Sikkim Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang laid the foundation stone for the Holistic Institute of Ayurveda and Wellness Centre at Lungchok in Pakyong District today.

The programme was organised by the Department of AYUSH, Government of Sikkim, marking a significant step towards strengthening AYUSH infrastructure and promoting holistic healthcare in the State.

The Chief Minister unveiled the project plaque and performed Bhumi Puja for the successful construction and completion of the project. A plantation of medicinal plants was also undertaken at the site by the Chief Minister and other dignitaries. A health camp and mobile village clinic were set up at the venue, providing healthcare services to participants.

The occasion was attended by Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, Advisors, Zilla Adhyaksha and Zilla Upadhyaksha, Pakyong District, Mayor, Chairpersons from various departments, Heads of Offices, District Collector, Pakyong, Superintendent of Police, Pakyong District, officials from AYUSH and various departments, zilla and panchayat members and members of the public.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang congratulated the people of Chujachen constituency on the establishment of the institute and acknowledged the efforts of the organising department and stakeholders.

He said that beyond strengthening traditional healthcare, the project will promote wellness tourism and reflects the State Government's commitment to preventive healthcare and public well-being. He noted that the natural surroundings of Lungchok provide an ideal environment for healing and relaxation.

Highlighting the employment potential of the proposed centre, he urged the concerned authorities to provide appropriate training for local youth and stressed the need to develop local human resources to support its operations and transform it into a prominent wellness destination. He called upon the local community, officials and stakeholders to work collectively for the success of the project.

The Chief Minister also highlighted developmental initiatives of the Government in health, education and infrastructure, and emphasised the importance of road connectivity, maintenance and improvement for local development and tourism in Chujachen constituency.

Touching upon welfare measures, he informed about initiatives for government employees, underprivileged sections, ASHA workers and Anganwadi workers. Referring to Sikkim Aama Sashaktikaran Yojana, he noted the recent distribution of assistance and said the Government intends to extend its coverage. He informed that allotments under Sikkim Garib Awas Yojana would be handed over to beneficiaries soon, with priority to urgent cases.

He also spoke on revenue and capital expenditure, effective financial management and the importance of work culture, punctuality, time management and dedication to duty. Referring to the concept of dignity of labour, he called for a system that recognises and respects all forms of work. He further informed that he would undertake three-day visits to each constituency under the Jan Bhetghat programme to interact with the public.

Minister for Agriculture, Horticulture, AH&VS and Fisheries Department cum MLA Chujachen, Shri Puran Kumar Gurung thanked the State Government for selecting Chujachen and highlighted ongoing developmental works in the constituency.

Minister for Health and Family Welfare, AYUSH and Culture Department, Shri G T Dhungel spoke on the potential of Ayurveda and traditional healing and the suitability of Lungchok for the wellness centre.

Secretary, Department of AYUSH, Smt. Suchitra Rasaily highlighted the Department's efforts to expand AYUSH services and said the centre would contribute to well-being, research and wellness tourism in line with Viksit Bharat 2047.

Chief Engineer, Shri Sanjay Singh presented the technical report, informing that the 50-acre project comprises a Wellness Centre and a Happiness Centre with nature-based recreational spaces, walking trails, cottages and restoration of water bodies, aligned with the vision of Sunaulo, Samriddha ani Samartha Sikkim.

Co-founder and CEO of Habuild Health Tech Pvt. Ltd., Shri Saurabh Bothra emphasised consistency in yoga and led the "Happy and Healthy" pledge.

During the ceremony, an MoU between the Department of AYUSH and Habuild Health Tech Pvt. Ltd. was signed, and a Certificate of Appreciation was presented to the Chief Minister. A video on Yoga Tonic initiative, video presentations of the proposed complex and AYUSH services, and a briefing by the Engineering Cell, Department of AYUSH on the project design were also held.

*******

MC/SK

(Release ID: 2324085) Visitor Counter : 27