Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, June 10
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has launched a border tourism initiative in the high-altitude Shipki-La region of Kinnaur district, close to the India-China border. Speaking at a public gathering, Chief Minister Sukhu said the new tourism push aims to promote sustainable economic development in remote border areas. The state government recently received clearance from the Ministry of Defence to open up border zones such as Shipki-La, Lepcha, Giu, and Rani Kanda to visitors.
The Chief Minister said he would seek Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support to designate Shipki-La as a new route for the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. The traditional path, which passes through neighbouring regions, has been disrupted in recent years. Sukhu also called for the reopening of the Shipki-La pass for trade and cultural exchange between India and China—activities that have remained suspended since 2020.
He further announced plans to request the creation of a Himachal Scout Battalion with dedicated recruitment for people living in border areas. The government will also push for the removal of inner-line permit restrictions to ease access for domestic tourists.
The state is working with the Indian Army and paramilitary forces, including the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), to improve infrastructure and tourist facilities. Discussions are underway to allow civilian use of ITBP helipads. A new road linking Kinnaur to Lahaul-Spiti—recently cleared by the National Wildlife Board—will reduce the distance between Shimla and Kaza by nearly 100 kilometres, offering improved regional connectivity.
During his visit, Sukhu inaugurated the Sarhad Van Udyan park and paid tribute at the Indira Gandhi Point in Shipki-La. Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi welcomed the announcement and called for enhanced transport services and tourism amenities in the area.
