Northeast Desk, 17th February: The Governor of Sikkim, Lakshman Prasad Acharya, accompanied by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and Union Minister of State for DoNER, BL Verma, presided over the foundation stone-laying ceremony for a Buddha statue at Raj Bhavan premises on February 16, 2024, as part of the event ‘Hamro Sankalp: Viksit Bharat Pushpit Sikkim’.
Emphasizing the global significance of Lord Buddha’s teachings, the Governor highlighted the symbolic importance of the statue at Raj Bhavan, where monks and pandits offered prayers for universal peace and the smooth construction of the statue.
As part of the event, the Governor inaugurated a Sikkimese zen garden and released balloons, with the ceremony witnessing the presence of various dignitaries, including ministers, department heads, and other officials.
During the event, the Governor toured the flower show, participated in prayers at the Raj Bhavan temple, and visited the library and bonsai exhibition. He lauded Sikkim’s motto ‘Sikkim, where nature smiles,’ acknowledging the state’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable living.
Addressing the audience, the Governor stressed the importance of the ‘Hamro Sankalp: Viksit Bharat Pushpit Sikkim’ initiative in ushering in a new era of development. He underscored the collective responsibility of citizens in contributing to Bharat’s development by 2047, emphasizing the crucial role of youth in shaping the future.
Shri BL Verma, the Minister of State for DoNER, expressed gratitude for the warm reception from the people of Sikkim, highlighting the state’s significance in the journey towards Viksit Bharat @2047. He commended Sikkim for its status as the first organic state in the nation and praised the rich culture of the North East.
The event also featured cultural performances showcasing the region’s vibrant heritage, with a special act by Raj Bhavan children demonstrating organic farming practices. Additionally, the Governor distributed sewing machines to the Self Help Group (SHG) of Ben Phangyong, underscoring the commitment of all stakeholders to contribute to Bharat’s development.