Commemorative Stamp Released to Mark 50 Years of Sikkim’s Statehood

29.05.25: On the momentous occasion of the 50th anniversary of Sikkim’s statehood, a special commemorative postage stamp and First Day Cover were jointly released by the Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim and the Hon’ble Chief Minister, in the presence of the Hon'ble Prime Minister (virtually).

The Sikkim Philatelic Society expresses great pride and excitement over this historic philatelic achievement. This is the first postage stamp officially released in Sikkim. The cancellation on the First Day Cover is of the Legislative Assembly. 

Presenting the first look of the postage stamp unveiled today, the beautifully crafted ₹5.00 stamp—issued by India Post—features the map of Sikkim and artistically showcases the state's rich cultural heritage, vibrant agriculture, and stunning natural beauty.

Sikkim Statehood Day: A Rare Document That Changed History

I came across this fascinating document on social media, shared by the National Archives of India, a rare glimpse into a pivotal moment in Sikkim's history.

On 10th April 1975, the Sikkim Assembly unanimously adopted a historic Resolution that changed the course of the state's future. The Resolution condemned the Chogyal’s attempts to restore autocratic rule, stating these actions violated the May 8, 1973, Agreement and stood against the democratic will of the people.

In a powerful declaration, the Assembly stated: “The institution of the Chogyal is hereby abolished and Sikkim shall henceforth be a constituent unit of India, enjoying a democratic and fully responsible Government.”

This marked the beginning of a new chapter, with Sikkim becoming the 22nd state of the Indian Union.

Source: Ministry of Home Affairs, Sikkim Cell, 1975, File No. 11011/2/75-Sikkim-Part II

Sikkim Government Allows Self-Attestation for Most Documents

 

In a citizen-friendly move to simplify administrative procedures, the Government of Sikkim, through a notification dated 6th August 2018 (No. 52/Home/2018), has allowed self-attestation of documents for most purposes. Issued by the Home Department and published in the Gazette on 11th August 2018, this notification aligns with the 12th report of the Second Administrative Reforms Commission, emphasising "Citizen Centric Administration – The Heart of Governance."

Applicants can now submit self-attested copies of documents for admission in educational institutions and for employment in government departments, provided they can read and understand the documents. However, documents like the Sikkim Subject Certificate, Certificate of Identification, Residential Certificate, and Land Records still require verification by designated magistrates or gazetted officers from the Land Revenue and Disaster Management Department.

The move is expected to reduce the burden on citizens and streamline government services while still requiring original documents at the final stage. Under the IPC, false attestations will be treated as forgery.

The notification was issued by S.C. Gupta, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Government of Sikkim.

Chogyal Thutob Namgyal in UPU 1 Anna Postcard

Chogyal Thutob Namgyal in UPU 1 Anna Postcard

 

Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal press photograph (1980)

 Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal press photograph (1980)