December 13
2016
Polytechnic students boycott exam, stage dharna
[ Karyir Riba ]
ROING, Dec 12: The students of the lone technical institute of Lower Dibang Valley district, the Government Polytechnic College, Roing boycotted their semester examination on Monday for non-completion of syllabus due to shortage of faculties.
The protesting students demonstrated before the authority holding placards and shouting slogans and demanded deferment of the examination to a later date.
"Only two units out of the nine units have been taught," the students said and demanded conduction of the examination on a later date after completion of the syllabus of the subject.
The students put forward a list of grievances, which they claim to have gone unheard by the college authority, compelling them to take this step.
Singing a completely different song, the faculty of the institute said that the students have taken this step only after being caught with cheating materials in the ongoing semester examination.
Principal Dr Abhijeet Talukdar has not denied the lack of teaching staff, calling it a problem of not only this but all other polytechnics in the state, but has also informed that apart from the six subject teachers, the institute also has two guest lecturers for the Civil Department (the college has students enrolled only in the Civil department although it also has Electrical and Computer Science Departments).
The students said that the faculty available is only for subjects of the first year but when it comes to the technical subjects they do not have any lecturers. Ironically, according to the students, one lecturer is assigned five subjects and in other cases, a lecturer who has no knowledge about a subject, is also allowed to take it.
"We have to study for our exams by asking our friends studying in Polytechnic Namsai to send us notes via whatsapp. But what is the use of studying just to pass exams without learning anything. Even our practical classes are not conducted properly due to lack of instruments and electricity", said the students.
The generator of the institute is informed to be lying defunct because of rats biting into the wires damaging it.
The students, who had to enroll in Polytechnic Namsai for the first year of their diploma course because of non completion of the college building at Roing, compared both the colleges and said that there is no comparison in terms of facilities, infrastructure and faculty.
"If the college cannot provide us with any facilities or faculties, then why should they enroll students? We should all be transferred back to Namsai", said the students. The library also does not have books required by the students to help them in their studies.
The students also informed that they had submitted a letter to the Director in this regard on his visit to the college in early October last and are awaiting a reply and action from his part. They also added that they were shocked to learn from the Director that no such grievances had been put across to him by the college authority.
Pema assures support to Army
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: Chief Minister Pema Khandu assured State Government's full support to the Indian Army in their welfare works carried out under operation Samaritan urging to continue with such services.
The chief minister during a meeting with Lieutenant General Amarjeet Singh Bedi, General Officer Commanding of Gajraj Corps (4 Corps) of Indian Army based at Tezpur here on Monday, discussed on pending task of establishing Army brigade in the state capital for which 500 acres of land has been identified already.
The Chief Minister hoped that presence of defence forces will create not only sense of security but speed up development activities in the area.
When informed of the low footfall of Arunachalee youths in the Indian Army, Pema urged the Army officials to conduct prior training and coaching programmes for the youths to help them prepare for the examinations and physical tests. He observed that unless the youths are given proper guidance, they won't be able to prepare themselves for the Army recruitment tests.
The Chief Minister also discussed on erecting a war memorial at Itanagar in memory of martyred Arunachali soldiers. He sought guidance and support of the Indian Army for the war memorial, a proposal that had been pending for long. The General assured support and offered to help erect the memorial with display of old age trophies to attract visitors.
Appreciating the Indian Army's Maitri Divas observed in forward areas of India-China border, Pema promised all possible support from state government to the celebration that has helped strengthen the bonds between the two countries.
Bedi who replaced Lieutenant General Devraj Anbu as GOC, 4 Corps on November last, appreciated the state government's support to the Indian Army in providing logistical installations, roads and other defence infrastructures, which is coming up positively.
He also said that Army-public relation in the state, particularly in Tawang and West Kameng district, was best in the country with homely atmosphere felt, which is not seen elsewhere.
The General also assured to organize youth camps prior to recruitment drive with initial physical training and coaching for written examinations.
Lack of data should not be a hindrance in Itanagar Smart City proposal: DC
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: Capital Complex Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Kumar Singh in a meeting here on Monday held a detailed discussion with all the District Heads to chalk out strategies for preparation of the Smart City proposal in presence of consultants from PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).
The DC called upon all the departments to furnish pending datas at the earliest so that lack of data should not act as a hindrance in the Itanagar Smart City proposal.
"We should be determined to make Itanagar a smart city," he said.
Itanagar Municipal Council and Town Planning are the nodal departments in the Smart City proposal to be assisted by PWC, the DC informed.
Habung Lampung, CMEO, IMC highlighting the purpose of the meeting informed that as of now, collection of data was the most important requirement and requested all the departments to cooperate.
He further informed that to connect with the masses, the IMC would very soon start with citizen engagement and social media groups through which the team would interact with people, various associations etc and ask for their suggestion and listing of their needs and problems which would give a general view of the people towards Smart City proposal.
PwC Consultant Gaurav Jaisingnia gave a PowerPoint presentation on smart cities mission highlighting the various aspects of smart city proposal. He informed that the smart city proposal would be done in three rounds.
First round would be held from December 2016 to January 2017 during which the team would interact with the public as well as the line departments to identify various issues.
The second round would be held from January 2017 to February 2017 during which the team would be engaged in prioritizing and analyzing the issues.
The third round would be held from Feb 2017 to March 2017, wherein the team would be designing the solution for the citizen.
Later, various departments provided their suggestions/ feedbacks on the smart city proposal.
The DMO Yupia also stressed on the need to have a safe biomedical waste disposal system. DIPRO
81-year-old woman participates in 'Run for Fun'
YINGKIONG, Dec 12: An 81-year-old woman Andeng Jijong participated in the 'Run for Fun' event in the ongoing Siang Adventure Cum Cultural Festival at Yingkiong organized on Monday by the Army.
Maman Bitin was declared winner and Monge Libang and Kamang Tekseng secured second and third positions in the women's category. In Men's Category, Okeng Tali came first while Agam Lipir and Omin Nitik were adjudged in second and third positions respectively. More than 300 civilians including 100 ladies enthusiastically participated in the event.
Deputy Commander, Siang Brigade gave away prizes to the winners and also felicitated the participants. (DIPRO)
GAF submits memo to education minister
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: In a five-point representation submitted to the Minister for Education, Honchun Ngandam here on Monday, the Green Arunachal Foundation (GAF) has appealed to him to take up issues like, establishment of Arunachal University, educational institutions for differently-abled children and CBSE office at Itanagar besides, installation of CCTV cameras in all government schools and colleges on priority basis for the development of the state's education sector.
The GAF further said that many schools seldom follow the norms under Right to Education Act, 2009 depriving the students the basic facilities they are entitled to. They further suggested that instead of sanctioning money to purchase the material cash should be deposited in students' accounts against the provisions they are entitled for from the government.
"Anshu - Everest Calling" screened in ADDA Short Film Fest
GUWAHATI/ITANAGAR, Dec 12: The real life documentary film based on mountaineer Anshu Jamsenpa "Anshu - Everest Calling" was screened on the inaugural day of the 12th edition of ADDA Short Film Festival at Gawuhati on December 10.
The documentary was nominated by the juries of the festival comprising eminent film makers Gautam Bora and Bhaskar Jyoti Das and writer Manikuntala Bhattacharya from among the 50 entries from India and abroad.
The screening of the documentary was followed by felicitation of Anshu by the Festival Committee led by President Hitesh Mahanta. He stated that this "hard hitting" documentary would inspire many people within the country and abroad, especially women folk.
The film festival was inaugurated by Additional Chief Secretary of Assam V B Pyarelal and renowned folk singer Dhanada Pathak.
Anshu batted for more organization of more such festivals in different parts of North East so that people in far flung areas get an opportunity to watch good and meaningful documentaries.
Directed by Manoj Kr Goswami and Parthasarathi Mahanta, the 39 minute documentary was critically acclaimed by the media and the documentary lovers.
National awardee and filmmaker Samujjal Kashyap, who has been associated with this project from the very beginning, stated that the "Anshu-Everest Calling" took almost two years to complete. He further stated that Anshu is a multi talented personality, a perfectionist and that not many people know that she is the lead actress of 'Crossing Bridges' which has received National Film award from the President of India.
DPC meeting on My Village My Development held at Seppa
SEPPA, Dec 12: As a part of 'My Village My Development Plan (MVMDP)' under the 14th Finance Commission, a meeting of District Planning Committee was held here at Seppa on Monday to evaluate and give final nod to several proposals putforth by all Gram Panchayats of East Kameng district.
GP segment-wise, feasibility and objectives of the proposals submitted for 2016-17 financial year, were discussed and examined in the meeting. The committee also took stock of the status of proposals undertaken earlier under MVMDP -2015-16.
While reviewing all the proposals, EAC-cum-DPDO Dr. Olik Taring called for modification and revision of some of the proposals submitted so far for 2016-17 session under MVMDP and directed for re-submission after due consultation and discussion involving all stakeholders at the earliest. He suggested for considering volume of fund allocation, urgency and genuineness, and need-based requirements of the given area before formalizing and submitting a proposal.
He exhorted the PR members and all concerned to give emphasis and take up such activities which can be completed under the given budgetary allocation, and are matters of exigency and practically benefitting many.
He further advised to take technical inputs from the concern line departments during conceptualization of proposals. He requested the HoDs of all concerned line departments to communicate the matters relevant to panchayat subjects at least to the ZPC, so that the information could be percolated further down to all PR members. He requested all stakeholders to cooperate and support wholeheartedly for overall success of this scheme.
Meanwhile, he highlighted about the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992, Article 243-G, and the Arunachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act, 1997. He briefed about the power, role, function and composition of the panchayati raj system and of its members.
He further briefed about the devolution of powers and subjects delegated to the three tiers of PRIs under PR Act and rule.
Presiding over the meeting, ZPC Mering Natung appealed all concerned to come forward and extend their necessary cooperation to PRIs for progressive development of the district. She urged all concern departments to guide and coordinate with the PR members in implementation of activities relevant to subjects as delegated under PR Act for realistic outcome.
She assured to cooperate and take up any matter concerning PRIs to competent authority.
Besides ZPC and DPDO, ADC Chayangtajo Ashok Tajo, EAC L Thungon, ZPMs, HODs, COs, Anchal Chairpersons, ASMs, and host of PR members and department staffs were present and took part in the discussion. DIPRO
BJYM organizes awareness prog on cashless digital transaction facilities
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: An awareness programme on cashless digital transaction facilities was organised by Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) at Akashdeep Market in Itanagar and Takar Complex at Naharlagun to spread information about various digital facilities for monetary transaction.
Former MLA and State BJP Spokesperson Tani Loffa and party's State Media Secretary Nalong Mize highlighted the decision taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to curb the menace of black money and termed it as realisation of an election promise that was made to the people of India.
They opined that this one step of NDA government will bring in new level of transparency and accountability in the country.
President of State ST Mocha (BJP) Hinium Tacho also spoke on the occasion and encouraged people to take up digital mode of payment for convenience and transparency.
Giving details of the various digital facilities available in the market for electronic transactions, President State BYJM Taring Tiri spoke about mobile wallet, debit card, credit card, UPI, USSO and Aadhar card enabled transaction.
Tiri explained in details the various conveniences of shifting to electronic mode of transaction.
'It is not only convenient and transparent but also very fast and paperless,' he said.
Tiri also shared with the general public that paper money transaction will be an outdated mode of transaction in digital India as envisaged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He strongly appealed to everyone to switch to digital mode of transaction and take advantage of various conveniences it provides. He added that by doing so one can bring in transparency and accountability in the country.
The function was anchored by BJYM State General Secretary Beli Gadi. Various forms of banks for applying electronic transaction facilities were distributed to the general public on the occasion.
Nampong: Land Bridge to East Asia
[ Jajati K. Pattnaik ]
Nampong which is situated in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh is a potential land bridge for India's cross border trade and economic integration with the East Asian countries mostly through the Highways of Myanmar, China, Thailand, Cambodia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Vietnam, Malaysia and then to the woodland city in Singapore crossing over 1 km causeway from Johor Bahru (Malaysia). Much to the consternation, Nampong notified as a Land Customs Station (LCS) since 1951 has largely remained non-functional, and border trade was limited to informal channels.
At present, the Indian nationals are allowed to visit Pangsau market (Myanmar side) on 10th, 20th and 30th of every month. Likewise, Myanmarese nationals living 16 kilometer of its border are permitted to visit Nampong on every Friday to procure their necessary items. In the event of such formal border trade, there would be surge in both imports and exports with rice, tick, forest products, granite and coal making their way in to the Indian markets, while cement, food products, medicines, fertilizer, chemical products and machineries flowing into the Myanmarese markets.
With the inception of Act East policy and emergence of free trade architecture in the region, the central government is considering all possible means to start formal trade by renovating the Nampong LCS. In this perspective, the Indian Ambassador to Myanmar, Gautam Mukhopadhaya also felt the need for transforming NLCS into a functional one to attain the economic interests of the North East. He said in March 2015, 'if one considers a catchment area with a radius of 1000 km, the region would be central to at least 10 countries. This geo-strategic concept gains eminence in the light of the country's Act East Policy.'
The much envisaged trans Asian road corridor starts from Nampong
(Arunachal Pradesh) and touches Shindbwiyang, Bhamo and Myitkyina in Kachin (Myanmar) linking Ledo-Burma roads junction through Wanding and Yunnanyi to the city of Kunming in the Yunnan province( China). Later, Myanmar Government assigned contract to Yunnan Construction Engineering Group of China and the military backed Yuzana group in 2010 to reconstruct 312 kilometer road from Myitkyina in Myanmar to Pangsau pass at India-Myanmar border .India has renovated its portion through two lane highways, while China has renovated its own segment through six lane Highways. If Myanmar segment is completed, then Nampong corridor can be connected to Muse, Lashio, Mandalay and Yangon (Myanmar) through Asian Highway (AH14), Ruili, Wanding and Kunming (China) through AH3 and Bangkok (Thailand), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) and Singapore (Singapore) through Asian Highway 2(AH2) and further to Phnom Penh (Cambodia) and Ho Chi Minh city (Vietnam) of grater Mekong sub-region through Asian highways 1(AH1). It is pertinent to mention here that the road distance calculated in this study between Nampong- Mandalay-Yangon ( 1428.2km), Nampong-Bangkok (2091.1km), Nampong-Kuala Lumpur(3436.7 km), Nampong- Singapore(3795.2 km ), Nampong- Phnom Penh (2737.1 km) and Nampong-Hanoi- Hochi Minh ( 3066.6 km ) is quite a feasible proposition in terms of cost benefit analysis as compared to the trans-shipment of goods to Southeast /East Asia from Northeast via Kolkata port passing through the Siliguri corridor.
East Asia Land Corridor
Origin Destination Road Distance in KM
Nampong Mandalay 797
Nampong Yangon 1428.2
Nampong Kunming 1677
Nampong Bangkok 2091.1
Nampong Kuala Lumpur 3436.7
Nampong Singapore 3795.2
Nampong Phnom Penh 2737.1
Nampong Hanoi 2591
Nampong Ho Chi Minh City 3066.6
It is further anticipated that such type of transnational-connectivity corridors would help in strengthening free trade architecture eventually pave the way for East Asian economic integration.
The major benefit is that the development of Nampong LCS would promote regional and sub -regional co-operation in South and South East Asia as well. It would generate opportunities for India's North East to collaborate with the ASEAN(Association of South East Asian Nations), Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) and Bangladesh, China, India and Myanmar (BCIM) forum on trade, transport, technology, automobiles, machineries, electronics, petro-chemicals, gas crackers, pharmaceuticals, herbal, fertilizer, polymer, agro-horticulture, education banking, investment and tourism by harnessing their shared capabilities. Besides, it would give rise to growth triangles on the basis of different comparative strengths of adjacent regions by capitalizing their natural resources, technology, finance and human for a successful trilateral or quadrilateral venture. Considering the significance of Nampong as a potential land bridge, Bitta Chena, the Vice- President of North Federation on International Trade(NEFIT), who also belongs to Jairampur, told the writer, 'this is the only town which has connectivity upto Kunming, Yunan province of China and the ASEAN. Nampong which is falling under the present NH 315 is well maintained and built on stable land. Moreover, this route is neither affected by seasonal flood nor by landslides.' He further said that 'till today land route trading relations are found in the northern and western part of the country. We do not think the old saying Look East policy has any honest commitment. Why I am saying so is that to open trade with Pakistan, an arch rival country, and with Nepal no Look West and Look North agenda was required. But for Northeast we are so cautious we take advices and suggestions from everybody though each one of them knows that Northeast is well connected with ASEAN.'
Thus, the need of the hour is to frame action oriented policies along with a fresh vision document in the context of India's Northeast-Act East policy, and then transform them into practical actions at the ground level for the benefit of all the stakeholders in the region. Otherwise, it would remain a mere rhetoric or purely a wishful thinking. (The writer is an Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Government Model Degree College, Jemi Notko, Roing, Arunachal Pradesh. He was formerly a Visiting Scholar at the Gulf Studies Programme, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. The inputs of this article are largely based on the writer's field trip to Indo-Myanmar border in Nampong-Pangsau section.)
5 Karatekas awarded Black Belt first Dan
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: Five Karate players have been awarded Black Belt first Dan in a belt grading test conducted at CSP Indoor Hall here on December 11.
Those karate players, who have been awarded Black Belts, are Lipin Ete, Biri Moni, Biki Yatang, Charu Jagu and Toku Mama.
Besides, yellow belts were awarded to 36, Orange Belts to 18, Green Belts to 9 and Blue Belts to four players.
A total of 85 Karatekas appeared for the test.
The test was conducted in presence of ASKA President Dr. Marli Ete, General Secretary Charu Tatung, Prakash Limbu, Y. Yun, Tagri Raju, Charu Govind, Mui Ama, Higi Yamum and Anjaw District Karate Association President Birin Yun, which was supervised by ASKA Technical Director and AKA General secretary Bulang Marik.
Lipin, 10, is the youngest karate players to earn a black belt in the state.
Representing the country, she won a Silver medal in Sub-Junior Girls category in Commonwealth Karate Championship in 2015.
This year, Lipin won a bronze medal in Kumite in KAI National Karate Championship in New Delhi.
She bagged two gold medals in Kimite and Kata events in the North East India Karate Championship at Sikkim in October this year. Lipin also bagged a gold medal in the 21st State level Karate Championship held at Ziro last month. Before this, she bagged two gold medals in Kata and Kumite in the 3rd State Level Shito-Ryu Seiko Kai Championship held in Anjaw in October this year.
Papum Pare lift overall championship trophy
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: Papum Pare lifted the overall team championship trophy at the 24th State Taekwondo Khoryugi and 6th Poomsae Champioship- 2016, which was held at Nyikum Niya Hall, Nirjuli from December 9 to 11.
Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy lifted the runners up Trophy.
The closing ceremony was attended by ZPM, Mengio Tarh Passang, and ASM Karsingsa Kipa Taniang.
Earlier, Sports Authority of Arunachal vice chairman G. Doke and deputy director, Department of Sports, Mala Lingi attended the opening ceremony on December 9.
APMC to check quackery in state
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: The Arunachal Pradesh Medical Council (APMC) informed that the Government of Arunachal Pradesh has constituted a Joint Ethics Committee to effectively curb the menace of quacks practicing medicine in the state, and other related matters.
The Joint Ethics Committee would be headed by the chairman of the Ethical Committee of APMC, with the registrar cum secretary of the APMC as the member/convener, and six other members from various medical councils of the state.
Accordingly, the chairman and members would come together periodically, or when required, to keep a check on medical malpractices in the state.
Earlier, in a council meeting of the APMC, the council lauded the decision of the government for constituting the Joint Ethics Committee. It also unanimously resolved to soon update the scientific knowledge of modern medicine practitioners by accrediting Continuing Medical Education (CME) hours and award CME credit points.
Taking serious note of the 'irrational' prescription of antibiotics in particular, by some physicians, the APMC also resolved to enforce upon the doctors for a rational prescription of drugs by taking up 'prescription audit' of prescriptions randomly.
'Allegation baseless'
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: The Superintending Engineer (Coord), Itanagar civil circle, Hydro Power Development Department, Er K Perme has termed the allegation leveled against him as baseless.
Reacting to the news item published in this daily on Monday leveling corruption charges against the SE in evaluation of answer papers in recruitment exam for the junior engineer (civil),
Perme said that there is no question of favouritism in awarding marks to the candidates. Awarding marks to the candidates are not under the purview of the department; it is up to the evaluator who was checking the answer papers, he further said adding that the exam was conducted in 2015, not recently.
Referring to a question - who founded the "Vande Mataram"?, the SE clarified that the answer - Bankim Chandra Chattarjee was wrong and therefore, zero mark was awarded to all the candidates who wrote the wrong answer, not only to her (complainant) by the evaluator. Regarding the question - what is the mission period for Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan?, the SE said, the answer - '5 years' was wrong and those candidates who wrote - '2nd Oct (1914 - 2019)' were awarded 2 marks by the evaluator. Hence the allegation of favouritism in awarding marks to the candidates is baseless.
CM calls on Governor
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday called on Governor V. Shanmuganathan at Raj Bhavan and discussed on various developmental issues.
The Chief Minister briefed the Governor on the recent important developmental initiatives of the State Government. PRO to Raj Bhawan
Abducted girl rescued in Mumbai
TEZU, Dec 12: The girl, who was reportedly abducted from Wakro to Mumbai, was rescued by Mumbai Police and the accused has been arrested.
A Police team from Tezu proceeded to Panvel, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra on Monday in connection with investigation of the case and take over the girl from Mumbai Police.
Lohit District Administration is monitoring the situation and directed EAC Wakro to extend all possible help to the victim's family. DIPRO
Hundreds benefit from free med camp
AALO, Dec 12: Around 400 people were screened for Hepatitis-B, Diabetes, vaccinated, tested for blood sugar and eye checkups by team of doctors led by Dr. Tomar Kamki, Dr. P Kamki and Dr. G Bagra during a medical health camp conducted at remote Higi Bagra village here on Saturday last.
The camp, conducted by the APB&OCWWB was earlier inaugurated by Pusi Anchal Chairperson Kapu Bagra, who advised people of the area to avail maximum benefit of the camp. Bagra also advised the laborers to register with the Board to avail various benefits being provided by the board to its registered workers.
Airport project : Govt 'half-hearted' approach resented
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: Arunachal Civil Society (ACS) in a press statement alleged the state government of half-hearted approach to the issue of the proposed Greenfield Airport project at Hollongi.
In a release ACS claimed that Chief Secretary recently made a statement, stating “…Hence acquiring land at Hollongi is going to be critical and it can be bottleneck for project”.
The ACS described the alleged statement as illogical and hoped that Chief Minister Pema Khandu and the CS would to read the pulse of the people and work accordingly to construct the airport without any further delay.
Indian Army Observes Swachhata Pakhwada
AALO, Dec 12: An awareness walk, run and cleanliness drive was conducted by the first Bihar Regiment of Indian Army as part of its observance of Swachhata Pakwada fortnight which began from Dec 1 last, under Swachha Bharat Mission here on Sunday last.
A large number of Indian Army personnel congregated at the general ground and started awareness march and took part in massive cleanliness drives along the streets of the township. (DIPRO)
Youth encouraged in hotel business
[ Karda Natam ]
DAPORIJO, Dec 12: Dumporijo MLA Paknga Bage encouraged the upcoming entrepreneurs and unemployed youths to enter into the flourishing hospitality management and hotel business and become one of the main stakeholders in tourism development.
Growth in tourism in Arunachal Pradesh and growing number of tourists visiting Upper Subansiri encourages hotel and hospitality industry, the MLA said while addressing the inauguration function of a new hotel at Gandhi Market here on Sunday.
Tourists visiting Upper Subansiri often face accommodation problem due to insufficient hotel and lodging facilities, Paknga said, adding that hotel business here can be most profitable undertaking.
Superintendent of Police Taru Gusar, EACs Manik Bui and Taga Ekke, PRI leaders and other businessmen attended the function.
Swachhata Pakhwada organized at Mechuka
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: A mass cleanliness drive was oraganized under "Swachhata Pakhwada" by Kumaon Regiment of Indian Army in collaboration with Bazar Committee and ADC office Mechuka at Mechuka Township on Monday.
Hundreds army personnel, general public, students and members from NGOs actively participated in the day-long cleanness and cleaned up the surrounding areas.
Speaking on the occasion, Bazar Secretary K L Mosing requested the shopkeepers to avoid using polythene in the market as it is widely banned by government due to its bad effects in environment. He urged upon all the shopkeepers to install compulsory dustbin at every shop.
Meanwhile, ADC Mechukha Tungge Loya who inspected every nook and corner of the town during the cleanliness drive lauded the volunteers and exhorted them to carry out similar cleanness drive at every colony and sector.
ADC suggested the dwellers of all sectors and colonies to keep the colony clean by carrying out cleanliness drive on weekly basis.
APSLSA and DLSA conduct counseling for residents of Oju Mission
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: Member Secretary Arunachal Pradesh State Legal Services Authority (APSLSA), Budi Habung and Papum Pare District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Chairperson, Jaweplu Chai visited Children's Home and Legal Aid Clinic at Oju Mission and interacted with the residents on the occasion of Human Rights Day on Saturday last.
Both Habung and Chai counseled the residents most of whom are victims of child marriage, domestic violence and rape survivors and appointed legal aid counsels for them to file appropriate cases in various forums including the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women.
They also inspected the legal aid clinic established in the Oju Mission campus and interacted with the legal aid counsels and staff of Oju Mission.
ALSDVF complains against PMEGP beneficiary selection
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: The All Lower Subansiri District Volunteer Front (ALSDVF) has complained against selection of PMEGP beneficiaries by the Task Force Committee of the district. In its representation to the DC calling for its immediate cancellation, it alleged that the selection was made on pick and choose policy without maintaining formalities.
The pick and choose method applied in selecting PMEGP loan beneficiaries has curtailed the legitimate rights of other unemployed, the representation read.
Councilor demands establishment of Fire station at Banderdewa
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: The Ward councilor of Itanagar Municipal Council, Ward No.30, Tai Tasung has appealed to the state government for setting up a fire station either at PTC or at Banderdewa.
"Fire devoured two houses in Banderdewa circle in just two days. Such repeated incidences have made us realize that a fire station is a necessity here. It is a long felt demand of the people of the area," he said.
The first incident occurred on Saturday late night at Banderdewa which burnt down Gyamar Karu's house and the second fire accident occurred on Monday at around 2 am at Karsingsa completely gutting down the house of Tai Nekio.
The councilor has urged the state govt. and the district administration to compensate the fire victims Tai Nekio of Karsaingsa and Gyamar Karu of Banderdewa.
NITI Aayog's Amitabh Kant to chair meet on digital cash payment
RANCHI, Dec 12: NITI Aayog's Chief Executive Officer Amitabh Kant will chair an important meeting with senior officials from Jharkhand in connection with digital cashless payment.
Principal Secretaries, secretaries of different departments and senior bank officials would attend the meeting at 10 am in Ranchi, an official release said quoting Development Commissioner Amit Khare. PTI
After the meeting, Mr Kant would meet Chief Minister Raghubar Das and discuss on cashless Jharkhand. Jharkhand has launched the campaign from December 2.
Eviction drive opposed
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: The All Kra Daadi District Students Union (AKDDSU) has strongly opposed the recent eviction drive conducted by Kra Daadi DC at Palin on Friday last, claiming that the move targeted only the poor.
The Union in a release claimed that the structures which were demolished during the drive were not illegal and belonged to the poor. 'There has always been rampant encroachment and illegal construction along the highway and yet the administration is to start eviction along the highway. The drive carried out by the district administration is only targeted the poor residents of the area whereas the rich and influential are freely encroaching and erecting structures illegally under the guidance of the administration', it alleged.
'Construct Parsi Parlo to Damin road soon'
ITANAGAR, Dec 12: The All Damin Area Youth Organization has in a release on Monday, claimed that Damin under Kurung Kumey district does not have proper road connectivity and appealed to the state government to initiate construction of a road connecting Parsi Parlo to Damin at the earliest.
'Recently two 16 KV transformers donated by former MLA, Lokam Tassar had to be transported from Naharlagun to Damin with the help of a helicopter because of the absence of road connectivity in the area', it informed.
Meanwhile, 5-Damin Anchal Samiti Chairperson, Chakpu Gamshi has in a release also informed that LT lines between Parsi Parlo to Damin has been snapped at many points disrupting power supply. He has further appealed to the Chief Minister and the concerned department to sanction adequate funds to restore the power lines soon.
621 villagers get ST, PRC certificates
AALO, Dec 12: Bringing administration into the door steps of the people, Yomcha Administration has issued Scheduled Tribe, Permanent Resident Certificates and Birth Certificates to 621 villagers in the first phase of the month-long village outreach programme conducted under the supervision of ADC Yomcha Rujum Raksap from November 9 to till date.
The main objective behind the programme is to provide necessary documents to the people, who are ignorant about the importance of certificates besides creating awareness among the villagers about the importance of cleanliness and maintaining high degree of health and sanitation practices.
So far, 10 villages have been covered under the mission and eight more villages will be covered by the end of this month. DIPRO
Training for BRO engineers organised
YINGKIONG, Dec 12: A one-day workshop cum training programme was conducted on 'WMM mix design and Practice' at Yingkiong on Sunday.
Organized by 761 BRTF, all Officers and Junior Engineers of Border Roads Organisation (BRO) deployed in Siang Valley attended the training programme.
Speaking during the inaugural session, VSM, Commander of 761 BRTF SK Pradhan explained the need for ground engineers to keep abreast the current trends of road constructions and for adopting best practices of the industry.
He emphasized that, knowledge and willingness to put the knowledge to practice are the key requisites of the successful engineer.
"In order to fast track the construction works, we must embrace current technology and equipment. Wet Mix Macadam (WMM) has since replaced Water Bound Macadam (WBM) primarily to offer better strength to the base layer and a faster laying,"the commander said.
Presentations were given on different aspects of WMM Mix Design by EE (Civ), OC of 1448 BCC SS Prasad, EE (Civ) of 761 BRTF Pankaj Kumar, and AE (Civ) of 1448 BCC AK Singh.
761 BRTF of Project Brahmank of BRO currently look after all important roads of Upper Siang district from Pangin to Gelling and has employed 20 Officers and 55 Junior Engineers for road maintenance and up gradation works. (DIPRO)
Copyright © 2008, The Arunachal Times Publications Pvt. Ltd., Siang House, Sector
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All rights reserved.
Editorial
Bad days ahead
There is raging debate going on over the impact of demonitisation on Indian economy.
But the actual impact will be clear only after March. Critics argue that economy
is sliding down and it will negatively affect the country. While those supporting
the move believe that in the long run it will help Indian economy. As the debate
continuous over demonitisation goes on, there is some bad news for the economy. The
global crude oil prices jumped to their highest levels in a year and a half, today,
after OPEC and non-
This is really a bad news for India. India imports a major part (around 70%) of its
crude oil requirement. The increase in crude oil price will lead to high inflation
which can have catastrophic effect on the economy. The global crude oil prices have
been quite volatile, falling from a high of $115/bbl in mid-
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Readers’ Forum
Memories of hero should not be tied up with foolishness
Dear Editor,
With regard to earlier announced and recent decision of the state government to confer the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) rank to the widow of late Bomto Kamdak, one is obligated to play the role of the Devil's Advocate.
One gets the impression that a lot of sensible people are against this decision of the Government but are silent for fear of being labeled insensitive towards the sacrifice of the departed brave heart and the plight of his family.
However, it is essential that opinions are shared without bitterness and rancour. And a valid opinion is: "Why award the rank of a First Class Gazetted Officer on compensatory ground?"
Policing is a tough job. One needs mental sharpness and physical fitness to be a good policeman/policewoman. These demands go up as the ranks go higher. And the rank of DySP is the highest one can achieve through direct recruitment. It has often been seen that the DySP handles all the responsibilities of the SP for months on end due to the absence of the SP (when the later is on leave or on tour), and to say that dealing with the law and order mechanism of a whole district is a challenging task is an understatement.
Secondly, promotion in the Police department is notoriously slow. There are very
able DySPs who have come up the rank after slogging for decades as Inspector/Sub-
And finally, such a decision is likely to be cited as a precedent for any in-
It goes without saying that the state owes a debt to the departed soul. By all means provide a job to his widow. But surely it cannot be an elite position for which thousands compete in the most grueling and tough examination of the state, can it?
Mr. Bomto Kamdak was a hero and will be a hero for Arunachalees. One wishes his memories are not tied up with such foolishness.
Yours,
Agu Pota
Paying through SMS
Dear Editor,
Is cash-
High denomination is the talk not only in India, but across the globe. In a recent study by a Harvard University professor, it was found that 500 denomination Euros are the preferred currency of many criminals and terrorists across the globe. The European Union is considering putting an end to 500 Euros. In India, the thought process is that the high denomination is also a temporary measure for a quick conversion to new notes. In due course of time, they will eventually be taken out from circulation.
The plus point of electronic currency is due to its footprints. When you use NEFT or RTGS or your credit or debit card, you leave a trail. This is important to keep a check on illegitimate transactions. But leaving the debate behind, for a true cashless society the ideal platform will be when you will be using a simple mobile to pay five rupees for your bus fare from Chandmari to Ganeshguri. Is it possible without a Smartphone? Yes, it is. Is it practical? Maybe not right now. But let us see how you can transfer small amounts of money from one person to another without a credit or debit card or even net banking.
All you need is a phone and a bank account. You need to register your mobile number
with your bank. In case if you have not done it, visit your branch and fill-
To begin with, open the dialler and dial *99#. If you want the menu in Assamese, dial *99*31#. You will see the welcome screen, after which you will have to enter first three letters bank code followed by send. Here, you will have the options to check your account balance, check mini statement, or send money using MMID or IFSC. There, you have to give details of the person to whom you want to transfer money. The USSD payment method can be used for sending money as low as Rs. one, and as high as Rs 5,000 per transaction. Coming to charges, Rs. 0.50 per transaction, which will be added in your mobile bill. The service works 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
While the service does enable non-
Yours,
Dipankar Jakharia,
Guwahati.
Clean capital still a distant dream
Dear editor,
It is very unfortunate to witness the garbages in every nook and corner in the twin capital city of Arunachal Pradesh. Despite many cleanliness campaigns and awareness programme being launched by the govt our capital has earned the tag of third dirtiest city in India. The cleaning of surrounding is the responsibility of the Govt.
I welcome the Swachh Bharat Cess being collected. More steps and actions need to be taken by the govt by following strict guidance and penalties.
Yours,
Chuppi N. Rina
Likabali,
West Siang District.