Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia reviewed development projects across Namchi, Sikkim on the second day of his official visit covering education, tourism, tea production and sports. He met students, tea workers, young sportspersons and local stakeholders and reiterated the Government of India’s focus on strengthening infrastructure, livelihoods and grassroots opportunities in the Northeast.

The minister visited the under-construction Khangchendzonga Sikkim State University at Tarku, the first state university in Sikkim, on a 28 acre campus partially funded by the North Eastern Council under the Ministry of DoNER with an allocation of Rs 96.1 million (mn). He reviewed the administrative block and campus infrastructure and suggested adding greenery. The university is expected to accommodate over 1,500 students.

At Temi Tea Estate and its processing unit he reviewed production, processing and packaging and discussed international market outreach. Officials briefed him on a transition to LPG based manufacturing to eliminate charcoal and reduce carbon residue and recommended pursuing GI certification. He met women pluckers and estate workers during the visit.

He reviewed the Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure and Eco Tourism at Chemchey and the proposed Namchi–Temi–Ravangla tourism circuit being developed with the Government of Sikkim and the Ministry of DoNER. Facilities under development include rock and ice climbing, cycling tracks, trekking, skiing and mountaineering with guided eco tourism activities. It was suggested that offerings be broadened to appeal to a wider range of visitors.

The minister attended the semifinal of the fourth Sikkim Premier League at Bhaichung Stadium, Namchi and observed cultural performances including the Nepali Maruni dance. He reiterated the Prime Minister’s vision of transforming the Northeast into a sporting hub and emphasised a One Sport, One State approach and the 60:40 framework prioritising coaching and talent scouting. He later travelled via the 3.5 km ropeway to review the Bhaleydhunga Skywalk Project under PM-DevINE at a cost of Rs 2.2 billion (bn); the 240 m circular glass skywalk proposed at 3,200 m is expected to emerge as the highest in the world.