Namchi, October 12 (IPR): The three-day Chirbirey River Fest, organised by the Sikkim Anglers’ Association (SAA) in collaboration with the Fisheries Department, Government of Sikkim, concluded at Chirbirey, Jorethang, today. The festival also commemorated 25 years of the Association’s commitment to river conservation, ecological stewardship and the preservation of aquatic ecosystems.
On the concluding day, MLA Salghari-Zoom and Advisor to the Transport and Skill Development Departments Mr Madan Cintury, attended the festival as the Chief Guest. He was accompanied by Press Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr Yougan Tamang, Legal Advisor to the Chief Minister Ms Puja Lamichaney, Up-Adhyaksha of Soreng Zilla, Mr C B Shah Shankar, OSD to the MLA Mr Raju Roshan Pradhan, Panchayat NJNP Mr Randeep Chettri, SDM Jorethang Mr B B Rai, MEO Jorethang Mr Dilip Dong and President of SAA Dr S K Dewan, among others.
During the programme, the Chief Guest was felicitated by the Association in recognition of his support and cooperation in organising the festival. The Association also felicitated Nayabazar-Jorethang Nagar Panchayat and Karnali Rafting & Adventure Pvt. Ltd., an adventure tourism agency from Nepal, for their association with the event.
The Catch-and-Release Angling Competition remained the centrepiece of the festival, promoting responsible angling and the conservation of aquatic life. Mr Sukraj Yonzon secured first place and received a trophy, certificate of participation and a cash prize of Rs 50,000.
Mr Tilak Rai and Mr Nazeem Lepcha jointly secured second place, each receiving a trophy, certificate of participation and a cash prize of Rs 20,000. Mr Sanjay Rai secured third place and was presented with a trophy, certificate of participation and a cash prize of Rs 20,000.
In recognition of their outstanding performances, Mr Chong Targain received a Special Commendation for exceptional angling, while Mr Vikiran Gurung was conferred the Best Sportsman Award. Both were awarded cash prizes of Rs 10,000 each.
Mr Jacob Daniels from the United States of America and Mr Devendra Jaishe from Nepal were also presented with certificates in recognition of their participation in the three-day festival. A total of 22 participants in the angling competition received certificates of participation.
As part of the special recognition ceremony, the Association presented tokens of gratitude to Mr Noel Karthak, Ms Maria Malenda, Solo Desi Traveller, Varnamala Parivar, Sanctorium, Poetry Room, Serenity Home, Zero Waste Himalaya, Teesta Rangeet Rescue Team and Community Health Centre, Jorethang, in appreciation of their valuable support and contributions towards the successful organisation of the festival.
The concluding programme also featured musical performances and poetry recitations, adding to the festive atmosphere. A performance by the Salakhala band further enriched the cultural presentations.
The successful culmination of the Chirbirey River Fest reaffirmed the importance of community participation, responsible angling and collective efforts towards protecting rivers and sustaining the region’s rich aquatic biodiversity.
Report From DIO Namchi