GANGTOK,: The scenic town of Yangang in South Sikkim is all set to host the highly anticipated International Youth Conclave for Tourism Development from April 12 to 14.
This dynamic event, focused on shaping the future of sustainable tourism, will feature Sanjiv Agarwal, founder & CEO of Fairfest Media, as the esteemed guest of honor. The conclave is proudly supported by the Government of Sikkim.
A prominent figure in India’s travel and tourism sector, Sanjiv Agarwal has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of travel trade shows, including the highly successful TTF (Travel Trade Fair) and OTM (Outbound Travel Mart). With years of experience advocating for experiential travel and highlighting offbeat destinations, Agarwal’s presence at the conclave underscores the event’s significance in reshaping tourism for a new generation of leaders, a press release informs.
“India is a young and vibrant nation, and the youth are our driving force. Traditional tourist destinations are no longer enough; today’s travelers seek unique, offbeat experiences. I’m thrilled to see States like Sikkim bringing emerging destinations like Yangang into the spotlight—it’s a positive and exciting development,” said Agarwal.
“The tourism industry is competitive, but with the right positioning, anyone can find their niche. Sikkim has been proactive in promoting tourism, and it’s clear that sustainable tourism is a priority. However, it’s also about creating high-value, sustainable destinations—much like Bhutan has done. It’s not just about attracting large numbers, but about attracting the right kind of tourists. If done correctly, there’s a massive potential for revenue growth. I’m pleased to see how the State is championing high-quality high-value responsible tourism,” he added.
The conclave, which coincides with Sikkim’s 50th year of Statehood, will gather youth leaders, tourism experts, and delegates from across India and the globe to explore how tourism can contribute to the region’s growth. Discussions will centre on sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and the role of youth in shaping the future of the industry, the release mentions.
Under the central theme, “Celebrating Sikkim’s 50 Years of Statehood,” the conclave will provide an in-depth look into the State’s tourism evolution, opportunities, and challenges. It will also spotlight emerging destinations like Yangang, positioning them for future growth through targeted tourism infrastructure projects supported by the Ministry of Tourism.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay reaffirmed the government’s vision for sustainable tourism, stating: “Tourism has always been a priority for our government. To ensure sustainable development for our youth and region, it will continue to play a central role in our future plans. This aligns with our vision of Sunaulo, Samriddha, and Samarth Sikkim.”
Reflecting on Sikkim’s tourism journey, he added: "This conclave provides a valuable opportunity to showcase the immense potential of destinations like Yangang while exploring sustainable solutions that will drive tourism-led growth. We are committed to positioning Sikkim as a global tourism hub, preserving its rich heritage, and ensuring that local communities benefit from these opportunities.”
Speaking on this, Raj Kumari Thapa, Deputy Speaker and MLA of Yangang said, “Yangang is emerging as a major destination, and this conclave is a step toward unlocking its full potential. With sustainable tourism at the heart of our efforts, we are committed to creating an ecosystem where local communities thrive alongside growing tourism opportunities.”
As a champion of experiential travel, Agarwal brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the conclave. His leadership in the tourism sector has helped many lesser-known destinations gain global recognition, and his focus on promoting offbeat locations aligns perfectly with Sikkim’s efforts to put emerging areas like Yangang on the map.
In addition to his keynote participation, Agarwal will engage in panel discussions and share insights on how sustainable tourism can foster economic growth while preserving the local culture and environment. The conclave will also feature various interactive sessions, heritage walks, and cultural exchange programs designed to offer delegates a hands-on experience of Sikkim’s tourism offerings, the release mentions.