New Delhi, May 15: Union Minister for Communications and Development of the Northeastern Region, Jyotiraditya Scindia, visited Sikkim to review various significant projects related to education, tourism, tea production, and sports development on the second day of his tour. During his visit, he engaged with students, tea plantation workers, local residents, and young athletes, emphasizing that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the central government is continuously working to enhance infrastructure, employment, tourism, and talent development in the northeastern region.
Scindia inspected the under-construction Khangchendzonga Sikkim State University in Tarku, which is being developed over an area of approximately 28 acres. This will be Sikkim’s first state university, with financial assistance of ₹9.61 crores from the Northeastern Council. Once completed, the university will provide educational facilities for around 1,500 students.
During the inspection, the minister reviewed the progress of the administrative building and other works. He observed the natural surroundings and pathways of the campus, suggesting the inclusion of more green areas and natural elements. He also praised the engineers and implementing agencies for the pace and quality of the construction work.
Following this, Scindia visited the renowned Temi Tea Estate and the Temi Tea Processing Unit. He examined various processes of tea production, processing, and packaging, and discussed international market and export potential with officials.
Officials informed the minister that the Temi Tea Estate is adopting an LPG-based processing system instead of coal, making the production process cleaner and more environmentally friendly. The need to obtain a GI tag for Temi Tea was also discussed.
Scindia interacted with female tea workers and plantation employees, winning the hearts of locals by conversing in Nepali. He praised the labor, discipline, and dedication of the workers, stating that Sikkim’s tea has become a global identity for the state.
The minister also visited the Indian Himalayan Center for Adventure and Eco-Tourism in Chemche. Here, he reviewed the Namchi–Temi–Ravangla tourism circuit being developed in collaboration with the Sikkim government and the Ministry of Development of the Northeastern Region.
He observed facilities related to rock climbing, ice climbing, cycling tracks, trekking, skiing, mountaineering, and eco-tourism activities. Scindia suggested adding more recreational and tourism activities for all age groups to further empower the region’s tourism. Discussions also took place regarding tourism and religious routes in the area, including the Char Dham corridor.
Scindia participated in the semi-final match of the fourth edition of the Sikkim Premier League held at Bhai Chung Stadium. The traditional Nepali Maruni dance performed by local youth captivated everyone present.
Addressing the players and attendees, Scindia stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision is to make the northeastern region a major sports hub in the country. Efforts are underway to promote the youth of the northeast at national and international levels through talent identification, scientific training, sports science, and modern technology.
He mentioned the ‘One Sport, One State’ approach and the 60:40 model based on sports facilities, coaching, and talent scouting. Scindia noted that the Sikkim Premier League is becoming a significant platform for the state’s young football players.
The minister also inspected the progress of the Bhuleyadhunga Skywalk project, developed under the Prime Minister-Divine scheme, traveling via the 3.2-kilometer-long Bhuleyadhunga Ropeway. He reviewed various construction works and arrangements of this project, which is being developed at a cost of approximately ₹220 crores.
The circular glass skywalk, measuring 240 meters long, is being constructed at an altitude of 3,200 meters. Upon completion, it will be the world’s highest skywalk, likely giving Sikkim’s tourism and adventure tourism a global identity.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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