Gyalshing celebrates 78th Independence Day with enthusiasm & patriotism

GYALSHING,(IPR): The 78th Independence Day of India was celebrated with immense enthusiasm and patriotism at the Kyongsa Stadium in Gyalshing today. The momentous occasion marked another year of India's unwavering journey towards progress, prosperity, and unity.

The minister for Buildings & Housing and Labour departments, Bhim Hang Limboo graced the occasion as the chief guest. Upon arrival, he was accorded a warm welcome with offerings of traditional scarf by DC-Cum-chairperson (IDCC) Yishey D. Yongda.

Thereafter, the chief guest was accorded a Guard of Honour followed by the hoisting of the National Flag, accompanied by a soul-stirring rendition of the National Anthem by students of Girls Senior Secondary School, Kyongsa which was enthusiastically joined by all present.

The march past comprising contingents from Sikkim Police (Male), 36th Battalion Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB),  Sikkim Forest department, NCC, NSS(SLMGDC), NSS(GSSS), Students Police Cadet (DarapSSS), students contingents representing various schools and Pelling Brass Band was exhibited under the command of Parade Commander PI Sharad Subba, who led the contingents (a total of twenty two) with precision and pride.

Thereafter, the address of Governor of Sikkim to the people of the State was read out by DC Gyalshing. Subsequently, the address of the Chief Minister of Sikkim was read out by ADC (HQ).

The celebration was attended by Padma Shri Khandu Wangchuk Bhutia, Tshering Sherpa, SP Gyalshing, Rajani Sharma, ADC (HQ), Suresh Rai, ADC Gyalshing, N.B Biswakarma, SDM Gyalshing, Sonam W. Bhutia, ASP Gyalshing, Kessang D. Bhutia, SDPO, representatives of 36 Bn. SSB Heads of offices/officials representing various departments, retired Army personnel, awardees, eminent personalities, and the general public creating an atmosphere of patriotic fervor.

Thereafter, toppers of class X & Xll board exams under the district were felicitated as under:

1. Benoy Gurung (X), DSLMSSS, Darap, 94.6%

2. Marina Chettri(XII Arts), MSGSSS Bermiok, 93.08%

3. Sanarung Limboo(XII Science), Gyalshing GSSS, 89.06%

4. Tanisha Sharma (XII Commerce), Gyalshing GSSS, 87.02%

5. Ms. Dipika Jogi (XII Vocational), MSGSSS Bermiok, 86.08%

Following are the Meritorious Service Awardees under the district:

1. Dr. Tukki D Bhutia, Sr. Consultant, OBG,

Health & Family Welfare department

2. Ash Dhan Subba, Sr. Technical Officer, Health & Family Welfare department

3. Pem Dorjee Bhutia, Under Secretary, LM&DM department

4. Bikrom Rai, Revenue Inspector, LR&DM Department

5. Bal Bahadur Chettri, Medical Supervisor, Health & Family Welfare department

6. Karma Choki Gyaltsen Bhutia, UDC, Forest & Environment department

7. Phurba Chudup Sherpa, HFG, Forest & Environment department

8. Deen Hang Limboo, LNK/FM, Sikkim Fire & Emergency Service department

9. Mahendra Kumar Chettri, LNK/Driver, Sikkim Fire & Emergency Service department

10. Sonam Zangmu Bhutia, LNK, District Special Branch, Gyalshing

11. Ugen Tshering Bhutia, LNK, District Special Branch, Gyalshing

12. Chinta Mani Sharma, LNK, Police department

13. Karma Palzor Bhutia, LDC, Tourism & Civil Aviation department

14. Madan Chettri, Office Attendant, Department of Sports & Youth Affairs

15. Ladup Lepcha, Driver, Forest & Environment Department

The felicitation programme also saw Yangthang Sporting Club honour two exceptional athletes for their outstanding contributions to the sporting community. Amar Subba, fondly known as the "Marathon Man of Sikkim," was felicitated for his tireless efforts in promoting and uplifting the marathon culture throughout the State. Similarly, Johnson Subba was also recognized for his remarkable achievement in the National Championship in the 24 Hours & 100 km Stadium Run, held at Kanteerava Stadium, Bangalore. Namreeta Rai, cricketer, was also honoured with a letter of appreciation.

In keeping with the celebrations, the chief guest and DC Gyalshing greeted all ex-army personnel with a khada honouring for their exceptional service rendered to the country in their service period.

The celebrations continue with a range of cultural extravaganza from various schools and educational institutions.

Addressing the gathering, the minister extended joyous greetings on this celebratory day, paying tribute to the sacrifices of our freedom fighters and the principles that have shaped our nation's destiny. He highlighted various State government schemes and developmental initiatives undertaken under the visionary leadership of the Chief Minister.

He also addressed the growing threat of drug abuse, urging youngsters to stay vigilant and actively contribute to eradicating this menace from our society. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of the ‘Sunowlo Sikkim, Samriddha Sikkim’ initiative, which focuses on upgrading roads, water, and electricity facilities.

The much-anticipated finals of the 78th Independence Day Men's Open Invitational Football Tournament 2024 unfolded with fervour and enthusiasm between Police department and Singling Sporting Club (SSC).

After the full time Singling Sporting Club emerged victorious lifting their championship title of I-Day Men's Open Invitational Football Tournament 2024 with a score of 2-0.

Uttam Rai from SSC was declared as the Man of the Match, Roshan Limboo from SSC was bestowed with the title '’Hero of the tournament’ and Saroj Tamang was adjudged as the best goalkeeper of the tournament.

The 78th Independence Day celebrations concluded with trophies and prize distribution to the participants followed by the note by District Administration with SDM, Gyalshing delivering the vote of thanks expressing the district’s gratitude to the community, volunteers and sponsors who contributed to making this event a grand success.

The day-long event was successfully hosted by Rajesh Thapa, deputy director (Education), and Dinesh Pradhan, AD (Education).