April  -  06

State celebrates Mopin with gaiety

Khandu expresses concern at

lopsided sex ratio

ITANAGAR, Apr 5: Mopin, the festival for happiness, prosperity and bumper harvest has been celebrated throughout the state today with traditional fervour and gaiety. Attending the festival as chief guest here today, Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu extended his Mopin greetings to the people of Galo community and praised their enthusiasm for the festival.

Acknowledging the contributions of Galo community towards state’s overall development, the CM said: “I believe you will continue to put your best effort to ensure a definite and concrete development of the state.” Khandu also lauded the Community’s initiative to save Mithun population of which is rapidly diminishing.

Khandu also advocated for women representation in every spheres of development.

Citing the example of East Kameng which witnessed four women legislators representing the area, Khandu appealed the Galo elders, elites and the people to encourage womenfolk to represent the community in the highest forum by providing all possible logistic and moral support.

Khandu further assured the gathering to expedite the process and formalities to change the nomenclature ‘Galong’ to ‘Galo’ which is at Prime Minister’s office.

While expressing concern over declining girl child ratio in Arunachal Pradesh, the CM called for due importance and recognition to women community.

According to population census 2011, there has been a sharp decline in sex ratio in general and child sex ratio in particular in the state accepting Tawang, Khandu informed. He encouraged people of the state to maintain a good proportion of male-female ratio.

He also briefed the developmental initiatives of the state government informing that the state has been awarded the Best State in Small State’s Category by CNN-IBN group. He credited the Award to its people for their constant support and wishes.

He also disclosed that the State in the recent past has achieved a GDP growth of 22% which is a great achievement in spheres of economic development.

Minister WRD Atum Welly, the guest of honour,  stressed on preservation of our rich culture and traditions.

“In the wake of modernization, our youths are gradually inclining towards western culture which is not a good sign”, Welly observed while calling the elders to guide the youths in the right direction.

Welly further called for immediate shifting of Jhum cultivation to permanent cultivation in order to safeguard our rich vegetation. He observed that due to the tradition of Jhum cultivation, wanton forest destruction is done which adversely affect the flora and fauna. He urged for a collective effort to save forest and the wildlife.

Among others host of dignitaries from every walk of life were present on the occasion. Colouful cultural programme were other highlights of the day.

Mopin, the symbolic identity of Galos, is a sacred ritual festival to worship the mother Goddess of earth for happiness, prosperity and welfare of the society. The festival has myth, religious chanting, rhythmic with vigorous dance and also carries positive messages for harmonious existences on earth.

Mopin was also celebrated with traditional gaiety at Naharlagun at Mopin ground today.

One of the main highlights of the cultural festivities was the colourful mega dance competition presented by the womenfolk and school children dressed in traditional Mopin attire. Other attractions were the Popir competition followed by Mopin Yugi Nam (Mithun sacrifice).

The cultural competitions which started on April one will end on April 7 with the Riga.

Dr. Keni Ete was the President cum Pinge Neri.

Earlier, chief guest of the festival MLA Techi Kaso wished one all for peace and prosperity on the auspicious occasion and urged everyone to join him in his mission to abolish the fine system that is prevailing in the capital.

Dr. Golek Yomcha, guest of honor, also spoke on the occasion, reports DIPRO.

At Ziro, the festival was celebrated jointly by the members of Galo and Adi Community with great fanfare and festivity.

Local MLA and Parliamentary Secretary Padi Richo, attended the festival as chief guest while Lower Subansiri Zilla Parishad Chairperson Likha Tongum  and Deputy Commissioner Nila Mohanan joined the celebrations as guest of honour and special guest respectively alongwith other officers and local leaders.

Speaking on the occasion, Richo  narrated the nostalgic story of how he was involved in the first Mopin celebration at Ziro in  1984, when there was very few Galo people in the area. Since then, he said, the Galos have been celebrating the festival every year and he was involved in most of these celebrations. This shows how much the Galos  love their culture and traditions.  

He called upon every tribe of Arunachal Pradesh to celebrate their festival at Ziro and  share their beautiful cultural traditions to the people of the district. The Parliamentary Secretary also highlighted the importance of policy of the government in levying one percent cess from the government projects and schemes for the welfare of the working class people and earmarking of 5% quota for sportspersons in the recruitment policy of government jobs.

Lower Subansiri DC, Nila Mohanan opined that the happiness of celebrations, its importance and relevance lies in joint celebration.

She further suggested that everyone should join together in such festivity to make it more enjoyable and meaningful. While giving her good wishes to the people, she assured of her all co operations in future too.

Likha Tongum, while appreciating the celebration committee, said culture is ones identity and without it one loses oneself in the history of mankind. One needs to preserve it and safeguard it for posterity lest it is lost for ever.

Citing loss of  over 3000  dialects by its speaker tribes, he said we being a very small tribes need more stress in preserving of culture particularly the dialects and costumes as the love and attachment  of younger generations towards their culture is very dismal . Again we are very prone to language attack of western countries and the mainland.

The cultures and traditions of the descendents of  Abo Tani  are  similar except for small variations due to geographical differences, hence such celebrations should be informal mixed celebrations of all communities as the essence of all festivals are same for peace and  prosperity and bumper crops etc., he added.

Solung Mopin Celebration Committee president Er. Gumdo Doji and General Secretary Dagi Angu gave the welcome address and vote of thanks on the occasion, reports DIPRO.

At Pasighat, the festival was celebrated with traditional gaiety and religious fervour at Solung ground today by the Galo community.

People from all walks of life participated enthusiastically showing the sense of unity and brotherhood.

Attending the festival as chief guest, Advisor to CM Nanom Jamoh said that the day is memorable as people propitiate the Goddess ‘Mopin’ to bless them for bumper harvest. Mopin Festival and its related folk songs, dances, costumes, customs and rituals should not be forgotten since festivals reflects one’s own identity.

Supporting the Home Minister Tako Dabi’s suggestion, Jamoh advised to celebrate the festival at village level individually instead of HQ centric which would be more economical and enjoyable. She also prayed for peace, prosperity and good health and appreciated the Galo community for organizing the age-old indigenous festival in a befitting manner.

Participating as the guest of honour ZPM Okom Yosung said that festivals serve as common platform where the principle of equality is brought to the society. The festival signifies the symbol of unity, brotherhood and friendship, he said.

Home Minister Tako Dabi, who was on his way to Tene, also joined the celebration for a brief period to boost-up the morale of the community. Member of Parliament Ninong Ering, despite of his busy schedule, was also present on the occsion and blessed the gathering.

Education Minister, Bosiram Siram also conveyed his Mopin wishes.

Earlier,  president of Mopin Celebration Committee Takir Kakki briefed the mythology of Mopin. He informed that the Galo people being the descendants of Abo Tani, celebrate the festival every year in the month of April seeking Mopin’s blessings for bumper harvest and greet each other by smearing rice powder on each other’s face.

At Yingkiong,  Upper Siang deputy commissioner Liyoon Borang attended the Mopin celebration as chief guest while Upper Siang unit of ABK president Germin Jiji was the guest of honour.

Speaking on the occasion, Borang said that Mopin is  is the main festival of the Galo community with mythological roots. It also spreads joy and happiness, he said adding that  traditional spirit has to be maintained while celebrating such festivals. He hoped that the grand celebration of the festival will bring peace and prosperity in Upper Siang.

Gemin Jiji while wishing all on the auspicious occasion hoped the celebration will bring joy, peace and harmony in the society.

Narration of the Mopin mythology, cultural programmes, popir dances etc were the other highlights of the day-long celebration.

Prizes for the Mopin Badminton tournament were given away to the winners by the Chief Guest, reports DIPRO.

 

This coin has three sides

Tongam Rina

Regional parties foraying into Arunachal territory is not new. More recently, we have five MLAs representing Trinamool Congress, which is basically a Bengal based party. Politicians in the state have not really cared much about parties as long as it gave them a platform to represent themselves and perhaps the people as well. Them representing the people is contentious though!

We are a state, where party affiliation or loyalty is least of concerns as long as we get to hobnob with those in “power”. Our loyalty lies in switching loyalties!

However, the formation of Arunachal branch of Naga People’s Front, the main ruling regional political party in Nagaland was rather ill-timed, given the social and political mindset of most people of Arunachal.

With trouble brewing in Tirap due to factional fights among the NSCN, one would have expected some amount of sensitivity from the NPF, no matter how thin veiled.

NPF had earlier attempted to field candidates during the last assembly elections in Arunachal. Later, the plan was unceremoniously dropped.

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio is reported to have said that the main intention to expand the party beyond his state was for the interest of the Naga political issue and to create harmony with other regional political parties.

One is not sure whether harmony has been strengthened with the formations of Arunachal and Manipur branch of NPF but it sure has become an issue to talk about.

With peculiar social and political settings in the state, questions are bound to be asked at the formation. For long, people of Arunachal have been struggling to deal with the complicated Naga identity issue. The problems have been compounded by the aggressive presence of the factions of confused NSCN in Tirap and Changlang, who have been using guns to do their talking.

As usual, most of us, who are in a position to have a say have decided to maintain silence at the development apart from All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union. For whatever they are worth, the students have at least asked some valid questions. With time, we will have to deal with the decision of NPF, not because of anything but for the fact that we are still battling our own issues. Do we really have space to accommodate all? More importantly, are we ready to give space to others issues?

The region long troubled by militarization, separatist movements, corruption and identity issues, the last thing we need is any party trying to make inroads in the name of a “political issue”.

We don’t have to wait for time to tell us how politicised the move is!

 

 

City Police arrest five, busts

motorcycle lifters gang

ITANAGAR, Apr 5: Naharlagun Police lead by Inspector Officer in Charge Techi Susen, Police Station, Naharlagun succeeded in busting a vehicle lifter gang and arrested five people from various locations of the city. Two of the lifters were caught red handed committing the crime. The arrested lifters are Tai Gagung, of Pakba, and Student of Gyan Ganga Itanagar, Tai Takio, also of Pakba, and Student of Polo Colony Naharlagun, Sangha Lochung, Mengio, and student of Polo Colony Naharlagun, Tai Tagem @ Gagung, Tamuk. All four are from Kurung Kumey. The fifth one is Habibul Ali, Laluk.

The police have recovered 4 stolen motorcycles from their possession. The main accused in the gang Bengia Taluk, a habitual offender against whom many cases are charge sheeted is absconding and the city police are confident of getting him soon.

The modus operandi is that an advance party conducts survey of the motorcycle and passes on the information to the party who would actually commit the crime. The miscreants after lifting the motorcycle are handed over to the gang leader who actually disposes them off. City SP Chuku Apa said that “it is a matter of concern that many school and even college students are found to be involved mainly in the motorcycle lifting cases in the city”.

Special traffic check by the district administration would continue in the city as there are lots of people driving vehicle without driving licence, proper gear, valid registration numbers and some are even driving under fake registration numbers, he added while appealing the citizens of the capital to cooperate with the authorities.

 

AAPSU calls for early release of stipends

ITANAGAR,  Apr 5:  All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU) has called on education department to immediately release the stipend of those students who are studying outside the state.

AAPSU in a press statement said these students are being forced to study outside Arunachal due to non availability of courses in the state.

Keeping this in mind, state government should continue supporting them by releasing stipend as soon as possible. “This year all of a sudden government has stopped giving stipend to Arunachalee students studying outside the state. Even many poor students are studying in other parts of country and this step of state government is creating problem for them,” stated AAPSU.  Further AAPSU added, “Central government provides enough fund for welfare of tribal students of Arunachal. But our state government is ill treating their own students. Most of these students were getting stipend till last year but from this year govt has stopped it.”   AAPSU urged government to immediately release stipend or else union will be forced to take its own course of action.

“We have been patiently waiting in the hope that education department will release stipend. But till now they have not and in the next few days if stipend money meant for students are not released, AAPSU will take its own course of action,” AAPSU added.  

Meanwhile, the students of Govt middle School, Homi in Kurung Kumey district have not been receiving stipends for the last two years, said All Lingdum-Lingko Youth Welfare Association. Students are facing lot of problems due to non-getting of Govt stipend, Association said and demanded the Kurung Kumey DDSE to enquire into possible misuse of fund meant for stipend.

 

Social harmony is the essence

of prosperity: Ering

PASIGHAT, Apr 5: Member of Parliament Ninong Ering embarked on a whirlwind tour of various far-flung places of East Siang district recently and visited Riga, Komsing, Rasing, Dosing and Yeksi villages.

During tour Ering appealed to all to maintain peace and harmony, unity and brotherhood among them stating that social harmony was the essence of prosperity.

During his tour to Riga, the ancestral home of Minyongs, he sanctioned Rs 30 lakhs for reconstruction of the famous “Siram Dere” (Community Hall).

He also announced Rs 10 lakhs for construction of a new Dere at Rasing. The MP also visited historic Komsing village and paid tributes to the unsung heroes and martyrs,  who fought valiently  against the trained and equipped Britishers with their stone chutes and bamboo-made arrows century ago (1911).

It is said that during the second British expedition (1911), APO Sodiya Noel Williamson and his entire entourage were assassinated by Matmur Jamoh and others sparking off the Anglo-Abor war by the end of same year.

The villagers while demanding for centennial victory celebration, the MP assured to discuss the matter with the state’s Chief Minister, local MLA and present Dy. Speaker Tapang Taloh and Minister Tourism Jarbom Gamlin. DIPRO

 

Exempt workers from edn

qualification, says union

ITANAGAR, Apr 5: All Arunachal Pradesh Government Department Labours Union (AAPGDLU) has urged the director of school education not to impose any educational qualification for departmental contingency labours who are going to appear interview for Group C posts under reserved quota.

During the initial stage such contingency/casual workers were engaged in departments without considering any qualification, the union said. The union further said that they are rendering their service for last 20 years without promotional avenue and benefit. Imposition of educational criteria (class X passed) will deprive them of a life time opportunity to appear interview, it said.

 

Reservation in Gramsevika posts sought

ITANAGAR, Apr 5: All Arunachal Pradesh Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Union (AAPAWHU) have called for 75 per cent reservation of Gramsevika posts for Anganwadi workers and promotion of Anganwadi helpers in the vacant posts of Anganwadi workers on seniority basis.

In a memorandum addressed to state Chief Minister, the union also pleaded for enhancement of salary of Anganwadi workers and helpers and   demanded other benefits like house rent,  medical reimbursement and TA and DA as provided to the other state Govt employees.

Regarding present system of SNP and distribution of medicines, the union said the Anganwadi Centres are sometimes facing embarrassing situation due to non-delivery of medicine on time and  supply of low quality medicines. It requested the authorities to provide fund for CDPOs  to monitor the SNP and supply of medicines  to the Anganwadi centres.

It also called on the Govt to look into proper construction of Anganwadi centres in the state. The union said payment of contractors should be released only after proper verification of construction works.

 

AAPYO decries private practice

of Govt doctors

ITANAGAR, Apr 5: All Arunachal Pradesh Youth Organization (AAPYO) has appealed to the state Govt to issue strict directives against private practice of Govt doctors.

The organization in a release today claimed that some doctors are found practicing in private clinic even in duty hours in Hospitals.

 Most of the poor patients from far flung area who visit the hospitals for treatment are facing major problems as the doctors often ask them to visit their private clinic instead of properly diagnosing the disease in hospital, the organization said.   

The organization asked the Govt doctors who are practicing in private clinic to stop such practice and also appealed the Govt to look into the matter seriously.

 

Governor praises OWA for showing the way

ITANAGAR, Apr 5: We need NGOs for up-lift of downtrodden and destitute and Oju Welfare Association (OWA) has shown the path how it can be done, said Arunachal Pradesh Governor Gen JJ Singh, while visiting the its Centre at Naharlagun yesterday. It is a marvelous job you are doing by bringing up orphans and destitute and giving them life so that they can contribute to the society. Other NGOs should see the examples set by Oju Mission, the  Governor added.

He was accompanied by State First Lady Anupama Singh, British High Commissioner Sir Richard Stagg and his wife Arabella.

OWA Chairperson Binny Yanga, winner of Dr. Durga Bai Deshmukh award, a dynamic social worker and entrepreneur apprised them of the many works being undertaken by the institution.

It may be mentioned here that working towards empowerment of women and weaker section of the society, the Muskan Welfare Society in collaboration of Oju Welfare Association, launched two self employment generating courses on beauty care and tailoring.

 

Eye camp conducted at Sangram PHC

ITANAGAR, Apr 5: A six days long eye camp was organized at Sangram PHC from March 28 to April 2 last.

Altogether 238 eye patients from various places of Kurung Kumey district registered their names during the first two days of the eye camp for screening, cataract detection. Out of the total patients, 10 patients were admitted for cataract operation conducted by a team of doctors. However, due to some technical problems at Sangram PHC,  nine cataract operations  were done at Ziro District Hospital. Dr. Higio Tama, DMO and Dr. L. Bagra, DRCHO, Kurung Kumey and Dr. Hage Tam, DMO, Lower Subansiri district extended cooperation for smooth completion of the camp. Dr. Grayu, Eye Specialist, Ziro District Hospital successfully completed the post operation check-up of the patients.

Earlier, the camp was inaugurated by Dr. K. K. Deb, State Programme officer, National Program for Control of Blindness (NPCB), in presence of Sangram Zila Parishad Member, Tai Yapang and other Public leaders on March 28.

 

The Essence of Eco Crafts Bazar

Somorendro Huidrom

The 5th  Eco Crafts Bazaar opened its doors to the public from 30th March at Nyokum Lapang, Itanagar and will continue till 8th April 2011 with a stunning range of handcrafted items to entice patrons into parting with some of their hard earned money.

The bazaar, which is in its consecutive 5th year, provides a platform for primary and economically underprivileged crafters/weavers to sell and display their work, exposed to new /larger audience and each items is subjected to a strictly  handmade and with minimal use of machines and carefully selected which ensures that the craft is of high quality and that there are new items to choose from, as well as old favourites.

This is an initiative and social entrepreneurial venture by  Creations Society for Handicrafts and Goodwill, Imphal, Manipur with collaboration and support from the Government of India, Ministry of Textiles, O/o the Development Commissioner ( Handicrafts ) New Delhi having its Marketing and Service Extension Centre, in Itanagar. This is a project under their marketing scheme. With the help of the Ministry, the organisation has been supporting large clusters of individual artisans as well as Self Help Groups for the last 7 years in various other programs especially Capacity development / skill Upgradation Training programs, New Design Development, Technological interventions, Cluster development programs, innovative and entrepreneurship development programs, Research and Development and various welfare interventions like facilitating credit and fund flow, artisanal insurance schemes etc. This is one such Marketing Scheme/platform which has helped the artisans not only in the sale of the products but also to create awareness and popularization of various crafts to the consumers and craftsmen alike and also to determine future market demands. It further helps them  in incorporating better designs and also in improving productivity.

The 10 days event brings together, 150 artisans, most of them are women, including State awardees and National awardees. And 70% of the total participants are from Manipur. Few Artisans from Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Assam are also taking part in the Ecocraft Bazaar reflecting their fine tradition of artistic Craftsmanship.

10-15 Artisans have demonstrated their art of craftsmanship in regular intervals with an aim to sensitize and create awareness of the crafts at the same time adding value to the visitors.

The ecofriendly handicrafted items like Kauna craft ( products made from water reed grass), Cane and Bamboo masks, basketries, flower vases, furnitures, Tribal Jwelleries, Dry flowers, Handloom Dress materials, Mekhala chadars, bed sheets, table linen, Dolls and Toys ( Lai phadibi ), Pottery items, Wooden handicrafts and hosts of other miscellaneous crafts are being exhibited.

Some of the items displayed are very unique having its socio cultural significance. Shaphee  Lanphee, for instance is a craft, which assumed importance as symbol of status and privileged honour accorded by the royalty. The Shawl is regarded as a symbolic of the high weaving talents and artistic sense of the people.

Kauna craft is a craft made from Kauna, a type of reed available in wetlands, is one of the most popular and sought after craft of Manipur. This craft form is equally very popular in South East Asian Countries particularly Thailand and Philipines. The craft alone is very huge having a workforce of  more than 50,000 artisans in various parts of Manipur. Traditionally, it was used for making only mats of different sizes. However, recently, many innovative and sophisticated items are being made out of it. There is an emergence of new set of market and graph has definitely shown an increase in demand of the cushions, fancy bags and other utility items which fetches 100% sales in almost all the fairs participated.

Meitei Kitchen Knives are unique in itself and very user friendly. Likewise, some of the products are designer stuffs having export potentials, designed intricately by the designers and given shape to by the participating artisans themselves.

This 5th Ecocrafts Bazar is determined to be a success. The footfall at the exhibition in the initial 2-3 days have been very unappreciative and artisans are helpless but to hope and pray for the positive developments in the days ahead. What was going to happen in the days to come was also simply doubtful and unpredictable. However, we have tried to manage the things professionally, taking one day at a time and making all out efforts to woo and attract visitors by way of placing advts, press releases in both local esteemed papers and electronic medium , multi coloured  posters, distribution/insertion of leaflets in the newspapers through hawkers, mass SMS’s and hosts of other on spot publicities and attractions.

The monsoon, water scarcity, isolation of the venue from main city centre and other administrative complexities like Inner line permit etc., further added on the woes of the organisors. But at the brighter side, there is some visible change in the last 2 days that the ecocraft has been receiving more and more focused and determined consumers who freely interacted with the artisans and encouraged them by their goodwill and hospitable gestures. The people of  Itanagar has been quite supportive, simple, adventurous and art loving. This is evident from the way they have been supporting us in this maiden venture.

It is quite encouraging to see the artistic talents of Arunachalis who express their sense of aesthetics' in their work of  weaving, painting, pottery, smithy work, basket making etc.in various hues and shades. However, I feel there are lots of things can also be taken up for the development of these Artisans. Non Govenmental Organisations, Apex Bodies or Corporations etc., can make use of  various schemes/programs of the O/o the Development Commissioner ( Handicrafts),Ministry of Textiles, Government of India to further develop and nurture their Skills and for the long term socio economic development  of the artisans.

The organisation is motivated and is contemplating to organize the similar kind of event  in Arunachal Pradesh again, in the same year may be in a different venue like Tawang, during the Budha Mahotsav with the collaboration of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.  Having been experienced and been exposed to many scenarios here,  I feel we can create a fabulous and eye catching fair next time with lot of fun, food and frolic backed by cultural performances. It is further planned to conduct Craft related seminars with aim to create socio-economic and intellectual impacts to the people of artisans of NE Region as a whole and Arunachal Pradesh in specific, the land of rising sun and veritable treasure house of nature.

The Eco Craft Bazaar is open until Friday the 8th of April 2011 from 10am to 7pm. (The contributor is the Chief Functionary of Creations Society for handicrafts and Goodwill, Imphal)

 

Public need Primary Healthcare

Foundation in India

Ajay K Tripathy

During the year 1970 Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) was 128.7 in India; whereas it was 158.7 in Bangladesh. Again in the year 1990 our IMR was 80 and Bangladesh had 104.7; however, in the year 2007 India’s IMR was 54.3 and Bangladesh had just 47. Likewise, the Life Expectancy at Birth (LEB) in the year 1970 was 49.3 in India and 44.2 in Bangladesh which became 64.7 for India and 66 for Bangladesh in the year 2007. There are several examples i.e. immunisation, under-five mortality, etc. where country like Bangladesh supersedes India in healthcare delivery, so, where is the need to compare with Sri Lanka and China? Better health-status of developing countries are mainly attributed to their primary healthcare system; but not to large hospitals in cities. Latest data available on Out-of-Pocket spending, as percentage of total expenditure on health, depicts that it’s 71.1% in India which is 62.6% in Bangladesh.  

India is facing the shortage as well as absence of doctors in rural areas, and with the present approach of the recently established Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) many doctors would like to taste the glamorous public health. Community health in India must be practiced with Gandhian principles and missionary values; so, essentially it’s not for the white-collar professionals. We are almost close to a situation when our future doctors would better prefer designer-tie across their necks than the life-saving stethoscope. It’s noteworthy that doctors those use public-health as their entry points to get into the USA universities hardly return back to serve in backward areas of India.

Thus, we deserve a primary healthcare approach than a mystified public health model as we need our professionals to work in villages and tribal hamlets. Activists doubt that glamorous public health may become an escape route for some doctors from their basic clinical responsibilities that could be the second largest threat to country’s health system. However, private practice by several doctors after receiving non-practicing allowance has emerged as the greatest threat to our national healthcare delivery system. These doctors literally make the government hospitals dysfunctional by providing part-time services, illegally, in nursing homes and large hospitals.     

Out of the thirty-three members Governing Board (GB) of PHFI at least ten of them are directly or indirectly associated with big business establishments. Huge gender gap is also visible in PHFI as there are only four women in its GB; whereas women and children share more burden of diseases in India. Six of the GB members are, or were, associated with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. Health is a state-subject in our constitution; however, PHFI’s GB does not have a single representative from the State Government although it has eleven representatives from international agencies. Public Health is no longer the cup of tea of health ministry alone, in contemporary India, as it has a broad reach. Public health is closely associated with ministries like Women & Child Development, Social Justice & Empowerment, Environment & Forests, Tribal Affairs, Rural Development, Development of North Eastern Region, Youth Affairs & Sports, etc. However, these stakeholders or ministries are not represented in PHFI’s GB.

Thanks to the Government that it launched National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) which is successful in many ways. However, NRHM is not just adequate to address all healthcare needs in backward areas. It would be difficult for India to achieve the Million Development Goals unless we demonstrate more seriousness in our approach towards delivering healthcare at the grassroots level. Hence, the Indian Institutes of Public Health (IIPHs) must be relocated in backward district headquarters than the big cities. PHFI should also be transformed to Primary Healthcare Foundation of India, as it deserves rebirth. (The writer is a Health Economics & Policy scholar at the Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore. These are views of author and not necessarily of the institution. He can be reached at ajaytripathyindia@gmail.com )

 

The Mopin

Dr. Tejum Padu

Many of us wonderstruck to see many a ritual religious practices among the different groups of Arunachal Pradesh, ornamented by melodious folk chantings,folksongs and rhythmic ritual dances which at present visibly emerged as festival with a religious fervor.Since many of us believe that the dwellers of Arunachal have migrated from Tibet and the legacy of our sources of these religio-festival must be the in past of that area.

Mopin belongs to one of the oldest and multiple culture of pre-dated bonpo practices and culture which existed in the Central Asia and Tibet and is one of the  religious ritual and cultural  practices  of the Galo communities of Arunachal Pradesh.

The mythology and its importance.

The Mopin,is a sacred ritual festival of the Galo tribes of Arunachal Pradesh.The festival has myth,religious chanting,rhythmic with vigourous dances and also carries positive messages for harmonious existences on earth.It is the “rituals of fertility of crops,plants,animals and human being”

There are six seasons of Galo:-DILO (JANUARY-FEBRUARY),DIGU(MARCH-APRIL),DIRII(MAY-JUNE)DIRAA(JULY-AUGUST)DIGIN(SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER),TIRUK(NOVEMBER-DECEMBER).MOPIN is performed and celebrated in DIGU.

For prosperity through agriculture one needs to know the art of cultivation. After cultivation it is also important to respect, preserve and rehabilitation of vegetation for revitalizing the earth again.

The festival is celebrated to Worship Mother Mopin and also to bring into consciousness that the agricultural season has began. Through hardwork the plentifulness, prosperity, good health and preservation of all living being with the blessing of MOPIN will dawn on earth again.

MOPIN is a name of a goddess. The goddess of agriculture, the preserver of all of vegetation. The celestial teacher of Abo Tani. The Mopin Mythology and sacred text says that Mopin Ane ( mother ) was the first to teach the art of cultivation to ABO TANI-the first man ever born on this earth. She  not only taught the art of cultivation but she and her daughters PINKU PINTE and DIYI TAMI showed the type of implements and their uses to ABO TANI.

Had there not been MOPIN to teach ABO TANI, the art of living; ABO TANI would have grooved in darkness and would have lived a life ignorant of the prosperity and plentifulness that modern are bestowed with.

THE MOPIN STORY:-ABO-TANI the first man of the Tani group of people of earth  lived all alone. One day he walked to the river valley and met TODE-RENE ( a small river bird ) who informed  ABO-TANI  that TAKAR-TAJI ( Terrestrial being living separately elsewhere) are going to conduct a big wedding ceremony and sacrifice ten mithuns at a time. He has also invited –

“ TANI TAKI RU EM

TASA TALA RUEM

INBO KENBO RUEM”

AboTani soliloqued-

“ As the natural first being of earth these mithuns belonged to him.And how come Takar and Taji kill my animals!”. Thus, he went to the area of TAKAR-TAJI on the pretence of attending the Togu wedding celebrations. But his aim was to get back his mithuns by any means. He devised a trick and made an image of his own mother, positioned it on a raft in the middle of the river and covered it with some coverings. He placed a murte kome ( a bamboo stick ) nearby the image. After planning thus, he reached the place of TAKAR-TAJI, watched carefully the performance of the ceremony and the preparation of Rindu-Kandu(iteneries of making image) and found out that TAKAR-TAJI’s Rindu-Kundu preparation were made in a wrong way. ABO-TANI suggested to TAKAR-TAJI to invite his mother who could make the figures of MURDOM, PONYO, ISI – PUKSI and MONYI-TAGE in the proper way. According to Tani’s suggestion, TAKAR-TAJI deputed KEKOPAI ( Squirrel) to invite Tani’s mother.Tani cautioned Kekopai that his mother is deaf and dumb and it is only with Murte Kome that she can be awaken. So push with Murte Kome to get the response.

KEKOPAI went there and did as was directed by ABO-TANI. The image of his mother fell down in deep water and was drowned. KEKOPAI returned back terror-stricken. He came back and narrated the  unfortunate incident to ABO-TANI. ABO-TANI knew that it was his trick but he showed much anger against KEKOPAI and appeared to be grief-stricken. He threatened to destroy the whole world in anger. TAKAR-TAJI were terribly shaken. They assured to offer back to ABO-TANI nine HOBO (mithuns), but ABO-TANI behaved as if he was not consoled and pacified by return of the mithuns. He continued to show his anger.

TAKAR-TAJI had invited a large numbers of guests and he had only one mithun to be sacrificed. The marriage ceremony was organised as the greatest feast but one mithun was not sufficient, so the guest were offered various other things. At first they presented DUMPU and KIPU ( Deer and dog ) AGYA-POSUM ( a packet of soya beans ) and LOTE POSUM a packet of bones. But both DUMPU and KIPU quarreled with each other. DUMPU destroyed AGYA-POSUM and kicked up lote POSUM and ranaway. KIPUfollowedDUMPU. DUMPU requested for shelter to KUNE LAMNE :-

“TUSI YELA BEKA

TUSI BALABEKA”

KUNE LAMNE replied-

“NGOTUSI BALE  MAYE.

KUNE BULU EM

LAMNE BULU EM

BUTO LAKA ADE”

And ABOTANI was in hot pursuit after KIPU DUMPU.  And reached DIGO PINE the heavenly land of MOPIN MOJI. MOPIN was surprised to find them. She picked up DUMPU the deer, imprisoned ABO-TANI and KIPU the dog. To protect DUMPU, she fettered ABO-TANI and KIPU.Within those few days of agony TANI hinted KIPU to look for a rodent. KIPU did so. With the help of KIPU the rodent was pushed into the armpit of TANI and pressed to death and left it like that. He called Mopin Ane and told her that he might die any time any day. The place was also stinking.

“TANI BEDU SI,TANI OPO SI——— This body and soul of mine.

BEDU NAMSIE ,YIBI YEKE ———— Has started stinking.

OPO NAMBA E REYA YEKU————And decompose.

NGO TANI PUMSI GIBOLO————If I die.

NGO TANI ROMO BE HIBOLO——Perish as such.

NGOM NYIGO BE GOSA DEDO YE-Can you create me?

NGOM HOGO BE GOSA DEDO YE”-Or compensate?

All beings at DIGO YAMO were frightened and agreed:

“TANI NAMSI RIBI DOKU

TANI NAMSI REYA DOKU.”

Out of sympathy and to save TANI, MOPIN  ordered DIYI TAMI to release TANI and KIPU.TANI got up, stressed the body.

“ TANI PERE DUKA TOKU

TANI PERE DAKKA TOKU.”

During his short stay at DIGO YAMO, TANI observed that the land of MOPIN was full of prosperity with food and wealth.

On being released, ABO-TANI approached MOPIN and begged her for something to be given to him as he suffered very much in MOPIN’s place.

“NGOM NYOGO GODE KUYEM

NGOM HOGO GODE KUYOM

DATU DAJUM YILI GOKU KA.”

MOPIN gave TANI some seeds of paddy and maize which he put in the ears of KIPU. ABO-TANI returned to earth and sowed the seeds in a barren place, called ABIN BINDO and POKO LOTO.But, wild birds ate up the precious seeds.

ABO-TANI again went to the place of MOPIN and DIGO YAMI and told what had happened to the seeds. MOPIN presented DIGO GE HIGMEN, a knife and instructed him to select a patch of land and clean the jungle and loosen the soil.This time again the cultivation pricess was disturbed by an animal Kada Ramyo. Abo Tani repaired back to Mopin Ane for advise. ABO-TANI returned to earth and did as per the instruction to construct a KOMDU PORA ( fishing trap ) to catch KADA RAMYO ( an animal ) whose skin could be used and exchanged for GITUM YOKSAP ( implement for cultivation ) from NYIRO PORO KOMAR ( dealer of implements ). Thus equipped with implement ABO-TANI started clearing the jungle.

But YAPOM and YAJI the deities of the jungle appeared before him when he started to clean the jungle. YAPOM and YAJI asked him to stop him from cleaning the jungle. Disappointed ABO-TANI reappeared to the place of MOPIN and told about the interference of YAPOM and YAJI.

MOPIN requested YAPOM and YAJI to part away a plot of land to ABO-TANI. But they did not agree, so MOPIN played a trick on them. She said that some trees should be fell in the forest. When the trees dry up, fire will be lit. YAPOM, YAJI and TANI will stand in the middle of the burning forest. The one who can resist and survive from the raging fire will be declared the Master of the forest. It was also decided that DIYI TAMI would lit the fire. Meanwhile, MOPIN had secretly instructed ABO-TANI to dig a pit in advance and slipped into it when the fire catches.

On an appointed day, DIYI TAMI lit the fire. YAPOM and YAJI could not resist the fire and fled into the forest. When the fire was over ABO-TANI emerged out of the pit and stood firm in the encircling smoke. MOPIN declared ABO-TANI the master of the earth. ABO TANI was free from hindrance. He sowed Mili Amli. YAPOM and YAJI accepted the defeat. YAPOM YAJI and all other deities requested ABO-TANI to honour MOPIN with celebration of ritual. With the guidance and help of DIYI TAMI, PINKU PINTE, Tani prepared the image of MOPIN gave more seeds to ABO-TANI with which ABO-TANI started the regular cultivation on earth. ABO-TANI went again to MOPIN but this time his main purpose was to asks for the hand of MOPIN’s beautiful daughter, DIYI TAMI / JEYI TAMI. DIYI TAMI consented to marry ABO-TANI and MOPIN also agreed to the proposal in the best interest of his daughter. In this way ABO-TANI married DIYI TAMI and their marriage was attended by MOPIN and deities.

MOPIN, the presiding deity of wealth presented to them agricultural implements, seeds and other precious stones. DIYI TAMI was also bestowed with a singular power to prepare a pot-full of rice from one grain. DOKE-DOAK ( a small basket for rice grain ) YARI-YAPOR or DOSI-GINSI were also given to DIYI TAMI.Thus ABO-TANI and DIYI TAMI began their conjugal life in full peace and happiness. They did not cultivate and did not produce lot of food stuffs but made use of power as DIYI TAMI continued to get the rice from one grain to feed the entire family. They were happy in this way. Later on ABO-TANI married ROSI TAMI daughter of DIRO ( famine ). DIYI TAMI was not willing to share her as a co-wife, since she was the daughter of DIRO, the Famines.

One day DIYI TAMI went back to ( DIGO PINE ). During her absence, ROSI TAMI had to prepare rice, but she did not know the method of DIYI-TAMI of using only one grain at a time. She put two grains which produced huge quantity of rice and the same could not be fully consumed by both of them. She at first did not know what to do with this extra quantity of rice and being afraid of DIYI-TAMI, she called DIRE-KIBO ( the hungry dog ) to finish it. DIRE-KIBO came and ate up the whole of the left over rice. DIYI-TAMI did not return till then and again ROSI TAMI was to prepare food, she again put two grains and that time the grains did not produce huge quantity but remained two grains only, because the Famine had consumed the magical power also along with the left over food.

From that day, the first of the famine broke out and ABO-TANI had to face a terrible situation. Inspite of his efforts, he could not overcome it. The news of ABO-TANI’s miserable condition reached DIGO-PINE and TANI’s wife DIYI TAMI also came to know of it. But she had decided not to return. However, when ABO-TANI approached DIGO-PINE for help in sending DIYI-TAMI to his house, DIYI-TAMI expressed her willingness to return but on one condition that ROSI TAMI should leave him for ever and she should be thrown into the river and DIRE-KIBO should be destroyed. After that, ABO-TANI should pray to MOPIN and other deities who would again provide him with agricultural implements and seeds. Only then she ( DIYI-TAMI ) will return along with MOPIN.

On knowing the wishes of DIYI-TAMI, ABO-TANI planned to kill ROSI TAMI. Finally, ROSI TAMI was drowned in the river and DIRE KIBO was cut into pieces and thrown into the water-fall. In this task he ( ABO-TANI ) was assisted by LITUM and LIRO ( gods of war ). Lastly, ABO-TANI made images of MOPIN and other Gods and Goddesses. He was guided by DIYI TAMI in this task of making images like  LOSI LORE, LODO-LORE, RILUM-TAJUM and GARE-GAPO ( dress ).

 

ABO-TANI worshipped these images and invoked MOPIN and other deities who came to TANI’s place and brought DIYI TAMI along with them. They restored all agricultural implements and seeds but did not bestow the magical power of preparing large quantity of food from one single grain. But through the favours of MOPIN, ABO TANI got some powers to cultivates a large areas. He was given agriculture implements and directed to celebrate MOPIN every years. ABO TANI worked hard and prospered thereafter.

According to the directions of MOPIN, ABO-TANI celebrated MOPIN every years during the sowing season hoping for good harvest. Consequently, we celebrate MOPIN as ABO-TANI, our ancestor did.

During Mopin, Mopin Ano, Mopin Popir, Yili Bongo Lanam, Mopin Hobo Kaben and other oral literature are chanted. They are prayers for good health of mankind, better germination and innovation of relation between earth and cosmos.

At the altar of MOPIN, the following images are included.

BAGOPORPOTE, LITUMKATUM, PINKUPINTE, PIRKUNGU, PIRTE, POMTE, PIRSAPIRSI, YAPOM, NYIJI, NYIKU, BUTE, YAPOM NYIRA, KOBU, HIKOM, POMBEK, DOGAERAP, HILINGELI, RINE, UROMPOMBE - POMRU, KOMBO, KOMAR.

The following plants are used for preparation of the images of all the deities at the altar of the MOPIN:-

PIBOM, PISO, TAKA, TARI, TAJIR, TABO, TATO - TANO, TAPI, EKAM, HIKA, ENSI, ENI. HIRE, POPI, TABUTABE, YADUM, KORA, TARE, NYOME, TASI ETC.

Apart from the forest plants some household items like ambin – pone  are also used. The following activities are important for MOPIN :

- ITI INAM, TAKE PINAM, DOSI GINSI GENAM, HIKANAM, AMIN KENAM, JESE OKKE JEP GENAM.

- MOPIN BUME MOMA BE MOPIN IMUM MADONA. UI MOMA YOM AI AGAM PAMA YE.

- MOPIN LO HOBO NYEBE PAPE LAGE EMNAM KAMA DONA, EK MOPIN EMSIN ILADU.

- MOPIN E MINYI MOSO EPAK HIGE NANE FESTIVAL E.

SOME ASPECTS OF MOPIN

MOPIN story carries many a meaningful message for the good health of the human relation on earth. Behind the celebration each festival there is innate value, indispensable for the moral growth of the Society. A society has culture, faith and activities as is destined by the creator DONYI POLO, God, Bhagwan or whatever name you may call.

As festival Mopin is organized in the beginning of the agricultural cycle. But basically Mopin is a worship of goddess MOPIN ANE. As is seen in the chanting the Mopin and here daughters endowed various agricultural implements and seeds; and taught the art of cultivation to ABO-TANI – ( Though other duties also contributed in their own way ).

The importance of Mopin mother could be placed along  with Lakshmi and Annapurna Devi.

The celebration could be equated with the celebration of the Minoans.The Minoans on the island of Crete in the Aegan Sea,in around 2500 B.C;The Europe first empire,made offering of food and drink to the Gods.Several different deities were worshipped,including the god of animal and hunt.Bulls were also believed to be sacred.The most important deity was a goddess of the earth and fertility.”

DUE IMPORATNACE TO WOMEN : Genealogically the Galos mainly name their heir apparent more oriented towards paternal side taking the last two or three letters of the father, more so the generations of ABO TANI.

If we analyze we can see that the daughters of MOPIN and MOJE  are named after ANE MOPIN only. Like MOPIN-PINKU, PINTE except DIYI TAMI. Taking cue from this, sometimes, Galo also keep the name of the children after the name of PATE – father’s sister.

PINKU PINTE have also been given due importance in the POPIR chanting during MOPIN. They are warmly welcome on earth along with MOPIN ANE.

HIKANAM: The events of Hikanam on the main day of celebration is the most spectacular of the festival.The ladies with Dosi Ginsi on the back,again Kamtu kamlam with opo, tipak and iti inside it move ahead to the ground near the altar and place them in row.The iteneries are offered to the deities.Opo(The tradional beverage) are poured in the KOMBO and Komar. Major portions of the Opo is stored in bigger container for later distribution to the revelers in the festival ground.Some portions of the food items are offered to the priest and his assistant.The host committee at put in a piece of sacred Hobo adin in each of the Ginsi.At the end of the celebration the ladies happily pick up the granary basket and leave the ground.

Fellow feelings : Mopin lore has reference to the fellow feelings for others. The Mopin prayer is to make everybody self sufficient.

NELI JA NAGO

GIMA JA NAGO

NENGO JA NAGO

GIMA JA NAGO

ANE NO MOPIN

ANYI NO PINKU

ANYI NO PINTE

YAMYI GE IRJI GOBE

LIDO GE IRJI GOBE

GUMDO GE IRJI GOBE

PEKE GE IRJI GOBE

ANYI GE IRJI GOBE

MURKO GE IRJI GOBE

IRJI BE JILAKE

ABOUT VEGETATION & ENVIRONMENT : Mopin is also all about the maintenance of environment and preservation of vegetation.

KOPU GE TAGAR GEBE

KOTE GE TAGAR GEBE

EJO GO PAUM GEBE

AMO GO JUMUR GEBE

HARSI GO JUMUR GEBE

DINYI GE IRJI EGUM

IRJI GO TOYIR DOBE

THE HOBO SACRIFICE IS DONE WITH FAREWELL

CHANTING AND REMORESE. IT IS NOT WANT ON SACRIFICE.

NOM DONYI GE REDUM BE

GARI DAK OGO

GARJI DAK OGO

PINKU BE HOMEN BE

PINTE BE HOMEN BE

GARI BE NAM GOYE NI

GAJI BE NAM GOYE NI

ATO GE KALI NO

MUSI GO GIJI YO

AME GO GIJI YO

Since you are a natural selection for sacred celebration, may you not feel bad and sad.

MOPIN SHOWS THE PROTECTION OF ANIMAL: When Tani and Kipu ( the pet dog of Abo Tani ) reached the World  of Mopin in hot pursuit of Dumpu. The deer, MOPIN ANE picked up Dumpu and saved the deer from being attacked by Kipu. For someday Tani and Kipu were fettered as punishment.

After some days out of sympathy Ane Mopin released Abo Tani And Kipu with many gifts of seeds of paddy and maize etc.

ITI IRNAM (Smearing rice powder and paste): Smearing ITI on each other’s face is a symbol of purity, social harmony, exchange of love and affection and showering of plentifulness.In some other ritual performance like Hurin, Ampir,Litup –Hingi etc Galos profusely use ITI from the past immemorial.

KOMBO AND KOMAR : KOMBO represents the blessings and fertility KOMAR represents the earth.

LESSON FROM THE STORY OF DIYI TAMI AND ROSI TAMI: The story of Diyi Tami and Rosi Tami tells us to be economical in house hold management to grow to the level of self sufficiency. Over greediness may lead to economic downfall resulting to frustration.

POPIR TEGNAM A VERY GOOD PHYSICAL EXERCISE: Inspite of the healing chantings, popir tegnam (dance ) involves a very good physical exercise.

The whole process of celebration is for good health as well.

• State celebrates Mopin with gaiety
• This coin has three sides
• City Police arrest five, busts motorcycle lifters gang
• AAPSU calls for early release of stipends
• Social harmony is the essence of prosperity: Ering
• Exempt workers from edn qualification, says union
• Reservation in Gramsevika posts sought
• AAPYO decries private practice of Govt doctors
• Governor praises OWA for showing the way
• Eye camp conducted at Sangram PHC
• The Essence of Eco Crafts Bazar
• Public need Primary Healthcare Foundation in India
• The Mopin

Illegal appointments nothing less than 2G scam

Dear Editor,

This is apropos the recent news item regarding unearthing of 2000 illegal appointments in various Govt departments. I think such kind of corruption is nothing less than 2G scam that is rocking the Central Govt. I do really appreciate the persons who have taken so much pain to unearth the illegal appointments. But I believe this is just tip of an iceberg and there are many more to be revealed.

As many people have expressed exasperation over the issue, it is high time the Dorjee Khandu’s so called people friendly and people first government clear its stand on this matter. Repeated claim of corruption free Government has no bearing when such illegal appointments are reportedly done in a large scale.

Secondly, it is really surprising to see that our students bodies with sole motive to protect interest of student community are keeping mum on the matter. So far our conscience is concerned such illegal appointments will have direct consequences with the students who are toiling hard for good job and decent life in near future.

I request the student’s organizations including AAPSU to take up the cudgel to revoke all the illegal appointments instead of blowing out of proportion some trivial matters which are at all not related to student community and their future.

It is high time for all the like-minded people who think for the future of Arunachal to raise their voices against such misdemeanor. If Govt fails to take any positive action, then we should be prepared to knock the door of the court.

Yours,

Y. Tehi

Gomum Welfare Society

Doimukh

 

 

Reconsider decision on humanitarian ground

Dear Editor,

I would like to thank and appreciate the state Govt, particularly officers of education department for keeping 25 per cent grade D posts reserved for  in-service   contingency staff in education department. But it is disheartening to know that the education criteria for in-service contingency staff that are aspiring to appear in walk-in interview for the Grade D posts (peon and chowkidar) remains unchanged. Instead of making the education qualification as class X passed,  State Govt should grant one time relaxation to education criteria and bring it down to Class V to VIII passed. Govt should understand the plight of the contingency staff who were appointed on compassionate ground and who  are rendering their service for last 8 to 15 years with meager amount of salary.

I cordially request the authorities to rethink and reconsider the education criteria of the contingency staff on humanitarian ground.

Yours,

Made Marbom

Itanagar

 

 

Where are the organizations?

Dear Editor,

It has already been a week since the news about the 'illegal appointments' came out. But to our utter dismay nothing has been since heard about the issue again.

Initially I thought that Save Arunachal Forum will really stand up but it seems even they are gearing up for other issues.

Though we are very thankful to the SAF, for letting us know more about such illogical indulgences by the goverment , but we also hope that they will come out  with a right and concrete solution of the earlier issue, which will immensely brighten up the job prospect of so many unemployed, educated students.

It is still out of my understanding when I realize that most of the leading unions and organisations are being totally numb about the issue. The issue looks much more appropriate for their participation.

Is it me or my misinterpretation of the motto's and ideologies they talk about ! it is time for letting everyone know, what change unions and organisations can actually bring for the whole society .

Yours,

Biku Gao (on email)

 

 

They are not rendering service in the interest of public

Dear Editor,

The post office staffs of the R K Mission branch appear untrained, not devoted to duty and their callousness has brought a bad name. It appears staffs wait their palms to be greased, or else they never deliver the letters, speed posts, parcels  etc.

Here I cite an incident. My SBI Credit Card was dispatched on March 15, 2011 from New Delhi by Speed Post No. EH271825956IN. Itanagar Post Office received it on March 18 and further sent to R K Mission Post Office vide Bag No EBE7500770825 for delivery to addressee  at Dokum Colony, G Extn.

Even after 12 days, R K Mission Post Office has failed to deliver it to me which is hardly a km away from the post office. On enquiry on April 1 last, the Post Master squarely blamed the post man and asked me to contact post man and not him.

Complaint has already been lodged at Itanagar Head Post Office to take stern action  and such  staffs should be suspended and shunted out.

The Post Master of R K Mission branch post office too can not escape by putting blame to poor post man alone. He being the Captain of the team of his branch should owe moral responsibility. Complaint has also been made to Consumer Redressal Forum for taking necessary action against the wrong doers. The service rendered by the R K Mission Post Office is absolutely not in the interest of public.

Yours

T Ronya

Dokum Colony

 

 

We have suffered enough

Dear Editor,

I would like to sincerely thank Duge Soki for his letter "no intrusion please".

I live in Tirap, and many people would have considered our silence on the matter of N.P.F., as welcoming the N.P.F. But the real reason for our silence is simple and plain, and that is gun barrels are always pointed towards us, the fact that I write this feedback is also a risk, risk for me, and risk for my family.

I would like to conclude my feedback by saying that, we are the proud citizens of Arunachal Pradesh, and as N.P.F. says that they are for "discriminated Nagas".

I would humbly request them to limit their work in Nagaland and Manipur, as in Arunachal Pradesh nobody is discriminated and even if it is there, we have our own leaders to sort out our problems. I also appeal to our leaders to take a stand in this matter, you all are our voice. Be strong and courageous. We have suffered enough.

Yours,

Lowang, Khonsa,

(on email)

 

 

Make way for unemployed

Dear Editor,

I would like to convey my resentment over recent published advertisement of various technical posts in deputation basis, particularly Assistant and Junior Engineer posts in the department of education.

It is indeed a discouraging fact to note that in spite of unemployment lurking among the engineering graduates and rather than solving the unemployment scenario, they came out with such move.

I on behalf of all my unemployed friends would like to request the concerned department to reconsider the ongoing appointment and come out with fresh notification.

I also urge Unemployed Arunachalee Engineer Association (UAEA) and apex student body AAPSU to come forward strongly and raise the issue.

Yours,

Rabbi, Itanagar (on email)

 

 

A great victory

Dear Editor,

Winning the world cup is a matter of great pride for the country. Indeed on ground, it was only 11 players that played. But it was actually the whole country who had played...Each and every Indian soul had batted, bowled and fielded for the team. There was celebrity like Amir Khan dancing with the flag, a political elite like Sonia Gandhi shaking a leg with common citizens.

The whole country bled blue. Along with the Cricket, the love for the team is also visible. The promise that Indian team made to Sachin Tendulkar itself teach many lessons to all. A lesson of friendship, a lesson of secularism, a lesson of respect for seniors.

But, at the same time we also should have words of praise for the team defeated, for the Captain Sangakarra...a real gentleman. True they say that it is always good to have a noble enemy. India had a good team to play against in the finals.

Yours,

Priyanka Chakrabarty

Guwahati, (on email)

 

 

Aliens and cross connections

Dear Editor,

There was a time when people communicated through letters and landline telephones. Now that has been erased by coming of mobile telecommunication. Without mobile telecommunication and internet services you are still living the ancient life.

However, even at this age of mobile communication, we have only got a landline connection at Deed village, under Pistana circle in Lower Subansiri.

Residing outside the state and trying to contact our parents is like as if I am engaged in research project to communicate with the aliens. The condition is so pathetic that after trying hundreds of times we get connected but too a cross connection!

This would be better solved if the area gets mobile network facilities. Today there are many private tele companies in Arunachal Pradesh which can be asked to provide the facility.

Bring out some worthy steps to solve the problems. So that at least we get connected with our parents at anytime whereas now we have to call within specific time during night and day.

Yours

Debia Hania

Davangere, (on email)

 

 

********************************

 

All email and surface mails must be accompanied with contact numbers and full postal address. Do keep writing but please make sure that letters are short and to the point.        

----Editor

News Impact

Association appeals

ITANAGAR, Apr 5: All Arunachal Homeopathic Student Association has appealed that services of the non-APST homeo doctors from outside who were appointed in 2007- 2009 under NRHM be terminated.  It requested the state govt to conduct fresh interview.

 

Appointment

ITANAGAR,  Apr 5:  Kago Tagyang has been appointed as general secretary of North East Development Welfare Society, Lower Subansiri district unit.

 

Condolence

ITANAGAR, Apr 5: All Pei Youth Association (APYA) has deeply mourned the sudden death of Vicky Maga, a B. Sc final year student of DN Govt. College, on April 3.

He was an energetic and talent youth of Pei community of Raga, APYA said, and   prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.

APYA also condoled the death of Godak Aka on April One last. Godak was serving as contingency labour under Power Department at Raga division.

All Raga Area Students Union has also condole the sudden demise of late Vicky Maga.

Union while empathizing with the family members of late Vicky prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul.

The Rajiv Gandhi University Employees Association (RGUEA) has condoled untimely demise of Kara Tado, Security Guard

He is survived by his wife, three daughters and two sons. The Employees Association RGU prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul.

 

Seminar

ITANAGAR,  Apr 5:  Eco-Friendly Society of Magi, Likabali is going to organize seminar cum awareness campaign on global ecological balance on 19th April at Likabali, West Siang district. As part of the awareness campaign Panchayat leaders, Gaon Buras, government staffs and village councils will be given lesson about need to conserve wild animals.

 

KVIB training

ITANAGAR,  Apr 5:  Khadi & Village Industries Board (KVIB) sent 25 unemployed youth to Tamulpur Anachlik Gramdan Sangh, a KVIC recognized training institute at Kumarikata, Rangia, Assam for one week basic training course on beekeeping.

Today in a small ceremony at KBIV office Chandranagar, Bado Singhi vice chairman KVIB distributed certificates to all the trainees. While interacting with trainees Bado Singhi urged them to avail benefits under Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme and take up beekeeping activities which has tremendous potential in Arunachal Pradesh.

KVIB will soon organize one more such training in Itanagar. Board will also take 25 more famers and beekeepers of state to an exposure tour to Assam in the next few months.  

 

RGUSU reacts to NPF move

ITANAGAR:  Rajiv Gandhi University Students Union (RGUSU) has reacted angrily to the proposed move of Naga People’s Front (NPF) to form their state unit in Arunachal Pradesh.  In a release RGUSU while endorsing stand taken by apex student body AAPSU against NPF, said such move could destabilize the peaceful atmosphere of Arunachal.

Union urged student communities, NGOs and civil societies to raise voice against such move by NPF.

“NPF is Nagaland based political parties and they should limit themselves to Naga dominated areas. Their attempt to enter Arunachal is not acceptable to citizen of Arunachal and being respected political party they should understand the greater sentiment of Arunachalee citizen,” RGUSU added.

 

Bungalow left half constructed: DNYC

ITANAGAR:  East Kameng District Nationalist Youth Congress expressed concern over non-completion of construction of D C Bungalow in Seppa.  The bungalow was left half constructed after spending lakhs of rupees, the district NYC said and demanded that state Govt disclose the cause of abandoning the construction work  half way.

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