Pakyong, Aug 11: Sikkim observed its first-ever Aama Samman Diwas on Sunday at Rangpo Ground, honoring mothers for their vital contributions to families and society. The event was attended by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay along with his mother Dhan Maya Tamang and wife Krishna Kumari Rai.

August 10 has been officially declared as Aama Samman Diwas to be celebrated annually across the state. The event was organized by the Women, Child, Senior Citizens, and Divyangjan Welfare Department and witnessed participation from senior government officials including the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, and other dignitaries.

Chief Minister Tamang highlighted the sacrifices and dedication of mothers, describing them as the unsung heroes of society. He announced that under the Sikkim Aama Sasaktikaran Yojana, 32,000 mothers will receive financial assistance of ₹40,000 each, disbursed in two instalments.

The Chief Minister also launched the Nari Adalat, a women-led community forum aimed at providing accessible and informal justice for issues such as minor family disputes, domestic violence, marital conflicts, property matters, child custody, harassment, and dowry-related cases, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.

Other government initiatives supporting women and mothers include maternity leave benefits, breastfeeding pods in all districts, Aama Yojana, Bahini Yojana, Ama Sahayog Yojana, Widow Pension Reform, Vastalya Yojana, and Sabbatical Leave. The Mero Rukh Mero Santati initiative, linking motherhood with environmental conservation, was also highlighted.

During the event, 210 mothers were felicitated by the Chief Minister’s Office for their contributions. Awards were presented to the best-performing mothers under the Sikkim Aama Sasaktikaran Yojana. Additionally, over 4,200 mothers will receive support for annual four-cylinder refills under the Aama Shayog Yojana to ease fuel expenses.

A short film titled “Khabsey” was screened, and the Aama Suvidha Ghar was inaugurated, offering breastfeeding rooms, crèches, and healthcare corners to ensure comfort and safety for mothers during public gatherings.

Officials including PHE Department Chairperson Chumila Bhutia and WCSC&DWD Secretary Normit Lepcha praised the role of mothers and the government’s ongoing efforts to empower them.