First in Sikkim : International Boxing Referee

FIRST IN SIKKIM SERIES: 27.05.23, BORDANG, WEST PANDAM - Pritam Shilal, a resident of Bordang, West Pandam, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first International Referee in Boxing from the state of Sikkim. This remarkable achievement comes after Pritam completed the IBA 1 Star R&J Course organized by the International Boxing Association, held in Kathmandu, Nepal, from April 3 to 8, 2023.

Pritam's journey began in 2018 when he completed the National level 1st Star R&J boxing referee course in Dergaon, Assam. He displayed exceptional dedication and talent, subsequently pursuing and completing the 2-Star R&J and 3-Star R&J courses. His expertise as a referee has been witnessed at various regional and national-level events, including the North East Olympics, East Zones, Elite Nationals, Khelo India, and National Games.

Recognizing his outstanding abilities, Pritam Shilal was honoured with the title of Best Referee at the Sub Junior Nationals held in JSW Bellary, Karnataka, in 2022. His passion for the sport extends beyond officiating, as he is also a former two-time bronze medalist at the Nationals and was awarded Best Boxer at the state-level boxing competition. Presently, Pritam is a boxing coach at the esteemed Singtam Boxing Club, where he imparts his knowledge and expertise to aspiring athletes.

Under Pritam's tutelage, his students flourished and achieved remarkable success in boxing. Ashwani Kumari Sapkota, one of his students, clinched a silver medal at the Sub-Junior National Boxing Championship held in Bellary, Karnataka, in 2022. Additionally, the same year, Ashwani secured a silver medal at the North Eastern Zonal Junior Boxing Championship conducted in Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh.

Another promising student of Pritam Shilal, Prava Gajmer, has been recently selected for the prestigious National Excellence of Excellence NBA in Rohtak, Haryana. Prava has already showcased exceptional talent by securing a bronze medal at the National Junior Boxing Championship held in Sonipat, Haryana, in 2021 and a bronze medal at the Youth Nationals in Tamil Nadu in 2022. Most recently, Prava claimed a bronze medal at the Khelo India Youth Games in Bhopal in 2023.

Pritam Shilal's unwavering commitment, perseverance, and dedication have paved the way for his own success and positively influenced the lives of numerous young boxers. His journey exemplifies the potential and talent in Sikkim's sporting community and inspires aspiring athletes across the state.

National Institute of Newar Language and Culture Celebrates Successful Cultural Event

Gangtok, Sikkim - The National Institute of Newar Language and Culture (NINLC) proudly presented the successful culmination of its first batch of students with a vibrant cultural event held at Manan Kedra on 24th June 2023. The event, named "Jhigu Tajilai," was organized by the students themselves and showcased the rich heritage and traditions of the Newar community. 

The NINLC's one-year-long course, initiated by the Sikkim Newar Guthi, aimed to preserve and conserve the invaluable Newar Language and Culture. This historic batch comprised Newar students from various parts of Sikkim, reflecting the institute's commitment to inclusivity and the wider representation of the Newar community. 

The highlight of the event was the enthralling performances in the Newar language. The talented students showcased traditional Newar dances, mesmerizing Newar songs, captivating recitations of Newar poems, and even shared their personal experiences at the institute, all delivered eloquently in the Newar language. The hostess skilfully conducted the program primarily in Newar, with occasional input in Nepali to ensure wider audience participation. 

The first batch of students, comprising Maeju Pratiksha Pradhan, Maeju Priya Pradhan, Maeju Annamika Pradhan, Maeju Deepika Pradhan, Bhaju Rupok Pradhan, Bhaju Dibhyata Pradhan, Bhaju Dewan Pradhan, Bhaju Pramod Pradhan, Maeju Karuna Pradhan, Maeju Premika Pradhan, Maeju Sona Pradhan, Maeju Sangita Pradhan, Maeju Kavita Pradhan, Maeju Chandrika Pradhan, Maeju Anjolo Pradhan, and Bhaju Deewan Pradhan, were the stars of the evening. 

The event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Bhaju DK Pradhan, President of the Board of Directors, NINLC, who served as the Thakali of the event. Executive members of the Sikkim Newar Guthi, included Bhaju Nirmal Pradhan (President), Maeju Hom Kri. Pradhan and Bhaju Mahendra Pradhan (Vice-Presidents), Bhaju Dr. Sushen Pradhan (General Secretary), Bhaju Mahendra Pradhan (Treasurer), Bhaju Jaslal Pradhan (Arjuna Awardee), Bhaju Surjay Pradhan (Resource Person to HCM), Bhaju Ratnamani Pradhan (PRO to HCM), Bhaju Bikash Pradhan (Principal - NINLC), and members of different Sakha, also graced the occasion.

National Florence Nightingale Awardee Smt. Ambika Pradhan Welcomed in Rangpo

RANGPO, SIKKIM - June 25, 2023: Smt. Ambika Pradhan, a Lady Health Visitor (LHV) at STNM Hospital, Sochakgang, was warmly welcomed by her family members and esteemed organizations at Atal Bridge, Rangpo upon receiving the prestigious National Florence Nightingale Award for the year 2023 in New Delhi from the President of India. 

Returning to Rangpo, Smt. Ambika Pradhan was greeted by a heartfelt reception organized by Shiv Lata Pariwar, named after the Late Siba Narayan Pradhan and Late Nirlata Pradhan. The event was attended by over sixty family members who celebrated her remarkable achievements. Smt. Ambika Pradhan, is the grand-daughter of Shiv-Lata and the daughter of Late Ghanashyam Pradhan, the eldest son of Shiv Lata. 

During the program, members of her family presented Smt. Ambika Pradhan with a shawl, a memento, and an Appreciation Letter, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the nursing profession. Additionally, members of Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti expressed their admiration by presenting her with a Letter of Appreciation. Newa Passa, a newar organisation of Rongli, played newa musical instrument to welcome the awardee.

In her address, Smt. Ambika Pradhan expressed her gratitude to the State Government and the Chief Minister of Sikkim for their support. She also extended her thanks to the Secretary, Director, and Joint Director of Nursing (Health and Family Welfare Department), Medical Superintendent, Additional Medical Superintendent, Director, Nursing Superintendent, CNO, and the entire STNM Hospital family and Sikkim Branch TNAI. She further acknowledged the fraternity of Rangpo PHC and PHSC staff and expressed her appreciation to everyone who congratulated her through phone calls, whatsapp messages and social media. She dedicated the award to all healthcare professionals in Sikkim.

Jaha Bagcha Teesta Rangeet I Amisha Lohar I Former National Song of Sikkim

Jas Lal Pradhan State Boxing Academy announced, Sikkim Newar Guthi thanks the Chief Minster of Sikkim

Sikkim Newar Guthi is very delighted to congratulate the legendary Olympian, International Boxer, Arjun Awardee Shri Capt. (Retd) Jas Lal Pradhan for announcement of Establishment of a Boxing Academy in his name by Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri P.S. Golay (Tamang) at 6th Youth Men’s National Boxing Championship 2023 held at Indoor hall, Palzor Stadium Gangtok. 

Words cannot even express our thanks, but Sikkim Newar Guthi is so grateful and sincerely expresses deepest gratitude to the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Sikkim Shri P.S.Golay for establishing a boxing academy in the name of Shri Jas Lal Pradhan.

Singtam Badminton Club Expresses Gratitude to the Hon'ble Chief Minister for Ownership of Badminton Hall

Singtam, 16th June 2023 - Singtam Badminton Club (SBC) extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Sikkim for granting ownership of the Badminton Hall at the top floor of the New Shopping Complex, located at Lal Bazaar Singtam. This significant announcement was made during a press conference held at the Badminton Court, Shopping Complex, Lal Bazaar, where Dr. JB Gurung, President of SBC, emphasized the club's commitment to the promotion of badminton in the state since 2019.

Since its inception, Singtam Badminton Club has continuously strived to elevate the sport of badminton, resulting in numerous achievements for both the club and players from Singtam and beyond. Notably, the club successfully organized two consecutive State Level Badminton Competitions, attracting renowned players from distant states such as Assam and West Bengal, as well as participants from neighboring Nepal.

Looking towards the future, Singtam Badminton Club has ambitious plans for further enhancing the growth and development of its players. In pursuit of these objectives, the club approached Shri Suresh Tamang, President of Singtam Nagar Panchayat, and requested ownership of the top floor of the New Shopping Complex specifically designated for the Badminton Hall. The club expresses deep gratitude to all the officials of Singtam Nagar Panchayat for swiftly accepting the proposal and providing ownership of the badminton Hall within a remarkably short period.

The Hon'ble Chief Minister, Shri PS Golay, has consistently highlighted the importance of sports and maintaining a healthy mind. The members of Singtam Badminton Club wholeheartedly embrace and support this vision. They are dedicated to fostering positive engagement and providing unwavering support to contribute towards a better Sikkim, reads the press release.

In a momentous celebration preceding the press conference, Singtam Badminton Club honored two exceptional players, Shri Pintu Gupta, and Shri Tseten Bhutia, for their remarkable achievements at the Ben Open Badminton Tournament. Shri Gupta emerged victorious as the Men's Singles Champion, while Shri Bhutia was acknowledged as the Most Promising Player of 2023. Both players were presented with khadas and tokens of appreciation by Shri Kiran Pradhan, Advisor of SBC, highlighting their well-deserved accomplishments.

Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti honoured with Prestigious Awards at Samvedna Certificate Distribution Ceremony, Namchi

Namchi, Sikkim - June 14, 2023 - Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti (SGSS) was honoured with a memento and certificate from the World Book of Records, London, and an International Life Saver Certificate from the National Integrated Forum of Artists & Activists (NIFAA), a national-level organization based in Karnal, Haryana. The esteemed accolades were presented to Krishna Chettri, President of SGSS, at the Samvedna Certificate Distribution ceremony held at Officer's Club, Namchi. 

The event, organized by NIFAA Sikkim State, celebrated the successful completion of the Largest One Day Blood Donation Campaign, acknowledged by World Book of Records, London that took place on March 23, 2021, in multiple locations across India, including Sikkim. The campaign witnessed an impressive participation of 1,27,675 registered individuals, resulting in 97,744 units of blood being donated. 

The ceremony was graced by esteemed guests and dignitaries, including Sushri Kavita Sapkota, Additional Political Secretary (APS), South to the Chief Minister of Sikkim; Sushri Anjita Rajalim, South District Zilla President; and Shri Tenzing Lamtha, Advisor, IT Department, Government of Sikkim. Each speaker highlighted the commitment of Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti towards the betterment of society. 

Expressing his gratitude for the prestigious recognition, Krishna Chettri extended his heartfelt appreciation to the members of NIFAA Sikkim State. He specifically thanked Praveen Pradhan, President of NIFAA Sikkim State, for organizing the grand event and conveyed his best wishes to them. At the ceremony, Krishna Chettri, along with Milan Sharma, Anand Lamichaney, and Suman Kami, represented the Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti, showcasing their dedication and support for the cause

Heat Wave Alert for Eastern India including Sikkim

SGREWA, Singtam Branch, Applauds Outstanding Singtam SSS Students for Board Examination Success

Singtam, Sikkim - June 9, 2023 - Members of the Sikkim Government Retired Employee Welfare Association (SGREWA), Singtam Branch, gathered together to honor and felicitate four outstanding students from Government Secondary School, Singtam, for their exceptional performance in the recently concluded Board Examinations 2023. The event took place at the premises of Singtam SSS.

In a heart-warming gesture, two school toppers from Class X and two from Class XII were presented with khadas, and bestowed with mementoes as a token of appreciation for their exemplary dedication and commitment to academic excellence.

Master Aditya Chettri (Humanities, 91.6%) and Miss Anjali Kumari (Commerce, 90.6%) emerged as the top two school toppers in Class XII. Meanwhile, Miss Sonia Kumari (94.4%) and Master Emmanuel Waiba (87.6%) secured the highest percentage scores in Class X.

Pic: Dharmu Singh Darnal

Recognizing the collective efforts of Government Secondary School, Singtam, in nurturing and guiding these talented students, the institution was also presented with a commemorative souvenir. The award was graciously received by Shri Suresh Pradhan, Principal of the school, on behalf of the entire faculty and staff.

Led by Shri LN Pradhan and other esteemed executives, the members of SGREWA demonstrated their unwavering support for education and their dedication to nurturing young talent within the community.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri LN Pradhan, a representative of SGREWA, stated, "We are immensely proud of these exceptional students and their remarkable achievements. Through this felicitation, we aim to inspire a generation of young learners to pursue excellence in their academic endeavors. We congratulate each student and express our gratitude to Government Secondary School, Singtam, for their exceptional guidance."

46 BC : A year with 15 months and 445 days

Long ago, before 45 BC, the Roman calendar was a bit of a mess. The year started in March and only had 10 months, which made it only 304 days long. Then, a Roman king Numa Pompilius added two more months, February and January, which made the year longer, about 354 or 355 days.

Pic: Amazing Planet

But there was still a problem. In 450 BC, they moved February to where it is now, between January and March. They also had to add an extra month sometimes to make up for the missing days. This extra month was called Intercalaris or Mercedonius, and it had either 22 or 23 days.

Later on, they realized that the years were too long. So, every eight years, they dropped seven days from the calendar to make it better. This made each year about 365.375 days long.

To fix all these issues, a calendar reform was needed. In 45 BC, Julius Caesar introduced the Julian calendar, which is the basis for the calendar we use today. But before they could start using it, they had to fix the old calendar. That's why in 46 BC, they had a year with 15 months and 445 days. It was called "the last year of confusion."

After that, they started using the new Julian calendar, which is much simpler and closer to the one we use today.

Suyog Shital Pradhan Congratulated on the Chess Tournament participation by Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti

Singtam, June 4, 2023 – Suyog Shital Pradhan, a nine-year-old student of Mt. Zion, Kid Zee Singtam, was congratulated by the Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti (SGSS) for his participation at the 2nd KP Guha Roy Memorial Chess Tournament in Jalpaiguri. He participated at the Under 10 category and Open category.

SGSS members, led by Krishna Chettri, President of SGSS, visited Suyog's residence to offer their congratulations and present him with khadas, expressing their best wishes for his future endeavors. SGSS has always come forward in the upliftment and encouraging every individual for a better society.

Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti Celebrates World Environment Day with Tree Plantation Drive

Singtam, June 5, 2023 – Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti (SGSS) enthusiastically joined hands with the global community to observe World Environment Day. The day was marked by a significant tree plantation drive, with over 200 saplings being planted along the scenic Rani Khola Walkway in Shantinagar, Singtam.

The program was graced by the presence of Shri Sanjeev Chettri, Range Officer from the Singtam Forest Department, who served as the Chief Guest. Krishna Chettri, President of SGSS, presented a traditional khada to the chief guest, while also highlighting the various activities undertaken by the organization as part of its green mission.

During his speech, the Range Officer praised the commendable efforts of SGSS and expressed his assurance of full support from the Singtam Forest Department. He acknowledged the significance of such initiatives in preserving and nurturing the environment for future generations.

Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti Welcomes New Khamdong Block Development Officer, Shri Sawan R Dhakal

Shantinagar, June 1, 2023 - The members of Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti (SGSS) warmly welcomed the newly transferred Khamdong Block Development Officer, Shri Sawan R Dhakal, in a short meeting held at the residence of Shri LN Pradhan in Shantinagar. The meeting, organized by Shri Krishna Chettri, President of SGSS, was attended by Smt. Deepa Chettri, Ward Panchayat, senior advisors,and other members of the organization. Members of SGSS offered khadas to the new BDO.

During the meeting, the Block Development Officer congratulated and presented khadas to two SGSS members. Smt. Tara Pradhan, a retired teacher, was felicitated by the Sikkim Teacher's Association, while Shri Shital Pradhan was promoted to the position of Head Master PS.

In addition, the SGSS Student Meritorious Grant 2023 was awarded to Sushri Upashna Chettri, a member of the organization. The grant, valued at six thousand rupees, was generously sponsored by Shri LN Pradhan, who has been contributing to the Meritorious Grant for the past three years. It is worth mentioning that the grant amount was increased by one thousand rupees this year.

During the meeting, Krishna Chettri, President of SGSS, submitted a letter to the Block Development Officer, highlighting various important issues for the development the society. These matters included the request for shopkeepers' license convenience, a proposal for the construction site of GPU Bhawan of 09-Chisopani GPU at Toppakahani Power House, and a suitable site under the Health Department near the National Highway. Additionally, the survey report for the extension of the Rani Khola Walkway to the new Singtam Hospital was also presented.

Shri Dhakal expressed his appreciation for the efforts of Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti and assured the community of his support in their endeavours for a better society. He suggested various future projects that could be undertaken to further enhance the development of the area.