



















Sunday, Feb 15, 2026 04:30 [IST]
Last Update: Saturday, Feb 14, 2026 23:02 [IST]
GANGTOK,: The District Administrative Centre (DAC), Pakyong, presented
Pratha Celebrating Generations, an Intergenerational Day programme celebrating
the old and the new while honouring the bond between the elderly and the youth,
under the District-Level Integrated Senior Citizens Welfare Programme of the
Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana.
The
programme was organised by the Women, Child, Senior Citizen and Divyangjan
Welfare Department, Pakyong District, at St. Xavier’s School Ground on Saturday.
MLA,
Gnathang-Machong Constituency and Advisor, Women, Child, Senior Citizen and
Divyangjan Welfare department, Pamin Lepcha, graced the event as the chief guest.
Also
present were District Collector, Pakyong, Rohan Agawane; Additional District
Collector, Pakyong, Pulkit; SDM (HQ), Thendup Lepcha; Zilla Panchayat and
Panchayat members; Heads of Offices from various departments; teachers;
students; and senior citizens.
It
was heartening to witness meaningful interactions between the youth and senior
citizens through a variety of engaging activities that encouraged
participation, empathy, and social responsibility, said the Gnathang-Machong
MLA.
In
her press statement, Pamin Lepcha expressed her happiness to see the enthusiasm
and vibrant participation of the public. The stalls set up by Self-Help Groups
(SHGs), book exhibitions, and recreational games added great value to the event
while promoting community engagement and local enterprise, she added.
“Most
importantly, the programme beautifully upheld the dignity, wisdom, and
invaluable contributions of our elders. The respect and honour accorded to them
serve as a powerful reminder that a society progresses when it cherishes its
roots and cares for those who paved the way for future generations.”
“As
the MLA of 21-Gnathang Machong constituency, I firmly believe that such
initiatives play a crucial role in strengthening social harmony, preserving our
cultural ethos, and building a compassionate and inclusive society. I look
forward to many more such programmes that bring generations together and
reinforce the values that define us as a community,” said Lepcha. She extended
her heartfelt congratulations to the organising team for this commendable
effort.
Giving
an overview of the festival, the District Collector informed that Pratha
Celebrating Generations was conceptualised to celebrate love, bonding, and the
continuity of traditions between the elderly and the younger generation.
He
shared that the festival derives its name from the idea that traditions are
passed down through generations and emphasised that students form the backbone
of the celebration, with participation from across the district.
During
the programme, senior advocate, Sikkim State Legal Services Authority (SLSA),
Narendra Rai, delivered an informative session on the legal rights of senior
citizens. He elaborated on legal remedies, maintenance tribunals, and
provisions available in cases of neglect, discrimination, or denial of proper
care.
The
day-long programme comprised a vibrant mix of competitive and non-competitive
events. The segments included various student-centred activities, while
engagement corners such as painting, manga art, book exhibitions, and
interactive games were also present. A free health camp was also organised for
participants.
The
event also featured skill-building sessions for students, including personality
development and soft skills training led by Aanchal Agawane, along with a
session on AI and technology facilitated by Dinesh Dhungel. Likewise,
storytelling sessions were led by Nabin Dabari, highlighting oral traditions
passed down through generations.
The
programme additionally hosted a walkathon for senior citizens and the launch of
books, including Merger Memories & Other Stories and Numkum.
The
day concluded with a prize distribution ceremony honouring winners of various
competitive events, informs a press release.