Gangtok, May 15: Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya Scindia, on Friday visited the iconic Temi Tea Garden in Sikkim’s Namchi district, interacting with tea workers and appreciating their role in preserving the state’s globally acclaimed tea heritage.

On the second day of his official visit to Sikkim, Scindia walked through the lush plantations of Temi, the state’s only tea estate, and joined workers in plucking tea leaves. Carrying the traditional bamboo basket used by tea pluckers, the Union Minister participated in the harvesting process, highlighting the importance of organic cultivation and disciplined agricultural practices.

Sharing his experience on social media, Scindia wrote: “Tea at its most elemental and most extraordinary! Temi is Sikkim’s only tea estate, perched high in the Himalayas with Kanchenjunga as its eternal witness, certified organic and recognised in the finest tea houses across the world. This is PM Modi ji’s vision of ‘Vocal for Local’ as a living, breathing reality manifest in every leaf.”

During his interaction, Scindia praised the workers’ dedication, precision, and skill in tea plucking, noting that their craft reflected years of discipline and hard work. Officials accompanying him said the Minister expressed admiration for the workers’ speed and expertise, acknowledging their role in sustaining the legacy of Temi tea, which enjoys international recognition for its quality and organic cultivation.

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Adding a personal touch, Scindia conversed fluently in Nepalese with the tea workers, drawing warm responses and smiles from the local community. His interaction in the local language created an atmosphere of familiarity and connection across the plantation.

The visit underscored the Centre’s continued focus on promoting the North Eastern region’s unique agricultural and cultural assets. Temi Tea Garden, located in Namchi district, is renowned for producing premium quality organic tea and remains a prominent tourist attraction in Sikkim.

Scindia’s engagement at Temi highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening local industries and showcasing them as part of India’s global identity under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative.