Chief Minister Golay Announces Closure of All Melas in Sikkim to Ensure Distraction-Free Environment for Students Ahead of Board Exams

KalimNews, Gangtok, January 20, 2025 : Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, on Tuesday, announced that all ongoing melas (festivals) across the state would be closed by midnight to create a quiet, distraction-free environment for students preparing for their upcoming Class 10 and 12 board exams. These exams are scheduled to begin in February, and the move is aimed at supporting students' focus during this crucial preparation period.

The announcement came on the final day of the week-long Maghey Sankranti Mela 2025, which concluded with a grand ceremony at the Jorethang Playground. This year’s mela marked a historic occasion, as it was the first time in the event’s history that Sikkim’s Governor had inaugurated the festival. Chief Minister Tamang addressed the significance of the mela and stated, "This year's Maghey Sankranti Mela is historic, not only because of its scale and success but also because it is the first time the Governor has inaugurated the event." The mela, which began on January 14, officially concluded today, with all festivities wrapping up by midnight.

The fair featured a star-studded lineup of performances, including Padmashree awardee Bollywood singer Kailash Kher and his band Kailasa, popular singer Pawandeep Rajan, Nepalese singers Uday and Manila Sotang, Sabin Rai and the Pharaoh, Suresh Kumar, Carnival Band, Bipul Chhetri, Trishna Gurung, Jetshen Dohna Lama, Remanti Rai, and many more, bringing a vibrant cultural experience to the community.

In his speech, CM Tamang reiterated the importance of prioritizing the education of Sikkim’s students. "Starting tomorrow, all ongoing melas in Sikkim will be closed, as we prioritize the upcoming board exams for Class 10 and Class 12 students," he said. He emphasized that the state government was committed to ensuring that students could concentrate on their studies without distractions from cultural events.

While the closure of these melas will ensure a quieter environment, the Chief Minister also highlighted the positive impact these events had on local communities. "The Jorethang Maghey Mela is not just a cultural celebration, but a platform that has created numerous opportunities for the local population. From businesses such as stalls, hotels, transportation, and homestays, to artists and entrepreneurs, many have benefited from this event," Tamang noted.

The Chief Minister also used the opportunity to talk about the broader goals of his government. "The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha government is committed to providing immediate assistance to those in need. Unlike previous administrations, which made empty promises, we have delivered. For example, when a government employee tragically lost his hand in an accident, we provided him with Rs 2 lakh from government funds. Additionally, we have launched initiatives like the 'Aama Yojana' to provide Rs 1,100 to mothers and supported citizens with Rs 4,400 to refill their cooking gas cylinders," Tamang stated.

Addressing the challenges faced by Sikkim’s farming community, especially in Jorethang, the Chief Minister noted the severe impact of diseases on the region’s cardamom crops. However, he reassured the community that the state government was working to revive this important agricultural sector through scientific research and initiatives such as the "Mero Alaichi, Mero Dhan" scheme.

CM Tamang also urged the people of Sikkim to take responsibility for their health and work towards building a healthier future for the state. "Our community is facing a rise in cancer cases, partly due to unhealthy food habits. It’s time to change that and work together to build a healthier, drug-free Sikkim," he said.

The Maghey Sankranti Mela 2025 came to a vibrant and successful conclusion, with the Chief Minister gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest. He was joined by other dignitaries, including Madam Krishna Rai, Former MLA, Ms. Raj Kumari Thapa, Deputy Speaker SLA, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, Chairpersons, Advisors, Councillors, and Officers of various Departments.

As the celebration wrapped up, the Chief Minister's message was clear: Sikkim’s future lies in ensuring both cultural growth and the well-being of its citizens, while prioritizing education for the younger generation.