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August 26

Ering calls on Union Min. for Smart City mission

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: Lok Sabha MP Ninong Ering today called on Union Urban Development Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu at New Delhi and requested for approval of the Smart City at Pasighat at the earliest. The MP also mentioned that Pasighat has already been recommended by the state Govt for consideration under Smart City mission.

The MP further informed that the Union Minister has assured him for the approval for early implementation of Smart City mission in Arunachal Pradesh.

 

Union demand grants

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: The All Arunachal Pradesh Workers’ Union (AAPWU) Western Zone has requested for granting financial entitlements of the grade’s staff of the state government employees.

In its letter submitted to the chief secretary, it warned of resorting to democratic movement if the demand is not fulfilled.

 

MEO clarifies

PASIGHAT, Aug 25: Municipal Executive Officer (MEO) Deepak Shinde clarified that the responsibility of road maintenance has not yet been entrusted to the civic bodies by the government.

He said that as a part of the massive source reduction exercise of mosquito breeding sites, 29 sanitary staffs were pressed into service by the PMC to clear water logging and filling up low-lying areas with soil and sands. DIPRO

 

8 ticket counters sealed at Ziro

ZIRO, Aug 25: EAC Mokar Riba, DTO, along with police personnel conducted a surprise checking in passenger vehicle ticket counters in and around Ziro township and sealed eight number of counters for operating without proper documents. Similar checking drive will be conducted in Raga, Deed, Yachuli and Yazali area, informed a reliable source.

 

ATI training on cash and accounts handling commences

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: A three-day training on cash and accounts handling in two batches - one for ministerial staff of Capital Complex and another for district administration staff commenced at Administrative Training Institute (ATI), Naharlagun today.

Altogether 59 participants from Capital Complex (30) and various other districts, including Kurung Kumey, Upper Subansiri, Lower Subansiri, Upper Siang, East Siang, West Siang, Lohit, Tirap, Changlang, Namsai, Lower Dibang Valley, Papum Pare, East Kameng, West Kameng and Tawang are attending the programme.

In his inaugural address, ATI Director Pate Marik said, since accounting and handling cash is a very important responsibility, every care should be taken to ensure an error free accounting.

This training programme being conducted by senior and experienced Finance and Accounts Officers of the State Government is expected to provide a good opportunity to the employees serving in remote areas.

The main resource persons from the training are Norbu Lama, retired (FAO), Taniyang Tatung (FAO) and Gautam Saha, (FAO).

 

Youths to undergo skill development training

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: In all 45 youths from the state are selected to undergo a 5-month long skill development training in Hospitality at Orion Edutech at Kolkata.  

The youths, selected through recent district level job mela-cum-skill development awareness and selection rallies held in every district throughout the state, will undergo training on soft skills like spoken English, communication, internet browsing etc.

During a briefing–cum-send off programme organised by the department of skill development and employment generation in Udyog Sadan, Itanagar here today, Skill Development and Employment Generation director Subu Tabin along with deputy director (Skill Development) K Sarma, assistant director J Riba and representative of Orion Edutech briefed the youths about the training and urged them to complete their training with dedication in order to find a suitable job after completion of the training.

The cost of the training will be borne by state government under Chief Minister’s skill development mission.

 

APPNRCA calls for verifying documents of contractors

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: The All Arunachal Pradesh Non Registered Contractor’s Association (APPNRCA) has called for verifying the documents of the firms before selection in the tender process. In a release, it alleged that various HoDs practice nepotism in awarding tender works to those having scanned and unauthentic documents which deprive genuine contractors.

Also alleging that the tendering process being practiced in the state is not as per guidelines of the CPWD as government officials are involved in conspiracy with concern ministers and the norms are grossly violated undermining the deserving firms, it sought booking such officials as per law under the provision for violation of CCS.

 

Multi-disciplinary training for farmers by KVK

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), West Siang conducted a one-day multi-disciplinary training programme for farmers at Disi village, about 13 kms from Basar town.

All together 45 farmers including rural youth and farm women attended the training.

The subject matter specialist in Plant Breeding of the KVK explained the farmers in details on crop improvement, including local varieties.

Another SMS in Animal Science and in-charge of the KVK enlightened the farmers about the recent techniques of poultry farming for sustainable income generation for rural farmers.

The SMS in Plant Protection highlighted on common diseases, insect pests and their control measures by applying physical, mechanical, biological and chemical methods.

The programme concluded with farmer–Subject Matter Specialist interaction on the topic of improvement of field crops, poultry farming and management of common insect pests, diseases in paddy.

 

Awareness programme held

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: An awareness programme on social issues was conducted at Pichola village on August 22 last by All Arunachal Pradesh Border Welfare Association (AAPBWA). Participating in the programme, people of Pichola, Gorubandha and Taramjuli highlighted the problems faced due to non installation of RCC post for proper demarcation of boundary between Arunachal and Assam.

 

ANYA applauds police action

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: While condemning the recent alleged murder of a woman Yapu Dong at Daporijo, the All Nyishi Youth Association (ANYA) has applauded the immediate action taken up by the police to nab the culprits.

Strongly raising voices against heinous crimes and disgraceful acts, ANYA also appealed to the budding youths to refrain from the acts like suicides which are frequent these days in some regions of the state.

"Life is not to take others' life nor to give up easily, it's to live for the family and the society", said Biri Kakum, ANYA president.

Meanwhile, ANYA once again appealed the concerned authorities to mend the dilapidated roads that have been damaged by the recent incessant rainfall in the twin Capital and Nyishi belt. People of places like Koloriang, Seppa, Daporijo, Chayang Tajo and various remote villages of the Nyishi belt are facing severe problems due to the dilapidated road condition, ANYA said adding that Seppa town is also facing acute shortage of rice and LPG due to the poor road condition.

ANYA also appealed to the authorities concerned to enquire into the sudden discontinuation of Seppa to Chayangtajo road work by the M/s Gammon India as per the direction of the PWD forcing the people of East Kameng to face untold miseries.

 

Org seek action

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: The All Arunachal Youth Federation has sought action against the culprit/s involved in the death of the teenager Lobsang Chotten whose dead body was found yesterday. The organisation wrote a letter to the Capital SP in this regard.

 

Rekam stands by his Facebook statement

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: Tarh Rekam has retorted by saying that he has posted the information against Speaker Nabam Rebia in Facebook to let people know how politicians support illegal immigrants in the state. Rekam has accused Rebia of bringing in more than 100 Bangladeshi Muslims for his ongoing multi-crore civil construction work at Poma misusing his official position for his personal benefits.

Speaker Nabam Rebia has filed a criminal complaint and civil defamation suite of Rs 10 crore against Rekam in the court of CJM Yupia.

Addressing media persons at Press Club here yesterday, Rekam said that the freedom of expression in the social media has been taken personally by the Speaker.

He said he is ready to fight the legal battle against the Speaker and hoped that the law will take its own course of action without any influence.

 

Post EAC soon

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: Claiming that the authorities till date have not posted an EAC at Taliha despite repeated pleas by the people of the area, the Charto Valley Welfare Society Taliha (CVWST) has in a representation to the state Chief Secretary today appealed to him to direct the appointing authorities to post one soon in the area.

The CVWST has also submitted a memorandum to the CS demanding, construction of officer and staff quarters, circuit house and IB at Kodak, infrastructure development of Paying CO headquarters, posting of headmaster at GSS Taliha, subject teachers at Kodak HSS and Taliha SS, UDC/LDC and computer operators, construction of road at Kodak and between BRTF road and ADC headquarters Chingku Konia Taliha besides, footpath and proper drainages at various colonies at Taliha along with establishment of a fire brigade etc.

It further urged the Upper Subansiri DC to initiate urgent steps for early fulfilment of all these demands.

 

Panchayat leader expresses unhappiness

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: The Anchal Samiti Member of I-Bhat Chimpu Panchayat has written to the Chief Secretary and Capital MLA Techi Kaso expressing displeasure over organisation of private party at Gyekar Sinyi. They alleged that party was organised after Secretary Tourism issued the permission.

 

Training on handloom, handicraft and computers held

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: A series of capacity building programmes were organised by the Arunachal Pradesh State Cooperative Union for youths under the Border Area Development Programme at Kalaktang, Chayangtajo and Nafra recently.

The programme organised with the support of director of skill development of employment generation, Itanagar was aimed at inculcating a sense of entrepreneurship among the local youths residing in border areas by imparting vocational training to make them self reliant.

In all, 130 youths were trained on handloom and handicraft making besides, basic computer training during the programme.

 

Literary competition

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: The Pushi Banggo Students Union recently conducted literary competitions among students of class-I to c lass X in five categories.

The literary competitions include poem, essay writing and drawing competitions.

Over 700 students from of Pushi Banggo area participated in the competition.

 

Script writing workshop held at SCCZ

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: The Department of Mass Communication of Saint Claret College, Ziro (SCCZ) held a two-day workshop on script writing which concluded today. The workshop was directed by Moji Riba, Assistant Professor in the Department of Mass Communication, Rajiv Gandhi University and was attended by all students of Mass Communication of the College.

The workshop had both theory and practical sessions on various techniques of script writing.

Demonstrating different techniques through diverse activities, Riba helped the participants gain insight into the art and science of script writing.

The workshop included screening of short documentary and fictional films and analysis of their scripts.

The participants were trained in the use of Idea Sheet and Idea Flow Chart as well as the dynamics of characterization and ethical imperatives in script writing.

The participant learning was assessed through various assignments. All in all, the workshop was a rich learning experience for the 35-strong participant contingent.

 

 

CORRECTION

The news item under heading “Women renovate village road” published on August 25 issue of this daily, the Municipal Ward Number was wrongly mentioned as 8 instead of 10. The inadvertent mistake is regretted.

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News Impact

` 986 cr earmarked to 32 depts by SDC

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: ` 986 crore has been earmarked for 32 state government departments for development activities by the State Development Council (SDC) during its first phase of meetings, which had started since August 18 and concluded here this evening under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Nabam Tuki.

The decision to switch over from the erstwhile State Planning Board (SPB) to the SDC marking structural changes in the planning process, has been showing impressive results with many departments witnessing quantum leaps in their budget estimates for 2015-16 from the previous years.

Ministers, Parliamentary Secretaries, Commissioners, Secretaries and Head of Departments expressed satisfaction over the outcome of the first phase of the SDC meetings and exuded confidence that the second phase would be equally fruitful, an official release said.

"Replacement of AOP system by State Annual Development Agenda is another important step by the government, making space for the departments to work efficiently to realise the desired goal of overall development," said a senior official.

The SDC had initially directed the departments to formulate broad guidelines for implementation of various schemes incorporating monitoring mechanism to ensure transparency and accountability.

Skill development and employment generation got the major stake during the week long meetings as maximum schemes and programmes were targeted to provide self employment to unemployed youths, the release said.

Winding up the first phase of meeting, the Chief Minister appealed all the departments to make the state and central government programmes cent percent successful with fruits of development reaching every nook and corner of Arunachal Pradesh.

He called for concerted and dedicated workforce of the state machinery to embark on a new and fresh development journey, the release said.

The first phase of the SDC meetings chalked out an one year road map for departments having no or very small component of Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS).

The second phase of SDC meetings, scheduled to be held soon, would cover departments having a major share of CSS and programmes, the release added. PTI

 

 

66 terminated RMSA employees facing uncertain future

Prafulla Kaman

PASIGHAT, Aug 25: As many as 66 non-teaching employees, including Office Assistants and Laboratory Attendants, who were appointed under Rashtriya Madhyamik Siksha Abhiyan (RMSA) in the state are facing an uncertain future with termination of their services by the authority.

The Deputy Mission Director of RMSA, Rajya Mission by a circular issued on May 28 this year directed the DDSEs concerned to discontinue the contract agreement of Laboratory Attendants and Office Assistants with effect from April 17, 2015. The mission director’s order has got due approval of Secretary (Education).

It is said that the Project Approval Board of HRD in its meeting on March 4 this year rejected the provisions for continuation of the non-teaching employees under RMSA.

The non-teaching staffs posted in different secondary schools have requested the authority for their re-absorption in service. The aggrieved employees under the banner of Arunachal Pradesh RMSA Employee Association (APRMSAEA) repeatedly moved the Education Minister and other ruling party bigwigs for making an alternative arrangement for their engagement, but no steps have been taken yet from the authority’s end.

The East Siang unit of APRMSAEA also submitted memorandum to Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Member of Parliament Ninong Ering urging them to take up their grievances with the Central Government.

The sufferers decried the government’s reported move to appoint a large number of Resource Teachers in Information Technology and Tours and Travel department besides some Laboratory Assistants of Information Technology under RMSA.

 

 

Urban chaos and Smart Cities

[ Tongam Rina ]

Even before he was elected the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi had put bringing back black money allegedly stacked in Swiss Banks and building 100 Smart Cities in the country high on his agenda.

Among the two, selection of Smart Cities is on the roll. In few days time, centre will short list 20 cities in the first phase, from across the country under its ambitious project to strengthen existing facilities in cities as well as make it ecologically responsive, technologically integrated with reliance on the use of information technology.

Overall some Rs 98,000 crore has been approved for development of 100 smart cities and rejuvenation of 500 others across the country with the Cabinet approval of Rs 48,000 crore for Smart Cities Mission and Rs 50,000 crore for Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation. With  Rs 100 Cr earmarked for each city, the centre expects the states to pitch in its share as well as bring in investment for development of Smart Cities. This is rather worrying for a resource begging state like Arunachal.

On the other hand, controversy revolving the technical recommendation of Pasighat as a probable Smart City candidate has rather been unexpected and High Powered Committee obviously did not anticipate that there will be opposition to it.

But setting up of any institution or implementation of schemes has not been without any controversy in the state. And setting a bad precedence, the state government have always bowed down to the pressure including deviating from original plans. The NIT currently at Yupia was forced to be set up in Capital after massive protest by Itanagar based organi-sations to previously proposed site at Bhalukpong. Within Itanagar, the prime example is the Greenfield airport. Supporters of Kharsingsa and Hollongi were at loggerheads for a long time. Now, after so much of chaos and tussle, it looks like it would take another decade or so till we get an airport, thanks to issue of compensation and land management.

Students vocal candidature for a smart city consideration comes across as more emotional, than technical. For one, it is a fact that Itanagar has nothing much to offer today, except for the sheer reason that it is the capital. As People from all over the state continue to flock the twin towns and nearby villages, and the government having absolutely no plan on how to handle this, the city increasingly becomes unable to provide even basic necessities to its citizens-be it water, roads, garbage management or something as basic as effective traffic control. Harsh as it may sound, it is perhaps beyond repair.

This is why it is pertinent that development projects, educational, health institutions are not only shared and distributed equally all over the state, but also created in locations that yet have a space for course correction and adaptation.  Our twin town is frankly beyond repair and even the scope of strengthening the few existing facilities, as envisioned under Smart City are going to be a mammoth task as it has turned into an extremely unplanned concrete jungle.

Deep down, the issue today is not if Pasighat is the right candidate for the smart city project. The bigger question remains - is Itanagar?

 

 

NGOs, Govt. depts roles vital in fighting HIV/AIDS: CM

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: The menace of HID/AIDS can be effectively tackled with the active participation of various government departments and NGOs, said Chief Minister Nabam Tuki.

Tuki, who chaired the meeting of State Council on AIDS in his office chamber here today, said that there should be ‘dos’ and ‘don'ts’ incorporated in the school’s textbooks for the students so that they can learn about HIV/AIDS at the early age.

He also stressed on the role of the parents in guiding the youth in the right path. He assured to provide Rs. 15 lakh from the state budget for the transportation and corpus fund for the people living with HIV in the state apart from the centrally sponsored budget.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Rajesh Tacho in his address said that any disease and illness does not affect the individuals in terms of the physical or medicinal aspect alone. It also affects in all other spheres – the psychological, the social, the economic and the cultural realms. The impact is more so in respect of HIV/AIDS, because of the fact that we do not have any vaccine or a definite cure for HIV/AIDS as on today, he said.

The expensive nature of the treatment of opportunistic infections to AIDS, and the stigma and discrimination attached to it makes it even more challenging to address the issue of HIV/AIDS, the Health Minister said. “Much have been done and yet much more needs to be done to contain HIV in the state,” he added.

Secretary in Charge (H&FW) Dr. BM Mishra called for collaborative efforts from various departments, like Education, Home, Social Welfare, Sports & Youth Affairs, Panchayati Raj, Rural Development, Supply and Transports, Urban Development for effective HIV/AIDS prevention and control in the state.

Secretary (Education), Marnya Ete assured all possible support from his department while Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Secretary Indra Mallo suggested broadcasting of radio jingles on HIV in local language to reach the rural population.  

Chief Secretary in charge, Secretary Finance, Sports and Youth Affairs Secretary, IPR Secretary, Director Health, Project Director APSACS, also spoke on the occasion.

 

 

PPA welcomes CBI inquiry against CM

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: People’s Party of Arunachal (PPA) said that institution of CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) inquiry against Chief Minister Nabam Tuki on charges of nepotism could be a turning point in the political history of the state in the fight against corruption.

“The CBI enquiry has come as a blessing for the people of the state at a time when all are worried about the degeneration of sub-systems in the state,” stated party Secretary General Kaling Jerang in a party meeting.

“There should be no one and no way to defend a government that has been blind to the discontent of its people and that has miserably failed in all the fronts, be it in fiscal management, law and order problem, road traffic management to cite a few,” Jerang said.

The very fact is that the CBI is soon to investigate against the Chief Minister of Arunachal which should be welcomed by all, he said.

It is unfortunate that instead of drawing positive inspirations from the other developed states we are still trying to draw comparisons on wrong examples, he said.

“A true son of the soil will not and should not defend a corrupt leader. Tuki was given a chance amidst great social and political turmoil but he has betrayed the public trust. Either he should step down with full humility or the public should unite in demanding his resignation, he added.

 

 

Citizens come together against Opium menace

TEZU, Aug 25: A seminar cum awareness camp on opium with the theme “Opium earns but Harms” was organised under the banner of Cultural & Literary Society of Mishmi (CALSOM) with the support of Lohit district administration at Wakro mini indoor stadium on August 22.

“Opium and its use - a social evil” was the unanimous  voice that was raised by all including senior citizens,  Govt officials, panchayat members, opium addicts and general public who gathered together to spearhead a movement against Opium especially in the Wakro and Medo areas under Lohit district.

Speaking on the occasion, Tezu Sadar SDO Gautam Hazarika, EE Power L Khimhum suggested various means of income to substitute opium and assured to liaison with the district administration to find out every possible means to end the menace.

Heads of offices from Horticulture, Agriculture, Fishery, Textile & Handicraft and other allied departments present in the meeting suggested diverse sources of generating income replacing Opium. However some of the members criticised the alleged manipulation and politicisation of the schemes depriving the poor villagers and condemned the government’s alleged irresponsibility and negligence in bringing various schemes  to people’s door step in true spirit.

“If local people were made available with alternative crops with proper departmental guidance then we could replace Opium gradually. Also we should not limit ourselves in organising rallies, processions, camps but should change our approach,” said Somodang Tawsik, convener of CALSOM Wakro unit.

He said the existence of Mishmis is in threat as students and youths are habituated in Opium consumption and the need of the hour is to root out the menace with determination.

Sanjay Singh, member from Narcotic Control Bureau Guwahati also highlighted on various beneficial schemes of the Government of India to replace Opium and formation of committees at state and district levels to generate awareness against Opium.

“Our last resort is to destroy the standing crop or arrest the cultivators under the Narcotic Acts. This kind of illegal practice must be shunned at all cost to avoid legal action”, Singh cautioned.

Dr S Tawsik, Pathologist GH Naharlagun, observed that Opium is socially, economically and customarily rooted in Mishmi society. He called for holistic support from law enforcing authorities and civil societies for complete eradication of Opium menace. He also stressed on awareness cum sensitization camps besides establishment of de-addiction camp. At the same time we should encourage them to go for alternative crops, Tawsik opined.

CE PHED Lapalum Kri suggested Government’s various schemes and plan to percolate rightly to reduce its cultivation, while S Minin EAC Mantaw especially appealed the women folk to join the brigade against Opium menace.

Dr. S Niyal DRCHO Lohit alleged Opium being available at shops and with petty traders making windfall business in the racket that needs to be thwarted out.

Some of the speakers alleged outsiders cultivating Opium at reserve forest area at Medo and openly selling at weekly market. They have urged the law enforcing agencies to initiate stringent action against the culprits.

Among others Patam Rangmang ZPM Wakro, Suraj Tayang GS CALSOM, Dakto Riba EAC Wakro also spoke about the evil effects of Opium and its remedies. DIPRO

 

 

Arunachal should produce Earth scientist: Rao

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: Geological Survey of India (GSI) director MK Rao yesterday  said  that geologically rich Arunachal  Pradesh should  popularize geology as a subject among the students to produce earth scientist. Addressing the Geologist Day celebration function at Geological Survey of India (GSI) office here Rao opined Arunachal still does not have any geologist from local people. Therefore, he said, geology subject should be popularised among the common masses and the school students in particular, so that they will pursue their career in the field of earth science, which has huge job opportunities.

The day was dedicated to the great Indian Geologist Dr. MS Krishnan, who was the first Indian Director of Geological Survey of India and the author of the book, ‘Geology of India and Burma’.

Rao further  said that the geologist community has played a very important role in the development of the nation in general and Arunachal Pradesh in particular by way of providing their services for hydropower, roads, bridges, railways, remote sensing, hydrology, mineral exploration etc.

Baldev Singh, Dy. Director General, GSI Itanagar, expressed his happiness for organising a day dedicated to earth scientists and hoped that this community will grow bigger and contribute to the nation building more collectively.

The conclave was attended by earth scientists of Geological Survey of India, Central Ground Water Board, State DGM, APMDTCL, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh and State Remote Sensing Application Centre, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh.

A drawing competition was conducted on Earth Science among school children to popularise the subject among them.

The students along with their teachers were shown various minerals, rocks, fossil specimens kept in the museum of GSI and the Seismic Observatory. This programme was followed by a photography competition (on geology) and earth science quiz competition among the members of the Geologist community of Itanagar.

 

 

30th National Eye Donation fortnight launched

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: The 30th National Fortnight on Eye Donation 2015 was launched by Parliamentary Secretary, Karya Bagang in a function at Don Bosco College, Jollang today.  

Speaking on the occasion, she appealed to all sections of the society to take pledge to donate their eyes after death. “Our eyes have no value after our death but we can light the life of a blind person by donating our eyes even after death,” she said.

To set an example of dedication and true to her word, she consented and pledged to donate her eyes.

Dr. Reto Doye, Joint Director Medical Education (Training & Research) dwelt on the pros and cons of eye care services in the country in general and state in particular. He requested the state Govt to equip the hospitals with modern instrument to augment eye care services in the state.

Earlier in the day, Dr. Kaling Darang, Head of Ophthalmology Department, Arunachal State Hospital, Naharlagun in his presentation described details of the eye donation. He also outlined the difficulties and limitation of eye donation programme in the country and the state in particular and appealed the young generation to shoulder the responsibility on spreading the goodwill message in the community. Father Nicholas, Principal of Don Bosco College encouraged the students and community elders to come forward for the noble mission and he also later pledged to donate his eyes.

Following him, 43 students of Don Bosco College pledged to donate their eyes.

The function was organised by NPCB cell, Directorate of Health services, Naharlagun to mark the beginning of the two weeks long campaign for generating awareness on eye donation. The campaign will be launched in all the districts of the state till September 8, according to an official release.

At Aalo: The National fortnight on eye donation was observed at Govt. Middle School, Pakam in West Siang district with participation by teachers and students today.

Presiding over the inaugural function, Dr. Marbom Basar, DMO cum member Secretary DHS (DBCS) Aalo, advised the teachers and students on the importance of eye care and appealed them to disseminate the information among the public about the need of eye donation.

He also dwelt on the need of Dengue, JE prevention and appealed everyone to use mosquito nets as precautionary measures.

Dr. Bai Bam, Eye Specialist of the General Hospital, gave a presentation on the causes of corneal diseases and eye donation after death and its social value. DIPRO

 

 

Changlang DC unhappy with performance of health institutions

CHANGLANG, Aug 25: Changlang Deputy Commissioner, Wayong Khimhun has expressed concern over the poor performance by various health institutions in Changlang district. He asked the DMO in-charge to ensure productive services and imbibe work culture among the health officials for improvement in health indicators. He urged all to work with dedication and try to make every Govt programme successful. The DC was presiding over the 2nd quarter performance review meeting on National Health Mission activities and 5th District Task Force meeting for Routine Immunization, Mission Indradhanush and Intensive Diarrhea Control Fortnight, which was organised by the District Health Society, Changlang at DC’s conference hall here today. With a vision to provide improved service to the people of the district, he cautioned that cross checking of the services provided by all the departments will be done through government representatives adding that wrong doers including opium users and its illegal traffickers will not be tolerated.

Earlier, in-charge DMO Dr Tope Yomcha while giving presentation on the performance of the health institutions in the district, raised some of the major factors responsible for poor performance of the various health institutions in the district like lack of specialist doctors, insufficient medical officers, poor internet facility. He also raised the issue of fund constraints in routine immunization programme for the last 3 years. “Most health indicators are based on routine immunization and Govt should give it a priority”, he advocated. He also blamed monsoon for poor performance of mission Indradhanush. On his request the house approved for submission of fresh proposal for continuation of the mission for another year.

The meeting was attended by ADC, Jairampur Kento Riba and MO in-charges of various health institutions in the district.

Earlier, the District Health Society, Changlang also convened meeting on vertical programmes amongst the MOs of various health institutions of the district at District Hospital, Changlang, where Dr M Khimhun, Programme Officer gave a presentation on Revised TB Control Programme. Dr R C Das also gave a presentation on National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme. DIPRO

 

 

APCA delegates take part in Inter-Religious seminar

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: Arunachal Pradesh Catholic Association (APCA) president Taw Tebin, Secretary General Pekhi Nabum attended the three days Inter-Religious seminar on Communal Harmony and Peace and seminar on Political Awareness organised by the All India Catholic Union (AICU) in coordination with the Federation of Catholic Association of Archdioceses of Delhi from Aug 21 to 23 last. The seminar aimed to update the AICU members on the need for co-existence ensuring communal harmony and peace in the society.

During the seminar on Political Awareness, AICU delegates were sensitised to participate in political activities in their respective region and contribute to the development of the country.

Minority Affairs Minister Najma Hepatulla has attended the seminar as chief guest along with other religious leaders of different faiths including Islam, Sikhism, Bahai, Judaism, Jainism, Parsi and Hinduism.

 

 

Training under BADP begins at Parsi-Parlo

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: The three weeks capacity building cum skill development training programme on tailoring, weaving cloths and handicraft under Border Area Development Programme (BADP) blocks for Damin and Parsi-Parlo Circles concluded yesterday at Circle Officer’s Conference Hall, Parsi-Parlo. Altogether 118 trainees have successfully completed their training and have expressed their gratitude to the State Govt for organising such noble venture in the remote border block of the state. They have requested the authority concern for conduction of many more programmes of such type in their area for the benefit of the people at the grassroots. Training programme was sponsored by the Department of Skill Development and Employment Generation, Govt. Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar and organised by Manghi Welfare Society, Sangram.

Speaking during the valedictory function, Nangram Pingkap, Circle Officer –cum- Block Development Officer, Parsi-Parlo suggested the trainees for continues updating of their acquired skills during the three weeks training. In response to an appeal from the trainees, the CO-cum-BDO assured that he will take up with the appropriate authority for setting up of a Training Centre at Parsi-Parlo in the next financial year. Pingkap also assured that preference of all the Govt. sponsored subsidy schemes will be provided to those people who have undergone skill development training in phased manner and suggested for promotion of Self Help Group (SHGs) in the area for availing subsidy schemes. Stressing on the need for organising longer periods of skill development training especially in handloom and textile sectors, he said that three weeks period of training on tailoring has to be extended to atleast two months. Appreciating the State Govt. for sponsoring such job oriented programme in remote areas, he viewed that this venture is really going to empower the rural people in the long run. Expressing concern over the excess exploitation of natural resources in Kurung-Kumey District, the CO highlighted the importance of promotion of sustainable development.

Attending the programme Tai Tariam, Extension Officer (Rural Engineer), Damin encouraged the trainees for judicious utilisation of their natural resources for income generation to improve their living standards.

Er. Bamang Chai, District Training Coordinator shared his views on the benefit of such training and asked all stakeholder to avail the opportunity of these well intended flagship programme for economic advancement and assured that more of such training programmes will be organised in the coming days on need based policy.  Ngurang Tado, President, Manghi Welfare Society and Vocational Training Provider also spoke on the occasion.

 

 

ADU vouches for Pasighat as Smart City

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: In the backdrop of opposition to the state government’s choice for Pasighat in the list of Smart Cities Mission and to choose Itanagar instead, the Arunachal Development Union (ADU) has vouched for Pasighat to be the Smart City saying that the opposition is baseless and is not supported by any factual reason or evidence.

Smart City projects is a central government initiative with strict laid down guidelines and criteria for selection of project site, process of implementation etc which was released in the month of June 2015 to be undertaken by the Ministry of Urban Development, Govt. of India. In the first stage there are state/UT level challenges/competitions for nominating their respective cities as a potential candidate for Smart City based on which central government decides a potential city for Smart City. In the second stage, central committees and nominated consultancy firms (which 9 firms for our region) selects final feasible site for Smart City from the potential cities submitted by the UT/State in stage-1. Hence, there is no room for manipulation or overlooking of certain factors while selecting site for Smart City, ADU Chairman Nabam Tagam stated in a release.

Some of the so called welfare association has habit of raising voice against any or every initiatives taken by democratically elected government for the name sake without real concern for the welfare of the citizen. In this particular case, there is no point or logic of opposing Pasighat as Smart City because Pasighat is very much in Arunachal. The choice is a wise decision saying that it is favoured by suitable location which has all the features for Smart City as highlighted in guidelines released by the central government, the union stated.

Itanagar being the Capital city and administrative centre will automatically develop itself in due course of time unlike another city which will have less attention in developmental sphere. Hence, it is ok from every angle to give city like Pasighat a chance for development through special developmental package such as Smart City Project (SCP), ADU further added.

 

 

Arunachlee players at national chess championship

ITANAGAR, Aug 25: Tamar Nilling and Taba Anam representing Arunachal Pradesh in the ongoing Global Square 53rd National Challenger Chess Championship, 2015 at Nagpur, have earned two points each after the end of Round 7.

According to information received here today, the players from the state are performing well and giving tough fight to their respective opponents.

Besides Nilling and Anam, state’s second ranked player Hage Lassa (Nado) is participating in the championship.

Anam, who was assigned by All Arunachal Pradesh Chess Association as Team Manager, taking the privilege of their absence is playing as a player.  

The championship was inaugurated by Sunil Gujjelwar, Superintending Engineer, NIT, Nagpur.  

This championship is considered as one of the toughest championships as most of the Grand Masters (GM), Women Grand Masters (WGM), International Masters (IM), Women International Masters (WIM), Candidate Masters (CM), Women Candidate Masters (WCM), Fide Masters (FM) , Women Fide Masters (WFM) and lots of internationally high rated points holders take part in it.

All together 260 players are participating in this championship from every state.

The championship is being conducted in Swiss League System comprising 13 rounds.

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---- Editorial ----

 

Over dependence on Govt.

In Arunachal most of the time citizens depends on government for the development project. This overdependence on government is one of main reasons for the lack of development. Unless citizens contribute their bit, the state will never witness proper development. People have to understand that government alone cannot carry out all the developmental activities. The support and active participation of citizens is must for any state to progress.

Encouragingly people Arunachal finally seems to have realized this and are beginning to make small contribution from their side too.  Over 100 women including elderly women of Jarku (Siang bank) village under Pasighat Municipal area recently carried out repairing of the Jarku portion of Jarku-Siang road. The women group took one almost week to complete the repairing work. What is inspiring most is that they themselves carried out the repairing work without seeking help from any government agencies. People of Arunachal should take inspiration from such selfless act. Unfortunately in our state majority of the developmental projects are progressing at snail pace. Sadly most of the time, it is the local people who create big obstacle in the implementation of these projects. We need to shed this anti-development attitude and become partner in the development process.

 

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---- Readers Forum ----

 

An open letter to R.N. Ravi, Interlocutor

for Government of India

Dear Editor,

In the light of the much hyped Naga Peace Accord – a framework agreement – signed between Government of India (GOI) and NSCN (I-M) on 3rd August 2015, the Naga National Council (NNC) is constrained to write this letter to you for record and for your perusal and introspection.

It is a well-known fact that the Nagas, before the advent of the British colonial Raj, lived in a state of utter freedom, freedom from internal domination or external domination.  Despite the seemingly unending village feuds, there was total absence of imperial ambition on the part of any village, no matter how big or strong it is, to force another village into a state of submission and subjugation. The sovereignty of each village was unquestionable.

Through various contacts and conflicts with the outside world, mostly during the two World Wars, some visionary Nagas realized the importance of living together under one political umbrella as a free nation. Subsequently, the Naga Club was formed in 1918. In its memorandum to the Simon Commission in 1929, the leaders demanded in no uncertain terms that “[Naga] hills may be withdrawn from the reformed scheme and placed outside the reforms....to leave us alone to determine for ourselves as in ancient times”. The British respected the desire of the Nagas and placed the Nagas under the “Excluded Area” by the Government of India Act 1935.

In 1946, the Naga Club was renamed as the Naga National Council (NNC) for pursuing the collective aspiration of the Nagas – to defend the sovereignty of the Nagas. In June 1947, the Governor of Assam, Sir Akbar Hydari negotiated an agreement with the NNC known as the 9 Point Agreement. However that very evening of signing the agreement, Sir Akbar Hydari warned the Naga delegation that if Nagas refused to join the Indian Union, India would use force against them. Sensing the futility of the agreement and the impending violence, a Naga delegation met Mahatma Gandhi on 19th July 1947 at Bhangi Colony in Delhi where Gandhiji assured them with these words, “Nagas have every right to be independent. We did not want to live under the domination of the British and they are now leaving us. I want you to feel that India is yours. I feel the Naga Hills are mine just as much as they are yours. But if you say that they are not mine, the matter must stop there. I believe in the brotherhood of man, but I do not believe in force or forced unions. If you do not wish to join the Union of India, nobody will force you to do that.”

Note that the issue in focus is not about Nagas wanting to leave Indian Union but about the question of Nagas joining Indian Union. The prior independence of Nagas was not in question at all. At this point, it is pertinent even to recall what Mr. Jawaharlal Nehru has said about the status of Nagaland in 1946, in connection with the proposed British Colony of Couplan: “The Tribal Areas are defined as being those long frontiers neither of India which are neither part of India nor Burma, nor of Indian states nor of any foreign power.”

Moreover, the fact that the status of Crown Colony was offered to the Nagas before the departure of the British Raj implies that Nagas had the right to choose their own future. Nagas chose to remain free as before and decided to declare their independence on 14th August 1947.

The declaration of Naga Independence was cabled to the UN. To augment this decision, the NNC organized the Plebiscite in 1951 wherein 99.9% voted for Naga independence. In keeping with this general will to be free, Nagas refused to take part in the first and second general elections of free India which were held respectively in 1952 and 1957.

The above is history that speaks clearly for the right and aspiration of the Nagas. What follows is a very brief and selected account of India’s policies and actions against the desire of the Nagas to live as free and independent people.

First: The GOI through its various agencies masterminded the formation of the Naga People’s Convention (NPC) and signed the 16th Point Agreement (1960) that in turn resulted in the statehood formation of Nagaland in 1963. Instead of taking initiatives as part of the agreement to consolidate the contagious Naga areas within the Nagaland state, it has so far succeeded in dividing the Nagas more and more.

What was once a free Naga land without any authority over us is now divided up into different parts wherein a great part is now under different political and administrative control of non-Naga states such as Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. The most tragic part of this agreement is that these other states have shamelessly come to think that Naga lands belong to them and making a hue and cry to protect their territorial integrity. None dared even to wander into the Naga inhabited areas before. Let alone claiming ownership or control of the Naga lands! Thus, the agreement not only divided the Nagas but suppressed the rights and freedom of the Nagas which we traditionally enjoyed.

Second: The Shillong Accord which was signed in 1975 between the Naga “underground” representatives and the GOI sowed the seed of dissension and division among the Nagas –it gave birth to NSCN in 1980. Due to differences within the NSCN camp, more divisions came up, NSCN

(Reformation) being the latest one to be formed this year. Altogether there are four groups of NSCN today. And within the fold of NNC, due to the controversial nature of the said accord, there are five separate NNC groups today. The Accord thus not only destroyed the unity of the Naga national workers but also brought about much bloodshed and conflicts among the Nagas. Whether or not it was originally designed to bring about untold troubles upon the Nagas, it is very clear that the Accord gradually fractured both Naga aspiration and Naga unity. It is hypocritical on the part of the GOI to say that it is committed to solving Indo-Naga conflict and yet capitalizing on this division by constantly furthering divisive spirit among the Nagas either by declaring one group an outlaw or entering into cease-fire and related agreements with another group or remaining completely indifferent to some others.

In the light of the above discussions, it is not difficult to suspect the intent and possible consequences of the Naga Peace Accord (2015), yet another accord. Both the above agreements with the GOI to end the Indo-Naga issue therefore only succeeded in multiplying and magnifying the problem due to their exclusive and manipulative approach. As seemingly significant as the present Peace Accord appears to be, it is just between GoI and NSCN (IM), one of the many Naga Political Groups (NPGs).

Though indications are given on the part of both GOI and NSCN (IM) to be inclusive in its approach, it is still a matter of serious speculation about the framework of the agreement to safeguard the rights and aspiration of the Nagas as envisioned by the pioneers of NNC.

Perhaps peace is the guiding force and logic of this agreement as the name of the agreement itself suggests but the truth of the Indo-Naga conflict is about the sovereignty of the Nagas, a cause for which much lives have been sacrificed and peaceful life compromised and not primarily about peaceful co-existence or development even. Peace as desirable as it can be is only possible as a consequent and product of honourable and acceptable solution and not vice-versa. As such, instead of solving the Indo-Naga conflict, this Accord is likely to bring about further division and distrust not only amongst the Nagas but between the Nagas and the GOI as witnessed in our historical experiences. Is the GOI gearing up to repeat another error in history?

Is the GOI too blind to see the truths of history? Is the GOI still thinking that the aspiration of the Nagas can be forced or bribed into pale silence by special packages? These questions are being directed to you by us since we are not yet prepared at any cost to deviate from our original outcry – Leave us alone!

Yours,

Thepushuyi S. Keyho

Vice President,

Naga National Council (NNC)

Happy Camp, Phek, Nagaland

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All email and surface mails must be accompanied with contact numbers and full postal address. Do keep writing but please make sure that letters are short and to the point.        

----Editor