Issue #1

Hello, Sikkim!

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Khaas Khabar

In this section we dive a little deeper into what we think is news from last week that matters and deserves a little context.

The dreaded Artificial Intelligence Driven Traffic Management System and e-Challaning is back! Yes, it is meant for improving traffic management and has many other positives like preventing corruption. However, just like humans, tech also glitches. So, the first time this was introduced in Sikkim there was chaos. The system had glitches, people didn't like getting caught and for some it was just unfair. For instance, a section of taxi drivers objected to the many glitches and the hiked tax rates. Oh yes, just before introducing the AI system, the government had amended the Sikkim Motor Vehicles Taxation Act and put into effect a considerable hike in the tax rates. The general public was not happy either and then came the salve or rather a discount offer from the Motor Vehicle Department. The deadline for paying fines was extended by 15 days and violators were given the option of clearing their dues by paying either 50 per cent of the total penalty or ₹20,000, whichever is lower. And that was that.

One hopes this time around there will be no hiccups. Fingers crossed.

Also, why is the system not implemented all year round one wonders.

Also last week...

1. The state witnessed untimely rain from 28 October onwards just when farmers were getting ready to harvest paddy. How badly the rains have affected paddy fields, we are yet to know. The state government and Agriculture Department are collating data as we speak. More on this next week.
2. What began more than a week ago continued this week as women wings of various political parties came forth to condemn derogatory and deeply problematic comments made against a Sikkim Democratic Front woman party worker on social media. However, the actual offence took a backseat as they indulged in what-aboutery, blaming each other of indulging in such base acts.
3. 31 October saw fresh snowfall in many parts of North Sikkim.

Side Note

Last week was full of events or news of events, from football tournaments to singing competitions. One event that we recommend is the Temi Autumn Festival which has just started. [FYI, this is not an advert] The festival promises a lot but even if they can't pull it off, there are always the beautiful cherry blossoms at Temi to enjoy.

That's all for this week. See you next week!

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