New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday greeted the people of Sikkim on the occasion of the State’s 50th Statehood Day and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to supporting its development and growth.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister extended his wishes to the people of the Himalayan State and said Sikkim’s contribution to India’s development was deeply valued.
“Greetings to my sisters and brothers on their Statehood Day. The contribution of Sikkim to India’s development is deeply valued. Wishing the people of the State good health and prosperity,” PM Modi said.
Noting that Sikkim was celebrating its 50th Statehood Day this year, the Prime Minister recalled his recent visit to the State and said the warmth shown by the people would remain memorable for him.
“A few days ago, I had the good fortune of being among the people of Sikkim for the celebrations. The warmth I received in Sikkim will remain a part of my memory. The Central Government will keep supporting Sikkim’s growth trajectory in the times to come,” he added.
Sikkim Statehood Day is observed every year on May 16 to commemorate the State’s merger with the Indian Union in 1975.
The former Himalayan kingdom became India’s 22nd State following a referendum in April 1975, in which an overwhelming majority voted in favour of abolishing the monarchy and integrating with India. The transition was formalised on May 16, 1975, through the 36th Constitutional Amendment.
Before joining India, Sikkim was ruled by the Namgyal dynasty and later functioned as an Indian protectorate under the Indo-Sikkim Treaty of 1950.
Meanwhile, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia is attending the Statehood Day celebrations during his official visit to Sikkim.
During the visit, Scindia is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for several projects under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region and launch the USP Organic Farming Project aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture in the State.
The Union Minister is also reviewing tourism, infrastructure and connectivity projects across Sikkim. His itinerary includes visits to the Temi Tea Garden, the Bhaleydunga Skywalk, Nathula Pass and other locations linked to tourism and pilgrimage infrastructure.
Scindia is expected to attend the Statehood Day celebrations in Gangtok as the Guest of Honour.
(DD News)