Empowering Hearts: Sikkim Pioneers India’s First Welfare Department for Women, Children, Seniors, and the Disabled

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) has historically restructured the state’s “Women & Child Development Department” to include senior citizens and persons with disabilities, renaming it the “Woman, Child, Senior Citizen & Person with Disability Welfare Department.” This move, announced on January 21 during the closing day of the Maghey Sankranti Mela at Jorethang Playground, marks a first in India and underscores the CM’s commitment to inclusive governance. The department has been allocated an enhanced budget to meet the diverse needs of all citizens.

During the Mela, which ran from January 14 to January 21, CM Tamang highlighted the unique nature of this year’s event, as it saw the unprecedented participation of the Governor at the inauguration and concluded with the CM himself. He remarked that such participation, particularly from the Governor, is rare, signifying a celebration of the region’s culture and shared history. The Mela facilitated economic growth for the community by providing local residents the chance to set up stalls, launch new businesses, and capitalize on opportunities within the tourism, hospitality, and transport sectors. The event was framed not just as an entertainment spectacle but as a “mela of opportunities,” fostering community spirit and offering a platform for local artists, entrepreneurs, and businesses to thrive.

Overall, this initiative reflects CM Tamang’s dedication to promoting inclusive governance and economic development, which he aims to achieve through more supportive and comprehensive departmental frameworks and community-focused events.

Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/sikkim/story/sikkim-becomes-indias-first-to-launch-welfare-department-for-women-children-seniors-and-disabled-1158890-2025-01-22?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-01-22 19:53:00