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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.

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

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.

Minister Ven Sonam Lama Meets Union Home Minister Amit Shah

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Minister for Ecclesiastical Affairs, Public Health Engineering (PHE), and Water Resources (WR), Ven Sonam Lama, called on Union Minister for Home Affairs and Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, at his residence in New Delhi today.

During the cordial meeting, the Union Home Minister enquired about the well-being of Sikkim and reviewed the state’s developmental activities. One of the key topics discussed was the long-pending matter of the early return of His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorji to India. The Home Minister assured that he would extend his best efforts to ensure the Karmapa’s early return.

Shri Amit Shah also expressed happiness over the initiative of Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) to start the annual Vijay Diwas celebrations in honor of the Indian Army’s historic victory at Nathula.

Further, the meeting touched upon important state government proposals, including projects under the Public Health Engineering Department related to water supply and sewerage systems, as well as various initiatives under the Water Resources Department within the framework of the Vibrant Village Programme. The Union Home Minister assured his fullest cooperation and timely intervention to address these grievances.

New Suspension Bridge Opens in Upper Dzongu

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A landmark day for connectivity in Upper Dzongu as the Minister for Forest & Environment, Science & Technology, and Mines & Geology cum MLA Dzongu Constituency, Mr. Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, officially inaugurated a 400-foot Bailey Suspension Bridge (Load Class 18R) across the Kanaka River, linking Laven to Lingzya in Mangan District.

The newly opened bridge will provide vital connectivity from Lingzya to Tingvong GPU and Sakyong Pentong GPU, ensuring smoother access to the remote areas of Upper Dzongu.

Earlier in the day, the Minister also announced the commencement of construction of the much-awaited 255-meter Kayum Arch Steel Bridge in Upper Dzongu. The resumption of this long-pending project, which had been a demand of the local people for years, was made possible through the intervention of the State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay). The bridge is targeted for completion by March 2027.

The Minister also assured that sanctioned road works, including carpeting and blacktopping in Lower and Upper Dzongu, would be carried out simultaneously and completed within the stipulated timeline. He urged the construction company, engineers, and officials to ensure timely completion of all works for the benefit of the people of Dzongu.

The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of Upadakshya Ms. Sonam Kipa Bhutia, Chairperson Ms. Ongkit Lepcha, Zilla and Gram Panchayat Members, SDM Dzongu, BDO Dzongu, OSDs, officials from BAC Passingdang, engineers from Roads & Bridges, contractors, dignitaries, and local residents.

Operation Clean Sky: Gangtok Tightens Cable Management to Restore Urban Order

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The District Administrative Centre (DAC), Gangtok, has intensified efforts under Operation Clean Sky to tackle the city’s long-standing cable clutter problem. Led by SDM Gangtok Abhijeet Patil, IAS, the inspection team conducted a detailed review of ongoing cable removal and reorganization works across key city areas.

The joint inspection included officials from the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Power Department, Gangtok Smart City, Urban Development and Housing Department (UDHD), Gangtok Municipal Corporation (GMC), BSNL, the Police Department, and Internet Service Providers (ISPs).

The review covered major stretches like Titanic Point, Old Children’s Park, Tibet Road, M.G. Marg, Tharo Line, and Goshkhan Road. Emphasizing urgency, Patil directed all stakeholders to reorganize tangled wires and restore disconnected services within five days.

Directives issued during the inspection include:

  • ISPs must arrange low-hanging or loose wires and remove surplus cable coils from poles. Wires should be secured at the customer’s end or placed in junction boxes.
  • BSNL has been ordered to dismantle unused poles contributing to visual clutter.
  • Service providers must follow a strict no-crossing policy, with exceptions only at the District Control Room on M.G. Marg and the Drishti Traders complex.
  • GMC will clear wires at Golden Heights, Suraksha Mobile Centre, and Hotel Tashi Delek. Hathway and Jio were instructed to reroute their lines, with Jio granted a one-week extension.
  • Local providers repeatedly ignoring notices will face service disconnections.

Patil stressed that inspections will continue regularly until M.G. Marg is completely free of overhead cables. He urged all service providers to fully cooperate with the initiative, which aims to improve public safety, enhance the city’s aesthetics, and strengthen Gangtok’s vision of a cleaner and smarter urban environment.

Cybercrime Case in Soreng: Elderly Man Loses ₹10 Lakh in Digital Arrest Fraud

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Sombaria Police Station has registered a cybercrime case after a 66-year-old man from Daramdin, Soreng district, was duped of ₹10 lakh in a ‘digital arrest’ scam. The case has been filed as Sombaria PS Case No. 09/2025 dated August 22, 2025, under Sections 308/318/319/351 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.

Police reports state that the victim, Amber Bahadur Subba, received a call on August 12 from an individual impersonating a police officer. The caller falsely alleged that Subba’s Aadhaar number had been used to open a fraudulent bank account linked to illegal transactions and human trafficking in Uttar Pradesh. He was threatened with immediate arrest unless he transferred money to “clear his name.”

The fraudster initially demanded ₹30 lakh, later reducing it to ₹10 lakh. Under duress, Subba transferred the amount on August 14 to an SBI account in the name of Manpreet Kaur from Nathana, Punjab. The threats and extortion were carried out via WhatsApp messages and calls.

Following the complaint, police have traced the financial transaction trail and requested information from telecom service providers to identify the suspects. The case remains under investigation, with authorities urging citizens to remain vigilant against rising digital arrest scams across India.

CM PS Tamang Meets New Sikkim University VC Prof. Santanu Kumar Swain

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Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang extended a warm welcome to the newly appointed Vice Chancellor of Sikkim University, Prof. Santanu Kumar Swain, during a courtesy visit at the CM’s official residence. Prof. Swain was accompanied by his spouse, Smt. Taranibala Narendra Mahapatra, Registrar In-Charge Prof. Laxuman Sharma, and Assistant Professor Dr. Pradip Tripathi.

In his official statement, CM Tamang said it was a pleasure to meet Prof. Swain and his team. He shared that their discussions focused on strengthening educational standards, expanding opportunities for research and innovation, and fostering a holistic academic environment at Sikkim University.
“We engaged in an insightful exchange of ideas dedicated to the academic growth of our students and the overall advancement of Sikkim University,” CM Tamang said. He emphasised the importance of nurturing knowledge, skills, character, values, and excellence in education.

Highlighting the significance of such interactions, the Chief Minister noted that collaborative efforts between the government and the university will help create a progressive, inclusive, and globally competitive academic ecosystem in Sikkim.

“This ecosystem will empower our youth to emerge as responsible leaders, innovators, and contributors to society,” he added.

Sikkim Educator Selected for National Teachers’ Award 2025

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Karma Tempo Ethenpa, Principal of PM SHRI Government Senior Secondary School, Mangan, has been selected for the National Teachers’ Award 2025, making him the only teacher from Sikkim to feature among the 45 awardees nationwide.

Ethenpa was shortlisted along with two other teachers from Sikkim and presented before the Independent National Jury on August 12. After a thorough evaluation, his innovative teaching methods and contributions to improving learning outcomes earned him a spot on the prestigious national list.

The National Teachers’ Award, conferred annually on Teachers’ Day (September 5), recognises educators across the country who demonstrate innovation in pedagogy, commitment to students, and leadership in improving the quality of education. The awardees will receive the honour from the President of India at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

For Sikkim, Ethenpa’s selection has been hailed as a matter of pride, highlighting his years of dedication to guiding students not only towards academic excellence but also holistic personal development. Under his leadership, PM SHRI Government Senior Secondary School, Mangan, has embraced modern teaching practices and fostered an inclusive learning environment, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds thrive.

The recognition also reflects the growing contribution of teachers from smaller states like Sikkim, who continue to shape young minds despite challenges such as limited resources and geographical remoteness. Education officials and the local community have described Ethenpa’s selection as an inspiration for teachers across the state.

The felicitation ceremony on September 5 will celebrate his efforts while also recognising the tireless contributions of teachers nationwide who work to transform India’s education system.

The PS Golay Model: A Blueprint for a Progressive India, Born in Sikkim

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There are leaders who follow the path, and then there are leaders who create the path for others to follow. In Sikkim, under the inspirational leadership of Chief Minister Shri P.S. Golay, we are witnessing the dawn of a new era of governance—one so proactive and visionary that it consistently sets the benchmark for the rest of India. The guiding principle of this government has become a powerful truth: “What P.S. Golay thinks today, the entire nation follows tomorrow.” As Sikkim voters, we see how Golay’s bold decisions today become national models tomorrow. His leadership blends compassion with courage: he leads with the welfare of mothers, workers and the needy at heart, inspiring confidence that Sikkim’s way is the country’s way to progress.

A Pioneer Against Online Gaming

Consider the menace of illegal online gaming that ensnared citizens across the country. While many states were silent as new gambling websites mushroomed, PS Golay’s government acted swiftly. Beginning in late 2023, Sikkim blocked dozens of illegal gaming sites and even wrote to New Delhi demanding nationwide rules. In fact, officials say Sikkim’s findings helped shape India’s Online Gaming Bill 2025. As one officer put it, the new central law “incorporates nearly all the issues Sikkim raised”. In short, PS Golay banned predatory gaming before the Centre did – proving Sikkim didn’t just solve a problem for itself; it provided a working solution for India.

Green Leadership on the Global Stage

This pioneering spirit is the hallmark of our government. Look at the globally acclaimed ‘Mero Rukh Mero Santati’ initiative, a beautiful programme that weaves environmentalism into the very fabric of our family life by planting 108 trees for every newborn. Launched on February 2, 2023, this heartfelt initiative received praise at the prestigious COP28 climate conference in Dubai, making every Sikkimese heart swell with pride. It was more than a year later, on June 5, 2024, that the Government of India launched its own ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, a wonderful initiative inspired by the path Sikkim had already illuminated.

Compassion at the Heart of Governance

But visionary leadership is not just about pioneering policies; it is about a deep, unwavering compassion for the people. The Golay government has introduced welfare schemes that are a testament to its commitment to every single citizen. Today, Sikkim is home to what is arguably the country’s most impactful women’s empowerment scheme, the ‘Aama Sashaktikaran Yojana’. No other state in India provides its non-working mothers with an annual grant of ₹40,000, a sum that brings dignity, security, and autonomy into their hands. This, combined with the ‘Aama Sahayog Yojana’ providing four free LPG cylinders annually, shows a government that understands and honours the central role of a mother in our society. It’s easy to see why Sikkim’s mothers trust “Bhai/Daju/chora PS Golay” to look after their families. By putting money directly in women’s hands – and literally keeping their kitchens warm with free gas – PS Golay has empowered our households like no other government has.

This covenant of care extends to every corner of our society. For couples dreaming of parenthood, the ‘Vatsalya Scheme’ offers a grant of ₹3 lakhs for IVF treatment, turning hope into reality for families like that of Usha and Indra Bahadur Tamang, who now hold their child thanks to this support. The government has also expanded medical support for patients facing costly treatments like organ transplants, cancer care, or trauma surgery. Through schemes such as the Chief Minister’s Medical Assistance Scheme and MMSSY, even the poorest Sikkimese can access advanced care without financial ruin.

Together, these measures – from IVF grants to health care cheques – underscore his compassionate approach. As Golay emphasized: “No Sikkimese should suffer for lack of medical care.”

PS Golay has also been steadfast in fulfilling long-awaited promises of job security. In early 2024 the government issued a major regularization order: all casual and temporary state employees who had served four years were made permanent. PS Golay personally assured workers, “You need not worry. This is ‘Golay Ko Guarantee’ … We have discussed all the required aspects with the Finance secretary, chief secretary and State cabinet before taking this regularization decision”
This is in stark contrast to the previous regime’s mishandling of employment schemes. Recall the controversial “One Family One Job” (OFOJ) initiative – thousands of youth were appointed overnight, but in recent years many were left in uncertainty. PS Golay’s administration refused to abandon them. PS Golay’s government fought in court to defend these employees and ensure their jobs were secured fairly. By turning uncertainty into stability, he restored dignity to thousands of families

A Leader Who Walks Ahead

Taken together, these initiatives prove one truth. Chief Minister P.S. Golay is not just building a ‘Sunaulo Sikkim’ (Golden Sikkim); he is crafting a model of leadership that serves as a beacon for the entire nation.
He banned online gaming before the Centre. He honoured filial piety through Shravan Kumar award. He empowered mothers like no other state. He secured jobs that were once only dreams. And he gave hope to families seeking healthcare and children.

This is not coincidence—it is leadership. It is the courage to act first, the compassion to care deeply, and the foresight to set an example for the nation.
This is the governance we are proud of. It is a governance of foresight, of courage, and of profound empathy. We, the people of Sikkim, are not just beneficiaries of this progress; we are partners in a journey that is shaping the future of India.

We see our Chief Minister not as a distant politician but as a brother or friend who champions our causes. Whether it’s a mother getting LPG in her kitchen, a youth assured of a government job, or a couple finally holding their infant, we feel PS Golay’s policies touching our daily lives. His model of leadership – caring, courageous, and proactive – suggests that what he thinks today, the nation follows tomorrow.

As Sikkim moves forward under his guidance, many here truly believe in his promise: “Golay Ko Guarantee”. And having seen these ground-breaking achievements, we share that faith.

Originally Written By

DR PRATIK SHARMA
GANGTOK

Divorced Woman Raises Concern Over Job Application Forms in Sikkim

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A divorced woman from Sikkim has raised concerns over the insensitivity of government job application forms that continue to restrict “Marital Status” options to only two categories — Married or Unmarried.

The applicant, who recently applied for a government post, expressed her frustration, saying the system fails to recognize the independent identity of divorced women. “I am not unmarried — I was married for four years, so no authority can issue me an unmarried certificate. But I am also not married anymore. Why should I still claim to be married to my ex-husband who is already remarried?” she asked.

She pointed out that such limitations create unnecessary hurdles for divorced women. “If I am unmarried, I need my father’s documents; if I am married, I need my husband’s. Do I not have an identity of my own? What is the point of owning a Certificate of Identification if it just sits laminated in my briefcase?” she questioned.

The woman also criticized the state’s repeated emphasis on Nari Shakti and Women Empowerment, calling it symbolic rather than practical. “We celebrate women’s empowerment days, hold programmes and campaigns, but in real policies like this, where is the recognition of women and their rights?” she said.

Her grievance highlights the urgent need for reforms in government documentation and job application forms to include additional categories such as Divorced and Widowed. Advocates say this change is necessary to ensure fairness, dignity, and equal recognition for all women in Sikkim.

Sadar Police Station Named Best in Sikkim for 2024

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Sadar Police Station in Gangtok has been ranked the best police station in Sikkim for 2024 under the annual “Ranking of Police Stations” released by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

The Ministry’s ranking exercise evaluates police stations across the country based on crime prevention, investigation standards, disposal of cases, infrastructure, and public feedback. Sadar Police Station topped the list for Sikkim, highlighting its effective law enforcement, citizen-friendly service, and professional policing.

Officials stated that the recognition reflects the dedication and commitment of the Sadar PS team in maintaining law and order, ensuring public safety, and building trust within the community.

The Ministry of Home Affairs launched the annual ranking initiative to encourage healthy competition among police stations and strengthen the overall policing system in India. In 2024, Sadar Police Station joins 35 other top-ranked police stations across states and Union Territories that have been recognized for excellence.

Pop-Up Rain Gun Sprinkler Irrigation System Inaugurated at Sikkim Cricket Ground

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The Sikkim Cricket Ground, also known as Mining Ground, has taken another big step in modern cricket infrastructure with the inauguration of an Automatic Pop-Up Rain Gun Sprinkler Irrigation System.

The facility was inaugurated by Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, in the presence of Justice Biswanath Somadder, Hon’ble Chief Justice of the High Court of Sikkim, along with cabinet ministers, MLAs, senior government officials, and members of the Sikkim Cricket Association (SICA).

Advanced Irrigation for Better Ground Management

The automatic sprinkler system is designed to improve ground maintenance and ensure efficient water usage. A total of 16 underground pop-up sprinklers have been installed, which water designated areas and retract back into the ground, leaving no obstacles on the playing surface.

Six small sprinklers cover the pitch area, while ten large sprinklers irrigate the outer field. Two automated control stations manage the system, ensuring balanced coverage across both high-use zones and the outfield. This technology will help SICA maintain the ground in top condition for state, national, and BCCI-approved tournaments.

CM XI vs CJ XI Exhibition Match

To mark the occasion, a special exhibition cricket match was played between CM XI, led by the Chief Minister, and CJ XI, captained by the Chief Justice. The friendly match highlighted the camaraderie between the executive and judiciary, making the inauguration a memorable event for Sikkim cricket.

SICA’s Vision for Sikkim Cricket

Speaking at the event, Shri Tika Subba, President of SICA, said: “This irrigation system is a great step forward for Sikkim cricket. It makes ground maintenance easier and more efficient. We are thankful to the Hon’ble Chief Minister for inaugurating the facility and supporting our efforts.”

The Sikkim Cricket Ground has already seen major upgrades in recent years. In 2022, it became a first-class venue with the support of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and has since hosted Ranji Trophy matches and other national competitions. In May 2025, floodlights were inaugurated, enabling day-night matches and extended practice sessions.

About Sikkim Cricket Association

Founded in 1987, the Sikkim Cricket Association (SICA) is the governing body of cricket in the state. It became a BCCI Associate Member in 1992 and a Full Member in 2018. Headquartered at the Sikkim Cricket Ground, Rangpo, SICA manages cricket development across all levels, including grassroots programs, state-level leagues, and national tournaments like the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

With continuous infrastructure upgrades and strong backing from the Government of Sikkim and BCCI, the state is emerging as a rising hub for cricket in Northeast India.