Gangtok, SIKKIM: Sikkim celebrated its 50th Statehood Day with a historic tricolour rally that saw thousands march through Gangtok in a powerful display of unity, democracy, and national pride. The event, organised by the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM), paid tribute to India’s victory in Operation Sindoor, a recent counter-terrorism success, while marking five decades since the former Himalayan kingdom became India’s 22nd state on May 16, 1975.
A Golden Jubilee Steeped in History
Sikkim’s journey to statehood began in 1975, when a referendum ended 333 years of monarchy under the Namgyal dynasty. Over 97% of voters chose to join India, paving the way for democratic governance. In a social media post, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Sikkim’s “serene beauty, rich cultural traditions, and industrious people,” noting its strides in organic farming, eco-tourism, and social harmony.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang echoed the sentiment, calling the day a “historic turning point” and reaffirming Sikkim’s commitment to Sunaulo, Samriddha, ani Samarth Sikkim (Golden, Prosperous, and Capable Sikkim), a vision aligned with Modi’s Viksit Bharat initiative.
The Tricolor Rally: A Symbol of Solidarity
The rally, stretching from MG Marg to Paljor Stadium, was more than a celebration; it was a statement. SKM leader Kunga Nima Lepcha declared it a “tribute to India’s victory over terrorism,” referencing Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure linked to cross-border threats. Participants waved flags, chanted patriotic slogans, and honoured the armed forces, underscoring Sikkim’s role as a strategic border state.
“This is our way of saying thank you to PM Modi and our soldiers,” said Lepcha, highlighting the state’s unwavering loyalty to India. The event also showcased Sikkim’s cultural diversity, with Bhutia, Lepcha, and Nepali communities marching alongside, a testament to the unity forged over 50 years.
Operation Sindoor: The Backdrop of the Celebrations
While Sikkim celebrated its democratic legacy, the rally’s focus on Operation Sindoor spotlighted India’s evolving counter-terrorism strategies. Recent reports reveal a shift toward digital radicalisation and crypto-funded terror networks, with groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba exploiting online platforms for recruitment. The operation, which neutralised key terror cells, reflects India’s resilience against such threats, a theme echoed in PM Modi’s security policies.
Sikkim’s proximity to volatile borders adds to its strategic significance. CM Tamang emphasised the state’s commitment to national security, citing its “unshakable bond” with the Indian Union.
From Monarchy to Model State: Sikkim’s Legacy
Since 1975, Sikkim has transformed from a remote kingdom to a developmental standout:
- First Organic State: Achieved 100% organic farming in 2016, boosting sustainable agriculture.
- Tourism Hub: Home to UNESCO-listed Khangchendzonga National Park, drawing over 2.5 million visitors annually.
- Economic Growth: Per capita income rose from ₹76,000 (1975) to ₹5.3 lakh (2025), outpacing national averages.
Yet, challenges remain. The 2023 glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) and persistent infrastructure gaps test the state’s resilience.
National Leaders Reflect on Sikkim’s Journey
President Droupadi Murmu praised Sikkim’s “harmonious coexistence with nature,” while Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge called it a “Himalayan jewel”. The bipartisan praise underscores Sikkim’s unique place in India’s federal tapestry, a sentiment cemented by Article 371F, which safeguards its land rights and cultural identity.
The Road Ahead
As Sikkim enters its next 50 years, CM Tamang outlined priorities: youth empowerment, climate resilience, and tech-driven governance. The state’s time-capsule ceremony, a collection of messages for 2075, captured hopes for a future rooted in sustainability and unity.
Sikkim’s story is a blueprint for India: a small state with outsized contributions to democracy, security, and ecological innovation. As PM Modi noted, “Sikkim’s progress inspires the nation”.
