Science and Technology Department is organising one day training on AI tools for government officials
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Training Coordinator : Suman Thapa, Director
📧 Email: suman_thapa@rediffmail.com
📱 Phone: +91-94342 35351
Shri. Om Prakash Mathur
Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim
Shri. Prem Singh Tamang
Hon'ble Chief Minister of Sikkim
Shri. Pintso Namgyal Lepcha
Hon'ble Minister
Declining Cardamom and Rising Cancer Cases
The Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim convened a meeting with the Science & Technology Department
High-Altitude Scientific Lake Survey
Experts conduct bathymetric study at South Lhonak
Expedition Team at Gurudongmar Valley
Multi-agency experts assessing high-risk glacial lakes, North Sikkim
Welcome programme for Hon'ble Chairperson and Hon'ble Adivsor
Hon'ble Minister inaugurated the newly renovated Conference Hall along with the launch of the DST Official Website, AI Training programme etc
Inauguration of newly renovated Conference Hall
Hon'ble Minister Shri. Pintso Namgyal Lepcha inaugurated the newly renovated Conference Hall along with the launch of the DST Official Website, AI Training programme etc
Commencement of AI Training for Government Officials
First, Second Batch and Third Batch successfully conducted
Glacial Hazards Meeting at Gangtok
Sikkim Commission on Glacial Hazards Meeting, 2025
Mero Alaichi, Mero Dhan
Using S&T to Revive Large Cardamom in Sikkim
Seminar on Cancer Research and Prevention
Meeting Chaired by Hon'ble Minister
Launching of AR/VR by Hon'ble Minister
Sikkim Science Centre, Marchak
HM Shri Pintso Namgyal Lepcha chairs a high-level meeting
Sikkim Lepcha Traditional Cane Bridge – Ru Soam.
GLOF Mitigation Meeting in NDMA
Discussing GLOF Mitigation Plan for Sikkim
State Innovation Hub, Sikkim Science Centre
Brainstorming session with school students
Launching of E-Office
Science and Technology Department, GoS
What's New
- 08th Oct 2025 : Science to the Rescue: ₹8 Crore Biotech Project to Revive Large Cardamom
- 26th Sept 2025 : Science and Technology, Government of Sikkim is proud to host the National Consultation on Glacial Hazards
- 16th Sept 2025 : EIACP Ecotourism observes World Ozone Day 2025
- 13th Sept 2025 : The Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim convened a meeting with the Science & Technology Department, reviews declining Cardamom and Rising Cancer Cases
- 12th Sept 2025 : Scientific Expedition for Glacial Lake Risk Assessment
- 10th Sept 2025 : 80 State Government officials trained in using AI Tools for DPR Preparation
- 09th Sept 2025 : One-Day Training on AI tools for DPR Preparation - Batch IV, V & VI - Concluded
- 29th Aug 2025 : Inception Workshop on the Documentation of the Sikkim Lepcha tradional Cane Bridge - Ru Soam held at Dzongu, Mangan District, Sikkim
- 22nd Aug 2025 :Training and Sensitization Programme on IPR held at Sikkim Govt College, Namchi
- 20th Aug 2025 : Sikkim Himalayan GLOF Expedition begins from 20th Aug - 10th Sept 2025
- 18th Aug 2025 : Hon'ble Minister inaugurated the newly renovated Conference Hall along with the launch of the DST Official Website, AI Training programme, and Department's Cricket Jersey
- 18th Aug 2025 : Welcome programme for Hon'ble Chairperson and Hon'ble Advisor of Science and Technology Department observed
- One-Day Training on AI tools for Government Officials by Science & Technology Department for Batch I, II & III – Completed
- 11th August - One Day Meeting on Need Assessment and Stakeholders Appraisal
- Cancer Research - Sikkim to be Developed as Model State in Cancer Prevention and Early Detection
- Empowering Future Scientists: Bioinformatics Training for Bioscience Students
- National Space Day 2025 Celebrated in Sikkim with Enthusiasm and Scientific Spirit
- 20th June - DST team Enroute for Rathong Glacier Expedition
- 05th June - Celebration of National Science Day 2025 with the theme : Empowering Indian Youth For Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for Vikshit Bharat
- 4th Meeting of the Sikkim Commission on Glacial Hazards concluded
- Valedictory Programme of 3 Certificate course under GSDP concluded
- e-Office implementation completed
S&T for Society
The South Lhonak lake in Sikkim breached on October 3, causing a glacial lake outburst flood that devastated four districts.
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A major initiative to revive cardamom farming using scientific innovations, launched under the guidance of Hon’ble CM.
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Located in Gangtok, this centre fosters curiosity and education through interactive exhibits as part of NCSM.
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Healing Begins with Understanding: Strengthening Cancer Research in Sikkim for a Better Future
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The Science & Technology Department is working on the documentation and recognition of intangible cultural heritage of Sikkim. .
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News & Features
Recent Activities under Science and Technology
Launching of 3 Green Skill Development Programmes
EIACP Resource Partner on Ecotourism, Sikkim State Council of Science & Technology launched three Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP) certificate courses on 18 January 2025 at Sikkim Science Centre, Marchak: Nature Conservator-cum-Ecotourism Guide, Apiculturist (Wild Bee), and Non-Timber Forest Produce: Bamboo Crafts.
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Science to the Rescue: ₹8 Crore Biotech Project to Revive Large Cardamom
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, has sanctioned a landmark ₹8.06 crore research project to revive Sikkim’s large cardamom.
This heritage crop has long been the backbone of the state’s rural economy.
Over the next three years, this fund will support India’s top biotechnology institutes—ICGEB, NIPGR, IBSD, NABI, and NCBS—to join hands under the national BioE3 Policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Employment, and Environment) to restore the vitality of this iconic crop.
The initiative aligns with the State Government’s flagship mission, “Mero Alaichi, Mero Dhan” (My Cardamom, My Wealth), spearheaded by Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay).
Large cardamom (Amomum subulatum), domesticated centuries ago in Sikkim by the Lepcha community, sustains nearly 20,000 farming families and is regarded as Sikkim’s gift to the world.
Once the driver of rural prosperity, the crop is now in crisis. More than 60% of plantations have turned unproductive, yields have halved, and plant lifespan has plummeted from 15–20 years to just 4–5 years.
This decline has cost rural households nearly ₹318 crore annually, triggering widespread cash distress and threatening a cultural legacy.
The root of the problem lies in clonal propagation through root suckers, which has weakened genetic diversity, leaving plants vulnerable to devastating viral and fungal epidemics. Soil degradation, heavy monsoon leaching, and ineffective interventions such as distributing diseased sucker plants have compounded the crisis. A baseline survey and national expert consultations convened by the Department of Science and Technology confirmed the urgent need for modern biotechnology to address this multi-causal decline. Accordingly, a multi-institutional research project was developed to utilise cutting-edge biotechnology in the revival of large cardamom.
This newly sanctioned DBT project will pioneer advanced solutions—protein- and peptide-based antifungal formulations, lignin-based nano-biopesticides, RNA-based viral management tools, and microbial probiotics—ensuring full compatibility with Sikkim’s organic farming mandate.
These interventions will not only help farmers manage immediate disease challenges but also lay the foundation for long-term genetic improvement and resilience. For the first time, farmers can look forward with hope that their traditional crop will regain its lost strength. This mission is more than agriculture—it is about securing livelihoods, protecting cultural heritage, and demonstrating how cutting-edge science can preserve a Himalayan legacy.
Observation of World Ozone Day 2025
Environmental Information, Awareness, Capacity Building and Livelihood Programme (EIACP) Resource Partner on Ecotourism under Sikkim State Council of Science and Technology observed World Ozone Day 2025 at Sikkim Science Centre, Marchak, on 16th September 2025. The theme for this year’s World Ozone Day was “From Science to Global Action”. It highlights how scientific research on ozone depletion led to international cooperation and effective policies that are now helping to heal the ozone layer. More than 100 students from Biraspati Parsai Govt. Senior Secondary School, Baha’i Senior Secondary School, Saramsa and local public actively participated in the programme.
As part of the observance, invited resource persons delivered presentations on key topics:
- Ms. Usha Lachungpa, Retd. Chief Principal Research Officer, on “Understanding the Ozone Layer”
- Dr. Sanjib Kabi, Assistant Professor, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology, on “Measures to Combat Ozone Depletion”
- Dr. Abdullah Khan, Assistant Professor, Sikkim University, on “Various Conventions on Ozone Depletion”
An interactive session was also conducted to raise awareness among students on the importance of ozone and its vital role in protecting Earth and its life forms. In the concluding session, students were encouraged to spread awareness on the importance of preserving the ozone layer and avoiding the use of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl bromide. These chemicals release chlorine and bromine atoms in the stratosphere, which catalyze the destruction of the protective ozone layer. Such substances are commonly used in products like refrigerators, aerosols, and fire extinguishers.
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Official Announcement - National Consultation on Glacial Hazards
Science and Technology, Government of Sikkim is proud to host the National Consultation on Glacial Hazards a significant platform bringing together experts, researchers, and policymakers to discuss and address the challenges posed by glacial hazards and chart the path towards a resilient and sustainable future.
Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim Reviews Declining Cardamom and Rising Cancer Cases
The Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim, Shri Om Prakash Mathur, convened a meeting with the
Science & Technology Department at Raj Bhavan. The meeting had a detailed discussion on the
Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) 2023 and briefing on the present status of high-risk glacial
lakes in Mangan district.
Principal Secretary Dr. Sandeep Tambe, Director-cum- Secretary Shri Dhiren G Shrestha and
officials briefed the Governor on a recent high-altitude expedition undertaken by an expert team
after the devastating October 2023 South Lhonak Lake outburst. The team surveyed multiple
glacial lakes in Mangan, identifying several as highly vulnerable to future breaches. Continuous
monitoring and field validation are being carried out to scientifically assess the outburst potential
and recommend timely mitigation measures.
The multi-agency team includes experts from the Central Water Commission, Central Water &
Power Research Station Pune, NIH Roorkee, Geological Survey of India, DRDO’s Defence
Geoinformatics Research Establishment, National Institute of Disaster Management, Sikkim
University, six State Government Departments, the Indian Army, ITBP, and local communities.
The Governor expressed deep concern over the risks posed to life, property, and infrastructure
downstream. He assured full support, provided valuable suggestions, and committed to raising
the matter at the Central level for further support. Additionally, Dr. Tambe shared information on
various other initiatives undertaken by the department. He specifically provided detailed insights
into the ongoing research focused on the declining production of large cardamom and alarming
rise in the cancer cases in the state of Sikkim
Scientific Expedition for Glacial Lake Risk Assessment
Following the devastating South Lhonak Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) of October 2023, the Government of Sikkim adopted a Whole-of-Government Approach to assess high-risk glacial lakes and implement mitigation measures. As part of this initiative, a high-altitude scientific expedition was carried out in Mangan District from 20 August to 06 September 2025, bringing together over 35 experts from state technical departments such as DST, DMG, SSDMA, Sikkim Police, DDMA and IPR, along with national scientific institutions including CWC, GSI, CWPRS, NIH, NIDM, DGRE, HP SDMA, HP JSV and Sikkim University. Security agencies such as the Indian Army and ITBP also played a crucial role in providing logistics, communication and field support. The expedition focused on detailed hazard assessments of Shako Chho, Changsang, South Lhonak and Yulhe Khangse lakes through bathymetric, morphometric and geophysical surveys, while also undertaking structural feasibility studies at Dolma Sampa in the Lhonak valley and Sora Funnel in the Gurudongmar valley using UAV-based terrain mapping, DEM analysis and debris deposition studies. Early Warning System (EWS) sites were identified to enable real-time monitoring. These multi-disciplinary efforts are expected to refine GLOF hazard modelling, support the design of retention structures and strengthen the state’s resilience to climate-induced glacial risks while enhancing inter-agency coordination for effective disaster risk reduction in the Himalayas.
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80 State Government officials trained in using AI Tools for DPR Preparation
Leveraging the power of AI tools can help to develop clear, well-structured proposals quickly and effectively. As an initiative in this direction, the Sikkim State Council of Science and Technology, under the Science and Technology Department, conceptualised a one-day training for state government officials titled ‘Smart Proposals, Smarter Governance’. The objective of this training was to equip state government officials to use various AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gamma AI, Napkin AI, and Canva AI Magic Studio for drafting proposals, presentations, and data analysis. The technical sessions were conducted by Dr. Prativa Rai, Assistant Scientific Officer (Master Resource Person), along with Kishore Gautam, Niraj Sharma, and Ujal Gautam as Technical Resource Persons. Following this training, the participants developed DPRs on their department-related topics using these AI tools and also presented them. As on date, a total of 7 batches comprising 80 officials from 23 departments including senior officials have completed this training successfully. The programme received an aggregate feedback rating of 4.7 out of 5, reflecting its success and relevance. With rising interest, more departments are registering for future batches. The Science and Technology Department plans to expand such initiatives to the district level in future.
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Sikkim to be Developed as Model State in Cancer Prevention and Early Detection
Cancer cases in Sikkim have been rising at an alarming rate. The Government of Sikkim is committed to supporting every citizen in the fight against cancer. Over the past few months, following the priority and guidance of Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), Hon’ble Chief Minister, to emphasize cancer care in Sikkim, the Department of Science and Technology and the Health and Family Welfare Department have been collaborating closely. Cancer data from Sikkim over the last decade was thoroughly analyzed, revealing unique patterns related to cancer incidence, type, ethnicity, and spatial distribution specific to the state. This analysis was presented with the Department of Health Research and the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, along with a request to implement state-specific interventions for cancer care in Sikkim. Following this, based on a request from the State Government, the Department of Health Research, Government of India, organised an expert consultation titled “Expert Consultation on Cancer Prevention and Control in Sikkim,”at the India International Centre, New Delhi on 28th July, 2025. The consultation was chaired by Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary of the Department of Health Research and DG of ICMR. The consultation was attended by leading cancer experts from across the country, representing the ICMR, AIIMS, Tata Memorial Hospital, NICPR, NCDIR, other institutions, senior officials from the Department of Biotechnology, GoI, along with officials from the Department of Science and Technology and the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Sikkim. During this event, it was collectively decided to develop Sikkim as a model state for cancer prevention and early detection.It was also agreed to prioritise four cancers with high incidence in the state, namely stomach, oesophageal, breast, and cervical. Based on detailed deliberation, three priority areas were identified:
- Innovative Research on Localised Cancer Pathways: Action research on diagnostics,genomics, gut microbiota, metabolomics, and ethnographic studies to decode the unique cancer landscape in Sikkim.
- Statewide Cancer Awareness and Behaviour Change Campaign: Launch of a comprehensive education campaign to address key risk factors such as diet, alcohol, tobacco, etc. and promote cancer literacy.
- Early Detection through Population-Based Screening: Implementation of proactive, community-level screening programmes targeting high-incidence cancers to detect and treat them early.
- Recognising Sikkim’s impressive record in public health innovation and service delivery, it was decided that Sikkim is ideally positioned to be developed as a model state in the country for cancer prevention and detection. To implement this strategic plan, three subgroups comprising national and state-level experts are being formed to co-develop a comprehensive proposal within a month, which will be funded through a centre-state partnership mode. This is not just a health initiative. It is a commitment to save lives, build resilient communities, and make Sikkim a beacon of hope in the fight against cancer.
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Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs)
The Sikkim State Council of Science & Technology (SSCS&T), under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), is the nodal department for Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in Sikkim. The IPR Wing is committed to fostering innovation and safeguarding intellectual creations across the region.
Our Objectives
- Create awareness and sensitization on the importance of IPR.
- Provide technical support for filing patents, trademarks, GIs, and plant varieties.
- Preserve and promote traditional knowledge systems of Sikkim.
- Offer financial and technical aid to local inventors.
Our Initiatives
- Conducted 50+ IPR workshops, seminars, and camps across Sikkim.
- Established 10 IPR Cells in schools, colleges, and universities.
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Facilitated GI registration for:
- Sikkim Lepcha Hat (Sumok Thyaktuk)
- Sikkim Temi Tea
- Sikkim Orange
- Seremna variety of Large Cardamom
- Registered a new plant variety under PPV&FRA, 2001.
- Supported young local inventors financially to promote creativity.
Upcoming GI Projects
- Chyadung Byasu (local maize flakes)
- Sikkim Orange Juice
- Thokro
List of IPR Awareness Programs Conducted
| SN | Program Title | Location | District |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Outreach program on IPR | Khamdong GVK | - |
| 2 | IPR awareness program | Pakyong GVK | - |
| 3 | Awareness program on IPR | Ravangla GVK | - |
| 4 | IPR sensitization program | Yangyang GVK | - |
| 5 | Outreach program on IPR | Namthang GVK | - |
| 6 | Awareness program on IPR | Sumbuk GVK | - |
| 7 | IPR awareness program | Dentam GVK | West Sikkim |
| 8 | IPR awareness program | Hee-Yangthang Sr. Sec. School | West Sikkim |
| 9 | IPR awareness program | PNGSS School, Gangtok | East Sikkim |
| 10 | IPR awareness program | Govt. Sr. Sec. School, Mangan | North Sikkim |
| 11 | Outreach programme on IPR | Govt. Girls’ Sr. Sec. School, Deorali | East Sikkim |
| 12 | Outreach program on IPR | Govt. Sr. Sec. School, Tadong | East Sikkim |
| 13 | Sensitization program on IPR | Govt. Sr. Sec. School, Bojoghari | East Sikkim |
| 14 | IPR awareness workshop | Sikkim Govt. College, Namchi | South Sikkim |
| 15 | IPR awareness program | Lingdem, Dzongu | North Sikkim |
| 16 | IPR awareness program | Passingdang, Dzongu | North Sikkim |
List of Articles
| SN | Article Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | Traditional Culture & Intellectual Property Rights |
| 2 | Trademark as a tool for strengthening services sector |
| 3 | World Intellectual Property Day |
Geographical Indication (GI) Initiatives in Sikkim
1. Sikkim Temi Tea & Sikkim Orange
A meeting on the status of GI registration for Sikkim Temi Tea and Sikkim Orange was held on 5th January 2016 at Vigyan Bhawan, Deorali, Gangtok. The meeting was chaired by the Principal Secretary, DST&CC and attended by representatives from S.Majumdar & Co. (legal attorneys from Kolkata), including Shri Monosij Mukherjee, and key stakeholders from Sikkim such as Shri Ravi Kumar, IFS (Managing Director), Shri Mohan Chamling from Sikkim Tea Estate, and Shri H.C. Pradhan, Additional Director (Fruits) from the Horticulture & Cash Crop Development Department (HC&CCDD), Government of Sikkim. All required documents were submitted to the attorney assigned by TIFAC at Kolkata. The stakeholders are currently awaiting a response and further action from the legal representatives.
2. Sikkim Dzongu Lepcha Hat (Sumuk Thyaktuk) & Darri (Thokro)
For the GI registration of traditional Lepcha crafts — Sikkim Dzongu Lepcha Hat (Sumuk Thyaktuk) and Lepcha Darri (Thokro) — the Patent Information Centre (PIC) is currently seeking additional financial support to continue the registration process and legal proceedings.
