Gangtok, May 16: Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Jyotiraditya M Scindia, visited the Orchidarium at Ridge Park on Saturday, emphasizing Sikkim’s dedication to biodiversity conservation and sustainable tourism.

The Orchidarium, located within the Swarna Jayanti Maitreya Manjari Complex, serves as a showcase of the state’s floral wealth, housing rare and indigenous orchid species that reflect Sikkim’s ecological richness. During his tour, Scindia examined the preservation processes and the layout of the growing area, expressing deep appreciation for the institution. He remarked that the Orchidarium was so captivating that he could easily spend an entire day exploring its collection.

The Union Minister admired the decor and toured the glass preservation atrium before concluding his visit by signing the visitors’ book. He was received by Mayor of Gangtok Municipal Corporation, Tshering Palden Bhutia; Secretary of the Urban Development Department, Yogeeta Rai; Special Secretary of the Planning & Development Department, Jigmee Basi; GMC Municipal Commissioner, Gary Chopel; Political Secretary to the Chief Minister, Bikash Basnet; Laison Officer, Chewang Zigmee Lachungpa, along with the Ridge Park management team and officials from concerned departments.

The visit emphasized the national recognition of Sikkim’s efforts to balance ecological preservation with tourism development, reinforcing its position as a leading destination for sustainable practices and natural heritage.