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Leopard Successfully Captured in Soreng, To Be Relocated to Safe Habitat

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Leopard captured in Soreng
Leopard captured in Soreng

An adult male common leopard was successfully captured today at Nesur Gaon, Soreng Busty, by a dedicated team from the Soreng Wildlife Range.

The leopard had been frequently sighted in nearby villages over the past few weeks, with multiple reports of livestock loss and sightings near human settlements. Wildlife officials had been closely monitoring its movements through camera traps.

Following the capture, officials confirmed that the leopard is in good health. It is now being safely translocated to a suitable habitat away from human habitation.

Sikkim Launches ‘Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan’ to Drive Tribal Development

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"Dharti Aaba janjatiya Gram utkarsh Abhiyan"

The Government of Sikkim officially launched the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan today — an ambitious programme aimed at accelerating the socio-economic development of tribal communities in the state. The launch took place during the Golden Jubilee High-Altitude International Marathon medal felicitation ceremony at Ridge Park, Gangtok.

The initiative was inaugurated by Minister for Social Welfare, Women, Child, Senior Citizen & Divyangjan Welfare, and Printing & Stationery Departments, Mr Samdup Lepcha. It will be implemented under the Tribal Affairs Division of the Social Welfare Department, in alignment with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA), Government of India.

The Dharti Aaba Abhiyan builds upon the achievements of the PM-JANMAN scheme and is designed to close critical developmental gaps in tribal villages. By bringing together efforts from multiple central ministries and targeted interventions, the programme aims to provide safe housing, drinking water, sanitation, healthcare, education, nutrition, electricity, road and telecom connectivity. It also promotes sustainable livelihoods, entrepreneurship, and skill development for tribal youth.

The launch of this initiative marks an important milestone in Sikkim’s mission to foster inclusive growth and improve the quality of life in tribal areas.

The event was attended by MLA Delay Namgyal Barfungpa, MLA Tenzing Norbu Lamtha, Secretary of Social Welfare Department Sarika Pradhan, Secretary of Sports & Youth Affairs Department Yangchen D Tamang, along with senior officials.

Sikkim Hosts Golden Jubilee High-Altitude International Marathon

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Sikkim's Golden Jubilee Marathon

Sikkim successfully hosted the Golden Jubilee High-Altitude International Marathon 2025 on Sunday to mark 50 years of Statehood. The event was organised by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs in coordination with the Social Welfare and Commerce & Industries Departments, positioning the state on the global sports tourism map.

The full marathon covered a 42 km course, starting from Tsomgo Lake at an altitude of 3,753 metres and concluding at Ridge Park, Gangtok. Known for its challenging terrain and stunning Himalayan landscape, the marathon attracted participants from across India and abroad.

Out of 520 registered runners, 348 took part in the marathon, including 265 men and 83 women. Twenty-five international athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, and Nepal registered for the event, with six completing the demanding course.

The event was flagged off at Tsomgo Lake in the presence of Brigadier Amrit Sharma, panchayat members, and officials from the organising departments. The prize distribution at Ridge Park was attended by Minister for Social Welfare, Women & Child Development, Samdup Lepcha, along with MLAs Delay Namgyal Barfungpa and Tenzing Norbu Lamtha.

In the men’s category, Kenya’s Juligs M Wahome secured first place, followed by Ganga Hang Subba of Sikkim in second, and Firomsa Ararsa of Ethiopia in third. The women’s category was won by Tamsie Singh of Uttar Pradesh, with Sikkim’s Chandrakala Sharma and Ethiopia’s Aberu Gemechu taking second and third respectively.

Officials confirmed that the Golden Jubilee Marathon is expected to become an annual event to further promote high-altitude sports and adventure tourism in Sikkim.


Sikkim University Student Dies After Fall at Hidden Falls in Sikkim’s Yangyang

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Student's Life Lost in Fall at Hidden Falls, Sikkim"

An incident occurred on Sunday as a student from the Limboo Department of Sikkim University, originally from Timburbong in Soreng District of Sikkim, tragically drowned at Hidden Falls near Majuwa village in Yangang.

Initial findings indicate that the student may have accidentally slipped into a steep gorge while attempting to take a photo near the scenic but hazardous spot. The area is known for its slippery rocks and unpredictable water flow, particularly dangerous during the monsoon.

Rescue teams, including local police and emergency personnel, immediately launched an operation to recover the body, believed to be trapped in a deep section of the gorge. However, rescue efforts are being hampered by the challenging landscape and strong water currents.

Local police have confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the fatal fall.

Youth Killed in Alleged Retaliation After Assaulting Former Partner in Sikkim

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Alleged Retaliation Death in Sikkim

A 28-year-old man was killed late Saturday night in Lower Mangzing, near Yangang, in what police are investigating as a retaliatory attack following a reported assault on a woman.

According to official reports, the deceased—who had been in a long-term relationship with a local woman—allegedly forcefully entered her residence at around 10:30 PM, armed with a khukuri (traditional knife), and inflicted multiple injuries. Her cries for help reportedly alerted her father, aged 60, and a nearby juvenile, aged 15.

Around 11:00 PM, the man was confronted outside the house and allegedly attacked with an iron rod and a partially charred wooden log, resulting in his death on the spot. Two residents discovered the body soon after and alerted the authorities.

Yangang Police have registered a formal case under Sections 103 and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. An inquest was carried out at the scene by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate in the presence of legal guardians and independent witnesses. The deceased’s body was sent for post-mortem and later handed over to the family.

The injured woman was taken to Yangang Primary Health Centre and is reportedly stable. Both the father and the juvenile involved in the confrontation have been taken into custody.

After 5-Year Hiatus, First Kailash‑ Mansarovar Pilgrims Arrive in Gangtok

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"Gangtok Welcomes First Kailash-Mansarovar Batch"

After a five-year break, the first batch of pilgrims for the Kailash‑Mansarovar Yatra via the Nathu La route reached Gangtok, Sikkim, today, ahead of the official launch on June 20. The Sikkim government has made extensive preparations to ensure a smooth, safe, and spiritually fulfilling experience for the devotees.

According to officials, the inaugural group—comprising 35 pilgrims and accompanying government representatives—landed in Gangtok this morning. They are scheduled to spend the next four days at higher elevations—15th Mile and Sherathang—for vital acclimatisation. During this period, senior defence and state officials will brief the yatris on the journey ahead.

On June 20, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang is set to flag off the Yatra from the historic Nathu La Pass, which sits at approximately 14,140 feet above sea level. Authorities have confirmed that medical teams, liaison officers, security personnel, and communication facilities are in place along the route to ensure pilgrims’ well-being.

The Yatra is resuming after being suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and regional tensions. This year, 10 batches, each comprising 50 pilgrims, are expected to travel through the scenic and more accessible Nathu La route, which is considered safer and easier compared to the Lipulekh Pass route in Uttarakhand.

Pilgrims will travel via Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok, stay there for a day, and then proceed to mid-altitude camps for acclimatisation before crossing into Tibet on June 20. The Yatra typically spans 11–12 days per batch and is regarded as a sacred journey connecting devotees with the spiritual and natural beauty of the Himalayas.

The last time the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via the Nathu La route in Sikkim was conducted was in 2019.

The Yatra was suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising India-China border tensions, particularly after the Galwan Valley clash. Since then, both the Nathu La (Sikkim) and Lipulekh (Uttarakhand) routes remained closed for the pilgrimage.

Helicopter Crash Near Kedarnath Claims Seven Lives, Including Toddler

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"Helicopter Accident Near Kedarnath, Seven Die"

A helicopter crash in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district claimed the lives of all seven people on board early Sunday morning. The helicopter, ferrying Hindu pilgrims from the holy shrine of Shri Kedarnath Dham to Guptkashi, crashed shortly after takeoff, according to officials from the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA).

The chopper took off around 5:20 AM IST and was on a brief 10-minute journey when it went down, reportedly due to poor weather conditions. A massive fire followed the crash, severely burning the bodies and complicating identification efforts. Among the deceased was a two-year-old girl, making the incident all the more heartbreaking.

State Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami confirmed the incident in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), expressing grief over the loss and stating that a full investigation had been ordered. He added that the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), along with local authorities and emergency teams, was swiftly deployed to the crash site to carry out relief and recovery operations.

Local villagers collecting fodder nearby were the first to spot the wreckage and promptly alerted the nearby officials. Preliminary assessments suggest that poor visibility and inclement weather may have led to the crash, though the final cause will be determined following a thorough investigation by aviation experts.

Five pilgrims, the pilot and an employee of the Badrinath-Kedarnath temple committee were among those killed.

All passengers on board were Indian nationals from the states of Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. The incident has cast a pall over the ongoing pilgrimage season, with government urging caution and strict adherence to weather advisories for all aerial operations in the hilly terrain of Uttarakhand.

Woman Files Police Complaint After Losing Instagram Followers, Blames Husband

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"Woman Blames Husband for Lost Followers"

In an unusual case from Noida, Uttar Pradesh, social media and domestic life collided when a woman filed a police complaint against her husband—alleging that household chores disrupted her Instagram content creation, leading to a drop in her follower count.

The woman, identified as Nisha, approached the Women’s Police Station in Hapur after leaving her marital home. According to a report by News18, she accused her husband, Vijendra, of keeping her too busy with housework to focus on her Instagram Reels. “I used to post two Reels every day,” she reportedly told police. “But because of him, I was busy washing utensils and cleaning the house. I lost two followers.”

The trouble began when Vijendra advised Nisha to spend less time on social media and more on domestic responsibilities. Nisha initially agreed, but after seeing her follower count drop, she felt the impact on her growing online identity. Frustrated, she packed her bags and returned to her parents’ home.

The case quickly became a two-way legal matter. Vijendra also filed a counter-complaint, stating that Nisha’s obsession with Instagram was affecting household harmony and that she had started neglecting basic responsibilities. The strain of the conflict took a further toll—Vijendra reportedly lost his job amid the domestic discord and is now actively searching for new employment.

The dispute highlights how digital ambitions can increasingly influence real-life relationships, especially among younger couples. While the case raised eyebrows on social media, police say they are treating the matter with seriousness and are working toward counselling both parties.

South Africa Ends 27-Year Wait for ICC Glory with WTC 2025 Final Triumph over Australia

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"South Africa Wins WTC 2025"

South Africa finally shattered their long-standing ICC trophy drought, claiming their first major title in 27 years with a memorable five-wicket win over Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s on Saturday. This historic victory marks only the second ICC title in the Proteas’ cricketing history, the first since their Champions Trophy triumph in 1998.

Chasing a challenging target of 282 in the fourth innings, South Africa showcased grit, resilience, and nerves of steel. Aiden Markram emerged as the hero with a brilliant 136, anchoring the innings with a calm and calculated approach. Captain Temba Bavuma, battling a hamstring injury, showed immense courage and played a gritty knock of 66, contributing to a 147-run stand for the third wicket that shifted the momentum South Africa’s way.

Beginning Day 4 at 213/2, needing 69 runs to win, South Africa suffered an early blow when Pat Cummins dismissed Bavuma. Tristan Stubbs departed soon after, but Markram held firm, guiding his team over the line to seal the record chase at the iconic venue.

The final, which began on June 11, saw South Africa winning the toss and opting to bowl. Kagiso Rabada led the charge with a fiery spell, reducing the defending champions to 67/4. Steve Smith and debutant Beau Webster added valuable runs, but Rabada returned to wrap up the tail, finishing with 5/58 as Australia folded for 212.

Pat Cummins responded with a five-wicket haul of his own, ripping through South Africa’s top order as the Proteas were skittled for 138, giving Australia a 74-run first-innings lead.

Australia’s second innings didn’t fare much better. Rabada and Lungi Ngidi struck repeatedly to leave the Aussies reeling at 132/8. A resilient 59-run last-wicket partnership between Mitchell Starc (58*) and Josh Hazlewood pushed Australia to 191, setting a target of 282.

Rabada was instrumental once again with match figures of 9/98, while Ngidi chipped in with three key wickets.

Despite early nerves, South Africa’s second innings was defined by discipline and grit. Markram’s defining ton and Bavuma’s brave leadership ensured a remarkable triumph, finally putting to rest decades of near-misses and heartbreaks in ICC tournaments.

BJP Gangtok Hosts Health, E-Shram Camp and Plantation Drive

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"Gangtok BJP's Community Drive"

As part of the 11th anniversary celebration of the Modi government, the BJP Gangtok District team organized an Ayushman Bharat and E-Shram registration camp at the Helipad area under the Upper Burtuk Constituency on Saturday. The initiative was led by State BJP President D.R. Thapa, accompanied by party executives, Mandal presidents, and the IT support team.

The event focused on delivering the benefits of key central government schemes to eligible citizens, particularly the marginalized and elderly populations. Beneficiaries received Ayushman Bharat Health Cards, enabling access to free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakhs annually. Many individuals from the unorganized workforce were also enrolled under the E-Shram scheme, which offers financial protection and insurance coverage.

The outreach programme underscored the BJP Gangtok District team’s ongoing commitment to grassroots welfare, transparency, and effective implementation of the Modi government’s flagship initiatives.

The team also conducted a plantation drive at Bakthang to promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices. This green initiative was actively supported by State Vice President Shri Dinesh Chandra Nepal, Media Incharge Shri Niren Bhandari, Coordinator Sangey Pulger, District President Shri Pempo Dorjee Lepcha, Mandal Presidents, and dedicated Karyakartas.

DR Thapa, President of BJP Sikkim, emphasized that such activities reflect the party’s dual commitment to both social welfare and environmental conservation.