Bengali journalist honoured by Sikkim Govt on State Day

This is the first time that the state of Sikkim has instituted such an award for journalism and Kundu is among the four veteran scribes to be awarded by Governor Srinivas Patil and Chief Minister Pawan Chamling at the gala event at Gangtok’s Chintan Bhawan. All these veterans have been serving this profession for over half a century now.

In a career spanning over 50 years, Kundu has served in a number of prestigious media houses. He recently retired as the Special Correspondent for Times of India from Sikkim from where he had been reporting since 1977 when he was first posted as the Bureau Chief of news agency Hindusthan Samachar.

Kundu has recently authored a book titled The Shadow of the Dragon: And Recent Development. The book documents the geopolitical history and current position of Sikkim – from India’s point of view under the constant aggressive stance of China.

Sikkim observes May 16 as the State Day everywhere. In its 43rd year now after becoming a part of India in 1975, the day is marked by honouring various people from all walks of life who played a pivotal role in shaping up the State. Farmers, young entrepreneurs, former bureaucrats, educators etc. were all recognized on this occasion.

Pawan Chamling, who now holds the distinction of being the longest serving Chief Minister of the country (24 years), congratulated every award winner but mentioned “farmers as the number one profession” in his priority list. No wonder as many as 68 farmers were honoured for taking forward the State’s organic-mission.

The State also recognized young entrepreneurs and those who have made it to Civil Services from Sikkim.