Pakyong, 5 January (IPR): The Chief Minister of Sikkim, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, distributed essential relief materials and financial aid through the ‘Chief Minister’s Relief Fund’ at SMIT Mazitar today. This act was carried out to provide support and aid to the affected people of the Teesta Flash Flood.
During this initiative, a total of ₹ 67.05 lakhs in rental support was graciously provided to 447 flood victims. Furthermore, 299 students received financial assistance amounting to ₹ 29.9 lakhs, and relief assistance totaling ₹ 16.4 lakhs was extended to 82 families who were previously left out.
In addition to this, 385 students from the Pakyong, Namchi, Soreng, and Gyalsing districts were awarded the prestigious Chief Minister Scholarship under the Chief Minister Discretionary Grants, amounting to a grand total of ₹ 2.1 crore.
Moreover, 1,101 families were bestowed with material benefits, while 410 families obtained LPG connections to support their daily needs.
During his address, Mr. Prem Singh Tamang highlighted the swift response of the government and its departments in assisting the victims of the flash flood that ravaged the Teesta river belt. The Relief Camps were promptly established without any discrimination, and emergency assistance funds were also provided to schoolchildren in need.
The Chief Minister also shared details about the Purna Awas Yojana Bill, which has already received approval from the cabinet. This bill aims to construct new homes for those individuals whose houses were completely destroyed by the flood.
Similarly, the Janta Housing Colony will be developed for those who are affected by the Teesta flash flood and were previously renting. These individuals will have the opportunity to reside in the flats rent-free for three years, after which they will be required to pay a nominal amount as rent.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister announced that 130,000 BPL households will soon have access to health insurance through the Chief Minister’s Medical Assistance Scheme , enabling them to claim up to ₹ 30 lakhs for medical expenses. The Chief Minister also encouraged both citizens and government officials to avail themselves of health insurance policies for their own benefit.
DC Pakyong, Mr. Tashi Chophel, during his presentation, expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister for his exemplary leadership and approachability during the challenging time. He also provided a comprehensive summary of the Teesta flash flood.
Also present were Madam Krishna Rai, Minister Mr. KN Lepcha, Minister Mr. LB Das, Minister Mr. BK Sharma, Zilla Adhakshya Pakyong, Zilla Upahakshya, DC Pakyong, ADC Development, SDM Rangpo, Vice Chancellor SMIT, along with officers from various departments.
Report from DIO Pakyong
