PM Modi launches development projects worth over Rs 750 crore in Sikkim

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 29 virtually launched a series of developmental projects in Sikkim worth over Rs 750 crore, reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to the holistic development of the Northeast region. Addressing the Sikkim@50 celebration via video conferencing from Bagdogra, the Prime Minister highlighted the transformational journey of Sikkim over the past five decades and outlined his government’s vision to make the state a global model for sustainable development.

Among the key initiatives launched was a new 500-bedded District Hospital in Namchi, constructed at a cost exceeding Rs 750 crore, aimed at significantly strengthening the healthcare infrastructure of South Sikkim. Alongside, a passenger ropeway project at Sangachoeling was also inaugurated to boost tourism and provide improved connectivity to remote hill regions.

The Prime Minister was initially scheduled to attend the golden jubilee event of Sikkim’s statehood in person at Gangtok. However, due to inclement weather, he addressed the public virtually from Bagdogra.

In his address, PM Modi praised Sikkim for its commendable progress since it became the 22nd state of India in 1975. “Fifty years ago, Sikkim chose a democratic future for itself, and today, the country is witnessing the positive results of that choice. The trust of every Sikkimese family in the democratic process has only grown stronger,” he said.

Highlighting infrastructure developments, he noted that approximately 400 kilometres of national highways have been built in Sikkim over the last 10 years, and more than 100 kilometres of rural roads have also been constructed, significantly enhancing intra-state connectivity. He also underlined the strategic importance of the Sevoke-Rongpo railway line, which will connect Sikkim to the national railway network for the first time.

The Prime Minister also mentioned the Atal Setu, a vital link that has vastly improved road connectivity between Sikkim and Darjeeling. “Improved connectivity is not just about ease of travel—it’s about economic growth, accessibility to healthcare, and better educational opportunities for people living in the hills,” he said.

On the agricultural front, PM Modi lauded Sikkim’s pioneering status as a fully organic state and acknowledged the state’s new efforts in organic fish cultivation, positioning it at the forefront of India's shift towards sustainable agriculture. “Sikkim has become a model of nature and progress. In the next 25 years, our aim should be to make it a global green model state,” he added.

Speaking on the Centre’s developmental philosophy, Modi reiterated the slogan "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas", and emphasised the importance of balanced regional development in building a ‘Viksit Bharat’. He said that the ‘Act East’ policy is now being implemented with an ‘Act Fast’ approach, bringing the long-neglected Northeast to the centre of India’s development narrative.

Calling the youth of Sikkim and the Northeast crucial to India’s aspirations of becoming a global sports superpower, he cited the state’s sports icons and promised greater encouragement and infrastructure for young talent. “In the coming years, the youth of the Northeast will play a pivotal role in India's sports ambitions,” he said.

He also assured that more local products from Sikkim will be promoted for export to international markets, with the Centre extending all necessary support to local entrepreneurs and MSMEs.