June -  23

• Ngandam underscores the need for maximum food production
• BJP accuse state govt of neglect
• Centre to consider release of Rs 185.43 crore for up-gradation of Naharlagun general hospital
• AAPSU appeals for increase in stipends
• AAPWS apprise govt on women related issues
• RGU undergrad results declared
• CEO takes stock of poll preparedness at Jang
• AAPWU demands labour court in Arunachal
• ALSU resents Govt’s Apathy
• Manipur felicitate Anshu
• Resentment against conspiracy
• A Tribute to a Missionary Lady
• NEC’s Innovative Teaching Practices
• Health awareness camp

 

UAEA reiterates demands

ITANAGAR, June 22: Expressing grave concern over the growing number of unemployed educated youths in the state, Unemployed Arunachalee Engineers Association (UAEA) reiterated its demand for 25 per cent reservation of job in private companies and Govt undertakings as per MoU in the state.

Despite signing of MoU with state Govt, the private companies and corporations failed to reserve even five per cent of job for local educated youths, the Association resented.  It further castigated the Govt for its failure to respond to the 10-point memorandum of the Association which was submitted earlier to chief minister.  It also sought cooperation of the NGOs in its fight against illegal appointments and deputation system.

 

BJP meet

ITANAGAR, June 22:  The 15 members State BJYM office bearers led by its state president, Doni Nich left here this evening to  attend the two days BJYM Northeast state Units Sammelan being held at Guwahati on June 23-24.

The Sammellan is expected to focus on the problems of youths of this region and means of addressee it.

 

APSTSU appointment

ITANAGAR, Jun 22: Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe Students’ Union (APSTSU) has appointed former ANSU president Niglar Veo as chief adviser and former ALSU finance secretary Suraj Tayam as Spokesperson.

 

APPSU supports youths

ITANAGAR, June 22: While extending its solidarity with V-Lower Balijan Youth Organization, All Papum Poma Students’ Union (APPSU) has appealed to the  state Chief secretary to  ensure that  all officers and officials attend office regularly under Balijan circle. Official works should not be hampered due to absenteeism of officials, the union said and cautioned the Govt officials who are neglecting their duty on the pretext of bad communication in the area.

 

Org formed

ITANAGAR, June 22: A new organization, namely, All Arunachal Pradesh Anti-Corruption Organization (AAPACO) has been formed in a meeting held at Naharlagun today. The meeting selected Kipa Kanam and Bomer Sindu as president and general secretary of the organization.

 

NYC urges

ITANAGAR, June 22: Nyishi Youth Council (NYC) has urged the state Govt to  take urgent step for arresting reporter Pradip Thakur  for his derogatory remarks in his report published  in Times of India on May 4 last.

While pointing out the formation of sub-committee of Nyishi legislators to pursue the matter vigorously with the state Govt for its logical conclusion and 20 days time given by All Nyishi Students Union for proper action against Thakur, NYC chairman Bamang Tuglik urged the state Govt to arrest the reporter within 15 days. The NYC claimed that the committee failed to come out with fruitful and logical conclusion within the given time.

 

Deprived bidders called re-verification of commodity sample

ITANAGAR, June 22: The deprived 15 bidders of SSA/EGS tender held at Hapoli yesterday submitted a complaint to Deputy Commissioner, Lower Subansiri District today and sought re-verification of sample and justify the rate as per government approved rate.

The deprived bidders alleged that the board members of tender have selected two firms as lowest bidders without justifying the present market price and in total violating the NIT standard norms.

 

FIR against Minister, APSIC Chair

ITANAGAR, June 22: An FIR has been lodged at  Basistha Police Station, Guwahati against Health Minister Atum Welly, Chief Information Commissioner Y D Thongchi and Anung Welly, an employee of Department of Art and Culture.

The complainant Sahiba Ahmed stated that despite records to prove that Anung Welly was appointed as SCO in the Department of Art and Culture when her father was the Minister in charge, using fraudulent means, no action has been initiated.

Welly allegedly gave a fake graduation certificate obtained from Beltola College to get the job of SCO.

While calling on Assam Police to unearth the truth, the complainant further added that so far no action has been initiated either by the University or College authorities in Guwahati to figure out what led to possession of certificate despite not attending the college.

 

‘Heymeda’, an Apatani audio album released

ZIRO, June 22: An Apatani audio Album titled ‘Heymeda’ (Kasam Se) sponsored by the Pratigya Housing, Finance & Construction Company Ltd. (PHFCCL) has been released in a small but attractive function held at Pratigya Resort, Birii on June 18 last.

A DORADO’s production, ‘Heymeda’ audio album contain vocals of the father of modern Apatani song Hage Komo, Arunachal’s melody queen Mibi Nyodu, new comer in Apatani singing industry Bamin Anni.

PHFCCL’s Chairman-cum-Managing Direction, Dipten Banerjee and the Director Sambit Banerjee released the album amidst huge gathering of music lovers.

 

CCC criticizes Ramdev, Hazare

ITANAGAR, June 22: City Youth Congress today criticized Baba Ramdev and Anna Hazare for their recent hunger strike in national capital.

Addressing a meeting at party office today, City Youth Congress president Kipa Babu explained in details about the merit and demerits of hunger strike by the both persons.

Many speakers disapproved and condemned their  way of protest and termed it politically motivated.

 

Org appeals to govt

ITANAGAR, June 22: Arunachal Pradesh Abo Tani Clans Youth Organisation (APATCYO) appealed to the state government to check absenteeism of government officials and staff in all the government departments.

It further appealed to the Home Minister and capital administration to take up necessary step for proper checking of hotels.

 

AAPSU consultative meet on NPF

ITANAGAR: All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU) is going to organize a consultative meeting on NPF decision to start their Arunachal unit. The meeting will be held on June 26 at Banquet Hall, Itanagar.

AAPSU urged all the political leaders, NGOs, student unions, civil society groups to actively participate in the meeting. AAPSU Specially urged Panchayat leaders, MLAs of Tirap and Changalng, political representatives including NPF Arunachal unit members to attend the meeting.

 

BJP protest

ITANAGAR:  Bharatiya Janata Party Arunachal Pradesh would join the nationwide protests from June 23-27 over various issues of national importance including corruption, price rise, and inaction by the centre on black money stashed in foreign banks, and uncontrolled prices hikes of the petroleum products

At Itanagar the protest programme would take place on June 27.  The BJP central in-charge for Arunachal Pradesh state unit and Lok Sabha MP, Bijoya Chakraborty and the BJP-NE States-in-Charge, P. Chandrasekhar Rao would also participate at Itanagar Programme.

 

Death anniversary of Prem Bhai

ITANAGAR: The Catholic community of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Banderdewa would celebrate the 3rd death anniversary of Brother Prem Bhai with a 3-day programme from June 26.

The ‘Holy Eucharistic Celebration’ to be held on June 28 would be presided over by Rt. Rev. John Thomas DD, Bishop of Itanagar.

News Impact

Ngandam underscores the need for maximum food production

Arunachal Pradesh Food Processing Investors Meet

NAHARLAGAN, June 22: Our priority should be on maximum production of horticultural and agricultural products in order to boost the economy of Arunachal Pradesh without worrying too much on marketing avenues, said Honchum  Ngandam, Agriculture and Horticulture Minister while inaugurating the Arunachal Pradesh Food Processing Investors Meet on Wednesday at Banquet Hall. He said marketing need would take care of itself when there’s a steady flow of different food crops as many investors are ready to invest in food processing sectors.

The minister stated that the state is marching ahead as a key production leader in horticultural products in the North east especially in Kiwi, apple and other crops though proportionate advancement in technology and infrastructure sector is yet to be made adequately.

Calling upon the participants to adopt a pragmatic outlook, Ngandam urged them to endeavour to produce different crops as per climatic and soil suitability. He also concurred with the suggestion given by Parliamentary Secretary Wangki Lowang, advocating for promotion of traditional crops and working  out requisite technological and marketing plan in order to support the local farmers.

Parliamentary Secretary Agriculture Likha Shaya, also a progressive farmer, called upon the people to take up a practical approach to cultivation, adding the state has tremendous scope for cultivation of all types of crops. Relating his personal experience, the Parliamentary Secretary informed that though the state lacks technological and other infrastructural foundation, entrepreneurs would get adequate returns with persistent endeavors. He also stressed on adoption of contract farming and buy back policy in the state for promotion of food industry in the state.

Science and Technology Parliamentary Secretary Wangki Lowang gave a clarion call to the preservation of all traditional crops that are losing their popularity because of lack of attention. According to him, Arunachal Pradesh has abundant food crops-- both cultivated and uncultivated ones--and developing modern marketing and technological facilities would greatly enhance the economic condition of farmers.

Chairman Arunachal Agricultural Marketing Board Pasang Dorjee Sona stressed on technology based food processing with value addition to local products to facilitate improvement of economic life of the farming community.  He suggested that programmes and policies of NERAMAC should be farmer friendly. He also appealed the organizers to involve more elected representatives in such programmes for maximum impact.

Earlier, Managing Director, NERAMAC S. Bhattacharjee urged the participants to take forward the advantage that Arunachal Pradesh enjoys because of geographical and climatic conditions by making all out efforts in this direction.

PCCF and Principal Secretary, Government of Arunachal Pradesh B.S. Sajwan  called upon all sections of society for charting a roadmap for food processing industry to boost its economy. He said that along with expansion of area of cultivation, mission activity, emphasis should be given on enhancing value addition.

Over 150 participants, members of NGOs and farmers participated in the workshop. Resource persons from various institutes and related organizations also attended the event. (DIPR)

 

BJP accuse state govt of neglect

ITANAGAR, June 22: BJP has accused the state government of neglect of Tirap District. It said that “citizens have been victimized due to step-motherly attitude and treatments of the state government and the elected representatives from the district.

The state government has long lists to tell before the local Medias and in the official records, but it has not reached the people, it said.

Wangman Lowangcha, National Council Member, Bharatiya Janata Party asked whether the welfare state government and elected representatives from the district realize their responsibility towards the people of the district or it’s a planned isolation and neglect on the district as the state government has in all front failed to monitor the various scheme.

The decade’s long isolated road condition of Joypur (Assam) - Khonsa (Arunachal) link road via Deomali in the district has much to tell the works and sensitivity of our welfare state government, he said.

He further said that the local MLAs of the district should unitedly pursue with the state government to effectively take up with the state govt. of Assam which will enable all weather road communication.

The elected representatives of the district should go back to their constituencies and attend to the problem of the people, it said while urging the Chief Minister to personally intervene and look into the grievances of the people of the district.

The Party further said that government should not ignore the bandh called by the All Tirap District Students Union (ATSU) instead should attend to  their demands at the earliest.

 

Centre to consider release of Rs 185.43 crore for up-gradation of Naharlagun general hospital

ITANAGAR, June 22: The Expenditure Finance Committee of the central Govt will consider funds for strengthening and up-gradation of Naharlagun General Hospital in Arunachal Pradesh. This was informed by Union health and family welfare secretary K Chandra Mouli to state health and family welfare Minister Atum Welly who called on the former at New Delhi today.

Responding to the memorandum submitted by Welly,  Mouli informed that Govt of India is holding meeting of expenditure finance committee on July 5 to consider Rs  185.43 crore funds for strengthening and up-gradation of Naharlagun GH which will also pave the way for establishment of  medical college on PPP mode at Naharalgun, Welly was accompanied by Parliamentary secretary, Cooperation, Nido Pavitra during his meeting.

Earlier, Welly in his memorandum submitted to the union health secretary, appealed to the Central Govt for immediate release of remaining fund at the tune of Rs 32.91 crore for up-gradation of Daporijo district hospital, Rs 29.91 crore for district hospital, Seppa and Rs 40 crore  for  General Hospital, Pasighat.

The memorandum further pleaded the Central Govt for Rs 200 crore fund for  conversion of 148-bedded Naharlagun general hospital,  the only referral hospital of the state,  into  300 bedded  hospital and also expedite the revised estimate of Rs 33.98 crore and Rs 3 crore for up-gradation of community health centre at Koloriang and Tali respectively.

During his hour-long meeting with the Union health secretary, Welly highlighted the present status of state health sector including setting up of tele-ophthalmology centre at General Hospital, Naharlagun and requested the Centre for maximum financial and technical support in health sector of the state.  Welly, however, expressed his gratitude to the Central Govt for according priority on development of Arunachal Pradesh, according to a release issued by DRC, New Delhi.

 

AAPSU appeals for increase in stipends

ITANAGAR, June 22: All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union AAPSU requested new Finance Minister Kalikho Pul to increase stipend amount of students.

“Salaries of govt employees have increased but student stipend is yet to be increased. We appeal finance minister to consider our plea and increase stipend money by at least rupees 500 from coming academic season,” Tatung stated.

Meanwhile, it urged the Education Department to carry out transfer of teachers or principals when school classes are yet to start fully. Carrying out of teacher transfer during middle of school session create lot of problems, it said while adding that there should be equal distribution of teachers in all schools of Arunachal Pradesh. Govt should specially make sure that schools in far flung interior areas get adequate teachers, it added.

It further said that as per central rule framed under education bill, the head of education department in state level are to be selected from IAS Cadre. The Union called on the state government to take note of the rule.

 

AAPWS apprise govt on women

related issues

ITANAGAR, June 22: A delegation of Arunachal Pradesh Women”s Welfare Society met the Chief Minister Jarbom Gamlin this afternoon and apprised him of various issues relating to women in the state.

The delegation which was led by President Gumri Ringu appealed the Chief Minister to properly implement gender budget and program and policies for women and children. It further appealed for proper funding of agencies looking after the welfare of women.

The Association further appealed that the next batch of Arunachal Pradesh State Women’s Commission be drawn from those women who have background in Activism.

The delegation said that motive of establishing the Commission should be served in letter and spirit while adding that women with wide experiences in dealing with problems of women and girls should be inducted in the new Commission.  

The delegation further sought the Chief Minister’s assistance in construction of a multipurpose training centre cum office for women and children in Itanagar.

 

RGU undergrad results declared

Itanagar, June 22: The Annual Examination 2011 Results of BA, B.Sc, and B.Com (Honours & Pass) Ist, IInd & IIIrd Year of all affiliated Colleges of Rajiv Gandhi University  has been declared. The result is available on the  University website: www.rgu.ac.in. , University Notice Board and in Deptt. of Mass Communication, University Extension Centre, Naharlagun.

 Neelam Rupa of Don Bosco College was the topper among the BA (Hons) students while  Monika Sharma of Indira Gandhi Govt College topped the B.Com (hon)

 

 

CEO takes stock of poll preparedness

at Jang

ITANAGAR, June 22: Chief Electoral Officer, Yeshi Tsering in a coordination meeting held at ADC Jang’s conference Hall with DEO Tawang, RO (3 Mukto Assembly constituency), AROs, various sub-committee members and Election Observer (Expenditure) Nand Kishore Gupta took stock of the poll preparedness for the ensuing bye-election at 3 Mukto Assembly constituency.

Speaking on the occasion, he asked all concerned to discharge their duties sincerely. He emphasized on strict adherence to the Modal code of conduct and various other instructions of the commission. He also asked them to be more alert so to leave no room for complain from any quarter.

While touching every aspect of election procedures, he asked RO and AROs to physically verify the polling stations to avoid any last minute lapses and instructed polling parties not to change the polling stations. He also stressed on videography of the polling on poll day in each and every polling stations.

Election Observer (Expenditure) Nand Kishore Gupta while reading out the various instructions of ECI on election expenditures expressed his satisfaction over the election preparedness of the DEO and RO. He emphasized on revisiting the different process of election to ensure that it is conducted as per the guidelines of ECI.

Earlier, RO 3 Mukto Assembly constituency Duly Kamduk said that elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure free and fair bye election. All the polling stations and electoral roll had been verified. The vulnerability mapping, communication and movement plans have been completed. Various sub-committees had been formed to assist RO and Election Observer for smooth conduct of bye election, he added.

i/c DEO Tawang Lobsang Phunchu, ADC, SP Tawang SN Mosobi and EAC (Election) Dr DK Chutia also informed about poll preparedness on the occasion. (DIPRO)

 

AAPWU demands labour

court in Arunachal

ITANAGAR, June 22: All Arunachal Pradesh Workers’ Union (AAPWU) has appealed to the state Govt for establishment of labour court in the state and separate labour colony in Capital Complex.

While submitting a 15-point charter of demand to the Chief Minister Jarbom Gamlin in his office here yesterday, a delegation of AAPWU led by its president Jelly Sonam further appealed to the chief minister for timely release of salaries for casual/contingency workers and release of ad-hoc bonus for the year 2009-2011.

Demanding reservation of 75 per cent Group C and D category posts for contingency/casual workers in Govt job and 80 per cent reservation of job in PSUs like NEEPCO, NHPC etc under Group C and D category,  it pleaded for proper implementation of MACP schemes in favour of work charge employees.

Other demands of the union includes regularization of ALCs,  job confirmation of work charge employees in engineering departments, three months maternity leave for contingency/casual women workers, appointment on compassionate ground, recruitment of technical staff, construction of office building for Arunachal Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (APB&OCWWB), special leaver for officer bearers of the union and free computer education to the school going children of workers.

 

ALSU resents Govt’s Apathy

ITANAGAR, June 22: Venting out its strong resentment over Govt’s apathy shown to the Wancho people of Tirap District in redressing their various grievances like artificial shortage of PDS items, especially rice, irregularity in distribution of wages to job card holders under NREGS, the All Longsom Students’ Union (ALSU) sought the intervention of the Chief Ministers and other concern authorities to get the grievances redressed within two weeks.

Describing the methods by which the common people are being cheated in distribution of rice under AAY, it alleged that although it is maintained in the ration cards that beneficiaries are given their full quota of rice the beneficiaries are always given 5-10 kg less rice than what it was mentioned in their ration cards. On the other hand, BPL card holders get a meagre 10-15 kg rice and APL gets only 10-25 kg a month. It also alleged delay in distribution of PDS items even after their arrival and black market of such items by the distributors.

Alleging misappropriation of fund under NREGS by the authority, ALSU cited example of providing wages of 17 and 14 days only to job card holders of a nearby village in the year 2009-10 and 2010-11 respectively against their guaranteed 100 day.  

As per NREGS guidelines, every job card holder must be given 100 days job guarantee in a year.

It also demanded improvement of monetary transaction at SBI, Longding branch. Presently, the Bank releases a limited amount of not more than Rs.1000 to each customer, the students union informed while describing the hardship faced by the people due to this problem.

The students union meanwhile alleged that the Water Resource Department at Longding was virtually lying defunct due to absence of departmental engineers and other staff throughout the year.

“No staff could be seen throughout the year accepting a casual staff,” the union said. Wanchos mostly depend on paddy cultivation which needs irrigation and other allied projects but farmers are not getting any help from the department, the union said and urged the WRD Minister to take the needful to make the department useful to the farmers.

It also expressed strong resentment over inordinate delay in completion of the Longding-Bimalpur road which was supposed to be complete in 2010, influx of illegal migrants in the district.

 

Manipur felicitate Anshu

Itanagar, June 22: Everester Anshu Jamsenpa was felicitated  by Manipur Mountaineering and Trekking Association (MMTA).

During the felicitation function Minister Manipur Youth and Sport Affairs Minister DD Thaisii , MLA Landhoni Devi and AK Mirabai, Chairperson MSWDC showered praises and appreciation on Anshu who is 1st mother in the world to summit Mt.

Everest twice within 10 days. She scaled the world’s highest peak on 12th and May 21st this year.

MMTA President Dr Leishangthem Surjit recalled that Anshu completed her Adventure course from MMTA Manipur  with grade ‘A’ certification followed by Basic course in NIM Uttarkashi. Anshu was one of the successful summiteers of North East Pre Everest Expedition to

Nepal peak under MMTA, Manipur in 2010.    MMTA also felicitated Dr.

KR Meitei who was the Leader of Team Arunachal.

Anshu accompanied by Tsering Wange President of Arunachal Mountaineering & Adventure Sports Association and Dr K R Meetie called on the Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh at his official residence.

The Chief Minister was especially happy that Anshu brought name and fame not only to her home State and the N E region but also to the whole of India by her record mountaineering feat. As a token of appreciation he presented her a traditional Manipuri dress while his wife Landhoni Devi MLA gifted another set to Wange.

Anshu also visited Sainik School Imphal (SSI) where Head Master Wing Commander Srinivas, Registrar Maj Anand Thoudam and scorers of students gave a rousing welcome. She interacted with the teaching staff and the students.

 

Resentment against conspiracy

ITANAGAR, June 22: Kino Welfare Society (KWS) has resented the demand for resignation of Minister Atum Welly by some organizations alleging criminal conspiracy against  Sango Lomte Foundation (SLF) chairman Payi Gyadi.

The society in a release stated that it is unfair on their part to demand the minister’s resignation at this moment. Let the investigation take its own course, it said and urged all those to refrain from making such press statement against the minister.

Meanwhile, the organization condemned the cowardice act of planting pistol and exclusive materials in the car of RTI activist Payi Gyadi.

It demanded the authorities to arrest the mastermind behind the conspiracy immediately.

In the wake of Payi Gyadi frame up case, former general secretary of Arunachal Law Students Union (ALSU) Kipa Kanam has appealed to the police department and administration to re-investigate into his car burning case.  Kanam’s car was burnt down by miscreant on Nov 9 last year.

The former ALSU GS claimed that his car burning incident was co-related to Gyadi’s case as his car was burnt down after he raised illegal appointment in the same department.

While condemning the alleged conspiracy hatched against Gyadi, Kanam demanded handing over of the case to CBI for proper investigation.

 

A Tribute to a Missionary Lady

Nani Bath

Atta Unya- an unlettered lady, who impressed Ritu Beri, world famous designer, with her sense of traditional designs, died an untimely death in a tragic road accident recently. She was 65. It was in the late eighties that Ritu personally contacted late Unya and ordered traditional costumes to be exhibited abroad.

She agreed to Ritu’s ‘business proposal’ and got herself paid in advance. Perhaps her entrepreneurial instinct dictated her to have asked for payment in advance. She was self-made entrepreneur. As an entrepreneur, her first business venture, in the early seventies, was ‘Bicycle on Rent’! Many may not believe such business idea, which is prevalent in western countries only now. The hire charge was Rs. 3 per day. Abotani Bazar at Old Ziro, one among the first organised markets in the state, was initially under her control- again in the early seventies. She had a hotel and a poultry farm. And she was an authorised whole-sale agent of Malpani of Lakmimpur district, Assam.

Late Unya believed in empowerment of tribal women through co-operative movement. She was the one who initiated cottage industries in the undivided Subansiri district. She was heading Hage Knitting and Weaving Centre, Itanagar and Lower Subansiri Handloom Co-operative Society till her death. She was a Chairperson of Kardona Welfare Society that works for social reforms with economic empowerment of women. She was a consultant master-trainer of the Department of Industries, Government of Arunachal Pradesh. She was one among the firsts to enter into outsourcing business by coaxing unemployed girls/ladies to knit Gale and Galuk at home. Raw materials were provided and later the produced items were sold at one of her outlets.

Society now remembers her contributions more than ever. Being a founder member of Apatani Socio-cultural Welfare Society, she was instrumental in giving the Society a definite shape. The President (ASCWS), Tage Habung, fondly remembers her as a “lady with revolutionary zeal”. She was also an active member of Arunachal Pradesh Women Welfare Society at the initial stage of its formation. She used to talk nostalgically about her association with stalwarts of APWWS- Jarjum Ete, Tadar Yadi, Binny Yanga, Gumri Ringu, and many more.

A labourer’s boy, with school bag hanging on his shoulder, visited late Unya’s residence to be present at an informal school at her residential premises, without knowing that she is no more. On being told that their ‘Mother’ is no more, he walked away with a sad expression on his innocent face. But before leaving he enquired: “who will teach us?” He was one of the students of under Rajiv Gandhi national Crush Programme School for Slum Children, managed by Kardona Welfare Society.

Late Unya was equally successful in her family front. She was married to a renowned Apatani priest, late Hage Tama. She herself was a priest and an expert on oral history. Her actual name was Hage Punya but people called her Atta Unya(Sister) out of  love and respect.  She is survived by five sons, all employed. Three sons are engineers in various departments of government of Arunachal Pradesh.

Such ladies deserve recognition, even after their physical departure. Let us all hope that the government or civil society groups do something for the lady- who contributed so much for the state and society without any personal projection.

 

NEC’s Innovative Teaching Practices

NAHARLAGUN, June 22: North eastern council has taken up a pilot project to primarily help and assist the students of North Eastern Region in preparing for the various competitive entrance exams especially for engineering courses. As a pilot project, the proposed Innovative Teaching Practices will be imparted free of cost for two months to 100 students from Meghalaya. The programme was inaugurated by U.K Sangma, Secretary, NEC on June 21. It is an online course to be imparted through AASANKA from Mumbai and depending on the successfulness of this pilot project the course will be replicated and made available to the students of other North Eastern States. The Secretary, NEC, is hopeful that this project will help the youngsters in their endeavour in successfully clearing exams and getting into top colleges.

The Secretary, NEC also announced that a laptop with internet connection will be given to the 3 top ranked students from among the participants.

The programme in its present form will also be extended to 100 more students of class 11 to help them to seamlessly pursue their studies. (DIPR)

 

Health awareness camp

ZIRO, June 22: All Diibo Students’ Union (ADSU) in collaboration with District Health Association has organized a health awareness camp at Govt. TPD ME School on June 18 last. More than 100 patients of the villages were benefited from this awareness camp with free distribution of medicines.

Presiding over the inaugural function, Diibo ZPM Bamin Siri said that organization of such awareness camp in regular interval will help people become more health conscious. Making mention of an adage ‘prevention is better that cure’ he also believe that inculcating people with health tips will benefit them much than treatment. He urged people to follow the health tips of the experts.

Health awareness programme was arranged by the health department following constant persuasion and request of the ADSU, said Lower Subansiri district family welfare officer (DFWO) Dr. K. Basar. Dr. G. Teli, SMO while briefing on the topic ‘ant-natal’ has observed that many girls are going against the norms by becoming pregnant before attaining age of 18 years. However, he suggested them not to hesitate visiting a health centre for anti-natal check up. A pregnant woman should visit at least three times for anti natal check up.

Later, he suggested students to give more importance on their study than early marriage.

Attending the programme as resource person, Dr. Hage Nobin, MO Raga delivered an elaborate talk on ‘water borne diseases’. Since most of the diseases are of water borne, keeping one’s surrounding neat and clean and using boiled water are the best ways to prevent them, he summed up.

Tasso Hassang, CHO Malaria, Hage Ommo, councilor HIV/AIDS and Hage Tana, HI delivered on their respective topic ‘malaria and its prevention’, ‘cause of HIV/AIDS’ and ‘importance of immunization’ while Dusu Tacho, DAM briefed on JSY and VHSC.

Yachang Tacho, the editor of ‘The Subansiri’ weekly, ADSU’s President Michi Tara and Health & Sanitation Secy. Tanyang Robo also spoke on the occasion.

Copyright © 2008, The Arunachal Times Publications Pvt. Ltd., Siang House, Sector - E, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh - 791111, India

All rights reserved.

 

Let there be a logical conclusion

Dear Editor,

The press statement given by Ojing Tasing (ex General Secretary AAPSU) on June 20 in the fraudulent fund embezzlement case of Ruksin block BDO obtain through RTI is self indicting and self explanatory. It amply reflects the dubious role he tried to play as a self appointed negotiator on behalf of the culprits who have misused public fund.  

It’s amazing to note that proclaimed social activist like him as fondly address by the media houses of the state is so interested in the case that he has taken the whole matter personally. It is an utter lie and desperate attempt to come clean on his part on the whole issue by giving out contradictory press note after the failed attempt by him as a self appointed negotiator with frivolous excuses like “scolding”.

An FIR has been already lodged with the SIC (VIG) which is looking after the whole case and we are hopeful that justice will prevail.

Regarding his allegation that members of Aane Siang RTI Activist Forum (ASRTIAF) demanded money in lieu of the case, I have no knowledge and hope he will spell out the name in the media & with investigating agency and also come out with his friend’s name who has requested him to become the negotiator with proofs & documentary evidences rather than throwing allegation for the sake of doing it. The whole matter may also be brought under the ambit of investigation by the SIC (VIG).

It is obvious he is hitting an empty bush and cooking up stories to derail the whole process of justice delivery in which we have lodged an FIR against the BDO Ruksin for fund embezzlement.

I have nothing against him but am hurt by his bullying antics and unnecessary interference in a matter of public importance, which we are standing up against all odds. He should have encouraged & supported us unconditionally being a social activist. But the comical part here is that an Activist threatened another activist for unearthing corruption. The incident has made us realize, there are two kind of activists in our state “Activist” and a “stooge Activist”. It is difficult to differentiate but the ASRTIAF is determine that logical conclusion is reached regarding the case even if the consequences will be huge.

Yours,

Ungkung Regon

General Secretary

ASRTIAF (on email)

 

 

Students, parents and entrance mania                   

Dear Editor,

Every year in the month of May or June the department of higher and technical education of Arunachal Pradesh conducts a joint entrance exam for the students interested in technical and medical fields . It is the ideal platform for our students to enroll themselves in the top medical and engineering colleges of our country. Thousands of students appear every year and approximately about 400 (JEE- DEGREE)  pass the test, leaving thousands of rest disappointed and double the number of parents frustrated. The unsuccessful students undergo an era of mental depression and so do their parents. The reason for concern is that we have made these  exams a mania. Why so much desperation for these entrance seats? Why do 90% of parents expect their wards to pursue a medical or engineering line? Maybe the noble aim of conducting  JEE has turned into a fatal means for depressing students.  We say we live in a 21st century modern Arunachal, but our views on career  contradict such statements. Still today the Arunachali parents prefer the science stream for their wards, in many cases ignoring the child’s real interest.  Sometimes I feel the only job Arunachali parents know for their children are doctors or engineers . I wish if every parents dream could be fulfilled we would have a doctor or engineering in every house next door in Arunachal. Probably we never understand the fact that  students are successful in only those streams which they have their interest in, not in what we are forced into. Today entrance exams are like an annual fair of the state. Thousands of students gather in the capital city after the CBSE exams for the entrance mela. The coaching institutions acts as costly guides who  tips us the secrets of success. If succeeded its good, if not you are bashed. The students tend to get depressed during the exams, bearing the load of hopes gifted by the parents and relatives. As a result many deserving candidates fail to qualify breaking down in the pressure cooker situation.    Entrance exams are so designed that they filter out the most abrupt, intelligent and innovative brains for the respective technical fields from the lot of students. Every year probably more than 90% deserving candidates get through. But what about the rest who failed to make up ? Are they dumb ? After the exam probably most of the parents think so, but that isn’t the fact. Entrance exams are not the easiest of exams to crack . Hundreds of factors need to favour you to crack a good seat, hardwork, calmness , abruptness and also a bit of luck factor, it’s a sheer fact that all of us cannot have these qualities or else there would have an Abdul Kalam in every bunch of  Arunachali teens!!!   Today the young minds are interested in a new genera of careers, like arts, music, journalism, tourism, hotel management, fashion designing ,photography etc. what all the parents need is to bravely guide them to the career option they want to adopt, breaking the mania of entrance exams. I don’t mean to say that engineering and medical are dull career options, they are in fact among the best , but what I feel is they are not the only ones, there is a bigger world beyond it.  Kudos to all the students who cracked the JEE-2011, but all the rest who failed, there’s nothing to be depressed , it’s not the end of the world.  It is also seen that many branches of engineering seats allotted have minute future scope in the state, probably these seats need to be left out as they deviate the career of many students from the right path. Besides these many deserving candidates from interior districts are still left out, due to poverty, ignorance, and transportations barriers. The eastern districts like Lohit, Tirap  ,Changlang and Anjaw have minimum or zero successful candidates mostly because of  the insurgency issue and lack of proper guidance.   If we want a Arunachal , which is interdependent and advanced in every sector of society , than we ought to finish this existing entrance craze. We youth need to realise that doctors and engineers alone don’t build a nation or state. Bureaucrats, teachers, politicians, artists, writers , journalists, bankers , businessmen and lot of other people do contribute. Parents need to support us in our bold decisions and provide us a liberal space in the selection of our career so that we could contribute our best to the society and also make our life better.            

Yours,

Nguli Dabi

Pasighat (On email)

 

 

Nature’s call and the lack of toilets

Dear Editor,

Through your esteemed paper, I would like to share the story about the lack of toilet facility at our transport station, because I with all my best of mind dream that the capital, at least the capital of our state deserves one unanimously.

On my last visit to the glorious station here at Itanagar ,to seek for a ticket ,unfortunately I got my share of  nature's untimely call. To my dismay I did not find a toilet to relieve myself.

When I asked the mechanics at spot , they told me ,'bhai hum log toh ghar me hi kerta hai '. yaha toilet nehi hai! Left with no options I splashed at the wailing wall of the office with my eyes closed!

The simple question here  is ,does the transport department and other concerned departments does not have enough fund even to construct a simple toilet, if not for the common passengers  at least for the poor guys working at such stations who have to search for a secluded corner every time ,everyday. I have seen the government boast about infrastructure, developments.  Look at our stations for god’s sake and any human can tell, what is the reality. At the last all I can say with reverence is ,the high authorities and bosses of the departments must have the inkling to pee sometimes. Hope they dont have to close their eyes at some corner .

Yours,

Mutkit

Itanagar  (on email)

 

 

 

 

********************************

 

All email and surface mails must be accompanied with contact numbers and full postal address. Do keep writing but please make sure that letters are short and to the point.        

----Editor