PCS and JUS Condemn Defamation and Harassment of Journalist Nirmal Mangar
The Press Club of Sikkim (PCS) and the Journalist Union of Sikkim (JUS) strongly condemn The post PCS and JUS Condemn Defamation and Harassment of Journalist Nirmal Mangar appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
These twelve states are Assam, Mizoram, Kerala, Meghalaya, Manipur, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Goa, West Bengal, and Sikkim.
Ganesh Rai and BP Bajgain told me to speak against ASKCBKS : Samsong Tamang
Most wanted criminal from Darjeeling, Samsong Tamang, was arrested on Wednesday in Bodhgaya through a The post Ganesh Rai and BP Bajgain told me to speak against ASKCBKS : Samsong Tamang appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
NIT Sikkim Project Assistant Recruitment 2025 - Apply Offline
National Institute of Technology Sikkim (NIT Sikkim) has Recruits Project Assistant Posts. Candidates with B.Tech/B.E Can Apply on or before 25-02-2025.
Samsong Tamang Arrested In Bodhgaya
After nearly two weeks of intense searching, police tracked down and arrested Samsong Tamang in The post Samsong Tamang Arrested In Bodhgaya appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Snowfall makes Nathu La pass, New Baba Mandir out of bounds for tourists
GANGTOK, Feb 19: Heavy snowfall in the high altitude of Sikkim blocked a key road that takes tourists to popular destinations Nathu La pass which lies on the China border, and New Baba Mandir, the memorial of a soldier, an official said on Wednesday. The snowfall began late Tuesday night and intensified in the morning []
Omg! Doctors Pulled Out Snake-Like Worm From Boys Nose in Kashmir
A young boy from Kashmir had the fright of his life when doctors pulled a The post Omg! Doctors Pulled Out Snake-Like Worm From Boys Nose in Kashmir appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Sikkim CM Tamang Announces Strict Action on Unclean Toilets at Petrol Pumps and Govt Offices
HT Digital GANGTOK, Feb 18: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has warned of strict action against unclean toilets at petrol pumps and government offices. While he inaugurated Lebunba Pungwa Ne-ing Yuk Him (Manghim) at Yuma Yok in Darap, Gyalshing, CM Tamang underlined the importance of having clean toilets at petrol stations and government establishments. []
Nepali Students Tragic Death at KIIT University: Boyfriend Arrested
In a heartbreaking incident at KIIT University in Bhubaneswar, Prakriti Lamsal, a third-year B.Tech student The post Nepali Students Tragic Death at KIIT University: Boyfriend Arrested appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Sikkim Reports Four Suicides in a Day, Including 13-Year-Old Boy, Raising Mental Health Concerns
HT Digital GANGTOK, Feb 17: In a concerning trend, Sikkim recorded four suicides in a single day, including that of a 13-year-old boy. The deaths, reported from different regions of the state on February 14, highlight the urgent need for mental health intervention and awareness. Three of the deceased were found hanging, while another individual []
Assam: CBSE staff member killed during accident in Bajali
Guwahati: A road accident on National Highway 27 (NH-27) in Patacharkuchi, Bajali district, Lower Assam, resulted in the loss of one life and leaving several others injured. According to sources, a vehicle, bearing registration number SK01J2345, was travelling from Sikkim to Guwahati with school staff and answer sheets of the Central Board of Secondary Education [] The post Assam: CBSE staff member killed during accident in Bajali appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Sikkim-Registered Vehicle Meets with Tragic Accident in Assam; One Dead, One Injured
A heartbreaking accident took place in Assams Bajali district early this morning, involving a Sikkim-registered The post Sikkim-Registered Vehicle Meets with Tragic Accident in Assam; One Dead, One Injured appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Maharashtra Health Department has reported 205 suspected cases of GBS
The Maharashtra Health Department has reported 205 suspected cases of Guillain-Barr Syndrome (GBS) across the The post Maharashtra Health Department has reported 205 suspected cases of GBS appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
In a major reshuffle, Congress appoints new general secretaries, State in-charges
NEW DELHI: In an organisational reshuffle, Congress on Friday appointed new general secretaries and in-charges for several states. In a press release, the party said that Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge appointed Bhupesh Baghel as the AICC general secretary in charge of Punjab and Rajya Sabha MP Syed Naseer Hussain as the general secretary in charge of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Naseer Hussain has been relieved of his responsibilities in the Congress president's office. Rajya Sabha member Rajani Patil has been appointed as AICC in-charge of Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh. BK Hariprasad has been given the charge of Haryana, where the Congress suffered a massivedefeat in the recent assembly polls. Harish Chaudhary has been given the charge of Madhya Pradesh, Girish Chodankar - Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, Ajay Kumar Lallu - Odisha, K Raju - Jharkhand, Meenakshi Natarajan - Telangana, Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka - Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim and Krishna Allavaru - Bihar. The party said that it appreciated the contribution of six outgoing general secretaries, Dipak Babria, Mohan Prakash, Bharatsinh Solanki, Rajeev Shukla, Ajay Kumar and Devender Yadav. All other general secretariesand in-charges will continue to serve in their designated capacities, it said.
State Pollution Control Board Sikkim (SPCB Sikkim) has Recruits 79 Junior Scientific Assistant, Field Assistant Posts. Candidates with B.Sc, M.Sc Can Apply on or before 22-03-2025.
Centre can't impose service tax on sale of lotteries: SC
The Supreme Court ruled that the Centre cannot impose service tax on the sale of lotteries, a state subject under List II. It upheld Sikkim High Court's decision that lottery activities fall under 'betting and gambling'. The court found no merit in the Centre's appeal, emphasizing that no service was rendered between lottery ticket purchasers and state governments.
Lottery distributors not liable to pay service tax to Centre: SC
The Supreme Court has dismissed the Centre's plea to levy service tax on the promotion, marketing, or sale of lottery tickets, siding with Sikkim High Court's judgement that such tax falls under state jurisdiction. The court ruled that taxation power on lotteries, deemed games of chance, lies solely with the states, invalidating the Centres claims.
Centre can't levy service tax on lottery distributors, only state govts can, rules SC
The Supreme Court has ruled that only state governments, not the Centre, can levy taxes on lottery distributors for promotion and organisation activities. The decision upheld a Sikkim High Court's 2012 verdict, confirming Parliament lacks authority to impose such taxes under its residuary powers.
States to decide tax on lottery, not Centre: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court of India dismissed the Centre's appeal, ruling that lottery distributors are not liable to pay service tax to the Union government. The court affirmed that taxation on lotteries falls under state jurisdiction, confirming the Sikkim High Court's decision. Lottery distributors will continue to pay the state-imposed gambling tax. The case originated from a 2013 petition by Future Gaming Solutions Pvt Ltd.
SC Rules Lottery Distributors Not Liable for Service Tax
Supreme Court upholds Sikkim HC verdict, says only states can tax lotteries
Lottery distributors not liable to pay service tax to Centre, rules SC
NEW DELHI: Lottery distributors are not liable to pay service tax to the Union government, the Supreme Court held on Tuesday while dismissing an appeal of the Centre on the issue. A bench comprising Justices BV Nagarathna and NK Singh did not agree to the appeal of the Centre against the Sikkim High Court judgement. Since there is no agency in the relationship, the respondents (lottery distributors) were not liable to pay service tax. However, the respondents will continue to pay the gambling tax levied by the state under Entry 62, List II of the Constitution, Justice Nagarathna said while pronouncing the verdict. Service tax is not leviable on the transactions between the purchaser of the lottery tickets and firmIn view of the aforesaid discussions, we find no merit in the appeals filed by the Union of India and others. Hence, these appeals are dismissed, the bench said. Upholding the Sikkim High Court verdict, the top court said it is only the state government that can impose taxes on lotteries and not the Centre. The Centre had contended that it was entitled to impose service tax. The top court said the high court was right in holding that the lottery comes within the expression etting and gambling which is part of Entry 62 of the state list of the Constitution and only the state can impose the tax. The Centre had moved the top court in 2013. The high court judgement had come on a plea filed by lottery firm Future Gaming Solutions Pvt Ltd.
Sikkim CM Unveils Golden Jubilee Cable Car Initiative, Paving The Way For Gangtoks Ropeway Project
Maha Kumbh: Sikkim CM Tamang, Karnataka Deputy CM Shivakumar take holy dip in Triveni Sangam Daijiworld.com
Armys modernisation plan picks pace
NEW DELHI: As part of modernising Indian Armys operational capabilities, a significant accretion is on the anvil on the aviation front, specifically the rotors, with the Army working toward inducting around 250 helicopters for surveillance and reconnaissance operations. A source said, The Army has outlined the need to replace its ageing helicopter fleet. Several options are being considered, emphasising indigenous production under the governments Make in India policy. Key contenders, sources informed, include HALs Light Utility Helicopter, Kamov-226T (Russia), and Airbus H125. The Army is also evaluating opportunities for private Indian companies to enter the helicopter manufacturing space, encouraging competition, innovation, and cost-effectiveness, sources added. The selection process is driven by performance benchmarks, ensuring that the replacement fleet is capable of extended endurance missions, enhanced troop transport, improved combat survivability, and superior sensor integration for reconnaissance and surveillance roles. Officials said that as Aero India 2025 approaches, military aviation landscape is set to take centre stage and a modern helicopter fleet is a key focus area. The Indian Army Aviation Corps, though one of the youngest branches of the Army, has emerged as a critical force multiplier in modern warfare, providing aerial support for combat operations, reconnaissance, logistics, casualty evacuation, and humanitarian assistance. However, as global military aviation advances and battlefield requirements evolve, a next-generation helicopter fleet has become imperative. Helicopters are an operational necessity, considering that the Indian Army operates in some of the worlds most extreme environments. In the northern and western theatres, helicopters facilitate rapid troop movement, reconnaissance, and combat support. The high-altitude terrain of Ladakh, Siachen Glacier, North Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh presents significant operational challenges with sub-zero temperatures, unpredictable weather and thin air conditions that demand highly capable rotary-wing platforms. In counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeast, helicopters enable quick insertion and extraction of troops, surveillance missions, and casualty evacuations. Beyond combat, the Army helicopters are pivotal in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, responding to natural calamities such as floods, earthquakes, and landslides. Rapid airlift capabilities are crucial for rescuing stranded civilians, delivering supplies, and providing medical evacuation in these scenarios. The Armys rotary-wing fleet is also vital in desert warfare. For decades, the Chetak and Cheetah helicopters have been the backbone of the Army Aviation Corps. While these platforms have proven their reliability and endurance, they are now technologically outdated. Initially developed in the 1960s and inducted in the 1970s, these helicopters lack modern avionics, safety features, and the operational flexibility required for contemporary warfare. Their single-engine configuration increases risk, and their limited payload capacity restricts their ability to transport troops and equipment efficiently. Maintenance challenges have also emerged, with the declining availability of spare parts. Recognising these challenges, the Indian Army has initiated a comprehensive plan to upgrade its helicopter fleet. Modernisation aims to enhance operational capabilities in altitude performance, endurance, payload capacity, survivability, and mission versatility. In July 2023, the defence ministry issued a Request for Information to lease 20 reconnaissance and surveillance helicopters with ground support equipment for five years. Currently, Indias Army Aviation Corps comprises three brigades at Leh, Missamari and Jodhpur, equipped with around 190 Cheetah, Chetak and Cheetal helicopters, 145 ALH, and 75 Rudra (ALH-WSI), which is the weaponised version. While the indigenous light combat helicopters are under induction, orders have been placed for 25 ALH Mk-III. CHOPPERS IN THE CART Among the key aircraft considered in place of Armys ageing fleet are Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) A domestically developed platform, currently undergoing phased induction. Designed for high-altitude performance, it is expected to replace the Cheetah and Chetak helicopters in forward areas Kamov-226T (Russia) A proven reconnaissance helicopter with a modular design and twin-engine safety. While initially part of an Indo-Russian joint production plan, procurement has faced delays, partly due to geopolitical considerations Airbus H125 A high-altitude capable helicopter with global recognition, offering advanced avionics and superior payload capacity Private Sector participation A significant step as helicopters are a crucial step in strengthening operational capabilities across diverse and challenging terrains. Private Indian companies entering helicopter manufacturing space is expected to encourage competition, innovation and cost-effectiveness
Speaking to News18, the studys first author, Ashim Sattar, said South Lhonak glacier experienced rapid mass loss in the past four years, and the moraines instability was evident for years before the 2023 glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF)
After BJP Sikkim unit, Congress raises concerns over Teesta-III hydro project, opposes it
Centre okayed Rs 150 cr to reduce glacial lake burst risks
NEW DELHI: The Centre has approved Rs 150 crore for a project to mitigate risk due to glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Uttarakhand. According to officials, the Centres share to the project is Rs 135 crore while states have to contribute Rs 15 crore. Sikkim has been allocated Rs 40 crore. A new study reveals how climate change-induced impacts led to devastating 2023 South Lhonak glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in North Sikkim which led to 55 fatalities and infrastructure loss in Teesta River valley. GLOF is breaching of glacial lake boundaries leading to release of huge water to nearby streams and rivers. The study points out that the GLOF was triggered by the collapse of an unstable section of the lateral frozen moraine of 14.7 million cubic metres, releasing a tsunami-like wave that devastated the Teesta Valley. Further, the presence of permafrost (frozen ground) in the collapsed area suggests that thawing may have contributed to the instability, the study says. This collapse generated a tsunami-like wave approximately 20 metres high, which eroded the lakes frontal moraine dam, releasing about 50 million cubic metres of water, it said. Sikkim glacial lake floods The study points out that the Sikkim GLOF was triggered by the collapse of an unstable section of the lateral frozen moraine of 14.7 million cubic metres, releasing a tsunami-like wave that devastated the Teesta Valley. GLOF is breaching of glacial lake boundaries leading to release of huge water to nearby streams.
Army carries out high-intensity firepower drill in Sikkim
The Indian Army has carried out a high-intensity firepower exercise in the high altitude areas of the eastern sector near LAC with China to sharpen it's battle readiness, rapid deployment and precision strike capabilities.
Army conducts firepower exercise of units deployed in Sikkim, Siliguri Corridor
The Indian Army's 33 Corps has conducted a live firepower exercise in Sikkim and the Siliguri Corridor, demonstrating its rapid deployment and precision strike capabilities. The units showcased their adaptability for high-altitude warfare, utilizing a range of weapons including indigenous and Israeli-origin missile systems.
Indian Army's Trishakti Corps conducts successful live-fire drills in the mountains of Sikkim
Free textbooks, uniforms distributed among students in Sikkim govt schools
GANGTOK, Feb 3: The Sikkim education department on Monday distributed textbooks and uniforms for free among students of all government schools in the state on the first day of the new academic session, officials said. As many as 40,968 students of 767 schools received free textbooks and uniforms, they said. The government of Sikkim has []
Buddhist Monks From Sikkim Begin Journey To Kumbh Mela
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang flagged off the journey of the team which also included two officials of the Ecclesiastical Department.
New Ramsar sites announced in Tamil Nadu and other regions
India has added four new Ramsar sites, including bird sanctuaries and wetlands in Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, and Jharkhand, bringing the total to 89. This reinforces India's leading position in Asia for Ramsar sites. The new designations are expected to enhance conservation efforts, biodiversity protection, and sustainable management, while raising awareness about the ecological significance of wetlands.
Himalayan tsunami, not cloudburst behind 2023 Sikkim GLOF disaster: Study
The paper by 34 scientists, members of NGOs, and other stakeholders concluded that the event eroded 270 million cubic meters of sediment that overwhelmed infrastructure
BJP spent over Rs 1,737 cr on 2024 polls, 37% more than 2019: Data
NEW DELHI: The BJP has informed the Election Commission of India (EC) that it spent a total of Rs 1,737.68 crore on the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and the elections for four state assemblies. Of this, Rs 884.45 crore was spent on general party propaganda, while Rs 853.23 crore was allocated for candidates expenses. The amount is nearly three times that of the Congress partys total expenditure of Rs 584.65 crore for both the parliamentary and four state elections in the same year. In comparison to the BJPs expenditure in 2019 general elections, the amount spent in 2024 was 37% more. In 2019, the party spent Rs 1,264.33 crore, as per the partys audited report submitted to the EC. Providing further break-ups of the expenditure, the party said that it spent around Rs 611.50 crore, of which the largest amount was spent on media advertisements, which included advertisements in print and electronic media, bulk SMS campaigns and promotional content across cable, websites, and TV channels. Of the total, Rs 156.95 was spent on Google India, while Rs 24.63 crore was allocated to Facebook. The BJP said the party also spent Rs 55.75 crore on publicity materials such as posters, banners, hoardings and flags to bolster its election outreach. Additionally, the BJPs expenditure on public meetings, processions, and rallies, including arrangements for stages, audio setups, barricades and vehicles, stood at Rs 19.84 crore. Campaign-related travel expenses formed another significant portion of the partys spending amounting to Rs 168.92 crore, as this included expenses on star campaigners authorised by the partys central headquarters. Additionally, Rs 2.53 crore was spent on the travel of other party leaders. Notably, the ruling BJP had heavily relied on mass outreach and publicity campaigns, which is evident from its spending patterns. Additionally, the gross receipts from the date of announcement of state elections to the date of their completion were Arunachal Pradesh (Rs 5,552.57 crore), Sikkim (Rs 5,552.41 crore), and Odisha (Rs 5,555.65 crore). The party also apologised for the delay in submitting the expenditure report well beyond the ECs 90-day deadline.
Economic Survey highlights Northeast states' 0.7% share in industrial GVA
The Economic Survey 2024-25 reveals that six Northeastern states, excluding Sikkim and Assam, contribute only 0.7% to industrial GVA, urging focus on tailored industrial strategies for these regions. It also highlights that four states, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, generate 43% of the total industrial output.
BJP spent over Rs 1,700 crore for 2024 Lok Sabha polls: Party's expenditure report to EC
NEW DELHI: The Bharatiya Janata Party spent Rs 1,737.68 crore for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, according to the expenditure report submitted by the party to the Election Commission of India. Of the total amount, Rs 884.45 crore was spent on general party propaganda, while Rs 853.23 crore was allocated for candidate-related expenses. Around Rs 611.50 crore was spent on media advertisements that included advertisements in print and electronic media, bulk SMS campaigns, and promotional content across cable, websites, and TV channels. The party also spent Rs 55.75 crore on publicity materials such as posters, banners, hoardings, and flags to bolster its election outreach. Additionally, the BJP's expenditure on public meetings, processions, and ralliesincluding arrangements for stages, audio setups, barricades, and vehiclesstood at Rs 19.84 crore. Campaign-related travel expenses formed another significant portion of the party's budget. The travel expenditure of star campaigners authorised by the party's central headquarters amounted to Rs 168.92 crore, while Rs 2.53 crore was spent on the travel of other party leaders. The BJP, which secured a third consecutive term in the general elections, heavily relied on mass outreach and publicity campaigns, as evident from its spending patterns. Additionally, the gross receipts from the date of announcement of state elections to the date of their completion were Arunachal Pradesh Rs 5,552.57 crore, Sikkim Rs 5,552.41 crore and Odisha Rs 5,555.65 crore.
An international study has cautioned that the growing number of hydroelectric projects near glacier lakes in the Himalayas increases risks of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF). The 2023 flood that destroyed Sikkim's Teesta III project underscores the vulnerability of Himalayan hydropower infrastructure to extreme natural events exacerbated by climate change.
NIT Sikkim Junior Assistant , Technician & Other Recruitment 2025 - Apply Offline for 33 Posts
National Institute Of Technology Sikkim (NIT Sikkim) has Recruits 33 Junior Assistant , Technician & Other Posts. Candidates with Any Bachelors Degree, B.Tech/B.E, 12TH, 10TH, Any Masters Degree, MCA, PG Diploma Can Apply on or before 10-03-2025.
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BHARAT and the territory we know, but how UN, China, Nepal and Pakistan see it?
Territorial disputes, the practice of expansionism and stories of invasionthis is all history has been about and this is all what lies in the present too. Well, we have come a long way from wars and invasions, the exception is what is going on in Gaza and Ukraine, yet territorial disputes do exist at the borders. Similar is with India, we have been dealing with border issues since Independence. The Kashmir issue needs no mention, followed with Aksai Chin in Arunachal Pradesh and to those unaware, there is a part of India that even Nepal puts claim over. The map that we see, the territory that we belong to, is not necessarily acceptable to the world as well. The UN has its own version of the Indian map, Pakistan has its own, China another one and the close neighboring nation Nepal as well. Here is a detailed account of BHARAT and its territory as seen by the UN and known to some of its neighboring nations - United Nations UN depicts India as it is with all of its recognized borders, except for the disputed territories. The territories which are a matter of dispute and havent been resolved yet, are denoted with a dotted line. For example, the Line of Control (LOC) in Kashmir between India and Pakistan is shown with a dotted line. It doesnt show the disputed areas as fully aligning with any of the country. Similar is with the Falkland Islands and between Sudan and South Sudan. The UN has always maintained a neutral stance upon the disputed territories, not claiming any ones side over the sovereignty of the region. Pakistan The Kashmir issue is nothing hidden to the world, the two nations have always been in conflict due to it. China, playing the third party role, being involved here as well. Pakistan controls over 30% of Kashmir that includes Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan regions. But it extends forcible occupation over a major part of Jammu & Kashmir, approx. 78,000 sq km as its territory, including Sir Creek that is a 96 km stretch of water, a tidal estuary of the Indus river delta bordering India and Pakistan. It also claims over a part of Ladakh as its territory. Pakistan even recognizes Chinese sovereignty over Trans-Karakoram tract and Aksai Chin. Until recently in 2020, Pakistan had released a map showcasing the former princely states of Junagadh and Manavadar as a part of its territory. China India and China have never had a stable balance relationship with one another. They have turned foes, but were never really friends. There have been various instances of close encounters at the border, the most recent one in June 2020. The earliest which we have grown up reading- The Indo China war of 1962. The world knows about the expansionist policies of China, how it has claimed annexation over Taiwan and Tibet. And has always tried over gaining control of some of the territories of India, not a one or two but more than that. The Peoples Republic of China tries to access its control over a majority of Arunachal Pradesh (calling it South Tibet) and the eastern part of Jammu & Kashmir, including Aksai Chin. Until very recently it posted a map citing Sikkim as a part of Chinas territory. Time and again, China has violated the Simla Convention of 1914, and has never really agreed to it. Never has it legitimized the McMahon line. Peace is somewhere visible down the line, with the latest agreements between the two nations, to discontinue military standoff along the borders, a big move to start direct flights and begin the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra which was halted after COVID-19 pandemic. Nepal We find a cordial relationship between India and Nepal, following the history that dates back to the Satyug of Lord Ram. Mata Sita belonged to the kingdom of Mithila, now Nepal. But still, there have been border arguments among the neighboring nations. Nepal claims over a small part of Indian territory as its own. This includes the Kalapani territory near Uttarakhand and the territory of Susta in Bihar state. Other disputed territories include Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, Mechi and Tanakpur. As much as 60,000 hectares of land between India and Nepal is a matter of dispute. Kalapani, Limpiyadhura and Lipulekh have been administered by India, until recently in 2020, Nepal released a map that showed the three territories belonging to the latter. The dispute is because of lack of consensus over the Kali river. Nepal always stresses upon the territories belonging to it and India should return them. In the past, India also had border disputes with Sri Lankas Kachatheevu island and Bangladeshs South Talpatti which were resolved over time. The unsettled boundaries have always posed a major problem for India, other countries putting their claim over these. And if any of these claims get accepted, Indias map would be unrecognizable enough. Many countries including Japan, Israel, Russia and UAE recognize Indian map and its territory. And for whats unsettled, there has to be a peaceful talk on the table. Unnecessary claims, perpetration of terrorism, waging a proxy war is not the solution. Neither a scuffle every once in a while, for in the long runit can turn into a war.
Telangana registers 73.5 pc enrollments in schools in 2024; 92.3 pc children use smartphones
Hyderabad: Telangana has registered 73.5 per cent average enrollment in schools in 2024 as against 75.5 per cent, according to ASERs annual status of education report (rural) 2024. Ninety-six per cent of children have a smart phone at home in Telangana. Of them, 92.3 per cent of them can use it. Around 61.1 per cent of children did at least one education related activity online in the reference week in the State, while 82.5 per cent of children used social media in the reference week, the report said, stating that 270 villages were surveyed covering 5,306 villages across the State. Among three-year-olds, enrollment in pre-primary institutions increased from 68.1 per cent in 2018 to 75.8 per cent in 2022 to 77.4 per cent in 2024. Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Telangana have achieved near-universal enrollment for this age group. On the other hand, Meghalaya and Uttar Pradesh have the highest proportion of three-year-olds not enrolled anywhere over 50 per cent. Reading levels increased among children enrolled in standard VIII in government schools, which fell from 69 per cent in 2018 to 66.2 per cent in 2022 but then rose to 67.5 per cent in 2024. The performance of private school students remains unchanged between 2022 and 2024. State-level performance varies widely. The government schools in States such as Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Sikkim show notable improvements. However, declines were observed in Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. On an average 85.5 per cent of teachers were present in schools in Telangana in 2024 and 2022. Around 77.7 per cent of schools allocated weekly time for physical education for every class in the State compared to 45.9 per cent in 2022. Sports equipment was available in 82.3 per cent schools in Telangana in 2024 compared to 48.6 per cent in 2022, the report said. Drinking water was available in 53.2 per cent schools while usable toilets were available in 75.7 per cent schools and girls usable toilets were available in 73.7 per cent schools, the report said.
Tweak to green nod OK'd, work set to start on Teesta project destroyed in 2023 flash floods
An expert panel from the environment ministry has conditionally approved the amendment of the green clearance for Sikkim's 1,200 MW Teesta Hydroelectric Project Stage-III. The revised plan includes redesigning the dam for enhanced resilience, following its destruction by flash floods linked to a glacial lake outburst in October 2023.
Expert panel clears plan to rebuild washed away Teesta dam in Sikkim
The expert committee recommends reconstructing Teesta-3 dam in Sikkim with stronger concrete structure and improved early warning system
Sunanda K. Datta-Ray | Twist in American Dream: Will Trump raj help India?
If a cartoon were to sum up initial reactions to Donald Trumps second coming, its caption should surely repeat that old gag: Stop the world, I want to get off! Perhaps not quite. The 47 th US President does crave the worlds adulation even if withdrawal from WHO and the Paris climate agreement appear to begrudge any of the service and sacrifice that leadership also entails. In a sense, he and Narendra Modi face not dissimilar dilemmas. Both are political outsiders. Both exalt the nitty-gritty of routine administrative responsibilities with grand notions of personal consequence. Neither shows any trace of the humility on which a silver-haired woman bishop dwelt as an essential component of leadership when speaking at the Washington National Cathedral as part of Mr Trumps inaugural ceremonial. On the contrary, the US President publicly denounced Bishop Mariann E. Budde, leader of Washingtons Episcopal Diocese, as a so-called bishop and radical left hard-line Trump hater. Like Mr Modi, Mr Trump too explicitly claims a super-human, indeed a divine, mandate. Being neither historically nor institutionally entitled to such grandeur, they are trying to invent it. Mr Modis unfailingly resplendent sartorial presence conjures up an ancient sacrosanct monarchy. Mr Trumps territorial ambitions extending to Canada and Mexico, Panama and Greenland recall another head of state who redesignated himself His Excellency, President for Life, Field Marshal Al Hajj Doctor Idi Amin Dada, VC, DSO, MC, Lord of all the Beasts of the Earth and Fishes of the Sea and Conqueror of the British Empire in Africa in General and Uganda in Particular. Actually, the splendour of that bombast is not too far a cry from the US Senates initial proposal to designate the ruler His Highness, the President of the United States of America, and the Protector of their Liberties. The first US vice-president, John Adams, was comfortable with that as also with sonorous references to His Elective Majesty and His Mightiness. That may have been partly because American notions of the presidency were shaped by their perception of King George III as an absolute ruler. Americans didnt realise that the power he wielded didnt flow from any divine right or from his mothers ceaseless urging: George, be a King! It was the handiwork of lobbyists known as The Kings Friends. Even a future US founding father like Benjamin Franklin swelled with monarchical pride when he attended King George IIIs coronation in 1761. Burning royal effigies and toppling kingly statues came much later. So did the presidential rhetoric of Abraham Lincolns Gettysburg Address; Franklin D. Roosevelts heady declaration that The only thing we have to fear is fear itself; and John F. Kennedys noble exhortation to Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country. All that goes with an egalitarian George Washington setting the tone for republican disdain for frills and fancies by accepting the simple, no-nonsense title of President of the United States. Like Winston Churchill who rejected a dukedom, taking pride instead in being The Great Commoner, a plain President was far more appropriate for the leader of a world in which one out of every ten persons languish below the poverty threshold, children, representing the future of mankind, account for more than half of the worlds poorest inhabitants, and despite the ramshackle glitter of tycoons like Mukesh Ambani, 24 per cent of the global poor are Indian. Not that Indias movers and shakers are unaware that the indigent world can be clothed out of the trimmings of the rich, citing Oliver Goldsmith in She Stoops to Conquer . On April 4, 2011, even before New Delhi sent directives to state governments, the late Sudarshan Agarwal, former governor of Uttarakhand and Sikkim, wrote to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, saying: It is with deep anguish that I am writing this letter as a concerned citizen of this country about the colossal wastage of food at weddings and other social functions in the country. It is painful to see 100 dishes being served to 1,000 or more guests at several of these weddings Last year, a minister in Karnataka had a wedding reception for 30,000 guests in a pandal where he had put 350 air-conditioners. I sincerely feel that we need to revive the guest control order which limits the number of dishes that can be served at dinners/lunches and also limits the number of guests. He added: Unfortunately, ministers themselves have not set an example. A couple of years ago, a Union minister had his daughters wedding at a heritage hotel in Jodhpur and it is reported that 60 private aircraft landed in Jodhpur carrying the invitees for the wedding. People are no fools; they understand everything. Many European leaders also fear that Mr Trumps return to the White House could mean a momentous, almost apocalyptic, shift that might disrupt alliances and play havoc with economic relations. Only Vladimir Putin, who upholds the absurd theory that the last American presidential election was stolen from Mr Trump, thinks a Trump presidency might end the Ukraine war. Other US rivals and adversaries like China, Iran and North Korea expect new tensions and heightened anti-Western agendas. Ironically, South and Southeast Asia, a region that includes many US allies, partners and friends, take a more placid view of Mr Trumps return. It does not arouse the same strong emotions in Japan and South Korea or among Asean members that it does in some Nato countries. The fawning pleasure with which Indias media lapped up evidence of external affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar accorded the honour of a prominent front-row seat at the inauguration displayed no disapproval of Mr Trumps autocratic tendencies and contempt for liberal internationalist ideals. Being almost as transactional as the Republican Party chief himself, the region has long conducted relations with Washington on the basis of common interests rather than common values. Indians expect Mr Trump to be even more committed than Joe Biden to the Quad and the AUKUS nuclear agreement with Australia and Britain. India hopes for increased trade, improved technology transfer and, above all, greater scope for young men and women whose training and skills can benefit a US seeking to realise Mr Trumps Make America Great Again dream. Despite the racist comments of white supremacists, California-born Telugu Brahmin Usha Chilukuri Vance, a practising Hindu and the first ethnic Indian US Second Lady, could be the forerunner of a future that also means more wrangling over H-1B visas whose holders Norman Matloff, professor of computer science at a California university, famously called indentured servants. That twist of the American Dream augurs interesting times.
D R Thapa re-elected as Sikkim BJP president
GANGTOK, Jan 25: D R Thapa has been unanimously re-elected as president of the Sikkim BJP following the organisational elections held here on Saturday, the party said.He has been re-elected for the 2024-2027 term, it said.The declaration was made by Election Officer V Muraleedharan, who is also the BJPs northeast co-coordinator. In the elections held []
Centre invites 250 ASHAs for Republic Day ceremony
NEW DELHI: Around 250 ASHA workers or Accredited Social Health Activists, who form the backbone of Indias health schemes, are special guests at the 76th Republic Day Ceremony on Sunday. To commemorate the outstanding contributions of ASHA, the central government has invited around 250 ASHA along with their spouses from various states as special guests to the Republic Day Ceremony. The ASHAs are among the 10,000 special invitees, who will be witnessing the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path on January 26. The invitees include school students as well. Interacting with the ASHAs at an event here Saturday, the Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava said that ASHAs are the backbone of health schemes in the country. Appreciating their immense contribution to the society, she highlighted that notable success in the TB elimination mission is significantly attributed to the grassroots level work done by the ASHAs. The invites to ASHAs as special guests at the Republic Day parade not only uplifts the morale of these dedicated health workers but also underscores the value of their contributions, acknowledging their essential role. It highlights the significance of their work in advancing public health across India, reinforcing the vital impact they have in improving healthcare access and outcomes, according to a Union Health Ministry statement. Srivastava also described ASHA, whose work was recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2022, as a display of Indias Nari Shakti. Some of the ASHAs had come from remote areas and for some it was the first visit to the national capital. There are currently over 10.29 lakh ASHAs, who serve as the first point of contact in India's healthcare system, acting as a crucial link between communities and essential health services. They play a pivotal role in various government health initiatives, such as maternal and child healthcare, promoting immunisation, and supporting the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program. ASHAs are also instrumental in addressing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases and contribute to a wide range of other national health programs. Through their efforts, they are saving countless lives and ensuring that critical health interventions reach those in need, particularly in remote and underserved areas, the statement said. The ASHAs will also get a chance to visit Delhis iconic landmarks. They will visit the National War Memorial at Kartavya Path with a stop at India Gate allowing them to pay homage to the nation's martyrs and will witness the 76th Republic Day parade on Sunday. Apart from the ASHAs, as many as 100 children, who are winners of Veer Gatha 4.0, a joint initiative by the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Education as part of Republic Day celebrations, will also be part of the celebrations. Of the total 100 winners, 66 are girls. The winners on Saturday were felicitated by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. According to the Union Education Ministry, for the first time, three government school band teams will perform in the Republic Day Parade. School bands from Jharkhand, Sikkim, and Karnataka will perform at the parade in Vijay Chowk. Jharkhand girls from rural underprivileged backgrounds will perform at the Rostrum opposite Presidential dais.
Republic Day 2025: Important Advisory for Flyers Check These Details Before Traveling!
NEW DELHI: Passengers planning to travel from Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport between January 19 and 26, 2025, should prepare for significant flight restrictions. The measures have been implemented to ensure security during the Republic Day celebrations, and thousands of travelers may be impacted during this period. According to the airport operator, flight arrivals and departures will be completely halted during specific hours. In a recent announcement on X (formerly Twitter), Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) stated, As per the NOTAM issued for Republic Day from 19th to 26th Jan, no flights would be arriving or departing from Delhi Airport between 10:20 am to 12:45 pm IST. For updated flight information, passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines. The restrictions will remain in place until January 26, affecting Delhis IGI Airport, which is the busiest in India, handling approximately 1,300 flight movements daily. Travelers are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and check with their airlines to avoid any inconvenience. Republic Day Parade Highlights This year, 35 individuals from the Northeast have been invited to witness the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The group includes women entrepreneurs, National Award winners, and beneficiaries of flagship government initiatives. Members of self-help groups actively working on environmental protection, nutrition, sanitation, and gender empowerment are also part of this delegation. Out of these 35 guests, eight are from Assam, 22 from Sikkim, and five from Meghalaya, theofficials said. The theme for the Republic Day Parade tableaux is ' Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas ', emphasizing Indias heritage and development. A total of 15 states and union territories will participate in the parade with their displays, including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chandigarh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Dadar Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu. Meanwhile, to ensure a safe and secure Republic Day celebration on January 26, Delhi Police has tightened security in the capital from January 18 to February 1. As part of these precautions, authorities have banned the use of drones and other small flying devices in Delhi to minimize potential risks. Anyone found violating these rules will be taken to court.
113 roads along China border okayed
113 road projects worth 2,420.97 crore were sanctioned in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand for 2023-24. This is under the Vibrant Village Programme along the India-China border. Additionally, the third phase of the India-China Border Roads project began in Ladakh. The Union government approved the VVP scheme for selected villages in various border districts.
Danny Denzongpa, renowned for his versatile Bollywood roles, made a groundbreaking shift into business by founding Yuksom Breweries in 1987. The venture, headquartered in Sikkim, now ranks as India's third-largest beer company, producing 11 popular brands. Known for outmanoeuvring industry titan Vijay Mallya in the northeast market, Dannys breweries contribute 100 crore annually to the regions economy.
Mithai Khayenge?: Sikkim Boy's Kind Gesture Leaves Internet Teary-Eyed
Urgen, a young boy from Sikkim, is winning hearts on the Internet for his simple gesture towards a tourist visiting his village.
Add these 15 enchanting experiences to your bucket list in 2025, that are worth a lifetime!
Let the feeling of the New Year sink in, it is time to get on to some new experiences. Those that you shall add to your already pending bucket list, those that you will just feel like hopping on to right now. Here are some, right in India. You know the destinations, but the glory of the place is worth to be experienced at a certain point of time. Thus, we have got it prepared for you. The long weekends in 2025 shall be utilized well. Come, check it- Kumbh Mela The first event that you got to experience at the beginning of the year is to visit the Mahakumbh. After a gap of 12 years, in 2025 the Mahakumbh is going to take place at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This religious event is the largest human gathering on the planet. Take a dip on the day of the Shahi snan in the Ganges, visit the camps of various spiritual leaders and be a part of the once in 12- year experience at the Mahakumbh 2025. It will begin on Jan 13 th 2025 and will continue till Feb 26, 2025. Do not miss the event of the year! Rann Mahotsav The ongoing Rann Mahotsav will continue till March 15, 2025. Celebrate the natural bliss of the White desert with the vivid cultural heritage of Gujarat. You can enjoy a comfortable stay at the Tent city and enjoy various activities and adventures, the music and folk dance performances of the local artists, the traditional crafts of artisans, and relaxation with meditation at spa. During the Rann Mahotsav, the beauty of Kutch is a splendid experience. You should go for it now, before the festival ends! Attractive packages are available for an amazing visit. Experience Holi as a local India is on a festival spree every year. Apart from all the festivals, the Holi fervor is always on a high. Why not celebrate the best of Holi at the most known places of the country? Be one with the local community and enjoy the festival of colors like never before. You can head out for- the Bra ki Holi in Mathura, around the Banke Bihari and Gopinath temple in Vrindavan, the Barsane ki Holi near Mathura, the ultimate experience of Holi in the Pink city of Jaipur, the best eve of Holi, i.e. Holika dahan in Udaipur, on the shores of Lake Pichola in Pushkar, in the idyllic spot Varanasi and near the Golden temple of Goddess Durga in Amritsar. Plus, it is a long weekend at the time of Holi this year. So you just cannot miss at any cost. The Taj Mahal at sunrise or on full moon Its a spectacular experience to visit the Taj Mahal. But have you ever imagined the beauty of the monument at sunrise and on a full moon night? It would be one of a kind. For a breathtaking sight where the rays of the sun fall on the white marble structure, when there is no flock of visitors seen, get out early and gaze at the Taj Mahal. And if you want to see it in the moonlight, then also you have got a chance. For, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) keeps the Taj Mahal open for visitors five days a month after sunset. Go for it to witness the magical hues right in front of your eyes. Spot the Bengal tiger The big roaring cat is a sight to behold. And the Indian subcontinent has a significant number to its tiger population. Add the unique thrilling safari experience to your bucket list now. Well, the best place to spot the Bengal tiger would be the Sunderbans in West Bengal. Get on the boat safari to look out for the Bengal tiger that lives in the semi-aquatic lifestyle in the Sundarbans, the Worlds largest Mangroves. Yet you can look out for other wildlife sanctuaries, national parks and tiger reserves in India. These include the Bandhavgarh National Park, Kanha National Park, Ranthambore, Tadoba, Pench and the Jim Corbett. At the Golden temple One of the most serene places you will ever be at, the Golden temple. Visit the Golden temple to attend the Palki ceremony and be a part of the Langar for lunch. The Palki ceremony is commenced at pre-dawn when the Sikh holy book is carried in a palanquin from the Alakh takht inner chamber (where it rests at night) to the main sanctum of the temple. The devotees sing bugles and devotional songs. The practice is reversed at night. It will be the best sacred visit of your life. Every day, a langar is organized for the worshippers and pilgrims at the Golden temple. Go out to help in the kitchen preparing the meals, and in the end seat in the lines to experience the most beautiful meal for the day. Serving at the Golden temple is the ultimate human experience one can ever have. Ganga Aarti at Haridwar On the banks of the river Ganges, the evening prayer is the most blissful religious ritual to be a part of. Thousands of pilgrims assemble to witness the Ganga Aarti at the Har-ki Pauri Ghat. It is organized every morning and evening by the Ganga Sabha. Offering of Panchamrut and flowers is made to Ganga while chanting the Ganga Lahari Mantra. Lastly, a special song for Ganga can be heard in the speakers when Aarti is offered by lighting the copper diya. It can be the most overwhelming experience of your lifetime. Night Kayaking in Andaman The Bioluminescence effect of the Andaman Islands is surreal. And it is only experienced at night by Kayaking in the calm waters with dense mangroves around. The best time to go for Kayaking is during no-moon or full moon phase. It also takes place on other days, only the bioluminescence effect is reduced by 20-30% in comparison to the dark days. The luminescent plankton glows blue in the depths of the waters of Andaman sea. You can even stargaze on the Kayak, at the best adventure of your life. The best places to opt for Night Kayaking include Port Blair, Havelock, Baratang, Neil Island and the Ross Island. Get onto the Kayak to immerse yourself in the spell-bounding luminescent night! Stay in the traditional homestays Homestays are quite in trend these days, with visitors looking for that home feeling while travelling. There are many traditional homestays in various parts of India offering the most comfortable, cozy, homely experience. They serve you with the best local cuisine with a unique cultural experience. You can also look for some homestays that are reviving the rich heritage of India. The best traditional homestays of India date back to five decades and more. Ones you can experience include- Slow Garden (Ladakh), Krishnayan Heritage (Gwalior), Shahpura Bagh (Shahpura), Ranjit Svasa (Amritsar), Philipkuttys farm, Kumarakom (Kerala), Premkunj (Udaipur), Jungle Lodge (Shimla) and many more homestays that are being opened by people in their old homes for visitors. An Ayurvedic retreat The land of Rishi Patanjali, yoga and Ayurveda, India has a variety of hosts offering you the ultimate Ayurvedic wellness. There is a long list of Ayurvedic rejuvenation centers and resorts in the country. Why not try something new and go for an Ayurvedic holiday for a therapeutic experience. The experts and doctors treat you with therapies even for some acute medical conditions, with meditation and yoga and the best from Ayurveda. So, basically it will be a peaceful, healthy and healing trip. The best in India are- Ananda in Himalayas (Uttarakhand), Ashok Country Resort (New Delhi), The Leela (Udaipur), Devaaya, The Ayurvedic and Nature Cure Center (Goa), Somatheeram Ayurveda resort and Kairali Ayurvedic Health Village, both in Kerala. Explore famous food streets Well, who doesnt love the Indian street food. Say the name of the dish and everyone is up for it. You might always go down the street in your city, but have you ever experienced the delight of eating at some of the famous Indian streets? Its so deliciously amazingyou should try visiting these food streets for a real good culinary experience of your lifetime. Know the delicacies, culture and cuisine of India through its street food. Sarafa bazaar (Indore), Chowk and Aminabad (Lucknow), Old city and Majithia road (Amritsar), Paranthevali gali (Delhi), Gol Park (Kolkata), VV Puram, Mosque road, Avenue road and Church street (Bengaluru), Muhammad Ali road (Mumbai), Manek chowk (Ahmedabad) and Chartori gali (Bhopal) are some of the famous food streets of India that are a heaven for a food lover. Encounter the elusive Snow leopard In the high altitude mountains of the Himalayas, you can track down the striking beauty of the Snow leopard. It can camouflage easily in the snow, with patterned spots and thick fur, often called as mountain ghosts by the locals. An estimated 718 snow leopards are left in the Himalayan region. Watching the big cat is the most thrilling experience to have. Coming month of February is the best month to spot them, when they come out to lower regions in search of prey. Visit the Himalayan states of Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Sikkim to catch the sight of the elusive cat species. Explore the stars, sky and space Get a step ahead of star gazing, know more about the stars, the sky and the space. You will know space exploration, astronomy and associated technologies, and you will be surprised to know Indias advancement. Visit the biggest planetariums in the country, even the best in Asia for an educational and entertainment treat. Delve into one of a kind experience that you will have at- The Birla Planetarium in Kolkata (also known as Taramandal which is the largest in Asia and 2 nd largest in the world), Hyderabad and Chennai are the top most. Others include the Nehru Planetarium (Mumbai), Guwahati Planetarium (Assam) and the Ahmedabad Planetarium (Gujarat). Celebrate Cinema at the iconic Raj Mandir All things glamour and iconic at the Raj Mandir cinema of Jaipur. The Raj Mandir Cinema has become symbolic with time. It is often called as Cinema ka Mandir. The meringue shaped auditorium is in business since 1976. Movie premieres are a different feel at Raj Mandir, which is well equipped with the latest sound and technology. Designed in the art moderne style, it has art deco chandeliers and velvet drapes adding to the charm of the interiors here. Not to forget the jasmine scented air conditioning of the cinema theatre. Thus, experience the best of cinema at the Raj Mandir! Ride Kettuvallam in Kerala To those who dont know the Kettuvallam is a traditional houseboat in Kerala. It is made up of bamboo, coir and wood, that reflects Keralas authentic craftsmanship. Basically, it is now a cruise that sails in the backwaters of Kerala. With lagoons, lakes and canals forming the network of water channels in Kerala, the Kettuvallam is worth the ride. You can also watch out the sunset and enjoy a delicious supper that is rich in Kerala cuisine. Do not miss your leisurely Kettuvallam cruise in Kerala. Thus, with this you can experience the best of India in 2025, that you will remember for a lifetime. And when you are done, you can tick this off your bucket list. Happy travelling and Happy experiences!
Indias first organic aquaculture cluster launched in Sikkim
After achieving the tag of the countrys first organic farming state, now Sikkim is moving towards another feat the countrys first organic aquaculture cluster. The Union Minister Husbandary and Fisheries Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh launched Indias first organic fisheries cluster in Sikkim and laid the foundation stone of projects worth Rs. 50 crores in Guwahati on Tuesday. The cluster will be antibiotic, chemical and pesticide-free which would help Sikkim to position itself as a pioneer in sustainable aquaculture. Organic fisheries cluster focuses on an ecologically healthy fish farming system avoiding the use of harmful chemicals, antibiotics and pesticides will tap into global Eco-conscious markets with support of financial and technical assistance from NABARD, said Singh in a statement. He further explains that the consumers get aware of the environmental impact of the products they regularly use, they will soon shun it. Hon'ble Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, in presence of Honble MoS, MoFAH&D, GoI, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, and Honble MoS, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Minority Affairs, Shri George Kurian and other dignitaries, pic.twitter.com/6yP1sOzXhu Department of Fisheries, Min of FAH&D (@FisheriesGoI) January 6, 2025 He further said that organic products typically attract a premium in both domestic and international markets. According to different estimates, the eco-conscious market size is valued at around USD 30 billion in 2024 to USD 105.26 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 22.4% during the forecast period. By establishing an organic aquaculture cluster, Sikkim could tap into this growing market and export of organic fish and fish products. The Government of Sikkim has already embraced organic farming, which has helped in building a strong reputation for sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices. Introducing organic fisheries and aquaculture will align with the states broader vision of promoting organic, sustainable, and environmentally friendly practices across all sectors. Organic clusters will ensure minimal environmental pollution and prevent damage to aquatic ecosystems, contributing to sustainable fish production practices. In addition to it, Singh has also inaugurated and laid the foundation for 50 key projects worth Rs. 50 crores under Pradhan Mantri MatsyaSampada Yojana (PMMSY) covering all North East Region States except Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram. The fisheries and aquaculture sector plays a critical role in Indias economy, providing livelihoods to approximately 3 crore fishers and fish farmers. India is the worlds second-largest fish producer, contributing 8% to global output, ranks second in aquaculture production, leads in shrimp production and export, and is the third-largest producer in capture fisheries.
Centre launches countrys first organic fish cluster in Sikkim
It added that the organic fisheries cluster focuses on an ecologically healthy fish farming system avoiding chemicals, antibiotics, and pesticides
Meghalaya railway projects in limbo
By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Jan 6: There is no progress in any of the proposed railway projects in Meghalaya, unlike other landlocked tourist destinations such as Sikkim which are close to being put on the countrys railway map The Byrnihat project has been stalled for years while plans to connect Shillong with railways have gone [] The post Meghalaya railway projects in limbo appeared first on The Shillong Times .
Sikkim Governor visits Doklam, interacts with Army personnel
Interacting with the Army personnel, the Governor expressed gratitude towards the soldiers' relentless commitment to safeguard the nation
Union ministers to oversee BJP state chief polls
NEW DELHI: The BJP on Thursday appointed senior leaders, including key Union ministers, as election officers for the selection of state presidents and members of the national council. In a strategy to align state presidential polls with the national president election, the BJP assigned Union ministers to oversee elections in 29 states and UTs. Union minister Bhupendra Yadav has been appointed as the election officer for Gujarat, Shivraj Singh Chouhan for Karnataka, Piyush Goyal for Uttar Pradesh, Manohar Lal Khattar for Bihar and Dharmendra Pradhan for MP. Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat overseeing elections in Assam, Jitendra Singh in Himachal Pradesh, Prahlad Joshi, in Kerala, and George Kurian in Meghalaya. Other appointments include Kiren Rijiju for Sikkim, G Kishen Reddy for Tamil Nadu, Kumari Shobha Karandlaje for Telangana, Juel Oram for Tripura, and Sarbananda Sonowal for Arunachal Pradesh. According to the BJPs constitution, the election process for the national president will progress after at least 50% of state presidents and other office-bearers are elected.
'The Indian Army, despite facing extreme weather conditions -- from searing heat in the summer in Rajasthan to bone-chilling cold in the winter in Ladakh, J and amp;K, Himachal, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim -- remains steadfast in its duty.'
NHPC Receives Rs 250 Crore Insurance Amount For Teesta Power Station Damages
The government-run hydro power producer had last week revised the loss incurred at the Teesta-V Power Station in Sikkim due to flash floods.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned about fresh snowfall with rain in Jammu Kashmir, Ladakh, Muzaffarabad, Gilgit-Baltistan and other parts of North India on January 5. Scattered rain with snowfall is predicted in these regions from January 2 to January 4. This might continue till January 6. Also, there will be development of cold day conditions in Northwest plains and Central India with moderate isolated showers. Regions to face cold weather and dense fog IMD notified that dense fog will occur in areas of Haryana, Odisha, Punjab and Chandigarh till early morning today. It is anticipated in Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Sikkim and Madhya Pradesh for the next 24 hours. While, in the northeastern regions of Mizoram, Tripura, Nagaland, Assam and Meghalaya till January 6. Northeast will also face ground frost weather till tomorrow. Similarly, isolated cold day conditions will be observed in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. The northwest India will have a rise in the minimum temperatures by two to three degrees in the coming five days. The central and eastern India will face a temperature change probably after three days. Fresh snowfall in Himachal Pradesh According to the Met Department, the mid and high-hill areas of Himachal Pradesh are likely to receive fresh snowfall and downpour from today. The snowfall can intensify from January 4 to January 7. Heavy rain will follow between January 5 and January 6. The low hill areas and plains will continue with the dry weather. The weather was dry yesterday, however cold wave was observed in Sundernagar, dense fog in Kangra and Mandi and a moderate fog in Una. Temperature will fall by 4-5 degrees. Weather in Delhi/NCR There will be a partly cloudy weather in the national capital with moderate fog and smog. The regions in the outskirts will have dense fog in the morning. At the time of evening and night, smog along with shallow fog will be there. Delhi is already experiencing intense cold weather conditions since three days. Rain and thunderstorms might hit the NCR region. These significant changes in weather are caused due to western disturbances. According to the IMD, the western disturbance can be seen as a cyclonic circulation over East Afghanistan in lower tropospheric levels. Due to which, isolated to scattered rainfall/snowfall is expected in the Western Himalayan region. Thus, the weather is likely to intensify for a couple of days with snow and rainfall in the north and cold waves in other regions.
Billed as the super year of elections, 2024 saw 64 nations across the world going to polls. In India, there were the Lok Sabha election, eight assembly elections and several bypolls. The general elections held in April-May saw Narendra Modi-led BJP segueing into a third consecutive term, albeit with lesser numbers. For the first time, the saffron party, which wielded an undisputed majority in the last two terms, had to onboard two coalition partners Chandrababu-led TDP and Nitish Kumar-led JD(U). The mandate also proved to be a leveller in the countrys politics, maintaining the BJPs dominance while giving more teeth to the Opposition. The BJP secured 240 seats and the main Opposition Congress one seat short of 100. Among the assembly elections, the verdicts cemented the positions of incumbent governments in five states Maharashtra, Haryana, Jharkhand, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim. Curiously, the November verdict in Maharashtra saw Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his deputy Devendra Fadnavis switch roles, but not without high drama. In Jharkhand, Hemant Soren consolidated his image as the states true tribal leader despite the rival camps outsider taunts during election campaigns. In October, Nayab Singh Saini too proved his mettle in Haryana. The same month saw Jammu and Kashmir where all elections were suspended since the scrapping of Article 370 in August 2019 going to polls once again after the hiatus, catapulting an initially hesitant Omar Abdullah to the chief ministers chair. In Odisha, the regional superpower BJD faced a crushing defeat under the BJP juggernaut. The five-time CM Naveen Patnaik was ousted after an uninterrupted 24-year rule. The Congress camp saw two firsts Rahul Gandhi, who won the Wayanad and Rae Bareli seats, assumed the role of Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. The ensuing bypoll in Wayanad marked Priyanka Gandhi Vadras entry in electoral politics. Uttar Pradesh Ram temple consecration, mandir-masjid rows The year opened on a religious note with the consecration of Ram Lalla in the Ayodhya temple in January. Later, an ASI report established the presence of a pre-existing Hindu temple under the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi, and the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Eidgah dispute cropped up as well. Mid-February saw massive student protests over paper leak during the constable recruitment exam. In March, the death of jailed gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari due to cardiac arrest grabbed the headlines. Two communal flare-ups, one at Bahraich in October and another at Sambhal in November shook the state. In the last leg, a sitting HC judge caused flutter with his political speech. Maharashtra A complete political turnaround The highlight of the year was the MahaYuti alliances landslide victory in the assembly elections, just six months after a drubbing in the Lok Sabha polls. The Opposition Maha Vikas Agadi (MVA) had won 30 out of the 48 parliamentary seats during the general elections. But in a complete turnaround during the Assembly polls, the MahaYuti consisting of the BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawars NCP faction secured 230 out of the 281 seats. In contrast, the MVA comprising the Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT) and the NCP (SP), could garner only 46 seats. Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as CM for a third. time. Jharkhand Champais fallout, Kalpanas rise Jharkhand plunged into a political crisis when CM Hemant Soren was jailed in a graft case. Two results ensued: Champai Soren, who held the fort, was disenchanted when Hemant wrested back power after his release, and joined BJP. Two, the state saw the rise of a new woman tribal leader in Hemants wife Kalpana Soren. The year also saw the launch of Mukhyamantri Maiyan Samman Yojana, under which all women aged 21-50 years receive an aid of Rs 2,500 a month. West Bengal Where the mind is without fear At the stroke of the midnight hour on August 15, thousands of people thronged the streets of West Bengal, with songs of resistance and calls for justice for the trainee doctor of RG Kar Hospital, who was raped and murdered while on duty. The brutal murder at a government hospital finally restored the voice of a population that had for long remained complicit to enduring violence. An entire generation of disenfranchised people stormed into the streets yearning for a life without fear. What came about was a watershed, surrounding the question of women and workplace security, exposing the rot proliferating the system. As the year turns to a close, much of that zeal has dissipated into the monotony of injustice. The CBI, the flag-bearers of justice, is yet to chargesheet some of the key accused in the RG Kar rape-murder. Jammu and kashmir High poll percentage amid dip in militancy The first assembly election after the abrogation of Article 370 saw an unprecedented poll percentage of 63.9%, as people overwhelmingly came out to vote without fear. This was also the first election since 1990, that was bereft of boycott calls from militants or separatists. The Valley also saw further decline in militancy compared to the previous years, though two major militant attacks on civilians took place: In June, militants attacked a pilgrim bus in Reasi, killing nine persons. In October, terrorists stormed into a construction site of AFCO Infra in Ganderbal, killing seven people. The security forces killed one militant in an encounter. Stone peltings have dropped significantly. As 2024 draws to a close, the Valley is facing a severe power crisis in the bone-chilling cold of Chilai Kalan, the 40-day harsh winter period. Punjab Setbacks mark political landscape, SAD story Punjabs political landscape was marked by an upheaval, with the Aam Aadmi Party facing setbacks in Lok Sabha and civic polls despite key bypoll victories. Congress dominated, winning seven of 13 LS seats, while AAP secured three. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) faced internal rebellion, with leader Sukhbir Singh Badal undergoing religious penance mandated by the Akal Takht, and narrowly missing the bullet shot by a former militant. Farmers intensified protests demanding a legal guarantee for the minimum support price on crops, with marches blocked at state borders. Tardy paddy procurement further fuelled discontent among farmers. BJP remained ineffective, with state chief Sunil Jakhar stepping back post-poll losses. Uttarakhand Impending UCC, forest fires, drop in tiger deaths In 2024, Uttarakhand became the first state in India to pass the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, with implementation expected in January 2025. Apart from this major development, the hill state also faced a staggering rise in forest fire incidents, reporting over 21,000 cases across its 13 districts a 293% increase compared to 2023. However, this surge in forest fires had no noticeable impact on the scenic states tourism sector, which attracted 6.5 crore visitors to its hill stations and religious sites. The Himalayan state is also known for its wildlife. Uttarakhand saw a significant decline in tiger mortality in 2024, with only eight deaths reported during the year, marking a remarkable 62% drop from the 21 deaths recorded in 2023. Northeast Ganges river dolphin, Bryan Adams concert The gun did not fall silent in Manipur in 2024, even 18 months after the ethnic violence broke out. In sharp contrast, there was absolute peace elsewhere in the Northeast. The first serious effort to restore peace was initiated in Jiribam on August 1, when Meitei and Hmar leaders met at a CRPF facility, though the agreement was short-lived. What followed was a series of civilian killings and arson attacks, and irate mob attacks on homes of Imphal Valley-based legislators. There are no signs of reconciliation yet and the wounds still remain deep. Other headlines from the Northeast included the first-geotagging of a Ganges river dolphin in Assam, a Bryan Adams concert in Meghalaya, and protests against a proposed hydro-power project in Arunachal Pradesh. Himachal Of cross-votes, jungli murga, samosas & toilet tax The Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led Congress government survived a BJP bid to topple it by engineering cross-voting during the February Rajya Sabha polls. This led to the disqualification of six Congress MLAs, who later fought bypolls on BJP ticket. While Congress managed to win six of the nine seats in the bypolls, the simultaneous general elections saw BJP sweeping all four seats, and mark the political entry of Kangana Ranaut from Mandi seat. The state was hit by a financial crisis, delaying payments for 2.15 lakh employees and 90,000 pensioners in September. Some unsavoury controversies cropped up over claims of the CM prompting aides to eat the endangered jungli murga, a CID probe into the missing samosas at an official event and reports of a `25 toilet tax. Chhattisgarh A final solution to Maoist menace in Bastar Every now and then, a dozen odd bodies are recovered from the forest, riddled with bullets. The uniforms identify them as left wing extremists, unearthing their weapons, propaganda. Zero tolerance towards Maoists, the home minister declares, The country will be free from the Maoist problem by March 2026. In the remote tribal belt of Bastar, 219 Maoists were neutralised by security forces in separate encounters this year, a staggering spike from the mere 50 eliminated in 2022 and 2023 combined. Parallelly, the Nagarnar steel plant in Bastar produces over 2 MT of hot metal, in the name of sustainable industrial development. Rajasthan BJP comeback amid Gehlot-Pilot divide Rajasthan was turbulent with major political shifts. The BJP rode on its December 2023 state polls victory, but the euphoria faded by summer. Despite dominating the states 25 LS seats in the past two general elections, BJP lost 11 seats this time. Controversies plagued the government one after another. First, agriculture minister Kirori Lal Meena criticised own government, reportedly after denied a prominent cabinet position. Then, education minister Madan Dilawar drew ire for seeking DNA tests of tribals and demanding curriculum changes. In Congress camp, besides the Gehlot-Pilot divide, new factions sprang up. Haryana BJP beats anti-incumbency, creates history The BJP created history when it aced the Haryana assembly election this year and secured a third consecutive term, defeating the Congress and other regional parties. Months before, the party replaced Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar with Nayab Singh Saini, a move that helped the BJP clinch 48 seats, while Congress won 37. The election was marred by internal strife within Congress, with several senior leaders defecting to the BJP, including Kiran Choudhry and her daughter Shruti. The election also saw the political entry of wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia on Congress tickets. Bihar Nitish somersault, emergence of a new party Bihar witnessed several twists and turns in 2024. It began with Nitish Kumar taking oath as the Chief Minister for a ninth time on January 28. He snapped ties with Lalu Prasads RJD, and drifted away from the INDIA bloc, to form the government with new ally BJP. The somersault left the top Opposition leaders flummoxed ahead of Lok Sabha polls. However, NDAs tally from Bihar reduced from 39 to 30 in the LS. With the double-engine government back in power, Bihars expectations on development front ran high. The year also saw the formation of a new political entity, Jan Suraaj Party, led by former analyst Prashant Kishor. Gujarat Major tragedies, Congs Banaskantha moment Gujarat began 2024 with two tragic incidents. On January 18, a boat tragedy on Vadodaras Harni Lake claimed 14 lives including 12 schoolchildren and two teachers during a picnic. Four months later, a deadly fire at the TRP Game Zone in Rajkot on May 25 killed 28 people, mostly youths. On the political front, the BJP saw its unmistakable dominance in Gujarats 26 Lok Sabha seats crumble, with the Congress wresting the Banaskantha seat. This marked the end of its clean sweep streak in the state since 2014. The loss came after a fiercely contested election, marked by internal turbulence and strategic defections. Madhya Pradesh Factory fire, jumbo deaths amid BJP comeback The first half of the year saw the BJP achieving its long-standing goal of winning all the 29 Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh. And understandably, the Congress faced its worst-ever defeat, failing to secure even a single seat. Additionally, a major accident at a firecracker factory in Harda resulted in 11 fatalities and injured 200 others. Other significant events during the course of the year included the deaths of 10 wild elephants in Bandhavgarh national park, possibly due to Kodo millet crop mycotoxin poisoning. The year also saw the dismantling of several major crime rings, an impact likely to be felt in 2025 as well. Longest Bridge Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, the longest bridge in India that connects Mumbai with Navi Mumbai, on January 12 . Missile test The Defence Research and Development Organisation conducted a successful flight-trial of Indias first long-range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha on November 16 Chalo india Chalo India, a global campaign that seeks to make Indian diaspora members ambassadors of Incredible India, was announced in September. Under this, 1 lakh foreign tourists will be exempted from visa fee in the coming times World heritage Moidams the mound-burial system of the Ahom dynasty in Assam in Charaideo district was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in July Classical Language In October, the Union government granted classical language status to five languages Bengali, Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, and Assamese taking the number of classical languages to 11 River-linking On December 25, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid foundation for the ambitious Ken-Betwa river linking project, which plans to transfer excess water from the Ken river to the Betwa river to address concerns of irrigation in arid Bundelkhand of Madhya Pradesh Solar mission Indias solar mission, Aditya-L1, was inserted into its orbit on January 6. On July 2, the Aditya-L1 spacecraft completed its first halo orbit around the Sun-Earth L1 point. It takes 178 days to complete a revolution around the L1 point. Narendra Modi , Prime Minister The Lok Sabha election was projected as a referendum on Modis popularity. And he strode into a third term, becoming the third longest serving Prime Minister. Rahul Gandhi , Leader of Opposition The yatras paid off. Congress improved its tally substantially in the general election, and Rahul Gandhi assumed the role of Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha for the first time. Priyanka Gandhi , Congress MP When brother Rahul relinquished his Wayanad seat to retain his mothers bastion Rae Bareli, it paved the way for Priyanka Gandhi Vadras debut in electoral politics. Devendra Fadnavis , Maharashtra CM Rivals trolled him for his Mee Punha Yein refrain in 2019. In 2022 MahaYuti govt, he had to stoop to conquer. But he emerged brighter and stronger in the November polls. Hemant Soren , Jharkhand CM Incarcerated in a graft case, fallout with a close aide who had held the fort for him, and storming back to power the 2024 chapter of his career is straight out of a story book. Omar Abdullah , J&K CM After his Lok Sabha poll debacle, when the first election in the UT was held, Omar was quite resigned, until Congress came to prod. A huge victory seated him in the CMs chair. Nayab Singh Saini , Haryana CM Anti-incumbency, farmers ire, a resurgent Congress hurdles were aplenty before the CM. Despite all, he steered the BJP into a third consecutive term, proving himself to be a worthy substitute for the veteran ML Khattar. Mamata Banerjee , Chief Minister Facing a high-octane BJP campaign in the Lok Sabha elections, the fiesty and formidable Didi proved all pollsters wrong by bettering her partys performance. She managed to retain TMCs complete dominance in Bengal polity. Akhilesh Yadav, Samajwadi Party chief Out of power for two consecutive terms, Akhilesh Yadavs Samajwadi Party clinched 37 out of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, proving that it is still a formidable force in the crucial Hindi heartland state. Eknath shinde , Duputy Chief Minister As CM, he remained the most accessible leader to public. His Ladki Bahin scheme was widely credited for the MahaYutis landslide victory in assembly polls. The win also corroborated him as the true inheritor of Balasaheb Thackerays Shiv Sena.
Flash Back 2024: We, the people!
Our Constitution is 75 years old. We adopted it on the 26th day of November in 1949, with India solemnly pledging its allegiance to the document. Our Parliament thought of debating the seminal text during the winter session to mark the occasion. The idea elicited a rare unified response from the treasury and opposition benches. However, the book eventually took a backseat as politicians bent over history books, scouring for fallibility to score points over their rivals. Hardly any value emerged from the debates; there was little introspection on the constitutional provisions and the road ahead. Instead, the two sides engaged in a circuitous war of words merely to steer their respective agendas. The brilliance of Indian Constitution perhaps lies in its awareness of its limitations. The makers of this mammoth body of work recognised their inability to conceive the interminable possibilities that the future held. Thus, they empowered the text by making it mutable, one that could adapt according to the needs of the time, as long as its founding principles remained firm and unchanged. In its 75-year journey, the Constitution has seen 106 amendments, all intended to broaden its scope and applicability. While these amendments have been crucial in addressing the changing dimensions of Indian polity, they also fostered the agendas of the ruling party of the day. And yet, when our elected representatives waged the holier than thou war on the floor of Parliament, the ghost of Dr BR Ambedkar returned to haunt them. Neither the treasury nor the opposition benches could fully spit or swallow the tenets founded by Baba Saheb. Having served no purpose, the sound and fury of the fracas eventually fizzled out. The politicos still swore by the book and pledged greater faith to it than their rivals though they forewent discussing the Constitution. And Baba Saheb won. First Amendment Act, 1951 Empowered the state to create special provisions for the advancement of socially and economically backward classes Ensured the protection of laws related to the acquisition of estates and similar matters Introduced the Ninth Schedule to shield land reform laws and other included legislation from judicial review Added Articles 31A and 31B after Article 31 Imposed three additional grounds for restricting freedom of speech and expression: public order, friendly relations with foreign states, and incitement to an offence 2nd Amendment Act, 1952 The scale of representation in the Lok Sabha was readjusted stating that 1 member can represent even more than 7.5 lakh people 7th Amendment Act, 1956 The provision of having a common High Court for two or more states was introduced Abolition of Class A, B, C and D states 14 States & 6 Union Territories were formed Introduction of UTs 9th Amendment Act, 1960 Adjustments to Indian Territory as a result of an agreement with Pakistan (Indo-Pak Agreement 1958): Cession of Indian territory of Berubari Union (West Bengal) to Pakistan 10th Amendment Act, 1961 Dadra, Nagar, and Haveli incorporated in the Union of Indian as a Union Territory 12th Amendment Act, 1962 Goa, Daman and Diu incorporated in the Indian Union as a Union Territory 13th Amendment Act, 1962 Nagaland was formed with special status under Article 371A 14th Amendment Act, 1962 Pondicherry incorporated into the Indian Union Union Territories of Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura, Goa, Daman and Diu and Puducherry were provided the legislature and council of ministers 19th Amendment Act, 1966 System of Election Tribunals was abolished and High Courts were given the power to hear the election petitions 21st Amendment Act, 1967 Sindhi language was included into 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution 24th Amendment Act, 1971 The Presidents assent to Constitutional Amendment Bill was made compulsory 25th Amendment Act, 1971 Fundamental Right to Property was curtailed 31st Amendment Act, 1972 Lok Sabha seats were increased from 525 to 545 35th Amendment Act, 1974 The status of Sikkim as protectorate state was terminated and Sikkim was given the status of Associate State of India 36th Amendment Act, 1975 Sikkim was made a full-fledged state of India 40th Amendment Act, 1976 Parliament was empowered to specify from time to time the limits of the territorial waters, the continental shelf, the exclusive economic zone and maritime zones of India 42nd Amendment Act, 1976 It is one of the most important amendments to the Indian Constitution. It was enacted by the Indian National Congress headed by Indira Gandhi then. Due to the large number of amendments this act has brought to the Indian Constitution, it is also known as Mini-Constitution. The 42nd amendment attempted to alter the basic structure of the indian constitution. For preamble For the words Sovereign Democratic Republic, the words Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic was substituted For the words unity of the Nation, the words unity and integrity of the Nation was substituted 7th Schedule: Transferred 5 Topics From State To Concurrent List Education Forests Weights & Measures Protection of Wild Animals and Birds Administration of Justice Article 51a : 10 Fundamental Duties Added For The Citizens Parliament 1. Made President bound to the advice of the cabinet 2. Allowed Centre to deploy central forces in State to deal with the conflicting situations of law and order (Article 257A) 3. Gave special discretionary powers to the speaker of the Lok Sabha and Prime Minister (Article 329A) 4. Directive Principles were given precedence over Fundamental Rights and any law made to this effect by the Parliament was kept beyond the scope of judicial review by the Court 52nd Amendment Act, 1985 Anti-defection law The 10th Schedule popularly referred to as the Anti-Defection Law was inserted; Defection has been defined as, To abandon a position or association, often to join an opposing group 61st Amendment Act, 1989 Voting age was decreased from 21 to 18 for both Lok Sabha and Assemblies polls 65th Amendment Act, 1990 National Commission for SC/ST was formed and the office of a special officer for SCs/STs was removed 69th Amendment Act, 1991 Union Territory of Delhi was given the special status of National Capital Territory of Delhi; 70-member legislative assembly and a 7-member council of ministers were formed 71st Amendment Act, 1992 Konkani, Manipuri and Nepali languages included in the Eight Schedule of the Constitution. Total official languages: 18 73rd Amendment Act, 1992 Panchayati Raj institutions were given constitutional status 86th Amendment Act, 2002 Elementary education was made a fundamental right; Free and compulsory education to kids between 6 and 14 years 88th Amendment Act, 2003 Provision of Service Tax was made under Article 268-A; Service tax levied by Union and collected and appropriated by the Union and the states 92nd Amendment Act, 2003 Bodo, Dogri (Dongri), Maithili and Santhali added in 8th schedule 95th Amendment Act, 2009 Extended the reservation of seats for the SCs/STs and special representation for Anglo-Indians in the Lok Sabha and the legislative assemblies for a further period of 10 years i.e., up to 2020 (Article 334) 97th Amendment Act, 2011 Co-operative Societies were granted constitutional status 100th Amendment Act, 2015 To pursue land boundary agreement 1974 between India and Bangladesh, exchange of some enclave territories with Bangladesh mentioned Provisions relating to the territories of Assam, West Bengal, Meghalaya in the first schedule amended 101st Amendment Act, 2016 Goods and Service Tax (GST) introduced 102nd Amendment Act, 2018 Constitutional status to National Commission for Backward Classes 103rd Amendment Act, 2019 A maximum of 10% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections of citizens of classes other than classes mentioned in clauses (4) and (5) of Article 15, i.e. Classes other than socially and educationally backward classes of citizens or the SCs/STs 104th Amendment Act, 2020 Extended deadline for the cessation of seats for SCs/STs in the Lok Sabha and assemblies from 70 years to 80. Removed the reserved seats for the Anglo-Indian community in the Lok Sabha & assemblies 105th Amendment Act, 2021 Restored state governments power to prepare Socially & Educationally Backward Classes list 106th Amendment Act, 2023 This was the womens reservation bill which reserves one-third of all seats for women in Lok Sabha, state legislative assemblies, and the Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi The changes Restored original tenure of Lok Sabha and Legislative Assemblies to five years Any changes in the basic structure of the Constitution can be made only if they are approved by the people by a majority of votes at a referendum in which at least 51% of the electorate participated. Article 368 was amended to ensure this Reversed the provision made by the 42nd amendment act that allowed the government to amend the Constitution on its wish by Article 368. 44th Amendment Act nullified this power to the government Right to Property was removed from fundamental rights (Article 31) and was made a legal right under Article 300A Replaced the term internal disturbance with armed rebellion in provisions concerning a national emergency Proclamation of Emergency can be issued only when the security or any part of its territory is threatened by war or external aggression or by armed rebellion An emergency can be proclaimed only on the basis of written advice tendered to the President or by the Cabinet Right of the media to report freely and without censorship the proceedings in Parliament and the State Legislatures Removed provisions that denied courts the authority to adjudicate election disputes involving the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, and Speaker of the Lok Sabha Colonial Vs Desi For things going wrong, dont blame British NEW DELHI: The Constitution borrows from the Government of India Act of 1935, but it differs from it substantially, too. If India inherited rule of law and due process doctrines from the British, remember that fundamental rights, accountable government, popular sovereignty and democracy are indigenous without colonial credentials. The biggest argument to counter the colonial continuity component is this: parties of all hues that fought for ridding India of the colonials briefly contested provincial polls and formed governments and passed laws while being part of the colonial state. Were the laws they passed colonial? These governments passed legislation when Indian citizens and their leaders were subject to the British colonial Constitution. They led a freedom movement against the colonials while working under the latters colonial framework. Yes, there is substantial colonial continuity. The civil service and police which were tools of colonial control did survive, and thrive, in post-colonial period. For, law and order, administration and governance, and their institutions are mandatory whether a colonial or a post-colonial is in power. Father of the Constitution BR Ambedkar had the word so many years ago: By independence, we have lost the excuse of blaming the British for anything going wrong. If hereafter things go wrong, we will have nobody to blame except ourselves. Time to remove colonial mindset in letter & spirit NEW DELHI: The second of the panch paraan Prime Minister Narendra Modi talked of on August 15, 2022 referred to discarding the colonial mindset in law and spirit. Conservatives have always argued the Constitution is a colonial document because it copied much from the Government of India Act, 1935. Some said a colonial mindset made the Constitution a prescriptive document, assuming, like the British, that Indians cannot govern themselves and need to be governed. In later years, when the BJP came to power, the Constitution underwent changes to meet its objectives by following the parliamentary process. The Constitution was amended to get rid of Article 370 in Kashmir. Havelock Island is now called Swaraj Dweep. Triple Talaq was declared unconstitutional. Simultaneously, the BJP undertook exercises to erase the colonial mindset. It Indianised names of institutions, roads, buildings, official procedures, even islands, to relieve them of colonial nomenclature. Raj Path became Kartavya Path. Subhas Chandra Bose replaced King George V at India Gate. The Navy got a new ensign. Three British-period criminal laws got Hindi names. Swarajya magazine has the last word: One problem with the Indian Constitution is that it was entirely conceived and written in a foreign language, English, which means its interpretation will also be alien to our culture even if our courts are Indian.
Sikkim's Nathula Closed For Tourists On Jan. 1 For India-China Border Personnel Meeting
Other tourist destinations like Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir will remain open to visitors.
Six tourists stranded in Sikkim due to heavy snowfall rescued
Officials recommended checking road conditions and taking necessary safety measures before setting out.
Meet woman, who became first IAS officer from Bishnoi community, studied like 'monk', secured AIR...
Pari's service in the civil services has been characterized by commitment and excellence since then. She is currently serving as a Subdivisional Officer at Gangtok in Sikkim and, prior to that, was in the capacity of Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Gas.
In 2024, India witnessed significant shifts in its political landscape with key state elections. Notable outcomes included BJP's victories in Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh, while facing setbacks in Sikkim and Maharashtra. Historic elections in Jammu and Kashmir concluded peacefully with high voter turnout.
New criminal laws, migrant issues topped MHA's 2024 reform roster; census remained 'overlooked'
NEW DELHI: Replacing the century-old criminal laws with a new set of legislations for introducing a modern and technology-driven criminal justice system, rolling out the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Act and fire-fighting to check unabated violence in Manipur kept the Union home ministry busy in 2024. Assisting the Election Commission in holding the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir without major incidents and bringing down the violence in Naxal-affected states and northeastern region are the other key highlights of the country's crucial ministry. While the population enumeration exercise Census continues to be on hold for past four years as no decision has been taken by the ministry as to when it will be carried out, the ministry created five districts in Ladakh and renamed Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar Islands as Sri Vijaya Puram during the year. The three new criminal laws -- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam -- replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Indian Evidence Act of 1872 respectively. The new laws came into effect from July 1. Home Minister Amit Shah, who piloted the legislations, said the new laws would give priority to providing justice, unlike the colonial-era laws that gave primacy to penal action. These laws are made by Indians, for Indians and by an Indian Parliament and marks the end of colonial criminal justice laws, he said. Shah said the laws were not just about changing the nomenclature but bringing about a complete overhaul. Soul, body and spirit of the new laws are Indian, he said. The new laws brought in a modern justice system, incorporating provisions such as Zero FIR, online registration of police complaints, summonses through electronic modes such as SMS and mandatory videography of crime scenes for all heinous crimes. According to home ministry officials, the new laws have tried to address some of the current social realities and crimes and are going to provide a mechanism to effectively deal with these, keeping in view the ideals enshrined in the Constitution. CAA not discriminatory, claims ministry The CAA, which was enacted in December 2019 for granting Indian nationality to persecuted Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, Parsi and Christian migrants from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan who came to India on or before December 31, 2014, was rolled out in March and the first set of 14 people were granted Indian citizenship under the law in May. Shah termed the occasion of granting Indian citizenship under the CAA as a historic day, saying the decades-long wait of those who faced religious persecution in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan is over. After the enactment in 2019, the CAA got the president's assent a few days later but the rules under which the Indian citizenship were supposed to be granted were issued only on March 11 after over a delay of four years. The passing of the CAA in 2019 sparked protests in different parts of the country with agitators terming it discriminatory. Over a hundred people had lost their lives during the anti-CAA protests or police action in various parts of the country. To allay the fears of a section of Muslims and students regarding the CAA, the home ministry, a day after the CAA rules were issued, asserted that the Indian Muslims need not worry as the new legislation would not impact their citizenship and has nothing to do with the community which enjoys equal rights as their Hindu brethren. The ministry made it clear that o Indian citizen would be asked to produce any document to prove his citizenship after this Act. Conflict in Manipur, Jammu and Kashmir Intermittent violence continues to rock Manipur , where the first bout of ethnic clash between majority Meiteis and tribal Kukis was witnessed in May 2023. Even after the death of about 260 people, injury to hundreds and displacement of thousands of people, peace continues to be elusive in the northeastern state. Though there have been efforts from the central government to bring the warring communities into negotiating table, sporadic violence continues there. Mobs set fire to the residences of several BJP legislators , one of whom is a senior minister, and a Congress MLA in various districts of Imphal Valley in November besides making a foiled attempt to storm the ancestral house of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. Seeing the fragile situation, the Centre in November reimposed the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in Manipur's six police station areas , including the violence-hit Jiribam. On December 24, the Centre appointed former union home secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla as new Manipur governor , in an apparent bid to help itself find a lasting peace. However, it is to be seen how Bhalla will walk through the difficult terrain of the sensitive state. Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a relatively peaceful assembly elections, which was held after a gap of 10 years . According to a presentation given by the home ministry to a parliamentary panel, there has been over 70 per cent decline in terror-related incidents in Jammu and Kashmir since 2019, when Article 370 was scrapped and the erstwhile state was bifurcated into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The ministry said in 2019, as many as 286 terror-related incidents were reported in Jammu Kashmir and the number came down to just 40 in 2024 (till first week of November). In 2019, as many as 50 civilians were killed in terror-related incidents and the casualty figure came down to 14 so far this year. On attacks on security forces, the home ministry said a total of 96 such incidents were reported in 2019 and it went up to 111 in 2020 but since then there has been a steady decline and the number of such attacks came down to 95 in 2021, 65 in 2022 and 15 in 2023 and five so far in 2024. About casualties of security forces, the ministry said altogether 77 security personnel were killed in various incidents in 2019. In 2020, 58 personnel were killed, 29 in 2021, 26 in 2022, 11 in 2023 and seven so far in 2024. 'Working towards a Naxal-free India' Violence perpetrated by Naxals also witnessed a decline. There has been 72 per cent less violence by Maoists while the country has seen an 86 per cent decline in deaths by Naxals in 2023 as compared to 2010. In a recent visit to Naxal-affected Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, Shah appealed to the Naxals to give up the arms and join the mainstream and said otherwise they will have to face the strong action of security forces. He said the rehabilitation of the surrendered Naxals is the responsibility of the government. Shah said the government is committed to make India Naxal-free by March 31, 2026 as a comprehensive three-pronged strategy is being adopted to free all affected areas in the country from the menace. Census not yet scheduled The work for India's much-delayed decadal census and the exercise to update the National Population Register (NPR) has not started yet, thus changing the future census cycle completely. Since 1951, the country's census was conducted at a gap of every 10 years but the census work in 2021 could not be carried out due to the COVID-19 pandemic. So far no formal announcement has been made on its next schedule. Tribal development schemes Last month, the Home Ministry made it clear that any NGO involved in anti-developmental activities, religious conversion, inciting protests with malicious intentions, linked with terrorist or radical organisations, will face cancellation of its Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 (FCRA) registration. According to the law, all NGOs receiving foreign contributions have to be registered under the FCRA or else is not allowed to accept foreign funding. The home minister last week started the process of rehabilitation of Bru tribal community members in Tripura following a quadripartite agreement signed on January 16, 2020. The pact was signed among the governments of India, Tripura, Mizoram and representatives of Bru organisations for the permanent rehabilitation of Bru migrants in Tripura. As many as 6,935 families with a population of 37,584 are being rehabilitated in 12 villages in Tripura. The Bru tribals were displaced from Mizoram following ethnic violence in lst 1990s and early 2000s. Continuing its thrust on comprehensive development of villages located in remote areas along the border with China, the government allocated Rs 1,050 crore for 2024-25 under the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) that will benefit select villages in 19 districts in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. The central government has approved the VVP as a centrally sponsored scheme on February 15, 2023, with financial outlay of Rs 4,800 crore for the financial year 2022-23 to 2025-26 for comprehensive development of the select villages in 46 blocks in 19 districts abutting the northern border.
Over 20 states' consumption spend higher than national avg: Report
Sikkim had the highest monthly per capita consumption expenditure among Indian states for 2023-24 in both rural and urban areas. Chhattisgarh had the lowest. Over 20 states and union territories recorded higher expenditure than the national average. Meghalaya had the largest urban-rural gap. Kerala had the smallest gap among states, while Lakshadweep had the smallest among union territories.
NHPC Revises Loss Incurred At Sikkim Power Station Due To Flash Flood To Rs 1,076 Crore
NHPC reported material damage of Rs 539 crore and business interruption losses of Rs 537 crore at its Teesta-V Power Station in Sikkim, with restoration contracts awarded and work progressing.
EC data on LS polls: Women outshine men again in exercising franchise
New Delhi: As many as 64.64 crore voters exercised their franchise in the Lok Sabha polls held earlier this year with women voters outnumbering men, according to statistical data released by the Election Commission on Thursday. The female voter turnout stood at 65.78 per cent as compared to 65.55 per cent for male electors, the EC said. EC functionaries asserted that such granular data is not shared by any of the election management bodies in democracies across the world. The data on Lok Sabha polls, 2024 and four assembly elections -- Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh -- held alongside parliamentary polls comes against the backdrop of allegations of non-disclosure by the EC. This suo motu initiative is to enhance the public trust that constitutes the underpinning of India's electoral system, the EC said. Referring to women participation in the polls, EC said the number of female contesting candidates was 800, compared to 726 in 2019. Maharashtra had the highest number of women contesting candidates with 111 in the fray, followed by 80 in Uttar Pradesh and 77 in Tamil Nadu. But at the same time, out of the total 543 Lok Sabha constituencies, there were 152 where there were no women candidates. A total of over 97.97 crore citizens had registered themselves as electors as compared to over 91.19 crore in 2019 -- an increase of 7.43 per cent. Out of these registered electors, 64.64 crore had cast votes in 2024, compared to 61.4 crore in 2019, the EC said. According to the poll panel, any Indian citizen who registers in the electoral roll is defined as an elector. The elector who eventually votes is called voter. Total votes polled -- using EVM and postal ballot option -- stood at 64,64,20,869. Votes polled on EVMs alone stood at 64,21,39,275, with 32,93,61,948 male voters and 31,27,64,269 female voters. A little over 13,000 registered third gender voters exercised their franchise (27.09 per cent), according to the data. Nearly 43 lakh electors used the postal ballot option to vote. The Dhubri parliamentary constituency in Assam registered the highest turnout of 92.3 per cent while Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir registered the lowest turnout of 38.7 per cent, compared to 14.4 per cent in 2019. According to the dataset issued by the EC, as many as 11 parliamentary constituencies saw voting percentage of less than 50 per cent. Repolls, the EC pointed out, were held in 40 polling stations or 0.0038 per cent of the total 10.52 lakh polling stations as compared to 540 in 2019. Referring to overseas Indian electors, EC said over 1,19 lakh such people were registered in the category, including 1.06 lakh men, 12,950 women and 13 third gender, compared to 99,844 registered overseas electors in 2019. Overseas Indian electors are those who are Indian citizens residing abroad due to various reasons and eligible to vote here. They have come to India to vote showing their original passport as a proof of identity.
Centre Scraps No Detention Policy for Classes 5, 8
New Delhi: The Centre has scrapped the no-detention policy for classes 5 and 8 in schools allowing them to fail students who do not clear the year-end exams. As per senior officials, the policy will be applicable to over 3,000 schools run by the Central government including Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and Sainik Schools. According to a gazette notification, after the conduct of regular examination, if a child fails to fulfil the promotion criteria, he shall be given additional instruction and opportunity for re-examination within a period of two months from the date of declaration of results. If the child appearing in the re-examination fails to fulfil the promotion criteria again, he shall be held back in fifth class or eighth class, as the case may be. During the holding back of the child, the class teacher shall guide the child as well as the parents, if necessary, and provide specialised inputs after identifying the learning gaps at various stages of assessment, the notification said. However, the government clarified that no child shall be expelled from any school till the completion of elementary education. The examination and re-examination shall be competency-based examinations to achieve the holistic development of the child and not be based on memorisation and procedural skills. The head of the school shall maintain a list of children who are held back and personally monitor the provisions provided for specialised inputs to such children and their progress with respect to the identified learning gaps, the notification read. Following the amendment to the Right to Education Act (RTE) in 2019, at least 18 states and Union Territories have already done away with the no-detention policy for the two classes. States and UTs that have scrapped the no-detention policy include Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Delhi, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Jammu and Kashmir.
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Shah: Northeast police must shift focus to ensure speedy justice
Agartala: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said the time has come for a change in approach of the police force with the end of insurgency in the northeast, in order to ensure that people get speedy justice. Shah, addressing the 72nd plenary of the North Eastern Council (NEC) here, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought peace in the region by inking 20 peace accords in 10 years, leading to the surrender of 9,000 armed militants. The police fought insurgency in the northeast for the past four decades. As insurgency has now ended, we need to change the approach of the force to ensure people get justice within three years of lodging FIRs, he said. The home minister also said connectivity is no longer a problem in the region, as the Centre has spent Rs 81,000 crore for rail connectivity and Rs 41,000 crore for road network in the northeastern states. Asserting that PM Modi expedited development activities in the northeast, Shah said Union ministers spent 700 nights in states of the region since the BJP-led NDA assumed power at the Centre. After the exchange of enclaves (land boundary agreements) with Bangladesh, the whole world will open for the northeast. This will change the investment ecosystem in the region, he said. The senior BJP leader also laid emphasis on the upliftment of people in rural areas by promoting vegetable cultivation, production of milk, eggs and meat. Only a hike in the GSDP (Gross State Domestic Product) is not enough for overall development. There is a need to attain self-sufficiency in vegetables, milk, eggs and meat, he said. Besides, the central government has been focusing on organic cultivation in the region, said Shah. The Centre has already constituted the National Organic Corporation Ltd to boost the sector. I urge all the CMs (in the northeast) to sign agreements with NOCL for packaging, marketing and exporting of organic products, he said. The home minister, however, said more efforts were needed to tackle narcotics smuggling in the region. Earlier in the day, Shah inaugurated the 72nd plenary session of the North Eastern Council (NEC) at Prajna Bhavan here. Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, along with governors, chief ministers of all the eight northeastern states, and senior officials, were also present at the event. The council is the nodal agency for the economic and social development of the northeastern region, consisting of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura.
Civil society outfits urge President to withdraw central forces from Siang Hydropower project survey
Hundreds of environmentalists, civil society organizations urged the President of India Droupdi Murmu to withdraw paramilitary forces deployed to quell indigenous peoples protest against proposed 11000 MW hydropower dam surveys in Siang valley of Arunachal. They said the proposed dam will cause disasters and loss of biodiversity and indigenous habitats. According to the letter written to the Murmu, over 351 concerned citizens activists, researchers, lawyers, scientists, journalists, experts, community representatives and 109 peoples organisations and environmental groups, especially from the Himalayan region appealed for immediate withdrawal of paramilitary troops in the Siang valley in Arunachal Pradesh. The Central government has made a paramilitary force deployment meant to facilitate a pre-feasibility survey for the 11000 MW Siang Upper Valley Multipurpose Project (SUMP). The project will cause the submergence of dozens of indigenous Adi tribe villages. So far villagers are protesting peacefully in their villages andno untoward incidents have been reported. Expressing solidarity with the indigenous populations of the region, the submission to the President draws attention to the fact that this will be Indias largest hydropower project. The letter goes on to highlight recent unprecedented rise in catastrophic disasters, events like cloud bursts, floods, glacial lake outbursts in Himalayan region caused thousands of deaths and massive destruction of infrastructure. Arunachal CM Khandu cites China's dam construction, bats for Siang Upper Multipurpose Project The 2013 Uttarakhand floods led to deaths of over 5000 people officially and damage to multiple hydro projects. In 2021 an avalanche in Chamoli caused catastrophic floods that destroyed hydropower infrastructure and claimed over 200 lives. In 2023, the Teesta III Dam was destroyed by a Glacial lake outburst in Sikkim. And this year in Himachal Pradesh the Malana Dam burst as it was hit by a sudden flood from upstream. The letter further highlights the proposed survey violates constitutional statutes, especially Section 5 of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act 2006. These survey is being done without the consent of the local village councils and is also a violation of constitutional statutes, states the letter. Experts say the Siang region is a global biodiversity hotspot particularly within the Dihang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve which spans across West Siang, Upper Siang, and Dibang Valley. It has one of the most biodiverse areas in the state with a wide variety of flora and fauna, including many endemic species.
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Telangana Remains Richest State by Per Capita
Hyderabad: Telangana's economy continues to expand significantly, with its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) rising to Rs 15.02 lakh crore at current prices in 2023-24 from Rs 13.11 lakh crore in 2022-23, according to the latest data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Despite the growth, the state slipped one spot to rank seventh among Indian states in terms of GSDP at current prices. At the time of its formation in 2014, Telangana's GSDP was Rs 3.91 lakh crore. Over the decade, it has surged to Rs 15.02 lakh crore, reflecting robust economic growth. At constant prices, the GSDP rose to Rs 7.93 lakh crore in 2023-24 from Rs 7.26 lakh crore the previous year. Among states, Maharashtra retained the top spot with a GSDP of Rs 40.44 lakh crore at current prices, followed by Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, West Bengal, and Rajasthan. Telangana ranked eighth at constant prices, with Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu again leading the list. Telangana continued to remain the richest state by per capita income. It has maintained its top position among major states in per capita income at current prices, reaching Rs 3,56,564 in 2023-24, up from Rs 3,12,522 in 2022-23. At the time of its formation, the state's per capita income was Rs 1,12,162. However, Sikkim and Delhi, smaller states, outperformed Telangana with per capita incomes of Rs 5,87,743 and Rs 4,61,910, respectively. At constant prices, Telangana's per capita income stood at Rs 1,83,854, ranking third among major states after Kerala and Haryana. Telangana's outstanding debt rose to Rs 3.89 lakh crore in 2023-24, compared to Rs 3.52 lakh crore in 2022-23. In 2014-15, this figure was Rs 56,398 crore. The states gross fiscal deficit increased to Rs 56,063 crore from Rs 50,147 crore, while its revenue deficit widened to Rs 4,882 crore. Interest payments on loans surged to Rs 22,408 crore in 2023-24, and pension payments rose to Rs 13,024 crore, compared to Rs 18,912 crore and Rs 11,385 crore, respectively, in the previous year. Social sector expenditure also saw significant growth, reaching Rs 1,27,123 crore in 2023-24 from Rs 1,06,855 crore in 2022-23. The states tax revenue (SOTR) climbed to Rs 1,31,029 crore in 2023-24, a substantial increase from Rs 1,10,592 crore in 2022-23. Similarly, non-tax revenue (SNTR) rose to Rs 22,808 crore from Rs 15,292 crore. Despite its impressive economic growth and high per capita income, Telangana faces challenges such as rising debt and fiscal deficits. The state government has emphasised increased social sector spending and revenue generation as key priorities to sustain its growth momentum.
DoPT allocates 2 IAS officers for Telangana
Hyderabad: The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) allocated two IAS officers of 2023 batch Saurabh Sharma and Saloni Chhabra for Telangana. These two IAS officers were among the 32 officers who were allocated for Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Kanataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Tripura, Nagaland, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. A communication in this regard was issued by DoPT Deputy Secretary Charulata Somal addressing the Chief Secretaries of the States concerned. The allocation of cadres was made on the basis of Civil Services Examination (CSE)-2023.
Sikkim University Allows One-Day Menstrual Leave Every Month For Students
Sikkim University has allowed one day menstrual leave per month for female students, according to a notification.
Sikkim University allows one day menstrual leave for female students
Gangtok: Sikkim University has allowed one day menstrual leave per month for female students, according to a notification. The Sikkim University Registrar Laxuman Sharma issued the notification to this effect on December 4 following a representation by the Sikkim University Students' Association (SUSA) last month. The Vice-Chancellor has been pleased to allow one-day menstrual leave in a month for girl/women student of Sikkim University except during university examinations, said the registrar of the central university. The leave so availed shall be adjusted with the mandatory 75 per cent attendance criteria of the classes held in a semester for examination purposes, he said.
CRICKET | Baroda smashes highest-ever T20 total for mammoth win over Sikkim
SYED MUSHTAQ ALI TROPHY | It also struck an unprecedented 37 sixes, with Bhanu Pania belting as many as 15 in his unbeaten 134; Gujarat exits despite its win over Karnataka as an inferior NRR scuttles Axar Patels teams hopes
SMAT 2024: Baroda shatter record books with belligerent batting display vs Sikkim
Baroda made history by becoming the first Indian domestic team outside the IPL to reach 100 runs within a T20 PowerPlay.
Abhishek Sharma smashes record-equalling 28-ball century in SMAT
Abhishek Sharma smashed a 28-ball century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He equaled the record for the fastest T20 century by an Indian. Baroda set a new T20 record with a massive 349 runs against Sikkim. Bhanu Pania hit an unbeaten 134 for Baroda. Baroda also hit a record 37 sixes in their innings. Punjab won their match.
Tourism ministry partners with hospitality giants for skill development, sustainability push
NEW DELHI: To make human resources in the tourism industry future-ready, the Ministry of Tourism has agreed with the country's top global hospitality chains, which will be training and mentoring the students in government-run hotel management institutions. The minister of Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that the top Indian hospitality brands had agreed to design the curriculum of state-run institutions and give training as per their requirement. We had a discussion with stakeholders keeping in mind the future requirement of human resources in the tourism industry. The meeting was held in view of potential in the sector. Our observation is that the way the industry is expanding; the requirement of trained professionals will also increase. However, the institutions are not getting students in accordance with their capacity. And the industry doesnt have the manpower. We had formed a committee to assess the gap; states were engaged and industry people were also roped in, said the minister. According to the findings of the committee report, the ministry signed a memorandum of understanding (MoUs) with the hospitality groups to impart training to the students in 21 government institutions.The ministry said that meetings with the stakeholders in the tourism sector in the last four months including travel and hotel operators had benefited immensely and all of us are very motivated. Finally, we have entered into agreements with the country's top global hospitality chains such as Taj hotels, Marriott International and Radisson Group. The groups have signed MoU with three-five institutes. They will impart training as per their requirement. They will design a curriculum for them. After on-ground training, the groups will also absorb the students. Results will be visible in the next one-two year, said Shekhawat. The government hotel management institutes various coursessix months to three years duration. Besides reducing the gap between demand and supply, Shekhawat further said that the Government is working on sustainability simultaneously. We have launched a Green Leaf Rating based on sustainability parameters like star rating for hotels and other accommodations; based on whether they are recycling the water and what system they have to conserve electricity. New projects are sanctioned according to efforts proposed for sustainability, he added. The governments are also proposing initiatives to change the behaviour of the tourists so that they can behave responsibly. Sikkim has already adopted a proposal. The tourists have to show at every checkpoint that they are carrying a bin with them in the vehicle. They will keep all trash in the bin and dump it at designated sites, Shekhawat said.
6 Killed, 15 Injured As Bus Plunges Into Gorge Near West Bengal-Sikkim Border
The accident happened between Andheri and Atal Setu, about 1 km from the Rangpo border, around 3 pm
Sikkim Democratic Front suspends J. B. Darnal for anti-party activities
The party has decided to suspend his primary membership with immediate effect till further notice, SDF vice-president (Administrative & Legal Affairs) Dev Gurung said in a statement
Centre Approves Rs 3,296 Crore Investment to Boost Tourism Infrastructure Across 23 States
NEW DELHI: The Central government has approved a significant investment of Rs 3,296 crore to develop 40 tourism projects in 23 states. This initiative aims to improve infrastructure and upgrade popular tourist destinations to meet international standards. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his excitement about the potential of tourism to drive economic growth. Tourism has the potential to bring prosperity to the lives of many. Our Government will keep focusing on enhancing Indias tourism infrastructure to ensure more people can experience the wonders of Incredible India, he said on X. The announcement came after Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, shared details of the approved projects. He said, In a huge boost for Bharats tourism sector, our government, led by PM Narendra Modi, has today approved 40 projects across 23 states under the Special Assistance to States/Union Territories for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme, to develop iconic tourist centers to global standards. The projects are expected to improve local economies and create jobs through sustainable tourism. The plan includes measures like easing congestion at popular sites, integrating new technologies, and promoting sustainability. Public-private partnerships will also be encouraged to enhance infrastructure and visitor experiences. Some of the notable projects include the Gandikota Fort, Havelock Bridge, and Pushkaram Ghat in Andhra Pradesh; the Siang Adventure and Eco Park in Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh; and the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden in Guwahati. Additionally, projects such as the development of Umiam Lake in Shillong, the Nathula Pass border experience in Sikkim, a rafting base station in Rishikesh, and the creation of an ecotourism hub in Keralas Ashtamudi backwaters are included in the plan. Minister Shekhawat emphasized that the aim of SASCI is to create world-class tourist destinations and provide a richer experience for visitors, helping showcase Indias natural, cultural, and historic beauty on a global scale. PMAY-G Scheme: 19,300 Families in Nagaland Receive New Homes Four Indian Cities Among the Fastest-Growing Urban Centers: Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Delhi-NCR Lead by 2033 Andaman & Nicobar to Launch Seaplane Services to Boost Tourism
Sikkim sends final expedition to study high-risk glacial lakes
Sikkim has initiated its final expedition to study high-risk glacial lakes, focusing on flood mitigation strategies in sub-zero temperatures. The team aims to develop robust measures after a recent Glacial Lake Outburst Flood caused significant devastation, exploring proposals such as lowering lake levels and retention structures.
Incubation centres for bamboo-based startups in Northeast soon
A Sikkim-based university focused on industry-immersive education has partneredwiththe North East Cane and Bamboo Development Council for the initiative
