26.01.2024 : Address of Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim on the occasion of Republic Day.

Dear Citizens,

As we gather to commemorate the Republic Day of our great nation, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the people of Sikkim and the entire country. This day holds immense significance in our history, symbolizing the inception of our Constitution and the values it upholds—equality, liberty, and justice for all.

This auspicious occasion serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and relentless efforts of our forebearers and freedom fighters who dedicated their lives to securing the sovereignty we cherish today. Their commitment and valour have paved the way for our nation’s progress and development. Let us seize this moment to express our heartfelt gratitude and honor their sacrifices.On this day, let us also express our deep respect and gratitude to those great visionary sages who gave us the written Constitution, which is the basis of our nation building.
At the outset, I would like to address the catastrophic disaster our beloved state encountered on the intervening night of October 3rd and 4th, 2023, resulting in grievous loss of lives and widespread damage to government, civil, and private properties.
I extend my deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this tragedy. Also, I would like to assure you that my Government has taken adequate measures to provide relief to the affected families and is in the process of implementing them. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to the National Crisis Management Committee, chaired by the Cabinet Secretary, along with the Home Secretary and esteemed officers of the Government of India. We also extend our appreciation to the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Border Road Organization, NHIDCL, National Disaster Relief Force, and the National Disaster Management Authority for their tireless and unwavering efforts in managing this crisis.

Special recognition is owed to the exceptional individuals, teams, societies, and associations outside of the state machinery who selflessly extended their help during this critical period. The collective effort of our state, providing shelter, food, medical assistance, and emotional support to those affected, showcases our community’s unity and resilience. In times of adversity, we transcend being merely residents of Sikkim; we stand as a united family, drawing strength from our unity.
To provide long-term solutions aimed at mitigating the plight of the victims affected by the catastrophic Teesta Flash Floods, my Governmenthas introduced two new housing schemes: the “Sikkim Punarvaas Awaas Yojana” (SPAY) and the “Sikkim Janta Housing Colony” (SJHC).
The “Sikkim Punarvaas Awaas Yojana” (SPAY) aims to construct 2100 houses in safe and suitable locations, intending to allocate them to homeowners whose houses have been completely destroyed or severely/partially damaged beyond habitation due to the Teesta Flash Floods. These houses will be constructed on government-owned land or land allocated/acquired explicitly for this purpose.
In the “Sikkim Janta Housing Colony,” the proposal is to build 2000 houses in a secure and appropriate location to accommodate tenants whose houses have been completely washed away or severely/partially damaged, rendering them uninhabitable due to the floods. These tenants will be allotted houses under this scheme on a “Rental basis.” However, for the initial three years, no rent will be levied by the Government.

Dear Citizens,

With immense pride, I announce that the recent India Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) Report by NITI Aayog has positioned Sikkim with the third-lowest percentage (3.82%) of multidimensionally poor populations in India. Sikkim stands proudly at the 8th position nationally, securing the 1st rank in the North East. Notably, Gangtok District has emerged as the best-performing district among the 103 in the North East Region in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) index. Furthermore, Sikkim’s Soreng District has claimed the top spot among 112 districts nationwide under the Aspirational District Programme for May 2023, showcasing significant progress in various socio-economic indicators.
The ‘Mero Rukh Mero Santati’ initiative launched in 2023 by my government, which aims to foster a deep connection between parents, children, and nature by planting 108 trees for every newborn in Sikkim, received special recognition at the United Nations Climate Change Conferences, particularly at COP 28 in Dubai. Symbolizing the growth of the child, these trees contribute significantly to the environment, with over 300,000 plantations completed till date.

Dear citizens,

The Credit-to-GSDP ratio in the State of Sikkim has seen remarkable growth. Rising from the lowest position among the North-Eastern states, Sikkim has now secured a place among the top three. As of September 30, 2023, the Credit-Deposit (CD) Ratio in our state stands at an encouraging 64 percent. This marks a notable improvement from previous years, reflecting a positive trend in credit accessibility and utilization. Sikkim has gained recognition as one of the leading mountain states with exceptional financial inclusion, achieving full banking coverage across all blocks, leaving no area unbanked. As of September 30, 2023, Gyalshing district has successfully attained 100 percent digital enablement. Moreover, the remaining five districts, on average, have surpassed the 90 percent mark in their digital enablement progress.
Sikkim proudly boasts 32 bank branches and 36 ATMs per lakh population, with Gangtok alone having 43 bank branches and 28 ATMs per lakh population. This starkly contrasts with the national average of 14 bank branches per lakh population, vividly showcasing the extensive presence of banks in Sikkim.

I’m also delighted to highlight the remarkable progress our state has achieved across various parameters outlined in the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion. Notably, our coverage under the PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) stands impressively at 117 percent of PM Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) accounts, a significant leap beyond the national average of 35 percent. Similarly, our success under the PM Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) is outstanding, with a coverage of 239 percent of PMJDY accounts, far surpassing the national average of 79 percent. This significant achievement underscores our commitment not only to cover PMJDY accounts but also to extend the benefits of PMJJBY and PMSBY to non-PMJDY accounts across our state.Our achievements extend further with the Atal Pension Yojana (APY), where we have achieved commendable coverage of 40 percent, surpassing the national average.

Dear citizens,

Our strides in the healthcare sector are commendable. The state has witnessed significant advancements, marked by a steadfast commitment to ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for every citizen. My government took a significant step by establishing the Neurosurgery Department at STNM in November 2020 amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The appointment of two neurosurgeons marked a crucial development, especially considering the absence of neurosurgeons within the state’s government setup prior to this initiative.
Patients with neurological issues were previously compelled to seek treatment in hospitals in Siliguri and larger cities, presenting challenges for both patients and their families. Since its establishment, the Neurosurgery Department at STNM has admitted and treated over 2000 patients, with more than 5000 outpatient consultations conducted. The successful completion of over 500 major surgeries in the operation theater stands as a testament to the tremendous progress achieved in the health sector.Notable achievements include trans nasal brain tumour surgery and intracranial aneurysm surgery.In 2023, the Neurosurgery Department successfully conducted an endovascular procedure, reflecting its commitment to advancing medical capabilities.

My government has further achieved a significant milestone by installing the Electrophysiology Study (EPS) and Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) facilities at the STNM Hospital’s Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, a feat accomplished on the 12thof December 2022. The EPS plays a crucial role in assessing and treating heart rhythm disorders, while the IVUS technology offers precise analysis of blockages within coronary arteries. This accurate analysis is pivotal for devising optimal therapeutic interventions for heart-related ailments.
This achievement is particularly noteworthy as these facilities were previously unavailable across North Bengal and Sikkim. By bringing in state-of-the-art medical technologies, we aim to elevate our cardiac care capabilities and ensure that our residents receive the most advanced and comprehensive treatments available in the field of cardiology.

Additionally, to ensure the well-being of our students, ambulances have been allocated to 8 Government Colleges, namely, Nar Bahadur Bhandari Government College, Tadong, Sikkim Government College, Burtuk, Sikkim Government College, Rhenock, Sikkim Government College, Namchi Sancha Man Limboo Government College, Gyalshing, Sikkim Government Arts College, Mangshila, Sikkim Government Vocational College, and Dentam Sikkim Government Science College, Chakung, guaranteeing timely medical treatment when needed.

Additionally, the Mukhya Mantri SwasthyaSuvida Yojana and Chief Minister’s Medical Assistance Scheme, introduced by my government, have been instrumental in providing financial aid, ensuring healthcare access for various segments of our society, including those not covered under existing health schemes. So far, more than Rs. 31 crores/- has been disbursed to over 7,717 patients under the Mukhya Mantri SwasthyaSuvida Yojana.

The Mobile Village Clinic program introduced by my government has extended healthcare services directly to remote communities, conducting over 1,305 camps, benefiting 40,451 patients, and performing 15,863 medical tests. These clinics cater to a comprehensive range of health services, focusing on both Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases, Maternal and Child Health, thereby promoting overall well-being among underserved communities.

Dear citizens,

Our commitment to expanding healthcare infrastructure remains unwavering. The establishment of the Mangan District Hospital and ongoing construction in Singtam, Namchi, and Soreng districts will significantly benefit our citizens, ensuring healthcare access across regions. Moreover, the upcoming Namchi District Hospital is being upgraded from a 300-bedded hospital to a 500-bedded hospital for ensuring better healthcare services to the people.

Notably, our state has shown impressive healthcare indicators, with institutional births at 94.7% and full immunization at 97.9%, surpassing the national averages. However, the decline in Total Fertility Rate (TFR) poses a significant challenge. With a TFR of 1.1, well below the replacement level of 2.1, concerted efforts are necessary to address this concerning trend to avoid demographic implications.
The intervention to address the declining Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in Sikkim falls under DLI 8 (Creation of a comprehensive Care and workplace safety system) within the INSPIRES Program. To tackle this issue, an Expert Group Meeting was organized by the Department of Planning & Development on July 10, 2023, in Gangtok. The meeting gathered medical and policy experts to identify research priorities and create a roadmap for understanding declining fertility rates in the state.

A subsequent report analysed Sikkim’s declining TFR, summarized insights from the Expert Committee Meeting, and provided a comparative assessment of TFR trends across regions, exploring global policy models. To implement necessary steps, an inter-departmental working group has been formed under the INSPIRES Program, involving representatives from Health & Family Welfare, Women & Child Development, Social Welfare, Rural Development, and Sikkim University. The working group has developed short, medium, and long-term action plans.
Short-term actions include organizing an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign on TFR, conducting competitions for designing taglines, creating IEC materials, presenting short skits on TFR, and involving social media influencers. An impact assessment of the Vatsalya scheme is also part of the short-term actions. Medium-term actions involve preparing a research questionnaire by the Health Department, primary data collection by training students from Sikkim University, secondary data analysis, and identifying skills required for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART).

Long-term actions encompass initiating a research study on TFR, linking ART with medical tourism, and exploring partnership opportunities with private players to establish a fertility center in one of the districts with linkages to local businesses.
To support families, we’ve enhanced maternity and paternity benefits for government employees and introduced the ‘Vatsalya’ scheme, aiding those undergoing IVF treatments. As of Dec 2023, 214 employees and 281 members of the public have availed of this benefit. Additionally, starting January 1, 2023, government employees receive one additional increment for their second child and two increments for their third child, encouraging family growth. Cash incentives for second and third child births are also in provision for the general public.
I raised concerns about the declining total fertility rate during the North Eastern Council meeting held at Shillong under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Union Home Minister and Chairman NEC,Shree Amit Shah on January 19, 2024. I have apprised for expert team from the Center to conduct a comprehensive study on this issue and seek cooperation for the same.

Dear citizens,

Our commitment to transforming the education system aligns with the national vision outlined in the National Education Policy 2020, aiming to prepare our youth for a prosperous India by 2047. The education sector remains at the core of our holistic development paradigm, with consistent allocation of over 15% of the state budget to ensure ample resources. The Education Department’s vision encompasses various features aimed at achieving quality education from pre-primary to university levels.
The impactful implementation of the Education Management and Monitoring Information System (EMMIS) has streamlined data collection, enhanced record-keeping, and increased operational efficiency. Utilizing technology, such as the online attendance system, has achieved an impressive 98% adoption rate among schools. EMMIS modernizes administrative workflows, introducing features like customizable report cards and online generation of transfer certificates.

In collaboration with the Vidya Samiksha Kendra (VSK), EMMIS plays a pivotal role in implementing new education policies aligned with the goals of the National Education Policy, promoting transparency, accountability, efficiency, and adaptability.
My government’s commitment to world-class infrastructure is evident in completing 105 new school buildings and allocating over Rs 30 crores for renovating existing structures. Projects worth over 2000 crores are underway in higher education, including centers of excellence, universities, engineering colleges, and vocational colleges.
Ensuring regular teaching faculty is a priority, with my government adopting a policy to regularize teaching faculty after 8 years of probation. Free education, textbooks, uniforms, and additional measures like the Chief Minister’s Merit Scholarship Scheme underline our commitment to educational inclusivity.

Efforts are directed towards establishing educational institutions in remote areas, with nine new universities already established. Special emphasis is laid on higher education with the regularization of Adhoc Assistant Professors, establishment of new Post Graduate Extension Centers, introduction of new departments, and construction of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose University of Excellence.

The Samagra Shiksha Scheme addresses universal access, equity, quality enhancement, vocationalization, and fortification of Teacher Education Institutes. To empower SCERT for academic excellence and research, the government is focused on foundational literacy and numeracy, improving teaching-learning outcomes, and implementing the National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy (NIPUN).

Our commitment to educational exposure is exemplified by organizing trips for students, teachers, and award-winning educators. These trips foster experiential learning and cultural pride, including exposure trips to Teachers who are recipients of National and State Awards and Commendable Certificates. For students, these exposure trips are designed to provide valuable insights and expanding their knowledge about the State and the Country. Additionally, initiatives like the Bahini Scheme, providing free sanitary pads to school-going girls, demonstrate our commitment to the holistic well-being of students.

Dear citizens,

Sikkim has made remarkable advancements in the agriculture and allied sectors by implementing innovative farmer-centric schemes aimed at encouraging farmer participation and ensuring their welfare.
To further bolster organic produce, my government introduced the Mukhya Mantri Atma Nirbhar Yojna in 2020. This scheme incentivizes various agriculture and horticulture commodities, leading to a significant surge in yield despite challenges posed by natural calamities. In 2022-23, Sikkim’s farmers produced a remarkable 102.5784 MT of Spices, 50.7798 MT of Fruits, 93.6459 MT of Vegetables, 47.8689 MT of Roots and Tubers, 226.7526 lakhs Cut Flowers and 3.2699 MT of Loose Flowers.(2022-23).
Under the flagship program, “Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojna (PMKSY)” Per Drop More Crop (PDMC), my Government has covered 13229.60 ha benefiting 32072 numbers of farmers till date.
Prioritizing the well-being of our dairy farmers, the Milk Production Incentive launched in 2021, offering Rs 8 per litre on milk prices, has been widely embraced. This initiative has significantly boosted milk production to 51838 liters per day, benefiting over 15,000 dairy farmers and leading to a notable increase in milk production.

Similarly, the Pig Production Incentive Scheme (PPIS), introduced in 2021 to encourage pig farmers and enhance pork production, has supported nearly 2,000 farmers, resulting in a remarkable increase in the pig population in the State.
Additionally, the Government provides up to 60% subsidy to fish farmers for purchasing fish seeds and fishing equipment under the “Mukhya Mantri Matsya Utpadan Yojana” (MMMUY), aiming to encourage local fish production and ensure economic upliftment for fish farmers. To streamline fisheries-related initiatives, the Sikkim Fisheries Development Board has been established.

Recognizing the potential of organic farming in the state, significant efforts have been directed towards developing certified organic production in a value chain approach. This aims to connect growers with consumers while supporting the entire value chain, starting from inputs, seeds, certification, to facilities for collection, aggregation, processing, marketing, and brand building initiatives.

Under Phase I of the MOVCD-NER scheme, 28 Farmers’ Producers Organisations (FPO’s) were established, benefitting nearly 25,000 beneficiaries. Functional infrastructure such as one aggregation/collection centre, 28 custom hiring centres (CHCs), and 28 transportation vehicles have been established under the management of the FPOs. Approximately Rs 77.0 crores has been spent on this scheme since 2016-17.

In the subsequent phase (Phase III) sanctioned during 2021-22 by the Government of India, an additional 28 FPOs have been promoted, totalling 56. This phase has spent approximately Rs. 3458.84 lakhs, benefiting 18808 farmer beneficiaries, focusing on value chain production, processing, and marketing, similar to Phase I.

Furthermore, the Government of Sikkim has collaborated with M/S IFFCO to establish Sikkim IFFCO Organics Ltd (SIOL), a Joint Venture Company. SIOL aims to create a comprehensive organic value chain system, enhancing farmers’ income by introducing scientific agricultural services and improving post-harvest technology. The venture also focuses on value addition to agricultural produce and market expansion. SIOL has initiated setting up an Integrated Processing Unit in Rangpo, Pakyong District, catering to crops like Buckwheat, Ginger, Turmeric, and Large Cardamom. The trial run for processing these crops is underway, with plans for commissioning by the end of this fiscal year.

Dear citizens,

The State Government of Sikkim has actively fostered an environment promoting press freedom and independence, contributing to the intellectual and spiritual growth of its citizens. Encouraging the development of a vibrant media landscape catering to Sikkim’s needs has been a pivotal focus. Key policies and achievements include organizing the annual National Press Day in collaboration with the Press Club of Sikkim, which recognizes reporting excellence in areas such as women’s issues, climate change, and human rights. The introduction of the Kashiraj Pradhan Lifetime Journalism Award, now awarded biennially, and three additional awards focusing on climate change, women’s issues, and human rights, each carrying a cash prize, has been a significant milestone.

The Government has provided financial support to the Press Club of Sikkim, initially at ₹1,00,000 per annum, later increased to ₹5,00,000. It has actively promoted state policies through advertisements in local/national publications, banners, and digital screens, showcasing the state’s progress and initiatives.

Furthermore, the inauguration of the Press Club Bhawan on National Press Day in December 2020 and the recognition of outstanding journalists, despite the pandemic, during National Press Day, underscore the government’s commitment to the media landscape. Additionally, the establishment of the Sikkim Film Promotion Board under the Government’s purview, the initiation of the Sikkim Film Policy 2020, and subsidies for local filmmakers mark significant strides. The launch of ‘news for the hearing impaired,’ providing news with sign language experts for those with hearing disabilities, emphasizes inclusivity.

Sikkim’s recognition as the Most Film Friendly State at the 67th National Film Awards in 2021 and the commencement of the ‘Grameen Sanchar Abhiyaan’ to disseminate official Government information in rural areas signify the state’s commitment and success enhancing media outreach.

My Government has also initiated the Exposure Tour cum training programme for journalists based out of Sikkim and the officials of the IPR Department. With the object of enabling the journalists to gain insights into the functioning of media and their contribution to the development of the State. This year, an all-women team has been recommended for the visit in a bid to encourage and increase women’s participation in media and journalism. This concerted effort emphasizes the State Government’s commitment to fostering a robust media environment and promoting the arts and communication across Sikkim.

Dear citizens,

The Government of Sikkim has prioritized road connectivity as a cornerstone of its policy and has undertaken various measures to enhance transportation infrastructure. The government has focused on constructing all-weather roads linking District Headquarters and crucial destinations, supported by a dedicated Tunnel Wing for feasibility studies and project execution.
Currently, our state possesses an extensive road network spanning over 5089.59 kilometres, linking major towns, villages, and even the most remote areas through various categories of roads: PMGSY roads covering 1871 kilometres, NHIDCL roads encompassing 255.84 kilometres, BRO roads amounting to 359.39 kilometres, and Roads and Bridges Department roads totalling 2603.37 kilometres.

Dear citizens,

Under my government, we have undertaken a comprehensive range of innovative projects to enhance the tourism sector, providing visitors with an enriched travel experience while exploring our beautiful state. These initiatives focus on developing tourism infrastructure at various hotspots, well-known destinations, and key travel circuits. Notable projects illustrating our dedication to elevating the tourism sector include the Mangarjung Development in Soreng District, the Eco-Tourism Pilgrimage (Brindabhan Dham) at Dodak, Soreng District, the Four Patron Saints at Yuksom, GyalshingDistrict, Nishani Kali Devi pilgrimage site at Budang Gadi, Rolu Mandir in South Sikkim among many others.
Additionally, my government has introduced the Mega Homestay Project, a venture focused on rural tourism development. This initiative aims to construct 1,000 homestays, emphasizing community-based tourism and showcasing the architectural heritage of the Bhutia, Lepchas, and Nepali communities. Each homestay, consisting of three rooms, will provide an authentic experience, highlighting the local way of life.
Through such immersive experiences, we aim to foster deeper connections between tourists and our diverse traditions, offering a rich understanding of our cultural heritage. Furthermore, we are exploring avenues to attract high-end tourists by positioning Sikkim as a Wellness Destination. Our efforts aim to leverage the serene environment, peaceful ambiance, and unique cultural heritage of our state to provide rejuvenating and enriching experiences to visitors.

My government has initiated two passenger ropeway projects in Sikkim. The first project, from Pelling Helipad to Sangacholing Monastery hilltop, is nearing completion and is expected to be finished by January 31st, 2024. This eco-friendly transportation system will connect popular tourist destinations, including the Chenrenzi statue, Skywalk, and Sangacholing Monastery.
The second project, inaugurated on February 28th, 2023, by the Hon’ble Finance Minister, Government of India, Ms. Nirmala Seetharaman, is the Bhaleydhunga Ropeway, which faced unique challenges due to the high altitude, harsh terrain, and inaccessibility. This ropeway serves as a vital transportation link in the challenging landscape

These initiatives will foster tourism growth, enhance infrastructure, and showcase the natural and cultural richness of Sikkim to visitors from across the nation and beyond.

Dear Citizens,

In a bid to provide shelter and dignity of life to our citizens, my government has successfully completed the construction of 3050 houses under the Sikkim Garib Awas Yojana. These homes are furnished with furniture, TVs, and essential amenities, ensuring comfortable living for the beneficiaries. Moreover, we have sanctioned an additional 11,000 houses and construction is presently underway.
Additionally, construction for 260 social housing flats measuring 688 sq. ft each, along with 502 individual houses measuring 678.50 sq. ft, is underway across all seven Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) under the Sikkim Urban Garib Awas Yojana. These initiatives aim to offer quality housing to those in need within urban areas.

Furthermore, as part of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, my government has successfully completed and handed over 1171 houses out of the 1409 sanctioned, ensuring homes for deserving beneficiaries.

Dear citizens,

In pursuit of comprehensive rural development, my government is earnestly executing diverse Central and State schemes. Notably, the Jal Jeevan Mission, designed to ensure access to safe drinking water via household tap connections for all rural households by 2024, has witnessed substantial advancements. Out of the 131880 households, 116999 have received tap water connection as of now. With 82% coverage, the commitment remains to achieve 100% FHTC coverage across all rural areas in the year 2024.
Similarly, through the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, previously inaccessible areas are now connected by roads, facilitating transport for the daily needs of residents. Construction of over 1871 kms out of the 1992.28 kms sanctioned under this scheme has been successfully completed, significantly improving connectivity in remote regions.

Dear Citizens,

Sikkim places high value on the progress and empowerment of its women and mothers, considering them as cornerstones of our society.
To ensure women’s representation, reservations are now secured for them in all government offices. The recent Panchayat elections showcased exceptional participation, with over 53% of seats occupied by women, owing to our policy mandating no less than a 50% reservation for women.
In 2023, the pioneering Sikkim Aama Yojana was introduced, offering a financial grant of Rs. 20,000/- to eligible non-working, unwed, widowed, divorced, or separated mothers within the age group of 18-59 years residing in the state of Sikkim. This initiative stands as a testament to our commitment to promoting gender equality and supporting the welfare of mothers across the state.

Dear citizens,

So far, I have highlighted the major achievements of the Government. Alongside these accomplishments, it is with great pride that I detail the notable projects and policies that are being undertaken.
With immense pride, I announce the “Sikkim Aama Sahyog Yojana” – a scheme aimed at improving the lives of Below Poverty Line families while fostering environmental sustainability. Under this program, BPL households in the state will receive four annual refills of LPG cylinders through a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of Rs. 1100 per refill directly to the women of the households.
The proposed scheme aims to liberate women from the laborious task of gathering firewood, enabling them to redirect their time and effort towards more productive pursuits. Moreover, the scheme is crucial for addressing the health concerns of women in households who are primarily exposed to smoke from firewood while cooking and carrying out household duties.

Additionally, my Government has initiated the construction of the Citizen’s Wellness Park at the former STNM Hospital. The old STNM Hospital, a symbol of our city’s history, is undergoing transformation into an Urban Public Health Centre while retaining its heritage value.

The renovation plans include a dedicated physiotherapy wing for the elderly and a nearby park accessible from Tibet Road. This park, envisioned as the “Lungs of Gangtok,” will act as a vital green space, offering areas for fitness activities like jogging, yoga, and an open gym.

The new Park Building, equipped with amenities such as a Senior Citizen’s Club, Indoor Playroom, Lactating Room, and a cafeteria, shall be a comprehensive wellness centre for people of all ages. It shall serve as the lungs of Gangtok, contributing to the city’s overall health and well-being.

My government has initiated the Sikkim INSPIRES program which is a comprehensive initiative designed to promote economic inclusion for women and youth. The program strategically addresses growth and governance challenges by enhancing state-level capacities for strategic planning and coordination across various sectors, including government departments and private enterprises.
Noteworthy achievements include the allocation of approximately US$216.40 million under the Program for Results (P for R), covering state schemes related to skilling, entrepreneurship, mental health, care services, and rural tourism.

A recent significant development involves the approval of a US$100 million International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) loan by the World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors on December 21, 2023. This substantial funding aims to support the state’s ambitious target of training, upskilling, and providing jobs for 300,500 women and youth in high-growth and priority sectors.
The program places a strong emphasis on removing barriers hindering women and youth in Sikkim from joining priority sectors, thereby contributing to the economic growth of both the state and the nation. To facilitate this, INSPIRES offers vital support services such as career counselling, guidance, migration assistance, and mental health management, ensuring accessible and smoother transitions into meaningful employment.

Dear citizens,

As part of the Vibrant Village Programme, 46 villages in Sikkim have been chosen. The program is strategically crafted to implement crucial interventions aimed at generating livelihood opportunities, fostering economic growth, and promoting comprehensive development in the selected villages. As a special gesture, the Sarpanchas of Vibrant Villages, along with their spouses, will have the honour of witnessing the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi as “Special Guests.” We express our sincere gratitude to the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji for spearheading this transformative initiative and including our state in this significant endeavour and also for instilling confidence in the people by declaring the last village of the country as the first village.

Dear citizens,

I am pleased to take this opportunity to highlight some of the major achievements accomplished by my Government over the span of four years. Our sincere endeavour is to ensure that the goals and vision of our government, formulated with the aspirations of our people in mind, are met, making Sikkim an exemplary state.

Dear citizens,

The youth of our nation plays a pivotal role in shaping its future, and under the visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, Viksit Bharat @2047: Voice of Youth campaign has been initiated. The campaign aims to empower and involve the youth in shaping India’s destiny, aspiring to achieve a developed nation by 2047. I urge young fellow of our state to seize this golden opportunity, to contribute to a prosperous future and actively participate in the journey toward a developed India. Viksit Bharat @2047:,It’s not just a dream; it’s a direction, and the participation of the youth is crucial in reaching new heights for India.

As we commemorate this Republic Day, let us cherish the values that bind us together as a nation—unity, diversity, and resilience. Our journey as a vibrant democracy has been shaped by the dedication and sacrifices of countless individuals who have strived to uphold the principles enshrined in our Constitution.

On this momentous occasion, I extend my warmest wishes to every Indian. May the spirit of unity and patriotism continue to inspire us as we march ahead on the path of progress.
Jai Hind! Jai Sikkim!