PAKYONG: The Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, attended the inaugural Aama Samman Diwas at Rangpo Ground on Sunday, an occasion dedicated to honouring and recognising the invaluable contributions of mothers to families, communities, and the State. He was accompanied by his mother Dhan Maya Tamang, and spouse Krishna Kumari Rai.
Following the Chief Minister’s vision and directive, August 10 has been officially declared as Aama Samman Diwas and will be observed annually from this year onwards to acknowledge the social, cultural, and economic roles mothers play in society. The celebration was organised by the Women, Child, Senior Citizens, and Divyangjan Welfare Department, Government of Sikkim.
The celebration also had the presence of Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Sikkim Legislative Assembly; Cabinet Ministers; MLAs; Mayor; Zilla Adhyakshas; Deputy Mayor; and Upadhyakshas; Chief Secretary; Chairpersons; Advisors, and Heads of departments.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay emphasised that the celebration is a tribute to honour the countless efforts of mothers in the cultivation of a nurturing environment.
Reflecting on his experiences and the challenges he faced, the Chief Minister highlighted the crucial role of his mother in his upbringing and expressed his appreciation for the sacrifices made by mothers around, further addressing them as the unsung heroes of our society.
To honour their invaluable contributions, he announced that the state government has designated August 10 as “Aama Samman Diwas”, a day to celebrate and acknowledge mothers for their lifelong dedication in promoting overall well-being.
The Chief Minister underscored the various initiatives launched by the state government to uplift and empower women, including Aama Yojana, Bahini Yojana, Ama Sahayog Yojana, Widow Pension Reform, Vastalya Yojana, and Sabbatical Leave. Additionally, he also highlighted the Mero Rukh Mero Santati initiative, which intertwines the bond between motherhood and the environment.
He provided information on maternity leave benefits and educational facilities, further apprising about the installation of breastfeeding pods in every district to ensure that mothers have access to convenient spaces to support their needs.
Furthermore, he assured the people of his commitment to empower mothers by providing necessary support that would help them become self-sufficient and independent and thrive in their respective lives.
As part of the Aama Samman Yojna, 32,000 mothers will receive financial support of Rs 40,000 each under the Sikkim Aama Sasaktikaran Yojana. The assistance will be provided in two instalments: Rs 20,000 in the first phase and Rs 20,000 in the second.
It is to be mentioned that a total of 320 cheques were distributed to ten beneficiaries from each constituency, and the remaining beneficiaries would receive their cheques at their respective Block Administrative Centres.
The Chief Minister also launched the Nari Adalat under the Women, Child, Senior Citizens and Divyangjan Department. This community-based forum, led by women, aims to deliver accessible and informal justice, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Nari Adalat provides a supportive, non-intimidating setting to resolve local disputes, focusing on issues such as minor family disagreements, non-severe domestic violence cases, marital conflicts, property disputes within families, child custody and maintenance matters, harassment, dowry-related problems, and other concerns related to women’s rights.
During the event, Chairman PHE Department, Chumila Bhutia, underscored the invaluable contributions of mothers and emphasised their vital role in strengthening the community.
Congratulating the attendees on the occasion of Amma Samman Diwas, Secretary of WCSC&DWD, Normit Lepcha, acknowledged the invaluable contributions mothers make to their families and society. She then highlighted the Chief Minister’s initiative to honour mothers’ efforts through various initiatives such as Sikkim Aama Sasaktikaran Yojana and Sikkim Aama Sahayog Yojana, aimed at empowering and fostering them towards self-reliance in the community.
Acknowledging the mothers from various sectors for their contribution to society, the Chief Minister’s Office felicitated and recognised 210 Aamas during the event.
Over 4,200 mothers would be provided support for four-cylinder refills each year under the Aama Shayog Yojana, RDD Department. The initiative would lessen the financial strain of fuel expenses and empower the mothers to enhance the quality of living and help them in their overall holistic development.
Awards were also presented to the best-performing mothers under the Sikkim Aama Sashaktikaran Yojana:
- 1st Position: Ms Sukhmaya Rai
- 2nd Position: Ms Kalpana Rai
- 3rd Position: Ms Tej Kumari Gurung
The event also featured a short film on mothers titled “Khabsey” by Indrakeel Post.
In addition, the Aama Suvidha Ghar was set up by the Chief Minister’s Office in collaboration with the Women, Child, Senior Citizens & Divyangjan Welfare Department (WCSC&DWD). This facility offers women-focused amenities such as breastfeeding rooms, crèches, and healthcare corners, aiming to ensure comfort, hygiene, and safety for mothers attending the event.
- IPR Report
