Raj Bhawan hosts ‘Sikkim Day’ celebrations

Srinagar, May 16: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Tuesday extended his heartiest greetings to the people of Sikkim on the occasion of their Statehood Day.

An official spokesman in a statement issued here said that Jammu Kashmir Raj Bhawan hosted the celebration of the statehood day of Sikkim.

The spokesman said that speaking at the function, the LG said, “Situated in the eastern Himalayan region, Sikkim is blessed with nature's richness, divinity of Teesta River, string of lakes and breathtaking views of ancient monasteries in majestic mountains.”

He said that Sikkim was one of the most beautiful states of India and also known as the first organic state of the country.

“Progressive spirit of the state and sustained hard work of people can be seen in all-round prosperity and historic achievements in tourism, education, agriculture, and sanitation,” the LG said. “In a historic move to strengthen the bonds between J&K and Sikkim and to foster the spirit of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’, an agreement was signed last year for collaboration on capacity building for saffron cultivation and to enhance interaction between researchers and farmers.”

He said the celebration of the Statehood Day of Sikkim from this land of Vitasta had further deepened the connection between the two regions.

The LG also made a special mention of Padma Shri Tula Ram Upreti, a 98-year-old organic farmer from Sikkim and eminent Thangka painter from Sikkim, Padma Shri Khandu Wangchuk, and lauded their contributions in their respective fields.

The spokesman said that artists dedicating the love from Jammu Kashmir to Sikkim presented some spellbinding performances to mark the occasion.

He said that security forces personnel and students from Sikkim living in J&K were the special invitees.