Sikkim Teachers Association Regu Block felicitates State Teachers' Awardee and State Commendation Awardee 2023

Sikkim Teachers Association (STA), Regu Block, felicitated Mr. Passang Gyalpo Sherpa, HM of Government Primary School, Dodachen, and Mr. Saran Das Rai, PRT of Government JHS, North Regu on 23rd September 2023. The duo were conferred with the prestigious State Teachers' Award and State Commendation Award by the Government of Sikkim, respectively.

The event was organized at Hotel Dhungel, Gambhirey Waterfalls, Sisney, Rongli. The program was chaired by Mr. Kumar Pradhan, Joint Director of Education Department, Rongli Sub Division, Government of Sikkim, as the Chief Guest. Other distinguished guests in the program were Mr. H. N. Mishra, Principal of Late Chandralall Sharma Government Senior Secondary School, Chujachen, Mr. L. N. Sharma, Principal of Government Senior Secondary School, Rolep, Mr. Kiran Rai, Headmaster of Government Secondary School, South Regu, Mrs. Passang Yanki Bhutia, HM of Government JHS, North Regu, along with different other school heads, in-charges, and teachers from the different schools of the block.

The event had the special presence of the executives from the STA (CEC); Mr. Kunzang Sherpa, President; Mr. T. P. Kafley, General Secretary; Mr. Gyaltsen Sherpa, Incharge, Grievances Cell; and Mr. Paul Lepcha, Office Secretary. Mr. N. T. Lepcha, STA, Pakyong District, Mr. Mahendra Thapa, Joint Secretary, and Mr. Bhim Pradhan, Publicity Secretary represented STA (DEC), Pakyong District.

The event also included song presentations by different teachers and dance performances by the students of Government Secondary School, Lingtam. Mr. I. B. Pradhan, Block President, welcomed the newly promoted HMs in the block on behalf of the STA, Regu Block Committee. A short interaction between STA (CEC) and BEC, sharing of grievances of teachers, and initiatives taken by STA Regu were also conducted at the end of the program.

The Chief Guest, Mr. Kumar Pradhan, Joint Director of Education Department, Rongli Sub Division, in his address, congratulated the STA, Regu (BEC) for organizing the event successfully. He further added that the active role played by the STA can yield the best results for the benefit of the students, teachers, and the society as a whole. He also informed the gathering that teachers must come forward with innovative practices and document, in particular, whatever activities they carry out for the betterment of the education field. Talking about the National and State awards, he also emphasized the need for the maximum number of nominations to be submitted by the teachers from the block.

Mr. Kunzang Sherpa, President of STA (CEC), acknowledged the efforts made by the STA (Regu BEC) for their service towards the development of education.

The event was hosted by Mr. Giridhari Dawari, Joint Secretary, and Mr. Bikash Gurung, Vice President II. The vote of thanks was proposed by Mr. D. B. Giri, Treasurer, at the end of the program.

Sikkim Newar Guthi's Historic Shradhanjali Programme

23.09.23: Sikkim Newar Guthi has spearheaded a ground breaking movement called the "Newar Madhumaha Shradhanjali Programme-2023" (in Newar Language: BIBHA WAHKA DHEKU). The program aims to stand-in connections, offer solace, share grief, and provide financial assistance to bereaved Newar families during times of loss. Sikkim Newar Guthi hopes to bring about a sense of unity among each and every member of the community and instill a sense of belonging to the Newars of Sikkim by being there in times of hardship.

The Dream project envisaged by Sikkim Newar Guthi (SNG) under the able leadership of Bhaju Nirmal Kumar Pradhan, the President of SNG was conceived a year before i.e 2022. After repeated meetings, discussions and reviews among the different Sakhas from all over Sikkim, the program was agreed upon unanimously in the Annual General Meeting at Auditorium, Namthang Senior Secondary School on 30th July 2023 and finally started on 18th Sept’23.

The program states that each Newa house of Sikkim would offer prayers and contribute Rs 20 in favour of the grieving family. This collection would be handed over to the bereaving family, personally by the members of the Central Executive Committee member, Coordinator and Sakha executive committee members along with a Samvedna Patra.

There is nothing one can say to alleviate the pain of a family which is grieving the loss of a loved one; but the initiation of such a program can certainly provide comfort and support for them during such a difficult time. In this way, each and every Newars of Sikkim can grieve the loss of a fellow member of their community and stand in solidarity with the family of the deceased.

On September 18th, 2023, a team comprising Nirmal Kr. Pradhan, President of SNG, Mahendra Kumar Pradhan, Vice President, Dr. Sushen Pradhan, General Secretary, Basant Pradhan, Chairman State Chief Coordinator, Sunil Pradhan, Youth Secretary, Sishir Pradhan, Publicity Secretary, Binita Pradhan, CEC, and I K Pradhan, CEC, along with Youth Core Members paid a visit to the bereaved family of Karna Bahadur Pradhan from the Timburbong Sakha in Soreng District, where his mother, Late Subha Maya Pradhan, aged 103 years, had passed away. Dr. Sushen Pradhan, the General Secretary of SNG, briefed the gathering about the program and observed a two-minute silence to remember the departed soul.

Nirmal Kumar Pradhan, President of SNG, and Basant Pradhan, Chief Coordinator, emphasized the significance of the program. K B Pradhan, President of Soreng Sakha, and his team provided full cooperation to the central SNG and extended their best wishes to the SNG CEC team for their continuous efforts to bring all Newars of Sikkim together. A Samvedna Patra, along with Rs. 19,280/- (nineteen thousand two hundred and eighty rupees) was handed over to the bereaved family by Nirmal Kumar Pradhan, President of SNG, and Basant Pradhan, Chairman State Chief Coordinator, along with other members of SNG.

Singtam Fountain Point Witnessed the Grand Inauguration of Indian Swachhata League 2.0

17.09.23: Singtam Fountain Point witnessed a momentous event as the Indian Swachhata League 2.0 commenced with great enthusiasm on its inaugural day.

The event, organized as part of the Swaccha Bharat Mission program, was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Smt. Radha Pradhan, ADC, RDD Department; Shri Himmat Rai, Joint Secretary, Swaccha Bharat Mission, State Coordinator; Shri Sawan Dhakal SD, BDO, Khamdong BAC; Shri Suresh Tamang, President, Singtam Nagar Panchayat; Shri Ujjwal Pandey, MEO; Shri SB Manger, SHO; Shri Krishna Chettri, President of Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti, among others.

The event commenced with an inspiring address from the key dignitaries, emphasizing the critical importance of cleanliness and environmental sustainability. Smt. Radha Pradhan, Shri Himmat Rai, and Shri Suresh Tamang urged the community to unite in the noble cause of cleanliness.

Shri SR Dhakal, BDO, administered the solemn pledge. This event also saw the active participation of members from Chisopani GPU, Singtam Bihari Manch, Singtam Truck Driver Association, Singtam Nagar Panchayat, and various other community groups.

Newar Communities Celebrate Bhimsen Puja and Jatra in Rongli, Sikkim

10.09.23, Singtam - The town of Rongli came alive with the spirited participation of Newar communities from various corners of Sikkim in the joyous Bhimsen Puja and Jatra festivities. The event, marked by exuberance and cultural fervor, witnessed a procession of Newar community members clad in traditional attire, dancing joyfully with Lakhey dancers from Bhimsen Mandir to the Melatar Community Hall in Rongli. The event was organized by Shri Bhimsen Maharaj Mandir Sanrakshan Samiti, Rongli, and supported by Newa Passa, newar organization from Rongli. 

The second phase of the program, held at the Community Hall, featured a series of cultural performances and a felicitation ceremony. Praveen Pradhan, President of Shri Bhimsen Maharaj Mandir Sanrakshan Samiti, Rongli, extended a warm welcome to the attendees. Rudra Narsing Sakya, Chief Patron of the committee, eloquently spoke about the rich cultural legacy of the 121st Bhimsen Jatra at Rongli.

Students from Chujachen SSS, Rorathang SS, Rongli SS, and Sudunglakha Sakha Guthi mesmerized the audience with their enchanting Newar cultural dance performances.

The event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests including Rimpoche Shri Atul Shakya and associates, Gubaju Shri Alankar Shakya and team, along with Smt. Rama Tamang, Chairperson of the Sikkim Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SPCR), who presided as the chief guest.

Noteworthy attendees included Smt. Prava Pradhan, Zilla Upadakshya, Pakyong District;  Shri Jaslal Pradhan, Olympian and Arjuna Awardee; Shri Uttam Pradhan, Nepali Cine Star; Shri Bikram Pradhan, former MLA, Shri Prashant Pradhan, Chairman, NHPC, Shri Nirpud Grunig, Shri Gagan Gurung, SKM Youth Secretary, Shri Damber Pradhan, SKM Vice-President (CEC); Shri Nirmal Pradhan, President, Sikkim Newar Guthi; Shri Bikash Pradhan, Culture Officer, Culture Department, Government of Sikkim; and Shri Mohan Pradhan Neeraj, Nepali literary writer, members of Zilla Panchayat and Panchayat (Chujachen Constituency), representatives from different communities among others, who added grace to the occasion.

A highlight of the event was the honouring of the 2023 National Florence Nightingale Awardee, Mrs. Ambika Pradhan (Pramila Pradhan), daughter of late GS Pradhan, Rongli by members of Newa Passa, a Newar organization from Rongli.  A photo frame of Shri Bhimsen was also presented to the Chief Guest.

Addressing the audience, Smt. Rama Tamang, the chief guest, lauded the grandeur of the Bhimsen Jatra celebration and conveyed the heartfelt message from Smt. Krishna Maya Rai, wife of the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, who, unfortunately, couldn't be present.

The organizing committee extends heartfelt gratitude to the representatives of Sikkim Newar Guthi, Presidents and representatives of various Newar Sakha Guthis, Dhimey team Rhenock Sakha, Newa Passa and Lakhay team, as well as officials and staff from different departments, all the social Medias whose esteemed presence added to the auspiciousness of the occasion.

Shri Indra Pradhan delivered the vote of thanks, and the program was ably hosted by Miss Smriti Pradhan and Dr. Arun Pradhan.

Mount Zion Kidzee School, Singtam, Shines Bright at Mathura Open National Tae-Kwon-Do Championship

 06.09.23, Singtam : The students of Mount Zion School, Kidzee, Singtam, representing Team Sikkim, have emerged as true champions at the Open National Tae-Kwon-Do Championship held in Mathura on August 26 and 27, 2023. Their exceptional performances yielded an astounding tally of 11 Gold, 3 Silver, and Bronze medals.

This prestigious event, featuring three intense categories: Poomsae, Kyorugi, and Freshers, witnessed our young athletes exhibit unparalleled skill, determination, and sportsmanship.

Here are the shining stars and their impressive achievements:

PRAYAG DHAMALA (Under 23 kg) : Kyorugi: Silver Medal, Poomsae: Bronze Medal

EDENLA BHUTIA (Under 24 kg) : Kyorugi: Gold Medal, Poomsae: Silver Medal

SANGAY CHOPHEL SHERPA (Under 21 kg): Kyorugi: Gold Medal, Poomsae: Gold Medal

ANCH BISWAKARMA (Under 29 kg): Kyorugi: Gold Medal, Poomsae: Gold Medal

SNEHA CHETTRI (Under 32 kg): Kyorugi: Gold Medal, Poomsae: Gold Medal

ANMOL RAI (Under 49 Kg): Kyorugi: Gold Medal, Poomsae: Gold Medal

DEEPSHIKA SHARMA (Under 32 Kg): Kyorugi: Silver Medal, Poomsae: Gold Medal

JASMINE BHUTIA: Poomsae: Gold Medal

Mount Zion Kidzee School extends heartfelt congratulations to each of these extraordinary young athletes for their outstanding achievements. These students have not only brought honour to our school but have also made the entire state of Sikkim proud.

We would also like to express our deepest gratitude to our dedicated coach, Mr. Sanjay Subba, whose unwavering guidance and support have been instrumental in nurturing these talented individuals, reads the press release.

Gratitude for the Sikkim State Commendation Certificate Award 2023

05.09.23: I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the State Government of Sikkim, CEO Madam, Samagra Siksha AD Sir (Gangtok District, Education Department), AD Sir, AEO Sir, and CRC Madam and staff (Education Department, Khamdong BAC) and the selection committee of the Award for honouring me with the prestigious Sikkim State Commendation Certificate Award 2023 during the Teachers Day Celebration held at Manan Kendra, Gangtok.

(In Picture : Shri Prem Singh Tamang, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Kunga Nima Lepcha, Hon'ble Education Minister of Sikkim and Shri Ravindra Telang, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Education Department)

On this auspicious occasion, I would like to express my thanks to my former colleagues, students, and Headmasters of Burung JHS, Dalapchand SS, and Sakyong Chisopani JHS where I had rendered 18 years of service. It was a privilege to work with you all and contribute to improving our schools and students.

I'd like to thank my colleagues at Dongeythang Primary School for their warm welcome and for making me part of the team so easily. I have big dreams, and I'm confident that together, with your support, we'll help our students excel.

This recognition would not have been possible without the invaluable guidance, unwavering support, and inspiration I received from various mentors over the years. They instilled in me a profound curiosity and a deep love for learning, qualities that I carry with me every single day. I also want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my family for their continuous support and guidance.

Heartwarming Farewell: A Look Back on 10 Years at Sakyong Chisopani JHS

02.09.23: In a heart-warming and emotional atmosphere, Mrs. Nirmala Sharma Madam and I participated in our farewell program at Sakyong Chisopani JHS. It was a truly special moment when I had the honour of receiving a Letter of Appreciation from the esteemed hands of Shri PB Subba, our Headmaster. What's more, I was absolutely delighted to be presented with a captivating and exquisitely hand-drawn portrait of myself, a true work of art, gifted by Shri Arbin Chettri, the talented GT Science student of the school.

The Khadas and thoughtful gifts offered by my fellow staff filled me with deep emotions. The individual gifts brought by some of my dear students left me speechless, overwhelmed by their kindness and thoughtfulness. I was delighted to see the presence of Shri LN Sharma, the former Incharge of the school, with whom I had a long and meaningful association during my tenure at the school. The program was made even more special with the attendance of esteemed SMCs – Shri Zigden Sherpa, Shri Done Tshring Rai, and Shri Badal Pariyar; Smt. Deepa Chettri, Panchayat and her officials and Shri Uttam Gurung. I was particularly pleased to have Shri Parsu Gurung, one of my former students, join us on this significant day.

I am truly grateful to my former school for organizing such a heartwarming farewell program, even though I had to cut it short due to an unavoidable commitment at the Manan Kendra program, as requested by the Education Department.

I had the pleasure of immersing myself in the cultural program, and it was an absolute joy. All the cultural performances, including the enchanting welcome songs, the harmonious group songs, and the soul-stirring performances by Miss Rajani Gurung and Master Rohan Bishwakarma, left me spellbound. Witnessing my students shine on stage filled me with immense happiness and pride.Thank You Mrs. Bhawana Pandey Madam and Mrs. Juna Pradhan Madam for the welcome speech and vote of thanks. 

Blessings to my students, best wishes to the school staff, and wherever I am, whatever I do, I shall always remember my best 10 years I spent at this school. 

Mt. Zion Kidzee Singtam School patriciates at Br. Eric Rudum Quiz Competition, Darjeeling

The quiz team from Mt. Zion Kidzee Singtam School embarked on an enriching journey to Darjeeling, where they participated in the Br. Eric Rudum Quiz Competition held at St. Joseph's School, North Point.

The team of Deepshika Gadaily, Tanishka Pradhan and Tsheoshang Chemi Tamang represented the school escorted by Sisir Chettri, Chairman and Anisha Mukhia, Principal of the school.

This prestigious event was organized by St. Joseph's North Point School had a participation of 42 schools.

32nd Nepali Bhasa Diwas observed

21.08.23: The 32nd Nepali Bhasa Diwas was celebrated by the Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti with enthusiasm. The event took place at the Sports Hall of Archigos Preparatory Academy in Shantinagar. Shri LN Pradhan, President of Sikkim Government Retired Employees Welfare Association, Singtam Branch, was honored during the event. The day featured poetry recitations, speeches, and cultural dances.

Krishna Chettri, President of SGSS, extended khadas to the Chief Guests and other attendees. He delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the significance of the day. Pradhan Neeraj Mohan, a distinguished Nepali literary figure from Singtam and Sikkim, presided over the event.

Prominent guests from Singtam and beyond, such as Surya Prasad Kharel, Mahesh Dahal 'Sangam,' Nandu Dutraj 'Nisha,' Kripesh Singh, Anand Chettrii, Lokesh Mukhia, Latika Poudhyal, and Shital Pradhan, recited beautiful Nepali poems. Other attendees included Sharmila Sunar, Headmistress of Sakhukhani Primary School, as well as singers Amisha Lohar and Norzang Tamang.

Nishant Dulal discussed the role of Sikkim in recognizing the Nepali Language. Sundar Rai and Santosh Bardewa, well-known social workers, highlighted the importance of language recognition.

Mohan Pradhan 'Neeraj' praised Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti for promoting the Nepali language and commended the diverse performances of the day. LN Pradhan, the chief guest, expressed gratitude to SGSS for the felicitation and recounted Singtam's support for the movement in the past.

INDRA JATRA 2023 TO BE CELEBRATED IN EIGHT DAYS LONG EVENT IN GANGTOK, SIKKIM

Gangtok, 16/08/2023: “Indrajatra” the biggest festival for the “Newar” community is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the State every year. This year, the celebration would be eight days long Kumari Puja with three days of various activities and programmes. The Celebrations are to be organised with great pomp and glory in the State capital, Gangtok from 22nd to 29th September 2023. 

A high-level coordination meeting was held at Newar Bhawan, Sichey, Gangtok on 16th August 2023 to finalise the programmes and events. The meeting was chaired by Shri Nirmal Kumar Pradhan, President of Sikkim Newar Guthi, He addressed the meeting house and stressed the need to organise the Indra Jatra event in a grand manner to showcase our rich cultural heritage and traditions. It was finalised that the Indrajatra 2023 puja and rituals would be carried out for entire 8 days with 7 days of puja including Lingo and Dagini puja at Newar Bhawan leading to the final day of Indra and Kumari puja on 29th September 2023 at Bhanu Park, Gangtok.

On the 6th and 7th day i.e. on 27th and 28th September 2023, exhibition stalls and formal programmes are to be organised at M.G. Marg, Gangtok. NewaKhaja Ghar with Aiela &Sagun, 84 Byanjan/Food Display, Photo/ Art Gallery, Traditional Music Instruments & Costumes, Aachar, Handicraft and handloom exhibitions, exhibitions by our young entrepreneurs, etc. are to be organised at MG Marg, Gangtok. On 28th September 2023, finals of various competitions such as BhajuMaejuSikkim as well as Traditional Newar Dance and Music Competitions were to be held at Manan Bhawan, Gangtok. Appreciations and felicitation to the newar achievers of Sikkim will also be one of the leading programmes of the day. 

The final day event i.e. on 29th September 2023 would begin at Bhanu Park with the worship of various deities including Lord Indra followed by the chariot (rath) procession of Kumari, the living Goddess accompanied by drum beats, masked dance performances (Lakhey) and various dance performances. Various Cultural programs will also be organized by the presentation of the Lakhey dance - a popular Newar dance along with the play of Dhimey and Daa which are traditional Newar musical instruments, etc. This would also be an attraction to tourists from India and abroad visiting the State. 

The procession will end at Manan Bhawan which is scheduled to host cultural programmes, award distributions, felicitations, the launch of the Annual Newar magazine “Smarika” and “PAU” and finally culminating the celebrations with a Grand Musical Gala event. Large numbers of Newars from all over the State and outside are expected to gather for this auspicious event at the State Capital. All the events and programmes would be fully eco-friendly without using plastics and other non-biodegradable substances. 

During the course of the meeting, the IndraJatra Committee was also formed with Shri Mahendra Pradhan, (Treasurer) as Chairman, Shri Mahendra Pradhan, (Vice President) and Smt. Hom Kumari Pradhan as Vice-Chairpersons, Dr. Sushen Pradhan as General Secretary and Smt. Rohini Pradhan as Treasurer and Shri Swagat Pradhan as Assistant Treasurer. Various other sub-committees were also formed for various assignments and responsibilities. The meeting ended with a vote of thanks by the Vice-president, Sikkim Newar Guthi.