December 14
2016
NEEPCO CVO names Kiren Rijiju in corruption report; Power ministry says no wrong doing
[ Tongam Rina ]
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju has been named in a report written by North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO)'s ousted Chief Vigilance Officer alleging corrupt practices in the construction of 600 MW Kameng Hydro Electric Project in West Kameng district.
"The report by CVO Satish Verma, sent to the CBI, CVC and the Ministry of Power in July this year, alleges an 'elaborate conspiracy' involving contractors, NEEPCO officials and the West Kameng district administration to defraud NEEPCO and the government of funds that "may extend up to Rs 450 crore", says a report by the Indian Express newspaper.
Kiren denies any involvement. While speaking to this daily, Kiren said that it was a planted story. However, he did not name anyone. How can there be misuse of funds running upto Rs 450 crore, when the whole project itself amounts that much, he said.
The project was accorded clearance by Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs at an estimated cost of Rs.2496.90 crore, including interest during construction of Rs.249.09 crore in December 2002. However, a revised cost estimate of Rs. 5139 crore was submitted to the centre by the PSU in Dec 2011.
When questioned regarding the letter written to the Power Ministry for release of funds for contractors, which includes one of his relatives, Kiren said that he wrote the letter after the contractors sent him a memorandum seeking his intervention for release of funds for transportation of boulders.
A letter was written to Kiren on 29th Sept 2015 by some ten contractors seeking his help in clearance of payment for transportation of boulders. In the letter, they allege stoppage of payment by the CVO based on "false allegation".
Based on the letter, Kiren wrote to Piyush Goyal, the Minister of state for power seeking his intervention for clearance of bills which was "perhaps stopped on the behest of CVO, NEEPCO".
Reportedly, the CBI has made two unannounced checks but no FIR has been registered yet on the report given by the NEEPCO'S CVO.
The Kameng Hydro Electric Project is a Run of the river scheme being partly executed by Patel Engineering.
Meanwhile, power Minister Piyush Goyal has rejected the claims of corruption. In a twitter message, he said that allegations of corruption against Kiren were false and baseless.
The ministry has issued a press release as well, which has been uploaded in the Press Bureau of India website, where it denies any wrong doing. It exonerated Kiren of any wrong doing stating that he had no role in release of payments for the contractors.
Instead the ministry blamed Verma, who was appointed as CVO of NEEPCO in Oct 2014, of continued violation of CVC instructions and for violation of All India Service Conduct Rules, 1968, for not performing his duties with due diligence and care.
Clearing itself as well Kiren of any wrong doing, the ministry further stated the project work was awarded to M/s Patel Engineering Ltd. (PEL) in December 2004, much before the present government took charge.
"Work for transportation of boulders/ sand was awarded to them in 2012 itself, much before the present government took charge. PEL executed the work from December, 2012 to July, 2015 and payment was made to them from time to time during this period, after due process of verification and measurement of quantity at site and the certification of distance by the State government officials regarding quantity of boulder/sand mined from the respective quarry", the press release states.
"In July 2015, Verma stopped all payments due to which the work at site was affected. Verma himself authorised on 19th October, 2015, adhoc payment of 60% of the billed amount and subsequently himself further authorised the provisional payment of 80% of the billed amount vide letter dated 3rd February, 2016", the ministry says.
The letter written by MoS Home Affairs has no bearing on any payments released by NEEPCO as the payment had already been released before his letter under authorization of Verma, it says. The ministry states that Verma's report is motivated because of the charge-sheet issued against him for violation of CVC instructions and service conduct rules.
Kiren got himself in another fresh controversy while speaking to the media when he said that those who have planted the story against him will be beaten up with shoes.
Meanwhile, rejecting graft charges against Kiren Rijiju as "baseless", BJP said Congress was trying to blame the Union Minister for its "sins" as it was in power at the Centre as well as in Arunachal Pradesh when the project under question was sanctioned.
The party said Congress and its "friend", a reference to the vigilance officer who has flagged the alleged corruption involving Rijiju, had conspired to smear its name as the opposition party had not been able to find a single case of corruption in its two-and-a-half years of rule at the Centre.
BJP National Secretary Shrikant Sharma also insisted that the contractor, who is at the centre of allegations, is not Rijiju's cousin as alleged.
The Congress has demanded the ouster of Kiren alleging his involvement.
Stating that Rijiju's role in the matter is under cloud, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also released an audio tape of a purported conversation of his cousin, a contractor in the 600 MW power project, and Rijiju's letter recommending that held up payments be released. (With inputs from PTI)
Discharge duty without any fear, CM asks DCs and SPs
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday asked the Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police to perform duties without fear or favour.
"There is nothing to be afraid of. Take action on anyone who breaks the law or is involved in corruption even if he or she is a government official or a politician," he said addressing the annual conference of deputy commissioners and superintendents of police here on Tuesday morning at Banquet Hall.
"DCs and SPs are the caretakers of their respective districts. They are the 'eyes and ears' of the government," Pema said, adding that the success of the government will be measured only on the success in implementing welfare projects and maintaining law and order in the districts.
He advised the officers to maintain transparency in their dealings with line departments as well as the public.
"The development process has slowed down during the last two years. Now we have to make up the loss by working twice as hard while maintaining transparency and accountability," the Chief Minister said.
Emphasizing on the growth of IT sector, Pema said that it has become a necessity to take IT facilities up to Panchayat level.
"With the introduction of GST and Direct Benefit Transfer, even block levels will have to be integrated through IT. And this calls for active role of the deputy commissioners," he pointed out.
Underscoring the role of deputy commissioners in successful implementation of all central and state government schemes, the Chief Minister informed that he will take review on latest status of ongoing schemes through video conferencing with deputy commissioners once in every month.
"DCs will be informed of the project/subject to be reviewed at least 15 days ahead, so that they can be prepared with every detail and updates," he said.
Deputy Chief Minister, Chowna Mein in his address, gave to priority to maintenance of law and order. He said, in-spite of being a peaceful state, the police department will have to improve its statistics in view of Arunachal turning into a budding tourist destination with increasing inflow of visitors and investors.
Mein urged the district administrations to expedite land acquisition and other clearances as various developmental projects got delayed due to lengthy process. He urged them to complete the process in a time bound manner and as per guidelines.
Mein called for regular monitoring of all the State Plan and CSS Schemes, Programs and Policies and for timely submission of Quarterly Progress Report (QPR), Utilization Certificates and Completion Certificates. He informed that Government of India has taken serious note on the delay in submission of QPR, UCs and with regard to Centrally Sponsored Scheme leading to undue delay in release of subsequent installments adversely affecting the progress of several projects.
The DCM also called to rationalize Chief Minister's Flagship schemes and urged all the Deputy Commissioners to see that the CM flagship programs are effectively implemented. He also said to increase revenue generation and advised them to devise formulas to plug revenue leakages.
Mein further urged the Deputy Commissioners to educate people on e-transactions by organizing mass awareness programmes by tying up with the bankers as the country is moving towards cashless transactions as envisaged by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
With a view to make governance more transparent, he also stressed upon the District Administration towards Adhaar Card registration and its subsequent ceding to avoid duplicity and to successfully implement schemes like Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in various sectors which will particularly help the students and the farming community.
As the in-charge Minister of Finance and Planning, DCM requested all the DCs and SPs to come up with innovative ideas and schemes and present them before the Govt. as the state govt. is planning to present a participatory budget in the up-coming budget.
He further expressed hope that DCs and SPs will continue to propel the engine of development with their innovative ideas and take the administration to the doorstep of the people.
Home Minister Kumar Waii sought better coordination among deputy commissioners and superintendents of police for overall development of the districts. Being the RWD Minister in-charge, he said high compensation demands have adversely affected implementation of PMGSY schemes and sought proactive role of the DCs in resolving such issues.
Parliamentary Secretary (Home) Pani Taram emphasized on better coordination of the district administrations that share boundaries with Assam and Nagaland to thwart differences with neighbouring states. He suggested regular meeting and social interaction with people residing along the inter-state boundary for peace and harmony.
In an interactive session that followed, several issues like land acquisition for trans-Arunachal highway, civilian terminus in ALGs, GST, etc were discussed.
Also present in the inaugural function of the conference were the Chief Secretary, Director General of police, PCCF, Principal Secretary Home, Commissioner Home, Commissioners and Secretaries of various departments.
The two-day conference will take up district-wise review of hydro power projects, aadhar coverage, DBT, education, health, central and state-sponsored programmes, PMs flagship prohrammes, Trans-Arunachal Highway, digital India programme, etc.
AAPSU appeals CM to revoke decision on stipend, relaxation in recruitment norms
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: The members of All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU) led by its president Hawa Bagang and General Secretary Tobom Dai met Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday evening at his office and submitted a memorandum on the various issues concerning the state and student communities. AAPSU reiterated their opposition to recent cabinet decision linking student's stipend with Aadhaar card and one time 50:50 relaxations in teachers' recruitment process.
"The Aadhaar card drive in the state is cumbersome and full of shortcomings and is yet to cover the whole of the state. The decision of govt will impact poor students of rural background most of whom depend on government stipends for their studies. Cabinet decision to bring down reservation in teachers recruitment from 90:10 to 50:50 is against the spirit of state recruitment policy that has been passed in the state assembly. AAPSU is of firm opinion that till there is enough human resources available from our indigenous students. Therefore preference should be given to our students and any decision to sabotage the age old arrangement of 90:10 would be opposed tooth & nail," AAPSU stated.
The other demands of AAPSU include regular disbursement of salary to teachers working under SSA/RMSA, full-fledged state university status to JNC Pasighat with proper infrastructure and manpower, establishment of CBSE regional sub-branch office in Itanagar, timely disbursement of stipend and scholarship to students, setting up of an government bachelor of education (B.Ed) college in the state, streamlining of non-uniformity imposition of fees for pursuing B.Ed course under RGU and its affiliated colleges, proper implementation of Rashtriya Ucchatar Shikhsa Abhiyan (RUSA), revamping of the dilapidated infrastructure of all government schools and colleges,
strict implementation of RTE Act 2009, introduction of wearing traditional dresses once in a week in all secondary and higher secondary school, provide high tech equipment and quality medicinal facilities in govt hospitals, early solution to Assam-Arunachal boundary row, solve the vexed Chakma-Hajong issue and formulation of Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission exam calendar annually.
Chief Minister congratulated the newly elected members of AAPSU and advised them to work for the welfare of the students. Responding to the 17-point memorandum submitted by the student union, the CM expressed happiness that the issues raised were genuine and were mostly focused on education.
Asserting that the present government is keen to provide transparency in its functioning, the Chief Minister urged the union to work constructively and raise constructive issues. He said even the legislators should raise issues against department anomaly and misconduct. Khandu said the present government is trying its best to mend the ailing education sector by rectifying the recruitment process of the teacher. He informed that the government is attempting to prevent all back door entry in the employment process admitting candidly that sometimes politicians do succumb to public pressure to give them undue favour.
Taking cognizance of the irregular calendar for recruitment process conducted by the Arunachal Public Service Commission (APPSC), the Chief Minister said to correct such past practises, a person of high reputation and dignity, former civil servant Tajom Taloh has been appointed as the chairman of the commission. He said that unlike in the past where people from political background were selected as chairman, this time a person from civil service background has been appointed. The Chief Minister said that state government is attempting to conduct recruitment process of all departments through the commission only. This will prevent all those back door channels through which illegal recruitment is conducted, and people pursuing for such methods will be discouraged.
Also the Chief Minister informed that education department has been instructed to rationalise all teachers posting so that overcrowding of teachers in urban areas can be minimised and shortages of teachers in rural areas can be met. He asserted that the state government will not compromise in quality service for health and education sector.
Pointing out that due to opening of numerous schools in remote sparsely populated area, Khandu said that many such schools were non-functioning due to non-availability of students. To rectify such cases, he informed that the department has been directed to collect list of such schools that are running without adequate numbers of students or where there are none. Accordingly, all Deputy Commissioners have been instructed to verify such schools so that non functioning schools can be clubbed so that non-availability of students can be sorted out and teachers engaged meaningfully.
On SSA teachers, the Chief Minister informed that state government is also working out mechanism to regularise their job. He informed that department has been instructed to work out a mechanism to absorb performing teachers possibly through some form of competitions amongst them. He also informed that state government has released the pending salaries of the SSA teachers.
To make Arunachal University at Pasighat a fully fledged one, the Chief Minister informed that for infrastructure development, Rs 10 crore has been sanctioned. Also he said that education Parliamentary Secretary had visited the institute to take stock of the present status of the University.
Regarding Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act implemented in the state, the CM admitted on the stand of the union that much of the unlawful activities could be prevented through the existing CrPC and IPC codes. He, however, said if the citizens are law-abiding, people have nothing to fear from such acts. Further to derive consensus on the issue, the CM said an all party meeting and meeting of community based organisations will be called soon.
On objection of AAPSU to the 50:50 one-time recruitment policy for APST and non-APST candidates in teachers recruitment for science and maths teachers, the Chief Minister assured the matter will be examined through the department.
Regarding usage of Aadhar card for student stipend, the CM said the state is trying to move towards cashless economy, which is as per the directions from Prime Minister of India. He said the use of Aadhaar will minimise corruption in stipend disbursement, as the account will be directly linked with the student. Also it will cut off the illegal intermediary means through which funds are siphoned off.
To cover maximum citizens under Aadhaar card, the CM said the state government has procured enough machines so that more number of people can be covered. Also he said DCs have been instructed to help people avail Jan Dhan scheme and open bank accounts.
AUPOs stage dharna against deputation culture of govt
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: The Assistant Urban Programme Officers (AUPOs) and Surveyors working under the department of Urban Development on Tuesday staged dharna at tennis court, IG Park against posting of engineers from other department into UD on deputation basis. Holding placards and banners, the officials under the banner of Assistant Urban Programme Officers Welfare Forum alleged that recently a junior engineer from PWD has been brought in as Urban Programme Officer (Assistant Engineer) into UD department.
They termed the move as grave injustice to the AUPOs working in department for the last many years and who are awaiting promotion.
"One Bamang Rai working as JE (PWD) has been brought in as Urban Programme Officer (UPO) on deputation basis. It is also learnt that one Toko Tatam has been appointed as AUPO on deputation basis. The authority has sabotaged the trust and harmony of all peaceful working AUPOs. This step-motherly attitude towards the working AUPOs of the department is demoralizing the working spirit of all the AUPOs which would ultimately affect the very work culture of the department in near future," the AUPO's stated.
They warned that deputation culture will not be tolerated anymore and appealed to the authorities to reverse decision at the earliest. They demanded urgent repatriation of two people appointed on deputation to their parent department and sought immediate promotion of senior AUPOs & Surveyors to vacant UPO & AUPO post. The forum also called for yearly conduct of DPC. They warned of more rigorous movement if authorities failed to respond to their demands.
AR destroys NSCN (K) camp in Changlang
CHANGLANG, Dec 13: The Changlang Battalion of 14 Assam Rifles under the aegis of Dao Division destroyed a camp of NSCN (K), which was established in dense forest near Phenbiro village in Changlang district.
The security forces were able to destroy the core activity camp of the banned group after 48-hour of daring operation at 2 pm on December 11, according to an army release.
A large cache of warlike stores, like radio set with spare battery, live AK 47 rounds, insurgent combat uniforms, belts, backpack and a large quantity of rations were recovered and destroyed along with three living shelters and a sentry post.
The recovered stores are being handed over to police authorities at Manmao.
The operation caused a major setback to the NSCN ( K ) group codenamed 'Himalayan' and came as great relief for the extortion plagued local population of the area, the release claimed. DIPRO
Tajom Talo sworn-in as new APPSC Chairman
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: Retired IAS officer Tajom Talo was sworn-in as the new Chairman of Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC).
Governor of Arunachal Pradesh V. Shanmuganathan administered the oath of office and secrecy to Talo in a function in the Gandhi Hall of Raj Bhavan here on Tuesday.
Talo succeeded former Chairman Dr. Ligu Tacho.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Cabinet Ministers, former Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, members of State Legislative Assembly attended the function. PRO to Raj Bhawan
Political Evolution of Arunachal Pradesh
[ By Kago Gambo, Bari Dabi and N Pramanik ]
According to the provisional 2011 Census, there are 16 districts (21 as of now), 29 Additional deputy commissioner headquarters, 10 sub-divisional officer headquarters, 28 Extra Assistant Commissioner Headquarters, 110 Circles, 27 Census Towns and 99 Community Development/Integrated Rural Development Blocks in Arunachal Pradesh. There are 3863 inhabited Villages, 204953 occupied residential houses and 215574 Households in the state as per 2001 Census.
Arunachal Pradesh was once an un-administered land; neither ruled by Ahom kings nor reigned by British regime. It attained its full-fledged statehood status through different stages of political and administrative development. The erstwhile North East Frontier Tracts/North East Frontier Agency (now Arunachal Pradesh) was part of the greater Assam State until January 21, 1972 although administratively it had a separate entity. A formal pattern of administration of the area, which came to be known as Arunachal Pradesh, started with the promulgation of Notification in 1914 by the then Government of India's Foreign and Political Department. The Notification prescribed that the Assam Frontier Tracts Regulation of 1880 would extend to the hills inhabited or frequented by the frontier tribesmen. With the extension of the Regulation of 1880 the hill areas were separated from the then Darrang and Lakhimpur districts of the greater Assam and the same were made into a separate area called 'North East Frontier Tracts'. These Tracts might be considered as the nucleus of the territorial and jurisdictional pattern of present Arunachal Pradesh.
These Frontier Tracts were under the administrative and political control of the then Governor/Chief Commissioner of Assam till 1937. It was administered by Governor of Assam under section 92 of the Government of India Act, 1935 through the Political Officers and the Deputy Commissioner of Lakhimpur; acting in his discretion independently of his cabinet from 1937 to 1947. Since 1947, the area was administered by the Governor of Assam on the advice of his cabinet and as per his discretion till 25th January 1950 as per India (Provisional Constitution) Order of 15th August, 1947. When the Indian Constitution came into force on 26th January 1950, this area was administered by the Governor of Assam as agent of the President of India and in his discretion as per provisions of Paragraph 18 of the sixth schedule of the Constitution. As per section 31(a) of the North-East Frontier Areas (Administration) Regulation, 1954, the area under the North East Frontier Tracts (NEFTs) was renamed as the North East Frontier Agency (NEFA). Boundaries of the existing administrative units too were reorganized and the six Frontier Divisions were created. Out of the six, the Tuensang Frontier Division was separated from NEFA in 1957 and was transferred to the newly constituted administrative unit then called Naga Hills-Tuensang Area (now Nagaland). As per North-East Frontier Agency (Administration) Regulation, 1965, the remaining five Divisions were renamed as Districts.
The NEFTs/NEFA was administered under the charge of Ministry of External Affairs of India till 1965. It was administered under the charge of Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India from 1965 to 1967. Meanwhile, in the year 1962 China invaded India; after which NEFA came to limelight and the Government of India came to realize its strategic importance. Since that year the Government of India changed its administrative policy towards NEFA and decided to pay especial and continuous attention towards the overall development of the same (now Arunachal Pradesh). Popular participation is involved in the administration of Arunachal Pradesh since the enforcement of the Panchayati Raj in 1969. The Panchayati Raj was introduced by enacting the NEFA Panchayat Raj Regulation, 1967; which was recommended by Daying Ering Committee. The newly introduced Panchayati Raj was a four-tier one, namely; Gram Panchayat at village level, Anchal Samiti at block level, Zila Parishad at district level and indirectly-elected Agency Council at the apex-the Agency/territory level.
The Agency Council was changed as Pradesh Council in 1972. It became the provisional Legislative Assembly of Union Territory of Arunachal Pradesh in 1975; out of which a provisional Council of Ministers was constituted. The first ever general election to the Union Territory Legislature was held in February, 1977. Subsequently, Arunachal Pradesh which was Union Territory since 20th January, 1972, was elevated to the status of a full-fledged state on 20th February, 1987. At present there is a strong-member Legislative Assembly in Arunachal Pradesh which represents the 1382611 population.
(The writers are assistant professors in Dera Natung Govt College, Itanagar in political science, zoology and chemistry subjects respectively)
DHS reviews implementation of health progs
SEPPA, Dec 13: District Health Society of East Kameng district on Tuesday reviewed the status and target achieved under various health programmes by the Health Department during the 1st and 2nd quarters of this financial year and chalked out future strategies under National Health Mission.
DMO Dr. C L Mallo requested the health officials and staff to cooperate and coordinate for better implementation of all health programmes. Cautioning against any negligence, she said that disciplinary action will be taken against those found guilty of dereliction of duty.
She requested the ANM and ASHA facilitators and other concerned to make timely report of any kind of medico-related cases occurring in their respective area of duties. She directed to prepare and forward necessary indents for items required in health facilities.
While expressing satisfaction on good performance, EAC L Thungon exhorted the health fraternity to work in tandem for better outcome of any health schemes.
Citing the recent fire accident in a hospital in Bhubaneshwar, he suggested for installation of fire-fighting system and equipments in every health facilities. He also urged the ANMs, ASHAs and health fraternity present to work sincerely.
Earlier, DPM Jini Natung highlighted the target and achievements made under various activities pertaining to reproductive health and child immunization in the district. Block-wise, she presented the data regarding ANC registrations, institutional deliveries, volume of incentives disbursed under JSY, percentage coverage in immunization and others.
Illustrating about the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC&PCDT) Act, she informed that no incident of violation of the provisions of the Act has been reported to the department so far.
She further highlighted about the block-wise status of ASHA Facilitators (AFs) and their meeting and training programme and reports on ASHA level meetings.
She also presented reports on Village Health & Nutrition Day (VHND) and Village Health Sanitation & Nutrition Committee (VHSNC) meetings. She urged all concerned to submit micro plan for 4th phase of MI and Aadhaar card linking of beneficiaries by January 10, 2017 and December 31, 2016 respectively.
Dr. K Gyadi briefed about the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and its objectives.
DVBDCO Dr. A Rimo informed about the coverage area, and status of human resources, health facility and epidemiological pattern under National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme,
State RMNCH+A Coordinator (UNICEF Supported) Dr. Pinaki Sensharma briefed about the aims and objectives of the Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCH+A) and its genesis.
Appreciating the performance, State RMNCH+A Coordinator (UNICEF Supported) Dr. Muktesh Rajyaguru advised for rectification of discrepancy in indicators and suggested for devising a format for complete and correct data input.
DRCHO Dr. K Lapung, DANO Dr S K Suman, and MO Dr. K Sopin DRCHO also took part in the discussion. GNMs, ANMs, ASHAs, AFs, and other health staffs were also present in the meeting. DIPRO
APSCW conducts legal awareness prog. at Seppa
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: As part of a series of state-wide awareness campaigns being conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women, (APSCW) Itanagar under the sponsorship of National Commission for Women, (NCW), New Delhi, a two-day long legal awareness programme was conducted at Seppa, East Kameng from Dec 8 to 9 last.
The programme covered topics like; Bonded Labour & Child Labour, Child Marriage and Force Marriage, Domestic Violence Act.2005, Polygamy and Compulsory Marriage Registration, Livelihood, Free Legal Aid & Rights of Women and POCSO Act, 2012.
Addressing a gathering on the occasion, East Kameng DC in-charge, T Messer said that since 1980s the GoAP had adopted a lots of welfare scheme for the welfare of Puroik community and established homes/rehabilitation camps and it was successful under pre-settlement scheme of Puroik, especially in Rebe village and Wai village. He further urged all to approach to the Magistrate, Police and NGOs for immediate intervention to report any cases of domestic violence. He further stated that the order pronounced by the Commission must be complied so that the work load of Magistrate shall reduce.
Seppa, Labour Officer, Ashok Sonam in his address disclosed that bonded labour and child labour is still found in East Kameng district. 'The GoI has initiated various measures for the welfare and upliftment of bonded labour and abolished the system of bonded labour. The government has also kept 5% reservation in services, however no one had turned up to avail the welfare scheme', he informed.
Former Minister, Hari Natung emphasized the need to organize such legal awareness programmes in schools to make people aware of their rights.
Assistant Professor from Himalayan University, Itanagar Ripe Bagra who was the resource person explained about Domestic Violence Act. 2005, women helpline and free legal aid in detail.
APSCW, Itanagar, Member Secretary, Yame Higio in her address highlighted the gathering about the power and functions of the Commission while, APSCW, Chairperson, Mitali Tingkhatra spoke about polygamy and compulsory registration of marriage and urged all to change their mindset. She further stated that the registration of marriage can avoid the practice of polygamy in the society.
Resource Person, Seppa, ADTH, Toko Okey also spoke on the occasion.
The APSCW team also visited the Seppa Police Station and interacted with the lady SI, Amo Pansa. The SI informed that there was shortage of lady police constable and female doctor in the district hqtrs making it difficult to handle Juvenile/POCSO Act. 2012 cases.
DC in charge Seppa, T Messer, Labour Officer, Seppa, Ashok Sonam, ADTH Seppa, Toko Okey, public leaders, Women Welfare Organization, Seppa, Mothers Group, CAS NGOs and students from GHSS, Bazar Line were also present on the occasion.
Kaso formally inaugurates GHSS Arunodaya
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: Parliamentary Secretary (UD and Town Planning, Housing & ULB) Techi Kaso on Tuesday formally inaugurated the Govt. Higher Secondary School Arunodaya here.
Speaking after the inauguration, Kaso advised the students to work hard and dedicate themselves in career building so that they can serve the society in the future.
He said that the parents and guardians always have high expectations from their children and it is the right time and age to get the quality education with sincerity, devotion and dedication to achieve the desired goal.
The Parliamentary Secretary also requested the teachers to dedicate themselves for the greater cause of development of human resource.
Responding to memorandum, he assured to propose a classroom building for the school in the next financial year and will try to complete it before next assembly election.
Councillor (Ward No-5) Taba Yall Nabam delivered few piece of advice to the students asking them to be sincere, punctual and devote themselves in their studies. She urged the teaching community to refrain from indulging in politics in the matter of transfer and posting which hampers the quality education.
She assured to provide sanitation facility in the school from IMC on top priority.
School Managing Committee vice chairman Techi Tapum, Managing Committee Member Nabam Naku, vice principal M Borang also addressed the gathering.
The school was established as Primary School in 1983. It was upgraded to Middle, Secondary and finally, to Higher Secondary level, but there was no official inauguration.
DDSE Capital Mallo Yam Gollo, EE, Power Capital (electrical) Nido Taka, IMC Councillor Tatung Tania, Gora Tallang, teachers, students and people of the locality area were present on the occasion.
Businessmen, entrepreneurs urged to invest within state
ITANAGAR, Nov 13: Itanagar Municipality Council (IMC) chief councillor Kipa Kaku on Tuesday called upon all the businessmen and entrepreneurs of the state to start investing their cash and implementing their concepts in and around the state instead of going out.
More the people start investing in our state, the more it will open job opportunities for hundreds of our unemployed youths, said Kaku as she inaugurated a multi-brand showroom at Itanagar today.
Lauding the initiative of showroom proprietor Tadar Meena Gyamar for opening an outlet in the state capital which serves to the needs of all, Kaku opined that with the opening of more stores like these, people would not have to go far to meet their shopping needs.
Located near the Pybss Hotel (opposite to BB Plaza), Tadar Meena's multi-brand showroom houses a variety of clothes, footwear and accessories from brands like Puma, Converse, and Champion. Early bird discounts are also up for grab for the shopaholics.
Former education minister T Kipa, councilors from the IMC and a host of other dignitaries were also present in the inauguration ceremony.
APPDSSU reiterates demand
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: All Pakke-Kessang Pijerang Dissing-Passo Seijosa Students' Union (APPDSSU) has reiterated demand to evict all the encroachers of school lands in Pekke-Kessang, Passa Valley and Pijerang circles within 10 days.
In a complaint letter to the East Kameng Deputy Commissioner, the students' union claimed that many buildings have been constructed illegally in encroached lands by some individuals and government departments, including Tourism, Veterinary and Animal Husbandry, Women and Child Development etc.
The affected schools were Govt. Sec. School Pakke-Kessang, Govt. Middle School Rilloh, Pakro Middle School, Govt. Primary School, Keko, the students' union informed.
"A Tourist Lodge and a Community Hall have been constructed illegally within the school premises of Govt. Middle School, Rilloh. The Department of Veterinary & Animal Husbandry constructed its office within the school premises Govt. Middle School Veo while the Department of Women and Child Development has constructed an Anganwadi Centre in the premises at Govt. Primary School, Keko, the students' union claimed.
It also informed that most of the schools do not have proper boundary.
Many complaints regarding school land encroachment were lodged earlier with the Deputy Commissioner, EAC, Pakke-Kessang, Circle Officers of Passa and Pijerang; but to no avail, the letter said, adding that failing to free the school lands from the encroachers will compel the students to resort to democratic movement.
Ex MLA donates transformers to Damin circle
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: Former Koloriang MLA Lokam Tasar has donated two nos of Transformer for Damin Circle, in Kurung Kumey district, which was airlifted with electricians and tools on Monday.
"Many transformers in Damin circle have been burnt down due to electrical defects and others were beyond repairable condition. There was an urgent need of transformer as the area was reeling under darkness," informed the ex MLA.
ALDSU provides relief to poor widow
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: All Lohit District Students' Union (ALDSU) provided some relief items to a poor widow, whose dwelling house in Tillai village under Wakro circle was devoured by fire on December 1.
A team of the students union met victim Balepsi Minin on December 11 and provided some ration items, cloths and utensils.
According to the union, the poor woman has not yet received any help from the authority.
The union apprised the district administration about the plight of the widow and her two children and appealed to the government to provide necessary help and assistance to them for their rehabilitation.
Free health camp
PALIN, Dec 13: A free medical camp was organized by Kra Daadi District Health Society at Tarak Langdi village under Chambang on December 12, wherein more than 100 patients were treated and 25 children immunized.
The day-long health camp reached out to far flung villagers where healthcare facilities are not available.
The camp was conducted by a team of doctors, including Dr. Habung Ampi, MO CHC Palin, Dr. Hage Ampi, MO, PHC Pania, Dr. Maru Taro, DANO Kra Daadi and Dr. M. Pangkam, DRCHO, Kra Daadi. DIPRO
DLIC meeting on district irrigation plan held
YINGKIONG, Dec 13: A District Level Implementing Committee meeting was held on Monday at the DC's Conference Hall in order to evolve a strategic action plan for district irrigation plan on PMKSY here.
CO, Nancy Yirang who presided over the meeting urged all the stakeholders to prepare the plan in consultation with each other taking the confidence of the farmers for successful implantation of the PMKSY scheme.
She also asked the stakeholders to consider upgrading the already used land for better production.
While giving a power point presentation, NABCONS officials said that due care should be given on preparing District Irrigation Plan according to which the fund shall flow for next 4 years. He also explained all about the contents of 5 Chapter under District Irrigation and ways to prepare it.
ZPC, Apel Modi stressed on physical verification and field visit during the course of preparation of the plan and conducting awareness campaign at the grassroots level about the scheme.
ZPM, Bading Teng said that land is static whereas population is increasing and the need of the hour is to increase productivity in all sectors to cope up with the increasing population. (DIPRO)
Eviction drive condemned
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: The Save Arunachal Youth Association (SAYA) has condemned the state government and highway department in particular, for carrying out eviction drive along NH415, claiming that the authorities have yet to award compensation to the affected persons.
The association has in a release on Tuesday further urged the highway department to first clear the all the compensation due amount of the land affected persons along the NH415 instead of carrying out the eviction drive.
Society demands separate ZPM seat for Lada circle
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: The Nedo Welfare Society (NWS) has demanded for a separate ZPM seat for Lada circle in East Kameng district.
There are only two blocks in Bameng constituency in which Lada circle falls under Bameng West block. It is almost impossible to contest for ZPM seat from Lada circle particularly from our backward community, it reasoned in its memorandum submitted to the RWD, home and labour and employment minister.
The society's other demands include inclusion of Kojo to Nabolang road under PMGSY scheme and creation of Anchal segment at Lada township.
World soil day celebrated
CHANGLANG, Dec 13: The Department of Agriculture celebrated World Soil Day on Dec 5 last involving the farmers, public in presence of Govt officials at Jairampur.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Director, Agriculture, L Hondique informed about Soil Health Card Scheme which issues Soil Health Cards to all the farmers in the cycle of three years to help them to get a good harvest by studying the quality of the soil.
Hondique further informed that soil procured from the district is being tested at the static Soil Testing Laboratory, Changlang and that the Soil Health Cards issued to them contains details of the farmer along with its location, soil analysis, report, recommendation and suggestion.
The programme was attended by ZPM Tusam Longri as Chief Guest, ADC, Jairampur as Guest of Honour, Dr N Kumar, PC, KVK jairampur along with staff of Ageiculture Department.
Condolence
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: The Garbu Abu Welfare Society (GAWS) has mourned the demise of Tade Taku of Old Medical colony, Seppa who passed away on Dec 10 last.
Late Taku left behind his wife, three sons and a daughter.
The society also condoled the death of Yagum Taku who passed away on Dec 12 leaving behind her husband and children.
Three patients operated upon during free med camp
CHANGLANG, Dec 13: Three patients were operated upon for appendix and gall bladder stone during a free operation medical camp organized by VKV Arunjyoti in collaboration with the District Health and Family Welfare, at district hospital here on Monday last.
Earlier, in his inaugural address, Parliamentary Secretary for Hydro Power, Phosum Khimhun lauded the organization for conducting the camp and urged them to continue with the yeoman services in the district.
Incharge DC SDO, N Wangjen also advised for follow up action of the operated cases and asked patients to keep in contact with surgeons for necessary consultation if required while, Dr. H Tangjang allayed the post operative fear expressed and said that the staff of district hospital are competent to take care of any post operative cases.
The team of doctors comprising of a surgeon from America, Dr. Kutub Nadaf and Anesthetist, Dr. Sumir Kr Saikia along with team members.
APPDSU supports AGF demands
ITANAGAR, Dec 13: All Papum Pare District Students' Union (APPDSU) supported the 5-point demand placed before Education Minister by Arunachal Green Foundation (AGF) for establishment of Arunachal University, Educational Institute for differently abled students, shifting of CBSE office at Itanagar and installation of CCTV cameras in all the Government schools and colleges.
APPDSU appealed to the Education Minister to consider the demands for the betterment of the students' community.
Workshop cum counseling prog
PANGIN, Dec 13: A workshop on tourism cum counseling programme for school children on theme 'Catch them young' was conducted at Govt. Secondary School Riga on Monday.
The children were taught moral values, given personality development, character building and time management tips, etc during the daylong workshop. The children were also sensitized on tourism industry and its scopes in the state.
Siang DDSE Oduk Tabing, DTO TK Kopak, DAEO Taram Mize, BRCC Tamang Tamut and Headmaster GSS Riga Taben Yosung spoke.
The programme was organized by Department of Tourism and Department of Education Siang District.
Editorial
Disturbing news
The report that students of Government Polytechnic College, Roing boycotted the semester
examination alleging non-
The colleges have been opened without any proper infrastructure and required man power. Showing utter lack of professionalism, the education department has completely messed up everything. There seems to have no proper planning and everything has been done haphazardly. Sadly politics played major part at the time of establishment of these new colleges. The education department is now finding it extremely difficult to manage the newly opened colleges due to shortage of manpower. The problem will manifold in coming days as department is planning to start some more colleges. Still there is time to set things in order. Instead of opening so many colleges, the government must concrete in improving the existing colleges and emphasize on giving quality education. Situation like the one witnessed at Government Polytechnic College, Roing will be become common thing if education department does not do course correction. In the name of equity development, the education sector should not be destroyed. It's time education department look into the issue so that future of our students remains safe and secure.
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Readers’ Forum
Verify the veracity of news
Dear Editor,
Given the magnitude of false news items that were doing the rounds in social media during the 2016 US Presidential campaign; a part of Facebook, Twitter et al., appear to be in the shoes of Joseph Goebbels who said, "A lie told once remains a lie but a lie told a thousand times becomes the truth." The chemistry of a repeatedly told lie becoming truth is inherent in our potentiality for obedience. According to American psychologist, Stanley Milgram, human potential for obedience is the prerequisite for social organisation but this potentiality can also come to a sticky end as human vulnerability to tyranny. Indeed, tyranny is based on mass obedience. So, our obedience must be combined with a spirit of inquiry. Otherwise, our gullibility can reduce democracy to dictatorship and nationalism to jingoistic hysteria. We need to verify the veracity of a news story before believing the same to stop the juggernaut of such social media.
Yours,
Sujit De, Kolkata
Revert the electricity billing system
Dear Editor,
I would like to bring to notice of the state Government through your esteemed daily regarding abrupt and unjustified increase in consumption rate of electricity in the quarters and houses where the department of power could not install meters.
Earlier, there was reasonable consumption rate from 80 units to 150 unit but all of a sudden the Capital Electrical Division has increased the fixed consumption rate by 250% to 300% p.m without approval of Cabinet or Council of Ministers from February, 2016.
The bills have been issued for Chandranagar Forest Colony as follows barrack 1-
As a result, the matter has been brought to DC, ICC who has directed EE (E) to follow only State Government order but surprisingly on inquiry, a letter dtd.19.5.2016 found to have been issued by a EE (E) to his JEs to prepare bills as per aforesaid rates without notifying in the news paper but it does not provide Meters in spite of direction of the DC to rectify the bills. Though there is some discretionary power with department of Power to enhance the revenue rate but such rate must have prior consent of the Government/Cabinet of Council of Ministers and proper discussion in the legislative Assembly before formulating any rates of revenue.
It is not understood whether earlier formulation of average fixed rate was wrong.
Quarters are same and switch points are same then where was need to increase the
consumption rate under pretext of l0 hour’s use of each bulbs, fans and power points
in a quarter when royalty rate is charged as per current royalty rate @ 4/-
A welfare Government cannot depend on such unjustified and baseless revenue, illegally collected from citizens. Moreover, the uniform rate has not been implemented in all the colonies or in the districts. There should be uniform rate throughout the State.
Now, the EE (E) also notified for collection of revenue of inflated rates and disconnection drive from 15th December, 2016 by giving only seven days time as published yesterday in news papers.
I appeal to the CM to intervene and stop such forceful collection of unjustified revenue and oppression on common people.
I should say every decision in public interest should have human face in the democratic country. The Department sleeping for months together without consulting with consumers has increased the consumption rate where as it could not provide Post Paid meters.
Whenever you ask for Meter, they do inform that they have no stock of Meters. It is questionable where those meters purchased for crores of rupees against all the households have been vanished.
The DC also ordered for public awareness campaign for resolving the disputes and installation of meters as remedy but it has not been complied with till date.
Now, question is whether the above fixation of consumption rate instead of continuing with old rate of consumption is justified?
So, I appeal to CM to direct the authority to stop disconnection and revert our pending bills from February, 2016 onwards to our old rate of consumption for unmetered till installation of meters in every household throughout the State.
Yours,
A consumer
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