USFC ends I-League debut with 3-0 loss against Mohun Bagan

GANGTOK, 11 May: Bhaichung’s United Sikkim Football Club [USFC] completed its debut I-League season today with a match against Mohun Bagan here at Paljor Stadium. The last match brought no changes either in the ranking or number of points for USFC as it went down 3-0 to Mohun Bagan ad now stares at relegation. The match had Chief Minister Pawan Chamling as chief guest and although the stands were largely empty, it received an interestingly crowd of Bengali supporters [tourists perhaps], most of whom were, still more interestingly, cheering for Bhaichung’s USFC.
USFC finishes its senior division I-League debut on last position, ranked 14th with its 15 points from 26 matches, having registered only two wins, suffered 15 losses and managed 09 draws.
Mohun Bagan fielded its regular squad having the most expensive striker of Indian football, Odafa Onyeka Okolie, and Indian football team stopper, local lad Nirmal Chettri, Quinton Norman Jacobs, who played for USFC last season, and other popular players of MB against the regular squad of the USFC. The home team gave a strong fight, but today was obviously not its day. 
An early goal by Nirmal Chettri, who converted a long range shot from the right flank in the 9th minute itself, took Mohun Bagan ahead.
Even as USFC was trying to pull the lead back, the referee offered a penalty shot to the visitors in the 71st minute which was converted by striker, Odafa Onyeka Okolie. Substitute Tolgay Ozbey extended the lead to 3-0 in the 88th minute. With this win, Mohun Bagan finished the season on the 10th position with 29 points.
Nima Tamang of USFC was adjudged the Man of the Match today.
In a major scare on ground today, USFC defender, Sandesh Jhingan, sustained head injuries in a collision with an MB player and had to be rushed to the hospital, am ambulance rushed into the field to evacuate him. He was however discharged shortly after from the hospital, the concussion causing no lasting damage.
Addressing the post-match press conference, the USFC coach, Nathan Hall, sharing his experience of the season, mentioned that the team has shown considerable improvement despite the lows it suffered. There were some areas which still needed work, he admitted, while adding that he was proud of the effort put in by all players.
Mohun Bagan coach, Karim Benchrifa, expressed his happiness on collecting thee points for their last match. He shared that he had many tough challenges when he took charge as the coach late in the season but overcame them successfully.
As for the I-League, Churchill Brothers finished the season as the champions with Pune FC on second and East Bengal on third position.

HILLSIDE LEAKS

Cracks on the hill side gallery of Paljor Stadium are now seeping with water and require immediate attention of the concerned department to avoid further damage. As the accompanying photograph reveals, seepage from the drain running above the hillside gallery, which is believed to be the main reason behind the cracks developing in the first place, is now a cause for worry. The ongoing dry weather could be utilized well to repair the damage because if left unattended, the problem will escalate when the rains arrive.

More than football footwork at Paljor Stadium for USFC home matches of I-League

BHAICHUNG LINES UP PERFORMANCES BY LOCAL ARTISTS DURING I-LEAGUE’S SIKKIM LEG

GANGTOK, 28 Sept: United Sikkim Football Club [USFC] is gearing up to host 13 matches of the Senior Division I-League 2012-13 at Paljor Stadium here, and even as the players are in intense training for the club’s I-League debut, the management has tied up with cultural groups and performing artists from the region to add a dash of entertainment to the sporting action at Paljor Stadium.
Addressing a press conference here recently, USFC co-owner, Bhaichung Bhutia, informed that the top-20 contestants from the “Just Dance Darjeeling Little Champ- 2012” will be performing at the ground during at the inaugural match, not just of the Sikkim leg, but I-League 2012 itself, on 06 October when USFC takes on the formidable Salgaocar SC.
Interestingly, Sikkim will be hosting both, the inaugural as well as the final match of the I-League this season with the last match of the league scheduled for 28 April 2013.
Bhaichung explained the decision to invite performances by local artistes during the matches here was an extension of the Club’s commitment to promote local talent – by signing up more players from the region and now also by providing another platform for the performing artists from the region.
Just Dance Darjeeling Little Champ- 2012 is being organized by Darjeeling-based the Himalayan Twister.
Bhaichung informed that almost every match home match will feature performances by local artists and bands.
He highlighted that I-League was the biggest football event for Sikkim and will go a long way towards inspiring upcoming and young local footballers. He added that the entertainment package at the venue will also be another highlight for spectators apart from matches of biggest clubs of the country.
Bhaichung mentioned that the moment he heard about the Just Dance Darjeeling Little Championship, he invited them to perform on the inaugural day.
Himalayan Twister secretary, Bikram Bhitrikoti, in turn mentioned that the dance competition was for the age group of 6-16 years and aims to promote talent of the hills and help them compete in national level competitions and talent hunts. He informed that more than 1000 contestants participated in the event this year and expressed gratitude towards Bhaichung for providing an opportunity to the top-20 to perform on the inaugural day. The dance competition is scheduled for a grand finale at Chowrasta in Darjeeling on 28 October.

Boys’ Club revives Inter-Departmental Football Tournament

GANGTOK, 01 Oct: The Inter-Departmental Football Tournament was kicked off by Chief Secretary Karma Gyatso here at Paljor Stadium today. Originally organized by the Sikkim Football Association on sponsorship by the Home Department, the tournament has been revived after a gap of many years by one of the oldest football clubs of Sikkim, Boy’s Club, this year.
A total of 22 teams representing various government departments are taking part in the tournament which will be played in the league format with each team playing four matches each. The matches are on the “recreation format” of 35 minutes for each half and five substitutions allowed for the teams in each match.
In his inaugural address, the Chief Secretary expressed his happiness on the revival of this tournament and thanked Boy’s Club for taking the initiative.
Former Chief Secretary, PK Pradhan, who is also a former Sikkim Football Association president, also expressed his happiness on the revival of the tournament and urged Boy’s Club to sustain its initiative.
Likewise, the Sports and Youth Affairs Secretary, Karma P Bhutia also congratulated the Boy’s Club for resuming the tournament after a long gap.
Boy’s Club coordinator, Basant Gurung thanked all the government departments for supporting the tournament and mentioned that money saved from the organisation of the tournament will be used to train underprivileged children [aged between 12 to 17 years] enrolled in the Boy’s Club Academy. He also expressed gratitude towards the Chief Secretary on behalf of the club for granting permission to revive the tournament.
The inaugural match was played between Sikkim Legislative Assembly and Law Department, which the former won 3-0. In other matches played later in the day, Home Department outplayed DoP 2-1 and Land Revenue Department beat Planning and Development Department 4-3.

Advance Coaches Training Prog by SOB Sikkim Chapter begins at Paljor Stadium

ANUSHA GURUNG
GANGTOK, 11 Sept: A seven-day Advance Coaches Training Programme in football, athletics and volleyball is being held here at Paljor Stadium from 10 -16 September, which is organized by Special Olympics Bharat [SOB], Sikkim Chapter and sponsored by Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.
Addressing a press conference today, SOB Sikkim Area Director, Dr BP Dhakal briefed about the Sikkim Chapter of SOB which started in the year 2005. “Special Olympics Bharat is an organization which aims to empower differently-abled children through sports”, said Dr Dhakal.
Dr Dhakal also appealed to the coaches to keep the flame of Special Olympics alive. The first agenda of the coaches should be service, he said.
“We are here for a noble cause to promote the vast area of Special Olympics through the medium of sports by organizing this Advance Coach Training Programme in these 3 disciplines; football, athletics and volleyball”, said Asia Pacific Coach, NK Chettri.
This 7-day training will cover orientation, basic rules and Panchayat Yuva aur Khel Krida Abhiyan [PYKKA] scheme for all the disabilities. This will also include the aims and objectives of project ‘Unify’ wherein some schools will be involved. “This is the new chapter we are adding this time”, said Mr Chettri.
He further informed that they are also thinking of adopting the Game Management System. GMS (Games Management System) is a database program designed to manage and record registration data, games, events, entries, divisioning, scores, and reports of a sport event. The software is especially useful for the purposes of running meets in individual sports involving timed events as it handles the process of divisioning automatically and without need for manual calculation and provides comprehensive reporting of results for athletes, coaches and spectators.
The training programme, which started yesterday, has a total number of 50 participants from Jharkhand, Bihar, Assam and also from Bhutan. During the formal inaugural function, Mr Chettri also thanked the Sports and Youth Affairs Department for providing them with various facilities.
Chief guest, Chairperson [Sikkim Olympic Bharat] Manita Pradhan welcomed all the coaches who have come from different states, representatives from Bhutan as well as the resource persons.
It is a difficult task to guide someone with a disability and the coaches play a vital role in guiding as well as training the differently-abled athletes, said Ms Pradhan.
“Special Olympics is not just an event these days but it has become a movement and we are trying to get other sections of the society to join this movement”, said Ms Pradhan.
Mentioning that the ratio of coaches and athletes is 1:6 she said that now coaches from PYKKA can also be brought in for this purpose. PYKKA aims to promote sports at the village level amongst both the differently-abled and normal persons, she added.
Ms Pradhan further urged all the coaches to dedicate themselves towards the cause during the training. She also highlighted that more women should be encouraged to participate in the Special Olympics Sikkim Chapter.
Also present on the day were Arjuna Awardee Jaslal Pradhan, Deputy Director Sports Department Ram Biswakarma, Deputy Director Sports Department Thupden Bhutia, Treasurer CP Dhakal and Coach Ram.

Archery Olympic Camp concludes at Paljor Stadium

GANGTOK, 06 June: The 20-day Archery Olympic Camp for the Indian Olympic Archery Team held for the first time in Sikkim concluded here at Paljor Stadium today. Both men’s and women’s teams and even coaches expressed that the camp at Gangtok proved beneficial in preparation of their upcoming competitions.
It may be mentioned here that due to unfavourable weather conditions in Kolkata, the Archery Association of India [AAI] shifted the Archery camp to Paljor Stadium this time.
On the last day of the camp, Sikkim Archery Association president, PHE Minister, TT Bhutia accompanied by general secretary, Dr KB Gurung and other executive members of SAA, expressed their best wishes on behalf of the SAA and the people of Sikkim to the Indian team members and coaches. On the occasion, the president also handed over Site Allotment Order provided by the State government to Arjuna Awardee, Tarundeep Rai, at Lumsey in Tadong “in recognition of his outstanding performance in sports [Archery]”.
The SAA president mentioned that it was a proud moment for Sikkim to host the Olympic camp in the state and it was also a big achievement for the SAA. He further wished the archers luck for the Olympics and World Cup.
Speaking to media persons, Tarundeep expressed his gratitude to the government for the encouragement and support. He mentioned that the camp at Gangtok helped them a lot to practice for around 8 hours in a day which was not possible in Kolkata. He expressed his hope and expectation to qualify for the London Olympics with a better performance in the 3rd Stage of the Archery World Cup Tournament at Ogden in USA. Tarundeep thanked the SAA for supporting the coaching camp.
Likewise, Indian archer, Deepika Kumari, who is on the fifth position in world rankings at present, expressed that the camp at Gangtok would help them to a large extent in the Olympics as the weather conditions in London is similar to that of Gangtok’s. She expressed that Indian women’s team was in good form and would hopefully bag medals for the country in the London Olympics.
Chief Coach, Limba Ram Ahari, also stated that the pleasant weather conditions of Gangtok made long practice sessions possible and further added that such climate would also help archers to store energy and peace of mind.
The Chief Coach also expressed his deep gratitude towards the Sikkim Archery Association for their continuous support and cooperation.
The archers are undergoing training under chief coach, Mr Ahari assisted by coach, Ravi Shankar and coach, Purnima Mahato. The team was also accompanied by physiotherapist, Jaideep Das Choudhuri and masseur Anup Das.
The women’s team comprises of Deepika Kumari, L Bombyala Devi and Chekrovolu Swuro, who have already qualified for the upcoming London Olympics 2012 in the individual and team events. While, the men’s team has Sikkim’s own Tarundeep Rai, Jayanta Talukdar and Rahul Banerjee, among them only Jayanta Talukdar has qualified for the London Olympic 2012 in the individual category so far. Now, Tarundeep and Rahul have their last chance to qualify for the Olympics in the 3rd Stage of the Archery World Cup Tournament scheduled to be held at Ogden in USA from 17 to 24 June.

Olympic Archers begin training at Paljor Stadium

SAGAR CHHETRI
GANGTOK, 17 May: The Archery Olympic Camp for the Indian Olympic Archery Team, being hosted in Sikkim for the first time, began at Paljor Stadium today. Due to unfavourable weather conditions in Kolkata, the Archery Association of India [AAI] shifted the Archery camp to Paljor Stadium, it is informed. The coaching camp is scheduled to continue till 07 June.
The men’s and women’s archery teams comprising of three members each will be undergoing around three weeks of coaching here. The women’s team comprises of Deepika Kumari, L Bombyala Devi and Chekrovolu Swuro, who have already qualified for the upcoming London Olympics 2012 in the individual and team events. Likewise, the men’s team has Sikkim’s own Tarundeep Rai, Jayanta Talukdar and Rahul Banerjee, among them only Jayanta Talukdar has qualified for the London Olympic 2012 in individual category so far. Tarundeep and Rahul have their last chance to qualify for the Olympics in the 3rd Stage of the Archery World Cup Tournament scheduled to be held at Ogden in USA from 17 to 24 June.
The archers are undergoing training under chief coach, Limba Ram Ahari and assisted by coach, Ravi Shankar and coach, Purnima Mahato. The team is also accompanied by physiotherapist, Jaideep Das Choudhuri and masseur Anup Das.
Addressing a press conference today, AAI general secretary, Paresh Nath Mukherjee mentioned that due to very hot and humid weather at Kolkata, which is not suitable for archers for practice, the archery Olympic camp has been shifted temporarily to Gangtok from its home camp at SAI Kolkata. He further mentioned that although some other places also have similar weather like Gangtok but due to the interest shown by the Sikkim Archery Association [SAA] the camp is being held at Gangtok.
Mr Mukherjee stressed that these three weeks of the camp are very crucial and important for archers to prepare themselves for the competition. He encouraged archers to make the best use of the condition and facilities available at Gangtok.  He mentioned that these six archers have been selected for the Olympic team, in which Tarundeep Rai and Rahul Banerjee now have to get their quotas for the London Olympic.
He mentioned that the Olympic games will have 12 teams each in men’s and women’s and 9 have already qualified in the men’s category and the Indian Archery men’s team now has to qualify for the London Olympic in their last chance at the 3rd Stage of the Archery World Cup Tournament at Ogden. He expressed hope that the men’s team will make it to this year’s London Olympic.
SAA president, PHE Minister, TT Bhutia, stated that it was a proud moment for Sikkim to host the Olympic camp in the state and it was also a big achievement for the SAA. He further mentioned that such a camp would also encourage local players in their game.
He wished the archers luck for the Olympics and added that the SAA has also planned to demonstrate traditional archery to these international archers during the camp at Gangtok.
Chief Coach, Mr Ahari mentioned that the weather conditions at Gangtok is suitable for archers to continue long sessions of practice and its similarity with conditions in London would also help them prepare better.
Tarundeep mentioned that at present the confidence level of the men’s team is quite high and in good form. He added that the team has high hopes to qualify for the London Olympic in their last chance at Ogden. Likewise, other archers stated that the camp at Gangtok would help them to concentrate more on practice and help in their upcoming competitions.
As on 12 May 2012, Indian Women’s Archery team is on second position and Indian Men’s Archery team on the fifth position in the world, while Indian women’s archer Deepika Kumari is on the fifth position in the world ranking.
It may also be mentioned that impressive performance in international level competitions by Sikkim’s Tarundeep Rai and Chungda Sherpa is also a reason for the AAI choosing Sikkim for this prestigious camps.

Govt-Army collaboration springs a carnival in Sikkim

CM INAUGURATES SIKKIM SPRING CARNIVAL, FLAGS ECOTOURISM AS THRUST AREA
GANGTOK, 11 May [IPR]: The five-day Sikkim Spring Carnival 2012 being organized by the Tourism Department in collaboration with the Indian Army stationed here to woo tourists back to the state after the September 2011 Earthquke setback was formally inaugurated today by Chief Minister Pawan Chamling at Paljor Stadium.
During the inaugural function, a military tattoo by the 17 Mountain Division of the Indian Army including a fly-past by Helicopters, Bhangra dance, Khukri display, dog show, Kalaripayattu [South Indian martial art], Malkham and band display were performed.
Inaugurating the Carnival, the Chief Minister in his address to the gathering of public representatives, army personnel, students, local gentry, tourists and officers from the state administration detailed the various initiatives taken by the state government to project Sikkim as a favoured destination of tourists.
Outlining that eco-tourism is being developed as one of the means to translate the state’s locational disadvantages into a strength, the CM said, “This will form part of our inclusive approach to bring about comprehensive development of the State by duly harnessing human capital and our natural resources on a complementary mode.  This is where Eco-tourism becomes the core sector of economy in the State”.
The CM highlighted the various tourism projects in the state, particularly pilgrimage sites that are proposed and being developed across the state. In order to harness the state’s eco-tourism potential, agriculture, horticulture and floriculture that is its natural strength, the CM called upon the youth to take on the tourism sector. “I call upon all our youth population to urgently take up this knowledge based industry, this service sector to become the master of your own destiny”, said the CM further assuring that the government would offer all-out support in terms of creation of infrastructures and other facilities.
Speaking on last year’s earthquake and the environmental pressures that development brings about the CM enumerated some of the initiatives of the government in this context. Towards the end of his address, the CM sounded a note of caution to the public not to take things for granted.
“We know, peace requires protection, development and security require sustained promotion, rule of law need regular patronage” the CM stated further adding that the Sikkimese public must realize and break free of illusion and confusion and remain forever vigilant and responsible to guard the society against all elements who seek to spread disharmony in the name of politics, caste and creed.  
The GOC, 17 Mt Division V.N. Prasad in his address expressed his happiness in being associated with the civil administration of the state government in this mega event. Such joint venture will create a bond between the army and the people of the state which will be of great help for the protection of the country.
The Chief Minister also visited various other programme sites organised in view of the Spring Carnival in and around Gangtok.
After the inaugural function at Paljor Stadium, the Chief Minister visited the Directorate of Handlooms and Handicrafts complex where he inaugurated and visited the exhibition on ethnic bamboo products-cum-live demonstration by rural artisans from all around the state. The exhibition at the DHH complex also included unique tools and equipments used by the Lepcha tribe in their daily lives vis-a-vis hunting, fishing, musical instruments as well as daily household kits made up of bamboos and stinging nettle.
The exhibition highlighted and show cased the magnificent and languishing traditional arts and craft of the state. The exhibition was also supported by various departments like Forest, Tourism, Commerce and Industries, Horticulture, SRDA and various NGOs.
Thereafter, the Chief Minister proceeded towards White Memorial Hall where he inaugurated the Buddhist art of Butter Sculpture and Sand Mandala exhibited by Tourism and Civil Aviation Department and Photo exhibition by Information and Public Relations department of the State government.
He also flagged off the seven-day Mountain Biking expedition to Gurudongmar consisting of twelve participants including one from Norway at Ridge Park and inaugurated the newly beautified Ridge Park. The Chief Minister along with other dignitaries visited various stalls of the ethnic communities of the state showcasing different traditions and culture.

State team all set to play ball at the Dr T Ao Memorial Football tourney

22-MEMBER SQUAD ANNOUNCED 
GANGTOK, 29 Feb: A 22-member state team is all set to represent Sikkim in the Dr T Ao Memorial Football Tournament 2012 that begins on Friday here at Paljor Stadium. The tournament is being organized by the department of Sports and Youth Affairs for the first time in the state.
Names of members of the state team for this tournament were announced by the Sikkim Football Association general secretary, Menla Ethenpa on the last day of the seven-day selection camp at Paljor Stadium today.
The state squad will be led by Tenzing Tsephel as captain and Engpohang Subba [Sikkim Police] as vice-captain. The team has two goalkeepers- Kunzang Lachungpa [Lanshing FC, Shillong] and Pawan Chettri [United Sikkim FC].
The defence line has Sonam Pintso [SAI/SAG, Namchi], Karma Lendup Lepcha [Sikkim Police], Kushan Mangar [State Sports Academy], Mobin Rai [SSA], Nim Tshering Lepcha [USFC], Sagar Rai [USFC] and Afzal Ansari [USFC].
The shortlisted midfielders were Thupden Tshering Bhutia [USFC], Sahensha Ansari [USFC], Mayal Dok Lepcha [USFC], Bhupendra Kewa [USFC], Nima Tamang [USFC] and Don Tshering Lepcha [Lanshing FC].
Bir Bahadur Pradhan [Sikkim Police], Tenzing Tsephel Bhutia [AG Office], Sanjay Chettri [Lanshing FC], Engpohang Subba, Yakub Kami [SAI/SAG Namchi], Kassang N Lepcha [SSA] and Bijoy Subba [SSA] were shortlisted as forwards of the team.
A total of 26 local players, who are currently playing for different clubs in and outside the state, attended the selection camp which started on 23 February. The players underwent the camp under the coach, Suresh Mukhia and manager, Arjun Rai.
After announcing the names, Mr Ethenpa congratulated the selected players and encouraged those who did not make it to take it as a challenge and try their best to get selected next time. He encouraged the state team to maintain discipline and play with a sporting spirit being the host team.
Mr Ethenpa also congratulated the department of Sports and Youth Affairs for getting the opportunity to host this prestigious tournament in the state before their turn. He informed that Sikkim was scheduled to host the 7th edition of this tournament.
Sports and Youth Affairs Secretary, Karma P Bhutia also encouraged the players to play their best being the host state and urged them to show their best game.
United Sikkim FC coach, Philippe De Ridder also expressed his best wishes to the team members.
Speaking to media persons today, team captain Tenzing Tsephel expressed that the team will give their best and hopes to make it to the final round although the team has not got much time to prepare. Tenzing urged people to come forward to support the state team in the tournament.
Team coach, Suresh Mukhia said that the best players of the state playing for different clubs in and outside the state have been hand picked for the tournament and it would hopefully bear fruit.
Likewise, team manager, Arjun Rai mentioned that in a short span of time a good set of team has been constituted to represent the state. He also said that the team has the advantage of playing on home ground and crowd support would hopefully help the team to be the best in the tournament.



Sikkim to take on Arunachal Pradesh in the Dr T Ao Memorial football tourney on FridaSikkim will play against Arunachal Pradesh in the inaugural match of the Dr T Ao Memorial Football Tournament 2012 on Friday.
Sikkim has been placed in Group A along with Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Assam, while Group B has the defending champion, Manipur, Tripura, Nagaland and Meghalaya.
In this league cum knock-out football tournament, each team has to play three matches against teams in its group and the top two teams in the group will then enter the semi-final rounds.
Sikkim will be playing its next game against Mizoram on 04 March and then against Assam on 06 March.

19th National Veterans TT Champ concludes at Paljor Stadium

SAGAR CHHETRI
GANGTOK, 24 Feb: The closing ceremony of the 19th edition of National Veterans Table Tennis Championship 2012 hosted by Sikkim for the first time was held at Paljor Stadium indoor gymnasium hall this afternoon.
The five-day championship was organized by the Sikkim Veterans Table Tennis Association and was inaugurated by the Sports and Youth Affairs Minister, NK Pradhan, on 20 February.
A total of 38 teams from 24 states, 1 Union Territory of Chandigarh and 4 institutions from across the country took part in the championship. A total of 790 paddlers participated under various categories of 40 plus, 50 plus, 60 plus, 65 plus and 70 plus for men’s and women’s.
Tourism Minister, Bhim Dhungel was present as the chief guest of the closing ceremony, who also declared the closing of the championship.
Indian Veterans Table Tennis Association general secretary, Titus C Philipose appreciated the hospitality and organization of the championship in an enthusiastic manner in the state. He also congratulated the host state and the players from different parts of the country for participating in the championship in the right spirit.
The closing ceremony was also addressed by the SVTTA president, SB Subba and SVTTA general secretary, Kuber Bhandari, who expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister for supporting the championship and for promoting sports and games in the state.
The closing ceremony also featured the final matches of Men’s singles 40-plus and Women’s singles 40- plus categories.
In an interesting and contesting match, Harsh Chopra of Haryana defeated Nupur Santra of West Bengal in the deciding game of the best of five matches of men’s singles. In women’s singles, Sonal Joshi of Gujarat beat Mantu Murmu of West Bengal in straight sets.
The function was also attended by Political Advisor to the CM, KN Rai, who is the chief patron of SVTTA, ADGP Sikkim Police, SD Negi, who is the chief advisor of SVTTA, along with president, RG Lyngdoh, and general secretary, Chiranjeev Chaudhary, of North East Table Tennis Forum and STTA president, CK Basnet among others.

253 kids complete winter football coaching with Boy’s Club

GANGTOK, 31 Jan: The valedictory function of the 40-day long winter football coaching camp organized by one of the oldest football clubs of Gangtok, Boy’s Club, was held here at Paljor Stadium today.
This was the second consecutive year that Boys’ Club organized the coaching camp.
A total of 253 children, aged between 4 to 17 years, attended the camp during which they were trained by coaches and senior players of the Club. The camp had begun on 23 December.
The recently nominated Rajya Sabha MP from Sikkim, Hissey Lachungpa, who was present as the chief guest today, gave away the certificates to the participants.
Addressing the function, Mr Lachungpa appreciated the initiative in conducting such coaching camps and suggested that parents of the participants support the club by registering themselves as members.
He highlighted that sports and games help keep youth and children engaged in productive and healthy activities, and stressed that in order to strengthen the society, parents should work for the overall development of the children.
Mr Lachungpa mentioned that the State government has also given priority to sports and has been creating and developing facilities and infrastructures for sports across the state. He added that the government cannot provide jobs to everyone but it has been providing tremendous opportunities and scope for its people.
The MP suggested that private companies in the state should come forward to support and develop active sports clubs and associations in order to promote local sportspersons. Being the Sikkim Football Association advisor, Mr Lachungpa suggested that SFA should conduct leagues in different age categories to provide more platforms for local footballers.
He also urged the budding footballers to take inspiration from Bhaichung Bhutia to be a successful footballer and also urged them to concentrate on their studies along with sports.
SFA general secretary, Menla Ethenpa congratulated Boy’s Club for setting an example of an active club through their initiatives for budding footballers and for developing club culture in the state.
He mentioned that to encourage the club, SFA has been sending Boy’s Club teams to different national football tournaments. He informed that in a recent national tournament, Boy’s Club performed well and reached the semi-final stage and two of its players were even selected by the AIFF for the India U-17 selection camp at Goa.
Mr Ethenpa encouraged young players to be disciplined, dedicated and sincere in their game and further urged their parents to encourage their children in sports to keep them away from anti-social activities.
He also urged the Sports Department to complete and open the football ground at Khel Gaon as soon as possible to produce more footballers. Responding to Mr Lachungpa’s suggestions, he informed that SFA would start football leagues for different age groups soon.
Boy’s Club chief coach, Thupten Rapgyal informed that the main aim of the coaching camp was to promote football in the real sense across the state and to inculcate sports culture in the society. He further informed that sports culture has been developing in the state and a good number of parents were present at the ground on the day to encourage their wards.
Speaking to NOW! a Boy’s Club member, Basant Gurung informed that 253 children from all four districts participated in the camp. He stated that the response from the people was good and even the participation has doubled compared to last year.
He informed that children were taught on the basics of football, fitness and other skills. Mr Gurung also appreciated the encouraging response from the parents who were also involved along with their children in the camp.
The club has expressed its gratitude to Mr Lachungpa for supporting the coaching camp, Sports Department for providing the ground, parents and well wishers.

Governor applauds the nation’s gallant soldiers on 63rd Republic Day at Paljor Stadium

FOUR BOOKS BY DIFFERENT DEPTTS RELEASED, SSDMA WEBSITE ALSO LAUNCHED 
ANUSHA GURUNG
GANGTOK, 27 Jan: Governor BP Singh released four books published by different departments on the occasion of the 63rd Republic Day celebrations at Paljor Stadium yesterday.
‘Empowerment and Prosperity through Bio-Diversity Conservation in Sikkim’ published by the Forest department, ‘Sikkim towards Organic State by 2015’ by the Agriculture department, ‘Inventory and GIS Mapping of Landslides in North, East, West and South Sikkim’ and ‘Multi Hazards Risks Vulnerability Assessment of Gangtok Municipal Corporation’ by the Land Revenue & Disaster Management department were the books released.
The Governor also launched the website, www.ssdma.org of the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority on the occasion.
Earlier Mr Singh read out his Republic Day message after hoisting the National Flag. He also reviewed the parade and presented medals, awards and appreciation letter besides felicitating the World War II veterans of Sikkim.
 “In Sikkim, democracy has taken deep roots and the atmosphere is conducive for the overall wellbeing of the Sikkimese people. We have shouldered our responsibility in the most responsible manner and have consciously endeavoured to contribute towards national security and prosperity. The State enjoys unparalleled peace, progress and prosperity. As the State marches towards modernity, we continue to put emphasis on preservation of our rich culture and heritage.  
I convey my warm greetings to the gallant soldiers and members of the armed forces and the para-military forces who guard our borders. These brave men serve the nation in the most harsh and hostile conditions. I would like to place on record a deep sense of gratitude to the member of our security forces who made the supreme sacrifice to maintain security and integrity of the nation.” said the Governor of Sikkim, Balmiki Prasad Singh while addressing the 63rd Republic day celebration today at Paljor Stadium after hoisting the national flag.
World War II veterans from Sikkim were also felicitated on the day. The surviving veterans who could make it to the Republic Day event were Garjaman Rai [91yrs], Padam Singh Gurung [99 yrs], Ravi Lal Gurung [89yrs], Gyampa Namgyal Kazi [91yrs], Amar Singh Rai[99yrs] and Chandra Bdr Limboo [86yrs].
Other state and central government awards to government servants were also conferred on the occasion. [for details turn to Pg 2]
The Indian Army had put up an exhibit of army equipments and weapons at Paljor Stadium which was visited by the Governor and the Chief Minister. The Sikkim Police and Army bands also performed on the day. Various cultural programmes and a martial arts demonstration entertained the crowd which had gathered at the stadium to celebrate Republic Day.
         

Karate winter coaching camp gets underway at Paljor Stadium

GANGTOK, 12 Jan: A total of fifty Karatekas from across the state are undergoing a 15-day residential winter coaching camp organized by Sikkim State Karate-Do Association [SSKA] here at Paljor Stadium indoor gymnasium starting today.
The training is being provided by the experienced SSKA chief coach, BB Subba, assisted by coaches, Bijay Gurung and Bhim Bahadur Subba. This coaching camp is an annual feature of the association during the winter and summer vacations.
These coaching camps prove fruitful in preparing the state team for the national tournaments and also to keep children and youth busy in sporting and productive activities. It may be mentioned here that Sikkim karatekas have been continuously bringing national medals for the state and more importantly few Karatekas have also been qualifying for the National Games every year.
Chief Coach, Mr Subba informed that the camp has 75% new players and this time the camp is mainly concentrating on the Kumete [Fighting] skills and teaching participants mainly on score system skills to score more during fights.
The coaching camp is divided into three sessions starting from 6 to 7:30 AM, then 8 to 9:30 AM and from 1 to 3 PM. The camp has participants aged 7 to 25 years old.
Mr Subba stated that the coaching camp has proved beneficial for the participants in sharing talents with others and also helps them to learn new talents and skills. He stated that if Sikkim karatekas receive support and cooperation from the state then it would help the association to work more for the development and promotion of local karatekas.
The camp is also a preparation camp for the upcoming Sub-Junior and Junior National Karate-do Championships.

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.

Talent hunt for Boxing, Football and Shooting at Paljor Stadium

GANGTOK, 17 Oct: 11 Gorkha Rifles Regiment Centre, Lucknow, is conducting a talent hunt for its Boys Sports Company in Boxing, Football and Shooting from 19 to 21 October at Paljor Stadium.

Paljor Stadium relief camp hosts 13 families

AMEET OBEROIGANGTOK, 26 Sept: A total of 13 families are at present camped in the four rooms of a relief camp set up at the Paljor Stadium here in Gangtok. While five families [a total of 23 people] are from Arithang, six families [24 people] are from Sichey and two families [13 people] are from below the Paljor Stadium area.
The families from Arithang moved to the relief camp on 21 September, the Sichey families arrived here on 25 September and the families from below the Paljor Stadium area moved in today.

Sairus, Manish and Akash adjudged most promising players

SIKKIM STATE BADMINTON CHAMPIONSHIP CONCLUDES
GANGTOK, 11 Sept: The 23rd edition of the Sikkim State Badminton Championship concluded here at the Paljor Stadium indoor badminton gymnasium hall today.
More than 350 players from around the state compete in the five-day long championship, organized the Badminton Association of Sikkim [BAS].
Sairus Chettri, Manish Subba and Akash Rai in Boys’ U-13 and Gaganhang Subba in Boys’ U-16 were picked as the Promising Players of the championship.

TNSSS vs, Modern School clash for SSB Football Cup

GANGTOK, 08 Sept: Tashi Namgyal Senior Secondary School will take on Modern Secondary School in the finals of the Sashastra Seema Bal Football Championship here at Paljor Stadium on Friday.
In the first semi-final match played today, Modern SS thrashed Kyi-de-Khang School 7-2, while in the other semi-final, TNSSS outplayed Sichey SS 5-0.
The final match is scheduled to be attended by the UD&HD Minister, DB Thapa as the chief guest.

Tarundeep and Rahul Banerjee train for London Olympics at Paljor Stadium, make space for local archers to train along with them

GANGTOK, 22 Aug: International archers Tarundeep Rai and Rahul Banerjee are presently in-training at Paljor Stadium here. The duo is working though a 10-day training session, benefitting from the weather conditions here in preparation for the London Olympics. They began training on 17 August and in a welcome gesture, they have taken in four archers from Sikkim to train with them and benefit from the experience.
“We are practicing for Olympics 2012 and chose Gangtok due to the weather condition here at present which is similar to what we can expect in the London Olympics next year. This experience should prove very beneficial for us,” said Tarundeep while speaking to media-persons during his practice session at Paljor Stadium today.

CM flags social challenges and commitment to the young as priority issues

I-DAY CELEBRATIONS IN GANGTOK 
CM ANNOUNCES SCIENCE AND COMMERCE STREAMS FOR ALL SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS, Rs 500 NUTRITIONAL ALLOWANCE FOR NEW-BORNS FOR FIRST SIX YEARS

AMEET OBEROI
GANGTOK, 16 Aug: “We have to devise some stringent legislation to save our society from possible disintegration that is why we have contemplated imposition of rigorous penalty, including imprisonment and fines for anyone serving liquor to children and minors in hotels and restaurants and also for drug peddlers,” said Chief Minister Pawan Chamling in his address on the occasion of 65th Independence Day celebration held here at Paljor Stadium yesterday.