Is arrested model-actress Shanta a Bangladeshi spy? Police investigates
KOLKATA: Activities of Bangladeshi model and actress Shanta Pal, who has been arrested in Kolkata, are reminiscent of the activities of Jyoti Malhotra, who was arrested on suspicion of being a Pakistani spy, police sources said. Shanta lived a luxurious life as Jyoti. She too travelled to many places in India, including the Nathula Pass, near the China border in Sikkim which raised suspicion about her, a Kolkata Police official said. Jyoti Malhotra is accused of spying for Pakistan. Is Shanta doing the same for Bangladesh? We have been trying to ascertain this in the investigation, the official added. According to police sources, Shanta Pal, a Bangladeshi citizen, came to India in 2023. Since then, she has been staying here. Both her visa and passport have expired. Bangladeshi model-actress held in Kolkata with Indian documents According to police sources, after questioning Shanta and searching her social media pages, it was found that she had become a consultant for others to obtain visas to India. After the upheaval in Bangladesh last year, when the situation between India and Bangladesh made it difficult for Bangladeshi citizens to get Indian tourist visas, Shanta had advised many of them to apply for medical visas. The investigators are checking how many people took her help to get Indian medical visas. Shanta, who has been residing in India, also used to live a colourful life. According to police sources, the Bangladeshi model-actress travelled from Digha in West Bengal to Gangtok in Sikkim and posted pictures and videos on social media. She even reached the Nathula Pass near the China border to create a travel vlog. According to police sources, Shanta was promoting her tourism business through a social media page called Asan Travels Kolkata and Bangladesh. Additionally, investigators are also investigating if she took a loan from an Indian state-owned bank to open a hotel, based on her Facebook post. On Wednesday, the Kolkata Police arrested Shanta in a fraud case from the Bikramgarh area in south Kolkata. She lived there in a rented flat with her parents and husband. The police recovered an Indian voter card, PAN card, and Aadhaar cards of two addresses, one in Kolkata and the other in Burdwan, issued in her name. The police have also recovered a Bangladeshi passport and Bangladesh Airways employee card from her possession. She used to work as a cabin crew for Bangladesh Airways. An admit card for Bangladesh's secondary examination has also been found.
MP Urges Union Minister Gadkari for Urgent Action on Flood-Prone NH 10
New Delhi, Aug 01 : Dr. Indra Hang Subba, the Lok Sabha MP from Sikkim, The post MP Urges Union Minister Gadkari for Urgent Action on Flood-Prone NH 10 appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
The Final Taste: The Story of a Man Who Unlocked Cyanides Secret
Gangtok, Aug 1 : For decades, the taste of cyanide was a mystery, a deadly The post The Final Taste: The Story of a Man Who Unlocked Cyanides Secret appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Himachal Pradesh to reintroduce lotteries after two decade to boost revenue amid rising debt
CHANDIGARH: Facing a mounting debt burden that has crossed Rs 1 lakh crore, the Himachal Pradesh government is exploring new avenues for revenue generation. In a key move, the state cabinet has decided to lift the two-decade-old ban on lotteries, with an estimated annual revenue potential of Rs 50100 crore. The decision comes amid declining central allocations and the discontinuation of GST compensation, which have further strained the states finances. The government hopes that restarting lottery operations will help bridge the fiscal gap without putting an additional burden on taxpayers. In 1999, the then Himachal Pradesh CM Prem Kumar Dhumal had banned the sale of all types of lotteries in the state, under Sections 7, 8 and 9 of the Lotteries (Regulation) Act, 1998 and made its violation punishable under Lotteries (Regulation) Act. In a bid to shore up revenue amid mounting debt, the Himachal Pradesh cabinet has approved the revival of state-run lotteries, a practice banned over two decades ago. The decision follows a recommendation by the Resource Mobilisation Committee headed by Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri. The finance department made a detailed presentation before the cabinet, highlighting the potential of lotteries as a significant revenue source. Citing examples from other states, officials noted that Kerala earns over Rs 13,582 crore annually through lotteries, Punjab around Rs 235 crore, and the hill state of Sikkim nearly Rs 30 crore. Industry Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan said many statesincluding Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, Punjab, West Bengal, and several northeastern statescurrently operate lotteries successfully. There is no nationwide ban on lotteries. If regulated properly, Himachal too stands to benefit, he said. Sources said the state government is likely to introduce specific legislation in the upcoming monsoon session of the assembly, starting August 18, to operationalise the scheme. However, the move has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition. Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur called the decision regressive and harmful. By legalising lotteries, the government is trying to bring back a dark era when many families were ruinedpeople committed suicides, and their homes were auctioned. The BJP strongly condemns this policy, he said.
CM Tamang greets Sikkim Governor on completing one year in office
GANGTOK, July 31: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Thursday greeted Governor Om Prakash Mathur on completing one year in the constitutional post. Today, I had the honour of calling on the Honble Governor of Sikkim, Shri Om Prakash Mathur Ji, at Raj Bhawan. On behalf of the Government of Sikkim and the people []
Malegaon Blast Acquittals: A 17-Year Saga Ends , Pragya Thakur and Seven Others Acquitted
Mumbai, July 31 : Nearly seventeen years after the devastating 2008 Malegaon blast, a special The post Malegaon Blast Acquittals: A 17-Year Saga Ends , Pragya Thakur and Seven Others Acquitted appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
MP Indra Hang Subba Urges Lok Sabha Speaker for Limbu and Tamang Seat Reservation
New Delhi, July 30 : Indra Hang Subba, the Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) from The post MP Indra Hang Subba Urges Lok Sabha Speaker for Limbu and Tamang Seat Reservation appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
GUWAHATI: The Congress lost all its representation in the Meghalaya Assembly on July 30 after its last legislator, Ronnie V Lyngdoh, resigned from the party and merged with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangmas National Peoples Party (NPP). The development took the NPPs tally in the 60-member House to 33. The Congress had bagged five seats in the 2023 Assembly polls. However, three of the MLAs Charles Marngar, Celestine Lyngdoh and Gabriel Wahlang had joined the NPP in September 2024. The fourth, Saleng A Sangma, resigned from the House following his election to the Lok Sabha last year. Ronnie submitted a letter to Assembly Speaker Thomas A Sangma expressing intent to merge with the NPP. He said his decision to join the ruling party was without any precondition. He urged the chief minister to ensure the stability of the state and the development of the people. Despite requests since 2018, I had stuck to the Congress because I was elected on its ticket. Now, my people realised that nearly half my term has ended and we need development and stability, he said. The speaker said he had accepted Ronnies resignation from Congress and his merger with the NPP. I received his letter in which he expressed his willingness to merge with the NPP. I found it to be valid as it satisfied criteria as laid down under the 10th Schedule of the Constitution, the speaker said. Meghalaya is now the third state in the Northeast without any Congress representation in the Assembly. Nagaland and Sikkim are the two other states. The Congress was a dominant force in Meghalaya, but it got reduced to a shadow of its past self in the wake of the NPPs emergence as a powerhouse. The Congresss slide began in November 2021 during the NPP-led coalitions first term in power when 12 of its 17 MLAs, led by former Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, had joined the All India Trinamool Congress. Over time, three other MLAs joined the NPP, and the remaining two others embraced the regional United Democratic Party. The Congress had no MLA when it contested the 2023 Assembly elections.
Sikkim to Observe Aama Samman Diwas on August 10, Honoring Mothers
Gangtok, July 30: In a touching tribute to the indispensable role of mothers in society, The post Sikkim to Observe Aama Samman Diwas on August 10, Honoring Mothers appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
CM PS Tamang holds first meeting of ITS
GANGTOK, July 29: The first official meeting of the Institute for Transforming Sikkim (ITS) was convened today at the Chief Ministers official residence. The Institute for Transforming Sikkim has been conceptualised to serve as a strategic think tank and catalyst for driving transformative development across sectors in the state. At the outset, I had the []
Swollen Teesta affects normal life
GANGTOK, July 29: Movement of vehicles to Sikkim and parts of West Bengals Kalimpong and Darjeeling districts was affected as the swollen Teesta river has breached its embankment at 29 Mile and submerged the NH-10, considered the lifeline of the region, officials said on Tuesday. A landslide at Tarkhola in Kalimpong also disrupted traffic between []
Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim, one of the world's highest lakes, recently captured attention when Anand Mahindra shared a stunning photograph of it. The image, taken by Capt. Sumit Bhatnagar, prompted Mahindra to call the lake a surreal vision, quoting Rabindranath Tagore. Revered by Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus, the lake is also vital to the Teesta River's origin, supporting Sikkim's ecosystem.
Heavy rain lashes Delhi, IMD warns of intense showers across India till August 4
NEW DELHI: Heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms affected several regions of Delhi, providing a respite from the prevailing humid weather conditions on Tuesday morning. IMD predicts heavy rainfall across India until August 4. Northwest India, including East Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh, is expected to experience extremely heavy rainfall on July 29, with heavy showers in Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Haryana. West India, including Konkan and Gujarat, will see isolated heavy rain on July 29 and light to moderate showers for 6-7 days. Northeast India, including Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, is expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall. East and Central India, including Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, will experience isolated heavy rain and thunderstorms. South Peninsular India, including Kerala and Coastal Karnataka, is expected to experience heavy rain on July 29-30, accompanied by strong winds (40-50 kmph). Light to moderate rain and thunderstorms are likely across most regions for the next week. Meanwhile, Air India has issued a travel advisory warning passengers of potential disruptions to flight operations to and from Delhi on Tuesday morning due to gusty winds and rain. The airline urged travellers to check their flight status before heading to the airport and to allow extra time for their journey. Gusty wind and rain may impact flight operations to and from Delhi this morning. Please check your flight status before heading to the airport and allow extra time for your journey, Air India posted on X. According to IMD, it is forecasted that there will be fairly widespread to widespread rainfall over Northwest, Northeast, and Eastern India during the next few days. Scattered to fairly widespread rainfall is also likely over Central and Peninsular India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over East Rajasthan on Wednesday (i.e July 30). Heavy rainfall is also very likely at isolated locations in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, Jharkhand, Kerala, Mahe, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Sikkim, and West Rajasthan on Wednesday. On July 30, Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) are very likely at isolated places in Bihar, Gangetic West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Muzaffarabad, as well as Jharkhand. Additionally, thunderstorms with lightning are expected at isolated locations in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Vidarbha. Strong surface winds are anticipated at isolated places in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Mahe, and Lakshadweep. Squally winds with speeds of 45-55 kmph, gusting to 65 kmph, are likely along and off the coasts of Somalia, Yemen, south Oman, westcentral and eastcentral Arabian Sea, southwest Arabian Sea, and southern parts of the north Arabian Sea. Squally weather with wind speeds of 40-50 kmph, gusting to 60 kmph, is expected over parts of the east-central Arabian Sea, along and off the Konkan, Goa, and Karnataka coasts. Similar conditions with winds of 45-55 kmph, gusting to 65 kmph, are forecast along and off Gujarat and adjoining northeast Arabian Sea.
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Monsoon rains 7 per cent above normal but uneven across regions: IMD
The country received 447.8 mm of rain compared to a normal of 418.9 mm during this period, with significant regional variations. Rajasthan, Ladakh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Sikkim have recorded large excess rainfall, the IMD data showed
Nagaland University-led research assesses stability of high altitude lakes in Sikkim & Arunachal
Nagaland University is leading a research project. It focuses on high-altitude lakes in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. The project assesses lake stability. Researchers will quantify risks from lake outbursts. They will use surveys and flood modelling. The study identifies dangerous glacial lakes. It analyzes permafrost and slope instability. The project also examines ecological risks and freshwater resources.
Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim is a high-altitude lake of great natural beauty. It is also a site of spiritual importance for multiple religions. Anand Mahindra shared a photo of the lake. The lake is the source of the Teesta River. Reaching Gurudongmar requires travel via air or rail to nearby cities, followed by a road trip.
Watch: Indian Army simulates future warfare using AI and drones near China border in Himalayas
The Indian Army tested AI tech in East Sikkim. Exercise DIVYA DRISHTI enhanced battlefield awareness. Systems improved threat detection and response. Operation Sindoor targeted terrorist locations in Pakistan and PoK. Loitering drones and missiles were deployed. India neutralised Pakistani drone attacks. These operations showcase India's focus on modern warfare and self-reliance.
Watch: Chaos in AC coach as unreserved passengers overrun Sikkim Mahananda Express at Katihar
A viral video exposes severe overcrowding on the Sikkim Mahananda Express, showing unreserved passengers allegedly flooding a reserved AC coach at Bihar's Katihar station. This incident has sparked outrage online, raising concerns about passenger safety and the value of reserved tickets.
Indian Army tests AI, surveillance tech in high-altitude Divya Drishti exercise in Sikkim
GUWAHATI: Charting the path for future warfare, the Indian Army conducted a high-altitude technology demonstration exercise named Divya Drishti in east Sikkim in July 2025, testing cutting-edge systems for battlefield awareness, surveillance, and rapid decision-making. On the modern battlefield, the ability to see more, understand quickly, and act fast decides success, said a statement from the Ministry of Defence, underlining the objectives of the exercise. Troops from the Trishakti Corps deployed a combination of ground-based platforms, UAVs, and drones in realistic operational scenarios to evaluate next-generation capabilities. A major highlight was the integration of Artificial Intelligence-enabled sensors with secure communication networks, ensuring real-time data sharing between frontline units and command centres. This enhanced sensor-to-shooter connectivity enabling faster and more effective responses. Lieutenant General Rakesh Kapoor, Deputy Chief of Army Staff, reviewed the exercise and its outcomes on behalf of Army Headquarters. Exercise Divya Drishti has been a great success, said Lt Gen Zubin A Minwalla, General Officer Commanding, Trishakti Corps. We tested future-ready technologies under realistic conditions. The insights gained will shape the Indian Armys future doctrines and tactics, strengthening our ability to operate across all terrains and against any adversary. The exercise reflects the Armys commitment to technological transformation and self-reliance, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and the Armys Decade of Transformation roadmap, the statement added.
India planted 1.78 lakh hectares under CAMPA in 2019-2023; gaps in fund use: Report
NEW DELHI: India raised 1,78,261 hectares of compensatory afforestation against a target of 2,09,297 hectares between 2019-20 and 2023-24, achieving 85 per cent of the planned area, the Supreme Court-mandated Central Empowered Committee has said in a report. The report filed earlier this month revealed that utilisation of funds under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) varies sharply across states. According to the report, Gujarat, Chandigarh, Mizoram and Madhya Pradesh recorded full achievement of their targets. Madhya Pradesh planted 21,746.82 hectares, fully achieving its target of 21,107.68 hectares. Karnataka also met nearly its entire target, covering 2,761.26 hectares against 2,775.12 hectares. Arunachal Pradesh planted 20,719.46 hectares against 21,478.03 hectares, achieving 96.6 per cent. Uttar Pradesh reported 96.4 per cent achievement, planting 5,877.16 hectares against 6,096.7 hectares. Assam covered 1,149.64 hectares against 1,191.82 hectares, achieving 93.8 per cent. Sikkim planted 609.52 hectares, achieving 92.3 per cent, while Punjab achieved 4,019.72 hectares against 4,471.94 hectares, about 89.9 per cent. In contrast, Meghalaya had one of the lowest coverage, achieving only 114.56 hectares against a target of 514.76 hectares or 22.3 per cent. Manipur planted 666.94 hectares against 1,759.84 hectares, achieving 37.9 per cent. Kerala covered 171.80 hectares against 433.06 hectares, achieving 39.7 per cent. West Bengal achieved only 748.25 hectares against 1,911.74 hectares, about 39.2 per cent. Tamil Nadu planted 84.76 hectares against 262.39 hectares, achieving 32.3 per cent. Andhra Pradesh reported 3,471.88 hectares against 8,663.46 hectares, covering only 40.1 per cent. The report also reviewed the use of CAMPA funds during this period. National CAMPA approved Rs 38,516 crore for state annual plans between 2019-20 and 2023-24. States released Rs 29,311 crore to their forest departments, of which Rs 26,001 crore was utilised. This means only 67.5 per cent of the approved outlay was spent. Utilisation varied widely, with Manipur, Andhra Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh utilising 100 per cent, 100 per cent and 97.8 per cent of the funds released to them, respectively. Mizoram reported utilisation above 91 per cent, Sikkim 97.7 per cent, Karnataka 96.6 per cent and Odisha 87.9 per cent. Chhattisgarh recorded 95 per cent utilisation of the funds released, and Gujarat spent more than it released, utilising 116 per cent due to carryover balances. Several states lagged behind. Tamil Nadu used only 67.9 per cent of the funds released, while Jammu and Kashmir spent 62.5 per cent. Haryana also underperformed, using 57.4 per cent. West Bengal spent 81.1 per cent and Delhi just 26.9 per cent, the lowest among all states. Telangana reported 60.4 per cent utilisation, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands spent 53.1 per cent of the released funds. The CEC said that delays in submission of annual plans by states, late release of funds, and the lack of dedicated CAMPA offices affect seasonal forestry operations. Monitoring of survival rates remains weak, and multiple layers in the fund release process contribute to underutilisation, it said. Despite these shortcomings, it said progress under the statutory framework has been significant given initial difficulties, including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. With thousands of hectares of natural forests lost each year to development projects, the report warns that gaps in plantation survival and underutilisation of funds undermine the very purpose of the CAMPA mechanism. The compensatory afforestation regime originated from a series of orders in the landmark TN Godavarman Thirumulpad vs Union of India case of 1995. In these orders, the Supreme Court mandated that when forest land is diverted for non-forest purposes, user agencies must provide funds to compensate for the loss through afforestation on non-forest land or degraded forest land. To formalise and regulate the management of these funds, Parliament enacted the Compensatory Afforestation Fund (CAF) Act, 2016. The Act established the National and State CAMPA to manage the money collected from user agencies. The CAF Rules, 2018, provided the framework for how these funds should be used. The Act and Rules specify that the money transferred to states and union territories can only be used for afforestation, regeneration of degraded forests, wildlife protection and other activities aimed at ecological restoration.
AC coach or general compartment? Overcrowded train in Katihar leaves passengers fuming - Watch
A viral video shows unreserved passengers flooding an AC coach on the Sikkim Mahananda Express at Katihar station, sparking outrage and questions about railway management. The incident, captured in a video, highlights concerns about overcrowding and passenger safety in reserved compartments. Indian Railways has responded by requesting details and escalating the issue to the Katihar division.
Mysterious Interstellar Object 3I/ATLAS Spurs Alarm and Scientific Debate
A new study has ignited both scientific curiosity and widespread concern by postulating that a The post Mysterious Interstellar Object 3I/ATLAS Spurs Alarm and Scientific Debate appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
India to open Cho La in Sikkim under battlefield tourism plan
Authorities are preparing to upgrade infrastructure to handle tourists, and special permits will be issued to allow visits to the Indian side of Doklam. The Sikkim government coordinating closely with the army to ensure smooth implementation
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Earths Rotational Acceleration Prompts Discussions on Negative Leap Second
New Delhi, July 26 : Recent scientific observations indicate an unprecedented acceleration in Earths rotational The post Earths Rotational Acceleration Prompts Discussions on Negative Leap Second appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Sikkim Man Arrested in Siliguri with Firearm and Ammunition
Siliguri, July 26: The Pradhan Nagar Police have arrested a Sikkim resident in Siliguri, seizing The post Sikkim Man Arrested in Siliguri with Firearm and Ammunition appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
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Kolkata Diary | 8th anti-submarine ship rolls out of Garden Reach
Defence PSU Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd has released the eighth and last ship in a series of anti-submarine warfare shallow water crafts (ASW SWCs) built for the Indian Navy. The ship, named Ajay, was inaugurated at an event in Kolkata on July 21. These ships are versatile platforms and can participate in a variety of operations. Designed with low draughts, the crafts are capable of coastal operations, Low Intensity Maritime Operations, and mine-laying. These 77.6-metre-long and 10.5-metre-wide warships are also capable of full-scale sub-surface surveillance in coastal waters and pack a lethal anti-submarine armory comprising lightweight torpedoes, ASW rockets and mines. Old city ghat set for renovation, deal inked In a significant step towards urban renewal and preservation of heritage spaces, the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata and TNS Logi-Park Pvt Ltd have entered an agreement to breathe new life into historic Doi-Ghat at the heart of the old metropolis. Located on the banks of the Hooghly River, at the confluence of Adi Ganga stream and the main channel, Doi-Ghat derives its name from the Bengali word for curd (doi), reflecting its historical link to the local dairy trade. Once a bustling commercial hub, the ghat served as a market where curd and other goods arrived in earthen pots, especially from Howrah, renowned for its dairy produce. At the intersection of key waterways, Doi-ghat had emerged as a centre for trade and daily dialogue between rural Bengal and the emeging metropolis of Calcutta. 15 new hotels to come up in next 5 years Kolkata-based Ambuja Neotia Group announced an agreement for 15 new hotels with the Indian Hotels Company. This agreement is set to expand the partnership to over 40 hotels. The 15 new sites identified to be developed are a combination of greenfield, brownfield and conversion projects across West Bengal, Sikkim and Himachal Pradesh. These include Taj resorts in Sunderban, Darjeeling, Shimla and Rabong, SeleQtions hotels in Kolkata and Siliguri and Tree of Life in Dooars in North Bengal. The projects are expected to become operational in the next five years. Kaushik Pradhan Our correspondent in West Bengal kaushik@newindianexpress.com
Saturday bank holiday: Are banks open or closed today on July 26, 2025?
Indian banks will remain closed on July 26, 2025, because it is the fourth Saturday. Sikkim banks will have a three-day holiday due to Drukpa Tshe-zi. Customers can use digital banking for transactions. The Reserve Bank of India has released a list of bank holidays for July 2025. These holidays vary by region and observance.
Doklam, India-China conflict site in Sikkim, soon to be tourist spot
Marked for battlefield tourism, Doklam became a flashpoint in 2017 when China tried to build a road in territory claimed by Bhutan
NDA likely to commence consultations over its nominee for VP post after July 28
NEW DELHI: With the EC formally initiating the process of electing the next Vice President by appointing a Returning Officer, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is expected to commence consultations for its nominee for the key constitutional post after July 28. This move comes amid indications that the Opposition will also field a candidate. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to speak in both Houses of Parliament after July 28 on Operation Sindoor. In the electoral college, which comprises members of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, the ruling BJP-led NDA holds a clear majority with nearly 425 members out of a total of 782 MPs. This makes its nominee, clear and strong to win the polls to this second-highest constitutional post of Vice President after the President of India. There is growing speculation that the Modi government may once again take a bold step to send a strong message in line with its mantra of womens empowerment by fielding a woman candidate. If this possibility materialises, it would mark a significant representation of nari-shakti, with women occupying both the posts of President and Vice President. In the days to come, the prospect of a woman serving as Army Chief may no longer remain a distant assumption. Remember, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, at a function in Bihar, expressed hope that one day a woman may be seen as the Chief of the Army, remarked a senior BJP leader. Although no official briefing has been made by the BJP regarding the selection of a candidate, sources have indicated that the Vice Presidential candidate will be chosen from within the party, with strong links to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Given recent experiences, the BJP is unlikely to take the risk of selecting a candidate who could prove unpredictable, once in office. The party leadership is expected to begin serious discussions with NDA allies to reach a consensus on a suitable candidate after 29 July, following the Prime Ministers speech in Parliament. One thing is clear, no candidate who has defected to the BJP from other parties, especially Congress, would be considered for this post. The possibility is that our alliance may finally agree on any one of four serving governors who have been associated with the Sangh and are deeply attached with the partys ideology of keeping the Nation and its Constitution above everything, remarked a very senior BJP leader on July 25 to TNIE. Among the prominent names currently being considered are Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot, Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur, Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Bihar Governor Md Arif Khan, and Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel. Election Commission appoints Returning Officer, Assistant ROs to elect Vice-President All are known to have longstanding associations with both the BJP and the Sangh, making them strong contenders. UP Governor Anandiben Patel, the first woman Chief Minister of Gujarat, served in the Rajya Sabha from 1994 to 1998 and has also held the position of the partys national vice president. A gold medallist in education, she was honoured with the Best Teacher award. Karnataka Governor Gehlot holds a D.Litt degree and has been associated with the BJP since its days as the Jan Sangh. A former two-term member of the Rajya Sabha and an RSS swayamsevak since 1960, he has travelled widely abroad for academic and constitutional exchanges and is considered to have a solid grasp of parliamentary processes. Om Prakash Mathur, currently the Governor of Sikkim, has served on the BJPs Central Election Committee and as the partys vice president. He has visited many countries to study democratic governance and was a Rajya Sabha MP from 2008 to 2014. He also worked with the RSS as a pracharak. There is a growing speculation that, taking into account the future political dynamics and learning from Jagdeep Dhankhars tenure, the BJP may opt for a senior party member for the Vice Presidential post, ex officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. With state assembly elections due in Bihar in OctoberNovember, and in key states such as West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Assam next year, electoral considerations are also expected to influence the final decision. Meanwhile, the Election Commission (EC) announced on July 25 said that, in consultation with the Ministry of Law and Justice and with the consent of the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, it has appointed the Secretary General, Rajya Sabha, PC Mody as the Returning Officer for the Vice Presidential election, 2025. Garima Jain, Joint Secretary in the Rajya Sabha Secretariat, and Vijay Kumar, Director in the same body, have been appointed as Assistant Returning Officers. CM Revanth Reddy urge Centre to appoint Dattatreya as next Vice-President of India
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Per capita income: Sikkim dethrones UT from Top 3
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Patel Engineering secures Rs 240-cr order from NHPC for Teesta-V project
NEW DELHI, July 21: Patel Engineering on Monday said it has bagged an order worth Rs 240 crore from state-owned NHPC for civil and hydro mechanical works at Teesta-V project in Sikkim. The order involves modification of diversion tunnel into a tunnel spillway arrangement civil and hydro mechanical works for package 6 Teesta-V power station, Patel Engineering said in a statement. The project is located in the South District of Sikkim and is scheduled to be completed within [] The post Patel Engineering secures Rs 240-cr order from NHPC for Teesta-V project appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
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Alternate route to strategic Depsang, DBO to be operational by end of 2026
NEW DELHI: An alternate route to the strategically significant Depsang and Daulet Beg Oldie (DBO) is in advanced stages of development and expected to become fully operational from November 2026. The new road, which runs almost parallel to the existing Darbuk--Shyok--Daulet Beg--Oldie (DSDBO) road, follows the alignment of Sasoma--Saser La--Saser Brangsa--Gapshan--DBO. Presently the Darbuk-Shyok-Daulet Beg-Oldie (DSDBO) exists as the only road link for the forces, which is under the direct observation of the Chinese forces at some locations. The strategically important 255-km DSDBO road ends at 16,614 ft high DBO, about 20 km short of the 18,700-ft high KK Pass. It has around 37 bridges, of various lengths and width, making the communication smooth. The alternate road to DBO, which is about 130-km-long, has a total of 9 bridges of 40T capacity. Sources close to the development said: We have completed everything from Sasoma to Saser Brangsa and ahead of it, eastward---Murgo and Gapshan---over 70 per cent work is done. We are certain that the entire stretch will be operational by October-November next year. For the forces, the new route will give another communication line and facilitate faster troop-armament movement. Almost all artillery weapons, including the Bofors were moved on this axis till Saser Brangsa to test its carrying load capacity, sources said. The new road will also beef up the Siachen battlefield, as it branches off from Sasoma in the Nubra Valley, which is on the route to the Siachen Base Camp from Leh. The route will converge with the Darbuk-Shyok-DBO road at Murgo, reducing the distance from Leh to DBO by 79 km from 322-km via DSDBO road to 243-km via the new road. It will also reduce the travel time from 2 days to 11-12 hours. The work on strengthening the bridges is also on. We are also converting the existing 40T capacity bridges into 70T capacity bridges. Once they are completed, the army will be able to deploy heavier vehicles, and other armoured vehicles, which are crucial for offensive and defensive operations, particularly in challenging terrains. Plans are afoot to make it an all-weather road, the Border Road Organisation (BRO) is also building a 8-km-long tunnel at Saser La at 17,660-feet high and currently it is at detailed project report (DPR) stage. It will take 4-5 years to complete the tunnel project. BRO's projects Himank and Vijayak are responsible for construction and maintenance of critical road infrastructure in Ladakh. India shares 832 km long Line of Actual Control with China in eastern Ladakh. From Sasoma to Saser Brangsa, the construction work is being looked at by the BROs Project Vijayak, involving a cost of Rs 300 crore. Ahead of Saser Brangsa till DBO, the BROs Project Himank is mandated to build the road and bridges, costing Rs 200 crore. The alternate route will have larger accrued military benefits on-ground: the deployment of troops, weapons and logistics to forward bases in DBO and other areas would become easier since Siachen base camp is near. The Siachen base camp functions as the third stage of acclimatisation, which is crucial due to high-altitude and low oxygen levels. With acclimatisation, the human body adjusts to the lower oxygen levels and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. This makes the base camp crucial for effective deployment and improved troop efficiency. The momentum for the second road to DBO picked up as the military tensions between India and China escalated. TNIE broke this story in May 2020, as skirmish took place between the PLA Troops and Indian Army soldiers both sides mobilised a large body of troops in a standoff mode since May 2020. Although disengagement, moving back from the standoff location, from all friction points have taken place the troops remain in the vicinity. Significance of the new road The new road is significant as it will serve as an alternate route to the existing DSDBO road, which is vulnerable to the PLAs direct line of sight and can be threatened, as happened in Galwan during critical times. The Galwan valley is on the same stretch, and the Chinese had carried out a build-up along the Galwan River valley during the stand-off. This also led to violent clashes between the two sides in June 2020, resulting in the killing of soldiers from both sides. This new route will give an alternate and safe access to the militarily important Sub Sector North (SSN), which includes DBO and Depsang plains. SSN, which includes Depsang, is strategically vital. Depsang is also a crucial link to Siachen and the Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) airfield, the highest in the world at an altitude of 5065 metres (16,614 feet). The terrain permits large-scale armour operations, and China has multiple roads supplying the area, while India has only the DSDBO Road. There are 65 patrolling points along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, stretching from the south of the Karakoram Pass to the southern part of Demchok. The roads strategic importance is that it connects Leh to DBO, virtually at the base of the Karakoram Pass that separates Chinas Xinjiang Autonomous Region from Ladakh, the source said. Although disengagement at Depsang took place, in October 2024, it had triggered the Indian side to beef up its line of communication. The standoff at Depsang was significant and sensitive, as Chinese troops blocked access to five patrolling points -- 10, 11, 11A, 12, and 13. The blocked area was around 952 sq. km, according to sources. The five patrolling points in question are east of the strategic Sub-Sector North road, close to the LAC but within Indian territory. The bailey bridge to Hot Spring being assembled by BRO personnel. What is Line of Actual Control? Undemarcated borders between India and China, where both countries exercise actual control on ground and have differing perceptions, is the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with a length of 3,488km. It is further defined into 3 sectors Western (Eastern Ladakh), Central sector (Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand), Eastern Sector (Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh). The current focus area under tension is Eastern Ladakh (832km). To strengthen connectivity and bolster strategic infrastructure in border regions, the Government of India established the Border Roads Organisation in 1960. With the ongoing threat perception involving the western and northern borders and in order to step up the pace of work in remote and high-altitude areas, the BRO has been shifting heavy machines close to the construction sites. It has been carrying out upgrades of technology, equipment, and engineering skills. Border Roads Organisation is concentrating simultaneously on the Northern and North-Eastern Borders and for the holistic development of roads in border areas. ]The tensions prevail specifically along the eastern Ladakh and there is precautionary deployment all along the claimed 3,488 kms long Line of Actual Control. More than 1,20,000 soldiers of the Indian army and PLA amassed along the LAC with heavy equipment like missiles, artillery, and tanks. Roads prove integral to maintain such heavy deployment, however, the high altitude and rarefied atmosphere makes construction activities difficult.
Stretch of NH-10 between Sikkim, Bengal closed for traffic after landslip
Clearance activities are underway on the stretch following landslides at Birik Dara in Kalimpong district of West Bengal
Stretch of NH-10 between Sikkim, Bengal closed for traffic after landslides
Landslides and rockfall have temporarily shut down a section of National Highway-10, which connects Sevoke in West Bengal and Rangpo in Sikkim. Clearance operations are in progress at Birik Dara in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal. NHIDCL anticipates reopening the route in the next 24 hours, but continuous rock and debris falls are causing delays.
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Padma Shri Sanu Lama accorded state funeral in Gangtok, Sikkim CM Tamang pays respects
GANGTOK, July 18: The funeral of Padma Shri awardee and eminent literary figure of Sikkim, Gadul Singh Lama, popularly known as Sanu Lama, was held here on Friday with full state honours, in accordance with Buddhist tradition. Lama passed away in West Bengals Siliguri on July 12, following age-related ailments. He was 86. Lama was []
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Ladakh leaders demand statehood, Sixth Schedule status in next round of talks with Centre
SRINAGAR: Ongoing dialogue between the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ladakh leaders is set to reach a decisive stage, as key demands for statehood and 6th Schedule status take centre stage in the upcoming round of talks. Following the introduction of a domicile policy for the Union Territory (UT), stakeholders in Ladakh see this phase of negotiations as critical to securing greater autonomy and constitutional safeguards. The next round of talks with the HPC of MHA, chaired by the Union MoS Home, would mainly focus on our demand for statehood with legislature and 6th Schedule status for Ladakh, said Chering Dorje, executive member of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), to this newspaper. The last round of talks on 27 May was termed successful, as it led to the introduction of the domicile policy for the Ladakh UT, with a 15-year eligibility timeline starting from 2019. Following the 27 May discussions, the President also promulgated the Union Territory of Ladakh Reservation (Amendment) Regulation, 2025, to reserve 85 per cent of jobs in the region. It will be for the first time that our demand for statehood and 6th Schedule status for Ladakh will be directly discussed with the Centre, Dorje added. These are our main demands and we wont budge from it. He, however, noted that unfortunately, they had not yet received an invitation for the next round of talks. We were hopeful of a meeting this month, but so far we have not received any invitation, Dorje said. After the 27 May meeting with the HPC, LAB chairman and former BJP MP Thupstan Chhewang resigned from the forum. Following his departure, LAB inducted climate activist Sonam Wangchuk into its subcommittee as its representative to the High-Powered Committee. The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), an amalgamation of various political, social, trade and religious groups from the Leh and Kargil districts of Ladakh UT, are jointly spearheading the agitation for the grant of statehood, 6th Schedule inclusion, two Lok Sabha seats, and a separate Public Service Commission for Ladakh. Senior KDA leader Sajjad Kargili said the Centre had not invited them for a fresh round of talks, and no one had received any formal communication in this regard. He stated that whenever the talks are held, they will focus entirely on statehood and 6th Schedule status for Ladakh. Kargili added that after 20 July, the KDA and LAB would hold a joint meeting to chalk out a future strategy on how to continue their agitation. We will evolve a consensus on the roadmap. If we dont receive any invitation for talks, then we dont have any option but to continue our agitation to press for fulfilment of our demands. Protests can also be part of our programme, he said. In the past, both KDA and LAB have organised a series of protests and sit-ins across Ladakh, Jammu, and Delhi to urge the Centre to fulfil their demands. To further strengthen their case for statehood, Ladakh leaders pointed out that if Sikkim and Mizoram could be granted statehood, the same should apply to Ladakh. When Sikkim was granted statehood in 1975, its population comprised about 2 lakh with an area of 7,000 sq km. Ladakh has over 3 lakh population and spans over 60,000 sq km. Strategically, Ladakh holds more importance than Sikkim, they said. Ahead of the crucial round of talks, the Centre appointed J&K BJP leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Kavinder Gupta as the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh UT. He is the first political figure to be appointed as LG of Ladakh UT. Gupta has said that he would initiate wide-ranging consultations with all stakeholders in Ladakh regarding their demands for statehood and inclusion under the 6th Schedule of the Constitution for the cold desert region.
Sikkim govt issues circular to all employees emphasising importance of integrity, discipline
GANGTOK, July 16: The Sikkim government has issued a circular to all its employees, emphasising the importance of maintaining integrity and discipline within the civil service. The circular, issued by the Chief Secretary on Wednesday, highlights concerns over instances where employees have allegedly resorted to political and other undue influences to sway decisions related to []
Sikkim: School teacher, two others arrested
GANGTOK, July 16: A school teacher and two others were arrested by police for allegedly sexually assaulting a minor student in Sikkims Gyalshing district, an officer said on Wednesday. The minor, a class 7 student, had complained that the teacher and the two others had sexually abused her. On July 14, the headmistress of the []
School Teacher Arrested For Sexually Assaulting Student, 14, In Sikkim: Cops
A school teacher and two others were arrested by police for allegedly sexually assaulting a minor student in Sikkim's Gyalshing district, an officer said on Wednesday.
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Sikkim Declares Yakten As India's First Digital Nomad Village
A remote village in Sikkim's Pakyong district was officially declared India's first 'Digital Nomad Village', under the state government's 'Nomad Sikkim' initiative.
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Sikkims Yakten declared Indias first digital nomad village
The project under the Nomad Sikkim initiative aims to transform strategic locations in the Himalayan State into year-round hubs for digital professionals
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Centre Extends Home Secretary Govind Mohans Tenure Till Aug 22 Next Year
New Delhi, Jul 11: The Centre on Friday extended the tenure of Home Secretary Govind Mohan till August 22 next year, according to an official order. Mohan, a 1989 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Sikkim cadre, was named as the Home Secretary in August 2024. He took over the charge from Ajay Kumar Bhalla on completion of his tenure on August 22 last year. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved Mohans extension in services [] The post Centre Extends Home Secretary Govind Mohans Tenure Till Aug 22 Next Year appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan gets a one-year extension in service
NEW DELHI: Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, a 1989-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of Sikkim cadre, has been given nearly one year extension in service, the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) said in an order issued on Friday. Mohan is scheduled to superannuate from service on September 30, 2025. In the official order, a copy of which is with TNIE, the DoPT said, The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved extension in services of Shri Govind Mohan, lAS (SK:89) as Home Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs beyond the date of his superannuation i.e. 30.09.2025 up to 22.08.2026 or until further orders, whichever is earlier, in terms of the provisions ofFR 56 (d) and Rule 16 (1A) of the All India Services (Death-Cum-Retirement Benefits) Rules, 1958. Mohan was appointed as the Home Secretary of the country on August 14 last year, and he took charge of his new assignment in the North Block on August 23. He was earlier serving as the Union Culture Secretary before being appointed to the top bureaucratic post, next only to the Cabinet Secretary. Initially, he was appointed as the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the MHA. Among his peer group, Mohan is considered one of the brilliant officers currently serving the government and is known for his diligence. Earlier, he also served in the MHA as the additional secretary and had handled several key divisions, including the Union Territories and Border Management.
Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan tenure extended till Aug 2026
The Sikkim cadre officer was appointed as the Home Secretary last year, and he assumed office on August 23, 2024. A Home Secretarys tenure is typically for two years.
Wildlife Board Clears Over 30 Defence Projects In Protected Areas Across Multiple States
New Delhi, Jul 11: The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL), headed by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, has recommended 32 defence infrastructure proposals involving diversion of land from protected areas and eco-sensitive zones across Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Ladakh and Sikkim. These include construction of strategic roads, helipads, training areas, ammunition depots, housing for troops and artillery regiments, with the bulk of the projects located in Ladakhs ecologically fragile Karakoram and Changthang sanctuaries. In Arunachal Pradesh, the [] The post Wildlife Board Clears Over 30 Defence Projects In Protected Areas Across Multiple States appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Relentless Rain Triggers Landslides in Sikkims Yuksom, Destroys Bridges and Cuts Off Key Routes
HT DIGITAL GUWAHATI, JULY 11: Torrential and persistent rain in Sikkims remote town of Yuksom, which is in the Gyalshing district, has caused several landslides, leading to massive disruption. Officials said on Thursday that two vital wooden bridges have been washed away, effectively severing key routes of access and isolating the area. One of the []
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Heavy Rain Triggers Landslides, Destroys Bridges in Sikkim
Key wooden bridges swept away in Gyalshing district, cutting off vital patrol and village routes amid relentless rains
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Sikkim Faces Worst Monsoon Deficit in Five Years, Raising Alarms Over Agriculture and Water Supply
HT DIGITAL GANGTOK, JULY 9: Sikkim is faced with its worst monsoon deficit in five years currently, as a 35% rainfall shortage was reported from June 1 to July 8, 2025. This was established by the India Meteorological Departments (IMD) Meteorological Centre at Gangtok, which is raising alarm over the effects on agriculture, water resources, []
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Breastfeeding Pods: Symbol Of Changing Times For Nursing Mothers In Sikkim
A large number of women of Sikkim are heaving a sigh of relief as they are now able to breastfeed their babies in the comfort of a clean, secure private space in crowded public places, thanks to an effort of the state government.
North-East to be countrys development engine: Jyotiraditya Scindia
INDORE, July 7: Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Monday said the Narendra Modi government is moving towards making the north eastern region the countrys development engine. Total investments of Rs 5 lakh crore have been made in this region, comprising Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim, in the last 11 years, []
China protests PM Modis greetings to Dalai Lama, warns India on Tibet sensitivities
China on Monday lodged a protest with India over Prime Minister Narendra Modis birthday greetings to the Dalai Lama and the participation of Indian ministers at his 90th birthday celebrations, asking New Delhi to respect Beijings sensitivities on Tibet-related matters, reported PTI . The position of the Chinese government on Tibet-related issues is consistent and clear, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a media briefing in Beijing. Responding to questions about Prime Minister Modis greetings and the presence of Indian officials, including Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, at the birthday event, Mao said, As is widely known, the 14th Dalai Lama is a political exile who has long engaged in anti-China separatist activities and seeks to separate Xizang from China under the cloak of religion. Beijing refers to Tibet as Xizang. India needs to be fully cognizant of the sensitivity of issues related to Xizang, see clearly the anti-China and separatist nature of the 14th Dalai Lama, honour the commitments India has made to China on issues related to Xizang, act prudently, and stop using those issues to interfere in Chinas internal affairs. China has protested to India regarding its actions, she added. On Sunday, Prime Minister Modi had extended warm wishes to the Dalai Lama on his birthday. His message has inspired respect and admiration across all faiths. We pray for his continued good health and long life, Modi posted on X. Several Indian leaders, including Union ministers Kiren Rijiju and Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, and Sikkim minister Sonam Lama, also attended the celebrations in Dharamshala. China had earlier raised objections to Rijijus statement last week that the process of the Dalai Lamas reincarnation should be guided by the Tibetan spiritual leaders own wishes. Beijing urged India to act cautiously on Tibet-related issues to prevent potential setbacks in bilateral relations. Mao reiterated that India should clearly recognise what China views as the separatist character of the Dalai Lama and respect the understandings between the two countries regarding Tibet. Last week, the Dalai Lama reaffirmed that the institution of the Dalai Lama would continue and asserted that only the Gaden Phodrang Trust holds the authority to recognise his reincarnation. China maintains that the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama must strictly follow religious rituals, historical conventions, and Chinese regulations, including the use of the centuries-old practice of drawing lots from a 'golden urn' and approval by the central government. Mao said the current 14th Dalai Lama was recognised through this procedure. Beijing insists that future reincarnations must comply with these protocols, which it considers essential to safeguarding its sovereignty. (With inputs from PTI)
Work hard, remain grounded: Sikkim CM
GANGTOK, July 5: Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Saturday exhorted the probationary officers of the Sikkim State Civil Services (SCS) and Sikkim Finance and Accounts Services to discharge their duties with dedication in order to make a meaningful contribution in development of the state. I interacted with the probationary officers of the 2025 batch []
Sikkim CM inspects site for upcoming peacock park project in Soreng district
GANGTOK, July 4: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Friday conducted a site inspection of the upcoming Peacock Park project in Soreng district. The project, coming up at Baiguney, is being built at an estimated cost of 15 crore. Taking to social media, the CM said he reviewed the proposed layout plans and examined []
BJP president after PMs return from Brics
NEW DELHI: With organisational elections now completed in over a dozen states, there is a strong possibility that the BJP will announce the name of a consensus candidate as its next national president shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi returns from his foreign tour on July 9 or 10. The process of organisational elections is over in most states. New state presidents were recently elected in Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and other states. In key states such as Bihar, Sikkim, Goa, and Assam, new chiefs are already in place. The process will shortly conclude in the remaining states, including Uttar Pradesh. Amid this process, the BJP has reportedly shortlisted five candidates, and the final selection is expected to take place between July 10 and 19, before the Monsoon session of parliament on July 21. Among the shortlisted candidates are Union ministers Bhupendra Yadav, Dharmendra Pradhan, Prahlad Joshi, Nirmala Sitharaman, Vanathi Srinivasan, and BD Sharma. Bhupendra Yadav, considered one of the partys finest electoral managers for regional elections, is said to be the frontrunner. Yadav, who belongs to the OBC category, has played a key role in formulating electoral strategies for several state elections, including those in Maharashtra (2024), Uttar Pradesh (2017), and Bihar (2020). If Yadav emerges as the consensus candidate, it will send a strong message ahead of the Bihar assembly election, where the Yadav community plays a crucial role in determining the outcome in over 70-90 constituencies, commented a BJP leader from Bihar. Pradhan is viewed as the second strongest contender, owing to his strong connections with both the RSS and the partys organisational machinery. Prahlad Joshi, hailing from South India, where the BJP is focusing its Mission South plan, is also seen as a possible consensus candidate. He is known for his electoral strategies and managing party affairs, particularly in South India. The name of a woman leader, who also serves as the national president of the BJP Mahila Morcha, is also circulating as a potential candidate. Other prominent names include Arun Singh and Tarun Chugh (both national general secretaries), and Dr Sudha Yadav, who is reportedly trusted by both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the RSS. Final selection likely before Monsoon session Amid this process, the BJP has reportedly shortlisted five candidates, and the final selection is expected to take place between July 10 and 19, before the Monsoon session of parliament on July 21. New state presidents were recently elected in Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and other states.
Congress leaders reference to Sikkim as neighbouring country draws criticism in Himalayan state
GANGTOK, July 2: Congress leader Ajoy Kumars reference to Sikkim as a neighbouring country has drawn widespread criticism from various sections of the society, including political parties, in the Himalayan state. Kumar, during a press conference on Tuesday, had referred to the state as a neighbouring country in the same frame alongside Bangladesh, Nepal and []
India's Only Tax-Free State: Why Residents Get Income Tax Exemption?
All residents of Sikkim are exempt from income tax payment on their annual earnings.
First batch of Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims return to India, feted by Sikkim
Aged between 19 and 69 years, the pilgrims recount their once-in-a-lifetime experience
GST revenue up 6.2% to 1.85 lakh crore in June 2025, slowest growth in 4 years
It is a positive sign that the data shows strong pockets of growth in GST collections in regions such as Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Lakshadweep, and Ladakh, Saurabh Agarwal, Tax Partner EY said
IMD issues 'very heavy rainfall' alert across India for coming 6-7 days
NEW DELHI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday said very heavy rainfall is expected in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan over some of the next six to seven days. It said the monsoon will remain active in many parts of northwest, central and east India during this period. Heavy rain is also likely in Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim and Jharkhand. Some days may see heavy showers in Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand and Odisha. The IMD said heavy to very heavy rain may occur at some places in Konkan and Goa, Madhya Maharashtra and Gujarat. Saurashtra and Kutch may also receive heavy rain in the next seven days. Northeast India is likely to get heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places during this period. Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala and Karnataka may receive heavy rain on some days of the week, it said. The weather department on Monday predicted above-normal rainfall in the country in July and asked authorities and people in central India, Uttarakhand and Haryana to stay alert due to the risk of flooding. It said rainfall is likely to be below normal in large parts of the northeast, many areas of eastern India and extreme southern peninsular India. IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said during an online press briefing that there is a high chance of heavy rainfall in central India and the adjoining southern peninsula. This includes east Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, adjoining areas of Vidarbha and Telangana and parts of Gujarat and Maharashtra. We should monitor the catchment areas of rivers such as the Godavari, Mahanadi and Krishna. Our models show a high probability of above-normal rainfall in the upper Mahanadi catchment, which includes Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. There are several other rivers in the region. We must closely watch rainfall activity and the water levels in reservoirs, he said. He added that good rainfall is also expected in Uttarakhand and Haryana. This region includes several cities and towns, including Delhi. Many south-flowing rivers originate in Uttarakhand. We must take precautions for all these river catchments, cities and towns, Mohapatra said.
A statement from the MP's office said Indra Hang Subba briefed about the ongoing crisis faced by the people and tourism stakeholders in North Sikkim following repeated natural disasters
Watch: Kailash Manasarovar Yatra | Can India & China make a new beginning? | Worldview
Over the past week, 36 Indian pilgrims have crossed over into China via the Nathu La Pass from Sikkim.
Multiple heritage sites in Bengal, Sikkim starved of funds for two-years
RTI findings reveal a disconnect between rising tourist interest and plummeting conservation funding at key heritage sites in West Bengal and Sikkim
DPIIT secy reviews infra projects of five states
The government is actively addressing hurdles in major infrastructure projects across Jharkhand, Sikkim, Nagaland, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh. A recent review, led by DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia, tackled 18 issues in Jharkhand projects worth 34,213 crores and other projects in northeastern states.
Army deployed BonV Aeros GPR drone for rescue operations in Sikkim
MUMBAI, Jun 25: Deep tech startup BonV Aero on Wednesday said the Indian Army deployed its Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) drone to support rescue operations following the landslide in Lachen, Sikkim, early this month. The deployment followed the Armys immediate need for a reliable solution to scan debris in an inaccessible, high-altitude region, it added. The Bhubaneswar-based BonV Aero had developed its UAV platform specifically for sub-surface scanning in complex environments. Within 24 hours of the incident, the Army mobilised [] The post Army deployed BonV Aeros GPR drone for rescue operations in Sikkim appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
827 Indians evacuated from Israel; caregivers and students among returnees
NEW DELHI: After six-and-a-half years of working in Israel, Reetaraj Gurung had planned to return home to Siliguri, West Bengal, on 15 June to reunite with her husband and daughter. However, her journey was disrupted when Israel launched air strikes on Iran just two days earlier, leading to the closure of airspace over Israel, Jordan, Iran, and Iraq. Reetaraj finally made it home on Tuesday (24 June) on an evacuation flight from Jordan, facilitated by the Indian government. She had been employed as a caregiver for a 104-year-old woman in Jerusalem. Describing the situation in Israel over the past fortnight, she said: The past 12 days have been extremely tough. Whenever sirens blared in the streets, we were instructed to immediately hide in bunkers. These alarms would go off multiple times a day. If it happened during the day, I would rush with my patient in a wheelchair. But at night, I was told to just save myself. Expressing relief, she added, I feel so much at peace now. Im grateful to see my family again and thank the Indian government for bearing all expenses. They arranged buses to Jordan and a flight to Delhi. Pashi Sherpa, another caregiver from Sikkim who looks after a 32-year-old disabled man in Haifa, is still awaiting evacuation. Ive worked in Israel since 2012. I lost my husband and am supporting my two daughters alone. The last week has been terrifying. At all hours, we hear alarms and rush for shelter. My mother-in-law has passed away in Gangtok, and I hope I can return home soon, she said. According to a source at the Indian Embassy in Israel, nearly 40,000 Indians are currently residing in the country. Of these, around 20,000 work as caregivers or domestic workers, while 13,000 are employed in the construction sector. The remaining include students pursuing PhD and post-doctoral studies. The official confirmed that 827 Indians have returned to India between 2224 June via four evacuation flights under Operation Sindhu Israel, coordinated by the Ministry of External Affairs. Evacuees were transported by road to Jordan or Egypt, from where special flights were arranged. No flights were operated on Wednesday due to a ceasefire declared the previous night. This conflict is different, the source said. Unlike previous wars that affected the northern (Lebanon border) or southern (Gaza border) regions, this time even Tel Aviv has been targeted. Theres widespread panic among both Indians and Israelis. Naren Thapa, founder of the IGCI Care Foundationan NGO that supports Indian workers in Israelhighlighted the growing presence of Indians in the country. Following the Hamas attack on October 7 2023, demand for Indian workers surged. Around 10,000 construction workers and caregivers have arrived in the past two years. The Indian government is highly supportive and offers prompt assistance to anyone seeking to leave. However, not all have welcomed the deployment of Indian workers to conflict zones. Rajiv Dimri, General Secretary of the All India Central Council of Trade Unions, criticised the move: We oppose sending 12,000 Indian workers to a war-torn country like Israel to replace Palestinian labourers. The government must prioritise their safe repatriation with the same urgency shown in evacuating Indian students from Iran.
KHNAM tells govt to adopt Sikkims tourism model
SHILLONG, June 24: The Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) on Tuesday urged the Meghalaya government to adopt the Sikkim model to boost economic activity through tourism. In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, KHNAM working president Thomas Passah recalled that in 2017, the party had submitted a representation proposing that vehicles [] The post KHNAM tells govt to adopt Sikkims tourism model appeared first on The Shillong Times .
Army Uses Drone Tech In Sikkim Landslide Rescue
Amid a series of massive landslides in Sikkim earlier this month, the Army has now combined cutting-edge tech with human efforts in its rescue operations as a new model of first response to disasters in the Eastern Himalayas.
Landslides disrupt traffic on NH-10 connecting Sikkim, West Bengal; debris clearance underway
GANGTOK: Several landslides triggered by incessant rains for the last few days occurred along National Highway 10, disrupting traffic movement on the road that connects Sikkim with West Bengal, officials said on Tuesday. Roadblocks have been reported along the 52-km highway stretch, which connects Sevoke in West Bengal with Rangpo in Sikkim, causing inconvenience to travellers, they said. The roadblocks were reported from 29 Mile, Kali Jhora, Seti Jhora, Selfie Dara, Birik Dara, Likhuveer, Melli and Bhalu Khola in West Bengal's Kalimpong district, they said. Officials of the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) said operations related to the clearing of debris and restoration of the road are underway. Heavy machinery has been deployed to clear roadblocks due to multiple landslides, they said. One-way traffic movement has started in some areas. Traffic jams are inevitable as landslides continue in some areas regularly. The debris will be cleared soon as work is being carried out on war footing, an official said. Police personnel from Kalimpong district have also been deployed to regulate the traffic movement, he said. The district police have urged commuters to plan their travels according to the ground situation.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to talk LAC during China visit on June 25-26
NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Defence Ministers Meeting (SCO-DMM) in Qingdao, China. Notably, Singh and Pakistan Defence Minister Khwaja Asif will be attending the SCO meeting, marking the first such occasion since Operation Sindoor . However, no bilateral meeting is planned with Asif. Coincidentally, Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur, on Friday, flagged off the first batch of Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims since the 2020 India-China border standoff on Sikkim. It is seen as a step to ameliorate the bilateral situation. Ten batches plan to visit Kailash Mansarovar from Nathu la this year. Singh is expected to hold bilateral meetings, including talks with his Chinese counterpart Admiral Dong Jun, and Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov. The Defence Minister last met the Admiral at the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting-Plus forum in Vientiane, in November last year. The meeting is expected to add to the relationship normalisation process between India and China which continue to jointly deploy more than one lakh soldiers with equipment and armaments along the 832-km Eastern Ladakh since May 2020. The news was first reported by TNIE. There has been a disengagement of troops from multiple points, including Depsang Plains and Demchok, and talks, both military and diplomatic, continue to improve the situation further. India has been steadfast in its stance on maintaining status quo, as it existed before May 2020. In a sign of thaw, troops of the Indian Army and Chinese PLA disengaged to their designated points as per the agreement reached by the Corps Commanders of the two sides in October 2024. That disengagement was only for Depsang and Demchok. Army sources added that while the disengagement has been completed, talks will continue at local commanders level. India steadfast on restoration of status quo In October last year, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi reiterated, We want the situation that existed pre-April 2020 restored, whether its ground occupation, buffer zones or patrolling. Till that time... the situation remains sensitive; we are prepared to face any contingency.
33 Pilgrims Leave For Kailash Yatra
Tourism and civil aviation department additional chief secretary C.S. Rao welcomed the pilgrims on behalf of the state government and the people of Sikkim.
First batch of 33 pilgrims leaves for Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via Sikkim's Nathula
Governor Om Prakash Mathur flagged off the yatra at a function held at the Sino-Indian frontier in East Sikkim, officials said
First Batch Of 33 Pilgrims Leaves For Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Via Sikkims Nathula
Gangtok, Jun 20: The first batch of 33 pilgrims and two liaison officers left for Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via Nathula in Sikkim on Friday, officials said. Governor Om Prakash Mathur flagged off the yatra at a function held at the Sino-Indian frontier in East Sikkim, they said. The function was organised by the Ministry of External Affairs. Tourism and Civil Aviation Department Additional Chief Secretary CS Rao welcomed the pilgrims on behalf of the state government and the people of [] The post First Batch Of 33 Pilgrims Leaves For Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Via Sikkims Nathula appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
