April 05

News Impact

• Guv, CM, BJP greet people on Mopin and Mahavir Jayanti
• Centre sanctions additional forces, fund for cultural Centre
• Six houses gutted
• Yet another kidnapping rocks Changlang
• Tawang people raise voice against dams
• Adi Baptist Fellowship at Parbuk
• Finally, SSA teachers to get their salaries!
• Kri urges GBs, PRI leaders to remain alert to local situation
• SWIMs cries for teachers
• The Mopin story

Guv, CM, BJP greet people on Mopin and Mahavir Jayanti

ITANAGAR, Apr 4: Arunachal Pradesh Governor  J.J. Singh and Chief Minister Nabam Tuki have conveyed their warm greetings to the people of Arunachal Pradesh on the auspicious occasions of Mopin and Mahavir Jayanti.

In his message, the Governor said that Mopin, which is celebrated with the mood of rejoicing and gaiety, marks the beginning of the new agricultural season. The rituals and the festivity associated with the festival inspire all to preserve age-old customs and heritage. While offering his prayers to almighty Donyi Polo and Ane Mopin for their choicest blessings, the Governor hoped that the festival will continue to propagate the rich religious traditions of the Galo Community.

In a separated message, the Governor has conveyed good wishes to the people of the State on the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti.

The Governor said that the birth anniversary of Mahavir, the last Tirthankara, which is observed in different parts of the country, denotes the underlying unity of our rich and diverse culture. The Governor wished that the day inspire all to spread Mahavir’s message of righteous conduct and selfless service. In his festival message, Tuki said, “We have been blessed with beautiful nature and the auspicious Mopin is one such means to express our gratitude to almighty god for showering it for us.”

While appealing for preservation of rich cultural and religious heritage of the state through such festivals, the Chief Minister prayed Mopin Goddess to bless each and every individual in the state with peace, prosperity, sound health and bumper harvest.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also wished the people of the state as well as the country on occasion of Mahavir Jayanti.

The rank and file of State Bharatiya Janata Party wished the people of Arunachal Pradesh, especially the Galo community a very happy, prosperous and joyous Mopin celebrations.

Festivals form an essential aspect of socio-cultural life of the people and in fact festivals are the mirrors of the people’s rich living culture,” BJP said in a message.

Mopin being one of the major and colourful festivals of the state provides everyone, irrespective of caste, creed and religious beliefs, an opportunity to participate in it  thereby fostering brotherhood and unity amongst the people of the state, the message said.

 

 

Centre sanctions additional forces, fund for cultural Centre

ITANAGAR, Apr 4: The Union Home Ministry has approved the demand for deployment of 2000 additional central and para military forces to maintain law and order in Arunachal. This was announced by Chief Minister Nabam Tuki this evening after his arrival from New Delhi.  

This approval came when the CM had called on Home Minister P Chidambaram and submitted a memorandum for additional security forces at New Delhi.

The Chief Minister also sought intervention of the Home Minister for relief and rehabilitation for those affected by last year’s heavy rainfall during monsoon. He informed Chidambaram that heavy rainfall last year resulted in landslides, avalanche, loss of lives and massive damage to property.  

The Home Minister assured to send a damage assessment team despite the fact that there was no appeal for relief from the state government at that point of time when the disaster took place. Subsequently after the assessment, relief funds will be provided from the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF).

The Chief Minister further said that state police is working hard to maintain law and order across the state. Deployment of additional paramilitary forces will increase their efficiency and also put to rest concerns over maintenance of law and order in the state, he added. He was accompanied by MPs Mukut Mithi, Takam Sanjoy and Tako Dabii, Advisor to CM.

Tuki had also called on Union Minister of Cultural Affairs and Housing and Poverty Elevation Kumari Selja on Monday.  Subsequently the Union Ministry of Cultural Affairs approved Rs 36 crore for creation of a regional Cultural Centre (village) at Itanagar.  It also approved sanctions for upgradation and modernization of the district museums at Aalo and Itanagar. Similar upgradation and modernization of museums in rest of the districts will be taken up subsequently in a phased manner, Selja assured the Chief Minister.

She also informed that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will start exploration activities at Parashuram Kund from this month. The ASI has already completed exploration of the Itafort in the state capital, Sivalinga at Ziro and Malinithan in Likabali. Selja further assured the Chief Minister that she would support the state government to boost projects related to Housing and  Poverty Alleviation.

Tuki requested the Union Minister to allocate a special fund towards upgrading and strengthening of the Buddhist monasteries in the state besides making an appeal for funds for construction of an Arunachal Pradesh Guest House at Bodh Gaya. Selja reciprocated favourably to the requests and assured necessary action for the same.

Earlier on the same day, the Chief Minister attended the World Autism Awareness Day Programme organized by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. He met Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Mukul Wasnik and discussed the scope of new welfare schemes for the state.  Wasnik agreed in principle to the CM’s proposal for supporting setting up of four De-Addiction Centres and three Old Age Homes in the state. He also assured the CM that Disability Rehabilitation Centres will also be sanctioned for different parts of the state subsequently.

The Chief Minister also met DoNER Minister Pawan Singh Ghatowar on the day and requested early disposal of funds for schemes earmarked for the state. Ghatowar expressed the commitment of the Ministry to improve the Power Scenario of the state. The Union Minister informed Tuki that

A Rs 1800 Crores power grid internal transmission line for Arunachal Pradesh will be considered for funding by DoNER, Ghatowar said.  He also apprised the Chief Minister that he is personally taking up the issue of increasing the frequency of flights to Lilabari with the Ministry of Civil Aviation till the time a Greenfield airport is commissioned in Arunachal Pradesh.

 

 

Six houses gutted

PASIGHAT, Apr 4: Six houses in locally known as Cooperative staffs colony, just beside the Judicial Jail, Pasighat turned into ashes when a massive fire broke out at 2 am this morning.

One fire tender was immediately pressed into service which took few hours to douse the blaze. Reportedly, all belongings of the six families were completely destroyed in the fire.

Education Minister and local MLA Bosiram Siram along with deputy commissioner Talem Tapok rushed to the spot and immediately contributed Rs 5000 each to the affected families.

Siram further advised to take all pre-cautionary measures to prevent occurrence of fire in future. He instructed the administration to ensure that there must be a passage for fire tender (s) in every locality/village.

Expressing shock over the incident, the minister asked the district administration to assess the losses and forward it accordingly to the government to extend all possible helps to the victims. He asked fire authority to keep the fire tenders and other fire-fighting equipments always ready.

DC Tapok after taking stock of the incident provided few amounts to  the victims as immediate relief. DIPRO

 

 

Yet another kidnapping rocks Changlang

Taba Ajum

ITANAGAR, Apr 4: In a shocking incident, a businessman named Vikram Aggarwal was kidnapped at gun point by a group of miscreants from his shop at Innao town, Changlang district at around 6.30 PM yesterday evening. According to the report, two people carrying pistols picked up the 30-year-old Vikram and later reportedly took him to the Manabhum forest area.

It is reported that altogether, there were four kidnappers at the time of incident. They had formed two separate groups consisting of two members in each group for the heinous crime. While one group went to the shop of Vikram Aggarwal, another went to the shop of businessman Rajiv Aggarwal.  The kidnappers met stiff resistance from Rajiv Aggarwal as he refused to go along with them. To scare him, the two kidnappers fired in the air but still Rajiv did not relent. Fearing that public might catch them, the kidnappers fled the scene and joined their other accomplishes, who by then had managed to kidnap Vikram Aggarwal.

 Meanwhile, Superintendent of Police, Changlang district Tumme Amo confirmed the incident and told this daily that police was working hard to crack the case as soon as possible.  

“State police in coordination with CRPF and Assam Rifles have launched massive search operation in the area. One more company of CRPF is arriving from Namsai to be part of the operation,” informed Amo.

He, however, ruled out the possibility of involvement of NSCN in the kidnapping.

“At this juncture it is hard to tell which group is involved. But our inputs point finger of the involvement of rogue elements. There are possibilities of involvement of notorious criminals like Bitto Chakma and his gang who is quite active in the area. We also do not rule out hand of group like United People Democratic Front,” stated Amo.

The incident has sent shockwave among business communities of Changlang district. Businessmen of insurgency affected districts like Changlang, Longding and Tirap operate their business activities under very difficult circumstances. Cases of kidnapping, extortion and intimidation are rampant in the three districts and many cases go unreported in the media.

In the year 2010 Changlang had witnessed a high profile kidnapping case. Sanjay Kumar, a supervisor of Arunachal Pradesh Mineral Development and Trading Corporation Limited (APMDPCL) was kidnapped from coal mine, situated in Kharsang town. Police has failed to solve the case till date.  Authorities are still clueless about his whereabouts and well being.

The family members of Sanjay Kumar while speaking to this daily said that they have given up all hopes. “We tried everything for his release. We kept running from one office to another but there is no news about him. Earlier govt had promised CBI investigation and we were hopeful that something will come out”, he said.

However, Arunachal government has backtracked from the promise and is trying to give a colour of natural death,” said the anguished relative.

At a time when state government is working overtime to promote Arunachal as a major investment destination, the kidnapping of Vikram Aggarwal would definitely send a negative impact on state’s future investment prospects.

 

 

Tawang people raise voice against dams

ITANAGAR, Apr 4:  The voice against mega power projects echoed in picturesque Tawang. Thousands of people under the banner of Save Mon Committee (SMC) took out a mega public rally against construction of power projects at Tawang township today.  

The state government had reportedly signed 133 MOU/MOAs with various power developers and 15 dams are proposed to be constructed over Nyamjungchu, Mago Chu, Nykcharongchu rivers in Tawang.

Addressing the rally SMC general secretary Lobsang Gyatso said construction of huge projects in Tawang will not only cause eco-logical imbalance but also pose a serious threat to environment and its scenic beauty. Tawang, surrounded by snow covered Himalayan mountains house many endangered species like red Panda and Macau and many other rare Himalayan species and construction of mega power project will bring such rare animals to the verge of extinction, said Gyatso.

Stressing the need of promoting tourism, he said the scenic beauty of Tawang, which is considered most beautiful tourist destination of the state with forest cover  of more than 1200 sqkm must be protected. Mega projects in lower parts of the district will badly affect the livelihood of the people who are mostly dependent on farming, it said. Moreover, it said, arrival of large number of labour with the construction of dam will change the demography and  become a serious threat to the culture and tradition of peace loving people of Tawang.

Meanwhile, Society for Development for Culture and Education, which is spearheading the anti mega power project movement in Tawang district alleged that the Tawang district administration is taking all step to prevent its movement. The Society said Tawang district administration is  trying to create misunderstanding between the Society members and  His Holiness Dalai Lama by writing false and fabricated letter alleging the members of misguiding  the local people. It further said CO Rinchen Leta had tried to curtail the democratic rights of the SMC members by preventing them to motivate the people against dam on April 1.

When contacted, Leta denied the allegation saying the Committee members did not obtain administrative approval to use P A system and organize such a rally. However, they took out a rally today with administrative approval, he added.

 

 

Adi Baptist Fellowship at Parbuk

ROING, Apr 4: The Adi Baptist Fellowship began its second gathering at Parbuk Baptist Church from April 3 to 5 bringing together all the top Baptist leaders from the tribe.

The first gathering of the fellowship was held at Mirmir at Pasighat last year in March.

Reverend Mikin Perme, convenor of Adi Baptist Fellowship informed that it is the outcome of series of meeting held to bring together all the four Adi Baptist Association of Arunachal Pradesh,

Nine delegates from Baptist Association of capital complex also took part in the gathering.

“We are happy that Adi Baptist Churches are united together once again after many years, said Reverend Perme.

The first day was the arrival of the Baptist leaders. During the day they had prayers and Reverend Simai, General Secretary of Arunachal Baptist Council delivered the message of god.  It was followed by presentation of folk dances, songs and gospel songs by the members of Dibang, Lohit Baptist Christian Association.

“We pray for development of our churches, state and nation and also for political leaders so that they may rule with fear of god,” said Reverend Perme.

As per the records from Adi Baptist Fellowship gathering, Christianity in Adi tribe came in 19th century. It was spread by missionaries from England and America. These missionaries developed the Adi script in 1906 which was brought out in the form of Abor Miri dictionary.

 

 

Finally, SSA teachers to get their salaries!

PASIGHAT, Apr 4: In what could be termed as major sigh of relief for the SSA teachers serving in the state, an amount of Rs 98,15,59,772 has been released for their salaries, informed Education Minister Bosiram Siram today.

While a JT will get Rs 26, 543,  an AT will get 21,175 which is almost at par with regular teachers’ salaries. Arrears from May 2011 upto March 2012 has also been released and will be paid to the teachers soon, Siram said.

It is worth mentioning here that earlier JTs and ATs under SSA used to get Rs. 8,500 and 7,500 respectively.

Siram, immediately after taking over helm of affairs, raised the salaries of the JTs and ATs by 50%.

While assuring timely disbursement of salaries henceforth, the minister asked the SSA teachers to be regular and sincere in their duties and remain in their posting places. He exhorted them to discharge duties with devotion   to impart quality education. He expressed his thankfulness to the Chief Minister Nabam Tuki for his help and cooperation to make all this developments possible.

Recently, Anshu Vaish, Secretary SE/L and Anita Kaul, Jt. Secretary SE/L both from MHRD visited the  state for grassroots level assessment.

They expressed their satisfaction on the function and achievements of the SSA Rajya Mission and had assured to provide more assistance from the Center for development of education sector.

Siram also informed that the state government has made it a policy priority and continued process to construct barracks and quarters for the teachers in tough areas. He said over 300 barracks/quarters have been constructed so far and another 300 barracks/quarters has been proposed. DIPRO

 

 

Kri urges GBs, PRI leaders to remain alert to local situation

TEZU, Apr 4: Reminding the power, functions and role of a Gaon Burah (GBs) as a village head, Parliamentary Secretary Karikho Kri advised them to remain alert to local situation and in case of any doubt and suspicion they should report it immediately to district administration or police.

Gaon Burahs enjoy various powers within his/her jurisdiction and one of such is judicial power under which they can settle local disputes/cases related to marriage, cattle and land among others. Kri said this while attending a programme to felicitate the Head Gaon Burahs (HGBs) and GBs of Tezu-Sunpura on April 2.

He sought their cooperation and active participation in all government programmes and policies.

Altogether 55 GBs and HGBs were felicitated on the occasion with their signature red coats, umbrella, torch light, register and seal.

Expressing serious concern over two reported drug related deaths in Tezu, Kri asked every GB present on the occasion to undertake resolution to minimize the use of drugs in any form, especially opium. He also urged the PRI leaders to keep hawk’s eye on their surroundings.

Touching upon total sanitation campaign in the district, Kri informed his plan of completing the construction of sanitation toilets in every house of Tezu-Sunpura within 2015, two years before the target year of 2017.

The Deputy Commissioner R.K. Sharma, while congratulating the newly appointed Gaon Burahs said that, “the GBs are the grassroots level representatives of the administration and they have the responsibility in maintaining law and order at that level”.

“There are some cases and disputes in Arunachal Pradesh which our judicial set up of court cannot take decision. The land dispute is one such case where the GBs with the help of village elders can come out with a decision,” the DC said.  He urged the GBs to act as a medium in order to earmark land where schools, medical, or any other development institutions could be established.

He also said that since the GBs have the power to impose compensation and bring justice, they must be impartial while delivering justice based on truth.

Sharma, however, asked them to be cautious while giving away their signature in an application or form, especially in case of recommending ST Certificates, Permanent Resident Certificate etc.

Goan Burahs appealed to the Government for better facilities and issuance of identity cards.

Superintendent of police Isaac Pertin, other administrative officers, and panchayat members were present in the programme. DIPRO

 

 

SWIMs cries for teachers

‘Govt. responsibility does not end in upgrading school’

ITANAGAR, Apr 4: When the state government is on the move to strengthen the education system of the state by approving a good number of open universities, colleges and polytechnic institutes in various parts of the state  there are several high and secondary schools across the state which need equal or even more attention from government as numerous students future are at stake.

A team of Social Welfare Intellectual Movements (SWIMs) of Mebo, East Siang, which is presently camping here at capital to pursue the matter of non-sanctioning of senior teachers (STs) and other ministerial staff against Govt. Higher Secondary School Borguli, said that “though the state is on its way to educational revolution, the government has somewhere completely failed to fulfill the basic requirements of several schools after their upgradation”.

The other schools which are of the same fate, the SWIMS said, are GHSS Ruksin (E/Siang), GHSS Muri-Mugli (Upper Subansiri), GHSS Jairampur (Changlang), GHSS Chayang Tajo (East Kameng), GHSS Wakka (Tirap), GHSS Talo (L/Subansisri), GHSS NM Aalo (West Siang), GHSS Pompoli (East Kameng) and GHSS Pangchau (Tirap).

These schools were upgraded in 2008-09, but all are running without senior teachers and other ministerial staffs due to non-sanctioning of ST post. And owing to its upgradation, the students of these schools are not given admission in nearby high schools on jurisdictional criteria. Hence, students of these schools are left on the mercy of god and few other voluntary junior teachers, the release said.

“It would be much better from state’s part, if government give priority to these basic requirements of the schools so that students of those schools could also get the privilege to study in the newly approved universities and colleges. Otherwise, the government will be held completely responsible for the debacle of student’s future of these ill fated ambiguous schools, the release added.

While submitting the letter comprised of signed notes of public leaders, SMCs, along with note of urgent request from Principal GHSS Borguli, DDSE East Siang and MLA 39th Mebo Constituency to Minister, Education for immediate creation of ST post against GHSS Borguli, the SWIMs members also met the Commissioner, Director School Education, Director Elementary Education.

Apart from these problems, the SWIMs also strongly appealed to the state government to look into the concerns of GSS Kiyit and Motum which are facing the same fate of that of non-sanctioning of posts after its upgradation through Governor’s notification No.ED.3/119/2008-09 and No.3/151/2006-07 respectively which are located in the same sub-division.

 

 

The Mopin story

Dr.Tejum Padu

 

The Mopin is a sacred ritual festival of the Galo tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. The festival has myth, religious chanting, rhythmic with vigorous 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 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 ignorant of the prosperity and plentifulness that modern and civilized people are enjoying today through agriculture.

The Mythology

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 him ( Abo-Tani ) that Takar-Taji ( Terrestrial being living separately elsewhere) are going to conduct a big wedding ceremony and sacrifice 10  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 abode of Takar-Taji on the pretence of attending the marriage 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’ ( 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 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 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 organized 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 a packet of bones. But both Dumpu and Kipu quarreled with each other. Dumpu destroyed Agya-Posum and kicked up lote Posum and ran away. Kipu  followed Dumpu. Dumpu requested for shelter to Kune Lamne :- “Tusi Yela Beka, Tusi Balabeka”.

Kune Lamne replied- “Ngo Tusi Bale Maye, Kune Bulu Em, Lamne Bulu Em, Buto Laka Ade”

And Abo Tani 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, imprisoned Abo-Tani and Kipu. 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, Bedu Namsie ,Yibi Yeke,  Opo Namba E Reya Yeku,  Ngo Tani Pumsi Gibolo,  Ngo Tani Romo Be Hibolo,  Ngom Nyigo Be Gosa Dedo Ye, Ngom Hogo Be Gosa Dedo Ye”

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 him 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 come back to earth and sowed the seeds in a barren place, called Abin Bindo Poko Loto, which was eaten up by wild birds.

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 soul. 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 Mopion 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 Ane, 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 images of Bagoporpote, Litumkatum, Pinkupinte, Pirkungu, Pirte, Pomte, Pirsapirsi, Yapom, Nyiji, Nyiku, Bute, Yapom Nyira, Kobu, Hikom, Pombek, Dogaerap, Hilingeli, Rine, Urom, Pombe-pomru, Kombo, Komar are included.

Plants like, Pibom, Piso, Taka, Tari, Tajir, Tabo, Tato-Tano, Tapi, Ekam, Hika, Ensi, Eni.hire, Popi, Tabutabe, Yadum, Kora, Tare, Nyome, Tasi etc are used for preparation of the images of all the deities at the altar of the Mopin.

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 the daughters of Mopin endowed various agricultural implements and seeds; and taught the art of cultivation to Abo-Tani– ( Though other deities also contributed in their own way ).

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 BC. 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 importance 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 welcomed 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 traditional 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. Logically, when Mopin has given so much to us, it is also natural we offer back through Hika- food and Opo.

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 remorse. 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. The story also tells that marrying more leads to downfall of the family.

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 and social integration.

Union demands enquiry

ITANAGAR, April 4: Lower Subansiri District Nyishi Students’ Union (LSDNSU) has demanded enquiry into the alleged involvement of Govt officers in contract works in the district.

The union in a release alleged the Govt officers in various departments in the district are involving themselves in contract works in name of their relatives with total violation of service norms. The student body further said that Govt departments, particularly agriculture and horticulture department is also violating all laid down Govt norms while making payment to the contractors.

 

Association opposes

ITANAGAR, Apr 4: The All Arunachal Pradesh Tribal Welfare Association (AAPTWA) strongly resented the formation of Arunachal Capital Complex Non-Tribal Welfare Association. In this regard today members of AAPTWA held a meeting with executive members of Arunachal Capital Complex Non-Tribal Welfare Association. Following the discussion, the later agreed to discard their association.

 

Association appeals CM for help

ITANAGAR, Apr 4: Describing the woes of persons with disabilities in Arunachal Pradesh, the All Papum Pare District Handicapped Welfare Association (APPDHWA) appealed to the Chief Minister Nabam Tuki to look into their various problems for early redressal.

While apprising the CM of some of the pressing needs and demands of the people with disabilities, APPDHWA, urged the CM to issue BPL ration cards to physically handicapped persons, beside providing tri-cycle and issuing I-cards and disability certificates etc.

The association also demanded for implementation of 3% reservation for differently abled persons in government jobs, establishment of a colony for physically handicapped persons at district headquarters, which has been a long-pending demand, and providing ambulance to APPDHWA.

 

KVK training at Kitpi

ITANAGAR, Apr 4: Scientific method of raising paddy seedlings and preparing blue algea and its use in paddy field were taught to the practising farmers in a training programme organized by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Tawang at Kitpi village today.

Altogether 27 farmers participated in the training programme .

Training on raising vegetable seedlings and their precautionary measures and integrated fish farming, particularly duck cum fish farming in hilly region were also discussed for the benefit of the farmers.

Later, in an interaction session with the resource persons, the farmers got their various agriculture related doubts cleared. Paddy seeds (of Ketki joha and Bahadur) were also distributed to 10 progressive farmers for front line demonstration purpose.

 

Parl Secy, DC visit JNV Megdong

ITANAGAR, Apr 4: Nido Povitro, Parliamentary Secretary (Health & Family Welfare and Food & Civil Supply) and Ameya Abyankar, Deputy Commissioner cum Chairmen Viyalaya Management Committee Upper Subansiri district visited Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Megdong on April 3.

The staff and students of the Vidyalaya hoped that their visit to the school would be fruitful and encourage them.

 

Goan Burahs seek forest patrol team

ITANAGAR, Apr 4: The All Arunachal Pradesh Gaon Bura Welfare Association Papum Pare district unit said that a major forest fire was doused today in Gumto-Emchi area of Doimukh circle. More than 25 labourers struggled for hours to douse the fire. Further the Gaon Burahs expressed concern over forest fire in the capital region.

They called on local administration and forest department to prohibit Jhumming practice in haphazard manner and constitute forest patrol team to apprehend those people who are indiscriminately setting fire to the forest.

 

ITBP’s LRP baton reaches Dirang

BOMDILA, Apr  4: The Golden Jubilee relay long-range patrolling (LRP baton, which was handed over to 4th BN Dirang by 33rd Guwahati at Seppa on March 31, reached Dirang.

The baton was displayed before 300 people consisting of school children, locals SSB and state police personnel in a function organized on April 2 at ST Lopon Stadium, Dirang.

The programme was attended by KK Barua, Director, National Research Centre on Yak, the Commandant, 30th BN SSB and Heads of various departments, officers of civil administration of Dirang sub-division.

The main highlights of the day were cultural presentations and band display by North-East Band platoon of ITBP. DIPRO

Make your parents proud

Dear Editor,

The demolition of statues of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr D Ering is not only a shame for Adi belt but for all the people of Arunachal as well.

My younger brothers, if you have guts, face competitive exams instead of involving yourselves in destructive activities. You should make yourselves and your parents proud by cracking competitive examination or facing interview in defense services.  If they involve themselves in such competitive field, at least they will not disturb the pride of the state.

Shake the world through your good deeds and make our parents proud.

Yours,

Anong Apang

 

 

RGU lost the respect

Dear Editor,

With utter dismay and distress, I state that the recent RGU interview was nothing but a biggest joke of the era. If they have to select their own contractual candidates, then why did they had conducted the interview? Their unexpected act really shocked one and all.

Trust me! I have stopped appearing for the state interview exams, as they are already fixed. I have reached viva-voce five times of different interviews, during the last two years. I have cleared none of them. I know the reason behind it.

But I filled the RGU forms as I hoped that atleast the University would be fair. Huh! But it was a bigger joke. They asked for four set of documents. I am still confused with that. But I have a greatest hope that someday I would certainly figure it out.

Now picking one of the classic examples from the pool of examples, i.e., Lab assistant written examination was cleared by many candidates.

During viva, they said that only graduate or post graduate were eligible to attend. If that was the eligibility requirements, then why did they call the candidates for the written examination who did not have B.Sc or M.Sc? Besides they had advertised clearly that educational requirement was Class XII Science passed for the post.  During scrutiny, did not they find out that non-B.Sc candidate have applied for it too?

Whatever is the reason, but RGU board members should know that some candidates have travelled two days from their village or hometown to attend this interview with a ray of hope that RGU would be fair.

Many have spent almost Rs 500 for the photocopying of the documents you have asked, with earnest sincerity and trust. You have shattered the trust of millions. You might have achieved what you wanted in this interview, but remember you have lost your luster. You lost what you had earned so far. The respect.

God bless Arunachal!

Yours,

Tapu Baja,  Daporijo

 

 

Menchukha awaits Govt initiatives

Dear Editor,

I would like to highlight the basic problems faced by the people residing in the God's own abode i.e. Menchukha valley. Menchukha is one of the famous tourist destinations of the state. But God’s own abode is waiting for Government’s attention in the field of Horticulture and Agriculture sector.

The main stay of the local people in the valley is agriculture. Poor fertility of soil, lack of awareness and scientific equipment makes it difficult for the people. Only millet is grown which does not have much returns.

Since there is no other avenue for income generation many young men and woman even elderly people are engaging themselves in road construction work under GREF and other contractual works of departments.

This energetic youths who understand the dignity of labour could certainly change the socio-scenario of the area if provided with chance.

If they are provided with employment opportunity, which may come from tourism and agriculture sectors, the economic situation could change to a great extent. We know that cold climatic condition is quite suitable for Horticulture development especially kiwi, apple, walnuts, tomato and potato etc.

Therefore, I highly request  the Government to pay proper heed and encourage cultivation of cash crops and tourism.

Yours,

Nyima Nyajung

Menchukha

 

 

RGU’s April fool celebration

Dear Editor,

It all started with the advertisement for filling up of various posts in RGU. A ray of hope for many unemployed youths flowered as the spring approached. But who knew that they would be severely betrayed leaving everyone in deep shock.

For the filling up of various posts it required four copies of every document with four passport size photos resulting into half a kilogram of envelope filled with papers for a single post.

Many of the aspiring candidates did apply for more than one post as per their qualification but later on many of the posts given in advertisement were missing including draftsman, surveyor, store keeper etc. When enquired, it was told that the exam or interview for the same will not be conducted. Only god and the authorities know what happened to the missing posts.

The lists of those who have cleared the written exam were declared on 27/03/12. For every post around 1:10 ratio was maintained. For 8 posts of lab attendants, 80 candidates were selected. What kind of pattern was that?

The viva voice was scheduled on 29/03/12 and 30/03/12 accordingly. For the post of lab assistants, the scheduled time was 11 AM on 29/03/12. But to the horror of many, the viva voice for above post did not start until 8.30 pm and lasted till 2 am the next morning. What kind of cruel joke was that? May be they should be listed in Limca book of records for conducting interview till 2 AM.

Meanwhile, during the interview, candidates who were pursuing their higher education were told that they would not be able to concentrate in job as well as studies.  And if the candidate already had a higher degree they were taunted as overqualified.  

If these were to be the response of the RGU authorities, it should have been mentioned beforehand in the advertisement.

The final results were declared on 31/03/12. Almost all appointed were contract staff already serving in Rajiv Gandhi University. For LDC, out of 12 posts advertised only 8 posts were filled.

For one post of technical assistant in chemistry, two candidates were selected for viva voice but neither of them got the job. For the 6 posts of lab assistants, 62 candidates were selected for viva voice deviating from their own self made recruitment ratio 1:10. The list was merit wise yet the last two candidates walked away with the prize!

I would like to congratulate the authorities for organizing such a wonderful April fool day. Hats off to Rajiv Gandhi University authorities!

Yours,

A citizen

 

 

We assure cooperation

Dear Editor,

The coordination displayed by the East Siang district administration and police in dealing with the case of desecration of statues of Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi and Dr D Ering at Pasighat recently is appreciable. The improvement in the law and order scenario and immediate booking of the suspected culprits before the expiry of the  time  given by various organizations has boost the morale of the citizens of Pasighat in particular and the East Siang in general.   Such type of coordinated efforts was warranted and if this could have been done earlier, then the crime rate would have minimized to a great extent.

Hope, in near future, both the district administration and police department will continue the same spirit and coordination to curb the menace of crime so that Pasighat can be best town of Arunachal Pradesh.   We assure you of our sincere cooperation in making Pasighat a crime free town of the state.

Yours,

Oyem Dai

President, Bogong Banggo Kebang

Pasighat

 

 

 

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

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Shaping the lives of adolescent girls

Many teenage girls, particularly in the less developed parts of the country, drop out of school because they do not have access to even basic amenities for menstrual care. A number of them end up suffering from serious gynecological disorders, because of poor hygiene. From interrupted education to loss of wages and medical trauma, the consequences of poor health and hygiene are varied but uniformly unpleasant for women.

Indeed, given that nearly a third of the nation’s population is in the 10-19 age group, the problem is by no means minor. Yet, there have been very few concerted governmental or private initiatives of note to address the issue that affects the development of countless girls around the country.

In this respect, a healthcare company teams up with UNICEF for running a programme designed to provide deprived women basic health and hygiene care.

Other than working with the common folk, the programme managers will seek to develop relevant knowledge and skills among self help groups, Anganwadi workers and other stakeholders who play a critical role in shaping the lives of adolescent girls.