Sikkim marked 50 years of statehood with a vibrant celebration at Paljor Stadium, commemorating five decades of remarkable progress and envisioning a bright future. The event was graced by Governor Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, and other dignitaries. The day began with a ceremonial parade featuring contingents from the Sikkim Armed Police, Infantry Regiments, and Forest and Home Guards. The Governor and Chief Minister received full honors amid enthusiastic cheers from the crowd. Key highlights included the lighting of butter lamps and offerings to the portrait of revered leader L.D. Kazi, symbolizing respect for Sikkim’s heritage. The “Run for Unity,” led by marathoner Shanti Ram Nepal, concluded with a group photograph alongside top officials.
Several significant initiatives were launched, such as the “Sikkim Today: Festivals of Sikkim” magazine, new AR games, the “Visit Sikkim” mobile app promoting tourism, and a mental health and suicide prevention strategy. The Sikkim Milk Union introduced new dairy products, while the Forest Department, in partnership with WWF-India, released a report on the snow leopard population. Chief Minister Tamang highlighted Sikkim’s journey from monarchy to a democratic state, praising achievements like the highest per capita income in India and status as the nation’s first fully organic state. He also thanked the Government of India for supporting Sikkim’s constitutional protections.
Governor Mathur lauded Sikkim’s progress and called for continued unity toward a prosperous and culturally rich future. The celebrations featured lively cultural performances, a documentary screening, and concluded with the Sikkim Premier League Football Tournament and a spectacular drone show illuminating the night sky.