SIKKIM OBSERVER Saturday Nov 15-21, 2014

Blog:jigmenkazisikkim.blogspot.com

US favours dialogue, not independence for Tibet: Obama

Beijing, Nov 14: US President Barack Obama said he favours direct dialogue – not independence – to resolve the Tibet issue."We recognise Tibet as part of the People's Republic of China. We are not in favour of independence," Obama said shortly after announcing that US and China had reached a deal to curb greenhouse gases.

At a joint news conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, President Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping praised their landmark joint plan to curb carbon emissions, which includes targets for reduction of emissions in the United States and an ambitious first-time commitment by China to stop its emissions growing by 2030. Also highlighted were agreements on cyber security, trade and regional security.

Speaking on cooperation between the two nations Obama said, "When the US and China are able to work together effectively, the whole world benefits."

On the subject of human rights, Xi said China has made progress on human rights but said there was always room for improvement. Obama highlighted America's strong support for human rights of all people but said the US does not favour Tibetan independence from China.

This is not the first time Obama has said the US does not support Tibetan independence. On 21 February 2014, President Obama met with His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Washington DC, despite objections from China. According to a statement from the White House, Obama reiterated that the US position is that Tibet is part of the People's Republic of China and the United States does not support Tibet independence, Tibet Post reported.

Obama stressed that he encourages direct dialogue to resolve long-standing differences and that a dialogue that gets results for China and Tibetans would be positive.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama told Obama in February that he is not seeking independence for Tibet and hopes that dialogue between his representatives and the Chinese government will resume. Both agreed on the importance of a positive and constructive relationship between the United States and China.

Arms haul in Assam points to new Gorkha militant outfit

Darjeeling, Nov 14: A huge cache of arms and ammunition, meant to be supplied to a newly formed underground outfit of the Gorkhas in Darjeeling was seized in Assam on Saturday. Two people have been arrested in this connection.

They have been identified as Ganesh Chettri, resident of Baksa district of Assam, and Umesh Kami. The two allegedly have links with the National Socialist Council of Nagaland.

The discovery has led to increase in surprise checks along the West Bengal border, especially in the districts of Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar. Police are conducting surprise checks at all major thoroughfares, bus stands and other transit points here, The Hindustan Times reported.

The seizure comes at a time when the state is already battling cross border terrorism from Bangladesh and has become a hub for terrorist cells.

A team of the West Bengal police and intelligence agencies has reached Assam and is interrogating the arrested accused. “They were arrested on Sunday and have been charged under relevant sections of the Arms Act and the Indian Penal Code. They are being interrogated and will be produced at the Bongaigaon Chief Judicial Magistrate Court in Assam on Monday,” Ranjan Bhuiyan, Superintendent of Police, Chirang, said. The police are expected to plead for their custody.

On the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday, a vehicle bearing a Darjeeling number plate (WB74A 4788) was intercepted in Chirang district of Assam while on its way from Dimapur in Nagaland to West Bengal. A routine search by the police led to the discovery of the cache of arms and ammunition.

The seized cache includes highly sophisticated M16 Rifle, seven pistols, including 0.32 and 9mm, 300 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 80 rounds of AK47 ammunition, 198 rounds of M16 ammunition and 16 rounds of bullets for 0.32 pistol.

Citation on Ganju Lama gate wrong: Statesman

Gangtok, Nov 14: Ningthoukhong, where the Late Ganju Lama of the 7^th Gorkha Rifle, who won the coveted Victoria Cross for bravery while battling the Japanese during the 2^nd World War, is not in Burma/Myanmar but located in Manipur.

The citation on Ganju Lama’s plaques (English and Hindi) at the Ganju Lama Dwar (gate) here have erroneously shown Ningthoukhong as part of Burma, Yambem Laba, Manipur-based Special Correspondent of The Statesman, has said in an article in the newspaper (Nov 10, 2014).

The citation reads: “On 12^th Jun 1944, the Japanese put down an intense artillery barrage lasing an hour on own positions north of the village Mingthoukhong in Burma.”

    “It is also not known whether Sikkim chief minister Pawan Chamling, who inaugurated the gate on 1 November 2013, read what was written on the plaque. It was like describing Amritsar to be in Pakistan. Ningthoukhong is just 30 km south of Manipur’s capital, Imphal, on the way to Loktak Lake,” the article said.

The citation on the plaques describe how “on 12 June 1944, Rifleman Ganju Lama of the 7th Gorkha Rifles, thwarted a major Japanese artillery assault by five medium tanks that overran a number of British/Allied bunkers at Ningthoukhong where the Gorkha soldiers also fought hand to hand with their khukris and the Japanese wielding samurai swords.

It goes on to describe how Ganju Lama, in spite of having a broken wrist and wounded, took the initiative, without regard for his own personal safety and knocked out two Japanese tanks with his projectile infantry anti-tank gun. He continued to fire on the Japanese, killing a number of them and maiming others, before he was evacuated. And for this he was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest honour for valour beyond the call of duty, awarded by the British Crown to soldiers serving under it,” the Statesman article said

Making Sikkim Subject Certificate mandatory will safeguard ‘distinct identity’, check influx: Sangha MLA

Gangtok, Nov 14: Responding positively to the Chamling Government’s decision to safeguard the rights and interests of bonafide Sikkimese possessing Sikkim Subject Certificates, Sangha MLA Sonam Lama said such steps would go a long way in safeguarding Sikkim’s ‘distinct identity within the Union’ and checking influx.

In a press statement, Lama, who is one of the ten legislators of the Opposition Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) said “I congratulate and thank the present government” for making it mandatory the production of Sikkim Subject Certificate (SSC) or Certificate of Identification (CoI) by Sikkimese women seeking to avail of certain benefits from the government.

During a recent meeting of the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) Legislature Party it was

decided that SSC or CoI be made mandatory for those who wish to get government jobs, trade

licenses and government benefits.

It was also decided CoI would be issued only to girls/women born in Sikkim marrying Sikkimese and not to women from outside the State marrying Sikkimese men.

The decision by the ruling party to introduce work permit system for non-Sikkimese working in the State has been welcomed by the Sikkim National People’s Party (SNPP).

SNPP President Biraj Adhikari said his party not only “endorses the government’s effort” but “expects concrete rules to implement this initiative at the earliest.”

Tibetans in India entitled for central, state welfare schemes: Gyari

Gangtok, Nov 14: The Home Minister of the Tibetan exiled-government Dolma Gyari has welcomed the Centre’s recent decision to entitle Tibetans residing in India to become beneficiries           

In what is considered to be a landmark decision, Government of India recently formalised the Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy 2014.

Gyari, who was here recently for a women’s empowerment function, said she received a copy of 7-paged document concerning the policy.

The Tibetan Rehabilitation policy makes clear the entitlements of Tibetans relating to their welfare in India. The guidelines include the extension of land lease agreements, and the benefits available to the Tibetans under central and state government welfare schemes. The policy also grants Tibetans the right to undertake economic activity and pursue any job for which they are professionally qualified; these can include nursing, engineering, accounting, medicine, etc.

There are over 100,000 Tibetans living in India and for the first time the Indian Election Commission allowed India-born Tibetans to participate in the general election this year, and has given them the right to apply for an Indian passport.

Chogyal rule, ‘golden era’: old settlers

“Namgyal Dynasty gave us respect, security”

Gangtok, Nov 14: Indian-origin old settlers of the former kingdom of Sikkim have unanimously

acknowledged the pre-merger Chogyal era as the ‘golden era’ of Sikkim.

Paying rich tributes to the youngest and the only son of Chogyal Sir Tashi Namgyal, Prince Jigdal Tsewang Namgyal, who passed away here on October 30 at the age of 86, the Sikkim Chamber of Commerce, during its condolence meeting said the members recalled the Chogyal era as the ‘golden era’.

RC Mundra, President of the Association of Old Settlers of Sikkim (AOSOS), in a press release said members of the Association, who have been living in Sikkim since 1880, “expressed deep grief” on the demise of the former Prince.

“Several members recalled the golden time of the Namgyal Dynasty,” the release said and added, “We are indebted to the Namgyal Dynasty for giving us respect, affection and full security during their regime.”

As a mark of respect the business community closed down all business establishments in the capital and other parts of the State on the funeral day, November 5. (see OBITUARY on page 4)

Editorial

WELCOME  INITIATIVE

Benefits For Tibetans

After inviting the exiled Tibetan Prime Minister Lobsang Sangay to attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s oath-taking ceremony in New Delhi recently the Modi Government has now allowed Tibetan refugees in India to become beneficiaries of various welfare schemes in the country. While this will not only help the economic condition of the one lac plus Tibetan refugee residing in India the new initiative will also go a long way in giving a sense of security and belonging to the Tibetans, who left their homeland after the Chinese occupation of Tibet in latter part of 1950s.

So far majority of Tibetans residing in various settlements in the country rely on themselves, the exiled government and the international community for their livelihood. The new policy of the Indian Government,  aimed at aiding their economic condition is, therefore, a big bonus. It has come at a time when the Tibetan refugees are legally permitted to become Indian citizens. The BJP has always been sympathetic to the Tibetans and their cause and its concerns for them have now taken a tangible shape. This indeed is a welcome step in the right direction.

Korean, Thai delegates visit Sikkim

    Former Thai Minister Nalinee Taveesin (centre) at Enchay monastery, Gangtok, recently.

Gangtok,  Nov 14: Appreciating and congratulating the successful X-Himalayan Expedition 2014 led by well South Korean adventurer Junghun Park that culminated in Sikkim last month, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Ugen T. Gyatso hosted a dinner for the expedition team here at the Mayfair Resorts.

The X-Himalaya expedition after completing their expeditions through the mountainous terrains of Pakistan, Tibet and Nepal, started their expedition here in Sikkim from 10 October 2014.

A team of climbers, film crew for documentation and a few friends, the expedition led by team Leader Junghun Park summitted Mt. Tingchingkhang while at the same time paragliding atop eastern and Sikkim Himalayas, an official release said.

The team included four South Koreans with Junghun Park as the team leader. The others included Dehea Park, Jaemjn An, Hyun Jung Kim and Sikkimese adventurer and paraglider Raju Rai.

The X-expedition included trekking, mountain biking, climbing and paragliding.

Junghun Park the team leader is a world renowned alpinist and is not new to Sikkim. The Minister lauded the efforts of the team member in promoting adventure, an integral part of tourism.

Gyatso who also holds the portfolio of trade and commerce over an extended dinner invitation also hosted the Thai trade, commerce and tourism delegation led by Dr. Nalinee Taveesin, former Minister and permanent representative attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, Royal Government of Thailand.

The delegation had reached Gangtok after touring Darjeeling. During the cordial interaction between the Thai delegates and Sikkim officials, closer ties between Thailand and Sikkim in trade, commerce and tourism were discussed and to take the efforts to the next level as there was already an exchange of tourism between the two for several years including pilgrimage tourism which was gradually growing over the years. The delegation included Thai trade and commerce captains as well as entrepreneurs and members from the Trade and Commerce Ministry.

Taveesin, who has a very impressive educational background with several degrees from the USA, including one from the prestigious Harvard University and Edward S. Mason Fellow of Harvard Kennedy School of Government, also studied in Darjeeling (Mt Hermon School).

NIT director Densapa recovering from septicemia attack

(Right) Densapa (left) at NIT, Gangtok. (file pix)

Gangtok, Nov 14: The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (NIT) Director Tashi Densapa, who was admitted to a hospital in Delhi recently, has regained his health and is recovering.

Densapa suffered from a sudden and severe attack of septicemia and was rushed to Delhi after a brief medical check-up in Siliguri in September.

The former secretary is likely to return home next month for a while, sources said.

Family sources said Densapa is now out of danger and is gradually regaining his health. He is said to be still very weak.

Septicemia, formerly called blood poisoning, is an infection caused by the presence of bacteria in the blood. The onset of septicemia is signaled by a high fever, chills, weakness, and excessive sweating, followed by a decrease in blood pressure.

Chemicals released into the blood to fight infection trigger widespread inflammation. Inflammation may result in organ damage. Blood clotting during sepsis reduces blood flow to limbs and internal organs, depriving them of nutrients and oxygen. In severe cases, one or more organs fail.

 In the worst cases, infection leads to a life-threatening drop in blood pressure, called septic shock. This can quickly lead to the failure of several organs -- lungs, kidneys, and liver -- causing death.

Parliamentary panel visits Nathula

Gangtok,  Nov 14: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence led by former Uttarakhand chief minister BC Khanduri visited the Indo-China border trade post at Nathula in east Sikkimlast month.

He was accompanied by former Prime Minister HG Deve Gowda and Sikkim Rajya Sabha MP Hishey Lachungpa.

The Committee comprises of nine members from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha and senior officials of the Committee, Defence Ministry.

The team inspected the road and other infrastructure to Nathula along the Indo-China border.

The visit comes in view of the recent decision of the Centre to open Nathula for pilgrims to travel to Mt. Kailash.

OBITUARY Gyalsey Kushon Jigdal Tsewang Namgyal

Sikkim missed the touch of a brilliant mind

By TENZIN C. TASHI

Denjong Gyalsey Kushon (Younger Sikkimese Prince) Jigdal Tsewang Namgyal was born on August 23, 1928 at the Palace, Gangtok. He was the youngest son of Their Highnesses, the 11^th Denjong Chogyal Tashi Namgyal and Maharani Kunzang Dechhen Tshomo Namgyal. Following his demise on October 30, 2014 at the age of 86, perhaps it is the end of a genteel era of Sikkim’s history.

Gyalsey JT Namgyal was affectionately known as Gyalsey Georgela. Sikkim was then under British rule, and the Sikkimese royal family had cordial relations with the British Political Officer for Sikkim, Bhutan and Tibet who was based in Gangtok. The strong British influence - P.O. Charles Bell personally groomed his father, Chogyal Tashi Namgyal, to take over the reins of the administration of the kingdom - explained why the royal children had British nicknames.

Gyalsey Georgela received a fine western education at the most prestigious of educational institutions in India and abroad: St. Joseph’s College, Darjeeling; Bishop Cotton School, Shimla; St. Stephen’s College, Delhi; and Christ Church College, University of Oxford. He was a brilliant student and proved his academic genius by consistently topping his class. He topped St. Stephens where he majored in History Honours. He was only 17 years when he graduated from college. He earned further laurels by making it to the elite Christ Church College at the University of Oxford.

    The last journey begins at Late Prince's residence, Tashi Gartsel, Gangtok.

It is from his letters sent home from Bishop Cotton School to his father that much of his innate goodness of nature emerges. These are still carefully preserved in the Palace files. He was a conscientious child, always applying himself diligently to his school work; this discipline, coupled with his natural intelligence, always resulted in high marks and glowing testimonials from his tutors. The young prince always made it a point to reassure his father that he was working hard and topping the class and hoped it pleased his royal father. His many report cards show that he was equally adept at all the many subjects he studied.

He was also a talented artist, much like Chogyal Tashi Namgyal, and always signed off every letter home with a pencil sketch as varied as two boxers or a horse. Additionally, he was a fine equestrian and enjoyed horse-riding; there is a yellowed clipping from a Shimla newspaper tucked away in the Palace files announcing that the Prince of Sikkim had won an award for his excellent horsemanship.

Prince Jigme Namgyal

Although his elder brothers, Crown Prince Kunzang Cholay Namgyal aka Paljor Namgyal and Prince Palden Thondup Namgyal were also studying at Bishop’s concurrently, they were 7 and 5 years older to him respectively.  Like typical elder brothers, they seem to have considered their young brother something of an impatience and were glad, they wrote, that every weekend, ‘George has again been invited to his friend’s home, and we have not even seen his face.’ On his part, young Georgela, shy and academically inclined, apparently ran away when he saw his older and more physical brothers. Interestingly, while the two older Princes routinely wrote home to their father asking him to send more money for festivals and birthdays, it was young Georgela who stoically averred that he still had money left over and would not need more to be sent. This despite getting the princely sum of five rupees to his brothers’ fifteen or twenty.

Following the untimely demise of Crown Prince Paljor in WWII in 1941, 

Princess Gawa Namgyal and Princess Hope Leezum Namgyal

Palden Thondup Namgyal became the heir apparent and Georgela was being groomed to assist him in the administration of the kingdom. Upon completing his studies in England and returning home, Georgela became the first Development Commissioner of Sikkim. 

Prince Palden Namgyal

Mr. K.C. Pradhan, former Chief Secretary of Sikkim, reminisces:  ‘My immediate reflection of him was Dewan Rustomji in his grey bakhu standing on top of the stairs of lower Secretariat waiting for Georgela and the latter walking briskly up the stairs. Dewan Rustomji had made it a point to give him a lift to go to the Palace for lunch every working day. He was Development Commissioner then and his office was located in the same floor along with Forest and Agriculture. He was brilliant and we were often told his grasp of subjects and notations in files were superb, besides which he was a voracious reader. Dewan Rustomji loved him and was keen he should get fully involved in Sikkim administration.’

Indifferent health issues cut short Gyalsey Georgela’s career in the administration. His mother decided it was time he married. She threw a garden party at ‘Arunachal’, the Kalimpong house of his sister, Princess Pema Tsedeun Yabshi- Pheunkhang, where she had invited about 10-12 prospective brides for him. Gyalsey Georgela dutifully checked out all the young ladies but made no comment. It was only when they had returned home to Sikkim that he announced his choice, the beautiful young daughter, Sonam Yangchenla aka Soyangla, of the aristocratic Tibetan family of Namseling.

Princess Hope L. Namgyal

The Maharani was a little puzzled that he had chosen someone so young, 18 years his junior. But such is what we Sikkimese call ‘thamzi.’ After getting engaged in 1960, Gyalsey Georgela and Lhacham Soyangla were married in 1961. They had two children in quick succession, son Jigmela in 1962 and daughter Gawala in 1964. Gyalsey Georgela was plagued by health issues for much of his subsequent life. It was thamzi that he chose Lhacham Soyangla as she is the true embodiment of the title ‘Lhacham’ which means heavenly consort. Her infinite patience, unwavering commitment and lifelong dedication to her late husband is the stuff legends are made of. It was only because of her steadfast presence and staunch devotion that the Prince lived so long and defeated so many bouts of illness that required hospitalisation.

Due to his health issues, Gyalsey Georgela was often confined to bed rest and hence led a quiet retired life in his Development Area residence, Tashi Gartsel. Lhacham Kusho recollects, ‘He was such a nice, kind man. He never harmed anyone. He never spoke ill of anyone.’ His daughter Gawa Yangchenla avers that he was a kind and compassionate father and much loved and adored by his grandchildren. When he was well, he used to joke with them. Even when ill, he was affectionate and caring. Those that knew the departed Prince vouch that he was always unfailingly courteous and large-hearted.

In true Buddhist tradition, Gyalsey Georgela thus left behind this lasting legacy of kindness and compassion. He touched the hearts of all who knew him and loved him.

Danny Denzongpa

Wednesday, November 5, is the day of his funeral. The Government of Sikkim has declared it a state holiday. His mortal remains will be consigned to the flames on the slopes of the Lukshyama royal crematorium where all the members of the Namgyal dynasty have traditionally been cremated. And his gentle legacy will reverberate through every Sikkimese heart that beats there and waft into collective consciousness.

 (Tenzin C. Tashi is a Senior Researcher at the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (NIT), Sikkim)

SIKKIM GIVES BEFITTING FAREWELL TO PRINCE JIGDAL TSEWANG NAMGYAL

 ON HIS LAST JOURNEY

Homage to Symbol of Sikkim’s ‘golden era’

The kubur of Late Denjong Gyalsey Kusho, Prince Jigdal Tshewang Namgyal of Sikkim, the youngest and the only surviving son of Maharaja Sir Tashi Namgyal (KCSI, KCIE - 1914-1963), the 11^th Chogyal of Sikkim, bearing the Sikkim national flag, passes through (Nov 5, 2014) three prominent power-points in the former Kingdom: White Hall, Nehru’s Bust, and Mintokgang, Chief Minister’s official residence.

White Hall was built in the memory of John Claude White, British India’s first Political Officer (1889-1908) in Sikkim, during whose rule Sikkim gradually came under British  domination, paving way for the kingdom’s ultimate absorption into the Indian Union in 1975.

While the bust of India’s first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was placed on this route after Sikkim’s ‘merger’ in 1975, Mintokgang was used as the official residence of the Indian Chief Executive, who wielded more power in Sikkim than the Chogyal during the Indian takeover in early 1970s. The Palace, situated in the same location across the Ridge Park, is about 300 metres south of Mintokgang.

The funeral day was declared a State holiday by the Chamling Government. The old business community, while declaring the Chogyals’ rule Sikkim’s ‘golden era’, closed down all business establishments in Gangtok and elsewhere in the State as a mark of respect to the departed soul. Prominent members of Sikkim’s political-administrative setup, including Chief Minister Pawan Chamling, Ministers, Chief Secretary R. Ongmu, were present at the funeral.

Bollywood actor Danny Denzongpa, the Late Prince’s son-in-law, and Bhutan’s model-turned-actor Kelly Dorji, a member of Bhutan’s royal family, were also present at the funeral procession. Prime Minister of the Tibetan exiled government Lobsang Sangay also paid his last respects to the departed soul at Tashi Gartsel, residence of the Late Prince in Gangtok.

Prince Jigdal Tsewang Namgyal may have lived a quiet life; his death, however, brought him back into the limelight and reminded us of who we are, what happened to us and where we are heading.

Sikkim school team wins East Zone basketball tourney

Gangtok, Nov 14: Sikkim’s Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) for Scheduled Tribe, Gangyap, West Sikkim, has won the Under 19 East Zone Basketball Cluster 1 Championship (CBSE).

The EMRS basketball team has just returned from Guwahati after participating in the CBSE Under 19 East Zone Basketball Cluster 1 Championship that took place from the 25th – 27th of this month. EMRS had taken both the boys as well as the girls teams for basketball, Principal-cum-coach Sidharth Yonzone said.

The boys beat Gurukool School, Guwahati, in their 1st game but lost to St. Francis, Narangi in the quarter final game but put up a brave contesting fight led by their captain Pema Chewang of class XI.

On the other hand, the girls’ basketball team which had been champions for the last 4 years were playing their first CBSE tournament without 8 seniors who have passed out from school earlier this year. Led by Tshering Eden Bhutia (XII) & Vice Captain Diki Doma Bhutia (XII), the duo made sure that EMRS retained their 5th championship as in as many years.

They played Axel Public School in the quarter finals after being awarded a bye in the first round and beat them 59 -02 in a shortened game.

In the semi-finals, they demolished Delhi Public School, Guwahati 87 -06 with Tshering Eden scoring 30 and Diki scoring 26.

They faced St. Francis in the finals. St. Francis had earlier defeated the home team MBRS by some 40 points and had promised a contesting finals. But the girls of Gangyap just swept through the finals thrashing them, 86 – 04 with Tshering Eden scoring 35 and Diki scoring 34.

The team has now qualified for the Nationals which is to be held in the first week of December in Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh.

Schools from Nagaland, Meghalaya and Assam had taken part in this CBSE Cluster 1 meet.

SIKKIM  GIVES GRAND FAREWELL TO PRINCE JIGDAL TSEWANG NAMGYAL ON HIS LAST JOURNEY

The kubur of Late Denjong Gyalsey Kusho, Prince Jigdal Tshewang Namgyal of Sikkim, the youngest and the only surviving son of Maharaja Sir Tashi Namgyal (KCSI, KCIE -1914-1963), the 11^th Chogyal of Sikkim, bearing the Sikkim national flag, passes through (Nov 5, 2014) three prominent power-points in the former Kingdom: White Hall, Nehru’s Bust, and Mintokgang, Chief Minister’s official residence.

White Hall was built in the memory of John Claude White, British India’s first Political Officer (1889-1908) in Sikkim, during whose rule Sikkim gradually came under British  domination, paving way for the kingdom’s ultimate absorption into the Indian Union in 1975.

While the bust of India’s first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was placed on this route after Sikkim’s ‘merger’ in 1975, Mintokgang was used as the official residence of the Indian Chief Executive, who wielded more power in Sikkim than the Chogyal during the Indian takeover in early 1970s. The Palace, situated in the same location across the Ridge Park, is about 300 metres south of Mintokgang.

The funeral day was declared a State holiday by the Chamling Government. The old business community, while declaring the Chogyals’ rule Sikkim’s ‘golden era’, closed down all business establishments in Gangtok and elsewhere in the State as a mark of respect to the departed soul. Prominent members of Sikkim’s political-administrative setup, including Chief Minister Pawan Chamling, Ministers, Chief Secretary R. Ongmu, were present during the funeral.

Prince Jigdal Tsewang Namgyal may have lived a quiet life; his death, however, brought him back to limelight and reminded us of who we are, what happened to us and our uncertain future. 

HIMALAYAN GUARDIAN     Oct 18-24, 2014

Blog:jigmenkazisikkim.blogspot.com

Don't threaten us, India tells China on Arunachal

Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir integral parts of India: Sushma Swaraj

New Delhi, Oct 17: Nobody should "threaten or warn India," said Home Minister Rajnath Singh after China objected to reported plans by India to build a 2,000-km long road along the border in Arunachal Pradesh.

"India has grown in strength. Both sides should resolve the border issue through dialogue," said the Home Minister yesterday.  Reacting to reports of the new road, China asked Delhi on Wednesday not to "further complicate" the dispute over the border.

"China has already spread their network of roads and rail network near the border. Whatever we make on our territory should not be a concern of China," said an unnamed official in the Home Ministry's border management department to news agency Reuters.

He was quoted as saying that the ministry was seeking cabinet approval for the road in Arunachal Pradesh and had preliminary support from the Prime Minister's Office.

"Before the border problem is solved, we hope the Indian side will not take any action that could further complicate the relevant issue, so as to preserve the current situation of peace and stability in the border area," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei.

In September, the government eased environmental and other curbs on building roads and military facilities within 100 km of the border in Arunachal Pradesh to hasten the construction of some 6,000 km of roads.

India is concerned about China's development of airports and extensive road and railway networks in Tibet, which can give Beijing the ability to mobilize troops quickly along the border.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir are "integral and inalienable" parts of India and this has been clearly conveyed to China.

"The fact that Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir are integral and inalienable parts of India has been clearly conveyed to the Chinese side on several occasions, including at the highest level," Swaraj said in a letter to Congress MP Mullappally Ramachandran, who had voiced his concern over distribution of controversial maps by China to its military. The map showed Arunachal as part of China.

"China disputes the international boundary between India and China. In the eastern sector, China claims approximately 90,000 sq kms of Indian territory in the state of Arunachal Pradesh," Swaraj told Ramachandran in the letter.

PM Modi meets top military officers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with air force chief Arup Raha, navy chief DK Joshi,defense minister Arun Jaitley, and army chief Dalbir Singh Suhag, before attending the Combined Commanders Conference in New Delhi on Friday. (Pix:AP)

New Delhi, Oct 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met top military officers at the defence ministry War Room here on Friday, at a time when tension continues along the border with both China and Pakistan.

The Combined Commanders' Conference is the first meeting of the Prime Minister with all top commanders, including the three service chiefs, IANS reported.

The service chiefs are expected to give elaborate presentations to the PM on the security scenario.

Top sources in the defence ministry said the recent ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir and transgressions by China in the northeast will be in the focus during the conference.

Other issues like prepardeness of the forces and threat perceptions will also be discussed.

Burma media body oppose ban on Hakha Post

Yangon, Oct 17: The Journalists’ Forum Assam (JFA) has expressed serious concern over the ban on a local newspaper by the province government of Chin in western Burma (Myanmar) and urged the Union government in Naypyidaw to allow the regular publication of the Hakha Post Newspaper.

Burma News International (BNI), an umbrella body of various progressive Burmese media outlets, said in a recent statement that the authorities had decided to ban the regional biweekly Hakha Post, which was published from the capital of Chin province, which is adjacent to India’s Manipur and Mizoram States, Asian Correspondent reported.

“BNI has learnt that since 29th September the Chin State government has temporarily forbidden publication of the Chin (Lai) language newspaper the Hakha Post Newspaper,” said the statement adding that the  district authority called the editor of Hakha Post and informed him about the decision of Chin government (read State’s chief minister Hung Ngai).

The Hakha Post is one of over 20 local newspapers with limited circulations in the capital Hakha and the surrounding areas of the underdeveloped province of Burma. Sparsely settled, the mountainous province has a population of around half a million, most of them are Christian Chin ethnic nationals.

According to the Chin government the newspaper would not be allowed to publish until it obtains a legal publishing permit. BNI, while showing faith in the transition of Burma from a military dictatorship to a multiparty democracy, urged the highest authorities "to allow full access to journalists and give them freedoms and rights".

"There has been a lack of news reporting for many years, especially from ethnic regions. The government has a responsibility to ensure ethnic people receive news and information. Moreover the government must stop this sort of ban on free speech and ensure everyone has proper access to news", added the BNI statement.

Supporting the BNI initiative, the northeast India based media people’s forum  JFA also appealed to the Burma President Thein Sein to look into the matter asking the Chin government to withdraw the ban on the newspaper immediately.

“Banning a regional newspaper will not serve any purpose to the Burmese authorities except spreading a negative impression about the regime and the nation as a whole,” said a JFA statement issued by its president Rupam Barua and secretary Nava Thakuria.

The JFA, which has been consistently supporting the progressive media activists of Burma, also appealed to the pro-democracy Burmese icon Aung San Suu Kyi to take personal initiative to resolve the matter.

The forum strongly argued that if the Southeast Asian nation has truly adopted democracy the people in power there must stop their unwelcome opposition to the media.

Bhutan King  & Queen visit Varanasi

Varanasi, Oct 17: Bhutan king Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck along with his wife Jetsun Pema offered prayers at the Kashi Vishwanath temple and attended the famous Ganga aarti Dashashwamedh ghat, an official said in Varanasi.

The Bhutan royal also visited Sarnath, an important pilgrimage destination for Buddhists.

Autumn reunion for Hermonites in Thimphu

Thimphu, Oct 17: The Hermonites, alumni of Darjeeling’s Mt. Hermon School, from all over India, Nepal, Netherlands, Thailand and Australia arrived here last week for a three-day reunion during which they visited Paro and Punakha.

Members of the Bhutan Hermonites Association led by Home Secretary Tshering Dorji and Sonam Gyaltsen (Taki) organised the reunion. Dheera Sujan, who came all the way from the Netherlands, says she had a wonderful time and wants to come back again.

The reunion was followed by two reunions of the Hermonites in Gangtok and Kathmandu in Sept-Oct. While the 1969 batch of Hermonites are expected to meet in Darjeeling early next month the Kalimpong Hermonites are expected to celebrate the 5^th anniversary of their alumni body on Oct 31.

Calcutta Hermonites are coming in a big way to their alma mater in December. They have big plans for the school’s rejuvenation. This is likely to be followed up by the formation of the North East Hermonite Association (NEHA) in Imphal in January, 2015.

Bhutan royals grace Lawrence School celebrations

“This place is special to me as I met the queen for the first time here”

Bhutan king Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck gives awards to students during Founder’s Day celebration of Lawrence School at Sanawar on October 4. (Left)

Shimla, Oct 17: The three-day 167th Founder’s Day Celebrations of the Lawrence School Sanawar, founded in 1847, concluded on October 4 with the ceremony of trooping the school flag and an NCC Parade by the students. Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk, the King of Bhutan and his wife Jetsun Pema who is an alumnus of the school were the chief guests on the occasion.

Lt General KJ Singh, GOC-in-C Western Command and his wife Anita Singh were the guests of honour.

Expressing gratitude and addressing the students, the King shared his moment of joy to visit his queen’s school. “This place is special to me as this is here, where I met the queen for the first time. I am thankful to this school for giving her a wonderful education,” aid Jigme Khesar.

He further added, “I am happy to be here in the school, it is an extraordinary establishment. Many Bhutanese students come to Indian Institutes to take quality education, only to return with economic development. India has contributed a lot by promoting education in Bhutan. It is a bedrock of the Indo-Bhutanese friendship.”

Lawrence School, Sanawar, Himachal Pradesh (Left)

Not only this, but the King also urged the students to safeguard their culture and spiritual heritage. “We must learn about the world we live in, we must invest the best in medicine and technology. But it is equally imperative to protect our values and cultural heritage,” he added.

The school headmaster Praveen Vasisht read out the school annual report which included the achievements of the school in the allied fields of academics, sports, cultural and extra-curricular activities. Besides healthy exchange programmes, the school also made its presence felt in Round Square activities and community service. The chief guest felicitated the staff and the students on the occasion and later took a round of the school with his wife, who had passed out from school in 2008.

As the old batch mates shared their cherished experiences and fond memories of school, celebrities like Pooja Bedi, former Bollywood actress and television talk show host along with Omar Farooq Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir representing the batch of 1989 were also present during the occasion. All the old Sanawarians, at the end planted saplings near the chapel in the memory of their departed batch mates.

Himachal apple growers doing good business

State’s revenue from apples is over Rs 3,500 cr per annum

Shimla, Oct 17: Apple growers in Himachal Pradesh have all the reasons to celebrate as apple business in the State has gone up by Rs. 1,000 crore this year, despite low production.

The local markets in Narkanda, Shimla, Dhali, Solan and Parwanoo in the State are particularly doing well, as the revenue generated has shot up to Rs. 4,500 crore from Rs. 3,500 crore last year.

Despite low apple production this year, the apple growers have no reason to complain due to the flourishing business. On an average, one box of apples costs about Rs. 1,000 but this year the price has been varying from Rs. 1,000 to 2,200 per box, ANI  reported.

"The economy of thousands of people here depends on the apple business, which generates over Rs 3,500 crore revenue for the people in the State. This year, Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a good apple business, adding more to the economy of the state," said trader Ram Mohan.

The growth in apple business is benefiting the state each year. We have done a good business, although, there has been a comparatively low production. However, farmers have grown apples of different varieties such as Royal Delicious, Golden, and Grimy this year," said Mohinder Satan, vice chairman Himachal Pradesh APMC Fruit Market in Shimla.

Editorial

‘LOOK EAST’

Settle Issues First

India’s ‘Look East’ and South East Asia’s ‘Look West’ policy for economic rejuvenation of the region cannot fully be achieved if the problems and prospects of the tribals of the region, who have long been ignored by the mainstream, continue to be ignored. Between the corrupt politicians/bureaucrats and gun-wielding insurgent groups in this region the ordinary people, by and large, face a bleak future. This must come to an end fast.

Democracy is yet to fully return to Burma but New Delhi, even under the new dispensation, has failed to take the initiative in the Northeast. Did Prime Minister Narendra Modi consult the stakeholders in Sikkim when he and Chinese President Xi Jinping decided to open the Nathula route for pilgrims? Security ultimately depends on the trust and confidence of the people, not merely acquisition of territory as is the case in Sikkim. Much is also at stake in Nagaland where the Naga issue still remains unresolved even when the people, including the NSCM (IM) and the State Government, are keen on further talks to resolve the issue. Look within before you look anywhere – East or West – and solve the pending issues at an early date.

Informal talks on for Dalai Lama’s return to Tibet

The Dalai Lama (centre) shares a moment with Iranian Nobel Peace laureate Shirin Ebadi (right) as fellow laureate Jody Williams looks on.

The Dalai Lama has said informal talks are continuing with the Chinese about a possible return to his homeland of Tibet, if only for a visit, and he has cautiously praised Chinese President Xi Jinping as a realist.

The Dalai Lama, 79, sat down for a brief interview in his temple in the north Indian town of Dharamsala before a celebration of the 25th anniversary of his Nobel peace prize, after a month of media speculation of a thaw between the exiled leader and the Chinese government.

The two sides have sparred for years over the future of Tibet. The Dalai Lama argues for autonomy for the Himalayan region he fled in 1959, while the Chinese accuse him of being a separatist. Just this week, another gathering of Nobel winners was cancelled in South Africa after that country wouldn't give the Dalai Lama a visa, reportedly under pressure from China.

Meanwhile, the Chinese have continued to increase their control over the Tibetan region, with a new railway line opening last month that will give greater access to its rich natural resources. Foreign travel is still greatly restricted. And more than 130 people have self-immolated to protest the Dalai Lama's exile, and call for freedom for Tibet, since 2009, including two during Mr Xi's recent visit to New Delhi.

Despite the recent tensions, speculation about improved relations between China and the Dalai Lama have been fuelled by remarks given by a Chinese Communist Party undersecretary who said discussions on the spiritual leader's return to his homeland were underway. In September, a popular Chinese website briefly displayed an article that said the Dalai Lama might return for a visit to a Buddhist shrine and meet party leaders.

The Dalai Lama also contributed to the media hubbub, praising Mr Xi as more "realistic" and "open-minded" than his predecessors while Mr Xi was on a high-profile trip to India in September. On Thursday, the Dalai Lama again praised Mr Xi for having "courageously tackled" the problem of government corruption. But he voiced concern over China's imprisonment of dissidents.

"The thing to say is that he's approached these problems more realistically," than other leaders in the past, the Dalai Lama said of Mr Xi. The Chinese leader's past praise of the Buddhist faith has also given the Dalai Lama hope they could find common ground.

"This is something new for a Communist Party leader to say something about spirituality," the Dalai Lama noted. "We'll see. I have some optimistic views. Still too early to say."

Some Tibet experts have scoffed at reports about an improvement in the relationship between China and the Dalai Lama, noting that China's strategy has long been to wait until the Dalai Lama dies to resolve the Tibet issue - as well as that of the holy man's successor. The Dalai Lama has said that his successor should be chosen by the Tibetan people, a desire which, if not honoured by the Chinese government, could result in widespread unrest.

The Dalai Lama and Tibet's government-in-exile launched a high-profile campaign in June to promote his "Middle Way Approach", which advocates for greater autonomy for Tibet but not complete independence. But finding complete support in the fractious Tibetan community around the hilly Indian town of Dharamsala has been difficult, according to Lobsang Sangay, the prime minister of Tibet's government in exile. Most younger activists from the Tibetan Youth Congress and others continue to call for independence for Tibet. (The Sydney Morning Herald)

Arunachal to provide inner line permit for Rajdhani passengers

Itanagar, Oct 17:  Arunachal Pradesh is planning to provide ILP (inner line permit) on arrival of the Rajdhani passengers and have proper online ILP service.

Clarifying the 'misunderstanding' on ILP issue for the Rajdhani passengers, state Chief Secretary Ramesh Negi in a statement said, "What we intend is to have proper online ILP service and provide on-arrival ILP, just like on-arrival visa facility.

The CS further said that persons having valid Rajdhani train ticket and proper proof of Indian domicile will be able to avail such facilities. Arunachal Pradesh is planning to provide ILP on arrival of the Rajdhani passengers and have proper online ILP service. Tourism Secretary Joram Beda is working out details in this regard, he added.

The Indian Railways is contemplating to introduce Rajdhani Express service between New Delhi and Naharlagun from November next.

SIKKIM OBSERVER Saturday Oct 11-17, 2014

Blog: jigmenkazisikkim.blogspot.com

Sang offering to Sikkim’s Guardian Deities during the recent annual Pang Lhabsol celebrations at the Tsuklakhang Monastery, Gangtok.

Modi unlikely to meet NSCN-IM leaders

New Delhi, Oct 10: In what may not go down well with the NSCN-IM leaders, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to meet the Naga leaders and instead the Home Ministry has been told that negotiations will take place only at the level of the Central interlocutor RN Ravi, highly placed sources said.

The move by the Modi Government may come as a surprise because the NSCN leaders have as a convention, called on the Prime Ministers in the past.

NSCN-IM top leaders Isak Chisi Swu and Th Muivah have sent feelers several times for a meeting with Modi, The Sangai Express and Assam Tribune reported. However, there has been no response from the Government to these feelers.

The two NSCN-IM leaders were politely informed that they should hold talks with the Government of India's interlocutor RN Ravi, who is also the chairman of the Joint Intelligence Committee (JIC).

In the past NSCN-IM leaders had met former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, HD Deve Gowda, IK Gujral and Dr Manmohan Singh.

The meetings resulted partly because the NSCN-IM leaders insisted that they would hold peace talks only at the 'highest level'.

Isak Chishi Swu and Thuingaleng Muivah. (left)

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh continued with the convention by meeting the NSCN-IM chairman and general secretary at the start of both his tenures.

In an apparent reflection of the current NDA government's more hard-line stand on all security issues, there has been no decision so far on a meeting between the two NSCN-IM leaders and the Prime Minister.

"There is an interlocutor in place and he is perfectly capable of handling the talks," a source said.

An NSCN-IM delegation led by Swu and Muivah held a preliminary meeting with Ravi, a former Special Director of the Intelligence Bureau, on September 30.Since the meeting, other members of the NSCN-IM team have returned to Nagaland, while Swu and Muivah have stayed on in the capital.

It was not immediately clear when formal talks between the NSCN-IM and the NDA government would get under way.

Decade-old road projects on Indo-China border to be prioritized

Indian Border Security Force (BSF) soldiers patrol over a footbridge built over a stream near the Line of Control (LoC), a ceasefire line dividing Kashmir between India and Pakistan, at Sabjiyan sector of Poonch district, August 8, 2013.

New Delhi, Oct 10: With few roads in high-altitude areas, patrolling is difficult and the border has become vulnerable to Chinese incursions.With few roads in high-altitude areas, patrolling is difficult and the border has become vulnerable to Chinese incursions.The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is pushing for the speedy construction of roads along the border with China, that have been pending for nearly a decade, in the wake of the recent incursions by Chinese troops in the Ladakh region.

With few roads in high altitude areas, patrolling is difficult and the border has become vulnerable to Chinese incursions over the past few years. The home ministry's project for erecting 27 roads for the movement of troops from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), which guards the frontier with China, has been a non-starter as only three roads have been built so far, India Today reported.

The roads are to be constructed along the border in Jammu and Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and Arunachal Pradesh. The plan envisages the construction of 804 km of roads and the project will cost an estimated Rs.1,937 crore.

"The Chinese forces have roads right up to their border outposts and our forces have to trek for days in some areas," said a home ministry official.

The project for constructing these roads was stuck because the Environment Ministry had not given green clearances, but now the NDA government wants to expedite the work and the required clearances have been obtained, officials said.

The project began in 2004 but not much work has been done so far. The Environment Ministry was reluctant to give environment clearances and the home ministry was unable to engage contractors.

"As of now, even the first phase of construction is not over. The project was divided into three to four phases. We are hoping after the recent stand-offs and the government claiming to be bold against China, the road construction will speed up," said an officer in the security establishment.

"Since there are no roads, our forces have to walk to border outposts. All the patrolling has to be done on foot, making the border vulnerable to incursions," the officer added.

Sources said there is also a need for dedicated air support for the ITBP to facilitate quicker movement of troops and for transporting rations and other materials.

The Home Ministry wants the Finance Ministry to also clear a proposal for building 54 new border outposts along the border. An in-principle approval was given to the plan by the previous UPA government just before the elections in April but no sanctions have been made so far.

HERMONITES FELICITATE GANGTOK MLA

Pays homage to MM Rasaily: ‘He was a patriot’

Gangtok, Oct 10: Gangtok MLA Pintso Chopel Lepcha, an alumnus of Mt. Hermon School (Darjeeling), was felicitated by the Hermonites on October 1, four months after he was elected to the Sikkim Legislative Assembly.

Chopel, along with 9 others, represents the opposition Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) in the Assembly. He represents the prestigious Gangtok constituency.

Ever since 1979 Hermonites have always been elected to the Sikkim Assembly: Athup Lepcha, OT Bhutia and NK Pradhan. They all became ministers. During the get-together the Hermonites expressed the hope that Chopel, too, will make it to the Council of Ministers some day.

The Hermonites also observed 2-minute silence in memory of Sikkimese Hermonite MM Rasaily, who passed away last month at the age of 89.

"Mr. Rasaily was a Sikkimese nationalist and a patriot. He stood for Sikkim during its darkest hour. We are happy and proud that he was a Hermonite," said Jigme N Kazi, journalist and author.

Visiting Hermonites Varongthip Lulitanond (Thailand) and Ravi Agarwal (Siliguri) also offered khadas to Chopel during the dinner get-together.

Sikkim Hermonite Association (SHA) President Karma Bhutia, retired chief engineer Uttam Pradhan, senior lawyer Udai P. Sharma and senior State Bank of India manager Thentok Lachungpa were among those who felicitated Gangtok legislator.

IHM’s Kunga Chukie gets State award for “Excellence”

Gangtok, Oct 10: Sikkim Institute of Hotel Management (IHM)’s final year student Kunga Chukie Namgyal Kazi was awarded the "Award of Excellence" for "Best Performing Student" for the year 2013-14 by the Sikkim Government's Tourism & Civil Aviation Department.

She received the award from the Sikkim Legislative Assembly Speaker KN Rai on the occasion of World Tourism Day (Sept 26, 2014) at a function held here at Mayfair. Ministers, ex-ministers, secretaries etc. were among those who were present at the function.

It may be mentioned that Kunga Chukie and her college friend Lhaden Wangmu Bhutia (Gensapa) in August this year bagged the first prize in the national culinary competition organised by the Spices Board and International Pepper Community in Kovalam, Kerala.

The two 3rd year students from IHM (Sikkim) lifted the prize comprising Rs 50,000, a trophy and certificate at the "Pepp It Up 2014" competition that attracted teams from 20 hotel management institutions across the country.

On this happy occasion, Kunga Chukie’s parents expressed their thanks and appreciation to the Tourism Department for the award and to the staff and students of IHM and also to the students and teachers of Tashi Namgyal Academy (TNA), Gangtok, where Kunga studied. “All of you have contributed to this success,” a message by the parents in Facebook said.

PEOPLE&PLACES The Hermonites

It’s springtime for the Hermonites

By JIGME N KAZI

Beginning from mid-September last month in Kathmandu, the Hermonites – alumni of Darjeeling’s co-ed Mt. Hermon School (founded by American missionaries in 1895) – are on the move. The three-day revival of the alumni in Nepal attracted at least 52 Hermonites.  For the Mount Hermon Alumni Association Nepal (MHAAN) it was a rare event in recent years.

Former Mayor of Biratnagar Ram Bhattarai was one of the prominent oldies who was among the MHAAN meet in Kathmandu. Anil Jatia, Bachan Gyawali, Sangeeta Prasai and Ashoke Pokharel were among the main organizers of the reunion, whose main aim was to revive the alumni body.

Kathmandu’s reunion was followed by a mini-reunion in Gangtok during Dusserah/Dassain. 1973 batch Hermonite Varongthip Lulitanond (Thip) has visited Sikkim at least 4-5 times in the recent past. This time he was accompanied by his batchmate Ravi Agarwal from Siliguri. The reunion get-together dinner on Oct 1 followed by a day-long trip to the Indo-Tibet border near Nathula in Tsangu and a rare treat by Sikkim Hermonite President Karma Bhutia at Mayfair resort was most relaxing and enjoyable.

Despite his busy schedule (Dassain) Thip’s batchmate Uttam Pradhan, as always, was on the driver’s seat during the Tsangu trip but missed the Mayfair treat! Arthur Pazo did well to arrange the permits to Tsangu, where the visitors were treated with sun, hail, rain, snow and a huge rainbow.

Thip says Hermonites meet should always be held in the hills and not in the cities. “Thank you to all…I’ll be back soon!” says Thip, who also joined the Hermonites at the Thimphu reunion (Oct 5-8)

The Thimphu reunion was basically organized for the batch of 1978-79 but others, as is usually the case, joined in. Corinne Brokken, Mala Sujan, Dheera Sujan and Varongthip Lulitanond were among  Hermonites from abroad who were present during the occasion. Former MP from Nagaland Apok Jamir, Mukesh Singh Adhupia, Yasmin Mukand Chung, Ratnakar Bhengra, Thinley Gyari, Geeta Bikst,  Nima Dhondup,  Binod Bhutra, Bebashis Brahma and Karan Anand were among those who enjoyed the brief autumn bonding that took place in Thimphu and Paro.

To Bhutan’s Home Secretary and former Ambassador to Thailand  Tsering Dorji, an active Hermonite, goes the credit of organizing the grand get-together in the Druk Kingdom. Autumn has returned to the hills but for the Hermonites its springtime!

Come November and we have the 1969 batch of Hermonites ascend to good old Darjeeling. I missed the Thimphu meet but will surely be one of the gatecrashers to this get-together in Darj. Had promised to have b’fast with James Lowangcha Wanglat at  Keventer’s, still a favourite haunt for Hermonites.

Prahalad Prasad, Om Prakash Kanwal, Raaj Kumar Bhangar (Lakhotia), Punam Agarwal, Marcus (Bappa) Dam  are among those expected to be there for the occasion. A visit to MH has also been planned.

The recently-revived Calcutta Hermonites, who seemed to be having bigger plans for MH, is planning a grand reunion in Darjeeling in December. Many from all over the region are expected to attend the get-together. Hashib Mondol is in-charge of the show.

Len Gangte and other Northeast Hermonites are planning to form the North East Hermonites Association (NEHA) in Imphal in January 2015. We are eager to form this club as there are many Hermonites all over the Northeast who are looking forward to formation of the association. “I’ll be there!” I told Len. And I will be there!!

Our school motto is “Non-Scholae Sed Vitae Discimus” (not for school but for life we learn). Most of these reunions are taking place 30-40 years after we last left our alma mater. We are now more than convinced that our foundation for life, friendship and camaraderie are strong and deep.    

    Therefore, the Hermonites’ motto “Closeness For Life!” and after life!! Hail Mt. Hermon!

NEPAL

SIKKIM

BHUTAN

SPORT

Ace footballer Hangu Norden is no more

Gangtok, Oct 10: The Sikkim Football Association (SFA) held a condolence meeting here at Football House on Tuesday to mourn the sad demise of Hangu Norden Lepcha, a renowned footballer of the State.

Hangu passed away at 2.15 a.m. on Tuesday morning at his residence here at Lall Bazar, after prolonged illness. He was 57 years old and leaves behind his wife Sonam Doma Lepcha and son Tashi Tseten Lepcha. He was one of the main coaches of Namchi Sports Hostel which was instituted with the main aim for "Search for More Bhaichung Project", a release of the SFA said.

    Hangu was also the coach and main mentor of Nirmal Chhetri and Sanju Pradhan, who are the ISL players of India and one of the highest paid footballers of the country today. He was the Chief Coach of Football with Sports & Youth Affairs Department, Government of Sikkim, till 2011.

Thereafter, he took voluntary retirement. Even after taking VRS, he was one of the regular visitors of Paljor Stadium, Gangtok. He was often seen giving advice and tips to the young budding footballers, SFA General Secretary Menla Yetenpa said.

Hangu represented Sikkim in various national level football tournaments like Santosh Trophy for many years and brought laurel to the State. Earlier, while serving in Indian Navy in Mumbai he used to be the main player of India Navy team.