Gangtok: The North East has witnessed unprecedented development over the past 12 years and has moved from the margins to the mainstream of India’s growth agenda, Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment and MSME Shobha Karandlaje said on Tuesday.
Addressing a media and intellectuals convention in Gangtok to mark 12 years of the Narendra Modi-led NDA government, Karandlaje said sustained investments in infrastructure, connectivity, welfare and social security have transformed the region and created new opportunities for its people.
“The North East today occupies a central place in India’s development vision. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ensured that every ministry contributes to the growth of the region through focused programmes and investments,” she said.
Highlighting Sikkim’s progress, the minister said the State has witnessed major improvements in roads, healthcare, digital connectivity and tourism. Under the Vibrant Villages Programme, 46 border villages in Sikkim are being developed with better road links, telecommunications and livelihood opportunities.
She said more than 1.22 lakh rural households in the State have received tap water connections under the Jal Jeevan Mission, significantly improving the quality of life in remote areas.
Recalling the 2023 Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) disaster, Karandlaje said the Centre responded promptly to support affected communities and assist in rebuilding efforts.
On welfare initiatives, the minister said government schemes have directly benefited thousands of people across the State. More than 99,000 beneficiaries, including senior citizens and frontline health workers, are covered under Ayushman Bharat, while nearly 36,000 farmers receive financial assistance through PM-Kisan. She added that over 1.70 lakh beneficiaries have availed Mudra loans worth more than Rs 1,688 crore, helping promote entrepreneurship and self-employment.
Karandlaje said Direct Benefit Transfer has transformed welfare delivery by ensuring benefits reach citizens directly without leakages or middlemen.
The minister also highlighted infrastructure achievements, noting that more than 430 km of National Highways have been developed in Sikkim over the past 12 years, while projects worth over Rs 10,000 crore are currently under implementation. More than 3,250 km of rural roads have also been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana.
She described the Rs 11,973 crore Sevok-Rangpo Railway Project as a landmark initiative that will provide Sikkim with its first railway connection and boost tourism, trade and connectivity.
Karandlaje said projects worth over Rs 760 crore have been sanctioned for Sikkim under PM-DevINE, including the Pelling-Sangachoeling Ropeway, Bhaleydunga Skywalk, Singshore Bridge Glass Skywalk and the State Medical College at Sichey.
Describing Sikkim as India’s organic State, she said growing global demand for organic produce and medicinal plants presents significant opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs.
The minister also highlighted skill development and employment initiatives, stating that over 21,000 youth have been enrolled in skill programmes, while thousands of entrepreneurs have received support through various government schemes.
Expressing confidence in Sikkim’s future, Karandlaje said the Centre remains committed to supporting the State’s growth and creating opportunities for its youth as India moves towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
(IANS)
