Gangtok, July 16: Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur conferred the Governor’s Medal on 37 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets of the state in recognition of their participation in various national and state-level events. The ceremony was held at Ashirvad Bhavan on Tuesday.

The event was attended by Education Minister Raju Basnet, Education Department Commissioner-cum-Secretary Raj Yadav, NCC Group Commander for Sikkim and Darjeeling Brigadier Mukesh Gurung, Education Department Secretaries Tashi Chopel and Tenzing Kizom, Commanding Officers, college principals, teachers, and several dignitaries.

In his address, the Governor emphasized the role of NCC as the world’s largest uniformed youth organization, highlighting its contribution in preparing young citizens for leadership, nation-building, and careers in the armed forces. He encouraged the cadets to work towards building an inclusive and progressive society in line with the national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’

Governor Mathur expressed pride in Sikkim’s high concentration of NCC cadets in proportion to its population, stating it as the highest among Indian states. He extended his best wishes to all awardees for their future endeavours.

The medals were awarded in three categories—15 gold, 15 silver, and 7 bronze.

Education Minister Raju Basnet urged more students to join NCC, assuring support from the department. Brigadier Gurung presented an overview of NCC activities in the state.

The event also featured a performance by the ‘Rhythm of Rangit’ NCC Choir from Namchi, which delivered patriotic songs, including “Jahan Bagchhe Teesta Rangit,” stirring a sense of national pride among attendees.