On the golden jubilee of Sikkim’s statehood, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday lauded the Himalayan state’s impressive development and rich cultural heritage, calling it a “model of progress where nature nurtures growth.” Though inclement weather prevented him from reaching Gangtok in person, the Prime Minister addressed the commemorative event “Sikkim@50: Where Progress Meets Purpose and Nature Nurtures Growth” virtually from Bagdogra, West Bengal.
Apologizing for his absence, PM Modi expressed his admiration for Sikkim’s transformation since joining the Indian Union in 1975. “Fifty years ago, Sikkim chose a democratic future—not just to be part of India geographically, but spiritually. And in these five decades, it has vindicated that decision by emerging as a vibrant contributor to the Indian story,” he said.
Highlighting Sikkim’s remarkable achievements, PM Modi praised its leadership in sustainable development. “From becoming 100% organic to conserving biodiversity and promoting eco-tourism, Sikkim has become a symbol of how cultural richness and environmental consciousness can go hand in hand,” he stated.
He emphasized that Sikkim now ranks among India’s top states in per capita income, reflecting the dedication and capabilities of its people. “Such stars have emerged from Sikkim who have illuminated India’s sky,” he added, saluting the contributions of Sikkimese citizens to the nation’s growth.
Reflecting on his government’s commitment to inclusive growth since 2014, PM Modi said, “Balanced development is essential for a developed India. In the last decade, our ‘Act East’ policy has put the Northeast, including Sikkim, at the heart of India’s development agenda.”
He cited examples of infrastructural progress in the state, including nearly 400 km of new national highways and improved rural road networks. Projects such as the Atal Setu have significantly enhanced regional connectivity, particularly between Sikkim and Darjeeling, he noted.
Virtually inaugurating and laying the foundation stones for multiple key projects, the Prime Minister announced:
- A 500-bed district hospital in Namchi (Rs 750 crore)
- A passenger ropeway at Sangachoeling in Gyalshing district
- A statue of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Atal Amrit Udyan in Gangtok
Commemorative items marking the golden jubilee—including a coin, a souvenir coin, and a postal stamp—were also released by Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang in PM Modi’s virtual presence.
CM Tamang warmly welcomed the Prime Minister and extended an invitation to him to personally join the continuing year-long celebrations. “Even though you couldn’t be with us physically today, your leadership has always inspired the people of Sikkim,” Tamang said.
Echoing national pride, he also praised the Central government’s firm stance against terrorism and its efforts to elevate India’s global standing through strategic operations and strong leadership.
As part of his multi-state tour, PM Modi will visit West Bengal, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh on May 29–30 to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones of development projects worth over ₹70,000 crore.
“Where once the distance from Delhi was a wall in the path of development, now new doors of opportunity are opening,” Modi concluded, celebrating Sikkim’s transformation as a shining example of new India’s promise.
