Ecclesiastical Department

12/09/2026

25/08/2026

Press Release

25 August 2026 | Rimbik, Gyalshing District

In response to the prevailing landslide situation at Rimbik, Gyalshing District, and with the objective of seeking spiritual intervention for the safety and well-being of the local community, a special Shabten ceremony with Sa-chue Bum-ter installation, was performed today, the 25th of August 2026, at Rimbik.

The Shabten was conducted following the religious predictions (Thutak) performed by His Eminence Kyabje Tinkey Gonjang Rinpoche and under the guidance and direction of the Hon’ble Minister, Ecclesiastical Department, Government of Sikkim, Ven. Sonam Lama. The prayers were performed by the monks of Sangchen Pemayangtse Monastery, with the active support and assistance of local volunteers.

As advised by His Eminence Kyabje Gonjang Rinpoche, the Shabten was undertaken as a preventive spiritual measure to pacify the adverse forces and seek protection from further landslide-related incidents, which have been causing considerable concern and hardship to the people residing in the area.

The Hon’ble Minister, Ecclesiastical Department, has been closely concerned with the situation and has emphasised the importance of extending every possible form of support to the affected community. The performance of the Shabten reflects the Department’s efforts to draw upon Sikkim’s rich spiritual and cultural traditions during times of natural adversity, while praying for the safety, protection and well-being of the people.

The Ecclesiastical Department places on record its appreciation to His Eminence Kyabje Tinkey Gonjang Rinpoche for his guidance, the monks of Pemayangtse Monastery for their prayers and religious services, and the local volunteers and community members for their valuable assistance and participation.

The Department further extends its prayers and solidarity to the people of Rimbik and surrounding areas and wishes for the landslide situation to subside and normalcy to return at the earliest.

Previously, Sa-chue Bum-ter was installed and Shapten conducted at the persistent landslide areas of Pathing and Bhaleydunga, Yangang; and 20th Mile, near Bardang, as well.

Ecclesiastical Department
Government of Sikkim

20/08/2026

As per the direction of Hon’ble Minister Ven Sonam Lama and offical of Ecclesiastical Department lead by Deputy Director and other satff ,Sha-Chu-Bhum-Ter Shabten (Landslide Mitigation & Blessing Ritual) at 20th mile Gangtok was conducted on 19/08/2026.
Following the recent massive landslide at 20th Mile that disrupted local movement and posed significant safety hazards.The ritual was performed to spiritually stabilize the terrain, offer prayers for environmental harmony, and seek protection against further natural calamities.
​The officiating monk consecrated a Bhum-ter (sacred treasure vase containing precious stones, grains, and consecrated mantras) to be embedded or offered.
The ceremony concluded successfull. The joint the initiative reflects the continued commitment to blending traditional spiritual practices with community welfare, providing divine protection to the region following the severe landslide at 20th Mile.