The Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang, attended the 13th edition of the Ziro Festival of Music at the scenic Ziro Valley in Lower Subansiri district, where Sikkim participated for the first time as the official State Partner. The historic collaboration marked a significant step in strengthening cultural exchange and fostering closer ties between Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh.
The Chief Minister Tamang, accompanied by the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Pema Khandu and the Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, visited the festival venue and explored the stalls and pavilions showcasing “Make in Sikkim” brands, products, and cultural offerings. He extended warm greetings on behalf of the Government and people of Sikkim to the State Government of Arunachal Pradesh and all festival participants, describing it as an honour to be part of the North-East’s most iconic cultural celebration.
“The Ziro Festival is not just a stage for music but a celebration of diversity, unity, and cultural pride. It beautifully blends tradition with modernity, offering inspiration for youth, opportunities for artists and a vibrant platform for tourism and cultural exchange,” said the Chief Minister. He also praised the festival’s sustainability model, being a Plastic-Free Zone and Zero Waste Area, which resonates strongly with the national “Vocal for Local” campaign.
The Chief Minister further highlighted the cultural and geographical similarities between Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, both popularly known as the “States of Orchids.” He proposed an exchange programme between the two States to promote domestic tourism, cultural learning and people-to-people ties. “As Sikkim celebrates its Golden Jubilee of Statehood, this partnership is an invaluable opportunity to share and strengthen bonds of brotherhood across the North-East,” he said.
The Chief Minister also underlined the importance of collaboration among North-Eastern States, particularly in the tourism sector, and called for collective efforts to support each other as stakeholders, especially in view of World Tourism Day.
A 200-member delegation from Sikkim, comprising Self-Help Groups (SHGs), entrepreneurs, tour operators, bikers, and cultural artists, actively participated in the festival, engaging with their counterparts from Arunachal Pradesh. They explored exhibition stalls, admired art installations, attended workshops and enjoyed musical performances, reflecting the vibrant cultural exchange between the two States.
In a symbolic gesture of goodwill, the Chief Ministers Prem Singh Tamang and Pema Khandu exchanged flowers and mementos, reaffirming the spirit of friendship and partnership. The Chief Minister expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Minister Pema Khandu, the Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, and the festival organizers for their warm hospitality and for conferring this honour on Sikkim.
The official delegation from Sikkim comprised the Tourism Minister, Advisor-cum-MLA, Additional Chief Secretary (Tourism), senior Government officials, departmental heads and representatives from tourism, commerce, industries, and handicrafts, along with entrepreneurs and leading State enterprises.