West Kameng, March 29:
In a notable initiative aimed at strengthening tourism and enhancing livelihood opportunities in remote border areas, Lt Gen Gambhir Singh, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Gajraj Corps, inaugurated the Orchid Nest Café at Sessa in West Kameng district.
The café has been developed through a joint effort of the Indian Army and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under Project VARTAK, reflecting a coordinated push toward infrastructure development and community support in strategically important regions. Nestled in the picturesque Sessa Valley, close to the strategically significant Nichephu Tunnel, the Orchid Nest Café is expected to emerge as a convenient stopover for tourists, local residents, and security personnel.
Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes, the facility offers a welcoming space for visitors travelling through the region, which has seen increasing tourist interest in recent years. The café provides essential amenities, refreshments, and rest facilities, making travel through this stretch more comfortable and accessible.
Beyond improving visitor experience, the initiative is expected to generate employment opportunities for local residents, thereby contributing to the socio-economic development of West Kameng district. By involving local communities, the project also aims to ensure sustainable growth while preserving the natural and cultural essence of the region.
Officials highlighted that such initiatives play a crucial role in promoting border tourism, which not only brings economic benefits but also fosters stronger connections between remote communities and the rest of the country. The development of small yet impactful infrastructure like the Orchid Nest Café is part of a broader effort to make border areas more vibrant and self-sustaining.
The Indian Army and BRO have been actively involved in improving connectivity and infrastructure across Arunachal Pradesh, particularly in challenging terrains. Projects under BRO’s Project VARTAK have significantly enhanced road networks, enabling better access to remote areas and opening new possibilities for tourism and trade.
The inauguration of the Orchid Nest Café stands as another example of how strategic infrastructure development, combined with community-focused initiatives, can transform remote regions into emerging hubs of tourism and economic activity.
