Sikkim bodybuilders warm up for Federation Cup Masters in Uttarakhand

GANGTOK, 27 Jan: A six-member Sikkim State Body Building Association [SSBBA] is all set to flex some muscles in the 11th edition of Federation Cup Masters and Handicap National Body Building Championship-2012 to be held on 04 and 05 February at Haldwani in Uttarakhand.
This is for the first time that a team from Sikkim is taking part in this championship.
Former Mr Sikkim, Pema Dorji Bhutia will represent the state in the Masters category [40 to 45 years] in the championship. Likewise, other team members are Arun Gurung [60 kg], former Mr Sikkim Suresh Chettri [60-65 kg], Norbu Tshering Bhutia [65 to 70 kg], Sonam Dadul Bhutia [70 kg] and Ganesh Neopaney [80 kg above].
The championship is being organized by the Uttarakhand Body Building Association under the aegis of Indian Body Building and Fitness Federation, which will have body builders from different parts of the country.
The team accompanied by manager, Robin Pradhan and chief coach, IB Gurung, who will also serve the championship as a national judge, will be leaving on 01 February for the championship.
Addressing a press conference today, chief coach, Mr Gurung stated that this would be a tough one as this championship is considered to be one of the more prestigious and competitive ones after the Mr India Body Building Competition in the country.
However, he stated that local body builders have been doing well in the contests in and outside the state for sometime along with the improvement in body building standards in the state.
Mr Gurung informed that the championship also has a contest for handicapped bodybuilders, which, he said, is also a way of bringing them into the mainstream. On the same, he stated that if any such person is interested then the SSBBA is there to help them out.
The association has also expressed its gratitude to all its well wishers for their support.
After this championship, the SSBBA team will represent the state in the upcoming Eastern India Body Building Championship scheduled to be held in the first week of March in Jharkhand and then at the Mr India Body Building Championship scheduled to be held in the first week of April at Pune.
SSBBA is also organizing the Mr Sikkim Body Building Championship on 24 March at Gangtok.

Letter: ASDASG

ASDASG [All Sikkim Departmental Adhoc Staff Gorup] firstly wants to clarify that this group is totally a non-political body as we have already mentioned in previous edition too, and we firmly lay stress on the fact. It is very sad for all of us to come to know that raising voice for our job security has been taken otherwise. We HRD/SSA teaching and non-teaching staff wants to know that fact why the HRD Ministry guidelines on recruitment of manpower for HRD/SSA staff have been implemented only in the year 2012 and not the previous year. As HRD/SSA have been giving extensions and even regularized to previous staffs despite of the fact that they has been recruited under the some guidelines as we have been recruited. We are seeking for the same privilege and norms they have been granted earlier. The HRD Department has said there was no mention of extension in our appointment order then why the previous SSA/HRDD staffs have been given extension and were working for the next academic session. The HRD Department has dismissed our claims for extension as baseless but we strongly oppose this allegation. It has been well mentioned in the NOW edition dated 26/1/2012 that equal opportunity has to be provided so we are at the verge of quarrying where the so called “Equal Opportunity” has been implemented to us. It is for the reminisce that NCTE norms have been implemented on April 2009. Then how come that the Department has recruited without following the provisions of the same in 2011 and at this juncture they are bounding us by the norms which are very unfortunate for all of us who have not received quality education.
All members of ASDASG would like to request the concerned department as well as the government to look into our grievances and grand us social justice.

Tenzing Chopel Bhutia, Bishal Rai, Nimkit Lepcha
[ASDASG members]

BBF aids infrastructure development at Singhik

MANGAN, 27 Jan: Among the infrastructural developments taken up by Bhavishya Bharat Foundation (BBF) with the support of hydel developer Teesta Urja Ltd, a Gumpa kitchen was constructed at Singhik.
This kitchen was handed over to the Singhik Gumpa Management Committee on 24 January, inaugurated by Panchayat President, Singhik-Kazor GPU, Achung Lepcha. The Panchayat President in his address thanked Bhavishya Bharat Foundation for supporting infrastructure development, livelihood, education and health care.
State Coordinator (BBF), Nawraj Gurung in his address, detailed the activities undertaken by BBF in the project villages. He requested for the community’s participation in the “Amoa Atil” (Mother’s Enterprise) program being initiated by the BBF in the project villages.
He also stressed that developmental intervention by external development agencies does produce sustainable impact provided the local community comes forward and participates in the development process.
Panchayat President, Panchayat Secretary, Panchayat Member of Kazor and Singhik, Gumpa Committee, Teesta Urja Ltd representative, BBF official and villagers were present at the inaugural function.

GVS conducts 12-day football coaching camp at Central Pendam

GANGTOK, 27 Jan: Gram Vikash Sangthan [GVS], an NGO based in Central Pendam, has been running a football academy and conducting coaching camps since 2007. This year too, GVS conducted a 12-day coaching camp from 13 to 26 January.
Out of the 49 students who participated in the camp, 8 were selected to join the academy. Students from all four districts participated in the camp this year. On the final day of the camp, SFA general secretary, Menla Ethenpa was present as the chief guest.
In his address, Mr Ethenpa appreciated the efforts of GVS in promoting the sport in rural areas. He further said that such camps are beneficial for the youth as it helps them to steer clear of anti-social activities and urged parents to support such initiatives.
It may be mentioned here that the GVS team came in second in last year’s SFA 2nd division league held at Paljor Stadium. [from SANJAY AGARWAL]

Red Ribbon Express reaches Mangan

MANGAN, 27 Jan: The Red Five open football championship organized by the Sikkim State Aids Control Society (SSACS) was played at Mangan public ground on 25 January. The football championship is part of the RED FEST campaign on HIV/AIDS awareness which is also supported the NGOs HOPE Foundation, SNP+, RUN and Serenity Home, Gangtok.
A total of 12 teams participated in the championship which saw Mc Donalds Singhikpa emerge as the champions defeating Belly Dancers by 2 goals to 1 in the final match held on 25 Jan. The winners will now play in the state level championship to be held in Gangtok.
The programme was attended by DM(N), TN Kazi as the chief guest,  along with SDM Mangan, PW Lepcha, Former chairperson, C Saring, President MNP, Karma Jigdal, councilor, PK Malu, DSO(N), Janim Lepcha, NGO representative, Karma Bhutia and members.

NHPC celebrates Republic Day

GANGTOK, 27 Jan: The 63rd Republic Day was celebrated at Teesta-V Power Station and Teesta-IV Project, informs a press release. The programme was attended by General Manager [O&M], DK Ray as the chief guest.
Apart from the regular programmes, traditional dances and patriotic songs were presented by the students of Kendriya Vidyalaya, the release informs. Students excelling in various cultural activities were felicitated on the day.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. TKR Naga, Principal of Kendriya Vidyalaya and other senior project officials, employees and school children were also present during the programme.

Namchi runs for unity on Republic Day

NAMCHI, 27 Jan: The 63rd Republic Day was celebrated in Namchi at the Community Hall with the Namchi-Singithang MLA, Binod Rai as chief guest.
The first half of the programme had the customary Republic Day events. In the second session of celebrations, which was held at the Central Park, the chief guest flagged off a marathon - ‘Run for the Unity of the Country’ jointly organised by the District Administrative Centre Namchi, Sports and Youth Affairs Department and Nehru Yuva Kendra, Namchi Chapter.
The marathon was held in the Under 14 boys and girls (10 kms) and 15 to 35 years male (21 kms) and female (15 kms) categories. The winners were awarded with cash prize and certificates by the chief guest.
In the Under 14 girls, Reena Harijan bagged the first position and cash prize of Rs 5000 followed by Deepika Kari and Renuka Sharma coming in second and third respectively bagging cash prizes of Rs 3000 and Rs 2000.
In the Under 14 boys, Debesh Budathoki won the marathon while Rahul Chettri and Tika Ram Nirola came in second and third respectively. The winners were awarded with cash prize of Rs 5000, Rs 3000 and Rs 2000 respectively.
In the 15 to 35 yrs female category, Mangali Tamang, Anita Dhakal and Dolma Sherpa stood in the first, second and third positions respectively. The winners were awarded Rs 10,000, Rs 7,000 and Rs 5000 respectively.
Likewise, in the males category for the same age group, Nima Tshering Tamang won the marathon for the 2nd year and took home a cash prize of Rs 15,000 while Prable Chettri and Jai Badhur Pradha came in second and third respectively and bagged Rs10,000 and Rs 7,000 respectively.
During the function the chief guest also presented Certificates of Appreciation sponsored by District Administrative Centre, Namchi, to selected Government Officers and their team for their commendable efforts in the aftermath of the 18 Sept earthquake.
ADC [South], SL Rai, ADC [Dev], DK Pradhan, ADC East, Suman Thapa who was SDM at Namchi earlier, SDM Namchi [SDM Chungthang at present], RK Yadav, SDM (Ravangla), PK Rai, Under Secretary RMDD, Bandana Chettri, DPO SDZP, Yangchen D Tamang, US HRDD, Subha Mukhia, DE Building and Housing, Milan Pradhan, SDPO Jorethang, BB Subba, BDO team of Temi, Yanggang, Namthang, Ravangla, Sikkip, Sumbuk were awarded the certificates.

The gathering was also entertained by a District Level Culture Competition organised by Nehru Yuva Kendra, Namchi Chapter. Sangam Samaj group from Borong were adjudged as the winners of the competition and were awarded cash prize of Rs 5,000 which was sponsored by the chief guest.

Driving training for unemployed youth begins in Mangan

MANGAN, 27 Jan: A two-month long driving training was inaugurated by Mangan Nagar Panchayat President, KJ Bhutia, at the MNP office here on 25 January. The training, offered free, is sponsored by the UD&HD under its ‘Skill training for employment promotion amongst urban poor (STEP-UP)’ scheme.
The trainees were informed about the rules and regulations of the training in the inaugural function. The programme was attended by MNP Councilors, PK Malu, Zangmoo Bhutia, CD Lepcha, ND Lepcha, Community organizer, UD&HD, Doma Bhutia and trainees.

41st episode of Basibiyalo Singtam to be held in 29 Jan

GANGTOK, 27 Jan: Basibiyalo Singtam has entered its 41st episode which is scheduled to be held at Singtam Nepali Dharamsala on 29 January. IGP Akshay Sachdeva will be attending as the chief guest. Shyam Pradhan, who played the lead role in the film ‘Romeo in Sikkim’ in the 70s, will be felicitated by Basibiyalo Singtam this time.
The film, which was shot in different parts of the state in 1973, was screened here in 1975, a press release informs. Mr Pradhan will be felicitated in a colourful cultural programme, which will include poetry recitals and traditional dance performances. [from SANJAY AGARWAL]

Trinley Thaye Dorje arrives in Kalimpong

GANGTOK, 27 Jan: Karmapa Trinley Thaye Dorje is in Kalimpong on a three-day visit. On his arrival at Kalimpong, he was accorded a traditional reception by the monks, both local and from Sikkim, informs a press release.
He has been invited by the local Tamang monks and devotees to Kalimpong to bless them on the auspicious occasion of Sonam Lochar. On January 26, apart from granting an audience to his devotees and monks of Kalimpong, he also imparted dharma teachings and blessings, the release mentions.

CM calls for renewed resolve to power speedy development

REPUBLIC DAY MESSAGE OF THE CHIEF MINISTER
GANGTOK, 25 Jan: Commenting that the development scenario in Sikkim today was “multi-faceted” and “based on equity and fair play, greater access and affordability”, Chief Minister Pawan Chamling, in his Republic Day message to the people has invited all Sikkimese to “rededicate ourselves to the cause of continued peace and harmony”. “Let us renew and resolve to contribute our mite to the speedy development of Sikkim and the Country, as always,” he appeals.
Reiterating his commitment, the CM states, “Truly empowered by the law of the land and blessed by the power of the people, I once again commit myself to the great task of State and Nation building”.
“My fellow Sikkimese, although we conduct ourselves under certain political arrangement, I am not for short-term political gain. Since the time the Sikkimese people voted us to run their government, I have tried to see beyond political rivalry and complicity but more firmly glued to the idea of securing greatest happiness for all my fellow citizens for all time to come,” he assures.
On the developmental plans, he informs that “traditional bottlenecks including inadequate connectivity, socio-economic disparity, lack of infrastructure for various high end activities and institute building are being taken care of”.
Important elements in the social sector like education, health, poverty eradication, human resource development, agriculture and horticulture, animal care, women empowerment and child protection etc. have been adequately addressed, he highlights while adding that infrastructure development and expansion was progressing at a smart pace as well.
Congratulating the people on the progress and prosperity already achieved, the CM highlights that “Sikkim today stands tall as one of the most progressive States in the Country with the correct mix of traditional and modernity with the range of development strategy that is one of the best in the Country”.
Here, he also points out that when he took charge as the Chief Minister of Sikkim for a record fourth term in 2009, a clear commitment was made to upgrade the development strategies and ambitious Mission Statements with time bound commitment were spelled out. The 42-day village to village tour undertaken by him last year facilitated a more intimate interaction at the very personal level leading to some important announcements and initiatives, he shares while detailing the developmental targets and policy decisions taken immediately after.
The CM, in his R-Day address, also reminds people of the period between 1975 to the early 1990 which, he points out, “was fraught with political duplicity threatening to tear apart fledgling democracy taking deeper roots in the Sikkimese society”.
The formation of the Sikkim Democratic Front and the growing sagacity of Sikkimese people, brought about a course correction and salvaged democracy in Sikkim, he states, adding that this collaboration has made Sikkim a “happy exception” to the many parts of the country which are “continuously struggling against development deficit”.
“In addition to benchmarking of high development regime, we have also completed some very rare and major projects to further promote Sikkim as the major destination with their inbuilt spin off benefit accruing to large sections of Sikkimese people,” he adds.
“Over the decades, we have initiated many developmental measures to provide for a more congenial environment of growth and uplift the condition of the poor and the vulnerable,” he shares, while adding that this commitment continues to underline governance in Sikkim.

Governor salutes optimism of Sikkimese people in R-Day message

GANGTOK, 25 Jan: “I am happy that the 18th September earthquake has not marred the optimism of our people,” states Governor BP Singh in his Republic Day message to the people of Sikkim. The Governor’s R-Day address, which details Sikkim’s developmental achievements and future plans, devotes a substantial portion on the 18 September Earthquake, its aftermath and the continuing rehabilitation works. “Although the State’s economic activities were temporarily impaired, we are resolved to reinstate Sikkim back on the path of progress,” the Governor assures.
Pointing out that the earthquake impacted every person in the State, the Governor conveys his special gratitude towards the “brave jawans and officers of the security and police forces who provided urgent and valuable assistance in relief and rescue operations”.
“People showed exemplary patience and courage in this natural calamity,” the Governor records, highlighting that it is inspiriting to recall that there were no reports of thefts or stampede for food and relief materials. “Young boys and girls came forward in remote areas of north Sikkim to lend their hands in running of temporary shelters as well as relief camps. This was an inspirational sight,” he states.
The rehabilitation work is now afoot, he details, while commenting that the temblor “brought before the Government agencies as well as to the people of the State new realities”. “It is quite evident that we need earthquake proof houses, better built roads, nature resistant water pipelines and earthquake resistant workplaces. Our existing urban building laws and the construction manual need close scrutiny,” he observes.
Pointing out that the role of the youth will be important to the rebuilding efforts, the Governor welcomes that many of them have come forward to become civil contractors and tour operators.
“Our educational institutions and capacity building institute should cater to the requirements of these persons as well as of our engineers by making them available fresh ideas and training programmes so that we can build roads and houses of world standards. Similarly, our tourism facilities including logistic support system need to be upgraded to achieve global standards,” he advices.
Detailing the various developmental achievements and future plans of the State Government, the Governor stresses that the challenges of the 21st century need to be met by building a knowledge-based society
“Several developments in recent times have taught us the need to cultivate positive thinking and to work in unison. Let us pledge to move together with earnestness on a path of development and progress. Let peace, harmony and development continue to be Sikkim’s distinctive features,” he appeals, adding: “The peace-loving people of Sikkim are both a source of motivation as well as an important ally in the development of the State. We seek their cooperation as stakeholders in the effective execution of the schemes and policies of the government”.

HRD dismisses claims of protesting former SSA employees as baseless

“AGITATING ADHOC EMPLOYEES WERE FULLY AWARE THAT THEIR TERM WAS ADHOC AND FOR ONE ACADEMIC YEAR ONLY”
GANGTOK, 25 Jan: The Human Resource Development Department has broken its silence on the string of allegations leveled against it by the protesting former ad hoc appointees under the Sarva Siksha Abhiyan scheme [read NOW! issued dated 23 Jan 2012 for details].
In a press communiqué issued today, the Department informs that the said employees were appointed under SSA “only for one academic session till 22nd December, 2011”. This, the release adds, was also detailed in the concerned Office Order.
“The agitating Adhoc employees were fully aware that their term of Adhoc appointment was for one academic session only and that there was no mention of extension in their appointment order as Sarva Siksha Abhiyan is a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme and is an additionality to the State and as such, it is a part of the Scheme of Public Employment where opportunities have to be provided to all,” the Department elaborates further.
The press communiqué, issued by the Director [Higher Education], HRDD, Deepa Basnet, goes on to inform that the Union HRD Ministers has prescribed detailed guidelines on recruitments under SSA. As per this, the posts were advertised in December 2011, against which 4,509 candidates applied and sat for the interviews held from 11 to 19 January 2012.
“The purpose of holding the interview was to provide equal opportunities to all educated unemployed to participate in the selection process,” the release states, further clarifying, “It is well settled that in all matters of public employments equal opportunity has to be provided by publication of Notice inviting applications.”

Editorial: For Us, the People

The Constitution of India is arguably one of the most comprehensive documents ever codified to secure equality for all citizens. It is a visionary document, and one that is exceptionally brave as well, in that it sets out to organise a Republic out of as many disparate people, ideologies and belief systems as find their home in India. While one might celebrate this diversity in normal times and on brochures, there is no denying that this heterogeneity presents a major challenge when crafting together the idea of nation. It confounds us to this day, and must have surely perplexed even the phenomenal minds which worked on drafting the Constitution. Remember, they were at work at a time when the horrors of the Partition were still fresh in everyone’s minds and communal, ethnic and caste division still very entrenched. And yet, the nation received a Constitution as brilliant as the one we enjoy. As a nation, every Republic Day provides an opportunity to marvel at the compassion which informed the minds which drafted the Constitution. As Indians, we respect the Constitution, something that is only natural because we source our dignity and pride from it. Republic Day is a celebration of the People and the very idea of India. Its preamble introduces the Constitution as a document that “We the People of India” gifted ourselves on this day in 1950 and announced to world our solemn resolve as Indians to live and govern by principles which ensure “dignity of the individual and unity and integrity of the Nation”. Admittedly, although the Constitution is aimed at making all Indians equal, disturbing disparities still mar the land, but this is not a failing of the Constitution and needs to be blamed on the limited ability of those responsible to uphold it. Those approaching the Constitution with limited ability and holding it back, are not the leaders alone, as many would have us believe, but the lay citizens as well for whom the document was drafted. As a people, we have failed in internalizing and understanding the document that makes us free, equal and empowered. As a nation, we need a greater appreciation of the sheer scale of influence that the Constitution has pulled off.
Mahatma Gandhi had visualized the Constitution of India as universal values applied to the specific and special conditions of India. Although he did not live to see the final document, as early as in 1931 he had written, “I shall strive for a Constitution which will release India from all thralldom and patronage. I shall work for an India in which the poorest shall feel that it is their country in whose making they have an effective voice: an India in which there is no high class or low class of people, an India in which all communities shall live in perfect harmony. There can be no room in such an India for the curse of untouchability. We shall be at peace with the rest of the world, neither exploiting nor exploited. All interests not in conflict with the interests of the dumb millions will be scrupulously respected whether foreign or indigenous. Personally, I hate the distinction between foreign and indigenous. This is the India of my dreams for which I shall struggle.” It has been 62 years since the Constitution was unveiled, and even though our leaders, caretakers and we as citizens have often failed it along the way, the Constitution of India remains one of the most robust, farsighted and effective documents ever put together. Few human endeavours have stood up the test of time as impressively. At the end of the day, the Constitution of India is more than a codification of rules and laws, it is a social document scripted to further the aim of social revolution by establishing conditions necessary for its achievement. Needless to add, the society it is compiled for has to respect and abide by it. Things could have been much better for India, but then, the Constitution was not offered as a magic mantra to end all ills, it was drafted to strengthen the hands of those who could bring about real change. It is important to always bear in mind that for every right we enjoy as Indians, steadfastness to this resolve is the responsibility we owe the Constitution.

All tenth graders at Takste International School pass Cambridge International Board Exam with flying colours

GANGTOK, 25 Jan: Principal of the Taktse International School, Phuntsok Lauenstein, has announced that the school received the tenth grade 2011 Cambridge International Board Exam results yesterday and that all its eight students have performed well.
A press release informs that one student, Nicha Kamnerdmanee, scored two ‘A’s, the highest possible score that a student can achieve on the Cambridge International Exam. Her high IGCSE (Cambridge) scores will earn her a seat at University in Thailand, directly from class ten, without having to attend classes eleven and twelve.
Tenzing Choeden Namgyal also produced excellent results, scoring ‘A’ s in three subjects. Simrin Tamhane and Kushan Battacharya obtained ‘A’ s in two subjects and Shagun Limboo scored an’A’ in one. The IGCSE exams are recognized and highly respected by Universities throughout India as well as abroad, the release mentions.
Taktse is adding an eleventh grade this year (2012).  In February, four students will continue their studies in class eleven at Taktse, beginning the  two-year syllabus that culminates in the A-levels (class twelve board exams) in 2013, the release informs.
The Taktse Board and Principal have congratulated all eight students for their hard work and excellent scores. The Taktse Board, the release adds, “is pleased that Taktse’s emphasis on reading, high expectations, and intensive teacher training is producing results”.

Hissey elected to Rajya Sabha

GANGTOK, 25 Jan: Former Minister Hissey Lachungpa, the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front candidate for the Rajya Sabha, received the Certificate of Election to Rajya Sabha from the Returning Officer, Sikkim Legislative Assembly Secretary, D Rinchen, at the SLA premises today. 

The former Minister and three-time MLA from North Sikkim was elected unopposed to Sikkim’s lone seat in Rajya Sabha. He was serving as the Political Advisor to the Chief Minister before filing his candidature.  Mr Lachungpa filed his nomination papers on 20 January after he was announced as the SDF candidate by the Parliamentary Committee of the party. Mr Lachungpa’s nomination was supported by four MLAs - Bhim Prasad Dhungel, Beg Bahadur Rai, Menlom Lepcha and Dorjee Namgyal. 

Today’s function was also attended by the SLA Speaker, KT Gyaltsen, Ministers, MLAs, Gangtok Municipal Corporation members and supporters of Mr Lachungpa, who later on congratulated him by offering khadas. 

Speaking to media-persons after receiving the confirmation of his election to the Rajya Sabha, Mr Lachungpa expressed his deep gratitude towards the SDF president, Chief Minister Pawan Chamling, SDF family, well wishers and people of Sikkim for putting their trust and responsibility on him. 

He stated that he will pursue Sikkim’s pending issues with the Centre and raise new issues of the State in the Upper House and work in favour of the people of Sikkim during his whole tenure. 

“I will try my best to work for better coordination between the state and the centre for the welfare of Sikkim and its people,” Mr. Lachungpa said.

National Voter’s Day observed in Gangtok

GANGTOK, 25 Jan [IPR]: National Voters’ Day was observed here at Chintan Bhawan today in a function organized by the Election Department, Government of Sikkim. The main purpose behind the celebration was to increase the enrollment in order to attain Universal Adult Franchise for effective and successful democratic system. The Chief Secretary, Karma Gyatso chaired the occasion as the chief guest along with Addl. Chief Secretary, Development Commissioner, DGP and Chief Electoral Officer.
The Chief Secretary in his address stated that India is a country inhabited by people of different castes and languages, attributing to its richness and vivacity, have also its diversity to discuss the sense of unity and integrity, which binds together the people all over the country. The Election Commission of India lays great emphasis on enrolment of all eligible voters in the electoral roll.
The Chief Secretary said that the Commission carries out Summary Revision of Electoral Rolls every year. In addition to this, there is also a provision of continuous updation of Electoral Rolls in the period between two Summary Revisions. He further added that the Election Commission of India has found that a significant numbers of eligible voters who are 18 years and above are not enrolled in the electoral rolls, inspite of Annual Revision exercise undertaken at the grass root level.
With the view of overcoming this problem of registration of newly eligible voters, the Commission has decided to take up vigorous exercise to identify all eligible voters, who have attained the age of 18 years as on 15 January, every year in the country. Sikkim is also celebrating National Voters' Day on 25 January, every year from 2010.
For preparation of free and fair electoral rolls, the Commission has decided to appoint Booth Level Offices in their polling stations so that the BLOs are expected to prepare an error free electoral roll on the basis of eligibility criteria. Today on 25 January on the occasion of National Voters' Day celebration, the booth level officers in each polling station are felicitating newly registered voters in a brief ceremony in each polling stations.
The newly registered voters will be issued Badges with the Logo of the Commission "Proud to be a Voter, ready to vote". In Sikkim,  there are 3,29,850 voters, out of which, 8,367 nos. of electors are new voters under the age group of 18-19 years and those electors will be provided Electoral Photo ID Cards, he added.
In his address, Chief Electoral Officer, KT Chankapa expressed that the National Voters' Day is a new coinage of the Election Commission of India introduced on the occasion of its diamond jubilee celebration that ended on 25 Jan last year. This is, indeed, a very pragmatic step taken by Election Commission of India. This year also under the directives of Election Commission of India National Voters' Day" is being celebrated today on 25 Jan 2012.

The Chief Electoral Officer also appraised the gathering about the aims and objectives of Voters' day. This day is observed for identification of cent percent eligible voters of the country and provides them with Electoral Photo Identity Cards, inspiring the young generation of the country to take proactive part in democratic system and its way of life, rousing the feeling of pride, honour and glory in the mind of young generation for being citizens of a vast democracy, enlightenment of the voters about their rights and duties, encouraging the voters to caste their votes, enrichment of the democratic systems of India, to ensure the participation of the maximum numbers of voters in elections and to strengthen the function of democracy.
This date is observed particularly for those newly eligible voters who attained the age of 18 years and enrolled during the summary revision of electoral rolls conducted every year with the 1st January as the qualifying date. He informed that the voters' day is being also observed in all the 495 polling stations of the state under the supervision of Booth Level Officers involving representatives of the elected members and other resident of the locality including newly enrolled voters. Similarly, at the Sub-Division and District Level, voters' day is being observed.
While presenting the welcome address, DC East, D Anandan, and also the District Electoral Registration Officer (East) outlined the objectives of celebrating National Voters’ Day and also read out the message of Chief Election Commissioner, Government of India.
On the occasion, Voters’ Pledge was administered by the chief guest to the gathering along with the handing of Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) to15 new voters. Four best Booth Level Officers(BLOs) each from the four districts were also felicitated with  the certificate and cash. The name of the BLOs were Birendra Subba from East District, BB Subba from West, Ongdi Bhutia from North and NL Sharma from the South District respectively.
A documentary film titled ‘India Election a mammoth Democratic Exercise’ was screened by the Election Department and patriotic songs were also presented by the Culture Department.

Korean paragliding team flies in Sikkim

GANGTOK, 25 Jan: An eight member Korean paragliding expedition team was in Sikkim from 14 to 20 Jan. The team was headed by Park Jung Hun and some of the other members of the team were Hong Pil Pyo, Ham Young Min and Song Jin Seok.
A press release informs that the team was given logistic support by “Sikkim Paragliding Adventure Sports Cooperative Society”.
The Korean team was guided by the president of the society Arjun Kr Rai, Vice president Raju Rai and pilot Santosh Rai, during their trip in Sikkim, as the society maintains take-off points at Bulbuley dara, Baliman dara and Chakung Durpiney dara. The Korean team was impressed by the management of the society and technical expertise seeing the flying sites maintained by the society, the release mentions.
Though the weather was not favorable for long distance flights the team managed 3 days of local flying, and on the first day Rinzing Doma Bhutia the lady pilot of the Society also flew with the international team. Impressed by her flying the Korean team appreciated the work done by the Society in training and grooming good pilots in Sikkim, the release states.
The Korean team will be planning another expedition to Sikkim during spring when there will be favorable weather conditions and long flights can be undertaken. They are coordinating with the ”Sikkim Paragliding Adventure Sports Cooperative Society” for the expedition, so there is a possibility that Sikkim’s pilots will also be a part of the international expedition team, the release further adds.

One killed of electrocution in Chungthang

GANGTOK, 25 Jan: One person working at the Teesta Urja construction site at Chungthang is reported to have died of electrocution. According to reports, Hasta Bahadur Rai, working as a field assistant with Abir Infrastructure at Chungthang died of electrocution at the work site. He was a 32 year old resident of Bom Basti, Kalimpong.
He was found by his colleagues in the room above their mess lying on the floor with his face on the heater and his body on fire. This was at around 1:30 pm on 24 January. As soon he was found in this condition, his colleagues immediately disconnected the power but Hasta Bahadur Rai had already succumbed. He was immediately rushed to the Mangan hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Lady caught with drugs in Jorethang

GANGTOK, 25 Jan: A middle-aged lady was arrested by the Jorethang police on 21 January on charges of possession of contraband substances. Source information led the police to raid the rented house of Passang Doma Sherpa, a 41 year old resident of Central Pandam and presently residing at Majhigoan, Jorethang. In the course of the police raid the police recovered 355 capsules of loose spasmo proxyvon and another 75 capsules of N10. The accused is under police custody.

ASDASG granted ‘verbal permission’ for dharna at DAC premises

GANGTOK, 25 Jan: A section of the teaching and non-teaching staff of the Sarva Siksha Abhiyan [SSA] and the Human Resource Development Department [HRDD] aligned under the All Sikkim Departmental Adhoc Staff Group [ASDASG] were today granted ‘verbal permission’ by the Superintendent of Police [East], Dr. MS Tuli to sit for a dharna [in pursuance of their demands] at the District Administrative Centre here at Sichey from 27 January onwards.
It may be informed here that ASDASG members tried to secure the permission yesterday but could not owing to Tuesday being a holiday.
“This morning, we had gone to meet the SP [East] in his office and we explained to him that we were seeking permission to sit for a dharna in front of the DAC premises in pursuance of our demand seeking extension of our tenures under SSA. After hearing us out he gave us his verbal consent on the permission to sit for the dharna,” informed ASDASG member, Tenzing Chopel Bhutia, while speaking to NOW!.
“We have been granted permission to sit for the dharna at the DAC premises from 27 January [11 a.m. to 4 p.m.] and can be extended further if the government does not take any steps,” he stated, adding, “We will be contacting all our ASDASG members in all the four districts to come and join us on 27 January in front of the DAC premises to make this dharna a success as this will not only show our unity but will also highlight our plight.”
“We are just seeking social justice, we are neither a political party nor are we political leaders. This is not the voice of a single person, but the voice of all the adhoc teaching and non-teaching persons from all over the state,” stated another ASDASG member Sachin Pradhan.
Stating that the group is not against the government and are rather its supporters, Netra Kharel expressed that this step has been taken to make their future secure and since most of them are nearing the age bar [to compete for government employment], they have been left with no other option.
Likewise, Bimal Chettri also added that the government should not listen to rumors about the group having any political affiliations. “We only want extension and nothing else”, he stated.

Karatekas complete residential winter coaching camp

GANGTOK, 25 Jan: The 15-day residential winter coaching camp for karatekas of the state concluded at Paljor Stadium indoor gymnasium today.
Fifty karatekas from across the state participated in the camp organized by Sikkim State Karate-Do Association [SSKA] from 12 January. The training was imparted by the SSKA chief coach, BB Subba, who was 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.
On the last day of the camp the Dan Grade examination was also held, which had the 6th degree black belt and SSKA chief coach, Mr Subba as the examiner. The successful candidates received the certificates from Shito Ryu Seko Kai Karate Do India.
Lhamit Lepcha received the 1st degree black belt, while Hem Kumar Rai, Sushmita Rai, Buddha Bir Mangar and Hiya Hang Subba received the 2nd degree black belt, and Bishnu Kumar Rai received the 3rd degree black belt. Likewise, 4th degree black belt was received by Arjun Rai, Bijay Gurung [IRB] and Bhim Bahadur Subba [IRB].
The chief coach stated that the camp was also a preparation camp for the upcoming Sub-Junior and Junior National Karate-do Championships. He stated that another objective of the coaching camp was to engage youth in sporting and productive activities and to teach new techniques and skills.
He informed that the camp concentrated on the Kumete [Fighting] skills and on teaching score system skills to score more during fights. The camp had a number of new players this time.

Sikkim U-9 football team reaches BC Roy Memorial finals

GANGTOK, 25 Jan: Sikkim U-19 boys football team will clash against Haryana on 26 January in the Semi-Final (Orissa Chapter) match to be played at Cuttack, Orissa in the 48th Junior National Football Championship for Dr. B.C. Roy Trophy, informs a press release.
In the other semi-final match Kerala will meet UP. Sikkim has reached the Semi-Final after defeating J&K by 2-0 margin and after both matches with Chhattisgarh and Gujarat ended in a goalless draw, the release informs.
The tournament was instituted by the AIFF in 1962. It was known as the Junior Nationals and was restricted to boys under 19 years. The Indian Football Association (IFA) of West Bengal presented this trophy in memory of the former Chief Minister of Bengal, Dr BC Roy, the release mentions.
The then president of the IFA, M Dutta Ray also presented the runners up trophy, known as the Mohan Dutta Ray trophy. The first Junior Nationals were held in Burnpur and Bengal emerged as the champions beating Orissa in the finals, the release adds. Bengal is the most successful team in this competition, being a sixteen-time winner and five-time runners up.

Suicide intervention discussed in St Xavier’s, Pakyong

GANGTOK, 25 Jan: CARE [Concerned for Complete Life] a self supporting registered NGO was invited by Sikkim Catholic Youth to give a deliberation and presentation on "Probable Prevention of Suicide" at St. Xavier's School, Pakyong on 24 January, informs a press release.
CARE was represented by Milan Rai and Ongdup Lepcha. The main focus of the discourse was to be aware of the signs, symptoms and intervention of suicide and how to handle vulnerable conditions among the youth of Sikkim, the release informs.
Along with the amalgamation of the biblical perspective and presentation, CARE was successful in spreading the message on the preciousness and sustenance of life, the release mentions. Around 200 youth participated in the seminar.
From its inception in 2006 CARE has been organizing various seminars and workshops in different areas of Sikkim through radio play, skits and presentations, the release adds.

Awareness on labour welfare reaches Chungthang

CHUNGTHANG, 25 Jan:  The Department of Labour, North District held its second day of awareness on welfare benefits to the workers of Chungthang on 24 January at the dam site of 1200 MW H/E Project. The function was chaired by SDM Chungthang RK Yadav and began with a two-minute silence for those who lost their lives in the 18 September earthquake.
In his welcome speech, the Deputy Commissioner Labour Department, North briefed on the Implementation of Building and Other Construction Welfare (RECS) Act 1996 and distribution of Welfare Benefits to Registered Beneficiary workers in North Sikkim.  He further highlighted about labour welfare and informed that the workers who work continuously for three months or more in a particular establishment may obtain the relevant forms from the Labour department for registration of workers and beneficiary after deposition of required fee as per the Rules.    
Apart from it, the beneficiaries will get welfare facilities based on their needs like medicine, injury compensation, death compensation etc. The Deputy Commissioner further mentioned that the workers should get Sunday as a paid holiday and added that if they are entitled to work on a Sunday then the workers should be paid with double wages.
He also spoke on the timely payment of wages to the laborers and safety measures to be undertaken at the work site.  
The chief guest, SDM Chungthang, while addressing the workers informed that there should be coordination among the workers and the management for better implementation of work and further appealed to the workers to be united.  The SDM stressed on avoiding working overtime because of health concerns and urged them to give time to family as well. He further appealed to the workers to ensure that safety measures are taken while working and also added that every worker should be aware about this Act.
The function concluded with the vote of thanks by Brig. Ranjit Mishra (Sr. DGM AIPL)
The function was also attended by Panchayat President Chungthang, Lendup Lepcha, officials from Labour Department, officials from the Power Project and the workers from SEW and Navayuga Engineering Company, sub contractors under Teesta Urja Company.
A total of 510 registered laborers were provided with one blanket and one hot case each from the department during the day. Similarly, an awareness programme was also held today at Theng Adit II for the labourers of Abir Infrastructures Pvt. Ltd. where the function was chaired by Brig. Ranjit Mishra (Sr. DGM AIPL).
A total of 450 labourers were provided with one blanket and one hot case each from the department after the function here.

Proficiency development training for science teachers of South dist concludes

NAMCHI, 25 Jan: Proficiency development training for graduate teachers teaching science from different government schools of South district concluded today at Namchi Girls Senior Secondary school which had started on 16 January. The training was organized by SCERT, Human Resource Development Department, Gangtok and sponsored by Sarva Siksha Abhiyan (SSA).
In the valedictory function held today, Deputy Director HRDD (South), BR Bista was present as the chief guest. Addressing the function Deputy Director SCERT, DK Rai informed that the ten-day programme focused on bringing about proficiency development and personal competency amongst the participants. Teachers must use the knowledge that they have learnt during this training programme to improve the environment in the
teaching-learning process, he said.
He further informed that though the training programme was organized during the winter vacation yet the teachers have actively participated and he congratulated all the participants for their effort in making this training programme successful. Mr Rai also thanked the resource person for their coordination during the training programme.
Chief guest Deputy Director HRDD (S), BR Bista said that proficiency development
training for teachers is important in order to provide better education for the younger
generation since the knowledge will be passed on to the students.
During the programme the teachers were also awarded certificates and the programme was also addressed by Principal NGSS, Archana Gurung. The programme was also attended by resource persons DK Sharma PGT NSSS, P Sutradhar PGT NSSS, Usha
Pradhan PGT NSSS, Shyam Kr. Pradhan PGT NGSS.

15-day Sikkim Snow & Culture fest to power tourism recovery mission

SIKKIM YOUTH ADVENTURE FEST TO FOLLOW IMMEDIATELY AFTER
ANAND OBEROI
GANGTOK, 24 Jan: The Sikkim Snow & Culture Festival, jointly organized by the Tourism Department, TAAS, SHRA and various village tourism development committees, is all set to commence from 14 February and conclude on 29 February. The event, aimed as a ‘recovery mission’ for the tourism industry devastated by the 18 Sept Earthquake, will seek to showcase afresh to prospective visitors and announce that ‘normalcy’ has returned to Sikkim and that it was still safe, pristine and peaceful like it has always been.
Tourism Minister, Bhim Dhungel, unveiled plans for the Fest at a press conference here today. Accompanied by the Tourism Secretary, R Telang, TAAS president, Lukendra Rasaily, SHRA president, Bhanu Rasaily, TAAS general secretary, Norgay Lachungpa and SHRA general secretary, Prashant Subedi, the Minister also released the Sikkim Snow & Culture Fest stickers, posters, T-Shirts and launched the official website, www.sikkimsnowfest.com.
Although the fest falls in a lean period of the tourist season, the organisers expect around 55,000 tourists to till make it here. The State government, it is informed, is promoting the event through different media houses across the country and organizing press conferences in all the cities where there are Sikkim Houses to announce the fest.
Many travel writers of repute have also been invited to Sikkim to cover the event, it is informed.
The festival will highlight the culture, nature, adventure activities in Sikkim and will also include a series of talent hunt exercises.
Amongst the various activities lined up for the tourists are adventure activities such as mountain biking, rallies & races, trekking, camping, angling, skiing, paragliding, rock climbing, river rafting, treasure hunt competition, zorbing, kayaking, hot air balloons, paint ball shooting, which will be organized at venues throughout the state.
Further, there will be exhibition and sale counters of paintings, handicrafts, drift woods, flower shows, factory produce from Sikkim, and mountaineering equipment on display. Along with entertainment activities such as cultural shows, food festivals, yak rides, Singye dances and fashion shows, there will also be country music contest, folk song contests, dance contests, beauty pageants, beat contest and Valentine’s Day special programme.
Tour packages, trekking, customised tours to pilgrimage destinations and even ice hockey and golf at the highest golf course in the world will also be organized with the support of the Indian Army.
The events are open for all including locals.
It was also informed that the Snow & Culture Fest 2012 will be followed by the Sikkim Youth Adventure Fest which will continue throughout the year.
In this regard, the Tourism Minister stated, “These fests will restore tourist traffic to Sikkim to what it was prior to the earthquake. The Mission will be used as a tool to rejuvenate the businesses, rekindle the enthusiasm of the tourism stakeholders and most importantly restore the position of Sikkim as the most favoured eco-tourism destination on the tourism map of the country and the world”.
He added that the State Government has pledged full support to the mission under the leadership of the Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling, and would continue to guide its course through the year.
“The fest is being organized for the economic benefit of the local stakeholders and also promotes quality tourism instead of quantity. This is a collective effort since it is a mammoth task we have at hand. The fest will also be an aggressive marketing strategy which will recover the tourism industry which has been affected due to the earthquake. Everything will change for the better now since almost all rebuilding and rehabilitation works are over,” stated the Tourism Minister.

Protesting SSA group to seek permission for dharna and continue trying to meet CM

GANGTOK, 24 Jan: Around 30 members of the All Sikkim Departmental Adhoc Staff Group [ASDASG] teaching and non-teaching staff of the Sarva Siksha Abhiyan [SSA] under the Human Resource Development Department [HRDD], who had gathered at the District Administrative Centre here at Sichey this morning seeking permission to sit for a dharna to press for their demands from the Superintendent of Police [East] Office had to return disappointed as today was a Government holiday.
“They wanted to meet the SP [East], but today being a government holiday the office of the SP [East] was closed and so I requested them to return tomorrow morning when the office reopens and meet the SP [East] regarding the permission,” informed Sub Divisional Magistrate, East, Dr AB Karki while speaking to NOW!
“Initially they were agitated and angry at being let down, but then I explained to them the procedures that have to be followed for obtaining such permissions and that this was not the right way to do things,” he said.
Meanwhile, Jigmee Bhutia, a member of the ASDASG, while speaking to NOW! later, informed that they had no idea that today was a holiday and that it was only when they reached the DAC premises that they came to know that today was a Government holiday.
“We could not meet the SP to apply for the permission, but we still wanted to sit for the dharna there. It was only after the assurance and guidance of the SDM [East] that we left from the DAC premises”, he added.
“On Wednesday, we will come and meet the SP [East] and seek his permission to sit for the dharna, and if we are not given permission for the dharna, we will go ahead with our hunger strike in front of the DAC,” he stated further adding that half of them will seek permission for the dharna, while the other half will seek an appointment with the Chief Minister, tomorrow morning.
The SDPO [East] and the PI of the Sadar Police Station were also present at the DAC today to control the situation from getting out of hand.

IRBn recruitment results to be announced on 25 Jan

GANGTOK, 24 Jan: Continuing with its efforts to undertake the largest recruitment drive ever at one go in the State, the India Reserve Battalion [IRBn], Sikkim, is going to announce the final results of the recruitment of  500 jawans for its two newly raised Battalions on 25 January. These will be available on the notice boards of all the police stations, offices of all the SDPOs, offices of all the District SPs and the Police Headquarters in Gangtok, after 10 AM on 25 Jan. Besides, these will also be available at the official website of the Sikkim Police i.e. www.sikkimpolice.nic.in.
Briefing media persons in this regard, the Inspector General of the Armed Police, Akshay Sachdeva said that the final results have been based on each candidate’s individual performance in physical, written and oral tests conducted last year. He stated that the selected candidates will be required to report at the Police headquarters, during the working hours between 01 to 11 February, barring the public holidays and Sundays, along with their original documents.
He further added that they will have to bring with them Sikkim Subject Certificate, Date of Birth certificate, Reserved Category certificate, Qualification certificate and the Employment Card. The selected candidates will have to undergo medical fitness tests and character verification, before joining the India Reserve Battalion, Sikkim, which will have an all India posting liability, informed.
The Inspector General of the Armed Police revealed that despite a fifty per cent i.e. 250 seats being reserved for Home Guards, only 22 such candidates could get through and rest of the seats went to the open category, as was stipulated in the advertisement itself, bringing the total of selected candidates from the open category to 478. He made it clear that they too will get reservations as per the State Government norms.
It may be mentioned here that the viva-voce for the recuritment had taken place on 15, 16, 18, 21 and 22 of November, 2011 at the Sikkim Police Headquarters in Gangtok. About 5,000 candidates had appeared for the physical efficiency test held in all the four districts between 21 July to 06 August, 2011. Some 1,400 of them were cleared for the written test held at four centres on 28 August, 2011. West Point School and the TNA in Gangtok were the centres for the East and North districts, while JNV, Rothak in West district and Government Senior Secondary School, Namchi were the examination centres for the West and South districts.

SSSO to host 3-month long Vasanta Mahotsav in Gangtok

GANGTOK, 24 Jan: Sri Sathya Sai Organisation for Gangtok and the North District is all set to organise Saraswati Puja, along with Vasanta Mahotsav-2012 from 28 January till 29 April at Thakurbari.
Addressing a press conference here in the capital today, the chief coordinator of the organising committee, Kiran Rasaily, informed that the Mahotsav will feature exhibitions, seminars, workshops on various forms of art at the Thakurbari complex.
The Mahotsav is scheduled to be inaugurated by the HRD Minister, NK Pradhan, on 29 January. Likewise, the inaugural tutorial class for the children on various subjects covering academic and art education will also be provided.
A major attraction of the Mahotsav begins from 29 January till 11 February with an exhibition, workshop on drawing, painting and sculpture along with literary session every Sunday. Also, throughout the fest, exhibition and seminar on wildlife photography by Sikkim Ornithological Society, photo shoot session on the theme of ‘Emotion’, Graphic Design and Creative, Applied arts, inspirational songs, bhakti geet, skit competition on Hindu mythology, art and craft exhibition for college students, art and craft events for school students.
From 01 to 21 April, the inauguration of the India International Photographic Council- Sikkim and North-east chapter at Gangtok along with international, national level exhibition of photography and workshop on portraiture, fashion and production, journalism, digital photography, cinematography, nature, wildlife and festivals.
From 24 April onwards, prayers and devotional songs, exhibition of the photographs depicting the great moments of Sai Baba’s life will be showcased and on 29 April the valedictory function will be held.
Mr. Rasaily further mentioned that the co-organizers of the programme are fine arts - Oviya Art Circle, Gangtok; Wildlife Photography- Sikkim Ornithological Society; Sculpture, Craft and Fine Arts- Vikas Kala Akademi [VIKAS]; National, international exhibition of photographs, seminar, workshop by India International Photographic Council, Delhi; Exhibition of Photographs on Nature and Himalayas by Ashok Dilwali [Delhi]; Graphic Design, Creative Art, Applied Art by GM Pahari [Government College of Art, Kolkata]; Literature by Vichar Kala Sangam, Gangtok, Performing Art by Various artists and Sai youth and Photo Journalism, Creative Photography by Third Eye, Kolkata.

Singhi Cham at Lingthem Monastery

LINGTHEM, 24 Jan:  A weeklong Singhi Cham concluded at the Rikzing Choephel Targayling, Monastery at Lingthem in Upper Dzongu on 23 January. Organized by the public and the gumpa committee, the rituals had begun on 17 January.
This auspicious Singhi Cham is held every three years at the monastery with the devout believing that it benefits all the people and propitiates the Gods for world peace. Despite the remoteness of the village, the monastery was packed with the devotees on the final day.
Around 70 monks of the monastery, including the Omje and Dorjee Lopen, recited the special prayers - gyaldep – through the seven days. Kawang was bestowed on the people on the final day.
On the penultimate day, the chyam was attended by the area MLA, Power Minister Sonam Gyatso Lepcha accompanied by the DC North, TN Kazi,  DDO Chewang Gyatso Bhutia, Chairman Milk Union, Choden Lepcha, former chairman Chumki Saring Lepcha, MNP councillor Pappu Kumar Mallu, Panchayat members, officials and the devotees.
Legden Lepcha, the Tsultrimpha of the monastery, while speaking to NOW! informed that the monastery was established in the year 1854 by Lama Zogchen Singrap Gyatso. Only the Tholung Monastery is of older vintage in Dzogu. He also informed that the main purpose for the Singhi Chyam was to eradicate bad karmas and seek world peace.

UIDAI report on biometric technology confirms its accuracy and reliability

GANGTOK, 24 Jan: The UIDAI has released a report titled ‘The Role of Biometric Technology in Aadhaar Enrollment’ which confirms that the enrollment system has proven to be reliable, accurate and scalable to meet the nation’s need of providing unique Aadhaar numbers to the entire population, informs a press release.
The report is the outcome of a detailed analysis of the biometric accuracy and performance based on 8.4 crore Aadhaar enrollments.
It has been affirmed that UIDAI’s biometric capability for enrolments is ready to handle high throughput (10 lakh Aadhaars per day), accuracy (99.965% on duplication detection) and scale (database can be of 1.2 billion people). The UIDAI since issuing the first Aadhaar number on 29 Sept 2010 in Tembhali, Maharashtra has issued over 10 crore Aadhaar numbers as of 31 Dec 2011, making it one of the largest biometric systems in the world, the release mentions.
The primary design decisions that have enabled achievement of this high degree of accuracy and scale are: combining both 10 finger prints and 2 iris has greatly improved accuracy of de-duplication; the multi-ABIS solution architecture [three biometric service providers] has contributed to lowering costs, increasing throughput and fine-tuning accuracy; the highly scalable architecture based on open components and commodity hardware has made this ramp-up possible.
On the effectiveness of biometric technology in the Indian context with large number of rural/agricultural workers, the release mentions that the analysis has shown that the ‘Failure to Enroll’ (FTE) rate of the UIDAI Biometric system is at: 0.14%.  This implies that 99.86% of the population can be uniquely identified by the biometric system.
Even the exceptions (0.14%) are checked manually and processed. The False Negative Identification Rate (FNIR) of the UIDAI system is computed to be as low as 0.035%. This implies that 99.965% of all duplicates submitted to the biometric de-duplication system are correctly caught by the system as duplicates.
According to the release, Chairman, UIDAI, Nandan Nilekani said “The UIDAI biometric system is processing over 100 trillion biometric person matches with a high degree of accuracy each day capable of issuing 10 lakh Aadhaars daily. This makes it not only one of the most accurate but soon to be the largest biometric system in the world.”
Director General, UIDAI, RS Sharma said “This certainly gives us a high degree of confidence in executing this project of national importance with scale and accuracy.”

Upreti welcomes fresh petition against CM

GANGTOK, 24 Jan: Senior vice president of the Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee [SPCC], KN Upreti, has welcomed the fresh petition filed in the Supreme Court by Delay Namgyal Kazi and Pema Dadul against Chief Minister Pawan Chamling and his Cabinet Ministers on various charges of corruption and misuse of public funds.
A press release issued by Mr Upreti states that following the withdrawal of a similar PIL on behalf of the Congress party filed earlier by Kunga Nima Lepcha and the subsequent silence on the issue has proven that the SPCC president Nar Bahadur Bhandari and Mr Lepcha have betrayed the party and the people.
The release further commends the efforts of Delay Namgyal Kazi and Pema Dadul.

Mangshila residents conduct peace prayers at accident site on the Singtam-Dikchu highway

MANGAN, 24 Jan:  The residents of Mangshilla in North Sikkim observed two days of peace prayers at 4th mile on the Singtam-Dikchu highway on 23 and 24 January under the supervision of Sirijunga Manghim Committee.  The prayers were held at the spot where recently seven tourists were killed in an accident.
On its first day, the prayers were conducted by the lamas with the “Zenshi” prayers and on the second day, puja was performed by Fedangmas (Limboo Priests) with participation of people from all walks of life.
President Sirijunga Mangheem Committee, Mak Raj Limboo informed that a number of accidents have been reported on this stretch which also poses risks for villagers crossing this spot in the evenings.  He also added that the spot between Namok Khola and 5th mile has recorded a high number of accidents in the past and many have lost their lives.

SHRPP to celebrate 10th anniv on 02 Feb

GANGTOK, 24 Jan: The Sikkim Himali Rajya Parishad Party’s CEC meeting held here at the residence of its party president Dr. AD Subba at Tadong today decided to celebrate the party’s 10th anniversary on a somber note on 02 February.
The meeting also discussed the latest petition filed in the Supreme Court against the Chief Minister and the State Government. While welcoming 23 January Supreme Court notice to the Central Government, CBI, Chief Minister and his cabinet colleagues, Dr. Subba demanded that the Chief Minister resign from his post on moral grounds and allow CBI to carry out an independent investigation into the allegations.