DM West issues Summons to pay up by 18 Nov

OR ELSE 5 MOBILE TOWERS TO BE SHUT DOWN
GANGTOK, 10 Nov: Following the move of a group of local youth in West Sikkim to sit in an indefinite hunger strike over not payment of their dues amounting to Rs.5 lakhs by a mobile tower company (earlier reported in NOW!) the DC West, S Pradhan has issued an ultimatum to the responsible company to pay up by 18 November or face shut down of its towers.

CM writes to PM to allow 17th Karmapa to visit Sikkim

GANGTOK, 10 Nov: The Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling, as per his promise to the monk community of the state, as written to the Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh seeking the central government’s nod to permit the 17th Karmapa, Orgyen Trinley Dorjee, to visit Sikkim.

Crop production goes to waste around Kitam Bird Sanctuary with increased ravages of wild animals

FARMERS LOSE ENTIRE CROPS AND DEPARTMENT HAS INADEQUATE FUNDS TO COMPENSATE THEM
PURAN TAMANG
NAMCHI,10 Nov: The people residing in the fringe areas of Kitam Bird Sanctuary in South Sikkim are frustrated with the trespasses of wild boar into their fields resulting in the destruction of their crops and vegetables; at the same time they are also frustrated at the disinterest of the concerned department in this particular issue.

Government spells out code of business of Municipalities

GANGTOK, 10 Nov: With the formation of the Gangtok municipality the government has now come out with the rules governing the conduct of business called the Sikkim Municipalities commencement  (Conduct of Business) Rules, 2011 which elaborate on the procedures to be followed by the councilors during meetings, code of conduct of councilors during meetings, question hour and related matters.

6520 capsules of SP and more confiscated by Melli police

GANGTOK, 10 Nov: The Melli police has confiscated a huge cache of contraband substances and in the process has arrested one person. One person is, however, absconding.

Sikhs celebrate Gurpurab in Gangtok

GANGTOK, 10 Nov: The Sikh community of Gangtok celebrated Guru Nanak Jayanti here at the Gurdwara Sahib situated near the SNOD petrol pump in Deorali today. Gurpurab , also known as Guru Nanak’s Birthday, is the birthday of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak, and one of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism.

Bhupen Hazarika in Sikkim – Teesta Bagchhau kina?

Rajiva Shanker Shresta
While the sea of humanity was pouring in joining the funeral procession of the legendary bard BhupenHazarika (8 Sep 1926 – 5 Nov 2011) in Guwahati on 9 November morning people to bid adieuwith tearful eyes to see him for the last time perched on the roof and tree tops.

Tank burst in Tinek floods area

GANGTOK, 10 Nov: The fury with which rain and storm overtook Tinek on the night of 26 Oct caused the Tinek Water Tank to swell and ultimately give way.

SICB and NELPS ink MoU to promote livelihood opportunities

GANGTOK, 10 Nov: A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the North East Livelihood Promotion Society (NELPS), Ministry of DoNER and State Institute of Capacity Building (SICB), Karfectar, South Sikkim was executed today at Karfectar. 

An Appeal by the Tibetan Associations in Sikkim

Eleven Tibetans have set fire to themselves in eastern Tibet since March. Six have died. The Chinese government describes them as “terrorists in disguise”.

Sikkim’s EMRS thrashes at North East Basket ball tourney

GANGTOK, 10 Nov: Eklavya Model Residential School, Gangyap thrashed Maria Public School, Narangi 92 -0  in the quarter-final match played in the CBSE Cup [Cluster I] North East Region Basketball Tournament 2011-12 in Guwahati today.

Free education for deprived children by Muyal Liang Trust

GANGTOK, 10 Nov [IPR]: The Muyal Liang Trust (MLT) is providing education to 250 deprived children of all the four districts of Sikkim free of all costs.

Chief Minister's Relief Fund

In continuation to the earlier releases on the fund received as contribution towards Chief Minister’s Relief Fund the following are the contribution received till 9th November 2011.

North eastern & Sikkim participants benefit from tourism training by TAAS

SAGAR CHHETRI
GANGTOK, 10 Nov: A total of thirty participants from different north-eastern states have completed a month-long a tour, trekking and specialised guide training course here in the state.

South MPCS come together for earthquake victims

NAMCHI, 10 Nov: Multi Purpose Co-operative Societies of South Sikkim have joined hands to help the earthquake victims of the18 September tremor.

PYKKA sports at Damthang

NAMCHI, 10 Nov: PYKKA Sports for 16 Mamley Damthang Territorial constituency South Sikkim was held on 07 and 08 November here at Mamley JHS play ground. A total of 15 wards of the three GPUs of the Territorial Constituency took part in these sports.

ASDLF mourns the death of Majhitar accident victim

GANGTOK, 10 Nov: All Sikkim Democratic Labour Front in a meeting convened today under the chairmanship of its vice-president, BM Ramudamu observed two minutes silence to mourn the death of Sarika Rai who was crushed under a truck yesterday at Majhitar.  

State Level Painting Competition by NHPC
GANGTOK, 10 Nov: Teesta-V Power Station, NHPC Limited, which is the Nodal Agent for the State of Sikkim for conducting the Painting Competition on Energy Conservation-2011 at School, State and National Levels is going to organize its State Level painting competition on Energy Conservation on 14 November, 2011 (Children's Day). The competition will be held at Janta Bhawan, Gangtok, East Sikkim from 10:00 AM onwards.

Sangitmaya Sri Mad Bhagwat Gita Path for Peace and tranquility

MANGAN, 10 Nov: The Sangitmaya Sri Mad Bhagwat Katha, Gyan Yagya path, which had been underway at Mangan Bazaar, North District since 04 Nov concluded today.

Yet another Committee established to recommend on Government vehicle allotment policy

MISUSE OF GOVERNMENT VEHICLES TO BE REPORTED
GANGTOK, 09 Nov: A couple of years ago the state government had issued a directive which banned the purchase of new vehicles by the departments.

Govt Employee promotions linked to clearance of utility bills and taxes

GANGTOK, 09 Nov: All government employees are now required to produce clearances of utility bills and taxes at the time of their promotion.

Jagatguru Sankaracharya delivers sermon at Namchi

NAMCHI, 09 Nov: Jagatguru Sankaracharya Swami Swarupananda Saraswati today delivered his sermon to devotees from all over the state. After the inauguration of the Siddheswara Dham at Solophok yesterday Jagatguru Sankaracharya today addressed the devotees here at Bhaichung Stadium, Namchi.

SSLSA observes National Legal Services Day

AMEET OBEROIGANGTOK, 09 Nov: The Sikkim State Legal Services Authority [SSLSA] observed the National Legal Services Day at the conference hall of the High Court of Sikkim today.

Truck mows down woman at Majhitar

SINGTAM, 09 Nov: A 24-year-old woman was killed on the spot when she was run over by a truck at Majhitar on National Highway 31A this morning.

17 year old hangs self

GANGTOK, 09 Nov: Another minor has committed suicide this time at Kaluk, West Sikkim.

One arrested for stealing BSNL cables

GANGTOK, 09 Nov:The Singtam police has arrested one person on charges of stealing BSNL cable lines. The theft came to light when the BSNL lineman was on an inspection of the faulty cable lines below Chisopani.

Statement by the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje on the self immolation by Tibetans for freedom

Since March this year 11 brave Tibetans have set themselves on fire while calling for freedom in Tibet and the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to his homeland.  These desperate acts, carried out by people with pure motivation, are a cry against the injustice and repression under which they live. The situation is unbearably difficult, but in difficult situations we need greater courage and determination.

Orchid expert, Mohan Pradhan, to attend the 20th World Orchid Conference at Singapore

GANGTOK, 09 Nov: Orchid expert and author, Mohan Pradhan of Development Area, Gangtok is leaving for Singapore to attend the 20th World Orchid Conference scheduled to be held from 12-17 Nov, informs a press release. 

SHRP welcomes umbrella organization of different communities for tribal status

GANGTOK, 09 Nov: Sikkim Himali Rajya Parisad Party has welcomed and supported the move of different community organizations to come under one banner and demand the tribal status for left out communities.

Team sent on an exposure trip on Bamboo expresses gratitude

SINGTAM, 09 Nov: A 23-member team from Sikkim which was sent on an exposure trip on the use of bamboo to Assam and Nagaland in September has expressed their gratitude to the Sikkim government for the opportunity.

All India Project Coordinator visits CAEPHT centre

GANGTOK, 09 Nov: Project Coordinator, All India Coordinated Research Project on Renewable Energy Sources (AICRP-RES), Dr KC Pandey, visited the CAEPHT centre of the AICRP on RES, informs a press release.

ATMA managing committee meets

GANGTOK, 09 Nov: The managing committee of the Agriculture Technology and Management Agency, FS&ADD East District conducted a meeting on 08 November.

Free health camp by Lanco Foundation

RANGPO, 09 Nov: Lanco Foundation, which is the public relations wing of the Lanco Teesta Hydel Power Project organized a day long free health check up camp today at Maneydanda gram panchayat unit falling under Rateypani Namthang constituency, South Sikkim.

ATMA organizes training on increasing mustard productivity

GANGTOK, 09 Nov: ATMA organised a training programme on ‘Area Expansion, Increasing Productivity and Marketing of Mustard’ at Nazitam today, informs a press release.

Swami Swarupananda inaugurates Siddhesvara Dham amid rituals and ceremonies

PURAN TAMANG
NAMCHI, 08 Nov: The much awaited Siddhesvara Dham at Solophok, Namchi, South Sikkim was finally inaugurated today by the hands of Sri Jagadguru Sankaracharya Swami Swarupananda Saraswati. Swami Swarupananda arrived at Solophok Char Dham Guest House on the evening of 07 November.

State government amends Persons with Disabilities Rules, 2001

GANGTOK, 08 Nov: The state government effected some amendments in the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and   Full Participation) Rules, 2001, with the amended section connected with application of Disability Certificate by those who are disability and on the mode of appointment of the State Commissioner of Persons with Disabilities and procedures to be followed by him.

International Conference on Climate Change begins

SAGAR CHHETRIGANGTOK, 08 Nov: The 9th international conference on’ Climate Change & Sustainability in the Mountain Areas: Scope and Challenges for Regional Cooperation and Integration’ began today at Chintan Bhawan.

9th Biennial Workshop on Application of Plastics in Agriculture concludes

GANGTOK, 08 Nov: The 9th biennial workshop on ‘Application of Plastics in Agriculture’ that started on 04 November concluded yesterday at College of Agricultural Engineering and Post Harvest Technical (CAEPHT)-Central University (CAU), Ranipool, Gangtok, informs a press release.

Labourer commits suicide

GANGTOK, 08 Nov: A 38-year-old man committed suicide by hanging here in East Sikkim yesterday.

Tumin Lingee MLA inspects on progress of relief measures

MANGAN, 07 Nov:  Area MLA Tumin-Lingee constituency cum Chief Whip Ugen T Gyatso Bhutia visited Lower Kambal area under 16 Tumin-Lingee constituency as a follow-up visit to check on relief measures carried out in the area.

Two women arrested for drug peddling

GANGTOK, 08 Nov: Singtam Police arrested two women on 03 Nov at around 4 pm for being in possession of contraband substances.

AAI to conduct free health camp at Pakyong

GANGTOK, 08 Nov: Airports Authority of India in collaboration with Sikkim Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences is organizing the 6th free Health check-up camp on 12 November at Pakyong, PHC from 9 AM to 4 PM, informs a press release.

Trees cut down at Singtam for public safety

GANGTOK, 08 Nov: In view of public safety, a team from the Forest Department today brought down two mango trees in Singtam which were posing a threat to the general public.
The team was assisted by the JE, Power Department, Dilip Cintury along with some linemen. The RO, Singtam, Manjit Kharel, BO, Anuj Gurung, Singtam Police and large number of public were present at the site. [from NANDU DUTRAJ]
 

Singtam Police arrest one for abduction

GANGTOK, 08 Nov: Singtam Police arrested one Bhojraj Basnet on 04 November for allegedly abducting 15-year-old Pramila (name changed) who had been missing since 19 October.

Lanco Foundation organizes free screening camp for the differently-abled

GANGTOK, 08 Nov: Lanco Foundation organised a free screening camp for differently-abled persons at Panchayat Bhawan, Namthang in South Sikkim.

Srimad Bhagat Mahayajna performed at Tumin

MANGAN, 08 Nov:  “Srimad Bhagat Mahayajna” along with Vedpath and Saptasati path was held here today at Omkareshwar Shiv Mandir, Lower Tumin in East Sikkim.  The yajna was carried out by 17 purohits and pandits of Tumin and Samdong area. 

People should be watchful of building collapse – SIR report

EARTHQUAKE MONITORING STATION INAUGURATED AT MARCHAK
SAGAR CHHETRI

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: The Minister for Science and Technology and Climate Change, Forest and Tourism Department Bhim Dhungel inaugurated the Earthquake Monitoring Station at Science Centre, Marchak today.

DoP had earlier submitted that 9823 temporary employees are under the State to HC

SO WHY THE CONFUSION TODAY?
GANGTOK, 07 Nov: While the state employee census is underway on the direction of the Central government through the 13th Finance Commission that the state conduct a state employee census to ascertain the exact number of persons on the payroll of the state exchequer the High Court of Sikkim had earlier sought from the government the number of temporary employees working with the government to which the state, it was observed, had no satisfactory answer.

Chardham at Solophok to open today

NAMCHI, 07 Nov: Sikkim's ambitious tourism infrastructure project ‘Siddeshwar Dham’ 'Chardham' at Solophok, Namchi is scheduled to be inaugurated on 08 Nov.

Wild animals encroach upon human territory in the Kitam Bird Sanctuary area

AFFECTED FARMERS COMMITTEE FORMED TO ADDRESS CONCERNS
NAMCHI, 07 Nov: The farmers residing in the areas adjacent to the Kitam Bird Sanctuary met at Kitam haat-shed yesterday to discuss the damages caused in the area due to the intrusion of wild animals in the area.

HRDD to lead state celebrations for the first ever National Education Day

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: Sikkim is preparing to celebrate the first ever National Education Day along with the rest of the country on 11 November.

Gangtok celebrates Bakr-Eid

People pray at the Anjuman Islamiya [Jamma Masjid], a mosque on the eve of the Eid ul-Adha festival in Gangtok. Muslims observe the day with a sacrificial slaughter of sheep, goats, cows or camels to mark Prophet Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail on God's command.

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: Muslims in Gangtok celebrated Eid-ul-Zuha today with gaiety and the spirit of sacrifice. Around ten to twenty goats and sheep were sacrificed on the occasion.

Marchak residents raise concerns over Industrial Growth Centre

RAISE HEALTH CONCERNS OVER PLASTIC PRODUCTION AND OTHER DISAPPOINTMENTS
GANGTOK, 07 Nov: The locals of Marchak, 8th Mile, Ranipool, extending their gratitude towards the Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling for having established the Industrial Growth Centre in the area have however expressed their doubts on the kind of activities this Centre is carrying out and have appealed to the government to scrap the idea of developing the area as an Industrial Growth Centre.

Namchi burglar nabbed by Sadar police

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: Sadar Police has arrested the burglar who stole 20 tolas of gold from a Namchi resident at Namchi itself. The crime was committed on 14 September.

Theft in Lachung

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: A case of theft has been registered against unknown persons on 06 November at the Lachung Police Station.

Another suicide

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: A 22-year-old youth, resident of Hospital Road, Ravangla committed suicide by hanging on 06 November.
The youth was alone in his home and in the evening of 05 November at about 8 p.m. after having his evening meal had gone out. The next morning, on 06 November, the body of the deceased was seen hanging from a tree near the cowshed.

EMRS basket ball team leaves for Guwahati

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: The 12 member basketball team of Eklavya Model Residential School, Gangtok has left for Guwahati for the CBSE Regional (North East) Basketball tournament 2011-12.

Bakr-Id at Singtam

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: The Muslim community of Singtam both Sunni and Braily sects observed Bakr-Id today. While the Sunni Muslims observed the day by offering Namaaz at the Masjid the Braily sect offered Namaaz at the SNT complex and conducted a discourse.
The celebration will continue for the next three days, informed senior citizens from the community.  [from NANDU DUTRAJ]

Dentam Block observes Swachhata Utsav on 03 Nov

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: The six Gram Panchayats under Dentam Block observed Swachhata Utsav from 02 Oct-04 Nov which concluded with the simultaneous cleanliness and sanitation awareness programmes at Dentam Bazaar, Hee Bazzar and Uttarey Bazaar on 03 Nov, informs a press release.

Rabi campaign at Lower Dzongu

WANGCHUK BHUTIA
MANGAN, 07 NOV:  A total of 45 progressive farmers of Lum/Gor/Sangtok GPU of Lower Dzongu were provided with a day long training on Rabi Campaign; the programme was held here at Pheedang Lower Dzongu North Sikkm which was organized by Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) under the Food Security & Agriculture Development Department. 

Sikkim University organizes International conference on Climate Change in the Mountain areas

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: Sikkim University in collaboration with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) is going to organise an international conference on ‘Climate Change and Sustainability in the Mountain Areas: Scope and Challenges for Regional Cooperation and Integration’ from 08-09 November, 2011, informs a press release.

Bakr-Id begins at Rangpo

RANGPO, 07 Nov: The three-day Bakr-id festival of the Muslim community began from today after the Namaaz here at Rangpo.

Bhutia Kayrab Yargay Tshogpo conducts district-level meeting

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: West District Bhutia Kayrab Yargay Tshogpo, a literary association of Bhutia Language organised its district-level meeting at Kyongsa Girls Senior Secondary School, Gyalshing on 06 Nov, informs a press release.

Jagatguru Sankaracharya arrives at Namchi

NAMCHI, 07 Nov: Jagatguru Sankaracharya arrived at Chardham, Solophok this evening at around 5:45 pm from Siliguri. He was received by the Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling, his wife Tika Maya Chamling and cabinet colleagues.

Union Minister of State for Power Visits Teesta Low Dam Stage – III & IV Projects

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: Union Minister of State for Power,K.C. Venugopal visited Sikkim on 06 November. On his way to Sikkim, he visited Teesta Low Dam Stage-III and Stage-IV and inspected the on going construction works of NHPC at these projects.

Aquarium at Central Park Namchi refilled prior to the Chardham opening

NAMCHI, 07 Nov: The aquarium at the Central Park Namchi had been undergoing maintenance work for the past two months and is now once again filled with rare species of fish bringing back the charm of the Central Park.

Nehru Yuva Kendra spreads awareness in Vigilance Week

GANGTOK, 07 Nov: Nehru Yuva Kendra, Gangtok in collaboration with various youth clubs, SHGs and volunteers from National Youth Corps observed Vigilance Week from 31 Oct to 06 Nov at Perbing, Ranka, Luing, Dara Gaon and NKK Office, informs a press release issued by the District Youth Coordinator, NYK, Gangtok, Puran Chettri.

8 top ranking players to represent Sikkim at national meet

16TH STATE TT CHAMPIONSHIPS CONCLUDE GANGTOK, 07 Nov: Nima Tenzing Lepcha of Soyam Junior High School in boy’s and Tenzing Doma Sherpa of Bahai School, Tadong, in girl’s emerged has as the Best Player in the Cadet U-12 category of the 16th State Open Table Tennis Championship, which concluded here at Paljor Stadium indoor gymnasium hall today.

Yuksam school comes second at Regional Level Folk Dance Competition

GANGTOK, 04 Nov: Govt. Secondary School Yuksam, West Sikkim has made the state proud by bagging the second position at the Regional Level Folk Dance Competition held at Srimanta Sankaradev Kalashetra, Punjabbari Guwahati on 01 November, informs a press release.

Manav Dharma Sammelan to be held from 30-31 Dec at Siliguri

RANGPO, 06 Nov: A two-day Manav Dharma Sammelan is going to be organised at Siliguri Hansabela Ashram from 30 to 31 December. Sadgurudev Satpalji Maharaj along with hundreds of spiritual leaders will be present at the programme organised by Manav Uthan Sewa Samiti [MUSS] North East region.

More than 50% of state budget going to Salaries and Deptts don’t know number of their Employees!

FINANCE COMMISSION SEEKS AN EMPLOYEE CENSUS
GANGTOK, 06 Nov: What was long feared but never spoken aloud or even enquired into much has now been given a firm stamp of confirmation by none other than the central government itself in the form of the 13th Finance Commission. 

Twenty Teesta Stage V Land Oustees Employees re-designated

EMPLOYEES EXPRESS GRATITUDE
GANGTOK, 06 Nov: Teesta [Stage V] Land Oustees Employees, have expressed gratitude for the re-designation of 20 employees as per their qualification on 13 September earlier this year, in a press release issued today.

Union Minister of State for Power on Sikkim tour

SPCC SUBMITS MEMORANDUM
GANGTOK, 06 Nov: The Union Minister of State for Power, KC Venugopal, arrived in Gangtok, Sikkim today. The Union Minister of State is on a two day visit to the state and before arriving at Gangtok visited a couple of hydel projects on the way in East District.

CM performs Sankalpa puja at Char Dham

NAMCHI, 06 Nov [IPR]: The Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling along with Mrs. Tika Maya Chamling offered prayers and also performed the "Sankalpa" for initiation of Puja at Siddeshwara Dham (Char Dham).

One more arrested on charges of peddling

GANGTOK, 06 Nov: The Sadar police has been clamping down on drug peddlers in the capital of late and following the arrest of one person on Friday, 4 November, the police made yet another arrest on 5 November.

CONSTRUCTION OF PILGRIMAGE CUM CULTURAL CENTRE AT SOLOPHOK, NAMCHI, SOUTH SIKKIM

In accordance with the vision and the initiative of Chief Minister Pawan Chamling, the Government is endeavoring to promote “Rural Village, Eco friendly and Religious Tourism.” The unparalleled beauty of the State and very friendly and hospitable people are our competitive and comparative advantage.

Know your history

Letter;
Being an avid reader of your NOW! the most circulated and in demand paper of our age in Sikkim, and that's why it hurts when there are errors that too related to our own heritage and culture, on your 2 Nov 2011 issue regarding the honorable CM's visit to Labrang Monastery.

Governor condoles the passing away of singer Bhupen Hazarika

GANGTOK, 06 Nov: The Governor of Sikkim, Balmiki Prasad Singh has expressed deep condolence over the passing away of legendary singer of international renown, Bhupen Hazarika, in a press release issued by the PRO to the Governor.

Chairperson, Commission for Protection of Child Rights visits Pachey, East Sikkim

GANGTOK, 06 Nov: Chairperson, Sikkim Commission for Protection of Child Rights, Manita Pradhan along with members, Yangchen Ladingpa and Nim Choki Bhutia visited the ICDS centre at Phirphirey Pachey under Pakyong sub-division on 04 Nov, informs a press release.

Believers’ Church, Sikkim distributes relief materials to affected Dzongu families

MANGAN, 06 NOV:  The members of Believers Church of Sikkim distributed essential commodities to Earthquake affected people of Dzongu on 4 November.  Each of the 20 affected families of 12th Mile Upper Dzongu were provided with 50kgs Rice along with the a blanket.

Approaching World Bank, ADB will increase state burden by Rs.5000 claims Bhandari

SPCC TO COME OUT WITH SIKKIM CONGRESS AWAZ
GANGTOK, 06 Nov: The Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee president, NB Bhandari has stated that it is not proper for the state government for seeking assistance in the form of funds from international funding agencies. Addressing a press conference today the party president said that this was not in the interest of Sikkim.

11th Convocation at SMU with passing out of 782 students

GANGTOK, 06 Nov [IPR]: The Sikkim Manipal University organized its 11th Convocation in the Auditorium hall of new College building at Sikkim Manipal University, 5th Mile Tadong on 5 November.

DoNER Minister assures Sikkim assistance over and above Rs.1000 crores

DPRs TO BE FINALIZED ON PRIORITY BASIS
GANGTOK, 06 Nov: The Minister of State Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Paban Singh Ghatowar was on a two day visit to Sikkim on 2 and 3 November. During this visit he chaired a meeting held at Chintan Bhawan on 3 November 2011 at 9.AM to review the NLCPR &NEC projects in Sikkim. The meeting was attended by the Chief Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary and Secretaries informs a release issued by the IPR department.

Farewell for retiring teachers at Linkey SSS

AREA MLA CALLS FOR END OF PARTIALITY IN RECOGNIZING DESERVING TEACHERS AND ALSO FOR RECOGNITION OF DESERVING SCHOOLS

GANGTOK, 06 Nov: A Complex Level Retired Farewell 2011 program was held on 5 November at Linkey Secondary School. Area MLA, LM Lepcha was present as the chief guest and Joint Director HRDD East, Dr. Ganesh Chettri was present as the guest of honor. TO Bhutia teacher and Nagay Bhutia (Lower Division Clerk) were the two retiring persons.

Panchayat members collecting Rs.400 as application for earthquake relief alleges Congress

GANGTOK, 06 Nov: Accusations and suspicions over discrimination in the earthquake relief distribution still continue with the Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee now accusing panchayat members of Khani Serbung- Suntoley Gram panchayat in West Sikkim of charges of corruption.

CRC Level Primary Teachers Training conducted at Kitam Sec School

NAMCHI, 06 Nov: The fourth day of the Cluster level Primary Teachers’ Training took place at Govt Secondary School Kitam, South Sikkim on 05 Nov under the direction of District authority of HRDD (South) to make primary teachers efficient and competent for the holistic development of students of elementary level, informs a press release.

Training on Safe Drinking Water and Sanitation

GANGTOK, 06 Nov: The Mountain Institute India with the funding support from Arghyam, Bangalore, organized “Training workshop on Safe Drinking Water and Sanitation” on 4 November in Ankuchen village in Linkey Tareythang GPU, East Sikkim.

Parents -Teachers’ Coordination Meet at Darap Secondary School, West Sikkim

GANGTOK, 06 Nov: The Annual Coordination Meeting of Parents and Teachers of Government Secondary School, Darap, West Sikkim, was held on 1 November at its premises.

Health Exhibition for schools

GANGTOK, 06 Nov: State IEC Bureau under Department of Health Care & Human Service organized a Health exhibition on different subjects with a view to create awareness among students and teachers on 04 November at Ranka Senior Secondary School.

Technology Awareness Program on cardamom concludes at Gyalshing

GANGTOK, 06 Nov: The final Technology Awareness Programme on Disease Free Planting materials and Post Harvest Management of Large Cardamom concluded at KVK, Gyalshing, West Sikkim, on 4 November 2011.

Rebuilding

The HRDD building at the Tashiling Secretariat complex being given a make-over by masons. The building was severely damaged in the 18 Sept earthquake and the Department had to be shifted to the DIET building.

High Level Committee to examine issues of the three HEPs on Rathong Chu

STATE GOVERNMENT GETS POSITIVE
GANGTOK, 04 Nov: Hydel projects have been a sore point with the people of Sikkim and a bone of contention for the state government and affected people in particular. Following the controversies surrounding the establishment of NHPC Stage V at Dikchu and the development of 1200 MW Teesta Stage III by Teesta Urja among the more elaborated ones in the state the government now seems to be grappling with the one raised by the proposal to develop 3 hydel projects in West Sikkim with certain organizations here protesting these projects.

Banks come to assistance of earthquake affected with soft loan option

MORATORIUM OF 1 YEAR FOR THOSE UNABLE TO PAY EMI
GANGTOK, 04 Nov: The state government has taken the initiative to approach banks in the state to assist those people affected by the earthquake especially those who have taken house loans etc. Today the Chief Secretary, Karma Gyatso along with Additional Chief Secretary, R Ongmu, held a special meeting with all banks in the state, 26 in all including the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Socio-Economic Caste Census for urban areas begins

GANGTOK, 04 Nov (IPR): The Socio-Economic and Caste Census, 2011 commenced for the urban areas ; from 2nd November; the census commenced from Gangtok Municipal Corporation-III enumeration block of Deorali, ward no.11.

Khangchendzonga Park finally opens as a Joint Venture with Civil Engineering Enterprises

Pratibha Devisingh Patil inaugurating the park on 15 April, 2010

GANGTOK, 04 Nov: After Rs.55 crores spent on its construction and a year and a half of lying unused the Khangchendzonga Tourist Villa-cum Socio Cultural and Amusement park at Ranka has finally been opened to the public. As officials inform, a ‘soft’ opening was conducted on 2 November by RMDD Minister, CB Karki at the premises of the Park which had been inaugurated by President, Pratibha Singh Patil during April, 2010.

Two suicides

GANGTOK, 04 Nov: Two Unnatural Death [UD] cases have been reported to have taken place in the state, one from Jorethang PS and the other from Singtam PS.

Two booked under SADA for peddling drugs

GANGTOK, 04 Nov: Two persons have been booked by the Sadar Police under section 9 of the Sikkim Anti Drugs Act [SADA] for being in possession of contraband substances.

A big round of applause to Dr. Pawan Kumar Chamling and his team

Letter:
Earthquake is not a man-made disaster, it is a natural phenomenon, not a pre-informed event, it is an instant and unpredictable disaster. It is a fact that Sikkim has experienced an extremely bad situation due to the huge earthquake of 18 September which caused huge loss of lives and properties.

ETSS for smooth traffic management

Letter:
Kudos to the Sikkim Traffic Police for introducing Electronic Traffic Signal System and inaugurating its operation at the Hospital Traffic Point of Gangtok which in fact, is going to be the first of its kind in any of the Himalayan towns like ours witnessing tremendous growth of traffic congestion of late.

Harassed by men in uniform

Letter:
Going by the frustration and humiliation suffered during encounters with few traffic policemen within Gangtok, I can well imagine the plight of my fellow citizens of the largest democracy of the world where Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) is in force. My heart goes out to the people of Manipur and J&K who have to face extreme suffocation and humiliation from the men in uniform on a daily basis.
Mahesh 

Lady Gaga in Aparna & Norden Wangdi couture

A sketch of the dress designed by the duo for Lady Gaga

‘Explore, Experiment, Innovate, Enjoy’ Aparna & Norden Wangdi's design dictum and could they have had a better magical story to illustrate it than for the most experimental of divas, Lady Gaga.

‘Kirat Connection Festival’ to begin on Saturday

GANGTOK, 04 Nov: The 2nd Triennial conference ‘Kirat Mahasabha’ of Assam Kirat Sammelan (AKS) will begin from tomorrow at Pawai Bongaon, Margheritha in Tinsukia district of upper Assam, informs a press release.

Support Remanti and Robin say Singtam residents

GANGTOK, 04 Nov: While the duo Remanti and Robin from Sikkim are making strenuous efforts to impress the judges in North East Superstar, the public of Singtam are disappointed at the idea of Singtam not taking any interest to support them.
Inspite of Singtam Basibiyalo’s appeal to the public to come forward and vote for Remanti and Robin, not a single organization or association has taken any initiative to set up voting booths in and around Singtam.  

29th Anniversary of attainment of Parinirvana of HH 16th Karmapa

GANGTOK, 04 Nov: The 29 year anniversary of the attainment of Parinirvana of the 16th Gyalwang Karmapa Rangjyung Rigpe Dorje was observed at Rumtek Jimchung of the 14th Gyalwang Shamarpa Mipham Chokyi Lodrue today.

ICAR imparts knowledge on upland paddy to around 40 farmers

GANGTOK, 04 Nov: Krishi Vigyan Kendra under ICAR Sikkim Centre, Tadong organized a programme on “Field day on upland paddy cultivation” under the project NICRA at ICAR Tadong Farm today, with the objective to impart knowledge about upland paddy cultivation on the principle of ‘learning by doing’ and ‘seeing is believing’, informs a press release.
More than forty rice farmers selected from six different villages participated in this programme.

St Stephen’s College, Delhi lends a hand to earthquake affected families at Chandaney

SINGTAM, 04 Nov: A 13-member team from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi accompanied by president, SPARK NGO, Praveen Pradhan, carried out earthquake rehabilitation work at Chandaney, under Dalapchand GPU on 02-03 Nov.

Councillors and officials sensitised on RAY and SJSRY

GANGTOK, 04 Nov: A Programme on Sensitization of the 2 Centrally Sponsored Schemes under the Ministry of Housing & Urban Poverty  Alleviation, namely Rajiv Awaz Yojana (RAY) and Swarna Jayanti Sahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY) was conducted on 1 November 2011 in the Conference Hall of GMC Office in Deorali.

ASESEUA criticizes SBS explanation for alleged “illegal” appointments

GANGTOK, 04 Nov: The All Sikkim Educated Self Employed and Unemployed Association [ASESEUA] has criticized the clarification issued by the State Bank of Sikkim officials on the issue concerning the alleged illegal appointment of several Junior Accounts Assistants at the SBS as being a very poor excuse.

16th State Open TT Championships begins with over 400 participants

SAGAR CHHETRI
GANGTOK, 04 Nov: More than 400 players are taking part in the 16th edition of State Open Table Tennis Championship, which was inaugurated by the Sports & Youth Affairs Minister, NK Pradhan, today here at Paljor Stadium indoor gymnasium.

9th Biennial workshop of Application Plastic in Agriculture

GANGTOK, 04 Nov: The 9th Biennial workshop of All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Application of Plastic in Agriculture (APA) was inaugurated at the College of Agricultural Engineering and Post Harvest Technology (CAEPHT), Central Agricultural University (CAU) on 04 November, informs a press release.

Cleanliness drive by Gyalshing police

GYALSHING, 04 Nov: Gyalshing Police conducted a three-day cleanliness drive at Gyalshing Bazaar. All jhoras and drains falling under the Gyalshing Nagar Panchayat were cleaned starting from 8 30 am till 3 30 pm. 

Urban Inc, a local hip hop band, released it’s first album ‘Rise to the Top’ on 02 Nov in a function held in the Live ‘n’ Loud Café, Gangtok. The function had Gangtok, MLA, Dorjee Namgyal, Deputy Mayor, Shakti Singh and Thukchuk Lachungpa as the guests of honour. The band comprises of rappers, Tenzing Lekchola, Thupden, Robin and DJ/music composer, Sunny Norden.