New Delhi: Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang paid homage to former Chief Minister of Sikkim, Late Shri Nar Bahadur Bhandari, on the occasion of his 86th birth anniversary at Samman Bhawan, Gangtok.
The commemorative programme was attended by the Deputy Speaker, Cabinet Ministers, MPs, MLAs, Chief Secretary, elected representatives, former legislators, political functionaries, Secretaries, senior government officials and other dignitaries.
The programme commenced with Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang and other dignitaries lighting the ceremonial lamp in remembrance of the late leader.
Paying tribute to Late Shri Nar Bahadur Bhandari, Chief Minister Tamang in his public post recalled his significant contribution to the history, development and progress of Sikkim. Born on October 5, 1940, Late Bhandari served as the second Chief Minister of Sikkim from 1979 to 1994, with his tenure marked by a focus on the social, cultural and economic advancement of the State and the welfare of its people.
The Chief Minister highlighted Late Bhandari’s historic role in securing the inclusion of the Nepali language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India, describing it as a landmark achievement that provided enduring constitutional recognition to the language and cultural identity of the Nepali-speaking community.
He also recalled Late Bhandari’s commitment to farmers, workers, teachers, government employees and the underprivileged, noting that his public life reflected the values of justice, equality and dedicated service to the people.
The Chief Minister further highlighted the Government’s initiatives to honour and carry forward Late Bhandari’s legacy. The observance of Shri Bhandari Jayanti as a gazetted public holiday is a mark of respect for his invaluable contribution to Sikkim. The Nar Bahadur Bhandari Fellowship Scheme, instituted in his memory, reflects his belief in the transformative power of education and supports deserving students from Sikkim in pursuing higher studies at leading universities across the world.
A special address on the life, political journey and contributions of Late Nar Bahadur Bhandari was delivered by OSD, Culture Department, Mr Neelam Neopaney. A documentary produced by the Information and Public Relations Department, showcasing the life, legacy and contributions of the former Chief Minister, was also screened on the occasion.
Chief Minister Tamang called upon the people to honour Late Bhandari’s legacy by upholding the values of service, justice, equality and dedication to the people, and by working collectively towards building a stronger, more prosperous and harmonious Sikkim.
The birth anniversary of Late Shri Nar Bahadur Bhandari is observed as a gazetted public holiday in Sikkim, a decision taken during the tenure of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang’s Government as a tribute to the former Chief Minister and his enduring contribution to the State.
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