7th edition oct, 2017
TRANSCRIPT
Designed By
Vikas Dhiman
I quote the Wikipedia page for air quality in Delhi
“In November 2016, in an event known as the Great smog of Delhi, the air pollution spiked far beyond acceptable levels. Levels of PM2.5 and PM 10 particulate matter hit 999 micrograms per cubic meter, while the safe limits for those pollutants are 60 and 100 respectively “
PM2.5 is considered the most dangerous particle and Delhi had seen 20 times more particle in the recent time.
In general, the below is quoted for our capital in many blogs and surveys:
“A busy road or a highway is equivalent to Hitler's gas chamber! .“
So bad is the air quality in Delhi that living in Delhi is said to be equal to smoking twenty plus cigarettes every single day.
And this is not just about the outdoors, the indoors aren’t safe either.
Stating the above clear and alarming facts, I welcomed and appreciated the decision of the Supreme Court of India to ban sales of crackers in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) till after Diwali. This is not the first time that the Hon’ble Supreme Court as the ultimate protector of the Constitution of India has sought to regulate the pollution levels in Delhi-NCR and has taken tough measures for safeguarding life of the people.
I am not supporting the fact that crackers are the only cause for our air quality, but there is a very famous proverb “Little goes a long way”. Industrial and vehicular pollution contribute nearly 85% to Delhi pollution but does it not provide us with all facilities and luxuries. Can we live without electricity in today’s world if it’s produced from burning of coal? Undisputedly the situation is grave and options are limited. Keeping in mind this and Delhi’s last year’s after Diwali affects all should support it.
Although, the protests from traders are understandable, the protests from certain quarters that the ban is ‘anti-Hindu,’ beats logic. The argument of these people is that we are banning a Hindu tradition. For them, let me iterate, Diwali is the festival of lights – the lights to mark the anniversary of the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya and at a philosophical level to mark the ascendance of light over darkness (Tamaso Ma Jyotirgamaya). Bursting of crackers is in no way an integral part of Diwali. Diwali signifies victory of good over evil.
I would like our readers to conclude further on what bursting crackers is doing good considering the entire high decibel noises complemented with air quality degradation.
Every bit matters!
Darshana Singh
How we celebrate Diwali in different parts of the countryHow we celebrate Diwali in different parts of the countryHow we celebrate Diwali in different parts of the country
ARTICLE OF THE MONTH
In North India, the celebrations of Diwali start with Dussehra, where Ramlila, a dramatic rendition of the story of the Ramayan is depicted. It continues for several nights ending with the defeat of Ravana (Evil) by Ram (Good).
In Himachal Pradesh and Punjab people celebrate and light their houses with candles and diyas. In Delhi, UP and other surrounding areas, houses are decorated with candles, lights, diyas, bandhanwars and rangolis. Laxmi puja is performed at night.
Eastern India
The basic rituals remain the same in Eastern India, which include lighting of lamps, candles, diyas, along with bursting of crackers. In fact, some people keep the doors of their houses open so that Goddess Lakshmi can enter. Houses are brightly lit because of the belief that Goddess Lakshmi does not enter a house which is dark.
West Bengal and Assam: In West Bengal, Laxmi Puja is celebrated six days after Durga Puja. Diwali is celebrated as Kali puja. Late night worshipping of Goddess Kali is done on Diwali night. There are Kali Puja pandals in various areas. Other rituals remain the same.
Odisha: Like West Bengal, in Odhisa too, Diwali festival is marked with paying tributes to forefathers. “oh our ancestors, seers and gods, you came on the dark night of Mahalaya, and now it is time for you to depart for heaven, so we are showing light, may you attain peace in abode of Jagannatha!”
Western India
Gujarat
Western India is mostly associated with business and trade. Few days before Diwali, the markets of Western India are crowded with Diwali shoppers. In Gujarat, on the night before Diwali, Gujaratis create colorful rangolis in front of their houses. Rangoli is an integral part of Diwali in all states in Western India. Footprints are also drawn to welcome Goddess Laxmi. On Diwali, houses are brightly lit. For Gujaratis, Diwali is New Year.
Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, Diwali is celebrated for 4 days. Vasubaras is the first day and is celebrated by performing an Aarti of the cows and calves. This signifies the love between a mother and her baby. The next day is Dhanteras or Dhanatrayodashi, which is celebrated in the same way as in other regions. On the third day, Narakchaturdashi, people take scented oil bath early morning and visit a temple. After this, the Maharashtrians feasts on a special Diwali preparation consisting of delicious sweets like “karanji” and “ladoo” and spicy eatables like “chakli” and “sev”.
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Southern India
Diwali is celebrated in the Tamil month of aipasi (which is thula month), also ‘naraka chaturdasi’ thithi. This day precedes the amavasai day. In south India, Naraka chaturdashi is the main day of the Diwali celebrations. One day before the main day, the oven is cleaned, and then it is smeared with lime. Religious symbols are drawn on the oven, filled with water and this is used on the main day for the oil bath. People wash their homes and decorate them with kolam designs, which are similar to rangolis
Andhra Pradesh
Harikatha or the musical narration of the story of Lord Hari is performed in many areas. It is believed that Lord Krishna’s consort Satyabhama had actually killed demon Narakasura. Therefore, prayers are offered to special clay idols of Satyabhama. Rest of the celebrations is similar to those observed in other southern states.
Karnataka
On the first day, which is the day of Ashwija Krishna Chaturdashi, people take oil bath. There is a belief that Lord Krishna took oil bath to remove the blood stains from his body after killing Narakasura. Bali Padyami is the third day of Diwali when women sketch colourful rangolis in their houses and build forts from cow dung. There are stories associated with King Bali that are celebrated on this day. In Karnataka, these are two main days of Diwali.
The celebrations may be different but as all the festivals, this one also enhances the spirit of India.
-Kindle Team
Mundra LPG Terminal Private Ltd. (MLTPL)
Erection of TG, ACC and AQC Boiler is complete. Erection of PH Boiler is under progress. The site activities
along with piping, electrical & instrumentation work are in full swing. Entire team is working towards
achieving the erection targets set before it.
Substation, Security Cabin, Driver Amenity S&D buildings foundation works started
Firewater Tank foundation work started
Inputs to 60% model review.
HAZOP conducted on 4th Oct2017
LOI & PO placed for the Major Packages
KOM Conducted for the Major packages
Review of Vendor documents started
Recovery plan under preparation for catch up the delays in Engineering.
SPOTLIGHTSPOTLIGHTSPOTLIGHT
07
Installation of all mechanical equipment have been completed
Piping work in advance stage of completion
Pre-commissioning of all utility systems have been completed
Commissioning of DCS,PLC, PA & UPS systems have been completed
charging of Substation is completed and motor trial run is in progress
Candid Conversation with Mr. Subhasish BhattacharjeeCandid Conversation with Mr. Subhasish BhattacharjeeCandid Conversation with Mr. Subhasish Bhattacharjee Interviewer(s): Ankit Kumar & Shakshi Arora
Had you not been in this profession, what would have been your alternate career?
I love my profession the most. But still, if other alternate options can be thought of, then it could have been
teaching profession particularly related to Economics.
Which personality do you admire the most and why?
Amitabh Bachchan, Big bull Mr Rakesh Jhun Jhunwala and Mr. Ramdev Agarwal are the personalities I admire the most. The reason for liking them is that all of them are very humble and down to earth.
What kind of personality you were in your teenage?
During my school and college days, I was very calm , quiet and disciplined.
We would like to know about your family.
I come from a small town called Ranchi in
Jharkhand. My father used to work in Hindalco
mines, near Ranchi. My mother was a home
maker. I spent my childhood mostly in the hilly
areas surrounded by natural and scenic beauty.
My wife is a Doctor by profession. We are
blessed with 2 wonderful kids. Son has gradu-
ated in Chemical engg. and daughter is studying in class 12th. I have 2 brothers and 1 sister.
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Zodiac - Taurus
What would your autobiography be called ?
Can’t say. But if SIL Kriti would like to give the name, it could be
“The sophist”, meaning the wise man.
Engineering Skills or Management Skills? According to you, which is more important for an EPC
organization’s success?
At the end of the day, both skills are important, because both go hand in hand. In initial phases of career,
development of technical skill is more important but as you move up on the corporate ladder , managerial
skills take precedence as decision making is more important in an EPC environment.
Your message for our readers.
Pursue your passion and do it with full vigor.
Your advice to schools to ensure safety of children.
School safety is a burning issue these days and lots of efforts are being made by Delhi Govt. to ensure the safety of school children. I suggest following measures –
1st – Follow ministry and govt. guidelines on school safety 2nd –Adequate no. of guards and CC TV camera should be deployed in the school premises 3rd – School transport should be under strict supervision of school authorities
Your Hobbies : Watching business news channels, understanding the present
economic condition of the country and travelling.
Favorite Cuisine : Italian (Non—Veg)
Favorite Holiday Destination : International—Venice, Rome, Paris; Domestic - Hill Stations
Favorite Actor : Amitabh Bachchan
Favorite Actress : Hema Malini/Rekha
Which comedian is your favorite and why?
Rajpal Yadav according to me is my comedy hero because he is the one who connects to masses and comes
from a very humble and low profile background.
The India Water Week The India Water Week The India Water Week
Water is the harbinger and sustainer of all life on the planet, especially the humankind. With the growing
population and improvement in economic status, the demand for available water resources is also
increasing. As a result, there is an urgency to conserve and utilize the limited availability of water resources
in an optimum and efficient manner to satisfy larger needs.
The India Water Week 2017 was held
between October 10 – 14, 2017 at
Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi. Various con-
ferences and exhibitions involving
week.
gy for Inclusive Growth,” India Water
Week-2017 was a platform to elicit ide-
as and opinions from global-level deci-
sion makers, politicians, research-
water resources development and
goodwill.
Background:
India water week is a unique platform for deliberating all the related issues and better management of
water resources created by the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.
The government has involved all stakeholders including decision makers, politicians, researchers and
entrepreneurs of water resources from India as well as abroad to discuss strategies for managing the
demands and supplies in the right manner.
The first event was organized in New Delhi in 2012 and the theme was ‘Water, Energy and Food Security:
Call for Solutions’.
Why we need a week for that:
“Let us value and treasure water as we value and treasure life itself”
It is a common and small subject for everyone to read and go through but Water is the lifeline of our civiliza-
tion. Without it, there is no hope of sustaining households, industries, food and energy production, or such
key functions as hospitals. Access to safe water is necessary in order to implement the global development
agenda.
Why we need a week to discuss something, we are already aware about. Because, with increasing scarcity,
we must recognize the many values attached to water, be it economic, social, environmental, cultural or re-
ligious. I believe that by re-valuing water, we will develop a deeper understanding and respect for this pre-
cious resource, and thus be better prepared for more efficient use.
A growing global population is creating a higher demand for fresh water. Climate-driven changes in weather
patterns, leading to extended droughts and devastating floods, further exacerbate pressure on our common
water resources.
“Efficient use, therefore, is not an option but a must to ensure availability for all of us,”
Another focus of World Water Week is the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In a filmed message to World Water Week by United Nations was on the need to accelerate progress to-
wards SDGs on clean water and sanitation and on all the water-related sustainable development goals.
Today, strains on water are rising in all regions and climate change is aggravating the challenge. When water
is unequally shared, or perceived to be, the risk of local and national conflict increases. We are even seeing
in some cases the use of water as a weapon of war.
The priority now is to harness national leadership and global partnership to scale up action. Only by ensuring
the sustainability of fresh water and access to sanitation for all will we achieve the SDGs.
“We cannot afford to continue to do what we did yesterday and expect to see a different result
tomorrow. We must be bold!”
11 Supriya Chandaiya
WakeWakeWake---up call on sleep apneaup call on sleep apneaup call on sleep apnea
Unless our bed partner is disrupting our sleep, most of us don’t think of snoring as something to be overly
concerned about. But frequent, loud snoring may be a sign of sleep apnea, a common and potentially
serious disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts as you sleep. If pauses occur while you
snore, and if choking or gasping follow the pauses, these are major signs that you have sleep apnea.
Unless our bed partner is disrupting our sleep, most of us don’t think of snoring as something to be overly
concerned about. But frequent, loud snoring may be a sign of sleep apnea, a common and potentially
serious disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts as you sleep. If pauses occur while you
snore, and if choking or gasping follow the pauses, these are major signs that you have sleep apneaAnother
common sign of sleep apnea is fighting sleepiness during the day, at work, or while driving. You may find
yourself rapidly falling asleep during the quiet moments of the day when you're not active. While obstruc-
tive sleep apnea can be common in children, it’s not always easy to recognize. In addition to continuous
loud snoring, children with sleep apnea may adopt strange sleeping positions and suffer from bedwetting,
excessive perspiration at night, or night terrors.
If you think you might have sleep apnea, go to a sleep specialist. Treatment is necessary to avoid heart
problems and other complications, for people with sleep apnea, the combination of disturbed sleep and
oxygen starvation may lead to hypertension, heart disease and mood and memory problems. Sleep apnea
also increases the risk of drowsy driving. For milder cases of sleep apnea, doctor may recommend only
lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or quitting smoking. If these measures don't improve your signs and
symptoms or if your apnea is moderate to severe, a number of other treatments are available. Certain
devices can help open up a blocked airway. In other cases, surgery may be necessary.
With CPAP (Continuous Positive Airways Pressure), the air pressure is somewhat greater than that of the
surrounding air, and is just enough to keep your upper airway passages open, preventing apnea and snoring.
CPAP devices are lighter, quieter, and more comfortable.
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Dr. Manav Manchanda, Senior consultant, Respiratory, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine
TECHNICAL SECTIONTECHNICAL SECTIONTECHNICAL SECTION
What is HAZOP ?
HAZOP- an abbreviated term of “HAZards and OPerability”- is defined as: “The application of a formal sys- tematic critical examination of the process and engineering intentions of the new facilities, to assess the hazard potential of mal-operation or malfunction of individual items of equipment and the consequent effects on the facility as a whole”. It is a rigorous examination to the process and engineering facets of a process facility, based on “guide- words” to help provoke thoughts about the way deviations from the intended operating conditions can lead to hazardous situations or operability problems. Objectives of HAZOP
The objective of HAZOP is to assess the hazard potential of mal-operation or malfunction of equipment and the consequent effects on the facility. It attempts to identify how a process may deviate from the design in- tent. The emphasis in the HAZOP study is on identifying potential problems, not necessarily on solving them. However, if a solution is obvious during the study, it is recorded or incorporated immediately while the study is in progress. The HAZOP was developed with the purpose of reducing the chances of overlooking disturbances when con- ducting the review of Process/Utility Engineering Flow Scheme and Piping and Instrument Diagrams (P&IDs) which could lead to a hazardous situation or operability issues, especially in the design of: Plants involving new processes or significantly altered processes that introduce significant inventory of
toxic or flammable materials, where little practical experience is available; Modern refinery or gas plant processes operating at extreme temperatures and pressures, where the
consequences of a failure are likely to be more serious than on older facility; Complex modification of an existing plant that affects multiple piping circuits and large number of equip-
ment items; or could take the process or system outside of safe operating limit. Concept of HAZOP
The HAZOP study takes a full description of the process, systematically questions every part of it to discover how deviation from the design intent can occur and decides whether these deviations can give rise to haz- ards. The questioning is focused in turn on every part of the design (Node). Each node is subjected to a num- ber of deviations formulated around a set of guide-words. Having examined one part of the design and rec- orded any potential hazards associated with it, the study progresses to focus on the next part of the design. The examination is repeated until the whole process or section intended to study. The HAZOP team is composed of individuals representing a variety of departments/specialties. This multidis- ciplinary team concept allows the various viewpoints of the team members to stimulate the thinking of the other team members and results in creative thinking. Consequently, a more thorough review is achieved than would occur if members of the team individually reviewed the same process.
Guide Words
These are simple words, used to qualify the design intention of the equipment, in order to guide and stimu- late the creative thinking process and so discover deviation from these intentions. The list of typical guide words is given in Table 1 below:
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HAZOP Team Composition
A HAZOP team comprises a Leader (Chairman), a Scribe (Recorder) and team members. Leader: the person who leads and facilitates the HAZOP study by asking questions of the team. Scribe: the person who records the discussions (worksheet) Members: who represent of each of the key disciplines involved in the facility such as Process design,
Operations, Control & Instrument, Safety, etc. Team members provide essential inputs and discussions to HAZOP study as per their knowledge and experience of the process under study.
Typical documents needed for HAZOP Study
Process Flow Diagram (PFS or PFD)
Description of the process
Process Calculations
Process Datasheets
Instrument Datasheets
Layout Requirements
Courtesy : Instrumentationtools.com
Vikas Dhiman
cious company is its ability to
make the most efficient use
of its resources-Material, Hu-
learning how to do this. Our
outcomes, our strategies, and
best practices, standards and
technologies. It is always
wrong to say about achieving
absolute success. It is entire-
ly correct however, to say that we are persistently moving, evolving and rising in the right direction. None
of our success shall be fortuitous but rather the result of systematic, deliberate action taken by our man-
agement.
Keeping that progressive agenda in mind, Mr. Rakesh Verma and undersigned took a visit to Russia (from
23rd to 29th Oct’17) to explore the ways how to fit into the market we serve.
To maneuver the mission
of human connection for
success in business, Mr.
Khimia Exhbition
a “Guest of Honor”. The
subject was very relevant
ship, Challenges to answer.
Besides providing the op-
portunity to meet other people who share our common interests, it has given the renewed motivation to
pursue our goals and enthusiasm rekindled.
Delivering speech during “Indo-Russian Seminar” in Moscow.
Distinguished guests at “Indo-Russian Seminar” in Moscow.
SIL HIGHLIGHTSSIL HIGHLIGHTSSIL HIGHLIGHTS
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Simon India has signed an MOU with JSC NIUIF, Russia to provide a significant competitive leg up and
solutions in the field of Phosphoric Acid, DAP/NPK fertilizers and Sulphuric Acid to Indian subcontinent.
NIUIF is Russia’s only specialized research institute focusing on the development of new technologies and of
existing inorganic acids and fertilizers. JSC «NIUIF» provides the whole complex of works in the areas of
production of fertilizers (DAP/NPK), feed and technical grade salts, sulphuric and phosphoric acids, mining
and beneficiation of raw materials. There are more than 40 fertilizer production plants, developed by NIUIF,
in Russia and around the world.
In year 2002, NIUIF was incorporated into PhosAgro group, a Russian vertically integrated company and one
of the world’s leading producers of phosphate-based fertilizers. Its core line of business is the production of
phosphate-based fertilizers, high-grade phosphate rock (P2O5>39%), and also feed phosphates, nitrogen
fertilizers and ammonia.
The Company is Europe’s largest producer of phosphate-based fertilisers, the world’s largest producer of
high-grade phosphate rock and the world’s second largest producer (excluding China) of MAP and DAP,
Russia’s only producer of feed mono calcium phosphate (MCP), and also the sole producer of nepheline
concentrate in Russia.
During MOU signing ceremony at Volkhov, Russia on 27th Oct’17.
Alliances between companies, whether they are from different parts
of the world or different ends of the supply chain, are a fact of life in
business today. In business environment these days alliances are
becoming essential building blocks for companies to achieve more
effective and efficient market place, so that each benefits from the
strengths of the other, and gains competitive advantage. Strategic
tie-ups propagated as formalized relationships, particularly among
companies in international business, seek to achieve organizational
objectives better through collaboration than through competition.
I call it a company’s collaborative advantage. During MOU signing ceremony at
Volkhov
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Got the chance to visit few installations of PhosAgro during MOU signing ceremony. PhosAgro –Cherepovets
is located in the industrial capital of Russia’s north, The Cherepopvets giant processes more than 3 million
tons of phosphate rock annually making it Russia’s largest exporter of phosphate based fertilizers. Apart
from it, phosphoric Acid, Sulphuric acid, Anhydrous liquid ammonia, aluminum fluoride, mono-ammonium
phosphate (MAP); white and colored di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) and complex fertilizer plant is
operating from that region. To fuel that massive capacity, it has the power plant of 134 MW making it 90%
self-sufficient in energy requirement.
Metachem, Volkhov (now part of PhosAgro Group) was established in December 2003 after the split-up of
the Volkhov Aluminium Refinery into chemical and metals production. The business unites chemical units
involved in different aspects of the production process.
Metachem is the only sodium tripolyphosphate producer in Russia, manufacturing products with different
specifications in line with customer requirements.
It uses the only production system in Russia that makes it possible to obtain granulated potassium sulphate
from a machine – drum dryer granulator.
The enterprise is a major exporter of sodium tripolyphosphate and potassium sulphate to countries in West-
ern Europe, Asia, South America and Africa. Metachem leverages a key advantage in terms of geographical
location (extensive network of highways and located near a major railway junction), and also proximity to
the producers of the main raw materials required in production. Proximity to the seaport of St. Petersburg
(distance to port: 130 km) makes it possible to ship in sea containers in any direction.
Besides it has Phosphoric Acid production facilities at Volkhov.
During plant visit at Volkhov
Anil Sharma
SIL HIGHLIGHTSSIL HIGHLIGHTSSIL HIGHLIGHTS
Motivational Program conducted at CQP-Gujrat site on 28th Oct 2017 to encourage workers
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Showcase
Shayari
,
!!
,
!!
By Qasim ‘s Friend
21 By:- Mohd. Qasim
Govardhan by Aalok Bansal
SIKKIM- Small but Beautiful State
When Dussehra holidays were on our door step, I decided to look at the beautiful eastern part of our country
and planned to spend the long weekend in Sikkim. On Saturday morning 30th September I reached Bagdogra
airport from Delhi. The aerial view before landing at Bagdogra Airport and the beauty of the clearly
demarcated paddy fields is mesmerizing. Bagdogra in West Bengal is the nearest airport to Gangtok. Sikkim
doesn't have a functional airport or railway station. The nearest railway station is therefore New Jalpaiguri, in
West Bengal. I had booked a taxi to Gangtok, after 5
hours of drive alongside the Teesta River, I reached the
sweet little town and probably the cleanest - Gangtok.
Sikkim offers breathtaking views at every turn. From
the glacier lake Tsongmo to the capital city of Gangtok,
Sikkim offers a range of experiences for travellers. The
beautiful monasteries with their carved interiors,
sprawling tea estates and rolling hills, reminded me of
a painting by Van Gogh.
After a night of blissful sleep in Hotel Udaan Yashshree,
I headed out the next morning to take a walk down the
lanes of Gangtok Places to Visit in Gangtok Rangpo -
Rangpo is where you finally enter Sikkim after West
Bengal. Rangpo is a major rest stop and most tourists stop here for brief refreshment before continuing the
journey forward. Moving ahead you can see some really
picturesque terrace farms blanketing the hills. Just about the
perfect place to get down and capture some amazing shots.
Do Drul Chorten - The most popular stupa in Sikkim, Do Drul
Chorten was built in 1945 by a Tibetan Buddhist named
Trulshik Rinpoche and is famous for the gold plated steeple
atop the Chorten. Surrounded by 108 prayer wheels on which
Buddhist mantras have been engraved, monks and tourists
swirl the wheels, which is equivalent to completing 108 beads
of recital. Tashi Viewpoint – Located 4 kilometres from Gangtok, the Tashi Viewpoint is one of the
best places to go to with a pair of binoculars. From here, you get the perfect view of the snow-covered peaks
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of Kanchenjunga, Phodong and Labrang monasteries.
Tsuk La Khang Monastery - The Tsuklakhang Royal Chapel and Monastery is a palatial monastery in Gangtok.
The imperial chapel, located in the palace grounds, is the centre for prayers and also has an impressive
collection of Buddhist scriptures and literature. The
monastery also hosts several Buddhist festivals
through the year such as Phang Lhabsol and the
Tibetan New Year. If you happen to visit during any of
the festivals you must go to see the famous mask
dances that are performed by the monks here.
Solophok Chardham - The pilgrim centre is
constructed on top of the Solophok Hill in South
Sikkim which is about 5 kilometers from Namchi
town.
The entire complex is divided into four main ele-
ments, namely (1) Shiva Statue with 12 Jyotirlingas, (2) Four Dhams, (3) Sai Baba Temple and (4) Kirateshwar
statue besides Nandi bull, Sai dwar, Sai Temple, Kirat dwar, Kirateshwar Statue, Shiv Dwar etc. This pilgrim-
age centre has been dedicated and designed to place Sikkim in the very conscience, heart and minds of the
citizens of India and beyond.
Samdruptse - Samdruptse literally means 'wish fulfilling hill' in the Bhutia language. Situated near Namchi in
South Sikkim, it is at a distance of 75 kms from Gangtok. A unique, awe inspiring and gigangtic 135 feet high
statue of Guru Padamasambhava is installed atop Sampruptse. It is the highest statue of Guru
Padamasambhava in the world. His Holiness the Dalai Lama laid the foundation stone of the statue in
October 1997. It took nearly three years to complete the statue.
Buddha Park (Sakyamuni Project), Rabong - 2006 marked the 2550th birth anniversary of Lord Gautama
Buddha. The state government in a policy decision had decided to observe the birth anniversary throughout
the year in Sikkim. As a part of the celebrations, an initiative was taken by the people of Rabong to construct
and install a statue of Lord Buddha at Rabong ,to commemorate the 2550th year, and also to develop the
Buddhist Circuit in Sikkim.
The trip had all the ingredients for a must visit place, the beautiful landscape, the religious
monuments and an awesome weather.
Out and out it was a mesmerizing experience and like they say that all good things must come
to an end so does a holiday. Supriya Chandaiya
23
Vikas Dhiman
I quote the Wikipedia page for air quality in Delhi
“In November 2016, in an event known as the Great smog of Delhi, the air pollution spiked far beyond acceptable levels. Levels of PM2.5 and PM 10 particulate matter hit 999 micrograms per cubic meter, while the safe limits for those pollutants are 60 and 100 respectively “
PM2.5 is considered the most dangerous particle and Delhi had seen 20 times more particle in the recent time.
In general, the below is quoted for our capital in many blogs and surveys:
“A busy road or a highway is equivalent to Hitler's gas chamber! .“
So bad is the air quality in Delhi that living in Delhi is said to be equal to smoking twenty plus cigarettes every single day.
And this is not just about the outdoors, the indoors aren’t safe either.
Stating the above clear and alarming facts, I welcomed and appreciated the decision of the Supreme Court of India to ban sales of crackers in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) till after Diwali. This is not the first time that the Hon’ble Supreme Court as the ultimate protector of the Constitution of India has sought to regulate the pollution levels in Delhi-NCR and has taken tough measures for safeguarding life of the people.
I am not supporting the fact that crackers are the only cause for our air quality, but there is a very famous proverb “Little goes a long way”. Industrial and vehicular pollution contribute nearly 85% to Delhi pollution but does it not provide us with all facilities and luxuries. Can we live without electricity in today’s world if it’s produced from burning of coal? Undisputedly the situation is grave and options are limited. Keeping in mind this and Delhi’s last year’s after Diwali affects all should support it.
Although, the protests from traders are understandable, the protests from certain quarters that the ban is ‘anti-Hindu,’ beats logic. The argument of these people is that we are banning a Hindu tradition. For them, let me iterate, Diwali is the festival of lights – the lights to mark the anniversary of the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya and at a philosophical level to mark the ascendance of light over darkness (Tamaso Ma Jyotirgamaya). Bursting of crackers is in no way an integral part of Diwali. Diwali signifies victory of good over evil.
I would like our readers to conclude further on what bursting crackers is doing good considering the entire high decibel noises complemented with air quality degradation.
Every bit matters!
Darshana Singh
How we celebrate Diwali in different parts of the countryHow we celebrate Diwali in different parts of the countryHow we celebrate Diwali in different parts of the country
ARTICLE OF THE MONTH
In North India, the celebrations of Diwali start with Dussehra, where Ramlila, a dramatic rendition of the story of the Ramayan is depicted. It continues for several nights ending with the defeat of Ravana (Evil) by Ram (Good).
In Himachal Pradesh and Punjab people celebrate and light their houses with candles and diyas. In Delhi, UP and other surrounding areas, houses are decorated with candles, lights, diyas, bandhanwars and rangolis. Laxmi puja is performed at night.
Eastern India
The basic rituals remain the same in Eastern India, which include lighting of lamps, candles, diyas, along with bursting of crackers. In fact, some people keep the doors of their houses open so that Goddess Lakshmi can enter. Houses are brightly lit because of the belief that Goddess Lakshmi does not enter a house which is dark.
West Bengal and Assam: In West Bengal, Laxmi Puja is celebrated six days after Durga Puja. Diwali is celebrated as Kali puja. Late night worshipping of Goddess Kali is done on Diwali night. There are Kali Puja pandals in various areas. Other rituals remain the same.
Odisha: Like West Bengal, in Odhisa too, Diwali festival is marked with paying tributes to forefathers. “oh our ancestors, seers and gods, you came on the dark night of Mahalaya, and now it is time for you to depart for heaven, so we are showing light, may you attain peace in abode of Jagannatha!”
Western India
Gujarat
Western India is mostly associated with business and trade. Few days before Diwali, the markets of Western India are crowded with Diwali shoppers. In Gujarat, on the night before Diwali, Gujaratis create colorful rangolis in front of their houses. Rangoli is an integral part of Diwali in all states in Western India. Footprints are also drawn to welcome Goddess Laxmi. On Diwali, houses are brightly lit. For Gujaratis, Diwali is New Year.
Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, Diwali is celebrated for 4 days. Vasubaras is the first day and is celebrated by performing an Aarti of the cows and calves. This signifies the love between a mother and her baby. The next day is Dhanteras or Dhanatrayodashi, which is celebrated in the same way as in other regions. On the third day, Narakchaturdashi, people take scented oil bath early morning and visit a temple. After this, the Maharashtrians feasts on a special Diwali preparation consisting of delicious sweets like “karanji” and “ladoo” and spicy eatables like “chakli” and “sev”.
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Southern India
Diwali is celebrated in the Tamil month of aipasi (which is thula month), also ‘naraka chaturdasi’ thithi. This day precedes the amavasai day. In south India, Naraka chaturdashi is the main day of the Diwali celebrations. One day before the main day, the oven is cleaned, and then it is smeared with lime. Religious symbols are drawn on the oven, filled with water and this is used on the main day for the oil bath. People wash their homes and decorate them with kolam designs, which are similar to rangolis
Andhra Pradesh
Harikatha or the musical narration of the story of Lord Hari is performed in many areas. It is believed that Lord Krishna’s consort Satyabhama had actually killed demon Narakasura. Therefore, prayers are offered to special clay idols of Satyabhama. Rest of the celebrations is similar to those observed in other southern states.
Karnataka
On the first day, which is the day of Ashwija Krishna Chaturdashi, people take oil bath. There is a belief that Lord Krishna took oil bath to remove the blood stains from his body after killing Narakasura. Bali Padyami is the third day of Diwali when women sketch colourful rangolis in their houses and build forts from cow dung. There are stories associated with King Bali that are celebrated on this day. In Karnataka, these are two main days of Diwali.
The celebrations may be different but as all the festivals, this one also enhances the spirit of India.
-Kindle Team
Mundra LPG Terminal Private Ltd. (MLTPL)
Erection of TG, ACC and AQC Boiler is complete. Erection of PH Boiler is under progress. The site activities
along with piping, electrical & instrumentation work are in full swing. Entire team is working towards
achieving the erection targets set before it.
Substation, Security Cabin, Driver Amenity S&D buildings foundation works started
Firewater Tank foundation work started
Inputs to 60% model review.
HAZOP conducted on 4th Oct2017
LOI & PO placed for the Major Packages
KOM Conducted for the Major packages
Review of Vendor documents started
Recovery plan under preparation for catch up the delays in Engineering.
SPOTLIGHTSPOTLIGHTSPOTLIGHT
07
Installation of all mechanical equipment have been completed
Piping work in advance stage of completion
Pre-commissioning of all utility systems have been completed
Commissioning of DCS,PLC, PA & UPS systems have been completed
charging of Substation is completed and motor trial run is in progress
Candid Conversation with Mr. Subhasish BhattacharjeeCandid Conversation with Mr. Subhasish BhattacharjeeCandid Conversation with Mr. Subhasish Bhattacharjee Interviewer(s): Ankit Kumar & Shakshi Arora
Had you not been in this profession, what would have been your alternate career?
I love my profession the most. But still, if other alternate options can be thought of, then it could have been
teaching profession particularly related to Economics.
Which personality do you admire the most and why?
Amitabh Bachchan, Big bull Mr Rakesh Jhun Jhunwala and Mr. Ramdev Agarwal are the personalities I admire the most. The reason for liking them is that all of them are very humble and down to earth.
What kind of personality you were in your teenage?
During my school and college days, I was very calm , quiet and disciplined.
We would like to know about your family.
I come from a small town called Ranchi in
Jharkhand. My father used to work in Hindalco
mines, near Ranchi. My mother was a home
maker. I spent my childhood mostly in the hilly
areas surrounded by natural and scenic beauty.
My wife is a Doctor by profession. We are
blessed with 2 wonderful kids. Son has gradu-
ated in Chemical engg. and daughter is studying in class 12th. I have 2 brothers and 1 sister.
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Zodiac - Taurus
What would your autobiography be called ?
Can’t say. But if SIL Kriti would like to give the name, it could be
“The sophist”, meaning the wise man.
Engineering Skills or Management Skills? According to you, which is more important for an EPC
organization’s success?
At the end of the day, both skills are important, because both go hand in hand. In initial phases of career,
development of technical skill is more important but as you move up on the corporate ladder , managerial
skills take precedence as decision making is more important in an EPC environment.
Your message for our readers.
Pursue your passion and do it with full vigor.
Your advice to schools to ensure safety of children.
School safety is a burning issue these days and lots of efforts are being made by Delhi Govt. to ensure the safety of school children. I suggest following measures –
1st – Follow ministry and govt. guidelines on school safety 2nd –Adequate no. of guards and CC TV camera should be deployed in the school premises 3rd – School transport should be under strict supervision of school authorities
Your Hobbies : Watching business news channels, understanding the present
economic condition of the country and travelling.
Favorite Cuisine : Italian (Non—Veg)
Favorite Holiday Destination : International—Venice, Rome, Paris; Domestic - Hill Stations
Favorite Actor : Amitabh Bachchan
Favorite Actress : Hema Malini/Rekha
Which comedian is your favorite and why?
Rajpal Yadav according to me is my comedy hero because he is the one who connects to masses and comes
from a very humble and low profile background.
The India Water Week The India Water Week The India Water Week
Water is the harbinger and sustainer of all life on the planet, especially the humankind. With the growing
population and improvement in economic status, the demand for available water resources is also
increasing. As a result, there is an urgency to conserve and utilize the limited availability of water resources
in an optimum and efficient manner to satisfy larger needs.
The India Water Week 2017 was held
between October 10 – 14, 2017 at
Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi. Various con-
ferences and exhibitions involving
week.
gy for Inclusive Growth,” India Water
Week-2017 was a platform to elicit ide-
as and opinions from global-level deci-
sion makers, politicians, research-
water resources development and
goodwill.
Background:
India water week is a unique platform for deliberating all the related issues and better management of
water resources created by the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.
The government has involved all stakeholders including decision makers, politicians, researchers and
entrepreneurs of water resources from India as well as abroad to discuss strategies for managing the
demands and supplies in the right manner.
The first event was organized in New Delhi in 2012 and the theme was ‘Water, Energy and Food Security:
Call for Solutions’.
Why we need a week for that:
“Let us value and treasure water as we value and treasure life itself”
It is a common and small subject for everyone to read and go through but Water is the lifeline of our civiliza-
tion. Without it, there is no hope of sustaining households, industries, food and energy production, or such
key functions as hospitals. Access to safe water is necessary in order to implement the global development
agenda.
Why we need a week to discuss something, we are already aware about. Because, with increasing scarcity,
we must recognize the many values attached to water, be it economic, social, environmental, cultural or re-
ligious. I believe that by re-valuing water, we will develop a deeper understanding and respect for this pre-
cious resource, and thus be better prepared for more efficient use.
A growing global population is creating a higher demand for fresh water. Climate-driven changes in weather
patterns, leading to extended droughts and devastating floods, further exacerbate pressure on our common
water resources.
“Efficient use, therefore, is not an option but a must to ensure availability for all of us,”
Another focus of World Water Week is the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In a filmed message to World Water Week by United Nations was on the need to accelerate progress to-
wards SDGs on clean water and sanitation and on all the water-related sustainable development goals.
Today, strains on water are rising in all regions and climate change is aggravating the challenge. When water
is unequally shared, or perceived to be, the risk of local and national conflict increases. We are even seeing
in some cases the use of water as a weapon of war.
The priority now is to harness national leadership and global partnership to scale up action. Only by ensuring
the sustainability of fresh water and access to sanitation for all will we achieve the SDGs.
“We cannot afford to continue to do what we did yesterday and expect to see a different result
tomorrow. We must be bold!”
11 Supriya Chandaiya
WakeWakeWake---up call on sleep apneaup call on sleep apneaup call on sleep apnea
Unless our bed partner is disrupting our sleep, most of us don’t think of snoring as something to be overly
concerned about. But frequent, loud snoring may be a sign of sleep apnea, a common and potentially
serious disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts as you sleep. If pauses occur while you
snore, and if choking or gasping follow the pauses, these are major signs that you have sleep apnea.
Unless our bed partner is disrupting our sleep, most of us don’t think of snoring as something to be overly
concerned about. But frequent, loud snoring may be a sign of sleep apnea, a common and potentially
serious disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts as you sleep. If pauses occur while you
snore, and if choking or gasping follow the pauses, these are major signs that you have sleep apneaAnother
common sign of sleep apnea is fighting sleepiness during the day, at work, or while driving. You may find
yourself rapidly falling asleep during the quiet moments of the day when you're not active. While obstruc-
tive sleep apnea can be common in children, it’s not always easy to recognize. In addition to continuous
loud snoring, children with sleep apnea may adopt strange sleeping positions and suffer from bedwetting,
excessive perspiration at night, or night terrors.
If you think you might have sleep apnea, go to a sleep specialist. Treatment is necessary to avoid heart
problems and other complications, for people with sleep apnea, the combination of disturbed sleep and
oxygen starvation may lead to hypertension, heart disease and mood and memory problems. Sleep apnea
also increases the risk of drowsy driving. For milder cases of sleep apnea, doctor may recommend only
lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or quitting smoking. If these measures don't improve your signs and
symptoms or if your apnea is moderate to severe, a number of other treatments are available. Certain
devices can help open up a blocked airway. In other cases, surgery may be necessary.
With CPAP (Continuous Positive Airways Pressure), the air pressure is somewhat greater than that of the
surrounding air, and is just enough to keep your upper airway passages open, preventing apnea and snoring.
CPAP devices are lighter, quieter, and more comfortable.
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Dr. Manav Manchanda, Senior consultant, Respiratory, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine
TECHNICAL SECTIONTECHNICAL SECTIONTECHNICAL SECTION
What is HAZOP ?
HAZOP- an abbreviated term of “HAZards and OPerability”- is defined as: “The application of a formal sys- tematic critical examination of the process and engineering intentions of the new facilities, to assess the hazard potential of mal-operation or malfunction of individual items of equipment and the consequent effects on the facility as a whole”. It is a rigorous examination to the process and engineering facets of a process facility, based on “guide- words” to help provoke thoughts about the way deviations from the intended operating conditions can lead to hazardous situations or operability problems. Objectives of HAZOP
The objective of HAZOP is to assess the hazard potential of mal-operation or malfunction of equipment and the consequent effects on the facility. It attempts to identify how a process may deviate from the design in- tent. The emphasis in the HAZOP study is on identifying potential problems, not necessarily on solving them. However, if a solution is obvious during the study, it is recorded or incorporated immediately while the study is in progress. The HAZOP was developed with the purpose of reducing the chances of overlooking disturbances when con- ducting the review of Process/Utility Engineering Flow Scheme and Piping and Instrument Diagrams (P&IDs) which could lead to a hazardous situation or operability issues, especially in the design of: Plants involving new processes or significantly altered processes that introduce significant inventory of
toxic or flammable materials, where little practical experience is available; Modern refinery or gas plant processes operating at extreme temperatures and pressures, where the
consequences of a failure are likely to be more serious than on older facility; Complex modification of an existing plant that affects multiple piping circuits and large number of equip-
ment items; or could take the process or system outside of safe operating limit. Concept of HAZOP
The HAZOP study takes a full description of the process, systematically questions every part of it to discover how deviation from the design intent can occur and decides whether these deviations can give rise to haz- ards. The questioning is focused in turn on every part of the design (Node). Each node is subjected to a num- ber of deviations formulated around a set of guide-words. Having examined one part of the design and rec- orded any potential hazards associated with it, the study progresses to focus on the next part of the design. The examination is repeated until the whole process or section intended to study. The HAZOP team is composed of individuals representing a variety of departments/specialties. This multidis- ciplinary team concept allows the various viewpoints of the team members to stimulate the thinking of the other team members and results in creative thinking. Consequently, a more thorough review is achieved than would occur if members of the team individually reviewed the same process.
Guide Words
These are simple words, used to qualify the design intention of the equipment, in order to guide and stimu- late the creative thinking process and so discover deviation from these intentions. The list of typical guide words is given in Table 1 below:
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HAZOP Team Composition
A HAZOP team comprises a Leader (Chairman), a Scribe (Recorder) and team members. Leader: the person who leads and facilitates the HAZOP study by asking questions of the team. Scribe: the person who records the discussions (worksheet) Members: who represent of each of the key disciplines involved in the facility such as Process design,
Operations, Control & Instrument, Safety, etc. Team members provide essential inputs and discussions to HAZOP study as per their knowledge and experience of the process under study.
Typical documents needed for HAZOP Study
Process Flow Diagram (PFS or PFD)
Description of the process
Process Calculations
Process Datasheets
Instrument Datasheets
Layout Requirements
Courtesy : Instrumentationtools.com
Vikas Dhiman
cious company is its ability to
make the most efficient use
of its resources-Material, Hu-
learning how to do this. Our
outcomes, our strategies, and
best practices, standards and
technologies. It is always
wrong to say about achieving
absolute success. It is entire-
ly correct however, to say that we are persistently moving, evolving and rising in the right direction. None
of our success shall be fortuitous but rather the result of systematic, deliberate action taken by our man-
agement.
Keeping that progressive agenda in mind, Mr. Rakesh Verma and undersigned took a visit to Russia (from
23rd to 29th Oct’17) to explore the ways how to fit into the market we serve.
To maneuver the mission
of human connection for
success in business, Mr.
Khimia Exhbition
a “Guest of Honor”. The
subject was very relevant
ship, Challenges to answer.
Besides providing the op-
portunity to meet other people who share our common interests, it has given the renewed motivation to
pursue our goals and enthusiasm rekindled.
Delivering speech during “Indo-Russian Seminar” in Moscow.
Distinguished guests at “Indo-Russian Seminar” in Moscow.
SIL HIGHLIGHTSSIL HIGHLIGHTSSIL HIGHLIGHTS
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Simon India has signed an MOU with JSC NIUIF, Russia to provide a significant competitive leg up and
solutions in the field of Phosphoric Acid, DAP/NPK fertilizers and Sulphuric Acid to Indian subcontinent.
NIUIF is Russia’s only specialized research institute focusing on the development of new technologies and of
existing inorganic acids and fertilizers. JSC «NIUIF» provides the whole complex of works in the areas of
production of fertilizers (DAP/NPK), feed and technical grade salts, sulphuric and phosphoric acids, mining
and beneficiation of raw materials. There are more than 40 fertilizer production plants, developed by NIUIF,
in Russia and around the world.
In year 2002, NIUIF was incorporated into PhosAgro group, a Russian vertically integrated company and one
of the world’s leading producers of phosphate-based fertilizers. Its core line of business is the production of
phosphate-based fertilizers, high-grade phosphate rock (P2O5>39%), and also feed phosphates, nitrogen
fertilizers and ammonia.
The Company is Europe’s largest producer of phosphate-based fertilisers, the world’s largest producer of
high-grade phosphate rock and the world’s second largest producer (excluding China) of MAP and DAP,
Russia’s only producer of feed mono calcium phosphate (MCP), and also the sole producer of nepheline
concentrate in Russia.
During MOU signing ceremony at Volkhov, Russia on 27th Oct’17.
Alliances between companies, whether they are from different parts
of the world or different ends of the supply chain, are a fact of life in
business today. In business environment these days alliances are
becoming essential building blocks for companies to achieve more
effective and efficient market place, so that each benefits from the
strengths of the other, and gains competitive advantage. Strategic
tie-ups propagated as formalized relationships, particularly among
companies in international business, seek to achieve organizational
objectives better through collaboration than through competition.
I call it a company’s collaborative advantage. During MOU signing ceremony at
Volkhov
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Got the chance to visit few installations of PhosAgro during MOU signing ceremony. PhosAgro –Cherepovets
is located in the industrial capital of Russia’s north, The Cherepopvets giant processes more than 3 million
tons of phosphate rock annually making it Russia’s largest exporter of phosphate based fertilizers. Apart
from it, phosphoric Acid, Sulphuric acid, Anhydrous liquid ammonia, aluminum fluoride, mono-ammonium
phosphate (MAP); white and colored di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) and complex fertilizer plant is
operating from that region. To fuel that massive capacity, it has the power plant of 134 MW making it 90%
self-sufficient in energy requirement.
Metachem, Volkhov (now part of PhosAgro Group) was established in December 2003 after the split-up of
the Volkhov Aluminium Refinery into chemical and metals production. The business unites chemical units
involved in different aspects of the production process.
Metachem is the only sodium tripolyphosphate producer in Russia, manufacturing products with different
specifications in line with customer requirements.
It uses the only production system in Russia that makes it possible to obtain granulated potassium sulphate
from a machine – drum dryer granulator.
The enterprise is a major exporter of sodium tripolyphosphate and potassium sulphate to countries in West-
ern Europe, Asia, South America and Africa. Metachem leverages a key advantage in terms of geographical
location (extensive network of highways and located near a major railway junction), and also proximity to
the producers of the main raw materials required in production. Proximity to the seaport of St. Petersburg
(distance to port: 130 km) makes it possible to ship in sea containers in any direction.
Besides it has Phosphoric Acid production facilities at Volkhov.
During plant visit at Volkhov
Anil Sharma
SIL HIGHLIGHTSSIL HIGHLIGHTSSIL HIGHLIGHTS
Motivational Program conducted at CQP-Gujrat site on 28th Oct 2017 to encourage workers
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Showcase
Shayari
,
!!
,
!!
By Qasim ‘s Friend
21 By:- Mohd. Qasim
Govardhan by Aalok Bansal
SIKKIM- Small but Beautiful State
When Dussehra holidays were on our door step, I decided to look at the beautiful eastern part of our country
and planned to spend the long weekend in Sikkim. On Saturday morning 30th September I reached Bagdogra
airport from Delhi. The aerial view before landing at Bagdogra Airport and the beauty of the clearly
demarcated paddy fields is mesmerizing. Bagdogra in West Bengal is the nearest airport to Gangtok. Sikkim
doesn't have a functional airport or railway station. The nearest railway station is therefore New Jalpaiguri, in
West Bengal. I had booked a taxi to Gangtok, after 5
hours of drive alongside the Teesta River, I reached the
sweet little town and probably the cleanest - Gangtok.
Sikkim offers breathtaking views at every turn. From
the glacier lake Tsongmo to the capital city of Gangtok,
Sikkim offers a range of experiences for travellers. The
beautiful monasteries with their carved interiors,
sprawling tea estates and rolling hills, reminded me of
a painting by Van Gogh.
After a night of blissful sleep in Hotel Udaan Yashshree,
I headed out the next morning to take a walk down the
lanes of Gangtok Places to Visit in Gangtok Rangpo -
Rangpo is where you finally enter Sikkim after West
Bengal. Rangpo is a major rest stop and most tourists stop here for brief refreshment before continuing the
journey forward. Moving ahead you can see some really
picturesque terrace farms blanketing the hills. Just about the
perfect place to get down and capture some amazing shots.
Do Drul Chorten - The most popular stupa in Sikkim, Do Drul
Chorten was built in 1945 by a Tibetan Buddhist named
Trulshik Rinpoche and is famous for the gold plated steeple
atop the Chorten. Surrounded by 108 prayer wheels on which
Buddhist mantras have been engraved, monks and tourists
swirl the wheels, which is equivalent to completing 108 beads
of recital. Tashi Viewpoint – Located 4 kilometres from Gangtok, the Tashi Viewpoint is one of the
best places to go to with a pair of binoculars. From here, you get the perfect view of the snow-covered peaks
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of Kanchenjunga, Phodong and Labrang monasteries.
Tsuk La Khang Monastery - The Tsuklakhang Royal Chapel and Monastery is a palatial monastery in Gangtok.
The imperial chapel, located in the palace grounds, is the centre for prayers and also has an impressive
collection of Buddhist scriptures and literature. The
monastery also hosts several Buddhist festivals
through the year such as Phang Lhabsol and the
Tibetan New Year. If you happen to visit during any of
the festivals you must go to see the famous mask
dances that are performed by the monks here.
Solophok Chardham - The pilgrim centre is
constructed on top of the Solophok Hill in South
Sikkim which is about 5 kilometers from Namchi
town.
The entire complex is divided into four main ele-
ments, namely (1) Shiva Statue with 12 Jyotirlingas, (2) Four Dhams, (3) Sai Baba Temple and (4) Kirateshwar
statue besides Nandi bull, Sai dwar, Sai Temple, Kirat dwar, Kirateshwar Statue, Shiv Dwar etc. This pilgrim-
age centre has been dedicated and designed to place Sikkim in the very conscience, heart and minds of the
citizens of India and beyond.
Samdruptse - Samdruptse literally means 'wish fulfilling hill' in the Bhutia language. Situated near Namchi in
South Sikkim, it is at a distance of 75 kms from Gangtok. A unique, awe inspiring and gigangtic 135 feet high
statue of Guru Padamasambhava is installed atop Sampruptse. It is the highest statue of Guru
Padamasambhava in the world. His Holiness the Dalai Lama laid the foundation stone of the statue in
October 1997. It took nearly three years to complete the statue.
Buddha Park (Sakyamuni Project), Rabong - 2006 marked the 2550th birth anniversary of Lord Gautama
Buddha. The state government in a policy decision had decided to observe the birth anniversary throughout
the year in Sikkim. As a part of the celebrations, an initiative was taken by the people of Rabong to construct
and install a statue of Lord Buddha at Rabong ,to commemorate the 2550th year, and also to develop the
Buddhist Circuit in Sikkim.
The trip had all the ingredients for a must visit place, the beautiful landscape, the religious
monuments and an awesome weather.
Out and out it was a mesmerizing experience and like they say that all good things must come
to an end so does a holiday. Supriya Chandaiya
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