The Arunachal Times - Archives

‘Declare Himalayan region a global heritage site’

ITANAGAR, Nov 30: The two-day state-level seminar on ‘food security and right to food’ which concluded here yesterday called upon both the state and Central Govts to consider all aspects of climate change while formulating the development plan and policy for the state and the country as a whole.

In an open letter to the Prime Minister and chief minister of the state, the seminar demanded declaration of the Himalayan region as Global Heritage site and Eco-Sensitive Zone and observed that while the impacts of climate change on the Himalayan ecosystems like accelerated glacial melt and distorted rainfall patterns have been studied in depth, preparation to tackle these impacts, both at the national and state levels are seem lack vision and are generally based upon the same paradigm of unsustainable development that has brought this world to the current state of crisis.

The seminar was of the view that the development process and policy of the Arunachal Pradesh don’t consider this aspect of climate change seriously. The issues related to climate change and critically important Himalayan ecosystems need unique solutions, the letter said.

Thousands of large and small hydropower project being promoted in the Himalayan region would also create impact on climate change, the letter said adding while the reservoir type projects contribute to climate change through deforestation and methane emission, the run of the river projects result in raising ambient temperatures (and loss of moisture-in-the-air needed by plants), due to drying up of river beds for long stretches.

Advocating for reparation of ecological disaster, depletion of forest cover, the letter said displacement loss of livelihoods, loss of common property resources which has been taken up for development from communities be paid to local communities.

It further said that scaling-up of so-called run of the river projects, with consequent dams and large & long tunnels running under whole villages, forests and pastures, are causing destruction of homes, habitats and life support systems, draining off precious ground water and increased risks of earthquake damages. The continuation of purely commercial approach to forestry at the cost of people's livelihood concerns has resulted in increased incidences of forest fires and failed plantations, including compensatory afforestation. This year Himalayan states have witnessed thousands of incidents of forest fires which have affected more than 50,000 hectares of forests this summer, causing a loss to livelihoods and aggravating increasing temperatures.

The current rate of exploitation of the Himalayan resources is unsustainable as the exploitation levels have reached a saturation point, it added.

There is an urgent need of studying in detail the cumulative impact of the current industrial development and climate change on the local ecosystems, the peoples' traditional livelihoods, their health and local climatic conditions. The future long term adaptation strategy should be determined through public consultation only after the results of such studies are obtained, the seminar observed.

All efforts must be made to promote community control and management of natural and new forests through user group level institutions that are based on democracy and social-economic equity.

Resource persons from Arunachal Citizens Rights Bamang Tago, Ravindranath of River Basin Friends, Assam, Manipur Human Rights Law Networks member Rakesh Meihbonbam, women activists Jaya Joram took part in the seminar organized by Human Rights Law Network (HRLN), Itanagar chapter.

Villagers blessed with medical sub-centres

ROING, Nov 30: Two Medical Sub-Centres were inaugurated at Rukmo and Abali Village of Lower Dibang Valley District today.

Talem Tapok, State Mission Director, National Rural Health Mission(NRHM) inaugurated the Sub-Centre at Rukmo village, the south-eastern most village of Lower Dibang Valley District located at around 22 km from the district headquarter, Roing. While other sub-centre at Abali village was inaugurated by Tajum Basar, Director of Health Services.

Both Dr T Basar and Talom Tapok expressed satisfaction over the quality work in constructing the sub centres in a public meeting held at Abali. They exhorted the executing agency and the contractor to carry the same spirit of dedication and sincerity for the welfare of the people. Terming it as the public property, they appealed the people to take care and maintain the infrastructure and make it to grow as PHC in near future to serve the people of the area.

Dr Basar also appealed the people to make themselves aware of dreaded diseases like AIDS and to keep themselves hygienic and clean to prevent spread of various contagious diseases. He further assured to post health assistant to each Sub-Centre soon as demanded by the public of the two villages.

Y W Ringu, DC Roing informing that Primary Health Centre of Iduli village is temporarily running in the Girls’ Hostel of Middle School, Iduli which is creating an imbroglio for the administration as the same is wanted back by the education department.

The DC has requested the visiting dignitaries from the state capital to sanction and allocate fund for the construction of a separate building for said PHC.

Citing shortage of doctors in the district as a single doctor has been looking after two PHCs she further requested them to post sufficient doctors in the district and also the man power to handle the various modern medical equipments lying unused in the district hospital.

Earlier, Angite Menjo, ZPM Iduli Anchal Block has submitted a memorandum for creation and posting of health assistants, chowkidhar cum sweeper to each sub-centre and also for provision of fund for construction of security fencing around the centres.

It is worth mentioning here that Chupuru Tayu, Gaon Burih has donated the land for construction of Sub-Centre at Rukmo and Japani Meto has donated the land for Abali Sub-Centre.

The dignitaries also visited the Girls Hostel turned PHC at Iduli village for finding solution to the administration imbroglio. The visiting dignitaries were accompanied by M. Pertin, EAC, T. Tatak, PD DRDA, EE RWD, Dr M Basar, DRCHO and other Medical Officers of District Hospital and Panchayat Leaders of Iduli Anchal Block.

The sub-centres of semi-RCC type were constructed at a cost of Rs 9 lakhs each under NRHM and executed by the DRDA Roing. DMO Dr Atlok Yirang informed that the buildings were constructed as per the NRHM specification with four rooms consisting of an OPD room, examination room, Labour room attached with ANM’s quarters with toilet and bathroom provisions. One ANM staff were also posted to each Sub-Centre to look after them. DIPRO

AEKSU sets development agenda, draws Govt’s attention

ITANAGAR, Nov 30: All East Kameng Students Union (AEKSU) has come out with the set of development agenda for the area. In this regard recently they submitted memoranda to the deputy commissioner of district and requested him to take certain corrective measures for the development of area. Some of the major issues highlighted by them include repair and restoration of 30 mw mini hydel project at Pakke-Kessang, equal distribution of PDS commodities, proper deployment of government officers in their place of postings and providing solar light facilities to remote schools and villages.

AEKSU urged authorities to immediately repair 30 mega watt mini hydel power project situated at Pakke Kessang, which has not been properly functioning since it came into existence in 2001-02. The constant failure of this power plant has made life miserable for the people of area specially student community.

Union also asked administrations to keep an eye on those government officers who instead of their place of posting in rural areas are often seen camping in district headquarter. They alleged that absence of these officers hamper developmental work in rural areas.

Union further claimed that Public distribution system has totally failed in the district. Poor and needy public are not able to receive essential commodities under PDS as most of supplies items are sold out at district headquarter by fair price shop owners, alleged AEKSU. It also believed that perennial problem of power can be solved by using solar energy in the district. AEKSU demanded that remote villages and school institutions should be covered by solar light. Union also requested authorities to post junior and senior teachers in all the higher secondary school of the district.

Panggeng, Kaso visit Ganga lake

NAHARLAGUN, Nov 30: Parliamentary Secretary, Fisheries, Law and Justice, J K Panggeng and local MLA Techi Kaso visited Ganga lake here today to asses the situation of the lake and interacted with the officers of fishery department led by director Tage Moda.

Describing the Ganga lake as one of the most tourists’ attraction centres in the state, Panggeng during interaction urged upon the entrusted departments such as fishery, tourism and forest to work in unison and make the lake a tourist hub which would also generate revenue for the state. Plantation, cleanliness in the periphery of the lake are concerned of the departments, he added.

He also assured the officers that he would convene a join meeting of three departments along with district administration to improve the lake.

Stressing on the proper maintenance of the lake by the departments concerned MLA Techi Kaso called upon the officers concerned to protect and preserve the lake with utmost care to attract more visitors. Kaso, however, expressed fear that one day this famous lake will lose its identity due to rapid climate change following the rampant destruction of forest and tree felling for jhum cultivation. He stressed on creating awareness among the local cultivators on environment protection and assured to cooperate with Panggeng in his efforts to make the lake more attractive.

Earlier, Fishery Directors Tage Moda apprised the problems being faced by the department especially regarding improvement of the lake. DIPR

3 houses gutted, 1 seriously injured

ITANAGAR, Nov 30: Three houses including properties were completely gutted and numbers of granaries partially damaged in a fire accident at Kadai Yomgam village, Yomcha Circle, West Siang District on November 28 last.

One Minga Yomgam was seriously injured in the fire accident and was admitted at District Hospital Aalo.

All Yomgam Youth Association (AYYA) appealed the concerned authority to immediate release of compensation and relief materials to the fire victims.

Meanwhile, the association mourned the sudden demise of Yager Yomgam, who died at Kadai village on November 28.

She is survived by her husband, 4 sons and a daughter.

It prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and extended its condolence to the bereaved family members. Her untimely demise is great lost to the Yomgam society.

Society demands compensation

ITANAGAR, Nov 30: G4 Welfare Society condemned the miss-dropping of ration items by IAF Helicopter at Chambang on November 23 last.

It appealed the Minister Civil Supply, Director Civil Supply, Station Manager and Superintendent, India Air Force, Ziro to compensate the injured persons and take immediate action against the flying officers of the AIF Helicopter.

Annual Eastern Arunachal Youth Festival ’09

ITANAGAR, Nov 30: Arunachal Pradesh Eastern Parliamentary Democratic Youth Front’s central executive meeting was held at Itanagar under the chairmanship of Mongol Yomso today.

The meeting resolved to observe its foundation day on February 26 and also to organize the first ever Annual Eastern Arunachal Youth Festival on May 25 at Pasighat, East Siang District.

Youths from Tirap, Changlang, Anjaw, Lohit, Dibang Valley, Lower Dibang Valley, East Siang and Upper Siang Districts will attend the events to promote peace and brotherhood, unity and integrity, progress and prosperity of the region.

Meanwhile, APEPDYF President Yomso called upon the youth to bring a change in socio-economic and political development and dedicate towards building a Model Arunachal.

The Front further, expressed hope that the new government would work for the all round development of the state.

Training on Packaging for exports

ITANAGAR, Nov 30: Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises is organizing three days training programme on ‘packaging for exports’ for unemployed educated youth and entrepreneurs at Branch MSME, Itanagar from December 15-17.

25 AR conducts national integration tour for students

CHANGLANG, Nov 30: A National Integration Tour is being conducted by 25 Assam Rifles under DAH DIVISION for the School Children of remote areas of Changlang District to commemorate 175 Years of Glorious Service by the AR to the nation.

30 school children along with four teachers and some personnel from 25 AR under Capt PS Poswal is heading to Delhi under the tour. The children will visit all the historic monuments including the Taj Mahal and Rashtrapati Bhavan. On their way back home, team will also visit the Governor House in Guwahati.

Commander 25 Sect AR, Brigadier JS Negi, VSM flagged off the tour at Margherita COB of 25 AR in presence of the parents. He said Assam Rifles is always committed towards the upliftment of the people of North East, and especially those who are from far remote areas. He emphasized that such tours for the children from remote areas help open their minds towards the rich heritage of our country and brings the people of the regions closer to National mainstream. DIPRO

Demands of PHED workers

ITANAGAR, Nov 30: All Arunachal Pradesh Public Health Engineering and Water Supply Departments Workers Union (AAPPHE&WSDWU) in a letter to Chief Minister highlighting their grievances, appealed for maintenance of Roster in the appointment process according to 80:20 between APST and Non APST and maintain the central service rules, cancellation of appointments during implementation of model code of conduct in the last assembly election, implementation of golden handshake policy under voluntary retirement scheme for old age employees and promotion of service according to eligibility and qualification of working employees time to time.

The union, threaten to launch democratic movement, if their demands were not fulfilled within 45 days.

AAPSU lauded

ITANAGAR, Nov.30: Mishmi Student Union has thanked Arunachal Pradesh Student Union President Takam Tatung for highlighting border issue with China at national level. In a release issued they believe that under his leadership voice of Arunachal Pradesh will be heard loud and clear in the national arena.

ATM in East Kameng soon

SEPPA, Nov 30: The transaction of money would be now bit easier for the people of East Kameng district as the ATM is soon to be operational at Seppa.

SBI Branch Manager, Raju Mandal informed that the machine would be operational from last week of January next. The construction of the ATM apartment has almost been over with only shutter and the machine require to be fixed. The installation of ATM is the need of the hour especially in Seppa where no other reputed bank operating in tandem with SBI to cater to the ardent need of the people. Besides, the bank would lessen the burden of the bank staff during the salary time and the hectic month like March, he said. The manager further informed that the facilities like re-charging of mobile top up and the deposition of life insurance premium shall also be available in the ATM.

Meanwhile East Kameng Deputy Commissioner, Pige Ligu said that the ATM would be of immense help to the people particularly the Govt. official. DIPRO

MLA assures to look into people’s problems

TAWANG, Nov 30: Notwithstanding the cold of Sela Pass, the people of Tawang and Lumla today gave a warm reception to the newly elected Lumla MLA, Jambey Tashi in his home constituency. He was accompanied by Sangey Norbu, ZPM, Lumla and Lobsang Dawa, Chief Organizer, Seva Dal. Jambey Tashi also been appointed as the Chairman State Medicinal Plants Board.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, said assured do best to cater to the requirements of the people of Lumla and the district. He also expressed his confidence in the Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu by saying that, “the sate is progressing under his leadership and under his guidance we will go further ahead in terms of development”.

Sangey Norbu and Lobsang Dawa said the people of Lumla have great expectations from the new MLA and have firm believe that he will make Lumla a more developed and prosperous area . DIPRO

Wakro Children’s Mela

WAKRO, Nov 30: A Children’s Mela -- the first of its kind in the Wakro circle was organized jointly by VT-AWIC Youth Library Network, Lohit and the Anu Shiksha Seva Trust (ASSET) with the active support of the 26, Maratha Light Infantry.

Altogether class-V-VIII student teams from 11 schools of Wakro Circle participated. The mela was aimed to promote reading habit and discover sports talent among the youth of Wakro circle.

A special feature of the Mela was a photo exhibition by ASSET on the theme “Army cares for the girls child.” Sujata Chopra, gender coordinator of Lohit district who represented the DDSE Tezu appreciated the impressive photo and food stall by the KGBV girls put under the program “earn while you learn”.

The Vineeta Sports Meet had more than 70 sports enthusiasts run the 5 Km Mini-Marathon conducted for boys and girls. Ashima Dellang of KGBV Wakro won the Dolly Trophy for the girl’s mini-marathon, while Makheso Mam of the Govt. Sec. School, Wakro bagged the Maki Darang Trophy for boy’s mini marathon. Oying Apum, Additional Sessions Judge, Namsai and Col. Harinder Chouhan of the 26 MLI gave away girls’ and boys’ marathon trophy respectively. Maj. M. D. Muthappa, Adjutant 26 MLI gave away the medals for various other sports events.

Crash course for APPSCC exam aspirants

ITANAGAR, Nov 30: Tayek Talom, Principal, Jawaharlal Nehru College, Pasighat has inaugurated a eight-day crash course on General Studies for the ensuing APPSCC preliminary examination 2009-2010 today. The course is being organised by the Career Guidance and Counselling Cell, J.N College, Pasighat.

The Principal announced a cash prize of Rs two thousand for participant who qualifies in the preliminary examination. The Principal also announced free internet access for all the participants at the centre.

The crash course has been specially designed keeping in mind the short time before the examination. The course accords special emphasis on History, Political Science, Economics and the Sciences.

Awareness cum training prog

CHANGLANG, Nov 30: The Changlang District Administration organized an awareness cum training programme on Chess game for the chess loving students of Changlang district.

Dobin Doke, President, Arunachal Pradesh Chess Association and Santosh Kumar Singh, Secretary, Chess Association of Digboi who were resource persons imparted training to the total number of 65 students attending the training. The trainees were taught the preliminary moves as notations with certain basic tips for effective play.

L Borang, incharge Deputy Commissioner, C Simai, DFO, other departmental heads were also present on the occasion.

Earlier Dorjee Khandu, incharge Changlang District Sports Officer informed that learning Chess may be a good help for the students as it calls for keen and alert mind and concentration of highest quality. It requires intellect and ability to concentrate. DIPRO in-charge

Art of Living workshop

ITANAGAR, Nov 30: A six-day long Art of Living workshop will be held from Tuesday at Kali Mandir, E Sector, Naharlagun.

Christened ‘Health Through Breath’, the centrepiece of the Art of Living course is the Sudarshan Kriya, an innovative breathing technique designed by His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The benefits of the workshop include better physical health, freedom from diseases such as diabetes, high BP, heart problems, asthma, headache, etc, improved sleep, freedom from depression and anxiety, control over anger and other negative emotions and better personal relationships.

World AIDS Day

ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh Sate AIDS Control Society will celebrate World AIDS Day at Government Higher Secondary School, Itanagar on December 1.

CM to inaugurate MRI unit in RKMH

ITANAGAR: Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu has consented to inaugurate the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Hemo-Dialysis Unit at RK Mission, Hospital Itanagar on December 6.

Minister Health and Family Welfare Tanga Byaling will inaugurate Bio-Chemistry Auto Analyzer and Finance Minister Setong Sena would inaugurate the Computerized Radiography System.

NREGA awareness prog

ITANAGAR: The Rural People Development Council(RPDC), Namsai had successfully conducted an awareness training programme for gram panchayats on National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) recently at Tawang, West Kameng and East Kameng districts.

Nyokum Yullo

ITANAGAR: Nyokum Lapang Committee member have selected Joram Dopum as chairman and Khyoda Tanik as general secretary for the Nyokum Yullo celebration 2010.