|
|
Various
Personalities awarded on Sikkim State Day-
Chief Minister Chamling
highlights their contribution
Gangtok, 16th May: State Day was
celebrated here at Chintan Bhawan, Gangtok today with the felicitation
to various personalities who have contributed to the society in the
field of social service, sports, music and arts, literature etc. Nine
personalities from various walks of life were conferred with Sikkim Sewa
Ratna and twenty personalities were felicitated with Sikkim Sewa Samman
from His Excellency the Governor of Sikkim and Hon’ble Chief Minister of
Sikkim. LD Kazi Award for Democratic Movement was conferred to Shri Man
Bahadur Tamang of pachey, Dugalakha, East Sikkim for the role in the
democratic movement of the state. His Excellency also presented the
Jeevan Raksha Padak to Shri Vivek Sharma who had received the award
during the year 2011from the President of India for saving a life of a
child. The programme also saw joint release of three books viz. Coffee
Table pictorial book and a narrative documentation on Sikkim Bhraman
published by Information and Public Relations Department, Government of
Sikkim and Ethno Ornithology of Lepchas of Sikkim written by Vanya Jha
and Ajeya Jha, by His Excellency The Governor of Sikkim and Hon’ble
Chief Minister of Sikkim.
His Excellency the Governor of Sikkim while addressing the gathering
quoted Dr. B.R. Ambedkar who asserted in the Constituent Assembly
that“we must make our political democracy a social democracy as
well”,‘social democracy seeks to establish a way of life which
recognizes equality, liberty and fraternity as the principles of
life’ and further added that the evolution of political democracy in
Sikkim has helped in empowerment of Sikkimese people through education,
healthcare and creation of infrastructure. It is for us and particularly
our younger generation to ensure that we do not create such layers of
life in our society where wealth gets concentrated in the hands of a few
and the majority are denied economic opportunities, he said. The
Governor during his address appreciated the schemes of the government
for the upliftment of the people and the society and made a special
mention to the Chief Minister’s Meritorious Scholorship Programme, CATCH
and 10 minutes to Earth which he said are symbolic to the steps taken by
the State Government on education, health and environment. He was also
quite appreciative to the gathering of public servants assembled in the
Chintan Bhawan in the State Day Celebration and added that this shows
that the earthquake has not shattered the zeal and enthusiasm of the
Sikkimese people towards the development of the state. His Excellency
also congratulated the receipients of the civilian awards and asked them
to continue their service towards the people and society and greeted the
people of Sikkim on the auspious occasion.
The Chief Minister during his address talked about the evolution of the
democratic movement in the state and remembered the leaders who had
their role in the democratic movement of the state. Further added he
said that the state of Sikkim is reaping the fruits of democratic
divident in the name of development which has been established in the
state. The Chief Minister in his address also thanked the central
leadership for the support and cooperation towards the state. (Please
see the full text of the speech of the Chief Minister which is
attached). Chief Minister Chamling also announced Shri Sonam Tsering
Bhutia the first democratic soldier of the state who formed the Sikkim
Congress party for the democratic government in Sikkim.
The Chief Secretary in his welcome address said that the State Day
celebration is the celebration of democracy and its success in the
state.
Earlier, His Excellency the Governor of Sikkim and the Chief Minister of
Sikkim offered garland to the statue of LD Kazi in front of the Chintan
Bhawan.
The Receipents of the Sikkim Sewa Ratna are 1. Shri B B Gooroong, Former
Chief Minister
2.Shri Sancha Man Limboo, Former Chief Minister 3. Shri C D Rai,
Journalist 4. Dr. Trilochan Singh, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi
5. Shri T T Dorjee, Former Chief Secretary 6. Ms. Kipu Tshering Lepcha,
Social Worker Receipents of Sikkim Khel Ratna 1. Shri Bhaichung
Bhutia, Football 2. Sri Tarundeep Rai, Archery 3. Ms. Phul Maya Tamang,
Mountaineering. Receipents of Sikkim Sewa Samman- 1. Shri L B Chettri,
Engineer 2. Shri Lhendup Lepcha, Engineer 3. Shri Tar Tshering Lepcha,
Engineer 4. Shri A Karthok, Civil Servant 5. Smt. Chemjey Doma Bhutia,
Social Work 6. Smt. Anita Bhujel, Nurse 7. Shri Kundanmul Sarda,
Businessman 8. Smt. Santosh Nirash, Journalist Reciepents of Sikkim
Khel Samman 1. Shri Jaslall Pradhan, Boxing 2. Shri Trilok Subba,
Tae Kyondo 3. Shri Chungda Sherpa, Archery .Reciepents of Sikkim Udhyog
Samman 1. Shri Motilall Lakhotia 2. Shri Jagat Pd. Sharma .Reciepents
of Sikkim Sahitya Samman 1. Shri Jas Raj Subba 2. Dr.(Smt) Puspa
Sharma. Receipent of Sikkim Sangeet Samman 1. Ms. Shanti Thatal.
Receipents of Sikkim Kala Samman.1.Shri Uttam Pradhan 2. Shri B B Rai.
Receipents of Sikkim Siksha Samman.1. Shri Kul Bahadur Rai. Reciepent of
Sikkim Krishi Samman, 1.Shri Kailash Rana Mangar
Sakewa, the Great Festival of Kirat Rai observed
Chemchey May 14: “Humanity
and Honesty, they’re most important religion and the faith one can
follow” This was the message of the Chief Minister Mr. Pawan Chamling on
the auspicious occasion of Sakewa Festival.
Organized by North East Zone Cultural Center Dimapur and Cultural
Affairs & Heritage Department, Government of Sikkim, at the courtyard of
“Feel Good School”. Indian Himalayan Center for Adventure & Ecotourism (IHCAE)
here in Chemchey, South Sikkim.
The Sakewa festival was celebrated with pageantry and passion, during
the occasion the Chief Minister Mr. Chamling along with Mrs. Tika Maya
Chamling also inaugurated newly built “Sakung Saya Mankhim” (Place of
worship of the Rai community) in Chemchey, and offered their prayers in
the Mankhim.
The main function which was held in the courtyard of IHCAE saw the Chief
Guest, Chief Minister, Mr. Pawan Chamling, host of other dignitaries and
general public entertained by the cultural extravaganza, which included
the traditional Rai dance “Sili”, modern and contemporary Rai dances,
songs and bhajans presented by the locals.
Artists from the neighboring nation of Nepal who were present for the 2nd year
running in South Sikkim for the festival also entertained the guests
with their songs and bhajans.
Speaking on the occasion Mr. Chamling urged all the association of
different castes and creeds to protect and preserve peace and harmony
which prevailed in the state and also protect the hallmark of Sikkim,
which is “Unity in Diversity”.
Taking Collective responsibility and contributions from everyone is of
utmost importance, in order to preserve the peaceful environment,
religious harmony and accord in the state, Mr. Chamling stressed.
Further he appealed to all the associations to usher and guide the youth
and the younger generations of Sikkim, towards taking advantages of all
the world class opportunities which the government has brought in the
state, while making them skilled and self-reliant individuals.
Earlier during the function the Chief Minister also released Musical
albums by Mr. Narayan Rai, Mr. B.B Rokdung, a book by Mr. Padam Rai
titled “Nepali Rai Saral Wakya”, and the Souvenir of Sakewa.
Mr. Chamling also felicitated the artists who presented the cultural
show, as well as the ones from the neighboring nation of Nepal, who were
especially invited for the occasion,
Mr. Pem Tshering Sherpa the contractor, who constructed Sakung Saya
Mankhim in Chemchey, was also presented with letter of appreciation, by
the Chief Minister.
Mr. Gagan Rai President of Sakewa Celebration Committee earlier welcomed
the guest with his welcome note.
Sikkim Spring Carnival 2012
Gangtok, 11th May: The Chief Minister of
Sikkim Pawan Chamling inaugurated the five days long Sikkim Spring
Carnival 2012 and Military Tatoo today at a function held at Paljor
Stadium, Gangtok. With this the Spring Carnival organized by the Tourism
and Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim to woo the tourists
started all round the state.
The inaugural function at the Paljor Stadium, Gangtok saw various
adventurous programmes from the 17 Mountain Division of the Indian Army.
The programme included fly past by the Helicopters, bhangra dance,
khukri display, dog show, kalari payattu, malkhamb and band display.
Inaugurating the Carnival the Chief Minister while addressing the
gathering of public representatives, army personnel, tourists, students,
local gentry and officers from state administration talked about the
various initiatives taken by the state government to project Sikkim as a
repeated cliental destination.(Please see the full text of the speech of
the Chief Minister which is attached herewith)
The GOC, 17 Mt Division V.N. Prasad in his address expressed his
happiness in being associated with the civil administration of the state
government in this mega event. Such joint venture will bring a bond
between the army and the people of the state which will be of great help
for the protection of the country.
The Chief Minister during entire day visited the various other programme
sites organised in view of the Spring Carnival in and around Gangtok.
After the completion of the inaugural function at Paljor Stadium, the
Chief Minister visited the Directorate of Handlooms and Handicrafts
complex and inaugurated and visited the exhibition on ethnic bamboo
products cum live demonstration by rural artisians from all round the
state. The exhibition at the DHH complex also included unique tools and
equipments used by the Lepcha tribe in their daily lives vis-à-vis
hunting, fishing, musical instruments as well as daily household kits
made up of bamboos and stinging nettle. The exhibition highlighted and
show cased the magnificient and languishing traditional arts and craft
of the state. The exhibition was also supported by various departments
like Forest, Tourism, Commerce and Industries, Horticulture, SRDA and
various NGO’s.
Thereafter, the Chief Minister proceeded towards White Memorial Hall
where he inaugurated the Buddhist art of Butter Sculpture and Sand
Mandala exhibited by Tourism and Civil Aviation Department and Photo
exhibition by Information and Public Relations department of the State
government. He also flagged off the seven days Mountain Biking
expedition to Gurudongmar consisting of twelve participants including
one from Norway at Ridge Park and inaugurated the newly beautified Ridge
Park. The Chief Minister along with other dignitaries visited various
stalls of the ethnic communities of the state showcasing traditions and
culture.
Five National Award
for Sikkim on Panchyati Raj
Gangtok, April 25:
Sikkim
bagged five prestigious national awards in the function in the following
categories: (1)
Award for Panchayati Raj by the State of Sikkim with
a cash prize of Rs 1.00 Crore received by
Minister of Rural Management and Development Department
Shri C. B. Karki at a function in New Delhi.
(2) Best
Performing District Panchayat Award by
South District Zilla Panchayat with a cash prize of
25.00 Lakhs received by Shri B.M. Rai, Zilla Adhyaksha, South
District (3) Rashtriya Gaurav Gram Sabha
Award for Best
Gram Sabhas by 26 Sangadorjee Gram Panchayat , West Sikkim with a cash
prize of Rs.
5.00 Lakhs received by Shri B.B. Chamling, Panchayat Sabhapati,
Sangadorjee Gram Panchayat Unit
(4) Best
Performing Gram Panchayat Award by
8-Aritar Gram Panchayat, East Sikkim with a cash prize
of Rs 3.00 Lakhs received by Shri Dhiren Gurung, Panchayat
Sabhapati, Aritar Gram Panchayat Unit
(5) Best
Performing Gram Panchayat Award by
6-Gerethang Gram Panchayat, West Sikkim with a cash
prize of Rs 3.00 Lakhs received by Shri Laxmi PD. Sharma ,
Panchayat Sachiva, Gerethang Gram
Panchayat Unit.
Union govt has ranked the sikkim state as best state in
the country in the category of smaller states
for its outstanding performance in
strengthening and developing the panchayati raj institutions in the
state. Union Rural Development Minister Sh Jai
Ram Ramesh and Union Minister of Panchayati
Raj and Tribal Development Sh V.Kishore Chandra Deo today
presented ( Panchayat empowernment and incentivising scheme
award) PEAIS 2011-12 award to Sh C.B.Karki
Sikkim Rural Management and Development
Department Minister during national conference to celebrate the national
panchayat raj day function in vigyan bhawan new delhi today .
Sikkim bagged the five prestigious national awards in
the function and state was awarded Rs 1.36
crore rupees awards by the union govt .Sh B.M.
Rai Distt President Zila Parishad south district was presented best
performing distt award in the function . Sh B B Chamling gram
panchayat unit sanga dorjee was presented
rashtriya gaurav gram sabha award .Sh laxmi
prasad sharma panchayat sachiv gerethang was presented best gram
panchayat unit west district and Sh Dhiren Gurung panchayat
sabhapati gram panchayat unit Aritar east
district was presented awards by Union
Rural Development Minister Sh Jai Ram Ramesh and Union
Minister of Panchayati Raj and Tribal
Development Sh V.Kishore Chandra Deo in vigyan
bhawan new delhi today .
Sikkim Rural Management and Development Department
Minister Sh C.B.Karki said that sikkim will be
developed as " Switzerland of the East"by developing the village of the
sikkim on the the lines of the rural areas of
the switzerland .He said that state govt has prepared a comprehensive
and holistic planning and budgeting framework in the form of
"Village Development Action Plan " with the
active assistance of Professor Bernard Dafflon
Professor of the University of Fribourg ,Switzerland to achieve
this objective by further strengthening the decentralisation and
empowerment programmes . He said that a pilot village
development action plan for Aritar Gram
Panchayat Unit in east district has been prepared to
realise the dream of the state govt and added that Aritar Gram
Panchayat unit has been awarded the national
award for its achievements in this regards .He
said that 70%of the state budget is provided for the
development of the rural areas of the state for overall growth
of the
areas .He said that state govt has ambitious plans to
achieve "Poverty free Sikkim" by the year
2015 by attaching highest priority to the successful
implementations of anti poverty programmes and improving the
quality and delivery of public services to
increase rural prosperity in the state . He
said that state govt has provided substantial budgetary allocations to
all 165 gram panchayat units and 4 zilla
panchayats in the state and various govt
institutions have been brought under the administrative controls of
the gram panchayats units to bring transparency and
accountablility in govt schemes by giving
equal opportunity to decision making process in all
development activities of the village .He said that 145
gram panchayat units have their own state of
art Gram Panchayat Kendras fitted with
computers , village libraries and other amenities and rest 20 units will
be equipped with the same facilities very
shortly .He said that Panchayat Mahila Evam
Yuva Shakti Abhiyan (PMEYSA) is organising awarness programmes
on various social issues like HIV/AIDS, Legal Aid, Education and
Child Right etc and conferences will be
organised to discuss the issues affecting
women representative and youths under panchayati raj .He said
that capacity building trainings have been imparted to all
panchayat sabhapatis, sachivas and rural
development assistants besides exposure visits
from time to time
Namchi Chardham became the most visited tourism spot within a short
period in Sikkim
Namchi: As
expected “Siddesvara Dham” popularly known as Char Dham here in Namchi,
South Sikkim has become a huge hit with the locals as well as the people
from the nation and international arena.
It has not only put the small Himalayan State of Sikkim
in international attention for right reasons, due to this pilgrimage
tourism spot which has become highly popular in short period of time,
but also the small town of Namchi.
While speaking to Mr. Depen
Sharma, Administrator, Siddesvara Dham, he informed that since 19th
November to 31st December, 2011 the total number of local, National and
international (from countries like Thailand, Cambodia, Norway and Nepal
and Bhutan) visitors who visited the Siddesvara Dham
have swollen up to 41,068.
Total Vehicle which entered this Pilgrimage spot has
been: 6,413, Total amount collected: Rs 2, 14,910/- Total Amount Deposited: Rs 1, 67,739/ and
Total Expenditure: Rs 47,171/-
He further informed that the collected amount is solely
from the parking charges, selling of Tea and coffee and the service
charge from the Cloakroom as visitors keeps their belongings in the
cloakroom.
The cloakroom charge is not mandatory, as it is charged
only when the visitors wishes to keep their paraphernalia in the
cloakroom
No entry fee is levied for anyone as we’re in the initial
stages of the operation, he informed. Mr. Sharma also added that with the minor works that will
be completed within this month and the handing over of the Dham to the
Trust will be completed by the end of this month
Justice Permod Kohli sworn in as the Chief Justice of the High
Court of Sikkim
Gangtok, 12th December:
Justice Permod Kohli was formally sworn in as the Chief Justice of the
High Court of Sikkim today. The Oath of Office was administered by HE
the Governor of Sikkim Shri Balmiki Prasad Singh at Ashirwad Hall, Raj
Bhawan, Gangtok.
Born
on 1st of
March 1951 at Border town of Rajouri (Jammu and Kashmir), Justice Kohli
after graduation from GGM Science College, Jammu, secured Degree of Law
from University of Jammu in the year 1972. He joined the Bar at Jammu on
12thOctober 1972 and later on was
appointed as Additional Advocate General of the State during Governor’s
Rule in the year 1990 and took over as the Advocate General of the State
in December 1990. He
continued as Advocate General up to January 1992 and was designated as
Senior Advocate in April 1991. He represented the state before the Jammu
and Kashmir Delimitation Commission and appeared on behalf of the state
for approval of ban imposed by the State Government on 5 militant
organizations in the State of Jammu and Kashmir. Justice Kohli also
represented the State of Jammu and Kashmir to approve the ban imposed by
the Government of India against Jammu & Kashmir Liberation Front (a
militant organization) under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act,
1967, before the Tribunal constituted by the Government of India headed
by Hon’ble Justice Arun Bahadur Saharya, the then Judge of the Delhi
High Court. He
has also remained Advisor to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board and
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University. He was appointed Additional Judge of
the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir on 7th January
2003 and as permanent Judge on 3rd January
2005 and worked in this capacity upto 28th April
2006. Later
he was transferred to Jharkhand High Court, Ranchi and took the oath on
4th May
2006. Justice
Kohli was transferred to Punjab and Haryana High Court and took oath on
10th May
2007. Prior
to his transfer as Chief Justice of High Court of Sikkim Justice Kohli
was serving at Punjab and Haryana High Court.The Oath Ceremony was
witnessed by the Chief Minister of Sikkim Shri Pawan Chamling along with
host of other dignitaries.
Details of Earthquake in Sikkim
Gangtok, 28 November: (IPR): An earthquake of 6.8 magnitude occurred on 18th of
September 2011 at 6.11
p.m. IST with its epicenter in Sikkim-Nepal border Region. The focal
depth of this earthquake was at 20kms (approx.) below the surface of the
earth and was originated in the Kanchandzonga lineament area located
within 27° 74' North latitude and 88°113' East longitude. A series of
aftershocks were felt with the strongest having 5.3 magnitude at 6.42
p.m. on the same day. Sikkim falls under zone IV /V in the seismic
zonation map of India. This is due to the movement along, the thrust or
fault environment in Sikkim and the adjoining region. The major
thrust/faults existing in the region are Main Boundary Thrust (MBT),
main Central Thrust(MCT), Teesta lineament, Kanchandzonga lineament,
Sikkip Thrust etc. Any energy created out of the volcanic activities in
the Mid-oceanic ridges flowing along subsurface towards this region will
try to, get released through these weak openings of rocks i.e., through
thrust or faults which are generally termed as lineaments.
The earthquake of 18th September
2011 caused loss of 60 lives in Sikkim and damaged properties of the
people in form of house collapse, loss of cattle and agricultural land
due to landslides or flash floods etc. In the event of such, the Sikkim
State Disaster Management Authority headed by Hon'ble Chief Minister as
Chairman' called for a meeting and took information of the situation.
North district of Sikkim was badly hit as it was closest to the
epicenter followed by other districts where there were cases of loss of
human life and damage to the property.
The SSDMA, through its State Executive
Committee immediately started the rescue and relief works. National
Disaster Rescue Force from Kolkata and other places were flown to
different affected areas for rescue and relief works. Army, ITBP, Police
and other forces, local public and NGO's also joined the operation. The
injured were brought to the hospitals and were given treatment. Road
networks all over the state and in particularly Lachung, Lachen and
Dzongu of North districts were badly damaged. There was absolute failure
of communication network. Power failed, water supply was disrupted. Lots
of official buildings were damaged including the main Secretariat at
Gangtok which made the government difficult to operate for rescue,
relief and rehabilitation works. The earthquake was later followed by
heavy rains. The weather, rumors, loss of road and communication
networks was making everything difficult.
Under such circumstances, the Government held
emergency meetings regularly and took prompt action. Contacts were made
to the Central Government, Army, Air force, Pawan Hans and Teesta Urja
Choppers started dropping necessary food, supplies, medicine, relief
items and shelters to the highly affected areas. Relief Camps were set
up in every affected areas. There was not a single case where anyone was
not provided with food, medicines or other essential items. Enough funds
for handling the rescue and rehabilitation activity was provided to
DC's, SDM's, BDO's, Municipal bodies, Gram Panchayat Units and to
Dzumsas by the Government. Subsequently, funds were provided to various
departments to restore water supply, power and for carrying out
necessary activities to come out of the prevailing situation. The prompt
response of the Government to the grim situation yielded very positive
result on account of which road communication, power and water supply
and other public utility services could be restored in record time. The
Hon’ble Chief Minister as
the Head of both the Government and the State Disaster Management
Authority, himself monitored the relief operations and in this context
toured all over the state to extend all possible help to the affected
people. In comparison to similar situation faced by the people in
various parts of the country in the past, the handling of the situation
in the state was with more humanitarian and functioned in the most
professional manner. This was endorsed by Shri Rahul Gandhi, home
Minister and the Hon'ble Prime Minister.
In Sikkim, four (4) categories of rates were
approved as against only three (3) rates of ex gratia relief provided
under Government of India norms,
Where under ex gratia for collapsed houses/
building released was Rs. 50,000/- against Rs 35,000/ -as per Government
of India norms. Similarly, in case of death, the State Government
released ex gratia of Rs 5 Lakhs against Rs 1 lakh under the norms. A
policy decision was also taken to construct one floor, RCC structure
whose houses were totally damaged.
A Central team and nine other independent
organizations made an assessment of damage caused due to 18th September,
2011, earthquake surveyed the different affected areas for recommending
funds for relief and reconstruction works along with the district
officials. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for re-construction works
are prepared and are submitted to the Central government for providing
funds. The funds under State Disaster Response Fund have since been·
released and funds from the Government of India is awaited to the tune
of Rs.50.00 crores. Even though, Hon'ble Prime Minister has announced a
package of Rs 1000 Crores during his visit to the state, no fund has
been released on this account by the Government of India as on date. The
state has been consistently following up.
Pilgrimage cum Cultural Centre at Solophok, South Sikkim
To be Inaugurated.
G angtok,
November 7: The construction of the Pilgrimage-cum-Cultural Centre
at Solophok, 5 kilometre away from Namchi Bazar, South Sikkim is being
inaugurated on 9 November, the construction of which is completed now.In accordance with the concept, vision and the exemplary initiative of
our Honourable Chief Minister Dr. Pawan Chamling, the Government is
endeavoring to promote “Rural Village, Eco friendly and Religious
Tourism.” The unparalleled beauty of the State and very friendly and
hospitable people are our competitive and comparative advantage. The
construction of the Pilgrimage-cum-Cultural Centre at Solophok aims at
promoting Religious Tourism, coupled with Village and Eco tourism, and
is also aimed at providing immense income generation avenues and
opportunities through economic spin –off. Once completed this will be a
major hub for pilgrims and tourist visiting Sikkim.
The Government has envisioned in establishing a unique
Pilgrim Centre with a 108 feet tall statue of Lord Shiva on the Solophok
hill. Apart from the ground-scaled Shiva statue, this Pilgrim Centre
would also provide replicas of the twelve Jyotirlingas, to offer one
platform for Shiva devotees.
In Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Shiva, after
loosing Sati in Agnikund, had gone into seclusion and become a hunter in
the forests of Sikkim. There is also a mention in Mahabharata that
during Arjuna’s exile, he had fought over hunting a wild pig, with Lord
Shiva incarnated as Kirateshwar in Indrakeel (Present Sikkim).
Therefore, in this hunter incarnation he is locally worshipped by the
people of Sikkim as Lord Kirateshwar. A statue of 18 feet height of Lord
Kirateshwar has also been proposed as the part of the complex.
In order to attain Moksha, the Hindu belief is to perform pilgrimage to
all the existing four Dhams. Thereby, replicas of these four Dhams,
namely Badrinath, Jaganath and Dwarka dedicated to Lord Vishnu and
Rameshwar, dedicated to Lord Shiva are also being constructed.
The pilgrim centre is being constructed on top of the Solophok Hill in
South Sikkim which is about 5 kilometers from Namchi town. It has an
acquired area of 29.95 Ha of land. The built up complex would cover an
area of approximately 25 acres and is accessible by a memorable road.
The profile of the hill suggested that the main Shiva
complex with the main statue be placed at the highest commanding point
in the west direction and facing east (almost). This 108 ft high statue
of Lord Shiva (in a sitting posture) will be the focus of attraction
encircled by the twelve Jyotirlingas. The entire complex is divided into
four main elements, namely (1) Shiva Statue with 12 Jyotirlingas, (2)
Four Dhams, (3) Sai Baba Temple and (4) Kirateshwar statue.
Besides, it is also proposed to construct, Yatri Niwas, Guest House,
Security Block, Shops, Sewerage Treatment Plant, Foot Path, statues of
Religious deities, Water Reservoirs, Pavilion Covering, Fire fighting,
Electrical & Plumbing Paraphernalia, Auditorium Furnishing, Art works,
Movie Making, Audio Visuals, LCD screen display, Kiosks in the complex
& TVs in yatri Niwas, surround sound effects engulfing the entire
complex, construction of Accommodation for approximately 40 persons,
service workers & staff. The entire area shall under go landscaping,
tree plantation and Gardening complete. As on date the entire cost of
the project today stands at Rs.99.56 Crore.
This pilgrimage centre has been dedicated and designed to
place Sikkim in the very conscience, heart and minds of the citizens of
India and beyond. Apart from providing a unique religious and cultural
ambience, the Pilgrimage-cum-Cultural Centre established on a grand
scale hereafter ought to be a tourist attraction at the National as well
as International level. The existing linkages have been explored and
the tourist activities targeted are Pilgrimage, cultural activities,
seminars, religious discourses, nature study and passive
recreation. The
construction activity itself has benefited the people of the State, and
will invariably improve at large the socio economic condition of the
people in the state. It will undoubtedly provide immense income
generation avenues and opportunities through economic spin-off on
completion. The project conceived by the Government shall prove to be
manna from the heavens, where upon it will enhance the economic capacity
of the people.
During construction every attempt is being made to protect, preserve and
promote the beautiful landscape of this Solophok Hill and all steps will
be taken to maintain the serenity and harmony of the proposed site where
nature is in its pristine perfection.
The Pilgrimage cum cultural centre at Solophok, South Sikkim is being
inaugurated on8th of November 2011. The construction of the
chardham and the statue of Lord Shiva was started on February 13, 2005
and completed on October 30,2011. The Total sanctioned cost of the
centre is Rs 99.56 crores.
Government of Sikkim appeals to
help the victim of earthquake
A massive earthquake of 6.8 in magnitude jolted Sikkim at
6.10 pm on 18th sept, 2011 with epicenter in North Sikkim. This
earthquake has resulted in massive disruption to human life, houses,
infrastructure, roads and communication network in the State.
2. Individuals/organizations interested in coming forward to help the
people in distress through cash contributions may kindly deposit the
amount in the following bank account nos., which have been opened for
Chief Minister’s Relief Fund:-
i) Central Bank of India, Gangtok Chief Minister’s relief fund a/c no.
3143635947, CBI Main Branch (for contributions made from outside the
State).
ii) State Bank of Sikkim, Gangtok, Chief Minister’s Relief Fund current
a/c 464, SBS Main Branch for contributions received within the State).
3. The non-perishable relief material/ equipments may be dispatched to
Shri B.K. Kharel, Secretary, Land revenue-cum- and Relief Commissioner,
Government of Sikkim (Contact nos.03592-202664 (o), 03592-202932 (F),
09433159460 (M).
4. The office of the Resident Commissioner, New Delhi may also be
approached for delivery of these things at Delhi for their onward
dispatch to Sikkim.
Shri Arvind Kumar, Principal resident Commissioner
Government of Sikkim, Sikkim House,12 Panchsheel Marg,Chanakyapuri, New
Delh-110021, Mobile No. 99688 46087,Office Nos.
26115013/26113747/26883026
1. No contributions may be made in cash to any
individuals/organizations.
More than 50 persons feared dead, Rescue operation in full swing, many
buildings badly damaged
Gangtok:20th September(Bijay
Bantawa): Approximately 50 persons have been feared death due to
earthquake 6.9 on the ritcher scale on last
Sunday. While visiting from Siliguri to Gangtok, there are landslides at
many places, the major being at 31 A National highway near 27 mile.
pieces of stones and mud was still seen sliding from the hill. Due to
great effort of GREP and workers on the spot, the one way road was
cleared on 19th September afternoon. The rocks have slipped from the
hill near Jalipool at National Highway. Many cracks have been found
developed at Teesta River side of the National Highway, the major and
sensitive cracks have been noticed at NHway near Andheri khola between
Ronpoo and Melli. Only one way is opened for time being and there is
urgent need to construct alternative way in that particular turning
road.
Right from Ronpoo, the people were seen come out from their houses, Most
of the people left their houses and spend the night on the street or
slept on the ground under the open sky. There was mild rainfall in the
morning, however, there was no rainfall during the day and night in and
around Gangtok. Most of the buildings have been found cracked here.
It is feared that more than 50 persons have been died, so far 24 have
been confimed and about 150 persons said to be injured, some of them
sustained injury grievously or minor.
Although power supply is resumed, water supply is not normalized as
yet.The Chief Minister has announced ex gratia payment of Rs.5 lakhs per
persons for the kith and kin of the deceased persons. Rs. 50,000/- for
grievous injuries and Rs. 25,000/- for minor injuries. According to
official report,
1000 houses and buildings that have
collapsed, 1,00,000 houses and buildings have been partially damaged
.Besides the above all the major roads such as National Highway, state
highway, district highways and rural roads have been damaged
extensively. Along with the roads concrete bridges, rural bridges have
also been damaged.
The Secretariat building, Government Press building, Police Headquarter,
hospital buildings, school buildings and government buildings in all
four districts have also been extensively damaged.
SIKKIM ROCKED:EARTH QUAKE OF 6.8 UPSETS
NORMAL LIFE
Gangtok:19th September(Nita
Nita): Sikkim was rocked by an earth quake,measuring 6.8 on the ritcher
scale.The whole state ,which had plunged into darkness yesterday at6.12
pm has regained some normalcy today.After the major earth quake three
after shocks were also experienced.A high level meeting was conducted under
the Chairmanship of the CM,Mr.P.K.Chamling.
It was decided to
start relief measures and take other steps as well.According to Mr.KS
Topgay,Secretary ,IPR,the CM has directed all concerned to do the
relief work on war footing.All the MLA’s have been asked to visit
their respective constituencies to take stock of the situation and
arrange to submit a report to the Relief Committee,in consultation with
the Panchayats.The Committee constituted today,consists of one secretary
each for all the four Distts.The Committee has been authorised to take
on the spot decisions regarding the rescue & relief,when they visit the
affected areas.Death of 24 people was officially
confirmed.2 army personnel were reported to have died in North Sikkim
and one while working to restore the NH-31.100 civilians were
hospitalized till afternoon and 10 army people,for the injuries
sustained by them,due to house collapse or for being trapped in their
vehicles on the road side ,when the boulders and trees fell on them.
The CM has announced a sum of Rs.500000
each for the deceased,50 000 for the seriously injured and25000 for the
victims with minor injuries. In the meantime he has also condoled the
death of the victims of the natural calamities.Govt. has also announced relief to those
whose houses have been damaged ,along with loss of cattle and
Pigs.Rescue work is going on but the public is still in shock.
About 25 persons have been reported killed, several injured due to major
earthquake in Sikkim
Guwahati: September 19: A severe earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter
Scale rocked Sikkim yesterday evening at around 6.10 a.m. Our
correspondent from Gangtok told that there is damage of life of property
in the State. Soon after the quake, the supply of electricity stopped
and there was heavy rainfall. People came out from their houses and ran
in panic. According to unconfirmed report, there is the death of
at least 25 persons. There are injuries to about 100 persons
which may rise further after rescue operation start working in full
operation. Most of the people spent there sleepless night outside their
houses. The earthquake was so huge and the people were so scared that
they did not dare to re-enter their houses.
Chief Minister Pawan Chamling called an emergency meeting and directed
the Government machineries and disaster management team to swing into
action, but due to the cut of the electricity, disruption of road and
telecommunication, the team has not yet been able to assess actual
damages till the time of filing this news. In West Sikkim, several
building have been reported collapsed. In Ranipool too, two buildings
have been reported collapsed. The people felt
many shocks and mild tremors after the earthquake.Most of the
Gangtokians spend sleepless night and many tourists are now stranded in
various parts of Sikkim due to damage and landslides of road
communication at all.
Since most of the
correspondents of national channels and media houses operate from
Siliguri , there was no report from the spot no visual
news have been so far telecasted from any national channel
till morning. Whatever the news coming out, it is solely based and
depended on the telephone only while most of the tele-services too are
now not functioning due to power failure. Several buildings in and
around Gangtok, North Sikkim, West Sikkim, Namchi , South Sikkim have
been cracked due to this major earthquake. The area of Mangan in North
Sikkim, , was reportedly the worst hit. According to the report,
the epicenter of the quake was 64 km from Gangtok in Sikkim, causing
major damages in the area.
According to confirmed report, seven people have been killed in Sikkim
and five people are reported dead in Nepal. Four persons were also
reported dead in Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri and Siliguri in West Bengal. Two
Army personnel were also killed in the earthquake in Sikkim.
Two to three army vehicles including one bus with army personnel was
missing. There has been substantial damage to Army buildings in the area
around Sikkim.
The casualty figures are expected to rise as reports from the smaller
villages and towns of Sikkim pour in.
According to Army sources , four landslides have been confirmed. The
Centre rushed teams of the national disaster response forces. About 400
personnel and equipment were being flown in to Bagdogra and will proceed
on to Gangtok by road.
The earthquake struck on Sunday at 6:10 PM and tremors were felt in many
parts of Bihar including the state capital, Patna, West Bengal and Uttar
Pradesh also. Mild tremors were also felt in Delhi and other parts of
North India.
Aftershocks measuring 6.1 and 5.3 on the Richter Scale were also felt
around Sikkim 20 minutes after the earthquake.
Arvind Kumar, Principal Resident Commissioner of Sikkim, said that there
was excessive damage in the northern parts of Sikkim. He also said that
the rescue operations had started in the area.
There were also reports of landslides following the earthquake in areas
around Sikkim and also Darjeeling. Two major landslides have been
reported from Sikkim's capital, Gangtok cutting off the Naitonal
Highway. Several buildings have also been damaged in Gangtok.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also spoke to the Sikkim Chief Minister
and offered all help. The Prime Minister also directed Cabinet Secretary
Ajit Seth to call for an emergency meeting.
There were reports of damages from Bihar and West Bengal too. Two
buildings collapsed in Katihar in Bihar. The NTPC power plant in
Kahalgaon in Bihar has also been shut down because of the earthquake
following which North Bihar was under power crisis.
Severe damage is reported in areas of Nepal adjoining Sikkim. Parts of
the wall of the British Embassy in Nepal have collapsed due to the
earthquake in Sikkim.
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police has launched search and rescue operations
in Pegong area of north Sikkim which has been "badly affected" with two
ITBP buildings also collapsing after the state was rocked by the
earthquake.
One month Imprisonment of Former Chief
Minster Bhandari ends
Gangtok September 11(Nandu Dutraj): The one month jail imprisonment term
of former Chie Minister N.B. Bhandari ended on September 10 in hospital.
It may be mentioned here that
Former Chief Minister N.B.Bhandari, who has been sentenced
to jail for a month, had been referred to super
specialty hospital by a
team of doctors of STNM hospital here. He was taken to Super-specialty
hospital at Gurgoan from Bagdogra airport, accompanied by a doctor of
STNM hoptal and two police officers.
Former CM Bhandari is suffering from multiple diseases like cardiac
attack, diabetics, hypertension etc. He was admitted in STNM hospital
the same day, on August 10, when he was sentenced to jail after he
suffered health complications.
After being convicted in
rural water supply scheme of 1984, the former chief Minister of Sikkim
Nar Bahadur Bhandari was gone towards the Rongey jail in a police van.After
being reached to the jail, he had complained of chest pains and was brought
back to STNM Hospital in another hour.
Acting
Chief Justice S.P. Wangdi had upheld the verdict of a CBI on the
corruption case of water supply case against him, however, he has been
acquitted from Primula Cottage case. The judge, Sonam P. Wangdi, while
delivering his verdict commuted the six-month jail sentence passed by
the trial court in 2008 to a month. The Sikkim High court has directed
Bhandari and others to surrender before the special judge under
Prevention of Corruption Act on August 10. He had reached the court with
his followers and after nearly two hours and more, Bhandari went out of the court
in a Sikkim police car for the mandatory health checkup before being
sent to the Rongey jail.
It
is learnt that the police on duty for Bhandari has been removed from the
hospital and Bhandari will be there for another ten to 15 days for the
treatment.
Chhatrey
Subba Acquitted after 11 years of confinement in the Jail-supporters
cheer up his release
Siliguri 9th September: After
eleven years of confinement and trial after trial Chattrey Subba was
ultimately acquitted by Jalpaiguri’s fast tract court from the case on
the attack of the life of then Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council(DGHC) and
Gorkha National Liberation Front ( GNLF) Chief Subash Ghishingh.
Chattrey Subba was the lieutenant and trusted man of Ghishing during
Gorkhaland agitation in 1986-87 and he was the chief of Gorkha volunteer
cell. Later on, when Gorkhaland, a separate state was not created, the
difference between him and Subash Ghishing grew up and he formed the
Gorkhaland Liberation Organisation (GLO) demanding Gorkhaland, a
separate state. By then, the incident of fatal attack on the life of
Subash Ghishing took place..
Ghishing had survived bullet wounds on his head after being shot at Sat
Ghumti near Chilauneydhura in between Pankhabari in Kurseong on February
10, 2001. Ghishing was returning Darjeeling from Delhi on the review of
DGHC accord then.
The police had arrested Subba in 2001 from Indo-Nepal border for his
alleged involvement in attempt on the life of Subash Ghisingh.
Chhatrey Subba, was framed and charge-sheeted a prime accused behind
the attempt on the life of DGHC Chief Ghising in 2001.
Likewise many other persons were arrested by the police in this case,
but no one was proved culprit.
Apart from him, other five persons Shekar Dewan, Gunge Lama, Shyam
Bahadur Karki, Kumar Chettri and Bijoy Chettri accused in the case were
also set free by the court.
The supporters of Chhatrey Subba cheered up the acquittal of him.
The various parties of the hill like CPRM, Gorkha Janamukti Morcha
others too welcomed the release of Chhatrey Subba. While being released
from the court, Chhatrey Subba expressed his gratitude to the present
Government of West Bengal and Mahashweta Devi for taking steps to
release him from the jail. Talking to media persons; he expressed his
happiness over his acquittal and said that he wanted to take rest for
some time in his house. He however, did not disclose his immediate plan
to join any politcal party. Subba’s advocate Nripen Das while speaking
to media persons expressed that “the Government imprisoned him for
eleven years without any fault. In these 11 years, about 71 witnesses
were appeared in the court, no one can prove the accusation, and can the
Government re-direct his eleven years of confinement? He asked.
Sikkim Population reaches 607,688 in proviso -Significant Increase in Urban populace by 13.9 % in a decade
Gangtok, July 29 ( Bijay Bantawa): The data book containing the
provisional population of Sikkim is released today here by the
Directorate of Census Operation Sikkim. Addressing the media persons
here, Dilip Kumar Dey, Joint Direcor, Assam and Sikkim said that as per
the provisional census date, the population of Sikkim by 2011 year is
reached 607,688. The provisional data is based on the total date of the
enumeration recently completed and which is under the process of
thorough examination and scanning and it will take one year more, he
added.
Further, he said that there is significant increase in the urban
populace in Sikkim which is the trend in national scenario. According to
2001 census, the urban population in Sikkim was 11.07 percent and now,
by 2011, it is 24.97 percent, a significant increase of 13.90 percent.
Asked by media persons about the increase of urban populace, he said
that this is due to rapid urbanization and the area where development
has taken place and the area which has been developed into urban area.
Asked by the media persons, he said that there may be migration of the
people from other States in the state, but while taking the enumeration
work, the national criteria for enumeration has taken care of in which
normal residency of the persons, de facto and de jure cases have been
taken into account.
He also said that as compared to other state, the male and female ration
of Sikkim is well maintained. However, the child sex ration is little
lower by 1.9 person, may be due to the sex preference or due to other
reason, it cannot be ascertained.
In literacy rate too, Sikkim has 79.82 percent literate in the rural
area and 89.92 percent literate in urban area as per the book published
by the census operation in Sikkim.(photo-Jt. Durectir Census, Assam and Sikkim, Dilip Kumar Rai, PIB Chief Sikkim C.K.Dorjee & Asstt.Director, census
M.K. Dorjee releasing the proviso data census.
Online
help for aspirants to Delhi University through
www.gorkhaparisangh.com
The
admissions into the prestigious colleges of Delhi University, to which
hundreds of students flock to every year, will begin soon. Delhi
University offers both undergraduate and post graduate courses through
its colleges and central institutions in a wide variety of
subjects. The admission process can be challenging to newcomers and
fresh aspirants, especially those who have never studied in the metros.
Almost all state student federations put up help kiosks to assist new
students in the cumbersome process of identifying colleges, getting
acquainted with cut-off marks, finding information about courses,
scholarships, fees and hostel accommodation. Students of certain
regions, especially Darjeeling-Dooars, have not been able to avail of
such help. This year, the Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh has made
arrangements to help students from these areas, as well as any others
from anywhere, who might need such help. Through the website of the
Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh, students can have any doubt cleared.
Please direct all aspirants
to access the website at
www.gorkhaparisangh.com
and submit their queries and doubts
through the
feedback form.
They must leave behind their phone numbers and email addresses for a
response to their questions. These will be answered individually by a
team headed by Prof Munish Tamang, who teaches in Delhi University. The
answers will also be featured on the website for collective benefit.
Please also help spread this
information to benefit all students who might want to study in the
capital of the country in some of the best colleges of India. (Joel Rai,
New Delhi)
|
|
|
|