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Sikkim Scope, Gangtok (2025)

28/01/2025

Teesta-III Dam Reconstruction in Sikkim Approved Amid Controversy Over Public Hearing Exemption

The Environment Ministry’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has granted approval for the reconstruction of the Teesta-III dam in Sikkim, more than a year after the catastrophic flood triggered by the South Lhonak glacial lake outburst in October 2023. This disaster led to the loss of 40 lives, left many missing, and impacted over 100 villages.

The new dam, designed as a 118.64-meter-high concrete gravity structure, will replace the original rockfill dam destroyed in the flood. Sikkim Urja Limited, the project operator, plans to significantly increase the spillway’s capacity to handle extreme flood scenarios, raising it from 7,000 cumecs to nearly 20,000 cumecs.

However, concerns regarding the dam’s safety and design persist. A December 2024 site visit by an EAC sub-committee highlighted the need for updated flood risk studies and additional safety measures, including early warning systems and monitoring of glacial lakes and landslide-prone areas. Despite these concerns, the EAC approved the project without holding a new public hearing, arguing that no new land acquisition or displacement is involved. This decision, coming more than 15 years after the last public consultation in 2006, has drawn criticism from environmentalists and local communities.

The reconstruction will be managed by Sikkim Urja, now majority-owned by the Greenko Group.

26/01/2025

Jewelry Shop Offers Reward for Identifying Suspected Thieves

A local jewelry shop owner has announced a reward for anyone who can identify and locate two women captured in a video and photos. The shop owner alleges that the women are professional thieves who recently stole items from the store.

A General Diary (G.D.) has already been filed at the concerned police station, and an investigation is underway.

If you have any information regarding the suspects, please contact:
8597089436 / 9733124124

Video Credit-Sikkim Daily News

22/01/2025

District Collector Issues Directive to Ensure Cleanliness in Office Toilets
Soreng, January 22: The District Collector-cum-Magistrate of Soreng has issued a strict circular to all Heads of Offices (HoOs) to address the poor state of hygiene in office toilets, particularly common facilities. The directive follows repeated concerns over the unhygienic conditions of toilets despite the presence of Safai Karamcharis in government offices.

The circular highlights inadequate supervision as a key issue, leading to poor maintenance of sanitation facilities. To rectify this, the District Collector has instructed HoOs to personally oversee the cleanliness of office toilets, ensuring they are cleaned at least three to four times a day.

Additionally, Heads of Departments (HoDs) are required to prepare a duty roster for Safai Karamcharis, specifying their cleaning schedules. A compliance report, complete with photographic evidence or selfies of clean toilets, must be submitted by January 25, 2025.

The directive also warns that strict action will be taken against Safai Karamcharis who fail to fulfill their responsibilities, underscoring the administration’s commitment to maintaining hygiene standards in government offices.

22/01/2025

First-Year B.Tech CSE Dies by falling off from 8th Floor of Girls Hostel ,SMIT, Majhitar

A first-year B.Tech CSE student from Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology (SMIT) tragically ended her life by jumping from the 8th floor of Girls' Hostel 4.

According to initial reports from pur credible sources the student hailed from Assam. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances leading to this incident.

22/01/2025

TikTok's Return to the U.S. Market Following President Trump's Inauguration

On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump, upon his inauguration, signed an executive order granting a 75-day reprieve to TikTok, effectively suspending the app's ban in the United States. This decision allows ByteDance, TikTok's China-based parent company, additional time to negotiate a potential sale to a U.S. entity, addressing national security concerns that had previously led to the app's prohibition.

The ban, which took effect on January 19, 2025, was a result of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act (PAFACA), mandating ByteDance to divest its U.S. operations of TikTok. Following the Supreme Court's upholding of this law, TikTok services were suspended, and the app was removed from major platforms, including the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Users attempting to access the app encountered notifications about the service's unavailability in the U.S.

In response to the suspension, President Trump indicated his intention to issue an executive order extending the deadline, allowing TikTok to continue operations while discussions regarding its ownership proceeded. This move was seen as an effort to balance national security concerns with the app's significant popularity among American users.

Despite the executive order, as of January 22, 2025, TikTok remains unavailable for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in the U.S. Existing users can access the platform through its web-based version, but new downloads and updates are restricted. This limitation is due to the stipulations of PAFACA, which prohibits the distribution of apps developed by ByteDance. Service providers, including app stores, face potential fines for non-compliance during the 75-day extension period.

The future of TikTok in the U.S. remains uncertain as ByteDance navigates the complexities of divestiture and compliance with federal regulations. The 75-day extension provides a window for potential resolutions, but the outcome will depend on ongoing negotiations and policy decisions by the current administration.

22/01/2025

Padma Shri Awardee and Renowned Gorkha Musician Kaajee Singh Passes Away at 80

Padma Shri recipient and legendary Gorkha musician Kaajee Singh has passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind an indelible legacy in the world of music. Renowned for his immense contributions to Gorkha music and culture, Singh was a cherished figure whose work played a pivotal role in preserving the rich musical heritage of the Gorkha community.

Over the course of his illustrious career, Singh’s soulful compositions and unique melodies resonated deeply with audiences, becoming a source of inspiration and pride for Gorkhas worldwide. His efforts to uphold and promote the art form earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors.

Singh’s passing marks the end of an era for Gorkha music, but his timeless creations will continue to inspire generations to come.

22/01/2025

The Citizen Action Party-Sikkim (CAP-Sikkim) participated in a pivotal meeting convened by the 16th Finance Commission, chaired by the esteemed Dr. Arvind Panagariya, at Chintan Bhawan, Gangtok on 20th January 2025. The meeting provided a platform for political parties to share their observations and recommendations concerning Sikkim’s economic and developmental challenges.

Press Release | Citizen Action Party-Sikkim
Date: 21st January 2025

The CAP-Sikkim delegation, led by Shri Lakpa Sherpa (Vice President, National Coordination), included Shri Prashant Babu Chettri (Vice President, Administration), Shri B.B. Chamling (Treasurer), and Shri Mahesh Rai (Spokesperson). Shri Lakpa Sherpa, on behalf of the party, presented an in-depth analysis of Sikkim’s economic plight and outlined key recommendations to address the state’s pressing issues.

In his presentation, Shri Sherpa expressed gratitude to the Government of India for its continued support to Sikkim since its statehood in 1975. He highlighted the state’s significant reliance on central assistance and stressed the need for judicious fund allocation, given Sikkim’s deteriorating economic landscape.

While acknowledging the government’s achievements, Shri Sherpa pointed out systemic inefficiencies and challenges, including:
1. Agriculture Decline: Despite being declared an organic state in 2016, agriculture’s contribution to the GSDP has significantly declined, leaving rural communities struggling.
2. Service Sector Underperformance: Mismanagement of tourism—a key driver of the service sector—has led to stagnation and missed opportunities for growth.
3. Dysfunctional PSUs: State-run public sector undertakings are failing due to apathy and lack of strategic oversight.
4. Government Spending Concerns: With over 58% of state expenditure committed to salaries and pensions, fiscal deficits and debt-to-GSDP ratios are alarmingly high.
5. Corruption and Financial Mismanagement: Rampant corruption, misuse of disaster management funds, and the prioritization of short-term populist schemes over sustainable development have exacerbated the state’s economic crisis.

Shri Sherpa also raised concerns about the lack of capital creation and overreliance on centrally sponsored schemes like MGNREGS for rural livelihoods. He emphasized the urgent need for systemic reforms to ensure the efficient utilization of funds.

The CAP-Sikkim delegation called upon the 16th Finance Commission to:
• Implement stringent monitoring mechanisms for fund utilization.
• Promote governance reforms to curb corruption and improve fiscal discipline.
• Address declining agricultural productivity and service sector growth.
• Prioritize disaster preparedness and sustainable development initiatives.

In conclusion, the party reiterated its commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to secure a prosperous future for Sikkim. It emphasized that the vision of a Vikash*t Bharat by 2047 can only be realized through improved governance and transparent use of resources at the state level.

The Citizen Action Party-Sikkim thanks Dr. Arvind Panagariya and the 16th Finance Commission for providing this opportunity to voice the concerns of Sikkim’s citizens.

Albert Gurung
Spokesperson,
Citizen Action Party-Sikkim

21/01/2025

CM Extends Financial Aid to 150 Beneficiaries

Chief Minister PS Tamang provided financial assistance to around 150 individuals, including students pursuing higher education, entrepreneurs, and patients needing medical care. The support was given under the Chief Minister’s Discretionary Grant, the Chief Minister’s Medical Assistance Scheme, and the Chief Minister’s Education Assistance Scheme.

The CM emphasized the government’s commitment to helping every individual achieve their dreams, regardless of their background. He expressed hope that this assistance would empower people and create a more inclusive and compassionate society where no one is left behind.

21/01/2025

CM PS Tamang Renames Women and Child Development Department to Embrace Senior Citizens and Persons with Disabilities

In a progressive move aimed at promoting inclusivity, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has announced the renaming of the Women and Child Development Department to include senior citizens and persons with disabilities in its purview. The announcement was made during a recent public event, highlighting the state government’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive society.

The newly renamed department, which will now be known as the "Department of Women, Child Development, Senior Citizens, and Persons with Disabilities," seeks to broaden its scope to cater to the needs of these vulnerable sections of society. The Chief Minister emphasized that the move is part of the government's efforts to ensure holistic welfare and development for all.

21/01/2025

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang Joins Kailash Kher in Electrifying Live Concert Performance at Jorethang.

In a heartwarming and lively moment, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang was seen dancing to the soulful tunes of Padmashree Kailash Kher during a recent live concert. The event, held amidst much fanfare, turned into a memorable evening as the Chief Minister’s enthusiastic participation added a special charm to the already electrifying atmosphere.

The concert, featuring the renowned playback singer and Padmashree awardee Kailash Kher, drew a massive crowd of music lovers. Known for his powerful voice and spiritual melodies, Kher delivered an outstanding performance, captivating the audience with hits like Teri Deewani and Saiyyan.

However, the highlight of the evening came when Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, moved by the energy and spirit of the music, joined in by dancing to one of Kher’s iconic numbers. His spontaneous and cheerful dance moves not only surprised the audience but also brought smiles and applause from the crowd.

This unexpected gesture from the Chief Minister resonated deeply with the attendees, making the concert more interactive and engaging. It reflected his approachable personality and his ability to connect with the people of the state on a cultural and emotional level.

Speaking about the event, Kailash Kher expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming response and lauded the Chief Minister’s participation. “Music has the power to bring everyone together, and tonight was a perfect example of that. Seeing the Chief Minister enjoying the performance like everyone else was truly special,” he said.

The programme was not just a celebration of music but also a testament to the unifying power of art, transcending barriers and bringing people closer. The Chief Minister’s dance moves, coupled with Kailash Kher’s mesmerizing performance, turned the evening into an unforgettable experience for all.

21/01/2025

Chief Minister visits The Creative Hub, an IPR initiative at Green Park, Jorethang.

Namchi, January 21 (IPR): The Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, visited The Creative Hub, an IPR initiative, at Green Park Jorethang, during the evening hours of the closing day of the Maghey Sankranti Mela, 2025, today.

The Chief Minister took a brief visit of the stalls that have been set up at the venue and also interacted with the stall owners there.

The Creative Hub is the first of its kind at Maghey Sankranti Mela, that blends modern and traditional aspects of the society creating a unique experience to all the ones visiting.

Report from DIO Namchi

@50

21/01/2025

Visuals Of Tragic Fire At The Grand Kartal Hotel in Kartalkaya Ski Resort, Turkey Which Reportedly Took Lives Of 66 Innocents Leaving Many Injured.

The hotel is located in Bolu province, a popular area for skiing.

Cause of fire is being investigated meanwhile.

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