Gangtok, 3 November: A total of 120 Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Scheduled Caste (SC) youths from Sikkim were flagged off today for the Dzongri trekking expedition under the Adventure Camp-cum-Trekking Programme 2026, organised by the Sports & Youth Affairs Department, Government of Sikkim, in collaboration with the Mountaineering and Adventure Institute of Sikkim (MAIS).
The flag-off ceremony was attended by Dr. R.B. Bishwakarma, Director, Sports & Youth Affairs Department; Kunzang Gyatso Bhutia, Everester and Nodal Officer of the department; and the Director of MAIS.
The 10-day programme will see participants undertake the trekking expedition in two batches, providing them with practical exposure to mountaineering, trekking, teamwork, leadership and discipline, while allowing them to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Both batches are scheduled to return by November 6, when the closing ceremony will also be held.
The initiative aims to promote adventure sports and outdoor activities, build confidence and leadership qualities among ST/SC youth, and encourage greater participation in adventure tourism and mountaineering.
The programme reflects the state government’s commitment to youth empowerment and the promotion of adventure sports and tourism in Sikkim.
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