Nathula, Aug. 1 -- Sikkim Commerce and Industries Minister TT Bhutia on Saturday welcomed the resumption of border trade through the Nathula Pass after a gap of six years, saying it would provide a major economic boost to border communities, local entrepreneurs and traders.

Speaking to reporters at Nathula along the Indo-China border, Bhutia said the reopening of trade follows improving connectivity between the two countries, including the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Sikkim last year.

"After six years, we have resumed border trade. Regarding Indo-China, we have had a good connection since last year's Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which started from Sikkim. Now, the Nathula border trade has also become possible," Bhuti...