Sonakshi Sarkar

The International Literary Festival 2024 commenced at the Manan Kendra in Gangtok on October 26, drawing literary figures and enthusiasts from across India and Nepal. Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang lauded the event on October 27, emphasizing the transformative power of literature in promoting cultural and intellectual exchange. “I am overwhelmed to be in the presence of such renowned literary figures. Sikkim is honored to host this event, which strengthens the cultural fabric of our society,” said Tamang, highlighting the festival’s role in fostering literary dialogue across borders. He remarked, “Literature is a beautiful reflection of human sentiment,” acknowledging…

On October 25, a handwashing station was inaugurated at the Government Senior Secondary School in Bariakhop, Sikkim, to enhance hygiene and health among students. The event brought together students, teachers, and members of the school management committee, all united in the effort to promote better health practices. This initiative aims to provide students with the necessary facilities to wash their hands effectively, especially before meals and after using toilet facilities, thereby reducing the risk of infections and promoting overall well-being. The inauguration was supported by the Sulabh Sanitation Club, an affiliate of Sulabh International, New Delhi. Team members Rupak Roy…

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay chaired a crucial meeting focused on two key initiatives—revitalizing large cardamom farming and addressing the growing threat of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) in Sikkim. The meeting, which included Science and Technology Minister Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, underscored the state’s proactive approach to both agricultural development and climate resilience. The revival of large cardamom cultivation, a major agricultural product for Sikkim, was highlighted as essential for boosting rural economies. CM Tamang emphasized that strengthening this sector would provide long-term livelihood security for farmers across the state, with continuous support from relevant departments. Addressing GLOF mitigation, the…

The Regional Ayurveda Research Institute (RARI), Gangtok, has made remarkable strides under the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), Ministry of Ayush, during the first 100 days of the current government. These achievements reflect RARI's commitment to enhancing healthcare through Ayurveda and its contributions to the broader Ayush ecosystem. Geriatric Care Program: RARI surpassed its goal by treating 539 elderly individuals through its specialized OPD, providing consultations, therapies, and holistic lifestyle advice, significantly improving seniors' quality of life. Outreach in Underserved Communities: Under the SCSP and THCRP programs, RARI conducted 116 outreach tours, treating 1,730 patients and surveying…

The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) has announced Aditya Golay, son of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, and senior party leader Satish Chandra Rai as candidates for the upcoming bypolls in Soreng Chakung and Namchi Singhithang constituencies. The bypolls are set for November 13. Aditya Golay, a former MLA from Soreng Chakung (2019-2024), was previously denied a ticket in the general elections. CM Tamang vacated the seat after choosing to represent Rhenock. Satish Chandra Rai will contest from Namchi Singhithang, a seat vacated by CM Tamang’s wife, Krishna Kumari Rai. SKM spokesperson Jacob Khaling praised Krishna Kumari Rai's "selfless act" in…