Zou Students Hold Annual Meet

New Delhi, Nov 5, 2014: The Zou students celebrated their 22nd Freshers Meet cum Annual Conference at the Shankar Lal Concert Hall, Delhi University, on November 4. Organized by the Zou Sangnaupang Pawlpi (Zou Students Association) Delhi Branch under the theme "Dispel the Darkness with Education," the daylong event was a vibrant celebration.

Shesei Zou, Chairman of the ADC Chandel District, Manipur, was the Chief Guest, while Saket Bahuguna, Delhi State Secretary of ABVP, served as the Guest of Honour.

Among the notable attendees were JT Mate, a social worker; Nenglam Mate; Luncha Zou, Secretary of the United Zou Organisation, Moreh Block; and Sochung Lhungdim, President of Congress Block, Moreh, along with their spouses.

Prominent student leaders at the event included Lal Guite, Spokesperson of the Zomi Students Federation (Delhi Cell); Stephen Valte, General Secretary of ZSF; H. Lalminlun, Vice President of Khangthah Zuun Pawl (Simte Students Association); Swapan Debbarma and Dharanjit Reang, Vice President and General Secretary of the Tripura Students Forum, Delhi; and Sunny Tayeng, General Secretary of the Adi Students Union, Delhi.

The celebration commenced with the ZSP Anthem "Thou un! Thou un!" (Rise up! Rise up!), followed by an invocation prayer led by Rev. Jangkholun Mangte, Pastor of the Zomi Christian Fellowship, Delhi.

S. Langkhanhau, President of ZSPDB, warmly welcomed the gathering and invited everyone to join in the festivities.

In his speech, Chief Guest Shesei Zou encouraged the students to pursue their goals and strive to make their parents proud of their achievements. Guest of Honour Saket Bahuguna emphasized that "Delhi belongs to all of us; it is not limited to any particular ethnic community." He added that attacks on people from the Northeast are attacks on the essence of India, assuring attendees that they could seek help if they faced any issues.

The ZSP Choir, cultural dance performances, Zoutawilienu choreography, and a Freshers Parade captivated the audience, filling the hall with energy as people danced, sang, and cheered along with the performers. The vibrant atmosphere was heightened by attendees wearing traditional attire, showcasing the unique culture of the Zou tribe. Notably, the Zou tribesmen have a rich history of defending their ancestral lands and resisting British colonial rule between 1917 and 1919.

A group of freshers received blessings during a prayer led by Rev. T. Liankholal, Pastor of PCI (R). The ZSP Study Forum also honored 12 outstanding members, with coordinator Malcolm Hangmuanthang sharing a brief history of the forum. The first session concluded with a prayer from Rev. Zamlianpau Zou, Pastor of the Zou Presbyterian Church Synod, Delhi.

After lunch, the second session commenced, hosted by Ginminlun and Sarha Chingdeilun. The Zou Youth Organisation, Delhi, recognized Zou youths who had voluntarily donated blood during emergencies with the Samaritan Awards.

ZSPDB awarded the Personality of the Year to Bruce K. Thangkhal for his exemplary service to the Zou community and the Northeast people in Delhi and NCR. Thangsuankap and Niangneivah were crowned Mister Fresher and Miss Fresher, respectively. Additionally, ZOiNN.com sponsored awards for Best Male Traditional Attire and Best Female Traditional Attire, which went to Mangminlun Munluo and Niangneilam, respectively.

ZSPDB General Secretary Hauminlun presented the annual report, while Vice President Joseph Zamchinlian delivered the vote of thanks. The celebration concluded with a benediction by Rev. Khamkhenthang, Pastor of the Manipur Evangelical Lutheran Church, Delhi.

The audience was further entertained by singers Diana, Ruth, Rose, Snoopy, and the Zotal Band, who delivered soulful performances.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

NORTH EAST FESTIVAL KICKS OFF IN CAPITAL FROM 7-10 NOV

North East Festival will start new era of communication about North East Region

The four-day Festival kicks off in the capital from tomorrow (7^th-10^th Nov)

 'Insurgence to Resurgence' is the theme of the festivaltheme this year; aims to attract investment and tourism promotion

·         Bigger and better than before, the four day carnival to focus on the opportunities inthe 8 North Eastern states and will include IT & ITES,  Agri- Food Processing, Tourism, Handloom & Handicraft

 ·         Music, dance, fashion, food, exhibition of art, photography, film, discussions and much more

 ·         Felicitation of sports icons from the North East who have brought glory for the country

·         Volunteers have gone door to door to various areas of Delhi to invite Delhiites to the festival

·         A quiz competition ‘Know Your North East’ is organized as an awareness drive in JNU &  DU

New Delhi, 5^th November, 2014: After a hugely successful inaugural last year, the second edition of the North East Festival is back in a brand new avatar in the capital. Being held from 7^th to 10^th November 2014 at IGNCA, Janpath, New Delhi, this year’s edition of the festival will be focused on the various business and investment opportunities that the region presents, apart from showcasing the multifarious culture and rich heritage of the North Eastern states. 

North East Festival is organised by the reputed socio-cultural trust, Trend MMS, in association with North East Community of Delhi, Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India, Ministry of DoNER, Govt. of India and IGNCA. . North East Festival has recently become the part of prestigious Delhi international art festival. 

Around 30 bands will perform day and night and enthral the audience in the entire festival.  Some of them are Guwahati Lights, Akhu- Imphal Talkies, Yesterdrive, Chethuwang, Vinyl Record, Soulmate and The Local Train, Foot Wings, Stuti Choudhury, Minutes of Decay and Mayukh Hazarika, Tetseo Sisters, Guru Rewben Mashangva, Frisky Pints, Bluestring Parth, Zubeen Garg, Jeli Kayi, Emielyn D. Das, Aborginals Project, Brahmaputra Boys, Late Too Soon, Simanta Sekhar, Girish & the Chornicles, MSonic and Bollywood singer Ash King.

 Everyday there will be ethnic Dance by artistes from various States of North East India and Sangeet Natak Akademi. 

In the inaugural session, medal winning athletes from the North East who have brought glory for the country in the recent CWG & Asian Games will be felicitated under NEC Chairman’s Sports Awards for Excellence in International & National Sports meets, including Mary Kom, Sarita Devi, Devendro etc. 

The “North East Festival”, has become a brand which is synonymous with the unification of the various stakeholders of North East under one dynamic platform.The event is expected to be attended more than one lakh people, top North East icons like MC Mary Kom, Adil Hussain,  Everester Anshu Jemsenpa etc., Policymakers of the country,  Chief Ministers of various North Eastern States, top bureaucrats, intellectuals, students, Investors, Tour operators, among others. Hon’ble PM is invited to inaugurate the Festival which is also expected to be attended by many senior union cabinet Ministers including Mr Rajnath Singh, Mr VK Singh, Mrs Smriti Irani, Mr Nitin Gadkari, Mr Piyush Goyal, Mr Kiren Rijiju, Mr Sarbananda Sonowal, Mr Jewel Oram. 

Speaking about this year’s edition, Shyamkanu Mahanta, Organiser in Chief, North East Festival said, “This year, the theme is Insurgence to Resurgence” with focus on highlighting the positive stories of entrepreneurship and development.  Apart from the Carnival,  Exhibition Cum Sale showcasing unique artisans and weavers of the region, organic fruits and vegetables would be presented. The objective is to present people of Delhi to understand North East India in one platform, to encourage tourism to NER.” 

Mr. Mahanta informed there would be serious discussion on critical issues of the region. To attract investment in ITES Sector in association with Ministry of IT, Govt of India a Seminar is organised with investors to explore investments in the ITES sector in the North East.  A session on Education is expected to be chaired by Union HRD Minister would discuss about ways of introducing subjects from North East in the School  College curriculum to create awareness about the region.” 

“This year our focus is on what we could contribute to our region beyond the festival, be it skill & entrepreneurship development, investment and tourism promotion etc.”, Mr Mahanta added. 

Discussion Sessions:

Alienation feeling in the North East & Implementation of Bezbaruah Committee Recommendation: Two discussion sessions Alienation feeling in the North East & Implementation of Bezbaruah Committee Recommendation will be held with the help of North East Community of Delhi. 

Agro – Food Processing Sectors in North East Region: North East India is very resourceful in nature and its soil is very fertile which definitely provides possibility of Agro – Food Processing Sectors in North East Region.

Entrepreneurship and Investments in the North East: A session on Entrepreneurship and Investments in the North East will be held on 8^th November. 

To inculcate and promote entrepreneurship in the youth of North East region North East Festival has tied up with Startup Weekend- a global grassroots movement of active and empowered entrepreneurs who are learning the basics of founding startups and launching successful ventures. 

Insurgence to Resurgence: At a time when business communities show reluctance citing reason of insurgence to go and invest in the North East inspite of the plentiful opportunities the region provides, the reality is different. Many insurgent groups recently joined hands with the government in the peace talk process. It is time to communicate to the world that North East is no more an insurgents’ place and people of all the eight states will welcome all the positive steps be it investment in the region or any contribution towards its economy. 

Ex-ULFA leader Mr Arabinda Rajkhowa who is also actively working on the peace process along with other leaders like Dilip Nunisa, Ex-Chairman, DHD will join a discussion session “Insurgence to Resurgence.”

North East in Education: When there is a racial discrimination happens towards North Easterner or a blooper happens about North East by govt agencies or ignorance shown about North East, people are disheartened and blame them of racism and ignorance. To counter this it is very necessary that people are well educated about their fellow brothers and sisters from their childhood. North East Festival is creating a platform to discuss inclusion of contents of North East which can be systematically included in the curriculum which will help people understand from their childhood about one India and its diversity.

A session “Integrating North East India through Education” will be held on 9^th November where top officials of HRD ministry will be present. 

Sports and North East India: Hon’ble Minister, Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Sports & Youth Affairs, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Govt. of India will chair a discussion session on Sports and North East India.

In the sports scenario, North East India’s contribution is enormous to the nation. Building adequate infrastructure and other support will optimize the potentials of all the sportspersons and motivate people to play more. 

Tourism and North East India: North East India has the potential to be the top after-sought destinations for tourists in India. A discussion session among the tour operators of India  and policy makers how to include North East in their itinerary and promote its tourism. 

The Carnival:

Music & Dance: Around 30 bands will perform day and night and enthral audience in the entire festival.  Some of them are Guwahati Lights, Akhu- Imphal Talkies, Yesterdrive, Chethuwang, Vinyl Record, Soulmate and The Local Train, Foot Wings, Stuti Choudhury, Minutes of Decay and Mayukh Hazarika, Tetseo Sisters, Guru Rewben Mashangva, Frisky Pints, Bluestring Parth, Zubeen Garg, Jeli Kayi, Emielyn D. Das, Aborginals Project, Brahmaputra Boys, Late Too Soon, Simanta Sekhar, Girish & the Chornicles, MSonic and Bollywood singer Ash King.

Everyday there will be ethnic Dance by artistes from various States of North East India and Sangeet Natak Akademi.

Fashion: North East is famous for its fashion. On 8^th & 9^th fashionistas will see the fashionable side of North East. A mix of established and gen-next designers based out North East will fire the stage with their haute couture. The designers who will showcase their creations include Dhiraj Deka, (Assam), Garima Saikia Garg (Assam), Yana Nogba (Arunachal Pradesh), L.D.Rosylyn Konshai (Manipur), and some gen-next designers like Arita Kashyap (Assam),  Ephica lyngoh (Meghalaya), Manhira Christina (Nagaland), Pushpa Chaube (Meghalaya), Rinzing c Bhutia (Sikkim), Neikupe (Nagaland), hottimwon Kapai (Manipur),  Payal Oshan Goswami (Assam), Bithunglo (Nagaland), Lalremsiami (Mizoram). 

Food: The North East Festival will present best of North Eastern food. It’s food hub will see reputed names famous for its ethnic and authentic food like Rosang Cafe(North East Food), Dzukou tribal kitchen- (Naga Food ), Nagaland Kitchen (Naga Food), Tribal Taste (Arunachali Food), R&R kitchen-Ro Hmar (Flavours of Manipur), The Cousine Boulevard (best of Assamese and NER cuisines) etc. 

On the sidelines, Sanghita Singh’s book “The Seven Sisters, Kitchen Tales from the North East" will be launched. 

Photography and Painting Exhibition: Vikramjit Kakati is curating the Photography Exhibition where there will be more than 150 photographs related to North East from 100 photographers from and outside North East will be exhibited. Some photography clubs have joined hands with the North East Festival in this exhibition such as Faridabad Photography Club, Ghaziabad Photography Club, Immagine, Kerala (India Waved in Frames ), Manipur Photography Club, Mizo Photographers' Society, Noida Photography Club, Photo Musings Colour Lab, Photographic Society of Assam, hotography Club of Assam, Photography Club of Tripura, Photography Naga, Tinsukia Photographic Society. On the sidelines North East Festival organised a Photography Contest on the subject ‘North East’. 

Bikramaditya Choudhury is the curator of Painting Exhibition. Works of 38 young artists have been selected and will be showcased in the festival. The main aim of the painting exhibition is to promote as many young artists as possible. 

Film Festival: To promote upcoming filmmakers and film making in North East a Film Festival has been organised on 8^th November. 

Quiz: To create awareness about North East among the people North East Community in Delhi will host a quiz in Delhi University, JNU named “Know Your North East” on 6^th November. 

The festival will see exhibitions of    Agri & Food Processing Exhibition cum Sale – Organic Farming, Floriculture, Exhibition cum sale of Handloom & handicrafts. People from 8 states will play various indigenous games as well.

Highlights:

• State kiosks wherein each states of North East India will highlight its resources, projects
• Agri & Food Processing Exhibition cum Sale – Organic Farming, Floriculture
• Exhibition cum sale of Handloom & handicrafts
• Tour Operators Meet
• Ethnic food festival – showcasing the best delectable cuisines from the entire region

·         Photography exhibition showcasing the vibrant culture, tribes and important landmarks of the region. Art Exhibition showcasing top artistes of North East both modern and traditional art forms

·         Film Festival of North East to promote young upcoming flimmakers

·         Traditional Sports of North East

·         Fashion show displaying the rich ethnic fabric collections by top North East designers.

·         Cultural programs in evening – musical performance by popular musicians from the North-East Region like Zubin Garg, Tetseo Sisters, Guru Reuban Masangva, Imphal Talkies, Soulmate, Girish the Chronicle, Vinyl Records etc. Bollywood singer – Ash King

·         Day time Carnival – Tribal dance from various tribes of North East, Musical performance around 30 talented musical bands of the region

• Round-table discussions on issues of security of North Eastern people in Delhi, IT& ITES opportunities, Educaton, Sports, Agriculture Food Processing, Tourism, with participation from all major stakeholders of the region and the policymakers of the country.

For further information, please contact:
Anuj Kumar Boruah / Ayonava Bagchi
Young Monk Communications
M: +91 9958372662 / 9818774606
E: anuj@youngmonk.in / ab@youngmonk.in

Chavang Kut Celebrated in Delhi

New Delhi, Nov 2, 2014: The Autumn festival of Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi, known as Chavang Kut, was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Old JNU Campus CRPF Ground in South Delhi on November 1.

Mr. P. Gangte served as Kut Pa (Father of Kut), while Mr. Prabhakar Tripathi, Commandant of CRPF, attended as the Chief Guest. Many other dignitaries and invitees were also present for the occasion. Among the distinguished guests was Mr. Nehginpao Kipgen, a noted writer and scholar based in the United States.

The celebration took place in the expansive CRPF grounds, where many Kut revellers donned traditional attire and showcased vibrant cultural dances, highlighting the rich heritage of the ZO peoples.

Organized by the Kut Committee, the event brought together the ZO communities—Chin, Kuki, Mizo, and Zomi—who reside across various regions, including Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Assam, Burma’s Chin State, and the Chittagong Hills of Bangladesh.

The festival was filled with lively Kuki songs and dances, and the crowd joyfully participated in the Kut chant, "Li Li ... Ho Ho Ho," a typical expression of celebration.

Chavang Kut is traditionally celebrated by the ZO peoples as a harvest festival, marking the culmination of the agricultural season.

In a similar spirit, the Mizos in Delhi also commemorated the Kut festival at a farmhouse in Chattarpur, South Delhi.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

Naga girl 'allegedly' raped in Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 27, 2014: A 22-year old girl from Nagaland alleged that she was raped by one unknown African boy at her rented room here in Indira Vihar, North Delhi on Monday early morning around 2.30am. FIR has been lodged yet the accused not arrested.

~ KV NEWS

Pu Langkhanpau Guite in Delhi Khuado Pawi uoppih

New Delhi, Oct 26, 2014: Pankhawm Hatna chi thupi a nei in Zomi Inkuan Delhi (ZID) in Khuadou Pawi zang hi. Tuohun ah ADCC chairman Langkhanpau Guite in chief guest hina toh uop hi. Tuoban ah Biaklun Shoute, chairman, Working Group, ZEPADA, Bruce, President, ZSF Delhi Cell, Upa Tualsuanmang, Champhai leh Liankhanthang ten jong uop uhi.

Langkhanpau Guite in ZID te leh lasate leh item a pangte panpihna silpiah nei hi.

Tuoleh ei Zomite a ngai poimoh dan thu gen a, Zomite ki it semding leh kithutuah banah pankhawm hatna ahi chithu gen hi.

West Delhi ah Zomi 800-1000 kikal bang um hi'n ZID lamkai gen, atangpi in Vikaspuri leh Uttam Nagar veng sungah tampi um hi.

~ BKT | Zogam Today

Northeast Boy Clinches Gold at Karate Championship in U.P.

NEW DELHI, OCT 24, 2014 – A 15-year-old boy from Manipur has made headlines by winning the Inter School Karate Championship 2014 recently held in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.

Joshua Khupminthang Tombing, son of Mr. Nialkhanson and Mrs. Huaikhanching, showcased his exceptional skills, triumphing over all his opponents to secure victory in the final bout on October 19. The championship took place at St. Mary’s Christian School in Ghaziabad.

Currently a 9th-grade student at St. Mary’s, Joshua brought pride to his school, family, and home state with his remarkable performance. Competing in the -70 kg weight category, he earned a Gold Medal, a trophy, and a certificate from the organizers of the event, which saw participation from numerous schools.

“I began practicing Karate when I was 12 years old and owe much of my success to my master, Sensei Naesh Sharma. I will do my best to make my country proud,” Joshua stated in an interview.

Joshua lives in Ghaziabad with his older brother, father, who is a dedicated government servant, and mother, a supportive homemaker. The family originally hails from Bungmual Village in Lamka, Churachandpur district.

With his sights set on greater achievements, Joshua Tombing is a promising young talent in the world of Karate.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

Mizo Woman Brutally Murdered in Delhi; Prime Suspect Detained

New Delhi, Oct 17, 2014: A 29-year-old Mizo woman, Juliet Zonunmawii, was found murdered in her rented accommodation in Munirka, South Delhi, on  Thursday night, 16 Oct 2014.

Juliet, daughter of Vanlalhriata from Kulikawn, Aizawl, was brought to Safdarjung Hospital with severe head injuries and multiple stab wounds on her thigh.

According to the police, she had been living with a man identified as Virender Singh, son of Ram Singh. The rented accommodation was under her name, and the incident took place in House No. 176, Munirka.

Juliet's younger brother, Jerry Zorammuana Ralte, serving in the Army Medical Corps in Agra, arrived in Delhi on Friday afternoon to identify her body, which was at Safdarjung Hospital. Juliet was the second eldest among two brothers and two sisters, while Jerry is the youngest.

Sources reveal that Juliet was with Virender Singh and a female friend on Thursday night. After her friend left, Juliet was in the kitchen preparing Maggi soup. When Virender returned 20 minutes later, he found her lying in a pool of blood.

The Delhi Mizo Zirlai Pawl (Mizo Students' Association) has been actively involved in the case, along with prominent social activists like Binalakshmi Nepram, founder of the Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network, and Alana Golmei, founder and general secretary of the North East Support Centre & Helpline. Several other organizations from the Northeast are also rallying for justice.

A friend of Juliet, Mahruaii, who works as a singer in nightclubs, shared, “I used to talk to Juliet over the phone for the past six months, but we never met since I live in West Delhi.”

Department of Forensic Medicine, Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi. Pic: NESCH

On Friday evening, Juliet's brother visited her body at the Department of Forensic Medicine in Safdarjung Hospital. The post-mortem is scheduled for tomorrow, according to hospital officials.

The police have registered a murder case under Section 302 of the IPC at Vasant Vihar Police Station. The investigation is ongoing, and the prime suspect has been detained.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal, Media Incharge

North East Support Centre & Helpline (24X7)
New Delhi

Two Northeast Boys Assaulted in Sikanderpur

New Delhi, Oct 16, 2014: In what is suspected to be a hate crime, more than seven locals armed with bats and sticks brutally assaulted two boys from the Northeast in Sikanderpur, Gurgaon, late last night.

The attack began around midnight and continued until 3 a.m. Mr. Awang and Mr. Chester, the victims, were severely beaten, and their hair was forcibly cut off by the assailants. Both sustained serious injuries.

According to the victims, the attackers threatened them, saying, “If you were from Manipur, we would kill you.” Before releasing them, the attackers warned, “Tell your Northeast people to leave Sikanderpur, or you will all face the consequences.”

As of now, no FIR has been filed, and no arrests have been made.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal, Media Incharge

Northeast Support Centre & Helpline, New Delhi

MSO Rishikesh Tour

A group of young people embarked on a trip to Rishikesh on October 11, organized by the Mara Students' Organisation (MSO), Joint Headquarters, Delhi. They experienced the thrill of river rafting on the famous Ganga, filled with excitement and joy. One of the most exhilarating moments was jumping off a cliff into the water, creating unforgettable memories.

~ BRUCE K. THANGKHAL

ZSF Delhi Cell Donates Blood to Patient in New Delhi

 

Members of the Zomi Students' Federation (ZSF) Delhi Cell donated blood to a patient in New Delhi. Pic: BKT

Golden Welcome: Mary Kom Receives Hero's Reception in Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 3, 2014 – Asian Games gold medalist MC Mary Kom received a rapturous welcome as hundreds of fans from the Northeast community gathered at Indira Gandhi International Airport late Thursday night to greet the “Queen of Boxing” after her stunning victory in Incheon, South Korea.

Arriving at around 1 a.m., “Magnificent Mary” was met by an excited crowd that had been eagerly waiting at Gate 6 for hours. Although security arrangements initially caused some confusion, with Mary being redirected to a different exit, the crowd’s energy remained unshaken. Fans and media alike rushed from gate to gate, determined to catch a glimpse of their hero.

Amidst tight security, Mary Kom, a five-time world champion and mother of three, was quickly surrounded by reporters and supporters as she exited the airport. Many fans, who had brought flowers and traditional shawls to honor her, struggled to reach her in the packed crowd. One fan, Mr. Pritam from Manipur, lamented, “I bought flowers for Rs 500 but didn’t get the chance to give them.”

The airport was adorned with heartfelt placards: “Queen of the Ring, MC Mary Kom, Congratulations,” “Golden Lady of India, JAI HO!”, and “Unbreakable Mary, Unbreakable Northeast India.” The crowd erupted with chants of “Long Live Mary Kom,” celebrating her incredible victory against Kazakhstan’s Zhaina Shekerbekova in the final bout.

Not far behind Mary Kom, fellow boxer Laishram Sarita Devi, whose controversial semi-final loss to South Korea’s Park Jina sparked widespread outrage, was also greeted with cheers. Fans held placards declaring, “YOU ARE A CHAMPION FOR US, SARITA” and “YOUR TEARS ARE OUR TEARS,” showing solidarity with the boxer whose courage and resilience inspired many.

As both champions waved to their supporters and entered their vehicles, the celebration in the capital marked a proud moment for Indian sports and a shining testament to the indomitable spirit of these athletes.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

(for The Mizoram Post | Eastern Chronicle | The Northeast Today | Zogam Today)

 

 

 

MHJU Condemns Attack on Media Personnel in Lamka

Lamka, Oct 3, 2014 – The Manipur Hill Journalists' Union (MHJU) has strongly condemned the brutal assault on two of its members, Mr. Suanlian (Protection Staff, Nisin Thuhiltu) and Mr. Sasang, son of Mr. Nengzalam (Printer, The Lamka Post), in the early hours of October 3rd. The attack occurred at around 2:00 a.m. on Mission Road, Hiangtam Lamka, as the two were returning home after printing newspapers at Lamka Super Offset Printer, Vengnuam, Hiangtam Lamka.

According to reports, the duo was attacked by three unidentified assailants without any provocation. Both victims were admitted to District Hospital, Churachandpur, for treatment.

The MHJU has called on the district authorities to swiftly investigate the incident and apprehend the culprits to prevent such violent acts against media professionals in the future.

The union expressed deep concern over the increasing attacks on journalists in the predominantly Christian district of Churachandpur, which has seen repeated instances of violence targeting media workers.

~ BKT

ikkim observes Gandhi Jatanti

Gangtok, Oct 2, 2014:  Sikkim celebrated Gandhi Jayanti or the birth anniversary of father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi with zeal and pomp in a function organised at Chintan Bhawan here in the capital today.

The Governor Mr. Shrinivas Patil graced the occasion as the Chief Guest where as the Chief Minister Mr. Pawan Chamling was the guest of honour. 

After paying homage to the Mahatma by the Governor and the Chief Minister by offering their prayers and garlands to the bust of Mahatma Gandhi in MG Marg the main function began in Chintan bhawan where the Chief guest and the dignitaries lit the ceremonial lamp to commence the programme. 

The programme which was neatly punctuated by recitation of bhajan by the artists of Culture department, patriotic songs by the school students of Modern and West Point Sr Secondary School, prayers by heads of religious.

Produced by Information and Public Relations Department Government of Sikkim a documentary film on Maahatma Gandhi was also screened on the occasion. 

The Governor on the occasion also gave award to the best aganwadi worker  Mrs. Sheday Lepcha of Mangbru ICDS Centre, Rabongla Rural Project, South Sikkim,after receiving the state award she has now automatically eligible for National Award which will be conferred to her next year. 

Mrs Lepcha received a cash reward of Rs 5,000, certificate and citation letter from the Governor. 

The Governor Mr. Patil also gave away gifts to the Safai Karmacharies of Gangtok Municipal Corporation during the programme.

Speaking on the occasion the Governor Mr. Shrinivas Patil highlighted on the sacrifices and the efforts made by the Mahatma Gandhi to free India from 150 years of British Rule. 

Its due to the unparalleled contributions of the Mahatma that our nation is an Independent state today and we should all follow the path shown by Mahatma Gandhi and always light the feeling of being an Indian first in our heart and contribute in our respective capacities to build the nation as well as our state. 

Mr. Patil also second the feeling of honour ship and and belonging one should have for the state and the nation which the Chief Minister often states and appeals to the people of the state. 

The Chief Minister Mr. Pawan Chamling who also addressed the gathering appealed to the gathering not to confine the day to such celebration or think it as a formality but remember the immense contributions made by Mahatma Gandhi and get inspired by his life and his ways and try and replicate in ones lives.

Mahatma Gandhi is an exemplary figure and his contribution in making India an independent state is huge, so we must always remember his sacrifices and how he believed in equality and and taught to treat every class and creed of people equally without any discrimination. 

Focusing on the students who were also present in numbers he stated that talent and the potential  we have we should try and pursue and polish them to become successful in life.  People who know their potential and talent and make good use of them will be successful and achieve their goals in life, Mr. Chamling affirmed. 

He further added that his government has always worked tirelessly to give best quality education to the students of Sikkim and will continue to do so and his government will give all possible support and opportunity to the students and younger generation of Sikkim. 

We make plans, policies and programmes in favour of the people of Sikkim and for betterment of state therefore each-one of us including students should be positive towards such programmes, and policies of the government and support them in-order to make Sikkim even better, he stated. 

Government cannot achieve any target without the support of the people therefore the support of the people is of utmost importance and we should all take collective responsibility to make our state and exemplary state, Mr. Chamling urged.

He also appealed to the students and the people of Sikkim to participate wholeheartedly in clean India campaign launched by the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, he further informed that Sikkim in the year 2008 went on to become the first state in the country to achieve the target of cent percent sanitation in the country.

The Function also saw The Chief Secretary Mrs. R Ongmu administering the Swatcha Bharat Pledge to the officers and the government employees present. 

Earlier in the morning The Chief Minister also flagged off two Garbage Compactor Vehicles of Gangtok Municipal Corporation from MG Marg near Titanic Park on the occasion of Sawatch Bharat Abhiyan.

 

ZIF urges Cancellation of Proposed Indian Army HQ in Sairang

Aizawl, Oct 1, 2014 – The Kolabari Ram Committee has called on the Mizoram government to halt the proposed establishment of an Indian Army Headquarters in Sairang Dinthar, raising concerns over its impact on local livelihoods and the environment.

At a press conference held at the Aizawl Press Club, Ng. Lalhmangaiha, Chairman of the Kolabari Ram Committee, revealed that despite strong opposition from locals and multiple objections submitted by various NGOs, the project is still underway. "We are making one final appeal to the authorities to cancel the project in the broader interest of the people," Lalhmangaiha stated.

He noted that five formal objections had been filed, along with a press release. The two NGOs that had initially signed a No Objection Certificate (YMA and MUP) have since withdrawn their support.

Lalhmangaiha emphasized that a significant portion of the proposed site is uncultivated forest land, which serves as a vital resource for local villagers. "Many families depend on this forest for their livelihood. Establishing an army headquarters here will disrupt their lives and destroy the environment. On humanitarian and environmental grounds, we urge the authorities to cancel this project," he added.

The Zo Indigenous Forum (ZIF) also condemned the government’s actions, arguing that the project violates the rights of Indigenous Peoples as outlined in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Article 19 of UNDRIP requires governments to obtain the free, prior, and informed consent of Indigenous communities before enacting measures that affect them. Article 30.1 prohibits military activities on Indigenous lands without their consent.

ZIF has called on the Mizoram government and the Ministry of Home Affairs to immediately cancel the project, asserting that the establishment of the Army Headquarters in the Kolabari area of Sairang will have severe repercussions on the social, economic, and cultural life of the Indigenous people living in the region.

 

Sikkim Hosts Sensitization Programme on Domestic Violence Act

Gangtok, 29 Sept 2014 – A sensitization programme on the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act 2005 (PWDVA) was organized by the Sikkim State Legal Services Authority (SLSA) at Chintan Bhawan, Gangtok, on Saturday. The event aimed to raise awareness about the legal framework and social issues surrounding domestic violence.

The programme saw the participation of Mr. K.W. Bhutia, Member Secretary of SLSA, alongside officials from the Sikkim State Commission for Women (East), police officers, service providers, protection officers, and representatives from the Department of Social Justice, Empowerment & Welfare, Labour Department, NGOs, panel advocates, media personnel, as well as students from law colleges and schools.

Distinguished resource persons from the Centre for Advocacy and Research (CFAR) included Ms. Archana More from the Karve Institute of Social Sciences, Ms. Sanyogita Dhamdhere (SPC, CFAR Maharashtra), and Mr. Suthirtha Ghoshal (SPO, CFAR Kolkata), who shared their insights on domestic violence issues.

In his welcome address, Mr. Bhutia highlighted the pervasive nature of domestic violence, noting that no society, regardless of caste, creed, or status, is immune to it. He acknowledged the challenges faced during the initial implementation of the Act in Sikkim but praised the collaborative efforts of the High Court, Social Welfare Department, and other stakeholders in ensuring its effective administration. Mr. Bhutia emphasized that social stigma against victims is a major factor contributing to the high incidence of domestic violence and urged everyone, including students and officials, to take responsibility in standing against all forms of domestic abuse.

Ms. Archana More, in her address, shared stories of women affected by domestic violence and explored the societal factors that perpetuate such violence, including patriarchal norms and gender roles. She explained the severe health consequences of domestic violence and the long-term psychological effects, which can lead to crime or suicide. Ms. More stressed the importance of proactive community engagement to combat the issue and noted that Sikkim, compared to mainland India, appeared to be a relatively safer place for women.

The day-long programme featured group presentations and an interactive session, where participants raised questions and discussed various aspects of the Act.

It is worth noting that the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act 2005 primarily offers protection to wives or female live-in partners from domestic abuse by their husbands or male partners, as well as their relatives. The law also extends its protection to other women in the household, such as sisters, widows, or mothers, and even covers minor boys who are victims of domestic violence.

Sikkim Celebrates World Tourism Day with Focus on Community Development

Gangtok, 29 Sept 2014: Sikkim marked this year’s World Tourism Day (WTD) with a vibrant celebration focused on the theme “Tourism and Community Development,” emphasizing the role tourism plays in fostering sustainable growth at the grassroots level. Organized by the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, the event took place on Saturday at a local hotel in Ranipool, East Sikkim.

In line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this year’s theme underscored how tourism can empower communities by involving local populations in decision-making processes. Through community-based tourism, host communities are actively engaged in shaping the tourism value chain, enhancing local governance, and fostering social cohesion beyond job creation and economic benefits.

The celebration, graced by Speaker of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Mr. K.N. Rai, as the chief guest, featured colorful cultural performances and a presentation on the event’s theme. Mr. Rai also launched an online tracking system and a handbook on homestays during the event.

In his address, Mr. Rai called upon the people of Sikkim to collectively promote tourism with a sense of professionalism, highlighting the state's rich cultural heritage, art, and traditions. "Tourism has immense potential for sustainable development, and it’s not just the responsibility of the tourism department but of every individual to contribute to this sector," he said. He further emphasized the importance of hard work and unity in making Sikkim a model state for tourism.

An award ceremony was also held, recognizing outstanding performers in the tourism sector, including tour operators, guides, drivers, and students excelling in the subject of tourism. Employees of the Department of Tourism were also appreciated for their dedication and hard work.

Minister for Tourism, Mr. Ugen Gyatso Bhutia, highlighted the progress Sikkim has made under the leadership of Chief Minister Mr. Pawan Chamling, particularly in the tourism sector. He encouraged citizens to contribute ideas and suggestions to propel the state to greater heights.

The event was attended by several ministers, including Mr. D.T. Lepcha, Mr. Somnath Poudyal, and Mr. Arjun Kumar Ghatani, along with various department heads and the DC East.