New Delhi, January 28: The State-level celebration of the 77th Republic Day of India was held with great solemnity and patriotic fervour at Paljor Stadium, Gangtok, with the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang, joining the Governor, Shri Om Prakash Mathur, on the historic occasion.
The programme commenced with the arrival of the Governor, who was received by the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary Shri R. Telang, and Director General of Police Shri Akshay Sachdeva. Cabinet Ministers, Heads of Departments, senior officers of the State Government, and members of the public were present in large numbers.
Earlier, the Governor unfurled the National Flag, followed by the National Anthem. After receiving the National Salute, he reviewed the Republic Day parade. The march past was led by Parade Commander Assistant Superintendent of Police Shri Suraj D (IPS) and Parade 2IC Police Inspector Shri Sonam Dorjee Lachenpa. Impressive contingents from the ITBP, SSB, Guest Platoon from Arunachal Pradesh (4th IRBn), Sikkim Armed Police, Indian Reserve Battalions, Sikkim Police (men and women), Forest and Environment Department, Home Guards and Civil Defence, NCC, and the Sikkim Police Pipe and Brass Bands participated in the parade.
Referring to the significance of the occasion, the Chief Minister said that Republic Day is a moment to reaffirm faith in the Constitution and honour the sacrifices of freedom fighters and brave personnel who have safeguarded the nation’s unity and sovereignty. He congratulated all award and medal recipients, stating that their dedication, discipline and service reflect the finest traditions of public service and inspire future generations.
A key highlight of the programme was the presentation of medals and honours. The President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service was awarded to Shri Ashwani Kumar Chand, Additional Director General of Police, Sikkim. The Police Medal for Meritorious Service was conferred upon Shri Tshering Sherpa, Superintendent of Police, Sikkim, while the Fire Service Medal for Meritorious Service was awarded to Shri Dawa Tamang, Assistant Sub Fire Officer, Sikkim.
The Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak was awarded posthumously to Dr Pema Tenzing Lachungpa and Shri Dawa Tshering Lepcha. The Sikkim State Meritorious Service Awards were conferred upon eleven officers and staff from various departments in recognition of their outstanding contributions. Letters of Appreciation were also presented to 1971 war veteran Retired Naib Subedar Shri Kharka Bahadur Rai, as well as to institutions including the 27 Mountain Division of the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Sikkim.
March Past trophies were awarded, with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police adjudged the all-round best platoon, while the Guest Platoon from Arunachal Pradesh (4th IRBn) was specially felicitated.
On the occasion, the State received national recognition with the conferment of the President of India’s Police Colour on the Sikkim Police, approved by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, in recognition of the force’s exemplary service, discipline and dedication. The official communiqué from the Ministry of Home Affairs was handed over to the Director General of Police, Sikkim
Releases and launches were also held during the programme, including Mero Alaichi, Mero Dhan, Mero School, Mero Abhiyan, the release of a locally inspired flavoured dark chocolate, and the Unnayan Survey 2022 Report.
Thereafter, the Governor and the Chief Minister visited the Army equipment display. A band display by the Sikkim Police Pipe Band and the Army, along with colourful cultural performances by the Culture Department and guest performances by Army units, added vibrancy and reflected India’s unity in diversity.
The programme concluded with the National Anthem, marking a proud and solemn observance of Republic Day as Sikkim also commemorates 50 years of Statehood, reaffirming its commitment towards building a Sunaulo, Samriddha ani Samarth Sikkim.