PMINDIA

Known for Serenity and Enterprise, Sikkim Sees Rapid Progress :PM

One of the best things I noticed all along the way, was the cleanliness of Sikkim’s roads: PM

No garbage as far as the eye can see,cleanliness in the air too, cleanliness on the roads as well, the people of Sikkim, are true protectors of nature, its brand ambassadors: PM

We are placing maximum focus on connectivity and infrastructure in Sikkim; In recent years, hundreds of kilometers of highways have been constructed here, Work is progressing rapidly to connect every village with roads: PM

Another vast horizon of possibilities for Sikkim lies in sports;The youth here have showcased their capability and talent on grand stages: PM

Our government is committed to ensuring that alongside robust health infrastructure, people also receive affordable medical treatment: PM

Previously, we provided Ayushman cards to ensure free healthcare for the poor; Now, this facility is being extended to all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, medicines are available at highly affordable prices at Jan Aushadhi Kendras: PM

Sikkim’s model of organic and natural farming serves as an inspiration for the entire nation : PM

The lifestyle of Sikkim and Sikkim’s resolve have today become an integral part of the nation’s vision: PM

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today marked the closing ceremony of Sikkim’s 50th Year of Statehood celebrations with the launch and inauguration of over 30 development projects worth thousands of crores of rupees at a grand celebration in Gangtok, Sikkim.

Addressing the gathering at Paljor Stadium, the Prime Minister expressed his deep connection with the state. Describing his experience of visiting the orchid gardens, the Prime Minister stated that he was captivated by nature’s vibrant colors and exuberance. Highlighting the state’s natural treasures, he noted that the Eastern Paradise of Sikkim, known as the orchid garden, offered an unparalleled beauty, peace, and spiritual joy. “This experience comes only with great fortune. My mind is still immersed in those colors and their celebration,” remarked Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister emphasised the significance of celebrating Sikkim’s 50-year journey in a divine atmosphere. When an occasion is so historic and takes place in such a divine environment, its grandeur multiplies manifold. He remarked that the cultural programs, the mesmerizing performances by artists, the enthusiasm of the people, and the beautiful spectacle of mountains and sky created a magical ambience at Paljor Stadium. “It felt as if nature and culture had come alive together. These memories will remain in my heart forever,” observed Shri Modi.

Expressing his happiness at finally reaching Sikkim, the Prime Minister recalled his previous visit when bad weather had prevented him from reaching Gangtok and he had to connect online from Bagdogra. The disappointment of not meeting the people in person had stayed with him, and he had been waiting for this opportunity. “That wait has been fulfilled today through this occasion,” stated Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister spoke warmly about the unique experience of meeting Sikkim’s people, whose gentleness, simplicity, and smiling faces always bring him peace. Before the main event, he had met several talented people from Sikkim including eminent citizens, Padma awardees, artists, and footballers, engaging in discussions on various subjects. “Meeting the people of Sikkim always gives me a different kind of contentment,” remarked Shri Modi.

Recalling the previous evening’s roadshow in vivid detail, the Prime Minister described it as an unforgettable experience. From Ganju Lama Dwar to Lok Bhawan, the people of Sikkim poured out their love in overwhelming numbers, with 21 ethnic communities participating, each with their own attire, music, and traditions. The entire atmosphere had transformed into a grand festival. “The sight was like different colors blooming in the lap of nature, with our beloved tricolor in people’s hands and resonating chants of Bharat Mata Ki Jai and Vande Mataram; The entire atmosphere reflected the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.” noted Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister noted the presence of women, children, and elderly citizens who came in large numbers. Most impressively, what struck him throughout the route was the cleanliness of Sikkim’s roads, with no dirt visible anywhere, and purity in both air and roads. “You are nature’s steadfast protectors and brand ambassadors,” commended Shri Modi.

Expressing gratitude for the roadshow and the current celebration, the Prime Minister thanked all citizens and artists, while congratulating the people of Sikkim and all countrymen on this festival. Making a solemn commitment to the gathering, Shri Modi affirmed, “I assure you that I will leave no stone unturned in repaying this debt of your love, affection, and blessings.”

Describing Sikkim’s journey as a journey of human values and development alongside heritage, the Prime Minister acknowledged the efforts of multiple generations in advancing this journey. The state government is working with complete honesty to preserve Sikkim’s heritage and accelerate development. For the government, Sikkim and the Northeast are not just important parts of the country but represent India’s ‘Asht Lakshmi’. “That is why, while working on the ‘Act East’ policy, we have also taken the resolve of ‘Act Fast’ for the Northeast,” stated Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister highlighted that over 30 projects worth thousands of crores were inaugurated and had foundation stones laid today, covering roads, power, tourism, health, and education sectors. Special attention has been given to challenges faced in North Sikkim areas after 2023, particularly in restoring connectivity that was affected. “We have focused on strengthening connectivity wherever it was impacted,” highlighted Shri Modi.

Identifying tourism economy as Sikkim’s greatest strength, the Prime Minister noted that despite having less than one percent of India’s geographical area, Sikkim hosts over 25 percent of the country’s floral diversity, approximately 500 bird species, nearly 700 butterfly species, beautiful forest cover, and the magnificent Kanchenjunga. “With so much to offer, everyone wants to visit Sikkim again and again,” remarked Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister emphasised that tourism in Sikkim provides income to a large number of people, and tourism flourishes only when a state has excellent infrastructure. Hundreds of kilometers of highways have been constructed in recent years, and work is progressing rapidly to extend roads to every village. Modern infrastructure that was once unimaginable is now becoming reality. “That is why we are focusing most on Sikkim’s connectivity and infrastructure,” emphasised Shri Modi.

Highlighting major connectivity projects, the Prime Minister mentioned the Bagdogra-Gangtok expressway and the Sevok-Rangpo rail line as crucial links connecting Sikkim with the entire country. New national highways are being constructed, and essential future projects like ring roads in cities such as Gangtok are also progressing. “Work is advancing in this direction as well,” stated Shri Modi.

Taking the example of the Sevok-Rangpo rail line, which received approval in 2008-09 but remained stuck in files with no ground work, he noted that development regained momentum after the current government came to power at the Centre. “For the first time, railways are reaching Sikkim,” highlighted Shri Modi.

Emphasizing the need for new ideas to promote tourism, the Prime Minister highlighted the construction of ropeways at Bhaleydhunga, Yen-Yeng, and Pelling, along with a skywalk being constructed at Bhaleydhunga and preparations for a glass deck skywalk at Singshore Bridge as examples of innovative thinking. Work is also progressing to enhance border experiences at places like Nathula and Namli. “These efforts will make your lives easier, increase tourist numbers, boost your income, and create more employment opportunities,” assured Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister noted the vast scope for eco-wellness tourism in Sikkim, which the government is actively promoting. To ensure maximum tourism income for local people, 1,000 homestays are being built, and infrastructure for adventure tourism is being supported. “We are creating opportunities for local communities to benefit directly from tourism,” remarked Shri Modi.

Highlighting sports as another avenue of immense potential for Sikkim, the Prime Minister praised the youth who have proven their capability and talent on major platforms in football, boxing, and archery, bringing glory to both the state and the nation. “Your young talents have made Sikkim and India proud,” affirmed Shri Modi.

Emphasizing the need to nurture Sikkim’s exceptional sporting talent that has already brought glory to the state and nation, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s multi-pronged approach through ‘Khelo India’ and ‘Fit India’ movements. With the rejuvenation of the State Sports Academy and promotion of events like the Sikkim Premier League alongside upcoming projects including a state-of-the-art boxing academy named after Jas Lal Pradhan and integrated sports and cultural villages, the state is poised to provide world-class sporting infrastructure. “These will provide better facilities to Sikkim’s youth and help them shine even brighter in their sports,” remarked Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister noted that the projects inaugurated today include several major works related to the health sector. Recalling a time when there were very limited health services that even deterred tourists from visiting, he highlighted the transformation that has taken place. “Today, that challenge is also ending,” stated Shri Modi.

Detailing the healthcare infrastructure, the Prime Minister mentioned that approximately 200 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are currently functioning in Sikkim, along with four district hospitals, tertiary care hospitals, and wellness centers where thousands of people are benefiting from AYUSH facilities. “With the inauguration of the Drejong Namgyal Sowa Rigpa Hospital, Sikkim’s healthcare system will receive an additional boost,” affirmed Shri Modi.

Emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing affordable treatment alongside health infrastructure, the Prime Minister highlighted various initiatives. Initially, Ayushman cards were provided to the poor for free treatment, and now this facility has been extended to all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, while medicines are available at very affordable rates at Jan Aushadhi Kendras. “These efforts have not only made your lives easier but have also reduced your medical expenses,” said Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister observed that the world’s perspective on economic progress and resources is changing rapidly, with global focus now on sustainable lifestyles, clean energy, and organic foods. He expressed happiness that the Northeast and Sikkim are major centers of this futuristic growth, noting that Sikkim has shown direction to the entire country. “Sikkim declared itself a fully organic state in 2016, setting an example for the nation,” remarked Shri Modi.

Praising Sikkim’s pioneering efforts in organic farming, the Prime Minister noted that Demajong is now known not just for rice production but for organic rice. Large cardamom, ginger, turmeric, avocado, and kiwi are reaching national and international markets, while hundreds of species of medicinal plants are becoming sources of income for local people. PM Modi noted that an organic processing plant has been established to promote natural farming, providing farmers with direct market access. “Sikkim’s organic and natural farming model is an inspiration for the entire country. Your lifestyle and resolve have become part of the nation’s vision,” stated Shri Modi.

Acknowledging the significant role of self-help groups and women in Sikkim’s economic progress, the Prime Minister highlighted how Digital India is playing a major role in helping their products reach larger markets. “Platforms like ‘Swayam Sikkim’ are empowering these women today,” remarked Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister noted Sikkim’s vast potential in clean energy, which must be utilized while preserving the environment. Acknowledging that environmental conservation is in the nature of Sikkim’s people, he praised their participation in the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative and the locally-run ‘Mero Rukh Mero Santati’ initiative, under which 108 trees are planted at every child’s birth. “I believe this initiative is an inspiration for the entire world,” said Shri Modi.

Calling upon everyone to continue environmental efforts with the same dedication, the Prime Minister described this as a heritage that must be preserved for the next generation. “This is our legacy that we must protect for future generations,” stressed Shri Modi.

Concluding his address, the Prime Minister called for collective effort to accelerate Sikkim’s development and contribute to the dream of Viksit Bharat. Expressing his commitment to taking Sikkim to new heights with this resolve, he congratulated everyone once again on this occasion. “I wish all of you bright futures and continued prosperity,” concluded Shri Modi.