CM Tamang thanks Modi for taking Sikkim's orchid heritage to international stage

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for showcasing the state's orchid heritage and traditional craftsmanship on the international stage during his visit to Norway.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Thursday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for showcasing the Himalayan state's orchid heritage and traditional craftsmanship on the international stage during his recent visit to Norway.

He said Sikkim's natural beauty and rich biodiversity found a ''place in global diplomacy'' as Modi presented beautifully crafted pressed orchid paintings and orchid paperweights to Prime Minister of Norway, Jonas Gahr Støre.

These exquisite artworks, composed of real pressed orchids and ferns from the mist-covered valleys of Sikkim, celebrate the extraordinary biodiversity of the eastern Himalayas.

''On behalf of the people of Sikkim, I sincerely thank Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji for bringing Sikkim's orchid heritage and traditional craftsmanship to international attention,'' Tamang said in a social media post.

The chief minister said the orchids and ferns gifted by the PM symbolised Sikkim's pristine environment and organic way of life.

He also noted that the gesture reflected the recognition of the state's distinct cultural and ecological identity.

Tamang said Sikkim is widely known for its extraordinary floral diversity, especially its rare orchid species, which form an important part of the state's natural heritage.

The international showcase of these handcrafted artworks has been welcomed as a proud moment for the people of the state, he said.

''It is truly heartening to see Sikkim's floral legacy receiving international recognition, bringing immense pride to every Sikkimese,'' he added.

Modi on Thursday returned from a five-nation tour during which he signed pacts on energy, defence, and critical minerals.

The Prime Minister embarked on his tour on May 15, visiting the United Arab Emirates, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy over the course of several days.