32,000 Sikkim mothers to receive Rs 40,000 each as state launches first Aama Samman Diwas

Sikkim rolled out a massive Rs 128 crore welfare scheme on Sunday, with nearly 32,000 mothers across the state set to receive Rs 40,000 each under a new initiative announced during the inaugural Aama Samman Diwas celebration.

 

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang launched the historic programme at Rangpo Playground, where thousands gathered to witness the state's first-ever day dedicated to honouring mothers. The financial assistance will be distributed in two phases of Rs 20,000 each, with recipients also receiving hot water bottles as part of the package.

 

The timing of the announcement carries deep personal significance for Tamang, who chose August 10 to coincide with Jan Unmukti Diwas - the day he was released from what he termed "unjust imprisonment." During his address, the Chief Minister revealed how mothers had sustained him during his incarceration.

 

"When I was in jail, it was often mothers who came to visit me — sometimes to scold me, sometimes to give advice, and often to give me courage to keep fighting," Tamang said. "Their words kept the revolutionary spirit alive in me."

 

The Chief Minister positioned the initiative as both a political and personal decision, emphasising mothers' crucial role in Sikkim's social and political landscape. "Mothers have stood shoulder to shoulder with revolutionary comrades, sharing the same struggles and sacrifices," he stated, drawing parallels between the journey of his Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) Party and the courage demonstrated by mothers statewide.

 

The programme represents one of Sikkim's largest direct benefit transfer schemes targeting women, with the state government committing significant resources to recognise maternal contributions. Tamang announced that Jan Unmukti Diwas and Aama Samman Diwas would be celebrated together annually, creating a unified commemoration of resilience and unity.

 

The Chief Minister acknowledged various officials and departments for facilitating the launch, including Chief Secretary AR Telang, the Women and Child Development Department, the Senior Citizen Development Department, ministers, advisors, and social welfare workers.