Governor applauds the nation’s gallant soldiers on 63rd Republic Day at Paljor Stadium

FOUR BOOKS BY DIFFERENT DEPTTS RELEASED, SSDMA WEBSITE ALSO LAUNCHED 
ANUSHA GURUNG
GANGTOK, 27 Jan: Governor BP Singh released four books published by different departments on the occasion of the 63rd Republic Day celebrations at Paljor Stadium yesterday.
‘Empowerment and Prosperity through Bio-Diversity Conservation in Sikkim’ published by the Forest department, ‘Sikkim towards Organic State by 2015’ by the Agriculture department, ‘Inventory and GIS Mapping of Landslides in North, East, West and South Sikkim’ and ‘Multi Hazards Risks Vulnerability Assessment of Gangtok Municipal Corporation’ by the Land Revenue & Disaster Management department were the books released.
The Governor also launched the website, www.ssdma.org of the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority on the occasion.
Earlier Mr Singh read out his Republic Day message after hoisting the National Flag. He also reviewed the parade and presented medals, awards and appreciation letter besides felicitating the World War II veterans of Sikkim.
 “In Sikkim, democracy has taken deep roots and the atmosphere is conducive for the overall wellbeing of the Sikkimese people. We have shouldered our responsibility in the most responsible manner and have consciously endeavoured to contribute towards national security and prosperity. The State enjoys unparalleled peace, progress and prosperity. As the State marches towards modernity, we continue to put emphasis on preservation of our rich culture and heritage.  
I convey my warm greetings to the gallant soldiers and members of the armed forces and the para-military forces who guard our borders. These brave men serve the nation in the most harsh and hostile conditions. I would like to place on record a deep sense of gratitude to the member of our security forces who made the supreme sacrifice to maintain security and integrity of the nation.” said the Governor of Sikkim, Balmiki Prasad Singh while addressing the 63rd Republic day celebration today at Paljor Stadium after hoisting the national flag.
World War II veterans from Sikkim were also felicitated on the day. The surviving veterans who could make it to the Republic Day event were Garjaman Rai [91yrs], Padam Singh Gurung [99 yrs], Ravi Lal Gurung [89yrs], Gyampa Namgyal Kazi [91yrs], Amar Singh Rai[99yrs] and Chandra Bdr Limboo [86yrs].
Other state and central government awards to government servants were also conferred on the occasion. [for details turn to Pg 2]
The Indian Army had put up an exhibit of army equipments and weapons at Paljor Stadium which was visited by the Governor and the Chief Minister. The Sikkim Police and Army bands also performed on the day. Various cultural programmes and a martial arts demonstration entertained the crowd which had gathered at the stadium to celebrate Republic Day.