Monday, December 23, 2024
Home Blog

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

By
Riddhik Parashar
-
0
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.

Also, Read| IIT Bombay allows Afghani students to join classes

Assam- Mizoram Border Dispute, 6 killed

By
Saiket Sharma
-
0
Assam Mizoram Land dispute
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.

Also Read – Expert claim data leaks, Clubhouse denies

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

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0
corona sikkim
Corona case 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.

Also Read – Sikkim recorded 170 new covid cases and 00 New Death

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

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0

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.

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0

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.

Sikkim Empowers Pashusakhis with Livestock Training Program

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0

The Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AH & VS) Department of Sikkim, in collaboration with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), has successfully concluded a 16-day intensive training program for 25 Pashusakhis under the Sikkim Rural Livelihoods Mission (SRLM). The program, held from December 3 to December 18, 2024, at the Sokeythang Training Centre, aimed to revolutionize Sikkim’s livestock sector by creating certified Accredited Agents for Health and Extension of Livestock Production (A-HELPs).

Participants received hands-on training in advanced animal handling, modern housing practices, ration balancing, first aid procedures, and sustainable livestock management. Field visits to prestigious facilities, including Mamring Gaushala, Singhari Goat Conservation Farm, Sikkim Milk Union, and the State Veterinary Polyclinic, further enhanced their practical knowledge.

The valedictory ceremony on December 19, 2024, was graced by Principal Director Dr. Anand Thapa and senior officials from AH & SRLM. Dr. Thapa emphasized the program’s impact in bridging gaps between veterinary services and farming communities, fostering sustainable livestock management practices, and improving animal health outcomes across Sikkim. This initiative marks a significant step forward in Sikkim’s Animal Husbandry development.

Governor of Sikkim Attends Flag-In Ceremony of the National Integration Tour

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0

The Governor of Sikkim, Shri Om Prakash Mathur, attended the “FLAG-IN CEREMONY” of the National Integration Tour 2024 held at Raj Bhavan. The National Integration Tour was organized by the Indian Army – Black Cat Division, Gangtok under the aegis of the Tri Shakti Corps at Raj Bhavan, Gangtok.

This initiative aims to inspire and empower the youth, equipping them to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth and development.
In his address, the Governor expressed his appreciation for the Army, particularly the GOC of the 17 Mountain Division, Major General, Shri Amit Kabtiyal, for conceptualising and implementing the visionary National Integration Program. He highlighted the program’s focus on the holistic development of students, who are the torchbearers of the nation’s future in its journey towards Viksit Bharat @ 2047.


The Governor lauded the Indian Army’s efforts in engaging students from rural areas of Sikkim, offering them not just a tour but a comprehensive learning experience about the nation.

He acknowledged the video presentation, which showcased how the students travelled across the nation and gained profound insights into India’s rich cultural heritage and values.

He further emphasized that the students witnessed the bravery and democratic spirit of the nation and urged them to document their experiences from the past six-day tour in a journal. These journals should be sent to him, following which the students would be invited to Raj Bhavan for a discussion on their learnings and reflections.

Moreover, the Governor underscored the importance of such initiatives, describing them as vital opportunities for the youth, who serve as the guiding light for the nation’s progress.
The Hon’ble Governor also presented mementoes to the students, acknowledging their enthusiasm and participation in the program.


The Hon’ble Governor also unveiled a photo album documenting the tour.
During the event, a video of the tour was presented, along with a travelogue shared by the students. They expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Indian Army for taking them out of their villages and providing them an opportunity to visit Delhi, Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Kolkata.
The students described their visit to Delhi as a dream come true. They also shared how visiting the Indian Army’s training centre and witnessing the rigorous training of soldiers had a profound impact on them, inspiring them to aspire to join the Indian Army and empowering them to dream of a brighter and better future.
Earlier, the event commenced with Major Mukul Dutt briefing the attendees on the National Integration Tour, which included 35 students and 4 teachers from East Sikkim. The tour aimed to foster patriotism and instil a sense of freedom. Beginning in Sikkim, the tour’s itinerary covered Delhi, Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Kolkata. It provided the students with an opportunity to broaden their horizons by exploring India’s cultural diversity and development while engaging with dignitaries at the forefront of the country’s premier Armed Forces and Civil Administration institutions.

The event concluded with the Governor waving the flag, marking the official closure of the National Integration Tour.

Rare Snake Named Boiga Stoliczkae Species Discovered in Sikkim

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0

A new snake species, Boiga stoliczkae, has been identified in Rimbi, Sikkim, by naturalist Sonam Pintso Sherpa on December 13, 2024. Previously thought to be a sub-species of the Tawny Cat Snake (Boiga ochracea), recent studies by Kohler et al. (2023) have confirmed its status as a distinct species.

This mildly venomous snake, known for its orange coloration, was previously observed in Bhutan and Darjeeling but poses no danger to humans.

Nepal’s Bibek Pangeni who was fighting with cancer in US is no more.

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0

Bibek Pangeni, a Nepali PhD student in Physics and Astronomy at the University of Georgia, left the world too soon, succumbing to a brain tumor after a valiant two-year battle. Diagnosed in 2022, Bibek faced his illness with remarkable courage and determination, continuing to inspire those around him even in the face of immense challenges. His journey was one of hope, resilience, and the unyielding human spirit.

Standing steadfastly by his side throughout his ordeal was his wife, Srijana Subedi. Srijana’s dedication to her husband was nothing short of extraordinary. She became his caregiver, his advocate, and his unwavering source of strength, sacrificing her own aspirations and needs to ensure Bibek received the best possible care. Through the countless hospital visits, treatments, and moments of uncertainty, she remained a beacon of hope and support, embodying the truest form of love and devotion.

Despite their relentless fight and the support of friends, family, and the medical team, Bibek’s condition continued to worsen. He fought bravely until the very end, but today, his battle came to an end as he took his final breath. His passing leaves an indescribable void, not only for Srijana but also for the Nepali community and all who were touched by his story.

Sikkim Creates History with Four Medals at 1st North East Para Sports Meet

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0

Sikkimese Para Athletes achieved a historic milestone by winning four medals at the 1st North East Para Sports Meet, marking a proud moment for the state.

Phuntsok Tashi Bhutia, an Accounts Clerk at Kabi BAC, clinched Sikkim’s first-ever Gold Medal in Table Tennis by defeating Assam’s Manoj in the final with a 3-1 set victory. Nim Dorjee Tamang secured a Bronze Medal in the 100m Freestyle Swimming, while Sher Bahadur Thapa and D. B. Basnett each earned Bronze in Shot Put.

Under the guidance of the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs (SYA), Sikkim sent eight Para Athletes to participate in the prestigious event. Deputy Director Norbu Tshering Bhutia led the team as Manager, with Pema Chenzem Bhutia as Assistant Coach. Hon’ble Minister for SYA, Shri Raju Basnett, extended his best wishes to the athletes before their departure on November 24, in the presence of Secretary Shri M. T. Sherpa.

The Department of SYA also organized a short coaching camp at Khelgaon and Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, providing TA/DA and sports kits.

This victory not only celebrates individual achievements but also showcases Sikkim’s growing prominence in Para Sports.

Dr. R B Biswakarma.

Sikkim’s Sonam Pintso Sherpa Wins Green Journalist Award

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0

Sonam Pintso Sherpa, a renowned butterfly expert and conservationist from Rimbi, West Sikkim, has been honored with the Green Journalist Award at the 12th annual Balipara Foundation Awards held in Guwahati on Wednesday.

At 38, Sonam Pintso has dedicated his life to documenting and promoting Sikkim’s rich butterfly diversity, earning him widespread recognition in the field of environmental conservation. The award celebrates his outstanding contributions to environmental reporting and sustainability advocacy.

The Balipara Foundation Awards recognize individuals and organizations making impactful contributions to nature conservation and community resilience. This year’s ceremony brought together leading environmentalists and stakeholders who praised Sonam Pintso’s role in advancing awareness and action toward protecting biodiversity.

Sonam Pintso’s achievements underscore the growing importance of community-led conservation efforts in preserving Sikkim’s natural heritage.

Supreme Court Dismisses Petitions Against Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0

The Supreme Court has dismissed two petitions challenging the appointment of Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and the Election Commission’s decision to reduce his disqualification period from six years to one. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan disposed of the petitions following withdrawal applications filed by Bimal Dawari Sharma and JB Darnal, functionaries of the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF).

Bimal Dawari Sharma, General Secretary of the SDF, and JB Darnal, Vice President of the party, claimed they never authorized anyone to file the petitions on their behalf. The Court acknowledged allegations that the petitioners might have faced external pressure to withdraw but emphasized that no one could be compelled to pursue a case.

The Court noted that Sharma’s petition was filed in his personal capacity and found no evidence of party authorization for Darnal’s substitution. Justice Surya Kant remarked that if such authorization existed, it should have been substantiated with a party resolution.

Senior Advocate Dr. GV Rao, representing the SDF, argued that the petitions were filed on behalf of the party. However, the Court found no evidence of SDF’s official approval.

While these petitions were dismissed, the Court clarified that the SDF or other public-spirited entities could file fresh challenges. A separate petition by Lok Prahari, a registered society, remains active and will proceed in due course.

Tribeny Rai’s ‘Shape of Momo’ Gains Global Recognition

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0

Tribeny Rai’s ‘Shape of Momo’ Gains Global Recognition at Film Bazaar 2024

Sikkimese filmmaker Tribeny Rai’s debut feature film, Shape of Momo, is making waves on the global stage even before its completion. The film was jointly declared a winner, alongside Ridham Janve’s Hunter’s Moon, at the prestigious Work-in-Progress Lab during Film Bazaar 2024, held in Goa from November 20-28.

This recognition comes with significant in-kind support from Prasad Lab and Nube Studio, helping to propel the project toward completion. The film has also captured the attention of international media, including the renowned U.S.-based news outlet Variety.

Shape of Momo, a full-length Nepali feature, tells the inspiring story of a woman defying patriarchal norms. Shot extensively in and around Nandok, Sikkim, the project highlights the region’s culture and landscapes. Tribeny expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing the importance of representing Sikkim on an international platform.

With post-production yet to begin, the filmmaker is seeking additional funding to complete this ambitious project. This milestone adds to Tribeny Rai’s achievements as a national award-winning filmmaker and showcases Sikkim’s growing presence in global cinema.

Sikkim State Cooperative Bank Wins National Award for ‘Overall Best Performance

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0

Sikkim State Cooperative Bank Ltd. (SISCO Bank) has been honored with the prestigious third prize for ‘Overall Best Performance’ under the II Tier Structure at the All India Level for the year 2022-23. The award, presented by the National Federation of State Cooperative Banks (NAFSCOB), recognizes the bank’s outstanding achievements and contributions to the cooperative banking sector.

The award ceremony took place at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, on Tuesday. Smt. Pema Chenzom, Managing Director of SISCO Bank, received the award from the Honourable Minister Shri Amit Shaji.

This accolade is a testament to SISCO Bank’s consistent efforts to enhance its services, maintain financial stability, and promote inclusive growth. The bank has played a pivotal role in advancing financial inclusion and supporting cooperative banking initiatives in the region, earning national recognition for its achievements.

The recognition reaffirms the bank’s commitment to serving the community and fostering development through innovative financial solutions and dedicated service.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) Extends Warm Greetings on Constitution Day

By
Jeewan Dahal
-
0

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) today extended his warmest greetings and best wishes to the people of Sikkim and the entire nation on the occasion of Constitution Day. In a statement, CM Golay acknowledged the importance of this day in honoring the foundational document that governs the democratic fabric of India.

On this significant day, CM Golay emphasized the remarkable vision and tireless efforts of the framers of the Indian Constitution. He paid tribute to the exceptional leadership of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, whose intellect and foresight played an instrumental role in shaping the Constitution that continues to guide the nation.

“Today, we remember and express our deepest gratitude to the patriots, freedom fighters, visionary leaders, and the countless martyrs whose sacrifices made this day possible. Their unwavering courage and commitment laid the groundwork for a sovereign and democratic India,” said CM Golay.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the values enshrined in the Constitution – justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity – which form the cornerstone of the Indian Republic. He called upon the people to reaffirm their commitment to these ideals, working towards an inclusive, harmonious, and progressive society that ensures equal opportunities for all citizens to thrive.

“As we celebrate this momentous day, let us take pride in the spirit of democracy that binds us together as a nation. Our Constitution stands as a beacon of hope and unity, and it is our collective responsibility to uphold its values and work towards a brighter future for all,” CM Golay added.

The Chief Minister concluded his message by wishing everyone a Happy Constitution Day, urging all to contribute to the continued success and progress of India’s democratic journey.

123...60Page 1 of 60

The Sikkim Today is 24X7 news channel in Sikkim & Beyond. We are active around the clock to serve you with the latest happenings and incidents without it getting stale.

Quick Links

Contact us: contact@thesikkimtoday.com

Latest News

Watch TST TV

Popular Categories

© Copyright - The Sikkim Today