Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang announced plans to host international pop icon Ed Sheeran for a concert on the state’s 50th Statehood Day, ensuring that the event will be funded entirely through ticket sales and sponsorships, without using government funds. Speaking at the Namprikdang Namsoong Festival in Upper Dzongu on January 12, the Chief Minister emphasized the concert’s potential to boost tourism. “People from across the country will visit Sikkim, stay in our hotels and homestays, and explore our unique culture, significantly benefiting our tourism industry,” he said.
Tamang urged the public to avoid politicizing the event, focusing instead on its role in enhancing Sikkim’s global profile. He also shared plans for the Golden Jubilee celebrations on May 16, 2025, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to attend as the chief guest.
The celebrations will feature infrastructure projects, cultural showcases, and sports programs to reflect Sikkim’s cultural pride and vision. Tamang highlighted Sikkim’s distinct approach to festivals, stating, “In Sikkim, we celebrate Independence Day for at least a month. As a small state, we are ahead in many aspects.”