New Delhi [India], January 10 (ANI): Sikkim Member of Parliament, Indra Hang Subba, Lok Sabha, on Saturday, called on Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and discussed issues of strategic and developmental importance concerning the state of Sikkim.

During the meeting, the MP conveyed New Year greetings to the Defence Minister and appreciated his leadership in strengthening India's defence preparedness, particularly in strategically sensitive border areas. He highlighted Sikkim's strategic location, sharing international borders with three neighbouring countries, and reiterated the State's commitment to national unity, peace, and security.

Subba apprised the Defence Minister of the disruption to the North Sikkim Highway following the Teesta flash floods of October 2023, which had adversely affected civilian movement and defence logistics to sensitive northern sectors. While connectivity has been restored through an interim alignment by the Border Roads Organisation between Mangan and Naga, the MP pointed out that the route passes through an active landslide zone and may not be sustainable in the long term. He requested expeditious approval and implementation of the permanent alternative alignment under consideration to ensure safe and all-weather connectivity in North Sikkim.

The MP also raised issues bearing on inclusive development, including the inclusion of 12 left-out communities of Sikkim in the Scheduled Tribes list, the reservation of seats for the Limboo and Tamang Scheduled Tribe communities in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, and the facilitation of His Holiness the 17th Karmapa's visit to Sikkim.

He sought the Defence Minister's intervention in these matters as a senior leader of the National Democratic Alliance.Further, Dr. Subba drew attention to critical infrastructure concerns such as the vulnerability of National Highway-10, the only surface lifeline connecting Sikkim with the rest of the country, and the need for early operationalisation of Pakyong Airport. He emphasised the importance of long-term and sustainable solutions to strengthen connectivity and resilience in the border State.

The Defence Minister assured that the issues raised would be examined in consultation with the concerned Ministries and agencies. (ANI)