December 25
News Impact
Cash reward stands
ITANAGAR, Dec 24: The cash reward of Rs 2 lakh announced by the Arunachal Pradesh Police for giving information or clue leading to arrest of the assailant/s of Tongam Rina, Associate Editor of The Arunachal Times still stands. The identity of the informer/s will be kept secret. The informer/s may contact Capital SP at tele. numbers : 09436040006
Sanjoy lauds role of NACSW
ITANAGAR, Dec 24: Member of Parliament Takam Sanjoy praised the organizing committee
of 4th Nyishi Idol-
Attending the function of the singing talent hunt on December 22 evening, Sanjoy encouraged the contestants to keep up the same spirit and continue singing in future too. He contributed Rs. two lakh to the fund of organizing committee as a token of appreciation.
Bengia Tabb, senior artist cum adviser to 4th Nyishi Idol Organizing Committee assured to produce a cassette with 8 finalists before Nyokum Yullo festival next year.
Meanwhile, the organizing committee has expressed gratitude to all the sponsors of 4th Nyishi Idol, namely Techi Kaso, MLA Itanagar constituency, Tai Tayo, former ASM chairperson of Kimin and Kiren Rijiju, former MP Lok Sabha. It also expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Nabam Tuki for extending all help contribution for successful completion of the program.
Friendship FC beat Ngurang FC 3-
ITANAGAR, Dec 24: In the second day of the 2nd league match of the Christmas Premier
Football League, the Friendship FC defeated Ngurang FC by 3-
In another match, Nyoph Nia FC drew 2-
In the last match of the day, Paney Brothers FC beats Good Shepherd FC by 1-
Christmas Greetings
ITANAGAR, Dec 24: Governor J J Singh and Chief Minister Nabam Tuki greeted the people of the State on the auspicious occasion of Christmas.
The Governor, in his message, wished the people a happy Chirstmas and hoped this Christmas will bring peace, prosperity and happiness to the State.
In his message, Tuki called upon the people to share the values and preaching of
Lord Jesus and up-
“May this X-
Ph D degree
ITANAGAR, Dec 24: Mari Lollen has been awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Anthropology by the Rajiv Gandhi University.
Lollen was awarded the degree for his thesis, “Utilization and conservation of natural resources in mountain habitat: a study on livelihood pattern and indigenous knowledge system of the Memba of Arunachal Pradesh.” He conducted his research work under supervision of Prof. SK Chaudhuri of the Department of Anthropology of the same university.
The degree will be conferred on him at the next convocation of the university.
Mari is son of late Bimmar Lollen and Rege Lollen of Jirdin village of West Siang.
Death condoled
ITANAGAR, Dec 24: All Honik Hoke Welfare Association (AHHWA) has mourned the death of Rigio Tache of Gyapin village, Pipsorang circle, who died on Dec 20. Late Tache was one of the MLA contestants from Tali Assembly during 1998 election and worked for his community. He is survived by two wives, three daughters and a son. The Association conveyed deep sense of condolence to bereaved family and prayed for heavenly abode of departed soul.
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162 days have passed. The culprits involved in the July 15 attack on The Arunachal Times associate editor Tongam Rina are still at large.
Violence erupts over land dispute, Chakma refugees ransack Miao town
Taba Ajum
ITANAGAR, Dec 24: Violence broke out at Miao town between indigenous Singpho tribe and Chakma refugees over a land dispute. According to the report, problem started when local Singpho people began constructing house at M’ Pen village in the land belonging to one Thuing Singpho.
Two years ago also violence had broke out between Singpho and Chakma refugees over same plot of land.
Legally Thuing Singpho is the owner of land as she posses the Land Possession Certificate for the same plot. The LPC was challenged by some Chakmas in the Guwahati High Court, Itanagar Bench but the court had rejected the appeal petition. Following a recent court order, an order was issued by the ADC, Miao directing the Chakma encroachers to evict from the said land on their own by 21st December, 2012. The local administration has also tried to carry out eviction many times but could not due to hostile atmosphere created by Chakma.
After winning the battle at court, the local Singphos had constructed around 20 traditional huts at M’Pen village. However, to the surprise of everyone on Sunday afternoon around 3.30 PM, a group of Chakma refugee burnt down the entire hut and chased away the Singpho citizens who were staying there.
According to eyewitness, Chakmas also allegedly fired gun shoot at them and dared Singphos not to come back again. The local administration claimed that police force rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control. However one Singpho resident while talking over phone informed that despite making several pleas police could not help citing lack of force. “Most of the police force had gone to Vijoynagar where CM was visiting. The local people even approached CRPF for help but they turned down our plea,” said a citizen. Situation turned for worse today as Chakma refugee thousands in number ransacked entire Miao town and looted the shops. This was done in retaliation to the ransacking of one shop belonging to a Chakma refugee at Miao town which was allegedly carried out by Singpho group. The Chakma group also attacked house of one KG Singhpho, a senior citizen of the area at Miao town.
Meanwhile, there are report that Chakma refugees are on a rampage and attacking various Singpho villages in and around Miao area. Small Singpho villages like Pisi, Lewang,Phup and Khagam have become vulnerable and there are growing fear that these villages will be attacked anytime. The local Administration today initiated talks between leaders of the two parties to maintain peace in the area but the effort failed. The district and local administration is trying its best to bring the tense situation under control by mobilizing all the security forces available in the area. Administration has imposed 144 CrPC in Miao town in view of tense situation. Civil police, Assam Rifles and CRPF jawans have been pressed into intense patrolling in all the affected locations. The DC and SP, Changlang along with CO, 18 Assam Rifles has rushed to Miao to take stock of the situation after attending the CM visit at Vijoynagar.
The land dispute at M’Pen between local Singpho and Chakma has been dragging on for
last few years. Even though court had given verdict in favour of rightful owner Thuing
Singpho, the Chakma refugees in violation of court order had refused to vacate the
land despite many orders from district administration. The state government and local
administration totally failed to safeguard interest of indigenous population. Adding
to the woes, the All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU), the apex student organization
of state which formed specially to fight menace of Chakma-
Tawang tense after protest rally against dam
Amar Sangno
ITANAGAR, Dec 24: The situation remained grim at Tawang as thousands of people mostly monks and villagers led by Save Mon Region Federation (SMRF) defied the 144 CrPC and took out a rally from Tawang Monastery to Old market today in protest against construction of dam.
With the voice against construction of hydro-
The Security personnel resorted to lathi charge and lobbed couple of tear gases to disperse the mob. It is reported that many protesters including few security personnel were injured during the mob clash. A monk, who received grievous injuries, was later shifted to district hospital, sources added.
Observers feel that use of brutal force against peace loving Monks that too in Tawang, which shares international border with China, will send a wrong signal.
According to sources, the situation turned ugly when angry mob started clash with security personnel by pelting stones at them at Old market, demanding an immediate release of detained seven activists including SMRF general secretary Lobsang Gyatso, who were arrested on 21st Dec for allegedly ransacking NHPC office.
The anti-
Construction of huge projects in Tawang will not only cause eco-
The highly placed source informed that after observing the volatile situation, the district administration had to release the detained activists unconditionally to defuse the growing tension. It also sought for additional forces from the state government to tackle the situation. To add more worst to the already grimed situation, it is said that hundreds of monk from Karnataka are on their way to Tawang to join the protest.
When contacted by this correspondent DC Tawang Kemo Lollen said that situation is under control and there is nothing to panic. However Lollen confirmed that district administration has to seek more additional forces since the situation is unpredictable.
During May last, the Buddhist Monks had reportedly asked Union power minister to put a moratorium on hydroelectric projects in Tawang district.
Earlier on April 4 this year, thousands of Tawang people took out a mega public rally against construction of power projects.
CM appeals for peace and bonhomie
ITANAGAR, Dec 24: Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has expressed serious concerns over the incidents of violence that erupted in Lohit district in an urgently called high power committee meeting here this evening at CM’s office chamber. The meeting was attended by the Chief Secretary, Home Commissioner and Director General of Police.
Tuki had called the meeting immediately after arriving from Vijoynagar in Changlang
district this afternoon after a two-
Expressing concern on the clash between members of the communities of Singpho and Chakmas, triggered by an order on land dispute by the High Court, the Chief Minister appealed for peace and bonhomie. He said violence is no solution to any dispute and called for dialogue in a congenial atmosphere. He also appealed people not to panic as the administration is in command of the situation.
After reports of clashes between the two communities, the state government, under directions from the Chief Minister, has deployed additional forces of state police, paramilitary and army personnel in areas volatile to the situation. The Chief Minister, who is in constant touch with the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of the district, has informed that the situation in Lohit is tense but under control.
Parliamentary Secretary for Finance and Information Technology C C Singpho, who is also the local legislator of the area, Parliamentary Secretary for Home Gadam Ete and senior police officials would leave Itanagar early tomorrow to monitor the situation and stabilize the tension. Minister for Food and Civil Supplies Kamlung Mossang, who is the legislator from neighbouring Changlang district, is already in the area to take stock of the situation.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister has assured of peace and normalcy in Tawang district,
where reports have come in of clashes between pro and anti-
Tuki promises funds for completion of Miao-
VIJOYNAGAR, Dec 24: It was contrasting emotions in Vijoynagar, a remote circle headquarters
in Changlang district, which despite being part and parcel of the 21st century is
yet to be connected by an all-
While tiny tots of Ngwadi Chafu (NC) Public School displayed ultimate patriotism by their enthusiastic rendering of ‘Saare Jahan se Achcha, Hindostan Humara’, the womenfolk enacted a skit portraying hardships faced by the people of the region. The Lisus or Yobins expressed exasperation of not yet being included in the scheduled tribe list of the state, while the Gurkhas resented of being settled by the Assam Riffles in a region without any basics needed to survive.
For Vijoynagar, however, this Sunday brought a ray of hope – a big one.
On his maiden visit to the area on December 23 Chief Minister Nabam Tuki assured all possible attention of the government towards the hardships faced by the people and promised that they (the Yobins and Gurkhas) will not be deprived of their rights as citizens of Arunachal Pradesh.
“Better late than never,” he said and promised to put in place sufficient funds for
completion of the all-
The Chief Minister assured he would discuss the issue personally with all stakeholders and pursue it with the Government of India.
Another major issue faced by both Gurkha settlers and Yobins – non-
As Vijoynagar circle of 13 notified villages comes under the Miao sub-
Surprised of learning that the Gaon Buras, present in the public meeting, were only
given the red-
To a slew of demands, the Chief Minister assured his cooperation and help of the
government redress all grievances of the people. He requested local legislator, Food
& Civil Supplies Minister Kamlung Mossang to initiate proposals from his end so that
each can be taken up on need base in phased manner and others can be put up in the
Cabinet for decisions. He, however, agreed to place Rs 25 lakhs this year to start
flood protection works along the Noa-
Tuki also agreed to upgrade the Vijoynagar health sub-
The visit was also joined by Rajya Sabha MP and President of the Pradesh Congress Committee Mukut Mithi, Finance, Planning and PWD Minister Chowna Mein, WRD Minister N Tingkhatra, Food & Civil Supplies Minister K Mossang, PWD Parliamentary Secretary T N Thongdok and others.
The entourage returned on an IAF chopper this morning after a night’s halt at Vijoynagar.
APSWC advocates for harsh punishment to rapists
ITANAGAR, Dec 24: Expressing solidarity with the Delhi gang rape victim, Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) Chairperson Gumri Ringu said that the incident has once again raised the safety and security concerns of girl child in the country.
The Sate Women Commission (APSCW) has been pressing upon the Govt. to set up a fast track court to deal with such rape cases so that the trial of such heinous crimes could be completed within the time frame, the chairperson said in a release.
While citing the example of recent rape case of minor girl at Doimukh and Tawang,
she said that the alleged accused has been enlarged on bail due to non-
Expressing concern over rising crime against women in the state, the State Commission in its memorandum submitted to the Government has demanded to set up District Redressal Cell in every district.
The Commission observed that the victims of such heinous crime often threatened by the alleged accused and their relatives to not file any complaint and insist for settlement outside the court.
The Commission further requested the Government to beef up the security in the twin Capital cities of Itanagar and Naharlagun and entire district so that the girl child and women feel secure.
In regard to the Witchcraft case of Lower Dibang Valley, a complaint has been received by the Commission from the victim’s relatives and the Commission on receipt of complaint has initiated preliminary enquiry into the matter. The matter is under active consideration of the Sate Commission, the release said.
The APSCW also expressed solidarity with the demand of the National Commission for Women, (NCW) for amendment of the IPC and CrPc and to make rape an offence punishable by death penalty. This would act as deterrent, the APSCW observed.
Youth from all over India in their land Arunachal: Sena
NAMPONG, Dec 24: The presence of over 325 youths from all over India to attend the
week-
In his inaugural address to the campers today, Sena said that Arunachal, the 14th largest state in India, is known as one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in the world with 82% forest coverage where the tribal people with a rich cultural mosaic and unique life style and traditions live in harmony with people from rest of the nation in the spirit of unity in diversity to make it a ‘Mini India’.
“Nationalism is the true characteristic of Arunchalees who greet each other with Jai Hind,” Sena said adding about 70% Arunchalees have seen most part of India while most of Indians unfortunately are ignorant about the state.
Appreciating Gandhiji for using non-
Sena, who was representing Chief Minister Nabam Tuki as chief guest, made a special reference of the CM for making channelizing youth power top priority agenda of his government. He said the CM had not only supported for the camp but had launched the pilot project of CM’s Livelihood Mission School at Nampong, the eastern most village of India bordering Myanmar, on October 18 last to provide skill development training to youths to make them productive to contribute to nation building.
He lauded NYP and its chairman Dr S N Subba Rao for shouldering the responsibility of running the school besides organizing various programmes in this remote village.
The CM in his message said: “It was a matter of great concern that in August last, the nation witnessed the largest ever exodus of working people and students of NE India, including Arunachalees from southern states and Maharashtra under threat. This was because of simple reason that the people of NE have not been understood properly for their Mongoloid origin. They look different but they are the most patriotic lot of the country. Jai Hind greeting among the masses would be surprising for you all but that is the proof of our patriotism.
“I regret for missing this golden opportunity to be amongst you. I wish a grand success of the camp.”
While ZPM Khingrang Thikhak exhorted the youth to emulate the ideals of universal brotherhood and religious tolerance, propagated globally by Swami Vivekananada, to become true citizens and fly India’s flag high.
“Jodo jodo Bharat jodo, Kashmir ho Kanyakumari Bharat mata ek hamari, Nampong ho
ya Lakshadweep, apna desh apni mati” -
USSR and Pakistan broke into pieces because of language conflict, but India with 18 languages recognized by the Constitution has been growing stronger day by day on the strength of the capacity of its people to tolerate the diverse languages, religions and cultures.
India is mother to four religions where Hindusim, Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Christianity, Islam, Parsi, Yahudi, Taoism, Judaism, Synto and Bahai are flourishing among people who speak more than 1500 mother tongues, he said to justify why India has remained united against all threats.
NYP-
Senior journalist Sumedha Dhani from Haryana on her second visit to the state and All India Congress Seva Dal’s organizer (woman wing incharge of Karnataka), on her first visit to the state, described the trip as wonderful experience.
Sena also inaugurated a 10-
AIMSU demands effective implementation of transfer-
ITANAGAR, Dec 24: The Dibang Valley is considered as one of the most backward districts of the state, particularly in education sector. The lone Higher Secondary School situated at Anini is running without subject teachers for long period of time.
Despite repeated pleas, the higher authorities of education department has failed
to take any steps for posting of required subject teachers in the school, said All
Idu Mishmi Students Union (IMSU) in a release today. Annoyed with the non-
The union further said though the education department issues order for posting of teachers at Anini Hr Secondary school, the teachers do never turn up at Anini and they manage to change the posting place with the help of public leaders. Thus the posting orders are never implemented and it remains in papers only, the union said. On the other hand students of the district can not go outside the district for better education due to their poor economic condition, it said.
The union sought intervention of the chief secretary for posting of subject teachers at Anini H.S. School for better academic career of the students of Dibang Valley district. It further said that authorities must implement the transfer and posting policy strictly, so that teachers posted at Anini remain at posting place and complete their tenure of posting.
Road to a successful future isn’t always easy: Siram
PASIGHAT, Dec 24: Road to a successful future is not always easy and we have to work hard, said Education Minister Bosiram Siram today while visiting the proposed University site at the upper campus area of JN College.
“Our forefathers donated their valuable lands for meaningful and purposeful developments which should not be hampered,” he said adding that we must think for careers of our youths.
We should not look for short-
While informing that the Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has consented to lay foundation stone of the university on January 11, 2013 Siram informed that the state government has been extending its full supports providing the financial aid in the process. Accompanied by the DC RK Mishra, SP Pushpendra Kumar, JNC Principal T Talom, DDSE T Talom, EE (PWD) Oni Jamoh, LRSO Ojing Nangkar along with the host officers and leaders the minister also inspected the undergoing construction works of the Polytechnic College and expressed his happiness over the progress.
Coming down to the JNC lower campus, the team visited the proposed plots for construction of Administrative and Academic Blocks. The minister asked the executing agency PWD to start the construction works immediately as necessary fund has already been released. He also directed the EE (PWD) to repair and develop the approach road of lower and upper campus of JNC before the ensuing CM visit.
Later this evening, the minister attended a high level consultative meeting at the DC’s conference hall. The meeting was chaired by the Deputy Commissioner RK Mishra and it was attended by SP Pushpendra Kumar, ADC Nidhi Srivastava, retired IAS and APCS officers, senior citizens, officers, PRI members and local leaders.
While asking the concern departments to carryout their works in full swing so that
all undergoing projects are completed in time, the minister and DC stressed for face-
Praising the district administration and police for maintaining peace and tranquility in the township, Siram said, “Due to active efforts of the local administration and police, the rate of crime has gone down remarkably and people are feeling healthy and safe under their able administration.”
Among various issues, ensuing CM’s visit to Pasighat, beautification of the township, conduct of Tadar Tang Football tournament, law and order situation, drugs control, cleanliness drive, banning of plastic carry bags, proper implementation of traffic rules were discussed during the meeting. DIPRO
Appu Gapak
ITANAGAR, Dec 24: Bom Tayeng, 26, is one of the six finalists of the Nokia India Fest Turning Tables DJ Competition organized by channel (V) to be held in Goa on January 18, 2013.
The competition would be held among the winners of Bangalore, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Kolkata, and Delhi zones.
Bom was declared the winner of the Chennai Zone held at Hindustan University on December 15 last after beating 23 strong contenders for the title.
Bom says, “Since my childhood, I loved music. I love everything about music and then gradually I took interest in the DJ(s) of popular Rock bands. Those magical stuffs they do with the beats drove me crazy and later I decided to become a DJ.”
Hailing from Mebo Subdivision in East Siang district, Bom has done his Civil Engineering from Sr. MGR University in Chennai.
“I knew what it takes to be a DJ when your parents plan something else for you. The most challenging part of everything is when you juggle between two things. But I feel that I have overcome the worst part. My parents expects me to be an Engineer and I am very much aware of that fact, but I am consciously not thinking of it or letting it get to me. I want to do something different. My guru says, 'Be an engineer during the weekdays, and a great DJ on weekends'. Let’s see how it fares in my life,” Bom shares of his dream.
Bom was also the Best Newcomer Artist (DJ) at the War of DJs 2012 Channai earlier this year.
“I secretly believe that I will become one of the most famous DJs in the years to come,” Bom says with a laughs.
Giving out messages to youngsters, he says, “Youngsters who want to pursue career in DJing should always remember that when you are doing something you have got to stand there with 100 percent conviction.” “There is no shortcut to success. Your dedication, support from friends, family and fans will contribute to your success and to support those youngsters I am planning to open a DJ School in Itanagar,” he adds.
Khunjuju completes his second leg of tour
BOMDILA, Dec 24: “Development can never occur half-
“Concerted effort from all the stake holders’ results in the development of an area”,
he said adding that “if we are to move forward, accelerate the pace of development
and to set an example for others to emulate, we need to walk hands–in-
Responding to various demands to the legislator and HoDs during the tour like construction
of community halls, staff quarters, Chindang cultural halls, school buildings with
security fencings, water supply, fair price shops, posting of teachers and other
departmental staffs, agricultural tools and machineries, maintenance of buildings,
Khunjuju assured to look into the demands on need-
He further said “I have been, am and will be there for the unity, peace, tranquility
and brotherhoodness of my people as peace alone can pave the way for all-
Earlier, on the first day of his developmental tour Khunjuju attended the Chindang festival of the Sajolangs (Mijis) at Rurang with the HODs & PRI members of Bomdila and Nafra circle on December 19.
He accompanied by B Dehingia, Deputy Commissioner i/c, Zilla Parishad Chairperson L Rikhong, HOs, ZPM Leki Dongru and other PRI members of the area concerned during the 2nd tour. DIPRO
Displaced people need better water and sanitation
Urgent action is needed to improve water and sanitation for displaced people in Myanmar’s Rakhine State despite some progress, says UNICEF.
Tens of thousands of people displaced by conflict in western Myanmar’s Rakhine state and living in temporary camps have inadequate sanitation, poor hygiene conditions and limited access to safe water, increasing health risks to people in and near the sites.
Vulnerable groups, including children, are at greatest risk of diseases like diarrhoea
and other water-
While access and coverage of water and sanitation for people in camps in urban areas has improved, rural sites have much bigger numbers of internally displaced people and are in less accessible locations. A lack of space and congested living environments mean they have worse latrines and poorer hygiene. Surveys showed just over half of all displaced people have access to what is considered safe water. About 70 per cent have access to some sanitation and 60 per cent have access to basic sanitary supplies.
Expression of Gratitude
Dear Ediror,
I, the Mother of late Nani Tama, who was found dead and buried under the sand at
Ranaghat near Pasighat, express my sincere gratitude to all those who stood by me
and my family in the hour of grief. Apatani residents of Pasighat deserve special
mention for their support-
The family also thanks the media houses for continuous coverage, considering it as their social responsibilities. We are particularly grateful to The Arunachal Times and its reporter Mr Taba Ajum.
Because of constant support from all quarters, I have become more determined to fight for justice. The family expects similar supports and pressure to the police and administration in the days to come.
Yours,
Mrs Nani Yadii
Camp: Itanagar
Tendulkar should have been dropped much earlier
Dear Editor,
It is indeed a matter of great relief that Sachin Tendulkar has at last decided to
call it quits from at least the shorter version of the game. The person who aggregated
merely 315 runs from last 10 ODI matches held no right to plague the team by performing
pathetically. And the last ODI century that he scored, Tendulkar had played with
utmost selfishness by wasting innumerable precious deliveries so as to come up with
the statistical jugglery named "century of centuries" which not only "helped" India
to lose the crucial match against the minnows Bangladesh, but also saw to it that
India bows out from the Asia Cup final. Since no individual is greater than the team,
nation and the game; Tendulkar should have been dropped much earlier. A place in
the Indian team is not meant for an overhyped individual's personal "enjoyment",
but for assisting the unit to win by performing well and consistently which Tendulkar
was failing drastically to do. Neither the selectors nor the BCCI could have sacked
him for obvious reasons, Sachin Tendulkar being a brand name to be exploited to the
full by the sponsors and commercial establishments. Just like 'Bhisma Pitamaha',
only Tendulkar has the power to quit from the cricketing arena, thanks to the typically
laggard Indian mindset of not questioning the credentials of the "holy cows"! That
he has at last vacated a slot in the ODI format for more deserving young talented
cricketers is indeed a matter to rejoice of, now the least Tendulkar can do is to
retire from Test cricket also. He must realise that his performance in Test cricket
since a year and half is much worse than ODIs. Not only did Tendulkar aggregated
merely 112 in 6 innings against England in the just-
Thus it is sincerely hoped that Tendulkar will come to the realisation that his skills
have absolutely deserted him and he is a misfit for Test cricket also. He holds no
right or authority to cling to his place in the Test squad, despite being the liability
of the team, by banking on his glamour, aura, invincibility due to cheap commercial
reasons and media-
Yours’
Kajal Chatterjee,
Kolkata
- Violence erupts over land dispute, Chakma refugees ransack Miao town
- Tawang tense after protest rally against dam
- CM appeals for peace and bonhomie
- Tuki promises funds for completion of Miao-
Vijoynagar road - APSWC advocates for harsh punishment to rapists
- Youth from all over India in their land Arunachal: Sena
- AIMSU demands effective implementation of transfer-
posting policy. - Road to a successful future isn’t always easy: Siram
- Treading on a new path
- Khunjuju completes his second leg of tour
- Swami Vivekananada’s 150th birth anniversary
- A Christmas Story!
Swami Vivekananada’s 150th birth anniversary
Best tribute to build a strong India
Dr S N Subba Rao
After his historical presentation at the Parliament of World Religions in Chicago, Swami Vivekananda’s name became well known all over India and he was much sought after by people. An inspired young man met Swamiji and sought his help for spiritual knowledge. Looking at his weak physique, Swamiji asked him, “Do you know how to play football?” The youth was confused .He was asking spiritual guidance and Swamiji asked him about football! What was the relevance at all? Swamiji got him the answer, “Through football, you will understand the Geeta better Swamiji was interpreting the Vedantic statement, ‘Naayamatma Balaheenena labhycate”(spiritual attainment cannot be achieved by the weak). Fearlessness and strength were the twin message of Swami Vivekananda all through his life.
On January 12, 2013, the world is celebrating the 150th birth centenary of this giant. What should be our priority? Millions of rupees will be spent by the grateful government and other institutions. Memorial building will be erected and a lot of literature printed. All most welcome. But at the same time, let us ask ourselves, “Will all our tributes help build a stronger India? Help make Indians more honest? Help feed the hungry and cure the sick?
Govt supported social service: During the Gandhi centenary in 1969 also, there were many conventional tributes to Gandhiji: Gandhi Bhavans in universities, books on Gandhi published etc. One programme that was launched during 1969 that has been doing some good work is the launching of the National Service Schemes (NSS). The NSS may lead improvement, but it has opened up new avenues of service to thousands of students. Thus, the NSS should make the best use of this rare opportunity.
Make up for the missed opportunity: The year 1985 was special to the youth as the year had been designated the International Youth Year by the United Nations. It was a great occasion for 1) strengthening character among the youth & 2) directing the youth energy for nation building.
While discussing youth programmes in committees, I repeatedly made as simple recommendation: 1) an akhada (rural gymnasium) for every village and 2) mini stadium for every block or tehsil.
The akhadas and mini-
Was the cost too much? Was I impractical? So, I gave up.
But I do not think it was impractical at all. It will do good for us, Indians to take a look around in the world.
When China got its new regime in 1949, it was a weak nation addicted to opium and other vices. How is it that during the recent London Olympics and other international events, China is the top scorer in gold medals? While fixing its priorities, new China put their youth programmes in the top line.
They listened to Lenin’s words, “arm the people with ideas and they will arm themselves.” So, China made its priority: Build the youths strong, give them a sense of pride in their country and in themselves and they will build a healthy, happy, peaceful and strong nation.
If China could find the resources to build their youths, India must find its resources. Youth must be a priority in India’s agenda and money will come.
A comparison will help understand the perspective.
• India has 5,76,000 villages. Against this number, let us compare China which has built 1.1 million (11 lakhs) of sports venues.
• 2200 Physical Constitution Monitoring Centres in China have taken physical tests of 2.83 million (28.30 laks) Chinese people.
• 33% of all Chinese take up regular physical exercises in the morning.
The Chinese are taking special care of their white collared employees and they do not suffer from physical disabilities. Many cities have their own Citizen Sports Committees and white collared people take regular sports classes.
One lesson that India must take from China is: expenditure for improving the strength and health of our youths is an investment and not a burden on our economy!
Let us use the opportunities provided by Swami Vivekanada’s 150th birth anniversary to launch a movement to make India stronger – physically, intellectually and spiritually. Let every youth remember Swamiji’s message, “Do everything that makes you stronger and reject whatever makes you weak.”
The second important message is: Every being is divine and our effort should be to realize this divinity in us. “I am divine, I am strong, I am pure and bear the best character.”
During the year 2013, let every India feel proud of being an India citizen and of a great civilization and will never indulge in violence, corruption, crime or destroy Indians and India’s property.
With so much natural resources, how happy, healthy and harmonious our country can be!
As our contribution to Swami Vivekananada’s 150th birth anniversary, let us decide for ourselves, “Each day, I shall devote one hour for my body (Exercise) and one hour for my Mother India. For my own happiness, I shall be honest.” (Dr Subba is chairman of National Youth Project, spread in 64 nations and engaged in empowering youth to benefit global humanity)
Prof. (Dr.) Jayadeba Sahoo
The child slept in the comer of the room, his parents slept close by. They were poor and times were hard but they had decorated the room as best as they could. In another comer stood a small Christmas tree decorated with silver tinsel, glass bells and baubles. On the branches there was cotton wool snow and underneath the tree were boxes and parcels tied with coloured ribbons and all neatly labelled.
At the very top of the tree stood a fairy in a white dress carrying a wand. Above her head was a beautiful star shining in the light of the fire burning in the hearth. The old clock in the alcove struck midnight and the fairy woke up, looked at the boy and flew around the room touching all the paper decorations hanging from the walls with her wand. They glistened in the darkness. Next she touched all the baubles hanging on the tree and they glowed with many beautiful colours. As the fairy went about her business the boy woke up and silently watched the beautiful scene in front of him.
The fairy knew that the boy was awake but said nothing and carried on with her work of bringing light to the dingy room. Quietly the boy whispered "Who are you?" "My name is Shiva Shakti", said the fairy in a light voice, "and my job is to transform this old place so that you can have a bright new dawn to enjoy all the gifts that have been brought for you for thousands of years to come." The boy's eyes lit up and a tear of joy ran down his cheek. "We have not had much happiness lately", he said, "everything has been going wrong and everyone is poor and many are sick. The world seems to be filled with nothing but sorrow."
"I can change all that with your help", said a voice from the corner. The boy looked
but could see no one there. "You won't see me by looking in that way", chuckled the
voice. The boy looked again, but could not see anyone. Again the light laughter came
and the boy noticed that the star on the top of the tree was glowing and was surrounded
by beautiful red light. "Are you in that star?" asked the boy. "I am the star -
"That would be nice", said the boy, "but my mum and dad say that there is now no hope for us and that the whole world is falling apart and can't last much longer." "That's why I have come and that's why I need your help."
The boy was silent for a while. "Do you also have a name?" he asked. "My name is Shiva means the ‘Benevolent’ or ‘Benefactor’ or the benign or a divine dot i.e. who is beneficial to all," said the star. I am God called as ‘SHIUN’ in Babylon, ‘Seva’ or ‘Sevajya’ in Syria, in Egypt & Fiji; ’Sibru’ in the land occupied by the progeny of Abraham, ‘Jehova’ to Moses & his followers very similar to the Sanskrit word ‘Shiva’ derived from two phonetic parts ‘Shi’ & ‘Va’ meaning ‘Redeemer’ & ‘Liberator’ of sins which Indicates to Me Almighty alone. "And I want you to meet my other helper."
At that moment there was a great rumbling in the chimney and a large man with
white hair and a big white moustache, dressed all in white appeared in the hearth.
"Who are you?" asked the boy. "Some call me Adam, some call me Brahma, some call
me ABU TANI and some even call me Father Christmas." "Father Christmas is red," the
boy argued. "No, red is Shiva's colour, mine is white." As he looked back at Shiva-
"You must be God!", said the boy. "They do also call me that", said Shiva," and I
am your eternal Father and he," said Shiva pointing to Brahma, "is the Father of
all humanity-
The boy woke up. His mother was gently stroking his head. "Happy Christmas", she said. "Happy Christmas Mum", he said jumping out of bed. "What are you going to do today?" asked mum. "I am going to change the world," said the boy and do you know what? He did.
This period when Iron Age or Kaliyuga (Dark Age) is coming to an end and the Golden
Age or Satya Yuga is about to commence is the present time, called Confluence Age
or Sangamyuga (Transition Period). Jesus says, “When you see a cloud coming up in
the west, at once you say, ‘It is going to rain,’ and it does. And when you feel
the south wind blowing, you say ‘It is going to get hot,’ and it does. Hypocrites
! You can look at the earth and sky and tell what it means; why, then, don’t you
know the meaning of this present time.” Jesus also says, "But I tell you the truth
: it is better for you that I go away because if I do not go away, the Helper will
not come to you. And when He comes He will prove to the people of the world that
they are wrong about what is right, and about God’s judgment ……… I have much more
to tell you, but now it would be too much for you to bear. But when the Sprit of
Truth-
On this special festival it is imperative for all to be awakened from that deep slumber
of ignorance and be connected constantly with the Supreme Light through meditation.
So, let us all irrespective of different religious faith celebrate this ‘Christmas’
to empower our self through process of Supreme Communion (Raja Yoga) with Him to
inculcate His Supreme Commands of Universal Values to establish a “Value Based Happy
Society of Culture of Peace & Non Violence" -
The understanding of this eternal truth will usher in religious harmony & world peace.
Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University has been engaged in this task for last
75 years since its inception in 1936-
On this auspicious occasion of ‘Christmas’, take a moment for deep spiritual introspection and free yourselves from the bondage of greed, the lust for power and a slave of promiscuity and make God your eternal companion for true peace, happiness and prosperity. (The writer is a Faculty, Brahma Kumaris, RERF &Head, Dept of Education, R.G.U.)
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