New Delhi, May 29 (HS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday that 50 years ago Sikkim chose a democratic future and that this state is now connected to the soul of the country. Today, the nation witnesses Sikkim's progress, and as a state characterized by biodiversity, cultural prosperity, and being a 100% organic state, it has become a pride of the nation.
While addressing the 'Sikkim@50' program virtually today, Prime Minister Modi conveyed a message of unity, balanced development, and empowerment of the Northeast. The program, based on the theme Where progress meets purpose and nature nurtures development, was organized to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Sikkim becoming a state.
In his speech, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam, framing it as an assault on humanity and India's cultural unity. He asserted that the attack aimed to disrupt the social fabric of the nation, but India showed solidarity in response, exemplified by Operation Sindoor, which showcased the country's decisive counter-terrorism capabilities. Emphasizing the importance of Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas for national development, he underscored the need to empower the Northeast for India's overall growth.
The Prime Minister noted significant investments from major investors during the North-East Investment Summit, and revealed plans to enhance connectivity in Sikkim, with over 400 kilometers of national highways constructed in the past decade and projects like the Atal Setu and Bagdogra-Gangtok Expressway in the pipeline.Additionally, he announced the establishment of ropeways where road construction is unfeasible, alongside the foundation stone for a new 500-bed hospital aimed at improving healthcare for the underprivileged.
PM Modi commended Sikkim's leadership in organic agriculture, celebrating the recent export of ‘Dalle Khursani’ chili and the launch of the first organic fisheries cluster in Soreng district, which promises youth employment opportunities. He articulated a vision to transform Sikkim into a global tourism hub, showcasing attractions like Khangchendzonga National Park and Buddhist monasteries, with future projects like the Golden Jubilee Convention Center and Skywalk.
Highlighting Sikkim's potential, he also referenced the ongoing ‘Khelo India’ initiative for sports development and a goal to establish Sikkim as a ‘Green Model State’ by promoting solar energy and agro-startups. Modi envisioned Sikkim as a prosperous state on the global stage by 2047, calling on citizens to contribute to this objective, and concluded by acknowledging the presence of dignitaries like the Governor and Chief Minister of Sikkim.
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
