Sikkim Assembly Elections 2024: Decoding the Manifestos

Voting for the Sikkim Legislative Assembly took place in a single phase on April 19. The results will be declared on June 2. Currently, the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) governs the state.

The Chief Electoral Officer notified the following details of voters in Sikkim on March 16, 2024:¹

Sr. No.	Category	Number of Voters
1	Total Voters in Sikkim	4,63,929
2	Male Voters	2,32,381
3	Female Voters	2,31,545
4	Third Gender Voters	3
5	Service Voters – * Male Service Voters * Female Service Voters	2,469 33
6	Voters with Disabilities (PwD)	4,192
7	Senior Citizen Electors (Above 85 yrs)	2,473

In 2019, the total voter turnout in Sikkim was 81.41%, whereas in 2024, it was slightly lower at 79.90%. The electoral contest primarily features the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM). Therefore, this blog unveils the promises made by both parties in their manifestos.

The SKM’s Manifesto:

Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) president and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang unveiled the party’s manifesto for the upcoming assembly and Lok Sabha polls in the state. The manifesto is based on nine guarantees for social uplift that are dignity, capability, good governance, education, health, empowerment, pride, prosperity, and social equality. In the presence of senior party leaders and supporters from Zoom-Salghari, Rinchenpong, Daramdin, and Soreng-Chakung constituencies of Soreng and Gyalshing districts, the 56-page manifesto titled “9 Guarantees of P S Tamang” was unveiled.

Furthermore, CM Prem Singh Tamang claimed that he embarked on the journey towards achieving ‘Sunowlo Sikkim, Sammridh Sikkim’, and expressed optimism and determination. According to the CM, “The next five years after the elections will be dedicated to the people of Sikkim who will see a major transformation from the existing scenario. The programs and policies lined up in our manifesto will bring about positive change in society.”²

Moreover, he highlighted that post delimitation; the number of seats in the state assembly would increase to 40 from the current 32. He also mentioned that 33% of the 12 seats would be reserved for women. “All the 40 seats in the assembly will be reserved seats in the 2029 elections. Sikkim will be a tribal state in the coming days”.³

The BJP’s Manifesto – ‘Sankalp Patra’:

BJP unveils its comprehensive manifesto titled “Viksit Bharat Viksit Sikkim: Sankalp Patra 2024” for the Sikkim Assembly Elections. With the vision to come into power, the BJP has come up with a more comprehensive manifesto compared to SKM. Through these promises in the manifesto, the BJP aims to challenge the incumbent SKM government in Sikkim. This manifesto outlines a robust vision aimed at propelling Sikkim towards comprehensive development across various sectors.

Preserving Peace and Heritage: Sikkim Pratham

At the core of their commitment lies the preservation of peace and cultural heritage. Upholding Article 371F, advocating for Limbu-Tamang seat reservation, and ensuring language inclusion are fundamental. Additionally, establishing an Expert Committee to assess tribal status further underscores their dedication to preserving Sikkim’s rich diversity.

Nurturing Sikkim as an Education Hub: Shikshako Guarantee (Education)

The BJP envisions Sikkim as a beacon of education excellence. Through infrastructure enhancement and fostering higher education opportunities, initiatives like establishing a State Board, collaborating with premier institutes, and implementing schemes such as Super-30 and Sikkim SHRI Mission will nurture this vision.⁴

Empowering Agriculture for Prosperity: Kisanko Samriddhiko Guarantee (Farmer)

Agriculture forms the bedrock of Sikkim’s economy. Their pledge to increase aid under the PM Kisan Yojana and introduce the Sikkim Agri-Infra Mission, alongside endeavors such as the Tropical Fruit and Floriculture Missions, will ensure farmers thrive. Securing GI tags for local produce further supports this endeavor.

Ensuring Accessible Healthcare for All: Swasthya Suvidhako Guarantee (Healthcare)

Healthcare accessibility is a fundamental right. Collaborating with the Central Government, they commit to establishing advanced medical facilities such as the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS). Initiatives like free coverage under PM Ayushman Bharat Yojana and the formation of a Sikkim Yoga Board underscore their commitment to holistic well-being.

Fostering Tourism for Economic Growth: Paryatan Vikasko Guarantee (Tourism)

Tourism holds immense potential for economic growth. Their focus on unveiling the Sikkim Tourism Policy and enhancing adventure sports infrastructure, alongside initiatives like rural ecotourism promotion, aims to position Sikkim as a premier destination for travelers and workers alike.⁵

Empowering Women for Socio-Economic Progress: Mahila Shashaktikaranko Guarantee (Women)

Women’s empowerment is paramount to societal progress. Through investments in self-help groups (SHGs) and initiatives like the Mukhyamantri Kanya Sashaktikaran Yojana, they strive to create a more equitable society where every woman thrives.

Creating Opportunities for the Youth: Yuva Shashaktikaranko Guarantee (Youth)

The youth are the torchbearers of tomorrow. By creating 25,000 jobs in five years and establishing the Sikkim State Youth Commission, they empower them to lead Sikkim towards a brighter future.

Inclusive Development for All: Sabyoka Saath, Sabyoka Vikas

Inclusivity forms the cornerstone of their vision. Initiatives such as Aama community canteens and increased Dearness Allowance for State Government employees signify their commitment to ensuring no one is left behind.

Driving Economic Growth: Aarthik ra Audyogik Vikasko Guarantee (Economy and Industry)

Economic prosperity is key to overall development. Through initiatives like the Sikkim Green Hydrogen Policy and the establishment of export-oriented SEZs and technology parks, they aim to propel Sikkim’s economy to new heights.

Building Robust Infrastructure: Baliyo Purvadharako Guarantee (Infrastructure)

Infrastructure lays the foundation for progress. Introducing the Sikkim Gati Shakti Master Plan and implementing projects like Gangtok’s transformation into India’s first Green Hydrogen smart city will catalyze development.

Transparent and Efficient Governance: Sushaashanko Guarantee (Governance)

Accountability and transparency are non-negotiable. Initiatives like launching a CBI inquiry into the Teesta Dam project and introducing the Sikkim Parivar Card demonstrate their commitment to efficient governance.

In conclusion, the manifestos of the major political parties in Sikkim, namely the BJP and SKM, exemplify a competitive drive to appeal to diverse sections of society. With a heightened focus on the state’s development, encompassing key sectors such as education, agriculture, healthcare, tourism, women empowerment, youth development, economy, infrastructure, and governance. As voters across the state analyze the wide array of schemes proposed by both parties, they have been tasked with the critical decision of determining which vision aligns most closely with their aspirations for the future of Sikkim.

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