Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday stated that the central government has placed the highest priority on improving connectivity and infrastructure in Sikkim. Addressing the closing ceremony of the state’s 50th Year of Statehood celebrations at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, the Prime Minister described Sikkim as the heaven of the East. Modi highlighted the state’s immense tourism potential and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to fully developing these opportunities for the benefit of its people. He also noted that Sikkim’s success in organic and natural farming has become a model for the entire country.
During the event, Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple development projects worth Rs 4,000 crore, along with six cricket academies across the Northeast. The Prime Minister emphasized the central government’s dedication to providing affordable healthcare, mentioning that free Ayushman cards are being distributed to the poor and to citizens aged 70 and above under the Ayushman Bharat initiative. Praising the youth of Sikkim, he said they have demonstrated their talent on larger platforms in sports such as football, boxing, and archery. He said that initiatives like Khelo India and the Fit India Movement are providing opportunities for young people to develop their abilities.
Encouraging citizens across the country to visit Sikkim, the Prime Minister urged them to buy local products, reinforcing the spirit of the Vocal for Local initiative. He also commended the people of Sikkim for maintaining exceptional cleanliness. Referring to the Northeast as the “Ashtalakshmi” of the nation, Modi said that ongoing and upcoming projects would significantly transform the lives of people in the region.
A vibrant cultural performance titled “1000 Steps of Unity,” featuring over 1,500 artists, showcased the rich art and culture of the country. The Prime Minister praised the performance as a true reflection of the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.” Governor of Sikkim Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, state ministers, and Members of Parliament also attended the event. Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister played football with local youth and visited the Orchidarium at Ridge Park in Gangtok.