GANGTOK: Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang graced the Tendong Lho Rum Faat Celebration 2025 as the chief guest accompanied by his spouse Krishna Rai.
Addressing the occasion, Prem Singh Tamang expressed his gratitude to the (Prince) Miwang Denjong Gyelsay Rinpoche Palden Gyurmed Namgyal for his presence in the Tendong Lho Rum Faat celebrations. He said the day holds its roots in the rich history of our State’s commitment to preserving the environment, a legacy that continues to thrive through progressive policies and community-driven initiatives. He accentuated Sikkim’s leadership in environmental stewardship through both central and state-level legislation aimed at conservation.
He highlighted the success of landmark programmes such as Mero Rukh Mero Santati, which has garnered global recognition for linking environmental action with the birth of every child while simultaneously securing their child’s future through the Sikkim Shishu Samridhi Yojana, a financial investment aimed at encouraging both responsibility and resilience from an early age.
Moreover, the Chief Minister applauded the efforts of communities in districts like Soreng, where under the Mero Ruk Mero Bato initiative, active participants were awarded Rs 50,000 each for their dedication to lining roadsides with trees and sustaining the green cover, embodying the spirit of collective environmental responsibility.
The Chief Minister also emphasised the inclusive and representative nature of the State Government, highlighting that numerous Lepcha representatives are serving not only in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly but also as Heads of Departments and in various government offices.
He further noted that this inclusivity extends to all communities across the state, illustrating how Sikkim stands as a model of unity in diversity. By ensuring equal representation and active participation of all communities in governance, the state demonstrates how coordinated efforts across diverse groups lay the foundation for collective progress and holistic development, he stated.
“This spirit of harmony and representation,” he added, “is central to the vision of a prosperous and equitable Sikkim for all.”
The Chief Minister today specified a series of initiatives aimed at promoting inclusive development and safeguarding the rich cultural heritage of the state. He stated that the government has allocated funds for the construction of the Lepcha Bhawan and added that plans are also underway for the construction of the Bhutia Bhawan.
Additionally, he confirmed that the government will take up and complete the unfinished “Stairway to Heaven” project in Daramdin, expressing hope that the next Tendong Lho Rum Faat celebration can be held at the site.
The Chief Minister also pointed out that the Lepcha King Thekung Munsolong statue (Lepcha primitive tribal tourist centre cum research centre at Lingthem) is nearing completion expected to be a significant cultural and touristic landmark.
In support of educational empowerment, the Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to the Chief Minister’s Merit Scholarship Scheme for Lepcha students from Dzongu and the APATAN Fellowship Scheme which provides financial assistance to select local scholars (SSC and Col holders) with exceptional academic records, for pursuing Ph. D. He quoted an example of Kursongkit Lepcha who received a scholarship under Nar Bahadur Bhandari Fellowship Scheme (NBBFS) to study at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.
He stated that these initiatives aim to facilitate better educational opportunities for students from tribal communities. He also stated that around 489 Lepcha students are availing the educational benefit under the Chief Minister Education Assistance Scheme. He also informed that the State Government has submitted a proposal to the Government of India, seeking the inclusion of Bhutia, Lepcha, and Limboo languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
He also directed the Minister-in-Charge Education Department to prioritise the appointment of Lepcha Assistant Professors at Manshila College and Burtuk College from the upcoming academic session. In this regard, he requested the Lepcha Association to recommend suitably qualified NEET-cleared candidates for consideration.
To further support community development, the Chief Minister announced an office grant of Rs 5 lakhs each for all community associations. He also directed the Department of Culture to develop a proposal for constructing a rest house at Tendong Dara, envisioned as a cultural space for the community during prayers and rituals associated with Tendong Lho Rum Faat.
As a symbol of respect for the state’s traditions, the Chief Minister mentioned that the government offices are observing “Traditional Wear Day” once a week. He encouraged everyone to take pride in their heritage, follow traditional practices, and contribute to nurturing a cultural legacy for future generations.
In his concluding remarks, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang congratulated the Organising Committee for the successful conduct of the event that commenced on August 3, 2025. He lauded the unwavering efforts of the Lepcha community in preserving and promoting their rich cultural heritage.
- IPR Report
