Gangtok, May 1 (IANS) Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday said he was deeply moved by the warm reception accorded to him during his visit to Mangan district in Sikkim, praising the hospitality and spirit of the people of the region.

Sharing his experience in a post on X, Rijiju said the residents of Mangan, Lachung, and Lachen welcomed him with warmth and affection.

He described the picturesque Himalayan region as a land that beautifully represents “strength and simplicity in its finest form”.

The Union Minister was accompanied by Sikkim minister Samdup Lepcha, government officials, local leaders, and noted singer Mohit Chauhan during the visit.

The gathering reflected close coordination between the Centre and the state government in promoting development and public outreach in the region.

Rijiju also appreciated the cultural richness and peaceful environment of North Sikkim, stating that such interactions strengthen bonds between communities and leadership.

His visit is being seen as significant amid continued focus on connectivity, tourism, and infrastructure growth in the strategically important Himalayan state of Sikkim.

Notably, PM Modi on his recent visit to the Himalayan state inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple development projects worth around Rs 4,000 crore in Sikkim, asserting that the Northeast region is India’s “Ashtalakshmi” and that the Himalayan state is an important part of it.

Addressing a public gathering at the Paljor Stadium, the Prime Minister said the Centre has attached special importance to the development of the Northeast over the past several years and has moved beyond the “Act East” policy to an “Act Fast” approach.

–IANS

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