Sikkim marked the first anniversary of Governor Om Prakash Mathur’s tenure with a colourful event called ‘Utkarsh Utsav’. Held at the Raj Bhavan in Gangtok, the event brought together government officials, students, cultural performers, and members of civil society. It was a celebration of the Governor’s year-long efforts to connect with the people of Sikkim.
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A Festival of Culture and Public Spirit
The celebrations began with traditional welcome rituals, followed by a vibrant display of local culture. Folk dances, songs, and performances by the Lepcha, Bhutia, and Nepali communities were highlights of the evening. The performances reflected the cultural unity and diversity of the Himalayan state.
Governor Mathur addressed the audience and said that Raj Bhavan had become a place for public participation. He stated that the real purpose of ‘Utkarsh Utsav’ was to celebrate people’s involvement in governance. “This is not just about a personal milestone. It’s about making the Governor’s office open and responsive,” he said.
A Year of Outreach and Public Interaction
Since taking charge in August 2024, the Governor has held regular meetings with students, youth groups, farmers, and local leaders. He hosted various educational sessions at Raj Bhavan, welcomed school groups, and launched a monthly grievance platform.
Many young people in the state say they now feel more connected to governance. A student from Namchi who visited Raj Bhavan said, “It was the first time I saw the Governor’s house from inside. He listened to us and encouraged us to aim high.”
Governor Mathur also worked to highlight the role of Sikkim’s indigenous communities. He supported local artists, encouraged cultural exchanges, and focused on preserving traditional knowledge. Public art displays, awareness drives, and eco-friendly workshops were part of his outreach.
Praise From Government and Public
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang shared his appreciation for the Governor’s people-centric approach. In a short message, he said Governor Mathur had built a strong bridge between the state and its citizens.
Cabinet ministers and senior bureaucrats echoed this view. They said the Governor’s leadership was marked by openness and accountability. Education Minister Kunga Nima Lepcha mentioned how the Governor had taken a special interest in student development and education.
Citizens who attended the event expressed happiness at being part of the celebration. Many said this was the first time they felt invited into the Raj Bhavan space. One elderly visitor from Gyalshing said, “Earlier, Raj Bhavan felt distant. Now it feels like ours.”
Future Plans and Focus Areas
The Governor used the platform to share his vision for the next year. He announced two new initiatives – the “Raj Bhavan Fellowship Program” and a state-wide “Heritage Week.” The fellowship will offer young researchers a chance to work on local policy issues. Heritage Week will celebrate traditional crafts, languages, and practices.
He also stressed the importance of protecting Sikkim’s fragile environment. “Development must go hand in hand with conservation,” he said. He promised to continue eco-awareness efforts through public campaigns and community-led action.
Climate action and youth involvement will be key themes of his second year. He encouraged schools and colleges to take part in the state’s green mission and contribute ideas for a sustainable future.
Display of Progress and Public Trust
Utkarsh Utsav was not just a cultural event. It also showcased the progress made over the past year. Several stalls highlighted the work of government departments, especially in areas like education, health, and rural development.
A photo exhibition displayed major activities of the Governor’s office. These included rural innovation awards, student exchange programs, and environmental workshops. These efforts showed how the Governor’s role went beyond ceremonial duties.
Visitors appreciated the interactive nature of the event. “It felt more like a community gathering than a government function,” said a teacher from Pakyong. He added that the Governor’s focus on ordinary people made the event truly meaningful.
A Governor Close to the People
The evening concluded with the national anthem and a community dinner featuring local dishes. As the lights dimmed and people left the Raj Bhavan lawns, there was a sense of pride and satisfaction.
Governor Om Prakash Mathur’s first year in Sikkim has been about inclusion, accessibility, and respect for tradition. By bringing people into the conversation, he has made the role of Governor more relevant and connected to daily life.
With a clear focus on youth, culture, and sustainability, he has created a blueprint for active and compassionate leadership. Sikkim looks ahead with confidence, knowing that its leadership is focused on both progress and people.
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