Economy

Sikkim’s economy is chiefly agrarian, based of traditional farming techniques, on the terraced slopes. Sikkim is the largest producer of cardamom in India. Oranges, apples, tea and orchids are the other prime products. Hilly terrains, lack of reliable transportation are the reasons of the absence of any large-scale industry in the state. Breweries, tanning, and watch making are the main industries located mainly in the southern fringes of the state, primarily in Melli and Jorethang. Sikkim’s economy is heavily dependent on the tourism industry too. With improved infrastructure Tourism is slated to be the mainstay of the Sikkimese economy. Online gambling, the “Playwin Lottery” too is gaining grounds fast in the state. Sikkim is rich in copper, dolomite, limestone, graphite, mica, iron and coal.

The literacy rate in Sikkim is 69.68 %. A total of 1545 government-run educational institutes and eighteen privates are the academic backbone of Sikkim. There are about twelve colleges for higher education of which Sikkim Manipal University is the largest.

The roads of Sikkim are poor in condition owing to the heavy landslides and flooding during the Monsoons. The roads are maintained by the Border Roads Organization, an offshoot of the Indian army. The state government maintains 1857.35 kms of roadways. A number of hydroelectric power stations are the main source of electricity in this small state.

Sikkim is well connected by radio, newspaper dailies, Internet cafes, and satellite channels. The state is also well connected by local cellular companies.