Sikkim CM Meets PM Modi, Discusses Key Development Issues

(MENAFN- IANS) New Delhi, April 8 (IANS) Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Wednesday said he had a“warm, cordial and meaningful” meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a courtesy call in New Delhi, where key developmental priorities of the Himalayan state were discussed.

In a post on X, Tamang said he congratulated the Prime Minister on achieving the milestone of becoming India's longest-serving Head of Government, and expressed appreciation for his leadership.

“At the outset, I extended my heartiest congratulations to the Hon'ble Prime Minister on this remarkable milestone,” the Chief Minister said, adding that the interaction provided an opportunity to highlight Sikkim's evolving developmental needs.

According to Tamang, he apprised the Prime Minister of the state's priority areas, including infrastructure expansion, sustainable development, and measures to improve the overall welfare of the people.

He also discussed avenues to enhance Center–State cooperation and accelerate growth in these sectors.

A key highlight of the meeting was the reopening of the Nathu La Pass trade route, part of the historic Silk Route, which is scheduled to resume operations from June 2026.

The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for facilitating the move, noting that it is expected to provide a major boost to local livelihoods and benefit the region's trading community.

Tamang further said he extended a formal invitation to the Prime Minister to attend the closing ceremony of the Golden Jubilee celebrations marking 50 years of Sikkim's statehood.

He added that the Prime Minister has graciously accepted the invitation.

Expressing appreciation for the Centre's continued support, the Chief Minister thanked the Government of India for its guidance and encouragement in Sikkim's development journey.

He reiterated that the state remains committed to working closely with the Union government to ensure sustained progress and prosperity for its people.

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