Gangtok: The State-level celebrations of 78th Independence Day was held at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok which had the Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay hoisting the National Flag followed by national salute and review of the Independence Day parade.
The Chief Minister in his address on the occasion welcomed the nation to celebrate 50th statehood anniversary on May 16, 2025. He highlighted how in the 50 years of democracy, the state has flourished.
“I emphasized the relentless efforts of our government in driving the development of our state and improving the welfare of our people. From the very beginning, our government has been committed to prioritizing the needs and aspirations of the citizens of Sikkim, working tirelessly to make our state a model for others to follow. The trust and support that the people have shown us has been our greatest source of inspiration, fueling our journey and leading to Sikkim receiving numerous prestigious recognitions in recent times”, said the Chief Minister.
The Independence Day parade was led by Rinku Wangmu Bhutia, Deputy Superintendent of Police with participation by contingents from Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), Sikkim Armed Police, Second and Third Indian Reserve Battalion, Sikkim Police, Sikkim Forest, Home Guards and Civil Defense, National Cadet Corps Sikkim, Sikkim Police Pipe and Brass Band along with 8 schools from around Gangtok.
The Chief Minister presented the State Meritorious Service Award to 19 government employees for their services and dedication to the State in various sectors. He also handed over Certificate of Appreciation alongwith cash reward of Rs. 50,000 to the following in recognition of their services in their field of duty and during the flash flood that occurred on October 4, 2023.
Golay further presented Certificate of Appreciation and cash reward of Rs. 50,000 to M Bharani Kumar (IAS) Secretary for Health and Welfare Department for his outstanding and exemplary performance for conducting peaceful and successful general elections 2024 as district collector Gyalshing district for which he has also been recognized as the best performing District Election Officer.
Similarly, Major Pema Dorjee Bhutia was felicitated for receiving Gallantry Award on the occasion of Republic Day 2024. A cash incentive of Rs. One Lakh was awarded to him in recognition of displaying a high degree of professionalism for leading a crucial, high stake covert mission under uncertain circumstances in one of the threatened sector in the Himalayas, as a part of “Operation Snow Leopard” as an Assault Troop, Commander, thus preventing the adversary from jeopardizing the National Security.
Also, journalist Chetan Gazmer was presented with Teesta Rangeet Abhiral Kalam Puraskhar for his 30 plus years of dedication to State’s journalism.
The official celebration was followed by cultural presentation from various States along with the highly anticipated I-Day football tournament final.
Similar celebrations took place across the State.
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