Indian Union has kept its promise made to Sikkim: Governor

GANGTOK, : Governor Om Prakash Mathur has extended his warm greetings to the people of Sikkim on the momentous occasion of Sikkim’s 50^th Statehood Day. This golden jubilee is more than just a celebration—it marks a meaningful milestone in the shared journey of our people, our institutions, and our hopes for the future, he said.

In his message, the Governor expressed that the Indian Union welcomed Sikkim with open arms and a promise of unwavering support when the people of Sikkim chose to become a part of the Indian Union as its 22^nd State on May 16, 1975.

“That promise has been kept. Over the last five decades, Sikkim’s transformation has been extraordinary, rising from geographical isolation and limited infrastructure to becoming a shining example of development, sustainability, and inclusive progress,” said Mathur.

The Governor highlighted that Sikkim has made significant strides across every sector thanks to the sustained support from the Government of India and the dedication of theState leadership and citizens. He spoke on the remarkable progress of the public healthcare sector.

“Back in 1975, the health sector in Sikkim was in its infancy, with few hospitals and health centres, mostly in Gangtok. Infant mortality was alarmingly high—over 130 per 1,000 live births. Maternal mortality ranged between 600 and 800 per 100,000 (One Lakh) live births. Our birth and death rates were 40 and 20 per 1,000 population, respectively.”

“Today, in 2025, Sikkim’s healthcare landscape tells a different story. We now have the STNM Multi-Speciality Hospital in Gangtok offering services like neurosurgery, surgical oncology, gastroenterology and plastic and reconstructive surgery. Our healthcare network includes four district hospitals, two Community Health Centres, twenty-four Primary Health Centres, two Urban PHCS, seven Urban Health and Wellness Centres, and 149 Primary Health Sub-Centres. Dialysis facilities are now available in all districts,” said the Governor.

He recorded that as per NFHS-5, 96.5% of births are registered, 94.7% are institutional, and 96.5% are attended by skilled personnel. Infant and neonatal mortality rates have dropped dramatically, to just 5 per 1,000 live births…over 80.6% of our children are fully immunized, and all vaccinations are administered through public health institutions, he said.

The Governor noted that Sikkim’s connectivity, once a major challenge, has improved beyond measure. From a modest 1,200-kilometre road network in 1975, we now have motorable roads connecting all villages, he shared.

He added that the Pakyong Airport continues to evolve, with ongoing efforts to enhance flight consistency and infrastructure, marking a meaningful step forward. The Sevoke–Rangpo Railway Line, with Phase I expected to be completed by December 2026, will further strengthen regional integration.

“Sikkim’s story is not just about numbers—it is about lives transformed. It is about a State that has walked together with the Indian Union, shoulder to shoulder, committed to progress, peace, and purpose.”

As we look ahead to the next fifty years, we embrace the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, inspired by our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Governor said. For Sikkim, this is not just a vision—it is a personal commitment, he asserted.

“We stand ready—as a strategic border State, a guardian of biodiversity, and a pioneer in sustainability—to contribute with all our strength, creativity, and unity. Let our youth rise, let our economy flourish, let our heritage shine.As we celebrate this Golden Jubilee, let us carry forward the spirit of unity and resilience that defines us.”

“To all the farmers, educators, soldiers, mothers, youth, entrepreneurs, and public servants—this progress belongs to you. And to the Government of India, we express our deepest gratitude for standing with Sikkim, always,” said the Governor.