Lama Ugyen Tenzing Rinpoche enthroned in Bodh Gaya

GANGTOK, 17 Dec: Tulku Karma Tsultrim Tenzin Thinley Jangpo, recognized as the third incarnation of Lama Ugyen Tenzing Rinpoche of Rumtek who lived in the early half of the last century, was enthroned as per Karma Kagyu traditions at the Karmapa Monastery in Bodh Gaya where Kagyu Monlam Chenmo is currently underway. Tulku Jangpo was earlier recognised by Kyabje Shamarpa Rinpoche.
A press release informs that the enthronement ceremony was presided over by the 17th Karmapa Trinley Thaye Dorje, amid hundreds of monks and lay devotees from Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal, etc.
Born to Dawa Lepcha and Pemden Lepcha of Rey Mindu here in East Sikkim, Tulku Karma Tsultrim Tenzin Thinley “possesses inherent and intrinsic intelligence with spontaneous inclination towards Buddha dharma, the young reincarnate is being groomed most sensitively here at the local Rey Mindu Monastery in East Sikkim”, an official communiqué details.
The release goes on to inform that Ugyen Tenzing Rinpoche, who also happened to be the uncle of the late LD Kazi, accomplished himself in the teachings and transmission of both the Kagyu and Nyingma traditions and was held in very high esteem by the then Buddhist masters of both the lineages. He was a contemporary of Chogyal Sidkeong Tulku and Alexander David Neel. The legendary Ajho Labrang Gomchen of Sikkim has been one of his greatest disciples, the release mentions.

SNT Drivers’ and Conductors’ Assoc felicitates members

GANGTOK, 17 Dec: Sikkim Nationalised Transport Drivers’ and Conductors’ Association organized a picnic at Water Garden on 14 December.
A press release from the association’s advisor, Dewen Rai informs that on the occasion the association felicitated its former president, Lawang Norbu Tamang for his contribution towards the association. The association also felicitated and bade farewell to four retired members Norbu Tshering Bhutia, Phuchung Bhutia, Khiluk Bhutia and Pema Namgyal Tamang. They were felicitated by SNT Chief Engineer, GT Lachungpa, it is informed.
In his address, the CE urged the members of the association to work with dedication and sincerity. The association’s president, CB Chettri also urged the members to serve the department sincerely.
The programme was also addressed by other senior members of the association.

SKM to celebrate Rolu Picnic anniv

GANGTOK, 17 Dec: Sikkim Krantikari Morcha has invited all Sikkimese to attend the Rolu Picnic’s fourth anniversary on 21 December at Rolu in South Sikkim.
An SKM release informs that PS Tamang’s [Golay] “fight for change” had started on 21 December in 2009 at Rolu in South Sikkim and this year, the party will mark the anniversary with a function at the same venue starting with a puja followed by an address by Mr. Tamang and the party’s working president, Bharati Sharma.
The party also has another reason to celebrate after the Election Commission of India registered Sikkim Krantikari Morcha as a regional political party on 16 December.
“Despite SDF’s attempts to create hurdles in the registration process, the party is elated at getting official registration,” the SKM release contends.

SDF appoints sub-division level office bearers in South

GANGTOK, 17 Dec: Sikkim Democratic Front [SDF] party has appointed four persons in the capacity of party sub-division level convenors for Ravangla and Namchi. An SDF press release informs that the party president has appointed four persons under section 26, sub-section 4 of the party constitution and has appointed CL Gurung as youth convenor of Rabong Sub-division and Tshering Doma Bhutia as Cheli Morcha convenor. Similarly, B S Tamang has been appointed as youth convenor of Namchi Sub-division and Dikila Bhutia as convenor Cheli Morcha, the release informs.

Sakela celebrated in Gangtok

Gangtok, 17 Dec: Sakela festival of the Rai community was celebrated in grand manner here in the capital today. The celebration was organised by the Akhil Kirat Rai Sangh Sikkim’s East District committee at Bulbulay with PHE Department advisor KB Chamling as chief guest accompanied by Kiran Rai as guest of honour.
The celebration started with rituals by the Mangpa, accompanied by all the members of the association praying for a good harvest.
The AKRS East District general secretary, DK Rai, gave a brief report on Sakela and its significance, explaining, “According to the Kirat holy book, Mundhum, a year is divided into two phases: Ubhauli (Going up) and Udhauli (Going down). It is generally accepted that the nomenclature of the words come from the migration pattern of birds. During the onset of the winter season in Mangsir, the birds migrate down to the warmer terai belt, and thus this phase of the year is known as Udhauli, meaning downward. Likewise, during the rise of the summer season, the birds migrate upward to the cooler hill regions, and therefore this latter phase is known as Ubhauli.
“Kirats believe in Shamanism and are worshipers of Mother Nature. The Sakela celebration is a prayer to Mother Nature for healthy crops and protection from natural calamities. Therefore the festival is also known as Bhumi Puja. Starting on Baisakh Purnima, Sakela Ubhauli is celebrated for 15 days in Baisakh (April/ May), which marks the beginning of the farming year.
Similarly, the celebration of Sakela Udhauli during Mangsir (November/December) is their way of thanking nature for providing them with a good harvest.”
The chief guest, in his address, appreciated the program organised by the committee. He added, “Every community should preserve their culture and tradition which has to be passed on to the next generation”.
The Rai calendar of 2014, published by AKRS Sikkim East District Committee was also released by the chief guest during the program.
The program also saw different types of Sili being performed by the youth and members of the association.

600 senior citizens from Yangang-Rangang taken on pilgrimage tour of South Sikkim

NAMCHI, 17 Dec: Total 600 senior citizens of Yangyang-Rangang constituency were taken for a day-long pilgrimage tour to four major religious pilgrimage centres of South Sikkim. Senior citizens of 60 years and above of the constituency were taken on this free tour which was organized by the panchayats and SDF party youth leaders of the constituency under the leadership of Zilla Adhakshya, South, CL Gurung with support of area MLA, CB Karki.
The pilgrimage tour was flagged off by the Zilla Adhakshya from Yangyang.
The group started with the Buddha Park at Rabongla.  They were then taken to Samdruptse where they offered prayers to Guru Padmasambhava. The third pilgrimage centre was Chardham at Solophok. Here the devotees offered prayers to Lord Shiva and twelve Jyotirlingas. The final pilgrimage centre of the day was the Shirdi Sai Mandir at Assangthang.
More than 70 vehicles were deployed to ferry the senior citizens to the pilgrimage centres and back to their respective places.
Later, a formal programme was also organized at Namchi Community Hall with Chairman Tea Board, Gagan Rai was the chief guest.
Zilla Adhakshya South, CL Gurung while addressing the senior citizens informed that this tour was organized by the SDF party leaders, Panchayats and the party youth on their own expense for the senior citizens. He said that it is due to the far sighted vision of Chief Minister Pawan Chamling that the senior citizens of the state now have this opportunity to visit Chaardham in the state itself.
The chief guest, in turn congratulated the organizers for their initiative. He also spoke about the various developments brought about by the SDF government.

State cultural troupe calls on Governor at home in Karad

GANGTOK, 17 Dec: The 34-member troupe from Sikkim, led by LN Sharma, called on Governor Shriniwas Patil at his residence in Karad, Maharastra, today.
A press release informs that the troupe was accorded a traditional and warm welcome by the Governor and the First Lady, Rajanidevi Patil.
The Governor and the first lady also felicitated the group and lauded their “great performance” at the ongoing cultural tour of Maharastra. They further wished them all the success in their forthcoming endeavours, the release adds.

Training for REDRH masons at Sumbuk

GANGTOK, 17 Dec: A one-day training and orientation programme for REDRH masons and beneficiaries was held at Sumbuk GVK, South Sikkim today. GVA Sumbuk, Dinesh Pradhan highlighted that being a time bound project, REDRH houses must be completed by March 2014 and urged beneficiaries to ensure quality work as well.
The training was conducted by AE GVK Sumbuk, Sandeep Khatiwara who explained various technical aspects of REDRH construction like quality testing of the materials, curing of bricks and mortar mixing.
Similar training for masons was organized by Kabi Tingda GVK, North Sikkim on 13 December. The training had participants from 6 GPUs of the constituency and was attended by DE, Zilla panchayat North, GVA, AE and JEs from engineering cell.

Free coaching classes at Adampool for JNV entrance exam

GANGTOK, 17 Dec: Two-month free coaching classes for students appearing for JNV entrance exam session 2014 was inaugurated at Adampool Junior High School on 16 December.
A press release informs that more than 30 students are attending the classes which began today and will go on till 17 February 2014. The classes are being sponsored by the public of Rawtey-Rumtek and rooms for conducting the classes are being provided by Adampool JHS. The organizing committee has expressed gratitude to other surrounding schools for their cooperation.
The coaching classes are being conducted by the youth of Rawtey Neopaney ward and the two teachers, Pooja Dhamala [MA] and Nanda Chettri [BSc], both from Adampool.

A Year On…

Editorial:-
The Delhi gang-rape of ‘Nirbhaya’ around this time last year had left the entire nation shocked and disturbed. The incident had triggered a spontaneous protest on the streets of Delhi and expressions of support from across the country as the repressed anger of a large section of the nation’s population spilled over and expressed itself with staggering forthrightness. The anger among the protestors was genuine and the establishment’s response to the situation, both the rape and the protests, was typically nonchalant and ignorant initially. The gang-rape, disturbing and heinous as it was, provided the trigger to unleash pent-up frustrations of the people. The insecurity that Delhi as a society leaves women living there with and the disinterest with which those responsible to keep citizens safe deliver on their responsibilities, manifested in the near anarchic string of protests there this time last year. One will recall that the protests continued even after all the accused were behind bars and the victim [who unfortunately passed away later], was receiving the best medical attention possible. That was clearly because as much as the protest was about that one incident of a brutal gangrape, it was also against the society’s general ambivalence when it comes to violence against women – physical, mental and through denial of opportunities – which allows such perversions as the Delhi Shame which has the entire nation in a roil. What the thousands who stared down water cannons on the streets of Delhi wanted was not just justice for ‘Nirbhaya’, but an assurance that public spaces will be made safer for women and the law & order personnel and infrastructure so sensitized that they not only bring perpetrators of violence against women to book, but also, through quicker response and better policing, prevent such crimes from transpiring. Effective punishment for violence against women should already have been in place and by now, the State machinery should have earned the trust of the people when it comes to ensuring justice for victims. Because the State has failed on both counts, the people are left with no recourse but to take to the streets so often.
The establishment lumbers towards reforms and will hopefully come up eventually with a plan which will not only reduce the number of rapes in the country [25,000 reported to the police in 2011], but also improve the conviction rate beyond the present dismal statistic of 24%. But even as the administration and the policy makers begin prioritizing women’s issues, the women found new resolve in the wake of the Nirbhaya shocker. It goes without saying that they are now expressing their protests and disdains with more determination and less unencumbered by the inhibitions which held many of them back. Rape incidents used to occasionally bring women to the streets in solidarity earlier, but over the past year, one has noticed many more expressions of individual and organizational protests. Women in India no longer appear inclined to ignore what would have earlier been considered ‘minor’ transgressions. And when it comes to more serious offences, the clamour is even louder. And that has been one of the positive course corrections that the Nirbhaya incident triggered in the country.

SBTSO forms Tadong Branch

GANGTOK, 17 Dec: Sikkim Bihari Trade and Social Organisation [SBTSO] formed its Tadong Branch committee today.
A press release informs that the committee has Chandan Prasad as president, Brij Kishore Prasad as working president, Amirul Ansari as vice president, Satrughan Prasad as general secretary, Bijay Prasad as joint secretary, Jaideep Gupta as publicity secretary, Ashok Kr Rai as treasurer and Subrath Gupta as assistant treasurer.
Paras Nath Prasad, Satnarayan Prasad, Sultan Ansari, Dilip Chaudhary, KK Jha,  Satendra Prasad, Sunil Kalwar, Tribhuwan Prasad, Oshihar Bhatia, Mathura Prasad and Birendra Singh were appointed as advisors.

Kabi archers outhoot Bayul Demazong

GANGTOK, 17 Dec: Kabi has defeated Bayul Demazong in the second match of the ongoing Silver Jubilee Losoong Archery Tournament 2013-14 here at Archery Range, Tathangchen. In the match, Kabi scored 52 points while Bayul Demazong scored just 17 points.
In today’s match, Sonam Topgay of Kabi scored the highest 16 Karii [target] for his team.
In the next match on 22 December, Penlong will take on Matrix.  The tournament is being organized by Yargay Association of Tathangchen to mark the Losoong festival.

Teyongsi Sirijunga Sawan Tongnam celebration at Aho

GANGTOK, 17 Dec: The 139th Teyongsi Sirijunga Sawan Tongnam was celebrated in a grand manner at Yuma Mang-Him Aho Basti in East Sikkim today. The celebration, which was organized by Yuma Mang-Him Committee, Aho-Yangtam, mainly focused on encouraging people to preserve and promote their culture, traditions and language.
The celebration had area MLA, BB Rai as the chief guest who was accompanied by Horticulture Board Chairman, DN Sapkota as the guest of honour.
On the occasion, the committee also accorded posthumous felicitations on Late Aita Singh Limboo, Late Sath Kumar Limboo and Late Bhawani Prasad Limboo for their contributions in building the Mang-Him in the area. The felicitations were received by their respective family members.
The celebration started with the offering of prayers by the chief guest and other guests and the people of the area at the Yuma Mang-Him. The celebration also had Dhan Naach and Chabrung performances by youth of the area.
In his address, the area MLA congratulated the committee for initiating various activities for the preservation and promotion of traditions, culture, language and religion. He stressed that religious institutions do not belong to a single community but are meant for all communities and added that everyone should work for its preservation.
Mr Rai mentioned that under the SDF government there is peace in the state and people can practice and follow their religion, culture and tradition without any restriction. Sikkim is the perfect example of a peaceful secular state in the country, he stated.
Speaking on opposition parties, he alleged that an opposition party without any programme or vision has been trying to mislead the youth with false promises. On the same, he urged the youth to understand the situation and not to believe in such false promises.
Mr Sapkota mentioned that the SDF government has been working for the protection of every religion and community in the state. He added that people should take part in the process of developing tourism in places of religious importance.
While placing demands to the area MLA, a Panchayat member, Dagey Bhutia urged the government to promote Aho-Yangtam as a pilgrimage tourism destination since there are many religious sites in the area. He also requested for the carpeting of the PWD Road in the area and further urged people to attend the Gumpa Mela at Changey in East Sikkim on 20 and 21 December.
Sikkim Limboo Literary Association president, SP Limboo spoke on Teyongsi Sirijunga and the importance of Mang-Him in Limboo culture and society, while a senior advisor of the committee, PK Maden spoke on the importance and role of Yeba-Fedangmas in Limboo culture.
The celebration started with the welcome address by president, SB Subba and concluded with the vote of thanks by general secretary, Narman Subba of Mang-Him Committee.

17 families identified as airport project-affected, five evacuated to safer locations

GANGTOK, 16 Dec: As of now a total of 17 families have been identified as project affected and in danger, living in close proximity to the Pakyong Airport.  Five of these families have also been evacuated to safer locations.
The DC East, Jitendra Singh Raje informs that while there could be an increase in the number of houses susceptible to damage in the vicinity of the airport, the number, as of now, is at 17 as assessed by the SDM Pakyong along with other government agencies.
The assessment of damage compensation is underway and is being undertaken by the Building and Housings Department. However, and as informed by the DC, assessment of damage compensation has been completed for the 5 evacuated families. The total compensation amount to be paid to them for house and property has been assessed at Rs. 3.29 crore. This amount will be handed to them once approved by the government.
It needs to be mentioned that the decision to identify and relocate houses and families which were assessed to be in danger due to their close proximity to the airport project was taken by the government and it had already been agreed upon to compensate them adequately.
It is also stated by the DC East that damage compensation to families living in the houses above the road to the airport has already been disbursed. The latest round of assessing damages and identifying of houses which were in high risk of sustaining damages was taken up recently.
Just a few days ago the Relief Commissioner along with Tourism Secretary and the District Collector had visited the site to take stock of progress and to assess the damage to land and buildings around the project site. It was then directed to the SDM, Pakyong, to prepare a consolidated proposal on compensation and other damages.
The above mentioned identification of 17 families, as of now, including the evacuation of 5 of the families is subsequent to this directive. The damage assessment of Rs.3.29 crore is for house and associated property of the 5 evacuated families and it is informed that assessment of damage compensation of other families is under progress.
The damages pertain to structural faults due to the project work including cracks and also signs of sinking in some places. Apart from that, it is informed, that these properties and houses of the identified families are to be acquired by the government under the Land Acquisition Act.
The 5 evacuated families have been relocated and their rent in their new quarters is being provided by the Airports Authority, which is undertaking the Pakyong Airport construction. The evacuation of the rest of the identified families is also under consideration.

Stakeholders promote Sikkim Winter Carnival in Kolkata

GANGTOK, 16 Dec: Following the decision of the core committee meeting constituted to host the Sikkim Winter Carnival 2013, a delegation comprising of members of Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, Travel Agents Association of Sikkim [TAAS] and Sikkim Hotels and Restaurants Association [SHRA] organised a promotional meet on Sikkim Winter Carnival 2013 and future promotion of Sikkim in Kolkata on 14 December.
A press release informs that the event was organised by Tourism Department in coordination with TAAS and SHRA and a large number of invitees comprising government officials, travel writers, journalists, local television, photo journalists, tour operators, Confederation of Indian Industry, Indian Chamber of Commerce, etc were present.
Senior tour operator, Randip Khati gave a presentation on the Sikkim Winter Carnival, its main features, activities for tourists.
Overview of destinations in Sikkim, various activities like adventure, pilgrimage tourism, Eco & village tourism, etc was presented by TAAS president, Satish Bardewa. SHRA president in her address conveyed the greetings from the people of Sikkim to the gathering and announced 40% discount to tourists during the Festival at hotels in Sikkim on booking through local tour operators of the state, the release mentions. TAAS vice president, Jeetendra Lama gave an audio-visual presentation on Sikkim Tourism.
The Regional Director, Eastern Region, Ministry of Tourism, BB Mukherjee, who was also the chief guest of the function, appreciated the efforts of Sikkim’s Tourism Department for its initiatives on organising such festivals. He also offered all assistance and help to Sikkim Tourism in all print publications of “Incredible India” to highlight and further include comprehensive information on Sikkim covering more details on overall destinations & its updates of Sikkim. He has asked the TAAS president to follow up the matter with the Additional Director General, Ministry of Tourism at New Delhi.
TAAS president, in his address, credited the Government of Sikkim and active stakeholders for the state’s achievements in tourism. He highlighted the various initiatives and achievements of the state. Mr Bardewa informed the gathering about the Chief Minister’s plan to build 100 different tourist destinations in Sikkim.
“We have chosen Kolkata as the venue since the State of Bengal has the most active explorers and Sikkim has always been a good host. Sikkim is also their nearest getaway holiday destination. It is not just the Sikkim Winter carnival 2013 but the future promotion of Sikkim that we are looking at with the support of Travel Agents Association of Bengal [TAAB]”, he said.
TAAB vice president, Kaushik Kaur in his address said that Bengal and Sikkim not only share a common gateway for tourists to the country’s Eastern region but also share a strong bond of friendship & brotherhood.
It was proposed that a meeting between TAAS & TAAB be organised to discuss common issues and future promotion of tourism in Sikkim. TAAB has also invited TAAS for a FAM trip to Sundarbans this winter, it is informed.
During an open house discussion, most of the invitees suggested that Sikkim Tourism should organise such a Carnival every year so that visitors can plan their schedule well in advance while tour operators can also market and publicise the event in their itinerary.
TAAS president has invited travel writers, photo journalists and tour operators from TAAB to the Sikkim Winter Carnival. It was also proposed that 20 tour operators from Malaysia want to visit Sikkim in January for the future promotion of Sikkim. TAAS assured that the same will be informed and submitted to the Minister and Secretary of Sikkim Tourism Department to coordinate the FAM trip as desired by the Malaysian tour operators.
Earlier, Assistant Director, Sikkim Tourism- Kolkata, Chewang Pulger, gave the welcome address.

Tumin-Lingee felicitates 21 teachers

MANGAN, 16 Dec: Twenty-one teachers, which include 11 senior most and 10 outstanding teachers of Tumin-Lingee constituency, were felicitated on Sunday at a special function jointly organized by the youth of Tumin-Lingee and Tumin-Lingee Teacher’s Forum at Mayfair Resort. HRD Minister, NK Pradhan, was present as chief guest accompanied by Tumin-Lingee MLA, Ugen T Gyatso Bhutia.
Congratulating the awardee teachers, Mr. Bhutia highlighted on the importance of education and urged all teachers to work with dedication since the government has provided every facility to the teachers of Sikkim.
HRDD Minister, NK Pradhan expressed his happiness over the award function and stated that such functions will further encourage teachers to perform better. He urged all the teachers to conduct winter coaching camps to help students in their studies.
The 11 senior teachers who were felicitated are Som Nath Dahal, (PRT, Tintek-Chuba Pry School), Purni Maya Sharma, (PRT Phalaichadara JHS), Topgay Pintso Lepcha (LLT, Upper Lingmoo PS), Sonam Tashi Lepcha (LLT, Suryodhaya JHS), Ugen Lepcha (LLT, Dikchu SSS), Bishnu Sharma (PRT, Tumin-Barang PS), Ongmula Bhutia (PRT Samdong SSS), Dali Maya Giri (PRT, Rakdong-Tintek JHS), Ram Prasad Sharma, (PRT, Liingmoo Pepthang PS), DN Khanal (GT Arts Raley-Khesey JHS) and Rupa Bhutia (PRT Samdoong SSS) among the 11 senior teachers.
The 10 outstanding teachers felicitated are Penchung Lepcha (LLT, Lingee SSS), Chhoden Lepcha, (HM Incharge, Lingee-Payong JHS), Manjeela Rai (GT Arts, Makha SS), Chumti Kazi (HM, Machilakha PS), PT Kazi (PRT Tumin-Barang PS), TN Koirala (GT Arts, Phalaichadara JHS), SP Ghimerey, (PRT Lower Samdong SS), YN Sapkota, (PET, Samdong SSS), Nirmala Khatiwara, (PRT Marchak PS) and Kewal Prasad Nepal, (PRT Tintek Saraswati PS).

Trinamool Congress dharna demands restoration of Nepali and Tsong seats

GANGTOK, 16 Dec: Sikkim Pradesh Trinamool Congress [SPTMC] members, led by their president, PT Lucksom, sat on a daylong dharna in front of the District Administration Centre here today demanding the restoration of lost seats of Nepali and Tsong [Limboo] communities in the State Legislative Assembly. Executive and other members of the party from different parts of the state joined in today’s dharna.
Mr, Lucksom mentioned that the main objective of the dharna was to demand the restoration of Nepali and Tsong seats in the state assembly. The SPTMC also plans to send a representation to the Governor and to its central committee members on this issue, he said, adding that TMC MPs in the Parliament have also promised to bring this issue up in the House.
The party will continue with its activities until these lost seats are restored, he said.
SPTMC general secretary, Tshering Wangchuk Lepcha stated that social justice and political justice go hand in hand. He added that Sikkim needs to bring back its pride, dignity, honor and a sense of belonging which has been lost in the greed for power and money.
“Forty-two TMC MPs in the Parliament will speak for the lost seats in the near future,” he announced.
He also mentioned that SPTMC will be submitting its memorandum on the same to the central body general secretary, Mukul Roy soon.

Suicide in West Sikkim

GANGTOK, 16 Dec: A 30-year-old man reportedly committed suicide in West Sikkim on 15 December. The resident of Dara Gaon, Timburbung in West Sikkim committed suicide by hanging from a tree at Chettri Dhunga jungle, it is informed.

SKM now a registered political party

GANGTOK, 16 Dec: Sikkim Krantikari Morcha, formed in 04 February earlier this year, is now a registered political party.
PS Tamang [Golay], in a press release issued from New Delhi today, informs that the party has been registered as a regional party by the Election Commission of India. He has thanked party workers, well-wishers, students, the party’s Nari Morcha, intellectuals, government employees, business community and many others who have extended support to the party.
Stating that SKM will not let them down, Mr. Tamang further expresses that the official registration of the party will boost the tempo of party activities. The registration of the party marks the end of corruption, communalism, discrimination and other ills prevailing under the present government, he adds.
Mr. Tamang has urged party workers to continue their fight to uproot the ruling party from power in the assembly election next year.

SDF opens 11 GPU-level party offices in Dzongu

MANGAN, 16 Dec: The Sikkim Democratic Front [SDF] opened GPU level party offices at 11 GPUs of Dzongu in North Sikkim in a series of inaugurations held in the presence of area MLA Sonam Gyatso Lepcha, North Zilla Adhakshya Anguli Lepcha, North District general secretary, Hangu Tshering Bhutia, District president, Khamsoong Lepcha, general secretary ASDLF, Norjang Lepcha, panchayat and zilla members, councilors, youth, cheli and party supporters.
On 14 December, three GPU level offices were opened for Lum/Gor/Sangtok GPU, Hee-Gyathang GPU and Lingdong-Borfok GPU. On 15 December, four more were inaugurated for Lingthem-Lingdem, Saffo Passingdong, Tingvong and Sakyong-Pentong GPUs.
Similarly, on 16 December three more party offices were inaugurated for Mangshilla-Tibuk GPU, Namok-Swayem and Tingchim-Chandey GPU. On 14 December, four Congress supporters from Hee-Gyathang joined SDF party where they were welcomef by area MLA and other party members.
Speaking at the function, the area MLA highlighted that the SDF government has brought substantial development to Dzongu and urged the people to cooperate with the SDF party. He also said that the party office should be utilized for the purpose of party activities and to address grievances of the people.
The ASDLF general secretary in turn highlighted that grievances placed by the public during the earlier Yuva Jagaran Abhiyan have been printed out in book form and presented to the Chief Minister.
The general secretary North of the party urged the panchayats to work more for the welfare of the people and also said that the panchayats should include genuine beneficiaries in the list for the upcoming Janta Mela.
The North Zilla Adhakshya urged all the panchayats and zilla members to work in coordination with departmental officials and to make sure that the resolutions passed during the gram sabha should be given priority.

Run for water

GANGTOK, 16 Dec [IPR]: The Department of Irrigation and Flood Control in coordination with the Sports and Affairs Department is organizing an Open Run to mark the ‘Water Conservation Year-2013’ on 19 December. The run will be flagged off from Titanic Park, Gangtok on 19 December 2013 at 8.30 am.
The route will cover Zero Point (DHH-Technical), White Hall, around Tsuklakhang Monastery (Palace), HRDD (Education Office), Dukhit Pan Dokan, Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Star Hall (Old Market) finishing at Titanic park, (M.G. Marg).

Sikkim cultural troupe felicitated in Maharastra

GANGTOK, 16 Dec: A cultural troupe from Sikkim is on a three-day visit to Maharashtra from 15-18 December. The troupe is participating in a cultural event at Karad and Pune.
A press release informs that the organizing committee of the event felicitated the 32-member team from Sikkim at Tahid Village, Karad, Satara District, Maharashtra today. The Governor of Sikkim, Shriniwas Patil was also present at the function.
The troupe will be performing at an event in Pune on 17 December, it is informed.

Regional Training Camp begins for 71st Round of National Sample Survey

GANGTOK, 16 Dec [PIB]: The National Sample Survey (NSS) will start its 71st Round from 01 January, 2014. The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), Gangtok under the Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation is holding a three-day Training Camp for the NSS 71st Round of Socio Economic Survey.
The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), Field Operations Division (FOD), Gangtok and DESM&E, Sikkim will carry out the 71st Round survey for the Central and State samples respectively for a period of six months starting from 01 January, 2014.
This survey will cover whole of Sikkim through 64 samples (40 in Rural areas & 24 in Urban areas) to be conducted by NSSO while equal number of samples have been earmarked for DESM&E. The information will be collected from small but representative section of the population; following scientifically designed sampling techniques, a stratified multi-stage design to arrive at reliable estimates regarding the population.
From each sample, 16 households in both rural & urban areas will be selected following Statistical Methodology for detailed enquiry.
The NSS 71st Round will be exclusively devoted to the subjects of Social Consumption “Health & Morbidity and Education & Literacy”. The objectives and scope of the survey are briefly given below:
Health and Morbidity: The main objective of the survey on Health and Morbidity is to study the benefits derived by various sections of population from the investments made by the Government, as well as by the private sector in the field of health and to provide  nationwide and state wise estimates of the utilization of the curative health care services, morbidity profile of the population, and hospitalized and non-hospitalised treatment of ailments, together with the estimates of expenditure incurred for treatment of ailments.
Further, this survey intends to obtain a profile of the aged persons including their economic dependence and illness.
Education and IT Literacy: The main objective of the survey on Education and IT Literacy is to obtain data on nature and quantum of benefits received by the people from Government as well as corporate/private institutional expenditure on educational services and expenditure incurred by the households on education.
The Regional Training Camp was inaugurated today by SD Tshering [Director General cum Secretary, DESM&E]. CK Dorjee [Director, PIB, Government of India] and Dr. TK Mandal [Officer In Charge, Ayurved Regional Research Institute, Government of India] were also present as special guests.
The Training Camp has been organised to impart training to all the survey personnel on the concepts and definitions used for the survey so that they will be well acquainted with the subjects of the survey. One-day field training will also follow to have a hands-on training on the last day of the Training Camp.
In his key note address, S Chattopadhyay [Deputy Director General, NSSO (FOD), Gangtok] emphasized the importance of the survey on Social Consumption of Health and Education and described the objectives and derivatives of the survey.
Dr. TK Mandal [Officer In charge of Ayurved Regional Research Institute], in his speech emphasized the importance of health information for the Government for policy formulations and gave a brief of various health measures provided by their office.  CK Dorjee, congratulated the efforts of NSSO in conducting various surveys to enrich the health and education statistics to provide very important data for all the users.
Director General cum Secretary, DESM&E, SD Tshering in his inaugural speech mentioned different aspects of health and education statistics and their need in the Government for various policy issues.   He mentioned about the health data generated by the Government of Sikkim, which shows many untold features about the health status of the people of Sikkim.  He also mentioned about the different indicators on this survey and how this data gives impetus to the government for making various projects and policies at their end.

Windstorm update from North district

GANGTOK, 16 Dec: Sunday morning’s windstorm has damaged government property worth Rs 1.45 crore in North district while Revenue Surveyors are assessing damages to private properties in the district.
District Collector North, CP Dhakal informs that power supply has been restored in Mangan bazaar and water supply has been restored in Mangan and Pentok. No damages have been reported from Lachung and Lachen as of now while all roads in the district have been restored. Compensation for damages will be released soon, he adds.

HOT MIXING PLANT NEAR RANIKHOLA POLLUTING AIR

Letter:-
Hot Mixing Plant installed by GREF at NH 31A, opposite Nimtar Rehabilitation Centre, near Ranikhola river bank, is polluting the air here. The smoke that the plant emits is affecting people of the surrounding villages of Nimtar, Martam, 32 No. This raises a lot of concern especially with regard to children and the elderly.
We request the concerned authority to take appropriate action, so that the people can breathe in fresh air.
Residents of Nimtar

Gorkha Rashtriya Congress to contest 2014 Lok Sabha elections on Darj-Sikkim merger plank

PARTY FINALISES CANDIDATE FOR DARJ, SHORTLISTS NAMES FOR SIKKIM
GANGTOK, 16 Dec: The Gorkha Rashtriya Congress Committee [GRCC] of Darjeeling held a press conference here today to declare their candidate for the upcoming 2014 Lok Sabha elections from Darjeeling.
Chief coordinator of the committee, Subodh Pakhrin, informed that about a month ago, the core committee meeting of the GRCC was held in Darjeeling where the names of five people from the party were selected and the final candidate chosen to fight the MP elections from the party is Nima Lama, the GRCC party president.
The press conference here was addressed by Nima Lama [president], Amar Lucksom [general secretary] and Subodh Pakhrin [chief coordinator].
“Since Darjeeling is a part of Sikkim and vice versa, we thought that the people of Sikkim should also know about their chosen candidate for the elections. After holding further talks within the party, we will also be declaring a party candidate to fight for the elections from Gangtok for which three to four people have been shortlisted,” he stated.
In his address, the GRCC president argued that since Darjeeling and Dooars were lost territories of Sikkim, they have to be given back to Sikkim which is the main agenda of the party.
“It is time now for all intellectuals and politicians from Sikkim and Darjeeling to come forward and address this issue,” he said. This, he stated would only be possible if the Sikkim government takes strong action towards this end.
“Even former Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, in 1978 had spoken about Darjeeling-Sikkim merger in Parliament. She had urged the Darjeeling District Congress Committee to create public opinion regarding the issue. During the Gorkhaland agitation in 1986, the then Jyoti Basu government had even taken out a white paper stating that Darjeeling belonged to Sikkim,” he contended.
“There will be no loss to Sikkim if Darjeeling is merged with it, in fact the entire revenue of Rs. 4,000 crore which is going to the West Bengal government will come to the Sikkim. Darjeeling has 82 tea gardens compared to just one in Sikkim, which is a major revenue earner; even Siliguri which is a major economic hub would fall within the state and this would be good for Sikkim’s economy,” he stated.

Boys’ Club wins Gangtok-leg of U-14 Snow Lion Cup

GANGTOK, 16 Dec: Boys’ Club has emerged the champion of the Gangtok-leg of the Snow Lion Cup Under-14 Boys Football Tournament held here at Paljor Stadium. In a contesting final match played this afternoon, Boys’ Club outplayed Sanju Pradhan Football Academy of Sombaria 2-0.
The winning and runners-up team players were provided with certificates.
The final match had ADGP, Sikkim Police, SD Negi, as the chief guest, who was accompanied by Sikkim Football Association general secretary, Menla Ethenpa as the guest of honour, USFC CEO, Bhaichung Bhutia, Denzong Boyz president Phurba Sherpa and Sports & Youth Affairs Deputy Director, Thupden Rapgyal.
A total of eleven teams had participated in the tournament and were divided into two groups playing league matches. Boys’ Club had topped Group A while Sanju Pradhan FA was the winner of Group B.
Now, Boys’ Club will take on the winner of Darjeeling and Kalimpong legs of the tournament in the final round of the tournament which is being organized by the United Sikkim Football Club.
The Darjeeling leg of the tournament will begin 19 December followed by Kalimpong from 22 December onwards and the winners of the three venues will play a triangular tournament.

DISTRICT AUTHORITIES TAKE STOCK OF WINDSTORM DAMAGE

19 kutcha houses damaged in East Sikkim, overhang clearing and power restoration works underway
GANGTOK, 16 Dec: Following the windstorm in the early hours of 15 December, the East District Administration has taken adequate steps to immediately restore public utilities damaged in and around the district, District Collector [East], Jitendra Singh Raje, informs.
In a press release, the DC informs that immediately after information about the damages was received, all the Sub-Divisional Magistrates, Gram Vikash Adhikaris and Revenue Surveyors were directed to report the damages caused due to the wind storm. Site inspection was carried out by the District Collector, Additional District Collector (Reforms), SDM Gangtok and DPO/DM in-and-around Gangtok. Immediate action was taken by Forest, Road & Bridges, Police Rescue Team, Civil Defense and QRT members for clearing the roads for vehicular movement.
Till now, as per reports received from the field officials, 19 Kutcha houses have been damaged out of which 5 have been fully damaged, 5 severely damaged and 9 partially damaged. Not much damage has been reported from the rural areas of the district till now, it is mentioned.
The field officials have been directed to submit the damage report within the next seven days. As of now, all roads are clear in the district and water supply is normal as per the report from the concerned departments.
90 percent of the work for removal of trees hanging and posing threat to public properties has been done as reported by DFO (T).
The restoration of power supply to the affected areas is being undertaken on a war-footing and is being monitored by the District Administration. As reported by Energy & Power Department there has been extensive damage in certain areas of the district including the outskirts of Gangtok that might take a couple of days more for restoration. The ex gratia relief to the family of the deceased girl at Bye Pass and all injured in the windstorm has been approved by the District Administration, it is informed.

Constituency-level Badminton tourney at Daragaon

GANGTOK, 16 Dec: A constituency-level badminton tournament will begin from Tuesday at SNT Colony, Tadong, Daragaon. The tournament will be inaugurated by Minister, Urban Development and Housing Development Department, DB Thapa. A total of 50 players in three categories are participating in this three-day tourney.
The constituency level tournament is being organized by EPCS Church (Greendale), Tadong. The trophy is donated by the family members of Late Elder TB Rai with assistance from Tadong ward Councilor, Bhaskar Basnett.
The tournament has three categories, Men’s singles, Men’s doubles and Veterans’ doubles. Dup Tshering Lepcha, a member of the organizing committee informs that the objective behind the tournament is to spread the message ‘Avoid Drugs and Save Life’.
Mr. Lepcha further mentioned that MLA Menlom Lepcha will be present as the chief guest for the finals of the tournament.

CM’s greetings on Teyongsi Sirijunga Sawan Tongnam

GANGTOK, 16 Dec: Chief Minister Pawan Chamling and Ms. Tika Maya Chamling have extended their warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Sikkim on the occasion of Teyongsi Sirijunga Sawan Tongnam.

CM FLAGS OFF SIKKIM CONTINGENT ON SSB-SPONSORED STUDY TOUR:

 As part of the events for Sashastra Seema Bal’s [SSB] 50th anniversary, Chief Minister Pawan Chamling today flagged off a study tour for 16 Sikkim girls to New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur and an educational excursion cum agricultural training for 24 farmers to Pusa Agriculture University, New Delhi. SSB is organizing the tour as part of its “Discovering India” initiative. The function, held at White Memorial Hall, was also attended by Speaker KT Gyaltsen.

SBTSO forms Ranipool branch

GANGTOK, 16 Dec: Sikkim Bihari Trade and Social Organisation [SBTSO] formed its Ranipool branch in a meeting held on Sunday. A press release informs that around 42 new members from the area were present in the meeting.
The Ranipool Branch committee has Upendra Jaiswal as president, Dinesh Prasad and Dharmendra Prasad as vice presidents, Shakti Prasad as general secretary, Bijay Prasad as joint secretary, Ranjit Byahut, Raj Kishore Prasad and Arun Thakur as publicity secretaries, Subodh Jaiswal as treasurer and Subash Prasad as assistant treasurer.
Birendra Shah, Ajay Prasad, Manan Prasad, Arun Sharma and Chathdhari Prasad are the advisors of the committee.
The release states that a new organization of “educated, young and energetic people” has been formed to work for the development of the society “since the Sikkim Bihari Jagran Manch has failed in functioning properly”.

22nd Sikkim Half Marathon on X-Mas eve

GANGTOK, 16 Dec: Sikkim Amateur Athletic Association [SAAA] has announced plans to hold the 22nd Sikkim Half Marathon on 24 December in collaboration with the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department as part of the Winter Carnival celebrations here.
The event has three categories - Open Category [21 Kms Men & Women], Under 15 yrs [15 Kms. Boys & Girls] and Under 12 yrs [10 Kms for Boys & Girls].
An SAAA press release issued by its president DIG-Range, Dr. MS Tuli, informs that cash prizes of more than Rs. 1.5 lakh will be given out to the winners of the various categories.
The marathon will take off from Paljor Stadium. The reporting time has been set for 6:30 AM at the venue on 24 December 2013. The entry forms are available at Oswal Corporation, New Market, Gangtok and the last date of submission of entry forms is 21 December 2013.

More Pictures of WindStorm that hit Sikkim on 15th December 2013

Windstorm kills child in her sleep in Gangtok

GANGTOK, 15 Dec: Gangtok, last night, got a taste of a different type of natural calamity, a windstorm. The heavy windstorm last night brought down the mercury along with trees, branches, electric poles, sheds and houses. In a tragic incident, the strong winds also claimed the life of 11-year-old Savitri Chettri [also known as Marina Chettri, as she is referred to in official updates] who was killed in her sleep when a gigantic tree crashed on her dwelling at Indira Byepass.
The wind started picking up at around midnight and was in full force by 2 a.m., howling in a sinister fashion throughout and it was apparent that the morning would bring news of some disaster.
Come morning, the first responders, the police along with SAP and Forest personnel were seen in action clearing off debris, branches and tree trunks from the roads at different locations especially the highway. Apart from trees, the windstorm also brought down electricity poles at Swastik and Burtuk as a result of which the area was plunged into darkness for most of the night.
The winds also blew away corrugated sheet roofs from several houses. People could be seen trying to salvage the material or put up a makeshift arrangement for a roof.
Among the damaged dwellings was the house of Jagat Kumar Chettri, grandfather of the deceased Savitri Chettri. This was a kutcha house just below the Indira Byepass a few metres from the SDF party office. Here, a huge tree against which the house had been constructed was toppled over by the winds and collapsed on top of the house, crushing it completely. While Savitri was fatally injured, three others of the family managed to escape with injuries. Jagat Kumar, 85 years of age, is reported to be in critical condition with a head injury and is presently under treatment at the STNM Hospital.
The incident occurred at night; there were 4 family members in the house; however one of the other children awoke with the noise of the tree collapsing and immediately ran out and thus was saved. Savitri was still alive when they rushed her to the hospital.
At Swastik, another tree came down and crashed on a parked vehicle. Two electric poles have also been flattened. A linesman from the Power Department at the site informed that the poles were flattened by crashing trees. As a result, all the areas to which the poles transmitted power are now without electricity. These areas include, Swastik, Burtuk, Bojoghari and Selep Tanki as well as the local army establishment.
As informed by the linesman, it would take up to a week to get the poles up and transmitting again. The residents of the area may be supplied power from another line. One of the electric poles was near Man Bahadur Biswakarma’s workshop which has also collapsed. This was also a kutcha shed where he made khukris and other items.
At Hospital Dara, below the High Court a tree came crashing down causing a traffic pile up in the morning. Police personnel were seen organizing the clearing with the help of labourers.  Another house at Bye pass belonging to Lobsang Lepcha was also damaged. A tree fell on his multi storey house at around 4:30 a.m. and has damaged the roof. SAP personnel along with their Deputy Commandant, R Bhutia were seen assisting the clearing process. The Dy Commandant and his team of SAP personnel were engaged in clearing the Bye pass road of trees and branches and other material the entire morning and afternoon thus making it motor-able.
A full assessment of the damages caused by the windstorm is awaited.
Meanwhile, one platoon of Sikkim Disaster Relief Force has been deployed from early morning which has been working in full swing for managing the calamity. Disaster District Control Room is functional 24/7 and any person affected can contact 03592-204995 or 03592-221566 Ext 700. The State administration has appealed to the public that everything is under control and public are requested not to panic.
Total 48 houses in Swastik, Bojoghari, Lingdok, Tashi Viewpoint, Taktse, Lower Burtuk are reported to have sustained damage.