Prime Minister Modi Addresses Sikkim's 50th Statehood Anniversary via Video Link

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 50th anniversary of Sikkim's statehood via video conference due to bad weather. He expressed gratitude to Sikkim's farmers and highlighted the state's advancements in organic agriculture. Modi emphasized the importance of developing Sikkim as a global tourist destination and condemned recent terrorist activities. He assured his commitment to visiting Sikkim for future celebrations and praised the state's achievements. The planned visit was canceled, but Modi's vision for Sikkim's growth remains strong.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 29, 2025, 11:30 IST

Prime Minister Modi's Virtual Address

Due to adverse weather conditions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was unable to attend the 50th anniversary celebration of Sikkim's statehood in Gangtok on Thursday, as reported by officials. Instead, he addressed the people of Sikkim through a video conference from Bagdogra, West Bengal. During his address, he emphasized that the development of a prosperous India relies on four key pillars: the poor, farmers, women, and youth. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Sikkim's farmers, highlighting the state's leadership in the new agricultural trends emerging in the country. Modi announced that the central government is establishing India's first organic fish farming cluster in Sikkim, which will create new opportunities for the youth in the region.

Achievements and Future Aspirations

In his remarks at the statehood day event, Modi noted the increasing export of organic products from Sikkim, marking it as a significant achievement for the state. He praised Sikkim as a source of national pride, where the populace believes in democracy. Modi also pointed out the state's potential to become a hub for adventure sports. He reiterated the commitment of the ruling government to transform India into a sports powerhouse, with a focus on advancing the northeastern region in this regard. Additionally, he condemned the recent terrorist activities in Pahalgam, calling them an attack on humanity, and emphasized the unity in the fight against terrorism.

Tourism Development Vision

During the NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting in Delhi, Modi urged every state to develop tourist destinations that can gain international recognition. He expressed his vision for Sikkim to emerge as a global tourist destination, highlighting the immense potential for adventure and sports tourism in the state. Modi dreams of Sikkim becoming a center for conferences, wellness, and concerts, inviting the world's top artists to perform in Gangtok's scenic landscapes. He mentioned that G-20 meetings have been held in Sikkim to showcase the state's potential to the world, and he is pleased that the NDA government is turning this vision into reality.

Prime Minister's Commitment to Sikkim

Reflecting on the 50th anniversary celebrations, Modi expressed his desire to participate in the festivities, stating, "I wanted to be part of this celebration with you. I left Delhi early in the morning and reached Bagdogra, but the weather prevented me from going further. I apologize for not being there, but I assure you that I will visit Sikkim whenever the state government decides to host me for the 50th anniversary celebrations."

State Government's Response

Sikkim's Chief Minister, Prem Singh Tamang, praised Modi's courageous and visionary leadership, stating that India has sent a clear message to the world about being a strong and fearless nation that will not tolerate terrorism. He highlighted that the precise planning of operations has not only made the nation proud but has also established India as a symbol of courage, determination, and military strength on the global stage.

Cancellation of Prime Minister's Visit

Officials confirmed that Prime Minister Modi's planned visit to the golden jubilee celebrations at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok was canceled due to inclement weather. During this event, he was expected to release a commemorative coin, a souvenir, and a postage stamp marking the occasion. Modi was also set to inaugurate and lay the foundation for several projects, including a 500-bed district hospital in Namchi, a passenger ropeway in Pelling, and a statue of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Atal Amrit Udyan in Gangtok.

Social Media Highlights

#WATCH | Gangtok | At the 50th anniversary celebrations of Sikkim’s statehood, PM Narendra Modi says, "I also wanted to be a part of this celebration with you. I left Delhi early in the morning and reached Bagdogra, but the weather prevented me from going further... But such a… pic.twitter.com/K4E00ZFm47
— News Media

#WATCH | Gangtok, Sikkim | PM Narendra Modi says, "During the NITI Aayog Governing Council's meeting in Delhi, I said that every state should develop such tourist destinations that can establish themselves internationally. The time has come for Sikkim to become a global tourist… pic.twitter.com/Gaxc4qaWX6
— News Media