SAMDUPTSE a HIT with TOURISTS EVEN BEFORE OFFICIAL INAUGURATION TURN to Pg9 for DETAILS

07-13 Jan, 2003; NOW! 1 GANGTOK, WEDNESDAY, Jan 14-20, 2004

NOW!SIKKIM MATTERS VOL 2 NO 27 Rs. 5

At this time last year, Kopchay was a village of sustenance farmers which few people even in Sikkim had heard of. Today, people in faraway Nepal, Bhutan and Bihar are familiar with Kopchay and seek out the Guruji of Kopchay and his healing touch when all other avenues of cure close down on them. Everyone and everything at Kopchay seems to have been touched by the magical aura of Nirmal Mangar, known among the believers simply as “Guruji,” who lives a life of abstinence, but has triggered an economic boom for this tiny hamlet and its residents... TURN TO pg 12 FOR DETAILS

Rhenock started the week on a tense note. By Sunday evening, the whole town was abuzz with news of a gruesome murder of two minors by a teenaged neighbour and alleged rape. The revulsion over the incident soon converted to anger and a lynch mob gathered to appro- priate instant justice. It took all the negotiating skills of the local panchayats and senior ruling party workers to calm the tempers down. The locals now want the “maximum possible” punishment for the accused and assure there was never any plan afoot to instigate a backlash against the community to which the accused belonged [he is a nonlocal]. They however admit that there is now need for better records on the antecedents of outsiders working and running businesses in Sikkim. TURN TO pg3 FOR DETAILS SAMDUPTSE A HIT WITH TOURISTS EVEN BEFORE OFFICIAL INAUGURATION TURN TO pg9 FOR DETAILS

Near Krishi Bhawan, Tadong, Gangtok. Phone: 270876

NOW AT Below Power Deptt, Kazi Road, Gangtok. Phone: 227917 MANGAN & Nayuma Building, Namchi Bazar, Namchi, Phone: 263919 Below SNT Bus Terminus, Mangan GEYZING Near Sikkim Consumer Cooperative Society, Geyzing e-mail: [email protected]

CMYK 2; NOW! ; 07-13 Jan, 2004 GANGTOK 07-13 JAN, 2004 ED-SPACE NOW! Travel India SIKKIM MATTERS Much still needs to be done to trigger a real tourism boom Can’t Rush On Seats For LTs oday, there is an intense competition among history, culture, wildlife, religious and eco-tourism. developing countries to attract international Yet, some of the best places are so remote that one The elections are almost upon us and the campaigning has Ttourists and for one-third of the smaller na- has to spend at least a day by vehicle to reach them already begun in the earnest. It is also obvious that the tions, it is the main industry. from the closest hotel. There are very few direct pretenders to the throne are grasping at straws to ride an issue They are spending a bigger portion of their GDP flights to choice tourist destinations and waiting at into power. While allegations of corruption and favoritism compile on promoting tourism than India, and they have de- airports can be tedious and boring. The answer to into interesting press releases, Sikkim, as the does the nation, veloped the required infrastructure very fast. For In- this is to build small helipads with efficient service. knows only too well that these are not issues that win elections. dia, even though there is so much to see, the Helipads can be built at locations of choice and one It is not that the people have grown to accept this combination government’s spending on tourism is inadequate for doesn’t need the entire gamut of infrastructure re- which has become a non-issue because the people no longer developing comparable facilities. The central plan quired for an airport. believe that any politician or political outfit can effect a change Temple tourism in India is rather slim and this on this front. Everyone realises that political will alone cannot outlay for the department of tourism was barely Rs. wipe out corruption; it requires social awakening as well. But 225 crore in 2002-03. should be a reason for concern given the that, we leave for another time. Since democracy in Sikkim is The tourist traffic to India has in- country’s splendid architectural wonders yet too young to incorporate the anti-incumbency factor into its creased by 16 per cent. But far few DEEP of history. Cambodia gets nearly as many voting pattern, one has to ride a wave to dethrone established people visit India as compared to coun- tourists as India and yet, its only attrac- powers. When there is no “wave” in the offing, one has to be tries in South East Asia. Barely 3 mil- FOCUS tion is Angkor Wat. An important reason manufactured. In the process, several issues get thrown up in lion tourists arrive annually here. By con- RANJIT SINGH for the popularity of Angkor Wat is that the hope that some attract the interest of the masses. There trast, Thailand and Malaysia are able to it has been packaged well. It is the lack are several such issues in the air at present, but none being as attract at least three times more tourists. of aggressive promotion of Indian art and culture and persistently pursued as the seat reservation arrangement for If tourism increased significantly, it would have the absence of excellent infrastructure that pose big the Limbus and Tamangs. helped many ancillary industries like food process- problems in promoting temple tourism in India. The Let’s first get the facts straight on the implications of the listing ing, services and handicrafts. And because it is a word-of-mouth about bad experiences is also very of the two communities as Scheduled Tribes. The two labour-intensive industry, more jobs especially in discouraging. communities automatically start enjoying all the benefits rural areas could be created. And since most of the The best way to prepare for more international earmarked for STs in India. Since the reservation of seats is natural beauty and wildlife are to be found in non- tourists is to encourage domestic tourism, which has guaranteed for them by the Constitution, they will get that too in urban areas, rural people could find employment as now reached 30 million. Better services in remote proportion to their population ratio. It is here that granting the guides and transporters, with proper training. More places meant mainly for domestic tourists could cre- demand becomes tricky in Sikkim. In other states, Limbus and jobs in rural areas would also help reduce the con- ate the requisite infrastructure for foreign tourists at Tamangs, along with other communities included in the ST list a later stage. Even for domestic tourists, lower taxes recently, can automatically contest from seats already reserved tinuous migration to big towns and cities. for STs there. Although the number of seats reserved for STs Since tourism depends on an assortment of fac- and better-packaged tours would help. This is how elsewhere also needs to be reworked since the population tors, clean airports, good roads, uninterrupted power most ASEAN countries and China developed their composition of STs changes with the new inclusions, there is supply and modes of easy transportation are essen- tourism industry within a few years. no rush for the same since some seats are already reserved for tial. Tourists also like safe, short-haul destinations, By 2020, when China overtakes France as the STs and open to the new communities too. There is, however, cheap and comfortable accommodation and hygienic number one tourist destination in the world, India no such reservation in Sikkim where seats are reserved for conditions in hotels and restaurants. To double the will feel the need to catch up. China will also be the Bhutias and Lepchas and not for STs. Here, fresh seats need to number of tourists, the needs of small-budget tour- fourth most important tourism-generating country. be carved out for STs. The first requirement for this will obviously ists also have to be addressed by building more in- Much tourist traffic could be expected from be the latest census figures on the population composition of expensive hotels and guest houses in towns close to neighbouring countries if things improve fast with STs in Sikkim. It gets further complicated when one bears in tourist spots. easy visas and quick access to Buddhist monuments. mind that even BLs will have to included in this figure since India has an amazing variety to offer specially in It’s high time we got proactive on this one. they too are STs. Then there will be the debate over whether the ST reserved seats will also be open for BLs since seats cannot be reserved for LTs by community and will have to be PROFILING THE FUTURE ter. Anyways, I hope that we get a for votes. They should not be al- recorded as seats reserved for ST. Then, the decision-making OW’s profile on the youth similar planner for the coming lowed to get away with just assur- bodies will need the constituency-wise breakup of ST population Nicons of Sikkim made for in- months. The January planner over ances otherwise the LT seats will in Sikkim to earmark the constituencies to be reserved. This teresting reading. Although I can my study will be lonely otherwise. become a never-ending issue like again cannot be tabulated with LTs in isolation and will probably think of some more individuals Sharan Rai, Gangtok the lost seats of the Sikkimese have to include the BLs as well. That is another tricky situation. who should have made it to the RESERVATION FOR Nepalese - something that every It is only after this and several other administrative nitty-gritty’s final list, I admit here that the LIMBUS party raises, but none delivers on. are ironed out that a proposal can be drafted on how many youthful faces make me feel op- am tired of reading about dif Puran Sharma seats should be reserved for the STs [let’s not forget that the timistic about Sikkim’s future. ferent political parties and their WE SUPPORT GUNJAN’S new reservation will not be on the basis of community, but for I Wonder whether anyone noticed demands for reserving seats for the CALL STs] and where. And we are still talking the administrative that there were no politicians or Limbus and Tamangs in the State eading “Dare to Aspire,” by requirements. Eventually, the Representation of Peoples Act bureaucrats featured in the list of will have to be amended to record and authorise reservation for Assembly, now that they are RGunjan Pradhan in NOW! is- Scheduled Tribes in Sikkim which will cover the constitutional people with promise. Was the tribals. Everyone from a formi- sued dated 07-13 January, 2003, safeguard of political rights of the Limbus and Tamangs in their oversight intentional or is that was refreshing. We also dicussed new avataar. there are just none among this the points raised by Gunjan within Needless to add, the various aspects at play here and historical breed who show any promise? LETTERS our group and all are in agreement baggage of existing reservations make the issue of reserving Chophel, Gangtok dable Mr. Bhandari to the nonex- that Sikkimese youth have for too seats for LTs very complicated. It is not something that can be THANKS FOR THE istent BJP or SHRP seems to be long looked only towards quotas decided and cleared in a hurry. It is in the interest of every PLANNER calling the ruling party to “dis- to take them ahead in studies and community involved that the ground realities are first identified, he colour planner carried in close” its formula for reservation. even in life. In fact, we have even the problem points reasoned out and a consensus arrived on Tthe last issue of NOW! was I understand that it is the moral started celebrating our backward- the structure of reservations. It is all very easy to say that Limbus innovative and interestingly de- responsibility of the SDF govern- ness and hold on to the quota sys- and Tamangs deserve a particular number of seats and that the signed. I specially liked how you ment to get the seats for the Lim- tem without showing any signs of same should be reserved immediately for them, but it’s not as have immortalised the freak bus and Tamangs, but don’t the improving on our steam. From simple a task when one tries to work around the existing snowfall that hit Gangtok in De- others have any contribution to studies to business, we seem to be reservation system and find a solution acceptable to all sections cember-end. The only sore point make. I want every party to come able to survive only if we have a of the Sikkimese society. It also goes without saying that these I hold is that the planner an- on record with how and how many quota reserved for us. This needs seats, since they are guaranteed by the Constitution, cannot be nounced only one event - the re- seats they promise to reserve for to change. We support Gunjan denied to the two communities and will eventually come their lease of Chameli. I personally the two communities in Sikkim if and hope that we can rise above way. All that is required is some patience and some clear thinking want the events of all pubs an- so that no community, including the LTs, ends up feeling they come to power. Every party the limitations of quotas when the shortchanged... nounced a month in advance so needs to come clean on this issue time comes for us to perform. that I can plan my night-caps bet- before they approach the people Students from Tadong

2 CMYK UPFRONT 07-13 Jan, 2003; NOW! 3 Rape and double-murder of minors shocks border town Rhenock in mourning Locals want “maximum” punishment for accused, assure there will be no backlash arrested along with the two People were assembled in ANAND OBEROI bodies the same evening. pockets, obviously discussing As news of the double murder the crime from the day before. RHENOCK: This border town in and alleged rape of a minor The air appeared heavy with east Sikkim started the week on spread, tempers started flaring in tension and it was only when we a tense note with news of a the region. Almost immediately, spoke to the locals did it become gruesome double-murder of all shops downed shutters in clear that it was shock and minors sending waves of disgust mourning and locals started general paranoia that permeated and revulsion through the region trooping to the police station to Rhenock. However, not and spreading panic among the get updated on the latest status. prepared to take any chances, residents who have still not come As the crowd grew in strength so two sections of Sikkim Armed to grips with the violence of the did the anger over the incident. Police have also been deployed crime that visited them on Many wanted immediate justice to the area, but no untoward Sunday evening. and even as a lynch mob readied incident hinting at a possible According to official sources, itself, rumour spread of a backlash have been reported on Sunday evening a 5-year-old possible backlash against the thus far. and her 3-year-old cousin were community to which the accused In fact, the locals are insistent murdered by a teenaged boy belonged. Intervention of the that they hold no grudges against who lived in the same building local panchayats and senior any particular community. as them. Although the case is still ruling party workers of the area, “Members of the community under investigation, information helped along by the prompt to which the accused belongs available thus far suggests that action taken by Sikkim Police, are also a part of our samaj and 17-year-old Krishna Prasad brought the situation under are as fearful for the safety of Saha lured the two minors into control. The residents, however, their children as we are. No one his room at around 5 PM on continue to mount pressure on here wants to target them, but Sunday evening and then the investigating agencies and everyone wants the maximum allegedly raped the 5-year-old want the maximum punishment punishment for the accused to after switching on the television possible for the accused. serve as a deterrent for future to drown the screams for help. In shock over the case and in offenders,” said Bindya Thapa, He is then alleged to have sympathy for the bereaved a CEC member of the ruling SDF decapitated her before slitting family, shops in Rhenock and party, who has been keeping in the throat of the younger minor. Rongli remained closed on constant touch with the It is learnt that he planned to Monday and even vehicles investigating agencies and the smuggle the bodies out during remained off the roads in the locals. She had just finished a the one-hour load-shedding later area. Even parts of Singtam meeting with police officials in evening but was seen with the remained closed on Monday as when she spoke to NOW! bodies by an eight-year-old boy news of the double-murder She also clarified that no who lives in the same building. spread. bandh was enforced in the When this kid informed his elder When NOW! reached region and that business houses brothers of what he had seen, Rhenock on Monday evening all downed shutters voluntarily in a they locked Krishna’s flat and shops were closed and vehicles called in the cops. He was stood parked in the stands. 17 year old Krishna Prasad Saha in police custody later the - MORE ON pg 10 next day. a NOW! pic the information nexus JOIN & HANDS ! TTERS WITH MA NOWSIKKIM TO COVER SIKKIM BETTER for news coverage in the country’s only Colour Nepali daily, HIMALAYA DARPAN, or trade enquiries, contact NOW! Gairi Gaon, Tadong, Gangtok. ph: 270949; [email protected]

CMYK 3 4; NOW! ; 07-13 Jan, 2004 POWERPLAY Somnolent bureaucracy, Chamling’s next target

a NOW! REPORT Pointing out that Janata Melas to “take to the streets” to get their formed party of his government’s demand for seat reservation met, ADAMPOOL: The Prime Min- activities much in advance of the Mr. Chamling voiced suspicion ister has given the nod to Lok elections, he said no one could that more forces than were obvi- Sabha polls in March-April and thus accuse his using the event as ous were behind such attitudes. Sikkim could opt for simulta- a political gimmick. The Opposi- “What do these groups mean by neous Assembly polls. Although tion leaders, he said, were how- taking to the streets? I suspect they only the Chief Minister, Pawan ever consistent in their knack for want to snatch reservations exist- Chamling, knows for sure on surfacing only during election ing for other communities,” he whether this will be the case or years. said while adding that his govern- not, he is already dropping subtle “Remember who stayed with ment won tribal status for the hints on what will form part of his the people throughout and who Limbus and Tamangs and only his next poll plank. After promising comes forward with false sympa- government will get them their an end to an dictatorial regime in thy when elections are around the rightful quota of seats. 1994, development in 1999, Mr. corner,” Mr. Chamling said. At the Janata Mela, which con- Chamling appears zeroing in on He also reminded the gather- tinue attract largercrowds, the setting the house right by shak- ing that only his government Chief Minister distributed tokens ing awake the somnolent bureau- thought it wise to distribute ben- for Rural Housing Schemes, GCI cracy in 2004. efits directly to the people at the Sheets, free LPG connections, Speaking at the second phase Janata Melas while others before Land Bank Scheme, Develop- of the Janata Melas for Ranka, him had only made promises and mental activities to Panchayats Rumtek and Gangtok constituen- seldom delivered. under Swarna Gram Rojgar cies here on 9 January, Mr. He also accused those in the Yogna, CMSES, Maternity Ben- Chamling admitted that bureau- Opposition of fanning communal efit and Old age pensions to short cratic bottlenecks and loop-holes passions by confusing people listed beneficiaries from BPL in the administration were still with “non-issues” and urged the families. proving to be major deterrents in people not to get taken in with Earlier, the DC, East, Mr. realizing his vision for Sikkim. these “desperate attempts” at cre- Srinivasulu, while speaking on While castigating the bureaucratic ating an “issue” out of nothing. the various schemes being pro- indifference towards the welfare While urging the people to ac- vided for the people said that of the people, Mr. Chamling cept ground realities, he admitted Janata Melas were unique to Handing over public benefits directly to the people. called on the people to approach that government employment was Sikkim. He added that the Janata Chamling at the Adampool Janata Mela. a NOW! pic him directly with complaints now scarce, but assured that he Melas were held with the sole against uncooperative bureau- has enough schemes and objective of reaching the basic the past ten years of SDF rule and MLA, Ranka in his speech talked crats. He stressed that unless the programmes already in place and facilities to the people directly and expressed confidence that the un- about the building of a hospital government officials improved several more in the anvil to make benefiting the poor. derprivileged would continue to in Reshithang and how it would their attitude, the society could the future generations of Sikkim Gangtok MLA, NK Pradhan, benefit under the SDF. benefit the locals directly and how never progress. “self-sufficient” and masters not spoke about the various develop- Tseten Dorjee Lepcha, area - MORE ON pg 9 Appearing in obvious election- subservient to anyone else. mental projects being carried out eering mode, Mr. Chamling Taking strong exception of re- in the State and reiterated that the launched a scathing attack on the cent calls by some organizations living standards of the poor had opposition parties in the State. urging the Limbus and Tamangs seen a substantial improvement in SBI & MARUTI announces Pedong-based Limbu assc. protests Jaitley letter Sikkim Government and its allies, Sikkim,” Mr. Subba said. a NOW REPORT the NDA Government at the cen- The AILYA is of the opinion tre to achieve their political goal that the LTs of Sikkim have been GANGTOK: The Pedong-based in view of the forthcoming gen- “discriminated” against in spite of All India Limbu Youth Association eral elections.” the assurances given to a delega- [AILYA], central committee has “This sort of activities provoke tion of the Association by Prime GET A CAR strongly condemned the Union the socio-political sentiments of Minister Vajpayee during his visit Minister for Law & Justice, Arun every Limbu and Tamang resid- to the State in April last year. Jaitley’s recent letter on the issue ing in different parts of the coun- The Association has demanded in just ONE DAY of seat reservation for the Limbus- try,” Mr. Subba said. a “positive action” by both the Tamangs in the Sikkim Legislative The Union Minister had said Sikkim as well as the central gov- SCHEME Assembly wherein he is reported that the political rights of the two ernments to “complete the incom- ALL YOU NEED ARE: to have said that “status quo” will communities, after their inclusion plete composition of the tribal sta- be maintained on issue in the forth- in the ST list, was in considered tus of the LTs before the ensuing PASSPORT SIZED PHOTOGRAPHS coming assembly elections. view only and status quo on the general election” and has also put PROOF OF INCOME The president of AILYA, issue would be maintained for the a demand for the immediate with- PROOF OF RESIDENCE Kharga Vikram Subba, in a press time being. drawal of Union Minister’s con- PROOF OF IDENTITY statement has said that the con- “It is unfortunate that these troversial letter. The AILYA has troversial stand taken by the two communities in Sikkim are sent memorandums to the Prime Union Minister on the seat reser- not being treated at par with other Minister and the Union Law Min- & EMI ONLY Rs. 1660 / LAKH vation issue was “unlawful, un- Scheduled Tribes from the rest of ister with these demands. just” and could be a “pre-planned the country. To be represented in The Association has said that STATE BANK Personal Banking Advance Centre and politically-motivated to de- the People’s House is the primary it will render its full support to- NH 31 A Cintury Bhawan prive the political rights of the right of any community which has wards the fulfillment of the de- OF INDIA Gangtok Ph No: 221165 Limbu-Tamangs of Sikkim by the been snatched from the LTs of mands for the LTs in Sikkim.

4 CMYK POWERPLAY 07-13 Jan, 2003; NOW! 5 Bhandari has poll sops for everyone Pipons elected CONG RELAUNCHES CAMPAIGN from OUR CORRESPONDENT LACHUNG: The election of TRAIL FROM RAVANGLA Pipons to the Dzumsa was held here on 9 January ear- employees was also made on the lier this month. a NOW REPORT day. Files of those wishing to go Three candidates, Hissay on voluntary retirement scheme Lachungpa from Lema RAVANGLA: Sikkim will, in all will be cleared faster, he promised probability go for simultaneous while adding that dues and pen- Block, Samdup Lachungpa assembly polls when the nation sions of widows will be cleared and Karma Lachungpa from undertakes the Lok Sabha elec- within 15 days. Khedum Block contested the tions sometime in end-March or He also stated that no exten- election, which was con- early April. Although an official sion of service will be allowed ducted in the presence of Dis- announcement is still awaited on after retirement and hinted that his trict Collector, North, PS this count, political parties appear government will not appoint ad- Targain, ADC, North, RC convinced that this is the way visors and chairmen in govern- Bhutia, senior SP, BB Basnet things will pan out in the coming ment departments and undertak- and the SDM, Chungthang. months. And everyone appears to ings. The entire election process have hit the campaign trail in the Going rural, Mr. Bhandari has earnest, including state Congress promised free electricity, except proceeded peacefully. president and former Chief Min- to those using it for commercial Hissay Lachungpa from ister, Nar Bahadur Bhandari. Ad- purposes, which he said will be the Lema Block was de- Bhandari with party colleague Thukchuk Lachungpa at the Ravangla meet dressing a Congress public meet- billed at Rs. 2 per unit as against clared the Pipon uncon- ing here on 10 January, last Sat- The poll rhetoric apart, it is the also apply to home-guards, he the existing Rs. 4 per unit. He also tested. From the Khedum urday, the former SSP chief an- list of promises which seems to promised a ration allowance of promised to waive off all loans Block, Samdup Lachungpa nounced promises which seem to have thought out a sop for every- Rs. 500 for police personnel. given under the Chief Minister’s got 78 votes to beat Karma have left no section of the one which makes for interesting In an obvious admission of the Self Employment Scheme. Lachungpa got 73 votes. Sikkimese society out. reading. sizeable clout the bureaucrats Rs. 50,000 and 40 GCI sheets The newly-elected Pipons Describing the forthcoming In his first obvious play at lo- wield in political futures of lead- for each family were promised said that they would work polls in the state as a fight be- cal sentiments, Mr. Bhandari as- ers, Mr. Bhandari has assured to under the rural housing scheme tween “Dhan-shakti” and “Jan- sured to revert all Old Laws lost waive the Rs. 500 being charged along with 75 kg rice every month for the welfare and the shakti,” Mr. Bhandari maintained since the Merger. He also prom- per month from government em- for those living below the poverty progress of the people from that the ruling party has all the ised to raise the Muster Roll ployees and officials having offi- turn to pg 10 their areas. dhan to use against his party, but wages to Rs. 3,000 per month up cial cars at their disposal. A prom- promised a tough fight, which he from the present Rs. 1,500. While ise for either House Rent Allow- reiterated he would win. announcing that this wage would ance or quarters to all government MONKS WANT SIBLAC TO INTERVENE IN KHECHEOPALRI CONTROVERSY “Khachoedpalri Pemachen Monasteries unite under ASMAN a NOW REPORT Tsho [Khacheopalri Lake] in West of Guru Rinpoche; to establish a Pangtoe Chaam at the Tsuklakhang GANGTOK: The Sikkim Bhutia- Sikkim has been recognised as one University which inter-alia pro- a NOW REPORT Monastery here in Gangtok. The Lepcha Apex Committee of most sacred Buddhist places of vides a separate field of studies on monks present at the meeting are [SIBLAC] has said that the worship through the Government GANGTOK: The monks of Buddhism, cultural heritage and also reported to have taken a serious Khecheopalri Monastery Associa- of Sikkim, Home Department No- Sikkim have come together on a values according to the Sikkimese note of the “defilement” of the tion and the Khecheopalri Holy tification No.70/ Home/ 2001 is- common platform and formed the lineage; to work for the socio-eco- Khecheopalri Lake. It expressed Lake Welfare Committee has re- sued on September 20, 2001. The Day-Gyon-Jingkyong Tsogpa or nomic and political advancement hope that the State government and quested it to intervene and “take lake is protected under the provi- All Sikkim Monasteries’ Associa- of monks belonging to the monas- the district administration would necessary action” to prevent the sions of the Places of Worship tion [ASMAN]. teries of Sikkim and to improve the take all necessary action according what they see as “defilement” of the [Special Provisions] Act, 1991 and An ASMAN press release states existing monastic education by in- to law to remove the “illegal” struc- Khecheopalri lake in west Sikkim. the State Government’s Notifica- that the main aims and objectives troducing all subjects that are nec- ture from the vicinity of the lake. A Press statement issued by tion No.59/ Home/ 98 dated Oc- of the Association are to preserve essary to become a qualified monk. Meanwhile, the Sikkim Bhutia- SIBLAC spokesman, Tenzin tober 26, 1998. The construction and protect Sikkimese Buddhist The Association is headed by the Lepcha Apex Committee C’wang, reveals that functionar- of unauthorised structure inside cultural heritage, monasteries, holy Yangthang Rinpoche, Terton Dorje [SIBLAC] has welcomed the for- ies of the two associations made the vicinity of the lake is sacri- places and structures; to respect the Dechen Lingpa and has Lachen mation of ASMAN. A joint-delega- a formal request during lege and violation of the provi- sanctity of the institution of the Gomchen Tulku Rinpoche as the tion of SIBLAC and ASMAN is SIBLAC’s Second Saturday Meet sions that protect the lake. People Sangha seat within the framework vice-president. ASMAN plans to expected to visit New Delhi soon held here on 10 January. Steering who are engaged in defiling this of Article 371F; to ensure that suf- meet at least once every three months to raise the issues of delimitation committee members from all the sacred Buddhist place of worship ficient resources are provided for to review its progress and other re- of assembly constituencies, amend- four districts and monks represen- are hell-bent on undermining the the maintenance and development lated religious activities. In its first ment of Scheduled Tribes Order and tatives from various monasteries provisions and making it a politi- of Buddhist religious institutions meeting, the Association discussed the protection of religious rights of across the State are reported to cal issue,” Mr. C’wang says in the in the State; to propagate teachings the possibility of reviving the

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CMYK 6; NOW! ; 07-13 Jan, 2004 DATELINENORTHSIKKIM Namsoong moods from Namprikdang Fire razes tional skills alive, the organiz- Handicrafts on display at the Namsoong celebrations (bot- house in ers had also made space for tom left), handmade tools and handlooms at the Dept. of amsoong celebrations at stalls displaying traditional Industries kiosk (bottom right) and a traditional dance Namprikdang showcased wares like Foorlungs, Dochas, troupe (below). NOW! pics Namok Ntraditional art and culture Dokos and Bamboo mugs for and provided a swinging time for sale. All these household items, a NOW REPORT some old-fashioned fun and crafted from cane and bamboo NAMOK: A fire razed the house frolic. Those who made it to the were going at prices ranging of Karma Golay Bhutia to the celebrations were treated to some from Rs. 100-900. ground here on December 23. No undiluted display of traditional Even government departments casualties were reported. dances by members of a local had taken up stalls at the The fire started suddenly at NGO Mutanchi Lom Aal Shezum Namsoong mela with an Indus- around 2:15 am in the wee hours and the more professional cultural tries Department stall offering tra- of the morning and spread quickly troupe of Hamro Parivaar from ditionally crafted patangs, engulfing the whole house within Gangtok. The Namprikdang khukuris, knives and handlooms no time. The neighbours tried to ground played host to guests from for sale. The decorative patangs put out the fire but in vain. It is as far as Darjeeling, Kalimpong at this stall was specially attrac- estimated that Mr. Bhutia incurred and Siliguri apart from locals tive and reasonably priced. losses amounting to Rs. 1.20 from all over the State who at- At the end of the day, the mela lakhs in the fire. tended the celebration of this provided happy hunting ground The fire department was in- Lepcha festival in the Lepcha for anyone interested in tradi- formed about the fire around 4:15 heartland. tional craftwork without having to am. They reached the house In an effort to keep the tradi- settle for shoddy workmanship. around 5 am and it took them about one and half hours to ex- tinguish the fire. Most of the house, which had ekra walls, had however, already burnt down. The personnel from the fire department did manage to keep the fire from spreading and saved the surrounding houses. Initial reports suggest that the fire probably broke out due to a short circuit or a loose wire connection.

Car Loan Mela @ Jorethang from 13 - 15 January 2004 at SBI, Jorethang Branch. CONSUMER OFFERS FOR JANUARY 2004 Model Offer North immunizes more children than it knew it had Maruti 800 50% Free Comprehensive Insurance OMNI 50% Free Comprehensive Insurance also be because of the presence more successful this year be- Alto 800 None from OUR CORRESPONDENT Alto 1.1 Comprehensive Insurance @ Rs. 1 of a floating population of resi- cause the Department also used Wagon-R Comprehensive Insurance @ Rs. 1 MANGAN: Although a Health dents from other districts who mobile pulse polio immuniza- Zen (Petrol) Rs. 5,000 MGA Department census conducted in were in the north district at the tion booths which traveled the Esteem (petrol & diesel) Rs. 30,000 Gift Cheque + 2003 would have us believe that time. It is still a formidable length and breadth of the dis- Rs. 10,000 Exahcnge Bonus Baleno Rs. 10,000 MGA + Rs. 10,000 Exhange Bonus there are only 5,256 children in achievement for the Health de- trict reaching out to children Versa Rs. 10,000 MGA + Rs. 10,000 Exhange Bonus the 0-2yrs age-group in the north partment officials posted here. whose parents might not have Gypsy None district, effective coverage by the RCHO, Dr. DS Keroge, heard of the camps or decided Vitara None Pulse Polio Immunization camps while speaking to NOW!, re- against getting them immu- MOTORS has seen to it that 5,464 children vealed that the district was ser- nized. (Pvt.)Ltd. here were given their pulse polio viced by 125 booths, 21 of Health Department officials ENTEL AUTHORISED MARUTI DEALERS drops between 4-6 January earlier which were in the Mangan sub- were assisted by Mahila Sanstha 6th MILE, TADONG, GANGTOK. Ph: 231828, 232059, 232341 this month. This is an impressive division. When asked to com- Sangh volunteers and the ICDS MOBILE: 94341 - 17590 103.95 per cent coverage that few ment on the more than impres- Department in the latest drive other districts would be able to sive coverage achieved, he ex- which was supervised by CMO SBI match. The higher numbers could plained that the camps were [North], Dr. IL Sharma. FINANCE EASY FINANCE

6 CMYK RECAPSIKKIM 07-13 Jan, 2003; NOW! 7 Lepchas continue with meetings, tilt towards ruling front Read on if you want schemes launched by the State concerns of the Lepchas. The lat- a NOW REPORT government. est initiative on this front comes According to a press release from the Sikkim Lepcha Youth GANGTOK: A meeting of the issued by the Association, the Association which organised win- to fight substance Renjyong Mutanchi Rong Tarjum meeting welcomed the decision of ter coaching classes for the stu- [Sikkim Lepcha Association] was the ruling Sikkim Democratic dents of the State at the Kurmom held at Burtuk, East Sikkim on Front to field six Lepcha candi- Lepcha Association Building. January 4 under the chairmanship dates from the 12 reserved BL Part of the programme was a abuse in Sikkim of its president CT Lepcha. seats. The members of the com- visit by Dr. Namgyal T. Sherpa, The meeting, which was munity present at the meeting also MD, who gave a two-hour lecture We all know that drug abuse exists. We’ve heard organised by community mem- expressed their solidarity and sup- on various common ailments, about it, read about it. Some of us have also dealt bers of the area under the leader- port to the SDF government. their prevention and cure on 6 with it among friends and family. And yet, most of ship of Azing Lepcha, advisor, The Block Level Committee January earlier this month. STA, was attended by a large [Burtuk Kyong Tarjum] was also The lecture proved immensely us are still unaware about how serious and wide- number of Lepchas from the sur- formed during the meeting under beneficial to the students. Dr. spread the problem is. Even we at NOW! when we rounding areas of Burtuk, Ranka- the presidentship of Chultrim Sherpa also participated in an in- started working on the three-part drug story Parbing and Luing-Sichey. The Lepcha. teractive session with the students serialised recently were not prepared for the on- main objective behind the gath- The Lepchas associations ap- on subjects related to medicine. slaught of facts and figures that kept coming at us. ering was to discuss various issues pear to have kicked into top gear Some students were also given on The story kept getting bigger, and yet, in retrospect, pertaining to the preservation and ever since they parted ways from the spot check up and diagnosis. we seem to have only skimmed the surface, only promotion of the Lepcha culture SIBLAC. Apart the political The SLYA has expressed its and tradition, the social and po- awakening which has gripped gratitude and appreciation towards revealed the tip of the iceberg. litical safeguards of the commu- them, the associations are also Dr. Sherpa for participating in the So where do we go from here? nity, including the various welfare getting more involved in social programmes for students. Now that the story is done, do we just walk away, forget about it? SPEEDING TAXI Police also came to know that DACOITY AND We couldn’t. the duo had relatives in Sonada, We all felt the need to do more, to take it one step DUMPS BODY Darjeeling, but by the time the THEFT AT ZOOM further. The dead body of an unidentified police raided the house the two Three masked and armed robbers We decided to sponsor Lakpa’s rehabilitation. youth was found in the jungle, 20 had already fled. The reason be- made away with a booty of Rs. feet below the road at Kumrey hind the murder is still unknown 10,000 from the house of one NB Today as he undergoes treatment and therapy at Dara approximately 12 kms from but investigations are continuing. Rai from Zoom Busty, Namrik on Hope Centre, we feel happy to have initiated the Rangpo Police Station by local 5 January earlier this month. The process. Along with Lakpa, we have sent two more villagers at noon on 5 January. robbers forcibly opened the boys to the same de-addiction centre. Money for this The unidentified body of window of the house and is being raised through contributions made by the youth showed him to be crime watch threatened the family members friends and even some strangers who have donated around 20-25 years old. He into handing over the cash. The for the initiative. was wearing blue jeans and an RAPE VICTIM criminals are said to have come orange and blue T-shirt. MURDERED from across the border We have now decided to take the initiative fur- The youth is suspected to have ther. Get more involved. Sukmit Lepcha, a 12 year old girl On the same day, barely 1 km been strangulated with a thin, syn- was found raped and strangulated away, unknown persons broke We are launching the NOW! Fight Against Drug thetic rope. The body also showed at Budang Busty, West Sikkim. into the Namrik Church and took Abuse Fund. The money collected will be used for deep and sharp cuts above the left The decomposed body of Sukmit away musical instruments worth launching awareness campaigns, sponsoring youth ear and had severe head injuries. was found at Budang Busty on Rs. 8,000. Police suspect the Some laborers working on the for de-addiction and working out a long-term reha- December 20, almost a week af- church burglary to be the handi- roadside gave the police the first bilitation plan for recovering addicts. But we can- ter she had been killed. work of the same gang involved lead. According to them a taxi [SK not fight the battle alone. We request our readers to The police team led by OC RB in the Zoom dacoity. However, no 04/5451] was seen speeding past Dahal and SI Jyoti Chettri progress has been made on the contribute generously towards this fund. Donations the uncarpeted road a little earlier launched a search operation on case so far. can be made vide cheque to NOW! with a covering the same day. The taxi was headed December 15, after an FIR was letter marking the cause or in cash at the office. The towards Pakyong. Police located filed by the victim’s brother. In- the owner of the taxi who said that SUICIDE contributions raised in this fashion will be published vestigations showed that Sukmit the taxi had been hired for the day 19 year old, Roma Rai was in subsequent issues of NOW! and monthly details was last seen with 20-year-old by Rupesh Tamang and Amit found hanging from a tree at on how the funds have been utilised will be simi- Passang Tamang who hailed from Tamang, residents of Damlakha Pangthang on January 3. Roma, larly published. the same village. Interestingly, and Chalamthang village. The who left home on January 2, os- Passang had participated enthusi- It will however take more than just funds to battle owner also identified the body of tensibly to visit her dead astically in the search operation. substance abuse. Recovered addicts need to be re- the murdered youth as belonging grandfather’s memorial, never Under relentless questioning, habilitated into the society and on this front, busi- to Chet Kumar, of Jhapa, Nepal, returned home. A verbal com- however, Passang Tamang con- who had been residing in Pakyong plaint was lodged by her father ness houses can earmark positions in organisations fessed that he had first raped and for the past three years. when the young girl who was where such candidates can be provided employment then strangled the victim. He has A search for the suspects led preparing for her board exams provided they meet the job requirements. been charged under sections the police to Sonada, Darjeeling did not return home. A day later, 376/511/302 of IPC and is at Substance abuse is a social problem which re- where they located the van which she was found dead hanging quires community participation to solve, hence this Rongyek Jail. from a tree near the memorial. had blood stains on it. appeal in the public domain. Let’s hope that together we can make a difference. Print Marriage Cards with a wide -NOW! variety of cards and designs at the For further details and suggestions on how we can most competitive price. make the campaign against rising substance abuse Getting more effective, please contact us at NOW! Gairi Gaon, FOR MORE DETAILS CONTACT: Solomon Rai, Below Dr. HK Chettri’s Clinic Tadong, Gangtok, East Sikkim or call us at 270949 or Married? Tibet Road, Gangtok. Ph: 9434178989, 224654 email [email protected]

CMYK 7 8; NOW! ; 07-13 Jan, 2004 RECAPSIKKIM State to Experts compensate local victims of start anti-Assamese mayhem in with Aho Bihar a NOW REPORT

GANGTOK: The Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling has sanctioned in an amount of Rs. 10,000 each to the seven persons from the State who were assaulted and robbed of their belongings when they were Sikkim’s travelling separately by Brahmaputra Mail and Guwahati- Dadar Express on 12 November earlier last year. organic These seven Sikkimese were among those railway passengers from the North-east who were assaulted and looted at various rail- march way stations in Bihar on that fate- ful day during the peak of Assam- Bihar violence. Amongst the SAGAR CHETTRI seven, three were students, one AHO YANGTAM, EAST was an IRB constable and three SIKKIM: A training programme were villagers. on organic farming was held for The Chief Minister had already farmers at Aho Yangtam block, Singing the marching tune for Sikkim’s dreams of going organic at Aho Yangtam expressed serious concern over East Sikkim on 12 January, Mon- the lives and property of the pas- day, at the house of the panchayat Maple Orgtech. Veteran Gora sub-division, spoke about the dis- even sang a song pledging to turn sengers from Sikkim travelling by vice-president. The programme, Subba from the village was the advantages of using chemical fer- Sikkim into an organic state. trains that pass through Bihar and organized by the Horticulture and chief guest for the programme. tilizers and encouraged them to Speaking to NOW!, Aho has written separate letters to the Agriculture departments in asso- The training programme cov- switch to organic farming some- Panchayat president, Bir Man Deputy Prime Minister, Union ciation with Maple Orgtech [In- ered Lower Aho, Yangtam, thing that the policy-makers have Subba, who seems convinced Minister for DONER and Chief dia] Pvt. Ltd., taught the farmers Bashilaka, Khongsi and Senti already committed the state to. about EM technology being the Ministers of Bihar and Assam re- on the benefits of organic farm- blocks. From these five villages, Palden Dorjee Lama, Horticul- cheapest and best option for vil- questing them to ensure safety of ing and the making of organic ma- farmers were selected to receive ture Inspector, also stressed on the lagers, said that the government the lives and properties of passen- nure through effective Microor- the EM technology free of cost for harmful effects of chemical farm- vision of turning Sikkim into an gers from Sikkim passing through ganism [EM] technology. the first year from the govern- ing. This was followed by an in- organic state was very commend- Bihar and to take adequate mea- More than 80 local people ment. From the second year on- teractive session in which farmers able. sures to avoid unpleasant inci- took the training which was also wards they would have to share were encouraged to pose questions Maple Orgtech has a three year dents in the future. attended by many officials from costs with the government. to the experts present. To drive contract with the state govern- The cheques to the seven vic- both the departments, along with Addressing the gathering, ST home the point, two inspectors ment to turn 100 villages in tims have been handed over to the trainers and technicians from Bhutia, Deputy Director, Pakyong from the Horticulture department Sikkim fully organic. individuals. It’s the same with PCs. There’s only one original The one and only IBM PC. When it INVEST IN AN comes ORIGINAL PC. to performance INSIST ON IBM everything else is poor

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a NOW! pic Samduptse a hit with tourists even before official inauguration PURAN TAMANG everyday on a fare of Rs. 200 for The foundation stone of this the trip. Rs. 8 crore project was laid in NAMCHI: Sikkim’s homage to The statue, a lavish thanks- 1997 by the Dalai Lama, who took its patron saint, Guru giving to Sikkim’s patron saint a pony ride upto the site. Now, a Padmasambhava is ready at who blessed the land, stands road leads to the site. Samdruptse, 8 kms from Namchi, tall over the Samduptse hill Sources say that although the and it is already attracting visitors and sparkles in the winter sun statue is completely ready it will by the hundreds. The 135 ft tall attracting everyone’s attention. be a while before it is officially statue of Guru Rinpoche, which A marvel of architecture, the inaugurated. Apparently, the gov- can be seen from west and south project was brought to its ernment is keen to carpet the en- Sikkim and even as far as from present stage at the cost of Rs. tire road leading up to the statue Darjeeling offers a panoramic 6.76 crores. Some 500 work- and install a prayer room before view of Mt. Kanchendzonga, ers toiled at the site at one time having a senior religious leader Darjeeling, Kalimpong and the and more additions were made bless the opening. eastern border of Nepal. And it is to it as work progressed. Al- The project, commissioned by from these places, along with though not proposed in the the State Tourism Department and West Bengal and Bhutan that original plan, the Chief Min- overseen by the Do-Drupchen hordes of religious tourists come ister has reportedly sanctioned Chorten Trust, is a marvel of here every day. additional funds to accommo- workmanship. Intricate work and “This is a boon for Namchi. It date a full-fledged altar in the great attention along with the has put the place in the tourism complex where the devout can grandness of the project has en- map of India and the locals will offer prayers. sured that Samdruptse will be- now reap the benefits,” says MB The proposal to link the com- come a must-visit site for all tour- Rai, Manager, PCS, Namchi. plex to Namchi via a gondolia- ists arriving in Sikkim apart from Equally happy are the taxi driv- styled ropeway has also been those on the religious circuit to ers here who regularly ferry nearly cleared and should be in place make a stop at this south district a hundred visitors to the complex within two years. headquarter. Namchi learns the tourism RNTCP ropes, forms tourism LAUNCHED development society a NOW! REPORT Tourism Development Corpora- tion, PK Dong, in his address said NAMCHI: A programme on that publicity of any kind is help- AT MAZI Ecotourism-cum-Planning was ful for any destination to find a held here at Zilla Panchayat place on the tourism map and Bhawan on 9 January earlier this stressed on the need for wide pub- month. licity to promote Namchi. GOAN The programme was jointly The workshop also included a organized by the Ecotourism Con- question and answer round on a NOW! REPORT servation Society of Sikkim sustainable tourism. [ECOSS] along with the State In- The Chief Guest in her address JORETHANG: A one day Re- stitute of Rural Development, said that a joint effort and com- vised National Tuberculosis Con- Karfectar, South Sikkim and was munity participation was essential trol Programme was held at Mazi attended by the DC South, all Dis- to develop tourism in Namchi. Goan on January 9, a highly TB trict officers, Zilla Adhakshya (S), She also expressed her gratitude infected area. The programme NGOs, hoteliers, and members to ECOSS and SIRD for taking was organized by Gharelu Samaj, from the business community. the initiative for the same. She a local NGO. The programme, which fo- further stated that the follow up The programme was chaired cused on village Tourism and its meeting in this regard would be

by the KP Gurung, a social activ- management started with the held by the 20January at the same TIGER MOVES: Namleys in Tibet Road know that there’s ist, who was the Chief Guest on lighting of the butter lamp by P. venue. nothing like a game of ‘baag chaal’ under the warm winter the occasion and CDPO, ICDS Lepcha, Zilla Adhakshya, South, The programme concluded sun. a NOW! pic department, South District was followed by introduction of the with the formation of Namchi the Special Guest. More than 100 participants. Tourism Development Society locals participated in the PD Rai, Chairman, ECOSS, (NTDS) adhoc committee under Somnolent bureaucracy, Chamling’s Programmee. spoke on the tourism develop- the supervision of S Pradhan Joint The resource person, Dr. Lalita ment of Gangtok and the present Director, SIRD. The executive Singh, Sr. DTO, Namchi General scenario while KN Bhutia, Vice members are: Chairman, P. next target Hospital, in her address explained Chairman, ECOSS, focused on Lepcha, Zilla Adhakshya (S), Vice undertaken in his constituency the meaning and importance of tourism products and their devel- Chairmen, V. Chauhan, D.C. (S) the hospital was the biggest de- under the SDF and maintained DOTS, the easy care for TB and opment and adverse impacts. Mr. and B.M. Rai, Upadhakshya (S), velopmental activity ever under- SDF was the only party with on counseling and awareness on Bhutia said that Namchi was now General Secretary, Sonam taken in Ranka. genuine concern for the down- HIV-AIDS. gradually acquiring the status of Lepcha, Joint Secretary, K. Thatal KT Gyaltsen, area MLA, trodden and that all others The CDPO also spoke on the a potential tourism center. and Treasurer, T. Prashad. Eleven Rumtek, while addressing the were making only hollow facilities available with the De- The executive director, Sikkim other members were also chosen. gathering said that under SDF, promises. partment of Nourishment and Sikkim had seen a marked im- There is no denying that the Nutrition and on the various ICDS provement in its image at the political circles are abuzz with Schemes while Mr. Gurung Kids Course Centre and even the interna- activity and the intensity will only stressed on the need to hold such in Computers tional arena. He also listed the heighten as the elections [even if awareness programme more fre- Classes going on. Contact: CITI COMPUTERS several developmental works it is only the LS poll] draw nearer. quently. Tibet Road, Gangtok. Phone: 220866

CMYK 9 10; NOW! ; 07-13 Jan, 2004 DEVELOPMENT RHENOCK IN MOURNING SBI & MARUTI announces

GET A CAR in just ONE DAY SCHEME a NOW! pic ALL YOU NEED ARE: - FROM pg 3 accused has reportedly admitted much triggered a backlash PASSPORT SIZED PHOTOGRAPHS show of solidarity and sympathy to having been drunk at the time against nonlocals as it has PROOF OF INCOME towards the bereaved families. of committing the crime and scared the residents. Indira PROOF OF RESIDENCE Earlier, fearing for their safety, several locals insist that he was Pradhan, a zilla panchayat PROOF OF IDENTITY the accused person’s family also a known drug addict. member from Rongli, spoke of were housed in the thana here Also being debated among the how all parents in the area were and later escorted out of the public is the unrecorded presence now paranoid about the safety of & EMI ONLY Rs. 1660 / LAKH state, when they said they of “outsiders” in the State. “There their children. wanted to leave. The accused is are several non-locals here running “Parents don’t let the children Personal Banking Advance Centre now in custody and will soon STATE BANK businesses without proper out in the evening anymore. The NH 31 A Cintury Bhawan stand trial for double murder and documents or on trade licences suspicious of everyone and even OF INDIA Gangtok Ph No: 221165 possible rape. sublet to them. In the present case the children, even though they Udip Thapa, a panchayat from we were able to arrest the accused don’t completely understand what Rhenock, admits that the while he was still in Sikkim. What if has happened, are a scared lot situation was tense on Sunday he had crossed Rangpo? How preferring to stay indoors most of evening and that it was only after would anyone have known how to the time,” she said. NOTICE he and his colleagues intervened trace him them?” ask locals while This fear will take some time to in the earnest that the locals could referring to earlier incidents when go away and now that the accused This is published for general information be pacified and the situation non-locals from Nepal have has been nabbed, the law, too, will that five leafs of unused sales tax decla- saved from going out of hand. committed crimes in Sikkim and take its own course. In the He, however, added that the then disappeared leaving the meanwhile, one hopes that the ration Form XX bearing serial no. 306026 incident brought to fore the investigating agencies with no social problems and other issued to 306030, issued to M/s Narpat Singh several social problems like clues of where they came from or that the crime has brought to fore growing substance abuse and went to. are addressed before a repeat is Singhi of MG Marg, Gangtok, have been alcoholism among the youth that Incidentally, the double- suffered – in Rhenock or in any plague this border town. The murder at Rhenock has not so other part of the State. lost from the custody of the dealer on 14.12. 2003. The said forms are hereby notified to be Bhandari has sops for everyone treated as invalid and cancelled. Any per- Contd from pg 5 The meet was attended by Thukchuk Lachungpa. Other con- son/s found using the said Forms shall be most of the party top-brass in the gress youth leaders also spoke at the liable to penal consequences under the line. Mr. Bhandari has also com- state and some 3,000 party sup- meet. With the meet, Bhandari also mitted himself to withdraw the ban porters who drove into this south finalised the Congress candidate for law. district subdivision in some 250- the area [Ralang electoral constitu- on grazing in forests and assured Joint Commissioner that cardamom plantations along 300 jeeps. Among those who ency] hinting that “the people” had the road reserves taken away by the spoke were congress working already chosen their candidate in Income & Commercial Taxes Division government would be handed back. president Namkha Gyaltsen, vice Chozang Bhutia, a retired govern- Finance Department On the political front, he has presidents, K. N. Upreti and ment servant. promised to do away with party system for Panchayat elections. Panchayats will not be nominated give yourself the advantage by the party or the government but will be chosen by the villagers Slim, lightweight and Compact themselves Design from Sharp Original And the list of promises Straight Optical System stretches on, but before that Mr. RealiseRealise YourYour PowerfulPowerful Bhandari sought to convince the Sealed Optics gathering that only a national party High Brightness & High and not a regional party could gov- PresentationsPresentations OnOn TheThe GoGo Contrast ern Sikkim. He also said that people of the state were fed up with re- Advanced Compatability gional parties and now wanted a with High End PCs, government to be run by a national Workstations and DTV party in the state. He also accused the ruling gov- Advanced Intelligent PG-M20X/M20SPG-M20X/M20S ernment of being incapable of pro- Compression TRUE XGA / SVGA MOBILE DLP PROJECTOR tecting the rights of the Limbu and Enhanced Up-Scaling Tamang communities by pointing out SHARP authorised dealers in town: that the CM had failed in provide seat New Progressive Mode RAMESH & BROTHERS reservation for the LTs in the state as- Video Noise Reduction sembly. He promised the seats and Tibet Road, Near Sadar Thana Gangtok, SIkkim - 737101 also the protection of the existing res- Ph: 222190, 221202 & 228327 ervation for BLs in Sikkim.

10 CMYK DESPATCHES 07-13 Jan, 2003; NOW! 11

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CMYK 11 12; NOW! ; 07-13 Jan, 2004 Barely a year back, few people, even in Sikkim, could place Kopchay in everyday seeking that miracle cure that only the Guruji of Kopchey can remote east Sikkim on the map. Most of the residents were sustenance deliver. The village is basking in a mini tourism boom and almost all farmers and frankly speaking there was no “local economy” to speak locals have been weaned away from agriculture to the hospitality trade. of. But that was then. Today, Kopchay enjoys regular jeep services from Everyone and everything at Kopchay seems to have been touched by the Siliguri and even Kakarvitta on the Indo-Nepal border. Electricity has magical aura of Nirmal Mangar, known among the believers simply as been brought to the village which now has a concrete footpath leading “Guruji.” SARIKAH ATREYA on the fame and the attendant notoriety that to it instead of a kutcha track. Hundreds show up at this tiny hamlet Kopchay enjoys nowadays and how the locals are handling things... POWERED BY FAITH KOPCHAY [SUDUNGLAKHA], East Sikkim: All roads now lead to Kopchay - to the humble abode of Nirmal Mangar, popularly known as “Guruji”, for that one miracle which will cure people of all ailments. As thousands of people from all over the State, the Darjeeling Hills, Siliguri, and as far as Nepal, Bhutan, Delhi and Mumbai, make a beeline for a darshan of this faith healer, the otherwise nondescript village of Kopchay suddenly finds itself to be the more sought after destination in Sikkim. For a tiny hamlet that till recently sustained itself pri- marily on agriculture, the evolution of Nirmal Mangar from an ordinary villager to Guruji, has brought unprecedented publicity and business. The dramatic changes are obvious. Kopchay is now a known destination. There are direct taxi Khadas to Maggi and Lays chips. Toilet facilities have and the feel-good factor here is overwhelming. The ar- services from Siliguri and even Kakarvitta, on the Indo- come up along the trail at various places in the village. rival of miracle seekers which started with a trickle when Nepal border. The State Government after a visit by the Almost all the households in the village have turned Guruji first revealed his miraculous healing powers ear- Chief Minister has constructed an RCC footpath from the hoteliers and vendors. Some have even rented out their lier last year has surged now with most of the visitors ar- main road right up to Guruji’s house and the village is now fields to others who want to start a lodge or a canteen. riving from Nepal, Bhutan and Bihar. lit up in the nights by huge streets lamp. A PCO booth People from as far as Rangpo have set up lodges in the “Most Sikkimese have already visited Kopchay, but the connects the village with the rest of the world and devo- village to do a little “side business.” arrivals don’t seem to ebb. Now we are getting visitors tees can now avail of food and rural lodging facilities. Tem- The miracle cures provided by Guruji have provided from faraway places like Nepal, Bhutan and Bihar,” re- porary sheds have been set up in the fields to accommo- the village with unexpected gains. The local economy is veals a volunteer who helps monitor the traffic at Kopchey. date lodges, canteens and shops that sell everything from booming. Kopchay basks in an almost mystical identity - more on page 21

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12 CMYK VOL. 2 NUMBER. 24 NOW! rajdhani 07-13 Jan, 2003; NOW! 13 WHAT THE CAPITAL’S BEEN UP TO extras THE NOW! 8-PAGE SPECIAL

BetterBetter now, butbut obsolete obsolete infrastructureinfrastructure andand aging aging transmissiontransmission lineslines keep keep powerpower cutscuts alive

a NOW! REPORT It is that time of the year again when even layers of woolies don’t keep the cold from seeping in. The trusted room heater has to be kicked into action, but even as this contraption brings sensation back to the numb fingers and toes, the Power Department plays the dampener. Either the power supply trips or the pre-announced load-shedding comes into effect earlier than expected. All this is not new to either Gangtokians or the rest of Sikkim. Come winters and the power supply becomes erratic and heavy load-shedding becomes the norm. Those who suffer the most are students preparing for their Board examinations. The situation has however improved a lot in the past years and the Department now carries out load shedding for just an hour in THEY’VE GOT a day. The Department is faced with its own limitations. During winters, THEIR MOTORS RUNNING the demand outpaces the supply. This is because of low volume of accommodates adventure sports ties will do so under the banner water in the rivers, which leads enthusiasts. of Legend Riders. to less generation of electricity in “Basically we want everyone Over the weekend, although hey call themselves Hima the hydel projects that supply who loves Enfields to come un- biking as the primary focus, the layan Explorers. They are Sikkim. The entire State requires der one banner, as one big fam- participants also got some first into adventure sports. around 60 MW of electricity daily T ily and plan and execute expedi- hand knowledge on high altitude They ride the same machines. and during lean seasons like win- tions and stuff,” said one ardent survival tips and some very ba- And they came together on Sun- ters, the State generates only Bulleteer. He also went on to add sic mountain climbing tips which day at Jhamrul’s Motorcycle about 17 MW. This shortfall is met that this 2-day affair which in- preceeded the announcement Workshop on Indira Bye Pass through drawing power through volved briefing everybody about that all those who were interested here. the Eastern Grid. some basic Bullet maintenance and registered that day would Royal Enfield enthusiasts in the The sub-station at Melli is the by Jhamrul and his gang was also later get to go biking up to capital got together on Saturday and central point for importing power a test to see if every Bullet owner Gurudongmar in April 2004 as a Sunday in an exhibition-cum-Bullet into Sikkim. It has two incoming would actually turn up. Legend Rider. Some two dozens workshop organised by a few of bays - one from Rangeet and the “You see most of them are lon- Enfield enthusiasts took on the Gangtok’s hardcore Enfielders. other from Kalimpong. From ers if you’ve noticed. They ride alone, “Legend Riders” tag on the day The few dedicated riders who Melli, one line services south and go long distances alone [or some- and were then made privy to an- form the Himalayan Explorers west Sikkim and another trans- times in small groups] and this is just other humungous expedition on have been going around astride mits power to east and north dis- an event to encourage some form the anvil – an ambitious ride to their 350cc engines since 2000 tricts with a separate transmis- of interaction among Enfielders in Khardongla Pass in Ladakh and have now decided to make sion line servicing the capital. general,” adds another rider. slated for sometime in Septem- their alliance official in the form of Interestingly, it is not just reduced generation that forces load-shed- The group which has decided ber later this year. a club – Legend Riders, which ding and frequent power trips on the people. Apparently, the existing to label themselves as “Hima- You’ve been warned. Stay pre- falls under the parent organisation transmission lines are not “strong” enough to transmit the full load of layan Explorers,” which, when it pared for the boom of Enfields thun- of Himalayan Explorers which also Sikkim’s peak requirement. undertakes Enfield related activi- dering in unison on the highways. - TURN TO pg15 FOR MORE [email protected] ENTRY FEES: COUPLES Rs. 300, STAG Rs. 300 & LADIES FREE LOADING INCLUDING COUPON WORTH Rs. 100. ... 50%

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CMYK 13 14; NOW! ; 07-13 Jan, 2004 extras

“POWER” PLAY lections are just round the Ecorner. It could even be as early as March. You’d think that would send our politicos into a flurry of brainstorming activity? Oh you’d be surprised. One minister, in particular couldn’t care less. The other day he was seen hostel provided by the hospital. and heard at one of the new So what could be so terrible nightclubs in town demanding about that? It seems that many ‘happy times’ along with Trance of the nurses are married and music! Although it was only six in with family and have been stay- the evening and rather early to ing at rented premises nearby. chill, even by Gangtok standards, Now how can they all shift into the minister was heard shouting hostels, which they say are ‘let the music begin’. And who rooms divided only by plywood dare refuse him? Although there walls? That’s just one of the prob- were no other visitors, the lights lems. But faced with an adamant and music were turned on for him management that says move or and his henchmen. quit, most of them are in a real IN ANTICIPATION OF MAGHE SANKRANTI: Vegetable vendors with their stock of tubers at Even the thought of the Congress quandary. Gangtok’s last Sunday haat before Maghe Sankranti which gets underway on Wednesday holding an election rally at VERY STRANGE Ravangla the same day did not angtokians have been wait printers before trusting them. take a walk down the road. But top it all garbage lies strewn all seem to bother him. Bechara Ging with bated breath for the But there’s a silver lining to ev- please don’t wear your good over the place. To think that Congress Party. No one takes literary event of the year. The ery cloud. The book is now be- shoes. The jumble of water pipes, the area is peppered with tour- them seriously these days. book launch of ‘Strange Notes’ ing printed in the author’s many of which are broken, along ist lodges! Quite a Himalayan AISA KYON? has been postponed at least hometown of Kolkata. We can with the constant building activ- sojourn, it turns out to be for atients undergoing treatment three times since promised in only hope that the consignment ity that seems to be going on en- the many tourists who have Pat Central Referral Hospital October. At first we were told does not now get stolen on the sures that the road is always wet been fooled to stay here. As for better be careful. Please check that it was ‘technical reasons’, way! and slushy. the residents, wonder what medicines and ministrations that forced the delay but now WET! WET! WET! The road, all the way down to stops them from getting to- given at the wards. For the the truth is out. The author was he road to hell may be paved the last of the Arithang houses gether to do anything. The nurses there are at a foul mood ‘cheated’ by the printers, who Twith good intentions but the is broken in many places, with place, after all, is inhabited by these days. It’s all to do with the ran away with the huge ad- road to Arithang has only pot- water collecting to form large many educated bureaucrats, new decision of the hospital man- vance. Such a shame really! holes, broken water pipes and puddles. Potholes and lack of including the Chief Engineer, agement that makes it mandatory Other first time authors please garbage. If anyone in Gangtok streetlights make it an adven- UD&HD. for all nursing staff to stay at the check the antecedents of the wants the slum experience, just ture best avoided at night. To Associations band together to organise peace prayers

the gods for peace, harmony and in the recent past. and Restaurants Association, All mon purpose. The organising a NOW! REPORT general well-being of the people The organising committee Sikkim Liquor Vendors Associa- committee has also roped in of Sikkim in the new year. The consists of representatives from tion, Sikkim Motor Parts Dealers heads of various religious eventeen associations three-day puja will be held here the Sikkim Truck Owners Asso- Association, Gangtok Local Taxi organisations to perform the rites. representing professions at the Old Childen’s Park from 28 ciation, All Sikkim Govt. Drivers Drivers Association, Sikkim Bus While gurujis and pundits would Sas diverse as drivers to January onwards. Association, JN Road Taxi Driv- Workers Association, Sikkim be conducting havans and maha chemists to travel agents to liquor The decision to hold the Maha ers Association, North Sikkim Chemists Association, Sikkim yagya, rinpoches and lamas will vendors to hoteliers have an- Shanti Puja was taken at a meet- Taxi Jeep Owners/ Drivers Asso- Local Taxi Drivers Association, perform the Zintse Shapten. nounced plans to come together ing of the 17 associations held ciation, Sikkim Taxi Owners As- SNT Drivers & Conductors Asso- Christian priests and Muslim on the common platform of here at the Travel Agents’ Asso- sociation, Gangtok Mainline Taxi ciation and the Travel Agents As- Imams will also conducts special Sikkim Maha Shanti Puja ciation of Sikkim office here on 3 Jeep Drivers Association, United sociation of Sikkim. prayers during the puja. The Sai Organising Committee to con- January. The decision was Sikkim Taxi Jeep Drivers Asso- This is the first time that all the Samiti will perform bhajans and duct, as the name suggests, a spurred by the spate of accidents, ciation, Chorten-Deorali Taxi Driv- major associations of the State kirtans throughout the three days grand prayer meet to propitiate mishaps and murders in the State ers Association, Sikkim Hotels have come together for a com- of puja, it is learnt. HO! HO! HO! Santa left behind his sack of goodies at Baker’s Cafe. Be There on 17 January 2004 (Saturday) and collect FREE GIFTS! returns

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14 CMYK extras 07-13 Jan, 2003; NOW! 15

Really down. Shopkeepers of all types are cribbing that their workday has been curtailed. Take a walk Is a Rethink on MG Marg possible? around and you will find hardly any one minding the shops. Enquire and you will be told that they are either at home watching TV or taking a walk on the mall. Inconvenienced customers have simply taken their business elsewhere. Hotels have dried up as tourists can no longer conveniently check in by parking in front of these hotels as they used to earlier. Restaurants and bars are angry as patrons have changed their ‘addas.’ Hardware merchants and grocers who have nothings to do with tourists report that these formerly peak business hours have become the slowest as business has virtually dried up. During emergencies, the old, sick and infirm have to be carried piggyback to hospital as it takes too long to arrange permissions to brings cars in. The list is unending. But I’ll quit here for truly god and government work in mysterious ways. What else can explain the fact that first the children’s park was converted into a taxi stand then converted in a supermarket while on the our paper has boldly carried articles and let resentatives, the people of Gangtok other hand the main shopping market ters about the closure of M G Marg, and the have no proper platform to voice their was converted into a taxi stand and then true feeling of many people on the subject. Con- grievances. Y converted into a children’s park! Truly, gratulations and keep up the work for yours is the only As far as MG Marg is concerned, what’s going on? Do we have any plan- voice in the multitude that seeks to bring forth the truth. we’ve seen it when it was fully open and ners left or are projects thought of and Your articles prove beyond doubt that your paper is a we’ve seen it when it is fully closed to traffic between 5 to implemented on whim and fancy? true friend of the people by giving expression to the 9 in the evenings. The opinion is truly divided as to which Well since we are in the mode of trying out new ideas voices of dissidence, which everyone knows is the is better. There are many who think the move is great may we humbly suggest the Buddhist way and offer very essence of democracy. By telling the people and there are others who think it sucks. Since opinions the middle path. Could we, for a while, try out the fol- where they may be going wrong, you help them cor- are well and truly divided on the subject, let us try and list lowing suggestion at MG Marg at between 5 to 9 pm rect the mistakes and tackle problems before they them for the record. also before confirming this regulation forever - Can become ego hassles and unmanageable headaches. The reasons for liking the idea are that the town is free we make one side of MG Marg a walking zone while The pros and cons on the closure of MG Marg for of traffic, smoke and noise pollution in the evenings. The allowing vehicles to ply on the other side – one way traffic every evening is still a much debated topic town gets swept clean once again in the evenings. The only! To the inhabitants of MG Marg and to our custom- among the locals. traffic cops are happy, as they do not have much to do ers it doesn’t matter which way vehicle are allowed to Sadly, beyond a few cryptic sentences from some besides sit at either end of town and turn vehicles back. ply as long as they are allowed to come to town. officials, the government’s views are still not known. For entertainment, every once in a while, the people, apart Let restricted parking be permitted for private and In private, the entire bureaucracy and government ma- from the odd rock show, also get the perverse delight of government vehicles and taxis prohibited from park- chinery admits that this measure is self-defeating, a seeing vehicle get hauled away by the big red machine. ing any where during the stipulated hours. There is no colossal mistake and has been ruinous for the busi- Cabs go off the road and many drivers now have happy urgent need for blocking off the whole of MG Marg to nesses located on the said stretch. Customers have wives. One can actually stroll around town without run- traffic. It hasn’t really improved things so will the gov- been greatly inconvenienced and nobody is comfort- ning the risk of getting run over. Long invisible shop-fronts ernment please reconsider since many livelihoods are able with the idea even after five months of living with have become visible and window-shopping has once stake! the regulation. again become fun. Since the shopkeepers don’t have So, may we humbly question why this practice con- much to do, all are free to bargain. ANITA PRADHAN, New Market tinues? There, being no municipality with elected rep- On the flip side, business is down across the board. Free coaching at Deorali Better now, but obsolete infrastructure and aging transmission lines keep power cuts alive

-FROM pg 13 Faced with obsolete infra- geysers, electric irons and structure, aging transmission other electrical gadgets dur- The existing 66 KV line comes lines and greater demand and ing the peak hours i.e. 5 pm from Siliguri via Rangeet to Melli low generation, the Department to 9 pm. and then fans out. There are has no choice but to restore to “Switching off the lights when many constraints and problems load shedding especially during not required, replacing bulbs with with this line, like frequent break- the lean months. compact florescent lamps and downs and low voltage. This line “We have been making per- not using compound lights and is not sufficient for carrying the sistent efforts to maintain regu- flood lights will help mitigate the State’s requirement of power. lar power supply in the State problem to a great extent,” Mr. At present, the Melli sub-sta- but there are many constraints. Pradhan said. tion is under extensive renovation We are also aware of the fact The Department has also re- board exams in 2004. and expansion. It was con- that during these months, stu- stricted the use of electric a NOW! REPORT The classes, which started on structed by NHPC long time back dents are preparing for their wielding sets, industrial loads oaching classes for class 15 December, will continue till 14 and was handed over to the exams. We have therefore, is- and motors of any kind from 6 X and X11 are on at February. Tests will also be con- Sikkim government in 1983. sued some guidelines to our am to 9 am and 5 pm to 9 pm, Deorali Girls Senior Sec- ducted during the duration of the C “The on-going upgradation consumers to help maintain till further notice. Anyone found ondary School, Gangtok. Around classes. According to the teach- work at the sub-station will be regular power supply during using electricity for such pur- 260 students have been availing ers, these are downloaded from completed in six month’s time. these lean months. We appeal poses could face disconnection of the free coaching given by the the CBSE website which has We have already started the con- the consumers to co-operate of power supply along with six teachers who form the faculty. been especially designed for this struction of another 132 KV trans- with us,” the Secretary said. heavy fine. The classes which are being year’s examination. mission line. Once this is com- In order to manage the The situation is not as grim as sponsored by the Social Welfare While most students are from pleted, the State will be integrated power shortfall, the Depart- a couple of years ago and if you Department and carried out by Gangtok, some come from as far with the transmission network of ment has started load shed- want to go through the evenings the Scheduled Caste Entrepre- as Rhenock, Temi Tarku, Central the eastern region and we will ding for 30 minutes at differ- without missing your favourite neurs Service Cooperative Soci- Pandam and Lingdok. then get uninterrupted power ent places in the East District saans-bahu serial on telle, then ety Limited has been organized Free coaching classes were supply,” assures DD Pradhan, from 5 pm to 9 pm. It has also lay off the electric room heater. for the scheduled caste, sched- started four years back and the Principal Secretary, Power De- appealed to the all the con- Opt for the hot water bottle in- uled tribe and other backward results have proven to be very partment. sumers not to use heaters, stead. class students who will take the successful.

CMYK 15 16; NOW! ; 07-13 Jan, 2004 extras

Question of the week:

APTECH What is the file Stylish dates for the new year COMPUTER EDUCATION extension of a word www.aptech_education.com document file? he 2004 IPR calendar is out and it is looking good. .gif The department has cho- T .jpeg sen orchids as the theme this computer year and the calendar showcases .doc 12 species of the flower for the 12 months. It couldn’t have been literacy .txt easy short-listing the orchids in a land which has more than 500 contest species of the flower? RUSH YOUR ENTRIES TO NOW! and ONE lucky “Initially the department had correct entry will get a 50% DISCOUNT on wanted to do a mix of landscapes Diploma & Hardware Courses in APTECH and orchids, but after we eyeDENTIFY & WIN Identify the venue shown With the initial stock of winter, the jackets are lined with alongside and 13,000 calendars almost fur and wool while the summer one lucky showed over, the demand for this well- jackets are polyfilled. correct entry will them around produced and excellently printed HIDESIGN, real leather win RELIANCE 45 slides, they de- calendar seems only to grow. crafted jackets are available in RECHARGE cided to use a single lamb leather and wrinkle free COUPON theme,” says Manoj Aggarwal of WINTER TURN leather. However, prices are quite WORTH Metroprints, who has produced steep for these premium brand RS. 200/- from the calendar. HIP leather jackets with a starting Manoj, who spent consider- Style, the new and already price of Rs. 4,000. The third able time locating and procuring very popular outlet for mens- brand is the unistyle im- Cindrella Mobiles MG MARG, GANGTOK. PH: 229897 the photographs is quite happy wear, located beside age Pepe jackets which with the response the calendar Rockland Shoes, are more affordable. NAME:...... has generated. MG Marg, has Apart from these ANSWER: ...... “I got a lot of appreciation for jackets, check out recently added LAST WEEK’S ANSWER: TASHI VIEW POINT last year’s calendar and this year three new the stretchable too, everyone has liked it. I’m re- range of jack- corduroy trousers WINNER: Ram Avtar Sharma, Ranipool Bazaar ally happy,” he exudes. ets to keep you in comfort fit and He’s especially happy about warm this winter. in both dark and the quality of the printing. Tycoon Jackets, light colours. The “It’s quite challenging to print made in New Delhi shop is slowly A correct entry (decided in black. You want solid black but and called the ‘Num- turning into a one-stop by draw of lots) will win 2 it’s not easy. This time we got ex- ber 1’ jacket in India by shopping destination for FREE TICKETS to the actly what we wanted,” he adds. Style proprietor Anand menswear. Thirani is already latest flick playing at The calendars are available Thirani, is now available here. planning for the summers, when VAJRA CINEMA, Digital for Rs. 30 in the market. You can Made for both winter and sum- he hopes to bring more fashion Surround Sound. also buy them in bulk from the de- VA RA Last week’s answers: mer wear, you can have them in to the streets. partment for Rs. 25 per copy. MOVIEj Sanjay Dutt & LOC various designs and colours. For Kargil WINNER: Choden Sherpa, Zero Point

1. ContestWho portrays Forrest Gump in the movie by the same ELECTRONIC GOODS TO name? 2. What is the latest instalment of Lord Of The Rings BECOME CHEAPER called? ll those who have waited to get personal computers and cell phones are advised to NAME: wait a little longer. In less than a month you can buy the same thing for much less. The ADDRESS: Anew excise duty announced by the union government will make computers and laptops cheaper by Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 2,000 while cell phone prices, particularly high-end ones, could drop by Rs. 1,000. However, the prices of entry-level cell phones will fall only marginally by about Rs. 500. - QUESTION OF THE WEEK - “Although it has been announced, the benefits will not be immediately available. We have to Which coffee is often regarded finish our old stock first,” informs Ashok Sarda of Amber Enterprises. Although what old the best in the world? stocks have to do with new excise cuts is not clear, he confirms that only by February 15 will the new prices come into play in Sikkim. The Union Finance Minister has, however, made Jamaican Blue Mountain clear that the concessions will be immediately available. Coffee Arabica Excise duty on computers has been reduced from 16 to 8 percent, while customs duty cut Capuccino on cell phones were cut from 10 to 5 percent. Recorded VCDs and DVDs have been completely exempted from excise and will cost less too. fresh everyday NAME: ...... “Yes, the prices of computers which have been falling over the last two years are now even cheaper and have become affordable for all,” offers Rajeev of Rajeev Electronics. ADDRESS: ...... Now, with an estimated cut of Rs. 2,000, you can get a branded personal computer for even coffee as low as Rs. 28,000. Last week’s answer: A Professional Coffee So, will these incentives mean better business or simply lower profits for the retailers? CONTEST Maker WINNER: Bunty Sharma, Ranipool “It should translate into more business, that’s what the whole impetus is all about after all,” Tick the right answer and rush entries to NOW! office at Tadong to adds Sarda. With the duty on capital goods used to manufacture electronic goods also scrapped, prices WIN A COFFEE & SNACKS COUPON of other household amenities like refrigerators, washing machines and television are also expected to come down making this summer the season for shopping. WORTH Rs. 100 AT BAKER’S CAFE,MG MARG, GANGTOK

16 CMYK POETRYSTORIESPOETRYSTORIESPOETRYSTORIESPOETRYLiTSTORIESNOWPOETRYSTORIESPOETRYSTORIESPOETRY 07-13 Jan, 2003; NOW! 17 WHEN THE HILLS WRITE

WENDY MAIR Games Of Fate LEPCHA athy! Do you have even the slightest idea as to Meet him once… He’s the kind of person I know you will where on earth Jack is? And, wherever he is, like. Cathy, are you still there?! Will you come home Cwhether married or still single, waiting for you, like honey?” you’ve done? As for me, I believe, he’s well off; happily … married somewhere, while you’re here pining for him “I think I will, Mom.” since you met him last… eleven years back! You are Gosh! It felt good to be home. Flowers blooming ev- being absurd!” erywhere, birds chirping. I felt alive and happy after so “Oh! Now come on Sally, I am not waiting for any- long. And after a tearful reunion, I went to my room to rest body. I am just concentrating on my work, that’s all.” awhile. It was just like I’d left it, looking desolate and iso- “Okay, so, you don’t still love him? Then you’re lated just the way I’d been, when I was far from home, meeting my friend tomorrow, he is a nice, decent from love, for too long. I was supposed to meet the man chap. I bet you’ll like him.” [chosen by my parents] the next day. I had already de- “Tomorrow? I’m sorry, I’m too busy. Maybe when cided what I would do. I would apologize for wasting his the right time comes…” time and bid him goodbye. Anyway, this reason really “As if I don’t know. My dear Cathy, if left up to you, helped me as an excuse to quit my job. I really needed to the time will never ever be right. No more arguing, you’re live, now, in my hometown alone… meeting him tomorrow at 2 pm in Bluehills Corner. His name’s John. I’ll be there with him, waiting for you and if The day was here, the doorbell rang. Mom went to you don’t come, you know me… So, ciao, and see you welcome the guests while my father with lots of bottled sharp at 2.” questions on his mind gave me a concerned look. “I know you’re surprised dad, but…” Sally, my soul mate, my mother hen… always trying to “Cathy, whatever you decide, I’ll support you. I just want organize my so-called [by her] “abnormal” life. So many you to be happy. Come, let’s meet them.” years had flown by and I never realised it had been eleven years later, alone but not lonely, unaware of where he They were in the garden, mom introduced me to all of years since… was, how he was, just believing in him, in us, in our love, them, aunt, uncle, his sister, his brother, but he wasn’t “Cathy, let’s get married and then we’ll part to continue as he told me to. And, almost after a decade, I realized, I there. Funny creature. When I served everyone tea, I our further studies. Wherever you are, at least I’ll know was tired of this life. I wanted to settle down now, in my suspected something fishy was afoot… And then Mom you are somewhere still being mine.” own hometown. said, “Cathy, go and meet him. He’s at the pond.” “Don’t be funny Jack, we’re both still young and there’s I got up obediently and proceeded towards the pond, still a long way to go. Let’s just wait and see what fates The phone rang just as I entered my apartment, [re- some part of me still hoping for a miracle, for Jack to be our lives deal us. Anyways, doesn’t really matter who I turning from my appointment with John, he was nice!]. there, by the pond, waiting for me! I jerked myself into the am in your life or how far I am, for wherever we’ll be, I’ll “Hello! Cathy?” real world and saw a figure by the pond, tall, broad shoul- be loving you… always.” “Hi mom, what a pleasant surprise. So, how’s every- dered, well cut suit..! “And I’ll wait for the time when you’ll be mine, forever thing?” “Excuse me?” and always!” “Fine, honey, actually I called to tell you something very He didn’t turn towards me, merely said “Hi Cathy!” And we lay in each others arms counting the last few important….” Had I heard that voice before? hours we had left with each other. Soon, we would be “Mom, is everything fine? You sound quite tense. Are “Hi! Why did you want to meet me here? And he turned, miles and oceans away. He would leave for the US for you all alright?” faced me. his business studies just the day after I left for Mumbai for “We are all fine. Actually… You see… Well, we have “Jack?” He knelt before me and with a rose in his hand, mine. Time just flew by… One moment I was at the air- seen a boy for you. A businessman, an NRI, I understand took me back eleven years when in the same way he’d port waving him goodbye and here I was now, eleven you’re not ready, but we still feel you should give it a try. asked, “Cathy, will you marry me?” wastedbeauty it was you Somewhere far and deep In the woods Idiotic it must seem I found the path lost, To those of genius Wildly weeded, Of how one can so wastefully indulge In my revisited journey; Make so much of useless fuss And I was in a fix, For so little as a teardrop But a mission led me on. That fell in an ocean’s bone But then this truly Somewhere far and away Is a mad man’s cacophony In a country side To his love true, this has to make no sense I met a maiden This final symphony. Is all it implies In my first odyssey. Before all is engulfed by edifice Her simple beauty : Thought I’d do well to share this The blinking eyes, That The giggling face Forever I’d never known Day and night haunted me Till the embrace of my true ardour. Even in the bustle Nectar I had no taste of Of my home-town. Before that kiss of holy enamour Blindness I’d never seen Some summers later Before that day when my eyes needed no In my next tour beauty I met again that lass, I’d never known that I’d ever see But like the weeded path, Such madness I never felt could taunt me Grooved and lost, That I’d see illusions in reality I found I couldn’t trace Simply drove me over the edge and then It was you who stopped my brain The beauty in her being: crazy Drove me insane, Yes, it was you The face that mesmerized Paranoid and delusionary Still then I’d like to let things go by and Now haunted me no more! Have become my synonyms. say And you’d like to know how this happened? Thank You. GEOFFREY RAI, RAVANGLA I’ll tell you anyways, It was you. PRAMOD HINGMANG

CMYK 17 18; NOW! ; 07-13 Jan, 2004 extras

ooking slim is turning into a national obsession. But FIT FOR LIFE: WATCH THE TIMING the bottom line is the same. Cut the calories or ex Harvey and Marilyn Diamond’s Fit For Life diet is Lercise. Better still, do both. based on the premise that food should only be eaten Eating a meal is anything but simple. You have to make in certain combinations and at certain times of the sure each meal is well balanced: high in nutrients and day. Its authors claim that carbohydrates and pro- fibre, adequate in calories, low in sugar and with no tein eaten together, for example, ‘clog’ the system trans fats. Try analysing the health quotient of the leading to fat formation and toxicity. last meal you had and it would probably take all day. For lunch and dinner, you can either have a That’s what makes diet gurus so popular: they do all carbs-based meal with wholegrains, beans and the calculations, list the dietary evils and tell you veggies or a protein meal, which would be what to eat. The advice may not be nutritively sound protein and veggies. Don’t ever combine the – for example, Dr Robert Atkins of the Atkins Diet two. Dairy foods and refined sugar are revolution fame recommends nutritional supplements banned and so is fruit with a meal. and helpfully hawks his own products – but it defi- Drawbacks: It is not a balanced plan nitely helps you shed a few kilos. and the food combinations it advocates Diet plans change with almost every season, and now can create zinc, vitamin D, vitamin B- the fervent fans of fad diets have a new idol to venerate: complex and calcium deficiencies. the South Beach Diet. Developed by the American car- Since it bans dairy foods, it may cre- diologist Arthur S. Agatston for his overweight patients, ate protein deficiency in vegetar- this diet is the newest national obsession in the US, prom- ians. ising to edge out Dr Atkins’ diet from its most-favoured WEIGHT WATCHERS: status. COUNTING CALORIES Like all other food-watch gurus, Agatston has penned down The Weight Watchers his theories in his bestselling The South Beach Diet: The programme is a low-calorie Delicious, Doctor-Designed, Foolproof Plan for Fast and diet plan where no foods are Healthy Weight Loss, and made millions for himself and his forbidden, but you are re- publishers. stricted to a certain num- TOO MANY FADS… marker that re- ber of daily ‘points’. Sim- ply put, if you don’t have The face-off between the good, the bad and the unhealthy acts in negative a weight watchers guide types of food has left most people confused. But what turns a ways with certain to help count food points, simple meal into a diet revolution? “The notion of a quick-fix foods. Plus, indi- you have to severely restrict your weight loss programme is central to all fad diets. Instead of viduals have vary- making adjustments to our overall lifestyle, people want to ing levels of stomach calorie intake to less than 1,000 a day. It does not offer a fast weight loss programme, with turn svelte and thin overnight,” says nutritionist Ishi Khosla of acidity and digestive people losing a kilo a week. Whole Foods. It does not always work, which is why people enzymes that seem to Drawbacks: Counting calories is painstaking, but since end up visiting nutritionists after having tried some diet plan or correlate with blood his diet does not exclude any food groups, it is a little healthier the other for at least a week. type. THE FAVOURED FIVE AMONG INDIANS ARE: This diet provides a de- tailed list than the others. But it has a severe limitation. “Counting calories does raise our awareness of the relative calorific value of DR ATKINS DIET: CARBS, SUGARS BE DAMNED of foods to eat or avoid, de- pending on foods but ignores the nutritive content,” says Dr Shikha Dr Robert Atkins blames carbohydrates and sugar for blood type. “Broadly speaking, people with blood group A lose Khanna. making people overweight, and completely absolves proteins weight on a high carb no-protein diet; B on dairy and meats, HOW DO MOST DIETS WORK? and oils from blame. Meat, with low carbs; O on meats, but no dairy Essentially, most of these diets are about limiting calorie eggs, butter and cheese and cereals; while AB can eat a combina- intake and are based on the glycaemic index. Calorie restric- can be eaten without re- tion of everything,” says dietician Dr Shikha tion is necessary to lose weight if you have been eating for striction, but since there are Sharma of Clinique de Rejuvenation. the recommended amount for your age: roughly 1,500 calo- few vegetarian things with Drawbacks: Though it doesn’t say so, ries for sedentary women and 1,800 for men. “If you’re not

no carbohydrates in them, NOW! this diet plan also restricts calories as it ex- exercising, you have to eat less. The only way you can lose it may become difficult for vegetarians to follow the diet. cludes many food groups from a normal diet. By omitting cer- weight quickly weight is by losing water from the body,” says “Traditional Indian diet is based on wheat, rice and legumes tain foods, and sometimes even entire food groups, it may be Ishi Khosla. (dals), so everyone cannot follow this diet. It’s a popular diet deficient in selected vitamins and minerals. Water loss is induced by cutting back on sugar and carbo- plan in north India, where people are fond of their kebab and GENERAL MOTORS DIET: hydrates. “Water is heavy but its loss is not permanent and chicken,” says dietician Dr Shikha Khanna, chief dietician, FIXED COMBINATIONS you gain the first two to three kilos you lose as soon as you go Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. The General Motors diet is a seven-day programme that back to a balanced diet,” says Dr Ambrish Mithal, senior en- Drawbacks: The first 2-3 kg lost is water loss. Since it requires the eating of fixed combinations of food each day. It’s docrinologist at Apollo Hospital. happens within a week, it motivates the dieter. But you gain all fruit except bananas on day one, veggies and baked po- Now that the US Department of Agriculture’s Food Guide back the weight when you revert to eating normal food. To tato on day two, a mix of fruit and veggies on day three, ba- Pyramid has been widely declared as flawed, Dr Walter Willett sustain weight loss, you have to stick to the plan. If the diet is nanas and milk on four, cottage cheese, kidney beans, toma- from the Harvard School of Public Health has made a newer maintained over a long time, it may cause the body to go into toes and red meat on day five and six and brown rice, fruit one based on more current nutritional wisdom. Called the a fasting state called ketosis (the body begins to metabolise juice and vegetables on day seven. Since this plan is easily Healthy Eating Pyramid, it does divide carbohydrates into good muscle tissue instead of fat). available on the Net, it is hugely popular among the young. It and bad and advocates portions accordingly. While it does cause weight loss, it also leads to muscle tells dieters they would lose 4-7 kilos in a week because “the If you don’t want to ‘work out’ at losing weight, you just breakdown, arthritis, nausea, dehydration, headaches, light- food eaten burn more calories than they give to the body in have to eat less. If you eat more calories than you work off in headedness, irritability, bad breath, and kidney problems. It caloric value”. exercise and activity, you will get fat. Period. Fad diet gurus can be fatal for people with diabetes and kidney disorders. Drawbacks: Not good as a regular or long-term diet plan. may happily argue about which diet to follow — high-protein, BLOOD GROUP DIET: A BIG BAN LIST Extremely monotonous, it is not balanced and lacks vital vita- low-fat, low-carb, combination diets – but the bottom line is Dr Peter D’Adamo bestselling book, Eat Right For Your mins and minerals. It works if you have only a kilo or two to the same. Cut the calories or exercise. Better still, do both. Type, claims that each blood type has its own unique antigen lose.

LEO: You may go on a long trip. Fi- to avoid confrontations. You may incur be very good. Cash flow will be good. the nancial position will be very good. Liti- medical expenditure. Loans will be reduced. You may pur- FUTURE NOW gation will not be in your favour. Wor- SCORPIO: This will be a successful chase a new vehicle. is ries will increase. Happiness may not and easy week. Those involved in the AQUARIUS: You will be success- ARIES: Business will not improve. and popularity may suffer due to your be possible. Your knees may give you stationery and catering businesses will ful in all you do. Encouraging commu- There may be a delay in getting things laziness. trouble. Depression will continue. do well. Those with trade and agencies nication will be received. Travel is done. Cash flow will be sluggish. GEMINI: You may partner a new VIRGO: There will be happiness at may be able to avail some good oppor- likely to tire you out. Happiness will Progress in business will be delayed. business venture. Understanding with home. Financial crisis will be brought un- tunities coming their way. prevail. Your health may be unsteady. You may be at odds with your spouse. your life partner will be good. Prosper- der control. Popularity will be gained. So- SAGITTARIUS: You will be very Children also might need the doctor’s A change of surroundings will make ity in your activities is indicated. You may cial status will improve. Health will be successful. Business will be brisk. En- attention. You may acquire a new ve- you happy. You may be transferred un- acquire immovable property. You may good. You will be free of all tension. You couraging and communication will be re- hicle. expectedly. decide to shop for some household may avail a large loan. Separation with ceived. Cash flow will be very good. PISCES: You may acquire a new ve- TAURUS: You will not have any prob- goods. You will receive good news. wife is indicated. Romance may floun- Women may make costly purchases. hicle. Change of environment is likely. lems with money. Happiness will pre- CANCER: This will be a favourable pe- der. Students will do well. Professionals may You may have a financial crisis, and vail. Understanding with your life part- riod. You may be separated from your fam- LIBRA: This will be a very good time have a misunderstanding with subordi- worries accompanying it. A long trip ner may not be good. Your spouse might ily. A change of environment is indicated. to take up additional business. Support nates. is indicated. Cash flow will be very try to take over the reins. Family life will Health will be good. Worries will decrease. from your superiors and subordinates CAPRICORN:You may take a new good. Export businesses will be fruit- not be peaceful. However, domestic Cash flow will be good. Happiness will pre- will be good. You must restrain yourself decision at home. You may be blessed ful. Litigation will be in your favour. happiness is indicated. Social status vail. You may get engaged this week. from confiding in everyone if you want with a child. Partnership businesses will

18 CMYK 7FACTOR NOW! FOR THE YOUNG 07-13 Jan, 2003; NOW! 19 THELITTLE CROSSWORD - 077 WINNER GETS FREE DINNER FOR TWO AT little Solve the crossword correctly. Rush it to Oberois (MG Marg) or NOW!, on or before Sunday and a lucky draw of all correct entries will decide who wins FREE DINNER FOR TWO at LITTLE ITALY, DEORALI.SNACKS COUPONS TO BE COLLECTED FROM NOW! OFFICE italySNOD Complex, Deorali, Gangtok.Ph: 281980

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CMYK 19 20; NOW! ; 07-13 Jan, 2004 extras FACEofTheWEEK

A DEPARTURE FROM THE MUNDANE Kinchok is an aspiring air hostess from Darjeeling work that merges futuristic aes- away neatly inside the wall. The NUINTOWN thetics with modern functionality music and the mixing were both School Uniform Suppliers & Outfitters where less is more. of the quality one would expect M.G. Marg, Gangtok, Sikkim SARIKAH ATREYA on the From the moment you enter from the finest DJs – just the latest addition to the the club, you are aware of the right mix of hip-hop, trance, rajdhani nightlife… huge space and the almost clois- rock and Bollywood hits to pro- tered ambience. The stark walls duce a neat decoction of dance Raj Shree wishes all the Principals, 3,000 SQ FT OF SPACE, com- complement the modern furni- music. The intelligent light sys- plete with a state-of-the-art sound ture, designed by local lads tem works its magic to the beat Teachers, Parents and Students system imported all the way from Jigme and Dorjee from Twelve of the tracks played, giving the the UK, intelligent light system, Design Studios. The bar grabs place a truly classy feel. And an cushy seating and a dance floor your attention almost immedi- effective air-conditioning and that provides ample space to ately. Its design is surely a depar- ventilation system monitors the a Very Happy New Year!! jiggy with it without jostling for ture from the usual. Its asym- room temperature to comfort- elbowroom. To top it all, a bar that metrical design and the rounded able levels. does not burn a hole in your edges of the bar table give it an Despite the frantic pace and pocket and walls far enough so extremely functional look. The bar music that nightclubs are gener- NEXT CHANGE that you don’t end up sweating stools are, well, different. ally associated with, X’cape ex- DOLBY DIGITAL; all over your date. The lounge area is again spa- udes a surprisingly easygoing DENZONG That’s X’cape for you. The lat- cious, with couches that are com- atmosphere. Drinks are priced SURROUND EX est addition to the Rajdhani’s vi- fortable. An LCD projector domi- reasonably and the entry fee kept brant and happening nightlife, nates the area, which transmits affordable, something that the which is fast turning into the TV programmes on the wall. management worked to its ben- town’s favorite weekend water- A flight of stairs at the other efit this new year’s eve when ing hole. end of the floor lead to the mez- X’cape attracted the biggest Pema Ladakhi, the young zanine, a small enclosure on a crowd of party-goers. With stag owner of the place surely likes to separate level above the main entry at Rs. 300 and ladies for Dil Pardesi believe that. floor. This slightly less intense free, this is one place that every- “When this place was concep- back room provides an escape body who would like a getaway tualized, we definitely did not for anyone seeking some privacy. for the evening would like to be. want it to be another momo- The oval dance floor takes the “Our main focus is to provide Ho Gaya thukpa joint for the young and the centre-stage, shouldered by gal- the people with a venue for the old alike to hang out. It obviously leries on both sides, with comfort- perfect night out. We wanted the had to be hatke from the regular able chairs and couches and dif- place to spacious, functional and pubs and nightclubs in the town,” fused lights. with a great comfort level and not SIMULTANEOUS RELEASE 11AM, 2:15PM, 5:30PM he says. The Rajdhani’s very own up- just a nighclub. It had to be classy, Lauded as one of its kind “pub coming young talents, Prashant and at the same time, practical,” and lounge bar” in the State, this Rasaily and Tenzing are in says Pema. ULTRA STEREPHONIC swanky place is a piece of art- charge of the Console, tucked And X’cape offers just that. VAJRA SURROUND SOUND NOW SHOWING 11:00 2:15 5:30 www. TASHI MOVIE CLUB alphabets sikkiminfo. LATEST ARRIVALS net/ A BOOK SHOP MATRIX REVOLUTIONS vajra IN HELL (Jean Claude wishes Van Damme) everyone RUNAWAY JURY (John munnaM.B.B.S. bhai Cusack, Gene Hackman)) a very KILL BILL (Uma Thurman, Happy Starring: Sanjay Dutt, Gracy Singh, Lucy Liu) New Year Arshad Warsi etc. HOLLYWOOD HOMICIDE (Harrison Ford) PS ROAD, OPP. HOTEL TIBET

20 CMYK RECAPSIKKIM 19-25 November,07-13 Jan, 2003 2003; NOW! 21

The Guruji’s neighbourhood [left] and devotees walk over its toll and sometimes people try whose avatar he claims to be. - from page 12 a spanking new concrete footpath leading to Kocphay to barge in and the volunteers lose And yes, he is still wary of the NOW! pics. His sister, the volunteer adds, was their temper and shout at the devo- media and does not speak to treated of epilepsy by the Guruji tees. But with so many people journalists or allow photography and he now offers his free services crowding in a small space, this is of either him or the surrounding to others hoping for a similar bound to happen,” she reasoned. areas. miracles from the hands of the The crowding is there for all Interestingly, despite the APPEAL Kopchay Baba. to see. Even as the Guruji attended massive publicity and fan fol- The Power Department has been making earnest efforts Some 400 believers throng to to a patient, while this correspon- lowing the miracle cures have to maintain regular power supply in the State. In the last Kopchay on a daily basis and line dent was there, people were generated, Guruji still keeps few weeks there has been interruption in power supply in up for a darshan with the Guruji. crowding into the shed from all himself away from worldly plea- Many stay in one of the makeshift sides despite fervent pleas not to sures. He does not accept any of- Gangtok and in the East district of the State. The main rea- sheds for three to four days be- break the line. ferings, either in cash or kind, son for this is limitation of power drawing capacity from the fore they get a chance to feel that In fact, the volunteers had even and is still living the same grid. we strongly feel the importance of maintaining regular healing touch. worked out a ticket system where threadbare existence that he power supply in view of the fact that our young ones are Shanta Devi Sharma, 34, from those seeking a darshan were lived before gaining the extraor- preparing for their Board Examinations. Jhapa in Nepal, had, for example, given numbers. This was however dinary powers. He has report- - If all the consumers extend their co-operation the reached the village on 8 January discontinued when people either edly turned down offers to get a Department can continue to maintain regular power accompanied by her 70-year-old kept losing their chits or started proper house made for him even supply in the state. mother, her younger sister, two doctoring them and adding to the as his hut lies in obvious disre- - We appeal to all our consumers to take the following aunts, two uncles and three other confusion. Allegations that people pair. Those who have benefited actions to help the department to maintain regular men from their village. She was were being charged for the slips, from his healing powers are do- power supply. preparing to return when NOW! which the volunteers deny, was ing their bit by either contribut- caught up with her on 11 January. another reason why this experi- ing their time working as volun- 1. Do not use heaters, geysers, electric irons and other “We got in line the very next day, ment was discontinued. teers or by donating raw materi- electrical gadgets during the peak hours i.e. 17.00 hrs to but could not meet the Guruji. We Although two home guards als for the construction of per- 21.00 hrs. retired to a lodge late in the night have also been deputed at manent sheds and toilets for 2. Switch off the lights, which are not necessary. and were back in line the next Kopchay the numbers are too community use. 3. Replace your bulbs with compact fluoroscent lamps morning at around 3AM. Finally, huge to be controlled without The Guruji’s abstinence does 4. Do not use compound with lights and flood lights. after 12 hours, at around 3 PM, some tempers flaring. The volun- not surprise those who know we met the Guruji,” she said. Her teers however insist that no one him from earlier. “I remember Use of electric welding sets, industrial loads, motor of any aunts and uncles were still await- is denied a chance to meet the Guruji telling me a long time kind is restricted from 06.00 hours to 09.00 hours and 17.00 ing their turn. Guruji and no one shown extra back that one day the fields of hrs to 21.00 hrs till further notice. If anybody is found using The volunteers at Kopchay favours. “Everyone is the same for Kopchay would be teeming with electricity for such purposes the service connection will be explain that Guruji starts seeing the Guruji. Some papers in Nepal people; that the village would disconnected and heavy fine will be imposed. “patients” from early in the morn- have written derogatory com- have electricity and proper roads The Department Appeals to all the consumers for their kind ing till around 10 in the night. He ments about him and his miracu- and a line of vehicles off-load- co-operation in the interest of our consumers and their chil- takes only an hour’s break for lous powers and some others have ing hundreds to this tiny village. dren, lunch at around 12 PM and yet the accused us of being specially hos- I did not believe him at the time, R. K. Pradhan sheer pressure of miracle seekers tile, but all that is hogwash. We but just look around, his predic- Chief Engineer (HQ) is so much that some have to re- admit that our nerves are frayed tion has come true. Even at that Power Department turn the next day. He does not take at times and some may even lose time, he did not say that he Gangtok any offerings in cash or kind and their cool, but all that is inciden- would benefit, only the commu- has never shown any favoritism. tal and not intentional,” offers a nity and village,” reminisces a “People have to stand in line and volunteer from Rhenock. Kopchay resident. wait their turn. Everyone is the Bad press notwithstanding, the Even though the Guruji prefers HAE-MAN-THUS ACADEMY same for Guruji, but many still try people still throng to Kopchay. not to profit from his powers, he to jump ahead and edge their way The Guruji himself seems to has brought prosperity for the vil- [ we are born to succeed ] in from the sides which are just be perplexed by the increasing lagers in the form of increased open fields,” explains a volunteer crowd that throng his small avenues for income and no one is start your children’s education when asked to share their experi- house for a miracle cure. As he complaining. In fact, the residents ence on controlling the flow. individually meets each of the of Kopchay and others who are with best and strong Shanta from Jhapa supports devotees and performs the heal- camped there are grateful that a - FOUNDATION - this view. “We did not encounter ing rites, he speaks directly to blessed soul was placed in theirz any problems while we were here. the crowd, coaxing them to wait midst and are obviously enjoying ADMISSION FOR 2004 Of course, standing in the line for for their turn and have faith in every bit of fame that Guruji has almost 10 hours at a stretch takes the powers of Lord Vishnu, attracted to Kopchay. PRINCIPAL, Ph: 222741

CMYK 21 22; NOW! ; 07-13 Jan, 2004 MARKETPULSE

t is not uncommon that some travel tax will make travel cheaper sweeping changes are made and airlines more viable. Aboli- Ibefore the regular Budget, the UNDERSTANDING THE MINI BUDGET tion of these two taxes, which idea being to get a few things were irritants and did not yield done quickly to keep away the commensurate revenue has been criticism that is inevitable during A growth-oriented pre-emptive ‘Budget’ a bold measure and reminds us of the Budget. the abolition of excise duty on This time, however, this has unmanufactured tobacco by been done to effect some real nance minister’s commitment to projects and also by reducing the reduction in the peak tariff of 25 Charan Singh in the 1970s. changes in the economy since it side more with the manufactur- customs duty on electricity per cent or reducing the high rate There are some indications of is fairly clear from the move that ing industry to cut the cost of meters. The information technol- of 20 per cent to, say, 15 per cent. procedural simplifications such the regular Budget will not take production. ogy and electronic industry has What they have been asking as electronic filing of customs place on schedule. That part of the industry that also received some concessions in for is the abolition of so many ex- documents in more customs sta- All the changes are in the na- needs more protection has been customs duty. emptions at the nil and 5 per cent tions and also introducing self- ture of duty reductions. It is in- left to fend for itself against the Customs duty on specified raw rates so that the general rate be- assessment and selective exami- evitable that the government competition with imported materials and inputs for manufac- comes 15 per cent or higher. nation in respect of customs would have to do so because with- goods. This is economically a ture of electronic components and By increasing the number of clearances. However, consider- out a regular Budget, which is correct policy in the present con- optical fibre cables has been re- exemptions at 5 per cent or zero ing that almost every year the passed by Parliament, tariff rates text since the Indian industry as duced to 15 to 5 per cent and per cent, the government has Budget claims that procedural cannot be increased. a whole has shown the resilience from 5 per cent to nil. Customs given a boost to the manufactur- simplifications have been made However, tariff rates can be to withstand the so-called on- duty on specified capital goods ing industry by making imported and ultimately not really much is increased only in those cases slaught of cheaper imports. used for manufacture of elec- machinery available cheaper to done, we cannot afford to be op- where there are exemptions and The reduction of customs tronic goods has been reduced them but at the same time mak- timistic this time also. the exempted rate can be in- duty from 25 to 10 per cent for from 15 per cent/10 per cent to ing indigenous machinery The baggage rules have defi- creased to make it equal to the project imports where the in- nil. Customs duty on cellphones uncompetitive with the imported nitely been more liberalised and tariff rate. The peak rate on non- vestment is more than Rs 5 crore has also been reduced from 10 ones. The existing tariff was dis- even the procedural requirements agricultural goods has been re- (Rs 50 million) in plant and to 5 per cent, which will benefit parate. Now it has become even in respect of service tax been duced by 5 per cent, from 25 to machinery is obviously designed consumers and increase the mo- more so. made more relaxed. There have 20 per cent in the expected lines. to give a boost to greenfield bile invasion on landlines. As far as the health sector is been very nominal reductions in The government had already an- projects in India. All the above concessions are concerned, the reduction in cus- the excise duty. They are only in nounced that the peak rate would This should facilitate the flow to the manufacturing industry as toms duty to 5 per cent for life- respect of computers, medical fur- be reduced by 5 per cent each year. of foreign investment in the coun- distinguished from the capital saving drugs and formulations is niture and ATF. Almost the entire The abolition of Special Addi- try to a very large extent. The re- goods industry. The finance min- a welcome measure for the com- exercise is by way of reducing tional Duty of Customs is a very duction of customs duty on coal ister has left the capital goods in- mon man. At the same time we customs duty. Procedural im- bold and welcome measure. This from 25 to 15 per cent has also dustry in the cold. must appreciate that the provements are also nominal. was introduced about seven years been done with the same design. Import of capital goods has countervailing duty has been ex- The biggest gainer will be the ago, after some industries insisted All the reductions will definitely been made cheaper in general be- empted for such goods not by laptop computer. It will enjoy re- on protection against imports to make the manufacturing sector cause of the reduction of peak rate giving a straight exemption but ductions in customs duty from 25 countervail the sales tax being more viable and competitive. duty, abolition of SAD, reduction by giving an exemption on the to 20 per cent, abolition of SAD paid on domestic products. The growth rate of the manu- of duty on power projects and on excise side also. This will put of 4 per cent, and reduction of But after its introduction, the facturing sector has been 6.8 per the capital goods for the manu- the indigenous and foreign countervailing duty from 16 per industries were divided sharply on cent in the first half of 2003-04 facture of electronic goods. goods at parity. cent to 8 per cent. To cap it all, its usefulness. The domestic compared to the first half 2002- The capital goods industry, Reduction of excise duty on when it comes as part of passen- manufacturers who depend more 03. For industry as a whole, the which has a very substantial pres- aviation turbine fuel from 16 per ger baggage it is completely free on imported goods did not sup- same rate was 6.1 and for services ence in terms of investment and cent to 8 per cent, abolition of in- of customs duty. So the laptop is port it. But the domestic manu- it was 8.8. spread, had not been opposing a land air travel tax and foreign air the man of the match facturers who competed with im- The growth for the power sec- ported goods wanted it. tor was 3.8 only. The finance min- Therefore, there were a num- ister has, therefore, given some ber of exemptions given, with all boost to the power sector by re- REQUIRED its complications. Now the abo- ducing the customs duty on power lition of SAD underlines the fi- transmission and distribution 3 - 5 Acre land for factory construction in Sikkim. LOCAL CONTACT: Mr. Mishel Chandak BSNL threatens defaulters with Mobile: 98320 43330 Phone: (03592) 226490 disconnections, again FACTORY CONTACT: viding our customers with many Mr. N. C. Sharma a NOW REPORT facilities. One such is the golden offer for internet connection under SICPA India Limited GANGTOK: BSNL, Sikkim Plan 399. Under this scheme, cus- 7-8 KM. Stone Circle’s battle against telephone tomers can get one free connection Bhiwadi Alwar Road bill defaulters continues. General for exclusive internet use without Manager, Telecom, MK Seth has call or installation charges for a P.O. Khijuriwas - 301 018 said that the Department will dis- monthly fee of Rs. 399. This is up Distt. Alwar (Rajasthan) connect both landline as well as for offer to customers with no Phone: 01493 - 243081-84, 86-87 mobile connections of defaulting pending telephone bills,” he said. Fax: 01493 - 230917/243171 customers fail to clear dues soon. For those who spend hours on “We are facing acute financial local calls talking to friends, E-mail: [email protected] crisis due to non-payment of tele- here’s a bit of bad news. The in- phone bills. We will be forced to crease in the landline bills, even HEAD OFFICE: disconnect lines if they are not when one is not using STD, is SICPA INDIA LIMITED paid immediately,” he said. basically due to the use of the 95, 308-312 Mercantile House The silver lining in the BSNL 94 and 98 codes and the internet. threats comes in the form of im- “The rates are according to the 15, Kasturba Gandhi Marg proved services. Mr. Seth said that instructions of Telephone Regu- New Delhi - 110 001 customers can now avail of latest latory Authority of India (TRAI). Phone: 011 - 23355243/244/245 facilities in telecommunication So think twice before you dial Fax: 011 - 23314212 from BSNL. “We have been pro- these codes,” Mr. Seth advised.

22 CMYK DESPATCHES 07-13 Jan, 2003; NOW! 23 Parties unleash students to put classifieds pressure on Nepal NOW! king. At the gates the affordable option call 270949 for details or visit any of the authorised collecting agents listed below KATHMANDU: The last time bosses call it off, and they have the government was aware of the scenes like this were seen so close warned politicians not to sell out possibility of Maoist penetration. LEARN Fine Arts, Oil Paints, MOBILE PHONE REPAIR/ to the royal palace was during the to the king. “That is why we want the students Glass Painting, Fabric Painting, Pot EXCHANGE Repair or Ex- Painting, Artificial FLower Making. change your Mobile Phone at People’s Movement in 1990. Inside the palace, King to carry out their protest rallies Contact: Upper Arithang, Ph - Reasonable Cost.New Hand- All through the last week, stu- Gyanendra has been meeting a slew responsibly,” he said. 221587. mobile: 98320 33451 sets also available Internet dent protestors and police fought of political leaders one-by-one to Maoist leader Prachanda has WANTED ON RENT pitched battles in the centre of head off an escalation. Politicians tried to capitalise on the turmoil Point, Yama House, Kathmandu. Many were injured say they have so little trust in the with a statement last Thursday A Built-Up factory shed of 2000 RAMOLA CELLULAR SALES as police charged students shout- king’s motives that they have to accusing the king of trying to di- - 3000 sq ft along the National & SERVICES. Tharo Line,Lal ing inflammatory anti-monarchy keep up the pressure on the streets. vide the parties by meeting them. Highway between Rangpo and Market Road. Ph: 221004, Mo- Ranipool. CONTACT: Narendra slogans. Having failed to Gagan Thapa, the student But fissures have again appeared bile: 9832062684 @ 9434221642 galvanise popular support for leader arrested two weeks ago on in the five-party alliance - the their agitation, the five-party alli- charges of sedition, told local Congress wants restoration of IMMEDIATELY REQUIRED ance has now instructed their stu- journalists here: “We are not go- parliament, the UML favours an WANTED A new hotel opening shortly in dent wings to “go all out” with ing to tolerate it if the parties all-party government, while the Siliguri requires smart and dynamic republican slogans. reach an agreement with the king. Deuba faction wants its prime IMMEDIATELY WANTED (male/female) The protests are getting more We want the king out of politics.” minister reinstated. A Watchman (Chowkidaar) Cum- Gardener (Mali) 1. Chefs: (indian, chinese, conti- violent, and some analysts fear it Students also admit the The parties may not be able to nental with 2 yrs experience in a could spiral out of control. The Maoists have infiltrated their present a common consensus to Aged 25 and above Education: Not Required star hotel) students now say they will con- ranks and joined the rallies. Se- the king even if he asks for one to 2. Cooks tinue their agitation even if party nior minister Kamal Thapa said defuse tensions. Candidate should be obedi- ent, honest and hardworking 3. Stewards: (with good English) with sound health. Local 4. Waiters: (with good English) candidate will be given pref- 5. Front Desk Receptionist: NEPAL AND BHUTAN TO INVESTIGATE ATTACK erence. (good English speaking skills Contact: Haemanthus Acad- and basic computer knowledge) ON BHUTANESE OFFICIALS AT JHAPA emy, Ph: 222741 6. Store Keeper. THIMPU: During his meetings making.” gee problem was very complex by 7. House Keepers: Females Aged with the Nepalese prime minister, Nepal’s prime minister, in the nature but he was confident that COMMERCIAL & 40 +. Surya Bahadur Thapa, and the meanwhile, said that the govern- the two governments would be CORPORATE APPLY with Complete Biodata (with ambassador at large, Dr. Bekh ment of Nepal regretted the inci- able to continue the progress ARTWORK supporting documents for past ex- Bahadur Thapa, at the SAARC dent in Jhapa. “We regret this in- achieved by the ministerial joint AND DESIGNS perience), contact numbers and summit in Islamabad the cident and we conveyed our re- committee. “We are in full agree- email: passport sized photographs to: Bhutanese prime minister, gret to the prime minister as well,” ment on this issue,” he said. pixelart NOW! Office, Near Ayurvedic Lyonpo Jigmi Y. Thinley, dis- he said in Islamabad. “This should Bhutan and Nepal agreed that @graffiti.net Clinic, Gairi Gaon, Tadong, cussed a range of issues includ- be discussed at the official level the two foreign ministers would Gangtok. ing the “regrettable” December 22 and the 15th MJC’s decision start discussions after the SAARC attack on the Bhutanese officials should be put on track again.” summit. after last year’s overwhelming response and successful in Jhapa. Mr. Thapa said that the refu- [courtesy: Kuensel] completion... we are back with Lyonpo Jigmi Thinley said that the unfortunate incident had taken place while Bhutan was going MOBILE!MOBILE!!MOBILE!!! Kids Course through a difficult period so the Mobile Phone at Reasonable Prices in Computers government did not get time to Easy instalment scheme for salaried individuals Classes going on. study the situation. Exchange offer on second hand sets Contact: CITI COMPUTERS “The two governments will No parking problems even after 5 PM Tibet Road, Gangtok. Phone: 220866 conduct a thorough investigation Customer shelf available to sell your old handset into the incident,” Lyonpo Jigmi by yourself. Thinley said. “The two foreign ministers will start discussions to clarify the situation so that we can contact: 201006, 94341-17320PRISES Shopping Complex, ZING ENTER Academia resume the good progress we were TEN Room No. 41, Development Area, Gangtok PICNIC??? CHOOSE Sikkim ISOLATED (UNDER CONSTRUCTION) NATURE & Kutse Shegu Located at Nimtar, above Power Colony BEAUTIFUL The 49th Day Kutse Shegu of late Sonam Dadul Bhutia who expired on 27th November 2003 falls on 14th January 2004. All relatives, friends and well wish- Session starts Feb 2004 SPOT! ers are welcome to join us in offering prayers for the departed soul at our residence “Chekkim House” at Chongphong (Geyzing), West Sikkim. We would Contact: 9832067886 VISIT FUN & also like to take this oppostunity to thank all those who extended their help in FOOD our bereavement. RESTAURANT, Kinzang Dadul Bhutia (Chongphong) CLASSIFIED advertisments can be 03595 258276 RUMTEK Sonam Wangyal Bhutia (Pelling) booked at the following collection THE WATERFALL 03595 258309 centres: Porky’s, Deorali; Oberois, Naya Chewang Dorjee Bhutia (Ravangla) RESORT, 03595 260555 Bazaar; Baker’s Cafe, MG Marg; Jainco, RUMTEK Tsering Thondup Bhutia (Gangtok) Metro Point, Blues, Tibet Road, Moti 94340 91099 contact for reservation: 03592 - 224643, Mahal, Naya Bazar, Rahul’s Fast Food, PS Karma Nedup Bhutia (Pelling) 9434117180, 9434117418 03595 258606 Road, Cafe Tibet, Below High Court

CMYK 23 24; NOW! ; 07-13 Jan, 2004 SPORTS Local youth pumps enough iron to win national bronze Anand Oberoi seven other northeastern states cal product, Legden did his leaving for Amravati in he feels, should be given to GANGTOK: Beaming with apart from contingents from schooling from vari- Maharastra for a Bachelors De- bring in national level coaches pride and confidence and looking Calcutta, Jharkhand, Orrisa and ous schools in gree in physical education. who will take the sport to a in better shape than ever, Legden Coal India. Gangtok before “I was never keen on new level in Sikkim. Dorjee Bhutia has become the Talking about his studies but very interested “Body builders lack expo- first person in Sikkim’s body- achievement, Legden in sports. Bodybuilding sure here. If the State sponsors building history to win a medal says that it has opened was always my passion. I its bodybuilders to the na- at the national level. the doors for many admired Arnold tional level more often, it will Speaking to NOW!, this sturdy aspiring body Schwarzenegger’s achieve- make the enthusiasts more 28-year-old, who has one ruling builders of ments and hero-worshipped confident and their perfor- passion in life - lifting weights – the state. him. So it was only natural for mance will improve with reveals proudly that he is the first “ This me to pursue this field,” says time,” he believes. person to win a medal [bronze] medal has Legden. Body building is an expen- and a trophy for Sikkim at the put Apart from sive sport and one which de- national level. He did so at the Sikkim on bodybuild- pends heavily on diet. Legden recently held 5th Eastern India the body- ing, Legden maintains that if this special Body Building Championship building map as has patron- diet was sponsored by the 2004 in Shillong, Meghalaya on many officials and As- ized a government, the dropout rate January 10 and 11. sociations have come to relatively in the profession would go The championship was orga- know about Sikkim’s body new down helping the state to ex- nized by Meghalaya Bodybuild- builders now. This sport cel at the national level. ers Association under the author- achievement has also called “If a small state like Goa ity of EIBBA [Eastern India Body shown that sports in Tennis could produce a Mr. India, so Builders Association] recognized Sikkim is improving and Volleyball can we,” he adds. by IBBF [Mumbai], ABBF developing everyday. and has About winning the third [Singapore] and IFBB [Canada]. Medals in sports that even repre- prize he informs that although Representing Sikkim through were not considered sented India in the competition was very the Sikkim State Body Building achievable earlier are this event in tough and he had to compete Association, Legden won the now being won by local Russia. He wants against top bodybuilders of third position in the 75-80 kg cat- sportspersons,” he adds. to introduce this game India, the reason behind his egory. Two others from Sikkim, Legden, a former Mr. in Sikkim too, and is excellent performance was the Pema Dorjee Bhutia who came Sikkim and the chief looking for sponsors high level of confidence and fourth in the 80-85 kg and Ram trainer at Gold Gym, a fitness cen- to support his effort. motivation that surged Bhoj Rai who came sixth in the tre in the heart of town, provides To promote body- through him. 70-75 kg category, competed a good example for any one who building in the state against participants from the wants to follow his dreams. A lo- and to start quality “I feel very proud to be the first improvement in the to contribute to the state in this sport,” he states proudly. KAMAKHYA SIDHA ASTROLOGY TANTRAYOGI’S NEWS sport more stress, Since last six years Shastriji using Astrology Science in giving Success too many human beings by making impossible into possible. Our worshipper Guru Acharaya Professor Dr. Shivshankar Shastriji (State Astrology) through Astrology Study and Divine capacity of Meditation has spread a light in India for welfare of different problems of Mankind Since last five years. Swamiji, taking the responsibility of “Vishwa sewashram Sangh” & “Astrological Research Project”, “Viswa Jyotish Vidyapith” in Siliguri under the Human Research Development Ministry Govt. of India has succeses to create a new belief towards the Astrology study to the people of North Bengal, Sikkim, Bhutan, Assam and Nepal. Shastriji divine “Power” Astrology and through Meditation of Tantra many Childless Couples have achieved the happiness of child. Problems failure by Doctor giving birth of child ever after the presence of balanced Simons between husband & wife, sexual & physical weakness, obstacles in marriage, unsuccess in love affairs, unhappiness in marriage life, family troubles, attract towards other women being wife, troubles in child education bring child towards right path, too much alcoholic, Sudden unsuccessful in business and got no Success even after every attempt, Sudden stopped of Money, Victory over enemy, physical security from uncertain enemy to get success in judicial affairs, got no promotion in service. Right prediction about kids, Relief from unwanted planets, Horoscope study as making Horoscope from computer etc could be solved at right time. You all along with your family members come to Swamaji and get the problem could solved. Swamaji has honoured from our country and from outside world for his service towards the Astrology & Tantra has been honored by “Jems Silver” in 2001 from “American Institute of astrological Science” (New York, U.S.A.) International Federation of Astrology & Spiritual Science (Govt. of Sri Lanka) had honored Swamiji by Gold Medal in 2001. For his unprecedent Astrology Power Swamiji has been honoured by “Bharat-Bandhu” in Kolkata by the Governor of Utter Pradesh Bishnukant Shastriji in 22nd January 2000. While vice-chancellor of Rajasthan University and Pondichery honored Gold medal. Has been honored by “Bharat Mata Samman” & “Life Achievement Award.” SINCE OBLIGED BY K. N. LAMA, Supdt. of Custom, Siliguri, Ph. 2661602 (R), 98320-61432 DR. R. K. AWASTHI, Senior Scientist, Sikkim, Ph. 03595-23130 (O) D. B. SINCHURI, Manager, Youth Cebtre, Ministry of Education, Thimpu, Bhutan, Ph. 324506 (O) SAILAZA CHHETRI, Senior Air Hostess, Kathmandu, Nepal, Ph. 4780873 HIRAMANI SEWA, Salbari, P.O. Sukna, Ph. 0353- 2512523 (O)

Contact: RATNARAJ Siliguri, Connecting Bidhan Rd. & Sevoke Rd. Opp. Tera Hotel, 1st Floor Time: Every Day: 10 AM to 7 PM, Sunday: 11 AM to 2 PM Adv. Contact is Necessary: Ph: (0353) 2430657 (O), Mobile: 98320-40984 (Ashram)

Published by Lt. Col. (retd) P. Dorjee and printed at Darpan Publications Pvt. Ltd, Siliguri. Editor: Pema Wangchuk. Executive Editor: Mita Zulca Now! Near Ayurvedic Clinic, Gairi Gaon, Tadong. East Sikkim. ph: 03592 270949 email: [email protected]

24 CMYK