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Gangtok : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended his heartfelt congratulations to the people of Sikkim as the state marked its 50th anniversary of statehood, highlighting the region’s journey from integration to a beacon of democratic and sustainable development. Addressing the public virtually, PM Modi said he had made every effort to attend the celebrations in person but was prevented by inclement weather.

“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,” PM Modi said. “But such a magnificent scene is in front of me, where people are everywhere. I apologise to all of you. But as the Chief Minister has invited me, I assure you that whenever the state government decides, I will come to Sikkim and attend the celebrations of Sikkim completing 50 years of statehood.”

Despite not being physically present, the Prime Minister virtually laid the foundation and inaugurated multiple development projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, and tourism in the Himalayan state. Key among these were:

• A new 500-bedded District Hospital in Namchi district, worth over Rs 750 crore, expected to greatly improve healthcare delivery in South Sikkim.

• A passenger ropeway at Sangachoeling, Pelling in Gyalshing district, aimed at boosting tourism and improving local connectivity.

• The unveiling of a statue of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Atal Amrit Udyan in Sangkhola, Gangtok district, commemorating the former Prime Minister’s legacy.

Reflecting on the state’s democratic evolution, PM Modi said, “Sikkim decided a democratic future for itself 50 years ago. The people of Sikkim believed that when everyone’s voice is heard and rights are protected, equal opportunities for progress emerge.”

He praised the state for emerging as a model of ecological preservation and development, and lauded its citizens for their contributions. “In these 50 years, such stars have emerged from Sikkim who have illuminated India’s sky,” he said, referring to the state’s contributions in sports, arts, and public service.