Sikkim celebrates 79th Independence Day with zeal

GANGTOK, (IPR): The 79th Independence Day was celebrated with much grandeur with rest of the nation at Paljor Stadium today.

In his address, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay remembered the nation’s freedom fighters, honouring their unwavering courage and immense sacrifices in India’s independence. He expressed his gratitude for the continued support extended by the Prime Minister towards Sikkim’s growth and development. He highlighted the significance of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, duly emphasising the State government’s upcoming developmental schemes across various sectors and also underscored some of the key development initiatives of the State government.

The programme commenced with the Chief Minister ceremoniously hoisting the National Flag, followed by the national salute. He then reviewed the Independence Day parade, which featured contingents from ITBP, SSB, SAP, 2nd IRBn, 3rd IRBn, Sikkim Police (Male Platoon), Sikkim Police (Female Platoon), Sikkim Forest, Home Guards & Civil Defence, NCC, TNSSS, Tashi Namgyal Academy, Modern SSS, PNGSSS, Enchey SSS, West Point SSS, Tadong SSS, Deorali Girls' SSS, Sikkim Police Pipe Band and Sikkim Police Brass Band.

The parade was led by Parade Commander, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Sonam Yangkeela Bhutia with Police Inspector Rajeev Mukhia.

Following the parade inspection, awards were conferred in recognition of outstanding service and performance across various categories. The occasion also witnessed a series of important launches and releases by the Chief Minister.

Releases by the Chief Minister

1. Book titled "Ecclesiastical Affairs in Sikkim" by the Ecclesiastical Department – offering an overview of the religious, cultural, and administrative aspects of the department.

2. Book titled "Database of Passed Out Trainees (Artisans and Weavers) from 1957 to 2025" by the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom – the first official database by the department, useful for policy-making and planning.

3. "Sikkim State Data Policy" – released by the IT Department to help collect, store, and share data safely and transparently for better public services.

4. "Digital Police Web Application" by the Sikkim Police Department – for improved case tracking, investigation, leadership monitoring, anti-drug action, and cybercrime response.

5. "Online Property Registration System" – by the Land Revenue and Disaster Management Department – aimed at improving transparency and reducing disputes in land registration.

6. Official website "IPR.Sikkim.Gov.in" – launched by the Information and Public Relations Department for access to verified information, public notices, and e-services.

7. "Paper Lottery Management" Software – by the Directorate of Sikkim State Lotteries – enhances accounting transparency and efficiency in paper lottery management, marking a national first in lottery technology.

This was followed by a captivating pipe band display featuring renditions of various patriotic tunes, after which cultural performances were presented by Enchey SSS, West Point SSS, and Burtuk SS.

As part of the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative, artists from Uttar Pradesh and Manipur presented captivating cultural performances, showcasing the diversity and unity of India. The celebration also featured a band display by the Black Cat Division.

The Sikkim Police (Female) Platoon was awarded the All Round Best Platoon in Division A while the Sikkim Forest contingent received the same honour in Division B. PNGSSS emerged as the winner of the All Round Best School Contingent Award.