The Sikkim Assembly passed the Sikkim Registration of Tourist Trade Bill, 2024, aimed at regulating the state's tourism industry and enhancing the quality of services provided to visitors. Introduced by Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia, the bill establishes a legal framework to ensure that all stakeholders adhere to safety, quality, and ethical standards, thereby making Sikkim one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in India.

"The bill is designed to promote responsible tourism, enforce mandated behaviors among stakeholders and tourists, and impose fines for non-compliance with its provisions," stated Minister Bhutia. The bill also emphasizes sustainable tourism, environmental responsibility, and community development, empowering the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department while restructuring it for better governance.

In addition to the tourism bill, the Assembly also passed the Sikkim Court Fees and Stamps on Documents (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which introduces e-stamping in the state. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang explained that e-stamping modernizes the payment of stamp duty electronically, offering the same legal status as conventional stamps. "E-stamping simplifies verification, reduces errors, and enhances traceability," he added.

Another significant legislative action was the passage of the Sikkim Online Gaming (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2024. This bill aims to regulate online gaming operations within the state by redefining the term 'Intranet Gaming Terminal' and introducing penalties for unlicensed operators.

The four-day budget session of the Sikkim Assembly began on Monday, with proceedings on the second day commencing with obituary references to former MP Pahalman Subba and former MLAs Sonam Gyatso Bhutia and Ram Chandra Poud. The Motion of Thanks to the Governor's address was passed without discussion, and the opening discussion on the state's budget for 2024-25 was deferred, with voting and passing scheduled for August 9. The Assembly also passed the Demands for Excess Grants/Appropriation for 2015-16, moved by Chief Minister Tamang, who holds the Finance portfolio.

The House was then adjourned until 11 am on Wednesday.