Gyalshing, Sikkim: A modern futsal arena, built under the Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) of the 17th Lok Sabha, was inaugurated on June 1 at Pelling Chumpong Secondary School in Gyalshing District. The facility aims to bolster physical well-being and foster a robust sporting culture among students and local youth.
The inauguration ceremony saw the esteemed presence of Minister Bhim Hang Limboo, who heads the Buildings and Housing Department, Government of Sikkim, and also serves as the Area MLA for the 02 Yangthang Constituency. He was joined by Sikkim’s Lok Sabha MP, Indra Hang Subba, and MLA of 05 Rinchenpong, Erung Tenzing Lepcha. The new arena is touted as one of the most contemporary sports facilities in the region, reflecting a commitment to improving local infrastructure.
N.T. Bhutia, the Headmaster-in-charge of Pelling Chumpong Secondary School, expressed immense pride in the new addition. “This is one of the best sports infrastructure projects our school has ever received,” he remarked, highlighting the significant upgrade to the school’s existing facilities. The school boasts a rich sporting legacy, counting international football player Priya Chettri, who has represented both Sikkim and India, among its notable alumni. Her accomplishments continue to inspire budding athletes in the area.
MP Indra Hang Subba, addressing the gathering, dedicated the futsal arena to all students of the school and the wider youth community. He underscored the critical need for providing quality sports facilities in rural areas to identify and cultivate young talent. He also urged the School Management Committee (SMC) to ensure proper maintenance of the arena and its optimal utilisation for the benefit of all students. “We want to see more athletes like Priya Chettri coming from our villages,” he stated, echoing the aspirations for future sporting stars.
The event witnessed a substantial turnout, including Zilla Panchayat members, local Panchayat leaders, members of the School Management Committee, the Joint Director of Education and staff, the ASP of Gyalshing District, the Joint Director of Sports, students, parents, and local residents. To mark the grand opening and encourage student engagement in sports, an exhibition futsal match was held, featuring Minister Bhim Hang Limboo, MP Indra Hang Subba, and MLA Erung Tenzing Lepcha, who actively participated in the friendly game, symbolically promoting fitness, teamwork, and an active lifestyle among the students.
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