No need to wait for elections: CM Golay delivers GCI sheets across Sikkim with fairness and speed

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang’s government carried out a large-scale distribution of Galvanised Corrugated Iron (GCI) sheets across all 32 constituencies in Sikkim. This major welfare initiative was completed in a single day, reaching thousands of families in both rural and urban areas.

Unlike past practices where welfare schemes were often timed just before elections, this distribution has come years ahead of the next election, showing that Golay’s administration is focused on real needs, not vote banks. The GCI sheets have long been a demand from citizens, raised repeatedly during the Janta Bhetghat Karyakram, where the Chief Minister interacts directly with the people.

This time, the government listened — and acted.

Over 500 beneficiaries per constituency received the much-needed roofing material, with each person getting 30 sheets. The distribution wasn’t limited to one section of society. Special quotas were reserved for mayors, deputy mayors, councillors, Panchayat members, Zilla Adhyakshas, and others to ensure fairness and wide coverage.

The initiative also extended support to groups often left behind. A special quota for the Sarathi Welfare Board benefitted 300 drivers, recognising their role in keeping Sikkim connected and moving. The outreach to the urban poor also marks a shift in focus — from the usual rural-only model to a more inclusive welfare framework.

Addressing the deeper meaning of this effort, officials noted that this wasn’t just about delivering sheets. It was about showing that government does not need a deadline or election date to act. It was about service, not show. Leadership, not lip service.

In the past, such distributions were often stockpiled and then handed out during Janta Mela, right before elections. This time, the Golay-led Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government made it clear: they are rejecting appeasement politics and setting a new example of prompt and principled governance.

The planning was detailed, and the execution was smooth. Departments worked in full coordination. The State Rural Development Department played a key role in ensuring timely delivery and fair allocation. Ministers, advisors, chairpersons, officers, and local officials all came together to ensure the scheme reached every corner of Sikkim.

According to political observers, this mass distribution is a strong signal of the SKM government’s shift away from politics of delay. The clear message is: public service should not be saved for election time — it should happen when the people need it most.

Chief Minister Golay’s decision to roll out the GCI distribution well before the next polls has been praised by many citizens. “This is not just about roofing sheets. This is about trust. Our Chief Minister listens to us,” said a resident from West Sikkim who received the benefit.

What also stood out was the tone of dignity and fairness in the process. Beneficiaries were chosen through set quotas and systems, avoiding favouritism. The goal was to help those in real need, not those with connections.

This effort is also seen as a reflection of the SKM Government’s slogan: “One Sikkim, Team Sikkim.” And in action, it goes further — proving that governance, when driven by conscience and compassion, does not need a reason or a season.

The GCI distribution shows that Sikkim today is being governed by a team that values delivery over delay, service over strategy, and people over politics.

As stated by the Press Secretary to the Chief Minister, Yougan Tamang, this initiative captures the government’s vision of “Sunawlo, Samriddha ani Samarth Sikkim” — a prosperous and empowered Sikkim, where no one is left behind and help doesn’t wait for election season.