February  14

Mechukha -- God’s own abode needs urgent Govt attention

M Doley

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush green pine groove and beautiful landscape, Mechukha in West Siang district is a perfect tourist destination. Visitors, including from abroad, say: “The scenic beauty of Mechukha is similar to that of Switzerland.”

But the God’s own abode is still waiting for Govt’s attention to develop it a tourist hotspot. During his recent visit to Mechukha, Tourism Minister Pema Khandu told that he would approve whatever proposal comes from local MLA cum Parliamentary Secretary (Tourism) P D Sona without a second thought for development of tourism in Mechukha in particular.

Sona has been given independent charge of the tourism sector and he is free to take up the matter with the higher authority, the minister told this reporter in a brief interaction recently at Yorlung, the second last post of Indo-China border near Mechukha.

Echoing the tourism minister, Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and MP Takam Sanjoy, who also visited Mechukha on the occasion of Sonam Losar, said, they are taking up the matter very seriously and would initiate all necessary steps for promotion of tourism in Mechukha.

Presently, there is no proper accommodation facility in Mechukha for the visiting tourists. There is only one hotel in entire township with limited accommodation facility. The newly built tourist lodge is yet to be opened for the tourists. Surprisingly, a primary school is being run from a tourist lodge built in the heart of Mechukha township while another one adjacent to it was lying abandoned in a ruined condition.

“The school has been shifted to the tourist house as the building had been lying unused for many years,” local people say. Once proper accommodation and other necessary facilities, like regular power supply, internet etc, are provided, tourist would start arriving Mechukha in large number, they feel.

The entire Mechukha township has been reeling under darkness due to acute shortage of power since last several months.

Mechukha needs 100 kw (approx) power but the nearby mini hydel project is generating power much below its capacity. A departmental official says, “it is because of shortage in river water.” But local people rubbish the accusation saying the department concerned is not maintaining the hydro power channel properly.

In Mechukha, the mainstay of local people is agriculture. The soil there is not suitable for paddy and other agricultural activities except Millet and few varieties of vegetables. However, the villagers are now taking up kiwi and apple cultivation in small quantity. Since there is no other avenue for income generation, many young men and women even elderly people are engaging themselves in road construction work being carried out by Border Roads Organization (BRO) between Mechukha and Tato.

These energetic youths, who understand the dignity of labour, could certainly change the socio-economic scenario of the area, if they are provided employment opportunity, which may come from tourism sector.

A sincere effort by the state government towards promotion of tourism in Mechukha can change the fortune of more than 8000 people by generating self-employment through tourism related activities like tour operator, home stay, eco-tourism etc in village level.

The approximate travel time from Itanagar to Mechukha via Aalo is 16 hours. Mechukha is situated at an altitude of more than 8,500 feet above sea level.

 

Holistic State Sports Policy on the anvil: Tuki

Jairampur blessed with development packages

Tom Simai

with input from CM cell

JAIRAMPUR, Feb 13: Amidst thunderous cheers and applauds, the most awaited sporting carnival of Changlang district, ‘Geo-Enpro Changlang District’ T20 Night Cricket Tournament 2012 was declared open by Chief Minister Nabam Tuki here today in a spectacular inaugural ceremony. This was his maiden trip to the region after taking over the office of the CM.

Tuki who is on a whirlwind tour of state today landed in picturesque Jairampur town situated in Changlang district. Only into his fourth month as the Chief Minister, Tuki has almost toured 70 percent of the state.

While addressing the large crowd, Tuki spoke in details about sports and his vision for Arunachal.  “Give me some time, and then ask me what I did for my state. I will come back to tell you what I did, “said Chief Minister.

“This is a novel and appreciable initiative by the organizers to hold a night cricket tournament in a township far away from the state capital. I hope it would be as successful as the one held last year,” CM stated.  Tuki, a die-hard sports lover, informed the people that incidentally he was the President of the Arunachal Cricket Association (ACA) and was extensively thankful to the organizers of the tournament for promoting the game in a remote and far off area.  “You would be happy to know that ACA has now been affiliated to the Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI) and therefore cricket has a bright future in the state,” he informed.

Reiterating the focus of the government on promoting and developing sports, the Chief Minister said that a holistic State Sports Policy was on anvil that would cater to the needs of infrastructure, activities and facilities besides rewards and recognition to meritorious sports persons.

He pointed that his government has already resolved to keep 10 per cent of jobs reserved under the Sports Quota for recruitment in the state police force.

Further, he informed the government has earmarked Rs 20 crore for creating sports infrastructure like outdoor and indoor stadiums across the length and breadth of the state.

Tuki said sports can be a great messenger for peace and brotherhood while developing into a lucrative industry. He felt inclusive tournaments like the one in Jairampur have the power to keep the youths straying away from the mainstream.   

Quoting his practical mantra that ‘Peace begets development and development begets peace’ the Chief Minister called upon the youths to streamline their potentials. He said youths of today should not depend upon the government for employment but create self-employment avenues and become employers themselves.

“I envision an Arunachal where no one will be unemployed and no one will run after employment. Where there will be no employees but only employers!” he said.

On the developmental front of Changlang district, Tuki expressed faith on the leadership of local MLA and  Minister Setong Sena and said that with his experience and sincerity Sena could lead the district on the path of accelerated development.

Further speaking on the developmental activities he said, Jairampur-Nampong-Pangsau Pass will become an important economic hub once the border trade talks with the central government culminates, he informed.

Appealing for support in developmental activities, he added “in peace we will develop and promised all the hard works needed to develop the region.”

Advising to make the night tourney an annual event, he suggested other districts to follow suit. Healing the past week’s public uproar regarding the reservation in the police recruitment, he informed that the misunderstanding has been cleared, now the recruitment reservation is 100 per cent for the candidate of Tirap  and  Changlang districts for the proposed police battalion to be raised exclusively for the two districts.  

Citing the immense potential of the district in agriculture and horticulture fields, Tuki, on the other hand, assured government’s support to local tea cultivators, who are abundant in the district.

Responding to a memorandum submitted by local leaders of the area, the Chief Minister announced an amount of Rs 5 crore under NEC next year for construction of a stadium and another Rs 1 crore for construction of a convention hall in Jairampur sub-division.

To the demand for establishment of a polytechnic college at Jairampur and a nursing institute at Nampong, Tuki assured to take the matters under the PPP model next year while on creation of Circle Headquarters at Rima-Putok, Renuk, Longtoi-Lingkok and EAC Headquarter at Manmao, he said the demands would be placed before the Cabinet in its next sitting for discussion and consideration.

Tuki also released the calendar ‘Glimpses of Rural Rendezvous 2012’ and donated Rs 5 lakh to the organizing committee.

Agriculture and Horticulture Minister Setong Sena who is also local MLA assured the improvisation of agriculture by adopting new technology that will increase the products as well as generate employment. He also pointed out the significance of re-opening of border trade and emphasized on opening up of polytechnic institute in the district.

Earlier, in his address Speaker of the State Legislative Assembly Wangling Lowangdong lauded the organizing committee of the tournament and said it was an innovative idea ‘unheard of in the state’. He advised the participants to maintain sportsmanship spirit throughout the tournament.

“Winning or losing is secondary. What is to be remembered is that sports are the best medium to come together and spread the message of love and peace,” he said.

The Changlang District T20 Night Cricket is an 11 days mega event sponsored by the GeoEnpro oil company organized by the District Youth Congress with support from amazingarunachal.com and Namchik Valley Society for Eco-Tourism and Wildlife Conservation.

The fifteen teams vying for the coveted trophy are Elite Eighteens, Kharsang Kiwis, Nampong Normans, Changlang Challengers, Changlang Chargers, Jairampur Jaguars, Jairampur Jacks, Namphai Nomads, Bordumsa Bravados, Manmao Matadors, GeoEnpro Giants, Itanagar Insignias, Diyun Destructors and Rima Rangers.

 

International seminar on ‘Resources, Tribes and State’ begins

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: The three-day International Seminar on “Resources, Tribes and State” being organized by the Arunachal Institute of Tribal Studies (AITS) Rajiv Gandhi University at RGU premises commenced today amidst huge gathering of scholars and academicians across the world.

The seminar is second of its kind and it is being sponsored by Rajiv Gandhi University, ICSSR, New Delhi, NERC, Shillong and ASI, Kolkata.

Delivering his lecture on the topic of the seminar, former Vice Chancellor of NEHU and former Commissioner of SCs and STs, Government of India, Dr. B D Sharma said, “No tribal are poor in the society but unfortunately due to geographical isolation and various other factors, the tribal people were deprived of various facilities promised by the Constitution of India for providing better life.”

It is the farmers in India who are the top contributors to the economy, Dr. Sharma said while adding that natural resources of the forest belong to their own state. He said, it is the moral duty of the tribal people to protect their land from exploitation.

Dr. Sharma further highlighted some few lines from the book “Unbroken history of broken promises”, authored by him.

Prof. Bishnu Charan Barik, Vice Chancellor of Sambalpur University Odisha in his addressed lamented that the tribal people are sandwiched between the resources and the state.  

The tribal people in most of the remote areas of the states are yet to reap the benefit of development in real sense though the Govts are doing their best for upliftment of tribal people. He said tribal people become more vulnerable and  they are deprived of many developmental activities.  Prof. Kamal Kant Misra, Director, Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrhalaya, Bhopal and Director (i/c), Anthropological Survey of India, Kolkata delivering his keynote address  acknowledged that due to economical backwardness and geographical isolation, the tribal are deprived of many basic facilities.

Asserting that the issue of tribes is a matter of concern in today’s society, he said the “Adivasis” in India are multi-ethnic, multi-cultural but are deprived of many things, which should be addressed by various platforms.

Tribal are deeply linked with the natural resources, the government must not destroy it in the name of development, he said, adding all the tribal related laws of the Constitution are to be properly defined.

He, however, said, “things are changing gradually, the voice of the tribal community is  being honoured by the government and various laws that provide them to make their life and area a more better place to live in  are being enacted”. The alien system of government towards the tribal community should be changed. he added.

Prof Tamo Mibang, Director AITS, RGU, said the topic of the seminar have more relevant to the north eastern states as each state of the NE has its own resources, tradition and governance and  these have been inherited since time immemorial.

The People of the state know how to preserve and protect the natural resources very well.  The hospitality of the people here is also purely done in a traditional way, Prof Mibang asserted and urged  that  this spirit should be maintained and promoted for the preservation of our indigenous history.

He advocated that the process of utilizing state own resources should be for development. Resource and development agency should protect the tradition while exploring the potentials of the states. Exploitation of the natural resources should be checked and accountability should be maintained by the government, Prof Mibang said.

Steps should be initiated for accountability of the programmes being taken by the state as well as central governments. Well educated persons of the community must advocate  and urge the government for the preservation of the natural resources, he added.

RGU Vice Chancellor Prof David R Syiemlieh said the key issues regarding developments that required immediate attention by the government is to give focus in the North East region. The Adivasis - collective term for all the tribals, may not be a correct connotation for the tribal, instead they may be addressed by their own tribal community name. Prof. Syiemlieh further added that we all love to be named by our own identity. He said, such seminars will open up many windows for the welfare of the tribal societies including all its stakeholders like the state, resources and tribal.  

 M C Behra, Seminar Director said emotional bonding of all tribes of the state should be explored outside with positive attitude. Resources of the region should be utilized for the development of the state. People and the community should cooperate with the government for the exploration of the intact resources of the state, he said.

 

Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi begins at Bordumsa

BORDUMSA, Feb 13: The 28th  Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi, the main festival of Singpho tribe of Arunachal Pradesh begins  here  with traditional fervor and gaiety today.

Bordumsa Additional Deputy Commissioner, Kento Riba unfurled the festival flag amidst a mammoth gathering in the Singpho heritage ground.

While extending his sincere Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi greetings to the Singpho brethrens in particular and the people of Bordumsa sub-division in general  Riba dwelt on importance of the celebration. Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi is celebrated by the Singpho tribes annually in commemoration of their revered forefathers and praise for prosperity, unity and well being of their tribe and death of other living beings, he said. Further Riba emphatically said that transition in the form of development is must but at the same time we need to make sure our rich cultural ethos are equally preserved and passed on to the  younger generation. The infrastructure developmental activities undertaken at the initiation of the local MLA cum Parliamentary Secretary, Finance & IT also reflected in his speech.

He further appealed to one and all to shoulder responsibility of maintaining and safe-guarding the properties of Singpho Heritage ground at Bordumsa. “As the day is not very far, this Singpho heritage complex  shall be a favourable tourist destination,” he said. He also requested the local MLA to impress upon the state tourist department  to included Bordumsa Sub-Division in the Tourist Circuit Map of the state so as to facilitate the educated unemployed youth of Sub-Division to meaningfully engage themselves in tourism sector  for self-employment and revenue generation  which will  ultimately  accelerate development activities under the this border Sub-Division.

MLA Cum Parliamentary secretary, Finance & IT, C C Singpho, local heads of department, PRI members and galaxies of invitees and guest were present in the inaugural day of festival.

 

PPLAWC  reiterates demand

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: The Pare Project Land Affected Welfare Committee (PPLAWC) has strongly demanded NEEPCO authority to implement the demands placed by them. PPLAWC has expressed dissatisfaction over way NEEPCO authorities failed to take any action despite assurance given by the CMD of NEEPCO in presence of Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh on January 28 at official residence regarding appointment of project affected locals for C&D category. Of five, the first demands of committee include proper implementation of relief and rehabilitation scheme. The Relief and Rehabilitation is a scheme for the welfare of the affected people which is still pending to implemented, committee claimed. Further they alleged that no single step has been initiated to implement this welfare project from NEEPCO authority for which they have submitted several representations. They also called for immediate appointment in B, C & D categories job on regular basis as per the qualification of the affected educated youth. Committee also called for establishment of permanent ED(S&I) office at Doimukh and construction of suspension bridge (MV capacity) from Harahapa to Hoj village. Lastly PPLAWC has demanded construction of suspension bridge (mv capacity) and link road from Sopo to Likhi village.

If NEEPCO authority fail to meet our demand in short time then we shall starts democratic movement against pare Hydro Electric project undertaken by NEEPCO ltd at Doimukh, the committee warned.

 

People’s cooperation sought to exploit  hydro power in Tawang

TAWANG, Feb 13: A general meeting on development of Hydro power in Tawang district was held here at Kalawangpo Convention hall on February 12.  Near 12-hour long meeting has covered all aspects of power development in the district.

The meeting which was presided over the Tourism Minister Pema Khandu was attended by MLAs Tsewang Dondup and Jambey Tashi, Rev TG Rinpoche, Chairman Karmik and Adhyatmik Affairs and various power developers, officers, public leaders and general public.

Almost all the speakers in the meeting were unanimous to the point that hydro power potential of the district should not be wasted. They finally appealed to all to join hands in harnessing the hydro power in the district for betterment of district in particular and state as a whole.

The various power developers like NHPC, Bhilwara Energy Ltd, EDCL, SEW Energy which are active in the district including Sang Phuntso Chief Engineer DHPD (Monitoring) Govt of AP in their power point presentation informed about various benefits and development scopes from power project in the district. They stated that hydro power is the cleanest source of energy. The district has potential of hydro power which should not be wasted. Further, they informed that most of the projects proposed in district are run of the rivers which will have barrages instead of dams. The barrage is most environment friendly technology used for harnessing the power and its effect to environment is minimal. Very small portion of land are required for construction of barrages which are of small heights and problems of submergence and displacement is contained to a large extent, they added.

Speaking about the concern of earthquake proof of the structure,  the speakers stated that every project has to acquire clearance from National Committee on Seismic Design Parameters (NCSDP) -- an apex body consisting of experts for establishing project in the seismic zone. The committee give clearance to the projects only after detail study.

Quoting that some of the major dams in India has withstood earthquake of high magnitude, they urged not to be apprehensive about the projects structure. In the same line, the government has agencies to monitor the environment affects of the project. It is the responsibility of power developer to safe guard the environment and socio-economic aspect of the locals which shall be not compromised, they further added.

Various public leaders also spoke on the occasion. They appreciated the power developers for taking initiative in developing the district through their various projects. They expressed their full support and co-operation to the run of the river projects having small barrages instead of dams, however, urged to be active in solving the local problems. They emphasized not to hurt the religious sentiments and emotions of the locals while executing the projects. They also urged developers to see every aspect like environment, socio-economic, demographic, etc. of the district.

Pema Khandu, speaking on the occasion, urged the power developer to consult the public representative before formulation of CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) plan for next financial year. He said that the NCSDP report for Tawangchu projects shall come within two weeks and then only it will be clear that the power projects shall actually be established in the district. After receipt of report, the future course of action can be decided, he added.

He further had apprehension that in near future when the project actually starts, the floating population of labourers being imported to meet the project requirements, would be unmanageable and therefore urged the developers to look into the matter seriously. He also gave credit to Rev. TG Rinpoche and former CM late Dorjee Khandu for their effort to making possible to utilize the 1 per cent of total project cost for Local area development.

Tsewang Dondup HMLA Tawang felt importance on development of power for increasing the living standard of local population.

Lumla MLA Jambey Tashi also stressed on generating income through hydro power for development of the district and state as a whole.

Rev. TG Rinpoche termed the discussion as historic and urged the power developer to implement the project in a proper systematic manner and honour the draft MoU and land of the law. He said that the local people have to be involved in every stage for success of the project.

In a question answer session, various doubts and issues were discussed and clarified. DIPRO

 

Time to Remember the Legendary artistes of Arunachal

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: Music maestro Late Dr Bhupen Hazarika, the pride of North East India, conquered the heart of millions across world with his enthralling talent. Dr Hazarika became the voice of NE at national and international arena. The people of Assam, the home state of Late Dr Hazarika, understood the value of his contribution to Assamese society and therefore he was given due respect and recognition.

Arunachal has also produced many legendary artistes including singers, musicians, actors and filmmakers. However, in our state artistes have not been given their share of respect and recognition. In fact majority of the former artistes are now living in utter poverty with no support from state government and civil societies alike. They have become a forgotten folklore.

Keeping this in mind, Arunachal Guild for Cultural Integration in Collaboration with Department of Art and Culture is organizing a felicitation programme for the legendary artistes who has contributed immensely in promoting rich culture and tradition of state.

Titled ‘Arunachal Legendary Artistes Felicitation Function-2012’, it will be held on 29th of this month at IG Park, Itanagar. Parliamentary Secretary Tourism and dynamic young MLA Passang Dorjee Sona who is the organizing chairman of this function, while talking to this Daily over phone, informed that main reason behind organizing of this event is to remember those artistes who has entertain us so much from radio days. “Most of the artistes whom we are going to felicitate had entertained us those days when we had no TV and internet. We got to know about various tribes of state through these artistes and therefore we can say that they set the foundation for coming up of state called ‘Arunachal Pradesh’,” said PD Sona. Further he added, “This year we are going to felicitate 22 artistes from varied tribe and background. In future we want to make it a lifetime achievement award and also we are planning to hold it after gap of every 3 years.” Kipa Ajay, the secretary, organizing committee stated that through this event the organizers want to highlight the problems faced by artistes. “Besides felicitation, the event will give rare opportunity to the artistes to tell their woes to the people of Arunachal and Govt. We understand that artistes of the state in absence of any support from state govt and corporate bodies are facing many problems,” said Ajay.

The organizer of the event, Arunachal Guild for Cultural Integration was established in the year 2000. With its head office in Naharlagun, the Society was basically formed to work for the promotion of rich culture and tradition of various tribal communities of the state.

 

Know your legendary artistes

The Arunachal Times is the official media partner of this event. As a tribute to the 22 legendary artistes, this Daily has decided to highlight their contribution to Arunachal society. Starting today,  this Daily highlights the contribution of two artistes, namely, Taba Yall Nabam and Hage Taniyo. Taba Yall Nabam, one of the most popular singers of Arunachal, who had sung in various dialects, will be one of the artistes who will be felicitated. A graduate from North East Hill University, Shillong even after becoming the mother of two sons Yall completed her Bachelor in Music from Prayag Sangeet Samity Allahabad. She has already sung more than 100 songs and released around 60 cassettes both in audio and video. Apart from singing in tribal dialects of Arunachal Pradesh, she sings in Hindi, Bengali, Nepali, Assamese and English.

Yall has had the honour of singing with famous singers like Usha Uthup and Udit Narayan. She has also sung in Assamese feature film with popular singer of Assam, Zubin Garg in “Summon Jumon”. In the year 2006 she was honoured with “young Talented Award” by North East Zonal Cultural Centre Dimapur. Her most popular work includes ‘Dawn lite Melody’ the 1st Nyishi, Adi and Galo Mix album of state.

Hage Taniyo, the popular Apatani artiste will also be felicitated during the day. A resident of Hari Village, Ziro, Taniyo has been in music field since 1970. He is an approved artist of AIR Dibrugarh Yuvabani programme in Assamese language since 1973. He has recorded more than 50 songs in Apatani and Assamese. His famous work includes Apatani audio album Popi Sarmin Vol I and II released in the year 1991 and another PIIM Tako in 2005.

 

Karuna Trust PPP model receives accolade in Thailand

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: The Arunachal chapter of Karuna Trust had become one of the two NGOs of India to represent the nation at the National Health Assembly Thailand (NHA) held in Bangkok from February 1 to 5.

It is to mention that Karuna Trust in partnership with the Dept of Health & Family Welfare, Govt of Arunachal Pradesh has been managing eleven Primary Health Centres (PHCs) under public-Private-Partnership (PPP) program of NRHM since Jan 2006.

Karuna Trust’s coordinator Anup Sarmah along with representative from Delhi based NGO and the Joint Secretary of Union health ministry represented India in the programme wherein the  policy makers, experts, research scholars of Asian and other countries also took part.   Host country Thailand was represented by a strong 1500 delegates.

The main objective of the NHA is to formulate the healthy public policy at local and national levels by means of systemized mechanism. It opens up an opportunity for all development sectors including civil societies to contribute their inputs and exchange the lessons so as to shape the healthy public policy.

The National Health Assembly of Thailand accelerates the preparation of the statue on the national health system, promotes the public awareness on responsibilities  and rights to health, encourages the participatory healthy public policy development and it is the mechanism which drives social movement towards health-conscious society  and  public wellbeing.

Before the NHA, National Health Department of Thailand organized a field trip for Sarmah of Karuna Trust on January 30 & 31 to local level National Health Assembly in Nakhon Sawan Province, about 200 km from Bangkok.

During his field visit, Sarmah interacted with the community health workers, health volunteers, district administrative officials and also visited school health programmes. He shared knowledge about  the new initiatives of NRHM in Arunachal Pradesh and other states of India where the Govt. primary health centres are being managed under Public private Partnership program by the Trust.

It created lot of enthusiasm among the Thai govt. officials to know how NGOs are involved in the strengthening of Govt. health centres in remote and difficult areas.

The audio visual interaction program had created enthusiasm among the Province level and National level policy makers of Thailand about the PPP concept particularly in difficult areas like Arunachal Pradesh. They were very impressed with the ASHA concept of NRHM which is very similar to their Health volunteers’ scheme which was started about 30 years before in Thailand.

 

Industry can be panacea to unemployment in Arunachal: Taloh

Gyati Kacho

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: “The state industry department can contribute in putting strong brakes on the growing unemployment problem in the state”, said Industry, Textile and Handicrafts Minister Tapang Taloh while briefing officials of industry and ITI Principals during the one-day ‘Annual Review Meet’ at Udyog Sadan here today.

Pointing out that spiraling unemployment among the youth was a matter of serious concern, Taloh said the present Nabam Tuki Govt. was committed to solve the menace by taking several pro-active steps to create more skilled human resources and employments for the youths. ‘We are in touch with Union Industry and Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Ministers Anand Sharma and Vir Bhadra Singh, who have assured to have a ‘soft corner’ for the state in allocating adequate resources and incentives. Further, the chief minister has assured in principle to allocate funds for setting up of ‘cold storage’ at every district headquarter which will greatly benefit the poor and progressive farmers’.

Advocating joint and concerted efforts by all officials in revitalizing the department and creating more avenues and assets, Taloh said the Tuki led Govt. is committed to the cause of social employment and he will urge the chief minister to give special attention to the department to create more employments for the unemployed youths.

Advising the District Industry Centre (DIC) officials to equip themselves with latest IT knowledge and policy matters on Industrial activities, Industry, Textile and Handicrafts Commissioner M. Pertin called for drawing up a road map for the DIC’s, ITI’s and their revitalization. He also suggested discussion on the achievements of 11 th 5-Year Plan, pros and cons of 2008-Industrial Policy, and developing better techniques for submission of sound proposals for sanction from the centre.

Explaining that the forum was meant to ventilate suggestions for improvement of the department, Industry director Repo Ronya said that the department needs to set prudent physical targets, goals and priorities. He also suggested protection of the departmental lands at districts from encroachments.

Lamenting poor and meager fund allocation to the department, Joint Director Subu Tabin informed that during 2011-12, state Govt. had only sanctioned Rs 50 crore out of the projected 755 crore. ‘The department has set a goal of generating 50,000 skilled youths in the coming days and state Govt’s positive and paternal attitude towards the department would create more skilled employments and accelerate the process of industrialization in the state’, he emphasized.

The meet involving all officers of the department including the commissioner, director, joint directors, deputy directors and assistant directors from districts and headquarter discussed among others performance report of District Industries Centres and Industrial Training Institutes, road map towards the 12th 5-Year Plan, Implementation of NEIIPP-2007 and State Industrial Policy-2008, discussions on PMEGP Scheme, Skill Development/ITI, and Food Processing Industries during the technical session. Later in the evening, a dinner party was hoisted by the minister at Hotel Donyi-Polo Ashoka.

 

District level education officers coordination meet

AALO, Feb 13 : The first-ever co-ordination meeting of all Principals, Headmaster of  Hr. Secondary Schools, Secondary Schools, RMSA Coordinators and ADEOs was held at the office of the DDSE here  today. The main objectives of the meeting  was to interact and know the factual position of existing infrastructure, staff and students position besides discussion on the academic scenario of West Siang district.

The grievances faced in different educational institutions of the district were compiled together after long interaction and deliberation among the officers in the marathon meeting.

The main points of grievances identified in all schools in the district included demand for immediate connection of internet facility in all Hr. Secondary and Secondary Schools for uploading of CBSE registration, immediate posting of Computer teachers to handle all computer related works in the school, computer set to all schools, sufficient fund to procure infrastructure for all school, proper and uniformity in the implementation of CCE,FA1,F2,SA1,F3,F4,SII in all schools right from Class-I.

The meeting also discussed on the need of timely disbursement of teachers and schools grant under RMSA and SSA, timely release of MDM rice, conversion cost, student stipend etc, non interference of political leaders and Panchayat in the teachers transfer and posting under DDSE, no duty no pay and the stoppage of salary to those teachers who do not perform their duties at posting places

While pointing out the acute shortage of IVth Grade Contingency staff in the district after discontinuation of 48 contingency workers, the meeting felt   that the posts of the contingency IV Grade staff should be sanctioned at the earliest. Moreover, the meeting felt that in addition to negligence of some local teachers in their duty, maternity leave for 4-6 months and Child Care Leave (CCL) for 1-2 years are the major problem that hinders the proper running of schools.

It was decided in the meeting to urge upon the Govt. to make out a provision of leave substitute appointment to all DDSEs of the district so that well qualified tribal unemployed youths may be appointed   for smooth running of academic classes during the maternity or child care leave. DIPRO

 

Traditional water rafting competition

ITANAGAR, Feb  13: As a part of the  ensuing Statehood day celebration, a traditional river rafting  competition  on Hie river of Tirbin circle was organized by Basar ADC Dr Sachin Shinde.

Upper Subansiri Deputy Commissioner Ameya Abhyankar formally flagged off the competition at starting point Bili on February 12 in presence of huge gathering.  Abhyanakar urged upon the public present to give stress on rural sports in order to promote tourism in the state.

Addressing the mammoth gathering Dr. Shinde informed that the competition will be made an annual event. He also assured to sponsor the event  for at least another three years.

Among others, Basar WRD executive engineer Er. T. Tashing  and Agriculture Development Officer Tojo Bam  were present on the occasion.

Altogether 23 team comprising of 2 members each participated in the event.  The main function was organized at ending point at river bank of Tai.

It took only 55 minutes to cover 6.5 kilometer by the Jibi Jilen and Eyum Jilen of Lite village and they won the Champion trophy.  Basa Jilen and Kirri Jilen of Essi Rite village took 58 minutes to cover the same distance and walked away with first runner up trophy. Yumma Kamum and T Kamum who took 59 minutes was adjudged second runners up. All the three winners team were awarded with trophy and cash along with certificate.

 

19 AR organizes volleyball competitions for youths

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: In an attempt to promote the spirit of sportsmanship and integration among the youth, 19 Assam Rifles under the aegis of 25 Sector Assam Rifles organized the Inter Village Volleyball Competitions in  three phases at Deomali, Wakka, and Lazu Circle  in Tirap district recently.  

A total of 8 teams participated in the first phase volleyball competition held at Deomali post of 19 Assam Rifles on February 4 and 5. In the final match Nutan Kheti village team defeated Subang village team and won the match.

In the second phase Inter-Village Volleyball competition held at Wakka Circle  on February 11 and 12, a total of 6 teams participated. In the final match Boys Hostel “A” team thrashed Wakka Town team  and won the match.

In the last phase Inter-Village Volleyball competition which was conducted from February 9 to 13 at Lazu Post of 19 Assam Rifles, a total of 10 teams from Lazu circle participated. Final match was played between Lazu ‘A’ team and Noglo village team  where the  Lazu “A” team  won the competition. The prizes were distributed to all the winning teams.

With an aim of upliftment of youth of Tirap District 19 Assam Rifles has been regularly undertaking a number of projects under Assam Rifles Mil Civic Action.

 

DDJAC observes bandh, threatens to intensify stir

ITANAGAR, Feb 13:  The  District Demand Joint Action Committee  today observed 12 hours bandh in Likabali and Nari-Koyu Assembly Constituencies  in protest  against the Term of Reference (i) of Govt. Notification No. DAD 22/2009 Dated Itanagar, 30/06/2011 for creation of Lower Siang district.

The committee said, in spite of protest against above term of reference (i), the  Administration Department  did not feel it necessary to initiate dialogue for solution to it. Instead,  date of public hearing was notified, which, it said, created mass public resentment.

The Committee threatened to intensify its protest in both the constituencies till deletion/withdrawal of term of reference (i). It further said the people of both the constituencies shall boycott Public Hearing of the said High Power Committee and 24 Hrs Chakka Bandh will be observed in both the constituencies on February 17.  This will be followed by rigorous democratic movement.

Meanwhile, in support of the DDJAC, the Ramle Banggo Welfare Society (RBWS) and  Ramle Banggo Students Union (RBSU) decided to call 12 hours bandh  in Ramle Banggo area on February 15.

The bandh call has been necessitated due to non consideration of the repeated public grievances and vindictive attitude shown by  the higher authorities  towards the demanded for deletion/correction of terms of references-(1), said  RBWS and RBSU in a joint release.

 

 

“Valentine’s Day”: A Tradition

Rima  Taipodia

Across the United States and in other places around the world, every February 14, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint, and where did these traditions come from? Find out about the history of this centuries-old holiday, from ancient Roman rituals to the customs of Victorian England.

The Legend of St. Valentine

In mystery, the history of Valentine’s Day—and the story of its patron saint—is shrouded. We do know that February has long been celebrated as a month of romance, and that St. Valentine’s Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. But who was Saint Valentine, and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? 

The Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred. One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death. 

According to other stories, Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons, where they were often beaten and tortured. According to one legend, an imprisoned Valentine actually sent the first “valentine” greeting himself after he fell in love with a young girl—possibly his jailor’s daughter—who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter signed “From your Valentine,” an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories all emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic and—most importantly—romantic figure. By the Middle Ages, perhaps thanks to this reputation, Valentine would become one of the most popular saints in England and France.

Origins of Valentine’s Day: A Pagan Festival in February

While some believe that Valentine’s Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine’s death or burial—which probably occurred around A.D. 270—others claim that the Christian church may have decided to place St. Valentine’s feast day in the middle of February in an effort to “Christianize” the pagan celebration of Lupercalia. Celebrated at the ides of February, or February 15, Lupercalia was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus. 

Members of the Luperci, an order of Roman priests, to begin the festival, would gather at a sacred cave where the infants Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, were believed to have been cared for by a she-wolf or lupa. The priests would sacrifice a goat, for fertility, and a dog, for purification. They would then strip the goat’s hide into strips, dip them into the sacrificial blood and take to the streets, gently slapping both women and crop fields with the goat hide. Far from being fearful, Roman women welcomed the touch of the hides because it was believed to make them more fertile in the coming year. Later in the day, according to legend, all the young women in the city would place their names in a big urn. The city’s bachelors would each choose a name and become paired for the year with his chosen woman. These matches often ended in marriage.

Valentine’s Day: A Day of Romance

Lupercalia survived the initial rise of Christianity and but was outlawed—as it was deemed “un-Christian”—at the end of the 5th century, when Pope Gelasius declared February 14 St. Valentine’s Day. It was not until much later, however, that the day became definitively associated with love. During the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that  February  14  was  the  beginning  of  birds’  mating season, which added to the idea that the middle of Valentine’s Day should be a day for romance.

As  far  back  as  the  Middle  Ages, Valentine greetings were popular, though written Valentine’s didn’t  begin  to appear until after 1400. The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem  written  in  1415  by  Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. (The greeting is now part of the  manuscript  collection  of  the British Library in London, England.) Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois.

Typical Valentine’s Day Greetings

In addition to the United States, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France and Australia. In Great Britain, Valentine’s Day began to be popularly celebrated around the 17th century. By the middle of the 18th, it was common for friends and lovers of all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes, and by 1900 printed cards began to replace written letters due to improvements in printing technology. Ready-made cards were an easy way for people to express their emotions in a time when direct expression  of  one’s  feelings  was  discouraged.  Cheaper  postage  rates  also  contributed  to an increase in the popularity of sending Valentine’s Day greetings. 

In the early 1700s, Americans probably began exchanging hand-made valentines. In the 1840s, Esther A. Howland began selling the first mass-produced valentines in America. Howland, known as the “Mother of the Valentine,” made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as “scrap.” Today, according to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated 1 billion Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year, making Valentine’s Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year. (An estimated 2.6 billion cards are sent for Christmas.) Women purchase approximately 85 percent of all valentines. (The writer is a STO and former consultant to the state planning department govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar.)

 

SAI director visits site for SAG centre

AALO, Feb 13 : Director of Sports Authority of India, Subash Basumatary  and Arunachal Pradesh Director of  Sports and Youth Affairs, D.K. Dinglow visited  Kandi (near Darka village) in West Siang district  in order to study feasibility for establishment of Special Areas Games Centre and Sports Complex  there.

Satisfied with the infrastructures and location of the sports complex, Basumatary assured to establish the SAG Centre after fulfillment of all formalities.  Dinglow informed that the Aalo youths are passionate in every field of sports.  If SAG Centre is opened at Aalo it will immensely help to hunt sports talents of not only West Siang but adjoining districts also, he said. DIPRO

 

‘Givt emphasis on social development’

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: While participating at the conference of Akom Welfare Society held at Ligu, Upper Subansiri  on February 10, Parliamentary Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, Food Civil Supplies, Nido Pavitra urged the society to focus on social development.   DC  Ameya  Abhayankar also spoke on the need of development and  preservation of culture.

 

Orgs wants tender results

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: Expressing its strong resentment over delay in start of Khenewa-Nampe road construction work under PMGSY, the Khenewa-Nampe Road Development Committee (KNRDC) and the All East Kameng Youth Welfare Association (AEKYWA), in a letter has demanded the Commissioner, Rural Works Department to declare the result of the tender for awarding work within four days.

Both KNRDC and AEKYWA said that tender for the said work was held in July 25, 2011 but no contractor has been awarded the work due to which the road construction work has been delayed. Both the organizations threatened to launch democratic movement if the matter is not settled by the authority concerned within four days.

 

IPv6 awareness workshop

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: The BSNL and the Information Technology department of Arunachal Pradesh Govt will conduct a day-long IPv6 awareness workshop for Govt agencies and decision makers of the state at Banquet Hall here on February 24.

The workshop will cover various aspects of IPv6 technology including IPv6 policy of the government, IPv6 task force and IPv6 application.

It is worth mentioning here that Central Govt had formed the India IPv6 task force in December 2010 and BSNL has been entrusted the task of holding training and awareness programme throughout  the  country by department of telecommunication (DoT).

 

Festival greetings

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: Arunachal Pradesh Governor General (Retd) J.J. Singh has conveyed his warm greetings to all the people of Arunachal Pradesh on the auspicious of occasion of Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi.

In his festival message, the Governor said that Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi is rich in cultural impressions and offers a window to the ancient Singpho folk culture. The rituals during the celebration have always helped in building warm social relations which lead to unity in the community.

The Governor wished that the ethno-cultural festival continue to facilitate the carrying forward of the treasured age-old cultural heritage of the community

Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has also extended his sincere greetings on the occasions of Tamla-Du festival of Mishmis and Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi festival of Singphos.

In his festival message, Tuki believed that these festivals would continue to facilitate the promotion and preservation of the rich cultural heritage and tradition of both the communities.

While praying for peace, happiness and prosperity, Tuki emphasized for carrying forward the vibrant culture and tradition to the younger generation. Parliamentary Secretary, PHE & Water Supply, Karikho Kri also greeted the people of the state on the eve of Tamla- Du festival.

In his festival message, Kri said, “On this auspicious occasion of the Tamla-Du festival, I wish you all the best of health. Let there be prosperity and harmony in our lives.”

 

Training prog on jute

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: Altogether 42 beneficiaries from different villages of Tirap district are taking part in the ongoing training programme on jute handicraft being organized by the  Jute Service Center, Itanagar  in co-ordination with 36 Bn CRPF at Khonsa  in Tirap district. The training programme started on January 31 and  will conclude on March 14. Resource persons from Jute Service Centre, Itanagar are imparting the training.

The main aim of the training is to help local women from different villages in Tirap to learn basic skills and art work on jute products such as doormats, flower vase, flower baskets, door screen, table mats , ladies bags etc. After completion of training, these trainees will  conduct training programme to  train their own village womenfolk on jute handicraft. Raw materials for which will be supplied by National Jute Board through their agency in Itanagar.

Unit Commandant B C Sharma  had interacted with the trainees and the resource persons on  the inaugural day of the programme and expressed satisfaction at the interest shown by the trainees.

 

Exclude Adi villages from the proposed district: AdiSU

ITANAGAR, Feb 13:  Adi Students Union (AdiSU) has appealed the Chief Secretary of the  state to exclude Adi villages, Adi land and forest from the proposed Lower Siang district.

Citing a  series of representations submitted earlier to the Chief Minister in favour of its demand, the Union in a letter to the  CS said,  what AdiSU strives for is the Adi people of the  proposed district. “We have an emotional attachment culturally and traditionally besides linguistic affinity with the people whom we seek for exclusion from the proposed district”, the union said.

 

Senior teacher dies, ATA Upper Subansiri unit mourns

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: Arunachal Teachers’ Association, Upper Subansiri district unit has mourned the untimely demise of senior teacher Late Takar Game, who breathed his last at Guwahati Medical College on February 12. He leaves behind his wife, two daughters and one son.

Joining the education department as a junior teacher on January 16, 1991, he had served in the far flung areas of Upper Subansiri and later promoted as a senior teachers on August 13, 2009. He was posted at Govt Higher Secondary School, Kadok and later at Govt Higher Secondary School, Dumporijo  where he rendered his dedicated service till his death. His mortal remains are being brought today to his native village Tamarepa under Barijiro circle.  Executive members of ATA district unit and  teachers from Dumporijo Govt HSS school and  teachers from other school will pay last tribute to the departed soul at his village.

 

Training on RTI Act at ATI

ITANAGAR, Feb 13: A  three days long “sensitization training programme on RTI Act" for ministerial staff of AP Civil Secretariat and other HoDs, including Legislative Assembly Secretariat, Governor's Secretariat Itanagar, Naharlagun and Nirjuli began at Administrative Training Institute (ATI), Naharlagun today.

As many as 22 officials are attending the programme.

A brief inaugural function was held under the Chairmanship of Director (Trg.) Pema Tshetan.

Course Coordinator, Pate Marik, Asstt. Director (Trg.) highlighted the course content.

Other guest resource persons included Advocate Tony Pertin, Advocate Zakir Hussain, Danibello, Under Secretary  and H Panyang, former Information Commissioner.

 

AAPDHEEA celebrates foundation day

ITANAGAR, Feb 13:  The 1st ever foundation  day of All Arunachal Pradesh Diploma Holder in Elementary Education Association (AAPDHEEA) was celebrated from 11th to 12th of this month in the DIET campus, Naharlagun. The celebration started with the hoisting of the flag of association by Bosiram Siram, Minister for Education, Science & Technology Government of Arunachal Pradesh.

A memorandum was submitted to the Education Minister by Marphy Timba, president of the association. Among other the function was attended by Gania Leij, Principal,DIET, Naharlagun, Monya Nyori, DDSE,(TE), M.B Singh, state coordinator SSA and Puto Bui legal advisor of AAPDHEEA.

In his address Education Minister spoke about the various problems which are prevailing in the present education system of the state and appealed everyone to render their best services for the upliftment of the present standard of education in the state. He also assured the association members to look into their grievances.

M. Nyori DDSE (TE) in his speech focused on the grass roots problems of the recruitment of teachers and their eligibilities.  

Gania Leij, Principal, DIET, Naharlagun urged the concerned authority to look into the serious problems of the diploma holder with a sympathetic outlook by absorbing them in regular post of teachers. Also spoke on the occasion was M.B Singh, Puto Bui and  Tachung Dobin, General Secretary of AAPDHEEA.

News Impact

• Mechukha -- God’s own abode needs urgent Govt attention
• Holistic State Sports Policy on the anvil: Tuki
• International seminar on ‘Resources, Tribes and State’ begins
• Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi begins at Bordumsa
• PPLAWC  reiterates demand
• People’s cooperation sought to exploit  hydro power in Tawang
• Time to Remember the Legendary artistes of Arunachal
• Karuna Trust PPP model receives accolade in Thailand
• Industry can be panacea to unemployment in Arunachal: Taloh
• District level education officers coordination meet
• Traditional water rafting competition
• 19 AR organizes volleyball competitions for youths
• DDJAC observes bandh, threatens to intensify stir
• “Valentine’s Day”: A Tradition

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

All rights reserved.

 

Facilities and disabilities

More than 1 billion people live with a disability, says the world report on disability, published by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World Bank. It covers all forms of disability, from blindness to mental health issues.

It updates global disability estimates for the first time in 40 years and finds that 20% of the world's poorest people have disabilities and nearly 80% of people with disabilities live in low-income countries.

It is thirty years since the United Nations first observed the International Year of differently abled Persons under the theme Full Participation and Equality.

The UN states that during that period, there has been significant progress in raising awareness about the rights of persons with disabilities and in strengthening the international normative framework to realize those rights – from the World Programme of Action (1982) to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006).

Persons with disabilities experience higher rates of poverty and deprivation and are twice as likely to lack health care.  Employment rates of persons with disabilities in some countries are as low as one-third of that of the overall population.  In developing countries, the gap in primary school attendance rates between children with disabilities and others ranges from 10 per cent to 60%.

The UN millennium development goals (MDGs) may not be met by 2015 unless urgent action is taken to address the needs of people with disabilities, according to the first world report on disability.

Despite being pivotal in global efforts to reach the MDGs by 2015, people with disabilities are largely invisible in development statistics and absent from aid budgets. Disability is not mentioned once in any of the eight MDGs, or the 21 targets, or the 60 indicators for achieving the goals.

Don’t break hope of the poor

Dear Editor,

Last month when I visited Baririjo, my birth place and during the period I got the fortune to visit the school. I was rather disappointed to see, children sitting crammed on benches in many classes. I noticed that more than four children were sitting on single bench with much difficulty. Above all it is sad to say that students from class one upto fifth standard were sitting on the floor.

I was shocked, to hear that there are only nine teacher in that school. Out of nine only three teachers were taking their class regularly, others were untraceable. This is due to the weak performance of state Government, Education Department, local MLA as well as public.

Irregularity of teacher in the class or in the school is not a phenomenon only in Baririjo area, but it happens all over the state. Due to this reason poor people may suffer a lot. Poor people can’t afford to admit their children in Pvt. Schools. Their only hopes are Govt Schools. Please do not break the hopes of poor people.

I appeal to the Concern Authority to investigate the matter without delay and do the needful at the earliest.

Yours,

Gompi Hai

Naharlagun

 

 

Lessons from Assam

Dear Editor,

The people of the twin capital cities of Itanagar and Naharlagun seem to enjoy the bandh culture that is being imposed on them frequently now. What a waste of precious time and loss to the state exchequer! But does it really make any difference to anyone? At a time when the working season is at its peak, all activities are literally shut in and around the twin cities for Five days for a day bandh call. I tell you how! Simple! Be out of the town on the day before the bandh and return on late Monday. Isn't it simple? But who cares? After all it’s the latest capital culture. People do forget their traditional/indigenous culture but not this affluent culture.

In the recent past, we Arunachalis have criticized frequent Assam Bandhs. But do we deserve to do that? In spite of such bandh calls by dreaded militant groups in Asssam from time to time, the capital city of  Guwahati never gets affected. Any lesson for people of, so called "Peace Loving and the Land of Rising sun? Come on let’s not fool ourselves!!

Concern Citizen

 

 

We are in debt

Dear editor,

It’s very saddening that despite several requests for immediate release of 3 months pending salary with six months arrear, Govt has decided to release the SSA teachers for one month only.

The immature response and decision of our state govt is a mockery. We are facing hard financial crisis for the last three months. In order to support ourselves and our family we had to take loans from private parties at high interest rate. In fact we have fallen into debt.

In this situation several unsolved question arises in our mind. What did state govt. do with Rs.88 crore granted from MHRD in Aug 2011? If state govt. has no fund to pay salary for sincere and dedicated service of SSA teachers, then how come our Chief Minister manage adequate fund to sanction crores of rupees to his constituency and its neighbouring areas in his every visit? On what condition did CEC ASSATA withdrew proposed pen down strike?

Lastly I request state govt. to release 3 months pending salary with six months arrear.

Yours,

D.Tagio

SSA Teacher

 

 

Adulterated fuel

Dear Editor,

This is regarding the petrol pump fiasco in Yinkiong. The claim of the owner that no complaint has been registered in police regarding the selling of adulterated petrol is baseless. Most individual buys 7-8 litre of petrol and do you think for 7-8 litres of adulterated petrol, a person will take the issue personally by complaining to the police. I am not in support of the damages caused to the pump by the self proclaimed rightist. Nonetheless, it would be unfair if we don't condemn the selling of adulterated petrol which has become a bane in Pasighat as well. If the authorities want to confirm the allegations, ask any two wheeler owner and servicing centres. I am not sure if clean petrol is supplied with the sediments which the owners find at the bottom of their tanks, creating the problem to start the engine.

A concerned two wheeler owner

Pasighat

 

 

How safe?

Dear Editor,

I would like to place this grievances faced by people in general and VKV’s students of Kuporijo in particular. To procure quality education, students of Daporijo attend VKV Kuporijo and to reach the school they have to cross the Lt. Tadak Dulom Bridge over River Subansiri. The maximum capacity of the bridge is eight. But it’s awful that more than 40 students cross the bridge at a time. Moreover two wheelers also use the bridge during the time. There arises the question of safety.

Yours truly

Arvink Kumar Shah

Daporijo

 

 

Don’t drag my name

Dear Editor,

It refers to the Reader’s Forum of your esteemed daily dated 11th February 2012. It is seen that some Associations/Federation is using my subject of transfer to criticize the Mission Director (NRHM). Here, I would like to clarify that I don’t have any association or Federation of any kind. Thus, I would like to request the Arunachal Pradesh Youngsters United Federation not to drag my name to settle any problem with any particular office or officer.

If there is any problem with any office or any officer it should be settled amicably and officially without using my transfer as a base.

Yours,

Dr. Litum Bagra

District RCH Officer (NRHM)

Naharlagun

 

 

Website

Dear Editor,

I want to draw the attention of Govt of Arunachal Pradesh towards the bogus and defective website of Arunachal lottery dept. This website is under construction but lottery is going on. Is it not a mockery?

Yours,

M K Mahan

Sindri,  Jharkhand

 

 

 

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