June -  07

• CM calls for bottom-of-the-pyramid, grassroots level schemes
• RWD becomes first in state to adopt eTendering
• Talong-Londa Hydro Project affected people demand fresh SIA and EIA
• ‘Royal Homage’ to Khandu
• MHRD assures central assistance
• NCP cautions govt and BJP on Ramdev
• AITC appeals for stringent govt actions
• Chief Minister Gamlin’s Dreams and Promises:Try fitting into Khandu’s shoes without getting blister
• World Environment Day
• Training on Data Base Management System
• Birup colony foundation stone laid
• ALSMA conference held

CM calls for bottom-of-the-pyramid, grassroots level schemes

Substantial funds for Tirap and Changlang

ITANAGAR, June 6: Delving on the issue of livelihoods and development, addressing a Conference of Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police at the State Banquet Hall, Chief Minister Jarbom Gamlin said that it is important that we create opportunities wherever people are. “We need to take up bottom-of-the-pyramid, grassroots level schemes that will benefit people living in their own areas and not have to move out. There is a very vital need to create livelihood opportunities and options within the districts and HQs as the only way to contain migration to urban centres. We must actively popularise entrepreneurship, tourism ancillary services, rural tourism, etc. and we must innovate on possible schemes that the government can take up to create employment for our youth”.

Terming the district administration as the critical contact point between the government and the people, Gamlin today stressed the need for these offices to be people-centric.

“It is through you that the government reaches out and connects to the people and therefore I view your role as central to the development process and have already asked all the Secretaries and Heads of the Departments to give first preference to the requests from Districts” he said

Setting the thrust areas of district administration, the Chief Minister emphasized that this government has to have a zero-tolerance policy on the issue of law and order. He said that the rule of law must prevail in the state and it was the responsibility of the district administration to ensure that it does. On its part, the state government would extend whatever support required for this. He urged upon the district administration to contain the bandh culture and said that monthly coordination meetings on security must be held. He also said that more vigilant checking of ILPs at the Check-gates has to be done in the light of the various on-going works in the construction sector because of which a lot of labour from outside the State is coming to work here. Intrusion of illegal immigrants through this route has to be checked.

He further disclosed that substantial funds would be made available to the twin Districts of Tirap and Changlang in the coming months for strengthening and modernization of the police set-up in these Districts. He said that we must ensure optimum utilization of these funds as per the requirements at the ground level.  On the matter of governance, Gamlin asserted that it is vital for existence of effective and flawless coordination between arms of the government, from the village level upwards. It must be horizontal at the district level, reaching out to the last administrative centre, as well as vertical to the highest levels in government. We cannot afford gaps in communication at any cost, he said. He also pointed out that in addition to monitoring the performances of on-going projects, the presence of HoDs and other government staff at their places of posting is also crucial. He called upon the DCs to make regular inspections of offices, schools and hospitals and take remedial action wherever required.

He further shared that while many of the Line Departments receive sufficient funds to create new infrastructure and upgrade existing infrastructure for their establishments, the District Administration and District Police is generally deprived of such resources. He conveyed that under Thirteenth Finance Commission last year, funds have been earmarked for repair and maintenance of District Administration assets at District, Sub-division and Circle Office level. Funds have also been provided through the Planning Department for up gradation of SP offices and one Police Station in each District, he said.

Calling for a pro-active stand on the PDS, Gamlin said that people are very vigilant and expectations on the issue are very high. With a view to streamlining the system he called for the re-operationalization of the Village Level Monitoring Committees, surprise checks by senior officers at FPS level, finalization of carriage contracts in a transparent manner and providing support to FCI for opening of godowns in 10 identified districts. He said that the most essential step to re-vitalize the PDS is the launch of e-PDS software application in all districts to check duplicate and bogus ration cards.

Touching upon the problem of land allotments in the district headquarters, Gamlin accepted that allotment of govt land in all urban centres is not in the best of shapes. However, he emphasised that it is time for us to find remedies and alternate solutions before things get worse. An exercise has been done to ascertain ground realities through a detailed survey and whatever decisions are taken as a result of this effort, will need to be enforced strictly. He also said that the process of acquisition of land for development projects and for the establishment of Army bases need to be facilitated for speedy procurement of land and felt that the District administration has to play a vital role as an interlocutor in this process through the PI networks, the PRIs as well as the GB system.

Lauding a range of initiatives taken up in the districts, Gamin said “We have been witnessing very commendable projects, ideas and practices that have been introduced in various districts. I can immediately recall the e-PDS, the vibrant children’s libraries, jan suvidha kendras, electronic record management as few examples. We need to replicate these best practices across the 16 districts by sharing experiences and resources.”

In the interactions that followed, the district officials brought out various difficulties faced by them like the shortage of PDS items, posting of officers, reinforcement of police force and ensuring provision of basic infrastructure to the police department in the districts. The Chief Minister assured that he will take express measures to address the issues and in course of the meeting also announced that with a view to connect 58 villages and 9 police outposts which are not yet covered by telephone or cellular networks, satellite phones will be provided to them. On matters of adequate funding to district HQs, recruitments and land allotment for police establishments, the Chief Minister conveyed that the government is committed to supporting its most important arm of governance. In turn, he appealed to the district officials to commit themselves to delivering the vision of a self-reliant Arunachal Pradesh.

 

RWD becomes first in state to

adopt eTendering

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, June 6: Rural Works Department (RWD) today became the first Government department in Arunachal Pradesh to adopt eTendering method for the road projects under Prime Minister Gram Sadak Yojna (PMGSY).

With launching of e-tendering the bid process will, now onwards, be more transparent, easier and less time consuming, RWD Minister Atum Welley said while addressing the departmental engineers, officials and other staff of RWD on the occasion of the launching ceremony of e-tendering here today.

A large habitations of Rural Arunachal is yet to be linked through road, Welley said. He urged his department to work with dedication and utmost sincerity to achieve the goal of PMGSY--the flagship programme of the Centre --which aims to connect rural areas of entire country by all weather roads based on population criteria. He sought the cooperation and support from the departmental engineers, project implementing units (PIUs) and all other staff for achieving the policies and programmes of his department.

Later, Welley formally launched the e-tendering web portal for PMGSY.

T. Bagra, Commissioner, RWD, briefed about e-tendering. He said that it is a web based  tender process where all the tender process are done online for more transparency and cost effectiveness.

While informing that 90 per cent of the entire state is  rural area, he urged the departmental officers to work harder to achieve the goal of PMGSY.

K. Tabiyo, Chief Executive Officer, ARRDA explained in details about e-tendering through power-point presentation.

He further informed that eTendering has been launched in the wake of the Centre’s instructions that only e-tendering method will be used for the PMGSY projects. So far, 18  states have adopted eTendering for PMGSY projects, Orissa being the first, he added.  Er. T. Welly, Chief Engineer, RWD and  Er. T. Habung, Senior Scientist, NIC also spoke on the occasion.

Departmental engineers, officials and staff from various districts attended the programme.

 

Talong-Londa Hydro Project affected people demand fresh SIA and EIA

ITANAGAR, June 6: The Talong-Londa Hydro Electric Project Affected People’s Committee (TLHEPAPC) has demanded preparation of  fresh social impact assessment (SIA) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports regarding construction  of 225 MW Talong-Londa Hydro Project.

In a representation to the deputy commissioner, East Kameng district, the committee said that it has found many discrepancies in the draft reports of EIA and SIA.   The methodology to address the cultural and demographic problems that may arise due to influx of labourers for dam construction should be spelt out clearly, the committee said while claiming that the SIA and EIA draft reports prepared by the EQMS India Pvt Ltd has failed to address the demographic and cultural issues of the project affected people.

Demanding review of the rehabilitation and resettlement plan for project affected people, the Committee said no deviation from the National Policy on resettlement and rehabilitation  for  project affected people shall be tolerated.  As per the section 12(2) of the National Resettlement and Rehabilitation Act, a Relief and Rehabilitation committee should be constituted  with involvement of NGO representatives  and PR leaders of the area, the committee said. The committee further threatened that unless and until a memorandum of agreement (MoA) is signed between power developer and affected people  in presence of administration for tackling law and order and any unseen incident during project construction period, it will not allow further  project activities.

The Committee also requested the power developer GMR Energy to release fund for construction of road between 19 km to 24 km on Seppa-Chayangtajo Tajo road  as per MoA signed  and  demanded release of compensation for forest  and land to the affected people at reasonable rate. It further said compensation for forest land should be released directly to the community people.

 

‘Royal Homage’ to Khandu

ITANAGAR, June 6: Arunachal Bullet Club (ABC) is organizing a ‘Royal Homage Ride’ in honor of former chief minister Late Dorjee Khandu from Itanagar to Tawang on June 11.

A team of 56 riders will be offering prayers in the memorial site of the Late chief minister at Tawang. The riders will also visit the family members, who have lost their dear ones in the chopper crash. The team will also ride up to the Bumla Pass, the last army post bordering China, to witness the road construction activities on the other side of the border.

Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture and etc. will flag off the riders team at Indira Gandhi Park at 6 am on June 11 in presence of WRD and Tourism Minister Pema Khandu and other dignitaries.

 

MHRD assures central assistance

ITANAGAR, June 6: Minister Education Bosiram Siram who is in New Delhi to attend Education Minister’s  Conference and 58th meeting of Central Advisory Board of Education met Secretary MHRD Anshu Vaisha today.

She assured to provide all kind of central assistance to make education better in the state as well as to ensure that all children, irrespective of gender and social category, have access to education.

She appreciated the state government’s move to accord top priority to the education sector while adding that Arunachal Pradesh has really done tremendous development in education sector during last few years and successfully set an example for the entire nation in RTE context.

During the course of discussion, Siram appraised the Secretary about the educational scenario of the state and reaffirmed the pledge of state government to provide free and compulsory education to all children under the age group of 6 to 14 years, maintenance of quality education, development of infrastructure including staff, school building delivery of child entitlements and teachers training facilities. He also mentioned that the state government has adopted entire centrally sponsored schemes on education at all levels and stands forth in partnership with government of India for all round development of the state.

Keeping in view the difficulties of teachers posted in the far flung areas of state, Siram expressed his serious concern and requested the Secretary to provide basic amenities besides 100% grant of salary of more than 6000 working teachers under SSA.

 

NCP cautions govt and BJP on Ramdev

ITANAGAR, June 6: While the NCP Arunachal records its protest in strongest terms against the brutality of the Delhi and Central Government perpetrated on the camp of Baba Ramdev, it also cautioned the “short sighted political parties like BJP and others not to play with the popularity of Baba Ramdev. This is quite a misadventure in a wrong way and may amount to playing with fire”.

Whatever has happened at Ramlila Maidan, New Delhi at the dead of the night on June 4th last clearly indicates that the Congress Government of the National Capital has gone absolutely crazy, by resorting to lathi charge and throwing tear gas shells on a large gathering, mainly of women and children at the Baba Ramdev’s Yoga congregation, the Delhi Government in connivance with the central government has exhibited the total loss of collective mental balance, said NCP president Ngurang Pinch. The action taken by the police and para military force is unambiguously barbaric and has crossed all the limits of sanity on the part of the Government. The incident calls for hardest condemnation from all quarters, it said.

However, the party said that certain basic questions have cropped up in the context of the whole episode beginning with Baba Ramdev taking up the issue of corruption. In the past 15-20 years he is propagating the Yoga in different parts of India and in other countries also. During the course of this period he is not known to have said anything about “Corruption”

The evident fact is that BJP is not only supporting Ramdev, the Sangh Parivar is engineering the movement.

Every body, even Ramdev knows very well that corruption and the black money issue cannot be wished away. Neither the wrong things which have spread its root all over the body politic of our country can be corrected by hunger strikes.

 

AITC appeals for stringent govt actions

ITANAGAR, June 6: The All India Trinamool Congress Arunachal Pradesh Unit has appealed to the new Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh to initiate stringent actions to improve work culture in the state. The party felt that there is a total breakdown of the work culture in all the departments of the state.

The development files are lying unattended for months together as officials absent themselves from office, it said.

The party also drew the attention of the new Chief Minister on waste full use of government vehicles by the officials even when they are not on official duty and kith and kin of the high ranking officials in the state.

The party also said that the new Chief Minister would issue necessary directives to ease out the traffic congestion in the Capital region while adding that construction of the four lane road from Hollongi to Itanagar, Itanagar to Banderdewa start early. The state Govt. could take up from its own  sources to improve and   upgrade the stretches of the NH 52A from the Mithun gate  to Gohpur Tinali and Papu Nallah to VV Giri gate at the earliest, the party said.

 

Chief Minister Gamlin’s Dreams and Promises:Try fitting into Khandu’s shoes without getting blister

Dr. Nani Bath

After some politics over the dead body of late Dorjee Khandu, political storms finally settle down to pave the way for our new chief minister to be in the driver’s seat. There were reports about signature campaigns and announcement of caretaker chief minister even before Khandu’s death was confirmed.

Jarbom Gamlin, the new chief minister, made his maiden address to the people with a sign of confidence and optimism, and he sounded quite accommodative. The much awaited address underscores an urgent need to minimize the distance between ‘others’ and ‘us’. The road ahead- for the progress and prosperity of the state- is difficult and rugged, CM Gamlin maintains.  He promised to carry forward the legacy of late Dorjee Khandu with an appeal to the people to remain united and be a partner in the developmental activities.

Chief Minister’s address revolved within the boundary of two Cs: co-operation from the people and carrying forward the legacy of late Dorjee Khandu. Many expected him to talk about another C, that is, corruption, which agitates the mind of every right thinking individual. Corruption, in the state, has been accepted as a social fact. Whether it is PDS scams or recent recruitment of 200 police constables, citizens would like to know the truth and action taken by the government. When a relative of mine had gone to Police Headquarters to enquire about the fate of wait-listed candidates, a babu smilingly asked him- “how much did you pay?” There is a serious allegation, by an NGO, of appointment of children of a minister in the department of Tax and Excise without following laid down rules and with forged documents. It is alleged that the present Chief Information Commissioner of State Information Commission, as the Commissioner Tax and Excise, okayed their appointment.

Arunachal Pradesh as an ‘Island of peace’ is an old idiom. Every Arunachalee knows it. One who knows Tirap or stays there knows that peace no longer prevails in the state if Tirap is considered as an integral part of Arunachal Pradesh. There is nothing in the name of law and order. Naga underground outfits consider it as their birthright to show the Tangsas, Noctes and Wanchoos the ‘way of salvation’. Our chief minister would be too optimistic if he still thinks that there is peace all around in the state. He did not speak anything about the law and order problem in Itanagar or any part of the state.

The Telegraph writes, “Though Khandu was in charge of hydro projects, the St. Stephen’s-educated Gamlin was in the know about the projects given his proximity to the late chief minister”. This cannot be absolutely false. Thus, we expected him to include hydro power projects as an important subject in his address to the people. There have been lots of reservations on signing of scores of MoUs with private companies, without considering the ecological and environmental impacts of such projects, by the Khandu-led government. Surely, there must have been exchanges of ‘commissions’ in order to cover up omissions. A good news and only solace is that the incumbent chief minister “would go by the report of the study being conducted on the state’s river basins”.

There would be very few chief ministers in the country who is as educated as Jarbom Gamlin. He is a product of St. Stiphen’s College, Delhi, undoubtedly the best in India. He earned his law degree from Delhi University. His experiences stretch from students’ activism to sports activities.  Expectations naturally run high when such decorative curriculum vitae catch the eyes of any onlooker. Therefore, positive side of his personality may run counter to his overall performance as the chief minister, especially when he is constantly being compared with his predecessor, late Dorjee Khandu, who did not go beyond middle school.

‘After Nehru, who?’ was a question in the minds of almost every Indian in the late fifties and early sixties. Now a question which is in the air is: how long will Gamlin’s government last?  It would be academically improper for me to make any guess. But I do not see any reason why he should not be able to guard his chair, given his experiences and family background, till the next general elections. His family background is such that he does not have to have any adviser. His immediate family circle is enough to guide him politically or otherwise. However, apprehension is that some of his relatives may become too tall to handle with.

Some words of caution for the chief minister. Gamlin as the Member of Parliament and minister is known by the people not only as an ‘articulate and straight forward’ person but he is also seen as a person with ‘outgoing and carefree’ nature. I would rate him in the category of Below Average when it comes to his performance as the Member of Parliament. As a member of Cabinet under Gegong Apang and late Dorjee Khandu, he gets a benefit of doubt. But he will not be counted as successful minister.

There are obstacles lie ahead for the chief minister. He seems to be too accommodative. Appointment of 20 parliamentary secretaries is a pointer towards this. Concentration of too much power with an individual minister (read: finance minister) might alienate him from the masses and his cabinet colleagues. Many government employees argue that the incumbent finance minister almost sabotaged the implementation of Sixth Pay Commission Recommendations in the state. In order to become the ‘darling of the people’ the chief minister has to rein on the people-unfriendly ministers. It is widely perceived that Mukut Mithi government did not enjoy good rapport with the people, particularly government employees, as he failed to limit the power of some of the ministers.

It is to be seen how many Advisers would be appointed by the chief minister. As already said, he would not be needing many advisers but it would be politically incorrect to have lesser number of advisers than his immediate predecessor. We only hope that he learns some lessons from our immediate neighbour Assam and Sikkim. People tell that the chief minister of Assam, Tarun Gogoi, was guided by an economist of repute and he listened to him almost religiously. Sikkim Sangram Parishad chief and the chief minister of Sikkim has a friend-adviser, who happens to be a professor from Jawaharlal Nehru University.

It is also to be seen how he handles with his political adversaries in his own district and constituency.  Students’ unrests in recent times and arrest of advocate Kenbom Bagra and AAPSU general secretary do not contribute anything positive to the image of the chief minister.

(Dr. Bath is a faculty in Rajiv Gandhi University and can be contacted at nanibath@rediffmail.com)

 

World Environment Day

ITANAGAR, June 6: With an objective to create awareness about the environmental problems faced at Bomdila & in order to explore means and ways to mitigate the same and to enhance political attention and public action, a one-Day workshop on Environmental Concerns & Solutions of Bomdila was held in the Multi Sports Indoor Complex today. The Workshop was conducted to commemorate the World Environment Day (WED) which is celebrated every year throughout the globe on 05th of June to express concerns for the increasing environment & its related problems.

Speaking on the occasion as the Chief Guest, MLA cum Parliamentary Secretary for Sports & Youth Affairs R.T Khunjuju reiterating the urgent need for conserving and protecting the environment, felt that such workshops should be conducted not only at the district headquarters but also at the Sub-divisional, Block and Circle levels. It is high time that we connect with the people and make them aware of the ill effects on agriculture, horticulture, Animal husbandry & Veterinary, fishery etc and above all on human existence, he added.

Impressing upon the people for regular sanitation drives, plantations & complete ban on use of plastic bags, Khunjuju called for a collective approach  if at all this workshop was to have some meaning & purpose.

Earlier, DFO Bomdila Dr Surabhi Rai, under whose endeavor this Eco-Education initiative was possible, in her address called upon all the departments, the NGOs & civil society to come forward to make this a people’s  mission. Commitment & endurance coupled with the missionary approach, is all which will pave the way for success, she quipped.

To make the workshop more realistic, resource persons were drawn from various sectors. While DMO Dr. Dani Duri & DSO Dr. Maity deliberated on Environmental Pollution & associated health hazards with video clippings & power point  presentations, Project Director (DRDA) D. Riba presented an overall view of the general Environmental problems of Bomdila. DAO T. Game and DHO N. Phoichulupa made their presentations on Agro-Biodiversity conservation through conservation of local varieties and Organic Farming – the Environment & Economic benefits respectively. One guest speaker from WWF India P.K Dutta contributed on Environment conservation & livelihoods.

Among others, Chairman Bomdila Lamps Dorjee Tsering, Chairman Teachers Cell (APCC) Sonam Thungon, BCC (I) Vice President Tsering Thinley, Director Green Himalayas Lobsang Genchen & Social worker Mane Tashi dealt on the various concerns & the need for immediate & effective conservation & protection measures.

Irked on the scarcity of potable water and the delay of the much publicized Mandela Phudung Drinking water project which already is way behind its schedule, public and Officers alike vented their frustrations and urged the department concern to speed up the works.

The day before and the previous, Divisional Forest Officer Shergaon Forest Division Dr. K.S Jayachandran organized the Rupa Nature Film festival at Rupa as part of the World Environment Day celebration. Planet Earth, Leopards and E-Waste, Planet Earth –Mountains, Mongoose brush, Global warming  & Bishnois, Planet Earth – Jungles, Planet Earth – Seasonal Forests, Planet Earth – Pole to Pole and Planet Earth – Ice Worlds were the short films screened during the 2- days Nature Film Festival in order to motivate & inspire the people towards environmental conservation and to explore various possibilities for the same.

The world environment day was also observed at Kanubari in Tirap District yesterday with various programmes. The function was jointly organized by Longding forest and Deomali forest divisions.

Participating in the programme, ADC N.Wangjen exhorted all the participants to create awareness on conservation of forest and environment adding that not only one day in a year but every day should be world environment day.

DFOs  Umesh Kumar and V.K.Jawal in their speeches urged the people to maintain greenery by planting more trees. They both expressed concern over the wanton destruction of forest posing a great threat to the environment.

Hundreds of saplings were planted in the premises of the new ADC office building and on the roadsides of Kanubari.

Local MLA N.Tingkhatra, ZPM Chairperson Rongnai Maham and public and government officials actively participated in the programme.

It may be mentioned that Kanubari is a newly upgraded ADC headquarter bordering Sibsagar district in Aassam and is famous for the many tea gardens that have sprung up, thereby maintaining the greeneries and augmenting the income of the local people. .

Environment Protection Society (EPS), Tawang has celebrated the World Environment Day with a three days programme at Tawang. Coincidently, June 5 is also the Foundation Day of the EPS.

More than 600 people including students from different schools took out an environment awareness rally to mark the World Environment Day. Other activities of the three days celebration include door to door distribution of free saplings, inter school essay writing competition on Global Warming and the importance of trees.

The Society appealed to every section of the people contribute for cleaner, greener and healthier earth.

Meanwhile, the Society lauded the Chief Minister Jarbom Gamlin for his support and encouragement to the Society. The Society also extended its sincere gratitude to Tawang MLA, Deputy Commissioner, DFO, police department, SSB, institutions and general public of Tawang for extending support to the Society in its endeavour for safe environment.

 

Training on Data Base Management System

ITANAGAR, June 6: A week-long training programme “Data Base Management System” for ministerial staff of A P secretariat, heads of department, Capital complex began at Administrative Training Institute, Naharlagun today. As many as 22 officials in the rank of LDCs, UDCs and assistants, superintendents are attending the programme.

Chief guest of the inaugural function, Nyabin Ete, director of State Institute of Rural Development (SIRD) called upon the participants acquire proper  knowledge and skill of computer application.  In the present context of administration and office management, proper knowledge of computer application is a requisite parameter to become an efficient supporting staff, he said. He further said that Data base management is the backbone of office management and requested the ATI to conduct more similar computer training on management of accounts of financial data too.

ATI has been giving top priority on computer and IT related training programmes in order to promote computer knowledge and enhance performance level at all levels of workforce in the Govt departments of the state, said director (training) Pema Tshetan in his address.

T Lodo, deputy director and course coordinator submitted a brief highlight of the course content.

The training programme is being conducted under 100 per cent course free sponsorship of DoPT, Govt of India under its plan assistance -1011-2012. Palvinder Singh, director of A to Z computer education and senior faculty Shabnam Khatun are the resource persons in the programme.  

 

Birup colony foundation stone laid

ITANAGAR, June 6: Parliamentary Secretary Food and Civil Supplies Lokam Tassar laid the foundation stone of Birup colony near Raj Bhavan, Itanagar in presence of Deputy Commissioner Capital Complex Pawan Kumar Sain on June 4.

Addressing the people of the new colony as chief guest Tassar, urged the colony committee to discourage criminal and immoral activities within the colony.

Further responding to a memorandum submitted by the colony committee, he assured to provide fund for construction of approach road from Sangrik Putung to HUDCO via Birup Colony in the current financial year and also assured to provide possible developmental works to the colony.

Guest of Honour, PK Sain also advised the committee to develop the colony into a systematic way.

 

ALSMA conference held

ITANAGAR, June 6: The 3rd Annual conference -cum-election of All Lower Subansiri Maxi Cab/Bus Association (ALSMA) was conducted on June 4 at Ziro.

Addressing the gathering as chief guest, All Arunachal Pradesh Public Transport Federation (AAPPTF), Chairman Takar Goi informed that the then All Arunachal Maxi Cab Association was formed in the year 2003 in order to look after the welfare of the drivers, owners and booking counter and to check the illegal donation in the name of unions/organizations in the state and unnecessary charge by the police personnel's in the various check gate in Assam and in Arunachal Pradesh.

He further said that after through persuasion made by the association, the requisition of vehicle by the Army personnel in Assam has stopped so far.

Highlighting the welfare activities of the forum, he said that the use of private commercial vehicles from outside the state should not be encouraged and added that BSNL, NHPC, NEEPCO or other corporate sectors etc. must hire local commercial vehicles. The vehicles on hire basis at various companies must be affiliated to All Arunachal Maxi Cab Association of the concern district in the state. He further urged the association/owners to check the fake driving licences.

Guest of Honour, All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) Arunachal Pradesh Unit President Toko Sheetal appreciated the ALSMA for their tireless service for the conveniences of the public without bothering about the bad weather and the tough road conditions.

Speaking on the occasion, she advocated for setting up of special resolution to check and protect the interest of the commercial driver from unnecessary problems created by the public. She further said that Government must frame certain rules and regulation for the welfare of the commercial vehicles owners from time to time and advised the association to take up welfare activities also.

Speaking on the occasion, AAPPTF General Secretary Dobing Sonam highlighted the activities of AAPPTF and informed that AAPPTF is a registered association under Indian Trade Union Congress (INTUC) Arunachal Unit as the association related to commercial vehicle cannot be registered under societies registration Act, 1860, he added.

Meanwhile, Hage Tana, Tamo Tatung and Toko Loma have been selected as president, vice president and general secretary of ALSMA in the conference.

 

School protection wall collapse

ITANAGAR, June 6: The RCC retaining wall which was constructed to protect the school building, has collapsed on June 4 last due to heavy rain fall said Senki Park Welfare Society in a release today.

The society appealed to the local MLA and apex student organization to visit the site and appraise the matter to the government.

 

BKM shines

ITANAGAR, June 6: The School Management Committee of Boum Kakir Mission School, Midpu appreciated the students of the institution for achieving 100% pass percentage in the class X CBSE exam 2010-11.

The committee also lauded the principal BL Sharma and teaching staff of the institution for outstanding performances of the students.

 

Rumgong facing problem

AALO, June 6: People of Rumgong Subdivision is said to be facing problems in conquering time and distance after attachment of Rumgong PHED Section to Mechuka subdivision.

The ZPM Rumgong, Tapang Jerang disclosed that matter has been taken up with appropriate authority and due consideration is being taken to address the woes of people in attending office and other public related matters.

Aalo subdivision is quite accessible and bypassing it by another 160 Km to reach Mechuka for all works is quite troublesome, rued Jerang.

 

Free coaching for SC/ST

ITANAGAR, June 6: Sub-Regional Employment Officer, Coaching cum Guidance Centre for SC/STs, Naharlagun government of India, Ministry of Labour and Employment would conduct 11 months free special coaching programme on Typewriting, Shorthand, general knowledge, general English and Basic Computer Knowledge from July 1.

The programme is being sponsored by Director General of Employment and Training, Ministry of Labour and Employment, GoI for the welfare of Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe candidates preparing for various competitive examinations.

10+2 passed interested candidates within age group of 18-30 years may apply before June 16.

 

Appointments

ITANAGAR, June 6: The panchayats leaders, Gaon Burahs (GBs) and members of Sree Abu Welfare Society (SAWS) and the members of Hospital (50-bed) Construction Monitoring Committee (HCMC) of two anchal segments of Tassar and Langbia have taken out Tassar Tachang and Tassar Tadu, from the posts of chairman and secretary respectively of HCMC, according to a release issued by Langbia ASM.

Meanwhile, ASM Tassar Nira (Rakap) and SAWS secretary Tassar Rajen have been appointed as new chairman and secretary of H&MC, (Jorung) Palin.

 

Dree Football

ZIRO, Jun 6: The 44th Dree Football Tournament, 2011 will begin from June 9 next.

Altogether 12 strong teams will vie with each other for the most prestigious trophy and the championship title. All the 12 participating teams are divided into four groups of three teams.

All Hija Sports Association, Zamra Club and Kings-XI are clubbed together in Group-A while Diibo Sports Club,  Zeal Football Club and Youngest Club Hari are in Group-B. Group C comprises Sojang Lapang Sports Club, Hari Sports Club and Dolo Mando Football Club while Group D includes Laji Bogia Sports Club, Bulla Tajang-XI and Puchi Putii Club.

Arunachal Pradesh Building & Others Construction Workers Welfare Board (APBCWWB) chairman Jalley Sonam will kick of the tournament as chief guest in the opening ceremony, according to Central Dree Festival Celebration (CDFC), 2011 release.

 

Flag in of Everesters

ITANAGAR: A “flag in” ceremony is being organized by Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs, at Banquet Hall, Itanagar on June 7, in honour of  Tine Mena & Anshu Jamsenpa who have scaled Mt. Everest recently making Arunachal Pradesh proud.

Chief Minister Jarbom Gamlin would attend the flag “Flag-In” ceremony as Chief Guest.

 

Officials take stock of PM package

Anini: The Principal Secretary, Power & Coordination and WRD, Dr. H.K. Paliwal, visited Anini along with Chief Engineer PWD ( Highway) Bora Ete, and Superintending Engineer, Namsai Division, DHPD R.K. Joshi to get the first hand information regarding progress in the various ongoing projects under Prime Minister’s Package and Hydro power projects in the district.

The team visited various places were the projects of PM Package and Hydro Power Projects are ongoing. The visiting team was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner, Dibang Valley District Abu Tayeng, EACs, COs and HoDs of various departments.

The delegation met the HoDs, Panchayat leaders, senior citizens and student leaders. They also had discussions with the HoDs about various developmental activities being taken up in the district. (DIPRO)

 

New APEDA chairman assumes office

ITANAGAR: MLA Punji Mara has assumed the charge of the chairman, Arunachal Pradesh Energy Development Agency (APEDA) today.

On the first day, Mara advised the officers and officials of APEDA to work hard for the interest of the agency and the state as a whole and sought full cooperation from them.

He also discussed about the need for welfare schemes for the low paid staff of the agency.

News Impact

 

Democratic right of our patriotic cricketers

Dear Editor,

Prior to the West Indies trip of India; many cricketers got  "injured", the skipper is in an "urgent need of rest" and a certain "Demi-God" has opted out from the series to "stay with his family". But strangely, all the overhyped superstars were "fully fit", "not tired a bit" and did not feel any "longing for the family" when the IPL season was on!

It is nothing but disgusting that the filthy-rich Indian cricketers who were just raring to go to represent their respective franchises in the money-machine circus named IPL, feel absolutely no qualms in forsaking  national interests. In contrast, many Australian cricketers excused themselves from IPL in the last 4 editions of the tournament, despite handsome offers; so as to remain fully fit, injury-free and energetic and to do proper justice to their baggy green caps.

If it is the "democratic right" of our "patriotic" cricketers to choose IPL over Tests and ODIs and render service to their franchisees instead to the nation, they are absolutely free to do so; but the Central and all the state Governments should also refrain itself from bestowing them with State awards, monetary rewards, tax-concessions, free flats or land at token value.

Yours,

Kajal Chatterjee,

Kolkata,  (on email)

 

 

Give our youth a chance

Dear Editor,

I would like to draw the attention of all the citizens of Arunachal to the grievous practice of some of our short-sighted legislators and department heads in recklessly offering regular jobs to some eagerly-bribe-offering non-Arunachalees, that too, without following any state recruitment rules.

In the backdrop of the recently exposed 2000 illegal appointments in various departments, these kind of practice is even more concerning, as in the present times, there are numerous unemployed Arunachalee youths desperately vying for any job possible that may secure their sustenance.

If the needy youths of Arunachal cannot get their means of survival under their own government, then where shall they go and seek help. It is not a question of choice for our youths now, but, a matter of survival.

These kind of practice where the appointments are done without any advertisement or conducting any interview by any board are self annihilating and self-esteem degrading to the youths of Arunachal in particular and to the people in general.

It is to hit the words hard into the minds of the few visionless Arunachalee legislators and department heads that, don't undermine your own people, give our youth a chance, let them grow and let them gain experience so that, when the time comes they can teach their children how to work for the betterment of their people and their land.

Not attending to these desperate calls will certainly bring law and order problems to the state and also bad names to those leaders and bureaucrats as a consequence to the desperately venting minds of the youth.

Yours,

Tangmi

Changlang, (on email)

 

 

Mass transfer & quarter problem

Dear Editor,

Mass transfer planning of GNM/ANM in Arunachal Pradesh is not judicious.

This step of the government will create hue and cry in the state. Although some little fraction of the transferred GNM/ANM welcome this policy of the state government because of personal reasons.

Before taking such decisions, Government should calculate the necessary TAs/DAs. Can Government of Arunachal Pradesh afford such gross amount on touring allowance at a same time? If no, transferred staff cannot be the victim and struggle for the same.

Before issue the order of transfer and posting of staff, government should think about acute quarter problems in its state. Obviously government cannot allot quarters to all the transferred staff.  This create problems to the entire family of the staff particularly for those school going children.

The Present mass transfer policy of the government shall have a severe effect in outpost hospitals where there is one doctor or Pharmacist or health assistant. In such cases when a doctor or medical staffs remain absent, a medical attendant attends to the patient. This practice is going on in interior hospitals of Arunachal Pradesh.

Finally, I would like to appeal to the government and citizens of Arunachal Pradesh that resides in remote areas facing hardship on medical issues to reconsider the mass transfer policy.

Before taking any action infrastructures of the institution should be evaluated.

More over, I have a humble appeal to the VIPs of Arunachal Pradesh not to pass comments for establishment of new institutions like hospitals, dispensaries, schools etc, until and unless infrastructure is sanctioned fully to avoid from becoming a cow shed. Government should be judicious so that the state along with its people and environment shall go forward towards prosperity.

Yours,

Gekong Pertin,

(on email)

 

 

Request to BSNL

Dear Editor,

I want to draw the kind attention of the BSNL officers those who are responsible for the failure of network since two months at Kalaktang. we actually dont know the real things behind this, but most probably we the staff are facing the problem most, because like this area all are staying here without family and it is necessary to contact with family daily. And also with the children those are studying outside.

Hence once again I like to request the BSNL authority to look into the matter as soon as possible.

Yours,

T.D.Mijiji,

Kalaktang, (on email)

 

 

 

 

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----Editor

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