Semi decomposed dead-body of middle aged woman found in Gangtok
Gangtok, Sep9 :The state of Sikkim has been gripped by sensation following the discovery of The post Semi decomposed dead-body of middle aged woman found in Gangtok appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Indian Special Forces Master High-Altitude Combat Diving in Joint Training
Gangtok, Sep 8 : Elite soldiers from the Indian Armys PARA (Special Forces) and the The post Indian Special Forces Master High-Altitude Combat Diving in Joint Training appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
North Sikkim Reopens to Tourists
Gangtok, September 7 : Additional Chief Secretary C.S. Rao announced today that North Sikkim will The post North Sikkim Reopens to Tourists appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Sikkim CM urges teachers to continue to encourage students curiosity, creativity, innovation
GANGTOK, Sept 5: Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Friday urged teachers to continue to guide students into becoming leaders and entrepreneurs, who create opportunities for others. On this Teachers Day, I extend my warmest greetings to teachers across India, with a special salute to the dedicated teachers of Sikkim, he said in a social []
GST reforms progressive step towards inclusive growth: Sikkim CM
GANGTOK, Sept 4: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Thursday said the reforms in the GST structure were a transformative initiative and a progressive step towards inclusive growth. The GST Council, comprising finance ministers from Centre and states, on Wednesday evening approved to make GST a two-tier structure of 5 and 18 per cent, []
Nepali Language Now Mandatory for Telecom Services in Sikkim
Gangtok, Sep 4 : In a significant move to improve communication accessibility for residents, Indias The post Nepali Language Now Mandatory for Telecom Services in Sikkim appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
NEW DELHI: Kohima, Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Aizawl, Gangtok, Itanagar and Mumbai have emerged as the safest cities in the country for women, while Patna, Jaipur, Faridabad, Delhi, Kolkata, Srinagar and Ranchi were ranked the lowest, according to the National Annual Report & Index on Women's Safety (NARI) 2025. The nationwide index released on Thursday, based on a survey of 12,770 women across 31 cities, placed the national safety score at 65 per cent, categorising cities as much above, above, at, elow or much below this benchmark. Kohima and other top-ranked cities were associated with stronger gender equity, civic participation, policing and women-friendly infrastructure. At the other end of the spectrum, cities like Patna and Jaipur fared poorly due to weak institutional responsiveness, patriarchal norms and gaps in urban infrastructure. Kohima, Vishakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Aizawl, Gangtok, Itanagar, Mumbai lead national safety rankings, often correlating with higher gender equity, infrastructure, policing, or civic participation while Ranchi, Srinagar, Kolkata, Delhi, Faridabad, Patna, and Jaipur scored lowest, correlating with poorer infrastructure, patriarchal norms, or weaker institutional responsiveness, the report said. Overall, six in ten women surveyed felt safe in their city, but 40 per cent still considered themselves ot so safe or unsafe. The study revealed sharp drops in perceptions of safety at night, particularly in public transport and recreational spaces. Educational institutions (86 per cent safe) especially in daylight, but safety perceptions fall sharply at night or off-campus. About 91 per cent of women reported safety, yet about half were unclear if their workplace had a POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) policy; those with such policies generally rated them as effective. Only one-fourth of women said they trusted authorities to act effectively on safety complaints. While 69 per cent said current safety efforts were somewhat adequate, over 30 per cent noted significant gaps or failures; only 65 per cent perceived real improvement over the years 2023-2024. Seven per cent of women said they experienced harassment in public spaces in 2024, with the figure doubling to 14 per cent among those under 24. Neighbourhoods (38 per cent) and public transport (29 per cent) were most often flagged as harassment hotspots. Yet, only one in three victims came forward to report the incidents. The report stressed that official crime data alone cannot reflect women's lived reality. Two out of three women do not report harassment, meaning NCRB misses the bulk of incidents, the study said, calling for integration of crime data with perception-based surveys like NARI. Launching the report, National Commission for Women (NCW) chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar said safety cannot be seen merely as a law-and-order issue but as one that affects every aspect of a woman's life whether it is her education, health, work opportunities and freedom of movement. She added that when women feel unsafe, hey limit themselves, and women limiting themselves is not only for their own development, but also for the development of the country. She emphasised that a safe environment was crucial for building a developed and inclusive India, pointing to four dimensions of women's security of physical, psychological, financial and digital nature. It is our responsibility to protect women not just from crimes on the streets but also from cybercrimes, economic discrimination and mental harassment, Rahatkar noted. Highlighting positive measures, she praised the growing presence of women police officers and female drivers in public transport as effective confidence-building steps. In many Union Territories, 33 per cent of police personnel are now women, and this has made a decisive difference in building trust, she said. She also lauded initiatives such as women's helplines, CCTV coverage in smart cities, and improved safety networks at railway stations and bus depots. At the same time, Rahatkar urged society at large to share responsibility. We often blame the system, but we must also ask what we have done. Whether it is using helplines, supporting awareness drives, or simply keeping public toilets clean, society's role is equally important, she said. The NARI index has been conceived by The NorthCap University and Jindal Global Law School and is published by the Group of Intellectuals and Academicians (GIA).
Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via Nathu La concludes with return of 48 pilgrims
GANGTOK, Aug 25: The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via Nathu La Pass in Sikkim ended with the return of the 10th batch of 48 tourists from the pilgrimage site, officials said on Monday. On their return on Sunday, the 48 pilgrims were received by Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) officials, and a valedictory function was held [] The post Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via Nathu La concludes with return of 48 pilgrims appeared first on Northlines .
Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2025 Via Sikkim Route Ends With Return Of 48 Pilgrims: Officials
GANGTOK, Aug 25: The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via Nathu La Pass in Sikkim ended with the return of the 10th batch of 48 tourists from the pilgrimage site, officials said on Monday. On their return on Sunday, the 48 pilgrims were received by Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) officials, and a valedictory function was held to mark the successful conclusion of the Kailash Manasarovar pilgrimage for 2025. STDC chairman Lukendra Rasaily said the smooth conduct of the tour by around [] The post Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2025 Via Sikkim Route Ends With Return Of 48 Pilgrims: Officials appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Sikkim: ED Raids 31 Sites, Nabs MLA in Betting Scam
HT DIGITAL GANGTOK, AUGUST 24: The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Bengaluru Zonal Office, conducted a two-day search operation on August 22 and 23 at 31 locations in India. The operations were carried out in Gangtok, Chitradurga, Bengaluru, Hubli, Jodhpur, Mumbai and Goa. The action was under the investigation against K.C. Veerendra, an MLA from the []
ED arrests Karnataka Congress MLA in 'illegal' betting case
K C Veerendra, a Karnataka Congress MLA, faces arrest by the Enforcement Directorate. The arrest occurred in Sikkim related to an alleged illegal betting scheme. Authorities seized significant assets during raids across multiple states. The seized items included cash, gold, silver, and vehicles. Veerendra was in Gangtok for a casino leasing venture.
CBSE to establish six new regional, sub-regional offices to enhance governance
NEW DELHI: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the establishment of six new Regional Offices, Centres of Excellence (CoEs), and Sub-Regional Offices to streamline its operations and improve governance of affiliated schools across the country. According to a notification issued by CBSE Secretary Himanshu Gupta, the decision was taken following the approval of the Finance Committee in December 2024, which was later ratified by the Governing Body and cleared by the Ministry of Education. The new offices are being set up in Gurugram, Lucknow, Raipur, Ranchi, Agartala, Itanagar and Gangtok. These will become fully functional between August and September 2025. Gurugram (Haryana) will cover 12 southern districts of Haryana, including Faridabad, Gurugram, Palwal and Sonipat, and is expected to function from 1 September 2025. Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) will oversee 30 districts, including Ayodhya, Etawah, Kanpur, Rae Bareli and Unnao, and will also become functional from 1 September 2025. Raipur (Chhattisgarh) will have jurisdiction across Chhattisgarh and became functional on 22 August 2025. Ranchi (Jharkhand) will cover Jharkhand and also became functional on 22 August 2025. Among the Sub-Regional Offices, Agartala (Tripura) will begin functioning from 15 September 2025. Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh) became functional on 22 August 2025, along with Gangtok (Sikkim), which also started operations on the same date. The notification stated that all schools affiliated with CBSE will now fall under the jurisdictions of these newly established offices. This move will help strengthen administrative reach, ensure better coordination with schools, and enhance educational support services across these regions, the CBSE said.
Sikkim University Student Sparks Row With 'Nepali' Remark, Taken Into Custody
A major controversy has erupted on the campus of Sikkim University in Gangtok over alleged derogatory remarks against the Nepali community and language by a student from Uttar Pradesh in a department WhatsApp group.
Sikkim University student arrested for insulting Nepali language
Gangtok: A Sikkim University student, who hailed from Uttar Pradesh, was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly making insulting remarks against the Nepali language which is widely spoken in the Himalayan state, officials said. Acting on a complaint lodged by some local students, a team from Rani Pool police station reached the university campus and took Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Is arrested model-actress Shanta a Bangladeshi spy? Police investigates
KOLKATA: Activities of Bangladeshi model and actress Shanta Pal, who has been arrested in Kolkata, are reminiscent of the activities of Jyoti Malhotra, who was arrested on suspicion of being a Pakistani spy, police sources said. Shanta lived a luxurious life as Jyoti. She too travelled to many places in India, including the Nathula Pass, near the China border in Sikkim which raised suspicion about her, a Kolkata Police official said. Jyoti Malhotra is accused of spying for Pakistan. Is Shanta doing the same for Bangladesh? We have been trying to ascertain this in the investigation, the official added. According to police sources, Shanta Pal, a Bangladeshi citizen, came to India in 2023. Since then, she has been staying here. Both her visa and passport have expired. Bangladeshi model-actress held in Kolkata with Indian documents According to police sources, after questioning Shanta and searching her social media pages, it was found that she had become a consultant for others to obtain visas to India. After the upheaval in Bangladesh last year, when the situation between India and Bangladesh made it difficult for Bangladeshi citizens to get Indian tourist visas, Shanta had advised many of them to apply for medical visas. The investigators are checking how many people took her help to get Indian medical visas. Shanta, who has been residing in India, also used to live a colourful life. According to police sources, the Bangladeshi model-actress travelled from Digha in West Bengal to Gangtok in Sikkim and posted pictures and videos on social media. She even reached the Nathula Pass near the China border to create a travel vlog. According to police sources, Shanta was promoting her tourism business through a social media page called Asan Travels Kolkata and Bangladesh. Additionally, investigators are also investigating if she took a loan from an Indian state-owned bank to open a hotel, based on her Facebook post. On Wednesday, the Kolkata Police arrested Shanta in a fraud case from the Bikramgarh area in south Kolkata. She lived there in a rented flat with her parents and husband. The police recovered an Indian voter card, PAN card, and Aadhaar cards of two addresses, one in Kolkata and the other in Burdwan, issued in her name. The police have also recovered a Bangladeshi passport and Bangladesh Airways employee card from her possession. She used to work as a cabin crew for Bangladesh Airways. An admit card for Bangladesh's secondary examination has also been found.
827 Indians evacuated from Israel; caregivers and students among returnees
NEW DELHI: After six-and-a-half years of working in Israel, Reetaraj Gurung had planned to return home to Siliguri, West Bengal, on 15 June to reunite with her husband and daughter. However, her journey was disrupted when Israel launched air strikes on Iran just two days earlier, leading to the closure of airspace over Israel, Jordan, Iran, and Iraq. Reetaraj finally made it home on Tuesday (24 June) on an evacuation flight from Jordan, facilitated by the Indian government. She had been employed as a caregiver for a 104-year-old woman in Jerusalem. Describing the situation in Israel over the past fortnight, she said: The past 12 days have been extremely tough. Whenever sirens blared in the streets, we were instructed to immediately hide in bunkers. These alarms would go off multiple times a day. If it happened during the day, I would rush with my patient in a wheelchair. But at night, I was told to just save myself. Expressing relief, she added, I feel so much at peace now. Im grateful to see my family again and thank the Indian government for bearing all expenses. They arranged buses to Jordan and a flight to Delhi. Pashi Sherpa, another caregiver from Sikkim who looks after a 32-year-old disabled man in Haifa, is still awaiting evacuation. Ive worked in Israel since 2012. I lost my husband and am supporting my two daughters alone. The last week has been terrifying. At all hours, we hear alarms and rush for shelter. My mother-in-law has passed away in Gangtok, and I hope I can return home soon, she said. According to a source at the Indian Embassy in Israel, nearly 40,000 Indians are currently residing in the country. Of these, around 20,000 work as caregivers or domestic workers, while 13,000 are employed in the construction sector. The remaining include students pursuing PhD and post-doctoral studies. The official confirmed that 827 Indians have returned to India between 2224 June via four evacuation flights under Operation Sindhu Israel, coordinated by the Ministry of External Affairs. Evacuees were transported by road to Jordan or Egypt, from where special flights were arranged. No flights were operated on Wednesday due to a ceasefire declared the previous night. This conflict is different, the source said. Unlike previous wars that affected the northern (Lebanon border) or southern (Gaza border) regions, this time even Tel Aviv has been targeted. Theres widespread panic among both Indians and Israelis. Naren Thapa, founder of the IGCI Care Foundationan NGO that supports Indian workers in Israelhighlighted the growing presence of Indians in the country. Following the Hamas attack on October 7 2023, demand for Indian workers surged. Around 10,000 construction workers and caregivers have arrived in the past two years. The Indian government is highly supportive and offers prompt assistance to anyone seeking to leave. However, not all have welcomed the deployment of Indian workers to conflict zones. Rajiv Dimri, General Secretary of the All India Central Council of Trade Unions, criticised the move: We oppose sending 12,000 Indian workers to a war-torn country like Israel to replace Palestinian labourers. The government must prioritise their safe repatriation with the same urgency shown in evacuating Indian students from Iran.
Landslides disrupt traffic on NH-10 connecting Sikkim, West Bengal; debris clearance underway
GANGTOK: Several landslides triggered by incessant rains for the last few days occurred along National Highway 10, disrupting traffic movement on the road that connects Sikkim with West Bengal, officials said on Tuesday. Roadblocks have been reported along the 52-km highway stretch, which connects Sevoke in West Bengal with Rangpo in Sikkim, causing inconvenience to travellers, they said. The roadblocks were reported from 29 Mile, Kali Jhora, Seti Jhora, Selfie Dara, Birik Dara, Likhuveer, Melli and Bhalu Khola in West Bengal's Kalimpong district, they said. Officials of the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) said operations related to the clearing of debris and restoration of the road are underway. Heavy machinery has been deployed to clear roadblocks due to multiple landslides, they said. One-way traffic movement has started in some areas. Traffic jams are inevitable as landslides continue in some areas regularly. The debris will be cleared soon as work is being carried out on war footing, an official said. Police personnel from Kalimpong district have also been deployed to regulate the traffic movement, he said. The district police have urged commuters to plan their travels according to the ground situation.
First Batch Of 33 Pilgrims Leaves For Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Via Sikkims Nathula
Gangtok, Jun 20: The first batch of 33 pilgrims and two liaison officers left for Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via Nathula in Sikkim on Friday, officials said. Governor Om Prakash Mathur flagged off the yatra at a function held at the Sino-Indian frontier in East Sikkim, they said. The function was organised by the Ministry of External Affairs. Tourism and Civil Aviation Department Additional Chief Secretary CS Rao welcomed the pilgrims on behalf of the state government and the people of [] The post First Batch Of 33 Pilgrims Leaves For Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Via Sikkims Nathula appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
First group of 36 pilgrims for Kailash Manasarovar Yatra arrives in Sikkim, moves to 17 Mile
After six years, the first group of thirty-six pilgrims for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra has reached Gangtok. They will acclimatize in the 17 Mile area before proceeding via Nathu La pass. The pilgrims will cross the India-China border on June 20. This year, seven hundred fifty Indian pilgrims are selected for the yatra.
No trace yet of Pratapgarh couple 13 days after their vehicle plunges into Teesta River
LUCKNOW: It has been 13 days since the newly-wed couple, Kaushalendra Pratap Singh, 29, and Ankita Singh, 26 from Pratapgarh went missing after the tourist vehicle in which they were travelling with 11 other passengers plunged into the swollen Teesta River in Mangan district of Sikkim. The couple's family has yet to receive any communication from the authorities. After tying the knot in May, the couple left for their honeymoon in Sikkim on May 24. They have been missing since May 29. It was later confirmed that the mini-bus they were travelling in along with other tourists had fallen into the Teesta River. Although authorities deployed divers and rescue teams, there has been no trace of the couple so far. Kaushalendras father, Sher Bahadur Singh, visited Sikkim with four of his relatives in search of the couple but returned empty-handed on Tuesday. In a state of shock and distress, they shared their ordeal with senior police and administrative officials in Pratapgarh and described the horrific sight of the Teesta River and the accident site. According to Pratapgarh SP Dr. Anil Kumar, four family members who rushed to the site soon after the incident returned home on Tuesday. The family met with senior police and administrative authorities in Gangtok and discussed the extensive search operation being carried out. The search effort involved removing rocks and debris from the Teesta River, which flows through a ravine as deep as thousands of feet. Rescue teams are continuing their search downstream to Chungthang, about eight kilometers from the accident site. Although the river's flow has returned to normal, searching among the debris remains challenging. No belongings related to the couple have been found so far. The family returned based on assurances given by the authorities. Sher Bahadur Singh, who reached Gangtok in search of his son and daughter-in-law, met two tourists who survived the accident. He informed Pratapgarh police officials that the survivors identified Kaushalendra and Ankita through their photographs, confirming they had been in the same vehicle. The vehicle was carrying 11 tourists and a driver and was returning from Chungthang to Gangtok when it lost control around 9 p.m. due to heavy rainfall. Eight tourists, including Kaushalendra and Ankita, remain untraceable. Ankita worked in the medicine department at Medanta Hospital in Lucknow. Kaushalendra, the only child of his parents, was preparing for the civil services examination in Delhi. Their honeymoon plans were finalized after their waitlisted train tickets were confirmed on May 22.
Sikkim landslide: Body of army man recovered, search underway for 5 others
GANGTOK: The body of an army man, one of the six people who went missing after a landslide hit a military camp at Chaten in north Sikkim earlier this month, was recovered on Monday in Mangan district, police said. The deceased was identified as Sainuddhin PK, a senior officer said. The search operation is underway to trace other missing persons, Mangan Superintendent of Police (SP) Sonam Detchu Bhutia said. The rescue teams have recovered the body of army man Sainudheen PK, who was among the six missing personnel after the June 1 landslide at a military camp in Chaten, the SP said. Apart from the missing persons, three army personnel had lost their lives, and four others were injured in the landslide. North Sikkim has been hit by multiple landslides triggered by heavy rain, disrupting road and telecommunication connectivity. Around 2,000 tourists had also been stranded in north Sikkim's Lachen, Lachung and Chungthang towns due to inclement weather conditions for days before being evacuated by road and air in rescue operations earlier this week.
17 more people evacuated from north Sikkim as rescue operations resume
The state government has arranged buses to transport the rescued people from the airport to Gangtok from where they would leave for their onward destinations, the official said.
63 evacuated from landslide-hit north Sikkim by helicopters, 64 others await rescue
GANGTOK: Altogether 63 stranded people, mostly tourists, were on Thursday evacuated by helicopters from Chaten in north Sikkim, which was hit by a landslide earlier this week, officials said. Sixty-four other tourists are still waiting at Chaten to be rescued by the army and local administration. The operation to rescue them was called off due to inclement weather and challenging terrains during the day, officials said. Chaten is located near Lachen, a small town in Mangan district, which is used by travellers to reach Gurudangmar Lake which is a popular tourist destination. Officials said that two MI-17 helicopters were used to evacuate 39 people from Chaten to Pakyong airport, officials said. Four other people were evacuated in a Cheetah helicopter while an MI-17 chopper made a direct journey from Bagdogra in neighbouring West Bengal to Chaten, airlifting 20 passengers, they said. Meanwhile, two MI-17 V5 helicopters are stationed at Pakyong airport for deployment in evacuation operation. State government officials have also been in continuous coordination with the armed forces to safeguard lives and provide relief to the stranded people. Three army personnel were killed, six soldiers went missing and several others were injured after a landslide hit a military camp at Chaten on the evening of June 1. Efforts are also on to find out the missing soldiers. Search for missing Lt Col, five others continues after Sikkim landslide; army battles weather, terrain in rescue ops
63 stranded tourists airlifted from landslides-hit Sikkim
Gangtok, June 5: Altogether 63 stranded tourists, including two US citizens, have been airlifted from landslides north districts Lachen and Chaten since the aerial evacuation started on June 3, official sources said on Thursday. An MI-17 helicopter transported 20 tourists, including two foreign nationals, ensuring their safe evacuation on Thursday, a revised communique said. [] The post 63 stranded tourists airlifted from landslides-hit Sikkim appeared first on Northlines .
59 tourists airlifted from north Sikkim as rescue ops resume
GANGTOK: (Jun 5) Fifty-nine tourists were brought back to Gangtok from the rain-ravaged north Sikkim on Thursday morning as the rescue operations resumed after the weather cleared, officials said. They were among the 109 tourists stranded in north Sikkims Lachung for nearly a week. Two MI-17V5 helicopters left for Chaten in north Sikkim from Pakyong airport near state capital Gangtok in the early morning after the weather cleared. While 39 tourists returned on one copter, 20 returned on another, officials [] The post 59 tourists airlifted from north Sikkim as rescue ops resume appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
GANGTOK: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Wednesday held a high-level meeting with senior state government officials to take stock of the situation in landslide-hit Mangan district. Three army personnel were killed and six soldiers went missing after a landslide hit a military camp at Chaten. Several others were also injured. The landslide, which occurred at 7 pm on Sunday near Lachen town in Mangan district, was triggered by heavy rainfall in the area. Today, I convened a high-level meeting with the chief secretary and senior officials from the Planning and Land & Revenue Departments to take stock of the concerning situation in Mangan district, he said in a social media post. What is unfolding is truly heartbreaking. Our people are facing immense hardship due to this natural calamity and my heart goes out to every family affected, he said referring to large-scale destruction of road infrastructure due to landslides triggered by heavy rain in Mangan district. The chief minister said that he has directed all departments to act swiftly and in close coordination with the NDRF, SDRF, BRO, TAAS, and other agencies concerned to ensure that rescue and relief operations are carried out without delay. Every possible effort is being made to reach those in need, he said. Tamang urged all residents and tourists not to panic as the state government is doing everything within its power to manage the situation and protect lives. We are with you at every step, and we will not rest until safety and normalcy are restored, he said, while appealing for unity, strength, and cooperation from everyone. Let us stand together as one family, and we will overcome this challenge with courage and compassion, he said. The state government has already declared the damage caused by incessant rainfall in Mangan district since May 28 as a disaster under Section 22(2)(b) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, according to an official statement. The declaration was issued by the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) and the Land Revenue and Disaster Management Department. Meanwhile, around 109 tourists stranded in Lachen in north Sikkim for nearly a week due to landslides were brought to Chaten on Wednesday for air evacuation, as and when the weather permits, officials said. Despite damage to connectivity, approximately 109 stranded tourists have successfully reached Chaten from Lachen through coordinated efforts of the state government, Indian Army and local support teams, they said. All tourists have been safely accommodated in nearby hotels and at the Army camp in Chaten and are being prepared for air evacuation, as and when the weather permits, they said. No tourists are stranded in Lachen anymore, officials added. Due to constant bad weather in the region, helicopter sorties from Pakyong Airport could not take place during the day, they said. Two MI-17 V5 helicopters remain stationed at Pakyong on standby for immediate deployment once flying conditions improve, they said. Earlier in the day, Relief Commissioner-cum-Secretary Mingma T Sherpa, SSDMA Director Prabhakar Rai, his deputy Rajiv Roka visited Pakyong airport during the day to assess the situation and oversee preparedness for the resumption of rescue and relief operations. The ongoing relief operations in north Sikkim faced a critical setback after two key bridges over the Taran Chu River, situated between Munshithang and Chaten, were confirmed to have been washed away earlier due to incessant rain, severing motorable access to Chaten from Lachen. The loss of infrastructure has intensified the logistical challenges of the ongoing disaster response. In view of the washed-away bridges and suspension of aerial sorties, the state government is exploring an alternative ground-based evacuation route using a phased transshipment strategy. The officials said that the state government remains fully engaged in managing the disaster response by ensuring continuous coordination with central agencies and the armed forces to safeguard lives and provide essential relief. The restoration of connectivity and timely evacuation remain top priorities as the authorities continue to navigate through adverse terrain and weather conditions. The state administration is actively coordinating with local authorities to provide relief and facilitate evacuations in Mangan district, the officials said. The district administration has also appealed to the public to stay alert and cooperate with local authorities and the army.
NDRF team rushed to Chhaten for search operations for missing soldiers
Gangtok: A team of 23 NDRF personnel were rushed to Chhaten in North Sikkim from here on Tuesday for rescue and search operations for six soldiers missing after a landslide hit an army camp, officials said. The NDRF team is equipped with satellite phones and essential emergency equipment, the official said. A helicopter carrying the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Sikkim: Landslide hits army camp in Lachen, 3 soldiers killed, 6 missing
A landslide in Sikkim's Lachen district claimed the lives of three army personnel. Six are still missing. Rescue operations are ongoing amidst difficult conditions. Stranded tourists in Lachung have been evacuated. The Border Roads Organisation restored connectivity. Over 1600 tourists were safely transported to Gangtok. Officials are praising the coordinated rescue efforts of various agencies.
3 Army personnel dead, 6 soldiers missing after landslide in Sikkim
1,678 tourists evacuated, over 100 still stranded Gangtok: Three Army personnel died and six soldiers went missing after a landslide hit a military camp at Chhaten in Sikkim, a defence official said on Monday. The landslide, which occurred at 7 pm on Sunday near Lachen town in Mangan district, was triggered by heavy rainfall in []
Sikkim landslide kills 3 army personnel, 6 soldiers missing
Gangtok: Three army personnel died and six soldiers went missing after a landslide hit a military camp at Chhaten in Sikkim, a defence official said on Monday, June 2. The landslide, which occurred at 7 pm on Sunday near Lachen town in Mangan district, was triggered by heavy rainfall in the area, he said. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
3 Army Personnel Dead, 6 Soldiers Missing As Landslide Hits Military Camp In Sikkim
Gangtok, Jun 2: Three army personnel died and six soldiers went missing after a landslide hit a military camp at Chhaten in Sikkim, a defence official said on Monday. The landslide, which occurred at 7 pm on Sunday near Lachen town in Mangan district, was triggered by heavy rainfall in the area, he said. A catastrophic landslide occurred following intense and continuous rainfall in the region causing death of three combatants, identified as Havaldar Lakhwinder Singh, Lance Naik Munish [] The post 3 Army Personnel Dead, 6 Soldiers Missing As Landslide Hits Military Camp In Sikkim appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
500 tourists stranded in North Sikkim as landslides block roads
Gangtok: At least 500 tourists were stranded in various parts of North Sikkim on Saturday as the main road was blocked by landslides due to incessant rains, officials said. On the other side, the search for the missing eight tourists was disrupted by heavy rains, and it was finally called off after the water level Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Heavy rains trigger landslides and floods across northeast and south India; at least a dozen dead
Heavy rainfall over the past 48 hours has caused widespread flooding, landslides, and disruption in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Karnataka, and Kerala, claiming at least many lives and affecting tens of thousands. Heavy rains claimined 11 lives in Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram and Tripura . Assam saw five deaths from landslides in Kamrup Metropolitan district, including three women killed in a landslide near Guwahatis Bonda area, Urban Affairs Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah confirmed. Flooding affected more than 10,000 people in six districts, including Kamrup, Cachar, Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, and Golaghat, where two relief camps and one distribution centre have been set up. A red alert remains in effect for 18 districts amid heavy rain and gusty winds. Massive waterlogging was reported in Guwahati, forcing closure of schools and special leave for government employees. In Arunachal Pradesh, flash floods caused by the overflowing Sigin River in Upper Subansiri district inundated Daporijo town and several colonies, damaging at least 117 houses and critical infrastructure. Authorities have issued prohibitory orders urging evacuation of vulnerable areas. In West Kameng district, landslides near Jamiri stranded hundreds along the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang road, and major road blockages disrupted connectivity. A landslide in Bomdila washed away parts of roads and culverts, while power supply was disrupted. Mizorams Lawngtlai town witnessed the collapse of five houses and a hotel due to landslides on Friday night. Several Myanmar nationals staying in the hotel are feared trapped under debris, one person is feared to have died in the incident. Rescue operations involving the State Disaster Response Force and local volunteers are underway. The state has been hit by torrential rains since Friday, causing multiple landslides and rockfalls. In Meghalaya, three people died in East Khasi Hills district from rain-related incidentsa 50-year-old woman killed by a landslide in Lumkyntung, a 35-year-old man drowned in Pomlakrai Mawbynna, and a 15-year-old boy died after a tree fell on him in Mawkynrew Block. Over 1,000 residents across 25 villages have been affected by landslides, flash floods, and power outages. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the victims families. Flooding also damaged roads and inundated schools. Rescue efforts for a missing couple from Indore in Sohra have been suspended due to heavy rain and landslides but will resume as weather permits. Nagaland and Tripura each reported one death on Friday due to rain-related incidents. Karnatakas Dakshina Kannada district on Friday reported five deaths due to landslides triggered by heavy rain. A house collapse in Montepadavu Kodi buried six family members, including two toddlers and their grandmother. One mother was found unconscious but alive, clutching her children amid the debris. A compound wall collapse in Mangaluru claimed the life of a six-year-old girl. Additionally, a 27-year-old lineman died of electrocution while repairing a high-tension power line during the rain. Rescue operations have been hampered by continued rainfall and unstable terrain. In Uttarakhand, a 38-year-old man died and five others were injured after a landslide struck a vehicle on the Kedarnath National Highway near Kund, close to Guptkashi in Rudraprayag district. The vehicle was carrying pilgrims from Chhattisgarh to Kedarnath when it was hit by debris. Rescue and relief operations were launched immediately by the local administration and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). The injured were rushed to Augustmuni Hospital. Officials said two of the pilgrims were seriously injured, while three others suffered minor injuries. The deceased was identified as Rajesh Singh Rawat, a resident of Lambgaon in Tehri Garhwal, who was driving the vehicle. The injured are between 19 and 25 years old and belong to Chhattisgarhs Durg district. Monsoon rains have caused severe flooding across several districts in Kerala, forcing hundreds of people to evacuate low-lying areas and seek shelter in relief camps. In Kasaragod district, overflowing Madhuvahini River submerged roads and flooded homes, with residents moving to upper floors to escape rising waters. Similar flooding and heavy downpours have affected Kozhikode and Kannur districts, where locals have kept wooden and fiber boats ready amid fears of further displacement. Authorities have opened 46 relief camps in Kottayam district, sheltering over 1,100 people, while Alappuzha district currently hosts 851 evacuees across 26 camps, with 19 houses destroyed on Friday alone. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by strong surface winds reaching gusts of up to 50 kmph in multiple districts, including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, Alappuzha, and Kottayam. The situation remains critical as swollen rivers and tributaries continue to inundate vulnerable areas. Meanwhile, several higher-altitude areas in Jammu and Kashmir received fresh snowfall on Saturday, including Tulail and Razdan Top in Gurez valley, Peer Ki Gali in Shopian, and Zojila Pass on the Srinagar-Leh highway. Authorities closed the Bandipora-Gurez road as a precaution. Meanwhile, the plains, including Srinagar, were lashed by rain, causing temperatures to drop with minimums falling by up to 3 degrees and maximums 3-5 degrees below normal. Light to moderate rain or thundershowers with light snow are expected over the higher reaches in the next 24 hours. Heavy rainfall and hailstorms hit Ramban district, disrupting normal life. Parts of Srinagar saw moderate to heavy rain, welcomed by tourists as a refreshing change from recent heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast widespread rain and thunderstorms across Kashmir, with isolated heavy rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph. Srinagars temperatures will range between 24C and 11C. Jammu Division will also see light to moderate rain with isolated heavy showers and winds up to 60 kmph, with Jammu city experiencing partly cloudy skies and temperatures between 37C and 21C. The IMD has advised residents to stay alert amid the possibility of heavy rain and strong winds. The IMD has issued a red alert for Sikkim on Saturday following heavy rains and rising water levels in the Teesta River, warning of possible floods and landslides in Mangan, Gyalshing, and Soreng districts. Based on a Nowcast Weather Alert from Baluwakhani, Gangtok, severe rainfall was forecasted for 2 to 3 hours starting at 6:15 am. The District Magistrate of Gangtok urged the public not to panic but stay alert, while directing all disaster management officers to remain on high alert and maintain communication with field staff along the Teesta river belt. Landslides were reported in North Sikkims Theeng and Chungthang areas, damaging properties. Emergency services are actively monitoring water levels, with disaster response teams on standby. The IMD advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, remain indoors, and steer clear of riverbanks and vulnerable slopes. No casualties have been reported yet, but the situation remains tense due to continuous rains and rising river levels, with authorities promising timely updates. The India Meteorological Department has issued multiple red alerts in vulnerable districts across these states, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides, and strong winds reaching up to 60 kmph in gusts. Authorities have urged residents to avoid risky areas and follow evacuation and safety advisories. National and state disaster response teams remain deployed to conduct rescue and relief operations as the monsoon continues. (With inputs from PTI, ANI)
Odisha BJP Leader Itishree Jena Among Those Missing In Sikkim Tourist Vehicle Tragedy
The accident occurred between Chungthang and Munshithang while the group was returning from Gangtok
Sikkim poised to become global tourism, Green Model hub: PM Modi
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday declared that Sikkim is the pride of India and that the government envisions transforming the state into a global tourism destination and a Green Model State for the world. Addressing the Sikkim@50 event in Gangtok via videoconferencing, due to adverse weather conditions preventing his travel to the venue, Modi said, We are advancing the 'Act East' policy with the spirit of 'Act Fast' and Sikkim and the entire Northeast are emerging as a shining chapter in India's progress. He emphasised the Centres ambition to make Sikkim an international tourism hub, highlighting the states potential and natural assets. In the coming years, India is poised to emerge as a global sports superpower. The Yuva Shakti of the Northeast and Sikkim will play a pivotal role in realising this dream, he said. He further reiterated, Our vision is for Sikkim to become a Green Model State not just for India but for the entire world. Reflecting on Sikkims journey over the past five decades, Modi said, Fifty years ago, Sikkim charted a democratic future for itself. The people of Sikkim not only connected with India's geography but also with its soul. He noted that the nation has witnessed the fruits of this trust in the state's remarkable development. Sikkim is the pride of the nation, he reaffirmed, adding that the state has become a model of progress in harmony with nature. Highlighting its economic success, he said, Sikkim is among the states with the highest per capita income in the country. These achievements are a testament to the capabilities of the people of Sikkim. The Prime Minister also underlined the importance of inclusive development, saying that since 2014, the government has worked with the principle of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, development for all, with everyones support. He added, A developed India requires balanced growth, ensuring that no region is left behind while others forge ahead. He remarked that every region in India has unique strengths and the government has placed the Northeast at the centre of development over the past decade. Sikkim, along with the entire Northeast, is becoming a shining chapter in India's development story, Modi said. Where once the distance from Delhi posed a barrier to progress, the same region is now opening new doors of opportunity. He stressed that the key driver behind this transformation has been improved connectivity, which the people of Sikkim have directly experienced. Reminiscing about a time when travel for education, healthcare and employment was a major challenge, he noted that this situation has changed significantly over the past ten years. Nearly 400 kilometres of new national highways have been built in Sikkim during this period, in addition to hundreds of kilometres of roads constructed in villages. The Prime Minister also spoke about major infrastructure projects in the state, including the construction of the Atal Setu which has enhanced Sikkims connectivity with Darjeeling. He added that work is progressing swiftly on the road connecting Sikkim with Kalimpong, among other developmental initiatives. The foundation of a developed India rests on four strong pillar, empowerment of the poor, farmers, women and youth, Modi said. As part of this effort, he announced the establishment of Indias first organic fisheries cluster in Soreng district, a step that further enhances Sikkims profile as an organic leader. Recalling the recent NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting in Delhi, the Prime Minister said it emphasised the need for each state to develop a tourism destination of international repute. The time has come for Sikkim to move beyond its identity as merely a hill station and to establish itself as a global tourism destination, he stated. He cited Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as a source of immense national and international pride. Modi also referred to the new skywalk under construction, the Golden Jubilee Project inauguration, and the unveiling of a statue of Atal Bihari Vajpayee as symbols of Sikkims growing stature. The people of Sikkim understand the power of tourism, and tourism is not just entertainment but a celebration of diversity, he said. Addressing the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, the Prime Minister declared that it was not merely an assault on Indians, but an attack on humanity and the spirit of brotherhood. He stated that the terrorists sought to divide the people of India and caused pain by wiping the sindoor off the foreheads of Indian daughters, but that India responded strongly with Operation Sindoor against the perpetrators. Today, the world is witnessing Indias unprecedented unity and the nation has come together to send a clear message to terrorists and their supporters, Modi asserted.
Op Sindoor befitting reply to those who unleashed terror in India: PM
Gangtok, May 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said Operation Sindoor was a befitting reply to those who unleashed terror in India, asserting that the country was united in the fight against terrorism. Addressing the 50th anniversary of Sikkims statehood function, Modi said the Himalayan state is the pride of the nation and its [] The post Op Sindoor befitting reply to those who unleashed terror in India: PM appeared first on Northlines .
Pahalgam Terror Strike Was Attack On Indias Soul, Our Response Decisive: PM Modi
Gangtok, May 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the Pahalgam terror strike last month was an attack on the soul and unity of India, and subsequent Operation Sindoor was a decisive response to terrorists. He asserted that the country was united in its fight against terrorism, adding that India gave a befitting reply and destroyed terror infrastructure and several airbases in Pakistan. Describing the Pahalgam attack as a deliberate attempt to create a rift in India on religious [] The post Pahalgam Terror Strike Was Attack On Indias Soul, Our Response Decisive: PM Modi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
'Operation Sindoor befitting reply to those who unleashed terror in India': PM Modi
GANGTOK: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said Operation Sindoor was a befitting reply to those who unleashed terror in India, asserting that the country was united in the fight against terrorism. Addressing the 50th anniversary of Sikkim's statehood function, Modi said the Himalayan state is the pride of the nation and its people believe in democracy. Operation Sindoor against terrorists in the wake of the Pahalgam attack last month was a befitting reply to those who unleashed terror in India. What terrorists did in Pahalgam was an attack on humanity, and we are now united in the fight against terrorism, the PM said virtually. Modi's proposed visit to Gangtok to attend the golden jubilee celebrations of Sikkim's statehood was cancelled because of inclement weather conditions. He addressed the gathering at Paljor Stadium here virtually from Bagdogra in West Bengal. I wanted to be part of Sikkim's statehood event in Gangtok, but weather played spoilsport, he said. The prime minister said the NDA government was dedicated to making India a sports superpower. We want Northeast, including Sikkim, to move in this direction. Sikkim has the potential to become a hub of adventure sports, he added. The prime minister said Sikkim was increasing organic exports, which was a big achievement for the state. He added that connectivity was the main focus of the Centre, and the Sevoke-Rangpo project will link the Himalayan state with the country's rail network. Sikkim is rich in biodiversity and has set examples in nature conservation, he added.
Operation Sindoor Befitting Reply To Those Who Unleashed Terror In India: PM
Gangtok, May 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said Operation Sindoor was a befitting reply to those who unleashed terror in India, asserting that the country was united in the fight against terrorism. Addressing the 50th anniversary of Sikkims statehood function, Modi said the Himalayan state is the pride of the nation and its people believe in democracy. Operation Sindoor against terrorists in the wake of the Pahalgam attack last month was a befitting reply to those who unleashed [] The post Operation Sindoor Befitting Reply To Those Who Unleashed Terror In India: PM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PM Modi cancels Sikkim visit due to inclement weather, to address statehood event virtually
Due to adverse weather, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's planned visit to Gangtok for Sikkim's statehood golden jubilee has been cancelled; however, he will participate virtually. He was slated to release a commemorative coin and inaugurate projects, including a 500-bed hospital in Namchi and a ropeway in Pelling. A statue of Atal Bihari Vajpayee was also to be unveiled.
PM Modi to visit Gangtok today, inaugurate key projects marking Sikkim's 50th anniversary
Major initiatives include a new 500-bed district hospital in Namchi worth over 750 crore, a passenger ropeway at Sangachoeling in Pelling and the unveiling of a Statue of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Atal Amrit Udyan
PM Modi In Sikkim Today To Celebrate 50th Anniversary Of Statehood
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the hill state of Sikkim today to take part in the celebrations over 50 years of statehood for Sikkim. PM Modi will arrive in Gangtok at 9:45 am Thursday at Libing Helipad in Gangtok District.
'Important, Optimistic It'll Be Functional Soon': Union Minister On Sikkim Airport
Taking a keen interest in the airport at Pakyong, which serves Sikkim's capital Gangtok and has seen no flight operations for nearly two years, Union Minister Pabitra Margherita said he is optimistic that it will be functional again soon.
Preparations underway for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Sikkim after five years
Two acclimatisation centres are being established between state capital Gangtok and Nathu La, while functional toilets and other travel-related infrastructure are also being developed for the pilgrims, said MLA Thinlay Tshering Bhutia.
Kailash Mansarovar yatra to resume via Nathula in June after 5-year hiatus
Gangtok, May 18: The Sikkim government has accelerated infrastructure development for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Nathu La, a mountain pass in the Himalayas that connects the state with Chinas Tibet Autonomous Region. The pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake, set to resume after a gap of five years, holds religious significance to Hindus [] The post Kailash Mansarovar yatra to resume via Nathula in June after 5-year hiatus appeared first on Northlines .
