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Assam-Mizoram Row: A brief analysis from a Regional, Geo-Political & Security Perspective

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Assam Mizoram Clash
Assam Mizoram Clash
“You can change friends, not neigbours.”- Former PM Late AB Vajpayee.

Assam as the elder sister:

The above-mentioned quote was said by former PM Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji. During the 2003 India-Pakistan bilateral summit held in Agra. This particular quote can be apt with the ongoing border dispute between the NE states of Assam & Mizoram. Assam is the gateway to the entire NE region land route-railway & road transport. It is laden with a lot of responsibilities as the elder sister among the seven sister states. The recent dispute between the Assam and Mizoram, if escalates again, can have a greater geopolitical and security implications.

Ethnic overlap:

The flow of Burmese refugees in Mizoram following the recent military coup in Myanmar highlights the question about the global migrant crisis. The fate of the uprooted refugees from a conflict zone in a foreign land. Mizoram however shares an approximately 500 km long porous border with the Chin state of Myanmar. It is the home of the majority Kuki-Chin speaking communities of Myanmar.

Thus, also acts as the sign for the sense of linguistic and ethnic belongingness, as the Mizo language is a part of the Kuki-Chin language family. These refugees from Myanmar welcomed by the Mizo hospitality, considering the ethnic overlapping. Further exemplified by news report (June this year) said the allocation of funds by Mizoram for the refugee on humanitarian grounds. However, rehabilitating several refugees automatically doubles the state’s resources which also includes land. Also, speculated that the recent border dispute between the two states over land might be having an angle, determined from this perspective from Mizoram’s side.

Assam border concerns:

Assam already has boundary dispute with the neighbouring states of Meghalaya, Nagaland and even Arunachal Pradesh. It is now facing problems with Mizoram. This led to a violent incident, witnessed the death of Assam Police jawans along with many jawans being injured.

Assam and Mizoram:

Let‘s examine the geopolitical and security dimensions of the crisis between the two states. The People’s Republic of China (China/PRC), an emerging hegemon of the 21st century has got a significant number of stakes in India’s NE region. From claiming Arunachal Pradesh as their territory of South Tibet to supporting the last remnants of the NE insurgents against the Indian state. Thereby acting as an invisible foreign hand in destabilizing the region. China’s role and influence can’t be ignored, as its footprints are already expanding the South East Asian region. It is India’s destination in the “Act East initiative” and its route is obviously via the NE region of India. Enhancing the Act East initiative means synchronising the overall development of the NE region from infrastructure to connectivity, seen a pace since 2014. This includes the Kaladan Multi-modal project too where Mizoram is a major stakeholder.

Consequences:

A deteriorated state of the relationship will lead to Assam not being able to extract benefits from Mizoram and vice versa. Disturbance along the Assam-Mizoram border can further ignite the other states to demand their territorial claims over the boundary issue. In 2017 Hindustan Times reported the statement by the Chinese state media saying ‘rising Hindu Nationalism’ hijacked India’s China Policy.

Conclusion:

Considering the ideological leanings of the current ruling party in Assam, it will be not wrong if we consider the China factor here. It may be having a diabolical agenda of creating instability in India’s NE region. With motive to disrupt the ongoing developmental works in the region, by covertly provoking certain mischievous elements. If the crisis escalates again in future, it will be detrimental to both sides, considering the dissatisfaction by the people of Assam.

Above all, in January 2019, massive demonstrations against the ‘Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016’ (Now CAA) took place in Mizoram which even witnessed signs that said “Hello China..Bye Bye India”.

Slogans like these only mean providing an upper hand and leverage to the adversarial nation of China. They can take enormous advantage of it for their nefarious agenda about which I mentioned above. If similar outbreak of a similar or crisis resurfaces then external actors will indirectly or covertly fulfil their expansionist objective. Therefore, a peaceful settlement framework under the aegis of New Delhi is a must. So, that it prevents the domestic crisis/issue from being used by India’s adversaries.

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Assam- Mizoram Border Dispute, 6 killed

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Assam Mizoram Land dispute

An unfortunate incident occurred in North-East India yesterday evening when both the police forces of Mizoram and Assam clashed over at Lailapool of Cachar district, which has been known as a flashpoint of inter-state border clashes for decades. This time, it took an extremely barbaric turn when alleged Mizo assailants loaded with Light machine guns ( seen in different videos) fired on the Assam side leaving 5 jawans of Assam police dead on the spot and injuring around 65-75 more people.

IPS Vaibhav, SP, Cachar was shot too after which he was admitted to the ICU of Silchar Medical College. He may be flown to Mumbai for higher treatment. Meanwhile, the PSO of DC, Cachar was shot at to which he succumbed.

Both Assam Govt and Mizoram Govt have narrated their version of the story. But, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma strongly condemned the inhumane, undemocratic move of Mizoram Police and has talked with Mizoram CM over the incident. While CM Sarma thinks that this issue can be solved over discussions after satellite imaging surveys, he has also allowed Assam Police to retaliate and open fire from now on.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Monday, urged Chief Minister of Mizoram Zoramthanga to investigate this matter saying why civilians from his states were holding sticks and trying to incite violence on the Assam-Mizoram border.

He said, “Honble Zoramthanga Ji, could you please investigate why are civilians from Mizoram holding sticks and trying to incite violence? We urge civilians to not take up law and order on their own hands and permit peaceful dialogue to take place between governments.”

The Assam Govt has announced 50 lakh compensation for the family of every Jawan deceased in this unfortunate incident that rocked the Nation and has promised Govt a job for a person in the family of the deceased. He has also declared to raise a Commando- Batallion of 3000 soldiers for the protection of Barak Valley.

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Enhanced rainfall activities over Sikkim during the period 28th June to 2nd July

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"Rainfall in Sikkim"

On Sunday, Meteorological Department (IMD) said the Sikkim will witness heavy rainfall as the southwest monsoon will be covered in the Sikkim region.

Advancing further, the Southwest Monsoon covered the Sikkim region, nearly four days after its normal date.

Special Weather Bulletin Gangtok Said “Monsoon is advancing very well. It has advanced to Sikkim and parts of West Bengal 4 to 5 days in advance. The monsoon flow is strong and southwesterly winds have picked up on a large scale”

And around Sikkim- Rongli, Chungthang: 3 each; Shipgyer, Dentam: 2 each; Gangtok, Mazitar, Khanitar, Namthang, Damthang, Gyalshing: 1 each has Chief rainfall amount(in cm) recorded.

Current Meteorological Condition is saying that The northern Limit of southwest monsoon (NLM) continues to pass through Lat. 26°N / Long. 70°E, Barmer, Bhilwara, Dholpur, Aligarh, Meerut, Ambala and Amritsar. The trough at mean sea level now runs from East Uttar Pradesh to northwest Bay of Bengal across Jharkhand and Gangetic West Bengal

IMD has classified that the progress is going to slow over the next two days, i.e 28th June.

According to Weather Forecast Due to the expected shifting of the trough of low-pressure area north-wards and strong moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal, rainfall activities over all the districts of Sikkim very likely to be enhanced during the period 28th to 02nd July 2021. During this period, heavy to very heavy rain (07-20 cm) is very likely to occur at isolated places over the state, especially all over East and North Sikkim.

Sikkim has been witnessing heavy rainfall since last week causing heavy damage in Gangtok areas due to landslides. It’s also reported that landslide appeared in Some parts of North Sikkim which also caused east and north connecting bridge.

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Sikkim to get Sikkim House in Mumbai, relief for medical visitors

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On 31st January 2021, the Honourable CM of Sikkim PS Golay has announced Sikkim will have a Sikkim house in Mumbai soon.

Speaking with The Sikkim Today team in January 2021 in West Sikkim, Chief Minister PS Golay has approached Maharashtra Government for the construction of a Sikkim house in Navi, Mumbai on which the Maharastra govt agrees to accept this.

This house will be 6 km from the nearest airport and 2 km from Tata memorial hospital which be will easy for Sikkimese patients to get connected nearby.

Earlier lots of people from Sikkim who used to go to Mumbai for treatment but can’t find a reasonable place to stay and the Chief minister thought this Sikkim house will be accessible for those who are going to Mumbai for medical treatment.

Yesterday in Sikkim legislative assembly, Honourable Chief minister said ” Maharashtra government has approved our proposal to construct Sikkim House Navi Mumbai near the Tata Memorial Hospital which is one of the top hospitals in the country”

Land measuring 4000 square meter which is almost 1 acre has been allotted for which Rs 11 crore 97 lakhs has already been paid and taken in possession, said HCM in the Assembly.

This will ease the financial burden on our people travelling to Mumbai for treatment and also assist them in other matters,” Chief Minister P.S. Golay in his Budget speech on Monday.

Earlier, the patient from Sikkim used to stay in Hamro Chhahari which was launched years back by the Nepali community from overall which cost only 300/per day Room. But getting a room in Hamro Chhahari is also very difficult for many patients.

Protective Wall Binding Teesta Collapses Posing Threat For Erosions.

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The recent incessant rains in the state have transformed small streams into raging torrents and increased the water volumes of big Rivers like Teesta. The sudden rise in water level is an alarming bell for a few disasters in making. A portion of the protective wall guiding the flow of the Teesta has been washed away. A complete washout is evident if not taken care of and we are only in the first week of June.

The illegal quarrying, sand mining and breaking up of river boulders is the main reason for rivers to change courses and pose a threat. If this issue is not addressed at the earliest, the under-construction via-duct might be damaged.

Also, the settlements near the river belts are always at a threat during every monsoon. Most of the river belts in Sikkim have been plundered by sand mafias and river boulders broken down by stone breakers to feed them into the illegal crusher plants mushrooming in every nook and corner along the riverside. Sikkim is inviting a catastrophe and this will be man-made and not natural.

Seven Months After Disappearance, Body of Missing Sikkim Teacher Found in Siliguri House

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The skeletal remains of Passang Doma Sherpa, a 55-year-old government school teacher from Namchi district in Sikkim, were discovered inside a house in Siliguri, nearly seven months after she was reported missing.

Passang Doma Sherpa, who served as a Nepali teacher at Menglee Government School, had mysteriously vanished on August 7, 2024, without informing her family, friends, or colleagues. Her sudden disappearance had led to widespread concern and a months-long search by authorities and locals alike.

Confirming the development, Namchi Superintendent of Police Karma Gyamtso Bhutia stated that a team from Namchi Police located the remains and are now coordinating with forensic teams to establish the cause and circumstances of her death.

“The recovery was made in Siliguri after sustained follow-up on leads connected to her disappearance. Investigation is underway, and more information will be shared once forensic reports are available,” SP Bhutia said.

As investigations intensify, the Namchi Police are working closely with counterparts in West Bengal to piece together the final days of Passang Doma Sherpa’s life and identify any potential foul play. Her remains have been sent for autopsy, and police say all possibilities—including abduction, confinement, or unnatural death—are being considered.

Family members, who had been anxiously awaiting any update for the past seven months, are now grappling with grief and unanswered questions.

Centre Notifies New NH-210 in Sikkim to Boost Connectivity Between Melli and Singtam

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The Government of India has officially notified a new national highway in the state of Sikkim — National Highway 210 (NH-210) — as per Gazette Notification No. S.O. 2631(E) dated June 13, 2025, issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

The newly designated NH-210 will begin at its junction with NH-710 near the Melli Teesta Bridge and traverse important settlements such as Melli Bazar, Mamring, and Samardong, before terminating at its junction with NH-510 near Singtam. The highway spans an estimated 23 kilometers and is expected to significantly boost intra-state connectivity in southern and eastern Sikkim.

The responsibility for the development and maintenance of NH-210 has been entrusted to the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). Known for executing strategic infrastructure projects in challenging terrains, NHIDCL will oversee the planning, construction, and upkeep of the entire stretch.

While the exact budgetary allocation for NH-210 has not yet been publicly specified, similar greenfield projects in the region typically involve investments ranging from ₹300 crore to ₹500 crore. NHIDCL’s portfolio across the Northeast includes numerous such highway projects, with its national commitments exceeding ₹12,000 crore. The development of NH-210 will likely fall within this investment range, accounting for factors like difficult topography, land acquisition, and environmental clearance.

This infrastructure initiative is part of a broader push under the Bharatmala Pariyojana and the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, aimed at improving last-mile connectivity and accelerating economic development in remote regions. Once completed, NH-210 will reduce travel time, decongest alternative routes like NH-10, and offer more reliable access for both commuters and freight transport.

The new national highway is expected to have a transformative impact on the local economy, facilitating smoother access to markets, healthcare, and education for residents of Mamring, Samardong, and surrounding areas.

61-Year-Old Man Arrested for Alleged Sexual Assault of Minor in Sikkim

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A 61-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a minor girl in Gyalshing District. The incident reportedly took place on June 23 at the victim’s residence.

The matter came to light after the girl’s mother lodged a formal complaint with the police, filing a written First Information Report (FIR). Following the report, the minor was immediately provided medical examination, and her statement was recorded under Section 180 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.

Gyalshing Police have registered the case under FIR No. 15/2025, invoking Sections 7, 8, 9(M), and 10 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.

Authorities have confirmed that the accused is currently in custody, and an investigation is underway to gather further evidence and ascertain the full circumstances of the incident.

Five Youth from Sikkim Arrested in Darjeeling with Suspected Brown Sugar

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The Singla Police Outpost under Pulbazar Police Station in Darjeeling arrested five youth hailing from Sikkim for allegedly possessing suspected brown sugar. The arrests were made during a routine vehicle check, during which the police recovered a plastic pouch wrapped in brown and red cello tape. Inside the pouch were 19 small packets containing a brown powdery substance, suspected to be brown sugar.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Yogesh Rai (21) resident of Chitray Busty in Nayabazar; Bishal Subba (24) from Chisopani under Jorethang Police Station; Bibek Rai (25) from Nayabazar Housing; Sagar Tamang (26) from Mangsari under Soreng Police Station; and another Bishal Subba (25) from Namthang under Namchi Police Station. All five are residents of various parts of Sikkim.

According to police sources, upon being questioned, the accused confessed to having brought the contraband with the intention of both consuming and selling it for financial gain. The suspected narcotics have been seized and sent for forensic testing to confirm their composition.

The police have registered a case under the relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

Namchi Police Crack Down on Drug Trade in Temi Tarku

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Temi Police Station conducted a well-coordinated operation at Lower Namphing, Adarsh Goan, in Namchi District, leading to the seizure of a significant quantity of illicit substances.

The operation, carried out on the basis of credible source information, culminated in the arrest of Vivek Gurung, alias Pakawray, a 29-year-old resident of Lower Namphing. He is the son of Dhan Kumar Gurung. Police recovered the contraband from his possession during the raid.

A case has been formally registered against the accused under the Sikkim Anti-Drugs Act (SADA) at Temi Police Station. The nature and quantity of the contraband have not yet been disclosed, but authorities confirm that it represents a substantial bust in the region’s ongoing anti-narcotics campaign.

Namchi District Police, under the leadership of senior officials, have been intensifying their crackdown on drug networks across the district. This recent operation is being seen as a significant step in dismantling the supply chain operating in and around rural pockets of Namchi.

Local residents of Adarsh Goan have welcomed the prompt action by the police and expressed hope that such efforts will continue to make their community safer. Law enforcement officials have reiterated their appeal to the public to report any suspicious activity, ensuring that the fight against narcotics remains a collective effort.

The accused is currently in police custody, and further investigation is underway to trace the source and distribution network associated with the seized substances.

SiKM Hits Back at Pawan Kumar Chamling, Questions Komal Chamling’s Political Debut

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The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) held a detailed press conference on Tuesday countering the allegations made by former Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling during the SDF’s Kranti Diwas event. The ruling party defended its governance, questioned the political sincerity of Komal Chamling’s recent entry into active politics, and clarified its stance on identity, organic farming, youth leadership, and healthcare development.

Addressing the media, Yougen Tamang, Press Secretary to the Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay, emphasized that while constructive criticism is part of democracy, former leaders must not shy away from accountability. “Those who ruled for 25 years must also reflect on their failures. Criticising the current government while ignoring their own history is neither fair nor responsible,” Tamang stated.

Yougen Tamang expressed surprise at Komal Chamling’s claim of entering politics for the first time, noting her active participation in political events under SDF 2.0. “Her statement raises questions about her sincerity. One cannot be politically visible for years and suddenly pretend to be new,” he said.

Yougen Tamang also challenged Pawan Kumar Chamling’s repeated portrayal of himself as the architect of Sikkim’s organic movement. “The success of organic Sikkim belongs to its farmers. It wasn’t one man’s dream—it was the collective effort of the people,” he said, accusing Chamling of distorting facts for political mileage.

Responding to Chamling’s statements on Khas identity and the restoration of Nepali-speaking community seats, Bikash Basnett, Political Secretary to the Chief Minister and SKM spokesperson, strongly rejected what he called a “factually flawed and divisive narrative.”

Pawan Kumar Chamling had alleged that the SKM government’s efforts to restore reserved seats for the Nepali-speaking community and officially recognize the Chettri-Bahun (Khas) community lacked constitutional grounding. Bikash Basnett, however, clarified that the Nepali language is already part of the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution and the recognition of the Khas community was lawfully formalized in 2021 through a state notification.

“Pawan Kumar Chamling is deliberately misrepresenting facts to confuse the public. The recognition of Khas identity is not unconstitutional. In fact, it is a rightful acknowledgement of our cultural heritage,” said Basnett.

He also addressed opposition to the declaration of Khas Diwas as a state holiday, explaining that it is not rooted in religion or caste, but instead celebrates the socio-political identity and unity of the Nepali-speaking community. “Khas Diwas is a day of inclusion and heritage, not division,” he said.

SKM spokesperson Krishna Lepcha tackled allegations made by Rikzing Norbu Bhutia, SDF spokesperson, during the Kranti Diwas address. Rikzing Norbu Bhutia had criticized SKM’s promotion of Dalle Khursani (chilli) cultivation, claiming it was originally mocked by the current ruling party.

Krishna Lepcha responded by accusing the SDF of exploiting youth for political showmanship. “The same youth leader who once stood holding Dalle Khursani under SDF’s banner didn’t even receive a party ticket in the last election. What does that say about their commitment to young leadership?” he asked.

He also questioned the SDF’s claimed legacy of organic farming, stating that chemical fertilizers were widely distributed during its regime, contradicting the party’s current narrative. “The people made Sikkim organic, not political slogans,” Krishna Lepcha added.

The press conference also addressed Pawan Kumar Chamling’s controversial comments on the state’s healthcare system and Health Minister GT Dhungel. During his speech, Chamling had used the Nepali expression “thukka,” a gesture seen as highly disrespectful, suggesting that if he were in GT Dhungel’s position, he would have resigned out of shame.

Reacting strongly, Jacob Khaling Rai, Political Secretary to the Chief Minister and senior SKM spokesperson, called the remarks “undignified and unbecoming of a former Chief Minister.” He stated that the healthcare sector in Sikkim has been undergoing consistent improvements under the current administration and emphasized that political debate must remain civil and issue-based, not descend into personal attacks.

The SKM leaders concluded the press conference by reaffirming their commitment to transparent governance, people-centric development, and cultural recognition. They accused the opposition of trying to mislead the public through emotionally charged and inaccurate statements, instead of engaging constructively on real policy matters.

“While the SKM government focuses on unity, welfare, and development, the opposition continues to recycle outdated narratives for political gain,” said Jacob Khaling Rai.

Sikkim Health Dept Regularizes 893 Employees, More Orders Soon

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The Health Department has issued appointment orders to 893 employees in the first phase of regularization out of a total of 2,267 pending cases. The distribution ceremony took place in the presence of the Health Minister, Health Secretary, and other senior officials, marking a crucial milestone in the department’s efforts to acknowledge and stabilize its workforce.

The appointment orders were distributed across various key locations: 62 at the Head Office, 77 in Mangan, 186 in Singtam, 155 in Namchi, 176 in Gayzing, and 237 at STNM Hospital. These employees, many of whom have been serving for years on temporary or contractual terms, will now benefit from improved job security, recognition, and access to government employment benefits.

The remaining appointment orders are expected to be issued in the coming week, as the department continues its phased approach to cover all eligible candidates. This move not only brings relief to hundreds of dedicated health workers but also strengthens the healthcare system by motivating the frontline staff who play a critical role in delivering essential medical services across the state.

Pakyong Police Uproot 300 Marijuana Plants in Major Anti-Narcotics Operation

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Sikkim Police’s move against drug cultivation, Pakyong Police successfully uprooted around 300 marijuana plants during a major anti-narcotics operation. The action marks a major milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat drug abuse in the region.

The operation was conducted under the supervision of SDPO Pakyong, Shri Bikash Rai, with active participation from Panchayat members and local residents, showcasing strong community support in tackling illegal cultivation.

Police officials stated that continued surveillance and cooperation with the public are key to identifying and eliminating such activities. The local administration reiterated its commitment to keeping the area free from the influence of narcotics and urged residents to report any suspicious activity.

The success of this operation is expected to boost ongoing anti-drug campaigns in Pakyong district and inspire further community-driven initiatives against substance abuse.

Darjeeling’s Jason Moktan Becomes India’s First Triple Pro Card Holder in Natural Bodybuilding

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groundbreaking achievement, Assistant Professor Jason Moktan of St. Joseph’s College, Darjeeling, has made history in Indian natural bodybuilding. Competing at the prestigious Bangalore Royals national bodybuilding championship on June 21–22 at Shubh Convention Centre, Bengaluru, Moktan clinched gold in the Men’s Physique Overall division and silver in the Open Bodybuilding category — earning his third international pro card under the ICN (I Compete Natural) federation.

Out of nearly 350 national competitors, Moktan’s double victory stands out as a milestone. He is now the only Indian athlete to hold three international pro cards and four overall national titles in natural bodybuilding — a first for the country. The ICN is a globally recognized, WADA-aligned drug-tested federation.

Moktan, a sociology lecturer, balances academia with his athletic pursuits. “Balancing teaching with elite preparation is tough, but I’ve never compromised on either,” he shared. His mission is to inspire the youth of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Sikkim to stay clean, natural, and committed.

He acknowledged the partial support of Vikrun Foundation for this competition and urged the local government to take bodybuilding seriously to promote a drug-free sporting culture among the youth.

Moktan also mentors a growing team of regional athletes, preparing them for national platforms. His historic win is a proud moment for the Eastern Himalayan community, amplifying the potential of local talent on global stages.

“Never back down. Represent your roots. Stay clean, stay natural,” Moktan says.

Darjeeling’s Jason Moktan Becomes India’s First Triple Pro Card Holder in Natural Bodybuilding

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An Assistant Professor Jason Moktan of St. Joseph’s College, Darjeeling, has made history in Indian natural bodybuilding. Competing at the prestigious Bangalore Royals national bodybuilding championship on June 21–22 at Shubh Convention Centre, Bengaluru, Moktan clinched gold in the Men’s Physique Overall division and silver in the Open Bodybuilding category — earning his third international pro card under the ICN (I Compete Natural) federation.

Out of nearly 350 national competitors, Moktan’s double victory stands out as a milestone. He is now the only Indian athlete to hold three international pro cards and four overall national titles in natural bodybuilding — a first for the country. The ICN is a globally recognized, WADA-aligned drug-tested federation.

Moktan, a sociology lecturer, balances academia with his athletic pursuits. “Balancing teaching with elite preparation is tough, but I’ve never compromised on either,” he shared. His mission is to inspire the youth of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Sikkim to stay clean, natural, and committed.

He acknowledged the partial support of Vikrun Foundation for this competition and urged the local government to take bodybuilding seriously to promote a drug-free sporting culture among the youth.

Moktan also mentors a growing team of regional athletes, preparing them for national platforms. His historic win is a proud moment for the Eastern Himalayan community, amplifying the potential of local talent on global stages.

“Never back down. Represent your roots. Stay clean, stay natural,” Moktan says.