CM Prem Singh Tamang greets people on Asar 15, hails festival as a symbol of Sikkim's agrarian heritage
He also lauded the contributions of Sikkim’s farming communities, especially highlighting how communities including the Nepali-speaking populace and others have worked in harmony to keep this tradition alive.
LOCAL
On the occasion of Asar 15, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang extended warm wishes to the people of Sikkim and Nepali-speaking communities across the globe, emphasizing the deep cultural and agricultural significance of the day. In a heartfelt message, the Chief Minister acknowledged the traditional importance of Asar 15, a day that marks the beginning of the main paddy plantation season, celebrated across the hills and farmlands of Sikkim and the eastern Himalayan region.
"Asar 15 is not just a date on the calendar; it represents our long-standing connection to the soil, our respect for the rhythms of nature, and our collective identity rooted in agriculture," CM Tamang said. He noted that the day has always been celebrated with joy, music, community farming, and the symbolic meal of dahi-chiura (curd and beaten rice), a humble but meaningful reminder of the agrarian way of life that has nourished generations.
In his message, the Chief Minister praised the traditional rice planting festivities as more than just agricultural work. "It is a celebration of unity, resilience, and hard work. The act of sowing rice seedlings is a spiritual and cultural expression of gratitude towards the land," he said.
He also lauded the contributions of Sikkim’s farming communities, especially highlighting how communities including the Nepali-speaking populace and others have worked in harmony to keep this tradition alive. "Through this festival, we foster cooperation, tolerance, and mutual respect — making Asar 15 a powerful symbol of our shared cultural heritage," he remarked.
Tamang further added that such cultural events remind us of the values of sustainable farming and the importance of maintaining self-reliance in food production. "In today’s time, it is vital that we collectively move toward making our agricultural systems more scientific, environment-friendly, and productive," he said, stressing the need for innovation alongside the preservation of tradition.
He acknowledged the hard work of farmers and expressed gratitude for their unwavering dedication. “This day is a tribute to the tireless spirit of our farmers and the life-sustaining value of crops like paddy. Let us all resolve to honour their contribution by supporting policies and practices that uplift the rural economy and farming sector.”