Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Sikkim@50 celebrations to mark 50 glorious years of Sikkim’s Statehood, highlighting the region’s journey of progress, cultural preservation, and environmental harmony. The event was themed “Sunaulo, Samriddha and Samarth Sikkim” (Golden, Prosperous, and Capable Sikkim) and sets the stage for a year-long series of events across the state.
Sikkim@50: A Celebration of Identity and Growth
The Government of Sikkim has organized a year of commemorative activities under the banner “Sunaulo, Samriddha and Samarth Sikkim.” The celebrations aim to showcase the state’s cultural richness, traditional heritage, natural beauty, and transformational development since its integration into the Indian Union in 1975.
Prime Minister Modi, during his address, acknowledged Sikkim’s unique contribution to India’s unity, biodiversity, and sustainable development model. He praised the state’s consistent efforts in maintaining a balance between economic progress and ecological preservation.
Major Development Projects Launched
During his visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple major development projects designed to enhance healthcare, tourism, and infrastructure in the region.
Key Projects Include:
- A 500-Bedded District Hospital in Namchi
- Estimated cost: Over ₹750 crore
- This new medical facility is expected to significantly boost healthcare access in South Sikkim.
- Passenger Ropeway at Sangachoeling, Pelling (Gyalshing District)
- This project aims to enhance tourism infrastructure by providing safe and scenic transport to pilgrimage and tourist sites.
- Statue of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Atal Amrit Udyan, Sangkhola (Gangtok District)
- The statue honors the legacy of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, reinforcing his contributions to national development and regional harmony.
These projects symbolize the government’s commitment to holistic regional development, particularly in states with rich cultural and ecological landscapes like Sikkim.
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Commemorative Releases to Mark Statehood
As part of the Sikkim@50 celebrations, the Prime Minister released a set of commemorative items:
- A 50-Year Statehood Commemorative Coin
- A Souvenir Coin
- A Special Postage Stamp
These releases celebrate Sikkim’s journey from accession to becoming a symbol of sustainable development, environmental conservation, and vibrant cultural identity within the Indian federation.
Honoring the Spirit of Sikkim
The Prime Minister lauded the state for becoming a national leader in organic farming, biodiversity conservation, and eco-tourism. He acknowledged the people of Sikkim for their active participation in democratic governance and for building a model of development that aligns with India’s larger vision of “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
Sikkim’s unique blend of cultural inclusiveness, modern infrastructure, and environmental consciousness has made it a model for other Himalayan and northeastern states to emulate.
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Conclusion
The Sikkim@50 celebration is more than just a milestone — it reflects five decades of unity, progress, and sustainable development. Prime Minister Modi’s participation and the launch of key development initiatives reaffirm the Centre’s commitment to the all-round growth of India’s northeastern states. As the state embarks on its golden jubilee year, the fusion of tradition and modernity remains at the core of its forward march.