September 29
Training prog on consumer awareness
PASIGHAT Sept 28: Two weeks long training programme on ‘consumer awareness’ organised by the department of Legal Metrology & Consumer Affairs concluded today.
Assistant Controller KP Tago and Inspector Lupha Sikhet imparted the consumer awareness training to the staffs of DC and DMO offices to eight batches in the first phase through practical demonstration in the office complex.
Expressing his dismay over the outcome of awareness programmes, Tago said that despite extensive publicity and awareness campaign for the last two years in the district, no significant changes have been found in consumer’s behaviour. “It shows that awareness level of consumer is still very low for which the department is taking up this training programme under active guidance of the Deputy Commissioner Isha Khosla, he informed.
Some of the important provisions of the Consumer Protection Act like Consumer rights, duties and redressal machinery available in the district are also taught in the training. In next phase, teaching staffs, office staff of some departments, common people and NGOs will be covered in the next phases.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Isha Khosla appreciated the department for conducting the training successfully. DIPRO
Orientation prog for in-
SEPPA, Sept 28: A four-
Tadam Mibang, Principal, DIET, Seppa appealed the teachers to make the teaching learning process more enjoyable and systematic.
Among others, lecturers Valsalakumari and S D Pandey also spoke on the occasion. DIPRO
Four nabbed for extortion
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: Four persons were nabbed by a team of security personnel while demanding cash from the general manager of Sushee Infra Pvt Ltd at Sede base camp under Papu Valley area around 8 pm on Sept 22 last. The arrested persons have been identified as Sunday Khyora, Tani Kawa, Kabo Tabri and Karbia Khyora, claimed All Papu Valley Youth Welfare Association in a release.
The association further said that earlier the arrested persons had fled with four
stolen motorbikes from Itanagar and were caught red-
Meanwhile, the association lauded the security personnel for their action and recovery of stolen bikes.
DC holds interactive meeting
with admin officers
YUPIA, Sept 28: Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Tai Kaye today held an interactive meeting with all administrative officers and reviewed the law and order situation, problems and grievances faced by them at his conference hall here today.
Briefing the officers on various administrative responsibilities and duties, the DC called upon all officers to discharge duties with full dedication and sincerity. Saying that administrative job is totally a different than other jobs, he called upon the officers to work as a team and maintain the proper records of the work undertaken by them and update the DC about all happenings in their respective jurisdictions. He also urged the officers to expedite the township land notification process.
Balijan ADC Chuku Takar apprised the DC about the shortage of staff and requested him to provide sufficient staff for smooth office functioning.
Circle Officers/ EACs of all the circles in the district apprised the DC about their problems and works carried out. DIPRO
Release pending salary
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: Claiming that the state SSA teachers have not received salaries for the past three months i.e, for (July, August and September), the Central Executive Committee, All Arunachal Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Teachers’ Association (CEC AASSATA) has in a representation to the Education Minister today appealed for early release of the state’s matching share as assured by the GoAP.
The CEC AASSATA said that despite GoAP’s assurance to release salaries of SSA teachers
after every two months, no salaries were received owing to non-
Post adequate doctors, medical staff
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: In a representation to the state Health & Family Welfare Minister,
the All Arunachal Pradesh Labour Union (AAPLU) has today appealed for early posting
of adequate doctors and para-
Stating that the labour force serving in rural areas do not have access to health care facilities due to absence of doctors, the union said the state’s work force needs proper health care facility against diseases like Dengue which has been rapidly spreading in the state.
District consultative
committee meeting held
YINGKIONG, Sept 28: Upper Siang District Consultative Committee (DCC)/district level review committee (DLRC) meeting was held at DC’s conference hall here on Friday last.
The meeting presided over by Deputy Commissioner Remo Kamki reviewed the progress achievements of various schemes including PMJDY.
While reviewing the first quarter performance under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) PMJJMY, Atal Pension Yojana, the bank representatives disclosed that they have not received any applications so far under the schemes. Regarding the performance under the schemes like PMEGP, WCC, SGSY etc. the bank authorities revealed that 60 per cent loan recovery has been done satisfactorily.
During the discussion on matters related to EBI, exchange of soiled notes, ATM etc, the DC urged the bank authority for immediate consideration of installation of one more ATM at Yingkiong and another at Tuting.
Among others, SBI representatives from Pasighat and Yinkgiong, APRB branch manager, Yingkiong, PD, DRDA and officers from concerned departments attended the meeting. DIPRO
Villagers repair rural link road
From a Correspondent
CHANGLANG, Sept 28: Approximately 20 kms rain damaged rural link road starting from Changlang to Khuchep in Changlang district which is the lifeline of more than ten villages was repaired by the villagers recently.
The road was in a horrible condition until few days ago. The heavy downpour of the last two months had either washed away or blocked the rural link road at many parts. It was severely hampering the day to day existence of the affected villagers as they have to rely on the district headquarter for every basic need starting from ration to medical remedy.
Since the blockade, on various occasions the villagers approached the Rural Work Department for repairing and maintenance of the road. “As usual the response of RWD was tepid so we took the matter in our own hands,” shared former GPM Nongman Kamba.
Deeply hurt by the departmental negligence, more than 100 villagers braving the inclement weather repaired the dilapidated road in record time. “Now life has become little easier for the commuter of this thoroughfare,” shared Kamba.
APCTA meet concerned over shortage of teachers
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: Arunachal Pradesh College Teacher's Association (APCTA) in its annual joint secretary level meeting held at Govt. College Doimukh today discussed various issues related to college teachers in the state including career promotions, Ph.D. supervisorship for college teachers, consideration of Academic Performance Index (API) for promotion, Seventh Pay Commission, examination ordinance of Rajiv Gandhi University, constraints for undertaking Ph.D. by the faculty members besides shortage of faculty members and clerical staff at different government colleges, accommodation problems of faculty members.
While pointing out the shortage of faculty in government colleges particularly against in some subjects, the Association said that Education department in Dera Natung Government College has more than one thousand students. The meeting felt the need for appointment of more faculty under Education subject. Anthropology department was also introduced in the college without single faculty member, the Association said. “The same is the case with Indira Gandhi Government College, Tezu, Government Women College, Lekhi,” the meeting observed.
Besides office bearers of the Association, a good number of faculty members from Jawaharlal Nehru College, Pasighat, Indira Gandhi Government College, Tezu, Government College, Seppa, Dera Natung Govt. College, Itanagar, Government College, Bomdila, Government College, Doimukh and Government Women College, Lekhi participated in the meeting.
BJP conducts regional level workshop
From a Correspondent
JAIRAMPUR, Sep 28: A day-
The workshop which was inaugurated by BJP MLA Laisam Simai and MLA Tesam Pongtey was attended by all the district and block level BJP cadres and the workshop was divided in six sessions and each session was addressed by different resource person.
The first session on ‘BJPs Working System’ was outlined by its former state president Dr Tangor Tapak, the second session on “BJPs Ideological Journey” was briefed by RSS worker Narendra, the third session ‘on History and Development of BJP’ was delineated by its State Secretary Dominic Tadar, the fourth session on ‘BJP Governments Achievements’ was highlighted by Changlang North MLA Tesam Pongtey, the fifth session on ‘Current Political Situation in Arunachal Pradesh’ was elaborated by the local MLA Laisam Simai and the sixth session which was an open discussion session was chaired by former minister W Lowangcha.
Earlier, BJP leaders including host Laisam Simai, Tirap Frontier Region President Wangdong Rajkumar, BJP National Council Member Samchom Ngemu, former MLA KG Singpho, Secretary Organisation (Arunachal Pradesh) Ramesh Gadaganche and Changlang District BJP President Ngilang Tangha motivated the district and block level cadres to work harder for the progress of the party in grassroots level. BJP State Vice President Kenyir Ringu also spoke on the occasion.
VKV school inaugurated
at Dollungmukh
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: Nyishi Elite Society president Bengia Tolum and NHPC Subansiri project Executive Director Rakesh jointly inaugurated a VKV school with hostel facility in presence of VKV Arunachal Pradesh Trust, Director, Dr. Joram Begi and other dignitaries at Dollungmukh under Lower Subansiri district today. The school building with an estimated project cost of Rs. 17 crore was sponsored by NHPC under its CRS scheme. Of the Rs. 17 crore, Rs. 10 crore has been sanctioned and utilised to facilitate for starting the school.
Speaking on the occasion, VKVAP Trust joint secretary Radha Devi, highlighting the role of VKV disclosed that 33 VKV schools are imparting quality education in the state at present.
Peri Pumb Association (PPA) contributed Rs.15 lakh for infrastructure development of the school.
General body meeting of NCUI held
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: The National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI) in association
with all Member Institutions of Cooperative Sectors of India organised the annual
general body meeting for the year 2014-
Substantive agenda on work programme of NCUI for the year 2016-
Chief Executive Officer, Arunachal Pradesh State Cooperative Union, G Nyorak, represented the state in the meeting in which around 75 delegates from all over India including governing council members of NCUI attended.
Arunachalee patient donates cash to Assam hospital
Correspondent
PASIGHAT, Sept 28: One Bolet Dai, a farmer of Mirsam village in Pasighat, who had been suffering from a complicated eye disease, has contributed some cash to Sri Kanchi Sankara Health & Educational Foundation, Guwahati after he successfully got his eye operated in the health institution.
Dai was suffering from ‘Bacillary Carcinoma’ in his right eye for many years. He contributed Rs. 1,10,222 in appreciation of the cooperation and humanitarian attitude shown to him by the doctors and nurses of the hospital during the treatment period. The hospital is being run under Sri Sankardeva Nethralaya.
Youths donate blood
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: Volunteers of National Youth Corp Nehru Yuva Kendra, Itanagar donated blood during a voluntary blood donation camp organised by the Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan in collaboration with RK Mission Hospital here on Saturday.
Lauding the NYK for its noble initiative, Debu Maharaj of RKM hospital urged the youths to donate blood more often and create awareness among others.
Exposure tour for farmers
SEPPA, Sep 28: The farmers of Bameng and Khenewa blocks were taken to Bomdila on an exposure tour sponsored by Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA), East Kameng.
The farmers visited apple orchards, sheep breeding farm, tomato farms and horticulture farms in Bomdila. It is reported that the farmers were immensely benefited from the tour in gathering first hand knowledge on farming techniques. DIPRO
Cleanliness awareness rally
AALO, Sept 28: A cleanliness awareness rally as part of the fortnight-
Participated by the PRI members, teachers, school children and departmental engineers the rally started from Govt. Middle School, New Market and passed through main thoroughfare of the township.
Posters and banners were displayed highlighting the importance of good health and sanitation practices, keeping the streets/roads, markets, bus terminals, Govt. offices, schools premises clean to generate public awareness during the rally. DIPRO
CEYAA condemns SC ruling in favour of refugees
ITANAGAR, Sep 29: Central Eastern Youth Association of Arunachal (CEYAA) has condemned the Supreme Court ruling directing the state and central governments to grant citizenship rights to Chakma and Hajong refugees settled in Arunachal Pradesh.
CEYAA called upon all civil societies in Arunachal to raise their voice against the judgment and warned of vigorous democratic movement, if the SC judgment is not reversed.
ATYO demands
ITANAGAR, Sep 28: All Tagin Youth Organisation (ATYO) in a release informed that
it had placed six points charter of demands to the Deputy Commissioner, Upper Subansiri
district, which included immediate maintenance of road from Daporijo to Ziro and
Daporijo township roads, establishment of a new SBI branch at Dumporijo, ATM booths
at New Market and Medical Line Daporijo, improvement of BSNL network in Upper Subansiri,
establishment of sub-
The organisation stated of launching democratic movement unless its demands were fulfilled within a week.
Anshu at Pinkathon 2015
Guwahati/Itanagar, Sep 28: Everester Anshu Jamsenpa participated in the grand event of ?Pinkathon 2015, India's biggest women run at Guwahati yesterday. She was one of the celebrity participants who completed 10 km slot in one hour and one minute. Pinkathon race was organised for the sake of women's good health and to show their support to this noble cause of breast cancer awareness and the fitness of women and its importance. Over 4000 women ran the race of 21 km (professional runners), 10 km, 5 km and 3 km.
On completion of her race, Anshu was welcomed at the finishing line by Pinkathon Ambassadors. Model, actor, fitness enthusiast and Pinkathon founder Milind Soman handed over the medal and a mammogram worth thousands to Anshu. He also reiterated his childhood dream of climbing Mount Everest which he is now seriously thinking of attempting during the next climbing season.
When asked by media persons about her Pinkathon experience, Anshu described her participation as an attempt to bring about positive changes in the society.
Capital Complex SC meet Arunachal Sporting Club in first semifinal
4th Abotani Cup Football
ITANAGAR, Sep 28: Capital Complex Sporting Club (CCSC) will meet Arunachal Sporting Club (ASC) in the first semifinal of the state level 4th Abotani Cup Football Championship 2015 at RG Stadium Naharlagun tomorrow at 2.30 pm.
Arunachal Pradesh Police (APP) will play against Todo United -
The final match will be played on Oct 2.
Local MLA Techi Kaso and chief councilor of Itanagar Municipal Council Kipa Kaku will attend the final match, informed the organising committee.
News Impact
Massive protest in Capital against SC verdict on Chakma-
[ Taba Ajum ]
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: “If government of India and Supreme Court insist on granting Indian
citizenship to Chakma-
Majority of the participants were young college, university and school going students.
Naturally they looked very concerned and deeply upset with the new development.
“This is the first step. After attaining citizenship, they will seek APST status. At present their population is above one lakh and if they are given citizenship, larger number of Chakmas will pour in from Bangladesh, Tripura and Mizoram. We will become refugees in our own place,” said one student from RGU.
Some youths also spoke about their disillusionment with the Indian system. “We are citizens of India but the Supreme Court is more sympathetic towards refugees. Our faith on Indian system will be lost if Supreme Court as well as union government continues to support them on citizenship issue,” shared another protestor.
“If the central government and SC do not respect our sentiments then what is the
point of being part of the Indian nation? Whatever may be their decision and views,
we will not let Arunachal become the dumping ground of the refugees,” said Tobom
Dai, former AAPSU leader. Shouting slogans like “Chakma-
“The three MPs of Arunachal should raise the issue in the Parliament and put Arunachal’s perspective forward. MoS Home Kiren Rijiju should not try to escape from the responsibilities by putting the blame on the state government. The opinion of the Ministry of Home Affairs matters a lot in this issue and he should shoulder his responsibilities. The people of Arunachal had elected the present Nabam Tuki led Congress government to serve the state. Now is the time for them to stand up for the cause of Arunachal,” said Gumjum Haider, former AAPSU leader. He also urged the former AAPSU leaders turned politician like State Legislative Assembly Speaker Nabam Rebia to rise to the occasion and contribute his bit in the ongoing fight.
AAPSU President Kamta Lapung and General Secretary Biru Nasi were to submit a memorandum to the Governor. However, JP Rajkhowa, who was busy in a meeting, did not meet them. Later talking to media persons, AAPSU leaders appealed to the Governor to show sensitivity over the issue stating it is a matter of state concern.
The memorandum urged the Governor that the sentiment and right of the indigenous tribal’s of Arunachal Pradesh should not be simply overlooked by granting Indian citizenship rights to the Chakma and Hajongs. They alleged that this will dilute the constitutional safeguard of the indigenous people of the state. They further added that judgment of apex court is unacceptable to the people of the state. AAPSU has sought intervention of the Governor to solve the vexed issue.
The union also came down heavily on the three Members of Parliament from the state and the state government for failing the people of Arunachal in the refugee issue. “The politicians cannot show unity even in the state’s interest. This is absolute shame. But we will continue to fight tooth and nail against the verdict of the SC,” said AAPSU President Kamta Lapung.
Former AAPSU leaders like Marto Kato, Nabam Jallaw and AAPSU Spokesperson Tanya Agu addressed the gathering. Meanwhile the Adi Students Union (AdiSU) has also denounced the decision to grant citizenship to Chakmas and Hajongs. In a release, AdiSU President Mida Pertin stated that this decision of apex court will set a bad precedent and will have a serious impact on the social fabric of the state.
Govt authorised for “legal and necessary steps”
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: The All-
The state government is awaiting correspondence from the Union Home Ministry with regard to the SC judgment for necessary action.
It added that the State Government as well as all political parties of the state
are not against the grant of Indian citizenship to Chakmas and Hajongs but objects
to their permanent settlement in Arunachal Pradesh and their exclusion from the ILP
provisions, which will be in contradiction to in-
The Chakma-
The participants appealed all not to spread hatred and misconception or target any individual or community particularly through social media.
Along with the Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, Home Minister Tanga Byaling, MLA Bordumsa-
Chairman, CWC, People’s Party of Arunachal (PPA) Kamen Ringu, General Secretary, PPA Tame Papuk, President, Youth Wing, PPA Ringu Gautam, President, NCP State Unit Gicho Kabak, Vice President, NCP State Unit Nima Sange, Vice President, BJP State Unit Techi Necha, Secretary, BJP State Unit Vijay Sonam, and Political Secretary to CM Bamang Tago attended the meeting.
Miao/ Bordumsa register protest
[ Pisi Zauing ]
MIAO/BORDUMSA, Sept 28: The indigenous people of Miao and Bordumsa administrative
sub-
At Miao, several organisations led by Miao Sub-
"The supreme verdict has not only spread shock waves across Changlang, Namsai and Lohit districts but we are deeply pained to imagine the magnitude of hardships in store for us, the letter read while expressing displeasure over the steps taken so far by elected leaders representing these refugee affected constituencies.
The letter, while urging the ADC to convey the sentiments of the indigenous people
to state and central governments strongly demanded that the Chakma-
They stated that the refugees should not be allowed to encroach upon and illegally occupy every nook and corner of the districts. The indigenous people of the sub division appealed to the student's apex body to accelerate the pace of the movement and visit the affected areas.
At Bordumsa, thousands of ethnic people including students, PRI members, GBs, and civil society participated in a mammoth rally led by Singpho Youth Organisation.
While lauding the All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union for organising a mega rally
at Itanagar, the people of Bordumsa sub-
"We will not rest until the verdict is reviewed”, said Ongyun Miao, leader of Singpho Youth Organisation cum Secretary General, Singpho Development Society. In a joint memorandum to the ADC Bordumsa, with a copy to Home Secretary and the Deputy Commissioner, the organisations demanded immediate review of the verdict.
US team in India for WW-
MIA search in Arunachal
NEW DELHI, Sept 28: Specialised identification and recovery teams from the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) arrived in India Sunday, September 27, to search for Americans who remain unaccounted for from World War II.
The Embassy of the United States of America and DPAA worked with the government of India to coordinate this opportunity for the agency to work in Arunachal Pradesh, said a press statement issued by the office of the US Consulate, Kolkata. This will be the first recovery mission conducted by DPAA in Arunachal Pradesh since Dec 2009. The majority of missing Americans are believed to be located in Arunachal, since the main air resupply route from India to China during World War II flew over the Himalayas on a route which came to be known as “The Hump.”
DPAA missions are therefore important to help them fulfill their mission of fully accounting for American servicemen still missing from previous conflicts, and living up to their motto of “Fulfilling Our Nation’s Promise”, the statement added.
DPAA continues its search for the approximately 400 Americans still missing in India and the more than 83,000 Americans still missing from past conflicts worldwide.
Yet another rape case reported
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: A girl was reportedly raped at Aalo on September 23 last.
The victim, an 18 year old student, lodged a complaint with Aalo Police Station on Sept 24 last. According to her, the alleged accused, one Martin Bagra made a call to her in the evening inviting her to his home as she and his sister are friends and then raped her at gunpoint.
The accused was arrested on Sept 25 last with the help of the town magistrate.
The house of the accused was ransacked by the relatives of the victim on the night of Sept 24 last. A case is registered with Aalo PS under section 376/506 of IPC Read with section 27 of Arms Act.
According to OC, PS Aalo, O Tamut, the accused has been placed under 14 days police remand and the investigation is on.
The Leyu Welfare Society has condemned the incident and demanded capital punishment for the accused. It also demanded that the accused should not be granted bail.
Blaming the mother of the accused for helping him, the society called for immediate arrest of the mother as well.
It may be mentioned here that accused Martin Bagra has a case pending with Women’s Commission on Domestic Violence.
Six NSCN cadres arrested with arms and opium
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: Three NSCN (K), two NSCN (R) and an a NSCN (IM) cadres were arrested in Longding district on Saturday following a joint operation conducted by the APP and 4th Rajput Regiment at Nginu village area under Longding district.
The arrested have been identified as NSCN-
NSCN (R) cadres arrested have been identified as Wangpho Nokwoham and Mantah Arangham of Hasse Russa, Kanubari.
An AK-
A case has been registered at Longding police station.
CS assures support for effective implementation of social security schemes
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: State Chief Secretary Ramesh Negi assured the director of Postal Service Itanagar, Vinod Kumar to extend all possible support for effective implementation of the various social security schemes in the state. The assurance came when Kumar, who has joined as Director (Posts) in Itanagar, called on Negi in his chamber today.
During the hour-
The Chief Secretary also laid stress on the fact that India is having diversity of cultures so the coming philately exhibition can have some themes on music, films, culture and sports which can attract young generation to adopt this interesting hobby and to learn a lot of our cultural treasure. During the meeting, a plan to spread the awareness about philately among the members of public especially the young students was discussed.
The Chief Secretary agreed upon the various modes to publicise philately, the hobby of collecting stamps and stationery. He mentioned that in the era of technology the stamps have their significant role to play in creating understanding about the various walks of life including scientific development, environment matters, sports, interesting monuments and art & culture. Kumar agreed upon holding a composite exhibition including philately, PLI/RPLI and other social benefiting schemes for the people of the state.
Earlier, Kumar explained various social security schemes and sought support from the state Govt.
Sonam Chombay, Secretary Planning IPR and Printing, who was present in the meeting, outlined the plans to promote social security schemes especially for the benefits of girl child through Department of Women and Child Development, Health Department, etc, according to an official release.
World Tourism Day celebrated with a difference
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: The Tourism Department celebrated World Tourism Day with the theme “Millions of Tourist, Millions of opportunity” at Donyi Polo Mission School for Hearing and Visually Impaired, Chimpu, Itanagar in a befitting manner with two days programme by actively involving the students of the school.
The main highlights of the celebration were screening of films on Arunachal tourism, poster making competition, cleanliness drive and massive tree plantation followed by cultural programmes.
The objective of celebration at Donyi Polo Mission School for Hearing Impaired was
to show the world that if a differently-
The participants in the poster-
In the poster making competition on ‘Arunachal Tourism’, Markar Kato, Nabum Dipung and Vikash Miroh stood first, second and third in the senior group and Gokia Bikap, Yumlam Janu and Jeevan Gyadi were adjudged first, second and third in the junior group.
The prizes of the competitions were distributed by Director (Tourism) Karma Leki.
The programme concluded with signing off for keeping the surrounding clean and with the message “Together we can change”.
Besides the students and teachers of the school, the programme was enthusiastically attended by the officials of Tourism department, the members of APTOA led by John Panya, faculties and students of RGGP.
Vivekanda Yuva Shakti and Arunachal Pradesh Society for Education and Development actively supported the programme and both the NGOs donated wall clocks, dustbins etc. for the school.
World Tourism Day was also celebrated in Mechukha by Menchuka Eco-
An essay writing competition was held among the students of KGVB and Tso-
Local MLA and Parliamentary Secretary (Animal Husbandry & Civil Aviation) PD Sona and Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mechukha, Tungge Loya attended the celebration.
New NERCORMP project manager seeks support
Correspondent
CHANGLANG, Sept 28: On the sidelines of the introduction programme held at NERCORMP (North Eastern Region Community Resources Management Project for Upland Areas) office Changlang, the newly posted NERCORMP Changlang Project Manager (PM) D Khuala Vaiphei had acknowledged that some unwanted mistakes were committed during the implementation of the first phase programme. However, being new, he requested for support of the partner NGOs and his staff to create a transparent and flawless working ambience.
The new PM also assured to handover the new motorbikes to the partner NGOs without further delay.
On deferment of service charges to partner NGOs, the new PM said, “I’m not aware why it was delayed earlier, but on my watch it will be released on time.”
In the meantime, all the chief functionaries of 13 partner NGOs has expressed optimism to work diligently under the guidance of the new PM who has sorted out their problems in the very first meeting.
NERCORMP III covers Changlang, Tirap and Longding district in Arunachal Pradesh. Launched in 2014, in Changlang district NERCORMP related activities only began in early part of 2015 which delayed the project by a year comparative to NERCORMP Tirap that started its activities soon after the launch. The delay has caused Changlang district to lose Rs. 34 lakhs as unused fund.
Here in Changlang district, NERCORMP III has covered seven administrative blocks and 155 villages (7356 households) as well as in Tirap and Longding, it has covered nine administrative blocks and 96 villages (7356 households).
So far, NERCORMP III has released Rs. 6,20,40,000 (2014-
Governor emphasises on economic empowerment of rural villages
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: Arunachal Pradesh Governor J P Rajkhowa has emphasised on economic
empowerment of villages, especially those in border areas and difficult districts
in the state by value addition to agricultural and horticultural products and non-
Initiating a discussion with Dr. Mihir Shah, Chairman, Bharat Rural Livelihood Foundation
(BRLF), New Delhi who called on him at Raj Bhawan today, he suggested that BRLF
should pay special attention for establishment of de-
The Governor further stressed on skill development and initiative towards integrated habitat improvement, including housing, drinking water, electricity, medical facility and sanitation etc.
Earlier, Dr. Shah briefed that BRLF aims to facilitate and upscale civil society
action in partnership with Government for transforming livelihoods and lives of rural
households, with an emphasis on women, particularly in the tribal regions. It will
provide financial grants to civil society organisations to meet their human resource
and institutional costs for up-
The Foundation is constituted as a partnership between the Central Government on the one hand and private sector philanthropies, private and public sector undertakings, under Corporate Social Responsibility on the other hand.
Secretary to Governor, Kaling Tayeng, Prof. Ajay Dandekar, BRLF, Indra Mallo, Secretary, Rural Development, GoAP, N.B. Doye, State Mission Manager, Arunachal State Rural Livelihood Mission (ArSRLM) and Dr. Rakesh Srivastava, Core Committee Member, ArSRLM were also present on the occasion. (PRO to Governor)
Populations in Pipu, Gyawepurang on brink of near starvation
ITANAGAR, Sept 29: Life has become almost totally paralysed in Pipu and Gyawepurang of East Kameng district due to disruption in road communication since August 15.
Disruption in road communication has not only caused acute shortage of ration items
and other essential commodities, medicines at the health facilities but also hampered
the smooth functioning of all government offices causing great hardships and inconvenience
to the public of the area, informed Pipu-
According to the organisation, the people are on the brink of near starvation as ration items are not reaching to the area ever since the road communication got disrupted permanently. Patients are being evacuated manually by lifters to the district hospital Seppa for treatment. Reportedly, many patients have succumbed to their illness on way to the hospital.
Taking serious note of the present crisis, the PGSO held a meeting on Saturday and appealed to the state government to restore the road connectivity at the earliest. The senior citizens of the area who attended the meeting appealed to the state government to release necessary fund for road restoration work.
Pipu, one of the oldest circle headquarters of East Kameng, which was established in 1971, still lacks basic faculties like proper road connectivity, medical facility and education, it said.
“It is better not to talk about electricity and telecommunication,” added the organisation.
Parl. Secy inaugurates community
hall, announces new projects
KHONSA, Sept 28: The Parliamentary Secretary for Supply and Transport and DoTCL, Tirong Aboh inaugurated a community hall at Lahu village about 29 kms from Khonsa amidst a huge gathering today.
While addressing the gathering, Aboh said that an additional fund of Rs. 10 lakhs would be sanctioned for the extension of community hall and Rs. 6 lakhs for construction of women's office building at Laho under DoTCL. He also announced Rs. 1 lakh for renovation of traditional welcome gate and Rs. 2 lakhs for procurement of power transformer at Laho from his MLALAD.
Aboh was concerned about the acute scarcity of water in Dadam Circle headquarter and Laho, especially in winter and said that an amount of Rs. 10 crore will be sanctioned shortly for augmentation of water supply project under NLCPR for which the Chief Minister has agreed.
Aboh said the Chief Minister had accepted most of the public grievances projected
by him for over all development of 56-
The MLA urged the teachers to be sincere and punctual in their noble duty of shaping the career of the young students adding that no society could march ahead without proper education.
While responding to a public memorandum, the MLA said that he would look into the matter raised on priority wherever possible. He further recalled the contributions of former Tirap DC Kamlesh Joshi and present CO 1st Assam Rifles in including Dadam area in BADP and creation of Dadam CD Block.
Earlier, the Parliamentary Secretary donated one motor cycle, a computer set and a colour TV to the OC Police Station, Khonsa in presence of Tirap SP Jasmeet Singh.
While sharing their views in the meeting CO 1st AR, SP Tirap, CO Dadam, Senior Public
leader Wangdi Hakhun appreciated the effort of Tirong Aboh who had brought about
tangible change of development in the 56-
A large number of Govt officers, panchayat leaders, public leaders, village chiefs, GBs attended the programme. DIPRO
Jairampur to become Opium free soon
ITANAGAR, Sept 28: Jairampur sub-
It was disclosed in a meeting convened by Jairampur ADC Kento Riba with Nampong SDO, and Manmao EAC which was also attended by Principals, Headmasters of GHHs, and Govt. Sec. School, Jairampur today.
As per reports, feedback received from the school authorities, administrative officers
of Nampong, Manmao and Jairampur it has been found that there is no cultivation of
Opium in Jairampur sub-
The school authorities are also doing their best on their part to help those few
student addicts to give up the bad habits. They are also regularly organising parent-
It was also revealed in the meeting that drug trafficking and peddling is frequently taking place along the porous state and international border.
While assuring of all necessary action to check drug trafficking, the Jairampur ADC said that similar meetings will be conducted at all administrative headquarters involving public and Panchayat leaders, GBs, parents and guardians.
Ering visits lower Ramle Bango, sanctions flood relief for affected areas
PASIGHAT, Sept 28: Lok Sabha MP Ninong Ering along with Nari ADC M Loyi and ZPM Kenyom Dabi carried out a whirlwind tour to lower Ramle Bango areas which have been ravaged by the recent flood. At New Deka village, Ering while attending a public meeting announced Rs. 10 lakhs for construction of a Community Hall and Rs. 6 lakhs for two culverts.
He also visited Nari, Telam and Name villages. At Name village, he felt the place is being threatened by Depi river and sanctioned of Rs. 15 lakhs for flood protection measures and immediate relief to the affected people. While visiting Pote village, the MP gave Rs. 5 lakhs for immediate restoration works and to tackle post flood situation. In all places, MP Ering said that for a better future and to maintain the sanctity of nature it depends on us as to how we maintain the ecological balance and keep the earth safe for generations to come. DIPRO
2nd edition of Adventure@Mechukha in Nov
MECHUKHA, Sept 28: Get ready for an adrenaline rush as the much awaited adventure
festival of the state ‘Adventure@Mechukha-
Adventure@Mechukha-
A coordination meeting was held at ADC Headquarters, Mechukha today wherein the date for the event was fixed on November 7, 8 and 9. Since it is a declared calendar event, the same dates on which the previous edition was conducted, was retained.
ADC Mechuka Tungge Loya while chairing the meeting called for formation of a committee and also asked for participation of Mechuka Eco Tourism & Conservation Society for a successful conduct of the adventure festival.
Local MLA and Parliamentary Secretary (Animal Husbandry and Civil Aviation) Pasang Dorjee Sona called for concerted efforts by all for smooth conduct of the festival. He informed all the officials and stakeholders about the significance of the festival and how such events help promote the tourism.
Chakma-
Solution is Possible
[ Nani Bath ]
The Chakmas and Hajongs, who hail originally from Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh
are actually displaced indigenous people. The region (CHT) was included as a part
of Pakistan after partition of India in 1947 in spite of the fact that most of the
inhabitants of the CHT are either Buddhist or Hindu. The Chakmas and other non-
From the years 1964-
The records of the Government of Arunachal Pradesh suggest that their population increased to 21,494 in 1979. All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union has estimated the population of Chakma and Hajong refugees to be 60,000. The 2001 Census has listed 39,920 Chakma population and 2,413 Hajongs.
It was a letter from P.M Sayed, then Minister of State (Home), to Nyodek Yonggam,
then MP (RS) that sparked a ‘critical phase’ in AAPSU’s movement against the refugees.
The letter in question reads: “under the Indira-
M.M Jacob, in 1992, replying to Laeta Umbrey, said that “these refugees were settled in Arunachal Pradesh in consultation with the State administration under a definite plan of rehabilitation”. He adds, “…they are eligible to the grant of citizenship according to the policy of the government on the subject”.
Subsequently, the Union of India (National Human Rights Commission vs. State of Arunachal
Pradesh, 1995) observed before the Supreme Court that decision to settle the Chakmas
in the state of Arunachal Pradesh was taken after discussion between the Government
of India and North-
The entry of political parties, including the one running the state government had heightened the emotive issues, even to the levels of violence, looking beyond ‘Mc Mahon Line’ in search of ‘lost brothers’, and ‘elimination’ of unpalatable political leaders.
It is reliably learnt that around 50 youths of the state were sent across the state
border for arms training. They, however, returned with no substantial training and
did not involve in any illegal activities thereafter. But for the intervention of
central forces, some of the youths could have used 40-
On more than one occasions, leaders of All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union, the
apex students’ body of the state, had exhibited what can be termed as ‘anti-
AAPSU had on many past occasions boycotted Republic and Independence Day celebrations. The Union’s actual intent may be different but the fact that it is trying to internationalise the issues shows the natives’ utter desperation.
The Arunachal Congress, a regional political party, is basically a by-
It was decided in the Rally that if the central government is unable to remove the Chakma and Hajong refugees within the stipulated time, all political leaders of the National Political Parties at the state level will resign from the primarily membership of their respective parties and will form a common organisation of indigenous people. It is learnt that the original draft of the Resolution did contain the words like ‘elimination of political leaders’ if they did not agree to resign from national political parties.
Yet another institutional intervention that ignited the minds of indigenous people
of the state was the decision of the Election Commission of India (by its 2004 Order)
to include 1,497 eligible Chakma and Hajong voters in the electoral rolls. The ECI
overruled a State Cabinet Resolution dated 14-
The Gauhati High Court dismissed a PIL filed by AAPSU against the guidelines issued
by the ECI for revision of Electoral Rolls respect of 14-
Boycott call was given to 2004 parliamentary elections by APPSU on the question of
voting rights to the Chakmas and Hajongs. A lesser-
The Rajya Sabha Committee on Petition (1997) recommended that “the Chakmas of Arunachal Pradesh who came prior to 15.3.1971 be granted Indian citizenship. ….the Committee also recommends that Chakmas be also considered for granting the status of Scheduled Tribes at the time of granting the citizenship”.
The Arunachal Congress was formed with much fanfare ostensibly to continue to struggle for removal of the Chakma and Hajong refugees from Arunachal Pradesh. It did not happen as its leaders jumped to other national parties. Nor was the boycott call of AAPSU in 2004 supported by the political parties.
In reply to an unstarred question by Nabam Rebia (1999), the Minister of Home Affairs,
L.K. Advani categorically stated that the government does not consider the Chakma-
For national parties, the state of Arunachal Pradesh being a part of India should also share the national responsibility in resettling them. The BJP (Jan Sangh) considers Buddhism as a part of the extended family of Hinduism. As such, the party’s support for the Chakmas, who are Buddhist by religion and the Hajongs, who are Hindus, is only natural. The recent circular allowing minority communities from Bangladesh to stay without valid documents in Assam is an expression in this line. .
The successive Congress governments’ position remained unchanged. After all, Indira
Gandhi was the chief architect of 1972 Indira-
The recent SC ruling reaffirmed that they (refugees) cannot be required to obtain any Inner Line Permit as they are settled in the State of Arunachal Pradesh. The Court directs the Government and India and State of Arunachal Pradesh to “finalise the conferment of citizenship rights on eligible Chakmas and Hajongs….. at the earliest preferably within three months from today (September 17, 2015)”.
Given the facts and circumstances, is it advisable to sit for dharnas and march in
protest? Is it not the time for unity at different levels? It is definitely not the
best time to score political points. It is a good time for across-
By the time this article appears in newspapers, the AAPSU would have finished its
protest march, and all-
Three questions are uppermost in the minds of every ‘thinking’ individuals of Arunachal Pradesh. First, why Mr. Chief Minister is unable to engage top lawyers of the country, who got him a stay order in a personal case? Secondly, will the state unit of BJP be able to become the master of the party’s ideology (read: Hindutva)? Lastly, will the AAPSU use this ‘extraordinary’ issue as an alibi for extension of its present tenure?
Perusal of the recent SC judgment gives an impression that the ruling is based on
facts and constitutional principles. The judgment in question, however, throws more
questions than answers. The apex court rules that the Chakmas and Hajongs are to
be granted citizenship based on an argument that they have been already settled in
the state since 1964-
There are presumably thousands of illegal Muslim immigrants, many of whom are married to local ladies and settled for one or two decades. The capital city alone has a significant numbers of such people.
To my understanding, the state government has plenary power to regulate the entry
of “not being a native” as per the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873. The
government is also empowered to sanction acquiring of land or the product of land
within the state. Post-
Let us assume that the state government had permitted the entry and settlement of the Chakmas and Hajongs in the state, as per 1873 Regulation. Now a legal or constitutional question is: does the state government have power to evict them as per the same Regulation? Is the Supreme Court, by its direction, questioning the legal or constitutional validity of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873?
The administration of justice in the state works under the framework of the Assam Frontier (Administration of Justice) Regulation, 1945.
As of now, there is absence of proper demarcations of boundaries between the judiciary and the executive. Administration of justice by village authorities (Gaon Buras) includes disputes regarding occupation and use of land or management of forests. What if the village authorities rule that the land allotted to the refugees is invalid as per customary legal sense?
It is, therefore, expressed that the Supreme Court could have dealt on the legal or constitutional questions before directing the state governments for direct action.
How does the government determine the principles governing eligibility of the Chakmas
and Hajongs? It would be an extremely difficult exercise, as there are different
categories of Chakmas. The first group (core group) of Chakmas are those who were
settled during 1964-
Some of the Chakmas are still reported to be sneaking into different refugee champs. This in turn has resulted in encroachment of the reserved forests and land belonging to the host communities. There are also reports of illegal activities carried by some Chakma groups. Dozens of such cases are recorded in various police stations Changlang district.
Native inhabitants are to be party blamed for continuing in-
Political leaders in the affected areas, irrespective of political affiliations, are said to be playing the role of ‘guardianship’ for the refugees. Refugees would be either enrolled as genuine voters or may be used to act as ‘bogus voter’ whenever necessity. One of the MLAs is accused of sending ‘congratulatory message’ to the refugees for having granted citizenship rights.
Besides political leadership, skepticism has been casted on the role of students’ organisations in leading the movement against the refugees. There are skeptics who believe that the refugee issue has been used as a ‘political ladder’. Many believe that it is high time for the organisations like Arunachal Indigenous Tribal Forum (AITF) to come forward and lead the moment for better tomorrow.
A Committee to examine various issues relating to settlement of Chakmas/Hajong in Arunachal Pradesh was constituted by the Government of India, Ministry of Home Affairs (N.E. Division) on August, 2010. It could have intervened by reporting the matter, of its activities, to the Supreme Court. It did not happen as the Committee was not proceeding as expected.
Legal fraternity would be given to understand that the latest judgment of the Supreme
Court is simple reiteration of 1995 National Human Rights Commission vs. State of
Arunachal Pradesh case, in the same court. The only difference is time-
In the 1995 ruling, the SC directed, inter-
As such, events such as rallies, demonstrations, protests may be of little or no
help to the protesting parties. It is a good time for across-
A report of the Cabinet Committee on Chakma-
….no apparent objection on granting of Indian Citizenship to CHR in conformity with
the Rules/Acts; issue of Inner Line Permits to the CHakmas and Hajongs; conduct a
special survey on CH inhabited areas to find out the exact number as on date and
also settled during 1964-
The district administration of Papum Pare has done exhaustive survey of the Chakma population in eight refugee settlement blocks of Balijan circle. As per the survey report, there are 372 households with 2,077 persons. Similar exercise may be done for other areas as well.
It is extremely important that the political interests of the indigenous population
are protected. It is in this context that the recommendation regarding unreserved
assembly constituency assumes greater significance. For example, 49-
Apart from Chakmas and Hajongs issue, Tibetan refugees must also figure in the agenda
of AAPSU or for that matter any organisation fighting for the indigenous communities.
Apparently, the Tibetans look non-
(Concluded)
(Prof. Bath teaches in the Department of Political Science, Rajiv Gandhi University and can be contacted at nanibath@rediffmail.com.)
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Support ISRO
India's first dedicated astronomy research satellite Astrosat was successfully launched
this morning. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle PSLV-
Interestingly the rocket also carried six small satellites of foreign customers from the US, Canada and Indonesia into their orbits. This marks the first commercial launch of US payloads from India. Today ISRO has once again demonstrated its capabilities to the rest of world. Last year they created history when India became the first country to successfully get a spacecraft into the Martian orbit on its maiden attempt. Time and again Indian Space Research Organization's (ISRO) has made nation proud with their remarkable achievement. What is more heartening is that ISRO has managed to make these achievements with modest budget. Today developed nations make beeline in ISRO office to seek help of the Indian facilities. Government of India should take note of the contribution of ISRO and extend all possible help to them. Especially they should pumps in more funds into the organizations to support their activities. The achievement of ISRO shows that if given proper support Indian scientists can do wonder. Therefore, government of India should give focus on research related activities.
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Post and pre paid meters and lesson to learn
Dear Editor,
I am neither a supporter nor an opposition of prepaid meter/electricity system.
I am simply a consumer of electricity. Before coming to the main content, I would like to highlight the instant cases of post paid and prepaid system in mobile connection.
Here consumers have right to choose between prepaid and post-
The telecom department have more prepaid consumers than post-
The power department can take some lessons from the telecom department. The department should study the ground reality to popularise the prepaid system as done by telecom sector. If the power department provide lower connection charges & lower tariff, then there may be no need for the department to forcefully install prepaid system. Does the telecom sector forcefully give prepaid connection to a consumer?
Yours,
A citizen
Al languages should be equally treated, honoured and promoted
Dear Editor,
This is in response to Saikat Kumar Basu’s letter titled “Encourage and revive languages” (September 25).
While offering zealous support to the Centre for organizing World Hindi Conference
through State resource, which is nothing but taxes garnered from the hard-
But before congratulating the Hindi-
However an attitude of equal treatment towards all languages is too much to expect
from the Hindi fanatics at the Centre. While a division bench of Gujarat High Court,
comprising of Chief Justice S.J.Mukhopadhaya and Justice A.S.Dave has categorically
declared that there is no “national language” in India; another bench of the same
High Court, comprising of Justice V.M.Sahai and A.J.Desai, has delivered a historic
judgement —— Hindi is a foreign language for Gujaratis — which directly implies
that the status of the indigenous languages in all non-
Yours,
Kajal Chatterjee,
Kolkata
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