Sikkim Marks India’s 80th Independence Day, Honours Outstanding Contributors

Dragon Media News Desk

Sikkim marked India’s 80th Independence Day with a special ceremony at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, where individuals, students, cooperative institutions and sportspersons were honoured for outstanding achievements and contributions in various fields.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang addressed the gathering, highlighting the state government’s focus on development, public welfare and the aspirations of its citizens.

During the ceremony, Gallantry Awards, Police Medals, Shrawan Kumar Awards and State Meritorious Service Awards were presented in recognition of courage, distinguished service and notable contributions.

Students who secured top positions in the Class X and XII Board Examinations for the 2025–26 academic year were also honoured with State Meritorious Awards for academic excellence.

In the cooperative sector, awards were presented to the best-performing cooperative societies under the Cooperation Department, while outstanding athletes were recognised through State Sports Awards.

Addressing the event, Chief Minister Tamang said the government remained committed to placing the needs and aspirations of the people at the centre of governance and to developing Sikkim as a model state.

He described public trust and support as major sources of strength in the state’s development journey and said Sikkim’s recent achievements and recognitions reflected collective effort.

A grand parade by security personnel and other participating contingents formed one of the major highlights of the celebrations. Tamang praised the discipline, dedication and spirit of service demonstrated by the participants and thanked everyone who contributed to the successful organisation of the event.

He also congratulated all award recipients and achievers, saying their dedication, perseverance and accomplishments were a source of pride and inspiration for the people of Sikkim.

As the Indian Tricolour was hoisted, the ceremony reaffirmed a collective commitment to building a “Sunaulo, Samriddha and Samarth Sikkim” — a golden, prosperous and capable Sikkim — guided by the principles of freedom, justice, equality and dignity for every citizen.