Sikkim Annual Plan 2010-11 finalised

New Delhi, May 6 (ANI): Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Chamling on Thursday finalised the annual plan for the year 2010-11 for Sikkim.

The Plan outlay was agreed at Rs.1175 crores. This includes special Plan assistance of Rs. 225 crores for projects of special importance to the State.

"The plan realization of the State is good. The human development indicators indicate balanced growth. The State has immense tourism potential but care should be taken to ensure that the growth is more in quality tourism. The State must give priority to improving connectivity," said Ahluwalia giving his comments on the plan performance of the State.The focus on self employment and capacity building initiatives are steps in the right direction," he added.

Ahluwalia also appreciated the efforts of the Government to ensure that growth is inclusive and in this regard specially lauded the efforts in empowering women and Panchayati Raj institutions.

Sikkim Minister of Labour cum Roads and Bridges, R.B Subba drew attention of the Commission to efforts being made by the State Government to improve infrastructure and improve pace of growth with no compromise on inclusiveness of the development strategy.

"The green field airport at Pakyong will be operational by January 2012. The Government has taken up the programme to provide comprehensive annual/periodical check up for all citizens for appropriate intervention individually and collectively," said Subba.

"Out of 450 village blocks, so far 425 have been electrified under ongoing RGGVY scheme and 100 per cent electrification would be reached by the end of this year," he added.

Subba thanked the Central Government for agreeing give rail-link to the State, and added that the first phase Rangpo will be linked to Sevok station. (ANI)