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India Continues to Advance as a Global Financial Powerhouse: NSE MD & CEO

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO of the National Stock Exchange (NSE), said that India continues to advance as a global financial powerhouse, underlining the inherent strength of the country’s stock markets.

He observed that even amid global uncertainty, India’s markets remain resilient, offering investors both stability and growth opportunities. Outlining his vision for Viksit Bharat 2047, he noted that the nation’s growth story is built on strong fundamentals, structural reforms, rapid digitisation, and expanding domestic demand.

The NSE Chief added that despite geopolitical tensions, tighter monetary policies worldwide, and volatile commodity prices, Indian stock markets remain steady. This strength, he noted, comes from high economic growth, one of the world’s largest savings pools, and strong, well-capitalised banks. He also pointed to ongoing reforms and rapid digitisation that are widening financial participation across the country.

Chauhan stressed that history backs this confidence. Over the last three decades, India has faced and overcome many global shocks. These include the Asian financial crisis of the 1990s, the aftermath of 9/11, the 2008 global financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Each time, he said, India not only weathered the storm but came out stronger, with deeper reforms, stronger institutions, and greater investor trust.

He further said that as domestic demand grows and technology reshapes industries, Indian markets are well placed to handle global volatility. At the same time, they continue to give long-term stability and attractive opportunities for investors.

Chauhan concluded by stating that this resilience—driven by prudent regulation and strong governance—ensures that India is not just handling turbulence. Instead, the country is steadily moving towards its vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, as a leading global economic and financial powerhouse.

NSE India, or the National Stock Exchange of India, is the leading stock exchange in the country and one of the largest in the world by market capitalisation.

SKM Sports Wing presented the “Lifetime Sports Achievement Award to Dr. R.B. Biswakarma.

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Dr. Ram Bahadur Bishwakarma (Dr. RB Bishwakarma) is a prominent figure in the realm of sports in Sikkim. Well knownfor his administrative skills within the Sikkimese sports community, Dr. R. B. Bishwakarma currently plays a vital role in developing sports in Sikkim as the Additional Director in the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Government of Sikkim.

He is the first and only individual to obtain a PhD degree in Sports Science from Sikkim. Following his initial appointment as District Sports Officer in the State Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Dr. Bishwakarma has made significant contributions to the development of sports in the state, serving as Deputy Director, Joint Director, and presently as Additional Director of the Department.

He has been instrumental in formulating visionary policies for the development of sports, enhancing sports infrastructure, and ensuring the welfare of athletes in the state.
He is not just a government officer; he also holds various positions in several sports organizations, including the Sikkim Amateur Boxing Association, Sikkim Olympic Association, and Sikkim Amateur Athletics Association, where he actively promotes these sports and mentors players as a guardian.

Additionally, for many years, Dr. Bishwakarma has made invaluable contributions to the holistic development of differently-abled children and the enhancement of their sporting abilities as a member of the Spastic Society of Sikkim. He is a founding member of Special Olympics Sikkim Chapter and Para Sports in Sikkim.

Dr. RB Bishwakarma, as he is often referred as, serves not only as a government official and a sports promoter but also as a genuine benefactor to his community. As the General Secretary of Bishwakarma (Kami) Kalyan Samiti, Sikkim and as a senior member of the All Sikkim Scheduled Caste Welfare Association, he has made significant contributions towards the welfare and advancement of the Scheduled Castes.

During the lockdown phase of the Covid -19 pandemic, under his guidance, numerous humanitarian initiatives were launched to assist impoverished families residing in remote villages and settlements throughoutthe state. Additionally, RB Sir, recognized as a champion for the preservation of culture and traditions, is known for his friendly and supportive nature as well.

Dr. RB Bishwakarma can well be described as a competent sports administrator, an enthusiastic sports promoter and a committed social worker.

He extends his sincere gratitude to the HCM,Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) of Sikkim for this big honour, and also to Shri Tenzing Lamtha, Hon’ble Area MLA and Shri Rinzing Wangyal Bhutia, Hon’ble Chairman, Sports Development Board, and all the members for this honour.

India Emerges as Ukraine’s Top Diesel Supplier in July

By
Jeewan Dahal
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India has overtaken other countries to become the largest supplier of diesel fuel to Ukraine in July 2025, according to data from Ukrainian oil analytics firm NaftoRynok. The figures, reported by Ukrainian and international outlets including Swarajya, Financial Express, Business Today, and Ukrainian News, show that India accounted for 15.5% of Ukraine’s total diesel imports during the month.

Shipments from India averaged around 2,700 tonnes per day, a significant increase compared to July 2024, when India’s share was just 1.9%. This surge positions India ahead of traditional suppliers such as Slovakia and Romania, who continue to play a role in fueling Ukraine but fell behind in overall share.

The rise in Indian diesel exports to Ukraine comes against the backdrop of growing global scrutiny over New Delhi’s purchases of discounted Russian crude. Reports indicate that much of the diesel exported to Ukraine is refined in India from Russian-origin oil, underscoring the complex energy trade routes created by Western sanctions on Moscow.

The development has also coincided with heightened U.S. pressure on India. Earlier this month, the U.S. administration imposed punitive tariffs on Indian goods over its continued imports of Russian oil. Ironically, as Business Today highlighted, Ukraine—at war with Russia—has become increasingly reliant on diesel supplies originating from India.

While Kyiv has not publicly commented on the matter, analysts suggest that India’s growing role reflects both its expanding refining capacity and the shifting dynamics of global energy flows in the wake of sanctions.

79th Birth Anniversary of Harbhajan Baba, the ‘Saint of Nathula’

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Today, August 30, marks the 79th birth anniversary of Baba Harbhajan Singh, fondly remembered as the Saint of Nathula. Born in 1946, Baba Harbhajan Singh served with the Indian Army and tragically passed away in 1968 at just 22 years of age while on duty in East Sikkim. Yet, his spirit is believed to continue guarding the Nathula border between India and China.

Revered by soldiers, his presence is deeply felt at the frontier. Soldiers report receiving warnings of danger in advance, while his personal belongings—including his bed, shoes, and uniform—are still preserved at the Baba Mandir in East Sikkim. His room is cleaned daily, and signs often appear as though he has returned from patrol.

Remarkably, Baba continues to draw a Major’s salary and is even granted two months of annual leave. Each September, his belongings are sent to his hometown with a reserved train berth kept empty in his honor. Even during this period, the Army remains on high alert.

Both the Indian and Chinese armies respect him, with the Chinese side setting aside a chair for him during flag meetings.

Baba Harbhajan Singh’s story proves that some soldiers never die—their spirit lives on forever at the nation’s borders.

Gangtok Among Northeast Cities That Shine in Women’s Safety Rankings

By
Roshni Sharma
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The NARI 2025 (National Annual Report & Index on Women’s Safety) has ranked four northeastern capitals—Kohima, Aizawl, Gangtok, and Itanagar—among India’s safest cities for women, underscoring the region’s strong community-driven approach to security.

The survey, spanning 31 cities and over 12,000 women respondents, found that 60% of women feel generally safe, while 40% still report insecurity in public spaces.

Kohima topped the index due to gender-balanced social norms, neighborhood watch groups, and proactive community policing.

Aizawl earned praise for its close-knit social networks and police visibility at night.

Gangtok stood out for gender-sensitive governance and rules like mandatory bar shutdowns at 11 pm.

Itanagar scored high for women’s collectives, awareness drives, and inclusive governance.

Beyond the Northeast, Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar emerged as national leaders, while Delhi, Kolkata, Patna, Jaipur, Srinagar, Ranchi, and Faridabad fell into the underperforming bracket due to weak institutional backing and patriarchal barriers.

Though 91% of women feel secure at workplaces, awareness of workplace harassment policies remains low, with nearly half unaware of the POSH framework. Safety concerns persist in public transport and after-dark spaces, where women’s confidence sharply declines.

Experts say the NARI 2025 Index offers a critical roadmap for governments and urban planners to build people-centric, gender-sensitive cities that allow women to live and move freely without fear.

Minister Ven Sonam Lama Meets Union Home Minister Amit Shah

By
Jeewan Dahal
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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

By
Jeewan Dahal
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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

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

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

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

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

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

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.

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