Press Release

Press Release from Urban Development Department

Information & Public Relations Department

Date: 09-Nov-2025
Sikkim Participates in National Urban Conclave 2025 at New Delhi
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Government of India, organized the National Urban Conclave 2025 at Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, New Delhi on the theme “Sustainable Urban Development and Governance” on 7th–8th November 2025.
The Sikkim delegation was led by Shri Bhoj Raj Rai, Hon’ble Minister, Urban Development Department, Government of Sikkim. The Conclave brought together Ministers, senior officials, and experts from across the country to deliberate on innovative approaches for sustainable urban growth, inclusive governance, and resilient infrastructure. Also, present was Shri Jitendra Singh Raje, Commissioner cum Secretary, Urban Development Department and other officers from the Department.
Hon’ble Minister Shri Bhoj Raj Rai chaired two significant breakout sessions — one on Urban Livelihoods, focusing on strengthening employment and entrepreneurship opportunities in urban areas, and another on the Circular Economy, emphasizing sustainable waste management and resource efficiency.
Shri Rai, in his address, informed the gathering about the various initiatives taken by the State Government for the urban poor. He also spoke about the efforts made by the urban local bodies in managing the municipal waste in Sikkim.
The sessions witnessed engaging discussions on models for promoting local livelihoods, capacity building of urban local bodies, and strategies for transitioning towards circular, low-waste urban systems. The participation of the Sikkim team reflected the State’s commitment towards advancing sustainable and inclusive urban development.
During the Conclave, the Ministry also announced the creation of Hill and Himalayan Cities Funds in view of the challenges faced by the region in waste management, particularly in the urban sector.
The Conclave concluded with a shared vision to further strengthen collaboration between the Centre and States for achieving sustainable, resilient, and citizen-centric urban growth across India.