Taran and family stumble upon a lost kingdom and its forgotten capital while on a visit to Sikkim.
CBSE Board Exam 2025 Dates Announced! Check Full Schedule, Timings, and How to Download
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially released the datesheet for the Class 10 and Class 12 board exams for 2025. Heres everything students need to know about The post CBSE Board Exam 2025 Dates Announced! Check Full Schedule, Timings, and How to Download appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
BJP Criticizes Sikkim Governments Decision to Close 97 Schools, Calls it Shortsighted
The Sikkim governments controversial proposal to close and merge 97 government schools due to declining enrollment has sparked criticism from senior BJP leader DR Thapa, who labeled the move a The post BJP Criticizes Sikkim Governments Decision to Close 97 Schools, Calls it Shortsighted appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
CM Prem Singh Tamang-Golay Highlights Fisheries Role on World Fisheries Day 2024
On the occasion of World Fisheries Day 2024, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay extended his greetings and best wishes to fish farmers, fisherfolk, and stakeholders for their significant contribution The post CM Prem Singh Tamang-Golay Highlights Fisheries Role on World Fisheries Day 2024 appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
State-Level Sakewa Festival 2024 Celebrated with Festivity in Gyalshing District
The State-Level Sakewa Festival 2024, a vibrant celebration of the Rai communitys rich cultural heritage was observed with festivity at Tathang Village under Yuksam-Tashiding Constituency in Gyalshing District. Organized by The post State-Level Sakewa Festival 2024 Celebrated with Festivity in Gyalshing District appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
18-Year-Old Boy Loses Life in Tragic Accident in South Sikkim
In a tragic incident today, a government Scorpio vehicle bearing registration number SK01G3715 collided with an Ntorq scooty along the Melli-Jorthang route in South Sikkim. The scooty rider, identified as The post 18-Year-Old Boy Loses Life in Tragic Accident in South Sikkim appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Santosh Trophy: Manipur Defeat Tripura 2-0, Advance to Main Round; Mizoram thrash Sikkimenewstime.in
CM Prem Singh Tamangs Surprise Appearance Delights Fans at Governors Gold Cup
Football enthusiasts at the 40th All India Governors Gold Cup International Football Tournament 2024 were treated to an unexpected and heartwarming moment this evening as Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang The post CM Prem Singh Tamangs Surprise Appearance Delights Fans at Governors Gold Cup appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Cracking the Age-Old Riddle: Which Came First, the Chicken or the Egg?
The timeless debate of whether the chicken or the egg came first has intrigued philosophers, scientists, and curious minds for centuries. This question, blending biology and logic, continues to spark The post Cracking the Age-Old Riddle: Which Came First, the Chicken or the Egg? appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Sikkim Government Law College Students Triumph at National Quiz Competition
In a proud moment for Sikkim, Shrijan Pradhan and Jolashmit Lepcha, students of Sikkim Government Law College, secured the first position at the National Quiz Competition held during Prajatantra 2024 The post Sikkim Government Law College Students Triumph at National Quiz Competition appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Kritika Sarda: A Journey of Dedication and Discovery
Kritika Sarda, granddaughter of Laxmi Narayan Sarda and daughter of Manoj Sarda from Singtam, has achieved a remarkable milestone by completing her PhD on the topic Ethnoarchaeological Investigations on the The post Kritika Sarda: A Journey of Dedication and Discovery appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Governor Donates Rs 5 Lakh to Sikkim Football Association
The President of the Sikkim Football Association (SFA), Shri Menla Ethenpa, and Vice President Shri Arjun Roka met with the Governor of Sikkim, Shri Om Prakash Mathur, at Raj Bhavan The post Governor Donates Rs 5 Lakh to Sikkim Football Association appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Indias Advanced GSAT-20 Satellite Launched Aboard SpaceXs Falcon 9 Rocket
In a significant milestone for Indias space program, the GSAT-20 communications satellite was successfully launched into space aboard SpaceXs Falcon 9 rocket. The launch occurred at 12:01 AM on Tuesday The post Indias Advanced GSAT-20 Satellite Launched Aboard SpaceXs Falcon 9 Rocket appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
The sensational Pushpa Chettri murder case witnessed a significant development as the fourth accused, Abhishek Dorji, was presented in the Jalpaiguri court on Monday. Dorji, who had been absconding since The post Pushpa Chettri Murder Case: Fourth Accused Abhishek Dorji Presented in Jalpaiguri Court Amid Tight Security appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Remodelled BL House Inaugurated by Chief Minister PS Golay At Tibet Road, Gangtok
The Chief Minister of Sikkim, Mr Prem Singh Tamang-Golay , inaugurated the Remodelled Bhutia-Lepcha House(BL House) at Tibet Road today. The inauguration had the presence of Member of Parliament Lok The post Remodelled BL House Inaugurated by Chief Minister PS Golay At Tibet Road, Gangtok appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
India Successfully Tests Long-Range Hypersonic Missile
India has achieved a significant milestone in its defense capabilities with the successful flight trial of a long-range hypersonic missile. The test, conducted from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off The post India Successfully Tests Long-Range Hypersonic Missile appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Why Drinking Papaya Leaf Water Three Times a Week Is Beneficial
While the papaya fruit is renowned for its digestive benefits, its leaves offer an even more potent array of health-boosting nutrients. Papaya leaf water has been gaining popularity as a The post Why Drinking Papaya Leaf Water Three Times a Week Is Beneficial appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
The Guardian Boycotts X: Will No Longer Post Content
Popular newspaper The Guardian has announced that it will no longer post any content on the social media platform X. Citing an increase in negativity on the platform, The Guardian The post The Guardian Boycotts X: Will No Longer Post Content appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Father Kills 14-Year-Old Son Over Mobile Addiction in Bengaluru
A tragic incident unfolded in Bengaluru, where a man allegedly killed his 14-year-old son following a heated argument over the teenagers excessive mobile use and disinterest in studies. The father, The post Father Kills 14-Year-Old Son Over Mobile Addiction in Bengaluru appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
You Are a Waste of Time, Please Die: AI Chatbots Shocking Reply to Student Sparks Outrage Online
A recent encounter with Googles AI chatbot, Gemini, has sparked widespread alarm, raising serious questions about artificial intelligences safety and ethical oversight. A U.S. graduate student seeking homework help received The post You Are a Waste of Time, Please Die: AI Chatbots Shocking Reply to Student Sparks Outrage Online appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Mystery of Bhanu Nagar Murder Case Solved: Police Arrest Three
The highly debated Bhanu Nagar murder case, which shook the entire Darjeeling Hills and Siliguri, has finally reached its conclusion. During a press conference today, DCP East Rakesh Singh unveiled The post Mystery of Bhanu Nagar Murder Case Solved: Police Arrest Three appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
CM Awards Outstanding Journalists on National Press Day Celebration 2024
On the occasion of the National Press Day, the journalists and media professionals are honoured every year by the state Government for their exemplary work, highlighting the crucial role they The post CM Awards Outstanding Journalists on National Press Day Celebration 2024 appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
LG Unveils Stretchable Screen That Expands from 12 to 18 Inches
LG has introduced its latest stretchable display technology, a marvel that can withstand up to 10,000 stretches without damage. This unique feature sets it apart in the world of electronics. The post LG Unveils Stretchable Screen That Expands from 12 to 18 Inches appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Odisha Government Orders Probe into Alleged Assault on Sikkim Man
The Odisha government has directed Director General of Police (DGP) Y.B. Khurania to investigate allegations against a traffic personnel accused of assaulting a Sikkim resident in Gopalpur. In a notification The post Odisha Government Orders Probe into Alleged Assault on Sikkim Man appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
78th NFC for Santosh Trophy : Manipur outclass Sikkim 6-1 in opening match : 16th nov24 E-Pao.net
78th NFC for Santosh Trophy : Manipur outclass Sikkim 6-1 in opening match : 16th nov24E-Pao.net
Ranji Trophy Plate Group : Manipur restrict Sikkim to 336 in first innings, take 74-run lead at stumps on Day 3E-Pao.net
ED seizes Rs 8.8 crore in money laundering case against 'lottery king' Santiago Martin
CHENNAI: The Enforcement Directorate on Friday seized Rs 8.8 crore in cash during searches in a money laundering case against Chennai-based 'lottery king' Santiago Martin, officials said. Martin was the single biggest donor to political parties with over Rs 1,300 crore in the now-scrapped electoral bonds. The searches that were launched on Thursday continued for the second day in multiple states. About Rs 8.8 crore in cash has been seized from the corporate office of Martin on Friday. The cash is mostly in the denomination of Rs 500, the official said. The location of the office was not known. The fresh ED searches came about after the Madras High Court recently allowed the federal agency to proceed against Martin as the Tamil Nadu Police had decided to close the predicate or primary FIR against him and a few others and a lower court accepted this police plea. ED searches Santiago Martins premises in Chennai, Coimbatore At least 20 premises linked to Martin and associates in Chennai and Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, Faridabad in Haryana, Ludhiana in Punjab and Kolkata in West Bengal were being searched as part of a comprehensive action against his business empire. A clutch of police FIRs have been taken into cognisance by the ED to initiate the latest action against Martin and his business network for lottery fraud and illegal sale of lottery. The agency had searched him earlier too. The federal agency last year attached assets worth about Rs 457 crore in a case against Martin linked to an alleged loss of over Rs 900 crore to the Sikkim government by fraudulent sale of the state lottery in Kerala. Future Gaming Solutions India Pvt.Ltd. is the master distributor of Sikkim lotteries and the ED has been investigating Martin, known as 'lottery king' in Tamil Nadu, since 2019. Martin recently made news after it came to light through Election Commission data that his company (Future Gaming) was the largest purchaser of now-scrapped electoral bonds worth more than Rs 1,300 crore, between 2019 and 2024, meant for donations to political parties. The Madras High Court last month allowed the ED case against Martin and his linked people to go on as it set aside a lower court order which had accepted a closure report filed by the Chennai Police crime branch in a case related to the seizure of unaccounted Rs 7.2 crore from his Chennai home. His other companies include Martin Builders Pvt.Ltd. and Daison Land and Development Pvt. Ltd. The ED had said earlier that these firms acquired immovable properties worth Rs 19. 59 crore from the loans and advances given by Martin and his family members.
PM Virtually Inaugurates Tribal Research Institute on Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.
On the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, marking the 150th birth anniversary of Dharti Aaba Bhagwan Birsa Munda, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Tribal Research Institute (TRI) The post PM Virtually Inaugurates Tribal Research Institute on Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas. appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
ED seizes Rs 8.8 crore from corporate office of lottery king Santiago Martin
Chennai: The Enforcement Directorate on Friday seized Rs.8.8 crore in cash from the corporate office of Chennai-based 'lottery king' Santiago Martin, officials said. Martin was the single biggest donor to political parties with over Rs.1,300 crore in now-scrapped electoral bonds. The searches were carried out in multiple states as part of a money laundering investigation against the 'lottery king', officials said. The action comes after the Madras High Court recently allowed the ED to proceed against Martin as the Tamil Nadu Police had decided to close the predicate or primary FIR against him and a few others and a lower court accepted this police plea. Officials said at least 20 premises linked to Martin, his son-in-law Aadhav Arjun and associates in Chennai and Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, Faridabad in Haryana, Ludhiana in Punjab and Kolkata in West Bengal were being searched as part of a comprehensive action against his business empire. A clutch of police FIRs have been taken into cognisance by the ED to initiate the latest action against Martin and his business network for lottery fraud and illegal sale of lottery. The agency searched him earlier too. The federal agency last year attached assets worth about Rs 457 crore in a case against Martin linked to an alleged loss of over Rs 900 crore to the Sikkim government by fraudulent sale of the state lottery in Kerala. Future Gaming Solutions India Pvt. Ltd. is the master distributor of Sikkim lotteries and the ED has been investigating Martin, known as 'lottery king' in Tamil Nadu, since 2019. Martin recently made news after it came to light through Election Commission data that his company (Future Gaming) was the largest purchaser of now-scrapped electoral bonds worth more than Rs 1,300 crore, between 2019 and 2024, meant for donations to political parties. The Madras High Court last month allowed the ED case against Martin and his linked people to go on as it set aside a lower court order which had accepted a closure report filed by the Chennai Police crime branch in a case related to the seizure of unaccounted Rs 7.2 crore from his Chennai home. His other companies include Martin Builders Pvt. Ltd. and Daison Land and Development Pvt. Ltd. The ED had said earlier that these firms acquired immovable properties worth Rs 19.59 crore from the loans and advances given by Martin and his family members.
24th Convocation ceremony of SMU held : 1029 graduates and post-graduates awarded degrees
The 24th Convocation of Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) took place on Friday, November 15, 2024, at the SMU campus in Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim. A total of 1029 diplomas, graduates and The post 24th Convocation ceremony of SMU held : 1029 graduates and post-graduates awarded degrees appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
CM Prem Singh Tamang Justifies School Mergers to Enhance Education Quality
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) has reaffirmed the state governments decision to merge schools with low student enrollment into nearby institutions. Addressing a gathering during the virtual launch of The post CM Prem Singh Tamang Justifies School Mergers to Enhance Education Quality appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
High Cholesterol: A Growing Health Concern in Modern Times
High cholesterol has become an increasingly common health issue in todays world. It refers to a waxy substance that accumulates in the arteries, potentially blocking the optimal flow of blood The post High Cholesterol: A Growing Health Concern in Modern Times appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
President Murmu, VP Dhankhar and Speaker Om Birla Honor Bhagwan Birsa Munda on Janjatiya Gaurav
President Draupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla marked Janjatiya Gaurav Divas by honoring the legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, a revered tribal leader and freedom fighter, on Thursday. The two leaders celebrated by playing a traditional dhol, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of Indias tribal communities. Janjatiya Gaurav Divas celebrates the contributions and achievements of Indias tribal communities, with a special focus on Bhagwan Birsa Munda's remarkable impact. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jamui, Bihar, on Friday to pay tribute and officially commence the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. During his visit, Modi is expected to unveil a commemorative coin and postal stamp dedicated to Munda. In his commitment to advancing the welfare of tribal communities, Modi will also inaugurate a range of development projects totaling over Rs 6,640 crore. These initiatives aim to enhance infrastructure and improve the standard of living in rural and tribal regions. Among the projects, Modi will participate in the Grih Pravesh ceremony for 11,000 homes built under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN). Furthermore, Modi will launch 23 Mobile Medical Units (MMUs) under PM-JANMAN and 30 additional MMUs under the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA) to expand healthcare access in remote tribal areas. Additionally, the Prime Minister will inaugurate 300 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) to boost tribal entrepreneurship and 10 Eklavya Model Residential Schools to provide quality education to tribal students. The celebration will also feature the opening of two Tribal Freedom Fighters' Museums in Madhya Pradesh and two Tribal Research Institutes in Jammu and Kashmir and Sikkim, preserving the heritage of tribal communities. As part of enhancing regional connectivity, Modi will lay the foundation for 500 km of new roads, establish 100 Multi-Purpose Centres, and expand Eklavya Model Residential Schools. Other major initiatives include constructing 25,000 new homes under PM JANMAN and 1.16 lakh homes under DAJGUA, as well as building new hostels, mobile medical units, and Anganwadi Centers. These efforts reflect a focused approach to improve education, healthcare, and community infrastructure for Indias tribal population. PM Modi's Dual Visit: Bodoland Mahotsav in Delhi,Tribal Pride Celebrations in Odisha, Bihar Rahul Gandhi Pays Tribute to Guru Nanak and Birsa Munda, Celebrating Unity and Heritage
Odisha government asks DGP to probe assault on Sikkim man
BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha government has asked Director General of Police (DGP) YB Khurania to investigate the allegation against a traffic personnel of assaulting a native of Sikkim in Gopalpur. In a notification on Wednesday, the Home department requested the DGP to take necessary action in connection with the incident and submit an action taken report within 15 days. Khurania was also asked to consider the matter as extremely urgent. On November 3, Yogesh Sherpa (34), a differently-abled man from Sikkim, was allegedly assaulted by traffic personnel in Gopalpur. Taking cognisance of the matter, the chief ministers office (CMO) of Sikkim requested Odisha government to direct its officials, who are investigating the incident, to forward a report of the action initiated by them. The Sikkim government intervention came after Denzong Sherpa Association (DSA), a tribal organisation, wrote to Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and drew his attention towards the alleged assault on Sherpa. The DSA said Sherpa, who runs a momo stall in Balugaon, had visited Gopalpur with his friends for sightseeing when he was reportedly beaten up by the traffic personnel. He suffered serious injuries in the assault. On November 4, Berhampur police had refuted the allegation and said Sherpa in an inebriated state was travelling with a man on a two-wheeler. They avoided a routine vehicle check conducted by local traffic personnel at Sunda Chowk. After travelling some distance, Sherpa became unconscious due to excessive drinking and was admitted to MKCG medical college and hospital in Berhampur. He was later shifted to AIIMS in Bhubaneswar, said police. Following the allegation of assault, an additional SP-ranked officer was directed to conduct a detailed inquiry into the matter.
Why Starlink Hasnt Started Services in Indiaand Why It Could Be a Game-Changer
Starlink, the satellite communications (satcom) giant owned by Elon Musk, is yet to launch its services in India. The delay stems from regulatory and compliance hurdles, most notably the absence The post Why Starlink Hasnt Started Services in Indiaand Why It Could Be a Game-Changer appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
ED searches Santiago Martins premises in Chennai, Coimbatore
COIMBATORE: As part of a country-wide search at the offices and residences of lottery businessman Santiago Martin, Enforcement Directorate teams searched multiple locations in Chennai and Coimbatore on Thursday. Sources said at least 20 places linked to Martin, his son-in-law Aadhav Arjuna, who is also the deputy general secretary of VCK, and associates in Chennai and Coimbatore, Faridabad in Haryana, Ludhiana in Punjab, and Kolkata in West Bengal were being searched. In Chennai, searches were conducted at offices in Triplicane, Teynampet and Poes Garden under the security cover provided by the Central Reserve Police Force. Searches, which started at 6.30am at three locations in Coimbatore, continued till evening. According to sources, the searches were held at Martins office, his residence at Vellakinar near Thudiyalur, and Martin Homoeopathy Medical College on Mettupalayam Road in Coimbatore. The search operation comes two weeks after the Madras HC allowed ED to proceed with its probe against Martin after overturning a lower court order closing an FIR. Last year, the directorate had attached assets worth Rs 457 crore in a case against Martin linked to an alleged loss of over Rs 900 crore caused to the Sikkim government due to fraudulent sale of the state lottery in Kerala. Martins Future Gaming Solutions India Pvt. Ltd. is the master distributor of Sikkim lotteries in the country.
The International Human Rights Council, Sikkim, successfully conducted a rescue operation today, bringing aid to a 30-year-old woman suffering from a severe mental illness. For the past seven years, she The post International Human Rights Council, Sikkim, Rescues 30-Year-Old Woman Suffering from Severe Mental Illness appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
CM Prem Singh Tamang Honors Bhagwan Birsa Munda on Birth Anniversary
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang paid tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda on the occasion of his birth anniversary, celebrating the life and legacy of the legendary freedom fighter, social The post CM Prem Singh Tamang Honors Bhagwan Birsa Munda on Birth Anniversary appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Telangana and Tamil Nadu Lead the Charge for Gaming Innovation at IGDC 2024
HYDERABAD: Day Two of the 16th edition of the India Game Developer Conference (IGDC), an initiative of Game Developer Association of India (GDAI), kicked off with a strong call for collaboration between state and central ministries to propel India's emerging video gaming and interactive entertainment sector onto the global stage. Industry leaders and key government officials which included Mr. D. Sridhar Babu, Telangana IT Minister and Dr. Palanivel Thiagarajan, Tamil Nadu IT Minister, amongst other key dignitaries emphasised the strategic role of state and central cooperation in fostering talent, infrastructure, and innovation. The day began with policy round tables meets with the GDAI board members, CXOs of gaming companies, Ministers and other policymakers brainstorming on initiatives that are key for the growth of the India video gaming industry. Some of the top video gaming companies that were part of the policy round table included Nazara Technologies (only listed gaming company In India), Playsimple, Super Gaming, Nodwin Gaming, Mayhem, Lakshya Digital, EA, Winzo, YesGnome, 99 games, Leela Games amongst others. Special Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), Smt. Neerja Sekhar built upon the momentum generated on the policy discussion with Shri. Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, MIB on day 1 of IGDC by expressing enthusiasm for the establishment of a premier game development school and inclusion of gaming courses among premier tech, design and arts colleges of India. The industry will deliberate and present a detailed project report to the central government. This initiative aims to address the growing need for skilled talent in game design and development, creating a pipeline of world-class game creators. As part of the discussions, the state governments of Tamil Nadu and Telangana engaged actively with GDAI members and MIB officials and requested establishing regional Centre of Excellence (CoE) hubs in Telangana and Tamilnadu for a broader vision for the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics (AVGC) sector. These regional CoEs will then serve as local hubs for research, development, and training in game design and interactive media. The day also saw signing of MoUs between GDAI and various state governments including Rajasthan and Sikkim. In another significant development, the Incubator White Paper, prepared by the Game Developer Association of India (GDAI) after extensive industry consultation, was released jointly by the Tamil Nadu IT Minister, Dr. Palanivel Thiagarajan and the Special Secretary of MIB Neerja Sekhar. The white paper outlines a common framework for the establishment of incubators across the country, aimed at nurturing intellectual property (IP) development and supporting early-stage gaming start-ups. The IT Ministers from Telangana and Tamil Nadu highlighted the spirit of competition and collaboration between states, aiming to attract global gaming companies and local talent to their respective regions. Both states are vying to become the preferred destination for gaming studios, leveraging infrastructure, policy support, and talent development initiatives to build a thriving ecosystem. The discussions at IGDC 2024 underscored the importance of a unified approach, with the central government facilitating cross-ministry interactions, including with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Commerce. This coordinated effort aims to align policy measures, drive innovation, and position India as a leading player in the global gaming industry. The panel discussions on Day Two at IGDC 2024 included Unlocking the Future: The Governments Pivotal Role in Developing Talent for the Games Industry panelists Laiju IP Nair, HOD-COE and Skill Demand Aggregation, Dept. of Higher Edn. Govt. of Kerala, Mohit Soni, CEO-MESC, Shrikant Sinha, CEO- TASK; Bridging the Gap: How colleges are shaping and must evolve to build the game development talent of tomorrow- panelists Chaitanya Chinchlikar- VP & Business Head- Whistling Woods International, Derek Ham-Director of the ETC, Carnegie Mellon Entertainment Technology Center, Dr. Padmavati; Unlocking Growth: The Science of Analytics and User Acquisition- Panellists Jasmeet Singh, Product Director, Nukebox Studios, Pankaj Uniyal, BD-Lead, India and the US, SocialPeta, Priyanka Singh-Director Sales- APAC, Country Manager India, Digital Turbine, Shreyas Mehta- Customer Success Group Leader, AppsFlyer.
Chhattisgarh Celebrates Janjatiya Gaurav Divas with Cultural Fest
Raipur: The two-day state level programme showcasing rich cultural heritage of various tribes of the country kicked off here on Thursday to mark the birth anniversary of adivasi freedom fighter Birsa Munda, falling on Friday. Chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated the two-day grand event here. Artists from northeastern states and across the country are set to showcase their rich cultural heritage at the grand two-day event being organized to observe the Janjatiya Gaurav Divas on Friday as a mark of respect to revered tribal leader Birsa Munda, a spokesman of the Chhattisgarh government said. Prime Minister Narenda Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, scheduled to be observed across the country on Friday, virtually from Jamui in Jharkhand. The Janjatiya Gaurav Divas will be observed in all the districts in the state on Friday, Mr Sai said here. Artists from five northeastern states- Meghalaya, Mizoram, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim- have already arrived here to give their performances during the period. These northeastern artists are scheduled to celebrate the diverse colours of their culture by presenting folk dances such as Wangla-Rungla, Ret-Kinong, Geh PadamA Na-Nyi E, and Solkia. A senior state government officer said 21 tribal dance troupes from 20 states are scheduled to perform on the occasion.
97 govt schools in Sikkim to be shut due to shortage of students
The Sikkim government announced the closure of 97 schools with low enrollment. Education Minister Raju Basnet stated that students will be merged into nearby schools to improve resource allocation and educational quality. This decision aligns with the government's commitment to prioritize education.
On the basis of the charge sheets filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation, the ED had initiated a money laundering probe against Martin and his company, Future Gaming Solutions (P) Limited (presently Future Gaming and Hotel Services (P) Limited and formerly Martin Lottery Agencies Limited).
Lottery scam: ED raids multiple places
New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday conducted pan-India searches at multiple locations in West Bengal, Sikkim, and Tamil Nadu in connection with financial fraud of lottery and the corruption case involving money laundering through lottery tickets to certain influential people. The raids have been underway since Thursday morning in at the premises of suspects in West Bengal's Kolkata, Sikkim, and Tamil Nadu's Chennai and Coimbatore. The agency is probing a lottery scam case registered in 2012 against lottery baron Santiago Martin and others, in which the Sikkim government was allegedly cheated. The ED had earlier attached assets worth Rs 277.59 crore in the case. They included a large number of immovable properties in Tamil Nadu. On the basis of the charge sheets filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation, the ED had initiated a money laundering probe against Martin and his company, Future Gaming Solutions (P) Limited (presently Future Gaming and Hotel Services (P) Limited and formerly Martin Lottery Agencies Limited). The agency had then alleged that Martin and others conspired to make wrongful gains. They entered into an agreement with State government officials, in contravention of the Lottery Regulations Act, under which the company could avoid remitting the face value of lottery tickets sold in Kerala to the State exchequer as sale proceeds. An illegal gain of over Rs 910.30 crore was made by inflating the prize winning tickets' claims from April 1, 2009, to August 31, 2010, as alleged. In another case, the Enforcement Directorate in 2022 had also attached properties worth Rs 409.92 crore in the case against Future Gaming and Hotel Services Private Limited and its various sub-distributors and area distributors for West Bengal. The ED probe is based on the cases registered by the Kolkata Police under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Lotteries (Regulation) Act. The attached assets are in the form of bank balance and mutual fund holdings.
ED launches fresh raids against 'lottery king' Santiago Martin
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is conducting searches across India in connection with a lottery scam and money laundering case. The raids target lottery baron Santiago Martin and others for allegedly cheating the Sikkim government and laundering money through lottery tickets.
France Ambassador visits Himalayan Zoological Park in Sikkim
GANGTOK, Nov 13: The Ambassador of France to India, Thierry Mathou visited the Himalayan Zoological Park in Sikkims Bulbuley area on Wednesday. Secretary cum PCCF of Forest and Environment department Pradeep Kumar and other officials welcomed Mathou and the French delegation and told them about ongoing projects and initiatives such as My Child from the []
polling-begins-in-wayanad-for-priyanka-gandhis-electoral-debut
Voting got underway in Wayanad Lok Sabha Constituency on Wednesday morning, a political event that will mark the electoral debut of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. The Wayanad seat was vacated by Rahul Gandhi after he decided to keep the Rae Bareli parliamentary constituency. Priyanka will contest against LDF's Sathyan Mokeri, NDA's Navya Haridas and 13 others in the constituency. The UDF expects the Byelections to be a cakewalk for her and the party as the seat is a Congress stronghold. The only focus will be to widen the victory margin Rahul Gandhi, achieved in the last two elections. In the 2024 Parliament elections, Rahul's victory margin was over 3.5 lakh votes while in 2019, it was over 4.3 lakh votes. Priyanka took to X on Wednesday morning to urge voters to head to the polling booths. My dearest sisters and brothers, please vote today, its your day, a day for you to make your choice and exercise the greatest power our constitution has given you. Lets build a better future together, she posted. Bypolls Besides Wayanad, byelections will also be held in 31 assembly seats spread across 10 states. Most of these seats fell vacant after the sitting MLA quit the seats to contest in the Parliament elections. Voting will be held in seven seats in Rajasthan, six in West Bengal, five in Assam, four seats in Bihar, three in Karnataka, two seats in Madhya Pradesh, and one seat each in Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Kerala and Meghalaya. Votes will be counted on November 23. Though polling was also scheduled for two seats in Sikkim -- Soreng-Chakung and Namchi-Singhithang, Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) nominees Aditya Golay and Satish Chandra Rai have already been declared unopposed after their rivals withdrew from the race. In Rajasthan, bypolls will be held in Jhunjhunu, Dausa, Deoli-Uniara, Khinvsar, Chaurasi, Salumbar and Ramgarh. In West Bengal, elections are being held in six seats, of which five were won by TMC in 2021 Assembly elections. In Assam, five seats going to bypolls - Dholai, Behali, Samaguri, Bongaigaon and Sidli while in Bihar, bypolls will be held in the Ramgarh, Tarari, Imamganj and Belaganj seats. In Karnataka, JD(S) leader Nikhil Kumaraswamy is contesting from Channapatna, a seat vacated by his father and Union minister H D Kumaraswamy after being elected to Lok Sabha. The BJP has fielded former chief minister Basavaraj Bommai's son, Bharath Bommai, from Shiggaon. He will face Congress candidate Yasir Ahmed Khan Pathan. Bypolls will also be held in Sandur in the state. Voting will also be held in Budhni and Vijaypur assembly seats in Madhya Pradesh. Though voting was initially scheduled on Wednesday for nine seats in Uttar Pradesh and four in Punjab, the Election Commission rescheduled it to November 20. Jharkhand As many as 43 seats of the total 81 Assembly seats will head to the elections on Wednesday, which will also see former chief minister Champai Soren and ex-MP Geeta Kora seek a mandate. Also read: Jharkhand elections phase 1: BJP, INDIA bloc brace for high-stakes clash While the JMM-led INDIA bloc is seeking to retain power, the BJP hopes to wrest power from the Hemant Soren-led coalition. The saffron party has highlighted the Centre's multiple schemes and other local issues, including infiltration and corruption by the government, to take on the JMM. The BJP is also focusing on 'Roti, Beti, Maati' and the INDIA bloc trying to capitalise on suppression of the voice of a tribal CM. Meanwhile, the Soren government has promised a slew of welfare measures, including 33 per cent reservation for women in government jobs, a domicile policy based on 1932 as the cut-off year for land records, implementation of Sarna Dharma Code, and hiking reservations for the OBC, SC and ST communities to 27 per cent, 12 per cent, and 28 per cent respectively, to lure voters.
3.5 magnitude earthquake jolts Sikkim
GANGTOK, Nov 12: A mild earthquake measuring 3.5 magnitude jolted some parts of Sikkim on Tuesday afternoon, officials said. There was no report of any damage to property or loss of life, they said. EQ of M: 3.5, On: 12/11/2024 14:00:36 IST, Lat: 27.29 N, Long: 88.46 E, Depth: 5 Km, Location: Gangtok, Sikkim, the []
Centre maps 100 glacial lakes, 47 'glof facing' dams
Following a devastating glacial lake outburst flood in Sikkim last year, India is intensifying efforts to map and address vulnerabilities in hydropower projects. Assessments reveal 47 projects are highly susceptible to such floods, with Himachal Pradesh alone accounting for 20.
NEW DELHI: Disaster risk reduction is not just about responding to disasters but also about building resilience, said PK Mishra, the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, on Tuesday quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modis words. Mishra reiterated the PMs emphasis that the best way to deal with disasters is to prevent them, reminding us that proactive measures are essential in safeguarding our communities. We must work together across borders and disciplines to create a safer world, Mishra said while highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing global challenges like GLOF (Glacial Lake Outburst Flood) risks. He also noted that mitigating risks associated with glacial lakes is to ensure a safer future for communities. Complimenting the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Department of Water Resources for organising the 4th Workshop of the Committee on Disaster Risk Reduction (CoDRR), Mishra asked for international perspectives and experiences, especially Indias experiences, gaps and challenges in mitigating the risks and related aspects. He said that the discussion on Sikkim glacial lake outburst flood disaster has brought to focus the enormity of the challenge. Indeed, the South Lhonak GLOF was a wake-up call for all of us and required urgent measures for effective strategies to address risks associated with glacial lakes, he added. On international cooperation, Mishra emphasised that Indias commitment extends beyond national borders, hence the vital aspect of engaging with GLOF experts from countries such as Bhutan, Nepal, Peru, Switzerland and Tajikistan. He reiterated that such collaboration is vital to enhancing our understanding of response strategies. Mishra underlined the key contributions of experts from the country and abroad, who have enriched our understanding of the critical issues. Structuring the deliberations, Mishra mentioned the challenges including the confusion over the quantum of the problem defined in terms of the number of glacial lakes and the risk factors associated with them. He said that earlier attempts to mitigate risks from the South Lhonak lake were not successful and plans were primarily restricted to scientific hazard assessments and geospatial monitoring of lake size increases, while there was diffused responsibility among states and central agencies, causing confusion regarding roles.
French ambassador meets Sikkim chief secretary, seeks to deepen cooperation
GANGTOK, Nov 11 : French ambassador Thierry Mathou met Sikkims Chief Secretary VB Pathak in Gangtok on Monday. He was accompanied by his spouse Cecile Mathou and officials of the French consulate in Kolkata to the meeting at the Tashiling Secretariat. During the meeting, the two sides discussed ways to deepen cooperation. Mathou noted the historical ties between France and Sikkim, notably through Alexandra David-Neel who spent nearly three years in Sikkim and authored over 30 books, including Magic and [] The post French ambassador meets Sikkim chief secretary, seeks to deepen cooperation appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Campaign ends for first phase of Jharkhand polls and bypolls to 31 Assembly and one Lok Sabha seats
Among the 33 Assembly seats originally announced to go to byelection in this phase, polling would be held in only 31 as in Sikkim, the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) has won two seats uncontested.
Sikkim High Court addresses PIL concerning bad road conditions
The Sikkim High Court addressed a pressing public interest litigation (PIL) concerning the deplorable condition of roads within Sikkim, particularly those under the jurisdiction of the Public Works Department (PWD) authorities of West Bengal. On October 29, 2024, Chief Justice Biswanath Somadder and Judge Meenakshi Madan Rai ordered the concerned PWD authorities to submit a [] The post Sikkim High Court addresses PIL concerning bad road conditions appeared first on India Legal .
Sikkim Manipal University, TISS Invite Applications For PhD Programmes, Check Details
Sikkim Manipal University PhD Admission 2024: The deadline for application submission is November 16. Applicants can make corrections to their forms between November 17 and November 19.
Sikkim Jobs : Sikkim Manipal University Recruitment 2024
Applications are invited for recruitment of various paramedical positions or jobs in Sikkim Manipal University. Sikkim Manipal University is inviting applications from eligible candidates for recruitment to the posts or jobs of Trainee / Staff Nurse in Central Referral Hospital. Sikkim Manipal University, State Private University, UGC, NMC AICTE and INC approved came into being [] The post Sikkim Jobs : Sikkim Manipal University Recruitment 2024 appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Sikkim CM mourns loss of two women in Surat Fire
GANGTOK, Nov 7: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang expressed sorrow over the fire incident in Gujarats Surat which claimed the lives of two women from the northeastern state on Wednesday evening. In an official statement on Thursday, Tamang extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of the states support during []
Surat spa fire kills Sikkim woman on first day at work, along with friend - The Indian Express
Surat spa fire kills Sikkim woman on first day at work, along with friend The Indian Express
KOCHI: TNIE meets a bunch of people who, consumed by wanderlust, have taken to travel in offbeat ways from a woman who has been exploring India in her lorry to a stunt rider who pedalled from Kanyakumari to Ladakh on a single-wheel bicycle Exploring the unknown Arunima I P has loved travelling from childhood. Now 25, she has visited 30 countries and has no intention of stopping until she has explored the entire world. Better known by her Instagram handle, @backpacker_arunima, she has been travelling for the past four years. Each day, I feel like a new person. Each day brings a new experience visiting new places, meeting new people, tasting new cuisine, she says. Over the past one-and-half years, she has visited 13 countries in Africa alone. Once, I got to learn about black magic in an African village, she laughs. I stayed with a family for one week and earned their trust. They treated me like family and shared their stories. Ethiopia and Angola are her favourites. In India, its Meghalaya. Arunima says she loves connecting with strangers while on solo trips. I travel by road as much as possible, hitching rides and staying with locals, she adds. I always try to make it budget-friendly, as social media promotions are my only source of income. One unforgettable experience, she recalls, was walking through an obscure rural area in Angola, about 1,500km from the capital, Luanda. Vehicles were rare, and there was barely any network. I was wandering aimlessly when two villagers on a bike came my way. They invited me to their home, Arunima says. Their hut was no bigger than an average Kerala kitchen. Yet they gave me space and shared their food with me. I will never forget their hospitality. Its people like them who inspire me to keep travelling. Where to next? I will soon be going to Indonesia. And then, I want to cover South America. Niharika Pramod Railway Man on road trip If you want quality time with yourself, travel. That has been Suresh Josephs dogma. I was awakened to this fact by my mother who was passionate about travel, says the 66-year-old, also known as the Railway Man for his long association with the Indian Railways. Notably, Suresh had played a huge role in setting up the transshipment terminal at Vallarpadam in Kochi, and is now helping DP World set up a container terminal at Kandla Port in Gujarat. Though he lists The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari as one of his favourite reads in his blog The Railway Man Who Sold His Maruti, Suresh still maintains a demanding job and a lovely family. But they dont curb his wanderlust. We give time to everyone but never to our own self. I do that during travels, says Suresh, who has undertaken several car expeditions, most within India and some abroad. Suresh holds 18 national and international driving records, including being the only person who has driven solo through the four longest highways in the world the Highway 1 in Australia, the Trans-Siberian Highway (the worlds second longest), the Trans-Canada Highway (the third longest), and the Indian Golden Quadrilateral, the fourth longest. His passion was sparked by his grandfather, in whose well-maintained Ambassador he travelled for long. Another memory that he says fuels his car journeys is a family Christmas road-trip from Chennai to Thiruvananthapuram. Almost all his journeys have been on four-wheelers. He has driven from Kochi to London and Singapore, on the trans-Himalayan route, and on a Trans-Siberian expedition from Chennai to St Petersburg. When travelling through island countries, I hire a vehicle after reaching there, he says. I have so far done 59 countries, 45 of which I have driven in, he says. He has plans to tick 41 more countries before turning 70 a goal he calls 100@70. Next on the list, he says, is Iceland. Aparna Nair Pedalling against peddlers In what is likely the first ride of its kind, Saneed P P, from Kannur, rode a bicycle without a front wheel the entire length of the countryfrom Kanyakumari to the highest motorable road in the world, the Umling La pass in Ladakh. Nearly 5,000km. A wheelie, Saneed smiles. Thats what todays kids call it lifting the front wheel off the ground and riding on the rear wheel. In my bike, the front wheel was removed, he adds. I did it to spread awareness against the great threat to society today: drug abuse. The peculiarity of my journey turns eyes. Not just towards me, but also to the message. Indeed, throughout his journey, Saneed has been commended for his efforts and even featured in news programmes. However, the highlight was when the Border Roads Organisation invited him as a guest for a ceremony at Wagah. I got a chance to show my skills in front of a crowd there. Along with the soldiers! It is the biggest honour I could have, and I will cherish that memory, Saneed says. But the journey was not without its difficulties. Stiff neck and back pain were constant companions. Also, one time in Hanle, a gust of wind knocked me down and I had to seek medical attention, he recalls. Helping alleviate these pains were the wonders that the 23-year-old stunt rider saw on the road. Among them were the Taj Mahal, the Golden Temple, Harihar Fort, and the Konkan stretch. During chilly nights in Ladakh, Saneed spotted Starlink satellites and a shard of the Milky Way. What a sight it was! The journey, which began on December 15 last year, came to a close when Saneed unfurled the Indian flag he had been carrying at the Umling La pass milestone. On the way back, he says, The adventure is not over yet. Indeed, the road is long, and there are many more wonders to see. You can follow Saneeds adventures on Insta at @saneed_dbz. Ronnie Kuriakose Where i lay my head is home Some journeys can revive you, filling you with new purpose and excitement. Thats what happened to Chithran R from Kannur when, at 24, he set off hiking on November 1, 2022. Two years later, he is still on the road, having explored every corner of India and parts of Nepal. His only fuel is his love for travel. Mine is an ordinary family that could barely afford trips even within Kerala. But I always had this big dream of travelling, he says. To make it happen, I sold my bike, the only asset I had. I packed just one bag: some clothes, a small camera, a pair of shoes, trekking gear, a small gas stove, a solar panel and battery, and a tent all adding up to about 50kg. My plan was simple: walk wherever I could, hitchhike when possible, no hotel stays, and cook my own food. Chithran says there were days when he walked over 30km straight, sometimes even more. For the past six months, he has been travelling through the remote villages of Nepal, camping in his tent and relying on the hospitality of local villagers. When no other shelter is available, he would spend nights in bus stands, temples, or gurdwaras. He hikes mostly through hilly regions, remote villages, and forests. Once, in a Himachal village named Keylong, I got stuck for nearly a month due to severe cold. All roads were closed. I had to live in my tent, relying on a small gas stove for warmth, Chithran recalls. He dreams of walking through European countries and experiencing new cultures. Alongside this, he seeks to share the sights through his YouTube/Insta channels Travelogue by Chithran. Life itself is a journey. Isnt it better to experience it fully and with joy? I have met so many people and learned so much from each of them. Thats what makes life truly worth living, he says. I often get calls from elderly people who say, Son, we spent all our good years working for money and family. Watching you travel, we feel a deep longing. Now, even with the money, we cant live a life as fulfilling as yours. Such words keep me walking. Parvana K B India tour in a lorry Jelaja Ratheesh has always had a deep-seated desire to travel, especially to explore Indias diverse landscapes. So far, Jelaja has travelled to 22 states and six Union Territories. What sets her journeys apart is that shes done it in a lorry. For the past two years, Jelaja has documented her adventures on her YouTube channel, Puthettu Travel Vlog, named after her familys lorry business. My husband, Ratheesh, is a lorry driver who transports goods across several states. His travel anecdotes spurred my desire to hit the road. He once quipped that I should learn to drive a lorry. That was the beginning, laughs Jelaja, who hails from Ettumanoor, Kottayam. Armed with a heavy vehicle licence, she started her journey in 2022, driving to her dream destination, Kashmir, alongside her husband. Since then, her journeys have taken her across destinations such as Meghalaya, Punjab, Rajasthan, Nepal, and Bhutan. Now, at 42, Jelaja has just Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, and Manipur left on her Incredible India list. For Jelaja, what matters most are the people she meets along the way. I have experienced genuine kindness. Strangers have welcomed us into their homes, treating us like family, especially when we are stranded, she says. Jelaja adds that for the past 19 years, she was a homemaker whose life centred around family. I never did anything for myself, she says. To be honest, I started my life when I turned 40. Her grit has inspired her 20-year-old daughter Devika Ratheesh to also get a heavy vehicle licence and join the lorry trips. Mahima Anna Jacob
Sikkim's Lifeline Now Under National Highway Body, Not Bengal Government
BJP MP from Darjeeling Raju Bista has announced that National Highway 10 has been handed over to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL). Earlier this road was maintained by the PWD West Bengal.
Sikkim forms committee for inclusion of 12 communities in ST list
GANGTOK, Nov 5: The Sikkim government has set up a 12-member committee to conduct a study and make recommendations to the Centre for the inclusion of 12 communities in the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs). Anthropological Survey of India Director BV Sharma will be the chairman of the committee, while JNUs senior professor Mahendra P []
Andhra Pradesh: DSP, Army Major Daughters Make Parents Proud
Anantapur: It was a proud moment for the teacher-parents as their daughters achieved prestigious heights in the countrys uniform services. The couple was accompanied by their daughter Pratibha - who is working in the Indian Army as a Major in Kolkata while attending their elder daughter Pradeepthi's passing out parade as Deputy Superintend of Police (DSP) at the AP Police Academy centre in Anantapur. The parents Appa Rao and Sugunaveni have had joyful moments witnessing their younger daughter, an Army Major, congratulating her DSP sister. This middle-class family could achieve this goal after years of struggle and hard work. Appa Rao and Sugunaveni are government teachers and natives of Amudalavalasa. While Appa Rao is retired, Sugunaveni is still in service. The couple has two daughters Pradeepthi and Pratibha and both are engineering graduates. Though initially, mother Sugunaveni wanted her two daughters to be settled as software engineers, she had to accept the goals of her daughters. Pratibha, after completing her graduation in mechanical engineering in 2014, set a goal to join the Indian Army. She attempted SSC thrice and succeeded in her third attempt. She served two-and-a-half years in crucial sectors in Sikkim and Jammu and Kashmir and one-and-a-half years in South Sudan on a United Nations mission. Presently, she is working as a Major in Kolkata. I am proud of my sister Pradeepthi. She has achieved the goal after a series of struggles, Pratibha appreciated and recalled the routine discouragement from relatives and friends for middle-class young girls while choosing their careers, especially in security services. Appa Rao and Sugunaveni were happy as their daughters achieved a rare feat by joining the leadership positions in the nations uniform services.
Proud Moment for Family as Both Daughters Serve the Nation in Uniform
Anantapur: It was a proud moment for the parents of Major Pratibha and newly appointed Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Pradeepthi, as both daughters have achieved prestigious positions in uniformed services. Major Pratibha, an Army officer currently posted in Kolkata, traveled to Anantapur to attend her elder sister Pradeepthis passing-out parade at the AP Police Academy. The family, especially their father Appa Rao and mother Sugunaveni, were overjoyed as Major Pratibha congratulated her sister on this significant accomplishment. Appa Rao, a retired teacher from Amadalavalasa, and his wife Sugunaveni, who is also a teacher, are the proud parents of Pradeepthi and Pratibha, both of whom are engineering graduates. Initially, Sugunaveni hoped her daughters would pursue careers as software engineers, but she eventually supported their goals to serve in uniform. After completing her degree in mechanical engineering in 2014, Pratibha set her sights on joining the Indian Army. She cleared the Short Service Commission on her third attempt. Her service includes postings in Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, and an assignment in South Sudan under a United Nations mission. She is currently serving as a Major in Kolkata. I am incredibly proud of my sister, Pradeepthi, for achieving her goal after years of dedication, said Pratibha. She also highlighted the challenges often faced by middle-class families when young women choose careers in security services, despite societal pressures. Appa Rao and Sugunaveni are delighted that both their daughters have established careers in service of the nation through the uniformed forces.
Two sisters, two uniforms: A familys pride
Anantapur : A proud moment for a family of teachers, as their two daughters reached the pinnacle of their careers in uniform services. Major Pratibha, serving in the Indian Army, recently travelled from Kolkata to attend her elder sister DSP Pradeepthis passing-out parade at the AP Police Academy in Anantapur. Appa Rao, a retired teacher, and his wife Sugunaveni, a serving teacher, hail from Amidalavalasa. Despite initially aspiring for their daughters to pursue careers in software engineering, they supported their ambitions to join the armed forces. Pratibha, a mechanical engineer, achieved her goal of joining the Indian Army after three attempts at the SSC exam. She has served in critical locations like Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, and South Sudan under a UN mission. I am incredibly proud of my sister Pradeepthis achievement, said Pratibha, acknowledging the challenges faced by middle-class girls who choose careers in security services. Appa Rao and Sugunaveni are overjoyed that both their daughters are serving the nation in uniform. Their story is an inspiration to many.
Around 98 pc schools in India have separate toilet facilities for girl students: Centre to SC
New Delhi: The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that more than 97.5 per cent schools in the country, including government, government-aided and private ones, have provided separate toilets facilities for girl students. It has filed an affidavit in a pending PIL moved by Congress leader and social activist Jaya Thakur seeking directions to the Centre and states to provide free sanitary pads to girl students of Classes 6 to 12 and ensure separate female toilet facilities in all government, government-aided and residential schools. The Centre has told the top court that states and Union territories, such as Delhi, Goa and Puducherry, have achieved 100 per cent targets and complied with the earlier orders of the court. It has also informed the court that 16 lakh toilets for boys and 17.5 lakh toilets for girls have been constructed in more than 10 lakh government schools and 2.5 lakh toilets for boys and 2.9 lakh toilets for girls have been made available in government-aided schools. The Centre has pointed out that in West Bengal, separate toilet facilities have been provided for girl students in 99.9 per cent schools and in Uttar Pradesh, 98.8 per cent schools have separate facilities for girls. The figure is 99.7 per cent in Tamil Nadu, 99.6 per cent in Kerala, 99.5 per cent in Sikkim, Gujarat, Punjab, 99.6 per cent in Chhattisgarh, 98.7 per cent in Karnataka, 98.6 per cent in Madhya Pradesh, 97.8 per cent in Maharashtra, 98 per cent in Rajasthan, 98.5 per cent in Bihar and 96.1 per cent in Odisha, it has informed the court. The northeastern states lag behind the national average of 98 per cent, the Centre has said, adding that even Jammu and Kashmir has provided separate toilet facilities for girls in 89.2 per cent schools. On July 8, the Centre informed the top court that a national policy on the distribution of menstrual hygiene products to adolescent schoolgoing girls is at an advanced stage of formulation. The public interest litigation (PIL) plea moved by Thakur has highlighted the difficulties faced by adolescent girls from poor backgrounds in schools. The Centre had earlier said it was in the process of collating all necessary material to form a national policy on the distribution of menstrual hygiene products to schoolgoing girls in terms of the court's orders dated April 10, 2023 and November 6, 2023. The top court had directed the Centre to lay down a national model for building toilets commensurate with the number of girl students in all government-aided and residential schools across the country. While emphasising a uniform procedure, it had also asked the Centre about the policy it has formulated for the distribution of sanitary napkins to female school students nationally. On April 10, the court appointed the secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) as the nodal officer to coordinate with the states and Union territories, and collect relevant data for formulating a national policy. It noted that the MoHFW, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Jal Shakti have schemes on menstrual-hygiene management. The court also ordered all the states to submit their menstrual-hygiene management strategies and plans that are being executed with the help of funds provided by the Centre or through their own resources to the Mission Steering Group of the National Health Mission within four weeks. The court said the states shall also indicate to the Mission Steering Group of the National Health Mission the appropriate ratio of female toilets for residential and non-residential schools in their respective territories. It asked all the states and Union territories to also indicate the steps that have been taken to provide low-cost sanitary pads and vending machines in schools and their appropriate disposal. The plea has said girls aged between 11 and 18 years from poor backgrounds face serious difficulties in receiving education, a right guaranteed under Article 21A of the Constitution. These are adolescent females who are not equipped with and are also not educated by their parents about menstruation and menstrual hygiene. The deprived economic status and illiteracy lead to a prevalence of unhygienic and unhealthy practices, which have serious health consequences, increase obstinacy and lead to eventual dropping out from schools, the plea has said.
People across India revel in Diwali; Delhi defies firecracker ban
NEW DELHI: Colourful lights decked up buildings and diyas (earthen lamps) dotted houses as people across the country celebrated Diwali with great enthusiasm on Thursday. In the national capital, Delhiites defied the firecracker ban as the city's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category with an AQI of 327 at 9 pm. Keeping up his tradition of celebrating the festival with soldiers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Sir Creek near the Indo-Pak border in Gujarat's Kutch district and offered sweets to jawans. Modi said India cannot compromise on even an inch of land on its borders, adding the people believe in the strength of its armed forces for defending the country. In the past, attempts were made to turn this region into a battlefield. The enemy has set its eyes on this region for a long time. But we are not worried as you are guarding the nation. Our enemy also knows it well, he asserted. People of India feel their country is safe because of you; when the world sees you, it sees India's strength, when enemies see you, they see the end of their sinister plans, the prime minister said, addressing personnel of the Border Security Force, Army, Navy and Air Force. Modi also called on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar separately and greeted them on Diwali. One of the most popular Hindu festivals, Diwali is associated with the day Lord Ram is believed to have returned to Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman after defeating demon king Ravana during his 14 years in exile. The festival is seen as a celebration of the victory of good over evil. Dressed in traditional attire, people greeted each other, exchanged sweets and gifts, and visited temples. Meanwhile, troops of India and China exchanged sweets at several border points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), including at locations in eastern Ladakh, on the occasion of Diwali. The exchange took place at all the five Border Personnel Meeting (BPM) points along the LAC -- Bum La and Wacha/Kibithu in Arunachal Pradesh, Chushul-Moldo and Daulat Beg Oldi in Ladakh and Nathu La in Sikkim -- among several other locations, sources said. 'Diyas' being lit during the Diwali festival celebration, at Lal Chowk in Srinagar, Thursday, Oct 31, 2024. The celebrations across the country were largely incident free. However, in Uttar Pradesh, six people, including four of a family, were killed when a tempo they were travelling in was hit by a tractor in the Mujaria area of Budaun, police said. The victims, who worked as vegetable vendors in Noida, were returning home to celebrate Diwali. In Andhra Pradesh, a man died after the firecrackers he was carrying on a two-wheeler exploded in Eluru town, police said. In UP, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath celebrated Diwali with the forest dwellers of Vantangiya village in Gorakhpur. He said people dividing society along caste, regional, and linguistic lines have the DNA of Ravan and Duryodhan, and warned that anyone who attempts to disrupt peace or get involved in crime against women would be dealt with strictly. During his visit to the area, the chief minister inaugurated 74 development projects valued at Rs 185 crore across various gram panchayats. In the national capital, the sky lit up as people celebrated Diwali defying a ban on firecrackers. Areas including Lajpat Nagar, Kalkaji, Chhatarpur, Jaunapur, East of Kailash, Saket, Rohini, Dwarka, Punjabi Bagh, Vikas Puri, Dilshad Garden, Burari and many other neighbourhoods of east and west Delhi saw firecrackers being burst. With the 24-hour AQI recorded at 328 at 4 pm, the city experienced its worst air quality on Diwali in the last three years. In West Bengal, Kali Puja and Diwali were celebrated with gaiety and fervour, with decorated pandals creating a festive spirit across the state. With only green fireworks allowed by the administration as per the earlier orders of a court, police and state pollution control board officials kept vigil to prevent flouting of the rule. Border Security Force (BSF) personnel light candles to celebrate the Diwali festival near the Indo-Bangladesh Border, at Atila, Tapan, in Dakshin Dinajpur district of West Bengal, Thursday, Oct 31, 2024. Long queues were seen at the famed Tarapith, Dakshineswar, Kalighat, Thanthania, and other Kali temples across the state. In Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited the Lansdowne cantonment to celebrate Diwali with army soldiers, saying he felt fortunate to be with them on the auspicious occasion. Paying tribute to the martyrs by offering a wreath at the war memorial there, Dhami said, We can light diyas at our homes on Diwali only because our brave soldiers live away from their families to protect the country's borders. Dhami also distributed sweets and gifts among the soldiers, widows of martyrs and their children. In Rajasthan, the festival of light was celebrated with great enthusiasm. Markets were vibrant and bustling until late Wednesday night with people flocking to buy new clothes, sweets, firecrackers and other festive items. CM Bhajanlal Sharma and other leaders extended Diwali greetings on X. Meanwhile, more than 20 lakh devotees gathered at Chitrakoot on the border of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh on the occasion of Diwali, an official said. According to mythology, Lord Ram spent the better part of his 14-year exile at Chitrakoot, located on the banks of the Mandakini river. Devotees took a dip in the river and performed a `deep-daan' ceremony. Fireworks light the sky at the illuminated Akshardham temple on the occasion of the Diwali Festival, in Jaipur, Thursday, Oct 31, 2024. In Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi wished people on the occasion of Diwali and emphasised his government's commitment to take the state to new heights. My heartiest congratulations to all the brothers and sisters of Odisha on the occasion of Diwali, the festival of light and joy, Majhi said in a video message on his X handle. In the coastal state of Goa, the celebrations took off after the burning of Narakasur demon effigies in the early hours. As per traditions, the effigies were taken around before they were burnt to mark the victory of good over evil.
Ruling SKM wins both Assembly seats uncontested in Sikkim bypolls
In a significant political development, Sikkim Democratic Front candidates withdrew from Soreng-Chakung and Namchi-Singhithang assembly constituencies, allowing Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) nominees to win unopposed. CAP's disqualified candidates spurred allegations against SKM for undemocratic practices and manipulation of the electoral process.
Northeast Assembly bypolls: Family politics to the fore
Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamangs son Aditya Golay wins unopposed from Soreng Chakung; NPP fields Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangmas wife Mehtab from Gambegre
2 Candidates Withdraw Nomination, Sikkim Assembly To Remain Opposition-Less
The Sikkim Assembly will continue to remain opposition-less with candidates from the Sikkim Democratic Front withdrawing their nominations for bypolls for two Assembly seats a day after the nominations of leaders from another party were rejected.
Sikkim by-polls: Ruling SKM wins both seats uncontested
GUWAHATI: The candidates of the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) won the by-elections to two seats uncontested on Tuesday after the candidates of the Opposition Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) opted out of the race. The winners were Aditya Golay Tamang, the son of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, and Satish Chandra Rai. Aditya was pitted against SDFs Prem Bahadur Bhandari in a straight contest in the Soreng-Chakung seat after the nomination of Citizen Action Party candidate Pobin Hang Subba was rejected by the Election Commission on Monday. Bhandari withdrew his nomination on Tuesday. Similarly, Satish was facing a contest from SDFs Daniel Rai in the Namchi-Singhithang seat. Rai withdrew from the contest on Tuesday. According to election officials, the SKM candidates will be declared winners at the end of the last date for withdrawal of nominations which is Wednesday. A jubilant Aditya, who is a former MLA, told the media it was Bhandaris individual decision. I think he wants to come and join our programmes for the development of the Soreng-Chakung constituency, Aditya said. On the rejection of Subbas nomination, he said, It happened on technical grounds. The RO (returning officer) is the right person to comment on this. The CM had won from Soreng-Chakung and Rhenock seats in this years Assembly elections which were held simultaneously with Lok Sabha polls. Later, he vacated the Soreng-Chakung seat, necessitating the by-poll. His wife, Krishna Kumari Rai, had also won the Assembly polls from the Namchi-Singhithang seat but she resigned later. This necessitated the by-poll to the seat. Aditya said the SKM workers were confident that they might not have to face the elections in Soreng-Chakung but I was more on the side of contesting the polls. In the general elections, we secured 10,480 votes for our party president Mr Prem Singh Golay sir in the Soreng-Chakung seat. We were quite confident of breaking that record. Unfortunately, we havent been able to do it, Aditya said. He added they would have to engage with the youth, try to understand their problems and work accordingly.
Sikkim by-polls: Citizen Action Party Sikkim candidate disqualified in Soreng
The Citizen Action Party Sikkim's candidates were disqualified from the November 13 by-election due to deficiencies in required proposers and incomplete affidavit submission. CAP condemned the disqualification, calling it a conspiracy by the ruling SKM. The contest is now between SKM and Sikkim Democratic Front candidates, whose nominations were accepted by the Returning Officers.
Deepotsav 2024: A Grand Celebration with Over 1,200 Artists in Ayodhya on October 28-30
The Yogi government is gearing up for a grandDeepotsav this year, marking the first celebration after the consecration of Lord Shri Ram's idol which was held on January 22, 2024. This will be the eighth consecutive Deepotsav since 2017, uniting the spirit of India in Ayodhya with captivating Ramlila performances and a vibrant display of art and culture from both national and state talents. From October 28 to 30, a grand procession featuring 250 artists will showcase Uttar Pradeshs rich heritage through folk dances. In total, around 240 artists from various states will join the festivities in Ayodhya, alongside 800 additional performers who will engage audiences with folk dances and songs at multiple venues. Over the three-day event, more than 1,200 artists from India and abroad will immerse attendees in a spirit of devotion. International troupes from Malaysia, Myanmar, Indonesia, Cambodia, Thailand, and Nepal will perform Ramlila, adding to the rich cultural tapestry of this historic Deepotsav. The vibrant procession will include traditional dance performances such as Faruaahi, Bahurupiya, Awadhi folk, Bamrasiya, Tharu, Deewari, Dhobiya, Rai, Dhedhiya, Mayur, and other tribal folk dances, highlighting Indias diverse folk culture. Artists representing 15 statesincluding Sikkim, Assam, Chandigarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Rajasthanwill showcase their unique traditions and folk dances, including Kashmirs Rauf, Uttarakhands Chhapeli, Haryanas Ghoomar, Madhya Pradeshs Baredi, Punjabs Bhangra/Gatka, Maharashtras Dholtasha, Gujarats Dandiya-Garba, Himachal Pradeshs Shirmour Nati, and Chhattisgarhs Gandi dance. Under the guidance of the Yogi government, Ayodhya will host spiritual and cultural programs at various locations during the three-day celebration. Approximately 800 artists will perform folk dances and songs at venues such as Guptar Ghat, Badi Devkali, Ram Ghat, Birla Dharamshala, Bharatkund, Tulsi Udyan, Bhajan Sandhya Sthal, Naka, Hanumangarhi, Bus Adda Bypass, and Naya Ghat in Shri Ayodhya Dham. Highlights include Preeti Singh from Agra performing at Ram Katha Park, Maitrey Pahadi presenting a dance drama based on the Hanuman Chalisa, and Ranjana Nev from Saharanpur staging a dance performance inspired by the Ramayana. Ayodhya Set to Light Over 2.5 Million Lamps for Grand Deepotsav Celebration Air India Express Plane Makes Emergency Landing in Ayodhya Scaring Bomb Threat
Over 77 per cent of Indias children lack WHO-suggested diversity in diet, study finds
NEW DELHI, Oct 23: About 77 per cent of children in India aged 6-23 months lack diversity in diet as suggested by the WHO, with the countrys central region showing the highest prevalence of minimum dietary failure, a study has found. The states of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh reported the highest levels of inadequate diversity in childrens diets all above 80 per cent while Sikkim and Meghalaya were the only two to report [] The post Over 77 per cent of Indias children lack WHO-suggested diversity in diet, study finds appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Gadkari reviews progress of key national highway projects in Assam, Sikkim, Mizoram
NEW DELHI, Oct 22 : Road Transport and Highways minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday held a comprehensive review meeting in Delhi to assess the progress of key National Highway projects in Assam, Sikkim, and Mizoram. According to an official statement, the meeting was attended by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, union ministers of state for Road Transport Ajay Tamta and Harsh Malhotra, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Sikkim R&B Minister Nar Bahadur Dahal, Mizoram Chief [] The post Gadkari reviews progress of key national highway projects in Assam, Sikkim, Mizoram appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
New Himalayan snake species named after Academy Award winner Leonardo DiCaprio,it will becalled...
The newly described snake species, 'Anguiculus dicaprioi' is distributed from central Nepal to Chamba district in Himachal Pradesh, whereas 'Anguiculus rappii' is distributed in Sikkim, Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh.
SKMs Aditya Golay, Satish Chandra Rai file nomination papers for bypolls
GANGTOK, Oct 21: Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) candidates Aditya Golay and Satish Chandra Rai on Monday filed their nomination papers for the bypolls to the Soreng-Chakung and Namchi-Singhithang assembly constituencies, respectively. Golay submitted nomination papers at the office of the Returning Officer (Soreng) Dhiraj Subedi, while Rai did so at the office of the Returning []
Doctors Leave Pair Of Scissors In Woman's Abdomen, It Is Found 12 Years Later
Having undergone surgery to remove her appendix, a woman from Sikkim continued to suffer for over a decade more and several doctors failed to diagnose why. When the diagnosis was finally revealed earlier this month, it shocked her and her family.
Modi to meet NDA CMs in Chandigarh
NEW DELHI: PM Narendra Modi has called a conclave of all NDA chief ministers and their deputies after the swearing-in of Nayab Singh Saini-led government in Haryana on Thursday. The conclave will take place in Chandigarh. The BJP on Wednesday announced that all the 20 CMs and their deputies from NDA-ruled states would participate in the half-day conclave. Among the attendees will be 13 CMs and 16 Deputy CMs of BJP-ruled states and also CMs and deputy CMs of NDA-ruled states, including Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, Nagaland, and Meghalaya. BJP president J P Nadda, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, along with Chandranabu Naidu will also be present. The agenda for the conclave is to address several crucial national issues, including the observance of Sanvidhan Ka Amrut Mahotsav. The meet will also formulate policy directions of the NDA.
PM Modi to lead historic conclave of NDA CMs, Dy CMs after swearing-in of Haryana CM
NEW DELHI: In a first for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) the swearing-in ceremony of Nayab Singh Saini as the Chief Minister of Haryana on Thursday would be followed by a conclave of NDAs all CMs and their deputies with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance marking a notable moment for the NDA. Following the ceremony, Chandigarh will host a historic conclave featuring Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers from NDA-ruled states. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday here announced that nearly all 20 Chief Ministers and their deputies from NDA states will participate in this half-day meeting. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the entire event, lending his leadership to the proceedings. The conclave will kick off immediately after Saini's swearing-in ceremony. Among the attendees are 13 Chief Ministers and 16 Deputy Chief Ministers of BJP ruled states and other CMs and deputy CMs of NDA rules states including Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, Nagaland, and Meghalaya, will attend this. Prominent figures in attendance will include BJP President J.P. Nadda, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Home Minister Amit Shah, along with Andhra CM Chandra Babu Naidu and Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio, who will lead discussions. The agenda for the conclave is structured to address critical national development issues. Key topics will include the observance of Sanvidhan Ka Amrut Mahotsav, celebrating the Constitution's significance, and marking the 50th anniversary of attempts to undermine democracy in India. This meeting aims to reinforce the NDA's collaborative governance model and strategise on future policy directions. As the NDA looks to strengthen its unity and effectiveness across states, this conclave serves as a platform for dialogue and coordination, showcasing the coalition's commitment to addressing pressing national challenges while celebrating democratic values. The involvement of high-profile leaders underscores the importance of this event in shaping the political landscape ahead of upcoming elections.
EC Announces Bypolls to Wayanad, Nanded LS Seats; 48 Assembly Constituencies
NEW DELHI: The Election Commission on Tuesday announced bypolls to the Wayanad and Nanded Lok Sabha seats as well as 48 assembly constituencies.Bypoll to the Basirhat Lok Sabha seat in West Bengal and the Milkipur assembly seat in Uttar Pradesh were not announced as election petitions are pending in the respective high courts against the candidates who had won the seats earlier. Bypoll to the Wayanad parliamentary seat and 47 assembly seats will be held on November 13 along with phase one elections for the Jharkhand Assembly. Bypoll to the Nanded Lok Sabha seat and the Kedarnath assembly constituency will be held on November 20 along with Maharashtra assembly polls and phase two of Jharkhand elections. The Wayanad Lok Sabha seat was vacated by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as he opted to keep the Rae Bareli seat. The Nanded Lok Sabha seat fell vacant after MP Vasant Chavan died recently. Similarly, TMC MP from the Basirhat Lok Sabha seat Haji Sheikh Nurul Islam passed away a few days ago. Rahul's sibling Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will contest from Wayanad. The 48 assembly constituencies and two Lok Sabha seats where bypolls are being held are spread across 15 states - Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya, Punjab, West Bengal, Rajasthan and Sikkim.
Rajnath Singh inaugurates 75 Border Infra-Projects Worth Rs.2,236 Crore
In a major advancement for Indias border infrastructure, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated 75 projects under the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), amounting to Rs.2,236 crore. This initiative encompasses 22 roads, 51 bridges, and two additional works across 11 states and union territories, enhancing Indias defense capabilities and promoting socio-economic growth in border areas. The inauguration took place virtually from the Trishakti Corps Headquarters in Sukna, West Bengal, with a key focus on the Kupup-Sherathang Road in Sikkim. This new road connects Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg and the Zuluk axis, significantly improving connectivity in the strategically important region. In his address, Rajnath Singh commended the BRO for its commitment to completing these projects in challenging terrains and difficult weather conditions. He reaffirmed the governments dedication to bolstering the nations defense and border infrastructure, emphasizing that these projects align with Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. With these 75 new projects, the BRO has reached a remarkable total of 111 infrastructure initiatives in 2024, at an overall cost of Rs.3,751 crore. This includes the cutting-edge Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh, which was inaugurated by the Prime Minister earlier this year. In the previous year, the BRO dedicated 125 projects worth Rs.3,611 crore. Singh highlighted the governments commitment to border development, noting a significant change in strategy since 2014. Previously cautious about developing border regions due to potential threats, the current approach prioritizes infrastructure enhancement, particularly in the North-East. He expressed optimism that the increased allocation of Rs.6,500 crore for the BRO in the Union Budget 2024-25 would further expedite strategic infrastructure development and stimulate socio-economic progress. He assured that India is on the path to becoming one of the safest and strongest nations globally, supported by these advancements in border infrastructure. The event was attended by important military and government officials, including Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, alongside Chief Ministers and Governors from various states, who participated both in person and virtually. India Achieves Milestone with Successful Test of Indigenous VSHORADS Missiles SPARSH Portal Linked to 30 Lakh Defence Pensioners: Rajnath Singh
Rajnath performs 'Shastra Puja' at Army's 33 Corps HQ on Dussehra
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday performed Shastra Puja (worship of weapons) on the occasion of Vijayadashami at the headquarters of an Army corps in West Bengal. Vijayadashami marks the end of Navratra and is celebrated as the festival of Dussehra. On the occasion of Vijayadashami in India, there has been a long-standing tradition of weapon worship. Today, I performed 'Shastra Puja' at the 33 Corps headquarters in Sukna, Darjeeling, Singh posted on X in Hindi. Singh also shared photographs. Army chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi, senior officers and jawans were also present on the occasion. Singh was scheduled to address the Army Commanders Conference in Gangtok on Friday in person. But due to bad weather in the Sikkim capital, he addressed them through video conference from the Army location in Sukna.
Rajnath Singh Performs Shastra Puja, Celebrates Vijayadashami With Armed Forces In Gangtok
New Delhi, Oct 12: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh performed Shastra Puja and celebrated the festival of Vijayadashami with the armed forces personnel in Gangtok, Sikkim on Saturday. He applied tilak to the armed forces personnel who greeted them, saying Jai Hind. The Union Minister also posed for a picture with the armed forces personnel. Earlier in the day, he extended Vijayadashami greetings to the nation. Later in the day, he is scheduled to e-inaugurate 75 infrastructure projects worth Rs 2,236 [] The post Rajnath Singh Performs Shastra Puja, Celebrates Vijayadashami With Armed Forces In Gangtok appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurates BRO's 75 border infrastructure projects
NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday inaugurated and dedicated the Nation 75 Infrastructure Projects constructed by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) at a cost of Rs 2236 Crore. These Projects have been constructed in 11 border States/UTs of the country including Andaman & Nicobar Islands. In a ceremony organised by the Border Roads Organisation in Sikkim, the Defence Minister virtually inaugurated 22 Roads, 51 Bridges and 02 other miscellaneous projects. Out of these Projects ,19 have been constructed in UT of J&K, 11 in UT of Ladakh, 18 in Arunachal Pradesh, 09 in Uttrakhand, 06 in Sikkim, 05 in Himachal Pradesh, 02 each in West Bengal and Rajasthan and 01 each in Nagaland, Mizoram and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Notably, BRO completed the construction of these critical strategic projects in a record time frame and many of these Projects have been constructed in a single working season using state-of-the-art technology. The working season is limited due to snowfall and the closing of the roads. These Infrastructure Projects have been constructed under challenging weather conditions at places with most inhospitable terrain. Highlights of the ceremony were the inauguration of Kupup Sherathang Road in Sikkim and the e-inauguration of 74 other projects. Kupup- Sherathang Road in Sikkim which serves as a crucial link between Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg and Zuluk axis. It provides an alternate route that plays a pivotal role for the Army troops enabling the movement of Personnel and machinery. BRO's surge in road and bridge construction in the last years has led to the completion of many critical and strategic projects which has bolstered our defence preparedness vis a vis that of our adversaries, BRO added. With this, in 2024, BRO has dedicated a record 111 Infrastructure projects to the Nation. In 2023, a total of 125 infrastructure projects were dedicated to the Nation. It said, BRO was raised in 1960 and is involved in creating and maintaining strategic roads and associated defence and military infrastructure. The BRO said, With this, the connectivity in the remote border areas has increased manifold and will help in improving the defence preparedness in these strategic areas and will also bring socio-economic development in the region. This year, 36 Infrastructure Projects of the BRO costing Rs 1508 crore have already been dedicated to the Nation which also includes state of the art Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 9 Mar 2024 making a total of 111 infrastructure projects at a total cost of Rs 3751 crore. Two tunnels in Arunachal Pradesh, Sela and Nechiphu Tunnel have also been constructed in the last one year connecting the farthest and most remote villages of the country. Last year, 125 BRO infrastructure projects were dedicated to the Nation for Rs 3611 crore. Speaking on the occasion, Rajnath Singh lauded BRO's commitment towards establishing connectivity in far-flung areas by ensuring the timely completion of these roads & bridges. Rajnath mentioned that in the last five years BRO had completed 450 infrastructure projects with a cost of more than Rs. 16000 crore and this year, in 2024 with these 75 infra projects BRO has dedicated a record 111 infrastructure projects to the Nation. He appreciated the feat of construction of these 75 infrastructure projects at such an expeditious pace during this year. Talking in particular about Sikkim, Rajnath Singh said that the Government is focused on its development and in last five years BRO has completed 10 Bridges and six roads in Sikkim. During the devastating cloudburst in October last year, BRO emerged as the first responder, swiftly and effectively restoring connectivity in the region. Talking about Ladakh Rajnath said that he work of world's highest tunnel Shinkula Tunnel has already commenced which will provide a seamless, uninterrupted passage to Leh throughout the year and BRO has made significant progress on Indo-China Border Roads and other critical roads. Work on various strategic roads in Ladakh is in an advanced stage of completion. There is tension along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Also, a standoff prevails along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh with heavy troop deployment from both sides. Rajnath lauded BRO's effort of always being at the forefront in constructing more than 40% of Roads in high-altitude areas with hostile terrain, harsh weather, low oxygen levels and extreme cold. Praising BRO, Rajnath mentioned the successful completion of North-South Road in Andaman & Nicobar Island, providing critical connectivity to Indira Point, the southernmost tip of India.
Rajnath inaugurates memorial in Sikkim dedicated to 22 soldiers who died in flash floods
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurates 'Prerna Sthal' memorial in Sikkim, honoring 22 soldiers who perished in last year's flash floods. The memorial symbolizes bravery and sacrifice and aims to inspire a sense of national pride and unity among citizens.
Indian Army one of most trusted organisations in country: Rajnath Singh
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday praised the Indian Army as one of the most trusted and inspiring organisations in the country, highlighting its significant role in safeguarding borders, combating terrorism and assisting civil administration in times of need. Addressing the Army Commanders Conference, held virtually from an army location in Sukma (West Bengal) due to inclement weather that prevented his helicopter from reaching Sikkim, Singh expressed admiration for every soldier's contributions and honoured those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation. The Indian Army plays a significant role in guarding our borders and fighting terrorism apart from providing assistance to the civil administration in every need of hour, he said while addressing the Army Commanders Conference. He commended the Army leadership for advancing the nation's 'Defence and Security' vision, as outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Singh noted that he has attended the Army ..
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh To Attend Army Commanders' Conference In Gangtok
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Gangtok on Friday, the first day of his two-day visit to Sikkim, to address the Army Commanders' Conference 2024.
Singh also reaffirmed the Centre's commitment to the development of Sikkim, highlighting that the BRO had built 10 bridges and six roads in the northeastern state over the past five years.
First phase of Army Commanders' Conference to be in Sikkim forward area
The two-phase Army Commanders' Conference during which the army will review current operational preparedness and deliberate on critical strategies is set to begin in Sikkim on Thursday. The second ACC this year is being organised in a hybrid mode, with the first phase planned on October 10-11 in a forward location at Gangtok, the defence ministry said in a statement on Wednesday. Top army commanders will brainstorm conceptual issues, and review and assess the overall security situation during the key conference. As the nation faces numerous regional security challenges, the upcoming Army Commanders' Conference scheduled to commence in Sikkim tomorrow, assumes significance, it said. Conducting the conference of senior commanders at a forward location underlines the Indian Army's focus on ground realities, the ministry said. The commanders' conclave in a forward area in Sikkim, which is close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC), comes amid the lingering border row in eastern .
Sikkim model taxi ops not feasible: Tourism Ministry
NEW DELHI, Oct 9: The much talked about Sikkim model of taxi system which allows only the state registered cabs to ferry incoming tourists has drawn criticism from the Centre, neighbouring West Bengal government and the state government itself over issues like overcharging, inconvenience to tourists and others. The Union Tourism Ministry has expressed concern []
Around 97% youth can read, write & solve math: Report
Nearly 97% of young Indians aged 15-24 are literate and numerate, says the CAMS report by MOSPI. Rural areas report 96.7%, while urban areas show 98% literacy rates. Sikkim and Mizoram hit 100% literacy. Most youth can use mobile devices and the internet. Financial inclusion and access to improved water and sanitation are also highlighted.
1st phase of Army Commanders Conference to be held in forward area in Sikkim
New Delhi: The two-phase Army Commanders' Conference during which the army will review current operational preparedness and deliberate on critical strategies is set to begin in Sikkim on Thursday. The second ACC this year is being organised in a hybrid mode, with the first phase planned on October 10-11 in a forward location at Gangtok, [] The post 1st phase of Army Commanders Conference to be held in forward area in Sikkim appeared first on Northlines .