Rangpo all set for Sikkim’s first Aama Samman Diwas on Aug 10

KUNAL RAI

GANGTOK, : The Rangpo ground is all set to host the State's first-ever ‘Aama Samman Diwas’ on August 10, an event dedicated to honouring the mothers of Sikkim. The occasion also coincides with the 8th Jan Unmukti Diwas, a significant day for the ruling SKM party.

Speaking to the media, Rural Development minister Arun Upreti shared that August 10 was previously celebrated as Jan Unmukti Diwas. However, this year, under the vision of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) and the State government’s commitment to women’s welfare, the day has been officially designated as ‘Aama Samman Diwas’, he mentioned.

As part of the celebration, more than 32,000 mothers will be felicitated under the Sikkim Aama Sasaktikaran Yojana, receiving the first installment of financial assistance. Each eligible beneficiary will receive Rs 40,000 in two installments, with the first disbursed during the event.

In addition, around 4,200 mothers will benefit from the Sikkim Aama Sahayog Yojana, which provides financial assistance for four LPG cylinder refills annually, under the Rural Development department, informed Upreti.

A total of 210 grassroots-level mothers from across Sikkim have also been specially selected for state-level recognition. These include Safai Mitras from the Health department and Municipal bodies, ASHA and Anganwadi workers, Self-Help Group members, Panchayat representatives, PWD workers, and Mid-Day Meal cooks. Their selection was initiated by the Chief Minister’s Office.

The minister emphasized that these honours go beyond symbolic recognition - they are a sincere gesture of appreciation for the relentless dedication of mothers across various sectors, who have contributed significantly to Sikkim’s holistic development.

A notable feature of this year’s celebration is that the 210 honoured mothers will share the main stage with the Chief Minister, a role traditionally reserved for ministers, MLAs, and senior government officials.

To ensure the comfort of attendees, the government has developed an ‘Aama Suvidha Ghar’ at the venue, equipped with all necessary facilities for mothers. Additionally, all public toilets at the site will be open and free to use, with extra sanitation facilities being set up to manage the expected large turnout.

Minister Upreti appealed to all mothers and members of the public to attend the historic celebration and be part of this momentous occasion.

Speaking on the significance of the event, Namchi District Zilla Adhakshya Anjita Rajalim stated that transforming Jan Unmukti Diwas into Aama Samman Diwas reflects the government's deep respect for mothers. She highlighted that the Sikkim Aama Sasaktikaran Yojana, offering direct financial support, is a unique initiative, possibly the first of its kind globally, aimed at empowering mothers as pillars of the family.

Rajalim addressed criticisms suggesting the event is a mere display of political strength, clarifying that the celebration is a genuine acknowledgment of the role and sacrifice of mothers in society, not a political show.

Preparations for the grand celebration are in their final stages and are being actively overseen by cabinet ministers, MLAs, advisors, chairpersons, Zilla Adhakshyas, and other senior officials.