mar15 28

2015

March 28

HTS bill submission opposed in KK

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: In a letter to the Secretary Food and Civil Supplies, a group of Zilla Parishad Members of Kurung Kumey district strongly opposed the payment of Hills Transport Subsidy Bill allegedly submitted by the carriage contractor against head load carriage charge from Koloriang to Parsi-Parlo and Sarli.

Opposing the HTS bill, PRI members claimed that route from Bridge Point Koloriang to Parsi-Parlo circle headquarter and Koloriang to Sarli are well connected by all weather road and no question of head load carriage arise. The PRI leaders went on to claim that, “Only few bags of rice grain under PDS items reportedly reached Parsi-Parlo and Sarli that too by vehicles”. It further claimed that the bills which were verified by and forwarded by Circle Officer of Parsi-Parlo and Sarli are forged one as it has no counter sign of District Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee. The PRI members urged the Secretary to return the bills and ensure verification at District Level Vigilance Committee.

Meanwhile, claiming that there are irregularities in management of PDS in the district a group of PRI members from Kra-Daadi District have sought Chief Minister’s intervention. The members also claimed that bogus bills amounting to crores of rupees have been submitted by the contractor. It appraised the CM to hand over the matter to the SIT.

12 houses devastated in fire

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: In yet another devastating fire accident, 12 houses were burnt down at Tumbin village under Kaying Circle in Siang district today.

The household properties of the victims were completely devoured in the fire which broke out at around 11.30 am.

Detailed reports of the fire accident are still awaited.

A team of Dolung Aun Society (DAS) led by its General Secretary Takeng Payang, rushed to the spot and donated blankets to the victims as an immediate relief.

Meanwhile, expressing concern over the frequent fire accident, Adi Bane Kebang Youth Wing President, Aling Pinggam has appealed to the concerned department and the state government for providing relief materials to the victims immediately.

BRO restores collapsed bridge

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: Border Road Organization (BRO) has successfully restored a collapsed bailey bridge near Echali and Sunli village on Etalin-Malinye road.

This 80-ft-long bridge at Km 29 had collapsed due to flash flood during September-October in 2012. The bridge was precariously hanging on the abutment and all efforts to restore it to its original position failed during the last two years until a team of dedicated BRO officers restored it recently.

The entire operation took two days of risky and breathtaking actions and BRO saved nearly Rs. 1 crore for the state.

Yadav Singh, AE, officer–in-charge, 327SPL (GREF) was instrumental in this successful operation, who was ably supported by the Chief Engineer (P) Udayak, Commander 752 BRTF and OC 62 RCC.

Indoor Residual Spray

YUPIA, Mar 27: Indoor Residual Spray (IRS) programme for control of malaria and other vector borne diseases will be started in entire Papum Pare district from April 1 to August 31, 2015.

While informing this, District Medical Officer Dr. S. Ronya instructed all medical officers of various PHCs and CHCs to supervise the IRS activities strictly as per guidelines. DIPRO

2 declared proclaimed offenders

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: Accused Tassar Tabang of Tabin village, Palin under Sangram Police Station, Kurung Kumey district has been declared proclaimed offender by the Sessions Judge, West Sessions Division, Yupia in connection with Naharlagun Police Station Case No. 24/04, informed Capital Complex SP.

Another accused one Tamar @ Tani Tagung of Tomar village, Tali under Sangram Police Station, Kurung Kumey has also been declared Proclaimed Offender by the Sessions Judge, West Sessions Division, Yupia in connection with Naharlagun Police Station Case No. 05/93, the SP further informed.

NHM staff to go on pen down strike

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: The executive members of the Programme Management Staffs Association under National Health Mission (NHM), Arunachal Pradesh in a meeting today decided to go on pen down strike from 6th April. The decision to go on pen down strike has been taken due to the failure of concerned department on restructuring of salary of all contractual staff under National Health Mission, stated a release.

AIR phone-in-prog

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: All India Radio, Itanagar will broadcast a live Phone-in-Programme "Hello Doctor" on its Arun FM (103.1 MHZ) channel on March 28.

Medical Officer from Ramakrishna Mission Hospital Maj. (Rtd.) Doctor Tabu Maling will reply to the listeners’ queries on malaria. Listeners can call in at 0360-2292239 and ask question on the given topic between 8 pm and 8.30 pm.

Children park inaugurated

ROING, Mar 27: Lower Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner, Shiv Kumar inaugurated a Children Park at General Ground here amidst the presence of govt officers and officials today. The Park was constructed with an amount of Rs 3.68 lakh under the Urban Wage Employment Programme (UWEP) component of Swarn Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY) Schemes 2013-14. The fund was sponsored by the Ministry of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation, Government of India at the ratio of 90: 10 by the Central and State Govt respectively, informed Riya Powak, DD, DUDA Roing. The DC and other Govt officials participated in the avenue plantation in the park to mark the occasion. DIPRO

Training on book keeping

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: Manghi Welfare Society under the aegis of NABARD, Itanagar organised five-day training programme on ‘Book keeping’ for Self Help Groups (SHGs) from March 20 to 24 last. Addressing the participants, O P Monglang, DDM NABARD, suggested them to maintain the book keeping record and regularly conduct the monthly meeting. Monglang added that SHGs should regularly deposit the monthly corpus fund to the bank. Ngurang Tado, President Manghi Welfare Society, suggested the SHG members to keep records of village data information. He called for compulsory maintenance of the cash book and ledger books. Altogether 125 members from 24 SHGs took part in the training.

Strategic Pinjoli bridge inaugurated

BOMDILA, Mar 27: The strategic Pinjoli Bridge located around 90 km away from the district headquarters here on Balipara-Charduar-Bomdila-Tawang road was today re-launched and inaugurated by Lt Gen Sarath Chand, General Officer Commanding 4 Corps in a simple but impressive function.

The bridge which was first constructed in 1977 was washed away in 1989, 1995 and then again in 1997. The bridge built in 1998 as a 160 feet double reinforced bailey bridge became unstable because of the sustained traffic over the last 16 years and hence was declared unsafe by the District Magistrate for movement of heavy vehicles in August 2014.

The new bridge of 180 feet specification having a roadway of 4.5 meters was completed in a record time of two months by 127 RCC and 18 Engineer Regiment which now would facilitate the smooth flow of the road users, both civil and military.

Gen Chand addressed the BRTF personnel and lauded their untiring and dedicated service in nation building and urged them to keep up the same tempo and spirit all through their service career. DIPRO

Parliamentary Secretary condoles Dilip Thatal

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: Parliamentary Secretary Women and Child Development and Fisheries, Karya Bagang has expressed her sadness on the mysterious death of Dilip Thatal Assistant Professor Don Bosco College Itanagar whose body was found at Chiputa on 23 March last. In a condolence message to the bereaved family, the Parliamentary Secretary also demanded thorough investigation into the death and apprehending of the culprits involved in the heinous crime.

Association resents at delay in completion

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: The All Mechuka Sub-Division Youth Welfare Association expressed resentment over alleged delay in completion of 33KV RGGVY scheme from Kamba to Mechuka. In a representation to Executive Engineer Aalo Electrical Division, the association claimed that most of poles erected are on the verge of collapse and poles are of poor quality. It also alleged that materials supplied for the scheme are also inferior in quality. The association further claimed that work has violated the guidelines claiming that jungle clearance work for transmission has not been properly executed.

Dharna staged successfully

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: All Lower Subansiri District Students’ Union (ALSDSU) on Thursday staged a peaceful dharna in the Deputy Commissioner’s office premise at Ziro demanding immediate redressal of its two point charter of demands. Reportedly, the district administration later agreed to fulfill the demands placed by the Union.

Retired VKV teacher dies

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: SNS Reddy a renowned teacher who served in various VKVs of Arunachal Pradesh for the last 37 years died yesterday. He was suffering from various ailments at the time of his death.

Hailing from Andhra Pradesh, a brilliant student of Physics, he joined as a teacher at VKV Kharsang in the year 1979. In his long tenure of service he offered his service as teacher and later worked as Principal in various VKVs like Kharsang, Amliang, Jairampur, Seijosa, Tafrogam, Itanagar, Shergaon, Nirjuli, and Yazali. He retired by superannuation in the year 2013 but continued to render his service to the VKVs.

Late Reddy was also a recipient of CBSE Best Teacher Award in 2005. For a short stint he also served as the Education Officer of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalayas Arunachal Pradesh Trust. “He will remain as a source of inspiration to many to offer their best to the society and will be a living example of the selfless service to be offered to the society of Arunachal Pradesh relinquishing everything personal,” the VKV Arunachal Trust stated in a release while paying tribute to late Reddy.

BJP welcomes conferment of “Bharat Ratna” on Vajpayee

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: Leaders of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Arunachal Pradesh welcomed the conferment of highest civilian honour “Bharat Ratna” on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

President Pranab Mukherjee personally visited the ailing leader, in a break from tradition, and conferred the award on him today.

Expressing gratitude to Narendra Modi led Government at the Centre for its historic decision to confer the award on him, State BJP president Tai Tagak in a felicitation meeting here today said that the award is a fitting salutation to Vajpayee for his unique contribution to the growth of vibrant democracy in India and unflinching commitment to the cause of the people of India.

The meeting was also addressed by the State General Secretary, Dominic Tadar, Vice President Techi Necha and Kenyir Ringu, State BJP Mahila Morcha President, P. Jamoh and recalled the contributions of the former prime minister towards growth of the country.

Street play on Swachh Bharat Abhiyan

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: Tani Art Group - an indigenous theatre group of Arunachal Pradesh celebrated International Theatre Day by performing street plays in various places of twin Capital city of Itanagar and Naharlagun on the theme "Swachh Bharat Abhiyan”.

Energetic performances of the artist group were performed at Takar Complex, Naharlagun and NERIST gate which was appreciated by hundreds of people.

This programme was organized by Tani Art Group in collaboration with Department of Art and Culture, GoAP and was sponsored by NEZCC, Dimapur.

The play was written and designed by Tai Tugung, Assistant Professor, (Hindi), Govt. College Doimukh.

MCH camps in remote villages conducted

SEPPA, Mar 27: A series of MCH (Mother & Child Health) camps were conducted at remote villages of Chyang Tajo sub-division recently.

A team led by Dr. Khoda Tada, Medical Officer in-charge of Community Health Centre, Chayang Tajo conducted the camps at Sawa, Pipu, Nari-Camp, Tajo headquarter, Domdila and Rebe/Killo.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Khoda Tada talked about the importance of Ante-Natal check up, institutional delivery, breast feeding, immunizations and diarrhea. Apart from general health check up of the villagers, immunizations of children and pregnant women were conducted.

East Kameng Deputy Commissioner, Sandeep Kr Singh who was on tour to Chayang Tajo attended the camp at Rebe Village on March 22.

Other participants who spoke were Ashok Tajo ADC, Chayang Tajo, S. Bellai CO, senior leaders Tara Bagang and Tame Yangfo.

PRI members also actively participated in all the camps. The PRI members of Rebe and Domdilla submitted a two points memorandum each for construction of Sub Centre and community Hall at Rebe village and Domdilla respectively. DIPRO

Consumers’ awareness programme at Kaying

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: The Department of Consumer Affairs and Legal Metrology, West Siang along with Kebo-Gambo Welfare Society and Kebo-Gambo Students Union organized a consumer awareness cum demonstration programme at Kaying town on March 25.

Addressing the gathering at the Inspection Bungalow, Jumba Karfigo Lobom an Assistant Controller, West Siang District Consumer Redressal Forum explained in detail about the Consumers Legal Rights and Duties as enshrined in the Consumer Protection Act and the role of Legal Metrology department.

The trained students from SFS College, Aalo demonstrated on how to detect fuel adulteration, test weights of LPG cylinders, and educated the public about ISI and Agmarks, weights and measures patterns etc.

Talong Gammi, a senior PRI member shared his experiences regarding various problems faced by the people especially from remote areas due to lack of awareness on consumer rights.

ASMs Tadu Palon, Kotin Pangu, Tabang Pabin, Tami Pangu, Kaying Town Market Welfare Committee President Taring Nyigang, Rumgong BCCI vice president Takeng Padung, former ASM Tapak Gammi and Kerang Welfare Society president also spoke on the occasion on various consumer related issues like food adulteration, unfair trade practice, MRP of products etc and their remedies through consumer awareness.

Kaying EAC Gyabo Pertin, Payum CO Hakraso Kri and Dr. Taking Gammi attended the programme and appreciated the Department and Kebo-Gambo Welfare Society and Kebo-Gambo Students Union for organizing the programme with the effort to make consumers aware about their rights, duties and responsibilities.

Public from various villages, HGBs and GBs of Kaying circle, panchayat leaders and representatives of Kerang Welfare Society, Kaying Town Market Welfare Committee, Women Welfare Society of Kaying circle, attended the programme.

News Impact

Tuki bats for continuing ‘special category status’ for NE states

NEW DELHI, Mar 27: Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has appealed for continuing the Special Category Status for North Eastern States with the corresponding benefits. He was speaking at the first meeting of the Sub-Group on Rationalization of Centrally Sponsored Schemes of NITI Aayog at New Delhi today.

Tuki pointed out that in view of the untapped resources, geographical and cost disabilities and huge transportation costs, the Centre should be sensitive to the Special Category States and not disturb this categorization.

He highlighted that in all the Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS), the States must be empowered to make dynamic State specific guidelines with emphasis on sufficient fund transfer for critical sectors such as health, education and infrastructure. He also stressed that the criteria for fund allocation must be development deficit and population criteria among others

While calling for continued impetus on need based planning, the Chief Minister urged the Government of India to continue the 90:10 pattern of funding for Central Sector Schemes. He also requested the members of the Sub Group to examine whether the decrease in allocation for CSS may be adjusted from Central Sector Plan.

Tuki observed that 10% non lapsable fund is earmarked for the North East Indian States in each Ministry. During the FY 2014-15, the total fund was estimated to be Rs 53000 crore. There must be mechanism that the State Governments of the NE states are allowed to project requirements and the felt needs of the region to spend this fund, Tuki said.

“The Northeastern states are late starters in the development process for historical and geographic reasons. The Special Category Status accorded to these states must not be abolished abruptly rather a transitory approach must be taken,” Tuki observed.

It has been the consistent plea of all States that the guidelines of all schemes must be region/state specific and therefore the tendency of the Ministries to issue generic pan Indian guidelines must be done away with, Tuki opined.

It is also our experience that many of the Government schemes eligibility are based on population. Arunachal Pradesh is being deprived and penalized on such schemes, as the state is the largest in the Northeast and the most sparsely populated state in the country. Arunachal Pradesh may be seen through a different lens on this issue. Under development rather than population should be criteria for eligibility for availing schemes, he added.

A working group has been constituted with the CEO, Niti Aayog and Nodal Officers to prepare the first draft of recommendations of the Sub Group.

The Sub Group was chaired by Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Chouhan.

Workshop on Sense Animation begins

Medium of animation has huge economic prospects: Felix

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Public Relations and Printing, Bamang Felix inaugurated a three-day workshop on ‘Sense Animation’ at Administrative Training Institute, Naharlagun today.

Organised by Satyajit Ray Film and Television institute, Kolkata in association with the Department of Information and Public Relations for students and budding film-makers, the first-ever workshop in the state of its kind, aims at providing a basic introduction of sense animation to the participants by highlighting its various aspects which has assumed significant importance especially from both entertainment and economic perspective in the present times.

Speaking on the occasion, Felix said that with the advancement of technology, animation as a vital component of entertainment industry has assumed significant dimension and has become a vital career avenue for many. Animation as a career opportunity has huge economic prospects for those who are trained and determined, he added. He called upon the participants to avail themselves of the workshop with sincerity.

Felix also appreciated the support of Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute to the state on various matters and asked the resource person Prof. Prakash Moorthy to nominate the best trainee to the Department of IPR so that it can sponsor him to a special course on Sense Animation.

Proff Moorthy, in his keynote address, highlighted various dimensions of animation as a medium of art and entertainment besides its inherent commercial prospects. The state is richly endowed with tremendous cultural heritage which is of immense value in terms of development of art and entertainment through the medium of animation, he said. He also expressed gratitude to the IPR Department for its co-operation and support in organising the workshop and expressed hope that with the establishment of the proposed Film and Television Institute in the state, the state would witness further progress in the subject. Earlier, Director of IPR C.M.Longphong, welcoming all, expressed hope that the three-day workshop would enlighten the participants on animation and thanked Prof Moorthy and the Satyajit Ray Institute of Film and Television, Kolkata, for their support to the state on various needs. Besides trainees Dani Salu, Secretary, IPR, and officers of the department participated in the inaugural function.

Altogether 26 participants drawn from Mass Communication Department of Rajiv Gandhi University, members of local film fraternity, budding artists and film-makers besides officials of the department are participating in the three-day workshop. DIPR

Media advocacy ahead of Mission Indradhanush

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: In a bid to sensitize media, both print and electronic for responsible reporting and effective dissemination of information on ‘Mission Indradhanush’, a one day media advocacy programme was conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh Health Society today at conference hall of Director Health Service office. The department is launching ‘Mission Indradhanush’ in Arunachal Pradesh on April 7 next.

Earlier, Union Health Minister J.P Nadda formally launched the mission on December 25, 2014 in New Delhi with the aim to immunize all children especially half-vaccinated and left out against seven preventable diseases namely diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, polio, tuberculosis, measles and hepatitis B across the country. In Arunachal, the mission is entirely focusing on five identified districts namely East Kameng, East Siang, Upper Siang, Changlang and Lohit where number of left-out (never immunized) children is stated to be higher than other districts in Arunachal Pradesh. The vaccinations will target 0-2 age group of children and the pregnant women.

Emphasizing on the role of media in creating awareness on importance of vaccination, Special Secretary Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Tariq Thomas pointed out the responsibility in reporting of media persons to clear the misconception of parents who are reluctant to bring their kids for vaccination. He also sought cooperation from media persons for intensive media campaign to sensitize the people.

Hoping immunization will cover every child, Director Health Service Dr. K. Nishing said that full media coverage will bring a desired result of bringing 100% immunization.

Mission Director National Health Mission P.N. Thungon while welcoming the media persons emphasized that media can play an effective role in addressing the issue by disseminating information and percolating down the information to grass root level by actively publishing on importance of Mission Indradhanush.

In his address, Dr. Emi Rumi, Joint Director Family Welfare said that media can play a crucial role in educating the people on importance of vaccination and also act as an agent by raising awareness on it and by informing the health department about public concerns and needs. Through power point presentation, Dr. Rumi informed that India could only manage to immunize 65.2 percent of children despite lot of efforts.

Dr. Tage Taka, SMO (WHO-NPSU) giving a presentation on State Preparedness on Mission Indradhanush stressed that due to fear psychosis of AEFI (After Effects following Immunizaion), there is a huge gap in immunization. He further informed through AEFI Surveillance programme, quality immunization service will be ensured.

Dr. Jyotiranjan Raut of UNICEF presented the communication strategies and emphasized on role of media in responsible reporting and dissemination of correct information. The programme was participated by the members from both print and electronic media including DDK, Itanagar and other medical officers.

CM congratulates archer Genung Tekseng, assures full support

NEW DELHI, Mar 27: Chief Minister Nabam Tuki felicitated archer Genung Tekseng at New Delhi today for winning a silver medal in the team event for India at the Junior Asia Cup Archery Championships held at Bangkok recently. While congratulating Tekseng, Tuki lauded her for bringing laurels for the country as well as the State.

Inviting her for an informal interaction in the CM’s office at Arunachal Bhawan in the national capital, the Chief Minister discussed her future plans and assured his full support to the player. A host of other officials and well wishers congratulated Tekseng on her performance.

It may be mentioned that Tekseng had earlier this year won the Gold Medal in the National Games held at Kerala. She is undergoing training at the Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy and is a student of Ganga Higher Secondary School at Itanagar. She hails from Yingkiong in Upper Siang district.

JN College authorities hit back, terms allegation as baseless

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: The teaching staff and concern authorities of Jawaharlal Nehru College, Pasighat have strongly reacted to the allegation of the misappropriation of student’s stipend money. The Students Union of JNC had accused the college authorities of misappropriating government fund meant for students’ stipend and other academic activities.

However in a clarification, Principal JNC College stated that the stipends have been cleared for all the students except those who failed. “An amount of Rs.1, 25, 43, 970 (Rupees one crore twenty-five lakhs forty three thousand nine hundred seventy) was sanctioned as stipend vide Order No. ED/HE-STP/77/11-12(Pt.)/2779-784, dated 8/01/2015. Out of the above mentioned sanction amount, disbursement of Rs. 1, 23, 68, 920 (Rupees one crore twenty- three lakhs sixty-eight thousand nine hundred twenty) has already been made and transferred to the accounts of the students respectively. An amount of Rs. 1, 75,050 (Rupees one lakh seventy-five thousand fifty) has not been drawn and no bill has been prepared because the amount was sanctioned against the names of students who had failed in the examination,” the college Principal stated. Further he added that the list of students who passed in the special examination held in December 2014 has already been sent to the office of Director Higher and Technical Education for verification and award of stipend accordingly.

The Principal also clarified that unequal distribution of the stipend is happening due to various norms for distributing it. “Students with higher percentage of marks (60% and above) in the qualifying exam have been awarded higher amount of stipend. Also the book grant for honours students is more than of pass course students,” the principal continued.

Meanwhile, the Arunachal Pradesh College Teachers Association (APCTA) J N College unit in an emergency meeting held today termed the allegations as baseless, as all kinds of decision regarding the award of stipend is taken by the Directorate of Higher and Technical Education. They further questioned the authenticity of 1800 students being debarred from getting stipend. “If so, it is in gross contradiction of the amount sanctioned and not drawn by the college authority which amounts to Rs. 1, 75, 050 only, which implies that this amount divided among 1800 students would mean that a student will be awarded Rs. 97.25 only as stipend. Hence allegations are untrue,” the APCTA J N College unit stated.

DC unhappy with credit deposit ratio of the banks

TEZU, Mar 27: Lohit Deputy Commissioner, Dr. B M Mishra today expressed dissatisfaction over the credit deposit ratio of the quarter end of December 2014. He asked the banks to make strategic approach for a better ratio.

While presiding over the combined meeting of District Level Review Committee, District Consultative Committee and District level Security Committee to monitor the performance of Banks for the quarter ended of December 2014 here today, he suggested awareness programmes like loan mela, institutional talks in Indira Gandhi College on financial prudence for financial literacy. He also asked the Government departments to provide technical assistance to the new entrepreneurs who have sought loan assistance from the Bank branches in Tezu for their business establishments. Giving special emphasis on Prime Minister Jan Dhan Yojana, the DC said that the personnel of bank branches should go to the villages to open accounts for uncovered households for maximum coverage and 100 per cent benefit under PMJDY. He also reviewed progress of the implementation of various schemes like PMEGP, SHG, WCC, NRLM etc.

Bimalendu Dhar, Chief Manager SBI Tezu informed the house that identification and selection of the beneficiaries under various schemes of Government are carefully monitored for smooth recovery of loan.

Representative of banks in Tezu, representative from Department of Industries, Textile and Handicraft, Agriculture, Block Development Office, DRDA, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Horticulture etc were present in the meeting.

Financial assistance to Balijan tea growers SHG

ITANAGAR, Mar 27: Trade & Commerce director Tokong Pertin handed over the sanction letter to Tana Tad, the President and M. Basar, Treasurer, of the Balijan Small Tea Grower’s SHG in a simple function at his office chamber. S Modi, Deputy Director, Toko Togur, Astt. Director, S. Rajbongshi, Asstt. Director, Tea Board, B. Bordoloi, Jr. Advisory Officer, TRA were present on the occasion.

The Balijan Small Tea Growers’ SHG, a registered SHG, based at Balijan, Papum Pare district has been able to get sanction of Rs 5.00 lakhs as financial assistance under Tea Board’s PDS-activity SHG for purchase of Tractor and trailor (Rs. 351985) and the balance amount (Rs. 148015) as revolving corpus.

Under Tea Board’s Plantation Development Scheme, a SHG with minimum 30 growers with a minimum command area of 20 hectare can apply for a 50% subsidy on Leaf Carrying Vehicle for transportation of own green leaves to factory. This facility is given to small growers who always depend on leaf agents for carrying their leaves to factory due to non availability of a vehicle. Most of agents do not pay proper green leaf price to growers even though they receive better price from factory.

The basic objective of forming of SHG is to carry own good quality green leaves to factory and to fetch proper green leaf price as per price sharing formula of Tea Board. With the revolving corpus fund, the group can purchase fertilizers, pesticides, other inputs etc in bulk.

While congratulating the SHG, the Director called upon the leaders of the SHG to make their group a successful one, so that growers of other areas come to visit them. He also urged them to maintain proper accounts and book keeping for future other Board’s benefits.

Review meeting on Swachh Bharat scheme, transfer and posting of teachers held

ZIRO, Mar 27: A meeting was held at DC’s Mini conference hall under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Ziro in order to review the construction of toilet under Swachh Bharat scheme, construction of new Primary School under PAB- 2014-15, non affiliation of certain private schools in Lower Subansiri District with the CBSE, New Delhi, rationalization of transfer and posting of SSA teachers for the district today.

In regards to the toilets construction under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, DDSE Yumlam Tana has suggested all BEOs to take up the construction work on war footing in order to meet the deadline of April 15th, 2015. He further said that the quality work should not be compromised by any means.

The Deputy Commissioner, Kanki Darang has directed the representative of NEEPCO to report the actual facts and figure of toilets sanctioned by the Govt of India to the NEEPCO for Lower Subansiri district in order to avoid duplicity in implementation of the toilet constructions for boys and girls under Swachh Bharat programme.

Regarding construction of New Primary and Upper Primary Schools under the PAB – 2014-15, the Deputy Commissioner directed all the BEOs to monitor and supervise the construction works. He further suggested the BEO’s of three blocks to acquire the new school building for the department latest by the 20th May.

It was decided that a meeting would be convened at an appropriate time to discuss the matter related to the issue of certain private schools of the district who are conniving with the principals/Head Masters of government schools by getting their students registered and thereby enabling them to appear for the CBSE exams despite having no proper CBSE affiliations. It was also decided to direct all the private schools which are not yet affiliated to get affiliation from CBSE as soon as possible.

The DC also directed the DDSE and his team of BEOs to come up with a proper proposal related to rationalization of teachers transfer in the district, for which a board was constituted that will submit its report by April last. In this connection all the BEOs were instructed to work out the details regarding transfer and posting of SSA teachers for their respective blocks. DIPRO

Mass awareness on electronic waste: A multi-strategic approach

Dr Pebam Munindro Singh

INTRODUCTION

E-waste (or electronic waste), broadly, refers to the old, end-of-life electronic gadgets or appliances, which are disposed by their original users. Current digital revolution, in a quest for providing better welfare, safety and security in almost all aspects of day-to-day life, pumps in electronic gadgets of latest technology. This results in piling up the electronic waste, which posses the biggest threat to environment and human health, in the years to come. Almost all the electronic components assembled in these new generation electronic gadgets and appliances contain many toxic constituents such as beryllium, arsenic, antimony, lead, cadmium, mercury, lead oxide, poly vinyl chloride etc. which goes to land-filled only, if not properly collected for recyclable and reusable purposes. These basic constituents have varied effects, such as potential carcinogens, damaging the central and peripheral nervous systems, kidneys, liver and also affects child development, disturb endocrine function, and many more.

THE RISING ALARM

The volume of e-waste generated cannot be compromised due to fast changing of life style and development of electronics. Despite different reasons for generation of e-waste in the developed and developing countries, the impact on human health and environment remains same. The gravity of concern is more in developing countries like India, which is one of the known destinations of this waste. Adding to this, the presence and operation of unauthorized scrap dealers and recyclers, which outnumber the authorized centre, aggravated our lovely environment and ecological implications.

NECESSITY OF MASS AWARENESS

Even though the government of India passed the first bill on the issue of electronic waste, effective May 2012 and some non - government sectors have taken initiatives for the control and management of this menace, the ground reality shall be more effective if the awareness on this issue reaches the end users. Creating public awareness and effective management plan are the tools for tackling the menace of electronic waste. The second one is mainly regulated by government. Overall in our existing system, government lies at the top, which are lacking in effort and general public lies at the bottom which are lacking in awareness of this menace. In the middle lies the producer. Here, it means manufacturing companies which are showing negligence on their part, even though they are prohibited from disposition of their goods unless registered under the EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) regime. But, by bringing public awareness, it may help in pressurizing the implementation of strict regulation which is to be frame by the government or regulatory bodies, and definitely it will bring more stringent for producers in tackling the issues.

Assessment studies on the awareness or awareness levels of electronic waste among different age-groups in some parts of the country were already reported. It seems appropriate, if the different awareness strategy were choked out first so as to reach the target which will definitely bring down the level of hazards on human health and environment from electronic waste. Moreover, there are some important reasons for the need of mass awareness on electronic waste. Firstly, electronic waste constitutes global health and environmental hazard, and the related toxic effect can spread throughout a person’s lifetime and in certain cases, across the generation. Secondly, by giving awareness, the consumer responsible behavior can be enhanced. Thirdly, it will help in sensitizing public on reusing and/or recycling of electronic waste and lastly, it will reduce the barrier in effective management plan.

AWARENESS STRATEGY AT VARIOUS LEVELS

Personal level: Awareness should start from oneself. Then only, one can spread awareness by telling about the e-waste, their sources and impact of such menace on environment and human health to family members, friends and persons at workplace. This will definitely enhance the consumer responsible behavior towards effective management plan.

Community level: Consumers and businesses can be encouraged to play a leading role in safe disposal of electronic waste. A better informed community can only bring some positive actions to achieve a more sustainable future. Even the knowledge of manual process of segregation of electronic items may be imparted, which will help definitely in enhancing more awareness on the dangers of some of the components and improve the economy of the community if scrap collectors are present. After all effective management plan can be more fruitful with more community participation.

Institutional level: Institutions, whether it is a school, or a college or university, it is known as the temple of learning and knowledge hub. Teaching-learning is the concept of modern style of education which is a two process. Here, various interaction programs on aspects of this menace can be organized. These programs may be different for schools and higher educational institutions, but the goal should be same. Technical terms related to this menace which find place in the educational curriculum should be given more emphasis in the form of project work, which can even be produce as exhibition model. This is one of the finest ways of spreading awareness. In addition to this, a multi-disciplinary approach, which is very viable in any institution, is highly demanding in addressing this issue.

Government sector: Besides, being a mere regulator and enactment of stringent environmental laws, government needs to collaborate with various stakeholders to bring mass awareness, which will have synergistic effect. Since this menace is one of the biggest concerns in the present time, a huge investment is necessary for awareness and assessment studies from different perspectives. Pollution control board of respective states, particularly the north-eastern states, should be very alert and take proactive role. The concluding remark of the workshop “e-waste: creating changes”, by Toxics link on 5th-6th September 2013, in Gauhati, which was attended by chairman of pollution control board of the six north-eastern states, lack of mass awareness on e-waste in the north-east region, need mention in this context.

Non-government sector: Already some non-government organizations in the country, like Knowledge Bank for e-waste management in India, The e-waste guide, India, National Solid Waste Association of India and Toxics link have started working for the control of this menace and try to bring awareness through various forms. Network among these NGO’s should be strengthened so as to reach the common goal, that is clean environment, and give more thrust in enhancing public awareness.

Media: Whether print or electronic media, it has a very big role in every sphere of imparting awareness on certain issue. Only through media, awareness on such menace, can reach the unreachable. Through television only, the various factors pertaining to this menace can be telecasted in local languages. Then even a layman can get the knowledge which will be very helpful in management and control of such waste. Banners or posters may be placed in most public areas highlighting the impact of this menace on human health and the deteriorating environment. A newsroom could do a story to showcase a local business that has put in place - E-waste disposal system for their products. Even social media like Facebook and Tweeter can be brought here, where millions of today’s generations are in access to it.

CONCLUSION

The alarm of electronic waste needs to be addressed systematically and very stringently. Bringing mass awareness on this menace is one of the important components in tackling the current scenario. Co-ordination among various stakeholders is required to protect and control from this menace. Above this, the political will of the government is necessary in order to bring a safer environment. (The writer is Assistant professor, Chemistry, D N Govt. College, Itanagar)

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2012

---- Readers Forum ----

It is failing every day with “Do’s and Don’ts”

Dear Editor,

Just as how Mark Twain noted, it is by the goodness of God that in our country we have the most unspeakable precious things: freedom of Speech, freedom of Conscience yet, the prudence to never practice either of them. My country’s prevailing position on the “Freedom of Speech” seems to be resonating the same as Mark’s. Though constitutionally provisioned, we have now and then, over the years seen and heard a lot of condemnation, restrictions and censorship. From the Government in power, from the opposition, from the self acclaimed, “Righteous groups”, (we don’t need to mention them, do we?) unceasingly towards the various media houses, activists, writers, authors and advocates of freedom of speech. And now young agitated students. A country where, we are taught to speak our mind and live our preach, has been certainly not living up to its promissory note. It is failing every day, when we are told, “Do’s and Don’ts”.

The Supreme court judgement on the Sec.66A, has come about as a respite among all the sound and likeminded speakers like me, and others’ in the Indian society that has come afar in contributing a little everyday to the society. Thank you to the Judiciary, for keeping our faith in you intact. “With its judgement to strike down a legal provision for violating freedom of speech, the Supreme Court has paved the way for thoughtful jurisprudence in the age of the internet”.

Let us, speak our Mind, however remembering the certain “restrictions “so that we don’t destroy the diverse fabric of our society, like educated humans.

The government and others’, those in constant opposition, should remember that, “if the freedom of speech is taken away, then dumb and silent we may be led, like a sheep to slaughter.”

Yours,

Ngurang Reena

JNU, Delhi

They are not gods

Dear Editor,

There have been many episodes in the world history, where there have been struggle between the ruling government and the ruled people. The famous revolutions in the world history were carried out by common people when they realized that they were deprived and exploited by their rulers. Thus democracy was invented. Democratic governments have also witnessed many tragedies. Decisions and policies made by the leaders of democratic nations in Europe and America have made their citizens undergo many great economic depressions in the past and in recent times. Therefore, democratically elected leaders of AP should not think that they are Gods; they ought not to think that whatever they do is perfectly correct. The same is true for the bureaucrats and officers of AP. The economic decisions of officers who studied in top universities of the world and appointed by the UK and US governments were the cause of the great economic depressions, which not only affect UK and US, but the entire world. The annual reports of the past decade of the power department tell that the department did not spend any money to check electric loss in distribution. The power department is in deficit of Rs 300 cr. The pre-paid meter cannot detect electric theft. The pre-paid meter project costs 90 cr. But, CM Tuki is insisting on pre-paid meter. The CM, Tuki himself could not furnish utilization certificates for projects worth thousands of crores. He did present a full budget. Illogical land bill was passed. The governor and chief secretary did not say anything about it. Now, when people are raising their voice for their basic need, electricity, the chief secretary is issuing warnings. It seems there is implicit nexus to loot this state and her people with the mask of democracy. Can the Tukiji give detailed account of he used thousands of crores of money which was offered by GoI for the people of AP? Can chief secretary give detailed account of how various departments used and implemented that money? They cannot and they will not. But, such major issues will never be brought to light. Can the chief secretary give account for lack of tendering system in the state, back door appointments, high goods prices in the state, corruption in schools and hospitals and thousand other issues?

I have participated at Anna and Kejriwal protest movements here in Delhi against GoI policies. In AP also we can challenge and protest any of the state policies and even GoI policies. These provisions are provided by the Constitution of India.

I would urge the ruling party, opposition party and bureaucrats, elite societies, NGOs, student unions and public of AP to read and learn right to protest and dissent provided by the Constitution of India. Delhi government which has no power plant is providing her people with free electricity, but AP which boasts to be the power hub is forcing her people to pre-pay for electricity. What an irony?

I would also urge bureaucrats, elite societies, NGOs, student unions, media persons and public of AP to stage peace protest against the present ruling government for not passing the state budget. Till date there has been no protest from bureaucrats, elite societies, NGOs, professors, student unions, media persons and public of AP against CM Tukiji’s decision not to pass the state budget. This is a very serious and acute issue. No outsider will come to help us, we have to help ourselves. So, let us check and cross-check ourselves with an aim to make Arunachal Pradesh a progressive and developed state.

Yours,

Takam Tadar,

Delhi University,

New Delhi

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----Editor

---- Editorial ----

Well-off people should give up subsidy

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday appealed to the well-off people to join the movement to voluntarily give up their LPG subsidy. PM made this appeal while speaking after inaugurating "Urja Sangam" 2015 in New Delhi. Modi stated that those people who can afford to buy LPG at market rates should give up subsidy on cooking gas. The PM added that this is already happening and over 2.8 lakh consumers have surrendered LPG subsidy, resulting in a saving of Rs 100 crore to the exchequer.

The appeal made by Prime Minister is very important and can have serious impact on the development of India. Massive amount of government exchequer is lost in subsidizing the cooking gas. Also it is seen that most of the time the actual poor for whom the subsidy is meant does not get the benefit. Therefore those Indians who can afford to buy cooking gas as well as other subsidized items at market rate should stop claiming subsidy for the greater cause of the nation. The money that will be saved by giving up of LPG subsidy can be used for the poor, so that they have access to clean energy.