Yakten Declared India’s First ‘Digital Nomad Village’ under Sikkim Government’s Remote Work Initiative

KalimNews | Gangtok | July 17, 2025 : In a groundbreaking step towards redefining rural development and digital connectivity, the Sikkim government on Monday officially declared Yakten, a remote village in Pakyong district, as India's first Digital Nomad Village. This milestone initiative falls under the state’s ambitious ‘Nomad Sikkim’ programme, aimed at transforming the serene Himalayan region into a year-round destination for remote professionals while simultaneously strengthening local livelihoods.

Nestled in the tranquil foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Yakten—known for its breathtaking natural beauty—has undergone significant infrastructural enhancements to make it a haven for digital nomads. The village now offers seamless Wi-Fi connectivity and uninterrupted electricity, making it ideal for those seeking a work-life balance in nature without compromising on digital requirements.

The initiative is the result of a joint collaboration between the Pakyong district administration and the NGO Sarvahitey. Speaking at the launch, Prem Prakash, CEO of Nomad Sikkim, highlighted the challenges posed by the terrain and the steps taken to mitigate them. “Given the hilly geography and vulnerability to landslides that frequently damage optical fiber lines, we have installed both primary and backup internet connections, powered by generators to ensure continuous connectivity,” he said, describing the project as a “game changer” that could serve as a model for other parts of the Northeast.

Pakyong District Collector Agawane Rohan Ramesh, who has overseen the village’s transformation, stated that Yakten now features high-speed Wi-Fi with reliable backup, eight work-friendly homestays, and an uninterrupted power supply system supported by inverters. “We have also tied up with local transport providers to make the village easily accessible to visiting professionals,” he added.

The Digital Nomad Village initiative not only aims to attract digital workers from across India and abroad but also to provide sustainable, round-the-year income to local homestay owners. Traditionally reliant on seasonal tourism, many homestay operators in the region struggle during the lean months, often taking loans to keep their businesses afloat. The project aligns with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang’s broader vision of ‘One Family, One Entrepreneur’, addressing income volatility through digital tourism and entrepreneurial opportunities.

During the launch programme, the Chief Minister’s concern over the lack of steady income for homestay operators was echoed by officials. “Remote workers will come and stay in peaceful surroundings if we ensure stable internet and electricity throughout the year,” said Collector Rohan Ramesh. He noted that in addition to digital infrastructure, a long-term water supply solution for the village is being planned under the Jal Jeevan Mission to further support sustainable habitation.

Gyan Bahadur Subba, president of the Yakten Village Tourism Cooperative Society, welcomed the initiative as a step toward resolving the longstanding struggle of rural service providers to survive during the off-season. “Alongside promoting this programme, the government must also address fundamental issues like drinking water and other basic services,” he remarked during a press briefing.

It was was officially inaugurated at Yakten Village by Pamin Lepcha, MLA of Gnathang-Machong constituency and Advisor for Women, Child, Senior Citizen, and Divyangjan Welfare Department. The inaugural ceremony was attended by District Collector Pakyong, Mr Rohan Agawane; ADC (HQ), Mr GL Meena; ADC (Dev), Mr Robin Pd. Sewa; OSD to MLA, Rhenock Constituency, Mr DB Chettri; OSD to MLA, Gnathang-Machong, Mr MB Gurung; Deputy Director, Tourism Department, Ms Sushma Pradhan; BDO Pakyong, Mr Sangay Tamang; Project Head for Digital Nomads and Founder of Sarvahitey NGO, Mr Prem Prakash; Mr Arpit Bansal, member Sarvahitey, officials from various departments, and representatives from several organisations.

Yakten, located about 32 km from the state capital Gangtok, stands as a shining example of how digital technology, local entrepreneurship, and responsible governance can converge to create inclusive, sustainable development in rural India. As the first of its kind in the country, the village now serves as a template for future digital hubs across the Himalayan and Northeastern regions.

With stable internet, clean energy, local participation, and government backing, the Nomad Sikkim initiative is not just enabling a new kind of work environment—it is also revitalising rural economies and preserving cultural landscapes, all while embracing the digital future.