New Delhi, July 29: Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang attended the 8th Sarathi Samman Diwas celebrations held at Manan Kendra, where he paid tribute to the dedication, sacrifice and invaluable contribution of the Sarathi community towards the socio-economic progress of Sikkim.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister recalled that Sarathi Samman Diwas emerged from a shared struggle and the Government’s commitment to honour those who stood steadfast during challenging times. He reaffirmed that the Government remains committed to fulfilling its promises, noting that the first Sarathi Diwas was celebrated on July 27, 2019, shortly after the formation of the SKM Government, and has been officially observed by the Government of Sikkim since 2020.
The Chief Minister highlighted that in 2022, the Government formally adopted the title “Sarathi” in recognition of drivers as trusted partners in the State’s development. Describing them as the true and undeclared ambassadors of Sikkim, he lauded their role as the first point of contact for visitors and their contribution in projecting a positive image of the State.
Shri Tamang outlined several welfare initiatives undertaken by the Government for the Sarathi community, including the establishment of the All Sikkim Sarathi Welfare Board, educational assistance for their children, housing support, health and medical insurance, vehicle distribution, expansion of parking infrastructure, improved interstate transport facilities, and various livelihood enhancement measures.
In a major announcement, the Chief Minister stated that, subject to the prescribed eligibility criteria, one eligible family member of a Sarathi who loses their life in a road accident will be provided employment by the Government. He said the decision reflects the Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the welfare and security of the Sarathi community.
Highlighting recent developments in the transport sector, Shri Tamang informed that under the Reciprocal Transport Agreement signed with the Government of West Bengal, the counter-signature permit quota for Sikkim taxis has been increased from 3,000 to 6,000, creating greater opportunities for Sarathis while strengthening interstate transport services.
The Chief Minister also urged members of the Sarathi community to continue maintaining the highest standards of road safety, professionalism, honesty and courteous service. He emphasised that they carry not only passengers but also the pride, image and reputation of Sikkim, and encouraged them to uphold the trust reposed in them by residents and visitors alike.
Reiterating the Government’s commitment to safeguarding the dignity, welfare and aspirations of the Sarathi community, Shri Tamang called upon everyone to work collectively towards building a Sunaulo, Samriddha, and Samarth Sikkim.
The Chief Minister also extended his heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the Sarathi community on the occasion of the 8th Sarathi Samman Diwas.
On the occasion, the CM distributed a range of welfare benefits, awards and assistance to members of the Sarathi community during the 8th State-Level Sarathi Samman Diwas held at Manan Kendra today.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister handed over a Bolero Neo to a beneficiary under the Government’s welfare initiative. He also presented the Best Sarathi Awards to 12 outstanding Sarathis representing all six districts of the State and distributed 12 Wagon R LXI vehicles in recognition of their dedicated service.
The Chief Minister presented the Best Conductor Award and honoured the best-performing SNT drivers in the truck, tanker and bus categories for their exemplary service. He also conferred the Best Disciplined Driver Awards across various transport categories, recognising drivers for their professionalism, discipline and commitment to safe driving practices.
As part of the Government’s welfare initiatives, the Chief Minister presented ex gratia assistance of ₹5 lakh each to the families of seven road accident victims.
The Chief Minister further felicitated representatives of various transport and drivers’ associations from Sikkim and neighbouring West Bengal, along with drivers and conductors of the Pink City Runner. He also honoured drivers for their exemplary service during the Prime Minister’s visit to the State, recognised a retired government driver for four decades of dedicated service, and felicitated a lady driver for her contribution to the driving community.
Additionally, the Chief Minister presented desktop computers to the Ranipool Local Taxi Owners-cum-Drivers Association to support its functioning and strengthen community services
