Press Release From Saran Pradhan, Panchayat Sachiv, 26-Mellidara Paiyong GPU National Panchayati Raj Day Celebrated at 26-Mellidara Paiyong GPU

Namchi, 24 April: The 26-Mellidara Paiyong Gram Panchayat Unit (GPU) commemorated National Panchayati Raj Day on 24 April 2025, aligning the occasion with the recently concluded Poshan Pakhwada (8 – 23 April 2025).

The celebration was graced by the presence of the Hon’ble MLA of 12-Melli Constituency, Shri N.B. Pradhan, as the Chief Guest. Shri Madan Cintury, Hon’ble MLA of 8-Salghari Zoom, served as the Guest of Honour. Other special invitees included former Panchayat members, ADC (Development) Namchi, and AD (PRI) Sumbuk.

The event began with a welcome speech by the Panchayat President, Smti. Priscilla Limboo, who underscored the importance of grassroots democracy and community-led development. A notable highlight of the programme was the GPU’s collective recognition of all former elected representatives, including the current MLAs, for their invaluable contributions to local governance.

The GPU conferred special recognition to the Upper Paiyong ICDS Centre, declared as an “Inspiring ICDS Centre” based on a community survey led by SWI Mr. Spandan Pradhan. The centre was acknowledged as a model for child-care and nutrition service delivery.

Mementoes were presented to Anganwadi Workers (AWWs), ASHA facilitators, and other frontline workers, appreciating their dedicated service.

A Special Gram Sabha was convened during the event, focusing on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH). Discussions addressed key priorities to strengthen community well-being and sustainable living practices.

The GPU, in collaboration with the ICDS department, successfully executed Poshan Pakhwada across its nine ICDS centres. The AWWs showcased a variety of nutritious, organic, and locally sourced food items. Shri Pravin Silal, CDPO Jorethang, delivered a talk on the significance of healthy diets in early childhood development.

The Hon’ble MLAs delivered insightful speeches, highlighting the progress of ongoing developmental schemes in the state and particularly in the Melli Constituency. Their remarks emphasised the state’s commitment to inclusive growth and participatory governance.

The event reflected a strong spirit of community engagement, nutrition awareness, and commitment to inclusive local development. The active involvement and support of Village Administration Centre staff played a key role in the smooth and successful execution of the programme.