Gangtok, Apr 10: Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur visited the Sang-Rabdang Subdivision of Gangtok District on Wednesday to assess development activities, review the implementation of government schemes, and interact with district officials and local residents.

During a meeting at the Martam Block Administrative Centre (BAC), the Governor held discussions with officials from various departments including Health, Rural Development, Agriculture, and Horticulture. Key focus areas included the progress of Central schemes such as MGNREGA, Pradhan Mantri Gramin Awas Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, Amrit Sarovar, and AYUSH wellness programs.

Emphasizing the need for grassroots participation, the Governor highlighted the role of committed public service in achieving developmental goals. He also expressed concern over the rising suicide rate in the state and called for a united, community-based approach to address mental health and substance abuse challenges. Raj Bhavan, he assured, would fully support such initiatives.

To ensure effective delivery of welfare programs, the Governor proposed appointing dedicated officers to monitor progress and submit regular reports. He also urged all officials to go beyond their duties and act as facilitators of public welfare.

As part of the visit, the Governor inaugurated the Beng-Phegyong Plastic Waste Management Unit under the Swachh Bharat Mission — the first of its kind under the Martam BAC — aimed at improving waste management and promoting environmental sustainability.

He also visited the under-construction National Institute of Technology (NIT) campus at Khamdong and described the project as a valuable asset for higher education in Sikkim.

At the Rural Self Employment Training Institute (RSETI) in Makha, supported by the State Bank of India, the Governor praised efforts to promote women’s entrepreneurship and self-employment. He encouraged trainees to support the “Vocal for Local” initiative and share their skills with others in line with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

The visit concluded with an inspection of the 300-bed District Hospital under construction at Chisopani near Singtam, being developed in line with Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) and National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS).

The Governor was accompanied by Roads and Bridges Minister N. B. Dahal, Sang-Martam MLA Sonam Venchungpa, District Collector Tushar Nikhare, Zilla Adhyaksha, Upa-Adhyaksha, officials from various departments, panchayat members, and local residents.