Sikkim MP seeks reopening of Nathula Trade

BJP leader from Sikkim, Dorjee Tshering Lepcha, on Wednesday appealed to the Centre to urgently resume border trade through the Nathula Pass, which has remained suspended since 2020, and to extend economic relief to the border communities whose livelihoods have been severely hit by the prolonged closure.

Raising the issue during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha, Lepcha said the halt in cross-border commerce has deeply impacted traditional traders, transporters, porters and residents in the Himalayan border belt who have historically depended on trade with China. “The Nathula border trade is a vital economic lifeline for the people of Sikkim and an important confidence-building measure between the two nations,” he said.

The trade route was shut in 2020 following the deterioration in India-China relations after the Galwan Valley clash in eastern Ladakh, where soldiers from both sides were killed in a violent confrontation. The incident led to heightened military tensions along the Line of Actual Control, prompting India to restrict various border interactions, including trade through Nathula. COVID-19-related restrictions during the same period further contributed to the suspension.

Lepcha noted reports suggesting that India and China have recently held discussions and reached an understanding in principle on reopening trade routes, including Nathula Pass. However, he pointed out that no official announcement or timeline has been issued so far. He sought clarity on whether the government has taken a final decision and when trading activities are likely to resume.

The Sikkim MP also asked whether the Centre would provide special preference or quotas for traditional border-area traders and registered traders from Sikkim once trade restarts. He further questioned the government on the steps being taken to support affected populations such as financial assistance, infrastructure development, simplified customs processes and improved transport facilities.

“The people living around Nathula have been waiting for a clear direction from the government. This concerns the economic survival of border communities, national security considerations and regional stability,” Lepcha said, urging the Centre to issue a concrete policy framework for reopening the trade route.