Friday, October 16, 2026
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Former Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli Arrested in Gen Z Protest Case

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has been arrested by Nepal Police in connection with the 2025 “Gen Z” protest case, marking a major political development in Nepal. The arrest came shortly after former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak was taken into custody from Bhaktapur early Saturday morning.

Both leaders were named in the investigation report of the Karki Commission, headed by Gauri Bahadur Karki, which probed the deadly protests of September 8 and 9. The commission had recommended criminal investigations against them, along with other members of the Central Security Committee, citing accountability lapses during the violent crackdown.

The government moved swiftly following a Cabinet meeting led by Balen Shah, deciding to implement the commission’s recommendations. Soon after, Home Minister Sudan Gurung held high-level discussions with security officials, paving the way for immediate enforcement action.

In his statement, Gurung said, “Promise is a promise. No one is above the law. This is not revenge, but the beginning of justice,” expressing confidence that the country is entering a new phase of accountability and reform.

Oli, who was serving as Prime Minister during the protests, faces allegations of failing to prevent the escalation of violence that led to multiple fatalities after police opened fire on demonstrators in New Baneshwor.

Authorities indicate that further arrests of former officials may follow as the investigation continues to unfold.

Why Sikkim’s Opposition Is Missing the Municipal Battle

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Yesterday, the Citizen Action Party announced that it will not contest the municipal elections, leaving everything to independent candidates. However, in a democracy, parties must understand that there is no such thing as being truly “independent,” and elections without contest do not look meaningful or interesting.

If CAP wants to earn the tag of a strong opposition, it must come to the ground, fight, and even win a small number of seats in Local Bodies. The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) has already announced candidates in all urban bodies and completed nominations and started campaigning too. Even a former Gangtok mayor Neel Chettri yesterday said he does not support uncontested elections and wants competition to make them meaningful urges people to come in ground.

The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), which ruled Sikkim for over 25 years, has not fielded candidates yet, nor has the Indian National Congress. The Bharatiya Janata Party appears somewhat serious to contest in all Local Bodies but has yet to complete nominations.

Win or lose, contesting elections increases the value of opposition in a democracy. Combined with low voter turnout, this situation paints a grim picture for the future of local democracy.

Perhaps the importance of municipal politics is being overlooked instead of calling party based or unconstitutional. Local governments directly impact daily life—roads, recreation, water supply, and emergency services. Even small elections matter. While independents give space to common citizens, political parties should promote young leaders and encourage them to contest.

Municipal elections can be seen as a semifinal for the 2029 state elections. Sikkim, as a democracy, functions through two tiers— state, and local self-government. If opposition parties aspire to govern the state, they must also participate in grassroots democracy if not they should forget about 2029 General Elections. Even in West Bengal with strong ruling, opposition party also stand and contest municipality elections.

Today in press conference SDF said that they has even boycotted the elections, calling them unconstitutional after 25 year of Ruling. However, local governance has constitutional status under the 74th Amendment Act of 1992.

Perhaps opposition lack candidates, or perhaps they lack confidence. Either way, avoiding elections weakens democracy. Elections come once every five years, and true citizenship is exercised only when people participate and contest.

CM Prem Singh Tamang Joins Ram Navami Kalash Yatra at Thakurbari Mandir

By
the sikkim today
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0

A grand Kalash Yatra and evening aarti were organised at Thakurbari Mandir on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami, drawing a large number of devotees and reflecting deep religious fervour across the capital.

The event, hosted by the Ram Navami Maha Puran Celebration Committee, witnessed vibrant participation as devotees gathered in large numbers to take part in the sacred procession and rituals.

The occasion was graced by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, who actively participated in the Kalash Yatra and offered prayers at the temple. His presence added significance to the celebration, inspiring devotees and highlighting the importance of preserving cultural and religious traditions.

The Kalash Yatra, accompanied by devotional songs and traditional chants, moved through key areas of Gangtok, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere. Devotees carrying sacred pots (kalash) marched in unison, symbolising purity and devotion.

The Chief Minister also joined Om Prakash Mathur during the Shobha Yatra at MG Marg, further enhancing the significance of the celebration.

Later in the evening, a grand aarti was performed at Thakurbari Mandir, where devotees and dignitaries came together in prayer, marking a serene and spiritually enriching conclusion to the day’s festivities.

Over 500 Glaciers Lost in Bhutan in 50 Years, Warning Signs for Sikkim and Arunachal

By
Roshni Sharma
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A new scientific study has revealed that Bhutan loss 500 glaciers over the last five decades, highlighting the accelerating impact of climate change on the eastern Himalayas. The findings have also triggered serious concerns for neighbouring Indian regions such as Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, which share similar Himalayan geography and climatic conditions.

The study, published in the journal Remote Sensing, analysed glacier changes in the Bhutanese Himalaya between 1976 and 2024 using satellite imagery and historical glacier inventories. Researchers found that 524 glaciers completely disappeared during this period. Alarmingly, glacier loss intensified after 1998, with over 83 per cent of the extinctions occurring between 1998 and 2024. During this later phase, nearly 16 glaciers vanished every year, compared to about four annually in the earlier decades.

Scientists noted that smaller glaciers, especially those under five square kilometres, were the most vulnerable to rising temperatures and changing snowfall patterns. Glacier loss was also uneven, with southern Bhutan—bordering India—recording higher extinction rates than the northern region.

Experts warned that similar glacier retreat may already be underway in India’s eastern Himalayan states. A separate 2025 study had earlier reported the disappearance of 110 glaciers in Arunachal Pradesh over 32 years, reinforcing fears of widespread ice loss across the region.

Rapid glacier retreat poses serious risks to water security, river flow stability, and natural hazards this is happening slowing after bhutan loss 500 glaciers .

Himalayan glaciers play a vital role in sustaining rivers during dry seasons. The study also pointed to the growing influence of glacial lakes, which accelerate ice melting and increase the risk of floods, further threatening downstream communities in Bhutan and India.

Experts further stress the urgent need for coordinated climate monitoring, early warning systems, and sustainable environmental policies across Himalayan regions to mitigate long-term impacts and safeguard fragile mountain ecosystems and livelihoods in Mountain.

CAP Rejects Party-Based Municipal Polls, Chooses to Back Independents

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

The opposition Citizen Action Party (CAP) has announced that it will stay away from contesting the elections under a party banner.

Speaking to the media, party spokesperson Albert Gurung said the decision comes in strong opposition to the party-based election system introduced by the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM).

Instead of nominating its own candidates, CAP will lend support to independent contenders across municipal wards, aiming to promote grassroots leadership beyond political affiliations.

Gurung asserted that local body elections should remain free from party influence, arguing that politicizing municipal governance could dilute the essence of community representation.

The announcement marks of the Municipality Election 2026, as CAP positions itself in support of independent voices while opposing the ruling party’s electoral approach.

Rachna Books’ In Search of Mount Kailash Wins Prestigious Kekoo Naoroji Book Award

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

A major literary achievement has brought pride to the Himalayan publishing community as In Search of Mount Kailash: Travels in the Sacred Himalaya by Alex McKay has won the prestigious Kekoo Naoroji Book Award for Mountain Literature.

The award was presented during the Himalayan Adventure Festival held in Mumbai on March 21–22, recognizing excellence in contemporary Himalayan writing. Instituted by the Himalayan Club in association with the Naoroji family and the Godrej Group, the award honours outstanding literary contributions centered on the Himalayas.

Named after Kekoo Naoroji, a distinguished figure who served the Himalayan Club as both President and Secretary, the award is adjudicated by an expert jury. Previous recipients include noted authors such as Stephen Alter, Deborah Baker, Bernadette McDonald, Nandini Purandare, and Deepa Balsavar.

Published in the Indian subcontinent by Rachna Books and Publications in collaboration with Sun Rider Press, the award-winning book is a deeply personal travelogue that traces McKay’s lifelong engagement with the Himalayas. It captures his early journeys along the famed “Hippie Trail,” explorations of Mount Kailash, and experiences across the Himalayan region, including Sikkim.

Blending travel writing, historical insight, and rich cultural encounters, the book has been praised by the jury as “a timeless exploration of faith, landscape, and the human spirit,” highlighting its cultural sensitivity and depth of engagement with the region.

Alex McKay is widely regarded as one of the foremost scholars of Tibetan and Himalayan history. His earlier work, The Mandala Kingdom: A Political History of Sikkim (2021), remains a significant contribution to the academic understanding of Sikkim’s past.

This recognition further strengthens the reputation of Rachna Books and Publications as a leading independent publisher promoting Himalayan narratives and voices on the global stage.

The book is now available through Rachna Books’ official website and select independent bookstores across India, while international readers can access it via Sun Rider Press.

North Tech Symposium 2026 Announced, Curtain Raiser Held in New Delhi

By
Jeewan Dahal
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The Curtain Raiser for the North Tech Symposium 2026 was held on March 25 at the Manekshaw Centre, formally announcing the upcoming symposium scheduled to take place in Prayagraj from May 4 to 6, 2026.

The event was organised in coordination with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers and brought together key stakeholders from the Indian Army, industry, start-ups, academia, Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), paramilitary forces, and the Ministry of Defence.

The Curtain Raiser was attended by senior officials including Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Command; Pratik Sharma, GOC-in-C Northern Command; and Neeraj Gupta, along with other distinguished participants.

The North Tech Symposium 2026 is being jointly organised by the Northern and Central Commands of the Indian Army. The initiative aims to integrate operational perspectives from both commands, ensuring that technological development aligns closely with field requirements.

Centred around the theme “Raksha Triveni Sangam – Where Technology, Industry and Soldiering Converge,” the symposium seeks to create a collaborative platform for the Armed Forces, industry leaders, innovators, and academia to address operational challenges through technology-driven solutions.

As part of the symposium, industry partners will showcase advanced technologies based on the Compendium of Problem Definition Statements released during the Curtain Raiser, along with earlier Indian Army publications highlighting key technological challenges.

Two major thematic seminars—SANGAM (Strategic Autonomy in Next Generation Advancement and Manufacturing) and DHRUVA (Defence Industry Harnessing through Resilient UPEIDA Verticals and Alliances)—will be held on May 5 and 6. These sessions will bring together experts from defence, industry, and academia to discuss capability development, emerging technologies, and future research trends.

The symposium is expected to play a crucial role in bridging the gap between the operational requirements of the Armed Forces and indigenous technological capabilities, contributing significantly to India’s goal of achieving defence self-reliance.

The strong participation at the Curtain Raiser reflects growing interest and commitment from industry players, start-ups, and academic institutions towards strengthening India’s defence ecosystem.

Deekila Sherpa to Represent Sikkim at Femina Miss India 2026

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

Sikkim’s Passang Deeki Sherpa, popularly known as Deekila Sherpa, has been selected to represent the state at the prestigious Femina Miss India 2026.

The national-level pageant is scheduled to be held in Bhubaneswar on April 18, 2026, where contestants from across the country will compete for the coveted title. The event will bring together participants representing different states and union territories, showcasing talent, confidence, and cultural diversity.

Deekila Sherpa Femina Miss India 2026 journey reflects confidence, talent, and strong cultural identity as she prepares to compete at the national level.

Deekila Sherpa’s selection marks a significant achievement for Sikkim, reflecting the growing presence of the state on national platforms of fashion and beauty. Known for her confidence, elegance, and strong cultural identity, she is set to represent the spirit and heritage of Sikkim on a wider stage.

The Femina Miss India pageant is regarded as one of the most prestigious beauty competitions in India, offering young women an opportunity to showcase not only their appearance but also their intelligence, personality, and social awareness. Over the years, it has played a key role in shaping successful careers in the fashion and entertainment industry.

Deekila’s journey is expected to inspire many young aspirants, especially from the Northeast, to pursue opportunities in modeling and pageantry. Her participation highlights the aspirations and potential of youth from the region, encouraging greater representation at national levels.

As Sikkim prepares to cheer for its representative, expectations are high that Deekila Sherpa will make a strong impression at the competition. Her selection is not only a personal milestone but also a moment of pride for the entire state.

As Deekila Sherpa Femina Miss India 2026 contestant, she carries the hopes of Sikkim and aims to make a strong impact on the national stage and making state proud again.

Drug Disposal Conducted at Namchi District Hospital

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

The District Level Drug Disposal Committee carried out the disposal of seized controlled and contraband substances at District Hospital Namchi on Wednesday.

The disposal process was conducted with due permission from the District & Sessions Court, Namchi, and in strict adherence to prescribed legal, environmental, and safety guidelines. Officials confirmed that the destroyed substances were linked to 23 cases registered under the Sikkim Anti-Drugs Act (SADA), with all trial proceedings having been completed.

According to Drug Disposal Namchi Sikkim team, the seized narcotics and controlled substances were collected during various enforcement operations conducted between 2018 and 2025. The disposal was carried out using an incinerator facility arranged at the hospital premises, ensuring that all materials were destroyed in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.

The items destroyed included 76,794 Spasmo-Proxyvon capsules, 1,208 Nitrosun-10 tablets, 1,040 bottles of cough syrup, and 240 grams of brown sugar. Authorities highlighted that such large-scale disposal reflects ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to tackle drug abuse and prevent the recirculation of seized substances.

Senior officials from the district administration, police, and health department were present during the process to oversee transparency and accountability. Among those present were Senior Superintendent of Police Ms. Sonam Doma Bhutia, SDM Namchi Mr. Wangyal Sherpa, Chief Medical Officer Ms. Junita Yonzon, Additional Superintendent of Police Mr. Mani Kumar Tamang, Court Inspector (Prosecution Branch) Ms. Anupa Gurung, and Drugs Inspector Mr. Nagendra Kumar. Two independent witnesses were also present as part of the legal procedure.

Officials reiterated that the systematic disposal of seized narcotics is a crucial component of drug law enforcement, ensuring that such substances are permanently removed from circulation. The administration further reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug abuse and maintaining law and order in the district.

Women Leadership Shines at Sikkim’s Landmark International Film Festival

By
Roshni Sharma
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0

The sikkim state successfully hosted its first-ever Sikkim International Film Festival from March 19 to 22, marking a significant step in promoting cinema, culture, and tourism. The four-day festival brought together filmmakers, artists, and creative voices from across India and beyond, positioning Sikkim as an emerging hub for film production and cultural exchange.

The successful of the festival reflects the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, whose consistent support and forward-looking approach played a crucial role in turning the idea into reality. His vision to develop Sikkim as a center for Nepali and regional cinema is expected to generate new opportunities in the creative economy, boost tourism, and create employment for local youth.

Equally noteworthy was the leadership of Annapurna Allay, Secretary of the Information and Public Relations Department. Demonstrating the true spirit of Nari Shakti, she ensured smooth planning, coordination, and execution of the festival. Her role stands as an example of women’s leadership in governance and their growing influence in shaping major state initiatives.

The festival began with a grand inaugural ceremony at Manan Kendra, attended by Governor Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, his spouse Krishna Kumari Rai, along with MLAs, senior officials, and distinguished guests. The ceremony featured vibrant cultural performances that showcased Sikkim’s rich traditions and diversity, setting the tone for the festival.

A major highlight was the red carpet event that brought glamour and national attention to the state. Renowned filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, along with several producers, artists, influencers, and filmmakers, attended the festival, adding credibility and visibility to the event on a larger scale.

A total of 29 films were screened during the festival, including regional, national, and international entries. Out of these, 10 screenings were held at Manan Kendra and 19 at INOX, West Point Mall, providing audiences with a diverse cinematic experience. A special attraction was the screening of a historic documentary on Sikkim by legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray, which connected the state’s cultural past with its cinematic present.

Beyond film screenings, the festival also focused on industry development and knowledge sharing. Workshops and panel discussions held at Chintan Bhawan explored various aspects of filmmaking, storytelling, and production. These sessions provided valuable insights and learning opportunities for aspiring filmmakers and industry stakeholders.

Additionally, B2B meetings and networking sessions enabled filmmakers, producers, and investors to connect and explore future collaborations. Such initiatives are seen as important steps toward building a sustainable film ecosystem in Sikkim and encouraging investment in the sector.

The festival also highlighted Sikkim’s immense potential as a film tourism destination. With its scenic landscapes, unique culture, and peaceful environment, the state offers an ideal backdrop for film shoots. Events like SIFF are expected to attract filmmakers and tourists alike, contributing to economic growth and generating employment opportunities for local communities.

The festival concluded on March 22 with a closing ceremony and certificate distribution attended by key dignitaries. In her address, Annapurna Allay expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang for his unwavering support and reiterated the government’s commitment to developing Sikkim into a major hub for Nepali cinema. She also revealed that proposals have been submitted to position the state as a film sponsorship and production center in India.

The first edition of the Sikkim International Film Festival stands as more than just a cultural event—it is a defining milestone in the state’s journey. It reflects the power of visionary governance, collaboration, and women-led leadership in Department. With this achievement, Sikkim has set a strong benchmark for the future, sending a powerful message that Nari Shakti is not just about empowerment, but about leadership, transformation, and shaping history.

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