The Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang graced the World Entrepreneurs’ Day, organised by Commerce and Industries Department with the theme “Together We Build”, as the Chief Guest here at Chintan Bhawan, today.
In his address, Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang, noted that this was the first-ever celebration of Entrepreneurs’ Day in the state. He highlighted key aspects of entrepreneurship, sharing insights on how to achieve success. He emphasised that aspiring entrepreneurs should actively explore opportunities, gain practical experience, and approach challenges with determination and perseverance.
He emphasised the vast opportunities available in entrepreneurship, encouraging the youth to explore this field where growth potential not only drives innovation and economic progress but also offers avenues for self-reliance and long-term sustainability.
Urging young individuals to seize these opportunities, he called upon them to make the most of the various initiatives, schemes, and support systems provided by the Ministry and the State Government. He further stressed that with the right vision and determination, the youth could emerge as key drivers of change, contributing significantly to the development and prosperity of the state.
In his keynote address, Minister for Commerce & Industries and Tourism & Civil Aviation Departments, Mr T T Bhutia, expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for his support and acknowledged the vital contributions of entrepreneurs to the state’s growth and development. He emphasised that the programme aimed to honour their innovative ideas and efforts, which not only drive economic progress but also generate significant employment opportunities.
He described upcoming entrepreneurs as change makers, urging society to support their talent and dedication. He also underscored the Chief Minister’s vision of One Family, One Entrepreneur and spoke about the department’s initiatives to further promote entrepreneurship across the state.
Highlighting the immense potential of the youth, he praised several entrepreneurs from Sikkim who have achieved notable success at both national and international levels, serving as an inspiration for others to follow.
In her welcome address, Secretary of Commerce and Industries Department, Ms Karma D Youtso, mentioned that the programme was being organised for the first time in the state and expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for fostering a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem. She highlighted One Family, One Entrepreneur scheme introduced by the state government and noted that the number of entrepreneurs has grown to 17,000 across Sikkim.
She also highlighted products that have reached national and international markets, emphasised the One Family, One Product initiative, and elaborated on the Skill Youth Start-up schemes. Furthermore, she spoke about the Mukhyamantri Yuva Udhyamsheelta Vikash Yojna and outlined various departmental efforts aligned with the Chief Minister’s vision of a Sunaulo, Samriddha, ani Samarth Sikkim
President, SEED Cell, Mr Raj Lama, in his address, highlighted about the inception and objectives of the SEED Cell, explaining its role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurial growth in the state. He outlined how the Cell functions as a platform to guide, mentor, and support budding entrepreneurs, ensuring access to resources and opportunities.
He expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for his support, which has been instrumental in shaping the Cell’s initiatives. He also highlighted significant milestones achieved since its establishment.
This was followed by the felicitation of Outstanding Entrepreneurs, wherein Ms Beeju Pokhrel and Ms Sangay Palden Bhutia were awarded with ₹50,000/- each, and Promising Entrepreneur, Ms Graceme Rai, received an award of ₹25,000/-.
Thereafter, the Chief Minister virtually inaugurated the Flatted Factory at Deorali, the District Industries Centre at Pakyong, and the Sikkim Entrepreneur Connect Portal.
The SEED Cell felicitated the Chief Minister in recognition of his support and encouragement for entrepreneurship in the state.
Subsequently, a video showcasing the success stories of beneficiaries under the Chief Minister’s Discretionary Grant (CMDG) was presented, followed by the launch of the Mukhyamantri Yuva Udhyamsheelta Vikash Yojna (MYUVY).
The introduction of MYUVY was delivered by Principal Secretary CMO, Mr S D Dhakal.
This was followed by the distribution of cheques to the beneficiaries of MYUVY, CMDG, and to students under the Chief Minister’s Educational Assistance Scheme.
Earlier, the Chief Minister visited the stalls showcased by exhibitors.
Also present were Speaker Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, Deputy Mayor, Zilla Panchayats, Advisors, Chairpersons, OSDs, entrepreneurs from the state and other dignitaries.
The Vote of Thanks was proposed by Director MSME, Mr M Ravi Kumar.
Report from DIO-Gangtok
