July 30-05 August, 2003; NOW! 1 editorial Awaiting a Customised AIDS Programme for Those pursuing the cause EUROPE for an early arrival of the , WEDNESDAY, July 30-05 August, 2003 17th Karmapa to his traditional seat at Rumtek TOUR see the thawing of rela- tions between and CALL FOR BOOKING: China as a welcome development to accelerate their Tashila aspirations. They were TOURS & TRAVELS recently in Deli and at the Prime Minister’s Office to 94341-53567 reiterate their demand to Telephone: allow Karmapa to Runtek 229842 / 222978 NOW!NOW!SIKKIM MATTERS VOL 2 NO 06  Rs. 5 TURN TO pg 4 FOR DETAILS KARMAPA TO MISSION RUMTEK MOVEMENT GATHERS STEAM Film on Sikkim bags National Award a NOW REPORT he National Awards announced earlier this week had a surprise in Tstore for Sikkim. In the non-feature section, the best Promotional Film Award went to Bengali film director Gautam Ghosh for his film “The Treasure in the Snow : A Film on Sikkim”. The film, commissioned by the External Affairs Ministry and the South Asia Foundation promotes Sikkim as a tourist destination. Ghosh is well known both for feature films as well as documentaries. His series on the Great Silk Route was appreciated by all who have seen it. However, not too many people have heard of his latest film on Sik- kim. The fact that it has won the National Award should spur the Tour- ism Department to get in touch with the External Affairs Ministry and get copies of the film made for local consumption, and also for its own promotional activities. Will definitely make interesting viewing. ACCOMPLISHED A Premier Optical House in Siliguri GANGTOK: A memorandum is not normally taken very seri- Since 1990 CM’S ously. But the very fact that the Sikkim delegation was accomodated for appointments while the Parliament was in HIMALAYAN OPTICAL CENTRE DELHI session shows that leaders in Delhi were being more than just courteous. Given the running political passions in the State, Mangaldeep, Hill Cart Road, Siliguri, Phone: 2433331 YATRA the Chief Minister had to be seen to be committed to various Authorised Dealer: issues. By securing assurances and commitments on such PROVES issues, he has returned from a Delhi trip that has been more Computerised Eye than just token. Testing, Spectacles & FRUITFUL TURN TO pg 3 FOR DETAILS Contact Lens Clinic.

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DRUKPA TSESHI NOWSIKKIM MATTERS ! Turning The Wheel of Dharma Awaiting a Customised AIDS physics, suiting the intellect and by TASHI TENZING temperament of every individual with different levels of capacity Programme For Sikkim ny intellectual endeavour and understanding. Involving politicians in the nation’s battle against HIV/AIDS to cater to the need of a Since the Buddhist culture and is an example of imaginative thinking to combat the spread Areadership should nor- literature are deeply rooted in the of the disease in India. For too long, AIDS awareness drives mally be above pride and preju- Dharma, it is imperative for every in India have vacillated between what is dictated by western dice and should strictly adhere to Buddhist to realise the significance interests and thinking or the confusion of Ms. Sushma the principles of authenticity. of the day. The occasion being a mul- Swaraj’s prudent mind which has mistaken promotion of Lately, it is observed that certain tiplying day as regards the merit and condoms to avoid AIDS as promotion of promiscuity. AIDS writers tend to tamper with his- demerit [Gewa-Digpa] pure religious is perhaps a bigger threat to the nation than even communal torical facts and present their practise is emphasised. Buddhist discord. At least in the latter, the enemy has a face. The clouded views on the subject. Un- devotees visit in the vi- killer virus, on the other hand, has so infiltrated the society fortunately, the attitude of our 1. The sufferings cinity and make their humble offer- that high-risk groups are no longer easily identifiable. Now, highly esteemed readership is of 2. The cause of Sufferings ings and pray for global peace, har- everyone is at risk and it is anybody’s guess how well- indifferent nature. These circum- 3. The Cessation of Sufferings mony and prosperity. Religious serv- equipped our health system is to tackle an outbreak. Actually, stances compelled me to venture 4. The path leading to the Ces- ices are organised at all places of wor- with 4 million and counting, one wonders how it still doesn’t into a relatively authentic version, sation of sufferings by following ship. Thousands of butter lamps and qualify as an epidemic. SARS infected much lesser people which of course is far from scho- the eight noble fold paths [Phang- Tsog-offerings are lavishly offered. and the paranoia even in India was palpable. lastic perfection. lam-yeinlag-gyed]. Rimpoches are invited for the occa- Anyways, policy matters are best left to the Parliament when Drukpa Tseshi, the fourth day Lord Buddha was a compas- sion to bless the general devotees with ever it decides to conduct business, our concerns remains of the sixth month of the Tibetan sionate and universal teacher. He special initiations [Kawang]. Sikkim. lunar calendar is observed every was an enlightened person of Day-long fasting [Nyung-Ne] The State’s isolation [our interaction with mainstream is still year as one of the major events in myriad tongues who could ex- is also a part of the spiritual prac- limited] buffers it to a large extent from the HIV swell. But the life of Lord Buddha by plain the most profound teachings tice. The devotees refrain from we are hardly safe. The northeast, which is perhaps even Mahayana Buddhists throughout in the simplest form of the native eating meat and consuming in- more isolated, but grappling with a higher infection rate than the world. This festival com- language and make a permanent toxicating drinks on this day. Ob- perhaps even Mumbai. The virus is believed to have memorates Lord Buddha’s first impact on the masses. His spiritual serving the festival with tradi- transferred intravenously through addicts there. Although sermon at Deer Park in Sarnath, guidance helped countless follow- tional gaiety and seriousness the the number of intravenous substance abusers in Sikkim Varanasi, to the five disciples who ers to realise the supreme truth might be relatively lower, they remain a “high-risk” group younger generation get encour- and attain Nirvana or Liberation which has not even been quantified as yet. In fact, if anything, were earlier his rivals [Khor-nga- aged and thereby generate cultural it will be the lack of reliable data on anything that is going to de-zangpo]. The first profound [Tharpa]. The greatness of his heritage awareness. be Sikkim’s undoing. Just because drivers are clubbed in sermon expounded the four noble teaching method is the unique [The writer is a senior teacher the high-risk category, we hold a street play on AIDS every truths namely: treatment of various subjects at Academy, second day at taxi stands. How many chances could a driver [Dhen-pa-shi] ranging from medicine to meta- Gangtok] get to contract HIV while doing a Bazaar-5th Mile local?? Even the number of HIV+ve cases in Sikkim is a dodgy figure. They have been uncovered by chance. We need to do better or prepare for the day when the virus has Look Ma, we got twins - entrenched itself too deep to be avoided any more. What Sikkim needs and should formulate is a customised AIDS Awareness programme. What works in the rest of the country cannot and should not be transposed on Sikkim. 181 of them! Not only could it fail, it might even divert attention from the real situation. Needless to add, such a focus will be difficult he periodic attempts to se erates in their outfits. So, the an- to formalise, but we have enough people who have worked cure a consensus on the swer probably is that there aren’t in the field to chalk out a programme that works for Sikkim. TWomen’s Reservation Bill DEEP many women who are keen on the Let’s hope they do.... are becoming too much of a farce rough and tumble of politics. If for anyone to take them seriously. this is the case, then the arbitrary The latest rabbit to emerge from FOCUS fixing of 33 per cent is a mistake our Parliamentarians’ hat is actu- RANJIT SINGH since it will mean filling the allot- Being Misinformed ally a twin. ted quota virtually by force. There he fact that Indian newspapers cover the militant problem with It now appears that the Par- women. Twin-voting rights! is every possibility in such a situ- Tenthusiasm is understandable. Not only is it a prominent issue, it liament can even be physically re- If this proposal gets the nod, ation that women who are unin- is far more sensational a story than, say, Indo- development arranged to accommodate more the total number of constituencies terested in politics will be com- cooperation. But, in recent weeks, more Bhutanese readers are ques- female parliamentarians. will remain the same at 544 but pelled to contest, thereby creating tioning the credibility of the coverage. Some of the reports are not It was always the fear of los- the number of Lok Sabha seats new problems for the political and only wrong, they are consistently wrong. ing their seats to women if reser- will go up to 725 (544+181). legislative system. For example, many of the Indian newspapers reported a June 30 vations were implemented that This sounds like a very neat In any case, reservations are deadline set by the government for the militants to leave Bhutan. Any- kept stalling the passage of the brainwave, except that the Lok meant for communities, not for one following the militant issue would know that, on the contrary, Women’s Bill. But the new idea Sabha then becomes an even more groups within it based on gender there was a standing Assembly resolution for the government to hold is more elaborate and designed to grossly unwieldy hodgepodge. or any other factor. Any affirma- one more round of talks with the ULFA leaders. They would also know make the men feel secure of hold- It is obvious that if politicians tive action on such consideration that the National Assembly, which would have to discuss such a reso- ing on to their seats. were serious about women enter- is highly unusual, to say the least. lution, only began at the end of June. And most people, especially The original Bill stipulated ing Parliament in adequate num- The proposed amendment to journalists, would know that a foreign ministry official that they some- that 33 per cent – that is 181 – of bers they would have nominated the Bill, apart from the bureau- times quoted could not issue such deadlines. Attempts by the Bhutanese seats be reserved for women in far more women than they do at cratic and financial burden of an embassy in to counter such reports are, understandably, Parliament and the legislatures. present. Since they do not, it can inflated house, will assuredly af- feeble. And millions of readers in India probably believed that such a That would leave the remaining only be due to the fact that there fect the discipline within the Par- deadline existed. 363 of the 544 Lok Sabha seats aren’t enough women in politics liament, which is already a matter The origin of such information is anyone’s guess but it was wide- for the general category. The new who are capable of winning an of disgrace for the nation. It would spread and persistent in many newspapers. As a result many readers proposal earmarks an extra 181 election. also mean structural changes to probably concluded that the militants ignored this deadline and the constituencies for women, with- There are parties today like accommodate another 181 seats. government had backtracked. out upsetting the present status. the Congress, the AIADMK and All in all, the whole thing sounds, Such trends might protract an already difficult problem. But we This means 181 constituencies the BSP which have for their lead- yet again, familiarly like rhetoric have to live with it. What is important is that Bhutan will have to will be considered double seats, ers formidable women. If they meandering aimlessly, but assur- maintain a complete clarity on the issue, considering all possible im- where a voter will have the right want to give more tickets to edly towards nowhere – some- plications, and the critical decisions ahead must be very sound. to elect two MPs - one on a open women, there is nothing stopping thing the Parliamentary popula- - Kuensel, a Thimpu [Bhutan] based English weekly seat and the other reserved for them. Certainly no male bias op- tion is adept at.

24 July 30-05 August, 2003; NOW! 3 UP-FRONTUP-FRONT MISSION ACCOMPLISHED a NOW REPORT CM’s Delhi Yatra proves fruitful - Direct Taxes GANGTOK: “Our Delhi visit this time was most satisfying. Every- kept back, assurances secured one we met took the meetings se- riously and some even made very tion with a case on the same issue clear assurances,” said BB in the courts. The memorandum Gooroong, the Political Advisor to reminds the Ministry of its earlier the Chief Minister when asked to decision to resolve the issue by comment on the recent Delhi-yatra constituting a committee with of the Chief Minister, his Cabinet members from Central and State colleagues and legislators. Governments under the chairman- Despite the ongoing Parlia- ship of a member from CBDT. mentary session, the Sikkim del- It has also complained that the egation managed to get appoint- decision to “abandon” the proc- ments with all senior ministers, The Sikkim delegation led by the Chief Minister in a meeting ess of deliberation [if the decision including the Prime Minister, Atal with the Deputy Prime Minister, LK Advani in New Delhi implement direct taxes for now,” to constitute the committee has in- Behari Vajpayee, 23 July, and sub- Mr. Gooroong disclosed. deed been abandoned] has not mitted a 10-point memorandum Mr. Chamling to the meeting, told nance Minister, Jaswant Singh, on Informed sources further re- been formally communicated to encapsulating Sikkim’s political, NOW! that the CM explained all Sikkim’s request for “non-en- veal that the Ministry of Finance the State Government, which, the economic and social demands. the points in the memorandum in forcement of direct taxes - exemp- has also sent “word” to officials memorandum adds: “is not in the The meeting also offered the detail to the Prime Minister, who tion of Indians of Sikkimese ori- at the Jalpaiguri office which spirit of mutual consultation be- delegation a chance to thank the assured to mark the demands im- gin identified under Sikkim Citi- looks after Sikkim to tone down tween the State and Central Gov- Prime Minister for his commitment mediately to the concerned min- zenship Order 1975 from appli- their “enthusiasm”. ernment”. to and success in getting Nathula istries with directions to “try and cation of direct taxes.” The positive response from the The Ministry has now agreed opened for trade with China. do as much as is possible.” “The Finance Minister was Minister is welcome given the fact to heed Sikkim’s request and will Mr. Gooroong, who was part The most heartening assur- most sympathetic towards Sik- that the Ministry was making the be reinitiating dialogue on the is- of the delegation accompanying ance, however, came from the Fi- kim’s cause and assured not to wrong noises in Court in connec- sue at a later date, it is learnt. THE DEMANDS REITERATED... UNIVERSITY OF NORTH BENGAL from the present 32 to 40 and point further by mentioning that Admission Notice: 3rd Batch: 2003 - 04 Session a NOW REPORT quotes Article 371F[f] which “Sikkimese of Nepali origin are a makes concessions for such in- distinct group who are yet to reach B. Sc in Internet Science (3 Years) he reserved BL and crease “for the purpose of protect- to civil society status and need pro- B. Sc in Software Systems (3 Years) Sangha seats in the As ing the rights and interests of dif- tection which should not be difficult Diploma in Multimedia (1 Year) sembly, which have cre- ferent sections of the population in a total population of 5,40,493”. T  Application are invited from (10+2) passed / appeared candidates in any stream ated a lot of confusion and heart- of Sikkim.” This purpose has Such protection can also or Graduate in any stream. burn in the State also form part of come about with the recent inclu- come in the form of reservation  Regular classes are held in authorised centres (ZED CA) under continous super- the Memorandum and was also sion of Limboo and Tamang com- of seats for Sikkimese of Nepali vision of the University. raised with the Minister for Tribal munities as tribals and the need origin. The fifth point of the  Study materials are provided byu the University. Affairs, Juel Oram, where again to earmark seats for them in an memorandum pleads a case pro-  Scholarship discounts will be given to meritorious students.  the Constitutional necessity to Assembly which has no scope for testing the 1980 amendment Students appearing for compartmental exams are also eligible. protect these seats was raised. further reservations. which took away the seats re- Prospectus and application forms available at: Zed Career Academy (Gang- The meat of the memoran- Following on the heels of this served for this community. The tok & Namchi) on payment of Rs. 200/- dum, however, comes from the demand is a request to declare Sik- State argues that with an increase Last Date for submission of forms: State Government’s demand for kim a Tribal State. The protection in developmental and commercial 31 August 2003. increase in the number of seats in that such a status brings about will activities in Sikkim, there is bound Course Starts: September 2003 the State Assembly despite the not only be in the interest of na- to be a change in the demographic AUTHORISED N.B.U. STUDY CENTRES IN SIKKIM. Election Commission moratorium tional security, but also make the structure which would entail a GANGTOK: NAMCHI: of any changes in numbers till people feel more secure about their threat to existence of ethnic Paro Building, Opp. Arambagh’s Above Dokham Hotel, Near S.B.I. 2026. The memorandum requests futures, the memorandum says. Sikkimese of Nepali origin since NH 31 / A, Deorali Namchi Bazaar, South Sikkim. an increase in Assembly strength The Memorandum stresses the turn to pg 9 Ph: 281039 Ph: 264686 PC now at MONSOON OFFER!!!unbelievable price Intel Pentium 4 Processor - 1.9 GHz just for AMD Athlon XP_Processor 2000 128 MB DDR SD RAM, 40 GB HDD + Quanti Speed architecture just for 48X CD DRIVE + 1.44 FDD Rs. 36,990/- 128 MB DDR SD RAM, 40 GB HDD Compaq MV5500 Color Monitor (15”) 48X CD DRIVE + 1.44 FDD Rs. 31,990/- JBL Platinum Speakers with Digital Audio Port Compaq MV5500 Color Monitor (15”) Optical Mouse + Internet Keyboard JBL Platinum Speakers with Digital Audio Port USB 2.0 Ports Optical Mouse + Internet Keyboard USB 2.0 Ports

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35 4; NOW! July 30-05 August, 2003 POWERPOWER PLAYPLAY KARMAPA TO RUMTEK MOVEMENT completes the emotional integra- A Tibetan news agency, Times tion of Sikkim with the national of , on 24 July reported that mainstream… in view of the his- “the wait for the 17th Karmapa, GATHERS STEAM toric diplomatic developments Ogyen Trinlay Dorjee , who heads Chamling, who was also in Delhi mand” to let him visit Sikkim is a with China, we feel hopeful in the Kagyu Karma sect of Tibetan by SARIKAH ATREYA at the time. “We met Mr. Chamling demand from minority Indian na- requesting you to allow the 17th Buddhists to visit the Rumtek in the Sikkim House and have re- tionals who want to “preserve and Karmapa to come to Rumtek,” the in Sikkim may soon be GANGTOK: The pressure on the quested him to take up the issue protect” their religious rights. memorandum read. over as there is a hint from the Central government by Buddhist during his meeting with the PM,” Mr. Topden felt that the “de JAC has also requested the Centre that he may be allowed to organisations of Sikkim to allow the Mr. Chungyalpa said. facto recognition given to Sikkim Centre to allow Urgyen Trinley visit the monastery.” 17th Karmapa, Urgyen Trinley Interestingly, the vice-chair- by China” could pave the way for Dorjee to visit his guru and one “The Indian government has Dorjee to come to Sikkim and take man of the Scheduled Tribes and the Karmapa to take his rightful of the four regents of the Rumtek assured powerful Buddhist his rightful place at the Rumtek Scheduled Castes Commission, place at the Rumtek Monastery. Monastery, Tai Situ Rinpoche at groups from Sikkim that it is con- Monastery has gathered momentum Ven. Lama Chosphel Zopta also In the memorandum submitted the Sherabling Monastery. “Since sidering their demand to allow a with the easing of tensions between accompanied the delegation dur- to the PM, JAC has congratulated the primary purpose of the senior Tibetan religious leader to China and India and the declaration ing its meeting with Mr. Mishra. the Centre and the PM for the “ex- Karmapa’s flight to India three visit his temporal seat of power by the Prime Minister that Sikkim Sonam Topden, General Sec- cellent and historic diplomatic suc- years ago was to receive teachings in the northeastern state,” it adds. ceases to be an issue with China. retary, JAC reportedly told news cess” during his recent China visit. from Tai Situ Rinpoche, we ap- It remains to be seen how far Encouraged by this latest de- persons in New Delhi that “The bilateral agreement to peal that the Karmapa be allowed the latest JAC memorandum goes velopment, a delegation of key Karmapa’s followers in Sikkim open the trade route through to visit the Rinpoche,” JAC said in convincing the Centre to see Buddhist organisations in the State, were Indian citizens and the “de- Nathu-La is noteworthy since it in its memorandum. things their way. under the aegis of the Joint Action Committee, was in New Delhi last week to press the Central Govern- ment to allow the Karmapa to come to the Rumtek Monastery. Although the delegation, led by JAC president Kunzang Sherab could not meet the Prime Minister, they met the security adviser to the PM, Brajesh Mishra Samsung 20 Just for Rs. 17,990.00 and submitted a memorandum re- iterating their demand for allow- CTV + (FREE CARPET) ing Urgyen Trinley Dorjee to come to Sikkim, to be forwarded Samsung to the PM. Copies of the memo- randum were also sent to Home 175 ltrs. and External Affairs ministries. “We had a very fruitful meet- Refrigerator ing with Mr. Mishra in New Delhi. + Medal VCD We assured him that allowing the Karmapa to visit Rumtek Monas- tery would not lead to any law and order problems. There are a great deal of restrictions on his movement within the country and outside, which are hampering his spiritual mission. 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4 July 30-05 August, 2003; NOW! 5 FOCUSFOCUS UD&HD SPENDS Rs. 77 LAKHS ON “IMPROVING” SOMETHING THAT DOES NOT EXIST! a NOW REPORT identifying slum areas or decid- a NOW! pic the country,” his department under- ing on the amenities to be pro- took works to provide basic serv- GANGTOK: Mushrooming of vided for slum dwellers. ices for improvement of environ- slums form a part of urbanisation. The department, in its re- ment conditions of areas as per the Gangtok is no different. The Na- sponse to the Public Accounts broad objectives provided under tional Slum Policy has guidelines Committee, the constitutional the National Slum Policy. He fur- prescribing which areas qualify to body which looks into the find- ther stated that his department did be called a slum and while such ings tabled in the CAG Report, in not mislead the Centre on its law of averages don’t always ap- June 2000 asserted that the funds achievements since the works were ply to hill states, Gangtok too has were spent mostly on slum areas carried out in areas where the ob- its share of areas which can be and claimed that a “detailed sur- jectives of the National Slum branded as slums and an ongoing vey report” had been taken up and Policy were fulfilled. He further programme – Environmental Im- was almost complete. informed that a State Slum Policy provement of Urban Slums Two years later, in January had been submitted for approval [EIUS]. High time, one might say, 2002, auditors from the Account- to the State Government and that but how would one react if told that ant General’s office discovered a survey to identify slums, to be UD&HD spent Rs. 77.48 lakhs on that the “almost complete” de- conducted soon, would be based perceived “environmental im- tailed survey was never under- on this Policy. To find slums, the UD&HD could have just looked behind the provement” of Gangtok slums be- taken by the Department. When The AG’s office is far from con- concrete highrises of the capital to discover ugly shanties with tween 1998 to 2002 without even vinced and maintains that spending the Accountant General specifi- doors that open in empty spaces a where hygiene is nonexistent identifying the slum areas? cally asked for a copy of the Sur- on improving slums without hav- The Comptroller Auditor vey Report [on identifying urban Lack of data notwithstanding, conducted to identify slum dwell- ing identified such areas was wrong General of India’s report for Sik- slums, remember], the Commis- the Department persisted with ers in the first place. on the Department’s part and has kim [for the year ended 31 sioner-cum-Secretary replied that projects for urban slums in devel- In September 2002, the Com- even questioned the necessity of im- March, 2002], suggests that not the survey undertaken by oped areas of the State. The funds missioner-cum-Secretary, re- plementing the programme in Sik- only were the “benefits” derived UD&HD to identify families liv- under EIUS were spent on pro- sponded to the CAG findings by kim, which, according to the De- from the expense “uncertain,” ing below poverty line [!] was tective works, garbage collection, maintaining that since Sikkim does partment’s “perception” has “no” but also alleges that the inaccu- abandoned when a similar exer- construction of footpaths and not have “slums like in the rest of slum areas. rate achievement reports were cise was also undertaken by the drainage etc. “This was not the ob- submitted the Centre. Planning & Development Depart- jective of EIUS programme,” the The CAG Report, tabled in ment. “It was not clear to Audit CAG Report maintains. PHCs now officially under the Assembly on 19 July, reveals how a BPL survey conducted by The Department, however, re- that its earlier report for 1997-98 Planning & Development Depart- ported that it had met the Centre’s gram panchayats had questioned the rationale be- ment would serve the purpose of target of covering 3,000 families GANGTOK: The management and supervision of Primary Health hind the Rs. 41.27 lakh expendi- the UD&HD for undertaking en- in urban slums, which according Sub Centres [PHCs], have been transferred to the Gram Panchayat ture incurred by UD&HD under vironmental improvement of to the AG’s office is “suspect” Units. This was made known at a review meeting of the medical offic- the EIUS programme without slums,” the CAG Report records. given the fact that no survey was ers of the 24 PHCs of Sikkim held at the Conference Hall of the Health Secretariat, on July 26. The meeting was called to discuss the modalities of functioning under the Panchayati Raj institutions. The meeting also shed light on the fact that the Department had already transferred Rs. 70.00 lakhs to ENTEL Motors congratulates Baichung the Gram Panchayat Unit. The performance of the PHCs was reviewed and the doctors di- rected to monitor the effective implementation of the programme. The doctors were sensitised towards improving their managerial compe- tence and were asked to remain alert for and check the outbreak of seasonal epidemics like gastroenteritis. A FAMILY THAT ‘POSES’ TOGETHER...

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5 6; NOW! July 30-05 August, 2003 RECAPRECAP SIKKIMSIKKIM Roads and rain don’t get along, Report on the specially up in Dzongu state of Sikkim’s by SARIKAH ATREYA MANGAN: The monsoons have Env soon been more than generous this sea- accessible information on the state son and although the farmers must a NOW REPORT of current environment and future be cheering the rain-bearing clouds outlook for the region’s environ- into Sikkim, the roads are bearing GANGTOK: The Department of ment. the brunt of torrential downpours, Forests, Environment and Wild- Such reports help decision- specially in north Sikkim. Even life is preparing a state of Envi- makers make informed predic- stretches which have been made ronment (SoE) report for Sikkim. tions regarding the broad environ- only recently have fallen apart and The report will bring out informa- mental consequences of social, “exposed” the quality of work. tion on the current state of envi- economic, and environmental Take the case of the road from ronment and make future projec- policies and plans. Sangkhlang to Upper Dzongu for tions. It will have an all encom- The project includes capacity example. Known as the passing impact on developing building at the Centre as well as Sangkhlang-Bey road, and still strategies for better environment the state level. Two institutions under construction, this is the only management. The report is ex- will be identified as supporting road that connects the far-flung pected to make detailed assess- arms of the Government of India, villages of Upper Dzongu with the A landslide near Passangthang on the Sangkhlang-Bey road ment of the environmental impact which will provide technical ex- rest of the State. Most of the road of policies and programmes im- pertise to the state government in is complete. It has reached a little rains, the road converted into an precariously just above the road. plemented by various departments preparation of the SoEs. Tripar- beyond the Lingza village, leading endless march of slush. Informed Although the District Admin- of the state government. tite arrangement between UNEP up to the Bey village at present. sources reveal that the black-top- istration, North, has spurred repair An official communique from and institution such as TERI, From 3rd Mile, the road bifurcates ping was rushed through only last work, it was the locals who initi- the Department further informs CSE, IGIDR, ASCI etc and MoEF towards the Tingvong village. month. It did not last long. Already, ated the process first. In a show that the report will also examine will be formalised for developing Despite having been com- the road is pockmarked with cavi- of immense resolve, villagers, es- possible scenarios with overall skills in the preparation of SoEs. pleted a year ago, most portions ties and slips. The locals are now pecially from the Tingvong block purpose of conservation of natu- The Forest Department has of the road had not been pitched even questioning the quality of the took upon themselves the task of ral resources and restoration and announced plans to organise a until recently. It was, however, work, pointing out that the contrac- restoring their only link to the rest improvement of environment qual- workshop on the methodology to motorable. Navigating the narrow, tor should have known of the fe- of the world. Villagers undertook ity which permit sustainable devel- be adopted in the preparation of unpitched roads, with the torrents rocity of the rains in the area and the temporary repair of the opment. The SoE will be prepared SoEs and for capacity building of of Kannaka flowing below, de- executed work which could have Tingvong road, which had on a rotation of three years. the members of the working group mands not only exceptional driv- withstood the abuse. breached at several places after The need for such a report on 31 July and 1 August at Forest ing skills, but also a certain Adding to commuter woes of the heavy showers. The work was was felt to provide the public, Annexe. The Chief Minister amount of derring-do on the part sinking roads, landslides too have too urgent for them to await de- government and non government Pawan Chamling will reportedly of the passengers as well. hit the stretch at several places. At partmental assistance. organizations with accurate and be inaugurating the workshop. Rains have made matters one point, a massive rock has slid The roads are far from safe at worse. The black-top missing, with off the hilltop and is now hanging present ADMISSIONS OPEN SILIGURI INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT & TECHNOLOGY (Affiliated by) ‘Dr. C.V. RAMAN UNIVERSITY, RAIPUR’ under University Grants Commission The Govt. Registered Sunshine For Courses Like: BBA, MBA, BCA, MCA, comes to Gangtok MASS COMMUNICATION, LIBRARY SCIENCE, PGD in FASHION DESIGNING, HARDWARE MAINTENANCE, BIO-TECHNOLOGY and Many Other Courses CONTACT: 29, SWAMIJI SARANI, HAKIMPARA, SILIGURI, DIST. , WEST BENGAL. PH: 0353 - 2532131, CELL- 98320 16308, 41865 SPOT ADMISSION NOTICE Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Tech- WANT 2 FLY? WANT A WING?? COME ON!!! nology and Applied Nutrition, Tadong, Sikkim, (s/b Government of India and Government of GET A Sikkim) announces spot admission notice for DIPLOMA COURSES in various fields of hotel RUSH TO: management on 6 August 2003. Pass in 10+2 in any stream may appear personally with their SIKKIM HYUNDAI proof of age and qualification at the Institute at 6th MILE, TADONG, GANGTOK 11 AM. For details contact on 03592-270735, sales: 232874 service: 232873 270557 Sanjana: 98320-11592 (sales) Arnab: 98320-43536 (service) Administrator

6 July 30-05 August, 2003; NOW! 7 RECAPRECAP SIKKIMSIKKIM Health Secy speaks on Human Rights of AIDS patients ORS to combat diarrhoea Sikkim medicos get refreshed on AIDS threat a NOW REPORT] GANGTOK: Diarrhoea kills a believes greater political involve- through awareness programmes. tient rights, awareness to reduce person by dehydration. This by ANAND OBEROI ment could be a “vital tool” in Management of AIDS is a very the stigma on AIDS patients, means that too much liquid has turning back the epidemic. Aware- complicated issue and thus train- maintaining confidentiality of af- been drained out of the child’s ince the first case of HIV was ness at the highest level of deci- ing programmes like these are fected persons and sensitising of body. So, as soon as diarrhoea Sreported in India 17 years ago, sion making is, of course vital. very important,” he added health-care workers. starts, it is essential to give the the number of Indians carrying But, implementing this awareness This training programme Dr. RP Singh, Dean, Sikkim child extra drinks to replace the the virus has swelled to a stag- to reach out to the poorest, most comes under the 2nd phase of Manipal Medical College and liquid being lost. This was the gering four and half million. A illiterate and improperly net- AIDS Control Programme in the Hospital stressed that AIDS and main message given by the De- US intelligence report last year worked rural and urban areas is country. Doctors will be sent to STD were interrelated and a partment of Health and Family projected that India would have the real problem. Chennai for further training. The combined effort is needed to Welfare on Oral Rehydration So- the highest number of HIV/AIDS To understand some of these 3rd phase of the ACP will start in keep a check on the two. He lution Day, observed on 29 July. cases at 20-25 million by 2010. issues a Refresher Training Pro- March 2004. warned of the fallouts from the In addition to homemade fluids At present we are second only to gramme on HIV, AIDS and STDs Dr. TR Gyatso, Secretary, opening of the Nathula Pass and like fruit juice, daal water, rice South Africa. The disease has was organised by the Sikkim State Health and Family Welfare and trade with China saying that in- water and sugar and salt solution, spread from high-risk groups AIDS Control Society at Hotel Chief guest at the programme, discriminate passing of trucks the child should be given Oral such as sex workers and drug Rendezvous from 29 July to 31 emphasized on the Human Rights and people will affect the fabric Rehydration Solution. The abusers to people living in inte- July. Specialists, consultants and aspect of the disease. He said that of Sikkimese society exposing it readymade packets of ORS are rior villages and cities with large resource persons from various the National Human Rights Com- to health problems. Resource available at all Health centres in migrant population. hospitals from Sikkim, Assam, mission has sent its recommenda- persons, he said, should discuss the State. Medicine other than Manipur and West Bengal at- tions for Sikkim. The recommen- this problem which may soon be- ORS should not be used except A two-day National Confer- tended the programme. dations ask for protection of pa- come a reality. on medical advise. ence on HIV/AIDS for elected Speaking on the occasion Dr. representatives held in New Delhi RL Sharma, Project Director, last week vowed to find new ways SSACS said that it was important to control the dreaded disease and to hold such programmes because called for mobilising of resources it is very rare that supervisors and to meet the scale and devastating specialists come together on one impact of the disease. This con- platform. vention was the first of its kind, “AIDS affects all section of getting together more than a thou- society, that is why to curb the sand political leaders from across disease, prevention is the only the country. The United Nations way and this could come only

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15 8; NOW! July 30-05 August, 2003 DESPATCHESDESPATCHES Eviction drive launched in Dzongu Lepcha reserve been occupying unauthorised These illegal occupants were legal occupants” to produce affi- ever, insistent that no further ex- a NOW REPORT land for many years now. We have first served notices by the DC, davits if they want more time be- tensions will be accommodated issued notices to them to vacate North, six months ago and have fore they can move out of after the one sought by the squat- MANGAN: The North District the land or face official action,” been receiving reminders as well Dzongu. The officials are, how- ters expires. administration has decided to un- he said. under the Sikkim Public Premises dertake yet another eviction drive. The District Administration Eviction Act, 1980. The latest This time, in the reserved area of reportedly acted on complaints notice has given them time till 31 Dzongu. received from locals. July, Thursday, to vacate or the MP’z LIBRARY Informed sources reveal that The area falls under the District administration would take the latest round of eviction drive Dzongu Lepcha reserve. The en- forceful action under the Act. invites applications for the following academic pro- is directed at unauthorised settle- croachers are all Nepal nationals This latest eviction drive has grammes for 2003-2004 session. ments around the Ambithang, who have stayed back after their been supported by the locals and the Affiliated to Dr. C.V.Raman Unversity and Bharatiya Shiksha Parishad (U.P.) (Recognised U.G.C.) Choday and Sankhlang areas in employment with GREF ended. Panchayats as well, but it has not Dzongu. The locals, wary of their presence, been without the usual hitches and 1. FACULTY OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE The Sub-Divisional Magis- were concerned about antisocial delays due to strong-arm tactics Course / Duration: trate, North, PW Lepcha told activities in the area and asked the adopted by some of the illegal oc- 1. Diploma in Computer Application (1 Yr) NOW! that the drive is directed District administration to inter- cupants, who claim to have stayed 2. PGD in E-Commerce Application (1 Yr.) at unauthorised clusters of houses vene. Concerns have also been there for more than twenty years. 3. PGD in Information Engineering (1 Yr.) that have come up on the aban- raised on the issue of deforestation The DC’s office, however, is com- 4. PGD in Fashion Designing (1 Yr.) doned road along these places. and sanitation problems in the area mitted to its 31 July deadline. 5. B. Sc. IT (3 Yrs.) 6. M. Sc. IT (Lateral Entry) (1 Yr.) “Non-locals, presumably because of these encroachers. Sympathetic concession have, 7. M. Sc. Computer Science (2 Yrs.) former GREF labourers have set There are about 60 families living however, been made. The DC’s 8. MCA (3 Yrs.) up their dwellings here and have illegally in the area, it is learnt. office has reportedly told the “il- 2. FACULTY OF ARTS. 1. Bachelor of Arts (3 Yrs.) 2. M.A. (2 Yrs.) TENDER NOTICE 3. FACULTY OF COMMERCE 1. B. Com (3 Yrs.) SIKKIM MANIPAL INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES (SMIMS) 2. M. Com (2 Yrs.) 4. FACULTY OF LIBRARY SCIENCE & CENTRAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL (CRH) 1. D. Lib Sc.& Information Technology (1 Yr.) 5th Mile, Tadong, Sikkim 2. B. Lib. Sc. & IT (1 Yr.) 3. M. LIb Sc. & IT (2yrs.) TENDER IS INVITED FROM THE CONTRACTOR FOR THE FOLLOWING JOB. 5. FACULTY OF MANAGEMENT 1. To run Student mess for SMIMS and 1. D. in Business Adm. (1 Yr.) 2. To run canteen, patient mess and staff mess for CRH 2. All PG Degrees CRITERIA: 3. B.B.A. (3 Yrs.) 4. M.B.A. (2 Yrs.) Application and Prospectus 1. Contractor should hold a valid license for running hotel / restaurant issued by Govern- can be obtained from ment of Sikkim. 6. FACULTY OF EDUCATION 1. B.T.C. (2 Yrs.) 2. Contractor should have experience in the prescribed field at least for two years. 2. B.Ed. (2 Yrs. ) MP’z LIBRARY Seperate Tender Form (for CRH & SMIMS) will be available from 7th August 2003 to 12th Au- 3. B. Ed. Integrated (1 Yr.) from 1 August 2003. gust 2003. Interested parties may collect their ‘tender form’ from the Chief Engineer’s office, 4. M. Ed. (1 Yr.) For further details: SMIMS on payment of Rs. 2000.00 (Rupees Two Thousand only) for each tender form on week- 5. N.T.T. (1 Yr.) MP’z LIBRARY days in between 9AM to 5 PM. 7. FACULTY OF LAW Near S.N.O.D. Petrol Pump Dean, 1. L.L.B. (3 Yrs.) 2. L.L.M. (2 Yrs.) Deorali, Gangtok. Sikkim Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences Phone: 03592-281527 5th Mile, Tadong KAZIRANGA COUNTS ITS DEAD 36 animals killed; more waves of floods wave itself could have been worse mals, many of them on the list of in case the water had entered with endangered species. “The annual could create further havoc the force as it did in 1998,” says recurring expenditure is above Rs by BIJOY SHANKAR Arimora dyke that now stands Vasu. The damage so far notwith- 1 crore but we never get it,” says between the 430 square kilome- standing, the flood water rose Vasu. “We have to depute at least HANDIQUE tre park and the floods that could gradually, giving the animals pre- 100 casual labours apart from the KAZIRANGA NATIONAL destroy it from the north. cious time to take refuge in high- permanent ones to keep the roads PARK, JULY 25, 2003: For now, there isn’t much time lands or migrate out of the park inside the park motorable.” The This isn’t tourist time at to talk about the 60 KNP security through the corridors. In 1998, a requirement list seems endless: Kaziranga, and the picture no- personnel who are bedridden af- total of 652 animals fell victim to battery cells for at least 700 secu- where close to being as green as ter being injured by the animals the havoc that floods wreak in the rity guards deputed in the 125 it is meant to be. It’s time to count in the park. “The number of men park every year. The signs this camps, kerosene oil for the camps the dead. With the water level re- wounded by rhinos would be year too are ominous. “We are of patrolling guards, fuel for 15 ceding in the past three days (that more,” says Niranjan Kumar praying for the best,” says Vasu. vehicles, six motorboats, four would be a moment’s respite be- Vasu, the park’s director. Most of the park’s 500 km Located in the Bokakhat sub- speedboats and one big ferry. fore the second, third, fourth and Back to the animals. “Of the roads, bridges and dykes, are now division of the Golaghat district For now, KNP is doing what fifth waves come in), the staff at thirty-six animals killed so far, in a shambles. The Mihi bridge, in Upper Assam, KNP rarely re- any government department is ex- the Kaziranga National Park eleven were run over by speed- which links the main thoroughfare ceives attention when it needs it pected to do in such circum- (KNP) is gearing up to assess the ing vehicles while trying to cross to the major tourist destinations the most. Not too many, for ex- stances: submit a proposal for extent of damage; so far, it in- the highway through the four cor- within the park, was under flood ample, discuss the fact that the flood damage and future precau- cludes, among others, 36 animals ridors within the KNP,” says Vasu. water for several days, and if not park does not receive the funds tions that need to be taken, to the dead, and a completely destroyed “Another eleven drowned and immediately repaired, the coming required for maintaining a sanc- state chief minister. If anyone is network of roads. Worst of all, fourteen animals died while be- tourist season could be a mess. tuary that is 4,300 hectares in size, willing to listen that is. there is only the damaged 5 km ing rescued by our men.” “The extent of damage in the first and home to thousands of ani- [By arrangement with Newsfile] July 30-05 August, 2003; NOW! 9 DEVELOPMENTDEVELOPMENT A spontaneous overflow of powerful by TINA RAI feelings inundates Sikkim “Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feeling: it Mahananda Poudyal, eminent Anupam Kumar (Assam) and lish her own book. thankful to the Culture Depart- takes its origin from emotion poet and writer from Nepal was Bhawani Ghimerey, an elderly “We have a very limited read- ment that it has brought out “Kavi recollected in tranquillity” the chief guest at the function. poet from Nepal also attended the ership but what makes matters Sammelan-2002,” Ms. Dahal, - William Wordsworth Two books, “Kavi Sammelan- programme. worse is that even these few read- who started writing poems at the ome such recollections 2002” and “Samjhanna ko desh” Speaking to NOW! on the ers are not able to read our works age of ten, added. were presented by 40 were released at the programme. problems being faced by Nepali because most of it never gets For all budding talents in S Nepali poets from Sikkim “Kavi Sammelan – 2002” is a col- writers, Apsara Dahal, author of printed,” she said. Nepali literature, especially and beyond, at the Kavi- lection of poems recited at a simi- “Samjhana ko desh” and a resi- “It is not as if Sikkim lacks women writers, Ms. Dahal has Sammelan organised by the De- lar function held last year. dent of Hee Bermiok, said that good writers as proven by the this message: “Believe in your- partment of Cultural Affairs in Poets from all over Sikkim Nepali writers faced many diffi- number of writers present at this selves, do not depend on others association with the Eastern Zonal along with those from other states culties, the foremost being that of occasion. The government could and if you have the zeal then no Cultural Centre, Kolkata on July like Arakshita Pradhan (Puri), finding publishers - a problem help these writers by giving them one can stop you from becoming 26 at Community Hall. Prahalad Naveen (Chittorgarh), which forced Ms. Dahal to pub- some financial assistance. I am a successful writer.” The Decision on BRO working on revised estimate for upgrading NH demands medical seats 31A, assures Roads Minister asked the State Government to reiterated... after 26 July a NOW REPORT expedite the submission of Detail Project Report for the alternate Contd from pg 3 dents were awaiting the same. GANGTOK: The newly-ap- national highway - a stretch of 17 they have been clubbed in the a NOW REPORT The Minister also “promised” pointed Union Minister for kms between Melli and Rangpo - unreserved category. The Memo- to consider Sikkim’s request for Roads Transport and Highways, demanded by it. randum calls on the Centre to “re- GANGTOK: Responding to the more seats for specialised post- Maj. Gen. BC Khanduri, on 22 He also urged for prompt uti- sort” to the special provisions State Government’s request to re- graduate seats in fields like cardi- July, assured the Chief Minister lisation of funds given under Cen- under Article 317F[f] to restore store the number of seats in medi- ology, radiology and anaesthetics. Pawan Chamling that the Border tral Road Fund and other the seats taken away in 1980. cal institutions reserved for Sikkim On the State’s request for re- Roads Organisation was already schemes. With Limboos and Tamangs students to its original 20 in the newal of clearance for the 3rd year working on a revised estimate for having made it to ST status, left central pool, the Union Minister MBBS course at Sikkim Manipal upgrading National Highway 31- During the meeting, the Chief out ethnic communities like for Health, Sushma Swaraj, apart University, Ms. Swaraj pointed out A. The project, he revealed re- Minister is also reported to have Gurung, Mangar, Sunwar, Thami, from promising to look into it fa- that although she would send out ceived fresh impetus when the made a special request for the Kirat Rai, Dewan, Jogi and vourably, said that the decision on the instructions to Medical Coun- Prime Minister’s Office called a Ministry’s help in improving the Bhujels. Similarly, OBC status is the current year’s list can be ex- cil of India from her Ministry, rec- detailed meeting with ministry road to Nathula which will soon requested for Bahuns, Chettris, pected after 26 July when she is ognition for the course can be given officials following the PM’s re- see international trade between Newars and Sanyasis. through with a meeting of Health only after seven years as per norms. cent Sikkim visit. India and China. The request for “reverse integra- Ministers from the northeast. Later, the CM also called on Also requested in light of the tion” of the mainstream to Sikkim is The Chief Minister, during his Minister for Development of The Union Minister was re- impending trade was one more also reiterated with the suggestion recent Delhi visit had called on Northeastern Region, Dr. CP sponding to the contents of the bye-pass so that vehicular traffic that Sikkim be accorded “level par- Ms. Swaraj along with his Cabi- Thakur, and discussed issues con- DO letter forwarded by the CM, could avoid Ranipool and ease the ticipation” in decision making proc- net colleagues and legislators on cerning funding of various infra- who led a delegation of his min- congestion there. ess not only in the northeastern re- 24 July and apart requesting for structure development projects isters and legislators to the meet- gion, but also national as well as in- restoration of Sikkim’s original and other related schemes by his ing, requesting funding of the A request to provide the State ternational offices. medical seats quota had called for Ministry. The Minister also prom- upgradation project and building with more road-rollers, hot-mix Pointing out that Bhutia, Lep- the release of the current year’s ised to expedite approval of four of an alternate highway. plant and other road-building cha and Limboo languages are list since a large number of stu- projects pending with his Ministry. Maj. Gen. Khanduri also equipment was also made. well developed, widely spoken and taught at the school and col- lege levels in Sikkim, the Memo- randum has also requested for their inclusion in the 8th Sched- ule of the Constitution. The tenth demand is a set of eight, ranging from requests for setting up of a national institutes for medicinal plants, adventure tourism, horticulture and agricul- ture and specialisation in medi- Bend cine. Central support to harness Sikkim’s hydel potential, request for a 10-seater helicopter and al- ternative national highway from It Like Nathula to Siliguri also find space ! in the latest memorandum. During his Delhi visit, the Sik- kim delegation also called upon the Deputy Prime Minister, LK Advani, Baichung Minister for Surface Transport and Highways, BC Khanduri, Defence Minister, George Fernandes and Union Health Minister, Sushma Swaraj [see accompanying reports Baker’s Café congratulates the man with the Golden Boot. for details].

17 10; NOW! July 30-05 August, 2003 BUSINESSBUSINESS

WANTED a running ho- tel in Gangtok on long lease Cardamom woes continue with mystery disease basis. Location around/ ad- joining bazaar area with 12 to first detected in Gotak, Singphang, Tadung-Rinchenpong According to department 15 rooms capacity. Contact im- a NOW REPORT . In Sikkim, it was first Phuncheybong, Singhing and sources, all efforts are on to iden- mediately, 98320 16738/ reported two years back at Rongli, Buriakhop are the latest casualty. tify the disease and apprise the 94341 26801 GANGTOK: Cardamom, Sik- East Sikkim. A year later, it was Led by JR Subba, Director farmers of control measures that TO LET A four room flat kim’s biggest cash crop is suffer- the turn of Cardamom fields at Horticulture, a team of pathologists, they can take. With the harvest suitable for private residence ing from an unknown ailment. A Dzongu and Manul in North Sik- agri-scientists and officers from the season for the Cardamom plant in the heart of the town. Con- mysterious disease which causes kim to suffer the same fate. department recently visited the af- coming up, it is hoped some solu- tact: NOW! at 270949. yellowing of the leaves and then Ravangla too has not been spared. fected cardamom fields from tion is found soon. The the drying up of the whole plant, Sources reveal that not much Nambu Darap to Buriakhop. Sam- unseasonal hailstorm last year WANTED A Two bedroom is spreading its tentacles over Car- attention was paid when the dis- ple of diseased plants have been caused acute damage to Carda- flat. Contact: HOPE Centre at damom fields, especially in the ease first manifested itself. Now taken for identification and testing mom growers in the state. It will 222979. West district. it has spread wide over many new at the Horticulure lab at Gangtok, be disastrous for the farmers to Anyone wanting to sell old The disease was reportedly areas. Nambu-Darap, Singrang, informs an official release. have a repeat bad year. books, CONTACT 225501. The COYOTE UGLY Sound- track Audio cassette or CD. CONTACT: 9434003724. SITCO unveils 24 new models, WANTEDSingle rooms with a kitchen and bathroom. CALL - 98320 66440, 98320 32792 & 98320 42096 posts 80% hike in sales WANTEDA Second hand Pulsar or CBZ Motorcycle in there are 75 digital and 90 analog Many private manufacturers are good condition. CALL: 227006 models of SITCO in the market. doing well by avoiding certain after 5 PM. The MD introduced Ravi M, rules and nonpayment of taxes. the new GM of SITCO, who has LEARN We are scrupulous in our dealings worked in reputed watch compa- Fine Arts, Oil Paints, Glass Paint- and have still registered good nies like HMT, Regent and ing, Fabric Painting, Pot Painting, sales figures,” he said. Siwaki. Speaking to the Press, he Artificial FLower Making. Contact: The conference was also a re- Upper Arithang, Ph - 221587. mo- remarked that the quality of view meeting for the SITCO’s bile: 98320 33451 SITCO watches was as good as sales representatives based in dif- any other. Adding that there are TUITIONS ferent parts of the country. Ad- new plans in store to boost sales, For Maths & Physics For classes dressing them, Mr. Khampa said, he promised: “Though we are go- IX, X, XI & XII at Deorali. Contact: “You are all selected MBA candi- ing slow we will definitely reach Ph 281039 / 221587 mobile: dates and it is your job to be hon- our goal.” 98320 33451 est in your undertakings. There is no place for those who offer ex- cuses for bad performances at SIKKIM FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION SITCO. Accountability is very im- MD SITCO, Taga Khampa, addresses his sales representatives Independence Day Football Tournament for Sir while the new SITCO models are displayed on the foreground portant, we all should contribute Tashi Namgyal Memorial Cup will be held at TNA Ground, towards profits, for, any business Gangtok from 8th August 2003 to 15th August 2003. A models was prompted by the 80 that does not make profit makes team each from neighbouring Darjeeling, Kurseong, a NOW REPORT per cent increase in sales recorded bad business.” Kalimpong, Siliguri, Durgapur and Nepal are also likely by SITCO in the current year. Out of the 932 outlets of to participate in the tournament. Winner of this tourna- GANGTOK: SITCO launched 9 This, he said was major SITCO watches, 10 were doing ment will be directly slated in the pre-qualifying round of digital and 15 analog watches at achievement keeping in mind that very well, while the others need a two-day Sales Conference held SITCO products were competing to improve on their performance, the forthcoming All India Governor’s Gold Cup Football at its office at Deorali on July 29 against the more branded private according to the MD. At present, Tournament. Interested registered local clubs are advised and 30. The digital watches are companies like TIMEX and TI- to confirm their participation latest by 31 July 2003. Entry priced in the Rs. 500 and more TAN, which have an extensive forms are available from our following officials. range while the analog watches budget for marketing and adver- Menla Ethenpa B K Roka are priced below Rs. 500. tisement. NOW! Secretary / SFA Gen. Secy. / SFA Taga Khampa, MD, SITCO, “We do not have that much of CAN BE REACHED Office: SIMFED Office: Police HQ while unveiling the new models, an advertising budget, so we have AT 270949 Ph: (O) 222429 Ph: (R) 224108 informed the gathering that deci- to earn more and spend a propor- (R) 231333 / 232777 (O) 222933 / 222055 sion to hit the market with new tionate amount on advertising. [email protected]

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18 July 30-05 August, 2003; NOW! 11 SPORTSSPORTS SIKKIM ARCHER IS THE “FIND” OF THE NEW YORK WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

20th Junior National Archery Tarun Deep Rai has Olympic Championship held in Chandigarh and won the gold medal in the Individual Overall gold in his sights now Championship. The following dence that he has been quoted in Although Tarun formed the year he did the Services proud a NOW REPORT reports as claiming: “I am so high surprise-package, those who have again by securing a gold medal at on confidence that if the Olym- been following his growth as an the Sub-Junior National Champi- hen he was picked for the pics are held tomorrow, I can win archer, should not be surprised. onship at Ajmer. He also won the Indian squad for the the gold medal. And, it is my tar- Tarun grew up in Namchi shoot- silver medal at the 21st Junior W44th World Archery get to win a gold at Athens.” ing birds with a primitive bow and National Championship held at Championships, New York, little The Indian team made it to the arrow. When talent-scout of the Vijaywada the same year. Later, must have 19-year-old Tarun semis of the New York World 68 Gorkha Regiment Training in 2001 he won the bronze in the Deep Rai from Namchi realised Championships and lost narrowly Centre came calling on Namchi, overall team Championship held that not would he secure a berth to Italy in the match for the they spotted the then 11-year-old at Hyderabad and last year he won in the individual rounds of the bronze. Tarun qualified for the Tarun and his natural skill and the silver medal in the individual 2004 Olympics in Athens, but also individual category by reaching took him under their wings. In- and team event at the 23rd Senior play a key role in booking a berth the 1/32 round where he lost to a ducted into the Army Boys Com- National Archery Championship for the Indian men’s team in the Taiwanese. pany in 1997, Tarun enrolled into 2002 held at Hyderabad. Olympics scheduled for August The biggest compliment for the army at 16 and was sent to the With Olympic laurels firmly in next year. Tarun Deep Rai has ar- Tarun came from the Indian team Centre of Excellence at Pune to sight, Tarun is now training hard rived and he is hitting the bull’s- coach, Sanjeeva Kumar Singh, further hone his skills. to become the first Sikkimese to eye with inspired consistency. who described him as: “The find Along the way, in 1998, he bring back a medal from the great- So high is Tarun on confi- of the tournament.” represented the Services at the est sporting spectacle. on Gold Cup turns Silver resurgence a NOW REPORT mode SFA HOPES TO ROPE ising player in the boys section. GANGTOK: The Silver Jubilee Table Tennis made its pres- celebrations of the Governors a NOW REPORT ence felt in Sikkim only in 1980 Gold Cup Football Tournament IN FOREIGN TEAMS GANGTOK: The All Sikkim when Ramesh Pramar was ap- are soon to begin. Plans are afoot Students Association organized pointed the first coach for table to make the event really special. the first ever ASSA Table Tennis tennis in Sikkim. Till then, only The tournament is to be held be- FOR SILVER JUBILEE Tournament at Paljor Namgyal few interschool matches used to tween 10-22 October, 2003. The Indoor Stadium on 25-27 July. take place. In 1984, the White Sikkim Football Association is OF GOVERNOR’S Students from various schools in Novellia, a private table tennis also trying to rope in foreign the state participated in the three club came into being. With pa- teams to participate in this year’s day competition. The Chief Guest tronage from all quarters, White celebratory tournament. Teams GOLD CUP for the tournament was former Novellia organised various tour- from Thailand, Bangladesh and minister Thukchuk Lachungpa naments in the state. The 1985 Sri Lanka may vie for the cup the cup a record nine times. The SFA officials are also keen on along with CK Basnet, President tournament with players from along with local teams. Asean Cup team from Nepal has taken the cup a Gangtok shoot-out for the Cup. of the Sikkim Table Tennis Asso- Kalimpong, Darjeeling and other champions East Bengal may also four times and Punjab Police has “Hardly any time is left for the ciation, present as the Guest of places, marked a high for table be invited for exhibition matches won thrice. tourney to begin but if the con- Honour. tennis in Sikkim. The finals at the with local clubs. The only thing that could tractors give us the green signal Avinash Lama, a class XII stu- indoor gymnasium at Paljor Sta- Although no formal meeting prove to be a dampener this year we will surely organise the tour- dent of Tashi Namgyal Senior Sec- dium had all the 32 MLA’s along of the SFA has taken place on is that the celebrations may have nament at Paljor Stadium. Other ondary School was awarded the with the then Chief Minister in at- the issue so far, a general body to be held away from the Rajdhani wise it will have to be the best player of the tournament while tendance. meeting is to be convened very yet again. Work on the Baichung Bhutia Football Sta- Diki Yanzom, a class VIII student soon to finalise plans for the upgradation of Paljor Stadium is dium at Namchi,” said Mr. Roka. of Namchi Public School was Table tennis in Sikkim went 25th instalment of the prestig- still going on and it is unlikely to Whatever the final venue, SFA awarded the most promising player through a lean period and is again ious tournament. be ready by October. Sources at is determined to make the celebra- of the tournament in the girl’s cat- seeing a resurgence under the able Speaking to NOW!, BK the Sports & Youth Affairs De- tions an affair to remember. Soc- egory with Abel Targain, a class guidance of coach Vikrant Prasad, Roka, Senior SP, Civil Lines and partment, however, insist that they cer fans can look forward to Octo- VIII student of St. Xavier’s School, who aficionados claim has the also SFA General Secretary, said, can have the stadium “semi-com- ber, when the land of Baichung Pakyong, bagging the most prom- “perfect technique”. “Although I cannot reveal details, pleted” for the tourney should Bhutia will hopefully see some we are planning many things to SFA request it to do so. great matches being played. make the event a grand success for football in the state and for the DIRECT ADMISSION FROM GANGTOK people of Sikkim.” Still you have time to get direct admission in ‘A’ Grade Col- Incidentally, the first Gover- lege in Bangalore, Nagpur, in B.Sc (Nursing), Hotel Mgmt, nors Gold Cup was held in the B.Com, BA (Journalism), Engineering (All Streams), B.PT, state in 1979 and fittingly the cup B.DS, M.B.B.S., B.CA, M.CA Etc.. Contact to Admission Co- was lifted by the GMC team from Ordinator = Mrs. Dey, Tibet Road, Opp. Election Office, Gang- Gangtok. Over the years, how- tok - Ph: 226510 (Res.) / 94341 53355 (Mob.). or Pradip ever, it has been Mohun Bagan Kumar, Rumtek. ph: 252225. from Kolkata which has won most N.B:- Pay only Rs. 10 Thousand by Bank Draft & Reserve your seat in Presi- of the instalments, taking home dency College & Reva Institute of Science, Bangalore (Balance in College).

19 12; NOW! July 30-05 August, 2003 SPORTSSPORTS Golden Boots, new offer and Baichung is the Most Valuable For Best Flooring boot For Best Flooring Player award along with WOODEN PARQUET a NOW REPORT a U$ 5000 FLOORING, HERITAGE n ignorant “expert” on a na cash award, SURFACE TEXTURES, Ational news channel made an Baichung has also VISTA FLOOR FASHIONS, insipid comment about how inked an assignment Baichung did not have many years with Malaysian club MARBLEX SUPER VINYL of football left in him. While no Perak FC - the team that FLOORING, WALL PAPERS, one expects the Tinkitam Express bowed out to EB in the semis. SPRAY POLISH, PVC VINYL to be chugging on the soccer field Reports indicate that East FLOOR TILES & WOOD when he is pushing fifty, his train- Bengal will be “loaning” ers and real soccer experts main- Baichung to Perak to bolster the PLANK TILES tain that he is poised to peak. How team’s chances at the prestigious Baichung improves on his striker Malaysia Cup in end-August. CONTACT: skills even more will be some- Baichung, who gets into action TIKA ENTERPRISES, Near Krishi Bhawan Gate, thing worth watching, but clubs, immediately with the Federation 31 A National Highway, UMA Cottage, Tadong. 737102 at least in the Aseanic region are Cup for EB will reportedly join Ph: 231394 & 9832096499 convinced that he is the best In- Perak on a 3-month contract start- have performed as well had dia has to offer. ing 16 August, next month. Baichung not signed up with it Invited as a team to give the Baichung’s return to form af- this season. His six goals against home-sides some match practise, ter two seasons plagued by injury Philippines Army FC chalked up Baichung powered East Bengal is perhaps the most dramatic in enough points to stave off an with his record-breaking nine Indian football. Although he has elimination and win EB a quar- goals in four matches to lift the been unselfish in his praise for his terfinals berth. The team then LG Asean Club Championship team and maintained that the Ja- went on script soccer history by trophy in Djakarta last Saturday. karta performance was a team becoming the first Indian team to August 28th, Community Hall, Gangtok Apart from bagging the golden event, it is unlikely that EB would win any Asian level tourney. AMBER,AMBER, nownow withwith anotheranother MONSOON for OFFER

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