Sonakshi Sarkar

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for the release of ₹671.35 crore as part of the Union government’s tax devolution for January 2025. “This timely support will accelerate Sikkim’s economic development, enhance social welfare initiatives, and advance critical infrastructure projects,” Tamang said, acknowledging the central government’s commitment to aiding smaller states. The allocation is part of the Union government’s monthly tax devolution, which distributes the net proceeds of union taxes to states. For January, the total devolution across India amounts to a substantial financial boost, with Uttar…

The Sikkim Government has issued a health advisory on Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) amid reports of a surge in severe respiratory illness cases in China linked to the virus. A high-level meeting, chaired by the Chief Secretary on January 7, reviewed the state's preparedness and potential risks. HMPV, first identified in the Netherlands in 2001, typically causes mild respiratory issues but poses severe risks to vulnerable individuals, including those with weakened immune systems. The virus spreads through close contact, coughing, sneezing, or contaminated surfaces, with symptoms ranging from cough and fever to shortness of breath. Health authorities have urged citizens to…

The Gorkha Rashtriya Congress (GRC), led by Bharat Dong, has issued a one-month ultimatum to both the Sikkim and Indian governments, demanding action on the long-standing call for Darjeeling’s merger with Sikkim or statehood for the region. The deadline, set for February 7, 2025, intensifies the debate surrounding Darjeeling's political future. Dong, in his statement, accused the Sikkim government of stalling the merger, a demand that has been central to the GRC’s platform since its formation in 2004. He emphasized Darjeeling's historical ties to Sikkim, claiming, “Darjeeling was never part of West Bengal.” Dong argued that Darjeeling was leased to…

Naresh Chettri, a prominent youth leader from Sikkim and National Youth Parliament awardee, has been chosen to anchor the upcoming Viksit Bharat - Young Leaders' Dialogue in New Delhi. The three-day event, starting January 10, will take place at Bharat Mandapam, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the chief guest. Chettri, who serves as the Joint Secretary of the SKM Youth Wing, gained national recognition for his address on India's G20 Presidency last year. His speech on "One Earth, One Family, One Future" highlighted his knowledge of international affairs and his eloquence as a public speaker. This selection adds to…

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang convened a coordination meeting at Samman Bhawan to assess preparations for the much-anticipated Jorethang Maghey Sankranti Mela. The meeting was attended by MLA Madan Cintury, members of the Mela Committeeand key officials. The discussion centered on reviewing progress and identifying critical areas to ensure the smooth execution of the event. Highlighting the significance of the festival, CM Tamang stated, “This event is not just a festival but a cherished expression of our cultural heritage, fostering a sense of unity and pride among the people of our state.” Key logistical and organizational aspects were deliberated upon…