Sikkim Celebrates First Amma Samman Diwas, Launches Nari Adalat for Women’s Justice

KalimNews with inputs from IPR, Gangtok, August 10, 2025: The Chief Minister of Sikkim, Mr. Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, attended the inaugural Aama Samman Diwas at Rangpo Ground on Sunday, an occasion dedicated to honouring and recognising the invaluable contributions of mothers to families, communities, and the state. He was accompanied by his mother, Mrs. Dhan Maya Tamang, and spouse, Mrs. Krishna Kumari Rai.

Following the Chief Minister's vision and directive, August 10 has been officially declared as Aama Samman Diwas and will be observed annually from this year onwards to acknowledge the social, cultural, and economic roles mothers play in society. The celebration was organised by the Women, Child, Senior Citizens, and Divyangjan Welfare Department, Government of Sikkim.

The celebration also saw the presence of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, the Mayor, Zilla Adhyakshas, Deputy Mayor, Upadhyakshas, Chief Secretary, Chairpersons, Advisors, and Heads of departments.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Mr. Prem Singh Tamang-Golay emphasised that the celebration is a tribute to honour the countless efforts of mothers in creating a nurturing environment. Reflecting on his experiences and the challenges he faced, the Chief Minister highlighted the crucial role of his mother in his upbringing and expressed his appreciation for the sacrifices made by mothers around the world, further addressing them as the unsung heroes of our society.

To honour their invaluable contributions, he announced that the state government has designated August 10 as "Aama Samman Diwas," a day to celebrate and acknowledge mothers for their lifelong dedication in promoting overall well-being.

The Chief Minister underscored the various initiatives launched by the state government to uplift and empower women, including Aama Yojana, Bahini Yojana, Ama Sahayog Yojana, Widow Pension Reform, Vastalya Yojana, and Sabbatical Leave. Additionally, he also highlighted the Mero Rukh Mero Santati initiative, which intertwines the bond between motherhood and the environment. He provided information on maternity leave benefits and educational facilities, further apprising about the installation of breastfeeding pods in every district to ensure that mothers have access to convenient spaces to support their needs.

Furthermore, he assured the people of his commitment to empowering mothers by providing necessary support that would help them become self-sufficient, independent, and thrive in their respective lives.

As part of the Aama Samman Yojana, 32,000 mothers will receive financial support of Rs. 40,000 each under the Sikkim Aama Sashaktikaran Yojana. The assistance will be provided in two instalments: Rs. 20,000 in the first phase and Rs. 20,000 in the second. It is worth mentioning that a total of 320 cheques were distributed to ten beneficiaries from each constituency, and the remaining beneficiaries will receive their cheques at their respective Block Administrative Centres.

The Chief Minister also launched the Nari Adalat under the Women, Child, Senior Citizens, and Divyangjan Department. This community-based forum, led by women, aims to deliver accessible and informal justice, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Nari Adalat provides a supportive, non-intimidating setting to resolve local disputes, focusing on issues such as minor family disagreements, non-severe domestic violence cases, marital conflicts, property disputes within families, child custody and maintenance matters, harassment, dowry-related problems, and other concerns related to women's rights.

During the event, Chairman of the PHE Department, Ms. Chumila Bhutia, underscored the invaluable contributions of mothers and emphasised their vital role in strengthening the community. Congratulating the attendees on the occasion of Amma Samman Diwas, Secretary of WCSC&DWD, Ms. Normit Lepcha, acknowledged the invaluable contributions mothers make to their families and society. She then highlighted the Chief Minister's initiative to honour mothers' efforts through various initiatives such as Sikkim Aama Sashaktikaran Yojana and Sikkim Aama Sahayog Yojana, aimed at empowering and fostering them toward self-reliance in the community.

Acknowledging mothers from various sectors for their contributions to society, the Chief Minister's Office felicitated and recognised 210 Aamas during the event. Over 4,200 mothers will be provided support for four-cylinder refills each year under the Aama Sahayog Yojana, RDD Department. The initiative would lessen the financial strain of fuel expenses and empower mothers to enhance the quality of living and help them in their overall holistic development.

Awards were also presented to the best-performing mothers under the Sikkim Aama Sashaktikaran Yojana:

• 1st Position: Ms. Sukhmaya Rai

• 2nd Position: Ms. Kalpana Rai

• 3rd Position: Ms. Tej Kumari Gurung

The event also featured a short film on mothers titled "Khabsey" by Indrakeel Post.

In addition, the Aama Suvidha Ghar was set up by the Chief Minister's Office in collaboration with the Women, Child, Senior Citizens & Divyangjan Welfare Department (WCSC&DWD). This facility offers women-focused amenities such as breastfeeding rooms, crèches, and healthcare corners, aiming to ensure comfort, hygiene, and safety for mothers attending the event.