Teesta - Ministry of Power

21
Preliminary Feasibility Report
Teesta (I) HE Project (4 x 80 MW)
Dikchu. In the downstream the Rongni Chu joins Teesta River at Singtam, Rangpo
Chu at Rangpo and Rangit at Melli.
3.2 SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND OTHER ASPECTS
3.2.1 Demographic Features
Sikkim is a multi-ethnic State. Broadly, the population can be divided into tribal and
non-tribal groups. Lepchas, Bhutias, Sherpas are categorized as Scheduled Tribes. The
Lepchas are the original inhabitants of the State. Compared to other ethnic groups, the
Lepchas still maintain many of their traditional ways. The Bhutias comprise, the
Sikkimese Bhutia and Bhutia from Bhutan and Tibet. The Sherpas are a marginal
ethnic group in the State. Over 80% population consists of Nepalese. The people from
the plain, mostly involved in trade and services, represent a marginal group. As per the
2001 Census of India, the total population of the State is 540,493. The overall density
of population in the State is 57 per sq km. East district is the most populated whereas
that of the North District is only 7 per sq km and is the least populated. Sex ratio
(females per thousand male) in 1981 was 835, whereas it had improved in 1991 to 878
and in 2001 has shown a declining trend with a value of 875. There are only eight
urban towns and urban population is 9.10% of total population. Literacy rate was
56.94% (19th position) in 1991 and has increased to 70.65% in 2001. The rural
literacy rate in 2001 is 68.59% whereas the urban literacy rate is 85.80%.
The economy of Sikkim is mainly based on agricultural and animal husbandry.
Approximately 11% of the total geographical area is under agriculture. The work force
participation rate as per 1991 census is 40.44%. The female participation rate in
Sikkim is also much higher than the national average. This is an important aspect of
the hill economy, as productivity is low and hence all the able-bodied people are
employed in agriculture and other activities. Cultivators account for the greater
majority of the people in the State. Animal husbandry is an integral part of the house
holds economy of the region. There are certain household industries also which