PM Modi flags major projects in Sikkim, stresses connectivity and tourism, and positions the Northeast as central to India’s growth narrative during the state’s 50th year celebrations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi (Photo: X/@narendramodi)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday used Sikkim’s 50th Statehood celebrations to sharpen his attack on the Congress, alleging that earlier governments had slowed the state’s development, even as he rolled out and flagged off projects worth over ₹4,000 crore across sectors.
The remarks came at a milestone moment for Sikkim, with the Centre placing the state and the wider Northeast at the centre of its development push. PM Modi described the region as India’s “Ashtalakshmi” and said the government had moved beyond the “Act East” policy to what he called an “Act Fast” approach.
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Taking aim at past regimes, the Prime Minister said key infrastructure projects had remained stuck for years. “What the BJP government is achieving now could have been accomplished much earlier. However, successive Congress governments consistently hindered Sikkim’s development,” he said.
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Citing the Sivok–Rangpo railway line, he noted that while it was approved in 2008–09, visible progress came later. “For the first time, a railway line is set to reach Sikkim,” he said, highlighting the Centre’s focus on connectivity.
He added that road, rail and air links were being strengthened across the region, including a proposed expressway linking Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok to improve access and boost tourism.
Addressing a gathering at Paljor Stadium, the Prime Minister said the Northeast was central to India’s growth story. “Sikkim and the Northeast are not just important parts of our country. They are India’s Ashtalakshmi,” he said.
Referring to the day’s announcements, he said more than 30 projects across infrastructure, healthcare, education, tourism and urban development had either been inaugurated or had their foundation stones laid. These, he said, were aimed at ensuring holistic and inclusive development.
PM Modi also spoke about national unity, saying Sikkim reflected the idea of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” at a time when attempts were being made to divide the country along linguistic and regional lines.
“Due to political interests, at a time when attempts are being made to sow divisions… Sikkim has today offered us a true glimpse of the vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’,” he said, praising the cultural performances at the event.
Highlighting Sikkim’s ecological richness, the Prime Minister pointed to its biodiversity and natural appeal. “More than 25 per cent of the country’s floral diversity is found in Sikkim… more than 500 species of birds and around 700 species of butterflies,” he said.
Calling Sikkim “Purv ka garv”, he urged tourists to visit the state in large numbers this year and announced plans to develop 1,000 homestays to create local employment and expand tourism.
During his visit, PM Modi also toured the Swarnajayanti Maitri Manjari Park in Gangtok, including an Orchid Experience Centre, and praised residents for maintaining cleanliness during his roadshow.
According to official details, the projects launched on Tuesday cover infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, education, power, environment, agriculture and tourism. The Centre said these initiatives would improve public services and further integrate Sikkim with the rest of the country.
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