WBCADC Unveils ‘Shaila Shikhar’ in Kalimpong, Pledging Upgraded Visitor Amenities and Support for Local Growers

KalimNews, Sept 21, 2026, Kalimpong: In a notable development aimed at expanding regional hospitality and fostering sustainable economic growth across the hill region, the West Bengal Comprehensive Area Development Corporation (WBCADC) officially unveiled its newly built Kalimpong Project Guest House, ‘Shaila Shikhar.’ Situated along Atisha Road near the historic Chitrabhanu landmark, the modern facility is poised to deliver quality accommodation for arriving tourists, government delegates, and institutional visitors, establishing a fresh anchor for Kalimpong's hospitality landscape.

The inaugural ceremony was led by Dilip Ghosh, Minister-in-Charge of the Panchayats & Rural Development and Agriculture Marketing Departments for the Government of West Bengal. The event was further distinguished by the presence of Chief Guest Santanu Pramanik, Minister of State for Panchayats & Rural Development as well as Food & Supplies. Local MLA Bharat Chhetri actively participated in the proceedings, lauding the WBCADC leadership and project teams for conceptualizing an initiative that directly blends tourism promotion with grass-roots development.

Beyond the brick-and-mortar unveiling, a vibrant centerpiece of the opening day was an extensive exhibition featuring local Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Women entrepreneurs from across the surrounding hills showcased indigenous agricultural produce, vibrant native floriculture, handmade home decor, and heritage culinary delicacies. Dignitaries toured the stalls, highlighting how grassroots collectives embody economic self-reliance and female empowerment under the Atmanirbhar framework by transforming traditional skills into stable household livelihoods.

Addressing members of the press during the event, Minister Dilip Ghosh reiterated the state government’s focus on agricultural revitalization as a cornerstone for upliftment throughout the hill districts. In particular, he emphasized forthcoming interventions to revive and incentivize orange cultivation across the Darjeeling and Kalimpong belts, acknowledging the fruit's historic significance to rural trade. Touching upon ongoing developmental projects, the Minister commented on the Jal Jeevan Mission, confirming that an administrative inquiry remains underway following complaints of irregularities in the scheme's regional execution.

Looking toward the broader horizon of Kalimpong’s swelling travel sector, Ghosh underscored the urgency of upgrading town-level civic and logistical support systems. He stressed that expanding urban parking capacity, identifying emerging scenic circuits outside congested zones, and integrating community-led micro-enterprises are vital to keeping tourism ecologically viable and economically rewarding. With the formal opening of ‘Shaila Shikhar,’ the hill town marks a coordinated step forward in linking civic infrastructure, agricultural resilience, and community entrepreneurship.