Sikkim celebrates 76th Republic Day

GANGTOK, (IPR): The momentous occasion of the 76th Republic Day was grandly celebrated here at Paljor Stadium, Gangtok today.

The event commenced with the arrival of Governor Om Prakash Mathur, received by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, R Telang, chief secretary and Akshay Sachdeva, DGP.

The programme had the presence of cabinet ministers, HoDs from various departments, senior officers of the state government and citizens of the State.

The magnificent celebration continued with the unfurling of the national flag by the Governor followed by the national anthem.

After receiving the national salute, the Governor proceeded towards reviewing the Republic Day parade.

The event was exhibited with March Past by Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), 2nd Battalion Meghalaya Police, Sikkim Armed Police (SAP), 2nd India Reserve Battalion (IRBn), 3rd India Reserve Battalion (IRBn), Sikkim Police (Male) Sikkim Police (Female), Sikkim Forest, Sikkim Home Guards, NCC and Sikkim Police Band.

In his address, Om Prakash Mathur expressed his fulfilment of immense pride and gratitude on celebrating the triumph of democracy, justice, and freedom in our nation. Furthermore, he underscored the sacrifices made by countless individuals who shaped the nation. He continued that this day reminds him of the spirit of unity, diversity, and progress that binds us together as a nation.

As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Sikkim's Statehood, he expressed on looking back with pride at the immense strides the State has made so far. From the fields of tourism, health, education, and infrastructure to the areas of governance and digital connectivity, he encouraged the State to continue pushing forward, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey of progress.

He outlined few of the significant strides made by the State in various sectors.

According to the latest NITI Aayog Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) assessment, Sikkim has shown remarkable improvement in its overall SDG scores compared to the previous survey conducted in FY 2020-21.

Sikkim also leads the nation in judicial infrastructure, with the highest court density in India-6 courts per lakh population-ensuring timely justice and reinforcing our commitment to a fair and just society.

Similarly, Sikkim has made a remarkable progress in the field of nutrition and health, environmental sustainability. The State has also been successful in establishing a pharmaceutical manufacturing hub which has the potential to become a leading centre for healthcare and holistic wellness.

Likewise, the programme was highlighted with presentations and awards conferred by the Governor, to Police personnel, Sikkim State Meritorious Service Awards, Certificates of Appreciation for exemplary work and felicitation of 1971 War Veterans in recognition of their dedicated services of the state.

Furthermore, to honour their dedication, the chief secretary, read citations for the awardees as a mark of respect.

Subsequently, organised by the Indian Army, the programme was taken forward with flagging-off ceremony of the cycle rally. The expedition was flagged by the Governor and the Chief Minister after which, they visited the army equipment display.

Thereafter, the event witnessed Army Pipe Band Display and Brass Band Display by Sikkim Police.

The programme also had cultural performances like, Khukri Dance by Army, Kathak Dance from Uttar Pradesh, Bhangra dance, bamboo dance from Mizoram, Integration dance, a patriotic song, and national anthem by the Culture department, Government of Sikkim.