Golden Jubilee Conclave explores Sikkim’s democratic journey & investment potential

ISABELLA GURUNG

Sikkim plays a vital role in national security & regional cooperation: Governor

GANGTOK, : To commemorate 50 years of Sikkim’s Statehood, the Press Club of Sikkim (PCS), in collaboration with the Information and Public Relations (IPR) department conducted the ‘Sikkim@50: Golden Jubilee Conclave’, at Adampool, near Ranipool here on Tuesday.

The inaugural session was attended by Governor Om Prakash Mathur as the chief guest, and attended by minister Sonam Lama, Chief Minister’s advisor KN Lepcha, dignitaries, educationists, civil servants, journalists from the national media organisations, and others.

In his inaugural address, the Governor congratulated the PCS and IPR department for organising the conclave ‘in the most important year for the State’.

“This conclave is a moment of pride and introspection. It marks 50 years of Sikkim’s democratic journey, when we established our identity as a member of the Republic of India. It is a time to recollect our collective achievements, understand the changing challenges and reaffirm our commitment to progress. At the same time, the main objective of this conclave is to bring national recognition to Sikkim and its Golden Jubilee celebrations. The format of today’s conclave, focusing on both the past and the future, is extremely timely and thoughtful. This conclave is an opportunity not only to cherish the achievements of Sikkim but also to develop a collective thinking to shape its bright future,” expressed the Governor.

The Governor shared that Sikkim occupies a unique and important position in the strategic landscape of the nation, and plays a vital role in national security and regional cooperation. The strategic role of the State has become even more important in the current scenario as was underlined in the recent Budget speech presented by the Chief Minister, he added.

The Governor also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role in the integration and development of the North Eastern and border areas since 2014. He also highlighted the different policies, expansion of air and rail connectivity, and increased budget for road development, Pakyong Airport; significantly contributing to the development of the region.

He expressed joy to witness eminent journalists, scholars and policy makers from Sikkim and various parts of the country participating as panellists in this conference.

The conclave had two sessions, where the theme explored through panel discussions focusing on Sikkim’s strategic significance, its economic opportunities, and the broader context of its 50-year journey with the Indian Union. Together, these sessions were designed to not only celebrate Sikkim’s achievements but also to contribute to national policy thinking for the State’s growth and development over the next 50 years.

Chief Minister PS Golay is the chief patron of the conclave’s organising committee.

The first session with the theme ‘How far has Sikkim been integrated with the national mainstream in these 50 years while preserving its distinct identity?’ had veteran journalist Kunal Sengupta, senior journalist Karma Paljor, and chief economic advisor (Government of Sikkim) Prof Mahendra P Lama as panellists.

The session was moderated by senior journalist & Consulting Editor, Summit Times, Pema Wangchuk.

The session explored Sikkim’s current status within the national mainstream, how it is projected by the Government of India on the international stage in the context of geopolitics, and discuss key constitutional provisions like Article 371F and the State’s special status to understand how Sikkim's unique identity is perceived both nationally and globally.

The second session themed ‘Invest in Sikkim: Tourism and the Mountain Economy’ had journalist Jamal Shaikh, Balwa group vice president Ajay Balakrishnan, additional chief secretary (Tourism and Civil Aviation department), CS Rao and Commerce and Industries secretary Karma D Youtso as panellists.

The session was moderated bysenior journalist Karma Paljor.

Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba, addressing the valedictory session, welcomed the conclave initiative and congratulated the organisers. He thanked the invited panellists for sharing their insights on Sikkim during the two sessions and urged that such discussions should be initiated at colleges and universities also.

PCS president Bhim Rawat, in his welcome address, thanked the Chief Minister, the State government for the support and the panellists from Sikkim and outside Sikkim for being part of the special day.