Students in Sikkim Hostels anxious and worried lot

GANGTOK, 21 Sept: As panic spread across the state, anxiety rose high among both, parents and college and school students residing in hostels here. Disrupted phone connectivity making it impossible to communicate and get information of the conditions on either side.
With most buildings damaged, a number of such hostels across the state have been evacuated. The Scheduled Caste Girls’ Hostel of Sikkim Government College, situated at Gairigaon, Tadong has developed numerous cracks mostly on the second and third floor of the building. The hostel has 25 residents, all of whom left the hostel yesterday to stay with their local guardians.

Sikkim University’s Cauveri Girls’ hostel at Tadong, also bears a number of cracks on the lower floors which has scared the students into spending the nights at the mess hall, TV room and study room located on the floor at the road level.
A day after the earthquake hit the state, some students have shifted back to their rooms while others are still too scared to return.
“We are still scared and not ready to go back to our rooms,” said Anupriya, a 1st year Psychology student at SU, preferring to sit outside, in the open, in front of the hostel along with other girls.
The hostel has 91 residents, with quite a sizeable number of them from outside the state. Students from Bhutan, Nagaland, Assam, West Bengal also reside at the hostel. Most students managed to get in touch with their parents, only a day after the earthquake when telecom connectivity resumed.
The Sikkim University boys’ hostel located near Smile Land, Marchak, which houses around 60 students, has also suffered some severe damages.
Shakti Dutraj, a student at the university suffered a head injury while he was trying to escape as bricks started falling off the walls. Some students were at the Internet Cafe located on the top floor where two walls collapsed injuring another student. Around, four students of the hostel were injured in the earthquake.
Debrajhya Mukerjee, a hosteller, informed that after the quake, the boys left the hostel and took shelter at the Sikkim Science Centre at Marchak for the night. The next day, they came to the girls hostel at Tadong from where they have been shifted to a building near the girls’ hostel from today.
Sikkim University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Mahendra P Lama, met the students in this evening to reassure the students and said that they will be shifted back to the hostel when the University feels it is safe to do so.
The mid-term examinations scheduled to begin from 26 Sept will take place as planned, he informed
Meanwhile in West Sikkim, the ground floor of Soreng Secondary School’s girls’ hostel has been completely damaged and all 40 girl students have been evacuated and shifted to a temporary tin shed at the school’s premises.
The hostel used to provide free accommodation for these girls mostly from remote villages who now cannot return to their homes as walking to school everyday is not possible.
Here in the capital’s Tashi Namgyal Academy, it was prep time for the hostellers when the quake hit. Girl students were in the classrooms at one of the school buildings when they felt the tremors. According to the hostel matron, some of the seniors, having seen videos of the earthquake in Japan, instructed the juniors to hide under the tables. A make-shift shelter at the basketball court is where they spent the night.
“Although I couldn’t get in touch with my family in Dzongu immediately, my uncle here called to see if I was fine and also informed me that my family was fine,” said girls hostel captain, Marmit Lepcha.
A man from Lachen visited the school to enquire about students from the village since there was no communication, informed the hostel matron.
The hostel at Taktse International School here managed to post facebook updates on the night of the earthquake itself reassuring anxious parents and guardians that wards at the hostel were safe and well attended to. Most schools could not do so and the lack of communication was worrying for all concerned.
It has been a nerve-wracking experience for students coming from remote parts of the state and outside the state as most of them could get in touch with their families only a day after the 6.8 magnitude quake hit the state. As damages are being assessed, the question that is emerging is till when will such temporary arrangements hold fort and a permanent solution found.

(TSHERING EDEN for Now Daily)

Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) party takes on Prof. Lama on Sikkim University

Gangtok, July 11: The establishment of Sikkim University in the state is the need for the development of state as a whole and the future generation and the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) party welcomes every statement made by
the opposition in a positive way, were the opening words of General Secretary (SDF) Mr. TN Sharma in a conference held here in capital today. Whereas MP Lok Sabha Mr. PD Rai in his address said that the final phase of acquisition of land for SU is in its way which in itself is a major achievement but it does not help the matters when the SU VC visits the site and tries to coerce the public which he did on 30th June 2010 which is not at all the VC’s look out. Adding more Mr. Rai said that all the matters related to SU when made political does not solve the problem what it has become today and Mr. Rai even thanked the political parties and politically motivated outfits who have dropped their hats in the ring too. Stating more Mr. Rai informed that many of the statements of such people are recorded in a few newspapers is malicious and the SDF party condemns them outright.

The opposing people have proved their commitment to an anti-people agenda, their statement are proof enough of the fact that they have no love for the younger generation and will go to any length to oppose the pro people stance of SDF party added Mr. Rai. Informing more Mr. Rai added that SDF party and its government never wanted to make SU land acquisition an issue but when the VC made the quasi political moves then it became mandatory for us to bring the issues on the ground to the people as after being forced numerous times by the VC act the party had to stand. Mr. Rai further placed queries like what kind of actions have been taken by the university to upgrade the facilities as well as the teaching capability of the colleges, professors and subject content enhancements. Furthermore Mr. Rai said that all this queries are important indicators of the commitments made by the university to provide solid support to the colleges operating in state to enable the children with better quality education and skill sets.SDF Spokesperson Mr. Bhim Dahal in his address said that SDF party and its led government want the construction of SU be completed soon but requests for change in Prof. Lamas behavior towards the Sikkimese people and the state along with a suggestion that he should not address the media often and not to oppose the state governments initiative.

Furthermore Mr. Dahal added that Sikkim state has the potential to become a educational hub and every efforts from the government is made to achieve the same too. The disconnection of Prof. Lama from the people of Sikkim or the government has made the acquisition of land along with the whole process of setting up of the university a tough job but if connected every thing will be easier and smooth added Mr. Dahal.

Adding more Mr. Sharma stated that the allocation of land to SU and the resettlement of the donor’s are being carried out by the State Government but the acquisition of land, allocation has become a major
issue today. SU is established for the people of Sikkim and the generation next but the way SU is operating or functioning under Vice Chancellor (VC) Professor Mahindra P Lama is not at all favoring, benefitting the larger interest of the Sikkimese people in state in context to employment opportunity or academically. Since the inception of SDF party and its government that is since 1994 the establishment of SU was given the highest priority by the visionary Chief Minister also the president of SDF party, Dr Pawan Chamling and due to his determination and approach to the central government SU was granted added Mr. Sharma. Furthermore Mr. Sharma informed that during that time only 50% of the states across the nation had university and upon that if we look as per the population the establishment of SU was never possible, the CM’s plea for establishing SU after holing numerous meet came into existence. Where as the SU, VC Prof. Lama today is unable to meet up to the hopes and aspiration of the Sikkimese people at all informed Mr. Sharma. Mr. Sharma stating more said that acquisition of land is a sensitive issue across the nation today and in Sikkim a major one due to the existence of old laws but the instance of Prof. Lama that was initiated on 30th June 2010 when he along with his group visited the site and threatened the inhabitants the acquisition process was hampered totally. Reacting to the behaviour the local inhabitants of the land acquired site at Yangyang even conducted a press meet and opposed Dr. Lama’s act.Addressing upon the employment opportunity provided to locals Mr. Sharma said that there are 92 professors currently educating the students in SU but of that only one is local whereas in regards to students admitted stated that there are a total of 225 students availing their Post Graduation course from SU where only 21 students are locals. The SU is started to facilitated the children’s of state with best of education along with quality but the process catered in the university for local students to avail admission is tough and due to which the students are moving out to other states for studies which is totally against the concept the SDF party or the Government had dreamed off.Adding more Mr. Sharma stated that the state government started a college at West Sikkim which was not availed with affiliation from SU which the SDF led government opposes and in context to admission the entrance test for the candidates of Sikkim are set where as 5%
reservation is met for other state candidates which is totally injustice and the people of Sikkim along with the government criticizes. All such policies, criteria adopted by the VC, SU along with the support of the opposition to the VC is not acceptable to the SDF party and the government.The conference was also attended by SDF Publicity Secretary Mr. Amber Rai.

(SikkimMail)

Sikkim Democratic Front ’s education barb at VC Prof. Lama

 VC Mahendra P. Lama

GANGTOK: The ruling Sikkim Democratic Front today accused the Sikkim University vice-chancellor of being insensitive to the development of education in the state.

SDF spokespersons P.D. Rai and Bhim Dahal told reporters that VC Mahendra P. Lama was more interested in his “political agenda” and “global tours” than spending quality time with the university.

The SDF salvo comes after Lama’s repeated statements on the delay in handing over 250 acres of land at Yangyang in South Sikkim to the SU to develop its campus.

“The university was established through the tireless efforts of our government which also made strong recommendations to get Lama as its first VC. However, his statements on the Yangyang land and his refusal to grant affiliation to the Geyzing degree college in the West district are unacceptable,” said Rai.

After failing to get the approval from the SU, the government got the college affiliated to the private Vinayaka Mission’s Sikkim University. The degree college was inaugurated by chief minister Pawan Chamling on June 28.

Rai said the SU had denied affiliation to the college when 1,300 students passed the Class XII board exams in West Sikkim.

“Where should we then take our students? We appealed for affiliation from the Vinayaka Mission’s Sikkim University. This year, 225 students were admitted to the university and only 21 of them are from Sikkim. It is clear that the VC is against the state’s interests.”

Touching upon delay in the land transfer, Dahal said: “The families that have to vacate the land proposed for the campus are demanding rehabilitation and will not move till then. We are not stalling the transfer, but we have to rehabilitate the evictees first.”

Lama said the SU had only stated facts concerning the delay in land transfer and the affiliation issues.

“We had received four letters from the government, asking us to take possession of the land. Each time we found that the land had not been vacated. We have paid the state government Rs 15 crore. The delay in setting up the campus will result in the non-utilisation of UGC funds. We denied affiliation to the Geyzing college as it did not follow the norms laid out by the UGC. We had informed the government about this,” Lama said.

Asked about his “foreign trips”, the VC said: “Whenever I travel to Delhi or abroad, I promote the university and the state free of cost. These questions are out of the purview of those asking them.”

(thetelegraph)

Sikkim MP PD Rai Questions Sikkim University's VC Prof. Lama’s role in Sikkim’s educational development

Gangtok July 7 : Sikkim's Lok Sabha MP Mr PD Rai strongly condemned the statements coming from the Sikkim University Vice Chancellor Prof. Mahendra P Lama regarding the land acquisition for the establishment of Sikkim University by the State Government. He stated that the process of land acquisition has already started and Prof Lama should understand the gravity of the situation. Land is a sensitive issue and people who have given their land for the University has to be rehabilitated first, before the same is handed over to the University. He further added that the process of rehabilitation has already started and the Government is leaving no stones unturned from its side to complete the project soon. He also added that being the Vice Chancellor he has not come for any discussion or deliberation on the issue with the State Government on the issue for its settlement. It was also informed that the University has not submitted the plan and programme about the design and lay out of the upcoming University to the State Government. Further the MP very strongly voiced that from the manner of his working it is clear that Pro Lama is not working in the true earnest for the students of Sikkim and the development of their future. “We feel let down in many ways” added a peeved MP.

Likewise SDF Spokesperson Mr Bhim Dahal informed that on 30th June 2010 the VC himself went and met with the land donors and told them to vacate the land immediately. This was not taken lightly by the people who on 6th July 2010 came and submitted to the Government that the land will not be handed over until they are rehabilitated suitably. Mr Dahal called such act coming from the VC as against the policy of the State Government and questioned his intentions. He also stated that in 365 days of a year the VC is present in the University only for 90 days, amongst the 225 students of the Sikkim University only 21 are from Sikkim and he has engaged 42 teachers for these 225 students. He also added that the State Government is closely monitoring the activities of the University as well as the VC as it concerns the future of the students of the State and neither the Leader nor the Party will let anything spoil it. Mr Dahal also stated VC had created many obstacles on the process of the affiliation of the Soreng B.Ed college earlier.

He further added that in Geyzing there is an immediate need for a college as there are more than 1300 students from around West Sikkim, however when the Government wrote to SU for affiliation for the Geyzing College VC turned down the proposal. Mr Dahal said that the VC is doing nothing but creating obstacles for the State Government in providing quality education for the people of Sikkim. The State Government had processed for affiliation through the Vinayaka Missions University for Geyzing College and the VC again gave strong remarks in the press against it. This in the words of Mr Dahal is highly uncalled for coming from the Vice Chancellor of Sikkim University that was established for the benefit of the students from Sikkim.
(SikkimMail)

Sikkim Central University announces the under-graduate exam results

Gangtok, June 30: A total of 890 students became the first batch of graduates from Sikkim Central University today.

Sources said 906 students had appeared for the sixth and final semester exams, which were completed on June 10. The results were announced by the vice-chancellor Mahendra P. Lama today.

The university was established by an Act of Parliament in 2007 and under-graduate courses were introduced in nine colleges under it the next year. The colleges in Sikkim had been under North Bengal University till 2008.

“The pass percentage of the first batch stood at 98.34 per cent. We could declare the results within 20 days of completing the exams. The university has been publishing results within three weeks of completing the exams of each semester,” said a university official.

Binita Rai is among the 890 students who became the first graduates from the Sikkim university.

“The semester system is wonderful and made us confident. We had to write exams every six months, submit our fieldwork presentation and go to classes regularly because of compulsory attendance of 75 per cent. There were mid-semester tests also.

The semester system ensured that we studied the whole year compared to other university students, most of whom, usually study only when their annual exams are near,” said Binita, an arts graduate.

Another student said there was also an incentive of five per cent marks for 100 per cent attendance.

“This incentive motivated us to attend classes regularly. We got opportunities not only to learn the history of our region but also other fields. There was a scope for personality development also as we get opportunities to meet and listen to distinguished national and international scholars who are invited by the university,” he said.

The Sikkim university has introduced health insurance for students doing under-graduate and post-graduate courses on its campus.

“Ours is the first university in the country to insure the students against diseases. It is a pilot project and if successful, will be introduced in all colleges affiliated to the university,” said VC Lama.

The insurance certificates will be presented to the students in a month. There are 118 students with the university at present and the number is likely to double when the admission process is over this year.

“The university has tied up with a national insurance company to cover each student under a Rs 1 lakh policy for one year. The students have to pay Rs 300 each as health fee at the time of admission and the university will chip in with Rs 1,000 to pay the premium of Rs. 1300.

(TheTelegraph)

Sikkim CM Chamling inaugurates the college at Kyongsa

Gangtok, June 28: The affiliation of a government college, inaugurated by the chief minister today, with a private university has been termed illegal by the Sikkim Central University which says rules stipulate that all colleges in the state have to be under it.

The college is affiliated to the Vinayaka Mission’s Sikkim University set up under an Act passed by the Assembly in 2008.

“This is the gift to the students of West Sikkim. Now they can pursue graduation without taking the trouble of going to other districts for admission,” chief minister Pawan Chamling told a crowd after the college’s inauguration today.

The college at Kyongsa, close to the West Sikkim district headquarters at Geyzing, is the first institution to be affiliated to the VMSU. The VMSU was established by the Tamil Nadu-based Vinayaka Mission.

Admission to the degree college will start on July 4 and classes on July 22. The college has a capacity to admit 150 students.

Chamling said the college would offer general and honours courses in subjects like English, Nepali, Bhutia, Limboo and Lepcha. Students can also pursue courses in physical education, sociology and geography.

“We had approached the Sikkim University for affiliation but according to its norms, at least one year will be needed to complete all formalities. So, we decided to affiliate the new college to the VMSU,” said a senior official in the state human resource development department.

The decision to switch to the VMSU has not gone down well with the Sikkim Central University vice-chancellor, Mahendra P. Lama.

He said the college’s affiliation with the private university was in violation of the Act passed in Parliament in 2007. The Sikkim university was established by the central law.

“According to the Act, no college can be affiliated to other universities in Sikkim, except the SCU. The law says all colleges in the state comes under the SCU. We have no written information about the Kyongsa college being affiliated to the VMSU. We are for quality education and cannot give affiliation without physical verification of the college. Any college has to apply one year in advance for affiliation and recognition is given only if the norms are fulfilled,” said Lama.

The Sikkim government and the SCU have been locked in a controversy of sorts ever since the university was established in 2007.

The government is yet to hand over 250 acres of land at Yanyang in South Sikkim to the university to set up its campus. The university has already paid Rs 15 crore to the government in 2008 to acquire the land from 250 families.

Lama said the SCU had no idea when it would be allotted the land at Yanyang in South Sikkim.

“We were told last year that the land would be transferred to us after the monsoon. But this year’s rains have arrived,” said the VC.

The university has taken on lease more than 10 buildings in Gangtok to run classes and offices.

(theTelegraph)

Sikkim University represented in China Forum of Global Studies at Shanghai University

GANGTOK, 21 June:The 2011 meeting was hosted by Shanghai University on June 17-18. It followed the "China Forum on Global Studies" which was held at the same venue on June 16-17.
The Sikkim University is in the steering committee of 2011 consortium which seeks to facilitate collaboration in teaching, research and student and faculty exchange. SU was represented at the meet by its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mahendra P Lama.

The Global Studies Consortium meet decided to strengthen the exchange of students on various global studies programmes both on a credit transfer and dual degree basis. Arizona and Pennsylvania University offered this on an immediate basis while Sikkim University and the University in Denmark will take time to undertake such ventures, the release informs.
While University of California along with Sophia University of Japan took the responsibility of looking into the curricula, Moscow University will produce the ‘Encyclopedia of Global Studies’ and Royal Management Institute of Technology, Melbourne, will host the next Global Studies Consortium meeting in 2013, the release informs.

The Consortium meeting was preceded by two days of discussions on “Emerging Societies and Global Reordering” organized by China Forum of Global Studies at Shanghai University, China.
Prof Lama presented a paper on “New Regionalism and Economic Integration in South Asia: Repositioning China and India” which, the release states, inspired a good degree of discussion. The VC also informed the meet of how the School of Global Studies at SU was a first of its kind in India.

This Consortium has representations from the universities in Asia, Europe, Pacific region, Africa and the USA.

M.J.Akbar Speaks at Sikkim University Second Spring Lecture

Gangtok: 30th May:‘Due to the economic discrepancy existing in the nation, the terrorism group has been tremendously flourishing and the people of the nation has to take necessary, positive step in stopping terrorism so that our nation moves towards achieving better future in the long run’ were the opening words, addressed by Editorial Director, India Today Mr. MJ Akbar during the second spring lecture organized by Sikkim University at Chintan Bhawan on 30th May.
Furthermore Mr. Akbar speaking on a specific topic “The Idea of a Modern India” who is also the resource person of the program mainly focused on the economic development of the nation in preventing terrorism and development of nation as a whole.

Adding further Mr. Akbar spoke on the socio, economic and political relation between India and Pakistan before the division took place and emphasized on the secularism that prevails in our nation making India a unique country in the globe and even urged the gathering that citizen’s thoughts needs to be positive and independent for development of the nation as a whole.
India, our nation is progressing on a daily basis but the disparities and discrimination that exists amongst the people in every walks of life is not allowing them to prosper and lead a sustainable livelihood which eventually is increasing riots, terrors and all illegal measures which needs to be addressed and looked upon seriously said Mr. Akbar.
During his presentation Mr. Akbar stressed on the political scenario prevailing in the South East Asia and added that the cast communism persisting amongst Muslim, Hindu community is hampering the people at large, but for the fostering of any nation such castiesm must be erased. Mr. Akbar appreciated on the oral history programme of Sikkim University to preserve the history, tradition and heritage. Adding further Mr. Akbar said that the oral history programme will help the up coming generation to know about their history in the long run.
During the programme, Mr. Pal suggested that the Vice Chancellor, SU to include some programmes on the important historical events is to help the students to know the history of their nation.
Earlier Prof. Lama in his address stated that the main purpose of conducting such lectures is to provide opportunity to the students and people to listen from the experts and eminent figures on the particular issues. Prof. Lama also mentioned that the other purpose is to provide inter-disciplinary events in the university and also to build up confidence amongst the students, deep knowledge and to be informed locally, nationally and globally when they to leave the university. Prof. Lama further added that the theme of the lecture is very essential where the youth and the nation are looking forward on the issue at present.
Furthermore an interactive session even took place where numerous participants placed their queries, which were also addressed by Mr. Akbar and other eminent resource persons present during the program.
The second spring lecture first session was chaired by Ex- Member of parliament and planning commission Mr. Som Pal where as the second session was conducted under the chairpersonship of Professor CD Wadhwa, former president, Center for Policy Research.

(SikkimMail)

Sikkim University’s founding VC Mahendra P. Lama on South Asia panel

Gangtok, April 23: The central government has nominated Sikkim University’s founding vice-chancellor Mahendra P. Lama and the additional secretary of the ministry of external affairs, Asoke Kumar Mukherji, as its representatives in the newly created South Asia Forum, a Sikkim University release has said.

Eight South Asian countries had agreed to form the forum during the 2010 Thimpu Saarc Summit for generation of debate, discussion and the exchange of ideas on South Asia and its future development.

The release said the forum would be modelled on existing initiatives of a similar nature such as the Boao Forum for Asia in China, the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, and the Asia Pacific Roundtable in Australia

SIKKIM UNIVERSITY Land acquisitions are eyewash:SPCC

GANGTOK, November 7: Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee (SPCC) has expressed its apprehensions on the public hearing that took place recently in South District for acquisition of land for Sikkim University at Yangang.
In a press statement, SPCC general secretary KN Lepcha said that the party is concerned whether genuine public hearing can take place as ‘past experiences were nothing but eyewash only as the public were not permitted to participate in such public hearings’.
“The entire procedures were dominated by the ministers and concerned area MLAs and the lands were acquired much against the wishes of the land owners”, said the SPCC.
Further in the event of compulsory acquisition of such a vast extent of land for Sikkim University what safeguard the State government is contemplating to provide to the land owners, the SPCC said.
The party demanded the State Government to ensure that the concerned land owners are adequately compensated, rehabilitated both physically and economically.

SU microbiology students visit ICAR

Gangtok: The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre on Saturday organized an exposure visit for the students of Sikkim University. A team of four faculty members and seventeen students of Microbiology department of the University visited the ICAR.
Wlcoming the guests, Dr. H. Rahman, Joint Director, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, upheld the significant role played by ICAR in the days when the country was facing acute food shortage. With the initiation of the Government of India in modernising agriculture and sincere effort made by scientists for the development of high yielding varieties of crops and animals generated national movement for food production.
He said that present food production has increasedto about 238 million tonnes from merely 50 millions in 1950s. Dr Rahman also mentioned that the productivity of almost all crops has reached a plateau, thus crop diversification and scientific technologies have to be adopted to maintain sustainability in food security. He briefed about the importance of Microbiology as a subject and its prospects in the present day of threats with trans-boundary diseases like swine flu, bird flu, etc. ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre is the oldest Institute working on various aspects of agricultural, horticultural and animal husbandry, he informed. Recently, ICAR has established DNA finger printing, ELISA, other Biotechnology, Microbiology and Plant Pathology laboratory, he added.
Later, the students and faculties visited the different laboratories and the concerned scientists of each division highlighted and showed the research works underway in the institute. The students were interested to know and see the working of the ELISA and PCR laboratories

Sikkim Manipal University celebrates Independence Day

GANGTOK, Aug 17: The Sikkim Manipal University celebrated the 63rd Independence Day.
The National flag was hoisted by Prof. (Dr) R N Salhan, Dean SMIMS, followed by parade by Home guards & Security guards.
The programme began with a speech by the Dean, SMIMS who emphasized on the contributions made by the Indian leaders & freedom fighters in their struggle in the national movement. The Dean also highlighted the etiquette of being a good student and the importance of all categories of job levels.
The staffs & children of SMU family actively participated in the various cultural programme and patriotic songs.
The SMU family including Prof.(Dr) R N Salhan Dean- SMIMS, Prof(Dr) Sanjiba Dutta-DMS, CRH, Prof (Dr) Suvamoy Chakraborty- DMS, CRH & Prof (Dr) Sudip Dutta- DMS with the coordination of Mr. Rajen Gurung- contractor, Patient Canteen, CRH, joined together to distribute fruits and sweets to all the patients of Central Referral Hospital on the occasion

Prof. M.S. Swaminathan, Father of Green Revolution in Gangtok,Sikkim

Food shortage due to climate change foreseen by expert

Gangtok,August14: The days in near future will be very challenging as there would be shortage of food in the world due to climate change, Prof. M.S. Swaminathan, Father of Green Revolution in India and Chancellor of Sikkim University, said in the second foundation day programme of Sikkim University at Chinatan Bhavan on Friday.
Prof. Swaminathan was the chief speaker of a seminar on “Preparing for Climate Change”. He further said risk rise rapidly with rise in temperature. “Just rise in 2 degree Celsius temperature means 4 million people will have to face water shortage,” he said.
Regarding the effect of higher temperature on crops, he said rice and wheat yields are gradually decreasing. In context of India, he said 25 per cent of the country’s population lives near coastal areas and they make their livelihood from the sea and sea water. But with the rise of temperature, the water level of sea would lessen and this cause danger to their livelihood, he said.
As to how to cope with the climate change, he advised promotion of under utilized crops like millets, jawar and many other crops which can easily grow in low rainfall and higher temperature.
The Chancellor expressed hope that Sikkim University would be epicenter of learning for the world and innovate new ideas for the country as well as the world.
State Health Minister Mr. D.N.Thakarpa, who was chief guest of the programme said, “Sikkim University would produce such students who would apply their minds and think of noble ideas. He announced four new departments of the University - Department of Physical Science, Psychology, Integrated B.Sc and M.Sc in horticulture and floriculture and LL.B and LL.M. First Annual Report (2007-2008) of the University was also released by him. “Prosperity of the state lies in quality education”, the Minister said.
Prof. Mahendra P. Lama, Vice Chancellor of the University said, “We are now strengthening the foundation of the University and the initial hurdles have been overcome”. He said with the help of 150 faculty members of different renowned Universities the syllabus of Sikkim University was prepared. The University “is committed to maintain professionalism and accordingly professionally talented faculties are to be recruited”, he added.

2 Books of Sikkim Governor released in Gangtok

Gangtok,August15 : I am feeling proud like a grandfather whose grandchildren have spent two healthy years. Sikkim University is a two year old healthy child and, as I know, this child smiles, rejoices and crawls and finally walks, said Governor Mr. Balmiki Prasad Singh addressing a select gather at Chintan Bhawan on August 14.
His two books, namely, “India’s Culture: the State, the arts and beyond”, and “Bahudha and the post – 9/11 world” were launched on the day. I am grateful to Sikkim University and am really happy that it is doing its role, the Governor said.
Mr. Singh was chief guest and Mr. D. N. Thakarpa, was guest of honor on the occasion. Professor M.S. Swaminathan, Chancellor of Sikkim University, released Governor’s books and Professor Lama gave introduction of the books. Distinguished personalities including Prof. Urvashi Butalia, writer, feminist and historian and Prof. Ralph Buultjens, of New York University, highly spoke of the books. Ministers, Chairpersons, Heads of Departments, Principals of different colleges, lecturers and students were present on the occasion.
All the scholars and guests present were felicitated by Sikkim University Chancellor Prof. Swaminathan and V.C. Prof. Lama presented University logo to the guests.

Prof MS Swaminathan favours Sikkim & "green" University

Gangtok, Aug 14 (PTI) Sikkim University Chancellor and noted agricultural scientist Prof MS Swaminathan today said the university has the potential to develop itself as the first "green university" of the country.

He also appealed to the university to take a lead in the movement for protection and conservation of ecology and bio-diversity.

Addressing a lecture on 'Preparing for Climate Changes' to mark the second foundation day celebrations of the university here, he said the institute has the potential to develop as the first green university due to its location in a virtual greenfield near the state capital.

Describing Sikkim as the genetic paradise by virtue of its rich bio-diversity, Swaminathan said Sikkim University should take upon itself the task to research works on the available resources

Sikkim University seminar on ‘Higher Education

Sikkim University 2nd Foundation Day celebrations continues
GANGTOK, August 10: Vice Chancellor Sikkim University Prof Mahendra P Lama today said that the time had come to discuss the emerging policies on higher education in India.
Addressing a seminar on ‘Higher Education: The way forward’ being organised here on the sidelines of the varsity’s second foundation day, Prof Lama said new higher education policies are being floated and would soon be implemented, for which they would include all critical views, proactive suggestions and contributions in the finalization and implementation of these new policies.
He said that Sikkim University is the first to discuss three important reports in an organised manner viz. National Knowledge Commission “Report to the Nation 2006-2009” – led by Sam Pitroda, Report of the Committee to advise on renovation and Rejuvenation of higher Education”, led by Prof Yashpal and the “Concept note on innovation Universities aiming at World Class Standards” circulated by the MHRD, GOI.
“All three reports have made far reaching recommendations. At times very hard hitting to some of the existing institutions,” the VC said adding “the Govt of India is also planning to initiate 14 Innovative Universities aimed at world class standards in the XI plan period. All these will be on top of the existing 400 plus universities.”
In his welcome speech, Prof Lama also envisaged of making the university a world-class institute.
Talking on the need to capitalise human resources in the State, he said courses on indigenous history, mountain studies, sustainable development, designing, border studies, military sciences, global studies, global warming, disaster management, water, energy and natural resources, culture and ethnicity, music besides the generic courses like economics, biology will be floated in Sikkim University.
The Vice Chancellor said that several innovative courses have been introduced, for instance BSc-MSc integrated course on Floriculture and Horticulture Management for which Curriculum designing was done by the senior officials from the Indian Council of Agriculture Research, Agricultural colleges and Universities, Indian Institute of Management and various Floriculture Horticulture research institutes. “We even invited entrepreneur farmers from Kalimpong and Sikkim to participate in the same. It is an end to end programme aimed at producing a farmer to technocrat and a manager and a marketing professional and an entrepreneur and conservation expert,” he said.
Prof Lama added that out of 130 million children in the age of 18 to 24 years, only 11 million are going to the schools or colleges. Stating that there are 460 Universities and 20,000 colleges including 300 professional colleges, SU Vice Chancellor said there is still a need of 1500 more universities till 2015.
The inaugural session was attended by the State HRDD Minster NK Pradhan as the chief guest along with Sikkim MP, Lok Sabha PD Rai, Vice Chancellor and Sikkim Manipal University Dr Surjit Singh Pabla.
Eminent scholars and academicians from the best universities of India, lecturers, professors and the students from the various colleges of Sikkim also participated in the seminar.
Delivering the keynote address, VC, SMU said the process of revamping our education system is on since the last two years. “With over 20, 000 sub-standard colleges across the country, there is naturally sub standard education,’ Dr. Pabla said adding “there are 3000 professional colleges and out of 460 universities, only 10 are of world standard. We still require 1500 universities by 2015”.
He further stressed on the challenges of quality education including the need of attitude change, autonomy of universities, regulatory mechanisms, quality of teachers, development of infrastructure, uniform curriculum, mobility of students, entry of foreign universities, evaluation system and role of private participants among others.
In his address, the Lok Sabha MP informed that the Parliament had recently passed the Right to Education Bill regarding free and compulsory education for the children aged between 6-14years and that it was a harbinger of good news for the massive educational transformation in India. He said that the onus lies on the State Government to ensure free and compulsory education. “This has been long overdue. Education allows for social mobility,” he said.
Resenting on the fact that the education system of Sikkim was never questioned and discussed, Mr Rai applauded the effort of Sikkim University in bringing a paradigm shift in this regard. “Sikkim University should now play an important role in catalysing mountain studies as part of their curriculum in order to cater to the needs of the people of the region,” he added.
He further said that Sikkim University has to focus on mountain paradigm and that more research and thought is needed in this direction.
HRDD minister on his part reminded that the State Government is determined as well as keen to make Sikkim an education hub. “Quality education is aspired in the State and for this quality education is needed. We have also started the process of capacity building amongst the teachers,” the minister said.
Later a discussion was held on the implications of National Knowledge Commission and Yashpal Committee Report on the NE region.

‘Sawaney Jhari’ an Inter College Cultural show @ TNA School,Gangtok

Gangtok ,August9 :Sikkim University has just completed two years and as part of its Foundation Day celebrations, the University is organizing a month long socio-cultural and academic programme starting from the July 27.
Participants from various schools and colleges from both within and outside Sikkim have been invited to take part in this month long programme.
The Foundation Day celebrations started with an Inter College debate. Students of the affiliated colleges of Sikkim University took part in this competition. The topic for the debate was “Economic Development is more important than protection of the Environment’ and was held at Sikkim Government College, Tadong, at 9.30 am. Padmashree GS Lama was invited as the Chief Guest and Sonam Wangdi, former Chief Secretary chaired the proceedings.
This was followed by a SPIC MACAY programme on August 2, where Ms Malabika Sen, a well known Kathak exponent performed. CB Karki, Minister, Department for Rural Management and Developments and Cooperation Departments was the Chief Guest of day.
‘Sawaney Jhari’ an Inter College Cultural show was presented before a selected audience on the August 8 at TNA School auditorium . Neeru Sewa, Minister, Industry, Commerce and Information and Public Relations, was the Chief Guest and students from Sikkim Government College,Rhenock College etc . presented traditional cultural dance and music programme which was followed by programme of Indian Idol Prashant Tamang who enthralled the crowd with popular nepali and hindi songs.
On August 10, there will be a day long Seminar on the theme- Higher Education : Problems & Prospects. NK Pradhan, Minister Human Resource Development Department, will be the Chief Guest.

Sikkim University’s SPICMACAY event held

GANGTOK, Aug 2: Eminant Kathak dancer, Dr Malabika Mitra today performed at the Sikkim Government College auditorium in the Society for Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth (SPICMACAY) event organized by the Sikkim University as part of its second anniversary celebrations.
Accompanying Dr. Mitra were Pratap Banerjee and Pandit Dinanath Mishra.
CB Karki, the Minister for RMDD was the chief guest on the occasion. While placing his welcome speech, Prof Dr Mahendra P Lama, the vice-chancellor of Sikkim University said it was indeed a great opportunity for Sikkim, especially the youth, to witness a SPICMACAY concert. “SPICMACAY seeks to conserve and promote an awareness of the rich and heterogeneous cultural tapestry of India amongst the youth of this country through focus on the classical arts, with their attendant legends, rituals, mythology and philosophy and to facilitate an awareness of their deeper and subtler values. Sikkim’s rich cultural heritage can also be promoted through SPICMACAY,” he said

Press Club of Sikkim felicitates Prof. Mahendra P. Lama

Gangtok: Dr. Mahendra P. Lama, the newly appointed vice chancellor of Sikkim University was felicitated by Press Club of Sikkim(PCS) on July 27, 2007.Prof. Mahendra P. Lama of the School of International Studies, JNU, at the Centre for South, Central, South East Asian & South West Pacific Studies, has assumed the office of the first Vice Chancellor of Sikkim University w.e.f. the 2nd July, 2007.

While addressing the media person, Dr. Lama expected that this university will be an inclusive university to attain higher studies of excellence in various new faculties, which will cover not only bookish knowledge but of practical knowledge as well. He said that Sikkim must put every effort in education at least for 20 years very seriously so that human development and resource can be increased in order to build a strong society and nation. He also suggested to change the mental attitude of the people and work hard for meeting the cherished goal in life and education is a part and parcel of human being to be developed fully. He disclosed that the appropriate land is being identified to construct the infrastructure of university in 250 acres land required for the purpose and he has assumed with this new assignment with determination and mission in the life. He urged the media persons to come forward and co-operate in this mission.
Shri C.D. Rai, the President, Press Club of Sikkim expressed that he is fortunate enough to witness a mega event in his life because when he was a child there was no school in his village Namchi. Now there are many school and college and university is too being started. Shri Subash Deepak, Advisor and Sr. Journalist highlighted the profile of Dr. Lama and also read out the citation. Dr. Lama was felicitated by offering scarf and citation. Earlier, Shri Bhim Rawat, General Secretary of PCS delivered welcome speech, while Shri Paras Mani Dahal, Treasurer gave vote of thanks. The function was conducted by Shri Bijay Bantawa, Advisor of PCS