Gangtok, March 12: The Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), interacted with a visiting media delegation from Meghalaya during a dinner hosted at his official residence in Gangtok yesterday.
During the informal interaction, Shri Golay spoke in detail about the developmental priorities of Sikkim, various governance initiatives and the efforts being undertaken by the state government to promote sustainable development, environmental conservation and social welfare. He also listened with interest as members of the delegation shared insights about developments in Meghalaya, including the media landscape, socio-economic progress and tourism potential.
Shri Golay highlighted several key initiatives of the state government, including Mero Rukh Mero Santati, a novel green initiative of the Government of Sikkim aimed at strengthening the bond between parents, children and nature. Under the programme, 108 trees are planted for every newborn child in the state.
The initiative symbolically links the birth of a child with environmental conservation and encourages families to nurture and protect the trees as the child grows. The concept reflects the idea of celebrating the arrival of a child while simultaneously contributing to environmental sustainability and strengthening the state’s commitment to a greener future.
He also spoke about the need to encourage childbirth in the state, noting that the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in Sikkim has been witnessing a decline. In this context, the state government has introduced various incentives and supportive measures aimed at encouraging families and ensuring the well-being of mothers and children.
During the interaction, Shri Golay reiterated the state government’s zero tolerance policy against drug abuse, emphasising that strict measures are being taken to curb drug trafficking and substance abuse, particularly among the youth. He stressed that states across the Northeast must work collectively to eliminate the menace of drugs from the region.
Shri Golay also spoke about the growing inflow of tourists to Sikkim, noting that tourism has emerged as one of the key pillars of the state’s economy. He said the government is making continuous efforts to ensure that visitors have a safe, comfortable and memorable experience while exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the state.
Highlighting the importance of improved connectivity, Shri Golay spoke about the ongoing Sivok–Rangpo railway project, which will connect Sikkim to the national railway network for the first time. He expressed hope that the project will be completed by 2027, which will significantly ease communication and accessibility to the Himalayan state.
During the interaction, Shri Golay also highlighted the welfare measures extended to journalists in Sikkim, including pension schemes and other social security benefits, and enquired about similar provisions available for journalists in Meghalaya. He emphasised the important role played by the media in strengthening democracy and connecting the government with the people.
Members of the visiting media delegation expressed their appreciation for the overall development and governance model of Sikkim, noting the state’s emphasis on organic agriculture, effective traffic management, cleanliness, peaceful environment and good governance. They also appreciated the warm hospitality and welcoming nature of the people of Sikkim.
The delegation comprises journalists representing print, electronic and digital media organisations from Meghalaya and is visiting several important institutions and locations across Sikkim as part of the exposure tour organised by the Press Information Bureau Shillong in coordination with Press Information Bureau Gangtok.
The delegation is led by Gopajit Das, Assistant Director, Press Information Bureau Shillong, with Manas Pratim Sarma, Assistant Director, Press Information Bureau Gangtok, facilitating the programme in the state.
