Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday greeted the people of Sikkim on the occasion of the state’s 51st Statehood Day and said the Himalayan state’s contribution to India’s development is “deeply valued”.
In a letter to Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, Modi assured continued support and cooperation from the Centre for Sikkim’s tourism and economic development.
Describing the occasion as “sacred and joyous”, the Prime Minister said this year holds added significance as it marks the culmination of Sikkim’s 50th Statehood celebrations.
Sikkim became the 22nd state of India in 1975.
Chief Minister Tamang also extended greetings to the people of the state and said Sikkim continues to inspire the country through its commitment to sustainable development and social harmony.
He said the milestone offers an opportunity to look back with pride on Sikkim's remarkable journey over the past five decades.
"Greetings to my sisters and brothers on their Statehood Day. The contribution of Sikkim to India's development is deeply valued. Wishing the people of the state good health and prosperity," the PM said on X.
Praising the state's achievements, Modi noted in the letter that Sikkim has carved a unique place in the hearts and minds of people through its steady progress, vibrant cultural spirit, ecological wisdom, and inspiring social harmony.
Recalling his recent visit to the state during the Golden Jubilee celebrations, the Prime Minister said he was deeply moved by the warmth and affection shown by the people of Sikkim.
He fondly remembered the grand roadshow in Gangtok and interactions with the women and youth of Sikkim, saying their blessings and energy left a lasting impression on him.
Modi assured that the Centre would continue efforts to strengthen sporting infrastructure in the state so that young aspirants receive greater support.
The PM praised Sikkim's commitment to biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and organic farming, stating that the state stands as a beacon of sustainability, harmony with nature and cleanliness.
The Prime Minister highlighted the impact of various central government schemes in Sikkim, including the Jal Jeevan Mission, PM Awas Yojana, healthcare initiatives, and road connectivity.
He also reiterated the Centre's commitment to promoting tourism in the state through schemes such as Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD.
Modi said the coming 25 years would be a defining chapter in Sikkim's journey as the state moves towards celebrating 75 years of Statehood alongside 100 years of India's independence.
He called for a long-term development roadmap rooted in the aspirations of the people and assured continued support and cooperation from the Centre.
He expressed confidence that Sikkim's finest chapters are still ahead and wished continued prosperity, peace, and progress for the people of the Himalayan state.
The chief minister wished that the occasion would strengthen the spirit of unity and progress among the people of the state.
"Blessed with unparalleled natural beauty, vibrant traditions, and the majestic presence of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Sikkim continues to inspire the nation through its commitment to sustainable development, organic farming, environmental conservation, and social harmony," the CM said in a social media message.
The year-long celebrations, marking 50 years of Sikkim's integration with India, reflected the state's "remarkable journey of peace, democracy, cultural pride, and progressive development", he said.
"On this solemn occasion, let us also reaffirm our collective commitment to the spirit of discipline, unity, and responsibility by supporting the Hon'ble Prime Minister's call for austerity measures in the larger interest of the nation and the state," Tamang added.
(With inputs from PTI)
