December 10
2016
Uncertainty continues to haunt airport project
Project affected land owners demand compensation for lost period
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Dec 9: The fate of proposed Greenfield Airport at Hollongi is apparently heading towards uncertainty following the letter written by Chief Secretary Shakuntala D Gamlin to Secretary, Civil Aviation, Rajiv Nayan Choubey, government of India on 22nd June, 2016, wherein the Chief Secretary suggested the Civil Aviation ministry that technical team be constituted to assess the Techno-Economic feasibility of both locations (Banderdewa -Karsingsa and Hollongi).
It is reported that technical expertise team has arrived in the Capital and reassessed the proposed sites. This would be the third times that the higher authority is assessing the feasibilities of the proposed sites for green field airport.
Reacting at Chief Secretary's letter, Greenfield Airport Land Affected Peoples Forum of Hollongi on Friday demanded the state government to pay the compensation amount for ‘lost damage period’ of five years to land owners. The Forum alleged that the state government is deliberately attempting to shift the proposed Green Field Airport from Hollongi, thus prolonging the airport project in the state Capital.
Addressing the press conference at Press Club here, the Forum President Nera Techi claimed that land owners of the proposed Greenfield Airport are being sandwiched between bureaucratic negativism and the state government inertia to build the airport in the state Capital.
"We did not ask civil aviation ministry and state government to propose airport at Hollongi. They did it on their own and we supported project in the best interest of state. Why are we being punished for no fault of ours? It's been five years the land owners are not allowed to cultivate their land by the district administration. If at all government wants to shift the airport again, they should first pay for ‘lost damage period of five years’ that costs around Rs 200 crore approximately," Nera added.
Terming Chief Secretary's letter as an anti-airport development, the Forum General Secretary Likha Taji stated that airport is secondary issue for the landowners saying that the Chief Secretary's letter has raised question over the very existing of their land and properties. Taji claimed that Chief Secretary in her letter erroneously mentioned Magoni River to Changmara River area as under Chakma settlement land while overlooking the real land owners.
"Whether it was planned and unplanned letter she (CS) failed to recognize the community (the actual land owners) in her letter," Taji said.
He added that CS also overlooked the High Court order by recommending re-study of feasibilities of the areas by choosing, what he termed, handpicks officers headed by Airport Authority of India along with Chief Engineer Highways East Zone and West Zone, Arunachal and representative from Ministry of DoNER.
"How come the CS can make unmeasured letter to Government of India, telling that from Magoni to Changmara there is only Chakma settlers" he said while adding it appears the government of Arunachal is in no mood to build airport. He further said that Chief Secretary's statement in her letter without knowing the facts and figures is highly questionable. Taji alleged that Chief Secretary has attempted to shift the airport from Hollongi telling the airport authority of India that government of Arunachal Pradesh will donate free land instead of Hollongi.
The proposed Greenfield Airport at Hollongi has been at the centre of controversy ever since the Centre decided to shift it from Banderdewa (Karsingsa) to Hollongi. Then Governor J P Rajkhowa allegedly had written to Prime Minister's Office favoring Lilabari airport (Assam) to upgrade instead building airport at Hollongi.
Meanwhile, a team of officials from Airport Authority of India (AAI), ministries of civil aviation, Road Transport and Highway, DoNER which arrived on Wednesday reportedly inspected both Karsingsa and Hollongi Green Field Airport sites. The team is believed to have left this evening. Strangely the state government kept everyone in dark about the visit.
AAPSU opposes relaxation of criteria for teacher recruitment
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Dec 9: The All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) has strongly opposed the state cabinet's recent decision to relax the existing criteria of 90-10 ratio for APST and Non-APST to 50-50 ratio in teacher recruitment process stating that it is not in the interest of the students of state.
Addressing media persons at the Press Club here on Friday, AAPSU President, Hawa Bagang said the GoAP's said decision lacks foresight and is not in the interest of the state's huge number of qualified students whose chances to get recruited to the education department have been hampered with the said decision.
Earlier, on Thursday, during a meeting of the state government led by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, had made the decision to relax the existing criteria of 90-10 ratio for APST and Non-APST to 50-50 ratio basis considering the acute shortage of subject teachers like Science and Mathematics in different schools of the state.
Bagang has strongly opposed to the decision and urged the GoAP to revoke the decision at the earliest. 'There is no dearth of qualified persons in the state,
instead of changing the recruitment process the state government should first change the flawed recruitment policies and corrupt practices in the department itself', he pointed out.
AAPSU Vice president (Protocol), Tayuk Sonam has also appealed to the GoAP to take into consideration the interest of the hundreds of qualified and deserving candidates who have currently applied for the post of the PGTs and TGTs.
Meanwhile, the Union has also strongly objected to the government's decision to make Aadhar card compulsory for disbursement of stipends to the students. Currently, the state's educational institutes and directorate of higher and technical education have also made it mandatory for students to have Aadhar card with them to avail stipend.
"Even the Supreme Court of India has in its decision clearly stated that Aadhar card scheme is purely voluntary and cannot be made mandatory. Also most of the students in interior areas have not been covered by Aadhar and it will be tragic to deny them stipend because of this decision," said AAPSU General Secretary Tobom Dai. He urged the state government not to implement the same in the larger interest of the state's student community.
Fund not a problem for development, says Pema
PANGIN, Dec 9: Chief Minister Pema Khandu in his maiden visit to Pangin on Friday said that funds for development activities won't be a hindrance. The state cabinet has decided on a separate fund provision for it, the chief minister said as he promised that the new district headquarter of Siang district will be made fully functional within short time. He further promised that the state government will release final notification within two months for establishing the district headquarters for Siang district. He appealed the people to come to amicable solution in their choice for district headquarters.
Addressing a public meeting, Chief Minister said that since Arunachal is a big state, creation of more districts to bring government closer to the people is a good step. "I favour creation of new districts though I understand that it has huge financial liabilities," he said and informed that about 4-5 such demands are still pending, which will be examined in the cabinet soon.
Observing that Siang district is rich in agriculture and horticulture sector, the Chief Minister assured that state government will frame policy to provide better marketing access to the farmers.
He also called for the district to explore more on avenues like tourism and hydropower declaring that any developmental activities that are culturally, environmentally and demographically harmful will never be encouraged.
Informing on major initiatives being taken by state government for development, the Chief Minister said that a special package from centre is being awaited, for which the government had already submitted a proposal. Also the state government has released Rs 2200 crore through State Development Council (SDC) to the departments.
The Chief Minister also appreciated the bold decision of his advisor, Tapang Taloh for having sacrificed his ministerial post, which, he said, was done for the larger interest of the state. Khandu appreciated the gesture as an expression of confidence shown by him to see a stable government under his leadership.
In his speech, Home Minister Waii called on people of Arunachal, especially from Abotani belt to find ways to resolve conflicts peacefully and conduct themselves so that development is not hampered. Comparing Tawang with Abotani belt, he said though Tawang has difficult terrain, central government officials prefer to visit that place just because people are highly hospitable there. The Minister said people need to rethink on their conduct and not make atmosphere difficult for development to come.
The Education Minister Honchun Ngandam briefed on centre- state relation and said the relation is growing stronger each day. He also informed of recent state government release of Rs 53 crore for SSA teachers. The public meeting also witnessed colourful cultural dances presented by school children of KGBV and Govt Higher Secondary School, Pangin.
Also speaking on occasion, Panchayati Raj & Rural Development Minister Tanga Byaling and Parliamentary Secretary Home Pani Taram appreciated Taloh's leadership and credited him on creation of Siang district.
Later Khandu inspected the construction of a motorable suspension bridge over Siang River in between BRTF road and Komsing village at Sangam point. The 225 metre bridge named as Nugong bridge was envisaged to provide road connectivity to the historically important village of Komsing and to other villages of Nugong Banggo, which remains unconnected as situated on left bank of Siang river.
The foundation stone for the bridge was laid by former Chief Minister, late Dorjee Khandu in 2008 and funded by DONER. Since then due to delay in funds from the centre, the project remained unfinished escalating the project costs.
In his discussion with the officials of the PWD - the executing agency, the Chief Minister assured his commitment for completion of the bridge, due to historical importance of Komsing village and its relevance to Ango -Abor war, and also since the bridge will connect 1 circle and 8 villages.
He also announced later in a public gathering at Pangin, that the state government will meet up all fund gaps required for the bridge and assured that the matter will be discussed on how to meet up the gaps and through which head to be funded.
Siang adventure cum cultural fest begins
YINGKIONG, Dec 9: The Week-long Siang Adventure cum Cultural Festival began at Yingkiong on Friday with drawing competition among students at Govt. Higher Secondary School, Yingkiong.
The main events of the festival would be Army Adventure Challenge Cup which includes rowing and rafting competition at Siang, cycling and marathon race.
The football tournament among the selected football teams will begin on Saturday and the winner (finalist) will play the final match against the Army Team.
Rafting and rowing experts from Indian Army from across the country are expected to compete in the event. DIPRO
Preparation for Orange Fest reviewed
ROING, Dec 9: To ensure smooth conduct of the ensuing four days Organge Festival at Dambuk in Lower Dibang Valley district, Deputy Commissioner Deepak Shinde gave emphasis on putting in all arrangement well before the time.
In a meeting on Friday, the DC reviewed security arrangement, water supply, maintenance and cleaning of roads, accommodation for security personnel and visitors. He called upon all HoDs and stakeholders to be proactive for successful conduct of the festival being held from December 15 to 18.
With regards to entry of visitors and ILP issues, the DC informed that he has already written to East Siang Deputy Commissioner to provide all necessary assistance and set up special ILP counter at Ruksin Check gate.
Highlighted on the previous two edition of the festival, STS GM Abu Tayeng informed that a huge number of visitors from across the country and abroad are expected to participate in this year's festival, wherein renowned international artistes will perform. He sought full cooperation from all to make the festival a grand success.
Dambuk ADC Atul Tayeng briefed on tentative programme of the festival and informed that orange festival at Dambuk is an annual mega adventure event participated by major rock bands and leading automobile companies displaying action sports events.
The third edition of the orange festival will witness off-roading competition, Orange 4x4 Fury, TDS Rally Championship etc and performance of international metal guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen.
Chief Minister, Deputy CM and other dignitaries are expected to attend the festival this year.
All HoDs of the district headquarters attended the meeting. DIPRO
Itanagar- Kamba bus service flagged off
ITANAGAR, Dec 09: State Transport (APST) bus service between Itanagar and Kamba was flagged jointly by Parliamentary Secretary (Sports and Youth Affairs) Nyamar Karbak and senior citizen of Kamba circle Gumde Karbak here on December 8.
"In fact, Introduction of new bus service and its flagging off is not big news; but for constituency like ours, it assumes significance as the bus service will provide great relief to the people," said Parliamentary Secretary Karbak.
He appealed to the public to cooperate with the staff of the bus and the station superintendent.
Station Superintendent Tuter Dulom also appealed to the public to take care of the bus as their own property and also suggested them not to carry any objectionable items in the bus.
The flagging off ceremony was also attended by Tojo Karga, IPS, Deli Kambu EE RWD, among others.
Gabriel urges people to be proactive
ITANAGAR, Dec 09: Reminding the people that government sponsored schemes are not freebies and calling upon the need to be proactive in ushering in a changed scenario vis a vis development of the society, Kanubari legislator Gabriel D. Wangsu urged the people to be self reliant by adopting scientific and systematic cultivation of cash crops and other agri-horticulture crops.
Sustainable economic development is key to meaningful sustenance of life and its more applicable to the tribal societies, he said during his whirlwind tour to various villages of Kanubari sub division of Longding district recently.
During the month-long tour, the MLA visited Lawnu, Ranglua, Tanglam Rusa, Otongkhua, Luaksim, Dahsatong, Mopakhat, Olingtong etc. and pleaded with the people to lend cooperation and all support to the officials in all respects for hassle-free development processes.
A new sub centre was also inaugurated at Naitong and the MLA also oversaw the progress of construction of a new road from Longding-Bimlapur road at Shiajakhet to Tisa river bank and sought cooperation of all for early completion of the vital road.
Attending the Lower Wancho Catholic convention at Ranlamri, the MLA spelt out his priorities for various villages of Kanubari, Lawnu and Chubam blocks and assured to do his best for road, electricity and water supply in each village.
Accompanied by officials of various departments Wangsu shared his visions and missions for the people and fervently appealed the people to shift to new locations at the foothill areas. Identifying Recharim, Waisho, Wantong, Luktham-Kaikoi, Tanthamshia, Arab-Techah, Okai-Maktak, Laho-Lakoi etc as potential areas for sustainable development, he explained the need to understand the market forces and hence improve agricultural productivity.
After a marathon meeting and discussions with the villagers and officials of the Coffee Board of India at Longhua village, the MLA visited the proposed land for cultivation of coffee. He convinced the villagers to leave the traditional Jhum cultivation and start coffee plantation for which a nursery is being raised shortly. He also encouraged the villagers to focus on fisheries, cultivation of cardamom, black pepper, areca nut etc.
The MLA also met the SHGs and farmers at Mopakhat farm areas where mustard and potato cultivation were massively undertaken and encouraged the villagers to further enhance their knowledge about agricultural production of various crops for which he assured all out support.
Wangsu also took a meeting with all the HoDs and officials of various departments and reviewed the progress of all works. He also appealed the officers to regularly monitor the progress of all sanctioned works and ensure timely implementation and work quality.
Attending the Inter-Village Exposure of the NERCORMP at Hahshe Rusa the legislator urged the villagers not to compromise with work quality and take up all NERCORMP projects seriously. Saying that NERCORMP schemes are not freebies, he advocated taking up schemes which are sustainable and those which could help people improve their economic conditions.
District coordination committee meeting on PMSMA held at Changlang, Aalo
ITANAGAR, Dec 9: The District Health Society Changlang conducted District Coordination Committee meeting cum Orientation of In-charge Medical Officers of various health facilities for implementing Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) under the chairmanship of SDO, Changlang Nampang Wangjen at DC's conference hall, Changlang on Friday.
Terming mass awareness and wide publicity among pregnant women as vital for successful implementation of the programme, the SDO advised medical officers to work in close coordination with other key departments. Assuring full cooperation from the district Administration, he further advised them to involve key departments like ICDS, PHE & WS, Education and PRI Members during programme to ensure delivery of services to all the beneficiaries.
Project Director, Changlang Talo Jerang asked the health officers to coordinate with the concerned Administrative Officers in listing the pregnant women so that no beneficiary is left out.
Earlier, DMO, Changlang Dr Karrik Basar in his key note address informed that the programme is launched with an objective to boost the on-going health care facilities for the pregnant women, especially the poor.
Under the PMSMA, the pregnant ladies will be given health check up, required treatments and several tests including blood pressure, sugar level, weight, haemoglobin tests and Doctors will use stickers of red and green colours depending upon the kind of care the pregnant women need to ensure quality ante natal care and lower mortality rate, he added. He deliberately explained PMSMA through Power Point presentation
Medical Superintendent Dr H Tangjang, MO Dr T Khimhun also spoke on the occasion.
At Aalo, District Level PMSMA Coordination Meeting was held under the Chairmanship of EAC Liyi Bagra at DC's Conference Hall. Speaking on the occasion, Bagra urged all to work together to ensure safety of mother and baby by launching the programme in a joint and cohesive manner.
DMO Dr Marbom Basar, MS General Hospital Dr L Lollen, DD ICDS L Singhpho spoke in detail about the programme and urged all the health workers to ensure PW examine by Doctor/ Gynaecologist, and even private and army doctors to fill up the shortages of doctors.
Convergence of health and ICDS at every level is quite essential for its success.
Dr K Ori DFWO outlined the brief features of PMSMA. (DIPROs)
Flawless internet connectivity is required to make cashless transaction effective: Pema
ITANAGAR, Dec 9: "Network service providers have a major role to play to make the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi a reality," said Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday after launching 4G network of Vodaphone here in a glittering function at Dree Ground.
While strongly advocating the master stroke of Prime Minister on demonetisation, Khandu said that corruption and terrorism can only be contained by adopting cashless transaction. In order to materialise cashless transaction, a seamless internet connectivity is required which is being provided by the network service providers, Khandu reasoned. He further added that Information technology will be the driving force to change the face of the country.
He congratulated Vodaphone for launching 4G network and said that the network giant's move has come in the right moment when the entire country is standing with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his mission to fight corruption and terrorism. He hoped that with the launch of Vodaphone 4G, common people will be benefitted the most and that they could easily avail the online facilities from the lightening speed internet service provided by the service provider.
Khandu disclosed the gathering about Government of India's target of connecting all the gram panchayats of Arunachal Pradesh with IT services by next year. "Tough terrains with low density of road network are few immediate bottlenecks in bringing in IT connectivity in the state, but we are confident that basic common services will reach every village of the state soon as Government of India and the state Government are equally optimistic to make the digital India campaign happen in Arunachal" CM emphatically said. Among other several ministers along with Operation Director, Vodaphone India Arvind Vohra and CEO and Business head Vodaphone Northeast Alok Verma were present on the occasion.
APSCW team conducts two-day awareness programme
ITANAGAR, Dec 9: A two-day long legal awareness programme with the theme 'Bonded Labour and Child Labour, Child Marriage & Force Marriage, Domestic Violence Act.2005, Polygamy and Compulsory Marriage Registration, Maternity Benefit Act. 1961, POCSO Act 2012, Free Legal Aid and Rights of Women & Livelihood', was conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW), Itanagar at Chayang Tajo Circle, under East Kameng district from Dec 5 to 6 last.
Sponsored by the National Commission for Women, (NCW), New Delhi, the awareness programme was attended by APSCW Chairperson, Mitali Tingkhatra and Member Secretary, APSCW Itanagar, Yame Higio along with members Duma Yekar, Oter Ering Tayeng.
Addressing the gathering, APSCW Chairperson, Mitali Tingkhatra spoke about Domestic Violence Act, 2005 in details, its various provisions of the Act and the Women Helpline. She further urged the HGBs, GBs, who are the grass root level representative of the administration to impart awareness among people to shun child marriage.
Chayang Tajo ADC, Ashok Tajo in his address disclosed that bonded labour and child labour is still prevalent in East Kameng district. 'The administration has taken up many steps to free the bonded labour system but there has been little progress in this regard', he added.
Also present as resource person on the occasion was Himalayan University, Itanagar Assistant Professor, Ripe Bagra who explained the gathering about the Child Marriage Prohibition Act, 2006.
The APSCW team also visited KGBV, Chayang Tajo and interacted with the school authority and students. Member Secretary, APSCW, Itanagar, Yame Higio, Member APSCW, Duma Yekar and Oter Ering Tayeng exhorted the students to remain dedicated towards their studies and try to become good citizens.
During the two-day long programme, the APSCW team created awareness regarding Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, Compulsory Registration of Marriage, Free Legal Aid, Women Helpline and Short Stay Home provisions.
The APSCW team also visited Sangchu Sollung village and VKV Chayang Tajo and interacted with people of Puroik community including students and briefed them about the POCSO Act, 2012.
Various HoDs besides, CDPO in-charge Domte Tarh, Police personnel, members of Women Welfare Organization, Seppa and Chayang Tajo, HGBs, GBs, Gram Panchayat members and general public had attended the programmes.
Over 800 patients benefited from Lumla health camp
TAWANG, Dec 09: Over 800 patients were treated during a two days health camp at Lumla conducted by a team of doctors from RK Mission Hospital.
Spectacles at subsidized rates, free hearing aids, crutches, walking sticks, knee caps, walkers and wheel chairs were distributed to the patients. Free Hepatitis and blood sugar screening were also conducted.
35 cataract patients were detected and will be provided free cataract surgery at Tawang on December 10.
Attending the penultimate day of the camp, Jambey Tashi congratulated Eye surgeon Dr. Lobsang Tsetim of Ramakrishna Mission Hospital, Itanagar, for receiving the 'Eye Health Heroes' award- 2016 at the 10th general assembly meet of the International Agency for Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) at Durban in South Africa.
Further, he called upon the denizens to avail the splendid opportunity at their doorstep.
"Such free health camps are an initiative to provide health checkup and treatment facilities to the rural poor and to serve the society to the best of our ability and I believe that Health is the top priority and through such camps we aim to enable the society to lead a healthier life," he said, while emphasizing on drug quality over quantity.
"At a time when basic healthcare has remained unaffordable, inconvenient and beyond the reach of many, these free health camps are a tribute to every individual of the district to make life healthier and make healthcare affordable, reachable to all and has been made an annual event", he declared, to the thunderous applause of the audience.
A team of 7 specialist doctors in the field of Gynecology, Medicine, Paediatric, Dentists, ENT, Ortho and Eye conducted the health camp.
A similar 2-day free health camp was organized at PHC Lumla in May 2015.
The health camp was organized by Yuva Arunachal and Lumla Bodong Tashi Choikelling under the aegis of Parliamentary secretary for RWD and local MLA Jambey Tashi and in collaboration with Ramakrisna Mission Hospital Itanagar. (Tawang Vigilance)
Traffic advisory
ITANAGAR, Dec 9: The road from CM Bungalow to Division IV will remain closed for vehicular traffic on December 10 and 11 from 6 am to 6 pm due to re- carpeting work. DIPRO
Childline door-to-door awareness campaign
ITANAGAR, Dec 9: In a bid to create awareness, Childline Itanagar on Friday conducted door to door awareness campaign at Vivek Vihar and its adjacent areas.
Informing about various aims and objective of the Centre, it sought people's cooperation in providing for children in need of care and protection.
Govt decision to implement 7th CPC welcomed
ITANAGAR, Dec 09: The Arunachal Pradesh unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has welcomed the decision of the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) Government in Arunachal Pradesh to implement the 7th Central Pay Commission recommendation.
Terming it a bumper New Year gift to the state government employees and bold decision of the state government, State BJP president Tapir Gao appealed all the employees to reciprocate by discharging duties sincerely and diligently.
Gao also hailed the initiative of Chief Minister Pema Khandu to honor and recognize the contribution of Nabam Rungkhi, who was instrumental in making Itanagar as the state capital.
While lauding the decision of the Govt for implementation of the recommendation of the 7th CPC, the women wing of the Confederation of Service Association of Arunachal Pradesh (CoSAAP) has urged the Govt to look into the other pending demands of the Confederation at the earliest.
It further appealed to the Govt employees to discharge their duties sincerely for overall development of the state.
The Arunachal Teachers' Association (ATA) also welcomed the decision of the State Govt. for approving the implementation of 7th CPC from January 2016 and conferring Gazette status to the Post Graduate Teacher (PGT) of the state.
Terming the decision as historic, ATA hoped the decision to confer Gazette status to the PGTs would definitely heighten the spirit of teaching community.
ATA appealed to the PGTs of the state to reciprocate the government's endowment by giving quality education to the prospective human resource with dedication and sincerity.
ATA also hoped that all other un-addressed demands of the teaching community, including complete bifurcation of Secondary and Elementary education, timely conduct of DPC for all category from PRT to Joint Director level, creation of DDSE and DDEE at district, creation of SEO, sanction of Principal and HM/VP posts, modification of JT RR, single entry grade for teachers at both the directorate and the issues of SSA and RMSA teachers will be redressed instantly.
Meanwhile, Nabam Welfare Society (NWS) also welcomed the decision of State Cabinet to confer State Gold Medal Award on Rungkhi along with cash award and allotment of a plot of land.
GPC resents poor quality road works
Correspondent
ROING, Dec 9: The GPC New Elope, Gochi Dele has expressed concern regarding the PMGSY road construction from Hunli BRFT Road to New Elope and Abrango village carried out by M/s GYT Enterprise, claiming the work on the road which is the lifeline of the village and other adjoining villages, to be of substandard quality.
Dele informed that the work allotted to M/s GYT Enterprise included earth cutting of approximately 21kms and construction of culverts and breast walls of PMGSY road under the supervision of RWD Roing Division, however, only approximately 16km earth cutting has been completed till date. "The work is progressing at a snail's pace and the villagers are being deprived of a motorable road", he said.
Dele also mentioned that rules and regulations of PMGSY are being completely neglected by the construction company as the culverts, retaining and breast walls have not been constructed as per the specification and standard specified under the PMGSY norms. Crack marks are visible at many places and some parts have cracked and fallen apart, he informed. He also added that the Panchayat members had conducted a Gram Sabah on 02.10.2016 regarding providing full cooperation towards the speedy completion of the construction work and not causing any kind of disruption in the work. The GPC also submitted a letter in this regard to the DC Roing on Friday last requesting him to look into the matter.
Skill and vocational training prog
AALO, Dec 09: A month-long skill development and vocational training programme commenced at a town hotel here on Friday organized by GPTI-a training provider.
ADC Nyiken Lollen inaugurated the programme in presence of DMO Dr. Marbom Basar and Deputy Director (UD) Geto Ori, ADI, DVO and host of other dignitaries.
In their speech, ADC Lollen and DMO Basar appreciated the constant effort put in by Topu Basar Ete, the Chairman of GPTI for conducting such skill development training for the youths of the district. They advised the trainees to make best use of the training to equip themselves with skills and knowledge that will help them to be self-employed.
ADI Geto Ori informed that GPTI is a registered Society for skill development, which provides training under State Livelihood Mission (NULM) Arunachal and many other skill development training programme of Govt. of India for the benefit of unemployed youth of the state.
Demand for arrest of road damage accused pouring in
ITANAGAR, Dec 09: Pressure for arresting all the alleged accused in road and bridges (from Pongrong to Kush) damage case in Kurung Kumey district continues to mount on.
The 21-Koloriang Justice Forum, in one of such latest press statements, criticized the way the police and the district administration were handling the case. According to the Forum, the police, instead of arresting the alleged accused, served them notice to surrender before Koloriang Police Station thus giving them ample opportunity to evade law.
Claiming that involvement of Parliamentary Secretary (Home) Pani Taram in the whole incident was the main reason for not arresting the culprits yet, the Forum demanded immediate resignation of the Parliamentary Secretary (home) on moral ground to facilitate impartial investigation into the matter.
While expressing solidarity with the demand made by 21-Koloriang AC Native Peoples Forum, All Damin Area Youth Organisation, Kurung Kumey district, also claimed that the Magistrate and police are unable to arrest the miscreants, due to the high profile nature of case as well as the involvement of Parliamentary Secretary (Home). It also demanded resignation of the parliamentary secretary on moral ground and for impartial investigation into the matter.
Meanwhile, All Kurung Kumey Youth Association condemned destruction of road infrastructure and demanded immediate arrest of the miscreants involved in road damage.
AKDDSU team visits school
ITANAGAR, Dec 09: A team of All Kra Daadi District Students Union (AKDDSU) visited Govt. Secondary School, Yangte and Govt. Middle School, Sanglum of Kra Daadi district recently.
During its visit, the team members interacted with the teaching staff and appealed them for imparting quality education to students. The AKDDSU team appealed for creating awareness among the students about disadvantage of early marriage and also to strictly prohibit mobile phone in school campus.
AKDDSU also discussed and appealed to the Headmasters of both the schools for proper implementation of mid day meal, provide textbooks and school uniform.
AKDDSU also appealed to inform it about irregular teaching staffs.
Union reiterates demand
ITANAGAR, Dec 9: All Mengio Students ' Union (AMSU) has reiterated its demand for immediate revoking of the recently appointed District Project Coordinator SSA Papum Pare claiming it to be illegal.
'The present incumbent has not appointed as per the prescribed recruitment rules laid down in manual/guidelines of 9th EC 2011, 14th EC 2015 and SSA Rajya Sabha mission minutes/memorandum, for deputation as DPC (SSA),' it said in a release adding that the appointment has deprived other senior and experienced candidates.
The union on Nov 30 submitted a memorandum to education minister and the department for immediate cancellation of the appointment.
Peace rally organized at Khonsa
KHONSA, Dec 9: All Tirap District Students Union (ATDSU), Nocte Students Union (NSU), Khonsa Bazar Welfare Committee (KBWC) and leaders of the Churches on Thursday jointly organized a peace rally from Khonsa Market Taxi Stand to APSTS Bus station in protest against the ambush on 16-Assam Rifles convoy recently in Wakka area in Longding district.
During the rally the participants with posters shouted slogans for lasting peace in Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts.
Khonsa market also remained closed for half day on Thursday as a mark of respect to the brave Assam Rifle Jawans who died in the ambush.
'Introduce cashless transaction in petrol pumps'
ITANAGAR, Dec 09: All Arunachal Contractor's Welfare Association (AACWA) appealed to all Petrol Pumps of capital complex to immediately introduce card sweep machines to receive payment.
In view of the prevailing cash crunch, using the machine will ease the transaction of all customers while filling fuel in their pumps, AACWA said in a release.
AACWA also urged all the bank authorities to immediately provide card sweep machines to all the institutions, who want to use it.
Case lodged against Govt staff
ITANAGAR, Dec 9: A case has been lodged with Seppa Police Station against DLRSO cum member secretary trans-Arunachal highway Pudam Taku and others for alleged siphoning off the compensation budget falling within the community land amounting to crore of rupees at Ch no. 6000 mtres to 13100 mtres of Rilloh segment.
The complainants, Koram Teli, Lalang Techi and Shea Techi, alleges that the project Trans-Arunachal Highway passes through their community land however they have been deprived of the compensation amount.
Earlier, the case was lodged with chief judicial magistrate Seppa who directed Seppa PS to investigate into the case.
MRB Lamps Ltd still crying for justice
ITANAGAR, Dec 9: Four years on, Mori-Rotgo Banggo Large Sized Multipurpose Cooperative Society Limited (MRB Lamps Ltd) share holders are still crying for their legitimate share dividend. The society had lodged a case against its managing director S Chakraborty and Manager V N Pandit alleging embezzlement in 2012 with Yingkiong police station. The case is still pending with State Investigation Commissioner (SIC).
The present account balance of the society is zero however in records; the society has crores of rupees, they said in a release.
PR leaders urge DC to improve PDS system
ITANAGAR, Dec 09: Claiming acute shortage of essential ration commodities (ERC) in Damin circle and total failure of PDS system, the Panchayat leaders of Damin appealed to the Kurung Kumey Deputy Commissioner to ease the situation and make Loruk Bogu as the head load carriage points instead of the Kurung Bridge point.
The Panchayat leader made this appeal to Deputy Commissioner Kanki Darang during his recent visit to border villages like Ruba, Kopila and Huri of Damin circle, according to a release by Damin ZPM Lokam Pabi.
They apprised the DC about various problems and immediate requirements of people of the circle for the smooth functioning of administrative systems, like posting of regular and independent Circle Officer and sufficient teachers, creation of three polling stations at the primary schools of Cheya, Chara and Pilpu to avoid travelling of one day foot march to reach the nearest polling stations during the poll by the adjoining villages of the circle.
They also appealed for early appointment of Goan Burahs (GBs) in the villages.
The people of Damin circle hailed the DC for suspension of non-performing teachers and supporting staffs under Education Departments of the circle and the efforts put in to improve the supply of essential ration items.
According to the panchayat leaders, Rs.10 lakhs for Ruba, Rs. 5 lakhs for Kopila and Rs. 2 lakhs for Paniasang Schools have been announced by the DC for creation of infrastructures for those schools.
Meanwhile, one ALC labour Lomam Tako, who was supposed to accompany the DC, fell from deep Gorge at Loruk Bogu on November 20 and died on the spot, the release said.
The DC also visited victim's kin and promised to help the family members as per govt. norms.
Darang also promised to provide necessary reliefs to the affected families of a fire accident at Chate on November 23.
Two SPT houses of one Chate Tagar and Chate Yapang were reduced to ashes in the fire accident, the release added.
Editorial
Major decisions
The state cabinet which meet on Thursday took two major decisions which can have
massive socio-
The question arises how state government will manage the burden of implementing CPC.
No doubt the government of Arunachal is bound to implement pay commission recommendation
but its potential impact on other development aspects of state worries the people.
Government will have to seriously start looking for other source of revenue and stop
depending only on central fund. Also the decision of state cabinet to relax criteria
of 90:10 ratio for APST and Non-
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Readers’ Forum
Cashless transaction
Dear Editor,
If Arunachal becomes cashless state, we will have the following benefit:
No need to run to ATM and bank everyday to withdraw money for daily expenditure.
No need to accept chocolate and matchbox from shopkeepers in lieu of change.
No need to carry notes and coins in our money purse for shopping.
No need to go for shops for mobile and TV recharge. We can pay bills by using mobile phones.
Yours,
Reader
Regressive propaganda
Dear Editor,
The Supreme Court of India has cited Article 51A (a) of the Constitution of India which says, “It shall be the duty of every citizen of India to abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem”, in its recent order directing all cinema halls in the country to play the National Anthem before the show. The Article 51A of the Constitution of India deals with our Fundamental Duties. It is a pity that while Article 51A (a) of our Constitution is always being highlighted, Article 51A (h) has been consigned to oblivion. The latter says, “It shall be the duty of every citizen of India to develop the scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform.” The need of the hour is to monitor and censor those advertisements and programmes in television and Internet that are spoiling for a fight with the spirit of this article. Those regressive propaganda are trying to embed in our mindsets all sorts of prejudices, superstitions and backwardness. They are creating such an environment where we cannot discharge this very Fundamental Duty which is the lifeblood of our Constitution.
Yours,
Sujit De,
Kolkata
Include subjects
Dear Editor,
Through the column of your esteemed daily I would like to give few opinions regarding the syllabus of Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) as notified by APPSC recently. As AAO is a group B gazetted officer post, I think APPSC should add subjects like Auditing, Basic General Economics & Reasoning/ Aptitude. Hope APPSC will look into the matter and decide.
Yours,
A.Tamuk
Naharlagun
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