dec16 04

December 04

2011

2016

Frontier highway & industrial corridor being mooted

ITANAGAR, Dec 3: Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju informed that the Home Ministry was mooting proposals for a frontier highway and industrial corridor for Arunachal Pradesh.

"We are proposing the frontier highway to connect all towns along the international border and the industrial corridor to connect all the foothill areas. These roads along with the ongoing trans-Arunachal highway in the middle belt will become the lifelines of the state around which other arterial roads would come up solving the connectivity hurdle forever," said Rijiju during a meeting on 'Special Package for Border Areas' with Chief Minister Pema Khandu here on Saturday afternoon, which was also attended by Home Minister Kumar Waii, Joint Secretary, Border Management (Ministry of Home Affairs) Pradeep Gupta and Chief Secretary Shakuntala D Gamlin.

Admitting that road connectivity in border areas is of utmost importance, Rijiju said he had been pushing for relaxation of norms specifically for Arunachal Pradesh in implementation of PMGSY, which is based on population.

"The Union Home Ministry will pursue with the concerned ministry for connecting each registered village under PMGSY by relaxing its norms for the state," he said.

Rijiju urged the state government to complete its exercise of submitting proposals immediately so that MHA can pursue the same with concerned ministries for sanction.

Chief Minister Pema emphasized on road connectivity to usher development and welfare projects in remote border areas of the state so that migration of local populace to urban areas, making the border strategically vulnerable, is checked.

The proposal for seeking a 'special package' for border area development was mooted in 2014 but got delayed due to various factors.

Saying that further delay in going ahead with the proposals would hamper timely development of remote border areas, Pema urged officials of the departments concerned to submit their proposals immediately.

"We have lost enough time. We can't wait anymore," he said.

The state government is seeking special assistance from Centre in the sectors of health, education, rural connectivity, power (including solar and alternate resources), drinking water and civil supplies.

The Chief Minister strictly advised officials not to include projects in their respective proposals that are already being covered under ongoing central government and state government flagship programmes and schemes.

"Avoid duplicity and take up projects that are not covered in any ongoing schemes and programmes for special dispensation," he said.

The Chief Minister assured Rijiju of judicious implementation of all funds granted by the Center for developmental projects and asserted that corruption in any form will not be tolerated.

Joint Secretary, Border Management, Home Affairs, Pradeep Gupta clarified that the concern departments taking care of health, education, rural connectivity, power, drinking water and civil supplies have to finalize their proposals justifying their request for funds and submit it to MHA.

"We will then send the proposals to the line ministries for examination. Then MHA will place the proposal in the union Cabinet for special dispensation," he said.

Gupta urged the state government officials to follow up with their respective proposals till approval by the Cabinet.

"MHA is with the state government in this venture and will take up all issues related to this special package with the line ministries," the Joint Secretary assured.

A meeting in this regard is slated to be held at MHA by second half of this month.

Meanwhile, the departments of Health, Education, Rural Development, Power, Hydropower, APEDA, PHE&WS and Civil Supplies highlighted the details of their respective proposals through PowerPoint.

Lama Gyatso receives Wildlife Service Award

ITANAGAR, Dec 3: Lama Lobsang Gyatso, one of the most vocal opponents of Hydro power projects in Tawang region, received the prestigious Sanctuary Wildlife Service Award in a ceremony held at the National Centre for Performing Arts, Mumbai on Friday evening. The award was handed over to Gyatso by former Deputy Governor of Reserve Bank of India, Usha Thorat in presence of several dignitaries including Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, former top cop Julio Rebeiro and editor of Sanctuary Asia magazine, Bittu Sahgal.

The award recognises the works of Lama Gyatso through the Save Mon Region Federation for protection of the rivers, ecology and wildlife of Tawang, in particular the wintering habitat of the revered Black necked-crane. The National Green Tribunal had in a landmark judgement suspended the environmental clearance of the 780 MW Nyamjang Chhu project in April 2016 in response to an Appeal filed by SMRF.

Gyatso in his acceptance speech dedicated the award to the two martyrs of the police firing on May 2nd in Tawang.

Sanctuary Asia said that SMRF and Gyatso have "fought the battle to protect Tawang's rivers and culture at various levels- local rallies and campaigns, meeting parliamentarians in Delhi, reporting environment and forest violations to the MoEFCC, media advocacy, community mobilisation, legal action and documentation of culturally and ecologically sensitive sites affected by certain destructive hydroelectric projects.

"Despite hurdles, he and SMRF continue their uphill battle to protect the rivers, wildlife and culture of Tawang. His work has resulted in many villages in the area adopting Gram Sabha resolutions against destructive projects impacting cultural sites, livelihoods and wildlife species," it said.

The event was hosted by Bollywood actor and Governing Body member of Sanctuary Nature Foundation, Dia Mirza.

Exploration should be translated into economic activities: Rijiju

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Dec 3: Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju said that expedition of Kanto Peak in East Kameng district under Lada Circle should be translated into economic activities and tourism.

MoS was addressing the gathering at ITBP-IMF Mt.Kangto Joint Expedition 2016 flagged in ceremony organised by Indo Tibetan Border Police(ITBP) at Northeast ITBP headquarter Khatting Hills, Itanagar on Saturday.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu flagged off the 32 members of ITPB and IMF joint expedition of Mt. Kangto led by Deputy Commandant Hari Singh of ITBPF on September 25, 2016.

Stating that Arunachal has mountaineering potential, Rijiju said the major route expedition can be developed in Gourichan and Mount Kangto route.

"We need to develop regular trekking route from Lada to Kangto peak" Rijiju said while assuring all possible help from the centre to create infrastructure for the trekking route.

Rijiju also requested the Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Home Minister Kumar Waii who is local MLA of 8th Bameng Constituency to find mechanism to connect road to village at base camp. He also advised that the centre and state need to work out what scheme would be appropriate in case it doesn't fall under the centre normal schemes. Rijiju assured to look into the issues such as air courier service of ITBP and others problems raised by ITBP IG M S Rawat during his address.

Acknowledging the ITBP jawans for their service to nation at high altitude, Rijiju informed that Ministry of Home Affairs is soon introducing High Altitude Award for outstanding ITBP Jawans who are posted at 13000 ft.

Congratulating the Mount Kangto expedition team Chief Minister Pema Khandu said that exploration will be beneficial for Arunachal Pradesh in terms of adventure tourism. Stating the infrastructures development needs to be created for paramilitary forces deployed in border areas, he requested MoS Home to address the infrastructural gap. He also urged that Home Minister Kumar Waii the local MLA of Bameng Constituency submit proposal for road connectivity up to the base camp. The CM urged the Chief Secretary Shakuntala D Gamlin to initiate a scheme to provide basic requirements such as health and education benefits for people living in accessible areas.

ITBP Northeast Frontier IG, MS Rawat in his welcome address termed the expedition significant in terms of adventure and research point of view. Rawat informed that many attempts were made by many organisations but due to inclement weather and treacherous terrain it could not be explored earlier. He also sought the government to allocate fund to create permanent trekking route to Mount Kangto. Besides guarding the international border we also want to serve the civilian in education and health sectors through civic action programe" IG added.

The colourful culture programe were displayed to mark the occasion including synchronized rifle dance presented by ITBP commandos. Home Minister Kumar Waii, Parliamentary Secretary for Youths and Sports Affairs Nyamar Karbak and Chief Secretary Shakuntala D Gamlin along with host of dignitaries and ITBP top officials were, among others, present during the function.

Jomin Tayeng Memorial Award 2016

Follow the footprints of late Tayeng: Felix

ROING, Dec 3: Jomin Tayeng Memorial Award 2016 giving function was held at Parbuk Govt. Secondary School here on Saturday, wherein Laptops and certificates were given to the meritorious students of class X and XII.

Attending the function, Parliamentary Secretary (Education) Bamang Felix recalled the contributions of Lt. Jomin Tayeng towards the society and the state and appealed to follow his footprints.

Taking note on status of education system in the state, he urged the teaching community work in a missionary zeal to transform the entire population into a literate society.

He announced financial aid of Rs.50 lakh in Phase-I to re-build the Loklung Primary School and Anpum Upper Primary School which were damaged in the last monsoon flood, 25 lakh for dining hall at Govt. Hr. Secondary School, Roing. Financial assistance was also provided for Govt. Degree College Jemi Notko and Poly Tech College. He informed that fund for development of Govt. Degree Model College would be provided after shifting of the college to its permanent site. He also assured to pursue the Govt. for organizing this Award function as state level event.

Earlier, Abu Saring, Principal Govt. Hr. Sec. School, Bolung narrated the life history late Tayeng--the first IAS officer of Arunachal Pradesh securing all India 51st rank in 1968.

Tayeng was posted in Arunachal Pradesh in 1976 wherein he was allocated the Director of Industries and then as Secretary to CM of A.P. During his short tenure in Arunachal he was instrumental in mooting the policy and finally implemented policies like making recruitment policy of the state to 80:20, creation of Industrial estate near Naharlagun etc.

Tayeng was elected to represent the people of 42nd Dambuk Assembly Constituency and brought many new things and developments. He breathed his last at International Hospital, Guwahati on May 7, 2013.

T. Gao, Director Education, Basu Perme, Ex MLA, T.Tado, PD, DRDA, Raju Tayeng (Eldest son of Lt.Jomin Tayeng), Toni Pertin, HM, Parbuk, Starson Saring, ZPM, Parbuk also spoke on the occasion.

The award giving function was attended by Tapi Gao, Gum Tayeng all the family members of Lt. Tayeng, Sipi Elapra, ZPC, HoDs, PRI members, teachers, students and officials.

Floral tributes were paid to the portrait of late Tayeng by all present on the occasion. DIPRO

BJYM cadres urged to tighten belt, make BJP vibrant

ITANAGAR, Dec 3: Addressing the concluding day of the two-day BJYM executive conclave here on Saturday, almost all the BJP leaders have urged the BJYM leaders to tighten their belt and play crucial role to make the party vibrant and bring awareness among the grass root level people on various developmental schemes of the Central Government.

Addressing the huge gathering, BJP leader and Union Minister of State for Home affairs, Kiren Rijiju called upon the BJYM leaders to raise awareness on bold decision taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in curbing black money scourge which is impeding the growth of the country.

Stating that no organisation's mission can be successful without youth power, the Union Minister said the role of BJYM in making BJP a vibrant in the state is very important. He further added BJP fought the 2014 election effectively in the state, despite the tremendous money power of the Congress, primarily because of the BJYM's active role. Rijiju further said that in 2019 election, BJP will be given even bigger mandate and the situation in the country will very different from there on.

In his address, State BJP president Tapir Gao said youth are the future leaders of the party and the state. He urged them to play their roles seriously and think of themselves as the future of the state and country. The State BJP President also appealed to the youth wing to spread awareness in all the corners of the state about the 66 developmental schemes launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the benefit of the people.

Speaking on the theme of "Panchayati Raj situation in Arunachal Pradesh", Textile, Handicrafts and Cooperation Minister Tamiyo Taga said that role of the panchayat bodies in implementation of the various developmental programmes envisaged by the Modi government is very important as many of the schemes are designed to be implemented by the local bodies.

Stating that the 2018 panchayat election is very important for BJP, Taga suggested for a survey on the political situation of the state at the grassroots level by the party youth wing. He further said strategy for 2018 Panchayat election should be made based on the finding of survey report. He also emphasized that 80 percent of the party youths should be in fray for the panchayat election.

Sourav Sidkar, National Secretary, BJYM, appealed to BJYM members to reach out to the people in the state to sensitise them about the initiatives of Modi government while P. Somojit Singh, Arunachal Pradesh in-charge BJYM and President, BJYM, Manipur, stressed on building a robust youth wing in Arunachal Pradesh for furthering the mission of BJP.

Among others, BJP MLA Laisam Simai, former state BJP presidents Tangor Tapak and Tapen Siga, BJYM state President Taring Tiri and general secretary Ram Tajo also spoke on the occasion.

A large number of BJP leaders including MLA Tage Taki, state BJP vice president Dominic Tadar, secretary Doni Nich, party media secretary Nalong Mize attended the second day of the BJYM executive meet.

Act East Policy !

Flights Of Fantasy

Group Captain M Panging

VM (Retd)

North East India, which compromises eight per cent of India’s total area and just four percent of its total population, has remained on the periphery of mainstream India’s development plans. North East India is one of the least industrialised regions of the country.

Even 69 years after Independence four of the seven state capitals are not connected by rail.

Three Capitals, Shillong, Kohima and Itanagar do not have proper airports.

Almost two-thirds of India’s tea production, majority of its plywood and a substantial part of its oil is produced in the region but a very small percentage of the profits are re-invested here.

As per reports, the entire Northeast has to import essential goods worth nearly Rs. 2,500 crore annually since the states in the region do not have major industries and farmers have not modernised agricultural practices.

Critical sectors like education, health care and communication are still in the primitive state in the region.

The study found out that there are more than 71,395 SSI units in the North East Region as on March 2003, which is only 2% of the total SSI units in the country.

Originally started as ‘Look East Policy’ in 1997, it was changed to “Make in North East” by DONER Minister in January 2015. Later the policy was renamed as ‘Act East Policy’ by the Prime Minister.

Under the ‘Look East Policy’, the North East Industrial Promotion Policy (NEIPP) was first announced in 1997 for a 10-year period. In 2007, a new and modified North East Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy (NEIIPP) 2007 was notified for another ten years. Incentives available under NEIIPP 2007 include excise duty exemption, subsidy on capital investment, subsidy on plants and machinery, power subsidy and transport subsidy.

However in 2014, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, suspended NEIIPP with effect from December 2014. The reason given was that the burgeoning subsidy bill has led the Centre to suspend the North East Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy (NEIIPP). NEIIPP remains suspended till date.

There was also talk of revision of the Special Category Status for few North Eastern States wherein all states of North East India were provided assistance in the ratio of 90:10 for Central schemes.

As per various estimates, suspension of the NEIIPP has led to uncertainty in investments to the tune Rs 30,000 crores at various stages of implementation in North East India. The trade associations in North East claimed that NEIIPP had played a major role in attracting whatever little investment that was made in the North East. But with the suspension of the policy, it would not only affect the industries but also have an adverse impact on the economy of the entire region and at least Rs. 30,000 crores invested in various projects which is at various stages of implementation in the entire region are at stake. In addition, it would lead to increase in unemployment in the region with its associated side effects like terrorism, anti-national acts, crime etc.

Policies promulgated to foster and support new industries and development in North East India must be strengthened. Suspension of NEIIPP should be revoked at the earliest to help in development of North East to bring the region at par with the mainland. The central govt must follow its own declared policy of ‘Act East Policy’ in letter and spirit.

Yukar Tachak wins gold

ITANAGAR, Dec 03: Upcoming weightlifter Yukar Tachak, the younger brother of Yukar Sibi, made Arunachal proud by winning two gold and four silver medals in the 12th Youth and 53rd Junior National Weightlifting Championship 2016 held in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha.

Participating in below 62 kg in youth championship, Tachak won 1 gold and 2 silver medals.

He bagged three more medals from the junior championship by winning 1 gold in snatch and 2 silver medals for Arunachal.

He lifted a total of 252 Kg (Snatch--112 Kg + Clean & Jerk--140 Kg).

Another Arunachalee lifter Dambi Umpai has won two bronze medals-- one bronze each from the Youth and Junior championships by lifting 100 Kg in snatch.

Meanwhile, Arunachalee lifter Techi Nadam (48 Kg) remained in 5th position and Tadar Agung (56 Kg) remained in the 4th position in the opening day of the competitions.

Legal awareness camp organized

ITANAGAR, Dec 3: A two-day long legal awareness camp was organized by the District Legal Service Authority for the students, members of women based-organizations and GBs of Tuting at Kabang Ghar (Community hall) and Govt. Higher Secondary School respectively.

On the first day of the camp held at ADC Kabang Ghar, JMFC-cum-Civil Judge who is also DLSA Member Secretary, Habung Tangu briefed the participants about access to justice for all under Legal Service Authority Act, 1987.

Organizing secretary of the camp, Oson Mibang also briefed the participants about the functions of District Legal Services Authority while, resource persons including, advocates Akoying Tekseng, Apang Jongkey, Tapang Tabing and Oyem Panyang explained about the concepts of the law regarding Section 125 CrPC, offences against women under IPC, legal aid clinic which offer free legal assistance, child rights in India, Arunachal Pradesh Victim Compensation Scheme 2011,

Assam frontier (Adm. of justice) Regulation 1945, Consumer Protection Act 1986, Right to Information Act, 2005 NDPS and MV Act. The camp was followed by interaction between the participants and the resource persons.

"Drugs And Substance Abuse Among Adults And The Aged"

[ Dr. Hage Tabyo ]

Use and abuse of substances such as Cigarettes, Alcohol, and even illegal Drugs may begin in childhood or the teen years which can continue unabated throughout adult life of a man as the addiction sets in.

What does "Drugs and Substance Abuse" mean?

Most drugs and other chemical substances are usually helpful for the body when used properly. But unfortunately, the misuse of medications and drugs both legal and illegal, as well as alcohol and tobacco--is a growing endemic problem of the society specially among youths as well as the older population. The terms- "drug abuse" or "substance abuse" is defined as the use of chemical substances that lead to an increased risk of problems and an inability to control the use of the substance.

Dependence on a drug or alcohol (getting "hooked") is particularly dangerous in older people because older adults tend to have more harmful effects from these substances than younger people. These effects include mental problems, kidney and liver diseases, and injuries from falls. Dependence can occur in older people even who have never had an addiction problem before.

Many older adults take a lot of different medications every day. These drugs may interact in a harmful way, or react with alcohol in the case of an alcoholic to cause problems. These problems might be mistakenly thought of as normal signs of aging, but they are not.

With some drugs your body needs increasingly higher doses to get the original effect, or you may feel withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped. This is referred to as drug "tolerance" meaning that the drug makes your body change in these ways. Even small doses of certain substances may be enough to create a dangerous need for more.

Also a drug that is beneficial when first prescribed may become harmful when other drugs are added, or when there is a change in your health.

Many different organ systems can be damaged by substance abuse and substance abuse has a big effect on society as well. Substance abuse has negative effects on how you feel about yourself, how you manage problems or changes in your life, and your relationships. This can add to other challenges that are common in later life.

The Most Common Types of Drug and Substance Abuse (DSA)

Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medication Abuse

Among older adults, prescription, over-the-counter medications, and alcohol are commonly misused. Addiction to nicotine (cigarette, pipe, or cigar smoking) is also common problem. Commonly misused drugs include anxiety pills, sleeping medications, and pain medications.

Some older adults also abuse illegal drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, hallucinogens, and injected narcotics particularly those Indians exposed to an environment elsewhere or abroad earlier. Some people misuse more than one substance even.

Many older adults who become addicted to drugs also have another serious medical condition, such as chronic pain or a mental illness.

The most common DSA among adults in our society are :

A) Alcohol

B) Tobacco

A) Alcohol Abuse

For men and women over the age of 65 years, the amount of alcohol considered to increase health risks is either more than 7 standard drinks per week on an average, or more than 3 drinks on any day. A standard drink is defined as 12 grams of alcohol, 5 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof spirits (i.e, containing 80% alcohol). Frequent drinking can:

* cause serious illness, especially stomach and liver problems

* increase risk of stroke

* worsen other medical conditions

* interfere with needed medications, including warfarin

* greatly decrease overall quality of life

* increase falls and injuries

* impair sleep

* impair memory

Also, any drinking that is linked to mental or physical problems, or the potential for accidents (drinking and driving) is considered a problem drinking. Particularly trouble is the potential for harmful interactions between alcohol and medications (prescribed or over the-the-counter), especially medications that affect the brain, such as medications for anxiety and depression.

B) Tobacco Abuse

Tobacco abuse includes cigarette, bidi, khaini, pipe or cigar smoking. Smoking is the cause of many serious heart and lung diseases, as well as cancer. It also makes many diseases, such as diabetes, more complicated and disabling.

Studies reveal that tobacco kills more people annually than AIDS, alcohol, other drug addictions & accidents put together. Smoking tobacco suppresses hunger & causes many ailments including death (ultimately). Tobacco contains more than 7,000 different toxic chemicals , 60 of which can cause cancer. Nicotine is a severely addictive substance/ drug found in tobacco. Smoking increases the heart rate & blood pressure. It makes the heart work harder because it constricts blood vessels and thereby reducing blood flow to many vital organs of human body. Tar, another ingredient of tobacco, coats the lungs like soot in a chimney making it harder to breathe. Carbon monoxide gas present in tobacco smoke makes the heart beat faster & the gas takes the place of oxygen in the blood. The ability of blood to deliver oxygen to various body tissues is thereby curtailed as a result. Smoking delivers nicotine to the brain in just eight seconds. This explains why the new smoker gets trapped so easily to the habit of smoking tobacco. Tobacco is responsible for 90% of all lung cancer, 75% of chronic bronchitis & emphysema ( lung diseases).

Smoking today is simply an invitation by the smoker for adverse health consequences of his body for tomorrow -its a crystal clear fact.

It is also noteworthy that the second hand smoker or passive smoker ( who actually does not but is exposed to the smoke) has also the risk of lung cancer.

How Common Are Drugs And Substance Abuse Problems?

Misuse of alcohol or other drugs is a common cause of physical and mental health problems in average Indians, especially older men. Rates of illegal drug use and dependence are lower in the older population than in younger people. But other types of substance abuse, such as inappropriate use of prescription and over-the-counter (non-prescription) medicines, are increasing.

About three out of five older adults take painkillers regularly. More than one in five take a medication that affects their central nervous system and about 11% take sleeping pill or other type of sedative. Older women are much more likely to use sleeping pill than men.

Nearly 50 percent of adults over the age of 65 years consume alcohol. Among these, 14.5 percent drink more than the recommended weekly allowance (more than 7 drinks per week) or drink in binges. When accounting for older adults' other medical problems, a survey classified 53 percent of the older drinkers as having harmful or hazardous drinking patterns. (Dr. Hage Tabyo is retired Director of Family Welfare, Govt. of A.P.)

Day-3 of Army Recruitment Rally witnesses huge turn up

AALO, Dec 3: The day three of Army Recruitment Rally held at 1 Bihar Regiment Ground on Saturday witnessed a larger turn up of around 900 aspirants from Siang, East Siang, West Siang, Upper Siang, Kra Daadi and Naharlagun

The physical tests for all candidates will be completed on Saturday itself and a team of doctors from Indian Army will conduct the medical tests for those candidates, who have already completed the physical tests.

The senior officers from Branch Recruiting Centre Jorhat are making all out efforts to select fit and eligible candidates across the state of Arunachal with assistance of Commanding Officer 1Bihar Regiment, Col D.K. Panwar, Major MK Khati, representatives from Civil administration, Circle Officer Lijum Ete, medical, Police and teachers. DIPRO

Awareness on greenery conducted at geology and mining office

ITANAGAR, Dec 3: The All Arunachal Pradesh Youth Welfare Association in association with the department of geology and mining conducted a mass awareness campaign for cleaner and greener environment cum plantation drive in the premises of geology and mining office, Chandranagar here on Saturday.

It is understood that 100 trees remove upto 5 tonnes of CO2, 400 pounds of Ozone and 300 pounds of small particulate matters, so the tree plantation in the office premise was done in order to make it more green and free from atmospheric pollution, the association informed.

Meanwhile appealing state government to encourage tree plantation in the premises of government establishments to combat global warming issues and to make the surroundings clean, it said that the step will play a crucial role in reducing global warming by decreasing the initiation of green house gases.

Krishi Shiksha Diwas observed

DIRANG, Dec 3: Krishi Shiksha Diwas was observed at ICAR-National Research Centre on Yak, Dirang with an aim to create awareness about agriculture and allied sectors among the youth here on Saturday.

Students from different schools of Dirang circle took part in the programme wherein, KVK, West Kameng Programme Coordinator, Dr. N D Singh explained to the students about the role of agriculture for supporting the nutrition and livelihood of the masses. He also stressed on water harvesting and multiple cropping system to enhance the production.

ICAR-NRC on Yak, Dirang Principal Scientist and incharge Director, Dr. D Bhattacharya in his address also emphasized on the need to adopt organic farming for safe food production.

The students were educated about the importance of agriculture through showcasing of different technologies like integrated farming system, pisciculture, vermicomposting, organic agriculture and importance of soil testing by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, West Kameng.

Earlier, a drawing competition was also organized amongst the students on the themes 'Integrated Farming System' and 'Save Environment'.

APADSU appeals for GMDO recruitment through APPSC

ITANAGAR, Dec 3: The members of Arunachal Pradesh Ayurvedic Doctor and Students Union (APADSU) appealed to the Commissioner, Department of Health & Family Welfare to conduct the recruitment of General Duty Medical Officer (GDMO), AYUSH through Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC).

APADSU questioned the state govt. on why it was planning to regularize the contractual medical officers (AYUSH) instead of conducting fair examination through APPSC like last time. Induction of 8 cadets for the post of GDMO (AYUSH) through APPSC was being held in the year 2015-2016. Is it legal to regularize a contractual officer (AYUSH) without conducting any exam for a gazetted post, the union questioned.

The union argued that regularization of the GDMO (AYUSH) must be purely made through examination conducted by APPSC directly and not through NRHM and any other processes. The post for GDMO (AYUSH) is a gazetted post and to recruit such post, protocol of induction should be standardized i.e. by conducting written and viva voice examination through APPSC.

APADSU also mentioned that regularization of contractual medical officer (AYUSH) without conducting any written and viva voice examination may not be legally right as it is clearly mentioned on the advertisement and appointment letter of any contractual m.o to not demand for regularization of their post in near future.

Recruitment for the post of medical officer (AYUSH) through APPSC will enable every medical graduate and post-graduate to have equal right and opportunity to appear and get selected through fair means.

Further, APADSU hoped that the exam will be conduct through the commission for the greater interest of the state and doctors as a whole.

Indigenous Faith Day celebrated across West Siang

AALO Dec 3: Indigenous Faith Day was celebrated across West Siang with traditional pomp and gaiety from November 30 to December 2.

At Aalo: former Minister Doi Ado, who chaired the celebration at Gumin Kiin on December 1, appealed to all to preserve their indigenous faith and culture to keep identity intact.

DPDTC president Pakjum Ete threw light on Donyi Poloism and activities taken up to start Donyi Polo Gamgis in different parts of the district. The Swamiji of R.K. Mission and other tribes dwelling in Aalo Townsip also took part in the daylong celebration. A procession was also taken out in the main thoroughfare of the Aalo town.

At Darka, the occasion was attended by Commandant ITBP SK Joshi, DIPRO Gijum Tali and Dr. Linya Lollen of General Hospital.

In his peech, Joshi said that tribal faith, beliefs and culture are rich and unique. He assured that the age-old relationship with the people of Darka people will be maintained and whatever is possible from his side will be done for the interest of Darka people.

Dr. Lollen appealed to all to take pride in its own faith and worship that has been our guiding principle from time immemorial.

Senior citizens of Darka village Liya Ete, Nyajum Padu and others also spoke about the significance of celebration of Donyi Polo Day.

Procession, prize distribution, traditional dances were highlights of the two day long programme.

At Yomcha, the three-day-long circle level celebration of Indigenous Faith Day organized by Donyi Polo Gamgi Yomcha concluded on December 2.

Speaking on the occasion, Jarter Gamlin Ronya ZPM Liromoba, Peken Yomcha DF&CSO and Gijum Tali DIPRO appreciated the noble effort of all Donyi Polo Gamgis from Liromoba, Yomcha, Keak and Kamba to congregate at Yomcha to celebrate the joyous occasion jointly.

"This kind of spirit and attitude by the believers of Donyi Faith will go a long way to promote and propagate our indigenous faith and culture," they opined.

Resource person Tabin Karlo and Yide Potom highlighted on the concept of Donyi Poloism and tribal ways of life through the ages.

The President Donyi Polo Gamgi Yomcha, Priests and other senior members also spoke on the occasion. DIPRO

2nd Winter Cup T20 begins at Tawang

[ Tawang Vigilance ]

TAWANG, Dec 3: The second edition of the district level Winter Cup T20 Cricket Tournament kicked off at High Altitude Sports Stadium here on Saturday.

Kitpi ZPM Sherap, who attended the inaugural function, appealed to the players to play the game with true sportsman's spirit. He lauded the efforts of Lumla MLA and Parliamentary Secretary (RWD) Jambey Tashi and Tawang MLA Tsering Tashi for boosting sports in Mon region by encouraging such sports activities.

Mukto Anchal chairperson Namgey Tsering also attended the function.

Later, Bomja United thrashed season 1 runners up Jang Sports Club by 7 wickets in the inaugural match.

Tsering Wangdi of Bomja United, who scored an unbeaten 63 runs, was adjudged the man of the match.

Earlier Jang Sports Club skipper Rinchin Neema (44 run) missed his half century.

13 teams are in the fray for the top honours in the tournament organized by Mon Tawang Vigilance and sponsored by Parliamentary Secretary for RWD Jambey Tashi and Tawang MLA Tsering Tashi.

AR jawan killed, two injured in ambush

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Dec 3: An Assam Rifle jawan was reportedly killed and two others severely injured when their convoy was ambushed by suspected NSCN-K militants between Lolchang and Ninu village, 25 KM away from Longding town around 2:30 PM on Friday.

The district administration sources informed The Arunachal Times, that the incident occurred when two convoy of 16th Assam Rifle was going to their Wakka Camp. The ill-fated convoy carrying truck-full of jawans was ambushed by the suspected militants. The injured jawans have been immediately evacuated to hospital in Assam, the sources informed. However, the rank of the slain jawan is yet to be known as the Assam Rifle authority refused to give details information on the incident.

Workshop on sanitation

ITANAGAR, Nov 03: The PHE & WS Division Likabali conducted a block level workshop on management of rural water supply and sanitation at Bango Dere, Likabali.

B. Nomuk, EE, PHE & WS Division Likabali highlighted the importance of maintaining good water and sanitation in our daily life. He appealed to all to participate in building clean and healthy nation as Swachh Bharat Mision (G) has at present become the top priority Flagship Programme in our country.

M. Tatu, AE PHE & WS Sub-Division Likabali, explained the role and responsibilities of VWSCs in operation and maintenance of water supply in rural areas through PowerPoint.

He called upon the PRI members to actively motivate people for achieving Open Defecation Free (ODF) status to all villages and then GPs by constructing Individual Household Latrines (IHHLs).

He explained about the importance of SLWMs in our rural areas.

While briefing on IMIS online reporting system Goto Ete, Consultant appealed to the PRI members to avoid duplicity in submitting the beneficiaries' details for construction of IHHLs.

During the Workshop, success video stories on SBM (G) which were implemented in many villages of Likabali block, prepared by consultants Keli Basar & Marpi Kamsi were also shown to the participants.

For water quality monitoring at village level, training on Field Testing kits (FTKs) was also conducted and demonstrated to the PRI Members by Lab. Astts. Tanya Kena and Mobi Nyorak.

FTKs were also distributed to the PRI members. Altogether, 56 persons took part in the day long Workshop.

All the Gram Chairpersons and Anchal Samati Members of Likabali Block were invited to participate in the Workshop.

PPA leaders react

ITANAGAR, Dec 3: Claiming that the PPA party executive members have unanimously supported the party whip in his decision for termination of two PPA ZPMs in connection with the No Confidence Motion held in Kurung Kumey district recently, a group of PPA leaders have strongly reacted and opposed the press statement of PPA president urging the Kurung Kumey DC not to take action against two PPA ZPMs. They also urged the Kurung Kumey DC take action against the two ZPMs saying "there is no revocation letter against the termination of two ZPMs."

The PPA leaders including general secretary, Tame Papuk, who was also appointed as party whip in connection of no confidence motion, in a joint press statement, claimed that "the party did not convene any executive meeting for the issue of non-application of whip nor was there any letter from party headquarters in this regard.

They further sought immediate intervention of the PPA CWC chairman in this regard.

SCCZ receives 'A' Grade

ITANAGAR, Dec 3: Saint Claret College, Ziro has been accredited with Grade "A" with a cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.02, by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

This is the first time an institute of higher education in Arunachal Pradesh has been accredited with "A" Grade in the very first cycle of quality assessment and accreditation.

The SCCZ is the only private college in the State to have completed the process of accreditation.

Saint Claret College had received accreditation from NAAC in May 2015. However, the stakeholders were left dissatisfied with the modus operandi of the visit by the then Peer Team. Being convinced that the college deserved a much more comprehensive and fair assessment as per the NAAC protocol, SCCZ appealed to NAAC for a review. NAAC admitted the review appeal and ordered a re-visit by a fresh team, which took place from November 10-12, 2016.

Currently, Arunachal Pradesh has nine institutes of higher education that have been accredited, of which eight are governmental institutions; and SCCZ is the only private college in the list.

KVK training on poultry farming

ITANAGAR, Dec 3: KVK, Lohit (Namsai) organized a two days training programme on poultry farming and distribution backyard poultry bird Banaraja at Naputia village under Chongkham circle on December 2 sponsored by ICAR-NRC on Yak, under TSP fund.

The farmers were trained on poultry farming practices and management of poultry disease, wherein the farmers were also shown film on poultry farming.

3000 poultry birds have been distributed to 30 beneficiaries of 24 villages of the district.

The main objective of the distribution of poultry bird was to popularise the backyard poultry farming and to improve the livelihood of the local people.

A total 32 trainees of 24 villages, namely Simulbari, Dharampur, Guhain Gaon, Namsai, Kumari Khampti, Khowji, New Mohong, Kumsung, Changli, Samuguri, Jaipur, Mahaloni, Podumoni, Manna, Manmow, Sengsup, Momong, Namliang, Manmow Tissue, Empong, Emphum, Kheram, Alubari, Naputia along with GB, Chair-person, ASM of attended the programme.