Rotary Club of Gangtok

14/11/2025

The Denzong Khorlo, the official bulletin of the Rotary Club of Gangtok for the period July to September 2025, was formally released today during the Club’s weekly meeting. The launch took place in the presence of Club members marking yet another step in our ongoing effort to document and share the initiatives, activities, and achievements of the Rotary fraternity in Gangtok. The bulletin continues to serve as an important platform for highlighting the Club’s work and strengthening communication within the Rotary community.

31/10/2025

08/09/2025

Installation and Inauguration of the World’s Highest Bio-Toilet Installed by a Rotary Club at Kupup, East Sikkim

07/09/2025

Rotary Club of Gangtok Inaugurates World’s Highest Bio-Toilet at Old Baba Mandir, Kupup, East Sikkim

Kupup, East Sikkim – 6th September 2025

The Rotary Club of Gangtok today marked a historic milestone by inaugurating the world’s highest bio-toilet facility installed by any Rotary Club anywhere in the world, at Old Baba Mandir, Kupup, East Sikkim, situated at an altitude of over 4,110 metres above sea level. This pioneering initiative is not only a matter of pride for Rotary in India but also a global benchmark in sustainable sanitation and environmental stewardship.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Brig Jha, Mr. Tashi Wangyal, IGP, Law and Order, Sikkim Police, and Rtn. Naresh Agarwal, President (2025–2026), Rotary Club of Gangtok, who jointly inaugurated the bio-toilet block for public use. Distinguished dignitaries, members of the armed forces, local community representatives, Rotarians, and visitors had gathered to witness this landmark achievement.

Speaking on the occasion, Rtn. Dr. Yogesh Verma (Past District Governor) of Rotary Club of Gangtok emphasized the significance of the project:
“This bio-toilet stands as a testament to Rotary’s commitment towards sustainable development, public health, and environmental conservation. To achieve this at such a high altitude, in difficult terrain and challenging climatic conditions, reflects the dedication and perseverance of our team specially Rtn. Aswin Oberoi & Rtn. Gurpreet S. Dhunna. This project will benefit thousands of soldiers, pilgrims, and tourists who visit this revered site every year.”

Significance of the Project
1. World Record Achievement – This installation has officially become the highest bio-toilet ever set up by any Rotary Club in the world, symbolizing Rotary’s ability to break new frontiers in service.
2. Support for Defence & Pilgrims – The Old Baba Mandir, dedicated to the revered soldier Saint Baba Harbhajan Singh, attracts both pilgrims and tourists throughout the year. It is also an important post for the Indian Army. The bio-toilet will directly support soldiers and civilians in maintaining hygiene in this remote location.
3. Environmental Protection – Unlike conventional toilets, the bio-toilet system ensures waste decomposition through bacterial processes, preventing water contamination and preserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
4. Tourism & Public Health Boost – By addressing sanitation concerns at a popular tourist destination, this project will enhance visitor experience while safeguarding public health.

Journey of the Project
The project was the culmination of years of planning, coordination, and dedication. Rotary Club of Gangtok worked tirelessly to overcome logistical challenges, including transporting materials to high altitudes, adapting the design to withstand extreme temperatures, and liaising with the Indian Army and local administration for smooth ex*****on.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the project was formally handed over to the Indian Army posted at the Old Baba Mandir, ensuring its proper use and long-term maintenance.

Special acknowledgment was given to Rtn. Aswin Oberoi & Rtn. Gurpreet S. Dhunna (Rotary Club of Gangtok) and Rtn. Dr. Arijit Banerjee (Ramaesis Realty Pvt. Ltd, Kolkata) whose relentless efforts made the project a reality.

Rotary’s Vision
The Rotary Club of Gangtok has consistently worked towards impactful community service projects in Sikkim, ranging from healthcare and education to environment-friendly initiatives. This project reinforces Rotary’s vision of creating sustainable solutions that improve lives while protecting nature.

The Club announced that similar eco-friendly sanitation facilities will be explored at other high-altitude locations to further promote hygiene and responsible tourism in the Himalayan region.

03/09/2025

Sikkim Express 2nd September 2025

31/08/2025

Sikkim Express 31st August 2025

31/08/2025

UDAAN 2025 – The Flight of Creativity
Organised by Rotary Club of Gangtok & Inner Wheel Club of Gangtok

The Rotary Club of Gangtok and the Inner Wheel Club of Gangtok, two leading NGOs committed to uplifting education and creating avenues for extracurricular growth under the banner of TEACH, successfully organised their flagship mega event UDAAN – The Flight of Creativity on 18th August 2025 at the Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology, Majhitar.

Now in its 12th edition, UDAAN has become one of the most awaited events in the academic calendar of Sikkim, steadily growing in scale and importance since its inception in 2011. What began as a modest initiative to encourage creativity has today evolved into a state-wide festival of learning, talent, and youthful energy.

This year’s edition saw enthusiastic participation from 120 schools across the state, including distant regions like Mangan, Chujachen, Soreng, and Pelling. A record 1,800 students from Classes II to XII participated across three categories – Junior, Middle, and Senior – with competitions designed to challenge intellect, creativity, and expression.

The events included:
• Juniors (Class II–IV): Spell Bee, Let’s Converse, Speed Maths, Quiz
• Middles (Class V–VIII): Monoact, Maths Magic, Word Power, Sports Quiz
• Seniors (Class IX–XII): Poster Making, Creative Writing, Quiz, Projects

The event was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister congratulated the organisers for consistently hosting Udaan since 2011 and lauded it as a remarkable platform to nurture talents beyond classrooms and textbooks. He expressed delight at the participation of nearly 1,800 students from 120 schools, and emphasised that festivals like Udaan inspire children to explore their potential through diverse competitions.

Highlighting the importance of education, creativity, and perseverance, the Chief Minister urged students to remain resilient in the face of challenges. He reflected on how past generations had limited resources, digital tools, or guidance, and therefore called upon schools to introduce career counselling sessions regularly, to guide today’s youth in an era of limitless opportunities.

He further underscored key initiatives of the State Government in empowering the younger generation, including the Chief Minister’s Education Assistance Scheme (CMEAS), NB Bhandari Fellowship Programme, APATAN Fellowship Programme, the Q&I Learning platform, and various PhD fellowship programmes. He added that financial aid for professional courses such as MBBS, pilot training, and engineering is also being provided to ensure that no student in Sikkim is deprived of education due to financial constraints.

The Chief Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to enhancing the educational experience, fostering holistic development, and promoting personal growth and self-improvement for every student. He also felicitated schools from remote areas that had come forward to participate in UDAAN, commending their spirit of inclusion.

On behalf of the organising committee, Chairman of UDAAN 2025, Dr. Neeti Nepal, congratulated the Chief Minister for being recognised as the Best Performing Chief Minister among small states in India, and praised his dedicated efforts across multiple sectors. She further highlighted that UDAAN has become a truly inclusive platform, bringing together students from both government and private schools, from urban as well as rural areas, to showcase their creativity, knowledge, and skills.
To commemorate the milestone 12th edition, the Hon’ble Chief Minister released a souvenir during the event.

The event was also attended by several dignitaries, including:
• Shri Raju Basnet, Hon’ble Minister of Education, Sports & Youth Affairs and Law & Parliamentary Affairs Departments, Government of Sikkim
• Shri Sanjeet Kharel, Hon’ble MLA
• Shri Jacob Khaling, Political Secretary to Hon’ble Chief Minister
• Smt. Tshering Palden Bhutia, Deputy Mayor, Gangtok Municipal Corporation
• Shri Sandeep Malu, Councillor, Gangtok Municipal Corporation
• Shri Tshering Wangchuk Lepcha, Asst. Political Advisor (East) to Hon’ble Chief Minister
• Shri Chopel Sherpa, Chairman, Students Welfare Board
• Shri Tashi Chopel, Secretary, Education Department, Government of Sikkim
• Shri Rohan Agawane, District Collector, Pakyong District
• Ms. Paru Ruchal, Senior Superintendent of Police, Pakyong District
• Ms. Sujata S***a, SDM, Rangpo
• Dr. Sangita Jha, Director cm Incharge, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology, Majhitar
• Dr G. L. Sharma, Vice Chancellor, SRM University
• Dr. Karma Sherpa, Officiating Vice Chancellor cm Registrar, Sikkim Manipal University

After a day of vibrant competitions, the Champions of Champions trophies were awarded to:
• Juniors: St. Francis School, Jorethang
• Middles: Manjushri Public School
• Seniors: Manjushri Public School

UDAAN 2025 has once again reaffirmed its place as a unique platform where creativity meets academics, bringing together thousands of students across Sikkim in the spirit of healthy competition, learning, and unity.

Issued by:
Rtn. Prakash Mundra
PRO cm Editor (25 - 26) - Rotary Club of Gangtok
For Rotary Club of Gangtok & Inner Wheel Club of Gangtok

30/08/2025

Rotary Club of Gangtok Contributes Fans to Ranipool Shanti Stahl Committee for Jalipool Cremation Area

Gangtok, August 29, 2025: The Rotary Club of Gangtok, in its continued endeavour to serve the community and improve public facilities, has contributed eight ceiling fans to the Ranipool Shanti Stahl Committee for installation at the cremation area in Jalipool.

This noble gesture was made possible through the benevolence of Shri Pankaj Agarwal and his family, who donated the fans to the Rotary Club of Gangtok in loving memory of his late father, Mr. Balkishan Agarwal. The Club, recognising the need for basic amenities at the cremation ground, facilitated the handover so that these fans could be installed for the comfort of families and visitors who gather to perform the last rites of their loved ones.

The initiative also resonates deeply with the Club’s longstanding association with Shanti Stahl. Many years ago, the Rotary Club of Gangtok had constructed a waiting shed at the cremation ground, one of its significant community service projects at the time. The waiting shed provided shelter and comfort to bereaved families and continues to serve the public to this day. With the addition of these fans, the Club has once again reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining dignity and solace at a place where families come together in moments of grief.

Representatives of the Rotary Club of Gangtok expressed gratitude to Shri Pankaj Agarwal and his family for their thoughtful contribution, noting that such acts not only enhance public facilities but also serve as a lasting tribute to loved ones who inspire service to humanity.

The Ranipool Shanti Stahl Committee welcomed the initiative, appreciating the support which will greatly improve the environment at Jalipool cremation area, especially during large gatherings in the summer months.

The Rotary Club of Gangtok remains committed to its mission of “Service Above Self” and will continue to work hand in hand with local institutions, donors, and community groups to address needs that touch the lives of citizens.

24/08/2025

Sikkim Express Newspaper 24th August 2025
Page 2

23/08/2025

Rotary Club of Gangtok Celebrates 57 Glorious Years of Service Above Self

Gangtok, Sikkim – The Rotary Club of Gangtok, chartered on 22 August 1968, proudly celebrated its 57th Charter Anniversary on 22 August 2025 at a local hotel in Gangtok. The celebration brought together Rotarians, dignitaries, and friends of Rotary to honor more than five decades of humanitarian service, fellowship, and community leadership.

The evening was further enriched with the induction of a new member, Rtn. Sherab Choden, whose joining marks a fresh chapter of growth and vitality for the Club.

The 57th anniversary celebration was filled with reflection, gratitude, and a renewed pledge to serve. Members shared stories of impact and reiterated the Club’s guiding principle of “Service Above Self.”

Looking ahead, the Rotary Club of Gangtok is committed to deepening its engagement in education, health, sanitation, disaster relief, and sustainable community development, ensuring that its service reaches the most vulnerable sections of society.

A Legacy of Impactful Projects
For 57 years, the Rotary Club of Gangtok has been a pioneer in initiatives that uplift lives, strengthen communities, and bring sustainable change. Some of its noteworthy projects include:
• Shanti Sthal – Establishment of a dignified cremation resting shed for those who go to perform the last rites of their loved ones at Jalipool.
• Two Room Classroom Block at Bojoghari Sr. Sec. School – Constructed to expand educational opportunities for students.
• Construction of Kitchen, Mid Day Meal Eating Shed, Handwashing Area, and Clean Drinking Water Station at Bhojoghari Sr. Sec. School – Enhancing health, nutrition, and sanitation infrastructure for students.
• Adampul Junior High School transformed into a Happy School – With separate toilets for girls and boys, a multipurpose room, painting of the school building, benches in the ground, drinking water, and a hand washing station.
• Work at the Tibetan Settlement, Ravangla – The Club extended its support towards education, health, and welfare initiatives in the settlement. A state-of-the-art Computer Centre was established with 10 computers, internet access, and photocopy facilities. To ensure proper use of the centre, the Club also employed a computer teacher for one year, after which the facility was formally handed over to the community for self-management. Additionally, to address the acute water scarcity in the area, a new waterline was laid and multiple water storage tanks were installed, providing much-needed relief to the residents.
• COVID-19 Relief Work – In coordination with the Government of Sikkim, the Club distributed essential supplies, PPE kits, and food rations during the pandemic to people of Sikkim working outside the state, especially in far-flung areas of Maharashtra and Kerala.
• Library at Sir Tashi Namgyal Sr. Sec. School – Providing students access to resources that encourage literacy and lifelong learning.
• Relief Work After the Flash Flood of 2023 – Providing emergency support to affected families across Sikkim with food, tarpaulins, and medicines.
• Installation of Bio-Toilets – Promoting sanitation and environmental responsibility at Baba Mandir, Kupup, and ATTC, Bardang.

Some Of The Signature Programs and Projects of Rotary Club of Gangtok
• Udaan – A pan-Sikkim school-level competition aimed at inspiring students and fostering both academic and creative excellence among the youth of Sikkim. Over the past 15 years (with a two-year pause during the Covid period), it has evolved into a prestigious and eagerly awaited platform for schools across the state. Organized in collaboration with the Inner Wheel Club of Gangtok, this year’s 12th edition of Udaan will be held on 31st August 2025 at SMIT, Majhitar, in a grand manner, with around 1,500 students from nearly 95 schools participating.
• WinS (Wash In Schools) – A life-changing hygiene education campaign that promotes safe and sustainable sanitation habits among school children.
• CALMED (Collaborative Action in Lowering Maternity Deaths) – A pioneering program aimed at reducing maternal mortality in Sikkim. Under this initiative, 13 leading gynaecologists from the state were trained as Master Trainers by an international team of experts. These Master Trainers then cascaded the knowledge by training numerous health workers across the state. The program employed advanced teaching tools such as simulators and mannequins, along with hands-on training in the use of anti-shock garments for maternal care. This comprehensive and innovative approach played a pivotal role in drastically reducing Sikkim’s maternal mortality rate to a remarkable single-digit figure.
• Disaster Relief with Compassion – The Club extended support by donating tarpaulins to landslide victims in various years of natural calamities, working with other Rotary Clubs to ensure timely assistance.
• Community Education & Health – Ongoing participatory programs and outreach efforts that address vital local needs in health, education, and empowerment.

About Rotary Club of Gangtok
The Rotary Club of Gangtok, chartered on 22nd August 1968, is one of the oldest and most active non-governmental service organizations in Sikkim. Formed under the guidance of Rotary International District 325, the Club brings together professionals, business leaders, and community members committed to the Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self.” Over the decades, it has carried out impactful projects in education, healthcare, sanitation, and disaster relief, touching countless lives across Sikkim and beyond.

From setting up classrooms, libraries, and bio-toilets in schools and tourist places, to supporting disaster relief during landslides, flash floods, and the COVID-19 pandemic, Rotary Gangtok has consistently addressed pressing community needs. Signature initiatives such as Udaan, WinS, and CALMED showcase its focus on empowering youth, improving health, and promoting sustainable practices. With its strong legacy and active presence, the Rotary Club of Gangtok continues to inspire positive change and community development in the region.

Rotary Club of Gangtok was formed under the patronage of the Chogyal of Sikkim, Shri P. T. Namgyal under Rotary International guidelines with the following office bearers:
• President: Rtn. R. N. Haldipur
• Vice President: Rai Bahadur Athing Sonam Tobden
• Hony. Secretary: Rtn. Madan M. Rasaily
• Jt. Secretary: Rtn. L. H. Hartnett

It is also pleasing to inform that the following are Honorary Members of the Club:
• Shri Indra Hang S***a, Hon’ble Member of Parliament
• Shri Aditya Golay, Hon’ble MLA

For more information and updates on ongoing projects, visit:
🌐 www.rotarygangtok.org
📌 Facebook: Rotary Club of Gangtok

29/07/2025

Sikkim Express 29th July 2025

58th Installation Ceremony Coverage