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2017

April 22

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Arunachalee child with special needs beaten up in Guwahati, three held

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: A differently abled child hailing from Arunachal Pradesh was assaulted by employees of the Residential Special School run by an organisation called Society for Health & Education Development (SHED) on Tuesday within a few hours of his admission.

The police have arrested three persons and registered FIR against them.

The incident came to light when the 8-year old boy was admitted to a private hospital in Guwahati on Tuesday with serious bruises on his body.

According to The Indian Express report the child was brought to the hospital late Tuesday evening by his mother. On receipt of information, the Circle Officer of Sonapur Circle and Officer in-Charge of the local police station on Wednesday morning picked up three persons for allegedly assaulting the child," Kamrup (Metro) deputy commissioner M Angamuthu said.

A case has been registered in the Sonapur police station with the police arresting its manager Hiranya Saikia, warden Shanti Niketan Singh and cook Kishan Kumar.

"We are probing into the incident and taking stern action against the NGO that runs the children home," Angamuthu said.

The children's home run by an NGO called Society for Health, Education and Development (SHED) apparently called the mother to take the child back since because he is too unruly.

The mother, hailing from Papum Pare who had put up in a hotel in Guwahati, rushed to Sonapur, only to find her son writhing in pain with several bruises visible on his limbs. She immediately picked up her child and took him to a private hospital in the city.

Meanwhile, Utsah, an NGO working for protection of child rights has called for a thorough enquiry in a memorandum to chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal.

Meanwhile, the Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (ASCPCR) wants the school to be closed down "because it lacks both adequate infrastructure as well as professionally qualified and trained personnel."

"The so-called special school is horrible. There is nothing to really call it a special school for differently abled children. It should be immediately shut down because it lacks both adequate infrastructure as well as professionally qualified and trained personnel," Runumi Gogoi, chairperson of the ASCPCR, who visited the 'special school' at Sonapur on the outskirts of Guwahati said on Friday

Gogoi said while she was convinced that the boy was beaten up by "more than one person" in the 'special school' hostel on Monday evening. "I am surprised why the police have not yet arrested the culprits", she said

"The school authorities including the hostel warden and other caretakers denied having beaten the boy. But when I took photographs of all the persons there and sent it to chairperson Arunachal Pradesh Commission for Protection of Children's right, the boy pointed at one person wearing a pink shirt as the one who had beaten him up," Gogoi said.

Anganwadi workers stage unity rally, state govt questions unauthorized absence

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: The traffic of Capital City, Itanagar came to a grinding halt for two hours on Friday as thousands of women under the banner of All Arunachal Pradesh Anganwadi Workers' & Helpers' Union (AAPAW&HU) took out a peace rally as mark of unity, solidarity among all the womenfolk of state.

Anganwadi Workers and Helpers, who had come to attend the first ever state level conference-cum-foundation day of AAPAW&HU being held at Chimpu on Saturday, clad in colorful attires marched from Akashdeep, Ganga and covered many locations including civil secretariat, Bank Tinali, Gandhi Market, C-Sector near Chief Minister's private residence, DDK Colony and eventually finishing at Akashdeep

Speaking to the media persons before the start of the rally, AAPAW&HU president Yasi Nalo Sonam informed that the peace rally was not against anyone or the government but as mark of unity, solidarity, fraternity and sisterhood among the Anganwadi Workers and Helpers.

"We want to send a message of unity and sisterhoods among all women of state through this peace rally," she asserted.

She further informed that around six thousand women from all 21 districts are attending the first ever state level conference-cum-foundation day of AAPAW&HU being held at Chimpu on Saturday.

Interacting with the media persons in the sideline of rally, few Anganwadi Workers and Helpers, on the condition of anonymity, however, expressed deep resentment over the hike of rupees one thousand only. They stated that they were expecting at least hike of rupees five thousand.

"It has become very difficult to run the family with our meager salary. Government should think about our grievances and redress it," said an Anganwadi Worker from Balijan.

Meanwhile, the state government has taken serious view on the unauthorized absence of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers from their respective Anganwadi Centres for attending the three days Conference at Itanagar.

Willful absence must be viewed seriously by the immediate controlling authority and necessary disciplinary action must be initiated against them," said an official release.

The release said that no child development officers has ever informed about mass leave taken by the Angawadi Workers and Helpers except a communication from the President of All Arunachal Pradesh Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Union addressed to the Director (WCD) seeking permission to attend the conference.

In reply of the communication, the Directorate of WCD asked the Union that any request from the Anganwadi Workers must come through the respective Child Development Project Officer, the release said.

"The State Government has decided to provide additional honorarium @ Rs 1,500 per month per head in respect of AWWs and AWHs as State Government's contribution, which amount to 50% increase in the honorarium of AWWs and 100 % in respect of AWHs.

"If there were any grievances, they should have approached the appropriate authority of the department for redressal”.

Pema seeks support of bureaucrats against corruption

Civil service day celebrated across state

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday called upon the state government bureaucrats to change their mind-sets as well as help change the mind-set of the people in the crusade against 'corruption'.

Attending the 11th Civil Service Day celebration at Banquet Hall here this morning, Khandu said the perception of corruption as granted is due to accumulation of misgivings through the years. "Corruption begins at all levels including the people. The fault lies in the mind-set. Everybody takes for granted everybody is corrupt. We have to change this mind-set if we want to deliver corruption free governance," he pointed.

With the change in mind-set will come a genuine work atmosphere, Khandu said and underscored the importance of a working atmosphere that will lead to work culture and proper service delivery.

"To improve service delivery to the people, the state government has enacted the Public Service Delivery Act 2015. I call upon the concerned departments to complete all formalities as soon as possible for the act to be notified and implemented," he said.

Specifically speaking to local civil servants, the Chief Minister reiterated that as indigenous citizens they have more responsibility towards governance.

He called upon them to utilize their long experience in service and help and guide the government in forming long term policies for welfare of the people and development of the state.

Khandu dwelt in detail about the benefits of paperless office, which he has been stressing from day one. "Corruption has an uncanny knack of making entry through files and notes. Once we go paperless everything will be in place and there would remain no scope for corruption in passage of files as everything will be in digital format," he asserted. Khandu appealed all the departments to coordinate with the department of Information Technology, which is implementing the e-office project of the government.

Citing another hindrance on efficient service delivery, the Chief Minister observed that many rules and regulations framed and implemented years ago - some even before Independence - have more or less become irrelevant in today's context. These rules, he pointed, framed to benefit people have today actually become major hindrances in service delivery.

"Such rules, if any, that are bottlenecks in smooth functioning of office need to be intimated and done away with as per law," Khandu said.

He encouraged the civil servants to take risks and go for innovative approaches and methods to make governance easily accessible.

"The biggest risk is not to take risks! If we really want to outgrow others we need to take risks and adopt new approaches," Khandu observed.

He also added that in a government civil servants are the most powerful but with this power comes great responsibilities with more accountability and assured full support to honest and sincere officers.

To commemorate the day, the first ever CM's Award for Excellence in Public Administration was announced. In the individual categories Ashish Kundra, Commissioner Finance; for bringing in innovative reforms, and Habung Lampung, CMEO, Itanagar Municipal Council; for the cleanliness drive, were bestowed with the award. Department of Information Technology was chosen for the award in the team/organization category for its efforts in digitalization of governance in the state.

Special Guest on the occasion Social Activist and former Chairperson of the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) Jarjum Ete spoke on gender issues besides the Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary and the PCCF.

Power-point presentations were made by Water Resources department on Pradhan Mantri KrishiSinchayeeYojna (PMKSY), IT department on civil services and e-governance and by General Administration on the Chief Minister's Award for Excellence in Public Administration.

At Yingkiong, the Civil Service Day was observed by the administrative officers and ministerial staffs at DC's Conference Hall here on Friday. Addressing the officers and staff on the occasion, Upper Siang Deputy Commissioner, Remo Kamki urged the officers and ministerial staffs to pledge and rededicate themselves in the line of duty for the welfare of the people and for a corruption free India.

PD, H Basar and SDO, Adong Pertin as resource persons spoke on identifying human capital and its related challenges in respect of civil servants and leveraging technology to improve processes respectively.

At Anini, the day was also observed by the administrative officers at the office of the Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner. Various issues pertaining to the district especially, for the interest of civil servants in the district such as timely sitting of DPC, induction training to the newly inducted officers and organizing refresher courses from time to time were discussed. The officers also expressed the need for sufficient vehicles in the district which are necessary while visiting the remote corners of their circle and district.

At Roing- On the occasion of Civil Services day celebration, commendable certificates and prizes were distributed to the staffs of DC office here at Anchal Samati Hall. The programme was attended by administrative officers, branch officers and staffs of DC office Roing.

Speaking on the occasion, DC in-charge Chestha Yadav called upon the participants to introspect and dedicate themselves towards their entrusted jobs. She also exhorted them to deliver services to the citizen with impartiality. She also informed that a Facebook page has been launched to disseminate information related to developmental activities of the district especially for the youth population of the district. She also informed that complaint box will be kept at DC office to allow people to place their grievances.

Principal KV Roing, V Kumar who was resource person of the event briefed on creating values through human capital management. He also gave detail about team works and information sharing for maximizing potentiality and efficiency in works.

At Pasighat, along with the rest of the State, the 11th Civil Service Day was also observed here on Friday. The day was centrally observed at the DC's conference hall-2 and all the admin officers of DC office attended the program.

Addressing the officers, Deputy Commissioner East Siang TamiyoTatak urged the civil servants to rededicate themselves to the cause of citizens and renew their commitment to public service. They must follow the rules and regulations and also adopt modern technologies to deliver prompt services for the welfare of the people and also to fulfill the dreams and vision of Prime Minister for corruption free India, added Tatak.

At Tezu, 11th Civil Services Day was celebrated in a befitting manner here at DC's conference hall. Addressing the gathering, SDO (S) Goutam Hazarika exhorted everyone to work for the common public good and not to divert from the laid down norms. He said that the celebration was a morale boost to civil service officers. He specially urged the young officers to overcome political and external hindrances to avoid compromises with quality of work.

EAC Priscilla Tayeng said that regular training was a must to ensure availability of skilled manpower. She particularly batted for induction training for newly recruited officers and also refresher training for the experienced ones. She said that such trainings play a vital role in helping departments focus on "productive activities".

While appreciating the government's concerted efforts to promote digitization, Senior Advocate VK Dubey said that one must also be aware of its downsides. Citing the rising cases of cyber thefts, he said in such cases, both the bank and digital payment channel parties are reluctant to take responsibilities for the customer's loss.

Numbers of important resolutions were adopted to address the pertinent issues confronting civil service officers in the state. In a unanimous decision, a resolution was passed to form Lohit Civil Service Officers' Association (LCSOA) to address the issues faced by APCS officers.

At Yupia, attending the Civil Service Day celebration, Sagalee Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Jalash Pertin has called upon the young Govt officers to re-dedicate themselves for the cause of the people saying that administrative job is a very challenging and one should have proper knowledge on duty and responsibility. The ADC also gave a presentation on "The Evolution of Civil Services in Arunachal Pradesh" and "The Role of Executive Magistrate."

Doimukh Govt College Associate Professor, A K Bhanja gave a presentation on "Good governance and the role of civil services in India, while"€™eDPM Tako Rhiniam also a gave presentation on"e- Governance."

Earlier, EAC (Hq) Kapter Ringu briefed the objective of the Civil Services Day. A avenue plantation was also conducted by civil service officers at DC office premises to mark the occasion. Heads of departments, PD DRDA, EACs and Cos attended the programme. (DIPROs)

Serious PMGSY anomalies alleged

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: A group of project affected people led by Zilla Parishad Member 6- Chetam Anchal Block of Upper Subansiri district on Friday alleged serious anomalies and favouritism by the top officials of Rural Works Department (RWD) Daporijo on 33 kilometers PMGSY project connecting Siga to Dayam.

Armed with compendium of documents, which it claimed is enough for authority to act against the corrupt officers, Tapa Dadi, President BJP district unit claimed that RWD authority had awarded the project to M/S Kenge Constructions & Company overlooking the fake credentials certificates produced by the firm.

"The credential certificates or work completion certificate produced by firm (M/S Kenge Construction Company) are fake and forged one" alleged Dadi.

In a representation submitted to Chief Secretary, he further claimed that Chairman of Tender Committee T K Tagin who is also Superintendent Engineer (Coordination) himself had verified the documents. But work order was given despite Assam Chief Engineer's confirmation of fake certificates produced by the firm in the bidding.

Dadi added that DRDA Kurung Kumey also confirmed and verified another Credential Certificate used by M/S Kenge Construction Company as fake and forged one.

"Though the matter of fake documents was brought to the knowledge of top RWD officials, the officers overlooked it and awarded contract in favour of M/S Kenge Construction and Company" it claimed.

Questioning the role of Chief Executive Officer of RWD and SE Coordination, ZPM Tapo Mosi who also participated in the bidding alleged that these officers were involved in manipulation.

ZPM also alleged that AE RWD Daporijo had given false and misleading report claiming that machinery and heavy tools and plant had been deployed at site, whereas the Circle Officer Incharge of Chetam had contradicted it as CO incharge claimed the RWD officials had not yet visited Siga(Lechin). CO In charge also said that the question of obstructing the department from carrying out the duties doesn't arise, since no work has started yet.

ZPM further demanded removal of CEO RWD, SE Coordination, EE RWD Daporijo and AE RWD Daporijo for alleged involvement in irregularities and favoritism.

Mosi alleged that Itanagar Police were also reluctant to register a case when it was brought before them.

He informed that several representations were submitted to RWD department for re-evaluation, however it didn't pay heed. The aggrieved group also submitted a representation to Chief Minister and Home Minister to take strong action against erring officers.

Rival bidder M/S Zee Engineering and Construction had filed a petition in the High Court over the issue. The High Court is expected to hear the petition on April 25 next.

The Chief Executive Officer of RWD and SE Coordination, EE RWD, AE RWD Daporijo could not be contacted for their comments.

Meanwhile, M/s Kange Construction Company Proprietor Haa Tatu claimed that all allegations leveled by ZPM and rival bidders are untrue. He further claimed that work has started on full swing. He also alleged that rival bidder is trying to obstruct the ongoing works by engaging in dubious means.

Students take out protest rally against Chinese claim

PASIGHAT, Apr 21: Members of All Bogong Students Union (Elected) along with hundreds of people from Pasighat took out a peaceful protest rally against the Chinese claim on Arunachal Pradesh. The rally from Main Bazar Gandhi Chowk culminated at the DC's office this morning. ABSU President Lungkang Ering submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner TamiyoTatak in his office chamber.

In his statement, Ering stated that China has "standardized" the names of six places in Arunachal Pradesh which is not acceptable. Standardizing the name of places carries no meaning as Arunachal is not a disputed territory but an integral part of India , he said. Our state was never under Chinese administration and we have nothing to do with Chinese authorities. We are purely Indians and we will die to save our mother land, added Ering giving a clear message.

DC Tatak forwarded the memorandum to the state authority for further necessary action. DIPRO

GAF seeks President’s intervention on airport, boundary dispute with China

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: Green Arunachal Foundation (GAF) has sought the President's intervention in construction of the Greenfield Airport, solution to the vexed Assam-Arunachal boundary disputes and staple visa issue with China.

GAF team led by Takam Tatung and RN Lalum met the president Pranab Mukherjee in New Delhi on Friday.

Stating that the proposed Greenfield Airport in the state Capital remains a dream unfulfilled for many years even after several rounds of discussions between the decision making authorities and the stakeholders , the GAF appealed to the President to intervene into the matter so that the airport can be constructed without any further delay.

"At a time when the central government has announced to provide air connectivity to all the state capitals, the state of Arunachal Pradesh, which shares a long international border with China, is still deprived from an airport, rued the GAF.

The Forum also appealed to the President to solve the staple visa issued to the people of Arunachal Pradesh by China, when they visit that country.

"It is high time the New Delhi ponders upon this vexed issue and hold international level talks with the Chinese Government to sort out the issue at the earliest," the memorandum said.

The Forum also drew the attention of the President towards vexed boundary dispute between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.

Stating that the boundary dispute between the two neighbouring states remains unresolved over the last 65 years despite numerous talks, negotiations and legal battles, the Forum sought the President's direct intervention to resolve the issue amicably.

The Forum also explained the need for raising a security force called "Arunachal Pradesh Regiment' in the back drop of China's repeated claim over Arunachal Pradesh.

The force should be comprised of local youths, who are more familiar to the topography of the region and adjustable to its inclement climatic condition, the Forum said and pleaded the President to seriously ponder upon the issue.

Arunachal Pradesh an integral part of India: Sanjoy

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee President, Takam Sanjoy has said that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of the Indian Union.

In a press statement on Friday, Sanjoy asserted that the entire indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh have since British India integrated into the Indian mainstream. Some of ethnic tribe leaders even participated during the freedom struggle of Indian Independence. Therefore, Arunachal being disputed as claimed by the Chinese government is absolutely absurd, Sanjoy said.

With regards to the visit of His Holiness Dalai Lama, Sanjoy said that the visit of the religious leader of the exile government is not an issue which was impulsively opposed by the Chinese government. India is the first home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and his exiled government, he said.

Sanjoy further came down heavily on Chief Minister, Pema Khandu for his statement that 'Arunachal borders Tibet and not China' and termed it as immature and uncalled for since the exile government accepts the One China Policy as of today. Asserting that the political status of Tibet as of today is Tibet autonomous region of Peoples Republic of China, Sanjoy said that the CM of a sensitive state like Arunachal Pradesh should not make statement after going through the entire gamut of political status and history of Tibet as recognized by the Indian government.

Ban on red beacon major paradigm shift in the mindset: BJP

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: BJP Arunachal Pradesh while welcoming the decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ban red beacon from government vehicles said that the great symbolic move on the part of NDA Government reflects the major paradigm shift in the mindset and values of the political leaders who are in power now. This is will end the symbolic divide in between the common people and the so called VIPs, said a party release.

Terming this decision as a huge departure from elitist culture of earlier times, State BJP President Tapir Gao opined that this shows the sincere intention of Modi to bring in egalitarian values and practices in the country.

This will bring about major psychological shift in how the common people will view public office holders from now on. Gao also expressed that the wind of change is now blowing across the political landscape of the country. The elitist and exclusivist VIP culture of earlier time is a thing of past now. From now on it will be service oriented culture where Ministers, MLAs and Government Officials have to essentially view themselves as servant of the people.

BJP Arunachal Pradesh appreciated the proactive action of Chief Minister Pema Khandu for swiftly removing the red beacon lights from all his official vehicles as soon as the decision was taken in the Union Cabinet. He is one of the first Chief Ministers to do so and his example is worth emulating. This move of the Chief Minister conveys a strong message of his government being a people oriented government that does not believe in elitist values and culture, said BJP Media Secretary Nalong Mize.

NIFAA rally for national integration and communal harmony

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Apr 21 : A car rally was flagged off today from Dera Natung Government college campus here to create awareness on national integration and communal harmony organised by National Integrated Forum of Artist and Activists (NIFAA)

A programme was held to mark the flag off where various eminent personalities addressed the gathering.

Former Tali MLA Takam Sorang while expressing his views on racial discrimination, appealed for equal treatment of people belonging to NE region in all parts of country.

NIFAA state Unit President Sangha Tajik stressed the need of more such rallies in different parts of state and region which will strengthen the relationship among all. Tajik also appealed the students and youths to use their precious time in studies and devote themselves in the development of state and preservation of culture and tradition for tribal identity.

NIFFA President Pritpal Singh Panni in his address said that there should not be any barriers as all Indians are the same.

The unity and integrity is our motto which need to be strengthened and we have been carrying forward this message all over the country.

So far, NIFFA has toured almost all the north Indian states right from Haryana, Punjab, J & K, Himachal Pradesh, New Delhi, Utter Pradesh, Uttarkhand, West Bengal, Bihar, Sikkim, Assam and reached to Arunachal Pradesh yesterday. They will travel to Dimapur, Kohima, Imphal, Aizwal, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, and other southern states before reaching Karnal in Haryana where the state is celebrating its golden jubilee from October 21 to 31. The rally will cover all the twenty nine states.

All India National Youth Awardees Federation Chairman Hitender Samani also addressed the gathering and thanked the youths of the state for supporting their cause in maintaining national integration. He said that there are twenty nine participants who belongs to different states and working for unity in diversity.

HC directs eviction of illegal structures near IG park

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: While disposing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by one Samir Kipa against the State Government and six others appealing for eviction/dismantling of illegal construction in the premises of the cafeteria at Indira Gandhi Park, Itanagar, the Itanagar Permanent Bench of Gauhati High Court (HC) has directed the Chief Estate Officer-Additional District Magistrate, Itanagar Capital Complex, Itanagar, to carry out the eviction/dismantling in accordance with his own order issued in 2015.

Having heard the counsels for both the parties, the court of R.K Phukan observed that since there is already an order of eviction issued against the respondent by the competent authority, further initiation of any proceeding by the Court is not warranted at this stage.

In his PIL, the petitioner stated that one Dr. Biman Natung, who is running the cafeteria at Indira Gandhi Park, has illegally raised a construction near IG Park without permission from any concern authority.

The Chief Estate Officer, Itanagar Capital Complex, Itanagar following complaints from Director, Tourism, Government of Arunachai Pradesh had earlier issued an order directing the respondent to vacate/remove the illegal structures in question within 15 days from the date of order, failing which eviction process was to be carried-out without any further notice. But, the Chief Estate Officer, Itanagar has not yet carried out the eviction process, the court observed.

Mein emphasizes on equal distribution of development fund

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein emphasized on equal distribution of developmental fund to all the districts and constituencies so that fruits of development reach all the regions and sections of the society. Mein was addressing a preliminary meeting on State Annual Development Agenda(SADA) of the PWD here on Friday.

He also called for judicious use of fund and to create visible infrastructures instead of piecemeal allocation of fund to individual schemes. The schemes should be prepared within the budget allocation, Mein said while cautioning against overlapping or duplication of schemes.

While giving his nod for continuation of the CC pavement roads in the remaining and uncovered districts, the DCM emphasized on allocation of need-based fund. He also directed to keep an inventory of old bridges for further necessary action.

Speaking on the SADA, previously known as Annual Operating Plan (AOP), Mein said that from this year onwards the execution of works will not have to wait for the State Development Council (SDC) meeting, works will start soon after the finalization of SADA. He informed that the Finance Department has already given directives to all the departments to prepare SADA/AOP on or before May 10.

Parliamentary Secretary for PWD, Techi Kaso called for sufficient fund provision for construction of CC pavements in remaining sector roads, bridges and drainage system in the capital. If good works are started from the capital, it will surely spread to the districts too, he said. He also discouraged sanctioning of individual schemes and advocated for schemes which benefit the common masses.

Stressing on the construction of septic tanks in sectors in the state capital, Kaso said many schemes under Urban Development has been delinked and there is no provision for schemes under BADP and PMGSY in the capital.

In his address, K Waghe, CE (Western Zone) requested to provide sufficient time for survey and investigation for designing and planning of bridges for construction of long lasting bridges.

Among others, Chief Engineer (Central Zone A), Hage Appa and Assistant Engineer (Design & Planning), Tumken Ete also attended the meeting.

Green gold - omnipresent yet hidden in plain sight!

[ Siyang Borang ]

Unlike other forms of wealth, the treasure of plant genetic resources often fails to be revered by the general masses. We the Arunachalees are the proud owner of 2nd highest forest cover in India and obviously 1st in the North eastern region, but, have we ever considered ourselves rich in that context? Most of us would say, if not cent percent, a big no.

It's the treasure present within them called the genes. Scientifically, genes are nothing but some protein, however, they are the answer to our future ailments. Every place possesses their unique plant genetic resources besides common floras. This vegetation gives the local communities some economic advantages if properly channelized and marketed. The prominent example of geographical indicator in our neighbourhood is the Darjeeling Tea. And just like declaring ownership to land resource, ownership of a plant species is also legally declared by the provision under Protection of Plant varieties and Farmers' Rights Act 2001 and other Acts which gives the breeders or the local farming community, the legal right to reap economic benefits via its commercial production.

A hidden problem called biopiracy arises when there is commercial exploitation of a genetic material without the consent of or compensation to the indigenous people from where the genetic material or the knowledge was obtained. In world context, a prominent example of bio-piracy is the case of an American company RiceTec Inc. which in late 1997 succeeded in patenting the aromatic rice Basmati without prior consent from India and was marketing the same rice in brand names like Kasmati and Texmati. There, such cases of bio-piracy comes into notice due to the vigilant and well aware locals but if such tragedy occurs here or who knows might already be occurring in our Arunachal context, no one would care or even be aware of it till it's too late. Therefore, being proud owners of such huge plant genetic resources, it naturally becomes a prime duty of every indigenous Arunachalee to take good care of our Green Gold and be very careful of any event of unauthorised access to our reservoir of Green Gold by prospective bio-pirates which may come in any form and anytime. Also, there are many cases of bio-piracy around the globe where most of them followed a common modus operandi where the bio-pirate simply take a handful of targeted soil or break a small part of the desired plant inside their pocket and simply leave with a mischievous grin. And after mass multiplication in-vitro, the bio-pirate may patent it successfully and yield economic benefits out of it without knowledge of the poor indigenous community which otherwise could have been compensated well. (The contributor is a Scientist, Pomology, State Horticulture Research & Development Institute)

East Siang ZPMs complete first-phase exposure tour

Correspondent

PASIGHAT, Apr 21: The Zilla Parishad Members (ZPM) of East Siang district, who embarked on an inter-district exposure tour, winded up their tour.

The team toured entire eastern Arunachal districts and two western districts-- West Kameng and Tawang in the first phase of the tour.

The ZPMs visited different rural areas and realized the developmental scenario. They also held interaction with district administration and PRI leaders on various developmental issues and gathered information on role of PRIs in public sectors such as rural development, education, health and sanitation, women and child development besides conservation of natural resources etc.

The team led by East Siang ZPC Kaling Dai reached at different pockets of Lower Dibang Valley, Namsai, Lohit, Anjaw, Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts of eastern part.

The team later reached in Bomdila in West Kameng on April 17 and met the PRI leaders at Saidal village under Nafra circle. They they proceeded further to Tawang the next day and held meeting with the ZPMs, the administrative officials and public leaders.

"Many eminent citizens of the State have advocated formation of an NGO with the like-minded people of the state and take up the State's problems. We have gathered many feedbacks on State's developmental agenda and role of the leaders in successful implementation of the schemes. We are all set to reschedule the date for next phase tour", informed ZPC Kaling Dai.

The first phase tour was flagged off by local MLA Kaling Moyong at Pasighast on April 6.

Siang DC sticks to biometric attendance report for teachers' salary

PANGIN, Apr 21: Siang district Deputy Commissioner Rahul Singh has directed all the Principals and Headmasters of the district to prepare a monthly Biometric attendance report of the teachers saying that salary will be disbursed as per the report.

While reviewing the proper functioning and utilization of Biometric Machines in all the schools in a meeting with the all the Principals, Headmasters and other representatives of the Government Higher Secondary and Senior Secondary Schools and DDSE Odhuk Tabing here on Friday, the DC urged the teaching fraternity to maintain punctuality and work culture for quality education to the students. He cautioned that Biometric Machines which have been procured through government fund should not go waste.

Emphasizing on the need for timely submission and updation of the online MIS System, the DC directed all concerned to personally monitor and supervise this task. "It is on the basis of the data funds for developmental activities are earmarked to education department," he said.

Taking note of numerous problems of the schools especially the lack of toilets, drinking water and water connection facilities which were raised in the meeting, the DC assured to extend all necessary support from district administration.

A demonstration on the operation, usage and maintenance of biometric machines was also conducted. DIPRO

Simai inaugurates series of new infrastructures project

Nampong, Apr 21: MLA Laisam Simai inaugurated series of new infrastructures project here on Friday. Simai along with Jairampur ADC SS Choudhory and SDO Nampong K Tikhak inaugurated new SDO office, shopping complex and border trade office cum guest house at Nampong.

Simai in a public meeting held after the conclusion of the inauguration expressed hope that newly inaugurated infrastructures will assist in progress of the region. He also anticipated it to improve the regional economy in a massive way. Besides asking the public to protect the infrastructure from any sort of vandalism, he also appealed them to participate in the progress it promises to bring in the region.

The historic inauguration was witnessed by local public, HoDs and panchayat leaders of 51st Nampong Assembly Constituency.

Over 100 benefit from medical camp at Khasa village

LONGDING, Apr 21: In all, 105 persons were treated and given medicines free of cost during a medical camp organized by the Khonsa Battalion of Assam Rifles under the aegis of DAO Division with the help of civil administration at Khasa Village under Longding district on Wednesday last.

During the camp which was conducted under the supervision of medical officer and paramedical staff of Assam Rifles, the villagers were informed about HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, malaria, water-borne diseases besides, hygiene and sanitation.

The villagers lauded the Assam Rifles for organizing the camp at remote areas and called for conducting more such camps for people residing in remote areas in future.

SBI Yingkiong closed

YINGKIONG, Apr 21: The State Bank of India Yingkiong branch remained closed on Friday due to non-availability of cash. The bank authority has put up a notice in the bank citing that all cash transaction has been halted till further notice due to unavailability of cash from RBI. (DIPRO)

PPA seeks rectification of Statehood Act 1987

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: The People's Party of Arunachal (PPA) MLA, Takam Pario has urged the ruling government to expedite every possible way to rectify the defective Statehood Act 1987.

He was speaking during a PPA legislators meeting which was held at the party office on Tuesday last.

While addressing the party executive members, PPA president, Kahfa Bengia said that the party being the constituent part of NEDA will work hand in hand with the government in its endeavour towards a people friendly government in the state.

The PPA has further appealed to the Pema Khandu led-BJP government in the state to review the decision to convert the Chief Minister's official bungalow into state guest house.

Arunachal Tourism bags emerging destination award

New Delhi, April 21: Arunachal Pradesh Tourism bagged the India Today Award 2017, organized by India Today Group for "Best Emerging Destination in India" at an event held in New Delhi on April 20.

Parliamentary secretary Tourism, P.D. Sona who received the award on behalf of Arunachal Pradesh Tourism said that Arunachal Pradesh has the potential to cater almost all kinds of Tourism from heritage, culture, adventure to pilgrimage.

Union Minister of State for Tourism Dr Mahesh Sharma appreciated Arunachal Pradesh Tourism for its efforts to promote Arunachal Tourism in global arena.

While lauding the efforts of the India Today India Group in recognizing and acknowledging the leaders of the travel and tourism industry, he said that "We must strive to make India an all-season destination".

Four arrested in bike lifting case

NAHARLAGUN, April 21: Four youngsters were arrested for their involvement in stealing two wheelers from Naharlagun and Tarajuli area. All of them were produced before JMFC, Yupia and remanded to police custody for further interrogation.

Talking to this daily, Naharlagun SDPO Make Bui said that on direction of SP Capital Tumme Amo, a dragnet was prepared to arrest the lifters.

Naharlagun Police under SI Balkar Singh have been able to arrest one Tolum Lamgu and three others yesterday evening.

SDPO said that most of the youngsters are students.

So far three bikes have been recovered from them.

AYA appeals for revival of High Altitude Fish Farm

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: Apatani Youth Association (AYA) in a release informed that it has submitted memorandum to Fisheries Minister Wangki Lowang to revive the High Altitude Fish Farm, Tarin.

According to AYA, the fish farm, which was developed in 1976 with fund from NEC, is lying in a very pathetic condition.

AYA informed that the minister has assured to do the needful for revival of the farm.

Youths on tourism study tour

Correspondent

RUKSIN, Apr 21: Eight youths from Bilat area of East Siang district left for Mumbai on a tourism study tour on Thursday evening.

The team led by Ellison Siram will visit various tourist spots in and around the metropolitan city during its week-long tour programme.

They would also meet few Bollywood film producers and approach them to make film on Arunachal Prdesh and its tribes. Siram told that they will invite veteran Bollywood filmstar Danny Denzongpa to visit Arunachal Pradesh.

Siram, earlier, led an exposure tour team and visited many eco-tourism destinations in Assam and Meghalaya. They met NGO and SHG members and other experts and gained practical knowledge on eco-tourism development.

Best citizen of India award-2017 to Dr. Kadu

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: Dr. Kento Kadu, Assistant Professor, Jawaharlal Nehru College Pasighat has been conferred with the "BEST CITIZEN OF INDIA AWARD 2017" by The International Publishing House, New Delhi in recognition of his outstanding research achievement in the field of Ichthyo-taxonomy and biodiversity conservation.

The award comprises a plaque, citation and specially dedicating on a page of the volume "The Honoured Best Citizen of India" being brought out by the International Publishing House, New Delhi.

Dr. Kadu is a gold medallist in B.sc (Zoology) 2002 batch and first class in M.Sc. Zoology 2004 under Arunachal University.

He did his Ph.D from Rajiv Gandhi University, Itanagar in the year 2012. He has published many research papers in various national and international journals and also presented many research papers in national and international seminar.

Apart from his teaching profession he has been always associated with the social groups, NGOs, and governmental organisation, which directly or indirectly involved in education of poor tribal and conservation of biodiversity.

APLA organizes library tour for students

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: Around 50 students from various schools were taken to State Central Library and Rajiv Gandhi University on Friday on a free library tour conducted by Arunachal Pradesh Library Association (APLA).

The main objective of the tour was to inculcate reading habit among students.

Addressing the students and various library professionals, Director of Public Library Jotton Borang appreciated the initiative of APLA.

District Library Officer Lingam Ete highlighted the functions and services of the State Central Library, Itanagar.

General Secretary of APLA Lobom Lida Tamin, also highlighted the importance of book reading and urged the students to develop reading habit.

Bhaskar Saikia, Library Assistant, explained the students about modern tools and techniques that are used in the central Library, RGU.

Dr. Lego emphasizes on family planning

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: Director of Family Welfare Director Dr. M Lego underscored the importance adopting family planning by all able couples to reduce birth rate.

Addressing the DMOs, DRCHOs and Gynecologists in a state level orientation and sensitization workshop on family planning indemnity and review meeting at Naharlagun on Friday, Dr. Lego said that sterilization has been the most widely used methods for birth control and called for providing quality sterilization services.

The Government of India has introduced the national family planning Insurance Scheme in 2005 which has been modified into family planning indemnity scheme with effect from April 1, 2013 to enhance the credibility of programme, Dr. Lego said.

Gynecologist (TRIMS) Dr. Goter Doke informed about various new methods of contraception.

Deputy Director Family Welfare Dr. Amping Perme emphasized on coordination among DMOs, DRCHOs and Gynecologists in the districts.

Women trained on skill development

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: The 40-day skill training, imparted by Arunachal National Youth Project at Chandra Nagar, is a step towards empowering women to help them join the nation building process, said NEDFi state branch manager Alen Nabam.

Addressing 40 women trainees who completed the training on handloom at NYP office here today, Nabam lauded the impressive products made in such short tenure and exhorted them to use the skill in most productive way and market the products to earn decent livelihood.

This training was sponsored though NE Society for Handicraft Incubation & Livelihood Promotion under corporate social responsibility, he said and assured more training.

State's unique handloom & handicraft products lack marketing facility even in Delhi, NEDFi mentor S K Yadav said and urged NYP to help in marketing to benefit them.

NYP vice president Pradeep Kumar, pointed out that the NYP, empanelled by many union ministries, departments and CPSUs, has so far skilled 73,833 locals in 23 trades and 4,250 people with special ability through Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Hearing Disability.

Army recruitment rally in Rupa

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: A five- day Army recruitment rally for the youngsters of Arunachal who want to join the Indian Army has started in Rupa, West Kameng from April 20. The recruitment is being done for the trades of Soldier-GD, Soldier-Clerk SD, Soldier Technical, Soldier Tradesman, Soldier-TDN(Disp) 8th Cl. and Soldier -Nursing Assistant. Hundreds of candidates have turned up for the recruitment drive in the first two days and the fittest among them have qualified in the initial qualifying round, said Sub Divisional Officer T.R. Tapu.

The final selection will be done after the written test which will be conducted at Jorhat in the later part of this month. Recruiting Officers from the Army Recruitment Office, Jorhat under the overall incharge of Col. R.K. Singh with his team is conducting the recruitment rally.

Protest rallies to seek justice for late Pul

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: The Mere Vichaar Andolan Committee (MVAC), while reiterating its three points demands, has proposed to organize peaceful protest rallies across the state to seek justice for former chief minister late Kalikho Pul.

The rally in Aalo, West Siang will be organized on April 25 from 10 am, said the Committee in its intimation letter to the Deputy Commissioner.

MVAC has been demanding CBI probe into the Pul's death case based on FIR lodged by his three wives, stepping down of the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister and Parliamentary Secretary and Govt. Spokesperson PD Sona on moral ground.

'Create posts of health assistant'

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: Claiming that over 300 health assistants trained at GoAP recognized Health Training Research Center, Pasighat are currently unemployed in state, the All Unemployed Health Assistant Association (AAUHAA) has in a memorandum to the Health & Family Welfare Minister on Tuesday last, sought early creation of health assistant posts in various districts of the state.

'The trained health assistants have been demanding creation of the said posts but no steps have been initiated in this regard so far', the Association said.

Bangtey Fatey Nikam Lungtey festival celebrated

ITANAGAR, Apr 21: Bangtey Fatey Nikam Lungtey festival was celebrated at Chebang Village under Phassang circle, Kurung Kumey on Apr 15 last with traditional gaiety. The celebration was attended by Chairman Rubber Plantation GoAP-cum-State BJP unit Vice President Tame Phassang, Kra Daadi DPO-cum-DSO, Tadar Tagh and West Kameng DFDO, Kipa Taja among others.

---- Editorial ----

Everyone should cooperate

The public hearing for much awaited Itanagar-Banderdewa 4 lane highway project started on Thursday. Many structures which come under Right Of Way (ROW) will have to be removed to pave way for construction work to start. State government as well as Ministry of Road, Transport and Highway have already made it clear that not a single penny will be paid to those building which falls under ROW. While majority of capital denizens support the highway project, few especially the people whose building falls under ROW is creating unnecessary trouble.

But it is also heartening to know that prominent public figures like former MLA Kipa Babu voluntarily came out asking capital administration to start eviction process by first dismantling his building structure. If leaders show the way, others will definitely follow the lead. Every citizens of capital should voluntarily dismantle the building that falls under ROW as it will make things easier for the administration. Itanagar-Banderdewa 4 lane highway is a dream project of every Arunachalees. The pathetic condition of capital road is matter of deep embarrassment for the denizens. After waiting for so many years, government of India has finally agreed to fund the said project. Now it is duty of every citizens of capital to wholeheartedly extend support to capital administration so that work for 4 lane highway starts at the earliest. Just cribbing about bad road and traffic jam will not solve the problem. Citizens can play their part by extending cooperation towards construction of Itanagar-Banderdewa 4 lane highway.

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---- Readers Forum ----

Sacred thread of VIPs

Dear Editor,

This is in response to your editorial, "More need to be done to abolish VIP culture" (April 21). The Union Cabinet's decision to remove red beacons from the vehicles of all functionaries of the Centre and the States, other than emergency vehicles, is welcome. After Delhi and Punjab, the whole India is to discard the culture of public showing of sacred thread of VIPs. But this should not just be limited to symbolism. While VIPs still enjoy free housing, electricity, phones, travel and medical treatment; people in general have been kept as far away from the ambit of welfare as that of 131st position in Human Development Index. It is time to discard such VIP centric welfare. The departure of red beacon culture needs to usher in a paradigm shift in focus to orient India's economic development only for human development of our people.

Yours,

Sujit De, Kolkata

Alcoholism derailed countless households

Dear Editor,

When highway drivers shake it could lead to serious accidents. But, if the head of a household shakes the whole family could be derailed. Usually, this “shaking” happens when one drinks a few “extra pegs”. These extra pegs, which are irresistible to many, might gradually bind both feet and mind. That means, he can’t steadily walk further on the road to progress, and he is more likely to become a slave to the drink. Obsessed with the thought of the drink might result in that state of mind that the boozer’s wheels of creativity and innovation go downhill.

True, the root causes of the highway’s fatalities have finally been identified, though after too long. And, the situation has now forced the honorable Supreme Court to order for the ban on the liquor selling near the roadsides. Indeed, a much awaited welcome move.

But who will notice the derailment of lakhs and lakhs of families due to “excessive” drinking by their breadwinners? In the society, we have noticed innumerable households shattered due to alcoholic fathers/husbands. Whether one agrees or not, the consumption of the alcohol is directly proportional to its availability. Now, with the relaxation of the “distance” in the urban areas, the wine stores, which were shut until a few weeks ago, have again begun to strut their stuff. People are seen thronging the local liquor shops, now they need not walk too far to fetch their bottles of wine. No wonder, if one who is thoughtfully heading towards a temple or church or masjid to offer their prayers might get tempted to walk into the restaurant/wine shops located within a few meters. Please note, the temptation never takes refuge in penance.

Many schools and colleges children have learnt much about the drinking fun through Youtub. Though discreetly, they are already into the drinking habit. Of course, it is the environment that impacts one attitudes, behaviors and conduct. We can’t expect our youths to be sober when the government adore our cityscape with liquor shops and restaurants. Is it not disgusting that the government itself is contributing to increase the temptation of the public to have more booze, more easily so the society will fast totter into the pit of decadence?

Yours,

Salil Gewali

Shillong

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---Editor