51st Statehood Day Celebrations of the State of Sikkim

I touch and salute the holy feet of Bharat Mata – the Most Powerful and the Most Merciful. Bharat Mata ki jai!

On the occasion of the Sikkim State Day Celebrations, the dignitaries sharing the dais with me, Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim, Shri Om Prakash Mathur Ji; Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang Ji; Hon’ble Union Minister of Development of North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia Ji; Hon’ble Speaker of Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Shri Mingma Norbu Sherpa Ji; Hon’ble Minister of Public Health Engineering, Sikkim, Shri Sonam Lama Ji; Other guests and my beloved people of Sikkim.

Kuzuzangpola. Mero Pyaro Sikkim-ka Janata Tapai harrukastohunuhuncha

I am pleased to be here in this beautiful State of Sikkim — a land of majestic mountains, sacred rivers, vibrant culture, and above all, compassionate and disciplined people. Sikkim is a shining example of what harmony between nature, culture, and governance can achieve.

Today’s celebration marks 51 glorious years of Sikkim’s democratic integration with the Union of India on May 16th 1975. It has been an extraordinary journey forthe Himalayan state. I congratulate you all on this grand day!

Today also presents us an opportunity to remember with deep respect and gratitude all those who fought for the identity of this State. We remember with deep respect Shri Kazi Lhendup Dorjee Ji, the first Chief Minister of Sikkim. He was a visionary leader whose name is forever linked with the democratic journey of this great State. As the first Chief Minister of a newly integrated Sikkim, he guided the State through a historic transition with wisdom, courage, and commitment.

Recently, our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shriman Narendra Modi Ji also visited the Statefor the closing ceremony of the State’s 50th Year of Statehood celebrations. During his visit, the Hon’ble Prime Minister launched and laid the foundation stone for several major development projects worth over Rs. 4,000 crores across various key sectors. He described Sikkim as an integral part of the Ashtalakshmis of the North-East, reflecting its vital role in the region’s growth and prosperity. He also spoke that now the Government is emphasizing ‘Act East and Act Fast’ for the development of the Ashtalakshmis. This statement clearly underscores the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s deep regard and commitment to the development of Sikkim. I am confident that, building upon this strong foundation, the 51st year of Sikkim’s Statehood will begin a new phase of growth, transformation, and inclusive development. Sikkim will surelybe a strong partner in the march towards Viksit Bharat @ 2047 and make significant contributions to the national programmes.

I appreciate the Government of Sikkim, under the leadership of the Hon’ble CM, Shri Prem Singh Tamang Ji, for his dedicated efforts towards the progress and holistic development of the State. Sikkim stands tall as a model of sustainable development. In 2016, Sikkim became the world’s first 100% organic State. Converting 76,000 hectares of agricultural land into a chemical-free paradise is proof that development need not come at the cost of nature. This was more than an agricultural reform; it was a cultural revolution. It was a declaration that prosperity and purity can coexist. Today, over 66,000 farming families carry forward this legacy, preserving the health of the soil, the dignity of the farmer, and the future of generations to come. I congratulate the people of Sikkim for this great achievement.

Sikkim is widely regarded as one of India’s leading models of environmental conservation, with over 47% forest cover and the highest proportion of protected areas in the country. Nature has blessed Sikkim generously, and Sikkim has responded with responsibility. With vast forest cover, rich biodiversity, protected areas, and globally recognised heritage sites, the State has become a guardian of the Himalayan ecosystem. Initiatives like planting 108 trees under the Mero Rukh Mero Santati, for every child born, reflect a deep civilisational belief — that every life must begin with a commitment to protect the Earth. This way, every newborn child is symbolically made carbon neutral from birth, as it is estimated that 108 trees absorb approximately 2.7 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide annually — which is close to India’s per capita emissions. If every State follows this model of Sikkim, Bharat can achieve net-zero emissions even before 2070.

I appreciate Hon’ble CM, Shri Prem Singh Tamang Jiand his entire team for the initiative that thoughtfully combines environmental sustainability with social security. I am told that the number 108 holds deep spiritual and cultural significance in Himalayan culture. In tune with that, the Sishu Samriddhi Yojana of the Government of Sikkim deposits 10,800 Rupees in the name of the child for social security. Such visionary policies connect spirituality with sustainability, and link environmental leadership with long-term social security.

In the field of healthcare, Sikkim has made remarkable progress. With extensive health infrastructure, super-speciality facilities, and impressive maternal and infant health indicators, the State demonstrates that compassionate governance saves lives. I am extremely pleased to learn that the State is steadily emerging as a hub for holistic wellness through the promotion of AYUSH systems, including Yoga and the traditional Sowa Rigpa system of medicine. Here in Sikkim, I see that Health is more than a public service — it is a promise delivered with care, dignity, and dedication.

Sikkim’s strategic location, sharing international borders with other countries, makes it a sentinel of our nation. It stands as a frontier of strength and stability. True security does not lie only in geography; it lies in the unity of people. The harmony among communities, the spirit of cooperation, and the deep sense of national pride make Sikkim an unshakable pillar of India’s integrity. Programmes strengthening border villages and connectivity will further empower these regions and integrate them with the national mainstream. Recognising the importance of strong border communities, the Government of India has extended the Vibrant Village Programme to Sikkim. A total of 58 villages will be covered in phases under this Scheme. During my next visit, I would definitely like to visit one of the vibrant villages, for they are no longer the last villages but the first villages of Bharat.

Tourism in Sikkim is an experience of calm and rejuvenation. From adventure tourism to eco-tourism, from homestays in villages to globally acclaimed trekking routes, Sikkim has shown how development can be community-driven and environmentally responsible. The growth in domestic and international visitors reflects the world’s admiration for this Himalayan jewel. I also had the opportunity to witness the beauty of the Orchidarium at Swarnajayanti Maitreya Manjari, which Hon’ble PM had also visited. I can tell you thatHon’ble PM rightly referred to Sikkim as ‘Heaven of the East’ and ‘The Orchid Garden’.

I am amazed by the way Sikkim people are promoting small acts of fitness. I am told that the Mahatma Gandhi Road in Gangtok is strictly a pedestrian zone and prohibits vehicles. In today’s world, where walking has reduced considerably, such novel ideas promote the idea of Fit Bharat, Swasth Bharat. I also urge the tourists visiting the State to cooperate with the people of Sikkim, avoid littering and the use of plastics. Let us work together to protect the Himalayan ecosystem!

Sikkim has so much to showcase to the world. I got to experience it first-hand when I visited the handicrafts and handloom exhibition and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology.  I take this opportunity to appreciate Hon’ble PM, Shriman Narendra Modi Ji, for improving connectivity through the railway line and heliport at Burtuk, which boosts tourist inflow. Our Hon’ble PM, during his visit, had also spoken about the Bhaley Dhunga Skywalk and the Singhsore Bridge project, which were aimed at boosting tourism and regional development. I visited Mizoram recently and was pleased to see that the Rajdhani Express has now reached that State. Railway lines to various States of Ashtalakshmis have improved connectivity and given a boost to economy, trade and tourism. I am confident that the day is also not far away when Sikkim will have a direct rail link.

I congratulate the Sikkim state for earning notable recognitions such as the Best Sustainable Tourism Practising State, Best Emerging Eco-Tourism Destination, and others. Besides, normal hill station activities for tourists, I can see that you have introduced battlefield tourism under the Ranbhoomi Darshan programme at Cho La and Doka la. This will foster patriotism and awareness about the nation’s borders. I am delighted to note that last year, Sikkim welcomed over 68,000 tourists. I visited This reflects the growing appeal of the State as a preferred destination for nature, culture, and sustainable tourism. In the spirit of the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s call for simplicity and the promotion of local tourism, I am confident that more citizens will choose to explore our own incredible destinations. I am hopeful that this positive momentum will continue, and that the number of visitors will increase further in the coming year, strengthening livelihoods and boosting the local economy.

In sports, education, and youth development, Sikkim is investing in its greatest asset — its young people. In the face of climate change and the recurring challenges of Teesta flooding, it is imperative that we strengthen preparedness and resilience at every level. These environmental realities remind us of the urgent need for coordinated action, sustainable practices, and robust disaster management systems. I call upon our youth to actively participate in disaster preparedness and response initiatives. Their energy, innovation, and commitment can make a meaningful difference in community awareness, early warning dissemination, relief efforts, and long-term climate resilience. Youth can become vital partners in safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the future of our State.

From modern sports infrastructure to specialised academies, from foundational literacy initiatives to vocational education, the State is building confidence, competence, and character. When our youth rise, the nation rises. Sikkim has produced several distinguished sportspersons who have brought pride to the State and the nation.

Legendary footballer Bhaichung Bhutia, renowned archer Tarundeep Rai inspire generations of players not only in Sikkim but across the country.

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar once said: “I measure the progress of a community by the degree of progress women have achieved”. Sikkim exemplifies this principle with sincerity and action. In Sikkim, women empowerment and women-led development are a lived reality. With strong safety mechanisms, reservations in governance, welfare schemes, and financial support programmes, women are leading in multiple spheres. I am happy to learn that the crime and violence rate against women in the State is extremely low, and that there is a 33% reservation for women in Government Service. I have also been told that women entrepreneurs are promoted by reservations for them in Tender Bids for Government works. These initiatives are truly progressive in nature and show that Sikkimese women are marching shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts in various spheres.

Sikkim’s journey of 50 years reflects the finest ideals of Bharat. It shows that inclusive growth, environmental responsibility, social justice, and spiritual values can move together. It proves that small in size does not mean small in impact. In fact, Sikkim’s example resonates far beyond its borders. This 51st year of statehood marks more than a milestone; it is a new beginning, It is a step towards greater prosperity, resilience, and opportunity. Let us work together to ensure that every village prospers, every child receives quality education, every mother feels secure, every farmer thrives, and every youth finds opportunity within the State.

Let Sikkim remain a beacon of progress in the Himalayas, and a proud contributor to the journey of a stronger, greener, and more compassionate Bharat. I wish you all every success, every health, every wealth, and above all, happiness!

• Jai Hind!
• Jai Sikkim!
• Long Live Mother Bharat!

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