PM Modi Vows Unity, Lauds Sikkim on 50 Years of Statehood (PTI )
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described last month’s Pahalgam terror attack as not just a strike on innocent lives, but an assault on the very soul and unity of India. Addressing the nation virtually from Bagdogra, West Bengal, on Thursday, the Prime Minister said the government's response Operation Sindoor was swift, decisive, and sent a strong message to those who seek to destabilize India through fear and division. The attack, which took place on April 22, left 26 people deadmostly tourists. It was reported that the terrorists targeted their victims based on their religion, a chilling detail that sparked nationwide grief and fury.
In his address, Modi emphasized that India did not let the tragedy go unanswered. Operation Sindoor, launched soon after the attack, was aimed at dismantling terrorist camps and airbases across the border. The Prime Minister said this action was not just military it was symbolic of India’s unified stand against terror.
"What happened in Pahalgam was an attempt to tear the country apart along religious lines. But we showed the world that India stands united. Those who tried to wipe the sindoor from the foreheads of our sisters were answered with strength," he declared.
#WATCH | Gangtok, Sikkim | PM Narendra Modi says, "All you people of Sikkim understand the power of tourism well. Tourism is not just about entertainment, but also a celebration of diversity. But what terrorists did in Pahalgam wasn't just an attack on India, but on humanity and… pic.twitter.com/969JQmyXCk
— ANI (@ANI) May 29, 2025
Modi's words come at a time when the country continues to grapple with the psychological and emotional impact of the Pahalgam attack. His speech served as a rallying cry not just for security forces, but for every citizen who believes in the idea of a secular, resilient India.He reiterated that India's fight is not against any community, but against those who use terror as a weapon to divide and destroy.
The Prime Minister was originally scheduled to attend the 50th anniversary celebration of Sikkim’s statehood at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok. Due to adverse weather, he addressed the event virtually, but his message was deeply personal and heartfelt.
He called Sikkim a shining example of how democracy can thrive in the hills, and praised its citizens for choosing integration with India half a century ago. "Sikkim did not just join India—it embraced democracy and development," he said.
During the virtual event, Modi unveiled a series of developmental projects meant to boost health, tourism, connectivity, and heritage in the Himalayan state. These included a 500-bed hospital in Namchi, a new ropeway linking Pelling to Sangacholing Monastery, and a grand statue of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
He also laid the foundation for new infrastructure including a district hospital in Pakyong, a visitor experience center at Nathula, and the conversion of Singshore Bridge into a glass skywalk intended to attract more tourists to the region.
The Prime Minister also lauded Sikkim’s strides in organic agriculture, noting that the small state has become a leader in natural and sustainable farming. "Sikkim has turned its natural beauty into an economic asset. Its organic exports are not just goods they're messages to the world that India can lead by example," he stated.
Highlighting Sikkim’s growing appeal as a tourist destination, Modi said that the state welcomes nearly one million visitors annually an impressive figure given its size and remote location.
He also emphasized the role of sports in shaping the future, paying tribute to sporting icons from the state like Bhaichung Bhutia and Tarundeep Rai. "Sikkim is not just about scenic beauty it’s about strength, skill, and spirit. It has what it takes to become a hub for adventure sports in the Northeast," Modi added.
Modi closed his address by stressing the importance of connectivity for economic progress. He mentioned the Sevoke-Rangpo rail project as a game-changer that will link Sikkim directly to the national railway network—helping businesses, tourists, and students access opportunities more easily.
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