Gangtok: Sikkim, in a significant move underscores the state government's unwavering commitment to preserving its rich culture and traditions while bolstering local economies, said Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang at the foundation stone laying ceremony of two transformative infrastructure projects. 

The two infrastructure projects. which were inaugurated on Wednesday, signify a pivotal moment for Sikkim's tourism industry, as well as its cultural heritage.

At the heart of these endeavors lies the aspiration to generate gainful employment opportunities for the region's youth and budding tourism enthusiasts.

Chief Minister Tamang expressed his deep appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary outlook, which aims to rejuvenate remote border villages into thriving hubs of activity. Both Lachen and Lachung, the towns in which these projects are situated, are poised to reap substantial benefits from this ambitious central government initiative.

"The infrastructure development projects will serve as catalysts for tourism growth in both locales, beckoning an influx of global visitors in the coming years," stated Chief Minister Tamang.

The two groundbreaking projects are the Maitreya Buddha-cum-Cultural Complex in Lachen and the Guru Rinpoche Statue and Cultural Complex in Lachung, both strategically positioned in North Sikkim. These projects are not standalone endeavors; they dovetail seamlessly with the Vibrant Village Programme, an initiative of the Government of India. Collectively, they promise to play a pivotal role in the long-term development of these border regions.

Chief Minister Tamang seized the occasion to rally the local population, urging them to extend their wholehearted cooperation in harnessing the full potential of tourism in Lachen and Lachung. He stressed that the participation of the community is essential for the success of these projects, emphasizing that their benefits will extend to all segments of society.

Chief Minister Tamang moreover announced an annual Yak Festival, in a move to safeguard the age-old tradition of yak herding, which has faced the looming threat of extinction due to herders migrating to urban areas. This festival will be held in either Lachen or Lachung, serving as a vibrant celebration of the traditional occupation and a means to pass it down to future generations.

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