State-Level Awareness Programme on Labour Laws Held in Namchi on International Labour Day

The programme was graced by Minister for Urban Development and Food & Civil Supplies Departments Mr Bhoj Raj Rai as the Chief Guest, alongside the Minister for Labour and Buildings & Housing Mr Bhim Hang Limboo, who attended as the Guest of Honour.

In his address, Mr Bhoj Raj Rai underlined the tireless efforts of the Chief Minister of Sikkim Mr Prem Singh Tamang, in championing the cause of the underprivileged. He emphasised the numerous schemes introduced to enhance the working environment for labourers across the state.

He remarked that labourers form the backbone of both state and national progress and should be appreciated for their physical contribution, free from discrimination.

He encouraged officials across departments to adopt a compassionate and inclusive approach while delivering schemes aimed at improving workers’ livelihoods.

The Minister also advocated for personal and public hygiene, expressed concern over the declining birth rate in Namchi, and spoke on the need to monitor migration and labour influx. He addressed trade licence subletting issues and shared that tax rates on agricultural produce and other services have been reduced to boost commerce in the state.

Finally, he encouraged the youth to engage in entrepreneurial ventures and called upon everyone to nurture a positive attitude and a deep sense of belonging to the state.

Mr Bhim Hang Limboo reiterated the Labour Department’s unwavering commitment to supporting workers. He announced the construction of a 100-bed hospital in Namthang Sub-Division, exclusively for the healthcare of workers, as per the Chief Minister’s vision.

He also mentioned the construction of hostels for workers’ children, aimed at reducing commute times and helping them focus on their studies. The Minister revealed plans to revise the workers’ pension scheme, with the goal of increasing the pension amount to Rs 5 lakh.

Highlighting the state’s commitment to health, he said several Medical Awareness Camps are being held statewide, urging workers to make full use of these services. He concluded with a heartfelt thanks to the labour force for their dedication and service.

Labour Department Secretary Mr Bhim Thatal, welcomed all attendees and invoked the slogan “Workers of the World, Unite” to honour the global labour community. He gave a brief history of Labour Day and cited religious scriptures to stress the significance of labour.

He proudly shared that Sikkim offers the highest minimum wage in India, with workers receiving a minimum of Rs 15,000 per month, calling it a visionary step by the Chief Minister. The Secretary also elaborated on laws and acts implemented to safeguard labour welfare and concluded by reading out the Chief Minister’s message for International Labour Day.

Special Labour Commissioner Mr K R Limboo, presented a comprehensive overview of various labour laws enacted in the state. He stressed the importance of workers being aware of these laws, which are designed to enhance their living standards and working conditions.

State-Level Labour Wing Vice-President In-Charge, Mr A K Ghatani, affirmed that the programme was dedicated to recognising and uplifting workers. He praised the Chief Minister’s leadership and urged all departments and districts to collaborate closely with the Labour Wing to further the cause.

He offered deep gratitude to the state’s workers for their relentless effort in building and progressing the state and nation.

As a highlight of the event, Mr Ram Bahadur Kami employed at the Roads & Bridges Department in Namchi, was felicitated with the Sikkim Shram Samman 2025 award, presented by the Chief Guest.

The programme featured various cultural and literary performances, enhancing the celebratory spirit of the day.

At the outset of the programme, the Chief Guest formally inaugurated the Health Camp organised for registered workers under the Building and Other Construction Workers Act, 1996. Following the inauguration, the Chief Guest engaged with the attending medical professionals to review and assess the health status of the participating workers.

Also present during the programme were MLA Namchi-Singhithang & Chairman Denzong Cooperative Society- Mr Satish Chandra Rai, Zilla Adakshya Namchi-Ms Anjeeta Rajalim, Chairperson NMC- Mr Ganesh Rai,President NJNP- Mr Pavitra Manav, DC Namchi- Ms Anupa Tamling, ADC Namchi- Ms Tirsang Tamang, SDM (HQ)- Mr Nim Pintso Bhutia, SDM Namthang- Mr Praveen Gautam and HoOs from various line departments.