Sikkim - The Purbottar

20 Nov

Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi meets with Chief Minister Tamang, evaluates border security in Sikkim, and congratulates seasoned achievements

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi carried out a detailed review of security preparedness in Sikkim during his visit to the state’s forward areas this week. The Army Chief also met Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and discussed key national security priorities and ongoing civil–military cooperation efforts. General Dwivedi was accompanied by senior military commanders, including the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command, the GOC Trishakti Corps and the GOC Black Cat Division. The meeting with the Chief Minister took place at the CM’s official residence, where both sides exchanged views on strengthening coordination between the civil…

19 Nov

BJP Sikkim reaffirms its call for an Article 371(F) revision of the electoral roll

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

The Sikkim unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has renewed its demand that the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the Electoral Roll be carried out strictly under the constitutional framework of Article 371(F), which grants special protections to the Himalayan state. The party emphasised that the revision must fully comply with the Sikkim Citizenship Order Act, 1975, and the Representation of the Sikkim Subject Act, 1974; two cornerstones of Sikkim’s legal and historical identity. A senior delegation of the BJP met the District Election Officer (DEO) in Gangtok on Tuesday to review the progress of the SIR and…

19 Nov

COAS Upendra Dwivedi reviews security in Sikkim, meets CM Tamang and honours veteran achievers

Mohini BarmanSikkim

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi undertook a comprehensive review of security preparedness in Sikkim during his visit to the state’s forward areas, where he also called on Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang. The Army Chief, accompanied by senior military commanders including the GOC-in-C Eastern Command, GOC Trishakti Corps and GOC Black Cat Division, discussed national security priorities and ongoing civil–military initiatives with the Chief Minister.The meeting, held at the Chief Minister’s official residence, focused on enhancing military-civil cooperation, evaluating welfare measures for veterans from Sikkim, and reviewing progress under the state’s Ranbhoomi Darshan programme. CM Tamang appreciated…

18 Nov

Sikkim BJP Adviser flags rising security risks along state border

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

BJP leader and state party adviser Tseten Tashi Bhutia has raised concerns over increasing security risks along Sikkim’s border areas, citing activities linked to neighbouring countries that require closer scrutiny. Bhutia said that information widely circulated on social media and news platforms provides a clearer view of developments near India’s frontiers, highlighting the need for heightened vigilance in Sikkim’s sensitive border zones. He warned that anti-India activities cannot be ignored and that proactive measures are critical to ensuring the state’s security. Highlighting the significance of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, Bhutia called it “very necessary” and “urgently needed,”…

17 Nov

Strong calls to preserve Sikkimese identity and togetherness are echoed at the Kongchen Dorjee Award Ceremony

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

The inaugural Kongchen Dorjee Award turned into a powerful platform for reflection and community solidarity as SIBLAC Convenor and BJP Advisor Tseten Tashi Bhutia received the honour from the Sikkim Indigenous Lepcha Tribal Association (SILTA). While the event celebrated his long-standing service, Bhutia used the moment to issue a heartfelt call for unity, fairness and stronger constitutional safeguards for Sikkim’s indigenous communities. Bhutia, who has worked closely with the Sikkim Indigenous Bhutia-Lepcha Advisory Council, told the gathering that he accepted the recognition “with a heartfelt feeling” and prayers for the well-being of the people. He said the award belonged not…

15 Nov

Sikkim’s Lamin Theengh dominates 35th National Strength Lifting Championship, wins four golds

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

The 35th National Strength Lifting and Incline Bench Press Championship concluded in spectacular fashion at Palzor Stadium, Gangtok, on November 13, 2025, with over 750 elite athletes from 22 states participating in the four-day event. The championship, held from November 10 to 13, showcased India’s top strength athletes and highlighted Sikkim’s growing stature as a host for major sporting events. Organized under the leadership of the Sikkim Strength Lifting Association, led by Mr. Pema Dorjee Bhutia, Mr. Allen Targain, and Ms. Chandrakala Pradhan, the event was widely praised for its seamless execution and competitive spirit. Among the standout performers, Ms.…

14 Nov

In 2025, Deepika Rai wins gold at the 35th National Strength Lifting Championship

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

50-year-old Deepika Rai from Chemchey, Damthang (Namchi) has secured a gold medal at the 35th National Strength Lifting & Incline Bench Press (IBP) Championship 2025. The prestigious national event was held at Paljor Stadium, Gangtok, and organised by the Sikkim Strength Lifting Association under the aegis of the Indian Strength Lifting Federation. Rai’s achievement marks a significant milestone, highlighting not only her personal dedication but also the growing prominence of Sikkimese athletes in national strength sports. Competing against some of the country’s finest lifters, she showcased exceptional skill and discipline, earning the top podium position in her category. The championship,…

13 Nov

Sikkim will host the 13th International Tourism Mart, highlighting the region’s sustainable growth

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

Sikkim is set to host the 13th International Tourism Mart (ITM) for the North Eastern Region from November 13 to 16, highlighting sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. The event, organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, will bring together stakeholders from across India and abroad to promote responsible and inclusive tourism development in the North East. The event will be inaugurated by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, alongside key dignitaries including Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu. Tourism Ministers from all North Eastern States, senior government officials,…

12 Nov

Sikkim’s Jhoom International Talent show features divyang talent and international musicians

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

Sikkim hosted a spectacular celebration of inclusivity and artistic excellence as divyang (differently-abled) artists from across the globe converged for the Jhoom International Talent Show at Manan Kendra, Gangtok. The event provided a vibrant platform for showcasing exceptional talent while promoting cultural exchange and social inclusivity. In a gesture of hospitality, the Vice Chancellor of ICFAI University Sikkim hosted a high tea reception for visiting artists and organisers, fostering fellowship and dialogue among the distinguished guests. The programme was jointly organised by the SKM Social Service Wing and Shantidham Foundation, and witnessed an impressive gathering of dignitaries and officials. The…

11 Nov

Lhabab Duchen celebrated with devotion at Alley Dechen Choling Gumpa in Namchi

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

The Alley Dechen Choling Gumpa in Namchi witnessed a spiritually vibrant celebration of Lhabab Duchen, drawing monks, devotees, and well-wishers to participate in a two-day ceremony dedicated to peace, prosperity, and the well-being of all sentient beings. The sacred event was presided over by His Eminence Kyabje Dhakpo Rinpoche, featuring traditional rituals such as Rewa Sangh, Solkha, and Tse-wang offerings, performed with deep reverence and devotion. The ceremonies commemorated the Buddha’s descent from the heavenly realms, reinforcing the spiritual significance of Lhabab Duchen in the Buddhist calendar. In addition to the religious observances, the celebration paid heartfelt tribute to the…