sikkim News

Defence Minister dedicates 125 BRO projects to nation

These projects built at a cost of 5,000 crore and spread across the Union Territories of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, and seven States including Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal and Mizoram consisted of 28 roads, 93 bridges and four miscellaneous works

Army operationalises 3D concrete printing tech for quick construction of bunkers, sentry posts

GANGTOK, Dec 7: The Indian Army, in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad, has operationalised on-site 3D concrete printing technology for quick construction of bunkers, sentry posts and protective structures in forward areas of Sikkim, a Defence statement said. The capability already proven in other operational areas earlier has been effectively employed by the Trishakti Corps in the Himalayan state, it said. The indigenous robotic 3D concrete printer, equipped with a robotic arm, circular mixer, piston pump and generator, is [] The post Army operationalises 3D concrete printing tech for quick construction of bunkers, sentry posts appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Over 32K living co-infected with HIV and TB in 2024, admits Centre

NEW DELHI: Over 32,000 people living with HIV (PLHIV) were co-infected with tuberculosis (TB) in 2024. This dual burden continues to be a significant public health challenge in India, according to the latest government report. The report also said that a total of six states, including Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, recorded the highest number of people co-infected with HIV and TB in 2024-25. The dual burden of HIV and TB continues to be a major public health challenge in India, as co-infection substantially increases the risk of illness and death if not detected and treated promptly, said the India HIV Estimation 2025 report. Maharashtra (14%), Andhra Pradesh (10%), Karnataka (10%), Uttar Pradesh (10%), Tamil Nadu (7%) and Gujarat (7%) together accounted for 58% of the HIVTB co-infected PLHIV reported in FY 2024-25, forming the bulk of the 11 states that contributed 80% of the national caseload. Several smaller states/UTs such as Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Dadar & Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Puducherry, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands contributed less than 1% of total cases, said the report, which was released by Union Health Minister JP Nadda on December 1, observed as World AIDS Day. The report said that TB, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), remains one of the most significant opportunistic infections (OIs) among PLHIV in India. From 2021-22 to 2024-25, the proportion of PLHIV screened for TB remained consistently high at 95% or more, reflecting strong adherence to TB screening and effective implementation of testing services. However, TB diagnosis among PLHIV from 2021-22 to 2024-25 showed a gradual decline, from 7.2% in 2021-22 and 2022-23 to 5.8% in 2023-24, and further to 4.9% in 2024-25. This can be attributed to enhanced prevention efforts and treatment coverage leading to a decrease in transmission, said the report. Active TB may affect the lungs (pulmonary TB) or spread beyond the lungs to involve the lymph nodes, pleura, abdomen, central nervous system, bones, joints, or skin (extrapulmonary TB). Recognising the impact of the dual epidemic, the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) has implemented several strategic measures to address HIV-TB co-infection across the country effectively. A cornerstone of this effort is the integration of HIV and TB services, aimed at ensuring comprehensive, patient-centred care, the report added. Under this model, all PLHIV attending ART Centres are screened for TB symptoms. At the same time, all TB patients are tested for HIV to enable early diagnosis and timely care.

Family Demands Justice After Fatal Dominos Hit-and-Run in Gangtok

Gangtok, Dec 6 : A tragic hit-and-run accident involving a Dominos delivery rider and Jigmee The post Family Demands Justice After Fatal Dominos Hit-and-Run in Gangtok appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Rajnath Singh to unveil 125 BRO infrastructure projects in key areas

NEW DELHI: In a major push to strengthen Indias border infrastructure, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will inaugurate and dedicate 125 strategically important projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) on Sunday from the Shyok Tunnel in Ladakh. Sources said these vital projects that the minister will unveil cover 28 roads, 93 bridges, and four miscellaneous strategic facilities across seven states and two Union Territories, including Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Mizoram. Showcasing Indias engineering and technological advancements, the event will highlight the 920-metre Cut and Cover Shyok Tunnel, which ensures uninterrupted movement of troops and civilians through landslide- and avalanche-prone terrain. The 3D-printed Himank Air Dispatch (HAD) Unit Complex in Chandigarh also highlights the countrys innovation in modern defence infrastructure. These projects mark a major milestone in enhancing operational preparedness, troop mobility, and socio-economic development in some of the most remote and challenging regions of the country, officials said. BROs achievements demonstrate its capability to operate across high-altitude, snowbound, desert, flood-prone, and dense forest terrains, while improving last-mile connectivity to remote villages, forward military posts, and strategic locations. Notable road projects include the Sela-Chabrela-BJG and Shungester-Sulula Roads in Arunachal Pradesh, the KalepGaigong Road in Sikkim, and connectivity works in Mizoram along the LawngtlaiDiltlangParva axis. Bridges such as Lumla I & II, Shungetsar I & II, Rabam Chu, and Tuichanglui enhance logistics and access across critical border stretches. Officials pointed out these projects are some of the toughest terrains and it is uphill task. Raised in 1960, BRO has an authorized strength of 41,600 personnel, including 2,426 officers and 39,174 subordinates, and continues to be the preferred agency for MHA, MEA, and MoRTH for projects in challenging terrains. Over the past two years, BRO has dedicated 356 infrastructure projects, with its budget increased from Rs 6,500 crore to Rs 7,146 crore in recognition of its strategic contribution. Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, Director General of BRO, lauded the dedication and professionalism of officers, supervisors, and labourers. Upholding its motto, Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam Everything is achievable through hard work, BRO continues to play a pivotal role in national security, strategic connectivity, and socio-economic development, linking Indias remotest and most strategically vital regions to mainstream.

MP: International Wildlife Trafficker Yangchen Lachungpa Arrested In Sikkim

She was produced in MP court, given 5-day remand to states anti-poaching wing

Sikkim Fooled by a Digital Tiger Again: When AIs Cub Sent Humans Running

Gangtok, Dec 6 : Just when people thought they could finally spot a real tiger The post Sikkim Fooled by a Digital Tiger Again: When AIs Cub Sent Humans Running appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Transport Department to Begin Permit Submission Process from January 5, 2026

Gangtok, Dec 6 : The Transport Department, Government of Sikkim, has officially announced that the The post Transport Department to Begin Permit Submission Process from January 5, 2026 appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

The Aluminum Age: How Googles AI-Powered Aluminium OS Is About to Reshape the PC Landscape

New Delhi, Dec 6 : For years, Google has juggled three main operating systems: Android The post The Aluminum Age: How Googles AI-Powered Aluminium OS Is About to Reshape the PC Landscape appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's name included in World Book of Records for taking oath for 10th time

PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to get global recognition as World Book of Records (WBR), London has listed his name for being the only individual to be sworn-in as chief minister of any state in independent India for 10th time. WBR congratulated Nitish for taking the oath of office as chief minister of Bihar for a record 10th time. In its congratulatory letter, WBR said that from 1947 to 2025, Nitish is the only individual to take the oath ten times. The milestone has set a benchmark in the countrys democratic system, reflecting rare continuity of leadership. It signifies his commitment, visionary leadership and unwavering trust of people of Bihar. Leading a state for ten times is not a remarkable personal achievement but also a moment of honour for entire country, WBR letter said. The letter pointed out that Nitishs consistent efforts in governance, development, social welfare and maintaining administrative stability has inspired millions of people across the country and will continue to motivate both present and future generations. As a mark of rare achievement, Nitishs name has been included in the list of WBR. The organisation will provide an official certificate acknowledging his record-setting milestone. On December 20, Nitish took the oath of office as CM along with 26 ministers. Reacting to WBRs initiative to list Nitishs name in its global list, Janata Dal (United) MLC and spokesperson Neeraj Kumar said that it was a moment of pride not only for Bihar but for the entire nation. This is recognition to Nitishs relentless efforts and vision for Bihars development. It will inspire workers of JD(U) who have been the backbone of the partys achievements, Neeraj said, adding that Nitish became the longest serving CM of Bihar as well. The list of other longest serving chief ministers includes Pawan Kumar Chamling (Sikkim), who served over 24 years, 5 months, and 14 days, followed by Naveen Patnaik (Odisha) with over 24 years and Gegong Apang (Arunachal Pradesh) for 22 years. Jyoti Basu (West Bengal) severed for 23 years. M Karunanidhi (Tamil Nadu) had the most terms and longest days across several stints. Lal Thanhawla (Mizoram) and Virbhandra Singh (Himachal Pradesh) served for nearly 22 and 21 years, respectively. WBR, London is a leading international institution dedicated to identifying, certifying and documenting extraordinary world records and outstanding achievements. The organisation honours eminent personalities, institutions, and historically significant sites worldwide for their contributions, impact and cultural heritage value.

Fresh Turmoil at SPSC: CAP Sikkim Demands Resignations Amid New Recruitment Scandal

Gangtok, Dec 5 : The recruitment processes overseen by the Sikkim Public Service Commission (SPSC) The post Fresh Turmoil at SPSC: CAP Sikkim Demands Resignations Amid New Recruitment Scandal appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

International tiger trafficker held by M.P. tiger strike force from Sikkim

Yangchen Lachungpa (44), wanted under an INTERPOL Red Notice and involved in alleged trafficking of tiger body parts, was held from Lachung in North Sikkim on December 2, based on intelligence inputs and coordinated ground action

After 10-yr chase, wildlife sleuths nab the ghost

Interpol-wanted wildlife trafficker Yangchen Lachungpa, a decade-long fugitive, was apprehended in a remote Sikkim village. Her arrest, following a complex operation, marks a significant breakthrough in combating international wildlife smuggling. Authorities believe her network linked Indian tiger reserves to Nepal, Tibet, and China, dealing in various endangered species parts.

Interpol Notice And Movie-Style Arrest Of Wildlife Trafficker In Sikkim

In a dramatic covert operation stretching across the icy Himalayan border, the Madhya Pradesh State Tiger Strike Force (STSF), in coordination with the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), has arrested an international wildlife trafficker.

Cloudflare Faces Fresh Outage, Disrupts Canva and Other Major Apps Worldwide

Gangtok, Dec 5 : Just weeks after a large-scale service disruption, global internet infrastructure provider The post Cloudflare Faces Fresh Outage, Disrupts Canva and Other Major Apps Worldwide appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

A Promise Kept: CM Golay Takes Full Responsibility for Childs Life-Saving Lung Transplant

New Delhi, Dec 4 : In a powerful display of compassionate governance, Sikkims Chief Minister, The post A Promise Kept: CM Golay Takes Full Responsibility for Childs Life-Saving Lung Transplant appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

International Wildlife Criminal Wanted Under INTERPOL Red Notice Held In Sikkim

Key member of an organised trafficking network with links to Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan and operations across several Indian cities arrested

Centre Reaffirms Sikkims Corporate Exception: Companies Act, 2013, Not Applicable in the State

New Delhi, Dec 3 : The unique legal status of Sikkim in corporate affairs was The post Centre Reaffirms Sikkims Corporate Exception: Companies Act, 2013, Not Applicable in the State appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Turn ChatGPT into Your Cash Cow: 5 Easy Ways to Monetize the AI Tool

In todays digital landscape, the quest for online income is universal. Enter ChatGPT, the revolutionary The post Turn ChatGPT into Your Cash Cow: 5 Easy Ways to Monetize the AI Tool appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Royal Bengal Tiger Cub Sighted Near Gangtok, Forest Teams Launch Search Operation

Gangtok, Dec 4: A Royal Bengal tiger cub was spotted on Tuesday afternoon in the The post Royal Bengal Tiger Cub Sighted Near Gangtok, Forest Teams Launch Search Operation appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Nisha Thapa Makes Sikkim Proud as Its First Nurse in a German Cancer Hospital

Gangtok, Dec 3 : In a moment of immense pride for Sikkim, 27-year-old Nisha Thapa The post Nisha Thapa Makes Sikkim Proud as Its First Nurse in a German Cancer Hospital appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Punjab records highest groundwater extraction in India, says CGWB report

CHANDIGARH: Groundwater extraction in the country is the highest in Punjab, followed by Rajasthan and Haryana, according to the latest National Compilation of Dynamic Ground Water Resources of India, 2025 report of the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB). The findings show that 25 per cent of the 6,762 total blocks in India have been categorised as over-exploited, critical or semi-critical, a situation concentrated in nine states, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Puducherry. As per the report, groundwater extraction in Punjab stands at 156.36 per cent, the highest in the country, followed by Rajasthan at 147.11 per cent and Haryana at 136.75 per cent, all significantly above the national average of 60.63 per cent. At the national level, annual groundwater extraction has seen a marginal decline, from 27.66 billion cubic metres (BCM) in 2023 to 26.27 BCM last year. The total annual ground water recharge of Punjab has been assessed as 18.6 bcm and annual extractable ground water resource as 16.8 bcm. Out of total 153 assessment units including three urban areas taken for study, 111 assessment units (72.55 per cent) have been categorized as Over-exploited, 10 blocks (6.54 per cent) as Critical, 15 blocks (9.80 per cent) as Semi Critical and 17 blocks (11.11 per cent) as Safe, the report said. Similarly, out of 50175.27 square kilometers recharge worthy area of the state, 34294.3 sq km (68.35 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 4353.15 sq. km (8.68 per cent) under Critical, 4478.11 sq km (8.92 per cent) under Semi-critical and 7049.71sq km (14.05 per cent) under Safe category, reads the report. For Rajasthan, the report states,Out of the 302 assessment units (blocks and urban areas), 213 units (70.53 per cent) have been categorized as Over Exploited, 23 units (7.62 per cent) as Critical, 27 units (8.94 per cent) as Semi-Critical, 36 units (11.92 per cent) blocks as Safe and 3 units (0.99 per cent) as Saline. Similarly, out of 317010.74 sq km recharge worthy area of the state, 222266.46 sq km (70.11 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 19404.23 sq. km (6.12 per cent) under Critical, 22535.05 sq km (7.11 per cent) under Semi-critical, 43869.11 sq km (13.84 per cent) under Safe and 8935.89 sq km (2.82 per cent) area under Saline categories of assessment units. In Haryana, the situation is similar. While in Haryana, out of total 143 assessment units (blocks/Urban), 91 units (63.64 per cent) have been categorized as Overexploited, 6 units (4.20 per cent) as Critical, 15 units (10.49 per cent) as Semi Critical and 31 units (21.68 per cent) as Safe categories of assessment units. Similarly, out of 43,205.81 sq. km recharge worthy area of the State, 26,828.05 sq. km (62.09 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 1,170.46 sq. km (2.71 per cent) under Critical, 4,253.89 sq. km (9.85 per cent) under Semicritical, 10,953.42 sq. km (25.35 per cent) under Safe categories of assessment units, it added. The report assesses the total annual groundwater extraction of the entire country for 2025 at 247.22 bcm. Agriculture remains the largest consumer, accounting for 87 per cent, or 215.10 bcm, followed by 11 per cent for domestic use (27.89 bcm) and 2 per cent for industrial use (4.23 bcm). In the present assessment, total annual groundwater recharge has been pegged at 448.52 bcm, while the annual extractable groundwater resource stands at 407.75 bcm. The average stage of groundwater extraction at the national level is 60.63 per cent. Out of 6,762 blocks in the country, 730 units (10.80 per cent) are categorised as over-exploited, and 201 blocks (2.97 per cent) are classified as critical where extraction ranges from 90 to 100 per cent. Another 758 blocks (11.21 per cent) fall under the semi-critical category, while 4,946 units (73.14 per cent) are considered safe, with extraction below 70 per cent. Additionally, 127 blocks (1.88 per cent) have been listed as saline due to brackish or saline groundwater in phreatic aquifers. The report highlights that the percentage of over-exploited, critical and semi-critical blocks exceeding 25 per cent of total units is found only in nine states, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Puducherry. It attributes the situation to region-specific factors, Over-exploitation of ground water resources could be due to various region-specific reasons. The assessment units located in the north-western part of the country (particularly in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh) have plenty of replenishable ground water resources but because of the over extraction beyond the annual ground water recharge, many of these units have become Over-exploited. Overexploited units are also common in the western part of the country, particularly in Rajasthan and Gujarat where the prevailing arid climate results in low recharge of ground water and hence stress on these sources, the report stated. It further adds, In peninsular India, over-exploited units are wide spread in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana which could be attributed mainly to the low storage and transmission capacities of aquifers of the hard rock terrains, which results in reduced availability of the resource. The report also notes that in Arunachal Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Kerala, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Andaman and Nicobar, Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Lakshadweep, domestic groundwater extraction exceeds 40 per cent. Groundwater extraction stands between 90 and 100 per cent in Delhi, and between 70 and 90 per cent in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. In most other states and Union Territories, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Sikkim, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Lakshadweep, extraction levels are around 70 per cent. The report concludes that compared to the Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment of 2024, the total annual groundwater recharge has marginally increased from 446.9 bcm to 448.52 bcm.

Dr. Sweata Gurung Earns PhD for Groundbreaking Research on Women Entrepreneurs in Sikkims Hospitality Sector

Gangtok, Dec 02 : Dr. Sweata Gurung has achieved a major academic milestone by successfully The post Dr. Sweata Gurung Earns PhD for Groundbreaking Research on Women Entrepreneurs in Sikkims Hospitality Sector appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Drug Bust in Singtam: Police Seize Nearly 3,000 Illegal Capsules Under Mission Nasha Mukht

Singtam, Dec 2: In a continued crackdown under Mission Nasha Mukht Singtam, Singtam Sikkim Police The post Drug Bust in Singtam: Police Seize Nearly 3,000 Illegal Capsules Under Mission Nasha Mukht appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Six Detained in Soreng as Police Intensify Crackdown on Drug Abuse

Soreng, Dec 2 : Six individuals have been detained in Soreng (Sikkim) as the district The post Six Detained in Soreng as Police Intensify Crackdown on Drug Abuse appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

New Seismic Map Places Sikkim in Highest Earthquake Risk Zone VI

Gangtok, Dec 1 : Indias updated seismic zonation map under the revised Earthquake Design Code The post New Seismic Map Places Sikkim in Highest Earthquake Risk Zone VI appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

MAHE Online's 2nd Convocation: Honouring and Celebrating its Graduates

As a part of its 33 rd Convocation, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), one of India’s premier institutes, successfully conducted the 2 nd Convocation for its online learners. The ceremony, held on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at the MAHE Bengaluru campus, marked a significant milestone in MAHE’s commitment to continuous learning and access to quality, world-class education.   2nd Convocation of MAHE Online Education was held at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Bengaluru campus on November 30, 2025   Recognizing the achievements of 1380 graduates from across 24 states and 4 Union Territories in India and 21 countries across the globe, MAHE Online reaffirmed its vision of empowering learners beyond geographical boundaries. Graduates from various postgraduate programs such as MBA, MSc Data Science, MSc Business Analytics, and PGCP, who successfully completed their degrees through MAHE’s comprehensive online learning platform were honoured and celebrated. The diverse cohort of learners included working professionals, entrepreneurs, homemakers, and students from both rural and urban areas who leveraged digital education to advance their careers, pursue their academic aspirations, and strengthen their commitment to lifelong learning.   Visionary Voices Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE declared the convocation open, followed by a warm welcome address by Dr Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor (Management, Law, Humanities and Social Sciences), MAHE, where he congratulated all the graduates for their remarkable achievements recognizing their efforts.   “ Dear graduates, it is a great honour for me to stand before you today. Our Directorate of Online Education (DOE) has more than 13,400 students from 55 countries, literally representing all the continents. Our DOE also collaborates with leading corporations to deliver customised online certifications, upskilling and reskilling micro-credential programs empowering working professionals to thrive in a rapidly evolving world ,” said and Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor, MAHE , presenting a comprehensive overview of MAHE and its long-held legacy.   In her convocation address, Ms. Paroma Chatterjee, CEO, Revolut India - Chief Guest , reflected the learnings of her own journey reminding graduates that, “ Building a legacy requires continuous learning. Deep cultural emotion has been one of my most important takeaways. Truly embrace personal responsibility, keep your energy high through every up and down, and remember that consistency is the most resounding message I want to leave with all of you today.”   Mr Ambrish Sinha, Chief Executive Officer, UNext Learning - Guest of Honour remarked, “ To all the graduates here today, you are the future. You are graduating at a time when India’s industries are transforming at lightning speed. Our healthcare system is expanding, our digital economy is accelerating, and our supply chains are going global. The world needs leaders who can think across data, strategy, technology, and people. And you represent exactly that kind of talent. And if there is one thing your journey has proven, it is this: you are ready for what comes next. Congratulations again. ”   The ceremony also saw the presence of other senior leadership including Dr Vinod V Thomas, Registrar, Evaluation, MAHE, Dr Sharath Kumar Rao K, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), MAHE, Dr Dilip G Naik, Pro Vice Chancellor (MAHE Mangalore Campus), Dr P Giridhar Kini, Registrar, MAHE, Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor (Technology & Science), Dr Manojkumar Nagasampige, Director, DOE, MAHE and along with other distinguished dignitaries and Heads of Institutions.   Premium Education Designed for Real-World Success The convocation also featured many compelling stories from graduates whose careers and lives had significantly evolved through MAHE’s online programs. Many shared achievements such as promotions, new entrepreneurial ventures, global opportunities, and meaningful career transitions. Accessible from tier-2 and tier-3 cities as well as international locations, MAHE Online has enabled thousands to pursue world-class education without geographical or professional constraints.   About MAHE Online Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is one of India’s leading academic and research institutions. It is ranked #3 by NIRF, along with a NAAC A++ rating and prestigious Institution of Eminence (IoE) recognition. The institution has been offering world-class education across diverse streams since 1953.MAHE’s online learners get free access to Coursera courses and certifications during the tenure of the program. They are also offered placement assistance in the form of skill assessments & enhancement, industry-readiness sessions, resume building, and virtual placement drives.MAHE currently offers 10 degrees & certification programs online mode and caters to 13,000+ learners across 55 countries and over 25 states.   www.onlinemanipal.com/institution/mahe   About Online Manipal Online Manipal is the digital home of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ), and Sikkim Manipal University (SMU). These three Manipal universities, accredited with NAAC A++ and NAAC A+, offer UGC-entitled online degrees equivalent to on-campus programs. Since its inception in 2021, Online Manipal has empowered over 150,000 learners to realize their potential by providing them with accessible, affordable & industry-relevant degrees and new-age certifications in a 100% online mode. Online Manipal’s integrated learning platform gives access to extensive e-learning material, recorded sessions, webinars, doubt clearing sessions, quizzes, assignments, and more.   www.onlinemanipal.com .

Youth Dies After Accidental Firing of Traditional Khadwa Gun in Pakyong

Pakyong, Dec 01: A hunting expedition took a tragic turn in Upper Bering, Pakyong district, The post Youth Dies After Accidental Firing of Traditional Khadwa Gun in Pakyong appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Musk Predicts Work Will Be Optional Hobby Within 20 Years Due to AI Boom

New Delhi, Nov 30 : Tech magnate Elon Musk asserts that rapidly accelerating advancements in The post Musk Predicts Work Will Be Optional Hobby Within 20 Years Due to AI Boom appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Political Secretary Jacob Khaling Clarifies Misleading Claims on Government Assistance

Gangtok, Nov 30 : Political Secretary to the Chief Minister, Jacob Khaling, has issued a The post Political Secretary Jacob Khaling Clarifies Misleading Claims on Government Assistance appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Air pollution levels across north India are significantly higher than national average: Report

CHANDIGARH: The air pollution levels across North India are significantly higher than the national average as per the latest report released by Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), an independent research organisation. The report stated that Delhi, along with Punjab, Assam and Tripura, was identified as a year-round pollution hotspot failing to meet PM 2.5 standard even during the monsoons. On the other hand, the southern states recorded the lowest values. The report titled, Beyond City Limits: A Satellite-Based PM-2.5 Assessment Across Indias Airsheds, States and Districts, stated that all the 23 districts of Punjab, 22 of Haryana and 12 of Himachal Pradesh exceeded the annual National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) of 40 ug/m3 for PM 2.5 concentration last year. During summer, winter and post-monsoon periods, PM 2.5 concentrations exceeded the NAAQS limits in these states. During the monsoon, 15 out of 23 districts in Punjab, 5 out of 22 in Haryana and 2 out of 12 districts in Himachal Pradesh exceeded the air quality limit. It read, Delhi recorded the highest pollution levels with an annual mean PM 2.5 concentration of 101 g/m, 2.5 times the Indian standard and 20 times the World Health Organisation (WHO). The pollution crisis extends across northern India, with the average PM 2.5 concentrations in all states in these regions, including Delhi, Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). This concentration of pollution aligns with their location in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The eastern and northeastern states showed similarly concerning levels, with PM 2.5 average concentrations in Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh all above the NAAQS. Among western states, the mean concentrations in Rajasthan and Gujarat exceeded the annual national standard, it added. While the southern states presented the lowest PM 2.5 values, Puducherry recorded the lowest concentration at 25 g/m, followed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Sikkim, Telangana, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. The report stated that Delhi consistently ranks as the most polluted city across all seasons, highlighting the capital's year-round air quality crisis. While Chandigarh appears in the top five during three seasons (winter, summer, and post-monsoon), West Bengal also ranks among the worst across the winter and post-monsoon seasons. Punjab and Haryana emerged as major air-pollution concerns, with Punjab during the monsoon and post-monsoon periods and Haryana during the summer and post-monsoon periods. The northeastern states present an unexpected pollution hotspot, with Assam and Tripura featuring in the top five in three seasons (winter, summer, and monsoon). Overall, 60 per cent of districts (447 out of 749) exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for annual PM 2.5. None of the districts met the World Health Organisation (WHO) guideline of less than 5 g/m. The most polluted districts are heavily concentrated in a few states, highlighting regional clustering of severe air quality issues. Delhi (11 districts) and Assam (11 districts) alone account for nearly half of the top 50, followed by Bihar (7) and Haryana (7). Other notable contributors include Uttar Pradesh (4), Tripura (3), Rajasthan (2), West Bengal (2), and single districts from Chandigarh, Meghalaya and Nagaland, it reads. It further added, Several states are in universal non-compliance, where all monitored districts exceed the NAAQS. These include Delhi, Assam, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Jammu and Kashmir. Several other states show a large majority of districts breaching the norm, such as Bihar (37 of 38), West Bengal (22 of 23), Gujarat (32 of 33), Nagaland (11 of 12), Rajasthan (30 of 33), and Jharkhand (21 of 24). A second group shows mixed performance, where some districts meet the standard but many continue to exceed it. This includes Uttar Pradesh (49 of 75 districts exceeding), Odisha (22 of 30), Madhya Pradesh (27 of 52), and Maharashtra (14 of 36). In the Northeast, Arunachal Pradesh (12 exceed, 13 comply) and Manipur (five exceed, 11 comply) also fall in this transitional category. At the other end of the spectrum, several states have the majority of their districts below NAAQS, such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Sikkim, Goa, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. These contrasting patterns highlight the continued dominance of northern and eastern states in Indias PM 2.5 pollution hotspots, while southern and coastal regions remain relatively cleaner. The report stated that the states should develop district-level air quality action plans, guided by satellite data to identify hotspots, prioritise high-exposure populations, and allocate mitigation resources efficiently. The satellite-derived PM 2.5 data should be formally integrated into NCAP for spatially comprehensive assessment and performance tracking. Also, establishing protocols for validation, periodic updates, and public dissemination of satellite-based estimates will strengthen transparency and enable real-time decision-making in areas lacking ground monitors.

Nepal Rastra Bank issues Rs 100 bank notes with map of Nepal comprising disputed areas with India

KATHMANDU: Nepal's central bank on Thursday issued new Rs 100 denomination bank notes that have a revised map of the country, including the controversial Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura territories, termed as artificial enlargement by India. The new note from the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) bears the signature of previous Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari. The date of issuance of the bank note is mentioned as 2081 BS, which denotes the previous year, 2024. During the Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli-led government, Nepal had updated the map, comprising Kalapani, Lipulek and Limpiyadhura territories, through a Parliament endorsement in May 2020. Clarifying the matter regarding the updated version of map, an NRB spokesperson said that the map is already there in the old Rs 100 bank note and it has been revised as per the government's decision. Among various denominations of bank notes such as Rs 10, Rs 50, Rs 500, and Rs 1,000, only the bank note with Rs 100 denomination bears the map of Nepal, others do not, he clarified. India maintains that Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura belong to it. India had in 2020 reacted sharply, calling Nepal's revised map a unilateral act and cautioned Kathmandu that such artificial enlargement of territorial claims will not be acceptable to it. Nepal's new Rs 100 bank note has Mt Everest on its left side while there is a water mark of Rhododendron, the national flower of Nepal, on the right. There is a faint green colour map of Nepal printed in the background at the centre of the bank note. The Ashok Pillar is also printed near the map with the text Lumbini, the birth place of Lord Buddha. On the back side of the bank note, there is a picture of one horned rhino. The bank note also has a security thread and an embossed black dot, which helps blind people to recognize it. Nepal shares a border of over 1850 km with five Indian states - Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

Shillong to host Santosh Trophy matches

By Our Reporter Shillong, Nov 26: Shillong is set to host the Group E fixtures of the 79th National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy 2025-26, with all matches scheduled to take place at the SSA Stadium in Polo Grounds. Group E will feature three teams including host Meghalaya, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh who will []

MCA picks squad for first two matches of Vijay Merchant Trophy

By Our Reporter Shillong, Nov 25: The Meghalaya Cricket Association has named its squad for the first two matches of the multi-day U-16 boys Vijay Merchant Trophy 2025-26. The plate group matches will all take place in Surat and Meghalayas first fixture will be against Sikkim from December 7 to 9. The second game will []

Uttarakhand turns to hydroseeding to tackle persistent landslides on Badrinath highway

DEHRADUN: Facing relentless landslides in one of India's top 10 most vulnerable districts, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is now turning to an advanced biological solution, hydroseeding, to stabilise a critical stretch of the Badrinath Highway near Kameda in Gauchar. This shift comes after earlier engineering interventions allegedly failed to contain the erosion that has long threatened this vital route. The 120-metre stretch near Kameda, located in the highly landslide-prone Rudraprayag district, experiences significant debris flow during the monsoon season. For over five years, the slope above the highway has continually shed soil, rocks and boulders, frequently disrupting traffic for hours. For more than five years, the slope here has been unstable. When the rains hit, large boulders roll onto the highway, stated a local resident, requesting anonymity due to the frequent closures. Previously, NHAI had attempted stabilisation using conventional engineering methods. Steel netting anchored by 6 to 8-inch iron rods (anchors) was installed into the slope before the monsoon. However, heavy rains led to substantial slippage, allegedly rendering the nets ineffective. Now, the focus has shifted to Hydroseeding Mulch, a technique involving the spraying of a mixture of seeds, water and fertiliser onto the slope. We are employing Hydroseeding Mulch to prevent further landslides in this steep terrain. We anticipate this method will be effective, said JP Sharma, Project Manager at RCC Developers, associated with the project. We are currently verifying the existing anchors before fully implementing this technique, as this method has proven successful in mountainous regions. Hydroseeding is an advanced bio-engineering technique designed to rapidly establish a protective layer of grass or vegetation on steep slopes, roadsides and mining areas. The mixture includes mulch fibres that bind the soil together, preventing erosion from heavy rain or wind, while the seeds germinate to create a living root structure for long-term stability. The urgency of this stabilisation effort is underscored by recent data classifying India's most vulnerable zones. Official sources confirm that Rudraprayag and Tehri Garhwal in Uttarakhand are among the top 10 most landslide-prone districts in the country. Apart from Rudraprayag and Tehri in Uttarakhand, the list of high-risk districts also includes: Kerala: Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram and Kozhikode. Jammu and Kashmir: Rajouri and Poonch. Sikkim: South and East Sikkim. The NHAI hopes that this biological intervention will finally stabilise the Badrinath route before the next monsoon season arrives.

BJP begins search for new Bihar president after Jaiswal joins cabinet

PATNA: The search for a new Bihar BJP president has begun after the induction of incumbent Dilip Kumar Jaiswal into the Nitish Kumar cabinet as a minister. Jaiswal, a member of the legislative council, will have to step down as party chief under the one person, one post policy. Sources within the BJP said senior leaders have already begun discussions on a new state president after Jaiswal was made a minister from the BJP quota. A senior leader, who camped in Bihar throughout the election, has been reportedly tasked to select the names of probable candidates for the post. Three names will be selected and sent to the central leadership, a senior BJP leader said. Janak Ram, a former minister, is among the Dalit leaders whose name is doing the rounds for the state presidents post. Ram, a turncoat, is now a prominent Dalit face of BJP in Bihar. Before joining BJP in 2013, he was associated with Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). Ram also served as a minister in the previous NDA government and also served as an MP from Gopalganj. He might be considered for the state presidents post as Dalits constitute nearly 20 per cent of the states population. Sanjiv Chaurasia is another leader who may be considered for the post. He comes from Extremely Backward Classes (EBC), which constitute nearly 36 per cent of the states population. Son of former governor of Sikkim Ganga Prasad, Chaurasia has won election from Digha for the third time and had been associated with Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) from the very beginning. He was also made state president and national general secretary of Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha and also served as state vice president and general secretary of BJP. Mithilesh Tiwari, who unsuccessfully contested the 2019 Lok Sabha election from Buxar, is also a strong contender for the state presidents post among the Upper Caste leaders. He has vast experience of working with the organisation in different capacities and enjoyed the support of RSS. Nitish Mishra, former minister and MLA from Jhanjharpur, and Vivek Thakur, MP from Nawada, are among the other front runners for the post among Upper Caste leaders. Mishras tenure as industries minister in the previous NDA government was remarkable. Vivek Thakur is the son of veteran BJP leader Dr. C. P. Thakur, a former union minister. The new state president is likely to be appointed in the new year. Meanwhile, leaders are actively manoeuvring through the political corridors, each eyeing the coveted position.

Nineteen years and counting: Nitishs unbroken grip on Bihar

On Thursday, Nitish Kumar achieved yet another rare political milestone, becoming Bihars longest-serving chief minister, despite his party repeatedly finishing as the second-largest partner in both the Mahagathbandhan and NDA alliances in recent times. With this latest swearing-in , he joins the group of Indias ten longest-serving chief ministersa list long dominated by political stalwarts such as Sikkims Pawan Kumar Chamling and Odishas Naveen Patnaik. Chamling served as chief minister for 25 years, while Patnaik has held office for 24 years. West Bengals Jyoti Basu governed for more than 23 years, and Arunachal Pradeshs Gegong Apang for over 22 years. Mizorams Lal Thanhawla also crossed the 22-year mark, while Himachal Pradeshs Virbhadra Singh served more than 21 years. Tripuras Manik Sarkar held office for 19 years. Nitish Kumar, similarly, has now completed roughly 19 years as Bihars chief minister. Tamil Nadus M. Karunanidhi served for more than 18 years, and Punjabs Parkash Singh Badal is also credited with over 18 years in office. In Bihar, however, what distinguishes Nitish Kumar most is his repeated return to the top post, even after shifting between alliances. While Prime Minister Modi promotes the mantra of Sabka Vikas with Sabka Saath through Sabka Prayas, Nitish Kumar is often described as Sabka CM. Political observers in the state believe this contributes to his steady influence among minority voters. He has again included a Muslim minister in his cabinet, and the JD(U) fielded four Muslim candidates in the recently concluded Bihar Assembly elections. Another point of alignment between him and Prime Minister Modi is his refusal to allow family members to hold roles within the JD(U), reflecting his firm stance against dynastic politicssomething that contrasts with many parties in the Mahagathbandhan. Just as Modi maintains a stance of zero tolerance for corruption and nepotism, Nitish Kumar has ensured that neither corruption, nepotism, nor communalism gains a foothold in his administration. The political chemistry between Nitish Kumar and Narendra Modi within the NDA is often regarded as one of the most dependable partnerships in Bihar. Both leaders have no family members active in politics and are widely seen by the public as hardworking, sincere, and trustworthy.

Meghalaya edge Sikkim in tense finale

Cooch Behar Trophy By Our Reporter Shillong, Nov 18: Led by a century from Gaurav Narleng (128) and an impenetrable knock by Angkit The Rock Tamang (35 not out), Meghalaya defeated Sikkim by two wickets on a thrilling third day to win their Cooch Behar Trophy 2025-26 plate group match at the MCA Ground here []

MAHE Successfully Concludes PREvention and SCReening Innovation Project Toward Elimination of Cervical Cancer (PRESCRIP-TEC)

Over 10,000 Women Sensitized: 7,200+ Participate in hrHPV Self-Testing 160+ Healthcare Workers Trained in Innovative Screening Techniques Field-tested Indigenously developed AI-Assisted Cervical Cancer screening device across multiple center s in Indian and across Bangladesh and Uganda   Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) successfully convened the PRESCRIP-TEC Conference on November 13–14, aligning with the Government of India’s Cervical Cancer Elimination Mission. MAHE's Manipal School of Information Sciences (MSIS), Prasanna School of Public Health (PSPH), and Kasturba Medical College (KMC, Manipal) organized the conference in Manipal.   Transforming cervical cancer screening through collaboration: "PRESCRIP-TEC Conference" at MAHE   The PRESCRIP-TEC consortium represents a powerful collaboration of global and national institutions — including DBT, Tata Memorial Hospital, the University of Groningen (The Netherlands), and MAHE, which serves as the lead implementing partner in India. Together, they exemplify thought leadership and cross-sectoral partnership in advancing equitable women’s health and India’s 2030 elimination target.   The two-day event brought together national and international experts, policymakers, and healthcare professionals to discuss scalable innovations in cervical cancer screening under the Prevention and Screening Innovation Project Toward Elimination of Cervical Cancer (PRESCRIP-TEC), a global initiative jointly implemented by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the European Union’s Horizon 2020 program.   PRESCRIP-TEC’s “Screen, Triage, and Treat” model integrates community participation, digital health, and AI-enabled diagnostics. Across India, the project has sensitized over 10,000 women, facilitated 7,200+ hrHPV self-tests, and conducted 360+ AI-assisted Visual Inspections with Acetic Acid (VIA-AI) using the SAKHI Smart AI Kit for Healthcare Innovation. Over 100 community health workers and 60 medical professionals have been trained, reinforcing the model’s scalability and integration within primary healthcare systems.   This approach, built on inclusivity and cost-effectiveness, serves as a replicable blueprint for cervical cancer elimination in low- and middle-income countries.   A major highlight in PRESCRIP-TEC is Development and Field testing of AI Innovation Previously part of a Ph.D. at MAHE, Designed and refined at the Manipal School of Information Sciences, this indigenous AI-assisted decision-support system (AI-DSS) powers the VIA-AI component of the project, enabling accurate and affordable early detection in field settings. Currently undergoing validation across India, Bangladesh, and Uganda, the technology underscores India’s growing capability to develop and deploy homegrown digital health solutions of global relevance.   Distinguished speakers included Dr. Abhishek Kunwar (WHO India), Dr. Anu Mary Oommen (CMC Vellore), Dr. Esmy P. Okkuru, Radiation Oncologist at CFCHC, Tamil Nadu and Dr. Bency Joseph (ICMR-NCDIR), alongside leading experts from across the world.   Opening the conference, Dr. Keerthana Prasad, Professor and Director, MSIS, and Lead Principal Investigator of PRESCRIP-TEC , remarked, “PRESCRIP-TEC represents a paradigm shift in how we approach cervical cancer screening in resource-limited settings. Through AI-assisted diagnostics and strong community engagement, we are transforming access to preventive healthcare and contributing to India’s 2030 elimination mission.”   The India implementation of PRESCRIP-TEC, involving MAHE, SDM College of Ayurveda (Udupi), Tata Memorial Hospital (Mumbai), Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute and Tata Medical Center (Kolkata), St. John’s Medical College (Bengaluru), and Sikkim Manipal University (Gangtok), concluded with actionable recommendations for integrating AI-based screening and cost-effective strategies into India’s national framework.   By converging research, technology, and community action, PRESCRIP-TEC stands as a model for how collaborative innovation can drive national health transformation - placing India at the forefront of the global mission to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030.   www.prescriptec.org   About Manipal Academy of Higher Education The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specializations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3 rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life.

Cervical cancer claims over three lakh lives every year globally: WHO

NEW DELHI: Cervical cancer, the fourth most common cancer in women globally, claims over 3,50,000 lives each year, said the WHO on Monday. Marking the first World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said that it is a disease that already has the tools to be eliminated. In 2018, I was proud to launch the global call to action on cervical cancer elimination, and I'm even prouder now to see what was once a distant dream becoming a reality, said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. More and more countries are scaling up HPV vaccination, improving screening, and expanding treatment, bringing us closer to a future free of cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine which protects against the human papillomavirus, the primary cause of cervical cancer is highly effective, averting 17.4 deaths for every 1,000 children vaccinated. WHO highlighted the announcement from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and its partners, that they have met the ambitious goal to reach 86million girls by the end of 2025. WHO said this reflects a broader wave of action to advance national elimination plans and expand access to screening and treatment. In India, over 80,000 cervical cancer cases were reported in 2023-24. The Union Budget 2024 prioritised the phased introduction of the cervical vaccine, with the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation recommending its inclusion in the UIP for girls aged 9-14 years. AIIMS doctors develop Rs 100 kit to detect cervical cancer in two hours The HPV vaccine for cervical cancer, the second most common cancer in India, is yet to be included in the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP). The HPV vaccination has only been launched in Sikkim and Bihar. Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, a public-private partnership that helps vaccinate more than half the worlds children against some of the worlds deadliest diseases, said, more than one million cervical cancer deaths have been prevented, and an estimated 86 million girls are now protected against the leading cause of cervical cancer. The Vaccine Alliance brings together developing countries and donor governments, the WHO, UNICEF, the World Bank, the vaccine industry, technical agencies, civil society, the Gates Foundation and other private sector partners. Every two minutes, a woman dies from cervical cancer, a disease that is both devastating and largely preventable, said Dr Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. Experts call for HPV awareness to fight cervical cancer In 2023, Gavi, in partnership with countries across the world, launched an ambitious campaign to protect 86 million girls against the primary cause of cervical cancer and prevent more than a million deaths. Thanks to the incredible commitment from countries, partners, civil society and communities, we have now reached the target ahead of schedule. This collaborative effort is driving major global progress towards eliminating one of the deadliest diseases affecting women. Cervical cancer strikes hardest in lower-income countries, which often lack screening services and equitable access to treatment. As a result, these countries account for 90% of the 3,50,000 deaths from cervical cancer recorded in 2022, it said. According to WHO, the World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day supports the core pillars of the WHOs global elimination strategy: vaccinating 90% of girls against human papillomavirus (HPV), screening 70% of women, and treating 90% of those with pre-cancer and invasive cancer. It serves as a critical platform to strengthen advocacy, accelerate service delivery, and mobilise resources to ensure that every woman and girl has access to life-saving care, the WHO said.

Butterfly that mimics dry leaf may become Madhya Pradeshs next 'state butterfly'

pBHOPAL: A tropical Asian butterfly, famed for its extraordinary ability to camouflage itself as a dry or dead leaf, may soon be declared tiger-cheetah state Madhya Pradeshs state butterfly. The countrys tiger-cheetah-leopard-wolf and gharial state Madhya Pradesh may soon notify the Orange Oakleaf variety as its state butterfly. If the state forest departments proposal to declare Kallima inachus as the states butterfly materialises, the Orange Oakleaf will become the central Indian states official state butterfly. Confirming that a proposal has been sent recently to the state government, MPs Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF-Wildlife), Subhranjan Sen, said once the proposal is cleared, MP will join the select league of states which already have their state butterflies. The Orange Oakleaf butterfly is particularly found in the dense forests of the Satpura Mountain Range. Its declaration as the states butterfly will render momentum to focussed efforts on butterfly conservation, Sen told TNIE on Sunday. At least ten states and Union Territories in the country have granted state butterfly status to unique genres of butterflies. These states include Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Tripura and Uttarakhand, which notified their state butterflies between 2016 and 2023. Once MP notifies the Orange Oakleaf as its state butterfly, it will become perhaps the first state in central India to do so. The Orange Oakleaf butterfly flies in the Himalayas at low elevations, from Jammu and Kashmir to Garhwal and Kumaon, and across West Bengal, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and other northeastern states. It is also found in central and peninsular India, including Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Odisha. It flies along the central Indian highlands to Pachmarhi and Amarkantak in the Satpura Mountain Range in Madhya Pradesh. Its wings are shaped like a leaf when in a closed position. When the wings are closed, only the cryptic underside markings are visible. The resemblance to a dried leafa masqueradeis extremely realistic and gives the genus its common names, the oakleaf or dead leaf. Butterflies occupy a key position in ecosystem stability by acting as pollinators, helping plants reproduce and being a critical part of the food web or chain also, rendering a food source for predators like birds and bats. They are also vital environmental indicators, as their sensitivity to changes in their habitat signals the overall health of an ecosystem, the PCCF-Wildlife said. Notification of a state butterfly by the forest- and wildlife-rich state will also promote focussed research on various butterflies in MP, which is already considered home to 150 to 175 butterfly varieties.

Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang stable, under observation: Hospital bulletin

GANGTOK: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, who was undergoing treatment at a hospital following nose bleeding and high blood pressure, was stable on Friday morning, a bulletin issued by the health facility said. Tamang was brought to the Central Referral Hospital on Thursday, following a minor episode of nose bleeding and elevated blood pressure, the bulletin said. He received immediate medical attention and his condition was promptly stabilised, it said. The chief minister is currently under observation and remains stable, the CRH Medical Superintendent said, adding that there is no cause for concern at this time. The hospital will continue to monitor his condition as per standard protocol, and he will be discharged soon, the bulletin added.

MHA releases Rs 900 crore helicopter subsidy scheme for north-eastern states

NEW DELHI: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has released a little over Rs 900 crore for seven north-eastern states under the helicopter subsidy scheme for the financial years in the period from 2015-16 to 2024-25, officials said on Monday. They said that as part of the scheme to provide connectivity to remote areas of the north-eastern states, the helicopter subsidy is being administered by the MHA. The states include Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Mizoram and Manipur. The scheme aims to provide affordable passenger transport in the north-eastern region of the country and assistance is given for evacuation during natural calamities and for urgent medical evacuation. The MHA will bear 75% of the total cost of operation after deducting passenger recovery or a flat 20 percent of the actual operation cost, whichever is more, according to a policy note issued by the North East Division of MHA. For the purpose of restricting the subsidy, the MHA has also fixed an annual ceiling on the flying hours for the seven eligible states. Giving the break for each financial year, the officials said Rs 76.45 crore is given for 2015-16, Rs 86 crore for 2016-17, Rs 86 crore for 2017-18, Rs 90 crore for 2018-19, Rs 100 crore for 2019-20, Rs 72.50 crore for 2020-21, Rs 100 crore for 2021-22, Rs 100 crore for 2022-23, Rs 88 crore for 2023-24 and Rs 110 crore for 2024-25, which is the highest so far. The types of helicopters operating in the northeastern region include Dauphin, MI-172, Bell 412, and Bell 407, among other models. Each state has a fixed number of flying hours per annum sanctioned by the MHA, as Tripura has 480 hours, Arunachal Pradesh 3,460 hours, Sikkim 1,200 hours, Meghalaya 720 hours, Nagaland 480 hours and Mizoram 960 hours.

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's Green Vision Shines in Sikkim as AOL-SSRDP and Schneider Electric Make Bariakhop School a Smart Model School on Its 75th Anniversary

The Government Senior Secondary School, Bariakhop, celebrated its 75th anniversary with a historic transformation, emerging as a Smart Model School powered by Solar energy and digital innovation. This milestone was achieved by The Art of Living’s Sri Sri Rural Development Programme Trust (AOL-SSRDP) , founded by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar , in collaboration with Schneider Electric India Foundation , bringing sustainable and technology-driven education to rural Sikkim.   CM Shri Prem Singh Tamang, Minister Shri Raju Basnett, Shri Prasana Prabhu, Chairman, AOL-SSRDP & SSIAST, and other dignitaries   The inauguration event was graced by Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) , Shri M. N. Sherpa , Hon’ble Speaker of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Shri Raju Basnett , Hon’ble Minister for Education, Shri Aditya Golay , Hon’ble MLA, Soreng Constituency, Shri Prasana Prabhu , Chairman, AOL-SSRDP and AOL-SSIAST , senior government officials, and Ms. Anjali Lekhi , Manager – CSR, Schneider Electric .   Shri Prasana Prabhu, Chairman, AOL-SSRDP & SSIAST, welcomed Hon’ble CM Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay)   Bridging the Educational Divide through Technology and Sustainability With the vision of a sustainable, self-reliant India, the Smart Model School Program by AOL-SSRDP bridges educational and digital divides through renewable energy, technology-enabled learning, and teacher capacity building.   The newly inaugurated Solar Smart School at Bariakhop features a 2.2 kWp solar-powered classroom with battery backup, a Samsung 65” Smart Interactive Board with webcam, a wireless router with a 3-year data plan, audio-visual K–12 learning content, and planned additions including STEM Labs and WASH facilities.   Across Sikkim, AOL-SSRDP has empowered 79 government schools , impacting 20,000+ students and 2,500+ teachers. Nationally, the initiative spans 473 government schools across 36 districts in 10 States/UTs, including 293 in border and aspirational regions, reaching more than 1.3 lakh students and teachers annually.   Transforming Education, Empowering Lives AOL-SSRDP’s Smart Model School is redefining rural education through modern infrastructure, digital empowerment, and holistic growth. Smart classrooms, clean facilities, and science labs create engaging learning spaces that boost attendance and retention. STEM kits and computer labs build digital literacy and problem-solving skills, while capacity-building workshops for teachers enhance pedagogy and confidence. Sudarshan Kriya, yoga, meditation, and life skills training foster focus, emotional balance, and leadership. Even in remote regions like Leh, solar-powered smart schools ensure that no child is left behind. Promoting sustainability, each school saves nearly 300 tonnes of CO annually through renewable energy and efficient infrastructure.   Voices of Vision and Transformation The inauguration of the Solar Smart Model School in Bariakhop was marked by messages of inspiration and hope from visionaries and partners.   In a special video message, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar , Founder of The Art of Living, shared,  “With changing times, we must integrate technology into our education system. Keeping this in mind, The Art of Living has taken many initiatives. Let us aim to make this country 100% literate and nurture personalities who will inspire and bring positive change in society for the betterment of all.”   Ms. Anjali Lekhi , Senior Manager – CSR, Schneider Electric shared,  “Our collaboration with AOL-SSRDP ensures that every child, regardless of geography, can learn in a powered, connected, and inspiring environment.”   Reflecting on the broader impact, Shri Prasana Prabhu , added,  “Along with modern infrastructure, AOL-SSRDP nurtures focus, intuition, and inner strength through yoga, meditation, and Sudarshan Kriya, shaping a generation that is both skilled and centered.”   Lighting Minds, Powering Dreams As the first solar-powered classroom lit up in Bariakhop, it symbolized more than electricity. It reflected AOL-SSRDP’s unwavering commitment to empowering rural India through knowledge, sustainability, and opportunity.   Echoing this spirit from the classroom, Kavya , a student of the school, said,  “Smart classes use videos and interactive sessions that make studying fun and easy to understand.”   Together, the partnership continues to light minds and power dreams , proving that with the right energy, every child can shine.   About Art of Living Social Projects (AOL-SSRDP & AOL-SSIAST) Inspired by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the Art of Living Social Projects — implemented through AOL-SSRDP and AOL-SSIAST — are driving one of India’s largest sustainable transformation movements. To date, 152 water bodies have been restored, 3 million farmers trained in natural farming, 4.75 lakh youth skilled, 665 border villages developed, 50 Medetel Health Units operational, and over 100 million trees planted — a growing legacy of empowerment and sustainable development.   Support the Mission Contribute to the Art of Living’s Sri Sri Rural Development Programs and help expand these initiatives: ssrdp.artofliving.org/donate-ssrdp   Join Us ssrdp.artofliving.org www.instagram.com/srisrirdp www.facebook.com/SriSriRDP x.com/srisrirdp www.linkedin.com/company/srisrirdp  

Army begins work on a new military station in Assam under Eastern Command

NEW DELHI: Amid the ongoing expansion and reorganisation of security infrastructure and military formations, the foundation stone for a new military station under the Eastern Command was laid on Thursday. The Army said the establishment of this station marks a significant step in strengthening the operational capabilities and infrastructure of the Indian Army in the region. Informing about the event, the Army stated, Lieutenant General R. C. Tiwari, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, visited the Gajraj Corps in the border areas and laid the foundation stone of the Lachit Borphukan Military Station at Dhubri, Assam. The station holds strategic importance due to its location along the banks of the River Brahmaputra and will serve as a logistics, training, and administrative base for the armed forces. Dhubri shares an international border with Bangladesh and lies close to the border with Bhutan. Named after the legendary Ahom commander Lachit Borphukan, the new military station symbolises the indomitable spirit of courage, leadership, and resilience that defines the heritage of a resurgent Assam. During his visit, the Army Commander reviewed the operational readiness and internal security situation in the bordering areas, as well as the progress of ongoing infrastructure development initiatives undertaken by the formation. Lieutenant General Tiwari expressed gratitude to the Government of Assam and the civil administration for their unwavering support and proactive role in facilitating the establishment of the new military station. He also commended all ranks of the Gajraj Corps for their dedication, professionalism, and collective efforts in ensuring the early operationalisation of the project. The Indian Armys Eastern Command oversees the 1,346 km Line of Actual Control (LAC) covering Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, in addition to managing borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh. The Lachit Borphukan Military Station stands as a testament to the synergy between the armed forces and the state administration, reflecting their shared vision of national security and regional development.

From Ayodhya to Sikkim: Delhi's 41 Roundabouts to Tell India's Story

Delhi's roads are set to become a living showcase of India's rich cultural tapestry. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Public Works Department (PWD) has announced a massive beautification drive that will transform 41 major roundabouts.

'Traditional attire day' to be observed at govt offices in Sikkim every Thursday

Sikkim state to promote cultural and traditional values

Heavy Snowfall Along Indo-China Border, Red Alert Issued For Sikkim

Fresh snowfall blanketed the higher reaches of the Indo-China border, including the Nathula Pass area, on Friday, bringing temperatures down sharply across Sikkim.

Today weather forecast: IMD issues heavy rainfall alert for Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim and Madhya Pradesh. Check full list

Weather today: India braces for widespread rain and thunderstorms until November 2, driven by two significant weather systems. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is anticipated in several regions, including Sikkim and West Bengal, with Gujarat also facing strong winds and lightning. Other areas like Bihar, Jharkhand, and parts of the Northeast will experience moderate to heavy showers.

SIR in India: ECI announces special intensive revision of electoral rolls in 12 states; final list on Feb 7, 2026

The Election Commission on Monday launched the second phase of the nationwide Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, covering 12 states and Union Territories, including poll-bound West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry. States like Maharashtra and snow-bound regions such as Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Ladakh will be covered later.

Over 2,200 runners participate in 'Sikkim Soldierthon' Marathon

The marathon was flagged off by Mizoram Governor GeneralV.K. Singh (retired) in the presence of Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur at the Paljor stadium

Arpit, Kishans tons script Mlayas comeback

RANJI TROPHY By Our Reporter Shillong, Oct 26: Classy centuries by Arpit Bhatewara and Kishan Lyngdoh gave Meghalaya a solid platform for the host team to aim for a massive first innings total as they posted 271/2 at stumps on the second day of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 plate group match against Sikkim at the []

Dr Ranjit honoured with award for works in knee replacement surgery

Excelsior Correspondent JALANDHAR, Oct 25: The renowned orthopaedic surgeon Dr Ranjit Singh was today conferred with the Excellence Award for his outstanding contributions to the field of knee replacement surgery, particularly for his innovation and mastery in the Zero Technique, a procedure powered by Artificial Intelligence. The award was presented by Governor of Sikkim, Gurbachan Jagat. The event also witnessed the esteemed presence of Punjab Governor, Gulab Chand Kataria, who addressed the gathering and lauded Dr Singhs dedication and precision [] The post Dr Ranjit honoured with award for works in knee replacement surgery appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Sikkim hold edge over Meghalaya

RANJI TROPHY By Our Reporter Shillong, Oct 25: Sikkim walked off the field at stumps in a fine mood after posting 310/6 on the opening day of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 plate group match against Meghalaya at the MCA Ground in Polo here on Saturday. Meghalaya won the toss in the morning and, as is []

Sikkim Orders Ban On Firecrackers, Single-Use Plastic Ahead Of Diwali

SPCB urged citizens to avoid firecrackers and single-use plastics, promoting eco-friendly alternatives such as light displays

Why Danny Denzongpa refused to work with Salman Khan for 23 years

Hyderabad: Danny Denzongpa, born Tshering Phintso Denzongpa in Sikkim, is one of the most respected actors in Indian cinema. He is known for his strong voice, classy style, and powerful villain roles. Danny has acted in more than 190 films in Hindi, Tamil, Nepali, and Bengali. Some of his famous movies include Mere Apne, Kalicharan, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Rahul Gandhi visits Zubeen Gargs family, calls for transparent probe

GUWAHATI: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited music icon Zubeen Gargs residence as well as samadhi in Guwahati on Friday and called for a transparent probe into his mysterious death while swimming at a sea in Singapore on September 19. I spoke to his family and they said only one thing, we have lost our Zubeen and all we want is that the truth should be clear, Gandhi told the media. Stating that it is a tragedy that the whole state is facing, he said it is the duty of the government to quickly and transparently investigate and tell the singers family members exactly what happened. At 17, when I was doing a mountaineering course in Sikkim, I would see Mt Kanchenjunga every day. It is honest, transparent, unshakable, and beautiful. Today, while I was coming, Gaurav (Assam Congress chief and MP Gaurav Gogoi) told me that Zubeen Ji said he was KanchenjungaHe was indeed Kanchenjunga because he had the qualities of Kanchenjunga, he said. Meanwhile, a local court remanded Gargs bandmate Shekhar Jyoti Goswami and singer Amrit Prava Mahanta to judicial custody on Friday at the end of their 14-day police custody. They will be reproduced in the court after 14 days. The two were arrested on October 3, after days of intense grilling by the Criminal Investigation Department-Special Investigation Team (CID-SIT). Altogether, seven people have been arrested so far in connection with the case. The others arrested are 4th North East India Festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, Gargs manager Siddhartha Sharma, DSP cousin Sandipan Garg, personal security officers Nandeswar Bora and Prabin Baishya. They are also in judicial custody. Apart from the probe being conducted by the CID-SIT, the state government also constituted a one-man inquiry commission, headed by Justice Soumitra Saikia of the Gauhati High Court, to investigate the case. Dont spread unverified information, Zubeens death probe may take another three months: Singapore Police

IUCN puts Western Ghats, two national parks on significant concern list

Sikkims Khangchendzonga National Park is the only Indian site among 11 in Asia rated good

Bisleri International Partners with KATALYTIC Charter Educational Foundation to Champion Sustainability in Sikkim's Schools

Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., India’s leading packaged drinking water company with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, has joined hands with the KATALYTIC Charter Educational Foundation (KCEF) to promote responsible plastic use and recycling across schools in Sikkim.    Bisleri International & KATALYTIC Charter Educational Foundation (KCEF) Unite for a Greener Tomorrow in Sikkim Schools   As part of Bottles of Change, the collaboration will conduct year-round awareness sessions in charter schools, encouraging students to creatively repurpose used plastic into functional and artistic objects, also engaging over 214 Schools to redefine plastic responsibility in Sikkim. The most innovative and impactful student creations will be recognized and awarded-celebrating youth-led action in environmental stewardship.   The initiative will also feature a mega cleanliness drive led by students from charter school students, and local communities. By combining Bisleri’s expertise in sustainability outreach with KCEF’s strong educational network, the partnership aims to embed sustainable habits within classrooms and nurture a culture of environmental responsibility among students and educators alike.  Speaking on the association, Mr K. Ganesh, Director – Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. , said, “ At Bisleri, we have consistently focused on engaging young minds to drive the message of sustainability. Through initiatives like ‘Bottles for Change’, we aim to instil a sense of environmental responsibility among students and empower them to lead by example. Earlier this year, we signed a MoU with National Book Trust and Centre for Environment Education to create and distribute an educational book on plastic waste management for Indian schools. Our partnership with KCEF is another step towards nurturing a generation that not only understands the importance of recycling and responsible plastic use but also actively contributes to building a cleaner, greener future .” Adding to this, Ms. Kunzang Choeki, Founder & Director of Katalytic Charter Educational Foundation , added, “ Education has the unique ability to transform how people think and act. Through this partnership with Bisleri, we’re bringing sustainability into the heart of classrooms and communities across Sikkim. By empowering students to take ownership of environmental action, we’re nurturing a generation that practices sustainability every day and inspires others to follow .”   This collaboration underscores Bisleri’s long-standing commitment to promoting responsible plastic use, recycling, and community participation. Together with KCEF, Bisleri aims to build a shared culture of accountability- empowering youth to lead the way toward a more sustainable future.   About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water. Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep. The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability.   www.bisleri.com .

Bisleri International Partners with KATALYTIC Charter Educational Foundation to Champion Sustainability in Sikkim's Schools

www.bisleri.com .

Sikkim Govt issues advisory on depiction of religious deities in tattoos

Sikkim issued a warning against objectionable depiction of religious deities after the International Tattoo Convention

Bihar polls: CPI-ML fields Divya Gautam from Digha seat

PATNA: Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) on Sunday announced its candidates for five assembly constituencies even as seat-sharing formula within INDIA bloc is yet to be formally announced. CPI-ML has fielded Divya Gautam, cousin of late Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput, from Digha assembly constituency in Patna district. Divya will file her nomination papers on October 15. Rambali Yadav and Madan Singh Chandravanshi will also represent CPI-ML from Ghosi in Jehanabad and Tarari in Bhojpur districts. Similarly, Shiv Prakash Ranjan has been fielded from Agiaon and Qauamuddin Ansari from Ara in Bhojpur district. A Patna Womens College alumni, Divya Gautam did her post graduation in Mass Communication from the Patna University and worked as assistant professor in the same institute before being finally selected as supply inspector through Bihar Public Service Commission. She, however, resigning from her government job and engaged in social activities. She has been fielded as CPI-ML candidate from Digha assembly constituency, the seat currently held by BJP MLA Sanjeev Chaurasia. Sanjeev is the son of Ganga Prasad, governor of Sikkim and Meghalaya. Divya Gautams entry into the political fray has drawn attention not only for her family connection but her local engagement in Patnas civic and social issues. Her candidacy is expected to appeal to younger voters and women in the Digha constituency. Late actor Sushant Singh Rajputs family also resided in the area falling under Digha assembly constituency. Singhs father K K Singh along with other family members reside at Rajeev Nagar under the same police station limits in Patna. Some residents suggested that Divya might emphasise her family connection to emotionally connect with the voters.

'Man-made disaster': Environmentalists blame unplanned urbanisation for Darjeeling landslides

DARJEELING: Environmentalists described the landslides in Darjeeling as a man-made ecological disaster, the inevitable outcome of decades of deforestation, unplanned urbanisation and poor governance that have pushed the fragile Himalayan slopes to the brink. They said the way forward lies in decentralised disaster planning, strict enforcement of construction norms, and climate-sensitive development to prevent the 'Queen of the Hills' from turning into a recurring disaster zone. The picturesque Darjeeling hills, long a refuge for weary travellers, now bear the scars of nature's fury. Twelve hours of relentless rain triggered a chain of deadly landslides that killed over 20 people and left scores homeless. The serene slopes have turned into sites of wreckage and despair -- a grim reminder that nature's retribution often follows human neglect. Environmentalists and experts who have long warned of such a catastrophe said this was not an unpredictable calamity, but the result of years of ecological exploitation and administrative apathy. The hills are paying for decades of neglect -- deforestation, unplanned roads, and reckless construction have made the terrain unstable. The rain is only the trigger; the real cause is how we have treated the mountains, said environmentalist Sujit Raha, a member of the North Bengal Science Centre. There is no proper disaster management plan in place to tackle such crises. The administration and authorities must take this problem seriously and not treat it as an annual tragedy, he said. Unchecked urban growth, poor drainage systems and hill-cutting for construction altered Darjeeling's ecosystem beyond recognition, he added. Disaster management expert Shailendra Mani Pradhan, a professor at Sarojini Naidu College for Women in Kolkata, said the landslides were a direct fallout of unregulated development in one of the country's most ecologically sensitive zones. Darjeeling lies in a high seismic area and is naturally prone to landslides. Yet, infrastructure development for tourism and housing continues without any adherence to building bylaws or drainage norms. The terrain is being pushed to its limits, he said. He pointed out that the rampant construction of multi-storey buildings on unstable slopes, particularly in Mirik, Kurseong, Kalimpong and Darjeeling towns, has increased the risk manifold. He called for decentralisation of disaster management, saying that while national and state-level frameworks exist, district-level disaster management committees remain largely non-functional. People must be sensitised to the ecological risks of violating construction norms. Around 7080 per cent of land in Darjeeling Municipality has been allotted for residential purposes, which is unsustainable, he said. Environmental scholar Vimal Khawas said the tragedy fits a recurring pattern of extreme climatic events that have haunted the region for decades. What we are seeing now is not new, but the scale of devastation this time reflects both natural vulnerability and growing human pressure on a fragile Himalayan ecosystem, he said. Habitations have spread into marginal areas where construction should never have been allowed. Weak enforcement of land use regulations, especially after the Gorkhaland agitation, has led to rampant building and road expansion without adherence to safety norms, said Khawas, a professor at JNU's Special Centre for the Study of Northeast India. He said the pattern of disasters seen in Sikkim, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh reflects a larger Himalayan crisis driven by global climate change, compounded by local governance failures. He said Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), which administers the Darjeeling hills, lacks both expertise and infrastructure for disaster management. The plans are mostly drawn up in Kolkata without factoring in the local topography. What Darjeeling needs is a locally driven disaster preparedness plan linked with climate action and inter-departmental coordination, especially in managing water resources, he said. Environmental activist Subhas Dutta said the recurring landslides underline the need for a long-term environmental management plan for the entire north Bengal-Sikkim belt. The continuous soil erosion in the hills is causing stones and sand to flow down into the plains, raising the riverbeds and disturbing their natural course. As a result, many riverbeds now lie higher than the surrounding inhabited areas, increasing the risk of floods, he explained. Environmental expert Satyadeep Chhetri warned that the eastern Himalayas have moved from climate change to the climate crisis phase, urging relocation of habitations from high-risk zones and rehabilitation of affected families. The refilled South Lhonak glacial lake poses a renewed threat, and the shift of extreme rainfall to September-October signals a dangerous new climatic pattern for the region, he said. Chetri claimed that large-scale hill-cutting for highways and the ongoing construction of the railway line to Rangpo have destabilised the terrain. The recent disaster bears grim echoes of the October 1968 deluge, when nearly 1,000 people perished as continuous downpours washed away entire settlements across the hills and plains.

Tourists In North Bengal Advised To Stay Where They Are, Mamata Banerjee Says Police Will Rescue Them

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday expressed deep concern over the devastating floods and landslides that have killed at least 17 people in Darjeeling and cut off road connectivity to key routes, including access to Sikkim

Several feared dead in Darjeeling as landslides triggered by heavy rain hit West Bengal district

Incessant rainfall triggered multiple landslides in West Bengal's Darjeeling district, with several feared dead. This follows similar disruptions in Kalimpong, closing key routes like NH10 and NH717A, heavily affecting Bengal-Sikkim traffic. Authorities are clearing debris, while the IMD forecasts heavy rain for the region due to a Bay of Bengal depression.

Rain Havoc In North Bengal: Multiple Landslides In Darjeeling Leave 5 Dead; IMD Issue Warnings

North Bengal Weather Update: A landslide on National Highway 717E, the alternative route connecting Siliguri and Sikkim, has brought traffic to a standstill.

Only two HCs have full strength of judges amid pendency load

NEW DELHI: Indias High Courts are facing a serious manpower crisis, with 330 judges posts lying vacant across 25 states. The Allahabad High Court is the worst affected, with 76 vacancies out of its sanctioned strength of 160the highest among all High Courts. Only two high courts, Sikkim and Meghalaya, are currently functioning with a full bench, according to data accessed by this newspaper from the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) and the Department of Justice. The data is as of September 1 this year. Despite the Supreme Court operating at full strength with 34 judges, the same cannot be said of the high courts, where the shortfall is slowing down the delivery of justice and adding to already massive case backlogs. The sanctioned strength of judges across all high courts is 1,122. But only 792 judges are currently serving. The 330 vacant posts include 161 permanent and 169 additional judges, who are usually appointed for a term not exceeding two years. Legal experts and former judges warn that unless these vacancies are filled promptly, the justice delivery system will continue to suffer badly resulting case pendency going up. The pendency of appointments directly affects case disposal. Litigants suffer the most, said Justice Anjana Prakash, former judge of the Patna High Court. Unless the judiciary and the Central government at address this as a very urgent issue, delays will persist. That is not something very desirable. Justice S R Singh, a former judge of the Allahabad High Court, expressed similar concern. Existing judges are overburdened, which affects both quality and efficiency. Appointments should be made strategically, based on pending caseloads in each high court, he told this newspaper. According to the NJDG, over 67 lakh cases are pending in high courts across the country. The Supreme Court itself has more than 60,000 pending cases despite having no vacancies to fill. Several major high courts continue to grapple with significant judicial vacancies, impacting the pace of justice delivery. The Bombay High Court leads with 26 vacancies out of 94 sanctioned judges. The Punjab and Haryana High Court follows closely with 25 out of 85 positions vacant. Calcutta has 24 out of 72, while Madras faces 19 vacancies out of 75. Patna has 18 out of 53, Delhi 16 out of 60, and Rajasthan 7 out of 50. The persistent shortage of judges is raising concerns over mounting case backlogs and delays in adjudication across these key judicial institutions. Judicial appointments remain a pressing issue for Indias legal system. Smaller high courts also reflect the strain: Uttarakhand has two vacancies out of 11 judges, and Tripura has one vacancy out of five. The appointment process, governed by the Collegium system and requiring government nod, has long been pointed out as reasons for delays. Recommendations are often returned, kept pending, or ignored causing bottlenecks that stretch for months before appointments are made. As the backlog continues to mount, the judiciary is under growing pressure to act swiftly. Experts say that urgent reforms and smoother coordination between the judiciary and the executive are essential to restore the efficiency of the justice system and public faith in it.

Three children go missing every day in Uttarakhand, raising concerns over child safety

DEHRADUN: A deeply alarming trend of missing children continues to plague the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, casting a dark shadow over its image as a peaceful haven. Despite intensified police vigilance, awareness campaigns, and frequent checkpoints, official data reveals a staggering and deeply concerning rate of disappearances. According to the latest report from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for the fiscal year 2023-24, an average of three children went missing in Uttarakhand every single day. The report highlights that a total of 1,209 children under the age of 18 were reported missing during this period. The most heartbreaking statistic, however, is the low recovery rate, only 276 of these children have been reunited with their families, leaving a staggering 933 children still unaccounted for. The report further breaks down the missing minors, 408 boys and 802 girls were reported missing, of whom 128 boys and 148 girls were subsequently found. Comparative glance: Himalayan states (2023-24 Data) State Missing Recovered Himachal Pradesh 504 81 Uttarakhand 1209 276 Sikkim 22 13 Arunachal Pradesh 40 21 Nagaland 47 0 Manipur 89 24 Mizoram 1 0 Tripura 268 37 Social activists have voiced strong concerns over the persistent crisis. Anoop Nautiyal, founder president of the Social Development for Communities Foundation, told this newspaper, This situation is deeply worrisome, especially when the state police run 'Operation Smile' every year specifically to trace missing children. The opposition has sharply criticised the ruling governments handling of law and order in light of these figures. Mohan Kala, spokesperson for the Congress party in the state, stated, The claims of the BJP government, which boasts of a safe and tranquil Uttarakhand, have been completely exposed by this data on law and order. Furthermore, the image of Uttarakhand, famous nationwide for tourism and religious pilgrimage, has been severely tarnished. Kala added, There is much fanfare and photo opportunities when claims are made about finding missing children and reuniting them with their families, but the NCRB report released just two days ago has laid bare the reality of police performance. The NCRB report, which compiles annual crime statistics across the country, also tracks general missing persons cases. In Uttarakhand, a total of 6,532 individuals were reported missing in 2023-24, comprising 3,277 men and 3,255 women. Out of these, the police managed to trace 2,701 missing persons, including 1,688 men and 1,013 women.

Across India, only two high courts fully staffed; Allahabad tops with 76 vacancies

NEW DELHI: High Courts across India are grappling with 330 vacant judge positions out of a total sanctioned strength of 1,122, causing mounting delays and affecting millions of litigants, according to the Department of Justice data as of September 1, 2025. The Allahabad High Court has the highest number of vacancies at 76, including 35 permanent and 41 additional judges. Other major High Courts with significant gaps include Bombay (26), Punjab and Haryana (25), Calcutta (24), Madras (19), Patna (18), Delhi (16), and Rajasthan (7). Uttarakhand has two vacancies, Tripura has one. Out of 25 states, only the High Courts of Sikkim and Meghalaya are functioning at their full sanctioned strength. Data from the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) shows over 67 lakh pending cases across High Courts and more than 60,000 in the Supreme Court. While the Supreme Court operates at full strength of 34 judges, including the Chief Justice of India, High Courts struggle with excessive workloads. Experts attribute the shortage to delays in the appointment process at both the Collegium and government levels, with repeated recommendations sometimes facing executive resistance or remaining unaddressed for months. Former High Court judges and legal experts say that the high vacancy rates in High Courts are a major obstacle to the justice system, causing delays and contributing to growing case backlogs. Retired Patna High Court Judge and legal expert, Justice Anajana Prakash, talking to the TNIE , said that the pendency of filling up judges' posts in HCs added to the woes of the disposal of cases, and as a result, ultimately, litigants suffer for this. The filling up of judges' posts in HCs should be addressed expeditiously. Until and unless the judiciary and the centre decide and deliberate upon this issue, the case disposal rate won't increase, which will ultimately affect the litigants at the state level, she said. Former Allahabad High Court Judge Justice S.R. Singh told the TNIE that judge vacancies in High Courts are a major concern, causing hardship for litigants. Vacancies of judges lead to an unnecessary workload for existing judges, which can compromise the quality of judgments and cause burnout. So a judicious choice must be there to appoint judges keeping in view the pendency across HCs, he said. The vacancies include 161 permanent posts and 169 additional (temporary) posts, the latter appointed by the President for a maximum of two years to address temporary workload spikes.

Dowry cases rise by 14pc in 2023; over 6,100 women killed: NCRB report shows

NEW DELHI: Cases registered under dowry-related crimes saw a 14 per cent increase in 2023, with more than 15,000 cases recorded across the country and over 6,100 deaths reported through the year, according to the latest report of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). The NCRB's 'Crime in India 2023' report said 15,489 cases were registered under the Dowry Prohibition Act in 2023 -- up from 13,479 in 2022 and 13,568 in 2021. Uttar Pradesh accounted for the highest number of cases under the Act at 7,151, followed by Bihar (3,665) and Karnataka (2,322). Thirteen states and Union Territories, including West Bengal, Goa, Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh and Sikkim, reported zero dowry cases during the year. A total of 6,156 people lost their lives in dowry death cases in 2023. Uttar Pradesh again topped the chart with 2,122 deaths, followed by Bihar 1,143. Dowry was listed as the motive in 833 murder cases across the country in 2023. Under the Dowry Prohibition Act, 83,327 cases were up for trial in 2023, with 69,434 carried forward from earlier years. The year also saw 27,154 arrests under the Act -- 22,316 men and 4,838 women.

Prime accused in September 19 ambush on Assam Rifles convoy in Manipur held, arms recovered

IMPHAL: The prime accused in the September 19 ambush on an Assam Rifles convoy in Manipur, which claimed the lives of two personnel, has been arrested, a top police officer said on Wednesday. A large number of arms and ammunition used in the ambush was also recovered based on the inputs provided by the accused, he said. On receipt of specific information about the presence of armed militants in the Kameng area, a team of district police Imphal West, Bishnupur, 33 AR and other security forces launched a special operation on September 24 at about 1 am. During the operation, one person, namely Khundongbam Ojit Singh (47) was apprehended... He admitted he is a bailed-out member of the PLA (banned People's Liberation Army)... He was directly involved in the ambush, Director General of Police, Manipur, Rajiv Singh, said in a statement. Two jawans of the Assam Rifles were killed and five others injured when a group of armed men ambushed a vehicle of the paramilitary force on September 19. Raids are underway to arrest the other culprits involved in the ambush, it added. He also revealed that he was arrested earlier on April 22, 2007... During further examination, it was revealed that he was directly involved in the ambush on September 19 at Sabal Leikai, Nambol (District Bishnupur) at about 5.30 pm against the 33 AR personnel. After firing at the AR personnel, he along with other persons fled towards the Loktak lake side and hid their arms and ammunition at a secret location, the statement said. The arms and ammunition recovered include INSAS and other rifles, besides magazines. On September 20, two persons were detained in connection with the ambush and a van, suspected to have been used in the attack, was recovered. The silver-blue coloured van was found at Mutum Yangbi in Imphal West district, around 10 km from the ambush site, police had said. Earlier, police and forensic personnel had recovered several fired cartridges from the ambush sspot, around 16 km from state capital Imphal. One of the injured personnel, N Nongthon, had told reporters: The assailants, numbering around four to five, suddenly opened fire at us. We did not immediately retaliate as it would have led to injuries to the public, since it was not an isolated area. The injured jawans hail from Assam, Sikkim, Meghalaya and Uttarakhand, besides Manipur. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla had condemned the attack on security forces. Manipur is under President's Rule since February, after the resignation of Chief Minister N Birendra Singh. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act or AFSPA is enforced in entire Manipur except in 13 police station areas of the five valley districts. Nambol, where the ambush occurred, falls in Bishnupur district and had no AFSPA coverage, officials had said. Ethnic clashes between Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur have left at least 260 people dead and thousands homeless since May 2023. People stage protests against ambush on Assam Rifles in Manipur, search underway for attackers

States salary bills balloon 2.5 times in 10 years : CAG

NEW DELHI: The salary bills of states have ballooned 2.5 times in the 10 years to 2022-23, reaching Rs 16.6 lakh crore, while subsidy bills have more than trebled to Rs 3.09 lakh crore, according to a report published by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. The State Finances Publication 2025 further shows that public debt raised by states grew 3.4 times over the same period to Rs 59.6 lakh crore. In FY 2022-23, states committed expenditure on salaries, interest payments, and pensions constituted a significant portion of their finances, accounting for about 43.49% of total revenue expenditure. Salaries formed the largest component of this spending. Expenditure on salaries, pensions, and interest payments as a percentage of revenue expenditure varied widelyfrom as high as 74% in Nagaland to 32% in Maharashtra. In 2022-23, 15 states reported committed expenditure exceeding 50% of their revenue expenditure, seven states between 4050%, and six states below 40%. Among southern states, committed expenditure accounted for 63% of Keralas revenue expenditure, 51% in Tamil Nadu, 42% in Andhra Pradesh, 41% in Telangana, and 33% in Karnataka. Subsidy spending accounted for 8.61% of states revenue expendituredefined as spending on day-to-day government operations and services that do not create assets or increase existing assets. In 2022-23, four statesPunjab, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Rajasthanspent more than 10% of their total expenditure on subsidies, with Punjab the highest at 17%. By contrast, in 10 states (Sikkim, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Uttarakhand, Manipur, Tripura, Mizoram, Kerala, Assam, and Goa), subsidies were below 2% of total expenditure. Arunachal Pradesh reported no subsidy expenditure. The report also shows that committed expenditure and subsidies together exceeded states own tax revenueat 102% in 2013-14 and 134% in 2020-21. States major revenue sources include own tax and non-tax revenues, grants-in-aid, and their share of Union taxes. Between 2013-14 and 2022-23, states average share in Union taxes was about 27% of total revenue receipts. In FY 2022-23, this figure remained unchanged at 27%. In 2022-23, 10 states together received 72% of the states share in Union taxes and duties. Uttar Pradesh (17.89%), Bihar (10.07%), Madhya Pradesh (7.86%), West Bengal (7.53%), and Maharashtra (6.33%) together accounted for 50% of devolved taxes. Among southern states, Tamil Nadu received 4.08%, Andhra Pradesh 4.02%, Karnataka 3.65%, Telangana 2.07%, and Kerala 1.93%. As of March 31, 2023, the total public debt for all 28 states stood at Rs 59.6 lakh crore, about 23% of their combined GSDP.

Sikkim To Get Its First Railway Station By 2027: Heres How It Will Look | Exclusive

As per blueprint document accessed by CNN-News18, Sikkim station will cost Rs 240 crore and will be a world-class railway station developed using state-of-the-art technology

Two GST Tribunal benches to start functioning in Kolkata soon: Official

Kolkata will soon have a Goods and Services Tax Tribunal. It will have two benches at Alipore. One bench will serve West Bengal. The other will serve Sikkim, Andaman and Nicobar Islands. An official said it will start next month. A revised GST structure may cause revenue loss for West Bengal.

Army troops undertake route march at 17,000 feet in Sikkim

Each soldier carried weapons, equipment, and survival gear, replicating battlefield conditions in high-altitude areas

Panchayat president killed in landslip in Sikkim's Gyalshing district

He was looking at the drainage system near his residence when the landslip occurred, the police said

From Periphery to Mainstream: High-Level Policy Dialogue at UN showcases Northeast Indias potential

India Water Foundation organized a dialogue on Northeast India's development at the UN Human Rights Council. Leaders discussed the region's progress in sustainability and inclusivity. They highlighted Sikkim's organic status and Assam's cancer care network. The discussion focused on cross-border trade, climate action, and regional cooperation. Participants emphasized Northeast India's role as a gateway to ASEAN and BIMSTEC economies.

Four family members killed in Sikkim landslide; child survives

GANGTOK: Four members of a family lost their lives and one child was critically injured after a landslide, triggered by relentless rainfall, struck their home in Sikkims Gyalshing district late Thursday night, police said. The tragedy occurred in the Upper Rimbi area around midnight while the family was asleep. A senior police official confirmed that the landslide completely destroyed the residence. Gyalshing Superintendent of Police Tshering Sherpa said that Sikkim Police, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel and local residents responded swiftly to the scene and launched a rescue operation despite the continuous downpour. Three of the six family members died on the spot. Two injured women were rushed to the Gyalshing District Hospital, where one of them later succumbed to her injuries, Sherpa said. A seven-year-old boy was pulled out alive and has been admitted to the hospital for treatment. Despite difficult weather conditions, the rescue team acted promptly with the support of the local community. It has been a risky operation, but we have done our best to save lives. The operation is still underway, said SP Sherpa, who also expressed his gratitude to all those who assisted in the rescue efforts.

Four dead, 3 missing after landslide in West Sikkim's Upper Rimbi

A landslide in Upper Rimbi, Sikkim, claimed four lives and three people are still missing. Rescue operations are underway. Earlier, the Indian Army and Navy's special forces concluded a joint diving exercise. The exercise took place at a high altitude. It involved combat night diving and cold-water dives. The training aimed to enhance operational readiness and jointmanship between the forces.

Sikkim landslide: Four killed, three go missing; rescue operation underway

The police team, in coordination with local villagers and SSB personnel, managed to evacuate two injured women from the affected area after constructing a temporary tree log bridge over the flooded Hume River.

4 Dead, 3 Missing After Heavy Rain Triggers Landslide In West Sikkim

The officials rescued two women from the affected area, out of which one succumbed to her injuries during treatment.

Sikkim landslide: Four dead, three missing in Yangthang; rescue operations under way

A devastating landslide in Upper Rimbi, West Sikkim, claimed the lives of at least four people and left three others missing. The tragedy struck early Friday in Yangthang constituency, prompting a swift response from police, SSB personnel, and local villagers. Rescue efforts are ongoing to find the missing individuals amidst challenging conditions.

India News Updates: Four dead, three missing in Sikkim landslide; one hospitalized in critical condition

Indian border security arrests 60 Nepal jailbreak inmates as protests leave thousands on the run

NEW DELHI: The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) that guards the India-Nepal border has caught about 60 people including a Bangladeshi national from various locations along the international front, officials said. Most of them are Nepalese who are suspected of having escaped during jailbreaks during the unrest in their country. SSB troops caught them from border points in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal over the last two days, the officials told PTI. They have been handed over to the respective state police forces and are being questioned, they said. A Bangladeshi national has also been apprehended from the Musharwa border post in Bihar's West Champaran district. He had managed to slip during a mob attack on the prison premises in Kathmandu. Two or three of those nabbed claim to be of Indian origin and this fact is being ascertained, the officials said. The SSB, which functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), guards the 1,751-km-long unfenced India-Nepal front on India's eastern side. It has deployed about 50 battalions, translating to about 60,000 personnel, in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal and Sikkim that share the front with Nepal. The force has stepped up vigil in the frontier areas and enhanced surveillance along the border in the wake of the protests in Nepal. The SSB is in touch with its Nepalese counterpart APF. They have also undertaken joint patrols with them apart from independent flag marches in the border areas to send across a message that the Indian side is ready to meet any challenge emerging from the recent developments in Nepal, a senior official said. Nepal has been assured of all cooperation and genuine nationals of the two countries, carrying valid IDs, are being allowed to cross the border, he said. Three inmates were killed on Thursday during clashes with Nepalese security personnel at a jail, while more than 15,000 prisoners are stated to have escaped from more than two dozen jails since violent protests erupted in that country. With the latest deaths, the number of prisoners who died during clashes with security forces has increased to eight since the violence erupted on Tuesday. The violent agitation forced prime minister K P Sharma Oli to resign on Tuesday, following which the Nepal Army imposed restrictions due to a serious law and order situation across provinces.

Nathula, Chola, Doklam gears up for India-China trade resumption, Sikkim eyes global tourism boost

India Watching Nepal Unrest With Caution, Prioritising Border Security: Sources | Exclusive

Sources say almost 2 crore Indians, mainly in Bihar, UP, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand, are directly linked to Nepal through family ties, trade relations, and religious connections.

Border guarding force SSB on high alert with additional deployment following turmoil in Nepal

NEW DELHI: Amid political turmoil in Nepal, authorities have issued an alert along the India-Nepal border, with Indias border guarding force, the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), having intensified vigilance. It is closely monitoring the situation to prevent any spillover of unrest into Indian territory, officials said on Tuesday. An alert has been issued on the India-Nepal border, considering the unrest in Nepal. Sashastra Seema Bal is keeping a close watch on the development, a senior MHA official said. The official also emphasised that the current heightened vigilance is preventive in nature and the situation remained under control. The officials also said that adequate deployment is in place at the border and strict checks have been implemented at several border outposts. Nepal's youth vs the 'nepo kids': A generation rises against a broken system Coordination with the local administration has also been intensified to ensure the smooth movement of people while ensuring security of the country, they added. It is to be noted here that the open India-Nepal border, stretching over 1,751 km across states including Uttarakhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Sikkim, allows unrestricted movement of citizens of both countries. The movement of people across the borders has been allowed since Independence to foster close socio-economic and cultural ties. But, at times when political unrest or protests erupt in Nepal, special security measures are taken by Indian authorities. In the past, border alerts have been issued during periods of internal turmoil in Nepal, including the 2015 Madhesi protests, which had affected trade and cross-border movement. The SSB is one of Indias Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), which function under the MHA with a strength of over 90,000 personnel. The protests in Kathmandu erupted following the Nepalese government blocked access to several social media platforms, including Facebook, claiming social media users with fake IDs were spreading hate speech and fake news, and committing fraud and other crimes via some platforms. Border districts of Bihar on high alert after violence erupted in Nepal

IMD Warns Of Heavy Rain In East, Northeast India This Week

Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim, along with Odisha, may see heavy rain this week, with the IMD warning of very heavy rainfall over parts of West Bengal and Sikkim.

Taxi body told to drop inapt Sikkim model demand

By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Sep 8: Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh on Monday dismissed the demand of the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA) to adopt the Sikkim model of restricting tourist taxis from outside the state, calling the comparison misleading. Sikkim is an endpoint state, while Meghalaya is a transit state. A large number []

From high alert in Gujarat to Punjab, IMD warns of heavy rainfall across key Indian states; check complete forecast here

Delhi experienced a weekend of humidity and light rain, while Punjab faces severe flooding with significant casualties and displacement. Gujarat's Vadodara is grappling with waterlogging after heavy rainfall. The IMD has issued alerts for heavy showers in East Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal & Sikkim, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.