Wednesday, August 26, 2026
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Minister & MLA Visits Namthang to Review Tourism Projects

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" MLA Visits Namthang to Review Tourism Projects"

Today, the Minister of Commerce & Industries and Tourism & Civil Aviation Departments, accompanied by Area MLA Sanjeet Kharel, Advisor to the HCM Rohit Raj Gurung (Maharaj), Prakash Chettri, Secretary of the Tourism Department, officials from the Tourism Department, the concerned contractor, and members of the Namthang Rateypani community, visited key tourism viewpoints in the region.

The visit focused on the ongoing Astachiranjivi Dham project at Nagi, under Namthang Rateypani. The Minister expressed his commitment to ensuring the timely completion of this important project, which is expected to significantly enhance tourism in the region. He assured that all necessary support would be provided to fast-track the completion of Astachiranjivi Dham.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister PS Golay, the project is expected to be completed soon and inaugurated by the Chief Minister. The Minister praised the Chief Minister for recognizing Sikkim’s vast tourism potential and continuously working to position the state as a premier tourist destination.

The Minister reiterated his commitment to the people of Namthang Rateypani, assuring them of ongoing efforts to boost and sustain tourism development in the region. The government will continue to provide all necessary assistance to improve infrastructure and enhance the overall visitor experience.

Area MLA Sanjeet Kharel expressed his gratitude to the Minister, Advisor to HCM, the Secretary of the Tourism Department, and the public for taking the time to visit and review ongoing projects. His appreciation was warmly received by all present.

The visit aimed at reviewing the progress of current tourism projects and exploring future opportunities for enhancing Namthang Rateypani as a key tourist destination. The Minister’s steadfast support for the region’s development was met with wide appreciation from the local community and tourism stakeholders.

The event concluded on a positive note, with a renewed commitment to accelerating the region’s tourism growth under the guidance of Chief Minister PS Golay.

16-Year-Old Girl found dead in Tadong

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" 16-Year-Old Girl found dead in Tadong"

Unnatural Death has been reported in tadong of 16-Year-Old Girl in Tadong

A 16-year-old girl was brought dead to CRH Tadong. Authorities have confirmed that no suspicious circumstances were found surrounding her death. The case has been registered as an unnatural death, and police are monitoring the situation closely.

EIECOS+1 Pushes for ST Status, Holds Press Conference in Gangtok

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"BL Community Demands ST Status"

A crucial press conference was held in Gangtok today by EIECOS+1 to discuss the Scheduled Tribe (ST) status demand for Sikkim’s 12 left-out communities. The event followed the February 10 meeting at Old Sikkim House, New Delhi, chaired by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang.

Dr. S.K. Rai, Chairman of EIECOS+1, stated that the meeting included ministers, MPs, MLAs, the Deputy Speaker, and members of the Sikkim State High-Level Committee (SSHLC). The focus was on addressing objections raised by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Registrar General of India (RGI) to strengthen the case for ST status.

Ethnographic reports were a key aspect of the discussion, with presentations by Prof. B.V. Sharma (Kirat Khambu Rai and Yakha Dewan), Prof. M.P. Lama (Gurung), and Prof. Nupur Tiwari (Newar). Sarika Pradhan, Member Secretary of EIECOS+1, outlined the roadmap for final report submission, including field surveys from March 1-6 and a final SSHLC meeting from March 25-27, with the report due by March 31.

Dr. Rai emphasized the importance of a meticulous review process to ensure the authenticity of the reports. The press conference concluded with a strong call for timely action to secure tribal recognition for the 12 communities.

Sikkim State Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM) Returns Home with Prestigious SKOCH National Award 2024

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Chief Executive Officer, Sikkim State Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM) Returns Home with Prestigious SKOCH National Award 2024

Mrs Radha Pradhan, Chief Executive Officer, Sikkim State Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM), Rural Development Department (RDD), was welcomed in Rangpo today after receiving the SKOCH National Award 2024 at the 100th SKOCH Summit held at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.

She was accompanied by Ms Sweta Karki, Deputy Project Manager (Livelihood), representing Sikkim SRLM RDD at the event.

The SKOCH Award, established in 2003, honours individuals, projects, and institutions for contributions to India’s development across governance, finance, and social sectors.

On her arrival at Rangpo Tourist Facilitation Centre, she was welcomed by Block Project Managers from various blocks under the district along Block Development Society Leaders.

One Killed, Another Seriously Injured in Sikkim-Registered Vehicle Crash in Assam

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One Killed, Another Seriously Injured in Sikkim-Registered Vehicle Crash in Assam’s Bajali District

A tragic road accident occurred in Bajali district, Assam, today involving a Sikkim-registered vehicle. One person was confirmed dead at the scene, while another was critically injured. Emergency services responded promptly, and the injured victim was transported to a nearby hospital.

Local authorities are investigating the cause of the incident, with more updates expected as the investigation progresses.

Sikkim’s Sandhya Singzango (Subba) Honored with Pratibha Puraskar 2025

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Writer and researcher Sandhya Singzango (Subba) from Assam Lingzey, Pakyong, Sikkim, has been awarded the Pratibha Puraskar 2025, a prestigious recognition conferred by Nepali Pratibha Pratisthan UK under the leadership of Shri Tanka Wanem (UK). The award, which includes a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh, was presented by eminent writer Shri Bairagi Kainla (Tilbikram Nembang). Notably, Sandhya is the first overseas recipient of this honor.

A distinguished researcher in Limbu literature and academia, Sandhya has made significant contributions through her scholarly works. Her notable publications include:

  • Limbu Shamans: A Directory of Limbu Shamans in Sikkim (2022)
  • Yakthung Civilization (2023), a collection of academic articles
  • English translations of Mundhum volumes, including Chaiit Mundhum: The Story of Creation and Mujingna Kheyongna Mundhum (2022), originally compiled by Bairagi Kainla
  • Yakthung Mundhumlore (2024), featuring twenty stories extracted and compiled from the rich legacy of Yakthung Mundhum, offering profound insights into Limbu history and cultural values

In recognition of her academic excellence, Sandhya received the Bishnu Dutt-Saraswati Angbuhang Anusandhanvriti grant from the Limbu Study Centre, Kathmandu, in 2024. She also demonstrated her poetic talent by securing third place at the 32nd National Poetry Festival organized by the Bimal Gurung Memorial Library in Dharan, Nepal.

Beyond literature, she has actively contributed to Limbu cultural preservation, serving as General Secretary of Sukhim Pungwa Yuma Samyo Society and Sukhim Yakthung Chasok Tongnam Lokchum. Currently, she is engaged in ongoing research on Yakthung Civilization and translating additional volumes of ‘Mundhum’ into English.

Her relentless dedication to preserving and promoting Limbu literature and culture makes her a truly deserving recipient of the Pratibha Puraskar 2025.

Sikkim Reports 15 Suicides in One Week, Including Four on a Single Day in February

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A shocking 17 suicides have been reported across Sikkim between February 8 and 15, raising serious concerns about mental health, financial distress, and social pressures. The victims range from teenagers to elderly individuals, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and awareness.

According to police reports, three teenagers, including a 13-year-old in Gyalshing, a 14-year-old in Pakyong, and a 17-year-old in Namchi, died by suicide. One of them was a Class X student preparing for board exams, bringing academic pressure into focus. Among young adults, six cases were reported, including a 19-year-old woman in Temi, a 21-year-old woman in Mangan, and four men aged 25 to 38. Some of these victims were struggling with financial or personal issues. Five middle-aged individuals, including a 30-year-old pharmaceutical employee, three men in their forties, and a 49-year-old laborer, were also among the deceased. Additionally, a 71-year-old man reportedly jumped off Rothak Bridge in Soreng.

Amongst this One suicide was reported in Namchi South Sikkim where one young lady committed suicide and one case was reported in Ganathang Machong Constituency last few day ago.

While investigations continue, preliminary findings suggest depression, anxiety, financial distress, family conflicts, and substance abuse as contributing factors. Experts have warned that stress, unemployment, and isolation may be playing a significant role in the growing crisis.

The recent spike in suicides has prompted calls for immediate action, including suicide prevention helplines, free counseling services, and mental health programs in schools and workplaces. Authorities and mental health professionals stress the importance of community support, urging families to recognize early warning signs and seek help.

The alarming number of deaths in such a short period underscores a larger crisis in Sikkim. Suicide is preventable, and with timely intervention, awareness, and support, many lives can be saved. Authorities urge those in distress to reach out for help and encourage open discussions on mental health.

Sikkim Forest Dept. & Global Tiger Forum Hand Over Letters for Mitigation

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Sikkim Forest Department and Global Tiger Forum Handover Token letters for Greenhouse construction and Ex-gratia/relief payment as Mitigation measure for Human-Wildlife Conflict Management

Gangtok, February 15: The State Forest and Environment Department, in collaboration with the Global Tiger Forum (GTF), conducted token distribution of allotment letters for Greenhouse construction, Fencing works and Ex-gratia/ relief payment to the affected communities under Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary.
This was carried out in response to the growing Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) resulting from increased forest cover and strengthened biodiversity in the state. These interventions are part of a comprehensive effort to reduce crop damage, livestock loss, and other challenges posed by wildlife in conflict-prone areas, particularly tiger habitats.
Hon’ble MP Dr. Indra Hang Subba presided over the event along with the officials of the Forest Department and representatives of Global Tiger Forum in the Blue Duke Festival in Saramsa Garden.
This initiative is part of the project titled Investigating and Addressing Tiger Conservation in Sikkim – Eastern Himalayas under the IUCN-KfW-supported Integrated Tiger Habitat Conservation Programme (ITHCP), which promotes coexistence and ecological balance.
As part of efforts to mitigate human-wildlife conflict (HWC), 20 greenhouses were sanctioned , within that 5 token allotment letters were handed over through our Hon’ble MP to areas with high incidences of such conflicts, including Dalapchand, Regu Dara, Dockin, Premlakha, and Singaneybas. Fencing repair materials allotment certificate were also provided to Singaneybas and South Regu. These interventions aim to support affected communities by providing greenhouse structures to help farmers sustain their livelihoods despite wildlife-related damages, strengthening and repairing fences along forest fringes to reduce wildlife incursions into human settlements, and enhancing ex-gratia/relief payments to ensure timely financial support for individuals impacted by wildlife interactions.

The Forest Department remains committed to sustainable conservation while addressing the challenges posed by increasing wildlife presence near human habitations. Further measures, including awareness campaigns, habitat management, and community-based monitoring, are also being explored to foster long-term coexistence.

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.