November -
- 15 bodies recovered, one traceless
- Don’t pass the buck: DC Capital
- State remembers Dr Hazarika with profound love
- Two rescued from clutches of NSCN (IM)
- Union objects to tour of London
- Nyiko Bachao Forum responds to unhappy PRIs and Gbs
- Kebang to celebrate Anglo-
Abor War Centenary - ALSU concerned by encroachment
- Tale of brave hearts
- Thief caught in CCTV camera
- APLS remember Bhupen Hazarika
- SHG Bank Linkage training programme at Ziro
- Content refinement for e-
AgriKiosk project - Sports competition at Anjaw
- 18 NE children to march to Delhi
- Deputy speaker, orgs condole deaths
- Advisory on use of Suspension Bridges
- Tea producing societies (SHGs) in N.E.: an alternative for sustenance
15 bodies recovered, one traceless
Seppa Bridge collapse
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: The horrifying Seppa Bridge collapse has claimed fifteen lives.
One person Pazo Sonam, F-
The Wire Rope Suspension Bridge of PWD over Kameng River, Seppa linking Bazarline and New Seppa collapsed on Oct 29 sending shock waves across the state.
The weak bridge in need of maintenance had collapsed with more than 40 people who had gathered to collect taari (Gandhi puk), a delicacy.
Apart from the dead and missing, ten people sustained severe injuries while 37 escaped with minor injuries.
List of Dead are: Meme Doka, (F -
The Governor Gen (Retd) J J Singh had sought the services of the naval divers for search operation. However it was suspended at the request of the Administration as barring one, most of the missing persons have been recovered.
Deputy Commissioner Tope Bam DC expressed the hope that the lone missing person will also be traced out at the earliest.
He expressed thankfulness on behalf of District Administration and people of the
district to the state government, MP, AICC President Sonia Gandhi and local MLA Tapuk
Taku for granting ex-
The district administration has also extended hearty thankfulness to the local volunteers, students, Govt. employees, State police personnel for their sincerity and dedication in rescue and search operation. The DC also expressed deep gratitude to the authorities of Indian Army for their immediate response in hours of disaster and grief in helping the local Administration for search operations.
The DC further disclosed that a Committee would disburse the relief amount for the families of the deceased and those injured. DC has also constituted a Medical Board consisting of 3 medical officers under the chairmanship of Medical Superintendent, District Hospital, Seppa to verify physically and cross check the list of major and minor injured persons for disbursement of compensation.
Don’t pass the buck: DC Capital
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: Capital Complex deputy commissioner Onit Panyang today called for
concerted efforts by the police, the administrative officers, the civil society,
the traders and the media to contain crime and make the state capital crime-
Addressing the magistrates, administrative officers, representatives of Arunachal Chamber of Commerce & Industries (ACCI), bazaar welfare committees and sector committees of the Capital Complex in DC’s conference hall here, Panyang said: “It is high time to change our ‘passing the buck’ mindset and shake off our responsibilities as indivisible part of the society. If the students agitate and few are arrested, the parents instead of appreciating would blame the police and the magistrate. Regrettably, parents have lost control on their children in our tribal society that reflect their disregard to civic sense,” he said to drive home his point.
When the youths roam around, booze and indulge in crimes, why the parents fail to stop them, he questioned.
The meeting aimed at getting feed backs and sensitizing one and all towards individual responsibility for greater welfare of the society, he said, adding “together we flourish, divided we perish”.
Responding to point-
He assured to put a mechanism in place to ensure that the good works of police and administration for the safety of the citizens are disseminated through the media.
He appreciated the feed backs of Itanagar, Naharlagun and Banderdewa police station
in-
He made a fervent appeal to the people to not communalize any accident or form groups
to twist any unfortunate incident through their claims and counter-
On provisional ILP without photographs which are being misused or duplication of permanent ILP by miscreants outside the state, the DC assured to take up the matter with the GoAP.
DC exhorted the traders who are often victimized for none of their faults to come out of fear psychosis and assist the police or administration by passing on information either through telephone or SMS or anonymous letter for them to act. He also cautioned the traders who for no reasons succumb to the pressure of the criminals and support them in committing crimes. Such persons on detection would not be spared, he warned.
The last Diwali in capital was celebrated peacefully after banning dice and crackers of high decibel; he said to prove the administration’s action honouring the request of traders’ bodies.
Responding to the charges of ACCI general secretary Tarh Nachung that police actions
have been very slow, he stressed on a fool-
However, the DC along with the OCs pointed out their shortcomings of very limited strength and few outdated vehicles which they said have proved a drag in crime control. The matter would be taken up with the GoAP too, the DC assured.
Pointing out that many of the government establishments remain in dark throughout the night, the DC asked the authorities concern to make proper lighting arrangements immediately and ensure that their watchmen perform their duties properly.
SP (Security) G K Chetia, ADC Bokar Basar, ADM Talo Potom, EACS, COs and magistrates were present in the meeting.
State remembers Dr Hazarika with profound love
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: Aisena Tang Saikia, an admirer and Arunachalee woman married to an Assamese, could not control her emotions as tears rolled down her face while paying tribute to Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, who passed away yesterday after a prolonged illness.
Fondly remembering her meeting with Dr. Hazarika at Naharlagun in 1977, at a condolence meeting organized jointly by All Arunachal Kristi Vikash Kendra, All Kristi Kendras of Itanagar, Itanagar Rongali Bihu Sanmilan and Nyitangan Music and Dance Academy, Itanagar at H sector here today, Aisena, a teacher by profession, said that as child at that time I felt proud of myself because I had a rare chance to meet a person of his calibre from very closer. He wished and encouraged me by touching my head while I was performing on the occasion,” she remembered.
Dr. Hazarika was awarded with a Gold medal on the occasion by the Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh for his outstanding contribution in the field of tribal welfare and uplift of tribal culture through cinema and music, she said. It is pertinent to mention here that Dr. Hazarika was the director of Arunachal’s first full length feature film ‘Mera Dharam Meri Maa’. Nabam Tata and Dr. Bengia Mala played the main role of the film.
Dr. Bhupen Hazarika was the last cultural representative of Assam after the death of the trio of Lakshminath Bezbaruah, Jyoti Prasad Agarwala and Bishnu Prasad Rabah, Dr. S Kakoty, president of Kristi Kendra, Itanagar said.
Kristi Vikash Committee, Itanagar general secretary Chitradev Sharma called upon all to emulate the ideals of Dr. Hazarika, who dedicated his life for the uplift of Assamese society economically and socially through music.
At Naharlagun, the Assameese community today paid shraddanjali to noted singer late Bhupen Hazarika in a simple function at Imdad Bhawan.
The members present in the house including Minoti Riba, wife of former Chief Minister Tomo Riba observed two minutes silence and prayed for his departed soul to rest in peace.
Attending the programme, noted singer Bengia Hemonto informed his association with Dr Hazarika since during NEFA days and how he got inspiration in singing from him.
“May his soul bring oneness to all the entire state of North East region and bring peace to the entire nation”, Bengia said while expressing the sad demised.
APBOCWWB chairman Jalley Sonam said, through singing he had on every hearts of the state and his name will be remember forever.
Ashok Sonam expressed his deep gratitude to him for flourishing songs in the state and he let know to the North East in India.
The function was jointly organized by the Assameese Youth Welfare Association of Arunachal Pradesh, Asom Arunachal Sammanoy Rakkhi Lekhikha Samaroh Sakha Samity and Assameese Students’ Union of NERIST.
Arunachal Pradesh Governor General (Retd.) J.J. Singh has deeply mourned the death of legendary Music maestro.
In his condolence message to Tej Hazarika, son of the Music doyen, the Governor recalled Dr. Hazarika as a multifaceted and distinguished personality, a bard and balladeer of the Brahmaputra, whose quality compositions were easily identifiable and enjoyed by the common people. He was not just a great singer but also a renowned social reformer who brought the Northeast closer to the rest of India, the message read.
Describing the death of music maestro Bhupen Hazarika as a great loss for Arunachal Pradesh, Minoti Riba, wife of former chief minister Tomo Riba said since late 60’s Bhupenda served as the cultural ambassador and brought this undiscovered Himalayan state through his heart touching songs that touched the core of every hearts.
Recollecting her husband and her long association with the legend, she said that
silence ruled the Donyi-
She also read out Bhupenda’s autobiography – Main eti jajabar – where he has categorically mentioned that he was breastfed by Adi mothers of Banung gaon when he was hardly nine months old. My mother used to scold me that am sentimental like Arunachalees.
Bhupenda always remained in touch with Tomo Riba and state’s noted singer Bengia Hemanta.
Arunachal Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee president and former minister Yari Dulom expressed shock at the death of music doyen Dr. Hazarika. Recalling Dr. Hazarika’s visit to Daporijo in late sixties, Dulom said that Dr. Hazarika mesmerized the people of Daporijo with his melodious numbers throughout the night which is still fondly remembered by our people.
During his visit to then NEFA after 1962 Chinese aggression, he composed many a songs relating to our people. He also visited five districts and interacted with our people, she said.
Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) expressed its deepest sense of condolences on the demise of legendary singer Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, who breathed his last yesterday.
APCC termed Dr. Hazarika as a multifaceted personality and creative genius whose deep “baritone voice" and "extraordinary talent" encompassed not only music and literature but also in the field of acting and direction in movies. His demise created a vacuum which will never be filled, APCC said while recalling his special attachment with the people of Arunachal Pradesh.
APCC prays to Almighty God to rest his departed soul in eternal peace and bestow enough strength to the bereaved family members to bear the irreparable loss cause to them.
Two rescued from clutches of NSCN (IM)
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: During the course of extensive search operation, the combined team of 19 Assam Rifles and Arunachal Pradesh Police rescued the abducted civilians from the jungles of village Bogapani, Tirap.
The rescued person includes Headmaster Government Middle School and a civilian. These two civilian were abducted by NSCN (IM) on the night of Nov 3 from Noksan Colony, Deomali.
19 Assam Rifles got wind of abduction and in conjunction with Arunachal Pradesh Police a column was launched to carry out extensive search of village Bogapani.
The column identified the hut in the jungle of village Bogapani where these abducted persons were kept. The column proceeded to establish the cordon around the hut when the column was fired upon by the UG group.
Assam Rifles column also retaliated by firing. Column chased the cadres but due to dense forest and poor visibility the cadres managed to run away and melted into the jungle. Thorough search of area in and around hut was carried out, thereafter the column entered inside the hut and noticed two civilian with their hands and legs tied.
During the search of hut the column recovered an extortion note signed by Self Styled Col Hormi Tangkhul of NSCN (IM).
Initial interaction with the rescued civilian has revealed that these civilian were kept in a miserable conditions in jungle. The cadres had threatened the family members of the abducted persons of dire consequences if they informed Security Forces about the incident.
Union objects to tour of London
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: Arunachal Pradesh Vigilance & Anti-
Reacting to the news item under the heading ‘ Arunachal Delegation in World Travel Market London’ the Union further objected to the inclusion of one David Sangtam, a tour operator from Nagaland in Arunachal Delegation.
The Union had earlier questioned the State Tourism Department vide memo No. APVACU/2011/11 Dated 28th Oct 2011 if any selection process was followed. The Union also wanted to know why David Sangtam who is from Nagaland was selected to represent Arunachal State when there are many Arunachalee tribal youths capable of representing the state at World Travel Market London. Till date the no reply has been received from the Tourism Department which only enforces the notion that something is fishy, it said.
All Arunachal Tour Operators Association has also been questioned as to why they are mum when such illegalities and misappropriation is happening in front of their eyes.
APVACU would be compelled to go for P.I.L. to stop corruption and mis utilization of funds under State Tourism Department and it would also review the pending court case of illegal appointments made in the year 2009 by the Department.
Nyiko Bachao Forum responds to unhappy PRIs and GBs
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: Nyiko Bachao Forum (NBF) responding to a news item "PRIs and GBs
Unhappy with the Meeting" said that the meetings that were conducted at Jomlo Mobuk
(Pessing) and Logum-
The meeting was addressed by renowned social activists and environmentalists from
across the nation. And all the invited speakers were all resourceful persons having
exclusive knowledge about social and environmental impacts of mega dams. In their
respective deliberations, they elaborately educated the public about the harsh environmental
and social impacts of the mega dam that might be consequential to the execution of
the said project. The main intention of both the meetings were to impart the factual
knowledge about the impacts of the dam in Siyom-
The NBF said that “even if the organizers had given chance to all these unhappy GBs & PRIs to address the gatherings in spite of acute time constraints and hectic schedule, would they have been able to draw logical and legal conclusion and impart the factual knowledge about the impacts of mega dam to the general public”
“If unhappy PRIs and GBs opinion was to oppose the LSHEP than the question of being 'Unhappy' does not arise since the meeting itself was conducted to oppose the construction of LSHEP. However if 'unhappy' PRIs &GBs still has got some innovations to oppose the project it is not necessary that PRIs &GBs should presents their opinion in the meetings only. They have got so many liberties where they can express in any form so as to impart the awareness among the people of their respective Banggo about the consequences of the mega dams”, it said.
The NBF strongly urged upon the 'unhappy group' to refrain themselves from giving
such a confusing and controversial press statement just to draw cheap publicity,
and if the unhappy group consider themselves as Pro-
Further, Nyiko Bachao Forum (NBF) strongly expressed their resentment on the Public Notice issued by the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Rumgong directing all government employees to refrain themselves from anti governments activities.
The NBF said that “as a responsible citizen of the society, ADC must know the fact
primarily, and whosoever participated in the Anti-
It urged the ADC Rumgong to have a moral sense before issuing such directives to the fellow citizens in near future.
Kebang to celebrate Anglo-
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: The Centenary Year of the Anglo-
The villages of Kebang circle including Kebang, Yemsing, Babuk, Rottung, Kallek,
Pangi and Sissen besides some other villages which were part of conglomeration of
greater Kebang village like Renging under Pasighat circle and Mirem village under
Bilat circle who were earlier inhabitants of Miising village (now abandoned) will
also be involved in the two-
To make the celebration a grand success, the Committee has made a fervent appeal to all the officers/public leaders having their origin in the concerned villages to come up with liberal contribution.
Further, it appealed to all the Adi people of Arunachal Pradesh and all Arunachalees to come up with suggestions to make the programme a success.
As part of the commemoration, the Committee is also going to release a souvenir.
In this direction, the Committee is also inviting articles on British-
The contributors are requested to send their writing pieces to Kaling Borang, Pasighat and R N Koley, Asstt Director, Research (Cul) at Itanagar.
ALSU concerned by encroachment
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: Arunachal Law Students’ Union (ALSU) conducted its first phase of survey to assess the magnitude of encroachment of Government land within Itanagar area.
ALSU claimed that many startling facts on Govt land encroachment have been revealed during the survey.
“It has been verified through photographic evidence and personal interaction with illegal encroachers that, the menace of Govt land encroachment is rampant in entire Itanagar.” ALSU said.
“It has also been observed that, Govt. officers from the top to bottom level are found involved in encroachment. Government quarters/ bungalows, which have been officially allotted to those govt. servants have been encroached by the allottee's themselves, it said.
The Government Inspection Bungalow in Itanagar has vanished without a trace, ALSU said. The departments concerned are suspected to have been involved in the illegal activity as some of encroachers have been reportedly issued land allotment papers. On the other hand, the administrators of Capital Complex are in deep slumber while the encroachment was going on unabated.
ALSU led by its Secretary General will be conducting the second phase of its drive against illegal encroachment of Govt. land from Naharlagun to Nirjuli soon and the union sought cooperation and support from all.
Amar Sangno
The horrifying bridge collapse incident at Seppa on 29 October last claimed many lives and left Arunachal in a state of shock. The devastating incident left many homes waiting for their beloved ones to return and for many it was the end of the journey. Many lost their lives while collecting seasonal insects locally called Tari (Gandhi –puk) on the hanging bridge.
As in such tragedies, heroes emerge. Seppa was no different as few local youths from nowhere had emerged as ‘saviour’ of many lives while risking their own.
Ashok Rang and Bharat Rang along with their two other friends Marchi Kocho and Disam Kocho all from Rang village under Seppa circle rescued more than twenty lives with help of their wooden boat during the fateful evening. Ashok Rang, the boat owner recounted the horrible scene that unfolded after bridge collapse to this correspondent.
“It was around 4:30 pm when we were loosening our fishing net on wooden boat about 300 metres upstream from hanging bridge. We saw bridge swinging, crowded with hundreds of people on it collecting tari, but such scene are usual during tari season”, he says.
It is believed that fishes are enamoured by Tari and come out for it in large numbers, especially when cloud of insects fly towards downstream of river. Considering it as festive fishing period normally many local youths come out to fish.
Suddenly they heard deafening screams and shrieking of women and children. To their horror, they saw the bridge partly submerged inside the river with hundreds of human floating and fluttering on it just like a scene from the movie Titanic.
Still dazed at what was happening, we hurriedly moved towards the collapsed bride and started rescuing people who were fighting against death, Ashok recounted.
The friends managed to rescue four with critical injuries and another twenty people.
“I never saw such a horrific and chaotic scene and I don’t want to see it ever again” says a shaken Ashok.
If there were more boats or good swimmers, many could have been saved” he says.
The casualty could have been more if it was not for these brave hearts.
One more hero is a youth identified as Lohit Sangdo of 28 years old of Hamba Pinda village, who was also on the bridge when it collapsed. Unmindful of the injury in the chest he sustained as the bridge fell, the young man managed to rescue more than ten people.
Narrating the horrible incident, Sangdo said that everything happened at a zippy and there was no time to run.
“One moment we were on the bridge and the next, we were in the middle of the river” he says still shaken.
First he rescued two children and later went back to the river in an effort to save more lives. He repeated the act many times, until he fainted.
Pola Kamchi, a survivor says that he crawled back from the death knell because of Takang Blange of Lachung Yangje village who rescued him along with 10 others. Blange informed this correspondent over telephone that he was loitering around the bridge with friends when the incident occurred.
According to him there was a warning sound before bridge collapsed however it gave no time to react. It happened so quickly that nobody realized the danger, he says.
Blange managed to save Pola Kamchi, Chai Kocho, Tokfung Liyak, Mepung Bagang, Feham Kocho and many others.
There are many brave women like Babe Raing of 25 and Apong Pangia Weshi 18 years who fought back death and successfully swam to the bank despite being hurt.
Regrettably the dark evening treacherously hampered the local youth rescue operation team which resulted in many deaths, most of whom were women and children.
All these young men rushed to the help of others unmindful of consequences and they just did what their inner conscience urged them to do. Only time will tell whether the services of these young people will be recognised formally, but their bravery that saved scores of precious lives will not be forgotten and it will continue to inspire generations.
(For any feedbacks and comments regarding the incident, writer can be reached at amarsangno@gmail.com or at 9436675445)
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: On the wee hours of Nov 4, a thief barged into the hostel kitchen room of Guardian Angel School, Itanagar and took away the gas cylinder at around 2.36 am. However, the misdeed of this young and good looking thief was caught in a CCTV camera without his knowledge.
The thief entered the kitchen at around 2.32 am and went out only to return back after few minutes to give final shape of his plan. CCTV camera footage shows that the thief did not show any interest in other kitchen materials like utensils. However, on receiving a formal complaint from school authority, the Itanagar police personnel visited the spot and investigation is on to nab the thief.
Earlier in May, thieves also took away the valuable materials from school hostel.
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: The Arunachal Pradesh Literary Society (APLS) has organized a condolence meeting at the conference hall of JN State Museum here today to pay its rich tributes to Dr Bhupen Hazarika – the cultural doyen of North East India.
APLS vice president Tage Tada led the members in paying their last respects to the music legend and, two minutes silence was also observed as a mark of reverence to the departed soul.
While remembering his close associate – Bhupenda, State’s famous singer Hemanta Bengia, who was also present at the condolence prayer, described the iconic figure as an exponent of integration between the neighbouring states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
While expressing deep shock over the passing away of Dr Hazarika, the president of Siang Literary Forum, Kaling Borang, on behalf of Adi Agom Kebang and Adi Cultural & Literary Society, described him as cultural ambassador of India.
Extending his deep sense of sorrow on receiving the news of Bhupen Hazarika’s expiry, the advisor of Shree Shree Shankardev Kristi Kendra, Girin Tamuly termed him “living exponent of Indian music”.
In the meantime, the chairperson of Oju Welfare Association (OWA), Binny Yanga (Maya) has expressed her deep sense of sadness over the death of music maestro, Dr Bhupen Hazarika.
Recalling the contributions of the legendary figure, she said, “We can never forget the pivotal role played by him in uniting the North East India. As a matter of fact, Bhupenda’s soulful music made a lasting impression on the people of North East and abridged the entire region in one thread through his unforgettable compositions.”
Further, she prayed to almighty god saying may the soul rest in peace.
SHG Bank Linkage training programme at Ziro
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: The NABARD sponsored SHG Bank Linkage training programme was conducted
at the initiation of Young Mission Adventure Club (YMAC), Capital based N.G.O at
Bamin Home stay run by SHG group of Siibey village on Nov 1-
There were 35 participants who attended the training programme with an objective
to develop community based rural tourism through SHG-
Hence, after successful implementation of capacity building training programme of tourism activities at Ziro, most of the unemployed youths and poor farmer wants to develop rural tourism(Home stay) but due to financial problem, they can’t start their entrepreneur, so Bank have agreed to give loan and subsidy to the SHG who want to develop the home stay at Ziro.
T.Thongdok,Managing, Director(MD),ArunachalPradesh Cooperative Apex Bank Ltd, highlighted the present guidelines of the Apex Bank and advised the home stay operator to avail the loan provided by the Bank to start tourism related activities.
Former Minister D.K Thongdok cited the example of Bangladesh where the SHG’s have
found success stories. Further, he advised the participants to explore the tourism
potential of the state in particularly in the Ziro area in order create self-
After successful completion of the one year Community Based Eco-
Content refinement for e-
PASIGHAT, Nov 6: One day consultative workshop on Farmer-
45 farmers from the Nagorlung village participated and e-
The content for this project is developed by the research team led by Dr. R. Saravanan,
Principal Investigator of the e-
Dr. B.N. Hazarika, Dean of the College of Horticulture and Forestry, CAU explained
the background and methodology of the e-
He informed that series of farmer participatory content refinement workshop will be held in few more villages in East Siang district involving local farmers.
The discussions were moderated by the Dr. A.S. Mailappa, Assistant Professor (Soil
Science) and Co-
Dr. Bhanuprakash Mishra, Centre Co-
During the interaction, farmers emphasised to integrate indigenous technical knowledge in the appropriate topics. Farmers also appreciated the idea behind the project to provide Adi language voice over for the information in the touch screen.
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: A meeting was held on November 5 at Hayuliang Community Hall regarding conduction of block level and district level sports competition under Panchayat Yuwa Krida aur Khel Abhiyan (PYKKA).
The meeting took place under the chairmanship of C.S Jeinow, Deputy Commissioner Anjaw district.
The meeting was attended by Panchyat leaders, sportspersons, T Tapo BDO in charge Manchal block, S Bellai Circle officer Chaglagam and other government officials.
Mala Linggi, the district sports officer, Anjaw made a detailed presentation about Panchayat Yuwa KridaAur Khel Abhiyan explaining its salient features and the vision behind the scheme.
It was explained that the scheme had been launched to create sports infrastructure at village Panchayat level so that children and youth are attracted to Sporting Culture. She also mentioned that it needs to develop a pool of Sporting talent among the youths so that the potential of each Sportsperson is realized.
A block level committee was formed for conducting block Level Sports Competition.
The organizing secretaries of each block have been requested to submit their participation lists for the District Level competition to District Sports Officer by 21st of this month. At district level competition, the five disciplines namely track & field, volleyball, kabaddi, badminton and football will be organized.
All the competition will be conducted as per the rules laid down by the National
Sports Federation of the concern disciplines at the district level competition. Over
all Championship of First, Second & Third at District Level Competition will be awarded
cash prize of rupees 40,000/-
18 NE children to march to Delhi
Shillong, Nov 6: Eighteen children representing multiple facets of vulnerability from the seven Northeastern states will take a rail yatra to New Delhi to urge the Union government to implement its commitment to allocate nine per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP) for health and education.
These children under the NINEISMINE or ‘Badhte Kadam III’ campaign will start the yatra from St Edmund’s here on November 8.
These children will take along with them nine demands of the NINEISMINE as they travel
through nine states in India to reach the national capital on child rights day on
November 20 to engage with parliamentarians to seek fulfillment of the ‘nine.’ Co-
Brother Steve of St Edmund’s, who is the coordinator for the NINEISMINE here, told reporters that 18 children from the north east (nine of whom bear disabilities), nine from Trivandrum and nine from Kanyakumari will halt at various states along their route to New Delhi.
The NINEISMINE campaign by the children was to make people in India to listen to them even though they are not the voters and hear their voices, he said.
''The Prime Minister had promised in 2004 in the common minimum programme to fulfill the demands and the NINEISMINE campaign wanted that the government should include this six per cent allocation for education and 3 per cent for health in the next year budget of the country,'' Bro Steve said.
The NINEISMINE campaign was launched by more than 4,500 children in Delhi, on October 16, 2006, is a participatory children’s advocacy initiative.
This initiative of children, schools communities and organisations across all states and union territories of India is being led by 'Wada Na Todo Abhiyan' (WNTA), a national campaign to hold the government accountable to its promise to end poverty, social exclusion and discrimination, toward meeting the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). UNI
Deputy speaker, orgs condole deaths
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: Deputy Speaker Tapang Taloh expressed deep shock at the untimely demise of former APCS officer Tadam Taki, who died in a fatal road accident near Silapathar yesterday. Two other persons, namely, Rotom Kamgo of Kamba village, West Siang and Pradip Biswakarma of Misamari were also killed in the accident.
Arunachal Vikas Parishad have condoled the death of prominent social worker Rutum Kamgo in a road accident yesterday.
In its condolence message, the AVP president Pratik Potom said that the Kamgo was an active social worker and was working as a convener of Indigenous Faith & Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP),and General Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh Charitable Trust(APCT) when he passed away.
His service for the last thirty years for preservation, protection and promotion of indigenous faith & traditions of our state would be remembered for a long time.
Lobom Welfare Society (LWS) has condoled the premature demise of Rutum Kamgo.
Late Rutum is survived by his wife and sons. He was born in 1961, he did his schooling from Kamba and Sainik School, Rewa Madhya Pradesh.
He was a social worker and worked with RSS, Arun Vikask Parishad, Arun Shiksha Samity,
Arunachal Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society, Donyi-
The members prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and also prayed almighty god to bestow strength and courage to the family members of the deceased.
The members also condole the demise of Tadam Taki and Pradeep Biswakarma who died along with Rutum in the same tragic accident yesterday.
Meanwhile, the members expressed their gratitude to youths and public of Silapathar town including BYCC Silapathar President Usman Ali, Arunachal Pradesh state unit RSS Organizing Secretary Pradeep Joshi for their cooperation and help during the incident.
Anggong Society, Itanagar expressed deep shock over the tragic death of Tadam Taki.
Untimely death of social activist Late Taki is a great loss to the Kuri clan in particular and Adi society in general, the Society said.
Advisory on use of Suspension Bridges
Recently an accident occurred in Arunachal Pradesh at Seppa in East Kameng district. A 50 meter long suspension bridge totally collapsed when over 60 people climbed on it to collect a particular type of edible insect which appears at this time of the year. Luckily a boat was in the river which had come in handy in rescuing several people. However 14 people went missing and 3 dead bodies were recovered by rescue teams. To avoid such accident which occurred merely due to the lack of knowledge of local people firstly we should know about suspension bridges and after that spread awareness to avoid such accidents on suspension bridges.
Suspension bridges are one of the earliest types of bridges developed by man. Simple suspension bridges for use by pedestrian and livestock are still being used using design based upon the ancient times. These bridges are made up of towers and a bridge deck that is supported by cables made of steel nowadays. Due to low cost and ability to be used over waterways and deep gorges, these bridges have been extensively used in hill areas to connect villages across rivers, streams and gorges.
As regards to safety precautions on use of suspension bridges following points must
be adhered to prevent any mishappening due to bridge collapse:-
(a) Suspension bridges are flexible structures that are designed to sway with the wind. However due to their lightweight nature, they may sway too dangerously in extreme conditions and are unsafe to use until extreme weather passes.
(b) Regular maintenance and inspection of bridge parts cables, decking and towers is essential as small flaws have been known to collapse the bridge.
(c) Each bridge is designed for particular type of load. It is essential that unauthorized
loading of bridge is prohibited (eg-
(d) Maximum load carrying capacity of the bridge should be clearly displayed at both ends by the manufacturer and same should not be violated. For pedestrian bridge, maximum numbers of people at one time should be clearly displayed.
(e) For extra safety use of safety nets under the bridge is recommended in past these nets has saved many lives in case of accidental failure of decking or someone falling off from bridge.
(f) Due to very simple design and low cost there are no added or secondary safety features in suspension bridge. If one member fails the complete structure fails. It is recommended that state agencies provide additional safety net below the bridge especially in high use areas to prevent mishaps as one under reference. If not permanent the same may be fixed during festivals etc. This would have saved all these lost lives.
(g) Daily commuters should note any breakages, deformation, crack or rusting etc of the bridge parts as habit and report immediately if found any. In case of any damage found to bridge it should be immediately closed to traffic till repairs is done.
(h) Suspension bridge normally sway and make sound when one is moving on them. People moving should not panic and run which may lead to serious accidents.
(j) Bridges serviceability and durability tests must be regularly conducted by responsible agencies and corrective measures taken to ensure safety of users.
(k) Due to non-
Tea producing societies (SHGs) in N.E.: an alternative for sustenance
Rima Taipodia
The emergence of Small Tea Growers (STGs) is very recent (A Small Tea Grower is defined
by the Tea Board of India with a landholding up to 25 acres or 10.12 hectares). This
is so primarily because; most of the land suitable for tea plantation was already
occupied by the Large Tea Plantations (Tea Estates) in the 19th and the first half
of the 20th century. These can be called the traditional areas of tea cultivation,
whereas STGs gardens have emerged beyond the traditional tracts of tea cultivation.
Though, such gardens emerged in early 1960s in India, their concentration was mainly
found in South Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. It is only in late
1980s or early 1990s that these spread to the leading tea-
ASSAM: In Assam, 68,465 STGs annually produce 400 million kg of tea leaves and offload
the bulk to BLFs. But 450 estate factories source 377 million kg of tea leaves from
STGs besides producing 1,623 million kg themselves. Officials underscored the need
to rein in the BLFs -
Small tea growers (STGs) in Assam account for 14% of India’s total tea production. On the flip side, their productivity has been a factor in Indian tea losing its international brand image. The first survey of tea grown in the unorganised sector has also revealed a link between the success story of small tea growers and the mushrooming growth of ‘bought leaf factories’ (BLFs) leading to output leakage. BLFs are standalone units distinguished from factories owned by major tea estates. The quality loss of Assam tea linked with uncontrollable rise of small tea growers and BLFs was the primary driver of this survey. So was gap between production of tea leaves and processed tea, both CTC (crush, tear, curl) and orthodox. Assam produces the most CTC tea in the world.
ARUNACHAL PRADESH: Arunachal Pradesh has taken a lead over the other non-
NAGALAND: In Nagaland, small scale tea cultivation has been taken up as an alternative to jhum cultivation. Tea Board has given registration to 2753 small farmers covering an area of 19264.36 hectares.
MANIPUR: Of late in Manipur, number of NGOs has been promoting small farmers to take up tea plantations. 484 small tea growers covering an area of 1362.61 hectares have been registered by Tea Board.
TRIPURA: Besides 58 big tea estates, There are about 1,500 registered small tea growers
and 11 workers’ co-
KARBI ANGLONG (ASSAM): This Autonomous District has hill areas having gentle slopes and the entire district is suitable for tea cultivation. There are 302 small tea growers registered with Tea Board having a total tea area of 1952.57 ha.
N. C. HILLS DISTRICT (ASSAM ): Tea Board has given registration to 3 projects and one small tea grower for planting tea for an area of 709.54 ha.
MIZORAM: So far, there are 697 registered small tea growers covering an area of 1934.34 hectares processing in traditional methods and marketed locally.
As per the Tea Board sources, there are 126,256 STGs with a collective holding of
106,748 hectares and roughly contribute around twenty-
Tea Board of India formally adopted the concept STGs during the Eighth Plan Five
Year Plan. It should be mentioned here that most of the STGs irrespective of different
regions in India are not registered with the Tea Board of India. There is a large
difference between the Tea board data and the field data from the different STGs
Associations in different states. It is also evident from the field that most of
the marginal-
The unorganized nature of STGs, low economies of scale, low bargaining strength,
interior or remote location, uneven distribution of Bought Leaf Factories, absence
of specified business linkage between Bought-
On the other hand, this kind of development and expansion of STGs gardens have provided new forms of employment and livelihood opportunities for the rural people in the backward areas/districts in the N.E.region. Unlike the estate gardens, STGs employ workers from their immediate surrounding villages. Seasonal outmigration has lessened in the plantation villages and people find work in the vicinity. In fact, dependent of estate garden workers migrate to STGs gardens to find employment and livelihood. More than 4.15 lakh families are directly engaged with STGs gardens today and approximately a total of 2 million people including their dependents derive their livelihood. There is a wide range of relations exists in these gardens: to mention a few like family labour, hired labour, seasonal labour, migrated labour etc. Situations are little complex to think of a singly legislation. Here people are more participatory as compared to enclave economies of colonial plantations.
(The writer is a STO, scholar(Botany), specialized in Tea Husbandry and technology sponsored by TEA BOARD OF INDIA and former tea consultant to the state planning department govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar)
Union to shut govt offices
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: Dibang Adi Students' Union (DASU) has said that it will shut down all the Govt. Office/ Semi Govt. Office on Nov 9 to press for arrests of those involved in assault of DDSE.
It said that authority is yet to trace those who involved in the assault despite passage of time. It threatened to launch more agitations if the accused were not nabbed.
DASU however said that the essential services and Police station & magistrates office, Schools, State Bank of India, Roing Branch, Market & road and Private offices would be out of the purview of the shut down agitation.
Committee hopes
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: Nyokum Lapang Welfare Committee has expressed hope that new chief minister Nabam Tuki with his long political experience will take state to new height of development in years to come.
The committee further expressed gratitude to chief minister and also to Taba Tedir, director cum chief engineer urban development department for taking initiatives in carpeting the Nyokum Lapang sector road.
Meanwhile Committee has strongly condemned the cowardice act of burning down the PWD, SE Cordination officer, Itanagar and transports buses by miscreants. They have demanded immediate arrest of the culprit and urged for strong punishment as per the law of land.
Farmer’s exposure trip
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: Rural Development and Heritage Society, Sangram has conducted three
days training cum exposure programme on Mushroom cultivation at KVK, ICAR, Research
Complex, Jhernapani, Nagaland from November 2-
Altogether 20 farmers attended the programme sponsored by NABARD, Regional Office, Itanagar.
Besides mushroom cultivation training, the team also visited Poultry farm, Piggery, Fish integerated farming, Rabbit and Vermicompost unitand other farming units and bought five pairs of Rabbit from the institute for research purposes.
The team was led by RDHS Chairman Tamchi Niania and the training programme was attended by Kikom Joseph and Anamica Sharma as resource persons.
Silver Jubilee celebration
PASIGHAT, Nov 6: The Central Donyi-
According to the Organizing Secretary Oyin Moyong, the state’s Chief Minister Nabam
Tuki is expected to inaugurate the three days celebration as Chief Guest and more
than four thousands delegates would participate in several competitions including
traditional games & sports, folk dance, dance on Angun Bedang (Holy prayer book),
modern dances in addition to mega dance scheduled to be performed by the students
of Kasturba Gandhi School. There will be Science-
Many organizations like DRDO, ISRO, Indian Railways, IOC and many states Government establishments and local bodies are expected to exhibit their stalls for consecutive eight days from Dec 1 next.
World Sunday School Day
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: The Sunday School Department of Christian Revival Church Naharlagun
has joined the rest of the world in celebrating the World Sunday School Day today
amidst fanfare and prayers. Songs and dances by tiny-
Young singer Toku Joseph and his team enthralled the audience with their numbers. The speaker of the day Otel Pertin, Women Secretary of the church dwelt on the importance of the day and advised students to be sincere and disciplined.
A prayer session for young Sunday school children was led earlier by Missionary of the church Rev. Dr. N. Tasar.
Among others, APCRCC vice-
Id-
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: Arunachal Pradesh Governor General (Retd.) J.J. Singh has extended
his warm greetings to all the people of Arunachal Pradesh on the auspicious occasion
of Id-
In his festival message, the Governor has expressed his hope that the festival, which commemorates the spirit of supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Ibrahim will reinforce our faith in Almighty God.
General Singh wished that the sacred occasion strengthen bonds of our composite culture and instill love and compassion in the heart of every Arunachalee.
Chief Minister Nabam Tuki also has wished the people of Arunachal Pradesh, especially
followers of Islam, a very happy and special Id-
“Id-
Also called Bakrid, Id-
“This is a lesson for all of us. We should realize that nothing can be achieved in life without sacrifice and when we stand upright during testing times, we will emerge winners. Arunachal Pradesh is passing through a testing time. Let’s sacrifice our selfish and petty differences and emerge winners,” Tuki beckoned.
3 houses gutted
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: Three houses were gutted in a fire accident at 5/1, Banderdewa today. The fire was brought under control before spreading to other nearby houses with the help of local people and Govt staff here after great effort, according to Banderdewa Karsingsa Youth Welfare Association
Meanwhile, the association appealed to the state Government to provide immediate relief to the poor victims for their quick rehabilitation.
Nocte Chiefs urges CM to address Tirap problems
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: The Nocte chiefs’ council, apex body of all the Nocte chiefs of Tirap district, appealed Chief Minister Nabam Tuki to address the burgeoning insurgency problem and other plethora of problems confronting Tirap district with a greater degree of seriousness.
It has hailed the elevation Nabam Tuki as the chief minister of the state and expects that he would deliver the goods through effective governance. Khamwang Lowang hoped that the state would march ahead steadily in the path of development under his leadership. He said that expedient execution of work on the mega projects initiated by the state government should invariably be Tuki’s top priority adding that creation of congenial atmosphere and restoration of peace and harmony, especially in the aftermath of the recent unfortunate violence in the capital, would be one of the challenges of the new CM.
He urged all the people to extend their fullest cooperation to the state government headed by Tuki and opined that the recent mindless violence and unrest should be forgotten as a bad dream and move on unitedly for progress and prosperity of the state.
Four houses gutted down
ITANAGAR, Nov 06: Four houses were gutted down in a fire accident at Nyokum Colony, Banderdewa.
Meanhile, All Nyishi Youth Association visited the spot and appealed to the local MLA to contribute financial help to the fire accident victims.
APESA appeal
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: The Arunachal Pradesh Engineering Service Association (APESA), a
constituent of India Engineers’ Federation (INDEF), in the executive body meeting
held at Naharlagun on Nov 4 unanimously appealed to the state Govt to ban creation
of engineering wings in the non-
While advocating for creation of secretary/engineer-
The house also condemned the burning down of PWD SE coordinator office and state transport buses and reported attempt to burn down Bobia circle PWD office at Papu Nallah. It appealed the state Govt, particularly district administration to ensure safety and security of citizens and their properties and nab the culprits responsible for shameful act immediately.
It further hoped that the new Govt under the experienced leadership of Nabam Tuki will take the state to new height of development.
Meanwhile, the house decided to send delegates to the two days INDEF NER conference scheduled to be held at Cherapunji, Meghalaya from Nov 10.
Youth convention
ITANAGAR, Nov 6: All Kurung Kumey District Students’ Union (AKKDSU) has decided to organize a six days Kurung Kumey youth convention at Koloriang from January 20 next.
News Impact
Problems of Tali and Pipsorang
Dear Editor,
I, would like to draw the attention of the state Govt towards the difficulties being faced by the people of Tali and Pipsorang circle due to lack of development in all fronts.
It is most unfortunate that the people of Tali area are deprived of proper road communication, health care facilities, education, water supply and more importantly the PDS even after 23 years of its existence. Moreover, it takes 3 to five days to reach Tali. These are the reasons why the people of Tali and Pipsorang are migrating in different places like Ziro, Daporijo and Capital Complex.
Therefore, I request the state Govt to pay special attention to Tali assembly constituency and extend all possible help to MLA Markio Tado in his endeavor to develop Tali area. I further request the organizations to highlights the grievances of the people of Tali area and also request the common people extend cooperation with the MLA.
Lastly, I would like to request the New CM to give priority on early completion of
the ongoing Tali-
Yours’
Lingdum Taha
RTI secretary, (AAPSU)
Fishes of the same pond of corruption
Dear Editor,
On October 20, at 10:30 am, BJP leader LK Advani lands at Lilabari airport. Takes another flight, reaches Naharlagun. Gives big lectures to a crowd of 5000 people assembled by political vehicles in Arunachal. Speaks loudly Arunachal Pradesh integral part of India.
No doubt Arunachal Pradesh is a dummy state of India, where since the last 30 years
an entire generation has been brain-
LK Advani and his party BJP is as corrupt as Congress party, the thing is BJP is out of power now and trying hard to come to power.
No political leader in India is honest. Everyone comes to politics to loot public money.
"Jan Chetna Yatra" is nothing but the old man’s last efforts to be the Prime Minister of India.
Many innocent were killed in secret killings by army and burried at unknown places,
women and children were also not spared in Assam when he was the Home Minister of
India. How cruel this man can be we know from Babri masjid demolition riots back
in 1992-
One reason is also people are lazy and love holidays. But Nagaland and Mizoram people donot want such holidays, except on their traditional festival day.
Yours,
Ngurang Ajo
Itanagar, (on email)
Confusing the confused!
Dear Editor,
I have noted constant requests made to the APPSC authorities regarding rescheduling / postponing of examinations in the Readers Forum of your daily; and this has been a regular habit on the part of aspirants not only of this Mains but of many previous synonymous examinations. They are usually followed by a protest cum demand from some vestigial Student Unions who would unwantedly loiter around shouting and derive nothing but unreal fame and some space in this Daily. Although such articulation is a gesture of good will from the side of the aspirant, seldom is it convincing. I have my own reservations, per se. Firstly that such request is a perennial source of confusion for the already confused APPSC authorities. It is never wise to make the moody more fickle.
I can recall the APPSC board succumbing to the demands of some Student Union and
postponing the dates of the previous APPSC preliminary exam solely because the date
of UGC-
That, secondly, the APPSC has been set up to run almost like a parallel Government, so as to not confuse it with any other Government Department and to emphasize its difference and so that the Public Service Commission may not confuse itself in the delivery of its target. It has its own programmes to endeavor but seldom has it succeeded in giving a satisfactory feat as well as timely schedule for conducting its exams. To refresh our memories, even the recently held preliminary was actually a tentative schedule. On top of this if I am not misinformed; the APPSC Mains students are yet to get their dates till this day. Apart from this I believe blunders such as the recently held DSO/RO exams will totally be checked.
The issues highlighted by Karto Riba in ‘APPSCE and Decisions’ (Dtd.01.11.2011) is a very valid explanation of why APPSC do not enjoy reputation and has consequently become a synonym of eccentricity. I must add here, that, had Indologist Vincent Smith been fortunate to live today, am sure he would have quoted the words ‘mixture of opposites’ for the APPSC rather than Muhammad Bin Tughlaq.
That, thirdly, there are many departments and institutions apart from APPSC that conduct examinations round the year. Every one of them has their schedule and yes! Quite often they overlap each other. The APPSC should note that it is always in the preference of the candidate wherein the priority lies. The choice of recklessly hopping from one exam after another can neither create the easement for the candidates to request a particular examination date as per their personal convenience nor should it be the criteria for the APPSC to succumb to such behest. Two months prior notice is the present standing rule and as such APPSC is vey clean on it. As far as the aspirants are concern, APPSC is an exam that commands everybody’s interest and it would be ridiculous to think that confirmation of a positive preliminary result kicks off your study race. There are many serious aspirants who are consistently trying to crack this exam and this limited ‘two month’ is actually what Louis Pasteur calls “the fortune for the prepared mind”.
Fourthly, to many, it is still unclear whether the marks of General Paper English is included in the total mark of Mains or not, or if it was just a qualifying paper (as is the trend with UPSC). This is something the candidates deserve to know. What happened in 2006 is altogether a blasphemy to the prestige we give to APPSC.
Lastly, it is my sincere request to all the APPSC aspirants and well wishers that
rather than creating undue pressure and poking at the authorities it would be wiser
to welcome their calculated decisions and respect their competency. I also intend
to wish all the APPSC Mains candidate the very best of preparation. Simultaneously,
I also request the APPSC authorities to clearly specify the date schedules vis-
Yours,
Darung Kaling
JNU, New Delhi, (on email)
One does not become leader by forming organisations
Dear Editor,
These days we have unexpected numbers of leaders in our society. By forming an organization a person does not become a leader. What we are missing here is that people are in a false impression, leaders are not born all of a sudden or having years of experience in the field of politics and so on.
Here is a story ‘once there was a young boy, a school dropout. After his father’s death he was absorbed as a sweeper against the job his father did. For many years he worked dedicatedly and kept the campus of the college very clean. If a student spits (paan) in front of him, he doesn’t complain or bully the student, he simply brings a bucket of water and cleans the surface. If he sees any paper or dirt lying on the ground, he simply picks it up and puts it in the dustbin. It went on for many years. The passed out students of many years, friends included and the local populace saw in him the leadership qualities and made him their leader who will look after the cleanliness of their town. It was learnt that the poor boy was elected as a member of the Municipality. What we see here is we don’t need to shout at the top of our voices and declare that I am a leader’. Your deeds / actions will make you one.
Yours
Abson Tana
Itanagar, (on email)
The AICC choice
Dear Editor,
I strongly object to Kiryi Potom’s comment alleging that the chair of chief minister has been forcibly snatched from Jarbom Gamlin which appeared in November 4 issue of your daily.
Everybody knows that Nabam Tuki was chosen as Gamlin’s successor by the Congress high command after latter stepped down.
If Mr. Potom had any reservation over the issue, he should have opposed it before Tuki was appointed as Chief Minister. Notably, Tuki was declared fit for the post by the central observers’ team which was also conveyed to AICC chief.
Hence, the allegation leveled against Tuki and some Congress legislators Potom is unfounded.
I also appeal to the Chief Minister and Governor to hold discussion to contain the
prevailing law and order situation. It seems that some anti-
Yours,
Byabang Joram
Itanagar.
___________
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Fertilizer trees
Scientists at the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), a non-
Fertilizer trees, such as the acacia tree, capture nitrogen from the air and transfer
it to the soil in a process known as nitrogen-
"Four hundred thousand farmers in southern Africa are growing the trees to boost
their farm yields, and there are still millions of resource-
The study found that maize yields and farmers' incomes are significantly higher in areas where the trees are used. In Zambia, for example, incomes for farmers using fertilizer trees averaged US$230–330 per hectare, while those who did not use the trees earned just US$130. This increase in income provided food for up to 114 extra days.
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