Reliance: Strike success to breakdown the communication
Gangtok, August 31 (IST 19:37): Sikkim was paralyzed Monday evening to Sunday evening due to a strike against the company Reliance Communications by its employees of Darjeeling hill under the banner of Gorkha Janamukti Reliance Employees Association. Sikkim was forced to face the reliance internet and mobile services to standstill. Sikkim is falls under Bengal telecom network and whenever Bengal workers of any telecom services strikes on their demand Sikkim will be inoperative. This is an added headache for Sikkim after NH 31-A national highway bandh problem. Every third - fourth mobile user has a Reliance number in the region and the strike success to communication breakdown here.
~ Sikkim must have its own telecom circle, ~ an observer said today. Sikkim has no independent telecom circle. ~Government of Sikkim should take necessary step to build its own telecom circle'~ he said.
Demands of the employees are job security, company mobile phones and SIM cards, uniform and clothes to wear during cold seasons, proper identity cards and appointment letters from the Reliance Company. Pay hike, hill allowances, rent allowances and medical facilities are also demanded by the employees.
Thais are fighting against child sex
HKD, August 31 (IST 19:37): Thailand has made significant strides in tackling the sexual abuse of young children and vulnerable women in the last 10 years. While problems remain (the Sunee Plaza area in Pattaya that Garavelli refers to is periodically raided by police to prevent the prostitution of under-age boys), many other Asian countries have devoted much less energy to reducing the exploitation of children. And amidst all the hoo-hah over Gary Glitter, we should remember that far more Brits abuse children in Britain than they do abroad – and they are far more likely to abuse their own relatives than strangers.
Case on Prevention of Atrocities Act registered against Law secretary
Gangtok, August 31 (IST 19:37): A case was registered against Law Secretary and investigations are underway here. Sikkim Police has registered a case against RK Purakayastha, Law Secretary of the state on a written complaint filed by Dinku Khati, a lawyer and member of Schedule Caste community alleging caste-base remarks and un-Parliamentary words against her.
The FIR had been lodged at Sadar Police Station on August 19 by Khati alleging the Law Secretary of making caste-base remarks to her at his office on the preceding date.
Khati had approached the Law Secretary in connection to a case at his office on August 18 when the remarks were alleged to have been passed.
Police has now registered the case under section 3 of Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act 1989 against Purakayastha on the compliant filed by Khati. An officer of the rank of an SDPO is handling the case as required under the Act.
Police had not immediately registered the case when the complaint was filed on August 19.
SP (East) Dr.M.S.Tuli had at the time directed SDPO Dhiren Lama to conduct a personal enquiry into the matter and ‘to see if a cognizable offence is made out'.
The complaint was again lodged on August 30 at Sadar police station by Khati claiming that she was forced to withdraw her earlier complaint under pressure from concerned quarters. I was compelled to sign a pre-prepared compromise application to withdraw the FIR on August 29 Night, she said.
Claiming no support coming from her fraternity, the advocate has submitted representations to National Commission for Backward Classes, Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and national media houses seeking justice on the case.
Islamic crematorium seeps into the bits and pieces
Gangtok , August 30 (IST 08:31 ): The stairs going up to Islamic crematorium of Gangtok, situated in Aarithang were in very bad condition. Every year, the land seeps into the gap in bits and pieces. Any real chance to build up the sinking land must come from sediment dredged from the road level of Eastern Bye Pass. The state government should take steps necessary for the protection of crematorium and to protect the wellbeing of minority Islamic community of the Gangtok.
~ We're much more vulnerable than we have been in the past. Each passing year, that vulnerability increases,~ Man who lives inside crematorium said. ~We've lost all the easy stuff, now we're seeing the sinking of the whole thing. … The crematorium is in danger, and also becoming smaller. ~ He said. The man who talks with Haalkhabar.com is the care taker of the crematorium and his slump house is also in danger condition.
A team from Jharkhand on a conducted tour to Sikkim
Gangtok , August 29 (IST 18:03 ): Directorate of Field Publicity, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has been organizing conducted tours for Opinion Leaders of various regions. With the aim of bringing awareness among youth leaders on economic development, protection of environment, women and child development, Ranchi Unit of Jharkhand and Central Bihar Region has brought a seventeen member team led by S M N Rizvi. The team left Ranchi on 18th August, 2008 and visited Kolkata, Guwahati, Shillong, Siliguri, Darjeeling and arrived in Gangtok today. The team visited Sikkim Flora Anthodium, Majitar, Sikkim Jewels Factory, Sikkim Himalayan Orchid Cultivation and Rose Cultivation at Assam Linzey. The team will be visiting various projects in Ranka tomorrow.
During their fifteen day tour of different states, the knowledge of the Opinion Leaders on India 's cultural heritage, necessity of protection of endangered species, protection of the environment has been increased. After their return to their villages in Jharkhand they would pass on their knowledge to people of their area.
Missionary schools in Sikkim remain closed
Gangtok , August 29 (IST 18:03 ): The Christian missionary schools in Sikkim on Friday remained closed for the day in protest against the violence on the Christians in Orissa's Kandhamal district earlier this week.
The police said schools like St Thomas , Don Bosco, St Joseph and other missionary schools remained closed for the day after the school authorities had declared an unscheduled holiday today, school sources said.
The students were not told about the reasons behind the closure of the schools, sources said, adding that the decision was taken in compliance with the directive of top missionary authorities.
Assam MP Subba got birth certificate fraudulently: CBI to SC
New Delhi, August 29 (IST 18:03): The CBI has told the Supreme Court that Congress MP from Assam, Mani Kumar Subba, has obtained a birth certificate in a "fraudulent" manner for the purpose of establishing his Indian nationality.
Rejecting the claim of Subba that he was born in Assam's Silguri district, the CBI told the apex court that the MP had given different dates of birth and places of birth to various authorities for different reasons and was thus "prima facie" guilty of various criminal offences.
The CBI's report comes in the backdrop of the apex court's direction to probe the nationality of Subba, who according to a public interest litigation was a Nepalese citizen who fled that country in the 1970s after a murder case was registered against him there.
Subba, in an affidavit before the apex court, had claimed his date of birth as March 16 1958 . He had claimed that he was born in Dadgram village in Darjeeling district of West Bengal and his parents had migrated from Singtam village in Sikkim .
The Lok Sabha MP from Tezpur had claimed he was born at a house with address Door No 1, Dabgra, Ward NO XXIII, PO-Silguri and named Phanindranath Sarkar as its owner.
The PIL had alleged that Subba has changed his name from Mani Raj Limbo to Mani Kumar Subba after fleeing Nepal .
The CBI has said that its verification has revealed that the certificate was bogus and obtained in a fraudulent manner.
"The certificate of birth produced by him in this regard along with his affidavit has been obtained by misrepresentation of facts and in a fraudulent manner since the given birth place was neither in existence nor Phanindranath Sarkar was its owner during and prior to 1958," the CBI has stated in its report.
Compensation to landslide affected family
Gangtok , August 29 (IST 18:03): The twenty five families of Ranka block who were affected from landslide due to the incessant rainfall on Thursday will be given compensation Rs.10, 000/- each on Saturday by Urbasi Paudyal, BDO Ranka at her office.
Speaking to media she said the affected families have been safely shifted in safer places and while shifting they were given Rs.1000/- as expenditure as compensation. The BDO office has also collected ten tarpaulins from District Collectorate office on Friday which will be distributed to the affected people and some of the tarpaulins of BDO office will be used to cover the part where had been landslide.
The most affected villages of the blocks are Pabing, Changram, Doksing and Thami Dara. On Thursday BDO and Sub Divisional Magistrate (East) Dr. A. B. Karki visited followed by District Collectorate Bishal Chauhan on Friday. The restoration work of Louing road which was damaged by landslide on the day has also been started with the visit of senior officials of Road and Bridges department on the day.
According to K. Sitaram, Director, Meteorological Depart of India, the rainfall of Gangtok and its surrounding till Friday morning was 16.2 mm and it will remain till Saturday.
Announcement of 21 st national Photo Contest
Gangtok , August 28 (IST 20:55): The 60th United Nations General Assembly has declared 2008 as the International Year of Planet Earth. Observance of The Year of Planet Earth will go a long way in not only in engaging peoples' imaginations but also enhancing their knowledge about our Planet. It will also enable them to use this knowledge to make the earth safer, healthier and wealthier place for our children, grandchildren and their grandchildren. The Photo Division Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has also decided to conduct its 21st National Photo Contest on the theme “Life and Environment” as its small contribution.
There will be two sections of the Contest, one for black and white photos and the other for colour photos. Participants may send a maximum number of four photographs of sizes between 12X15” to 16X20” to the Director, Photo Division, Soochna Bhavan, C.G.O. Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi-110 003. The last date of submission of the entries is 5th September 2008. The Division has raised the award money this year. The first prize will now be of Rs. 25,000/- second prize Rs. 20,000/- and third prize Rs. 15,000/-. The commendation award has also been enhanced to Rs. 5,000/-. The cash award will be accompanied by a plaque and citation. Details of the terms and conditions are available in the website www.photodicvision.gov.in .
SC/ST Confederation Calls upon Government to Act Immediately to Curb Orissa Violence
New Delhi, August 28 (IST 20:55): All India Confederation of SC/ST Organizations condemns the VHP (Vishwa Hindu Parishad), World Hindu Council sponsored massacre over tribal Christians of Orissa following the killing Swami Lakshmananada Saraswati on August 23 by suspected Maoist.
Dr. Udit Raj, Chairman of Indian Justice Party and SC/ST Confederation says, “Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil must act now to stop the VHP sponsored violence over Dalit and tribal Christians before the situation go out of control.” Violence has entered 5th day, “Army and central forces must be deployed immediately to curb the situation,” says Dr. Udit Raj.
Although there are differences over the ideology of Sangh Parivar with departed Swami, “we condemned the killing of the Swami and punished the accused,” says Dr. Udit Raj.
Over the allegation of communal clashes between Hindu and Christians, Dr. Udit Raj denies it by terming, “It is impossible for Dalit and tribal Christian minority of the state. They have been living under the shadow of fear from previous attacks during last Christmas and earlier.”
About the attack on Christian missions and missionaries working among tribal communities following the killing of Australia missionary Graham Staine his minor two sons in 1999, Dr. Udit Raj says, “Upper caste Hindus, who heads the VHP and all Sangh Parivar outfits, do not want the Dalits and tribal to come up in education, economic and social equalities.”
The allegation made by VHP and Sangh Parivar against the conversions, “it is the rights of every Indian citizen to convert to the religion one likes. Dalits and tribal will follow Bim Rao Ambedkar.”
Calling upon the Nation wide protest by church heads, “All India Confederation of SC/ST Organizations and Indian Justice Party support it. It is democratic rights to demand to protect their brotherhood suffering at the mayhem of VHP in Orissa.”
During the attack on Christians in Orissa during last Christmas in Kandhamal district of Orissa, Dr. Udit Raj led a massive rally on March 10 at state capital Bhubaneshor. The Dalits and tribal non-Christians camp forward condemning Naveen Patnaik's Government for failing to protect the minorities in the state.
All India Confederation of SC/ST Organisations ( www.scstconfederation.org ) is the national bodies of Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe government employees, to serve the well being of their communities.
Training programs on the Registration functionaries of the Birth & Deaths
Gangtok , August 28 (IST 20:55): A Training programs for the Registration functionaries of the Birth & Deaths is being organized by the Birth & Deaths cell under the Health Care, human services and Family welfare department from the 29th of Aug, 2008 onwards. The Birth & Deaths Cell will be organizing this programme in all the 24 Block Development Centers in consultation with the BDOs.
The program will be held at Rhenock Block Administrative Centre, East Sikkim on 29 th August, Duga Block Administrative Centre, East Sikkim on 30 th August, Ranka Block Administrative Centre, East Sikkim on 2 nd September and Dentam Block Administrative Centre, West Sikkim on 11 September of this year.
Exhibition cum sale program to search out the potential artist of the villages
Gangtok , August 28 (IST 20:55): State Directorate of Handloom and Handicraft Department under the sponsorship of Development Commission (Handicraft), New Delhi, is going to hold exhibition cum sale at Panchayat Ghar, Martam of Hee-burmek.
According to K.S.Bhutia, assistant director, Marketing, DCC, the department is massively organizing such exhibition cum sale programme at village levels to search out the potential artist of the villages.
He further said earlier the department used to hold such programmes in town but the department didn't find any result from it.
In the programme, therefore, the department has asked the local artists to bring their handicrafts and handlooms for the exhibition and sale. Total 15 stalls will be put at the exhibition centre.
Informing the facilities and benefit given the central government for handicraft artists, Bhutia said the central government has introduced Jeewan Shree life insurance policy and Rajiv Gandhi artist health insurance schemes in tie with a private company ICCI Lombard. “For Jeewan shree which has insurance of Rs.40, 000 they have to deposit just Rs. 40/- annually and the rest Rs.160/- will be covered by India government. Likewise, for health schemes which reimburse up to Rs. 15000/- medical expenses of the artist as well as his family they have to do the policy of Rs.75/- and the government will make up Rs.750/- in addition,” Bhutia said.
Soon after this programme, the department is going to hold such exhibition cum sale programme at Sombaria in West Sikkim also for ten days.
“We have scheduled series of programme for promotion of local artist and their arts during this whole year, “he rounded off.
Equip income particulars for Sikkimese is mandatory: Lepcha
Gangtok, August 27 (IST 21:55): Sikkim Chamber of Commerce gave a memorandum of asking exemption of central income tax for business communities of Sikkim who are residing for more than 100 year back.
Representing the communities S.K.Sarda, President of SCC and Suresh Agarwal, General Secretary of SCC, submitted the memorandum to L.D.Lepcha, Income Tax Officer of the newly set up Income Tax Office at Bhanupatha on Wednesday.
The four pages memorandum has sought the exemption of local business communities who have been residing before the merger of Sikkim with India since 26th April 1975, stressing the assurance of chief minister Pawan Chamling who is assuring time and again to take the steps to make them exempted from the central tax under Ladakh Model.
The memorandum which has addressed to union finance minister P.Chidamabaram has also drawn the attention of the finance minister of the difficulties faced in compliance of Direct Taxes in the state of Sikkim, if made applicable retrospectively from 01.04.2007 as per the promise of P. Chidambaram who on 29 April 2008 in Lok Sabha said 'This (income tax act 1961) will apply only prospectively'.
The memorandum said as the Sikkim Tax Manual ceased to operate only on 16th June 2008 that will create confusion to the non-Sikkimese tax individuals.
Around 400 business community people had participated during the submission of the memorandum.
Speaking to press media, L.D.Lepcha said he would forward the memorandum to commissioner who has stationed at Siliguri for further necessary action. He, however, said the people either Sikkimese who have crossed their income according to central income tax manual should furnish their income particulars and may claim exemption thereon which is now become mandatory.
SMIT organizing an Inter College Tech Fest
Gangtok, August 27 (IST 21:55): Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology(SMIT)'s All Core Computer Engineering Students Society(ACCESS) under the Department of Computer Science and Engineering is organizing an Inter College Tech Fest VAASTUSASMITAM-'08 from 28 to 30th August.In his address in a press conference held at SMIT conference hall, Prof. Dr. Mrinal K.Ghose, Professor & Head of the Department of CSE said the fest was organized to make the students active beyond their syllabus, to provide the platform to exchange their ideas each other and bringing quality leadership in them.
Regarding the participant institutions he said so far 12 institutes from Kolkota, Bhubenesawar, Lucknow and Siliguri have already registered their name and the other institutions are also likely to be participated in the programme.
The institute has set two events, Technical and Cultural Events. Dr. Ghose said, however, the outside participants can participate only in Technical Event wherein Programming contest, video making, Business Plan, Gaming, Paper presentation, Debate, Quiz and Robotics are featured in. Likewise, in cultural events there will be Singing and dance competition, street play, comedy show-shirt painting and others.
For the programme, Vice Chancellor of Sikkim University, Chief Secretary of Home Department, Director of Human Resource Development Department, and Director of Postal Department Sikkim will be present.
Earlier Ashish Bhusan, vice president of ACCESS, also said the CSE department is equipped with fully air conditioned computer labs which can accommodate 150 students at a time. He also said the faculty are from the renowned scientist institute of India like ISRO and said ISRO has recognized the department as a centre of excellence in the field of Remote Sensing and GIS and has very generously sanctioned a n amount of Rs.20 lacs.
Sikkim awarded the Tourism emerging state of 2008
Gangtok, August 27 (IST 21:55): Today's Traveler, a travel magazine had organized an Award Function to celebrate 11 years of excellence in travel journalism on the 25th of August 2008 at hotel Crown Plaza, New Delhi.
The award function was attended by high level dignitaries as well as representatives of the various states from the tourism sector and also representatives from the private sector, both national as well as international members of the tourism board. Shri. Yash Chopra, producer and director of the Indian Cinema graced the occasion as the Guest of Honor and the award was given away by the Chief Guest, Mrs. Ambika Soni, Hon'ble Minister of Tourism. Sikkim has been awarded the “Platinum Award for the Emerging Tourism State of 2008” and the award was received by the Officials of the Tourism Department, New Delhi on behalf of the Government of Sikkim.
Draft of the Sikkim tenants and domestic and professional helps Act on net for suggestion
Gangtok, August 27 (IST 21:55): In order to ensure continued peace and security in the State, the State Government has proposed to enact a law for the compulsory verification of all tenants and domestic and professional helps except in respect of those falling under the exempted category.
Draft of The Sikkim Tenants and Domestic and Professional Helps (Compulsory Verification) Act, 2008 has been placed on the State Government website ‘www.sikkim.gov.in' for general information. The State Government has deemed it appropriate to have the views of the members of the general public before the proposed law is enacted. All those whishing to make any comments or suggestions in respect of the proposed legislation are requested to address the same to the “Home Secretary, Government of Sikkim, Tashiling Secretariat, Gangtok” or email at home-sik@nic.in within one month form the date of publication of this notice.
A unique banking system unearth in Sikkim
Gangtok, August 27 (IST 21:55): A private bank of Sikkim pioneering a new banking policy here to ensures borrowers covering accident insurance to guarantee least harassment to the successor in case of unfortunate death. In this policy a widow of deceased person get benefit today. One Deo Kumar Darjee had availed a loan of Rs. 40,000.00 from Citizen bank. The bank as a part of its concern for its shareholders insured him personal accident. Darjee departed with an unfortunate road accident. Reema Darjee, widow of deceased approached the bank to settle the loan availed. The bank assured her that the bank had covered the loan under personal accident insurance. She was entitled to get the balance amount of the insurance claim after adjusting loan. For the loan of Rs. 40,000.00, bank made an accidental insurance policy of 1 lacks with National Insurance Company. The total claim of Rs. 1 lakhs settled today by insurance company and gave cheque of Rs 1 lakhs to bank and after adjusting an amount of Rs. 30,000.00 balance loan, bank handover the cheque of Rs. 70,000.00 to widow of deceased.
~Company like Bharosha and Bisco who were flouting guidelines of RBI effects adversely on other normal banking system, ~ chairman of the CITIZENS Bank P K Pradhan said.
It is significant to reveal that People of Sikkim were tempted into depositing money with the companies by the high interest rates on offer. Flouting RBI guidelines, Bharosha, Bisco and Tina Finlease had offered interest rates as high as 18 per cent in certain fixed deposit schemes. According to the company records available, the total amount swindled by Bharosha is around Rs 14 crore, while the figure is Rs 8 crore for Bisco and Tina Finlease.
~The Licensing Authority will also be statutorily responsible for establishing such type of financial business here in Sikkim , ~ Pradhan said.
West Bengal police seized two vehicles with GL number plates
Siliguri, August 27 (IST 21:55): Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) cadres forced drivers of vehicles bearing West Bengal number plates to affix 'GL' (Gorkha Land) instead of 'WB' on their vehicles at Sukna, considered the entry point to the Darjeeling hills On Tuesday and they were forced to collect coupons of Rs 40 each and the original number plates which had the alphabets 'WB' were painted black,
In respond to the incident, Pradhan Nagar police today seized two vehicles with GL number plates on the outskirts of Siliguri and arrested their drivers, while the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha supporters' tactics of smearing black paint on WB plates in the hills sparked road blockades in the plains.
The law enforcers spotted a Bolero and a Maruti van sporting GL (for Gorkhaland) plates (GL-02A-3963 and GL-02A-2121, respectively) at Dagapur close to Darjeeling More in the morning and seized the vehicles. The owners, Praveen Sunam of Darjeeling and Roshan Pradhan of Sukhiapokhri, were arrested. However, the question about taking similar steps in the hills is not answer yet by the state government authority.
I have no comments on GL number vehicles entering in Sikkim: Akshay Sachdeva, DIG (Range)
Gangtok, August 26 (IST 07:42): DIG Range of Sikkim Police Akshay Sachdeva did not want to make official comment on plying GL vehicles in Sikkim . Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) Chief Bimal Gurung was visited Gangtok Sunday from Darjeeling on his Tata Safari bearing a “GL” number plate, which not legal for the any state administration of the country. It is of note that GJM, would not allow vehicles in Darjeeling and adjoining areas of the proposed Gorkhaland to run without ‘GL' number plates.
For GJM GL number plates are the part of its non-cooperation and non-violent movement to press for Gorkhaland, but for the West Bengal Police and rest of the country it is serious crime.
Before Bimal Gurung's entry in Sikkim with GL number plates it was between West Bengal Government and Central Government to accept or to take action against this move. Now Sikkim is also not taking action against GL number plates. In this situation Government of Sikkim should clear policy on this matter. Using GL number is violating Indian Constitution. It is understood that every wrong doings of political movement settle normally after political settlement but before political settlement it should be under administrative frame.
‘If West Bengal government is not taking action against GL number plate and neighboring state Sikkim is also accepted it then what is the problem of Central government to give Gorkhaland', a political observer said. (Photo:Pravin Khaling)
Hike in salary is necessary for efficiency of the government: Patra
Gangtok, August 25 (IST 22:32): Gangtok: 4th pay commission will start its works formally from its office at Sikkim Police State Guest House. Addressing a press conference at Tashiling Secretariat on Monday the chairman of the commission also former Sikkim High Court Justice R.K.Patra, said the pay commission was not revised since 1998 and there was need to have the revision on at. He also said the inflation has already shot up and to cope with it there need to have revision on the salary of the government employees.
Besides, he said to improve the efficiency of the government and to reach the fruit of the better government, hike in salary is necessary.
Justice Patra, however, did not say how much salary will increase for the state employees. "Right now we can not say how much salary should be hiked as we also have to take care of financial condition of the state exchequer," he said.
Regarding the procedure of the work of commission he said "To start with all the government departments have to furnish the details of the employees to the commission. Only then the commission will start its works."
At present, the commission has two- member- body one is Chairman himself and another is Bijoy Pratap Pradhan, Managing Director Sate Bank of Sikkim , as member secretary. In the later stage they will be assisted by the officials of Department of Personnel.
Sikkim Floriculture Show Room of Delhi is reassigned under the control of the RC
Gangtok, August 25 (IST 22:32): The Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling has expressed his displeasure over the failure of the Sikkim Floriculture Show Room located at the Greater Kailash, New Delhi , to build an image for Sikkim as an organic State and was not happy with the lackadaisical manner in which the business was being conducted there. The Chief Minister said that the outlet should now be under the administrative control of the Resident Commissioner, Sikkim House, New Delhi who should see to it that the Show Room functions successfully round the year by marketing all the different products of Sikkim instead of confining itself to flowers, vegetables and fruits.
The meeting chaired by the Chief Minister was attended by the Chief Secretary, N.D.Chingapa, the Additional Chief Secretary-cumFinance Secretary, Development Commissioner, Secretaries of Industries, Agriculture, Buildings, Resident Commissioner, Sikkim House, New Delhi and Chief Engineer, Tourism.
The Chief Minister said that in order to run the Show Room successfully a mechanism has to be developed to diversify the goods for marketing so that the outlet could effectively play the role of a facilitator and match the supply with the growing demands. The Chief Secretary added that the outlet should be multi-purpose under the administrative charge of the Resident Commissioner.
It was also decided in the meeting to start the work of construction of a Shop-cum-Show Room at Baha Kharag Singh Marg New Delhi, where Sikkim has procured a space a few months back. The Chief Minister who was not happy with the delay in executing the work directed the Resident Commissioner, Sikkim House, to take over the responsibility of completing the work within a month and make it operational before the Dusshera. The Chief Minister also said that the out let at Baba Kharag Singh market should market all Sikkim products including flowers, fruits, handicrafts & handlooms and traditional rugs woven at Lachung, North Sikkim .
The Chief Minister also directed the Resident Commissioner to immediately start the construction work of additional rooms at Sikkim House which is being inordinately delayed. The meeting also discussed the repair and renovation work or Sikkim House at Middleton Street , Kolkatta. In this connection the Development Commissioner pointed out the need to shift Tourism's counter from there to Poonam Building Office and give a bigger space to G.T.C.l counter where the traditional al1s and crafts are in good demands.
The meeting also discussed at length as to how best the newly constructed Regional Administrative Centre (RAC) at Jorethang could be used to set an example for other Administrative Centres in the State. The Chief Minister directed that the senior officers of the South and West District should be posted with their staff at the RAC with full administrative and financial powers. The Chief Minister who was impressed with the structure said that the administrative control of the RAC should be given to an officer of Secretary Level and the Centre should be so exemplary and self-contained that it may become a model administrative centre in the State.
A new search engine launched
Gangtok, August 25 (IST 22:32) : A new search engine in the name and style of www.hit4search.com is launched on the occasion of raksha-bandhan. The search engine hit4search surfs the internet using clustering technology.
The usefulness of a search engine depends on the relevance of the result set it gives back. While there may be millions of web pages that include a particular word or phrase, some pages may be more relevant, popular, or authoritative than others. Most search engines employ methods to rank the results to provide the best results first. How a search engine decides which pages are the best matches, and what order the results should be shown in, varies widely from one engine to another. The methods also change over time as Internet usage changes and new techniques evolve.
This search engine, i.e. www.hit4search.com searches results from multiple search engines through clustering technology advocates better coverage of the web and therefore providing better overall results to the user.
Web search engines work by storing information about many web pages, which they retrieve from the WWW itself. These pages are retrieved by a Web crawler (sometimes also known as a spider) — an automated Web browser which follows every link it sees. The contents of each page are then analyzed to determine how it should be indexed (for example, words are extracted from the titles, headings, or special fields called Meta tags).www.hit4search.com surfed 121,617,892,992 web pages from the entire web and made it available for the people to surf.
Follow-up News: One arrested with a haul of explosives
Gangtok, August 22 (IST 08:22): Investigation by Sikkim police on arrested Bhudiman Bhujel, a Nepal national unveiled some important clues. Bhujel have no link with Champasari blast of Siliguri as appeared in some local dailies, giving details of the investigation DIG (Range) Akshay sachdeva told. Bhujel was entered in Sikkim on 19 th of August this year only and stayed at the resident of one Santosh Rai of Ronglee, East Sikkim . Explosives found with him are given by Santosh as per the statement of Bhujel. Santosh is under interrogation and Bhujel is in five days police remand from yesterday. Recovered explosive sticks were marked Power Gel explosive OSCA and recovered diary indicating towards a group called United Marxist Leninist (Maoist) of Bhutan .
Andhaharuko Ramkahani will bestaged on 27 th and 28th day of September
Gangtok, August 22 (IST 08:22): All the artist of drama organized by Press Club of Sikkim continuing four hours of reharshal for the play Andhaharuko Ramkahani. Endurance and effort of the artist in a wonderful shape during reharshal will make play really easier and in a good shape. The play will be staged on 27 th and 28 th day of the September 2008 at Gangtok. (Photo:B P Bajgain)
Meeting to make mechanism of quick detection of wrong driving licenses
Gangtok, August 21 (IST 18:08): The Transport Secretary made it very clear in the meeting that his department strictly go by the prescribed norms while granting registrations to new vehicles and driving licenses. He stressed that no license is issued under pressure. The meeting was told that among various criteria required to secure a driving license passing out from a recognized Driving Training Institute and Traffic Class were also mandatory. However, the Secretary assured that his department will make every possible effort to rectify loopholes, if any, while issuing permits and licenses.
To begin with, Motor Vehicle Department will re-verify the details and other nitty gritty during the renewal of vehicle permits and driving licenses so that issues of Fake driving licenses and minor drivers could be rectified. Since a number of fake driving licenses is suspected from outside the State the Transport Secretary said that a mechanism of quick detection of such licenses could be introduced and carried out in a more aggressive manner. As far as the drivers of the plains are concerned, their driving skill will be retested as per the Sikkim Motor Vehicles(Amendment)Rules, 2006 before authorizing such drivers to drive vehicles in hilly roads of the State. The Secretary further said that genuine endeavor will also be made to give preference to locals while granting driving license so that the personnel trained by the Capacity Building Department of Government of Sikkim in driving vehicles could be fruitfully utilized.
The meeting was held in the chamber of the Chief Secretary, Government of Sikkim, N.D. Chingapa this morning at the initiative of the Chief Minister to review the rules and regulations of granting registration for new vehicles and driving licenses so that various complaints received by the government regarding fake driving licenses and minor drivers could be rectified. These verifications were necessitated in view of the growing number of accidents taking place as a result of rash driving by careless and irresponsible drivers.
The Chief Secretary who is as concerned as the Chief Minister on the growing cases of rash and irresponsible driving leading to many accidents said that the Motor Vehicles department should keep in their mind the cardinal point of rectifying fake driving licenses and underage drivers to avert accidents and keep the trained locals in this line in mind while issuing driving licenses. The Chief Secretary said that the prescribed rules and regulations should be enforced without any reservation but anything which is not relevant to the ground reality should not be implemented. He assured his full help and asked the Motor Vehicle department to make use of his offices, anytime they require.
The meeting chaired by the Chief, Secretary was attended by the Principal Secretary and the Additional Secretary to the Chief Minister, Transport Secretary, Additional Secretary and the Sr. Regional Transport Officer of the Motor Vehicle Department.
Workshop on Geographical Indication of the products
Gangtok, August 21 (IST 18:08): Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Intellectual Property India, Geographical Indication Registry and Crafts Council of India are holding a Workshop in Gangtok on the 22nd of August, 2008. This sensitization workshop is first of its kind in North East. GI Indication is a sign used in goods that have a specific geographical origin and possess essential qualities that are due to that place of origin. The Geographical Indication conveys to a consumer that a product is produced in a certain place and has certain characteristics that are due to that place of production.
Some of the examples of Geographical Indication from India include Darjeeling Tea, Basmati rice, Kanchipuram silk saree, alphonso mango, kolhapuri chappals etc.
The registration of a geographical indication confers on the authorized user's exclusive right to use the GI in relation to the goods in respect of which it is registered. Any association of persons, producers, organization or authority established by or under law can apply. The applicant must represent the interest of the producer of the concerned goods.
Registration is valid for ten years. It can however be renewed.
GI registration confers legal protection to geographical indication in India . Because, it prevents unauthorized use of a registered GI, boosts exports by providing legal protection, promotes economic prosperity of producers, enables seeking legal protection in other WTO member countries and the authorized users can exercise the exclusive right to use the GI.
In this age and day when everyone is copying Indian designs and exporting them back to India for use by Indian consumers, this is a very vital step that every crafts person and producer of unique items should take. We may otherwise reach a stage when our Indian goods will come to us from neighboring countries like it happened in the case of Indian cotton printed goods which were being produced in England and exported back to India .
OAS welcomed the State government's decision of 4th Pay Commission formation
Gangtok, August 21 (IST 18:08): The Officer's Association of Sikkim members present wholeheartedly welcomed the decision of the Government to constitute the 4th Pay Commission, immediately after the announcement made by the Chief Minister on 15th August, 2008 in Paljor Stadium. All the Officers of the State Government convey their thanks and appreciation to the Chief Minister.
The individual Associations will nominate two members each in the Core Committee which will look into the common issues to be placed before the 4th pay Commission. Concerned Officer's Association will submit the names of their nominees to the General Secretary, SCSOA by 25th August, 2008, General Secretary , Sikkim State Civil Service Officers' Association informed.
Recommendation of retention of government employee's transfer is in total observation
Gangtok, August 21 (IST 18:08): The Chief Secretary has directed all Secretaries and Heads of Departments, not to recommend retention of any Government employees transferred on promotion to another place posting or on usual transfers. Secretaries and Heads of Departments are asked to ensure compliance of these transfers. It has been further directed that those transferred on promotion not complying with transfer order within the next seven days will be reverted to their old posts held before promotion and those not complying with normal transfer will be placed under suspension. The Chief Secretary has asked all the Secretaries and Heads of the Departments to send the compliance report in all cases to his office within seven days from 21.08.2008.
It has come to the notice of the Government that a number of Government employees transferred either on promotion to another place of posting or on usual transfers are avoiding compliance of the transfer orders on one reason or the other, which is not in the best interest of the administration.
One arrested with a haul of explosives
Gangtok, August 21 (IST 18:08): Sikkim police have arrested a Nepal national from Rhenock Bazar under Rhenock police circle area and recovered a haul of explosives and other documents, CDs and micro cassettes from his possession, a senior police officer said today.
The Nepalese national, identified as a Bhudiman Bhujel, was wandering through the streets of the Bazar in a suspicious manner yesterday when the local people officers nabbed him even as his associate, who was later identified as Prakash Adhikari, managed to escape, the Superintendent of Police (SP), East, M S Tuli told here.
The cops took Bhujel to Rhenock police station and searched his belongings and recovered a haul of gelatin rods used for making explosives, diary, literatures on the militant activities in Bhutan and Nepal and a cassette, he said.
The arrested Nepalese national has been booked under the Arms and Explosives Act and the Foreigners Act, Tuli said, adding a manhunt has been launched to nab Bhujel's associate.
An investigation was underway to find out the details of his activities or his alleged involvement in subversive activities in the neighbouring countries, the police official said.
Nathu La border trade gains momentum
Gangtok, August 21 (IST 06:06): : Border trade between India and China through Nathu La has gained momentum, with the country's export turnover in the last month alone indicating a significant growth.
According to figures released by the Sikkim Commerce and Industries Department, the turnover of export from India reporting a figure of Rs 7.20 lakh in July.
The export turnover at Nathu La, which reopened on May 19 this year, for the two till June stood at about Rs eight lakh export turnover. The total export turnover up to now stands at Rs 15.67 lakh.
Textile products like shawls, blankets, utensils and copper items were much sought after by Chinese importers in view of the growing demand for them by the people of the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), Commerce and Industry Department officials said.
Products like vegetable oil, canned food, tea, cigarettes and coffee were also much in demand by Chinese importers, they said.
Expressing satisfaction with the growth of bilateral border trade this year, the officials said that with Beijing Olympics 2008 coming to an end on August 24, the volume of the bilateral border trade was expected to pick up with the larger participation of traders of the two countries.
Nepali language reorganization day observed
Nepali language reorganization day observed
Gangtok, August 20 (IST 21:03): Sikkim Nepali Sahitya Parishad observed 17 th Nepali language reorganization day today. The day is observed to mark the inclusion of the Nepali language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution on 20th August 1992.
A silver jubilee inauguration of a local weekly is also taking placed in the function. A resource paper by Dr. Uday Chettri on contribution of Sikkim towards the development on Nepali language and literature narrated today. Padma Bhusan Sanu Lama was the chief guest of the function. (Photo:Pravin Khaling)
High health spending States unable to improve health indicators: ASSOCHAM
Gangtok, August 20 (IST 19:53): The top ten states with Health Expenditure growing at the rate of 25%, have not been able to improve upon the health performance as indicated by their low ranks in indicators such as infant mortality, death rate, availability of health institutions per million persons, as revealed by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM).
According to ASSOCHAM Eco Pulse (AEP) study on “States Health Expenditure and Performance”, the rising expenditure by the States on Healthcare has not helped them to gain better position with their average ranks remaining in the range of 14-17% on various health indicators.
The study founds that out of the 28 Indian states, Chattisgarh (39.4 %), Uttrakhand (37.8%), Sikkim (26.8 %), Andhra Pradesh (26.7 %) and Orissa (24.9 %) occupied the top five positions respectively as they recorded highest growth on medical and public health expenditure in 2007-08 as against the previous financial year.
“Even as the state government's budget allocation on health care has increased but lack of specialized doctors, medical assistance and non-availability of quality drugs & medicines reaching all sections of the people is acting as an impediment in improving their health indicators”, commented Sajjan Jindal, President, ASSOCHAM.
Ranking of 10 states on various Health Parameters:
.No. |
States |
Medical and Public Health Expenditure |
Infant mortality rate |
Death rates |
Availability of health institutions |
|
|
|
Rank |
Rank |
Rank |
1 |
Chattisgarh |
50,646 |
23 |
24 |
10 |
2 |
Uttrakhand |
34,030 |
13 |
10 |
4 |
3 |
Sikkim |
6,647 |
6 |
5 |
14 |
4 |
Andhra Pradesh |
20,8224 |
17 |
17 |
21 |
5 |
Orissa |
70,165 |
28 |
28 |
9 |
6 |
Meghalaya |
11,640 |
23 |
23 |
26 |
7 |
Assam |
99,696 |
26 |
26 |
19 |
8 |
Karnataka |
1,43,478 |
16 |
16 |
17 |
9 |
Tamil Nadu |
1,80,012 |
9 |
20 |
13 |
10 |
Tripura |
12,531 |
8 |
8 |
8 |
In 2007-08, Chattisgarh tops the table in growth expenditure on medical and public health with Rs5064.6mn in FY' 08 as compared to Rs3634.1mn in the previous fiscal recording a jump of around 40 %. Among the 28 states it disappointed with the scores on basic health indicators. The infant mortality rate of the state is 61 per thousand persons which leads it to occupy 23rd position, similarly it ranks far below at 24th place on death rates health indicator. The state has 722 various health institutions, out of which 633 are ayurvedic dispensaries. On the health parameter regarding availability of health institutions per million persons the state ranks at 10th position.
The second highest growth was recorded by Uttrakhand at 37.8 % in allocation of funds for the health sector with Rs3403mn in 2007-08 as against Rs2467.4mn in the last fiscal. The ranking of the state on infant mortality and death rate is 13th (43 per thousand persons) and 10th (21 per thousand persons) respectively. But it fairs better in terms of availability of health institutions per million persons with occupying 4th rank, with 3,878 health institutions across the state out of which 467 ayurvedic dispensaries cater the medical needs.
The north eastern states of India including Sikkim , Meghalaya , Assam and Tripura also witness a jump of 26.8 %, 24.9 %, 22.7 % and 13.9 % in the allocation of funds for the medical and public health facilities in 2007-08 as against FY'07. But on the health parameters the states are ranked far below. Sikkim has 6,647 health institutions ranking at 14th position on availability of health facilities per million persons, out of the 28 states.
Meghalaya and Assam have 11, 640 and 99,696 respectively number of health institutes with the former occupying 26th rank and latter 19th place regarding the availability of health facilities per million persons; whereas Tripura occupied 8th rank with 12,531 health institutes, out of which 66 are homeopathic dispensaries meeting the health needs of the locals.
Among the 28 state, the mineral rich state of Orissa fairs poorly on health indicators, as it is positioned with last rank on both infant mortality and death rate. But the state recorded a growth of 26.7 % in health expenditure in FY'08 as against FY'07.The state is placed at 8th position in the availability of health facility per million persons, having 1,280 health institutes.
The industrialized South Indian states including Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu also occupied low ranks on basic health parameters despite the high expenditure by their state governments on medical and public health facilities.
Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka witnesses a growth of 26.7 % and 18.3 % respectively on health expenditure in 2007-08 with AP having 1, 168 health institutions ranks at 21st position and the latter with 11,32 health institutions is placed at 17th position in terms of availability of health facilities per million persons. On the parameters of infant mortality and death rate AP is placed at 17th position whereas Karnataka was ranked at 16th position among the 28 states.
Tamil Nadu's expenditure on medical and public health amounted to Rs 18001.2mn recording a growth of 16.9 % in FY'08 as against FY'07. The state's death rate is 7.5 per thousand persons ranking at 20th position and on infant mortality it is placed at 9th position with 16.2 per thousand persons.
Survey on by NSSO asked for cooperation from general public in Sikkim
Gangtok, August 20 (IST 19:53): National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO), Government of India, Gangtok is conducting sample surveys to get detailed information on "Domestic Tourism", "Housing Conditions" and "Urban Slums" on its 65th Round from July, 2008. This month the investigators from the Field Operation Division, Gangtok are collecting socio-economic data at Tokdey (13-24th August ), Namphok (20-30thAugust), Tarku (19-28th August), Gangtok Block-20 (20-29th August), Deythang (18-28th August), Yangthang (18-29th August) and Srinagi (18-27th August, 2008 ).
The organization has asked for cooperation from general public in getting the right and proper information.
Sadbhavana Diwas observed
Gangtok, August 20 (IST 19:53): The “Sadbhavana Diwas” which also marks the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister of India, Late. Rajiv Gandhi was observed on 20th August, at Tashiling Secretariate Gangtok. The Chief Secretary N.D. Chingapa administered the Sadbhavana Pledge to all the Government employees present at the Tashiling Secretariate Complex.
Similarly, Director IPR Department Jemima Pradhan also administered the Pledge to the officers and staff of IPR Department.
A High level meeting of North East Regional Institute of Education organized
Gangtok, August 20 (IST 19:53): The North East Regional Institute of Education sponsored by North Eastern Council organized a high level meeting at the Conference Hall of the HRD Departmet on 20th August, 2008. The meeting was attended by P.P Shrivastava (IAS) Member-NEC, S. Sathyam (IAS Rtd) Prof. G. Ravindra, Joint Director-NCERT ( New Delhi ), Dr. Poonam Agarwal, Joint Director (NCERT) Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), Prof. D.S. Bhattacharjee, Secretary, Human Resources Development Department K.T. Chamkapa, Regional Director, IGNOU, Directors of HRDD and other officers.
Secretary HRD Department, delivering the welcome address thanked P.P. Shrivastave for choosing Sikkim as the venue for this meeting and said that, this will definitely help and encourage the HRDD officials to learn more about the schemes and programme. He also apprised the gathering on some of the activities undertaken by the Human Resource Development Department on teachers training, SCERT and Vocational Education.
He also informed that altogether there are 765 Government schools in the state which has a total enrolment of 1, 27,726 students. The breakup of the same is 61,973 boys and 65,787 girls which indicate that there are no gender inequalities in the state.
Chamkapa further mentioned that the HRD Department has been organizing training programmes for teachers and altogether, the Department has 69:21% trained teachers. With regards to SCERT, the Department is in the process of constituting the same. Process of establishing the DIET in three districts is presently under consideration of the State Government, he said.
Further, he said that presently only one DIET is functional in the East District. The Department is still continuing vocational educational programme at +2 stages in spite of the discontinuation of the grant-in-aid by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, New Delhi during this 11th five year plan.
During the discussion on SCERT/SIE, Member NEC P.P. Shrivastava said that efficiency of the Governing System in Sikkim is quite evident from the infrastructural development in the state. He pointed out that Sikkim has done a commendable job in every sector including education. The foundation of a better tomorrow can be laid only by Human infrastructure development and Sikkim is heading in the right direction, he stated.
Srivastava also said that School Education starts at the elementary level and becomes a part of a child's character. NEC will be emphasizing more on primary education through child friendly methods, education relating to environment, surroundings, skill based through vocation etc. Information Technology, reaching out to educated unemployed youths, School dropouts, training of science and mathematics teachers are some of the issues he discussed.
S. Sathyam IAS (Rtd) deliberating on the revamping of SIE said that training of teachers has been a long pending problem in most of the states and time has come whereby a drastic measure is required. However, Sikkim having 70% of trained teachers deserves compliment he said. Attention is now required to clear the 30% back log and quality up gradation. Training is a continuing activity and SCERT has a major role to play in all stages of school education.
Other highlighting of the meeting included power point presentation on education scenario in Sikkim and DIETS/Training etc by Director-cum-SPD and Joint Director Training.
Sikkimese can tolerate and face hurdles for greater cause of Gorkhaland: KV Subba
Gangtok, August 19 (IST 19:42): Today on 19 th August, the All Sikkim Government Employees Association was doing Maha Yagya Puja in Sarasati Mandir at 5 th Mile Tadong Gangtok in favor of Gorkhaland demand to Darjeeling hill which was also attended by Kharga Vikram Subba President of Gorkha Janamukti Karmachari Morcha (GJKM), Kalimpong Unit.
During Kharga Vikram Subba's visit in Gangtok the Haalkhabar.com takes his interview. Questions and answers are as follows:
HK: Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) leaders declared that they would not allow GNLF to take Dhanmaya Ghising's body to her homeland Darjeeling under any circumstances. This inhuman act was fully supported by the GJM top brass as it found nothing wrong with what their supporters had done. GJM not respect a senior citizen Dhanmaya's departed soul. What type of society you are establishing for future Gorkhaland?
KVS: This incident is not done by GJM. People of Darjeeling hill did not want Ghising in Darjeeling for his past doings. Anguished public did not allow taking her body to hill.
HK: It means GJM have no control on own party workers?
KVS: We have to respect public perception.
HK: GJM always claims that their movement is totally in democratic manner. But party supporters along with leader captured houses of GNLF leaders explaining that those houses are build by corruption. GJM played role as judiciary. Is this the definition of Democracy?
KVS: This will balance on political settlement.
HK: People of Sikkim supporting Gorkhaland movement led by your party. Blockade of national highway NH 31A by your party cut off Sikkim with rest of the country. Normal life in Sikkim often paralyzed for the blocked. Are you giving abnormal life for your Sikkimese supporters as gift?
KVS: We appreciate support from Sikkim . We believe, Sikkimese can tolerate and face this type of hurdles for greater cause of Gorkhaland.
HK: Darjeeling vehicles to have GL number plates after GJM declaration of non co-operation. For Bengal police and rest of the country, to bear GL number plates is crime. But Bengal police is not taking any actions against you. Do you have any political conspiracy and hobnobbing with West Bengal Government? Why Bengal police is ignoring this serious crime?
KVS: This is weakness of Bengal police. We are in our strategic action. Bengal police are free to take action against us. GJM is not conspirator.
HK: Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangha (BGP) is also working for separate state for Gorkhas. BGP is committed for Gorkhaland and proved their commitment when they attend Parliamentary Standing Committee on extension of 6 th schedule to DGHC area by demanding Gorkhaland. Why GJM not coordinating with BGP?
KVS: Yes its accepted wisdom. GJM is thinking on this line.
Volleyball Tournament planned for the upcoming Pang-lhab-sol Celebration at Rabongla
Gangtok, August 19 (IST 19:42): The Panglhabsol Celebration at Rabong turns twenty five this year. The Government of Sikkim has declared it a STATE FUNCTION with the Chief Minister as the Chief Patron of the Celebration Committee. The Celebration Committee has been planning to commemorate the occasion by organizing the festival in a grand scale. There will be various cultural programmes, sporting events, exhibitions, rural fair and above all the Pangtoed Chaam (Warrior Dance) lined up for the same.
The Sports Division of the committee in coordination with the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs, Govt.of Sikkim will be organizing a National Level Volleyball Tournament for the first time in Sikkim to mark the occasion. The national level tournament is scheduled to begin from the 10th of September 2008. The leading teams from states like Punjab, Haryana , Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, West Bengal, Assam, Maharashtra etc have already confirmed their participation in the Tournament .A state team of Sikkim will also be participating in the tournament. The Sikkim team shall be constituted from among the best players participating in the intra state tournament which will commence from 1st of September 2008 at Rabong as a part of the Celebration.
Medical camp for physically challenged persons
Gangtok, August 19 (IST 19:42): Disability camp was organized by Social, Justice, Empowerment & Welfare Department at Khamdong on Monday at the premises of Khamdong BAC in which more than 70 physically challenged persons were medically examined. Disabled cards were also distributed to 40 persons, 6(six) nos. hearing aids and 2 (two) nos. wheel chairs were also distributed. The people from different adjoining villages covering mainly two constituencies Khamdong and Martam attended the camp.
Eye Surgeon Dr. B.P Dhakal, ENT Dr. Semsey Bhutia, Psychiatrist Dr. N. Thapa from STNM Hospital attended the camp.
Privatisation of the CIC may be recipe for conflict
Gangtok, August 18 (IST 19:28): Community Information Centre (CIC) is a major initiative from the government of India to utilize IT (Information Technology) as a cutting edge tool of development for the North Eastern States including Sikkim. The CICs will not only facilitate the region to avail the benefits of global connectivity through Internet, but will also bring the region closer, emotionally, to the national mainstream by enabling more efficient and faster information flow amongst the people, State Governments and the Central Government.
The State government has decided to invite private companies to run CIC centers after completion of five year term. But state government's policy of privatization is further compounding the problem. Five year term has finished on 11 th February 2007. IT department of Sikkim managed salary after completing term from others fund for 90 staff of CIC. The recent problem of staff not getting the payments is creating doubts on their future.
One important argument advanced by Raju Pradhan, President of All Sikkim CIC operators Association in opposing the privatisation is that the company is likely to serve only those who can pay (the high) tariffs, but the government has to think of all including those who have right to learn computers but can not afford. It will weakens community ability to assert collective interests; decreases citizen participation in government policy and programs, he said.
The CICs will not only facilitate the region to avail the benefits of global connectivity through Internet, but will also bring the region closer, emotionally, to the national mainstream by enabling more efficient and faster information flow amongst the people, State Governments and the Central Government. But privatization of the centers needs to earn and make profit, which is not possible in remote villages. In future Centers will shut and the mission of CIC will also forfeit, Obed Luxum, General Secretary of the Association said.
Mahayagya in Sikkim to support Gorkhaland
Gangtok, August 18 (IST 19:28): All Sikkim Govt. Employees Association (ASGEA) is conducting a two days Mahayagya for fulfillment of the aspiration of Govt. Employees brethren of Darjeeling District and realization of the dream of Gorkhaland on Tuesday and Wednesday. The puja ceremony shall be held at Saraswati Mandir, 6 th Mile Tadong, Gangtok. The Mahayagya is being conducted to impart moral support to Gorkha Janamukti Karmachari Morcha (GJKM) from their counterpart of Sikkim . Kharga Vikram Subba, president of GJKM, Kalimpong is expected to attend the ceremony on Tuesday, Nar Singh Rai, Chairman ASGEA informed.
4th Pay Commission formed for Sikkim govt employees
Gangtok, August 18 (IST 19:28): In a pre-poll bonanza for its employees, the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front government today constituted the Fourth Pay Commission to examine the pay structure of different state services and make appropriate recommendation in this regard.
The two-member pay panel, to be headed by retired chief justice of Sikkim High Court, R K Patra, who is also the Chairman of Law Commission of Sikkim, and the State Bank of Sikkim managing director and senior IAS official Bijoy Pratap Pradhan as member secretary, will submit its report to the state government by March 31, 2009, according to an official notification. The notification was issued by the Special Secretary, Department of Personnel, C L Sharma. Nar Singh Rai, president All Sikkim Govt. Employees Association (ASGEA) welcomes the pay revision of the employees.
Solidarity for the Gorkha Homeland in the time of identity hardship
Gangtok, August 17 (IST 16:38): A meeting represented by all political parties of Sikkim passed a resolution today to urge the Sikkim government to introduce a bill for Separate State for Indian Gorkhas, without which is affecting Indian Gorkha families nationwide for their identity. The meeting was organized by Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangha (BGP), a non political national organization of Indian Gorkhas here today. BGP will collect signatures of all Member of Parliament is another resolution of the meeting.
Speech marks (August 18 IST 07:48) BGP and its mission is not conflicted subject in Sikkim . We can whole heartedly support its mission. Kiran Chettri, SDF Party BGP should create bridge for Gorkhas of West Bengal and Sikkim . No one Sikkimese is secure though they have Sikkim Subject. G M Rai, SGPP Sikkim is concentrated power area for Gorkhas in national scenario. Sikkim should take more responsibility. Minorities of Sikkim will not oppose BGP issue. Jgmey N Kazi, Sikkim United Collective leadership is only the way. R C Poudyal, Rising Sun The word Nepali and Gorkha is not the subject of confliction. If confliction on this arises, that will only for the lack of knowledge. BGP should abolish this confliction. K N Upreti, Joint Action Committee , Sikkim We must create a solidarity forum for Gorkhaland. Step taken by O P Bhandari from Sikkim on NH 31 A is the historical mistake on the way to Gorkhaland. Bharat Basnet, SAFE We must give emphasis to unity in purpose for Gorkhas. C K Shrestha |
Addressing the meeting C K Shrestha, General Secretary of BGP said that Each and every step, Indian Gorkha's struggle to clarify their identity in India is painful when this community's contribution towards India 's freedom fight is in history. After contributing so much for the country, why Gorkha people go on explaining about their identity everyday? He asked.
To provide equal status for Gorkhas in the country, BGP is struggling today, Shrestha said.
Amongst the seven point programme of BGP creation of a separate state for Gorkhas of India was the main agenda today.
We are not in electoral politics, he declared. Explaining coalition politics in national scenario and its weakness he stressed to precede Separate state issue at this juncture. Only for others as north-eastern states of the country the term main-stream is existing, he said.
He stressed to nationalize the demand of separate state at meeting. With Telangana, Vidharva, Bundel Khand and Hareet Pradesh BGP going to floor the Federation of Smaller States which will include other existing smaller states later on, he informed.
Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee president Nar Bahadur Bhandari welcomes the steps of BGP. Not to divide Gorkhas in principal he urged for national unification of all political and social parties and organizations. He also requests all political parties to provide full support to BGP.
“It is important that the state government show its solidarity with the Gorkha people in this time of identity hardship,” Bhandari said.
Welcoming the steps for federation by BGP and other four organization, Bharatiya Janata party state unit president H. R. Pradhan suggest Parisangha for documentation on various aspect of demand.
Kiran Chettri, publicity secretary of Sikkim Democratic Front, Sikkim Gorkha Prajatantric Party president G M Rai, Sikkim United president Jigmey N Kazi, Rising Sun president R C Poudyal, Joint Action Committee chief convennor K N Upreti and Bharat Basnet form Safe are the other speakers of the meeting. (Photo: Pravin Khaling)
Not allowing body of Dhanmaya by GJM establishing Nazi system
 |
Siliguri, August 16 (IST 20:24): Dhanmaya Gurung Ghising, spouse of struggling Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF) supremo Subash Ghising, died here today.
Mrs. Ghising was suffering from different ailments for a long time, died while being taken to hospital from a guesthouse in the outskirts of the town at around 8:30 am, IG (North Bengal) K L Tamta informed.
The GNLF president, who had been forced to leave his home in Darjeeling town following violent protests by Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) activists on July 25, had been staying at the Teesta Project bungalow of the irrigation department at Tinbati More here for the past 20 days.
Mrs. Ghising had accompanied with Subash Ghising along with other family members from the hill resort to the plains on the face of violent GJM protests.
When her dead body was on the way to Darjeeling for ritual funeral, GJM supporters returned her body to back to Siliguri from Rohini. They did not allow entering her body in Darjeeling , officials sources informed.
Not allowing her body in native Land Darjeeling by GJM establishing Nazi system in this era, a political observer of Darjeeling said.
62nd Independence Day of India celebrated in Sikkim
Local employment bill, 2008 for the safeguard of local people: Chamling
Gangtok, August 15 (IST 08:23 / Anoop Rai): Along with the rest of the country, the 62nd Independence Day of India was celebrated with fun and gaiety, amidst a large crowd turn out in all the districts, civil sub-divisions and administrative units of Sikkim.
In the state capital, Gangtok, the celebrations began with the festive mood. The official ceremony was held at the Palzor Stadium where the Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling unfurled the national flag and took the salute of the marching contingents which comprises of various participants.
In his ceremonial address, Chamling recalled the sacrifices made by the great personalities of India who fought to achieve independence from foreign rule. Speaking in the programme, Chamling said his government has passed local employment bill, 2008 for the safeguard of local people." my government has passed the bill in assembly so that the private industries set up in the state should give the employment to local people 80 per cent." he said.
Chaming further said the government has provided the people of state every thing from employment opportunity to capacity building programme. He said Directorate of capacity building has been set up by the government which is a first of its kind in the country through which the educated youths would be trained for their suitable profession.” Even after it if the people became unemployed and poor that is his fault not of government", he said.
Speaking on social justice, he said women in the state are no more played second fiddle. They are empowered with right to property act. Besides, the government has provided 40 per cent reservation in panchayat and 30 per cent in government job.
On the day Akshay Sachdeva, DIG range, Mani Kumar Pradhan, P. Wangdi, Jyotsna Subba, Deepa Basnet , Dr. P. Sentil Kumar and Thendup Lepcha were awarded for the meritous service.
Legendary Indian footballer Shyam Thapa felicitated
Rangpoo, August 15 (IST 06:02): Shyam Thapa, legendary Indian footballer, today felicitated by the 62nd Independence Day Celebration Committee, Rangpoo, East Sikkim for his lifetime achievement in Indian football. The Agriculture Minister, Somnath Poudyal felicitated him and offered ‘Angabastra' (Shawl). James Michel Lee from USA and Khare Basnet from Bhutan on football, Late Narayan Pradhan and Jonabeel on Education, Shanti Rai on bravery, Ganga Devi Sharma, Kalyan Majumdar and B B Subba on social service, Til Bahadur Basnet and Duga Chettri on progressive farming and Ramesh Chettri and Priyanka Chettri are also felicitated by the committee.
Speaking in the programme Agriculture Minister conveyed the message of Chief Minister of the state. Minister Poudyal also said that in the Agriculture sector, continued efforts will be made to increase production of flowers in Sikkim . Government will also explore the state's potential in organic farming. Highest priority will be given to horticulture and food processing enterprises for generating employment in the rural areas. ( Photo: B P Bajgain)
No dream on India as World Cup Soccer team: Shyam Thapa
Gangtok, August 15 (IST 08:23): Former Indian international footballer Shyam Thapa hurt to witness the falling standards of Indian football. Thapa, who is here on his felicitation programme at Rangpoo, East Sikkim , interviewed by haalkhabar.com where he shows his dissatisfaction on the system of Indian sports.
HK: Did you see any international scope in football for future Sikkim ?
ST: Sikkim gave role model for Indian football as Bhaichung Bhutia. State government should work-out better policy to develop football. Our coach must be professional. As Sikkim in football, Indian expectation is high. Future is good if trainer do professionally.
HK: Recently India wins AFC Cup. But entire country is not ahead to cheer-up as seen in Cricket. Your comment on this Mr. Thapa….
ST: Because of popularity. Sports Ministry must do something to construct football in India .
HK: When will be India stand as World Cup Soccer Team?
ST: At present I have no dream on this line. Because, India is not serious on football professionally till yet. India should start football from basic. ( Photo: B P Bajgain)
We will respect Supreme Court order: Bimal Gurung
Gangtok, August 15 (IST 08:23 / Anoop Rai): Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) President, Mr. Bimal Gurung, sees the separation of CPI(M) from the UPA government as a "good sign" for Gorkhaland movement. "At this juncture", he says "we need more support of Sikkim government", adding, "Sikkim Chief Minister Mr. Pawan Chamling, can help us a lot as the only Nepali speaking national leader".
In the first ever meeting with a team of Sikkim journalists at GJM party office Patleybash in Darjeeling on August 12, Mr. Gurung said he wants to make a "renewed effort" to further consolidate the relation between Darjeeling and Sikkim . Mr. Ratan Gurung, Sikkim representative of Himalay Darpan, a Siliguri based Nepali Daily, arranged the meeting which was very much cordial and GJM chief, accompanied by his central committee member Mr. Amar Lama, was extremely frank in answering several questions by the visiting journalists.
Asked if he thinks Sikkim Chief Minister is "anti-Gorkhaland", the GJM leader vehemently denied having ever said so. On the contrary, he mentioned a number of instances of the Chief Minister being sympathetic for a Gorkhaland. He said, "Mr. Chamling was the first person to raise the Gorkhaland issue even before GJM took it up, for which the people of Darjeeling have great respect for him".
However, Mr. Gurung made no secret of his "disappointment" on two counts: one, Sikkim going to Supreme Court on NH 31 A blockade issue; and, two, some reported remarks of the Chief Minister regarding signature campaign by GJM members in Gangtok on 7th August. "Those remarks have hurt the sentiment of the hills people", he said, adding, "Our people will be happy if he (Chief Minister) says even a few words to remove the misgivings".
Regarding highway blockade he said "we have no intention to harass the people of Sikkim ; but as National Highway falls under our Gorkhaland map, it is closed during a bandh. He hastened to add, "We will respect Supreme Court order and work out some alternative" way to agitate. About the tripartite talk to be held in Delhi he said, "If Gorkhaland is not in the agenda, we will walk out".
When a journalist pointed out that Prashant Tamang episode had cemented the relation between two neighbours and that both sides have to take forward the relation by a regular contact between the top leaders, Mr. Gurung seemed to be receptive to the suggestion.
Healthy Sex Life Can Extend Into 80s
Gangtok, August 15 (IST 06:02): As per Health Day News a satisfying sex life is possible as you age into your 70s and 80s, new research suggests.
Many older are apparently taking advantage of that fact, because 68 percent of men between 57 and 85 reported having sex last year, as did 42 percent of women, according to the study's lead author, Edward Laumann, the George Herbert Mead Distinguished Service Professor of Sociology at the University of Chicago . And, Laumann added, more older women might have wanted to have sex, but there just aren't as many available older men for them to partner with.
"Healthy people can have reasonably satisfying sexual health for most of their lives," said Laumann. "There are challenges that arise, but it's not aging, per se, that's the issue. A decline in sexuality may be the canary in the mineshaft. Sexual problems may manifest before diabetes and high blood pressure."
The study findings were published in the current issue of The Journal of Sexual Medicine.
"It's definitely whether you're elderly or "wellderly" that makes a difference," said Dr. Virginia Sadock, director of the program of human sexuality at New York University Langone Medical Center in New York City . "Illness and medications make a difference in sex lives."
Other factors that can get in the way of a satisfying sex life later in life include having had a sexually transmitted disease, and having physical problems, mental health issues or relationship difficulties, the study found.
The study included information from 1,550 women and 1,455 men between the ages of 57 and 85. All participated in the National Social Life, Health and Aging Project.
Some highlights of the study include:
Having had a sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the past nearly quadrupled a woman's odds of having sexual pain, and it tripled the odds a woman would have lubrication problems. In men, a history of STD was associated with five times the risk of finding sex unpleasant. In both older men and women, a common factor in sexual dysfunction and a decreased interest in sex was urinary tract syndrome. Both older men and older women reported that mental health issues affected their interest in sex. For men, relationship troubles also contributed to a lack of interest in sex and the inability to achieve orgasm. Drinking alcohol daily improved a women interest in and pleasure from sex. Alcohol didn't have that effect on men. Hispanic women were twice as likely to report pain during intercourse. Black men were twice as likely to say they weren't interested in sex and were more likely to report climaxing early.
"Sexual health is a harbinger of physical and mental health, and it plays an important role in the quality of life," Laumann said. "Older people don't just drop out of the picture. In general, if you're healthy, you can be sexually active."
Sadock added: "Don't assume that because you're older, your sex life has to be gone. If you're healthy and connected to someone, and you've had a pretty good sex life when you're younger, then you can have a pretty good sex life in old age."
Sources of this story compiled by Serena Gordon are Edward Laumann, Ph.D., George Herbert Mead Distinguished Service Professor of Sociology, the University of Chicago; Virginia A. Sadock, M.D., psychiatrist and director of the program of human sexuality, New York University Langone Medical Center, and professor, NYU School of Medicine, New York City; August 2008,The Journal of Sexual Medicine
Centre to regulate lottery: WB, Nagaland and Sikkim pleaded
Mumbai, August 14 (IST 16:05): Till last month, the Union home ministry had wanted to ban the many lotteries being run in India , but pressure from various states forced the central government to allow the lotteries. However, the Centre will soon be announcing regulations that the lotteries must follow.
The commissioner for lotteries, Maharashtra , Seema Vyas said that the Union home department will soon have a meeting to allow lotteries that are regulated. In a meeting held last month over the issue of banning lotteries, Vyas strongly defended the Mahrashtra government's stand to allow lotteries.
Sources in the state government said that the lottery commissioners of several states, like West Bengal, Nagaland and Sikkim , pleaded with the Centre that lotteries be allowed to continue.
Natural calamities grant to the Sikkim and Puducherry
New Delhi: August 14 (IST 16:05): The Union Cabinet Thursday gave its approval for grant of Additional Central Assistance to the Government of Sikkim and Union Territory of Punducherry for long-term reconstruction of the infrastructure damaged during floods of the 2005 season at a total cost of Rs.115.71 crore during 2008-09 with a grant component of Rs.84.87 crore and a loan component of Rs.30.84 crore.
This will enable the Government of Sikkim and Govt. of Puducherry to undertake long-term reconstruction of the damaged infrastructure.
We are every cordial with Sikkim : Bimal Gurung
Gangtok, August 13 (IST 19:55): ‘The misunderstanding over the frequent blockades on NH 31-A could have been easily resolved through talks. However, the issue has taken another proportion after OP Bhandari filed the PIL in the Supreme Court. This could have been sorted out amicably through talks,' GJM president Bimal Gurung was referring to the PIL filed by OP Bhandari against the bandhs in response to which a division bench of the apex court has asked the Centre to ensure that the highway remained free for traffic.
Fight that the GJM has undertaken today for a separate state of Gorkhaland is also for the Gorkhas of Sikkim, Gurung told.
‘We have to examine where we are going off beam. We are every cordial with Sikkim . We have no meaning of putting Sikkim in any kind of difficult situations or problems. There is no meaning that the people of Sikkim to die of starvation. We have so many marital relations with Sikkim . But the way Sikkim is thinking in narrow, this should not happen,' he said during an informal interaction with media persons of Sikkim at the Morcha office in Patlebas in Darjeeling Tuesday.
Sikkim is not exempted from Wealth Tax: BJP
Gangtok, August 13 (IST 19:55): “Wealth Tax is chargeable @ 1% of net wealth exceeding Rs. 15, 00, 000. There is no gift tax liability as gift tax has been abolished. Property tax is not a direct tax since it is a tax levied by local municipal authorities on property,” said Vandana Ramachandran of the Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue, Central Board of Direct Taxes, Government of India in a reply when the BJP sought information whether Sikkimese individuals are exempted from Wealth Tax, Gift Tax, Property Tax or not. Informing media through a press release, the Sikkim State Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has said that the Sikkimese individuals are not exempted from Wealth Tax.
“This is nothing but imposition of tax which Sikkimese had never paid earlier. Let the SDF party and the SDF Government explain the fall out of this to the people of Sikkim ,” the release added.
State government ignored vital interests of LT communities: Bhandari
Gangtok, August 11 (IST 20:00 / Roshan Rai): Sikkim Pradesh Congress Chief Nar Bahadur Bhandari declared that the elections to the Sikkim Legislative Assembly would be held in time under the New Delimitation of Constituencies. Citing the directives of the Election Commission of India, Bhandari said that the pro-Government officials will not be posted in the election process to ensure free and fair elections. He further condemned the duplicitous design of the SDF Government towards Limbu, Tamang and business communities by not providing and any Constituencies for them to contest the Assembly elections thereby depriving them of their political rights. The members of the State Delimitation Committee appointed by the State Government ignored such vital interests of these communities, he said.
Bhandari was addressing a public meeting at Malbasey under Soreng-Chakung Constituency of West Sikkim Sunday. Bhandari emphasized that the Congress party is determined to form Government in Sikkim . Commenting on set up hydro-electric power projects in Sikkim established through bank loans, he cautions that the onus of repayment of the loan amount will lie with the concerned companies and the people associated with facilitating such loans and the Government will not be responsible the same. Expressing his concern on the deteriorating moral values in the State, he said that strict legislations to curb gambling, casino, drug peddling, etc. will be brought in. Such disruptive activities will be replaced by constructive means of amusement or entertainment. Bhandari promised that education will be made totally free up to the college level and that arrangements will be made for sending the prospective children to the foreign countries for both technical and non-technical higher studies.
Shri Sanjay Bapna, Secretary, AICC also addressed the meeting. (Photo: Roshan Rai)
SMPS organized awareness program on HIV/AIDS
Gangtok, August 11 (IST 07:13): B. P. Bajgain, Editor haalkhabar dot com says present method of AIDS awareness will only inspire children to go in for free sex using a condom.
He was speaking as resource person during the AIDS awareness campaign organized by Sikkim Mahila Patrakar Sangha (SMPS) at Bardang, East Sikkim today.
'This is a very dangerous method and I am totally against the idea of campaining condom for AIDS awareness. By giving condom knowledge for more than one sex partner, the government is trying to tell the youth that you wear a condom and have sex with many partner, you will never get infected with AIDS', Bajgain said.
Aren't we corrupting the mind of our young generation? I want to tell the government authorities that by the method of AIDS awareness, they are damaging the children and also the country,” he commented.
Stressing on moral education he said India has a rich spiritual heritage but Moral values and ethical values are not taught in the schools. If we do something in this line it will give new form of ideal society with moral principal. Mind of high moral value can fight with Aids and other evil forces mentally which is better than physically, he said.
Talking on student with mobile full of MMS, parents who never care of Guardians meeting teacher of Bardang school Jaishree Chettri said, 'if we studied in-depth with students, we can understand the behavioral, social and programme-related aspects which make those students more vulnerable to HIV/AIDS.'
Addressing the program a trade union leader of SDF party B. B. Chettri stressed to establish good social values in our day-to-day life.
Other speakers were writer M. S. Khan, health department personal B. K. Giri, Panchayat President Lok Maya Silal, and Usha Tamang. Radha Pradhan, president of SMPS delivered the welcome speech and Uday Chandra Khanal, teacher of Khecheopalri School , west Sikkim was conducted the program. The program was very much impressed and informative. The participants expressed that they came to know about AIDS and need of social reforms to eradicate AIDS. On the whole the program was successful.
Kaiser-i-Hind reached Mysoor from Sikkim
Gangtok, August 11 (IST 07:13): The Kaiser-i-Hind (Teinopalpus imperialis) is a rare species of swallowtail butterfly native to Sikkim found only above the attitude of 10,000 feet reached Mysoor recently as subject matter of Nature Awareness, A programme conducted at De Pual International School at Yelwala here by Daniel Sukumar, a nature educator of the Club for Awareness and Nature Study (CAN), Bangalore
In a second session of the programme, Vivek Sarkar from West Bengal focused on Histogenetic Studies of Butterflies.
The colourful slide show explained the students the role of butterflies in pollination. He said that there are 1,500 varieties of Butterflies in India and the largest was Alexandria Birdwing. In India , it is the Southern Birdwing which has a wing span of (190 mm) and the smallest butterfly in India is the Grass Jewel which is (15 mm) smaller than a 25 paise coin.
The students were also taught the knowledge of poisonous butterflies, rarest butterfly known as Kaiser i Hind. (Photo source: wikipedia)
Congress confident of forming next Government in Sikkim
Gangtok, August 10 (IST 06:28): AICC Secretary and in-Charge of Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee, Sanjay Bapta today said the Congress will form the government in Sikkim in the state Assembly elections next year. Congress definitely will form the government in Sikkim this time, said Bapta who is on a two-day visit in the state to oversee the state Congress preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections. The AICC secretary will be sounding the state Congresss election war cry by leading the party's public meeting at Soreng, West Sikkim tomorrow along with the state Congress president Nar Bahadur Bhandari. We will expose the corrupt officials who have mismanaged the Central funds and failed in reaching the Centres developmental programmes to the people, said Bapta in a press meet. He accused the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) party of being involved in ''undemocratic'' activities. However Bapta failed to explain about the regular clean chits given by Congress Central leaders to the SDF government.
An upbeat state Congress President Bhandari said the party will form the next government in Sikkim on its own and without any alliance. People of Sikkim will not tolerate the corrupt, communal and caste based politics of the SDF leadership, he said.( Photo: Pravin Khaling)
Come to me to sort out the problem : We have nonentity to say on Gorkhaland - Chamling
Gangtok, August 09 (IST 06:25): Chief Minister Pawan Chamling called for an open and amicable discussion with the members of the Affected Citizens of Teesta (ACT) not to be misguided by people from within and outside Sikkim who have vested interests in misleading and misinforming ever peace loving people of lepcha community of Sikkim over the hydel project issue. 'Call off the hunger strike and come to me and then we will sort out the problem', he said. He emphasized that development shall take place at any cost and hydel projects will not be scraped if it meant fulfilling the wishes of some vested interests.
Chamling was addressing a congregation of Lepchas at the Tendong Lho Rum Faat celebrations held here at the Sikkim Government College auditorium today.
Speaking on the GJM-imposed bandh of the National Highway 31A after short clash between Sikkim police and signature campaigner of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) on Thursday 'signature campaign for a separate state of Gorkhaland, which was carried out by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) in Sikkim does not make sense at all in the State and should instead be carried out in Darjeeling and other parts of the country', he said.
'The Gorkhaland demand is purely a matter between the West Bengal Government and the Central Government. We have nonentity to say on this and we should not be harassed on this issue,' he added.
IED blast at New Jalpaiguri, three children injured
Siliguri, August 08 (IST 20: 15): Three children, all in the age group of 10-12 years, were injured today following a improvised explosive device (IED) blast at Santipara near New Jalpaiguri police outpost of West Bengal, police said.
The blast took place on the Jorapani riverbank at Shantipara when the children were fishing and tried to open one of the IEDs by flinging the container on the ground. They had found the containers abandoned at the site.
The explosion occurred around 11.20 a.m.
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Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee President and former Chief Minister of Sikkim Nar Bahadur Bhandari (Left) and O T Lepcha, Rajya Sabha M. P. of the State (Right) signing their name on the map of Gorkhaland. Police picked up campaigners along with poster (Middle). Photo: Pravin Khaling |
Land plea on Gorkha lips, banner
Gangtok, August 07 (IST 21:00): The Gorkha Jana Mukti Morcha today ran a signature campaign here to garner support for their demand of a separate Gorkhaland.
The signature campaign at Titanic Park , which began at 12:20pm, SI Samir Padhan suddenly came and picked up campaigners along with poster forcibly. “If you want Gorkhaland, go and claim where you want, don't act drama in Sikkim ...” SI Pradhan told campaigners. Following the incident Gorkhaland supporter blocked NH 31-A outside Sikkim for an hour and under pressure police confer with campaigners and permit them to operate signature campaign again.
“The demand for a Gorkhaland dates back to 1907, when the Gorkhas petitioned the British rulers. This demand was repeated in 1917, too, by the Hill Men's Association. Even in free India , this demand has remained unfulfilled,” said the convener of the signature campaign cell of the morcha.
Gorkha people of India want to create a separate state including Darjeeling , Terai and the Dooars, including Siliguri city which never belonged to Bengal on historical grounds,” he said.
Later on he also made request to media person not to made news on police incident for the better relationship of Sikkim and Darjeeling .
MayFair: property in Gangtok has incurred an investment of about Rs 60 crore
Gangtok, August 07 (IST 07:22): MayFair Group of Hotels will launch a new property in Gangtok, titled MayFair Gangtok Spa and Resort in December, 2008. The property, which will be built on 48 acres will host 64 rooms comprising villas with private pools, heritage cottages, and bamboo cottages. In addition to the outdoor heated swimming pool and the indoor pool at the Spa, each suite will have its own private dip pool. The hotel will offer indoor conferencing facilities with a capacity of 200 guests. “Along with the indoor conferencing, the property will also offer outdoor conferencing facilities, which is a unique feature in this region,” said Bjorn Noel DeNeise, General Manager, MayFair Gangtok. The property will also offer spa and casino options. “The tourism department of Sikkim is open to giving licenses for Casinos and we will be applying for the license soon. The property in Gangtok has incurred an investment of about Rs 60 crore so far. In addition to this, MayFair Group of Hotels will also launch a convention center in Bhubaneshwar. The centre which has earmarked an investment of Rs 15 crore is expected to start operations by the end of this year and will be located opposite their MayFair Lagoon property. In order to cater to the MICE segment, the convention centre will host about 1,000 people. It will house a banquet hall accommodating 60-800 people, and a conference room for 50 people. The property will also have about 20 rooms.
The MayFair Group of Hotels has expansions plans of starting properties at Cuttack , Chilika Lake , Kalimpong and Paradeep among others by 2010. The hotel company currently has hotels in Bhubaneshwar and Puri in Orissa, Rourkela and Darjeeling (a heritage property with hotel rooms named as per the history of the region). “The property in Bhubaneshwar will see an addition of 27 more Executive cottages to be commissioned by October this year and the property in Rourkela will see an addition of seven Executive rooms by November 2008,” said Sanjay Bhargava, Vice President Operations, MayFair Group of Hotels. The Group started 25 years ago with a restaurant named Tandoor in Rourkela and further ventured into the hotel business.
POWERGRID forms JV to evacuate 1200MW power from Sikkim
Gangtok, August 06 (IST 21:24): Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd. (POWERGRID) has entered into a Shareholder's Agreement with Teesta Urja Ltd to form a Joint Venture Company named “Teestavalley Power Transmission Limited”. The Company will develop associated transmission system for evacuation of power from 1200 MW Teesta-III Hydro Electric Project (HEP) being developed in Sikkim by Teesta Urja Ltd. The project, to be built at an estimated cost of Rs. 708 crore, comprises of construction of (i) 400 kV D/C Teesta – Mangan Transmission line (Approx. length 10 kms) and (ii) 400 kV D/C Mangan-Kishanganj Transmission Line (Approx. length 180 kms). The project is scheduled for completion by September, 2011. POWERGRID and Teesta Urja will have 26% and 74% stake respectively in the Joint Venture Company.
The agreement was signed by Shri V.M. Kaul, Executive Director (PI & BDD) on behalf of POWERGRID and by Shri Y.N. Apparao, Managing Director on behalf of Teesta Urja Ltd. in the presence of Shri S. K. Chaturvedi, CMD, POWERGRID and other senior officers of POWERGRID, Teesta Urja Ltd. and Teestavalley Power Transmission Ltd. The JV Board will be chaired by CMD, POWERGRID.
The project would be built up on Build, Own & Operate (BOO) basis and will also provide transmission capacity upto Kishanganj S/S of POWERGRID to various private HEPs being developed in North Sikkim . The project would be built on 70:30 Debt Equity Ratio. This Project will be an important part of the common transmission system for evacuation of more than 3000 MW generation from large number of upcoming HEPs in Sikkim to supply the power to the beneficiaries of Northern and Western regions.
Tendong Lho Rum Faat Committee 2008 decided to felicitate Chamling
Gangtok, August 06 (IST 21:24): Tendong Lho Rum Faat Celebration Committee 2008 decided to include a number of programmes in the celebration on August 7 and 8, 2008. Apart from the puja by a Bongthing, there will be a programme on Lepcha language and literature followed by Lepcha folk dance competition and exhibition cum sale of Lepcha traditional food, informs a press release.
The meeting attended by CT Lepcha, president, Sikkim Lepcha Association, Norzang Lepcha, MLA, Rakdong Tintek cum president of celebration committee and all members of Tendong Lho Rum Faat Celebration Committee also decided to felicitate the Chief Minister Pawan Chamling as well as to other prominent Lepcha personalities.
The celebration committee has also requested all the invites and well-wishers to be present during the celebration, requested Norjang Lepca on a press release.
Chamling urged Reddy to allot a suitable plot for New Sikkim House
Gangtok, August 06 (IST 21:24): Pawan Chamling, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Sikkim meets S. Jaipal Reddy, union Minister of Urban Development.
Chief Minister urges Union Minister for expeditions allotment of land for second New Sikkim House in Delhi for people of Sikkim .
Chamling called on Reddy on 5th Aug, 2008 and thanked him for expeditions consideration of important proposals of Sikkim that have contributed to the accelerated development of urban amenities and urban infrastructure in the State.
He urged Reddy to allot a suitable plot of land for construction of an additional Sikkim House facility at Delhi for the benefit of visiting officials/people from Sikkim to Delhi as the existing New Sikkim House facility at 14, Panchsheel Marg, Chanakyapuri, which was allotted nearly 30 years ago and has only 32 rooms, is not in a position to cater to the present day requirements that have since increased manifolds.
Acknowledging the pace of speedy urban infrastructure development unleashed by Chamling during his 15 years of Chief Minister-ship in which the Sikkim State experienced an era of peace and tranquility- a pre-requisite enabling environment for the seeds of sustainable development to grow and flourish, the Union Minister assured the him to provide all necessary central help and assistance to strengthen his hands besides expeditiously considering the allotment of land for an additional New Sikkim House in Delhi.
First income tax office opened in Sikkim
Gangtok, August 06 (IST 21:24): Sikkim today formally setup the central income tax office here this afternoon.
At the start, around 10 per cent of the state's total population of 5.4 lakh will come under the assessment of the tax. However, Sikkim Subject Domicile and holders of Certificate of Identification are exempt from paying the tax.
“The assessment year will be 2008-2009. This has already been agreed upon between the state and the Centre,” Bonani Ghosh, the commissioner of the income tax department (north Bengal and Sikkim ), said.
“I appeal to all members of the business community and the state government to make this a smooth operation,” the commissioner said.
A series of workshops will be conducted by the office soon to answer the queries of those who will now have to pay the Central Income Tax.
The Income Tax Act of 1961 had been extended to the state in 1989 but had not been enforced because of stiff opposition from residents, who felt it would overrule the old laws of Sikkim protected under Article 371 (f) of the Constitution.
Sonia Gandhi accepts Hon'ble Chief Minister's invitation to visit Sikkim .
Gangtok, August 05 (IST 16:00): Pawan Chamling, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Sikkim and President of Sikkim Democratic Front today met Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson, United Progressive Alliance and congratulated her for an impressive and decisive success in the Trust Vote secured by the UPA Government under her dynamic and vibrant leadership on the floor of the House recently. Gandhi happily acknowledged Chamling's greetings and praised the consistent and unflinching support of the Sikkim Democratic Front at Central level as an integral part of the UPA.
Highlighting the recent initiatives and achievements of the SDF Government at Sikkim which are aimed at meaningfully improving the socio-economic development of the State with a special reference to comprehensive improvement of rural infrastructure, quality education, status of minorities for fostering greater inclusiveness in the society, empowering women, SC/ST and weaker sections of the society and accelerated development of social and physical infrastructure.
Chief Minister briefed Chairperson on the urgent need to provide reservation of seats for the Limboo and Tamang communities in the Sikkim Legislative as currently there is no specific provision for reservation of assembly seats for STs in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly and resultantly, the Limboo and Tamang communities, the notified ST communities are unable to get their constitutionaldues and benefits as STs as far as the issue of representation in the State Assembly is concerned. Chamling maintained the State Government's firm and considered stand in the matter that in view of Sikkim's unique socio-political history, the existing specific reservation of 12 seats for Bhutia and Lepcha communities and 1 seat for Sangha in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, should not be disturbed or tinkered with while securing the reservation of assembly seats for Limboo and Tamang communities. Chamling stressed the need for an urgent decision by the UPA Government in the matter so as to enable the Limboo and Tamang communities to get their dues in the forthcoming Assembly Elections slated for 2009. Sonia Gandhi gave a positive response in urgent amicable solution to the problem.
Thanking Gandhi on her encouraging response to the issues and problems of Sikkim , Chief Minister invited her to visit the State which she readily accepted.
AWARENESS CAMPAIGN ON DRUG ABUSE & HIV/AIDS BY ASHI
Gangtok, August 5 (IST 16:00) : Association for Social Health in India, Sikkim branch organized a one day programme on Drug Abuse Prevention and HIV/AIDS Awareness Campaign at Upper Burtuk, Gangtok today.
Addressing the function, Chairperson, Bhima Gurung, State Social Welfare Board said there is a need to organize such campaigns so as to bring awareness among people on preventing drug use and HIV/AIDS. She also highlighted the various programmes the Board undertakes for the welfare of the society. Sharda Pradhan, president ASHI in her welcome address highlighted the various tasks undertaken by the NGO. Dr Indira Chettri, Medical Officer, STNM, Gangtok focused on how to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS specially among women. She gave a detailed talk on the status of HIV/AIDS in Sikkim and also highlighted the problems associated with substance abuses.
The programme was sponsored by Sikkim AIDS Control Society. Directorate of Field Publicity, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting also screened film on drug abuse and AIDS.
Andhaharu ko Ramkahani will be staged in September
Gangtok, August 04 (IST 20:30): The Muhurt of the play “Andhaharu ko Ramkahani” was today held at the Press Club of Sikkim with CK Shrestha, eminent theater personality cum journalist from Kalimpong as the chief guest. The play is part of an initiative by the Press Club of Sikkim to raise funds for the recently set up Journalist Welfare fund. Chunilal Ghimirey, managing director of Channel Ace Production was the chairperson of the programme. He contributed Rs 5000 towards the Journalist Welfare Fund today. The play will be staged in the last week of September'08. (Photo: Pravin Khaling)
Press Club of Sikkim will stage Andhaharu ko Ramkahani
Gangtok, August 04 (IST 05:30): The Press Club of Sikkim is going to stage a play to raise funds for recently set up Journalist Welfare Fund (JWF). ‘Andhaharu ko Ramkahani,” a popular play written by eminent playwright from Kalimpong, CK Shrestha, will be attend the Subha Muhurt function today to provide instruction and suggestion. Play will be directed by Hemant Giri, editor of Naya Kanchandzonga.
JWF a welfare fund for journalists launched by The Press Club of Sikkim officially during the 6th anniversary function of the Press Club.
The minister for tourism, RB Subba contributed Rs. 10,000 as a personal contribution for JWF from his side. This fund would play an important role in providing financial assistance to members of the Press Club in times of need. “This fund has been developed with the view to ensure that the local journalists meet up the financial challenges in times of emergencies like expensive medical treatments or accidents,” Bhim Rawat, the General Secretary of the Press Club said. He also said that a separate bank account would be maintained for the scheme by Press Club.
Anjan Upadhaya, editor and publisher of Hamro Prajashakti contributed Rs. 20,000 and journalist Pabitra Bhandari contributed Rs. 20,000 for JWF. Samay, a vernacular local daily contributed Rs. 5,000 and Sanjay Pradhan, journalist from Darjeeling also contributed Rs. 500 for the same.
Inmate made attempt to commit suicide in State Jail
Gangtok, August 02 (IST 19:00): As per World Health Organization, Suicide is often the single most common cause of death in correctional settings. Jails and prisons are responsible for protecting the health and safety of their inmate populations, and the failure to do so, can be open to legal challenge. Further fuelled by media interest, a suicide in correctional facility can easily escalate into a political scandal. The provision of adequate suicide prevention and intervention services is both beneficial to the prisoners in custody, as well as to the institution.
An attempt to commit suicide landed an inmate in the hospital here. Pardeep Rai, 29, was critically injured when he tried to commit suicide at the State Jail, Rongnyek this morning. Condition of the inmate is critical.
According to police source, the inmate tried to commit suicide outside his ward at the Jail with the help of a rope cut out from a blanket which was tied to a solar water heater pipe.
The inmate was immediately evacuated to the STNM Hospital from where he was referred to the Central Referral Hospital .
Rai, who was a taxi driver, was arrested by Sadar Police in November 2007 on charges of hitting a home guard by a Maruti Van near the Titanic Park here in the Capital. He was sent for judicial remand at Rongyal Jail and was an under trail.
A Tourism Double for Sikkim
Gangtok, August 2 (IST 06:15): Sikkim's effort in making Tourism a sustainable industry is bearing fruit with awards coming in at both the state and local level.
The state of Sikkim ha