Sikkim CM Announces Additional Grant for Journalists of Sikkim during PCS’s 22nd Foundation Day

Subash Rai

KalimNews with inputs from IPR Sikkim, Gangtok, July 21, 2024 : In a significant announcement, Chief Minister of Sikkim Prem Singh Tamang disclosed new initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of journalists in Sikkim. Effective immediately, recipients of the Kangchendzonga Kalam Purashkar 2024 and Lagansheel Yuva Patrakar Purashkar 2024 will receive Rs. 1,01,000 and Rs. 51,000 respectively. 

Kamal Mukhia

Nitesh R Pradhan 

CM P.S. Tamang spoke at The Press Club of Sikkim (PCS) as the chief guest during its 22nd foundation day celebration. Responding to longstanding demands from the PCS, the Chief Minister Tamang assured the introduction of comprehensive medical insurance in collaboration with Central Referral Hospital, Tadong, ensuring journalists have access to necessary healthcare.

Suben Pradhan

Furthermore, addressing the financial security concerns of journalists, Tamang revealed plans for a pension scheme to be administered by the Information and Public Relations Department under the Chief Minister's Discretionary Grant. This initiative aims to provide journalists with a stable post-retirement income, acknowledging their dedicated service to society.

The Press Club of Sikkim celebrated its 22nd foundation day today at Manan Kendra under the theme "Celebrating the roots that make us stronger and the vision that guides us forward." 

Kiran Rasaily

The event was attended by prominent dignitaries including Cabinet Ministers, MLA-cum-Advisors, local government officials, former public representatives, and representatives from various organizations and institutes of Sikkim and the Kalimpong Press Club. Addressing the audience, Chief Minister Tamang praised the Press Club of Sikkim for its unwavering commitment to journalistic ethics and standards, highlighting the pivotal role of media in society as the watchdog and informant of public affairs. 

In addition to these measures, the Chief Minister underscored the importance of an effective press accreditation system to facilitate greater access for journalists across the country. This accreditation will serve as formal recognition of their professional status, enabling them to cover diverse events and access essential information. 

Bhim Bdr Rai

Highlighting the government's commitment to supporting the media fraternity, Chief Minister Tamang pledged to submit detailed proposals for the medical insurance and pension schemes for swift approval by the State Government. He emphasized that these initiatives are essential to ensuring the well-being and professional development of journalists in Sikkim.

During the ceremony, Bhim Rawat, President of PCS, expressed gratitude to the State Government and stakeholders for their support in nurturing a vibrant media community in Sikkim. He lauded PCS as a crucial platform for professional growth and advocacy for ethical journalism.

Ashok Oberoi

The event also saw the launch of the official website of PCS and the presentation of annual awards. Senior journalist and copy editor of Summit Times. Subash Rai was honored with the Kangchendzonga Kalam Purashkar 2024, while Nitesh R Pradhan and Suben Pradhan received the Lagansheel Yuva Patrakar Purashkar 2024 for their outstanding contributions to journalism. 

Kamal Mukhia, who has served as a journalist for over 30 years, was honored for his exemplary career in journalism

Additionally, architect and musician Kiran Rasaily and Shovan Mitra from PIB received accolades for their steadfast support of PCS.

Kazi Burathoki,

Acknowledging their dedication, PCS also recognized the invaluable services of four newspaper vendors and distributors Bhim Bahadur Rai, Kazi Burathoki, Kuber Basnet, and Ashok Oberoi.

Furthermore, PCS honored the Chief Minister for acknowledging the State Government's initiatives in fostering a supportive environment for journalism.

Shovan Mitra

Awardee Subash Rai spoke about the significance of receiving the Kangchendzonga Kalam Purashkar 2024, emphasizing that it symbolizes more than just personal achievement but also signifies a recognition of his profession. He highlighted the award as a powerful reminder of journalism's pivotal role in society.

Rai expressed gratitude for the support received from PCS and the media houses he has collaborated with, crediting them for his professional growth from newspaper printing to news publishing. He dedicated this award to the media fraternity and his family, acknowledging their influential role in shaping his career. Citing his own experiences as a journalist, he encouraged his media colleagues to embrace challenges and advance with new technologies.

Kuber Basnet

The Chief Minister and PCS expressed mutual appreciation for each other's efforts in fostering a conducive environment for journalism in Sikkim, underscoring the vital role of media in shaping public discourse and upholding democratic values.CM Tamang, drawing attention to the tradition of requiring the Chief Minister's recommendation in every matter, stressed the need for decentralization of power to the respective departmental ministers. He also requested the officials to simplify procedures, ensuring that citizens are not unnecessarily harassed and are instead provided with solutions to their problems.

At the event conducted by its Secretary Dilliram Dulal and featuring cultural presentations by PCS members, journalist Aaron Rai delivered the vote of thanks.