May 27
2016
Waii stress for quality roads under PMGSY
ITANAGAR, May 26: Minister, RWD, Kumar Waii has stressed for construction of quality road to provide connectivity in remote and far flung areas under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).
Waii was speaking at the two days review meeting which concluded on May 24. The Minister directed all the field functionaries to dedicatedly devote for perfect construction of rural roads as per the guidelines and specifications prescribed under this flagship programme of Govt. of India.
After thoroughly reviewing the sick projects, the Minister fixed the deadlines for completion of 26 projects. He also called for strict monitoring and compliance of all quality control parameters. Waii stated that the stage-II construction wherever the formations are fully stabilized should be taken up to protect the formation and make the road worthy for all weather. He added that identification of the habitations with population upto hundred people are also to be done for project formulation on notification by the Govt. of India.
Research and development project in construction with the new techniques identified by the Ministry of Rural Development also figured in the meeting. The state has achieved connectivity of around fifty percent and perspective plan is to be prepared for faster connectivity of eligible habitations under PMGSY.
Speaking in the meeting, Parliamentary Secretary, Jambey Tashi emphasized the need for periodical maintenance of roads for regular vehicular traffic and of suspension bridges and porter tracks. He also suggested for a comprehensive plan for connectivity through various state and central programme by each division.
Secretary, RWD, T.H. Tayung emphasised on the importance of the State Annual Development Agenda on rural roads, soil and water conservation, buildings, suspension bridges and porter track and the time line with SWOT analysis. He further emphasized on timely submission of reports, returns, action taken report, supervision of schemes and updating of data in the electronic format on website.
The Chief Engineers of Western & Eastern Zone, Chief Executive Officer, ARRDA and Director, Soil & Water Conservation presented a comprehensive overview of various activities on rural infrastructure, soil & water conservation and rural road connectivity in the state. The maintenance policy formulated by the department, as per directives of the Govt. of India for proper maintenance strategy with adequate allocation of fund was also discussed.
The State Quality Coordinator made a detailed presentation on quality issues for each ongoing road and action taken reports were discussed.
Resident Technical Advisor, K.C. Dhimole also attended the meeting and provided important inputs for improving the design, overall quality and sustainability of the projects.
Meeting on CSS programme held
PANGIN, May 26: A co-ordination meeting was held under the chairmanship of Siang, Deputy Commissioner, Rahul Singh in connection with CSS programme of DRDA Siang District.
The DC said that Aadhar card seeding should be taken up by all CO/BDO’s by engaging their respective staffs with logistic support from DRDA and DPDO. House to house survey should be taken up and Aadhar card number be entered in Job Card to avoid duplicity in the system. The door to door visit should be completed by June 10 without delay as per dateline fixed by the government.
The DC also called routing all MGNREGA works of the district from Gram Panchyats by conducting Gram Sabha in respective segment for selection of schemes. He emphasized that minutes of Gram Sabha and photographs is required in estimate and also photographs of worksite of before, during and after along with GPS reading is mandatory to avoid duplication.
All BDOs were directed to maintain a register indicting name of scheme, date of commencement work and status report of work so that the schemes can be properly monitored. The DC also appealed the PRI members to achieve hundred percent free open defecation district under Pradhan Mantri Swatch Bharat Mission executed by PHED within 6 months by motivating villagers for use of toilet.
Siang DRDA Project Director, T. Jonnom elaborated on scope of CSS programme under DRDA Pangin and asked the BDOs for proper implementation of scheme and informed the tentative programme of seeding Aadhar Card Number into MGNREGA.
ZPC Opung Jerang called on the officers to maintain cordial relations with PRI members for successful implementation of all developmental works including MGNREGA.
TA (RE), G. Ado briefed on focus area and its importance and appealed BDPs and EO (RE) to take concrete step for timely completion of works for creation of durable asset.
The meeting was attended by the BDO’s, ZPC and ZPM’s of Siang District. DIPRO
‘Krishi Sammelan’ at Old Deka
Correspondent
RUKSIN, May 26: The College of Horticulture and Forestry (CHF), Pasighat in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), East Siang organised a ‘Krishi Sammellan’ cum awareness programme on Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights at Old Deka village under Nari block in East Siang on Wednesday.
Attending the programme, Nari-Koyu MLA, Kento Rina stressed on conservation of locally available Plant for development of new plant varieties, developing location specific technologies to meet out the need of local farmers. He also shared his views on flagship programme of the Central government like Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. He suggested the KVK and CHF scientists to organize more such programmes in the district for creation of awareness among progressive farmers of the district. The MLA also distributed seeds of high yielding rice variety CAU R-1 to progressive farmers of the block.
Dr B N Hazarika of CHF Pasighat appraised the farmers about achievements made by CHF, Pasighat for the welfare of farmers.
Speaking on “Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmer’s Rights”, Dr. Mukul Srivastava elaborated on the rules and regulations pertaining to protection of local varieties and suggested the farmers to adopt improved cultivation techniques, while Dr. Mahesh Pathak informed that KVK was promoting farmer friendly technologies and imparting training to the farmers on phase-wise manner.
During the farmers-scientists interaction programme, Mikke Riba, a progressive farmer of Old Deka village highlighted the scenario of plant genetic material available and farming systems prevalent in the block and improved farming practices adopted by the farmers. Altogether, 120 progressive farmers from Old Deka, New Deka, Tojo, Potte, Palm and Telam villages of Nari-Koyu block of East Siang district attended the programme. Scientists from KVK and CHF also interacted with farmers and shared their views on questions raised by the progressive farmers.
Among others, Old-Deka Head Gaon Bura, Komba Riba and Anchal Samity Member, Irem Riba also spoke on the occasion.
Governor mourns accident deaths
ITANAGAR, May 26: Governor of Arunachal Pradesh JP Rajkhowa has expressed shock and deeply mourned the loss of precious lives in the Tata magic accident on NH 415 near Karmajuli Bridge, Nirjuli on Wednesday.
The Governor also conveyed his best wishes for the quick recovery of those who were injured in the unfortunate accident.
Meanwhile, the officers and staffs of the Directorate of Health Services & Medical Education expressing sadness on the demise of Staff Nurse Yalop Rome have offered condolences to the bereaved family members. The condolence message stated that Late Rome was a humble and soft spoken human being and a sincere nurse.
Awareness campaign on flagship schemes at Nirjuli
NAHARLAGUN, May 26: An awareness campaign under ‘Special Outreach Programme’ on flagship programmes was organised on Thursday at Nikum Niya Hall, Nirjuli.
Besides the resource persons, artistes of Song and Drama Division of DFP from Guwahati and Tezpur, also performed skits/ plays to spread message on the importance of educating the Girl Child to make her an empowered citizen through Beti Padhao, Beti Bachao campaign, on various health care schemes like Janani Suraksha Yojana, PM Mudra Yojana, Swacch Bharat Abhiyan and various other rural development and social security schemes.
Resource person, Inspector, Directorate of Postal Services, M.L.Talukdar urged all to avail the benefits under the Sukanya Samriddhi Account for a secure future of the daughters as part of Beti Bachao–Beti Padhao campaign and said that the account in the name of two girl child per family can be opened in the post office; with minimum investment of Rs. 1000 and maximum investment of Rs. 1, 50000 can be made per financial year till 14 years. Partial withdrawal upto fifty percent of the balance at the end of the preceding financial year can be taken when the accountholder attains the age of 18 years.
He also informed on various schemes implemented by the department of Posts like Atal Pension Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, PM Suraksha Bima Yojana etc and asked to contact the Post office for availing these schemes.
Resource person from department of Women and Child Development, CDPO, Kago Lod Asha informed on SABLA scheme for school dropout adolescent girls. The CDPO further informed that special focus has been given by GoI to boost the sex ratio of the girls and hundred gender critical districts under ‘Beti Bachao–Beti Padhao Campaign have been identified in the country and Dibang Valley district of the state with sex ratio of 889:1000 sex ration has been identified for intervention in this area.
Earlier addressing the function, DC Capital Complex, Sandeep Kr. Singh requested the Directorate of Field Publicity to design their campaigns in the state, keeping in mind the ground realities and how to fulfill the requirements and issues through the Government Schemes. Health, hygiene, sanitation and child marriage are some of the vital areas, where he called upon the DFP to look into in their various campaigns. He said that DFP has a vital role in creating awareness and reaching out in the rural and interior areas, for the people of the state to avail the benefits of the various schemes of the Government of India.
Councillor Tarh Nachung in his address also expressed happiness with such awareness campaigns to highlight on Central govts Policies and Programmes.
DC Capital, Sandeep Kumar Singh along with Councillor Tarh Nachung released the publicity materials on various central flagship programmes and welfare schemes.
Director, DFP, Arunachal Pradesh region, Dr. H.R. Keshavamurthy informed that 200 such outreach programmes beginning from Thursday will be organised in the country to mark the second anniversary of the Central Government, to popularize the GoI Schemes to reach to the targeted people, particularly the poor, youth, women and farmers.
A total of 21 crore new accounts have been opened till now under Under Dhan Jan Yojana, he informed.
Among others, ZPM Techi Tolu, ASM, Nabam Lama, Post Master, Itanagar, D.K. Deori were present in the function.
The awareness campaign was organised by the Ziro Unit of Arunachal Pradesh under Directorate of Field Publicity, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Govt. of India. DIPRO
GM inspects Bomdila STS
ITANAGAR, May 26: Taking cue from Chief Minister Kalikho Pul’s noble concept, APST General Manager Abu Tayeng made unannounced inspections of Bomdila State Transport Station (STS) to take the stock of situation on Thursday. During the inspection, APST GM verified revenue returns and stock position of essential items and also discussed in details regarding over-aged buses, competition from private bus and sumo operators. Interacting with the staff, Tayeng assured to place few new buses on economic routes shortly.
The survey of possible routes and their feasibilities for introduction of Sumo services were also undertaken during the visit. Appreciating ASS and other staff for keeping the station clean, he urged the staff to work with full dedication and sincerity to provide better service to the people.
Lead by example, says DC
PASIGHAT, May 26: Teachers are responsible for shaping futures of millions of youths and therefore they should demonstrate fair and moral actions in schools. They should do their duty with a missionary zeal and dedication, stated the East Siang Deputy Commissioner Isha Khosla while chairing a coordination meeting on Thursday with principals and headmasters at the DC's conference hall.
The government is making all out efforts to make sure that best education infrastructure is available and adequate staffs are posted in schools, stated the DC. While instructing for judicious utilization of government funds, Khosla informed that fund for maintenance and infrastructure development would directly be transferred to SMDC (School Management Development Committee) so that transparency is maintained and real development come up. Principals & headmasters should prioritize their requirements and issue “Utilization Certificates” only after satisfactory completion of works. She also said that stipend would be transferred to individual bank account of students, seeding with AADHAR card.
DC further directed the principals and headmasters to recommend Child Care Leave (CCL) only when there is alternative arrangement.
She cautioned that stern action would be initiated against absentee teachers and further advised them to dedicate themselves for the betterment of the students in particular and the society as a whole. Administration will install biometric attendance machines in four schools in first phase to curb absenteeism, informed the DC.
Earlier, the DDSE Obuk Panor informed that the actual motive of the coordination meeting was to improve the education standard. He asked to implement RTE properly in schools and to bring results/performance reports of the students in every coordination meeting.
All the principals and headmasters submitted a report on development and shortcomings of their respective schools. ADC Ruksin T Pada and ADC Mebo Y. Tayeng also attended the meeting. DIPRO
Siang Tea organic training for woman SHG continues
Correspondent
RUKSIN, May 26: Accelerating its ongoing efforts on ‘Organic campaign for woman Self Help Group (SHG)s’, the Siang Tea Industries Ltd on Thursday conducted a day-long training for the members of Women Self Help Groups at Diite Tea garden at Linka near here.
The 30-member woman SHG from Sissen and Rottung villages in Siang district was imparted training on organic cultivation of fruits and vegetables besides tea garden management on organic way.
Imparting the training, Organic Master Trainer of Siang Tea, Kaling Moyong made demonstration on various methods and techniques for preparation of green manures, vermin-compost, vermin-wash and bio-dynamic composes and pesticides and how to apply in tea gardens, crop field and orchards.
Assistant manager of Diite Tea Estate, Kinung Pabo informed that the Siang Tea Company has launched the noble initiative to make the rural farmers aware about organic farming to ensure quality production of food-grain, vegetables and fruits in the state.
The women later visited different sites at Donyi-Polo Tea Estate (DPTE), Oyan and gained practical knowledge on management of tea garden. They also met Managing Director of DPTE, Omak Apang, who encouraged them to go on organic farming and assured of all technical guidance for it.
Union bats for technical person to head APST
ITANAGAR, May 26: Alleging that due to faulty policies of Arunachal Pradesh Civil Services (APCS) officers, huge liabilities are being created in Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Services, Arunachal Anti-Corruption Union (AACU) on Thursday requested the Chief Minister to take appropriate action for conversion of APSTS into an engineering department and appointment of general manager from engineering background. In its representation, the union opined that since APST is a revenue generating department, it should be headed by technical person, as it has to deal with automobile and other engineering materials.
“Where question of revenue and services are concerned, professional expert are preferred universally. For the sake of APCS officers, the whole department and its 800 staffs cannot be made scapegoat”, AACU stated.
It further claimed that a current state of affairs in the department is due to wrong policy of non-technical people.
It also claimed that department was in good health during deputation of officers with technical background from other parts of the state.
In a separate memorandum to the Chief Secretary, the Union sought strong action be initiated against gambling culture in the name of festivals and social functions. It said that gambling like dice have ruined many families and the culture should be ended for the greater interest of the people.
Oath on Swachh Bharat Mission
ITANAGAR, May 26: PCCF & Principal Secretary (Environment & Forests), GN Sinha on Thursday administered oath on Swachh Bharat Mission Pledge in the PCCF office premises, Itanagar.
PCCF (P & D), Dr. Rabindra Kumar, Addl PCCF (A &V) Dr. Ch. Murlidhar Rao, Addl PCCF (WP&C), Dr. M Surya Prakash, CCF(Cons), CCF (FDA &IT), CF(S &P), CF (HQ) and all DCFs took the oath.
All the front line staffs of PCCF office also attended the oath taking of Swachh Bharat Mission.
Social service at Tawang Monastery
TAWANG, May 26: A social service was conducted on Thursday at Tawang Monastery under the I-Phase of Campaign Clean India Arunachal. The programme was organised by the Department of Tourism with support from the Department of Urban Development &Housing, members of Shyo village and monks of the monastery in collaboration with the District Administration.
During the programme, Deputy Commissioner, Tawang Kashish Mittal said that Tawang Monastery being the heart and soul of entire district has been chosen for the Campaign and the region being world famous for its cultural heritage, keeping it clean would flourish tourism.
DC also gave away dustbins to be installed within the premises of the monastery. Further, DTO Tawang requested for whole hearted cooperation from the participants in making their endeavour a success.
DC also visited Kendriya Vidyalaya, Tawang and inspected the facilities available in the school. During his interaction with the teachers and the students, he was apprised of various issues related to the school. He asked the Principal to submit a proposal citing the requirements so that those could be taken up. While appreciating the infrastructure available in the school, he advised to maintain cleanliness in and around the surroundings and also to conduct regular mock drill on disaster management. DIPRO
ArSRLM induction training and exposure
ITANAGAR, May 26: An induction training at North Eastern Regional Centre of the National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj (NIRD & PR-NERC) and exposure training at Orvakal Mandal Podhupu Lakshmi Ikya Sangam (OMPLIS) in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh was organised for a team of 24 professionals of State Mission Management Unit (SMMU) and Block Mission Management Unit (BMMU) professionals of Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ArSRLM) from May 3 to May 16.
An official release stated that the induction training at NIRD & PR-NERC helped the professionals in getting clear understanding about the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).
During the exposure training, professionals from ArSRLM had an intense study on the history, process, challenges and activities of several SHGs and conducted case studies on some of the successful SHG members.
The objective of the exposure training at OMPLIS was to give the professionals of ArSRLM firsthand experience of the best Self Help Group (SHG) practice in the country.
OMPLIS is a federation of 10,000 rural poor women. The federation evolved as a result of South Asia Poverty Alleviation Program (SAPAP) implemented in Orvakal Mandal of Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh, from 1995-2000. Later on this federation was strengthened and supported by Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP), Andhra Pradesh. Today the federation has evolved as a self- sustaining community based organization. It is an organization formed by rural poor women and totally managed by them.
Assam Rifles provides beds and tables for village hostel
ITANAGAR, May 26: Extending their helping hands towards the villagers of Tirap District, the Assam Rifles provided furniture at Lapnam village under its Civic Action Programme.
The Assam Rifles Battalion stationed at Khonsa under the Lekhapani Assam Rifles Sector has provided a total of 30 beds and 30 tables to the hostel benefitting the students.
In a function attended by the villagers, the villagers appreciated the initiatives of Assam Rifles and expressed hope that Assam Rifles would continue to extend assistance in the days to come.
Governor congratulates state Taekwondo players
ITANAGAR, May 26: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh JP Rajkhowa has congratulated the Taekwondo players of Arunachal Pradesh for bringing laurels for the country and the State in the second Kyorugi and first Poomsae International Taekwondo Championship held in Bhutan recently.
The Governor said that the successful accomplishment of the players reflected the immense talents in the youth of Arunachal Pradesh. He expressed hope that the sportspersons will continue to showcase the sporting potential of the State in the future.
ANSU seeks subject teachers
Correspondent
Daporijo, May 26: The members of All Nyishi Students Union on Monday meet DDSE Upper Subansiri district regarding the grievances of students of Govt. Higher Secondary school Muri Mugli and Govt. Higher Secondary school, Ligu. ANSU in its release informed that due to non availability of subject teachers in the two mentioned schools, the students are facing hindrance in the learning process.
Many a times the problem was brought to the notice of authority concern but all in vain, the ANSU said. They informed that despite their repeated demand to provide subject teachers for the student’s welfare but their demand were never heard. Union also informed that building and other infrastructure in the schools are in pathetic condition especially at Muri Mugli. They appealed to the authority concern to immediately renovate the building and provide subject teachers in the schools.
Complaint against shopkeepers
ITANAGAR, May 26: The Tagin Students’ Union (ATSU) has lodged complaint against the shopkeepers of Upper Subansiri district for selling goods in exorbitant price and illegal selling of Ghutkas.
In its complaint letter to the District Legal Metrology Officer, it has warned of launching democratic movement against the administration if the guilty shopkeepers go unpunished.
Edufest from today
ITANAGAR, May 26: The North East India’s biggest Education Fair Edufest will start on Friday at Hotel Donyi Polo Ashoka. Large numbers of students are expected to participate in the fest to get information about reputed universities of India.
This is the fourteenth year of Edufest being held in North East India. It is usually held in all the capitals of North East.
Reputed Universities like Amity , Manipal, IMS Unison, Pacific Medical University , Alliance and a host of others would be putting up their stalls for two days to enable students and parents to answer all their queries regarding courses, admissions, scholarships, hostel accommodation all under one roof at this exhibition.
This is the sixth year this exhibition is being held in Itanagar. Edufest is an exclusive education fair where only UGC, AICTE accredited universities is allowed to participate so that students and parents can get correct information from institutions without having to travel across the country. The Arunachal Times is the partner for this exhibition
AKDDSU seeks independent SP
ITANAGAR, May 26: Kra Daadi district is reportedly plagued with lot of development issues, ranging from insufficient infrastructures to lack of head of departments.
Drawing the Chief Minister’s attention on Thursday, All Kra Daadi District Students’ Union demanded for Independent Superintendent of Police for the district claiming that the district is still being looked after by Lower Subansiri district SP. It also said that Police department of the district is currently under Sangram which has no transportation facilities. The union also urged the CM to make Tali Police out Post functional so that law and order may be tackled by concerned police outpost.
Teachers’ orientation camp concludes
ITANAGAR, May 26: The weeklong teacher’s orientation camp organised by Arunachal Shiksha Vikas Samiti at Abotani Vidya Niketan, Pachin concluded on May 25.
A total of 55 teachers from 20 schools run by the Samiti have undergone the training wherein theoretical and practical sessions on various issues related to Vidya Bharati’s line of school curriculum and teaching based on the Bharatiya culture, wisdom and educational psychology was imparted.
The camp inaugurated by Vice Chancellor, RGU, Prof. Tamo Mibang, while resource persons from the RGU’s Department of Education, SCERT Itanagar, VKVAPT Itanagar, Vidya Bharati Nagaland, Vidya Bharati Uttar Pradesh, etc. conducted the training.
A special feature of the camp was practical sessions on easy and speedy arithmetical calculations through the principles of Vedic Mathematics by the All India Convenor of Vedic Mathematics teaching Devendra Rao Deshmukh.
The valedictory session of the camp was attended by Dr. Jagat Chandra Bora, Principal Scientist and Dr. Chandan Tamuli Senior Scientist at NEIST, Naharlagun. Organising secretary of Vidya Bharati Eastern Uttar Pradesh Domeshwar Sahu spoke in the function.
Triumphant players return home
Aalo, May 26:-
Nyalin Basar and Yaman Bunyi won silver medal each while Marpi Basar won a Bronze at the event. The District Youth Sports Officer Tumto Loyi and General Secretary WSTA Modam Karbak appreciated the efforts put in by the participants and exhorted them to excel further in future competitions. DIPRO
2nd phase of SBA starts at Pasighat town
Correspondent
PASIGHAT, May 26: Around 300 people residing in Pasighat urban area on Thursday gathered at two-mile (Ward-12) and took part in a cleaning programme and launched its second phase of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in Pasighat.
The programme was initiated by Municipal Councilor (Ward-12) which saw the participation of the Bharatiya Janata Party workers and local residents, business communities and government officials of the locality.
The programme started from Two-Mile petrol pump and ended at Judicial Jail near Pasighat market. The participants cleaned both sides of the National Highway during the occasion.
Among others, East Siang district BJP president, Tamat Jonnom and General Secretary Apu Darang and others BJP activists also participated the social service.
District Badminton Championship begins
PASIGHAT, May 26: The first district level “Open Badminton Championship” began on Wednesday at the Pasighat Town Club.
The tournament is being organized by the General Administration in collaboration with the East Siang Badminton Association (ESBA).
East Siang DC Isha Khosla who is also Organizing Chairperson formally declared the tournament open amidst hundreds of sports lovers.
Earlier, the District Sports Officer Nada Apa informed that the achievers will be rewarded with cash prizes. DIPRO
Training on e-Taal held
ITANAGAR, May 26: A video conference based training-cum-workshop on eTaal (e-Transaction Aggregation and Analysis Layer) Portal was organized on Thursday for the stakeholders of Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh by national informatics centre (NIC). The NIC New Delhi aided the training.
The program was held as per the directions of the Secretary (IT), Govt of Arunachal Pradesh. The objective behind organizing the training programme was to sensitize the officers of IT Department and software application developers of various projects providing G2C/G2B/G2G services.
eTaal (http://etaal.gov.in) is a web portal for dissemination of e-Transaction statistics of Central and State level e-Governance Projects including Mission Mode Projects. It receives transaction statistics from web based applications periodically on near real time basis. eTaal presents quick analysis of transaction counts in graphical form (Bar Chart, Pie Chart, Bubble Chart, etc.) and as Tabular Statements to give quick view of transactions done by various e-Governance projects.
EDP training at Tawang
ITANAGAR, May 26: Entrepreneurship Development Program Training under PMEGP Scheme got underway at Craft Centre at Tawang on Thursday. The training being imparted by Arunachal Pradesh Rural Bank, Rural Self Employment Training Institute in collaboration with Department of Industries, Tawang.
16 are taking part in the training. Topic for the training programme included Achievement Motivation, Effective Communication, Legal Formalities in Business, Marketing Management, about PMEGP Scheme and officers from various Govt. Departments have been roped in as resource persons. DIPRO
Obituary
ITANAGAR, May 26: Gandhi Sinha, Driver, posted at the Office of Deputy Resident Commissioner, Govt. of A.P., Guwahati has died on May 19 after prolonged illness. He served the department for more than 15 years.
The Officers and staffs of Directorate of Civil Aviation, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh has mourned his death.
SMRF reaches Delhi seeking justice for Tawang police firing victims, stages protest rally
ITANAGAR, May 26: Hundreds of people including Monks under the banner of Save Mon Region Federation (SMRF) staged peaceful protest rally against the police firing in Tawang at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi on Thursday.
A 21-year-old Nyima Wangdi, a monk from the Tawang Monastery and 31-year-old Tsering Tempa from Jangda village were killed and several others injured when Police opened fire on the crowd of around 2000 who were demanding the immediate release of Lama Lobsang Gyatso, the most vocal opponent of hydropower projects in the Tawang region and secretary of Save Mon Region Federation (SMRF) at Tawang on May 2.
Various organizations including National Alliance of People’s Movements (NAPM), South Asian Network for Rivers, Dams and Delhi Solidarity Group extended their solidarity with the SMRF and also demanded justice to the victims of Tawang police firing. They strongly condemned the ‘high-handedness of the administration’ in dealing with a peaceful protesters, and said that the guilty must be punished. Alleging nexus between the State machinery and the Private power developers against the interest of the people in the Mon region, the organizations said they will never allow such nexus to continue.
The directions of NGT and Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change must be adhered to in dam construction, the organizations said.
Earlier on May 24, a delegation of the SMRF along the representatives of NAPM and Delhi Solidarity Group (DSG) met Chairman, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) and sought justice for the victims of Tawang firing. The Chairman assured the delegates that he will direct State authorities to register cases under Prevention of Atrocities (SC/ST) Act, and also ask for CID and judicial enquiry, not involving local police in investigation. The NCST chairman also assured compensation to the injured and the relatives of the people who were killed in police firing, the Federation in a press statement said.
The SMRF-led delegation also called on the Jt. Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in New Delhi on May 25 and apprised him about the present status of hydro projects being constructed in Tawang valley. Jt. Secretary is reported to have assured the team that Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is not going to challenge the order issued on April 7th by National Green Tribunal (NGT).
It is worth mentioning here that in response to a petition filed in 2012, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) suspended the environment clearance granted by the Union environment ministry for the Rs. 6,400 crore Nyamjang Chhu hydropower project in Tawang’s Zemithang area. The NGT noted that the project did not consider its impact on the habitat of the endangered black-necked crane, which is endemic to the region. The bird is rated “vulnerable” in the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s list of endangered species and is listed in schedule 1 of the Wildlife (Prohibition) Act 1972 and also considered sacred to the Buddhist Monpa community, who consider it an embodiment of the 6th Dalai Lama, who was from Tawang and wrote about the bird in his poetry.
The Joint Secretary also assured the team to conduct various studies pertaining to the endangered bird through Wildlife Institute of India and accepted its demand for involving community people in decision making on the issues related to community and its religious belief. The Forum also approached NHRC seeking justice to the Tawang firing victims, the press statement added.
However, the demand for CBI enquiry into Tawang killing and issues pertaining to procedures for project approval are yet to be addressed, the Federation said.
While addressing the press persons, Himanshu Thakkar, an IITian and leading researcher and anylist on water issues in India who heads South Asian Network for Rivers, Dams and People said “The electricity generated from Tawang will not reach local people even though power projects will affect them in many ways.”
“There was no reason for the Police to open fire on the gathering without any warning. This incident forces us to think whether it was a pre-planned action or not,” said Vimal Bhai, Gandhian and member of NAPM.
CM urges Sonowal to maintain friendly ties
ITANAGAR, May 26: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Kalikho Pul has urged his new Assam counterpart Sarbananda Sonowal to maintain friendly relations between the two neighbouring states.
"Assam and Arunachal should maintain cordial relations and all historical, cultural and age-old ties," Pul said during a courtesy call on Sonowal in Guwahati yesterday, an official release said today.
Pul also appealed to the Assam Chief Minister to resolve the boundary issue between the two states through dialogue and peaceful means.
The Arunachal Pradesh CM stressed that the two states should work together on all development issues and maintain close cooperation for developing hydro projects in Arunachal Pradesh and taking the local people into confidence.
Pul also met Assam Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Irrigation Minister Ranjit Dutta, Commerce and Industry Minister Chandramohan Patowary, PHE Minister Rihan Daimary, Rajya Sabha MP Biswajit Daimary and BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary, the release added. PTI
State Level Inter Club Badminton C’ship begins
ITANAGAR, May 26: The first State Level Inter Club Badminton Team Championship for both Men and Women began at Raj Bhawan Badminton Stadium, Itanagar on May 26.
The opening match was played between Doimukh Badminton Club and Bamang Tadh Badminton Club.
Around 300 players from 24 affiliated clubs from across the state are taking part in both single and double (open) events in the four days championships.
A total of 12 clubs are fielding women teams.
Arunachal State Badminton Association (ASBA), President, Ratu Techi, who declared the championship open, assured his full cooperation and necessary help for further development of Badminton in Arunachal Pradesh.
Talking to media persons, Ratu acknowledged the lack of infrastructure for badminton in Arunachal Pradesh. He said that ASBA would approach the government for development of badminton infrastructure and expressed hope that the government will respond positively to it.
The ASBA president also administered oath of discipline and sportsman spirit to the participating players.
ASBA Secretary, Bamang Tago highlighted the association’s continuing efforts for promotion of the sport in the state. He also said that badminton has been gaining popularity in the state in every passing year with parent’s whole-hearted supports. He advised the players to practice hard and maintain strict discipline to become a good player.
Among others, Director of Sports Tadar Appa and officials of ASBA were present on the occasion.
Today’s result
Anini Badminton Club defeated Seijosa Badminton Club by 2-0, Bamang Tadh Club defeated Doimukh Badminton Club by 2-1, Lala Sporting Club defeated Jairampur Badminton Club by 2-0, PTC Badminton Club defeated Jairampur Badminton Club by 2-1, B.N. Badminton Club defeated Officer Badminton Club by 2-0. E.S.S. Badminton Club defeated Namsai Badminton Club by 2-0, Lumla Badminton Club won by walk over, N.E.R.I.E.S.T. Badminton Club defeated G-Sector Badminton Club by 2-1
ANSU questions Govt on PDS bills
Audio clip controversy surfaces
ITANAGAR, May 26: All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU) has alleged the state govt of selectively clearing PDS bills to three Nyishi PDS contractors, Likha Maj, MLAs Likha Saya and Takam Tagar.
ANSU urged CM Kalikho Pul to clear all pending PDS bills of all the genuine PDS contractors of the state. If he cannot do justice to all PDS contractors, then he should stop clearing PDS bill on selective basis. It further demanded to scrutinise fake PDS documents before clearing bills of various contractors.
Meanwhile, ANSU has said that PDS contractor Likha Maj has betrayed the people for his personal benefit by withdrawing the complaint against Kalikho Pul who was credited for using derogatory words against the Nyishi community.
While terming the withdrawal of the complaint as insignificant since the Nyishi community didn’t endorse Likha Maj to lodge the FIR against Chief Minister, it divulged that Maj was the person who persistently approached All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU) to take up audio clip issue against Kalikho Pul.
For his personal benefit, he betrayed his own community by withdrawing his FIR against Pul, ANSU said as it alleged that Maj’s betrayal of the community had to do with PDS money.
ANSU is competent enough to protect Nyishi community from external threat and ANSU will put all effort to deliver justice to the community on Pul audio clip issue, said Byabang Joram, the president of the Union.
ANSU meanwhile demanded Maj to prove his claim that voice in audio clip is not genuine before the Nyishi community with authentic documents or apologise.
Hornbill Nest Adoption Program gets Biodiversity Awards
ITANAGAR, May 26: The International Day of Biological Diversity celebrations brought cheers to Pakke Tiger Reserve as it received “India Biodiversity Awards 2016”, a joint initiative of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, National Biodiversity Authority and United Nations Development Program, India.
This year the theme was “Mainstreaming Biodiversity: sustaining people and their livelihood” and prizes were given to awardees at a glittering ceremony held in Mumbai.
The Hornbill Nest Adoption Program was awarded a prize under “conservation of threatened species". The other categories were: sustainable use of biological resources, successful mechanism/models for access and benefit sharing and biodiversity management committees.
The Hornbill Nest Adoption Program is collaboration between Ghora-Aabhe Society, Nature Conservation Foundation and the Forest Department of Pakke Tiger Reserve, informed Range Forest officer Kime Rambia.
"Conservation can only happen with the support of local communities", said Tana Tapi, the Divisional Forest Officer of Pakke Tiger Reserve. The nest adoption program has been a milestone towards the conservation of the four hornbill species that are found in the adjoining areas of Pakke Tiger Reserve.
Under this program urban citizens contribute a monetary sum to protect hornbill nests around Pakke Tiger Reserve. The Ghora-Aabhe Society members have been conducting awareness meetings and various other activities towards safeguarding the hornbill species and its habitat.
At the award ceremony the conservation team was represented by Takam Nabam, Chairperson Ghora-Aabhe Society and Chandan Ri, representative of the Forest Department. They received the memento and certificate of appreciation from Prakash Javadekar, Minister of Environment & Forest and Climate Change and C.H. Vidyasagar Rao, the Governor of Maharashtra.
"Our team faces stiff challenges on the ground and sometimes it can be tiring, but recognition like this gives us renewed energy", said Takam Nabam who just returned to Seijosa in Pakke Tiger Reserve.
Pul visits Tawang firing victim
GUWAHATI, May 26: Chief Minister Kalikho Pul on Thursday visited Wangpa Thutan (44), who was injured in the May 2 police firing at Tawang, at Hayat Hospital in Guwahati.
The CM consoled Thutan and enquired on his health conditions and assured him of all financial support until full recovery. Thutan had suffered femoral shaft fracture after a bullet hit him in his right thigh.
Extending financial support for the treatment, Pul gave Rs.2 lakhs from his personal source. This is in addition to earlier amount of Rs.1 lakh from CM’s personal source.
The CM was informed by the doctors that it would take almost 18 months for Thutan to fully recover. He was brought to the Hayat hospital in a very critical condition and was directly admitted to the ICU. Further delay and complications could have led to leg amputation had it not been for timely medical intervention, informed the medical authority.
The CM also advised Thutan to strictly follow the instructions of the doctors and assured to provide full financial help if the need arises for further treatment outside North East.
Further, the Chief Minister asked the hospital authority to take care of the patient. The CM also interacted with the doctors and other patients admitted in the hospital.
IMC alleged of misusing funds
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, May 26: BJP councilor of Itanagar Muncipal Councilor (IMC) Gora Lotak has alleged IMC chief councilor, Deputy Chief Councilor and empowered standing committee (ESC) of misusing fund for the last three years.
“They have always claimed that state government is not providing enough funds. But in fact IMC, at present, has several crores of rupees,” ward no. 18 councilor alleged demanding enquiry into the embezzlement and seeking their resignation from the posts.
Lotak claimed that budgetary session in IMC has not been conducted for the last three years and that no honorarium has been paid to the councilors since.
“No budgetary sessions have been conducted for the last three years. May be they are afraid that the councilors will get to know about the funds received,” he mocked adding, “And then Itanagar was rated as the third dirtiest city in the country. If they cannot even clean the city, how will they even run the council?”
He further blamed Commissioner, town planning and Urban Local Bodies, Belatee Pertin, for not providing engineering wing to IMC.
“The file for creation of engineering wing was kept in his chamber unattended for about seven months,” he accused and sought enquiry into it.
The BJP councilor further sought abolition of the car parking fees that is being implemented by IMC in the twin Capital.
“Of the Rs 10, Rs eight is taken by the collector while only Rs 2 goes to IMC. It should be the other way around,” he said.
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Editorial
Road accident increasing day by day
In the last 10 days, two major road accidents have rocked the state. On Sunday last, 15 people lost their lives when a pickup truck carrying them plunged into deep gorge at Kalaktang under West Kameng district. In another tragic road accident yesterday three persons died while five received grievous injury at Banderdewa. It is alleged that both the accident took place due to bad road condition.
As the monsoon arrives, the road condition across the state will start to deteriorate. Destruction of road due to landslides is quite common. This will also pose serious threat to the motorists who use the road. Therefore civil administration across the state should remain alert. Accident prone areas should be identified and prior warning should be issued to the driver to exert caution. District administration should coordinate with departments like PWD, RWD and Border Road Organization (BRO) in this regard. Also general awareness campaign should be conducted throughout the state by the government authorities to educate people. All the district hospitals, PHC and CHC should be equipped to deal with the accident case. People should also be cautious in this time of the year and avoid journey unless it is very important.
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Readers’ Forum
North East and Cancer
Dear Editor,
Through your esteemed daily, I would like to draw the attention of the establishment to the staggering number of cancer patients from north east and in particular our state. According to the latest cancer data released, Aizawl has the highest incidence in men and Papumpare accounted maximum cases in women. While the numbers are really very much alarming, the data also reveals that the cancer burden in the north east is among the highest in the world. Now the question is whether our state or in general the north east region have adequate medical infrastructure to deal with such rapid increase in cancer patients? In keeping view with the huge number of cancer patients does our region have any standard cancer hospital? Isn't this a violation of our fundamental right of life and liberty? In absence of such needed infrastructure our people are forced to travel to metros. For instance just to perform mammography one has to travel 1000s of miles. Is this really fair?
Some of the suggestion which I would place before to the govt of the day are:
1.First class cancer hospital in North East which can treat growing cancer patients on subsidized rate but also could pursue its research on why there is such rapid increase in the numbers of cancer patients from the region.
2. Since the survey clearly shows the severity of the matter, I would urge the health deptt to conduct awareness program on regular basis (as mentioned in the report that the enormity of the tobacco problem in the north east is reflected in the cancer registry)
3.Both Mumbai and Delhi Arunachal Bhavan/House must be equipped enough to accommodate the cancer patients.
4. For temporary basis, I urge the govt to create a special Cancer Relief Fund as there is nothing more precious than human lives.
5. Lastly our State run hospitals should be at-
Yours,
Family member of a cancer survivor
India and Racism
Dear Editor,
This refers to your editorial titled, "Racism" (Arunachal Times, May 26, 2016). The repeated attacks on Africans in India has exposed the existence of deep rooted colour prejudice in our country. This underlines the immediate need to ban those advertisements of fairness cream that associate dark complexion with ostracism and fair complexion with popularity. Repeated audiovisual propaganda by the celebrities through such advertisements consolidates the myth that associates beauty with fair complexion and as a result it nurtures apathy towards dark complexion. They make us forget how popular and powerful the dark man in the White House is! In fact, any advertisement that corrodes humanity and fraternity needs to be nipped in the bud. The advertisers should learn a thing or two from their western counterparts who select models of different hues like Naomi Campbell and Serena Williams to promote their products.
Yours,
Sujit De, Kolkata
Be careful in choosing the college
Dear Editor,
I know these days are very confusing phase for the students who have just finished their school life and they are about to take one of most important decision of their lives, that is to choose a good college.
One must think twice and take advices from seniors before opting for any college because it is something that will shape one's attitude and flip the direction of one's destiny. And sadly most of our parents are not enlightened enough to guide us through this particular time for they are from the generation where schools were meant only for few and the luckiest. So one has to be very careful and be wise.
I've witnessed some students who ruined their academic career by choosing a wrong college. Some guys will just opt for the unknown colleges of big cities & famous places hoping for a better lifestyle. If you are one of them then let me tell you that you are going to regret it for the rest of your life. It is good for all be if your result is good enough to get admission in the renowned colleges of Shillong, Guwahati, DU, JNU, BHU and elsewhere. But if you are going out of the state merely for the sake of enjoyment, comfortable life and pride or because of the instigation of friends then you are axing the tree whereon you are sitting.
It is hoped that some students who have passed with a distinction mark will get enrolled in the top colleges of the country but most of the students have shown average performance and I would suggest those junior friends to go for RGU affiliated colleges. The education system of Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) is fairly good as per my personal experience and most importantly it is financially affordable and one is in safer place. In other states, colleges are as many as the shops there and we never know which one sells degree certificate and which one imparts everlasting knowledge.
Whatsoever, the sole purpose of pursuing graduation should be to build your mental fitness, so fit that you should be confident enough about your ability to face the world proudly and you should not be a mere graduate but a valuable asset for your society and for the humanity.
In this regard, I sincerely appeal the learned elders to skip out few hours. Your business to guide your children find the right track else you may regret when it will be too late.
Yours,
Pankai Chingsaham
RGU, Doimukh
Be aware
Dear Editor,
I am a Nursing Student in SJB College, Banglore. We are facing many problems with this College.
Even after paying Hostel fees, we are shifted to a PG and we have to pay Electric
Bills per month between Rs 1400-
We dont even know how the bills are huge when we are not allowed to use any other electrical appliances other than fan and bulb.
But the main problem that we face is that University that our College is affiliated have limited seats but our College take lots of students. If registration can’t be done due to limited seats we have to waste a year.
We are not even allowed to ask any question regarding these issues and if we do, we are suspended.
This College was said to have its own hospital but in actual it’s a Private Hospital in which we are shifted for two months. We are sent to other hospital for practical education after extra fee is paid.
What was the purpose of paying all those admission fees with huge amount?
Everything in its prospectus is fake.
Dont believe the brokers or Agents they would tell you only good and fake things about the Colleges for admission because all they need is commission for admitting students and their work is done.
If you want to get admission in any college, I suggest you to get full information about that college or visit personally. Dont get admission to a college without full knowledge
I dont want anyone to regret like us.
There are many fake colleges which aren’t affiliated to any Universities or approved by AICTE but Claims to be a Govt approved.
Be aware of all those Colleges.
Yours,
A cheated student