A new snake species, Boiga stoliczkae, has been identified in Rimbi, Sikkim, by naturalist Sonam Pintso Sherpa on December 13, 2024. Previously thought to be a sub-species of the Tawny Cat Snake (Boiga ochracea), recent studies by Kohler et al. (2023) have confirmed its status as a distinct species.
This mildly venomous snake, known for its orange coloration, was previously observed in Bhutan and Darjeeling but poses no danger to humans.
Bibek Pangeni, a Nepali PhD student in Physics and Astronomy at the University of Georgia, left the world too soon, succumbing to a brain tumor after a valiant two-year battle. Diagnosed in 2022, Bibek faced his illness with remarkable courage and determination, continuing to inspire those around him even in the face of immense challenges. His journey was one of hope, resilience, and the unyielding human spirit.
Standing steadfastly by his side throughout his ordeal was his wife, Srijana Subedi. Srijana’s dedication to her husband was nothing short of extraordinary. She became his caregiver, his advocate, and his unwavering source of strength, sacrificing her own aspirations and needs to ensure Bibek received the best possible care. Through the countless hospital visits, treatments, and moments of uncertainty, she remained a beacon of hope and support, embodying the truest form of love and devotion.
Despite their relentless fight and the support of friends, family, and the medical team, Bibek’s condition continued to worsen. He fought bravely until the very end, but today, his battle came to an end as he took his final breath. His passing leaves an indescribable void, not only for Srijana but also for the Nepali community and all who were touched by his story.
Sikkimese Para Athletes achieved a historic milestone by winning four medals at the 1st North East Para Sports Meet, marking a proud moment for the state.
Phuntsok Tashi Bhutia, an Accounts Clerk at Kabi BAC, clinched Sikkim’s first-ever Gold Medal in Table Tennis by defeating Assam’s Manoj in the final with a 3-1 set victory. Nim Dorjee Tamang secured a Bronze Medal in the 100m Freestyle Swimming, while Sher Bahadur Thapa and D. B. Basnett each earned Bronze in Shot Put.
Under the guidance of the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs (SYA), Sikkim sent eight Para Athletes to participate in the prestigious event. Deputy Director Norbu Tshering Bhutia led the team as Manager, with Pema Chenzem Bhutia as Assistant Coach. Hon’ble Minister for SYA, Shri Raju Basnett, extended his best wishes to the athletes before their departure on November 24, in the presence of Secretary Shri M. T. Sherpa.
The Department of SYA also organized a short coaching camp at Khelgaon and Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, providing TA/DA and sports kits.
This victory not only celebrates individual achievements but also showcases Sikkim’s growing prominence in Para Sports.
Dr. R B Biswakarma.
Sonam Pintso Sherpa, a renowned butterfly expert and conservationist from Rimbi, West Sikkim, has been honored with the Green Journalist Award at the 12th annual Balipara Foundation Awards held in Guwahati on Wednesday.
At 38, Sonam Pintso has dedicated his life to documenting and promoting Sikkim’s rich butterfly diversity, earning him widespread recognition in the field of environmental conservation. The award celebrates his outstanding contributions to environmental reporting and sustainability advocacy.
The Balipara Foundation Awards recognize individuals and organizations making impactful contributions to nature conservation and community resilience. This year’s ceremony brought together leading environmentalists and stakeholders who praised Sonam Pintso’s role in advancing awareness and action toward protecting biodiversity.
Sonam Pintso’s achievements underscore the growing importance of community-led conservation efforts in preserving Sikkim’s natural heritage.
The Supreme Court has dismissed two petitions challenging the appointment of Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and the Election Commission’s decision to reduce his disqualification period from six years to one. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan disposed of the petitions following withdrawal applications filed by Bimal Dawari Sharma and JB Darnal, functionaries of the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF).
Bimal Dawari Sharma, General Secretary of the SDF, and JB Darnal, Vice President of the party, claimed they never authorized anyone to file the petitions on their behalf. The Court acknowledged allegations that the petitioners might have faced external pressure to withdraw but emphasized that no one could be compelled to pursue a case.
The Court noted that Sharma’s petition was filed in his personal capacity and found no evidence of party authorization for Darnal’s substitution. Justice Surya Kant remarked that if such authorization existed, it should have been substantiated with a party resolution.
Senior Advocate Dr. GV Rao, representing the SDF, argued that the petitions were filed on behalf of the party. However, the Court found no evidence of SDF’s official approval.
While these petitions were dismissed, the Court clarified that the SDF or other public-spirited entities could file fresh challenges. A separate petition by Lok Prahari, a registered society, remains active and will proceed in due course.
Tribeny Rai’s ‘Shape of Momo’ Gains Global Recognition at Film Bazaar 2024
Sikkimese filmmaker Tribeny Rai’s debut feature film, Shape of Momo, is making waves on the global stage even before its completion. The film was jointly declared a winner, alongside Ridham Janve’s Hunter’s Moon, at the prestigious Work-in-Progress Lab during Film Bazaar 2024, held in Goa from November 20-28.
This recognition comes with significant in-kind support from Prasad Lab and Nube Studio, helping to propel the project toward completion. The film has also captured the attention of international media, including the renowned U.S.-based news outlet Variety.
Shape of Momo, a full-length Nepali feature, tells the inspiring story of a woman defying patriarchal norms. Shot extensively in and around Nandok, Sikkim, the project highlights the region’s culture and landscapes. Tribeny expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing the importance of representing Sikkim on an international platform.
With post-production yet to begin, the filmmaker is seeking additional funding to complete this ambitious project. This milestone adds to Tribeny Rai’s achievements as a national award-winning filmmaker and showcases Sikkim’s growing presence in global cinema.
Sikkim State Cooperative Bank Ltd. (SISCO Bank) has been honored with the prestigious third prize for ‘Overall Best Performance’ under the II Tier Structure at the All India Level for the year 2022-23. The award, presented by the National Federation of State Cooperative Banks (NAFSCOB), recognizes the bank’s outstanding achievements and contributions to the cooperative banking sector.
The award ceremony took place at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, on Tuesday. Smt. Pema Chenzom, Managing Director of SISCO Bank, received the award from the Honourable Minister Shri Amit Shaji.
This accolade is a testament to SISCO Bank’s consistent efforts to enhance its services, maintain financial stability, and promote inclusive growth. The bank has played a pivotal role in advancing financial inclusion and supporting cooperative banking initiatives in the region, earning national recognition for its achievements.
The recognition reaffirms the bank’s commitment to serving the community and fostering development through innovative financial solutions and dedicated service.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) today extended his warmest greetings and best wishes to the people of Sikkim and the entire nation on the occasion of Constitution Day. In a statement, CM Golay acknowledged the importance of this day in honoring the foundational document that governs the democratic fabric of India.
On this significant day, CM Golay emphasized the remarkable vision and tireless efforts of the framers of the Indian Constitution. He paid tribute to the exceptional leadership of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, whose intellect and foresight played an instrumental role in shaping the Constitution that continues to guide the nation.
“Today, we remember and express our deepest gratitude to the patriots, freedom fighters, visionary leaders, and the countless martyrs whose sacrifices made this day possible. Their unwavering courage and commitment laid the groundwork for a sovereign and democratic India,” said CM Golay.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the values enshrined in the Constitution – justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity – which form the cornerstone of the Indian Republic. He called upon the people to reaffirm their commitment to these ideals, working towards an inclusive, harmonious, and progressive society that ensures equal opportunities for all citizens to thrive.
“As we celebrate this momentous day, let us take pride in the spirit of democracy that binds us together as a nation. Our Constitution stands as a beacon of hope and unity, and it is our collective responsibility to uphold its values and work towards a brighter future for all,” CM Golay added.
The Chief Minister concluded his message by wishing everyone a Happy Constitution Day, urging all to contribute to the continued success and progress of India’s democratic journey.
Sikkim’s Youth Leader Tshering Wangchuk Lepcha has been selected to participate in a prestigious three-week program titled “Not Too Young to Run: Engaging Youth in the Political Process,” organized under the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP).
The program will take place from October 15 to November 1, 2024, in the United States. During his visit, Lepcha will represent Sikkim and India, engaging with global leaders on various political and civic topics, such as youth empowerment, leadership development, and election transparency.
This workshop will provide a platform for him to showcase Sikkim’s initiatives and engage with global youth on topics related to sustainable development and environmental conservation.
His participation will also highlight Sikkim’s innovative programs like “Mero Rukh, Mero Santani” and address crucial issues such as Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF).
Pakyong, October 7: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to visit Sikkim from October 10-12, undertaking several key engagements. One of the highlights will be the inauguration of the Prerna Sthal memorial at Bardang, built in honor of Army personnel who lost their lives in the October 4, 2023 Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF).
Singh will also tour North Sikkim, his first visit since the GLOF disaster, where discussions are expected to focus on road conditions and connectivity issues caused by the calamity. The Defence Minister will meet with officials from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), GREF, and the Indian Army to review ongoing projects. Chief Minister PS Tamang and Governor Om Prakash Mathur will accompany him throughout the visit.
