Sikkim’s Chief Minister, Prem Singh Tamang, addressed a sizable audience at an election meeting Jorethang, framing the upcoming assembly polls as a clash between tradition and innovation. He depicted the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) as an outdated camera and his Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) as a modern iPhone, urging voters to choose between the old and the new.
Tamang, also known as Golay, aged 55, emphasized his youthful vision, dynamism, and work ethic, contrasting himself with SDF leader Pawan Chamling, whom he portrayed as hindered by age and lethargy, symbolizing SDF’s governance stagnation.
Highlighting SKM’s achievements, Golay asserted that his government’s transformative initiatives had earned the people’s favor, contrasting with what he described as 25 years of unfulfilled promises under SDF rule. Accusing the SDF of divisive tactics, Golay cautioned against communal discord, expressing confidence in the discernment of Sikkim’s digitally savvy populace.
Golay underscored the significance of ballot and government employee votes in shaping Sikkim’s governance, outlining a multifaceted plan spanning healthcare to entrepreneurship for a brighter future.
He unveiled the “Matri Sukarksha Kavas Yojana,” providing financial aid and essential vitamins to pregnant women, alongside baby kits for new mothers. Golay also pledged empowerment for women through district-based self-help groups, promoting their active involvement in decision-making.
Tamang introduced the “Invest Sikkim” plan, aiming to attract $18 million in investments by 2035 to bolster economic growth and job creation. Furthermore, he announced free transportation for school and college students in SNT buses and the establishment of free hostels for college students in every district.
