Gangtok, May 16: Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur on the occasion of the state’s 51st Statehood Day said Sikkim has evolved into a national example of sustainable development, environmental conservation and inclusive progress, highlighting its achievements across sectors ranging from ecology and healthcare to entrepreneurship and education.
Extending greetings to the people of the Himalayan state, the Governor said Sikkim’s merger with India in 1975 reflected the democratic aspirations of its citizens and laid the groundwork for constitutional governance, economic advancement and social transformation. He noted that over the years, the state has continued to strengthen its developmental path while preserving its unique identity and values.
Describing Sikkim as India’s first fully organic state, Mathur said the state has gained recognition globally for maintaining a balance between environmental protection and economic growth. He commended initiatives focused on organic agriculture, biodiversity conservation, waste management and climate resilience, stating that programmes such as Mero Rukh Mero Santati and Shishu Samriddhi Yojana reflected a model where ecological awareness and social welfare move together.
Referring to the devastating flash floods of 2023, the Governor said the disaster highlighted the fragile nature of Himalayan ecosystems and the growing challenges posed by climate change. He pointed out that Chungthang village had been adopted for rehabilitation support and that a multipurpose gymnasium had been built to promote youth development and strengthen disaster preparedness.
Emphasising Sikkim’s strategic significance, Mathur noted that the state shares international borders with China, Nepal and Bhutan and has undertaken several initiatives in partnership with the Indian Army and other agencies to improve border infrastructure and promote tourism under programmes including Vibrant Villages Programme and Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan. He said border villages are increasingly being viewed as the country’s “first villages” rather than its last.
The Governor also highlighted progress in entrepreneurship and local enterprise development, saying policy measures and government support have encouraged MSME growth and helped create opportunities for young people and women entrepreneurs while strengthening self-reliance.
Speaking on healthcare, Mathur said Sikkim has recorded substantial improvements since 2019 through expansion of specialised medical services and stronger district-level health infrastructure. He referred to progress in oncology, cardiology, neurosurgery, maternal healthcare and mental health services. He also noted that the state is gradually emerging as a wellness destination through the integration of AYUSH practices, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy and Sowa Rigpa, with modern medical systems.
On education, he said the state continues to focus on foundational learning, vocational training, STEM education and higher education reforms aimed at building future-ready institutions and improving academic outcomes.
Mathur further highlighted advancements in tourism, rural development, sanitation and women’s welfare, stating that schemes such as the Mega Homestay Scheme, rural livelihood initiatives, the Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission have contributed to employment generation and sustainable growth across the state.
Referring to women-focused welfare initiatives, the Governor said programmes including Aama Sashaktikaran Yojana and Aama Sahayog Yojana have strengthened financial security and improved household well-being. He added that LPG refill support measures had helped reduce dependence on traditional fuels and improved health conditions for women in rural areas.
Concluding his address, Mathur urged citizens to continue working collectively towards building a greener, healthier and more prosperous Sikkim while preserving values of peace, unity, compassion and resilience.
