Sikkim CM Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive Growth, Cultural Preservation and Environmental Stewardship

KalimNews with inputs from IPR|  August 9, 2025 |  Gangtok  :  Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, accompanied by his wife Krishna Rai, graced the 2025 Tendong Lho Rum Faat celebrations held at Manan Kendra, Gangtok, as the chief guest. The culturally significant event was marked by the presence of Prince Miwang Denjong Gyalsay Rinpoche Palden Gyurmed Namgyal, whose dignified attendance was deeply acknowledged by the Chief Minister.

In his address, Mr. Tamang underlined the symbolic relevance of Tendong Lho Rum Faat as a testament to the state’s longstanding commitment to environmental protection. He noted that this commitment, rooted in the cultural ethos of the region, has continued to thrive through progressive state policies and community-driven initiatives.

Highlighting Sikkim’s pioneering role in environmental conservation, the Chief Minister referenced central and state-level legal frameworks that uphold ecological protection. He drew particular attention to the internationally recognised "Mero Rukh Mero Santati" initiative, which links the birth of every child to tree planting efforts, reinforcing ecological consciousness from the very beginning of life. This initiative is supported through the Shishu Samridhi Yojana, a scheme aimed at securing the future of newborns while instilling environmental and civic responsibility.

He further praised grassroots efforts under the "Mero Rukh Mero Bato" campaign, citing the example of diligent workers in Soreng district who were awarded ₹50,000 each for roadside tree plantations—an embodiment of collective environmental responsibility and citizen participation.

Reinforcing the government’s focus on inclusive development, the Chief Minister proudly emphasized the representation of the Lepcha community not only in the State Legislative Assembly but also in leadership positions across departments and government institutions. He reiterated that this inclusive approach extends to all communities, upholding the spirit of unity in diversity. “This spirit of harmony and representation is central to the vision of a prosperous and equitable Sikkim for all,” he affirmed.

Mr. Tamang also unveiled a range of new initiatives focused on safeguarding and promoting Sikkim’s cultural heritage. These included the allocation of funds for the construction of Lepcha Bhawan, as well as the progression of plans to build Bhutia Bhawan. Additionally, he confirmed that the "Stairway to Heaven" project in Daramdin will be completed, with hopes of hosting next year’s Tendong Lho Rum Faat celebration at the location.

Significant cultural infrastructure is also in development, including the statue of Lepcha King Thekung Munsolong and a tribal tourist and research centre at Lingthem, both nearing completion. These sites are expected to become major cultural and tourist landmarks in the region.

On the educational front, Mr. Tamang reaffirmed the government’s dedication to empowering tribal youth. He highlighted the Chief Minister’s Merit Scholarship Scheme for Lepcha students from Dzongu and the APATAN Fellowship Scheme, which offers financial assistance to meritorious Ph.D. scholars from tribal communities. He cited the example of a Lepcha student from Kurseong, who received a scholarship under the Nar Bahadur Bhandari Fellowship Scheme to study at the University of Cambridge, UK. As per recent records, 489 Lepcha students are currently benefitting from the Chief Minister’s Educational Assistance Scheme.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister informed that the state government has submitted a proposal to the Central Government to include Bhutia, Lepcha, and Limbu languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. To strengthen academic representation, he instructed the Education Minister to prioritise the appointment of Lepcha Assistant Professors at Mangsila and Burtuk Colleges from the upcoming academic session. He urged the Lepcha Association to recommend qualified NET-cleared candidates for these positions.

In support of community development, Mr. Tamang announced a grant of ₹5 lakh to each ethnic association to cover operational expenses. Additionally, he directed the Department of Culture to prepare a proposal for constructing a rest house at Tendong Dara, which would serve as a sacred cultural space for religious ceremonies and prayer during Tendong Lho Rum Faat.

Emphasising cultural pride, the Chief Minister pointed out that all government offices are observing a "Traditional Wear Day" once a week, reinforcing respect for indigenous traditions. He urged everyone to take pride in their cultural identity and to actively participate in preserving and promoting traditional practices for future generations.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Tamang congratulated the organising committee and the Lepcha community for the successful conduct of the festival, which began on August 3, 2025. He commended their unwavering dedication to preserving and advancing their rich cultural heritage and assured continued support from the government in these endeavours.