Sikkim - The Purbottar

11 Feb

Sikkim CM takes bold step toward securing ST status for 12 communities

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

The Sikkim State High-Level Committee (SSHLC) held a crucial meeting at Sikkim House, New Delhi, today, focusing on securing Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for 12 left-out communities. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang reiterated his government’s strong commitment to the cause, emphasizing that ST recognition is both a constitutional right and essential for preserving cultural heritage. Addressing representatives of the 12 communities, CM Tamang acknowledged their long-standing struggle for recognition and stressed the socio-economic benefits of ST status. He urged all stakeholders to remain proactive in addressing queries from the Government of India and ensuring all procedural requirements are met."The aspirations…

10 Feb

Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang takes holy dip at Maha Kumbh 2025

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, along with a 72-member delegation from the state, participated in the Maha Kumbh 2025 by taking a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. Expressing spiritual fulfillment, Tamang described the experience as a "truly blessed moment." “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, as Maha Kumbh is held once every 144 years. I feel extremely fortunate to be here,” Tamang said. He acknowledged Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for extending the invitation, allowing him and his delegation to take part in the grand event. As of February 7, over 40 crore devotees have taken…

07 Feb

Gangtok to have Ropeway system to ease traffic

editorSikkim

In a move to address urban traffic challenges and to boost tourism, the Sikkim government has unveiled a plan to introduce a modern aerial ropeway system in Gangtok, an official statement said on Thursday. The initiative, discussed during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister P S Tamang during the day, aims to transform the city's transport infrastructure and provide a sustainable alternative to traditional road-based commuting. The meeting, attended by officials from the Urban Development Department (UDD), key stakeholders and potential investors, focused on the implementation of the ropeway project under the Sikkim Ropeway Act, 2023.

05 Feb

The Northeast sends well wishes to Sikkim’s CM on his 57th birthday

Banasree SarkarSikkim

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang's birthday Today, and politicians, MLAs, and ministers from all over the nation sent him well wishes. Tamang, who was born on February 5, 1968, in Singling Busty, West Sikkim, to Kalu Singh Tamang and Dhan Maya Tamang, has played a pivotal role in the growth and governance of Sikkim. On his special day, all of Sikkim's ministries and other political figures wished the chief minister a happy birthday. Best congratulations to the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri @PSTamangGolay ji on his birthday were sent by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. He is…

05 Feb

Sikkim-Darjeeling merger a “baseless” issue, says CM Prem Singh Tamang

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has dismissed speculations about a possible Sikkim-Darjeeling merger, calling it a baseless claim spread by the opposition to mislead the public. Speaking at the 13th Foundation Day of the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) in Pacheykhani, Tamang urged people not to believe such rumors."The person raising this issue—go and ask him. Even he will say that the Sikkim-Darjeeling merger can never happen. The opposition is making such claims only because they lack real political issues," Tamang said. He emphasized that Article 371(F) of the Indian Constitution safeguards Sikkim’s distinct identity and history, making a merger…

04 Feb

By providing free textbooks & uniforms Govt. expecting new educational exposure

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

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…

01 Feb

Sikkim’s Puran Tamang takes lead role in OBC SC ST Editors Association

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

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…

31 Jan

Sikkim to improve development efficiency with new planning boards

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

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…

30 Jan

Sikkim’s Cancer cases hit record high in 2024

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

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…

29 Jan

Sikkim CM highlights local employment protection at SKM meeting

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

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…