Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually greets during the ‘Sikkim@50’ programme, marking the 50th anniversary of the statehood of Sikkim, in Bagdogra on May 29, 2025. Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur and State Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang are also present
| Photo Credit: ANI
GUWAHATI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (May 29, 2025) said he envisions a “golden” Sikkim emerging as a global hub for tourism and a powerhouse in sports. The remarks were made as the State marked 50 years since its accession to the Indian Union in 1975.
Addressing the Golden Jubilee celebrations virtually from Bagdogra in neighbouring West Bengal—after inclement weather prevented his arrival at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok—the Prime Minister praised the people of Sikkim for their democratic decision to integrate with India. “Sikkim chose a democratic future and became not just geographically but emotionally a part of India’s soul,” Mr. Modi said, referring to the 1975 referendum in which 97% of voters supported the move.
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Highlighting the State’s trajectory over the past five decades, Mr. Modi described Sikkim as a “model of development with nature”, citing its high per-capita income, 100% organic farming practices, and commitment to environmental sustainability. “The State has become a big garden of biodiversity and a symbol of conservation of culture and heritage that enriches India’s soul,” he said, crediting the people of Sikkim for these achievements.
The Prime Minister said that investment commitments from major industrialists in the northeast would generate employment opportunities, including in Sikkim. He also noted that improved connectivity had transformed the region in the past decade. “The distance from Delhi was once a barrier in the path of development, but now new doors of development are opening for the region,” he said. Mr. Modi added that where road construction is not feasible due to terrain, the Centre would facilitate passenger ropeways to improve accessibility.
Among the infrastructure projects inaugurated or launched during the event was the Pelling Ropeway. “Today’s programme is a glimpse of Sikkim’s journey to the future, which is becoming a bright chapter in the saga of new India,” the Prime Minister said, noting that the new initiatives focused on tourism, healthcare, culture, and sports.
He also announced that Soreng district would be developed as India’s first organic fishery cluster. “The time has come for Sikkim to be more than a hill station,” Mr. Modi said. “Sikkim has no competition in becoming a global tourism hub because it is a complete package of tourism offering nature, spiritualism, and peace under the shadow of the Buddhist monasteries.”
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, addressing the gathering, invited the Prime Minister to visit the State in person during the year-long golden jubilee celebrations. “We hope you can make it in October or November when the weather is good,” he said.
On the occasion, Governor Om Prakash Mathur and Mr. Tamang released commemorative items including a ₹50 postage stamp to mark the 50th anniversary of Sikkim’s statehood.
Published – May 29, 2025 04:00 pm IST