Yangang Hosts Awareness Programme under ‘Mero Bato, Mero Bot’ Campaign

The event was organised under the flagship campaign ‘Mero Bato, Mero Bot’ by the Social Forestry & Environment Soil Conservation Division, Namchi, under the Forest and Environment Department, Government of Sikkim.

The Deputy Speaker of Sikkim Legislative Assembly and MLA for Rangang-Yangang Ms Raj Kumari Thapa, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

In her address, Ms Raj Kumari Thapa underlined the importance of realising the vision of beautifying the road from Sirwani to Yangang. She stressed that the monitoring, preservation, and protection of the planted saplings must be a shared responsibility among all participants in the plantation drive.

She encouraged Panchayats and educators to hold similar awareness initiatives to ensure widespread understanding and support for the campaign.

Emphasising long-term outcomes, she stated that Yangang holds great potential as a future tourist destination, and beautification through plantations would significantly enhance its appeal. She also commended the department for their dedicated efforts.

Delivering the keynote address Ms Angel Ongmu Chettri, Divisional Forest Officer (Wildlife), reiterated that “Mero Bato, Mero Bot” is a flagship campaign led by the Chief Minister of Sikkim Mr Prem Singh Tamang.

She highlighted the vital role of public involvement in the plantation drive and noted that saplings would be planted following a thematic colour scheme for visual harmony.

Mr Mukesh Jairu, Assistant Engineer from the Roads & Bridges Department, shared insights into the technical aspects of the campaign. He informed that Junior Engineers and supervisors would be appointed for effective plantation and monitoring efforts.

He also urged the public to develop an emotional connection with the planted saplings and emphasised the need for regular monitoring to ensure survival and growth.

An interactive open discussion session was facilitated by Ms Marmit Lepcha, DFO Social Forestry and Land Use. Delegates contributed various suggestions, including identifying suitable plantation zones, selecting appropriate plant species, and ensuring that avian biodiversity is considered during the plantation process.

The programme witnessed the presence of several dignitaries including local Panchayats, BDO Yangang Ms Needay Bhutia, ACF (Territorial) Mr Sanjeev Kumar Rai, ACF (Land Use) Ms Dorjee Ongmu Bhutia, as well as officials from the Forest Department and other line departments, alongside representatives from governmental and non-governmental organisations.