Gangtok: Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya Scindia on Saturday visited the Orchidarium in Gangtok during his three-day visit to Sikkim, describing the attraction as “amazing” and praising the efforts of the State government in developing the site.
Scindia is in Sikkim to attend the 50th Statehood Day celebrations being held on May 16 alongside Vice President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan, who is also on a one-day visit to the State.
During his visit to the Orchidarium, Gangtok Municipal Corporation Commissioner Gary Chopel, who has played a key role in the development of the Orchidarium, briefed the media on the growing popularity of the tourist destination following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Sikkim.
According to officials, tourist footfall at the Orchidarium has witnessed a rise of over 300 percent since the Prime Minister’s visit and mention of the site. Officials stated that the attraction has emerged as a major focal point for visiting national leaders and tourists alike.
Speaking during the visit, Scindia appreciated the State government’s initiative in promoting tourism infrastructure and said the Orchidarium reflects Sikkim’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
Earlier on May 15, the Union Minister visited Namchi district where he participated in tea leaf plucking at the famous Temi Tea Garden in Tarku. He also attended the semi-final match of the Sikkim Premier League football tournament as chief guest at Bhaichung Stadium in Namchi.
During the district visit, Scindia reviewed various infrastructure and development projects being implemented under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region across Namchi district and other parts of the State.
The Minister’s visit is being viewed positively in Sikkim, with expectations of greater support for infrastructure expansion, tourism promotion and development projects in the Himalayan State.