Sonakshi Sarkar

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang announced that the state government will set up a State Planning and Development Board to enhance coordination and efficiency in developmental projects. The decision was made during a legislators meeting held at Samman Bhawan on Tuesday, attended by senior officials. In addition to the state-level board, constituency-level planning boards will also be established. These boards will play a crucial role in addressing constituency-specific concerns, ensuring localised governance that aligns with state objectives. A key part of the plan includes the creation of nine-member committees at the constituency level, which will oversee development and planning…

Cancer cases in Sikkim have seen a dramatic rise, with the number reaching 551 in 2024, nearly doubling from 236 in 2015. The sharp increase in cases has sparked concern among health experts, particularly with a notable spike in the past two years. According to Dr. Ashish Rai, Head of the Oncology Department at STNM Hospital, this surge in cancer cases reflects both growing awareness and the improved availability of medical facilities in the state. The cancer prevalence rate in Sikkim stands at 91.8 per 100,000 people, slightly lower than the national average of 100.4 per 100,000. However, the increasing…

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has announced the implementation of a temporary work permit system at the Gram Panchayat Unit (GPU) level to regulate the influx of external workers into Sikkim. The decision, revealed during the 4th SKM legislators' meeting at Samman Bhawan, aims to safeguard local employment opportunities and address concerns over unauthorized workforce entry. The system will enable stricter monitoring of outsider workforce deployment, ensuring fair employment practices while prioritizing the interests of local communities. The meeting, which included SKM legislators, advisors, and officials, also highlighted preparations for the party's 13th Foundation Day celebrations. Members were encouraged to…

Sikkim marked the pre-celebration of the Sonam Lhochhar festival on January 27 at Joutar Ground, Soreng, with vibrant cultural performances and a message of unity. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang described the event as a "festival of pride" and emphasized its significance in preserving the traditions of the Tamang community. Highlighting the decision to pre-celebrate, CM Tamang stated, “January 30 is a notified holiday for Sonam Lhochhar, allowing the Tamang people to celebrate at home with prayers and blessings. The state-level event today enables wider participation while respecting traditional observances.” The celebration, attended by diverse communities, reflected the inclusive approach…

Citizen Action Party (CAP) chief Ganesh Rai launched a scathing attack on the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government during the party’s third foundation day celebration in Rangpo. Rai accused the SKM of rampant corruption, mismanagement of public funds, and failure to fulfill electoral promises, asserting CAP’s commitment to clean and accountable governance. Marking 50 years of Sikkim’s integration with India, Rai expressed disappointment over the state’s political direction, claiming that personal interests have consistently overshadowed public welfare. “Ministers and politicians have been bought and sold, but CAP remains steadfast in its principles of transparency and accountability,” Rai stated. He…