GANGTOK: In a poignant and deeply personal announcement, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Saturday declared that August 10 will now be celebrated as ‘Aama Samman Diwas’ across the state, a day dedicated to honouring mothers.
The declaration marks a significant shift, as the date was previously observed as ‘Jan Unmukti Diwas’, commemorating the day of his release from what he termed an unjust imprisonment back in 2018. The Chief Minister shared that during his time of confinement, it was the unwavering love and silent strength of his mother that sustained him. “When I was kept away from home unjustly, my thoughts always went back to one person — my mother,” he stated, his voice filled with emotion. He recounted his mother’s quiet pain and sleepless nights, emphasising that her constant belief in him became his ultimate shield.
Tamang further elaborated on the invaluable role mothers play, asserting that no political victory or societal change can happen without their courage and prayers. He hailed the legacy of a mother as being “greater than any throne, title, or achievement,” describing it as a priceless and timeless gift to society.
The Chief Minister also took the opportunity to highlight his government’s commitment to empowering mothers through various initiatives. He mentioned the ‘Aama Sashaktikaran Yojana’, which provides financial aid to mothers, the establishment of breastfeeding pods in public areas, and increased opportunities for women in leadership and entrepreneurial roles. “When we empower our mothers, we empower Sikkim,” he said, encapsulating the philosophy behind his government’s actions.
Tamang concluded by describing the decision as a personal tribute, a way of expressing gratitude not just to his own mother, but to every mother across Sikkim, whose love, he said, is the state’s foundation and whose strength is its future.
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