Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, April 28 inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth over Rs 4,000 crore in Sikkim, marking a key milestone during the closing ceremony of the state’s 50th Year of Statehood celebrations held at Paljor Stadium.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said that several developmental initiatives currently being implemented could have been undertaken earlier, alleging that previous governments led by Indian National Congress had delayed the state’s progress. He stated that development in Sikkim has accelerated following the rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party at the Centre, highlighting that railway connectivity is set to reach the state for the first time.

According to an official statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the projects span multiple sectors, including infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, education, power, urban development, environment, tourism, and agriculture. The initiatives are aimed at promoting comprehensive and inclusive growth across the Himalayan state.

In the healthcare sector, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a 100-bedded Ayurveda hospital at Yangang in Namchi district. He also inaugurated a 30-bedded Integrated Sowa Rigpa Hospital at NIT Deorali, aimed at strengthening traditional and integrative healthcare systems in Sikkim.

In the education sector, several major projects were launched. These include the inauguration of the permanent campus of Sikkim University at Yangang, the administrative block of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University of Excellence at Chakung, Helen Lepcha Medical College at Socheygang in Gangtok district, and Dentam Professional College in Dentam, Gyalshing district.

The Prime Minister’s visit and the rollout of these projects coincide with the golden jubilee celebrations of Sikkim’s statehood, underscoring the Centre’s focus on strengthening infrastructure and public services in strategically significant northeastern states.