Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for over 30 development projects in Sikkim, with a total outlay of more than ₹4,000 crore, at the closing ceremony of Sikkim’s 50th Year of Statehood celebrations held at Paljor Stadium.
Addressing a public gathering, the Prime Minister described the Northeast as India’s “Ashtalakshmi” and said the Centre has moved beyond the “Act East” policy to an “Act Fast” approach to accelerate development in the region.
The projects span sectors including connectivity, healthcare, education, tourism, power and urban development. According to an official release, the initiatives are aimed at improving infrastructure and expanding access to services across the State.
Connectivity and tourism focus
PM Modi underscored the role of connectivity in unlocking Sikkim’s tourism potential. He referred to the ongoing Sevok–Rangpo railway line, noting that it would bring rail connectivity to the State for the first time. He also mentioned the proposed expressway linking Bagdogra to Gangtok, which is expected to reduce travel time.
He said Sikkim’s biodiversity and natural landscape continue to draw visitors, citing its rich forest cover and diversity of bird and butterfly species. Tourism, he added, remains a key source of livelihood in the State.
Projects across sectors
In the healthcare sector, foundation stones were laid for a 100-bedded Ayurveda hospital in Namchi district, while an Integrated Sowa Rigpa hospital at Deorali was inaugurated.
Education-related initiatives include the inauguration of new institutional infrastructure, including the permanent campus of Sikkim University and facilities at other higher education institutions, along with IT-enabled upgrades across schools.
Infrastructure projects include bridges over the Teesta river and road development works to improve inter-district connectivity. Power sector upgrades and urban infrastructure projects, including administrative buildings and housing schemes, were also launched.
Environmental initiatives such as sewerage system upgrades and river pollution abatement projects were announced, alongside tourism infrastructure including redevelopment of the Ridge Precinct in Gangtok and facilities linked to pilgrimage routes.
Agriculture, sports and local economy
The Prime Minister also referred to the inauguration of an agro-processing plant aimed at supporting farmers and improving value chains. He said efforts are being made to promote homestays and expand tourism-linked employment opportunities.
On sports, he noted the performance of Sikkim’s youth in disciplines such as football, boxing and archery, and referred to initiatives under the Khelo India programme to support talent development.
Organic farming and sustainability
PM Modi highlighted Sikkim’s status as a fully organic State, describing it as a model for sustainable agriculture. He said local produce such as large cardamom, ginger and turmeric is reaching wider markets, supported by processing infrastructure.
He also referred to community-led environmental initiatives and called for continued efforts towards conservation and sustainable development.
The Prime Minister said the projects launched on Tuesday are expected to improve infrastructure, generate employment and strengthen integration of the State with national growth networks. He called for collective efforts to advance development goals in line with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat.
