Sikkim Faces Worst Monsoon Deficit in Five Years, Raising Alarms Over Agriculture and Water Supply
HT DIGITAL GANGTOK, JULY 9: Sikkim is faced with its worst monsoon deficit in five years currently, as a 35% rainfall shortage was reported from June 1 to July 8, 2025. This was established by the India Meteorological Departments (IMD) Meteorological Centre at Gangtok, which is raising alarm over the effects on agriculture, water resources, []
Sikkim CM backs youth-led education initiatives, lauds Kunzang Choeki Bhutias vision
Sikkim CM backs youth-led education initiatives, lauds Kunzang Choeki Bhutias vision Gangtok: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) on Monday extended strong support to youth-driven educational reforms, following a meeting with educationist and social entrepreneur Kunzang Choeki Bhutia. The meeting, held in Gangtok, focused on developing sustainable partnerships for Sikkims long-term growth, especially in [] The post Sikkim CM backs youth-led education initiatives, lauds Kunzang Choeki Bhutias vision appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Work hard, remain grounded: Sikkim CM
GANGTOK, July 5: Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Saturday exhorted the probationary officers of the Sikkim State Civil Services (SCS) and Sikkim Finance and Accounts Services to discharge their duties with dedication in order to make a meaningful contribution in development of the state. I interacted with the probationary officers of the 2025 batch []
Sikkim CM inspects site for upcoming peacock park project in Soreng district
GANGTOK, July 4: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Friday conducted a site inspection of the upcoming Peacock Park project in Soreng district. The project, coming up at Baiguney, is being built at an estimated cost of 15 crore. Taking to social media, the CM said he reviewed the proposed layout plans and examined []
Interstellar Object 3I/ATLAS to Pass Earth After Flying By Mars
Gangtok, June 4 : A massive interstellar object, designated 3I/ATLAS, has entered our solar system The post Interstellar Object 3I/ATLAS to Pass Earth After Flying By Mars appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Congress leaders reference to Sikkim as neighbouring country draws criticism in Himalayan state
GANGTOK, July 2: Congress leader Ajoy Kumars reference to Sikkim as a neighbouring country has drawn widespread criticism from various sections of the society, including political parties, in the Himalayan state. Kumar, during a press conference on Tuesday, had referred to the state as a neighbouring country in the same frame alongside Bangladesh, Nepal and []
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.
Sikkim celebrates International Olympic Day with sports activities
GANGTOK, June 23: The Sikkim Olympic Association (SOA) on Monday celebrated the International Olympic Day 2025 with a series of sports activities at Paljor Stadium and a programme at the SOA office with the theme Move, Learn, Discover for a Better World. The celebrations began with multiple sporting events organised by member associations. A blood []
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 .
Sikkim Transport Department Denies Rumours of 25,000 Vehicle Re-Registration Tax
HT DIGITAL GANGTOK, JUNE 19: In the face of mass misinformation on social media, the Sikkim Transport Departments Motor Vehicles Division has made an official clarification on the new tax structure on the re-registration and transfer of ownership of vehicles in the state. In a June 18, 2025, press release, the department categorically ruled out []
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.
76 army personnel airlifted from landslide-hit Chaten in north Sikkim
GANGTOK: At least 76 army personnel were on Saturday airlifted from Chaten in north Sikkim where road connectivity has been snapped due to multiple landslides triggered by heavy rain, officials said. This marks the completion of coordinated evacuation efforts, which included the rescue of all stranded tourists earlier, they said. Altogether 76 army personnel were airlifted by three MI-17 helicopters. The air evacuation operation from Chaten has concluded today with the helicopters transporting army personnel from Chaten to Pakyong Greenfield Airport, an official said. The state government continues to closely monitor the overall situation and remains committed to providing all necessary support in the disaster-hit region and assistance to those affected by natural calamities, another official said. Heavy rain had triggered multiple landslides in north Sikkim recently, disrupting road connectivity in the region. As a result, more than 1,600 tourists had been stranded in Lachen, Lachung and Chungthang towns for days before they were rescued by the state government. The Indian army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and the Mangan district administration had carried out rescue and search operations for days and evacuated all stranded tourists and local people, the officials said. Several helicopters were pressed into service to evacuate more than 140 tourists by air, they said. Three army personnel were killed, four injured and six others went missing after a landslide hit a military camp at Chaten on the evening of June 1. Efforts are underway to locate the missing soldiers. Flood toll rises to 52 in Northeast; over 5.6 lakh affected in Assam, 199 airlifted in Sikkim
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.
Over 1,600 Tourists Evacuated From Landslide-Hit Sikkim, 100 Still Stranded
Over 1,600 tourists were evacuated from two north Sikkim towns after rain-triggered landslides blocked roads leading to Gangtok and out of the state.
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 India's soul, our response decisive': PM Modi
GANGTOK: 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 lines, Modi said, We sent out a clear message that India is united despite the terror strike which erased sindoor of some of our sisters. At least 26 people, mostly tourists, died in the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. The execution-like killing by terrorists after reportedly asking about the victims' faith left the entire country grieving and outraged. Addressing the 50th anniversary of Sikkim's statehood function at Paljor Stadium here, Modi said the Himalayan state is the pride of the nation and its people believe in democracy. The prime minister regretted that he could not attend the function at the statehood celebrations due to inclement weather, but assured that he would visit the state in future. Operation Sindoor against terrorists in the wake of the Pahalgam attack 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 from Bagdogra in West Bengal. The PM inaugurated a slew of infrastructure projects and laid the foundation stones of several others. The projects inaugurated by Modi included a 500-bed District Hospital in Namchi, 'Swarna Jayanti Maitreya Manjari' (at White Hall, Ridge Park), a passenger ropeway at Pelling to Sangacholing Monastery, a 'gaushala' at Mamring and a statue of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in Gangtok district. He also laid the foundation stones for a district hospital at Pakyong, a visitor experience centre at Nathula, and the conversion of Singshore Bridge into a glass skywalk. He also unveiled the Bhaleydunga Skywalk project, a working women's hostel at Gangtok (Tadong), Swarna Jayanti Convention Centre at Namli, and Swarna Jayanti Sports and Cultural Centre near Gangtok. The prime minister congratulated the people of Sikkim on the completion of 50 years of statehood and said he was glad that the people of the Himalayan state chose to join a democratic India to be part of development and prosperity. Modi hailed Sikkim for being a shining example of the blending of biodiversity and spiritualism. Sikkim is rich in biodiversity and has set examples in nature conservation, he added. The state has also become a big tourist destination despite being small in size and welcomes around 10 lakh visitors annually, he said. Recalling the contributions of great sportspersons Bhaichung Bhutia, Tarundeep Rai and Jaspal Pradhan, he said that Sikkim has the potential to become a hub of sports activities. 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.
'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.
Preparations Underway For Kailash Mansarovar Yatra From Sikkim After 5 Years
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 as well as Jains and Buddhists. Two acclimatisation centres are being established between state capital Gangtok and Nathu La, while functional toilets and other travel-related [] The post Preparations Underway For Kailash Mansarovar Yatra From Sikkim After 5 Years appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Tourists stranded in north Sikkim on their way back to Gangtok: Officials
Around 200 tourist vehicles had been stranded at Chungthang on Thursday and the occupants took shelter in a Gurdwara
Landslides and heavy rain leave 1,000 tourists stranded in North Sikkim
GANGKTOK: Around 1,000 tourists were stranded in picturesque North Sikkim following landslides in the Himalayan state which is also witnessing heavy rain, police said. Around 200 tourist vehicles were stranded at Chungthang on Thursday and the occupants are staying in a Gurudwara there, they said. Chungthang is nearly 100 km from the state capital Gangtok. The police said that massive landslides have occurred at Munshithang on the LachenChungthang road and at Lema/Bob on the LachungChungthang road. The situation was aggravated by continuous rain in the region. The district administration has instructed all tour operators not to send tourists to North Sikkim on Friday and until further notice, officials said. The authorities have cancelled all permits given to tourists for visiting the region on April 25. According to local administration, access roads to Lachung and Lachen have been severely affected, leaving around 1,000 tourists stranded. Lachung and Lachen are hill stations, known for their natural beauty and proximity to popular tourist destinations like Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley.
Landslides And Heavy Rain Strand 1,000 Tourists In North Sikkim
Chungthang is nearly 100 km from the state capital Gangtok.
Feels Like Another Country: Travel Vlogger Says Sikkim Is Too Clean To Be India
While walking through the streets of Gangtok, the vlogger couldn't help but express how different the state felt compared to the rest of India.
Sikkim: 8 held for raping 13-year-old girl for months
Gangtok: Eight people, including four boys, were apprehended for allegedly raping a 13-year-old girl for months in Sikkims Gyalshing district, police said on Sunday. The action was taken on the basis of a complaint filed by the Child Welfare Committee on Friday after the girls school alerted them about her condition. During counseling, the girl 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 .
Gangtok Travel Guide: The Ultimate Cheatsheet On Where To Go, Shop, Eat, And Stay
From offering high-altitude thrills and hearty local eats to gorgeous Himalayan views, Gangtok is where serenity meets street-style cool.
Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela are currently shooting their upcoming romantic drama in Gangtok and Darjeeling. The untitled film is directed by Anurag Basu and could be titled Aashiqui 3.
Uncontrolled movement of overloaded trucks damage four bridges in North Sikkim: BRO
Gangtok, Mar 15: As many as four bridges in North Sikkim have either collapsed or got severely damaged in North Sikkim in the past two months due to the movement of overloaded trucks on those bridges, an official release by Project Swastik said on Saturday. Project Swastik is undertaken by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to enhance infrastructure and connectivity in the border regions of Sikkim, particularly in North Sikkim. Due to uncontrolled movement of overloaded trucks, four vital bridges [] The post Uncontrolled movement of overloaded trucks damage four bridges in North Sikkim: BRO appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
