Prabha Rai, a resident of Assangthang, Namchi, in Sikkim, has received the prestigious Chiya Kavita Puraskar 2024 for her remarkable contributions to literature, education, and the promotion of reading culture. The award ceremony, hosted by the Chiya Kavita Group on May 22nd, coincided with World Tea Day.
Rai, known for her dedication to literature and education, has long been a catalyst in fostering a love for reading among the community. In her efforts to cultivate this habit, she established a library at her residence in Dumi Gaon, Assangthang, aimed particularly at children. Moreover, she has been actively involved in advancing language and literature, preserving traditional arts and folk traditions, and advocating for widespread reading through the DG Reading Room Resource and Education Foundation, which she founded in 2019.
The Chiya Kavita Puraskar 2024 serves as a testament to Rai’s unwavering commitment to the arts and literature. The award was presented to her by Culture Secretary Basant Lama during a ceremony held at Rachna Books, Development Area, Gangtok, on International Tea Day, in the presence of esteemed guests and Prabin Khaling, the founder of the Chiya Kavita initiative.