Sikkim CM says government prioritizes transparency, challenges past misuse of welfare schemes

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on April 28 said that his government has accomplished a lot in education and healthcare when it comes to in comparison in between the present administration’s transparency and the previous government's handling of welfare schemes. During his address, the Chief Minister spoke the extensive support provided by his government to students and the underprivileged while addressing concerns over misuse of resources.

Responding to questions about the difference between the current and previous governments, CM Tamang said that his administration has prioritized efficiency, transparency, and inclusivity. “We have implemented education schemes with clear and effective objectives, ensuring that the benefits reach deserving students, not just those with connections,” said CM Tamang.

Regarding educational support, CM Tamang said that the government has allocated substantial funds to assist students both locally and abroad. "So far, we have spent Rs. 19.93 crore helping 4,137 children," he stated. Of this, the Chief Minister pointed out that Rs. 3.5 crore was spent on seven pilot projects aimed at enhancing educational opportunities. He also shared that the government is supporting 33 students studying abroad, with an investment of Rs. 3.03 crore for their education.

Moreover, the government has spent Rs. 4 crore on education-related initiatives to ensure that every child in Sikkim, regardless of background, has access to quality education. CM Tamang expressed his pride in these figures, calling them a reflection of the SKM government's commitment to developing Sikkim’s human capital.

In terms of healthcare, CM Tamang highlighted the ongoing Chief Minister’s Medical Assistance Program, which provides medical aid to the sick, especially children from low-income families. The program, which aims to provide timely healthcare to those in need, is another cornerstone of the government’s commitment to social welfare.

However, the Chief Minister raised concerns about some individuals exploiting government schemes meant for the poor. He recounted an incident involving Komal Chamling, a woman who had used the Below Poverty Line (BPL) quota to study abroad, including at prestigious institutions like Harvard University in the USA. "This is a misuse of the system. We want to ensure that the benefits of these programs are truly reaching those who are most in need," he added.

Despite this misuse, CM Tamang reassured the public that the government would continue to focus on improving the lives of the truly underprivileged. “We are committed to helping the poor regain their dignity through education and healthcare, but we will not allow these systems to be exploited,” he said.

CM Tamang said that the current administration’s focus remains on genuine empowerment through well-managed public welfare programs. "We will continue to ensure that the name of the poor is used for the poor, and not for personal gain," he said.