New Delhi, April 8: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) met Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi on Tuesday and held a constructive discussion on key development priorities of the Himalayan state, with a focus on strengthening financial support, infrastructure development, and sustainable economic growth.
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| Prem Singh Tamang meets Nirmala Sitharaman during a courtesy meeting, discussing development priorities and support for hill states.(Image:facebook.com/cmpsgolay) |
During the meeting, the Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to the Government of India for introducing the "Pride of Hills: Special Development Assistance for the Hill States" under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) 2026–27 programme. Under the initiative, Sikkim has been allocated an additional ₹820 crore, which is expected to significantly boost infrastructure and developmental projects across the state.
Tamang thanked the Union Government for recognising the unique geographical and developmental challenges faced by hill states. He noted that the additional financial assistance would help accelerate key projects and improve public infrastructure, while supporting the state's long-term vision of inclusive and sustainable development.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the Centre's continued support for Sikkim and appreciated its commitment to addressing the specific needs of mountainous regions. He said such targeted initiatives would contribute to balanced regional development while improving the quality of life of people living in remote and border areas.
During their interaction, Tamang and Sitharaman discussed several issues of importance to Sikkim, including enhancing financial assistance, strengthening infrastructure, promoting investment, and accelerating sustainable development initiatives. The discussions also focused on ensuring that the state continues to receive adequate support for priority sectors such as connectivity, public services, and economic development.
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The Chief Minister reiterated Sikkim's commitment to working closely with the Central Government to achieve shared development goals and ensure the effective implementation of centrally sponsored schemes and programmes.
Tamang also welcomed the Union Finance Minister and extended his best wishes for her visit to the Vibrant Villages Programme, a flagship initiative launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to improve infrastructure, livelihood opportunities, and essential services in India's border villages. He expressed confidence that the programme would play a significant role in strengthening border communities while promoting inclusive growth and national development.
The meeting reaffirmed the strong partnership between the Centre and the Government of Sikkim and underscored their shared commitment to accelerating the state's socio-economic progress through collaborative planning, enhanced financial support, and sustained developmental initiatives.
