Sonakshi Sarkar

Sikkim’s education department kicked off the new academic session by distributing free textbooks and uniforms to government school students on February 3. The initiative, aimed at supporting inclusive education and easing financial burdens on families, saw 40,968 students from 767 schools benefit. Officials confirmed that the distribution covered all government schools, including monastic schools and Sanskrit pathshalas, highlighting the state’s commitment to provide equitable educational opportunities to all students."The distribution ensures that every student starts the academic year with the essential learning materials," said an education department official. This marks the second consecutive year of such an initiative in the…

In Sikkim, Puran Tamang has been appointed as the new State President of the All India OBC SC ST Editors Association. The association, based in Lucknow and registered under number 121/2023, works to unite editors from marginalized communities across India. Its national leadership team comprises President Karan Kumar, Secretary Satish Arya, Treasurer Jitendra Chaudhary, and Vice President Ashish Kumar Gautam. In addition to Tamang’s appointment, the association has also appointed state presidents across various regions, bolstering its presence across the country. With representation in 21 states, two union territories, and five countries, the association is committed to advocating for editors…

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…