Sikkim launches first-of-its-kind Advanced Rafting Guide Programme under INSPIRES

In a major push to strengthen adventure tourism, the Government of Sikkim on February 27, held the closing ceremony of the River Rafting Guide Course – Level III and IV (Advanced and Water-Based Search and Rescue), marking the graduation of the state’s first batch of certified rafting guides.

 

The training programme, conducted from February 13 to 27, was organised under the “Sikkim INSPIRES” initiative by the Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure & Eco-Tourism (IHCAE) under the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim. Technical and venue partners included NOC – Nanhla Outdoor Centre and IMB.

 

Around 20 participants completed the advanced-level course and will now serve as the first formally certified river rafting guides in the state.

 

Speaking at the event, Rohini Pradhan, Special Secretary and Nodal Officer of Sikkim INSPIRES, said the programme aligns closely with the state’s economic vision for women and youth.

 

“Sikkim is already well known for adventure tourism. However, structured training was necessary to streamline the sector and create better livelihood opportunities for our youth and women,” she said.

 

She added that the initiative directly addresses existing demand in the tourism sector, particularly for activities such as river rafting on the Teesta River and the Rangit River, two of the state’s major tourism assets.

 

Pradhan noted that Sikkim INSPIRES is a targeted economic programme launched under the guidance of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to create sustainable, non-farm employment opportunities.

 

“The main objective is to generate better economic prospects for women and youth in sectors such as tour guiding, trekking, cultural interpretation and adventure activities. We provide structured training and ensure placement opportunities as well,” she said, adding that such programmes would reduce migration by enabling young people to build livelihoods within their local communities.

 

Kaji Sherpa, Joint Director (Adventure), Sikkim Tourism, said the department had surveyed rafting potential across the state for two years in collaboration with the World Bank and Sikkim INSPIRES before launching the course.

 

“River rafting has immense potential. While rafting activities are active on the Teesta, local participation has been low. That is why this training was essential. Today, our first batch of about 20 participants is passing out,” he said.

 

Sherpa said international experts were engaged to grade rafting routes across Sikkim to ensure safety and proper categorisation for beginners and advanced clients. A comprehensive grading map is expected to be prepared within a month to strengthen marketing strategies.

 

“This is the first time we are issuing formal certification. Earlier, guides operated based on experience but were not certified. From now on, they will be registered under the Department of Tourism through IHCAE and can conduct rafting activities anywhere in Sikkim or India,” he added.

 

Chairman of the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Sonam Norgay Lachungpa, described the programme as a landmark initiative.

 

“As far as rafting is concerned, this is the first of its kind. It will help Sikkim make a strong mark on the adventure tourism map of India,” he said.

 

He added that the state government is also exploring other adventure activities such as paragliding, with feasibility studies and trial runs already conducted in various locations.

 

Highlighting the employment dimension, Lachungpa said the INSPIRES programme is designed to empower women and youth and promote self-reliance.

 

“Since it is not possible to provide government jobs to everyone, we are making every effort to create alternative economic opportunities. Adventure tourism is one such promising sector,” he said.

 

Officials said the initiative is expected to enhance safety standards, professionalise rafting operations and position Sikkim as a leading destination for adventure tourism in the country.