Gangtok, May 3: Sikkim marked a digital milestone in its Statehood celebrations by introducing interactive QR-based info cards at the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025, held at the Jio Convention Centre in BKC, Mumbai. The initiative is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to commemorate 50 years of Statehood, which will be observed on May 16, 2025.

The compact PVC-based cards, embedded with QR codes, link to a curated digital repository of initiatives and events launched by the Government of Sikkim. Designed and executed within a single day, the cards were a highlight of the summit, drawing attention from media professionals, content creators, and industry leaders.

The Sikkim delegation was led by Secretary of the Information and Public Relations Department, Annapurna Alley, and included Political Secretary to the Chief Minister Bikash Basnet, Press Secretary Yougan Tamang, Secretary of the IT Department Tenzing T Kaleon, Director of IT Tsering Samdup, and other officials from the IPR department.

The digital cards featured vibrant designs with state symbols and were well-received by delegates, serving as both a promotional tool and a networking medium. The initiative aligned with the national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ and underscored Sikkim’s focus on innovation and digital engagement.

Alongside the cards, the delegation also presented the IPR Department’s annual calendar and a coffee table book highlighting Sikkim’s diverse and film-friendly locations, targeting filmmakers and content creators looking for scenic yet accessible destinations.

The Sikkim team also participated in several high-profile sessions and panel discussions on the evolving media landscape. These included “Studios of the Future: Putting India on the World Studio Map” featuring actor Aamir Khan, and “The Unifying Power of Media Content” by Alexander Zharov, CEO of Gazprom Media.

Other key discussions involved “Opportunities Brought by AI in Media and Entertainment” led by NVIDIA Vice President Richard G Kerris, and “Trends and Virality: How Gen-Z Consumes Content” featuring Instagram Head Adam Mosseri and actress Shraddha Kapoor. A creative session by musician Shankar Mahadevan, presented by Google Labs and YouTube, was also among the summit highlights.

The delegation’s active participation and innovative approach reinforced Sikkim’s presence in the national creative and entertainment sector as it prepares to celebrate its Golden Jubilee of Statehood.