Gangtok, April 28 (IPR): Prime Minister of India, Mr Narendra Modi, described Sikkim as the “Heaven of the East” and an “Orchid Garden” while addressing the gathering at the closing ceremony of the state’s 50 years of Statehood celebrations held at Paljor Stadium today.
The Prime Minister was accompanied on the dais by Governor Mr Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang, MP Rajya Sabha, Mr DT Lepcha, MP Lok Sabha, Dr Indra Hang Subba, and state BJP President, Mr DR Thapa.
In his address, the Prime Minister extended his heartfelt congratulations to the people of Sikkim on the completion of 50 years of Statehood. He expressed that his visit to the state had been a unique and enriching experience, filled with a celebratory spirit, while remarking on its distinct charm.
Referring to Sikkim as the “Heaven of the East” and an “Orchid Garden,” the Prime Minister said that experiencing the state’s natural beauty and spiritual serenity is a matter of great fortune.
Recalling his visit earlier in the day to the Swarnajayanti Maitreya Manjari, he stated that those who appreciate nature would miss out on something truly exceptional if they have not witnessed Sikkim’s orchids, adding that the beauty he experienced there continues to linger with him. He expressed confidence that such initiatives would set new benchmarks in tourism.
Describing the Golden Jubilee celebrations as historic, the Prime Minister said that the significance of the occasion was further enhanced by the state’s serene and divine environment.
He further appreciated the “1000 Steps of Unity” cultural presentation based on the theme ‘Unity in Diversity’, congratulating the participants, choreographers, and artistes for their efforts. He described the performance as a harmonious blend of nature and culture, reflecting the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, and encouraged wider dissemination of such cultural expressions.
While noting that he could not attend the inaugural programme last year due to inclement weather, the Prime Minister expressed his happiness at being present for the closing ceremony, terming it a privilege to share the moment with the people of Sikkim.
The Prime Minister also recalled the warm welcome he received during the roadshow from Ganju Lama Dwar to Lok Bhavan on his arrival yesterday, commending the people for their enthusiasm and the state for its cleanliness and environmental consciousness. He described the people of Sikkim as true ambassadors of environmental conservation.
Highlighting the progress made by the state, he acknowledged the leadership of the Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, and stated that Sikkim has emerged as an important pillar of development in the Northeast, referred to as the ‘Ashta Lakshmi’.
He reiterated the Government of India’s commitment through the Act East Policy, adding that the focus is now on an “Act Fast” approach to accelerate development, and stated that the projects inaugurated and foundation stones laid on the occasion across various sectors would significantly strengthen the state’s growth trajectory.
Emphasising infrastructure and connectivity as key priorities, the Prime Minister spoke about various initiatives aimed at boosting tourism and regional development, including projects such as the Bhaley Dhunga Skywalk and the Singhsore Bridge project, to name a few. He encouraged citizens to be “vocal for local” and support indigenous products.
Touching upon tourism potential, he highlighted opportunities in eco and wellness tourism, as well as adventure tourism, supported by improved infrastructure. He also spoke about the promotion of sports through initiatives like Khelo India and Fit India, aimed at empowering the youth.
In the health sector, he mentioned the expansion of Ayush Arogya Kendras, district hospitals, and wellness centres, including promotion of traditional systems through the virtual inauguration of the 30-bedded Integrated Sowa Rigpa Hospital at NIT Deorali, reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring healthcare access at the grassroots.
The Prime Minister also spoke about Sikkim’s achievements in the agriculture sector, highlighting its status as a model organic state and the growing role of organic processing units and Self Help Groups in strengthening the rural economy.
He further highlighted the importance of women’s empowerment, highlighting the growing role of women in driving grassroots development and community-led initiatives in the state.
The Prime Minister also went on to elaborate on Sikkim’s significant potential in the clean energy sector, emphasising its role in promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible growth, an area in which the state continues to set a notable example.
Commending environmental initiatives such as “Mero Rukh Mero Santati,” he described Sikkim as an inspiration for sustainable development.
The Prime Minister called upon the people to continue striving collectively towards greater progress, urging all to work in tandem to realise the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
On the occasion, the Prime Minister participated in a series of key developmental initiatives in the state, including the unveiling of plaques for foundation stone laying, inauguration of major projects, launch of new initiatives, and release of a coffee table book, covering multiple sectors such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, tourism, and urban development, as follows:
Laying of Foundation Stone (FS)
1. 100-bedded Ayurveda Hospital, Yangang (Namchi District)
2. Sadbhav Mandap at MG Marg, Gangtok
3. Redevelopment of Ridge Precinct, Gangtok
4. Two-Hinged 2-Lane Steel Arch Bridge (12.00 m width) over the Teesta River at Sirwani connecting Namchi- Gangtok
5. Two-Hinged 2-Lane Steel Arch Bridge (12.00 m width) over the Teesta River at Lower Samdong connecting Namchi–Gangtok
6. Eco-Tourism Pilgrimage Complex at Silnon, Tashiding (Gyalshing District)
7. Sewerage System of Singtam Town for Pollution Abatement of River Teesta
Launch of Project
1. Implementation of IT Infrastructure in 160 schools across Sikkim
Inauguration of Projects
1. Helen Lepcha Government Medical College, Socheygang, Gangtok
2. Jan Seva Sachivalaya, Lumsay, Gangtok
3. Sikkim University Campus,Yangang
4. Eco-Tourism Pilgrimage Complex at Dodak, Soreng District
5. System Augmentation, Renovation, Modernisation & Strengthening of Power Transmission & Distribution Network in Sikkim
6. Netaji Subash Chandra Bose University of Excellence (Academic Block–I, (RUSA), Chakung
7. Social Housing Complex at Sokeythang under Sikkim Urban Garib Awas Yojana
8. Pollution Abatement Scheme of River Rani Chu (Zone III, Gangtok)
9. Integrated Organic Processing Facility, Rangpo
10. Widening & Improvement of Birdhang- Namchi Road via Kitchudumra connecting Namchi, Soreng & Gyalshing
11. Acclimatisation Centres for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra at 18th Mile and Hangu Lake
12. Model Residential School at Hee Gyathang, Mangan
13. Improvement, Upgradation & Revamping of Power Transmission & Distribution Network in Gangtok
14. Sikkim Government Vocational College, Dentam
15. Housing for Police Personnel
16. Civil Service Officers’ Institute
17. Yatri Niwas at Krishna Pranami Mangal Dham, Namphing (Namchi District)
18. Sikkim Government College, Mangshila (North Sikkim)
19. Drejong Namgyal Sowa Rigpa Hospital, Deorali
20. Monastic Hostel-cum-Classrooms at Boomtar Gompa, Namchi
21. Integrated Development of Chakung Dak Bungalow Compound, Malbasey (Soreng District)
In addition, the Prime Minister dedicated indoor cricket academies developed with the support of BCCI across the North Eastern region, including Rangpo (Sikkim), Doimukh (Arunachal Pradesh), Imphal (Manipur), Madankurlang (Meghalaya), Aizawl (Mizoram), and Dimapur (Nagaland).
Additionally, the Prime Minister also released a coffee table book titled “This is Sikkim”, published by the Information and Public Relations (IPR) Department.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister for gracing the closing ceremony commemorating 50 years of Sikkim’s Statehood on behalf of the people of the State. He remarked that the occasion symbolised enduring good fortune and an unprecedented honour for the people of Sikkim.
The Chief Minister congratulated the Prime Minister on his tenure as the longest-serving elected head of government in India and lauded his “Nation First” ideology.
Highlighting India’s growing global stature under his leadership, he noted that the country today stands as a vital bridge and reliable partner between the Global North and the Global South.
He underscored the Prime Minister’s guiding mantra—Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayaas—as a powerful framework for inclusive development and empowerment. He also made special mention of key initiatives such as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, SASCI 2026–27, the Pride of the Hills initiative, and the inclusion of Sikkim under the Buddhist Circuit initiative.
The Chief Minister further conveyed his appreciation for the continued support extended to the state and reaffirmed Sikkim’s full cooperation and commitment towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
A major highlight of the event was the cultural segment titled “1000 Steps of Unity,” based on the theme ‘Unity in Diversity, which featured around 1,800 artistes from across the State, including students, SHGs, and members of the All Sikkim Dance Association. The presentation also garnered high appreciation from the Prime Minister for its flawless execution and excellence.
During the programme, a documentary titled “Sikkim Ki Vikas Yatra ke Swarnim 50 Varsh” was screened, highlighting key milestones in the state’s development since attaining Statehood through the 36th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1975.
The programme was attended by state Cabinet Ministers, Heads of Departments, officials, and people from all walks of life.
The event concluded successfully, marking the culmination of the state’s 50 years of Statehood celebrations.