Namchi, 05 August (IPR): The All Sikkim Hair & Beauty Studio Association (ASHBSA) was officially inaugurated during the Glamora Seminar 2026, organised by the Association at a local hotel in Namchi today.
Addressing the gathering, the Guest of Honour, former MLA of 11-Namchi Singhithang Constituency, Ms Krishna Kumari Rai, congratulated the Association on its formal establishment and extended her best wishes for its future endeavours. She commended the initiative of creating a dedicated platform for beauty professionals, describing it as a significant milestone that would promote unity, professional development and the welfare of beauticians across the State.
She observed that the Association would provide members with a collective identity while opening avenues for skill enhancement, networking and mutual support. Highlighting the vital role of women in society, she remarked that their active participation contributes greatly to the success of any sector. She also noted that the beauty industry is increasingly attracting both women and men, reflecting its growing significance as a professional field.
Encouraging the Association to strengthen public awareness, she stressed the importance of educating people about the objectives of ASHBSA and the opportunities available within the beauty industry. She appreciated the Association for organising a five-day skill development workshop as part of the seminar.
She further urged members to complete the Association’s registration process to enable them to access various government welfare schemes and benefits. She also advised the Association to secure insurance coverage to safeguard its activities and members against unforeseen circumstances.
She expressed confidence that the Association would play a pivotal role in protecting the interests of beauty professionals, particularly those seeking employment opportunities within and outside the State. Reaffirming the State Government’s commitment towards women’s empowerment, she stated that the vision of the Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang, is to promote self-reliance and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for women across Sikkim.
Concluding her address, she urged members to observe the occasion as the Foundation Day of the All Sikkim Hair & Beauty Studio Association (ASHBSA).
MLA of 11-Namchi Singhithang Constituency, Mr Satish Chandra Rai, congratulated the members on establishing the first-ever Association dedicated to the beauty industry in Sikkim. He appreciated the invaluable contribution of beauticians in enhancing confidence and personal presentation, stating that their profession deserves greater recognition and respect.
Expressing confidence in the Association’s future, he stated that, under the guidance of the Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, and former MLA Ms Krishna Kumari Rai, ASHBSA would continue to flourish. He also assured the Association of his continued support towards its growth and welfare.
Chief Advisor of ASHBSA, Ms Babita Limboo, thanked the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour, dignitaries, supporters and participants for their presence and encouragement. She informed that the Association would work towards facilitating professional certification for beauticians while creating employment opportunities within and outside the State. She reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to safeguarding the interests and welfare of beauty professionals throughout Sikkim.
Chairman of the Sikkim Art, Culture and Heritage Development Board and Advisor to ASHBSA, Mr Sanjay Dilpali Rai, welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the significance of establishing the Association as a unified platform for beauticians across the State. He thanked former MLA Ms Krishna Kumari Rai for her continued guidance and support.
Describing beauticians as artists, he remarked that their creativity enhances both beauty and confidence. He encouraged members to remain united, continuously upgrade their professional skills, uphold high standards of professionalism and extend support to one another. He expressed confidence that collective efforts would contribute significantly to the growth of Sikkim’s beauty industry.
President of ASHBSA, Ms Rekha Gurung, stated that the Association has been established to safeguard the interests and welfare of beauty professionals across all six districts of Sikkim. She said the seminar had been organised in Namchi to provide members with convenient access to the latest industry knowledge, techniques and emerging trends.
She informed that the Glamora Seminar 2026 is being held from 5 to 9 August 2026, with around 25 participants receiving professional training in hair styling, make-up artistry and fashion design.
The training sessions are being conducted by resource persons from Kathmandu, Nepal—Mr Dinesh Rai, an expert in hair and make-up styling, and Mr Sagar Alley Mangar, a celebrity fashion designer.
During the programme, the Chief Guest and the Guest of Honour officially unveiled the logo of the All Sikkim Hair & Beauty Studio Association (ASHBSA).
The occasion also featured the felicitation of sponsors and collaborating artists in recognition of their unwavering support and valuable contributions to the Association.
A major attraction of the event was a fashion showcase featuring three models representing different designer wear categories. The models presented a variety of hairstyles, make-up artistry and designer ensembles as part of the seminar and will continue to participate throughout the remaining sessions.
The programme concluded with vibrant cultural performances.
Among those present were Chairpersons, Advisors, OSDs, Councillors, Panchayat representatives, HoOs of various line departments,dignitaries and members of the All Sikkim Hair & Beauty Studio Association (ASHBSA).
Report From DIO Namchi