Sikkim: Raksha Bandhan celebrated with zeal at Indo-China Nathula border

In a heartwarming display of unity and camaraderie, the Indo-China Nathula border in Sikkim witnessed the joyous celebration of Raksha Bandhan on August 30. 

The event was a part of the Seema Darshan program under the Vibrant Village initiative, a unique endeavor aimed at fostering connections between civilians, the military, and local communities. Around 50 university and college students participated in the program, converging at Nathula to mark the auspicious occasion with Army personnel and engage with the residents of Tsomgo Vibrant Village.

The event was organized by the Planning & Development Department in collaboration with the District Administrative Centre Gangtok, the Education Department, the Health Department, the Army, ITBP, and the Hemant Yadav Foundation. 

The only aim of the programme is to 'tie Raksha Bandhan to Soldiers who are guarding the borders away from home doing their duty on this auspicious Raksha Bandhan festival, many of us are joyously celebrating with our families. However, our valiant soldiers stationed on the border, safeguarding our nation day and night, remain separated from their loved ones, unable to partake in this occasion. 

''In a heartwarming effort to bridge this gap and bring smiles to the faces of our dedicated Jawans, students from various states and universities today tie a Raksha Bandha to Indian Army and ITBP Jawans,'' said Dr Hemant Kumar Yadav of Hemant Yadav Foundation which jointly organized the today's event.

Earlier in the morning, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang flagged off the Seema Darshan programme under the Vibrant Village Programme from Ridge Park in Gangtok. 
The students also tied Rakhi to the Chief Minister during the function. 

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's focus on uplifting the last village of the border state and transforming it into a thriving community.

"I extend my gratitude and congratulations to Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji for his dedication to prioritizing the border villages and striving to create vibrant communities," Tamang added.

Furthermore, he also stressed the fact that being a border state, Sikkim prioritizes national security and takes a serious approach to its service towards the nation.

Chief Minister also extended his warm greetings to the people of Sikkim, especially to all the sisters and mothers on the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan including the army personnel who are rendering their service dedicatedly for the safety and security of the public. 

“As we celebrate this special day, let us also reflect on our collective responsibility to protect and uphold the values of unity, diversity, and brotherhood that are the cornerstone of our society. Just as a sister ties a Rakhi on her brother's wrist, signifying her trust and belief in his protection, let us all pledge to protect the harmony and prosperity of our state”, said the Chief Minister.