Gangtok, 28 April (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday visited the Orchidarium at Swarnajayanti Maitri Manjari Park in Gangtok and described the experience as “mesmerising,” praising Sikkim’s rich floral and ecological diversity. Speaking about the visit, he said, “I visited the Orchidarium in Gangtok and was mesmerised by its beauty. Sikkim’s rich biodiversity is truly extraordinary. Such efforts reflect our deep harmony with nature. They also inspire us towards conservation and sustainable living.”

A showcase of Himalayan flora

The Orchidarium, developed as a state‑of‑the‑art orchid experience centre, is designed to display Sikkim’s unique orchid species and Himalayan flora while blending conservation, research and public awareness. Created as part of the state’s Golden Jubilee year celebrations, the facility sits within the Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden‑linked park and has been opened to the public with easy digital ticketing and interactive signage to educate visitors about local plant life and climate‑wise gardening.

During his walk through the conservatory,PM Modi interacted with forest‑department officials, botanists and local horticulturists, reviewing initiatives that link biodiversity protection with eco‑tourism and community‑based livelihoods. He noted that preserving such green spaces not only safeguards Sikkim’s ecological identity but also enhances its appeal as a clean, green tourism destination.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar