VP Radhakrishnan wraps up first official visit to Sikkim

Monday, May 18, 2026 22:00 [IST]

Last Update: Sunday, May 17, 2026 16:27 [IST]

VP Radhakrishnan wraps up first official visit to Sikkim

Radhakrishnan Plants Rhododendron Sapling Before Concluding Sikkim Visit

State leaders see off VP Radhakrishnan

 GANGTOK, (IPR): The Vice President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, concluded his official visit to Sikkim today following a series of engagements held as part of the 51st State Day celebrations of the State.

Prior to leaving Lok Bhavan by road this morning, the Vice President planted a sapling of a rhododendron tree at the Old Lok Bhavan complex.

The visit was the first official tour of C. P. Radhakrishnan to Sikkim after assuming office as the Vice President of India.

During his visit to Sikkim, the Vice President participated in the 51st Statehood Day celebration held at Manan Kendra on Saturday, where he joined the commemorative programme alongside dignitaries, officials and members of the public. He also laid the foundation stones for several major developmental projects and inaugurated key infrastructure initiatives aimed at strengthening connectivity, education, tourism and public services in the State.

As part of his itinerary, the Vice President visited the orchidarium at Ridge Park and Namgyal Institute of Tibetology at Deorali, where he appreciated Sikkim’s rich cultural heritage, biodiversity and continued efforts towards preservation of traditional knowledge and heritage.

Addressing the gathering during the State Day celebration, the Vice President described Sikkim as a model of harmony, sustainability and disciplined living. He commended the State’s achievements in environmental conservation, organic farming and inclusive development.

Governor Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, Speaker M.N. Sherpa, ministers Sonam Lama and Arun Upreti, Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba, Chief Secretary R. Telang and senior officials of State administration were present at Lok Bhavan today morning before the Vice President’s onward journey.

Sikkim at a Glance

  • Area: 7096 Sq Kms
  • Capital: Gangtok
  • Altitude: 5,840 ft
  • Population: 6.10 Lakhs
  • Topography: Hilly terrain elevation from 600 to over 28,509 ft above sea level
  • Climate:
  • Summer: Min- 13°C - Max 21°C
  • Winter: Min- 0.48°C - Max 13°C
  • Rainfall: 325 cms per annum
  • Language Spoken: Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, Tibetan, English, Hindi