On March 4th, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at celebrating and nurturing the state’s vibrant artistic community during the Sikkim Kalakar Bharosa Sammelan in Gangtok. As a tribute to the invaluable contributions of artists to Sikkim’s cultural landscape, Chief Minister Tamang declared March 4th as the annual observance of ‘Sikkim Kalakar Bharosa Sammelan’. This event will serve as a platform to recognize artistic achievements and foster a sense of camaraderie among artists.
Expressing deep admiration for the dedication and sacrifices made by artists, Tamang emphasized the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting their talents. He acknowledged the challenges faced by artists and assured the establishment of a mechanism to address their grievances and provide necessary support. During the inaugural event, Chief Minister Tamang announced several key initiatives, including the establishment of the Tarundeep Rai Archery Academy in honor of renowned archer Tarundeep Rai. These initiatives underscore the government’s dedication to fostering a thriving artistic community in Sikkim.
In a bid to provide financial assistance to artists, the government pledged an annual grant of Rs. 5 lakh to various artistic organizations across the state. Additionally, a dedicated committee will be formed to address the concerns raised by artists, facilitating better communication and collaboration between artists and the government. Recognizing the need for dedicated spaces for artistic expression, the government plans to construct “Kalakar Ghar” in each district, offering local artists studios and exhibition spaces. Furthermore, a central “Kalakar Bhawan” will be established in Gangtok, serving as a focal point for artistic activities and collaboration.