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Sikkim & Beyond :
Bringing ordinary people and their extraordinary stories. nothing

16/05/2025

Kanchenjunga Samvad turns one today.

Exactly one year ago, on this very day, we began a humble journey with just one dream — to give voice to the unheard, to bring to light the lives and stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

What started as a small initiative has grown into a platform filled with meaning, heart, and hope — because of you. Your support, your encouragement, and your belief in our purpose have carried us forward through every challenge and every story told.

We didn’t have grand resources or loud promotions — we had intent, and we had you. Together, we have celebrated the strength of simplicity, the beauty of resilience, and the quiet heroism that thrives in the corners of our communities.

As we mark this first milestone, we promise this is just the beginning. We are coming back very soon — with more stories, deeper conversations, and newer dimensions of the people and places that make Sikkim so special.

On this proud occasion of Sikkim’s 50th Statehood Day, we extend our heartfelt wishes to every Sikkimese soul. May we continue to honour our roots and rise together.

Thank you for walking with us. Here’s to many more stories, many more voices — and many more years of Kanchenjunga Samvad.

With gratitude and love,
Team Kanchenjunga Samvad

26/03/2025

Sikkim Government Amends Motor Vehicles Taxation Act

The Government of Sikkim has enacted the Sikkim Motor Vehicles Taxation (Amendment) Act, 2025, introducing revisions to the taxation structure on vehicle registrations. The amendment, which received the Governor’s assent on February 26, 2025, and was officially notified today, aims to update additional tax rates applicable to various categories of vehicles.

Under the new provisions, additional tax rates for the registration of private and commercial vehicles have been revised based on their invoice cost. The rates range from 1% for vehicles costing up to ₹2 lakh to 6% for vehicles exceeding ₹50 lakh. Commercial vehicles, including taxis, goods carriers, and buses, will also be subject to revised tax rates, while electric and hybrid commercial vehicles will remain exempt from additional tax.

The amendment further introduces an additional tax for vehicles registered in other states and brought to Sikkim, as well as vehicles purchased from outside dealers when similar options are available within the state.

21/12/2024

16th Rholu Diwas, Venue- Rholu, South Sikkim Date - 21/12/2024

18/12/2024

Akhil Sikkim Ex-Servicemen Welfare Sang celebrates Silver Jubilee

Namchi, 18 December : The Akhil Sikkim Ex-Servicemen Welfare Sang celebrated its Silver Jubilee in a grand ceremony held at the auditorium of Alpine University, Upper Ghurpisey, Namchi today.
The occassion was graced by Mr Satish Chandra Rai, MLA 11 Namchi-Singhithang as the Chief Guest and Ms Anjeeta Rajalim as the Guest of Honour.
They were accompanied by Mr Hari Shankar Sharma Principal Chief Roads and Bridges Department cm Advisor, Veer Gorkha Ex-Servicemen Welfare Sang, Mr Bishnu Psd Sharma President (State) Ex-Servicemen Wing, Ms Hamal Rai Nursing Supreintendent Col (Retd). Mr Vijay Basnet Secretary Rajya Sainik Board, Mr Mani Kr Mangar Sub Inspector(Retd), Dr Sareena S***a Deputy Registrar Alpine University, Mr Bal Kr Rai Headmaster Chiyadara School, Ms Pinkila Bhutia, D/O Lt Ongdup Bhutia, land donor of Zilla Sainik Board.
While addressing during the occassion, Chief Guest Mr Satish Chandra Rai presented his gratitude towards the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, for his relentless work in implementing various beneficial schemes for Ex-Servicemen.
He also lauded the Sang for organising such a wonderful programme and presented his wishes for celebrating 25 years of formation.
Further, he congratulated everyone who showcased their talents and encouraged them to hone their talents more and further reach greater heights with their gifted talents.
He also talked about making 11 Namchi-Singhithang constituency a model constituency and work tirelessly in achieving this very dream. He also urged the general public to be cautious of beautifying the locality and work together in tandem with the concerned departments to keep their locality neat and tidy.
He also thanked all the Ex-Servicemen for their unwavering dedication to their nation and praised them for their bravery.
Earlier, the President of the ASESWS while addressing his speech, reflected on the 25-years of their journey and highlighted its achievements and contributions to the community of Sikkim.
He also expressed his gratitude towards the Chief Minister for launching and implementing various scheme for the welfare of the ex-servicemen.
During the programme, Ex-Servicemen hailing from diffrenet branches were felicitated for their services. Also
Ms Pinkila Bhutia, on behalf of her late father was also presented with token of appreciation.
It maybe mentioned here that the ceremony was also attended by the families of the Ex-Servicemen and various other dignitaries.

17/12/2024

Opening Ceremony of CM Mentorship Programme Winter Coaching Held at Labdang

The opening ceremony of the CM Mentorship Programme Winter Coaching for Class X CBSE Board Examination commenced today at Government Secondary School, Labdang, West Sikkim. The coaching programme, which runs from December 16, 2024, to January 25, 2025, aims to provide comprehensive guidance and support to students to help them excel in their board examinations.

The event was graced by Zilla Panchayat (Kongri Tashiding Territorial), Birendra Gurung, as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries present included Zilla Panchayat Member, Beena Manger, BDO Chongrang BAC, Panchayats from Kongri Labdang GPU and Karjee Mangnam GPU, BRC Education Department, Chongrang BAC, and Centre Incharge, Arjun Gurung. Resource teachers, parents, and enthusiastic students also participated in the programme.

The CM Mentorship Programme reflects the commitment of the government to uplift the education sector and ensure that students receive the necessary guidance and mentorship to perform well in their board examinations.

11/12/2024

SIDE EFFECTS OF LIVING TOGETHER

The International Human Rights Council (IHRC), Sikkim, recently addressed a sensitive case involving a young couple. The case revolved around a girl originally from Kurseong, currently working in Jorethang, and a boy from Kholaghari, Namchi, who were in a live-in relationship. After spending several years together, the couple parted ways. Unfortunately, during their relationship, private photographs and videos of intimate moments were recorded, which later became a source of public embarrassment.

Post-breakup, the boy allegedly shared these private materials on social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. The IHRC, in collaboration with Jorethang Police, intervened promptly. The accused was summoned to Jorethang, where he admitted to the crime. The Jorethang Police are now handling the case to ensure justice is served.

This incident serves as a cautionary tale, particularly for the youth, to avoid capturing or sharing private content that could lead to severe consequences. Such actions not only violate personal privacy but may also result in legal repercussions. Relationships should be based on trust and respect, and it is imperative to think responsibly before engaging in actions that might lead to regrettable situations.

Narendra Chettri
International Human Rights Council (IHRC), Sikkim

29/11/2024

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang flagged off the Hornbill Festival Nagaland contingent from Sikkim, which includes SHGs, bikers, car rally, media personnel, officials from Tourism, Culture and Commerce & Industries departments including the participants from various social organizations.

28/11/2024

The Inspiring Journey of Prerna Ama

-Kanchenjunga Samvad - ‘Ordinary People and their extraordinary stories ‘-

In a small village called Labing in West Sikkim, lives a remarkable woman known to everyone as Prerna Ama. The name “Prerna” means inspiration, and she truly embodies it.

Years ago, life presented her with challenges that would have daunted the strongest of hearts. But Prerna Ama was determined. With a family to support and dreams to fulfill, she started her journey by selling vegetables from her small farm. Each morning, she would wake up before the sun, tending to her crops, hand-picking the freshest vegetables, and carrying them to the local market.

Her days were long, and her earnings were meager at first. But her unwavering determination and hard work bore fruit—literally and figuratively. Over the years, her farm began to flourish, producing not just vegetables but also a variety of fruits that became popular in the markets of West Sikkim.

Through all of this, Prerna Ama held onto her dreams. One of them was to own a car. It wasn’t about luxury; it was about convenience and independence. She wanted to ease the burden of carrying heavy produce to the markets and to ensure her family could travel comfortably, especially in emergencies.

Day by day, coin by coin, she saved. She skipped comforts and made sacrifices, channeling every rupee into her dream. And then, one fine day, her relentless efforts paid off. Standing outside her home, gleaming under the soft sunlight, was a brand-new car—purchased entirely with her hard-earned income.

The moment was surreal. Her children clapped with joy, neighbors gathered to congratulate her, and Prerna Ama’s eyes sparkled with pride. It wasn’t just a car; it was a symbol of her resilience, determination, and success.

Today, Prerna Ama continues to inspire everyone around her. She still sells vegetables and fruits, greeting her customers with a warm smile and a story of hope. Her journey is a testament to the power of dreams and the strength of the human spirit.

In Labing and beyond, she is more than just a farmer or a seller—she is a beacon of strength for those who dare to dream. To Prerna Ama, we send our best wishes for even greater success and happiness. She reminds us all that with perseverance, anything is possible.

✍️ - Mohan K Karki

28/11/2024

Amar S***a Marathon Man of Sikkim came 5th place in BRUTE Trail Run Championship.

On 23rd November 2024, Amar S***a, popularly known as the "Marathon Man of Sikkim", secured 5th place in the 60 km BRUTE Trail Run Championship in the open male Category held in Basar, Arunachal Pradesh.
Reflecting on his performance, he shared that although he placed 3rd last year, he could manage 5th this year due to an injury.
This Trail Run is part of a National league, and participating in such events allows athletes to earn International Trail Running Association (ITRA) Points. Amar S***a explained that these points are crucial as they serve as one of the Criteria for the World Trail Championship 2025 selection trials, to be conducted under the aegis of the Athletic Federation of India. Representing India in the World Trail Championship would be a significant opportunity for him.
He also extended heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported him both financially and morally. He added that such continuous support remains essential for his future endeavours.

Amar S***a Marathon Man

28/11/2024

Government Initiatives for Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrimage Highlighted in Rajya Sabha

The Ministry of External Affairs, in response to a query raised by MP Dorjee Tshering Lepcha in the Rajya Sabha, outlined the steps taken to facilitate the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, an annual pilgrimage organized by the Government of India.

According to the Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, the pilgrimage is conducted every year between June and September through two routes: Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand (operational since 1981) and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim (since 2015). However, the Yatra has remained suspended since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions.

Key measures highlighted include:
• Infrastructure Development: Improved road connectivity to the Lipulekh Pass has been established to aid the movement of pilgrims.
• Support Services: GOI has implemented a streamlined registration and selection process via a dedicated website, bilingual helplines, and logistical support for accommodation, food, transport, and porters on the Indian side of the route.
• Emergency Protocols: Liaison Officers from Central and State governments accompany each batch of pilgrims, ensuring coordination with Indian and Chinese authorities for safety. Emergency helicopter services are also available in critical situations.
• Cultural and Environmental Preservation: While the government does not offer direct financial subsidies, it incurs expenditure on facilitating pilgrims, including identity cards and other essentials.

The Ministry further emphasized the role of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) in providing security and basic medical assistance during the pilgrimage. Efforts are ongoing to raise awareness among potential pilgrims, particularly in North-Eastern states like Sikkim.

DT Lepcha

28/11/2024

Northeast Regional Centre Of Indian Council Of Historical Research (ICHR) in Collaboration With Sikkim University Has Started A Two Days National Seminar on Indian Constitution And The Idea Of Ram- Rajya at Chintan Bhawan .

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