New Delhi | August 25, 2025 — Sikkim’s Minister for Ecclesiastical Affairs, Public Health Engineering (PHE), and Water Resources, Sonam Lama, met with Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Monday to discuss a range of important matters concerning the state.
Return of the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa a Key Concern
One of the central topics of discussion was the return of His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorji, to India — an issue that holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for the people of Sikkim.
Minister Lama emphasized that the Karmapa’s return remains a long-standing and heartfelt aspiration of the Sikkimese Buddhist community. In response, Amit Shah assured that the Government of India will make every effort to address the matter, recognising its importance to the people of the region.
Development Support Under Vibrant Village Programme
The meeting also focused on infrastructure development in remote and border villages, particularly under the Vibrant Village Programme. Minister Lama highlighted the urgent need for:
Reliable drinking water supply
Efficient sewerage systems
Enhanced water resource management
He presented proposals from the Sikkim state government and sought the Centre’s support for faster implementation of these essential projects aimed at improving the quality of life in under-served communities.
Acknowledgement of Sikkim’s Cultural Initiatives
Union Minister Amit Shah commended Sikkim’s annual Vijay Diwas celebrations at Nathula, an initiative introduced by Chief Minister P.S. Tamang (Golay) to honour Indian soldiers and promote national pride. He assured the Union Government’s full cooperation in addressing Sikkim’s administrative and developmental needs.
Both leaders agreed to work closely going forward to resolve state-level issues and support Sikkim’s growth in key sectors.
