Gangtok, Sep 25 (PTI) Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Friday said the Indrajatra festival represents nature, agriculture, remembrance, community and harmony, while highlighting the contribution of the Newar community to Sikkim’s development.
Addressing the state-level Indrajatra Celebration 2026 organised by the Sikkim Newar Guthi (SNG) here, Tamang said the community had contributed significantly to the state’s administration, agriculture, trade, mining, culture, arts, sports and social service.
He recalled the contributions of early Newar pioneers, including Laxmidas Pradhan and Chandrabir Pradhan, to administration, agriculture, trade, copper mining and coin production during the early period of Sikkim’s history.
“Indrajatra is not merely a festival but a celebration of nature, agriculture, remembrance, community and harmony,” the chief minister said, stressing that it carries a message of mutual respect and goodwill.
Tamang said the achievements of prominent members of the Newar community in administration, mountaineering, sports, arts and music had helped bring recognition to Sikkim.
He said the state government was committed to the inclusive development of all communities and had taken steps to provide them greater space to strengthen their institutions and promote their cultural and social interests.
Referring to the Chief Minister’s Education Assistance Scheme, Tamang said students from across Sikkim, including those from the Newar community, had benefited from assistance for higher education, medical education and other professional courses.
He stressed the need to ensure that government schemes and development initiatives reach those who need them and reiterated his government’s commitment to the welfare of people across the state.
During the programme, Tamang handed over the land parcha to the Sikkim Newar Guthi for the construction of their bhawan and unveiled the logo of the first Sikkim Travel and Tourism Fair 2026.
He also felicitated recipients of the Newar Ratna Samman 2026 and Bhanji Bhrikuti Samman.
The Newar Ratna Samman was conferred on Suryavir Tuladhar, Govind Prasad Pradhan and Ganesh Kumar Pradhan, while Suchitna Tamang received the Bhanji Bhrikuti Samman for her contribution and achievements.
The chief minister also released Smarika 2026, the annual publication documenting the community’s activities, achievements and cultural heritage. This year’s edition has been published both in print and digital formats.
The Ritual Book and Newar Indrajatra Song were also released on the occasion.
The fourth day of the state-level celebration showcased Newar traditions through Kumari Nritya, Bajrayogini Nritya, Newari folk dance, Dhimey Dance and Pancha Kumari Nritya, besides traditional rituals, musical performances and community offerings. PTI COR NN
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