Smt Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance & Corporate Minister, spearheaded a pivotal Credit Outreach Programme in Gangtok, Sikkim, unveiling several Central Government schemes and empowering the state’s financial framework. Alongside the Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri P S Tamang Golay and esteemed dignitaries, Sitharaman emphasized the government’s commitment to Sikkim’s growth post-devastating floods last year.
Highlighting ‘Modi Ki Guarantee’ in diverse central government schemes, Sitharaman underlined their expansive reach, benefitting all corners of the country, including Sikkim. Key statistics revealed the significant impact of various schemes in Sikkim:
- Jan Dhan Yojana: 88,619 accounts in Sikkim, aiding financial inclusion.
- PM MUDRA Yojana: Disbursed loans worth Rs 1,313 crore in Sikkim, aiding 1.43 lakh beneficiaries.
- Stand-up India Scheme: Supported 545 entrepreneurs with loans worth Rs 39 crore in Sikkim.
- PM SVANidhi: Assisted over 1,039 street vendors in Sikkim, particularly empowering women.
Sitharaman distributed sanction letters worth Rs 228 crore to more than 2,640 beneficiaries under various schemes, fostering economic empowerment. She highlighted the high density of banking facilities in Sikkim, significantly above the national average, urging its youth and women to utilize these resources for business growth.
The program showcased the government’s attention to hill states and the Northeast, emphasizing infrastructure development like Sikkim’s first airport at Pakyong and the Smart Cities Mission in Gangtok and Namchi. Sitharaman assured assistance from banking institutions like NABARD and SIDBI for Sikkim’s rebuilding post-floods, instilling hope for the state’s rejuvenation.
Smt Nirmala Sitharaman’s Credit Outreach Programme in Gangtok symbolized the government’s dedication to financial inclusion and empowerment in Sikkim. The allocation of funds, support for entrepreneurs, and focus on infrastructure and development initiatives are poised to pave the way for a resilient and thriving Sikkim in the times ahead.