January  31

Kidnapping and extortion on the rise in Lohit

Taba Ajum

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: Once the most peaceful,  the Lohit district is witnessing serious law and order problem in recent days. There have been numerous reports of kidnapping and extortion from Lohit district.  Most of the cases go unreported in media as locals fear that anti-social elements might target them for exposing their ill-deeds.

The Tilangkyong village under Wakro circle in Lohit district has witnessed two kidnapping related incidents in the last 2 months.

The latest incident took place on January 29. As per report, four armed persons came to the house of one Sodruk Chikro, who is a teacher of Govt primary school Tilangkyong, around 2 PM. Fortunately he was out of station at that time. After making detailed enquiry about teacher, the kidnappers left but not before firing four rounds of bullets in the air.

Further they placed ransom demand in front of villagers with a threat to gun them down if the demands are not met. Each household of the village has been asked to pay Rs 1 lac as ransom money.

Lohit district administration has rushed in army and police to the area.

“We are terrified with this latest demand. Most of us are poor villagers who depend on farming for livelihood. From where we will manage one lac rupees? We might have to abandon our home and leave the area. Arunachal Government need to protect us,” told one local villager.

The first kidnapping incident reportedly took place on Dec 20, 2011. On that day one Khuye Ngadong of Tilangkyong village was kidnapped at gun point from his home.   He was taken to Tayeng River situated near the village and was with kidnapper throughout the night. The next day when police and army personnel arrived in the area, out of panic the kidnapper let him go. As per the report there were four kidnappers.

When contacted, Lohit police sources confirmed the report.

“We believe that kidnappers were carrying pistol and single barrel muzzle gun. It is hard to pin point which organization are behind this kidnapping. We doubt that some local group along with the help of underground elements from neighbouring state are carrying out such anti-social act in the district” informed Lohit police officials.

“When we conducted search operation in the area after rescuing the victim, we found many materials”, officials further added. According to the locals, the villages of Wakro circle are covered by dense forest which makes it safe haven for ultras to operate.

“Since 1990, many villagers have felt the presence of UG group in the area. Often whenever we go to forest we bump into people with military fatigue.  But they never troubled us before. However in recent days our life has been made miserable by anti-social elements,” informed local villagers. The villagers are demanding for permanent deployment of police and army personnel in the area.

On their part district administration has expressed inability to deploy force permanently because of less police force available with them. Situated adjacent to insurgency affected Changlang district, the Lohit district is finally feeling the heat of ultras. The state government need to act fast before Lohit turns into another Tirap and Changlang.  

 

Tadar Tang Memorial State Level Football Tournament

Capital Complex to take on Papum Pare in final

NAHARLAGUN, Jan 30: A strong Capital Complex team would take on Papum Pare in the final  match of Tadar Tang Memorial State Level Football Championship on Feb 1 at Rajiv Gandhi stadium.

In the semis, Papum Pare beat Upper Subansiri by two goals to nil.

Techi Takar and Raba Rakesh netted a goal each in  the 4th and 31st minutes for Papum Pare.

In the second semi final, Capital Complex beat the three times champion Kurung Kumey by 1-0. Page Tashi (jersey no. 17) scored the goal for Capital Complex in the 79th minute.

 

Championship clash

Papum Pare  vs Capital Complex

1st Feb at 1330 hrs

 

Results

Kurung Kumey - 0, Capital Complex-1

 

Papum Pare - 2, Upper Subansiri - 0

 

 

Govt enhance stipends of students

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: Much to the joy of student community, Arunachal Pradesh Govt has decided to enhance the stipends starting from schools to the Postgraduate level.

This decision was taken after a meeting between members of All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU) led by its president Takam Tatung and General Secretary Tujom Poyom  and the representatives of state Govt which included Education Minister Bosiram Siram, Parliamentary Secretary, Home, Gadam Ete, political secretary to CM, Bamang Tago, Directors of Higher Education, School Education, Civil Supplies and  Deputy SPD(SSA).

Earlier,  AAPSU had threatened to go on strike starting from February 2 demanding enhancement of stipend and immediate release of SSA teacher’s salary. The meeting lasted for more than 4 hours with heated debate between members of AAPSU and govt representatives.  

As per the proposed revised version, the stipend of meritorious college students with 60% marks and above has been enhanced from present Rs 380 per month to Rs 830 while the rest of the students will get Rs 735 in place of present Rs 380.

For school students too stipend has been enhanced. Students from Class I-V will get Rs 560 a month in place of present Rs 360, Class VI to VIII students will get Rs 575 in place of  Rs 375 and class IX to XII students will receive Rs  600 in place of Rs 400. The Govt has also agreed to release the stipend on monthly basis. This is for the first time that state government has enhanced the stipend of students to such a high. During the meeting, the Govt also assured to streamline the PDS items in the state.

While appreciating the state government for agreeing to the long felt demand of the union, AAPSU president Takam Tatung stated that the union has deferred its proposed bandh call on February 2.  “Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has promised to look after all the demands placed by AAPSU regarding student related welfares. We will wait and if our concerns are not addressed properly, AAPSU will continue the democratic movement,” said Tatung. He also informed that AAPSU will monitor the PDS item.

Further Tatung has called on planning and finance department to make single window clearance for files related to education department.

 

SSA enhanced salary set to be released

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: During a meeting with Arunachal Teachers’ Association (ATA) and All Arunachal Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Teachers’ Association (AASSATA) today, the Education Minister Bosiram Siram has directed the SSA Rajya Mission to immediately release one month’s salary at enhanced rate. He informed that the Arunachal Govt has released Rs.25 crores towards state share last week basing on which the state would receive the central grants very shortly. As and when fund from the Center is received, the arrears along with enhanced salary till March 2012 would be released.

AASSATA had earlier given an ultimatum with 2 points demand which includes release of enhanced salary and regularization of 2003 batch SSA teachers at one go.

With regard to regularization of services, the minister has assured the delegates that he would personally lead a team of AASSATA to request the Chief Minister for creation of required number of posts so that the services of 2003 batch SSA teachers can be regularized at one go.

Siram has requested the AASSATA to withdraw the proposed pen down strike as he exhorted the SSA teachers to dedicate themselves for education of Arunachalee students and has pledged full support and sympathy to their cause.

 

Remote CO Hq along Myanmar border connected by BSNL

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: The 63rd Republic Day was a watershed for the people of remote Lazu area for reasons more than one. The people’s joy knew no bounds when local MLA and PS, DoTC and SWWCD, Yumsen Matey inaugurated the BSNL Tower at Lazu amidst a thunderous applause from the huge crowd.

It is worth-mentioning here that Myanmar is situated at a stone’s throw distance from Lazu due to which movement of insurgents through the porous borders is frequent, at times disturbing the prevailing peace of the area.

Matey said that installation of BSNL tower at Lazu was a milestone and was a long-felt need of the people adding that the BSNL would go a long way in connecting the people living outside. He added “Living far away from one another, we will yet remain close, thanks to BSNL.”

Earlier, Matey unfurled the National Tricolour and in his address, emphasized on spread of quality education. He lamented the alarmingly low literacy rate of entire Lazu area and appealed to the parents and teachers to leave no stone unturned in guiding the students properly to make them worthy citizens of the country. The chief guest also announced amidst cheers that Lazu CO HQ would be upgraded to EAC headquarters shortly for which he thanked the state government on behalf of the people.

Other highlights of the day included games and sports and cultural programmes. However, the main attraction was the final volleyball match played between Kolam and Lazu which was won by the former.

 

Public hearing on trans-Arunachal highway

DC calls for cooperation for successful implementation of  highway project

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: Papum Pare district administration conducted a series of public hearing cum meeting on the proposed Trans-Arunachal Highway for Leporiang, Sagalee and Toru circles on January 20, 23 and 30 respectively.

Presiding over the meetings, DC Pige Ligu appealed to all the affected land owners and public to cooperate with the authorities for successful completion of highway project. He called upon the people not to ponder over the meager compensation against construction of road as the roads are the lifeline of any development.  

All sort of problems, if any, need to be solved through dialogue without taking the law in hand, the DC said adding any kind of major development requires some minor sacrifices too.

Citing the benefit of roads, he said it will be only one hour’s journey from Sagalee to Itanagar after completion of the highway project.

Papum Pare LR and SO Techi Hitlar explained in length the method of compensation assessment.  He called upon the affected people not to be suspicious about the survey team which will be starting compensation assessment under RoW from first week of February for the 108 km stretch from Khodaso to Hoj.  Informing that the compensation rate for the project affected people was uniformly notified by the state government for whole state, he said compensation rates cannot be changed on the basis categories of land and asset. Copies of Govt. notified rates for compensation were distributed to the members  who were present in the meetings.

 Highlighting the background of the Trans-Arunachal Highway and  need  for successful implementation of such important project,  Highway SE S Sumyan exhorted general public to cooperate with authorities for early implementation of it.

Papum Pare SP Nabam Gungte  said the Trans-Arunachal Highway project is of national importance especially for defense force. He, however, said that stern action will be taken against  any individual who tends to violate law and order.

ZPMs of respective circle also spoke on the occasion and assured cooperation with  the district administration and PWD(Highway) authorities.

Among others, Sagalee ADC  Chukhu Tallar,  EE PWD (highway) Khoda Gyati,  Circle Officers and ZMP of respective circle were present on the occasion, according to an official release.

 

All efforts on for sustainable development: Pema

Parang to get Primary Health Centre

Parang, Jan 30: Development and governance being the watch words of the Government, all out efforts are being made to bring in sustainable development in all nook and corners of the State, said  RWD  and  Tourism Minister Pema Khandu today after laying the foundation stone of  30 bedded Primary Health Centre  at Parang circle HQ under Sagalee sub-division of Papum Pare district amidst  huge gathering.  The PHC is funded by NEC at a projected cost of Rs. 4.90 Crore.

Pema also urged the RWD, the executing agency of the project,  to strictly  maintain the quality of work. He further appealed to the people of the area for adopting modern method of agriculture and horticulture for self-employment, as the area is congenial both geographically and climatically for large scale farming. “Tourism being one of the prime growth engine of the state, shall be made more people participatory through PPP mode in the entire state and this area too will be reaping the benefits of this fastest growing industry soon” emphasized the Tourism Minister.

Taba Talo, Head GB of Parang circle while speaking on the occasion, credited  construction of PHC as a developmental activity initiated by former CM Late Dorjee Khandu who was the man behind creation of the Circle headquarter and thereby ushering development in the circle at par with other areas.

 

When poetry fills the air

The crescendo of singing and spectacle of dancing around the three bonfires lit in the cold winter night in the party prompted the mind to soar and the heart to rejoice. Though the setting for the two consecutive nights was different, the plot and the story were the same: singing of ponung through unleashing of the free-flowing imagination of the singers even as dancers, dressed in their best attires, swayed in synchronized steps, their faces glowing now, and silhouetted then, around the smoldering logs.

Apongs flow generously as chattering instantly rises, often threatening to subdue the gusto of music. Singers change guard, lead songs vary, and so the dance steps. Smiles abound, ruby eyes roll round zestfully, and for a moment the world is a joyous, beautiful place.

Singing of folk songs, be it Ponung, Delong, or Bari, is a combination of mastery of the language and ability to compose verbal lyrics spontaneously. There’s more poetry in ponung than dance and no doubt good singers are always revered.

There were some excellent singers. But the one singer that magnetized all was a tall local youth who jangled his sword like the sewing machine, producing rhythmical and calibrated music and in tune with his nimble feet movement and tempo of the songs. He sidled, tripped along the circle of dancers and moved his feet in rhythmical steps as he clattered his sword effortlessly in tune with the cadence of his songs. It was simply magical.

There was poetry not only in the conference and the parties but also in the air. Miris, as they are called, the balladeers, are natural poets who weave poetry out of their history, environments, and settings, in beautiful, rhythmical refrains that are sung from generation to generation. As we were returning from Yingkiong and were crossing a rocky portion of the winding road, a friend reminded us about how a popular song (often sung unconsciously) described about that particular ‘stiff, rocky face’ of the terrain beside the Siang. The song goes on like this, ‘Aiye, Nyobo gero adie, go-ne lipiko ko seyinge’. Similarly many other songs are composed and sung by unknown and unacknowledged Miris about birds and animals, swaying, levitating wild plantain leaves and mundane human sorrows and joys. Their versatility and fecundity is extremely awesome. Beyond caste

and places

The two-day conference held at Yingkiong to give a proper shape to the evolving Adi script and to develop its language witnessed a flurry of creative activities that included delivery of mock-up Kongki Bote speech by Amar Chetry, (who I know since long and consider to be more local than many), and recitation of Adi poems by Girin Tamuli, who composes Adi poems and lyrics. Both of them speak Adi and have blended into the local environment as sugar into milk.

Amar presented a sample of Aabey or Kongki Bote, a rhetorical form of speech delivered in Kebangs and big gatherings in lyrical, ‘poetical’ language, drawing huge applause from the bewildered crowd. Girin Tamuli recited one of his poems which had been adopted as flag song of Adi Agom Kebang (Adi Literary Society). His song begins like this: Bidung tagir-e dirdokom/ Gomung tagir-e dirmaye/ Bomong naneke dudumem/ Adi agom-e duyarye…(The physical body might die/ but the words will not die/ Adi language will live forever/ so long as the mother sun shines..)

Literature is all about human imagination and feelings, beyond caste and places. While religion and politics divide minds and profess doctrines and ideologies, it is literature that connects hearts and souls of humanity through common humane feelings and imagination.

Yellow gold in the hills

The 180km snaky road from Pasighat to Yingkiong beside the majestic blue Siang facilitates the traveler to glimpse an idea of the abundance of orange productions in the region. Because of the suitable climatic conditions and terrain, yield of the yellow gold in the area is enormous, which are still visible in roadside gardens and villages. I asked a few villagers as to why so many oranges are still not plucked, some of them rotting. “There are not enough buyers from outside; they simply can’t buy all the oranges, though 25/30 trucks carry them daily from the villages,” one of them said.

Guests are offered oranges along with apong and prodded to carry a few baskets home. We brought in the subject of investment of agro-based industries but had to stop halfway as it connotes adequate power supply and good communication. Naturally, it intrudes into the vexed hydro-power issue that naturally generates strong and diverse views among people.

Tailpiece

A class two student in a village school asked his teacher what ‘union territory’ meant.

The teacher dismissed his pupil’s question and went about his lesson. But the student persisted so the teacher finally said, “This is not important; I will not set this in your exam.”

The obstinate pupil said, “But Sir, this is in our textbook and so I would like to know its meaning.”

The teacher (one of those old-time ones called Hindi teachers) averted his pupil’s inquisitive eyes and looked around vacuously before explaining the meaning of the two words.

“Union territory means ‘union’ such as you saw in your village a few days back. If you rightly recall, the besieged teacher continued, “a group of students belonging to certain union, came here and conducted social service and cultural programme. There were also many speeches.  Do you now understand its meaning?”

“Yes Sir! Perfectly.” His pupil replied.

 

Euphoria at Seppa as heroes get due recognition

Amar Sangno

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: Till sometime back, East Kameng district was popular amongst fellow Arunachalees for all the wrong reasons. It is said that government officials shuddered even to think about being posted at Seppa. Slated alongside Tirap-Changlang, it is said that politicians and bureaucrats threatened officers with posting to the district! However, abusive sobriquet is no longer used by officials or by politicians as demonstrated ample during the 63rd Republic Day celebration.

The youths of  the district unequivocally proved that gone are the bad days as they dominated in the state award list, which was given to them in recognition  to their brave act in saving many lives during the tragic times when a suspension bridge collapsed on  Oct 29, 201, which left 15 persons dead, 11 critically injured and many more maimed. The victims had gone to the bridge to collect Tari, an insect delicacy when the incident happened.

After the terrible tragedy, Seppa has reason to smile and to some extent the pain has been eased by the act of the government in recognizing those citizens who came out to help.

Takang Blage, Ashok Rang, Bharat Rang and Gopal Sangdo were honoured with the state gold medal and Lohit Sangdo, Hungla Sangdo, Sajan Sangdo, Marchi Kocho and Ragi Rang  were awarded the silver medal while Desam Kocho, Prem Bayang, Rohit Bayang and Gomto Beyong were honoured with commendation certificates for saving precious lives during the bridge collapse.

In fact it is a rare moment in the history of the state that thirteen persons were honoured from a single district in the Republic Day celebration. What these citizens did was truly inspirational and remarkable. The gesture of the government is encouraging too and it would definitely inspire valiant teenagers to do more courageous acts for the society.  

The Youths who have been awarded expressed their gratitude to the district administration, The Arunachal Times and the state government.

“I never thought we would be honoured by the state government for our little effort” said elated Takang Blage. He disclosed that the horrifying scene of bridge collapse and subsequent chaos after darkness fell still haunts his mind. He says that he wants to push back the disturbing memories to a distant corner.  

“It is really inspiring and encouraging for youths of state”, said Sacha Rang, father of Bharat Rang.

Though the incident has left indelible scar because of the gravity of human casualty for mere insects, the recognition means a lot to the youth and entire East Kameng and the state.  

 

Lead by example: Governor

Two-day tour of Upper Subansiri

ITANAGAR, Jan 30:  Arunachal Pradesh Governor General (Retd) JJ Singh, who is on a two-day visit to Upper Subansiri district laid the foundation stone for the construction of Labour and Employment Office and District Election Office building, Daporijo today. The Governor also inaugurated the newly renovated Rijo House, Daporijo on the day.

The Governor and First Lady Anupama Singh also visited the Vivekananda Kendriya Vidhyalay, Kupporijo on the first day of their tour.

Interacting with the students, the Governor advised them that hard work, dedication, being a good human being and taking initiative are some important traits that will lead to a path of success.

He also told the students to set a goal in life and then work hard towards its achievement.

The Governor also added that being the future of the state, the students have to lead by example. They should treat their teachers, parents and elders with respect in order to gain their respect. He also advised the students to abstain from deed and bad habits.

The first lady, who also interacted with the children, advised the students that they should work hard and at the same time should also take a keen interest in games, sports, dance, music etc. She also added that it was the duty of all to keep or environment and surroundings clean and green.

The First Couple also answered question posed by the students during the interactive session.

Secretary to Governor Ankur Garg and Special Secretary (Finance) Swati Sharma are accompanying the Governor.

Earlier on their arrival at Daporijo, Parliamentary Secretary Punji Mara, MLA Tapen Siga, Upper Subansiri Deputy Commissioner A. Abhyankar, Superintendent of Police Apur Bitin, Heads of department, Panchayat leaders and public received them.

 

Tributes to the martyrs

Gandhi’s 64 death anniversary observed

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: Along with rest of country, the Martyr’s Day was observed at Raj Bhavan,  here  on Jan 30. Tributes were paid to martyrs who laid down their lives in India's freedom struggle. As mark of respect to those valiant sons and daughters, a two-minute silence was observed at 11.00 am on the day.

Bomdila, the district headquarters of West Kameng, joined the rest of the nation in observing the Martyrs’ Day solemnly today here at DC’s office. Rich tributes were paid to the Martyrs; known and unknown, who laid down their lives for a free & independent nation and to enable the coming generations to lead a life free from slavery and bondage.

It was on January 30, 1948 that Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated a little before sunset when he was going to attend his evening prayers.

Since Gandhi’s martyrdom on January 30, 1948, this day was declared as the Martyrs’ Day.

Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee also observed the 64th death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the Nation at Rajiv Gandhi Bhavan here today.

Addressing the gathering, Transport and Co-operation Minister Jarkar Gamlin urged all citizens to remember and follow the Gandhiji’s principles. He further said that the best way of paying homage was to dedicate themselves to Gandhiji’s values of truth, non-violence, communal harmony and services to the downtrodden.

Former Minister Eken Riba said that Gandhi was the apostle of peace who preached non-violence, tolerance and peaceful co-existence of people from divergent religious, races and castes.

APCC General Secretary Byabang Nukh and APCC Secretary Somu Linggi, Water Resource Development, Social Welfare, Women and Child Development Minister Newlai Tingkatra, APCC General Secretary Gojum Basar, Ex-servicemen Cell APCC Chairman Bagi Taja, Teacher’s Cell APCC convener Tadam Lida.

All India Rajeev Gandhi Vichar Manch International State unit Arunachal Pradesh also observed the martyrs day today.

On the occasion, AIRGVMI, State unit president Taji Kulo highlighted the life and activities of the Father of the Nation and appealed to every citizen to follow the principles of Mahatma Gandhi.

 

What ails schools of Arunachal?

Gijum Tali

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: The centre and state govt are constantly involved and pumping in huge amount of money to fulfill the prime objective of education for all within a specific time through Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Adult Education, Resource and training centres but a close and candid scrutiny of overall scenario of govt. schools in various parts of the state paints a gloomy picture. The observations in the last two decades through tour and travel reveal that some schools exists in name sake, some are defunct, dilapidated, others are without infrastructures and interestingly there are few such schools where the teachers-taught ratio is almost equal. Panacea to the problems that plague the schools haunt educationists, politicians, bureaucrats and all right thinking people but no tangible solution seems to emanate to address the core issues in a focused manner despite talks and planning doing round the corner. Hardly there are few schools visible in town areas, where scheme of things go like private schools infusing much needed dynamism and thrust into this important sector and schools fees realized from students compulsorily are judiciously used for constructive purposes.

The schools are either opened or upgraded on yearly basis at different levels without required infrastructures, teachers strength and budgetary support and this has a negative impact on educational scenario of the state as even the biggest drag on state exchequer in this sector cannot mitigate the needs of the mushrooming schools. Moreover, large percentage of trained teaching community with requisite degree and qualification at their prime age are put on administrative jobs in different Blocks to monitor functioning of schools multiplying the shortage of teachers and requires an in depth analysis on merit of such appointments.

If many of the schools in backward border circle like Monigong in West Siang and other difficult belts of the state remain defunct, light of education will never penetrate these secluded areas and at the same time we are not giving justice to them and feeling of let offs will continue to haunt them despite ambitious and biggest blueprint drawn by the centre and state govt. to ameliorate the cause of education through Sarva ShikshaAbhiyan.

The concept of Inter- Village Schools with hostel and stipend facilities for boys and girls mooted by the state govt. in some period of time is a well-conceived idea and most suitable to difficult belts so that few such schools better serve than long lists of schools which never serve our poor brethren.

This type of school will not only give conducive atmosphere of teaching and learning in the presence of large number of teachers and students than schools at door-steps with countable number of students without atmosphere of a school. It can be said for sure that the status of schools at many places, especially in the interior place is an eyesore for many who wonder what would be the fallout in the long run.

The govt. schools stood in good stead in the past when there were no private schools and few govt. schools to get education and students traveling miles together with beddings and books and it is noteworthy that many luminaries of the state then and now have come from such schools only. Today there is a made race for private schools and those who can afford, do it and those who can’t either give up or try it at the cost of sweat and tears. It is important to know that large chunk of population of our society are on unaffordable lines and the department need to evolve a lasting mechanism to bring things back on tract.

The untiring and pretty buoyed efforts put in by young West Siang Deputy Director of School Education Tomi Doke to bring about changes in the system since his joining a few months back is laudable to get much needed fillip and gives massive doses of confidence to act as catalyst in engineering positive changes. The problems within is understood to be enormous but given the time, cooperation and back up by all right thinking people, the school authority is committed to go on with his mission for the cause of education and what he is doing within a few months needs no mention and speaks volume about his will and determination.

 

Development is my single agenda: Dabii

Dere at Koyu

PASIGHAT, Jan 30: Tako Dabii, Advisor to CM, today inaugurated a Dere (Community Hall) at Koyu, newly constructed by the PWD under MLALAD fund. He was accompanied by the Deputy Commissioner Talem Tapok, ADC Nari Tasso Mibang, ZPC Yiai Dabi, Block President Takir Kakki and other party functionaries and host of officers and leaders.

Soon after the inauguration, Dabii attended a public meeting held at the village Dere and interacted with the locals to take stock of the latest developments of the area. He said such infrastructure being created by with his initiatives should be maintained properly. He further added that infrastructure including government buildings both residential and non-residential, road communication, electricity lines, water supply tank & pipes should be permanent assets once created.

While advising the students, Dabii said education is the lone wing through which one could excel in life. He stressed on meaningful and constructive value based education and further said it promotes knowledge, skills, habits and human values.

Taking privilege on the occasion, the govt. Spokesperson Dabii urged all to look forward in the process of creation of ‘Lower Siang District’ for better prospects of the community and the area. He appealed the media fraternity to refrain from biased reporting but welcomed positive criticism for greater welfare of the state. Stating only development was the single agenda; he said that all odds could be resolved amicably through intellectual-discussions and dialogues.

Earlier the Deputy Commissioner Talem Tapok in his deliberation said the people witnessed vast developments in the area during last two decades. Tapok discouraged Bandh culture and urged the people to extend their supports while implementing the state and central governments sponsored schemes and projects for the welfare of the society. DIPRO

 

ANYC calls for formal notification on proposed joint committee

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: All Nyishi Youth Association has demanded Chief Minister Nabam Tuki for immediate issuance of formal notification regarding constitution of the proposed joint committee on land allotment to Non-APSTs.

It suggested that the Land Management director be included in the committee as member secretary instead of member.

Reminding the state Govt of the meeting held with Govt representatives on  January 13 following the  joint declaration of the capital bandh on January 16 in protest against the illegal land allotment to non -APSTs, the ANYC in a memorandum to CM said that the Council was assured  of  formation of a committee in the meeting to finalize legal implication of the vexed issue of land allotment to the non-APSTs in capital complex in particular and Arunachal Pradesh in general.  But neither any formal government notification has been issued for the same nor has any meeting on the proposed committee been convened till date, the Council resented.

The proposed committee was supposed to be headed by land management Commissioner as Chairman, land deptt Secretary, Capital Complex DC, land management director Director, Itanagar MLA and ANYC president as members.

On what ground the state Govt expects us to defer or reschedule the bandh call on important issues and how the committee report will be finalized when the Govt is yet to issue a formal notification on the proposed joint committee, the council questioned.

The Council further claimed that it has unearthed more cases of illegal allotment of land to non-APSTs in capital complex, especially at Banderdewa through RTI.

The Council said plots of land were allotted to private companies, namely Assam Bengal Carriers Lt. at Naharlagun, Himatsinka Auto Enterprises, at Banderdewa.

The district administration also issued illegal land allotment to a private firm, namely, NEFA Udyog at Banderdewa, whose actual proprietor is a non-APST, the Council claimed.

The Council further said that if the actual proprietors of the aforesaid private establishments are non-APSTs, then allotment of land  to them  would be a clear violation of the clause -7 of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873.

Org gives month’s time for NEEPCO

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: Save Arunachal Youth Association (SAYA) has given a month’s time for North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Ltd (NEEPCO), Pare Hydro Electric Project (PHEP) for reconstruction of a hanging bridge which is the lifeline of the Rose villagers.

The hanging bridge, which was constructed by RWD, had collapsed due to heavy flood in 2008 followed by the diversion of water from Ranganadi to Pare River and construction of PHEP  at Jampa and Sopo village in Doimukh area by NEEPCO, the SAYA said.

The association claimed that though the bridge was reconstructed within a stipulated time by a construction agency with the NEEPCO-sanctioned amount of Rs 70 lakh during 2010, it collapsed immediately due to technical failure on the part of NEEPCO. It demanded  additional fund of Rs 70 lakh for reconstruction of bridge with re-preparation of technical drawing.   The Association further said agreement should be reached with the villagers for compensation in case of collapse of the bridge before it expiry time.

 

NEEPCO contract workers call bandh

ITANGAR, Jan 30: Irked with non-responsive attitude of the state Govt and NEEPCO authority towards its demands, Arunachal Pradesh Tribal Job Contract Employee Union (APTJCEU) NEEPCO decided to go with first phase of  48 hours bandh at Pare H E Project and Kameng H E Project sites from February 6. It further threatened to intensify its movement in case of failure of the authorities to fulfill the demand for regularization of job contract employees working under NEEPCO for last seven months.  

 

Rural bank reaches Mariyang

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: Mariyang, one of the oldest administrative Headquarter in  Arunachal Pradesh got a Rural Bank which was formally inaugurated by Parliamentary Secretary, Law & Justice, JKPanggeng,  January 28.

Till now 100 Saving Banks Account have been opened with the bank which has core banking facility.

In his address, Panggeng said that the long felt need of the people of the Mariyang Sub-Division has been fulfilled. He said from now onwards, the rural poor people would not need to go to Yingkiong, which is more than 50 km for small financial matter.

The Upper Siang DC Liyon Borang expressing his confidence said the rural bank is suited to the places like Mariyang which is remote. He said that it would naturally enhance the infra-structure and boost the rural economy. DIPRO

 

Erratic BSNL service hits Pasighat

PASIGHAT, Jan 30: The people of Pasighat town expressed  resentment over the failure of BSNL authorities  to restore both Broadband  and mobile phone services.

While the broadband service remains cut off for the last five days, the BSNL’s erratic mobile service in the town, especially during night hours added woes to the aggrieved  people.

The half-hearted attempt to restore the service proved  futile as the service users are still deprived of improved  and smooth service.

The service users, particularly the internet users have sought the intervention of BSNL higher authorities for immediate restoration of both broadband  and mobile service.

Moreover,  broadband, landline and FAX services were disrupted in market area for months together due to maintenance of road network in  the township and the laying of underground Optical Fibre Cable (OFC). DIPRO

 

Training on computer hardware

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: A week-long training course on “computer hardware repairing and maintenance” began at Administrative Training Institute, Naharlagun today. The programme is being organized by ATI in collaboration with the A to Z Computer Education Centre, Naharlagun and sponsored by department of personnel and training, Govt of India. Altogether 22 Govt employees including LDC, UDC and assistants from the Capital Complex are attending the programme.

ATI is conducting such kind of training course on computer repairing for the first time for Govt departments/offices in order to equip the employees  with knowledge and skill on minor computer repairing  and maintenance work, said ATI training director Pema Tshetan in his inaugural address.

 Tshetan said, at present the Govt officials are depending on private firms  for  a minor computer hardware problem  due to lack of their knowledge and skill on computer hardware maintenance. As a result, the office works get hampered. On the other hand the private firms are taking full advantage of ignorance of the office staff about computer hardware, repairing and maintenance and are charging exorbitant rate on minor hardware repairing. The director hoped that such practical based computer training  will help the Govt officials to solve day to day minor  computer problems for smooth  office functioning.

Earlier, ATI deputy director, training T Lodo, who is also course coordinator highlighted the course content. A to Z computer education director Palbinder Singh  explained about the  objective of the  training programme.  ATI assistant director, training Priscilla Tayeng also spoke on the occasion.

 

AR distributes bicycles

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: 19 Assam Rifles under the aegis of Headquarters 25 Sector Assam Rifles under took the project of distribution of bicycles to the student of Deomali Sub Division. The project is initiated with an aim to encourage young people, especially the most disadvantaged and disabled, to go to school and to promote their sense of initiative, their level of understanding and creativity.  

Bicycles were distributed by Col Prashant Kumar, Commandant 19 Assam Rifles in a ceremony held at Community Hall, Deomali on 30 Jan.

The unit has been regularly undertaking a number of projects under Assam Rifle Military Civic Action with an aim to benefit the large cross section of the society. Deomali Sub Division is an underdeveloped division with majority of its population living below poverty line. Interaction by Commandant 19 Assam Rifles with the villagers of Deomali Sub Division revealed imminent requirement of taking up certain development projects in the circle.

 

Forum opposes tour programme by JAYPEE

ITANAGAR, Jan 30:  Nyiko Bachao Forum (NBF) in a letter to Deputy Commissioner, West Siang District today voiced against the proposed free tour program being arranged by JAYPEE Arunachal Power Ltd for Project affected families of the proposed 2700MW Lower Siang Hydro-electric Project (LSHEP) .

Terming the tour programme as appeasing policy of the company to mislead the innocent affected people, LSHEP said that company is trying to lure and convince the project affected people and such initiation has hurt the sentiments of Nyiko people.  

The forum further opposed and expressed their resentment against the JAYPEE Arunachal Pradesh for arranging such free tour programme from first week of February.

 NBF appealed to the Deputy Commissioner to initiate necessary step and direct the JAIPEE to cancel the proposed tour programme immediately and also to put a blanket-ban on extension of any kind of aids and gratification to Nyiko peoples.

The Forum also said that they will firmly stick to their earlier nine point resolution adopted during public referendum rally held at Logun Jini last year against the construction of said hydro power project.

 

Outreach Health Camp

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: An Outreach Health Camp was organized by District Health Society Tirap today as per the instruction received from Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The idea was basically to provide the health care services to manual scavengers throughout India uniformly on  January 30 but as there are no Manual scavengers in the district, the camp was conducted in the remote village of Noglo and Lonyan near Myanmar Border.

The camp was attended by Dr.K Perme DRCHO Khonsa, Dr.K.Socia, Dr.K.Matey Dr.MT Lazi MO i/c Lazu PHC along with other paramedical staffs of District Hospital Khonsa.

Routine medical checkup, immunization to children including newly introduced Hepatitis- B vaccine, ANC, eye screening, blood slide collection, iron folic acid and vitamin – A supplementation was the highlights of the programme.

256 patients were benefited from the camp.

IEC/BCC activities on adoption of family planning methods were also carried out simultaneously.

Azet Holok ZPM Lazu block, Yumsen Lowang , Kakho Mitpo local teachers along with villagers leaving aside their routine field work thronged the camp and was instrumental in making the camp successful.

 

Arunachal Pavilion at the Subash Mela

ITANAGAR, Jan 30 As per the initiative of Parliamentary Secretary Food & Civil Supplies, Nido Pavitro,  to put up a Arunachal Pavilion at the Subash Mela being celebrated in the memory of 117th birth anniversary of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose at Kankurgachi, Kolkata,  Arunachal Bhawan, Kolkata participated in the event and put up a Arunachal Pavilion.

The Mela was formally inaugurated by  West Bengal Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee January 23.

The stalls and pavilions were inaugurated by Minister Health Sudip Bandopadyay.

The inaugural function was also attended by Mamata Riba, Additional Resident Commissioner, Arunachal Bhawan, Bijoy Talukdar, Deputy Resident Commissioner, Arunachal Bhawan, Tashi Dondhup, officer on Special Duty, Arunachal Bhawan, T. K. Kopak, District Tourism Officer, Arunachal Bhawan.

 

Workshop on CBPR

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: The Papum Pare District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) has conducted a two days orientation training cum workshop on “capacity building for poverty reduction (CBPR) at Sagalee on January 27 and 28.  Altogether 40 participants including Panchayat leaders and Govt officials took part in the workshop which was supported by the Administrative Training Institute (ATI) and sponsored by DFID-United Kingdom (UK) and Govt of India.

In his inaugural address Sagalee CO Likha Sumpu said such kind of training cum workshop will help the participants  gain knowledge for individual development  as well as  eliminate poverty from the society. He called upon them to learn something from the workshop with devotion and sincerity.

 Course coordinator Tapa Mosu highlighted the aims and objectives of the workshop.

 

Action demanded

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: Expressing concern at the death of Pasighat Donyi-Polo Vidya Niketan (DPVN)  principal under mysterious circumstances, Arunachal Shiksha Vakas Samiti urged upon the law enforcing authority to take stern action against the person(s) involved  in it as per law.

 The Samiti mourned the death of the principal and conveyed condolence to the bereaved family.

 

Art of Living

ITANAGAR,  Jan 30: The Art of Living is organising a stress management and life-skill workshop in Itanagar from January 31. The six-day course will be held at the Art of Living Centre in H Sector. The centrepiece of the workshop will be the Sudarshan Kriya, an innovative breathing technique designed by His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.  

 

NSS special camp

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: The NSS unit of Rajiv Gandhi Govt Polytechnic has conducted an annual special camp at Poma village  from January 27 to 29.

The NSS volunteers prepared a playground at Govt Middle School campus, Poma and also conducted awareness programme on HIV/AIDS and blood donation for the school children. The headmaster of the school Taba Pinka and his staff extended all possible help to the volunteers.

 

Essay writing competition held

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: Ayanam Society, Aalo conducted essay writing competition on importance of forest conservation and sustainable forest management at government middle school, Ngomdir and government middle school Nikte recently.

Meanwhile, Ayanam society in collaboration with third eye computer education, Aalo has decided to provide three months basis computer education to Class X topper of 2012-13 of Aalo Circle free of cost at Third eye computer education, Aalo.

 

4 AR reaches out to villagers

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: The 4 Assam Rifle distributed 400 mosquito nets to the locals of Manmao in Changlang.

This is just one of many programmes that 4 Assam Rifles is planning to undertake within its AOR in Changlang district, as part of “Winning Hearts and Minds Operations” in the overall gambit of CI ops.

 

Rural mart

ITANAGAR, Jan 30: Rural Mart was established at Khonsa, Tirap District under Techno Farmers’ Club, Chanu which is sponsored by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).

The Tirap Deputy Commissioner W Lowang inaugurated the Rural Mart and M/S Tirap Agri- Clinic on January  27.

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