SILIGURI,: Sikkim Chief Minister PS Golay was on Sunday conferred with the ‘Gorkha Gaurav Samman 2024’ by Siliguri-published Nepali daily Himalaya Darpan during its 23rd foundation day celebration here. He dedicated the award to the people of Sikkim.
“I am honored to receive the Gorkha Gaurav Samman from Himalaya Darpan on their 23rd foundation day celebration. I dedicate this award to my esteemed people of Sikkim, whose constant dedication and hard work have made it possible for me to serve as the only Gorkha Chief Minister in the nation,” said the Chief Minister after receiving the award.
During the function, Chief Minister also launched the Sikkim edition of Himalaya Darpan in presence of Shri Shri 108 Mohan Priyacharya, Pranami Dharma Guru, Darjeeling MP Raju Bista, Darjeeling MLA Niraj Zimba, Sandeep Choudhary, publisher & proprietor Himalaya Darpan, dignitaries and distinguished guests.
In his address, the Chief Minister highlighted his government’s health initiatives benefiting both Sikkim and Darjeeling, including reduced costs of medical expenses for the patients. He also congratulated the Himalaya Darpan family for their 23 years of service to the society through journalism.
The Chief Minister paid homage to late Nar Bahadur Bhandari, former Chief Minister of Sikkim, for his dedication to the Nepali language, leading to its recognition in the Indian Constitution.
He also noted significant progress, stating, "In 2003, the Indian government granted ST status to the Limboo and Tamang communities in Sikkim and West Bengal. We must continue our efforts to secure similar recognition for the other left out communities,” he added.
Similarly, Bista also highlighted the importance of the strong relationship between Sikkim and Darjeeling. He praised Golay for his good governance and congratulated him for being elected as the Chief Minister of Sikkim for the second straight term.
(With IPR inputs)