PM Modi launches ₹4,000 crore projects in Sikkim, calls Northeast India’s ‘Ashtalakshmi’
Gangtok: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth over ₹4,000 crore in Sikkim, marking the closing ceremony of Sikkim’s 50th Year of Statehood celebrations at Paljor Stadium.
Addressing a public gathering, the Prime Minister described the Northeast as India’s “Ashtalakshmi” and said Sikkim holds a vital place in the region’s growth story.
“For the Northeast, we have not only adopted the Act East policy, but also Act Fast. Today, projects worth ₹4,000 crore across sectors have been kick-started,” he said.
Focus on Connectivity and Tourism
Highlighting the need for improved connectivity to unlock Sikkim’s tourism potential, the Prime Minister said infrastructure development remains a priority.
He noted that the Sevok–Rangpo railway line is progressing rapidly and will bring rail connectivity to Sikkim for the first time. He also referred to the proposed expressway linking Bagdogra Airport with Gangtok, which is expected to reduce travel time and boost tourist inflow.
Praising the state’s flora and fauna, he said, “More than 500 species of birds and around 700 species of butterflies can be found here. Sikkim has excellent forest cover, and those who visit once wish to return again.”
Projects Across Key Sectors
According to an official release, the projects span infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, education, power, urban development, environment, tourism and agriculture, aimed at promoting inclusive growth in the state.
In healthcare, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a 100-bedded Ayurveda hospital at Yangang in Namchi district and inaugurated a 30-bedded Integrated Sowa Rigpa Hospital at NIT Deorali.
In the education sector, he inaugurated the permanent campus of Sikkim University at Yangang, the administrative block of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University of Excellence at Chakung, Helen Lepcha Medical College in Gangtok, and Dentam Professional College in Gyalshing. Several schools, a model degree college, and IT-enabled infrastructure across 160 institutions were also launched.
Boost to Infrastructure and Urban Development
To strengthen connectivity, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for two double-lane steel arch bridges over the Teesta river and inaugurated the upgraded Birdhang–Namchi road, improving inter-district accessibility.
He also inaugurated projects to upgrade the power transmission and distribution network in Gangtok.
Urban infrastructure initiatives include the Jan Seva Sachivalaya at Lumsey, the Civil Service Officers Institute in Gangtok, and housing projects under the Sikkim Urban Garib Awas Yojana, along with residential facilities for police personnel.
Environment, Tourism and Livelihoods
In the environmental sector, projects for sewerage system rehabilitation in Singtam and river pollution abatement in Gangtok were launched.
Tourism-related initiatives include redevelopment of the Ridge Precinct, eco-tourism projects in Soreng, and infrastructure linked to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. A Yatri Niwas at Krishna Pranami Mangaldham and an eco-pilgrimage complex in Gyalshing are also part of the plan.
The Prime Minister also inaugurated the Sikkim IFFCO Processing Plant, aimed at boosting agro-processing and farmer incomes, and indoor cricket facilities in Pakyong district to promote sports among youth.
Focus on Development and Employment
The Prime Minister said the Centre has prioritised the development of the Northeast in recent years, adding that earlier governments had not adequately addressed the region’s needs.
He also announced plans to develop 1,000 homestays in Sikkim to promote tourism and create local employment opportunities, while highlighting initiatives such as Khelo India to support young talent.
(DD News)
