SIKKIM RAJ BHAWAN TO WELCOME VISITORS

Raj Bhawan situated on 200 acres at 6000ft has been declared a heritage property. A witness to British India’s relation with Sikkim and Tibet that is inked in many government agreements and treaties over its 200 year history , the residency symbolizes the institutional expression of British India's consistent attempt and single – minded policy to find a place in the geo- strategic region . It was primarily aimed at gaining access to Tibet , China and the Jelep La Pass , and establishment of a consulate office in Lhasa. The British were clear about their objectives even prior to the appointment of the first political officer in 1888 and had taken several initiatives in this regard.

The rule of Chogyal ( meaning protection of righteousness as dharma ) was established with the help of Mahayana Buddhist Lama of Tibet in 1642 at Yuksom in West Sikkim . It also had the full support of authorities in Tibet. Governor VB Rao decided in 2006 to renovate the structure, which had been damaged in an earth- quake, at a cost of Rs 15.14 crore without undermining its archeological value. Aspacious garden and bio- diversity park with varieties of orchids, flowers, rare medicinal plants, and a tea garden on the premises are also being developed.

Now , Raj Bhavan authorities have decided to throw open the gates to the Raj Bhavan complex by this year end on every Sunday to students , local residents and tourists at a modest entry fee. The proceeds would go to the employees welfare fund, which has been set up and utilisad for education of the permanent employees children.

The building housed a large number of  British politicians and officers from 1888 – 1947. It passed on to the Indian politicians who established their residences and offices here till May 1975, when the people of Sikkim decided to merge into India as the country’s 22nd state Since then it has been converted into the Governor’s place.

The British during the reign of the 7th Chogyal Tshudphed Namgyal ( 1785 – 1863) put tremendous pressure on Sikkim and succeeded in securing Darjeeling Hills at a paltry annual rent of Rs 5000 in 1841 and subsequently, annexed the areas of the Doorars and Kalimpong in 1864 and the adjoining Kurseong in 1891. The entire area consists of the Darjeeling Hill district of West Bengal.

COURTESY : THE TIMES OF INDIA