Gangtok: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang underscored the importance of unity and development for the Gurung community during the state-level Gurung Tamu Lochar Festival 2024-25.
Addressing the gathering, Tamang expressed his deep respect for the community and highlighted the significance of such cultural programs in fostering development.
“Today, I have not come just to console you, but to express my respect from the bottom of my heart for the Gurung community. Programs like these are crucial for community development,” he stated, emphasizing the role of cultural heritage in building a strong and unified community.
Tamang credited the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government for its continuous efforts toward the welfare of the Gurung people. He assured that the party’s commitment to fostering growth and providing opportunities for the community would bear fruit in the coming decades. “While the benefits of our work may not be immediately apparent, in 20 years, the Gurung community will realise the significance of what the SKM government has done, with more Gurung individuals holding high positions in various sectors,” he said.
Calling for global unity among the Gurung people, Tamang stressed the need to preserve culture, tradition, and heritage. He shared a personal anecdote about witnessing Gurung people proudly wearing traditional attire abroad and encouraged similar celebrations within Sikkim. “If the Gurung people can celebrate their heritage in other countries, Sikkim should do the same. We are not a party that divides Sikkim. We aim to make Sikkim united and strong,” he remarked.
The chief minister also addressed the existence of multiple Gurung committees in the state, advocating for a unified body to strengthen the community’s voice and initiatives. “If two committees can exist, why not one? Unity is our strength,” he said, emphasizing the power of collective action.
In a show of support, Tamang announced a government allocation of Rs 75 lakh for constructing a new Gumpa, ensuring adequate land for the project. He reiterated his commitment to serving the Gurung community and fostering its growth. “As chief minister, I always give, never take,” he concluded.
The event marked a celebration of Gurung heritage and a call for preserving cultural pride while focusing on the collective progress of the community in Sikkim and beyond.
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