News & Announcement
Connect to CM Benefits Distribution Programme Held at BAC Passingdang
Mangan, March 18 (IPR): In a quiet yet powerful affirmation of humane governance, the Connect to CM Benefits Distribution Programme was conducted today at the Block Administrative Centre (BAC), Passingdang, bringing hope, dignity and direct support to those who needed it the most.
The programme began with the ceremonial offering of khadas to the distinguished guests by Block Development Officer Dr. Mahendra Tamang. This was followed by a welcome address by the BDO, who briefly highlighted the objectives of the programme and outlined the extensive planning, monitoring, and verification processes undertaken to ensure that only genuine beneficiaries receive support under the initiative. He also shared that the programme has been implemented under the banner of Connect to CM since October 2025, with continued efforts to extend its benefits to deserving individuals in future phases.
Gracing the occasion, Mr Sherap Chopel Katuk, Principal Director from the Chief Minister’s Office, personally handed over appointment orders and financial assistance to carefully verified beneficiaries. His presence symbolised a governance system where the distance between the people and the highest office is bridged through compassion and commitment.
Each beneficiary carried a story of struggle, resilience, and renewed hope.
Ms Tshering Ongmu Bhutia of Tingvong village received an employment order in recognition of her family having no member in government service. For her, this opportunity marks not only employment but a significant step towards stability and self-reliance.
Mr Sangay Thinlay Lepcha was provided assistance under the Chief Minister’s Self Employment Scheme, as his family had long depended solely on subsistence farming. The support is expected to strengthen his livelihood and encourage economic self-sufficiency.
Mr Tencho Lepcha, a Master’s student at Sikkim University, was awarded the Chief Minister’s Education Scholarship. Orphaned and pursuing higher education despite numerous challenges, the scholarship stands as a beacon of encouragement for his academic aspirations.
The beneficiaries expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Prem Singh Tamang, Honourable Chief Minister of Sikkim, for creating a platform that listens to and responds to the concerns of the people. Through the Connect to CM initiative, even the most remote and unheard voices are given a direct channel to reach the government—bridging gaps through a simple call and transforming lives through timely intervention.
The programme served as a reminder that governance, at its best, goes beyond administration and becomes a reflection of compassion and responsiveness.
The Block Administration reaffirmed its commitment to continue implementing this initiative with sincerity, ensuring that every genuine voice is heard and every deserving individual receives the support they need.
Later, the beneficiaries also wrote messages to the Chief Minister on the “Wall of Gratitude,” expressing their appreciation and thanking him for hearing their voices and bringing positive change to their lives.
Among those present were Up-Adhyaksh Ms Sonam Kipa Bhutia, Chairperson (Horticulture) Ms Ongkit Lepcha, OSD Food and Civil Supplies Mr Tashi Thendup Lepcha, OSD Land Revenue Mr Ugen Lepcha, OSD to MLA Dzongu Mr Roshan Subba, Zilla Panchayat Member Ms. Amrita Limboo, Zilla Panchayat President Lum Mr Dawa Lepcha, Zilla Panchayat Member Tingvong Ms Lakhit Lepcha, beneficiaries, BAC staff, and members of the public.
The programme began with the ceremonial offering of khadas to the distinguished guests by Block Development Officer Dr. Mahendra Tamang. This was followed by a welcome address by the BDO, who briefly highlighted the objectives of the programme and outlined the extensive planning, monitoring, and verification processes undertaken to ensure that only genuine beneficiaries receive support under the initiative. He also shared that the programme has been implemented under the banner of Connect to CM since October 2025, with continued efforts to extend its benefits to deserving individuals in future phases.
Gracing the occasion, Mr Sherap Chopel Katuk, Principal Director from the Chief Minister’s Office, personally handed over appointment orders and financial assistance to carefully verified beneficiaries. His presence symbolised a governance system where the distance between the people and the highest office is bridged through compassion and commitment.
Each beneficiary carried a story of struggle, resilience, and renewed hope.
Ms Tshering Ongmu Bhutia of Tingvong village received an employment order in recognition of her family having no member in government service. For her, this opportunity marks not only employment but a significant step towards stability and self-reliance.
Mr Sangay Thinlay Lepcha was provided assistance under the Chief Minister’s Self Employment Scheme, as his family had long depended solely on subsistence farming. The support is expected to strengthen his livelihood and encourage economic self-sufficiency.
Mr Tencho Lepcha, a Master’s student at Sikkim University, was awarded the Chief Minister’s Education Scholarship. Orphaned and pursuing higher education despite numerous challenges, the scholarship stands as a beacon of encouragement for his academic aspirations.
The beneficiaries expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Prem Singh Tamang, Honourable Chief Minister of Sikkim, for creating a platform that listens to and responds to the concerns of the people. Through the Connect to CM initiative, even the most remote and unheard voices are given a direct channel to reach the government—bridging gaps through a simple call and transforming lives through timely intervention.
The programme served as a reminder that governance, at its best, goes beyond administration and becomes a reflection of compassion and responsiveness.
The Block Administration reaffirmed its commitment to continue implementing this initiative with sincerity, ensuring that every genuine voice is heard and every deserving individual receives the support they need.
Later, the beneficiaries also wrote messages to the Chief Minister on the “Wall of Gratitude,” expressing their appreciation and thanking him for hearing their voices and bringing positive change to their lives.
Among those present were Up-Adhyaksh Ms Sonam Kipa Bhutia, Chairperson (Horticulture) Ms Ongkit Lepcha, OSD Food and Civil Supplies Mr Tashi Thendup Lepcha, OSD Land Revenue Mr Ugen Lepcha, OSD to MLA Dzongu Mr Roshan Subba, Zilla Panchayat Member Ms. Amrita Limboo, Zilla Panchayat President Lum Mr Dawa Lepcha, Zilla Panchayat Member Tingvong Ms Lakhit Lepcha, beneficiaries, BAC staff, and members of the public.