THE OLD SETTLERS OF SIKKIM

CM returns from Delhi after finalising historical annual budget
Sanjay Agarwal

Ahluwalia finalises Rs 1,400 Cr Annul plan for Sikkim

10 March, Rangpo: Chief Minister Pawa Chamling today returned from New Delhi. It may be recalled that the CM was on five days official visit to New Delhi on finalising Annual Budget for the state. Cabinets, officials delegates of various departments, Labour Cell, Youth and Women Committee welcomed the CM. Chief Minister stressed that Sikkim has far accomplished its destiny started from 1994 when the tiny Himalayan state used to receive just Rs 192 Crore, today Sikkim receives Rs 1400 Crore budget is a big pride that Sikkim has bestowed its image nationally. The central government is extremely happy with the developmental activities going in the state, the transparency in the system and policy of SDF government was praised for, he said. The 11th Five Year plan will conclude in 11th March and from April 12th next five years plan will initiate for which the planning commission chairman has specially requested for presenting state’s suggestions and scopes for further betterment, he said. CM said that he has highlighted the Tax Exemption to the old settlers in the center. During his visit the CM met with several leaders and MP’s where he told have raised the issue of Direct Tax exemption. Talking about the hike in vehicle tax, he assured that it will be done within few days for the relaxation of vehicle tax. Installation of goddess Kali Mata and beautification works of Rangpo and Singtam is also underway and shall be accomplished soon he said. The mission of 100% poverty free state and bring a glorious self reliance within the state by constructing houses for the BPL would be a primary agenda as well as a major target for this year, said Chief Minister. The construction of houses for the deprived people of state will be monitored by the respective area MLA’s and committee formed for that special work, he said. It may have taken hundreds of years or so for the western countries to be fully developed but for our state has achieved more just within 16 years of SDF’s government. With SDF government’s at par policies the state has acquired more development than ever before. He added that the the provision of Rhenock and Nayabazaar development is on the way but due to proper coordination between the department things are not happening. In a very unfamiliar gesture Chief Minister announced that someone has sent him a SMS revealing that some employees of STNM are voilating the service rules and misaligning from their primary objectives which he shall soon deal with strongly.