Spiny Babbler has conducted several community projects through the Darjeeling program and is focusing on building a community relationship by approaching local contemporary writers and other artists. Readings of poetry and other works have taken place in order to promote these artists and support those who have developing interests in the field.

The first meeting of Spiny Babbler held in Darjeeling was at the Nepali Saithya Sambelan, a society of Darjeeling writers on 20 January 2001. Among the topics discussed at the meeting were the aims and objectives of Spiny Babbler and the possible programs to be held by the organization in Darjeeling and outlying areas in the future. The membership calls to the organization's society were also discussed (everyone present agreed to join in), and the handing over of Spiny Babbler publications to the society. Many suggestions were made by the participants regarding program possibility and needs.

Poetry reading at St. Roberts' School Hall at the end of March followed up the meeting. Thirty-two participants from Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong participated in the reading. Retired Lt. Col. M.M. Subba represented Nepali Saithya Sambelan and Gorkha Dukha Niwaran Sangh and launched the program. He said that the program created a platform for established poets and encouraged upcoming poets to share their creations. Among prominent writers and poets at the program were: Mrs. Kumari Khati, Mr. Binod Prasad Sharma, Mr. I.C. Mason, Mr. Yugen Gholay, Mrs. Sampurna Rai, Mrs. Sanumati Rai, Mr. Sudarshan Ambatay, Mr. Lakshuman Shrimal, Mr. I.K. Singh, and Mr. Brian Moktan. Students from different schools and colleges also read at the program. Certificates of merit were handed out to the fourteen local youth volunteers who supported the program.

After the initial two programs, Spiny Babbler has begun the process of collecting and documenting the creations of poets, artists, and musicians in Darjeeling and outlying areas. Over the next couple of years, Spiny Babbler hopes to publish a body of work involving established and upcoming creators of the region. Further meetings with writers and creators like Indra Bahadur Rai (during a visit to Kathmandu), Kewal Chandra Lama (editor and publisher of literature magazine "Munal"), and K.P. Malla have taken place.

Darjeeling is located in northeastern India in the state of West Bengal. Known the world over for its fine tea, the town was laid by Lord Napier of the British Royal Engineers at an altitude of 2,134 meters. It is believed to be named after Dorje Ling or the thunder bolt. Due to its pleasant and cool weather, it remains a popular holiday spot for Indians and was a favorite hill station of the British during their raj of India.

During the nineteenth century, for a brief period, the area came under Nepalese rule and was returned to the British in exchange for fertile land in what is now southern Nepal. The people of Darjeeling and outlying areas share a lot in common, including languages, cultures, costumes, and relations with Nepal. Its population of 100,000 speaks English, Nepali, Hindi, Tibetan and Bengali. The Nepali language has received many positive influences from the area and several highly respected writers, including Parijat, were born and educated here. Among writers to visit Darjeeling was Mark Twain.

Individual memberships and contributions from national and international organizations, and Spiny Babbler Communication Services to international organizations working in Nepal help fund the program. You can become a member and support the Spiny Babbler community program.