Gangtok (Sikkim) [India], May 29: Marking 50 years of Sikkim’s integration as a full-fledged state of the Indian Union, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a landmark address via videoconference during the Sikkim@50 celebrations, under the theme “Where Progress Meets Purpose, and Nature Nurtures Growth”, the Prime Minister presented a comprehensive sikkim-development-vision future as a global beacon of organic development, sustainable tourism, and youth-driven excellence.
“Sikkim is the pride of the country,” declared PM Modi, “and we dream of it becoming a Green Model State for the world.”
01 A Decade of Renewed Focus on the Northeast
The Prime Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to balanced national growth, with a focus on placing the Northeast at the heart of India’s development strategy. “Since 2014, we have advanced the ‘Act East’ policy with the spirit of ‘Act Fast’,” he said, highlighting strategic investments in infrastructure, connectivity, and healthcare across the region.
02 Foundations of a Future-Ready Sikkim | sikkim-development-vision
As part of the sikkim-development-vision, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for multiple projects, including healthcare facilities, a new convention centre, and tourism infrastructure. These initiatives aim to convert Sikkim into a wellness and conference tourism hub, positioning it for international recognition.
Significant connectivity upgrades were also unveiled, such as the Bagdogra-Gangtok Expressway and the Sevoke-Rangpo rail line. “Nearly 400 kilometres of national highways and major ropeway projects have transformed accessibility,” noted Modi.
03 Organic Growth and Global Export
Sikkim’s status as India’s only 100% organic state was spotlighted. PM Modi praised his farmers for advancing agricultural innovation and export readiness. Recent milestones include the international export of the iconic Dalle Khursani chilli and the announcement of the country’s first organic fisheries cluster in Soreng.
“With this, Sikkim will also be recognised globally for organic fishing,” said the Prime Minister, emphasising the rising global demand for organic aquaculture.
04 Empowerment Through Healthcare | sikkim-development-vision
PM Modi announced a new 500-bed hospital in Sikkim to bolster access to high-quality healthcare. He highlighted the achievements of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, noting that over 25,000 people in Sikkim have received free treatment. Moreover, he declared that all Indian citizens above 70 are now eligible for free medical care up to ₹5 lakh.
05 Youth, Sports, and Strategic Preparedness
Asserting that the Yuva Shakti of Sikkim will shape India’s rise as a sports superpower, the Prime Minister emphasised the region’s athletic legacy. He cited celebrated figures like Bhaichung Bhutia and Tarundeep Rai. He pointed to the construction of a new sports complex under the Khelo India scheme as a training ground for future champions.
“Sports should not just be about participation, but about winning with determination,” he stressed, affirming investment in talent identification, training, and international exposure.
06 Green Model State: A Global Prototype
The cornerstone of the sikkim-development-vision is sustainability. PM Modi articulated his dream of Sikkim becoming the world’s leading Green Model State, with key goals including:
- 100% solar-powered households
- Expansion of agro and tourism startups
- Digital payment inclusion
- Waste-to-wealth innovations
“Sikkim must not only serve local needs but prepare its youth for global opportunities,” he urged.
Addressing the Sikkim@50 celebrations. Known for its serenity and enterprising people, the state has made remarkable strides across various sectors. https://t.co/Q8Pz9VIu61
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 29, 2025
07 Cultural and Tourism Renaissance
Recognising Sikkim’s unmatched natural and spiritual beauty, the Prime Minister called for a repositioning of the state as a global tourism destination. He mentioned Kanchenjunga National Park as a UNESCO World Heritage site of immense pride and promised to make Sikkim a hub for adventure, wellness, and concert tourism.
New developments such as the Golden Jubilee Skywalk and Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s statue signify both cultural reverence and future ambition.
08 Connectivity and Infrastructure at the Core
From roads to ropeways, the government is working to integrate Sikkim into India’s logistics grid fully. Projects like the Atal Setu, new village roads, and the upcoming extension of the Gorakhpur-Siliguri Expressway promise to bridge geographic divides that once hindered progress.
09 National Security and Unity | sikkim-development-vision
In a significant remark, PM Modi addressed recent acts of terrorism, including the attack in Pahalgam, as an assault on Indian unity. He referenced Operation Sindoor, India’s swift and strategic response, highlighting the government’s unwavering stand against terrorism.
“India’s unity is its strength. Let this be a message to all who threaten our peace,” he declared.
10 Looking Ahead to Sikkim@75 in 2047
The Prime Minister concluded with a call for a forward-looking vision. As India approaches 100 years of independence and Sikkim marks 75 years of statehood in 2027, he urged collective planning and execution to realise the full potential of the sikkim-development-vision.
“With discipline, focus, trust, clarity, consistency, and positivity, the next 25 years will see Sikkim rise to global prominence,” he stated.
