CM Prem Singh Tamang Attends Sikkim Akademi Purashkar 2025 and Book Release Ceremony at Samman Bhawan

Gangtok, December 2025: The Chief Minister, Shri Prem Singh Tamang, attended the Sikkim Akademi Purashkar 2025 and the Book Release Ceremony held at Samman Bhawan, in the presence of a distinguished gathering of scholars, writers, artists, and cultural contributors.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the Sikkim Akademi has begun conferring the Sikkim Akademi Purashkar annually to recognise and encourage creators excelling in language and literature, music, painting, and various art forms. This year’s honour was presented to master craftsman Shri Bharat Rai of Jarong, Ravangla Sub-Division, widely acclaimed for his traditional bamboo craftsmanship. Shri Tamang congratulated him and his family, stating that his dedication and perseverance continue to inspire the people of Sikkim.

He further noted that since 2019, the Government has remained committed to supporting Sikkimese citizens striving for excellence across sectors including education, health, tourism, sports, technology, literature, music, and art. He added that these efforts extend deep into rural areas, where the Government continues to identify, uplift, and acknowledge talent in both contemporary and traditional fields, an initiative that has yielded encouraging results.

Describing the ceremony as a vibrant celebration of Sikkim’s creative spirit, the Chief Minister remarked that the creators, litterateurs, scholars, musicians, researchers, and innovators present are shaping the cultural identity of the State and inspiring future generations. Their contributions, he said, continue to elevate Sikkim’s heritage across India and the world.

Addressing the role of creativity in the modern age, Shri Tamang underscored that in an era dominated by rapid technological advancement and Artificial Intelligence, it is even more essential for writers and litterateurs to create with depth, emotion, and human insight. “Technology may offer information, but literature preserves wisdom and safeguards the soul of society,” he observed, calling writers and thinkers the true custodians of culture and collective consciousness.

The event also featured the release of several important publications, including the collective work “Role and Contribution of Indian Nepali / Nepali-Speaking Indians in the Making of Modern India.” The Chief Minister extended gratitude and congratulations to all authors, scholars, and contributors involved in these works.

The Chief Minister expressed his sincere thanks to the organisers, guests, participants, and the creative community for making the event meaningful. He stated that their presence and contributions continue to strengthen the cultural fabric of Sikkim.

Report from Chief Minister’s Office, CMO