Gangtok: With a deep sense of pride and commitment to public service, Sikkim celebrated State Civil Services Day on Sunday, bringing together administrative officers, bureaucrats, and government employees to reflect on the vital role of the civil services in building an efficient and citizen-centric governance system. The event, held at Chintan Bhawan in Gangtok, highlighted the tireless efforts of civil servants in shaping the state’s progress and ensuring inclusive development across the Himalayan region.
Marked by a blend of formal addresses, felicitations, and policy discussions, the day provided a platform for acknowledging the contributions of the state’s administrative machinery while also reaffirming the values of integrity, transparency, and service to the people.
A Salute to Service
The Chief Secretary of Sikkim, V.B. Pathak, delivered the keynote address, praising civil servants for their unwavering dedication, especially in difficult terrains and challenging conditions. He emphasized that civil servants are the bridge between the government and the people, often working quietly behind the scenes to implement policies, manage crises, and improve lives.
“Civil services are the backbone of administration. They represent the continuity and stability of governance, especially in a state like Sikkim where both geographical and developmental challenges demand innovation and efficiency,” said Pathak.
He further urged officers to stay updated with emerging technologies and evolving governance practices, so they can better respond to the aspirations of a digitally connected and informed citizenry.
Awards and Recognition
A key highlight of the celebration was the felicitation of outstanding officers for exemplary performance in their respective departments. Awards were conferred in categories such as innovation in administration, public grievance redressal, rural outreach, and digital service delivery.
Among the awardees was Tashi Doma Bhutia, an SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate) from North Sikkim, who was honoured for her impactful work in remote village development and disaster preparedness. In her brief address, she dedicated the recognition to her team and stressed the importance of teamwork in administration.
Also recognized was the Rural Development Department for its successful implementation of government schemes like MGNREGA and the Sikkim Garib Awas Yojana (SGAY), which have significantly improved rural housing and employment opportunities.
Inspirational Talks and Policy Dialogues
The event featured interactive sessions and panel discussions on themes like “Reimagining Public Service in the Digital Age” and “Climate Resilience and Governance in Himalayan States.” Senior bureaucrats, young officers, and policy experts shared insights on how civil services can adapt to contemporary challenges such as environmental sustainability, disaster management, and youth engagement.
Guest speaker and retired IAS officer, Dr. A.K. Shrivastava, reminded the gathering that civil servants must remain impartial, people-oriented, and solution-driven. “It’s not just about following rules, but about applying them wisely and compassionately. True governance lies in how well we understand the needs of our people,” he said.
Youth Engagement and Motivation
To inspire future civil servants, students from colleges and universities in Sikkim were invited to attend the programme. A short film was screened showcasing the life of a field officer, capturing the day-to-day challenges and triumphs of civil service in remote parts of the state. A career guidance session was also organized for aspiring candidates preparing for SPSC and UPSC examinations.
Governor and CM Extend Greetings
While Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya could not attend the function, he sent a message appreciating the work of the state bureaucracy and called upon civil servants to uphold ethical governance. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang also conveyed his greetings through a social media post, stating, “On this Civil Services Day, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all civil servants of Sikkim for their dedication and hard work. May you continue to serve the people with greater zeal and responsibility.”
Looking Ahead
As Sikkim continues to evolve on its developmental journey, the role of civil servants remains more critical than ever. The State Civil Services Day served not only as a day of appreciation but also as a moment of introspection and recommitment to the ideals of public service. With a renewed focus on transparency, innovation, and people-first governance, Sikkim’s civil service is poised to meet the challenges of tomorrow while staying true to its core mission—serving the people with honour and efficiency.
