The Arunachal Times - Archives

Assembly polls in Arunachal, other two states on Oct 13

New Delhi, Aug 31: Elections to the Legislative Assemblies of Haryana, Maharashtra and Arunachal Pradesh would be held on October 13, Chief Election Commissioner Naveen Chawla announced here today.

Announcing the schedule, Chawla said the counting of votes would be held on October 22.

The notification would be issued on September 18 and the last date for filing the nominations is September 25. Scrutiny would be held the next day and the last date for withdrawal of candidature is September 29.

He said the Model Code of Conduct would be in force with immediate effect.

While Arunachal Pradesh has a 60-member assembly, the Haryana Assembly has a strength of 90 members and the Maharashtra has 288.

Asked why elections to the Jharkhand Assembly were not being held, Chawla said as the Assembly was yet to be dissolved, the Election Commission could not have included Jharkhand in the poll plans.

Giving reasons for the gap of nine days between dates of polling and counting, he said due to Arunachal's difficult terrains, it would take time to collect the EVMs from all polling stations.

''Though the EC has provided for three helicopters for Arunachal, many polling parties have to cover places on foot,'' he explained.

On the Haryana government launching a huge advertising blitzkrieg about its scheme, the CEC said as the Model Code of Conduct comes into force from today, it would monitor that henceforth.

On security arrangements for the three Assembly polls, the CEC said depending on the ground situation, Central police forces and State Armed Police from other states would be deployed. ''The CPF and SAP will be used for safeguarding the polling stations and for providing security to the electors and polling personnel on poll day. They will be used for securing the strong rooms where the EVMs are stored and for securing the counting centers,'' he said.

There are 2,061 polling stations in Arunachal Pradesh, 12,894 in Haryana and 82,028 in Maharashtra.

As of now, there are 7,50,575 electors in Arunachal Pradesh, 1,20,63,257 (approximately) electors in Haryana and 7,56,34,525 electors in Maharashtra.

He said the electoral rolls were revised with reference to January one this year, as the qualifying date before the Lok Sabha Elections.

Though Arunachal Pradesh and Maharashtra elections were normally due to be held this year, the Commission once again ordered a special summary revision of the electoral rolls with the same qualifying date.

But in case of Haryana, a special revision was again undertaken in two assembly constituencies--Badshahpur and Gurgaon as there were complaints about omission of names in the electoral roll used for conduct of Lok Sabha elections.

The Electoral Rolls now have photos of the majority of electors in the roll.

These photo electoral rolls would be used in these States during the forthcoming elections for easy and correct identification of voters. Arunachal Pradesh has 87 per cent, Haryana 99 per cent and Maharashtra 73.28 per cent electors with photographs in the rolls.

Efforts are continuing to increase the photo coverage in the electoral roll during the continuous revision period and all the residual electors without photograph in the rolls are advised to contact their nearest Designated Photography Location (DPL) or the Electoral Registration Officer of their constituency.

Chawla said electors, who have been provided with EPIC, would be identified through EPIC only. Presently, AP has 88.42 per cent EPIC holders, followed by Haryana 99 per cent and Maharashtra 80.35 per cent. The poll in these states would be conducted at all polling stations using EVMs and the Commission has already made arrangements to ensure availability of adequate number of EVMs for the smooth conduct of elections.

For the benefit of physically challenged persons, he said instructions have been issued to ensure that all polling stations as far as practicable, are located at ground floor and ramps are provided.

Facilitation would also be provided for locating elector's names against a polling station or a group of polling stations through help lines and facilitation centers, he said.

The CEC said all critical events would be videographed and district Election Officers would arrange sufficient number of video and digital cameras and camera teams for the purpose.

He also said the Commission would deploy observers in adequate number to ensure smooth conduct of forthcoming general elections in these states.

The observers would be asked to keep a close watch on every stage of the electoral process to ensure free and fair elections. Their names, addresses within the district/constituency and their telephone numbers would be publicised in local newspapers so that the general public can quickly approach them for any grievance redressal. The observers would be given a detailed briefing by the Commission before their deployment.

Apart from general observers, the Commission would also deploy Micro-Observers to observe the proceedings at the polling station on the poll day in selective and critical polling stations.

Of 60 constituencies in Arunachal Pradesh, 59 are reserved for Scheduled Tribes and none for SC. In the 288 member Maharashtra Assembly, 29 seats are reserved for SC and 25 for ST. In Haryana, 17 of the 90 Assembly seats are reserved for SC and none for ST. UNI

Governor and Chief Minister greet people on the occasion of Solung

ITANAGAR, Aug 31: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Gen JJ Singh has extended festival greetings to all Arunachalees, particularly to the Adi community on the auspicious occasion of Solung festival and expressed his hope that the festival, which is the cornucopia of cultural and spiritual legacy of the community will usher contentment and tranquility in the society.

In his festival message, Gen Singh said, Solung, an agricultural festival of the Adi Community also symbolizes the rich cultural heritage of the community.

Offering prayers to Kine-Naane, Doying-Bote and Dadii-Bote to evoke their choosiest blessings for all, he added, with the rhythmic Ponung dances, rituals, exotic foods, merry-making and wholesome participation of the people, it brings the promises of happiness and prosperity.

Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu has also extended heartiest greeting to all, especially to the Adi community on the occasion of Solung.

He expressed his hope that the celebration will strengthen the emotional integration and foster the feelings of brotherhood and mutual understanding amongst the citizens and bring prosperity, happiness and tranquility in the society.

In his festival message, Khandu said, the celebration of Solung festival is the unique way of Adi community to pay their obeisance to Mother Nature for her benevolence to mankind.

On this pious occasion I pray Mother Nature to bless us with bumper harvest, peace, prosperity and good health, Khandu said and further appealed the people to preserve the unique traditional culture and lifestyle of Adi tribal community in particular and other tribes of the state as a whole.

Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) also extends Solung greetings to the Adi community. APCC hoped that the festival celebration will strengthen the feelings of brotherhood and mutual understanding amongst the citizens and bring prosperity, happiness and tranquility in the society.

Meanwhile, the Tawang district is all set for a massive solung celebration tomorrow at the Tourist Lodge, Tawang. Tawang is all geared up for the celebration informed Solung Committee Tawang members, Tojir Kadu and Tater Mize. Cultural troupes, dancers and the stage is all ready for the D- Day.

District level governors quiz competition

BOMDILA, Aug 31: ‘Ultimately it is the hard work and sincerity that pays-off’ said Deputy Commissioner Swati Sharma while attending the District Level Governors Quiz competition held at Government Higher Secondary School Bomdila on August 28 last.

Impressing upon the students on the importance of taking part in such activities, she said that excellence alone would make something out of the incumbent concerned in this competitive era.

She further said that teachers working with devotion and dedication could facilitate students achieve their cherished goals.

A total of 12 students, two each from Government Higher Secondary School Bomdila, Dirang and Rupa and two each from Government Secondary School Balukphong, Nafra and Singchung participated in the Quiz conducted by the Quiz Master Elsy T.T.The quiz consisted of 6 rounds, each having a minimum of 5 questions each from everyday Science, Social Science, Games and Sports, Current Affairs, Arts and Culture and on great personalities.

Sanathan Singha of class XII (Sc) and Lham Nirup of class XII (Com), both from Govt. H.S. School Bomdila stood first and they would be representing the district in the State Level Governor’s Quiz Competition’09 at Itanagar.

The participants from government higher secondary school Rupa and Dirang bagged the second and third position respectively.

Under-16 DN football tournament begins

CCFC trounce Upper Siang 9-1

Ojing Tayeng

ITANAGAR, Aug 31: The 1st Dera Natung under-16 state level football tournament began at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, Naharlagun today.

Speaking on the opening ceremony as Chief Guest local MLA Kipa Babu appreciated the organizing committee and advised to conduct free and fair tournament. He also advised the participating players to maintain qualities of a good sportsman.

Expressing concern over uses of alcohol and other health hazard substances by the under-aged youth in the state capital, Babu advised them to refrain from such bad habit and utilize their mental and physical abilities in developmental activities.

Higher and Technical Education Director, Dr. Joram Begi said that due to lack of infrastructure and opportunity, the state could not produce talent footballer so far.

Citing example of Manipuris, who have been showing excellent result in games and sport in national and international field, he said that people of Arunachal Pradesh had also equal physical and mentle abilities like their Manipuri counterpart to excel in this field. He, however, said that lack of technical and infrastructural support was main hurdle in the development of sports sector in the state.

Government and voluntary organizations’ cooperation would go a long way in achieving the desired result in this direction, he hoped.

He also asked the players to maintain sportsman spirit thorughout the tournament. While appreciating the organizing committee for conducting the tournament, he expressed the hope that it would give way to the younger footballer in national and international arena.

Dema Natung briefed about the achievement and history of former Minister Dera Natung and also appealed the players to exhibit their hidden talent.

The U-16 state team will be selected from the participating team of the tournament.

Meanwhile, Capital Complex Football Club (CCFC) drubbed Upper Siang 9-1 in the opener.

Loie Kena and Taba Rakesh of the CCFC scored four goals each and Nabam Juel also added one goal. The lone goal of Upper Siang team was scored by John Litin.

Pala attends Solung Trophy match

PASIGHAT, Aug 31: Ledum team defeated Runne team 3-0 in the final match of the Running Solung Trophy today.

Wilson Ering, Annu Padung and the highest scorer of the tournament, Matuni Padung scored one goal each for Ledum team.

Chief Guest of the ensuing Central Solung Festival Celebration’09 (CSFC) Union MoS WRD Vincent Pala gave away the Solung Trophy and certificates to the winning team.

MP Ninong Ering, congratulating the DFA President Osong Taknyo and Sports Officer G. Karbak, said that the youths have great potentiality in the field of sports, and also briefed about the need of sports infrastructure to expose the hidden talents.

The MP further informed that Odam Ering Football Tournament would begin from September 5 and announced Rs. 60,000 and Rs. 30,000 for winner and the runners-up team respectively.

Among other, local MLA Bosiram Siram, DC Onit Panyang, CSFC Executive members, officers, local leaders and school children witnessed the final match.

Later, at Siang Guest House SE, WRD Er. Angu and EE, WRD Er. Padung presented a Power-Point presentation on 2000 Siang flash flood and Sibokorong flood 2004 damages.

The union minister along with MP and DC Panyang also visited the Siang Bridge at Raneghat. DIPRO

Pinch joinsNCP

ITANAGAR, Aug 31: The clamour for party tickets is getting murkier with the announcement of dates for the ensuing assembly elections on October 13 next.

The aspirant candidates have started switching allegiance from one party to another on being deprived of party tickets by their parent party.

The ex-MLA, Doimukh, Ngurang Pinch, who joined the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) today on learning that his name has not been recommended by the INC party, told media persons that it would bolster his prospects in the ensuing elections as the people of his constituency were well aware of the development activities undertaken by him during the last five years.

Commenting on his decision to join the NCP as because it shared the same ideology with the Congress, Pinch, who won the last election as an independent, told media he felt being let down by the INC despite being an associate member of the INC. "I have nurtured the Doimukh constituency over the last five years," he said, adding, he would continue to receive their support under the NCP.

Senior NCP leader, Techi Necha, party general secretary, who himself is an aspirant candidate from Itanagar assembly constituency, termed it a good beginning for the NCP, which was gaining in strength after the visit by veteran NCP leaders like P A Sangma in recent times.

He informed that the Pradesh election committee would decide on the winnable prospects of all aspirant candidates before deciding on NCP tickets. He further scotched rumours that he had compromised with any other aspirant candidate from Itanagar assembly constituency, adding he was a forerunner among the party ticket aspirants.

Another aspirant candidate Techi Kaso, who also joined the NCP, said service motto towards the people of Itanagar was primarily behind his decision.

Others who joined the NCP included Tayu Jerang from Rumgong assembly constituency and Rode Bui, ex-president, BJP, Upper Subansiri district from Dumporijo.

Earlier, welcoming all into the NCP, the party general secretary Nabam Jollaw said that winnable chance of the candidates would be given preference while issuing party tickets.

He further denied there would be any rift within the NCP if some political heavyweights from other parties got tickets on their joining the NCP.

Resarun, the Research Journal comes out in new shape

ITANAGAR, Aug 31: Resarun-the ‘elusive’ journal, which has made a lot of difference through its contributions towards creating literary environs in the state, has stepped on to its 34th year in a new shape.

The new-look journal, brought out from the house of the Directorate of Research, has come up in an attractive package, leaving behind its ‘monotony’ of over three decades, thanks mainly to unstinted effort and constant persuasion of Tage Tada, director, who is also a pioneer archaeologist of the state.

During its more than three decades of existence, Resarun has been a pillar of strength for researchers, educationists and writers in different fields. Besides, it has added on towards the growth of literary activities in the state.

Being the mother-source of all literary creations, Resarun has, over the years, taken a heavy burden by dishing out rich contents to numerous writers and researchers. The journal has been a real source of inspiration for those who put pen to paper in real sense of the term simply due to the fact that it possesses ‘hard-to-get’ ingredients.

In its latest edition, the journal continues to serve in the same vein, though a lot is left to be desired as far as language is concerned.

Of the write-ups, a special mention must be made of Tage Tada, who has penned the article titled A Unique Discovery of Stone Sculpture at Itafort. Here, he has mentioned about the cultural influence of Ramayana on Arunachal Pradesh through findings of relics, believed to be of Sita and Hanuman. With more excavation at Itafort may further lead to Arunachal’s cultural association with epic age.

Credit should also be given to Batem Pertin for coming up with an article—Evolution of Administrative Development of Arunachal Pradesh since 1826: A Retrospect. Through the piece, he has beautifully illustrated the transition of administrative development for Arunachal spanning over 180 years.

Last but not the least, a special note of appreciation should go to R N Koley and K Lego for throwing light on social institutions of Adi society through their article titled Mythology Behind The Origin of Mushup.

That Bamboo dance is not only restricted to Nagas which is practiced by the Wanchos of Arunachal Pradesh can be known when you go through the article—Bamboo Dance of the Wanchos by Debotang Yupang.

APYC demands arrest of Kamin

A T News Service

ITANAGAR, Aug 31: Arunachal Pradesh Youth Congress (APYC) today demanded that Yachuli MLA Nikh Kamin be arrested immediately for his alleged involvement in forgery case to malign the image of APYC chief Likha Saaya.

Justifying its demand, APYC vice president Nabam Vivek told the media persons that Saaya had filed an FIR demanding investigation into the forgery case at Itanagar police station on June 8 without accusing anyone. But Kamin’s move to seek anticipatory bail on this forgery case (Case No 96/2009) clearly indicates that he was involved in forging the signature of the panchayat leaders who allegedly lodged a complaint before the high command alleging Saaya of anti-party activities, Vivek claimed. It may be mentioned here two ZPM and 4 ASMs had allegedly wrote to the party high command alleging the APYC chief of anti-party activities in Yachuli assembly segment during the last parliamentary election. However, the panchayat leaders denied their involvement saying they did not put their signatures on complaint letter and had said that their signatures were forged.

If Kamin is not on the wrong side of the law, why should he seek anticipatory bail from the court, Vivek questioned. Alleging involvement of the MLA in forgery case to malign the image of Saaya, the APYC vice president also urged the All India Congress Committee president Sonia Gandhi to expel the MLA for creating trouble within the Congress party.

Deopani Reserved Forest sought for de-reservation

Bishnu Rana

ROING, Aug 31: In the backdrop of serious environmental degradation and global warming, the issue of de-reservation is like a hard nut to crack for the concerned forest authority.

With the Central empowerment Committee (CEC) visiting the district recently for verification and evaluation of the de-reservation process of the ‘Reserved Forest’ (which was declared in year 1936 by the then British Govt.) right side of the NH-52 from Meka Tinali (Roing) to Kangkong village (nearest to Shantipur check gate) in Lower Dibang Valley as asserted by the inhabitant of this areas.

P V Jayakrishnan Chairman CEC also had a broad discussion with the villagers of Bolung and took the opinions and facts. He was accompanied by Roding Pertin, Y W Ringu DC, and V Negi PCCF Itanagar. He had compiled the actual report and submitted to the Supreme Court for final judgment.

Since the entire area at the beginning was declared as ‘Reserved Forest’ but in due course of time following human habitation and agriculture practices, the inhabitant of the this area approached the Supreme Court seeking de-reservation for economic prosperity, informs the sources.

“According to public request and their interest we apprised the issue in front of the Ministry of Forest & Environment (MoFE), Govt. of India for the clearance but the thing were gone delaying as the Supreme Court has completely restrained the power of the MoFE and handed over to newly form autonomous body CEC to look into crucial forest issues.

We have also submitted interlocutory petition in the Supreme Court for de-reservation when I was the Minister of Forest & Environment. Later with the intervention of Supreme Court assigned the CEC to find out the actual facts of de-reservation”, Roding Pertin Former Independent MLA reveals.

The people habitation have been observed since before the massive Sadiya earthquake in the year 1950 and still the area has failed to get de-reservation in spite of repeated plea. People of this area are also deprived off getting Land Possession Certificate (LPC) which is seriously hampering developmental activities and devoid from huge business investment, Pertin rues.

According to high level sources, earlier the Dibang Reserved Forest and Deopani Reserved Forest have been known to existence.

Later with the interference of the DC who is also the forest settlement officer of the undivided Dibang Valley renamed/ recommended the Dibang Reserved Forest as Senzen Reserved Forest (163 Sq. Km) and the Deopani Reserved Forest for de-reservation.

VAMBAY beneficiaries move CS

ITANAGAR, Aug 31: Most of the urban BPL people selected as beneficiaries under the Valmiki Ambedkar Malin Basti Awas Yojana (VAMBAY) in Capital area did not receive the subsidy amount that has been reportedly disbursed in a meeting held at Naharlagun on August 28, claimed VAMBAY Beneficiaries Grievances Committee (VBGC) in a complaint letter submitted to the chief secretary for his intervention in this regard.

Committee in its letter said that in Capital area 573 beneficiaries were selected and fund reportedly disbursed under the scheme which was implemented through District Urban Development Agencies in the state. But to the utter dismay of the committee, the beneficiaries who have actually constructed dwelling units (DUs) have not received subsidy amount, it alleged.

The poor BPL beneficiaries were misled, and the disbursement of subsidy was shown only in official records, the committee further alleged.

It demanded the chief secretary that a thorough enquiry should be made to investigate into the utilization of central fund under VAMBAY.

The VAMBAY, a holistic scheme under the Centre was sanctioned in 2005-2006 vide order No G-20011/4/2005-UPA-III and implemented in the state in 2006-07 and 2007-2008 throughout the state through DUDAs, the committee informed.

Do we need to reform the traditional practices of Solung festival?

—Bapir Megu

Since time immemorial, our forefathers had been celebrating festivals, primarily to appease the Gods and Goddesses to bless the mankind for prosperous and healthy life and universal peace in turn. Today these festivals are solemnized with broader outlook for all round socio-economic, moral, physical, mental, intellectual and spiritual development besides peace, harmony and prosperity. Evidently our festivals have been an inseparable part of our socio-cultural life. The richness of our culture, arts and social institution is manifested through celebration of these festivals. As such our socio-cultural identity is symbolized through these festivals. I take great pride that we have been able to inherit and preserve these festivals despite the onslaughts of modernity.

Solung is one of our major festivals. It is believed to be the gift of Kine Nane the Goddess of crop and prosperity to Doni Aji or Abotani, enabling them offer offerings to Doying Bote and Kine Nane in gratitude of the help and protection extended in struggle for life. It brings blessings to Doni Aji or Abotani to remain prosperous and healthy.

Today Solung is considered as the biggest and the most popular festival of our community. It is celebrated every year from the first of September normally for about seven days not only in Adi dominated areas, but also all over the state. In hills and rural areas, people still use to celebrate it in order of sequence of formalities of offerings, dance, feasting and merry making. The first/inaugural day is ardo bado when mithuns, pigs etc are sacrificed in each and every household. It is followed by gampu /yekling longe when special community feast is arranged particularly for children. The third day for some, and the fourth day for others, is binnyat longe when people go to field for special rituals and offering to the Goddess of crop and prosperity Kine Nane. The fifth day is ekop or taktor longe, the day when elders of village make small bows and arrows and fasten them atop the door of every house to stop evil spirits from entering the house. Likewise there are many occasions and events having own importance during the entire period of Solung. People, old and young flock to the yingkong (community ground) or musup (community house) where ponung is performed by ponung mimum (ponung girls). Miri, the rhapsodist, who is endowed with prodigious memory leads the ponung, reciting genealogy tracing the origins of human beings, myth of creation of universe and other interesting legends and topics through aabangs, which have three sections viz - liimir liibom or sopii yrkpii (in inaugural / first night) followed by binnyat and ekop yume in succeeding nights. In urban areas like Pasighat, Itanagar etc Solung is celebrated in a bit different way. For its celebration in towns and cities we do have committees headed by President or General Secretary who take up the responsibility of organizing the festival with as much as pomp and gaiety by inviting Chief Guests and Guests of Honour so as to encourage and showcase the unique tradition and culture of our community to the outside world in conformity with urban surroundings and situation. Competitions are also held through displaying folk and modern dances for all age groups.

We are happy that Solung is now celebrated in other parts of the country. It is celebrated in Guwahati, Shillong, Delhi, Mumbai etc. Although similar in many respects, the celebration period is also not like that of village style. It lasts only for 2-3 days in cities and towns.

Different thinkers and authors have so far interpreted the meaning of Solung with negligible difference. Some interpret its meaning as eso + alung (mithun + group / herd = herd of mithuns) giving form of a combined word ‘so + lung = Solung’. Others say that it originated from two words sonam + alung (pulling + group = pulling among groups of people, i.e tug of war) thereby combining to ‘so + lung = Solung’. But, whatsoever is interpreted by different people, its ultimate meaning confines within the same mythological sphere.

Solung has significant influence in moulding the personality and character of the Adis. It breeds the spirit of unity and cooperation among our people and it is here during its celebration, people, particularly younger generation take lessons in a concerted action for the common good of the whole community. So, looking forward to a progressive future, apart from learning about outside world, I would suggest that due emphasis should be given to learning own tradition, culture and faith. If we want our children to preserve and promote our traditional values and cultural heritage, we have to do good things and set examples before them. It is unfortunate and disheartening to see that our youth and children, showing disregard to our own festivals, rather involve themselves and enjoy more in celebrating Durga puja, Holi, Christmas etc. Of course, there is nothing wrong in enjoying festivals of other people by which true cultural exchange takes place, but it is more appreciable if it is without showing disregard to our own. Without prejudice to any one, it may be mentioned that of late, in spite of being indigenous to this land, some of our fellow citizens decline to contribute something nor accept anything like rice, meat etc. offered to them in the name of festival during its celebration, rather express a feeling of alienation, saying “your festivals, your culture” which has become a matter of great concern so far as our social integrity is concerned. There is also some section of people who, in the egotism of their reasoning, say that they have nothing to do with such festivals. However, such claims bear no meaning.

We need to understand the value and importance of celebrating the festival by one and all irrespective of age, sex, caste, geographical location, political and religious affiliation, particularly in the context of present generation who are on the brink of forgetting own tradition and cultural values in the name of modernity. We must appreciate the pride that we have inherited from our forefathers. The celebration of Solung festival in modern method in conformity with the changing scenario specially in urban areas on a common date without losing its associated fervour and values, is well appreciated and being followed by others. The Adi tribe is one of the major tribal groups of Arunachal Pradesh who have been in the forefront and torchbearers in the field of education, socio-economic and other developments. The traditional system of self-governance locally known as kebang which in fact is a judicio-administrative body consisting of veteran and influential elders who look after the administration and justice in the society by settling all matters of disputes, is very unique and indicative of high sense of prudence of our people being amongst the most sagacious ethnic groups. We are proud to be known for this kind of uniqueness in our community.

One’s affiliation to other religious faith is purely a personal matter, which should not become the cause of confusion and mistrust among us. India is a secular nation. Any one can embrace any faith according to his / her choice. But, it is impossible for any self-respecting person to disassociate himself from his family and own people as long as he is in his community. Our self-identity is inseparably associated first with our own community. Therefore, there is a social need to have rational perspective on the issue and introspect to our respectability and dignity, which other people accord to us by virtue of our faith in self-respect and wisdom.

I would be failing on my part if I do not mention the contribution of late Talom Rukbo and his associates who took up many revolutionary initiatives including bringing about a common date for the celebration of festivals for convenience and proper celebration by mass participation, particularly students and youth of the entire Adi community. Reacting strongly to the alarming inclination towards materialistic allurement and deplorable disregard to own culture and self-respect being displayed by today’s so called modern people of highly civilized world, he used to appeal ‘Respect yourself, you will be respected’; ‘You may say you know, but by your actions you are known’; ‘The loss of culture is the loss of identity’ etc etc. These appeals are now unfortunately being misinterpreted by some sections of people. He felt that unless children and youth are involved in festivals and social activities, it would not be possible to disseminate the valuable teachings of indigenous beliefs, ritualistic practices originating from the ancient tribal life and the rich cultural heritage among them. He believed that festival is the very soul and essence of socio-cultural identity of a man and therefore, festival must be an essential part of life of a man for no man can live without social identity. Like other pioneers of the world, perhaps, Talom Rukbo too believed in dreaming of all that is good and beautiful on this land of the descendants of Abotani. An identity crisis is obvious in the years to come if the present trend of mistrust and negligence towards social interest goes on unchecked.

Therefore, I would like to appeal to all like-minded fellow Adis not to confuse ourselves. Let us continue to strive ahead relentlessly for protection and preservation of our rich cultural heritage and identity. Let us take the advantage of modern education, science and technology from other advanced people, but not at the cost of our precious identity. It is high time to unite and set our house in order by rectifying various lapses in the social system. Solung is one of festivals in the State that only what we make it worth just by our participation, mutual cooperation and collective efforts. Today, it should not merely be a festival of animal sacrifice, feasting and dancing. It should be made a common platform for the younger generation, the students and youth, to expose their hidden talents in the field of literature, games and sports songs and drama etc. Let us also appeal to our brothers and sisters not to wear modern and fashionable dresses, but make it ritualistic for all to wear traditional dresses during indigenous festivals as it looks more festive and enhances our honour and dignity, thereby protecting and revitalizing our socio-cultural identity which is the need of the hour. Then only it will be safe to predict that whatever the future may be, our future generations will not be unconvincing and self-conscious copies of other people who disassociate themselves from own ancestral roots, but will be men rooted in their own traditions and aware of the continuity of the culture and retain their own identity.

As regards need to reform the traditional practices of Solung, I would like to suggest that no major reformation is needed at the moment. Most of the existing traditional ways, means and practices involved in Solung have relevance and very much practicable in our life today. However, some superstitious and obsolete rituals; uncontrolled sacrifices of domestic animals and excessive use of apong are unnecessary and uneconomical. Besides these, we may need a few reformations in some areas with the change of time in future, as reformation is not only inevitable and essential, but also beneficial. Reformation, though painful and unacceptable to some sections of people, is yet needful, as we cannot implicitly follow old practices in a world teeming with fast changing societies of this scientific age. I would say that some of our practices would be rotten if they are not changed or reformed to put new vigour, new strength and new energy in the system. How can we bring about suitable reformations if we stick to the old order and cling to the out of date pattern of system? Of course, at the same time, we should be able to conserve and promote what is good, relevant and practicable; and reform what is bad, irrelevant and obsolete in present context. Also, in our impatience we should not destroy all practices simply because they are old. Our reformation, if at all necessary, should be brought with broad outlook so as to accommodate all like-minded people irrespective of places, sex, age etc. without losing the significance and traditional value associated with the most enjoyed Solung. We should never forget to be true to our ancestral roots, traditions and culture lest we lose them forever.

AGAMPE!

I wish one and all a grand Solung.. . !

GSU, WSDSU demand SSA results be declared

ITANAGAR, Aug 31: Galo students’ union (GSU) and East Siang District Students’ Union (WSDSU) expressed serious concerned over the delay in declaring the SSA result of West Siang district. The SSA results of most districts have already been declared yet West Siang is still awaiting its results.

The unions hoped that results would be declared before the model code of conduct of general election is declared. It further appealed the authority concerned to select the teacher on merit basis as the teacher has to shoulder the responsibility of shaping the future of thousands of students who in turn be held shall responsible for development of our state in particular & nation as a whole in days to come.

The delay in the process is confusing the aspirants and political manipulation is highly feared, the union said and added that in the name of SSA teacher the unemployed youths may be exploited for political gain.

GSU and WSDSU support the demand made by Kargu Kardi Students’ Union (KKSU) to declare the result within a week.

The unions further said that it opposes any political interference in appointment of teachers. The unions firmly believe that education is the only means through which an individual or society can be developed in true sense.

The state government should not only limit their appreciable policies in papers but they should also make sure that the policies are practically implemented and followed at every level, GSU added.

The union further appealed the political leaders to come out with their commitments so as to develop our budding state into fully mature and reliable state.

AYSU conference cum election

ITANAGAR Aug 31: The 8th general conference cum election of All Yachuli Students’ Union (AYSU) will be organized at government secondary school Deed from September 24 to 26 next. Toko Takam and Licha Rohit have been appointed as the chairman and member secretary of the general conference cum election.

Gandhi Summer School inaugurated at Hong

ITANAGAR Aug 31: The Gandhi Summer School in Kasturba Gandhi Seva Kendra at Hanoko , Hong village Ziro was inaugurated today.

Kusum Bora Mokashi, Prtinidhi, Kasturba Gandhi National Memorial Trust, Assam branch speaking on the occasion as chief guest highlighted on the need to organize such summer schools in its centres so that the oldest person in the nearby village of the centre will be honoured by the students of the Gandhi Summer School to receive their blessings in return.

She also highlighted the progress and activities of the Kendras in the North East. Kusum also advised the participating students on keeping the environment clean, maintaining discipline in the school and judicious use of money.

She expressed her gratitude to the people of Hong village who voluntarily donated in cash and kind for removing the dilapidated buildings of the Kasturba Gandhi Seva Kendra, Hong (Hanoko).

Champa Patar, Sevika. Moito Ashram, North Lakhimpur, Assam attending the function as guest of honour advised the students to be discipline in all works to learn mutually from such Summer Schools.

The inaugural function was presided by Ziro DFO cum Kasturba Gandhi Seva Kendra Managing Committee chairman Hibu Tadi.

He advised the participating students to be sincere and dedicate during the Summer School. He also urged the students to learn the teachings of Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi about Truth, Non-Violence and Simplicity.

He also informed in the gathering that Mahatma Gandhi has been declared as the Greatest Man on Earth in 20th Century.

Ex-ZPM Takhe Taki, DHO Bullo Tama, E.E.(Electrical) Er. Tapi Tai, Bullo Rinyo, Supervisor (ICDS), Punyo Tare and Mudang Chalyang both teachers also spoke on the occasion, in which they advised the participants/ students of the Summer School to take full advantage of such camp.

They also advised the students to learn the value of the time and utilize it judiciously. The speakers further suggested various methods of spreading their knowledge from such Summer Schools by sending the children to various villages. Various ways and means for improvement of the Kendra was also suggested by the speakers in the function.

Kasturba Gandhi Seva Kendra at Hanoko, Hong Sevika Minali Gogoi highlighted the aims and objectives of organizing the Gandhi summer school in the Kendra.

The ten days Gandhi summer school in Kendra is for group of students of Class VII to IX. The programme is organized by Kasturba Gandhi National Memorial Trust, Assam Branch, in collaboration with Gandhi Smirti and Darshan Samiti, New Delhi in 20 centres in the North east region.

The students will be taught the life history and teachings of Mohandas Karamchandra Gandhi and his wife Kasturba Gandhi, education, health, hygiene, environment, yoga, geet, life history of great personalities and children’s rights and duties. Lessons on bad effects of plastics will also be taught to bring about awareness.

ASUM celebrates fresher’s meet

ITANAGAR, Aug 31: The annual get together cum fresher meet of all Arunachalee students in Mumbai was conducted by Arunachal Students Union Mumbai (ASUM) at Marine centre, Vashi,Mumbai on August 29 last. Large numbers of Arunachalees turned up for the event.

The function was also attended by IIM graduate Er.Tadu Nobin (Manager Reliance, Vashi, Mumbai) Er.Khulai Chaituom (Assistant Manager Reliance, Kharghar, Mumbai) Er.Henmar Rina(Siemens), Aman Para (Midday news), Er Tana Topu, Er Oto Regon and Er.Rubu Rajen.

Er Tadu Nobin called upon all the Arunachalee students to sincerely pursue their courses to succeed in life.

Amanda Pertin and Binni Nyicor were adjudged Miss and Mr Fresher.

Meanwhile Canan Jamoh, Biken Nyicyor and Tony Lego have been nominated as the new president, vice president and general secretary of the union.

ASUM have further retreated its demand for setting up of an immediate temporary guest house at Mumbai till the completion of under construction Arunachal Bhavan at Vashi, as it will benefit lot of our students, patients, tourist and people visiting Mumbai.

ASUM further calls upon the premier student body AAPSU to immediately initiate this matter with the higher authorities.

State’s first lady to inaugurate

ITANAGAR: First Lady of the state Anupama Singh would inaugurate the Women Studies Research Centre of Rajiv Gandhi University, Ronohills on September 5.

Entrance test

ITANAGAR: Rajiv Gandhi University M.Phil Entrance test’09 (written) held on August 22 and 23 have been declared.

ANSU not to use its platform in assembly election

ITANAGAR: All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU) in a meeting unanimously resolved not to participate or support any party or candidate in the Vidhan Sabha election using ANSU platform.

The union further declared two months leave from any union activities. The office seal will not be used until resumption of its union activities. It also decided not to issue any press statement unless an emergency arises.

ATSU call 12 hrs capital bandh

ITANAGAR: Arunachal Tribal Students’ Union (ATSU) has called its first phase 12 hrs capital bandh against the state government’s failure to immediately initiate action against two ministers from Tirap and Changlang by handing over their case to CBI on September 4 next. The union said that its second phase 48 hrs state wide bandh will be on September 15 next.

Tuki to attend sports meet

ITANAGAR: PWD & UD minister Nabam Tuki and ASM Nabam Yokum have consented to attend the VII Sports meet being organized by All Sagalee Students’ Union (ASSU) at Government higher secondary school, Sagalee to mark the Teachers Day celebration from September 2 to 5 next. Cultural, literary, games and sports and felicitation programme will also be organized.

(Readers’ Forum)

Allegations are false and fabricated

Madam,

Through the columns of your esteemed daily I would like to clarify some of the allegations leveled against me regarding atrocities on government employees of and belong to Basar Assembly Constituency which is totally false and fabricated and it is a cheap propaganda against me. Some group of people in the name of Citizens of Basar Constituency (CBC) the nomenclature of which itself is in question and illegal did postering and called a 24 hours Basar Bandh on Aug 28 to 29 in a very hotchpotch manner against me. The same has been declared illegal by the local administration and people have totally rejected it. Perhaps, the citizens were harassed by the activists of the Bandh Call due to lack of proper organization and absent of defined modus-operandi and exemptions which is totally abuse to democratic processes. This has created only chaos and confusions among the citizens and is totally a failed move to create a cheap wave against me. Such hurdles will never deviate me from my commitments and determinations to work for the people and overall developments of my Constituency in particular and our state and country in general.

Despite my repeated clarification that I am totally innocent and have no involvement in the recent government actions taken against some of the officers of and belong to Basar Constituency, but some vested interest persons are fabricating the issue and working round the clock to malign my image which I have earned during 25 years of my political career.

However, it is an appeal to all the citizens of Basar Constituency, specially officers including other government employees that I have never worked against them, rather I have always tried to help the common masses and government employees as much as in my capacity. If I have done any mistake, it would be only my instinct to bring overall general development to my people and Constituency.

Further, 1 would like to request the vested interest persons, masterminds and misguided miscreants involved in the recent attempt to burnt down my house at Chirne Village of Basar on 28th of August 2009 at early morning of which an FIR had also been registered under Basar Police station, not to repeat such kind of inhuman and unscrupulous activities which may never serve the purpose, rather let the people decide the fate through votes in very democratic manner.

Yours,

Gojen Gadi

Ex-MLA

29th Basar(ST)

Assembly constituency

Camp-Basar

Clarification on postering

Madam,

I came to know that some vested interest individuals have misinterpreted the theme of the poster made in favour of former minister Lichi Legi. The theme of the poster was conceived by me to just highlight his personal ideology which may inspire the youth of the state as a whole.

My designation was mentioned as Arunachal Congress (AC) general secretary when the order for the poster was placed. However, I resigned from AC on July 25 last, joined INC on July 27 and now holding the post of convener, Political Affairs Cell at Pradesh Congress Committee(PCC), Itanagar.

Therefore, I request the people of the state, especially the people of the Itanagar segment not to mis-interpret and mis-understand the theme of the poster.

Yours,

Karpak Sora Bogum

Convener

Political Affairs Cell,

PCC, Itanagar