Gyalshing, August 1 (IPR): Yuksam-Tashiding constituency-level 78th Independence Day Celebrations commenced with grandeur and enthusiasm, marked by a grand opening ceremony and football tournament today.
The celebration held at Thikoong Mensolong Government Senior Secondary School in Yuksam was graced by the highly revered Buddhist Spiritual Master, Venerable Tulku Serta Khyentse Rinpoche as the Chief guest. He was accompanied by Zilla Adakshya Gyalshing Ds Limboo, Mr. Yogen Syangden, SDM Yuksam, Mr. Pema G. Bhutia, JD-Education, Mr. Ongdi Sherpa, BDO Yuksam, Mr Mohan Gurung former minister, Ms Dichen Wangchuk Denzongpa former panchayat president, and various school heads, staff, line department officials and local gentry.
Mr Ds Limboo Zilla Adakshya Gyalshing, also the patron of the IDCC, delivered the welcome address. He highlighted the event’s theme, “Leave a Green Legacy,” emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation and the initiative to minimize plastic use. The IDCC Yuksam-Tashiding is committed to celebrating the occasion with eco-friendly practices, using sustainable products throughout the event.
Following the hoisting of the IDCC flag, the Chief guest officially declared the 15-day-long Independence Day celebration open.
Various government departments set up stalls to inform the public about government’s welfare schemes and facilities. Additionally, the Yuksam Primary Health and Wellness Centre offered medical services, including blood tests, sugar tests, blood pressure check-ups, NCD screenings, and helpdesks for PMJAY and AABA cards.
The football tournament is held in the loving memory of Late Pema Wangchuk Denzongpa. Known for his contributions to the society, Yap Phuchung’s legacy is celebrated through this sporting event that brings together teams from across the state.
The other highlights of the opening ceremony included a tug-of-war competition for women and cultural performances featuring unity dances, patriotic songs, and cultural dances by students of the government and private schools of the Yuksam Subdivision.
The inaugural day’s football matches saw Khyontey KFC defeating Yuksam school staff 2-0 and Friends Forever Sporting Club triumphing over Tingting-Dosthang FC with a score of 5-1.
The independence day celebration committee’s eco-friendly initiatives are evident throughout the event, with a significant reduction in plastic use. The committee has ensured that all decorations, and other materials used are biodegradable and recyclable.
Report from DIO Gyalshing.
