Sikkim - The Purbottar

14 May

Sikkim’s Butterthon blends biodiversity and statehood celebration

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

In a unique and colorful tribute to the 50th anniversary of Sikkim’s statehood, the Butterfly Society of Sikkim–TPCF has launched the state’s first-ever "Butterthon." The event, which began on May 1 and runs until May 16, is a celebration of Sikkim’s rich biodiversity, with participants engaging in a peaceful race to spot butterflies across the state. The Butterthon is not about speed but about appreciating nature as participants explore the diverse butterfly habitats spread across Sikkim. From lush forests to high-altitude meadows, this event invites enthusiasts to document and observe various butterfly species. The event has attracted participants from across…

13 May

Art of Living’s Gangtok event promotes mental well-being in children

Banasree SarkarSikkim

A four-day children’s programme called the “Intuition Process” was successfully conducted at the Art of Living Centre in Tadong, Gangtok, from May 9 to 12. Organised by the Art of Living Foundation, the event aimed to boost confidence, focus, and clarity in young minds. Led by senior trainer Amit Dhanuka, with support from local teachers Sangay Bhutia and Bhushan Rai, the sessions taught children how to develop their natural intuition through safe, simple techniques rooted in ancient Vedic practices. On the final day, parents joined the programme and were visibly moved by their children's progress. Many said they noticed positive…

12 May

50 years of unity and growth, Sikkim to host landmark celebration

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

The Sikkim government, in collaboration with the Press Club of Sikkim, will host the Sikkim@50: Golden Jubilee Conclave 1975–2025 at Adampool, Gangtok to commemorate 50 years of Sikkim's statehood. The conclave, jointly organised by the Information and Public Relations (IPR) Department and the Press Club, aims to highlight Sikkim’s journey since joining the Indian Union in 1975, state officials confirmed. Press Club of Sikkim president Bhim Rawat said the event will bring together distinguished personalities to reflect on the state’s evolution and deliberate on its future, including investment opportunities in key sectors. “This conclave will be a platform to showcase…

10 May

₹2.25 crore approved for rail survey to connect West Sikkim

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

In a major boost to Sikkim’s connectivity, the Ministry of Railways has sanctioned the Final Location Survey (FLS) for a proposed 75-km railway line between Melli and Dentam via Jorethang and Legship. The Centre has allocated ₹2.25 crore for the project, with the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) tasked with conducting the survey. The move follows a formal proposal submitted by Sikkim MP Indra Hang Subba in December 2024. Thanking Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for his support, Subba said the project would be “transformative for West Sikkim,” connecting remote regions and accelerating development. The planned rail line is seen as a…

09 May

Union government urged to reform 1949 Bodhgaya Temple Act

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

Sikkim Minister for Ecclesiastical Affairs, Sonam Lama, has called on the Union Government to intervene in the ongoing dispute surrounding the Bodhgaya Temple Act (BTA) of 1949. Lama urged the Centre to address the concerns of the global Buddhist community, which has been demanding amendments to the Act governing the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, Bihar. In a letter dated April 1 and addressed to Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Lama expressed "deep concern" over the lack of representation for Buddhists in the temple’s administration. “The Buddhist community worldwide has long awaited justice regarding the governance and rightful representation at Bodhgaya,” he…

08 May

Sikkim shows rare political unity in support of armed forces

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

In a rare display of political unity, major political parties in Sikkim have strongly endorsed the Indian military’s Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang’s Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) praised the operation, calling it a decisive move. “The targeted action against terror camps sends a clear message to the world that India will defend itself,” said SKM spokesperson Bikash Basnet.The Citizen Action Party (CAP) echoed the sentiment, terming the operation “historic” and a testament to India’s zero-tolerance stance on terrorism. “India will never compromise when it comes to the safety…

07 May

BJP seeks clarity from DCs on presence of Pakistani nationals in Sikkim

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

The Sikkim unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has raised concerns over the state government's silence on identifying and deporting Pakistani nationals, following a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The issue comes amid nationwide action post the recent Pahalgam incident. Speaking to the media, BJP Sikkim spokesperson Passang Sherpa questioned the absence of visible measures by district administrations. “The MHA has directed all states to locate and deport any Pakistani nationals residing illegally. But Sikkim has shown no clear response,” he said. Sherpa added that BJP Sikkim has formally approached the District Collectors of all six…

06 May

Sikkim’s CAP demands action after assault on Ashish Rai

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

The Citizen Action Party (CAP) has strongly condemned the brutal attack on Ashish Rai, President of the All Sikkim Drivers Welfare Council, calling it a direct assault on democracy and the voice of the working class. Rai, a well-known advocate for drivers' rights, was attacked by masked assailants late Sunday night at his rented home in Rongey. He sustained critical injuries to his head and knees and is currently undergoing treatment at STNM Hospital in an unconscious state. The CAP, in its official statement, alleged that Rai’s activism — particularly his outspoken stance on poor road conditions and drivers’ welfare…

05 May

Sikkim sets example in social justice, says Union Minister

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale, commended Sikkim's social justice initiatives during his visit to the state as part of a review meeting on various schemes under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Athawale praised Sikkim’s low Below Poverty Line (BPL) population, emphasizing the significant progress under the leadership of Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay and the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM), which has allied with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). He acknowledged the state’s efforts to combat poverty and enhance the living conditions of its citizens. The Minister also highlighted the state's remarkable record…

02 May

Sikkim to showcase its culture in govt offices every thursday

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

In an effort to reinforce Sikkim’s rich cultural identity within the administrative framework, the Department of Personnel (DOP), Government of Sikkim, has issued Notification No. 3412/GEN/DOP directing all its officials to wear traditional dress every Thursday. This initiative is in alignment with the vision of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), who has consistently emphasized the importance of preserving the state’s cultural roots. The move is exclusive to DOP employees and aims to encourage pride in local traditions by making traditional attire a part of the department’s weekly routine. More than just a dress protocol, this step serves…