Sikkim CM highlights development, cleanliness and local interests at SKM legislators’ meeting

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang chaired the 4th edition of the SKM legislators’ meeting at Samman Bhawan in Gangtok, bringing together party legislators, advisors, political secretaries and other officials for critical discussions on the state’s progress and key challenges.

The Chief Minister outlined an agenda focusing on several important issues, including the grand celebration of the 13th Foundation Day of the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) party. He urged members to use the occasion to showcase the party’s achievements and the government’s developmental initiatives across all constituencies.

One major concern discussed was the unchecked entry of individuals from outside the state into villages and towns. To address this, the meeting decided to implement stricter monitoring of incoming manpower through a temporary work permit system at the Gram Panchayat Unit (GPU) level. This initiative aims to protect local interests while ensuring the organized management of external workforce deployment.

The Chief Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating illegal subletting of trade licenses. He emphasized the importance of promoting local skill development and ensuring employment opportunities for Sikkim’s residents.

Cleanliness and hygiene across the state emerged as another priority. The Chief Minister called on officials and departments to maintain high standards of cleanliness, not only in public spaces but also in government offices. He described cleanliness as an integral part of Sikkim’s developmental vision.

A significant decision taken during the meeting was the establishment of a State Planning and Development Board, supported by constituency-level sister boards. While the state-level board will oversee financial planning and development, nine-member constituency committees will focus on localized initiatives.

The Chief Minister also shared plans for an upcoming pilgrimage to the Mahakumbh in Uttar Pradesh on February 7, 2025. This journey, involving a delegation of legislators, will take place following an invitation from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Other topics discussed included the reservation of LT seats, tribal status for 12 left-out communities of Sikkim, the proposed visit of His Holiness Karmapa Orgyen Trinley Dorjee, and preparations for the upcoming delimitation exercise.

Chief Minister Tamang assured members that organizational structural appointments within the party would soon be undertaken to strengthen its functioning. He appealed to all MLAs to work tirelessly to ensure that the government’s developmental initiatives reach every corner of the state.