Bagdogra (West Bengal) [India], May 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the “Sikkim@50: Where Progress Meets Purpose and Nature Nurtures Growth” programme via videoconference from Bagdogra, West Bengal, condemned the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam and highlighted Sikkim’s transformative journey over the last 50 years.
Calling tourism a celebration of diversity, the Prime Minister said, “What the terrorists did in Pahalgam wasn’t just an attack on India, but on humanity and brotherhood.” The attack claimed 26 lives, prompting a strong military response from India under Operation Sindoor.
“The terrorists tried to snatch away the happiness of Indian families and divide the nation. But India stood united and gave them a fitting reply. After destroying their terror hubs, Pakistan retaliated by targeting civilians and our army. This only exposed them further. We destroyed many of their airbases and proved how swiftly and precisely India can act,” PM Modi said.
Celebrating Sikkim’s 50 years as part of India, PM Modi praised the state’s achievements, saying, “Sikkim chose a democratic path five decades ago, believing in equal rights and equal opportunities. Today, it stands as a model of harmony between nature and development.”
He emphasized the vision of Viksit Bharat, which will rest on four key pillars: the poor, farmers, women, and the youth. Applauding the progressive approach of Sikkim’s farmers, he said, “Sikkim is at the forefront of India’s new agricultural movement. The Centre is building the country’s first Organic Fishery Cluster in the state, which will create fresh opportunities for local youth.”
Touching upon tourism, the Prime Minister underlined the immense potential of Sikkim as a global destination for wellness, adventure, and cultural events. “Our dream is to see Gangtok host the world’s greatest artists. We held G20 meetings here to showcase Sikkim’s capabilities. Now, we aim to make Sikkim a hub for conferences, concerts, and wellness tourism,” he said.
PM Modi also urged every Indian state to develop globally recognized tourist destinations, stating that tourism can be a powerful engine for economic growth and national unity.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), PM Modi will be visiting West Bengal, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh on May 29 and 30, during which he will inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for development projects worth over ₹70,000 crore.