Gangtok, August 2: The State Level Sarathi Samman Diwas celebration was organized today by the Department of Transport at Manan Kendra, Gangtok. Chief Minister Mr. Prem Singh Tamang attended as the chief guest, accompanied by Madam Krishna Rai.
Sarathi Samman Diwas, previously known as Chalak Diwas, is organized by the current Government to honor the contributions of the state’s driving community. This year’s celebration, initially scheduled for July 27, was postponed to August 2.
Key Highlights: Sarathi Samman Diwas
- Chief Guest: Chief Minister Mr. Prem Singh Tamang and Madam Krishna Rai.
- Special Guests: Speaker SLA Mr. M N Sherpa, Deputy Speaker SLA Ms. Raj Kumari Thapa, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, and other dignitaries.
- Unique Celebration: Sikkim is the first state in India to observe “Sarathi Samman Diwas.”
Chief Minister’s Announcements: Sarathi Samman Diwas
- Fine Reduction: The fine for driving without a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate has been reduced to Rs 500 from Rs 10,000.
- Insurance Policy: Drivers can now submit necessary documents to the Sarathi Welfare Board to benefit from a new insurance policy.
- Sikkim Cab App: A new platform to revolutionize taxi booking, enhancing earning opportunities for taxi drivers.
- Reciprocal Transport Agreement: An agreement with West Bengal to increase the quota of taxi vehicles from Sikkim.
- Luxury Vehicle Driving Permission: Sikkim Voter Card holders can now drive luxurious vehicles.
Chief Minister’s Address: Sarathi Samman Diwas
Mr. Prem Singh Tamang expressed gratitude to the ‘sarathi’ community for their role in the 2024 general election and emphasized their importance in shaping society. He discussed the Prime Minister’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047 and urged everyone to unite under ‘Team Sikkim’ to promote a prosperous Sikkim.
Recognition and Awards: Sarathi Samman Diwas
- Ex-Gratia: Rs 5 Lakhs for accident victims.
- Educational Achievements: Recognition for sarathis whose children have achieved gazetted posts, or are studying MBBS, BDS, or PhDs.
- Best Performers: Awards for the best-performing drivers and conductors in various categories.
- Special Awards: Best Sarathi Award with 12 Wagon R VXI cars, and recognition for drivers contributing differently to society.
Additional Highlights:
- Magazine and Song Release: Chief Minister released a magazine by Bering Kerabari Drivers’-cum-Owners’ Welfare Association and the song “Vijay Bhawa” by Laxuman Pradhan.
- Felicitations: Various organizations, including the State Transport Department, State Chalak Wing, Sarathi Welfare Board, and Sikkim Mechanical Engineering Service (SMES), felicitated the Chief Minister.
Also Read: The Agriculture Department in Sikkim Inaugurated Farmers’ Hostel
The State Level Sarathi Samman Diwas celebration in Sikkim was a remarkable event that showcased the government’s commitment to honoring and supporting the driving community. Chief Minister Mr. Prem Singh Tamang’s announcements, including reduced fines, new insurance policies, and the launch of the Sikkim Cab App, reflect a comprehensive approach to improving the welfare of drivers in the state. The event not only recognized the significant contributions of the sarathi community but also highlighted the state’s pioneering role in celebrating such a day. With cultural performances and the release of a dedicated magazine and song, the celebration was both meaningful and memorable, reinforcing the vital role drivers play in the progress and prosperity of Sikkim.