New Delhi: Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang, along with Governor Mr Om Prakash Mathur, graced the 157th Gandhi Jayanti celebration held at Mahatma Gandhi Marg yesterday, with a focus on sanitation, waste management and greater civic participation.
The programme commenced with the flag-off and handover of 12 advanced sewage and waste collection equipment to the Urban Development Department under the Toyota CSR Programme for FY 2026-27. The initiative is aimed at strengthening mechanised sanitation and supporting efforts towards the elimination of manual scavenging.
The Chief Minister and the Governor thereafter paid floral tributes and offered khadas at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi, commemorating his enduring ideals of cleanliness, service and community participation.
The occasion also saw the presentation of various awards recognising individuals, local bodies, Self-Help Groups and institutions for their contributions towards cleanliness, sanitation and waste management. Poklok Gram Panchayat Unit was recognised as the Cleanest Gram Panchayat, while Gangtok Municipal Corporation was adjudged the Cleanest Urban Local Body.
The Chief Minister also witnessed the release of the WOW Gangtok Report, documenting initiatives undertaken by GMC towards improved waste management, and the launch of the Safaa Gangtok App, developed by the Urban Development Department to provide citizens with easy access to waste management-related services.
A waste management vehicle was also handed over to the State Government by GNS Builders, further strengthening sanitation infrastructure in the State.
Citizens of 14 Upper MG Marg expressed their appreciation to the Chief Minister for the development of a back drain in the area and presented a thangka as a token of gratitude.
The programme further featured a video showcasing waste management initiatives in Gangtok and the digital launch of the official mascot and logo of the Yonex-Sunrise 49th Inter State, Inter Zonal & Junior National Badminton Championships 2026.
The observance underscored the State Government’s continued commitment to strengthening sanitation and waste management systems, while promoting community ownership and active citizen participation in building cleaner, healthier and more sustainable communities.
The Chief Minister said that Gandhi’s ideals should not remain principles of the past, but should serve as a responsibility for the present and a vision for the future.