i have the book, 'The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari'
and today i just saw another book with a title - 'I bought the Monk's Ferrari'
Ha!

'Ka Bata' by G.O.P

                                                         

here's the music video titled 'Ka bata',  a first Nepali single from Gangtok based all-girls band, Genesis of Pink.

Now that you have seen it and got the notifications .....WATCH IT/ LISTEN IT!

CBSE State topper, Kritika Sharma shares her success story

With a score of 96.6% in CBSE Class XII, Kritika Sharma is on cloud nine. A   travel and dance enthusiast and a talented student, this Holy Cross School’s student believes that some serious effort needs to be given to achieve the success. In a brief conversation with Samir hang (me), Kritika talks about her success mantra and future plans.

Samir: Congratulations on being the state topper. What was your success mantra?

Kritika: Thank u very much. It is very important for you to set a realistic schedule. Set targets that are achievable and try to achieve these targets even if you have to burn the midnight oil. I studied regularly with frequent revisions, sometimes you have to sacrifice those little unproductive activities and dedicate maximum time towards study. I also got deep into NCERT books and extremely thorough with the chapters, self studies being the topmost priority.

Samir: How’s has been the role of parent’s and teacher’s in your success?

Kritika: Parents and teachers played a vital role in my success. They were like the strongest pillar of support and encouragement for me. Whenever I needed, they were always there. I want to thank them, both my parents and teachers for their guidance which resulted into this success.

Samir: What advice will you give to students who will take class XII exams next year?

Kritika: Like I said, class 12th is very important for your career. Hence, I would recommend that you take your studies seriously and stay focused towards your goal. Your performance in class XII will have a great impact on your career and future so the best effort needs to be given. Once you score well in your class XII and entrance exams, your career will be set. Also try to listen to your teachers when they're telling you something. However, do not take unnecessary stress. Relax and give yourself breaks from time to time. Start the preparation early by maintaining a study schedule n stick to it. But make sure u get time for proper rest as well, good hour of sleep. You should spend some good leisure time as well but make studies your topmost priority. Start preparing from the start to achieve success, little bit of sacrifices are necessary.

Samir: Do you think it is difficult for Science students to score well in CBSE Class XII exams as they have to prepare for entrance exams also?

Kritika: Class XII can be very stressful as students have to prepare for both Board exams as well as entrances. However, one must make a timetable and stick to it. Sometimes the pressure is quite high but as I said earlier if you start preparing little by little right from day one, it will get lot easier in the later period.

Samir: Do you think coaching classes are helpful in achieving the desired score?

Kritika: Yes, coaching classes were very helpful. I never took tuition during school days. I took coaching only in winter and from my own school teacher for computer and physics. I believed in self study and that helped me the most. When I used to encounter problems, I used to get it cleared within next day. In coaching classes u get exposed 2 whole lots of questions, and because you solve different types of questions you get very good practice. Coaching institutes help you till an extent as they give you study material, practice papers, etc. However, how you perform in exams actually depend on your own efforts.

Samir: What are you looking forward to?

Kritika: I am looking forward to get admission in a renowned medical college. It would be like a dream come true for me if I manage to get admission in AIIMS, JIPMER or NEIGRIHMS. I have been doing preparations.

Samir: You are very bright in the studies, your performance says so. What do you plan to become in the future?

Kritika: I want to become a doctor and serve mankind and contribute towards healthy Sikkim. I want to pursue MBBS, then MD, most probably in Gynecology.

Samir: What advise will you give to students who have not fared well in their exams?

Kritika: Even if you have not performed well in Class XII exams, it is not the end of the world. Do not be disheartened, take this as an eye opener and start studying from now itself. Always be ready to approach teacher whenever in doubt.  There is always the next time. The world is full of opportunities for you, you should just be ready to work hard and stretch your arms to reach for them. I will like to wish all of them Good Luck!

Parnassus in the hills: North-East writers to Converse at Rachna

Friends at Rachna will be organizing the 6^th chapter of its ‘Converse’, a ‘Word of Mouth’ event, on April 20^th at its bookstore cum coffee house in the capital. The event will cover the Northeast writings in English with readings by senior poets and writers from Sikkim and the rest of the North East states. The event will also facilitate book signings including the possibility of a casual and friendly meeting with the eminent authors.
The event is mainly organized to initiate connections with the North East English writings. Every year, the great writers and poets meet and have a good time together, reading each other’s works. The event also plays an important role in highlighting new poets and writers to a larger audience.

             This year`s event will feature the eminent Padmashree writer and poet, Mamang Dai of Arunachal Pradesh for whom this will be the third time she will be participating in the event. Dhruba Hazarika, another Penguin published writer from North East India and Robin Ngangom, a renowned poet and Professor of English Department, NEHU, Shillong will also occupy the guest list. Others include former member of Great Society and Minister of State, Meghalaya,  RG Lyngdoh,  Sonam Tshering from Darjeeling, Mitra Phukan, Nabonita Kanungo, Cherrie Chhangte, Sanga Ralte and Ravi Ksh. From our neck of the woods, Yeshey D, Rajendra Bhandari, Guru T Ladhaki, Chetan Shreshtha and Pankag Thapa will be representing the state.

The first Converse event took place in 1999 and after a slack ten year period, it picked up with rejuvenation again in 2009 at Rachna. Since then, Rachna has been continuously organizing it annually and the event is getting popular every year and attracting great writers and poets to the capital.

road covered with hailstones in Gangtok

St. Thomas the Apostle Church observing Good Friday with “Way of the Cross”, “Kissing of Cross” and “Holy Communion”. 

Artists draw their imaginations on the canvas during the second day of the National Art Festival .

The students from Sikkim were tremendously fortunate to listen to the immortal teachings of His Holiness, whose effects will be remembered by each young mind in years to come and will certainly make a huge positive impact in their lives. Dalai Lama`s down-to-earth humanity whose charismatic teachings coupled with funny anecdotes, his wisdom (not hackneyed through time) every time fresh to every listener, will reverberate in the hearts of students. To exemplify this fact, when he was asked today if he believes himself to be a living God, he smilingly answered, “Nonsense, I`m just a Tibetan Buddhist monk.”

HH Dalai Lama consecrated statue of Lord Buddha

The dream of many came true today when His Holiness, the XIV^th Dalai Lama consecrated the statue of Lord Buddha at Tathagata Tsal, amidst scores of devotees. In the eminent presence of the Governor of Sikkim, BP Singh, Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling, council of ministers and host of other dignitaries, the Tibetan spiritual leader performed the consecration ceremony.

After the ceremony while addressing the gathering HH was all praise for the CM for conceptualizing the place and drew comparisons with the great emperor Ashoka for his endless devotion towards spreading Buddhism and tirelessly working towards promoting Buddhism. He also expressed his utmost happiness and satisfaction to be at Tathagata Tsal on this momentous occasion.

“Chief Minister Pawan Chamling has done many good works in the state and I pray that all his plans and works succeed in future”, said the Dalai Lama. He thanked the CM for taking initiative to establish the statue of Lord Buddha in Ravangla, a beautiful place where people of different communities have been residing since many years.

“This place is not only for Buddhists but for everyone. Anyone can come here and take pleasure” said HH and added, “Now time has come to built Buddha in our hearts”.

He said that people should not follow others but learn themselves. There is lot to be learned he said and added that he is already nearing late seventies but still enjoys learning.

HH, who had visited Sikkim in 1956 through Nathu-la border recalled his past memories about the state and said the state has been gradually developing which is wonderful.

“We need material development but at the same time our mind should also develop. You cannot buy healthy mind, it must develop through mental training. Only prayer and faith will not bring peace and happiness, it should be developed through study and mental training”, asserted the Dalai Lama.

The Governor, B.P Singh who also addressed the gathering thanked HH for blessing the place and the people of Sikkim with his eminent presence and also highlighted on the teachings of Lord Buddha. He also showered his praise to the CM for conceptualizing the place and coming up with such a beautiful idea.

Later in the afternoon, the teaching of ‘Thirty Seven Practices of Bodhisattva’ was given by HH.

Prayag United’s Ranti Martins downs USFC

A solitary goal claimed by Ranti Martins, coupled with United Sikkim’s poor run surely renders the rest of the contest a formality. The Goan club made heavy weather of holding at bay the USFC who felt aggrieved they had nothing to show for their defiant endeavors.

Ranti Martins, who shattered USFC in their yard on November 10^th last year with his five goals in 10-1 victory, destroyed the failing USFC at home too today, though this time it was only one.

The home team dominated the first half in terms of possession, and they were rewarded many opportunities but they have not been able to find the net since last three games.

While it looked like the lions were finding an equalizer after the break, and went close on a couple of occasions through Pablo Rodriguez and Nurudeen Salau, the home team was unable to level the game and score what would have been a crucial point and relief.

Backed by a fervent home support, USFC were quick out of the blocks, and after conceding a goal in the 25^th minute, the pressure shifted back to the home side.

Prayag United were struggling to get on the ball early on as the hosts sprayed it around confidently, with Linekar Machado pulling the strings in midfield and Salao threatening down the right-hand side. The individual battle between Martins and Anwar Ali had all the makings of a pivotal contest.

The two teams started on the offensive, looking to gain an early advantage. However, an alert defense stopped Lalkamal Bhowmick from testing USFC`s goal keeper, Rakshit Pawar in goal, while a poor first touch often let down United Sikkim’s two forwards, when they got into a dangerous areas.

The home team`s only sight of goal during the game saw Salau get away from Machado on the edge of the penalty box, but as the striker shaped to shoot, the defenders didn’t provide any space and saw it run out of play. Machado, who had been a peripheral figure for much of the first half, did well to win the possession and as he fed Salau just inside the box, the Nigerian’s shot, which looked destined for the back of the net, was somehow clawed away by Subrata Paul.

In truth, it has been a disappointing display by the forwards of the home team, and there was plenty for Nathan Hall to mull over at the break.

While the home team was relying on counter attacks in a bid to get back into the game, attacks were continually breaking down, largely due to a combination of resolute defending from Prayag United side and a poor final ball from United Sikkim.

Machado, Ashish and Pablo exchanged passes wide on the left, and as the midfielder sent a hopeful cross into the box,  did well to head it into the path of Salao who fired inches over the bar.

Six minutes of added time were signaled, but the snow lions were unable to profit from the possession, and in the dying minutes when it looked like the side had chances they didn’t manage to find the net with the Prayag united defenders clearing away the ball everytime.

The snow lions will have to win all the remaining matches and expect some miracles if they are to survive in the I-league after Ranti Martins’ goal on the 25^th minute proved the difference between the two sides at the Paljor Stadium.

“I am very happy with our performance except the outcome which is very disappointing”, said the USFC Manager Nathan Hall who is yet to win a game with this club.

It will take a big performance in front of the home supporters to win the next game against Air India on 27^th but having put pressure on bigger opponents in the past, the players will feel hopeful of upsetting Air India in Paljor Stadium.

National School of Drama, Sikkim breaks language barrier

Women have been made to surrender their individualities at the altars of socio political violence and over reaching patriarchal society. In such juncture, a translated Hindi into Nepali language drama named “Hum Hi Apne Aap” was presented in the National School Drama (NSD) complex of Tripura by the NSD students of Sikkim, today. The Universal theme “God helps those who help themselves” of the drama with feminist approach was highly applauded by the huge attendants.

This drama had its first show in the month of November, 2012 in Sikkim, which led to the outsourcing of this act to other states like Rajasthan, West Bengal and Goa. The drama is circumscribed by the construct of social obligations and pessimistic belief of the traditional Eastern society and each plot is located in the setting of a conflict torn self. Also certain section of this drama with feminism as its outlook reflects the desire to trespass spaces denied to women in the personal as well as public platform.

Bipin Kumar, Director of NSD, Sikkim, informed that NSD, Sikkim was opened in the year 2011, to nurture creativity in the state. Sikkim has a long way to go and can transform their passion into occupation, he said. Moreover, he cited the success behind Tripura Chapter to be the hard work of the entire theatre artistes.

Anil Magar, a senior artiste of NSD Sikkim, acknowledged the efforts of NSD. He said, “We are maturing as an artiste under the guidance of Bipin Kumar and I believe the state government will recognize the company with much concern in the coming days”.

The play is inspired by Padma Sachdeva’s Hindi novel, ‘Ab Na Banegi Dehari’, scripted by Asif Ali Haider Khan.  Jagdish Sharma is the one to have translated the play into bi-lingual form. This Nepali play though had language barriers, was highly recognized and applauded by the audience of Tripura which has set a new outlook of the Sikkimese society to the outside world.

With success already in the pocket, “Kaalo Sunakhari” another interesting Nepali Drama will be showcased tomorrow by NSD, Sikkim for the people of Tripura.

                                                                                                   ...source: Dweep Mustang

HH, the Dalai Lama consecrated statue of Buddha, today at Ravangla.

First year Nursing Students from STNM returning after conducting a Health Survey .

Poetry brings beauty to life. It appeals to a broad audience, and provides a medium for the reader to retain his compassion. To promote the reading, writing, and teaching of poetry and to appreciate and support poets and poetry around the world, World Poetry Day is celebrated on March 21 each year.

Appearing as a sequence of lines arranged in stanzas, poetry relies on the sound of the spoken and on figurative language. It can tell a story, describe an object, narrate an event, or express feelings characterized by linguistic elements that go beyond structures, connecting features of language that appeal to and communicate by sound and sight. 

As a personal and indirect form of expression, poetry speaks directly to an audience much as a narrator of stories does. People like to read, write, and talk about poetry which allow them some breather from today’s hectic lifestyles or maybe just some time to sit back and enjoy a few moments reading or laughing at the poet’s playfulness with words.

People also need the poet’s voice that creates insights, depth of thinking, rhythmic flow of expression, and the fun it offers. Poetry can make people feel better, happier, and even more peaceful. It gives the reader an introspective view of one’s self, and an outlet to let loose thoughts and emotions, the cause of some human anxieties.

SU organizes its first Book Fair

Vice-Chancellor of Sikkim Manipal University Dr. Somnath Mishra inaugurated the first ‘Sikkim University Book Fair-2013’ yesterday at Teesta-Indus Library of Sikkim University. The three day long book fair will be open till 20^th March 2013. The book fair has a total of 13 stalls with books mainly catering for researchers, teachers and academicians including syllabus books for students of Colleges and University.

Chief Guest Dr. Somnath Mishra said that everyone needs books and our life depends upon it. Books enable us in our thought process not only for academic purpose but while making decisions in life. Technological innovations in the way we educate ourselves as students and teachers has changed a lot over the last few years but the role of  books is undeniable. It is for this purpose that students should inculcate reading habits early in life which will certainly benefit them.

Vice chancellor of Sikkim University, Dr. TB Subba said that they have organized this book fair mainly for the college students and teachers. The books have been specially ordered from publishers to meet the needs of the students. The main aim has been to develop the academic culture and to inculcate reading habits amongst the academic community of the University as well as the general reading public from the State.

He further added that the book fair is meant for people to know about books and take advantage of it. It is an opportunity for the students, librarians and the general people of Sikkim to get the best books displayed by these renowned agencies from all over India. Books by Palgrave and Routledge, which have introductory lessons on almost all subjects, are available for students.

The book fair has a collection catering for all disciplines like Science, Commerce, Geology, Anthropology, Foreign and Indian Languages, Mass communication, Films, International Relations, Economics, Peace and Conflict Studies and Psychology. 13 renowned booksellers / publishers from all over the country like Ekta Book Private Ltd., New India Publishing Agency, International Book Distributers, Research Books and Periodicals, Sarat Book House Pvt, Ltd., National Book Distributers and Manohar Publishers have stalled their books in the fair and they are providing an official discount of 10% in every purchase.

This is the first Book Fair organized by the University and it will be held annually every February.

An interactive session for children at the NBT Book Fair

A three days workshop for children is underway at Hotel Rendezvous, Gangtok which has been organized by National Book Trust (NBT), spearheaded by Editor, National Centre for Children’s Literature, Manas Ranjan Mahapatra. The event is part of Sikkim Book Fair-2013.

During today’s workshop, students from a local school participated. The students were divided into groups of two; one was assigned to write a story and the other had to draw a picture based on his teammate`s story. Selected stories from this event will be included in the Reader`s Club Bulletin, a children`s magazine published by NBT. The workshop helped them to bring out their stories and hone their writing skills and most importantly to improve their coordination skills.

Speaking to SIKKIM MAIL on the children’s workshop being conducted at the Sikkim Book Fair Festival, Manas Mahapatra said that children cannot be completely blamed if they are not interested in reading. Teachers, writers, illustrators and to some extent parents should collectively make children`s stories adaptable and appealing so that students are reintroduced into the spell of stories. He felt that children`s literature should be interactive and as attractive as other mediums like TV and games to grab their attention towards books.

Manas Mahatpatra also informed that he had a talk with Minister of HRDD, Government of Sikkim, NK Pradhan yesterday, where they discussed on various coordinated initiatives to be implemented for the promotion of reading habits among the children and youths in Sikkim. They are now planning to implement various future projects in Sikkim.

Firstly, they are planning to set up a Readers Club Movement (RCM) in all government schools up to secondary level in Sikkim. Through RCM, they have been performing various book-related activities for children across India. They have been continuously working with children, setting reader`s clubs in schools, especially in government schools. The movement has been going on for the last two decades.

Secondly, they are planning to have two events for May and October. During May, they will release books (catering to children) of about 10-15 publishers from Northeastern states. In October, there will be northeast children-book publisher`s meet. The NBT has been publishing children’s books in 28 languages. Some have been translated in tribal languages as well.  The NBT has also published these books in Nepali and Lepcha language which is currently available in the stall at the book fair.

On being asked what are the major challenges faced during children’s events in similar book fairs, he replied that the biggest challenge in the country is the dearth of good children`s authors and suitable reading materials for student. Adding to that, he said that there are very few children`s authors these days because most are inclined to write for an adult audience. It is for this reason that Manas Mahapatra and his team have decided to convince the concerned authorities to include a creative writing program for children`s literature as a regular MA course in universities, so that future graduates from this program can frame proper guidelines to produce quality books for children.

He felt that it will take at least 5-6 years to achieve all the proposals they have in mind. “People should be patient. We cannot expect immediate results. Events like this Book Fair takes time for its positive results to be realized in a community. The time has come when we should make coordinated and organized efforts because the government cannot do everything on their own. Only through such collective efforts can a good result be expected in the future,” he concluded.

Manas Mahapatra, along with eminent writer Ruchi Singh and Kabita Lama, have planned to pay a visit tomorrow to Hema Choksi`s children`s library called “Through the Looking Glass”.

Through such children`s events organized by NBT, it is to be hoped that a slow and gradual change will be effected and that more children will be drawn into the world of books in a world of competing mediums like televisions and digital games.

Let’s get together and feel all right...

 

          Gangtok resonated Bob Dylan’s ‘Blowing in the Wind’ on this historic day, when the entire Sikkimese artists came together marching along the highway, urging the public to support local artistes and talents. The rally, starting near Hungry Jack hotel, careened through Zero Point raising banners and placards, strumming guitars and eventually the rally culminated at MG Marg. This initiative of OMAS was well supported with a turnaround of large number of artists and general supporters. Members of the worldwide acclaimed local bands like Girish and Chronicles and Still Waters including eminent singers and artists, were all there with their full-fledged support.  

         Organization of Musicians & Artistes of Sikkim (OMAS), is aiming to bring together all the artists, musicians, and creative heads of Sikkim under one crown. Formed by a group of artists, the organization is enveloping a wide range of activities like music, culture, art, fashion, and the whole thing related to performing arts and creativity.
          Setting up paradigms & role models, OMAS is changing the mindset of the people regarding not only the place of art in society but also a whole array of other issues. They are backing the young musicians and creative heads who crave to achieve and excel in their specific artistic passions. They also seek to bridge the generation gap that exists between parents and children so that children receive the support and encouragement they need to pursue their artistic goals. This initiative of OMAS promises to be a haven for artists and creative minds of Sikkim.
         Mega workshops should be held for artists and the government should lend support to the artists of Sikkim, said one from the horde. The professionalism of these artists needs the respect and acknowledgement, not only from the departments, organizing committees and the government, but the general community too. The event organizers should not be reluctant to invest in local artist.
         OMAS hopes to revolutionize this veracity for artists so that art will find the much-needed air to breathe in Sikkim. Here, the young artists are not getting major platforms and spotlight and their talents are restricted to small spectators. OMAS wants to make it economically viable for artists to stay alive with their talents. There are other issues which they hope to come upon as they begin to bring to the surface other problems that the artists face in society. In the future, they will try to make sure that every talent is not only acknowledged but also financially provided for and that they get to perform on big stages not only in the state but also outside.

Black smoke rises from the chimney on the Sistine Chapel indicating no decision has been made after the first voting session on the second day of the election of a new pope, at the Vatican

It has been decided by the Government of India and the RBI to introduce one billion pieces of Rs. 10 notes in polymer/plastic on a field trial basis. The field trial will be conducted in five cities viz. Kochi, Mysore, Jaipur, Bhubaneswar and Shimla with varied geographical locations and climatic conditions. The primary objective of introduction of polymer notes is to increase its life, it could also help in combating counterfeiting.

This was stated by Minister of State for Finance, Shri Namo Marian Meena in written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha (the Upper House) today

 15^th edition of VKS produced a lively literary event

Vichar Kala Sangam (VKS), a literary platform for the aspiring youths, completed its 15^th episode with the commingling of literary dialogue, recitation of poems and songs by literary and art aspirants. The programme was chaired by Arjun Piyush (Senior Journalist) and had the presence of Deepa Rai (noted Artist/poet) as the Chief Guest. The programme was also attended by the President of Press Club of Sikkim, Bhim Rawat and General Secretary, Joseph Lepcha.

The programme started with poetry recitation in English and by Samir Hang Limboo as he metaphorically narrated an English poem on the beauty of a lady laying stress on “Art for Art’s sake”. Dweep Mustang recited a translated English poem from Prabin Khaling’s sequence of Nepali poems. The Chief Guest of the event Deepa Rai also read an untitled Nepali poem which portrayed the dogma of women in the present society. The poetry presentation ended with the Nepali poetry recitation by Prabin Khaling entitled Jhari and others which exposed the bucolic life in the country side, quest for salvation and the mentality of our society. Menuka Pandey and Senior Journalist Neeta Nirash refreshed the crowd, the former with her songs and the latter with her recital of jokes.

This also led to an intense discussion on Language and the gradual decrease in the quality of Nepali language used in Radio, FM, Television and Media. Rupesh Sharma and Arjun Piyush (both senior journalists) stressed on the usage of proper Nepali terminology and linguistic nuances in order to protect the nature of word from getting diminished.

On this Women's Day...

If you thought that women’s liberation has reached its zenith, think again. Though many women in progressive societies enjoy some liberation, several thousands of them are suppressed and tortured under the garb of morality.

Gender discrimination exists at all levels. At the workplace, where gender inequalities are brushed under the carpet, women workers are often subjected to sexual objectification, harassment, and molestation. Women employees are discouraged from seeking higher positions in management as they are deemed as liabilities. Workplace surveys report that women receive lower wages than their male counterparts.

Why is this so? Are women considered less capable of managing their jobs? Are women pushed to a corner, until they give in to male dominance? Do we live in a repressed society where men are considered the superior sex and women the inferior one?

A society that strangulates the woman that raises her voice will forever remain backward and regressive. New thoughts, ideas, and philosophy will fail to take root within the constricted walls of dominance. Perverted ideals and sexism are often the cause of women's subjugation.

Help women fight their cause by recognizing them as human beings. Respect your women colleagues, friends and family. Inspire women to take on the mantle of women's liberation on this women’s day. Reach out to the millions of muffled female voices by championing their cause.

The time is ripe for young beauties from Sikkim to step out and enter the contest for the most coveted crown of Miss Sikkim, as PRIMO Events & Entertainment, will be organizing Miss Sikkim 2013, this coming June. To make things easier and accessible for the contestants, a website has been launched by this event management company.   

The theme for this year’s pageant is “Beauty with Compassion”. This is the second beauty contest being organized by PRIMO. Last year, only 25 candidates had turned up for Miss Sikkim 2012 out of which one girl has been crowned Miss North East, the other one figured among the Miss India finalists. It is a great career, also a stepping stone.

The beauty contest would be open for anyone who has been residing in Sikkim for the last 6 months and is above 18 years of age. The upper age limit is 25 years. The registration form and the terms and conditions for the contest are available online at  www.misssikkim.com. 

 Sikkim’s positive shift from urban to rural tourism

Rural tourism is gradually becoming a popular and trendy concept in Sikkim. With its natural beauty and diverse culture and traditions, Sikkim is becoming a hot spot for village tourism drawing tourist from near and far.  At one point of time, Sikkim was known only for adventure travel, monastic tours, trekking and bird watching but now the culture and traditions are also coming into limelight because of rural tourism and home stays. The home stay not only provides the comfort of home to tourists, but also helps villagers generate some extra income.

Village tourism has emerged as a very new concept in the Sikkim tourism industry.   Sikkim government has implemented a brand new concept of village tourism where the guests visit villages and meet local people and understand their culture and stay in their houses as a family member. For that, the government is taking an initiative to construct two rooms with attached bathrooms for the beneficiaries.

The government has identified around 720 home stay projects out of which 400 have already been issued workouts, informed Tourism Secretary. “All these projects are done by village cooperative itself. Each home stay is constructed at an estimated value of 7 lakhs by the government itself. The beneficiaries don’t need to pay. All they need to do is provide space for construction. The model for the home stay has been designed by an engineering team from the state”, he acquainted.

The Sikkim government’s village tourism project showcases the unique traditions and distinctive cultural features of the Sikkimese society; a typical  village where tourists get to see the lifestyle of the state's rural folk, the way they build their houses, their folk dances, handicrafts, their magic and puppet shows etc.

The Sikkim government also hopes to set up a model village with suitable modifications to suit local lifestyles. The government is also providing tourism related trainings to the villagers. Through various central and state programs, the youths are getting training on hospitality, service, food production and hygiene.

Earlier tourism prospered only in urban areas like Gangtok and Pelling but now slowly the gap between the urban and rural areas is being shortened with this rural tourism project. With the village tourism, there are chances to explore the real villages unlike having spent short time in different villages on trek. The accommodation will be in actual home, allowing the guest to feel the cross-cultural exchange in the more authentic way unlike staying at the local lodge filled with other backpackers. Tourist will be observing the real Sikkimese cultural tradition from the closest quarter and intermingle with the locals. Besides, any expenses made at that level directly contribute to the welfare of the local community.

R Ongmu takes over as state’s 1^st woman Chief Secretary

Rinchen Ongmu, (IAS 1979 batch) has taken over the charge of the Chief Secretary of the state, today. Ongmu, during her tenure with the state Government has served as District Collector, West and later as Secretary and Head of various department such as Urban Development and Housing Department, Rural Management and Development Department, Social Justice and Empowerment Department, Finance, Planning and Development Department, Ecclesiastical Department and also as Secretary to the Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling.

Ongmu’s appointment is significant as she would be the first women to assume the office of Chief Secretary in the State of Sikkim.

people visiting stalls in IFS

heaven scent, arcandian sunrise, ruby rose..all in a pot

 Yes! We can

The cherished dream of Sikkim hosting the top football league was realized just last year when United Sikkim Football Club (USFC), a professional football club started by Bhaichung became one of the fourteen teams to play in the I-League. The state known for producing good footballers in national level, has majority of football lovers. Football has always been dominant in state and this game of ball was always exciting to watch for every generations. Even in the remote villages football tournaments are organized as a festival. Be it 15^th August or Dasai or Gandhi Jayanti or any occasion, they love to play and love to watch.

Being a home team, USFC has always got support of the Sikkimese people, despite of their poor performances. However, now it seems to be losing or rather will lose, if the situation goes this way. Once packed crowds during the start of the season, they are slowly fading away. The fans are slowly losing their trust after continuous defeats faced by the home club. The football lovers in Sikkim are not satisfied who had very high expectations from their local team. But, amidst all these failures it should not be forgotten that the club is very young with few good players and a decent economy. The other football giants in the league like Mohan Bagan and East Bengal have been playing since over 100 years and have very strong budget. USFC trying to make a place in the league itself is a big thing. But again, if they cannot afford to dream high, they even cannot afford to lose. If they cannot hold on to being in the top league it might then be very hard to gain back the place and the respect. Nobody wants to go back and play in second division after having played in the top league. 
At the moment, there is a huge pressure mounting over our USFC players and managements. Couple of months ago a coach was sacked after a poor display by the team. A new one replaces him in the middle of the season. But no changes so far. The team lies at the bottom. Something somewhere seems to be lacking. People can be heard judging, ‘If this had happened’. ‘If he was replaced’. ‘But he has to be there’. There are many ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’. Everybody is concerned. The new born team is pressurized. They are criticized. Public walks out in between the game. Where is the support? 
The club from Sikkim is heading towards a possible exit from the league although everything not over yet.  Like nothing can be decided until the last moment, none can say it’s all over. We just need to stay calm. We need to support after all its ‘USFC’, our ‘own’ and ‘first ever’ home team. Who knows with our optimistic support and faith there might be a win for USFC and more wins may follow and the home team may bounce back, alive and with zeal. Yes! We can.

Buddha Park in Ravangla, soon to be inaugurated by HH Dalai Lama

The team of the fashion magazine, Marie Claire is in the capital to shoot for the International Flower Show 2013. The main topic for the photo shoot is flowers, keeping in mind the theme of the Flower Festival. The team is here on a three-day visit which includes shooting in different locations around the capital like Rumtek, Lingdum, Hidden Forest and M.G. Marg. The main idea for the shoot is not only to capture clothes which have big names of the fashion industry like Armani, Christian Dior, etc. but also to showcase the beauty of the state. The team comprises of Pearl Shah, Fashion Director, Marie Claire, Aneev Rao, Photographer, Puneet Kumar, Assistant Photographer, Avni Rambia, Make-up Artist and Heta 
Bhuta, Booking Editor.

“People of Sikkim are the most welcoming and we are having an amazing time here. Though the weather is overcast, God has not been favorable since it has been raining, but the beauty of Sikkim is just stunning and we are sure the photo shoot is going to be brilliant despite the rain factor” - Pearl Shah

  

JukeBox's Mahima

The grand finale of the ‘Red Ribbon Unplugged’ Multimedia Campaign, 2012-13 was held at Manan Kendra in the evening of 17th February. On the whole, there were 6 Red Ribbon Unplugged finalist Bands who battled out for the title and cash prize of Rupees Hundred thousand.  Crazy Guns, Lazy Fingers, B Tunes and M Stones all from Gangtok and Road House Invasion from Namchi performed two numbers each. The program also saw guest performance from local Rapper duo of Urban Inc. This was followed by ACDC and Jimi Hendrix numbers from Girish & the Chronicles. After the online and SMS voting and points were put together, Crazy Guns was affirmed as this year's winner followed by Lazy Fingers and Road House Invasion on second and third places. The program ended with a routine by Juke Box, the finalist band of   Multi Media Campaign, 2011-12

Girish N the Chronicles (Photo Courtesy: Joseph Lepcha)

HIV has been a universal dilemma and hence in order to bring awareness in particular among the youth regarding AIDS, Substance Abuse and other related problems, the Sikkim State Aids Control Society had organized Multi Media Campaign in two divisions. The First part consisted of an Open Drama Competition based on HIV/AIDS which came to an end on February 15. Through these two parts campaign, the SSACS is trying to send HIV/AIDS preventive messages to every nook and corner of Sikkim. Through the Plays/drama performance, the awareness regarding the AIDS and other social issues shall reach not only the urban population but also the far-flung countryside of Sikkim. This musical extravaganza is held every year and every winner has achieved popularity and success through this launch pad.

snow capped mountain peak

Internationally acclaimed Gangtok band 'Stillwaters' performs in 'Blue Heart Rock Show' in Gangtok. Dirty Angels Motorcycle Club had organized this awareness campaign against Human Trafficking, rape and child abuse.

                                       new video 'dream high' from URBAN INC.