Since the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) took power in 2019, the government under Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) has made substantial strides in various sectors, effectively transforming Sikkim’s political, social, and economic landscape. With a historic mandate in the 2024 assembly elections, where the SKM won 32 out of 32 seats, the party’s continued governance reflects the people's trust and faith in its leadership. This article provides an overview of the key milestones, schemes, and projects brought forth by the SKM government and highlight the differences with the previous SDF administration.
The SKM government’s commitment to improving connectivity within the state has led to a series of crucial infrastructure projects that have dramatically improved accessibility, especially for remote areas. The National Highway 10 is the key attention from the beginning of this government where various proposal for its improvement is always an agenda of this govt, one of the flagship initiatives was the construction of six heliports across the state, designed to improve air connectivity, particularly in difficult-to-reach areas. The government also undertook significant road development projects, such as the Gangtok By-pass, which has eased traffic congestion in the state capital.
The Sikkim Rail Project ( Sivok-Rangpo Railway Line) is another ambitious venture by the SKM government, aiming to connect Sikkim to the Indian railway network, thereby boosting trade and tourism opportunities. The administration has also improved rural connectivity, ensuring that people in the remotest parts of Sikkim benefit from better roads and transport links.
Healthcare has been one of the cornerstones of the SKM government. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Sikkim's response stood out. The government took swift and decisive action by conducting door-to-door testing and providing free vaccinations for all residents, making sure no one was left behind. The Karfectar Cancer Hospital and the establishment of dialysis centers and mobile health clinics across the state have also significantly increased access to healthcare services, especially in rural areas.
During its first term, the SKM government also introduced several measures to tackle non-communicable diseases, setting up facilities like cancer treatment centers and offering dialysis services at district hospitals. These improvements have been welcomed by citizens, especially when compared to the previous administration, which failed to invest adequately in healthcare infrastructure.
The SKM government has placed a high priority on education, understanding its pivotal role in shaping the future of the youth. The government established Khangchendzonga State University and the National Institute of Technology (NIT) at Khamdong, making higher education more accessible within the state. Along with these, the government has also introduced smart classrooms in government schools, ensuring that the digital divide is reduced and students are provided with the tools necessary for modern education.
The Chief Minister’s Mentorship Programme was launched to guide young students and prepare them for the future workforce, aligning their aspirations with career opportunities. This progressive approach to education contrasts sharply with the previous SDF government, which struggled to modernize the education system and failed to create sufficient opportunities for students.
The SKM government has introduced several schemes aimed at uplifting women, children, and marginalized communities. One of the key initiatives in this area is the Sikkim Aama Sashaktikaran Yojana, which provides financial support to rural mothers, empowering them economically and socially. The government also introduced the Vatsalya Scheme, offering support for women undergoing IVF treatment, ensuring that women in Sikkim have access to medical assistance and reproductive health services.
The 50% reservation for women in the police force is another landmark achievement that not only empowers women but also promotes gender equality in traditionally male-dominated sectors. The SKM’s commitment to social welfare is further reflected in the Bahini Scheme, which supports women and children in distress, helping them with financial assistance and health services
Environmental sustainability is another key area of focus for the SKM government. The Mero Rukh, Mero Santati program, an innovative scheme that encourages citizens to plant trees for every new birth in the state, has made significant contributions to improving the state's green cover. By encouraging active participation from the community, the SKM government has instilled a sense of responsibility towards preserving the environment.
Additionally, the Mega Homestay Project is a sustainable tourism initiative that aims to develop over 1,000 new homestays across rural Sikkim. This project is designed to benefit local communities economically while maintaining the ecological integrity of the state, showcasing a model for responsible tourism
Tourism, a key sector in Sikkim’s economy, has also received a major boost under the SKM government. The introduction of policies like the Sikkim Eco-Tourism Master Plan and improvements in eco-tourism infrastructure, including the renovation of historical sites and creation of new eco-friendly tourism destinations, have made Sikkim more attractive to both domestic and international visitors.
Unlike the previous SDF administration, which faced challenges in managing tourism growth without compromising on environmental sustainability, the SKM government has taken a more balanced approach, ensuring that tourism benefits local communities while protecting the state’s natural resources.
The SKM government has been particularly proactive in ensuring that the benefits of development reach every corner of the state. Through the Mega Homestay Project, rural Sikkim has seen a new wave of investment, creating job opportunities for locals while simultaneously preserving the state’s cultural heritage. The government has also focused on the development of rural infrastructure, including road construction and water supply schemes, ensuring that even the most remote villages are connected to the rest of the state.
The SKM government’s tenure has been marked by an unwavering commitment to development, social welfare, and sustainability. Through initiatives like the Mero Rukh, Mero Santati program, Aama Yojana, Mega Homestay Project, and improvements in healthcare and education, the government has made significant strides in creating a more inclusive and prosperous Sikkim. Compared to the previous SDF administration, the SKM government has implemented more tangible reforms and demonstrated a proactive approach in addressing the needs of the people.
As the SKM government enters its second term, it remains focused on ensuring that Sikkim continues to thrive. With its strong track record and clear vision for the future, the government is poised to build on its successes, offering new opportunities for all its citizens and ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for the state.
