Sikkim Highlights Need for Enhanced Support to Himalayan States at Seminar on Externally Aided Projects
New Delhi : Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang, participated in the Seminar on Externally Aided Projects (EAPs) held under the chairmanship of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The seminar was attended by Chief Ministers of the North Eastern States, senior officials of the Government of India, representatives of multilateral development institutions, and international financial organisations.
During the seminar, the Chief Minister expressed his sincere gratitude to the Union Finance Minister and the Government of India for their continued support and special consideration towards Sikkim’s developmental aspirations. He acknowledged the assistance extended under SASCI, the approval of the Pride of the Hills initiative, and the inclusion of Sikkim under the Buddhist Circuit Development Scheme for the North Eastern Region.
Highlighting the State’s successful implementation of Externally Aided Projects, the Chief Minister noted that Sikkim has effectively leveraged external assistance across key sectors, including power, forestry, connectivity, and the welfare of women and youth. He also placed several suggestions aimed at strengthening the EAP framework, including enhanced capacity building for State officials, timely communication of approvals, transparent funding guidelines, expedited appraisal processes, and continuity of project teams.
The Chief Minister further underscored the unique financial challenges faced by small Himalayan States and advocated for aligning EAP funding patterns with those of Centrally Sponsored Schemes. He suggested a funding structure comprising 90 per cent grant assistance from the Government of India and 10 per cent loan support. He also urged that State contributions such as land, right-of-way, and enabling infrastructure be duly recognised under such projects.
Expressing confidence in the outcomes of the deliberations, the Chief Minister stated that the discussions would contribute towards creating a more effective and responsive framework, enabling States like Sikkim to harness external assistance for sustainable, inclusive, and resilient development.
The Chief Minister also extended his heartfelt appreciation to the Government of Meghalaya for its warm hospitality and excellent arrangements during the programme. He further conveyed his gratitude to the Governments of Assam and West Bengal for their valuable support and assistance during the visit.
