![]() |
|||
|
RAILWAY BUDGET 2009-10 Gangtok, July 3: Ten rail projects in the North-East region have been declared as national projects. These include Bogibeel rail cum road bridge and gauge conversion of Lumding-Silchar-Jiribam, Rangia-Murkongselek. To ensure strict adherence to time schedules for completion on these projects, senior officers are being entrusted with their close monitoring. CM holds coordination meeting with various State Government Departments; Gangtok, July 3: The Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling in a series of marathon coordination meeting held in his Chamber, at Tashiling Secretariate on Thursday, met with the Ministers, Secretaries and officers of Rural Management and Development Department (RMDD), PHE, Commerce and Industries and IPR department. The main objective behind organizing such meetings was to channelize and sharpen the present mode of administration to create an atmosphere of effective work trends in the Departments and to review the position of various Departments. Directing the Departmental heads, the Chief Minister emphasized on the timely completion of different projects. He called for the greater participation of the Government employees as well as the general public in every developmental programme of the Government. He stressed on team spirit and close coordination between various departments for implementation of different policies and programmes of the government. He directed the departments to facilitate various skill development and specialization training programmes to the employees on related subject and asked the Departments to submit the list of employees who could be sent for these trainings. He also directed the departments to utilize government expenditure for the correct programmes which would benefit the people and the state. He stressed on quality work and warned against duplicity. The Chief Minister interacting with Rural Management and Development Department said that the work of NREGA in Sikkim is appreciated by other states and more effort is required for implementing the programme further. He said that involvement of rural people is necessary to achieve the goal of rural employment to increase their purchasing power and bring improvement in their standard of living. He advised the department on changing the mindset of the people by conducting awareness programmes and highlighting the facilities. The Chief Minister directed the department to engage the people through NREGA towards plantation of Magnolia plant in all barren land and private holdings. He made a decision on plantation of fifteen thousand Magnolia plant available at Yangang, in all suitable locations. He also stressed on plantation of different plants like Bamboo, fodder plant, trees, Banana, Papaya, Jackfruit, Bale, Cheery, Amla, Totala, Timbur, Harra, Tea etc. The Chief Minister emphasized on the construction of nature footpaths with materials like stone, wood and mud rather than concrete which could conserve the natural beauty of the villages and will boost village tourism as well. He proposed to develop parks and garden and community centers in the villages for which he directed the department to acquire land for the purpose. The Chief Minister also emphasized on providing clean and quality drinking water to the people of Sikkim for which he assured to provide funds, for establishment of water purification system, chemical testing center, expertise and technician etc. He directed the department to manage man power and provide training for Rural Development Assistants, Panchayats and other technical staffs to strengthen the Block Administrative Centres. He further directed to finalize a plan called ‘Village Development Action Plan' to be implemented within August. In his meeting with Public Health Engineering Department, the Chief Minister said that the department should adopt latest technology for water supply and sewerage system. He stressed on hygiene, security fencing, quality equipment and maintenance of pipeline. During the meeting with the Commerce and Industries and Information and Public Relations Departments, the Chief Minister discussed the management and distribution of Sikkim Herald, uploading website and press releases with the IPR officials. He said that IPR is the mouth piece of the Government and the link between the Government and the public. He also assured to construct Soochana Bhawan. The Chief Minister directed the Industries Department to establish an outlet of the Directorate of Handicraft and Handloom one for South and West district and another for North district. The Chief Minister, Mr. Pawan Chamling while continuing his meeting on July 3rd with the Ministers, HoDs and officials of various State Government departments, namely Food and Civil Supply, Science and Technology, Sports and Youth Affairs and Excise, also discussed important issues pertaining to the respective departments and issued various directions related to the developmental works in the State. During the meeting with the Food and Civil Supply Department, the Chief Minister said that there has to be an integrated approach in the developmental process involving all section. Sikkim has the most liberal investment policy and is an investor friendly state. He further added that the department should check the influx population which tends to increase with developmental processes. He further directed the departments to furnish the exact data's on influx population and also stressed the need to have accurate BPL data of the State as well. The Chief Minister also reviewed the stock of essential commodities to meet the requirements during monsoon and also emphasized the officials of the department for effective distribution of essential commodities. He also enquired about the storing capacity of the existing food go-downs, fuels and LPG and directed the department to maintained stocks to last for at least three months. He also asked the department to put forward the proposals regarding the renovation of the existing food go-downs and also to prepare a comprehensive report on the shortfalls of essential commodities like rice, kerosene, petrol, LPG, sugar etc. There should be no compromise on quality and no pilferation should take place, he added. In his another meeting with the Science and Technology Department, the Chief Minister stressed on the need to protect flora and fauna at the local level. On environment front, the challenge is formidable and enormous, but in terms of nature conservation measure, the State government has worked tirelessly to harmonize nature and development, he commented. The department should make an effort to involve local youths and students in the nature conservation programmes and generate scientific temperament in them to make Sikkim an example for the rest of the world. “Think globally and act locally”, said the Chief Minister. He also asked the department to prepare a guide book on Clean Mechanism Drive. During the meeting with the Minister and officials of Sports and Youth Affairs Department, the Chief Minister instructed that the youths being the future of the nation, the Department should focus on engaging the youths into constructive activities, so that they become able citizen in future. He also emphasized on development of various sports like archery, football, table tennis, taekwondo, boxing etc. He also stressed on renovating and development of the existing sports infrastructure in the State. He further directed the department to give more emphasis on archery and encouraged them to impart training to the students and youths. Further more, he also directed the department to forward the proposal of setting up of an archery training centers in the State. The Chief Minister said that the talent hunt programmes should be started from the School level for which he also instructed the department to provide necessary trainings and coaching at the schools and Panchayat level. Later in the afternoon, the Chief Minister also met the Minister and officials of the Excise Department and stressed on close coordination among the various departments in executing plans and programmes of the State Government. He said that the Rule of Law is paramount in the State and it should be maintained. He also advised the department to review the Bar license and also put forward the proposal to introduced new brands made of ginger, passion fruit, cardamom etc. and asked them to look into whether the proposal is technically viable or not. Three Chinese intruders nabbed in North Sikkim Gangtok, July 2: Three Chinese intruders have been nabbed by the army in North Sikkim district. According to official sources, army personnels caught the three foreign nationals from Katau area in north district near Lachung on June 27 as soon as they entered into the Indian Territory from across the border and seized mobile phones among other materials from their possession. The army later handed over the custody of the infiltrators to the district police authorities. During interrogation the intruders revealed that they are the natives of Gyalinghka area of China, Tibet Autonomous Region, the sources said, adding that all of them are from the same family. Chamling to get an international award for public service Gangtok, July 2: Already basking in the glory of a record fourth-term mandate in the Assembly polls, Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Chamling has being selected for an international award for leadership and good governance. He would be presented a gold medal and citation by Universal Peace Foundation (UPF), an international NGO, in recognition of his distinguished public service spanning about 25 years, an official release said on Thursday. UPF-Asia regional president Dr Chung Sik Young would confer the award to the 59 year-old Chamling, at a function here on July 6. The NGO has felicitated a number of world leaders in the past for their services their contributions to public service, leadership and good governance. Sikkim declares 2010 as Year of Tourism Gangtok, July 2: Having declared the year 2010 as the Year of Tourism, the Sikkim government has drawn up a plan incorporating as many as 13 local festivals in the list of popular events to be staged next year to woo tourists from across the country and abroad. Officials of the tourism department said that the celebration of the Year of Tourism will commence with the Sikkim Discover Festival to be held in March/April next year and conclude with the State Flower Show to be held at the state capital in March, 2011. In April 2010, a number of cultural events will be held at Rabong, Aritar and Temi-Tarku to delight the visitors. Apart from this, an international Rhododendron festival will be held at Shingba Lachung in North Sikkim and Varsey in West Sikkim during the first three weeks of May 2010. Also Hee-Bermoik Cultural Heritage Festival will be held in West Sikkim, they said. The events on the occasion of the World Environment Day to be held on June 5 next will be another attraction for the tourists, while in July the visitors may enjoy the monsoon and the plantation drive throughout the Himalayan state. The tourists will be encouraged to plant saplings at popular tourist destinations and participate at conferences, workshops, seminars and other activities to promote awareness for conservation of bio-diversity. A monsoon festival will be held on August five at Tharpu in West Sikkim showcasing the ethnic culture. In September, next year the tourism department has proposed to hold the World Tourism Day with eco-adventure, camping, village tourism and home stay activities. In October, two festivals Dasia festival and Namchi Mahotsava have been planned, while a number of conferences, workshops, seminars and meetings on tourism related themes will be held in November, 2010. In December, apart from the snowfall which usually takes places in various parts the state, the festivals like Music Festival at Mangan in North Sikkim, Khangchendzonga Festival at Pelling in West Sikkim and Gangtok Winter Festival will take place in which a large number of tourists may take part. The grand New Year Celebrations will be held throughout the state to bid good bye to the year 2010 in which the tourists are expected to take part in large numbers. The celebration of the Year of Tourism will also continue into the year 2011 with events like Maghey Sankranti Mela at Jorethang in January, Tourism festival at Yuksom in February and the State Florishow at White Hall complex in the state capital. The tourism authorities expect to draw 30 per cent more tourists next year over the usual inflow every year of five lakh, the officials said. Sikkim's first-ever journal on legal issues released Gangtok, June 30 (IST 6:43): Governor B P Singh on Monday released the first-ever newsletter on legal maters published by the State Legal Services Authority (SLSA) for dissemination of news and information related to judicial matters for the benefit of the members of the legal fraternity and the common people. Workshop on International Humanitarian Law and the reporting in times of violence from a conflict zone Gangtok, June 29 (IST 6:18): Two journalists of Sikkim will be participating in the media workshop in Guwahati organized by International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) on June 30 for the benefit of Northeast based working journalists. Press Club of Sikkim (PCS) general secretary Bhim Rawat and publicity secretary Bijoy Gurung will be participating in the daylong workshop. The ICRC has organized the workshop in support of Guwahati Press Club. The workshop will deal with the issues related to the International Humanitarian Law and also the reporting in times of violence from a conflict zone. The workshop, to be held in Guwahati, will be inaugurated by Kanak Sen Deka, a senior editor of Assam. Yahia Alibi, Deputy Head of the Delegation, ICRC will also attend the inaugural ceremony. Nearly 30 journalists from Sikkim, Tripura, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and also Bhutan will attend the workshop, which will be addressed by Stephanie Bouaziz & Surinder Oberoi, communication coordinator, ICRC with Tahaniyat Sidiq, ICRC and Nava Thakuria, Secretary, Guwahati Press Club. Chamling seeks investment in peaceful Sikkim Gangtok, June 28 (IST 22:20): Inauguration ceremony of Gangtok MayFair Spa & Resort brought Chief Minister Pawan Chamling and former Chief Minster Nar Bahadur Bhandari on a common public platform where they jointly unveil the launching ceremony of MayFair Spa & Resort. “Bhandari sahab has brought investors from Orissa to Sikkim and I want to thank him for this. The credit goes to him for this hotel”, Chamling said. It may be added here that the Gangtok MayFair Spa & Resort is spread over 25 acres of the property on lease from former Chief Minister Bhandari. Describing Sikkim as an abode of peace and tranquility, Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling has called upon the investors from across the country and abroad to set up eco-friendly industries and infrastructure in the hospitality sector in a big way. Sikkim possesses all the requirements like peaceful law and order situation and investment-friendly economic policies which the investors should capitalise on to set up new units which will not not only benefit them, but also the state in generating additional revenues on its own,he said. The state government, on its part, was committed to extend all cooperation to the prospective investors like speedy sanction of the proposed industrial units, Chamling said. Observing that the private sector has not been keen to come over to Sikkim to set up their units apparently due to locational disadvantage, he said that the communication and connectivity problem will soon be over as a number of projects like the greenfield airport at Pakyong, rail link upto Rangpo and an alternative highway have been lined up to meet the infrastructure requirements of the border state. Conceding that the private sector has got to play its role for economic development of the border state and strategically crucial one, Chamling said that without industrial development the state government on its own can not fulfill the aspirations of the people. Moments earlier, throwing personal political disparities to the left, both the former and present Chief Ministers displayed a extraordinary solidarity by jointly unveil the launching ceremony thereby officially making the MayFair Spa & Resort, Gangtok operational from today. Kingfisher Plane hits wall Siliguri, June 28 (IST 22:20): A Kingfisher Airlines flight with 184 people on board escaped a tragedy on Saturday, when its wing hit a wall built on a bunker, shortly before take-off for NewDelhi at Bagdogra airport here. The Airbus 320 was taxiing on the runway at 3 p.m. when its right wing hit the wall, an airlines spokesperson said. Bagdogra Airport Director K. K. Bhowmik said the wing was badly damaged, but there was no fuel leakage or any other untoward incident. According to spokesperson, the aircraft was executing a 180-degree turn to line up for take-off; the right wing tip touched the wall of a grass-camouflaged bunker in the proximity of the runway. The airline's flight safety department started an investigation. The flight was cancelled, and the passengers were told to disembark, authorities said. A separate flight was arranged. The airport was shut for an hour to free the runway, after which normal work resumed, Airport Director said. Government policies should implemented in time: Lepcha Gangtok, June 27 (IST 20:11): Sonam Gyatso Lepcha, Minister, Energy and Power and Culture Affairs and Heritage Department directed the officials to ensure that all the programmes and policies of the government to be implemented in time for the welfare of the people today. He also reviewed the progress and the functioning of the department specially various divisions like Archives, Museum, Archeology, Song and Drama Unit etc. It was also directed that emphasis to be laid on strict discipline, transparency, punctuality and team work to be maintained. Meeting was also attended by Secretary, D.R. Kharel, Special Secretary, P.N. Tamang and other officials of the department. First five-star deluxe hotel in the Northeast
Gangtok, June 27 (IST 7:10): The first five-star deluxe hotel in the Northeast “MAYFAIR Gangtok Spa Resort” is opening today at Ranipool in east Sikkim. This Rs 50 Crore resort will be operational after being inaugurated today by Chief Minister Pawan Chamling. Chief Minister's visions towards the systemization of total health care for the Sikkimese Gangtok, June 25 (IST 23:33): Moving towards the systemization of total health care for the Sikkimese people, the Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling has embarked on the mission to develop Sir Thuthop Namgyal Memorial Hospital (STNM), by providing all necessities of a complete 500 bedded Hospital which could serve the people. With this concept in mind, he visited the proposed site, acquired by the Department of Family Welfare at Sokethang, near ICAR complex, on 25th June 2009. While inspecting the location of the proposed land spread over nine acres, the Chief Minister, was apprised by the Secretary, HealthCare, Human Services and Family Welfare Department, V.P Pathak ,that the Land was already examined by the Mines and Geology Department of its stability and load bearing capacity which was mentioned in the DPR of the project. After viewing all the facts, the Chief Minister suggested all those concerned, to place their views about the land and location for setting up STNM Hospital at Sokethang. He also requested the people to participate in providing suggestion and share their views to make the project a successful one. The Chief Minister thereafter, walked from Convoy Ground NH 31A to Indira by-pass Road and surveyed the complex of Animal Husbandry Department which would be another alternate location for the establishment of the Hospital. Chamling directed the Chief Engineer Roads & Bridges for immediate carpeting of the road from Convoy Ground to the proposed Hospital site at Sokethang. The Chief Minister also directed Secretary UD&HD and D.C East to acquire all the vacant land in and around the Capital for the purpose of beautifying and giving a new look to the surrounding areas. He also directed that the road leading to the Deorali multiple storied Taxi stands be looked into especially rectification of the gradient. Mr. Chamling further directed the UD&HD Secretary to renovate the footpath leading from opposite the Forest Secretariate to Biralu Gate turning giving standard grading. He also directed to construct taxi stand for smaller vehicles at opposite site of the Forest Secretariate and a flyover at Five Ways, Deorali. He also suggested that road from Deorali to Metro Point, Gangtok be given a good name. The Chief Minister was accompanied by his cabinet Minister, Health and Family Welfare Department, D.N Takarpa, Minister, RMDD, C.B Karki, Minister, Building and Housing, Tilu Gurung and Minister UD& HD, D.B Thapa and other government officials. CS emphasized on the effective implementation of the Government policies Gangtok, June 26 (IST 23:33): A Coordination Meeting of all the Secretaries and Heads of Departments was held at the Conference Hall of the Tashiling Secretariate on 26th June, 2009. The Meeting was chaired by the Chief Secretary, N.D. Chingapa. This is the first Coordination Meeting being held after the formation of the new Government. Kapil Sibal : Government committed to Higher Education Reform New Delhi, June 25 (IST 6:13): The Government is committed towards improving the education system in the country. This was stated by Kapil Sibal, Union Minister for Human Resource Development today when Prof. Yashpal presented to him the final report of the Committee on ‘Renovation and Rejuvenation of Higher Education'(Prof. Yashpal Committee Report). The Minister underlined that a single day cannot be wasted towards enabling the right for children to be educated. This education must be inclusive and with quality he added. Sibal emphasized the three principles of access, equity and excellence which will not be compromised while implementing the educational reform agenda. Two year vocational training in printing technology completed Gangtok, June 24 (IST 22:32): Capacity building and skill development curriculum for the youth of Sikkim has been the flagship programme of the Chief Minister Pawan Chamling's government and Printing & Stationary department has given a new definition to it by imparting two year vocational training in Printing Technology to eleven (9 boys and 2 girls) educated unemployed youths of the state. They underwent for this vocational training in Sikkim Government Press here in the capital from February 2007. A valedictory function of this training programme was organized by the department at Sikkim Government Press where the Minister for Printing & Stationary, Commerce & Industries, Information & Public Relations and Excise Department Neeru Sewa gave away the certificates to the trainees. She informed that the department will further contemplate about some advance courses for them and the government will extend every possible help if they want to start something on their own in this field. A visibly happy Sewa was very impressed with the department who had gone for quality work rather than quantity in capacity building and skill development programme by providing comprehensive training to these youths. Woman loses eye in fight over loud party Gangtok, June 24 (IST 22:32): A housewife lost sight in her right eye in a fight with three teenage girls over a loud party in her house in Arithang locality of the Sikkim capital, police said Wednesday. An argument erupted between the accused and the victim, who reside in the same building in Arithang, when the housewife had some guests over in her apartment Tuesday evening. The teenage trio complained that the party was too loud and disturbing. The accused, police sources said, assaulted her with a knife and slashed her on the face. Her right eye got damaged in the brawl and lost vision, police said. SP Wangdi sworn in as Sikkim HC judge Gangtok, June 23 (IST 21:30): Former advocate general SP Wangdi was sworn in as a judge of the Sikkim High Court on Tuesday. Governor BP Singh administered oath of office to justice Wangdi as a function held at Ashirbad Bhawan in Raj Bhawan complex here. Chief minister Pawan Kumar Chamling and Sikkim chief justice AH Saikia attended the swearing in ceremony of the newly appointed judge. With the appointment of justice Wangdi, the strength of three judges bench of Sikkim High Court is complete. Recording the data properly helps the policy planner: Chattopadhya Gangtok, June 23 (IST 21:30): National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO), Government of India, Gangtok is to hold 66th Round for Survey of Household Consumer Expenditure and Employment and Unemployment from the first of next month. The Regional Training Round of the Field Operation, Gangtok was inaugurated by Gopa Chattapadhyay, Director, Data Processing Division, NSS, Kolkata at ICAR Complex. Addressing the inaugural session of the training Chattopadhya emphasized the importance of recording the data properly as this would help the policy planner. She informed that, this time the data for NREGA, Postal Department are also being undertaken. Director, NSSO, Gangtok D Mukhopadhya urged the trainees to take the training seriously. The training which will continue to 24th of this month is also being attended by State Government officials from Department of Economics Statistics Monitoring & Evaluation (DESM&E). The survey will be conducted by the field staff of NSSO and DESM&E continue till 30 June, 2010. Information from 96 samples out of which 76 in rural areas and 20 urban areas will be collected scientifically. The survey conducted by the NSSO are for the purpose of State/national planning and policy requirements as also for research purposes. As per data dissemination policy of the Government, it is assured that the information collected pertaining to an individual family or establishment will be kept confidential. Contractors and businessmen should not come to become a central executive member in the SDF party: Pawan Chamling Gangtok, June 22 (IST 19:50): Chief Minister Pawan Chamling has said party is altogether above the government.” MLA and ministers run the government, panchayats run the local government and party members should run party. There should not be any mix up. And remind it, party is above the government. If party directs me to kick out any minister, forthwith I will ground him,” Chief Minister Chamling speaking in Sampurna Kranti Diwas organized by SDF party at its headquarter, Indira By pass, said. Regarding the development of state, he said he is very keen for the development of the state and productivity of skilled manpower. “The students who after 10+2 do not get admission in any colleges of the state, they will be settled in various vocational courses in the state and all their school expenses will be borne by the government,” Besides, Chamling said the government would bear the expense of 10-topper students of class V from each district by providing admission in T.N.A and other renowned public schools of the state; the students who wish to join foreign universities the government would provide them zero interest loans. “I want to see that 100 per cent of our children should highly capable manpower,” he said. He told the government employees that the government has already enhanced their salary and now it is their turn to give their service to the people. He said the municipal election would be held in the last week of July or 1st week of August in the state. Chief Minister also announced number of projects of the government and its target to be completed. In every constituency there will be one exemplary work Hillary and Tenzing Sherpa memorial park and lake would be set up at Uttarey within one and half year; Cherinji statue (a god of Bhutia community) to be set up within three years in West Sikkim; super specialty hospital would be constructed within three years; all the small markets of the state would be renovated as mini M.G.Marg by installing water fountain and tiles in roads; all markets will have taxi stands; Ropeway connection and Sky tower will be at Bhaley Dhunga (South Sikkim) within three years; Lord Budha statue in Ravang and satellite township in the state. Chief Minister also said the budget of this financial year would be placed on 20th July. 3 G services to be launched in Sikkim by 15th of August: Pilot Gangtok, June 22 (IST 19:50): Union Minister of State for Communication & Information Technology Sachin Pilot has announced the launching of 3 G services by BSNL in Gangtok by 15th of August, 2009. The 3 G services would be extended to other three districts within 100 days. The Minister said, services would be improved to Sikkim as BSNL would increase its broadband strength to 30 GB PPS. All the 26 blocks in the State would be covered by broadband services within 100 days. Speaking in Gangtok, after holding a review meeting with BSNL, Postal Department and State I&T, the Minister said, traffic congestion in mobile services in 21 sectors of the State would be removed by 15th August, 2009 as BSNL will be improving the quality of service. The Minister added that Sikkim is an important state for Government of India hence special effort has been taken to improve the quality of services in North East with specific emphasis to Sikkim, through communication and information technology. It is a difficult terrain and the ministry would support the efforts to improve information and technology in Sikkim, as it would increase opportunities for the talented youth. The Minister arrived in Gangtok on a day long visit and will call on the Chief Minister of Sikkim Pawan Chamling this evening. Chamling seeks PM's intervention on Sikkim assembly seat quota Gangtok, June 22 (IST 19:50): Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Chamling has sought Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's intervention on the issue of assembly seat reservation for Limboo and Tamang communities and income tax exemption for old settlers. Chamling who met Singh in New Delhi yesterday requested him to clear the decks for reservation of assembly seats in favour of the two tribal communities through a Constitutional provision, official sources said. The Limboo and Tamang people have been restive over the delay in the reservation, Chamling was quoted as saying. The issue has been pending for the past six years. During his meeting with Singh, the chief minister also raised the matter of implementation of B K Roy Burman Commission report which recommended declaration of Sikkim as a tribal state and income tax exemption to left out 50,000 old settlers, the sources said. The families have been demanding income tax exemption on the same grounds of the exemption given to the indigenous people of the state having Sikkim Subject Certificate or Certificate of Identification of the state government. He also requested better connectivity of the state with the rest of the country through time-bound construction of alternative highways, rail and air links, besides smooth flow of traffic between Siliguri and Sikkim along NH 31A, the lone road link to the state. Singh assured him of cooperation, the sources said. Commerce & Industries Minister visited Sikkim Jewels Gangtok, June 22 (IST 19:50): The Minister for Commerce & Industries, Neeru Sewa visited the factory of Sikkim Jewels Ltd. on Saturday to see the overall functioning of the Unit. Chairman S.T Gyaltshen and the Managing Director Pawan Awasthy made the power point presentation highlighting the background of the Unit, business activities & prospects and the SWOT analysis of the Company. During the visit to the shop-floor, minister was thoroughly impressed with the precision work carried out by the employees. She was particularly impressed with the cleanliness and discipline maintained by the Unit and the capability to export the product to European countries. While lauding the efforts made by the M.D and his team, she assured of all possible help and assistance to the Unit particularly to tide over the present fund crisis due to global economic recession. Minister Sewa asked the M.D to pursue the matter regarding fund release for modernization of the Unit based on the agreement between the Govt. of Sikkim and the Swiss firm Ms. Amicot. First ever Marwari film in common Marwari language in global scenario made in 20 days. Gangtok, June 22 (IST 19:50): The makers of "Khoto Sikko", the first Marwari film to be made here highlighting the lives of the migrant Marwari community living in the state for generations, have made a record by completing the film in a record 20 days' time. According to director Rakesh Somani, the film went on the floors May 20 and was wrapped up June 10. It is scheduled for September release. "Hundred percent of the shooting is over. It was shot at various locations in the state and the last leg of the shooting was done in West Bengal. Shooting the film was an incredible experience," Somani told reporters here at a press conference on Sunday. Talking about the story, B.P. Bajgain, Assistant Director of the film, said: "We have provided an excellent story and many people will identify with it. The language, which we have used in the film, is the common form of Marwari which everyone understands. We have maintained a certain standard while making the film and we are sure it will be appreciated. The story is so engrossing that audiences will have a great time." Marwari boy Raunak Somani from Gangtok plays the male lead and Sonia Seikh, who is from Namchi in South Sikkim, is paired opposite him in the movie. "We enjoyed ourselves while shooting for the film. For many, the language was new but we were comfortable throughout. With this film, we want to make a name for ourselves", said Sonia. Raunak said: "The family atmosphere in the film was not created, it happened automatically on the sets. The energy level has been phenomenal and we were always encouraged... even when the going got tough, someone amongst the seniors rejuvenated us." Sikkim sets up UID authority Gangtok, June 21 (IST 6:50): As part of the efforts being made by the Government of India to create and maintain unique identification (UID) database for all the residents of the country, state government of Sikkim declared Food & Civil Supplies Department as Nodal Department for the function. Further the State Government is also pleased to appoint Special Secretary Food & Civil Supplies Department as Nodal Officer to coordinate activities related to Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). Generating and assigning Unique Identification Numbers for the entire resident population of the country is considered important for improving delivery of development and welfare schemes and also providing financial resources through banking and security perspective. Work on alternative highway in Sikkim to begin in six months Gangtok, June 21 (IST 6:50): The construction of an alternative highway in land-locked Sikkim is expected to begin within the next six months, the state government said today. Union Minister for Road, Transport and Highways Kamal Nath directed his officials yesterday to expeditiously start the ground work for construction of the alternative highway within the next six months, an official release said here. The directive was issued after Chief Minister Pawan Chamling urged Nath during a meeting in New Delhi to implement the sanctioned works for double laning of NH-31A and construction of the alternative highway. The alternative highway will help ease the Himalayan state's dependence on the existing lone highway. Sikkim Milk Union takes measures after reports of curdling Gangtok, June 21 (IST 6:50): As consumers complain of milk curdling in Gangtok due to packaging-related problems, the Sikkim Milk Union today said they have taken measures to control the problem. "We have installed 30 bulk cooling machines for preservation of milk at various locations in the districts, while deep freezers have been provided to 40 societies for chilling of milk collected from farmers in the evening," SMU Managing Director P Senthil Kumar said here. Sikkim Chief Minister calls on Minister of Rural Development Gangtok, June 20 (IST 8:00): Union Rural Development Minister, C.P. Joshi has assured support to Sikkim for the implementation of flagship programmes of the Government under the Ministry of Rural Development in the State. The State Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling called on the Minister and felicitated him. The two leaders discussed the progress of centrally sponsored Rural Development Schemes in the state specially the NREGA, Indira Awas Yojna, Rural Drinking Water Supply and Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. Chamling highlighted the efforts made by the state to implement the NREGA with its emphasis in the plantation sector and asked for generous support from the center. Dr. Joshi assured him of full cooperation from centre in respect of timely aid by the Ministry and said that the efforts should be made to strengthen the implementation of NREGA and other schemes for the benefit of rural population. Ministers inspected MG Marg and Kanchajunga shopping complex Gangtok, June 20 (IST 8:00): Urban Development and Housing Development minister D.B.Thapa, Human Resource Development Minister N.K.Pradhan and local MLA Dorjee Namgyal visited Lal Bazar and M.G.Marg along with the senior officers of UD&HD on Friday. Chamling for enhanced road connectivity in Sikkim Gangtok, June 19 (IST 22:55): With a lone highway connecting Sikkim to rest of the country, Chief Minister Pawan Chamling has asked the Centre to take measures to enhance road connectivity in the state in view of its strategic location. "Sikkim, which is surrounded by three countries - China, Bhutan and Nepal needs proper road networks to connect it with rest of the country. The Centre should take into account the strategic location of the state,"sources quoted him as saying to Defence Minister A K Antony in New Delhi yesterday. Chamling asked Antony to sensitise the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), an army unit in-charge of the road infrastructure in the border and strategically located states, to speed up implementation of the construction, maintenance and up-gradation of the road network under its jurisdiction in Sikkim. Antony, on his part, reportedly said the Centre was aware of the road infrastructure-related constraints in Sikkim and assured Chamling that support and assistance would be extended to it. Process for Suchna Bhawan at Gangtok has been initiated: Kiran Gangtok, June 19 (IST 22:55): The newly elected executive members of the Press Club of Sikkim (PCS) led by their president Parasmani Dangal today called upon the Information and Public Relations (IPR) department secretary MG Kiran at his chamber. During the fruitful interaction, the IPR secretary assured full cooperation and support from the State government and his department for the collective development of the media fraternity in Sikkim. We are always ready to extend support to the PCS and media fraternity in Sikkim, he said. Secretary Kiran also congratulated and extended his good wishes to the new executive body of PCS. The PCS president Parasmani Dangal introduced his executive body members to the IPR secretary. During the meeting, the PCS executive body highlighted the need for a permanent infrastructure for the PCS. Regarding this, the IPR secretary informed that process for Suchna Bhawan has been initiated and assured that the PCS will be accommodated in the proposed Bhawan. He also urged the PCS body to nominate its members for the accreditation committee at the earliest. On the points raised regarding advertisement rates, Mr. Kiran responded positively to the suggestions of the PCS and said that he will take up the matter with the State government. He also said that the department will also seriously study on the advertisement policy of the State government for the local media here. The secretary also requested the PCS executive body to place their demands before the concerned minister. He also assured the participation of the IPR department in the activities of the PCS. Personality Development workshop at Sikkim University Gangtok, June 19 (IST 22:55): A Summer workshop on Personality Development started at Sikkim University from the 11th June, 2009. This month long workshop has been organized in collaboration with the National School of Drama, New Delhi. The participants to the workshop are students from the affiliated colleges of Sikkim University and the post graduate students of Sikkim University. The objective of the workshop is to develop the overall personality of the students. Ms. Purnima Kharga, an eminent theatre personality from Mumbai is conducting the workshop. A renowned kathak dancer, she has performed worldwide and has also conducted such workshops in Japan and Europe among university students. This workshop forms part of the course of NSD popularly known as ‘Theater in Education.' Chamling seeks tribal status for Sikkim Gangtok, June 18 (IST 23:11): Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Chamling today sought implementation of Prof B K Roy Burman Commission report's recommendation to give Sikkim a tribal status during his meeting with senior leaders in New Delhi. He met a number of high profile leaders, including Vice-President Hamid Ansari and Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar, and sought resolution of long pending issues that included the reservation of assembly seats for the tribal communities of Limboo and Tamang and tribal staus for the state, an official release issued here said. Chamling also called on several Union ministers to put across various issues for the benefit of the state, it said. The Chief Minister is likely to spend some more days in the national capital and seek appointment with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress president Sonia Gandhi, official sources said. The prospects of BPO industry in the state are bright: Pradhan Gangtok, June 18 (IST 23:11): Humsay I Global Services Ltd (HIGSL) has set its foot in Sikkim thereby becoming the first Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) in North East India. N.K.Pradhan, Human Resource Development Minister, as a chief guest inaugurated the BPO on Wednesday at Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), adjacent to Sikkim Jewels. Young should come forward to keep pace with changing world: P D Rai Gangtok, June 18 (IST 23:11): P.D.Rai, lone Lok Sabha M.P from Sikkim addressing a press conference held immediately after the inauguration of a BPO centre at Tadong on Wednesday, said he was very hopeful that UPA would include one representative from Sikkim in its union council of minister. “I am 80 per cent sure that UPA would induct one representative from Sikkim in its council of minister,” Rai asserted.The MP also added the reason of his high hope of inducting one representative in union council of minister was Chief Minister had taken up the issue to UPA chairperson and prime minister that UPA should make a minister in centre by virtue of being SDF a UPA partner. Refuting the allegation that UPA has not taken SDF in its fold, he said, “There are rumours that SDF is not UPA partner. If that people want to know this, I will show them the certificate also,” he said. Regarding newly inaugurated BPO, he said he is just a felicitator. “I want the young should come forward to keep pace with changing world and I have just facilitated this opportunity to our local youths, “he said. He also said he would take up the issue in parliament to ensure Sikkim should be 100 per cent power connected so that BPO industries should not be suffered from any power outages that almost occur in the state when there are natural calamities. ACT to move SC for scrapping of hydel projects Gangtok, June 18 (IST 23:11): The Affected Citizens of Teesta (ACT), an apolitical organisation spearheading the agitation for scrapping of hydel projects in Sikkim, will move the Supreme Court for cancelling two hydel projects in North Sikkim. Urging the environment ministry to review a number of power projects cleared by Central Appraisal Committee (CAC), ACT Vice-President Tseten Lepcha told, his organisation would file a petition in the Apex Court for stopping work on two hydel projects in north Sikkim. The digging and construction activities in the&apossacred&aposmountains of Dzongu for construction of the power projects would hurt the religious sentiments of tribals, he said. The ACT had launched an indefinite agitation two years ago against 27 hydel projects, claiming that these projects would adversely affect the environment and ecology of the fragile mountainous state in the long term. Sikkim Chief Minister calls on Minister of Rural Development Gangtok, June 18 (IST 23:11): Union Rural Development Minister, Dr. C.P. Joshi has assured support to Sikkim for the implementation of flagship programmes of the Government under the Ministry of Rural Development in the State. The State Chief Minister, Shri Pawan Chamling called on the Minister and felicitated him. The two leaders discussed the progress of centrally sponsored Rural Development Schemes in the state specially the NREGA, Indira Awas Yojna, Rural Drinking Water Supply and Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. Mr. Chamling highlighted the efforts made by the state to implement the NREGA with its emphasis in the plantation sector and asked for generous support from the center. Dr. Joshi assured him of full cooperation from centre in respect of timely aid by the Ministry and said that the efforts should be made to strengthen the implementation of NREGA and other schemes for the benefit of rural population. Sikkim asks Centre to ensure smooth traffic on Sikkim highway Gangtok, June 17 (LN): Sikkim government has asked Centre to ensure uninterrupted traffic on its sole highway connecting the landlocked state with the rest of the country, fearing reports that Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) may soon call bandh in Darjeeling hills demanding separate statehood. The Himalayan state has been hit by the periodic spells of disturbances and bandhs on political issues in Darjeeling for the past several years resulting in blockade of the sole and arterial highway of the state, Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Chamling has said to union Home Minister P Chidambaram. The 92-km long National Highway 31-A connects Gangtok, capital of Sikkim, and Siliguri in Darjeeling district of West Bengal. "The Centre should look into ways and means to bring about an amicable and permanent solution so as to ensure uninterrupted flow of traffic between Siliguri and Sikkim via NH 31-A," Mr. Chamling told Chidambaram on Tuesday at New Delhi. The people of Sikkim had to suffer untold hardship for days together due to shortage of essential supplies even as the state's economy, particularly the tourism industry, had been hit hard, due to frequent blockades in the highway, the chief minister said. Mr. Chidambaram assured Mr. Chamling that the Centre would provide all assistance and support to the border state regarding issues related to the road connectivity, an official release said today. Project launched to catch feral dogs in Sikkim Gangtok, June 14 (IST 22:15): With dogs which once lived near army and paramilitary camps in Sikkim turning feral, attacking and killing wild animals, the forest department has launched a project to catch and sterilise them. Under the project, the Sikkim Anti-Rabies and Animal Health(SARAH) volunteers in national parks and reserved forests would catch the dogs and vaccinate them against rabies, officials said. A SARAH team has gone to forests in North Sikkim at Chungthang and will later visit Lachen, Lachung and other interior areas in North Sikkim, the officials said. The forest authorities are also contemplating use of chemically coated darts to immobilise the animals. Feral dogs have, in the past, killed and devoured endangered animals like red panda, musk deer, dhorals and also migratory birds. Investigations have revealed that the dogs had turned into killers after surviving on scraps and leftovers from the army camps. Forest officials said that the dogs, in the wild state, posed not only threat to animals, but could also transmit diseases like rabies.
From jobs to traveling, we don't have reservation: PCP, Nepal Gangtok, June 12 (LN): They can't walk; they can't stand but they have embarked on tour of South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation ( SAARC) countries on foot. An eleven physically challenged persons team from Nepal has come to Gangtok on Friday.
Gangtok, June 9 (LN): The Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling handed over a utility Vehicle to the Panchayat members of the Melli Dara, GPU in a small function held at Mintokgang on 9th June,2009. The Rural Management and Development Department had procured this Utility Vehicle with financial assistance provided by Indo Swiss Project Sikkim (ISPS) for the purpose of Solid Waste Management. This vehicle was handed over to the Melli-Dara-Paiyong GPU, South Sikkim for being one of the best performing GPUs in Sikkim as an added incentive. Since it is the first time any GPU is being conferred such a vehicle, the Chief Minister, congratulated the Sabhapati, Ganesh Kr. Rai and the members of the Melli-Dara GPU for their exemplary performance. He also stressed the need for more public involvement and generating mass awareness towards rural sanitation and solid waste management. Sikkim govt. urges Governor to save Nathu La trade Gangtok, June 7 (IST 18:53): With the much-hyped Sino-India border trade at Nathu La recording no transaction last month, Sikkim government has urged Governor B P Singh to convince the Centre to review the goods on the trade list urgently to save the bilateral trade from becoming a non-event, official sources said on Sunday. "We have requested the Governor to take up with the comnmerce ministry the review of the goods on the trade list during his proposed visit to New Delhi in order to revive the traders' interests in the border trade", an official of the state commerce and industries department told here. A delegation of the commerce and industries department led by its director Ujjwal Gurung will visit the national capital soon to take up the matter with the Centre, he said. At the local level, the state government held a meeting with the army and custom officials two days ago to dwell on the measures to boost border trade by way of the review of the goods list and improvement in the infrastructure between Gangtok and Nathu La, the official said. The historic Nathu La trade hit its lowest point in May last, the first month of the resumption of trade this season, with no no transaction being recorded nor traders from either side visiting the marts for business purposes apparently to protest against the failure of the two governments to review the list of goods. The officer said the key to resurrect the border trade lay strictly with the Centre which alone could decide the direction of the Sino-India border trade at Nathu La, he said. Officials here concede that the traders have a point as the goods on the trade list were not not financially viable considering the costs incurred by them in import of goods. "The state government has raised this point with the Centre for review of the goods list time and again, but to no avail as the latter appears to be not so keen to take the border trade to the next level for making it a full-fledged trade between the two countries from Nathu La frontier in view of security implications", they said. The traders, on their part, have been adamant that they will not not take part in the border trade in spite of pressure from the state government agencies as the Nathu La trade was simply not not a judicious business proposition, a representaive of Indo-Chinese Traders Association of Sikkim (ICTAS) said. Apart from the review of the goods list, the Centre should also consider lifting the restriction on the marketing of the imported goods ouside Sikkim to enable the traders to make some profits as the local market was already choked with Chinese goods, he said. Nathu La border trade was re-opened by the two countries in 2004 after a gap of about 40 years with India setting up a trade mart at Sherathang and China at Renguingang in Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR). Under the bilateral agreement, India had approved 29 items on the trade list, while the number of items approved by China stood at 15. In the first two years, the traders had shown tremendous enthusiasm in the bilateral trade which grew substantially at Rs 9.6 million last year, but at the same time the demand for review of goods on the trade list grew louder resulting in no transaction of goods at the border trade last month.
Cash award to promote cardamom production in Sikkim Gangtok, June 6 (IST 23:55): The Central Spices Board has instituted a cash award for cardamom producers from this year with a view to encourage competition among farmers for an increase in productivity of the cash crop in Sikkim, an official release said on Saturday. The first prize carries Rs. One lakh and a citation, while the second prize has a cash component of Rs. 25,000, besides a citation, the release said adding, the second prize has been reserved for a woman farmer. Under the process devised for selection of the eligible candidates for the awards, nominations will be collected by the local spices board and an expert committee will visit the cardamom fields from September 15 onwards. This team will make a spot verification of the claims with regard to the production of the crop, the release said. A farmer must have a minimum of 0.4 hectare land for cultivation of cardamom and the crop should be free from pest and disease, with exceptionally high yield for consideration for the award, the release added. The Himalayan state had the distinction of being the largest cardamom grower for years, but the quantity of the produce has fallen in recent years due to apathy of farmers and a lack of incentive from the government.
Sikkim inks tourism agreement with Singapore-based Master Consult Services Gangtok, June 6 (IST 23:55): Sikkim government has signed an agreement with a Singapore-based consultancy firm Master Consult Services Pvt. Ltd. for laying out a ten-year road map for promotion of tourism. The agreement was signed by Chrisopher Khoo, Managing Director, Master Consult Services Pvt. Ltd. and SBS Bhadauria, Secretary, Sikkim Tourism recently in Gangtok. News agency UNI reported that the company will charge about Rs 65 lakh as consultancy fees. The company's blueprint for Sikkim tourism development will comprise tourism audit, strategic analysis, market development and promotion, manpower and skill up-gradation and along with the infrastructure across the state, a government source informed.
Sikkim to market Himalayan Viagra
Gangtok, June 4 (LN): The Sikkim government is considering a proposal by the Forest and Wildlife Department to market the medicinal herb Cordyceps Sinensis popularly known as Himalayan Viagra. The herb, whose scientific name is Caterpillar Fungus, is found abundantly in the forests of the Himalayan state. Apparently taking cue from the neighbouring countries of Bhutan and Nepal which have legalized the trade of the Cordyceps Sinensis herb, the Forest and Wildlife Department of the state government has also proposed a similar measure by the state. The department's officials argued that since the herb's availability in the black market fattened the pockets of only a handful of smugglers, its sale in the open market would benefit both the Forest and Wildlife Department as well as the local people. They also cited the widespread illicit trade of forest produce to buttress their argument in favour of the open market sale. The department also suggested that a regulated mechanism for plucking the herb from the forests be put in place and authorized dealers be appointed to market it, official sources told here. The Himalayan state could generate a significant amount of revenue from marketing the medicinal plant which costs between 2000 to 2600 US dollars per kg in the open market, the sources said. The draft proposal has suggested a mechanism for collection and marketing of the herb under which only the Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCS), registered with the forest department, will be allowed to collect it. The only condition is that the jfmc will have to be from the particular area where the herb is found. The collection of herbs from the wildlife and forest sanctuaries will, however, be not permitted under any circumstances in view of the sanctity of the reserved forests, they said. The draft proposal has also suggested a formula for sharing of revenue from the marketing of the medicinal herb on the basis of 25:75 to the forest deparment and JFMCS, the sources said. It may be mentioned that the valued medicinal herb is found in vast forest areas in East, West and North districts of Sikkim at places like Green Lake, Dzongri, Thamjey, Nathu La pass, Doman Valley, Tholung pass, etc, located above 8,000 feet under the jurisdiction of the forest department. Though the marketing of the medicinal plant is banned in Sikkim, it is available in the black market for years with smugglers making crores of rupees by selling it to shady dealers both Indian and foreign, the department's officials said. Recently forest department sleuths had nabbed two smugglers with a haul of 17 kg of the Himalayan Viagra from Singtam in July, last year. Cyclonic storm weakened into a deep depression over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and NE Bird flu scare in Sikkim after 9 pigeons found dead Transparent and accountable government pledged in Sikkim Sikkim Congress chief hospitalised New Sikkim legislative assembly to be constituted tomorrow Anti Terrorism Day observed Gorkhaland is not the ultimate goal of the organization: BGP Gangtok, May 19 (IST LN): Audiences in Sikkim can now listen to two more BBC programmes - BBC Take One and BBC Fun 'n' Games - from 21st May 2009 on Radio Misty Sikkim 95 FM. Radio Misty is Sikkim’s only 24x7 FM station.BBC Take One, which will be aired every Thursday at 1245 pm, gives an honest and informed opinion on new Bollywood and Hollywood films released in the week, with previews and box-office reports. The sports magazine BBC Fun 'n' Games, which will be aired every Saturday at 0645 pm, is a weekly roundup of the recent sporting action from around the world, ranging from cricket to Formula 1. It attempts a closer look at sports personalities’ lives and brings them to the listeners like never before - with peppy music, celebrity interviews, stars-speak insights and forecasts. Radio Misty is already airing BBC Ek Minute, BBC Ek Mulaqat and BBC Premier League Update. Nishant Mittal, CEO, and Radio Misty Sikkim 95 FM, said: “We are getting more BBC shows with the induction of BBC Take One and BBC Fun 'n' Games. This will keep listeners up to date in Bollywood and sports happenings. The alliance with the BBC is a major boost in our station's efforts to offer quality content and entertainment to our listeners. “ Indu Shekhar Sinha, Business Development Manager, BBC World Service, added:”We are very pleased that our entertainment endeavour BBC Take One and sports magazine BBC Fun 'n' Games will now be heard on Radio Misty Sikkim 95 FM , Gangtok. What makes it all the more exciting is that the Misty listeners will be introduced to Fun n Games through an Indian Premier League special programme this week." known by its tagline "Gungunate raho" Radio Misty Sikkim 95 fm is the first 24x7 FM station in Sikkim. With the motto, "Local people, Local voice, Local station, Local choice", Radio Misty Sikkim 95 FM connects local people via interactive and innovative shows, focusing on local culture and heritage. Its programmes are designed to cater for people from all walks of life and all ages. Prime Minister submits resignation: asked to continue till further arrangements are made SDF government will focus on the basic needs of the state Sakewa observed SDF wins Sikkim's lone Lok Sabha seat, swept in all assembly seat Gangtok, May 17 (IST 5:15): Riding on a pro-incumbency wave, the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) on Saturday swept all 32 assembly and the lone Lok Sabha seats in Sikkim.
All the four women candidates of the ruling party -Chandra Maya Subba (Maneybung-Dentam), Neeru Sewa (West Pendam-SC), Tulshi Devi Rai (Melli) and Tilu Gurung (Namthang-Rateypani) made it to the state legislature. Manmohan Singh claims victory in elections People have rejected CPM: Mamata Sikkim's first ever Marwari film goes on floor No tampering in EVM this time: Bhandari NDA seeks to woo Chamling Expo 2009 inaugurated BJP will support smaller states demand: Shivaraj Live telecast of 16th May poll result Double murder accuse escaped from police custody Drop in infant mortality rate in the country
CJ requested the advocates not to linger the cases EC to inquire into repeated names of voters in electoral rolls East Sikkim authorities issue 32 passes for Nathu La traders Two arrested in Gangtok for kidnapping from Jammu Hundreds of tourists stranded in north Sikkim Free ITES and BPO skill training by KEONICS Interaction on protection of labour rights Sikkim put alert against Swine flu Govt alerts SSB to step up vigil on Indo-Nepal border Estimated 78 per cent electorate exercise franchise in repoll A record 82.1 per cent turn out registered in Sikkim |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Copyright "http://www.bpmatrix.in, All rights reserved. Sikkim News Portal, haalkhabar.com hosted at Sikkim 's first web hosting industry. Site optimized for Internet Explorer 6 and above. |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||




