February  25

CBI under scanner as UTP dies

Wangcha Rajkumar assassination

Pisi Zauing

TEZU, Feb 24: The integrity and efficiency of CBI, the investigating agency and Judicial Lock-Up authority, Tezu is under scanner with the death of L.K Kaping alias Kaping Yankham, an accused in former MP Wangcha Rajkumar assassination case. He allegedly died because of torture inflicted on him by authorities.

Defense Counsel and Attorney for the accused, Jawang Sumpa informed that  Kaping was arrested by 17th Assam Rifles from Uhkrul district of Manipur but was shown arrested by CBI from Manipur in connection with Deomali PS Case No. 24/2007 US 302/ 307/ 34 IPC, R/W sections 25 (1A) (1B) and 27 (2) (3) of Arms Act, and sections 16/18 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

The CBI took the suspect to Kolkata from Manipur and thereafter he was shifted to Namsai and finally to Tezu Judicial Lock-Up where he was locked up for nearly 13 months. His bail petition was rejected by District & Session Court, East Session Division Tezu on December 7, 2011. Again subsequent bail application was filed before the same court on the ground that the alleged accused L.K Kaping was seriously ill and already admitted in District Hospital but the learned counsel for CBI S.S Rehman placed his objection on the ground that he needs more time to file his objection petition before the session court and that the Under Trial Prisoner (UTP) has already been referred outside the state for thorough diagnosis and better treatment. The date for bail hearing was fixed on March 9, 2012, Lawyer Jawang Sumpa informed.

The Defence Counsel alleged the CBI of torturing Kaping mentally and physically in the name of interrogation and extracting confessional statement.

The UTP was severely unwell for the last five months at the mercy of the Judicial Lock-Up at Tezu. The Superintendent of District Hospital referred him for treatment outside the state but instead of shifting him out for better health care services, he was unfortunately sent back to judicial lock-up from the district hospital, alleged the defence counsel.

District & Session Court, East Session Division, Tezu also passed an order on February 3 , 2012 for immediate shifting of the seriously ill UTP outside the state. He was admitted to District Hospital, Tezu only when his condition deteriorated from where he was shifted to Assam Medical College Dibrugarh on February 17,  2012.  Two days later he was shifted to ICU there where he died.

The argument of Defense Lawyer is that the deceased was not a convicted accused but an UTP.

The CBI filed charge sheet against the deceased L.K. Kaping alias Kaping Yankham on 8 Sept 2010 vide charge sheet No. 07/ 2010 thereby declaring him as an absconder. The trial started last year before the District & Session Court Tezu for framing of charges but since two co - accused have been shown absconding, the trial is yet to see the light of the day. The CBI have filed charge sheet against three accused persons including the deceased but Test Identification Parade was never done as required as per the Criminal Procedures Code, 1973, the defence counsel adds.

Suspect Tache Wangsu is the approver in this case.  

Altogether 13 persons have been charged in the case as accused/ suspects out of which 11 of them have been arrested. However, Naharlagun Bench of Gauhati High Court granted bail to 5 suspects while remaining five accused are languishing in Judicial Lock-Up, Tezu and two are absconding.

A gang of assassins fully armed with sophisticated weapons mercilessly shot Rajkumar from a point blank range in Deomali on 23 December, 2007 that shook the entire region. The delay in investigation of the murder case has already raised many questions and the manner in which the UTP died; CBI will have to respond to some uncomfortable questions.

 

 

Festival of Arunachal -2012 concludes

Bollywood stars enthrall crowd at IG Park

Taba Ajum

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: The five days long Festival of Arunachal-2012 ended with the gala performance by  Bollywood celebrities at Indira Gandhi Park here this evening. The Festival of Arunachal which was celebrated on the line of Hornbill Festival of Nagaland coinciding with the Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Day celebration drew record crowd.

However, the main attraction of final night of the festival was tuneful performance by Bollywood artistes, including famous playback singer Kumar Sanu. Indian Idol finalist Miyang Chang, Sa Re Ga Ma L’il Champ winner Anamika Chaudhary, Suresh Albela and Navin Prabhakar of Great India Laughter Challenge, Bollywood actress Tanushree Dutta and item dancer Yana Gupta enthralled the crowd with their splendid performance.

Kumar Sanu sang hit numbers like “Jab koi baat bigar, Ek ladki ko dekha..” etc, which got raptures applauds from large crowd.  

Miyang Chang and little Anamika also presented various Hindi numbers to swayed thousands of heart particularly youngsters. Suresh Albela and Navin Prabhakar with their laughter evoking skills left the jam-packed audience spellbound. But it was Bollywood item queen Yana Gupta who stole the show. As she danced to the tune of Babuji Zara Dere Chalo, the IG Park crowd went mad.

The concluding day of festival was graced by Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, with Arunachal Chief Minister Nabam Tuki playing perfect host. Host of other dignitaries including  Minister, MLAs and Lokh Sabha MP Takam Sanjoy joined the final of day of  the celebration.

 

 

“Neonatal mortality rate disproportionately high in India’

Training on Basic Newborn Care and Resuscitation

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: The Arunachal Pradesh Medical Council under the aegis of National Rural Health Mission, Arunachal Pradesh started the first phase of 2 days training on Navjaat Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (Basic Newborn Care and Resuscitation) for medical practitioners today in the Conference Hall of Directorate of Health Services, Naharlagun.  In the first batch, 28 doctors from various health centres, including Kalaktang, Innao, Bilat, Deed, Yazali, Pongchau, Basar, Singchung, Gensi, Likabali, Hawai, Chongkham, Dambuk, CHC Hayuliang, Nafra, Tirbin,  Kanubari, Wakro, Longding, Parbuk, Mahadevpur, Namsai, Kimin, Kairampur, Borguli, Mebo were  undergoing training. The Navjaat Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (NSSK) training programme is being launched by the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare address the neonatal mortality rate. Neonatal mortality world over is around 37% of all under 5 mortality whereas in India this is around 50% of all under 5 death, which means that the problem of under 5 neonatal death case is disproportionately high in India.

“Therefore, the objective of the training is to get persons trained in basic newborn care, which in turn would prevent the mortality rate, said a release from the Council.

Dr. Moji Jini Registrar-cum Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh Medical Council, in his address, said that “The duty of medical practitioners to the people is to render professional service and he/ she must possess appropriate knowledge and skills in modern system of medicine and surgery which must be continuously improved,” Hence, all medical practitioners should always update their knowledge to deliver better health services to patient; and service without requisite knowledge is unthinkable, Dr. Jini said requested all to learn with open mind.  

Dr. R. Doye. vice president of Arunachal Pradesh Medical Council in his address emphasized on the importance of continuing medical education programme (CME) for the doctors and requested all to attend CME whenever such opportunities come up.

Dr. Tao Kaki, Member of Arunachal Pradesh Medical Council while requesting the trainees to gain the requisite knowledge, categorically mentioned that the decision making at the right time is vital in medical profession.

Dr. Hibu  Tagyung, Sr. Paediatrician,  Dr. Toko Bombei Tayeng, Gynaecologist and Dr. Koj Jarbo, Anaesthesiologist of General Hospital Naharlagun  are the resource persons of  the  two-day training.

 

 

State level workshop

Animal disease reporting system to be rolled out soon

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: A one day state level workshop on National Animal Disease Reporting System (NADRS) was organised by National Informatics Centre, the implementing agency, in coordination with the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh at the SIRD Conference Hall, Itanagar today.

The project was sponsored by Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of India.

The National Animal Disease Reporting System (NADRS) is a new Centrally Sponsored Scheme being implemented by Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries (DADF). The NADRS involves a computerized network, integrating both MIS and GIS, which would link each block, district and the State/UT headquarters in the country to the Central Disease Reporting & Monitoring Unit (CDRMU) in the DADF at New Delhi. All the notified diseases scheduled in the `The Prevention and Control of Infectious & Contagious Diseases in Animals Act 2009’ will be included in this reporting system. The ongoing centrally sponsored schemes in the district can also be monitored under the project.

The NADRS includes various features such as Centralized Animal Disease Database at National Level, Automation of Animal Disease Reporting through various Channels like IVRS, SMS, email and web based system, Integration of Animal Disease Diagnosis Laboratory Workflow System, Single Channel for Information Dissemination, GIS based Decision Support System and Analytical System developed using analytical modeling tools etc.

The software will be rolled out soon in the state and the workshop was basically for awareness creation and taking feedback on the progress made so far.  The problems faced by the various AH & Vety. offices regarding the project was also discussed.

The workshop was attended by the Dist. Veterinary Officer, Disease Investigation Officers, V.Os and Doctors of the Department and BSNL representative.

Tajom Taloh, Commissioner (AH & Vety, LM, exhorted upon the officers to take the reporting system seriously as people of Arunachal are primarily dependent on Agriculture and livestock. Timely disease reporting and action is very essential for keeping the livestock healthy. He also impressed upon improvement in BSNL network connectivity so that reporting system can work effectively and asked NIC to address these issues.

Dr. Hage Tabin, Director(AH & Vety)  called upon the officers to learn the reporting system for timely reporting to minimise losses of livestock.

J. Roy, SIO, NIC asked for cooperation from all stake holders for effective implementation of the project. The technical sessions were coordinated by Tasso Habung, Scientist-D & NIC Coordinator and Dr. K. Basar, Nodal Officer from Dept. of AH&V.

 

 

Mithun health camp cum awareness prog

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: Papum Pare District Krishi Vigyan Kendra  in collaboration with Animal Husbandry  and  Veterinary department organized a one day Mithun health camp cum awareness programme at SRTT sponsored Community Mithun Conservation Centre, Mani and adjoining villages of Doimukh circle on February 23.  Scientists from National Research Centre on Mithun, Nagaland also attended the awareness camp as resource persons. Altogether 100 animals (mithun and cattle) were vaccinated against FMD and BQHS diseases and medicines distributed to the livestock owners of the village.

During the awareness camp, the team of scientists from Nagaland led by senior scientist Dr. S. Mukheerji made the mithun owners aware of the need to conserve the animal as it is found only in Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland and Mizoram at presen, the population of which is in declining trend.

Highlighting the activities of their research centre for conservation of Mithun, the resource person also demonstrated the low cost feed block (made from locally available feed and fodder resource) and mineral mixture (under trade name of “Mithumine”) to the participants in the programme. Participating in the programme Dr. K. Basar informed that Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) was most prevalent in Mithuns. He, however, said that FMD vaccines are available free of cost to the farmers to fight against the disease.

DVO Dr. D P Singh highlighted the importance of vaccination and suggested the farmers to vaccinate Mithun twice a year for preventing outbreak of diseases like FMD in the area. Such vaccine is readily available in the department, he said and called upon the farmers to report the outbreak of such diseases. He said that Vets are always ready to prevent outbreak of animal diseases.

Dr. Heli, PC, KVK, Papum Pare, informed the participants that Mithun conservation efforts are being taken under the sponsorship of Sir Ratan Tata Trust (SRTT) as a pilot project under the banner of “conservation of Mithuns  and its natural habitat through community participation” at Rami-Sei under Doimukh circle for community Mithuns.

He further informed that Papum Pare KVK is organizing capacity building for ‘Mithun club members’ through training and exposure programmes for developing the sense of belongingness of the project for their Mithuns. A total area of 60 hectare land has been fenced in between Doimukh-Sagalee road adjoining to hillocks of Mani and Chiputa village for the community Mithuns of the area under the said project.

Mithun Club (Community Mithun Centre, Rami-Sei) president Yab Bola also spoke on the occasion.

 

 

Centre will provide all necessary assistance: Ghatowar

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: DoNER Minister Paban Singh Ghatowar reiterated the assurance of the Government of India under the leadership of Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh to provide all necessary assistance to make Arunachal Pradesh a progressive state at par with others.

Ghatowar, who joined the Festival of Arunachal as Chief Guest at I G Park here last evening, said that being a native of the region (he hails from Tinsukia district in Assam) he was aware of all the problems of the North East.

“Consider me the envoy of the North East at the Center. I will be the bridge between the region and the Central Government. I assure to work overtime to bring in development to the region,” Ghatowar asserted in chaste Assamese addressing a huge crowd gathered to enjoy cultural programmes of the North Eastern states.

Citing Arunachal Pradesh as a special state due to its strategic importance and vast natural resources, the DoNER Minister said the Center, especially Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, is giving due attention to the issues of the state.

“Dr Singh has specially directed me to attend to your state. Therefore, be assured that special packages and funds will never cease to flow in,” he said. The Union Minister appreciated Chief Minister Nabam Tuki for his energy shown in the first few months of his reign and expressed optimism that under Tuki’s governance the state would progress rapidly.

He was also appreciative of the unity in diversity exemplified by people of different ethnic communities residing in the state.

Later, Ghatowar enjoyed the cultural presentations and performances by different local troupes and artistes along with those from other states of the North East. Special programmes were also presented by artistes of the North East Zonal Cultural Center.

 

 

Dai Apung: a ray of hope for children

Amar Sangno

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: At a time when there are reports of hundreds of government run schools failing in terms of imparting basic education to children despite having sizeable number of teaching staff, Dai Apung, a revived Kindergarten (KG) school at Chayangtajo in East Kameng district gives a ray of hope to the children of the remote circle.  

The school was established way back in 1988 as Rajiv Gandhi KG School, a purely private elementary school, depending on students’ fees as source of survival. The school was run by a wife of a government officer till 2010. But leaving many students in despair, the school was abandoned after her departure in 2010.

Fortunately, Sub-divisional officer (SDO) in charge of ChayangTajo, Dahey Sangno adopted it and revived the School in 2011. He renamed the school Dai Apung KG School  in place of Rajiv Gandhi in order to give local flavor with four staff.

Subsequently, Dai Apung started functioning with 40 students. The salaries of the employees are being currently paid by the SDO in charge himself.

However, Dai Apung found an angel donor in the form of Tara-Tangam Charitable Trust, a Naharlagun based NGO run by state project deputy director of SSA Rajya Mission, Ashok Tajo, who volunteered to fund it on yearly basis after it entered into memorandum of understanding with SDO in 2011.

Speaking to this correspondent, SDO in charge Dahey Sangno informed that the basic objective of revival of Dai Apung KG School is to impart quality education to poor children in the circle headquarters, who are deprived of basic education.

He added that the school is purely a non-profitable and non –governmental. He hoped that with the help of Tara-Tangam Charitable Trust, there would be no credit crunch in running the school.

 

 

SSA community mobilization programme at Ruksin block

Prafulla Kaman

RUKSIN, Feb 24: As a part of its ongoing “Community Mobilization Drive”, the East Siang district Sarva Siksha Abhiyan (SSA) Mission conducted a training cum awareness meeting on educations schemes of the Central Govt at Block Resource Centre office here on Thursday.

It was maiden programme in Ruksin block, where more than 100 participants including the Headmasters/ headmistress besides a number of chairmen of School Management Committees participated.

The meeting was presided over by Ruksin SDO(C), Yemlin Tayeng, who urged the teachers to render their teaching services dedicatedly.

Participating in the programme as resouce person, Deputy Director of School Education (DDSE) Tani Talom explained in details about the various aspects of national education policies like SSA, Rastriya Madhyamik Siksha Abhiyan, Sakshar Bharat Mission with special reference to “Right to Education Act-2009”. He also discussed about Mid-Day meal schemes, which is encouraging the students to attend schools.

Stressing on the  need of “comprehensive” evolutions of learning process,  the DDSE urged the block level SSA officials to develop strong parent-teacher relationship.

The DDSE further informed that about 125 primary and middle schools in the district have been brought under the SSA scheme. The SSA Mission earlier conducted such programme at Pangin-Boleng and Mebo area and is planning to organize the next programme at Nari-Koyu.

The DDSE urged  departmental officers to play active role in formulating developmental policies for successful implementation of the education projects.

Officials in education department including Ruksin Block Resource Coordinator Takir Taloh, ADEO Tarak Tagi, SC Sarma, SSA Child Pedagogy Coordinator KS Bist and many others attended in the programme.

 

 

Awareness programme on cooperative movement

AALO, Feb 24: The West Siang District Cooperative Union (DSU) conducted a training cum Member Education Programme regarding formation of cooperatives, Self Help Groups (SHG), awareness on the microfinance programmes of the Arunachal Pradesh Apex Bank and enrollment of SHG members with Y B LAMPS Ltd., Gensi recently.

Attending the programme, DRCS cum executive officer of District Cooperative Union R P Singh stressed on the need of diversification of economic activities under cooperative sector.

The activities of the cooperative sector are not only confined to a particularly sector, he said, adding  the cooperatives and SHGs could undertaken wide range of activities under priority sector like agriculture, horticulture, handicraft, tourism, hotel and catering and bee keeping etc.

A progressive farmer and expert in pisciculture from Biru village, Jumdo Jini called upon people to take up pisciculture  for self-dependence and assured cooperation and technical guidance to intending fish farmers.

Basar Apex Bank branch manager C Lombi highlighted  various self-employment schemes and procedures of obtaining bank loan by the SHGs.

District Cooperative Union Chairperson Ribi Rime stressed on the need of women empowerment through cooperative sector. She also called upon the SHGs to avail the financial schemes provided under Apex Bank.

Aalo LAMP MD Raja Taki gave a living example of successful SHG working under Aalo LAMP and exhorted the participants to work hard to achieve the goal in life.

Presiding over the meeting, Takar Ngucho highlighted the importance of the training programme. The awareness programme will help the villagers to understand  the need of forming SHGs, he said.

 

 

BWC to prohibit forceful donation

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: Taking serious note of forceful donation by various organizations, associations, individuals from traders, shopkeepers and forceful selling of lottery, housie, tambola tickets, gift coupons, calenders etc. to the business community of Naharlagun township, the Bazar Welfare Committee (BWC), Naharlagun, in its recent meeting, has unanimously decided to prohibit such illegal practices by strictly following the district administration’s order issued in 2010 banning all such activities.

While discouraging formation of sub-associations within the bazar, which create confusions, the meeting resolved that all such sub-associations would be amalgamated with BWC. Further, any development activities to be taken within Naharlagun market areas would be implemented in coordination with the BWC, the meeting resolved.

Earlier, BWC submitted a memorandum to local MLA  Techi Kaso for installation of Closed Circuit TV cameras in busy market areas to contain law and order problems.

The meeting also discussed various issues, including the problems being faced by the business community.

Among others, Talo Potom, ADM cum chief estate officer, Tom Ratan, EAC, Naharlagun, Irak Bagra, SDPO, Naharlagun and Tarh Nachung, general secretary ACCI attended the meeting.

 

 

Destructors lift Geo Enpro T20 Night Cricket trophy

Correspondent

JAIRAMPUR, Feb 24: Diyun Destructors lifted the Geo Enpro Changlang District T20 Night Cricket Tournament 2012 Trophy defeating GeoEnpro Giants in a keenly contested final match at the general ground here.

Geo Enpro Giants after winning the toss put Diyun Destructors to bat first which stunned everyone. However, the gamble paid off as they bundled DD out  for 82 runs.

Chasing 83 runs to win, Geo Enpro Giants couldn't exploit the opportunity of batting second to chase the target successfully as all the batsmen succumbed to the good bowling and some brilliant fieldings.

From the first ball of the second innings, runs were flowing in extras for GG as DD bowlers recklessly gave away runs through wides. But GG were unable to capitalize DD’s mistakes as wickets continued to fall at regular intervals.

The winner walked away with cash prize of Rs.50,000 along with the coveted trophy.

The pioneering T20 Night Cricket Tournament 2012 was organized by District Youth Congress, sponsored by Geo Enpro, Kharsang, and Valecha International and supported by 18 Assam Rifle and www.amazingarunachal.com, a website involved in promotion of Arunachal Tourism for free.

 

 

Awareness prog on TSC

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: A five days village level awareness programme on Information Education Communication (IEC) on Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC) began in Balijan circle from February 21.

Chessa-Sonajuli  and Kokila and Hollongi Panchayats  have already been covered under the programme which is being organized by Papum Pare District Water Sanitation Committee (DWSC) under PHE department in collaboration with N N Charitable Society (NNCS).

Participating in the awareness programme held at Govt Primary school Lengkha under Lengkha-Tengabari Panchayat today, the Society chairman Nangbia Amar Dui called upon villagers to  shun the habit of open defecation and construct Individual House Hold Latrine (IHHL) and community toilets in order to maintain health and hygiene.

Balijan PHED JE B Bagra advised the villagers to improve civic sense and also encouraged the women to participate in awareness campaign on cleanliness.

Such kind of awareness campaign will go a long way in educating the villagers on the need of maintaining health and hygiene, said ASM Tad Nakap. He assured  the department and NGO to extend all possible help in their endeavour to  bring awareness among the masses.

The resource person and chairman of Rural Development and Heritage Society (RDHS) Tamchi Niania called upon the villagers  to make the total sanitation programme a grand success in the area.

All the panchayat leaders, head gaon burahs, gaon burahs and general public participated in the awareness campaign. The last campaign will be held for Tobung Balijan panchayat  on February 25.

 

 

DDSE continues his school visit

AALO,  Feb 24: West Siang DDSE Tomi Doke  has conducted a whirlwind tour to Tirbin, Padi, Daring, Rumdo area from February 18 to 20 to assess the condition  of the  schools and their functioning in the area. He was accompanied by ADEO Moli Tato and other officers during his visit.

At Tirbin, the school management committee and local administration demanded the DDSE to send back all 13 SSA teachers at Tirbin who were posted at Aalo and Basar without relievers.

The DDSE also visited Yimar Riba Residential School, Padi under Daring circle on invitation of school management committee. The committee which is running this private institute for last three years, requested the DDSE to take necessary steps for Govt recognition of the residential school.

The team also inspected RMSA building construction work at Govt. Secondary School, Daring.

At Rumdo village, the panchayat leaders and GB of eight villages, namely, Takom, Jirigi, Kagi, Rumdo, Ragi, Moba, Tedu, Sodo placed a demand for up-gradation of  present Community School to primary school and appointment of class XII passed community workers as SSA teachers.

The DDSE is also personally monitoring  the functioning of all the schools of Aalo township and supervising the internal examination. DIPRO

Action against CS demanded

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: A Papu-Nallah, Naharlagun based construction company, in a letter, has urged the Arunachal Pradesh Governor to initiate action against the Chief Secretary for issuing order for re-tendering of the work of ‘infrastructure development of Aalo township road’ 'without conducting any inquiry into the matter and any approval and consultation with the departmental minister as well as chief minister'.

“The manner and haste in which the order for re-tendering has been issued without considering the relevant facts smacks of malafide intention on the part of the Chief Secretary to help his relatives whose workers had failed to submit bids on time,” said a copy of the memorandum made available to the press. It reiterated that there was no hindrance from any quarters in submitting the bids on January 17 last and three firms including M/s TK Enterprises had submitted their bid without any hindrance from any quarters, it said and sought the Governor’s intervention for issuing necessary directions to the Chief Secretary to recall the order till such time the relevant reports are placed to the authorities concerned.

 

Society opposes  project, cries foul

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: Claiming that the proposed  anti-erosion  project  at  Parang,  Pollang Nguriangung and Totpu  village under Totpu Panchayat of Parang administrative circle under Papumpare  is non-beneficial to the people,  Totpu Panchayat  Youth Welfare Society opposed the proposed project saying that project is going to implement without due consultation of the concern villagers. Alleging favouritism by the authorities, it said that despite letter was served against the project a month ago, the authority did not pay heed to their grievances.

 

Training successfully conducted

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: A month-long training on capacity building and skill development programme for textile and cane  and  bamboo products concluded successfully at Pasighat on February 17.  The  programme was sponsored by the National Centre for Design and Product Development, Delhi and conducted by the East Siang District Industry Centre.

 

Nurses demand release of allowances

ITANAGAR, Feb 24:  Arunachal Pradesh State branch of Trained Nurses Association of India (TNAI) has made fervent appeal to the authority for immediate release of allowance under the 6th pay commission for nurses working under various cluster health centre and primary health centre across the state.

Expressing its anguish, the state branch TNAI stated the dedication made by various nurses are denied by the state health department. Further,  the  association also requested the authority to appoint the trained nurses in various health centres and hospitals of the state on priority basis.

 

Nyokum at Ziro

Ziro, Feb 24:  The Nyishis residing in the district headquarters of Lower Subansiri, Ziro, celebrated the Pre-Nyokum Festival  for 2012.

All the government employees, including few public residing in Ziro valley attended the celebration held at the Subansiri Stadium at Hapoli.

Tilling Dolley, ZPM reminisced fondly about his long association with his Nyishi brethren over the years and at the same time pointed out that today they have made much stride in almost every field.

D K Das, Additional Deputy Commissioner also spoke on the occasion.

 

Siram exhorts teachers to discharge duty

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: Attending the silver jubilee celebration of Govt Middle School, Emchi, Doimukh yesterday, Education Minister Bosiram Siram exhorted the teaching community to discharge their duty sincerely with dedication for improving the education scenario of the state.

Describing the huge responsibilities of teachers in moulding a child to become a responsible citizen, Siram said teachers are nation builders as the future of the children and their formation is in their hands.

Siram advised the students to study hard to survive in today’s cutthroat competitive age.

While highlighting the present education scenario of the state, the minister assured to upgrade the Emchi Middle School to secondary level.

The minister sough cooperation of the public as well as government officers and officials in implementing the state government’s plans and programmes smoothly.

Local MLA and Parliamentary Secretary (Planning and Development) Nabam Rebia said that he desires to have a Govt college within Doimukh circle. While assuring his all possible help and support for the development of the school, Rebia appealed to all not to encroach school land.

Nabam Gungte, Superintendent of Police, TT Tara, DDSE, Papum Pare, ZPM Yupia and EAC Doimukh were present on the occasion, among others.

 

Students demand proper demarcation

Correspondent

TEZU, Feb 24: The Indira Gandhi Government College Students Union (IGGCSU) has demanded proper demarcation of the college campus to stop frequent encroachment.

Handing over a memorandum to Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Mukut Mithi during his visit here on February 14, IGGCSU president Roshman Tawsik said there is neither security fencing nor boundary wall around the campus.

The union has alleged the encroachment is motivated by vested interests and said the frequent movement of outsiders inside the campus is adversely affecting the academic sanctity of the institution.

The IGG college has completed its 25 glorious years of existence and is the third largest college in the state. But it is facing acute shortage of infrastructure.

 

URO group launches bike

KOLKATA, Feb 24: The URO Group, a leading organization, has launched its motor bike, water purifier and generator for Indian market at affordable prices on Saturday 18. The occasion was graced by Bollywood actors and once the hit pair of the Hindi film industry - Govinda and Karishma Kapoor.

Talking about the products, Managing Director of URO Group Biswapriya Giri, said: "Our products 'Bike Ureka' has a high definition in-built technology, 'U-Pure' comes with a highly effective RO system Water Purifier and 'U Power' (generator) comes with the latest technology and probability." The price range of Ureka (Bike) starts at Rs 40,000-42,000 and the range of U-Pure (Water Purifier) starts at Rs 42,000.

Giri further said the URO Group has plans to reach ‘Fame of success’ as the vision of the company. "We take ownership not only in the quality of the product but also the process which creates an excellent product enhancing relationship between the product and consumer. We are continuously striving to improve the products with acquisition of latest designing and testing software of modern IT systems," he added.

Sushavan Das, Infotech Head and Mrigen Banerjee, Autotech Head of URO Group said, "Customer service is our focus with extensive training of store staff, customer response and research management."

 

DC urged not to release bill

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: All Langbang Sera Yarba Pado and Sigriang Youth Association has urged the Kurung Kumey deputy commssioner/engineer concerned not to release bill to the contractors against construction of Rest House at Pai Hogu under BADP fund.

It alleged that the contractor has constructed a Kacha house instead of SP type building in the name of rest house.

 

‘No bribery in police recruitment’

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: Alleging involvement of bribery in the police recruitment drive being conducted in Tirap and Changlang districts, the Arunachal Anti-Corruption Sena, Tirap unit has appealed to the authorities concerned to ensure that no bribery is taken place in the police recruitment drive.

 

Relief sought for fire victims

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: All Tator-Tani Area Welfare Society in a release informed that four houses and a grocery shop were gutted in a fire accident at Dugi village under Gusar circle of Upper Subansiri district at around 1 am on Friday. It appealed to the district authority to provide immediate relief to the victims for their quick rehabilitation. It also appealed for an inquiry into the accident.

 

NPF demands land allotment certificates for permanent dwellers

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: Nyishi People’s Forum (NPF) has demanded the state government to issue land allotment certificates to those who are permanently residing in capital complex instead of ‘Temporary Residing Certificate’.

The Forum also demanded the government to issue PRCs to the children, students, businessmen of Nyishi community of Nyishi inhabited areas since the document is very important for all purposes.

 

AKKDSU demands immediate arrest of all accused

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: All Kurung Kumey District Students’ Union (AKKDSU) has demanded the law enforcing authority to arrest the rest of the accused in fund misappropriation case in Art and Culture Department immediately.

AKKDSU also demanded the authority concerned to put the arrested persons on a non-bailable terms till the inquiry is over. The students union demanded to shoulder the responsibility of the investigation to CBI or Special Investigation Team and recover the misappropriated amount immediately.

 

Shiv Mandir inaugurated

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: West Seppa MLA Tani Loffa has inaugurated the newly built Goreshwar Shiva Mandir (temple) at G-Sector, Naharlagun on February 21.

Large number of devotees including PHE and WS (WZ) chief engineer Geyum Padu, Parliamentary Secretary, Tax and Excise, Lokam Tassar, Chayang Tajo MLA Karya Bagang and BRTF 756 Commander J K Dewedy took part in the inaugural function which was organized by the All Arunachal Hindus Faith  and Culture Development Organization. The dignitaries present on the occasion assured the organization to extend cooperation for infrastructure development of Lingalaya  Seva Ashram  here and Hindu Pilgrimage centers of the state.

Pran Prathishtha ceremony of the Shiva idol was performed by the organization chairman K P Dolo on February 20.

 

Peaceful dharna

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: All Lower Subansiri Students’ Union (ALSSU) has decided to stage a peaceful dharna at district headquarter Ziro on February 29 to register its protest against the district authorities failure to initiate  action against the Government land encroachers in the district.

ALSSU had given the district authority 15 days time to evict the government land encroachers in entire district including Raga and Yachuli which expired on February 16.

 

Federation seeks authority’s help

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: All Arunachal Pradesh Public Transport Federation (AAPPTF), Lower Subansiri District unit  has appealed to the district administration to take appropriate measures to against unnecessary harassment to Sumo drivers by Assam police at various checking points.

In a letter to Lower Subansiri Deputy Commissioner, AAPPTF district unit said that Assam police unnecessarily harassed the Sumo drivers and collected money from them and other commuters  on pretext of security checking in various places on Itanagar- Ziro via Lakhimpur (Assam) route.  It further said that motor vehicle inspectors are also using similar tactics to collect money from drivers and commuters by taking advantage of closure of Potin-Doimukh road due to ongoing highway road construction.  

 

Training on micro finance concluded

ITANAGAR, Feb 24: Two days training on micro-finance vision 2011 for ICDS functionaries concluded at Institute for Rural Development (SIRD) convention hall concluded here yesterday. It was organized by Papum Pare district Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) Cell, Yupia and sponsored by the department of social welfare, women and child development and NABARD.  

Chairing the inaugural function Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women member Y. Kullo emphasized on the importance of women education and its empowerment.  Deputy Director ICDS Cell P E Angu highlighted the objectives of training programme. The training was attended by various CDPOs, supervisors and Anganwadi workers.

 

Society bans fishing & hunting

ITANAGAR, Feb 24:  In its attempt to preserve wildlife in its area, All Shahrijo Pobo and Yitor Youth Welfare Association has imposed ban on hunting and fishing by using explosive and deadly chemicals like bleaching powder in the streams. In a release Association stated that  the violators of  the ban order will face penalty.

 

DTF  meet on measles catch-up campaign

SEPPA, Feb 24: The 2nd meeting of District Task Force on Measles Catch-up campaign was held here yesterday. All the  DTF members and HODs of the district took part in it.

Presiding over the meeting ADC Tage Tado appealed to one and all to extend co-operation to District Health Society for success of the Measles Catch-up campaign. He urged the health functionaries like ASHA to make people aware of not only vaccination campaign but also of other health related programmes and policies of the Govt at village level and also assured to provide necessary assistance from district administration as and when required during vaccination drive.

DRCHO Dr. K Lapung, while highlighting a progress and problems of the vaccination drive at various places in the district informed that about 15,000 children under age group of months to 10 years were to be covered under Measles Catch-up campaign. He also explained in details on logistic requirements, manpower and selection of proper vaccination site for grand success of the campaign. District Programme Manager Taba Yokum also spoke on the occasion. DIPRO

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Green clearance without people's consent

In a recent study, Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) had analyzed the clearances granted by the Union ministry of environment and forests over the last five years and came out with some startling findings. In the last five years the country saw more clearances than those planned for even during the 11th and 12th Five Year Plans, it says.

According to CSE analysis, green clearances are not working for the environment – clearances are being awarded despite destruction of environment and livelihoods of the people. In fact, there seem to be concerted efforts by government and industry to dilute the already existing weak processes.

However,  most of the NGO representatives attending the ‘Dialogue on Green Clearances’ being organized by the Centre for Science and Environment at National Capital believe that the consent of the people is a ‘must’ before granting clearances  and, therefore, the public hearing process is extremely crucial. The process, as it stands now, is a mere eyewash and a formality that actually excludes people as stakeholders.

The other key demands of these activists include a call for cumulative impact assessments and for reforming the EIA process – most importantly, the post-clearance monitoring.

CSE researchers are of the opinion that there should be a moratorium on clearances in all the areas that have been declared critically polluted by the Central Pollution Control Board. They also say that cumulative impact assessments must be done on all major rivers before giving clearances to dams.

Look into our needs

Dear Editor,

‘India is a rural country and agriculture is our gold’. But in today’s India these quotes doesn’t fit anymore. That’s what is happening in the recent examination pattern. A recent example came up during the JE-Examinations, WRD where the students from Agricultural Department found it really tough to crack the questions related to the Civil Engineering. The problem basically arises due to the question pattern. The syllabus for the Civil and Agricultural Department is similar.

During the examinations, every time most of the questions are being asked from the Civil Branch like this year due to which the Agricultural students had to suffer a lot. Though the question pattern is made such because of the content of the departments are similar in various fields. But still, it will be unfair to ask an Agricultural student to solve a paper where 75% of the questions are related to the Civil branch. The anguished faces of the Agricultural students after examinations said it all. It is high time certain rectifications are made in the question pattern or a separate pattern is introduced for both the branches for providing them with equal prospective of competing in the examination.

In the present scenario, we can clearly watch the true conditions of the Agricultural engineering students where they are suffering from lack of job opportunities. Still if we have to face such humiliation in the JE Exam for RWD, then we are left with no other option other than remaining unemployed for the rest of our lives even after qualifying as an ‘engineer’. So, it’s an appeal to the concerned authority to reserve at least 50% seats in RWD and WRD for the Agricultural engineers.  

Yours,

Mai Aram, NERIST

 

 

The questionable tender process

Dear Editor,

This is regarding political manipulation and sycophantic maneuvers of a government officer in the tendering process for proposed Khenewa to Nampe road (35 km) in East Kameng district under PMGSY.

About five months back, I had participated in the tender bid for the construction of the said road, which took place at the Rupa Circle Superintendent Engineer's (SE) office in Rupa (West Kameng). I had submitted/uploaded all the required documents for the technical bid on 20th July 2011 and the bid was opened on 25th July 2011. -

Surprisingly, the then RWD SE, who was also the chairman of the Tender Board, manipulated the procedures to the advantage of one M/s Gakhil Construction, which was actually the weakest bidder under political pressure - this at a time when the SE himself was under suspension over some official matter.

Even though the firm was not in possession of proper sensitive as well as non-sensitive documents, the SE intentionally lengthened the bidding process by forwarding the matter to the CE for his decision, even though the process officially and legally should have been completed in the SE's office itself.

Fifteen days back, the RWD CE constituted a five-member committee headed by CEO ARRDA, to look into the impasse, with clear directions to have the matter resolved within 10 days. However, the committee is yet to come to any decision. Meanwhile, it is learnt that strong political pressure, including intimidation, is being exerted on the members of the committee to ensure that either the tender is offered to M/s Gakhil Constructions, or to re-tender the  work.

However, in view of the cost escalation coupled with the fact of the working season coming to an end, the decision that would be in the interest of justice and to the benefit of the village concerned would be to offer the work to the most proven among the three firms - M/s JC Construction Pvt. Ltd, M/s Tamchi Kusuk and M/s Gakhil Construction - that are bidding for the contract.

The people of at least seven Village - Pabing, Pordung, Khenewa, Pangia, Marjingla, Jokhio, Jamoh, Nampe and Lamnio - who stand to directly benefit from the proposed road, have been waiting with high expectation for the work to begin. To order a re-tender at this juncture would be unwise and untenable.

Through your esteemed daily, I would appeal to the conscience of Chief Minister to ensure that such activities being carried out for the personal benefit of a few are nipped in the bud, so that they do not leave a stain on the image of the `People First' government that carries the hopes and aspirations of the state's poor on its able shoulders.

I would also request the business community of the state to unite in discouraging political interference in the matter of bidding tenders. We must not allow such precedent to take place, lest we should suffer far-reaching, debilitating consequences to the state's development.

In this regard there was a Press Release on Feb 14 in the local dailies of the Arunachal issued by two organizations giving four days ultimatum to declare the bid result without ordering re-tender.

Even though the ultimatum period has expired, no action has been taken yet. So I would like to appeal to the organizations to exercise for the next move.

I being a bidder also served legal notice to the authority concerned.

Yours,

Ramjo Pordung

Naharlagun

 

 

The pain of parting away with the ancestral land  

Dear Editor,

In fact it is a matter of shame for the Arunachal govt that a reader has to write to AAPSU for the border dispute. Of course, AAPSU has been spearheading the movements for the Arunachal denizens apart from their strive for the betterment of students. But is the AAPSU right body to be appealed regarding this? Is our state govt. just a silent and mute spectator in this border fiasco which has been happening since the ages?

Visit any border area and you can witness vast tracts of land which our forefathers have passed on since generation being occupied by the Assam. They have constructed govt establishments and set up police station while our shameless government has no qualms in parting with our ancestral land. All they have to do from preventing the land grabbers occupying our land is set up police stations and send our Arunachal Police and IRBN on vigilance on the Assam Arunachal boundary.

As I write this with my head hung low, I can't even fathom the shamelessness of the authorities and the hatred brewing inside me for having to part away with our land.

Yours,

An Arunachalee, Itanagar

 

 

Issue safety guidelines

Dear Editor,

Just thinking of so many artisan wells being rampantly dug these days cause a sizzling fear. It is an impending danger that most of the people are ignoring at present. Just think, more than 50 – 60 feet down below earth, whose depth would be equivalent to those of 5 – 6 storeys tall building. It is doubtful if any safety norms are adopted. What if, some ignorant children slip in?

These wells are very commonly dug. One will find it at every nook and corner, even market places. Reason could be various. May be water supply department is unable to cater to the needs of population, may be people want to avoid water charges, or maybe they are not getting water supply connection. Whatsoever may be the reason, too many holes are being percolated inside the earth. Earth has almost become a strainer. But danger is lurking in the future if these wells are left unused and becomes remnants. So many incidents have occurred worldwide. Most popular one was that of Prince in India. But tragedies in future are not going to be popular as that one. It would be as burying alive.

My relevance is Itanagar capital complex. In my opinion, every well should be registered by name in the disaster management Department. At least a rough norms should be adopted, such as ring quality, diameter, rescue option, depth etc. Owner of the well should be responsible for any incident. When wells are no longer in use, it should be filled up and a clearance obtained from the Department. At least a beginning should be done, that too immediate, before any disaster occurs.

Yours,

D Chaling, Naharlagun

 

 

Enlighten us about your RR

Dear Editor,

I would like to ask the Directorate of Horticulture regarding the exam conducted on Dec 2011 and viva-voce on 17th of February 2012 for the post of Recorder-cum-Surveyor and Grafter.

Are you following the usual Recruitment Rule of 1:3 for viva-voce like any other departments of Arunachal Pradesh or you have an independent Recruitment Rule quite different from others? If you have a different Recruitment Rule, please enlighten us about your R.R. I was really surprised when I came to know that 23 candidates were selected for viva-voce against the single post of Recorder-cum-surveyor and 10 candidates against 2 posts of grafter. If the department follows the usual 1:3 R.R then what was the reason for calling 23 candidates and 10 candidates against one and two posts respectively.

This really has surprised, confused and discouraged me lot. This has cost me my valuable time, money and emotions.

Yours,

A job aspirant

Itanagar

 

 

 

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----Editor