The Cries of the Hills

Sikkim, a small but strategically significant Himalayan state, faces acute developmental challenges that underscore the urgent need for focused attention from the Centre. Despite its contributions to organic farming, tourism, and environmental conservation, Sikkim remains crippled by its connectivity woes, threatening its economic prospects and quality of life.

The Chief Minister, Prem Singh Tamang Golay recently laid bare these challenges before the 16th Finance Commission, highlighting Sikkim’s limited national highway network, delayed infrastructure projects, and vulnerability to natural calamities. These issues demand immediate action.

At the heart of the problem lies NH-10, Sikkim’s only road link to the rest of India. This critical lifeline, particularly prone to landslides during the monsoon, frequently leaves the state isolated. The Centre's failure to ensure its year-round functionality disrupts the supply chain, hampers emergency responses, and stifles economic growth. Sikkim's geographic constraints exacerbate the issue, yet the response from the Centre has been sluggish at best.

Similarly, the state’s rail and air connectivity remain underdeveloped. The long-awaited railway project connecting Sikkim to the national network has seen interminable delays, depriving the state of cost-effective logistics and enhanced tourism opportunities. Additionally, the absence of a fully operational airport underscores the neglect faced by the region. Digital connectivity, a cornerstone of modern development, is another glaring gap that limits access to education, e-commerce, and telemedicine services in the state.

Neglecting Sikkim also raises national security concerns. Nestled near international borders with China, Nepal, and Bhutan, Sikkim occupies a strategically critical position. Improved infrastructure is not just a necessity for the state's growth but a national imperative for border security and regional stability.

The Centre must address these issues with a multi-pronged approach. First, prioritizing the completion of delayed infrastructure projects, such as railway lines and airport expansion, is essential. Second, NH-10’s upgradation and the construction of an alternative highway must be fast-tracked to ensure uninterrupted connectivity. Third, enhancing digital infrastructure should be a key focus to bridge the state’s technological divide.

For India’s aspiration to become a global powerhouse, equitable development is non-negotiable. Ignoring the needs of small, landlocked states like Sikkim contradicts the ethos of cooperative federalism. The state’s connectivity challenges are not just Sikkim’s burden; they are a national responsibility. It is high time the Centre recognized this and acted with urgency.

Sikkim’s potential as a sustainable development model for the rest of India is immense, but it cannot flourish while shackled by infrastructural neglect. The Centre must rise to the occasion and prioritize the state's integration into the national development framework.