Why is Pushkar Singh Dhami shielding minister Rekha Arya, asks Congress
Congress alleged that Arya's continuation as a minister and the appointment of BJP leader Dushyant Gautam as the governor of Sikkim despite his name being linked to the Ankita Bhandari murder case were examples of moral compromises by the ruling establishment in the poll-bound state.
Nagaland Cricket Stadium: Mizoram's Chinmay Sutar became only the second batter in Ranji Trophy history to hit a quadruple century, while Delhi captain Ayush Badoni struck a double hundred and India batters Sarfaraz Khan and Rajat Patidar notched up centuries on an eventful day two of the second round of the Ranji Trophy on Monday. Playing in just his second first-class match, Sutar remained unbeaten on 400 against Nagaland in a Plate group game at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium in Sovima, and become only the second Indian to score a quadruple hundred in first-class cricket. The left-hander went past Prithvi Shaw's 379 to post the second-highest individual score in the history of the competition. Only Bhausaheb Nimbalkar's unbeaten 443 for Maharashtra against Kathiawar in Pune in 1948-49 remains ahead of him. Sutar was on 392 at tea and brought up his 400 in the 155th over, prompting Mizoram to declare at 581/9. He faced 517 balls in all and struck 46 fours and seven sixes. Mizoram, who ended day one on 331/5, slipped to 391/9 and Sutar was on 231 when last man Lalrempuia Chhakchhuak joined him. The pair put on an unbroken 190-run stand to take the game away from Nagaland. It has entered the record books as the third-highest last-wicket partnership in Ranji Trophy history, 43 runs short of the record 233 set by Ajay Sharma and Maninder Singh for Delhi against Mumbai in 1991-92. Sutar also became only the 10th batter to score 400 or more in a first-class innings, joining a list that features batting greats such as Brian Lara and Don Bradman. Sutar made his Ranji debut for Mizoram in last week's season opener against Manipur after obtaining a no-objection certificate from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA). He scored 35 and 99 in that game, as Mizoram recovered from a 68-run first-innings deficit before going down narrowly by three wickets. Sutar had played for Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy last season on the back of strong showings in Mumbai's local leagues. By the time stumps were called in Sovima, Nagaland reached 50/1. Elsewhere in the Plate group, Parth Palawat and Nilesh Lamichaney scored hundreds as Sikkim piled up 477/4 against Arunachal Pradesh's 121. Meanwhile, Karnajit Yumnam's unbeaten 93 led Manipur's strong reply of 173/2 to Meghalaya's 380, in which Pheiroijam Jotin bagged five wickets in a 29-over spell. In Elite Group A, Patidar's unbeaten 107, studded with 13 fours, took Madhya Pradesh to 302/5 and their lead swelling to 125 against Puducherry. Chanchal Rathore and Shubham Sharma also made half-centuries for Madhya Pradesh. Ravikumar Samarth's 143 rescued Vidarbha in a sensational fashion and took them past Jammu and Kashmir's 260, with number nine Rajneesh Gurbani making an unbeaten 64. Umar Nazir and Sunil Kumar took four wickets each for the hosts and leave Vidarbha at 133/7, before Samarth bailed Vidarbha out of trouble. Nachiket Bhute then rocked J&K's top order to leave them reeling at 7/4 in Srinagar, as the defending champions still trail by 38 runs. In Kanpur, Zeeshan Ansari's five-wicket haul helped Uttar Pradesh bowl out Goa for 164 and take a 38-run lead. At stumps, UP reached 102/4 in their second innings. Priyanshu Moliya's 132, backed by fifties from Mahesh Pithiya and Deepak Hooda, gave Baroda a 250-run lead over Bihar. At stumps, Bihar reached 4/0 in one over of their second innings and still trail by 246 runs. In Group B, Salil Arora (107 off 226 balls) and skipper Uday Saharan (161 off 299 balls) steered Punjab to 456 against Chhattisgarh, with Arora scoring his second hundred in as many games. Left-arm spinner Dharmendrasinh Jadeja sent down nearly 56 overs for his seven wickets, but got little support from the rest of the attack. Harpreet Brar then ripped through the Chhattisgarh batting with 5-21 in just eight overs, and leave the visitors at 76/5 at stumps, as they still trail by 384 runs. At Alur, resuming on 281/8, Karnataka were bowled out for 342, with Manvanth Kumar hitting 135 off 214 balls, including 11 fours and six sixes, in what is also his maiden first-class century. Saurashtra's openers Hetvik Kotak (46 off 127 balls) and Harvik Desai (77 off 78 balls) gave a strong start with a 110-run stand. Karnataka, however, hit back either side of tea to reduce the visitors to 128/4, before Arpit Vasavada (25 batting) and Prerak Mankad (13 batting) took them to 164/4 at stumps, as Saurashtra are still 178 runs behind. Tanay Thyagarajan continued his fine start to the season with a five-wicket haul as Hyderabad bowled out Andhra for 184 to take a 91-run lead. Hyderabad were 78/2 at stumps. Assam bowled out Tripura for 62, with Mukhtar Hussain taking 3-23, as the hosts enforced the follow-on. Tripura were 143/5 in their second innings at stumps, but are still 129 runs behind. In Group C, Badoni's 217 off 246 balls powered Delhi to declare at 648/6 against Gujarat, with Sumit Mathur and Anuj Rawat also scoring half-centuries. Gujarat ended the day on 98/2 in 35 overs and trail by 550 runs in Palam. Shahbaz Ahmed and Aamir Gani took four wickets apiece as Bengal dismissed Services for 122. Left-arm spinner Rahul Singh then claimed five wickets to bowl Bengal out for 146 in their second innings, leaving Services needing 209 to win and they reached 12/0 in five overs at stumps. Mohammed Azharuddeen remained unbeaten on 139 as Kerala made 404 against Odisha, while sharing a 99-run stand with Aditya Sarvate, who also scored a fifty. Odisha were 114/3 and trail Kerala by 290 runs. Digvijay Patil's 148 and another century from Ankit Bawne took Maharashtra to 403/5 and get a lead of 234 runs against Jharkhand. In Group D, Sarfaraz's unbeaten 139 off 213 balls, his 18th first-class hundred laced with 18 fours, put Mumbai in complete control at 398/4 against Himachal Pradesh at the Luhnu Cricket Ground, Bilaspur and stretch their lead to 258. Captain Siddhesh Lad (87 off 188 balls) and Musheer Khan (57 off 137 balls) had earlier put on 122 runs for the third wicket. Lad shared a 68-run stand with Sarfaraz for the fourth wicket, while Sarfaraz and Akash Anand (58 not out off 152 balls) then added an unbroken 176 for the fifth wicket to bat Himachal out of the contest. In Chennai, Pradosh Ranjan Paul's gritty 136 off 279 balls, including 12 fours, helped Tamil Nadu take a 179-run first-innings lead over Uttarakhand, before being all out for 313. Resuming on 85/2, Paul curbed his usual attacking instincts and, along with Baba Indrajith (77), shared a 171-run stand for the third wicket. Off-spinner Avneesh Sudha (4-34 in 20 overs) and Mayank Mishra, who took five wickets, were the standout bowlers for Uttarakhand. Captain R Sai Kishore removed opener Aarav Mahajan in the first over of Uttarakhand's second innings to leave them at 9/1 at stumps. Karan Lamba and Sachin Yadav were both dismissed for 194 after a 338-run third-wicket stand, as Rajasthan made 497 against Railways, who were 46/1 in 24 overs of the first innings and still trail by 451 runs. Off-spinner Avneesh Sudha (4-34 in 20 overs) and Mayank Mishra, who took five wickets, were the standout bowlers for Uttarakhand. Captain R Sai Kishore removed opener Aarav Mahajan in the first over of Uttarakhand's second innings to leave them at 9/1 at stumps. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Dushyant Kumar Gautam Takes Oath As Sikkim Governor Amid Row
The Governor was subsequently accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour by the Sikkim Armed Police.
Dushyant Kumar Gautam Sworn in as Sikkims New Governor
Dushyant Kumar Gautam took the oath as the Governor of Sikkim in a ceremony attended by state officials and dignitaries. Dushyant Kumar Gautam Sworn in as Sikkims New Governor
Dushyant Kumar Gautam becomes the Governor of Sikkim and takes the oath at Raj Bhavan in Gangtok.
Dushyant Kumar Gautam has been sworn in as the new Governor of Sikkim at Lok Bhavan in Gangtok. Dushyant Kumar Gautam was appointed Governor of Sikkim on October 12, 2026.Dushyant Kumar Gautam appointed as the 21st Governor of SikkimSikkim's newly appointed Governor, Dushyant Kumar Gauta...
Dushyant Kumar Gautam takes oath as Sikkim Governor at Lok Bhavan
Newly appointed Sikkim Governor Dushyant Kumar Gautam took oath as the Governor of the state at Lok Bhavan today on Monday. Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu on Monday (13 October) appointed four new Governors to the States, naming Sudha Yadav as Karnataka Governor, Dhal Singh Bisen as Uttarakhand Governor, Braj Mohan Ram as Odisha Governor and Dushyant Gautam as Sikkim Governor, according to a statement issued by Rashtrapati Bhavan. Dushyant Gautam, appointed Governor of Sikkim, is a former BJP National General Secretary and former president of the party's Scheduled Caste Morcha. He has served as a councillor in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and as a Rajya Sabha member. The appointments are part of a broader reshuffle involving six states, with the Governors of Sikkim and Keralam being reassigned to Keralam and Tamil Nadu, respectively. Sudha Yadav, appointed Governor of Karnataka, is a former Lok Sabha MP from Mahendragarh in Haryana and a member of the BJP Parliamentary Board...
Dushyant Kumar Gautam Takes Oath as 19th Governor of Sikkim
Gangtok, October 19: Dushyant Kumar Gautam was sworn in as the 19th Governor of Sikkim on Monday at a formal ceremony held at Lok Bhavan in Gangtok, succeeding Om Prakash Mathur. Chief Justice of the High Court of Sikkim, Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque, administered the oath of office and secrecy in the presence of Chief [] The post Dushyant Kumar Gautam Takes Oath as 19th Governor of Sikkim appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Sikkim Bar Association calls on President to defer Governor-designate
Guwahati: The Bar Association of Sikkim has called on President Droupadi Murmu to defer the swearing-in ceremony of Governor-designate Dushyant Kumar Gautam until concerns linked to the 2022 murder of Ankita Bhandari in Uttarakhand are addressed. The Governor-designate is scheduled to take the oath on October 19. The association sent its request to Rashtrapati Bhavan [] The post Sikkim Bar Association calls on President to defer Governor-designates oath-taking appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Newly Appointed Sikkim Governor Dushyant Kumar Gautam Arrives Amid Protests
Dushyant Kumar Gautam arrives in Gangtok as Sikkims new governor, facing protests over his appointment linked to a high-profile murder case. Newly Appointed Sikkim Governor Dushyant Kumar Gautam Arrives Amid Protests
Sikkim Governor-designate Dushyant Gautam arrives before oath
The News Mill
Dushyant Kumar Gautam Arrives in Gangtok Ahead of Swearing-In as Sikkim Governor
Gangtok, October 18: Sikkim Governor-designate Dushyant Kumar Gautam arrived in Gangtok on Sunday, a day before his scheduled swearing-in ceremony at Lok Bhavan on October 19. Gautam landed at Burtuk Helipad, where Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) received him alongside Deputy Speaker of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly Raj Kumari Thapa, Cabinet ministers, MLAs and [] The post Dushyant Kumar Gautam Arrives in Gangtok Ahead of Swearing-In as Sikkim Governor appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
CBI questions Urmila Sanawar in connection with Ankita Bhandari murder case
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 18 (IANS) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team investigating the Ankita Bhandari murder case reached the residence of Urmila Sanawar, the alleged wife of former BJP MLA Suresh Rathore, in Uttar Pradesh's Saharanpur on Sunday. A four-member CBI team, including a woman officer, reached Sanawar's residence to question her regarding the high-profile case. Earlier this week, Sanawar had participated in a press conference in New Delhi, alongside Bhandari's parents. Sanawar, through a video message, had also demanded that the CBI must interrogate her in the presence of the media since the investigation is not happening under the watch of a sitting Supreme Court judge. This comes a day after the CBI questioned former BJP MLA Rathore at the Shivalik Guest House in Uttarakhand's Haridwar. The CBI took over the probe into the Ankita Bhandari murder case in February this year. Its Delhi-based Special Crime Branch had registered a case against an unknown VIP in connection with the matter. The case had returned to the spotlight early this year after viral audio clips and videos surfaced involving Sanawar. During a Facebook Live session, Sanawar made references to the alleged involvement of a VIP in the murder, triggering fresh controversy and public debate. These developments led to heightened political tensions, with Opposition parties and several organisations renewing demands for a CBI enquiry into the case. Responding to the growing pressure and to address public concerns, the Uttarakhand government moved swiftly to ensure transparency. On January 9, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami formally recommended a CBI investigation. The murder of Bhandari, a 19-year-old receptionist, sparked widespread outrage across Uttarakhand in 2022. She was working as a receptionist at the Vanantra Resort when she was murdered on September 18, 2022. Her body was dumped in the Chilla Shakti Canal and recovered nearly a week later. Following an extensive investigation by a Special Investigation Team, a 500-page charge sheet was filed in the case, naming 97 witnesses, out of whom 47 testified before the court. The prime accused, Pulkit Arya, the owner of Vanantra Resort, along with co-accused Saurabh Bhaskar and Ankit Gupta, were convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment. Arya was found guilty on multiple serious charges, including murder, tampering with evidence, harassment, and immoral trafficking. Meanwhile, several activists and the Congress have been organising protests in Uttarakhand and Delhi over the appointment of BJP leader Dushyant Gautam as the Governor of Sikkim. Earlier this week, Bhandari's parents staged a sit-in at India Gate, demanding a stop to Gautam's appointment as Governor. Later, along with Garhwal BJP MP Anil Baluni, they met the CBI officials. Bhandari's parents have also demanded that the government put the appointment on hold till the CBI probe is underway. They have urged the government to work towards ensuring that all those guilty of their daughter's murder face strict punishment.
Opposition parties protest Dushyant Gautams appointment as Sikkim Governor
They demand his recall until the Central Bureau of Investigation completes its probe into the September 2022 Ankita Bhandari murder case
Kolkata Durga Puja Stampede: Sikkim CM Golay Mourns Deaths, Prays for Victims
Kolkata/Gangtok, October 18, 2026: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) has expressed deep sorrow over the reported loss of lives in a stampede-like incident at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata on Saturday evening. The tragedy, which occurred on October 17 during Durga Puja celebrations, reportedly left several devotees dead and [] The post Kolkata Durga Puja Stampede: Sikkim CM Golay Mourns Deaths, Prays for Victims appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
From Assam to Bihar, Kerala, Odisha, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Sikkim, West Bengal and more we check the full list of states that announced DA and DR hikes for employees and pensioners in 2026.
Arunachal CM Khandu calls for roadmap to boost yak conservation, herders' livelihoods
Digital Desk | Itanagar, Oct 17 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday called for a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen yak conservation, improve the livelihoods of yak herders and harness the economic potential of yak-based products, stressing the need for focused policy support from both the state and Central governments for traditional yak-rearing communities in the Himalayan region. The yak is a long-haired species of domesticated cattle native to the Himalayan region, the Tibetan Plateau, Tajikistan and the Pamir Mountains, with its distribution extending northwards to Mongolia and Siberia. It is descended from the wild yak. Addressing the Yak Economy Summit 2026 and Yak Mela at Mago in Tawang district, the Chief Minister said yak rearing was not merely a livelihood but also an important part of the social, cultural and strategic landscape of the Himalayan belt, extending from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh. From the perspective of national security, it is our duty to support our Brokpa communities and yak herders through appropriate policy interventions, he added, underlining the importance of strengthening pastoral communities living in remote and strategically significant areas. Khandu said that yak associations had now been formed in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh, bringing these regional bodies together under the Yak Federation of India. He recalled participating virtually in the Federation's first programme in Ladakh, noting that the deliberations at Mago were significant not just for Arunachal Pradesh but for the entire country. The Chief Minister announced that a follow-up meeting would be convened in February, within the next three months, to review progress and share a roadmap for taking the initiative forward. The roadmap, he said, would identify the policy interventions required from the state government and the Union government to ease the lives of yak herders and improve their income. Emphasising the need for a clear understanding of the sector, Khandu added that comprehensive mapping of yak populations, herders and their seasonal movements must be undertaken before planning could progress. Mapping of both summer and winter grazing camps would be essential for developing appropriate infrastructure and ensuring the sustainable management of yak herds. The state's yak economy, he noted, could not be strengthened without organising herders into cooperatives. He called for the establishment of the Arunachal Pradesh Yak Herders and Products Development Cooperative Society, stressing that a cooperative framework would help herders pool resources, improve bargaining power, access markets and develop viable businesses around yak products. The proposed roadmap is expected to bring together the Army, the ICAR-National Research Centre on Yak (ICAR-NRCY), relevant government departments and other stakeholders to develop a coordinated and sustainable approach to yak rearing and pastoral livelihoods. Khandu also called for capacity building and the adoption of scientific yak-rearing practices, including the semi-intensive model developed by ICAR-NRCY. He stressed the need to develop basic amenities for Brokpa communities at summer and winter satellite stations, while ensuring that traditional grazing practices and livelihoods are protected. A Brokpa-friendly grazing tax regime, particularly in winter grazing grounds, was among the measures highlighted for consideration. Highlighting the commercial potential of yak products, the Chief Minister said the quality and taste of yak dairy products could help them establish a strong presence in the market. He expressed confidence that yak cheese and yak ghee, if developed and marketed effectively, could compete with established brands. The Chief Minister called for stronger dairy development and value chains for yak milk products and fibre, along with the involvement of investors and entrepreneurs to improve processing, marketing and market access. Yak-based livelihoods, he said, could extend beyond animal husbandry to include cottage stays, guiding services and the sale of local crafts. The summit also highlighted the need to explore education-related proposals for yak herders under the National Livelihood Mission framework, alongside targeted support for Brokpa communities. The possibility of extending special-category recognition to Brokpas, along with the Puroik community, was also raised for consideration.
BJP On Governor Appointment And Ankita Bhandari Case
The BJP's Sikkim unit has supported the appointment of Dushyant Kumar Gautam as governor, despite opposition allegations linking him to the VIP in the Ankita Bhandari murder case. The party called for an independent and impartial probe by the CBI, which recently met Bhandari's parents, and stressed that justice must be free from political influence.
Guwahati: The opposition Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) on Friday held candlelight vigils at four locations across Sikkim, demanding that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) complete its probe into the murder of 19-year-old Ankita Bhandari before Governor-designate Dushyant Kumar Gautam assumes office. The vigils were held at the party headquarters in Gangtok and its offices [] The post Sikkim: SDF demands CBI probe into Ankita Bhandari case before Dushyant Gautam takes charge as Governor appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Sikkim High Court Bans Teesta River Muck Dumping by Sevoke-Rangpo Railway Project
Gangtok, October 17 : Teesta River Muck Dumping linked to the Sevoke-Rangpo Railway Project has been prohibited by the High Court of Sikkim, which has directed IRCON and its contractors to stop disposing of excavated soil, mud and construction debris into the river. The court has also instructed the Namchi District Collector to investigate whether [] The post Sikkim High Court Bans Teesta River Muck Dumping by Sevoke-Rangpo Railway Project appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Land meets literature | Sikkim Arts and Literature Festival
Land meets literature | Sikkim Arts and Literature Festival
Tesla Unveils Flying Roadster With SpaceX Technology, Claims 0
Texas/US, October 17 : Tesla has unveiled its long-awaited second-generation Roadster, demonstrating an electric sports car capable of briefly taking flight, performing aerial manoeuvres and accelerating from 0 to 60 miles per hour (approximately 97 km/h) in less than one second. The spectacular demonstration, held on October 15 at SpaceXs testing facility in McGregor, Texas, [] The post Tesla Unveils Flying Roadster With SpaceX Technology, Claims 060 MPH in Under One Second appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Dushyant Gautam To Take Oath As Sikkim Governor On October 19 Amid Congress Protests
Gangtok, Oct 17: Dushyant Kumar Gautam, recently appointed as the Governor of Sikkim, will formally take the oath of office on October 19, 2026, at Lok Bhawan in Gangtok. The ceremony will be conducted by the Chief Justice of the Sikkim High Court. Gautams appointment was made by President Droupadi Murmu on October 12, following... The post Dushyant Gautam To Take Oath As Sikkim Governor On October 19 Amid Congress Protests first appeared on Northeast Today .
Seva Dal Marches For Ankita Bhandari, Seeks Impartial Probe
The Congress' Seva Dal organised a candle march in New Delhi, demanding justice for Ankita Bhandari, who was murdered in Uttarakhand in 2022. The protest called for an impartial investigation and accountability, especially regarding allegations against BJP's Dushyant Gautam, whose recent appointment as Sikkim Governor has drawn criticism from the Congress.
Sikkim Filmmaker Tribeny Rai Wins Two International Awards For Upcoming Film
Sikkim filmmaker Tribeny Rai's upcoming second feature won the APM Busan Award and Srfond Award, bringing international recognition to her developing project.
Sikkim High Court Recruitment 2026
Sikkim High Court has released Notification No. 31/COMP/HCS for 6 vacancies, including Senior Technical Officer, Senior Developer, Developer, and IT Assistant posts. Eligible candidates can submit their offline applications till 20 November 2026. Further details are available at hcs.gov.in.
DGT, MSDE Partners With Medhavi Skills University to Strengthen Industry-Linked ITI Training
Business Wire India MSU becomes the only university in India with an active Flexi-MoU course under the Directorate General of Training (DGT), Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship. The partnership integrates industry-led training, practical learning and recognised qualifications to strengthen pathways to employment. Medhavi Skills University (MSU), Sikkim, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) [] The post DGT, MSDE Partners With Medhavi Skills University to Strengthen Industry-Linked ITI Training appeared first on Startup Success Stories India - News & Updates for Indian Entrepreneurs .
Sikkim-Based Startup Agapi Wins Visionary Women
Gangtok, Oct 16: Agapi, a women-led sustainable skincare and lifestyle startup from Sikkim, has won the Visionary Womens Award at the BEAUTY&YOU India Awards 2026, marking a significant milestone for the states entrepreneurial ecosystem. Founded in 2019 by Rinzing Choden, with Varsha Shrestha as co-founder, Agapi was recognised at the awards presented by The Este... The post Sikkim-Based Startup Agapi Wins Visionary Womens Award At BEAUTY&YOU India Awards 2026 first appeared on Northeast Today .
Rahul Gandhi Urges President Murmu to Halt Dushyant Gautam
New Delhi, October 16, 2026: Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has urged President Droupadi Murmu to reconsider the appointment of BJP leader Dushyant Gautam as Governor of Sikkim, citing allegations linking him to the controversy surrounding the 2022 Ankita Bhandari murder case in Uttarakhand. In a two-page letter dated October [] The post Rahul Gandhi Urges President Murmu to Halt Dushyant Gautams Appointment as Sikkim Governor Over Ankita Bhandari Case appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Zabarvan Legends Series takes mountain biking from Kashmir to Ladakh
Srinagar, Oct 15: Indias mountain landscapes are emerging as a promising arena for international downhill mountain biking, with the Zabarvan Legends Series returning for its second season with races across Sikkim, Ladakh and Pune, aiming to put the country on the global adventure sports map. Organised by Zabarvan Xtreme, the international championship seeks to bridge the gap between Indias growing mountain biking community and the professional infrastructure, sponsorship and competitive opportunities available to riders in established cycling nations. Founded by Sehan Shetty, a snowboarder, surfer and football player, Zabarvan Xtreme was conceived to help Indian athletes pursue mountain sports professionally rather than treat them merely as recreational activities. Zabarvan Xtreme was created to build an ecosystem for mountain sports where Indian athletes can thrive and see these disciplines as serious sporting opportunities rather than simply hobbies, Shetty said. The series made its debut in October 2025, travelling through Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir, Shillong in Meghalaya and Guwahati in Assam. More than 30 riders participated in the inaugural edition, including competitors from Brazil, Australia, the Czech Republic and Iran. Brazils Douglas Vieira, a five-time national champion, emerged as the overall winner. Building on that experience, the second season has introduced three new venues, each offering a distinct combination of terrain, technical challenges and regional character. The opening race, Singge Oralo, was held from October 7 to 11 at Zoom village in Sikkims Eastern Himalayas. The two-kilometre course, named Snow Lion, featured a 200-metre descent through dense forests, with steep gradients, exposed roots, rocky drops and centuries-old granite stairways passing through historic mountain settlements. With gradients reaching 40 degrees, the track tested riders precision and adaptability across slippery roots, soft forest soil and unforgiving stone surfaces. The event attracted participants from eight countries, including India, Brazil, Australia, Iran, the Czech Republic, Taiwan, Nepal and Italy. Vieira continued his winning run, finishing first in the elite category. Czech rider Matej Charvat secured second place, while Irans Hossein Zanjanian finished third. Australian mountain biking legend Samuel Hill, an eight-time world champion, finished fourth. Indian riders also made their presence felt, with Taitus Marak finishing eighth, Virendra Mali ninth and Aaronson Oniel Kharpuri tenth. In the second competition category, Meghalayas Will Willbornson finished second and Darian Laloo of Meghalaya Pro Cycling secured third place. The championship has now moved to Ladakh for Druk Layul, scheduled from October 14 to 18 at South Pullu, near the gateway to Khardung La. Named after the legendary Tibetan Thunder Dragon, Druk Layul translates to Thunder Dragons Heaven. The approximately 3.5-kilometre course descends from an altitude of 4,300 metres to 3,700 metres, presenting riders with a 600-metre elevation drop across the rugged Trans-Himalayan landscape. Loose shale, rocky chutes, exposed traverses, technical switchbacks and fast sections punctuated by jumps and drops are expected to test the competitors endurance and technical skills. Around 25 athletes are expected to participate in one of the championships most demanding high-altitude settings, where temperatures may range from minus 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. Riders are being given two days to acclimatise to the altitude before racing. The event is being organised in partnership with Unexplored Ladakh, represented by Tenjin Jamphel, whose regional knowledge and experience in mountain biking and adventure travel are central to the competition. Beyond hosting the race, the organisers see Ladakh as a potential long-term destination for competitive mountain biking, with plans to encourage local participation, create opportunities for young riders and establish recurring competitions. The final leg, Gaur Ghat, will be held from October 22 to 25 in Pune, Maharashtra, beneath the historic walls of Sinhagad Fort. Drawing its name from the historic mountain pass leading towards the fort, the race will take riders through the rugged Sahyadri mountains. The 2.2-kilometre course, set at approximately 1,300 metres, features a 400-metre descent across dry basalt terrain, loose gravel, exposed bedrock, steep rock faces and technical switchbacks. The tracks rocky surfaces and rough rock gardens offer a different challenge from Sikkims forest trails and Ladakhs high-altitude desert. The organisers hope the event will help establish Pune as a destination for international mountain biking, building on its active cycling community and access to outdoor recreation areas. For Zabarvan Xtreme, however, the championship is about more than race results. The organisation aims to address the structural challenges confronting Indian mountain biking, including expensive equipment, limited training facilities, inadequate sponsorship and a shortage of professional racing opportunities. Bringing international riders to India gives local competitors an opportunity to experience professional racing standards without having to travel overseas. Collaboration with local organisers and cycling communities is also intended to build the foundations for sustained participation beyond individual events. The series could additionally create opportunities in adventure tourism, local employment and sports infrastructure, particularly in mountain destinations with the terrain and natural appeal to host international competitions. However, the long-term benefits will depend on sustained investment, local athlete development and responsible management of fragile mountain environments. From Gulmarg, Shillong and Guwahati in its inaugural season to Sikkim, Ladakh and Pune in 2026, the Zabarvan Legends Series is expanding its geographical reach while seeking to establish a stronger professional pathway for Indian mountain bikers. Its larger ambition is to create an ecosystem where Indian athletes can train, compete at international standards and pursue mountain sports as a career, while bringing the countrys diverse landscapes to a wider global sporting audience.
SDF Strongly Opposes Dushyant Gautam
Gangtok , October 16 : SDF Opposes Dushyant Gautams appointment as Governor of Sikkim, with the opposition Sikkim Democratic Front raising serious concerns over allegations and controversies surrounding the 2022 Ankita Bhandari murder case in Uttarakhand. In a video statement released by the party, Komal Chamling, Vice-President in charge of the SDF Womens Wing, questioned [] The post SDF Strongly Opposes Dushyant Gautams Appointment as Sikkim Governor, Raises Ankita Bhandari Case appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Rahul Gandhi Urges President to Reconsider Appointment of Sikkim Governor Amid Ankita Bhandari Case
Rahul Gandhi has written to the President, requesting a review of the Sikkim Governors appointment related to the Ankita Bhandari murder case. Rahul Gandhi Urges President to Reconsider Appointment of Sikkim Governor Amid Ankita Bhandari Case
SIR: Sikkim, Meghalaya, Ladakh step up voter enrolment drives for missing names
Election authorities are conducting special enrolment drives across various regions to help eligible voters register. These registration efforts are intended for individuals whose names are missing from the electoral rolls. Citizens are encouraged to check their names and file applications as needed. Voters can seek assistance from Booth Level Officers or designated helpdesks during specific periods. The administration aims to ensure all eligible voters are included in the electoral rolls.
'Stunned': Rahul urges Prez to hold Dushyant Gautams appointment as Sikkim guv
Elon Musk Slams India Over Starlink Delay, but His Own AI Grok Lists 10 Major Risks
New Delhi, October 15 : Billionaire Elon Musk has accused powerful business interests in India of obstructing the launch of his satellite internet service Starlink, claiming that delays are depriving millions of Indians of affordable high-speed connectivity. However, an assessment generated by Grok, the artificial intelligence assistant developed by Musks own company xAI, has highlighted [] The post Elon Musk Slams India Over Starlink Delay, but His Own AI Grok Lists 10 Major Risks appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Sikkim pollution control bureau pushes 4-way waste segregation under new rules
Tamang cautions against burning, burying or dumping waste, and littering on streets, open public spaces, drains and water bodies
Sikkim Governor Appointment Row: SUSA, Lawyer M.B. Karki Raise Concerns Over Dushyant Gautam
Gangtok, October 15: The Sikkim Governor appointment controversy has intensified after the Sikkim University Students Association (SUSA) and lawyer-social activist M.B. Karki separately raised concerns over the appointment of Dushyant Kumar Gautam as the new Governor of Sikkim, calling for transparency and an impartial examination of allegations associated with the 2022 Ankita Bhandari murder case [] The post Sikkim Governor Appointment Row: SUSA, Lawyer M.B. Karki Raise Concerns Over Dushyant Gautam appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Ankita Bhandaris Parents Detained During India Gate Protest
Watch | Ankita Bhandaris parents, along with opposition leaders and other protesters, were detained by Delhi Police at India Gate following an overnight protest.They are demanding that the proposed appointment of BJP leader Dushyant Kumar Gautam as Sikkim Governor be put on hold until the ongoing CBI probe into Ankita Bhandaris murder is completed.Her father, Virendra Singh Bhandari, warned that nationwide protests would resume if the appointment was not cancelled within 24 hours. The parents were released around 5 am on Thursday, October 15, 2026.
Ankita Bhandari murder: Parents released after detention
New Delhi: Parents of 19-year-old Ankita Bhandari, who was murdered in Uttarakhand in 2022, were released early Thursday morning, October 15, hours after being detained while protesting near India Gate against Dushyant Kumar Gautams appointment as Sikkim governor. While being detained, her father issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Centre to cancel Gautams appointment. According Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Ankita Bhandari case: Why her parents are protesting at India Gate
Ankita Bhandari's parents have given the Centre 24 hours to cancel Dushyant Kumar Gautam's appointment as Sikkim governor, demanding that it be put on hold until the CBI probe is complete
Rahul Gandhi slams Modi government over detention of Ankita Bhandaris parents
Rahul Gandhi criticised the Modi government after Ankita Bhandaris parents were detained during a protest near India Gate and released around 5 am on Thursday. The family has given the Centre 24 hours to cancel Dushyant Kumar Gautams appointment as Sikkim governor until the CBI probe is completed
Ankita Bhandaris parents demand answers over the alleged VIP angle as they issue a 24-hour ultimatum over the Sikkim Governor appointment.
She Quit A Lucrative Corporate Job For IPS, Now Gets Key Haryana Posting
Deepika Agrawal UPSC success story: Originally from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, Agrawal pursued a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree at Shri Ram College of Commerce, University of Delhi.
Rahul Gandhi Slams Modi Government Over Detention of Ankita's Parents
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised the Modi government after the parents of Ankita Bhandari were detained during a protest at India Gate, demanding that Dushyant Kumar Gautams appointment as Sikkim governor be put on hold until the CBI investigation into the 2022 murder case is completed. The parents were released around 5 am, while Ankitas father issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Centre.
What is Ankita Bhandari murder case? Timeline of events and VIP angle explained
Ankita Bhandaris parents have been demanding that the appointment of Dushyant Kumar Gautam as Sikkim Governor be delayed.
The appointment of senior BJP leader Dushyant Kumar Gautam as Sikkim Governor has reopened an old wound for Ankita Bhandari's family. On Wednesday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi joined her parents at a protest at India Gate in Delhi, where they demanded
Revoke Gautams appointment in 24 hours or face nationwide protests: Ankita Bhandaris father
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 15 (IANS) The parents of 19-year-old Ankita Bhandari, who was murdered in Uttarakhand in 2022, on Thursday issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the government, demanding that Dushyant Kumar Gautams appointment as Sikkim Governor be revoked. The development came after Delhi Police briefly detained Ankitas parents and several Opposition leaders during a sit-in protest at India Gate. Ankitas father warned that people across the country would take to the streets if the government failed to act on their demand. The family has been seeking further action in the case, particularly over allegations surrounding the identity of a purported VIP, and wants Gautams appointment put on hold until the ongoing Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe is completed. Speaking to IANS, Ankitas father said, We are giving the government a 24-hour ultimatum. If it does not revoke Dushyant Gautams appointment, people across the country, in every state, will take to the streets to demand justice for Ankita Bhandari. Our daughter has received incomplete justice, as the name of a VIP emerged in the case. To protect that VIP, the SIT and the government have deliberately acted in this manner. As you can see, he has been appointed Governor of Sikkim. The protest also saw Congress leaders criticise the police action and express solidarity with the family. Several party leaders alleged that the demonstrators had been manhandled while demanding justice for Ankita. Indian Youth Congress (IYC) president Uday Bhanu Chib said Ankitas parents have been fighting to secure justice for their daughter and called for accountability in the case. Ankita's parents have been fighting for four years to ensure that their daughter, who is no longer with us, gets justice and that the rapist is punished. But far from delivering justice, the BJP has appointed the perpetrator as Governor, effectively shielding him from action and granting him immunity. What could be more unjust than this? I want to tell parents across the country that what is happening to Ankitas parents today could happen to anyone tomorrow, Chib said. Congress MP Pawan Khera also questioned the appointment, alleging that the person facing accusations was being elevated to a constitutional position while those seeking justice were being detained. The person accused of rape gets to move into a Governors residence, while the rape survivor and those standing in her support end up at a police station. This is the state of affairs in the national capital, Khera said. He added that Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had assured the family of their support. Khera said the party would continue its efforts until justice was delivered in the case. Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi said the party would continue to stand with Ankitas family despite the detention of protesters. He said Congress had supported the family in the past and would continue to raise the issue, adding that detaining party leaders and workers would not end their campaign for justice. Congress leader Gurdeep Singh Sappal said the parents wanted to meet the President of India and seek the revocation of Gautams appointment, which was approved by her. Sappal questioned the circumstances, alleging that a person whom protesters identify as the purported VIP in the case would occupy a Governors residence while Ankitas parents faced police action. He also referred to the ongoing CBI investigation and the allegations surrounding the case. Congress leader Supriya Shrinate condemned the detention of the parents, saying their demand for justice had not been adequately addressed. She appealed to President Droupadi Murmu to intervene and review Gautams appointment. Shrinate questioned how a person facing allegations connected to the case could be appointed Governor, while also criticising the police for detaining the grieving parents during the early hours of the morning. All India Mahila Congress president Alka Lamba said Ankitas parents had travelled from Pauri Garhwal in Uttarakhand to Delhi to press for justice. Ankita Bhandaris parents travelled all the way from Pauri Garhwal to Delhi to demand justice while sitting at India Gate. Why? Because Dushyant Gautam, who was allegedly identified as the VIP from the BJP, has been appointed Governor instead of being summoned by the CBI or sent to jail. He has been completely protected. The parents couldnt bear this and came to Delhi. They sat there for 12 hours, from 5 p.m. to around 5 a.m., when the police suddenly arrived and dragged them away at around 4.30 a.m., she said.
Ankita Bhandari Case: Parents Detained in Pre Dawn Action at India Gate, Mother Threatens Fast
The parents of Ankita Bhandari were detained by Delhi Police at around 4 am on Thursday while staging a sit-in protest at India Gate against the appointment of former Uttarakhand BJP in-charge Dushyant Kumar Gautam as the Governor of Sikkim. They
Ankita Bhandaris Parents Released After India Gate Detention
The parents have been demanding that Dushyant Kumar Gautam's appointment as Sikkim governor be put on hold until the ongoing CBI investigation into the case is complete
Ankita Bhandari Parents Protest, Seek VIP Probe
Parents of Ankita Bhandari, a 2022 murder victim, were detained in New Delhi while protesting against the appointment of Dushyant Kumar Gautam as Sikkim governor. They allege Gautam's involvement in the VIP angle of the case, which he denies. Other Congress leaders were also detained and later released.
Last year the GST Council cut tax rates. This year it has focused on how GST works day to day. The 57th meeting, held in New Delhi on Thursday under the chairpersonship of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, recommended changes to registration, returns, refunds, notices and the checking of goods on the road. The Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir was among those who attended. No arrests, and a higher bar for prosecution The Council has recommended deleting Section 69 of the CGST Act, which means tax officers will no longer have the power to arrest under GST. The amount of tax evasion needed to start a criminal case will rise from 1 crore to 5 crore. The offence of wrongly taking input tax credit will be limited to taking credit without actually receiving the goods or services, or without an invoice. Punishments under Section 132 will also be rationalised. Put simply, honest mistakes will be treated as tax matters, not crimes, while fake-invoice fraud remains punishable. Fewer notices, smaller penalties No show cause notice will be issued if the total tax involved is less than 10,000 (CGST, SGST, IGST and cess together). Pending notices and appeals below this amount will be decided as if this limit had always applied. In non-fraud cases, if the taxpayer pays the tax and interest within 30 days of the order (Section 73) or 60 days (Section 74A), the penalty will be only 5%. The minimum penalty of 10,000 in non-fraud cases will go, and the maximum general penalty under Section 125 will fall from 25,000 to 10,000. Where an order imposes only a penalty and no tax, the pre-deposit for filing an appeal will be capped at 40 crore (20 crore each under CGST and SGST). For officers, a circular will lay down standards for notices and orders: proper quality, timely issue, invoking fraud or suppression only when the facts support it, and holding personal hearings. Officers should also note a proposed validation clause that will protect notices which courts struck down only because they covered more than one financial year. Faster refunds Refunds will move to a largely automatic system. Any extra balance in the electronic cash ledger will be refunded in full by the system. Officers will have 10 days, instead of 15, to acknowledge a refund claim or point out deficiencies; if they do nothing, the claim is treated as acknowledged. For exports and inverted duty structure cases, 90% will be paid provisionally by the system after a risk check. In a later phase, export refunds will be sanctioned in full automatically. Scanned documents will no longer be needed, and the cap linking export turnover to 1.5 times the value of similar domestic sales will be removed. More input tax credit Credit will now be allowed on several items that are blocked today: outdoor catering, health and life insurance, telecom towers, pipelines outside the factory, free samples, and goods destroyed after expiry where the law requires it. Businesses with an inverted duty structure will get refunds of credit on input services availed on or after 1 November 2026, and on capital goods availed on or after 1 April 2027 (spread over 60 months). Where an officer blocks credit in the ledger under Rule 86A, the taxpayer will be able to file an objection and be heard. Easier registration A circular will list the documents needed for registration, and the form will have drop-down boxes so that both sides know what is required. Changes to registration details, other than the principal place of business, will be accepted automatically. Cancellation will become automatic once all returns are filed and dues paid. Small online sellers will be able to register in another State by declaring the e-commerce companys warehouse there as their place of business, provided they pass on credit of no more than 2.5 lakh a month. Smoother movement of goods A truck carrying goods can be stopped only on specific intelligence and with the approval of an officer not below the rank of Joint Commissioner. Goods can be detained or seized only in the State where the supplier or buyer is located, not in States the truck is merely passing through. The exception is a vehicle with no e-way bill or no documents showing where the goods are coming from or going to; such goods can be checked anywhere. Confiscation will not apply to goods in transit. Relief for small taxpayers Taxpayers with a turnover up to 5 crore will get a full waiver of late fee if a delayed return is filed by the end of the month in which it was due. The Council also approved, in principle, an optional scheme for businesses up to 5 crore that sell only to consumers: one annual return with quarterly tax payment. From the April 2027 return, new tools will help correct mismatches in tax and credit before notices are generated. Boost for exporters Services supplied to an Indian companys own branch abroad will be able to qualify as exports. Work done in India on goods sent by foreign clients, such as repair or testing, will also count as an export. Goods sold to a foreign buyer but delivered in an SEZ or free trade warehousing zone will be treated as zero-rated. Rates and clarifications No general rate change was made, but there are targeted changes. Psyllium (Isabgol) seeds will carry nil GST. Waste and scrap of plastic, electronics and tyres, and used cooking oil, will come under reverse charge when sold by unregistered persons, with 2% TDS on sales between registered persons. Dealers in used vehicles under the margin scheme can take credit on all their expenses except the vehicles themselves. Passenger transport and rental using electric vehicles get an option of 5% GST. Exemptions have been recommended for helicopter seat-sharing in the North-East, Sikkim and Bagdogra, for storage of seeds, and for coffee curing. What should you do now? Tax officers should continue to apply the existing law until amendments are notified, but should follow the spirit of fair and reasoned orders. Taxpayers should keep filing on time and keep records of input services from 1 November 2026, which will matter for future refunds. Tax professionals should watch for CBIC and State notifications and review clients pending small-value notices and blocked credits. These reforms, once notified, will reduce disputes and improve cash flow for businesses. The writer is a JKAS officer serving as State Taxes Officer, Circle Budgam. Views are personal and based on the PIB press release of 8 October 2026.
Ankita Bhandari's parents, Congress leaders detained during India Gate protest
Delhi Police detained several opposition leaders and Ankita Bhandari's parents during a protest at India Gate. Congress leaders criticized the police action as an attack on democratic freedoms and justice. The protestors demanded the cancellation of Dushyant Gautam's recent appointment as Sikkim Governor. Family members of Ankita Bhandari expressed their discontent over political appointments amidst ongoing investigations. The situation reflects ongoing tensions surrounding the quest for justice in Ankita's case.
Ankita Bhandaris Parents Protest In Delhi, Seek Stay On Dushyant Gautams Appointment
Ankita Bhandaris parents have travelled to Delhi to seek President Droupadi Murmus intervention, demanding that Dushyant Gautams appointment as Sikkim Governor be put on hold until the CBI investigation is completed. Speaking to NDTV, Ankitas parents alleged lapses in the earlier investigation, questioned whether crucial evidence had been collected and called for all witnesses to be heard. They said their protest would continue until they get an opportunity to meet the President. The family says it has been fighting for justice for four years.
Congress criticises appointment of Dushyant Gautam as Sikkim governor amid Ankita Bhandari case
The News Mill
Rahul Gandhi Meets Uttarakhand Murder Victim's Parents. Government Says Firm Action Was Taken
Parents of Ankita Bhandari have been protesting the appointment of BJP leader Dushyant Kumar Gautam as Sikkim governor despite his name cropping up in the September 2022 case. Bhandari's parents allege he is the VIP mentioned in the case recently.
Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra met Ankita Bhandari's parents at India Gate in New Delhi on Wednesday as the family protested the appointment of BJP leader Dushyant Kumar Gautam as Sikkim governor. The family has sought President Droupadi
Parents of Ankita Bhandari have been protesting the appointment of BJP leader Dushyant Kumar Gautam as Sikkim governor despite his name cropping up in the September 2022 case. Bhandari's parents allege he is the VIP mentioned in the case recently.
Ankita Bhandari case: Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi meet parents protesting at Delhis India Gate
Parents of the woman killed at a Uttarakhand resort are demanding that Dushyant Kumar Gautam's appointment as the Sikkim Governor be put on hold until the ongoing CBI probe into the 2022 murder case is complete
Rahul, Priyanka join Ankita Bhandari
New Delhi: Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, on Wednesday, October 14, evening, reached India Gate to join the sit-in protest by the parents of Ankita Bhandari, a woman who was found dead in Uttarakhand in 2022, against the appointment of Dushyant Kumar Gautam as the Sikkim Governor. The Uttarakhand Congress has also Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
The grieving family is staging a demonstration against the recent appointment of BJP leader Dushyant Kumar Gautam as the Governor of Sikkim, citing alleged links and calling for an immediate halt to his constitutional posting pending a central investigation.
Ranji 2026-27: Sikkim hold out for draw, Meghalaya
Shillong, Oct 14: Sikkim dug deep to hold out for a draw against Meghalaya on the fourth and final day of their Ranji Trophy 2026-27 plate group match in Rangpo, Sikkim, today. Resuming on 44/0, 106 runs away from making Meghalaya bat again, the hosts finished on 291/7, ensuring that the game ended in a [] The post Ranji 2026-27: Sikkim hold out for draw, Meghalayas Ram Gurung named POTM first appeared on Highland Post .
Sikkim HC bans dumping of railway construction debris into Teesta River
Digital Desk | Gangtok, Oct 14 (IANS) The Sikkim High Court has directed the Indian Railway Construction Company Limited (IRCON) and its contractors to immediately stop dumping excavated soil, mud and construction debris into the Teesta River during the construction of the Sevok-Rangpo railway project, officials said on Wednesday. A division bench comprising Chief Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque and Justice Bhaskar Raj Pradhan issued the direction while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (WP(PIL) No. 09 of 2026) filed by residents of Melli Bazar in Namchi district. The petitioners alleged that construction waste was being dumped along the Teesta river basin, obstructing its natural flow and causing water to overflow towards Sikkim. The court directed IRCON and its contractors to dispose of all excavated material only at designated dumping sites and prohibited its disposal in the river. The Namchi District Collector has been directed to ensure compliance with the order and take appropriate action against violations under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. The court also asked the district administration to examine whether the dumping had disturbed the river's natural flow and recommend corrective measures if necessary. The District Collector and the State Pollution Control Board have been added as respondents in the case. The latest order follows an earlier direction issued on September 7, when the High Court asked the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Namchi, to inspect the locations identified in the petition. The court subsequently considered the inspection report submitted by the DLSA Secretary on October 3. The petitioners have sought the removal of dumped material, construction of protective walls and the constitution of an expert committee comprising hydrologists and environmental engineers to assess the environmental impact. They have also sought recovery of restoration expenses under the 'Polluter Pays' principle, which requires those responsible for environmental damage to bear the cost of remediation. The District Collector is required to submit a report within three weeks, while the next hearing has been scheduled for November 17. The Sevok-Rangpo railway line is a major infrastructure project aimed at improving rail connectivity to Sikkim. The case raises concerns over the disposal of construction waste and the protection of the Teesta's river channel during infrastructure development.
Why Congress Is Up In Arms Against Appointment Of New Sikkim Governor Dushyant Gautam
Uttarakhand BJP state media in-charge Manveer Singh Chauhan questioned Congress's silence over Congress MP being accused of sexual harassment by JNU students.
Protecting Himalayas collective responsibility: Dr Jitendra Singh
Srinagar, Oct 13: Union Minister of State (MoS) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Dr Jitendra Singh on Tuesday called for collective responsibility to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, warning that development in mountain regions must be balanced with ecological safeguards and sustainable livelihoods. Addressing a special session at the 13th All India Sustainable Mountain Development Summit at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), the minister said safeguarding the Himalayas was a national responsibility extending beyond the government and scientific community to every citizen. Dr Singh stressed that the Himalayan region was vital to India's ecological security, supporting glaciers, springs, rivers and water bodies while sustaining agriculture, tourism and livelihoods. Any damage to this fragile ecosystem, he said, could have far-reaching consequences for both mountain communities and the country's environmental well-being. The summit, being held from October 12 to 14 under the theme Contouring Sustainable Himalayan Landscapes for Inclusive Viksit Bharat, is jointly organised by SKUAST-K and the Integrated Mountain Initiative (IMI). Discussions include the draft Jammu and Kashmir Sustainable Mountain Development Policy 2026. The MoS said unauthorised construction, unregulated activities and other human-induced pressures could intensify risks in environmentally sensitive mountain areas. Ecological considerations will be integrated into development planning, alongside greater public awareness and responsible conduct by local communities and other stakeholders, he said. The challenge, he said, was to ensure that development created livelihood opportunities without undermining the natural systems on which the region's long-term prosperity depended. Highlighting the Centre's scientific interventions, the Union Minister referred to the National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem, part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change. The Department of Science and Technology has identified centres at the University of Kashmir, Sikkim University and Tezpur University to strengthen research on climate change and the Himalayan ecosystem, he said. Dr Singhalso cited glacier monitoring and field-based studies conducted by the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology in Ladakh and Doda since 2015. The research includes the use of automatic weather stations and seismometers, besides investigations into landslides and past earthquakes. Capacity-building in glaciology in Kashmir is also being undertaken to strengthen scientific understanding of the region's changing environment, he said. Emphasising the importance of early warning and weather preparedness, the minister said India's weather radar network had expanded from 16 radars in 2014 to 50, with another 50 planned under Mission Mausam. The expansion is expected to strengthen weather monitoring and preparedness, particularly in areas vulnerable to extreme weather and natural hazards, he said. The MoS also referred to a pilot study initiated by the Wadia Institute in 10 villages in Jammu and Kashmir, saying its findings could help develop locally appropriate interventions and inform their possible replication elsewhere. He called for the findings to be considered while examining the draft Sustainable Mountain Development Policy. Linking conservation with economic opportunity, Dr Singh cited the Aroma Mission and Purple Revolution as examples of science-led livelihood generation in Jammu and Kashmir. Lavender cultivation in areas such as Gulmarg and Padder, he said, had opened avenues for farmers and rural entrepreneurs by promoting crops suited to local conditions. However, he emphasised that sustainable returns required more than cultivation. Strong market linkages with the aroma and fragrance industries, access to technology and finance, and support for entrepreneurship were essential to ensure that farmers benefited from these initiatives. Women-led self-help groups and young entrepreneurs, he said, could play a significant role in expanding livelihood opportunities, he said. The Union Minister said Jammu and Kashmir's experience demonstrated how scientific interventions and region-specific economic activities could support development while making better use of local strengths. Secretary, Science and Technology, Babila Rakwal, SKUAST-K Vice-Chancellor Prof Nazir A Ganai, and representatives of academia and the mountain development community attended the session. Reiterating the need for coordinated action, Dr Singh said government programmes and scientific research had to be complemented by responsible decisions on the ground. Protecting the Himalayas, he said, was essential not only for the people who depend on the mountains but also for India's long-term ecological security.
New Delhi, October 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted Indias rapidly expanding digital ecosystem, stating that the country now has more than 500 million YouTube users and over 500 million Instagram users, reflecting the growing influence of social media and digital connectivity. Addressing a gathering, the Prime Minister said that Indias digital transformation has [] The post India Has Over 500 Million YouTube and Instagram Users, Digital Connectivity Unlocking New Opportunities: PM Modi appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
NCC Plans to Expand Reach in Northeast India, West Bengal, and Sikkim
The NCC will hold a high-level meeting in Guwahati to enhance its activities in Northeast India and strengthen its organizational framework. NCC Plans to Expand Reach in Northeast India, West Bengal, and Sikkim
Congress Protests Appointment of Dushyant Gautam as Sikkim Governor
Congress leaders in Uttarakhand express outrage over Dushyant Gautams appointment as Sikkim Governor, citing unresolved issues in the Ankita Bhandari case. Congress Protests Appointment of Dushyant Gautam as Sikkim Governor
CM Prem Singh Tamang Welcomes New Sikkim Governor Dushyant Gautam
Gangtok, October 13: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) has extended his congratulations and a warm welcome to newly appointed Governor Dushyant Gautam, expressing optimism about working together for the development and progress of the state. In a Facebook post, the Chief Minister conveyed his greetings on behalf of the people and the Government [] The post CM Prem Singh Tamang Welcomes New Sikkim Governor Dushyant Gautam appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
President Murmu reshuffles Governors across six States
President Droupadi Murmu announced a reshuffle of Governors across six States on October 12, 2026. Rajendra Arlekar has been appointed Governor of Tamil Nadu, while Om Prakash Mathur will take charge in Keralam. Sudha Yadav has been appointed Governor of Karnataka, Braj Mohan Ram of Odisha, Dhal Singh Bisen of Uttarakhand and Dushyant Gautam of Sikkim. According to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the appointments will take effect when the new Governors assume office.
From constitutional firmness to personal warmth: Governor Arlekar
Even as the announcement of his appointment as the Governor of Tamil Nadu marked a new chapter in his public life, Keralam Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar began Tuesday with a familiar commitment to his scheduled engagements, boarding the 4 am Vande Bharat Express from Thiruvananthapuram to Palakkad. The early-morning journey, undertaken despite the announcement of his new assignment, drew appreciation on social media, with many viewing it as a reflection of his dedication to public duty. Arlekar's departure from Kerala comes as part of a wider reshuffle of Governors announced by the Centre. Om Prakash Mathur, the Governor of Sikkim, has been appointed as the new Governor of Kerala. When Arlekar arrived in Kerala in January 2025, succeeding Arif Mohammed Khan, he inherited a challenging political atmosphere shaped by prolonged differences between the Governor's office and the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government. There were initial questions about whether he would follow the con...
Newly appointed Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Arlekar maintains schedule, travels to Palakkad
Outgoing Keralam Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Tuesday took an early morning Vande Bharat train to Palakkad, continuing with his official duties hours after the announcement of his appointment as the Governor of Tamil Nadu, sources said. Arlekar boarded the 4 am Vande Bharat train from Thiruvananthapuram, despite the announcement of his new assignment, to attend his previously scheduled engagements in Palakkad, as per sources. President Droupadi Murmu on Monday announced the appointment and transfer of Governors across six states, with Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur appointed as the Governor of Keralam and Keralam Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar transferred to Tamil Nadu, according to a communique issued by Rashtrapati Bhavan. As part of the reshuffle, Braj Mohan Ram has been appointed as the Governor of Odisha, Sudha Yadav as the Governor of Karnataka, Dhal Singh Bisen as the Governor of Uttarakhand, and Dushyant Gautam as the Governor of Sikkim. The appointments wil...
Uttarakhand Congress chief to protest appointment of Dushyant Gautam as Sikkim governor
The News Mill
President Murmu Appoints New Governors For Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, 3 Other States
President Droupadi Murmu on Monday named new governors for six states, combining transfers of serving governors with appointments to other constitutional posts. The reshuffle brings Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar to Tamil Nadu from Keralam, while Om Prakash Mathur will move from Sikkim
President Murmu appoints six Governors in major reshuffle
President Droupadi Murmu appointed four new Governors for the states of Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Odisha, and Sikkim. Om Prakash Mathur has been reassigned as Governor of Keralam while Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar is now Governor of Tamil Nadu. Sudha Yadav, an OBC leader, will head Karnataka after her tenure in the Lok Sabha. Dhal Singh Bisen, an Ayurveda practitioner, will take charge of Uttarakhand.
New Delhi, Oct 12:Keralam Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has been appointed as the Governor of Tamil Nadu, as part of a major gubernatorial reshuffle effected by President Droupadi Murmu on Monday. Om Prakash Mathur, Governor of Sikkim, will be the new Governor of Keralam in place of Arlekar, a communique issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan said. Dushyant Gautam has been appointed the Governor of Sikkim, it said. Senior BJP leader from Jharkhand, Braj Mohan Ram, has been appointed as the Governor of Odisha. Sudha Yadav has been named the Governor of Karnataka and Dhal Singh Bisen will be Uttarakhand Governor, the communique said. These appointments will take effect from the dates they will assume charge of their respective offices, it said.
Rajendra Arlekar moves to Tamil Nadu, Om Prakash Mathur appointed Keralam Governor
The appointments cover six states, with changes in leadership across Tamil Nadu, Keralam, Sikkim, Karnataka, Uttarakhand and Odisha
President Murmu appoints new Governors for six states
President Droupadi Murmu has announced a major gubernatorial reshuffle, appointing new governors for Tamil Nadu, Keralam, Sikkim, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, and Odisha. Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar moves from Keralam to Tamil Nadu, while Om Prakash Mathur becomes the new Keralam Governor. Dushyant Gautam, Sudha Yadav, Dhal Singh Bisen, and Braj Mohan Ram are among the new appointees, bringing diverse political experience to their roles.
President appoints 6 Governors
New Delhi, Oct 12: The President of India has approved the appointment of six Governors across different states, according to a press communiqu issued by Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday. The appointments include changes in the governorships of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Karnataka, Uttarakhand and Sikkim. The new appointments will take effect from the dates on [] The post President appoints 6 Governors appeared first on Northlines .
BJP's caste outreach ahead of UP polls reflected in governor appointments
Dushyant Gautam, a Jatav (SC) leader and general secretary in the BJP's outgoing organisational team, has been appointed Governor of Sikkim, while senior Jharkhand BJP leader Braj Mohan Ram, who belongs to the Dhobi (SC) community, will take over as Governor of Odisha.
Kumaraswamy congratulate Sudha Yadav on appointment as Ktaka Guv
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 12 (IANS) Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy on Monday congratulated Sudha Yadav on her appointment as the Governor of Karnataka by the President of India and welcomed her to the state. In a post on social media platform X, Kumaraswamy said he hoped that her political experience and strong academic background would help strengthen constitutional values and contribute to Karnatakas overall development. I warmly welcome her to Karnataka. With her political experience and strong academic background, I hope her tenure will further strengthen the states constitutional values and contribute to Karnatakas all-round development, he said. Kumaraswamy also wished Yadav a successful tenure and expressed confidence that her guidance would contribute to the service and welfare of the people of Karnataka. BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra stated, Heartiest congratulations to Dr Sudha Yadav ji on being appointed the Hon'ble Governor of Karnataka. A gold-medallist chemist from IIT Roorkee, former MP from Mahendragarh, and wife of Kargil martyr Dy. Commandant Sukhbir Singh Yadav ji, she brings decades of public service and personal sacrifice to Raj Bhavan. We are confident that under her stewardship as the constitutional head of the State, constitutional values and the rule of law will be firmly upheld for every Kannadiga, Vijayendra stated. Union Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Labour & Employment Shobha Karandlaje stated, Heartiest congratulations to Sudha Yadav Ji on her appointment as the Governor of Karnataka, Shri Om Prakash Mathur Ji as the Governor of Kerala, Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar Ji as the Governor of Tamil Nadu, Shri Braj Mohan Ram Ji as the Governor of Odisha, Dhal Singh Bisen Ji as the Governor of Uttarakhand, and Shri Dushyant Gautam Ji as the Governor of Sikkim. Wishing all the distinguished appointees a successful tenure marked by wisdom, integrity, dedicated public service, and valuable contributions to the nations progress and prosperity, she stated. Dr Sudha Yadav has become the second woman to be appointed Governor of Karnataka. V.S. Ramadevi was the first woman to hold the post, serving from 1999 to 2002. The appointment comes nearly five years after Thawar Chand Gehlot became Karnataka Governor in 2021, making Sudha Yadav the second woman to hold the post in the state. Yadav hails from Motla Kalan village in Haryanas Rewari district. She holds an MSc degree from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Roorkee, and a PhD in Chemistry. She is the wife of Sukhbir Singh, a deputy commandant who was killed during the Kargil War. Yadavs appointment brings a new chapter to Karnatakas gubernatorial history, following Ramadevis tenure more than two decades ago.
Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, 3 Other States Get New Governors
Om Prakash Mathur, Governor of Sikkim, will be the new Governor of Kerala in place of Arlekar, a communique issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan said.
Murmu reshuffles governors, makes some fresh appointments too
New Delhi: Keralam Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has been appointed as the Governor of Tamil Nadu as part of a major gubernatorial reshuffle effected by President Droupadi Murmu on Monday, October 12. Om Prakash Mathur, Governor of Sikkim, will be the new Governor of Keralam in place of Arlekar, a communique issued by the Rashtrapati Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
President appoints 4 new state governors; switches governors for 2 states
Keralam Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has been appointed as the Governor of Tamil Nadu, as part of a major gubernatorial reshuffle effected by President Droupadi Murmu on Monday. Om Prakash Mathur, Governor of Sikkim, will be the new Governor of Keralam in place of Arlekar, a communique issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan said. Dushyant Gautam has been appointed the Governor of Sikkim, it said. Senior BJP leader from Jharkhand, Braj Mohan Ram, has been appointed as the Governor of Odisha. Sudha Yadav has been named the Governor of Karnataka and Dhal Singh Bisen will be Uttarakhand Governor, the communique said. These appointments will take effect from the dates they will assume charge of their respective offices, it added.
Keralam, Odisha, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Sikkim get new Governors
Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, who had been serving as Governor of Keralam, and had been given additional charge of Tamil Nadu in March this year, was appointed as Governor of Tamil Nadu
President appoints new governors in six states, Arlekar moves to Tamil Nadu, Om Mathur to Keralam
President Droupadi Murmu has appointed new Governors in six states, according to an official announcement. As per the appointments: Om Prakash Mathur, the Governor of Sikkim, has been appointed Governor of Kerala. Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, the Governor of...
Govt appoints four new state governors; switches governors for two states
The President's office announced the appointment of new governors for multiple Indian states on Monday. Braj Mohan Ram, Dr Sudha Yadav, Dr Dhal Singh Bisen, and Dushyant Gautam were appointed as governors for Odisha, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim, respectively. Om Prakash Mathur was appointed as the new Governor of Kerala after serving in Sikkim. Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar was appointed as the Governor of Tamil Nadu after serving in Kerala.
Maha CM accuses Rahul Gandhi, INDIA bloc of trying to weaken judiciary through protests
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 12 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday launched a scathing attack on Lok Sabha Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi and the INDIA bloc, accusing them of executing a deliberate strategy to pressure and delegitimize India's constitutional institutions, including the Supreme Court, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The Chief Ministers strong reaction came as INDIA bloc leaders, led by Rahul Gandhi, staged a high-voltage march in New Delhi towards the Supreme Court. The opposition leaders are demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah of subverting electoral integrity and obbing the nation. CM Fadnavis criticised the opposition for brandishing copies of the Constitution while systematically undermining constitutional bodies. He alleged that the current protests are part of an extreme far-left plot designed to reject Dr B R Ambedkars Constitution and breed public distrust against democratic systems. Questioning the rationale behind marching to the apex court to force a meeting with the Chief Justice of India (CJI), CM Fadnavis asked, Which section of the Constitution empowers a political march to demand an audience with the Chief Justice of India? Attempting to exert pressure on the Supreme Court is a direct insult to Dr Ambedkar's Constitution. Drawing a sharp contrast, he invoked the 1975 Emergency imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. He highlighted how the Congress regime then suspended fundamental rights and restricted citizens from approaching High Courts and the Supreme Court. We fought against constitutional tampering in 1975, and we will fight again today. We will never allow anyone to alter or tamper with Dr B R Ambedkar's Constitution, he declared. CM Fadnavis asserted that Congress's repeated electoral failures have driven it to resort to anarchy. He also pointed to instances during past agitations at Jantar Mantar, where social media algorithms were manipulated to spread chaos, noting that platforms like Meta later issued apologies over ad-driven content and missteps involving Prime Minister Modi's posts. He stated that Congress needs to stop blaming Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for its political setbacks and instead look inward at its failed leadership. Congress needs to find the reasons for its failure not in EVMs, but in its own leadership. This is a rejected leadership that is repeatedly re-launched, only to fail every time, he noted. Emphasising Congresss declining footprint, CM Fadnavis noted that key states across the nation have rejected the party for decades, including Tamil Nadu: 59 years, West Bengal: 50 years, Uttar Pradesh: 46 years, Sikkim: 42 years, Bihar: 36 years, Tripura: 33 years, Gujarat: 31 years and Madhya Pradesh & Odisha: 23+ years. He added that across 18 states, voters have distanced themselves from Congress for decades, forcing the party to rely heavily on regional partners like the DMK, RJD, and BSP to survive. He accused the opposition of systematically trying to instill distrust in the public mind regarding democratic institutions and the rule of law.
Congress leadership directionless, blames institutions for poll defeats: Shivraj Chouhan
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 12 (IANS) Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday launched a sharp attack on the Congress, accusing its top leadership of being completely directionless and asserting that this was the primary reason behind the party's repeated electoral defeats across the country. Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, Chouhan said, For several years, Congress has been continuously attacking constitutional institutions. Now, it has stooped to a point where putting the blame on constitutional institutions for election defeats has become a pattern. Losing elections one after another and then taking out protests has become the fate of the Congress... The reason for the repeated election defeats is not the Election Commission, but the directionless leadership of Congress itself, Chouhan said, pointing to alleged internal differences in the party's Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Karnataka divisions. The Union Minister further claimed that the Congress had been politically marginalised in several major states for a considerable period, citing Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar as examples. Except for three or four states, Congress has been reduced to a junior partner in every other state, he said. Chouhan also accused the Congress of targeting constitutional institutions for political gain. Congress cannot win the country over by attacking constitutional institutions simply for the sake of holding onto power, he added. In a further attack, Chouhan alleged that the Congress routinely criticised institutions whenever their decisions or actions went against the party's interests. Congress is in such a state that when a court verdict goes against it, it attacks the court. When it loses an election, it attacks the Election Commission. When the Army eliminates terrorists, it attacks the Army. Congress has found it impossible to digest India's progress and the trust of the country's 1.40 crore people. That is why I say, with great anguish, that Congress is now joining hands with forces seeking to divide the country, Chouhan said, reiterating that the party's top leadership was completely directionless. Chouhan also took aim at remarks comparing the Congress to Lord Shiva's wedding procession, and said, Just now, they were saying that Congress is like Lord Shiva's wedding procession. They are talking about Lord Shiva's procession while opposing Lord Ram. This is not Lord Shiva's wedding procession; it is a group of troublemakers spreading chaos and trying to create disorder on the streets, he said. The Agriculture Minister also alleged that the Congress and the INDIA bloc were influenced by foreign powers and accused them of associating with groups and individuals whom he described as being opposed to India's interests. Congress and the INDIA bloc have now become puppets in the hands of foreign powers. For the sake of power, they sometimes rely on the Left, sometimes on cockroaches, sometimes on anti-national forces like George Soros, and sometimes on NGOs, he added. Referring to Rahul Gandhi's earlier statements, Chouhan said, Rahul Gandhi had once said that his fight is against the 'Indian state itself'; what does this mean, Rahul Gandhi? This shows how low Congress and Rahul have stooped. The remarks came amid the Congress-led INDIA bloc's march towards the Supreme Court, seeking the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over the controversy surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Opposition leaders have alleged irregularities in the revision exercise and raised concerns over the electoral rolls, while the BJP has defended the process and accused the Congress of politicising the issue.
Ranji Trophy: Here's why Arunachal Pradesh forfeited their game vs Nagaland
The forfeiture follows Arunachal Pradesh's failure to field their Under-19 team for a Vinoo Mankad Trophy match against Sikkim in Bhubaneswar on Thursday
Ranji Trophy: Arunachal Pradesh forfeit opener against Nagaland amid association crisis
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 11 (IANS) Arunachal Pradeshs domestic cricket campaign has suffered another setback, with the state forfeiting its Ranji Trophy Plate Group opener against Nagaland amid an administrative deadlock that has left its cricket association without a functioning authority to manage team selection and other operations. The match was scheduled to begin on Sunday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, coinciding with the start of the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season. The forfeiture follows Arunachal Pradeshs failure to field a team for their Vinoo Mankad Trophy fixture against Sikkim in Bhubaneswar earlier this week, highlighting the growing impact of the dispute on players across age groups. The crisis stems from a legal battle over the Arunachal Cricket Associations (ACA) September elections, in which Nabam Vivek was elected president. Several district associations subsequently challenged the polls, alleging irregularities and seeking fresh elections. The matter is pending before the Itanagar bench of the Gauhati High Court, which has reserved its order. The court proceedings have effectively paralysed the association, preventing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) from intervening to establish an alternative administrative arrangement while the matter remains pending. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia had earlier told IANS that the legal impasse had already disrupted Arunachal Pradeshs participation in junior domestic competitions, with the absence of a functioning state body making team selection and preparation impossible. There are two factions in the Arunachal Cricket Association, and they are having a litigation issue in the Guwahati High Court-Itanagar Bench. There was some stay order from the High Court about a couple of months ago on the boards functioning. So, due to the issue present in front of that bench, there is no functionary in the Arunachal Cricket Association. The matter was finally heard in the first week of September, but the judgment is yet to be delivered by the bench. So no board is in place there for quite some time, and therefore, there was no preparation to constitute a team for this Vinoo Mankad Trophy, Saikia had told IANS. At the time, Saikia had also expressed uncertainty over the states participation in the Ranji Trophy, with the opening fixture against Nagaland approaching and the court yet to deliver its verdict. As a result, they could not field the team in the junior mens levels. I dont know what will happen over them playing in the Ranji Trophy, starting on October 11. Everybody is waiting for the outcome of the courts verdict. As the matter is sub-judice, the BCCI cannot also step in. Nobody is governing there because of this matter there in the court, added Saikia. The forfeiture of the Ranji Trophy fixture has now turned those concerns into a setback for the states senior mens team. The dispute has also raised questions about Arunachal Pradeshs ability to participate in the remainder of the domestic season if the administrative vacuum continues. The associations September elections became contentious after six district bodies, Lower Siang, Upper Subansiri, Kamle, Tawang, West Siang and Papum Pare, alleged violations of rules during the electoral process. Their challenge led to the courts interim stay on the functioning of the association, leaving competing factions claiming legitimacy without a settled administrative structure. The consequences have extended beyond administrative functioning, with young cricketers missing opportunities to compete at the national level. Arunachal Pradesh has already been unable to field teams in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy and the Under-19 Womens T20 Trophy, raising concerns over the development of players across the states mens and womens programmes. Arunachal Pradesh finished at the bottom of the Ranji Trophy Plate Group standings last season after losing all five matches. The Plate Group also features Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Sikkim.
Fading Aroma of Black Cardamom: A $480 million market may bloom while India's 'black gold' wilts
Indias large black cardamom industry is battling declining plantation health, crop diseases and climate change, threatening farmers livelihoods in Sikkim. Once the worlds largest producer, India has lost ground to Nepal, which now dominates global production. The Sikkim government is backing scientific research, improved planting material and disease-resistant varieties to revive the states valuable black gold crop.
