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Sikkim celebrates 40th State Day

By A Correspondent

GANGTOK, May 17 � Despite geographical and connectivity constraints, Sikkim has emerged as one of the best all-round performing States in the country in just 40 years after its merger with the Indian Union, State Governor Shrinivas Patil said. He was addressing the 40th State Day celebration organised at Chintan Bhawan here on Saturday.

Sikkim became the 22nd State of the Indian Union on May 16, 1975. Later, the 36th Amendment of the Constitution made Sikkim a full State, adding its name to the First Schedule of the Constitution.

Patil asserted that Sikkim has been striving forward in the path of progress. The rate of literacy in the State is one of the highest in the country and per capita income is the third highest in the country, but let�s not lie on our laurels but work with even more zeal and fervour and give our best to make it exemplary in the country, he urged.

Patil expressed his grief and concern over the earthquake that jolted the neighboring country of Nepal on April 25.

Chief Minister Pawan Chamling remembered the father of democracy in Sikkim and first Chief Minister LD Kazi and his unparalled contributions.

Earlier, the Governor and Chief Minister paid their homage to the first CM of Sikkim LD Kazi by garlanding his statue in the premise of Chintan Bhawan.

On the occasion, Sikkim State Civilian Awards were conferred. Former Cabinet Minister Tulsi Prasad Pradhan was awarded LD Kazi Award for Democratic Movement, which consisted of cash prize of Rs 1 lakh, citation, shawl and memento. The award was instituted in recognition of the sterling contributions and achievements made by individuals in various disciplines.

Three former Chief Secretaries KC Pradhan, PK Pradhan and Karma Gyatso were conferred with Sikkim Sewa Ratna. The award carris a citation, a cash award of Rs 2 lakh, a gold-plated silver medal, a memento and a shawl.

38 persons received Sikkim Sewa Samman which carries a citation, Rs 1 lakh, a silver medal, a memento and a shawl. Subash Deepak, Pema Wangchuk and Pema Leyda Shangdarpa were conferred with Sikkim Sewa Samman for their contribution in the field of journalism.

Renowned literary figure Mahananda Poudyal was conferred with the Sahitya Samman. Yuva Protsahan Samman, Udyog Samman and Khel Samman were also conferred.

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