GOVERNMENT OF SIKKIM

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM & CIVIL AVIATION

GANGTOK

ANNUAL REPORT
2013 -14

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 CONTENTS Page No.

1 Introduction and Overview 3

2 Tourism Department & its Functions 4
3 Development of Tourism Infrastructure 5
4 Information and Publicity 8
5 Rural Tourism / Homestay 20
6 Assets 20
7 Hospitality 21
8 Statistical Cell 22
9 Information Technology 23
10 Adventure Tourism 23
11 Permit 24
12 Land Records 25
13 Asian Development Bank 26
14 Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure & Eco—tourism , 27
Chemchey
15 Institute of Hotel Management , 30
16 Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation 32

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1. INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW

1.1 Tourism has now gained universal acceptance as a potent engine for inclusive socio-
economic development. It has become one of the important sectors for Sikkim and in a short period of
time the state has witnessed steady growth in this sector. The number of domestic as well as foreign
tourists visiting Sikkim is increasing every year, which indicates that more and more tourists of different
interest and ages are showing keen interests to visit Sikkim every year. The geographical biodiversity
and different species of flora and fauna, sublime and paranomic natural beauty, rich cultural heritage,
inherent hospitality of its people has contributed for the steady growth in the tourism sector during the
last few years. The state government has formulated different plans and policies for safeguarding and
preserving the natural beauty that is abundance in Sikkim. The programs of the government such as
ten minutes to earth, green mission, organic cultivation etc has contributed greatly to preserve the
fragile ecology of the State due to which Sikkim is one of the cleanest states in the country today.

1.2 It is a matter of great pride and opportunity to know that Sikkim has been named as best
region to visit in 2014 by a leading global travel guide Lonely Planet. Lonely Planet Best in Travel 2014
has a list of top ten destinations in different categories such as best countries to visit, best regions to
visit, best cities to visit and other guiding list for travel during 2014. The Lonely Planet has praised the
natural beauty, the mountains, monasteries and the sikkimese cuisines. It notes that organic farming is
the new mantra in Sikkim and is promoted in a big way.

1.3 The year 2013-14 witnessed a growth of 70.22% & 2.33 % in foreign and domestic
tourist respectively with respect to 2012-13. It is pertinent to mention here that the number of tourist
visiting Sikkim is less during winter and rainy season. To help Sikkim grow as 365 days tourist
destination different programs and activities are conducted periodically to attract more tourist during
the lean season. One such activity carried out by the Department is organization of Winter Festival
during December 2013. The impact of this festival was instantaneous, which was evident from the
number of tourist visited during that period. Besides, Ministry of Tourism, has launched a program
called 777 Days Incredible Indian Himalayas Campaign. India has not been able to sell Himalayas as
product to the world. The Himalayas spread in six different states of India and Sikkim is one of them.
Therefore, this campaign is expected to boost tourism in Sikkim in the future.

1.4 Development of quality tourism infrastructure at tourist destinations and circuit is important
for unhindered growth of tourism sector. The State Government has taken up many projects from
different funding agencies as well as from its own resources to meet the gap of rapid demand of
facilities . For equal distribution of resources and to maintain growth across different sections of
population variety of schemes and projects have been undertaken and are in the pipeline for the future.
As mentioned above, the project of the magnitude of over Rs. 500.00 Crores such as Sky Walk at
Bhaleydhunga to small projects such as Homestays are being implemented to benefit to different
sections of the population and tap all sources of tourism potential. The outcome of the Homestay
schemes is very effective since the rural masses are directly involved in implementation and operation
of such schemes. It is expected that once the Homestays are fully operational the economy of the rural
masses will improve and the unemployed people of the rural areas will get job to earn their livelihood.

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1.5 At present the tourist season is considered from April to June and from September to mid
November only. In order to promote Sikkim as 365 days destination it was necessary to explore unique
tourism products to attract tourists during the lean season. Niche tourism products like Adventure,
Wellness, Golf Meeting Incentives Conferences and Exhibitions, Eco-Tourism and film tourism which
have been identified by the Ministry of Tourism for development and promotion of tourism is feasible
for states like Sikkim due to its geographical condition and natural beauties.

1.6 Apart from development of infrastructure, the Tourism Department is imparting trainings to
different categories of people required for providing services to the tourism sector. The Department is
receiving funds from Ministry of Tourism as well as from the State Government for such activities.

2. 0 Tourism Department and its functions.

2.1 The Organisation

Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim is the nodal agency to formulate
policies and programs for the development and promotion of tourism in the state of Sikkim. The
Department is headed by the Secretary who is assisted by different levels of officers and staff. The
head Office of the Department was earlier at M.G.Marg, Gangtok which has now been shifted to
the new building constructed at Tadong. To facilitate the tourists coming to Sikkim offices are set
up at Siliguri, Kolkata and New Delhi outside the State. Besides Tourist Information Centers are
also located at Namchi, Pelling, Jorethang, Mangan , Rangpo , Lachen, Rabong , Damthang ,
Bagdogra , Darjeeling and New Jalpaiguri. The different sections such as Administration Section,
Engineering Section, Accounts Section, Information and Publicity Section, Rural Tourism &
Homestays, Assets, Hospitality, Statistical Cell, Information and Technology, Adventure Cell,
Permit Cell, Land Registration Cell have been established to look after works of their respective
sections. Besides Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation a Public Sector undertaking is also
under the charge of Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim. The Institute of
Hotel Management, Rumtek is also under the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department.

During the period under report promotions of the officers and staff have been granted and
the details are appended at Annexure-I. One Deputy Director Ms. Shova Lama posted at Tourism
Office, New Delhi and one Driver Mr. Jiwan Gajmer posted at Head Office has been awarded the
State Meritorious Award on the occasion of Republic Day 2014.

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3.0 Development of Tourism Infrastructure.

3.1 The number of tourists both domestic and foreigners visiting Sikkim are increasing every
year due to which there is growing pressure on the existing infrastructure. Therefore, augmentation
of quality tourism infrastructure is essential. With the financial assistance extended by Ministry of
Tourism Department, Government of India, a number of schemes have been implemented at
different Tourist Destination and Circuits spread across the state to meet the requirement on
annual basis. Besides, the assistance from Ministry of Tourism, the State Government also
provides funds for taking of infrastructure development at Tourist Destination and Circuits.

New Head Office Building of Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, Govt. of Sikkim.

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3.2 Namchi - Samdruptse Ropeway.

This is one of the spillover projects of 11th Plan and 80% of the project has been
completed physically till the end of financial year 2013-14.The total length of the Ropeway is
2.718 km and is divided into two sections i.e. section-I, running from Namchi PWD Dakbungalow to
Rock Garden and the section-II running from Rock Garden to Samdruptse where the world’s tallest
statue of Guru Padmasambhava exists. The section-2 of the ropeway has become operational
since January 2014. The revised cost of this project is ` 44.00 Crores and the both the sections of
the ropeway is expected to be completed by end of 2014.

Ropeway Cabin being manufactured by M/S. Gangloff, Switzerland

Ropeway Cabin transported from Switzerland

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 Trail run of Namchi Ropeway Section II ( Rock Garden to Samduptse )

3.3 List of Schemes sanctioned by Ministry of Tourism during 2013-14

During 2013-14, 14 projects have been identified by the Tourism & Civil Aviation
Department, Government of Sikkim for according approval and sanction by the Ministry of Tourism,
Government of India. All the 14 projects amounting to ……… has been considered and
accorded sanction by the Ministry and necessary action has already been initiated to implement
the same. The details of these projects are appended at Annexure – II.

3.4 List of Schemes Completed during 2013-14

During 2013-14, 13 projects funded by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India have

been completed .Similarly one project under TSP and seven projects taken up under Border Area
Development Program (BADP) have been completed.

3.5 Skywalk Project

The Skywalk Project at Bhaleydhunga has been conceived to showcase the eco- tourism
potential of the State. The theme of the project is “Explore, Admire and Preserve the Nature”.
The project is being implemented under funding from 13th Finance Commission and the site is
located at Bhaleydhunga at Mainam in South Sikkim. The Department has already acquired the
land required for this project and necessary clearances are being obtained. The project is divided
into three sections :

a. Development of Skywalk at Bhaleydhunga

b. Passenger Ropeway from Dhapper to Bhaleydhunga and

c. Creation of Support Facilities at Upper Dhapper, Lower Dhapper , Selemthang,

Gufadara and Yangyang in South Sikkim.

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3.6 New Projects submitted during 2013-14 and retained by Ministry of Tourism for
implementation during 2014-15.

a. Mega Circuit - Development of Mega Circuit linking Rangpo ( Entry) – Rorathang - Rhencok –
Rongoli- Phadamchen – Zoluk – Kubuk- Baba Mandir- Sherathang – Gangtok – Kabi – Phodong –
Labrang – Mangan – Tong – Chungthang- Lachen- Lachung – Gangtok ( exit )

b. Large Revenue Generating Projects – the project in principle has been accepted by the Ministry of
Tourism, Govt. of India. The preliminary survey etc. has been initiated by the Department for
implementation.

c. Circuit Development -

(i) Development of Tourist Circuit along Chungthang-Lachung-Yumthang in North Sikkim.

(ii) Development of Tourist Circuit along Chiyadara-Phalidara-Phongla-Mellidara-Yangyang in

South Sikkim.

(iii) Development of Tourist Circuit along Penlong-Rakdong-Tintek-Tumin-Khamdong-Samdong-

Sang-Ranka-Sichey-Ranipool-Pakyong-Rorathang in East Sikkim.

(iv) Development of Tourist Circuit along Mangley, Sripatam, Lingmoo, Lingee, Makha in South
Sikkim.

d. Destination Development

(i) Development of Tourist Infrastructure at Majhitar in south Sikkim.

(ii) Development of Tourist Destination at Lingdem Hotspring, Seven sisters falls & Rok Sok in
North Sikkim.

(iii) Development of Tourist Development at Mangley, South Sikkim.

(iv) Development of Tourist Destination at Pelling in West Sikkim.

4.0 Information & Publicity

4.1 Publicity and marketing is backbone of any business. Therefore, Information, Publicity and
Marketing play an important role to promote tourism and create social awareness through the print
and electronic media. The Tourism & Civil Aviation Department has a special Cell called
Information and Publicity Section to deal with this business. The various activities being carried out
by this Cell are as highlighted below:-

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 a. Designing and production of information materials which include brochures, posters, banners,
promotional CDs
b. Designing of advertisement materials for release in travel magazines, in-flight magazines and other
reputed newspapers
c. Advertisement through electronic media during major tourism events
d. Providing inputs for official website updates
e. Preparation of applications for National Tourism Awards which is conferred annually by Ministry of
Tourism, Government of India as well as other awards which are conferred by reputed travel
magazines
f. Preparation of write ups for National Tourism Award Handbooks
g. Organizing tourism related fairs, festivals and events both within and outside the State
h. Organizing Familiarization Tours (Fam Tour) for domestic and international tour operators and
travel writers
i. Coordinate with production houses for filming in Sikkim
j. Coordinate with tourism stakeholders for marketing and promotion of tourism

3.2 During the year 2013 – 14 following activities were undertaken:

A. Release of advertisements

1. Advertisement was released in TTJ Magazine which was distributed during ITB, Berlin 2014

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 Above - Cover page of the Travel Trade Journal – (March 2014 ITB Supplement) which was
released during ITB- Berlin 2014.

Below - Advertisement published on Sikkim Tourism – Travel Trade Journal March 2014 – ITB
Supplement.

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Below -Article published on Sikkim (Travel Trade Journal – March 2014 –ITB Supplement)

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 2. Advertisement through ABP News channel

Promotional advertisement was broadcast through national channel ABP News channel for publicity of
Sikkim Winter Carnival.

B. Production of Publicity Materials:

Promotional CD for distribution during International Tourism Mart, Tawang 2013.

C. Fairs & Festivals organized within the State:

 World Tourism Day 27 September, 2013

World Tourism Day with the theme ‘Tourism & Water” was celebrated on 27th September 2013.
Graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister as the Chief Guest, the program was marked by PowerPoint
presentations by various departments and organizations on the World Tourism Day theme and
other aspects of tourism in Sikkim. As previous years the program was witnessed by distribution of
Tourism Awards to various tourism stakeholders.

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  Cherry Tea Festival 15 – 17 November, 2013
The festival was organized to promote Sikkim (Temi) tea globally and to promote new destinations in and
around South District as well.

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  Sikkim Winter Carnival 22 – 24 December, 2013
With an aim to promote Sikkim as all season tourist destination, the event witnessed adventure
activities like paragliding, mountain biking, white water rafting ,rock climbing, half marathon, cultural
programmes, ethnic fashion show, exhibition and sale of local handicrafts, cuisine, floriculture
products, photo exhibitions and exhibition of butter sculpture.

Above- Promotional logo of the Sikkim Winter Carnival -2013.

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(Above) – Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim along with Hon’ble Chief Minister & Hon’ble Tourism Minister
during the inauguration of Sikkim Winter Carnival 2013 at MG Marg,Gangtok.

Above- Tourism & Civil Aviation Minister Shri Bhim Dhungel participating in Rock Climbing event
during Sikkim Winter Carnival 2014.

Above –Department officers with SAMA members and student participants at Rock Climbing venue
during Sikkim Winter Carnival -2014.

D. Some of the important tourism Events outside the State:

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1. South Asian Travel &Tourism Exposition, New Delhi

2. North East Festival, New Delhi

3. India International Tourism Mart, Mumbai 2014.

Above – Officers of the Department at India International Tourism Mart, Mumbai 2014

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4.3 International Tourism Mart, Arunachal Pradesh

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India organized International Tourism Mart at Tawang in Arunachal
Pradesh from 18-20 October 2013 for promotion of tourism in the North –East region. The Hon’ble Minister
for Tourism & Civil Aviation along with the officers of the Department attended the event. The Department
showcased the tourism products of the state through a PowerPoint presentation.

The Department also invited delegates comprising of 4 foreign National from the following countries-
Thailand Japan and United Kingdom for a familiarization tour of the State.

Above - Tourism & Civil Aviation Minister Shri Bhim Dhungel with the Chief Minister of Arunachal
Pradesh in Sikkim stall during ITM –Tawang.

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 Secretary Tourism & Civil Aviation Shri
C.Zangpo with the Secretary Ministry of
Tourism, Government of India, Shri Parvez
Dewan during ITM – Tawang -2014.

Above – Mrs. Leepandi Targain, Deputy Director, Tourism & Civil Aviation presenting the
PowerPoint presentation on Sikkim Tourism during ITM –Tawang 2014.

4.4 ITB Berlin:

ITB Berlin is one of the premier travel marts held annually. The Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India,
provides free space for all north east States for promotion of tourism. This year the State was represented
by officers of the Tourism Department and STDC.

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E. National Tourism Award in the category Best Rural Tourism Project was conferred to Sikkim by
Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

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5.0 Rural Tourism & Homestay

5.1 The concept of rural tourism and homestay tourism is prevalent all over the world since
many decades and the same has recently been introduced in the state of Sikkim by few local
groups and has shown tremendous result. The purpose of the rural tourism is to create job
opportunities for the rural masses. Sikkim being hilly terrain and surrounded by beautiful mountains
and peace loving people has great potential in rural tourism. The number of tourists preferring to
stay in the villages is on the rise. In view of the fact, the state government has sanctioned 718
Homestays during 2012-13 and 2013-14 . Out of which 278 Homestays have been taken up during
2013-14 under 13th Finance Commission. The basic concept of rural tourism is to let one or more
rooms in the existing rural houses to use as accommodation for tourists who will stay with them.

5.2 Capacity Building for Homestay beneficiaries

Under the programme of homestay tourism implemented under 13th Finance Commission
it is proposed to train one beneficiary of such homestay by orgainising Capacity Building Training,
Awareness Programme , Exposure Trip etc. The training programme has been conducted as
shown below :-

a. Capacity building training for Homestay beneficiaries.

Total 2012-13 2013 -14 To be completed

718 356 354 08

b. Exposure Trips for Homestay beneficiaries

Total 2013 -14 To be completed

718 579 139

6.0 Assets Section

6.1 To maintain the records of assets created by the department, a section by the name
Assets Section has been established. The role and function of this section is to maintain records of
the assets of the Department. The Assets are mainly Hotels, Cafeteria, Wayside Amenities,
Resting Shed, Yatri Niwas, Pilgrimage Hut, Trekkers Hut, Parking yard, Shopping Complex etc.
The department does not have the man power to run these properties on its own. Therefore, the
same is leased out to interested local parties through bidding as per the laid down norms. During
the year 2013-14 total rent collected by the department by leasing out this properties amounts to `.
35,65,909/- ( Rupees thirty five lakhs sixty five thousand nine hundred and nine ) only.

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7.0 Hospitality

7.1 The function of hospitality Section to look after the registration and renewal of registration
of Hotels, Travel Agency, Tourist Guide, Out Door Photographers , Restaurant and Homestay
under the Sikkim Registration of Tourist Trade Act 1998. The details of the revenue collected
through registration and renewal is as mentioned below:-

The total number of Registration during 2013-14.

Sl. No. East West North South Total

1 Hotel 5 3 1 7 16
2 Travel Agent 76 12 Nil 4 92
3 Restaurant Nil Nil Nil 6 06
4 Tourist 2 Nil Nil 22 24
Guide/Outdoor
photographer
5 Hotel registration - - - - 12
at project level
6 Noc to Law Deptt. - - - - 05

7 Home stay 26 - - - 26
(provisional)
Total 181

REVENUE 1st April, 2013 – 31st MARCH, 2014

MONTH AMOUNT
APRIL Rs. 53,800/-

MAY Rs. 30,200/-

JUNE Rs. 26,550/-

JULY Rs. 29,650/-

AUGUST Rs. 30,150/-

SEPTEMBER Rs. 48,600/-

OCTOBER Rs. 1,04,550/-

NOVEMBER Rs. 31,550/-

DECEMBER Rs. 15,000/-

JANUARY Rs. 21,500/-

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 FEBRUARY Rs. 29,000/-

MARCH Rs. 20,500/-

Details of Revenue Collection forwarded by TIC Rs. 11,500/-

Namchi (from renewal of registration )

Details of Revenue Collection forwarded by TIC Rs. 6000/-

Pelling (from renewal of registration )
Details of Revenue Collection forwarded by North Nil
District (from renewal of registration )
GRAND TOTAL Rs. 4, 58,550/- (Rupees four lakhs
fifty eight thousand five hundred
fifty) only.

8.0 Statistical Cell

8.1 The Statistical Cell of the department is responsible for collection, compilation and
dissemination of information on various aspects of inbound, outbound and domestic tourist in
Sikkim. The data collected by this cell includes the number of domestic and foreign tourist visiting
Sikkim every year. The statistics collected by this cell plays a vital role for formulation of policies
and programmes for development of tourism in the State. The data, thus collected by this cell has
also to be furnished to the Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India, time to time for formulation of policies
and programmes for the development of tourism at the national level. The Ministry of Tourism,
Govt. of India provides financial assistance to State Governments / UT administrations for
implementation of various Centre Sponsored Schemes related to tourism development based on
the statistics, survey and studies conducted by it. Therefore, datas collected by the Statistical Cell
is equally important for availing central assistance.

The tourist arrival trend over the last five financial year is as depicted as under:-

Year Domestic tourist Foreign tourist Total

2009-10 642525 18706 661231

2010-11 706275 20772 727047
2011-12 500482 26530 527012
2012-13 564777 23624 588401
2013-14 577991 40213 618204

From the data furnished above it is evident that the number of foreign tourist
visiting Sikkim has increased by more than 100% which is good sign as this will contribute
in the country’s foreign exchange earnings.

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9.0 Information and Technology

9.1 Information and Technology plays a vital role in day today functioning of every
organization. The Government of Sikkim is planning to introduce e-governance in the State for
effective and good governance. In order to comply with the government’s programs in this field the
department has initiated several steps to move in this direction. One such activity being carried out
by the department is establishment of Information and Technology Cell with the necessary man
power in place. To begin with, the department has developed a web portal of Sikkim tourism
catering to many aspects of tourism, such as advertisement of Hotels, Restaurants and Travel
Agents to facilitate the tourists visiting Sikkim. The information made available on the website helps
tourists intending to visit Sikkim, get all the necessary information about the places they would like
to visit. Besides, the department has started e-tendering of all the works / projects. In brief, all the
information’s about the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department would be made available on this
website in the near future. The department is also making an effort to issue permits for visiting
restricted area and Inner Line Permit on line through this web portal in the near future.

10.0 Adventure Cell

10.1 The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has taken initiatives of identifying,
diversifying, development and promoting niche products of tourism industry. This is done in order
to overcome the aspect of “seasonality” and to promote India as 365 days destination, attract
tourist with specific interest and to ensure repeat visits for the unit products in which India has
comparative advantage. A number of niche products have been identified by the Ministry. The
products such as adventure, wellness, golf, MICE, eco-tourism and film tourism can be
successfully implemented in Sikkim as a state has resource for such activities in abundance. The
Adventure Cell of the Department is actively engaged in exploring areas where these schemes can
be implemented.

Highlights of some of the major initiatives of the department in adventure sector is as

reflected below:-

1. Reece of soft trekking route from Ganesh Tok to Tashi View Point.
2. Awareness and Sensitization programs organized for tourism stakeholder under the
BADP Scheme.
3. Conducted adventure sports during the Sikkim Winter Carnival 2013.
4. Promotion of Paragliding & Mountain Biking.
5. Prepared draft notification on Adventure Sports Guidelines.
6. Streamlined Yak Joy rides at Tsomgo Lake area.
7. Introduction & Promotion of Rock Climbing and Traversing at Bakthang Falls.
8. Feasibility study of adventure sports in some of the Village tourism projects
undertaken.

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 9. Actively participated in rescue operations during road accidents in North Sikkim and
Nathula route.
10. Issue of Trekking and mountaineering expedition permit.

11.0 Permit Cell

11.1 Sikkim being a border state with Tibet in the North, Nepal in the West and Bhutan in the
East, has certain regulations for the tourist visiting Sikkim. There are number of places of tourist
interest which are restricted as per the regulations and the tourists intending to visit these places
have to take prior permit from the State Government. The Tourism & Civil Aviation Department to
cater to such needs has special cell called Permit Cell from which the tourist can avail necessary
permits through registered Travel Agents. Since, many of these restricted areas falls in remote and
scarcely populated areas , the safety of the tourist is important and this cell besides issue of permit
also actively engaged in awareness driving campaign both for tour operators as well as the tourist
for safety and cleanliness of the area.

The permits to visit these restricted areas are issued on payment basis, due to which
certain revenue is also generated through this cell. The Travel Agents are classified according to
their capacity and the permits are allowed according to their classification for number of tourists per
day. The details and the revenue generated by this cell during 2013-14 is as reflected below:-

Grade (A) = 7 permit per day for 24 travel agents

Grade (B) = 2 permit per day for 12 travel agents

Grade (C) =3 permit per day for 17 travel agents

Grade (D) = 48 permit per day for 472 travel agents

Revenue generated from Nathula = Rs. 1, 03, 68,000

No of vehicle that plied to Nathula = 9940 nos

No of tourists who visited Nathula = 51840 nos

Nominal fee of Rs 50/- per person charged for issuing permit for Yumthang &
Tsomgo to foreigners through the SBS under the Tourism Head 1452 Tourism 800/ others has
been approved and notified.

Revenue generated from Tsomgo (Foreigners) : Rs. 1, 13, 250/-

Revenue generated from North Sikkim (Foreign) : Rs. 29,650/-

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 REVENUE COLLECTED AND DEPOSITED BY PERMIT CELL FOR NATHULA

W.e.f APRIL 2013 to MARCH 2014

Sl Month total revenue Total Nathula Road

no collected & no.of day blocke
deposited permit d
issued
1. APRIL 4,12,800/- 5 DAYS 10 DAYS 15
DAYS
2. MAY 16,19,000/- 17DAYS 10 DAYS 15
DAYS
3. JUNE 16,16,400/- 17DAYS 10 DAYS 15
DAYS
4. JULY 2,40,000/- 20DAYS 10 DAYS 15
DAYS
5. AUGUST 1,44,000/- 19DAYS 10 DAYS 15
DAYS
6. SEPTEMBER 5,88,700/- 20DAYS 10 DAYS 15
DAYS
7. OCTOBER 16,64,000/- 20DAYS 10 DAYS 15
DAYS
8. NOVEMBER 11,26,800/- 18DAYS 10 DAYS 15
DAYS
9. DECEMBER 7,69,200/- 14DAYS 10 DAYS 15
DAYS
10. JANUARY 7,14,600 21DAYS 10 DAYS 15
DAYS
11. FEBRUARY 72,400 13DAYS 10 DAYS 15
DAYS
12 MARCH 14,00,200/- 18DAYS 10 DAYS 15
DAYS
TOTAL 1,03,68,100/-

12.0 Land Registration Section.

12.1 Sikkim being a hilly and rugged terrain land for infrastructure development is limited. For
the development of tourist circuits and destinations the Department has acquired land from general
public as well as from the government i.e. forest land. The details of the land acquired by the
department are maintained by Land Registration Section.

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13.0 Asian Development Bank Funded Projects.

13.1 The Tourism and Civil Aviation has undertaken 16 numbers of projects under Asian
Development Bank funding. It is pertinent to mention here that ADB had selected South Asian
countries such as Nepal, India, Bhutan, Srilanka and Bangladesh for undertaking various
development projects from the ADB funding under South Asia Sub-regional Corporation
Programme. (SASEC). Sikkim being the biodiversity hot spot and potential place environmentally
responsible tourism sector, the strategic development plan for Sikkim is based on the principle of
conservation of environmentally sensitive and culturally sustainable tourism product to contribute to
poverty elimination and socio economic upliftment of the large cross section of the people. Further,
development of Buddhist Circuits and eco – tourism in harmony with nature and culture of Sikkim
are also the primary themes envisaged in the tourism development strategy of Sikkim. The total
fund earmark for ADB project is to the tune of $ 28 million ( ` 134.04 cr) as per pre loan negotiated
rate. The pattern of funding would be 70:30 which means the state share comes to USD 8 million
( ` 38.98 Cr.) as per the pre loan negotiated rate.

The various projects and the present status of these projects are as given below :-

SL NAME OF THE SUB PROJECT TOTAL STATUS

NO COST
I Strengthening & upgrading Ranka Sajong 149.60 Work under progress
rd in e Sikkim(9km)

2 Widening & strengthening of rd sections 149.55 Work under progress

in W Sikkim

3 Strengthening & upgrading rd from 57.92 Work under progress

Damthang to IHCAE at Chemchey in S
Sikkim

4 Infrastructural dev of IHCAE at 159.26 Notice to proceed has been issued to

Chemchey S Sikkim. contractors
5 Provision of basic sevices in base camp 21.73 Financial bid evaluation report
at Yuksom in W Sikkim submitted
Period of completion 24 months

6 Procurement of equipments & trg aids
for IHCAE at Chemchey in s Sikkim
7 Tourism marketting & promotion plan
8 Dev of village tourism in Raj Mindu
Damthang & Uttaray
112.65 Technical bid evaluation report (tber)
under preparation
107.73 Proposal submitted to ADB for or
concurrence
29.23 Draft detailed engineering design,
project preparation completed and
draft DPR submitted for approval
Likely date of completion Dec, 2015

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 9 Imprv.works in Guru Padma sambhawa - Project dropped as approved by SLSC
statue complex at Samdruptse in S
Sikkim
10 Impv & upgradation of env & - Project dropped as approved by SLSC
infrastructural dev of Rumtek monastery
complex & Shanti view point in E Sikkim
11 Env. Upgradation of khecheopari lake - Project dropped as approved by SLSC
precinct at W Sikkim
12 Impv of Singalila trekking trail & - Project dropped as approved by
provision of basic amenities in w sikkim SLSC
13 Const. Of car parking for Rumtek - Project dropped as approved by SLSC
monastery in East Sikkim
14 Project management design & 108.54 In progress
supervision consultants Period of completion till 16th Aug 2014
15 Consultants for operationalization 6.44 In progress
planning & curriculum design
16 Consultants for capacity dev & fostering 9.63 In progress
community participation

14.0 Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure and Ecotourism , Chemchey.

2nd Basic Mountaineering Course “Trainees” - Torifulay Base Camp -14,200 ( West Sikkim)

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 IHCAE Institute campus, Chemchey, South Sikkim

14.1 Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure & Ecotourism, Chemchey

Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure & Ecotourism (IHCAE) Institute is initiated in the
year 2009 by the State Government for introducing various activities relating to adventure tourism
and mountaineering activities. The institute is one of its kinds in the entire north eastern region and
is situated at Chemchey Village, South Sikkim at an altitude of 6582 ft covering an area of 21.2
acre.

14.2. IHCAE –Adventure tourism curriculum

 Trekking a) Low Altitude b) High Altitude 7 to 12 days

 Rock climbing
 Obstacle course
 Adventure course for school children 7 days /14 days
 Trekking guide course 15 days
 Survival/ disaster preparedness course
 Basic mountaineering course 28 days
 Skiing course 14 days
 Advance mountaineering course 30 days
 Mountaineering expedition 30 to 45 days

28
14.3 Adventure Course conducted by IHCAE in 2013 -2014

i) Adventure Courses - 03 batches

ii) Search & Rescue training - 02 batches

18th Adventure Course

29 students from Mt Zion Kid Zee School Tadong participated in a 6 day special winter adventure camp
from 2nd Dec. to 7th December 2013. Besides regular adventure activities like endurance test, natural rock
wall climbing, special emphasis is laid down to conceptualize the ideas of “Disaster preparedness” from this
year onward.

1. How to carry wounded persons: knee injured person / chest injured /

2. How to exit on crawl position from the smoke filled room incase of fire
3. Improvised stretcher making method: Sack stretcher / Double jacket stretcher /
rope stretcher / casualty carry method with help of rope coil
4. River crossing with help of rope: Commando bridge method / traversing

19th Adventure Course

50 students from 8 Government schools of class VIII to XII from South and East District participated in 19 th
adventure course of 7 days on a 50:50 cost sharing module at IHCAE Chemchey from 12 th Dec. to 18th
December, 2013.

20th Adventure Course

29 students from 6 Government schools of class VIII and above from South and East District participated
in 20th adventure course of 7 days on a 50:50 cost sharing module at IHCAE Chemchey from 20 th
December to 26th Dec. 2013.

14.4 Search & Rescue Course training.

State search & rescue team under IHCAE technical guidance conducted two short crash courses of 4
days each at Govt. college, Tadong and Gangtok to train the State QRT team (quick response team)
personal and familiarize the rescue equipment and rescue technique in event of natural disaster – earth
quake / land slide , fire etc

14.5 IHCAE Achievement 2013-2014

1. Miss Santi Rai , Instructor IHCAE participated in 1st All India women’s cycle under the “Go Green
Expedition” in South India from Kuch/Gujurat to Kochi/ Kerala, covering the distance of 2500 km in
one Month.

2. Miss Manita Pradhan took part in Mountaineering Expedition in Garwal Himalaya in May-June
2013 organised by IMF New Delhi.
29
3. Mr. Kazi Sherpa Dy. Leader 1st North –East States Mt Everest team successfully scaled highest
peak on the World “Mt Everest” on 18th May,2013 and becomes 1st State “DOUBLE Mt
Everester”. Team was flagged off by HE President of INDIA on 20 th March , 2013.

4. Mr. Anand Gurung , Instructor IHCAE became the “youngest Sikkim State Everester” on 17th May,
2013. He scaled the peak from South –East Ridge route Nepal.

5. Mr. K Sherpa (AD IHCAE) is detailed as Nodal Officer for ‘Search & Rescue team’ under DDMA
East district. Search & Rescue team conducted Mock Drill on 21/2/4 & 10/03/14 at Gangtok bazaar
area to sensitize the general public of Gangtok on Search & Rescue operation method and for team
coordination with various agencies, forces involve for rescue work .

14.6 IHCAE Expenditure & Revenue

IHCAE maintains two accounts.

i) Grants – in –Aid Account : SBI Branch , Namchi

Balance cash in Bank - : ` 37,39,265/- ( as on 31st March ,2014)
(Thirty seven lakh thirty nine thousand two hundred sixty five
rupee)

ii) Course Account : SBI Branch, Namchi

Balance cash in Bank - : ` 3,82, 925/- (as on 31st March 2014)
(Three lakhs eighty two thousand nine hundred twenty five
rupees)

15.0 Institute of Hotel Management

15.1 Institute of Hotel Management was instituted in the year 1990 with the aim to put in place a
system of training and professional education with necessary infrastructure support, capable of
generating man power to meet the needs of the tourism and hospitality industry both quantitatively
and qualitatively. This institute has affiliation of National Council for Hotel Management, Catering
Technology and Nutrition, Nodia under the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Till date the
Institute has produced more than 2000 professionals for the hospitality industry and they are well
placed in reputed Hotels and Resorts in the country and abroad.

The Institute of Hotel Management, is located at Sajong , Rumtek, East Sikkim in a area
measuring 1.6 hectares. The Institute imparts Diploma and Degree Courses. Besides its regular
curriculum the Institute also conducts short course trainings programmes under the Capacity
Building Porgramme of the State Government from time to time.

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15.2 Courses Offered

At present the Institute is offering

 3 years – B.Sc in Hotel & Hospitality Administration

 1 ½ years Trade Diploma Courses in Food & Beverage
 Service, Food Production, Front Office & Housekeeping.
 1 ½ Year Craftsmanship Course in Food Production & Food &
 Beverage Service
 In service course
 Capacity building programme on Hunnar se Rojgar
 Village Tourism

15.3 Enrollment of Student in 2013-2014

(Degree in Hotel & Hospitality Administration)

B.Sc in H & HA 1st year 58 Nos.

B.Sc in H & HA 2nd year 74 Nos.

B.Sc in H & HA 3rd year 41 Nos.

173 Nos

15.4 Achievements

During the last academic and financial year, the Institute has enrolled 106 students in
1st
B.Sc. Year along with 20 quota seats of Sikkim, 40 students in Diploma in Food Production. 208
nos. of students has enrolled during the year 2013-14 for all courses.

The academic performance for the year 2013-14 has proved to be excellent and pass
percentage was over 98% in Trade Diploma and over 100 % in degree courses.

During the year 2013-14 the Institute has conducted capacity building programme for
unemployed youth of Sikkim for 320 candidates for Food Production. This programme was
sponsored by Department of Tourism, Govt. of Sikkim. Institute has also conducted Hunar Se
Rojgar Programme sponsored by Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India for 120 unemployed youths of
Sikkim.

Since 2006 onwards the overall academic performance of the Institute of Hotel
Management undergoing 3 years Degree in Hospitality Service and Hotel Administration (H&HA),
Diploma, Craftsman’s ship courses has outstanding results and top ranking till today with 100% job
placement to all our final year students. Most of the students have been absorbed as management
trainees, operational trainees in all reputed five star deluxe hotels in India and abroad. Some have
joined the Airlines, Railways, Cruiselines, Reputed Banks, Call Centers, Human Resource
Development Industry, Hospitality and Tourism Industry.
31
 To support the plan initiated by the State Government to make the educated manpower
youths throughout the state self reliant, IHM Gangtok has provided capacity building training in
Food Production, Food & Beverage Service & House Keepings to more than 1200 students from
different rural areas of Sikkim till today.

Installation of solar power station sponsored by Govt. of India Scheme through SREDA,
Govt. of Sikkim is a great achievement and the Institute is getting un-interrupted light and saving
electricity bill.

Placement

We had 100% placement during the last academic year i.e. 2013-14 for all final year
students of B.Sc degree in H & HA, Diploma & Craftsmanship courses. Most of the students have
been placed at New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Banaglore and other metro cities.

16.0 Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation

16.1 HELICOPTER SERVICE IN SIKKIM

The helicopter service in Sikkim is operated by Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation,

under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. The helicopter service primarily caters to
the tourists. During landsides in Sikkim and agitations in the neighboring state, the helicopter
service participates in the rescue, relief and emergency operations. Government of India, provides
75% subsidy, on the cost of operation with State sharing 25% of the cost. The helicopter Service is
outsourced from M/s Pawan Hans Helicopter Limited, a Government of India undertaking.

The details of Helicopter

Make/Model - Bell 407

Carrying Capacity -5 passenger + 2 pilots

Engine make - Single engine

The helicopter service has regular schedule flights from Gangtok - Bagdogra -Gangtok.

At present the Heliservice offers the following:

1. Joy Ride- 15 minutes

2. Mountain Flights on demand

3. West Sikkim Country side flight on demand

4. Scheduled flight - Gangtok - Bagdogra - Gangtok

32
 5. Medical Flight on demand

6. Tsorngo Arial View on demand

7. Char Dham Arial View, Namchi, South Sikkim on demand.

Revenue generated: Rs.177.30 Lakhs

Expenditure: Rs.190.14 Lakhs

Payable to PHHL: Rs.1098.89 Lakhs *

* [MHA and State share not included}

During the financial year 2012-13, losses of Heliservice were reduced from Rs.50.69
Lakhs to Rs. 32.58 Lakhs per annum.

16.2 SIKKIM HOUSE, MIDDLETON STREET. KOLKATA

Revenue generated from Sikkim House, Middleton Kolkata is ploughed back for
maintenance, salary and wages of the staff. Sikkim House, Kolkata was renovated and given a
face lift providing better services to the guests. Sikkim house was made profitable for the first time
with Rs 8.75 Lakhs as profit for the financial year 2013-14.

Revenue generated: Rs.48.53 Lakhs

Expenditure: Rs. 34.46 Lakhs

Profit: Rs.8.75 Lakhs.

16.3 NEW SIKKIM HOUSE, SALT LAKE

New Sikkim House at Salt Lake is catering mainly to the referred medical cases by the
Government of Sikkim. The performance of the unit for the year 2013-14 is as below:

Revenue generated: Rs.43.45 Lakhs

Expenditure: Rs.31.52 Lakhs

Profit: Rs.11.92 Lakhs

16.4 TRAVEL DIVISION:

Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation started luxury transport and LTC package and
marketing of Heli tourism, Sikkim House through Travel Division

Revenue generated: Rs.20.08 Lakhs

Expenditure: Rs.29.13 Lakhs

33
 Glimpse of Adventure training conducted by IHCAE

Learning Basic Technique of Rock Top Belay Climbing on 60 ft IHCAE Primary Rock
Climbing

Traversing ‘A’ frame tent pitching class at Tendong Hill (8600 ft)

34
 TENT PICHING TECHNIQUES

2 men dome tent pitching at Tendong Hill tents for night camping at Jhorpokhree

Adventure Course activities

Camping at Baleydunga Self Cooking Competition during trek

35
 Demonstration of Portable Altitude Chamber use

IHCAE - 14 stages Obstacle Training Field

Spider web Crossing Burma Bridge

36
 “01st Skiing Course in North Sikkim – 2007”

Girls trainees taking part in Cock fighting game

1st Adventure Course batch students taking Girls trainees’ group “Tug of War” competition
part in 3 km Cross country competition

37
 “Yoga Class”

Adventure course trainees performing morning

Jungle Survival training

School Children crossing Obstacle

38
 ANNEXURE -I

ACHIEVEMENTS 2013-14

1. Promotion of Group D Employees to Group C.

i. Ms. Kunti Sharma Peon to LDC
ii Shri Passang Sherpa Chowkidar to LDC
ii. Shri Nadu Lepcha Peon to LDC
iii. Ms. Tshering Doma Peon to LDC

2. State Meritorious Award on the occasion of Republic Day 2013-14:

i. Ms. Shova Lama, Deputy Director, Tourism Office, New Delhi
ii. Shri Jiwan Gazmer, Driver, Head Office

3. Appointment on Compassionate Ground:

i. Ms. Upashna Mishra, LDC
ii. Ms. Renuka Khatiwada, Peon

4. Promotion of 3 Sr. Information Assistants to Tourist Officers:

i. Shri Majoj Kr. Chettri
ii. Shri Prashant Pakhrin
iii. Shri Dewan Gurung

5. Inauguration of newly constructed Office Building (Paryatan Bhawan) at Metro

Point Tadong by the Hon’ble Chief Minister on 26th December, 2013.

6. Best Tourist Police Award on World Tourism Day-2013.

i. Ms. Kanchana Sharma
ii. Ms. Dil Kumari Subba

39
 ANNEXURE –II
LIST OF SCHEMES SANCTIONED DURING 2013-14

TOTAL
SL
PROJECT NAME SANCTION
NO
(Rs. in lakh)

Development of Buddhist Circuit from Rabdentse

1 Geyzing connecting Ranidhunga and Phodong to 800.00
Lachen in North Sikkim

Providing & Display of Superlative Signages and

2 800.00
Hoardings

Development of Mega Tourist Infrastructure at

3 445.49
Buranilkhantha at Legship in West Sikkim

Development of Mega Tourist Circuit linking Gangtok

4 (entry) –Topakhani (SIngtam) – Tarku-Ravangla- 500.00
Tashiding-Khecheopari-Rimbi-Darap-Melli (exit)

Development of Tourist Circuit along Simik-West

5 800.00
Pandam-Rimbi in East Sikkim

Development of Tourist Circuit along Phodong Labrang

6 800.00
& Rongong in North Sikkim.

Development of Tourist Circuit along Sharchok Phebo,

7 800.00
Sangmo, Deythang Pokhari Zarrong in South Sikkim.

Development of Tourist Infrastructure at Banjhakri

8 500.00
Dhunga at Maneybong in West Sikkim.

Development of Pilgrimage Heritage Centre at

9 Thingchen Lake – Laingzah – Dzongu and Tholung in 500.00
North Sikkim.

Development of Inrastructure at Diu – Satyapani

10 500.00
Pokhari under Poklok Kamrang in South Sikkim.

Development of Tourist Infrastructure at Luing

11 500.00
Changrang in East Sikkim.

Development of Convention Centre at Gangtok, East

12 500.00
Sikkim,.

40
 13 Sound & Light Show project at Gangtok, Sikkim. 500.00

Development of Information Technology proposal for

14 50.00
promotion of Tourism Facilities in Sikkim.

2.

3. 3. DETAILS OF SCHEMES COMPLETED DURING THE FINANCIAL YEAR

2013-14:-
4. A. Completed project Funding by Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India.

Sl. Total
No Name of Schemes Location Sanction

(in lakhs)

1 Tourist Infrastructure at Jorethang in South

Majhitar 327.95
Sikkim(Majhitar)

2 Dev. of Car Park and Meeting Hall at Samduptse,

336.77
Samduptse in South Sikkim Namchi

3 Village Tourism at Maniram Bhanjyang Manira 58.24

(Namcvhi Singithang) Bhanjyang

4 Construction of Village Tourism at Chakhung Chankhung 15.87

5 Construction of Cafeteria at buriakhop, West

Buriakhop 37.06
Sikkim

6 Construction of Protective work at Singdhap

Singdhap 26.78
lake enroute Barsey, West Sikkim

7 Construction of Ethenic Huts (two nos) at

Singdhap 42.62
Singdhap

8 Const. of Pony trail and other Tourist

Infrastructure at Tashi View Point, Ganesh Tok East Sikkim 431.00
& Hanuman Tok in East Sikkim.

9 Development of Gangtok as Major Tourist

East Sikkim 2390.70
Destination.(following component completed)

10 Tourist Amenity at 5th. Mile, Tadong (Vertical

extension of existing cafeteria)

41
 11 Wayside Amenity at Gnathang in East Sikkim. Gnathang 65.00

12 Tourism and Cultural Heritage Centre at Phadamche

225.00
Phadamchen in East Sikkim. n

13 Tourist trekking trail from Gadi to Jhandidara via Pachak and

73.97
Dickling in East Sikkim Dickling

B. Completed project Funding under TSP.

Sl Total
No Name of Schemes Location Sanction
(in lakhs)
1 Namsing
Beautification of Namsing Water fall near B2
Water falls,
17.99
in North Sikkim near B2,
North sikkim
4. PROJECTS SANCTIONED FROM OTHER MINISTRIES OF THE GOVERNMENT
OF INDIA.
I. Project Sanctioned under Border Area Development Programme
(BADP)

Most of the infrastructures undertaken by the Sikkim Tourism under BADP include
tourism support facilities to channelize the flow of tourists at the boarder blocks
when substantial tourism potential exists. The schemes approved under BADP in
2013 – 14 are as under :-

SANCTIONED
SL
NAME OF SCHEMES AMOUNT
NO
(Rs. in lakh) STATUS

Construction of Washroom, Cafeteria and

1 Parking Yard at 14th Mile JN road in East 100.00 In progress
Sikkim.

Construction of Cafeteria approach road,

2 car parking, public toilet etc at Zipdakong 212.68 in progress
on the way to Gurudongmar, North Sikkim.

Trekking trail from Kalep to Deuthang

3 104.8 in progress
including way side amenities

42
 Construction of Cafeteria and car parking
4 at Shacham village under Lachen block, 93.97 in progress
North Sikkim.

Development of Trekking trail from Akar to

5 80.00 in progress
Thawala Lachen in North Sikkim.

Construction of trek route from Thangu

6 Phaka to thangu Book under Lachen in 40.00 in progress
North Sikkim.

Construction of Trekking Route from Kalep

7 67.5 in progress
to Phaka under Lachen, North Sikkim.

I. PROJECTS SANCTIONED FROM THIRTEENTH FINANCE COMMISSION,

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
A. Rural Tourism Project:

(I) CONSTRUCTION OF HOMESTAYS

Sl District Number of Physical Progress Remarks

No Homestays
Completed On To be
going completed by
progress Feb-2014
1 North 100 nil 40% 100 Work under progress
2 East 188 4 45% 184 Work under progress
3 South 220 2 45% 218 Work under progress
4 West 220 12 55% 208 Work under progress
728 18 45% 710

(II) CONSTRUCTION RURAL FACILITATION CENTRE (RTFC)

Sl District Number of Physical Progress Remarks

No RTFC
Completed On To be
going completed by
progress Feb-2014
1 North 5 nil 5% 5 Work under progress
2 East 5 nil 20% 5 Work under progress
3 South 5 nil 15% 5 Work under progress
4 West 5 nil 10% 5 Work under progress
20 nil 12.5% 20

43