4-day Dikchu Maghe Mela begins

MANGAN, 13 Jan: The Tumin-Lingee MLA, Chief Whip Ugen T Gyatso Bhutia, inaugurated the four-day long Dikchu Maghe Mela here at Dikchu New Market, North Sikkim today. He was accompanied by the DC North, TN Kazi and CMO District Hospital Mangan, Dr KT Lepcha as special guests to the inaugural function.
The Maghe Mela here is being organized by the Dikchu Youth Welfare Association with the main motive to keep the traditions alive with special attractions like a cultural extravaganza, traditional sports & games, local organic products, ethnic food stalls and other such attractions.
The inaugural function began with a welcome address by General Secretary DYWA, Chung Chung Tongden Lepcha who highlighted about the history of Dikchu Mela and its significance to the area. He also highlighted the demand of the local community for a playground at Dikchu.
The DC North, in his address, appreciated the organizing committee for conducting the traditional Mela and informed that it should be continued in order to preserve our traditions and for this he is ready to extend his support.
While addressing the gathering, the chief guest Mr Bhutia urged the people to analyze and decide for themselves the development brought about by the ruling government. On the special occasion, he encouraged people to take time out for indulging in traditional events.
While responding to the demand placed by the General Secretary DYWA, the MLA informed that the demand for the community ground had already been forwarded to the concerned department and further assured that it would be fulfilled as soon as possible.
The chief guest and guests also visited the stalls set up by the different SHGs and NGOs.  A colorful cultural programme was also presented by the women SHG of Lower Dzongu, Dhan Naach from Mangshilla, Gurung Dance from All Sikkim Gurung Tamu Association, Rai Dance from Sreejana club Marchak and Nepali Dance from the host club.
The function was also attended by BDO Tintek, Tenzing Dorjee Denzongpa, SDPO Mangan, DIO IPR North, Sonam Chopel Bhutia, President Mangan Nagar Panchayat, Karma Jigdel Bhutia, Councilor Pappu Kumar Malu, MO Dikchu PHC, Dr. Mohan Thapa, Zilla member Saraswati Regmi, Zilla member Thingchim-Mangshilla, Zomin Limboo, Panchayat president Rakdong-Tintek, Ganden Lepcha, Panchayats members of different wards, officials of various departments, NGO representatives and the general public.
The function concluded with the vote of thanks by Sports Secretary DYWA, Jigmee Tongden Lepcha.