New Delhi, 16 May (H.S.): On the occasion of Sikkim’s 51st Statehood Day, President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and several Union ministers extended greetings to the people of the state and praised its achievements. Sikkim formally became the 22nd state of India on May 16, 1975.

In her message on social media platform X, President Murmu said Sikkim has emerged as a model of sustainable development for the country because of its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and strong commitment to environmental conservation. She said the people of Sikkim are known for their warmth, simplicity and goodwill, and wished the state continued progress.

Prime Minister Modi extended his wishes to the people of Sikkim and said the state’s contribution to India’s development is extremely significant. He wished the people good health and prosperity. The Prime Minister said he recently had the opportunity to join the Statehood Day celebrations among the people of Sikkim, and that the warmth he received there would remain a lasting memory. He assured that the Centre would continue to extend full support to Sikkim’s development.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla described Sikkim as a distinctive identity of the country, known for the natural splendour of Kanchenjunga, biodiversity and the fact that it is a fully organic state. He said Sikkim, famous for cleanliness, tourism and a rich cultural heritage, is making an important contribution to the country’s progress.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on X that as the world’s first fully organic state, Sikkim has given mountain tourism a new identity and its achievements are an inspiration for the entire nation.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan praised Sikkim’s natural beauty, folk culture and traditions, and congratulated the people of the state. He wished for the state’s continued development and prosperity under the leadership of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang.

Union Minister Giriraj Singh said on X that Sikkim, rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, is a symbol of peace and harmony, and prayed that it continues to advance on the path of development.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also extended greetings to the people of Sikkim on Statehood Day, saying that the state, with its remarkable natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and spirit of brotherhood, is making an important contribution to the country’s progress.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar