Gyalshing, May 21 (IPR): Block Administrative Centre (BAC) Chongrang, Gyalshing district, organized a series of programmes on May 20 as part of the ongoing celebrations marking 50 years of Sikkim’s statehood. The day-long event, held at the auditorium hall of Chongrang BAC, was jointly organised by the Block Administrative Centre, Chongrang, and the Block Development Society–Sikkim Rural Livelihood Mission (BDS–SRLM). The day was observed with various events and activities as part of the ongoing celebrations marking 50 years of Sikkim’s Statehood. Mr Tshering T Bhutia, Minister for Tourism & Civil Aviation and Commerce & Industries, also the area MLA (Yuksam–Tashiding), graced the occasion as the Chief guest. Upon arrival, the Chief guest was warmly welcomed by BDO Ms Geeta Kumari Gurung, BAC staff, gram panchayat members, and SHG representatives. The Minister planted a sapling of the state tree Rhododendron at the BAC premises before proceeding to the main event. Other dignitaries present included Mr Sangay Lepcha former Deputy Speaker (SLA), Mr Surat Gurung ADC (Development) Gyalshing, Mr Chandan Singh Limboo SDM Yuksam, Mr RS Bhutia former Advisor (Ecclesiastical Affairs), Ms Geeta Kumari Gurung BDO Chongrang, Mr Samberman Limboo BDO Yuksam, Zilla Panchayat members Mr Birendra Gurung and Mr Yadhu Nath Chettri, Mr BS Subba Panchayat Inspector, along with gram panchayat representatives, SHG members, school heads, students, and the general public. BDO Ms Geeta Kumari Gurung spoke about the objectives of the programme and the significance of Sikkim's 50th year of statehood. “The year 2025 is important for Sikkim as we commemorate 50 years of statehood. The state government is celebrating this milestone with a series of programmes. Our BAC has also organised this event to honour the progress and achievements made so far,” she stated. The celebration featured a variety of events, including song and dance competitions, a quiz competition among rural women participants from different SHGs under Chongrang BAC, and a skit performed by the Gyalshing (T) Division of the State Forest & Environment Department on the ‘Mero Rukh Mero Santati’ initiative. A traditional fashion show and other cultural performances added vibrant colour to the event. Earlier in the day, sporting events such as a marathon, 100-meter sprint, and tug of war were held, with enthusiastic participation from rural women across the Chongrang block. In his address, Minister Tshering T Bhutia conveyed warm greetings from the state government and lauded Chongrang BAC for organising a meaningful and inclusive celebration. He emphasized that the Yuksam–Tashiding constituency is a development priority and urged government officials to adopt a public-friendly work culture, especially considering the geographical challenges of the region. The Minister also outlined key developmental projects initiated by the chief minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang-Golay-led state government, including the sanctioned Tara Devi statue and beautification of Silnon Monastery, the upcoming SDM office, and enhancement of the Khangchendzonga Waterfall near Yuksam. He provided updates on additional departmental projects aimed at holistic regional development. He shared insights into multiple upcoming departmental projects currently in the pipeline for the holistic development of the state. The programme concluded with the distribution of prizes across various categories and certificates of participation to all individuals involved in the series of events and cultural activities.