Sikkim Observer

Prateek Bordoloi has withdrawn his candidature from the Margherita Assembly constituency, a day after his father Pradyut Bordoloi joined the Bharatiya Janata Party.

In a letter addressed to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, he said the current situation was not suitable for continuing in the electoral contest. He explained that voters and party workers deserved clarity, and any confusion around his position could affect trust at a crucial time.

Prateek Bordoloi stated that stepping aside was the right decision to avoid mixed signals, especially amid shifting political developments in the state.

Despite withdrawing from the race, he reaffirmed his commitment to the Indian National Congress, saying he would continue to work for the party and contribute to the development of Margherita in any role assigned.

The move is being seen as an effort to maintain organisational clarity within the Congress as Assam heads into a closely watched Assembly election.

Press Release from Forest & Environment Department

THE GOECHA LA- DZONGRI TREK IN KHANGCHENDZONGA NATIONAL PARK AWARDED AS THE BEST TREKKING CIRCUIT

The Goecha La- Dzongri trek in Khangchendzonga National Park has attained significant national recognition at the Outlook Traveller Awards 2025, where the Goecha La–Dzongri Circuit was conferred the Gold Award for “Best Trekking Circuit in India.”
The Goecha La–Dzongri trek starting from Yuksom, is 45 km long seven days high altitude trek, in the Kanchedzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Further, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has conferred a special recognition upon Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP), Sikkim, declaring it as one of the Best Managed Protected Areas in the World.
This distinction affirms the Goecha La–Dzongri route as the leading trekking circuit in the country, positioning it prominently among India’s foremost treks. The award further reinforces Sikkim’s comprehensive ecotourism strategy, particularly its emphasis on responsible, community-led, and environmentally conscious tourism integrated with adventure-based offerings.
The Goecha La- Dzongri trail traverses some of the most pristine Himalayan ecosystems, encompassing dense forests, alpine meadows, and culminating at the high-altitude pass of Goecha La (4,570 m), providing commanding views of the snow-clad Khangchendzonga range. Recognized as one of the premier treks in the Himalayas, the circuit is esteemed for its blend of adventure, altitude, and exceptional natural scenery—qualities that contributed significantly to its national honour.