Indian Army facilitates women led cafe at 13,000 ft to boost tourism and livelihoods in East Sikkim

A cafe operated by an all-women local team has been established at an altitude of 13,000 ft in close proximity to the Baba Harbhajan Singh Shrine, a prominent site in East Sikkim.

The initiative reflects resilience, enterprise and self-reliance in a remote high-altitude region, and is expected to further enhance visitor experience in the area.

The project has been conceptualised and facilitated by Trishakti Corps in coordination with the civil administration and local stakeholders. As part of the broader Ranbhoomi Darshan initiative, it aims to promote tourism in border areas while showcasing the region’s heritage and strategic significance.

The cafe is generating local employment opportunities, particularly for women, thereby contributing to economic empowerment in remote communities.

By integrating livelihood generation with tourism, the initiative is expected to support sustainable development and increased tourist inflow to the shrine. The effort stands as a reflection of effective military–civil collaboration, reinforcing the Indian Army’s commitment to inclusive growth and development in border areas, while fostering stronger connections with citizens of India.