CM Prem Singh Tamang greets Press Club of Sikkim on 23rd Foundation Day, says government supports a free and strong press

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on July 17 extended his warm wishes and congratulations to the members of the Press Club of Sikkim (PCS) on the occasion of its 23rd Foundation Day. Calling it a significant day for the media community, he said that the Foundation Day marks a defining moment in the journey of professional journalism in the state.

In his message, the Chief Minister said that the Press Club of Sikkim has served as the umbrella body for journalists and media professionals, bringing them together under one platform. Over the years, he noted, the Club has played an important role in uniting the journalist community, which has been working tirelessly to inform, educate, and inspire the people of Sikkim.

“This Foundation Day is not only a day of celebration but also a time for self-assessment,” said CM Tamang. “It provides an opportunity for journalists to share ideas, look back at their work, and discuss the way forward. It is a moment to reflect on both achievements and the road ahead.”

The Chief Minister strongly emphasised that a free press is a key part of any healthy democracy. He assured the media fraternity that the state government remains committed to ensuring the safety, well-being, and growth of journalists and media houses in Sikkim. He mentioned that the government has taken many steps in coordination with the Press Club of Sikkim to build a strong and dynamic environment for journalism to thrive.

One of the major achievements he highlighted was the fulfilment of a long-pending demand—the establishment of the Press Club of Sikkim Bhawan. “I am confident that our media fraternity is making the best use of the new facilities,” he said.

In addition, the state government has also taken steps to recognise and reward the efforts of journalists in different fields. New award categories have been introduced to honour reporting in areas such as climate change, human rights, and women’s issues. The government has also provided a 17-seater vehicle to the Press Club to help meet the travel needs of its members, which has been well received by the media community.

To further support the journalist community, CM Tamang informed that the government has introduced several journalism awards. The Teesta Rangeet Aviral Kalam Puraskar, awarded on Independence Day, honours the lifetime contributions of senior journalists. The amounts for the Kanchendzonga Kalam Puraskar and the Lagansheel Yuwa Patrakar Puraskar have been increased to ₹1,01,000 and ₹51,000 respectively.

In a move to improve the economic condition of the media sector, the state revised and increased the advertisement rates in 2024. This has helped media houses sustain their operations and continue their work with greater financial stability.

The government has also taken several welfare steps for the media community. Health insurance coverage has been provided to 90 accredited journalists, and the Patrakar Samman Yojana has been launched to give pension support to retired journalists. Under this scheme, a grant-in-aid of ₹20 lakhs has been distributed to senior journalists through the Press Club of Sikkim.

In his concluding message, CM Tamang reminded journalists of the great responsibility that comes with their respected position in society. “With great respect comes great responsibility,” he said. “I urge our journalists to continue their efforts in educating the public and maintaining the trust and confidence that people have in the fourth estate.”

He further encouraged the media to use their platform to highlight the peace, development, and achievements of the state and its people. “May the media space be used more and more to showcase the peace, progress, and prosperity of Sikkim,” he added.