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Suicide Cases Surge in Sikkim This February, Raising Serious Concerns

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"Suicide Cases Reported in Sikkim"

The alarming increase in suicide cases across Sikkim this month continues to raise concerns, with several incidents going unreported like one case in Namchi where teen girl and . While police records have documented multiple cases, sources indicate that there are even more tragic losses that have not made it to official reports. The situation reflects a deeper crisis that demands immediate attention from authorities and the community.

In Chungthang, a 21-year-old woman was found dead at her parental home, with police launching an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.

A suicide case in Tamatam, Gerethang, Gyalshing, a 13-year-old found deceased in a forested area. Police are investigating, ensuring all legal formalities are completed.

In Namchi’s Upper Mamring, a 38-year-old man was found dead at his residence. Early reports suggest financial struggles as a possible factor. No foul play has been detected, but a medico-legal autopsy is scheduled for further examination.

On February 13, Pakyong police received a report of a man in his early thirties who was found hanging in his residence in Upper Bering. After an inquest, the body was handed over to the family following an autopsy. While no foul play has been suspected, investigations are still ongoing.

A 17-year-old student in Damthang, Namchi, was found dead at his residence. He had been preparing for his board exams and had recently lost his father. No foul play is suspected, but police are conducting further inquiries.

Another suicide case in Namchi last week, involving a young girl, has not been officially reported by media, highlighting a disturbing trend where many such cases go undocumented.

In Gnathang- Machong Constituency , one incident of suicide occurred recently but has not been widely reported by authorities.

Two unnatural deaths were recorded in Pakyong district. One involved a man found dead near his home, with early reports suggesting suicide. Another body was discovered near the Rangpo River bank. Both cases remain under investigation, with no immediate signs of foul play.

Sikkim has been battling a high suicide rate for years, and the issue remains a serious concern. Many suicides go unreported due to social stigma, lack of awareness, and reluctance from families to disclose such cases. Unemployment, financial struggles, academic pressure, and mental health issues continue to be major contributing factors.

Authorities and community leaders are urging people to seek mental health support and encouraging families to be more open about addressing mental health concerns. The need for crisis intervention, awareness campaigns, and suicide prevention initiatives has never been greater.

With more cases continuing to surface, it is clear that Sikkim must take urgent action to tackle this growing crisis. 

The Bailey Bridge collapse at Sankalang is set to undergo repairs

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The Bailey Bridge at Sankalang collapsed on February 11, 2025, disrupting connectivity in the region. In response, the Sub Divisional Magistrate of Dzongu, Mangan District, has issued an order regarding public movement across the alternative Bamboo Suspension Bridge at Sankalang.

With the Bailey Bridge out of service, the Bamboo Suspension Bridge has become the only route for the general public and employees traveling between Dzongu and Mangan. However, authorities have found that the suspension bridge, which was previously unused during the Bailey Bridge’s operation, now requires urgent repairs and maintenance for public safety.

Following directives from the competent authorities, the Bamboo Suspension Bridge at Sankalang will remain closed for public use on February 16 (Sunday) and February 17, 2025. Maintenance work will be carried out during this period to ensure the safety and durability of the bridge.

The notice has been circulated to relevant officials, including the District Magistrate, Superintendent of Police, Information and Public Relations Department, local Panchayat Presidents, and Police Outpost In-charges of Sankalang and Phidang.

Authorities have urged residents and commuters to plan their travel accordingly while repair works are underway. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.

Sikkim Blue Duke Festival 2025 Celebrates Innovation, Culture, and Youth Empowerment

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The Sikkim Blue Duke Festival 2025 continued its second day at Saramsa Garden, Ranipool, today.

The festival, which began on February 14 and will conclude on February 16, is an initiative of the Office of Dr. Indra Hang Subba, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, and is supported by the Tourism Department, Government of Sikkim.

A major highlight of the festival is its focus on emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, drone tech, culinary arts, literature, and music, bringing together students, tech enthusiasts, and culture lovers for an immersive experience. It serves as a platform to explore new ideas, innovations, and interactive sessions, featuring exhibitions and expert-led talk shows across various fields to guide and inspire participants.

Drawing inspiration from the Blue Duke butterfly, the State Butterfly of Sikkim, the festival symbolises transformation, growth, and limitless potential, much like the aspirations of young minds.

Additionally, live music performances by renowned artists add to the festival’s vibrancy, creating a dynamic mix of learning, networking, and entertainment.

The festival aims to inspire the next generation to think beyond boundaries, dream big, and empower young minds and entrepreneurs. With its blend of cutting-edge discussions, cultural showcases, and engaging experiences, the Sikkim Blue Duke Festival 2025 stands as a testament to innovation, creativity, and youth empowerment.

Report from DIO Pakyong

CM’s Janta Bhet Karyakarm Preparations Underway with Focus on Logistics

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Pakyong, February 15 (IPR): A preliminary meeting for the upcoming Chief Minister’s Janta Bhet Karyakarm took place at the Rurban Complex in Pakyong today. The three-day event is scheduled to occur from February 23 to February 25, within the Rhenock Constituency.
During the gathering, Mr Bishnu Kumar Khatiwada, Advisor to the Chief Minister, emphasized the necessity of expediting the work process and encouraged collaboration among departments to ensure a successful event.
Mr Sangay Gyatso Bhutia, ADC Pakyong, underscored the importance of ensuring adequate washroom facilities and electricity supply at venues, highlighting the need to create a space to minimise overcrowding and prevent chaos.
Furthermore, he urged the department to remain updated with the operational aspects and schemes implemented by their office at the event.
Additionally, he urged department representatives to stay informed about the operational aspects and programs administered by their offices in relation to the event.
The meeting also addressed various topics, including venue arrangements, power supply, restroom facilities, crowd management, and parking logistics.
Present during the meeting were Mr Robin Pd Sewa, ADC (Development), Mr ML Pradhan, ASP Pakyong Head of Offices, along with officials from various departments.

Report from DIO Pakyong

Man Passes Away After Fall from Building in Tadong

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IRBJawans from Sikkim were killed

A 54-year-old man succumbed to injuries at STNM Hospital after reportedly falling from a three-story building in Tadong. The incident occurred on February 13, and the victim was receiving treatment in the emergency ward before passing away the following day. Authorities are conducting necessary investigations, and the body has been sent for legal formalities.

The deceased’s personal details and family information have been kept minimal to respect privacy.

Sikkim Government Expands Maternity and Child Care Leave for Female Employees

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"Sikkim's new female employee leave policy".

The Government of Sikkim has made significant updates to the Sikkim Government Service (Leave) Rules, 1982, offering improved maternity and child care leave provisions for female government employees.

Under the new amendments, female employees can now avail themselves of 180 days of fully paid maternity leave, with the option to take up to 60 days prior to childbirth. Additionally, women with children under the age of 18 can access up to 180 days of fully paid child care leave to address various needs, such as education, illness, and caregiving responsibilities.

These changes bring several benefits, including paid leave during child care leave without any prior engagement, no deduction from the Leave Account for child care leave, and the ability to take leave in three separate periods until the child reaches 18 years of age.

This initiative aims to support working mothers by providing them with adequate time for both maternity and child care without the worry of financial strain. It is expected to provide considerable assistance to female employees in balancing their professional and family commitments.

The notification, issued in the name of the Governor, was signed by Thinley P. Chankapa, Additional Secretary in the Department of Personnel, Government of Sikkim.

The two-day Vendor Development Programme (VDP) seminar concluded at Namchi.

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"Vendor Development Programme "

The two-day Vendor Development Programme (VDP) seminar, exhibition, and buyer-seller meet successfully concluded at Central Park, Namchi, today.

The programme was organized by the Development & Facilitation Office (DFO), Gangtok, under the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, in collaboration with the Small Industrial Development Bank of India (SIDBI).

On the final day, a technical session with various stakeholders was conducted by resource persons.

At the onset of the technical session, Ms Lamin Theengh Deputy Director TIC Namchi highlighted the key promotional aspects and business avenues in tourism sector of the state. She went on to discuss various aspects of tourism, including Eco-Tourism, Cultural and Spiritual Tourism, and Adventure Tourism,while emphasizing key promotional strategies such as Sikkim’s focus on sustainable and responsible tourism.

She also highlighted the immense potential of Rural and Agro-Tourism in promoting rural tourism and offering unique experiences of local culture and agriculture. Additionally, she spoke about the pivotal role of the Sikkim state government in promoting tourism through several initiatives, including the Sikkim Tourism Policy and the SIKKIM INSPIRES initiative.

Under this initiatives, various opportunities and training programme are provided for Sikkim’s youth to engage in different sectors, aiming to foster sustainable tourism and enhance infrastructure. Moreover, efforts to improve and promote hotels, and transportation services were also discussed.

Ms Dipti Rai, AD TIC Namchi, shared valuable insights into the registration process for homestays, travel agencies, and hotels. She also elaborated on how entrepreneurs can leverage Sikkim’s growing tourism industry and the future prospects in the sector.

Mr Bhim Rai Coordinator MSME Namchi District talked about various Central Government sponsored financial assistance and subsidized schemes provided though MSME to entrepreneurs like PM Vishwakasma Yojana, Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP). Further, he also explained the registration process, toolkit incentives, credit support, incentives for digital transaction and marketing support.

Mr Enosh Kumar State Head (GeM) Gangtok briefed the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) Portal and GeM apps. He informed that Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is the Public Procurement Portal for procurement of goods and services for all Central Government and State Government Ministries, Departments, Public Sector Units (PSUs) and affiliated and provides information about various business opportunities available for sellers and service providers. It also helps users explore and bid on government procurement tenders, fostering a competitive and transparent marketplace.

Mr Nirmal Chowdhury, Assistant Director (MSME-DFO), spoke about the aims and objectives of the programme and importance roles of MSME and creating awareness on enabling policies for “Atma Nirbhar Bharat”, Be Vocal for Local, Public Procurement Policy etc.

The programme saw the presence of Mr Nirmal Chowdhury, AD (MSME-DFO) Gangtok, Ms Lamin Theengh Deputy Director TIC Namchi, Ms Dipti Rai AD TIC Namchi, Mr Enosh Kumar State Head GeM (Gangtok) Ms Smita Rai Dist. Coordinator Namchi (SEED CELL) along with teachers, students, SHGs, entrepreneur and staff of MSME.

  • – IPR

Dead Body Recovered Near Mangan Petrol Pump

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" Dead Body Recovered Near Mangan ".

Body Recovered Near Mangan Petrol Pump, Investigation Underway

A man in his forties was found dead below a petrol pump in Mangan on the morning of February 14. Authorities discovered the body lying in a prone position with a visible head injury near the roadside. Police conducted an inquest and have sent the body for an autopsy to determine the cause of death.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased was last seen in an intoxicated state the night before. Law enforcement officials are actively investigating the matter.

CM PS Golay Inaugurates ‘Aama Ko Godh’ Rental Facility in Siliguri

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"CM PS Golay Inauguration"

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has inaugurated a rental accommodation facility called ‘Aama Ko Godh’ in Champasari, Siliguri.

This facility is meant to provide temporary shelter for patients referred from Sikkim for medical treatment. The initiative is part of the Garib Jankalyan Prakosta program and aims to help patients who struggle with high accommodation costs in Siliguri while undergoing treatment.

The building has three floors and is located about 300 meters from Champasari Mode. It has 11 rooms with twin-sharing arrangements and can accommodate around 20 to 24 families. This facility will serve as a temporary solution until the Sikkim government completes the construction of a dedicated patient accommodation center in Siliguri.

During the inauguration, Chief Minister PS Tamang emphasized the government’s commitment to easing the financial burden on patients and their families. He mentioned his earlier announcement regarding the construction of a government-owned shelter for referred patients in Siliguri. Until that permanent facility is ready, ‘Aama Ko Godh’ will provide support.

The project is managed by Garib Jankalyan Prakosta, which has been actively assisting Sikkimese patients receiving treatment in Siliguri. Prabhakar Goley was also present at the event, marking the formal launch of the facility.

8th Pay Commission: Salary Revision Expected, Minimum Pay May Rise to ₹51,480

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" 8th Pay Commission: Salary"

Preparations for the 8th Pay Commission have gained momentum as discussions progress on revising salaries and pensions for central government employees and retirees. Expenditure Secretary Manoj Govil confirmed that the commission is expected to begin its work in April 2025, pending approval from the Union Cabinet on its Terms of Reference (ToR). The Department of Personnel & Training and the Ministry of Defence will also provide input.

While the commission’s recommendations will shape future financial policies, their implementation is expected in 2026. The upcoming Union Budget will allocate funds to facilitate the commission’s work. The recommendations may also impact India’s Unified Pension Scheme (UPS).

The commission’s key focus will be revising salaries, allowances, and pensions in line with inflation. Expected recommendations include adjustments to the Dearness Allowance (DA) and other salary components.

Nearly 50 lakh government employees, including defense personnel, are expected to benefit. Reports suggest the minimum basic salary could increase from ₹18,000 to ₹51,480, offering substantial financial relief.

Historically, Pay Commissions have been established every decade to reassess government salaries and pensions. The 8th Pay Commission will follow the same mandate, bringing significant changes to employee compensation structures.