April 12

News Impact

• Pong-Tuh celebrated with traditional fervor
• Tea and Rubber Board on the cards
• Sordid state of Seppa district hospital
• APDA against pick and choose method
• Ete, Mize attend sustainable mountain development summit
• Threat of agitation as Pasighat plunges into darkness
• TERI conducts workshop on energy conservation
• Aalo STS celebrates hat trick of revenue achievement
• Cultural exposure tour of Sikkim, WB, Nepal
• APEDA workshop on energy conservation
• Stride of developments at RGU

Pong-Tuh celebrated with traditional fervor

KHONSA/CHANGLANG, Apr 11: Tutsa community of Tirap and Changlang districts celebrated Pong-Tuh festival with pomp and gaiety and traditional fervour today.

Attending the celebration at Khonsa, Finance, PWD and Planning Minister Chowna Mein said that though a number of festivals are celebrated in Arunachal Pradesh at different periods with different modes but the spirit of celebration is same.  He said that festivals foster love, peace and a sense of oneness among all the different ethnic groups. Mein said the present state government has initiated necessary steps to ensure that the traditional systems of the tribals are properly and systematically documented for the posterity for which the departments of Art and Culture and Research had been asked to play a pro-active role. The minister passionately appealed to the Tutsas to zealously guard their culture which is their identity.

While throwing light on some of the new and innovative policies and programmes of the state government, Mein said that plans are on the anvil to replace the unproductive shifting cultivation by more economically viable tea and rubber plantations adding that the government was according top priority to agriculture and horticulture sectors. He urged upon the youth to take up self-employment ventures without depending on the government for white-collar jobs alone.

The minister also announced a number of sops for Khonsa in particular and Tirap district in general to the cheers and applause of the people.

He also witnessed the reading of chicken liver by the priest at the traditional ‘paang.’.

Yumsen Matey, Parliamentary Secretary for DoTC and SWWCD in his speech highlighted the significance of Pong-Tuh and prayed for bumper crop and well-being of all during the new year and in the years to come.

He lamented that the rich traditional systems are being sacrificed at the altar of modernity adding that the fear of losing the rich and varied age-old traditional practices is being felt all over the state. He said that religion and culture are two totally different entities adding that no attempt whatsoever should be made to mix them. Matey said that religion is a private matter while culture is a collective treasure of a community and is the identity of the tribals.

He announced that the sub-divisional headquarters of hydropower department has been sanctioned for Tirap district and appealed all to maintain unity among themselves.

Earlier, the local MLA and the main host of the celebrations Kamthok Lowang while extending his Pong-Tuh greetings hoped that the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Nabam Tuki would pay adequate attention to the problems of backward Tirap and the Tutsas.  He announced that the sub-divisional headquarters of hydropower department has been sanctioned for Tirap district and appealed all to maintain unity among themselves.

Earlier, the local MLA and the main host of the celebrations Kamthok Lowang while extending his Pong-Tuh greetings hoped that the state government under the able leadership of Chief Minister Nabam Tuki would pay adequate attention to the problems of backward Tirap and the Tutsas.

He asked the Tutsas to spare no efforts to preserve their culture adding that the world had become fiercely competitive and so the Tutsa youth must be fully prepared to compete against the best.

PongTuh folkdances, modern dances and community feast marked the day-long celebration.

Chief Engineer, PWD Toli Basar, DC, SP, Brigadier, military station, Khonsa, COs of 19 AR, 36 CRPF, Panchayat leaders and public attended the programme.

The Tutsas of Changlang also celebrated the festival with great enthusiasm.

Food & Civil Supplies Minister Kamlung Mossang while dwelling on the importance of preservation of age-old culture, expressed that using traditional dress, food, traditional materials, performing traditional dances, etc  at the time of festival is not enough rather one must  inspire the younger generations to be rooted with customs and tradition. He emphasized that while preserving the age old culture certain malicious things connected with such culture should be shunned.

While expressing sadness over the economic backwardness of the local populace, he appealed all and sundry to bring positive changes to the age old mind set and develop work culture to progress. He also expressed concern over the poor academic performance of students, especially local students. He said that discipline and hard work is the only way of success. They must be responsible committed, honest, sincere and determined to improve themselves, added the minister.

Parliamentary Secretary (Water Resources) Thinghaap Taiju while extending the festival greetings informed that  he was very happy to see the younger generation is taking part in such occasion and their spirit and determination would lead to progress in the Tutsa community and society as a whole,” he added.

Earlier Ex MLA, Wangnia Pongte expressed his warm welcome to the distinguished guests.

The day long celebration began with beating of drums, which echoed throughout the township. Large number of cultural troupes from different Tutsa villages of the district turned up in their best traditional attires for the festival.

Changlang Deputy Commissioner Opak Gao, SP Tumme Amo, ZPMs Changlang South and North, Commandant 4 AR, All heads of Offices, Govt officials, Gaoh Burahs and public leaders attended the festival.

The literal meaning Pong-Tuh is repelling wind where Pong means wind and Tuh repel.  DIPRO

 

 

Tea and Rubber Board on the cards

ITANAGAR, Apr 11: In a step to gainfully employ the unemployed youths in the state, the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has started rolling his development wagon plan to accommodate youths in tea and rubber plantation schemes.

Presiding over a meeting in his office conference hall today to create a separate Tea and Rubber Board, the chief minister asserted for expediting the process in order to facilitate the interested youths in horticulture and cash crop farming. He called the officers to prepare feasible plans and formulate it for execution in the current financial year.

Tuki also threw light on encouraging the budding farmers who have been growing tea in their respective areas with their own limited resources. He asked the department of Trade and Commerce which is the nodal department for encouraging cash crops to prepare a prospective tea road map for Arunachal Pradesh where the beneficiaries can be benefitted. The CM strongly advocated for establishing a branch of Tea Board in the state capital so that the small tea growers can avail benefits from such institutions.

Taking serious note of the excessive practice of Jhum cultivation in the state, the chief minister stressed for conversion of the traditional practice into Organic Tea Cultivation.

“The areas already used for Jhum cultivation may be encouraged for converting into Organic Tea Cultivation with suitable plan in place” directed the Chief Minister to the concern department.  He observed that due to the practice of Jhumming, the forest of the state have been widely destroyed which is an alarming factor. “Besides substituting the Jhum cultivation, tea and rubber plantations if encouraged in right perspective would substantially increase the forest cover which stands at 82% at present”, the chief minister confidently said. He called for a collective effort to increase more greenery so that Arunachal Pradesh finds a place in second green revolution, a programme of central government. He further asked the department of Trade and Commerce to expedite the process of organic certification by engaging a competent party.

Issuing specific directives to the Forest Department to issue NOC to the farmers interested for taking up tea and rubber plantation in their respective areas, the chief minister assured to place adequate fund for establishing Tea factories wherever required in the state.

The chief minister informed the house that after assessing the ground reality and collecting the overall data, the state shall press on the centre for a special package for Tea and Rubber.

“Every household in the state should get the benefit of self employment and self sustenance”, Tuki emphatically said.

While categorizing the landscape of the state into three sectors, Tuki suggested the house to promote agriculture in the foothill areas, horticulture, tea and rubber in the middle belt and medicinal plants for the high altitude areas. He directed the department to make plan and policy considering the viability and production of commodities accordance to the area.

Among others, Commissioners, secretaries, directors were present in the meeting.

Tea growers meet CM, demands proper policy

A delegation of Arunachal Pradesh Small Tea Growers’ Association (APSTGA) yesterday called on the Chief Minister Nabam Tuki  and  requested him for early establishment of branch Tea Board in the state and formulation of  jhum control policy.

While submitting a five-point memorandum to the CM, the  Association further demanded for preparation of a detailed project report for bringing 10,000 hectares of land under tea cultivation during this financial year, conversion of jhum lands into tea gardens and early steps for easy procedure in  obtaining environmental clearance  certificate for tea growers from the Ministry of Environment  and Forests.

The Association informed that the CM assured to consider the demands on priority basis. The Association further claimed that Tuki instructed the department concerned to conduct an urgent meeting for comprehensive discussion on preparation of a ‘road map’ for tea plantation with special reference to conversion of jhum cultivation land to organic tea cultivation gave the assurance to establish tea and rubber plantation board in the state shortly.

 

 

Sordid state of Seppa district hospital

Amar Sangno

ITANAGAR, Apr 11: At a time when the health department is striving to modernize and improve the health care system in the state, the pathetic condition of District Hospital Seppa tells a different story.

The horrible condition of the district hospital with stained walls, rusty tools and bare steel beds show that the word “cleanliness” has no meaning here. One can imagine what would happen to the patients who lay on bare wooden bed just near the nauseating rubbishes in the hospital.  It is said that unhygienic condition of the hospital could make patients more vulnerable to disease than ever before.  

Apart from all the nuisances, this correspondent, during a visit to the hospital, noticed a labour table meant for labour room in male ward. Sincerity of the hospital staff can easily be  judged from this poor state of affairs of the lone district hospital. There is nothing to surprise if a first timer is left with nausea in such pathetic condition.

Moreover, the hospital has neither X-ray and ultra sound facilities nor the required equipments in operation theatre.

To the utter surprise of this correspondent, the hospital has no gynecologist.  Sometime patient attendants have to help nurses in delivery cases.

On being enquired, one of the doctors disclosed that no modern medical facilities are available in the hospital.

Is the health department aware of the pathetic condition of the hospital ?

 

 

APDA against pick and choose method

ITANAGAR, Apr 11: The Arunachal Pradesh Doctors’ Association (APDA) has expressed its displeasure at violation of Service Rules/APHS Cadre Rule 2000 by the Government, particularly relating to appointment of DMOs/DDHS and re-instatement of officers after many years’ break in service.

During a meeting, it stated that appointment of DMO/DDHS should be strictly through DPC as per APHS Cadre Rule-2000 duly notified by the Government.

It further said that government should immediately stop appointing DMOs/DDHS by ‘pick’ and ‘choose’ method and on Officiating basis. If necessary, all those Officers Officiating as DMOs/DDHS superseding their seniors and appointed outside the DPC should be called back and fresh DPC should be conducted, the doctors further noted.

They also suggested that amendment of APHS Cadre Rule 2000 as per Dr. BVS Murthy Sub-Committee Recommendation should be pursued with the Government and the proposed enhancement of DMO/DDHS pay scales (PB-4) should be implemented.

Re-instatement after break in service should be discouraged and all order for such reinstatement taken should be cancelled.  However, if at all such service is sought by the government; such case should be treated as per Civil Service Rules and the decision should be such that their re-appointing or re-instating should not violate or deprive the promotional avenue of other eligible senior APDA members (In-Service Officers) as per the Seniority Civil List in existence. The meeting further decided to take up with the govt on the creation of posts of  Consultant, Health Research/Medical Research Officer.

Senior Officers from 14 District Units of APDA including Tawang, Arunachal State Hospital and Health Directorate attended the meeting which was convened on April 10.

 

 

Ete, Mize attend sustainable mountain development summit

Staff Reporter

Kohima, Apr 11: Galo Welfare Society president Jarjum Ete and Future Generations Arunachal executive director Nalong Mize represented the state in the 2nd Sustainable Mountain Development summit conducted by Indian Mountain Initiative at Kohima Tuesday last.

During the day-long summit, Ete gave presentation on water hazards in the mountains, its ecosystem, traditional system of water preservation, water rights and policy.

She also explained the role of community based organizations in preserving and management of water through traditional systems.

Mize presented on traditional rights and  community ownership over forests, conservation based incentives to communities, strengthening community participation, human-wildlife conflict and understanding REDD (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation). Officials and NGO representatives from Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Sikkim, Assam, Darjeeling and Nainital participated in the summit.

Later, Ete and Mize visited a community Mithun Rearing Centre sponsored by Ratan Tata Trust at Thatshemi, Phek district today.

 

 

Threat of agitation as Pasighat plunges into darkness

Correspondent

PASIGHAT, Apr 11: Century-old Pasighat town and its nearby areas, which has been witnessing massive power cut and erratic power supply for years, is again plunged into darkness since April 10. The worst affected are students, many of whom are writing their board examinations.

Erratic power supply has evoked strong resentment and anger among the consumers including the members of Pasighat Public Welfare Committee (PPWC).

Expressing strong resentment over the frequent disruption of power supply, the consumers have threatened rigorous agitation against the failure of power department.

Bogong Banggo ZPM Okom Yosung, who is leading the PPWC, said this evening that prolonged power cut is creating great inconvenience to the consumers which has compelled them to make alternative arrangements incurring extra expenditure. He said the authority, despite repeated commitment, has miserably failed to improve the power scenario in the area.

Yosung informed that his committee is convening a public meeting regarding power problem on April 15 next.Meanwhile, PPWC has planned to call 48-hour Pasighat bandh after April 15, the first in the series of phase-wise agitation.

According to information, the Pasighat electrical division has issued a circular stating that there would be power cut for the day for repairing of some poles along the main line. But the power supply has not been restored till filing of this report.

 

 

TERI conducts workshop on energy conservation

ITANAGAR, Apr 11: A ‘master trainers training’ workshop for school teachers on energy conservation and its efficient use was conducted by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) at URC Building, Naharlagun today.

The teachers were trained on various tools and methods of energy conservation by resource persons from TERI, New Delhi headed by Ranjana Saikia.  More than 65 teachers from various government and private schools attended the training workshop. The participants were awarded certificates of participation.

Attending the workshop, Itanagar Capital Complex Deputy Commissioner Onit Payeng urged all the teachers to take advantage of such training workshops and carry forward the learning to their classrooms. Educators should try and incorporate all new learnings in their classrooms so the students are benefited at large, he added.

Papum Pare Deputy Director of School Education T. T. Tara pointed out various steps that can be taken up at individual level to conserve energy and use it efficiently.

Dr A K Mishra, Coordinator, Pedagogy Department appealed all the teachers to educate students about these issues and also apply these activities in CCA.

The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) is organizing training workshops for school teachers on ‘Energy Conservation and its Efficient Use’ in 22 states and Union Territories including Arunachal Pradesh, as part of its project ‘BEACON’ (Building Energy Awareness on Conservation) initiated under the aegis of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Ministry of Power, Govt. of India.

 

 

Aalo STS celebrates hat trick of revenue achievement

Aalo, Apr 11: Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Services, Aalo celebrated ‘hat trick’ of revenue achievement by achieving revenue target for the three consecutive years from 2009.

STS Aalo earned Rs.1,38,50,902, Rs 1,49,18,574 and Rs 1,76,63,238 against revenue targets of Rs 1,23,04,967, Rs 1,34,34,671 and Rs 1,68,06,784 in the year, 2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12 respectively.

Attending a function organized to celebrate the achievement at APSTS office complex here yesterday, Station Superintendent, STS, Aalo Tuter Nima credited the sincere and dedicated staff for the rare achievement. The annual best performance awards for best Driver, best Mechanic and Conductors were also given on the occasion.

Former Minister Doi Ado, who also attended the function, advised the officer and staff of the station to maintain the same spirit and tempo in future too. He advised the drivers to be more careful while driving for safety and security of passengers.

Former MLA Tumpak Ete urged them to carry forward the work for benefit of the West Siang district in particular and state and nation as a whole.

A K Mishra, Lieutenant Colonel 5th Mountain Brigade Aalo, also spoke on the occasion and appreciated the leadership qualities of the Station Superintendent under whose guidance the Revenue target is achieved consecutively for three years.

 

 

Cultural exposure tour of Sikkim, WB, Nepal

Correspondent

RUKSIN, Apr 11: A twenty-member cultural exposure team including members of a woman Self Help Group of Bilat village in East Siang district has embarked on a tour of Sikkim, West Bengal and Nepal today. The team would visit Dulabari (Nepal), Natula Pass, Darjeeling and Kalipong in West Bengal within this fortnight.

Ellison Siram, an Anchal Somiti Member of Bilat, who is leading the fortnight-long tour, informed this correspondent that his team would join the “Inter-state Cultural Exchange” to be held at Gangtok on April 14 next.

They would demonstrate various traditional cultures of “Adis” including Mirii Po:nung.

Siram, who is also the president of East Siang unit of Indian Trade Union Congress, has sponsored the present tour programme to train the cultural team on various cultural heritages besides ways of self employment activities in these states.

During the tour, it also plans to visit number of industries and cultural research centres in Sikkim and Nepal.

 

 

APEDA workshop on energy conservation

BOMDILA, Apr 11: A one-day workshop on “Solar water heating system, energy efficiency and energy conservation” was organized by Arunachal Pradesh Energy Development Agency (APEDA), Bomdila division  here yesterday.

The main objective of the workshop was to bring awareness among the masses on the need to conserve energy to meet the growing demands.

The technical session of the workshop was conducted with PowerPoint presentation on the main topic by Er. S K Shahi, Project Officer, APEDA Itanagar.

Touching upon various aspects of importance and essence of energy to human existence in  today’s world and its conservational imperatives, Shahi said that the growing needs of the energy could be met by meeting optimum use of the resources and this can be done by convergence and contraction within the resources available in the earth.

He said that the actual requirement of energy today is of two earths which is not possible for us. Hence, there is need to make optimal use of resources in our single planet, the earth and for that building of energy awareness on conservation too is important for all of us, he said.

He also elaborated about the effects of the global warming due to emission of green house gases.

He gave some importance tips for conservation of energy, such as switching off light, TV, fan, refrigerator, computer, etc when not in use, use of star qualified electrical appliances; maximum use of day lights; make optimum use of tape water to minimize power consumption and water wastages; battery operated cars, follow 3 Rs – Reduce, Re-use and Recycle.

Deputy Director, APEDA, Bomdila elaborated about water heating systems and its beneficial through video- audio presentations.

The workshop sponsored by Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Sources ( MNES) with suport from Bureau of Energy Efficiency GOI was attended by HoDs, officers and officials,  local public leaders and some selected  students. DIPRO

 

 

Stride of developments at RGU

Dr. Nani T. Jose

Rajiv Gandhi University (formerly Arunachal University) is the premier institution for higher education in the state of Arunachal Pradesh and has completed twenty five years of its existence. Ever since its inception, the university has been trying to achieve excellence and fulfill the objectives as envisaged in the University Act.

In spite of infrastructural constraints, the University has been maintaining its academic excellence.  The University has strictly adhered to the academic calendar, conducted the examinations and declared the results in time.  The students from the University have found placements not only in State and Central Government services, but also in various institutions, industries and organizations.   Many students have come out successful in the National Eligibility Test (NET). Since inception, the University has made significant progress in teaching, research, innovations in curriculum development and developing infrastructure.

In the past university had witnessed a short term hiccup due to some disturbances. No doubt it had created a short term halt but this did not deter the academic and developmental activities of the University. Now the University is in its right track with the appointment of able and dynamic leadership under Prof. David R. Syiemlieh, as the Vice Chancellor of the Rajiv Gandhi University. The academic and administrative set up is streamlined to a greater extend, developmental projects are speeding up, funds have been brought from UGC and other funding agencies for infrastructure facilities, and governance has also improved substantially.

It is a matter of privilege and proud to have a dynamic Vice Chancellor on whose joining university is becoming to bloom in almost all aspects. The development and academic activities got a fillip the day he joined the university.  Within a short record span of six months time we have seen lot of developmental activities starting from conduct of Convocation to Selection Test for non-teaching posts.  We must appreciate the Vice Chancellor for his motivational leadership and utmost inclination for taking this university to a higher and national mainstream level. On his joining within a short period he was instrumental for successful conduct of Convocation, Academic Council meeting, Finance Committee meeting, Executive Council meeting, preparation of Annual Reports and 12 Five Year Plan proposal and projects document, hosting many National and International seminars, workshop, other academic activities and visit of US Ambassador for the first time in the history of the University. But one thing for which the Vice Chancellor deserves deepest appreciation is the conduct of selection test for various 45 non-teaching posts which were lying vacant for long. In a record time the selection procedure was completed with all fair and transparent means giving no scope of any fowl play. Had it not been the ability of the present Vice Chancellor and his fair decision with support of university fraternity to start the process of recruitment despite time constraints, those advertised posts could have been cancelled and considered as first charge for the 12 Five Year Plan. The university could have received less numbers of posts for non-teaching in future. This could have been loss of employment opportunity for the people of Arunachal.

It is matter of pride for University that UGC, New Delhi has accepted to renew the Centre for Excellence in Biodiversity at RGU for another plan. An allocation of Rs. 7 crore has been made for the Centre. Rajiv Gandhi University is one of few universities to receive such grant. Another feather in the cap of university is special grant of Rs. 10 crore announced by the Finance Minister during his budget speech for Research and Development work in the Department of Economics, RGU. Besides, many infrastructure developmental activities are in right track viz faculty buildings, residential quarters, water augmentation system, road connectivity, campus net working, electricity, healthcare centre, student amenities, up gradation of library, etc. Along with the university fraternity, a special credit should be given to new Vice Chancellor whose dedication, selfless and tireless contribution has brought the university in its right track and the development activities rolling. This is a good sign for the university in particular and the state of Arunachal in general. The day is not far when the lone University of state shall become one of the most desired centre of learning and research activities catering to the needs and aspirations of the people in general and students in particular. But to achieve this, cooperation of all stake holders, the university fraternity and society of Arunachal Pradesh is essential.

(Dr. Nani T. Jose is Deputy Registrar, Rajiv Gandhi University)

Mein reviews highway project implementation

ITANAGAR, Apr 11: With the PMO constantly monitoring all flagship programmes of the UPA government, particularly under the PM’s package, Finance Minister Chowna Mein reviewed the physical achievement of highway projects including trans- Arunachal highway in a high level meeting held in Arunachal House, New Delhi on April 7.

During the meeting, the Minister was thoroughly briefed on the current position and progress of state NH projects by highway chief engineer Bora Ete, other senior PWD engineers and agency representatives.

After a patient hearing, the minister instructed the project implementing agencies to speed up construction works. He assured all possible help to the agencies for timely completion of road projects. It may be recalled here that Union DoNER Minister Pawan Singh Ghatowar during his recent visit to the state had a high level meeting with Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, Chowna Mein and other top ranking engineers of the concerned department and took stock of the work progress of various on-going projects in the state. The minister announced to convene a meeting of PWD commissioner, deputy commissioners of the all the districts and other stakeholders to assess the ground realities and chalk out plan to overcome any shortcoming in implementations of the projects.

 

DNGC re-accredited

ITANAGAR, Apr 11:  The Dera Natung Government College has  been re-accredited  for an another period of five years on a four-point scale at  B Grade by National  Assessment  &  Accreditation Council, Bangalore (NAAC).

A three member Peer Team from  National  Assessment  &  Accreditation  Council, Bangalore (NAAC) visited  the college in December, 2011 in connection with the re-accreditation of the college. The team inspected the existing infrastructure and verified all records of the college and  interacted with the Principal, Faculty members, ministerial staff, students and alumni.

DNGC is the first institution of higher education in the state to be assessed twice and re-accredited by NAAC, according to a release by principal of the college Tomar Ete.

 

Rural Press meet CM

ITANAGAR Apr 11: Members of Press Association of Rural Arunachal (PARA) called on Chief Minister Nabum Tuki in his office on April 11 and submitted a memorandum apprising him about the hardships experienced by them while publishing weekly papers from different pockets of the state.

The memorandum demanded placement of government advertisements through department of IPR  with immediate effect to enable the weekly papers to successfully play a significant role in disseminating the policy and programmes of the state as well as the central government.

The Chief Minister is reported to have instructed his office to serve letters to respective Deputy Commissioners, DIPROs and Head of departments for uniform placement of ads through IPR to all weekly papers. However, he urged media fraternity in the state to avoid sensationalism and biased reporting for healthy growth of democracy and true demonstration of freedom of speech.

Earlier, members of PARA also met Director IPR Leki Phungtso on April 9 and apprised him about the present status of weekly papers and discussed in depth about the remedial measures.

He assured to do everything within the parameters of his reach to make sure that the weekly papers get the requisite attention and assistance through government ads.

 

Traffic awareness campaign

ITANAGAR, Apr 11: Parliamentary Secretary, Home, Gadam Ete inaugurated Public Bus Stand cum traffic awareness campaign organized by All Arunachal Public Bus Welfare Association (AAPBWA) at Ganga Market, Itanagar today.

Addressing the gathering, Ete assured to look into the demands submitted by AAPBWA for construction of its office building at Ganga, and  proper development and modernization of every bus stoppage  in Capital Complex right from Banderdewa-Itanagar to Hollongi  for proper parking of vehicles and safety and security of commuters.

All Arunachal Public Transport Federation president Takar Goi informed that there are 37,000 commercial vehicles in the state and the state earns revenue of Rs 3.2 crores annually from the commercial vehicles. He advised the bus drivers to follow traffic rules to avoid road accident.

Superintendent of Police (Traffic Cell) Apang Tamut also advised the drivers to follow traffic rules and regulations.

Er. Gyamar Tachung, Deputy Director cum Member Secretary, DUDA also spoke on the occasion and assured to extend necessary help to the organization.

 

Banking awareness programme held

ITANAGAR, Apr 11: A banking awareness programme was conducted by officials from office of Banking Ombudsman for north eastern states, Reserve Bank of India, Guwahati in collaboration with Orchid Foundation Guwahati and Society for Indigenous Development, Pasighat at Rajiv Gandhi University here today.

During the campaign, awareness on ‘Banking Ombudsman Scheme, Grievance Redressal Mechanism for Bank Customers, Detection of Fake Currency Notes, Fraudulent Non-Banking Companies and Fraudulent SMS and E-mails including ATM were highlighted by the resource persons.

Addressing the gathering, Banking Ombudsman for North Eastern State BB Sangma emphasized on the importance of good customer service of banks and safe banking.

He also elaborated on the role of office of the Banking Ombudsman in resolving the grievances relating to deficiency of customer service of banks.

Reserve Bank of India, Guwahati Deputy General Manager A K Kureel advised the public not to fall into the trap laid by unscrupulous persons offering rewards of fictitious lottery schemes and not to be lured by schemes of various non banking financial companies offering very high returns on their investments.

Reserve Bank of India, Guwahati Treasurer BK Pegu and Orchid Foundation, Guwahati President Dr. Neelanjan Konwar also spoke on the occasion.

 

School management development committee training

ITANAGAR, Apr 11: District Mission RMSA, West Siang District conducted a two days school management development committee (SMDC) training at government higher secondary school, Aalo on April 10 and 11.

On the occasion, District Programme Coordinator, RMSA Liter Bagra Doye highlighted the role of SMDC and objectives of centrally sponsored schemes, namely, Rastriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), National Incentives to Girls Education, Inclusive Education for persons with disability, ICT and Girls hostel and model school schemes.

Aalo GHSS Principal B Palon, Headmaster GSS Pessing Eto Ete and DAEO M Tato also spoke on the occasion.

Among others, EAC T Loya, teachers, Panchayat leaders, representatives of NGOs participated in the programme.

 

Taipodia  calls for early creation of Lower Siang

ITANAGAR, Apr 11: Former Minister Kardu Taipodia today urged  Parliamentary,  secretary, Home, Gadam Ete to impress upon the state Govt  for early creation of Lower Siang district with Lakabali and Nari-Koyu constituencies.

In a letter to Ete, Taipodia said that proposal for creation of a new district was made during 1994-95.  In fact, a committee was also formed with the representatives from Likabali and Nari Koyu segments to pursue the proposal with the state Govt, Taipodia said.

He further said that he had approached the then DCs of both East Siang and West Siang districts for creation of the new district with Likabali and Nari-Koyu segment, particularly to accelerate development activities in Likabali area with an effective administration and to harness the potentials of both the constituencies.

Taipodia urged the Parliamentary secretary to pursue the matter with the CM and stressed on a cabinet meeting within April to take a final decision on creation of Lower Siang district.

 

Bandhs in protest of public hearing

ITANAGAR, Apr 11:  Adi Students’ Union (AdiSU), in a special meeting at Pasighat today unanimously decided to protest the proposed Public Hearing on 2700 MW Lower Siang Hydel Project on April 17, 18 and 20 by observing 12-hour bandhs at Katan circle of Upper Siang, Kebang circle of East Siang and Aalo of West Siang on April 17, 18 and 20 respectively.

 

Peaceful rally to protest Malini Mela incident

ITANAGAR, Apr 11: A peaceful rally was held today at Likabali in protest against the recent demolition of multipurpose pandal at Malini Mela Ground, Likabali.

A memorandum was submitted to SDO, Likabali for immediate arrest of Dhemaji ADC,  U K Boruah and his team for encroaching Arunachal territory and demolishing the structures in Malini ground, Likabali Welfare Society (LWS) said in a release.

A case also was filed at Likabali Police Station by the Indigenous Faith Society Likabali (DPWS) against the erring Assam officials, LWS said

The public of Likabali are still in grief and awaiting the arrival of a high level official team from the state govt. to assess the properties lost and provide moral support, the release added.

 

ABK demands arrest of attacker

ITANAGAR, Apr 11: Adi Baane Kebang (ABK) and its youth wing condemned the inhuman attack on  law student Haku Tatak in between Itanagar and Naharlagun recently.

Both ABK and ABKYW appealed to the state government to constitute an enquiry committee to investigate  the matter.

Demanding immediate arrest and exemplary punishment to the culprit, the Kebang said that any delay in nabbing the culprit would dishearten the citizens of the state. It further appealed to the state government to provide financial assistance to Tatak at the earliest.

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Take a stand before it’s too late

Dear Editor,

The repeated Chinese claim over Arunachal Pradesh was not enough that now our own countrymen are trying to seize our land. Assam administration has proved that they are not anymore friendlier to us than the Chinese Govt. But they are not the only ones to be blamed.

Our State govt. has been too passive and ignorant about the boundary disputes since decades. Had the Arunachal govt. realized earlier that “good fences make good neighbours” and had taken a stand, today things would have been different.

The recent act of Assam administration at Malinithan, Likabali is highly condemnable. I appeal all students’ organization to take a stand before all of Likabali is gone.

Yours,

Bido Sora,

President,

Arunachal Pradesh Students' Welfare Association

BHU, Varanasi

 

 

The Forum deserves accolade

Dear Editor,

I would like to express my opinion regarding the grievances of the Upper Subansiri District Intellectual Forum (USDIF) on financial mismanagement by PWD Dumporijo EE while floating the tender for upgradation of road from Subansiri bridge point to Segi (circle headquarters).

Indeed the Forum represented the grievances of the people of Gusar circle in particular and Upper Subansiri district as a whole who are not aware of   the DoNER fund for upgradation of road and inept financial management by the EE.

It is shocking to learn that the full amount of the fund received from the Centre has not been released by concerned authority of the state and a hefty amount has been kept aside for the reason best known to authorities. The local people have come to know this development only for the Forum who raised the issue in public domain through media.

The Forum really deserves accolade from the people of Upper Subansiri district for its powerful exposure on arbitrary decision of an executive engineer regarding utilization of the Central fund. Hope, our enlightened youth would work as torchbearer and raise voice against corrupt practices along with  some good leaders who are eager to see Arunachal as economically developed state.

Yours,

N Murtem

Daporijo

 

 

Politically motivated or for the people?

Dear Editor,

I would like to share my views regarding Hydro Powers at Tawang which is being opposed by some people.

It’s a fact that Save Mon Committee, an NGO based in Tawang is leading the movement with mass participation of the common people.

However, I have a question for them.  Where was the NGO when the MoAs for the projects were signed with GoAP?

Why the issues were not raised before the demise of Late Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu? I know that  the points raised by the NGO is genuine but for development we must have guts to sacrifice.

As Tawang is known as the peace loving district and it is on the path of development, such issues will take back the district 100 years back as compared to other districts.

So I urge the SMC not to play with the emotions of the common mass by bringing such issues where the common mass gains nothing. I think no one will compromise with the development and it is a must.

It will be very much helpful if they fight for the compensation to the affected people of the projects.

I appeal to the people to judge for themselves before joining the movement, whether it is really for the people or politically motivated.

Are we set to witness development or will it pave way for a new political era?

Yours,

Citizen,

Tawang

 

 

Listen to the grievances of the foothills

Dear Editor,

I would like to put forth the grievances of the local people of Lilkabali area. The residents of this area have always maintained a cordial relationship with the people of Assam, but the untoward incident of 5th April  morning is a clear sign of future's vulnerability with its neighbouring state. The unjust actions have hurt the sentiments of the locals and fear and insecurity has crept in among them.

What further grievance one could have living in torment in its own land?

The officials of Assam, without an iota of hesitation has rampantly destroyed the structures of Malini Mela celebrations.

This is a tight and open slap on the face of higher authorities and government of Arunachal Pradesh.

They haven't bothered to talk amicably with the officials of our state. I must say they have this guts and attitude towards our land and people due to the lackadaisical behavior towards the foothills area by our own Government which makes lofty promises in times of elections but soon fades away.

As far as I know the boundary problem concerns not only this area but also some other part of our state, and if the same attitude is maintained by our Government then I think there is going to be a greater chaos in every boundary disputed area in the coming days.

I feel that the younger generations should come forward and stand united.

It is noteworthy that the team of AAPSU has visited Likabali and has shown grave concern over the matter and I hope that they would extend their helping hand in times to come.

There is an old saying 'prevention is better than cure', and it is a genuine appeal, primarily to our local MLA, student bodies, youths, intellectuals and others to wake up, stand for the cause before  it’s too late.  Save our land from the clutches of the neighboring state, or else we will have to live a nomadic life in future in constant fear!!!

Yours,

Sempey Taipodia

Rajiv Gandhi University,

Rono Hills

 

 

Better late than never

Dear Editor,

This is in response to the article written by Lobsang Droma on April 7th where she expressed unhappiness towards the agitation of the Lamas.

My article is not meant to please the member of Save Mon Committee (SMC), neither it is meant to cultivate a sense of hatred toward me. But some doubts compel me to get answer.

Yes, you have rightly mentioned that Lamas took long time to agitate. May be they were waiting for educated to come but no one came out. In spite of little knowledge they believe “better late than never".  

The members of SMC are meant to protect the environment that's why they took to the street with an intent to protect Tawang.

You may be aware of that there are many organizations , unions and so on, it is hard to get one who protest and achieve its goal.

I also really appreciate the Environment Protection Society (EPS).  When Tawang Monastery faced dangers of landslide, they came out and planted trees. However, I believe saving trees are more important than planting trees.

Yours,

Lobsang, Itanagar   

 

 

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

Malaria moving fast into new territory

A pair of studies showed how the disease is moving fast into new territory and identified a region of the parasite’s genome that may be responsible for mutating in order to survive.

Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease commonly caused by a parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, that kills up to 1.2 million people a year, according to 2010 estimates.

Malaria that was resistant to treatment with the current standard therapy, artemisinin, was confirmed in Cambodia in 2006 and has since surged 800 kilometers westward to the Thailand-Burma border.

In western Cambodia, 42 per cent of malaria cases were resistant between 2007 and 2010, indicating that the Thailand-Burma region was swiftly catching up to Cambodia’s rates.

They found seven genes that may be responsible for making the parasite resistant to drugs, and which may explain up to 35 per cent of the growing resistance in Southeast Asia.

Though a new anti-malaria drug is not expected to appear on the world market before the next decade is up, the health agencies must chalk out strategies  to prevent spread of malaria disease.