PAKYONG,(IPR): Arun Upreti, minister of Cooperation department and Rural Development department, graced Balidan Diwas 2024, organised by Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh, Sikkim branch, at the auditorium hall of Sunrise Academy, Duga today.
Arun Upreti, while addressing the gathering, emphasised the profound significance of Balidan Diwas, a day dedicated to honouring the sacrifices of the Gorkha community in the struggle for India’s independence. He paid tribute to the freedom fighters and highlighted the importance of remembering their contributions to the nation.
During the event, a display of gratitude was also held to recognise and felicitate the highest blood donor in Sikkim, along with ground-level government workers and individuals who played crucial roles during the Sikkim flash flood that occurred on October 4, 2023.
The event also featured cultural performances by the talented students of Sunrise Academy, Duga, and local artists, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Gorkha community while adding a vibrant touch to the solemn occasion and reflecting the spirit of unity and patriotism.
The ceremony was also attended by Laxmi Sharma, panchayat president; Goma Dhakal, panchayat member; DK Bhujel, panchayat member; Draupadi Ghimirey, Padmashree awardee; CP Giri, retired Director General of Police; Rudra Poudyal, educationist; DR Nepal, retired secretary; Chuni Lal Ghimirey, SR Subba, president of Sikkim Akademi; Kuber Dahal, translator of the Constitution; GL Sharma, retired commander and director of SMIT; DB Chettri, principal Sunrise Academy Duga, along with retired army personnel and members from Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh.