BE THERE! TODAY’S EDITION OF NOW! CONTAINS 1002 February, pgs 2005; NOW! 1
Deptt directs Wednesday, 02 Feb, 2005 Vol. 3 No. 243 Gangtok Rs. 3 SBI teachers to press attend first day CREDIT SBI announces Xpress XCredit.XXX Personal Loans for of school or net monthly incomes of Rs. 2,500 onwards; 18- times the salary; at face disciplinary 10.25% interest! contact PT Bhutia 94343 57921, action Chettri 94340 12824 or P Darnal 9434151288 GANGTOK, 01 Feb: A memo being issued by the Secretary, Human Resource Development Department, directs all govern- ment teachers, Headmasters, Cabinet clears Indigenous Primitive Tribe status for Lepchas Headmistress, Principals to be The Cabinet’s approval follows ment and National Commission a NOW REPORT Sikkim, the Principal Secretary present on the first day of the a Cabinet Memorandum for SC/ST, Government of In- in her memorandum pointed re-opening of schools - 07 Feb, GANGTOK, 01 Feb: The mooted by the Minister-in- dia, by Sikkim Lepcha Youths’ out that according to the 2004 failing which their absence will Cabinet on 29 January, ap- charge, Hissey Lachungpa, and Association [SLYA] and also Electoral Roll prepared by the be treated as Leave Without Pay proved the proposal placed by the Principal Secretary of the on the ethnographical details of State Election Department, the along with the usual discipli- the Department for Social Jus- Department, C. Cintury. the tribe submitted by the SLYA percentage of Lepcha voters nary action that will be initiated tice, Empowerment and Wel- The Cabinet memorandum to the Department. was 8.67 per cent out of the against such absentees without fare for the declaration of placed by the department was Arguing for the declaration total voters of 266,188, which any show cause notice. Lepchas as “Indigenous Primi- based on the memorandum of Lepchas as Indigenous incidentally was also the low- [IPR] tive Tribe Group of Sikkim.” submitted to the State Govern- Primitive Tribe Group of turn to pg 8 SURROUNDED BY STRIFE, SIKKIM REMAINS AN OASIS OF PEACE offers for the future of the prominently in Mr. CM CALLS FOR Rs. 1000 CRORE PEACE state,” he said adding that mu- Chamling’s speech. BONUS FOR SIKKIM AT NE CMs MEET tual trade, tourism-related He however highlighted the Minister, Pawan Chamling, ad- Nathula Trade, which was trade, investments, industry and fact that Sikkim was not oblivi- a NOW REPORT dressed the gathered CMs and much enquired about by the pilgrimage were expected to be ous to the threat posed by groups GUWAHATI, 01 Feb: The Union Ministers which, accord- Assamese journalists yesterday, some of the positive implica- like the KLO, ULFA, the Mao- chief ministers of all the north ing to information received, was also figured in his speech. tions. He also informed that he ists and the NDFB; in this regard eastern states, barring Tripura, highly appreciated. On this, Mr. Chamling said was looking forward to imple- he also mentioned arrest of “a who are in Assam to discuss se- Mr. Chamling began by in- that the border trade would be ment all the policies and pro- militant leader” in Sikkim and curity issues along with develop- troducing Sikkim and expressed used as an instrument of de- grammes of the Centre includ- the Indira Sharma murder case ment, grouped for a meeting to- his gratitude to the central gov- velopment. ing VAT for which, he said, the which had threatened the peace- day which was convened by the ernment, former NEC chairman, “In fact the Sikkimese peo- state was “completely ready”. ful atmosphere of the state. Minister in charge of North-East- Governor of Assam and those ple are excited at the throbbing The fact that Sikkim is a “We acted swiftly and suc- ern Affairs PR Kyndiah. The gathered for having supported prospect that the border trade largely peaceful state figured turn to pg 8 Union Home Minister, Shivraj the inclusion of Sikkim as the 8th Patil was also present. Chief member of the NEC. Emergency imposed in Nepal, King takes over KATHMANDU, 01 Feb: Ne- talks with Maoist rebels and pal plunged into a political cri- conduct parliamentary elec- sis today after King Gyanendra tions by April, the king in a tel- sacked the eight month-old Sher evised address to the nation Bahadur Deuba government, as- said: “I hereby dismiss Deuba sumed all executive government and as- powers for the next sume all executive three years and declared powers, in line with a state of emergency in the Constitution” he the country. said announcing Armoured vehicles Deuba’s second dis- with mounted machine missal in three years. guns patrolled the capi- The 55-year-old tal amidst reports that monarch, who as- several politicians have sumed the throne in been put under house 2001 following the arrest. All telephone gunning down of his lines, including mobile brother king phone services, were discon- Birendra, declared that a new nected soon after the royal an- government would be formed nouncement. under his leadership that “will In a brief comment to re- restore peace and effective de- porters, 59-year-old Deuba, mocracy in this country within whose house was surrounded the next three years.” by soldiers, said: “We will op- Meanwhile, India voiced pose this step.” “grave concern” over the de- Charging the Deuba gov- velopment. ernment with failing to hold turn to pg 8 2; NOW!; 02 February, 2005 ED-SPACE If you have to fight Fight by the rules t is an indication of just how Achuley! Iseriously the world now takes The Lepchas, not just of Sikkim but even neighbouring the brutality of Nepal’s conflict West Bengal, have for long been demanding Indigenous that someone like Louise Arbour Primitive Tribe Group status. The Lepchas of Sikkim, with was here this week. the Cabinet approval of 29 January, have secured this The former Canadian su- recognition. Congratulations for them. There will be few preme court justice is a name who will grudge the Lepchas this status. The Lepchas af- associated with genocides in ter all, have been at the receiving end of the domination Rwanda and ex-Yugoslavia. for too many centuries now. The original Lepcha way of She specialises in bringing war life is now lost for all practical purposes, their faith endan- criminals to justice through in- gered and their language on the brink of extinction. A sad ternational tribunals like she state of affairs for a race that is indigenous to the region did the massacre perpetrators and whose myths and legends have been incorporated from Rwanda as well as Yugo- into the identities of everyone else who followed them to slav president, Slobodan this hidden land. Cold statistics and harsh reality demand Milosevic. that they be made more secure, protected better and rec- ognition as “Indigenous Primitive Tribe Group” should Her presence in Nepal low the UN to get Nepali hu- lations at home would affect make them feel more comfortable in these fast-changing should have sent a chill down man rights violators into inter- the future of its UN peacekeep- times. Of course, there will be those who will react nega- the spine of every commander national courts. “They are more ing operations abroad. tively to this development and see it as a fragmentation of and political or rebel leader un- than enough for the UN Secu- Arbour also met human the BL identity. Be that as it may, with the very survival of der whose watch human rights rights activists and relatives of a people at stake, that can be seen as collateral damage atrocities are being committed. the disappeared. But her harsh- in the battle save the Lepcha identity. More than 12,000 Nepalis have EXTERNAL est words were for the Maoists Fact however remains that mere recognition as an In- lost their lives in the last nine who she warned shouldn’t digenous Primitive Tribe Group and its attendant safeguards years: most of them are un- AFFAIRS think they exist in a legal are not enough to guarantee a secure future. What the armed civilians, butchered, dis- vacuum. She told us: “I would Lepcha community makes of this status and how it works appeared, killed after arbitrary NEPAL like to warn the leaders of the out ways to benefit from it will decide what the coming dec- arrests and torture. rity Council to set up tribunals insurgency not to misread de- ades hold for them. Protection alone is no security or guar- This week in Kathmandu, for Nepali perpetrators,” Sher velopments in the wider world antee for preserving the Lepcha identity. No one should know this better than the Lepchas themselves. Revenue Arbour was outspoken in her Bahadur KC of the Nepal Bar nor to believe that they can op- Order No. 1 has offered little protection and if legislations criticism of state security and Association and international erate outside of the law.” She were protection enough then Dzongu should have been a the Maoists and warned them lawyer told us, “and Arbour said she was most concerned hotbed of development and prosperity for Lepchas. That, that they would be held to ac- was here to assess the human about the abductions of chil- everyone knows is not the case. The new status should be count. “In every part of the rights situation under that UN dren, forced displacement of taken as a motivation by the Lepcha community to foster world, political and military provision.” families, murders and extortion the still nascent efforts at furthering their understanding of leaders who thought them- Arbour met King by the rebels. But even while the Lepcha identity. Once the community is clear on how selves immune from persecu- Gyanendra, Prime Minister Arbour was still in Nepal, Mao- deep its roots go and share a common ethos, then they tion are now answering before Deuba, COAS Pyar Jung Thapa ists went ahead with the abduc- can decide where they fit into the scheme of things for the law for the gross human conveying her concern that tion of 500 students and teach- Sikkim; what the state can offer them and what they can rights abuses they perpetrated,” there have been very few seri- ers in Dadeldhura and 750 in contribute to it. The Lepchas have been neglected for far Arbour said. ous investigations and convic- Sankhuwasabha for their in- too long, this increased protection, however, should not Nepal has signed more than tions of human rights abuses. doctrination programs. result in them moving deeper into seclusion. It should pro- mote better assimilation, this time with more security. a dozen international treaties The army was also given the A UN team on involuntary and instruments that would al- message that human rights vio- turn to pg 3

ndia has supported Bhutan just the level of trust, but the hard in practically all areas of the work that has been the basis of Idevelopment process, vis- this relationship. ible particularly in infrastruc- Consolidating friendship His Royal Highness the ture like roads and telecommu- Chhoetse Penlop is not a stranger nication facilities, schools and up markets but truly makes tivity for trade. The excitement All this was one aspect of in India and, this week, the gov- hospitals. The government of Bhutan accessible to the imme- created by some Indian media His Majesty the King’s state ernment of India also introduced India has been a willing part- diate region around us. of trains running into Bhutan in visit to India over the past week His Royal Highness to the peo- ner as Bhutan charted out its Bhutan’s agriculture sector the next few months are obvi- which saw the strengthening of ple of India during the Republic own path towards socio-eco- will have the opportunity to draw ously premature but landlocked a long term and substantive vi- Day celebrations. It is reassuring, nomic progress, emphasising a from India’s vast agrarian Bhutan will eventually have ac- sion that spelt out the direction particularly for Bhutan, that the holistic and sustainable ap- economy. Taking the pragmatic cess to India’s ports and metro- for cooperation in the future. Chhoetse Penlop is already well proach in an era when many approach that has characterized Another element of the royal known to the Indian leaders. countries have lost this balance. our development we will have visit that was obvious to all ob- President Kalam invited His We also know that the opportunity to adopt the prac- EXTERNAL servers - Bhutanese, Indians, and Royal Highness to see for him- hydropower has been the thrust tices, technology, and expertise others - was the special rapport self the “great vibrancy and dy- of economic cooperation be- that are best suited to Bhutanese that His Majesty enjoys with the namism of India and sense, at tween Bhutan and India, sym- conditions. We will also be able AFFAIRS Indian leaders of all ages, at all first hand, the warm affection bolized by the large environ- to utilize India’s experience in BHUTAN levels, and from all political lean- that the people have for Bhutan”. mentally friendly projects that marketing practices to take ings. There is no doubt that the We thus saw the true nature have brought great benefit to Bhutanese products into the In- politan markets through safer essence of Indo-Bhutan relations of the relations between Bhu- both countries and promise to dian markets and beyond. To an and faster rail connections. is a bond that goes deeper than tan and India. We also saw that bring much more. extent all this has already been This comes with the improve- business and politics. it is an understanding that has The two new agreements happening but the direct institu- ment of existing roads, the prom- The government of India con- been built up over the decades signed in New Delhi this week tional cooperation is expected to ises of a regional boom through veyed a strong gesture of friend- and a trust that needs to be nur- are significant in the sense that provide a much-needed boost. the trans Asian highway, and Bhu- ship and respect by inviting His tured. We understood that noth- they take Indo-Bhutan coopera- While power transmission tan’s own expansion into organi- Majesty as the chief guest for the ing should be taken for granted. tion into new areas. Agriculture lines running from Bhutan to sations like BIMSTEC. In other Republic Day celebrations. But, As times change and peo- and livestock, which will affect India are already visible links in words, the next few years could in the series of meetings that took ple change this wisdom must be every Bhutanese family, and a economic cooperation, railway mean a new era for economic de- place over five days, there was constant. railway link that not only opens links will ensure solid connec- velopment in Bhutan. even more than that. We saw, not editorial featured in Kuensel, Bhutan
RAJDHANI 02 February, 2005; NOW! 3 Accident prone edge that there are many a NOW REPORT schools in the area. TADONG, 01 Feb: Bad roads, “My neighbour’s child was traffic congestion and accidents hit by a speeding taxi recently have become a common feature and we had to immediately rush in the Rajdhani. Many stretches her to the hospital. Though she of road in and around Gangtok suffered only minor injuries, are witness to frequent acci- the situation could have been dents. One such stretch is the ugly. The narrow road only al- road from Indra Bye Pass turn- lows two vehicles at a time to ing to Dara Gaon. pass through. There is literally The narrow roads and no space for walking. Even if heavy traffic pose a risk to any there have been certain initia- is the continuous plying of All is obviously not OK with this TATA: A truck turned turtle pedestrian and locals of the area tives taken by concerned ad- Army and GREF vehicles while negotiating a sharp bend on NH 31A below the Forest complain of the regular threat ministrations, the risk factor is throughout the day,” states office on 01 Feb, Tuesday. of either being run over or be- still there. Anything can happen Rishika Pradhan, another dis- self,” complains Neha Rai. ing hit by a speeding vehicle. to anyone any time, you never gruntled local. With many new business The accidents have become “My house is just opposite know,” complains Tshering “Sometimes, there is no establishments coming up in frequent and the risk looms Krishi Bhawan; during office Zangpo, another resident. space at all for the pedestrians to the area and the presence of large over the minds of the lo- hours, the risk factor increases The risk factor increases walk on the road, as there is so government offices and schools cals. Not only has this particu- thanks to the number of vehi- manifold when large vehicles much obstruction everywhere. here, the vehicular and pedes- lar area become an accident- cles parked haphazardly. The pass through. There are no provisions of foot- trian traffic has increased. With prone zone, the stretch of road speeding vehicles weaving “Even though trucks are not paths and no barricade to sepa- new buildings sprouting every- at Deorali, Syari and Sichey through the maze of parked allowed into town during the rate the road from the pedestrian. where, the vehicles are now also needs to be given a vehicles makes crossing the day, there are some heavy ve- It is only up to the pedestrian to running over the limited space thought. After all, there are road difficult and risky,” states hicles that are allowed to by- dodge and make way for him- used by the pedestrians. lives at stake here. Krishna, a Tadong resident. pass this rule. What especially It is also common knowl- makes the whole situation risky UD&HD announces work- shop on “Municipalisation Sikkim Manipal University invites applications from suitable candidates to appear in Walk-in-Interview at 10.00 AM in Sikkim” for 5 Feb on 5th Feb-05 and 10th Feb-05 for the following vacancies available in its constituent units as listed below:

GANGTOK, 01 Feb: The Urban Development & Housing De- Name of Post Constituent Educational Qualifications Gross No. of partment, in association with the Gangtok Water Supply & Unit Emoluments Posts Sanitation Project [Aus AID] is organising a Consultative Workshop on Municipalisation in Sikkim on 05 February, SMIT Graduate, preferably Commerce 06 Clerk Diploma in Computer Application Rs. 5,400/- 2005 at Chintan Bhawan. Minister, UD& HD, DD Bhutia will preside over the function and the Chief Minister, Pawan SMIMS (Minimum one year), Typing speed 07 40 wpm. Chamling, is scheduled to attend as the Chief Guest. [IPR] Graduate, preferably Commerce WEATHERUPDATE Personal Assistant SMIT Diploma in Computer Application Rs. 7,000/- 3 (Minimum one year), Shorthand 60 Fight by wpm, Typing speed 40 wpm.

Technical SMIMS Graduate in Science preferably Rs. 5,400/- 1 the rules Assistant Biology and Chemistry Contd from pg 2 Jr. Lab SMIMS 10+2 with Diploma in Medical Lab Rs. 5,400/- 2 disappearances was in Nepal GANGTOK & Assistant Technology last month and is scheduled to SURROUNDING AREAS present its report in the run-up The Weather Yesterday Desection hall SMIMS Matriculation and/or experience I Rs. 4,000/- 1 to a hearing on Nepal sched- MAX TEMP: 10.7 Degree Celsius attendant MIN TEMP: 6.5 Degree Celsius uled for March. Arbour’s office Rainfall: 8 mm in Geneva will be looking at Modellers SMIMS Matriculation with certificate/ Rs. 4,000/- 1 Relative humidity: 93% experience of model making/ sculpting progress till then. -courtesy Agro-Meteorological - Nepali Times, Kathmandu Office, Gangtok Telephone SMIMS Bachelor’s Degree with Telephone Rs. 5,400/- 1 Operator Operation Course FOR BEST FLOORING Sr. Accountant SMU Graduate in Commerce with a Wooden parquet flooring, minimum of 5 years experience in Rs. 7,000/- 1 related field. Working Knowledge of Lucky PVC floor tiles, PVC wood computer applications is Must. plank, tiles, Vista floor, Super marblex, Wall Heritage Accountant SMU Graduate in Commerce with a minimum of 3 years experience in Rs. 6,000/- 1 Surface, Textures, Spray polish, related field. Working knowledge of Japanese technology. computer applications is must. contact:
Preference will be given to duly qualified local candidates. TIKA ENTERPRISES
Candidates may apply with supporting documents with postal address and phone number. Original certifi- Near Krishi Bhawan Gate cate to be produced during interview.
31 A NH, Uma Cottage Selection will be made on the basis of test and interview.
Selection will be on merit and decision of selection committee will be final. Tadong, Sikkim - 737102
Candidates who could not attend walk-in-interview may send their applications to the office of the Vice Ph: 231394 M: 9434153480 Chancellor, Sikkim Manipal University, 5th Mile Tadong, Gangtok by 15th Feb’05. 4; NOW!; 02 February, 2005 NEWSSCAN
INVOLVE YOUTH IN FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION TO MAKE “YOUTH REVOLUTIONARY YEAR” A SUCCESS: BJP “each household a productive In its suggestion to the Gov- lution in the real sense”, the division, district and State lev- a NOW REPORT unit” were at a loss themselves ernment, the party stressed on party also suggested adding one els, and action taken on the eco- GANGTOK, 01 Feb: The as to how this could be the urgent need to prepare and more item to the 10 points to nomical, social and political cor- Sikkim unit of Bharatiya Janata achieved, the party hoped that circulate proper guidelines and the “Year of the Youth Revolu- ruption cases brought to light by Party [BJP], while appreciating the Government’s declaration methodology that clearly de- tion.” This point, the party these committees, the party fur- the decision of the State Govern- was not just propaganda. fines how the proposed revo- added, will be to “make the ther suggested. ment to declare 2005 as the The party, in a press release, lution among the youth is to be youth fight against corrup- Pointing out that this ex- “Youth Revolutionary Year,” has also stated that the situation was achieved. There should be a tion… as no programme or slo- periment had been successful raised doubts whether this dec- similar to other “failed” pro- nodal department, which will gan will achieve anything if where the Government “meant laration will bear any fruit “with- grammes like “human resource coordinate with other depart- there exists corruption.” business,” the BJP state unit out any preset goals and targets.” development for gainful em- ments in implementing projects For such intrinsic and value- expressed hope that “this will Stating that the agencies ployment, drug-free state, mak- with pre-defined regular review based programme, the Govern- not be like the 2002 Year of which were to work towards ing environment a source of in- and monitoring of the pro- ment should form a number of Cooperation when at the end of implementation of the pro- come, encouraging youth to take gramme, the party suggests. “Voluntary Youth Vigilance the year, more Cooperatives gramme that aimed at making part in leadership task, etc.” To “justify the word Revo- Committees” at Panchayat, sub- were rendered sick.” When Manipal and STNM to resume exchange the Cabinet As informed by the with us to have our own staff fact that the proposal for merg- RANJIT SINGH Manipal VC, LC Amarnathan, for our students,” says the VC. ing STNM with Manipal did GANGTOK, 01 Feb: The Manipal would resume sending It would be interesting to not come through, he still hopes met last Sikkim Manipal Institute of its students for clinical classes know how Manipal students who that the two institutions con- a NOW REPORT Medical Sciences will shortly to STNM in a few days time. are ready for their clinical stud- tinue to cooperate in the best resume sending its students to This, he said, was decided ies managed the past four months interests of the state. GANGTOK, 01 Feb: The Cabi- the STNM Hospital for clini- at a meeting held last week. without the help of STNM. However, the troubles of net, during its meeting on 29 cal studies. Clinical classes for medical stu- “In order to generate as Manipal are far from over with January, cleared several propos- This arrangement with the dents begin once they have many patients as we could, we the High Court of Sikkim taking als and sanctioned funds for the STNM hospital had taken a reached the third year of their announced free treatment at the suo moto cognisance of the following projects: break during September-Octo- MBBS course. Mr. Amarnathan Central Referral Hosiptal,” in- number of NRI students admit- ROADS & BRIDGES ber when Manipal was battling also says that he now intends forms the VC. ted by Manipal. Then, the MCI Rs. 62.65 lakhs for the construc- a court case with the Medical to make Manipal self-sufficient This, according to him, will again have to be tackled tion of Link Road from Council of India which did not as far as providing adequate greatly increased the number of come admission time for the new Ranipool-Pakyong Road to Mangheem at Aho, East Sikkim approve of Manipal having to patients and faculty members patients coming to the hospital. session which the VC hopes to Rs. 28.29 lakhs for the con- seek help of the government for his students is concerned. While previously, the average complete by July-end. If the VC struction of Naitam-Pabyuk hospital. This was due to the In fact, he says that as far number of outpatients per day delivers on his promise to make Gumpa Link Road in East Sikkim fact that Manipal, by itself, as faculty members are con- was around 170-200, with the SMIMS “self-sufficient” as re- Rs. 1355.76 lakhs for surface could not generate enough pa- cerned, Manipal no longer has free treatment the number rose gards patients and faculty, it improvement/ carpeting includ- tients to provide for the clini- any deficiency though they do to around 350. The number of would be interesting to see what ing widening, drainage work and cal classes of its students nor not have the required number in-patients also doubled with “excuse” MCI comes up with replacement of BB Lal Suspen- did they have qualified faculty of junior resident tutors. the hospital now having around next if it still denies the only sion Bridge under the NLCPR members teach them. “We require about 115 jun- 200 such patients. Though the medical college in the State its Programme 2003-04 In fact relations between ior resident tutors while we VC seemed quite sour over the certificate of recognition. Rs. 26,26,196 for the con- the two medical institutions have about only 60 of them at struction of Link Road from soured when the government present,” revealed Mr. Dethang to Mangalbaria, km 1st decided to merge the two in Amarnathan. “There is no Gurung’s continue tribal status pursuit and 2nd in West Sikkim Gurung community prepared order to help Manipal meet the shortage as far as faculty mem- a NOW REPORT Rs. 75,05,665 for the con- MCI stipulations. Incidentally, bers are concerned excepting by the Association as per the di- struction of 4 km Link Road from MCI has still not awarded full for the junior resident tutors; in GANGTOK, 31 Jan: A high rection of the State Govern- Pelling-Rimbi Road to Singyang recognition to SMIMS. fact it is now a policy matter level delegation of all Sikkim ment. The report deals with the in West Sikkim Gurung [Tamu] Buddhist Asso- culture, religion, language and Rs. 376 lakhs for the purchase ciation met the Chairman of other traditional practices of the of Road Machinery as sanctioned SALESikkim Scheduled Tribe and Gurung community. by North Eastern Council Other Backward Classes Com- Rs. 1,90,38,666 for the con- United Colors of Benetton mission and Advisor to the During the meeting, Mr. struction of Martam-Bermiok- M.G. Marg Chief Minister, BB Gooroong, Gyamtso assured that the State Legship and Sirijunga Gufa Link and Rajya Sabha MP, PT Government would take up the Road in West Sikkim Rs. 91,78,607 for the construc- Gyamtso on 29 January to press matter with the Central Gov- WINTER SALE BEGINS tion of Link Road from Lower its demand for the constitutional ernment and the report will be Lingdum to Adampul km 3rd to FROM recognition of the Gurung com- submitted to the Central Tribal 4th [Phase II] in East Sikkim munity as Scheduled Tribe. Commission. The delegation TH Rs. 25,82,800 for carpeting 27 JAN, 2005 The delegation submitted was led by the Association and protective work to the ap- the ethnographic report of president TB Gurung. proach road to Crematorium, Ranipool in East Sikkim WANTED ARCHIME TUTORIAL [ESTD 2001] Rs. 43,01,785 for the con- Qualified teachers are required for GREENDALE Previously Opp. Govt. Law College, Tibet Road. struction of Link Road from Kin SCHOOL, Tadong, Gangtok for various subjects. [STRICTLY FOR ENGLISH MEDIUM] Stone to Simana Khola km 1st to A LAUNCHING PAD FOR EXCELENCE IN MATHS, Interested candidates are requesed to appear for 2nd in East Sikkim PHYSICS & CHEMISTRY IN I.C.S.E./C.B.S.E the interview on 9th February 2005 in the school Rs. 70,22,240 for the im- Contact us for “CAPSULE COACHING” provement of approach road to premises at 10.00 A.M. For 2005 BOARD EXAM & “HOME TUTION” Rock Garden from Debrong Golai Contact numbers:- [In & Around Gangtok] on Namchi-Damthang Road km 9434103378/9434031018 [Mobile] From Std. VI-XII 1st and 2nd in South Sikkim 03592-231018/232157 Contact No.- 98320-88714, 99322-33349 FOREST DEPARTMENT Residence- Ren Khamri Bldg., Rs. 76,68,700 for implementa- E-mail: [email protected] Near Krishi Bhavan Gate, Tadong turn to pg 7
NEWSSCAN 02 February, 2005; NOW! 5 Can Power become a commercially viable organisation? “Some of the government “We have launched a com- departments are defaulters but plete metering drive and 80 per IT’S TRYING we have apprised the Finance cent of Gangtok has already been not the first drive of the depart- Secretary of this and he has di- covered under the process,” he SUBASH RAI ment to collect the dues. “But rected the concerned depart- informed. He further informed GANGTOK, 01 Feb: Follow- this time we are doing it very ments accordingly,” he said. that other urban towns and rural ing the Central Government’s seriously and in an extensive Mr. Pradhan maintained that areas would be covered shortly. policy to make the power sec- manner,” he said. after this drive, the Department He also revealed that several tor a “commercial organisa- According to Mr. Pradhan, would be able to collect more rev- cases of power theft have come tion,” the Energy & Power the State’s peak requirement of enue than earlier. He further re- to the knowledge of the depart- Department here has started power is around 51 MW, 70 per vealed that people were now re- ment. “Some 15 to 20 consum- a scheme to install metres in cent of which was being pur- alising the importance of power ers were caught stealing power all establishments and chased from outside. conservation along with their duty by our officials in Gangtok in launched a massive power “We have to make prompt to pay for the power they use. the recent drive,” he said. revenue collection drive in the payments to get our supply, oth- Regarding the process to Regarding some particular State which began in October- erwise we have to pay fines make the drive effective, Mr. public complaints like over bill- November, 2004. which are worked out by the Pradhan informed that the de- ing, advance billing and unnec- “The target of this drive is to day,” he said. partment has realised that the essary harassment to the public collect all dues from the consum- According to the Secretary, partments, rural, urban as well earlier billing, which was based by power officials, the Secretary ers by 31 March, 2005,” informed the list of power bill defaulters as industrial consumers. But on computing the average con- has asked for few days time to Power Secretary, DD Pradhan. encompasses all sections of so- maximum dues were from the sumption in many places resulted find out the details about the He maintained that this was ciety, including government de- urban consumers, he revealed. in losses for the department . specific cases raised with him. Diligent educator gets road ...but what about the electrocutions? Though he was immediately named after him a NOW REPORT rushed to Singtam Hospital, he ARITHANG ROAD RENAMED RASMI tory, culture, development of TEMI, 01 Feb: South Sikkim succumbed to his injuries dur- PRASAD ALLEY MARG education, of Nepali people re- witnessed its second electrocu- ing the course of the treatment. siding in Assam. Mr. Alley tion case in two days yesterday After the inquest over the that of educating Sikkim. Be- breathed his last in Gangtok. a NOW REPORT with 25-year-old Khazim dead body and completion of sides taking classes, he prepared The decision of the State Mohammad succumbing to in- all legal formalities, the body GANGTOK, 01 Feb: State Nepali textbooks on his own Government to rename Arithang juries sustained after he acci- was handed over to the brother Cabinet, on 29 January, ap- and also brought in some from Road in Mr. Alley’s name was dentally touched a high-tension of the deceased. The case, how- proved the proposal of re- outside Sikkim. Devoted to the welcomed by Sanu Lama who electric cable that threw him off ever, is under investigation. naming Arithang Road from cause of promoting Nepali lan- was himself recently nominated a two-storeyed building here. A similar case was reported Hotel Sher-e-Punjab up to guage, he conducted extra for Padma Shri for his contribu- The accident took place in Tangzi Village two days ago, Indira Bypass as Rasmi classes at home on Saturdays tion to education and literature. yesterday at around 9 AM when 30 January, when one Til Prasad Alley Marg. and Sundays. Besides these, he “This is a very positive step Mohammad was erecting an Bahadur Chettri, 30, was elec- taken by the Government to pay Coming as it does in the was also known for his contri- iron rod on top of Durga Prasad trocuted while handling electric homage to one who has con- wake of the Best Performing bution towards preparing Nepali Chettri’s building here at Tarku. cables during a power blackout. State in the field of Education grammar and dictionary. tributed so much to Sikkim,” Award for Sikkim, this is apt rec- In 1949, when a 29-day In- Mr. Lama said. Mr. Lama, who was one of ognition for the man regarded as terim Government was formed the students of Mr. Alley, added, one of the founders of the present in Sikkim, he also served as the “The present education system educational system of Sikkim. Minister for Land Revenue and of Sikkim is his blessing and by Born in Assam, the late Mr. Forest Departments. After the honouring him, Sikkim Govern- Alley graduated from Bishop Cot- dissolution of the Ministry, he ment has done the right thing to ton College in Guwahati. After went back to promoting educa- keep Mr. Alley’s memory alive.” coming to Kurseong in 1919, he tion in the State and was ac- CENTRAL REFERRAL began managing the Chandrika tively engaged in the publica- HOSPITAL paper, published by late Parasmani tion of Sikkim Gazette. WALK-IN-INTERVIEW Pradhan, on the request of the di- Though a prominent rector at Hari Printing Press. litterateur, he interestingly does Medical Superintendent & Chief While working there, he was not have any books to his Operating Officer, CRH invites invited by the then Chogyal to take credit. However, several of his suitable candidates to appear for over the charge of the Nepali articles were published in vari- Walk-in-Interview at 10 AM on 15th Boarding School in Gangtok [at ous literary magazines. In 1964, Feb 2005 for the following post: the Old Lall Bazaar] as the Head- Mr. Alley was awarded the gold Nursing Superintendent - 1 post master in 1920. Mr. Alley reached medal for his article Chadma - Having 20 years of experience up to Gelkhola by train and then Pradhan [Blessing in Dis- in the profession with at least walked for four days to reach guise], which was published in 10 years of Administrative Gangtok and take up his new post. Diyalo, a literary magazine. experience (Gross Salary - Then began his journey - The article was based on his- 14,000/-) Nurse (GNM) - 20 posts A COMPANY REQUIRES ITI trained Fitters, Machine Op- - Having a qualification of erators, Technicians - electrical and mechanical, Forklift Graduation in Science with operators having 2 to 3 years industrial experience for Diploma in General Nursing their Sikkim Factory. (Gross salary offered - Rs. 6,900/-) Interested candidates may send their biodata on Candidates who could not attend the Post Box given below stating their age, educational walk in interview may send the qualification, experience and trade. application to. Please mark the envelope with “SAROJ.” Central Referral Hospital 5th Mile, Tadong, East Sikkim - 737 101 Send applications to: SAROJ, P.O. Box No. 84, Website: www.smuhmts.edu/smit email: [email protected] Gangtok, East Sikkim. Ph: 03592-231137 6; NOW!; 02 February, 2005 Cutting and tailoring centre at Mangan will provide the skills, trainees should now become more enterprising start their new venture can also women to avail of this benefi- DEEPAK SHARMA apply for loans, which can be cial training programme that MANGAN, 01 Feb: To equip paid back during the timeframe was being provided free of cost the women of North Sikkim stipulated by the department, it by the department. with self-employment skills, a was informed. While wishing luck to the Cutting & Tailoring Centre for The area Panchayat, new trainees, the Joint Secre- Women was opened yesterday Chumki Saring who was also tary of Welfare Department, LB here at Pentok by the Welfare the chief guest, thanked the turn to pg 10 Department. The department is Welfare Department for estab- also providing six-months’ lishing the centre here and Sikkim State AIDS Control Society free vocational training to in- stressed on seriousness and terested local unemployed punctuality on part of the train- Yangthang Building, Kazi Road women at this Centre. ees. She, however, rued the fact At the inaugural function, that often the trainees, after Gangtok - 737 101 the Welfare Deputy Secretary, completing the training, did not PK Rai, informed that under utilise their skills for commer- EMPLOYMENT NOTICE this new scheme, 28 stitching cial gain, mainly because of machines have been provided their timid nature. Applications from the eligible candidates are invited for filling up the to the centre by the department. Pointing out the increasing following posts in the Society: The official, while informing demand for traditional cos- that the delay in establishing tumes and the lack of skilled 1. Name of Post : Assistant Director, Publicity, Documentation this Centre was due to finan- persons to undertake this task, and Condom Promotion cial crunch, urged the trainees the chief guest stated that the to take the training seriously vocational training provided a Number of posts : 1 (one) and equip themselves with new good opportunity to the local Qualifications : (i) Graduate from any recognised skills that will help them unemployed women to earn University/ Institution, with a good achieve financial self-reliance. their livelihood. She further command over written and spoken English After the successful com- encouraged all unemployed pletion of the training, the train- and Nepali languages with an exposure to ees will be given certificates media preferably Post-graduate diploma/ that will allow them to open NOW! degree in mass media. their own tailoring shops. CLASSIFIEDS (ii) Should be Computer Literate. Those who lack the capital to Age : Below 30 years as on 1st january 2005 ACADEMIA SIKKIM WANTED Salary : Rs. 10,000.00 (Consolidated) per month. Nimtar For Dho-tapu Resto-Bar 2. Name of Post : Counsellor VCTC Namchi. Admissions and Grill, Deorali Vacancies: Number of post : 1 (one) open for 1. Bar Tender - 1 Qualifications : Postgraduate in psychology/ Social Work/ 2. Hostess [Fluent in academic session Psychiatry and Human Development. 2005 English] - 1 3. Restaurant Stewarts - 4 Age : Below 30 years as on 1st January 2005. Nursery to 4. Kitchen helpers - 2 Salary : Rs. 6,500.00 (Consolidated) per month. Class VI Interview on 5th Feb, 2005 contact: 250204 Time: 11 AM 3. Name of Post : P.A. to Project Director for further details at: Dho-Tapu Resto-Bar and Grill, Basement Floor, Number of posts : 1 (one) NOW YOU CAN SNOD Shopping Arcade Qualifications : (i) Graduate from any recognised University ph: (03592) 281501, 280734 Institution, with good command over written CHOOSE TO mobile: 9434080124, 943402018 and spoken English and Nepali languages. LIVE WITHOUT (ii) Proficiency in Typing and Shorthand. WRINKLES FOR SALE (iii) Should be Computer Literate. Tata Spaciio [Model-2002] Introducing ‘BOTOX’ in good condition. Price Age : Below 30 years as on 1st January 2005. a very safe and negotiable. Interested Salary : Rs. 6,000.00 (Consolidated) per month. dramatically effective parties may contact: medication for facial 9832054731 The above posts are purely temporary and appointment will be made wrinkles in a 10-minute of the specific period till 31.03.2006. non-surgical procedure FOR GOLDQUESTERS with a trained Botox ONLY Preference will be given to local candidates possessing Sikkim physician. Results domicile certificate issued by the competent authority. apparent within TRACKING CENTRE days. FOR SALE WITH Applications in the prescribed form available from the office of 250+PRODUCT SOLD For further details BELOW ONE SIDE ONLY. the Society on any working day from 1.2.2005 to 14.2.2005 may be Please contact: CONTACT: 03592-234567, submitted to the Project Director of the Society at the address given 9434164720, above alongwith attested copies of Certificates/ Testimonials so as 9832011505 9434318497 to reach the office of the Society on or before 15.2.2005. Applications TO-LET received after this date will not be considered. The envelope should be properly sealed and superscribed for the post for which 2 1/2 Storied building (3000 sq. ft. approx) with application is sent. Incomplete applications will be rejected. private parking space suitable for office/ resi- dence/ guest house/ hotel at upper sichey, above sd/- District Court. Please contact: 9434077006, (Dr. R.L. Sharma) 9832064696 and 9832011288 Project Director
NEWSSCAN 02 February, 2005; NOW! 7 Chief Whip wants party to go to the roots Health camp for women and children at Nagi-Pamphok GANGTOK, 01 Feb: The SDF Palitam Dara. The camp was ning fund, out of which the that was detected among a PURAN TAMANG vice president and the Chief organised by the Panchayat of Gram Sabha had earlier decided majority of women who came Whip to the State Government, NAMCHI, 01 Feb: A day-long Nagi-Pamphok GPU under the to utilise Rs. 1 lakh for health here today for the checkup, KB Chamling, said that the ru- Integrated Health Camp [IEC micro-planning fund. camps and awareness camps on and most of the children ral populace should be made and Treatment], under the Wel- While Dr. Bijay Tamang, woman and child health. To- brought here suffered from di- aware of the rural developmen- fare Programme for Women child specialist from Namthang day’s camp, he informed, had arrhoea, he added. tal programmes being taken up and Children, was held today Primary Health Centre, pro- been organised with a fund of by the Government. This, he at the Gram Panchayat office of vided free health checkup to the Rs. 50,000 while the remaining added, will enable the villagers children of the area, around 107 half will be used to organise to also actively participate in TO CONTACT NOW! DIAL patients of Nagi-Pamphok health awareness camp. such programmes. He was GPU were also provided free Mr. Gurung also appreci- speaking at a party meet held 271167 medical checkup and medi- ated the role played by the here at the SDF party office in 9434339053 cines. Members of Palitam Panchayat of the respective Deorali yesterday. Youth Club worked as volun- wards in bringing a large At the meet, party members 9832369520 teers at the camp. number of patients to the camp decided to strengthen the party 9832332049 Speaking to NOW!, Jiwan for health checkup. from the grassroots level and Gurung, RDA, Nagi-Pamphok, At the end of the pro- REEBOK SHOWROOM also to work towards making 9832368930 9832082648 informed that Rs. 10 lakh had gramme, Dr. Tamang informed Below Bank of Baroda every village productive. It was been set aside as the micro-plan- that gastritis was an ailment MG Road, Gangtok further decided that the public 9832046839 should be made aware of the 9832080753 Sealed quotations are invited from eligible dealers/ suppliers for various programmes under- taken by the Government for TO BOOK AD-SPACE IN NOW! supply of tools and equipments that are required for introducing new the development of rural and 9832022533 Trades in the Industrial Training Institute (ITI) at Rangpo under the agricultural sectors in the State, 9832080838 Centrally Sponsored Scheme titled “Establishment of ITIs in the North thus allowing them to play a proactive role and strengthen sikkimnow@ Eastern States and Sikkim.” the hands of the Government. sify.com Bid packages containing detailed list of equipments can be obtained from the office of the Director, Technical Education on submission When the Cabinet met last of a written application along with a State Bank of Sikkim receipt for Contd from pg 4 tion of strengthening work of State Biodiversity Park, Tendong, in Rs. 1,000/- (Rupees one Thousand) only credited to MH-0230-L&E South District. Rs. 08.76 lakhs for the implementation of Integrated as of cost of bid package. If bidding documents are to be sent by Forest Protection Scheme. Rs. 181.98 lakhs for the strengthening post courier, postal charges Rs. 300/- (three hundred only) is to be work of the Tsamgang Park at Namchi, South Sikkim PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT paid in the form of demand draft/ cashier’s cheque/ certified cheque The Cabinet approved the summoning of the Sikkim Legislative in favour of the Director, Technical Education, Education Depart- Assembly Session from 21 to 28 February ment, Government of Sikkim at Gangtok on all working days be- HORTICULTURE DEPARTMENT Rs. 32 lakhs for implementation of Organic Farming in Horticulture tween 10.00 hrs and 16.00 hrs, in person. In receiving request by under NEC Programme post for bidding documents as well in sending bidding documents SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT Rs. 248 lakhs for the execution of 2 X 100 KW Micro Hydel demon- by post, the Directorate shall not be liable for postal delay. stration project at Thangu, North Sikkim on turnkey basis SPORTS & YOUTH AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT The quote price should include taxes component as applicable, in- The Cabinet approved the transfer of land [present playfield at Jorethang in South Sikkim] measuring 0.6830 hectors [plot nos. 183 stallation and commissioning charges, transportation cost etc. De- and 211] to the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs livery of equipments should be at ITI, Rangpo. SOCIAL JUSTICE, EMPOWERMENT & WELFARE DEPARTMENT The Cabinet approved the declaration of Lepcha Tribe as Indigenous Package title Tools & equipments to be procured (in brief) Primitive Tribe Group of Sikkim RURAL MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT Rs. 46.94 lakhs for the revival of traditional water sources [342 nos.] PKG-A Computers and its accessories and Rs. 25.65 lakhs for Water Supply Scheme to 94 schools BUILDING & HOUSING DEPARTMENT PKG-B Electronic Equipments Rs. 85.95 lakhs for the construction of District Administrative Build- ing at Namchi, South Sikkim HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT PKG-D Equipments for Instrument Mechanic Trade Rs. 27.12 lakhs for the dismantling and reconstruction of the top floor of the newly constructed Law College Building at Burtuk for the safe passage of helicopter. Rs. 80 lakhs for the implementation of the con- PKG-E Equipments for Cutting & Sewing Trade tinuing scheme for cooked Mid-day Meal Programme for Class I to V. ENERGY & POWER DEPARTMENT Rs. 187.91 crores for implementation of seven small Hydel Power Date of Commencement of sale of bid packages: 04/02/2005. Last Projects on turnkey basis date of sale of Packages 15/02/2005: Opening of bids: 16/02/2005 at 12.00 Noon at the office of the Director, Technical education, Gangtok, in presence of all the members of committee constituted as per the SFR by the Director, Technical Education and also the interested bidders or the representative of the bidders who choose to attend on the specified date and time.

Tsegyal Tashi. Director, Technical Education Release Order No: 563/IPR/04-05 Directorate of Technical Education Date: 1/2/05 Dated: 29/01/2005. Gangtok 8; NOW!; 02 February, 2005 NEWSSCAN
Indigenous Primitive Tribe... Surrounded by strife, Sikkim remains an oasis of peace vided by the Government. Contd from pg 1 and exchange of resource per- in Gangtok which is proposed to The memorandum also Contd from pg 1 est among other tribals like points out that there are a neg- sons,” Mr. Chamling opined. be held around 3rd week of Feb- Bhutias and Sherpas. ligible number of Lepchas in cessfully. The situation is now He also expressed his hopeful- ruary,” said the chief minister. He “The Lepcha population the gazetted service of the normal and under control ness of the Centre considering also invited the chairman, NEC, has decreased over a period of State. According to the book- thanks to the Prime Minister, charting out a localised devel- members of the Planning Com- 108 years from the largest let prepared by the Department Home Minister and the De- opment model driven by the mission and all present to attend population of the state to 8.67 of Personnel - as on 28 August, fence Minister.” sociocultural practices of the the workshop. per cent. The decrease may be 2001, out of the total 1,088 The commitment of Sikkim region, local demography and Earlier, the Home Minister, due to high Infant Mortality gazetted officers, only 58 [5.33 to maintain peace and tranquil- proper harnessing of the re- Mr. Patil, in his speech stressed Rate, Maternal Mortality Rate per cent] were Lepchas. lity, he said should justify its gion’s natural endowments. on beefing up the internal secu- and lack of awareness about “The ethnographic report claims for a peace bonus. He also informed that he had rity systems of the north eastern health care facilities,” the [submitted by the SLYA and “We have been requesting the a very fruitful discussion with states. For this he suggested the memorandum recorded. based on the pre-agricultural Centre for a peace bonus which the NEC Secretary, Dr. Kamal setting up of a Unified High It further stated that among level of technology, low literacy is a long pending demand of the Taori and his accompanying of- Command in each of the states the tribals of Sikkim [Bhutia- level and stagnant population] State government,” informed Mr. ficers during their visit to under the respective chief min- Lepcha, Sherpa, Tamang and justifies the status of primitive Chamling and expressed hope Sikkim in January. Decentrali- isters and one nodal officer from Limboo], the economic condi- tribal group to the indigenous that the Centre would consider the sation was the main topic of the Centre. This agency would tion of Lepchas was the lowest Lepcha Tribe of Sikkim,” the claim for the bonus to the tune of their agenda. monitor the progress of the in- and they had been unable to com- Principal Secretary had argued Rs. 1,000 crores. “I look forward to continue telligence networks of the respec- pete with other, more education- in her Cabinet memorandum. Mr. Chamling also ap- the discussion when we hold the tive states. He also called for a ally and economically advanced The Cabinet obviously pealed for the enhancement of Regional Planning strategy of the revamp and up gradation of ex- tribes to avail of the facilities pro- agreed and hence the approval. the intelligence network in North Eastern Region Workshop isting intelligence networks. Sikkim for which he said the Centre should make a separate SIKKIM SC, ST AND OBC DEVELOPMENT Emergency in Nepal provision for funding. He also democracy and the support of suggested several sectors in CORPORATION (SABCCO) Contd from pg 1 the people of Nepal.” which the north-eastern states “These developments con- International flights to Ne- could work together. AUCTION NOTICE stitute a serious setback to the pal were turned back on Tues- “We can learn from each Sealed tenders are invited for the sale on cause of democracy in Nepal day as the airport in the capital other and can be mutually com- Auction of one Commander (Commander and cannot but be a cause of Kathmandu was closed. plementary both in the transfer grave concern to India,” the for- of technology, local products No. SK04/3756) on ‘As is where is condition’ eign ministry said in a statement. along-with a Temporary deposit receipt (TDR) “The safety and welfare of Argun of State Bank of Sikkim, Gangtok for Rs. the political leaders must be en- The Argun of Late B.B.Gurung who left for 5000/- only drawn in favour of Managing sured and political parties must heavenly abode on 13 January 2005 falls on 2nd be allowed to exercise all the February 2005, Wednesday. All relatives, well Director, SABCCO, Gangtok. rights enjoyed by them under the wishers are requested to join us in offering Details of the vehicle are as under:- prayers for the departed soul at our residence Constitution,” the ministry said 1. Type of vehicle- Commander after reports of senior politicians at Lower Arithang, Beside Arithang Govt. School. We would like to express our gratitude to all 2. Engine No.- DX-14066 being put under house arrest. those who extended their support and sympathy The Indian statement said, during our time of bereavement. 3. Chasis No.- DX-14066 “We will continue to support Mrs. Janaki Gurung (wife), Rosy & Rajni 4. Year of manufacture- 1999 the restoration of political sta- (daughters) Roshan & Rabin (sons) Ex.Col. P.B bility and economic prosperity Gurung (brother) Mohan Gurung (200107) 5. Registration No.- SK04/3756 in Nepal, a process which re- 6. Offset Price- Rs. 1,00,000/- quires reliance on the forces of Anthyesthi Kriya (one lakh) Full Thirteenth Day death rites of my wife Smt. Asha Gupta, aged 77 Sealed Tenders with TDR should reach the range of years, who left us all for the heavenly abode on 21 January, 2005, th readymade at my house in 31 NH, opposite the Ratilal Bansilal Petrol Pump, office of the MD/GM on 17 February, 2005 suits Gangtok, will be held on 02 February, 2005 [Wednesday]. All Thursday before 12 noon and will be opened friends, colleagues, relatives and well wishers are once more re- quested to join us in the ceremony and offer prayers for the de- on the same day by the tender committee in parted soul on the day. the presence of tenderer at 2 p.m. The We also express our gratitude with grateful thanks, through this column, to all those friends, colleagues, well wishers and rela- vehicle is parked at SABCCO office tives for their support, sympathy and words of consolation at the premises, Bhanupath, Gangtok, East Sikkim STYLE time of the bereavement and also having joined us for her funeral Hotel Golden Pagoda, on 22 January, 2005. and interested party may inspect the vehicle MG Marg, Gangtok RK Gupta, IAS [Retd], Gupta Building, Gangtok, with any day prior to the Auction date. The tender Sons: Anil Kumar Gupta with wife Pushpa, Arun Kumar Gupta, from can be obtained from SABCCO office Dr. PK Gupta with wife Sumita. Daughters: Renu Gupta, on payment of Rs. 500/- in the cash counter. Anthyesthi Nalini G Pradhan with son-in-law PK Pradhan The highest bidder shall be required to Kriya deposit the amount bid within 48 hours from Dr. B. S. Basnet expired on Kutse Shegu 27.01.2005. Antheyesti Kriya falls The Kutse Shegu of Late Dr. Dechen Norbu the date of acceptance failing which the on 08.02.2005. At their residence Bhutia who left for his heavenly abode on 17 corporation shall not be responsible for any at Lower Sichhey (below Sichhey December, 2004, falls on Thursday, 03 Taxi Stand). February, 2005. All friends, relatives and well- loss and the TDR amount so deposited shall Smt. Prava Basnet (wife), wishers are requested to join us in offering be forfeited. Ashim & Luna (son and prayers for the departed soul at our residence daughter-in-law), Anoopa & at Lower Tadong, above Kajla Petrol Pump. The corporation reserves the right to accept Anuja (daughters), Mr. and We would also like to express out gratitude to or reject all or any of the tenders without Mrs. D. B. Basnet (elder brother all those who extended support and sympathy at the time of bereavement and we regret our assigning any reasons thereof. and sister-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. inability to thank and express our gratitude Karna Basnet ( younger brother individually. Sd/- and sister-in-law), Miss Padma Smt. Neelam N Bhutia [wife], Guinee N (GENERAL MANAGER) BAsnet (sister), Mr. and Mrs. L. Namchangcorpa and Gegee N Namchangcorpa B. Dikshit (sister and brother- [daughters], Gyalden N Namchangcorpa [son] SABCCO, Bhanupath, Gangtok, Sikkim in-law) & all other members of Phone No: 270437; Mobile No: 9434117577 Phone No.: 229430 the bereaved family.
NEWSSCAN 02 February, 2005; NOW! 9 litNOW!, the literary section of NOW! stages a comeback with this issue. What better day than today to launch on such an endeavour that the birthdays of the influential writers of modern times like James Joyce and Ayn Rand. litNOW! results from the belief that good writers will be produced when a platform is provided for them to showcase their works. Hopefully this exercise will also grow into more than just a forum for writers and secure a readership of its own. We won’t know until we try, so here goes. Entries for litNOW! can be mailed to NOW!, Gairi Gaon, Tadong - 737102, East Sikkim or emailed to [email protected]

Forget Kathmandu: An Kathmandu and why Elegy for Democracy: Manjushree is on a book promo- Manjushree Thapa tion drive in India and not Ne- Penguin Books India; pal. This book has all the mak- Hardback, Rs. 350 NEPAL’S SMASH ings of becoming Nepal’s “Smash and Grab.” n June 2001, King Birendra About the Maoist problem, Bir Bikram Shah was killed & GRAB she writes: “It is a little crazy to Iin a massacre at think of Maoists in today’s day Kathmandu’s Narayanhiti royal the tangled politics of her coun- illustrated the breaking down of and age and indeed we in palace, allegedly by his own son, try [the writer explains it as a a unique way of life. She then at- Kathmandu initially didn’t quite the crown prince, and the world work of “subjective history”], tempted fiction with “A Tutor of believe that they were for real. Manjushree examines what has BOOK English” [Penguin] and returns to took new notice of Nepal. A Now, of course, it’s clear that slew of books followed. Most gone wrong, and why. Starting REVIEW the genre of nonfiction with For- they are. Though I’m not sure were written by beat reporters with an account of the get Kathmandu. why the government cannot beat who followed the assasination Narayanhiti massacre and its Manjushree is also a brave them back. The army is definitely and were little more than a di- aftermath, she goes back in time writer. She writes in detail about better armed and have far better ary of events. Most lacked in- to trace history, often chaotic, of how the people have lost faith in infrastructure but the Maoists sight and few spared pages on Nepal’s monarchy since unifi- both, the once revered monarchy, have the will. You see, most of what the wiping out of the rul- cation in the 18th century, and and the democratic process. “The them are boys, kids really, who ing party meant for Nepal. The of the struggle, in the 20th cen- massacre made the royals only have had no education and know world followed the murder story tury, for genuine democracy. too human and the aura faded. that they have no future, no jobs, story and lost track. Problems, She ends with a record of her But the political parties have nothing. So the ‘revolution’ gives however, continued for Nepal trek into Maoist-held territories done nothing for the people and them something to do.” with the Maoist insurgency in west Nepal, where the major- are too narrow-minded to take Manjushree’s recalling of which has led to the clamping ity continue to live in poverty, the country forward,” she writes. history is deeply personal, as of a State of Emergency in Ne- human rights abuses are on the She also goes into the details of she sees guns blazing on the pal now. But Manjushree Thapa rise, and boys and girls as young the various conspiracy theories hills, she also notices the com- is more sensitive writer. She as thirteen have taken to the gun. surrounding the royal massacre, ing of gelled hair, belly button takes the murder story beyond A skilful mix of history, re- including the ones which blame piercing, “tight black pants and the incident itself and follows portage, memoir and travel writ- effort as the finest works of non- the present king for having engi- long, sharp heels”. the trail out of Kathmandu [that ing, Forget Kathmandu is an un- fiction from the subcontinent in neered the assasination. She has This is an important book explains Forget Kathmandu in precedented examination of Ne- recent times. There is no doubt little words of praise for the for Nepal and because it is so the title] into rural Nepal and pal’s past and present. The gifts that Manjushree is a sensitive present incumbent and very lit- well written, also of interest of gets to the root of the problems of insight and lucidity that Thapa writer. Her first book was a work tle for the politicians back home. anyone interested in the disin- ailing the Hindu kingdom. brings to her intensely political of non-fiction “Mustang Bhot in This is perhaps why the book was tegrating Himalayan kingdom. In this illuminating study of narrative has led reviewers hail her Fragments” [Himal Books] which released in New Delhi and not -PEMA BRASKONE inverse

- KESANG ONGMU

Adam, first man on earth so of Eve Pray tell us how you proposed to her As far as we know there was no rose day then Perhaps you dated in a cave.

You must have promised her the sun and the moon walked away the day I de dimmed I had a vague satisfac- to understand that I was no A sapphire tinge and sanguine future cided to follow the bright tion of seeking stubs of ciga- longer alone. I felt the sweet Serene humility and eternal happiness promising lights. I walked rette, empty cans tossed in the presence of someone beside I And merry chimes of wedding bells soon. in search of fame and money, aisles. In those paper cups I saw me. Something I had been look- yearning to be fulfilled, im- the reflection of what my life ing for, someone I had lost but You must have sang her the song of love mersed in the richness of what could be. I wanted to cry but who had found me. It was that Taught her the value of joe-de-vivre I thought. What else can you the tear glands were dry, I had instant I knew my quest was Along with the first lesson of humble think when you bat an eye lid nothing left in me. I felt used over. I knew that I was no submission and have thousands at your feet and empty, tossed by the whim- longer to be like an empty dis- Not to soar like an eagle but to coo like a dove as people milled around me, I sical dreams of the faithless carded bottle on a highway, I was alone in the crowd. I masses. I sought for love, got had a purpose in life. It was A mother, a sister, a wife, in all three she searched willingly, unwillingly. admiration for what I portrayed. “THE TRUTH” I had been clung I found nothing because I did I ran from pillar to post search- seeking and that too in all the Someone to look up when feeling down not know what I was looking ing for the one thing that eluded wrong places but love had A shoulder to cry on, a true find indeed for. The emptiness of clicking me. I sought it in the bars, stu- reached out to me when I had In whose arms you need not prove yourself followed me in mock derision dios and all the places where given up hope. It was then I strong. I stood in the limelight, like a people go to make their dreams understood the essence of life joker in the pack; sought after a reality. to accept the gift of love and You brought forward the chain of humanity but seeking. When the lights As I sat entranced, I began let love conquer all. The great descendents of homo sapiens Now getting multiplied into masters of hooligans Look what mess you have wrought thanks to every wednesday that brief slip into impiety. 10; NOW!; 02 February, 2005 THEFINALONE
today in ARIES: Your spouse may be in CAPRICORN: It seems unlikely trouble where his/her work is con- that you will feel particularly keen History cerned. Your counsel can help. to involve yourself in any work Take it easy today. that requires concentration. You 02nd February TAURUS: Take care of your will much rather spend your time 0962: Pope John XII crowns health, especially if suffer from guests at home. you commit to others. with loved ones. German King Otto I the Great a sleep disorder. Have faith in VIRGO: Your ability to move SCORPIO: You could struggle to AQUARIUS: You will feel the need Emperor yourself: you are equipped to through problems and deal with display your feelings. You may find to share your innermost feelings 1811: Russian settlers establish handle anything that comes loved ones could be challenging. that the smallest of things hurt you with someone close to you today. Fort Ross trading post, north of your way. How you visualize personal mat- today. No one will realize this, so A woman is generally a good re- San Francisco GEMINI: There is too much work, ters could change. get thick-skinned immediately. cipient. Love life is wonderful. 1852: 1st British public men’s and there is no choice left, but to LIBRA: Someone you have SAGITTARIUS: You may be irrita- PISCES: You need to concen- toilet opens (Fleet St London) let the reins down for a bit and known for long may have designs ble today, snapping and shouting trate more on the current project 1861: Born, Mehmed VI let someone help you. Give fear on you. This is shocking and for very little reason. Careful, as and on clinching lucrative deals. Vahideddin, last sultan of a rest, start a pleasant innings. pleasant. Your acidic words can others will be unable to understand A good day to help do small jobs, Ottoman Empire [1918-22] CANCER: Children are fun this hurt somebody. Be careful before your apparently poor temper. or redecorate the house. 1870: Mark Twain, 34, marries evening. Plan a social evening Olivia Langdon in Elmira NY and enjoy yourself. What you like 1882: Born, James Joyce or dislike about others is a reflec- Ireland, novelist/poet [Dubliners, tion of who you are. Ulysses, Finnigan’s Wake] LEO: The chink in your armour 1892: Longest boxing match is exposed. Do not try to cover it under modern rules; 77 rounds up. A secluded place may inspire in Nameoki, Illinois between you to a new mission. Expect Harry Sharpe & Frank Crosby 1905: Born, writer Ayn Rand writer [Atlas Shrugged, The Geyzing Cultural Fountainhead] 1906: Pope encyclical against separation of church & state Nite for 1920: Estonia declares its Independence from Russia Tsunami relief (Dorpat Peace) GEYZING: 26 February is the 1922: James Joyce’s “Ulysses” published in Paris [1,000 copies] date finalised for the Cultural 1932: Al Capone sent to prison Night that will be held here at 1933: 2 days after becoming the Community Hall to collect NOW!, Gairi Gaon, Tadong - 737 102, East Sikkim chancellor, Adolf Hitler dissolves relief fund for the Tsunami vic- Parliament tims. The proceeds of the mu- 1933: Göring bans communist sical programme, organised by meetings/demonstrations in Germany the West District Tsunami Re- 1934: Dutch Roman Catholic lief Committee, will be sent to Bishops warn against fascism/ Prime Minister’s Relief Fund. Nazism Carnival band, along with the 1935: Lie detector 1st used in renowned local artists, will per- court abacus form during the show. Cultural abacus 1942: Los Angeles Times urges great security measures against programmes will also be pre- Japanese-Americans sented by various local non- Winter Sale 1942: Born, rocker Graham governmental organisations. UPTO at: Nash [Crosby, Stills, Nash & The tickets have been priced at Abacus Young-Southern Cross, Hollies] Rs. 500, Rs. 100 and Rs. 50. on all SNOD Complex 1943: Battle of Stalingrad ends This was decided during a with final surrender of the Deorali meeting that was also attended 50% brands German army, turning point of DISCOUNT WWII by Up-Adhyaksha [West], Su- 1944: Allied troops 1st set foot perintendent of Police [West] on Japanese territory and departmental heads of the 1949: 1st 45 RPM record district. The West District Tsu- released nami Relief Committee has 1957: UN adopts a resolution calling for Israeli troops to leave also requested all to attend the Egypt programme and donate gener- 1962: 8 of 9 planets align for 1st ously. [IPR] time in 400 years 1963: First appearance of Pebbles Flintstone fictional Cutting & tailoring character on “The Flintstones” 1964: GI Joe, debuts as a centre at Mangan... popular American boy’s toy 1971: Idi Amin ousts Milton Contd from pg 6 Obote to become dictator of Chettri, also stressed on punc- Uganda tuality, discipline and serious- 1970: Bertrand Russell ness. He also informed that, in philosopher, British MP, dies in February, the department would Merioneth at 97 establish a computer centre at 1986: Dalai Lama meets Pope Rinchenpong where the train- John Paul II in India 1987: Philippines adopts ees will be provided an eight- constitution months’ course. 1989: F[rederik] W[illem] de Also present during the in- Klerk replaces Botha as South augural programme were Addi- Africa’s Nationalist Party leader tional Secretary, S Topgay, and 1990: de Klerk promises to free Welfare Officer, Ugen Nelson Mandela & legalizes Gyurmick. African National Congress & 60 other political organizations TO BOOK AD-SPACE IN NOW! 1996: Gene Kelly actor/dancer (Singing in the Rain), dies at 83 271167 1998: Philippine DC-9 crashes 9832022533 apparently killing all 104 on board 9832080838

Published by Lt. Col. (retd) P. Dorjee and printed at Baba Offset Press Works Pvt. Ltd., Gangtok. Editor: Pema Wangchuk. Now! Near Ayurvedic Clinic, Gairi Gaon, Tadong. East Sikkim. ph: 03592 271167 email: [email protected]; [email protected]