GANGTOK, 16 March: The Gangtok Fire Station has been keeping busy for the past few days putting out a rash of forest fires. Due to the reasonably dry spell compounded by clearing of fields for maize [in which the weeds are usually burned out], the Gangtok Fire Station has been receiving reports of many bush-fires from different parts across the district.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Bush-fire alarms keep Gangtok Fire Station busy
GANGTOK, 16 March: The Gangtok Fire Station has been keeping busy for the past few days putting out a rash of forest fires. Due to the reasonably dry spell compounded by clearing of fields for maize [in which the weeds are usually burned out], the Gangtok Fire Station has been receiving reports of many bush-fires from different parts across the district.
Textbooks supplier runs into trouble after running late on delivery
EMBOLDENED BY PUBLIC TONGUE-LASHING BY CM, HRDD CUTS NOTICES AGAINST SUPPLIER, MULLS BLACKLISTING
SUBASH RAI
Government schools are now more than a month into a new academic session [they reopened on 07 Feb 2011] and the supply of textbooks late by a fortnight from the final deadline of 03 March. The supplier, who had reportedly fibbed excuses blaming the printers to demanding increase in rates to even flaunting his “connections”. The Department was frustrated, and even as it contemplated action against the supplier, final motivation came from the public tongue-lashing served up by Chief Minister Pawan Chamling yesterday, pulling up the supplier for the inexcusable delay in delivering the text books.
Once again, it took an initiative by the Chief Minister to ensure concrete results, and the Human Resource Development Department was in a flurry of activity today, hammering out a notice to the truant supplier and even contemplating black-listing him from future printing jobs.
Delhi High Court dismisses BJP petition accusing CM of dual citizenship
GANGTOK, 16 March: The dual citizenship allegations filed against Chief Minister Pawan Chamling by BJP Sikkim-unit president, Padam Bahadur Chettri and Padam Pd. Sharma, in the Delhi High Court was dismissed yesterday, informs an SDF press release.
Major fire breaks out at Sokpay reserve forest
The spot falls on the border of North and South districts. A North District Forest team, led by Range Officer (Territorial), TW Lachungpa, visited the North jurisdiction at Lum and Lingtyang forests along with the ward panchayat, Tshering Gyatso Lepcha to undertake precautionary measures as the villages of Lum, Lingtyang and Podom of Lower Dzongu could come under risk if the fire enters the North district.
Mr. Lachungpa, while speaking to NOW!, informed that the Ramphok Khola, which falls between these two districts, should work as fire-break and prevent the fire from entering the North district.
[WANGCHUK BHUTIA]
Denzong Boyz and United Sikkim carry Sikkim’s soccer ambitions into 2nd Div I-League
SAGAR CHHETRI
GANGTOK, 16 Mar: Expectations are riding high on Sikkim’s performance in the latest season of the second division I-League. Its presence is also more substantial this year with not only two clubs [against last year’s single club] making it to the grade, but also the fact that Bhaichung Bhutia and Renedy Singh will be playing for Sikkim clubs alongside a smart array of imported players. In fact, local interest in the teams has peaked to a level with enquiries already coming in on match fixtures and venues. If all goes well, Sikkim will explode stronger into the football scene before the season closes.
Making to the second division I-League for the second consecutive year is Denzong Boy’s Football Club [DBFC], joined this season by Bhaichung Bhutia’s United Sikkim Football Club [USFC] which makes its debut in the league this year.
Indigenous Theatre Festival to visit Gangtok
The two-day IGNCA, Indigenous Theatre Festival and
Workshop of North East India will be held on 19 and 20 March at the College auditorium, Sikkim Government College, informs an official press release.
The festival is being organized by Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, New Delhi and (NER Centre of IGNCA, Guwahati) Srimati Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, Guwahati in association with the Cultural Affairs and Heritage Department, Government of Sikkim.
Theatre plays from Nagaland and Meghalaya will be staged at the festival, informs the release.
Sikkim’s Tibetans want Dalai Lama to reconsider
 |
| A NOW! file foto of the Dalai Lama speaking to Tibetans at Tsuklakhang, Gangtok |
“AS FAR AS WE ARE CONCERNED, NO ONE AND NO POLITICAL PARTY CAN FILL THE VACUUM HIS HOLINESS LEAVES”
ANAND OBEROI
GANGTOK, 15 March: The formal proposal of the Dalai Lama to retire as the political head of the state and the decision of the Tibetan Cabinet to accept his resignation to retire as the political head of the exiled Tibetan government has raised a stir of reactions from the Tibetan community in Sikkim. Joining Tibetans across the world, Tibetans here have beseeched the Dalai Lama to reconsider, pleading that they do not know how and do not want to continue without their Kundun as their religious and titular head.
Emotional outcry from various sections, including the Tibetan Settlement, Gangtok [earlier known as the Tibetan Welfare Office], the Tibetan Youth Club and the Tibetan Women’s Association started coming in soon after the Tibetan Cabinet today accepted the Dalai Lama’s decision.
Hoax SMS flashing radiation alert circulates in Sikkim as well
GANGTOK, 16 Mar: “BBC Flash news: Japan Government confirms radiation leak at Fukushima nuclear plants. Asian countries should take necessary precautions. If rain comes, remain indoors first 24 hours. Close doors and windows. Swab neck skin with betadine where thyroid area is, radiation hits thyroid first. Take extra precautions. Radiation may hit Philippine at around 4 pm today. Pls forward this msg to as many as possible” – reads the hoax text message that has been going around since the day before.
Educators being empowered with ICT tools to teach better
GANGTOK, 16 March: The existing approach of “Chalk and Talk” in the education system will be phased out by 2015, with ICT Tools becoming teaching tools as the State government pursues its vision to make Sikkim a 100 percent literate state with its schools dispensing quality education. The focus is on development of infrastructure, teacher- training programmes, and now introduction of new methods of ‘improvised quality education” in all government schools.
The Human Resource Development Department, considering this very important dissemination of ‘quality education’, has, in collaboration with IGNOU and Intel, launched a new programme called “Empowering Educators to Innovate” which is basically using Information, Communication and Technology as a ‘tool’ to first educate the principals and teachers on ‘intricate’ subjects such as mathematics and science using ICT tools.
Sikkim Prays for Japan
GANGTOK, 16 March: It was more touching moment for Tatsuki Shirai to join the candlelight vigil ‘Sikkim prays for Japan’ initiated by the Press Club of Sikkim to express solidarity towards tsunami victims in Japan last evening at Titanic Park.
Tatasuki is from Japan and presently enrolled at the Sikkim Government College under the Sikkim University.
Members from different organizations and local gentry of the capital joined the vigil.
Confront Violence
editorial:
Little over a week ago, a youth in his early twenties was shot outside a local discotheque by a person old enough to be his father. The violence was triggered by a minor altercation inside the disco. The victim survived the gunshot through sheer luck. The intent to kill in the finger which pulled the trigger is obvious from the fact that the youth was shot in the neck at point-blank range. News of the incident shocked Sikkim, as it rightly should, because it brought the society face to face with a new kind violence– a violence which was alien to Sikkim in its bloodlust. Violence is not new to any society, and fights and fisticuffs are not rare in the State either. The nature of violence in the past was mostly of the kind which lashed in the heat of the moment, and while the rare case ended in an accidental fatality, these mostly closed with bruises, sprains and the occasional broken bone. Most of the times, these were closed with a “compromise”. In the latest instance, the use of a gun and the intent to kill has added a new, very worrying dimension in the absence of matching incitement.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Deptt to go by merit list to fill vacancies in CM’s Special Merit Scholarship Scheme
ACCUSED TEACHERS HAVE ADMITTED TO HAVING FORGED DOCUMENTS
GANGTOK, 15 Mar: Two students, next in line in the merit list [who secured the 25th and 26th positions] of the screening test will be replacing vacancies created in the Chief Minister’s Merit Scholarship scheme. This, following the uncovering of a fraud played out by the headmaster of Suntaley Junior High School and two other teachers who forged documents to enable their wards to sit for the screening test and get sponsored to reputed schools. [click here, here and here for background details]
Director, HRDD, CS Rao, while speaking to NOW! today, informed that the two students who secured the 25th and 26th ranks in the screening test will be joining Tashi Namgyal Academy and Pineridge School in Himachal Pradesh now.
GANGTOK, 15 Mar: Two students, next in line in the merit list [who secured the 25th and 26th positions] of the screening test will be replacing vacancies created in the Chief Minister’s Merit Scholarship scheme. This, following the uncovering of a fraud played out by the headmaster of Suntaley Junior High School and two other teachers who forged documents to enable their wards to sit for the screening test and get sponsored to reputed schools. [click here, here and here for background details]
Director, HRDD, CS Rao, while speaking to NOW! today, informed that the two students who secured the 25th and 26th ranks in the screening test will be joining Tashi Namgyal Academy and Pineridge School in Himachal Pradesh now.
Panchayats and professors from Rajasthan visit Melli-Dara Paiyong GPU
GANGTOK, 15 March: A 14-member team consisting of Presidents of District, Block and Gram along with professors of Indira Gandhi Panchayati Raj and Gramin Vikas Sansthan of Rajasthan visited the Village Administrative Centre of 22-Melli Dara Paiyong Gram Panchayat Unit yesterday.
The delegates were here to understand the Panchayati Raj System of Sikkim and the role played by Panchayats in various developmental activities, informs a press release. In an interactive meeting, President, Melli Dara Paiyong GPU, Ganesh K. Rai, gave a presentation on the activities of the unit.
The delegates appreciated the initiatives taken by the GPU and also enquired about the activities undertaken by Self Help Groups under the Sampoorna Gramin Swarojgar Yojna (SGSY), informs the release. The visit was coordinated by Assistant Director, Sikkim Institute of Rural Development, Chandra Kala Rai.
Another month and Paljor Stadium with flaunt a smart astroturf
SAGAR CHHETRI
GANGTOK, 14 March: Around 70% of the work to lay artificial turf at Paljor Stadium has been completed and the work expected to be completed by mid-April. The laying of Field Turf Outdoor Series of 65 mm thickness has been underway since 01 January at a sanctioned project cost Rs 3.77 crores.
Speaking to NOW! some days back, the Secretary, Sports & Youth Affairs, Karma P Bhutia, mentioned that the work has been underway on a war-footing and was on schedule.
Short-sighted planning and poor monitoring riles affected villagers
SUBASH RAI
GANGTOK, 14 Mar: Lack of proper planning by the concerned officials is the main shortcoming leading to the problems being suffered due to the Lower Barbing PMGSY road construction project. The under construction road from Ranka Rai Gaon to Rey Khola Swimming Pool area has become a hazard for the villagers as they are witnessing irreparable loss to their properties. The contractor assigned the job is also suffering problems because the villagers there are threatening to stop the work if the destruction continues.
The problem surfaced in the first week of February when phase-II of the construction started. It was Namgyal Bhutia, a resident, who first noticed that the alignment of the road was not following the original survey which had been endorsed by all villagers. [for background details, click here, here and here]
"Jaago Re Soccer Stars Season 4" to debut in Sikkim
GANGTOK, 14 MARCH: ‘Arsenal Tata Tea Jaago Re Soccer Stars’, the national tournament from Tata Tea in association with Arsenal FC, UK, will be coming to Gangtok for the first time in its fourth edition with the zonal round to be held at the Tashi Namgyal Academy ground, on 19 and 20 March, informs a press release.
Women’s empowerment has powered Sikkim’s development: CM
Rael Chu bridge strengthening work cuts off Chungthang
MANGAN, 15 March: The road from Mangan to Chungthang will remain closed to traffic till 20 March in view of the strengthening of the Rechu (Rel khola) Iron Bridge connecting the two towns, informed BRO officials posted in the area.
The strengthening of the Rechu bridge in North Sikkim which is around 20 kms from Mangan towards Chungthang by the BRO and Army Engineering division started on 12 March. The iron bridge which had become weak and was posing problems for heavy vehicles will be further widened, it is informed.
As there is no alternative route the BRO has urged people of Chungthang, Lachen, Lachung and Saffo to cooperate for the future benefit of all. Meanwhile, commuters are plying through transshipment at this spot.
[WANGCHUK BHUTIA]
27 year old arrested on charges of sexual assault of minor
GANGTOK, 14 March: A 27 year-old man was arrested by Namchi police late last night on charges of having sexually assaulted a 14 year old minor. The accused, one Suraj Rai, a resident of Darjeeling, was living in Ghurbisey near the south district headquarter town. He is alleged to have lured the minor to the nearby forested area and sexually molested her at around 3:30 p.m. yesterday.
As per police records, the girl’s mother has informed that the child was on her way to a friend’s house when the incident transpired. It was only later in the night, at around 8 p.m., that the victim told her mother about the incident after which she filed a complaint with the police.
The accused is reported to have absconded from the area after the incident but was later arrested by the Namchi police and a case registered against him. He is presently in police custody and the case under investigation. The victim has also been sent for medical examination to the district hospital and the examination report is awaited, it is learnt.
Finally, some reprieve after a fortnight of uncertainty
 |
| Meg Bahadur Rai clambers up to the road alignment where a departmental enquiry team had arrived to investigate losses suffered by him due to road excavation work |
SUBASH RAI
GANGTOK, 14 Mar: After close to a month of uncertainty, finally, on 09 March, 55-year-old Meg Bahadur Rai of Lower Barbing saw officials from Rural Management & Development Department and District Administrative Centre [East] along with the contractor arriving at his doorsteps to enquire after the loss caused to his property by the ongoing construction of a PMGSY road above his house. [click here and here for background details]
It was on 15 February that Mr. Rai, an MDR TB patient, had written to the area MLA, Menlom Lepcha, requesting an enquiry into the damages caused to his property by the construction of a PMGSY road from Ranka Rai Gaon to Rey Khola. The same day, the area MLA forwarded the letter to the District Collectorate [East] with directions for immediate action. Acting immediately, the SDM [Gangtok], Dr. AB Karki, served a notice to the Chief Engineer, RMDD directing him to submit detailed enquiry report within 10 days.
Instigating Disaffection
A contractor undertaking a rural development work, when confronted by an agitated set of villagers protesting the destruction of three homes by irresponsible road-cutting works recently, enquired, “Who is instigating you?” Not how badly the homes had been impacted or how severely the families affected, but who was inciting the people into speaking out! This attitude, as common among government servants as those earning from ‘development’, underlines the disconnect between policy-framing and delivery in Sikkim. Admittedly, this pernicious demeanour is not unique to Sikkim, but its universality should not be a reason to allow it to pervade.
Friday, March 11, 2011
22nd Road Safety Week observed in Mangan
MANGAN, 11 March: The Transport Department of Mangan, North District organized the 22nd Road Safety Week at Mangan on 07 March. The programme started with a rally from BAC Mangan to the Community hall where a welcome address was delivered by Regional Transport Officer (N), KS Gurung.
Senior Superintendent of Police (N) BK Tamang in his address shared information on road safety and the recently formed Road Safety Committee, North District which has District Magistrate (N) as the Chairman. Road accidents have been a major cause of deaths in the area and from 2009 - 2011 a total of 47 accidents occurred in the North district with 21deaths, 19 grievously injured and 70 with minor injuries, Mr Tamang informed. Most accident cases have been due to alcoholism and negligence, he added further suggesting that BRO and Power Project developers staff should also be invited for such programmes.
PI Traffic Gangtok, Arjun Chettri, highlighted on traffic rules and regulations 1989 and 1999 for road safety. In 2010 a total of189 motor accidents were recorded in the state in which 71% victims lost their lives out of which 83 were male and 69 female, he informed.
The ADC (N), S Targain said that drivers are 'Ambassadors of Wheel' and that everyday should be observed as Road Safety Day.
Chairman, Transport Department, TW Lepcha, present as the chief guest, in his address suggested to the Transport Department Officers to organize awareness programmes in coordination with the Road Safety Committee. Road accidents not only affect an individual but also the family of the injured or the dead, he said. It has also been observed that it is mostly the VIP's and Police Department vehicles that break traffic rules which need to be corrected along with a change in the mental attitude of those concerned.
Mr Lepcha also suggested that during the tourist season vehicle checking should be given relief as it is a hassle for tourists. Proper information with regard to the new tax system should be provided to drivers and vehicle owners by the department, he added. He also urged dropout students of Class VIII, X and XII to meet the area MLA for tourist guide, hotel management etc. training which is scheduled to begin from April this year.
MO, District hospital in her address, focused on the role of factors like human error and weather as causing accidents.
At the end, Prem Tamang (NDTDA), Dawzang Lachungpa (Mainline Taxi), Karma Gyatso Bhutia (Government Vehicle) and Chola Lachenpa (NDLTDA) were felicitated with certificates for Best Drivers of the year. The vote of thanks was delivered by Motor Vehicle Inspector, Krishna Lamichaney.
The programme was also attended by Zilla Adhyaksha (N), Khamsoom Lepcha, BDO Mangan, ST Tamang, MNP Councilors, KJ Bhutia and PK Malu, members of North Sikkim Local Taxi Driver’s Association, North Sikkim Tata Driver Association, North Sikkim Government Driver’s Association, students of MSSS, NSA, Singhik SS, Pakshep and Rangrang JHS, Panchayats and drivers.
Senior Superintendent of Police (N) BK Tamang in his address shared information on road safety and the recently formed Road Safety Committee, North District which has District Magistrate (N) as the Chairman. Road accidents have been a major cause of deaths in the area and from 2009 - 2011 a total of 47 accidents occurred in the North district with 21deaths, 19 grievously injured and 70 with minor injuries, Mr Tamang informed. Most accident cases have been due to alcoholism and negligence, he added further suggesting that BRO and Power Project developers staff should also be invited for such programmes.
PI Traffic Gangtok, Arjun Chettri, highlighted on traffic rules and regulations 1989 and 1999 for road safety. In 2010 a total of189 motor accidents were recorded in the state in which 71% victims lost their lives out of which 83 were male and 69 female, he informed.
The ADC (N), S Targain said that drivers are 'Ambassadors of Wheel' and that everyday should be observed as Road Safety Day.
Chairman, Transport Department, TW Lepcha, present as the chief guest, in his address suggested to the Transport Department Officers to organize awareness programmes in coordination with the Road Safety Committee. Road accidents not only affect an individual but also the family of the injured or the dead, he said. It has also been observed that it is mostly the VIP's and Police Department vehicles that break traffic rules which need to be corrected along with a change in the mental attitude of those concerned.
Mr Lepcha also suggested that during the tourist season vehicle checking should be given relief as it is a hassle for tourists. Proper information with regard to the new tax system should be provided to drivers and vehicle owners by the department, he added. He also urged dropout students of Class VIII, X and XII to meet the area MLA for tourist guide, hotel management etc. training which is scheduled to begin from April this year.
MO, District hospital in her address, focused on the role of factors like human error and weather as causing accidents.
At the end, Prem Tamang (NDTDA), Dawzang Lachungpa (Mainline Taxi), Karma Gyatso Bhutia (Government Vehicle) and Chola Lachenpa (NDLTDA) were felicitated with certificates for Best Drivers of the year. The vote of thanks was delivered by Motor Vehicle Inspector, Krishna Lamichaney.
The programme was also attended by Zilla Adhyaksha (N), Khamsoom Lepcha, BDO Mangan, ST Tamang, MNP Councilors, KJ Bhutia and PK Malu, members of North Sikkim Local Taxi Driver’s Association, North Sikkim Tata Driver Association, North Sikkim Government Driver’s Association, students of MSSS, NSA, Singhik SS, Pakshep and Rangrang JHS, Panchayats and drivers.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Sirwani, East Sikkim gets free medical camp and scholarship to students on International Women's Day
MANGAN, 10 March: Around 250 people benefited from a free medical camp organized for women, children and the physically challenged at Sirwani Secondary School, East Sikkim on 08 March by Lanco Foundation, Lanco Teesta Power Project under their Corporate Social Responsibility [CSR] activity.
On the day, around 52 students from different schools of the project affected area were given scholarships by Lanco. Project Director, BK Ojha while speaking to NOW! said that Lanco is not only working for the power project but also for the development of the society through its community services. He also informed that the affected local people are benefitting from services like the medical camp and scholarship to students which they plan to provide to at least 90 students this year.
Around 25 physically challenged patients were also treated at the camp and free medicine was distributed as per the doctor’s prescription.
The camp was inaugurated by Dr. HK Chettri, while Gynaecologist Dr. Kranti Chettri, Dr. Indu Rawat, Dr. Biva Joshi, other medical staff, General Manager, SK Sarkar, paramedical team, officials from Lanco and the general public were also present.
On the day, around 52 students from different schools of the project affected area were given scholarships by Lanco. Project Director, BK Ojha while speaking to NOW! said that Lanco is not only working for the power project but also for the development of the society through its community services. He also informed that the affected local people are benefitting from services like the medical camp and scholarship to students which they plan to provide to at least 90 students this year.
Around 25 physically challenged patients were also treated at the camp and free medicine was distributed as per the doctor’s prescription.
The camp was inaugurated by Dr. HK Chettri, while Gynaecologist Dr. Kranti Chettri, Dr. Indu Rawat, Dr. Biva Joshi, other medical staff, General Manager, SK Sarkar, paramedical team, officials from Lanco and the general public were also present.
ASDLF issues 'final notice' to industrial units in the state
GANGTOK, 09 March: Sikkim Democratic Labour Front has issued a ‘final notice’ with regard to the 21-point charter of demands to various industrial units in the state in favour of the local employees and labourers.
Copies of the final notice have also been submitted to the Chief Minister, who is also the ASDLF president, concerned administrative units and party units.
An SDF press release informs that upon completion of the one month ultimatum given to the companies to work on the various demands, the labour front has now served the notice to draw attention to the demands to fulfill at the earliest.
Copies of the final notice have also been submitted to the Chief Minister, who is also the ASDLF president, concerned administrative units and party units.
An SDF press release informs that upon completion of the one month ultimatum given to the companies to work on the various demands, the labour front has now served the notice to draw attention to the demands to fulfill at the earliest.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Cheli Morcha celebrates International Women's Day
GANGTOK, 09 March: International Women’s Day was celebrated in a grand manner by the Cheli Morcha of the Sikkim Democratic Front yesterday at SDF Bhawan.
The celebration was chaired by the vice-president of grievances cell of the party, Kalawati Subba and was attended by senior lady members of the party from all over the state.
Ms Subba mentioned that the SDF party has provided security and protection to the rights and interest of women to empower them more substantially.
The function was also addressed by other senior Cheli Morcha members.
The celebration was chaired by the vice-president of grievances cell of the party, Kalawati Subba and was attended by senior lady members of the party from all over the state.
Ms Subba mentioned that the SDF party has provided security and protection to the rights and interest of women to empower them more substantially.
The function was also addressed by other senior Cheli Morcha members.
SPCC demands withdrawal of notification imposing supervision charges for transportation of FCI food-grains
GANGTOK, 09 March: Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee has demanded the immediate withdrawal of a recent Transport Department notification imposing supervision charges for transportation of FCI food-grains from Siliguri to FCI food depots at Rangpo and Jorethang.The notification reportedly issued on 04 March, imposes supervision charge at the rate of Rs 0.50 per MT/KM for transportation of FCI food grains from Siliguri to Rangpo and Jorethang FCI depots. An SPCC press release issued by its spokesperson, Kunga Nima Lepcha alleges that the notification is anti-people as it has directly taxed the common people, especially BPL families, and the department should “stop causing unnecessary financial burden on the poor people of Sikkim”.The party has also maintained that the state was already getting more than sufficient budgetary allocation to meet its requirement and the people are already burdened by inflation. The release adds that the food grains lifted from FCI godowns to the FCI depots in the state are PDS items to distribute to the people under various schemes.It further alleged that the Transport Department cannot justify its action on imposing such supervision charges even on the private trucks as “no supervision whatsoever is rendered for transport from Siliguri to Sikkim”.
86th Rajbhasa Hindi Karyashala stresses on the use of Hindi at work
SAGAR CHETTRI
GANGTOK, 08 March: The 86th Rajbhasa Hindi Karyashala for the employees of Central Board of Workers Education, Ministry of Labour and Employment, was inaugurated by Assistant Professor, Sikkim University, Dr Rajendra Prasad today here at CPWD seminar hall.
Thirty participants from different parts of the country have taken part in the seminar organized by the Regional Directorate of CBWE, Siliguri, which will conclude on 11 March. The objective of the seminar was to enlighten the employees about the importance of the use of Hindi language in day to day official work.
In his inaugural address, Dr Prasad stressed that there should be constant efforts to encourage people to use Hindi in all official work. He also mentioned that language is an important factor for the development of a society.
Guest of honour, Assistant Registrar, Sikkim University, Tripurari Saran Sinha, mentioned that the university is also trying to use Hindi in its official work further stressing the need for positive and constant steps to do so.
Assistant Director [Official Language], CBWE, Nagpur, Ramesh Babu, informed that even the central government is encouraging the use of Hindi in offices by providing incentives and other facilities to the employees.
The inaugural session was also addressed by Regional Director, KK Sharma, and Senior Education Officer, AK Chakraborty, from CBWE, Siliguri.
GANGTOK, 08 March: The 86th Rajbhasa Hindi Karyashala for the employees of Central Board of Workers Education, Ministry of Labour and Employment, was inaugurated by Assistant Professor, Sikkim University, Dr Rajendra Prasad today here at CPWD seminar hall.
Thirty participants from different parts of the country have taken part in the seminar organized by the Regional Directorate of CBWE, Siliguri, which will conclude on 11 March. The objective of the seminar was to enlighten the employees about the importance of the use of Hindi language in day to day official work.
In his inaugural address, Dr Prasad stressed that there should be constant efforts to encourage people to use Hindi in all official work. He also mentioned that language is an important factor for the development of a society.
Guest of honour, Assistant Registrar, Sikkim University, Tripurari Saran Sinha, mentioned that the university is also trying to use Hindi in its official work further stressing the need for positive and constant steps to do so.
Assistant Director [Official Language], CBWE, Nagpur, Ramesh Babu, informed that even the central government is encouraging the use of Hindi in offices by providing incentives and other facilities to the employees.
The inaugural session was also addressed by Regional Director, KK Sharma, and Senior Education Officer, AK Chakraborty, from CBWE, Siliguri.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Export Awareness Workshop to discuss export prospects for Sikkim held
AMEET OBEROI
GANGTOK, 08 March: The Federation of Indian Export Organisations [FIEO], Eastern Region organised an Export Awareness Workshop [Scope and opportunities from North Eastern States of India] at Chintan Bhawan, today. The workshop was sponsored by Ministry of Commerce, Government of India in association with Department of Commerce & Industries, Government of Sikkim, Office of the Zonal Joint Director General of Foreign Trade, Kolkata, Export Credit Guarantee Corporation, Exim Bank of India and Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority [APEDA].
Speaking as the chief guest, Minister for Commerce & Industries Department,Neeru Sewa,while welcoming the delegates stated that there was need for such a workshop to be held in the state. Sikkim has been declared an agri-export zone by the Government of India and is well known for its ginger, cherry pepper [Dalle], large cardamom, orchids and medicinal herbs, which can be exported, she said.
On the other hand, the handloom and handicrafts [Thanka paintings, carpets] of Sikkim are world famous and are in much demand, but need proper looking into so that they too can be made exportable items from the state, she added.
Under the able leadership of the Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling red carpet welcome is being accorded to investors, whereby many Pharma Companies have come to the state and opened shop here. Promotion of agriculture, horticulture and floriculture is also being emphasized as Sikkim is rich in flora and fauna, she said. The state has earned Rs. 3000 Crores through investments and more than 6500 local people have been absorbed into these companies.
The future road map for the state was also being worked upon by the government, while capacity building programmes on different aspects for the youth are being held in all the four districts of the state. Meanwhile, specific programmes are being given to the youth at the State Institute of Capacity Building [SICB], she further added.
In the end, she also requested the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India to look into the list of items for export through the Nathula Trade as most of the items were either obsolete or were not wanted by the traders and thus revenue was being lost by the government. This she added could be done on priority basis.
A policy session and a technical session was also held in the afternoon which was addressed by various resource persons attending the workshop.
Along with the Minister also present on the dais were MG Kiran [Secretary, Commerce & Industries Department, Government of Sikkim], GP Upadhyaya [Secretary General, FIEO], Ram Lakhan [Under Secretary, Department of Commerce, Government of India], P Halder [Zonal Joint Director General of Foreign Trade, Kolkata], TV Rao [Director, Eximus Centre, Exim Bank], B Baruah [AGM & Regional Manager, APEDA] and Tapasi De [DGM & Regional Manager, ECGC].
Sikkim Chess Association assured of affiliation to AICF by April this year
SAGAR CHETTRI
GANGTOK, 07 March: A high-level delegation of the All India Chess Federation [AICF] gets impressed with activities taken up by Sikkim Chess Association [SCA] in short span of its formation.
AICF has announced to provide its affiliation as well as other supports to the SCA for the further development of the association and the chess in the state.
The delegation, which arrived yesterday, has the general secretary AICF, DV Sundar, who is also the vice-president of FIDE, and treasurer AICF, Bharat Singh Chauhan, who is also the president of Commonwealth Chess Association.
The delegation members had an interaction with the members of the SCA yesterday evening at Circuit House.
Responding to the request of the SCA for the affiliation, Mr Sundar announced to provide the affiliation to the association in the next meeting of the federation by April this year.
He also announced to send the senior players of the country and coaches to the state to train the local children on the expenses of the federation and also to provide all possible help for the development of chess in the state.
He informed that the federation has been keeping its eyes on the SCA since last year and it was found the state has been doing very well for the promotion of chess through different activities even in its infant stage.
Mr Sundar suggested the association members to work with more dedication and consistency in the state and to send the state teams to every national tournament.
Likewise, Mr Chauhan suggested the association to concentrate more on the young players in order to produce master and international players from the state in the future.
He also informed that in chess referees, coaches and players are equally necessary and the federation would organize seminars and trainings in all three fields in the state.
He also pointed out an international arbiter, Mahendra Dhakal, from Sikkim as a positive sign and advantage for the state whose knowledge can be used for the development of the game.
Mr Chauhan suggested the association to promote chess at the school level to encourage students interested in the game.
President SCA, HS Sharma informed that some like minded people in the state started the association on 24 July 2008 and during in its early stage it has already conducted seven tournaments.
He also informed that the association has also been providing technical support to various organizations in conducting chess competitions in the state.
Mr Sharma stated that being in its infant stage the SCA needs constant support from all concerned for its further development.
The meeting was also addressed by the Advisor SCA, KT Kafley.
GANGTOK, 07 March: A high-level delegation of the All India Chess Federation [AICF] gets impressed with activities taken up by Sikkim Chess Association [SCA] in short span of its formation.
AICF has announced to provide its affiliation as well as other supports to the SCA for the further development of the association and the chess in the state.
The delegation, which arrived yesterday, has the general secretary AICF, DV Sundar, who is also the vice-president of FIDE, and treasurer AICF, Bharat Singh Chauhan, who is also the president of Commonwealth Chess Association.
The delegation members had an interaction with the members of the SCA yesterday evening at Circuit House.
Responding to the request of the SCA for the affiliation, Mr Sundar announced to provide the affiliation to the association in the next meeting of the federation by April this year.
He also announced to send the senior players of the country and coaches to the state to train the local children on the expenses of the federation and also to provide all possible help for the development of chess in the state.
He informed that the federation has been keeping its eyes on the SCA since last year and it was found the state has been doing very well for the promotion of chess through different activities even in its infant stage.
Mr Sundar suggested the association members to work with more dedication and consistency in the state and to send the state teams to every national tournament.
Likewise, Mr Chauhan suggested the association to concentrate more on the young players in order to produce master and international players from the state in the future.
He also informed that in chess referees, coaches and players are equally necessary and the federation would organize seminars and trainings in all three fields in the state.
He also pointed out an international arbiter, Mahendra Dhakal, from Sikkim as a positive sign and advantage for the state whose knowledge can be used for the development of the game.
Mr Chauhan suggested the association to promote chess at the school level to encourage students interested in the game.
President SCA, HS Sharma informed that some like minded people in the state started the association on 24 July 2008 and during in its early stage it has already conducted seven tournaments.
He also informed that the association has also been providing technical support to various organizations in conducting chess competitions in the state.
Mr Sharma stated that being in its infant stage the SCA needs constant support from all concerned for its further development.
The meeting was also addressed by the Advisor SCA, KT Kafley.
Monday, March 7, 2011
SPCC mourns the death of veteran Congress leader Arjun Singh
GANGTOK, 07 March: Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee [SPCC], President, NB Bhandari, in a condolence meeting held on 05 March to mourn the recent demise of veteran Congress leader, Arjun Singh, described the late leader as, "a committed veteran Congress leader whose contributions in taking the Congress party to great heights cannot be forgotten", informs a SPCC press release.
Born in 1930 in Madhya Pradesh, Singh was the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh for three times, was appointed Governor of Punjab during a difficult time, was the Union Minister for Human Resources Development from 1991 to 1994 and again from 2004 to 2009.
Mr Bhandari offered condolence to the bereaved family of the late leader on behalf of the entire Sikkim Pradesh Congress, informs the release.
The meeting, held at the party head office at Jeewan Theeng Marg, Development Area, was presided over by Mr Bhandari and attended by members of PCC, DCCs and Frontal organisations.
According to another press release, in an emergency meeting of the party held on 06 March it was resolved to defer the proposed Dandi March scheduled to be held on 13 March to a future date due to some legal complications.
Muncipal Officer calls for proper garbage disposal
GANGTOK, 07 March: The Chief Municipal Officer, Gangtok, in a press release, has appealed to the local public to deposit garbage in the designated vehicles directly.
It is known to all individuals and business organizations that all garbage [Municipal Solid Waste] is to be deposited in the garbage vehicles directly. Inspite of this, it has been found that garbage is being dumped at road sides and jhoras, informs the release.
The Gangtok Municipal Corporation which has been entrusted with keeping the city clean views this as a serious problem. Anyone found disposing garbage on the road side or jhoras will be penalized on the spot as per the existing rules, the release further informs.
It is known to all individuals and business organizations that all garbage [Municipal Solid Waste] is to be deposited in the garbage vehicles directly. Inspite of this, it has been found that garbage is being dumped at road sides and jhoras, informs the release.
The Gangtok Municipal Corporation which has been entrusted with keeping the city clean views this as a serious problem. Anyone found disposing garbage on the road side or jhoras will be penalized on the spot as per the existing rules, the release further informs.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
'Painters of Kanchenjunga' come to town
GANGTOK, 06 March: An exhibition of works by the 'Painters of Kanchenjunga', Nicholas Roerich and Svetoslav Roerich opened to the public on Saturday evening at the First Floor, Rachna Books.
Nicholas Konstantinovich Roerich was a Russian artist, writer, philosopher with a love for travelling, who, during the 1920s, initiated a treaty for the protection of cultural product and activity of the world, both during war and peace known as the Roerich Pact. The Roerich family first came to Darjeeling in 1923 when it was still a part of Sikkim. They travelled around West Sikkim, visiting old monasteries of Pemayangste, Sangachoeling and Tashiding. Nicholas, besotted and inspired by the beauty of the Kanchenjunga, painted three series of canvas between 1924 and 1925. Out of the 7000 paintings by the artist, 4000 have the Himalayas as their subject.
Svetoslav Roerich, the youngest son of Nicholas and Helena Roerich, joined his family in Sikkim in 1928. An architect, painter, botanist, he was also recognised as a fine portraitist and landscape painter. He founded the International Roerich Memorial Trust in Bangalore and the College of Fine Arts, Bangalore University. Around four of his paintings are on display at the exhibition.
The family continued their travels through Central Asia, returning to India on and off. Nicholas Roerich died in Kullu in 1947 and in 1949, Helena and George Roerich, the eldest son, settled down in Crookety House in Kalimpong. Helena died in October 1955 and was cremated on Durpin Dara hill.
In 1928 the family established the Urusvati Himalayan Research Institute in the Kullu valley, Himachal Pradesh.
The exhibition which is hosted by Darjeeling Goodwill Centre will be on till 18 March. Post cards of the paintings, posters, and books are also on sale at the exhibition. Speaking to media persons at the exhibition yesterday, Fiorenza, informed that, a museum is being set up at the Crookety House, Kalimpong in collaboration with the Darjeeling Goodwill Centre, of which she is the Co-ordinator.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
WHAT’S IN A NAME: The confusion requiring Subbas to start writing their surnames as Limboo
SUBASH RAI
GANGTOK, 05 March: The Yakthung Sapshok Songjumbo [Sikkim Limboo Literary Society] has often reiterated its appeal to members of the Limboo community to specify ‘Limboo’ as their surnames to the enumerators who call on them in connection with the ongoing Census 2011 operations. A majority of the community in the State uses ‘Subba’ as their surname and although the YSS has suggested that they write Limboo and add “Subba” in brackets, the Society’s president, SP Subba, adds that “Subba is just a title” and highlights that in the Government of India notification, only Limboo has been notified as a Scheduled Tribe. Writing Subba, he believes, could complicate matters, especially when it comes to calculating the number of “Limboos” in the State.
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