GANGTOK, (IPR): The one-day second session of Eleventh Sikkim Legislative
Assembly (SLA) commenced at the Sikkim Legislative Assembly Secretariat today.
The
session presided over by the Speaker of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Mingma
Norbu Sherpa, began with the address of the Governor of the State, Om Prakash
Mathur.
The
Governor's address to the august gathering of the Second Session of the
Eleventh Sikkim Legislative Assembly highlighted the State’s achievements and
future challenges. He said that Sikkim has made remarkable progress in key
sectors such as healthcare, environmental conservation, and tourism. He stated
that the State has consistently maintained a lower Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)
and Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) than the national average, reflecting the
government's commitment to quality healthcare. Initiatives like ‘Meri Rukh Mero
Santati’ and ‘Shishu Samriddha Yojana’ are contributing to both environmental
sustainability and economic empowerment for future generations, he added.
He
further expressed that expanding healthcare facilities is another priority,
with a bottom-up approach ensuring accessibility through mobile clinic vans and
Primary Health Centres (PHCs), even in the most remote areas. Additionally, the
Chief Minister Relief Fund continues to provide crucial assistance to those
facing medical emergencies, he cited.
He
also mentioned that tourism remains a key driver of Sikkim’s economy, and the
government continues to focus on its development.
The
Governor emphasised that on the global stage, Sikkim’s policies are receiving
recognition, inspiring other States to adopt its models for environmental
conservation and universal healthcare in this context the government remains
dedicated to sustainable and inclusive development, aligning its efforts with
the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
While
celebrating these successes, the Governor also addressed emerging challenges,
particularly the declining birth rate and shifting demographics. He articulated
the need to maintain demographic balance while preserving Sikkim’s s rich
cultural heritage to sustain an inclusive and vibrant society.
In
conclusion, the Governor urged all stakeholders, government agencies, civil
society, and the people of Sikkim to work together in addressing these
challenges and ensuring the state's long-term prosperity.
Following
the Governor’s address, Speaker Mingma Norbu Sherpa administered the Oath of
Office/Affirmation to the newly elected Members of the Sikkim Legislative
Assembly through the bye-election - Aditya Golay from Soreng-Chakung constituency
and Satish Chandra Rai from Namchi-Singithang constituency.
The
Assembly also paid tribute to late Thutop Bhutia, a former Member of the Sikkim
Legislative Assembly.
An
obituary reference was presented on the floor by the Speaker, Chief Minister
Prem Singh Tamang-Golay , and Minister Tourism & Civil Aviation department,
Tshering Thendup Bhutia. In honour of the departed leader, the House observed
two minutes of silence as a mark of respect.
Thereafter,
the Chief Minister also the leader of the House moved the motion of thanks to
the Governor’s Address which was seconded by Arun Upreti, minister Rural
Development department and Cooperation department.
During
the session, Aditya Golay, MLA Soreng Chakung was appointed as the chairman of
the Committee on Estimates for the Financial Year 2024-25, with Satish Chandra
Rai, MLA from Namchi-Singithang, serving as a member.
Subsequently,
the Chief Minister also the minister In Charge of the Finance department laid
the following audit reports:
(i)
Separate Audit Report on the Accounts of Sikkim State Commission for Women,
Gangtok for the year ended 31st March 2022-2023,
ii)
Separate Audit Report on the Accounts of Sikkim State Commission for Protection
of Child Rights, Gangtok for the year ended 31st March 2022-2023.
The
Speaker announced the laying of annual reports of the Departments / Commissions:
(i)
Annual Report of Food and Civil Supplies department, Government of Sikkim for
the year 2023-2024
ii)
Annual Report of Sikkim State Food Commission for the year 2023-2024, and
iii)
Annual Report of Mines and Geology Department, Government of Sikkim for the
year 2023-2024.
The
Speaker further announced that the First Session of the Eleventh Assembly had
resumed.
The
Chief Minister delivered the valedictory speech, expressing his gratitude to
the Governor for his address. He congratulated the newly elected MLAs and
reaffirmed the government’s commitment to serving the people of Sikkim. He
emphasised that they would continue their dedicated efforts in their respective
constituencies.
Outlining
his vision for a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Sikkim, the Chief
Minister reiterated the government’s unwavering dedication to the welfare of
the state. He also extended his appreciation to the Speaker and Deputy Speaker
for ensuring smooth conduct of the session.
Similarly,
the Speaker, in his valedictory remarks, conveyed his gratitude to the Governor
and congratulated the newly elected MLAs on their appointments.
The second
session of the Eleventh Sikkim Legislative Assembly was adjourned Sine Die by
the Speaker.
