New Delhi, February 9: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) on Sunday called on Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi and held a detailed discussion on key developmental priorities concerning the Himalayan state. The meeting focused on issues related to infrastructure, cultural heritage, economic development, and continued cooperation between the Centre and the State for Sikkim's long-term progress.
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| Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) greets Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during a meeting in New Delhi to discuss key developmental priorities of the State. (Image: CMO Office) |
During the meeting, the Chief Minister conveyed his heartfelt gratitude, on behalf of the people of Sikkim, to the Union Finance Minister and the Government of India for according special emphasis to the North-Eastern Region in the Union Budget. He particularly welcomed the announcement of the Scheme for Development of Buddhist Circuits, describing it as a significant initiative that would benefit Sikkim and other Buddhist heritage destinations across the country.
Prem Singh Tamang noted that the Union Budget's recognition of the North-East as a civilisational confluence of the Theravada and Mahayana/Vajrayana Buddhist traditions has been widely appreciated by the people of Sikkim. He said the proposed initiatives for preserving Buddhist monasteries and heritage sites, improving connectivity, and strengthening pilgrim amenities closely align with Sikkim's rich spiritual and cultural legacy.
The Chief Minister highlighted the state's immense potential as a centre for Buddhist pilgrimage, eco-tourism, and cultural tourism, expressing confidence that the proposed Buddhist Circuit initiative would not only preserve Sikkim's unique heritage but also generate employment opportunities, boost tourism, and contribute to the state's economic development.
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Apart from the Buddhist Circuit initiative, the meeting also covered several other developmental priorities and issues of significance to Sikkim. The Chief Minister discussed matters relating to the state's continued growth and sought the Centre's support in advancing projects that would strengthen infrastructure, improve public services, and enhance the quality of life for the people.
Prem Singh Tamang reiterated Sikkim's appreciation for the Central Government's consistent support and guidance in addressing issues vital to the state's progress, prosperity, and overall welfare. He also conveyed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his visionary leadership and sustained commitment towards the holistic and inclusive development of Sikkim and the North-Eastern region.
The meeting was attended by Chief Administrator-cum-Cabinet Secretary V. B. Pathak, Principal Resident Commissioner A. K. Chand, and Secretary to the Chief Minister's Office, Karma Namgyal, who also participated in the discussions on matters concerning the state's development agenda.
