Tribal Affairs MoStakes stock of Central schemes at Soreng

SORENG,  (IPR): The Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, Durgadas Uikey, visited Soreng district as part of his official tour and participated in a meeting held at the Rurban Complex, Soreng today.

The programme commenced with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs followed by a welcome speech delivered by DhirajSubedi DC (Soreng).

Durgadas Uikey, while addressing the gathering, conveyed his profound gratitude to the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, for his visionary leadership and transformative initiatives. He acknowledged that these efforts have elevated India to unprecedented heights and have significantly enhanced the welfare and development of the tribal communities across the nation. He also expressed his appreciation and admiration to the people present during the programme who have presented Sikkim through their presence and cultural attire.

Uikey also inquired about the ongoing central schemes and projects under various departments that included Health and Social Welfare departments, Public Works department, Roads and Bridges department, Food and Civil Supplies department, Agriculture department, Education department, Self Help Groups (SHGs), and Anganwadi workers.

Additionally, he provided his valuable insights and suggestions to each department, advocating for strong work ethics. He emphasised highly on the need for greater public awareness and urged all departments to conduct extensive awareness programmes to sensitize the public about governmental initiatives and welfare schemes.

Appreciating the dedication of the SHGs and Anganwadi workers, he assured them of continued support and encouragement, acknowledging their role in grassroots development.

Earlier, a detailed presentation was delivered by Dhiraj Subedi, highlighting the developments and ongoing projects of the district under various flagship schemes. He further gave an overview of the Aspirational District Programme emphasising, key focus areas such as health and nutrition, education, agriculture and water resources, financial inclusion and social development and basic infrastructure. He also highlighted the impact of both Aspirational District Programme and Aspirational Block Programme in the Chakung-Chumbung region.

The presentation also covered the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), showcasing sector-wise progress and achievements. Demographic details concerning the Scheduled Tribe population in the district and updates on the Sampoornat a Abhiyan were also shared.

Also, he highlighted few of the district initiatives such as One Day at School Campaign, Swaacha Pani, Swastha Haami, Doorstep Governance and Promotion of Girls’ Well-being through School Sanitation in partnership with Sulabh International. He further, acknowledged the collaboration with development partners such as Piramal Foundation, AROH Foundation (through SBI CSR) and the 17000 ft Foundation working in the education sector.

He touched upon the significant infrastructure developments in the district such as installation of Companion Boxes at schools, upgradation of Primary Health Sub-Centre at Chakung, upgradation of playground at Government Senior Secondary School, Sombaria, construction of 8-room school building at Mangsari, construction of auditorium hall at Ashram School, Jhusingthang, construction of Ashram School at Jhusingthang (Mangalbaria), construction of community halls at Sajbotey (Chumbung) and Sambhav Village (Mabong).

The house also had an interactive session with members of the zillapanchayat, panchayat members, heads of departments, heads of offices, representatives from SHGs and Anganwadi workers.

As part of his visit, Durgadas Uikey visited stalls, which was set up by SHGs and Anganwadi workers which showcased locally grown vegetables, grass roots-level innovations and their contributions to the community.

As a gesture of respect and appreciation, a token of love was presented to the Union Minister by the District Administration Centre, Soreng. The programme also featured cultural performances that reflected the rich heritage and traditions of the region.

The programme had the presence of Tila Devi Gurung (Zilla Adakshya), zilla panchayat members, panchayat members, PK Rai joint secretary (Social welfare department), Dhiraj Subedi DC (Soreng), Nakul Pradhan SP (Soreng), DR Bista ADC-I, Santosh Kumar Alley ADC-II, Gaayas Pega ADC (Dev), Prem K Subba SDM (HQ), DB Gurung chairman (State Bank of Sikkim), Ram Tamang deputy director (Social Welfare department), BDOs, heads of departments, officers and officials of various line departments, tribal representatives and general public.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by DR Bista ADC-I (Soreng), while the programme was compered by Rajani Pega DPO (DDMA).

The Union Minister also visited the 100-bedded hospital in Soreng, where he inquired about the facilities and services. He also interacted with healthcare professionals.