INDEPENDENCE DAY
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang addresses public on 79th Independence Day
CM said, ‘On this historic occasion of the 79th Independence Day, I extend my warmest greetings to each and every one of you. Today, as we come together to celebrate the hard-earned freedom of our great nation, we pay solemn tribute to the countless brave hearts whose sacrifices and unwavering resolve gifted us the right to choose our own destiny. Their legacy continues to inspire us as we march forward with renewed determination toward a brighter and more prosperous future.
On 16th May 1975, when Sikkim joined the Indian Union, it became the 22nd State of India, marking a pivotal moment in our history. This milestone heralded a new era of progress with the establishment of modern institutions and the creation of numerous opportunities within the democratic framework. This year, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of that historic occasion. As part of the grand celebrations marking the Golden Jubilee of Sikkim’s Statehood, the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, was scheduled to grace our state with his august presence on 29th May 2025. This momentous occasion held great significance for every Sikkimese, as we looked forward to welcoming the leader of our great nation to share in the pride and joy of this historic milestone. However, due to heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions, the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s visit could only continue up to Bagdogra. Owing to the circumstances, he reached out to us through a live address from Bagdogra, delivering his cordial message, blessings, and words of encouragement to the people of Sikkim.
During the event, the Hon’ble Prime Minister virtually laid the foundation stone for various major projects.
· Swarna Jayanti Convention Centre at Namli, GangtokDistrict, is set to enhance Gangtok’s urban infrastructure, designed as a premier destination for national and international events.
· Swarna Jayanti Sports & Cultural Complex, Gangtok District, is designed to promote cultural and sports activities.
· Skywalk Project at Bhaley Dhunga at Yangyang, Namchi District, a 240-metre-long circular glass bottom walkway, which shall be the nation’s first Eco Tourism skywalk, best suited for adventure explorers.
· Nathula Border Experience, Gangtok District, a historic pass on the ancient Silk Route, shall majorly focus on tourism infrastructure near the Indo-China Border. The development will include multi-level parking facilities, a covered walkway, an escalator, a cafeteria, a medical infirmary, and Indo-China gate.
· Conversion of Singshore Bridge as Glass Skywalk Bridge, Uttarey, Gyalshing District, the highest suspension bridge in Sikkim, with a depth of 117m, shall majorly focus on Tourism and ecotourism. The project is funded under the PM-Devine Fund & State Fund. The bridge that was built in 1994 will now be converted into a glass bridge, which shall include activities like bungee jumping, scenic viewing decks, parking facilities, landscaping, and tourist convenience.
· A Working Women Hostel, Gangtok District, had been the primary agenda of the state for women’s employment and growth, to be established in Tadong.
· A 100-bedded District Hospital, set to be established in Pakyong District, providing much-needed medical facilities and convenience to the local community. His thoughtful gesture reflected his deep respect and affection for our state, and his assurance of visiting Sikkim shortly fills us with anticipation and pride. We remain profoundly grateful for his commitment, and we look forward to the day when we can extend our warm traditional welcome to him on our Sikkimese soil. The grand celebrations being held is a powerful reminder of how Sikkim has risen with pride, making remarkable strides in health, education, social welfare and infrastructure reflecting our unwavering commitment to shaping a brighter and more inclusive future.
Today, I look back with immense pride and look ahead with boundless optimism. Over the past five decades, Sikkim has transformed into a shining beacon of progress, earning its place as one of the most forward-looking and progressive states in the nation. We rank second in India in terms of per capita income and sixth in overall Human Development Index (HDI) with a commendable score of 0.762. In the latest NITI Aayog Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) assessment, Sikkim recorded an overall composite SDG score of 76, placing it comfortably among the top-performing states. Between 2018 and 2023-24, Sikkim achieved front-runner status in several indicators, maintaining a strong growth trajectory. These figures collectively indicate a state with low levels of deprivation and a holistic approach to sustainable development and equitable growth.
Building on these achievements, we are steadfast in our journey towards a “Sunaulo Sikkim, Samriddha Sikkim, ani Samarth Sikkim”. To sustain our growth momentum and ensure continued progress, we have rolled out a series of forward-looking policies that not only drive economic and social advancement but also strengthen our sense of community, safeguard our rich cultural heritage, and protect the unique ecological biodiversity that defines our State. Our vision is firmly aligned with the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji’s transformative mission of building a Viksit Bharat, for it is through the creation of strong and prosperous states- a Viksit Rajya- that the dream of a truly Viksit Bharat will be fully realized.
On this momentous occasion, it gives me great pride to highlight some of the significant strides we have made. Since the formation of the State government in 2019, the health sector has remained a cornerstone of our policymaking, as is reflected in the substantial investments dedicated to its improvement.
The New STNM Hospital has witnessed remarkable infrastructure and facility enhancements that include the establishment of new Super Specialty Departments including Nephrology, Cardiothoracic Surgery, and Neurosurgery alongside existing departments such as Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Urology, Paediatric Surgery and the expansion of the Gynaecology wards. Key milestones include the hospital’s first ever Gynaecologic-Oncology procedure, the departments of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery successfully performing over 100 laser surgeries and the Department of Orthopaedics performing the state’s first Total Knee Replacement Surgery.
Another landmark achievement is the establishment of the first Tertiary Cancer Care Centre under the Department of Radiation Oncology, providing essential cancer treatment to the concerned patients within the state eliminating the need to travel outside and bear exorbitant costs.
The state government has also facilitated the initiation of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission with the implementation of the C-DAC Hospital Management Information System, featuring “Scan and Skip the Queue” for efficient patient flow management. We have also implemented structured visiting hours for better patient-family coordination and initiated the Jan Aushadi Initiative thus ensuring affordable medicines. Furthermore, the admission and discharge process have been streamlined with a centralized registration system established to reduce waiting lines significantly.
The State government added yet another feather to its crown with the construction of the 500-bedded District Hospital at Namchi – a state-of-the-art 11 storied facility that boasts of OPD, Dialysis, MRI, CT scan and an Administrative Block, among others. This landmark institution was virtually inaugurated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister during the celebration of the Golden Jubilee of our statehood earlier this year.
Furthermore, the upcoming State Medical College at Sochakgang, Sichey, with an estimated annual intake of 100 students is slated for operation in 2026. Once completed, it will significantly strengthen the healthcare ecosystem by ensuring a steady and reliable pipeline of trained medical professionals within the state.
In addition to these initiatives, the state government extends financial assistance through two key schemes, Mukhya MantriMantri swasthya Suvidha Yojana (MMSSY) and the Chief Minister Medical Assistance Scheme (CMMAS). Under the MMSSY, financial assistance is provided to patients referred by the Medical Board and benefits the general public possessing a Certificate of Identification/Sikkim Subject, as well as temporary government employees on a Contractual or Ad hoc basis along with regular government employees under probation who are not covered by the Medical Reimbursement Rules, 1981. Financial Assistance of up to Rs. 3 lakhs are provided to BPL patients, up to Rs. 2 lakhs for APL patients and up to Rs. 2.5 lakhs for temporary government employees referred for treatment outside Sikkim. Additionally, the CMMAS provides significant financial support for treatment of critical illness outside Sikkim and critical in-patient treatments within the state.
With the aim to address healthcare access gaps in remote areas with advanced diagnostic facilities, we commenced the Mobile Village Clinics, on October 10, 2022 at 8 different locations. Till date, the clinics have covered 1305 number of camps, served over 40,400 patients and conducted over 15, 800 tests.
As a result of these efforts, Sikkim has made remarkable progress in the health indicators. The life expectancy at birth is 75.77 years, ranking among the highest in the country. Institutional delivery has reached 94.7 percent and child immunization stands at 95.5 percent, both exceeding the national averages. Furthermore, the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) is among the lowest nationally, at 5.0 per 1000 live births (SRS 2020). These figures reflect the success of our maternal and child healthcare services, while also indicating the strength of our broader healthcare infrastructure and living standards.
Education continues to stand as one of the highest priority sectors for the development of Sikkim, and the Government has pursued this mission with a deep sense of responsibility, long-term vision, and consistent, result-driven action. Guided by the transformative framework of the National Education Policy 2020, we have worked to create a seamless and inclusive learning pathway- from the foundational years through higher education- ensuring that no child in the State is left behind in accessing quality learning opportunities. Recognising that the foundation of a strong education system begins in the early years, Sikkim became the first state in India to introduce the kindergarten system in all government schools, fully aligning with the NEP’s emphasis on Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE). Our leadership in Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) has earned Sikkim the top position among Northeastern states in the FLN Index, a testament to the dedication of our educators and the effectiveness of our reforms. The introduction of the Vidya Pravesh module- a three-month, play-based school readiness programme- has helped children transition smoothly into formal schooling, fostering curiosity and a love for learning from the very start.
To make learning relevant and engaging, we have developed new textbooks for Classes I-V in English, EVS and Mathematics, integrating themes of sustainable development, local culture, and child-friendly pedagogy. These textbooks have been recognised by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, as model resources for other states, underscoring Sikkim’s role as a leader in educational innovation. Our Learning Enhancements Programme and Education Assistance Scheme are strengthening academic outcomes and making higher education more accessible, while under the New India Literacy Programme (NILP), we are working towards achieving full literacy by 2027- covering foundational literacy, numeracy, digital literacy, financial literacy and continuing education for all.
Sikkim is also emerging as a preferred destination for higher education in the Eastern Himalayas. Over the past six years, we have established 14 universities, with 12 more currently in progress, significantly expanding opportunities for advanced learning and research. Prestigious institutions such as the upcoming Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University of Excellence, the National Law University, the fully functional State Pharmacy College at Sazong Rumtek, and the National Institute of Technology at Ravangla are positioning Sikkim as an academic hub of excellence.
Presently, Sikkim boasts a State University, a Central University, a Central Agricultural University, twelve State government colleges- including the State Institute of Science and Technology, a Law College, a B.Ed College, and specialised institutes like the Sikkim Institute of Higher Nyingma Studies- and a growing network of vocational institutions. Several of these colleges have extended post-graduate courses, catering to a wider range of academic aspirations.
Our progress in higher education has been further strengthened by the Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA), through which Sikkim has implemented reforms aimed at improving access, equity, quality and global competitiveness. Under RUSA 1.0, we introduced vocational courses, upgraded infrastructure, and established professional colleges, while RUSA 2.0 has enabled the creation of new model degree colleges, extensive campus modernisation, smart classrooms, language labs, and enhanced digital connectivity. Seven of our colleges are already NAAC- accredited, and our vision is to bring all government colleges under NAAC accreditation, making them multidisciplinary, autonomous and aligned with NEP 2020.
In secondary education, we have taken bold steps to redefine quality and inclusivity. The Chief Minister’s Model School at Assam Lingzey, inaugurated in 2024, is the first of its kind in Sikkim, fully residential, under the Chief Minister’s Merit Scholarship Scheme, and entirely state funded. This institution offers world class facilities including smart classrooms, AI and VR laboratories, a modern library, and comfortable hostels, with all expenses such as uniforms, textbooks, food, and lodging being borne by the Government. The First batch of 59 meritorious students has already begun their journey, setting a new benchmark for excellence in government schooling.
To further support academic excellence, the Chief Minister’s Mission Lakshya Centre of Excellence has been launched in collaboration with Q&I, Thomson Digital, offering specialisedcoaching for NEET and JEE aspirants. Located at the PM Shri Sir Tashi Namgyal Senior Secondary School in Gangtok, the programme currently supports 80 top performing students, and will soon expand to Namchi. By providing high quality preparation within the State, we are empowering our youth to compete on national and global platforms without having to leave their home state.
These achievements are further reinforced by a strong and inclusive scholarship framework designed to ensure that financial limitations never become a barrier to education. The Chief Minister’s Merit Scholarship Scheme (CMMSS), launched in 2010, supports meritorious students from marginalised families. For the academic year 2025-26, seventy-four students were selected through a state-level examination, including five from Lachen, Lachung and Chungthang under an exclusive reservation introduced in 2024. Since 2021, a 4 percent horizontal reservation has been provided for Children with Special Needs. Under this scheme, the top ten girl students were admitted to the prestigious Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya in Gwalior while the top five boys secured admission to Tashi Namgyal Academy with all expenses borne. Additionally, 59 meritorious students were admitted to the Chief Minister’s Model School at Assam Lingzey. As of 2025, a total of 1288 students have benefited under CMMSS within and outside the State, with notable successes such as securing MBBS admission as RIMS through NEET. From 2024, ten students annually are also admitted to Class IX at Pinegrove School, Himachal Pradesh. Recognising the need for continued support, CMMSS has been extended to the graduation level, covering registration, tuition, accommodation, and examination fees. In 2025, the Prerna and Merit Scholarship Scheme was introduced, selecting students from the Class V CMMSS merit list across all sub-divisions- benefitting 90 students in Class VI and 36 in Class IX in its first year. Complementing these is the Chief Minister’s Education Assistance Scheme (CMEAS), which provides financial aid to students from economically weaker sections, marginalized communities and specially-abled groups.
Owing to the various interventions of the State Government, we have achieved remarkable improvements in our board examination results. In Class 10, the pass percentage rose sharply to 76.66% in 2025 from 61.62% in 2024, while the proportion of students in the “essential repeat” category fell from 3.71% to just 0.99%. Similarly, in Class 12, the overall pass percentage improved to 88.90% in 2025 from 87.55% in 2024, with the “essential repeat” rate declining from 4.15% to 3.77%.
From early childhood education to advanced research, and backed by robust scholarship and financial support systems, Sikkim’s educational journey reflects a holistic vision—rooted in inclusivity, driven by excellence, and committed to nurturing a generation of skilled, confident, and socially responsible citizens who will lead our State towards a prosperous, sustainable, and empowered future.
Another area of topmost focus for the State government is ensuring that basic amenities such as electricity, drinking water supply and all-weather roads reach every nook and cranny in the state. These three essentials form the backbone of everyday life viz electricity powers homes, businesses, and public services; clean drinking water safeguards health and well-being; and all-weather roads connect communities, enable trade, and ensure access to education, healthcare, and opportunities. In pursuit of this, the government has laid prime focus on the Bijuli-Pani-Sadak initiative; the infrastructural and development trifecta that is dedicated to the achievement and sustaining of our developmental goals.
In the power sector, Sikkim possesses the potential to generate thousands of megawatts of hydropower, a resource that not only fulfills the State’s energy requirements but also contributes significantly to the national power grid. Despite the severe setback caused by the October 2023 floods—which destroyed the Teesta III project and its adjoining dam, leading to a significant loss of generation capacity—we have swiftly rebounded. Through the rapid restoration of power lines and services, we have demonstrated our unwavering commitment to ensuring uninterrupted energy access for every citizen.
Building on these efforts, the State Government has launched the Sikkim Power Sector Development Project (SPSDP), a transformative initiative to provide 24×7 quality and reliable power to all households, industries and commercial establishments in the state.
With a total project outlay of Rs. 1607.78 crores, this initiative is being implemented with assistance from the Asian Development Bank to create a climate-resilient and renewable-ready power system that will support our state’s transition to sustainable energy. A major part of this project focuses on modernizing and strengthening Sikkim’s power distribution network. This includes the installation of 1,350 km of climate-resilient 11kV distribution lines, the augmentation of 460 distribution transformers and the upgrading of 26 substations with SCADA systems to enhance monitoring and operational efficiency. Supporting our rural and remote communities, 15,000 energy -efficient public streetlights are going to be installed along with awareness programs to educate on electricity use, conservation and safety.
Additionally, we have been able to reduce the gap between Average Cost of Supply and Average Revenue (ACS-ARR) from Rs. 1.29/unit to Rs. 0.98/unit in the last financial year. The objective is to further achieve ZERO GAP in ACS-ARR by March 2026 through improved revenue, planned resource adequacy and manpower planning. Additionally, the State government is further working towards reducing the Aggregate Techno-Commercial (AT&C) losses to less than 15 percent which is the national average. These achievements and goals are possible by working through the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) launched by the Ministry of Power, Government of India, as it enabled us to take decisive steps to modernize power infrastructure while reducing losses and improving efficiency. A significant step in this transformation is the implementation of smart pre-paid metering and power system up-gradation and modernisation. These pre-paid smart meters will revolutionize the way power is consumed-eliminating discrepancies in billing, preventing power theft, and enable the citizens to monitor and manage their usage in real time.
The state government is working towards adding more transmission infrastructure to match domestic and industrial load trajectory. A comprehensive scheme for the same along with providing a power evacuation corridor for upcoming IPP hydropower projects is currently under execution.
Providing clean and safe drinking water to all rural households is another key priority for the State government, pursued through the successful implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission. Under this initiative, the ongoing National Rural Drinking Water Programme(NRDWP) has been restructured and subsumed to achieve Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTC) i.e Har Ghar Nal Se Jal to every rural household. Leveraging our state’s resources, 91 percent of the total rural households in the state- 1,20,910 out of 1,31,880 have been provided with these connections with only 8.32 percent still to be covered. Under the Har Ghar Jal initiative, the state government has made significant strides in ensuring universal drinking water access at the block, panchayat, village and habitation levels. The mission has already achieved coverage in six blocks, 86 panchayats, 212 villages and 1853 habitations. Moreover, to ensure uninterrupted access to clean drinking water in rural areas, the state government has launched the Nal Jal Mitra initiative, where the State Institute of Capacity Building is providing trainings in enhancing technical skills and water management expertise among rural water supply facilitators. The state government has also sanctioned multiple water worksto ensure comprehensive urban water supply.
In addition to these, we have also made remarkable progress in road connectivity, achieving a total road length of 769 kilometres, with over 300 number of unconnected habitations getting connected. Currently, we are working on 44 various roads of length measuring 283.83 Kms, and 20 Long Span Bridges sanctioned under PMGSY-III. The state government is also executing 3 roads of 18.73 Kms and 8 Long Span Bridges sanctioned under Vibrant Village Programme, as per the guidelines of PMGSY, that will undoubtedly strengthen connectivity across different terrain.
Furthermore, in view of connecting the remaining unconnected habitations, the state government will implement the PMGSY-IV, under which habitations with a population of more than 250 shall be considered for connectivity. All such habitations have been identified, mapped and surveyed and the government is currently preparing the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for submission to the Ministry of Rural Development for obtaining sanction under this programme.
We remain committed to developing a robust and dependable road network in Sikkim to ensure overall social and economic development of the state and the people.
The State Government recognizes tourism as an indispensable pillar of Sikkim’s identity and economic growth. Contributing 9.48 percent to the State’s GSDP at current prices and supporting nearly 18 percent of our population through direct and indirect livelihoods, tourism stands as a powerful driver of prosperity. Acknowledging its role as a major engine for economic growth, employment generation, and poverty alleviation, the Government has placed this sector at the very forefront of our developmental priorities.
The augmentation of world class tourism infrastructure, adherence to quality standards, and promotion of responsible sustainable tourism have placed Sikkim firmly on the global tourism map, earning accolades from across the world.
Since 2019 our state has received special awards from the Government of India and from well-regarded media for travellers like Most Promising Rural and Homestay Destination, Best Sustainable Tourism Practising State, Award of Excellence on Eco, Adventure and Rural Tourism, Most Promising New Destination – Soreng and Most Scenic Route in India’ ‘Zuluk’, among others. With skilled human resources in the hospitality and service sectors backed by robust infrastructure, Sikkim has undergone a remarkable transformation in its tourism profile.
The state government remains committed to developing and promoting sustainable tourism that safeguards our natural heritage and unique culture while boosting local economies and livelihoods. This will be achieved through a multi-pronged approach including leisure, ecotourism, adventure, cultural and religious tourism, village homestays, health and wellness tourism, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions). We aim to attract high-value, long-stay tourists by ensuring exceptional hospitality, and to support these diverse experiences, the government is undertaking major infrastructural enhancements such as:
● The state-of-the-art Convention Center in Namli, designed to host significant national and international conferences, exhibitions and corporate events, positioning Sikkim on prominent global business and tourism circuits,
● The eco-friendly ropeway from Dhapper to Bhaleydhunga and the passenger ropeway from PellingHelipad to Sangacholing Monastery that will offer unparalleled views while enhancing religious and adventure tourism.
● A skywalk at Bhaleydhunga in Namchi District that will offer a breathtaking 360-degree view of the landscape and the transformation of Singshore Bridge into a glass skywalk bridge in Gyalshing District that promises to attract thrill-seekers and international tourists.
● Strengthening of religious and pilgrimage tourism by upgrading facilities to accommodate the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra at 18th mile (J.N.Road) and HanguLake (near Baba Mandir), Gangtok District.
● Development of the Border experience at Nathula to boost cultural, economic, social, and ecological exchanges.
● Construction of tourist walkway, Yak trails, viewpoints, landscaping & development of TsomgoLake, Gangtok District
● Development of Mangarjung at Mangsari, SorengDistrict.
● Construction of Eco Tourism Pilgrimage (BrindabhanDham) at Dodak, Soreng District.
● Construction of Four Patron Saints of Sikkim at Yuksom, Gyalshing District.
● Development of Regional Kirat Rai Linguistic and Cultural Research Centre, Kirat Rai Mangkhim, KiratRai Manokamna at Pareng Goan, Soreng District.
● Development of Rabindranath Tagore Park, Cultural Centre at Meghi Dara Rinchenpong, SorengDistrict.
Under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 Scheme of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, two destinations i.e Gangtok and Gyalshing Districts have been selected for their sustainable and holistic development. Projects sanctioned include the Gangtok Cultural Village and Eco-well Experience at Yuksom. This is a major achievement for our state because it demonstrates not only the faith in our potential but also the effectiveness of our tourism policy, which focuses on balanced, pan-state development rather than concentrating solely on specific areas.
Sikkim rural hinterlands are blessed with unparalleled natural beauty, heritage sites and unique cultural charm. The State government believes that visitors should have the opportunity to experience rural life while gaining insight into Sikkimese culture through Village Homestays. The traditional hospitality of our diverse ethnic groups complemented by local cuisine, village walks and cultural programmes, offers an experience like no other. Through the Mega Homestay Project, we are constructing 1000 homestays across the state. This fresh concept of Village Tourism aims to redefine holidaying- offering rest and relaxation in a serene natural environment.
Global developments compel us to act with foresight and innovation in preparing our youth for the opportunities and challenges of the future. We must nurture entrepreneurship, strengthen skills and open avenues for both local and global employment. Traditionally, Sikkim has not been an entrepreneur and enterprise- driven society, but this is changing. The state government is committed to dedicating substantial policy and financial resources to foster a vibrant entrepreneurship ecosystem that will serve not only our state but also our nation and the world.
We have adopted the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Policy, 2022, to create an enabling environment for our entrepreneurs — offering awareness programmes, skill training, incubation services, and comprehensive support.
We are also expanding international opportunities for our youth. Following the successful placement of nurses in Germany, we are now providing language training in Korean, Japanese and Mandarin to prepare them for overseas careers. Under the India-Japan Technical Intern Training Programme, our young people will receive specialised training aligned with the needs of the global workforce. Workshops in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs are preparing our youth to meet international skill standards, opening pathways for careers abroad. The World Bank supported Sikkim INSPIRES programme is revitalisingour rich legacy of handicrafts and handlooms while promoting the creative economy.
Local entrepreneurs will be given priority in the allocation of State-owned commercial properties and small hydel projects of up to 5 MW capacity, along with financial support for their development. We are also encouraging innovation in design, eco-friendly production methods, and digital marketing to help our artisans compete in global markets.
We have also introduced the new Industrial and Investment Policy 2023 to promote selective, balanced and green development of the State, ensuring that industrialisation benefits local communities while attracting responsible domestic and foreign investments. Industrial estates will be developed in every district each with at least 15 acres, supported by modern infrastructure, power supply, and logistics facilities. Flatted factory complexes are being planned for high-value MSME clusters, allowing small businesses to operate from fully serviced spaces. The Sikkim Industrial and Investment Promotion Board will serve as a single-window platform for all investors, streamlining approvals and ensuring transparency.
We have fully digitalised the issuance process through the National and State Single Window System, making it easier than ever to start and expand businesses in Sikkim. A State-level Innovation Hub has been established as a nerve centre for nurturing entrepreneurial ideas, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and promoting design-centric growth. District-level incubation centres will soon follow, linked with training institutions and universities, to decentralise innovation and support entrepreneurs across the state.
Through Central and State interventions, over 4,500 entrepreneurs—particularly in tourism, food processing, and organic agriculture—have been empowered, generating jobs and driving local economic growth.
Livelihood schools will be upgraded into sector-specific academies in key areas such as tourism and hospitality, beauty and wellness, information technology and IT enabled services, creative design, green jobs and child and elderly care. We are expanding vocational education to align with emerging industries, ensuring our workforce is future-ready.
Sikkim has achieved significant milestones in its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability through innovative and impactful initiatives. Our state proudly maintains a 100% compliance rate with environmental standards for industries- an achievement that reflects our dedication to sustainable industrial practices and environmental protection.
On World Wetland Day, February 02, 2025, we celebrated the recognition of our dedicated conservation efforts with the sacred Khechoedpalri Lake being officially designated as a Ramsar site, becoming Sikkim’s first Wetland of international importance. The honor places the lake among globally recognized ecosystems vital for biodiversity conservation, ecological balance and community sustenance, while also opening avenues for economic benefits of the local communities.
The government’s flagship initiative, Mero Rukh Mero Santati, mandates the planting of 108 trees to celebrate the birth of each child, fostering a lifelong bond between parents, children and nature. Accompanied by a rigorous, outcome-based assessment framework, the visionary project was recognized and showcased at COP28 held at Dubai, earning national and international acclaim as an innovative Himalayan approach to one of the world’s most urgent challenges- climate change. Since its launch, the initiative has recorded over 5000 registrations, standing as a testament to its widespread acceptance and success.
To complement this, we have launched the Sikkim Sishu Samriddhi Yojana, which provides a fixed deposit of Rs. 10,800 for children whose parents successfully complete the plantation requirement- ensuring that environmental responsibility also brings tangible benefits to families.
In our efforts to deepen public engagement in wildlife conservation, we introduced the “My child from the Wild” programme, allowing individuals or groups to adopt animals in partnership with park management. Alongside this, the Mero Bato Mero Bot initiative is transforming our roadsides into vibrant green corridors. These initiatives not only raise public awareness about wildlife conservation but also improve animal care facilities, encourage public sponsorship, and enrich Sikkim’s green governance practices.
As Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi said “the soul of India lies in its villages”, the state government firmly believes that the pulse of Sikkim lies in its rural hinterlands. Rural development is at the core of our policies, supported by efficient decentralisedgovernance and flagship Government of India schemes. Schemes like MGNREGA have evolved into a powerful livelihood and asset-creation initiatives while our homegrown Dhara Vikas Model has recharged over 1,035 million litres of groundwater annually, revived 51 natural springs and 6 lakes and benefitted 20 drought-prone Gram Panchayats.
Through the Sikkim Rural Livelihood Mission, we are empowering Self Help Groups, forming 166 producer groups, launching the Lakhpati Didi initiative, and setting up 10 integrated farming clusters. Under DAY-NRLM, 963 enterprises have been created and tailoring producer groups have generated over Rs. 5 crores through school uniform production. Platforms like Swayam Sikkim, SARAS Fairs, and MG Marg stalls, along with credit linkages and digital banking initiatives, are bringing rural products to wider markets and ensuring financial inclusion. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly and persons with disabilities, were also being mobilised into SHGs for dignity and livelihoods.
Our agriculture and livestock sector continues to thrive through flagship initiatives such as the Milk and Pig Production Incentive Schemes and the introduction of Bureau of Indian Standards (Type–1) cattle feed. Extensive fodder management programmes and widespread awareness campaigns have further boosted milk production across the State. Since 2020, the State Government has disbursed over ₹65 crores to dairy farmers under the Milk Production Incentive Scheme.
When the Sikkim Milk Union began operations in 1980, it procured just over 2,191 litres of milk per day from 56 Dairy Cooperative Societies present. Today, in 2025, the Union procures on average 65,000 to 68,000 litres daily from around 13,000 registered members. On 17 June 2025, it achieved a historic milestone by recording its highest-ever procurement—71,249 litres in a single day.
Recently, we have been able to establish 20 new milk collection centres and launch 16 new dairy and sweet products through the Sikkim Milk Union, further strengthening our cooperative movement and rural economy.
In sanitation, Sikkim has made history by becoming the 1st ODF Plus Model State, excelling in both solid and liquid waste management and winning various national awards. We have instituted the “Cleanest Gram Panchayat Awards” to foster healthy competition and ranked among the top three smaller states in Swachh Survekshan Gramin. Seven mobile Treatment Units, 14 waste collection vehicles, 8 plastic waste management units, and thousands of toilets, compost pits, and soak pits have been built, empowering communities to manage waste sustainably and generate income from recyclables.
Our vision is clear- to make every village a self-sustaining hub of sanitation, water security, livelihood, climate resilience and social equity. Through innovation, community participation, and relentless effort, we are building a rural Sikkim that is strong, sustainable, and truly the pride of our state.
Nestled in the heart of the eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is home to 320 glacial lakes, many of which are expanding due to rapid glacial retreat driven by accelerated climate change. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has identified 189 high-risk glacial lakes in India of which 40 are located in Sikkim, posing a serious threat to our people and everything we have ever worked for. The State government is addressing this critical concern through scientific research, technological innovation and community-based resilience strategies.
The South Lhonak disaster that hit our state in October of 2023 was a stark reminder of the nature in our fragile Himalayan ecosystem. To prevent such tragedies in the future and address the looming threat of Glacial Lake Outburst Flood, we have constituted a high-level steering Committee and a Multi-Disciplinary task force.
The mitigation of GLOFs demands close collaboration between glaciologists, ecologists, geographers, geologists, structural engineers, hydropower specialists, scientists and disaster management experts. To this end, the government has adopted a comprehensive “whole-of-the-government” approach, bringing together the Departments of Science and Technology, Land Revenue and Disaster Management and Mines and Geology, among others.
The Department of Science and Technology has been designated as the nodal agency, supported by an adept engineering team to bridge the gap in technical expertise and ensure the preparation of mitigation Detailed Project Reports (DPRs). For the first time in the country, Sikkim has developed a DPR on GLOF Risk Mitigation of Shako Chho Lake and a preliminary proposal for watershed-level retention structure in Lhonak.
Numerous field studies like bathymetric surveys, electrical resistivity tomography, hydrology studies, slope stability assessments have been conducted to reduce risks and position Sikkim as a model for glacial hazard resilience.
As we are aware, traditionally, large cardamom, buck wheat, and other horticultural crops have sustained thousands of farming households for generations; a unique hallmark of our rural economy. However, in recent decades, climate change-induced diseases, soil degradation, and genetic vulnerability have led to a sharp decline in yield and production.
Recognizing the urgency of this situation, the state government has launched the “Mero Alaichi, Mero Dhan” initiative to combat the diseases afflicting large cardamon. In partnership with leading research institutions, we are analyzing root causes, undertaking a baseline survey, developing diagnostic kits and even working on RNA vaccines for viral diseases. To enhance the crop’s genetic resilience, research in genome sequencing, conventional plant breeding and mutation breeding are underway alongside pathogenic studies on the large cardamon leaf blight fungal disease.
In Sikkim, Cancer is not just a disease- it is a growing public health concern with the number of cancer cases doubling in the period 2014-24. The state government recognises the urgent need to address underlying causes and focus on prevention strategies grounded in scientific evidence. Our vision is to significantly reduce cancer mortality rate by emphasisingprevention and early detection.
In the coming months, we will launch the first coordinated public education campaign, using social media to promote behavioral changes needed in dietary habits and lifestyle that can reduce cancer risks. Additionally, in collaboration with the Department of Health Research, Government of India and the India Council of Medical Research (ICMR), we will organize early detection screening camps in the villages and towns across the state to identify cases at an early stage and improve treatment outcomes.
My dear citizens,
It is my privilege today to reflect upon the strides the Government has made towards strengthening not just the administrative framework of our State, but also the well-being, dignity and professional growth of our employees. Since 2019, the State Government has worked tirelessly to ensure that our policies and actions translate into real benefits for those who serve the people of Sikkim.
We have ensured that opportunities for service are open, fair and merit based. Between 2019 and July 2025, we have made 1172 appointments through direct recruitment at various levels, alongside 464 compassionate appointments, ensuring that families of our departed colleagues receive the care and consideration they deserve.
Promotions have been carried out on an unprecedented scale. In Group A and Group B, including the All-India Services, over 3124 promotions have been granted, reflecting our belief in recognising’
