Sikkim CM Urges Prioritization of NH10 Restoration and Modernization at NITI Aayog’s 9th Governing Council Meeting

IPR, New Delhi, July 27, 2024 : Chief Minister Mr. Prem Singh Tamang participated in the 9th Governing Council Meeting of NITI Aayog, chaired by Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, New Delhi, today. 

The meeting saw attendance from notable dignitaries, including NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Dr. Suman Berry, Central Ministers, Chief Ministers, and Lieutenant Governors, addressing critical national and state-specific issues. 

In his address, the Chief Minister raised serious concerns about the devastating natural disaster triggered by the outburst of South Lhonak Lake on October 4, 2023. The resultant flooding caused the destruction of Chungthang Dam, Sikkim's largest dam, rendering the Teesta III Hydro Power Project defunct. 

This project, crucial for Sikkim’s revenue with a 1,200 MW generating capacity, suffered nearly Rs. 14,000 crore in asset loss and an annual revenue loss of Rs. 300-400 crore. The Chief Minister sought an annual grant in lieu of the 12% free power from the project for ten years or until its reconstruction is complete.

Mr. Tamang expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister for the swift release of financial aid from the NDR Fund for immediate relief and restoration. He emphasized that the Post Disaster Needs Assessment indicated that Rs. 3,673 crore is necessary for comprehensive recovery and reconstruction. Additionally, he requested a special grant to expedite the restoration of critical infrastructure and support livelihood initiatives.

Highlighting the importance of NH10, Sikkim's sole lifeline to the rest of the country, the Chief Minister underscored the severe economic impact of frequent disruptions along this route due to climate change and irregular rainfall patterns. He urged the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to prioritize the restoration and modernization of NH10, focusing on its load-bearing capacity and overall sustainability.

Mr. Tamang also called for the establishment of a Multi-modal Corridor with a modern integrated check post between Sikkim and Eastern Nepal through Chewa Bhanjyang. This initiative aims to enhance cultural and economic ties while supporting national security interests. The Chief Minister stressed the strategic importance of this region and the need to expedite the project for mutual benefit.

In line with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, the Chief Minister outlined Sikkim’s developmental goals, focusing on four major pillars: economic growth, environmental sustainability, human resource development, and good governance. Sikkim aims to accelerate growth through entrepreneurship, innovation, and competitiveness, significantly contributing to India's projected economic expansion.

Mr. Tamang praised the Prime Minister's "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" initiative, aligning it with Sikkim's commitment to environmental augmentation. He identified five critical areas for accelerating economic growth in alignment with the Viksit Bharat agenda:

Improving youth employability Developing Sikkim as a healthcare and wellness hub

Implementing innovative practices in agriculture and food processing

Promoting tourism and MSME sectors

Enhancing civic amenities and infrastructure

Concluding his address, the Chief Minister expressed deep gratitude to the Prime Minister for the opportunity to present Sikkim's perspectives and for the ongoing support from NITI Aayog.