Chief Minister Attends 31st Foundation Day Celebration of ASKCBKS in Rangpo

IPR, Feb 27, 2026, Pakyong: Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang graced the 31st Foundation Day Celebration of Akhil Sikkim Khas Chettri Bahun Kalyan Sangh (ASKCBKS), at Rangpo on Thursday in the presence of MP Lok Sabha Darjeeling, Mr Raju Bista.

The celebration also had the presence of Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Sikkim Legislative Assembly; Cabinet Ministers; MLAs; Chairpersons; Advisors; Mayor and Deputy Mayor, Gangtok Municipal Corporation; Zilla Panchayats; Heads of Departments; dignitaries from various line departments; representatives from various organisations; police personnel and general public.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang congratulated the attendees and expressed pride at witnessing the Khas community rise to greater heights. He then highlighted that the motive behind celebrating the event in different districts each year is to promote unity among the Khas community and the people at large.

Stressing that the Khas community is one of the largest communities in the state, he emphasised the need to further strengthen the community and contribute collectively towards the upliftment of the state.

The Chief Minister stated that the state government has entrusted members of the community with various dignified positions, reflecting their contribution across diverse fields, further remembering prominent personalities who have played a significant role in uplifting the community.

He further underscored key initiatives undertaken by the state government to support education and literacy and to empower the younger generation, including the N B Bhandari Fellowship Programme and the APATAN Fellowship Programme. He called for collective coordination within the Khas community for the progress of Sikkim and stressed the need to preserve the state’s culture and traditions, with awareness among the younger generation.

Further, he briefed on the initiatives undertaken and progress made towards securing Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the 12 left-out communities of Sikkim and outlined various initiatives of the Government aimed at preserving the language, culture, and traditions of the community, and highlighted programmes implemented for the welfare of the Khas community.

In his concluding remarks, the Chief Minister announced that the newly constructed Sikkim Medical College will be named Savitri Devi Medical College, as a testament to honour her contribution in the field of social service, further assuring that the state government stands as a guardian of harmony, committed to protecting the bonds that bind the diverse communities of Sikkim.

Earlier, the Chief Minister toured the venue and visited the traditional Khas Bhawan, where he observed displays depicting Masta Sthan, Jhakri Jhaki, Sansari Puja, Devta Than, and Guru Puja.

Further, Mr Raju Bista congratulated the attendees on the occasion of the 31st Foundation Day celebration of the Akhil Sikkim Khas Chettri Bahun Kalyan Sangh (ASKCBKS). He then commended the Chief Minister for his efforts toward the holistic development and welfare of the people of the state.

Highlighting the deep-rooted cultural and traditional similarities shared between the neighbouring regions, he emphasised the need for unity and collective efforts to ensure inclusive development. He further urged the people to work in unity for the progress of both states and the upliftment of their communities.

In addition, he stated that the Khas community has established its identity globally for its rich cultural legacy and heritage, further stating that both states are actively working toward safeguarding the identity of left-out and marginalised communities. He also stressed the importance of creating awareness among the younger generation on the cultural values and traditions of the Khas community.

Likewise, Mr Raju Bista was felicitated by the organising committee, honouring his contribution in various fields.

Additionally, MLA-cum-Minister for Rural Development Department (RDD) and Cooperation Department, Mr Arun Kumar Upreti, congratulated the organisers for their continued efforts and acknowledged the contribution of members in organising and sustaining the observance of the Foundation Day celebration. He stated that the occasion marks a historic day of unity, bringing together various sections of the community on a common platform.

He then emphasised the importance of preserving the culture, traditions and language of the community and underscored the need to pass these on to the younger generation.

Highlighting the strength of collective unity, he stated that with unity, Sikkim would remain strong and resilient, and reiterated the vision of a Sunaulo, Samriddha and Samartha Sikkim. He further affirmed that efforts to secure Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the 12 left-out communities of Sikkim are progressing in a positive direction.

Prior to it, President of the organising committee and Chairman RDD, Mr Narayan Khatiwara, acknowledged the declaration of February 26 as Khas Diwas and its recognition as a government holiday. He also referred to various measures undertaken by the State Government for the welfare and development of the Khas community. He highlighted the historical significance of January 26, stating that Khas Diwas was registered on the same date.

He stated that the observance of the day serves as a common platform for the Khas community to come together and preserve its cultural identity, and noted that the large participation of members contributed to the successful conduct of the programme.

Providing a brief overview of the history of the Khas community, Dr Tek Bahadur Chettri highlighted the origin and evolution of the community and its presence in the state, while highlighting the historical roots of the Khas community. He then stressed the cultural heritage, tradition and festivals of the community, further emphasising the need to preserve the cultural values for future generations.

One of the key highlights of the day was the presentation of Sikkim Gaurav Sammaan 2026 to Padma Shri Ms Keepu Tshering Lepcha, Founder, Human Development Foundation Sikkim, in recognition of her contribution to human development and social service in Sikkim.

Following that, a series of felicitation ceremony for the Khas Gaurav Sammaan was also carried out to honour their contribution for community service in various fields.

Adding to the celebration, a series of cultural performances, including Khas Nritya, Talwar Nritya, Maruni Nritya and Khaijadi Nritya, were presented, showcasing the culture and heritage of the Khas community.

Following the cultural presentations, the programme included the unveiling of the Khas poster, release of the Khas calendar, and the book and song launch ceremony.