16/05/2025
On this historic day, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Sikkim’s Statehood, I extend my warmest greetings and heartiest congratulations to every Sikkimese.
May 16, 1975, marked a momentous turning point in our history. It was the day Sikkim formally joined the Indian Union, embracing a future filled with promise, unity, and democratic aspirations. As we commemorate this golden jubilee, we reflect with reverence on the journey of the past five decades—a journey marked by resilience, inclusive growth, cultural preservation, and the collective spirit of our people.
On this significant milestone, we renew our commitment to a Sunaulo Sikkim, Samridha Sikkim, ani Samarth Sikkim—a Golden, Prosperous, and Capable Sikkim. This vision aligns with our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji’s mission of Viksit Bharat. Together, we work to build a Sikkim that is forward-looking, inclusive, environmentally conscious, and deeply rooted in its identity and values.
We pay homage to the legacy of the Kingdom of Sikkim, whose leadership laid the foundations of our identity, institutions, and social fabric. The enduring relevance of the Sikkim Subject status and the protections enshrined in Article 371F are testaments to our unique history and constitutional journey. These rights continue to safeguard our traditions, land, and autonomy.
Over the last five decades, Sikkim has emerged as a leader among Indian states in several sectors. We take immense pride in being India’s first organic state, a champion of climate resilience, a model of communal harmony, and a beacon of development. Our per capita income is the highest in the country, and our commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is globally recognized.
Sikkim’s strength lies in its people—the Bhutia, Lepcha, Nepali, and other communities who have coexisted in harmony and enriched our society through their diversity. Our shared cultural heritage, ecological consciousness, and democratic spirit are the bedrock of our development model.
We have made transformative progress in education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, environmental protection, and social welfare. From free education and inclusive health schemes to support for mothers, children, and differently-abled citizens, we have built an ecosystem that prioritizes human dignity and holistic development.
Our tourism, rooted in community participation and eco-consciousness, showcases Sikkim’s sacred landscapes and vibrant traditions to the world. In the face of challenges like the 2011 earthquake, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2023 GLOF disaster, our people stood united—rebuilding with compassion, courage, and an unwavering sense of purpose.
We deeply value the partnership of the Government of India, whose support has been instrumental in every step of our journey. As a strategic border state, we reaffirm our role as custodians of national integrity and peace.
As we step into the next 50 years, let us draw inspiration from our past and shape a future filled with possibilities. Let us nurture our environment, preserve our traditions, empower our youth, and uphold the ideals of unity, integrity, and excellence.
On this golden jubilee of statehood, I call upon every Sikkimese—young and old, across every village and town—to come together with renewed energy and dedication to build the Sikkim of our dreams.
Let us move forward, hand in hand, to realise the vision of a Viksit Sikkim within a Viksit Bharat.
Jai Hind! Jai Sikkim!
