Gangtok, Sept. 23: Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Tuesday graced the grand celebration of the Biswakarma Pratibha Samman 2025 at Manan Kendra, marking 50 years of Sikkim’s statehood and the 48th foundation year of the Sikkim Biswakarma (Kami) Kalyan Samity.
The programme began with a welcome address by MLA and Advisor Madan Cintury, who also serves as Chief Patron of the event. In his address, the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of honouring creativity, labour, and traditional skills rooted in the legacy of Lord Bishwakarma, revered as the "Divine Architect."
He urged the youth to uphold cultural values while embracing modernity, stressing that true talent lies not only in academics but also in hard work, innovation, and contributions to society. The CM fondly recalled pioneers such as Late Chhabilal Cintury, Late Bhaktiman Lohar, Late M.M. Rasaily, and Late G.S. Cintury, who made remarkable contributions to Sikkim’s development.
The CM also announced that September 23 will be observed as a Restricted Holiday in Sikkim from 2026 onwards, ensuring greater participation in the annual celebration.
Awards and Honours
• B.B. Singh Lohar Lifetime Achievement Award 2025: Mr. Kiran Rasaily
• Shilpakari Puraskar Award 2025 (in memory of Late G.S. Cintury): Mr. Kamal Lamichaney
• Felicitation: Renowned Nepali filmmaker Mr. Tulsi Ghimire
Competitions and Recognitions
• Mom and Me Magic Runway: Winners included Ms. Pranita Sharma & Miss Adhira Sharma (Junior category), Ms. Bomrick & Miss Zivan Baraily (Senior category), among others.
• Youth Icons: Mr. Aditya Baraily (Mr. Biswakarma Youth Icon), Ms. Yashna Gadaily (Miss Biswakarma Youth Icon).
• Painting Competition on Global Warming: Winners included Miss Bainavi Gupta (Junior) and Master Youjal Ghatani (Senior).
• Essay Competition on Teenage Challenges: Winners included Miss Drishti Gurung (Junior) and Master Hissey Dorjee Tamang (Senior).
Launches and Cultural Highlights
The event also saw the launch of a video documentary, the Connect Earth website for climate action, and the IFM Academy of Professional Studies, Gangtok, now empanelled with the Skill Development Department. Cultural segments featured madal recitation, Maruni dance, musical performances, and a fashion show curated by Hemant Ramudamu and Suvagata Das with IFM Academy students.
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The celebration drew wide participation, with dignitaries including the Deputy Speaker, MLAs, advisors, former legislators, local leaders, and delegations from across Sikkim and neighbouring regions. The programme concluded with prize distribution and a vote of thanks by Organising Committee President Sachin Ruchal.