Gyalshing, January 8 2023 : A newly constructed ‘Ugen Choling Monastery’ at Sakyong Areethang under Gyalshing District was inaugurated by the Minister for RDD, Ecclesiastical & Co-operative Department Ven. Sonam Lama in the gracious presence of Minister-cum-Area MLA Bhim Hang Subba.
A day-long prayer offering ceremony and other sacred practices were performed in the holy presence of His Eminence Gonja Rinpoche.
Also gracing the auspicious inaugural ceremony were R. S. Bhutia, Advisor (Ecclesiastical Department), Hari Narayan Subedi, Chairman (PHE Department), Yishey D. Yongda, District Collector (Gyalshing),ADC/Development (Gyalshing), ACE(Power), SE(Power), BDO(Gyalshing), BDO(Chongrang), various Monastery heads, officials, public and devotees at large.
While addressing the congregation, the Minster RDD extended New Year wishes and also congratulated the newly elected Panchayats and requested them to work cordially with the departments for the betterment and benefit of the people. He applauded the organizing committee, land donors and every individual who participated by giving their both small and big contribution in building the monastery since day one. He also informed that under the banner ‘Governance at the doorstep’ the HCM of Sikkim Prem Sing Tamang has initiated to attend the people of the state and take their grievances individually in each constituency. He also mentioned that under the Ministry of Ecclesiastical, the development of various religious infrastructure in the state has been enhanced. By taking the demand into his consideration, the Minister assured to provide the required financial support by releasing the funds into two phases for the completion of the remaining work of the monastery. He also directed the District Collector to provide adequate support from the district level as well. Lastly, he mentioned that all religions have been valued, respected and prioritised in Sikkim and requested all individuals from various religious groups to maintain harmony, peace and prosperity in the state.
The Minister-cum- Area MLA in his address said that it is a true blessings and privilege to be a part of this momentous day since it’s laying of foundation stone. The Minister reiterated that the state government is committed towards the progress of the state and its people. He extended his gratitude towards the guidance and contribution of each individual for making this revered inauguration of the monastery a reality.
The felicitation to the land donors namely, Lt. Chumchi Kazi & Family and T. Kalden(Retr. CCF) was done by the organising committee towards their noble contribution. Similarly 15 individuals were also felicitated for their generous contribution.
Earlier, Minister RDD, Minister PHED along with other dignitaries offered prayers and lighted butter lamps on the altar.
