Sikkim Celebrates 50th Statehood Day: CM Tamang Calls for a United, Prosperous Future

He stressed the importance of building a forward-looking, inclusive, environmentally conscious Sikkim.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang extended his warmest greetings to the people of Sikkim on the 50th anniversary of the state’s statehood. In a statement, he reflected on Sikkim’s journey since May 16, 1975, when it formally joined the Indian Union, embracing a democratic and prosperous future.

“It is with immense pride and gratitude that I address you on this golden occasion,” Tamang said. “As we commemorate this historic milestone, we reflect on the past five decades, a journey marked by resilience, inclusive growth, cultural preservation, and the collective spirit of our people.”

The Chief Minister reaffirmed his commitment to a “Sunaulo Sikkim, Samridha Sikkim, ani Samarth Sikkim” (Golden, Prosperous, and Capable Sikkim), aligning this vision with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mission of a “Viksit Bharat.” He stressed the importance of building a forward-looking, inclusive, environmentally conscious Sikkim, deeply rooted in its unique identity and values.

Tamang paid tribute to the legacy of the former Kingdom of Sikkim, whose leadership laid the foundations of the state’s social fabric and constitutional safeguards, including the Sikkim Subject status and Article 371F, which protect the rights, traditions, land, and autonomy of its people.

Highlighting the state’s achievements, he noted that Sikkim has become India’s first organic state, a leader in climate resilience, and a model of communal harmony. The state also boasts the highest per capita income in the country and a globally recognized commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Our strength lies in our people, the Bhutia, Lepcha, Nepali, and other communities who have coexisted in harmony and enriched our society through their diversity,” Tamang said. “We have made transformative progress in education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, environmental protection, and social welfare.”

He praised Sikkim’s resilience in the face of challenges like the 2011 earthquake, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2023 GLOF disaster, noting the collective strength of the Sikkimese people in rebuilding their communities.

Looking ahead, the Chief Minister urged the people of Sikkim to draw inspiration from their past and work together to build a brighter, more sustainable future. “As we step into the next 50 years, let us nurture our environment, preserve our traditions, empower our youth, and uphold the ideals of unity, integrity, and excellence,” he said.

Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also extended his congratulations, joining in the celebration of Sikkim’s golden jubilee of statehood.

Also Read: Sikkim’s Aarogya Dahal Finishes As 2nd Runner-Up at Malaysian Karting Championship

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