Sikkim CM Highlights Highlighted connectivity as a critical issue, State’s Unique Needs at 16th Finance Commission Meeting

IPR, Gangtok, January 20, 2025 : Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay attended the 16th Finance Commission Meeting, chaired by Dr. Arvind Panagariya, at the conference hall of the Tashiling Secretariat. In a comprehensive address, the Chief Minister outlined Sikkim’s distinctive challenges and achievements, calling for tailored support to ensure the state’s sustainable development.

Highlighting connectivity as a critical issue, the Chief Minister pointed to the vulnerability of NH-10, Sikkim’s only road link to the rest of India, particularly during the post-monsoon period. He noted that the state has only 709 kilometers of national highways, significantly fewer than its northeastern counterparts, and underscored delays in vital infrastructure projects, including railways, airports, and digital connectivity.

As India’s first fully organic farming state, Sikkim has received global recognition, and the Chief Minister proposed leveraging this achievement by introducing QR codes to enhance the transparency and traceability of organic products. He also suggested transforming Sikkim into the country’s first Green Capital through eco-friendly policies, institutions, and investments. The Chief Minister further emphasized the need for financial compensation for the revenue forgone due to the state’s commitment to green economy initiatives.

Addressing the aftermath of the October 2023 flash floods, which caused extensive damage to infrastructure and hydropower projects, the Chief Minister called for substantial financial aid for rehabilitation and reconstruction. He also stressed the need for preparedness against non-traditional disasters, including Glacial Lake Outburst Floods and zoonotic diseases, which he described as threats to national security.

Proposing transformative initiatives to propel Sikkim’s development, the Chief Minister outlined plans for a Chewa Bhanjyang Multimodal Corridor to boost trade and connectivity under the “Act East Policy,” a new Gangtok Township to relieve pressure on existing infrastructure, and a mono rail or cable car network for efficient urban mobility. Additionally, he advocated for the creation of a state-specific planning body, the Sikkim-NITI Aayog, to align development with the national vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047.” The Chief Minister also proposed establishing a Climate Change University to serve as a research hub for the Eastern Himalayas and neighboring regions, alongside a state university focused on technical, medical, and non-technical education tailored to Sikkim’s needs.

The Chief Minister also emphasized the importance of the pharmaceutical sector, noting its role in driving economic activity. He appealed for greater flexibility in taxation policies to maximize revenue benefits for the state.

Concluding his address, the Chief Minister urged the Finance Commission to adopt a flexible, state-specific approach to support Sikkim’s aspirations. He thanked the Chairman and members for their visit and expressed hope that their time in Sikkim would be enjoyable. The meeting underscored a collective commitment to achieving sustainable development while safeguarding Sikkim’s rich natural and cultural heritage.