December 19
2016
6 awards for Mwngkar at Nyishi Film Awards-2016
Staff Reporter
NIRJULI, Dec 16: The three-day long 2nd Nyishi Art and Cultural Festival and Nyishi Film Awards 2016 cum 3rd General Conference of the Nyishi Art and Cultural Welfare Society (NACWS) which concluded at the Nyikum Niya Hall here on Sunday saw 'Mwngkar' , a Nyishi feature film bag awards in six different categories.
Mwngkar, produced by Film Federation of Arunachal (FFA) cum Arunachal Press Club (APC) president Chopa Cheda was not only awarded with the Best Film 2015-2016 title, but its director Sambo Flago also grabbed the award for the Best Director and Best Editor. Where lead actor of Mwngkar Taba Reena walked away with the award for Best Actor (female), Poli Lui Tamin was adjudged the best actor (female) in a negative role. Reema Konia was awarded best actor (female) in comedy role.
The other award winners on the day were Tai Tagung (Best Actor Male) Yumte Taba (Best Actor in supporting role), Bengia Biron (Best Singer Male), Pebi Ado Bamang (Best Singer Female), Bengia Tolum (Best Lyricist).
Nabam Tata, the first actor from Nyishi community who played a role in Arunachal's first film "Meri Maa Mera Dharam" was felicitated with the 2nd life time achievement award while Nangbia Chanda walked away with the Upcoming Talent award.
Prizes were also distributed to the winners of sport & games and cultural competition. In Archery caterogy Rungka Cheda of East Kameng stands first and Papumpare 2nd. Bamboo Walking (Dele Dala in local): Kra-Daadi won the first position while Upper Subansiri secured second position. Long jump: 1st Kra-Daadi, 2nd Papumpare. Tug of War: 1st Kra-Daadi. War Dance: 1st Kra-Daadi and in Folk dance Lower Subansiri secured the Ist positon and Kurung Kumey won the 2nd prize.
Earlier, while attending the valedictory function as chief guest, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj minister Tanga Byaling called upon the brethrens of the Nyishi community to protect and preserve one's tradition and culture for the greater interest of the coming generation. In his address as guest of honour, Nyishi Elite Society (NES) vice president (western zone) Techi Toko appealed the organizing committee NACWS and central executive members of Nyokum festival to invite artists from within the state to perform in such big festivals and programmes.
"We have many talented artists such as singers and dancers in the state who can perform well, so instead of inviting people from other states why don't we give a chance to those talented among us," added Techi.
The day also saw the 3rd general conference of NACWS being held in which present chairman of NACWS Bengia Tabb was re-elected to his position. Meanwhile, Toko Teni would lead the NACWS as its general secretary.
Regional Review meeting on NVBDCP held
Recruitment to all sanctioned contractual posts under NVBDCP soon: Kena
ITANGAR, Dec 18: Recruitment to all sanctioned contractual posts under National Vector Borne Disease Control Program (NVBDCP) will start soon. This was announced by the Health & Family Welfare Minister Jomde Kena while addressing at the valedictory function of three-day long Regional Review Meeting (RRM) on NVBDCP) which concluded at a city hotel here on Dec 16.
Mentioning that rational deployment of manpower is a problem that is plaguing the state, he informed that the Govt. is planning to functionalize 80 percent of sub centres in the state by March 2017 by deploying requisite manpower.
He assured all possible help from state govt. towards achieving the goal of malaria elimination by 2030 and appealed Govt of India to ensure release of adequate and timely funds for strengthening NVBDCP activities in the state.
Earlier on Dec 14, Special Secretary Health and Family Welfare, Prince Dhawan, while inaugurating the meeting stated that health and education are committed priority of state government.
He believed that Arunachal, which is presently a category 3 state under IMCP 3, has the potential to jump from category 3 to category 2.
Speaking on rational distribution of manpower, he said such a decision would be taken up after liaising with stakeholders, including the political level.
In his welcome address, Director Health Services Dr Moji Jini stated that although cases of malaria, Dengue and JE have been contained to certain extent, some other diseases such as Scrub Typhus have started occurring. The Director probed if Scrub Typhus could be considered for taking up under the banner of NVBDCP.
Additional Director of NVBDCP, Govt of India, Dr Avdhesh Kumar made highlights on the objectives and target goals of NVBDCP for which Govt of India gets supports from global funding. He mentioned that Arunachal Pradesh being a very vast area geographically would require more number of entomologists to cover the whole state and required creation of more Entomologist posts. Also speaking on rational deployment of manpower, he promised to support any genuine and justifiable demands from the state.
Regarding requirement/demand for training institute, he urged to go for long term plan by which the training requirements of the state are adequately catered to.
Joint Director Health Services cum State Program Officer, Dr Allok Yirang gave an overview of the malarial epidemiology in the state. Describing the manpower status in the state, he said that the state has created sufficient posts of MPWs and absorbed all the contractual MPWs who were working under IMCP 2.
While offering vote of thanks to the delegates, Mission Director NHM, PN Thungon spoke on the necessity of coordination of activities in all levels of the health system. He also spoke on releasing funds required for managing the health programs at the earliest. Emphasizing on the necessity of timely release of funds, he assured that there will be no delay in release of fund at his level.
The gathering condoled the untimely demise of Mobia Bado, District Vector Borne Disease Consultant East Kameng, who expired on Dec 16 due to terminal illness and observed 2 minutes silence to pray for the eternal peace of his soul.
Delegates from seven North Eastern States, UNICEF, Global Fund Team, The Union, Caritas India Consortium, among others, attended the meeting.
A reason to cheer about
Monday Musing
[ Appu Gapak ]
"Where are you from?" the often asked question.
"From Arunachal Pradesh," I reply.
"Arunachal Pradesh?! Is it in India?" the reaction.
This is a kind of conversation we all have experienced atleast once. We are often confused for Chinese or Nepali. But, come New Year and this should all be a thing of the past.
With initial plan to launch on Dec 25 next, DD Arun-Prabha - a dedicated channel for Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim is now all set to hit the television sets from January which will be platform for the rich and diverse culture of the two states. It will be uplinked from Itanagar.
According to Information and Broadcasting ministry, the primary focus will be on viewers of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim but will have content for other states of the region as well. Shows in Hindi and English apart from the local language will be shown as the aim is to come up with a northeast channel which also has a national connect.
This will be Doordarshan's second channel for the North East after DD North-East.
Arunachal with no television channel to call its own, launch of the channel will be a reason for the frontier state to cheer about. No television channel had also been one of the reasons why most of the mainland Indians ceased to know about us. This lack of information has often led to racial violence and hate crimes against people from North Eastern region.
Recently, the Supreme Court passed a slew of directions, including setting up of a three-member panel headed by a Joint Secretary-level officer, to enhance a sense of security and inclusion of the people from north-eastern states who faced racial violence and hate crimes. The court also directed the government that the effective monitoring mechanism suggested by the M P Bezbaruah Committee in its report should be implemented.
"We are of the view that in order to enhance a sense of security and inclusion, …the Ministry of Home Affairs should take proactive steps to monitor the redressal of issues pertaining to racial discrimination faced by citizens of the nation drawn from the Northeast," Chief Justice T S Thakur had observed.
In the prevailing situation of uncertainty against the people from the region, the coming of DD Arun-Prabha would be a blessing in disguise. It is hoped that the more and more people will get to know about the diversities not only in culture but appearance as well. They need to know that all Indians do not possess 'big eyes and sharp nose' and that people with 'small eyes and flat nose' are equally Indians.
Medical camps by mobile medical unit
KHONSA, Dec 18: The Mobile Medical Unit of Tirap District Health Society, Khonsa organized a medical camp at Upper Kolam village on December 17.
The total number of patients treated during the camp was 260 out of which 54 were dental cases. 62 children and four pregnant women were given vaccination and antenatal care under the supervision of Tirap DMO.
Khonsa East MLA Wanglam Sawin and Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha inspected the health camp, which was set up at newly upgraded Govt. Secondary School in Upper Kolam village.
Earlier, interacting with the students at Kolam, Sawin urged the students to channelize their youthful energy in proper direction by avoiding indulging in unlawful and unproductive activities.
The MLA distributed sports materials like, Badminton and Football sets with Jersey for two teams, Volleyball sets and Carom Board sets in presence of the DC and DDSE.
A similar camp was conducted in the previous day at Dadam, wherein 63 patients, including 22 children were treated.
The medical team led by District Medical Officer Dr. Neeba Lowang was accompanied by Medicine Specialist (1), Dental Surgeon (1), GNM (1), Pharmacist (1), Ayush Doctor (1), Health Assistant (2) and Programme Manager, NHM.
Three JSY payment were also made by DMO Dr. N. Lowang. Free pickups and drop backs were also provided to emergency patients.
The Chief of Dadam village Wanggo Lowang appreciated District Health Society for their services to the poor patients of Dadam and its nearby villages. DIPRO
ANSU irked with CS’s mentioning of Hollongi as refugee area
ITANAGAR, Dec 18: The All Nyishi Students' Union (ANSU) has condemned chief secretary for mentioning Hollongi as the territory of Chakma and Hajong refugee in her letter to Secretary (Civil Aviation) Airport Authority of India (AAI), GoI on June 22. Saying that Hollongi is a Nyishi dominated area, it asked her to withdraw the statement saying it has hurt its sentiment.
The union further blamed MoS Kiren Rijiju for the delay in the coming up of Greenfield Airport in the state.
"Delay in sanctioning compensation money and construction of green airport is because of political vendetta and weakness of MoS for Home Kiren Rijiju. It is the duty and responsibility of the MoS to take care of the interest of Arunachal Pradesh. But instead of working for the development of Arunachal Pradesh, he is playing political vendetta in green field airport issue. It should not be made political issue as it would divide our people and hurdle the development of the state," it said.
The union urged Airport Authority of India (AAI) to start land acquisition for the construction of the airport project by selecting the most feasibility site.
2016, a watershed year in Arunachal political history
ITANAGAR, Dec 18: 2016 turned out to be a watershed year in the political history of Arunachal Pradesh as it plunged into months-long political turmoil that saw three chief ministers in a short span besides imposition of President's rule for a brief period.
In the long-drawn political drama, Governor J P Rajkhowa was dismissed on September 22. Observers say this was apparently because he had failed to "ensure a lasting BJP-led or BJP-blessed government" in the state.
Dasanglu Pul, the third wife of former chief minister Kalikho Pul won the November 19 bye-election to Hayuliang constituency on a BJP ticket. The bypoll was held following the death of Kalikho Pul. He was found hanging inside the chief minister's official bungalow on August 9, which he was yet to vacate.
A power scam amounting to Rs 450 crore also surfaced in the state in which allegations of corruption were levelled against Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju.
Opposition Congress demanded ouster of Rijiju from the union council of ministers and a CBI probe even as the BJP leader denied the allegations.
Tragedy in form of landslides and accidents also struck the state during the year claiming over 30 lives.
The political crisis in the frontier state stemmed from the ouster of Pul from the Council of Ministers in April 2015.
Soon after his exit, Pul went about spilling the beans on the poor financial health of the state under the then Chief Minister Nabam Tuki's leadership.
Pul was also terminated from Congress though he managed to get a stay on the same from the courts.
Soon some more legislators from the total 47 Congress members joined him in demanding a change in leadership.
The crisis deepened after President Pranab Mukherjee on January 26 gave his approval to the cabinet's recommendation for the state to be put under President's rule.
On January 5, the Gauhati High Court stayed disqualification of 14 Congress MLAs while on January 6,the Supreme Court agreed to hear plea of the Arunachal Speaker, removed by rebel MLAs.
The apex court on January 13 ordered not to hold any proceedings in the Assembly till January 18 while referring the issue to a Constitution Bench the next day. The Supreme Court on January 15 started examining constitutional scope of discretionary powers of the Governor.
On February 18, the apex court satisfied with Gauhati High Court's order staying disqualification of 14 MLAs, paved way for new government in the state.
The court rejected Congress' plea for floor test in the assembly on February 19, the day when President rule was lifted from the state.
Pul was sworn in as the chief minister of the state on February 20.
In a sudden turn of events, the Supreme Court on July 13 while terming Governor's decision as 'unconstitutional' ordered restoration of Tuki-led Congress government in the state.
Tuki, however, almost immediately stepped down, making way for Pema Khandu to take charge of the Congress government on July 16.
Exactly two months after the apex court restored the Congress government in the state, the BJP on September 16 pulled the carpet from below the ruling party's feet by getting the entire CLP - except former chief minister Tuki - to join the People's Party of Arunachal (PPA), a constituent of the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA).
However, Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President Padi Richo on November challenged the merger of Congress MLAs to PPA in the Itanagar permanent bench of Gauhati High Court and the verdict is yet to be pronounced.
The Congress Legislature Party merging with the PPA came three days after a section of Congress MLAs approaching the BJP central leadership in New Delhi and expressing their desire to merge with it.
The political developments moved so fast that Pul, the man who had led the original rebellion in the Congress was left in the lurch as all his followers too reverted to the Congress within less than 24 hours of the July 13 Supreme Court order. Twenty-four days later, Pul was found hanging.
US Ambassador Richard Verma's visit to Tawang led to China saying it would damage the "hard-earned peace and tranquillity in the China-India border region.
China also protested the visit of Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje to Tawang and West Kameng districts of the state.
On November 17, Chinese Embassy at New Delhi denied visa to Arunachal Pradesh State Badminton Association Secretary Bamang Tago, who was nominated manager of the Indian badminton team for the Thaihot China Open championship in Fuzhou.
Incidents of transgression by Chinese Army into Arunachal's territory were also reported during the year.
The law and order front was also not conducive in the state. Two Assam Rifles jawan were killed and eight others injured when suspected NSCN (K) militants ambushed a convoy of the force near Wakka in Longding district.
In an offensive against militants, Assam Rifles jawans killed two cadres of the ULFA (P) and arrested other two at Vijoypur area in Changlang district.
A minor girl was allegedly raped and killed before her body was thrown into a jungle at Bhalukpong in West Kameng district during July. Another class VI student was allegedly raped by a constable of the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) after he forced her to drink alcohol at Longding in March.
A minor girl was also raped by Chakma refugees in February when she, along with her friends, had gone on a picnic on the banks of the Bereng river at Chowkham in Lohit district.
On the development front, the state government introduced the e-Office suite in the State Civil Secretariat in order to go paperless in functioning of the government. PTI
Block level sports meet of UPS begins at Ruksin
[ Prafulla Kaman ]
RUKSIN, Dec 18: The first 'Block Level Sports Meet' of Govt. Upper Primary Schools of Ruksin block in East Siang began at Govt. HSS playground here on Sunday.
The sports meet includes football (boys and girls), 100m, 200m race, high jump, long jump and throwing events (discus, shot-put and javelin throw).
Twelve teams are participating in the meet, which will conclude on December 20 with distribution of prizes.
The teams were selected on the basis of the performance in the cluster level sport event, which was conducted in three circles last month.
Ruksin Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) T Pada, who inaugurated the sports meet, advised the young players to compete with sportsman spirit with discipline. He assured to give cash prizes to the winner(s) of football competition as well as the best player.
The ADC advised the school children to read books, magazines and journals to gain additional knowledge besides their regular academic studies. He asked the students to participate games and sports and extra- curricular activities for their overall development.
ADC Pada, who was a renowned sportsperson of the state during his school career, asked them to use the opportunity to expose their hidden talents.
Later, he declared the sports meet open lighting the Olympic Torch. Pada also administered pledge to the players for maintaining obedience and discipline during sports meet.
Among others, Block Education Officer (BEO) of Ruksin, Tanyo Tapak, Block Resource Person (match commissioner) of the sports event T Talom, Ruksin ZPM Tonggeng Panyang, Anchal Chairperson Aruni Jamoh and other PRI members and public leaders attended the inaugural function.
Social Service organised as a part of Swachh Survekshan 2017
ITANAGAR, Dec 18: Extending support to Itanagar Municipal Council in keeping the city clean, SMILE-a Ziro based NGO organized social service at Gompa Itanagar under Swachh Survekshan 2017 of Swachh Bharat Mission.
Swachh Suvekshan-2017, launched by the Ministry of Urban Development, aims at assessing and ranking 500 cities and towns based on levels of sanitation and efforts made by respective urban local bodies and also to capture progress towards achieving 'Open Defecation Free' status.
Dr Nani Tamang Jose, Chairman of the NGO informed that the purpose of social service is to support IMC in its effort to keep the city clean and to create awareness that we all have responsibility to make it one of cleanest city in India. He asked its members to take pledge to spread awareness and sensitize people.
Habung Lampung, CMEO also highlighted on Swachh Survekshan and said that such participation of NGO will motivate others.
Dy. Chief Councilor Tarh Nachung urged the city dwellers to develop the sense of belongingness and to keep their city neat and clean.
Councilors Kabak Taka, P Togung and members of Itanagar Buddhist Cultural Society also participated in the cleanliness drive.
Similar social services were also organized at Naharlagun market area by volunteers of Citizens Against Garbage, ABVP and students of G Sector Middle School Naharlagun as a participation towards Swachh Survekshan.
Later, the volunteers while interacting with CMEO and Deputy Chief Councilor of IMC expressed their willingness to spread the message among the fellow citizens that they too have the moral responsibility to keep their city clean.
CMEO Lampung opined that with participation of more and more people in the cleanliness drive Itanagar will soon become one of cleanest cities in India. DIPRO
'Save life' campaign launched
Blood bank inoperative despite facilities: AVYS
ITANAGAR, Dec 18: Though poor and downtrodden sections of Arunachal Pradesh suffer during urgent need of blood, the GoAP is yet to get up from its deep slumber though it claims to have attached top priority to health sector.
The proofs were shockingly visible when a team of Arunachal Vivekananda Yuva Shakti (AVYS) led by its founder-chairman Ramesh Jeke, members Taring Dakme, Hillang Barot and Daporijo unit members visited Upper Subansiri district hospital at Daporijo which painted a pathetic condition.
"The DMO was absent, only blood technician on leave for last three months, a 30-minute blood test takes a day for which doctors prescribe blood test to clinics. But most doctors were absent and it was learnt that the suffering patients go to doctors' doorsteps for treatment", Jeke told AVYS adviser Pradeep Kumar over telephone on Sunday.
"Though all equipments were available, as per blood bank officer, but the blood bank was not made functional for lone blood technician. Patients are referred to Capital hospital to transfuse even a single unit of blood. What a malady? Is this the priority treatment of the health sector", Jeke questioned.
However, the tea team conducted awareness camp at Ligu GHS School, Kuporijo VKV, Daporijo GHSS and Neder Namlo and apprised the massive gathering about the benefits of blood donations before proceeding to Aalo.
AVYS launched the 'save life' mass awareness campaign to ensure none dies due to shortage of blood in the state on being enthused after facilitating the GoAP to win national Award of Excellence-2015 from Union Health Minister J P Nadda for cent percent voluntary blood donation.
Advocating that saving human lives is the greatest social service, state's National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) project director P N Thungon, during a meeting had assured all possible support for the campaign.
As the state needs 15,000 units of blood against annual average collection of 5,000 units, the meeting attended by State Blood Transfusion Council deputy director Dr Nabam Budh, the mission by AVYS, affiliated to Federations of India Blood Donor Organisation (FIBDO), was unanimously approved.
"The AVYS, particularly Jeke, who himself has donated blood 38 times and 350 AVYS young volunteers so far facilitated donation of 26,000 units of blood by conducting 53 voluntary blood donation camps in association with Arunachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society in festivals, religious institutions so far and saved about 7,500 lives including 1,662 on calls from Capital Complex hospitals mostly during odd hours, would continue to receive for this humanitarian mission NRHM", Thungon had assured.
Manipur social activist namedfor Kelkar Youth Award-2016
ITANAGAR, Dec 18: Manipur-based social activist and Animal Gym founder R K Viswajit Singh has been nominated for Professor Yashwantrao Kelkar Youth Award-2016 as decided by Yuva Puraskar-2016 Selection Committee.
Disclosing this today, Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) national executive council member Dr Joram Aniya said that Singh has been selected in recognition of his pioneering work in fighting against drug-addiction and HIV/AIDS among youth through regular exercise and maintaining moral character through spiritual engagement to develop a society free of addiction and healthy youth.
The annual award, collaborative effort of ABVP and Vidyarthi Nidhi Trust, comprising of Rs 50,000 cash, certificate and a memento, is given since 1991, Dr Aniya told while returning from Manipur after attending an ABVP conference.
The award is conferred in memory of late Prof Yashwantrao Kelkar, whose contribution laid the foundation stone of the AVBP which flourished as world's largest students' organization.
Singh will be given the award during inauguration of three-day 62nd ABVP national conference at Indore on December 24 next.
Singh, an award-winning social activist and physical fitness trainer, through his oganisation has done praiseworthy work in freeing hundreds of youth from the shackle of drug addiction besides inspiring thousands to remain fit and healthy as a follower of Swami Vivekananda.
MLA calls for inter-community harmony
KHONSA, Dec 18: MLA Wanglam Sawin urged for inter-community harmony during his visit to Khonsa Town Mosque on Sunday on eve of birth anniversary of HZ Muhammad (S) Milad-un- Nabi.
Addressing the public Sawin said that India is a country where people of different religions, race, culture and tradition live together in perfect harmony without affecting each others feelings and believes proving the concept of unity in diversity.
He urged the community leaders to guide the youths in right direction and spread the teachings of HZ Muhammad (S) Milad-un- Nabi of love and compassion for every human being.
He further advised the youths of the community not to get themselves involve in any kind of negative activities, which may ruin the name of the entire community. Sawin urged to help create a sense of brotherhood which will be instrumental in creating a better environment for our coming generation.
The MLA also stressed the importance of education in life. He assured support from his end to the community for any good causes.
During his interaction with committee members of Khonsa Masjid, Sawin was also apprised of the graveness faced by them due to widening of Highway.
The community leaders hailed Sawin for the various developmental activities initiated by him and extended their support to him. DIPRO
Kaladan: A Sea Gate for India's Northeast!
[ Dr.Jajati K. Pattnaik ]
Kaladan corridor as an important component of Act East policy is poised to link India's North-East with the Southeast Asia through multi modal transit system based on road, river and sea ways. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also described North-East as Natural Economic Zone (NEZ) and has focused upon the region's development through cross country economic corridors. In this context, the Kaladan multimodal Transit Transport (KMTT) corridor could be developed as a potential sea gate for the Northeast.
The corridor is named after river Kaladan which originates in Chin state of Myanmar and passes through the southern districts of Mizoram before falling into the Bay of Bengal. The Ministry of External Affairs of India which acts as the nodal agency for the Kaladan transit corridor signed the Framework of Agreement with the Myanmar Government in 2008 for the implementation of this ambitious project. This transport project would link Kolkata sea port and India's Northeast with the Sittwe Port in Myanmar. The passage covers a total distance of 907 km. As per the DONER road map, the goods are to be transhipped from Kolkata Port in India to Sittwe Port in Myanmar (539 km); from Sittwe to Paletwa by inland water transport (158 km) on river Kaladan; from Paletwa to the India-Myanmar border in Myanmar by road (110 km); and National Highway 54 to Lawngtlai (Mizoram) in India (100 km). Further, Lawngtlai would be connected by road via National Highways to the major Northeastern cities including their state capitals. The following table explains the road map for Northeast-Sittwe multimodal corridor drawn from my field trips and google maps.
Northeast-Sittwe Multimodal Transport Corridor
Map: Northeast-Sittwe Multimodal Transport Corridor
At present, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Essar Group working as the executing agencies of this transport corridor intend towards creating an integrated port and inland water transport (IWT) terminal at Sittwe, smooth navigational channel from Sittwe to Paletwa and highway transshipment terminal at Paletwa. To make sure that, it becomes an active pillar of the country's Act East policy, the Government has approved the revised cost estimate of Rs.2, 904.04 crore for the early completion of this strategic port in the larger interest of India's Northeast. In the long term perspective ,the corridor would not only link Northeast with Myanmar, but also it would link the region with Phuket, Bangkok, Phnom Penh , Saigon ,Penang, Johor and Singapore sea ports securing India's interest in the larger Southeast Asian free trade architecture. As the External affairs Minister Smt.Sushma Swaraj at the inaugural session of Delhi dialogue VII said: "We also have maritime boundaries with several ASEAN countries, and this is particularly important from a trade perspective. We have started negotiations on an ASEAN -India Maritime Transport Cooperation Agreement, and hope that it will be finalised by the end of the year. Likewise, work is in progress on the Kaladan Multimodal transport Project which will provide a road and riverine link between Myanmar ad Mizoram as well as connect Indian ports to Sittwe port in Myanmar. Our experiment with a dedicated fortnightly freighter service with Myanmar has proven to be a commercial success. We plan to commission a study soon if this experiment can be replicated , both for cargo and passenger services, with other Southeast Asian countries." She further added "we are simultaneously endeavouring to see how we can transform the corridors of connectivity into corridors of economic cooperation." Thus, with the change of regime in Myanmar, it would be quite easier on the part of New Delhi to deal with the Yangon's democratic dispensation for closer economic cooperation, and remove the situational hurdle, if any, for the early completion of the project.
This multimodal transport corridor, if implemented in time, would transform the geo-economic scenario of the region as well as end its maritime isolation. This project would create opportunities for the emergence of industrial clusters in the Northeast, provided the political leadership sets the agenda with a robust entrepreneurial culture and announce institutional reforms to mark growth and development in the region. Then, only India's NE region would be ready to kick-start its trade and economic cooperation with the (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) ASEAN, Mekong Ganga cooperation(MGC), Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi -Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation(BIMSTEC), Bangladesh- China- India - Myanmar(BCIM) )and other regional groupings. Besides this, the Kaladan corridor would also raise the importance of the Northeast from the perspective of Act East policy and transform it from landlocked to sea -linked region in near future. (The writer is an Associate Professor at the 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.)
West Kameng, APP win, Kra-Daadi draw with Changlang
ITANAGAR, Dec 18: West Kameng and Arunachal Pradesh Police (APP) won their respective group matches against East Kameng and East Siang in the Tadar Tang State Level Football Tournament while the match played between Kra-Daadi and Changlang ended in a 1-1 draw.
Kra-Daadi took an early lead against Changlang in 17th minute through goal from Rigio Tapu.
Changlang dominated the midfield in the second half creating many scoring opportunities but failed to score. Changlang restored the parity with a self goal by Tarh Rajkumar just 3 minutes remaining before the end of the regulation time.
Changlang had almost scored in the extra-time but an incredible goal line clearance saved the day for Kra-Daadi.
The match ended in 1-1 draw, which kept both team alive in the tournament.
In the second match, the supporters of East Kameng were left disappointed as their neighbour West Kameng defeated their team by 3-2 goal.
Pem Dorjee (21) gave West Kameng early lead by scoring in second minutes with a thunderous volley from the D-line.
East Kameng was awarded a penalty kick in 11th minute which was converted by Kalu Rai.
Sange Tsering Deru (7) scored the second goal for West Kameng in 15th minute and the scores remained 2-1 at halftime.
West Kameng started strongly in second half and increased their lead in 57th minute again scored by Sange Tsering Deru. Karang Tallang scored in 69th minute for East Kameng to reduce the margin of defeat.
Arunachal Pradesh Police (APP) pipped East Siang 2-1 in the third and last match of the day.
Toko Poliam converted a spot kick which was awarded in 12th minute in favour of APP (1-0). East Siang equalized the goal in 51st minute scored by striker Kamin Darin (1-1).
Second half substitute Liki Nirin scored the winning goal for APP in 65th minute (2-1).
Upper Subansiri will play against Namsai at 10 am and Lohit will meet West Siang at 12 noon before Lower Subansiri taking on Siang at 2 pm on Monday.
MES and Kalawanpo reach semis
TAWANG, Dec 18: Military Engineers Services (MES) entered the semifinal of the Winter Cup T20 Cricket Tournament with a facile 3-wickets victory over Paikhar.
Paikhar, who decided to bat first after winning the toss, were able post a challenging total of 170 runs on board owing to a fine partnership between Nanu (34), Sang Norbu (29) and Thuten Chota (37*).
Chasing 171, MES got off to a superb start with opener Rinku Thakuria smashing 31. MES were cruising comfortably at one stage with Koucher (33), Abidur( 24) and Animesh Deka (24) playing cautious knocks. But some splendid fielding and good middle over bowling resulted in falling of MES wickets at regular intervals, and brought Paikhar back into the game. With the requiring run rate mounting, the game was stalled in the middle and could have steered either way.
Dragging the fight into the last over, MES required 15 of the last over. Nasir, batting at number six, slammed Sonam for two consecutive sixes and a four in the final over to take his team over the line. Skipper Rinku Thakuria was adjudged the Man of the Match for his fighting 31 and a wicket.
Later, the last quarter final of the tourney seemed to be a cakewalk for Kalawangpo Cricket Club. KCC took their place in the semi-finals as they walloped Government Higher Secondary School Tawang (GHSST) with 59 runs.
Batting first, Kalawangpo set a respectable target of 166 runs with some slog overs quick fire power hitting by Tashi Dondup who remained unbeaten on 39. Opener Lobsang Yeshi was the top scorer for KCC with an unbeaten 43 while Thutan Tashi was adjudged the Man of the Match for his 41 runs and 4 wickets.
Some lousy fielding and toothless bowling attack cost GHSST the semi-final berth. Slow start by the openers saw the required run rate mounting and the whole team collapsed under pressure at 107 runs in 19.4 overs.
13 teams participated in the annual cricket carnival of the district organized by Mon Tawang Vigilance and sponsored by Parliamentary Secretary for RWD Jambey Tashi and Tawang MLA Tsering Tashi.
GHSS Ganga, Itanagar reach semis
Subroto Cup
ITANAGAR, Dec 18: Govt. Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Ganga and GHSS Itanagar won their respective matches and entered into the semifinals of the 5th district level Subroto Cup Football Tournament of Papum Pare district at Rono Ground, Doimukh on Sunday.
GHSS Ganga and GHSS Itanagar defeated their respective opponents GHSS Arunodaya and GHSS Balijan by identical 3-1 margin to set up semifinal clash against each other.
GHSS Ganga was leading Arunodaya 2-0 at halftime with goals from Lokam Ankha and Nabam Radhe.
GHSS, Ganga was in total command of the match when Techi Hita scored the third goal for his team in 15th minute of second half.
The solitary goal for GHSS, Arunodaya was scored by Arup Majumdar five minute before the final hooter.
GHSS, Itanagar was also leading Balijan 2-0 at halftime with goal from Gejum Doni and Dari Jimi.
GHSS, Itanagar added another goal through Pongsa Sono 15 minute into the second half. GHSS, Balijan tried their best but failed to score. The team had to satisfy with an own goal by the defender of GHSS Itanagar five minutes into the match.
GHSS, Polo Colony will take on GHSS, Doimukh in the first seminal at 9.30 am and the second seminal match between GHSS Ganga and GHSS Itanagar will be played at 12 noon on December 19.
Low-intensity earthquake hits Upper Siang
ITANAGAR, Dec 18: A low intensity earthquake was reported this morning at a place in Upper Siang district close to the Indo-China border.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the slight intensity earthquake occured at 7.46 am and the Richter scale readings showed the magnitude of the tremor was 3.8.
The depth of the occurrence was 106 km. The epicentre of the earthquake was recorded at Lat 28.6 degree North and Long 94.9 degree East which is around 116 km from district headquarters Yingkiong.
No loss of life or damage to property has been reported so far, state Chief Secretary Shakuntala Gamlin told PTI after taking stock of the situation from district officers.
She has directed officers to be on their toes to assess the situation properly and keep her posted continuously. PTI
Rebia assures durable roads for villagers
ITANAGAR, Dec 18: Urban Development, Law and Justice Minister, Nabam Rebia has assured the villagers to build durable road before the rainy season begins. The Minister was addressing in a gathering at Hanio Hapa village under Kakoi circle of Papumpare district on Saturday during his visit to the village along with Deputy Commissioner Papumpare.
Rebia instructed the EE PWD, Doimukh Division to prepare the detail requirement of bridges, culverts etc in the roads. Rebia added that he would discuss with the Chief Minister for the fund and exuded hope that the fund would be managed soon.
Responding to Goya Yallar, ASM Lower Jumi's representation seeking fund for construction of a teacher quarter for Govt Primary School Tani Happa, the minister told the villagers that a sum of Rs.12 Lakhs would be provided in March 2017 and 2 units teacher barrack may be taken up for immediately. Enchanted by natural beauty of the remote village, Rebia urged the villagers to protect flora and fauna of the village at any cost. Bamang Mangha, Chairman S & T, GoAP, Tai Kaye, Deputy Commissioner also addressed the public.
Earlier on the day, Rebia also visited recently notified Urban Kimin Township alongwith Deputy Director Urban Development. He later announced two Overhead Water Tanks having 50,000ltrs capacity each would be constructed for Durpa area and Kimin town respectively to mitigate the water crisis. He also assured to provide a Mini dumper truck for cleaning of garbage in Kimin town. Rebia announced that long drainage system at Durpa area would also be taken up along Kudh River in phase wise manner. An Office alongwith quarter for AUPO Kimin would be sanctioned immediately, he further said and requested the Panchayat leaders of Kimin to find out suitable land for it. DIPRO
"Photo with friends"
[ Karda Natam ]
DAPORIJO, Dec 18: To improve the Civil Military relations, the 17 Raj Rif (Sawai Man) organized a photo exhibition with theme "photo with friends" under its civic action programme at Gelomo.
Colour photos of every villager were taken and exhibited them, which were later handed over to the villagers by Commandant of 17 Raj Rif (Sawai Man). Indian Army has been oraganizing various Civic Action Programme to bridge the gap between army and civilian. Recently they have undertaken activities, like construction of play ground, community hall for the welfare of villagers. Further, establishment of school for children is being planned, according to an army release.
KVK training
ITANAGAR, Dec 18: Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Lohit in Namsai district under ICAR: NRC Yak organized three days training cum demonstration programme on milk production and its processing techniques at Khowji, Mahadevpur-IV and Kumari Khamti village of Lekang circle of Namsai from December 15 to 17.
Under these programme, tribal farmers were imparted scientific knowledge on dairy farming.
The training covered all the management aspects that ensure the good milk production from dairy animal, including housing, scientific feeding, time reproduction and reproductive management and health management. Value addition in milk, a method of paneer making was also demonstrated. The total number of farmers participated in the training was 90.
'Handbook for army of Jesus' released
ITANAGAR, Dec 18: Divine Word Touch Ministries (DWTM) on Sunday released its second book titled 'Handbook for army of Jesus' authored by its director Jumi Dora in presence of a large number of people including parliamentary secretary, UD, housing, town planning and municipalities, Techi Kaso.
Copyright © 2008, The Arunachal Times Publications Pvt. Ltd., Siang House, Sector
-
All rights reserved.
Editorial
Debate continues
As the day passes on, the demonetisation issue continues to divide the nation. Political parties, economists and even ordinary citizens are deeply divided over the issue. The winter session of parliament was almost washed out over demonetisation. As the debate goes on, it’s time for some reality check. As per media report the availability of cash in banks are improving but it might take months and perhaps year to get situation normal. The move has definitely slowed down the economy and its effect will deeply hurt the poor. Prime Minister Narendra Modi while declaring the decision of cancelling 500 and 1000 notes promised to unearth black money and put an end to corruption. But already report of people using the new notes for corruption has been reported from various parts of country.
For the first few weeks of demonetization every Indians felt that their collective
suffering and inconvenience was justified because it would ultimately usher in a
less corrupt, more equal India. But as the initiative enters its second month, more
and more reports are emerging of seizures of vast quantities of hoarded cash in the
new notes. Like water reaching the sea, the corrupt, it seems, have found ways to
navigate around the government’s new obstacles. In just two states of Karnataka and
Goa, Income Tax department recovered 202,200,000 rupees (roughly $3 million) in new
2,000 notes. IT department has registered a total of 36 cases and recovered unaccounted-
________________________________
Readers’ Forum
Appeal to Home Commissioner
Dear Editor,
The notice which has been issued by District Magistrate Koloriang for surrendering
our weapons at concern police station for obtaining Fresh Arm Licenses has clearly
contradicted the Arms Rules-
My main point of complaint in this regard is that when the Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India has extended time for generation of UNI on NDAL up to 31/03/2017, then why it is required to surrender our weapons for Fresh Arm Licenses. The question of surrendering of weapons at concern police station does not arise till 31/03/2017 which would impose another financial burden to the Arm licenses holders.
Therefore, I being the law abiding citizen and also in the interest of common people of my district Kurung Kumey, in particular and for the people of Arunachal Pradesh in general, would like to appeal to the Commissioner, Home, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, kindly to have a look into this matter to review the notice issued by DM Koloriang and also issue necessary order to strictly comply with the instructions issued from time to time by both state and central Govts so that the common people may not face problems for minor works.
Yours'
Bengia Nima
Old Market Line, Koloriang
Indian journalism
Dear Editor
In spite of raising standard at the highest levels in the domestic front, Indian journalism has not yet been able to reach a highly reputable international standard. The main reason behind this is the lack of visibility of the Indian journalists, media houses and news agencies at any major international news platform. Rarely do we hear or see any Indian journalists working at high global flash point areas like North Africa, Middle East, SE Asia, Far East or even in any parts of South America. Some bigger news agencies have some presence in continental Europe and North America to say the most.
It is a matter of great despair that as a nation India has failed to generate any world class journalist till date other than some TV evangelists who are more drama personnel that classic news coverage and some column writers who warm their chairs with wise opinions never traveling outside safe borders of India. Most international news covered and showed in India is always second hand or even a third hand information source.
For decades our news agencies have only quoted and copied foreign news agencies without been able to develop their own credible brand name outside India. The possible factors behind such apathy are mostly poor pay and insurance coverage provided by news agencies that are turning millions of rupees as revenues from advertisements; but do not want to pay at the international level. Furthermore, poor training and field experiences, lack of technology, available funding, source connections and lack of interest in investing in foreign news sector are some other factors. Without initiatives and investments and lack of vision Indian news agencies and media houses are lagging light years behind their foreign counterparts at the global level.
Yours'
Saikat Kumar Basu
Canada