Sonakshi Sarkar

Sikkim has marked a proud moment in its educational journey as Karma Tempo Ethenpa, Principal of PM Shri Government Senior Secondary School, Mangan, received the prestigious National Teachers’ Award 2025 from President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi. Ethenpa, among 45 educators recognised nationwide, was honoured for his exceptional service in guiding students beyond academics—encouraging sports, promoting healthy lifestyles, and steering the young away from tobacco use and technology addiction. The award highlights the growing contribution of teachers from smaller states like Sikkim, showcasing how dedicated educators can influence entire communities. Speaking after the ceremony, Ethenpa expressed gratitude to his colleagues…

In a momentous development for Sikkim and the Northeast, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Thursday inaugurated the state’s first National Law University (SNLU), describing it as a milestone in the journey of legal education and justice delivery. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Hon’ble Chief Justice and Chancellor of SNLU, Justice Biswanath Somadder, whose pivotal role in making the university a reality was acknowledged by the Chief Minister. Addressing a packed gathering of judges, legal experts, students, and dignitaries, CM Tamang said the creation of the Sikkim National Law University is not just about setting up another academic institution…

The Central government has directed all telecom operators in Sikkim to make the Nepali language mandatory across customer services and digital platforms. The order, issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the Ministry of Communications, was circulated on September 2 and requires compliance within 30 days. According to the notification, signed by Assistant Wireless Advisor (Licensing Policy) Rakesh Yadav, telecom service providers, internet companies, and virtual network operators must integrate Nepali into customer care operations, SMS alerts, and interactive voice response systems (IVRS). The initiative aims to ensure that subscribers across Sikkim can access telecom services in their mother…

The Sikkim Bhutia Lepcha Apex Committee (SIBLAC) has renewed its criticism of the state government over a long-standing error in an official publication that incorrectly mentions the date of the Pang Lhabsol festival. The issue, first raised by the committee over two decades ago, continues to stir concern among Sikkimese communities. The controversy dates back to 2004 when the Sikkim government published the Sikkim Studies Series (Culture, Part-1, Volume-III). In the book’s section on culture, Pang Lhabsol is listed as being observed every year on September 2. SIBLAC maintains that this information is misleading, as the festival follows the Sikkimese…

The Sikkim Transport Department has announced a 15-day extension for its one-time traffic fine settlement scheme under the AI-driven Traffic Management System. Originally scheduled to conclude on August 31, the initiative will now remain open until September 15, 2025, giving vehicle owners extra time to clear pending fines. The scheme allows violators to settle dues by paying 50% of the total penalty or ₹20,000, whichever is lower. Launched in July, the program aims to reduce financial burden on vehicle owners while encouraging compliance with traffic regulations. However, initial collections during August recovered only about 25% of outstanding fines, officials said.…