Message of Governor on the occasion of State Day.

My dear people of Sikkim,

On this day “48 years” ago the people of Sikkim embraced democracy to achieve the lofty ideals of freedom, liberty, socio-political and economic development. If we look back at the last 48 years we have made tremendous strides in all fields and I am delighted to applaud the people of Sikkim and highlight the significant achievements our state has achieved.

Our state’s education system has seen significant growth in student enrollment, graduation rates, and college readiness. Our teachers and school administrators have been instrumental in this success, providing innovative and effective instruction that meets the unique needs of our diverse student population with Sikkim having a “90% literacy” rate.

Organic farming has been an integral part of Sikkim’s culture and tradition for generations. Our farmers have always practiced a holistic approach to agriculture, using natural fertilizers and pest control methods that do not harm the environment with the importance of preserving our natural resources for future generations, there has been the implementation of several policies and initiatives to support organic farming in Sikkim and our government has been working closely with farmers and agriculture experts to make Sikkim a “100% organic state”, and we have made significant progress towards achieving this goal and I am confident that Sikkim’s commitment to organic farming will serve as an example for other states and nations to follow.

Our state has made significant progress in the healthcare sector. We have come a long way up with Multi-Speciality hospitals, District Hospitals, Community Health Centres and Sub Centres, we have improved access to healthcare services, and invested in cutting- edge technology to provide the best possible care to our citizens.

Our state is also gaining recognition for our vibrant industrial sector, we have seen a significant increase in industrial activity, and with new businesses and industries setting up operations in Sikkim, we have now become a hub for the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry.

Sikkim is a hotspot for biodiversity. Sikkim’s unique geography, topography, and climate have created a rich and diverse ecosystem that supports a wide range of plant and animal species, it is home to numerous rare and endangered species, including the red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and many more. Sikkim’s forests are among the most extensive and well-preserved in the Himalayan region, providing a crucial habitat for numerous species and we are committed to preserving our state’s rich biodiversity for future generations with the implementation of various policies and programs that aim to conserve and protect our natural resources, such as the establishment of protected areas, the promotion of sustainable tourism, and the adoption of eco-friendly practices.

Sikkim has made significant progress in achieving economic and ecological development at par. We have witnessed the emergence of new industries like eco-tourism, organic farming, and renewable energy. We are also promoting the adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly practices in various sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation and I urge all stakeholders to achieve economic and ecological development at par to build a brighter and more sustainable future for our state and its citizens.

India is a diverse country with cultural, linguistic, religious and diversity of various kinds and the people of Sikkim have embraced this diversity. Sikkim is a melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions, and it is this diversity that makes our state unique and special. Our state is home to people from different ethnicities, including Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, and Limbu, among others. Each community has its distinct culture, language, and traditions, which have been passed down from generation to generation. We live together in harmony, respect each other’s beliefs and values, and celebrate our diversity. This unity in diversity is what makes our state a model for the rest of the country. The people of Sikkim have become partners in national development.

The people of Sikkim recognize the importance of equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, or background. As we celebrate our state’s unity in diversity, let us also remember that this diversity is not just a source of pride, but also a responsibility. We must continue to work towards a harmonious and inclusive society, where every citizen feels valued and respected.

As we move forward, we must continue to work towards inclusive growth and development. We must ensure that every citizen has access to equal opportunities and benefits from the progress we make. We must also focus on preserving our state’s rich cultural heritage and promoting tourism.

On this day, let us celebrate our state’s achievements and reaffirm our commitment to progress and unity. Let us work together to build a brighter future for ourselves and the generations to come.

Happy 48th State Day my dear people of Sikkim.
Jai Sikkim! Jai Bharat!