Sikkim Express

22/12/2024

21/12/2024

Former MLA Krishna Rai, along with Speaker of the SLA M.N. Sherpa, Deputy Speaker Raj Kumari Thapa, SKM Party Secretary General and RDD Minister Arun Uprety, Ecclesiastical Minister Sonam Lama, UDD Minister Bhoj Raj Rai, Forest Minister Pintso Namgyal, and other party functionaries, offered prayers at Rholu Mandir on the occasion of the 16th Rholu Diwas.

21/12/2024

Speaker MN Sherpa the chief guest for the 16th Rholu Diwas addressed the gathering. In his address, Sherpa highlighted the significance of Rholu Diwas, which led to the ‘Parivartan’ movement under the leadership of party president P.S. Golay in 2009.
“We were part of the historic Rholu picnic, but the then government took harsh measures against the attendees, including government employees. Many were victimized, transferred, or suspended. However, the ardent Krantikaris continued their movement under the leadership of our party leader,” said Sherpa.

Party President and Chief Minister P.S. Tamang was unable to attend the function as he had to participate in the NEC Plenary Meeting in Tripura.

21/12/2024

Pre-Namsoong festival commences at Gangtok’s Vajra World


A two-day pre-Namsoong festival celebrations is taking place at Vajra World, Gangtok showcasing the Lepcha community’s culture, heritage, cuisine and traditional products.
The opening day event on Saturday was attended by Education secretary Tashi Chophel, CMO additional secretary Karnimit Lepcha, prominent individuals and guests. The two-day celebration is organized by Dzongu Heritage, an initiative led by Mayel Dok Lepcha.
The theme for this year’s festival is Lungthen Saa. The event began with the lighting of a butter lamp and prayers offered to Mount Khangchendzonga amidst traditional rituals.
In his welcome address, Sonam Gyaltsen Tenzing, Director of Sonju Private Limited, highlighted the festival’s importance in promoting the Lepcha community's rich cultural heritage.
The audience was treated to a traditional Lepcha dance performance by Kurnok Aachok and a rendition of a Lepcha song. Prominent members of the Lepcha community were honored for their contributions to society, including scholar Dr. Karma Hishey Lepcha and cricketer Lhakmit Lepcha.
Traditional Lepcha stalls showcased handicrafts and delicacies, while Mikmar Lepcha conducted a workshop on making traditional Lepcha hats, Samam and Samok, crafted from bamboo, fiber, and Kaferniom leaves.
In his address, chief guest Tashi Chophel commended the youth for their pivotal role in organizing the event. He stressed the importance of preserving cultural identity, highlighting that the Lepcha community, as the original inhabitants of Sikkim, must safeguard and express their heritage. He concluded by expressing gratitude to the organizers for their dedication to making the event a success.
The first day concluded with captivating folk tales and musical performances, leaving attendees eagerly anticipating the festivities ahead.

- Jaswant Gautam / SE Report

21/12/2024

NEC Plenary Meeting: Sikkim CM seeks robust support for upgrading tourism infra


Chief Minister PS Golay on Saturday attended the 72nd plenary meeting of the North Eastern Council (NEC) chaired by Union Home minister Amit Shah in Agartala.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister highlighted several critical issues concerning Sikkim, while emphasizing the importance of a collective vision for a sustainable and prosperous future for the North Eastern region.
Expressing his gratitude for the Union Budget 2024-25, Golay reiterated the urgent need for united efforts to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat-2047. Recognizing the vital role of tourism and the MSME sectors as the lifeblood of our economy, I appealed to the Central government to extend robust support in upgrading tourism infrastructure, facilitating development, and ensuring proper maintenance, he said.
As shared on his social media platforms, the Chief Minister proposed the initiation of a pilot project under the aegis of NEC and the Central Government to enhance tourism and entrepreneurship in the region. Further, he underscored the immense potential of ecotourism, highlighting a few successful projects executed in Sikkim.
Similarly, one of the key issues the Chief Minister raised was the reopening of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Sikkim. He also reiterated the necessity of establishing an Integrated Check Post and a Multimodal Corridor at West Sikkim’s Chiwa Bhanjyang on the Nepal border, which would significantly bolster regional connectivity and trade.
He extended his appreciation to the Central Government for the UNNATI Scheme 2024, aimed at empowering our youth through employment generation projects.
“Moreover, I brought to the forefront the disruptions caused along NH10 due to the Teesta floods and river silting in low lying areas, urging for immediate redressal. I also emphasized the importance of expediting the completion of the railway project to strengthen connectivity,” shared the Chief Minister.
Regarding Pakyong Airport, Golay stressed the need for all-weather connectivity and called for structural remedies to ensure continuous services. I also informed the house about Sikkim’s upcoming Golden Jubilee Year of Statehood, which will be celebrated on 16th May 2025, marking 50 years since attaining Statehood, he said.
The Chief Minister extended his heartiest thanks to Union Home minister Amit Shah, Governors, Chief Ministers, DoNER minister, MoS, officials of NEC, and both Central and State government representatives for their insights and collaboration.

- SA Report

21/12/2024

Hill Leaders’ Apology To Sikkim Over Edwards’s Remarks


Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM) chief Anit Thapa and Darjeeling MLA Neeraj Zimba on Friday “apologized” to the people of Sikkim over the recent statement made by Hamro Party president Ajoy Edwards while also accusing him of trying to disrupt the relationship between Sikkim and Darjeeling hills.

https://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/hill-leaders-apology-to-sikkim-over-edwardss-remarks

21/12/2024

DARJEELING MELO TEA FEST: DHOTREY DECLARED CLEANEST TOURISM VILLAGE


The village located in Rimbick-Lodhama constituency boasts about 80 households and is known for its organic practices and untouched natural beauty.

https://sikkimexpress.com/news-details/darjeeling-melo-tea-fest-dhotrey-declared-cleanest-tourism-village

21/12/2024

CM unable to attend Rholu Diwas as NEC meet happening today in Tripura


Chief Minister PS Golay, also the SKM president, is not attending the ruling front’s 16th Rholu Diwas celebrations on Saturday with the NEC plenary meeting also taking place the same day at Agartala, Tripura.
Rholu Diwas is a major political day for the SKM and is annually celebrated at Rholu field located along Jorethang-Melli road in South Sikkim.
“However, due to the imperative situation of attending the 72nd Plenary Meeting of the NEC in Tripura, I am unable to be present physically. Despite this, my spirit remains every moment at Rholu, joining our people in prayer, reverence, and grand celebration for this momentous day,” shared the Chief Minister on social media.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is chairing the NEC plenary session. DoNER minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, along with Governors and Chief Ministers of all eight Northeastern States and senior officials are attending the meet.
In his message, Golay expressed that Rholu Diwas is a tribute to the unparalleled courage, determination, and indomitable spirit of the people of Sikkim, to whom I extend my deepest gratitude and highest respect on this auspicious day.
“The trials and tribulations we faced were immense, yet they were met with unparalleled resolve and unity by our people, whose steadfast devotion and sacrifices became the foundation of the transformative movement against the tyranny of the past regime.
With utmost reverence, I bow in gratitude to the people for their perseverance, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment to justice and democracy. Your courage has meticulously shaped our past continuing to illuminate our path forward,” said Golay.

- SE Report

21/12/2024

21/12/2024

Chief Minister PS Tamang conveyed his message on the occasion of the 16th Rholu Diwas. However, he will not be present at the celebrations as he will be attending the 72nd Plenary Meeting of the NEC in Tripura.

Rholu is the most sacred shrine where my soul is deeply touched by the divine and nurturing vibrations of Manokamana Siddhi Devi Rholu Mata's blessings. On this auspicious occasion of Rholu Diwas, my heart brimmed with enthusiasm and a fervent desire to unite with our beloved people for collective worship and celebration.

However, due to the imperative situation of attending the 72nd Plenary Meeting of the NEC in Tripura, I am unable to be present physically. Despite this, my spirit remains every moment at Rholu, joining our people in prayer, reverence, and grand celebration for this momentous day.

As we honor this day, we humbly bow before Rolu Manokamana Siddhi Devi, seeking her Divine blessings for the enduring success, prosperity, and wellbeing of every Sikkimese individual.

Rolu Diwas is a tribute to the unparalleled courage, determination, and indomitable spirit of the people of Sikkim, to whom I extend my deepest gratitude and highest respect on this auspicious day.

The trials and tribulations we faced were immense, yet they were met with unparalleled resolve and unity by our people, whose steadfast devotion and sacrifices became the foundation of the transformative movement against the tyranny of the past regime.

With utmost reverence, I bow in gratitude to the people for their perseverance, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment to justice and democracy. Your courage has meticulously shaped our past continuing to illuminate our path forward.

Jai Rolu Mata !

20/12/2024

State BJP president meets Shah, discussion organisational & political issues


Sikkim BJP president DR Thapa on Friday had an important meeting with Union Home minister Amit Shah at Siliguri.
The meeting took place as the Union Home minister was in Siliguri to grace the Raising Day of SSB, a State BJP release informs.
The State BJP president congratulated the Union Home minister for the massive victory in the recently held Maharashtra Assembly Elections, demonstrating the party's growing strength.
“During the meeting, organisational issues related to BJP Sikkim as well as political and other regional issues were thoroughly discussed. The meeting underscores the party's commitment to strengthening its organisation in Sikkim and advancing mutual interests in the region,” said the State BJP.
Darjeeling MP Raju Bista was also present during the meeting.

- SE Report

20/12/2024

Press Release | Pre-Namsoong Festival to Celebrate Lepcha Culture in Gangtok

Gangtok is all set to host the Khamri Pre-Namsoong Festival on December 21st and 22nd, 2024, at the Sky-Hi Lounge & Bar, Vajra World. The festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of the Lepcha community's rich culture, heritage, food, and history, with the theme "Lungthen Saa."

The event will feature traditional Lepcha performances, culinary delights, and cultural exhibitions, offering a unique opportunity to explore the heritage of one of Sikkim's indigenous communities.

Supported under the RAMP Scheme, the festival is brought to life with the collaboration of the Commerce & Industries Department, Vajra World as the venue partner, and Sky-Hi Lounge as the food partner.

The Pre-Namsoong Festival invites everyone to join in this grand celebration of unity, culture, and tradition. Don’t miss the chance to witness the best of Lepcha heritage in the heart of Gangtok!

20/12/2024

CM congratulates Sikkim women’s football team for historic selection in 38th National Games


Chief Minister PS Golay has expressed his joy and pride over the selection of Sikkim State women’s football team for the 38th National Games taking place in Uttarakhand in February 2025.
This well-deserved nomination is a result of their exceptional performances during the 2023-24 season of the Senior National Football Championships, said the Chief Minister on social media.
“This remarkable milestone marks a historic first for our State, as our women’s football team has earned the honor of being shortlisted for the National Games. Their achievement is a testament to their relentless passion, dedication and commitment to excellence in the beautiful game of football. It also reflects the rising standards of women’s sports in our State, driven by their grit and determination,” said the Chief Minister.
“On behalf of the entire State, I extend my heartiest congratulations and best wishes to the team. May they continue to shine, inspire, and make us proud on this grand national stage,” added Golay.
The football competition under the 38th National Games will be held in Haldwani, Uttarakhand in February 2025.
Eight top State teams including Sikkim and the host State Uttarakhand have been selected for the 38th National Games 2025 based on their performances in the 2023-24 season of senior national football championships.

- SE Report