Sikkim CM discusses vision for Viksit Sikkim in video conference with Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on April 23 participated in a crucial video conference with Union Minister for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER), Jyotiraditya Scindia. The conference was focused on discussing and charting the roadmap for achieving a “Viksit Sikkim” in alignment with the national vision of “Viksit Bharat@2047,” a goal outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Expressing his gratitude at the outset, Chief Minister Tamang acknowledged the invaluable support and guidance extended by Minister Scindia. He shared that the discussion covered various critical developmental projects in Sikkim, especially those that have received support from the Central Government. “I sincerely thank Hon’ble Minister Scindia Ji for his detailed review of the ongoing and proposed developmental projects in our state. His constructive feedback, insightful observations, and guidance are of immense value as we work towards inclusive growth and regional empowerment,” said Chief Minister Tamang.

One of the key areas discussed during the meeting was the vast potential Sikkim holds in the sectors of tourism and organic farming. These areas have been central to the state’s development strategy, and the Chief Minister was particularly encouraged by the Minister’s focus on expediting the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Vibrant Villages Programme. This ambitious initiative aims to enhance the infrastructure, livelihoods, and connectivity in the border regions of Sikkim, which are often remote and underserved. The Minister’s emphasis on speeding up the DPR process was seen as a significant step towards transforming Sikkim’s border areas, providing residents with better opportunities and improved living standards.

“I was especially heartened by the Minister’s emphasis on speeding up the DPR for the Vibrant Villages Programme, which will cover the entire stretch of our border regions. This programme holds the potential to transform our remote and frontier areas through improved infrastructure, livelihood generation, and enhanced connectivity,” Chief Minister Tamang said.

Another crucial point raised by Chief Minister Tamang was the strategic importance of the Chiwabhanjyang corridor, which lies on the border with Eastern Nepal. The corridor, according to Tamang, has significant potential to boost cross-border trade between Sikkim and Nepal, creating new economic opportunities for both regions. “I highlighted the strategic importance of the Chiwabhanjyang corridor, which has the immense potential to enhance trade with Eastern Nepal. Strengthening these trade relations will benefit both Sikkim and Nepal and provide new avenues for growth,” the Chief Minister said.

The promotion of sustainable tourism also emerged as a significant topic during the deliberations. The Chief Minister spoke about the potential of remote villages in Sikkim to benefit from the growing tourism industry. One key initiative discussed was the promotion of homestays in these villages, which would not only provide tourists with an authentic experience but also empower local communities economically. This would contribute to the overall growth of the rural economy and further establish Sikkim as a leading destination for eco-tourism and cultural tourism.

"The promotion of homestays in remote villages is one of the ways we plan to empower local communities, strengthen the rural economy, and promote sustainable tourism. It will provide a source of livelihood for locals while offering visitors a unique and immersive experience," Tamang said.

The discussion also touched on the important role that tourism plays in Sikkim's economy. The Chief Minister highlighted the ongoing infrastructure development supported by the Central Government, which has been crucial in enhancing the state’s tourism sector. These infrastructure projects, including roads, accommodations, and amenities, are expected to attract more visitors, further boosting the state’s economic growth.

“We are seeing continuous support from the Central Government, and this has been instrumental in the growth of Sikkim’s tourism sector. Several key infrastructure projects are underway, which will enhance our tourism landscape and create a more welcoming environment for both national and international tourists,” the Chief Minister said. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to building on this momentum to ensure that tourism-led development benefits all regions of the state.

During the video conference, a wide range of topics was discussed, including organic farming, infrastructure development, strategic trade corridors, and the development of tourism circuits. The Chief Minister also emphasized the need for skilled manpower and essential services to meet the growing demands of the tourism industry, ensuring that tourists receive the highest standards of hospitality. "Our focus is not only on infrastructure but also on providing the necessary skilled manpower to ensure quality services. We are committed to creating an environment where tourists feel comfortable and well taken care of," Tamang added.

Chief Minister Tamang expressed his appreciation to Minister Scindia for his focused presentations and deliberations on the various sectors critical to Sikkim’s development. He also thanked the Secretary of MDoNER, the Chief Secretary of Sikkim, and all the officials from both the Ministry and the state government who were involved in organizing the interaction.

"I extend my deepest appreciation to Hon'ble Minister Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia Ji for spearheading the discussions on crucial sectors such as Organic Farming, the Vibrant Villages Programme, Strategic Trade and Infrastructure Corridors, and the development of Tourism Circuits. The collaboration between the Centre and the State is vital, and I believe it will accelerate our shared vision of a developed, resilient, and prosperous Sikkim, an integral part of Viksit Bharat@2047," the Chief Minister said.