Sikkim CM Honors Mothers with Aama Samman Diwas

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang launched the state’s first Aama Samman Diwas, a day dedicated to celebrating mothers, by distributing Rs 20,000 cheques to 32,000 non-working mothers at Rangpo Playground. The initiative, part of the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government’s Aama Samman Yojana, aims to honor mothers’ sacrifices and contributions with an annual grant of Rs 40,000, disbursed in two Rs 20,000 phases, alongside a hot water bottle for each recipient.

Addressing thousands gathered at the event, Tamang called the initiative both “personal and political,” emphasizing mothers’ pivotal role in Sikkim’s social and political fabric. “Mothers have stood shoulder to shoulder with revolutionary comrades, sharing struggles and sacrifices,” he said, linking their resilience to the SKM’s journey. The scheme, costing Rs 128 crore annually, targets non-working mothers aged 18-59, identified via household surveys, to support their financial independence and well-being.

Tamang tied the occasion to Jan Unmukti Diwas, marking his release from “unjust imprisonment” on August 10, 2018. He recalled how mothers visited him in jail, offering scolding, advice, and courage that fueled his revolutionary spirit. “Their words kept me fighting,” he shared, framing the scheme as a tribute to their unwavering support.

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The event saw cultural performances and testimonials from beneficiaries, with one mother from Gangtok saying on X, “This aid will help me support my children’s education.” The initiative aligns with SKM’s welfare push, including free LPG cylinders and increased pensions for women. However, critics on X questioned the scheme’s sustainability, citing Sikkim’s Rs 14,000-crore budget and rising debt.

Tamang vowed to expand the program, with plans to include working mothers by 2027 and integrate skill development for sustainable livelihoods. Aama Samman Diwas, he said, will be an annual celebration to reinforce Sikkim’s commitment to empowering its mothers, fostering both cultural pride and economic upliftment.

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