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2009

Children rafts at Poma River

ITANAGAR, July 29: School children had fun today as they went River rafting.

A Raj Bhavan initiative, the department of Tourism in collaboration with Youth and Sports Affairs department and logistic support from the Army, a river rafting programme for school children was conducted at Poma area, 35 km from Itanagar today. Thirty students, including seven girls from Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy, Chimpu participated in the event titled as ‘Sadbhawana Rafting Programme.’

Arunachal Pradesh Governor Gen JJ Singh, an ace adventurer himself, who enjoys outdoor activities, took up the river rafting programme for school children with Army’s 3 Corps, stationed at Tezpur recently. Showing enthusiasm on the programme and it willingness in providing help to the people of Arunachal Pradesh in any way possible on ‘Sadbhawana’, the Army entrusted eight river rafting experts, led by Subedar P.K. Nair from 3 Engineer regiment for the programme along with required equipments, such as raft, paddles and lifejackets etc.

During the daylong event, the children and other participants were educated and trained on the basics of river rafting by the rafting instructors. Going through the minute details of it, Subedar Nair gave extensive lecture on lifejacket, paddle and on the raft, the rubber boat. He also gave suggestions for emergency cases. Later, under watchful eyes of Nair and other personnel, the children and other enthusiastic participants received practical experience of rafting in the Poma River.

Closely coordinating the event with the concerned departments and institutions, Secretary to Governor Amit Singla pointed, the effort of the Governor will definitely help in inculcating spirit of adventure and competition amongst the younger generations. Along with goodwill or Sadbhawna of the local populace for the Army, it will also boost the adventure tourism in Arunachal Pradesh, especially the Poma area, which has huge potential.

Tourism Director A.K. Singh, who was present during the programme along with his Assistant Director Gedo Eshi at Poma, overseeing the activities interacted with the children and impressed upon them on importance and links between adventure sports and tourism. Insisting on good ethics and environmental concern by every individual while in the nature, Singh emphasized on ensuring the activity area clean before leaving the spot.

Meanwhile, extending gratefulness to the Governor, the army and tourism department, on behalf of the participating students and the school, Principal of Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy, Pubi Lombi pointed, this is the first time the children of the Academy had adventure activity and he expressed hope for some more such initiatives from Raj Bhavan in the future.

River rafting is now a primary activity in most parts of the world. Preferred by individuals who want to have a wonderful break between hurried days and by groups who want to have a fun and dynamic outdoor team activity, rafting, especially White Water Rafting is continuously becoming popular these days. The thrill of having an adrenaline-filled adventure easily motivates any adventurous soul to get an oar and hop to the nearest inflatable Raft. Some people, on the other hand, do White Water Rafting to experience a different kind of outdoor activity at least once in their lifetime.

Some of the White Water Rafting benefits that the willing and the daring derive from this extreme sport are Nature adventure, Great work out, challenges, stress reliever and team work.

White Water Rafting is for people who love the great outdoors. Set against breathtaking sceneries, this activity provides an exhilarating experience for those who want to have a one-of-a-kind nature adventure. Rolling rapids, meandering rivers, and scenic backdrops draw anyone even the most unwilling person to try Rafting. (PRO to CM)

Governor calls for tapping horticultural potential

ITANAGAR, July 29: We have huge potential in horticultural activities and we should initiate steps to exploit it to the best , said Arunachal Pradesh Governor Gen JJ Singh, while interacting with progressive farmers at Dirang, West Kameng district today. Gen Singh, who is on a three-day maiden visit to the district, visited orchards and horticultural farms in and around Dirang and sheep breeding farm at Sangti, 70 km Bomdila. Accompanied by First Lady Anupama Singh, the governor also visited National Research Center on Yak, Dirang, Kiwi farm and apple orchards at Namtung and Jimthung in Dirang circle.

Impressed by the hardworking people of the district, the Governor exhorted them to use latest technologies and ideas to enhance their productivity. He gave away latest horticultural kits to fifty progressive farmers on the occasion.

Giving emphasis on the cash crops, floriculture, orchid cultivation and bee keeping, Gen Singh stressed on financial empowerment of the rural populace. He urged upon the government officials, especially the heads of department to be proactive to ensure financial empowerment of the people. He also advised them to motivate the indigenous population towards entrepreneurships. Stating that agro-horti activities are going to be the main pivot of State economy, he informed that State Government is giving immense importance to it. Policies are framed to ensure that people benefit from such activities.

The Governor pointing at the huge potential for tourism of the region expressed that it can bring enormous change in the rural economy. It has its vital importance as this district provide the connectivity for the tourists to have the privilege to tour the land of Lamas and the world renowned Tawang Monastery. To facilitate it, he advised all to have a very welcoming attitude towards the tourists and guests. Exhorting the people to demonstrate the highly admired tribal hospitality, he pointed that it should be endeavour of all to ensure their comfortable stay on the lines of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava.’ Once it gets flowing, with huge tourism potential, people will prefer Arunachal instead of other places and all Arunachalees will prosper, he added.

On his arrival to the district headquarter, Bomdila yesterday Gen Singh paid a visited Bomdila Monastery and interacted with the monks.

AAPSU retorts to Gamlin’s clarifications

ITANAGAR, July 29: All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union said that Home Minister Jarbom Gamlin’s clarifications were an “attempt to absolve from constitutional and moral responsibility”.

The Union is in logger head with the state government as it wants ouster of the Home minister from the Dorjee Khandu led cabinet. The union says the Home Minister did not perform the duties expected.

The press release issued by the Home Minister, is nothing but the act of mortgaging the constitutional responsibility to a family responsibility and desperate attempt to dilute the issue including showing his complete arrogance.

AAPSU wishes to see as an active Home Minister not a mere paper tiger. Keeping the high tradition of democratic institution and public office, Home Minister should gracefully accept the entire lawlessness situation in the state and recurring boundary issue, it said.

“The union is startled by way the Home Minister is completely unaware of the ground reality of the long pending border tangle with Assam. The state government is yet to submit before the Boundary commission and no documentary evidence is prepared and hence, the responsibility is to be fixed on Home Minister” said it’s President Takam Tatung in an email message.

He said that issues raised against the State Home Minister by the union is nothing personal but against the person for his inability to discharge his constitutional duty. The present demand for ouster of the home minister is on going demand of the union, and the present tenure of the union is just carrying forward the action of the previous tenure of the union.

The word “personal considerations” used by Home Minister against the President of AAPSU is highly objectionable. AAPSU dares the home minister to substantiate his allegation. AAPSU term this statement of Home Minister as showing his mere arrogance and admittance of failure to perform his duty as home minister of the state, he added.

On repatriation of the officers of the education department, the union stated that it is very clear that the “time frame given to Minister Education to act on the issue is yet to end”.

The union extends its gratitude’s for acting on its demand by initiating the process of repatriation of officers and teachers who are on deputation to various departments, it added. On the law and order issue, the union stands firms on its demands without any prejudice to any one. On Wangcha Raj Kumar, the union had simply said that CBI investigation reports should be made public and the non state actor should be punished, it added.

The wide spread response and support given by the people to the union’s bandh on July 27 speaks volumes about the gravity of the one point issue raised by the union for ouster of the Home Minister for failing to perform his constitutional duty, Takam added.

Team takes stock of Seppa College

ITANAGAR, July 29: A team from Department of Higher and Technical Education headed by its Director Dr. Joram Begi visited Seppa to take stock of the progress for establishment of Govt. College at Seppa.

The team along with DC Pige Ligu and members of EKSWCO visited Govt. HSS, Seppa on July 27 to assess ongoing work progress for construction of boundary wall and renovation of school building. Next day, to assess technical feasibility, the team visited proposed permanent site for college located at Wessang.

After verification of the site, a meeting was held in DIET complex. Dr. Begi suggested acquiring 30 acres of additional land since the already acquired land of 20 acres is not sufficient for the purpose.

For this he requested the EKSWCO members to negotiate the neighbouring land owners to donate land voluntarily so that the project can be started at the earliest. While congratulating the people of East Kameng in general and the land donors in particular Dr. Begi pointed out that 20% gross enrollment can sustain economic growth as far as Gross enrolment ratio is concerned.

Mean while the DC Seppa highlighted the importance of education in the District. He said that the district like East Kameng whose literacy rate is the lowest, should emphasize in establishment of educational institutions. He viewed that education is the only source for overall development in the district. EKSWCO members have viewed that the visit of Dr. Begi and team will bring positive outcome not only for establishment of the college but also for development of infrastructure in pre-pry to Higher Secondary level, posting of teachers etc.

Dr.D.Piji, AGS, EKSWCO said that it would put all efforts to start the project at the earliest. He also gave assurance that in due course of time they would negotiate the land owners and communicate the same to District Administration and the Govt. as early as possible. (DIPRO)

CM assures 20 months arrears

ITANAGAR July 29: The state chief minister Dorjee Khandu after discussion with the Ad-hoc Working Committee of CoSAAP today has assured to release minimum of 20 months arrear pay instead of 15 months as announced earlier and notification for the release of 10 months arrear pay to be notified in the same order.

Khandu has also agreed to grant at least one allowance before the assembly elections and revocation of transfer order of CoSAAP office functionaries.

He also agreed to implementation of part-B of CPC for certain categories of posts and enhancement of superannuation age from 58 to 60 years.

The Ad-hoc Working Committee of CoSAAP had submitted a seven point’s memorandum to the chief minister.

The other demands of CoSAAP included issue of election duty certificate and security during elections.

The pen/tools down strike scheduled on August 5 stands suspended said a release of the Ad-hoc working committee of CoSAAP.

It however said that the second phase strike scheduled from August 12 to 14 and August 20 to 21 will be decided later depending on the Cabinet decision of August 7 next.

Selection of schemes should need based

AALO, July 28: West Siang Deputy Commissioner Amjad Tak while presiding over the district level screening committee meeting of Border Area Development Plan for financial year 2009-10 here on Tuesday called for selection of schemes actually beneficial to the people at the grass root.

He insisted on proper planning Tak discouraged petty schemes, which are not feasible and deterrent to the monitoring process in ensuring quality.

He asked the executing agencies that the completed works taken up under BADP if not handed over should be done at the earliest and furnish status and quality of the work done. Further, he instructed the nodal department to obtain No Objection Certificate from the departments to ease the screening process and avoid duplicities.

Responding to a memorandum of Payum Anchal Chairperson, the DC suggested Rumgong ADC to ensure that Payum gets 50% of share as Kaying benefited under BADP because of Payum.

MLA Tadik Chize observed that the prime target of BADP is to facilitate development of people living within 25 kms from the border and to ease the movement of para-military forces guarding the country. He stressed on the need to consider the schemes of porter track and suspension bridges on priority.

Zilla Chairperson Jarsa Gamlin urged to compile and distribute the materials related to BADP to all concerned so that every body is aware of the schemes implemented. BADP would fill-up the left out but important works under AOP of the state govt, he said.

The CD blocks of Mechukha – Tato, Monigong – Pidi and Kaying – Payum received Rs 1,48,52,632/- each under BADP with ITBP getting a share of 10% from each block. (DIPRO)

Free eye camp draw hundreds

KHONSA, July 29: The free eye camp organized by Tirap District health department successfully concluded on Tuesday.

Dr. K. Darang from Naharlagun and Dr. T. Kanna from Changlang both senior Eye Specialists conducted the camp. Altogether 700 patients were screened for various eye ailments of which 31 patients were operated for cataract and 15 patients underwent minor operation. Free medicines were distributed to the patients.

Parliamentary Secretary, Thajam Aboh who attended the valedictory function as chief guest in his speech appreciated the DMO and his team for the successful eye camp and hoped that such camps would be conducted frequently to benefit the poor people from interior places.

Earlier in the day, the local MLA, Kamthok Lowang visited the District Hospital and distributed fruits to the patients who had undergone eye operation. He also lauded the Health department for the initiative. Both the MLAs donated Rs. 20,000/- each to the organizers in appreciation. Later, DMO, Dr. S. Ronya thanked the MLAs for their encouragement and the HoDs for their support.

It may be mentioned here that the free eye camp held at Khonsa was inaugurated by in charge DC, Habung Donyi on July 25.

The eye camp was a huge success in terms of reaching out to the poor patients who cannot afford expensive treatment outside. The public have appreciated the Health Department for the camp.

Common Accounting System

ITANAGAR, July 29: A two-day training, sponsored by NABARD Itanagar, was organized at the Naharlagan at Cooperative Training Center from July 27 on ‘Common Accounting System” (CAS).

The training was inaugurated by the Registrar of Cooperative Societies (RCS) in presence of JRCS and the NABARD General Manager.

CAS has been made mandatory after the recommendations of the Vaidyanathan Committee, which would be implemented after amendment of the Cooperative Societies Act by the state govt. The System would bring uniformity in writing books of accounts maintained by the LAMPS and also ensure consolidation of accounts to facilitate smooth flow of information regarding their working.

39 representatives from various LAMPS took part in the training.

Training on “capacity building & skill development” against bird flu held

KHONSA, July 29: A daylong training programme for the Veterinary Officers, Privets, RRT member of Tirap district on “capacity building and skill development against Avian Influenza” was successfully organized at the DBYC auditorium hall, Khonsa recently by the A.V & Veterinary department, Tirap. The training programme was inaugurated by Habung Donyi, ADC Tirap and attended by HoDs.

Dr.D.Longri, DVO. Tirap, speaking on the occasion presented a detailed report on the activities done by the A.V & Veterinary department in the district against the control and containment of the highly pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 or Bird Flu in the district. At the present scenario of Bird Flu threat in the country Dr.Longri, emphasized the importance and need for further strengthening the alertness and preparedness measures which includes sensitization of all the workforce of the Veterinary department, particularly the Rapid Response Teams (RRTs), regular conduct of awareness campaign programme on the disease, strict monitoring and surveillance of the H5N1 virus by both clinical and sero-surveillance activity.

Dr.Longri had also spoken at length about the recent emergence of outbreak of the disease called Influenza A (H1N1) commonly known as “Swine Flu” the world over. He had tried to remove the widespread confusion among the general public as regards to this disease which is called Swine Flu.

Resource person from Directorate (AHV) Nirjuli/Itanagar Dr.B.Biswakarma and Dr C.Gao had elaborately conducted the technical session using Flow charts, LCD Projectors etc. The trainees were sensitized about the Action Plan of the GOI regarding Pre-outbreak preparedness like surveillance, sample collection etc, step to be taken in case of suspicion of outbreak of HPAI, action plan in case of outbreak of HPAI is confirmed and Biosecurity measure and advice to persons handling HPAI infected poultry.

ADC, Tirap Habung Donyi, while speaking on the occasion appreciated the effort of the department in conducting such an important and essential training programme and asked all concerned to remain co-ordinated and prepared to tackle any eventuality that might arise out of Bird Flu or Swine Flu in the district. DFO, Khonsa V.K.Jawal and DMO, Dr.S.Ronya also spoke on the occasion.

The training programme on “capacity building and skill development against Avian Influenza” had successfully tried to put in place the strategy of the GII to contain the disease at source i,e. at the level of animal itself. This is the principal way to reduce opportunities for spread of the disease and for possible human infection. Therefore, disease intelligence, active animal surveillance, strengthening of early warning system in the per-outbreak stage and total culling in prescribed radius results in rapid containment in the pre-break phase are critical aspects to reduce such opportunities for spread of infection.

The training programme was attended by all the Veterinary Officers, Privates, RRT members and Forest officials of the district. (DIPRO)

Union demands accountability

ITANAGAR, July 29: National Students’ Union of India, Arunachal Pradesh State Unit, Vice President Kafa Bagang appealed the concerned department to ensure accountability in the functioning of the office of the Assistant Engineer, Khenewa and Chayangtajo Sub-Division.

Appealing the concerned authority to take necessary action, he said that Assistant Engineer is not attending the office at Chayantajo for last three months and the public are facing hardship due to his absence.

Education in Arunachal- A perspective

Shanti Linggi

Every morning we wake up to news of which some are not really so new at all. One such news is the appearance of appeals, complaints and even threats of launching agitation by individuals and groups alike- all pertaining to the educational issues.

Some are worried by lack of infrastructures and others are appalled by the lack of dedication on part of teachers. Worrying and expression of concern augurs well for the society as whole and the students in particular. But while some are really concerned, there are those who do not give a dime about what’s going on.

On part of those who care, it’s really saddening to know that our state comes last among all the north eastern states with a meagre 54.74% literacy rate. So in spite of the noble endeavours shouldered by our people in time we have not achieved enough i.e we have not matched our potential.

It is time for introspection. Where have we gone wrong? Perhaps we all know the answer! With various private institutions and mission schools springing up in past decade, the tendency to neglect the village schools grew. The negligence did culminate into the failure of village education. The urban governmental schools have managed to keep going.

An effort to understand the causes leads to the emergence of following facts. (The observation is in reference to entire Arunachal Pradesh).

As leaders and influential people began to bypass village institutions, the infrastructural assets collapsed. Contractors followed dubious process of execution of works as is common today. The classroom buildings were built small and poor in quality. The furniture supplied is either defective or stolen from other village institution which in turn deprives other places. Cases of theft of furniture and fans have been found in urban areas also.

On the other hand, teachers refuse to serve in interior, rural pockets. People recall the past when teachers dedicatedly used to live in villages and learn the local dialects in order to be able to teach the village children. It leads us to wonder where have all the dedication gone?

In this age when people enjoy all the comforts at their finger tips in urban areas, why should be teachers be left behind? Perhaps that clears some doubts. With improper execution of road works, transportation to villages becomes tough. It impinges the other processes of development to roll out into the interior pocket. Which ultimately leads to costlier goods and services in rural areas, medical facilities becomes hard to avail, hitting the teachers at their belly.

A step towards the alleviation is for us is to show a little concern, care with a bit of action, by being a little vigilant and being a little helpful will make a big difference. The elevation of village institutions will revitalize the rural education scenario and we as people need to play our part.

(Contributor is a Lecturer, Don Bosco College, Itanagar)

RNU bulletins

ITANAGAR: In question put forward by MP Takam Sanjoy, Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr S Jagathrakshakan said that Prasar Bharati Itanagar will introduce the regional news bulletins in Hindi and English in the state from August next.

Three escapes from Diyun Judicial Lock up

Changlang: Three accused escaped from Diyun Judicial custody in Changlang district on July 27. Sengong @ Kumnentang Singpho was arrested under C/No.DYN/PS/01/09 U/S 392/120(B) IPC R/W SEC 25(1A)(1B)/27(2) of Arms Act, Indongduja Sinngpho C/No.DYN/PS-09 U/S 326/34 IPC and Sotabachi Chakma C/No.DYN/PS19/09 U/S 397 IPC escaped at the night, he informed.

Incharge Extra Assistant Commissioner, Diyun Dakto Riba was informed of the accident by Officer in Charge, Police station Diyun.

The incident took place due to sheer negligence on the part of the police Department as the lock-up cell of the three accused was found locked with handcuffs lock instead of strong locks, informed Riba.

Police department has been directed by the local administration to take immediate steps to nab the absconding culprits.

Mass Comm.

ITANAGAR: The Department of Mass Communication, Rajiv Gandhi University will conduct its entrance test for Admission to Post Graduate Diploma in Mass Communication, session 09-10, on 1 Aug 10: 00 a.m. onwards at the Extension Centre, Naharlagun, Opposite EAC Office.

July- 30