Soreng, May 28, 2026: Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Government of India, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat visited Soreng district in Sikkim on Thursday as part of his official tour scheduled from May 28 to 29, 2026.
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| Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat poses with officials, public representatives, and local stakeholders during his visit to Sang Ngag Yangtze Monastery in Soreng district, Sikkim, on May 28, 2026. (DIO Soreng) |
During the visit, the Union Minister participated in review meetings and interacted with local youth, tourism stakeholders, and officials to assess the tourism potential and developmental prospects of the district.
As part of the tour, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat visited several major religious and tourism destinations in Soreng district, including the Sang Ngag Yangtze Monastery at Rinchenpong, Rinchen Chholing Monastery at Meghi Dara, Trout Farming Centre at Sribadam, and Sribadam Waterfall.
The visit highlighted the district’s rich cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and growing eco-tourism potential.
Addressing stakeholders, the Union Minister stressed the importance of promoting Sikkim’s tourism destinations through digital platforms to improve visibility and attract more domestic and international tourists to the state.
Deputy Commissioner of Soreng, Mr. Dhiraj Subedi, briefed the Minister on the developmental profile of Soreng district as an Aspirational District. He outlined initiatives undertaken by the district administration for the promotion of eco-tourism, sustainable tourism, and preservation of cultural and traditional heritage.
Mr. Subedi also thanked the Union Minister for visiting Soreng district and said such visits would help strengthen tourism development initiatives and enhance national-level recognition of the district’s cultural and natural assets.
During his visit to Sang Ngag Yangtze Monastery, the monastery committee briefed the Minister on the history and significance of Buddhism in the region and shared future plans, including the proposed construction of a statue of Amitabha Buddha to promote Buddhist heritage, spirituality, and religious tourism.
The committee also presented souvenirs and tokens of appreciation to the Union Minister and other dignitaries present during the programme.
Cultural performances showcasing the traditions and heritage of the region were presented during the visit. Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat appreciated the performances and praised the rich cultural diversity, traditional values, and unique identity of the region. He encouraged students and artists to continue preserving traditional art forms for future generations.
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During the evening interaction programme, the Union Minister addressed students, tourism stakeholders, and local residents. He spoke about India’s rich civilisation and enduring cultural legacy, while emphasising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Viksit Bharat.”
He also encouraged tourism stakeholders and local entrepreneurs to utilise emerging opportunities for growth and development.
Officials stated that the visit is expected to further strengthen tourism promotion efforts in Soreng district while encouraging preservation of its cultural and spiritual heritage.
Several dignitaries, including elected representatives, senior officials from the Tourism and Culture Departments, district administration officials, and local stakeholders, were present during the visit.
