Gangtok, Jun 1: The Union Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region (MDONER) has unveiled a ₹583-crore package for Sikkim, positioning the state as a national model for sustainable growth, organic farming, and eco-friendly development.

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, during his visit to Gangtok for the 51st Statehood Day celebrations, launched the “Mission Sikkim Organics” programme with an estimated outlay of ₹360 crore. The initiative aims to transform Sikkim into a globally integrated premium organic economy, benefiting more than 66,000 farming families. Of this, MDONER will contribute ₹85 crore towards infrastructure, aggregation systems, and programme coordination, while additional support will come through convergence with Central ministries, NABARD, APEDA, and private-sector investments.

In addition to the organic mission, the Centre inaugurated and laid foundation stones for 21 development projects worth ₹223 crore, covering roads, bridges, tourism infrastructure, and public connectivity works to strengthen regional access and economic opportunities. Among the major projects reviewed were the Temi Tea Estate development in Namchi, the under-construction Khangchendzonga State University campus at Tarku, and the Bhaleydunga Skywalk project under PM-DevINE.

Scindia also visited the Orchidarium at Saramsa and interacted with residents at MG Marg, praising Sikkim’s biodiversity conservation efforts. He emphasized that the state’s cultural richness, environmental protection, and organic identity continue to make it a leading example for the Northeast and the country.