PM Narendra Modi spent a lively morning in Gangtok on Tuesday, joining local youngsters for a friendly football session. He described the experience as refreshing and energising, sharing glimpses of the interaction on the social media platform X.

In his post, the Prime Minister remarked that playing football with young companions made for a delightful start to the day. He added that the session with the youth proved invigorating.

Football holds deep cultural significance across the northeastern region, particularly in Sikkim, Mizoram, Manipur, and Meghalaya, where it often rivals cricket in popularity.

Despite accounting for a small share of India's population, northeastern states consistently produce a substantial proportion of players in top leagues, including the Indian Super League.

Earlier, the Prime Minister interacted with Padma awardees and distinguished individuals from diverse sectors.

PM Modi described the exchange as insightful, noting that discussions covered development, culture, innovation, education, and youth opportunities.

Participants included social workers, artists, academicians, and sportspersons who shared their experiences and perspectives. His visit coincides with the 50th anniversary celebrations of Sikkim's statehood.

On Monday, the Prime Minister conducted a two-kilometre roadshow, drawing enthusiastic crowds across the city.

Later in the day, the Prime Minister will visit the Orchidarium in Gangtok and attend the concluding ceremony at Paljor Stadium. He will inaugurate and lay the foundation for projects spanning infrastructure, healthcare, education, connectivity, and tourism.

Key initiatives include a 100-bed Ayurveda hospital in Yangang, a Sowa Rigpa hospital at NIT Deorali, and multiple educational institutions, as well as IT-enabled upgrades across 160 schools.