Gangtok, Feb 9: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Monday expressed his gratitude to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and the Central Government for the Union Budget’s emphasis on the North-Eastern region, highlighting the announcement of the Scheme for Development of Buddhist Circuits.

The Chief Minister noted that the recognition of the North-East as a civilizational confluence of the Theravada and Mahayana/Vajrayana traditions, along with plans to preserve Buddhist sites and monasteries, improve connectivity, and enhance pilgrim amenities, aligns with Sikkim’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

He also mentioned that he had the opportunity to meet Finance Minister Sitharaman to discuss various developmental issues concerning Sikkim, describing the interaction as “enriching and encouraging,” reflecting the Centre’s continued support for inclusive and sustainable development.

CM Tamang further conveyed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his “visionary leadership and constant encouragement,” which he said helps states like Sikkim receive consistent support for holistic, people-centric development.