Sikkim: Awareness programme on central government schemes held in Mangan

A one-day Awareness Programme focusing on various Central Government schemes was held today at the Lingchom Tingda Community Hall in Mangan. The event, organized by the Commerce and Industries Department in collaboration with the Entrepreneurship and Economic Development Cell (SEED CELL), aimed at raising awareness about schemes under the Raising and Accelerating MSMEs Performance (RAMP).

The programme was graced by Thinley Tshering Bhutia, the Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Kabi Lungchok constituency, and Advisor to the Health and Family Welfare Department, as the chief guest. Alongside him were Zilla Panchayat members, Panchayat Presidents, members, and local entrepreneurs who attended the session.

The day’s proceedings began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by a welcome speech from Prakash Rai, the General Manager of the District Industry Centre (DIC) in Gangtok. Rai provided an insightful overview of the programme and set the tone for the sessions ahead.

The keynote address was delivered by Raj Lama, the Chief Coordinator of the SEED Cell. Lama addressed the gathering with a motivational talk, encouraging the unemployed youth of the area to seize business opportunities. He specifically highlighted the various government schemes designed to support entrepreneurship, explaining how these initiatives can empower individuals and provide sustainable income sources.

A key part of the session was the detailed presentation on the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), delivered by Junior Engineer from the Commerce and Industries Department, Norbu Tshering Lepcha. This presentation provided attendees with a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria, benefits, and application process for the PMEGP scheme.

PK Chettri followed with an in-depth presentation on the RAMP and PM Vishwakarma schemes. These initiatives aim to promote skill development and support MSMEs, empowering small business owners to scale up their operations.

The highlight of the event was a session on the UNNATI scheme, presented by Janak Bdr Chettri, Deputy Director of DIC. He elaborated on the objectives and eligibility criteria of the scheme, emphasizing its role in uplifting rural entrepreneurs. His explanation helped attendees understand the numerous benefits and the long-term impact these initiatives could have on their businesses and communities.

In his address, MLA Thinley Tshering Bhutia encouraged the youth to view farming as a viable business opportunity. He highlighted the potential of agriculture and urged young people to consider it as a sustainable livelihood. Bhutia also emphasized the importance of managing business earnings wisely, ensuring they are reinvested for long-term growth and stability.

Furthermore, Bhutia stressed the importance of proactive engagement between Zilla Panchayats and higher authorities. He encouraged Panchayat members to identify the challenges faced by their communities and to work collaboratively with local and state-level authorities to find effective solutions.

“Today’s awareness programme is a step in the right direction,” said Bhutia, expressing his gratitude to the organizing departments and the resource persons who contributed to the event. He expressed hope that the participants would leave the programme equipped with the knowledge to take full advantage of the opportunities presented.

The programme also included an interactive session where Sangay Bhutia, a local entrepreneur, shared her business journey with the attendees. Her inspiring story served as a valuable source of motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs in the room, and she offered insights into how others could follow similar paths to success.