may15 26

2015

May 26

NE needs a paradigm shift: PPA

ITANAGAR, May 25: PPA says that North Eastern States and Arunachal in particular want a paradigm shift in the Center's policy viz a viz the state of Arunachal in terms of doing away with the decades old dependency syndrome on the centre, the state has been afflicted with.

Instead of just eyeing the hydropower resources in Arunachal Pradesh which gives the impression of the central government policy as being highly 'extractive' and 'exploitative', the Modi government henceforth should start concentrating on investment towards promotion of Human Resource Development first.

The saffron leaders of the state unit of Arunachal, instead of expecting routine central grants may re-orient themselves towards establishment of Educational Institutes like IITS, IIMS, AIIMS and such other institutions that can help the state grow at par with other regions of the nation like Gujarat and Maharashtra, said Kaling Jerang, Secretary General, PPA in a party meeting on 'Impact of NDA rule in the state of Arunachal Pradesh'.

Considering the transitional stage at which the stage is passing through along with problems and issues peculiar to this tribal state, the Peoples' Party of Arunachai shall voice against any efforts of the Central Government to implement the Uniform Civil Laws in the state (like the national land laws etcs) much against the spirit of Unity in Diversity that keeps the various regions of the country united. The state needs genuine care and attention from the Centre rather than the sudden pace of non planned developments taken up because of the state's strategic importance, Jerang added.

Social Service

ITANAGAR, May 25: Re-United Club of Dumporijo organized a social service to clean Dumporijo town Sunday.

The members of the club cleaned road from Fishery tri-junction to CHC Dumporijo. Besides the club members, the cleanliness drive was participated by staff of the CHC. They cleared road side weeds and collected waste materials which were disposed later.

Pickle making training

ITANAGAR, May 25: Amik Matai Society with support of Directorate of Skill Development & Employment Generation, Arunachal Pradesh Government recently organised training on making different types of pickles at Ngechan village under Khimiyang block of Changlang district.

The training was organized under Border Area Development Programme wherein more than 35 women beneficiaries have undergone training.

Amaka Tadar Ngemu, President APWWS (Changlang South) said that pickle making is a traditional activity practiced by the women in our region and we should learn new methods of preservation and giving flavour to them. He also spoke on women empowerment and the role of Self-Help Group (SHG) in building sustainable rural community.

Khimiyang Circle Officer Bamin Tarang encouraged the women to produce pickle on commercial basis since there has been demand for pickles in local markets. He also briefed on district administration’s efforts for promotion of local textiles, cardamom and herbal tea in other parts of the state and the country.

General Secretary of Amik Matai Society while highlighting the the aims and objectives of the training reiterated the importance of women empowerment to build a strong community and strong nation.

Skill development training for border area people

KOLORIANG, May 25: The two-week skill development training on tailoring and plumbing under Border Area Development Programme (BADP) to enable the trainees to start their own business concluded here today.

Attending the valedictory function, Kurung Kumey Deputy Commissioner Mamata Riba suggested the trainees to utilize the skills gained appropriately as the programme is being launched to train youths, particularly of border areas, for their self-employment.

She advised them to start their business at home first which may be expanded to market areas after building their confidence.

District Planning Officer (Nodal Officer BADP) Dr. Joram Anu explained the usefulness of such training to run a profitable business in their own which will not only make them self-reliant but also supplement to family income.

Certificates of participation were given to all the participants by Manghi Welfare Society, training provider along with tools, kits and raw materials for practice at home.

Tailoring machine, Hacksaw blade and wrench etc were also provided to the best trainee/performer.

Trainees from Kurung Kumey and Kra Daadi districts attended the training which was organized by Manghi Welfare Society, Sangram and sponsored by Department of Skill Development and Employment Generation, Govt. Arunachal Pradesh.

ANYA calls for proper road construction

ITANAGAR, May 25: All Nyishi Youth Association (ANYA) has urged the PWD authorities to maintain quality while constructing roads in Capital city.

Giving a photographic evidence of poor quality of road construction, ANYA president Biri Kakum said that quality has not been maintained while building the road infrastructure in between the Jully Tinali and Jully village.

Condemning poor quality work and alleged inefficiency of the PWD, the ANYA further said instead of prescribed norms of 16-20 mm concrete works in construction of retaining walls and drains, it is being built with only 10 mm walls.

It also urged the local MLA to look into the road construction for maintaining quality works.

Meanwhile, ANYA drew the attention of the UD department towards garbage lying unattended in most of the sectors in Capital City. It appealed the department to maintain cleanliness and collect garbage properly.

DLDC on Yigikaum finalises consolidated schemes to prepare final DPR

AALO, May 25: A consolidated report with wide range of schemes finalized in the Gram Sabha for Sansad Aadarsh Gaon, Yigikaum was placed before the District Level Development Committee for onward submission to the government. The schemes were prepared based on findings and requirements for model village by various line departments.

Project Director Dege Ete asked those few departments which are yet to visit the village and submit their proposals. All schemes should be backed by estimates and DPR to the technical wings of the district, he said. He sought cooperation of the villagers and all line departments to complete the task in time to send the schemes to Govt. soon. DIPRO

Association question delay in construction

ITANAGAR, May 25: All Arunachal Pradesh Youth Welfare Association (AAPYWA) has questioned the authorities over the delay in the construction of Banderdewa-Chimpu highway roads and the compensations to be received by the land effected owners.

The sanctioned construction order of Banderdewa-Chimpu highway which was reportedly approved by the Govt of AP in 2013 has not been executed and the compensation for the damage is yet to be received by the owners.

AAPYWA on behalf of general public of Capital complex and state demanded the chief secretary to intervene into the matter and asks for the construction and the compensation to be released at the earliest to avoid any action against the concerned authority.

Org demands permanent DC office

ITANAGAR, May 25: Arunachal Pradesh Youth Welfare Association (APYWA) has demanded a permanent DC office building for the Capital.

The present DC office which is based at the office for the Directorate, Geology and Mining is said to be a difficult place to reach by the general public due to its narrow road and limitation of parking spots.

AAPYWA requests the chief secretary, to look into the matter and find a convenient location for a permanent DC office to be established.

Cancellation of LPC demanded

ITANAGAR, May 25: Upper Jumi Village Youth Welfare Association (UJVYWA), Kimin, has requested the Chief Secretary to take necessary step for cancellation of the land possession certificates (LPCs) issued against eight individuals at Upper Jumi village.

The Association in a representation to the Chief secretary alleged that the authority concerned had illegally issued LPCs in reserved forest area to the individuals by taking undue advantage of the Govt notification No LR-31/84/722 Dated Itanagar, the 19th June, 2010 without giving any opportunity for hearing. It further demanded action against those officers who were involved in issuance of alleged illegal LPCs.

Free computer training prog ends

ITANAGAR, May 25: The one-month basic computer training programme organized by the All Tagin Students’ Union (ATSU) was concluded successfully today. Altogether 102 youths participated in the free computer training.

After the completion of this programme, ATSU executive members, resource persons and trainees jointly conducted a social service in and around at Govt. Higher Secondary School, Daporijo under the theme “Swachh Bharat mission.”

Social service

ITANAGAR, May 25: A social service was jointly conducted by All Silsango Circle Youth Association (ASCYA), All Puyu Panchayat Youth Welfare Association (APPYWA) and All Pai Panchayat Youths Welfare Society (APPYWS) from Pilla to Silsango PWD road. The service was followed by a one hour mass at Nyopang Village headed by Chairman Taba Anyia. President ASCYA addressed issues regarding the road blockage by people, forest hunting, fishing within the circle and problems faced by the schools due to lack of resources. Around 105 members participated in the event.

Healing service organised

ITANAGAR, May 25: More than 1500 people attended the three day Pentecostal day celebration cum healing service which was organised at Jesus 2nd Coming Christian Prayer Centre, 6km here from May 22 to 24 last.

Founder president, New Generation Outreach Revival Assembly, Meghalaya, Reverend Dr Batkupar Dunai was the speaker during the two day service.

SFS College gets permanent affiliation to RGU

AALO, May 25: SFS College here established in 2007 has got affiliated permanently to Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) from the ensuing academic session 2015-16. The permanent affiliation to the college has been granted after a team of RGU led by Prof. DN Das, Dean, Life Science and Chairman of the inspection team, visited the college recently.

Permanent affiliation is an affirmation of the quality of higher education that SFS College has been offering to the students of West Siang district. DIPRO

AAPRDDEA’s memo

ITANAGAR, May 25: The All Arunachal Pradesh Rural Development Department Employees Association (AAPRDDEA) in a memorandum to rural development commissioner requested him not to extend the service tenure of T T Dagium as joint director (agri-allied) of the department.

Alleging that the authority concerned had illegally appointed Dagium, Horticulture Development Officer (HDO) as JD in rural development department, the Association also urged him to send him back to his parent department on or before July 30. It threatens to launch agitation if its demand is not looked into within given time.

DC bans sale of loose cigarette

ITANAGAR, May 25: While upholding the standing order banning smoking cigarette, bidi etc. in public places, District Magistrate Mige Kamki under Section 133 Cr.PC, prohibited the sale of loose cigarette, bidi, and other smoking items in shops, gumties or any other places within the Capital Complex.

Accordingly, the earlier order issued U/S 133 CrPC on February 24, 2015 banning sale of smoking items, like cigarettes, bidis within Capital Complex has been modified on advice of the state government following expiry of the same order, according to an official release.

News Impact

3 officers suspended, SE transferred over Wak electrocution

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, May 25: The state government has suspended three officers for the Wak electrocution deaths and transferred the SE concerned.

The actions has been initiated after a week when four people had met tragic death due to electrocution at Wak Village in West Siang district on May 19 last. The officials of the power department are namely Torik Dium, Executive Engineer (Aalo Division), Puluk Gadi, Assistant Engineer and Marjum Ete, Junior Engineer, while transfer order to Superintendent Engineer (Aalo Division) Modam Jini was given for alleged gross negligence of their respective duties leading to the death of four innocent people.

Taking serious note on negligence of duty after Wak electrocution tragic incident, the state government is serious in cleansing up the erring personnels of entire Aalo Division, this was disclosed by Liromoba MLA Nyamar Karbak while interacting with aggrieved relatives at an emergency public meeting at Bene Village over the incident on Sunday evening. The latest crack down on erring officers (allegedly responsible for death of four people) may give a glimmer of hope to get justice for their loved ones and may pacify the angry family members.

Liromoba MLA cum Chairman Arunachal Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (APBOCWWB) Nyamar Karbak rushed to spot to take stock of situation on Sunday. Karbak assigned by Chief Minister Nabam Tuki interacted with each of the victim family members at Wak and Bene Villages. He was accompanied by DC West Siang Pige Ligu, SP Mari Riba, Chief Engineer Power (Central Zone) Takar Mara and ZPM Kamba Gedo Kato. Addressing the meeting at Bene village, Liromoba MLA informed the aggrieved relatives that, “Entire Arunachal is deeply shocked of the tragic incident and firmly stands with you”. He further added that Chief Minister and Power Minister are taking a very serious view over the unfortunate incident and justice will be given to victims. However, he appealed to the angry relatives specially the youth to maintain peace and tranquility while adding that this is not time for resorting to violence rather to re-introspect so that such tragic incident should not happen again.

Responding to a representation submitted by Bene-Wak Action Committee, in which the committee demanded for enhancement of Rs 10 lakh each for the aggrived family mmebers, MLA said that he will appraise the government to enhance the ex-gratia amount and jobs for victims’ family members. He also assured that all possible help to victim’s families from the state government will be extended. He personally announced Rs 4 lakhs for the family members of the dead.

However, on vandalization of Kamba power station by an angry mob on 21 May 2015 following the incident, Karbak strongly condemned the incident saying that it gives wrong message to the society. SP Aalo, Mari Riba assured the family members that accused will be rearrested soon. Chief Engineer Power Takar Mara in his address termed the incident unfortunate and said that department should learn a great lesson from it. Earlier, Bene Wak Action Committee termed the incident as deliberate murder by the power department. “Exemplary punishment should be given to all the officers, the committee demanded. It also threatened to disrupt the Aalo-Kamba 11 KV line which passes through Bene and Wak villages if their demands are not fulfilled. On the sidelines of the meeting, All Aalo Youth Association has submitted a representation to Chief Engineer Power(Central Zone) demanding for improving the electrification and pole erection system in Aalo town. It said that many poles and transformers are on the verge of collapse which could lead to fatal incidents like Wak. The association demanded for early upgradation of the entire system.

Centre orders probe into embezzlement of funds in Arunachal

ITANAGAR, May 25: The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh has ordered probe into allegations of embezzlement, misappropriation, corruption and siphoning of government funds to the tune of over Rs.900 crore in Arunachal Pradesh through various Centrally Sponsored Schemes related to Non-Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) and North-Eastern Council (NEC).

Dr Jitendra Singh took this decision in response to a representation submitted by 11 MLAs from Arunachal Pradesh who alleged that the State Government of Arunachal Pradesh was responsible for misuse and misappropriation of Government of India funds released against projects sanctioned during 2011-12 to 2014-15.

Dr Jitendra Singh directed Secretary, Ministry of Development of North-Eastern Region (DoNER) to immediately collect all the relevant information related to these projects and institute an inquiry into the status and progress of these projects. After compilation of the details and examination of the issues raised by the MLAs, comments may be sought from the State Government before deciding further course of action.

The MLAs who signed the complaint included Tamiyo Taga, Leader of Opposition in Arunachal Pradesh State Legislative Assembly, Japu Deru, Deputy Leader of Opposition, Tage Taki, Chief Whip, BJP Legislative Party, Er.Tumke Bagra, Tamar Murtem, Dr Mohesh Chai, Laisam Simai, Tesam Pongte, Kaling Moyong, Kento Rina, and Olom Panyang. They alleged that the present State Government had grossly misused and siphoned central funds due to which majority of projects have not been completed and are behind schedule. They further alleged that the funds had been whimsically diverted and used under Non-Plan Head. This was the reason why the State Government was unable to furnish ‘Utilization Certificates’ against the funds released under the Scheme.

The MLAs requested for special audit and inquiry into misuse of Central Government funds in response to which Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh directed the DoNER Ministry officials to immediately take cognizance of the complaints, furnish all the details and fix accountability. He also expressed concern over the fact that the State Government had failed to release the matching State’s share either in full or in part as a result of which as many as 15 projects are running behind schedule and Utilization Certificates were pending in 20 cases. (PIB)

Attacked by a mob, APP personnel awaits justice

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, May 25: Three Arunachalee police personnel received grievous injury when they were attacked by a mob at Joypur under Tinsukia district. The incident took place on 1st of May and victimised policemen are still awaiting justice.

As per the report, team of Khonsa police led by Sub-Inspector Benji Saroh along with ASI Y Yonggam, constable P Bharali and constable L Bangyang were returning to Khonsa after carrying out important task related to recent Deomali extortion incident when they were attacked.

Around 9.45 PM when they reached Joypur Higher Secondary School area, they saw three bikes on the highway blocking the road. There were six boys and even after repeated blowing of horn, they refused to make way. In the nearby school ground, Bihu celebration was going on. When the boys refused to move, SI Sorah along with constable P Bharali who is a native of Assam got down from the vehicle and requested them to make way. After seeing Arunachal police team three boys ran away, but the remaining three who were allegedly in inebriated condition started bullying and abusing them. Even though the police tried to calm down the boys, they started assaulting constable Bharali without any provocation. As self defense, Bharali hit one of the boys. After that the boys made hue and cry, due to which the local public joined them. Despite repeated pleas from SI Saroh to resolve the matter, the crowd went out of control and started physically assaulting the police team. They also snatched away service revolver of SI Saroh.

Keeping in mind the sensitivity of Assam-Arunachal conflict, the police team did not resort to firing. While ASI Yonngam who was in civil dress managed to escape, the remaining three namely SI Benji Sorah along with constables P Bharali and L Bangyang received life threatening injurious. They are still undergoing treatment in various hospitals of Dibrugarh. Even though an FIR was lodged at Joypur police station by the victims till now no action has been taken by Assam police.

The matter has been reported to higher authorities of Arunachal police through DIG Eastern Range Apur Bitin.

Meanwhile, Taken Saroh, father of the sub-inspector Benji Sorah has questioned the delay in arresting those involved in the brutal assault of police personnel.

“Why have there been no arrests even though FIR was lodged 23 days ago? The authority concerned is also unable to trace out his service gun with live ammunitions. Why the Officer-in-Charge of Jaipur Police Station where the complaint has been lodged is taking the case very casually despite repeated appeal from the victim himself and the family? So far in my life I have heard of many cases regarding police-public conflict but this is my first experience where an officer on duty has been mercilessly beaten up, uniform torn and service gun snatched by public. I am in fact deeply pained and ashamed of what had been done to my son. But what I perceived is that the bruises of my son will somehow recover sooner or later but what about the slap on the honor of state’s home department? What about the humiliation meted to dignity of police department of the state,” said Taken Sorah. He also questioned lackadaisical attitude of Longding Superintendent of Police who was SP in-charge of Tirap during the time of incident. Further family members of victims have appealed to concerned department to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on this matter or the case be investigated by an officer, not below the rank of a DSP. They have also appealed home department to transfer this case to Khonsa Police Station at the earliest for administrative convenience as well as smooth conduct of investigation.

Minister calls for effective development initiatives for Longding district

ITANAGAR, May 25: Science & Technology and Civil Aviation Minister Thangwang Wangham today gave stress on the effective development initiatives to bring Longding district at par with other developed districts of the state.

Addressing the maiden meeting of the heads of departments of the district convened by him at the state capital here to chalk out the annual action plan 2015-16 and to discuss on the Vision document 2030 for the district, he also called for formulation of proper plan and strategy for sustainable development and betterment of the local inhabitants.

He said the district being one of the most new districts of the state, is confronted with many challenges including difficult geographical terrain, climatic condition and the insurgency problem. The minister further stressed on the need of addressing the some existing problems like degrading education standard, water scarcity, irregular power supply, law and order, drug abuse to secure the future of the district.

Seeking support and cooperation of all present, the minister called for better coordination among the all line departments to work for development and asked them to prepare a constructive annual action plan and vision document for the district.

Gabriel D. Wangsu, Chairman State Council for Science & Technology, who is also the MLA Kanubari, informed that with the shifting of Planning Commission to Niti Aayog, a new system in planning process is in place. He stressed that with the new system and practice, planning modalities should be framed with realistic approach to bring sustainable development in the area.

Wangsu said that holistic and visionary approach is the need of the hour for meaningful achievement in the district in all fronts.

In his address, Pongchou-Wakka MLA, Honchun Ngandam called for formulation of proper policies and programme for welfare of masses in every sector like education, social and economic development. “We should go together towards achieving our goal and make the people see the light of development,” he said.

The officers presented their inputs and discussed threadbare on the problems of their respective departments to facilitate preparation of the Annual Action Plan 2015-16 and Vision document 2030 for Longding district.

Among others, Longding DC Tope Bam, ZPC Phejon Wangsa and the heads of departments attended the meeting. DIPR

Old blind couple given new lease of life

ITANAGAR, May 25: An old Mishmi couple of Thowong in Wakro got a new lease on life after having cataract surgery due to the help and support extended by Lohit Deputy Commissioner and Wakro based NGO Anu Shiksha Seva Trust (ASSET).

The poverty stricken couple, namely Dautinglu (Jumai) and Mamanso Sisong were living with cataract blindness since last 12 years as they have no one to look after them. They survived all those years on little food offerings that came occasionally from members of the community.

On hearing the plight of the couple, Lohit Deputy Commissioner Dr BM Mishra visited the couple on March 13 this year and offered them some financial assistance.

Encouraged by the DC’s gesture, the Wakro based NGO decided to provide them health care under “Maiyya Shanta Scheme” and shifted them from Thowong to Anugrah in Wakro.

However, it was one Brij Mohan Sharma from Jorhat, who arranged for the eye treatment in Jorhat Lions Eye Hospital.

Dr Pulkesh Bhagwati conducted the eye operation successfully upon both the elderly Mishmi couple. The hospital management and staff provided a very friendly environment to the patients under their care.

All from Wakro were very touched by the care and support rendered by everyone in the Jorhat Eye Hospital beyond the call of duty.

Members of the NGO also highly praised Dr Mishra, Dr Rama Tewari and Deepak Sharma for their financial contributions. They also thanked Dakto Riba, EAC and Joyonto Hazarika for the support rendered.

“Small little gesture by leaders makes big difference in public life,” opined Dr. Mishra after seeing the happily couple back home in Thowong.

Governor appreciates role of civil society; given emotional farewell

ITANAGAR, May 25: Outgoing Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Nirbhay Sharma today appreciated the civil society in the state for engaging with the government to improve governance.

"The state is indeed maturing and evolving both politically and socially. It is a good omen and augurs well for a vibrant society," he said in his message to the people before leaving for Mizoram.

"My heart fills with gratitude each time I remember the deep love and affection I have received from each one of you," he said recalling his association with the state as very sacred and fulfilling.

"It is my firm belief that this beautiful and resourceful state of our country can be developed into a model state," the governor said.

Being the head of a geo-strategically most significant state of India is a matter of great pride and privilege, he said.

"Development of border areas and instilling a sense of security amongst the population has always been on my agenda, Sharma added.

The Governor appealed to the youth to utilize their energy in constructive purposes instead of indulging in destructive and unhealthy practices.

“I am concerned about the drug menace and its adverse impact on the society. Our women can play a crucial role in this direction,” he said, and appealed to the elders of the society to guide the ‘Generation Next’ towards right path with responsibility.

Conveying his good wishes to Governor designate, Sharma said, “I am very happy to note that my successor J.P. Rajkhowa is not only an able administrator but also a renowned scholar and thinker with a deep understanding of the region. I am certain the State will continue to flourish and scale even greater heights during his tenure and the people of the state will shower him with the same love and affection that has been showered on us”.

Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, his cabinet colleagues, Speaker of State Legislative Assembly Nabam Rebia, senior officers of the State Government and many well-wishers turned up at Raj Bhawan Helipad to see off the outgoing Governor and his wife Jyotsna Sharma.

Guard of Honour by Arunachal Pradesh Police commanded by Deputy Superintendent of Police Jummar Basar was presented to him on the occasion.

Earlier in the morning, officers and staff of Governor’s Secretariat and Raj Bhawan led by Secretary to Governor Shurbir Singh bade an emotional farewell to the Governor and the First lady.

As a mark of respect and honour, the officers and staff pulled a decorated jeep carrying the Governor and First Lady from Raj Bhawan to Helipad. Cultural troupes from various tribes lined up both sides of road and showered flower petals on the path. PRO to Raj Bhawan

Union reiterates demands on roads and education

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, May 25: The Longding District Students Union (LDSU) has expressed dissatisfaction over the lackadaisical attitude of state government towards the demand placed by them. Addressing press persons today at Arunachal Press Club, the representatives of Longding District Students Union threatened to resort to mass democratic movement against the government if the government failed to react within next thirty days.

LDSU is demanding immediate renovation of Longding-Kanubari-Bimalapur road (LB Road), resuming of Trans- Arunachal Highway from Longding to Khonsa via Tissa town and immediate posting of adequate teachers in all the government schools of Longding district and provision for direct electricity supply to Longding district from Deomali.

Addressing the media persons President LDSU,Manlem Wangsu lamented that despite repeated pleas and peaceful democratic movement till date no positive responses has been made. He further informed that ‘Longding-Kanubari-Bimalapur road (LB Road)’ is the life line of the Longding district but unfortunately since 1970 it has remained a dilapidated road.

Stating that, Wangsu also alleged that, in the year 2004-2005 NABARD had funded Rs 23 crore against the Public Work Department as executing agency under RIDF scheme for the same road to build it to a metalled one but till date not even 40% of the road has been completed. He also claimed that under Thirteen Finance Commission Government of Arunachal Pradesh has allotted Rs 2 crore for maintenance but nothing was done on the ground. Expressing resentment over the closing down of the construction of TAH road from Longding to Lohthong, Wangsu also urged the concerned authority to make proper enquiry against the executing agencies and its resumption for the early completion of the project.

While speaking on the poor education sector, Vigilance Secretary-LDSU, Donwang Wangnaw informed that most of the government schools in Longding district are running without adequate teachers. ‘Though government has assured to rationalise the teachers by posting them in different districts, but unfortunately Longding district has remained isolated, ‘he said while informing that from this academic session students will face more problems due to shortage of teachers. ‘So we urge the state government to post teachers as soon as possible in the District’ added Wangnaw.

Rare but our lovely mithun: Significance

[ Kago Gambo ]

With unique cultural heritage Arunachal Pradesh is home to about 20 major colorful tribes with over 110 small and sub tribes. With the area of 83,743 sq.km, she borders with Bhutan for 160 kilometers to the west, Myanmar for 440 kilometers to the east, Nagaland and Assam in the south and with China (and Tibet) for long 1,080 kilometers to the north and northeast with the McMahon line somehow (this word put because of Chinese dispute) defining the international boundary.

The Mithun

The mithun, which is locally called subuh, is scientifically known as Bos Frontalis and belongs to Bibovine species. The Tani people1 of Arunachal Pradesh have the rich mythological stories that tell us how the mithuns are closely related to the human being and became the part of our civilization; because of which the mithuns are given highest status and value. The Mithun is a rare (probably endangered) species of the earth which is only found in Arunachal Pradesh and very few in adjoining places, viz., Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Bhutan; where (Arunachal Pradesh) the mithuns2 have the highest position on barter table equivalent to the price of the gold from time immemorial.

The mithun which is reared in semi-wild condition feeds on fodders and salts as its forage; craves for salts. The mithuns are let-loose and allowed to graze freely at their own in the deep forests where they aggregate into small herds and browse about in the forests for weeks or months together without any attendant. The mithun owner often pays visits (at least weekly or monthly) to their respective mithuns with the package of salts and feed them (in the forest itself) to retain the link between themselves (owners) and their mithuns. By such often visits with salt packages, the mithuns have the instinct to recognize their respective owners through their voice, smell or even perhaps by appearance. On the other hand, the mithun owners also identifies their respective mithuns based on color, ear notching (marked during the calf-hood) and by the structure of horns, etc.

Names of colors of the mithun are such as (in Apatani) Yata, Yabya, Yabing, Yau, Yajo, Yakhe, Tau, Tata, Tabing, Takeh, Tapuh, Dimping, Mojo, Gyalo, Pua, Moi, Koping, Dillang, etc. and the mithun owners belonging to different clans/different areas has different pattern of marking the ears of the mithun. A mithun is given name by its color which is permanent; this name is given when the mithun starts developing its skin color. A female mithun has the capacity to bear a baby annually (akin to human reproductive cycle capacity) at her age of 3 years onwards. Very often because of wrong markings and false identification mithun dispute takes place. In-fact, one of the most frequent disputes in the tribal society happens to be mithun dispute, matrimonial/women and land/property disputes.

Traditionally, each mithun owned has a caretaker appointed called dulu kanii. The dulu kanii is given certain award in form of mithun. He has certain important responsibilities. Besides normal activities of caretaking, the caretaker has to, for instance, locate the mithun if it dies and inform the same to the owner for arranging to fetch the meat of the dead mithun home. If the mithun dies and its dead body is not serviceable for meat, then at-least he has to carry its horns to the village and show and give them to the owner as proof.

In accordance with tradition, though dulu kanii is usually appointed but this is not compulsory or necessary either. Owner may choose to care-take himself for which there may be various reasons like reliable dulu kanii may not be easily available and dulu kanii chosen may not be willing if approached. Also it is reported that some who acted as dulu kani had bad lucks in the sense that the mithun/s very often died care-taken under him. In such case either owner may not engage him or that person himself may tell the matter and refuse the offer of the employment as dulu kanii.

Mithun and its significance

The mithun is essential part of the religious festivals and dispute settlements in the society (amongst the persons and clans) of Arunachal Pradesh. It is precious, lovable and cultural animal of Arunachal Pradesh; once which enjoyed its state animal status. Where an indigenous faith (animism), Donyi-Poloism (Donyi means the Sun and Polo, the moon) is one of the few basic religions in the state, the mithun is believed to be true representative of the Sun. This belief is so firmly rooted amongst the Tani tribes, viz., Adi, Nyishi, Tagin, Mishmi, Apatani and Galo that in case of disputes between two persons or clans, the mithun is only choice for its settlement. In this, usually one mithun from each person or clan is sacrificed and then, the meat share is distributed to all the villagers. In due course, the dispute gets settled and friendship develops between the disputants (after the mithun sacrifice).

Lyallo (Tomb): Mithun killed for the dead as companion in another world and its horns as trophy displayed on the graveyard

As per their traditional belief system the mithuns are sacrificed in religious ceremonies and rituals to offer to the (Supernatural) Gods and Goddesses (the savior of human beings). And in return, the Savior of human beings-cum-the Creator of this earth is pleased enough to increase the productivity of the crops and livestock, and save human race from unnatural catastrophes like famine, epidemic and diseases, etc. Significant in the socio-cultural and religious life of the Tani tribes (within the context of rich cultural heritage and traditions); the mithun is believed to be (the) symbolic representative of peace and communal harmony; it being the reason Adi tribe observe “Solung festival” annually to commemorate the birth and arrival of the mithun on this earth.

Harsh treatment to Mithun

Despite the fact that Arunachal Pradesh is the major mithun habitation zone, the state has got no any working scientific projects and institution for the mithun whereas Nagaland has the reputed institution of National Research Centre on Mithun which was established in June 1998 with the main objectives of conservation and genetic improvement of the Mithun germ plasma and development of Mithun nutrition, management and health. Our mithuns are roaming in the jungle under traditional and primitive method of rearing; which necessitates application of technology and best scientific management in its rearing.

Many mithuns are suffering and dying unreported in the jungle every year being affected by the common diseases like FMD and Hemorrhagic septicemia and maximum of the animal populace remains unvaccinated against the same. Similarly, many bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic diseases affect the mithun but most of them are left to suffer and die. All these happen due to lack of veterinary facilities and proper management system and as a result the poor farmers suffer heavy losses thereby indirectly affecting the state economy.

A recent but disturbing phenomenon (in-fact a social nuisance) is mithun theft using modern technique. A mithun is simply and easily put up on the Tata mobile vehicle, securely tie it there, lift and transport it to some other distant place, slaughter and sell its meats in the market which is as high as Rupees four hundred per kg at the current market rate. This is obviously practiced by bad elements in the society; requiring strong anti-measures. However, there exist mithun owner and dulu kanii associations at all areas which put a check to such activities to certain extent. If such thieve is caught red-handed or come to known/reported with proof, then the culprit is heavily fined.

The mithun suffers, dies and gets killed mercilessly but there are hardly few people who really have respect for this rare animal. Many people kill the mithuns mercilessly in ceremonies and social functions just to show off their powers and influence in the society and this practice is especially seen with rich and so-called educated people. There are some who slaughter 50-60 numbers of mithuns in a marriage ceremony of their children. But in reality, no such rule exists in Tani tribe that 50-60 mithuns should be slaughtered in a marriage ceremony. This is a new kind of trend set by extra earnings group of people who are actually misleading the younger generation and are diluting the culture.

To Conclude

The mithuns are indiscriminately and mercilessly killed in marriage parties, election-victory celebrations, on every possible occasion, on one pretext or the other and is openly slaughtered and sold as meat in the market as if it was a hot cake. If this trend of uncontrolled and merciless killing continues, than one day this rare animal may be wiped out from this earth. But there is no one to control these unnecessary slaughtering of our innocent mithun. Interestingly there is no voice from the self proclaimed President and Secretary of so many self framed welfare society and elite society.

Lastly but not the least, the pride of Arunachal society, the mithun needs to be assumed as holy animal and given due respect because it is intricately related to the mythology and religious activities of the six major tribes and their sufferings need to be minimized by improving and expanding the veterinary infrastructure and services and stopping the merciless, indiscriminate and inhumane slaughtering.

Meanwhile, crux of the matter is that, “unemployment is out of proportion in Arunachal Pradesh as in elsewhere. In this backdrop, the mithun rearing or serving as dulu kanii can be a good alternative source of self-employment for the unemployed youths which needs to be understood and encouraged by all concerned”.

NOTES

1 The Tani people/the Tani Tribes; also referred to as Abo-Tani tribes/group of tribes consist of six major tribes, viz., Adi, Apatani, Nyishi, Tagin, Galo and Mishmi. Here Abo means father/forefather and Tani a proper name and Abo-Tani tribes/group of tribes is known as such because these six tribes believe themselves as descendants of Abo-Tani whom they consider as their earliest (mythical) known forefather.

2 Cost of one grown-up mithun is up-to rupees seventy thousands only at the current market price.

3 A unique tradition in which the litigants undertook destruction of their own respective wealth including mithun competitively to morally humiliate an adversary; which was formerly prevalent amongst the Apatanis but ultimately banned by the Apatani Youth Association around 1973.

REFERENCES

(Late) Dibo, Tapi, Kani, Takhe, Kula, Narang, Ranko, Tapi and others (2012-15). Personal Interviews, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh.

Garam, Gyamnya Baki (9 February, 2013), Mithun needs love, care and respect (Itanagar: The Arunachal Times).

Heli, Taba (April, 1994), Mithun: Pride of Arunachal Pradesh (Itanagar: Echo of ARUNACHAL).

(The contributor is Assistant Professor in Political Science. Dera Natung Govt College)

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---- Editorial ----

End the ugly battle

In a major victory for AAP government, the Delhi high court on Monday ruled that Delhi government's anti-corruption branch (ACB) has the jurisdiction to arrest policemen for wrong doing. While dismissing bail application of a head constable who was arrested by the ACB in a corruption case, Justice Vipin Sanghi disallowed bail application saying his submission that the anti-corruption branch (ACB) of the government of national capital territory Delhi (GNCTD) does not have the competence or jurisdiction to act on the complaint of the complainant is rejected.

Earlier, the home ministry in a notification had barred the ACB from registering any case against officers and political functionaries of the central government. Delhi police is under the direct control of ministry of home affairs. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had strongly opposed the notification of MHA. AAP government has called an emergency session of the Delhi assembly beginning on Tuesday to discuss the notification. It has also indicated of taking legal recourse on the issue. Centre should take cue from high court order and stop interfering in the state matter. Using office of Lieutenant Governor to take on a popularly elected government does not augur well for the federal structure of nation. Its time both Delhi as well as central government end this ugly battle. They should work together for the betterment of the people of Delhi.

___________________

---- Readers Forum ----

Assam Police and extortion

Dear Editor,

Perhaps no state in the whole of Indian Union is as unsafe as the state of Assam in regards to extortion of commuters by police in roads & highways.

Assam Police for Arunachalees is synonymous as haftawales or pocket money collectors. These red or kaki topi policemen lay traps for non Assam registered vehicles all through the lengths & breaths of roads & highways passing through Assam like most experienced predators.

As soon as their preys are trapped, they mercilessly squeeze till the last drop, applying all available tactics & tricks.

Generally people wish for a safe & comfortable journey but in case of journeys via Assam, there are prayers not to come across any Assam police during the travelling.

This is because of decades of unending bitter experiences of ransoms & extortions by the Assam Police.

Kahfa Bengia of PPA has of late raised a pertinent question on such issue which partially ventilated the pressing aspirations of common masses of the region.

I pray to Almighty God to shower every courage to HCM AP to take up the matter with his Assam counterpart & the Hon’ble MPs of AP to raise the ever important issue in Parliament in immediate future so that a sense of responsiveness could prevail in the mindsets of Assam Police.

Yours,

Bengia Natung,

Naharlagun

Coal mafia

Dear Editor,

Nowadays a very dangerous trend is being observed that Coal excavated illegally from Kharsang coal depot is supplied through Bordumsa during night time to nearby coke plants, Tea factories, Brick Plants of Assam, despite a ban in coal extraction. It’s surprising to see that all the stake holders including General Administration, Police Department of Kharsang, Bordumsa, and Mahadevpur are turning blind eye to such rampant theft of revenue by Coal Mafia.

I would like to appeal our respected Deputy Commissioner of Changlang Chanchal Yadav to kindly suspend all the officers involved. We would like to ask SP Changlang what he is doing when his own officers are giving free hand to coal Mafia.

I would like to appeal to Media organisation from Assam which often report regarding border problems that they also report about the coal theft of Arunachal Pradesh which is being sold at Assam by coal mafia.

Yours,

Anonymous

Bordumsa

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----Editor