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Press Club of Sikkim Announces 2024 Awards for Journalistic Excellence

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0
" Press Club of Sikkim"

The Press Club of Sikkim has announced the 2024 Kanchenjunga Kalam Purashkar to senior journalist Subash Rai, the copy editor of Summit Times newspaper. The award will be presented on the occasion of the 22nd foundation day of the Press Club of Sikkim.

The foundation day will also honor hardworking young journalists with the Lagansheel Yuva Patrakar Purashkar. This year, the Press Club has decided to felicitate two young journalists with this award. Journalist Nitesh R. Pradhan, a freelancer working with international and national media houses, will be one of the recipients. Suben Pradhan from the digital news platform Sikkim Chronicle will also receive the Lagansheel Yuva Patrakar Purashkar.

Additionally, senior journalist Kamal Mukhia, editor of the Nepali language newspaper Janmanch, will be felicitated on the foundation day.

Minister Roads and Bridges Inspection of Disaster-Affected Areas in Mangan District

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0
" Minister Roads and Bridges Inspection"

Mangan, 3 July : The Minister of Roads and Bridges, Mr N.B. Dahal, conducted an inspection of the disaster-affected areas from Phidang to Lingdong in the Mangan district. These areas have recently been devastated by landslides triggered by a cloudburst.

The programme also included the presence of SDM Dzongu, Mr Arun Chettri, SE Roads and Bridges (Gangtok), SE Roads and Bridges (Mangan)Pintso Pulger, Mr Karma G. Lachenpa,RO Mr Wangyal Sherpa and officials of the concerned departments of the district.

During his visit, the Minister assured the people of full support and aid in these challenging times. He enquired with the SDM of Dzongu about the status of compensation for the damaged infrastructure. The SDM confirmed that ex gratia payments have already been provided to those affected. Additionally, the SDM mentioned that the office has commenced inspections to assess land damage caused by the disaster.

The Minister also spoke with Mr Madhukar, Junior Engineer of 107 RCC GREF, and Mr Anirudh Kumar, Assistant Engineer, regarding the restoration of the road in Lingdong. They reported that they are working expeditiously and assured that the road would be restored within a few days.

Sikkim Introduces QR Code Payments in Taxis to Solve Fare Disputes

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0
"QR code payments in Taxis"

The Government of Sikkim’s Transport Department has launched a new initiative to address public complaints about taxi fare issues stemming from a lack of correct change. To resolve these problems, the department has mandated the implementation of QR code and UPI payment options for local taxis. Effective immediately, all taxi drivers must provide QR codes for platforms such as Google Pay, Paytm, and PhonePe, facilitating seamless UPI payments.

During a recent meeting with stakeholders and local taxi associations, it was decided that drivers could obtain QR codes directly from these payment platforms or by contacting their respective banks. The mandate requires that QR codes be displayed on both the front windshield and the rear seat by July 15, 2024. Additionally, an official copy of the taxi fare must be prominently displayed in the vehicle for passengers’ convenience.

This initiative aims to streamline the payment process, enhance passenger convenience, and reduce disputes over fare payments, which have often led to arguments and traffic jams. The Transport Department expects that the introduction of QR code payments will greatly improve the efficiency of taxi operations and passenger satisfaction.

Sikkim Vigilance Police Arrest Two SBS Bank Officials

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0
" State Bank of Sikkim"

The Sikkim Vigilance Police arrested two officials of the State Bank of Sikkim (SBS) on Friday. The officials face charges of criminal conspiracy, cheating, misappropriation, and forgery. Their residences and offices in Gangtok and Sang were also searched as part of the investigation.

The investigation revealed that the officials, along with a deceased lady customer who is the mother of an SBS official, allegedly cheated the Government of Sikkim. They dishonestly and fraudulently deposited six Demand Drafts (DDs) amounting to approximately Rs. 30 lakhs into their personal bank accounts. These DDs, issued by the State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, and SBS, were intended for the Accounts Officer of the Pension Department, Government of Sikkim, as refunds for overpayments of pensions to six deceased pensioners. Instead of depositing these DDs into the government account, the officials deposited them into their personal accounts and withdrew the funds within a day or two.

Following a complaint lodged by the Pension Department, the Sikkim Vigilance Police registered an FIR against unknown officials of the Pension Department, SBS, and other unidentified individuals.

During the investigation, it was discovered that one of the drafts was deposited in March 2024 into the personal account of a female customer who had passed away in January 2017. This deceased customer was the mother of one of the SBS officials involved in the fraud. The investigation team seized the death certificate of the deceased customer from the Vigilance Department’s sleuths. Notably, the deceased customer’s account was still active and operational.

Investigators also recovered incriminating documents, including bank passbooks, passports, and fixed deposits amounting to several lakhs of rupees. The extent of the defalcation may increase as the investigation progresses.

The Sikkim Vigilance Police continue their efforts to uncover the full scope of this fraudulent scheme and bring all responsible parties to justice.

One Crore Bribery Scandal Uncovered in State Bank of Sikkim

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0
" State Bank of Sikkim"

In a Major operation, the Vigilance Department of Gangtok has conducted extensive raids in Gangtok, Pakyong, Jorethang, and Sombaria, targeting senior officials of the State Bank of Sikkim (SBS).

The raids were initiated following credible information suggesting widespread corruption within the bank. Officials seized a substantial amount of incriminating documents detailing alleged bribery transactions amounting to over one crore rupees.

It is reported that several senior officers of SBS received bribes over the past 5 to 6 years by instructing customers to transfer large sums of money into their personal bank accounts. The seized documents also reveal evidence related to the acquisition of movable and immovable assets, as well as large cash transactions.

FIRs have been lodged against the accused officials under various sections of the law pertaining to corruption and fraudulent activities. The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to gather more evidence.

Former Sikkim Lok Sabha MP Pahalman Subba Passes Away

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0
"MP Pahalman Subba"

Former Sikkim Lok Sabha MP Pahalman Subba Passes Away

Pahalman Subba, a former Lok Sabha MP from Sikkim, passed away this morning. 

Chief Minister of Sikkim Mr Prem Singh Tamang expressed deep sadness over the demise of former Member of Parliament, Late Mr Pahalman Subba. 

In his message, the Chief Minister extended heartfelt condolences to Subba’s family, relatives, and friends during this difficult time. “I offer my prayers for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace,” he said.

PM Modi to Visit Sikkim for 50th Statehood Day Celebrations

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0
"PM Modi and CM Tamang "

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has confirmed his visit to Sikkim next year to commemorate the state’s 50th Statehood Day celebrations. The announcement was made following a meeting with Sikkim Chief Minister PS Tamang at the Parliament House in New Delhi. CM PS Tamang extended the invitation to PM Modi, emphasizing the cultural significance and developmental achievements of Sikkim. PM Modi’s upcoming visit underscores the government’s commitment to the region’s growth and integration into the national framework.

During the discussion, CM Tamang emphasized the critical need for funds amounting to Rs. 3673.25 crore for flood recovery and reconstruction efforts in the state. These funds are essential to address the aftermath of the devastating floods that struck Sikkim in October 2023. PM Modi assured CM Tamang of his support and committed to promptly addressing the funding requirements for the flood-affected areas.

During the meeting, they discussed several critical issues, including the demand for tribal status for 12 indigenous communities and the reservation of Limboo-Tamang seats in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly. They also deliberated on the upcoming visit of His Holiness the 17th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorji to Sikkim.

CM Tamang briefed PM Modi on Sikkim’s initiative to establish a multimodal corridor with integrated checkposts between Sikkim and eastern Nepal at Chewa Bhanjyang.

Furthermore, CM Tamang proposed the development of a Himalayan Railway Line between Bakrakote in West Bengal and Rorathang in Sikkim, citing historical precedence from 1917 to support the initiative.

PM Modi commended Sikkim’s efforts under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, aimed at environmental conservation, and assured CM Tamang of his participation in the initiative’s observance on July 7, 2024, in Sikkim.

Accepting the invitation for Sikkim’s 50th Statehood Day celebrations, PM Modi expressed his appreciation for the cultural richness and strategic significance of Sikkim. The meeting was attended by MPs Indra Hang Subba and DT Lepcha, emphasizing collaborative efforts towards Sikkim’s holistic development.

International Day Of Yoga Celebration of RARI Gangtok

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0
" International Day Of Yoga Celebration "

Regional Ayurveda Research Institute (RARI) in Gangtok, Sikkim, under the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, organized a vibrant program to celebrate the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY). The event emphasized this year’s theme, “Yoga for Self & Society,” and took place at the Shri Rama Chandra Mission (SRCM) Heartfulness Meditation Centre in Tadong, Gangtok.

The program commenced with an inaugural session that included the lighting of the lamp and a welcome address. Dr. Achintya Mitra, the Assistant Director In-charge of RARI, Gangtok, delivered an enlightening presentation on the significance of Yoga Day. Following this, Mrs. Kavita Telang, Preceptor at the SRCM HeartfulnessMeditation Centre, gave an insightful lecture on the spiritual aspects of yoga.

A highlight of the event was a 45-minute Common Yoga Protocol session led by Dr. Sreelakshmi R.S, Research Officer (Ay.), RARI, Gangtok. This session was attended by the staff of RARI, the Heartfulness Meditation Centre, and members of the general public. Additionally, Mrs. Kavita Telang conducted a 20-minute meditation session. The event concluded with remarks from Dr. Lijima C, Research Officer (Ay.), RARI, Gangtok. The program saw active participation from 60 to 70 attendees, who were also provided with light refreshments.

Subsequently, an awareness lecture on the “Importance of Yoga in Daily Life” was delivered to the OPD patients at RARI, Gangtok, by Dr.Sreelakshmi R.S. Furthermore, a Common Yoga Protocol session was organized by the High Court of Sikkim, in which Mr. Pritam Karmakar, pharmacist from the SCSP Project, and Mrs. Dilbahadur Tamangparticipated. The participants at the High Court were also given immunity booster kits by the RARI team, and Mr. Pritam Karmakardelivered an awareness lecture on the Importance of yoga and Ayurveda.

The observance of IDY 2024 extended to the Ayurveda Health Centres at Geyzing and Jorethang, which are extension centers of RARI, Gangtok. These centers conducted Common Yoga Protocol sessions and awareness lectures for their patients and staff, guided by Dr. Priyanka Yadav and Dr. Devasish Poddar, Senior Research Fellows (Ayurveda).

Overall, the celebration of the 10th International Day of Yoga by the Regional Ayurveda Research Institute in Gangtok was a resounding success, fostering a greater appreciation for yoga and its benefits for both individuals and society. The various activities and lectures provided valuable insights into the holistic practices of yoga and Ayurveda, reinforcing their significance in promoting health and well-being.

Fatal Bus Accident in Shimla Claims Four Lives, Injures Others

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0
" Fatal Bus Accident in Shimla"

Four people, including the driver and the conductor of a Himachal Pradesh Road and Transport Corporation (HRTC) died after the bus met with an accident in Shimla district on Friday.

The mishap took place in Kenchi area of Jubbal when the bus which was enroute to Kuddu-Diltari in Rohru area of the Shimla district fell off the mountain road into the gorge below.

“The accident took place at 6:45 am after the bus overturned on the road. In total there were 5 passengers plus the driver and conductor. Three injured have been admitted to a local hospital in Rohru.

Sikkim High Court introduces menstrual leave policy for its women employees

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0
"menstrual leave policy "

The Sikkim High Court has introduced a menstrual leave policy for women employees working in its Registry.

The notification released on May 27 clarified that the High Court medical officer’s recommendation would be necessary to avail of menstrual leave.

“Women employees in the High Court Registry may henceforth avail menstrual leave of 2-3 days in a month, provided they approach the Medical Officer attached to the High Court first and obtain the latter’s recommendation for such leave,” the notification stated.

The leave account of women employees shall not be debited on availing menstrual leave, it added.

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