Women hold the nation’s highest office, like President Droupadi Murmu, says Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang highlighted the importance of women’s empowerment and gender equality during the State-Level Celebration of International Women’s Day in Sikkim. Addressing the gathering, he extended his greetings to all mothers, daughters, and sisters of the state and emphasized the government’s efforts in supporting women’s welfare and progress.

“This is the first time we are celebrating International Women’s Day in such a grand way in Sikkim. We have always honored and felicitated women, but today, we are also discussing how women can unite and contribute to the state’s growth and prosperity,” said Tamang.

The Chief Minister said that a man’s success is often attributed to the support of women in his life. “It is time we change the way we perceive women. They have developed and progressed significantly. Earlier, women were not seen in defense services, but today they serve in the armed forces, drive their own vehicles, and hold leadership positions. Even our country’s highest office is held by a woman, President Droupadi Murmu,” he said.

He pointed out the bias that still exists in society, where men’s achievements are widely acknowledged, but women’s efforts often go unnoticed. “If a man stands alone on the road at night, people call him brave. But if a woman does the same, she is judged. This perception must change,” he added.

The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government has been working towards women’s empowerment through various initiatives:

Financial Assistance for Mothers: The government has been depositing Rs 40,000 into the accounts of 32,000 mothers in Sikkim, which is higher than in other states. Additionally, mothers receive financial assistance of up to Rs 3 lakh.

Bahini Scheme: To ensure girls do not miss school due to menstrual hygiene issues, the government provides free sanitary napkins in every school.

Aam Sahyog Yojana: Under this scheme, the government provides four free LPG cylinders (worth Rs 4,400) annually to families under the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category.

Sishu Samriddhi Yojana & Mero Rukh Mero Santati: To promote environmental conservation, the government has introduced this scheme where a child’s birth is registered with the Forest Department, and 108 saplings are planted for each child. The government also provides a fixed deposit of Rs 10,800 for 18 years under this initiative.

Mero Bato, Mero Bot: A program launched by the Forest Department to encourage community participation in tree plantation.

Widow Pension Scheme: The government has reduced the waiting period for widow pension from 20 years to 21 years, benefiting many single mothers and widows.

Tamang also spoke about the importance of giving women equal opportunities in the workforce. “In the past, female contractors were rare. Now, we have introduced a policy allowing women to participate in government tenders without cutting Tender Deposit Receipt (TDR). Women contractors can now bid for projects worth up to Rs 10 crore, and 50% of tenders are reserved for them,” he said.

The Chief Minister said that Sikkim government is committed to creating a more inclusive and equal society for women in Sikkim. “Today, on Women’s Day, we must change our thinking and support women in every aspect of life,” he said.