SHIMLA, May 21: The Union Ministry of Defence has approved the Himachal Pradesh government’s proposal to allow tourism in border villages of Lepcha, Shipki La, Giu, and Rani Kanda, which lie along the Indo-China border. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu will inaugurate the initiative at Shipki La in Kinnaur district on June 10, 2025, where he will also flag off a Sadbhawana Cycle Rally to mark the occasion.
The decision follows a meeting held on April 19 between the state and senior Army officials. Tourists will now be permitted to visit these sensitive areas upon showing valid Aadhaar identification to the authorities.
“This step will not only boost tourism but also bring developmental focus to our remote border villages,” said Sukhu, while presiding over a high-level review meeting with Army and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) officials.
The Chief Minister directed BRO and Public Works Department (PWD) officials to fast-track ongoing border development projects, ensuring benefits reach both the armed forces and residents. He called for greater coordination between agencies for timely execution.
He also announced plans to take up the formation of a Himachal Scouts battalion with the Centre during his forthcoming visit to New Delhi. “A locally recruited force that understands the difficult terrain and regional conditions will significantly strengthen our border security,” he said.
To further promote regional connectivity and tourism, Sukhu reiterated his demand for the establishment of an airport at Rangreek in Spiti valley. He reviewed multiple ongoing road works and assured full state support to the BRO in their implementation.
Among key infrastructure updates, he pushed for declaring the Nithalthach-Harshil road a strategically important route. “This would enable all-weather connectivity between Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, enhancing tourism and trade,” he said.
The CM also urged acceleration of work on the Sansari-Killar-Thirot-Tandi road project, which has reached 35 percent completion. “The remaining work must be expedited to ensure timely access to these isolated regions,” he told BRO officers.
During the meeting, Lieutenant General GD Mishra, General Officer Commanding, Uttar Bharat Area, briefed the CM on upcoming welfare initiatives. “The Army will soon establish an apple processing plant in the region and conduct a cataract surgery medical camp for local residents,” he informed.
Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi and Additional Chief Secretary KK Pant also attended the session.
