GANGTOK, : A group of 20 inducted IAS officers from various States of India,
currently undergoing training at LBSSNA Mussoorie, called on Governor of
Sikkim, Om Prakash Mathur, at Raj Bhavan here today.
As
part of their Bharat Darshan program, they are in Sikkim and have visited
various places, a Raj Bhavan release informs.
During
the meeting, the IAS officers shared their observations and experiences after
visiting different locations. They stated that the State is a model example,
known for its cleanliness, being plastic-free, and featuring well-maintained
roads, which set it apart from other hill stations. They also emphasized the State’s
advanced drainage systems.
Additionally,
the officers mentioned the breathtaking landscapes and the harmonious
relationship they witnessed between army personnel and civilians in the border
areas.
In
his brief address, the Governor highlighted several key aspects related to Sikkim’s
strategic importance and socio-cultural development. He emphasized the
significance of Sikkim’s international borders, particularly in the context of
Nathu La, which shares the border with China. He stated that Nathu La Day,
observed on 11 September, will now be celebrated as Nathu La Vijay Diwas. This
day marks the crucial role played by Major General Sagat Singh from Rajasthan
in defending the Nathu La and Cho La passes against Chinese incursions, leading
to a decisive Indian victory that restored national pride following the 1962
defeat.
The
Governor also referred to the 2017 China-India border standoff (Doklam standoff),
reiterating the strength and resilience of the Indian Army in safeguarding the
nation’s borders.
Furthermore,
the Governor mentioned the collaborative efforts of Raj Bhavan and the Indian
Army in sending students from remote villages of Sikkim on educational and
cultural exchange tours across the country. These initiatives offer students a
holistic learning experience, with the most recent being the Buddha Circuit
Tour, which was flagged off from Raj Bhavan in the presence of the General
Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 17 Mountain Division.
Additionally,
the Governor lauded the State’s achievements in organic farming, the unique angora
rabbit fur, which is used to make and sell mufflers and caps, and the State's
reputation for smooth traffic management and zero violence. He further
commended the role of women in driving key sectors of the state, highlighting
Sikkim as a model of women’s empowerment.
He
also wished them a pleasant stay in Sikkim and extended his best wishes to the
officers for all their future endeavours, the Raj Bhavan release informs.
