New Delhi, Feb 5 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed heartfelt birthday wishes to Prem Singh Tamang Golay, the Chief Minister of Sikkim, expressing his prayers for the leader’s long and healthy life dedicated to the service of the people.

In a post on the social media platform X, PM Modi stated, “Birthday greetings to Sikkim CM Shri Prem Singh Tamang Golay Ji. I am praying for his long and healthy life in the service of the people.”

Born on February 5, 1968, in Singling, West Sikkim, into a modest farming family, Tamang's upbringing in a rural environment allowed him to experience the essence of village life — early mornings in the fields, fulfilling community duties, and the serene dignity of simplicity that shaped his fundamental worldview.

After finishing his education at Darjeeling Government College, Tamang opted for a humble path instead of an urban career, returning to his roots as a government schoolteacher. Those who interacted with him during this time recall him as soft-spoken and devoted, firmly believing that education was vital for empowering the youth of Sikkim.

Nonetheless, his ambition to aid the community transcended the confines of the classroom. Observing the daily challenges of ordinary citizens, such as limited opportunities, inadequate infrastructure, and unresponsive governance, he understood that genuine change could only be achieved through active political involvement.

In the 1990s, Tamang entered politics and became involved with the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), which was prevalent in the state's political arena at that time. His hard work and strong ties with grassroots communities propelled him into popularity. However, his independent vision often clashed with the party’s leadership.

In 2013, he departed from the SDF and established the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM). Initially perceived as a rebel with little chance of disrupting the established power structure, Golay's genuineness and direct engagement with rural voters gradually transformed skepticism into substantial support.

His public rallies evolved beyond mere political events, often resembling community gatherings, where he communicated in a straightforward manner that resonated with the populace.

In 2019, the SKM ended the SDF’s 25-year reign in Sikkim, leading to Prem Singh Tamang’s inauguration as the sixth Chief Minister of the state. For many, this marked the inception of a new era in Sikkim's political landscape.

If 2019 was a significant milestone for the SKM, 2024 proved to be an even more prominent triumph. Capitalizing on a wave of public confidence, the SKM achieved a remarkable victory in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly elections, winning 31 out of 32 seats, a rare accomplishment for regional leaders in India.

In February 2025, Prem Singh Tamang’s acclaim reached a national level. The India Today–CVoter Mood of the Nation survey recognized him as the most beloved chief minister among smaller states, boasting an impressive approval rating of 62.1 percent in Sikkim.

This achievement established him as not only the leading figure in the North-East and Himalayan regions but also the highest-rated Chief Minister in his state over time.