https://www.facebook.com/102995231401305/

The Mountain News, Gangtok (2025)

18/08/2025

Press Release

TNA Alumni Association launches “Tenacian Times” & “Tenacian Talks 2.0”

Gangtok, August 18: The Tashi Namgyal Academy Alumni Association marked a milestone with the launch of its alumni networking magazine “Tenacian Times” followed by the “Tenacian Talks 2.0”. The event brought together alumni, faculty, students, and invited guests in a celebration of ideas, creativity, and community spirit.

The gathering began with a welcome address by the Master of Ceremony, Digcha Rai who set the tone for the afternoon by introducing the vision behind the Tenacian Talks series. Conceived as a platform to inspire and empower young minds, the series has grown into a cherished initiative under the Alumni Association. The discussion was steered by the Vice President of TNAAA, Dr Remon Chettri who moderated the session with insights from the distinguished panel consisting of the President of TNAAA, Gary Chopel the Director of TNA, Brig. MG Jacob and the Editor of Tenacian Times, Leonard Lefevre.

A key highlight of the occasion was the ceremonial release of the magazine “Tenacian Times.” The publication was unveiled by the panel amidst much anticipation. Following the release, the Director of TNA was felicitated by the President and Publicity Secretary of TNAAA Simon S***a in recognition of his continued contribution to the school. In addition, the IPSC Football Team was honored by the President and the Sports Secretary Tseten Bhutia of TNAAA for their dedication and achievements, symbolizing the alumni’s commitment to celebrating both academic and extracurricular accomplishments.

The formal segment of the program transitioned into a cultural interlude with a special musical journey presented by Tenacian Rakesh Verma from the Batch of 1985. His soulful performance added a nostalgic and celebratory note to the event.

The heart of the Tenacian Talks 2.0 lay in the two thought-provoking sessions led by accomplished alumni. Tenacian Priyadarshini Niroula, from the Batch of 2016, addressed the gathering on the theme of “Spaced Revisions,” offering fresh perspectives on learning, discipline, and personal growth. Her talk resonated with the younger audience, particularly students striving to balance academic rigor with self-care. This was followed by an inspiring address by Tenacian Bandana Tewari, Batch of 1987, who spoke on the theme “Mindful Living.” Drawing from her own experiences, she emphasized the importance of conscious living in today’s fast-paced world, reminding the audience that true success lies in balance, awareness, and inner peace.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks offered by the Sports Secretary of TNAAA, expressing gratitude to the panelists, speakers, performers, and attendees for their presence and support.

The launch of “Tenacian Times” and “Tenacian Talks 2.0” was not merely an event but a reaffirmation of the TNA Alumni Association’s mission to create meaningful platforms that celebrate heritage while empowering the present generation. The occasion embodied the ethos of TNA and highlighted the strength of its alumni network in carrying forward the school’s legacy.

Simon S***a
Publicity Secretary
TNA Alumni Association

18/08/2025

Four Athletes from Sikkim - Anita Chhetri, Norbu Bhutia, Swarnim Rai and Tenzin Deden Bhutia have been selected to represent India at the 57th Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship 2025, which will be held in Thailand from 18th to 25th August 2025. All four athletes are proud members of the Bodybuilder's Association of Sikkim.
On 18th August, the team landed safely in Thailand and are now gearing up for the grand event, which will take place on 22nd and 23rd August 2025.
This incredible opportunity has been made possible through the platform provided by the Bodybuilder's Association of Sikkim, which continues to work towards promoting Bodybuilding and Physique Sports in the State and helping athletes compete at the highest levels.

28/07/2025

AI, Drones and Sensors-to-Shooters: Indian Army Charts Future Warfare in Himalayas

East Sikkim |
28 July 2025

On the modern battlefield, the ability to see more, understand quickly, and act fast decides success. To meet this need, the Indian Army held Exercise DIVYA DRISHTI in the month of July 2025.

The exercise conducted in the high Altitude areas of East Sikkim, tested new technologies designed to improve battlefield awareness, real-time surveillance and quick decision-making. Troops from Trishakti Corps used a mix of ground-based systems and aerial platforms, including UAVs and drones, to carry out realistic scenarios.

A key highlight was the use of AI-enabled sensors linked with advanced communication systems. This setup ensured smooth and secure data flow between command centres, improving situational awareness and enabling faster, better decisions—creating a strong sensor-to-shooter link.

Lieutenant General Rakesh Kapoor, Deputy Chief of Army Staff, reviewed the exercise and its outcomes on behalf of Army Headquarters.

“Exercise DIVYA DRISHTI has been a great success. We tested cutting-edge technologies in realistic field conditions. The lessons will help develop future technologies, doctrines, and tactics across the Indian Army, making us ready for any adversary and any terrain,” said Lt Gen Zubin A Minwalla, General Officer Commanding, Trishakti Corps.

Exercise DIVYA DRISHTI is a key step in the Army’s journey to modernise. It shows the Army’s focus on technology and self-reliance, in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and the Decade of Transformation initiative.

PRO DEFENCE

24/07/2025

In Loving Memory
Late Daisy Lepcha
W/o R. P. Sharma
1959 – 2025

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Late Daisy Lepcha, who breathed her last on 24th July 2025.
She served as a Teacher at Enchey Government Senior Secondary School and retired from Upper Burtuk Government Junior Secondary School. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit and the many lives she touched throughout her lifetime.
Her funeral will be held on 25th, July 2025, proceeding from her residence below DIET College, Burtuk towards Jalipool Crematorium.

Nim Phuti Lepcha (Mother)
R.P Sharma (Husband)
Saurabh Sharma (Son)
Tshering Yanki Ladakhi (Daughter-in-law)
Palchen Lepcha (Brother)
Alina Lepcha (Sister)
Rebom Lepcha (Brother)
Myra Yangzom Sharma (Grand-daughter)

R. P Sharma- 94344 09949
Saurabh Sharma- 99333 02808

15/07/2025

State Government Announces State Honours for Padma Late Gadul Singh Lama (Sanu Lama).

06/07/2025

90th Birthday Message of Dalai Lama

On the occasion of my 90th birthday, I understand that well-wishers and friends in many places, including Tibetan communities, are gathering for celebrations. I particularly appreciate the fact that many of you are using the occasion to engage in initiatives that highlight the importance of compassion, warm-heartedness, and altruism.

I am just a simple Buddhist monk; I don’t normally engage in birthday celebrations. However, since you are organizing events focused on my birthday I wish to share some thoughts.

While it is important to work for material development, it is vital to focus on achieving peace of mind through cultivating a good heart and by being compassionate, not just toward near and dear ones, but toward everyone. Through this, you will contribute to making the world a better place.

As for myself, I will continue to focus on my commitments of promoting human values, religious harmony, drawing attention to the ancient Indian wisdom which explains the workings of mind and emotions, and Tibetan culture and heritage, which has so much potential to contribute to the world through its emphasis on peace of mind and compassion.

I develop determination and courage in my daily life through the teachings of the Buddha and Indian masters such as Shantideva, whose following aspiration I strive to uphold.

As long as space endures,
As long as sentient being remain,
Until then, may I too remain
To dispel the miseries of the world.

Thank you for using the opportunity of my birthday to cultivate peace of mind and compassion.

Tashi Deleg and with prayers,

Dalai Lama

5 July 2025

04/07/2025

In a decisive action against illegal drug trafficking, Sadar Police Station has seized 36.24 grams of brown sugar, from the possession of one Shiva Gurung, S/o Bhakta Bdr Gurung, originally a resident of Upper Sadam, currently residing at Bojhoghari.
The accused was found dealing drugs from a vehicle (Regd. No. SK01TA3479) parked at the Taxi Parking Lot, Tashiview Point, Gangtok.
The operation was led by PI Manish Gurung of Sadar PS and was conducted in the presence of Shri Mahendra Chettri, SDM. The contraband was seized on the spot, and legal proceedings have been initiated under the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act.
Sadar Police remains firm in its commitment to curbing the menace of narcotic drugs in the region and appeals to the public to remain vigilant and report any drug-related activities to the nearest police station.

Station House Officer (SHO)�
Sadar Police Station

02/07/2025

Statement Affirming the Continuation of the Institution of Dalai Lama

(Translated from the original Tibetan)

On 24 September 2011, at a meeting of the heads of Tibetan spiritual traditions, I made a statement to fellow Tibetans in and outside Tibet, followers of Tibetan Buddhism, and those who have a connection with Tibet and Tibetans, regarding whether the institution of the Dalai Lama should continue. I stated, “As far back as 1969, I made clear that concerned people should decide whether the Dalai Lama’s reincarnations should continue in the future.”

I also said, “When I am about ninety I will consult the high Lamas of the Tibetan Buddhist traditions, the Tibetan public, and other concerned people who follow Tibetan Buddhism, to re-evaluate whether or not the institution of the Dalai Lama should continue.”

Although I have had no public discussions on this issue, over the last 14 years leaders of Tibet’s spiritual traditions, members of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, participants in a Special General Body Meeting, members of the Central Tibetan Administration, NGOs, Buddhists from the Himalayan region, Mongolia, Buddhist republics of the Russian Federation and Buddhists in Asia including mainland China, have written to me with reasons, earnestly requesting that the institution of the Dalai Lama continue. In particular, I have received messages through various channels from Tibetans in Tibet making the same appeal. In accordance with all these requests, I am affirming that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue.

The process by which a future Dalai Lama is to be recognized has been clearly established in the 24 September 2011 statement which states that responsibility for doing so will rest exclusively with members of the Gaden Phodrang Trust, the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. They should consult the various heads of the Tibetan Buddhist traditions and the reliable oath-bound Dharma Protectors who are linked inseparably to the lineage of the Dalai Lamas. They should accordingly carry out the procedures of search and recognition in accordance with past tradition.

I hereby reiterate that the Gaden Phodrang Trust has sole authority to recognize the future reincarnation; no one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter.

Dalai Lama

Dharamshala
21 May 2025

29/06/2025

Impersonation Attempt Foiled: Man Pretending to Be Odisha CM Nabbed in Gangtok

A suspected case of impersonation was thwarted in Gangtok after the Chairman of SIMFED, Government of Sikkim, Tenzing Dorjee, received a suspicious phone call from an unknown individual claiming to be the Chief Minister of Odisha. The caller allegedly sought financial assistance for a needy person.

Sensing foul play, Dorjee promptly reported the matter to Sadar Police Station and, in a strategic move, invited the caller to Gangtok under the guise of offering help.

Following this, the Sadar PS team laid a trap and apprehended the suspect upon his arrival in Gangtok. The accused has been identified as 25-year-old Abhijit Mondal, a resident of Howrah, West Bengal. He has been detained for further inquiry.

Authorities have initiated an investigation into the matter, and further legal proceedings are underway.

26/06/2025

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang Golay Attends 40th Birthday Celebration of His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa at Rumtek

Rumtek, June 26: Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang Golay attended and offered prayers at the auspicious 40th birthday celebration of His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, held this morning at his main seat, Dharma Chakra Centre, Rumtek Monastery.

The ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Kyabje Zurmang Gharwang Rinpoche, further elevating the spiritual significance of the occasion.

25/06/2025

CUTE Sighting

A baby bear (cub) was spotted at Tumin Dhanbari in East Sikkim today. Locals quickly informed the forest department.

24/06/2025

Governor of Sikkim Pays Courtesy Call on President of India

Today, at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, the Governor of Sikkim, Shri Om Prakash Mathur, paid a courtesy call on the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu.

On this occasion, the Governor briefed the President on various developmental activities underway in Sikkim and the people-centric initiatives being undertaken by Raj Bhavan, Sikkim.

During the meeting, the Governor also presented a book titled “Utkarsh Yatra” to the President.

The book offers a comprehensive account of the key initiatives, programs, and outreach efforts carried out by the Governor over a six-month period since assuming office in Sikkim.

The Mountain News

18/08/2025

18/08/2025

28/07/2025

24/07/2025

15/07/2025

06/07/2025

04/07/2025

02/07/2025

29/06/2025

26/06/2025

25/06/2025

24/06/2025

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category