Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday celebrated Sikkim’s 50th statehood anniversary in Gangtok, describing the state as the “Heaven of the East” while praising its natural beauty, peaceful environment, and strong cultural harmony.
He began the day on a light and engaging note by playing football with local youngsters, sharing moments that reflected his connection with the people before moving on to official programmes. Later, he addressed a large gathering at Paljor Stadium, where the golden jubilee celebrations were held with great enthusiasm.
Congratulating the people of Sikkim, the Prime Minister highlighted the state’s remarkable journey over the past five decades. He praised its commitment to preserving nature while achieving steady development. Referring to Sikkim’s rich biodiversity, he made special mention of its orchids, saying that anyone who has not seen them “has not seen anything,” underlining the state’s immense tourism potential.
PM Modi also appreciated the unity among the people, noting that Sikkim stands as an example of harmony where diverse communities come together, especially during such important celebrations. He expressed happiness at being able to attend the event, recalling that an earlier visit had to be cancelled due to bad weather.
The Prime Minister’s visit followed a grand celebrations on Monday evening, when thousands of people lined the streets of Gangtok during his roadshow. The atmosphere was vibrant, with citizens waving the national flag and welcoming him with traditional music and cultural performances.
Emphasising development, PM Modi spoke about the importance of strengthening infrastructure in the region. He highlighted the Sevoke–Rangpo railway project as a key initiative that will connect Sikkim to the national railway network, making travel easier and boosting tourism and economic opportunities.
Reaffirming the Centre’s commitment, the Prime Minister assured continued support for Sikkim’s growth and development. As the state marks 50 years of statehood, his visit added to the celebrations, reflecting both pride in the past and confidence in the future.
