CM attends State level Sakewa celebrations at Dalapchand

PAKYONG, (IPR): Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang accompanied by his spouse Krishna Rai attended the State level Sakewa Celebration 2022 organised by Akhil Kirat Rai Sangh (AKRS) Sikkim at Dalapchand, Pakyong district today.

At the inception of the programme, the Chief Minister along with all the delegates visited Rai Khim and then Manpa stall.

RK Waling, president, State level Sakewa Celebration Committee, in his welcome address gave a brief introductory speech about Sakewa celebration followed by a 'Bhuruwa silli' traditional Kirat dance staged by RTMSS, Ranka.

JP Rai, general secretay, AKRS Sikkim reminisced about the journey of the Sangh since its inception which was established in the 1990s. He added that the journey so far had been fruitful because of the perseverance and emotional oneness of the Kirat community. He informed that, if approval is granted by UGC, they envisioned taking Rai language to be taught at the university level. In addition, he acknowledged the contribution of the Chief Minister in upholding the values of Kirat community and working towards their progress.

The Chief Minister released the book authored by Dr. SK Rai and the release of AKRS Sikkim calendar and brochures by youth wing. The celebration enthralled the audience with an array of musical presentation.

Jacob Khaling, political advisor to the CM, in his concluding speech appreciated the effort put in by the organizing committee and also other communities of the area in making the event a success. He acknowledged and thanked the Chief Minister for creating an environment based on community unity in the areas. He also underlined the development works initiated by the State government since its inception and as well highlighted the various upcoming projects to be established like Rai School for the Rai community, Mangkhim at Melli, Chemchey and Nandugoan.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister applauded the work done by the AKRS Sikkim for executing phenomenal State level Sakewa celebration. He emphasized on the importance of celebrating Sakewa not only in individual capacity but as a whole. He added that AKRS Sikkim has been the longest serving associations in Sikkim, working tirelessly for past three decades for the upliftment of the Kirat community. He recalled about the hurdles faced by the Rai community over the past many years.

The Chief Minister assured full cooperation to construct holy shrines of Rai community wherever it is required. He mentioned that the demands placed by the Rai community have been considered and shall be fulfilled by the State government.

Further he also informed on various upcoming construction of Regional Linguistic Centre in different districts and as well requested the locals to preserve it and use it commercially and should be carried forward independently benefiting the locals and the entire community.