Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Gangtok: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang addressed the NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting, calling on the Union government to increase support for connectivity in the Himalayan and North-Eastern regions. Speaking during a session focused on human capital, Tamang emphasized that infrastructure remains the primary barrier to Sikkim's economic expansion and national security efforts.
The state has achieved significant milestones, recently earning a status as fully literate and ranking among the nation's top ten performers on the Human Development Index. Tamang noted that Sikkim continues to exceed national averages in child welfare and health, while also maintaining over 47 percent forest cover to support sustainable development.
To build on these successes, the Chief Minister proposed a specialized human capital framework for mountain states and requested the extension of the North East Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy beyond 2027. He emphasized that these policies are essential for regional job creation and attracting necessary investments.
The government is currently advancing several youth and education initiatives, including the Bahini Scheme and the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence in Gangtok. Tamang highlighted that these projects are vital to the country's long-term vision, stating, "Improved road, rail, air and digital connectivity was crucial for economic development and national security, given Sikkim's strategic location along India's border."
Looking toward the national goal of Viksit Bharat at 2047, Tamang urged for the rapid implementation of BharatNet 3.0 and increased flexibility in centrally sponsored schemes. He reaffirmed Sikkim's commitment to collaborating with the Centre and NITI Aayog to foster human capital growth across the nation.
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