Gangtok, Sikkim: Sikkim is set to host one of its biggest political events in decades as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to attend the state’s 50th Statehood Day celebrations on May 29. Over 1 lakh people are expected to gather at Gangtok’s Paljor Stadium, prompting authorities to shift the venue from the originally planned Manan Kendra to accommodate the massive crowd. While the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has yet to issue a final confirmation, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has stated that preparations are in full swing for what he calls a “historic moment for Sikkim and India.”
Why This Visit Matters
Sikkim, a former Himalayan kingdom, officially became India’s 22nd state on May 16, 1975, following a referendum that saw 97.5% of voters choose integration with India. The 50th anniversary marks not just a political milestone but also a celebration of Sikkim’s unique cultural identity within India.
PM Modi’s visit is expected to include major announcements on infrastructure, tourism, and digital connectivity, aligning with the BJP’s broader push for Northeast development. Sources indicate that at least five new projects—ranging from road expansions to eco-tourism hubs—could be unveiled during the event.
The Last-Minute Venue Shift
Originally, the celebrations were planned at Manan Kendra, a convention center in Gangtok. However, with an estimated 1 lakh attendees, nearly one-sixth of Sikkim’s total population, the state government quickly switched to the larger Paljor Stadium, which can hold over 20,000 seated guests and tens of thousands more in standing areas.
A senior state official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “Security, logistics, and crowd management were the top concerns. Paljor Stadium allows better traffic control and emergency exits.”
Security on High Alert
Given the PM’s visit, security has been tightened across Gangtok.
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SPG (Special Protection Group) and ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police) are leading the security detail.
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Drone surveillance will monitor the event, with over 500 CCTV cameras installed around the stadium.
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Traffic restrictions will be in place from 6 AM to 6 PM on May 29.
What’s on the Agenda?
The event will feature:
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PM Modi’s Key Speech (Expected focus: Sikkim’s development, national unity).
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Cultural Performances – Traditional dances by Lepcha, Bhutia, and Nepali communities.
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Project Inaugurations – Likely including the Gangtok-Nathu La Highway expansion and a new digital hub for startups.
Local Excitement and Concerns
While many residents are thrilled, some have raised concerns:
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“This is a proud moment, but I hope it brings real jobs, not just speeches,” said Tenzin Bhutia, a shopkeeper in Gangtok.
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Environmental groups warn that last-minute construction for the event could harm Sikkim’s fragile ecosystem.
How to Watch Live
The event will be livestreamed on:
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PMO India’s YouTube channel
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Sikkim Tourism’s official website
Final Confirmation Awaited
As of now, the PMO has not issued an official statement, but state officials remain confident. “Modi ji has always supported the Northeast. He will come,” said CM Tamang.
