Sikkim Marks 51st Statehood Day with Major Development Push

Gangtok, May 16: The 51st Statehood Day of Sikkim turned into a celebration of both heritage and progress as Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Sindhia unveiled a series of transformative projects worth ₹223 crore. The grand function at Gangtok saw the attendance of Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, Governor Om Prakash Mathur, and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang. Speaking in Nepali, the Minister described Sikkim as the country’s finest example of balanced development that respects nature and preserves local culture. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for placing Sikkim at the forefront of organic farming, sustainable tourism, and green growth. Key highlights included the inauguration of multiple road and bridge projects under the NESIDS scheme exceeding ₹45 crore, covering connectivity improvements in Pakyong, Namchi, and Gyalshing districts. The most significant announcement was the launch of Mission Sikkim Organics, a ₹360 crore flagship program designed to establish the state as a global leader in premium organic produce. The mission will directly support more than 66,000 farming households through better certification, processing facilities, branding, and export linkages, with special emphasis on large cardamom and ginger. Additional projects inaugurated during the event included the expansion of the Namthang market water supply, new academic and science blocks in government colleges, upgradation of Birtuk Heliport, the Bamboo Industrial Park, cultural craft centers, and a passenger ropeway. Minister Sindhia also informed that the Centre is expediting an alternate alignment for NH-10 to guarantee year-round connectivity. He concluded by wishing Sikkim continued success and said the state has become a national benchmark in per capita income and sustainable development.