GANGTOK, Apr 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that his government is not only committed to the “Act East” policy but is also determined to “Act Fast” for the eight northeastern states, which he described as India’s “Ashtalakshmi”, symbolising prosperity, wealth, and auspiciousness.
Highlighting that tourism remains the backbone of Sikkim’s economy, the Prime Minister said the government is focusing on strengthening connectivity to boost tourist inflow in the state. He was addressing the closing ceremony of the golden jubilee celebrations of Sikkim’s statehood.
He announced that efforts are underway to enhance Sikkim’s infrastructure, including the construction of an expressway connecting West Bengal’s Bagdogra and a ring road in Gangtok to improve accessibility and promote tourism.
Modi also said that ropeway and skyway projects are being planned for the state, along with an expressway in Nathula aimed at further increasing tourist arrivals.
“The northeast, including Sikkim, is India’s ‘Ashtalakshmi’. The government is resolved to Act East and Act Fast,” he said.
Praising Sikkim’s natural beauty and cleanliness, the Prime Minister said, “Nature and culture come alive in Sikkim. The cleanliness of its roads and purity of its air reflect the people’s commitment to conserving nature.”
He added that the Northeast is poised to become a hub of futuristic growth and sustainable development, particularly through initiatives like organic agriculture.
“Sikkim has immense potential in eco-wellness tourism, which is being actively promoted. Around 1,000 homestays are being developed, while adventure tourism is also receiving a major infrastructure push,” he said.
Modi further stated that Sikkim represents the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” at a time when attempts are being made to divide the nation on various lines.
Calling Sikkim the “heaven of the East,” he urged tourists to visit the state to experience its natural beauty, especially its rich variety of orchids.
The Prime Minister, who also played football with young players earlier in the day, said the government is working to strengthen sports infrastructure in Sikkim, particularly in football and archery.
He also criticized previous Congress governments, alleging that they neglected development in the region, especially in healthcare.
“The Congress ignored health services in Sikkim. The present government is focused on improving healthcare infrastructure and ensuring affordable, quality services for the people,” he added. (Agencies)
