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March 05

Shifting of Layang Polytechnic College to its permanent site demanded

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: Polytechnic College Development Committee, Layang cum- land donor has urged the Director of Higher and Technical Education, GoAP to shift the Polytechnic College, Layang to its permanent location as the academic block building for the institute has been completed in January 25, 2014.

Meanwhile, social worker Risso Kame has urged the Kurung Kumey Deputy Commissioner for early sanctioning of fund under DPC or TFC/untied fund for construction of wire rope suspension bridge over Panio River via Sangram to Pungrung shortcut road.

In its memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner, Kame informed that the bridge was lying in a dilapidated condition due to years of wear and tear which needs immediate repair.

Earlier, the Sangram SDO had recommended the demand with a request to the DC for sanctioning fund for construction of the same bridge.

 

RGU mourns death of noted economist

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: Noted economist and academician Prof. G.K. Chadha died on Saturday last at the age of 73 after a heart attack.  He is survived by his wife, son and daughter.

Born in 1940, Chadha was the former vice chancellor and professor emeritus of the Jawaharlal Nehru University.  He was also President of the SAARC-established South Asian University in New Delhi.

Chadha had served as member of the Economic Advisory Council to the prime minister and chaired the UGC Pay Review Committee (Sixth Pay Commission) for university and college teachers.  

He was a member of the advisory Council of the Centre for Development Studies, Department of Economics, Rajiv Gandhi University and was associated with the Economics Department of this university.

Meanwhile, the teachers/faculties of RGU have expressed their grief over the sudden demise of iconic economist Professor G.K.Chadha. In a meeting held at the Department of Economics, RGU, today, the   members deeply mourned the death of Prof Chadha and prayed  for his heavenly peace.

 

Dharna staged demanding disqualification of defected MLAs

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: The Bharatiya Janata Party, Arunachal Pradesh and PPA staged protest Dharna demanding immediate disqualification of the defected MLAs for illegally merging with Congress Party violating anti-defection law.

Describing that defection of MLAs was the mother of all corruptions, the dharna drew the attention of the Speaker of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly to apply his administrative acumen to disqualify the defected MLAs, BJP said in a release.

 

Another minor girl raped in Koloriang

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: In a yet another dastardly act, a minor girl was raped at Koloriang on February 22 last.

Confirming the report, OC PS Koloriang SI K L Pertin informed that the accused Bengia Apo (19) was arrested on February 24 last and has been sent to 14 days judicial custody.

As told by the police, the 13 year old victim was on her way to home on February 22 last at about 2 pm when the accused, a student of Govt. Hr Sec School Koloriang forcibly took her to his room at the boy's hostel and sexually assaulted her.

Medical examination of the victim has confirmed rape however forensic report is still awaited, informed the OC.

Reportedly, the accused had hit the victim and threatened her of dire consequences before sexually assaulting her for three hours.

Meanwhile, the family members of the victim in its letter to the Arunachal Pradesh State Women Commission sought constitution of a committee to enquire into the matter.

It also sought APSCW's intervention in changing the IO of the case to a lady police officer.

 

Family members of late Rangno Londa allege foul play

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: Suspecting foul play in the custodial death of Late Rangno Londa, the family members of late Londa has sought constitution of a high power committee and the matter to be enquired by the District & Session Judge. In its letter to the East Kameng DC, it also sought stringent action against erring officers that led to the custodial death. Further seeking compensation for the bereaved family members, it also requested for safety measures of other inmates in order to thwart other similar happenings. Meanwhile when contacted SP Seppa A. Tamut said that post mortem report is yet to come and he cannot comment at this stage. It said that magisterial enquiry was also conducted however the aggrieved family members are dissatisfied with the report.

 

District level WIFS training held

DAPORIJO Mar 04: A District Level Weekly Iron Folic Acid Supplementation (WIFS) Training for Mos, BRCs, ICDS Supervisors, Nodal Teachers and School Health Program Teams were held at District Hospital, Daporijo yesterday.

A total of 39 trainees participated the training. Dr. T Natung, State Coordinator ARSH and Y. Gong ARSH Consultant were the resource persons. DRCHO Dr. G Hangkar highlighted on WIFS. DIPRO

 

AACWA appeals Govt to raise its demands in Assembly

ITANAGAR,  Mar 04: The All Arunachal Contractor's Welfare Association (AACWA) has appealed the GoAP to discuss the grievances and demands of the  local contractors in the current session of the  Assembly and  take a concrete decision for the welfare of the contactors.

Claiming that the  state Govt had assured to pay heed to its long pending demands for intrest of local tribal contractors like enlsitment of contractors in electrical wing, halt on deducation of income tax from trial contractors, 1% earnest money deposit (EMD) for tribal contractors during tender and quotation, works up to Rs.50 lacs without tenders and split of packages system of multi crores works,  the  Association  said that  the Govt should consider  the  greivances of the contractors as the 80 per cent of the state total pupolation  is directly or indirectly involved in the profession as contrators.

Meanwhile, citing the  numerous problems of SSA teachers  due to non-release of salaries,  the Association  urged the state Govt   to release the salaries immediately. It further said that  the  Govt should take special attention to the sectors like education, health and road communication.

 

Petroleum depots run out of fuel

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: The Capital Complex Petroleum Depot Association (CCPDA) in a release informed that due to oil tankers strike since 28th February, all petrol pumps have exhausted their stocks. Further they added that without any replenishment of stocks all petrol pumps will be closed until the oil tankers call-off their strike.

 

Tribute paid to former Speaker & MP

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: The members of Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly today paid rich tribute to prominent political figures Padi Yubbe and Chow Chandret Gohain (Namchoom). Late Yubbe, who represented Ziro valley in the state legislative assembly passed away on 17th January in a private hospital at Guwahati. Former MP Gohain who represented NEFA, died at his home town Chowkham on February 16.

 Speaker Wanglin Lowangdong, who made first obituary reference, termed both the departed leaders as great visionary of Arunachal. Remembering their contribution Chief Minister Nabam Tuki stated that late Gohain and Late Yubbe played pivotal role in shaping modern Arunachal. Tributes were also paid by PPA MLA Laeta Umbrey, Parliamentary Secretaries CT Mein and Nabam Rebia, MLA Chowna Mein, Principal Advisor to CM Norbu Thongdok. Two minutes silence was observed as mark of respect to the departed souls.

 

AUEA resents cancellation of selection process

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: Arunachal Unemployed Engineers' Association (AUEA) expressed resentment over the reported cancellation of the  "process for selection of site engineers for PMU, Arunachal Pradesh due to unavoidable circumstances."

Citing the advertisement published in a section of local daily on February 25 inviting applications for walk-in interview for appointment as site engineers, the AUEA said that  the candidates were deprived of their  rights to appear in the interview as the selection process was cancelled without prior information. The authorities also did not mention the number of vacancies, not even issued a corrigendum in this connection, the  association  said.

 

All registered trade unions to be affiliated with INTUC

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: All the registered trade unions of the state would be affiliated with Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) for smooth functioning of its activities in the state. This was decided in a meeting held with Chief Minister Nabam Tuki at his official bungalow on March 2 last.

It was further decided that all kinds of grievances covering organized and unorganized sector of working communities in the form of application or memorandum from the trade unions to the government for its redressal shall be addressed through INTUC state unit.

 

E-PDS launched at Bomdila

BOMDILA, Mar 04: The e-PDS was formally launched at district headquarters Bomdila in a simple function by Parliamentary Secretary for HPD RT Khunjuju in presence of Deputy Commissioner AK Singh, Superintendent of Police and Zilla Parishad Chairperson.

New AAY ration cards printed under e-PDS was handed over to 12 beneficiaries by Kuhunjuju, Singh, SP and the ZPC.

Later, 40 more cards were issued to the beneficiaries. Coupons for the PDS commodities having a validity of one year were also issued with the AAY cards. DIPRO

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News Impact

Budget session of State Assembly begins

NAHARLAGUN, Mar 04: The three-day budget session of the Arunachal Pradesh State Assembly began here today with the ceremonial Governor's address.

In his address, the Governor stated that the state government has made a considerable progress and laid the foundation for a robust infrastructural facility in the state. Highlighting the developmental scenario in the state under various sectors besides state government initiatives, the Governor said that the government has chartered some of the hitherto unexplored areas of governance. He informed that during the 11th Five Year Plan Period (2007-12), the state has clocked an average growth rate of 9.4 %, well above the national rate of 8%, while during the first year of the Twelfth Five Year Plan i.e 2012-13, the growth rate was 5.91% vis-à-vis the national rate of 4.96%.

Dwelling upon the achievements of the government and outlining the future vision and action plan of the government, the Governor said that in the infrastructure sector, various projects of importance are in progress under the Prime Minister's Special Economic package of about Rs 33,000 Crore.  These included - 2319 Km road project including the two lane Trans Arunachal Highway, District Connectivity and the four lane National Highway.

The state will have its first railway station at Naharlagun and trains are likely to be operational by March 2014, while the broad gauging of the Rangiya- Murkongselek stretch has progressed to 84% and will be ready by December 2014, he informed. The air connectivity will get a major fillip with work already started in ALGs at Ziro, Pasighat, Aalo, Mechukha and Tezu. The Vijaynagar Airfield is already operational and a Greenfield airport at Tawang is under active consideration by the Govt of India, he said, adding the telecom connectivity will also get a major boost with the Govt of India actively working on laying the OFC cables and installing microwave transponders in remote villages to provide mobile and internet connectivity. Under the PMGSY, 654 road projects of 3738.82 kms already completed, connecting 626 habitations by 2012-13 and in 2013-14, 185.58 kms connecting 10 habitations have been completed. The State of the Art Civil Secretariat is 80% complete and will be ready during the year which would bring the seat of governance under a single roof for speedy decision-making and the Itanagar Water Supply Project will be commissioned shortly to meet the safe drinking water requirement of the state capital, the Governor said.

Highlighting on the state government initiatives, he said that construction of District Secretariats (Mini Secretariats) in all the districts to facilitate timely and quick service delivery to the citizens have been undertaken and work has already started in 8 locations in the first phase. Government has accorded top priority to sports and state of the Art indoor and outdoor stadia are being constructed in five districts, besides MLA Apartments Convention centre, State Legislative Assembly Complex, G+5 accommodation for senior government officers and up gradation of the Arunachal State Hospital are also under varying stages of completion.

Speaking on the social sector, the Governor said that government has given utmost importance to health and education, adding special emphasis has been given to human capital in the form of teachers and doctors.

Informing that about 4 Lakh students enrolled in the primary to higher Secondary School and 0.32 Lakh students in the Higher and Technical education, the overall literacy rate of 73% has inched closer to the national average of 74%, while in the Higher and Technical Education, in addition to the 12 colleges, one new college has been established at Geku, 5 out of 14 sanctioned Polytechnics will start from this year at Pasighat, Dirang, Laying, Roing and Namsai, establishment of 6 model degree Colleges and another 3 are under consideration. 110 new Assistant Professors have been recruited and posted in the colleges and the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology at Pasighat has been inaugurated recently, he added.

Under the health sector, a major path breaking policy initiative in the form of the Chief Minister's Universal Health Insurance Scheme has been launched on 20th February last and will be operational by the beginning of the next fiscal year benefitting 2.60 lakh families including state government employees. With this, the health of all the citizens will be insured up to Rs 2 (Two) lakhs, the Governor stated.

Mentioning that to provide basic amenities for decent living to the rural people, 15000 houses were constructed under the Indira Awas Yojana (IAY)during 2011-12 and 2012-13, while under MG-NREGA, 1 crore man-days were generated during the last two years, he said that under JNNURM in the urban areas, 11 projects have been completed and commissioned and remaining 7 projects will be completed within March this year which includes ISBT, Skywalk, Housing Complex etc. Municipal Solid Waste Management project for Capital Complex, Itanagar with a project cost of Rs 1194.38 Lakhs has been completed, under Rajiv Awas Yojna, a Rental Housing at Itanagar with 576 Dwelling Units is under construction and under Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY), 158 beneficiaries trained, 8 Women Groups benefited and 1946 man days of employment generated during the year, he informed.

Women and Child development is another priority area and the government has brought more than 2.5 lakh beneficiaries under the ICDS with 6028 Anganwadi Centers by promoting all round development of mother & children through supplementary nutrition, immunization, health check up, preschool education etc. For all round development of adolescent girls, SABLA scheme was launched; Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has been recently notified. The Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS) was launched for providing justice to Juveniles / welfare of street children. State Adoption Agencies & Shishu Greha established to promote In-Country Adoption. Child Care Institution and Juvenile Justice Board established in all districts. Juvenile Home has been established in Pasighat and Prohibition of Child Marriage Rules has been notified, the Governor said while giving detailed achievements under the sector.  

Multi Sectoral Development Program coverage has been increased to 26 blocks of 10 districts with 6728 projects undertaken till 2011-12 and during 2012-13, 1119 projects will be undertaken in Housing, Education & Health Sectors, besides supports to the Senior Citizens, Widows and differently abled citizens under various schemes, he said and informed that Arunachal Pradesh is one of the first states in the country to adopt the National Food Security Act and to ensure that the food reaches the beneficiary, government will put in place an end-to-end computerization of TPDS in 17 locations of 9 districts.

Giving an account of the economic sector, the Governor informed that under agriculture, total crop production achieved during 2012-13 stands at 6.90 lakh MT as against 6.32 lakh MT during 2011-12 with an annual growth rate of 9.2%. During 2013-14, the total crop production is expected to reach 7.20 Lakh MT. The state has received the "Krishi Karman Commendation Award' from the President of India for higher food crop production for two years during 2010-11 and 2012-13. The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) was launched in 2012-13 covering an area of 4600 ha resulting in rice production of 263000 MT, with increase of 8000 MT over the previous year. Government according top priority to horticulture and the state has emerged as the largest producer of Kiwi in the country. To boost the sector 58,639 beneficiaries, covering 21,264 Ha area under various crops have been assisted for horticulture related activities which includes 17,830 women beneficiaries, besides a separate Horticulture Marketing Board to assist the farmers in marketing of their produces has been created. Under Animal Husbandry & Veterinary, the milk processing plant in Karsingsa has been revived and made functional with an average of 1700 packets of milk processed for marketing daily.

Stating that government has laid special emphasis on cultivation of Tea and Rubber and a Mission Mode Project (MMP) was launched, the Governor said that to promote Tea cultivation, a pilot project - 'Share a Cup of Tea' was implemented successfully in East Siang district and to educate and impart training to small tea growers, the innovative 'Chai Pathshala' have been started. Besides, the central government has been pursued for opening the Still-well Road and the Donsengmang Road to facilitate trade with Bhutan and the South East Asian Nations through Myanmar. He said that with a fleet of 229 buses, the public transport system, which is the nerve of the state, is being made operational on 113 routes, connecting almost all district headquarters by day/night service and has generated revenue of 15.40 Crore during the year 2012-13.

The Governor informed that government has undertaken a lot of vertical and horizontal interventions in tackling the law and order scenario of the state and the ratio of cases registered to cases solved/charge sheets filed has seen remarkable improvement. During the year, 2680 police personnel including 4 DSPs and special recruitment of 200 women have been done and emphasis has also been given to women related crimes through "All Women Police Station". 15 new police stations have been notified and will be made functional shortly and for effective policing, two range offices have been setup at Namsai and Pasighat, he said while informing that PCR vans for 24x 7 policing have been made operational in the capital complex, besides one Battalion of CRPF has already been sanctioned and will be in place shortly.

To strengthen all the organs of democracy the process of separation of Judiciary from the Executive have been taken up and 3 (three) erstwhile Fast Track Courts in the state have been converted into regular courts of Additional District & Sessions Judge and 3 (three) Additional District & Sessions Judges have been appointed and posted at Pasighat, Bomdila & Basar, besides 5 (Five) Chief Judicial Magistrate-cum-Civil Judge Sr. Division and 5 (Five) Judicial Magistrate - cum - Civil Judge Jr. Division have been appointed.

To tackle the problem of unemployment and underemployment Employment Generation Council and the State Skill Development Council are already in place with an objective to firstly provide skills and identify gainful employment opportunity for the youth of the state. One Lakh Jobs by the end of the 12th Five Year Plan is the target and the government has achieved the targets, he said.

Referring on the Job Mela conducted on 30th August last year, the Governor informed that 14000 candidates were registered and 9012 were selected by as many as 33 participating VTPs, while 2020 youths are undergoing training and 6992 will be trained shortly, besides similar Job Melas have been organized in all district Hqs to take job opportunities to the doorsteps of the youths. Government has also raised the minimum wages from the existing wages by 90 % for unskilled, semi skilled and skilled laborers, he said and informed about the recently launched phase III of NERCORMP with a tentative allocation of Rs 540 Crore, a livelihood and rural development project aimed to transform the intervened lives of the poor and marginalized sections of the society in the three districts of Tirap, Longding and Changlang. The State Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM) to promote livelihood through self help groups under which till date 1700 women SHGs have been formed has been launched for other districts.

Stating that the government has sincerely worked and achieved decentralization of powers to the Panchayats and Municipalities in letter and spirit, the Governor said that the theme of the recently concluded Statehood Day was aptly chosen as "Decentralization and Empowering People". He informed that 14 out of 18 functions has been transferred and the rest are being transferred in a phased manner, while under Panchayat devolution of power on 29 subjects has been effected successfully. Government has constituted the 2nd State Finance Commission under section 243-I of the Constitution of India to review and recommend the financial devolution process to the Panchayats. Infrastructure in the form of office building has been constructed in 10 districts. Under RGPSA, 68 office buildings have been sanctioned for Gram Panchayat Office. To strengthen manpower for effective governance, recruitment for 591 Computer Operators and 177 Technical Assistants has already been completed.

Government has enforced a package of economic measures for maintaining fiscal discipline and controlling wasteful expenditure. After a slew of measures to plug revenue leakages and without imposing new taxes, government has been successful in mobilizing states own resources of Rs 981 Crore during 2012-13 showing an increase of 45% compared to Rs.678 Crore during 2011-12. As a welfare measure for the Government Employees, House Rent Allowance (HRA) @ 10% of basic pay per month for the regular Government Employees who do not have rent free government accommodation has been approved. The wages of contingency employees has been enhanced by Rs.500/- per month and a MoU with State Bank of India has been signed for offering benefits of salary package to regular Government Employees having bank account in State Bank of India, he said.

Touching upon Hydropower and Tourism sectors, the Governor said that the hydropower potential estimated is around 58676.40 MW and 157 projects have been allotted to CPSUs, IPPs and also for development on Joint Venture Mode (PPP Mode) with the state government, with total installed capacity of 46357.20 MW. Out of the total allotted projects 3 projects [Subansiri Lower HEP, Kameng HEP and Pare HEP) with total installed capacity of 2710 MW are under execution. With so much of diversity in natural beauty and tribal heritage, the state can be a most sought after destination of the world, he stated. He said that government has accorded top status to the field of sports to instill a sense of healthy competition and also to promote brotherhood.

In his address, the Governor also highlighted on the various flagship programmes of the state government which are beneficiary oriented. DIPR

 

Seven bills introduced in Assembly

Staff Reporter  

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: Seven bills were today tabled in the floor of state assembly. Chief Minister Nabam Tuki presented The Arunachal Pradesh Lokayukta Bill, 2014.  Education and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Bosiram Siram introduced three bills namely, Arunodaya University Arunachal Pradesh Bill 2014, North East Frontier Technical University (NEFTU) Arunachal Pradesh Bill, 2014 and Arunachal Pradesh Salaries, Allowances and Pension of members of Legislative Assembly (amendment) bill 2014. On the other hand Town Planning Minister Rajesh Tacho tabled The Member of Arunachal Pradesh Urban Local Bodies (Disqualification on ground of defection) Bill, 2014 and Arunachal Pradesh Building (Lease, Rent and Eviction) Control Bill 2014. Agriculture and Horticulture Minister Setong Sena introduced The Arunachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce, Marketing and Processing Board Bill, 2014. Chief Minister Tuki also presented vote on the account for the year 2014-15 (4 months from 1 April 2014 to 31 July 2014).

 

 

Frequent economic blockade echoes in Arunachal Assembly

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: The problems faced by Arunachalee citizen due to constant economic blockade imposed by neighbouring state Assam today echoed in the floor of state Assembly. Members expressed concern over harassment meted out to Arunachalee people because of the economic blockade. The discussion took place after MLA Karya Bagang moved private member resolution appealing for government of Arunachal to take step for establishment of oil stock depot at Bhalukpong inside Arunachal Pradesh which will cater to the needs of East Kameng, West Kameng and Bomdila.

She stated that due to frequent agitation and economic blockade by various groups of Assam, people of Arunachal suffers for want of petrol/diesel. "The government should take up matter with central government under oil ministry to accord sanction of oil stock depot at Bhalukpong like the one in Doimukh, Papum Pare to get relief from the crises when situation arises," read her resolution.

Supporting her move, Parliamentary Secretary for Planning Nabam Rebia alleged that for every petty matter Assam based organizations resorts to economic blockade. He suggested that resolution appealing union government to use force to tackle such blockade should also be added. While participating in the discussion parliamentary secretary for education and law J K Panggeng stated that such depot should be established in various parts of state. He termed economic blockade as one of major problems concerning whole of Arunachal. Minister for food and civil supply Kamlung Mossang while agreeing with concern raised by members assured that government will give top priority to address it at the earliest.

Chief Minister Nabam Tuki while extending support to the resolution suggested that oil depot should be established in various corners of state to tackle emergency situation. Later the resolution moved by MLA Bagang was amended. A new resolution seeking establishment of oil depots at Bhalukpong, Likabali, Pasighat, Roing, Namsai, Deomali, Miao, Tezu and Kanubari was adopted by the house.

The resolution will be sent to government of India.

Earlier Chief Minister Nabam Tuki informed that his government is well aware of problems affecting people of Arunachal due to imposition of economic blockade. He said in order to tackle such situation, his government has requested for opening of border trade with Myanmar and also for construction of road from Lumla to Tashigaon in Bhutan.

 

 

2nd batch training on beekeeping concludes

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: The week-long second batch training programme on Scientific Beekeeping concluded at the Training Centre of Khadi and Village Industries Board (KVIB) here today.  The training for 25 candidates was organized by state KVIB and sponsored by the National Bee Board, Department of Agriculture  and Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India.

Addressing the valedictory function as chief guest, KVIB Vice Chairman Bado Singhi assured all possible help  to the trainees in future and requested them to take adequate benefits under the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), a flagship programme of the Government of India for promoting micro-enterprises. He also gave away certificates to all the 25 trained beekeepers at the  valedictory function.  

Earlier the State KVIB CEO and Member of the National Bee Board Sukamal Deb, narrated how the National Bee Board, who has sponsored this programme,  can help in promoting apiculture in the State.

The trainees also expressed satisfaction over the training and lauded the organizers.

 

 

Govt assistance sought for restoration of school building

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: Managing Chairman of Kradadi English School, Sangram under Kurung Kumey has reiterated his request to the authorities concerned for early sanctioning of fund under FDR for restoration of the sunken residential school building of Kradadi at Sangram.

A spot verification of the sunken building was verified by then Kurung Kumey deputy commissioner as well as Sangram police and the verification report was sent to Director Relief and Rehabilitation and Disaster Management for sanctioning of an estimated amount of Rs.79,88,500 for restoration of the building, the school managing chairman informed.

A memorandum was also submitted to chief Minister in this regard in March last year and the chief minister had directed the Director, Disaster Management to look into the matter.

He also informed that then Kurung Kumey deputy commissioner Rajiv Takuk had shot a reminder to the Director, Disaster Management for early release of the fund in September 2012.

Further, MLA Bamang Felix in a letter had also requested the Director, Disaster Management to consider the plea and sanction fund under FDR head.

The building has allegedly sunk due to land slide and it became unsafe for living.

 

 

Arunachal Assembly condemns Nido Tania's death

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: Cutting across political lines, all members of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly today condemned the death of Nido Tania in New Delhi and unanimously resolved to impress upon the Centre to pass a strong Anti-Racial Act in Parliament.

Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, responding to a private member's resolution brought by Congress member Bamang Felix, gave an account of Tania's killing on January 30 last and subsequent steps taken by the state government.

He informed the House that the death had not only rocked the state but the entire nation, and the country stood behind Arunachal Pradesh.

"The Centre, responding to the plea of the state government, handed over the case to the CBI for investigation besides constituting a committee to look into the issues confronting the people of North East in Delhi," Tuki said.

Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Family Welfare Nido Pavitra, who is the father of Tania, demanded enacting a strong anti-racial law and exemplary punishment to the culprits involved in the killing of his son.

Earlier, while moving the resolution, Felix asked when the entire country unequivocally condemned the incident, why such an Act couldn't be passed by the Parliament.

Nido died after he was allegedly beaten up by some shopkeepers in New Delhi following an altercation sparked by their taunts on his hairstyle. PTI

 

 

LPG shortage hits consumers in East Siang

Correspondent

PASIGHAT, Mar 04: Shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) has once again hit the consumers in East Siang district ahead of this Spring season. Distributors are, however, claiming that frequent bandh calls in Assam resulted in erratic LPG supply.

The LPG users have said that the gas agency, pretending shortage in the supply of refilled LPG cylinders, is not issuing cooking gas in time. The shortage of LPG supply, a never ending problem, is creating innumerable problems for consumers.

"We are not given a cylinder despite booking order about eight days ago. The so called shortage in supply creates an unhealthy competition among the consumers and even we have to stand in queue for several hours to get the booked cylinder", the consumers lamented.

The Manager of 'Sangoo Gas Agency' at Pasighat, when contacted, admitted that they are not getting adequate supply of cylinders from the bottling plants and hence they are facing tremendous hardship in meeting the demand of the consumers. It said this was happening due to irregular movement LPG vehicles due to frequent bandhs and blockades in Assam called by various groups.

LPG cylinder to the only gas agency (Indane) in the district is supplied from Kimin bottling plant. The agency distributes cocking gas to Ruksin, Mebo, Sille and Bilat areas in the district as the authority has not yet given any additional agency. The monthly allotments of gas cylinder in the service stations are Ruksin - 200,  Mebo- 200, Sille- 300 and Bilat- 35, while the rest are distributed in Pasighat area. The agency has managed two vans to drop the cylinders in the respective areas.

The manager informed that his agency has demand of about 6700 cylinder per month, but is getting average 3500 refilled cylinders from the bottling plant. It received a total 5224 refilled cylinder in January, but due to frequent bandh in Assam, the supply was decreased to 3492 in the month of February. Moreover, leakage in the refilled cylinders is adding the trouble as it finds average 10 to 15 leaked cylinders every month. The leaked cylinders are regularly replaced with the new supply.

"We are trying best to mitigate the shortfall in the coming days, but we have no control over the bandhs and blockades. We have demanded to increase the monthly quota but the IOC has not yet complied it", the manager added.

 

 

SUMA questions delay in fulfilling demands

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: Questioning the delay in fulfilling its charter of demands placed before the state government despite assurance by the Chief Minister, the Students Union Movement of Arunachal Pradesh (SUMA), in a release said that any further delay in fulfilling its demand would compel the union to resort to democratic movement.

Expressing strong resentment over the state government's negligent attitude, SUMA said that the Chief Minister during a meeting with the Union in December one had assured to look into various demands by constituting separate committees within very short period of time.

"The delay on the part of government has created confusions and put a question mark on the integrity of the union," the release said, adding that any further delay in solving the problems will not auger well for the state.

SUMA's charter of demands included, cancellation of land allotments allotted to non-APSTs, immediate withdrawal of implementation of MSDP scheme from Arunachal Pradesh, restrain the formation of Naga People's Front (NPF), the regional political party of Nagaland in Arunachal Pradesh, stop random enrollment of non-APSTs in electoral rolls, among others.

Meanwhile, SUMA warned NPF of dire consequences if the party ever tries to step in the political field of the state.

Meanwhile,   SUMA  Papum Pare unit will be conducting social service at Community health Centre complex, Doimukh on March 6.

 

 

TKSC urges Congress high command to re-induct Mein into council of ministers

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: Tai Khampti Singphow Council (TKSC) has urged the high command of the Indian National Congress to re-induct Chowna Mein into the Council of Ministers considering his immense contributions to the party.

Describing the decision of the Congress party high command and the chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh to drop three cabinet ministers, including Congress stalwart Mein as shocking, the Council said that dropping of Mein, a senior and vibrant Congress leader instrumental in bringing back the Congress from the crisis of 2003 and installation of the Congress government in 2004, from the council of minister was not a healthy trend.

The Council alleged that some of the legislators and cabinet ministers instead of recognising the hard work of Mein are busy in maligning his image with vested interests and succeeded in dropping him from the council of ministers. Such an unhealthy trend within the party fold and governance has directly affected the well-being of the economically backward Khampti and Singphow communities, the release said and demanded re-induction of him into the council of minister so that the people of the state, specially Lohit district repose their faith in the Congress leadership and the government.

 

 

Anti-opium awareness campaign launched at Lazu

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: A massive anti-opium awareness campaign was launched in Laju circle recently by a team of Narcotics Control Bureau and Lazu circle officer along with Khonsa police, Assam Rifles.

On the first day of the campaign, the villagers of Lazu and Sanliam under Lazu circle of Tirap have agreed to give up opium cultivation as it has not only affected their health and economic condition but also portrayed them poorly in the society.

Poppy plants cultivated in 48 acres of land were destroyed on the first day of the campaign.

The campaign will cover all the opium-growing areas in Tirap and Longding district.

Local population has supported the campaign in a big way by shouting and displaying anti-opium slogans and posters and assured to continue their fight against opium menace.

Opium is extensively cultivated in those areas and use of the drug has become a great problem for the society.

Meanwhile, the Chandan Women Welfare Society of Wakka Circle conducted a massive campaign against opium cultivation and sales of opium. The campaign was organized with support of District Administration, police personnel, CRPF and newly created Longding District Students' Union.

The drive began at Khanu village and Chop villages and the members destroyed opium plantation in  about 20 acres of land and  decided to continue in all the villages of Wakka circle.

While welcoming the step, Wakka CO C.Chuku said this is the beginning of development and promised to cooperate in all other initiative to be taken.

 

 

Strict adherence to safety rules stressed on National Safety Day

ITANAGAR, Mar 04: The 43rd National Safety Day has been celebrated at Ranganadi HE Plant of NEEPCO at Hoj in a befitting manner today.

On the occasion, Takhe Tamo, Deputy Chief Inspector, Factories & Boilers, GoAP emphasized on prevention of accident by strictly employing and adopting safety rules/measures at work places. He said that loss of life and property due to accident is not only an individual loss but great loss to the family, society and the nation as a whole.

D Bhattacharjee, DGM (E/M) stressed the need of strict adherence to safety rules and norms prescribed in the Factory and Industrial Act and the OSHAS 18001: 2007 and appealed to the employees to maintain safety procedures at work places to avoid any accident.

CK Dhingia, Assistant Manager (Safety) briefed on this year's theme of the Day "Managing stress at work place."

Tanya Taji, Senior Manager (E/M), Maintenance, highlighted the various safety measures adopted in the plant which has made the plant a leader in adherence to safety norms thus avoiding any major incident during the last several years.

ML Kumhar, Sr. Manager (E), Operation also stressed on the necessity of adherence of the safety norms and urged the employees to deliver their best.

Quiz competition, discussion on safety issues were also held among the employees of RHEP.

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2012

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

All rights reserved.

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---- Editorial ----

 

Existing districts should be properly developed

Governor of Arunachal Lt Gen (Rtd) Nirbhay Sharma yesterday gave assent for the creation of four new districts. These districts are Kra Daadi, Namsai, Siang and Lower Siang. The frontier state, presently with 17 districts, will now have 21 districts. Chief Minister Nabam Tuki while reacting to creation of new districts stated that people’s aspirations have been at last fulfilled. No doubt, people are rejoicing over new districts, but the question is how state government will generate for their development?

The creation of new districts will burden the already over burdened state exchequer. These districts will have to be provided with sufficient fund for setting up of district headquarters. The infrastructure development of new district headquarter will need massive funding. For the state like ours which is dependent on central government for fund, this task will not be easy.  Instead of creating so many new districts, the state government should concentrate in developing the existing districts. Such is the apathy that successive state governments have not even been able to properly develop infrastructure of capital complex. In this context, one wonders how government will manage this mess of new districts.

---- Readers Forum ----

 

Sentiment of people hurt

Dear Editor,

Through your esteemed daily I would like to inform you that, UNYING AARAN FESTIVAL is one of the biggest festivals of Adi community. Since time immemorial it is celebrated on 7th of March every year. It has been observed that the Unying Aaran festival has been omitted from the state holiday list. Since the festival is celebrated by Adi community, therefore the day was declared holiday in Adi belt district like Upper Siang,  East Siang, West Siang and Lower Dibang Valley  by concern  Deputy Commissioner for the interest of the people.

We are concern about such omission as it may create impact causing loss of age old tradition and custom of Adi society. Therefore I on behalf of Adi Community would like to request the concerned authority to take immediate action in correcting the holiday list in govt. of AP calendars/ diaries. Also request apex body of the Adi's- The Adi Baane Kebang (ABK) to take up the issue so that the sentiment of the people may not be hurt further.

Yours,

Dr.Rajen Kombo

Chairman,

Unying Aaran Celebration Committee- 2014

Naharlagun

 

 

 

AP Govt. employees want DA

Dear Editor,

Through the column of your esteemed daily I would like to request the state government led by Nabum Tuki to declare the 10 percent Dearness Allowance of govt. employees before the declaration of Parliamentary Election or implementation of model code of conduct as announced by central government off late. The state government in line with the union govt. should announce DA at this point of time because govt employees’ bears the brunt of skyrocketing prices of commodities besides, it may manifest the state government's concern for employees.

Yours,

Tade Yao

Naharlagun

 

 

Empathy towards film fraternity

Dear Editor,

I would like to utilize the column of your esteemed daily to draw the attention of general public towards recently concluded 2nd edition of ARUNACHAL FILM FESTIVAL. It was a very well organized 3-day program and significantly a vital step towards the development of film industry in the state.

But to my dismay, the responses from the public have been very poor. I happened to attend the screening of a film on the 2nd day. To my surprise, I was the only audience joined by few more after the interval in the echoing Siddhartha hall. Winners of the competitions running away just after receiving the prizes were even pathetic to watch on the 3rd and final day. Leave about learning from the experienced ones, they didn’t even have the patience to sit out the valedictory function.

Of course, Film making and film industry is at its nascent stage and taking its baby step. But, DIPR is evidently doing its bit to encourage and promote the budding film makers. Chief Guest, Chief Secy. Ramesh Negi categorically pointed out the challenges and prospects lying ahead as well.

We, as a society, I strongly feel should encourage our film fraternity since they are the ones who are showcasing our rich customs, traditions and folks through their lenses. They serve as the modern means of educating us about different tribes inhabiting this land. They are the ambassadors of our state to the other parts of the country and the world. Giving rich audience to them domestically would be a pat on their shoulders and help them grow.

Yours,

Rugli Gali

Itanagar

 

 

Poor power supply making life difficult for students

Dear Editor,

Through the column of your esteemed daily I would like to express extreme disappointment against poor power supply in the state capital. As we all know that February, March, April and May is the month of Annual Exam or Semester Exam of State Board, CBSE, Colleges and University. The students are facing a lots of problems due to erratic power supply especially during night time.

Therefore I highly solicit concern authority to continuously supply the power during night for the better preparation of exam. The poor students are totally depended on electricity to study in night time.

Yours,

Hillang Jadish.

B.Com III year

DNG College Itanagar.

 

 

Let issues be resolved for better tomorrow

Dear Editor,

As chief minister Nabam Tuki has said that notifications for Lower Siang district would be issued soon, I request the brethrens of Nari-Koyu,Likabali and Basar constituencies to make a united call on the issue. We should not behave like greedy brothers fighting with each other for ancestral property, as it sends very wrong message to the others. On the contrary we should act wisely in unison as most of us may have heard of the saying "united we stand, divided we fall”.

We can decide issues through round table conference, public meeting etc because it’s not the end of world. There will be many more important and bigger issues of our community in the future which we will have to address. Is this what we will teach our upcoming generations and future young leaders, as the younger’s always follows the path shown by the elders? If necessary we should be ready to sacrifice everything for welfare of each other or in the fight between two cats monkey will devour the cake. We have to teach the way of unity, wisdom, sacrifice and strength to our younger and future generations, so that it becomes a turning point in the history of Galo society and people. As we know that our state is fund deprived state, if no consensus is reached among us the fund meant for Lower Siang district could be diverted for creation of other new districts which are being demanded.

Yours,

Karmik Ngomdir

Aalo

 

 

 

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----Editor