February  9

Concerned at slow progress of hydro power projects, state moots HPC

ITANAGAR, Feb 8: State Chief Minister Nabam Tuki concerned over the slow progress of hydro power Projects today hinted to constitute a High Power Committee to find out the reasons behind the delay.  

He was addressing the MPs, Ministers, Parliamentary Secretaries, MLAs, DCs and DFOs in two different meetings at Banquet hall during a presentation by the Hydro Power department on the status of various issues pertaining to implementation of hydro electric projects in the state.

While pitching for team work to realize the cherished dream of making the state the Power House of the country, the Chief Minister said “we must work with one agenda i.e. development of Arunachal Pradesh”.

Tuki, reiterated his stand over the need of improving the economic background of the state to make it self sufficient and self reliant. He categorically said that the state despite abundant natural resource is lagging behind in various fronts. Even for a small project we need to plead the centre for fund, he lamented. Hydro Power is only such resource which could sail Arunachal Pradesh towards sustainable and resourceful development, he added. He called upon the Deputy Commissioners to ensure maintenance of law and order in order to make conducive atmosphere for the investors coming to the state. Besides, advising them to make frequent inspections to the schools and colleges for ensuring proper and quality education, he asked them to monitor all ongoing developmental programmes in their respective districts.

He requested the Environment and Forest department of the state to expedite the process of clearance in respect of Hydro Electric Projects. The delay in forest and environment clearance from the state will automatically delay clearance in the centre, Tuki pointed.

Participating in the meeting, Member of Parliament Takam Sanjoy stressed for Single Window Clearance for all developmental projects including Hydro Electric Projects from the Centre. He reiterated the delay in clearance of projects which hampers in timely completion of projects incurring heavy revenue loss to the state.

He advised the DCs to handle the law and order situation seriously and have parleys with agitating bodies so that an amicable solution can be sorted out. “The State Forest Officials should be made competent to give clearance through NOC”, he suggested in view of delay in Forest and Environment clearance in the state.

“We must join hands and work in unison to make our state the leader of the country” Sanjoy emphatically said.

Principal Secretary Power, H K Paliwal through a power point presentation gave a detail status of the power projects, the reasons behind the delay and steps to be initiated from the state’s end.

 

Assam Rifles Recruitment Saga continues

Taba Ajum

ITANAGAR, Feb 8: Assam Rifles (AR) has reacted strongly to the allegation about non-APSTS like Chakma and Nepali citizens being recruited under ST quota meant for Arunachal. In an email statement Col AK Chaudhary, PRO, Director General of Assam Rifles Shillong stated that there was no foul play in the recruitment process.  

“Candidates are selected on the basis of original certificate of caste and domicile produced by them at the rally site.  However, these certificates are again verified from the concerned authorities after issuing of appointment letter for enrolment into AR by ARTC & S on physical reporting of candidates for training.  If any of these certificates on verification are found to be fake, the candidates are dismissed from service,” PRO stated. On being inquired about details of Chakma and Nepali candidates, he stated that as per military law confidentiality need to be maintained and therefore there detail bio-data cannot be furnished.

Meanwhile, today members of Arunachal Students Union of Shillong( ASUS) meet Colonel Mahinder Singh at Assam Rifle headquarter, Shillong to lodge protest against recruitment of Chakma refugees and Nepali citizen under Arunachal ST quota. While talking over phone, General Secretary of ASUS Kabak Himalaya informed that Assam Rifles authorities gave them patient hearing. “Col Mahinder appreciated our concerned and said we have every right to fight for cause of tribal people. He said AR will look into the concern raised by people of Arunachal and will dismiss those candidates if their certificates are found to be fake,” informed Kabak. He further added that ASUS had filed an RTI seeking detail information in this regard.

Though Assam Rifles clarify that they did not commit any mistake but they are not sharing the detailed bio-data of Chakma and Nepali citizen. If they do not share, how will people come to know from where those Chakma and Nepali citizens manage to get ST certificates?

Now people of Arunachal are pinning hope on the report sought by Governor JJ Singh in this regard. The truth need to be told and Assam Rifles cannot hide truth using military rule as an excuse.

 

Siang belt achieves a milestone in rubber plantation

Prafulla Kaman

RUKSIN, Feb 8: Rubber plantation widely considered as money spinner has found its mooring in Arunachal Pradesh, particularly in the Siang belt.

After the ambitious rubber plantation project launched by the Rubber Board India (RBI) in 1994 to cover the hilly terrains of the state, the project activities gained its momentum in the region and Siang belt now achieved its first milestone by covering thousand hectares of land under rubber plantation.

The land locked state, bereft of any small scale industry, now eyes on rubber based industry to encourage local youth for self-employment. It is worth mentioning here that the RBI had set up a field station at Ruksin town in East Siang district for supervision of the plantation activities in the region including Dhemaji district of Assam.  The RBI Jorhat regional office under the Union Ministry of Industry and Commerce launched a rubber plantation project in the state and achieved its success story by developing thousands hectares of plantation in the three Siang district and Lower Divang Valley.

The RBI Jorhat Regional Manager, M P Monilal had visited the rubber plantation in East Siang and other location during early 2008. He had assured the rubber growers of imparting rotational training besides other financial assistances.

Officials said that out of the targeted 672 hectares area, almost 550 hectares rubber plantation has been achieved in East Siang district. An average 65 tones rubber worth Rs. 1.25 crore (Rs 190 per kg) was produced from the region last year and supplied to a Guwahati based marketing agency.

“Rubber plantation activities are gradually spreading its tentacles in remote area of Nari Koyu, Likabali, Along, Daporijo and parts of Lower Dibang Valley besides Dhemaji and Gogamukh in Assam. Plantation growth has been increased by 40 percent this year  and 100 percent achievement is expected next year”, said Bhaskar Ghose, the field officer of Ruksin field station.

Ghose further informed that the RBI also developed three “Commercial Nurseries”, one in each at Laimekuri, Telam, and Jamjing. It has also developed five “Smoke Houses”(for drying the compressed rubber sheets) at Depi basti-2, New Deka-1, Laimekuri (Majulipur)-1 and another at Nari.

Rubber plants have matured in 400 hectares at Sikabamin, Ngorlung, Niglok, Bilat, Nari, Telam, Seren and Dipa in East Siang district and in Dhemaji (Assam), while plantation in other areas are progressing rapidly.

Inspired by the success story of rubber cultivation in the Siang belt of Arunachal and hilly terrains of the region, the rubber growers of the area have demanded setting up a rubber industry in East Siang district for commercialization of the rubber products.

 

Mechukha set to become a hot tourist spot

Correspondent

AALO, Feb 8: Mechukha, the abode of pristine natural scenic beauty with snow capped mountains and the serpentine river Yargepchu, is all set to become a hot tourist spot as Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has assured to develop the area by taking up all necessary steps to make it a tourist hub.

He was addressing the mammoth gathering at Samden Choegal (Gompa) on the auspicious occasion of Sonam Losar of Memba community at Mechukha yesterday evening.  

Tuki said that he would take up the matter with central Govt for necessary assistance to develop the area a attractive tourist destination.

“My Govt is giving top priority on development of tourism sector in the state”, said Tuki and asked local MLA-cum-Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism Pasang Dorjee Sona to prepare proposal in this regard. He also suggested Sona to organize at least a tourism festival every year at Mechukha starting from next year to woo local as well as foreign tourists for which he assured every possible held from his side. Tuki also informed that his Govt is planning to introduce tourist cab (taxi) for the benefit of unemployed youths of area.

Tuki also announced 1000 blankets for the poor and elderly people of the area and asked the local administration to prepare the list of eligible beneficiary with the help of PRI leaders.

While wishing people on Losar, Tuki appealed to people to follow the teachings of Lord Buddha and to maintain peace and harmony among all tribes and communities in the state.

Member of Parliament Takam Sanjoy while echoing Tuki for development of tourism in Mechukha, assured to take up the matter with central govt. He suggested the state govt to initiate the necessary steps so that he could take up the matter in central level.

Wishing the Memba community on the occasion of Losar festival, he exhorted them to preserve and protect their aged old culture and religion. Further, he advised the students and youths of the area to concentrate in their studies stating there is no shortcut to success. He contributed Rs 10 lakh for renovation of the Gompa.

Mesmerized by the scenic beauty of Mechukha on his maiden visit to the place, Tourism Minister Pema Khandu promised to approve any proposal that comes from his deputy P D Sona. However, he urged the people of area to maintain indigenous identity even in naming important places, historical and religious sites.

Local MLA expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for emphasizing tourism particularly in Mechukha area and he also hoped that Mechukha will become a much sought tourist destination in days to come.

The evening was marked by the colourful cultural night by as many as 17 local cultural troupes besides few from outside the state.

Earlier, Mechukha ADC G Poyom unfurled the festival flag amid huge gathering of revelers. In his speech, Poyom exhorted the people not to be influenced by external cultural religious invasion and to maintain one’s own aged old culture and tradition. The day-long programme was marked with colourful cultural representations by various troupes besides few folk dances.

 

Red Rockfest at Roing, Umbrey calls for awareness in village level

ROING, Feb 8: Red Rockfest, a musical concert being organized by the Arunachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society to create awareness on HIV/AIDS reached Roing yesterday.

The campaign was formally declared open by local MLA Laeta Umbrey in presence of thousands of  people, especially youth at  Roing general ground. Alien Gods, the star performer of multimedia campaign, rocked the young audience with its metal numbers. Local Rock Bands from the Roing town, Acoustica, The Chaos and Tribal Theory also mesmerized the audience with their performance.

Speaking on the occasion, Laeta Umbrey said the HIV/AIDS has caused concern not only for the people of state  but for the whole world.

Lauding the Multi Media Campaign, which is designed to attract youths to spread message against HIV/AIDS, Umbrey said small mistake of youth can destroy not only their life, but their family and society as a whole. Two persons were detected with HIV in the district which may multiply, if corrective measures are not taken at appropriate time, he said. He also advocated for mass awareness on HIV/AIDS in village level. ZPM Chiliko Meto in his speech, urged every educated youth to shoulder responsibility  and disseminate information about HIV/AIDS to uneducated youths and people at their villages.

Earlier, DMO Dr. A Yirang, informed the mode of transmission of HIV/AIDS disease. He said knowledge about AIDS is the only way of prevention. He also urged upon the gathering not to avoid AIDS infected people but to avoid AIDS.

DD (IEC) Tasor Pali, dwelt on the objectives of Red Rockfest. He said the program aims at bringing awareness between the 15-39 years age group as 60 per cent of cases detected in Arunachal Pradesh falls under this group.

SDO W.Tikhak and Sr. Gynecologist Dr. I. Pulu also spoke on the occasion.  DIPRO

 

The Ledo Assam Sahitya Sabha session-an eye opener

Pekba Ringu

A man was carrying his daughter on his shoulders. He was pointing the different stalls to her and she was also looking at them with great interest. I could see the father – daughter duo smiling excitedly.

In the ground, people were milling around happily. A general atmosphere of revelry and celebration permeated in the air.

To me, it looked like a huge Durga puja crowd visiting the puja pandal. It didn’t appear at all like a crowd going to attend a literary meet.

And that too, the sitting of the 7th special annual session of the ASS (Assam Sahitya Sabha). But in fact, Ledo, near Margherita town of upper Assam and the birthplace of Indian tea and petroleum industry was the proud host of the special annual session from 31st January to 5th of February 2012.  I was in for more eye popping surprises. The 7000 capacity main auditorium was packed with literary enthusiasts. During day time, the main literary events were held there. In evening, the same stage reverberated with musical and other cultural extravaganzas.

Simultaneously, the adjacent ‘Mamoni Roisom Goswami book fair’ with more than 150 stalls was drawing a huge crowd. And just beside the book fair, people were making a bee line to visit the science exhibition containing more than 200 stalls.

In case one was hungry, one could go to the huge dining hall nearby with the capacity to feed 2000 people at one time. And all for free. It was a self-help effort which was managed by the public of Ledo. At an average, the dining hall was feeding around 8000 people per day - breakfast, lunch and dinner combined.  

And for the connoisseurs of food, there was the ethnic food stall (more than 350 in number) offering various delicacies of the different local population. Ledo, derived from the Singpho word Lido meaning construction of boat, houses people of diverse communities e.g. Assamese,Tai Ahoms, Tai Phakes, Singphos, Khamptis, Sema Nagas, Tangsas, Nepalis, Bengalis, Bhojpuris and other various communities.

Add to it the following facts. In order to host the session, 42 sub-committees were formed. More than 700 local volunteers and 1500 police personals from various parts of Assam (like Goalpara) were brought to man the session and traffic. 1500 delegates from 1200 branches of Sahitya Sabha from 27 districts of Assam were accommodated in 15 different camps. In addition, 3000 special invitees from different parts of the country (including north-east) and abroad attended the meet. All at the expense of Sahitya Sabha.

My jaw literally dropped when I was told that the Assam government had already spent six crores for the construction of basic amenities like roads, electricity, accommodation, venue construction etc. for the Sahitya Sabha. One could say, Ledo was really spruced up for the great show.    

Another two crores were sanctioned by Pradyut Bordoloi, the local MLA and President of the reception committee. Incidentally, he also holds the cabinet portfolio of minister power, industries and commerce.

I was told that the people of Assam consider it a great honour to host the Sahitya Sabha sittings in their own hometown. In fact, there is a great clamor for hosting the session in one’s own place, the way the different countries of the world compete amongst themselves for hosting the Olympic Games. It is one of the events in Assam where the government and the local public take equal responsibility and zeal in hosting the program.

But here in Arunachal, it’s just the other way around. Leave aside government funds; even the response of the public is pathetic. I’m more used to seeing empty chairs and a yawning public in our literary meets here.

But in the Ledo session, it was a most attentive and appreciative audience I’ve ever come across in any literary meet. And Arunachal was the main topic of interest in the recently concluded Ledo session.

For the first time, a record breaking 20 member APLS (Arunachal Pradesh Literary Society) team led by Y.D.Thongchi, President APLS, attended the session on special invitation from ASS. The other members were Tagang Taki, renowned Adi author, Kengsang Kenglang, revered Tangsa writer cum poet, Nanni Dai, editor, Echo of Arunachal, Bengia Hemanta, veteran Arunachali singer, Kaling Borang, renowned poet & writer, Girin Tamuli, esteemed Adi poet & writer, Tokong Pertin, Director trade & commerce, Tage Tada, Director Research, Batem Pertin, Deputy Director Research, Bengia Tab, branch manager SBI, Nabam Tarang, prominent Nyishi poet cum singer, Hage D.Appa, famous Arunachali actor, Nabajit Deori, esteemed Assamese poet & writer, Inumoni Bora, noted Assamese poet, Jamuna Bini, Asst. Prof.(Hindi), Bompi Riba, Asst. Prof.(English), both from RGU, Annu Basar, first Arunachali Urdu poet, Dogin Tabyo, Arunachali cinematographer & Pekba Ringu, writer.

Kengsang Kenglang set the motion of the sabha on the first day by inaugurating the special session for children where the budding young writers interacted in one to one discussion with him. The same stage was set to fire by Bengia Hemanta’s rendition of Bhupen Hazarika numbers later in the evening where he was invited as a chief guest to inaugurate the cultural function in memory of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika.

On the second day, Thongchi chaired ‘Ramdhenu,’ a special program where poets & writers from various parts of north-east (including Arunachal), India & Nepal participated. He stressed the need for strengthening the age old tie of love & good will between Arunachal and Assam in particular and the north-east and other parts of India in general. He further commented, “Bhupen Hazarika is not only Assam’s son, but of Arunachal as well; His love and selfless contribution towards the development & enrichment of Arunachal’s socio-cultural scenario will always be remembered by us,” to a thunderous applause.    

More claps followed as Batem Pertin sang Bhupen Hazarika’s evergreen number “Buku Hum hum kore,” to a delighted audience.

The audience listened in rapt attention to Tagang Taki, a compatriot of Lummer Dai, who delved on the urgent need of bringing out a good book on history of Assam & north-east. This is the first appearance of the famed writer of ‘Border eme’, ‘Robo aru Nibor hadhu’, to the Assamese public after a long gap of more than 25 years.

The presentations of  Tage Tada,  Kaling Borang, Girin Tamuly, Inumoni Bora, Jamuna Bini, Bompi Riba & Pekba Ringu were also very much liked by the appreciative audience.

The third day’s session started with prominent personalities & invitees paying homage to the creator of ‘Prithibir Hanhi’, Luminous Lummer Dai where Nanni Dai, widow of late Dai was the Chief guest. My heart swelled in pride as Rongbong Terang, President, ASS,Paramananda Rajbongshi, GS,ASS, Pradyut Bordoloi, Minister Power, Industries & commerce and others joined in to pay obeisance to late Dai.

The listeners literally ‘jhoom utha’ when Annu Basar recited his shayaris. Also Nabajit Deori’s poems touched the hearts of the audience.

Other highlights of the day were the huge & resplendent cultural procession by the different communities of Ledo & other parts of Assam. And the other attraction was, of course, the presence of the Governor of Assam in the evening’s proceedings.

The biggest excitement of the day was the visit by Dr. S. Liezietsu, minister higher education & town planning of Nagaland. He presented Rs. Two crores to ASS for rebuilding the old ASS Bhavan at Kohima in presence of a rapturous crowd . Interestingly, the ASS Bhavan at Kohima is the first ASS building to be established by its first President Raibahadur Padmanath Gohain Baruah in 1895 who was the Head master of Kohima School in the later part of 19th century.

By the time the program ended, more than five lakhs people had already visited the Ledo session. That is roughly half of the population of Arunachal.

As we were returning on our way back to Itanagar, laden with the pleasant memories of Ledo & the wonderful hospitality of the local population, one of my colleagues commented, “We still have a lot to learn from them.”

I also nodded wholeheartedly. Yes indeed! We really have a lot to learn from Assam.

 

A success story of a multi-faceted teacher

Denhang Bosai

PK Singh, senior teacher of Biology working in government higher secondary school, Khonsa is a man of multi-faceted personalities. Though he is a teacher, he works as a factotum and is truly an asset for the school and Tirap district. In 1985, Singh was commissioned by Air Force Administrative College, Coimbatore as NCC [Air Wing] officer and since then he has been looking after the NCC activities of the school. The NCC troop of the school has been declared on three occasions as the best troop in the combined annual training camp at Jorhat in Assam, thanks to the sincere guidance of Singh. The troop has also brought many laurels for the school and the district. PK Singh is the district resource officer under Adolescence Education Programme and regularly imparts training to the nodal teachers and peer educators of Tirap district. He is the master trainer in the department of Environment and Forest and trains the teachers of the district under Centre of Environmental Education for eco club. During the Assembly and Parliamentary elections, Singh was appointed as a core trainer for the presiding and polling officers which he discharged with great success.

PK Singh joined the education department as a JT in 1978 and sincerely served in far-flung places like Yealiang and Hawaai circle in Lohit district of Arunachal. In 1983 he was transferred to government higher secondary school, Khonsa and since then he has been rendering his invaluable service there. Apart from his effective teaching, Singh is deeply involved in popularizing science and scientific temperament among the students and organizes science seminars, science exhibitions and science congress from time to time. The students of the school have represented at national level seminars held at Guwahati, Hyderabad and Bhopal under Singh’s able guidance. Indeed PK Singh is a man for all seasons and all trades. His eldest son who was also one of his students at Govt. HS School, Khonsa is now working in the US as a full-time Researcher. This year PK Singh was conferred Gold Medal by the government of Arunachal Pradesh for his meritorious services. May his tribe multiply!

 

CM visits border area, assures ITBP of help

M. Doley

AALO, Feb 8: Chief Minister Nabam Tuki visited Yorlung, the 2nd last out post of Indo-China border near Mechukha along with MP Takam Sanjoy and Tourism Minister Pema Khandu to take stock of the ground realities along Indo-China border.

Yorlung is located at an altitude of more than 8,900 feet above the sea level.

During the course of interaction with dignitaries, the ITBP sub-inspector Rajendra Paul detailed the CM about the present situation including the problems and difficulties being faced by the jawans in manning the border.

After a patient hearing, the Chief Minister assured the ITBP to take up their grievances, specially road communication with the Central Govt. Tuki lauded the role of ITBP jawans popularly known as Him Veer for their valiant service in guarding the Nation that too at the place where the temperature recorded below the freezing point . The Chief Minister, however, suggested the ITBP to put forward their grievances in written so that he could take up the matter with the Centre at the earliest.

ITBP sub-inspector Paul informed that the Indo-China border at Mechuka is fully secured and there has been no any encroachment since 1962 from other side of the border. 20 ITBP deployed at Mechuka are fully prepared to thwart any external aggressive, he added.

While expressing their grievances to this reporter, Paul urged the authorities concern to improve the BSNL network  service so that the jawans stay connected with their family.

Later, the Chief Minister and his entourage visited historical Hanuman Mandir and Gurudwara near Mechuka and assured to develop the places as tourist interest.

 

Weavers’ credit card scheme awareness camp

ITANAGAR, Feb 8: Textile and Handicrafts department, Yupia conducted a one day exhibition cum awareness camp on weavers’ credit card scheme at Naharlagun today.

Textile and Handicrafts Director Khoda Ruja briefed about the benefits of the scheme to weavers on the occasion.

Textile and Handicrafts assistant Director, Yupia TC Kapa encouraged the participants and assured to extend all possible help in submission and obtaining bank loan.

Textile and Handicrafts assistant Director (RDC), Doimukh Toko Okey also encouraged all the weavers to follow the required formalities for applying weavers credit card scheme for seeking financial assistance.

Lead Bank Manager SS Deb also spoke on the occasion.

 

Orientation programme

ITANAGAR, Feb 8:  Two days orientation programme on capacity building of school management and development committee members was conducted at Ziro on February 7 and 8.

Addressing the gathering Deputy Commissioner Nila Mohanan advised the members of SMDC to play vital role for successful implementation of RMSA programme.

DDSE Tarh Tuglo appealed to the principals and members of SMDC to cooperate with the district mission office for successful implementation, supervising and monitoring of all programme of RMSA.

 

Immunization Week launched in Tirap

ITANAGAR, Feb 8: Along with the rest of the North Eastern states ‘Immunization week’ was today launched all over Tirap District. The Govt. of India has declared 2012-13 as “Year of Intensification of Routine Immunization” in order to reduce the Infant Mortality Rate and Maternal Mortality Ratio in the country. Immunization Week is one of the strategies to comprehend these Govt. of India initiatives. The objectives of ‘Immunization Week’ are to increase immunization coverage of all vaccines under National Immunization Schedule and importantly to reach the hard to reach areas of the district.

During this week long programme children under 2 years and pregnant women shall be given all the required vaccines at door step. The Health workers like Health Assistant, ANM and GNM who are the backbone in implementing the programme has been deployed at various hard to reach and underserved areas, DRCHO, Tirap Dr.K.Perme.

‘Immunization week’ shall be carried out in the District from 8th of every month till May2012.

 

Tsering refutes allegations

ITANAGAR, Feb 8: Dirang MLA Phurpa Tsering has refuted the allegation regarding disbursement of compensation to the villagers of Munna camp under Dirang circle as false and fabricated.

Reacting to the allegation published in this daily on Feb 5 that fund provided by Patel Engineering Ltd.  under local area development fund has been disbursed as compensation to the villagers of Munna camp, the local MLA clarified that the hydro project taken up by Patel Engineering Ltd was scrapped after he got elected. He had also facilitated a series of meeting of flood affected villagers and Patel Engineering Ltd and convinced the latter to disburse Rs 1.6 crore as compensation based on severity of the destruction of the properties of poor helpless villagers.

He further clarified that the money was meant for rehabilitation of devastated villagers which has been dully and properly disbursed to the affected villagers.

The MLA further appealed to the people not to be swayed away by such false allegation and advised the mischief mongers to desist from spreading such concocted allegation else he would file  defamation suit.

Meanwhile, Dirang block Zilla Parishad Members Dor Tsering informed that law and order had drastically improved in the circle for the past two years after the election of the new MLA. “Crime rate is almost nil, only some vested individuals are creating mischief by spreading false allegation regarding rising crime rate at Dirang”, they opined adding that such mischief had hurt the sentiment of local people and also malign the image of Dirang circle.

 

Association reacts to students’ statement

ITANAGAR, Feb 8: The All Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Employees Welfare Association (AAPSTEWA) and staff of state transport service have strongly reacted to the statement given by student union of Dera Natung Govt. College on Tuesday demanding termination of APSTS bus driver involved in road accident on 4th November night. In a release association has stated that without knowing the truth, people should not make their own conclusion and make such illogical demand.

“We appeal and request the student Union of Dera Natung Govt. College not to make any unnecessary comment which may aggravate the matter. Rather they should come forward to cooperate to defuse the matter. Demand for termination is not right at this juncture. Let law take its own course of action and if mistakes are found by law enforcement agency after investigating, appropriate action can be taken,” AAPSTEWA stated.

Further they appealed everyone including NGOs, associations, political parties and student unions to cooperate with the transport department as it is a public property. “Every time there is minor issue, APST properties become soft targets. If this trend of destruction of public properties continues, one day no single bus will remain with department,” association added. They also  added in case of accident involving APSTS buses, blame always goes to department.

“Nobody likes accident and we always feel bad for the family member of accident victims. But retaliation against us in the form of violence is really beginning to affect the confidence of all the staff of department. This has to stop,” AAPSTEWA continued. They have demanded for exemplary punishment to those involved  in arson incident of November 4 night.

 

FCI consultative committee calls for proper supply of foodgrains

ITANAGAR, Feb 8: Keeping in mind the guidelines issued by the Union Ministry of consumer affair, food and public distribution to ensure supply of quality foodgrains, the Food Corporation of India(FCI) Consultative Committee Arunachal Pradesh held a preliminary discussion on the functioning of the targeted public distribution system recently. During the discussion, it is found that beneficiaries under the Antodaya, APL, BPL quotas, particularly in  Kimin and Doimukh area are deprived of food grains since November last year, said consultative committee member and NCP state unit president Ngurang Pinch in a release. Pinch appealed to both FCI and state Govt to take remedial measures for prompt delivery of PDS food grains to the beneficiaries. Despite nearer to FCI depot, the rural people of Doimukh and Kimin are deprived of foodgrains, Pinch said and wondered what would be the fate of PDS beneficiaries of far flung areas in other districts.

Pinch further informed that the FCI committee will visit all the FCI depots in the state soon to assess the PDS functioning as per the guidelines of the Centre.

 

Transfer demanded

ITANAGAR, Feb 8: United Nyishi Organization (UNO) has demanded immediate transfer of Yazali PWD division executive engineer alleging his involvement in misappropriation of fund.

In a memorandum submitted to Chief Minister, the UNO claimed that the EE has mishandled various projects and schemes of the division.

Accusing him of non-cooperation with local people, especially with development agents like PR leaders, the organization further said, the officer is always found to be absent from his office and does not maintain transparency in official work.

 

Students appeal for relief

ITANAGAR: All Lower Subansiri Students’ Union (ALSSU) the apex student body of the district urged the authority concern to provide immediate relief to the victim of the Feb 3 fire at Rakha Village, upper Yachuli at the earliest.  Convener, ALSSU Tanya Agu said that the fire led to the loss of many livestock, assets, cash and local ornaments as it completely gutted down 12 houses.

It thanked Zilla Chairperson Likha Tongum and Deputy Commissioner, Lower Subansiri Nila Mohanan, for visiting the site and providing relief materials to the victims. ALSSU also extend its thanked to MLA Bamang Felix for providing financial aid to the victim.

 

Arrest the culprit

ITANAGAR, Feb 8: Sub-Divisional Officer Telecom BSNL, Seppa in a complaint letter to Officer In-Charge, Police Station, Seppa said that some unknown miscreants has once again cut the live Telephone cable from main road to district hospital line and government KG school Type-IV colony last night.

It urged the Officer in-charge, Police Station, Seppa to investigate matter and nab the culprit.

Meanwhile, the BSNL authority appealed to the public to bear the inconvenience and added that restoration work would take a week’s time due to non-availability of required cable.

 

Penalty imposed on teacher

AALO Feb 8: A meeting was held in the office Chamber of the DDSE, Aalo on February 6 last to bring out an amicable solution regarding destruction and damage to a room attached Class room converted into teacher quarter which was occupied and vacated by Geeta Kumari, JT (SC.), Govt. Middle School, Dego after 7 years of stay on her transfer to Govt. Middle School, Liru of Likabali town.

A complaint in this connection was lodged by Headmaster and Chairman of School Management Committee Govt. Middle School, Dego on  Dec 12, 2011 and a showcause notice was served to Kumari, on account of her intentional destruction of four walls of backside building which was constructed by SMC for Kitchen and toilet purpose. The demolition includes uprooting of Electric wiring/window net/CGI roofing etc and carried all those materials to Likabali without the knowledge of SMC.

As a result, the Ex-Chairman, Present Chairman of SMC accompanied by Anchal Chairperson, Gram Chairman, Women representative, Headmaster, Teachers demanded drastic action against defaulter with the imposition of fine amounting to Rs. 46, 000  only for performing purification ritual as per Galo social customary law. The reply or explanation made by  Geeta Kumari in response to the showcause notice served by the DDSE was not satisfactory and therefore, a sum of Rs. 17, 000  in place of Rs. 46, 000 demanded by SMC/HM has to paid as penalty by Kumari for her anti-social, anti institution act done to this school.

This amount has been fixed purely in accordance with the voucher incurred for reconstruction of damaged building by SMC/HM, Govt. Middle School Dego. The said penalty amount will be deducted from her salary for the month of January 2012 which was not prepared/withheld by the DDSE after receiving the complaint and show cause notice served.

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

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• Red Rockfest at Roing, Umbrey calls for awareness in village level
• The Ledo Assam Sahitya Sabha session-an eye opener
• A success story of a multi-faceted teacher
• CM visits border area, assures ITBP of help

 

Decrease in country’s forest cover

According to the Forest Survey of India (FSI) report 2011, 12 states/UTs mainly the North East states have shown decrease in forest cover to the extent of 867sqkm. 15 states have registered aggregate increase of 5000sqkm in their forest cover with Punjab leading with increase of 100sqkm.

Decline in Forest cover of the North East is particularly due to prevailing practice of shifting cultivation in this region.

Madhya Pradesh has the largest forest cover in the country at 77,700 square km followed by Aruncachal Pradesh at 67, 410 square km. In terms of percentage of forest cover in relation to total geographical area, Mizoram tops with 90.68 per cent followed by Lakshadweed with 84.56 per cent. The total growing stock of India’s forests and trees outside forests is estimated as 6047.15 million cu m i.e. 4498.73 million cu m inside the recorded forest area and 1548.42 million cu m outside the recorded forests.

The Forest and Tree cover of the country is 78.29 million ha, which is 23.81 per cent of the geographical area of the country. In comparison to the 2009 assessment, there is a decrease of 367 square km in country’s forest cover.

The Report 2011 adds three new chapters that are of crucial importance in the present national and global worldview about forests. These are: a detailed assessment of bamboo resources, a production-consumption assessment of wood based on data stock in India’s forests reported under the NATCOM project. The inclusion of these three new chapters makes the Forests Report a path breaking advance over its previous editions.

Where money is idolised

Dear Editor,

The anti-corruption movement launched by Anna Hazare has been killed by the Indian Union ministers and the destructive advisers who surround them. Congratulations at destroying this movement launched by enemies of modern, rising super-power, utilizing hydro-power, largest military power, world-power India.

Anna Hazare should know that corruption cannot be done away with in a country where money is idolised in the form of a goddess called Lakshmi. Morever there are three communities in Western India---- Gujarati, Marwari and Sindhi, from the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan and Sindh (now in Pakistan), who are into the business of thug trade and thug commerce since many centuries. These merchant communities donot do farming and agriculture and wherever they migrate, these three communities carry the evil of corruption and teach all the others to cheat and worship plastic money like mad people.

Since  1947, all subsequent movements of self-determination like the Tamil Elam, Khalistan, Assam, Nagalim, Kashmir, Naxalpantha, Sampurna Kranti etc have been mercilessly thrashed by the high caste Hindi rulers sitting in Delhi north-block. Anna Hazare should have known this.

Just as Anna Hazare and Indian army cannot understand the emotions of a Kashmiri, so also a Kashmiri cannot understand what all this astronomical 2G, CWG scams are in Delhi.

With divisive brains like that of mainland Indians, Anna's movement was bound to fail. In the end only corruption survives.

David Bordoloi

Chiring Sapori,

Dibrugarh.

 

 

Waste and twin capital

Dear Editor,

Few days back, a concerned citizen pointed out through your esteem daily about the careless attitude of UD department in disposing the wastes generated in the twin capital city of Itanagar and Naharlagun. The result is disturbing and for everyone to see at Itanagar-Holongi road.

It is high time that systematic method of collecting, dumping and disposal of wastes is necessarily adopted for healthy and clean environment.

Besides, the process of transportation of wastes is most unhygienic. Travelling behind such waste loaded trucks is so irritating because of flying wastes/objects.

I appeal to the concern department through your esteem daily to cover the wastes by tarpaulin during transportation. Such arrangement is also required in adherence to order of court which may please be highlighted in your dailies.

Your,

Concern citizen

 

 

Reservation and APST

Dear Editor,

Despite being a tribal state, most of the posts reserved for our state in central jobs are categorized according to the central reservation rule. So, most of the posts meant for our state goes out in the open category, due to which lesser number of APST people get recruited in central jobs and more non-APST people gets recruited on those seats which are actually meant for us.

This is also one of the main reasons for unemployment in our state, because most of the posts meant for us go in vain. This issue has already been raised by me and many people through this daily that our Govt. should look into this.

Recently, there was an advertisement for various non-Teaching posts in RGU. And as usual, it was very surprising that most of the posts were "unreserved". Similarly, even though we are host state for NERIST, but still we have least job opportunity and student reservations in NEE-I, II and III. Also, we know that even in some well known MHRD run Colleges like NIT, the host state enjoys 30% reservations; I don't know if it is maintained in NIT Arunachal.

Even in central entrance exams, the seats that are reserved for our state are categorized according to the central reservation rule, due to which lesser APST students get selected paving the way of selection for non-APST students.

So, GoAP should take this seriously.  I'd like to appeal all the Student Unions and other organizations to raise voice against such issues, instead of barking unnecessarily. Moreover, I wish best to the UAEA for their fight against corruption and injustice.

Yours

Ngilyang Richo

NIT Patna

 

 

 

Public transport

Dear Editor,

One wonder why the public wrath was targeted at State Transport only. The barbaric act of burning down the APST buses should be condemned by all. It’s not only disturbing to the transport employee but more to the poor public, who use these vehicles.

In this hour of crisis, I do not find logic to the proposed Chakka Bandh by Transport Employee, which would create more inconvenience to the general public.

The culprits will move freely laughing at the public waiting for bus at the stands.

Apart from Bandh and Chakka Bandh, is there no other way to protest? Though we are with you, we would be one suffering in case of bandhs.

Yours,

Poor Public

 

 

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