Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday underscored the transformative role of infrastructure development in Sikkim, citing major improvements in road and rail connectivity as key drivers of the state’s progress over the past decade.
Speaking via videoconference at the Sikkim@50 celebration held at Palzor Stadium in Gangtok, PM Modi recalled the challenges once faced by the people of Sikkim in accessing education, healthcare, and employment due to poor connectivity. He noted that a concerted focus on infrastructure has led to dramatic change.
“In Sikkim alone, nearly 400 kilometres of new national highways have been built, along with over 100 kilometres of rural roads. The Atal Setu has significantly boosted connectivity between Sikkim and Darjeeling,” the Prime Minister said.
Due to weather-related disruptions, PM Modi addressed the event virtually from Bagdogra in West Bengal, where he also laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects in Sikkim.
The Prime Minister emphasized that connectivity is the single biggest reason behind Sikkim’s ongoing transformation. Among the highlights:
- Rapid progress on the Sikkim-Kalimpong road link
- Improved access via the Bagdogra-Gangtok Motorway, soon to be connected to the Gorakhpur-Siliguri Motorway
- Extension of the national rail network to include Sikkim through the Sevoke-Rangpo rail line
- Ropeway infrastructure in areas where road construction is not feasible
PM Modi reiterated the Centre’s commitment to the ‘Act East’ policy, describing the government’s approach as “Act Fast” to fast-track development in the Northeast.
He also encouraged viewing Sikkim as more than a hill station, calling it a “complete tourism package” with immense potential for adventure, wellness, and sports tourism.
“Sikkim has already produced legends like Bhaichung Bhutia, Olympian Tarundeep Rai, and Jaslal Pradhan. The youth of this region will play a key role in India’s journey to becoming a global sports superpower,” he said.
Development projects unveiled included:
- A 500-bedded district hospital in Namchi (worth ₹750 crore)
- A passenger ropeway in Sangachoeling, Pelling
- A statue of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Atal Amrit Udyan in Sangkhola
- The release of a commemorative coin, souvenir coin, and stamp marking 50 years of Sikkim’s statehood
The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming the central government’s commitment to making Sikkim a model of integrated development, infrastructure growth, and tourism excellence.