Gangtok, February 6: Regional Director for NE Region, Ministry of Tourism Roma Singh today assured TAAS (Travel Agents Association of Sikkim) support in getting the association recognized by the Government of India. She was addressing a meeting of TAAS and representative from the Ministry of Tourismm, Indian Association of Tour Operator and State Tourism Department officials here this evening. Impressed by the “positive” activities taken up by TAAS in the development of tourism in Sikkim, the regional director said that her office will always be ready to support the association in getting recognised even it was a daunting task. “To get recognised by the central government is very difficult,” she added. Ms Singh also suggested the association to act as a leader to promote tourism in NE Region.During the meeting, TAAS members also submitted a formal letter to the regional director requesting for their recognition by the Government of India.President, TAAS, Palzor Lachungpa highlighted the aims and objectives of the association as well as the present and future activities of the association. He added that the visit of officials from the ministry and north eastern region will help boost tourism in Sikkim in the coming days.State Tourism Secretary SBS Bhaduria stressed that Sikkim tourism had developed tremendously over the years as compared to other hill states.In his address, IATO President, North-East Ashish Phukan said he was impressed with TAAS and appreciated the works taken up by them. “Other north eastern states should learn from TAAS to develop tourism,” he added. Mr. Phukan further suggested TAAS to coordinate with other north eastern states to promote tourism like they have done in Sikkim. Further he emphasized that NE states are rich in nature and culture which are the back bone of the tourism in states, so to protect, prevent and promote are the responsibility of the people. Other executive members of TAAS, Lukendra Rasaily, Karma Tashi and Sailesh Pradhan also placed their speech where they highlighted on the various activities of TAAS and appealed for positive support from the Ministry.