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BAICHUNG SIGNS WITH EAST BENGAL, EUROPE THE COMPANY NO AMOUNT OF PATRONAGE COULD SALVAGE OPTION STILL OPEN “IT FEELS GOOD TO BE BACK,” SAYS REFINING THE BAICHUNG ON RETURN TO OLD CLUB VANASPATI The ruling SDF Government, in its first Budget session in 1994, released a White Paper on the financial problems it had inherited. Funds sunk into Sikkim Vanaspati Ltd. were widely publicised, as was the fact that the earlier regime had sat guarantor to even big- ger loans availed by the company. The company defaulted on the loans and yet another liability has fallen on the shoulders of the present government. The Cabinet’s recent decision to allow a CBI enquiry into the entire Vanaspati mess should now bring new facts MESS to light on why a company so obviously in the red, continued to get State patronage... TURN TO pg 3 FOR DETAILS CABINET OKAYS CBI SCANNER ON TURN TO pg 12 FOR DETAILS SIKKIM VANASPATI LTD. BUNGLE

GANGTOK: Luck, they say, plays a major part in deciding the fate of a bid on the Everest. On May 21, earlier last month, Sikkim’s Nadre Sherpa proved that pluck can turn around a spell of bad luck. Winds on the Everest were the most ferocious BACK FROM THE when Nadre Sherpa and his climbing partner left to the summit on the midnight of May 20. Tents were being torn off their pegs and the duo even lost some equipment to the winds. They, however, persevered even as all other climbers called off their summit bids that day. After 12 hours of struggle against wind TOP OF THE and snow, they had conquered Everest. A second time for Nadre Sherpa, but admittedly, the tough- est climb ever. Nadre Sherpa returned to a low-key welcome in Sikkim. Many Sikkimese are perhaps even una- WORLD ware of his achievement. NOW! caught up with him and had him recount some of his Everest experience... NADRE SHERPA’S BACK TURN TO pg 8 FOR DETAILS

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Nayuma Building, Namchi Bazar GOT BIG DREAMS??? Namchi. Phone: 263919 Of course! You care about your future, e-mail: [email protected] But you need someone who cares about it even more... 2;GANGTOK NOW! June 04-10, 2003 JUNE 04-10, 2003 ED-SPACE NOW! WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT SIKKIM MATTERS THE SOURCE Taking Over From Nepal The ongoing ceasefire between the Maoists and the govern- OF ALL LIFE ment notwithstanding, Nepal’s economy is in the doldrums. An ronmental and Development under economy which had already been hit hard by the reduction in "Water - Two Billion People are Dying for it," this is the Article 5.2. It is to be noted that Gurkha compositions of armies around the world [its highest theme the United Nation Environment Programme has an integrated land and water man- foreign revenue earner], is now grappling with reduced tourist set for the World Environment Day this year. Dr. GOPAL agement approach is extremely inflow and abandoned foreign investments. The recent hoopla important to sustain various other surrounding the golden jubilee of the Everest ascent was forced PRADHAN, Senior Environmental Scientist, Department of activities. The importance of more from the need for some positive publicity than debating Forest Environment and Wildlife, points out how each water as a finite, though a renew- whether Everest had actually become the most expensive and every one of us can help safeguard our most pre- able, resource must be clearly rec- guided tour or not. The mandarins of Nepal are in panic mode. cious natural resource... ognised. Land and water use must Investors are fleeing Nepal everyday and more are looking for be considered together. options elsewhere. Travel trade giants, carpet manufacturers, educationists, NGOs, everyone is taking the hiatus in violence he invocation of water in Under National Conservation as a time to take stock and cut their losses. Many have already religious rituals is common of Natural Resources of Land and left the Himalayan kingdom and still more are on the way out. Tall over the country. A per- Water statement the strategies have And, everyone is looking for an alternative. While what has son takes a handful of water and been clearly defined for their sus- happened in Nepal, without getting judgemental about either calls upon the Ganga, Yamuna, tainable use vide Article 1.4 of 5.2. side, is sad, Sikkim would be foolish not to fill the vacuum it Saraswati, Narmada, Krishna, A majority of the villages in leaves behind. Sindhu and Kaveri to manifest India depend on ground water for Let us see what makes Nepal a popular tourist destination. themselves in that handful. The domestic consumption. Its unique mix of Buddhist and Hindu ethos and culture at- simple message is of reverence to The vast potential of ground tracts as many tourists as its range of trekking routes. Moun- water as being precious, the basis water has either been over-ex- taineering is a big draw and so are the casinos and resorts. of sustenance of life and as a sym- ploited or under-utilised. For cen- Accessibility to Tibet makes it an important transit point and for bol of purity. turies people have dug wells for ir- those looking for a more grassroots experience, rural Nepal is Water is a natural resource and rigation, agricultural and human never too far away from the towns. Although we could do with the fundamental basis of life. consumption. But due to the advent some changes in entry regulations, all these factors are present Clean water is an essential com- of tube wells and the spread of irri- in Sikkim too. The tourists, we know, are interested in Sikkim, ponent of a healthy environment. gation and growth of cities, the but thwarted by the lack of information on the destination. All it 97 per cent of global water re- level of ground water is dropping will take to divert a major percentage of tourist traffic bound for sources are locked up in oceans fast. Irrigation and rural need ac- Nepal to Sikkim will be the right exposure and publicity at places and estuaries and marshes making count for 90 per cent of country’s where tourists normally gather before proceeding to Nepal - it unusable due to salinity and al- water use. It has now become es- probably Bangkok, but that is for the bosses at the tourism kalinity, yet the balance 3 per cent sential to recharge the ground wa- department to figure out. But it is not just tourists that can be available to us in the form of riv- of lakes and reservoirs. They ac- ter artificially. The need for small diverted to Sikkim from Nepal. Over the years, the expat com- ers, lakes and glaciers is ample to count for about 2,125 million md. dams and ground water projects munity has invested substantial amounts in trade and com- meet the requirements of terres- utilisable water resource. The 12 can be built up quickly without merce in Nepal. With incidents of extortion on the rise, this trial and aquatic life-forms. There major river basins, along with their causing serious damage to the en- community is hoping to shift its investments. The same rea- are still instances when there too tributaries, account for 85 per cent vironment while the larger projects sons which brought tourists to Nepal, also brought in invest- much water at one place and a of the total surface flow and about are costly to execute and usually ments and Sikkim fits the bill as a possible alternative and has drought elsewhere. 80 per cent of the total population have long gestation periods. the added advantage of peace, something that will appeal to In our country, water is depends on them. The country, it is estimated, has those who have suffered through the prolonged hostility in sourced from rivers, glaciers and The importance water needs a total of 1,142 cubic kms utiliz- Nepal. Disseminating information on the benefits that inves- the ground. All these sources, no reiteration and for this reason, able ground water resources and tors in Sikkim enjoy should tilt the balance in Sikkim’ favour, however, depend particularly on sufficient Constitutional safe- 452 cubic km could be replenished. but for that, the prospective investors have to be sounded off the amount of precipitation guards of this important resource Our subcontinent is blessed by on what Sikkim has to offer. A seminar in Kathmandu present- through the monsoonal cycle, have been guaranteed by Article presence of the Himalayan range ing Sikkim as an investor-friendly destination would not only hence, when monsoons are late or 38,39 (b) (c) and Article 48 (a), which plays a major role in the help investors, but also the local policy-makers on what need to be put into place to accommodate foreign investments. weak water shortage causes seri- Article 51 (a) and (g). Furthermore country’s hydrological cycle and These efforts are neither cost-intensive, nor complicated. ous problems and disruptions of all policy documents such as National guarantees a perpetual water source Should Sikkim fail, at least it would not be for want of initiative. productive activities. Denudation Water Policy 1987, National River thereby making the most populated Tourism was still nascent in Sikkim when Kashmir closed down of forest, loss of top soil due to Action Plan, 1994 have already river basin of the country, the Gan- and the industrial policy unformed when investors fled West excessive erosion and severe en- been framed for best utilization of ges basin as the most fertile zone Bengal; we are better prepared now and although it sounds vironmental pollution further ag- this resource in priority areas such in the world. There is a need for rather opportunistic we definitely should seize the day. gravate the normal glaciological as drinking water, irrigation and formulation of master plan for man- and monsoonal pattern of the sub- hydel power. agement of water resources based continent. Thus, India despite of Water resource development on the extent and nature of Should Khaki Induce Fear? her vast network of rivers, faces was also a priority area in the five Himalayan glaciers; their melt rates perennial problems of drought, years plans. In the 4th and 5th plan and consequent seasonal and diur- The Indian Police is of colonial make. The British masters floods and grossly polluted water integrated approach of water and nal flow of water by melting of gla- required a force to keep the natives in check. Solving crimes resources. land resources and long term de- ciers in the state of Sikkim. was only incidental to this aim since it helped the rulers keep In the context of national sce- velopment plans for irrigation In Sikkim, land and water con- the troublemakers [and potential challengers of their rule] locked up. Khaki, the cop colour, was engineered to induce nario, there are large number of were granted prime importance. In servation measures have been re- fear. It has been fifty-four years since colonial rule ended for rivers in the country which run to the 6th plan, the thrust area under ceiving a fair amount of importance India, but the policing mindset is yet to change. The situation a total length of over 45,000 kms. water resource development was and demands greater importance becomes even more grave when the police force believes These rivers fall under the follow- towards integrated approach to under both plan and non-plan as the that it is the only salvager of the society’s morality. A crack- ing three categories of river basins command area development. Then state is completely mountainous down on certain social ills might be mandated by law, but having a total catchment area of in the 7th plan, programmes were with very poor soil fertility and high civil rights of a human being cannot be trampled upon. The 3.12 million square kms. envisaged towards long term irri- run off. Out of 7,096 sq km geo- recent beating up of a truck driver in Gangtok by inebriated MAJOR BASINS: 12, with a gation planning, flood control, pre- graphical area of Sikkim, 25 per cops was a rare case, but reports of custodial thrashing and catchment area of over 20,000 vention of environmental deterio- cent is a barren mass covered with public arrests and parades are common. Cops should real- sqkm each. ration in flood prone areas and to- perpetual snow and hence all the ise that democracy is not just about electing representatives MEDIUM BASINS: 46, with wards water supply and sanitation. soil and water conservation is taken of our choice, but also about living with self-respect. Each catchment area between 2,000 to Furthermore, sufficient em- up in the rest 75 per cent of total time someone in khaki treats a person like a criminal even 20,000 sqkm each. phasis has been laid on land and geographical area. during something as routine as a mobile check, they trample MINOR BASINS: 55, with catch- water resources conservation in Although different treatment on the person’s right to dignity. ment area below 2,000 sqkms. the National Conservation Strat- methodologies are adopted by dif- In addition there are a number egy and policy statement on Envi- turn to pg 6

24 June 04-10, 2003; NOW! 3 RECAPRECAP SIKKIMSIKKIM CABINET APPROVES CBI SCANNER FOR VANASPATI BUNGLE thing the present State Government The White Paper also mentions cial sources put the repayment of creditors who are demanding a a NOW REPORT inherited from past regimes when a Rs. 2 crore working capital loan amount in the vicinity of Rs. 30 tidy packet, now that the interest it first came into power in 1994. to SVL from SIDICO in 1989. crores. Sources further reveal that component of the loan has shot as- GANGTOK: The State Cabinet A “White Paper on Current Fi- Unconfirmed sources contend this the State Government owned a 49 tronomically high. Rather than has decided to “contest the case” nancial Position of the Government to have been an interest-free loan per cent stake in the company, the wriggle out of a suit in Debts Re- and “seek” a CBI “enquiry” into of Sikkim,” tabled by the SDF Gov- which never got utilised properly. rest of which was controlled by covery Tribunal by opting for the the financial bungling at Sikkim ernment in its first Budget Session The SVL was allegedly fa- private individuals. one-time settlement offer, the Vanaspati Limited (SVL). in 1994, revealed that SVL had in- voured by the then ruling Sikkim Despite the more than hand- present government appears to The Cabinet, which met on curred an accumulated loss of Rs. Sangram Parishad government some financial package, SVL have decided to not crumble un- Saturday evening, took the deci- 10.12 crores against its share capi- paving the way for the huge loans could never rise above the debt der the debt burden inherited by sion after the Industries Depart- tal of Rs. 1.81 crores. The earlier that were sanctioned for it. trap and eventually sunk. The State it. At least, not without a fight. The ment sought its opinion on the One government had even sat guaran- Informed sources reveal that Government, playing the dual role CBI “enquiry,” when it comes Time Settlement offered on the tor against SVL’s Rs. 400 lakh loan a legal case is still pending at the of major shareholder and guaran- about, should offer some startling loans availed by SVL from finan- from IDBI as part of a revival pack- Debts Recovery Tribunal in tor on loans is left facing the line revelations. cial and banking institutions like age which had failed. In 1994, IDBI Guwahati for non payment of the IDBI, IFCI, ICICI and SBI. was already threatening to invoke loans by the now closed company. From recognition to trade, can The SVL debt-burden is some- the guarantee. Rough estimates by top offi- Sikkim make the journey? GANGTOK: The only issue holding back the resumption of trade over Nathula and Jelepla - China’s persistent refusal to “recognise” the 1975 merger - appears headed for a resolution. The right sounds A week of transfers are emanating with officials in Beijing claiming that they had the “political will” to solve the Sikkim dispute if India reciprocates with The first round of transfers will take over as Namchi DPO. a better understanding of China’s security concerns. a NOW REPORT also put officers on newly created The shuffle at the more senior China’s linking of Sikkim with its own security concerns is a posts in the districts and subdivi- level includes the transfer of Ad- hint to New Delhi to come up with a reciprocal re-clarification on GANGTOK: The sleepy corri- sions, that of the District Planning ditional Secretary, Home, CP Tibet and Taiwan. India recognises Tibet as an “autonomous part of dors of the State bureaucracy saw Officer (DPO) and Subdivisional Dewan taking charge as Director, China” and follows a “one-China policy,” resulting in zero-diplo- some hectic activity with the ad- Development Officer. IPR, relieving P. Thondup who is matic relations with Taiwan. Interactions between Taipei and Delhi ministration affecting more than Pursuant to this creation, KK now the Special Secretary, Chief have been restricted to trade and economic cooperation. China on 80 transfers within a week. Kafley, leaves his Joint Secretary Minister’s Secretariat. Industries its part does not recognise Sikkim as an integral part of India. Coming in the wake of 25 office at the Food Department to Joint Secretary, PT Euthenpa will More than India, it will be China that benefits with the opening weekend transfers, were 55 more take charge as the new DPO for take charge as the Director of of the old trade route which will bring the Kolkata and Dhaka docks transfer orders on June 2, Monday West. Anil Raj Rai, SDM, Panchayats under the Rural Devel- much closer to Lhasa than the present nearest port of Hong Kong. for mid and senior level bureau- Ravangla, is now the DPO East at opment Department. Sikkim will obviously benefit too as the State sitting over the pass, crats. Among the fresh lot of trans- Gangtok. TM Rai will be the new Many of the newly recruited as would tourists and pilgrims to Kailash Mansarovar who can now fers, 31 are technocrats handling Ravangla SDM while Yashoda Under Secretaries have also been travel to the holy site over land. the engineering departments. Bhandari, deputy secretary (health) posted as Subdivisional Develop- These overtures are more than just symbolic and might actually ment Officers. get announced during the PM’s June visit to China. Environmental concern

this year - Water Coinciding with the CM’s call, HURRY a NOW REPORT the Forest, Environment & Wild- Win with life Department is also organizing ALTO SCHEME EXTENDED!!! GANGTOK: Chief Minister a tree plantation season for this Pawan Chamling has called for the year from the first week of June. Rs. 11,00000 preservation of water resources on The State government has also the occasion of World Environment been advocating the concept of BUMPER Buy an ALTO before Day which falls on June 5. Billed as Smriti Van (Memorial Forest) in all the “greenest chief minister” in the the districts with the idea of involv- PRIZE th country, Mr. Chamling, in an appeal ing the society at large in nature 15 June 2003 to the people of Sikkim, has said that conservation. Under this unique this year’s World Environment Day scheme, any individual or organi- theme - Water - Two Billion People sation can plant trees on any occa- Win with ALTO Get Rs. 8,000 CASH are Dying for It - calls for “commu- sion in the remembrance of near Rs. 10,000 nity participation” in “safeguarding and dear ones in designated areas. DISCOUNT the most precious resource for life Rs. 3,000 on our planet-water.” FORMER DGP RETURNS He has called for various ac- Rs. 2,000 RS. 5,000 worth of accessories tivities at the community level to AS SMU VC Rs. 1,000 FREE on every purchase of bring about awareness on environ- GANGTOK: Former DGP, Sik- mental issues. “Clean up cam- kim Police, LC Amarnathan, re- CELEBRATION ALTO WAGON R, ZEN & OMNI paigns for jhoras, natural springs turns to Sikkim as the Vice Chan- and other water bodies in govern- cellor, Sikkim Manipal University + FREE extended warranty on ment and residential premises, of Health and Medical and Tech- WAGON R & ZEN street rallies and shows on envi- nological Sciences. He succeeded Not Applicable for ronmental issues relevant to the Prof. Kulkarni on June 1, Sunday. Government and Taxi vehicles community should be organised on An MSc from Presidency Col- this day,” he says in his address. lege, Madras, Mr. Amarnathan Mr. Chamling also said that started off as a scientific officer tree plantation programme of lo- with the Atomic Energy Commis- ENTEL MOTORS 6TH MILE, TADONG. cal species should be also taken sion, before opting for a life in PH: 231828, 232341, 232059 up to mark the Day. Khaki in 1967.

35 4; NOW! June 04-10, 2003 PANCHAYAT ELECTIONS UNFAIR ALL OVER POWERPOWER PLAYPLAY THUS FAR, SAYS MANI SHANKAR AIYAR Chamling hands over Padma Congress top brass visits Sikkim, kicks Vibhushan to LD Kazi off national panchayati raj plan AICC chairman of the panchayati ganised by the party between June a NOW REPORT raj department. 16 to July 15, it is learnt. A Kranti Mr. Aiyar stated that the Jyot Yatra is also planned from GANGTOK: Sikkim Pradesh Con- panchayat elections held all over August 9 to 15 later this year. gress Committee (I) [SPCC] was the country, specially in West Ben- The thrust will be on grassroots sent into a flurry of activity last week gal, have been far from fair since and developmental programmes, with the visit of party high-com- they have been held under the ae- Maj. Prakash told NOW! He is also mand top-guns to the state. The visit gis of the State election commis- on the panel for programme imple- by AICC bigwigs also harked a sions. Talking to partymen in the mentation for north India. change of guard for Sikkim with State, he assured that should Con- For the SPCC [I], which has Cong [I] secretary, Maj. Ved gress come to power in the Centre, been plagued by intra-party bick- Prakash taking over as the AICC in it would hand over the management ering of late, it is also time to set From one Cm to another: charge of Sikkim and Meghalaya of the panchayati elections to the things in motion for the upcoming Chamling hands over the Padma from party general secretary, Mani Central Election Commission. 2004 general elections. Maj. Vibhushan citation to LD Kazi Shanker Aiyar. The new incumbent The new Cong [I] in-charge Prakash disclosed that he plans to a NOW REPORT country’s second highest civilian and the departing Cong [I] MP, were for Sikkim told NOW! that the par- first get the organisational struc- award. He thanked the Government both in Sikkim and kicked off their ty’s last meeting at the Ramlila ture in the state working and then GANGTOK: Chief Minister of India for the honour bestowed party’s plans and policies for the grounds in Delhi had set the pace plan the campaign trail. Pawan Chamling called on the first upon him and endorsed “full faith” state on June 1 with a panchayati for the Congress [I]’s new agenda Pointing out that Cong [I] was chief minister of Sikkim, Kazi in the leadership of Mr. Chamling, raj convention at Singtam, east Sik- - focusing on the NDA govern- in power in 15 states across the Lhendup Dorjee Khangserpa at his who, he said, had “restored democ- kim. All block units, district units ment’s alleged “non-governance” country, he suggested that the next residence in Kalimpong on May 27 racy in the true sense in the State.” and the central executive members and penchant for retaining “scam- government in Sikkim could well to hand over the Padma Vibhushan While congratulating Mr. Kazi on of SPCC [I] attended the meet. The tainted” leaders. be formed by his party awarded to the 99 year old former the award, Mr. Chamling said that it main agenda for the meet was to The congressmen have begun “I see every possibility of a CM by the President on January. was through his efforts and devotion release the 16-point action plan of with a focus on the block and dis- congress government in Sikkim The 99 year old stalwart of the that democracy arrived to Sikkim. Cong [I] on panchayati raj. trict level organisations aimed at too,” he said. “The Congress presi- democratic movement in Sikkim, Kazi Lhendup Dorjee While Maj. Prakash arrived in “awakening” the farmers, youth, dent Sonia Gandhi is concerned Mr. Khangserpa, while speaking to Khangserpa was born in Pakyong, Sikkim three days ahead of the dalit, backward classes and women. about situation in Sikkim and I am Mr. Chamling and his entourage East Sikkim in 1904. An initiated convention, Mr. Aiyar flew down At the state-level, after the deputed for the task of over- see- which included his Political Advi- monk, he entered politics way back to Bagdogra and then drove to panchayati raj convention, district ing activities here. All issues will sor, BB Gooroong, expressed his in 1949 and took charge as Sik- Singtam to hold the panchayati raj level conventions in the form of be dealt once the organisational “honour and pride” on receiving the kim’s first Chief Minister in 1974. convention. Mr. Aiyar is also the 2-day training sessions will be or- structure gets working,” he added. CARPET FREE WITH EVERY PURCHASE ABOVE RS. 10,000/- Special Price Samsung Washing Machine just for Rs. 6990/- & Rs. 11,990/-

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4 June 04-10, 2003; NOW! 5 POWERPOWER PLAYPLAY UTTAR SE PURAB TAK DIRECT ADMISSION IN BANGALORE, DELHI FROM YOUR HOME TOWN C.B.S.E and I.S.C (ARTS COMMERCE, PCM & PCB ) XII and GRADUATE PASSED STUDENTS AVAIL DIRECT ADMISSION FROM GANGTOK IN Uttaranchal MBBS, BDS, BSc (in Computer Science, Bio-Tech, Micro Bio, Genetics) Busi- ness Management, MCA, MBA, Hotel Management, BSc in Nursing, LLB Congressmen return Engineering (All Streams) under Management Quota. l LOWEST CAPITATION FEES IN MBBS, BDS and BPT l NO DONATION IN ENGINEERING, MCA & MCA impressed l FOR BIO-TECH / BIO-CHEM ONLY 20 THOUSAND MAINTENANCE FEES Apart from touring the State, a NOW REPORT the two also met the Agriculture REASONS WHY ALREADY 15-20 STUDENTS HAVE BEEN REGISTERED Minister GM Gurung. The two l GANGTOK: The Congress gov- counterparts agreed to share hill YOU CAN RESERVE YOUR SEAT FROM YOUR HOME TOWN ernment in Uttaranchal has passed agriculture research and assist l YOU WILL RECIEVE SPECIAL GUIDANCE THROUGHOUT THE SESSION AS a resolution seeking to declare all each other in various other spheres WE HAVE OFFICES THERE IN BANGALORE AND DELHI “Gorkhalis” as OBC in the coun- in the agri sector. l WE WILL STAY AT GANGTOK PERMANENTLY, SO NO QUESTION OF BOUBT try. This, the Sikkim Pradesh Con- Praising the State Govern- gress Committee [I] members ment’s policies like going “totally SOME OF OUR SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES ARE ALREADY REGISTERED learnt from the Congress leaders organic” state and launching of from Uttaranchal who were re- new schemes like off-season veg- l MANISH VERMA - IN TELECOM - HINDUSTHAN COLLEGE (DELHI) cently in the State on the SPCC etable cultivation, the Minister [I]’s invitation to attend the said he will try to implement simi- l RAJIV SHARMA - IN TELECOM - HINDUSTHAN COLLEGE (DELHI) panchayati raj convention held at lar policies when he returned to l Singtam on June 1, Sunday. Uttaranchal. GAGAN SUBBA - IN TELECOM - OXFORD ENGG. COLLEGE (B’LORE) Visiting the State were the The visiting hill leaders along l PRANITA BASNETT - IN LLB - M. S. RAMAIAH COLLEGE (B’LORE) Agriculture Minister of with the newly inducted AICC in- Uttaranchal, Mahendra Singh charge of Sikkim, Maj. Ved Mehra and the General Secretary Prakash addressed media persons SO WHY ARE YOU WAITING of the Uttaranchal Pradesh con- in a joint interactive session on gress, Virendra Singh Bisht. Sunday. JOB VACANCY Sales Executives are required for sale of vehi- cles. Preference will be given to Graduates. At- Contact Admission Coordinator - Mrs. Dey (wife of Dey Sir) Tibet Road, Gangtok (Opp. Election Office) tractive salary and incentives on achievement. Tele - 226510 (Res.) OR 94341-53355 (Mob.) Contact Entel Motors personally with application OR PRADIP KUMAR, Rumtek. Ph: 252225 Head Office: MG Road, Bangalore Tele: 09844056308 ENTEL MOTORS Corporate Office: Hotel Ganga Sagar, AjmalKhan Road, 6TH MILE, TADONG. PH: 231828, 232341, 232059 Karol Bagh, New Delhi - 25752119 (Off) / 5742649 / 50/ 51 STATE POLLUTION CONTROL BOARD - SIKKIM Committed to a clean environment Let us keep Sikkim free from pollution. Let our children inherit a pollution free Sikkim Implementation of Acts & Rules Projects Completed The Board is working i) Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 01. Establishment of Pollution Awareness and - to control and abatement of water, air, noise ii) Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Cess assistance center and soil pollution from industrial sources Act, 1977 02. Study of the Hot Water Springs of Sikkim iii) Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 - to control and restrict in use of air horn, play- iv) The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 03. Study of water quality of 3 revered lakes of East ing of loud speakers and bursting of fire crack- v) Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Sikkim ers Rules, 1989 04. Environment Assessment of Urban Settlement vi) Manufacture, Storage and Import of Hazardous - to protect the water bodies 05. Assessment of Pollution and formulation of action Chemicals Rules, 1989 plan - to monitor the water quality, air quality and vii) Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991 noise level at major areas in the State viii) Bio-Medical Waste (Management & Handling) 06. Establishment of 2 nos of Ambient Air Quality Rules, 1998 Stations at Gangtok - to encourage, conduct and participate in re- ix) The Recycled Plastics Manufacture & Usage 07. Establishment of new Water Quality Monitoring search activities on environmental issues and Rules, 1999 Stations under National Water Quality Monitoring disseminate the information available with the x) Environment (Protection) (Second Amendment) Programme Board Rules, 1999 regarding standard of fire works. xi) Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 08. Implementation of Acts and Rules other than Water - to promote environmental awareness through 2000 and Air Acts print and electronic media and through pub- xii) The Municipal Solid Wastes (Management & 09. Setting up of National Green Corps (400 Schools lic partnership programmes. Handling) Rules, 2000. as Green Army)

Our efforts depend on your support and active participation. Come, let us protect our environment together and make our small Sikkim a heaven on earth - State Pollution Control Board , Sikkim - Deptt. of Forests, Env. & Wildlife, Govt. of Sikkim, Deorali, Gangtok - 737102. Phone: 281877, 281913

5 6; NOW! June 04-10, 2003 FOCUSFOCUS Asbestos- A Killer on the Loose June 5 is World Environment Day. And since et me introduce you to an environment within is not streamlined and is not undertaken in environment includes not just the surroundings, but the environment of Gangtok. Indira Bye-Pass, a proper manner. One of the main reasons Lsome prefer calling it the Garage Para of Gangtok, is lack of adequately trained physicians. This also its inhabitants [see box for various aspects of home to some of the best untrained, professional, under- also hampers the correct diagnosis of asbes- “environment” as defined by the Environment aged and over-aged mechanics and welders in town. Nu- tos related diseases specially the mesothe- merous sooted and greased faces sweat out every day in lioma. Every attack of Tuberculosis or any Protection Act, 1986], KARCHOONG DIYALI features the this stretch teeming with garages. other lung-related ailment in a mechanic exposed conditions under which garage hands work Subsections (d) and (e) of the EPA, 1986 [see box] could have been triggered by exposure to with potentially hazardous materials everyday in - Handling of hazardous substance - is a daily affair asbestos, but we shall never know for sure. there and I am not even talking about the environment Another such worker, Mohammad Gangtok. What makes matters worse is that they don’t pollutants (b) which find their way regularly into the Marguf, all of 14 years, works as a two even know the risks involved... jhora alongside. wheeler mechanic. Although he has still not One hazardous substance that is handled in developed the trademark complaints of abundance is asbestos. breathlessness suffered by mechanics, that Brake linings and clutches are primarily made of still does not rule out some alarming facts. asbestos. Mining of asbestos has been banned in India, According to the Factories Act, 1948, a child but despite efforts by various national and international below 14 years of age is not allowed to work environmental and health agencies, India is still used in any factory. An adolescent between 15 as a dumping ground for asbestos imported from and 18 years can be employed in a factory countries like Canada and Russia. only if he obtains a certificate of fitness from Inhalation of a carcinogenic substance known as asbestos an authorized medical doctor. A child be- results in a hazardous occupational lung disease known as tween 14 and 18 years of age cannot be made Asbestosis. Asbestosis is a diffused interstitial fibrosing disease to work for more than four and a half hours of the lung which is directly related to the intensity and duration per day. Tell Mohammad about his rights of exposure to asbestos. Asbestos enters the body by inhalation and he giggles. He thinks its a joke, reality and fine dust may be deposited in the alveoli. The fibres are for him is much different. insoluble. The dust deposited in the lungs causes pulmonary The two mechanics quoted above offer fibrosis leading to respiratory insufficiency and eventually death only a sampling of the conditions they work by cancer of bronchus, mesothelioma of the pleura or in. When asked whether they knew of other peritoneum, cancer of the gastrointestinal tract. The risk of mechanics with lung disorders, they mention bronchial carcinoma is reported to be high if occupational two of their colleagues who had died last year exposure to asbestos is combined with cigarette smoking. of TB. Was it asbestos intake which caused Exposure of over six months to asbestos is risky as this could it? We might never know, but one look at how result in cancer even after a gap of twenty years. they expose themselves to this element makes (source: Indian Medical Journal) the entire policing of hazardous substances Now, analyse this... suspect. They handle the material with bare Zafar Alam, 32, is a motor mechanic working at a garage hands and inhale all the asbestos particles that at the Bye Pass who has been engaged in his profession for fly off as they grate it. the last 10 years. Talking to NOW!, Zafar admitted that Introduction of measures of prevention SOME DEFINITIONS ACCORDING TO THE ENVIRONMENT every time he gets down to clean a brake lining, he of asbestosis dust such as wet process, (PROTECTION) ACT 1986: experiences breathlessness accompanied by cough. enclosed apparatus, exhaust ventilation etc. Old brake linings are rubbed with sandpaper to seem remote while efforts from NGOs, law (a) “environment” includes water, air and land and the inter- increase the frictional ability of the asbestos. Nobody, enforcing authorities and the owners of the relationship which exists among and between water, air and land, including Zafar, knows whether he will be a cancer factories seem equally distant too. Personal and human beings, other living creatures, plants, micro-organism patient in the years to come but at present no mechanic protective equipments such as goggles, and property; is provided with safety provisions required while gloves, masks or respirators with (b) “environmental pollutant” means any solid, liquid or gaseous handling such substances and very few even remember mechanical filters with oxygen or air supply substance present in such concentration as may be, or tend to be, any official from departments which overlook the sound good only when read in journals and injurious to environment; working conditions and safety measures in the state ever are a practical impossibility. (c) “environmental pollution” means the presence in the environment of any environmental pollutant; visiting their workplace. “They come to check the This is not an attempt to accuse the (d) “handling”, in relation to any substance, means the manufacture, licence of the garage though,” offers another garage- concerned authority’s lapses but just a wake processing, treatment, package, storage, transportation, use, help, his hands busy renewing an old brake shoe. up call to everyone. With organisations like collection, destruction, conversion, offering for sale, transfer or the Few studies of asbestos-exposed victims have been Ban Asbestos Network of India (BANI) and like of such substance; undertaken and there is no registry for Asbestosis, not International Labour Organisation (e) “hazardous substance” means any substance or preparation only in Sikkim, but in India. Lack of such data makes spearheading campaigns to get asbestos which, by reason of its chemical or physico-chemical properties or things difficult for those fighting the disinformation cam- banned all over the country, smaller efforts in handling, is liable to cause harm to human beings, other living paign of the asbestos lobby. The enforcement depart- the household and community level to educate creatures, plant, micro-organism, property or the environment; ments, including those of labour and mines, lack the ex- and introduce precautionary measures against (f) “occupier”, in relation to any factory or premises, means a person pertise to measure airborne concentration of asbestos ac- the menace will help the cause. who has, control over the affairs of the factory or the premises and curately. Besides, those in the industry are close to policy Here’s wishing the entire State a includes in relation to any substance, the person in possession of makers, which further makes the task that much tougher Healthy World Environment Day, and if it’s the substance; for those working towards achieving a ban on asbestos. not too much to ask, a healthier (g) “prescribed” means prescribed by rules made under this Act. The medical surveillance of asbestos exposed workers environment tomorrow.

SIKKIM GRAHAMITE ASSOCIATION Water Resources Development Sikkim Grahamite Association is a registered organisation formed by alumnis of Dr. Graham’s Homes School, based in the State of Sikkim. Water resources management propagated and tree and food crop The Association formed in 1998, has all along made efforts, to foster Contd from pg 2 in a mountain-state like ours de- species/ varieties with high water feeling of fraternity and good well amongst the Grahamite OGBS, as well ferent agencies, unfortunately there mands an integrated approach. use efficiency chosen. as assist the school in all manner possible. is no link conservation and utiliza- Considering the decennial However, the success of all these The association in it’s meeting held on 25th April 2003 has passed the following resolution: a). Members can opt for life membership by paying one time membership fee of Rs. 1000/- tion of the resources. A clear link population growth of Sikkim it has programmes depend mainly on the b). The annual membership fee has been reduced to Rs. 100/- from existing Rs. 300/ and coordinated approach between become imperative for us to reclaim active involvement of farmers and the - from the current year. these two is an urgent need for de- these lands for productive purposes. conservation methods conceived by c). To make efforts to enrol new members by making appeals in local papers. tailed perspective plan to cover all Species which can help in reducing the local people and the traditional All those ex-Grahamites interested in joining our fraternity, may contact the under- the issues relating to conservation, water loss due to evapo-transpira- methods which still in vogue should signed to enrol as members. management and development of tion and augmenting recharge of be encouraged and when ever nec- Karma N. Bhutia, General Secretary, Sikkim Grahamite Association Phone Nos: 229439 (O) 223702 (R); e-mail : [email protected] water resources in Sikkim. ground water must be identified and essary scientifically corrected.

6 June 04-10, 2003; NOW! 7 RECAPRECAP SIKKIMSIKKIM COME AS A GUEST, GO BACK COMPLAINING

SARIKAH ATREYA speaks to family which had a disastrous were more than 200 vehicles there Sikkim visit. Their travails are more common than you and hardly any snow. It was such a let down,” said Guha. think and should perhaps prompt a rethink on local By 3 pm, the weather packed attitudes vis a vis the budget tourist... up and it started to rain. The group was quickly bundled in and driven summer getaway to Sik but we did not even stop there. In back to lower climes at a neck- kim was a long-cherished fact, the driver had just pointed the breaking speed. Adream of Anup Guha* and places out from the vehicle. We were The travel desk at the lodge his family of four. not even taken to Rumtek even told the family that if they wanted So, when the mercury shot high though it was part of the itinerary. to see snow and “some breathtak- in Kolkata, Guha, a clerk with a The driver told us that we would ing scenery,” they would have to government organisation in have to pay Rs. 250 extra if we go to Yumthang in North Sikkim, Kolkata, took the Darjeeling Mail wanted to go to Rumtek,” lamented an outing beyond their budget. last week, wife and two children in Guha while talking to NOW! “We decided to come to Sik- tow, and headed for Gangtok on a A complaint with the lodge’s kim and not Darjeeling since we Tourists returning from a “hill-station” wait out a five hour long traffic jam shoestring budget. Lugging eight manager proved futile. had heard so much about this place short of Singtam on May 23. a NOW! file foto huge bags stuffed with woolens, he Not the ones to give up easily, and how it was much better. But ally no point,” Guha lamented. The Guhas have left for fended off small-time brokers and the Guhas put behind the disap- we were disappointed. There “But we are happy that we saw Kolkata. Mrs. Guha bought “some checked into a small lodge in pointment and looked forward to seems to be no organised tourism the Kanchenjunga and made it to woollen clothes and jeans for the Arithang. At Rs. 350 per day, Guha the Tsomgo Lake and Baba here. The travel agents and the 12,000 feet. We would certainly like kids” and some knick-knacks for found the lodge with “no geysers, Mandir trip the following day. drivers quote exorbitant rates and to come back someday. Hopefully, the relatives. Guha is looking for- dirty bed sheets, paan-stained walls Little did they know that more we are at their mercy all the time. by that time, things would have im- ward to reimbursing his LTA and and no TV” a bit steep but consoled problems awaited them. There is no coordination with the proved here to cater to the needs of is already planning the family’s himself and his family that the Sik- “We had no idea that going to government. Unless we come on budget tourists like us. After all, we next vacation. Maybe to the kim experience starting the next Tsomgo lake would be such a big a more lavish budget and with also add to the local economy.” The beaches of Digha this time. day would make up for it. hassle. The vehicle the hotel arranged more than a week to spare, its re- optimist in Guha refuses to die. *Names changed. Their ordeal, however, had for us was a share-cab, yet we had to only just begun. pay Rs. 850 for the four of us. We The next day, they arranged with were to leave at 9 in the morning but the “travel desk” at the lodge for the driver turned up only at 11:30. local sight-seeing. The Guhas were His excuse was that he had to wait booked for a 10-point trip. A taxi three hours for the permits.” picked them up at ten in the morn- Then, they were bundled up ing and took them to Hanuman Tok, into a Commander with six others Ganesh Tok, Tashi View Point, and taken to one of the most- Hurhurey Dara at Nam Nang and sought after destination in the Chorten monastery. In less than State. After a stomach-churning three hours, the family was brought two and a half hours uphill ride, back to the Motor Stand and told that the Guhas had to fight for elbow the sight seeing was over! room with “hundreds of other tour- “We were told that we would be ists at the Lake.” taken to ten spots but we were shown “We faced immense problems only five. When we asked the driver in Tsomgo. There were no toilet to take us to the other five spots, he facilities and the rarefied air, pol- told us that we had already visited luted with vehicular emission them. He mentioned some names, made breathing difficult. There Panchayats get more administrative muscle pursuance of the directives of the a NOW REPORT Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling, who said that the GPUs should be GANGTOK: In a bid to delegate “the point of convergence of de- more power to the panchayats, the centralized administration.” The State government has decided to State government has decided that hand over all government institu- the offices of the president of tions like primary schools, primary GPUs would be established with- health centres, Village Level Of- out any delay so as to empower Samsung 175 ltrs ficer, libraries, community infor- Panchayats to prepare, sanction, mation centres, rural tourism, mi- supervise and implement various Refrigerator just for nor irrigation works, etc., falling welfare schemes and projects for under a Gram Panchayat Unit their Units. [GPU], to the administrative con- The State government has also Rs. 8990/- trol of the presidents of GPU. decided that the Planning and Devel- This was decided in a meeting opment department would provide an held in the chamber of the Develop- amount of Rs. 10 lakhs to all the 166 ment Commissioner here on May 26. GPUs and Rs. 50 lakhs to the four However, the GPU president Zilla Panchayats in the State. will manage these institutions with Each subdivision in the State the help of government officials will also have a Sub-Divisional De- in-charge of these institutions who velopment Officer, who will assist will act as member secretaries of the GPU president. The GPU presi- their respective GPU committees. dent will also be provided with a This decision was taken in Rural Development Assistant. FOUND An original and attested Other Backward Caste certificate of one Binod Subba of Timberbong, West Sikkim. The document is with the NOW! Office and the person may come and collect it anyday.

15 8; NOW! June 04-10, 2003 FROM-THE-SPOTFROM-THE-SPOT Back from the Top of the World a NOW! THIS WAS THE TOUGHEST CLIMB EVER, SAYS NADRE EXCLUSIVE GANGTOK: Everest summitteers SHERPA ABOUT HIS MAY 21 EVEREST ASCENT might be getting felicitated all over the world and Darjeeling might a NOW! pic Khangchendzonga Parikrama expe- have gone overboard with its cel- dition of 1992 that he met the Di- ebration of a successful Everest rector of SGMI at Bakhim and took summit on a golden jubilee year, up the offer to teach in Gangtok. but the welcome for Everest heroes Although his latest climb was was rather low key in Sikkim. the most demanding, Nadre Nadre Sherpa and Phool Maya Sherpa admits that his most exhila- Tamang of Sonam Gyatso Institute rating expedition was the one to of Mountaineering, Gangtok, re- Mt. Negi Kangshang, the highest turned to the capital on June 3, peak in Arunachal Pradesh. “The Tuesday, to a small welcome func- view from the top of Negi tion at the institute. This despite the Kangshang was simply breathtak- fact that Nadre Sherpa actually ing. It is definitely my most memo- summitted Mt. Everest along with rable climb,” he said. his climbing partner from HMI, A prolific climber who has Kushang Dorjee, on May 21, the scaled almost all challenging peaks day Everest saw its fiercest weather in the Indian Himalaya, Nadre this climbing season. His colleague Sherpa, after his two successful as- Phool Maya Tamang, arguably the cents of Everest has no personal only woman mountaineer that Sik- ambitions left to achieve. “I will kim has, made it to Base Camp-V, Nadre Sherpa and Phool Maya Tamang at SGMI, Gangtok, on their return from Everest head for any expedition that my in- just another base-camp short of the An obviously travel-weary than a hundred climbers the day we had to even grapple with winds stitute directs me to,” he said instead. a final climb to the summit. Nadre Sherpa, while talking to summitted,” reveals Nadre Sherpa. blowing away the valve controls Surely, after he has rested on The SGMI instructors were part NOW! upon his return admitted Bivouacked at base camp-V, of the oxygen tanks they had with his latest laurels, the mountaineer of a 15-member HMI expedition to that his latest experience was the Nadre Sherpa and his climbing them. These valves, it might be in Nadre Sherpa will make him the Everest from the North col. Their toughest climb ever, even tougher partner bore the full brunt of Ev- mentioned here, are necessary seek out another peak to conquer. climb is special, not just for the fact than the 1996 Everest expedition erest winds as it tore away their when climbing at such high alti- His SGMI colleague and mem- that it coincided with the 50th anni- when he became the first Indian tents and blew away some of the tudes, not only to conserve the ber of the latest Everest expedition, versary of the Tenzing-Hillary suc- to summit Everest from the North oxygen cylinders they had brought scant supplies, but also regulate Phool Maya Tamang, however, has cessful expedition of 1953, but that Col - a feat for which was awarded along for the final push. The duo oxygen intake, too much of which more immediate plans. She has the expedition was one of only six with a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh by started their final climb on the can also prove fatal on Everest. been selected for an All India successful expeditions this season the State Government at the time. midnight of May 20 and bypassed Nadre Sherpa made the climb Women Expedition to Mount from a slew of 25 hoping to make it “It was the weather that made base camp VI where mountaineers even more challenging when he de- Argam Khangri in Ladakh next to the top. Only Nadre and Kushang climbing tougher. Winds screaming normally halt for rest. Marching cided against using Sherpas to lay month. She leaves on July 1, 2003. made it to the top from the group. at 90 km per hour forced back more onwards on sheer willpower, they the ropes beyond base camp V. He When asked to share her Ever- rigged his climbing aids himself, a est experience, she said it was “sim- rare practise among mountaineers, ply thrilling” and admitted that she who leave everything else apart was disappointed that foul weather from the actual walk to Sherpas. limited her ascent to base camp V. Talking about his induction into “I continue to nurse a desire to sum- mountaineering, a modest Nadre mit Everest one day,” she adds. Sherpa, who hails from Padamchen Our relationship goes beyond selling vehicles in east Sikkim, admitted that he was ADITYA CONSULTANCIES never interested in studies and quit FIRST TIME IN SILIGURI We care for your vehicles. after class VIII. 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16 June 04-10, 2003; NOW! 9 DESPATCHESDESPATCHES Robi-Babu, Tenzing Norgay’s friend, Anthyesthi to the community when work for Kriya his Nepali magazine “Saathi,” philosopher and guide published from Darjeeling took him to Sherpa homes frequently. Darjeeling again. Tenzing Norgay, declined the invitation. That is how he met Tenzing from AMITAVA BANERJEE was equally determined to be a Mitra’s contribution towards Norgay. Soon the bond grew. part of the expedition. HMI is also not known to many. “I even removed the British DARJEELING: While the spotlight “Tenzing sought my help and He is the one to have written to patent over the Sherpas,” claims of the world was focused on Tenzing I went and coaxed Lhamu to al- Late Dr. BC Roy, the then Bengal Mr. Mitra. Earlier, Sherpas could and Sir Hillary, Rabindranath Mitra low him to go even assuring her CM, requesting for an Institute for only be hired for expeditions watched from the sidelines. It brought that if anything happened to promotion of mountaineering and through the Himalayan Club. “It back fond memories. Tenzing I would support the fam- to keep Tenzing’s name alive. Dr. was as if Sherpas were patented to The 87-year-old Rabindranath ily,” Mr. Mitra told NOW! Roy in turn brought this to the the Himalayan Club. We broke this Mitra, has always preferred to stay He recounts the day when knowledge of Late Pandit and started our own Sherpa Climb- Our beloved daddy Shri Bedhnidhi out of limelight with the multitude news arrived that Tenzing and Jawaharlal Nehru and thus the ers Association,” he recounts. (Pokhrel Kancha) left for heavenly not knowing of his enormous con- Hillary had conquered Mt. Ever- Himalayan Mountaineering Insti- Hardly any new generation abode on Wednesday the 28th May tribution towards mountaineering est: “The news was suppressed tute was born in 1954. Sherpa has ever heard of 2003. Pokhrel family thanks all friends and upliftment of the Sherpa com- and the broadcast was done on the It was quite rare for a Bengali Rabindranath Mitra or of his contri- and well wishers for their presence & munity. Not many know, for ex- June 2, the day of the coronation Babu of those days to have such bution towards their community. He consolence in the last voyage. ample, that had not given the Tri- of Queen Elizabeth.” good relations with a simple now lives in an apartment at 2 Mile, Grieved Pokhrel Family colour to Tenzing Norgay, it would The delay notwithstanding said, Sherpas. Mr. Mitra became close Sevoke Road, Siliguri, with his wife. Menglee Namphok, S. Sikkim not have fluttered on the top of the it was celebration time and it was world on May 29, 1953 when Ev- providential that Mr. Mitra ran into erest was first summitted. Jana Kavi Dharmaraj Thapa. “Sit- “I saw Tenzing packing his ting at Dilkhush Cabin, the Kabi rucksack the day before he was composed the ever popular song on ORIENTAL BANK leaving for the Everest expedition Tenzing. He tuned it and we got hold in 1953. He was packing in the of Municipal Boy’s School students Nepal, British and the UN flags to sing the song to Tenzing’s family OF COMMERCE and I told him to take along the to commemorate the great victory,” Indian flag also. Since we could reminisces Mr. Mitra. ( A Government of India undertaking) not get hold of a small, triangular He also contributed the pas- flag, preferred by mountaineers we sage money for Tenzing’s wife and we proudly announce the OPENING gave him a 2ft by 3 ft flag,” re- daughters, Pempem and Nima, to calls Mr. Mitra. meet their father at Kathmandu on of our branch at Called “Robi-Babu” by his return from Everest. Tenzing Tenzing Norgay, Mr. Mitra went never forgot his friend, philoso- Paljor Stadium Road, on become a friend, philosopher pher and guide. It was the begin- and guide of him. ning of a long journey of camara- Opposite of SNT Bus Stand, Recollecting the months pre- derie. Mr. Mitra recollects in 1954, ceding the 1953 John Hunt expe- when Tenzing was invited by Ex- Gangtok, Sikkim dition, Mr. Mitra reveals that plorers Club of New York, he Tenzing was not keeping in good wanted to take Mr. Mitra along and on 12.06.2003 at 9 AM health and his wife, Ang Lhamu, when the Club was hesitant to bear was adamant that he did not leave the added expenses, Tenzing curtly to be inaugurated by The Executive Director of the Bank TUITIONS AVAILABLE Mr. V. K. Chopra FOR MATHS & PHYSICS ‘ All are cordially invited ’ FOR CLASS IX, X, XI & XII PHONES: J. P. DUA R. KHAN Deputy General Manager 281039 / 221587 Manager Eastern Region, Kolkata UNBELIEVABLE!!! COMPAQ PRESARIO S3010IL AT Rs. 31,990/- (all inclusive)
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17 10; NOW! June 04-10, 2003 ECOSS DEVELOPMENTDEVELOPMENT COMPLETES 3 HECTIC AND MOBILE CONVERSATIONS NOW FRUITFUL YEARS POSSIBLE UP NORTH a NOW REPORT mobile service will now ensure He commended the efforts put GANGTOK: The 3rd Annual Gen- that the district stays well con- in by the officials and staff of the eral Meeting of the Eco-tourism and nected with at least Gangtok.” Telecom department in upgrading Conservation Society of Sikkim Mr. Lachungpa said that it was and maintaining telecom services (ECOSS) was held here on May 24. due to the persistent efforts of the in such difficult terrain. ECOSS has been promoting district and the telecom officials that The Minister however insisted the concept of ecotourism through mobile services have finally reached that the services provided be sustainable development in the the remote corners of the State. “good” and not plagued by fre- State as well as the entire “Mangan is not only the large quent disruptions. He also asked Himalayan region for the past three cardamom capital of the world, it the department to issue SIM cards years. Its main objectives is to work is also the gateway to North Sik- soon to the new subscribers. towards developing and promoting kim. Mobile connectivity will Mr. Lachungpa made the in- Sikkim as an ecotourism destina- mean that farmers can find out the augural call to the Chief General tion and to ensure that ecotourism latest market rates for cardamom Manager, BSNL at New Delhi. has positive and beneficial linkages right from their fields,” he later Speaking to the CGM, Mr. for the marginalised mountain com- said, addressing a function held at Lachungpa expressed hope that munities through the forging of ties the district administration office. BSNL would provide quality serv- with other national and interna- He further suggested that the ice in the District. He also asked tional ecotourism and conservation mobile network should be ex- the BSNL chief to provide more organisations. were started a month back, BSNL tended to cover Lachen, Lachung, connections to the district. by SARIKAH ATREYA PD Rai, Chairman, ECOSS, formally launched its mobile serv- Chungthang and Yumthang, which said that the organisation has been MANGAN: The North District has ices for the North District here on are still not fully connected by The BSNL mobile services working hard to build both partner- now come under the mobile telecom 29 May. Area MLA and Power land-line telephones. would cover Mangan and its sur- ships and relationships with differ- network. The launch of BSNL mo- Minister, Hissey Lachungpa, who “The large number of tourist rounding areas, Hee-Gnathang and ent organisations within the govern- bile services is being seen here as a launched the service, said: “The who come to these remote places parts of Dzongu in the initial phase. ment and outside in order to find a major step towards bringing together North District has the most diffi- would greatly benefit from the The General Manager, BSNL Sik- “greater synergy” in its operations. the otherwise inaccessible and far- cult and inaccessible terrain in the mobile services. This way, the lo- kim, telecom officials, the District He said that ECOSS was born flung villages of the district. State. Telecommunication has cal economy will also benefit,” he Collector, North, and officials from out of the need for greater Although mobile services made life much easier for us. The said. the District Administration were ecotourism products in the State. present on the occasion. “We felt that we had to have a model for tourism development in the State that was different from Sikkim’s performance at CBSE falls, scholarships improve that of Darjeeling, since we were better than the class X students with cent. Science students with a total Com. and B.Ed and from Rs. a relatively new entrant in the sec- a NOW REPORT a pass percentage of 74 per cent. pass average of 52 per cent fell be- 1,000 to Rs. 2,500 per month for tor,” he explained. A total of 3,992 students ap- low last year’s 57 per cent mark. M. Phil and Ph.d.. “The year 2002-03 has been GANGTOK: On May 31, the peared for the class X exams, of In another development, the The Cabinet has also de- one of trying to carve a niche for CBSE results finally reached the which only 1,678 managed to get State cabinet, on Saturday, ap- cided to enhance merit scholar- ourselves in the development sec- Education Department and the re- through. In class XII, 1,891, of the proved a “raise” in scholarships ships for students scoring more tor. Much effort has been put in sults this year have been only mar- 2,579 students who had taken the for merit holders. The hike of than 70 per cent in the class XII gathering the momentum of sub- ginally different from last year. exam, passed. over hundred per cent has been exams. This has been raised stantive work that has propelled The “official” results declare that The vocational stream contin- specifically targeted for post- from Rs. 800 to Rs. 1,200 plus our activities forward. We have only 42 per cent managed to get ued to get excellent results and did graduation courses. reimbursements. However those completed a series of projects both through in the class X exams, three a repeat of last year’s “cent-per- Scholarships have been en- who scored below 70 per cent local and global and more are in points lower than last year’s pass cent” pass percentage. The Humani- hanced from Rs. 800 per month per cent but still managed to get the pipeline,” Mr. Rai added. average of 45 per cent. ties stream came second with 79 per to Rs. 2,000 for those pursuing honours courses in colleges can In retrospect, ECOSS feels that The class XII students from the cent qualifying for college admis- higher education in Mathemat- also avail the scholarship, the time has come to rethink its views CBSE’s All India Senior Secondary sions with Commerce students fol- ics, Physics, Chemistry, English, Minister Education, RB Subba on the threats on the fragile envi- Education (AISSE) have fared much lowing close behind with 73 per Economics, Statistics, M.Ed., M. assured while talking to NOW! ronment and sustainability in the changing global scenario, and the threats posed by man’s own actions. “We are committed to ensure that ECOSS stays around to make more powerful noises to stop wanton de- struction of our forests and natural capital and ensure that the locals are part of the processes that make up the tourism industry,” Mr. Rai said. If you spend a The executive secretary, perfectly useless Renzino Lepcha, in his annual re- port on the activities of ECOSS, fresh everyday afternoon in a said that the year 2002-03 has been “hectic and fruitful” with more perfectly useless than 20 projects undertaken. The PRESENTS manner, you have year began with the International Year of Mountains conference in learned how Yuksam in West Sikkim in April to live. 2002, in association with the World Mountain People Associa- SLICEof Lin Yutang tion. Besides, ECOSS has been providing consultancy services to various foreign delegates and or- This week, try out the different lures of Mango, ganisations from AUSAid, UNDP, LIFE the king of fruits at our Mango Festival Nepal, Bhutan and Vietnam and to various organisations from Kalimpong and Nagaland.

18 June 04-10, 2003; NOW! 11 BUSINESSBUSINESS Citizen’s Bank out to woo Traders APPOINTMENTS a NOW REPORT the age of 10 years. “No bank has Identity cards would be issued to Let’s Grow Together . . . ever launched this scheme in Sik- these bank employees in order to ENVISION (P) LTD. is an information technology company with a avoid impersonation. “While with- GANGTOK: The Citizen’s Urban kim. Starting with Rs20 you can broad portfolio of services, technologies and third party alliances Cooperative bank held a meeting go up to any level and anybody can drawing money interest would not needed to deliver the benefits of information technology. with the members of the Lal Ba- withdraw their money anytime or be charged, however, some serv- Envision’s multifaceted activities includes Hardware services, zar Traders’ Association at the Lal take small loans against the ice charges would be deducted,” Networking, Software services & Engineering services, System added the MD. Bazar shopping complex on May amount deposited,” said NR De. Integration, Software Product Development and Management 29. N R De, the Managing Direc- He further added that under The MD further stated that their Consulting. tor of the Cooperative bank in- this scheme customers are not re- bank is specially meant to serve the Envision focuses on enhanced relationship with existing customers formed the gathering about the quired to visit the bank for mak- lower and middle-income groups. and addition of new customer by continued investment in The bank also offers additional in- Sikkim Janata Deposit Scheme or ing the deposits. The bank employ- technology, facilities and people. the Daily Collection scheme which ees themselves would collect the terest at 0.5% on fixed deposits to All its deliberations and decisions are consistent with the Core can be opened by anyone above deposits from their doorsteps. senior citizens and women custom- ers. Mr YT Namchu,Marketing Purpose and Core Values of the organisation. Executive of this bank further told CORE PURPOSE Digital Copiers ready NOW! that nine members of the Lal Leveraging information, knowledge and Technology to enhance human Bazar Traders’ Association opened endeavour. up a account for this daily collec- CORE VALUES to copy tion scheme. Belief in people, Entrepreneurship, Customer orientation, Pursuit of excellence. a NOW REPORT and 27 at Kandoi Building here. We are offering challenging opportunity where professional & Personal While talking to NOW! Prithvish growth go hand-in-hand . GANGTOK: Gestener (India) Ltd. Bose General Manager East, said that Professional Benefits. · Competitive Salary. in association with Kiran Electro because of Sikkim being a quality CALL · Professional development reimbursement. Copiers, Gangtok organised a Road concerned market, that the Gestener · Performance bonus program. show specially for the ‘jobber’ seg- Company was here to provide all that Personal Benefits ment at MG Marg for its Digital Sikkimese need. He also mentioned NOW! · Medical, Dental facilities. Copiers and Multifunction Devices that Gestener (India) Ltd was a sub- · Sponsorship for advance training & Education including Colour copiers on May 26 sidiary of NRG Group, London and AT part of the 14 Billion dollar RICOH Welcome and join us with the inspiration that we go on conceiving, group of companies, and that they set believing & achieving. Kutse Shegu up their Indian operations in 1924. 270949 MARKETING MANAGER The 49th Day Kutse Shegu of Late Gestener has major plans for the state e-mail: Responsibility : As a Marketing Manager you are responsible for Product Mrs. Phigoo Bhutia who left for her of Sikkim and as part of its efforts Management of Servers, PC’s, Laptops, Mid-Range Systems, Power equipment heavenly abode on 28 April 2003 has tied up with M/S Kiran Electro sikkimnow and Peripherals. You will be prime interface with our Principals and will have to falls on 16 June 2003. copiers to strengthen its marketing @rediffmail.com develop business plans and implement them. You will provide marketing support All friends, relatives and well and service set up in the state. to the field including pricing & special bids. You would be running marketing wishers are requested to join us campaign to generate a continuous stream of leads. in offering prayers for the departed BUILDINGS & HOUSING DEPARTMENT Required Skills : Sound Marketing Knowledge of IT Product is essential. Prior soul at our residence at Old Chil- Government of Sikkim product management experience will be added advantage. You should be a dren’s Park, Gtk. We would also Tender Notice No: 1/CE/4(29B/2001-02) Graduate. You should be below 25- Years of age. like to thank all those who ex- Scheme: Construction of Sub Divisional Office cum SYSTEM / SUPPORT ENGINEER tended their help during our hour Residential Complex at Rongli - East Sikkim at Rs. 200 Lakhs Responsibility : You are responsible for providing pre-sale support in area like of bereavement. demonstration, bench-marking , prototyping etc. , also post sale support to Sonam Phintso (son) CORRIGENDUM: clients in area like operating system, database, system migration, software Tashi Doma (daughter) 1. Please read the cost of tender documents as Rs. updates/Upgraded etc. As a support engineer you will be responsible for nephews, nieces & 20,000/- per tender documents against Rs.10,000/- per installing and commissioning of network/system , troubleshooting and diagnostic, grand children. document, published earlier. breakdown maintenance support, call support & performance tuning. 2. The BR for the same should be drawn in favour of Required Skills : You should have 1-2 years hands-on experience in installing Accounts Officer, Building & Housing Department under and supporting different operating system and application software. You should have IT industry experience in installing, commissioning of LANs. You should Revenue Head 1159-80-800-11 be B.E, B.Tech. or Diploma holder from recognised Polytechnic (preferably in Lochog Kiran Rasaily computer, Electronics & communication OR electrical) or graduate and diploma Chief Engineer in related field for good institute. Good presentation skill essential. You should The first anniversary “Lochog” of late Release Order No: 27/IPR/03-04 Dt: 31.05.03 Building & House Department be below 25- Years of age. Venerable Chemed Rindzing *Fresh graduates and Diploma Holders (Polytechnics) with confidence in system Rinpoche, (Prof. C. R. Lama) falls on maintenance can also apply. 4 June 2003 and will be held at Khordang Gumpa, Dhansara VIllage, PUBLIC RELATION / LOGISTIC MANAGER near Ranidanga, SSB Camp, SIliguri. Responsibility : You are responsible for Client/Customer relationship and He was the traditional holder of person management. Business partner relation & Logistic management. Khordong lineage of Changder order required Required Skill : You should be female graduate with knowledge of customer (Tradition of the Northern Treasures). relation management, supply chain management, Business intelligence, He was also the direct reincarnation a TEAM LEADER for a fast growing company to excellent communication and relation building skill are prerequisite. You should of venerable Nuden Dorjee and ven- be below 25- Years of age. erable Kalden Lingpa respectively. head it’s team and handle it’s projects. ACCOUNTS OFFICER : He served as the Head of the Depart-
A fun and congenial working environment with op- Responsibility : You are responsible for Maintaining Company Accounts, Bank ment for Indo-Tibetan Studies at the Transaction and Bookkeeping function. Vishva Bharati University at portunities for growth.
Required Skill : You should be Commerce graduate with sound knowledge of Shantiniketan in West Bengal, for Age, Sex and educational qualification no bar. Company Account and in-house Bookkeeping Function. Should have good many years.
Experience not essential. knowledge of Accounts keeping and Inventory Management in Application TALLY All devotees and well wishers are
Fluency in English is a must. , updated knowledge in latest version preferred. requested to join us in offering *Part-timer can also apply. prayers to the departed soul, on the Interested Candidates above date and venue. can walk-in for interview on FRIDAY and SATURDAY, TRAINEE SUPPORT ASSISTANCE Mrs. Sangay Doma (wife) June 6, 2003 & June 7, 2003 Responsibility : To assist System/Support Engineer in field and in-house jobs. D.M.R. Lama & Ugen C. Lama between 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM at Required Skills : You should be 10+2 pass or gradate with computer (sons) Mrs. Norzin Lhamu background & jest to learn & +ve attitude. You should be below 20- Years of Lama & Mrs. Nise Lhamu age. Lama (Daughters) RSVP: Midas Touch Inc. For immediate consideration, Please e-mail you resume to Gumpa - 95353 - 2585860 White Hall Complex, Below Sports Department [email protected] Residence - 95353 - 2581358 For details Call: 225521 & 94340-20677 stating position applied to as subject. Mobile - 98320 - 49416

19 12; NOW! June 04-10, 2003 RECAPRECAP SIKKIMSIKKIM BAICHUNG DRIBBLES BACK INTO EAST BENGAL “It feels good to be back”, Bhowmick was one of the main rea- guidance.” age. It ws important for Biachung foremost in his mind. Baichung said, while sons apart from the support he has Also tilting the balance to sign with a club which would What of the injuries that he’s speaking to NOW! from always received from the fans and in East Bengal’s favour help him attain his best.” been plagued with all of last year? members of the club even when was Baichung’s insist- Although signed with East “I took a long break and am Kolkata, just ahead of his he played for rivals Mohun ence on seeking bigger Bengal, the option of joining a fully recovered now,” he said. signing with old club East Bagan in the last season. challenges. His skills European club remains open. In Mr. Bhutia, who kept a close Bengal for the upcoming Welcoming the decision, have already outgrown fact, one of teh clauses in watch on Baichung’s fitness regi- season. Karma P. Bhutia, a senior domestic football and Baichung’s latest contract with East men during his sojourn in Gangtok government officer and men- East Bengal’s ambitious Bengal specifies that he be released adds: “Baichung has been training t’s a homecoming of sorts for tor to Baichung said: plans to make a good should a European club call him up hard for trials in Europe. Although Bhaichung who launched his “Mohun Bagan is in an ad- showing at international for trials. This could happen some- his endurance level might be only Ifootballing career with the red- ministrative mess. Team re- tourneys convinced time in August-September. 70 per cent by European standrds gold jersey of East Bengal. Com- lation in the club is also not Baichung that his old club About the reasons why he at present, he is more than fit for pleting all paperwork on Tuesday up to the mark. I advised was the one to be in. turned down the offer from Sin- the domestic circuit. A few good June 3, Baichung ended months of Baichung to look for an- Mr. Bhutia, supports this gapore’s Wellington Woodlands matches and he will be gunning speculation over which club he other club. I think he has line of argument and says, “east soccer club, Baichung admitted on all cylinders.” would finally join. taken a good decision. Bengal seems to have the right at- frankly that the money they offered That’s reassuring. It has been Asked why he chose to return Subhash Bhowmick is titude to match Baichung’s aspira- did not excite him. a long time since the Tinkitam Ex- to East Bengal, Baichung said that an excellent coach and tions. He is 27 at present and strik- At the moment, however it is press grabbed the sporting head- the presence of coach Subhash Baichung will benefit from his ers peak between 28 to 30 years of the ASEAN tournament which is lines with his antic on the field. Sub Juniors bring back medals The Debut a NOW REPORT The coach lauded the initia- tives taken by the chief minister GANGTOK: The 13 member to extend the Dojang at the gym- contingent from Sikkim have re- nasium hall for coaching the turned home after participating at taekwondo trainees. SATA has TICKET the 21st Sub Junior National also appreciated its gratefulness to Rs. 50 TaeKwondo Championships held Mr VB Pathak, Secretary Sports in Kanteerva indoor stadium, and youth affairs for his coopera- Bangalore between May 23 and tion towards the renovation of the 25. hall. The contingent have returned He also said that the members with four medals for the State. of SATA were grateful to Mr Sabita Sundas (pic alongside) Shanti Kumar of Sports Authority of Mt. Deepam School and Biren est and least populated state to pro- of India (SAI) Namchi for provid- Pradhan of T.N.S.S.School duce two national champions”, he ing mats, which made a big ‘dif- anarchy brought honours for Sikkim bag- added. ference’ during practice sessions. ging a gold medal each in their respective categories thus becom- OWN A FLAT BY INVESTING JUST Rising From The Apple Cart ing the new Sub Junior National Champions. Birju Pradhan also of Rs. 41.000/- Tickets Availabe At: Mt. Deepam School and Pritam Quick Bite, Hot Stuff, Bansal Thapa of Sichey government Located beautifully amongst the lush green surroundings of Store (Devp. Area) & Good school bagged silver and bronze Siliguri City with Books Tadong. medals respectively in other cat-
Children Park
Community Hall
Driveway sound: egories.
Street Lights
Departmental Store Radio Corner Chief Coach cum instructor at SWASTIK APARTMENT lights: Sikkim Amateur Taekwondo As- Salugara Bazar, Sevoke Road, Siliguri. Modern Laser Lights sociation, Tirlok Subba told Now! Head Office: SWASTIK BUILDERS that they had expected three gold 1st Floor, Hotel Vinayak Building, Hill Cart Road 14 JUNE 2003 medals for Sikkim after the ardu- Siliguri. Ph: 2520870 (O) / 2642450 (R) / 98320 64114 (M) VENUE: SANGRAM HALL ous training sessions. “ It is a great GANGTOK: Mr. SWASTIK S. MAHARANA Ph: 271075 (R) 98320 97317 (M) NOT FOR CHARITY, PURELY FOR ENTERTAINMENT achievement for Sikkim, the tini- Apply * Conditions

CUT OUT & from 1 to 9 June 2003 PRESENT THIS SPECIAL OFFER COUPON TO AVAIL offering:HP Deskjet 3325 from 1 to 9 June 2003 qqqq Buy Genuine 5% HP Cartridge 5% DISCOUNT Rs. 2999/- ON MG Marg CARTRIDGES Gangtok CUT OUT & Sikkim PRESENT THIS only at: Amber Ent. Ph: 255116 / 228849 COUPON TO AVAIL Published by Lt. Col. (retd) P. Dorjee and printed at Choice International, Daragaon. Editor: Pema Wangchuk. Now! Near Ayurvedi c Clinic, Gairi Gaon, Tadong. East Sikkim. ph: 03592 270949 email: [email protected]

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