Spices Board holds demo for electric cardamom dryer

MANGAN, 26 Nov: The Spices Board conducted a display and demonstration of a mechanical dryer developed exclusively for Sikkim’s large cardamom by Chennai-based Kardi Dryer Pvt Ltd.
The demonstration was conducted at ICRI, Spices Board farm at Pangthang in East Sikkim from 24-28 November.
This mechanical dryer helps to retain colour and maintain consistent quality which helps fetch better prices for the large cardamom.  This dryer is fully automatic and can be run by only one operator.  It requires electricity and can also run on fuel [diesel, kerosene, LPG or firewood].
The said machine can dry 200 kg of large cardamom at a time. The State Horticulture Officers from Sikkim headed by Principal Director Horticulture, DK Rai, Additional Director Horticulture, GP Chawan, along with officials from Spices Board visited the display and demonstration centre at Pangthang today.   KM Manikandan, MD Kardi Dryer explained about the operation of the dryer.
The demonstration will also be held in Kalimpong, Darjeeling District of West Bengal from 29 Nov - 01 Dec. A brief training on operating the machine was also provided to department officials by the company.

Bodybuilders win two bronze medals at Mr. Eastern India c’ship REBYNA RANA

GANGTOK, 26 Nov: Two bodybuilders from Sikkim State Bodybuilding Association [SSBA] have returned with two bronze medals from the 11th Mr. Eastern India Bodybuilding & 4th Women Fitness Championship 2013 held on 22-23 November 2013 at Rourkela, Odisha.
The championship was organized by the Odisha Body Building & Fitness Association where more than 100 participants from the nation participated. Two SSBA members, Pema Dorjee Bhutia [70 above kg], who’s also the Mr. Sikkim [2009] and Llyod Hazarika [70 kg] participated in the championship. The team was led by Team Manager cum national level judge, IB Gurung along with Coach cum national level judge, Sunil Gurung.
“It wasn’t easy at all to compete with such strong contestants who had come from different parts of the nation but I gave my best and am happy with my performance,” said Pema Dorjee Bhutia during a press conference held here in the capital today.
“This is my seventh time at the championship where I have won silver and bronze medals four times. I hope to win gold in the upcoming championships and make the state as well as SSBA proud”, he stated.
Chief State Coach [SSBBA], IB Gurung, said that he is satisfied with the performance of the state’s body builders. He expressed gratitude to the public of Sikkim for their support. Coach Sunil Gurung also addressed the gathering today.
An SSBA team is all set to participate in the All India Federation Cup 2014 slated to be held in the month of February 2014 at Midnapur, Kolkata.

SDF counters SKM allegations on West Sikkim violence

GANGTOK, 26 Nov: Sikkim Democratic Front has accused Sikkim Krantikari Morcha workers of assaulting one of their party workers, Kharka Bahadur Gurung of Saradung under Maneybung-Dentam constituency on 25 November near Kaluk Police Station in West Sikkim.
In a press release, SDF has condemned the assault and contends that the incident reveals the true colors of the SKM party. The SDF party is a political party with ethics and respects the law while working for the upliftment of the people, states the release further demanding immediate action against those involved. The ruling party has also advised SKM to indulge in ideology-based politics instead of using violence.
The party has said that Kharka Bahadur Gurung has sustained grievous injuries and has been admitted at Central Referral Hospital here.
Meanwhile, speaking to NOW! over the phone, Senior SP [West] DB Giri confirmed that an altercation did take place between SDF and SKM party workers at Kaluk yesterday and that an FIR has been lodged at the Kaluk Police Station, but as of now no arrests have been made. The people involved will be arrested in the coming days, he added.
It may be mentioned that on Sunday, SKM has accused the SDF of pelting stones at Som basti in West Sikkim. SKM workers returning from a meeting held at Mangalbaria, Chakung had allegedly been pelted with stones by SDF workers, leaving three of them injured.

Trout rearing farm inaugurated in Rabom

MANGAN, 26 Nov: Animal Husbandry Minister, Dawcho Lepcha, inaugurated a trout-rearing farm at Rabom in Lachen, North Sikkim, on Monday accompanied by area MLA Lachen Mangan, TW Lepcha, Secretary AH, LF&VS, DP Sharma, DC North CP Dhakal and other officials. The Minister also inaugurated a shed at the Angora Rabbit Rearing centre and a 10-unit Tibetan Mastiff Conservation cum Breeding Centre.
Constructed at the cost of Rs. 93,47,346, the trout rearing farm has a two-storied RCC framed structure comprising of the trout hatcher unit cum RO’s office with quarter, welcome gate and approach road while the Angora Rabbit Rearing Shed has been constructed at the cost of Rs. 25 lakh holds a total capacity of 350 rabbits.  The Tibetan Mastiff Conservation cum Breeding Centre has been constructed at the cost of Rs 25 lakh.
The Deputy Director [Mangan], KT Bhutia, explained that the Tibetan Mastiff Breeding Centre while the Deputy Director Chungthang explained about the Angora rabbit rearing shed.
A short function was held where the Secretary AH, LF&VS, DP Sharma, underlined the benefits of animal husbandry through which people can earn a lot without putting in much effort.
The area MLA Lachen-Mangan appealed to all the people of the area to take up trout farming as it is not suitable for low lying areas. He further urged the department to provide the scheme only to farmers who are genuinely interested.
The chief guest, in his address, urged people to take advantage of benefits provided by the government. The function concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by SK Subba, Joint Director North.
Earlier, the Minister also laid the foundation stone of the biodiversity park at Naga in North Sikkim, which is located next to the multipurpose cultural house and Bongthing school. The park is estimated to cost Rs. 1.5 crore and in the first phase Rs. 50 lakh has been released by the department of AVLF&VS, including land compensation of the project site which is executed by NDZP.
The Minister and Secretary, AHLF&VS also visited the new Bongthing house and museum and the Mangan dairy plant (chilling plant).
The Sikkim Lepcha Association North district branch has urged the Minister to request the Chief Minister to officially inaugurate the Bongthing House during the upcoming Janta Mela.

ONGC lifts Chief Minister’s Gold Cup

JORETHANG, 25 Nov: ONGC Mumbai lifted the All India Chief Minister’s Gold Cup here today, outplaying Air India 02-01.
Chief Minister Pawan Chamling was present as the chief guest of the final match accompanied by his Cabinet colleagues, MLAs, Chairpersons and Heads of various Departments and government officials.
Entry for the match was made free today by the organizing committee as the ruling SDF party announced to sponsor free passes for all.
ONGC scored the first goal of the match in the 15th minute itself. A cross from Sachin [22] from the right corner was beautifully converted by L. Fernandes (12) of ONGC giving it an early lead.
Air India launched a stronger attack after this but failed to score an equalizer.
In the 40th minute, Kailash Patil [13], assisted again by Sachin, beautifully netted another goal from the same right corner for ONGC. The score remained in favour of ONGC Mumbai 2-0 till half time.
The match became more interesting in the second half as Air India entered the ground with new spirit and launched another round of concerted offense. As a result, in the early minutes of the second half, Air India opened its account with a goal from skipper LN Dias [24] keeping the team’s hopes alive.
Both teams kept attacking till the end of the match. During injury time, Air India lost a good opportunity to level the score. The shot made by Air India striker missed the ONGC goal post and at the final whistle the scoreline stood at 2-1 in favour of ONGC Mumbai.
The winning team of ONGC Mumbai was awarded with the cash prize of Rs. One lakh along with the winner’s trophy while Air India received Rs. 50,000 an a trophy. The Chief Minister presented these awards to the winning and runner up team.
Earlier, the Chief Minister was accorded a traditional welcome by the organizing committee of South District Football Association. Area MLA Zoom-Salghari constituency, Madan Cintury, delivered the welcome address in which he presented a brief report on the tournament.
SDFA general secretary, Kamal Chettri, while delivering the vote of thanks stated that the organizing committee of SDFA is grateful to the Chief Minister for his support to the Association due to which the tournament was successfully conducted at Jorethang.
Students of Eklavya Model Residential School, Gangyap, St. Francis School, Jorethang, Tendong Educational Institute Namchi and Ekta Sangh of Tadong presented a welcome song and colourful cultural presentations. The paragliders greeted the finalists from the sky with a shower of flowers which was also enjoyed by the crowd. Bursting of fire crackers marked the closing of the tournament.

Training of Trainers on earthquake resilient construction

GANGTOK, 25 Nov: State Level Training of Trainers Workshop was conducted on 22 November with the objective to provide refresher training to 100 participants mostly the Assistant Engineers and Junior Engineers who are implementing the Reconstruction of Earthquake Damaged Rural Houses (REDRH) project. The Chief Engineer, RMDD along with his technical team from the RM&DD Head Office functioned as the master trainers for this workshop.
The Rural Management and Development Department (RMDD) is implementing the REDRH Project with an aim to reconstruct the 7,972 houses fully and severely damaged by the earthquake in 2011.
As per a press release, the project aims to change the construction practice permanently, recognising that earthquake-resilient house construction will only become common if the right technology is locally available, widely known, culturally accepted and competitively priced. The project has been mentoring local masons (raj mistri) and their assistants (mistri) to provide hands-on design and construction assistance directly to homeowners. Consequently, more than 200 engineers and 500 masons and their assistants now have the expertise to build earthquake resistant houses.
In order to further strengthen this capacity building initiative and train a further 1,000 masons in all corners of the State, 31 Mason Training Workshops are to be conducted in all the Blocks of the State. These workshops are funded under the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF), Land Revenue and Disaster management Department.
During the workshop, the REDRH Mason Training Handbook, developed in English, Nepali and Hindi were distributed along with the CD containing the video clippings on the lessons learnt and common pitfalls during construction. All the AEs, JEs, DE (Zilla), GVAs and ADC (Development) attended the workshop and actively participated in the discussions.

Stakeholders condemn SKM member’s comment on tourism industry

GANGTOK, 25 Nov: Travel Agents Association of Sikkim [TAAS], Sikkim Association of Adventure Tour Operators [SAATO] and Sikkim Hotels & Restaurants Association [SHRA], in a joint press release issued on behalf of all tourism stakeholders have condemned the statement ascribed to Pabitra Bhandari, formerly of Nepali daily Hamro Prajashakti who joined Sikkim Krantikari Morcha on Sunday. They have demanded that she tender an apology to all the tourism stakeholders of the state.
In a press release, the three organisations have stated that the statement made on the tourism industry by Ms. Bhandari was “unethical” and “an attempt to defame the young and growing tourism industry of Sikkim”.
A news-report published in her former newspaper today quotes Ms. Bhandari as alleging that under the SDF government “flesh trade was prospering in the name of tourism in Sikkim”. She is reported to have made the statement while addressing an SKM meeting at Mangalbaria in West Sikkim on Sunday.
“This statement has hurt the sentiments of the tourism stakeholders of Sikkim especially when Tourism Department, stakeholders and NGOs of the tourism industry have nurtured the tourism industry with their sincere and selfless hard work,” the release stresses.
The statement, they add, “will tarnish the image of Sikkim and its people especially the women of Sikkim”. Any “adverse, baseless or negative comments will give a wrong picture of the state to the outside world”, they have added. Warning of legal action, they have further demanded that an apology be tendered to the tourism stakeholders of Sikkim especially the women who are equally involved in the tourism sector.

Stakeholders condemn SKM member’s comment on tourism industry

GANGTOK, 25 Nov: Travel Agents Association of Sikkim [TAAS], Sikkim Association of Adventure Tour Operators [SAATO] and Sikkim Hotels & Restaurants Association [SHRA], in a joint press release issued on behalf of all tourism stakeholders have condemned the statement ascribed to Pabitra Bhandari, formerly of Nepali daily Hamro Prajashakti who joined Sikkim Krantikari Morcha on Sunday. They have demanded that she tender an apology to all the tourism stakeholders of the state.
In a press release, the three organisations have stated that the statement made on the tourism industry by Ms. Bhandari was “unethical” and “an attempt to defame the young and growing tourism industry of Sikkim”.
A news-report published in her former newspaper today quotes Ms. Bhandari as alleging that under the SDF government “flesh trade was prospering in the name of tourism in Sikkim”. She is reported to have made the statement while addressing an SKM meeting at Mangalbaria in West Sikkim on Sunday.
“This statement has hurt the sentiments of the tourism stakeholders of Sikkim especially when Tourism Department, stakeholders and NGOs of the tourism industry have nurtured the tourism industry with their sincere and selfless hard work,” the release stresses.
The statement, they add, “will tarnish the image of Sikkim and its people especially the women of Sikkim”. Any “adverse, baseless or negative comments will give a wrong picture of the state to the outside world”, they have added. Warning of legal action, they have further demanded that an apology be tendered to the tourism stakeholders of Sikkim especially the women who are equally involved in the tourism sector.

SKM women’s wing observes International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women

GANGTOK, 25 Nov: Sikkim Krantikari Morcha’s Nari Morcha, its women’s wing, today observed International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women here at the party office and deliberated on various issues related to women and domestic violence.
An official SKM press release informs that the daylong programme was chaired by party general secretary [organization] Kala Rai and was attended by a large number of women party activists.
The meeting also focused on the importance of the day and highlighted issues like sexual harassment in the work place and public places in Sikkim.
SKM party has taken a firm decision that violence against women will not be tolerated in any form and assured that if any violence is reported, the party will make all efforts to provide justice to the victim, the release conveys.

SKM accuses SDF of stone pelting in West Sikkim 3 SKM PARTY WORKERS INJURED, THREE ACCUSED TAKEN INTO CUSTODY

GANGTOK, 25 Nov: Sikkim Krantikari Morcha has accused the Sikkim Democratic Front party workers of grievously injuring SKM members in a stone-pelting incident that occurred on Sunday in West Sikkim.
SKM has condemned the attack and termed the incident as an attempt by the ruling party to suppress people’s voice.
An SKM release alleges that SDF workers pelted stones at SKM members from above the road near Som basti while they were returning from the Mangalbaria meeting. SKM’s Wangdi Lepcha was critically injured while Megnath Basnett and Manorath Dahal also sustained injuries, the release states.
Wangdi Lepcha has sustained serious head injuries and is under treatment at STNM Hospital in Gangtok, it is stated.
Following the stone pelting incident, SKM workers gheraoed the Kaluk Police Station this morning where an FIR against the incident had been filed last night and the accused reportedly taken into custody. SKM has accused the Maneybong Dentam MLA and he close ally of masterminding the attack.
Meanwhile, Kaluk police has arrested three persons on the basis of the FIR, it is informed.

SDF dismisses Opposition allegations as opportunistic poll politicking

GANGTOK, 25 Nov: The Sikkim Democratic Front has countered allegations leveled against by its detractors in the opposition camp. Responding to recent SKM claims [without naming SKM though] of SDF having been “hollowed out”, the party, through a press release, has pointed out that such claims were representative of the desperation of Opposition opportunists who surface on when elections come calling.
The SDF release contends that certain sections were always critical of the ruling party and the State government despite having themselves failed politically to win favour of the people. This section, the release states, has always been obsessed with extracting benefits from the ruling party and the government, hence their leaving or opposition will not make any difference in the party.
The release also turns the argument on SKM by contending that the circulation of CDs purported to have the interview of Gopal Gurung of Mongol Nationalist Organisation, the opposition party was perpetuating his divisive politics even as on surface it was trying to blame the SDF.
The SDF Government, during its 19 years of governance, has provided social justice to all Sikkimese communities, the release highlights, to counter claims that SDF had divided the people.

SDF public outreach programme held in Tadong ward

GANGTOK, 25 Nov: The public outreach programme - ‘Jan Samparka Abhiyan’ - of the Sikkim Democratic Front was held here at Tadong ward of Upper Tadong constituency on Sunday.
A press release informs that the public contact programme covered the College Valley area, Raj Gram [Amar Gram] and Durga Mandir, 6th Mile Tadong. The meetings were attended by area MLA, DB Thapa, Bhasker Basnet [councilor] and others.
The public also participated in the meetings where they placed various demands like jhora, drainage, street light, drinking water supply, footpath, etc, the release adds. The area MLA also addressed the meetings where he informed the public about Government schemes and policy as well.

Marwari Yuva Manch extends support to Mayalmu Sangh

GANGTOK, 25 Nov: Marwari Yuva Manch has extended support to Mayalmu Sangh, a destitute home in Tadong.
In a press release, Ajay Garg informs that the Marwari Yuva Manch provided toothpaste, soaps, medicines etc to the destitute home as per their requirement.
A team comprising of Rahul Rathi, Rohit Rathi, Nimesh Lakhotia, Sachin Agrawal, Dhiraj Bansal and Mahesh Mittal visited the destitute home and assured to provide essential commodities in the days to come as well, the release informs.

When Mountains Sweat, Pay Heed

Editorial:-
Not just experts, even lay people and mass media are now noticing the change in weather patterns all over the world. The mountains are getting warmer, the plains getting colder and weather hitting extremes at unexpected times. All these are symptomatic of Climate Change, a fact that cannot be denied or wished away anymore. Even as the debate continues over the developed world’s attempts at browbeating the third world nations to sacrifice more to manage the world environment, regions close to ice need to get more concerned and start undertaking studies and working solutions on their own. Ice caps – the polar regions and the glacier fields – feel the impact of climate change first. North and west Sikkim are crisscrossed by many glaciers which are the frozen fountains of life for the State. Most times people do not realise the importance of glaciers to Sikkim since life does not directly depend on glacier-fed rivers in Sikkim and most times people tap into mountain springs for water. But such disconnect is only superficial and at the end of the day, the water cycle goes back to glaciers. Hence, the cultivation, the rivers and their hydel potential are all sourced from these glaciers and now that hydro-power has so much invested in it as the economic deliverer for the State, it becomes imperative that the source of this potential is better studied and understood. Sikkim has had its glaciers studied and while the commissioning of the study was welcome, it has to be a continuing effort and a glacier watch needs to be set up. Some of Sikkim’s glaciers have increased, some reports suggest and even that is not necessarily good news. Elsewhere, Himalayan glaciers are reported to be receding at the rate of 10 to 15 metres on an average every year. The longest glacier in the Eastern Himalaya – the 10 mile long Zemu Glacier in north Sikkim is believed by many to not be in the best of healths. This glacier feeds the Teesta on which many hydel projects have been planned. The glaciers of West Sikkim have also been in fast recession for nearly a century now and most of them are hanging glaciers now, their course in the valley now just a litter of glacial debris. Given the fact that 70 percent of the world’s fresh water is frozen in glaciers, it is surprising that not enough is being done to save them and contain their recession. This is probably because the scientists and decision makers prefer the plains and share their data only among their clique and have seldom made their findings coherent enough for the stakeholders to understand. But the problem is already too clear and present to waste time pointing fingers. The finds of the study of glaciers commissioned by the State Government should be considered for inclusion in school curriculums so that the young can grow up learning how things are and then hopefully develop a connection with the canaries of climate change and learn to take better care of the water towers.

Denzong Welfare Association calls on Governor and CM with complaint against AOSS

GANGTOK, 25 Nov: Members of Denzong Welfare Association, Gangtok, led by their president, Phurba Sherpa, called on Governor Shriniwas Patil on 23 November. A press release informs that they submitted a memorandum against the writ petition filed in the Supreme Court by the Association of Old Settlers of Sikkim [AOSS].
The association informed the Governor of its opposition to the arguments made out in writ petition and alleged that AOSS did not respond to their invitation to settle the matter amicably.
The release states that the Governor assured the association complete co-operation and further stated that he would intervene in the matter for the sake of maintaining communal harmony in the state.
The Governor also shared with the association the various initiatives proposed for the benefit of all Sikkimese like the formation of Sikkim Sports Academy.
The association also met Chief Minister Pawan Chamling and submitted a copy of the memorandum. The Chief Minister also assured the association that the Government of Sikkim has taken all steps to safeguard and protect the rights and privileges of all Sikkimese, the release states.
The Chief Minister further directed the association to be more vigilant against activities that could cause disharmony in the Sikkimese society.
DWAG has further lauded some of the works undertaken by the SDF government for the development of the state.

Sarvajanik prayers underway at Development Area

GANGTOK, 25 Nov: Adarsh Samaj of Development Area here, with the help of devotees, is conducting a series of Zensay Puja, Holy Prayer Service and Akhanda Yagya [havan] starting today and scheduled to continue till 12 December .
A press release informs that the Sarwajanik Zensay Puja will be held from 25-27 November performed by Ahtrul Shakya Rinpoche. Chewang will be offered to devotees by the Rinpoche on the closing day of the puja on 27 November.
The Holy Prayer Service will be held on 28 November from 5 PM onwards. The Sarwajanik Shanti Puja will be held from 10-12 December. Adarsh Samaj has invited all devotees to attend the pujas.

DAFFODIL STUDENTS RAISE FUNDS FOR ORPHANAGE

Letters:-
The students of Daffodil’s Home Secondary School visited the ‘Balika Niketan’ orphanage located at Tadong, below Metro Point on Saturday. The students of 9th and 10th standard organized a fete at their school in order to collect some money for the orphanage. Everybody genuinely worked hard. The students sold products that were handmade by them and whatever money was collected they gave it to the orphanage.
The first thing they did on reaching there was interact with the children there. After the interaction, sweets, gifts and other items were distributed. There were 38 children in the orphanage and three wonderful wardens. The orphanage has three dormitories and one kitchen. The children of Balika Niketan are well cared for and protected and looked very happy and confident. They then said goodbye to the students of Daffodil’s Home. The students did a wonderful job and deserve appreciation.
“We cannot do great things but we can do small things with great love” said Mother Teresa and the students of Daffodil’s Home have proved it.
Sabath Angel Gurung

CRH hosts daylong CME on trauma management

GANGTOK, 25 Nov: The Department of Neurosurgery at the Central Referral Hospital on Sunday organised a daylong “Continued Medical Education” session targeted to review the recent trends in managing trauma. This, in view of the inception of  super-speciality wing at CRH, a press release informs.
Dr Sanjeev Bhoi, Additional Medical Superintendent, Additional Professor, AIIMS, and Dr Kapil Dev Soni, Assistant Professor JPN Trauma Centre, AIIMS, were special guests who addressed the CME which included more speakers drawn from various specialities delivering Lectures on their respective fields and aiming at “managing the patient” in the “Golden Hour”, that is the first hour after trauma. Special mention was made for management of the trauma specific to the terrain of Sikkim and the road conditions.
The CME had an attendance of 169 delegates from STNM Hospital, CRH, ITBP, BRO, ESI and other private practitioners from in and around the capital, the release states. Dr. Yogesh Verma, Principal Director and Medical Superintendent STNM Hospital was present as chief guest.
The daylong session ended with a vote of thanks by Dr. Rohan Sinha, Consultant Neuro Surgeon, CRH Secretary Organising Committee for the event.

Child Rights Commission holds consultative programme in West Sikkim

GANGTOK, 25 Nov: “Police personnel are the arms of the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights [SCPCR]  while the support of NGOs, officials of the line departments like HRDD, Health, Labour, SJE&WD and every citizen also plays an important role in ensuring the safety and protection of the children of Sikkim,” said Chairperson, SCPCR, Manita Pradhan, in a consultative programme held at the Gram Vikas Kendra of Chongrang under Yuksam Tashiding Constituency on 21 November, informs a press release.
She highlighted the powers and functions of SCPCR which has got quasi-judicial powers and can issue summons and examine cases of crime against children. The Commission has been set up as per the notification of the Government of Sikkim as a nodal body to monitor RTE upto the elementary level, she informed.
She also highlighted the various schemes initiated by the SDF government to enhance the welfare and well-being of children. She urged all present in the programme to monitor the proper implementation of such welfare schemes at the grass-root level so that the target group gets the benefits.
The programme was also addressed by SDPO-Gyalshing, Sonam Doma Bhutia who highlighted the laws for Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012, [POCSO], Juvenile Justice Act [2000].
Gram Vikas Adhikari Chongrang, Ugel Kishore Pradhan and Member Zilla Panchayat, Chongrang-Gangyap, Nim Lhamu Bhutia, Commission Members Yangchen Ladingpa, Karma Chuki Bhutia and Nim Choki Bhutia also addressed the programme.
Also present were PI Gyalshing Nakul Pradhan, other police personnel, MO Tashiding, Dr. Prabhat Kumar Rai, teachers, ASHA, Aganwadi Workers, Panchayat Members and local people.
The Commission visited Eklavya Model Residential School at Gangyap, Tashiding. Certain problems regarding hostel and infrastructure were reported for which the Commission will take follow-up action with Principal Secretary, SJE&WD, the release mentions.
On 22 November, the Commission also attended a program on social auditing at Gram Prashashan Kendra Chongrang-Arithang where the Chairperson also addressed the gathering. She highlighted the functions of SCPCR and urged the gathering to monitor all the welfare and beneficiary schemes meant for women and children initiated by SDF Government.
The Chairperson also interacted with the Principal, Phurba T Tsechutharpa who urged the Commission to address certain teething problems faced by the school, the release adds.

Triennial Khamsel ceremony concludes at Tholung monastery WANGCHUK BHUTIA

THOLUNG, 24 Nov: The Tholung Monastery in Upper Dzongu hosted the ‘Khamsel’ ceremony from 21 to 24 November during which relics belonging to Lhatsun Chenpo [including his hand-written autobiography] dating back to the 17th Century were put on display for monks and devotees.
This year the Khamsel was held under the aegis of two eminent Rinpoches- Khochen Rinpoche and Dungsey Rinpoche - who offered special prayers before the relics were put on display. A special prayer, ‘Rigzing Sogdup’, was performed by around 50 monks of the monastery led by the Dorjee Lopen and Omje.
On 22 November, ‘Chityer’ Namza and Pechha (holy texts) relics from the 17 treasure boxes were displayed. On 23 November, during the ‘Nangtyer’ other relics like Thankas were displayed. The ‘Chewang’ for devotees was held on the final day i.e 24 November.
The treasure boxes were opened under the supervision of the Department of Ecclesiastical Affairs headed by Joint Director Ketar Sherpa and the Tholung Monastery committee amidst tight security provided by the Sikkim Police. The ceremony was also attended by Power Minister Sonam Gyatso Lepcha, North Zilla Adhakshya Anguli Lepcha, North District officials, panchayat members and devotees.
Monks and devotees from across the country and abroad attended the ceremony.
Among the devotees, 88-year-old Jangbir Singh Chettri from Samdong, East Sikkim and a 90-year-old Amla from Gangtok stood out, having managed to strenuous trek up to Tholung to attend the auspicious ceremony.
“I have come to Tholung after 50 years. I had visited the monastery when I was a Revenue Officer,” shared Mr. Chettri while speaking to NOW! He was accompanied by his grandchildren.
Parman Lepcha (Kongsor Lama) of Tholung Monastery who is one of the oldest monks of the monastery narrated the history of ‘Khamsel Ceremony’. Earlier, the ceremony used to be held among the 12 Mondals of Dzongu and public participation was not so much. However, over the years there has been an increase in public participation with people coming from various places to witness the ceremony, he said.
The ceremony was held at the under-construction Khamsel Lhakang near the monastery. Tholung falls under the Sakyong-Pentong GPU of Upper Dzongu, North Sikkim and there is no human habitation beyond this monastery.
The footpath here was renovated for the devotees and to carry essential commodities. The meals for the devotees were arranged by the committee and first-aid medical team was also provided by Sakyong-Pentong PHSC.
The Tholung Monastery hosts the auspicious ‘Khamsel’ ceremony every three years when the clothes and other belongings of Lhatsun Chenpo are put on display for devotees who come from around the world.
It may be mentioned here that the Tholung monastery which was built in 1789 is one of the most significant monasteries in the state.
According to the history of the monastery, it was founded by Lhatsun Chenpo to safeguard manuscripts and sacred relics from the invading Gorkhas. This monastery holds some rare and valuable scriptures and artifacts. The brass Chorten inside the monastery contains the ashes of Lhatsun Chenpo. The present monastery was reconstructed in 1980, as the earlier monastery was dilapidated, informed a committee member.

Maitreya Heart Shrine Relics open for public darshan

GANGTOK, 24 Nov: Chief Minister Pawan Chamling was at Tsuklakhang here this morning as part of the opening ceremony of the exposition and darshan of the sacred relics of Sakyamuni Buddha, Bodhisattvas and other enlightened masters. The occasion coincided with Lhabab Duechen.
The Chief Minister, after lighting ceremonial butter lamps, took part in a ceremony led by the monks of Tsuklakhang after which members of the organizing committee and the Maitreya Heart Shrine Relic Tour team addressed the gathering.
The exposition and darshan was opened for public after the opening programme which was also attended by Speaker KT Gyaltsen, senior Cabinet members, senior government officials including Chief Secretary R Ongmu.
The relics have been collected over many years by Lama Zopa Rinpoche, the spiritual founder of the relic tour.
It may also be informed that donations collected from the tour will be used for the construction of a 150-ft tall bronze statue of Maitreya Buddha in Bodhgaya in which the relics will be eventually enshrined at the end of the world tour.
It may be informed that the Maitreya Buddha Relics Tour arrived in Sikkim on 19 November through Rangpo check-post where monks from Phodong Monastery offered a traditional welcome in the presence of senior state government representatives, members of the exposition committee and devotees from all over the state.
The relics have arrived in Sikkim after touring 66 countries, making their last halt in Bhutan where they were kept on display for the past one week.
The CM while extending warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Sikkim on the occasion of Lhabab Duechen appealed to the people of Sikkim to follow the teachings of Lord Buddha for the well being of all sentient beings.
While speaking on the need for people to be close to spirituality and understand the basic principles of religion and dharma, he added that the government of Sikkim had left no stone unturned to propagate these principles amongst the peace loving and religious people of the state.
He went on to speak about the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit being developed in the state to further promote the ideologies of Buddhism in the world.
He also congratulated Sonam Ongmu Denzongpa from “Karmapa Australia”, who is also the coordinator of the relics exposition committee and one of the main persons behind bringing the relics to the people of Sikkim.
The relics will be open for public darshan at Tsuklakhang from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. everyday till 01 December.

ALL INDIA CHIEF MINISTER’S GOLD CUP UPDATE MMC-Nepal goes down 2-0 to Air India

JORETHANG, 24 Nov: Air India and ONGC Mumbai will now battle for the title of All India Chief Minister’s Gold Cup Football Tournament 2013 on Monday here at Jorethang, South Sikkim.
Air India outplayed Manang Marshyangdi Nepal 2-0 today in the second semi-final match of the tourney making its way into the finals.
The first half of the match ended goalless while during the second half Omkar Singh (07) of Air India netted a beautiful goal in the 65th minute giving his team a lead of 1-0. Another goal by LN Das (24) gave the winning lead of 2-0 to Air India.
Today's match was attended by Chief Whip Ugen Gyatso Bhutia as the chief guest.
The final match of the tournament, organized by South District Football Association, will be played between ONGC Mumbai and Air India on Monday. Chief Minister Pawan Chamling is expected to attend the final as the chief guest.

SSLSA organises National Lok Adalat in Sikkim

GANGTOK, 24 Nov: As directed by Executive Chairman, National Legal Services Authority, a National Lok Adalat was held on 23 November, 2013 in Sikkim as well as throughout the country.
A press release from Sikkim State Legal Services Authority [SSLSA] informs that a meeting chaired by  Executive Chairman, Sikkim, SLSA with the Head of Departments, Government of Sikkim, Judicial Officers and other District Administrations was held for the purpose of identifying disputes which were not only pending with the Courts but also unseen by the administration and judiciary pertaining to boundary/ Land Acquisition, Family Disputes etc. that could be brought before such Lok Adalats for amicable settlement.
Pre-sittings with the parties by the Lok Adalat Judges along with Other Persons were also held periodically to enable the departments and parties to facilitate amicable settlement.
Lok Adalats at the High Court level presided by Executive Chairman, Sikkim, SLSA and Chairman, High Court Legal Services Committee with Other Person was held in the office of the Sikkim SLSA.
Similar Lok Adalat Benches at the District Level were being held in the respective District Court premises.
A total of 668 cases at the pre-litigative and post-litigative stages have been filed in various courts like land Acquisition, Property Disputes, Eviction Suit, Criminal Compoundable Cases, MACT, Private Complaints, Traffic Cases, Cases under the Negotiable Instrument Act and Family matters.
The inaugural programme of the National Lok Adalat organized by National Legal Services Authority was web-telecast at the High Court and web-cast linked to the District Courts. The inaugural function was chaired by Justice P. Sathasivam, Justice G.S Singhvi, Judge Supreme Court of India and Executive Chairman NALSA and Justice A.K Patnaik, Chairman, Supreme Court Legal Services Committee in the Judges lounge, Supreme Court of India between 9 am to 10 15 am.
Judge, High Court of Sikkim and Executive Chairman, Sikkim SLSA, Justice SP Wangdi with the Registrar General, Registrar, High Court of Sikkim, Member Secretary, Sikkim SLSA, Principal District Judge East, Judicial Officers of the East District and Other Persons of the High Court Lok Adalat witnessed the live web-telecast of the inaugural function at the High Court of Sikkim.
The Lok Adalat were organized right from the Supreme Court to the Taluka Courts level and conducted throughout the nation. The purpose of the National Lok Adalat is to reduce the pendency of cases in the courts. Due to fresh and urgent matters requiring immediate attention, these cases remain unattended to. Hence, it was the vision of Judge, Supreme Court of India and Executive Chairman, NALSA, Justice G.S Singhvi to dispose of a large number of cases on 23 November which would have a positive impact in society about the judiciary, as also about the existence of the alternative method of dispute resolution, which can be availed of by the public, the release mentions.
Simultaneously, the system would also get unclogged stimulating the speed of disposal of cases in the Courts by reducing the pendency in Courts and promoting easy access to justice through the Alternate Resolution where Lok Adalat is one of the forums.
For ensuring “Access to Justice” and to resolve disputes amicably, under the direction of the Executive Chairman, Sikkim SLSA, Lok Adalat Benches was constituted in all the Courts in the Districts with Ld. Judicial Officers as Lok Adalat Judges and Other Persons by the State Authority.

SPCC to get Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje to Sikkim

GANGTOK, 24 Nov: The Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee [SPCC] has announced that Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje will be visiting Sikkim in January next year and has claimed credit for having made this visit possible.
In a press release, SPCC president, Kunga Nima Lepcha, states that the Karmapa will be visiting Phodong Monastery in North Sikkim in January 2014 and that the visit is the result of “a decision taken in the review meeting of the SPCC called by All India Congress Committee, vice president, Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on 05 November”.
He adds that the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Pawan Chamling “has totally failed in its efforts to bring the Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje to Sikkim and this casts doubt over the state government’s concern regarding the matter”.
“The people of Sikkim should be extremely grateful to AICC president, Sonia Gandhi, Political Secretary to Sonia Gandhi, AICC general secretary, Ahmed Patel, Sikkim In-charge, Luizinho Faleiro, AICC senior leaders and Government of India for considering the long cherished dream,” Mr Lepcha has stated.
He has further urged the state’s public to have full faith in SPCC to bring the Karmapa to Sikkim.

Golay promises national OBC status for left out communities

GANGTOK, 24 Nov: Sikkim Krantikari Morcha [SKM] held its second largest meeting at Mangalbaria bazaar under Soreng-Chakung constituency where its leader PS Tamang [Golay] urged party workers to shoulder their responsibilities in the upcoming assembly elections next year.
As per an SKM release, while addressing the party workers, Mr. Tamang reiterated that he has joined SKM to “transform and protect” Sikkim from what he sees as the misrule of the Chamling government.
Mr. Tamang thanked the people from Chakung-Soreng constituency for consistently supporting him for the last 20 years and also expressed hope that their support would continue in the days to come.
He also assured the people of Chakung-Soreng of more development if voted to power in the next assembly election. Mr. Tamang further stated that SKM will ensure the inclusion of Newar, Chettri and Bahun in the OBC category at the national level as against the hollow assurances of the Chamling government.
Mr. Tamang also inaugurated the zonal party office at Mangalbaria. The meeting also passed four resolutions; Limboo-Tamang seat reservation in Sikkim Legislative Assembly; special northeast allowances to government employees for which the state employees are debarred even after the 5th State Pay Commission’s recommendation; inclusion of left out communities in OBC category and inclusion of all the Sikkimese communities in the Scheduled Tribe category.
During the meeting, former SDF publicity secretary Prem Karki, Hamro Prajshakti’s Pabitra Bhandari, former Minister Taraman Rai along with 737 people joined SKM, the release claims. These leaders also addressed the meeting today.

Curd Making Unit inaugurated at Jorethang Dairy Plant

GANGTOK, 24 Nov: Animal Husbandry Minister, Dawcho Lepcha, inaugurated a Curd Making Unit at Jorethang Dairy Plant of the Sikkim Milk Union today. The programme was attended by the Chairman and Managing Director of Sikkim Milk Union, Secretary, Animal Husbandry, Addl. Directors of AH Department, officials and employees of various Government Departments and Sikkim Milk Union.
The Minister also inaugurated two newly installed 5 KLPH Pasteurizers, Quality Control Laboratory, automatic Crate Washer, Automatic Can Washer, Pouch Filling Machines at the Dairy Plant, Jorethang. During the programme, the Minister also distributed Chest Cooler Facility to the Village Milk Cooperative Societies to safeguard the quality of the milk at the village-level and Automatic Milk testing machines with collection facility in order to ensure effective and transparent in milk testing under IDDP project. Village Milk Cooperative Societies of Siktam, Khoutay received the same in the program.
Dairy cow induction financial assistance was also handed over to three village milk cooperative societies viz., Thingling, Central Payong and Begini for induction of 14 dairy cows. The Minister also flagged off a Marketing Truck to meet the enhancing market demand of the Sikkim Milk Union to cover South and West Sikkim.
In the programme, Managing Director informed that with this addition of machineries, the Jorethang Dairy Plant can now handle more than 15 KLPD capacity and the consumers in South and West Sikkim will now be able to get the Sikkimilk Curd without any interruption as there is curd unit at Jorethang Plant itself in addition to other products of Sikkim Milk Union such as pouched milk, paneer, butter, Chrupi., etc.,
He further informed that all the village milk cooperative societies are being provided with automatic electronic milk testing machines and cooling facility to enhance the quality of milk produced in the state. He also stated that the Sikkim Milk Union has all the necessary infrastructure to support milk production in the state and thus urged the farmers to enhance their milk production as the situation is favorable for the dairy farmers in the state. The Minister appreciated the progress made by Sikkim Milk Union and expressed satisfaction over its functioning and assured all support to the Union.

SFA mourns Karma Gyaltsen’s passing away

GANGTOK, 24 Nov: Sikkim Football Association (SFA) held a condolence meeting at Football House, Gangtok, today to mourn the passing away of its joint secretary, Karma Gyaltsen. The late Mr. Gyaltsen was working with the Tourism Department in the capacity of Officer on Special Duty.
An SFA release mentions that the late Mr. Gyaltsen passed away at 3 a.m. on 23 November at a Nursing Home in Siliguri after a brief illness. His body was brought to Gangtok the same day.
He was an ardent football fan and used to take keen interest in the activities of the association. He was a person with full of ideas and always used to offer innovative ideas, the association states.
The release informs that the meeting chaired by SFA general secretary, Menla Ethenpa observed a two-minute silence as a mark of respect for the departed soul. He was 57 years old and leaves behind his wife and a daughter. His funeral is scheduled for Monday, 25 November.

Training held for Paryavaran Mitra teachers

GANGTOK, 24 Nov [IPR]: The ENVIS Centre-Sikkim of the Forest Department organized a one-day Paryavaran Mitra Teacher’s training programme at its conference hall here in Deorali on Saturday.
The training was held to provide basic guidelines in promoting handprint actions i.e. action towards environmental sustainability at school level based on the Paryavaran Mitra teacher’s Handbook prepared by National Council of Education Research (NCERT) which is also linked to the NCF 2005 syllabus for the elementary level.
About 80 teachers of Junior High Schools, Secondary and Senior Secondary schools participated in this training programme. Paryavaran Mitra is a nationwide initiative to create a network of two crore young Indians from schools across the country who have the awareness, knowledge, commitment and potential to meet the challenges of environmental sustainability in their own spheres of influence.
The vision of the programme is to make the school, class room, home and the community as places where the students can be engaged in exploring, discovering, thinking, sharing and also in understanding positive action for environmental sustainability. The teacher training is essential to update the skills regarding environment sustainability.
The PCCF cum Secretary Forest, Arvind Kumar in his address said that the students are the prime focus of this programme as their commitment to make a difference will reflect in practices at schools, home or in the community.
“Therefore, the success of the programme rests upon the support and guidance of the teachers. Their commitment in taking up this programme activity in the class will encourage active participation of all the students”, he added. He also enlightened on the prevalence of peace and tranquility in the state and the people’s eco-friendly and instinctive love for nature. He added that the training will facilitate the teachers about ideas and methods for carrying out projects as well as suggestions for involving the whole schools towards becoming a Paryavaran Mitra School.
PCCF, Environment, Dr Anil Mainra also mentioned about the role of a teacher as the key facilitator and motivator of the programme who also supports and guides the students in developing the environment awareness qualities.  
CCF Environment, BK Tiwari presented the welcome address.
Later, the resource persons from Centre for Environment Education (CEE), Guwahati imparted the training on Paryavaran Mitra Teacher’s Handbook.

National Lok Adalat at Namchi and Mangan

GANGTOK, 24 Nov: Lok Adalat (District Legal Services Authority), South Sikkim, at Namchi settled 104 cases after taking up 244 cases on a single day i.e. on 23 November as part of the National Lok Adalat.
A press release informs that the National Lok Adalat is being held throughout the country on the direction of the National Legal Services Authority, New Delhi.
The bench was headed by Judge, Prajwal Khatiwada with Lakpa Tamang (Ecclesiastical Affairs Department) as the other Member, the release adds.
A Lok Adalat was also held at ADR Centre Taluk, Mangan by Sikkim State Legal Services Authority in the presence of Judicial Magistrate, District Court, Mangan, Binay Sharma and member, Pemzang Tenzing along with other staff of the centre. The Lok Adalat took up a total of 9 cases out of which 3 criminal cases, 1 pre-litigations title civil cases were settled.

Gyaltsab Rinpoche inaugurates Martam Retreat Centre REBYNA RANA

GANGTOK, 24 Nov: Goshir Gyaltsab Rinpoche, accompanied by Justice, High Court of Sikkim, SP Wangdi, inaugurated the Martam Retreat Center of the Rumtek Dharma Chakra Center established under the spiritual direction of the 17th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje here at the Drub-De Yid Wong Sam Ten Ling Center, Martam today.
The Rinpoche consecrated the Retreat Center and led the prayers and rituals.
The Tsurphu Monastery in Tibet, the seat of the Karmapa, is also named Drub-De Yid Wong Sam Ten Ling [Center] and the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, gave the same name to the old retreat center at Rumtek Monastery, it is informed.
The 17th Karmapa had desired that the same name be used for the new Retreat Center in Martam.
It was informed that this is the first project of the 17th Karmapa since he took refuge in India. The reason he chose Sikkim was mainly on account of the fact that the Karmapa’s principal seat outside of Tibet is the Rumtek Monastery here, it was explained.
The construction has maintained the traditional concept of a Mandala with a Main Shrine for common congregation and prayers and surrounded by individual rooms and a central courtyard in the middle. There are provisions for those who want to undertake short spells of meditation/retreat on the lower ground floor with independent access so as not to disturb the main center.
The retreat center can house 22 persons with rooms for the permanent retreat master and visiting Rinpoches, a main shrine hall for prayers, teaching hall and meditation practice room as well.
The construction began sometime in 2006 and was completed by 2010. The finishing touches were given recently after the decision was made to begin the retreat center from this year onwards on the auspicious occasion of Lhabab Duechen.
A total of 13 monks will be entering retreat from 26 November which will go on for three years, three months, and three days. The retreat will be under the spiritual guidance of Goshir Gyaltsab Rinpoche and senior Buddhist priests namely Khenpo Lodro Dheyue of Bokar Monastery in Mirik, West Bengal and Lama Tenzing Gyurmey of Palchen Choling Monastery, Ralong, West Sikkim will guide the retreat.

Lachen-Mangan MLA interacts with public

MANGAN, 24 Nov: MLA, Lachen-Mangan constituency, Tshering Wangdi Lepcha, convened a meeting with people from five wards of the Mangan Nagar Panchayat on 22 November, last Friday.
The programme was also attended by MNP councilors Karma Jigdal Bhutia, PK Malu, Zangmoo Bhutia and others along with senior citizens, business community representatives, youth and members of the SDF party’s cheli morcha.
The programme started with welcome address by MNP President KJ Bhutia.
During the open discussion, the people pointed out that the water tank above Mangan Post Office which was constructed a year back to supply water to Mangan bazaar was not functioning. They demanded that water supply be started at the earliest. Other demands included maintenance of road link towards lower Mangan bazaar, construction of a Durga Mandir near the new taxi stand and approval of a suitable site for a graveyard for the Muslims of Mangan.
The upper Mangan bazaar, Pentok ward residents demanded a Police booth at Pentok for proper patrolling in the area while upper bazaar cheli morcha sought an exposure tour to Kolkata.  
The area MLA in his address, assured that the maintenance works and water supply problems will be solved at the earliest. He said that the Durga Mandir and site for graveyard will be discussed with the government and department officials as soon as possible. He also informed that, the government is trying its best to develop Mangan bazaar and provide necessary facilities in a phase wise manner. He also, informed that the names of those who hold voter ID cards should be shortlisted by councilors for provision of free schemes and grants in the upcoming Janata Mela 2013.
He also asked the public to share their problems directly with him so that the matter can be taken up for consideration as soon as possible.

Special Handloom Expo gets underway at Kanchanjunga Shopping Complex

GANGTOK, 24 Nov [IPR]: The National Level Special Handloom Expo’ 2013 was inaugurated today by the area MLA, Dorjee Namgyal Bhutia, at the roof top of Kanchanjunga Shopping Plaza for the period of twenty days. He was accompanied by the Secretary Commerce and Industries, PT Euthenpa, Director, Directorate of Handicraft and Handloom, Ganga D. Pradhan and other officers and staff of the Directorate.
The Expo has been organized by Sikkim Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd and sponsored by Office of the Development Commissioner (Handloom), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
During the function the chief guest, Mr. Dorjee visited all the displayed stalls from all around the country. A large contingent of weavers, self help groups and cooperative societies from Manipur, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Sikkim are participating in the expo.
The objective of the expo is to provide a marketing platform and is expected to generate awareness and also to create employment opportunities in the handloom weaving sector. The live demonstration and theme pavilion highlighting the exquisite handloom products from all over the country are highlights of the event. The expo will continue till 10 December 2013.

Garbage van presented to service Rhenock and Rongli

GANGTOK, 24 Nov: East District Zilla Panchayat sponsored a garbage management van from the prize money received as part of the Nirmal Rajya 2013 title. East Zilla Adhakshya, Bimal Dawari, presented the keys of the van to Rongli SDM, Normit Lepcha. District Planning Officer of the EDZP Phuchung Bhutia informed that the van, which cost Rs. 8 lakh, has been presented to the Rongli Bazar Development Committee and Rhenock Bazaar Saaf-Safai Abhiyan committee. [from BHANURAJ THAPA]

From Representative to Participatory

Editorial:-
Sikkim has been enjoying representative democracy for close to four decades now and it is time that this structure was reinforced further with participatory democracy. It is time not only because democracy has matured in the seven Assembly elections the people have participated in as a democracy, but also because there are too many conflicting ideas being thrown up which can be addressed only if the people invest involvement in democracy beyond the [admittedly healthy] casting of votes.
But what is participatory democracy all about? Essentially, it involves informing, discussing and listening. These are actually prerequisites of a democracy, but the people tend to end their participation with the ballot. While elected leaders are fine for governance, when tricky issues need to be resolved, the people have to increase their involvement. It is however not easy for the people to set up such engagements on their own. And this is where the role of the elected representatives becomes more important - they have to initiate the process of participatory democracy. It serves their purpose also because then they can truly understand the aspirations of the people and act accordingly. By doing so, they not only serve the people better but also secure their own political futures. The task is not easy though; the public does not and will not speak in one voice, but with many voices, raising different demands. And while a multitude of demands is not a problem, conflicting demands and conflicting interests pose a problem. Within any area there are many communities and with every issue, there are many lines of conflict. What the mediator has to look for is the other common factor – the lines of cooperation and begin the process from there. The development of participatory democracy, if successful, would extend the range of voices beyond those normally heard.
The importance of discussion in participatory democracy is to establish awareness about different positions, to test them against other and wider concerns and to see whether, through discussion, new positions can be reached which, even if they cannot reconcile differences, at least explore how far they can be reconciled. It is the roles of elected representatives to aid that process and in the end, if required, balance mediate and judge the differing views. The process, however, has to be quick because no matter how pressing the issue, the people cannot be expected to sustain a continuing involvement for too long; they have too many other issues demanding their attention. They should be called in for a short period for a particular commitment and made to hear the issues in depth, given an opportunity to question and challenge and then asked to give their views. Ideally, this process is safest in the hands of a civil society, but Sikkim does not have one yet. The process of mediation and initiation will have to be started by the elected representatives at their respective levels. And this will be a healthy engagement for them and a welcome change from their usual responses which is to please and placate the people.

Jitendra Singh Raje is new DC East

GANGTOK, 24 Nov: Jitendra Singh Raje has been posted as the new District Collector East on deputation. Mr. Raje was earlier posted as the Managing Director, State Bank of Sikkim. The incumbent at the DC office, AK Singh has been posted as Joint Secretary, DPER&NECA.
Meanwhile, Managing Director, SIMFED, Brijendra Swaroop, who had been repatriated to Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management department is now transferred and posted as Director, Commerce and Industries Department, on deputation.
Similarly Special Secretary, Energy & Power Department, PW Rinzing, has also been transferred to Labour Department and Additional Secretary, Home department, Hem Kumar Chettri has been posted as Managing Director, State Bank of Sikkim, on deputation.
Joint Secretary, Energy &Power Department, Norgay Dawa Bhutia has been transferred and posted as Joint Secretary, Directorate of Lotteries under Finance, Revenue and Expenditure Department.
Deputy Secretary, Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, Parina Gurung, has transferred to Home Department [Protocol] while Joint Controller (Exam), SPSC,TB Chettri, has repatriated and posted as Joint Secretary, Sikkim Commission for Backward Classes, on deputation vice Bina Kanti Pradhan, who is now retired.
Joint Director, HRDD, OP Sapkota, has been posted as Joint Controller (Exam), SPSC, on deputation in place of TB Chettri.