77th Republic Day speech underscores constitutional values, ecological responsibility and inclusive development
Gangtok: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on January 26 used his 77th Republic Day address to outline the state’s development priorities, placing strong emphasis on healthcare expansion, climate-linked disaster preparedness, social protection and environmental conservation, while reaffirming unwavering commitment to the Constitution.
Recalling the sacrifices behind India’s freedom, Tamang described the Constitution as the foundation of “justice, liberty, equality and fraternity”. He said Sikkim’s journey since joining the Indian Union in 1975 has been guided by balanced growth, peace and ecological responsibility.
Healthcare formed the core of the address. The Chief Minister highlighted Sikkim’s transition from basic services to a multi-tier healthcare system spanning primary care to super-speciality treatment. He noted that advanced procedures such as cancer surgeries and cardiac interventions are now being performed within the state, reducing dependence on outside referrals.
Key milestones include the establishment of Sikkim’s first tertiary cancer care centre and the expansion of dialysis services across districts. Addressing rising cancer incidence, Tamang announced free HPV vaccination for all 14-year-old girls and self-testing kits for women aged 30–65, calling cervical cancer “preventable and treatable”.
Education was cited as another major pillar, with a literacy rate above 90 per cent, low teacher–pupil ratios, statewide introduction of kindergarten in government schools, improved board results through mentoring, and new locally contextualised textbooks supported by digital governance reforms.
On infrastructure, Tamang stressed quality, safety and climate resilience over mere expansion, especially for roads in the mountainous border state. Climate risks, particularly glacial lake outburst floods, featured prominently. Referring to the October 2023 South Lhonak flood, he said over 40 glacial lakes are at high risk and called for science-based, whole-of-government planning.
Agriculture, social security, women’s safety, sanitation and Sikkim’s organic legacy were also highlighted. Concluding, Tamang said Republic Day is a moment to reaffirm faith in the Constitution and expressed confidence in Sikkim’s role as a model Himalayan state contributing to national integration and security.
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