Sikkim CM Reunites with College Friends After 36 Years at Darjeeling Government College
Darjeeling, Aug 5: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) had an emotional return to Darjeeling Government College, his alma mater, after 36 years. He [] The post Sikkim CM Reunites with College Friends After 36 Years at Darjeeling Government College appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang Visits Alma Mater On Darjeeling Government College
Gangtok, August 5: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang made an emotional return to his alma mater, Darjeeling Government College, as the institution celebrated its 78th Foundation Day on Wednesday. Describing the visit as a heartfelt homecoming, Tamang reconnected with former classmates and teachers who played a significant role in shaping his early years. Walking... The post Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang Visits Alma Mater On Darjeeling Government Colleges 78th Foundation Day first appeared on Northeast Today .
Nepali Film Pachis Pachis Announced, Darjeeling
Kathmandu, Aug 3: A new Nepali feature film, Pachis Pachis, has been officially announced at a special launch event held at Casa Lounge Bar in [] The post Nepali Film Pachis Pachis Announced, Darjeelings Popular Comedian Bhakte Bhai Makes Film Debut appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
IRCTC Tour Package: Visit Gangtok and Darjeeling on a low budget; IRCTC brings special tour packages
India Tour Packages: If you want to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas, the serene environment, and the natural views in a single trip, then an IRCTC tour can be the best option for you.Gangtok Darjeeling Kalimpong IRCTC PackageIRCTC Himalayan Tranquility Tour Package: If you're planning a trip...
India House marks historic trade milestone as UK deal takes effect
INDIAS high commissioner to Britain, Periasamy Kumaran, cut a cake at India House last Wednesday (15) to celebrate the India-UK Free Trade Agreement finally coming into force after more than a decade of negotiations. A portrait of Jawaharlal Nehru, independent Indias first prime minister, surveyed an array of Indian goods that can now be exported to the UK either tax free or at greatly reduced rates of taxation. The high commissioner also opened a small box containing jewellery that had arrived overnight from India free of tax. Gems and jewellery make up one sector where Indian traders expect to do well in the UK market in the years to come. But the jewellery looked very traditional and will probably appeal only to British Asians, particularly for weddings. People will not have to go to India to do their shopping. Other items will have wider appeal textiles, for example. On display were a packet of classic Darjeeling black tea, a bottle of Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin, another of Samsara Contemporary Indian Gin, and coffee from India. The governments officially refer to the FTA as the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). Tax-free jewellery shipped to Britain Indian High Commission The high commissioner addressed a gathering of British and Indian businessmen: This is a major economic milestone for both India and the UK, and a powerful statement of intent about the future of one of the worlds most important economic partnerships. This agreement is firmly focused on the future. It is defined by confidence, mutual respect and shared ambition, and, above all, it is focused on growth, on enabling the free flow of goods and services in both directions, strengthening investment links, making it easier for companies to create jobs in each others economies, and demonstrating that our greatest successes will be those that we build together. He added: The evidence is already compelling. Bilateral trade in goods and services now stands at nearly 48 billion. The long-held aspiration of doubling UK India trade by 2030 once appeared rather ambitious, but today, with CETA in force, it is a goal that appears firmly within reach. The investment relationship is equally distinctive. Investments flow strongly in both directions. India is investing in the UK, while British companies continue to expand their presence in India. Few major bilateral relationships can demonstrate such balanced two-way confidence. Data from the UKs Department for Business and Trade shows that, for inward investment in 2025-26, India emerged as the second-largest source of FDI into the UK after the United States, with 93 investment projects creating nearly 12,700 new jobs, the high commissioner said. Kumaran added: These companies are not simply investing in Britain; they are creating employment, paying taxes, strengthening supply chains, and contributing to Britains future. That is what a modern partnership looks like the worlds fifth and sixth largest economies working together towards shared goals. Assam tea Indian High Commission It is fair to say most people in Britain are unaware that India is now the worlds fifth largest economy, having overtaken the UK. Of course, when it comes to per capita income, India has a long way to go before it catches up with the West. The frustration for successive high commissioners has been that most people in Britain appear unaware of the extent to which the UK economy is being propped up by investment from India. This is the problem that Kumaran, like his predecessor Vikram Doraiswami, will have to counter. Kumaran described the tangible importance of trade, saying: We have with us today importers from Indias gems and jewellery sector, whose first consignment, benefiting from zero duty under CETA, arrived today by air cargo. Multiple consignments worth millions of dollars have sailed from the ports of India to leverage the benefits of CETA, including labour-intensive goods such as textiles, leather, electronic goods, and chemicals. Similarly, I can also sense the excitement among British automobile, food and drink, and Scotch whisky exporters. This is more than just one shipment or a set of shipments. It represents the beginning of a new era of opportunity for businesses on both sides. It shows how an agreement negotiated between governments can translate into real opportunities for companies, consumers, and communities. This morning, I also had the privilege of visiting DP Worlds London Gateway Port, where a vessel from India had just arrived. It was a fitting symbol for todays occasion. Indian coffee Indian High Commission He added: Trade is about movement, not only of ships and goods, but also of ideas, investment, and people. But the significance of this agreement cannot be measured by trade and investment outcomes alone. Its real promise lies in co-development, co-innovation, and a deeper, long-term strategic partnership. India and the UK share a natural partnership in financial services. The UK remains one of the worlds foremost global financial centres, while India is among the fastest-growing major economies, with deepening capital markets, a rapidly expanding digital economy, and an ambitious programme of financial sector reform. The opportunities for collaboration have now been created. Mechanisms, including the India-UK economic and financial dialogue, are deepening cooperation in financial services, fintech, and the digital economy. The numbers speak for themselves. India today records around 660 million digital transactions every day, more than the combined populations of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Australia. It has laid more than 4.2 million kilometres of optical fibre, enough to circle the Earth 105 times, and completed more than 177 billion biometric authentications. India has also committed to achieving 500 gigawatts of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030, creating immense opportunities in renewable energy, green hydrogen, battery storage, and climate finance. The opportunity before us is not simply to sell into each others markets, but to build together cleaner energy systems, better infrastructure, stronger digital networks, and the industries of the future. Samsara gin showcased at the event Indian High Commission He said: Talent has always been one of the strongest bridges between India and the UK. Our diaspora, our students, our entrepreneurs, our scientists, and our professionals have connected our societies in ways that no treaty alone could achieve. CETA now provides that human connection with a stronger economic foundation. But it must be understood that economic agreements are not destinations; they are foundations for the future. Their true value lies not only in the text that is signed, but in the opportunities they unlock, the confidence they inspire, and the prosperity they create. The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement marks the beginning of a new phase in our partnership. Rabindranath Tagore wrote, Faith is the bird that feels the light and sings when the dawn is still dark. Today, that light is clearly on the horizon as the India-UK CETA enters into force. Both our countries have every reason to look ahead with confidence. On pressing a button, he appeared in a video where his message was: Today marks a historic milestone in the India-UK partnership as the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement enters into force to help businesses and stakeholders make the most of the opportunities it creates. Im delighted to launch today the India-UK CETA Facilitation Forum on the LinkedIn platform.
The India Meteorological Department issued a fresh weather alert for the nation. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in eleven states including Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Coastal districts of West Bengal will receive heavy showers until June twenty-fourth. Northern districts of West Bengal could experience heavy downpour from July twenty-sixth to twenty-ninth. Light to moderate rain is forecast for sub-Himalayan districts over the next few days.
Suvendu Adhikari's Promise To The Darjeeling HillsDevelopment, Jobs, Respect, But Not A State
Darjeeling toy train accident goes viral after taxi driver claims train was on 'wrong side'
A taxi driver argued with a toy train pilot after a minor collision occurred. The driver claimed the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was on the wrong side of the tracks. Authorities found the vehicle was parked illegally and negligently near the railway line. The taxi was seized and a case was registered against the driver. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway continues to celebrate its heritage and tourism growth.
7 places in India that feel like Europe during monsoon
India has places that look and feel startlingly European when the monsoon arrives. From Coorg's misty coffee estates to Darjeeling's fog-drenched colonial streets and Spiti's cliff monasteries, these seven destinations offer rolling green hills, cool air and dramatic skies. No passport, no long flight, and no currency exchange needed.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Toy Train Day marked at Sukna Heritage Station
The News Mill
Darjeeling tea industry seeks Centre's support amid deepening financial stress
Darjeeling's famed tea industry is facing severe financial strain due to aging bushes, climate woes, and labor shortages, leading to a significant production drop and falling prices. Industry leaders are urging the government for targeted interventions, including a sustainable pricing framework with a Minimum Sustainable Price, and the extension of agricultural and welfare schemes to bolster the sector's long-term viability and resilience.
Guardians of Indigenous Medicine: Tribal Ethnomedicinal Practices of North-East India
Saikat Kumar Basu & Suparna Sanyal Mukherjee The North-East Indian region, comprising Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim, represents one of South Asias richest biocultural landscapes. Biologically and anthropologically linked to the Darjeeling Himalayas of West Bengal, the region is characterised by dense forests, high rainfall, varied altitudes, and exceptional biodiversity. []
Anit Thapa resigns as Chief Executive of GTA
The resignation of Anit Thapa, who was an ally of Trinamool Congress comes a day after West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari visited Darjeeling hills and raised the issue of corruption in the GTA. After the BJP came to power in West Bengal in May 2026, chairperson of several civic bodies including Kolkata Municipal Corporation and Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation had resigned.
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari unveils North Bengal roadmap on first Darjeeling hills visit
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has unveiled a comprehensive development plan for North Bengal. He assured residents of the Darjeeling hills that all central government welfare and development schemes will be delivered effectively. Adhikari stated his government's commitment to transparency in recruitment and inclusive growth across the region. Infrastructure, jobs, and public services will be strengthened.
Monsoon likely to enter north Bengal in three-four days, says IMD
Heavy rainfall is likely over the next two days in the sub-Himalayan districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar
Monsoon Likely To Enter North Bengal In Three-Four Days: IMD
KOLKATA, Jun 8: The IMD on Monday said the southwest monsoon is likely to arrive in West Bengals sub-Himalayan districts like Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Jalpaiguri within the next three to four days. The northern districts of the state are already experiencing pre-monsoon rain with heavy downpour predicted over the next few days. The conditions are favourable for advancement of southwest monsoon into some parts of sub-Himalayan West Bengal within the next three to four days, missing the normal entry date [] The post Monsoon Likely To Enter North Bengal In Three-Four Days: IMD appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Four rescued after car plunges into Teesta River near Sevoke; four dead
NDRF Siliguri teams have successfully rescued four individuals from the Teesta River. The car plunged into the water near Sevoke and Kurseong in Darjeeling district. Among those rescued was a seven-year-old girl. The rescued persons were in critical condition. The incident occurred on Friday, with rescue operations commencing immediately. Further details are awaited regarding the accident and the victims.
Jawaharnagar dacoity: Four more members of Nepali gang held
Hyderabad: Four more people, including two main accused allegedly involved in the Jawaharanagar dacoity case, have been arrested, the police said on Saturday, June 6. The accused have been identified as Meena, Rajesh, Daniel Charoh alias Chang and Kiran. While Meena, Rajesh and Kiran are natives of Nepal, Chang is a native of Darjeeling. Earlier, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Bengal Polls: BJP Leading In 8 Seats, TMC In 2; BGPM Ahead In Kalimpong
KOLKATA, May 4: The BJP was leading in eight assembly constituencies while the TMC was ahead in two, according to early trends available on the Election Commission website, as counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly elections was underway on Monday. The Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM), an ally of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the Darjeeling hills, was leading in Kalimpong. As per EC data, BJP candidate Lakshmi Kanta Sau was leading in Jhargram with 5,156 votes, ahead [] The post Bengal Polls: BJP Leading In 8 Seats, TMC In 2; BGPM Ahead In Kalimpong appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Siliguri Election Results 2026 News: Siliguri, a vital commercial hub in West Bengal's Darjeeling district, held its Assembly elections on April 23, 2026. The constituency, encompassing Siliguri city and its suburbs, saw a voter turnout of 77% in 2021, with Sankar Ghosh of the BJP defeating Omprakash Mishra. In 2016, Asok Bhattacharya of the CPI(M) won with an 81% turnout.
More Indians need to become tea-totallers
A Kolkata tea seller showcases a rare Darjeeling tea. This highlights the unique qualities of Darjeeling tea, often overlooked. Like Champagne, Darjeeling tea faces climate change and competition. More Indians should appreciate this heritage beverage. Better marketing is needed to elevate Darjeeling tea's global standing.
BJP Leader Raju Bista Predicts 170-180 Seats in West Bengal Elections
Gangtok, April 26: Raju Bista, the Lok Sabha MP from Darjeeling and a prominent BJP leader, expressed confidence on Saturday that the party could secure between 170 to 180 seats in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections. He attributed this optimism to a significant shift in voter sentiment. Bista made these remarks while reviewing preparations ... Read more BJP Leader Raju Bista Predicts 170-180 Seats in West Bengal Elections
International Delegates Praise Voting Arrangements in West Bengal Elections
Kolkata, April 23: The first phase of voting in the West Bengal Assembly elections is underway across 152 seats in 16 districts. During this time, international representatives visited several polling stations in Darjeeling district on Thursday, inspecting the ongoing voting process alongside officials from the Election Commission of India (ECI). The polling stations visited by ... Read more International Delegates Praise Voting Arrangements in West Bengal Elections
Assembly polls: Voting begins in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu
Voting began on Thursday in 152 constituencies in the first phase of the West Bengal assembly elections, amid unprecedented security arrangements and a high-stakes battle that could shape the direction of the entire contest. Polling started at 7 am with voters queueing up outside booths in districts ranging from Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri in the north Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Political Tensions Rise Over I-PAC Case as Harsh Vardhan Shringla Criticizes Mamata Banerjee
Darjeeling, April 22: Rajya Sabha member Harsh Vardhan Shringla has launched a sharp attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He referenced the Supreme Courts comments regarding the I-PAC case, stating that the court has indicated that CM Banerjee has jeopardized democracy. Shringla emphasized the importance of this issue for the public, especially with ... Read more Political Tensions Rise Over I-PAC Case as Harsh Vardhan Shringla Criticizes Mamata Banerjee
Amidst the high-pitched campaign for the 2026 West Bengal Assembly polls, tea garden workers have turned out to be an important constituency for political parties; the districts of Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling have about 20 seats, where the fate of the candidates depends on their support to tea garden workers.
Amit Shah Addresses Local Issues and Promises Solutions: MP Raju Bista
Darjeeling, April 21: The political atmosphere in Darjeeling, West Bengal intensified on the last day of election campaigning as Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a large public gathering. This rally was held just before the first phase of voting, which is crucial for the BJP. During the event, party leaders and local allies emphasized ... Read more Amit Shah Addresses Local Issues and Promises Solutions: MP Raju Bista
Amit Shah Issues Warning to TMC Amidst Womens Safety Concerns in Darjeeling
Darjeeling, April 21: On the final day of campaigning for the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections, Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a rally in Darjeeling. He criticized the TMC government, stating that under Mamata Banerjees rule, mothers and sisters have faced significant oppression. Shah remarked that numerous false cases have been filed ... Read more Amit Shah Issues Warning to TMC Amidst Womens Safety Concerns in Darjeeling
BJP to resolve decades-old Gorkha issue within 6 months of forming govt in Bengal: Shah
KURSEONG (WB), Apr 21: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said the decades-old Gorkha issue will be resolved within six months if the BJP forms the government in West Bengal. He said no party other than the BJP could find a solution acceptable to the Gorkhas. Addressing an election rally at Kurseong in Darjeeling district, Shah said the BJP understands the concerns and aspirations of the Gorkhas and would work towards a settlement on their terms. Within six months [] The post BJP to resolve decades-old Gorkha issue within 6 months of forming govt in Bengal: Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Nepal duty checks hit border bazaars from Dharchula to Darjeeling, spark protests
Darjeeling hills to witness multi-pronged contest on diverse issues in 2026 Assembly polls
While the BJP-GJM alliance and the Trinamool-BGPM alliance are clashing head-on, a new hill party by local entrepreneur Ajay Edwards is also making its presence; along with the pertinent issue of Gorkhaland political situation, the issues of development and corruption may sway the electorate this election season
ECI rolls out Democracy Express in Darjeeling to drive voter awareness
The Election Commission of India organised a voter awareness campaign in North Bengal. The iconic Darjeeling toy train was used to encourage participation in elections. A 'Democracy Express' also traveled through Darjeeling, spreading messages of peaceful and fair elections. Cultural programs and a walkathon were part of the outreach. First-time voters were honored.
Voter Awareness Walkathon in Darjeeling Engages Community Enthusiastically
Kolkata, April 17: A vibrant celebration of democracy unfolded in Darjeeling, West Bengal, on Friday morning. Under the Election Commissions SVEEP (Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation) initiative, a voter awareness walkathon was organized, attracting enthusiastic participation from both youth and senior citizens. According to the Election Commissions SVEEP X handle, A large crowd gathered ... Read more Voter Awareness Walkathon in Darjeeling Engages Community Enthusiastically
Voter Awareness Walkathon Celebrated in Darjeeling
Kolkata, April 17: A vibrant celebration of democracy unfolded in Darjeeling, West Bengal, on Friday morning. Under the Election Commissions SVEEP (Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation) program, a lively awareness walkathon took place, attracting enthusiastic participation from both youth and senior citizens. According to the Election Commissions SVEEP X handle, A large crowd gathered ... Read more Voter Awareness Walkathon Celebrated in Darjeeling
Will resolve Gurkha issues as a priority once BJP comes to power in West Bengal, says Amit Shah
The issue of permanent political solution to the Gurkha issue, which essentially means that the administrative control of the Darjeeling hills should wrest with the Gurkha people, has dominated the politics of the Darjeeling hills for several decades since the 1980s
Amit Shah Criticizes Mamata Banerjee for Ignoring Darjeeling Issues
Kolkata, April 15: Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated on Wednesday that the West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has rejected three proposals to discuss the issues faced by the residents of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong over the past year and a half. Due to inclement weather, Shahs helicopter could not land ... Read more Amit Shah Criticizes Mamata Banerjee for Ignoring Darjeeling Issues
Will prioritise resolving Gorkha issue, withdraw cases against leaders after winning Bengal: Shah
Kolkata, Apr 15: Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Wednesday that once the BJP assumes power in West Bengal, it will prioritise resolving the Gorkha issue in Darjeeling and withdraw all cases registered against community leaders and workers for violent agitations in the past. Shah, who was unable to reach the upper reaches of Lebong in the Darjeeling hills on account of unfavourable weather conditions, addressed the gathering through a recorded video message. I am deeply regretful of not [] The post Will prioritise resolving Gorkha issue, withdraw cases against leaders after winning Bengal: Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Amit Shah to Address Four Rallies in West Bengal Amid Upcoming Elections
Kolkata, April 15: Union Home Minister Amit Shah will address four public rallies in West Bengal on Wednesday, coinciding with the Bengali New Year. This comes as the state prepares for two phases of assembly elections later this month. Shahs schedule begins at 11:30 AM with a rally at Lobong Ground in Darjeeling district. He ... Read more Amit Shah to Address Four Rallies in West Bengal Amid Upcoming Elections
Villagers in Bengal Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government
Darjeeling, April 14: As the assembly elections approach in West Bengal, political parties are actively campaigning across the region. Leaders are visiting villages, assuring voters that all promises will be fulfilled upon their victory. However, residents of Haatighisa, a small village near Naxalbari in the Darjeeling district, express a different sentiment. They demand a government ... Read more Villagers in Bengal Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government
Amit Shah Promises Political Solution for Darjeeling Without Separating from Bengal
Kolkata, April 14: Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated on Tuesday that if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) forms a government in West Bengal following the upcoming assembly elections, a permanent political solution will be provided for the hilly regions of Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Kalimpong, without separating them from the state. He emphasized, We will ... Read more Amit Shah Promises Political Solution for Darjeeling Without Separating from Bengal
Residents of Bengal Village Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government
Darjeeling, April 14: As the assembly elections approach in West Bengal, political parties are intensifying their campaigns. Leaders are visiting villages, promising voters that all their commitments will be fulfilled upon victory. However, residents of the small village of Hatighisa, located near Naxalbari in the Darjeeling district, express a different sentiment. They demand a government ... Read more Residents of Bengal Village Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government
