Funeral Service of D.T. Tamlong I.A.S. (Retd.) to be Held on 27th October

KalimNews, Kalimpong, 26 October 2025 : The Darjeeling, Kalimpong region mourns the loss of D.T. Tamlong, the former Principal Secretary of the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council (DGHC), who passed away today at the age of 80. His death occurred at his residence on Atisha Road, Kalimpong, at around 4:15 PM.

Funeral Arrangements:

In accordance with his final wishes, the late Tamlong’s funeral will be held on 27 October 2025, at his residence Ami Lee on Atisha Road, near Pine View Nursery. This will be followed by a funeral service at Macfarlane Memorial Church (MMC). After the service, his body will be taken to Kashyong Busty, Pedong, for his burial at his ancestral home’s cemetery.

Born on 27 February 1945 in Kashyong Busty, Tamlong had an illustrious career as a civil servant spanning over 36 years. He retired as an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer in 2005, after having served as the Principal Secretary of the DGHC from March 2002 until his retirement in November 2005. He continued to serve in an extended capacity until February 2008, playing a vital role in the administration and governance of the Darjeeling Hills.

Prior to this, he served as Secretary of DGHC from January 2000 to February 2002. Tamlong was widely admired for his leadership, foresight, and commitment to public service, particularly in the development of the hill region. His tenure in civil service has left a significant and lasting impact on the governance and administration of Darjeeling and its surrounding areas.

Tamlong was born as the fourth son of Yangku Tshering and Tshering Doma (Demu) Lepcha. Tragically, his father passed away when he was only three years old, and his eldest brother, R. Dorji, took on the responsibility of raising him and serving as the head of the family. Both his forefathers and his eldest brother had held the position of Mandal, village head.

His early education was completed at St. George’s Primary and High School in Pedong, about 6 km from his home. He was known for his academic excellence and often topped his class. After completing his schooling, he pursued a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree from Darjeeling Government College in 1968. It was during this time that he became close friends with N.B. Bhandari, the former Chief Minister of Sikkim.

After his graduation, Tamlong entered government service as a Revenue Officer and later passed the Public Service Commission (PSC) examination in 1972. He became the first hill candidate to successfully clear the PSC examination and was subsequently appointed as the Block Development Officer (BDO) in Kumargram. His illustrious career continued with postings as Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) and Additional District Magistrate (ADM), as well as in other posts across various districts, including Darjeeling.

Tamlong was a strong advocate for the hill communities and encouraged many students from the region to pursue careers in the civil service. His commitment to education and public service was unwavering, and he was proud to be the first Hill candidate to be nominated as an IAS officer.

In addition to his administrative work, he also served as the Area Organiser for the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), deputed by the Central Government. His leadership extended beyond governance, as he was deeply invested in his community's welfare.

In 2006, Tamlong authored the book "Darjeeling & North Bengal: From An Administrator's Perspective", followed by "Mayel Lyang and the Lepchas" in 2008 and "Darjeeling Diaries" in 2012. These works offer invaluable insights into the region's culture, history, and administration.

Tamlong is survived by his wife, Amina, and their son, Amos; his daughter-in-law, Anungla; his grandchildren, Abish Jaron and Nesha; his sister; and other family members. His passing is deeply mourned by his family and the many who worked with him throughout his remarkable career.

He was a man of great faith, having converted to Christianity in 1992, a decision that reflected his personal spiritual journey.

The passing of D.T. Tamlong marks the end of an era in public service and civil administration in the Darjeeling Hills. His unwavering dedication to his community, his leadership in the civil service, and his contributions to the region's development will be remembered by all who knew him.

The funeral service will be a solemn occasion for friends, family, and colleagues to pay their final respects to a man whose life was defined by service, integrity, and devotion to the welfare of the people of Darjeeling.

Click For More on Related News: Funeral Service Schedule Announcement for Late Dorjee Tshering Lepcha, IAS (Retd.), 80 year

Former Principal Secretary of DGHC, D.T. Tamlong, Passes Away at 80