RAILWAY BUDGET 2009-10 
Ten North-Eastern Railway Projects including Sikkim  declared as National Projects

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. 
This was announced by the Minister of Railways, Kumari Mamata Banerjee in Parliament today. Presenting the Railway Budget for 2009-10, she said, the North-East Region is very sensitive and its projects are in progress for providing connectivity to State capitals of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram. 
The Minister said, the construction of national project in Sikkim from Sivok to Rangpo is proposed to be entrusted to IRCON for time bound completion. The surveys for new lines connecting Gangtok and Shillong have been completed and the proposals would be further processed for necessary clearances. 
Kumari Mamata Banerjee said, a proposal for creation of North-East Region Rail Development Fund has already been initiated to ensure necessary funds for timely completion of National Projects in the region. 
The Minister said, the work of Lumding-Silchar gauge conversion is getting adversely affected due to adverse law and order conditions in the area. She said, the matter has been taken up with the concerned authorities for providing necessary security so that the work could progress smoothly.

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. 
The journal, to be published as monthly and quarterly bulletins, will help create awareness among the general public about the working of the judicial system in the state, he said at a function in the premises of the Sikkim High Court here. 
“The High Court authorities for their initiatives to educate the people about the judicial process through the newsletter,” Governor said.
Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling and judges of the Sikkim High Court were present at the newsletter release function. 

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. 
Sikkim was chosen for the resort because the state has favourable law and order conditions, peace, good governance and scenic beauty. Also there is a thrust on the Buddhism circuit and significant contributions and support from the state government in this regard.
Sprawled over forest area of 25 acres, Mayfair Deluxe Spa Resort houses 63 furnished rooms with select villas having their own controlled dip pools. The resort is built with Mayfair's signature 'neo colonial' architectural style with a Bhuddist theme to it. Its world class SPA and the first full fledged on-shore casino in India are additional in making this new resort the number one desitination for luxury travellers to India's North East. The whole design is fused with local Sikkimese architecture. The property is adorned with white Lord Buddha statues, a large Shiva Linga, murals on Buddhism theme, cobbled paths, fire spitting red dragons and red rooftops.

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.
At the outset, the Chief Secretary, thanked official for rendering untiring support and coordination in executing the policies and various programmes of the Government during the previous tenure and expressed hope that same will continue this time as well. The Chief Secretary further emphasized on the effective implementation of the Government policies and observing good governance practices so that the State and the people derive maximum benefits. There should be no compromise on the quality of work and rules and regulation should be strictly followed, he said. 
The Chief Secretary also emphasized on maintenance of road in and around the capital and insisted that the repair and carpeting of the Nam Nang road to be taken up on urgent basis. 
Commissioner- Cum- Secretary UD&HD informed that the carpeting of various connecting roads in the state capital is being undertaken. The carpeting of Sonam Tshering Marg will be taken up from 4th July tentatively and the road would be closed to traffic for four days. Inconvenience for the public is highly regretted, he said. 
Representatives from the Finance and Revenue Department also stressed that Revenue Collection target should be accelerated and more effort is required to gain further collection to boost the State Revenue. He also emphasized that all advances lying pending be settled expeditiously.
The meeting also reviewed important decisions taken during the meeting of Council of Ministers, Legislators in Mintokgang on Tuesday. Other issues including administration and functioning of RAC, Karfectar and BACs, status of pending forest clearances, drainage and sewerage system, timely distribution of quality seeds, cleanliness and maintenance of tourist destination, improvement of health sector etc were also discussed.
The Chief Secretary also reviewed the stock of essential commodities to meet the requirements during the monsoon.

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. 
The Minister said that he was already aware of the interim report of the Yashpal Committee and that he was committed to implement the recommendations of the National Knowledge Commission and the Yashpal Committee which would be pivotal towards the reforms in the educational sector in the country. 
Sibal said that the Ministry of Human Resource Development would like to place on record deep appreciation for the document which is a road map for the education for the future in the country. He said that the Yashpal Committee has done extensive dialogue with all stakeholders, and it will thus, be acceptable to the nation.

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.
The accused teenagers have been arrested on charges of grievous assault on their neighbour.

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.
He also announced the district party chief's names and said they are the ultimate authority to run the party maintaining the discipline and policies of the party.
Chamling also said party should run by whole timers and suggested the party members those who are engaged in their business should not aspire to ladder up in top echelon in the party. “It is better to do business and contract. I welcome this. But they (the contractors and businessmen) should not come to become a central executive member in the party. This mismatch spoils the party and government,” he 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.
Chamling added for an efficient government now onward every three years the government officials would get posting so that all people irrespective of rural and urban can get the equal benefit and service from the employees.

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.
He also said shortly the government is buying two 15 seater helicopters for the state.
Besides, he said under village action plan the all the villages of the state would be developed at par with the villages of Switzerland with the help of Swiss technocrats.
He also said within a month there will be micro level verification. Under that plan the government would collect all the details of the household and accordingly the government prepares the amount of assistances and formulates the policy, he aid.

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.
The ministers and MLA inspected all the floors of Kanchajunga shopping complex and talked to the traders regarding their inconveniences and problems.
On the occasion, Lal Bazar Hawker Association also placed some demands of the association before UD&HD minister. One of their demands was to restart of lift of the shopping complex. “Besides, we want regular water supply and alternative power supply like generator, “Lakpa Sherpa, a member of the association said.
On the day, the ministers and MLA also visited M.G.Marg and new market and asked the traders to maintain their area neat and clean. 

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.
Pradhan, in his address, said chief minister Pawan Chamling has dreamt that Sikkim should be advance in IT sector also. “He has given very much emphasis on the development of IT sector in the state that reflects in his every speech. So, the prospects of BPO industry in the state are bright,” he said.
HRD minister further added Sikkim has already excelled in tourism and now it is the turn of IT sector. “Within these five years, Sikkim will become a centre of excellence in IT sector also,” he noted.
UD&HD minister D.B.Thapa was also present on the occasion as guest of honor. He, in his address, said IT sector is the need of the hour. With this we could compete with the world. He also expressed happiness that BPOs would create number of employments for the local youths.
Anil Joshi, promoter and co-founder of HIGSL, said “when I heard Sikkim Democratic Front government came in power fourth time that sounded SDF government is stable and the peaceful state is conducive for setting up BPO industries And accordingly , I decided to set up a venture in the state, “Joshi said.
He also said when he first time set up BPO in Gurgaon, more than 40 per cent employees were from North East but due to unconducive environment, soon they left their jobs. “Now the industries and opportunities have come to their doorstep, “he remarked.
On the occasion Sushil Ramola, co-promoter of HIGSL, and local former Zilla panchayat member also addressed the programme.
At present the BPO has only eight staffs. After few months, according to Joshi, the BPO will appoint other employees also. The BPO has the clients from USA and Canada.

Young should come forward to keep pace with changing world: P D Rai

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.
According to Tej Bahadur Karki, whose both legs are amputed below the knees, one of the member of the team, the physically challenged people in Nepal are mostly deprived from their rights and they wanted to know the condition of their counterparts in SAARC counties so that they could collect the exact fact and figures and demand their due rights.
“When we entered India, we came to know the physically challenged people are entitled of reservation in every field from jobs to traveling. But we don't have there,” Karki said sitting in his wheel chair.
They had started their march from 22nd May from Kathmandu. First, in India, they reached Darjeeling and met Bimal Gurung, Gorkha Janamukti Morcha Chief and other social organizations. After that they came to Sikkim through Namchi. 
“Now we have decided to meet Chief Minister Pawan Chamling as we had heard he is very kind to physically challenged people,” Karki told the reporters here at Titanic park.
The team will then leave for Bhutan .

Utility vehicle for Solid Waste Management

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.
Other components of the master plan for revamping Sikkim tourism will include strategies for promotion of tourism industry, infrastructure (present and proposed) up-gradation and marketing issues among others. In addition to scientific exploration of the tourism prospect in the state on a holistic basis, the firm will also draw up a blue print for specific projects; including the Uttaray Tourism Development Plan to sell many of the unexplored destinations to outside tourists for boosting local economy. The government has proposed to build one tourism spot in every constituency for promotion of Adventure, Pilgrimage and Village Tourism on the basis of the recommendations of the consultancy firm. There are 31 territorial constituencies in Sikkim.

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
Gangtok, May 26 (IST 3:53):  The cyclonic storm "AILA" over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal & adjoining Bangladesh moved further northward, weakened into a deep depression and lay centered at 0830 hours IST of today, the 26th May 2009 over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, about 50 km to the north of Malda. The system is likely to move in a near northerly direction and weaken into a depression during next six hours.
Under its influence, rainfall at most places with heavy to very heavy falls at a few places and isolated extremely heavy falls (≥ 25 cm) is likely over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal & Sikkim and Assam & Meghalaya during next 24 hours.
Rain/thundershower is also likely at many places with isolated heavy falls over Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura during next 24 hours.
Squally wind speed reaching 50-60 kmph likely over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal & Sikkim, Assam & Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh during next 12 hours.

Bird flu scare in Sikkim after 9 pigeons found dead
Gangtok, May 25 (IST 23:57):  Nine pigeons have been found dead in East Sikkim district triggering fear of bird flu outbreak, however, the health department denied that the death occurred due to avian flu.
The pigeons were found dead in various parts of Singtam Township yesterday, sending the locals in a tizzy.
The health authorities conducted postmortem on the carcasses and concluded that the birds did not die of the flu, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services department Joint Director K C Bhutia told here on Monday.
There is absolutely no cause to panic, he said. Sikkim was affected by the avian flu in January.

Transparent and accountable government pledged in Sikkim
Gangtok, May 25 (IST 5:57):  Ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), which won a landslide mandate in the assembly polls for a record fourth term under the leadership of Chief Minister Pawan  Chamling, has vowed to provide a transparent and accountable governance besides completing the ongoing development works in Sikkim.
At a legislature party meeting of 31 MLAs at Chamling’s residence two days ago, it was resolved that transparency in the government units will be ensured and government employees will be made accountable for their actions, ruling party sources said today.
The ruling party MLAs further resolved to formulate and implement the policies and programmes in the interest of the people as drafted in SDF poll manifesto, sources said.
In order to ensure that the government machinery functioned to its optimum capability, it was decided that the ministers would stay in their offices from 10 am to 4 pm, they said.
A single window system would be in place for disposal of various works, the sources said, adding SDF legislators further decided to curtail expenses on the running of administration on day-to-day basis, the sources said.

Sikkim Congress chief hospitalised
Gangtok, May 22 (IST 5:57):  Sikkim's former chief minister and head of the Congress' state unit Nar Bahadur Bhandari was hospitalised Thursday after he fainted and complained of breathing problems. 
Bhandari was rushed to the Central Referral Hospital at Tadong Thursday morning in a semi-conscious state and admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Hospital authorities said the former chief minister, who is a diabetic, was also suffering from hypertension.
According to sources, Bhandari might have had a mild cardiac arrest. He could be referred to a hospital outside the state.
He had fainted while talking to Congress leaders in Delhi. "Age has caught up on him and he said he felt very weak and collapsed, it is then we put him into the vehicle and brought him to the hospital," said one of his close associates, adding Bhandari had not been keeping too well since the day the results were declared.

New Sikkim legislative assembly to be constituted tomorrow
Gangtok, May 21 (IST 23:22):  A one-day session of the legislative assembly has been convened on Friday to constitute the eighth legislature, assembly secretariat sources said on Thursday.
Pro-tem speaker Menlom Lepcha will administer the oath of membership to 31 ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) MLAs, including the Chief Minister Pawan Chamling.
After the swearing in of the new MLAs, speaker-designate K T Gyaltshen and the deputy speaker-designate M B Dahal will be formally elected into their posts.
Interestingly there will be no member of the opposition parties in the legislative assembly for the first time in 20 years as the ruling SDF swept the assembly polls winning all 32 assembly seats with Chamling himself getting elected from two seats - Poklok-Kamrang and Namchi-Singhithang.
The fourth legislative assembly (1989-1994) too did not have an opposition MLA as the then Chief Minister Nar Bahadur Bhandari had led a similar victory of the erstwhile Sikkim Sangram Parishad. Bhandari is now the Sikkim PCC president.

Anti Terrorism Day observed
Gangtok, May 21 (IST 23:22):  Every year throughout the country, May 21st, the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi is being observed as Anti Terrorism Day. This day was observed at Tashiling, Secretariat with the Chief Secretary, N.D. Chingapa administering an oath. The government employees pledged to keep faith in country’s tradition of non-violence and tolerance and oppose with strength all forms of terrorism and violence.
Mr. D.P Sharma, Special Secretary Home conducted the ceremony and also highlighted the objective of the day.

Gorkhaland is not the ultimate goal of the organization: BGP
Gangtok, May 21 (IST 23:22):  Bharatiya Gorkha Parishang(BGP), a non-political body of all India Gorkha’s, has said Gorkhaland is not the ultimate goal of the organization. “Gokhaland is not our sole demand. We are the organization working for the Gorkha spread in different part of India. So there need to have consensus issues that are useful and important to them also (the Gorkha out side of Darjeeling and Dooars)’ C.K.Sherstha, working president of BGP said in a press conference held on Thursday at the premises of Press Club of Sikkim.
Shrestha, a veteran writer and playwright, however, added Gorkhaland will be much more supportive to upgrade the society of Gorkha community who are economically and socially backward than its counterpart in the country. “But even after formation of Gorkhaland, the problems like unemployment and other social issues will come. “So to address these all problems, we want to install a civil society of Gorkha at par with any other society of India and for that we are doing this organization,” he said.
He also said BGP has moral support to Gorkhaland movement led by Gorkha Janamukti Morcha.
Earlier on the day BGP had a central secretariat body meeting at the residence of Dil Kumari Bhandari,former MP and the president of the organization, regarding the holding of annual general convention.
Sukman Moktan, Secretary General of the organization, said within a month the organization will hold its general convention. BGP has also the resolution to congratulate SDF and UPA government for their victory in election and formation of Government.

Prime Minister submits resignation: asked to continue till further arrangements are made
New Delhi, May 18 (IST 22:22):  The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has tendered his resignation and that of his colleagues in the Council of Ministers.
The President has accepted the resignation and has requested Dr. Manmohan Singh and members of the Council of Ministers to continue in office till alternative arrangements are made.

SDF government will focus on the basic needs of the state
Gangtok, May 17 (IST 17:12): Chief Minster has said immediately after formation of his cabinet he would give priority to the basic needs that people need in their day to day life. “As I have already said in many programmes, my fourth government’s priority will be to complete the programme and plans started in the last tenure. But to top it all, my governments first focus on the basic needs which should be addressed immediately for the people,” Chamling said.
He also said the people have given me this huge mandate. So we not only go to fulfill our promises but must do more works than our promises.
Regarding young generation, the chief minister said youths are the future and pillar of the society. So this new government will underline the progress of young generation. “We want the young blood of the Sikkim should be skilled and trained of world class level .So we will set up independent capacity training institute in the state,” Chief Minster said.
Mintokgang, the official residence of Chief Minster Pawan Chamling had serpentine queue of people to give congratulation Chief minister since Saturday evening. More than six hundred people across the state on the day were queuing up in front of back gate of Mintokgang.
80 year old Bhim Bahadur Paudyal, a resident of Dentam, South Sikkim, has also come all the way to put khada to Chamling. “I am too old to walk. But my last wish is to see Chamiling once,” said Paudyal who was squatting beside the queue not being able to stand
The head of the department and other senior officials also met Chamling on Saturday evening.

Sakewa observed
Gangtok, May 18 (IST 22:22): “Sakewa” the festival of Rai community was observed in the different parts of the state. Paruhang Sapten Manghkim Ruhup in association with Akhil Rai Kirat Sang also organized Sakewa at Ranka Rai Gaon, East Sikkim on Monday. K.N.Rai, former Rural Management and Development Department Minister, was the chief guest of the programme.
Rai, in his address, said Sakewa is the religious festival of Rai community. It is observed while doing worship of Earth. He said Rai community is the nature worshipper.
Dr.Shiv kumar Rai, President of AKRS, said Sakewa is observed by the people of the community when the crop they cultivated are about to reap and harvesting time.
20000 year old history possessed Rai community is rich in culture and religion. He also said Rai communities are different from Hindu culture.
Dr. Rai also gave thanks to Chief Minster Pawan Chamling for granting state holiday on the occasion of Sakewa.
Dr. Rai, who is a research scholar on Rai history and culture, also spoke at length on the importance of different dances of Rai community that are danced during Sakewa and worship to god.
Sewaney Silly(Dance), Chasung Silly and Sakewa Silly are the important sillies of Sakewa, he said.
N.K.Rai, Joint secretary of Cultural department, Dr. C.B.Rai, R.K.Rai and I.B.Rai were also present on the occasion.
On the day, Sakewa Organising Committee of Assamlingzey also organized Sakewa at M.P.ground of Assamlngzey. Former Lok Sahba M.P. Mr. Nakul Das Rai and area MLA Beg Bahadur Rai were present on the occasion. The committee took out a rally also there, informed Himmat Rai, a member of the organizing committee.

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. 
The SDF President Pawan Chamling led the charge of his party's run for a fourth consecutive term in office winning both his assembly constituencies -Poklok-Kamrang and Namchi-Singithang - in South Sikkim. 
Ruling party candidate P D Rai too sailed through in the parliamentary polls vanquishing his Congress rival K N Upreti by a massive 84,868 votes. 
Senior SDF leader D N Takarpa, the speaker of the seventh legislative assembly, won from Rinchenpong (BL) assembly seat for a second term, while Menlom Lepcha (Martam-Rumtek-BL), R N Subba (Soreng-Chakung), C B Karki (Rangang-Yangang), K T N Gyaltsen (Shyari-BL), PS Tamang (Upper Burtuk) registered facile wins. 

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. 
Neither the opposition's charge against Chamling for autocratic style of function, the dual nationality charge against him or the agitation by the apolitical outfit - Affected Citizens of Teesta (ACT) against the hydel projects could impede the SDF's landslide victory. 
Majority of SDF candidates won by over 1000 votes with only its nominee from Sangha assembly seat, exclusively reserved for the Buddhist monks, having a narrow margin of 65 votes. 
Chamling himself won by an impressive margins of 5,956 votes from Poklok-Kamrang assembly constituency polling a staggering over 70 per cent votes and inflicting a humiliating defeat on BJP nominee Padam Prasad Sharma who secured only 167 votes. 
It was Sharma who had first raked up the dual nationality charge against Chamling last year and recently filed a writ petition in the Delhi High Court. 
The SDF president, who secured a record sixth term in the state legislature after being first elected from Damthang assembly constituency in 1985, also won handsomely from the adjoining Namchi-Singhithang assembly constituency by a margin of 5644 votes.

Manmohan Singh claims victory in elections
New Delhi, May 16 (IST 17:24):  Prime Minister Manmohan Singh declared victory in India's national elections on Saturday, saying voters had given the Congress party-led coalition a "massive mandate."
Singh spoke as results indicated his alliance had achieved a sweeping — and surprising — success in the monthlong polls that will keep Singh in power for another term.
"I express my deep sense of gratitude to the people of the country for the massive mandate they have given" the alliance, he said.

People have rejected CPM: Mamata
Kolkata, May 16 (IST 17:24):  Flush with success of the Trinamool Congress-Congress alliance in Lok Sabha poll in the Left bastion of West Bengal, Trinamool chief Mamata Banerjee on Saturday demanded early assembly election in the state, saying the people have expressed no-confidence in CPI-M-led ruling Front. 
"The people have expressed no-confidence in the CPI-M-led LF through their verdict in Lok Sabha poll and we want an early assembly poll in the state", she told Bengali news channel Star Ananda even as the results trickled in. 
Thanking the people, she said "I salute them for the way they fought against CPI-M terror and exercised their franchise. We dedicate our victory to the people." 
Asked if Trinamool, which emerged as a key partner of UPA, would get some good portfolios in the central government, Mamata said the vote-counting was still not over. 
"Let all our newly-elected MPs come. We will sit and discuss. I had earlier stated that we will not go with BJP and work for installation of a secular government in Delhi". 

Sikkim's first ever Marwari film goes on floor
Gangtok, May 16 (LN):  “Khoto Sikko”, the first Marwari film to be made here highlighting the lives of the migrant Marwari community living in the state for generations, has gone on the floors. Producer-director Rakesh Somani says that the small budget family drama will create ripples at the box office.
“This is the first Marwari film being made by a Sikkimese. Marwari boy Raunak Somani from Gangtok plays the male lead. Sonia Sekh, who is from Namchi in South Sikkim, is paired opposite him," Somani, who is also directing the film, told reporters at the mahurat shot of the film Friday.
The film will be shot and made in Sikkim. Senior Journalist B.P. Bajgain will work as the assistant director.
"The movies that are made in Jodhpur do not appeal to us who live in the Himalayan belt. There are many like us in the northeast region and other places who don't understand the pure language used by the films that come out from Rajasthan. This is our film for our audiences," said Somani, managing direcor of SK Audio vision Pvt Ltd.
Somani plans to wrap up the film this year and will have 80 percent of the shooting in the state. The rest will be shot in Rajasthan, Siliguri and Kakribhitta at Indo-Nepal border.

No tampering in EVM this time: Bhandari
Gangtok, May 15 (IST 22:24):  Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee President N.B.Bhandari has said he has full faith in this time’s election as the EVMs are put under strong security vigilance by the para-military force and cadres of the party. “Our men have been manning the strong rooms in all four district whole day. And we have faith, this time there is not done any tampering in EVMs,” he told.
Bhandari, in a press conference organized on Friday at his party office, further said this time “we are very confident we will certainly win and that is why we are giving duty round the clock for the security of the ballot box”.
The congress party workers were seen giving duty for the security of EVMs which are put in strong room at TNA Auditorium Hall. Kiran Tamang(Pakhrin), polling agent of Arun Basnet, a Congress candidate from Upper Tadong, who was on duty at TNA, said they gave the duty from morning 7 am to till 7.30 pm. “We are five in a group. There is duty of two days for a group and from next day another group’s turn” he said.
They stay in the night nearby a room of TNA School and take food in canteen of TNA School. Regarding their expenses in lodging and taking food they said the party office made the whole arrangement. 
As to security rearrangement, Tamang echoed Bhandari.” There is no doubt at all in security arrangement. We see there is tight security of ITBP personals. There are also CCTV cameras installed. What else than this? he replied.
Sawroop Sing, a sub inspector and the in-charge of camp of Indo Tibet Border Police force deployed at TNA for strong room, said one Sub Inspector and 39 wars (soldiers) are deployed for the security of the strong room.
Besides, the forces are equipped with advance automatic guns INSAS and LMG. Not to mention, there is a 2000 ltrs capacity fire tender stand by outside the strong room and 50 ltrs. handy fire extinguisher inside. “Total 12 fire fighters are giving their duty round the clock in each shift with 4 personals “said S.T.Lepcha, assistant sub inspector of Fire service. 

NDA seeks to woo Chamling
Gangtok, May 14 (IST 20:12):  With the prospect of a hung Parliament when every MP counts in the process of government formation at the Centre, NDA is seeking to woo the Sikkim Democratic Front.      
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan, who is here on a five-day visit with his family after hectic campaigning, is likely to broach the issue at a dinner scheduled at Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling's official residence at Mintokang tonight, BJP sources told here.      
The post-poll scenario at the centre, particularly the role of SDF in the event of its return to power in the assembly polls, held simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls, and that of its candidate P D Rai from the sole parliamentary seat in the state, is likely to figure in the talks, they said.      
Chauhan's interaction with Chamling may give an inkling of the the latter's mindset and its outcome will give sufficient feedback to the NDA central leadership to engage the Sikkim strongman in further discussions to lure the lone SDF MP if he is elected, the sources said.      
Chamling has been non-committal so far on SDF's support to either the UPA or NDA at the Centre. ''I will decide on the post-poll alliance only after the results are out on May 16,'' he had said.

Expo 2009 inaugurated
Gangtok, May 14 (IST 20:12):  A month long trade fair “Expo 2009”organised by Nayuma Cooperative Society in association with National Industrial Consumer Exhibition (NICE) kicked off from Thursday at car parking ground opposite Old Children Park.
Nim Ethenpa, Secretary, Cooperative Department, inaugurated the fair. Sabir Ahamad, managing director of NICE, said there are more than 50 shopping stalls and the fair was organized especially to encourage the local entrepreneurs.
The fair has been organising since last four years successfully.

Election Department prepared for counting table
Gangtok, May 14 (IST 20:12): State Election Department is in full preparation for vote counting in the state. The votes of the electorals are kept in four district headquarter Gangtok, Namchi, Geyzing and Mangan in high security strong rooms.
For counting of the votes on 16th May total 150 counting staffs including counting assistants and total 50 counting tables will be deployed, informed C.P.Dhakal, joint chief electoral officer of the department.
“In West there will be 49 counting staffs including assistants and 12 tables, in South 39 counting staffs and 14 tables, in East 35 counting staffs and 12 tables and in North 36 counting staffs and 10 tables will require,” said Dhakal.

BJP will support smaller states demand: Shivaraj
Gangtok, May 14 (IST 20:12): Shivaraj Sing Chauhan, the chief minister of Madhya Pradesh is spell bound having seen natural beautiness of Sikkim. Sikkim has done lot of development and progress than its counter parts. It is a peaceful and beautiful state, Chief Minister Chauhan also a senior central leader of BJP said sitting in a chair of newly beautified New Market near MG Marg on Wednesday evening.
H.R.Pradhan, BJP Sikkim unit president, and his other senior party colleagues, whose party criticized SDF government for not doing proper developmental work in the state, was also present there. 
Chauhan, fielding question as to what extent BJP support smaller states demand, further said Sikkim is small state so there was economic development and progress in comparison to its bigger neighbor West Bengal where there is not so developmental activites and progress, he said.
Chauhan who is here for his pleasant trip had come on 11th May. While he visited Baba Harbhajan Sing Mandir, Changu Lake, Hanuman Tok, Saramsa Garden, Tashi View point on Monday and Tuesday.
Chauhan has also schedule of meeting with Chief Minsiter Pawan Chamling on Thursday evening at his official residence.
He, however, said the meeting with Chief Minsiter Chamling would just a convention.
Samdruptshey and Solokup, the famous pilgrim tourism spots of South District are also in the itinerary of Chauhan.
He is here with his wife Sadhana Chauhan, his mother and two sons. He will return on 15th May.

Live telecast of 16th May poll result
Gangtok, May 14 (IST 5:33):  Public of capital town of Sikkim here will watch a live telecast of poll results in the state May 16. That's the day when counting will take place at TNA auditorium.
The office of the chief electoral officer has tied up with local TV providers, Nayuma Cable, for an ambitious onscreen and live display of the counting process at Titanic Park here at MG Marg. 
A big screen will be installed at Titanic Park. A similar live telecast of the counting process is also planned at the chief electoral office. Now everyone is hoping the weather gods will smile and there will be no rain during the telecast.

Double murder accuse escaped from police custody
Gangtok, May 14 (IST 5:33):  A double murder accused, who allegedly killed his wife and a five-year-old son in Sikkim two months ago, escaped from police custody Wednesday.
Nar Bahadur Kharka was being taken to a court at 3 p.m. when he gave police the slip, according to police sources.
Kharka allegedly slit the throat of his wife with a sickle and strangulated his son to death after he was denied food when he returned home near here from work March 18.
His seven-year-old daughter, the lone witness of the crime, was in a state of shock and is now staying with family members of the accused.
Police have launched a manhunt to nab him.

Drop in infant mortality rate in the country
Gangtok, May 13 (IST LN):  The infant mortality rate (IMR) in the country went down by two percentage points from 57 to 55 per 1,000 live births between 2006 and 2007.
While the overall figure has shown a decrease, the number has gone up in Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and some northeastern States, according to the latest figures released by the Registrar-General of India as per the Sample Registration System (SRS).
The IMR has gone up from 23 to 27 per 1,000 live births in Chandigarh and from 31 to 34 in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In Uttarakhand, the number of children dying per 1,000 live births has gone up from 43 to 48, in Manipur from 11 to 12 and in Meghalaya from 53 to 56. Similarly, the IMR figure has shown an uptrend in Nagaland to 21 from 20 in the previous survey, from 33 to 34 in Sikkim, and from 36 to 39 in Tripura.
Strangely, while Manipur has an IMR of 11, both in rural and urban areas, the latest statistics show that the figure has gone up to 13 in rural areas and slumped to nine in urban areas. However, it continues to have the lowest IMR followed by Kerala at 13.
The worst performers, despite an improvement, continue to be Madhya Pradesh at 72 followed by Orissa at 71, Uttar Pradesh at 69, Assam at 66 and Rajasthan at 65. The other States whose performance is not so satisfactory are Chhattisgarh (59), Bihar (58), Haryana (55), Gujarat (52) and Jammu and Kashmir (51).
The rural-urban divide is also visible in the data. The IMR in rural India is 61, while it is 37 in urban areas.
The SRS is a large-scale demographic survey for providing reliable annual estimates of birthrate, death rate and fertility and mortality indicators at the national and sub-national levels. Initiated on a pilot basis by the Registrar-General in a few States in 1964-65, it became fully operational during 1969-70 with about 3,700 sample units.
The field investigation consists of continuous enumeration of births and deaths in selected sample units by resident part-time enumerators, generally anganwadi workers and teachers, and an independent survey every six months by SRS supervisors. The data obtained by these two independent functionaries are matched and the unmatched or partially matched events re-verified in the field.
The sample unit in a rural area is a village or a segment if the village population is 2,000 or more. In urban areas, the sample unit is a census enumeration block with a population ranging from 750 to 1,000.

CJ requested the advocates not to linger the cases
Gangtok, May 12 (IST 8:31):  High rise and expensive litigation and in ordination delay in justice, people afraid to go to court but now justice has come at the doorstep of the people of Sikkim, Chief justice of High Court of Sikkim Aftab H.Saikia said in an inaugural programme after inaugurating a mediation centre at the premise of Sikkim State Legal Service Authority on Monday.
Chief Justice Saikia further said the mediation center, which was inaugurated coinciding with the golden jubilee year of High Court of Sikkim, was opened for speedy delivery of justice system and to make the justice accessible for the common people.
It is a landmark in the history of Sikkim judiciary to set up mediation centre, he said adding very shortly the other mediation centers would be opened in other three districts of the state.
Mediation centre, he said, in not new concept. From time immemorial panchayat and village heads in villages used to mediate the disputes by taking everybody’s opinion attend in panchayat and such justice would effective, he said.
He also reminded Bhagawat Gita and said even Krishna had mediated between Kaurav brother over fighting during Kurushetra war.
On the advantage of mediation, he said there are many petty cases like divorce, family dispute and others which can be sorted out by mediation that come to court and take away its valuable time.
He added there would be trained mediators for the job and the parties would not be forced for mediation. Certain terms and conditions are laid down before the parties and accordingly the matters would be sorted out, Justice Saikia said.
At first 12 advocates are sent for training in Delhi for mediators, he said.
Justice Saikia, however, requested the advocates not to linger the cases under mediation centre and said the prompt justice will create belief among the people.
He also urged the advocates the mediation justice should not only be resolution but should make a revolution in justice delivery system.
Justice Saikia also mentioned Magna Carta, the great charter, is also a simply outcome of a mediation from England on 12th Century.
In the programme Justice Anand Prakash. Subba and Advocate General S.P.Wangdi also addressed the programme. Wangdi spoke on the role of mediators and their professionalism.

EC to inquire into repeated names of voters in electoral rolls
Gangtok, May 11 (IST 20:40):  The Election Commission has ordered an inquiry into the allegations of a large number of voters having enlisted their names in the voter's lists of Darjeeling hills and Sikkim simultaneously.
"Chief Electoral Officer, T T Dorjee, has asked us to find out the details about the people having enlisted their names in two places," District Magistrate of East district of Sikkim, Vishal Chauhan told here.
The investigation would start after the ongoing elections. A software in possession of EC would reveal the details of the dubious voters, officials said.
The voters would be given the option to have their names registered in one place of their choice, a state election department official said.
The local media had reported that a large number of voters enjoyed voting rights in their native places in Darjeeling Hills as well as in the rural areas of Sikkim where they work.
They allegedly left for Darjeeling hills on April 30 to cast votes, lowering turn out of voters at Upper Tadong, Arithang and Gangtok assembly segments, sources said.

East Sikkim authorities issue 32 passes for Nathu La traders
Gangtok, May 11 (IST 20:40):  The East Sikkim district authorities have issued 32 passes to Indian traders for participating in the annual border trade at Nathu La against a total of 100 applications, a senior official said on Monday.
East Sikkim District Collector Vishal Chauhan denied reports that the uthorities were handling the issuance of trade passes in a "hamhanded manner".

Two arrested in Gangtok for kidnapping from Jammu
Gangtok, May 11 (IST 20:40):   Two men have been arrested here for allegedly kidnapping three women from Jammu and Kashmir, police said Monday.
The two men were traced and arrested by the Jammu police Sunday. 
"Jammu police arrived here with arrest warrants for the three accused. Of the three men, two were arrested on May 10. Both were arrested from the Pani House area here. One man is absconding," Superintendent of Police (East) M.S. Tuli said.
The Jammu police traced them with the help of their mobile phone calls.

Hundreds of tourists stranded in north Sikkim
Gangtok, May 10 (IST 23:00):  A major landslide at Lanthey Khola in Sigyik area in north Sikkim has cut off the road link between Mangan and Chungthang, leaving several hundred tourists stranded, police said on Sunday.
The landslide took place late on Saturday night following heavy rains. Boulders and soil from the mountains slipped and blocked the roads for hundreds of domestic tourists, whose exact numbers or their vehicles are yet to be known as the rains have disrupted the telephone communication.
Casualty to life and property, if any, was also not known.
The road connects the capital town of Gangtok to the popular tourist destinations of Lachung and Lachen.
Border Road Organisation (BRO), an army unit responsible for construction and maintenance of road infrastructure in border states, has started clearing the debris.
It will take about three hours to clear the road and resume vehicular traffic, BRO sources said.

Free ITES and BPO skill training by KEONICS
Gangtok, May 8 (IST 7:40):  Karnatka State Electronics Development Corporation Ltd (KEONICS), a public sector undertaking of  Government of Karnataka is offering a six months long free training program on ITES and BOP skills Training under DoNER Project, North East.  This course is meant for students and unemployed youth within the age group of 40 with minimum qualification of Class X pass.  The course will contain Call Centre Training/Secretarial Practice.
KEONICS have been awarded by Ministry of DoNER, Government of India to serve Sikkim state students and unemployed youth and help them to improve their computer skills to get employed.
As per the information, for further information, any interested persons fulfilling the qualification and age may contact Director, Department of Information Technology, Secretariat Annexe-I, 5th Floor, Kazi Road at Gangtok.

Interaction on protection of labour rights
Gangtok, May 7 (IST 5:40):  Sikkim state legal service authority, East & North district in association with state labour department organized an interactive programe observing National Legal literacy week for protection of labour rights at the premises of government fruits preservation factory, Sikkim Supreme, Singtam on Wednesday.
The resource persons of the programme were senior advocate of Sikkim High Court Jagat Rai and Deputy Commissioner of state labour department D.S.Kunwar.
Total 150 workers of the factory had participated in the programme.
Jagat Rai, in his address, said the labourers mostly face the six problems during their job time: employment security, health, accidental insurance, Old age, maternity benefit and struggle for human dignity.
He also said the Labour Day in India was first observed on 1st May 1927.
Kunwar spoke on various laws pertaining to labour rights enforced and extended in Sikkim and explained the rights of the laoburers to equal pay for equal work, irrespective of gender, while discussing the provision of legal service authority act 1987.
The literacy week was observed from 1st May in the state and will be ended on 7th May. The Legal literacy week was also organized at Rangpo WaiWai office on Tuesday.

Sikkim put alert against Swine flu
Gangtok, May 7 (IST 5:40): As soon as the Swine flu news broke out, here in Sikkim also the department has put an alert against the flu. According to Dr. K.C.Bhutia, joint director, animal husbandry and livestock department, the department is in full alert and started holding meeting with experts like Doctors and scientists of the state to take preventive measure for the state.
“The central government has sent direction to our department also and asked us to be alert. According to the directives, now we have started taking suggestions of experts to be alert and withstand against the possible threat of influenza,” Dr. Bhutia said.
He also said though the influenza has not gripped India but there are chances adding that it is more fatal than Bird flu as it is the combination virus of chicken, pigs and human beings.
Regarding the lift on poultry bird selling, Dr. Bhutia said the department has decided to ban the supply of bird till the month of June and after reviewing the situation, the department would lift the ban.

Bhandari expressed satisfaction of free and fair polling in Sikkim
Gangtok, May 6 (IST 19:42): Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee President Nar Bahadur Bhandari has expressed satisfaction of peaceful and free and fair polling in the state.
“I am very much satisfied that the election was held very peacefully and free and fair without any booth rigging and tampering with EVMs like last election,” Bhandari told to reporters in a restaurant at MG Marg.
He, however, gave the credit of this peaceful election to Governor B.K.Sing, saying he was an able administrator once and because of his strict direction the administration did not became partial.
Bhandari is also hopeful of his come back in the power.

Service tax cannot be levied on lotteries: SC
Gangtok, May 5 (LN): The Supreme Court today held that service tax cannot be levied on lotteries  in the country.
A bench headed by Justice S B Sinha has upheld the Sikkim High Court's order that quashed the excise department's notice demanding service tax to the tune of over Rs 2,000 crore from Coimbatore-based Martin Lottery Agencies (MLA) between July 2003 and December 2006.
"We have no other option but to hold that the High Court judgement, albeit for different reasons, warrants no interference," the bench said while dismissing the Centre's appeal. It also imposed cost of Rs one lakh on the government.
It further said that the notice issued to MLA by the government had "rightly been held to be liable to be set aside. Subject to the constitutionality of the Act, in view of the explanation appended to this, we are of the opinion that the service tax, if any, would be payable only with effect from May 2008 and not with retrospective effect".
The bench said that it had decided the issue keeping in view various decisions of the apex court holding that lottery being gambling comes within the purview of the doctrine of res extra commercium.

Govt alerts SSB to step up vigil on Indo-Nepal border
HKD, May 4 (LN): The Centre today asked para- military force SSB to mount vigil along the international boundary with Nepal and alerted bordering states to prevent infiltration into Indian territory.
The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), which guards the highly-porous 1,751- km Indo-Nepal border, has been sensitised to keep extra vigil to prevent movement of unwanted elements along the border by taking advantage of the fluid political situation there.
"The SSB has been asked to keep a close watch on the international boundary," a senior Home Ministry official said.
The SSB top brass at its headquarters here immediately swung into action and issued orders to field formations to heighten vigil and check any possible attempts of infiltrations.
The SSB chief M V Krishna Rao chaired an emergency meeting with senior officials and took stock of the situation.
"We are already maintaining a vigil on the border in view of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Today we reviewed the situation threadbare," Rao said, asserting that the border areas were safe.
Sources said states on the Nepal border -- Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Sikkim -- have simultaneously been asked to remain on high alert.

Estimated 78 per cent electorate exercise franchise in repoll
Gangtok, May 4 (LN): An estimated 78 per cent electorate on Monday cast their votes in the repoll at two polling stations under West Pendam (SC) and Chujachen constituencies respectively under East Sikkim.
The repoll were held for both Assembly and Parliamentary constituencies, the state election department officials said.
About 81 per cent voters cast their franchise at Duga polling station under West Pendam Assembly constituency, while 73.8 per cent votes were polled at Dalapchen polling station under Chujachen Assembly constituency, they said.

A record 82.1 per cent turn out registered in Sikkim
Gangtok, May 1 (LN): A record 82.1 per cent electorate exercised its franchise in the assembly and parliamentary polls in Sikkim, a state election department official said today.
The voters' turn out at yesterday's polling for 32 assembly seats and the lone Lok Sabha constituency has been an estimated 82.10 per cent, the Additional Chief Electoral Officer (ACEO) DK Pradhan told here.
Poklok-Kamrang assembly constituency from where the Chief Minister and the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) president Pawan Kumar Chamling is seeking a sixth-term in the state legislature polled 85.21 per cent votes, while another constituency Namchi-Singhithang having Chamling in the fray polled 74.33 per cent.