US small aircraft company offers Pakyong-Bagdogra air connectivity : Brewery in Sikkim discussed in proposals with investors

EOI, GANGTOK, JULY 31, 2024 :  Sikkim Minister of Commerce and Industries, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Tshering T. Bhutia on Tuesday met with investors from Delhi and Bangalore in Gangtok and discussed investment proposals, including one on establishing air connectivity from Pakyong to Bagdogra and Delhi. The other proposals included the setting up of a brewery in Sikkim and the installation of water ATMs across the state.

The Minister discussed with BLADE, a U.S.-based small aircraft operator, the possibility of operating flights from Pakyong to Bagdogra initially, with plans to expand to Delhi. The BLADE team conducted a survey of Pakyong airport and found it well-maintained and suitable for immediate flight operations. They will submit a detailed proposal within a week, it was informed.

Investors from Bangalore expressed interest in establishing a brewery in Sikkim to produce beer from barley, wheat, rice, and maize, with an investment of Rs 70 crore and the potential to generate 100 jobs per day. They also met with Advisor to the Excise Department Bedu Singh Panth and discussed the project.

The Water ATM project aims to install vending machines at multiple locations in Sikkim, providing purified water to locals and tourists at minimal prices. This initiative aims to reduce plastic use and promote a clean environment, with local entrepreneurs managing the Water ATMs.

The Minister is also pursuing other projects to boost investment in Sikkim, both from local and outside investors, to strengthen the industrial sector and create employment opportunities for the local youth.