Gangtok: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday participated in Sikkim’s 50th Statehood Day celebrations via video conference from Bagdogra.
Modi, who was scheduled to arrive in Gangtok on Thursday morning, canceled his visit to the state due to inclement weather conditions.
Initially, the Prime Minister was scheduled to arrive at Libing Helipad around 9:45 am and then proceed to Paljor Stadium for a grand celebration. However, persistent early morning rain disrupted flight operations, causing a change in his schedule.
While addressing the event, PM Modi expressed regret over the inability to attend the event.
Modi said, “I also wanted to be a part of this celebration with you. I left Delhi early in the morning and reached Bagdogra, but the weather prevented me from going further… But such a magnificent scene is in front of me, where people are everywhere… I apologise to all of you. But as the Chief Minister has invited me, I assure you that whenever the state government decides, I will come to Sikkim and attend the celebrations of Sikkim completing 50 years of statehood….”
Known for its serenity and enterprising people, the state has made remarkable strides across various sectors, the prime minister said.
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said, “Despite wanting to, you could not come here personally on this historic occasion. Still, the people of Sikkim want to give you a hearty welcome. The 50th anniversary celebrations of Sikkim’s statehood will continue for one year. I request that if you can attend these celebrations at least once, we will be very grateful.”
PM Modi will virtually lay the foundation stone and inaugurate several development projects aimed to boost infrastructure, connectivity, and growth in Sikkim.
Some of the projects include a new 500-bed district hospital in Namchi, a passenger ropeway at Sangachoeling in Pelling, Gyalshing district, and the inauguration of a statue of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Atal Amrit Udyan in Gangtok district.
