GANGTOK,: Governor Om Prakash Mathur has extended his heartfelt gratitude to
Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his visionary concept of “Battlefield Tourism”
under the “Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan” program. The initiative lists Doklam,
Nathu La and Cho La, the border areas in Eastern Sikkim which witnessed
military conflicts and standoffs between India and China.
The Indian
Army, in association with the Ministry of Tourism, launched Bharat Ranbhoomi
Darshan, which opened up 77 battleground spots, including those in Siachen,
Kargil and Galwan.
The
Governor also conveyed his warm congratulations to Union Defence minister
Rajnath Singh, the Indian Army, and the Government of India for their
commendable initiative in introducing battlefield tourism, a Raj Bhavan release
informs.
“The
inclusion of Doklam, Nathu La and Cho La has now been shortlisted for
battlefield tourism, which will not only boost Sikkim’s tourism potential but
also serve as a platform to instil a sense of nationalism and pride among the
youth of our country. Visitors to these sites will have the opportunity to
witness the historical significance of these areas and gain a deeper
appreciation for the sacrifices made by our armed forces. It also marks a
significant milestone in fostering patriotism while enhancing the state's
tourism potential,” the Governor stated.
‘Battlefield
tourism’ aims to foster a stronger connection between citizens and the armed
forces, nurturing a spirit of nationalism and a greater understanding of the
challenges faced by the Indian Army in protecting the nation’s sovereignty.
“By
visiting these sites, individuals, especially the younger generation, will be
inspired by the courage and dedication displayed by the soldiers who stood
steadfast in the defence of the country, thereby inculcating a sense of
patriotism among the youth,” Mathur added.
During the
launch of the ‘Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan’ program, Defence Minister Rajnath
Singh highlighted a remarkable 30 per cent rise in tourist arrivals in Ladakh,
Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh in the past four years, crediting this surge to
improved infrastructure and growing interest in border tourism, the release
adds.
Tourists
can add historical battleground sites of the Indian armed forces to their list
of travel destinations including those in Siachen, Kargil and Galwan.
