Traffic chaos gets worse in Capital, no immediate solution in sight
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: The traffic congestion in capital complex is getting increasingly worse due to blockade near Hotel PYBSS. Massive jam was reported on Tuesday from across Itanagar.
Due to blockade near the Hotel, the traffic has been diverted to Doordarshan and Abotani colony routes. However, the one lane sector roads are not able to deal with sheer high volume of traffic. It took almost two hours to cover a mere one KM distance between DDK and Higher Education office.
Adding to the woes, near ESS-sector one portion of road has caved in. If authorities do not initiate steps to protect it, the road might collapse in case of heavy rainfall.
In Abotani colony, PWD seems to have forgotten that approach road is as important as the bridge. Even though the construction of bridge is almost finished, the condition of approach road is in horrible condition. Many vehicles got stuck in the mud which caused more jam in the route. The Bailey bridge near Division IV, which can accommodate only one way traffic, is also another trouble for the motorists. Making matter worse, the authorities on Tuesday diverted traffic from Ganga market towards Abotani route. This led to further congestion.
While the capital dweller battles traffic woes, the state government has not been able to take any concrete decision regarding construction of bridge near Hotel PYBSS.
According to the sources, Chief Minister Kalikho Pul is pushing for construction of RCC Bridge instead of temporary bridge while the highway is being repaired.
"CM is concerned and wants to ensure that permanent bridge is constructed which can face any kind of natural calamities. But problem is that construction of RCC Bridge will take almost 3 months and this will lead to massive chaos. The PWD Highway has suggested for temporary measures and construction of permanent bridge starting from September month after proper planning," informed a source.
With no relief in sight, the capital dwellers will have to be ready for more trouble in days to come.
Public Distribution System minus the public
[ Tongam Rina ]
In a state like Arunachal where agricultural produce is minimal, there is an overwhelming dependence on subsidised rice and other essential items provided by the centre through Public Distribution System (PDS).
While people who are dependent on PDS, either have to satisfy their hunger with just two meals a day or buy rice from the open market, people responsible for making PDS work; officials, contractors and politicians who have been given responsibility of mitigating hungry stomaches in the state have ended up illegally profiting crores of rupees.
The loophole in the system is such that respective governments in the state have been forced to tow the lines of the PDS contractors. It is not surprising given the fact that MPs, MLAs, their wives, children and close relatives are PDS contractors. Politicians, cutting across political parties make money through PDS. The biggest irony is that some of them have been indicted by the Court, but they continue to pull the political strings.
In a state, where common citizens, numerous unions, organizations and students Unions keep quite unless it directly benefits them, it is not surprising that for gobbling up the rice meant for the poor, many politicians, contractors and officials are rewarded with power, positions and plum postings.
It's not only PDS rice that has been responsible in making thieves of the highest order turn into powerful business tycoons and politicians.
There is kerosene, salt, sugar and flour that comes under PDS. No one knows what happens to these necessary items.
The role of Food Corporation of India is another story altogether.
The falsifications of data by contractors have been easily accepted by those in authority, without any question.
Two prime examples of falsifications; an individual consuming 24 kg of iodised salt and 64 kg rice every month. There has not been any decision as yet by the court on these issues while the payment of contractors has reached the highest court of the country. What does it spell for the common people who are dependent on PDS rice and other essential commodities?
A precedent was set in 2007 when money for the PDS contractors was first cleared, without much questions asked. The Court has a model to follow based on the payments made than. The same people who had a hand in clearance of bills than, is now telling us that PDS will be on track.
Nabam Tuki govt was forced to clear the bills, though it is said that selective contractors were paid. Later, Tuki govt unsuccessfully challenged the Court order but Court had already given its verdict in favour of clearance of payments.
The current govt have to follow suit because there is an order from the highest Court to clear the bill amounting to more than Rs 200 cr. Among others, at least one PPA MLA will get a chunk of the PDS money if the govt choose not to appeal in the court, which is rather unlikely.
Governor JP Rajkhowa is reported to have ordered an inquiry into PDS dealing in the state when there was President's Rule. Ironically, the cheerleader from Raj Bhavan has gone silent on the issue after change of guard.
Because of flawed PDS, we have dozens of millionaire politicians, contractors and govt employees, who have gotten rich and richer robbing the poor of their food. Yet again, we have been told that PDS will be revamped in the state. Though the names of those governing the state have changed, it is going to be another joke played in the name of the PDS and the poor. It is not the common people that have benefited from the PDS in the state; in a strange turn of events, it's selective few, in the name of poor Arunachalees.
Itanagar no more a safe place: BJP
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: The Arunachal Pradesh unit of Bharatiya Janata party (BJP) has identified seven areas in Itanagar as most disaster prone and suggested the Capital Complex administration to declare those areas as 'disaster prone area'.
The areas which the party identified as disaster prone include, shopping and residential complexes along C- Sector, '0' point and Mithun Gate, Akash Deep and Vivek Vihar streams, banks of Yopo Nallah and River Senki as well as Chandranagar area.
Claiming that Itanagar is no more a safe place to live due to danger posed by illegal and unauthorized construction of high rise buildings, forceful diversion of natural streams and rivulet, landslides due to illegal earth cutting, the party appealed to the Deputy Commissioner to prevail upon those wrong doers.
Clear financial position: AAPSU
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU) has asked the state government to come clean on the financial position of the state as reportedly many cheques issued to contractors by various departments during March this year have bounced due to non-availability of fund. "Many contractors who have invested their life-long savings have been running from pillar to posts as the cheques issued to them by departments have bounced. The non-availability of fund in the departments is due to overdraft," AAPSU President Kamta Lapung said in a statement here on Tuesday.
Lapung further asked the government to clear the contractors' payment within a week.
"The state government cannot betray the contractors who are entirely dependent on contract works. It is the duty of the government to look after the welfare of the contractors and clear their legitimate due within a week. If the government cannot do so, the chief minister and his council of minister should gracefully resign," Lapung categorically said.
The apex students' body of the state also threatened to launch "democratic movement" if the government fails to clear all the pending dues of the contractors within the stipulated time, the statement added.
APCC questions Pul on PDS
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has reacted to the state cabinet's decision to file a writ petition against Food Corporation of India (FCI) for reimbursement of Hill Transport Subsidy (HTS) liability.
'Pul who shouted in the past against Congress government regarding release of PDS pending bills is now clearing it,' it mocked asking why Pul is not initiating for early completion of PDS scam pending in the Gauhati high court, so that all the accused are punished as per the law of land.' It also questioned BJP's silence on the issue.
APCC also criticized the Governor asking him not to be mere spectator to the financial dilemma in the state.
'Why is he not behaving like he did five months back against the Congress government, APCC said as it questioned the Governor of having doubtful integrity with soft corner towards BJP and PPA'.
Deprived JEs appeal for early implementation of Governor Order
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: The Junior Engineers (JE) serving under Public Works Department (PWD) who claim to have been deprived of promotion, have appealed to the state government to properly implement the recent order passed by Governor banning officiating, functional and out of turn promotion system. In a press release, a group of senior JEs working in PWD for the last 18 years and have not been promoted owing to lack of political connection, have made fervent appeal for immediate implementation of the order.
"We have been serving as JE in the department since 18 years with utmost dedication and without any adverse service records. As such, we have been legitimately expecting our promotion for past many years but till date our case has not been considered. As per seniority list we should be given first preference. But unfortunately, many of our junior got posted as officiating or functional AE using political influence which is gross violation of recruitment as well as service rule," stated the group of 12 engineers.
Even though the order issued by Governor had given them ray of hope, the JEs holding functional charge as AE moved a Writ Petition challenging the Office Memo issued by the Governor in Writ Petition No. 164/2016 and somehow managed to obtain a favorable order dated 29/03/2016 from the High Court. The deprived JEs also alleged that even after the order issued by Governor, the department has completely ignored their case.
"Despite availability of eligible senior JEs for posting and holding functional charge, most ironically nineteen junior JEs have been allowed to hold functional charge who are much junior as per seniority list. This happened despite Governor's order. Our repeated plea to senior PWD officials has been totally ignored," they alleged. The engineers also claimed that in 2010 Gauhati high court while hearing a petition had passed order directing that, "if the department finds necessary in the exigency of service to allow any Junior Engineer in the department to hold the functional charge of Assistant Engineer, it could be done so only by allowing the senior most Junior Engineer in the department. In the interest of public service, department may hold DPC for filling up the present vacancy, if any, in a regular manner by following the existing rules and procedure."
The court had issued clear instruction to PWD not to allow functional and officiating culture. The engineers also alleged that this judgment was hidden by the department and they were kept in darkness.
"Only recently we managed to get a copy of judgment. By failing to implement this order the department has indulge in contempt of court, which is an offence under law. We have again knocked door of law in this regard. But we also appeal Governor JP Rajkhowa and Chief Minister Kalikho Pul not to do injustice to us," the engineers added.
Ziro road ideal for pisciculture: Taro Chatung
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: Annoyed with bad roads, Taro Chatung, the inimitable journalist of the state has announced that he is going to cultivate fish in the major potholes adorning the Hapoli -Ziro township road.
"About 8 Km of the highway road from Hapoli to Ziro town has 18 major, hundreds of medium sized and thousands of small potholes, filled with pre monsoon rain. For the next four months starting from May, the potholes will be filled with water making it ideal for pisciculture" he said in a release.
"I have decided to use the potholes in a productive way by putting thousands of fingerlings into 18 major potholes of Ziro- Hapoli Highway in first part of May 2016" Chatung said. After the fishes are harvested, one kilo each will be gifted to Raj Bhawan, Chief Minister's Secretariat and Chief Engineer (Highway) as a mark of respect for keeping the road without maintenance for a long time, enabling me to cultivate fish without much labour, said Chatung.
World Malaria Day observed across state
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: Students from Arunachal State Nursing Schools, Naharlagun and Lekhi Public School took part in various activities including a mass rally under the guidance of State Vector Borne Disease Control Program Society, Naharlagun and District Vector Borne Disease Control Society, Yupia to mark the World Malaria Day on Monday.
Speaking on the occasion, NVBDCP Joint Director-cum-SPO, Dr. Allok Yirang spoke about Malaria and various vector borne diseases and its prevention and treatment with emphasis on using Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLIN). He further urged all to avail various services like free RDT test kits and anti malaria drugs, which are available in all health centres.
Borum Panchayat ZPM, Techi Tolu also appealed to the students and general public to keep their surrounding hygienic to minimize spread of vector-borne disease.
Later, prizes were also distributed to the winners of essay writing and skit competition during the program.
At Siyum, the day was also observed with holding of mass rally, signature campaign, quiz competition besides, various sessions on preventive and curative methods of malaria.
The events were conducted by Caritas India and Itanagar Empowerment Association (IDEA), an NGO in collaboration with District Vector Born disease Control Programme at the Inspection Bungalow.
While focusing on this year's theme 'End Malaria for Good', Dr. Riya S.D of Divine Mercy Health Centre, Siyum appealed to the people to focus on preventive aspects using impregnated mosquito net, allowing DDT to be sprayed inside every house and draining out all water collected around the house.
At Namsai, District Health Society, National Vector Borne Disease Control Programe and National Health Mission observed the World Malaria Day along with the State level SWITC Programe of Trivalent OPV to Bivalent OPV throughout the district.
On the inaugural day, Namsai DC, RK Sharma administered bOPV drops to a child amidst the presence of Medical officials and ASHAs at CHC Namsai. The DC directed all the staffs to remain sincere towards discharging their duties to make people aware of health related issues mainly malaria and gastro intestinal diseases and vaccine preventable illness in the society.
Earlier, a meeting of District Task Force (DTF) on Mission Indradhanush phase III and SWICH programme was held under the chairmanship of the DC on Apr 20 last.
In the meeting which was attended by all the Medical Officers in charge of PHC and CHC, ICDS officers, PRI members and Health staffs, the DC directed all MOs in charges to take special care while preparing micro plans before each immunization round.
Medical Superintendent, Dr. C L Manchey also briefed about the SWICH of tOPV to bOPV in the state and introduction of injectable OPV in the routine immunization programme.
While speaking about World Malaria Day NVBDCP DPO, Dr. C M Thamoung highlighted the role of field workers in controlling Malaria in the district and appealed to all para medical staff to cooperate with each other for proper conducting of National Vector Borne disease control programme and other NHM activities.
Later in the day, the DVBDCP in collaboration with Seva Kendra of East Arunachal organized a street play on the theme 'End Malaria for Good' at Namsai market and showed a documentary on Malaria. An awareness rally was also organized at Chowkham.
Block Level session on MVMDP guidelines
PASIGHAT, Apr 26: A Block Level session on MVMDP guidelines for smooth and timely preparation of Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDP) by the Gram Panchayats in East Siang district commenced at the Siang Guest House here on Monday.
In his inaugural address DC incharge, Bani Lego called upon the delegates to utilize the opportunity to actively participate in the session. He further hoped that the issues and concerns raised during the process of brainstorming would be discussed at the proposed 'District level Brainstorming Session on Participatory Planning under MVMDP Guidelines 2015' scheduled to be held at the DC's Conference Hall on Apr 28 next.
East Siang ZPC, Kaling Dai also briefed the delegates about the importance of the MVMDP guidelines. Stating that the SIRD Arunachal Pradesh has aptly termed the intervention as brainstorming, as it would allow open discussion by all concerned in a transparent manner, he called for conducting training programmes covering all Gram Panchayats in East Siang.
He further called for early constitution of Gram Panchayat Development Committees (GPDCs) by the district administration.
'These GPDCs will have to properly analyse the GP level development needs in reference to a proper thorough analysis of living condition and development indicators at the GP level, and accordingly decide on development priorities. The corresponding GPDPs would be accordingly based on these development priorities as approved by the concerned Gram Sabhas', he informed. He also said that as per guidelines of MVMDP, notified by the state government, the GPDPs would be forwarded to corresponding Anchal Samiti and Anchal Samities would forward it to the Zilla Parishad while, the Zilla Parishad would be forwarding the plans to the District Planning Committee for final approval.
Addressing the delegates, Deputy Director-cum-Course Coordinator SIRD, Dr. Rakesh Srivastava informed the delegates that under the provisions of MVMDP Guidelines 2015 and the corresponding provisions of 14 Finance Commission Grants, the funds including first instalment of FFC Grants for 2015-16 have been released to concerned District Panchayati Raj Development Officers for onward release to concerned Gram Panchayats. Consequent to the notification of MVMDP Guidelines 2015, all the 1776 GPs in the state are required to develop proper GPDPs as per provisions of MVMDP Guidelines 2015. The implementation of important rural development programmes such as MGNREGA and PM Awas Yojana (Grameen) etc. have also been linked to these Gram Sabha based plans, he added. (DIPRO)
DCs appeal for disaster preparedness
KHONSA, Apr 26: Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha asked the rapid action, search and rescue and the incident response teams to remain vigilant, alert and fully prepared.
In a disaster preparedness meeting on Tuesday, the Deputy Commissioner asked the DDMO and HoDs to identify temporary centres for use during unforeseen disasters, like floods, landslides, cloud bursts etc.
The DC further said that equipments for search and rescue operation would be procured.
Jha sought suggestion from all to make the district fully prepared to tackle any eventualities due to natural calamities. The Deputy Commissioner requested the BRTF, PWD and other agencies to keep their men and machinery in readiness to press into service during emergency situations. He asked the concern departments to clear the water logging in the drains in Khonsa Township which could trigger landslides.
Jha, meanwhile, told that suitable steps were afoot to improve the power scenario in the district.
Various disaster preparedness measures to tackle emergency situation in case of earthquake, fire and flood etc were discussed in the meeting.
The meeting was attended by administrative officers of the district, SP, representatives of 16 Assam Rifles, CRPF, BRTF deployed in the district.
Meanwhile, the coordination meeting of district executive committee for disaster management and preparedness was held under the chairmanship of Lower Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner, Ravi Dhawan at the DC's chamber on Tuesday.
Responding to report of flooding situation, DC directed the DDMO to visit Anpum and Loklung along with CO Paglam, JEs of PWD, PHED and WRD for a first hand report. He sought latest report on stock position of medicines, food items of Dambuk and Hunli Sub-Division and urged every department to maintain updated list of resources. He also emphasized on road connectivity, drinking water supply and stock position of life saving drugs in all remote health units besides measures for prevention of Dengue and Malaria.
Further, the DC informed that district administration will set up an institutional mechanism for prompt Disaster Response Centre in coordination with ITBP, Police, BRTF and counterparts in Sadiya to mitigate any disaster like situation.
The committee further scrutinized FDR schemes submitted by various works departments and other disaster related issues in the district.
Considering the estimate submitted by the AE, Hydro Power (E&M), the DC directed the DDMO to obtain necessary papers for restoration of Deopani MHS Phase I-II at Roing. DIPROs
Mein gives top priority to road
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein accompanied by a team of departmental engineers on Tuesday conducted an extensive tour of Itanagar and Naharlagun areas and took stock of various development works.
Talking to the media persons after the visits, the Deputy Chief Minister asserted that the Capital Complex would soon witness completion of various key development projects. He informed that the road leading to Donyi Polo Vidya Bhawan School would be taken up on priority basis as this school is one of the premier schools of the State.
Earlier, councilors of IMC Kabak Taka and Gora Lotak appealed to the DCM for improving the road leading to the school.
He admitted that the conditions of roads in entire Capital Complex are in very bad shape which needs to be drastically improved. Mein said he would be seeking support from his cabinet colleagues to have better quality roads in the State and to ease the traffic woes in Capital Complex.
To ease the traffic movement, circular roads, by-pass, ring-road and CC pavement in various places will be taken up soon, Mein said. The State Government has taken up all these projects on priority, he said.
Speaking about the development works in Capital Complex, Mein said that it is a continued process and the Chief Minister is personally monitoring the progress of all developmental works in State.
The Deputy CM said that it is the prime duty of the government to give better infrastructure to the public and disclosed that the work on Papunallah-Jullung road will begin from April 27 and roads in all sector will be converted to CC pavement.
Mein also took stock of the proposed diversion road along the Borum foot suspension bridge that would connect Model Village in Naharlagun to Papu-Yupia road to ease the traffic movement.
While inspecting the construction work at Naharlagun Mini Secretariat, the DCM directed the executing agencies to ensure the quality of work.
At Itanagar, the Deputy Chief Minister visited the Civil Secretariat and the State Legislative Assembly site and took stock of the construction works. He also checked the interiors of the Civil Secretariat buildings, nearing its completion, before proceeding to the Legislative Assembly Building.
Mein was informed by the team of engineers that the work in Civil Secretariat and Legislative Assembly building are going on in full swing.
The Deputy Chief Minister directed the officials to ensure proper monitoring of the ongoing and upcoming works in the area so that basic facilities were provided to people.
Mein was accompanied by Parliamentary Secretary (PWD) Mutchu Mithi, Chief Engineer (Western Zone) and other departmental engineers.
Meanwhile, Mein expressed grief at the death of 18 people in two separate landslides in Tawang district.
He appealed to the people of the State to remain alert during the monsoon season so that such tragedy does not recur.
ZPM seeks better connectivity for Dibang Valley
[ Karyir Riba ]
ROING, Apr 26: ZPM of Anini-Aliney CD Block Dipen Molo in a memorandum to Chief Minister Kalikho Pul on Friday last demanded early completion of the Deo-Pani Bridge, regular maintenance of the one way road from Roing to Anini by the BRTF, scrapping of the many Non-functional HE Power projects undergoing in the district, improvement of the BSNL network in the district, re-demarcation of Wildlife area in the district, immediate start of construction of the two lane highway from Meka to Anini, among others.
Dibang Valley remains cut off from the rest of the country every year during rainy season for weeks or more causing a lot of harassment to the people of the district. It said that the Deo-Pani Bridge which has been under construction for more than a decade is yet to be completed.
It said that because of the poor and negligible repair and maintenance of the road over the last few years, the condition of the road remains pathetic. It favoured regular maintenance of the one way road from Roing to Anini by the BRTF.
Demanding scrapping of many non-functional HE power projects undergoing in the district, the memorandum said that out of the many HE projects, except the Etalin 3097 MW and Athunli 500 MW owned by JPL which are at advance stage, all other projects and their developers have not initiated even PFR of their projects. Dibang Valley is a storehouse of hydro-power and such colossal Hydro potential should be taped for power generation by vibrant developers. Hence, projects should be handed over to able and vibrant companies by scraping the earlier MOA's.
While demanding re-demarcation of Wildlife area in the district, the memorandum stated that based upon the notification of the DC in the year 1998 a total land measuring 4147 sqkm out of the total 9129 sq km have been demarcated for Wildlife area in Dibang Valley District. Although the formalities were adopted but PRI functionaries, GBs, elder persons and educated youths were kept in the dark. This might be an act to malign the traditional rights and privileges of the local tribal people, snatch away their Jhum fields who are predominantly dependant upon their ancestral forest lands for survival. Such a vast forest land converted into restricted forest land will also affect in the execution of many upcoming HE projects in Dibang Valley District.
In a yet another letter, the ZPM requested the CM to shoulder BRO the responsibility for construction of the upcoming Meka to Anini Trans Arunachal Highway for best results.
Rain damages roads in Yingkiong
YINGKIONG, Apr 26: Heavy and incessant rainfall over past few weeks have caused major damages to roads in Yingkiong Township.
The recently constructed cement concrete road from PWD office to BRTF road via Veterinary office and road from Bank Tinali to the DC's bungalow were the worst affected.
Sporadic mud slide has also caused damage to the road formation at various locations.
As reported by Jengging Anchal Samity Chairperson Yasam Nangkar, the RWD approach road from BRTF road to Gosang village has also been completely washed out in landslide. The road is considered as the life- line for the people of Gosang village.
At Anjaw, road communication between Hayuliang-Hawai-Walong is still cut off, DIPRO reported.
NSCN cadre nabbed
CHANGLANG, Apr 26: Security forces nabbed a NSCN (R) cadre from Old Changlang early Sunday morning.
Acting on intelligence input, the Jawans of Assam Rifles under the aegis of 25 Sector cordoned off the general area of Old Changlang and launched search operations which led to the apprehension of SS Sergeant Major Nanghap Jugli, 35, from Old Changlang, according to army sources.
A Chinese made 7.65mm pistol, 3 rounds and magazine were recovered from his possession. The apprehended NSCN cadre was handed over to the Changlang Police Station, and a case has been registered against him and further investigation launched, the report added.
RGU exams
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: Rajiv Gandhi University will conduct examinations for Postgraduates, BCA, B.Ed, M. Phil courses from May 2 to 27. Detailed examination schedule/programme can be seen at university website: www.rgu.ac.in or in the respective department, according to a university notification.
Hoju Kuwah celebrated at Dadam
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: 24th Hoju was centrally celebrated at Dadam on April 25 with traditional fervour and gaiety.
Addressing a huge gathering of revellers, Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha said that a number of permanent infrastructures have come up at Dadam and hoped in a few years Dadam would function smoothly as a CO administrative unit. He appreciated the local MLA for initiating construction of a number of roads, Police Station, school buildings, playgrounds, inspection bungalow, helipad, CD Block, BADP and other development projects.
Tirap Superintendent of Police Jasmeet Singh said that a few years ago there were no proper road connectivity and other facilities.
Tirong Aboh the local MLA and the chief patron of the Hoju festival appealed to the people to maintain unity. DIPRO
Photography Club visit Grace Shelter Home
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: Members of Ziro Photography Club (ZPC) visited Grace Shelter Home, a home for physically challenged, orphans and destitute run by Apatani Baptist Association (ABA) on Monday last.
The members including ZPC President, Nending Ommo and Secretary, Tadu Omo interacted with the occupants of Grace Shelter Home and captured candid moments of their visit.
'Photography is a beautiful art and we want the world to see the beauty of the physically challenged children through our lenses', said Tadu Omo while, ZPC President Nending Ommo lauded the Rev. Tage Donyi of ABA and Takhe Yallu for their altruistic work.
Capacity building training under BADP
KHONSA, Apr 26: Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha inaugurated a 3-week-long capacity building training programme under BADP at Khonsa on April 26.
In his inaugural address, the Deputy Commissioner asked the training providers to impart training strictly as per the proposals made under the BADP.
While expressing his desire to see more participants in the training programme, the DC urged the DDMO and the administrative officers and BDOs in the outposts to rope in the services of chiefs, GBs and PRI leaders to get more trainees from far-flung border areas.
He further asked the trainees to take the training programme seriously to get maximum benefit out of it. The DC advised the trainees to gainfully utilize the practical knowledge and skills acquired during the training that would help in earning their livelihood.
Earlier, DDMO Papang Duggong highlighted the salient features of the training.
The Coordinator of GPTI Nanyok Lowang while briefing the participants threw light on the objectives of the training programme and highlighted the advantages of having basic skills in computer, painting, tailoring, beauty culture and hair dressing.
The EAC-cum-BDO of Lazu, DDI, ADTH and others also spoke in the meeting.
The training programme is organized by the Tirap district administration and sponsored by the centre.
Trained professionals from Gorgeous Parlour Training Institute (GPTI), are providing the training on various trades. DIPRO
Encouraging to see youth venturing into tourism sector: DC
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: Upper Subansiri Deputy Commissioner Komkar Dulom said that it was very encouraging to see unemployed youths venturing into tourism sector for self employment. He said this while attending a function organized recently at Mall Bottom Tourist Lodge in Daporijo.
The lodge is managed and run by Dosh Dasi, who is an unemployed youth. He has currently employed five unemployed youths.
While visiting the renovated building, Dulom cautioned anti-social elements to refrain from creating any trouble or disturbance at the lodge.
Later, the Deputy Commissioner distributed cash prizes to the winners of cultural competition organized on the occasion.
Capacity building prog for cardamom cultivators
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: To encourage farmers of Anjaw to take up Large Cardamom cultivation, the first phase of capacity building and skill development programme was held at Hawai on Monday.
Representatives from Spices Board, Atoka Sema spoke on scope for re-plantation of Large Cardamom sponsored by the Board.
Hawai EAC T Pertin and ASM chairperson Chenumlu Khamblai also attended the programme and appealed to the participants to take advantage of the training and apply the knowledge they have learnt.
A local low cost but effective drying system developed by Horticulture Development Officer, Hawai TT Hai, was demonstrated.
The programme was attended by more than 35 farmers, PRI leaders and members. DIPRO
AAPSU appeals state govt
ITANAGAR, Apr 26: The members of All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) on Tuesday gathered at NEFA club building to pay condolence to those who lost their lives in the recent landslide at Tawang and other parts of the state as it appealed for help to the flood victims.
AAPSU appealed state government to provide compensation to every flood victim of the state in order to help them restart their normal life.
Meanwhile, union appreciated the prompt and sensible reaction of state and central government in this hour of crisis.
AAPSU suggested that recently announced financial package should be immediately released to the next kin of the deceased after proper verification.
Further, they called upon state government to deploy sufficient resources and materials for immediate action against natural calamities in the state. While welcoming the mock drill carried out by the administration in the capital complex, AAPSU appealed the state government to conduct more mock drill in other parts of the state to keep the public alert on natural disaster.
NFSA to be implemented in East Siang
PASIGHAT, Apr 26: A meeting for the implementation of National Food Security Act (NFSA) with the FPS owners of Pasighat was held under the chairmanship of East Siang DC (incharge) Bani Lego.
DFCSO, Bijoy Pertin informed that NFSA will be implemented from April.
On the complaint by the FPS owners that they get rice bags which are short on weight, Pertin instructed them to be strict and receive the items after proper weight and measurements.
Checking of multiple ration cards is already going on, DFCSO said as he instructed the FPS owners to lift the NFSA allotments immediately. DIPRO
Awareness camp for women and girl child
PANGIN, Apr 26: A programme on Kishori Shakti Yojana and Protection of Women from Domestic Violence was conducted at Community Hall, Pangin on Monday.
A total of 97 adolescent girls with 132 anganwadi workers' and helper's of Pangin/Riga ICDS Project were present in the meeting.
CDPO Omang Tangu informed the importance of KSY scheme.
Resource person from Health Department, Dr. A. Darung advised all the participants to take all necessary steps to be hygienic.
On Tuesday, an awareness cum sensitization camp regarding the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act,2005 (PWDV) and Protection of Children from Sexual Offence, Act,2012 (POCSO) was conducted at Pangin.
Pangin CO, Dr. R. Mibang informed the participants regarding the special attention given by government for women and children by enactment Acts to tackle the rising incidences of crime against women and children.
Legal expert Tate Mize elaborated about the Domestic Violence against the Women and Sexual Offence against children. DIPRO
Tributes paid to Sushen Pao
Correspondent
RUKSIN, Apr 26: Former Deputy Commissioner who served in West Siang and East Siang districts, Sushen Pao was remembered by citizens of Arunachal as well as Assam on Tuesday. He passed away in Jan this year.
The Central Committee of Donyi-Polo Yelam Kebang (DPYK), Pasighat organized a ceremony at Migom village, Jonai, wherein many people from Assam and Arunachal recalled Pao's valued contributions to the society.
Recalling the wisdom of late Pao, retired IAS Oshong Ering said that Pao was a sincere and dedicated administrator.
Ering released a Souvenir titled "Ajeyo Yatra" containing collection of articles on his life.
Former Rajya Sabha MP Nyodek Yonggam described Pao as a man who had principles.
Among others, general secretary of central DPYK, Tajong Tasung recalled social contributions by Late Pao. He said that Pao had made huge contribution for development of Pasighat area and won special appreciation from Solung Celebration Committee in 2012.
Editorial
Big task ahead
In an interesting development, Government of India today made startling claim alleging
that Naxals operating in the tribal belt have close links with Maoist organisations
in Philippines and Turkey and get support from several organisations in Europe. This
disclosure was made by Minister of State for Home Haribhai Parathibhai Chaudhary
in a written reply in the Lok Sabha. This is a new revelation made by the present
government. They will have to come up with solid evidence to back their claim in
days to come.
While its too early to make a judgment but one wonder whether this revelation has
been made public to hide failure of union government to solve the vexed Maoist problem.
The present government had promised to find urgent solution to this issue. But situation
remains the same. Naxals operating in the states like Orissa, Chattisgarh and Maharasthra
draws their support from the local people. Years of feeling of injustice at the hand
of successive government has deeply antagonized the tribals. With government now
opening their area to big industrial houses, they fear that their land will be taken
away. Naxals have managed to play with this emotion of tribal. Since Naxal violence
started thousands of people including many from men in uniform have lost their lives.
Successive government has failed to find a lasting solution to deal with it. First
of all government should try to win the confidence of the tribal’s. Once they are
made to feel comfortable, the situation will drastically change. The question is
how does govt. go ahead? They have a big task ahead.
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Readers’ Forum
World Book and Copyright Day
Dear Editor,
April 23, 2016 was a day to celebrate as voracious readers, authors and publishing
fraternity around the globe celebrated "world book and copyright day.
Many would not know that the English word “book” comes from Danish word “bog” which
means birch tree and early people of Denmark wrote on birch bark.
Marcus Tullius Cicero said “A room without books is like a body without a soul.”
But now printed books have given way to ebooks which are ecologically friendly though
not everyone can afford an eBook reader. There are advantages of increasing the font
size and one can also carry many ebooks at a time while travelling.
But despite advantages people who prefer traditional printed books like to touch
and smell the pages. They simply love the sight of their book collection in their
book shelves. Also there is a need to have an inclusive approach by converting many
good titles into audio books and especially Braille.
Yours,
T.S.Karthik
Chennai
Go Green and eco-friendly
Dear Editor,
Kudos to your editorial titled, "Drastic measures is need of the hour" (Arunachal
Times, April 25, 2016) in which you rightly said, "Taking cue from incident like
Tawang and Hotel PYBSS, government should strictly implement the building laws".
Moreover, it should be made mandatory to construct buildings in such a manner that
can absorb the shock of earthquake to a greater extent. The rooftops of these buildings
should be fitted with necessary equipments to produce solar energy.
Solar is a clean and safe energy and in this point it scores over thermal and nuclear
variety. India is blessed with abundant solar grace. So, we need to use this renewable
energy as far as practicable.
All schools, colleges, offices, buildings should be encouraged to use their rooftops
to tap solar energy to generate power to meet their demands.
Government should see to it that these institutions get necessary solar equipments
in Easy Monthly Installments. They can easily pay back the EMI and maintain those
equipments with the savings from electricity bill. Switching over to solar energy
in a phase manner will go a long way to check power cut, power theft, thermal power
plant pollution, nuclear power plant hazards, centralization of power generation,
depletion of fossil fuels, expenditure in electricity and global warming.
It is time to build green, eco-friendly buildings and to make the existing buildings
greener. These eco-friendly buildings will produce green and clean solar energy,
give some space to green trees and have structural plasticity to stomach tremors.
Yours,
Sujit De, Kolkata
The Guru who sold his car
Dear Editor,
Let me start with the letters SSA, which I suppose technically, means Social Service
Abhiyan. As a forerunner of this Abhiyan, I really don’t remember when and how the
backlog of our salary happened.
Coming to the present scenario recently the Government announced the release of Rs.
1009.94 lakhs for the pending 3 months’ salary but according to my calculation the
amount released does not even meet the requirements on one month. It’s my personal
opinion and belief that Chief Minister is so irresponsible and has no respect for
the teaching community whatsoever. His pompous declaration shows his lackadaisical
attitude.
It’s so funny that the Govt. is treating us teachers like contractors. No blame game,
they are used to March ending bills (adjustment bills). But a big But! We’re daily
wage earners like all the other Government servants, we also sign off at the end
of the day on daily attendance registers. This whole gamut is not new to us but this
time it’s different for me. The Guru due to some personal problems had to take some
loans on 3% interest because the Guru is not even entitled to procure loans from
nationalized banks in spite of serving the state and society for the last 13 years.
In expectation of pending salary interest of the loan alone rose to a whopping amount
of Rs. 1 lakh. The Guru had the only option of selling of his car which he had hypothecated
from SBI in his younger sister’s name who is a regular govt. servant.
The question is will the intellectuals, bureaucrats, elites of our society succumb
to the golden words written by a scholar “it’s true that when you do more than you’re
paid to do, you’ll eventually be paid more for what you do”.
After teaching students for so long, I fully realized that no wealth or position
can long endure, unless built upon truth and justice, therefore, I will engage in
no transaction which does not benefit all whom it affects. Let me put it this way
CM. In the new world of business, the riskiest place you can be is trying to do the
same things in the same way as you’ve always done them, few things are as foolish
as hoping old behaviors will show new results.
Lastly, few words for those who are fed up with our complaints… If you have all the
fresh water you want to drink and all the food you want to eat, you ought never to
complain about anything.
Yours,
Abson Tana
Teacher
Govt. Hr. Sec. School
Kimin
Myanmar and North East India
Dear Editor
Myanmar has suffered for several decades post independence in violent ethnic clashes
dividing communities as well as political destabilization; and a severely oppressive
military regime that ruled for decades without any respect for democracy. Any attempts
of economic empowerment of the common people as well as any concern for rampant human
right abuses across this multi-ethnic nation was ruthlessly suppressed by military
rulers through gross abuse of powers; thereby promoting poverty, anarchy, ethnic
and religious riots, civil war, insurgency and cross border terrorism. Myanmar currently
represents a global model for demonstrating a peaceful transfer of power following
a democratic election across the nation and for taking monumental steps in establishing
peace, prosperity and democracy squashing her violent past. This new democratic transition
will need financial support from all democratic and economic powers of the world
in establishing proper administration, infrastructure, healthcare, education, economic
development, environmental protection, women empowerment, child care and rural development.
Myanmar’s journey towards democracy, peace and stability is being supported and heavily
funded by powerful western democracies. Recently, Canada extended a financial package
of CAD$ 44 million to the newly elected democratic government of Myanmar. Similar
financial support to economically empower Myanmar has been also extended by EU member
nations. India too has extended her financial, strategic and diplomatic support for
Myanmar. Such whole hearted support extended by western democracies will certainly
go a long way in economically strengthening Myanmar and open up new opportunities
for foreign investments within Myanmar; and above all facilitate better governance
within the nation.
Why is this important for India? Because India, particularly NE India will indirectly
benefit from this process in this change of political guard in SE Asia. While western
India will benefit because of the sanctions lifted from Iran, the operation of the
Chabahar port of Iran connecting western and northern Indian subcontinent to the
lucrative markets of energy rich Central Asia and the cash rice Middle East.
Similarly, a democratically stable and economically empowered Myanmar signifies
a peaceful and progressive nation with the ability to expand trade and commerce with
adjoining nations particularly with Eastern and NE India. The same applies to the
case of Bangladesh too. Friendly, democratic and mutually cooperative governments
both in Bangladesh and Myanmar mean a lot for both Eastern and NE India. The various
roadways and railway networks currently either under proposal or in development under
the Eastern Economic Corridor pact that also includes Nepal and Bhutan means better
connectivity of a economically neglected but resource rich NE as well as Eastern
India through Bangladesh and Myanmar to the lucrative ASEAN economic platform in
the not so distant future. This holds great promises for economic revival not just
for the NE India and her people; but the entire eastern section of the vast Indian
subcontinent. Furthermore, economically stable neighbors will certainly reduce insurgent
activities and cross-border terrorism in the NE region; and will also curb the flow
of illegal immigration significantly suggesting a better economic future and better
security for NE India.
Yours,
Saikat Kumar Basu
Canada
Not a very brilliant idea
Dear Editor,
The mock drill on natural disaster conducted at Naharlagun lagun Bridge on April
25 was nothing less than a manmade disaster itself. Many are asking the logic behind
the choice of place and timing of the drill. The traffic diversion had created a
massive jam causing huge resentment among the people, that too on Monday, the busiest
day of the week.
One thing positive about the drill, however is revealing of the fact that the car
drivers, irrespective of their position and education level, have no driving sense
and may result into delayed response from the rescue team during such disasters.
Through your esteemed daily, I would like to request the concerned department to
not to come up with another such brilliant idea and create another such manmade disaster
in future.
Yours,
Tai Dora
