December -  02

• Tuki prioritizes preservation of traditional culture and rituals
• Getting to Zero-- zero new infection, zero discrimination
• Badhte Kadam for India’s cause
• “Empowering communities for shaping their future”
• Rs 139 cr for police modernisation in Tirap & Changlang
• Justice Sarma takes over AP Redressal Commission
• Centenary celebration of Anglo-Abor war 1911
• Awareness progs on record keeping, direct bank linkage and HIV/AIDS end
• Lohit River Poetry
• Jairampur emerge winner
• Rural sports meets under PYKKA
• Decomposed body of taxi driver found
• WVI for peace and development
• AR conducts medical camp at Chasa
• DDSE makes unannounced visit

Tuki prioritizes preservation of traditional culture and rituals

Silver Jubilee of Donyi-Polo Yelam Kebang

Prafulla Kaman

ITANAGAR, Dec 1: Chief Minister Nabam Tuki today prioritized preservation of traditional culture and religious rituals of ethnic tribal of the state and laid stress on peace for achieving the developmental activities.

Attending the Silver Jubilee Celebration (Murkong Biirik Diinam) of Donyi-Polo Yelam Kebang (DPYK) at Pasighat Central Ganggiing, Tuki said that his government is putting priority on preservation of the ethnic language and cultures in the state.

“Our government is all set to preserve the traditional cultures and religious rituals of the ethnic tribals living in the state. We shall put best efforts to set up cultural centres at every nook and corner of the state in order to exchange culture related information.

The traditional cultures, which we have been observing should be recorded especially for the next generations”, Tuki said.

Praising the DPYK for preserving and propagating the indigenous faith and the tradition of priests, the Chief Minister congratulated the Kebang for completing 25 years of institutionalization of the Donyi-Polo faith.

In this direction, he said every village and town of the state should have a cultural centre, for which he assured assistance from the government. He also encouraged people to emerge as cultural leaders in the line of Late Talom Rukbo, Golgi Bote, who founded the DPYK that is working relentlessly to preserve and propagate the indigenous faith and culture of the Adis.

Addressing the huge gathering, he said the first month of his government has been an eventful one and as morning shows the day, he expressed hope that future of the state under the present regime would be a fruitful one.

“The cooperation I have received from my colleagues and the people has been tremendous in the past one month. I assure you, together we will bring about a new Arunachal in the coming years,” Tuki declared. Responding to an appeal for allotting a plot of land surrounding the Central Gangging of Pasighat, Tuki requested DPYK to liaise with the district administration in this regard. He also appealed to the East Siang district administration to initiate the process and complete the formalities immediately for further action by the government. As a gesture of encouragement and support he announced a sanction of Rs 2 crore for construction of a Donyi-Polo community hall.

To another memorandum for making the Pasighat Jawaharlal Nehru College (JNC), the oldest in the state, into a state university, Tuki assured to place the proposal in the first Cabinet meeting shortly for approval.

While highlighting priorities of his government, Tuki appreciated Education Minister Bosiram Siram for his commendable efforts in streamlining the education sector. He reiterated that the crisis for teachers’ quarters in remote areas would be resolved sooner than later.

Jagdev Ramurav, President Akhil Bharatiya Vanwasi Kalyan Ashram (ABVKA), and noted writer Y D Thongchi attended the function as well.

On the occasion, DPYK felicitated and honoured those, most posthumously, who contributed for development of and propagation of Donyi Polo faith. The other highlights of the day were release of book ‘Socio-cultural and Spiritual Traditions of Arunachal Pradesh’ authored by renowned writer Kaling Borang and a mega dance performance by students.

Earlier in the morning, Tuki laid the foundation stone of JNC-Balek road and inaugurated the Pasighat-Ledum-Tene road constructed by PWD. He requested the department to immediately make estimates for two bridges on the Pasighat-Ledum-Tene road and submit to the government.

“The bridges should be completed before the road wears out,” he added jovially with a serious note. (With inputs from CM Media Cell, DIPRO Pasighat)

 

Getting to Zero-- zero new infection, zero discrimination

World AIDS Day

ITANAGAR, Dec 1: World AIDS Day was observed with the theme “Getting to Zero- zero new infection, zero discrimination” across the state.

School children from various schools in Capital Complex took out rallies in the morning to mark the day.

In Itanagar, students from Kingcup Public School and Aronadoya Govt. Hr. Secondary Schools took out a rally from Aakashdeep complex to Bank tinali which was flagged off by Dr. Riken Rina, Jt. Director (B/S) APSACS.

In Naharlagun, students, NCC, Scouts & Guides from Govt. Hr. Sec. School, Konkarnallah and Govt. Hr. Sec. School, Polo Colony took out rallies from their respective schools to Imdad Bhavan, Naharlagun.

In Doimukh also, a rally was taken out by the school students of Govt. Hr. Secondary School which was followed by a seminar organized in the school to mark the day.

In the state capital, Nido Pavitra, Parliamentary Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, attended a  programme at Naharlagun where an open air rock concert was performed by ‘Symmetry Clan’ the Redribbon Superstars of Arunachal Pradesh.

Stressing on the importance of this year’s World AIDS Day theme, Pavitra said that the theme rightly is “Getting to Zero,” which essentially means Zero New HIV Infections, Zero Discrimination and Zero AIDS Related Deaths.

While appreciating the role of APSACS in the control of HIV in the state, he said that the linkages of NGO activities under TI programme with ICTC is crucial in HIV programme.

Appreciating Yumrin Nokpa, the General Secretary of Arunachal Network of Positive People, for declaring his status to public, the Parliamentary Secretary said that more people with HIV positive should come overground so that HIV/AIDS could be controlled. Forming of Arunachal Network of Positive People in the state is an important mileage for APSACS he added.  Dr. K. Nishing, DHS, said that we should work hard to control the further spread of HIV in the state. He said that the figure of HIV positive cases in the state should be halted where it is now. Role of people like Yumrin Nokpa is very crucial in achieving our target to control HIV,  he added.

Dr. E. Rumi, Project Director, APSACS, in his keynote address, said that out of 175603 persons tested, 184 have been found HIV positive in the state so far. This is matter of concern for us and we all have to join hands in the fight against HIV. He also cautioned people not to discriminate people living with HIV/AIDS.

Nokpa, speaking on the occasion asked the students participants to remember three messages-- avoid drugs, avoid alcohol, and use condoms.

Sharing his testimony, Yumrin said that he is HIV positive not by choice. In spite of several challenges, he declared his status to dedicate his life for the cause of HIV/AIDS awareness in Arunachal Pradesh.

The Symmetry Clan, which is the winner of MMC Redribbon Superstars, enthralled the jam-packed audience with its rock numbers in the programme. The band belted out 7 numbers much to the liking of the youth audience.

At Tezu, District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit in collaboration with Youth (NYK), TI-NGO, RRC IGG College, Youths of Tezu Baptist Church, Christian Revival Church, Public, Evangelical Union, Tezu, Officers and Staffs of DMO Office and District Hospital Tezu observed World AIDS Day.

Lohit Deputy Commissioner RK Sharma, in his address, stressed on prevention of HIV/AIDS transmission.He advised the participants to avoid pre-marital sex and drug abuse, especially among the youths, and to remain faithful to one’s sexual partner. He also suggested the need of sex education.

He stated that health personnels should treat people living with HIV/AIDS with dignity like any other patients. HIV patients not only need medical treatment but also needs social care which every one of us should able to provide.

DMO Dr. (Mrs) N. Ninu stressed appealed to all to join hands together to achieve zero HIV new infections in the district. She advised the youths not to indulge in unsafe sexual behaviour and also to maintain abstinence from sexual behaviour till marriage.

Dr. J. Ado DPO, DAPCU made a presentation on HIV/AIDS and STI/RTI .

Earlier, S. Ngadong GB of Tribal Colony flagged of Mass Rally in the morning from the District Hospital Tezu which was  participated by collegians, NGOs, public, youths of (NYK), TBC, CRC, EUs, officers and staff of health department.

Along with the entire country and rest of the world, JNK Public School Itanagar and Government Hr.Sec. Naharlagun, Kankarnala also observed the World AIDS Day today. Hundreds of students took out procession  holding placards and shouting slogans on HIV/AIDS awareness.

To mark the occasion quiz and painting competitions were organized particularly focusing on awareness of HIV/AIDS.

 

Badhte Kadam for India’s cause

Mathilda Behera

NAHARLAGUN, Dec 1: Our teachers directed us to attend the Badhte Kadam awareness campaign of the union social justice & empowerment ministry organized at IGNOU centre here by the National Trust on November 29 last.

I decided to attend it and happy to see Capital Complex deputy commissioner Onit Panyang as well as NE Disability Law unit project officer Emily Dey, Assam SNAC coordinator Baplop Parasor Khound and Arunachal Pradesh SNAC coordinator Rimpee Das besides my student friends from KV No 1, teachers, NGO representatives and government officers.  Very soon I realized the educative value of the programme as it was about helping the differently able to make themselves self dependant and contribute towards nation building.

Shishu Sarathi, a centre for rehabilitation and training for multiple disabilities, is working as a SNAC in Assam since 2006 while the National Trust has appointed its representative in Arunachal Pradesh this year.

I was excited to know more about Shishu Sarathi as a young student as I have equal responsibility to do something in my capacity for India, my motherland.

As I started exchanging views the senior officers were curious about my interest and responded to every question besides extracting information about me.

I learnt about the great initiative taken up by them to create mass awareness about the people with disabilities and their rights, the neglecting attitude towards such people, the importance of supporting people suffering from autism, cerebral palsy, mental retardation and multiple disabilities as they could also become partners of the country’s development.

I had attended the programme at Darbar Hall of Raj Bhawan on 4th August 2010 as a VKV student where former President of India, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam had advised us to dream big, citing the example of his famous book: Wings of Fire. I remember his advise ‘Not dreaming is a crime’, thus I attended the programme to get some idea that could help me dream big.   

Badhte Kadam, I was taught, besides making understand the meaning of disability, aims at facilitating various provisions and facilities of the National Trust (through local level committee –LLC– at district level), create awareness about United Nation Convention for the Rights of People with Disability (UNCRPD) and make assistance of central and state govt. schemes easily available.

It focuses on enabling and empowering persons with developmental disabilities to live independently as much as possible. The National Trust believes in “discoverabilities” (means discovery of our talents and potentiality which brings energy, productivity, harmony and joy). They taught me a new term with far reaching consequences in our life.

A local NGO though initially assigned the responsibility but could not come up to the expectation of the National Trust in discharging the responsibilities while the frequent change of administrative head in the district also contributed to poor performance.

“Persons with disabilities are often oppressed by low expectations and social isolation. At the National Trust it helps to overcome this oppression by creating opportunities to develop, changing social attitude and exploding myths. It is working to create societal inclusion through enabling persons with disabilities to participate in their communities, with full rights, the same as everybody else. The trust sees its role as that of a catalyst, in help transform India into an inclusive society. It realizes that in order to fully achieve inclusion it needs to have multiple partners from all economic sectors” – this was the loudest message I got and thought of disseminating it to the masses through the media so as to help turn the capabilities of differently able people productive.

I would cite the best example of Donyi Polo Mission School for Hearing Impaired, Chimpu, whose students spell magic when they present a cultural item or weave with their tiny fingers. Many of them may be incapable of hearing or talking but their spirit is highly inspiring. The school and its founder deserve salute for nurturing humanity.

Such institutions symbolizing Badhte Kadam should be extended all possible help to grow.

 

“Empowering communities for shaping their future”

Mechuka, Dec 1: The two days training cum- exposure trip for the communities from Yazali and Yachuli circle ended at Dorjeeling village, Mechuka in West Siang on November 29. The exposure trip was organized by Future Generations Arunachal (FGA) for the women groups participating in the project entitled “Identifying Best Practices to Empower Arunachal Families”.

The same program was started at Yazali, in Lower Subansiri and Koyu area in East Sing district in 2008.

The community members from Yazali and Yachuli circles were highly impressed by the volunteer works of the women groups (FGA) of the Mechuka, namely Dorjeeling and Dechingthang women groups improving the nutrition and increasing family income through kitchen gardens and micro-credit programs.

The women groups from the villages around Mechuka during their visit in 2010 to Ziro was inspired by the wet rice cultivation and the promotion of kitchen gardens by Apatani people in Ziro during their visit last. They have adopted some of the techniques as the climatic condition of both the places are almost similar.

The programme aimed at encouraging local people to explore various ways of mobilizing community energy to enable them to participate in the developmental processes and empower them to shape their future.

 

Rs 139 cr for police modernisation in Tirap & Changlang

Itanagar, Dec 1: The Union Home Ministry has sanctioned Rs 139 crore for modernisation of the police in the troubled Tirap and Changlang district in Arunachal Pradesh, chief minister Nabam Tuki said today.

"We are going to recruit 1900 police personnel soon for the district and the process for which will start from this month," Tuki said here.

Tuki, who also hold the Home portfolio, while inaugurating the newly constructed SP office at Yupia near here further informed that the special package, would go a long way in development of the two under-developed districts bordering Myanmar, Nagaland and Assam.

"With the recruitment of 1900 police personnel for the districts, the unemployment problem in the state over the years could be minimized," the chief minister asserted.

Tuki, who is leaving for New Delhi tomorrow on the invitation of Union Home Minister P Chidambaram, will place demands for funds to upgrade the existing police infrastructure and modernization of the forces in the state.

He also assured to provide fund to the Arunachal Police Housing and Welfare Corporation Limited (APHWCL) for construction of residential quarters for the officials from the Special Plan Assistance (SPA) fund. PTI

 

Justice Sarma takes over AP Redressal Commission

ITANAGAR, Dec 1: Justice H. N. Sarma Judge (Rtd) Gauhati High Court has assumed the charges of president of Arunachal Pradesh Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (State Commission) today.

During an interaction with the president, the Controller LM & CA cum Director Consumer Affairs, Gorik Dirchi apprised him about functioning of the State Commission as well as District Forum of the state. He also highlighted the achievements as well as problems being faced by the consumer courts in districts.

Registrar of AP State Commission, BJ Dey, briefed the president about pending cases in the State Commission and the District Forum.  Responding to the briefings and suggestions, the President assured his full cooperation in solving the problems of the Consumer Courts in the state.

 

Centenary celebration of Anglo-Abor war 1911

Taduram Darang

The people of Kebang Circle which falls under East Siang District have decided to celebrate centenary year of the Anglo-Abor (Adi) War 1911, which is also popularly called as Poju Mimak by the local people, w.e.f  December 9, 2011 to commemorate and pay homage to their brave fore-fathers, who had laid down their lives while protecting their homeland.

The Villages of Kebang circles are Kebang, Yemsing, Babuk, Rottung, Kallek, Pangi and Sissen. Some other villages which were part of conglomeration of greater Kebang village like Rengging under Pasighat circle and Mirem village, which were earlier inhabitants of Miising village now abandoned, Ledum and Sido villages under Bilat circle and Korang and Kakki under Koyu circle will also be involved in the celebration. Further, some other villages who were directly or indirectly involved with the Anglo-Abor War 1911 like Pangin, Yeksi, Jorsing, Komsing, Riu will be also involved in the celebration.

BRIEF HISTORY:-  

The year 2011 is an important milestone in the history of Adis. It is the 100th year since the famous Poju Mimak, the 4th and last Anglo-Abor (Adi), took place in 1911. In that historic war, this was the fallout of murder of Mr Noel Williamson, A.P.O, Sadiya, at Komsing village on 31st March 1911, many Adi villages put up a united fight against the much superior Abor Expeditionary Force led by Major General H.Bower of the mighty British Indian Government.  Officially, the "Anglo-Abor War (Adi) 1911-12" began on October 06, 1911 and ended on January 11. 1912. During the war, many gallant fighters of Adi had laid down their lives while defending their mother land and many of their villages were also burnt down by the enemy causing untold miseries to the people of those villages. Kebang Village was the nerve centre of anti-British activities for more than half a century until its downfall in 1911. The Anglo-Abor War, 1911-12 virtually ended with the burning down of Kebang village on 9th December 1911 as it led to the submission of Adis to the Abor Expeditionary Field Force.

Consequent upon the "4th & last Anglo-Abor War (Poju Mimak), 1911 many important political and administrative changes were made in the Dibrugarh Frontier Tract by the Government of British India. General Bower, the Officer Commanding of the Expedition made a suggestion in January 1912 that the frontier should be divided into three sections namely the Western, the Centre and Eastern Sections. The Deputy Commissioner of Lakhimpur A.H W Bentinck also held a similar view that the frontier areas should be separated from Darrang and Lakhimpur Districts of Assam. They seem to have initiated an action which ultimately led to important administrative re-organization and formation of the North-East Frontier Tract thus laying the foundation of emergence of NEFA and then the present Arunachal Pradesh. And it also led to the establishment of Administrative Centre at Pasighat in October 1912 with posting Mr. T.E.Furze. Indian Police, as the first Assistant Political Officer for Administration of Abor (Adi) Hills.

In the wake of the expedition of 1911, Topographical Survey and exploratory tours on an extensive scale in the interiors of Siang valley were undertaken by Civil and Military Officers. General Bower set up his Headquarters at "Dengki" which is at the confluence of Yembung and Siang Rivers from the 10th of December 1911 till Survey and Exploratory expeditions were over. He set out exploratory teams along the both the banks of Siang River. The teams explored up to Singging area of present Upper Siang covering important Villages of Riu, Riga, Geku and Shimong. Different parts of Siang were also simultaneously visited by other British Officers.  Along the course of Yamne River; a party going upstream visited many Padam Villages including Damro. A survey party toured to the village of Dosing, Pareng and Yuying. Captain Dunbar visited Kombo, an important village of the Galos. These tours helped British Government to have a clear knowledge of the Topography and establish a closer contact with Adi tribes.      

The tours undertaken upstream made the British confirm the fact that the Tsangpo River flows into India as Siang River in Arunachal Pradesh and then as Brahmaputra in Assam but not as Irrawadday river of Burma.

Soon after the Abor expedition of 1911 Trade posts, one at Pasighat and another at Rottung were also established. These steps were taken to enable the Tribes living in the interior areas to have a free passage to the trading centers. Police out post at Kobo, Pasighat and Balek were also retained.

Thus the Poju-Mimak, the last Anglo-Abor war, 1911-12 has got much historical, social and economical significant in the history of Arunachal Pradesh. Hence, realizing the historical importance of the War, its Centenary Celebration is being organized under the aegis of ‘Paator Gumin Heritage Preservation and Research Foundation (PGHP&RF)’ Kebang, a voluntary organization, at Kebang (Dengki) at the confluence of Siang and Yembung Rivers, which was the headquarters of Abor Expeditionary Force from 1 O" December 1911 till the end of the war.

The Centenary Celebration is being organized to commemorate the sacrifices made by the unsung heroes of not only of Poju- Mimak 1911 but also those of the Anglo-Abor (Adi) Wars of Bitbor Mimak 1858, Bongal mimak 1859 and Nijom Mimak 1894 because, to us, the sacrifices made by our forefathers are no less important than sacrifices made by others during the freedom struggle in other parts of the country. Other aim of the celebration is to rekindle a sense of patriotism among the people of Arunachal Pradesh as well as to promote tourism in the Siang valley.

War heritage sites

a) EGAR YABGO: - The Egar Yabgo was located in the steep rock cliff in the Egar valley between Garne and Garmeng streams near Rottung village. It is said a fierce battle had taken place at this site on 19th November 1911 between the Adi warriors and forces of the Main Column in which many British sepoys are said to have been killed by heavy discharge stone chutes (Lingkang) as well as arrow shooting by the Adi warriors. Major General Bower, the Officer Commanding, himself was also reported to have been injured in the hand by a flight of arrow while leading the battle to take over the Egar stockade.

The site can be visited by taking a detour through British mule track from Yeene (20th Mile Camp) to Rottung.

b) Kekar-Monying :- A stiff rock cliff between Sireng and Sideng rivers near Babuk Village where the last battle between the British and the Abor (Adi) took place on 41h December 1911 during the Abor Expedition of 1911-12. A very strong stockade was constructed by the Adis at the site which was supposed to be almost impenetrable but was breached by Abor Expeditionary Forces by firing from across Siang River.

(c) Linyo Yipor: - A river bed at the right bank of Siang river at the mouth of Linyo stream where Adi warriors of Kebang village had inflicted heavy casualties on the punitive expedition led by Capt. Lowther when latter's overnight Camp was attacked by the former In the night of March 26  1858 during Bitbor Mimak (Bongar Mimak),

(d) British Inspection Bungalow at Rebing Camp (Kebang):- The Britishers built a log cabin type building (Two Rooms) at Rebing Camp, Kebang. However the flash flood of 11/6/2000 had destroyed the building. Some remnants of the building can still be seen.

(e) Goyiing Liidung: - Goyiing Liidung is a huge stone monolith which is located in Goyiing area near Kebang (Radha) village where the 1st Anglo-Abor (Adi) War had taken place in 1858. The war is popularly called as Bitbor Mimak or Bongar Mimak by the local people. The gunshot marks of the British sepoys can still be seen at Goyiing Liidung. Due to the stiff resistance offered by the warriors of Kebang Village led by Lomkom Darang, the British Punitive Expedition led by Captain Lowther could not reach Kebang Village. The war was supposedly named after Captain H.S Bivar Deputy Commissioner, Lakhimpur District, who himself accompanied the expedition up to Rottung.

(f) Kebang village: - The erstwhile Kebang village was located on picturesque plateau on the hill spur (of about 900 meters) originating from Dirkyong peak and terminating at Yembung river as Aari Monying in the north. It was once the nerve centre of anti-British activities for more than half a century until it was burnt down by the Abor Expeditionary Force on 9!h December 1911. The Dere Liidung, a round rock with a diameter of about one meter, which is believed to be having spiritual power still there at the Dere Giidang (dormitory foreground), the nerve centre of the erstwhile village as testimony to the power that the Kebang village had wielded during its glorious years. One can also have panoramic views of mountains around including Snow-clad Mountains in the far north from site.

OTHER PLACES OF TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:

(e)  Traditional cane hanging bridge: - Traditional hanging bridge across mighty Siang Bridge can still be seen at Sissen village and Pangi village.

(f)Komsing Village: - The place where Noel Willamson, APO Sadiya was assassinated on 31 March 1911 which led to the Abor expedition of 1911. Memorial stone/ Epitaph still exist.

(g) Pangi Village:  The place where Dr.Gregorson was assassinated on 31 s' March 1911 .However, the memorial stone had been washed away by flood.

h) Angling: - The confluences of Yembung and Siang River and Sireng and Siang rivers are famous for angling.

i) Orange Garden: - The place is also famous for its orange gardens.

j) Monggang Ponrung: - Located in the Monggang hill of Kebang, Monggang Ponrung is a vertical limestone cave adorned with numerous stalactites, stalacmites, galleries, caverns, fissures, chimneys of various shapes, sizes and colours and other features typical of limestone caves. And Monggang hill is an ideal place for eco-tourism, adventure tourism and potholing.

h) Dangaria Baba Mandir: Dangaria Baba Mandir is being located at a rock cave near Yembung River.

Name of villages which were burnt down by the British  during their operations in the Anglo - Abor war 1911. (In chronological order)

1. Ledum village: - It was occupied by the Ledum Column led by Colonel J. Fisher on 25th October 1911 but not burnt when the villagers surrendered.

2. Miising village: - (Now abandoned and most of its villagers have shifted to Mirem village) It was burnt on 31st October 1911 by the Ledum Column, (old Miising was burnt in May 1911 by the Lakhimpur Military Police)

3. Sido: It was burnt on 5th November 1911 by the Ledum Column.

4. Korang village: - Burnt by a detachment of two columns of Ledum Column led by Major Lindsay on 8th November 1911)

5. Kakki:-  The village was stormed by Major Lindsay with one hundred rifles of the 2nd Gurkhas after a fierce battle on 10th October 1911.But no record as yet of it having been burnt.

The above villages were attacked by the Ledum Column led' by Colonel J. Fisher to overawe the inhabitants of these villages which were under the influence of Kebang village and keep the Adis busy in the direction of Ledum, thus protecting the flank of the main column and preventing the chances of an inroad into the plains as a part well planned war strategy of Abor Expeditionary Force.)

Rengging village: - Burnt on 7th November 1911 by two Companies of Gurkhas under Main Column.

Rottung village: - Burnt on 20th November 1911 by the Main column led by General Bower.

Kallek village: -  Burnt on 25th November 1911 by a force under Lieutenant-Colonel Murray.

9. Sissen village: - Burnt on 4th December 1.911 by a party of Assam Valley and Surma Valley Light Horse.

10. Babuk village: - Burnt on 4th December 1911 four Companies of 8th Gurkhas under Lieutenant¬Colonel Murray D.S.O. accompanied by Captain Hare, Intelligence Officer

11. Kebang village: - Burn on 9th December 1911 by the Combined Forces of Main and Ledum Columns led by Major-General H. Bower himself. With the burning down of Kebang village the main objective of the Abor Expeditionary Force had been achieved as the organized resistance of Adis against the Force had virtually came to an end on that day.

12. Yemsing village:-Burnt on 13th December 1911 by five Companies of the 8th Gurkhas led by Lieutenant-Colonel Murray.  (The writer is the President of Paator Gumin Heritage and Preservation Foundation; one can contact him on- 9436053027)

 

Awareness progs on record keeping, direct bank linkage and HIV/AIDS end

NACO/APSACS sponsored SIRD training

ITANAGAR, Dec 1: Block level awareness training programme for SHG members on record keeping, direct bank linkage and HIV / AIDS was organized by State Institute of Rural Development Arunachal Pradesh in Lohit district.

These NACO / APSACS sponsored programmes were conducted in each CD block in Lohit covering more than 800 SHG members all over the district. More than 95 per cent of the participants were women. The highest turnout was witnessed in programmes conducted at Namsai and Lekang (Mahadevpur). It also provided an opportunity to interact with one of the largest cluster of working SHGs in a single district.

Rakesh Srivastava, assistant director SIRD coordinated the programmes in all the 5 venues.  These programmes involved inputs on SHG record keeping and direct credit linkage, entry and exit protocol for SHGs. Participants were also briefly informed about relevant salient provisions of upcoming MoRD programme known as National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) which has specific provisions for promotion of SHGs, their clusters and federations, etc. Specific prototypes of SHG records prepared by SIRD Arunachal Pradesh were distributed to the participants which included bye-laws attendance and minutes of meeting, savings and loan register, individual members pass books, etc. Participants were also trained on record keeping in given formats as contained in the prototypes.

It was one the single biggest initiative on mainstreaming HIV / AIDS with normal course of training by SIRD Arunachal Pradesh.

The support from District Aids Prevention and Control Unit (DAPCU) led by Dr. J.Ado from District Hospital Tezu and Arunachal Pali Vidyapeeth, Chongkham, which are project partners in the AIDS Prevention and Control programme in Lohit, enabled better clarification and proper awareness on HIV and AIDS amongst the SHG members.

DRDA Lohit along with ADC Namsai, EAC Wakro, EAC Namsai, EAC Lekang (Mahadevpur) and block officials also facilitated in successful conduction of the programmes.

The participants in all the programmes were all praise for SIRD management and local administration for conducting the training programme, where they were able to learn from audio visual materials and provided an opportunity to interact with bank officials directly in the training programme and also able to clarify their misconceptions regarding STIs, HIV and AIDS. They also requested for repetition of such programmes with value addition covering aspects of marketing management, cluster development, formation of federations, etc in near future.

 

Lohit River Poetry

 

        How much longer the banks of the Lohit will whisper their ageless poetry is a question this generation must answer.

 

Jonathan P. Larson

A master writer once observed that powerful poetry is born along the banks of great rivers. A recent meander up the mountain course of Arunachal’s Lohit, a still pristine, world-class river suggests why.

The Lohit, like great poetry, has many faces. Through much of its course, as though in purdah, it is hidden in the hills, glimpsed only now and then when the angles are right and there is a break in the profusion of banana and rhododendron. But comes the moment, at Parashuram Kund, place of pilgrim cleansing, when it bursts out of its rocky fastness into full view, and there beyond the gorge, unties its tresses that curl and run in unabashed freedom.

In the rains, the Lohit can run with frothy power as it thrashes its way heedless toward the valley floor, drenching in lavish blessing all who venture near. And in the winter, when crowds of devotees throng its banks, it winds a thoughtful, clean and obedient course between companion ridges and snow-crowned peaks, tracing a turquoise thread that takes no notice whatsoever of any boundary, political or human.

By turn tranquil and deep, then churning with impatience, and then again, alive with the thunder of mountain anthems, the Lohit creams its way across rapids, and pirouettes round impossible crags as it races in purity and sunshine toward the distant sea.

But here is the straight-up truth about river poetry. Only people can read its power and its beauty. Only people can sense its enduring worth and life-giving rhythms . And if the truth now be told, the poetry of the Lohit hangs in the balance. How much longer the banks of the Lohit will whisper their ageless poetry is a question this generation must answer. (Jonathan P. Larson, a native of Atlanta, Georgia, USA is a travel writer and he was in Arunachal recently)  

 

Jairampur emerge winner

MIAO, Dec 1: The two-day long block level rural games and sports meet-cum-selection 2011, organised by department of sports Changlang under  Panchayat Yuva Krida Aur Khel Abhiyan concluded here at general ground with the Miao ADC handing over the trophies to the winners.

Athletes from eight Anchal blocks, namely Jairampur, Nampong, Changlang, Diyun, Miao, Bordumsa and Kharsang participated in various disciplines.

Jairampur Anchal Block emerged winner with maximum points and selection of players while Bordumsa and Diyun finished second and third respectively.

Out of the 103 (76 boys and 27 girls) competitors from seven Anchal blocks, 50 players have been selected for the state level meet.

All the selected participants will compete at the forthcoming State Level Rural Sports Meet 2011 to be held  at Itanagar on December 15.

The objectives of the Krida Abhiyan Panchayat Yuva Krida Aur Khel Abhiyan is to trace out sports talent from interior places.

 

Rural sports meets under PYKKA

ITANAGAR, Dec 1: The 4-day district level sports competition  under Panchayat Yuva Krida aur Khel Abhiyaan concluded  at Hayuliang general ground on November 28 last.

Attending the closing ceremony, director of sports and youth affairs DK Dinglow shared his experiences during his playing days with the young athletes of the district.

CK Mein, Superintendent of Police Anjaw, CS Jeinow, DC Anjaw cum Chairman Organising Committee, B Tega Chairperson, Zilla Parishad Anjaw, ADC Hayuliang, ZPMs, Circle Officer Hayuliang, Chairperson Anchal Samiti and Anchal Samiti members of different blocks were also present on the occasion.

Meanwhile, the 3-day Rural Sports meet under Panchayat Yuva Krida aur Khel Abhiyaan (PYKKA) for Doimukh Anchal Samiti Block concluded at Mini Stadium, Rono Ground Doimukh yesterday.

The opening ceremony was attended by Parliamentary Secretary (Planning and Development) Nabam Rebia, who highlighted about the Centre’s ambitious programme for exposing the sports talents of rural areas. While emphasizing the need of games and sports, Rebia suggested the players not to give up their studies in the name of sports.

Tigdo Panchayat emerged overall champions of the sports meet with 29 points. The second place was shared by Doimukh Panchayat and Chiputa Panchayat with 21 points each while the third position went to Rono Panchayat with 19 points.

Papum Pare DDSE Tana Tagu Tara, Doimukh circle officer Pama Bagang, BDO Chagam Dolo, ZPM Tana Bado, Goan Bura and all the PRI members were present on the occasion.

 

Decomposed body of taxi driver found

Correspondent

JAIRAMPUR, Dec 1: A taxi driver identified as Sushil Hajong, who was missing with the vehicle with registration number  No AS 23B 9465 since November 14 last has been found dead, some 6 Km away from Jairampur township at 12 miles  yesterday.

The body was lying some meter away from the highway. The identification of the victim could be made by the black jacket and shoe he was wearing as the face was disfigured beyond recognition.

The  car is still missing.

Reportedly, the last contact the deceased made was on the night of November 14 at 8 pm when he reported to the car owner that he was on the way to Jairampur and was crossing Jagun (Assam) with some passengers and a patient belonging to 10 Miles, which is 12 Km from Jairampur.

Since than his whereabouts has been a mystery and his mobile switched off.

It is a second incident that has transpired on 14 km densely forested Jairampur to Jagun stretch.

Earlier, a three wheeler owner and driver from Jagun (Assam) was butchered to death on the same spot due to some family feud. Someday later the body was discovered with the auto rickshaw parked some meters away from the NH 52.

 

WVI for peace and development

NAHARLAGUN, Dec 1: World Vision India, with the objectives to make aware the public of Ziro-II block, Lower Subansiri district about the significance of peace for development and harmonious co-existence, organized a 3-day long awareness camp with the theme ‘Local Capacities for Peace/ Do No Harm’ from November 29 at Itanagar.

Around 25 participants took part in the programme.

Director of Administrative Training Institute Naharlagun Pema Tshetan while attending the programme called upon the participants to be an agent of peace in the community and State.

He also encouraged the people to be well versed on LCP and said that we need a peaceful coexistence and should spread the same leanings to the fellow friends.

Mikael Pradhan, National Coordinator Kolkata World Vision India and Resource Person for LCP/DNH also highlighted the importance of peace and social harmony.

Simon Ronrang, Information Coordinator who was the facilitator of the program urged the participants to concentrate and learn something from it.  

 

AR conducts medical camp at Chasa

ITANAGAR, Dec 1: A free medical camp was organised by 19 Assam Rifles under the aegis of 25 Sector Assam Rifles at Chasa village of Tirap on November 30.  

While inaugurating medical camp, the Commandant 19 Assam Rifles, Col Prashant Kumar expressed commitment of Assam Rifles for welfare of Tirap in various aspects. He was concerned about the remote and interior villagers, who are unable to avail medical facilities.  

This is a very important step to address the medical requirement of tribal people.  Such actions by security forces will definitely build up confidence and good relations amongst them, he said.

The medical camp headed by Medical Officer and trained paramedical staff of 19 Assam Rifles treated 268 patients suffering from various ailments. Most of the people were found to be suffering from fungal infections, diarrhoeas, respiratory tract infections, common cold, UTI, gastritis, viral fever,  worm infestation etc.

First aid was also provided to few patients with minor cuts, burns and abscess.  

Screenings tests like RMT, typhoid, HIV were carried out on spot by trained staff.  

Apart from providing free medicines, the patients were made aware of repercussion of above diseases and further advised remedial measures to protect themselves from such infectious diseases.

 

DDSE makes unannounced visit

Aalo Dec 1: The DDSE West Siang Tomi Doke made unannounced visits to Govt. Sec. School, Darka, Bagra and Bam on November 26 last.

During the visits, he interacted with Headmasters and students and assessed the shortages of subject teachers, infrastructures etc.

Later at Aalo, he conducted a coordination meeting of all ADEOs, SSA Coordinator/ District Adult Education Officer of respective administrative blocks November 29 last.

There was a detailed interaction between DDSE and all ADEOs relating to academic, infrastructures, shortage of teaching staffs, streamlining of education system in West Siang and ‘no work no pay’ for teachers, who are irregular in duty. Equitable distribution of teaching staff and stay at their respective place of posting came to fore in the interactive session.

The DDSE will also conduct a co-ordination meeting with all headmasters and principals of 12 Govt. Secondary Schools, 10 Govt. Hr. Secondary Schools of West Siang shortly to chalk out shortcomings being faced in different schools.

 

APCU demands arrest of assaulter

ITANAGAR, Dec 1: Arunachal Pradesh Catholic Union (APCU) and the Parish Council members of Itanagar, Naharlagun condemned the assault on Fr. Tom  Karthik SDB, a 75- year- old Parish priest of St. Mary’s Church, Itanagar on Nov 30 at Raktam  colony. The Catholic Community of Itanagar, Naharlagun and APCU have demanded immediate arrest of Er Tana Kaya Tara and his accomplices for allegedly assaulting him and award appropriate punishment as per law. The Council will initiate necessary steps democratically as per the provisions and rights granted in the Constitutions of India for all religions, if the authority fails to arrest the culprits.

An FIR has been lodged with Itanagar Police Station, on November  30 for immediate arrest of the culprit.  

 

Sports, literary and cultural meet

ITANAGAR Dec 1: The sports, literary cum cultural meet organized by All Kimin Students Union got underway at Mini Subansiri Stadium at Kimin under Papum Pare district.  

Attending the inaugural ceremony, ZPM Chairperson Nabam Aka said that students must take part in such co-curricular activities to expose their potentials in different fields.

She advised the organizing committee to enhance the meet so that different schools and students can participate.

 

Scholarships for meritorious students

Ziro, Dec 1: Saint Claret College in collaboration with Single Step Foundation, USA distributed academic scholarship to 45 meritorious girl students. The scholarship is distributed every year. The scholarship was distributed by Dr. V.N. Sharma, the state liaison Officer, Government of Arunachal Pradesh on the occasion of World AIDS’ Day celebration.

In his address Dr. Sharma emphasized the importance of education in moulding a better society. He also marveled at the missionary colleges for taking initiative in giving quality education in the state. He also said that instituting scholarship of this sort will really benefit the poor students to pursue their higher education. The programme was also attended by Dr. Hage Nibo, the DMO incharge, Dr. Kuru Tama and Dr. N. Bazaar.

 

Sikkim to host NE Chess C’ship

ITANAGAR, Dec 1: The  5th North East Chess Championship 2012 would be held at Sikkim from the first week of January, 2012.

The rotational championship, which was supposed to be held in Arunachal Pradesh, could not be conducted here due to some unavoidable circumstances, informed Arunachal Pradesh Chess Association.

 

Demand for removal of project head

ITANAGAR, Dec 1:  Subansiri Middle Power Project Local Implementation Committee, in a letter to chairman cum managing director of Jindal Centre, New Delhi demanded for removal/replacement of the  HoP, Subansiri Middle HEP for his alleged mismanagement and dictatorial role in execution of the hydel project thus creating law and order problem.

It alleged that law and order problems have been created in execution of drifting LDR-I and LDR-II in the left bank of the project site. Further, he has utterly failed to provide job opportunities to the local people as promised earlier, the letter said.

It further alleged that the HoP did not provide some important data in DPR to the committee in spite of its demand for providing the same.

The committee threatened to oppose the construction of the project in case the chairman fails to respond to the demand.

 

Mass vaccination programme for livestock

ITANAGAR, Dec 1: Mass vaccination programme for livestock was successfully completed in various villages of Taliha circle in Upper Subansiri.

The program was conducted from November 21-28 under the guidance of Dr. M. Hankar, DVO, Daporijo.

A team headed by Dr. Taga Nalo, VO covered Menga, Bogne, Bagbi, Lepajaring, Mara, Taliha Hq, Rading, Kodak, Konia, Nogi, Talamriktak, Darba,, Lingram, Doyom, Ebo and Damba villages in the week-long programme.

In all, 1259 Mithun, 59 cattle, 361 goat were administered FMD HSBQ combine vaccine, 1225 poultry birds with Ranikhet disease and IBD vaccines and 79 dog with Raksharab and Nobivac vaccine.

 

APSTSU welcomes dept gesture

ITANAGAR, Dec 1: Arunachal Pradesh Schedule Tribe Students Union (APSTSU), in a release, claimed that the power department has assured the family members of late Nyajum Kakki, who succumbed to electrocution recently, to give some amount and job to one of the victim’s family members on compassionate ground.

While welcoming the gesture shown, the union strongly urged the department concerned that atleast Rs.10 lakh be given along with job as compensation.

It further urged the department to do all needful to avoid such accident in future.

 

Demand for creation of new circle Hqs

ITANAGAR, Dec 1: Kurung-Nyobia Youth Association (KNYA) has demanded for creation of a new circle headquarters within Kurung-Nyobia belt for administrative convenience as well as equitable development of the area.

While urging the Nyapin MLA to pursue the matter with the State Government, KNYA said that creation of the circle headquarter was needed considering the geographical as well as population vastness of the present Sangram circle due to which various development programmes and policies of the Government are not reaching to the area.

The association also demanded for construction of road from Sangram circe headquarters to Parsi Parlo circle via Kurung Nyobia belt.

 

Conference held

ITANAGAR Dec 1: The 6th general conference cum election/ selection of central executive members of state and district units of All Puriok Welfare Society (APWS) was held on Wednesday. Developmental issues like health and education sectors of the community were also discussed in the meeting, a release said.

 

Believers observe Dorr Chirnam

ITANAGAR Dec 1: The Donyi Dorr Chirnam Aal, an annual offering day of Donyi-Polo believers was observed on  November 27 last at Doimukh Central Nyedar Namlo. The main objective of the prayer was to seek blessing from almighty Aane Donyi for prosperity of all humankind.

More than 150 devotees turned up for the function, a communiqué said.

 

Forum says no to urban project

ITANAGAR Dec 1:  Doimukh People Forum today appealed to the Urban Projects Contractors not to execute projects in Doimukh township saying that allocation for urban development projects would be illegal since the township comes under rural segment. It further said that rural projects should be implemented rather than urban. DPF requested the state government and local MLA to sort out the matter at the earliest.

 

Demand for regularization of service

ITANAGAR, Dec 1:  Arunachal Pradesh Tribal Job Contract Employees’ Union (APTICEU) NEEPCO Ltd. appealed to the state government to help regularize the services of employees working at Pare and Kameng hydel projects on contract basis.

While demanding for proper implementation of the agreement signed between the State Government and NEEPCO authority for the betterment of the project affected people, the Union demanded for regularization those employees, who have been working on contract basis since 2005 without proper designation, within December 31 as per agreement signed between NEEPCO authority and representatives of the said project in March 2011 at Shillong.

 

Arunachal opposes additional tax

ITANAGAR:  Aruna-chal Pradesh Government has opposed the system of countersigning permits and additional taxes imposed by Assam Government on commercial vehicles of Arunachal Pradesh and urged for exempting the same.

Raising the issue in the high level meeting of National Transport Development Policy and Committee on development of transport infrastructure in North East at Guwahati on November 29 last, the Director cum Secretary, STA Tai Kaye said that since most of the districts must cross Assam to reach the state capital and other places, imposition of such taxes on commercial vehicles and countersigning permit are not justified unless they do business in Assam. Further imposition of tax at halfway also contradicts the Central Motor Vehicle Act 1989, he said.

Participants from other states urged the representatives of the Ministry of Road for providing adequate budgetary support to Arunachal Pradesh Transport department.

The meeting was presided over by NTDPC chairman Vivek Shah and participated by DoNER Secretary Jayant Chandra, Director Border Roads Organization (BRO), heads of railways, Air Force etc.

 

BJP demands  implementation of enhanced salary

ITANAGAR: The Bharatiya Janata Party Arunachal Pradesh reiterated its demands for implementation of enhanced monthly salary for Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) teachers in the state which the state government announced several months ago.

The services rendered in the interior schools by the SSA teachers should be encouraged with necessary allowance so that state government run schools do not experience absence of teachers.

It further said that education department should explore necessary measures to improve the quality of education. It said that implementation of the Right To Education (RTE) in the state should bear results in the form of quality education all over the state while suggesting that there be grading system of  educational institutions so that problems confronting all schools are addressed.

News Impact

Absentee employees

Dear Editor

Through the column of your esteemed daily, I would like to draw the attention of the authorities concerned to the PHE and W/S department  towards the lackadaisical attitude of its employees. On Nov 26, I waited outside the office of the said department in ESS sector for almost half an hour to pay the water bill but there was no sign of any staff close by. The office was open without any staff to cater to the service of the common people.  

I had to return home without paying the bill. It was a waste of time, energy and fuel. It is a serious matter as it reflects the poor work culture of the department. And I hope this letter of grievance would be taken into account by the authorities concerned.

Yours,

Bompi Riba

Itanagar,  (on email)

 

 

Hindi is a binding force

Dear Editor,

Anti-Hindi statements by Diganta and Jason  signifies that there is no dearth of lunatics in the country, and the ridiculous part is accepting English instead. I would like to mention Hindi which they are so critical about is the only binding force in India. The most developed nation like Japan,Korea,Germany, Russia,France and even our immediate neighbor China to name a few don't give priority to English language because they have immense love and pride for their country, not like us having a parochial attitude. I was in Shillong from my elementary school till my University days and I am proud to be the student of the Srivastav,Mukherjee and Das to name a few who were totally exceptional in their field of Mathematics and they were the pioneers of the Mathematical intellectual in the North-Eastern today. But the sad part, branding the people of the mainland as the outsider is totally illogical. History is the biggest witness that development takes place when the people from the developed zone come to the backward zone, the latter developed. But as some people learn to read and write they don't know what they are writing. If it were not for these people who they are branding as an outsider, the northeastern part of India would be reeling under darkness same like the tribal in Andaman roaming around naked. The people of north east no doubt are a good imitator but of bad cause. We try to be western by our outward looks but we are total failure at the level of the hard work the western people do. Not to mention here, it won't be a matter of surprise if the people in the state of Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur and Meghalaya lose their ethnic identity in the years to come and that time they will be solely responsible because of their affinity towards the western culture.

Yours,

Pawan Rai

Itanagar,  (on email)

 

 

Reasons for MV road to come up

Dear Editor,

Here I share the reasons why Miao-Vijaynagar (MV) road should come up. It is question of India’s dignity. What kind of government in the world cannot complete a 157Km road in 30 years?  It is a question of logic. If Vijoynagar is an administrative Circle, why it must not be connected? It is a question of survival. What would happen if the CO or the doctor, or a labourer is down with life threatening sickness and the weather does not allow the helicopter?  It is dangerous to have a 157 Kms of jungle unmotorable road!  Ask the locals and they will count for you the number of people who died on the ‘road’ and those that got very ill on the ‘road’ and died soon afterwards.  It is a disrespecting the labourers who built the road all manually, in the late 1960s and many of them lost lives in the process of making the road. Is it not a sacrifice going to the trench?  It is a question of security.  Vijoynagar is not barren. There are people in Vijoynagar. It is a question of credibility. Who is building the road there? Which department is at work? Where did they get their credentials? They are not able to show a road in 30 years!  It is a question of reputation of the proficient Governor J. J. Singh.  He said he would drive to Vijoynagar. What happens if does not do it!

Some people use Namdapha Card to fool the authorities. Therefore they do not press for the road. I tell you, no animal or no vegetation is greater than your mother! Moreover, once the road is built, you can go in the park and count the number of Tigers and Elephants by yourself. And watch the birds first hand.

Former DC Dr S. B. Deepak Kumar walked the 157km MV Road in December 2008. He advocated for the road reconstruction. Then the Governor Singh surveyed the road from Miao end till the 14th Mile a year later. Then he brings a package of funds from New Delhi to make the road.

When great people like Deepak Kumar and the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh are behind a mere old road, you do not have a reason to doubt that the best road of India is going to be the M-V Road!  Let us see!

Yours,

Avia Ngwazah

Miao,  (on email)

 

 

Less congestions now!

Dear Editor,

It is good to know that the mobile phone network connection in Daporijo has once again become stable. Recently I wrote a letter on your daily regarding this burning issue and unexpectedly the  complete scenario changed within a short span of time. We are now more or less happy with the situation at least for the moment. But in spite of certain reforms, the network connection is always congested. Several more changes need to land in this area.

Therefore, I would like to appreciate the concerned authority for their immediate actions. I would also urge for more improvement in the coming days.

Yours,

Jim Kamlo (on email)

 

 

Include job section too

Dear Editor,

Firstly I would like to congratulate you on giving new face to the Arunachal Times that is available on internet. Every sections of news are systematically categorised which make reading very interesting.

However, it would have been much better if there was a section "job search" in your daily which contained every local and national job, in particular local jobs.

I request you to take up this matter on priority and implement as soon as possible.

Yours,

Biri Gatu

Kanubari, (on email)

 

 

Tighten the security

Dear Editor,

I would like to draw your kind attention towards the serious problem which is being faced by the common people. On Nov  27, I was in General Hospital Naharlagun, New Block, as an attendant and witnessed some kind of problem due to the unavailability of security guard and not using of entrance gate properly. Some guys parked their car on the road opposite to medical entrance and started making noise and fighting with each other. Most of them crossed the gate and started the same inside the medical campus. When enquired, one of the attendants was threatened and abused with un-parliamentary words.

It started from 12.45 a.m. and continued till 3.54 a.m. At last, we feel relieved when the goons were caught from the terrace of the medical ward by Arunachal Police personnel and Paramilitary Force and brought  the situation under control.

In this backdrop, I cordially request to the medical authority to put some security measure especially during the night hours. Earlier also there were few incidences bag lifting and theft of money and valuable items of patients and attendant inside the medical ward. Therefore, it is the high time to put a check on this kind of illegal activities at least inside the Hospital Campus.

Yours,

Concern Man,

(on email)

 

 

Let’s stop the fight

Dear Editor,

I am sick and tired of the everyday bitching about Hindi on the valuable space of your esteemed reader’s forum section. I am sure its sending across negative vibes to the readers of this section. Inherently, language is beautiful so is every part of culture and tradition, no matter whoever it belongs to. The prejudices attached to them by a person makes them look ugly to that particular person. The hatred against any culture or tradition is nothing but a deeply wired complicated mesh of concoction of different types of hatred. Such things don’t have any place in a healthy mind. The stereotyping of any particular attribute to any section of people is nothing but a kind of hatred mixed with snobbery and misanthropism; and the part about accepting or rejecting any thing that comes to you is a strict individual choice.

For instance, I am well versed in Hindi and having had my primary education in the prestigious Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalayas, I am also well versed in Hinduism; and that’s a huge asset to me. By religion, I profess Christianity which is strictly my own individual choice but I am proud to be aware about the deep philosophical nuances of Hinduism which has helped me to appreciate people following Hinduism. Dark and negative mindset is a generic attribute of human psyche and is not a proprietary of any particular community or section of people. Let’s be sane and stop polluting more minds. Let’s stop fighting over Hindi language for good.

Yours,

Syndulum

Tezu, (on email)

 

 

___________

 

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

----Editor

 

A hot decade

 

Since 1850, the temperatures this year was the tenth highest on record, and the highest ever in a year which experienced a La Niña event, a meteorological phenomenon which is supposed to have a cooling influence on Earth’s atmosphere, a United Nations agency reported.

The findings unveiled at UN climate talks in Durban are among the highlights of the provisional UN World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) Statement on the Status of the Global Climate, which provides an annual snapshot of weather and climate events around the world.

Thousands of representatives from governments, international organisations and civil society are meeting to advance ways to cut global carbon emissions and pollution at the South African city.

According to the report, the 13 warmest years have all occurred after 1997, and the period between 2002 and 2011 is the warmest-ever decade, registering 0.46 degrees Celsius above the long-term average.

According to WMO, 2011 was heavily influenced by a strong La Niña event which developed in the tropical Pacific at the end of last year and continued until May. Scientists have closely linked this event with the droughts in East Africa as well as in islands in the central equatorial Pacific and the southern part of the United States. It is also associated with the floods in Southern Africa, Southern Asia, eastern Australia and Central and South America.

The report also warns of high levels of concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which are bringing average global temperatures closer to surpassing the recommended two degree Celsius target, which could trigger irreparable changes on the planet.

One would just hope that the figures are taken seriously and efforts are put in place to control the dramatic climate changes. Durban talks should be a step forward.

Copyright © 2008, The Arunachal Times Publications Pvt. Ltd., Siang House, Sector - E, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh - 791111, India

All rights reserved.