Gangtok, February 24: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the construction of a special school for children with disabilities was signed today at the office of the District Collector, Gangtok.
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| Officials exchange documents after signing the MoU for construction of a ₹660.55 lakh NHPC-funded special school for children with disabilities in Gangtok on February 24. (Image: DIO Gangtok) |
The agreement was signed between NHPC Limited, Teesta-V Power Station, and the District Collector-cum-Magistrate, Gangtok, in the presence of Executive Director NHPC, Mr. Jitendra Kumar, and District Collector-cum-Magistrate Mr. Tushar Nikhare.
The project, estimated at ₹660.55 lakh, will be funded under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainable Development initiatives for the financial year 2025–26. CSR in India is a statutory obligation under the Companies Act, 2013 and is monitored by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Eligible companies are required to allocate at least 2% of their average net profits towards CSR activities in areas such as education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, rural development and support for disadvantaged sections.
Over the years, CSR initiatives in Sikkim have significantly strengthened social infrastructure, particularly in education, healthcare, skill development and community welfare. These efforts have included upgrading school infrastructure, organising medical camps, supplying essential equipment, improving drinking water and sanitation facilities, promoting livelihood programmes and extending assistance during natural calamities.
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The proposed special school is expected to substantially enhance inclusive education infrastructure in the district by providing accessible facilities, specialised learning resources and a supportive environment for children with disabilities.
The initiative is being spearheaded under the leadership of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to further strengthen welfare measures and infrastructure for persons with disabilities in the state.
Also present at the ceremony were Additional DC Mr. Sisum Wangchuk Bhutia; Assistant DC, Gangtok, Mr. Bhawesh Khyalia; Group General Manager (Electrical), NHPC, Mr. Lendup Lepcha; Group Senior Manager (HR), NHPC, Mr. Sujit Mahakud; Group Senior Manager, NHPC, Mr. Ranjan Kumar; and Scientific Assistant, NHPC, Mr. Chewan Narayan Regmi.
