TTT NEWS NETWORK
NEW DELHI | 28 APRIL 2026
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today marked the closing ceremony of Sikkim’s 50th Year of Statehood celebrations with the launch and inauguration of over 30 development projects worth thousands of crores of rupees at a grand celebration in Gangtok, Sikkim.
Addressing the gathering at Paljor Stadium, the Prime Minister expressed his deep connection with the state. Describing his experience of visiting the orchid gardens, the Prime Minister stated that he was captivated by nature’s vibrant colors and exuberance. Highlighting the state’s natural treasures, he noted that the Eastern Paradise of Sikkim, known as the orchid garden, offered an unparalleled beauty, peace, and spiritual joy. “This experience comes only with great fortune. My mind is still immersed in those colors and their celebration,” remarked Shri Modi.
The Prime Minister emphasised the significance of celebrating Sikkim’s 50-year journey in a divine atmosphere. When an occasion is so historic and takes place in such a divine environment, its grandeur multiplies manifold. He remarked that the cultural programs, the mesmerizing performances by artists, the enthusiasm of the people, and the beautiful spectacle of mountains and sky created a magical ambience at Paljor Stadium. “It felt as if nature and culture had come alive together. These memories will remain in my heart forever,” observed Shri Modi.
Recalling the previous evening’s roadshow in vivid detail, the Prime Minister described it as an unforgettable experience. From Ganju Lama Dwar to Lok Bhawan, the people of Sikkim poured out their love in overwhelming numbers, with 21 ethnic communities participating, each with their own attire, music, and traditions. The entire atmosphere had transformed into a grand festival. “The sight was like different colors blooming in the lap of nature, with our beloved tricolor in people’s hands and resonating chants of Bharat Mata Ki Jai and Vande Mataram; The entire atmosphere reflected the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.” noted Shri Modi.
The Prime Minister noted the presence of women, children, and elderly citizens who came in large numbers. Most impressively, what struck him throughout the route was the cleanliness of Sikkim’s roads, with no dirt visible anywhere, and purity in both air and roads. “You are nature’s steadfast protectors and brand ambassadors,” commended Shri Modi.
Expressing gratitude for the roadshow and the current celebration, the Prime Minister thanked all citizens and artists, while congratulating the people of Sikkim and all countrymen on this festival. Making a solemn commitment to the gathering, Shri Modi affirmed, “I assure you that I will leave no stone unturned in repaying this debt of your love, affection, and blessings.”
Describing Sikkim’s journey as a journey of human values and development alongside heritage, the Prime Minister acknowledged the efforts of multiple generations in advancing this journey. The state government is working with complete honesty to preserve Sikkim’s heritage and accelerate development. For the government, Sikkim and the Northeast are not just important parts of the country but represent India’s ‘Asht Lakshmi’. “That is why, while working on the ‘Act East’ policy, we have also taken the resolve of ‘Act Fast’ for the Northeast,” stated Shri Modi.
The Prime Minister highlighted that over 30 projects worth thousands of crores were inaugurated and had foundation stones laid today, covering roads, power, tourism, health, and education sectors. Special attention has been given to challenges faced in North Sikkim areas after 2023, particularly in restoring connectivity that was affected. “We have focused on strengthening connectivity wherever it was impacted,” highlighted Shri Modi.
Identifying tourism economy as Sikkim’s greatest strength, the Prime Minister noted that despite having less than one percent of India’s geographical area, Sikkim hosts over 25 percent of the country’s floral diversity, approximately 500 bird species, nearly 700 butterfly species, beautiful forest cover, and the magnificent Kanchenjunga. “With so much to offer, everyone wants to visit Sikkim again and again,” remarked Shri Modi.
The Prime Minister emphasised that tourism in Sikkim provides income to a large number of people, and tourism flourishes only when a state has excellent infrastructure. Hundreds of kilometers of highways have been constructed in recent years, and work is progressing rapidly to extend roads to every village. Modern infrastructure that was once unimaginable is now becoming reality. “That is why we are focusing most on Sikkim’s connectivity and infrastructure,” emphasised Shri Modi.
Highlighting major connectivity projects, the Prime Minister mentioned the Bagdogra-Gangtok expressway and the Sevok-Rangpo rail line as crucial links connecting Sikkim with the entire country. New national highways are being constructed, and essential future projects like ring roads in cities such as Gangtok are also progressing. “Work is advancing in this direction as well,” stated Shri Modi.
Taking the example of the Sevok-Rangpo rail line, which received approval in 2008-09 but remained stuck in files with no ground work, he noted that development regained momentum after the current government came to power at the Centre. “For the first time, railways are reaching Sikkim,” highlighted Shri Modi.
Emphasizing the need for new ideas to promote tourism, the Prime Minister highlighted the construction of ropeways at Bhaleydhunga, Yen-Yeng, and Pelling, along with a skywalk being constructed at Bhaleydhunga and preparations for a glass deck skywalk at Singshore Bridge as examples of innovative thinking. Work is also progressing to enhance border experiences at places like Nathula and Namli. “These efforts will make your lives easier, increase tourist numbers, boost your income, and create more employment opportunities,” assured Shri Modi.
The Prime Minister noted the vast scope for eco-wellness tourism in Sikkim, which the government is actively promoting. To ensure maximum tourism income for local people, 1,000 homestays are being built, and infrastructure for adventure tourism is being supported. “We are creating opportunities for local communities to benefit directly from tourism,” remarked Shri Modi.
The Prime Minister noted that the projects inaugurated today include several major works related to the health sector. Recalling a time when there were very limited health services that even deterred tourists from visiting, he highlighted the transformation that has taken place. “Today, that challenge is also ending,” stated Shri Modi.
Detailing the healthcare infrastructure, the Prime Minister mentioned that approximately 200 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are currently functioning in Sikkim, along with four district hospitals, tertiary care hospitals, and wellness centers where thousands of people are benefiting from AYUSH facilities. “With the inauguration of the Drejong Namgyal Sowa Rigpa Hospital, Sikkim’s healthcare system will receive an additional boost,” affirmed Shri Modi.
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