Nathu La border trade and Kailash Mansarovar Yatra reinforce Sikkim as a Corridor of Friendship between India and China: MP Lok Sabha Indra Hang Subba
New Delhi:2nd Aug: Sikkim’s lone MP Lok Sabha Dr Indra Hang Subba,has described the resumption of border trade via Nathula as a significant moment. MP has said. ‘I warmly welcome the resumption of the historic Nathu La border trade between India and China on 1st August 2026 after a gap of six years. This is a proud and significant moment not only for the people of Sikkim but also for the entire nation. The reopening of this ancient trade route revives a centuries-old tradition of commerce, cultural exchange and friendship across the Himalayas’.
MP Subba,has expressed sincere ‘gratitude to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for their continued support and commitment in facilitating the resumption of border trade through Nathu La. And he has also extended heartfelt appreciation to the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, whose proactive efforts and consistent advocacy played an important role in ensuring the revival of this historic trade route.’
‘The reopening of Nathu La is much more than the resumption of trade. It opens new economic opportunities for the people of Sikkim by supporting traders, transporters, entrepreneurs, local businesses and tourism-related sectors. It will strengthen livelihoods, generate employment and contribute to the overall growth of our State while encouraging the promotion of local products,’ added Subba.
‘Beyond Sikkim, the revival of border trade also carries great diplomatic significance. Trade and people-to-people exchanges have always played an important role in building trust and understanding between neighbouring countries. I believe that the reopening of Nathu La will further strengthen bilateral ties between India and China through peaceful engagement, economic cooperation and cultural interaction’,said MP Subba,further
‘The simultaneous revival of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra this year through Nathu La further enhances Sikkim’s strategic and cultural importance. Around 500 pilgrims from across India, in ten groups, respectively,have started and some are scheduled to undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through the Nathu La route this year. The sixth batch of Yatris completed their pilgrimage and returned to Gangtok on 30th July.’
‘Together, border trade and the pilgrimage route through Nathu La reinforce Sikkim’s position as an important border State and a vital corridor of friendship connecting the two great neighbours, India and China. They also showcase Sikkim as a gateway for trade, tourism, spiritual travel and cultural exchange.’
MP IH Subba said , ‘As we celebrate this important milestone, let us work together to ensure that the benefits of border trade reach our local communities, especially the people living in our border areas. At the same time, we must protect the fragile Himalayan environment and pursue sustainable development’.
‘I am confident that the resumption of Nathu La border trade will usher in a new era of prosperity, cooperation and progress for Sikkim and the nation, ‘ MP said finally.
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