GANGTOK: The Sikkim Olympic Association (SOA) commemorated International Olympic Day 2025 with great enthusiasm and participation, reinforcing the Olympic ideals of unity, inclusivity, and athletic spirit. The occasion was marked by a series of sporting activities and a formal programme held at the SOA Office, Paljor Stadium, Gangtok, with the theme “Move, Learn, Discover for a Better World.”
The event was graced by Roads and Bridges Minister NB Dahal as the chief guest, and Chief Minister’s Political Secretary Jacob Khaling as the guest of honour. The programme also witnessed the presence of the executive members of SOA, officials from various affiliated sports associations, and several distinguished sportspersons of the State.
The celebrations began with multiple sporting events organised by the member associations, embodying the spirit of the theme and encouraging mass participation. A blood donation camp was also organised by the SOA, showcasing the association’s commitment to social responsibility alongside athletic development.
Messages from the Governor of Sikkim, the Chief Minister, and the Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs were read out to the gathering, conveying their best wishes and underlining the importance of sports in building a resilient and progressive society.
In a special felicitation ceremony, outstanding athletes who had represented Sikkim at national-level tournaments were honoured for their achievements and contribution to sports.
Addressing the gathering, Minister NB Dahal, expressed delight at being part of the celebrations and commended SOA for marking Olympic Day with enthusiasm and purpose. Emphasising the vital link between sports and youth development, he reiterated the Government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure across the State.
In a noteworthy suggestion, Dahal urged all member associations to conduct quarterly meetings with the 32 MLAs, allowing legislators to stay informed about sporting activities in their constituencies and extend meaningful support to emerging athletes.
Touching on India’s aspirations to host the 2036 Olympic Games, the Minister spoke of ongoing efforts to upgrade sports facilities in Sikkim and expressed hope that the State could play host to select Olympic events in the future. He also announced that the much-anticipated Jas Lal Pradhan Boxing Academy in Khamdong would be inaugurated within the next 18 months.
Stressing the importance of coordination and cooperation among all stakeholders, Dahal called for a unified approach to elevate the sporting ecosystem in the State. He further assured improved connectivity and logistical support, ensuring that athletes from every corner of Sikkim have the opportunity to compete at the highest levels.
In his address, President of SOA president Kuber Bhandari, elaborated on the significance of this year’s theme, noting that the Olympic movement promotes not only sporting excellence but also peace, inclusivity, and the development of a better world. He highlighted the need for grassroots sports development at the Panchayat level and expressed hope that Sikkim would see more Olympians emerge in the future. He proudly recalled Sikkim’s two Olympians — Jas Lal Pradhan and Tarundeep Rai — as inspirations for the State’s aspiring athletes.
Bhandari also appreciated recent developments in the local sporting ecosystem, commending the Sikkim Amateur Swimming Association for successfully hosting a swimming competition yesterday and lauding the Sikkim Athletics Association for introducing race walking, an official Olympic discipline, in the State.
- IPR Report
