Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed the ‘Sikkim@50’ celebrations via videoconferencing, marking the golden jubilee of the state’s formation. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister lauded Sikkim’s achievements and inaugurated several development projects aimed at boosting the state’s infrastructure, connectivity, and public services.
“Today’s event offers a glimpse into Sikkim’s future journey,” said PM Modi, as he congratulated the people of the state on the occasion. He said the newly inaugurated projects and foundation stone-laying ceremonies would enhance healthcare, tourism, cultural, and sports infrastructure in the region. “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone on the successful launch of these projects,” he said.
The Prime Minister underlined that Sikkim, along with the entire Northeast, is emerging as a “shining chapter in India’s development story.” Reflecting on the change over the past decade, PM Modi said, “Where distance from Delhi once posed a barrier to progress, the same region is now opening new doors of opportunities.”
He attributed this transformation to the significant strides in connectivity. “The biggest reason for this transformation is the improvement in connectivity, a change that the people of Sikkim have witnessed firsthand,” he said. PM Modi recalled a time when accessing education, healthcare, and employment required arduous travel. “However, the situation has changed significantly over the past decade,” he added.
Prime Minister highlighted that nearly 400 kilometers of new national highways have been constructed in Sikkim in recent years. In addition, hundreds of kilometers of new roads have been built in rural areas, enhancing last-mile connectivity.
He also spoke about key infrastructure developments, including the construction of the Atal Setu, which has improved connectivity between Sikkim and Darjeeling. “Work is progressing rapidly on the road linking Sikkim with Kalimpong,” he said. The Prime Minister also mentioned that the Bagdogra-Gangtok Expressway will make travel to and from Sikkim more efficient and announced plans to integrate it with the Gorakhpur-Siliguri Expressway to further bolster regional infrastructure.
Highlighting railway connectivity, PM Modi said that the government is actively working to link all capital cities in the Northeast with the national rail network. “The Sevoke-Rangpo rail line will integrate Sikkim into the national rail network,” he said, describing the project as a key step towards inclusive development.
For areas where road construction remains difficult due to terrain, the Prime Minister said ropeways are being introduced as alternative means of transport. “Several ropeway projects were inaugurated earlier today, further improving convenience for the people of Sikkim,” he added.
Reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to balanced regional development, Shri Modi said the government is advancing the ‘Act East’ policy with the spirit of ‘Act Fast’. “A developed India requires balanced development, ensuring that no region is left behind,” he concluded.