The Ministry of Defence has approved the initiation of tourism activities in several sensitive border areas of Himachal Pradesh, including Lepcha, Shipki-La, Giu, and Rani Kanda, in response to a request from the state government. This decision is anticipated to significantly boost tourism while benefiting local communities, all while ensuring adherence to necessary national security protocols.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is set to officially inaugurate border tourism at Shipki-La in Kinnaur district on June 10. On that day, he will also launch the Sadbhawana Cycle Rally, aimed at promoting these newly accessible destinations. Tourists will be required to present Aadhaar identification for verification before entering these areas.
“These initiatives will go a long way in promoting tourism in the bordering areas, thereby benefitting the local people and strengthening their economy,” stated CM Sukhu. He also revealed intentions to pursue the establishment of an airport at Rangreek in the Spiti valley, which is expected to improve connectivity and attract more visitors to the region.
The decision to allow tourism in these areas followed a high-level meeting held on April 19 with senior Army officials, emphasizing the need to balance tourism development with security considerations. During a follow-up review meeting on May 20, CM Sukhu met with officers from the Indian Army and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to discuss the progress of ongoing development projects in border regions.
Sukhu directed officials from the Public Works Department (PWD) and the BRO to expedite the implementation of infrastructure projects that would benefit both local residents and defence personnel. Among these initiatives, he specifically highlighted the urgency of the Nithalthach–Harshil road project, which serves as a strategic corridor linking Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
Further, the Chief Minister reviewed advancements on the Sansari–Killar–Thirot–Tandi road project, which has seen 35 percent completion. He urged the BRO to accelerate the remaining construction efforts to ensure the route is operational as soon as possible.
Emphasizing local participation in the national defence strategy, Sukhu announced plans to advocate for a Himachal Scouts Battalion during an upcoming visit to Delhi. This battalion would be composed of local youth familiar with the regional terrain, thereby enhancing border defence capabilities.
Moreover, Sukhu encouraged Army officials to support the state’s initiative for natural farming by procuring locally grown agricultural products, including barley, wheat, maize, and milk, through the Himachal Pradesh Marketing Board. This initiative is geared towards providing minimum support prices for naturally grown produce, aiming to strengthen the rural economy.
In addition to these projects, Lieutenant General G.D. Mishra, General Officer Commanding of the Uttar Bharat Area, informed the Chief Minister about plans for an apple processing plant and a medical camp focused on cataract surgeries for residents in remote border areas, scheduled for June. These measures reflect a commitment to not only bolster tourism but also enhance the quality of life for those living in border communities.
