Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and Communications, Jyotiraditya Scindia, arrived in Sikkim today for a high-profile three-day official visit. The visit is designed to evaluate the progress of critical infrastructure projects and further solidify the developmental partnership between the Central Government and the Himalayan state.
The Minister’s itinerary began with his arrival at Bagdogra Airport this evening, from where he proceeded to Namchi in South Sikkim. His first full day of engagements on May 15 will focus on the state’s burgeoning tourism and connectivity sectors. Scindia is scheduled to visit the iconic Temi Tea Garden, Sikkim’s only tea estate, followed by a technical inspection of the ambitious Bhaleydunga Ropeway Project in Yangang. This project is a cornerstone of the region’s strategy to position Sikkim as a premier eco-tourism destination.
Adding a cultural and sporting dimension to the visit, the Union Minister will attend the Sikkim Premier League at Bhaichung Stadium before traveling to Gangtok. While in the capital, he will visit ‘Orchidium,’ a major cultural attraction that recently drew praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These visits underscore the Ministry’s commitment to blending infrastructure growth with the preservation of Sikkim’s unique heritage.
On May 16, the focus shifts to national security and religious tourism as Scindia travels to the Indo-China border at Nathu La Pass. He will inspect newly developed facilities intended for the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, including acclimatization centres at Hangu Lake and the 17th Mile. Furthermore, he will review the construction of a massive parking complex at Nathu La, designed to house nearly 1,000 vehicles to better manage the influx of high-altitude tourists and pilgrims.
The three-day visit will culminate in Gangtok, where Minister Scindia will serve as the Guest of Honour for the 51st State Day celebrations. His presence at this milestone event highlights the strategic importance of Sikkim in the “Act East” policy, focusing on border infrastructure, enhanced connectivity, and the economic empowerment of the northeastern frontier.
