A newly-constructed bailey bridge at Sangkalang collapsed, severing the connection between Mangan and the towns of Dzongu and Chungthang. …reports Asian Lite News
At least six people have been killed and 1,500 tourists stranded due to massive landslides triggered by incessant rainfall in northern Sikkim’s Mangan district, officials reported on Thursday.
A newly-constructed bailey bridge at Sangkalang collapsed, severing the connection between Mangan and the towns of Dzongu and Chungthang. The landslides have blocked roads, inundated or damaged houses, and swept away electricity poles.
Towns such as Dzongu, Chungthang, Lachen, and Lachung, known for tourist attractions like Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley, have been cut off from the rest of the country.
“Three persons each died in Pakshep and Ambhithang villages,” said Mangan District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri.
Several houses in Geythang and Nampathang were also damaged. A relief camp has been set up in Pakshep for displaced residents, Chettri added.
Chettri held a meeting with officials to assess the situation and instructed them to carry out rescue and relief operations. Mobile network services in North Sikkim were affected, and a request has been made for an SDRF team to bring rations to Mangan.
The collapsed bridge at Sangkalang was constructed after the major flood in the Teesta river in October last year. Authorities have advised stranded tourists to stay where they are until alternative road connections can be established. Efforts to construct a bridge at Phidang to restore connectivity are underway.
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, who is currently in Arunachal Pradesh, has directed local authorities to ensure a swift response to the disaster. “Efforts are underway to provide every possible support to the victims and affected families, including recovery assistance, temporary settlement, and the provision of basic needs,” Tamang said. He pledged the state government’s full support to those affected and will return to Sikkim to oversee the rescue and relief efforts personally.
Meanwhile, the Teesta river is rising, posing a threat to low-lying areas such as Singtam town. In Namchi district, the river’s surge has marooned the Melli stadium. Nearly 50 people were killed in the flash flood that hit Sikkim last October.
The SKM was a constituent of the BJP-helmed National Democratic Alliance, but the two parties had ended their partnership ahead of the April 19 election…reports Asian Lite News
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) on June 2 recorded landslide victories to retain power for their third and second successive terms, in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim respectively.
The BJP bagged 46 of the 60 seats in the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly. The party had approached the April 19 election with 10 seats won uncontested, as no other party fielded candidates against Chief Minister Pema Khandu in the Mukto constituency, his deputy Chowna Mein in Chowkham, as well as eight others.
In Sikkim, the SKM won an unprecedented 31 of the 32 seats in the State Assembly, with Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang bagging two of them – Rhenock and Soreng-Chakung. The lone winner for the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), Tenzing Norbu Lamtha, had switched over from the SKM ahead of the Assembly election after being denied a ticket.
The SKM was a constituent of the BJP-helmed National Democratic Alliance, but the two parties had ended their partnership ahead of the April 19 election.
“We are grateful to the people of Arunachal Pradesh, who voted for the developmental works under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Mr. Khandu said, after his party won five seats more than it had done in 2019.
Political observers said that Sunday’s outcome followed a pattern: the party that rules the State and at the Centre usually wins elections in Arunachal Pradesh. While the BJP did not face any anti-incumbency, it was also better organised at the grass-roots level, and faced hardly any opposition.
The Congress, which had ruled the State for more than 30 years, only managed to field candidates for 19 of the 34 seats it had intended to contest. The National People’s Party (NPP), otherwise an NDA constituent, contested 20 seats, the most after the 60 fielded by the BJP.
While the NPP won five seats –the same as in 2019 – it was only former Minister Kumar Waii who saved the Congress from a complete rout by winning the Bameng seat. The Congress had won four seats five years ago.
The remaining seats were divided among the Nationalist Congress Party (three), the regional People’s Party of Arunachal (two) and Independents (three).
Among the major losers was 77-year-old Gegong Apang, who had been Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh for more than 22 years. He had floated the Arunachal Democratic Front ahead of the election in a bid to revive his political career.
The Sikkim election was expected to be a close contest between the SKM and the SDF. Instead, it turned out to be an almost complete sweep in favour of the SKM.
Voters in the Himalayan State have been giving a second chance to regional parties since the 287-day President’s Rule in 1985. The trend began with Nar Bahadur Bhandari’s Sikkim Sangram Parishad, continued with the SDF, and now the SKM.
Apart from indicating that voters had little or no complaints against the SKM, the outcome underlined the individual-driven politics in Sikkim. “Mr. Tamang has been a popular leader, particularly because of several pro-poor schemes and government jobs given to some 25,000 youths – a big thing for a State with 4.6 lakh voters – ahead of the polls,” Amit Patro, the editor of Sikkim Express, told The Hindu.
The SDF had accused the SKM of large-scale corruption but the ruling party turned the tables after the glacial lake outburst disaster in October 2023, pointing out how the SDF’s Chamling government had put the people’s lives at risk with sub-standard hydropower projects.
Tamang is also believed to have struck a chord with the voters by denying a party ticket to his son Aditya Tamang from the Soreng-Chakung seat, although his wife contested and won the Namchi-Singhithang constituency.
“Our party worked very hard but this victory is because of the love and trust of the people we earned in the past five years. We have the next five years to give our 100 per cent for the people of Sikkim,” he said, at a gathering in Gangtok’s Paljor Stadium to celebrate the party’s victory.
Sikkim’s 2024 mandate could be the end of the road for the 73-year-old former Chief Minister and SDF’s founder-president Pawan Kumar Chamling, who lost comprehensively from two seats – Namcheybung and Poklok-Kamrang. Former ace footballer Bhaichung Bhutia, who merged his Hamro Sikkim Party with the SDF in 2023, lost the Barfung seat, his sixth electoral defeat since contesting on a Trinamool Congress ticket in 2014.
The BJP, which had 10 MLAs even without contesting the 2019 election, and the newly-floated and crowdfunded Citizen Action Party, both came a cropper too. The BJP was believed to have been done in by the fears that its victory would lead to the dilution of Article 371F that guarantees special status for Sikkim. The fear was triggered by the expansion of the definition of ‘Sikkimese’ beyond the indigenous Bhutia, Lepcha, and Nepali people, in the Finance Act, 2023.
As per the Trishakti Corps statement, the rescue mission started on October 7 and continued till Friday, October 13, 2023….reports Asian Lite News
In a daring mission conducted in North Sikkim, troops of Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps rescued 245 people stranded in the village of Rabom due to flashfloods in Sikkim, officials said on Sunday.
Trishakti Corps have been undertaking operations on a massive scale to reconnect villages cut off after the flash flood. The Army troops undertook a challenging operation through difficult terrain and reached the isolated village of Rabom.
As per the Trishakti Corps statement, the rescue mission started on October 7 and continued till Friday, October 13, 2023.
“Troops of Trishakti Corps conducted a daring rescue mission in North Sikkim from October 7th to 13th, 2023. Moving through mountainous terrain with thick jungles & undergrowth in challenging weather, the troops reached the 245 persons stranded in the village of Rabom in North Sikkim. Self-contained for operations over a long duration, the troops shared food & medical aid with the stranded people,” the Trishakti Corps handle on X posted.
It further said, “Working 24/7 under inclement weather conditions, the brave soldiers of Indian Army carved a 14.8 km route & rescued 97 workers of Kundan Hydro Power Project and 80-100 locals. The troops have created a helipad in the village, created a safe foot track & continue to assist the stranded people of Rabom, Menshithang and Chubinbin.”
Earlier an Indian Air Force statement informed that over 1700 persons have been evacuated from various flood-affected areas of Sikkim.
As per the officials, Indian Air Force’s Chinook and Mi-17 V5 helicopters continue operations in the flood-affected areas of Sikkim, with the induction of over 200 personnel to boost the relief efforts.
“The IAF helicopters have also delivered nearly 99 tonnes of relief material in the 200 sorties flown till date. Operations shall continue till the requirements exist,” the IAF officials said.
As per the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) report of October 11 at 8 PM, the death toll was registered at 37. It further said that 78 have been reported as missing.
The Lhonak glacier in the Sikkim Himalayas burst on October 3, breaching one side of the lake leading to the rise in the water levels in Teesta and inundating several areas of the state, leaving dozens dead and tourists in thousands stranded.
Sikkim suffered significant disruptions due to the recent flash floods that inflicted damage on footbridges, roads, and other infrastructure. (ANI)
Surrounded by lush greenery and alpine vegetation, Pelling is a haven of natural beauty. Its scenic landscapes and pleasant weather make sightseeing even more enchanting. Marvel at the beautiful waterfalls, especially during the end of the monsoon season, when they showcase their spectacular beauty…reports Asian Lite News
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in the northeastern region, Sikkim beckons travelers with its serene tranquility and breathtaking beauty. For those seeking solace and rejuvenation, this place offers a unique blend of natural wonders, vibrant culture, delightful amenities, and mesmerising activities.Notably, Sikkim has recently made remarkable strides by becoming the world’s first organic state, setting an example for other cities. With its expertise in adopting 100 per cent organic farming techniques and sustainable living, travelers can take pride in supporting such an eco-friendly destination. Additionally, the region’s stunning glaciers and frozen lakes add an irresistible charm to the seven sisters.
Meanwhile, Gangtok, the capital city, is renowned for its picturesque views and pleasant climate all year round. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local way of life, with a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
If you’ve been contemplating a vacation that combines both conventional and offbeat experiences, Sikkim serves as an ideal destination to unwind and bask in the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.
Embarking on an Exploration of Sikkim’s Upmarket Street
It is essential to pre-book a taxi for your road journey to Gangtok once you reach Siliguri or Bagdogra airport in West Bengal. Making this arrangement in advance ensures a hassle-free experience as you travel from the airport to Gangtok. With decent road conditions, you can relax and enjoy the journey.
Upon reaching Gangtok, check into your pre-booked hotel or accommodation. Head to the main market in Gangtok, known as MG Marg get spoiled for choice with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shopping spots once you drop off your luggage and freshen up.
Embrace Spiritual Retreats
Make your way to Rumtek Monastery, also known as Dharma Chakra Centre, which happens to be the largest monastery in Sikkim. It features a beautiful shrine temple and a monastery where monks spread the teachings of Lord Buddha worldwide. Surrounded by lush green mountains, this spiritual haven offers a serene sanctuary for travelers seeking tranquility.
For a sumptuous holiday experience, consider booking a private car charter from the range of luxury vehicles available in the city. This will allow you to indulge in comfort, luxury, and a customizable route to explore the city’s finest offerings. Immerse yourself in the local life, culture, and heritage of Sikkim, making your journey truly worthwhile.
Embark on a series of Fun Escapades
Dedicate an entire day to a road trip to Tsogmo and Nathu la Pass, which marks the border between India and Tibet-occupied China. The journey to Nathu la Pass treats you to a mesmerising view of Chumbi Valley. Situated at an altitude of 4302 meters, it boasts one of the highest motorable roads in the world, adding a thrilling element to your trip.
The calmness and tranquil beauty of Tsogmo, with its glacial lake, add an adventurous touch to your day. The snow-capped mountains provide a panoramic view of Gangtok, immersing you in a hypnotic charm. Take a trek along the lake’s shores and savor local cuisine at the small kiosks.
Enjoy a Mix of Nature, Heritage, and Adventure in Pelling
Surrounded by lush greenery and alpine vegetation, Pelling is a haven of natural beauty. Its scenic landscapes and pleasant weather make sightseeing even more enchanting. Marvel at the beautiful waterfalls, especially during the end of the monsoon season, when they showcase their spectacular beauty.
Venture to Kanchenjunga National Park, located approximately 40 kilometers from Pelling. This park offers a fantastic day trip, where you can witness the blooming rhododendrons. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to experience the archaic Singshore Bridge, the quaint Changey Waterfalls, and the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, revered by Buddhists. To make your travel more convenient, you can request a helicopter booking that connects Pelling and Gangtok.
Immerse Yourself in the Cultural and Religious Significance of Yuksom Town
No tour of Sikkim would be complete without experiencing the historical treasures and captivating monasteries while indulging in the Buddhist heritage of Yuksom town. Situated in the sub-division of West Sikkim, this unexplored historical town offers a refuge for the mind and soul of travelers. Visit attractions such as Tashiding Monastery, Dubdi Monastery, the Coronation Throne of Norbugane, Kartok Monastery, and more while indulging in shopping for unique and traditional trinkets.
Before bidding farewell and heading to Bagdogra Airport, take a day to do nothing but immerse yourself in the natural vibes surrounding you. Embark on short hikes, take a refreshing dip in the Phamrong Waterfalls, and explore the village trails, breathing in the fresh mountain air. Take a moment to delight in the melodious chirping of colorful birds before ensuring you reach the airport on time, thus avoiding any last-minute hassles.
The document emphasises the pressing need to address the disparity between the aspirations of women and youth and the job market in Sikkim….reports Asian Lite News
In a move to financially aid the Government of India’s development initiatives in the northeast region, the World Bank has announced its support for Sikkim.
The World Bank’s upcoming project, the Integrated Service Provision and Innovation for Rural Economies Program, is set to receive financing next year.
The project aims to promote economic inclusion opportunities for women and youth in the non-farm sector. With a total cost of $269.74 million, the World Bank will lend $100 million towards this endeavour.
During a recent meeting organised by the state government, Rohini Pradhan from the Planning and Development Department highlighted the project’s significance in transforming the socio-economic status of women and youth in rural areas, particularly those outside the agricultural sector.
According to World Bank’s project information document, Sikkim has achieved remarkable economic growth while prioritising sustainable development outcomes. Spanning an area of 7,096 square kilometres, the Himalayan state of Sikkim holds strategic importance within the Government of India’s Act East Policy and stands as one of the fastest-growing states economically.
The document further stated that Sikkim has experienced double-digit per capita GDP growth since FY04/05, outpacing other comparably sized northeastern states that barely registered any growth. Notably, Sikkim reduced its poverty rate from 30.9 percent (170,000 people) in FY04/05 to 8.2 percent (51,000 people) in FY11/12. The state ranks third-lowest in terms of Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) value with a decline of 0.157 between 2005-06 and 2015-16, reaching an MPI value of 0.019.
The document also highlighted a discrepancy between Sikkim’s changing economic structure and the lag in employment transformation. While sectors like manufacturing, services (particularly tourism, pharmaceuticals, and hydropower), have witnessed impressive growth rates and are crucial to the state’s economic progress, the corresponding shift in employment has lagged behind.
For instance, Sikkim observed a 1.5-fold increase in tourist arrivals between 2011 and 2017 with domestic tourism growing at an annual average rate of 10-25 percent and foreign tourist visits growing by 8 percent. The pharmaceutical sector has also attracted over forty companies with a cumulative investment of approximately US$415 million as of 2014-15.
“Each of these sectors also offers considerable potential for non-farm wage employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. Yet over 70 percent of the state’s workforce is employed in agriculture. There are significant gaps between output transformation and employment transformation, particularly for women and youth, which is likely to impede sustainable growth for the state,” the document stated.
Sikkim faces specific challenges regarding ‘female labour force participation’ (FLFP), with a high FLFP rate of 58 percent, although almost half of the women in the 15-59 age group were employed in agriculture and related occupations as compared to 20 percent of men. Urban FLFP for women stands at 34 percent, considerably lower than the rural FLFP rate of 64 percent.
While Sikkim boasts a lower unemployment rate for its youth population compared to the national average, approximately 41 percent of Sikkim’s youth are still employed in agriculture, lacking viable opportunities to transition into non-farm sectors. The youth workforce composition reveals that 28 percent of women and 13 percent of men are engaged in agricultural activities.
The document emphasises the pressing need to address the disparity between the aspirations of women and youth and the job market in Sikkim.
“The inadequacy of opportunities for skilled jobs within the state forces skilled young people to migrate in search of jobs (the out-migration rate of Sikkim is 0.020 which is the highest among all the NER states),” the document stated.
The World Bank also stated in its document that despite being a relatively small market with limited connectivity and economies of scale, Sikkim has effectively capitalised on its biodiversity, fostering income-generating activities such as community-based tourism and green jobs.
Meanwhile, the Sikkim government reportedly plans to promote economic inclusion for women and youth in emerging sectors by integrating supply- and demand-side interventions, partnering with the private sector for catalytic investments, and coordinating across government agencies.
The World Bank’s announcement to support Sikkim’s development makes Arunachal Pradesh the only state in the northeast region in not receiving support from World Bank or Asian Development Bank.
The C20 India 2023 Working Group on Sustainable and Resilient Communities – Climate, Environment and Net Zero Targets is one of the 14 Working Groups that have been formed under C20 India 2023…reports Asian Lite News
Sikkim is all set to host the Civil 20 (C20) India 2023 in the State capital on April 29 and 30. Civil 20 is a working group on sustainable and resilient communities – Climate, Environment and Net Zero targets.
The event is anticipated to gather 200 attendees from 22 nations along with many more attendees from around the world joining the conclave via online mode. The inaugural ceremony on April 29 will be graced by Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay as the chief guest, along with Land Revenue Minister Kunga Nima Lepcha, Ambassador, Uganda, AmbJoyce Kikafunda, C20 Principal Coordinator, Amb. Vijay Nambiar, who will also address the gathering. President, Amrita University and Troika Member, C20, Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri, will be presenting the felicitations. The valedictory event on April 30 will be addressed by the Governor of Sikkim Lakshman Prasad Acharya. The event will also be graced by the Ambassador of Gambia to India, Amb. Mustafa Jawara, as the guest of honour, and Minister For Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Power, Agriculture, Science & Technology, Government of Manipur Thongam Biswajit Singh.
The conclave is being organized by Amrita University (Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham), Kerala in collaboration with the Government of Sikkim. The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) and the Land Revenue and Disaster Management Department are representing the State government as co-organisers for the conclave.
C20 India Working Group Coordinator and Provost, Amrita University, Dr Maneesha Sudheer and Sikkim Land Revenue and Disaster Management department secretary Anil Raj Rai in a press conference at Gangtok on Thursday, said, “C20 India 2023 is one of the official Engagement Groups of the G20 that provides a platform for civil society organizations (CSO) around the world to voice the people’s aspirations to the world leaders at the G20’s 2023 Summit in India”.
The C20 India 2023 Working Group on Sustainable and Resilient Communities – Climate, Environment and Net Zero Targets is one of the 14 Working Groups that have been formed under C20 India 2023. The C20 conclave is a major event under India’s G20 Presidency that aims to bring out extensive dialogue and engagement with Civil Society Organizations, policymakers, representatives from government and non-governmental agencies, and academicians from around the world to understand existing global policies related to the sustainability and resilient communities and to further identify gaps and come up with innovative solutions which will then be presented to the G20 nations at the summit in September 2023.
Dr Sudheer expressed delight over the conference being held in Sikkim. She stated, “A state which is truly an example of sustainability and resilience, with the SSDMA on landslide early warning system since 2013. The conclave will provide an opportunity for people to see how Sikkim has adopted best practices and taken proactive steps to bring in climate resilience and disaster risk reduction”.
The conclave will provide an opportunity for the CSOs from all over the world to come to Sikkim and deliberate on the thematic areas of Climate Resilience & Social Justice, Environment Sustainability, Net-Zero Emission Management and Compassion Driven Approaches. The policy deliberations among a multitude of stakeholders will bring out the recommendations to be provided to the G20 leadership team, added the Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham representative.
“The conclave would bring out dialogues and deliberations to bring out the voice of CSOs to G20 leadership to address the pressing challenges of the day and urged for support from multi-stakeholders to pave the way to develop scalable models that can be adapted to multiple countries”, said Sudheer.
Sikkim Land Revenue Secretary Anil Raj Rai in his address, extended gratitude to Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay and the State government for hosting the C20 conclave in the State and thanked the Amrita University for choosing the State capital Gangtok for the event. The conclave will open an opportunity for the State to showcase its sustainable and resilient practices on the G20 map.
He further informed that the C20 conclave in the State capital would also feature training sessions on Sustainable Development & Climate Resilience and Energy Sustainability & Net Zero Targets, parallel to the plenary sessions at Chintan Bhawan, which will be largely participated by teachers and students from various schools and colleges at NB Bhandari Degree College, Tadong and Janta Bhawan, DPH.
The event intends to give stakeholders from all over the world a forum to collaborate and exchange ideas, as well as to give academics, professionals, and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) a way to participate in the G20 policy discussions. Other notable dignitaries from the G20 nations will also attend the event. International and local speakers from the government and civic society will also be present. (ANI)
Sikkim is hosting two G20 events – Business (B20) on March 16 and Startup (S20) on March 18 -19…reports Asian Lite News
Sikkim has received 52 international delegates and 50 Indian delegates including four ambassadors for the upcoming G20 meet starting from March 16, officials said.
Sikkim is hosting two G20 events – Business (B20) on March 16 and Startup (S20) on March 18 -19. Notably, all events are taking place in Gangtok.
Among the delegates, two are from China while no delegate from Russia has come for the G20 events in the State.
The focus of Sikkim is on presenting business potential in sectors such as tourism, organic farming, green energy and green industry among others.
Sikkim will be hosting b2b discussions as well as b2g discussions with the delegates that have arrived in Sikkim.
The B20 event tomorrow will take place at Chintan Bhawan in Gangtok.
Meanwhile, Sikkim CM Prem Singh Golay held a press conference on Wednesday ahead of G20 events.
The press conference had the attendance of Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay, Chief Secretary VB Pathak and CII representative Ashish Bhattacharya addressed the gathering at Samman Bhawan in Gangtok.
United Nations lauded India’s G20 Presidency for highlighting a number of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation.
Addressing the joint valedictory session of the 57th Capacity Building Programme of the Civil Servants of Bangladesh and Arunachal Pradesh, the UN Resident Coordinator Shombi Sharp said, “In fact, India’s G-20 Presidency has become SDG-20 Presidency as India is raising strong voice to close financial gaps.”
Sharp pointed out that four emerging economies — Indonesia, India, Brazil and South Africa — will be holding the G20 Presidency in a consequent manner to raise the issues of developing countries and to become the voice of the Global South after a long gap.
He said India’s G20 leadership would be followed by SDG Summit in New York after two weeks in September this year, and that this handshake will be important for the mid-term review of the DDG-17 Goals.
It may be recalled that the 17 Sustainable Development Goals were adopted as a part of the 2030 agenda by 192 United Nations member states in 2015. Some of these goals are no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, industry, innovation and infrastructure.
Sharp said the United Nations supports India’s Green Transition, as it has committed to net-zero carbon by 2070.
He further said digital transformation, low carbon economic model and women-led governance with gender equality and women empowerment are some of the key highlights of India’s high growth model. (ANI)
