Civil society organizations in Sikkim advocate for:

The correct answer is: d) All of the above

Civil society organizations (CSOs) in Sikkim advocate for the rights of Scheduled Tribes (STs), environmental protection with tribal participation, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

STs are a group of indigenous peoples who are recognized by the Indian government as having special rights and privileges. CSOs in Sikkim advocate for the rights of STs to land, water, and other natural resources, as well as their right to self-determination.

Environmental protection is a major concern for CSOs in Sikkim, as the state is home to a number of fragile ecosystems. CSOs work to protect the environment by advocating for sustainable development practices, such as the use of renewable energy and the protection of forests.

Preservation of cultural heritage is also a priority for CSOs in Sikkim. CSOs work to protect the state’s unique culture and traditions by promoting education about the culture, supporting traditional arts and crafts, and advocating for the preservation of historical sites.

Here are some examples of CSOs in Sikkim that advocate for the rights of STs, environmental protection with tribal participation, and the preservation of cultural heritage:

• The Sikkim Bhutia Lepcha Apex Committee (SBLAC) is a non-profit organization that works to protect the rights of the Bhutia and Lepcha people of Sikkim. The SBLAC advocates for the rights of STs to land, water, and other natural resources, as well as their right to self-determination.
• The Himalayan Environmental Studies and Conservation Organization (HESCO) is a non-profit organization that works to protect the environment in the Himalayas. HESCO advocates for sustainable development practices, such as the use of renewable energy and the protection of forests.
• The Sikkim Heritage Conservation Society (SHCS) is a non-profit organization that works to preserve the cultural heritage of Sikkim. The SHCS promotes education about the culture, supports traditional arts and crafts, and advocates for the preservation of historical sites.