Namchi Marks 80th Independence Day with Patriotic Fervour and Celebration of Service, Culture and Community Spirit

Namchi District Headquarter joined the nation in commemorating the 80th Independence Day with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm at Bhaichung Stadium, Namchi, today.

Minister for Urban Development and Food & Civil Supplies Mr Bhoj Raj Rai, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The programme was attended by MLA Namchi-Singhithang Mr Satish Chandra Rai, Advisor, Panchayati Raj Ms Rama Tamang, APS to HCM Namchi Mr Bishnu Prasad Sharma, NMC Chairperson Mr Ganesh Rai, DC Namchi Ms Anupa Tamling, ADC Namchi Mr Subash Ghimirey, ADC Namchi Ms Trisang Tamang, SDM Headquarters Mr Nim Pintso Bhutia, SDM Namchi Mr Wangyal Sherpa, along with Heads of Offices, officials from various line departments, ex-servicemen, teachers, students and public at large.

The celebrations commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag by the Chief Guest, followed by the National Anthem rendered by the student choir of PM SHRI Government Senior Secondary School Namchi.

The ceremonial March Past was thereafter presented by contingents comprising ex-servicemen, NCC cadets and students from various schools, led by the Pipe Band of PM SHRI Government Girls Senior Secondary School, Namchi and Namchi Public School.

As part of the official proceedings, DC Namchi Ms Anupa Tamling read out the Independence Day message of the Governor of Sikkim, while ADC Namchi Mr Subash Ghimirey delivered the Independence Day message of the Chief Minister of Sikkim.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Mr Bhoj Raj Rai extended his greetings and best wishes to the people on the 80th Independence Day and congratulated the recipients of the Shravan Kumar Award 2026. He appreciated the enthusiastic participation of students and ex-servicemen in the Independence Day parade and commended all those involved in making the celebrations a success.

Reflecting on India’s journey to independence, the Minister recalled the historic attainment of freedom on 15 August 1947 and paid tribute to the freedom fighters whose courage, sacrifice and determination laid the foundation for an independent India. He emphasised that the freedoms enjoyed by citizens today are a legacy of their selfless struggle and sacrifice.

He further stated that Independence Day is not merely an occasion to celebrate freedom, but also a time to reflect upon the duties and responsibilities of every citizen towards the nation. He called upon the people to uphold the values of unity, integrity and patriotism and to contribute meaningfully towards the continued progress and development of the country.

Highlighting the importance of environmental conservation, he stressed that protecting nature and safeguarding the Earth for future generations is a collective responsibility. He urged citizens to adopt environmentally responsible practices and play an active role in preserving the natural heritage of Sikkim.

The Minister also acknowledged the dedicated efforts of government departments, organisations, students, ex-servicemen and all other participants who contributed to the successful conduct of the celebrations.

The occasion also witnessed the presentation of the District Meritorious Service Awards (DMSA) to government employees in recognition of their dedicated, committed and exemplary service.

The DMSA recipients were:

1. Ms Meena Rai – Office Superintendent, Environment & Soil Conservation Division, Forest Department

2. Ms Eden Lamu Bhutia – Head Assistant, Agriculture Department

3. Ms Deep Mary Rai – Office Supervisor, Rural Development Department

4. Mr Lakpa Sherpa – Supervisor, Education Department (Engineering Cell)

5. Mr Kashi Nath Adhikari – Lance Naik Fireman, Fire & Emergency Service Station, Namchi

6. Ms Damber Kumari Rai – Head Forest Guard, Forest & Environment Department, Territorial Division

7. Mr Chewang Sherpa – Head Forest Guard, Forest & Environment Department, Wildlife Division

8. Mr Rinku Lepcha – Driver, Cooperation Department

9. Mr Hai Bahadur Rai – Field Assistant, Horticulture Department

10. Mr Robin Tamang – Office Attendant, Land Revenue & Disaster Management Department

11. Mr Mohan Kumar Chhetri – Office Attendant, Roads & Bridges Department

12. Mr Urgen Tshering Tamang – Nursery Worker, Environment & Soil Conservation Division, Forest Department

13. Mr Bhim Bahadur Pradhan – Safaikarmachari, Tourist Information Centre, Melli

Letters of Appreciation were also presented to Mr Udesh Hang Limboo, Assistant Sub-Inspector, Food & Civil Supplies Department, and Mr Sangey Nima Tamang, Naik, Police Station Namchi, in recognition of their dedicated service and support.

The Simran Memorial Trust felicitated Ms Sharmika Sharma, Class XII (Science), VCGSS Rabong, for securing 95.20 per cent marks in the AISSCE CBSE examination for the academic year 2025–26.

The prestigious Shravan Kumar Award 2026 was also presented to 54 individuals from across Namchi District in recognition of their exemplary selfless service, love and devotion towards their elderly parents. The award seeks to acknowledge and celebrate the enduring values of filial duty, compassion and respect for senior citizens.

In the March Past Competition, PM SHRI Government Senior Secondary School Namchi secured the first position, followed by PM SHRI Girls Senior Secondary School Namchi in second place and Namchi Public School in third place.

As part of the district’s continued commitment towards a drug-free society, the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) Pledge was administered by the SDM Namchi, reaffirming the collective resolve to combat substance abuse and promote a healthy and drug-free district.

The celebrations were further enlivened by vibrant cultural presentations by students from various schools and institutions. The performances included integration dance, Shiv Tandav, Nepali folk dance, patriotic dance, semi-classical and freestyle performances, and Indian folk dance fusion, showcasing the rich cultural diversity and artistic talent of the district.

A spirited Taekwondo demonstration by the Namchi Taekwondo Association also formed part of the programme.

Adding to the sporting fervour of the occasion, the Women’s Open Football Tournament 2026, organised by the Namchi District Football Association in collaboration with the District Administrative Centre, Namchi, and the Sports & Youth Affairs Department, saw State Sports Academy, Soreng emerge victorious over Dentam Girls Football Academy to lift the championship title.

ADC Namchi Ms Trisang Tamang delivered the welcome address, while CEO Namchi Mr G P Sharma proposed the vote of thanks. In his address, he expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, departments, organisations and stakeholders for their support and participation, while highlighting the importance of continued focus on education, youth development and opportunities for students.

The 80th Independence Day celebrations at Namchi concluded on a spirited note, reflecting the district’s collective commitment to patriotism, public service, cultural heritage, youth empowerment and nation-building.