PM Modi lauds Sikkim’s extraordinary biodiversity during visit to Gangtok Orchidarium
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday praised Sikkim’s extraordinary biodiversity and highlighted its role as a model of sustainable development during his visit to the Himalayan state, where he also launched and inaugurated over 30 projects worth thousands of crores.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “Visited the Orchidarium in Gangtok and was mesmerised by its beauty. Sikkim’s rich biodiversity is truly extraordinary. Such efforts reflect our deep harmony with nature. They also inspire us towards conservation and sustainable living.”
The Orchidarium, part of the Swarnajayanti Maitri Manjari Park, has been developed as a world-class Orchid Experience Centre showcasing the state’s unique floral heritage.
Addressing the closing ceremony of Sikkim’s 50th year of statehood celebrations at Paljor Stadium, the Prime Minister underlined the state’s journey as a blend of heritage preservation and modern development. He said the celebrations, set against the scenic backdrop of mountains, reflected the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
Recalling a grand roadshow in Gangtok, PM Modi said the participation of 21 ethnic communities showcased India’s cultural diversity and unity. He also commended the cleanliness and environmental consciousness of the people, calling them “steadfast protectors of nature.”
Highlighting Sikkim’s strengths, the Prime Minister noted that despite covering less than one percent of India’s geographical area, the state is home to over 25 percent of the country’s floral diversity, hundreds of bird and butterfly species, and vast forest cover.
On the development front, PM Modi announced projects spanning infrastructure, health, tourism, education, and connectivity. He emphasized that improved infrastructure is key to boosting tourism, which he described as Sikkim’s greatest economic strength.
Major connectivity initiatives include the Bagdogra-Gangtok expressway and the Sevok-Rangpo rail line, which will connect Sikkim to the national railway network for the first time. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand road networks, including extending connectivity to remote villages and building ring roads in urban areas.
The Prime Minister stressed innovation in tourism, citing upcoming ropeways, skywalks, and enhanced border tourism experiences as steps to attract more visitors and generate employment. He also announced plans to develop 1,000 homestays to ensure that tourism benefits local communities directly.
In the healthcare sector, PM Modi said Sikkim has seen significant progress, with Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, district hospitals, and wellness centres expanding access to affordable treatment. He added that new facilities, including the Drejong Namgyal Sowa Rigpa Hospital, will further strengthen the state’s healthcare system.
The Prime Minister also praised Sikkim’s leadership in organic farming, noting that it became India’s first fully organic state in 2016. He said the state’s success in producing organic crops such as cardamom, ginger, and turmeric has created new income opportunities for farmers and positioned Sikkim as a model for sustainable agriculture.
Emphasising environmental responsibility, PM Modi lauded local initiatives such as tree plantation drives and community-led conservation efforts, calling them examples for the world.
He concluded by reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to accelerating Sikkim’s growth, stating that the Northeast region represents India’s “Asht Lakshmi” and plays a vital role in achieving the vision of a developed nation.
