Imphal, July 13: Legal luminaries and practitioners of the region bade a tearful adieu to late Justice N Surjamani along with rich floral tributes to his mortal remains at the premises of Gauhati High Court, Imphal bench today.The mortal remains were brought to Imphal airport at 2.30 pm before it was taken to the premises of Gauhati High Court, Imphal bench where fitting obeisance was paid.Fitting tribute was paid to the late Justice by the Advocate Generals of Sikkim and Manipur, Registrar General of Gauhati High Court, the Principal Secy, serving and retired Judges of Gauhati High Court, members of both High Court Bar Assn Manipur and All Manipur Bar Assn and many others.The mortal remains were later taken to his native birth place at Khagempalli Panthak where they were put to rest amidst customary rites.Owing to the obituary reference and paying of floral tributes to the Departed Justice, court works at the High Court Imphal Bench were suspended for the second consecutive day today.Meanwhile, the High Court Employees' Assn held a condolence meeting today with Registrar Ng Max Phazang and president Ph Ibotombi in the chair.The meeting condoled the demise of Surjamani by observing two minute silence in honour of the departed soul.Acting Chief Justice of Sikkim High Court N Surjamani passed away at Apollo Hospital, New Delhi yesterday morning after a brief illness.
(The Sangai Express)
Sikkim Served Fresh Daily
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Friday, July 13, 2007
Defence ministry of India Against Increasing Items for Nathula Trade
Small-scale trade via the 14,000ft high mountain pass on India’s border with China, was allowed in July 2006
New Delhi:The defence ministry has expressed reservations on an initiative to expand the basket of goods traded with China at the Nathu la border post in Sikkim.
It is currently in talks with the commerce ministry, which wants to step up trade.
“The defence ministry basically wants limited trade to avoid large-scale movement of Chinese traders. I have said that the expanded list will only ensure trade in more serious items but not change the nature of limited trade,” said minister of state for commerce and industry Jairam Ramesh.
His ministry wants to expand the list of items that can be exported through Nathu la from 29 to 53, but the defence establishment has indicated that anything more than limited border trade may create “military concern” in “sensitive border areas”.
Small-scale trade via the 14,000ft high mountain pass on India’s border with China, was allowed in July 2006.
The old fear that Nathu la could lead to unchecked entry of Chinese into India and eventually compromise defence establishments has resurfaced at the defence ministry. Unchecked entry would mean “redeploying military assets in the state”, the defence ministry has said.
To address these concerns, the commerce ministry has assured that even if the number of items traded goes up as proposed, it will not largely alter the nature of trading.
“What is now being proposed is still limited border trade and it has nothing to do with transit trade or even normal MFN (most favoured nation) trade,” Ramesh wrote in an 11 July letter to the defence minister . India currently exports only agricultural implements, blankets, copper products, clothes, bicycles, coffee, tea, barley, rice, cigarettes, snuff, watches, wheat, stationery, spices, canned food, jaggery, tobacco, dry fruits, dyes and other minor items to China through Nathu la.
The commerce ministry proposes that chillies, medicinal plants, beads, silk textiles, jam, pickles, butter, meat, maize, cardamom, oranges, orchids, biscuits, prayer wheels, incense sticks and butter lamp oil be also included.
“You will notice from the list of items that are proposed to be included that there is hardly any security angle,” Ramesh has said in the letter.
According to Major General (retd) Ashok Mehta, a week-long battle fought at Nathu la during the 1967 war with China has not been forgotten.
Mehta said he believes that the historical concerns still weigh heavily with the defence establishment, especially in view of the elaborate build-up of infrastructure by China in Tibet. “If you open Nathu la, you cannot stop people (from China) coming in, you will have to allow all, not some people,” he said.
DAY 24:"Sikkim Hunger Strike" Dawa admitted to STNM Hospital
Gangtok: The indefinite hunger strike by Affected Citizen of Teesta(ACT) enters 24days on July 13 in Sikkim as state celebrates Bhanu Jayanti and the stand-off between the State Government and ACT continued despite the effort to settle the matter after two rounds of talks.
General secretary of Affected Citizens of Teesta (ACT) Dawa T. Lepcha, who has been on hunger strike for the past 23 days, was shifted to hospital this morning after his pressure dropped drastically.
Lepcha, who is also a documentary film-maker, has been admitted to Sir Thutob Namgyal Memorial Hospital. Twenty-year-old Tenzing Gyatso Lepcha, an ACT member, was admitted to the same hospital five days ago with high fever and low pressure. Both the activists said they would continue fasting at the hospital. Thirteen other ACT members are fasting at B.L. House on Sonam Gyatso Marg here.
The ACT members are on hunger strike to demand the immediate scrapping of all the mega hydel power projects in the Lepcha reserve of Dzongu in North Sikkim.
A saline channel attached to his right hand, Tenzing, told The Telegraph that he was not willing to give up so soon. “I have already come this far and I think there is no stopping until a positive decision is reached. I am ready to give up my life in the course of this protest,” said Tenzing who has recently taken his final-year examinations at Sikkim Government College.
The ACT members today thanked the Rong Ong Prongzom (Lepcha Youth Organisation) for organising the recent roadblock in Kalimpong. They described the act of solidarity by the indigenous people of the Darjeeling hills as a historic event. “It is unfortunate to term the peaceful expression of dissent by the aborigines of the hills as unlawful,” said Tseten Lepcha, the chief coordinator of ACT.
The statement is in reply to the Sikkim government’s release on Wednesday, condemning the roadblock. The government, had in a communiqué yesterday, said it had taken serious note of rumours being spread by vested interest groups on the so-called threat posed to Dzongu and other project sites.
“The state government reiterates that all developmental projects being undertaken in the state are as per the procedure prescribed by law which provided for public hearing of the projects at its site. In fact the whole process has been a detailed and lengthy procedure addressing the concerns for environment and tradition,” the release read.
There was, however, no new proposal for the protesters from the government today
Lepcha, who is also a documentary film-maker, has been admitted to Sir Thutob Namgyal Memorial Hospital. Twenty-year-old Tenzing Gyatso Lepcha, an ACT member, was admitted to the same hospital five days ago with high fever and low pressure. Both the activists said they would continue fasting at the hospital. Thirteen other ACT members are fasting at B.L. House on Sonam Gyatso Marg here.
The ACT members are on hunger strike to demand the immediate scrapping of all the mega hydel power projects in the Lepcha reserve of Dzongu in North Sikkim.A saline channel attached to his right hand, Tenzing, told The Telegraph that he was not willing to give up so soon. “I have already come this far and I think there is no stopping until a positive decision is reached. I am ready to give up my life in the course of this protest,” said Tenzing who has recently taken his final-year examinations at Sikkim Government College.
The ACT members today thanked the Rong Ong Prongzom (Lepcha Youth Organisation) for organising the recent roadblock in Kalimpong. They described the act of solidarity by the indigenous people of the Darjeeling hills as a historic event. “It is unfortunate to term the peaceful expression of dissent by the aborigines of the hills as unlawful,” said Tseten Lepcha, the chief coordinator of ACT.
The statement is in reply to the Sikkim government’s release on Wednesday, condemning the roadblock. The government, had in a communiqué yesterday, said it had taken serious note of rumours being spread by vested interest groups on the so-called threat posed to Dzongu and other project sites.
“The state government reiterates that all developmental projects being undertaken in the state are as per the procedure prescribed by law which provided for public hearing of the projects at its site. In fact the whole process has been a detailed and lengthy procedure addressing the concerns for environment and tradition,” the release read.
There was, however, no new proposal for the protesters from the government today
Burglary at Arithang, Gangtok
Gangtok:A case was registered under Section 454/380 of the IPC for theft against unknown persons against written complaint of Lakpa Tamang of Arithang.
On July11, The Complainant had reportedly gone to Police colony at 6Mile for the purpose of plantation and thieves broke into the his house at around 11 am or 12 noon and stole away Cash Rs.90,000/-,gold bangles of 2 tolas,gold ear-rings and a Nikon Camera.
During the incident, the Complainant's son was at school and wife had gone to supervise construction of their house nearby.
The Police officers visited the crime scene and intelligence sources are being deployed to get clues.
On July11, The Complainant had reportedly gone to Police colony at 6Mile for the purpose of plantation and thieves broke into the his house at around 11 am or 12 noon and stole away Cash Rs.90,000/-,gold bangles of 2 tolas,gold ear-rings and a Nikon Camera.
During the incident, the Complainant's son was at school and wife had gone to supervise construction of their house nearby.
The Police officers visited the crime scene and intelligence sources are being deployed to get clues.
A PHOTO FEATURE ON SIKKIM BHANU JAYANTI
Gangtok:Aadikavi (first poet) Bhanubhakta Acharya was remembered by the literary community, students and linguists alike by organising various programmes on his 194th birth anniversary Friday.The nation is commemorating the Aadikavi's birth anniversary acknowledging his immense contribution to Nepali language and literature.
Later to be known as Aadikavi, Bhanubhakta Acharya was the first to translate the epic Ramayana from Sanskrit to generally understood Nepali language thus hugely contributing to building the foundation of Nepali literature through many of his epics and poems that he wrote. He is a revered not only in Nepal but beyond the national frontiers, Darjeeling, Sikkim and Deheradun.
The 194 birth anniversary of first poet of Nepali language was celebrated in a grand manner in Gangtok.A colourful rally was taken-out from Bhanu Garden,zero point to TNA School Aditorium where a cultural programme to mark the Bhanu Jayanti was orgainsedby Nepali Sahitya Parishad of Sikkim which included presentation of "BHANU PURASKAR" to Shri Bhim Dahal as well as finals of Inter-School Debate Competition.
The Chief Guest of the occasion was Shri Mingma Sherpa, the Deputy speaker of Sikkim Legislative and the function was presided over by Minister G.M. Gurung.
(All photographs are through courtesy: HimgiriNepali)
Later to be known as Aadikavi, Bhanubhakta Acharya was the first to translate the epic Ramayana from Sanskrit to generally understood Nepali language thus hugely contributing to building the foundation of Nepali literature through many of his epics and poems that he wrote. He is a revered not only in Nepal but beyond the national frontiers, Darjeeling, Sikkim and Deheradun.
The 194 birth anniversary of first poet of Nepali language was celebrated in a grand manner in Gangtok.A colourful rally was taken-out from Bhanu Garden,zero point to TNA School Aditorium where a cultural programme to mark the Bhanu Jayanti was orgainsedby Nepali Sahitya Parishad of Sikkim which included presentation of "BHANU PURASKAR" to Shri Bhim Dahal as well as finals of Inter-School Debate Competition.
The Chief Guest of the occasion was Shri Mingma Sherpa, the Deputy speaker of Sikkim Legislative and the function was presided over by Minister G.M. Gurung.
(All photographs are through courtesy: HimgiriNepali)
Sikkim Government Rejects ACT Protests On Power Projects
Government of Sikkim's Statement on Hydel Policy
Government has initiated to develop Hydro-Electro Power for the sustainable economic development of the state.
Gangtok, 12 July
Sikkim is endowed with abundant hydro-potential which is estimated to be around 8,000 MW and therefore, the State Government has initiated to develop Hydro-Electro Power for the sustainable economic development of the state. All out support and cooperation from all sections of society is solicited towards this reform process. However, there seems to be some apprehensions in the minds of small section of the society about the Hydro Electro Power Projects. The State Government has been treading the path very cautiously. In spite of Government of India’s preference for multi purpose large dam storage type hydel projects, the State Government has stuck to run of the river type of hydel projects. The world over, run of the river project is considered the cleanliest and the most environment friendly source of energy.
Sikkim is endowed with abundant hydro-potential which is estimated to be around 8,000 MW and therefore, the State Government has initiated to develop Hydro-Electro Power for the sustainable economic development of the state. All out support and cooperation from all sections of society is solicited towards this reform process. However, there seems to be some apprehensions in the minds of small section of the society about the Hydro Electro Power Projects. The State Government has been treading the path very cautiously. In spite of Government of India’s preference for multi purpose large dam storage type hydel projects, the State Government has stuck to run of the river type of hydel projects. The world over, run of the river project is considered the cleanliest and the most environment friendly source of energy.
In the context of development of hydel projects in Sikkim the following points emerged as major positive factors :
1. The hydel projects to become the major source of revenue for the State. The State has very limited scope to raise the revenue and the hydel project sector is the best avenue to achieve it. The State Government has negotiated to the best possible bargain from the developers. 12 % of the generated energy is given to the State for the first 15 years which will be raised to 15% after the end of 15th year and at the end of 35th year the projects will be handed over to the State Government free of cost in operating condition.
2. Employment Generation and Business Opportunity : The developers are required to source locally all the skilled, semi skilled and unskilled labours. All the works other than the major structures in the hydel projects shall be awarded to the local contractors. This way employment generation and business opportunities to the local populace are ensured.
3. Local area development : The far flung areas around the project sites mostly located in the remote corner of the State will benefit by way of development activities like road connectivity, schools and primary health centres.
4. Adoption of the villages : The developer of the larger projects are required to adopt one or two villages in the vicinity of the project sites. These villages will be developed by the developer by providing all civic facilities required as per the concept of a model village.
All the above advantages are weighed against the disadvantages the development of hydel projects is associated with.
The apprehensions bothering the minds of section of local people are chiefly the followings :
a. Demographic change in the project area; it is feared that the influx of people will change the demographic of the project area.
b. The biodiversity of the project area will be disturbed.
c. The young and fragile Himalayan rocks may not be able to sustain the development works associated with such hydel projects. The apprehensions are not completely unfounded. However, steps to mitigate these problems have been addressed amply and have been included as integral part of the project.
a. Influx of people: First preference will be given to the local people for all skilled, semi skilled and unskilled workers. Only when such workers are not available locally the developers are allowed to bring in workers from outside the State. All those who are brought in should be registered and their work permit should be renewed every six months. Such labours have to leave the project sites as soon as their job is done. Residential quarters and colonies shall not be allowed to be set up in Dzongu area. This is a stipulation of the Ministry of Environment while issuing environmental clearance.
b. Preservation of Biodiversity: Environmental impact assessment of each project has been done by experts and they have suggested Environment Management Plan. The developer has to strictly adopt to the stipulations therein.
c. Geological Problems: It is because of the apprehensions related to geology that the State Government has taken a stand that all the projects shall be run of the river type and no big dam shall be constructed. Run of the river will have the advantage of light construction of storage and water conductor system. This will mitigate the geological risk factors.
Conclusion: The State Government has initiated to develop hydel schemes to utilize its available natural resource to attain self-reliance, which will bring about socio-economical upliftment of the Sikkimese people and shall generate adequate revenue for the State to usher it to the 21st century. However, while doing so all possible risks have been sufficiently addressed.
Sikkim Celebrates 194th birth anniversary of Bhanu Bhakta
GANGTOK, July 13: Sikkim is gearing up to celebrate the 193rd birth anniversary of Bhanu Bhakta Acharya, an eminent Nepali writer, today. Sikkim Governor Mr V Rama Rao and chief minister Mr Pawan Chamling have extended their greetings to the peopole of the state on this occasion. Bhanu Bhakta Acharya who is also known as Aadhvi Kavi, became famous after he translated the Ramayana in Nepali language in the 18th century. The main celebrations are being held at across state especially at Gangtok,Singtam& Namchi.
People would gather at Singtam Bazaar tomorrow to celebrate the day amidst lots of fun state agriculture minister Mr Somnath Poudyal said.Nepal Singer Kunti Moktan is performing live in Sintam.The writer Bhim Dahal will be presented "Bhanu Puraskar" by Nepali Sahitya Parishad in Gangtok as well as The finals of Inter-School debate will be held today at Gangtok and Award Cermony is being organised at Namchi Community Hall today to mark the occassion.
Land Slide at Ganesh Tok
Gangtok:A series of landslides which hit the peripheral areas of Ganesh Tok yesterday morning have not only put the houses below Upper Chandmari at major risk but also poses grave danger to shrine itself.
The heavy rain of night have triggered four landslides around GaneshTok,with one of them sliding from the retaining wall below the shrine.The slides were still active till late afternoon with the constant peeling away of boulders and mud which began around 8.30 in morning.
The landslide and its affected areas were visited by the District Administration official, Panchayats and Police people as soon as locals int imitated them.
It is informed that there are a total of 28 households living below Ganesh Tok which are threatened by the landslides. All the families have been advised to evacuate their homes and though this has initially met with protest from some who refused to leave their homes,officials ,however, convinced them of threat active slides above their houses may pose to lives if turned more larger in scale.Addl.D.C. Navin Karki informs that a total of 10 house owners were living with their tenants in the areas.While some of the households moved to the homes of their relatives & friends nearby, those who did not have same provisions were accommodated at Enchey School or at Panchayat Kendra.he also informed that officials from Mines & Geology dept. have already inspected the slide-zone and surveyed the affected areas. The experts have predicted of more slides as the zone is made up of fragile broken rocks.
"Given the circumstances, the Ganesh Tok Shrine has been closed for public for next three days.after which conditions will be reviewed" Mr. Karki informed.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
SIKKIM GOVERNOR & CHIEF MINISTER GREETS PEOPLE ON BHANU JAYANTI
सिक्किमका राज्यपाल तथा मुख्यमन्त्रीद्वारा भानुजयन्तीको शुभकामाना
Gangtok: On the auspicous occasion of 193rd. Bhanu Jayanti, which falls on July 13, 2007, the Governor of Sikkim, Shri V. Rama Rao and Smt. Vasantha Kumari have extended their warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Sikkim.
The Chief Minister of Sikkim Pawan Chamling and Smt. Tika Maya Chamling have also extended similar greetings to the people of Sikkim
Gangtok: On the auspicous occasion of 193rd. Bhanu Jayanti, which falls on July 13, 2007, the Governor of Sikkim, Shri V. Rama Rao and Smt. Vasantha Kumari have extended their warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Sikkim.
The Chief Minister of Sikkim Pawan Chamling and Smt. Tika Maya Chamling have also extended similar greetings to the people of Sikkim
Sikkim High Court judge passes away
Gangtok, July 12: Justice Surjamani Singh, a judge in the Sikkim High Court, passed away at Apollo Hospital in New Delhi early Thursday morning. Justice Singh, 62, had been ailing for some time with liver problem and was admitted to Apollo Hospital on June 30, family sources said. He is survived by his wife, three sons and a daughter. All state government offices, educational institutions and public undertakings have been declared closed in the state for the day as a mark of respect to the departed justice, a Home Department notification said here.
The Sikkim High Court is the High Court of the state of Sikkim. Sikkim became a part of India in 1975, and the court, which was earlier the national court, now became a state court.
The court is headquartered in Gangtok, the administrative capital of the state. The court has a sanctioned judge strength of 3.
The Sikkim High Court is the High Court of the state of Sikkim. Sikkim became a part of India in 1975, and the court, which was earlier the national court, now became a state court.
The court is headquartered in Gangtok, the administrative capital of the state. The court has a sanctioned judge strength of 3.
3 convicted for forging Sikkim CM's Signature
Former IPS officer and wife sent to jail in forgery caseGangtok: On July 11,2007 the high profile case involving several individuals accused of having forged Chief Minister's signature on applications made out to secure contracts and favours has concluded with District & Sessions Judge,Gangtok delivering judgement on the case as well as pronouncing the sentence .
The Court has sentenced three persons, including a former IPS officer, to four and half years imprisonment for forging the signature of Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling. District and Sessions judge S W Lepcha on Wenesday, held former IPS officer Anil Khanna, his wife Rajni Hilton and Asim Chettri, guilty of forging the signature of chief minister as endorsements on applications for contract works and favours from government departments. The three were taken to the state jail at Rongyek after the judgement was pronounced and their bail plea rejected. The three were arrested in February 2005 for forging the signature of Chamling for securing contracts from schools and favours from government departments, SP (Crime) D B Thapa said. Asim Chettri, a co-accused in the case along with Khanna and his wife, is the man from whose house rubber stamps and other vital evidences had been found, the SP added.
With this Crime branch of Sikkim police investigating the case has successfully concluded the matter which became one time talk of town. The team was headed by DSP Nedup Wangdi as its investigating officer.
The judge declared while pronouncing the judgement that three guilty of forging the signature of Chief Minister pawan Chamling as endorsements on applications for contract works,including a request to operate a 2 digit lottery.
DAY 22: Tenzing's Health Conditions Deteriorates
Gangtok: Tenzing Gyatso Lepcha who completed 22 days of hunger strike in protest against Dzongu hydro projects has been adviced by doctors to break his fast so that he could undergo proper medication required to cure the viral infection he has contracted.Tenzing is however is refusing to break his fast.
He was admitted to the Emergency ward of STNM Hospital some days back and has been observing the fast in there too as continuation of his protests. Dawa lepcha, another ACT member who has also been on Hunger Strike since day one at BL House too has gone weak but refuse to break his Satyagraha.
Meanwhile, On day 22 at BL House Janga Bahadur Gautam aged 65, Dupden Lepcha(20), Phur Tshering Lepcha (18), Laden Tshering Lepcha(23) and Tashi Lecha(27) have joined the others in their indefinite hunger strike.
There is still no official response from the State government.
There is still no official response from the State government.
Bachelor of Degree without completing school
photo: Salesian College,Sonada
Darjeeling: Sometimes, breaking the traditional system is the demand of modern time. The new system is under implementation for the students who have not even passed out the Madyamik pariksha (Class X). The new course called BPP (Bachelor Preparatory Programme), anyone who can speak and write English is eligible to apply for it, with the registration fee of Rs 600/-. The candidate should pass the course BPP by 6 months to 2 years.Free classes are being conducted in Celestian College, Sonada at 3 pm to 5 pm every day for this course. 18 students have been successfully completed BPP course last year, out of 25 students. This year, 50 students have registered in BPP course. After completion of BPP course, students can join BA, B Com, BTS.The new course called Computer Literacy Programme will also be introduced in August, according to Father Joseph of Salesian College, Sonada.and interested students are requested to contact directly to Salesian College, Sonada
For details contact:Salesian College,Sonada (Post),Darjeeling 734219,West Bengal
phone-0354-2466243/328
cut flowers on Bagdogra-Delhi sector at Rs 12.05 per kg
Darjeeling: The civil aviation ministry’s decision to grant freight subsidy to Indian Airlines for the Bagdogra-New Delhi route is not helping hill farmers much.
In a letter to Dawa Narbula recently, the Congress MP from Darjeeling, civil aviation minister Praful Patel said the new rate has been introduced keeping in mind hill florists and cultivators.
“Indian Airlines has introduced special commodity rate for cut flowers on Bagdogra-Delhi sector at Rs 12.05 per kg,” the letter — DO No. AV 18011/56/2007-IA — reads.
Though floriculture is a thriving business, especially in Kalimpong and Mirik, the discount is not helping. For one, most florists send their produce to Calcutta, instead of Delhi, where they have their agents. Second, a number of florists with whom The Telegraph spoke to maintain that the cost of the 12-hour train ride is Rs 200/Rs 250 for 35kg of flower (which comes to around Rs 6 per kg).
“This amount is inclusive of the transport cost from Kalimpong. The discount would have been attractive had it been Rs 7 per kilogram,” said Bishnu Chhetri, a florist.
Though most cultivators maintain that it is difficult to export cut flowers to overseas market because of the difficulties in maintaining high quality at all times, a section does send bulbs, tubers and saplings to far-off lands.
“For that, we don’t have to go to Delhi for most of us have agents in Calcutta. Even if the prices are very attractive in the Bagdogra-Delhi sector, it will be difficult to come out of the set chain,” said Mahindra Pradhan of Ganesh Mani Pradhan and Sons, a nursery in Kalimpong, which sends its produce to markets in the US, UK and Germany.
“If this is the case, then I will ask the minister to extend the discount to the Bagdogra-Calcutta sector,” Narbula said over phone from Delhi.
More goods to be traded through Nathu La
New Delhi July 12, 2007: In a move that is likely to boost border trade between India and China, the commerce ministry is considering to expand the number of items traded through Nathu La in Sikkim.
Currently 15 items are permitted to be exported through Nathu La while 20 items are allowed to be imported from China.
The expanded list is expected to include significantly higher number of items as the Sikkim government wants atleast 100 products in the export list.
It has been taking interest in increasing the list of items, currently being traded through Nathu La.
“We had submitted a petition to the Centre, asking them to increase the list, and to include at least 100 items in the export list,” said Saman Prasad Subba, director of industry and commerce, Government of Sikkim.
“We are currently reviewing the number of items being traded through Nathu La. An announcement is likely to be made in another month,” said a commerce ministry official.
The review by the commerce ministry comes in the backdrop of displeasure expressed by the Chinese government officials on the low volume and value of trade through the strategic border post, located at a height of 14,4000 feet.
Exports during May and June this year stood at around Rs 6.5 lakh while import was a meagre Rs 32,000 which mostly consisted of yak tail. It is believed that trade is sluggish because of little demand for the items that India allows to be traded in.
The import list mostly comprises animal and animal products like yak tail, yak hair, sheep, horses and goat, while the export list included cycles, tea, vegetables and liquor.
The border post was opened for trade between the two countries on July 6, last yearafter remaining shut for more than 44 years.
The pass remains closed during winter and opens from May to November. Indian traders sell their goods in Renqingang, on the Chinese side, 16 km from the border, while Chinese merchants sell their produce in Sherathang, in Sikkim, around 5 km from Nathu La.
Currently 15 items are permitted to be exported through Nathu La while 20 items are allowed to be imported from China.
The expanded list is expected to include significantly higher number of items as the Sikkim government wants atleast 100 products in the export list.
It has been taking interest in increasing the list of items, currently being traded through Nathu La.
“We had submitted a petition to the Centre, asking them to increase the list, and to include at least 100 items in the export list,” said Saman Prasad Subba, director of industry and commerce, Government of Sikkim.
“We are currently reviewing the number of items being traded through Nathu La. An announcement is likely to be made in another month,” said a commerce ministry official.
The review by the commerce ministry comes in the backdrop of displeasure expressed by the Chinese government officials on the low volume and value of trade through the strategic border post, located at a height of 14,4000 feet.
Exports during May and June this year stood at around Rs 6.5 lakh while import was a meagre Rs 32,000 which mostly consisted of yak tail. It is believed that trade is sluggish because of little demand for the items that India allows to be traded in.
The import list mostly comprises animal and animal products like yak tail, yak hair, sheep, horses and goat, while the export list included cycles, tea, vegetables and liquor.
The border post was opened for trade between the two countries on July 6, last yearafter remaining shut for more than 44 years.
The pass remains closed during winter and opens from May to November. Indian traders sell their goods in Renqingang, on the Chinese side, 16 km from the border, while Chinese merchants sell their produce in Sherathang, in Sikkim, around 5 km from Nathu La.
Sikkim Highway blocked for 2 hours
Lepcha body lends support to Sikkim fast
photo:Prongzom supporters at the blockade
Melli (Kalimpong): Traffic on NH31A, which connects Sikkim to Siliguri, was disrupted for two hours following a blockade by the Rong Ong Prongzom (Lepcha Youth Organisation) here today on July11.
The roadblock that began at 11am, was organised in support of Affected Citizens of Teesta which has been on hunger strike in Gangtok, demanding the immediate scrapping of the NHPC’s hydel projects in Dzongu, an area reserved for Lepchas.
About 2,000 people, mostly Lepchas attired in their traditional best — dumpra (for men) and gadha (for women) — split into four teams and blocked different intersections, allowing only ambulances, defence and other emergency service vehicles to pass. A heavy police bandobust, including a team of Sikkim policemen, was in place to maintain peace.
Addressing the gathering at the blockade, Prongzom president Dorji Lepcha said the intention was not to cause harassment to commuters, but to preserve the identity of the Lepchas. “Dzongu (meaning fortified palace in Lepcha) is sacred to us and any attempts to destroy it will have to be stopped,” he said.
Reacting to the blockade, the Sikkim information and public relations department issued a communique later in day. “The projects in Sikkim have been cleared by the government in public interest. The government of Sikkim has taken up the matter with the government of West Bengal expressing serious concern about the unlawful blockade and the lack of steps to prevent it,” the release reads.
The roadblock that began at 11am, was organised in support of Affected Citizens of Teesta which has been on hunger strike in Gangtok, demanding the immediate scrapping of the NHPC’s hydel projects in Dzongu, an area reserved for Lepchas.
About 2,000 people, mostly Lepchas attired in their traditional best — dumpra (for men) and gadha (for women) — split into four teams and blocked different intersections, allowing only ambulances, defence and other emergency service vehicles to pass. A heavy police bandobust, including a team of Sikkim policemen, was in place to maintain peace.
Addressing the gathering at the blockade, Prongzom president Dorji Lepcha said the intention was not to cause harassment to commuters, but to preserve the identity of the Lepchas. “Dzongu (meaning fortified palace in Lepcha) is sacred to us and any attempts to destroy it will have to be stopped,” he said.
Reacting to the blockade, the Sikkim information and public relations department issued a communique later in day. “The projects in Sikkim have been cleared by the government in public interest. The government of Sikkim has taken up the matter with the government of West Bengal expressing serious concern about the unlawful blockade and the lack of steps to prevent it,” the release reads.
a day old baby abandoned in Jorethang died
photo: Jorethang TownGangtok, July 12: Two newborns have been found in the past 24 hours. While one responded to treatment, the other died at a primary health centre in Jorethang today.
A week-old girl was spotted near Tenzing and Tenzing yesterday by a passer-by. She was found on the road between Deorali and Gangtok. Doctors of Sir Thutob Namgyal Memorial Hospital — where police had admitted her — said the baby will pull through.
A probe is on to find the parents.
In Jorethang, a newborn was found by Head constable A.K.Pradhan of Sikkim Police Mazi Gaon beat on the banks of the Rangit in South Sikkim. Only a day-old, the baby was taken to a primary health centre there but did not survive.
The police, however, have identified one Sita Pradhan as the mother of the dead baby. She is presently undergoing treatment and could be arrested after she recovers.
In the last week of May, another baby was rescued from a toilet pipe where she had been shoved in by her minor mother. An alert toilet attendant and quick thinking by employees of Entel Motors at 5th Mile, Tadong, had saved her life. The girl was admitted to the neo-natal care unit of the Central Referral Hospital at 6th Mile.
Christened Asha (meaning hope), she is currently being looked after by Priya Reddy, the wife of the CEO of Entel Motors, Guru T Ladaki.
After news of her miraculous survival appeared in newspapers, contributions have been pouring in from across the state.
The baby’s treatment is met from the donations. Asha, who is still under the neo-natal care of the referral hospital, has shown signs of improvement, paediatricians treating her said.
A week-old girl was spotted near Tenzing and Tenzing yesterday by a passer-by. She was found on the road between Deorali and Gangtok. Doctors of Sir Thutob Namgyal Memorial Hospital — where police had admitted her — said the baby will pull through.
A probe is on to find the parents.
In Jorethang, a newborn was found by Head constable A.K.Pradhan of Sikkim Police Mazi Gaon beat on the banks of the Rangit in South Sikkim. Only a day-old, the baby was taken to a primary health centre there but did not survive.
The police, however, have identified one Sita Pradhan as the mother of the dead baby. She is presently undergoing treatment and could be arrested after she recovers.
In the last week of May, another baby was rescued from a toilet pipe where she had been shoved in by her minor mother. An alert toilet attendant and quick thinking by employees of Entel Motors at 5th Mile, Tadong, had saved her life. The girl was admitted to the neo-natal care unit of the Central Referral Hospital at 6th Mile.
Christened Asha (meaning hope), she is currently being looked after by Priya Reddy, the wife of the CEO of Entel Motors, Guru T Ladaki.
After news of her miraculous survival appeared in newspapers, contributions have been pouring in from across the state.
The baby’s treatment is met from the donations. Asha, who is still under the neo-natal care of the referral hospital, has shown signs of improvement, paediatricians treating her said.
Tibetans arrested including 3 teenage Girls in Sikkim
7 Tibetans arrested
Gangtok, July 12: Seven nationals of the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China were detained after they crossed over to the Indian side yesterday at two separate locations in Sikkim, reports our correspondent.
While jawans of the Sikh Regiment apprehended four men at Thin Karu-la, over 150km from here, in North district, three teenage girls were spotted at Tamze near Thegu, beyond Changu, in East Sikkim. All of them were handed over to nearby police stations after interrogation.
Sikkim Opposition Unhappy Over Dr. Mahendra P Lama
GANGTOK, July 12: Opposition parties of the state have criticised the appointment of Mr Mahindra P Lama as vice-chancellor of the newly set up Central University in Sikkim. It may be recalled that Mr Lama, arguably the youngest vice-chancellor in the country, joined the university on 2 July. Alleging that Mr Lama was associated with political parties before taking over as vice-chancellor of the Central University, Dr AD Subba, president of the Sikkim Himali Rajya Parishad (SHRP), an Opposition party of the state, said: “Mr Lama was an economic advisor to the Sikkim chief minister. We have reservations against his appointment because he is close to the leaders of the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front. His appointment would result in political interference in the functioning of the university.” Dr Subba said a vice-chancellor should not have any political background. “A large number of eligible persons were there in the state to hold the vice-chancellor’s chair. It was unfortunate that Mr Lama was chosen for the post,” Dr Subba, added. It’s not just the SHRP, leaders of other Opposition parties have also expressed their reservations over Mr Lama’s appointment. Commenting on the allegation, Mr Lama, said: “I don’t need to justify my appointment as I was appointed by the Union government with assent from the President of India.”
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Bhanu Jayanti Inter-School Debate in Gangtok
Inter-School Debate Finals between West Point SS School Vs Deorali Girls SS School
Gangtok: The semi-final round of the Jeewan Theeng Memorial Inter-School Debate Competition as part of 193rd Bhanu Jayanti Celebrations was held here at Nepali Sahitya Parishad Bhawan of Gangtok which was attended by Gangtok MLA NK Pradhan as the Chief Guest.
The judges for the competition were Pravin Rai Jumeli,Geeta Niroula and Bijay Bantawa. Debating on topic of " After recognition Nepali language is developing" was Rhenock Senior Secondary School for the motion while West Point S.S.School spoke against the motion.
The judges for the competition were Pravin Rai Jumeli,Geeta Niroula and Bijay Bantawa. Debating on topic of " After recognition Nepali language is developing" was Rhenock Senior Secondary School for the motion while West Point S.S.School spoke against the motion.
The final results declared West Point S.S.School as the winner of the competition with a total of 97 points while Rhenock SSS scored 86 points from the judges.
In the second semi-finals of the competition Deorali Girls S.S.School speaks for the motion with opponents against the motion on the topic " Those who accept universal change will only attain overall development".
Deorali Girls S.S.School lifted the honours by scoring 118 points while,Tadong SSS has scored 84.33 points.
A total of 16 schools from across the Sikkim participated in the debate competition. The finals of debate will be held on July 13,2007 between West Point S.S. School & Deorali Girls S.S. School.
A NEWBORN baby girl found abandoned in Gangtok
Gangtok: In another shocking incident, A newborn baby was abandoned in the dark lane near the Passang building located near Tenzing&Tenzing point of Gangtok around 7.30 pm on tuesday evening i.e. July10th 2007 by one Kidoma Sherpa who have brought the matter to the notice of Sikkim Police immediately who have immediately rushed the child to STNM Hospital where he was attended by doctors and found to be in good health conditions and weighs around 2 1/2 kg and is reportedly doing fine.They add it appeared the baby was just a few days old when it was dropped off. She was found on the road between Deorali and Gangtok. Police now hope to find the mother to get her the proper post-natal care.
Anyone with information about the mother is asked to contact the SikkimPolice Department.
All calls will remain confidential.
Sikkim Government Protests 2 hours NH-31A blockade
Gangtok: Government of Sikkim through a press release issue by IPR has communicated its displeasure over the proposed 2 hours NH-31A road blockage at Labarbotey near Melli under Kalimpong subdivision by various Lepcha associations of Darjeeling,West Bengal.The Government of Sikkim has informed that such blockade would cause severe problems to tourists and people of Sikkim and is uncalled for.
Government of Sikkim has lodged its protests to Government of West Bengal who is yet to respond to call for 2 hours road blockage call in support of 21 days old hunger-strike by members of Affected Citizens of Teesta .
No Labour Colony With In The Dzongu Region
Panan Hydel Project does not fall within the KNP & its Biosphere Reserve, says Sikkim Power Deptt.
Gangtok:In the year 2003, Government of India launched a policy of adding 50,000 MW Hydel Capacity in the Country. This was because the hydel thermal mix in the country had been eroded considerably to affect the power system adversely. India has a large hydro potential concentrated mostly in the Himalayan States in the North and North-Eastern Region of the Country. In spite of this, an elaborate procedures entailing a number of clearances rendered any hydel scheme, a difficult proposal to start with. This had over the years, slowed down the capacity addition in hydro generation. To achieve the set target of 50,000 MW, Government of India simplified these procedures and private investors were invited to invest in hydel projects.Sikkim has been endowed with very high hydro potential, which is estimated to be 8,000 MW. Proper harnessing of this potential could transform the potential into very stable revenue source. Government of Sikkim in keeping in line with the policy of the Government of India took a series of steps towards developing viable projects in the State. A total of 26 projects with a total capacity of 4747 MW have been allotted to IPPs.280 MW Panan Project in Dzongu Area of North Sikkim is one of the 26 projects. This is being developed by Himagiri Hydro Energy Pvt. Limited. The project has been awarded in BOOT Arrangement under Joint Venture and the State Government will have 26% Equity Shares. The State will get 12% free power for 12 years after which the free power share will be raised to 15% till the end of 35th year. The project will be reverted back to the State at the end of the 35th year.The project has been given environmental clearance by the Ministry of Environment & Forest, Government of India. As a special safeguard for the preservation of Lepcha Culture, Ministry of Environment & Forest, Government of India has put a rider while giving environment clearance, which bars the developer to set up any labour colony within the Dzongu region.A section of public have expressed their apprehensions that the project area encroaches Khanchendzonga ‘National Park and its buffer zones designated for its Biosphere Reserve. This is to clarify that none of the project components of Panan Hydel Project falls within the Khanchendzonga National Park and its Biosphere Reserve. With the development of the project, its Catchment Area Treatment Plan has to be implemented, which shall be done by the State Forest Department at the cost of the developer.All possible measures have been taken to ensure that the damage to the ecology is mitigated.
Pakyong MPCS joins Sikkim State Green Mission
Pakyong:The Pakyong Multi Purpose Cooperative Society carried out avenue plantation from Dal Gaon to Kartok, according to a press release received from Assistant Registrar, Cooperation Department. 160 ornamental plants namely; Chap (Tetha Chap and Rani Chap), Cherry, Chandan and Dhupi were planted.This programme was attended by Area MLA, Mrs.Manita Mangar, President of Pakyong MPCS, Mr.P.N.Kazi, SDM (Pakyong,), officials and staff of Cooperation and Forest Departments and ward panchayats. The Area MLA in her address appreciated the Pakyong MPCS for participating in the State Green Mission. She also requested the society to ensure protection of the plants as there is every possibility of plants getting destroyed during the carpeting works of Kartok Road, which is yet to be completed. Earlier, Mr.P.N.Kazi in his welcome address, highlighted the activities of the Pakyong MPCS and agricultural loans that the Society has been giving to its members. He also stressed on the quality of plantation rather than quantity and the protection of the same. He further assured to ensure full protection to the plants.The Registrar also applauded the initiative taken by the Pakyong MPCS in supporting the Government’s mission of a green state and to make Sikkim a tourist destination. He laid emphasis on the importance of social fencing and informed that the number of plants and the rate of survival would be reflected in the Audit Report of the Pakyong MPCS
PIX OF THE DAY
Bhaichung Bhutia married Madhuri Tipnis in December 2004.
The wedding was arranged in the picturesque Bhutia basti where he grew up.
Landslides in Rural West Sikkim
Geyzing: Incessant overnight downpour has triggered massive landslide sat Nambu and Topung villages near Rimbi under Yuks om constituency, causing major damages to houses there and severing road connectivity from Darap to Nambu.The heavy rain also caused the streams in these areas to break their banks,wreaking havoc on the agricultural fields alongside.Landslip damages were also reported from Seingpheng and Darap Villages also under Yuks om.
The affected areas were surveyed and damages assessed by Quick Response Team of Sikkim government and immediate releif measures were handed out to the affected families.
At Nambu, which lies at 22KM distance from Geyzing, a two storied pukka house of Mingma Tshering Bhutia and two storied concrete building of Lakchung Tshering Bhutia stand precariously above a massive landslide which occured night before.The slip portion belowthe house shave been covered with tarpaulin sheets for safety and Nambu Dispensary Center has been arranged as temporary housing of both affected families.
Mr.Mingma Tshering Bhutia has also sustained damages to his maize and cardamom plantations due to landslide.
Electric supply to villages has been interrupted as electric poles were washed away in the landslides.
NEPAL SINGER KUNTI MOKTAN TO PERFORM IN SINGTAM
Singtam:The Moktans—Shila Bahadur Moktan, Kunti Moktan and daughters Shital and Shuvani—are undoubtedly the most prominent family in the Nepali music industry today. Composer Shila Bahadur and wife Kunti, who started their careers singing for All India Radio, definitely need no introduction. They've carved a niche for themselves in the industry and the work they've done in their long careers are widely known and appreciated. Their daughters, Shital and Shuvani, too entered the industry two years ago with their debut "Pahilo Maya" that won them the Hits fm Best New Artist Award but the girls had started long before with performances on NTV and Radio Nepal.
Kunti Moktan, who dwells in the soft corner of thousands of Nepalese hearts, needs no introduction to the listeners of Nepali music. Her folk based classical songs are very popular. She is known to the audience as an artiste with a melodious voice, who has been singing for the last two decades.Moktan's musical career started from Darjeeling. During her childhood, when she studied at St. Xavier's' School, Darjeeling, she used to sing songs at the school programs.
The people of Sikkim will have unique opportunity to watch Kunti Moktan perform live in the Singtam Bhanu Jayanti programme on friday,July 13,2007.
Singtam Bhanu Jayanti celebration was inaugurated yesterday by Shri Bhim Dungel,MLA
DAY 21: TIME TO ACT
Gangtok:Its now three weeks since the indefinite hunger strike by Members of ACT led by Dawa Lepcha and Tenzing Lepcha began.Tashi Lepcha, Pempa Lepcha and Mingma Lepcha from Burtuk along with Kalzang Lepcha and Dawa Tshering Lepcha from Dzongu have also joined the indefinite hunger strike today .
As pointed out in its editorial today Now Daily! Time has come to stress the point that three week hunger strike led by Dawa and Tenzing have succeeded in highlighting the issue of power projects in north Sikkim. Now the primary issue should shift towards the concern for health and well being of the strikers like the original duo of Dawa & Tenzing and their well wishers and coordinator & Ad visors of ACT should now rethink and response to the call of withdrawal of hunger-strike without any conditions and restart a more result oriented and fruitful discussion with Government of day which would be certainly more than accountable to the points and problems put forth in last 21 days as it is led by none other than the man who has been not so long ago was awarded as "Greenest CM" and well known for his concern and care for the environment in the true sense of word.
Video: LIVING A DREAM IN GANGTOK
LIVING A DREAM: for the hopefuls, the Guard ground in Gangtok is still the place to harness their skills.
Sikkim waiting for its next Baichung Bhutia
Gangtok: A visit to Gangtok's only surviving football ground is an uplifting experience. This is a ground that's produced the most successful Indian footballer of the modern era - Baichung Bhutia. CNN-IBN's Arijit Sen paid a visit and saw for himself how the footballers are managing their skills, and also their dreams beautifully.
It's a shrill whistle that awoke the Sikkimese Sniper years ago, at this very ground, as he started off on his quest. And even as Baichung Bhutia went on to be Indian football's biggest star, the Gath Ground today lies in wait for the next Baichung to emerge.
"In Sikkim, football is our passion, and Baichung Bhutia has become a superstar of the country, so we are proud of him. All of us like to be like Baichung Bhutia now," says Serap Lama, a former East Bengal player himself.
Sikkim's jewel in the crown - the Governor's Gold Cup - is history. But for the hopefuls, this is still the place to harness their beautiful skills, hoping someday they could strike it big.
"You can see there are more than a hundred people coming to practise here. So it's difficult to practise here," Serap Lama adds.
It's a shrill whistle that awoke the Sikkimese Sniper years ago, at this very ground, as he started off on his quest. And even as Baichung Bhutia went on to be Indian football's biggest star, the Gath Ground today lies in wait for the next Baichung to emerge.
"In Sikkim, football is our passion, and Baichung Bhutia has become a superstar of the country, so we are proud of him. All of us like to be like Baichung Bhutia now," says Serap Lama, a former East Bengal player himself.
Sikkim's jewel in the crown - the Governor's Gold Cup - is history. But for the hopefuls, this is still the place to harness their beautiful skills, hoping someday they could strike it big.
"You can see there are more than a hundred people coming to practise here. So it's difficult to practise here," Serap Lama adds.
(CNN_IBN)
2 Hours blockage of NH 31 at Kalimpong tomorrow
Kalimpong:Lepcha associations from Kalimpong, Darjeeling and Kurseong sub-divisions of West Bengal's Darjeeling district will block the NH 31 A tomorrow for two hours protesting against the mega power projects at Dzongu in North Sikkim.NH 31 A is the life line of the Sikkim that connects it with rest of the country. The road blockade would be held at Labarbotey near Melli under Kalimpong subdivision. ''Lepcha associations from all parts of Darjeeling district will be participating tomorrow in the blockade,''Kalimpong Lepcha Association President Ajuk Lepcha said.The traffic would be brought to a grinding halt in the two-hour long blockade, he added. However, emergency services like ambulances, police and army vehicles would be allowed to ply.''Dzongu is a holy place, where our age old culture and traditions are still intact. We believe that our souls rest here after death.We will not tolerate any dislocation and threat to this place,'' Mr Lepcha reiterated.He said the six mega power projects proposed in Dzongu by the Sikkim government and private developers would pose threat to the people and biodiversity.Protest against the projects in Sikkim were on with the hunger strike, launched by Affected Citizens of Sikkim, reaching its 21st day today.
Trainning for unemployed educated youths of Sikkim
GANGTOK: The three-day crash course on tourism for the unemployed educated youths of East Sikkim began at Lower Sichey, on the outskirts of Gangtok, yesterday. The training programme, organised by Sikkim Association of Adventure Tour Operators (SAATO), is funded by the zilla panchayat of East district. The three main recourse persons are Mr PK Dong, former director of Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation, Mrs Usha Lachungpa from state forest department and Mr Gundrung Bhutia from state ecclesiastical department.
Addressing the participants, Mr Dong, said: "Honesty, politeness and humbleness are the three important aspects of tourism business. Tourism is the only profit-earning industry in Sikkim. The educated unemployed youths of the state should join the tourism business for a bright future."Mr KN Pradhan, zilla adhyaksha, East district, said: "Instead of looking for government jobs, the unemployed youths should concentrate on self-employment. The ongoing training programme is aimed at acquainting the youths with the basics of tourism business." The training programme has been divided into two sections ~ theory and practical. "In theory, we will teach the participants how to become tourist guides, besides informing them about learning birds, butterfly, vegetation and flora and fauna," said Mr KC Denzongpa, vice president of SAATO. "We will also take the participants for trekking to Ranka, Rumtek, Adampool, Tadong and Tashi View Point," he added.
Addressing the participants, Mr Dong, said: "Honesty, politeness and humbleness are the three important aspects of tourism business. Tourism is the only profit-earning industry in Sikkim. The educated unemployed youths of the state should join the tourism business for a bright future."Mr KN Pradhan, zilla adhyaksha, East district, said: "Instead of looking for government jobs, the unemployed youths should concentrate on self-employment. The ongoing training programme is aimed at acquainting the youths with the basics of tourism business." The training programme has been divided into two sections ~ theory and practical. "In theory, we will teach the participants how to become tourist guides, besides informing them about learning birds, butterfly, vegetation and flora and fauna," said Mr KC Denzongpa, vice president of SAATO. "We will also take the participants for trekking to Ranka, Rumtek, Adampool, Tadong and Tashi View Point," he added.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
The strike continues despite talks with Sikkim Government
Sikkim government insisting on an unconditional withdrawal of the hunger strike
Gangtok-With the government insisting on an unconditional withdrawal of the hunger strike, the protest demanding scrapping of over half-a-dozen hydel power projects of Dzongu in North Sikkim entered the 20th day. The Affected Citizens of Teesta (ACT), an organisation fighting for the cause of the people inhabiting the protected Lepcha reserve of Dzongu where seven hydel power projects are coming up over the River Teesta, have been on a relay hunger strike here since June 20 against their implementation. “We are determined to continue our strike until a concrete solution to the problem is offered by the State Government,” chief coordinator of the organisation Tseten Lepcha told PTI here today. The State Government’s efforts to persuade the ACT to withdraw the strike have so far been fruitless as two rounds of talks held earlier with the strikers remained inconclusive. “They (State Government) have been asking us to withdraw the strike unconditionally but this is impossible as we are committed to ensure that the people we are fighting for get justice,” Lepcha said. The strikers have been demanding scrapping of all the seven projects planned for the Dzongu region because of their adverse impact on the environment and the culture of the Lepchas, the most primitive tribe inhabiting the region. Countering the State Government’s argument that these projects will boost the economy of the region, Lepcha said they were very small-scale projects hardly capable of making much difference to the economy of the region. “But these projects will definitely harm the fragile ecology of the region and the culture of the Lepchas by causing a huge influx of labour force from outside the State,” the ACT chief coordinator said. Many of these projects fell inside the Kanchenjungha National Park and in the area identified as its biosphere reserve, he claimed, adding that these projects would gradually deplete the limited water resources of the area.
– PTI
Sikkim Government To Help Sikkim Media
Gangtok: Shri M.G.Kiran,IAS Secretary to the Information and Public Relation department of Government of Sikkim in a meeting held today with representatives of newly elected body of Press Club of Sikkim has assured all help and co-operation to the newspapers and publications from Sikkim by way of releasing display advertisements on occasion of Bhanu Jayanti & Independence Day including to those newspapers who are yet to obtain a RNI registration with government of India.
He have asked all the newspapers to start initiative on their own in obtaining a RNI registration .IPR department will also help by recommending their cases for registration and also depute a IPR team to New Delhi for enabling an early processing of newspaper registration from Sikkim. Secretary also encouraged existing newspapers in print as well as electronic media to improve standard of media as a whole in Sikkim.
IPR department would also arrange to supply all the books and magazines for library proposed to be set up by the Press Club of Sikkim including arranging a free allotment of radio frequency for better and faster Internet connectivity. further, Government of Sikkim would also contribute to a fund proposed to be set up and managed by Sikkim Press Club in helping local journalists in need of financial assistance. Government would also try to launch educational courses at Sikkim Government College in field of Journalism and Media.
Secretary has assured to give top priority to constructive suggestions forwarded to his department by Press Council of Sikkim
Bhanubhakta‘s birth anniversary celebrations begins in Sikkim
भानु काव्य सन्ध्या-२०६४
Singtam:Bhanu Bhakta was the first Nepali, who translated the Ramayana (Hindu's holy book) written in Sanskrit into Nepali language. The Nepali Ramayana was modestly written that every Nepali would understood. He had also written many Nepali poems, that are inspirational & legendary. Thus Bhanu Jayanti is celebrated as tribute to this great poet in Sikkim.
Birth anniversary celebrations of late poet Bhanubhakta Acharya in Sikkim, slated for Friday has commenced in Sikkim with a colourful cultural dance competition and event of recital of Ramayana in a function held at Singtam today and attended by local dignitaries and cross cultural crowd.The winners of today's dance competition will be performing on the main event to be organised on July 13,2007.The poet’s birthday is observed with great fanfare every year by Nepali-speaking people across India.The 54 groups participated in two categories of dance competition at Singtam Bhanu Jayanti Celebration programmed inaugurated by MLA Bhim Dhungel .Inter-school dance category was won by Tikalal Nirula School of Pandam and Inter-organisations dance category won by Lower-Naphiphung.
2007 Bhanu Jayanti at Namchi,Sikkim
Namchi: A prominent writer,social worker and retired teacher B.K.Shrestha of the Assangthang, South Sikkim has been selected for the"Shiva Kumar Rai Smriti Puraskar 2006-07" in recognition of his contribution to the field of the literature.
Mr.Shrestha's name was shortlisted and decided unanimously at a meeting of the Dakshin Sikkim Sahitya Sammelan held on July 06 here at Nam chi, by a selection committee comprising of Indira Stephen,Dasrath Kharel,DB Subba,CM Dahal and Kamal Sapkota.
Similarly, Anita Moktan of Namchi has been selected for the "Agam Singh Prativa Puraskar 2006-07"by a selection committee which was chaired by Lopsang Lama.Ms. Anita Moktan is an aspiring singerand was second runners-up in the Himalayan Idol talent hunt as well as the second runner-up in Swar Sikkim 2007.
The awards will be conferred during the Bhanu Jayanti Celebrations of July13,2007 at the Namchi Community Hall.The awards consists of a cash reward along with a shawl and certificate of appreciation.
The meeting held at Namchi Conference Hall of District Administration Center,also included a review of the Bhanu Jayanti Celebration Committee. The meeting was attended by the Zilla Upadyaksha(S) BM Rai, DC (South) D.Anandan,ADC Yashoda Bhandari,SIRD Director Santa Pradhan, the district head and members of Dakshin Sikkim Sahitya Sammelan.
DAY 20 - Sikkim indefinite hunger strike by ACT
Gangtok:The indefinite hunger strike by Satyagrahis and Members of ACT led by Dawa Lepcha and 20 yr old Tenzing Lepcha enters its 20Th day with no proper response from the Government in sight.
Like the other days, more satyagrahis have joined the hunger strike. They are Pema Lepcha, Tenzing Lepcha, Dawa Lepcha, Pema Lepcha, Nima Lepcha, Renol Lepcha, Chandra Lal Gautam, Arjun Kumar Poudyal, Birbal Mangar and Pema Lepcha.
Tenzing Lepcha is still in STNM hospital.
The editorial of Gangtok's popular and best English Daily, Now! wrote on the need to recognise and appreciate the conviction of Dawa, Tenzing and the rest of the members on hunger strike rather than figures of families who have given their assent to land acquisition. Two young men have gone hungry and sacrificed their future health and almost everything in trying to bring attention among the people of Sikkim about the dangers of big mega hydel projects, and their neighbours only ridicule them with figures!
Like the other days, more satyagrahis have joined the hunger strike. They are Pema Lepcha, Tenzing Lepcha, Dawa Lepcha, Pema Lepcha, Nima Lepcha, Renol Lepcha, Chandra Lal Gautam, Arjun Kumar Poudyal, Birbal Mangar and Pema Lepcha.
Tenzing Lepcha is still in STNM hospital.
The editorial of Gangtok's popular and best English Daily, Now! wrote on the need to recognise and appreciate the conviction of Dawa, Tenzing and the rest of the members on hunger strike rather than figures of families who have given their assent to land acquisition. Two young men have gone hungry and sacrificed their future health and almost everything in trying to bring attention among the people of Sikkim about the dangers of big mega hydel projects, and their neighbours only ridicule them with figures!
(courtesy:Weeping Sikkim Blog)
Cleanliness Drive @ 17,800 feet in North Sikkim
North Sikkim: The Lachen Tourism Development committee has undertaken a series of cleanliness drive and awareness campaign at various tourist spots in surrounding areas of Lachen and beyond.With the end of first tourist season of 2007, many of these hot and popular destinations were conspicuous with a litter of bottles,wrappers and other garbage left behind by tourists and thus, in a welcome move, a drive to clean-up these areas before the onset of another season was launched by Committee members and locals as informed by Joint Secretary Chewang Lachenpa of Committee.
The members have already conducted cleanliness drive at Lachen and surrounding areas on July04 which included cleaning of drainage and roadsides and similar initiatives were also taken launched in Thangu,Chop ta, and Gurudongmar lake on July 05.
"This is the first time a social cleanliness drive was undertaken at the height of 17,800feet of Gurudongmar Lake, one of the holy lakes in sikkim ,is perched"Mr. Lachenpa pointed-out.
Dr. Chamling Returns After Tour
Gangtok: Chief Minister of Sikkim Dr.Pawan Chamling who was away from state for a month on US tour has returned back to Sikkim yesterday .Chief Minister after a flight from New Delhi has reached to Namchi and he is expected to arrive in capital Gangtok after couple of days. Senior Minister D.D.Bhutia was officiating as an acting CM in absence of Dr. Chamling who's return was highly awaited in light of on-going 20 days old hunger-strike by ACT against hydro projects in Dzongu, north sikkim.The appropriate decision on the demands of ACT members could now be taken by state government as Chief Minister has returned from the tour .
Sikkimese Association for Environment (SAFE)
Support for hydel power protests
Gangtok: Members of the recently formed Sikkimese Association for Environment (SAFE) today submitted a memorandum to governor V. Rama Rao, asking for a quick resolution to the row over the mega hydroelectric projects in Dzongu, North Sikkim.
The umbrella organisation, SAFE, was formed to lend support to the indefinite hunger strike led by members of Affected Citizens of Teesta at B.L. House here to protest against the projects. The hunger strike has entered its 20th day.
Today, the members of SAFE asked the governor to order departmental inquiries into the on-going and proposed hydel power projects. The reports, they said, must include inputs from World Wildlife Fund and the departments of mines and geology, and forest and wildlife.
The governor was also asked to order a CBI probe into the “irregularities” and “illegalities” in the execution of all existing power projects in Sikkim. The members said if the governor did not initiate prompt action, they would stage a statewide satyagraha including demonstrations on the lawns of the Raj Bhavan.
“Land acquisition is not the only issue here. The entire North Sikkim’s environment has been endangered because of the projects,” said T. Lachungpa, a member of SAFE, countering the claims of the Dzongu MLA, Sonam Gyatso Lepcha, that some landowners of the area were willing to give up their land for the projects
The umbrella organisation, SAFE, was formed to lend support to the indefinite hunger strike led by members of Affected Citizens of Teesta at B.L. House here to protest against the projects. The hunger strike has entered its 20th day.
Today, the members of SAFE asked the governor to order departmental inquiries into the on-going and proposed hydel power projects. The reports, they said, must include inputs from World Wildlife Fund and the departments of mines and geology, and forest and wildlife.
The governor was also asked to order a CBI probe into the “irregularities” and “illegalities” in the execution of all existing power projects in Sikkim. The members said if the governor did not initiate prompt action, they would stage a statewide satyagraha including demonstrations on the lawns of the Raj Bhavan.
“Land acquisition is not the only issue here. The entire North Sikkim’s environment has been endangered because of the projects,” said T. Lachungpa, a member of SAFE, countering the claims of the Dzongu MLA, Sonam Gyatso Lepcha, that some landowners of the area were willing to give up their land for the projects
Lepchas to block NH 31 to support sikkim protests
Trouble ahead of Teesta dams
Kalimpong, July 9:The movement against NHPC’s Teesta Low Dam Projects here has received a shot in the arm by the protests in Sikkim against the mega hydel power projects coming up in the Lepcha reserve of Dzongu.
Rong Ong Prongzom, the Kalimpong-based organisation of Lepcha youths, today announced that it would block NH 31A on Wednesday to express their solidarity with the Sikkim protesters.
The Siliguri-based North Eastern Society for Preservation of Nature, on the other hand, has decided to organise village meetings to get the community’s opinion on the Teesta low dams, which are in various stages of implementation. The Society believes that it is important to ask people about the projects now when their adverse effects on the environment have become evident.
“We can show the people how scientific studies were bypassed by NHPC,” said Society secretary Saumitra Ghosh.
The Society is in touch with Affected Citizens of Teesta, which is leading the Dzongu protests, as well as the Kalimpong-based NH 31A Bachao Committee.
A sustained campaign by the Committee has recently resulted in the Union surface transport ministry asking the Geological Survey of India to investigate the landslides on NH 31A, which many believe are caused by the NHPC projects.
Rong Ong Prongzom, the Kalimpong-based organisation of Lepcha youths, today announced that it would block NH 31A on Wednesday to express their solidarity with the Sikkim protesters.
The Siliguri-based North Eastern Society for Preservation of Nature, on the other hand, has decided to organise village meetings to get the community’s opinion on the Teesta low dams, which are in various stages of implementation. The Society believes that it is important to ask people about the projects now when their adverse effects on the environment have become evident.
“We can show the people how scientific studies were bypassed by NHPC,” said Society secretary Saumitra Ghosh.
The Society is in touch with Affected Citizens of Teesta, which is leading the Dzongu protests, as well as the Kalimpong-based NH 31A Bachao Committee.
A sustained campaign by the Committee has recently resulted in the Union surface transport ministry asking the Geological Survey of India to investigate the landslides on NH 31A, which many believe are caused by the NHPC projects.
Monday, July 09, 2007
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Boy-wizard makes a stunning return
Harry's back, and he's intense. It's the logical next step in a phenomenal franchise, writes Jim Schembri.
HARRY Potter may still be a boy, but he sure isn't just a kid with a wand any more.
The nervous, bespectacled cherub from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001) is now a tall, strapping, aggressive young man with moral purpose, revenge on his mind and a killer aim when it comes to casting spells at point-blank range.
In his latest fantasy adventure, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, the fifth and easily the best film in the franchise, Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) makes good on those hints in earlier films that he has what it takes to stand up and throw down.
And things are getting serious for Harry. Phoenix has a few touches of humour early, but the breeziness that laced the previous films has been replaced with a darker, more brooding tone. Phoenix is similar in feel to Star Wars Episode III: The Revenge of the Sith, which is appropriate. Both films are about personal transformation.
In Phoenix, Harry and his friends Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) and Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) are faced with the rise of two separate, equally daunting evils.
First, there is the return of Harry's noseless nemesis Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes), who is eager to start a full-fledged war against the wizards and witches of Hogwarts. (Voldemort is the supernatural cad who murdered Harry's parents and gave him the lightning-bolt scar on his forehead.) Voldemort might be able to both read Harry's mind and control it.
Then there is the new teacher at Hogwarts, Dolores Umbridge (Imelda Staunton). She is a prim, short woman who dresses immaculately in two-tone pink and has a disturbing fetish for cats. She is also a first-class hag who has been installed into the school by the Ministry of Magic to undermine the authority of headmaster Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) by imposing harsh strictures on the student body.
Staunton (Oscar-nominated for her performance in 2004's Vera Drake) does such a great job stealing scenes in Phoenix it becomes hard to tell which is scarier — the merciless, all-powerful, soul-destroying evil wizard — or the smiling, softly spoken bureaucrat who insists that everything be done by the book.
Both these satanic forces impel Harry to rebel. In preparation for the war, he begins training his own army. Along the way, Harry has to deal with his inner demons, which he must learn to control, lest his behaviour be driven by impulse. Apparently Yoda from Star Wars worked on the film as a consultant.
Based on the phenomenally successful series of books by UK author J. K. Rowling, the Harry Potter films have earned a combined box-office gross of more than $US3.5 billion ($A4.08 billion). Two key factors account for this.
First, the Harry Potter films contain all the requisite visual dazzle and special effects excess now considered mandatory for any blockbuster film series that costs $200 million a throw. In that regard Phoenix does not disappoint.
Second, the films have given a new generation of filmgoers a hero they can literally grow up with. Being the same age as his fans has given Harry Potter — and Radcliffe — a special connection with the audiences who have watched him develop, just as they have.
It's a bond no other big-screen cinema hero can boast. And with at least three more Potter films to come, nothing short of Voldemort can stop him.
Not bad for a kid with a wand.
HARRY Potter may still be a boy, but he sure isn't just a kid with a wand any more.
The nervous, bespectacled cherub from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001) is now a tall, strapping, aggressive young man with moral purpose, revenge on his mind and a killer aim when it comes to casting spells at point-blank range.
In his latest fantasy adventure, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, the fifth and easily the best film in the franchise, Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) makes good on those hints in earlier films that he has what it takes to stand up and throw down.
And things are getting serious for Harry. Phoenix has a few touches of humour early, but the breeziness that laced the previous films has been replaced with a darker, more brooding tone. Phoenix is similar in feel to Star Wars Episode III: The Revenge of the Sith, which is appropriate. Both films are about personal transformation.
In Phoenix, Harry and his friends Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) and Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) are faced with the rise of two separate, equally daunting evils.
First, there is the return of Harry's noseless nemesis Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes), who is eager to start a full-fledged war against the wizards and witches of Hogwarts. (Voldemort is the supernatural cad who murdered Harry's parents and gave him the lightning-bolt scar on his forehead.) Voldemort might be able to both read Harry's mind and control it.
Then there is the new teacher at Hogwarts, Dolores Umbridge (Imelda Staunton). She is a prim, short woman who dresses immaculately in two-tone pink and has a disturbing fetish for cats. She is also a first-class hag who has been installed into the school by the Ministry of Magic to undermine the authority of headmaster Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) by imposing harsh strictures on the student body.
Staunton (Oscar-nominated for her performance in 2004's Vera Drake) does such a great job stealing scenes in Phoenix it becomes hard to tell which is scarier — the merciless, all-powerful, soul-destroying evil wizard — or the smiling, softly spoken bureaucrat who insists that everything be done by the book.
Both these satanic forces impel Harry to rebel. In preparation for the war, he begins training his own army. Along the way, Harry has to deal with his inner demons, which he must learn to control, lest his behaviour be driven by impulse. Apparently Yoda from Star Wars worked on the film as a consultant.
Based on the phenomenally successful series of books by UK author J. K. Rowling, the Harry Potter films have earned a combined box-office gross of more than $US3.5 billion ($A4.08 billion). Two key factors account for this.
First, the Harry Potter films contain all the requisite visual dazzle and special effects excess now considered mandatory for any blockbuster film series that costs $200 million a throw. In that regard Phoenix does not disappoint.
Second, the films have given a new generation of filmgoers a hero they can literally grow up with. Being the same age as his fans has given Harry Potter — and Radcliffe — a special connection with the audiences who have watched him develop, just as they have.
It's a bond no other big-screen cinema hero can boast. And with at least three more Potter films to come, nothing short of Voldemort can stop him.
Not bad for a kid with a wand.
‘Revamp Nathu La trade list’
Nathula/Gangtok: “Our ancestors used to sell yak tails but does it still have a market? Even wool is a thing of the past,” grumbles Passang Bhutia from Pharey in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) in China.
His sentiments are echoed not only by Chinese traders but Indians traders too, who are finding it increasingly difficult to import goods from TAR through Nathu La. Their bugbear the import-export list.
With goat and sheep skin, wool, raw silk, yak tail, yak hair, china clay, borax, Seaibelyipe, butter, Kashmiri goat and common salt on it, the import list for India is clearly medieval. These are items India used to import in the days of the old Silk Route. This misfit of a trade list also leads to other problems.
Since the Chinese government has not imposed a trade list of any sort, TAR traders arrive with truckloads of Chinese commodities like flasks, electronic goods, garments and blankets items hugely popular in India.
But India cannot look beyond its import-export list. The result: at the end of the day, TAR traders return home with all their goods.This year, with trade commencing on the May 1, only 60 kg silk and 47 pieces of yak tail have been imported.
“We are not interested in trading in the enlisted items. They should change the list and include Chinese flasks, soup bowls, clothes, shoes, carpets and electronic items,” says Passang.
Chinney Rinzing, an Indian trader and president of the Indo-China Traders Association of Sikkim, nods in agreement.
He says that Chinese traders constantly complain that all the buying that takes place is by Chinese traders. “They press us to barter goods. But we were helpless. If we buy the goods, we will not be allowed to bring them back to India by customs officials as these goods don’t feature in the list,” he says.
Rinzing suggests that India either declare free trade or if it is bent on dubbing this border trade, allow trade in all goods available or indigenous to the borders.
All trade organisations related to this border trade feel the same. “During 1954-62, we used to export everything from Sikkim to Tibet. In fact, Nathu La took the load of more than 80 per cent of the freight traffic between Sikkim and Tibet.
When business reopened after 44 years, we were surprised to see we could deal in only 15 items for import and 29 items for export.
The list is too restrictive and it must be expanded,” says Sikkim Chamber of Commerce president SK Sarda.
The only ray of hope: Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industries Jairam Ramesh on June 27 had said the import-export list would definitely be expanded.
His sentiments are echoed not only by Chinese traders but Indians traders too, who are finding it increasingly difficult to import goods from TAR through Nathu La. Their bugbear the import-export list.
With goat and sheep skin, wool, raw silk, yak tail, yak hair, china clay, borax, Seaibelyipe, butter, Kashmiri goat and common salt on it, the import list for India is clearly medieval. These are items India used to import in the days of the old Silk Route. This misfit of a trade list also leads to other problems.
Since the Chinese government has not imposed a trade list of any sort, TAR traders arrive with truckloads of Chinese commodities like flasks, electronic goods, garments and blankets items hugely popular in India.
But India cannot look beyond its import-export list. The result: at the end of the day, TAR traders return home with all their goods.This year, with trade commencing on the May 1, only 60 kg silk and 47 pieces of yak tail have been imported.
“We are not interested in trading in the enlisted items. They should change the list and include Chinese flasks, soup bowls, clothes, shoes, carpets and electronic items,” says Passang.
Chinney Rinzing, an Indian trader and president of the Indo-China Traders Association of Sikkim, nods in agreement.
He says that Chinese traders constantly complain that all the buying that takes place is by Chinese traders. “They press us to barter goods. But we were helpless. If we buy the goods, we will not be allowed to bring them back to India by customs officials as these goods don’t feature in the list,” he says.
Rinzing suggests that India either declare free trade or if it is bent on dubbing this border trade, allow trade in all goods available or indigenous to the borders.
All trade organisations related to this border trade feel the same. “During 1954-62, we used to export everything from Sikkim to Tibet. In fact, Nathu La took the load of more than 80 per cent of the freight traffic between Sikkim and Tibet.
When business reopened after 44 years, we were surprised to see we could deal in only 15 items for import and 29 items for export.
The list is too restrictive and it must be expanded,” says Sikkim Chamber of Commerce president SK Sarda.
The only ray of hope: Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industries Jairam Ramesh on June 27 had said the import-export list would definitely be expanded.
( Hindustan Times)
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