Chief Minister Shri Pawan Chamling meets PM Dr. Manmohan Singh-

 
Updates on rehabilitation works, requests for setting up of Disaster Management Institute

New Delhi, January 18: Chief Minister Shri Pawan Chamling updated the Prime Minister on the rehabilitation works being carried out and also requested for speedy release of fund under the National Disaster Relief Fund. Shri Chamling interacting with Dr Singh on January 17 morning at New Delhi.
    Relief and rehabilitation works for the 18/9 earthquake victims was discussed thoroughly between the two. On Mr Chamling’s request, Dr. Manmohan Singh assured immediate release of funds from the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF). PM also reiterated his commitment of providing Sikkim with Rs 1000 crore help package and promised that these funds will be released timely to the State Government. The Prime Minister also suggested that a study on soil and geo-technical aspects of the region be initiated immediately. Shri Chamling agreed to the demand and promised to approach the Natural Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The Chief Minister also requested the Prime Minister for setting up of a Natural Disaster Institute in the State to which the PM agreed and advised the State Government to approach NDMA for full support.
      Mr. Chamling apprised the PM in regard to the Income Tax issue of “left out persons”. Dr. Singh stated that the issue would be considered sympathetically and an amicable solution shall be found. The PM was also apprised on the condition of NH 31A and the tardy progress of work undertaken by the BRO. PM was of the opinion that in order to restore the roads efficiently, all possible alternate course of implementation should be evaluated and examined to ensure the improvement of roads all over the state.
     At the end of the meeting, CM complimented Dr. Singh for not only being a great leader to the country but for also being a great human being and a visionary statesman. Reciprocating the compliment, Dr. Singh also appreciated the leadership shown by Mr. Chamling in guiding his State to peace and prosperity. Lastly, the CM on behalf of the Sikkimese people extended an invitation to Dr. Singh to visit the State. Dr. Singh expressed his willingness and keenness to visit the State in near future.
     Earlier, the Chief Minister also called on the Union Finance Minister, Shri Pranab Mukherjee and apprised him about the post-earthquake activities in Sikkim and sought his help for speedy restoration of road in Sikkim being undertaken by the BRO.