January 14

News Impact

Cash reward stands

ITANAGAR, Jan 12: The cash reward of Rs 2 lakh announced by the Arunachal Pradesh Police for giving information or clue leading to arrest of the assailant/s of Tongam Rina, Associate Editor of The Arunachal Times still stands. The identity of the informer/s will be kept secret.  The informer/s may contact Capital SP at tele. numbers : 09436040006

 

ACS expresses concern over recovery of grenade  

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: Expressing serious concern over recovery of an extortion note along with an explosive (grenade) from a house in the heart of Capital City yesterday, the Arunachal Civil Society (ACS) has claimed that the incident has once again proved the weakness and failure of the State Government, particularly Home Department to tackle the deteriorating law and order situation.

Describing the incident as an open challenge to the Capital Police and Home Department, ACS astonished as to how one could put extortion note and grenade into another’s house in broad daylight.

Now, people begin to lose faith on the State Govt. and entire home department as there has been no example of awarding exemplary punishment to criminals or offenders till date,” ACS chairman Patey Tayum said.

ACS appealed to the State Government to find mechanism to tackle the situation for the safety and security its people before it slips away from their hand.

 

Governor extends Pongal greetings

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: Arunachal Pradesh Governor General (Retd.) J.J. Singh has extended warm greetings to people of Arunachal Pradesh on the festive occasion of Pongal, the thanksgiving or harvest festival of South Indians.

The Governor wished that the festivity would promote goodwill amongst people in the society.

 

Peace conservation rally

ITANAGAR, Jan 13:  Pakke-Nameri Peace Conservation rally will be organized on Feb 22 next. This was decided  in a joint meeting of the community leaders of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Govt officials at Forest Rest House, West Bank, Seijosa recently, informed Ghora Aabhe Society, New Mabusa-I, Seijosa, East Kameng district in a release today.

 

Workshop on “Child sexual abuse” held

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: In a bid to create awareness among the people, especially parents, the Kidzee Smart Kids School, here today organized a one-day workshop on "Child Sexual Abuse" at Don Bosco Youth Centre, Vivek Vihar, Itanagar. The programme was attended by eminent personalities like doctors, singers besides parents.

Speaking on the occasion, Niba Hospital, Naharlagun Pediatrician, Dr Jayom Karlo highlighted on the topic and its after effects on child. He also gave a brief idea of present scenario of Arunachal Pradesh.  

The renowned singer of state Taba Yaal Nabum also spoke on the topic and shared her viewpoints. Many parents also turned up during the interaction session and shared their views, experiences and suggestions on key issue.

Dr Nyada Mara, Dr Tumpi Tato, Atum Potom, Lummo Potom and Team Members of CHILD LINE Don Bosco Youth Centre participated during the interaction session, among others. The speakers strongly advocated for more such awareness campaign in a larger scale.

Earlier, Jumngam Karlo, the centre coordinator welcomed the participants followed by a PowerPoint presentation on the topic by Dr Rime Ngulom. The day-long programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Kidzee Facilitator Rupal Roy.

 

APLS holds first sitting of the new year

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: The Arunachal Pradesh Literary Society (APLS)’s monthly literary sitting – 45th in its series and the first in this New Year – was held at the conference hall of JN State Museum here today.

True to APLS’ cherished dream to strengthen literary scenario in the State, the day’s proceedings started with the neo-litterateurs sharing their creative writings with the literary luminaries like Y D Thongchi, an exponent of creative writings and the president of APLS.

Rindo Pertin, a class V student read out his story ‘At the End a Fool is also Wise’, while Aryaman Das Borah (class IV student) read out his story ‘The Horse and the Zebra’. Another budding writer, Lisa Ghosh (a class IX student) shared her composition titled ‘A kitty cat story’ with the gathering.

Ramendra Nath Koley recited a Bengali poem ‘Kando Bharatbashi Kando’, penned by the poet himself pertaining to the Delhi gang-rape incident, and another poem titled ‘BPL’, reflecting the state of sufferings the downtrodden people go through in the society.

Chaired by APLS president Thongchi, today’s session was attended by APLS general secretary Tokong Pertin, Dr S K Ghosh, Inumoni Das Borah and Tanmay Jana, Deputy Accountant General, Arunachal Pradesh.

 

West Kameng police launches ‘Prayas’

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: West Kameng District Police has started “PRAYAS”, a community policing initiative with two-fold vision of reaching to the people and making them a part in maintenance of law and order, prevention of crime and strengthening of communal harmony.

In first of its events, OC in-charge of Bomdila Police Station A B Tamang and his team in association with District Health Society, Headmaster L T Napudu and Gram Chairperson Khoina Geshi Tamu Yamchodu had organised free health check up camp at Saidle, a remote village in Bomdila today. A total of 139 people from Rurang, Jerigaon, Khoina, Saidle and Dingchang have undergone the health check up and medicines were distributed free of costs to the needy. X-Rays check up were also done free of cost.

The health camp was conducted by a team of doctors, led by DMO S Kakoti, Dr. T D Namsa, Dr. D K Lama Dr. A Tapir.

The Gaon Burahs of the mentioned villages have also extended cooperation to the medical team in making “Prayas” successful.

 

Upper Siang held by Lower Dibang Valley Papum Pare share points with L. Subansiri

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: Upper Siang played out a goalless draw against Lower Dibang Valley in a league level match in the 12th Tadar Tang Memorial State Level Football Tournament at General Ground here today.

In another match of the day, coming from behind, Lower Subansiri were finally able to force 2-2 draw against Papum Pare.

Papum Pare were leading 2-0 in the first half through goals from Topon Borah (12 min) and Vijay Kino (25 min).

But, Nada Tamo of Lower Subansiri reduced the margin to 1-2 in the 41 minute before Mihin Pullo restored parity a minute before the final hooter (79 min).

Capital Complex will lock horns with archrival Kurung Kumey in tomorrow’s first match while Upper Subansiri will meet East Kameng in the second match.

 

 

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182 days have passed. The culprits involved in the July 15 attack on The Arunachal Times associate editor Tongam Rina are still at large. 

AAPSU team visits M’Pen, demands eviction

 

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: A team of All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) led by Likha Takar, vice president (Admn) as fact-finding chairman visited M’Pen and other villages of Changlang district where the violence took place between Chakmas refugees and local Singphos.

Team has collected actual causes of conflict and condemned the formation of Peace Committee rather than action committee to investigate against criminal refugees who were responsible for the violence.

The incident occurred in Kagam, Lewang, Miao, Phup and M’Pen.

“Though Chakmas are refugee, they are enjoying equal status of indigenous people, which is not fair,” AAPSU said in a release. The apex students’ body of the state criticized the state government for failing to understand the suffering of indigenous people, who have lost their properties during the surprise attack by thousands of Chakmas on December 23. It also flayed the district administration’s failure to provide sense of security to the indigenous people.

AAPSU said that the district is facing acute shortages of police personnel, vehicles and modern weapons to face any kind of threats from any type of anti-social elements in the district. AAPSU demanded immediate posting of adequate security personnel and other govt. machinery in order to bring back the feelings of  security among the people and maintain peace and tranquility within the affected areas. Further, AAPSU strongly demanded govt. to evict land encroachment done by the refugees at M’Pen village.

“LPC has already been issued against the occupied plot by the government to the locals,” AAPSU said and demanded eviction of the encroachers within 15 days failing which AAPSU would be compelled to launch democratic movement.

AAPSU also claimed that the refugees possess numerous local made weapons and use those weapons against the local indigenous people for offensive purposes. The union demanded the state government to conduct special census of the refugee and maintain their population at any cost and the recorded refugees should be sent back to the temporary allotted place for shelter.

AAPSU claimed that the rapid growth of Chakmas is happening due to irresponsive attitude of the government in preventing illegal migration from Bangladesh and other places. They (refugees) are not only disturbing public peace but also economic and educational growth of genuine citizens of the state, it said.

 AAPSU appealed to the state government for providing compensation to the indigenous victims of the clash within 15 days and in case of any failure to provide the same would compel AAPSU to go for democratic means for fulfillment of the demand. It further appealed to the people of the state to fight against the threats posed by the refugees in Arunachal Pradesh.

 

 

Arunachal Cabinet approves four new districts, bypass road

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: The first Cabinet meeting of the year 2013 of Arunachal Pradesh held at CM’s conference hall here yesterday approved the creation of new districts in the name of Namsai with it’s headquarter at Namsai and Lower Siang district. The district creation bill is slated to be tabled in the ensuing budget session of Legislative Assembly, according to a Govt statement.  

Apart from it, the cabinet also approved in principle for creation of Middle Siang District and Capital District for which cabinet memorandum for these two districts will be placed in the next cabinet.

In an another important decision, the cabinet studying the nerves of the capital city dwellers have approved for 22 to 24 metre road in the capital for Right of Way (ROW) wherever feasible without disturbing structures constructed by private people on both sides of the road.

The cabinet also approved for a By-Pass road from Chimpu to Leki without disturbing the twin city of Itanagar and Naharlagun. This step of the government is sure to ease the growing traffic congestion of the capital city in the days to come.

While two new Circle Headquarters each at Kantang in Changlang District and Nikte in West Siang have been approved, the existing SDO headquarter of Dambuk has been upgraded to ADC headquarters. These were some pending demands from the people of these areas and it is the people centric government’s   step forward to bring the administration to the doorsteps of the commoners.

The meeting was presided over by Nabam Tuki and attended by 10 ministers out of 12.

 

 

TC cries foul over implementation of KGBV scheme

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: Although the Govt of India had sanctioned 48 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) between 2004-05 and 2010-011 in Arunachal Pradesh, educationally backward Upper Subansiri district was not covered under the KGBV scheme, said Trinamool Congress Arunachal Pradesh unit in a release. The scheme was launched by the GOI in August 2004 for setting up residential schools at upper primary level for girls belonging predominantly to SC,ST,OBC and minorities in different areas, it said.

The party claimed that CAG report year ended March 2011 had exposed unauthorized transfer of funds under the KGBV scheme.

Quoting the CAG report, the Trinamool Congress Arunachal Pradesh unit further said that  during the five years (2006-07 to 2010- 011), out of  available fund of Rs 43.50 crore, an expenditure of Rs 39.37 crore (around 90 per cent) was incurred during these years and construction of 12 KGBV buildings were under progress. Of these, nine KGBV buildings were sanctioned in 2008-09 and construction of the building commenced in the same year, the party said. “However, even after two years the buildings are not complete and KGBV yet to start functioning. As a result of delay in completion of these buildings approximately 100 girls per school  had been deprived of the benefits of the scheme,” the party said.

The TC said SSA Rajya Mission  stated in October 2011 that the fund  for construction of KGBV buildings were  given by the GOI on the basis of rate prior to April 2009 to which the buildings are not completed as per requirement and norms. “The reply is not acceptable as the matter should have been brought to the notice of concerned authority and additional funds sought so that construction could be completed without further delay to avoid unnecessary cost escalation. The transfer of funds from one component to another without approval of the PAB amounts to unauthorized diversion of funds, results in delay in implementation of approved programme, the party claimed.

“Records of SSA, Rajya  Mission, Itanagar, revealed that during 2009-10, an amount of Rs 560,97 lakh pertaining to KGBV education for girls was transferred to the accounts of the Rajya Mission as loan. At the end of the year (2009- 10), Rs 41.21 lakh was refunded to the KGBV accounts and balance Rs 519.76 lakh still remained as loan with Rajya Mission as of March 2011. Consequently, the programme could not be completed within the specified time, depriving poor girl children of the state of the benefits of the scheme,”  the party said..

The TC further said that “SSA Rajya Mission stated in October 20011  that SSA and  KGBV come under same umbrella and transfer of funds from one programme to another was resorted to  keeping in view urgent need of funds to complete a work within specific timeframe.”

The Trinamool Congress said that during 2007-08, without verifying the antecedent of a non- Government Organization (NGO), Rs 13.41 lakh was paid to the NGO for running the KGBV at Mechuka, However, the NGO failed to run the KGBV, Mechuka. The amount paid was also not refunded by the NGO. “The DDSE did not take any action, either to recover  the money or  to compel the NGO to execute the work. However, the DDSE accounted the payment as expenditure in its Annual Account for 2007-08, the party said.

Confirming the fact, SSA Rajya Mission stated in October 2011 that KGBV branch of the state unit was asked to initiate criminal proceeding against the action but till date ( October 2011), the NGO was absconding and could not be traced, the party added.

 

 

NES and media hold talks on various issues

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: Setting an example for others to emulate, the media fraternity of Arunachal Pradesh at the invitation of the Nyishi Elite Society (NES) held a threadbare discussion with NES members on various issues today, particularly the mistakes committed by a section of local media which have at times resulted in sending a wrong message to the society.   

The invitation was to resolve the issue of incorrect publication of information on Hills Miri and festival ‘Boori Boot’ and ‘Boori-Yullow’ by the Eastern Sentinel in its January 6, 2013 issue, which was amicably resolved with the unanimous decision that the press should be on guard to not repeat mistakes that might snowball into a major issue.

In a joint resolution at Donyi-Polo Ashok here, it was decided that the Eastern Sentinel would tender unconditional apology in its next publication to the Nyishi community, as was done by the legislative assembly secretariat and the tourism department in the past on the same issue. Highlighting the ethnicity related issues of the state, NES president Bengia Tolum said that Nyishi being the largest community in the society brought all those belonging to different alien nomenclatures under one umbrella for communal harmony and integrity of the state. “The Nyishis of Upper Subansiri earlier named under alien nomenclature had come to the original fold of Nyishi in the historic Ligu Affirmation of December 19, 1998. Consequent upon the constitutional amendment changing the nomenclature from Dafla to Nyishi, MLA Nido Pavitra on behalf of those inhabiting Raga and Dollungmukh areas had announced during the historic 1st Nyishi Day celebration on April 19, 2008 at Indira Gandhi Park that they have united with the original fold. So far as the festival is concerned, Boori Boot Yullo will be celebrated on February 6 annually, as was unanimously decided by the community,” Tolum informed.

With the notification of the NES in the aftermath of the nomenclature change in 2008, ‘Boori-Boot’ and ‘Boori Yullo’ had been done away with, he affirmed.

“Media being the mirror of the society should act impartially while being guarded on wrong, baseless, sensitive and provocative news that could have far-reaching impact in a tribal society passing through a transition,” the president advocated.

“Why does the media tarnish the image of an individual or organization without cross-checking before publication in violation of the guidelines of the Press Council of India (PCI)?” he wondered.

Responding to various issues raised, adviser of Arunachal Press Club (APC) and Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ), Pradeep Kumar admitted to some mistakes of the state’s media which itself is still evolving.

Pointing out that most of the press releases are published by the local media, in violation of PCI guidelines, without cross-checking and seeking clarification from those who are accused, Kumar endorsed the NES president’s view that the media should conscientiously follow the PCI guidelines to prevent misgivings and ill-feelings.

Responding to Tolum’s strong view on publication of bandh news without any consideration of the huge losses caused to the society and the wrong message that goes out to the rest of the nation, the media persons were unanimous in assuring to exercise caution in this regard henceforth.

Tolum also was honest in suggesting to the media to not set any wrong trend by becoming judges and carrying inciting news which equally invite problems that victimize the media persons themselves and the society as a whole.

Today’s amicable discussion set a new trend for any individual or organization to avoid confrontation with the media and facilitate it to serve its purpose.

The NES team included general secretary Vijay Sonam, AGS Tarh Tabin, I&P secretary Heri Maring, women & family affairs secretary Higio Aruni, education & literary secretary Dr NT Rikam, sports & youth affairs secretary Tadar Appa, K/Kumey secretary Yumlam Kaha, P/Pare secretary Kholie Tath, assistant education secretary Tame Yaku, and ANSU information & publicity secretary Bengia Tada, while APC & APUWJ adviser Taro Chatung, APUWJ general secretary Dodum Yangfo, APC vice president Azing Pertin, assistant publicity secretary Amar Sangno,  Eastern Sentinel editor Joken Ete and consulting editor Kenter Joya Riba among other journalists represented the media.

 

 

Appropriate knowledge is only way to prevent HIV/AIDS: SMO

TEZU, Jan 13: Appropriate knowledge on HIV/AIDS is the only way to prevent the disease from further spreading, said Dr. J. S. Bhowmick, Senior Medical Officer of District Hospital Tezu, during a Special Publicity Campaign (SPC) on Health and Family Welfare organized by Directorate of Field Publicity (DFP), Tezu unit at New Danglat village of Lohit district today.

Dr. Bhowmick said that HIV/AIDS spread through unprotected sex, receiving HIV infected blood, using unsterilized needles or needles previously used and from HIV positive mother to her baby. Hence, every pregnant woman should take HIV test, he added. The medical officer disclosed that total 26 Integrated Counseling and Testing Centers (ICTC) are working in Arunachal Pradesh including two at Lohit district, where anybody may get free confidential testing and counseling for HIV.

The resource person of the programme also elaborated the gathering about immunization and other commonly transmitted diseases like Dengue, Malaria etc. and suggested many simple tips to prevent from these diseases.

He also said that every pregnant woman should get benefit from Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK) or Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY). Earlier, a rally was taken out in the village by more than 150 villagers, including anganwadi workers, ASHAs, youths and panchayat members.  DFP Tezu unit in-charge, Mihir Kr Jha also joined the rally and educated the villagers about maintaining personal and hygiene and to prevent various diseases like Dengue, Malaria, HIV/AIDS etc.

T-shirts and few rucksacks were distributed to the participants by DFP, Tezu unit.

 

 

ACRYA celebrates its 22nd Foundation Day

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: The Arunachal Christian Revival Youth Association (ACRYA), the youth wing of APCRCC celebrated its 22nd Foundation Day at CRC Itanagar from January 11 to 13. The three-day long celebrations started with unfurling of the ACRYA flag by Evan. Dr. Joram Dol followed by prayer for peace of the state, praise and worship, biblical discourses, choreographies etc.  Choreographies, songs of praise and skit from Sunday School Children of CRC Naharlagun, Doimukh and Chimpu were the eyecatchers.

The main speaker of the occasion, Rev. Dr. Avi Sophie from New Delhi exhorted the youths to be torchbearer of the society and develop positive attitudes.

Rev. Nampung Gyadi dwelt in length the theme of the foundation day from Phillippian 3:14.

AAPSU president Kamta Lapung asked the youths to be a true Christian and advocated for religious tolerance in the society and urged the youths to be patient in their approach.  

President APCRCC Sama Dodum, Vice-President APCRCC Dr. David Pertin, outgoing President of ACRYA Evan. Dr. Joram Dol, service leader Evan. Matthew Golom also spoke.

The foundation day was witnessed among others by APCRCC leaders Pastor Hillang Taya, Tai Tatup, Evan. Tami Tachang, Tarh Kama, Gandhi Dui, many government officers, public leaders, youth leaders from various districts and hundreds of delegates.

 

 

GPF condemns Aalo fiasco, appeals for peace

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: Galo Peoples’ Federation (GPF) condemned the Aalo fiasco and held the District Administration for the total failure in evading the avoidable fracas, which led to the loss of a precious life and properties on 10th January. Holding the celebration of “Galo Day” as the root cause for the entire problem, the GPF regretted that though it had appealed for “No Galo Day” it had felled on deaf ears and the consequent is a havoc.

GPF opined that GWS as well as the organizer of the “Galo Day” are very much responsible for the sad episode along with the student community. Further, expressing deep shock and dismay over the behaviour and depiction of its student community, both GSU and AGSU, the GPF also held them both guilty for causing the nuisance. Nonetheless, the GPF expressed deep thankfulness to its legislator, Takar Marde, who saved the day for the Galos. With his experienced as real public leader, Marde, along with Parliamentary Secretary, Home, Gadam Ete and other seniors of Dumporijo area tackled the situation and brought back normalcy from an inept situation. Both of them need heavy applause from all Galo members,  the GPF said.  It was disheartening that other five legislators were not available when the Society was in dire need of them, GPF stated. Taking account of all records, the GPF demanded immediate arrest of the culprits, co-accused and abettors and give exemplary punishment to all of them which has brought disgrace to the Galo Society. Besides, GPF demanded the Deputy Commissioner, West Siang district, to ban both GSU and AGSU immediately for disturbing the peace and tranquility of the entire Galo Society.

Heaving high hope on the constituted Peace Committee, the GPF expressed hope and wish that the Committee brings peaceful destination for the unfortunate event and expressed every possible help from its side in their endeavour. It appeals for peace and understanding among all Galo brethrens. Lastly, the members profusely condoled the sad demise of Goto Yudik and prayed almighty Donyi-Polo to bestow peace and strength to the bereaved family at this moment of grief. A two-minute silence was observed as a mark of respect for the departed soul.

Orgs mourn death of student leader

Meanwhile, Kargu Gamgi Management Committee, Itanagar (KGMCI) has deeply mourned the death of Galo student leader Goto Yudik on the opening day of the Galo Day celebration on August 10 last.

Meanwhile,  chief patron of Kargu Gamgi, Tony Koyu has appealed to all section of the people to maintain peace and harmony.   He said that such violent incident exposes only the weakness and poor image of  the society like “Galo Baane’.  “We must try to follow the  dictum of our forefathers  and try to respect our elders and leaders of our society,” he added. Yido Boje, KGMC president also appealed all to maintain peace.

Karda Natam from DAPORIJO adds: Tagin Culture Society (TCS) has strongly condemned the gruesome murder of Goto Yudik and said such unpleasant incidents are detrimental to social harmony.

The members of TCS today visited the bereaved family members to offer comfort and prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.

TCS has further expressed gratitude to District administration, especially Deputy Commssioner Tahang Taggu and Superintendent of Police SC Yadav for their prompt action to control the tense situation at Dumporijo and Daporijo after death of Yudik.

Meanwhile, TCS appealed all to condemn and discourage such incident and work for promotion of social harmony among all the communities.

 

 

150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda celebrated

KHONSA, Jan 13: The 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda was celebrated with various programmes in Tirap district yesterday.

At Khonsa, a huge rally was taken out carrying banners and placards depicting the message of Swami Vivekanda. A huge public meeting was held at Nehru stadium, Khonsa in which students, teachers, HoDs and public attended.

Speaking on the occasion, ADC H. Matcha quoting Swamiji said, “ Each soul is potentially Divine. The goal is to manifest this Divinity within, by controlling nature, external and internal. Do this either by work,or worhip, or Psychic control, or philosophy- by one or more or all of these and be free. This is the whole of religion. Doctrines, or dogmas, or rituals, or books, or temples, or forms, are but secondary details.”

In her speech, Pr. Vedatmaprana Mataji, Principal of RK Sarada Mission School, Khonsa highlighted the tremendous contributions of Swami Vivekananda in awakening the youth and a sense of nationalism. She said that Swamiji charmed the whole world with his knowledge and threw light on Swamiji’s triumph in Chicago.

Participating in the deliberation, Denhang Bosai said that when Swamiji went to Chicago to participate in the world parliament of religions he met many American intellectuals. He impressed every one by his vast oriental and occidental knowledge. Dr John Henry Wright, Professor of Greek classics in Harvard University in his introductory letter to the Chairman of the world parliament of religions wrote about Swami Vivekananda, “Here is a man who is more learned than all our learned Professors put together.” Quoting Swamiji, Denhang further said, “Life is ever expanding, contraction is death. The self-seeking man who is looking after his personal comforts and leading a lazy life - there is no room for him even in hell.”  Bosai exhorted the youth to follow Swamiji’s ideals, love the country and be responsible citizens.

The day was also celebrated at Deomali and Longding in a befitting manner.  DIPRO

Our Correspondent adds: At Daporijo, more than thousand children from various schools of Daporijo complex, including parents, social workers and well wishers took out a Sobha yatra in the Daporijo township on the first day of the celebration of  150 birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.

Vehicle decorated with photos and quotation of Swami Vivekan led the procession followed by VKV schools’ band troupe and 100 small school kids clad in Swamiji’s dress.

Different slogans of Swamiji were chanted during the procession throughout the market complex by school children and other participants. The procession culminated at Rijo Ground.

AK Krishn and Principal VKV School Daporijo chanted the devotional prayer dedicated to Swamiji and was led by students and public in chorus.

A J Don, the chief guest of the programme highlighted the life history of Vivekananda and emphasized his ideology. He also urged the students to follow the ideology of Swamiji.

“As Swamiji believed that “service to man is service to God, so we should work for the mankind,” he said.

Jumli Ligu also highlighted about the great contribution of Swamiji for the nation and he also narrated many short stories pertaining to moral values.

 

 

Workshop cum training on handling of FTK

ITANAGAR, Jan 13: Lower Dibang Valley District Water and Sanitation Committee, Roing under PHE & WS Department conducted Workshop Cum-Training on handling of Field Test Kit (FTK) on Sustainable Drinking Water and Sanitation on January 11.

The workshop was attended by all PRI leaders, teachers, ASHAs, Aganwadi workers and public of Iduli-Koronu Block.

At the onset Mure Linggi AE PHED Roing welcomed all PRI and other members attending the workshop.

In his key note address, Mure Linggi AE PHED Roing, explained the aims and objectives of NRDWP and Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan, formerly known as ARWSP and Total Sanitation Campaign respectively, through a PowerPoint presentation. He emphasized on early completion and achievement of NBA with Solid Liquid and Waste disposal and its management for which active participation of PRI is must. He urged the PRI members to give emphasis on quality, quantity and sustainability system of water supply and sanitation. He also described the handing over of village water supply system to VWSC so that PRIs would be the custodian of water supply to their villages as per latest norm of Govt. of India.

Anon Wangsu, Consultant PHED explained the programme proposed under NBA and various reasons of the need to convert TSC into NBA. She urged the women to lead the programme as they are the leader of the unit society. She also informed about new rate of low cost sanitation and sources of fund from other head. She stated that the beneficiary must stick to positive mindset instead of materialistic benefit.

Former MLA and HGB of Injonu Sakole Linggi, said that all the water pipelines of his village have deteriorated and major part of it has been damaged during the last wave of flood. He stressed on early restoration/repairing of damaged pipelines.

Pena Meto, GPC Denlo stated that before involving the PRIs for management of village water supply, all the infra structure must be updated.

Aipi Mega, ZPM Korunu, thanked the PHED department for organizing the workshop for the PRI members. “Since most of the Panchayat members are illiterate it would be inappropriate to take over the responsibilities of water supply from the department and they are not ready for it as of now”, she opined. She also mentioned that before handing over the responsibilities to them there is need to bring more awareness at villages level by the concern department. She appealed VWSC to initiate and be prepared for shouldering the responsibility by adopting water supply system to VWSC.

Itang Linggi, Anchal Chaiperson, Iduli pointed out that present VWSC are not fully aware with their duties and responsibilities. Therefore, it would not be wise to discharge the responsibilities of water supply system to them. He requested all the members to submit memorandum to department regarding pros and cons of handing over to PRIs so that they could convey the higher concern authorities.

Dr. Dana Unna, Circle Officer, Korunu appreciating the initiatives taken by the PHED, appealed the members to take optimum benefit out of the NBA fund and to take immediate action for early completion of construction of individual household latrines in the block.

Field Test Kits were distributed to the GPC/ASMs for their respective GPs.

DWSC of Lower Dibang Valley has been undertaking Workshop Cum-Training on handling of Field Test Kit (FTK) for Sustainable Drinking Water and Sanitation under the chairmanship of Shiv Kumar, DC Cum-Chairman, Watsan Committee, Lower Dibang Valley and leadership of S Pertin, Executive Engineer cum Member Secretary, DWSC since November, 2012 at all Panchayat blocks, including Roing, Hunli-Desali, Meka, Dambuk-Paglam, Iduli and Koronu.

• AAPSU team visits M’Pen, demands eviction
• Arunachal Cabinet approves four new districts, bypass road
• TC cries foul over implementation of KGBV scheme
• NES and media hold talks on various issues
• Appropriate knowledge is only way to prevent HIV/AIDS: SMO
• ACRYA celebrates its 22nd Foundation Day
• GPF condemns Aalo fiasco, appeals for peace
• 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda celebrated
• Workshop cum training on handling of FTK
• Poi-Leng of Ven. Aggravansa Mahathera begins

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All rights reserved.

Mercury emissions rise in developing nations

Communities in developing countries are facing increasing health and environmental risks linked to exposure to mercury, according to new studies by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

According to the study, parts of Africa, Asia and South America could see increasing emissions of mercury into the environment, due mainly to the use of the toxic element in small-scale gold mining, and through the burning of coal for electricity generation.

The Global Mercury Assessment 2013 reports that emissions of the toxic metal from artisanal gold mining have doubled since 2005, in part due to new and better information, but also due to rising gold prices that are expected to lead to further increases.

Due to rapid industrialization, Asia is the largest regional emitter of mercury, and accounts for just under half of all global releases, says the report.

The UNEP study assesses for the first time at a global level releases of mercury into rivers and lakes. Much human exposure to mercury is through the consumption of contaminated fish, making aquatic environments the critical link to human health.

The study, which provides a comprehensive breakdown of mercury emissions by region and economic sector, also highlights significant releases into the environment linked to contaminated sites and deforestation.

The report says an estimated 260 tonnes of mercury - previously held in soils - are being released into rivers and lakes.

Mercury released from industry and other man-made sources can circulate in the environment for up to centuries at a time. This means that it is likely to be several years or decades before reductions in mercury emissions have a demonstrable effect on mercury levels in nature and the food chain.

The UNEP studies say this reinforces the need for swift action by governments, industry and civil society to strengthen efforts to reduce mercury emissions and releases. Delays in action, say the reports, will lead to slower recovery of ecosystems and a greater legacy of pollution.

SSA teachers deserve better treatment

Dear Editor,

As a vigilant citizen of the state, in my opinion the Government should acknowledge the grievances of the SSA recruits who have already served the state painstakingly and workout for an amicable solution. The SSA recruits are but an asset to the state and have already dedicated almost a decade in the service to the state in the educational sector. It would be an abuse as after serving for the decade, if the Government is reluctant to take any positive responsibility for their services.

In the SSA schemes of the Government irrespective of Central guidelines or state amendments, the underlying principles should rather be of equity, fair and justice. Apart from that it ought to be the duty and obligation of the Government to engineer and generate the intellectual resource of these recruits proportionately. Such an initiation on part of the Government will go a long way for good and efficient governance.

Yours’

Johney Kamsi

Geki Ete

 

 

Appreciation

Dear Editor,

I would like to thank the Govt. of A.P, CM and education minister through your esteemed paper. I on behalf of All Bogong Students’ Union (ABSU) and people of Pasighat would like to convey my heartfelt appreciation for the overwhelming steps taken by the Chief Minister Nabam Tuki regarding the laying of foundation stone of Arunachal Pradesh State University in Pasighat, which will positively change the academic proficiency of the students from different corners of the state. At the same time, we the students’ communities enthusiastically assume the full-fledged establishment of the University at the earliest.

I also thank the Government of Arunachal Pradesh for the commendable steps taken for betterment of educational status, at the same time I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the minister of Education Bosiram Siram for his tireless efforts in making the much anticipated cause a success.

Yours,

Anit Tamuk

President

All Bogong Students’ Union

 

 

 

Conduct interview at the earliest

Dear Editor,

Through your esteemed daily we want you to publish this letter and give moral support to fight back against political intervention and spending of money to secure the Government job by depriving the hardworking deserving poor candidates.

Referrring to advertisement No.MAIDS NO-1/5/2008(p)III, dated 9th March 2012,by Arunachal Pradesh State Aids Control Society (APSACS) for the post of Technical Officer, Assitant Director, GIPA, Consultant youth affair and Data Managar. We the group of written qualified candidates requested the Board Chairman/Project Director, APSACS, Govt.ofA.P, to conduct interview and select only the genuine candidates who fulfill all the criteria as par the guideline of N.A.C.O.  After the postponement of interview no any date was fixed for the interview. Though it’s almost about to be year but we are yet to get any intimation for the interview. It’s really strange and confusing why the concern department is delaying the interview.

These days the recommendation and political intervention not only deprives the deserving candidates, it’s the main factor why so many hardworking student get demoralize and discourage thereby burdening the poor parents. Do conduct the interview  at earliest  otherwise we all the candidates will protest against it and sit for darna.

List of written qualified candidates Roll No:(1)GIPA:GC-04,GC-06,GC-07. (2)AD:AD-07,AD-11,AD-015. (3)DM:DM-08,DM-105,DM-116. (4)TO:TO-41,TO-09,TO-410.

Yours’

Jumrik Ete

Kago Sambyo

Poi-Leng of Ven. Aggravansa Mahathera begins

MUDOI Jan 13: Poi-Leng / Rath Utsav of late Ven. Aggravansa Mahathera began this morning with the hoisting of the World Buddhist flag by Venerable Gunavandsa Mahathera, Sangha Nayak of Purbanchal Bikkhu Sangha.

The funeral ceremony began with paying tribute to late Ven. Aggravansa Mahathera. His mortal remain was brought from Sasana Rakkhita Buddha Vihar to the general ground here at Mudoi village by Rath Sthapana.

Thousands of Buddhist followers thronged the general ground to take part in the Poi-Leng / Rath Utsav celebration.

This occasion of Poi-Leng has brought Buddhist from different parts of India to share a same platform here in Mudoi said Ven. Dr Dhammapiya of Tripura while speaking at the Dhamma Sabha. Such platforms provide a place of unity, a place for harmony and an opportunity for cultural exchange, he said.

Ven. Dr Dhammapiya informed the people that the Mog Buddhist of Tripura on such occasion performs Katala (Rath dance) to venerate venerable Buddhist monks. Katala is a new culture to the Buddhist of Arunachal Pradesh, he added.

The first word of the Buddha was that Buddhism should be preached for the welfare and the benefit of the people, he said.

Our mind set has to be developed so as to bring about positive change into our lives, he further said and added that we should try and purify our bad thoughts and deeds. The teaching of the Buddha is to improve mental level and physical level of a being.

It is the duty of the Bikkhu Sangh, Bikkhuni Sangha, Upasak and Upasika to change our mindset, to recast our attention as to how to make teaching of the Buddha useful and applicable for the welfare and benefit for those who follow Buddhism, Ven. Dr Dhammapiya further added.

A short biography of  Ven. Aggravansa Mahathera

In the winter of 1951, Ven. Aggravansa Mahathera was born in a small village Khakrasuri Gongjopara in erstwhile East Pakistan now Bangladesh. Youngest of the three children, his parents Late Usai Mog and Acho Mog named him Angyo Mog, which literally in Mog language means a winner.  At the age of 6 years, his parents ordained him as “Sramnera” following the traditions and customs prevailing amongst the Mog. Being from a middle class family, his parents could not send him for his higher studies. However, young Angyo Mog had passed the VIII standard from Goimara Jr. School, under the active supervision of his elder brother Late Ang Thuaifru Mog. He received his early education from Gulabari Govt. School in Bengali. As a student he was a brilliant and very obedient pupil. As such his teachers loved him very much and fondly called him Ang.  

After he left his school he worked as a teacher in a private school in Boroithali for three years. At the age of 19 years he tied the nuptial knot with Late Paituma Mog at Kukisora and led a happy marital life thereafter. After his marriage with Late Paituma Mog, he left teaching profession and started cultivation for sustenance of his family. Days passed into months and months into years, he was engrossed in temporal affairs in pursuit of mundane happiness. They were blessed with two sons Are Mog and Achai Mog.

But unfortunately, after the birth of his younger son his wife died following a brief illness. Then he decided to renounce the world and become a monk in search of true peace of mind.

Angyo Mog was ordained as Upasampada, in the year 1976 in Boroithali Bana Bihar and was renamed “Aggravansa Bhikkhu”. Under the guidance of his teacher Ven. Chandasara Mahathero of Boroithali Bana Bihar Ven. Aggravansa Mahathero, studied Buddhist scriptures and meditation for three Monsoon retreats (Vassabas).

In the year 1978, Ven. Aggravansa Mahathero arrived in Bijoypuri, Sabroan District Tripura to preach Buddhism. Spending one monsoon retreat in Bijoypuri, Ven. Aggravansa Mahathero went to Upanagar in Ambasa District of Tripura. He spent three Monsoon retreats in Upanagar till 1981.

Ven. Aggravansa Mahathero travelled across North East India particularly in the states of Tripura, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, preaching Buddhism. After spending many years in places like Khalai Lalsiri in Tripura, Mariani, Silanijan and Tipomia in Assam, Ven. Aggravansa Mahathero reached Arunachal Pradesh in the year 1991.

He stayed in Innao Khamti Buddha Vihara as it’s abbot for seven years. During his stay in Innao Khamti Buddha Vihara, he used to supervise the affairs of many Buddha Viharas like Innao Buddha Vihara, Dumba Singpho Buddha Vihara, Mudoi Buddha Vihara and Kumchaikha Buddha Vihara. Ven. Aggravansa Mahathero was also one of the active executive members of the Arunachal Pradesh Bhikkhu Sangha.

After deputing a monk to look into the affairs of the Innao Khamti Buddha Vihara, Ven. Aggravansa Mahathero came to Mudoi in the year 1998. The then Goan Bura of the Mudoi Village, Late Kumki Nong Singpho, was very pleased at the arrival of Ven. Aggravansa Mahathero and extended all the helps he needed to look into the affairs of the Mudoi Buddha Vihara.

At his capable guidance a “samukathing” or “Sima” and other structures have been constructed at Mudoi Buddha Vihara. Ven. Aggravansa Mahathero had many disciples. With the help of the villagers of Mudoi, he organized ordination ceremony, wherein his novice monks Aggadisara and Jyotika, amongst other, were ordained.

It was his dream to construct and dedicate a Pagoda at Mudoi Buddha Vihara. His dream and wishes came true, when C.C Singpho, local MLA along with his family, Goan Bura of Mudoi along with the villagers came forward to construct the Pagoda in Mudoi.

It was 2nd February 2012, he left Mudoi for Tripura to visit his relatives. Entire Buddhist society of Diyun circle went into deep shock, when the news came that he died on 5th May’ 2012, at the house of Tani Mog at Ambassa in Dhallai District of Tripura on the way back to Mudoi.    

Ven. Aggravansa Mahathero, as a chief monk of Diyun Circle had command respect from all people irrespective of religious belief. His early demise in fact was an irreparable loss for the entire Buddhist society.