The Sikkim culture department has appealed to the people of the state to donate various items of historical importance like documents, photographs and artefacts to the Sikkim State Museum being set up at Gangtok.

D. P. Rai, the additional director (state archives) of the culture department, said the museum was a prestigious project of the state government aimed at showcasing the Himalayan state’s enduring history, distinct culture and rich heritage.

“Once established, this museum will be a premier destination for scholars and discerning members of the society, including visiting tourists,” he said.

The museum is being constructed on the site of the old Assembly building near Bhanu Park below Tanshi Namgyal Academy (TNA) and walking distance from MG Marg, Gangtok’s main promenade popular with tourists.

“Construction of the main building has been completed. Interior works are going on now. It should take about a year for the museum to be opened,” said an official of the department.

Rai, in his appeal, sought the cooperation of the citizens in establishing the museum to preserve and promote the cultural uniqueness of Sikkim, which was an independent kingdom before its merger with India in 1975.

“The culture department would like to appeal to everyone to extend all possible support by donating old photographs, documents and objects of historical importance for displaying in the State Museum,” he said.

The department said all donors of items on display in the museum would be given due credit.

“Further, if desired, full ownerships of the artefacts may be retained by the donors themselves,” it said.