In a proactive move to safeguard tourists, the Sikkim government has issued a public advisory against fraudulent travel agency that has been targeting unsuspecting visitors. The advisory, released on October 18, 2024, highlights the deceptive practices of the agency named “Get Set Go Adventure,” which has been reported for collecting advance payments from tourists and failing to provide the promised services. This advisory aims to prevent further scams and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all tourists visiting Sikkim.
Overview of the Advisory
The advisory issued by the Sikkim Tourism and Civil Aviation Department urges tourists to exercise caution when booking tours and to verify the authenticity of travel agencies. The department has received numerous complaints from tourists who have fallen victim to the fraudulent activities of “Get Set Go Adventure.” These tourists reported that after making advance payments, the agency either became unresponsive or failed to deliver the promised services, causing significant distress and financial loss.
Objectives and Goals
The primary objectives of the advisory are:
- Protecting Tourists: To safeguard tourists from falling victim to fraudulent travel agencies.
- Promoting Verified Agencies: To encourage tourists to book tours through verified and registered travel agencies.
- Enhancing Tourism Experience: To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for tourists visiting Sikkim.
Key Features of the Advisory
- Verification of Travel Agencies: Tourists are advised to verify the authenticity of travel agencies before making any bookings. The advisory recommends booking tours only through agencies registered with the Sikkim Tourism and Civil Aviation Department.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: The government has launched public awareness campaigns to educate tourists about the risks of booking through unverified agencies and the importance of using registered travel agencies.
- Support and Assistance: The advisory provides contact information for Tourist Information Centres where tourists can seek assistance and verify the authenticity of travel agencies.
Impact on Tourism
The advisory is expected to have a significant impact on tourism in Sikkim:
- Increased Trust: By promoting the use of verified travel agencies, the advisory aims to build trust among tourists and enhance their overall experience.
- Reduction in Fraud Cases: The advisory is likely to reduce the number of fraud cases, ensuring that tourists have a safe and enjoyable visit to Sikkim.
- Boost to Local Economy: By encouraging tourists to use registered agencies, the advisory supports local businesses and contributes to the growth of the local economy.
Challenges and Solutions
While the advisory is a positive step, it also presents several challenges:
- Reaching All Tourists: Ensuring that the advisory reaches all tourists, especially those who book tours online, can be challenging. The government is using various channels, including social media, websites, and tourist information centres, to disseminate the advisory widely.
- Verification Process: Tourists may find it difficult to verify the authenticity of travel agencies. The government has provided a list of registered agencies on the Sikkim Tourism website to simplify the verification process.
- Continuous Monitoring: Continuous monitoring and updating of the list of registered agencies are essential to ensure that tourists have access to accurate information. The government is committed to maintaining an up-to-date list and addressing any complaints promptly.
Government and Community Support
The success of the advisory relies on the support of the government and the local community:
- Government Initiatives: The Sikkim government has been proactive in addressing the issue of fraudulent travel agencies. The advisory is part of a broader initiative to promote safe and responsible tourism in the state.
- Community Involvement: Local communities play a crucial role in supporting the advisory by reporting any suspicious activities and promoting the use of verified travel agencies.
Future Prospects
The advisory is expected to have long-term benefits for tourism in Sikkim:
- Sustainable Tourism: By promoting the use of verified travel agencies, the advisory supports sustainable tourism practices that benefit both tourists and the local community.
- Enhanced Reputation: The advisory helps enhance Sikkim’s reputation as a safe and reliable tourist destination, attracting more visitors in the future.
- Continuous Improvement: The government is committed to continuously improving the tourism experience in Sikkim by addressing any issues promptly and implementing new measures as needed.
Conclusion
The Sikkim government’s advisory against fraudulent travel agencies is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and satisfaction of tourists. By promoting the use of verified travel agencies and raising awareness about the risks of booking through unverified sources, the advisory aims to protect tourists and enhance their overall experience. With the support of the government and the local community, Sikkim is set to become a safer and more reliable destination for tourists from around the world.
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#Sikkim government issues advisory against fraudulent travel agency targeting touristshttps://t.co/YiONrxbbrm
— India Today NE (@IndiaTodayNE) October 18, 2024
FAQs
What is the advisory issued by the Sikkim government about?
The advisory warns tourists against a fraudulent travel agency named “Get Set Go Adventure” and urges them to verify the authenticity of travel agencies before booking tours.
Why was the advisory issued?
The advisory was issued in response to numerous complaints from tourists who were defrauded by “Get Set Go Adventure,” which collected advance payments and failed to provide the promised services.
How can tourists verify the authenticity of travel agencies?
Tourists can verify the authenticity of travel agencies by booking tours through agencies registered with the Sikkim Tourism and Civil Aviation Department. The list of registered agencies is available on the Sikkim Tourism website.
What impact is the advisory expected to have on tourism in Sikkim?
The advisory is expected to increase trust among tourists, reduce fraud cases, and boost the local economy by promoting the use of verified travel agencies.
How is the government supporting the advisory?
The government is supporting the advisory through public awareness campaigns, providing contact information for Tourist Information Centres, and maintaining an up-to-date list of registered travel agencies.
