December 24
2016
Fire devastates Wakka, one dead, 57 houses destroyed
LONGDING, Dec 23: 52 dwelling houses were reduced to ashes rendering more than 100 families homeless in Wakka village in Longding district.
The fire which broke out around 11 am on Thursday lasted till 4 pm. A 70-year-old woman, identified as Bangman Gangsa, was charred to death while properties lost and damaged are yet to be assessed, Wakka ZPM Matpho Kolong told "The Arunachal Times" over telephone this afternoon.
Some children have also been reportedly found missing with no confirmation of their whereabouts.
One Catholic Church, store-houses/granaries, fair price shop, 3 Angawanwadi centres, traditional boys' dormitory, vehicles were also destroyed while many domestic animals, including Mithuns were killed in the fire.
The mishap also left more than 30 houses, including the residential house of the General Secretary of Longding District Students' Union, partially damaged.
"Nothing could be saved as most of the male members of the village were busy in clearing roadside jungle when the fire broke out", he informed.
It is alleged that 16 Assam Rifles had forced all male members of the village to cut roadside jungles in the wake of recent militant related activities especially due to the recent ambush in which two of their jawans were killed at Nyinu village under Wakka.
"We could have managed to save many dwelling houses and the life, if we were not engaged in the work," said Gangsa, a victim of the incident.
The cause of the fire is not yet known but it is suspected that the fire might have started from a kitchen.
Parliamentary Secretary Thangwang Wangham on Friday visited the village and took stock of the situation.
Wangham distributed one quintal of rice to each of the affected family and some blankets as well as immediate relief.
The Longding Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Gupta, who accompanied Wangham has assured to put up a mobile administrative camp for preparation and issue of important certificates that have been lost in the mishap.
Local MLA and Education Minister Honchun Ngandam has also rushed relief materials and is monitoring all relief works while Kanubari MLA Gabriel D. Wangsu has dispatched truck-loads of relief materials comprising rice, clothes and utensils.
The District Administration is monitoring the situation closely and putting all effort to provide basic needs like rice, clothes and drinking water, informed the DC.
The Loss Assessment Committee has also started working to assess the actual losses and a committee to collect all the relief materials distributed from different agencies has also been formed on the initiative of Wangham.
He urged the government agencies, student unions, civil societies, NGOs and individuals to contribute in all possible ways to bring the situation back to normalcy.
Later, the affected people, who are left homeless and hapless at this chilling winter, asked the Parliamentary Secretary to draw the attention of government for immediate relief to rebuild their houses.
A team of police from Longding reached the fire ravaged village for spot verification.
ZPM Matpho Kolong appealed to all the neighbouring villages to extend their helping hands to the affected people in the reconstruction of their dwelling houses.
Longding District Students' Union General Secretary, Gangsong Gangsa has appealed to the public, businessmen, NGOs etc to help the villages at the time of need.
Soon after the accident, the district administration rushed Circle Officer NL Naam along with relief materials to Wakka. The Wancho Council and various NGOs and youth bodies of Longding district and beyond are mobilizing resources as relief for the victims.
The village under Wakka circle, the last administrative headquarters bordering Myanmar, has a total 314 households with 2026 inhabitants. Of late it has been in news for militant related activities from across the border including IED blasts and attacks on the security forces.
Recently two houses, one each in Ranlamri and Chopsa villages of Kanubari sub division of Longding district were gutted down in a fire mishap.
Four houses were too completely damaged in similar manner in Kanubari township last month.
In April 2014, 32 dwelling houses and six ware houses were gutted in Wakka village.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pema Khandu has expressed shock and deep sorrow over the unfortunate incident of inferno at Wakka.
Taking stock of the situation, the CM had called up DC Longding and directed him to immediately rush a relief team with all essential materials to Wakka.
The CM also spoke to Minister Education Hunchun Ngandam and asked him to monitor entire relief operation.
Reportedly, relief items like rice, clothes, utensils and blankets have already been dispatched and made available to the victims.
He appealed to the citizens to be cautious during dry and festive seasons to avert such incidents.
Absentee teachers, empty schools
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: Parliamentary Secretary for Education, Bamang Felix and his team consisting of Under Secretary, Education, Likha Tejji and others were left shock when they visited various schools at Pistana Circle, Lower Subansiri.
According to a report from the department, Kugitago Residential School is defunct with no teacher, staff or students.
Tot primary school and Kugi primary school were in the same condition. Cattles are taking shelter, said a report.
The team also visited Miya middle school which has 30 students. All the students were found absent in the bush covered school. The school is managed by a lone teacher- Likha Peko who was present during the visit.
Interestingly, in one Anchal Segment, there were five Government schools which the department says is totally unwanted.
Instead of dispersing the students to the four corners of the Anchal segment which is in close vicinity, one central school in the segment could have sufficed, Felix said.
For the sake of obtaining petty contract work, numbers of schools were proposed in nook and corner of a single panchayat, the department said.
Instead of proposing infrastructure in fragments, a compact policy should have been followed for development of infrastructure in one area so that a vibrant academic life is enabled, he said. Due to vested interests of people, education policy was in doldrums, Felix said.
He has asked the DDSE, Lower Subansiri to immediately initiate necessary action against the BEO, CRCC, and BRCC for supplying fake information.
The DDSE has been asked to submit necessary report within a week so that proper rationalisation could be done.
He later visited the oldest school of Pistana Circle-Govt. Middle School, Sito which was found empty and abandoned.
When enquired, he was told that it was lying defunct since the last two years.
Earlier, Under Secy Education, Likha Tejji visited the Residential school at Lower Gida and Pating under Nyobia circle in Kurung Kumey. He assured to render necessary grants against both the school as both had large numbers of students residing in the hostels with poor infrastructure.
He also visited Higher Secondary School, Koloriang and inspected all the ongoing projects. He reproved the lack of proper sanitation and water facility in the campus.
Boy drowns in Tirap River
CHANGLANG, Dec 23: The 12 Bn NDRF team recovered the dead body of late 16 year old Munghong Ngemu of Bubang village, Changlang from Tirap River after rigorous search operation of about 9 Hrs on Thursday.
Late Munglong, a student of Cl-XI in Govt Hr Secondary School, Changlang had gone for a picnic with his friends in the riverside on the fateful day where he drowned while swimming.
The District Administration had requisitioned the service of 12 Bn NDRF after the local divers failed to recover the dead body despite several attempts for three days.
The 12 BN NDRF team comprised of 13 members including four highly trained divers led by Inspector Abhai Kumar Singh launched search operation in the drowning site and recovered the dead body at 3:50 PM.
Meanwhile, the district administration expressed it gratitude to Director, Department of Disaster Management for her prompt response to its request and appreciated the quick action by 12 BN NDRF. It may be mentioned here that the NDRF team had reached within a day of the request.
Pema assures centre on Financial inclusion, DBT
NEW DELHI, Dec 23: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has assured Government of India that State Government is fully committed to implement financial inclusion and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
He said this during his meeting with the Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in the national capital on Thursday. Khandu while citing that limited banking service in the state is a big challenge sought GoI's support by means of a special program of banking the unbanked in the state.
The CM further assured full support of the State Government in the implementation of GST, which he said is a path breaking initiative taken by Govt. of India. He reiterated that the support shown by the Union Govt in building connectivity in the state would go a long way in successful rollout of GST.
While appraising Jaitley on State Finances, Khandu said "our Government has inherited a very difficult financial scenario due to host of reasons. A ballooning past liability has been drastically reduced by my government by taking many hard measures. You will appreciate that this has however impacted development in important socio and economic sectors". He was referring to macro issues pertaining to State Finances, health, education and Infrastructure.
CM revealed that Arunachal Pradesh has suffered the most on account of delinking of certain CSS with an overall liability of Rs 936.66 Crore. Some very important infrastructural projects like multipurpose Sports stadiums, District Secretariats, Cement Concrete Roads, and Convention Centre remain incomplete as a consequence. Even in the Urban Development Ministry,
the liabilities of Delinked Schemes have put a very heavy financial burden on the state.
While lauding the Union Govt for planning a whopping Rs 4,387.44 Crore project for upgrading the infrastructural facilities in all the villages situated in the border areas between 0-50 Km from the international border which is in advanced stage of consultation with all the nodal ministries of Govt. of India, Khandu requested Union Minister to pay special attention towards Arunachal considering its historical & strategic importance.
He also submitted the issue of Hill Transport Subsidy that has been plaguing the State for a long time. The FCI and GOI have not been reimbursing the subsidy since last many years for something as essential as the PDS supply.
Jaitley assured all out support to the state, considering its location and difficult terrain. He mentioned that the state has been denied its due development historically and therefore the union govt will address all the genuine demands of the state. He instructed union secretary expenditure to extend all out support to the state and instructed the chief secretary to follow up all pending issues and proposals of the state. CM was accompanied by Deputy CM Chowna Mein during meeting.
HDFC bank manager commits suicide; leaves suicide note
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: A 35-year old HDFC bank manager reportedly committed suicide by hanging himself at his rented accommodation in Nirjuli on Wednesday morning. The deceased Rituparna Gohain was the branch manager of HDFC Naharlagun. The case has been registered under Nirjuli police and the investigation is on.
SDPO Naharlagun M Bui informed that the deceased left behind a suicide note mentioning about financial matter.
"He has mentioned everything clearly in his suicide note and we are looking into it," Bui said adding that the suicide note has been sent for forensic test.
He further informed that officials from HDFC Guwahati have also arrived to examine the matter.
NRLM schemes will be implemented soon: DC
SEPPA, Dec 23: East Kameng Deputy Commissioner Rajeev Takuk informed that schemes under NRLM being executed by ARSRLM at the State level will be implemented almost in all the districts very soon.
Chairing the District Consultative Committee (DCC) and District Level Review Committee (DLRC) meeting here on December 21, Takuk enquired about the KCC, PMEGP, WCC, MUDRA, social security schemes and other government based initiatives undertaken by the banking sector.
On NPA issue, he acknowledged that there is a mismatch between prescribed goal and actual target achievement and suggested for adoption of pragmatic approach while framing of policy and target allocation based on the ground reality.
Stressing the need for conduct of more financial literacy camps, he opined that it is mandatory and assured to extend all possible assistance for organistaion of such activities.
He exhorted all concern departments to bring government schemes to the doorsteps of people and forward as many proposals as permissible under relevant govt. guidelines to bank branches for appropriate realization.
Admitting that many people are not well-informed about existing govt. welfare schemes, he further requested the HoDs to simplify and devise innovative measures so that guidelines of every scheme should percolate widely and explicitly to all concern. He directed the Bank Branch Managers (BMs) to send reminder regarding pending cases under Bikajai so that matter could be acted upon expeditiously.
Various issues, such as credit flow, advance and deposit, CDR, financial literacy, financial inclusion, micro insurance schemes for social security, progress and achievement under banking sector for the quarter ended up to 30.09.2016 were discussed in the meeting.
Credit flow to priority sector, achievements as per ACP and DCP, organizational position of banks, and schematic progress on various govt. sponsored schemes, viz, PMEGP, KCC, WCC, PMMY (MUDRA Scheme), PM Start Up and others were also reviewed.
Other issues such as security measures, installation of additional ATM booths, demonetization and ways and means for promoting and adopting cashless transaction, NPA and its recovery, particularly related to govt. sponsored schemes, and Bikajai cases were pondered upon in detail.
While briefing on the achievement and progress, CM cum LBM RK Mohilary expressed satisfaction with the overall performance in terms of CDR of the district up to the quarter ending September 2016, which depicts 56.78 percent. He informed that both deposit and advances are showing positive trend and have increased compare to quarter ending March 2016.
Against the target allocated, he informed that the aggregated achievement is 56.1 percent up to this quarter and evinced hope that the remaining target would be achieved by the end of the financial year.
Regarding NPA, he further apprised that the recovery of NPA under govt. sponsored scheme as reported by the bank branches is about 76.35 percent against the demand generated.
He requested the govt. departments to play pro-active roles and forward proposals, if any granted under relevant govt. schemes, to respective bank branches for necessary action.
SBI Seppa BM Monjoy Bohora highlighted about the status of NPA and measures devised and adopted for loan recovery. Enquiring about the manpower position and banking coverage, AGM RBI Guwahati Shishir Gupta assured to take up the matter to the competent authority for necessary endorsement.
Speaking on demonetization and digi-monetisation, he suggested for conduct of more financial literacy camps and simultaneously, opening of more bank accounts, and thus ensuring cent percent financial inclusion. Further, he requested the bankers and govt. officials to disseminate as much as possible to masses about the information on security features of the new currency notes along with the knowledge regarding advantages of being connected to banks and cashless transaction. He enquired about the status of Stand up and Mudra schemes.
DVO Dr. M. Modi, DDA L Zimba, DFDO H Tajo, ADI N Doka, Apex Bank BM P C Ngangam, CBI AM Edwin Traite, CI J Netan, and representatives of T&H and DRDA were present and took part in the discussion. DIPRO
DC for dissemination of information on demonetization
AALO, Dec 23: West Siang DC, Gamli Padu has asked all banking institutions and PRIs members to disseminate information on early deposit of Rs.1000 and Rs. 500 in old currency latest by Dec 30 and opening of accounts under PMJDY and saving accounts enabling all government transactions to go directly into the accounts of beneficiaries without giving any scope for cash handling.
He was addressing a review meeting at the DC's conference hall here on Friday, which was attended by representatives from various departments, banking institutions, PRIs and market committees of Aalo.
He informed that opening of PMJDY accounts should be done even with zero balance as per the directive of the government so that the poor do not face problem while opening accounts. He also assured to depute two staffs each from district administration and treasury office, if need arises to help the banking institutions carry out the demonetization works and disclosed that SBI has opened up two banking units at Kaying and another near PD DRDA office to facilitate deposits and opening of accounts.
The shopkeepers who are dealing with large transactions were also urged to install swipe machine to facilitate sale and purchase of essential goods. On issue of Aadhar Card, the DC said that the district could get the Agency Code after repeated persuasions with the government at all levels.
FAO, Gomo Sora revealed that old notes amounting to Rs. 76 crores have been deposited through different branches of banks operating in West Siang district.
Chief Manager SBI, B S Das, Branch manager Vijay Bank, P Roy, ZPM Tumpe Ete and other members also highlighted various works on demonetization, modes of payments and functioning of ATMs in the town. (DIPRO)
East Siang admin impose temporary ban on IMFL
PASIGHAT, Dec 23: East Siang administration has temporarily banned sale of IMFL in the district from December 28 to January 3 as a precautionary measures to prevent road accidents and incidents linked to alcohol during the festive seasons.
The decision was taken by the district administration in a coordination meeting with WASE, ABK (WW), administrative and police officers and IMFL dealers.
The women activists of WASE led by President Jaya Tasung Moyong and ABK (WW) president YT Burang had separately urged the Deputy Commissioner Isha Khosla for temporary closure of wine shops during the ensuing festive season.
Appreciating the concern raised by women activists, the DC informed that due to their tireless and selfless efforts and administration's constant monitoring and stern action accidental case related to drunk driving was reduced to zero last year, which itself is a good achievement.
She instructed the magistrates and police to intensify their vigil to ensure that wine shops are closed and no shops and gumtis sold IMFL during the period of ban.
Earlier, ABK (WW) President YT Burang while assuring full cooperation to administration in containing crimes and controlling of illegal selling of IMFL, urged the DC to keep constant eyes on Autorickshaws, which are usually used to carry such items during such period.
The wine dealers present in the meeting agreed to temporarily close their wine shops as per direction of the DC. DIPRO
Central minster promises series of activities for AP
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: The Minister for Science and Technology, Dr.Harsh Vardhan has made a series of announcements for the state during his visit on Dec 21-22.
While laying the foundation stone of Centre for Bio Resources and Sustainable Development funded by centre under Kimin Sub-Division, Papum Pare, the minister disclosed that 50 Biotech Laboratories in Senior Secondary Schools will be established under Department of Biotechnology scheme- Biotech Labs in Senior Secondary Schools (BliSS ) to promote practical exposure. Five centres of excellence for Biotechnology will also be established in the state of state.
He said that centre will promote the study on the restoration of traditional nature of dyeing as well as setting up of banana fibre extraction and processing and training unit for entrepreneurs.
He assured that team of experts will study the feasibility and promotion of Science and how the youths of Arunachal Pradesh can benefits from the Start Up and Stand up Programmes.
Highlighting on the various activities of the centre being taken up for Arunachal Pradesh, Dr. Harsh Vardhan spoke on the need to conservation and monitoring of bio resources.
He further said that that the latest scientific acumen should be put in place to help in generation of jobs for the people of the state. He said that centre will set up State level Biotech Hub to conduct high end researches and training. He further said that IP Cell will be set up in state for protection of indigenous traditional knowledge.
He urged the state Govt for expeditious implementation of the projects.
Minister Urban Development, Law and Justice Nabam Rebia, Advisor Department of Biotechnology, North East Region Dr. T. Madan Mohan, Minister of Education Hunchun Ngandam, Chairman Science and Technology GoAP Bamang Mangha, Secretary Science and Technology G.Ete, Director Science and Technology T. Ronya, DC Papum Pare Tai Kaye were present among others.
Earlier, the Union Minister of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Dr. Harsh Vardhan visited the State Science Centre, I.G. Park, Itanagar to get first hand information regarding the activities of the State Science Center.
He addressed the students who were present during his visit.
Meanwhile, Dr. Harsh Vardhan visited the State BJP office.
Jarpum Gamlin, State BJP General Secretary, introduced the Union Minister to the party members and B R Waghe fellow State BJP General Secretary, BJP, welcomed the Minister.
While interacting with BJP legislators, state office bearers, senior leaders and party workers, the Union Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has special fondness for the north eastern region and he is very keen in the developmental activities of the region, according to a communication from Media Secretary, Bharatiya Janata Party, Nalong Mize.
The visiting minister said that the Prime Minister has given special instruction to all the Union Ministers to visit North Eastern region in order to acquaint themselves with the unique socio-cultural and geographical attributes of the people and the place. The Prime Minister believe that exposure to the region will give the Central Ministers more in-depth understanding and appreciation of the developmental challenges of the region, said a BJP release.
BJP leaders Tage Taki, Dominic Tadar, Nani Lajie, Ramesh Kadaganchi, Nalong Mize, Kenyir Ringu, Tani Loffa, Ngurang Pinch and C C Singpho and BJP state office bearers, members of Mahila Morcha, Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha, Minority Morcha, Schedule Tribe Morcha were present during the meeting.
Candlelight rally for Haa Tama
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: The All Nyishi Students' Union Chandigarh (ANSUC) led by its president Dora Dui and All Arunachal Students Union Chandigarh (AASUC) general secretary Niri Sanjay organized a peaceful candlelight rally demanding justice for Late Haa Tama at Chandigarh on Friday. Late Tama, 22, a B Tech student of Dr. K N Modi University in Tonk District, Rajasthan was allegedly killed by some unknown miscreants at Jaipur recently.
While criticizing the Govt for showing less interest in bringing the culprits to the book, the ANSUC demanded CBI or SIT enquiry into the alleged murder case. The Union also urged the concern state Govt to ensure safety and security of the students of North East including Arunachal Pradesh who are pursuing higher studies outside their home states.
Around 200 students of North East studying at Chandigarh and Punjab took part in the rally and demanded justice for Late Tama. While expressing solidarity with bereaved family, the students prayed for eternal peace of Late Tama.
Haa Tama death case: Rijiju instructs Govt., police to investigate
NEW DELHI, Dec 23: Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said that he has already asked the State Govt. and the senior level Police officer to investigate the Haa Tama death case and early submission of reports on a time bound manner.
Rijiju said when Parliamentary Secretary (Food & CS) Markio Tado on Friday met him and Chief Minister Pema Khandu in New Delhi and urged both for constitution of an independent or CBI enquiry into the Tama's death case.
Tado also appealed to the MoS (Home) to direct Govt. of Rajasthan to disclose the post-mortem and FSL report.
Chief Mnister Pema also assured to take up the matter immediately with union and Rajasthan governments.
He directed District Administration to initiate for payment of ex-gratia to the family of the deceased at the earliest.
Road connectivity by 2019, assures Tuki
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: Former Chief Minister and Sagalee MLA Nabam Tuki assured the people of his constituency of road connectivity and water supply in every village by 2019.
The former chief minister, who undertook a four days constituency visit from December 19 attended the agriculture festival at Langchung Village on December 20 and visited Pinte village on the same day and inaugurated the Upper Primary School Pinte.
A development meeting was held the next day at general ground, Mengio attended by Padi Tapa, i/c Extra Assistant Commissioner Mengio, Zilla Parishad Member Tarh Passang, Anchal Chairperson Nabam Sera and Presidents of GB Association from Mengio and Silsango circles.
Various Head of Departments and Govt. officers were also present in the meeting.
The demands for development were placed by the Panchayat leaders before their local MLA.
Tuki also visited Primary School Kullung and general ground, which was sanctioned under SPA. On the same day, he also visited the 50-bed hospital and multipurpose auditorium in Sakiang town.
The Local MLA distributed blankets to all the public, especially the needy people. He also promised to continue his visit to the area.
Rally in support of Jeli Kayi conducted
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: Under the banner of Jeli Kayi support group on Friday evening, a sizeable number of fans including members from All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) conducted a support rally for Jeli Kayi, who has made it to the Indian Idol, Season 9th as one of the top 12 contestants.
Jeli will be competing with 11 other singing sensations from across the country at a gala event of Sony Television singing competition slated to start from January 5. He is the lone competitor representing the Northeast region in Indian Idol season 9th.
The rally started from Akashdeep at Ganga and culminated at Tennis Court near IG Park Itanagar.
Jeli(25) born to father Taje Kayi and mother Yapi Kayi at Liromoba under West Siang district had already participated at the Indian Idol season 5th in 2009. However, he was eliminated from among the top 40 contestants. At a tender age, he had won the first Aalo Idol, a district level singing competition and was also the first runners up at Voice of Arunachal.
Seeking support from all sections of society, organising Chairman Asham Gyadi informed the objectives of taking out rally in support of Jeli Kayi.
"We want our people to watch Jeli's performance from tomorrow evening onwards and support him to become Indian Idol Season 9th" said Gyadi.
Representing the AAPSU Marli Kamki appealed to other northeast states to extend solidarity with Jeli like the region did for Sourabhee Debbarma.
Centre announces fund on interest
NAHARLAGUN, Dec 23: Union Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Science, Dr. Harsh Vardhan on Friday announced that an amount Rs. 150 to 200 crores will be made available on interest to the state by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), PST, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Emeritus Scientist (ES) for a period of five years.
Speaking to the media in a press conference held at the lounge of Naharlagun Helipad, Dr. Harsh Vardhan informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is keen to develop the state in all spheres and appealed to all to cooperate with the government in carrying out all developmental activities in the state.
Stating that the climatic condition of the region is congenial to grow medicinal plants species, Dr. Vardhan informed that schemes could be taken up under DBT, ICMR Institution CSIR and institute of Nutrition like CFTRI, CDRI besides, NERIST soon.
Elaborating on his visit to Kimin, where he had earlier laid the foundation stones of Center for Bioresearches and Rural Technology Centre, the two projects which will be implemented under DBT and DST, the Minister urged the IP Cell to dedicate and preserve the traditional knowledge of the indigenous people and research institution in the state. He also advised to promote banana fibre extraction and processing cum-training unit for the local entrepreneurs, fruit processing units, mushroom production, medicinal and aromatic plant cultivation orchid cultivation and vermiculture entrepreneurs for a rapid socio-economic development. (DIPR)
Delhi Police philanthropic initiative for NE people
NEW DELHI, Dec 23: The Delhi Police Special Unit for North East people on Friday announced various philanthropic services available for North East people in Delhi.
Delhi's top 51 hospitals have agreed to give medical concession to North East citizens (For assistance call- 011-24104568) while, three diagnostic centres at Delhi have also agreed to give concession to North East people at 40% rates. (For assistance call- 011-24104568). Besides, these other services include; North East Blood Bank at AIIMS for emergency blood requirement of North East people (For blood requirement call 011-24104568); Burial/cremation fund for the North East people (For assistance call 011-24104568); IAS scholarship for poor and meritorious North East students in collaboration with the pan North East NGO 'Helping Hands' under the CSR initiative of the top notch IAS training institute Vajiram & Ravi (Address: Old Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi-110060) & ALS Institute
(Address: A-Block, Plot -II, Aggarwal Auto Mall, Shalimar District Centre, Outer Ring Road, Delhi-110088). For details they can email the details to - helpinahands2016th@gmail. com and Face book page - Helping Hands Society and North East Police Unit for North East employees working in the unorganized sector to prevent any exploitation.
Funds to ULBs and DUDAs for construction of IHHLs
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: Chief Engineer-cum-Director-cum-Mission Director, SBM [U] Taba Tedir proposed to distribute the fund amounting to Rs.121.04 lakh to ULBs and DUDAs for construction of 6052 Individual Household Latrine (IHHL) based on the performance and progress shown by ULBs & DUDAs, which was agreed unanimously by the committee.
He was addressing a meeting of High Power Committee on implementation of Swachh Bharat Mission [Urban] which was held in the Conference Hall of Urban Development and Housing Department in Itanagar on Thursday.
Besides, the Committee has also agreed to the proposal for setting up of Project Management Unit (PMU) at State Level.
Secretary, Urban Development, cum Chairman of the Committee TH Tayung, urged all the members to emphasize on creating mass awareness, segregation of garbage at the source, emulate the success stories of other successful state/towns and to left no stone unturned for making the SBM [U], one of the most successful flagship programmes in the state.
Deputy Director [UP]-cum-Nodal Officer, SBM [U] Nixon Lego urged participants to guide the SBM Directorate so that the behavioral changes so far brought in by the programme among the citizens towards cleanliness and garbage management do not fade away.
Meanwhile, Commissioner and Chief Secretary in-charge Hage Kojeen administered Swachhta pledge to all the Govt. employees under Secretariat Administration as a part of Swachhta Abhiyan.
Itanagar-Dimapur bus services flagged off
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Services (APSTS) on Friday flagged off Itanagar and Dimapur bus service from APST bus station Itanagar. The inter-state maiden bus service to Dimapur(Nagaland) was flagged off with ten passengers on board by APSTS Commissioner Hage Kojeen in presence of Director Transport Nyali Ete, Station Superintendents (both Itanagar and Naharlagun) Tuter Dulom and Gyamar Tadap .
With this, the state transports service has connected three northeast states including Assam and Meghalaya with bus service. Flagging off the bus service, Commissioner suggested the staff specially conductors to ensure proper discipline. Congratulating the department, the Commissioner exuded the hope that services between Itanagar and Dimapur would fulfill long-felt demand of the passengers and would also boost the revenue generation.
Briefing the background of inter-state bus services, SS Itanagar Tuter Dulom informed that the official procedures for introducing the services was started way back in 2002, however due to delay in finalizing the official procedures between Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh governments, it has been halted for many years.
APSTS introduced its first bus services in December 15, 1975 between Khonsa to Naharkatia (Assam) under Tirap Frontier. It was flagged off by then Governor KAA Raja. Naharlagun Bus Station started functioning in 1976, followed by Itanagar in 1980.
Scientific Advisory Committee meet
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: Krishi Vigyan Kendra organized the 7th Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting on Tuesday at ICAR-NRC on Yak at Dirang.
Director, ICAR-NRC, Dirang Dr SM Deb suggested for taking up modern know-how technologies to boost agricultural products both quantitatively and qualitatively. He also stressed on organic farming and instructed all agricultural and allied departments to collaborate with each other for efficient assessment, adoption and dissemination of new technologies.
I/C Deputy Commissioner, West Kameng Dagbom Riba, called for adopting multiple cropping systems and also instructed KVK to interact with farmers in every possible manner to update them about the scientific cultivation practices.
During the inaugural session, Dr ND Singh, Senior Scientist briefed about SAC meeting as well as new scientific technologies to assess and disseminate to the farmers.
Department of Horticulture's N Phaichulpa, stressed on importance and role of education in adoption of new technologies by the farming community at the grass root level. He also emphasized on awareness of organic plant protection measures for eco-friendly and sustainable environment.
Tukum wins U-15 single title
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: State's promising young shuttler Laa Tukum won the U-15 boys single title in 30th Sub-junior National Badminton Championship-2016 at Vijayawada Andhra Pradesh recently defeating his opponent Priyanshu Rajawat of Madhya Pradesh 18-21, 21-11 and 21-16 in the final.
Tukum, who got bye in the first round, defeated Shourya Joshi of Goa, 21-7, 21-9, Srayas PV of Tamil Nadu, 21-16, 21-09, Rithin B of Telengana, 14-21, 21-11, 21-17 in the pre-quarter, Kowshik S of Telangana 21-15, 21-13 in the quarter final, Jaiditya Pratap Singh of Chattishghar 21-19, 21-17 in the semi final and Priyanshu Rajawat of Madhya Pradesh by 18-21, 21-11 and 21-16 in 50 minutes in the final round respectively.
Tukum played a matured game in all the matches informed K.B Gurung, Coach.
Arunachal State Badminton Association (ASBA) President and Secretary Ratu Techi and Bamang Tago congratulated Tukum for bringing laurels to the state.
District level Subroto Cup begins in Tawang
TAWANG, Dec 23: District Level Subroto Cup Football Tournament of Tawang district began at High Altitude Sports Complex, Tawang on Friday.
The opening match was played between Govt. Secondary School, Seru and Govt. Higher Secondary School, Tawang, in which the latter defeated the former by 3-0 goal.
Govt. Town Secondary School won the second match against Govt. Secondary School, Lhou by 5 goals.
Eight schools are participating in the tournament.
Earlier, during the inaugural function, MLA Tawang Tsering Tashi exhorted the players to play with spirit of sportsmanship and maintain discipline throughout the tournament.
Tawang Deputy Commissioner Sang Phuntsok also dwelt on the importance of sports to stay physically fit, healthy and mentally sound.
The tournament is organised by Education Department in collaboration with District Administration supported by Department of Health and Family Welfare and District Sports Office, Tawang. DIPRO
West Kameng, Namsai and East Siang register wins
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: West Kameng, Namsai and East Siang won their respective group matches on the seventh day of the 15th Tadar Tang State Level Football Tournament 2016 at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, Naharlagun on Friday.
West Kameng defeated Lower Dibang Valley 3-1, Namsai thrashed Anjaw 6-0 and East Siang piped Papum Pare 1-0.
The lone goal for Lower Dibang Valley was scored by Bani. Sange Tsering Deru and Tenzing Dorjee scored for West Kameng.
In the second match, Namsai thrashed Anjaw 6-0.
Page Tashi scored four goals in 2nd, 3rd, 54th, 64th minutes and Sunju Dolley and Ch. Simit scored one goal each in 14th and 65th minute to complete the thrashing of the team. However, both teams were eliminated from the tournament.
In last match, East Siang defeated Papum Pare by solitary goal in the added time by striker Dari Kamin.
However, both teams are already eliminated from tournament.
East Siang can go home satisfied with good performance in the tournament and were unlucky to have lost their opening match against APP.
Dibang Valley will take on Lohit at 12 noon and Five time champion Lower Subansiri will face underdog Tawang district (2pm) in the last league matches on Saturday.
Tawang need a win to progress while LS just need a draw.
In Thursday's matches, Tawang defeated Siang 1-0, Capital Complex hammered Upper Siang 7-1 and Kra-Daadi thrashed Longding 6-1.
Winter clothes distributed to children
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: The Youth department of the Christian Revival Church (CRC), Chimpu, Itanagar distributed warm clothes to the children of Gyan Mission Orphanage School, (GMOS) at Jullang on December 19 last to mark the pre-Christmas celebration.
Itanagar Municipal Council EE, Tadar Tarang, Chimpu CRC pastor Taba Chokar and GMOS managing chairman Jalley Sonam appreciated the youth department of the CRC for its noble gesture.
Technology Week
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: The Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Changlang observed 'Jai Kisan Jai Vigyan'/Technology Week at its office campus, Jairampur on Friday which was attended by Jairampur, Zila Parishad Member Tusam Longri, ADO Nampong and farmers from different blocks of the district.
Besides exhibition of modern farm tools, film show, kisan ghosthi, farm visit, distribution of leaflets etc, demonstration on oyster mushroom cultivation and vermicomposting were also conducted by KVK subject matter specialists on the occasion.
Later, mushroom spawns were also distributed to the farmers.
Swachhta Pledge
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: As part of the initiative for 'Clean Itanagar Campaign', the officers and staffs of the office of Deputy Commissioner Capital Complex took the Swachhta Pledge on Thursday at the office premises. The Swacchta Pledge carried a strong message with the hope to make Itanagar as one of the cleanest city of India.
All the officers and staffs pledged to 'Together let us make Itanagar the Cleanest City of India'.
Tame Yajum, Extra Assistant Commissioner stated that pledge will not only inspire staff of DC office but would also help in sensitizing others about the importance of cleanliness.
All the Heads of Departments, Heads of Offices, line departments, schools of the Capital Complex took the Swachhta pledge in their respective offices.(DIPRO)
District irrigation plan meet
KHONSA, Dec 23: District Irrigation Plan (DIP) meeting under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojna ( PMKSY ) was held at DC's Chamber under the Chairmanship of Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha on Thursday which was attended by Consultants from NABCONS, the NABARD Consultancy Services, ZPC Tirap, progressive farmers and government officials.
Speaking on the occasion Deputy Commissioner suggested consultants to visit different blocks of the district to assess the viability of the proposed schemes in the different areas of the district adding that District Irrigation Plan is for providing assured irrigation to the farmers of the districts.
All the irrigation related departmental heads suggested for block wise visits. They said that efforts must be put to prepare a viable plan for Tirap District. (DIPRO)
Shifting of electric poles sought
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: The All Kra Daadi District Students' Union (AKDDSU) has in a representation addressed to the Palin Division, Department of Power, Executive Engineer, appealed to him to initiate early steps to shift 30 electric poles from the Government Secondary School, Yangte campus to some other place.
Claiming that installation of electric poles have not been done properly with poorly fitted wires, some of which are hanging all around the school's premises posing a threat to life and property, the Union appealed to the Executive Engineer to remove all the electric poles within the premises to some other place at the earliest.
Awareness prog on cashless transaction
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: As part of its on going awareness campaign on cashless transaction, the State Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) organised a programme at Yingkiong, Upper Siang, wherein the traders, businessmen and general public were educated on various methods of cashless transaction and its benefits.
BJYM Vice President and in-charge of Siang zone Tomi Haide, who led the BJYM team during the programme, explained in details on every technical points of "Less cash to Cash less or digital Paisa"
Upper Siang District BJP president Gemin Jiji, State secretary cum Upper Siang In charge of the party Ojing Tasing, branch manager of SBI Yingkiong S Kalita attended the programme.
More than 1000 people, including businessmen and general public attended the programme besides the members of the district BJYM.
DC urges youths to acquire employability skills
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Tai Kaye urged the unemployed youths to acquire employability skills and capabilities to earn livelihood. The DC said this after distributing certificates to the successful trainees of the 45 days Home Nursing Training held in the APRB-RSETI, Bage Tinali, Nirjuli on December 21 in presence of Chairman, APRB Akshay Kumar,
The DC, who also is the Chairman of APRB-RSETI District level Review and Advisory Council, suggested the youths to avail the benefits of "Start Up India Stand Up India" loan schemes. He appreciated the role played by APRB-RSETI in developing employability skills to unemployed youths free of cost.
Director, APRB=RSETI PB Chettry disclosed that it was the longest duration training conducted by APRB-RSETI so far.
20 women trainees from Upper Subansiri, West Siang, Papum Pare, Kurung Kumey and Lower Subansiri attended it, he said.
APVYWA seeks arrest of DL&RSO Seppa
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: The All Passa Valley Youth Welfare Association (APVYWA) has sought arrest and suspension of DL&RSO Seppa for alleged embezzlement of fund in relation to Trans Arunachal highway compensation.
In its representation to the chief secretary, it expressed disappointment that no action has been initiated against the DL&RSO despite a case registered against him at Seppa police station.
Seeking that all files and document be seized from him for free and fair investigation, the association further demanded that all line officials/members involved in the embezzlement should also be arrested.
A case was registered with chief judicial magistrate Seppa by Shea Techi, Lalang Techi and Koram Teli of Rilloh village against the DL&RSO for alleged siphoning off of the compensation budget within the community land amounting to crore of rupees. The CJM had directed OC PS Seppa to register the case and investigate into it.
Enquiry sought into recent recruitment
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: The Arunachal Vigilance Forum (AVF) has demanded enquiry into the recent selection of JE (Civil)/JE (TW&GW)/draftsman-II/upper division clerk under water resources department.
In its complaint letter to the WRD minister, it demanded that the authority should not issue appointment letters to the selected candidates until the matter is probed.
ABKLSU writes to education minister
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: The All Bameng Khenewa & Lada Students' Union (ABKLSU) has demanded upgradation of Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya, Bameng saying that the girls after passing out from the school, which is only till class VIII, have to face lots of problem to get admission in other schools. It has written to the education minister in this regard.
Its other demands include renovation of Govt Middle School Lada, subject teachers for Govt Secondary School Bameng, Govt Residential School Pakke, Govt Middle School Khenewa and Govt Residentail School Liyang Morang and improving the school infrastructures.
ALSDVF allege illegal appointments of teachers
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: Alleging illegal appointment of 75 SSA teachers in the district since 2013, the All Lower Subansiri District Volunteer Front (ALSDVF) has demanded for its immediate cancellation and fresh advertisement for conducting interviews against the posts.
Going against the RR of the department, it claimed that the selection was made on pick and choose policy without following any guidelines and without any advertisement.
It also demanded refund of Rs 2,93750/- for hygiene and napkins from 2013 to 2015 falsely taken against private schools, whereas there is clear cut instruction not to provide this scheme in private schools.
In its submission of charter of demands to the Lower Subansri DC, also drawing attention towards alleged misuse of chief minister's flagship programme (Vidya Scheme) from 2013 till date, misuse of RSTC fund from 2013 to 2015, misuse of funds for Govt Girls residential schools in the district and absentee teachers, it sought action against the issues raised within 15 days and warned to launch democratic movement if the demands are not met with.
Training on Digital Payment System organized
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: A day-long training programme on 'Digital Payment System-Towards a cashless India' was organized by the Dibang Valley district administration under the chairmanship of DC, Tamune Miso at the DC's office here on Thursday.
Speaking on the occasion, DC urged the participants consisting of students, PRI members, officers, staff, general public, merchants and traders to strive towards achieving the goal of a cashless society free from corruption.
Training was imparted to all the participants on the methods of digital payments through bank cards, USSD-mobile based banking (*99# banking), Aadhar enabled payments, e-Wallets, unified payment interface (UPI) and other mobile phone based apps.
DC seeks promotion of digital transactions
PASIGHAT, Dec 23: Deputy Commissioner Isha Khosla has asked the citizens to promote digital transactions in a meeting with the petrol pumps owners, traders/shopkeepers/market association and officers here at the Siang hall to ensure immediate implementation of digital payment in the district on Wednesday
Following the government guidelines, East Siang administration is doing awareness camps across the district and encouraging the people to use E-wallets, such as Paytm to serve as a cashless transaction tool.
DC Khosla appealed the people to extend their helping hand to the district administration. DIPRO
Kundra reviews power scenario
Aalo, Dec 23: The Commissioner Power and Finance Ashish Kundra made a whirlwind visit to Pasight, Aalo and Mechuka to oversee the power scenario, implementation of Hydel projects works, township roads, removal of utilities on highway and digital payment system. He also interacted with the HoDs in a meeting held at DC Conference Hall on Wednesday. Kundra insisted on serving show cause notices to those companies who have been entrusted to take up Hydro Electrical Projects for not initiating any preliminary works for many years.
Indexing and computer billing of Urban, Rural and Military and Para military should be done separately in order to assess exact power requirement, consumption and revenue generation, added Kundra. He also stressed on convening a meeting with Power Grid to settle problems of transmission as early as possible.
West Siang Deputy Commissioner Gamli Padu gave a detail presentation on various hydro power projects and innovative projects being proposed for Aalo Township. The SE PWD Er Tumto Kamsi, SE Power Er Gyati Tada and several other officials highlighted about activities undertaken by their respective departments. (DIPRO)
DC check teacher absenteeism
TEZU, Dec 22: Lohit DC Danish Ashraf made unannounced visits to several schools in the district to take stock of their functioning and checked the attendance of teachers.
Accompanied by CO Une Pertin, he enquired about the numbers of teachers, assistants and other workers present in the respective schools.
Ashraf also asked about their punctuality in schools and said that stern actions will be taken against teachers who were absent without proper leave approval.
In the six schools they visited, a total of fourteen teachers were found to be absent. Out of these, five leave applications are yet to be submitted to the concerned authorities. Nine were either submitted or not applied at all and one teacher was found to be late, who came to the school only after the DC's visit.
The DC said that the veracity of leave applications will be cross checked with the concerned authorities and teachers found absent without proper reasons will be dealt with strongly.
Emphasising on the importance of imparting basic education to children and the role played by teachers in shaping their future, he exhorted them to perform their duties diligently.
Taking strong note of the absenteeism and deteriorating quality of education in the district, he said that all leave applications for teachers in Lohit district will be forwarded through DC from now onwards. He also said that biometric attendance system will be soon implemented in all schools.
Social Awareness tour
ITANAGAR, Dec 23: The Nugong Banggo Kebang (NBK) had conducted a social awareness tour of Nugong Banggo area from December 12 to 20.
The tour which started from Sissen village, culminated at Riew village covering a distance of around 80 km trekking on foot.
The motto of the awareness tour, among others was to discourage alcoholism and drugs, to generate awareness among the people about the importance of education and to make the village youth aware about various government schemes meant for the rural people.
The team led by President NBK Tapun Taki interacted with villagers.
Nugong Banggo Kebang adopted a resolution to systematise the issues relating to development like road connectivity and preservation of rare endangered flora and fauna of the Banggo.
There will be complete ban on hunting, fishing and collection, forest resources, like medicinal plants, cane etc.
Selling of liquor, Guthkas and streamlining of education and posting of teachers were some of the important points to be implemented effectively from Janauary 1, 2017 in whole of Nugong Banggo area.
After completion of the social awareness tour, the NBK team apprised the whole scenario of the Banggo to Deputy Commissioner, Siang District Rahul Singh at his office Chamber on last Wednesday and Deputy Commissioner has assured us to fulfill the demands as far as possible.
Editorial
Let the expert decide
The green field airport project is once again in limelight for all the wrong reasons. The airport which is in offing since last many years is yet to see light of the day. The land affected people of Hollongi have alleged that present government is again planning to shift back airport to Karsingsa. They have threatened to launch agitation incase govt goes ahead with the plan. It’s sad that successive state governments have miserably failed to properly pursue this project. The then Union Home Minister Shivraj V Patil laid the foundation stone of Greenfield airport at Karsingsa in 2007. A decade has passed but airport has not came up and it continuous to mire in controversy.
It is difficult to say who should be blamed for the mess surrounding airport project. But there are no denying that bureaucrats be it in state level and also in Delhi played a major role in delaying the project. Even though foundation stone was laid at Karsingsa, the work never started as finance ministry official initially raised concern over high cost for earth cutting works. Out of blue in 2012 Airport Authority of India (AAI) recommended Hollongi as the new site. Technical Committee constituted by Union ministry of Civil Aviation rejected the Banderdewa site on reasons that the site is surrounded by hilly terrains and obstacles besides limited scope for future expansion and poor safety environment and high cost implications. Irate over the decision of ministry, the people of Karsingsa filed litigations after litigations which further delayed the project. Enough time has been lost. State government in consultations with civil aviation minister should take a firm decision and select the site for airport at the earliest. People of both Karsingsa and Hollongi should let expert decide which is the best site and do not create unnecessary obstacles. Because of their infighting, the state stands to lose a major developmental project.
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Readers’ Forum
Rahul needs education on demonetization
Dear Editor,
This refers to your editorial “New Round of battle” (Dec 22). Rahul Gandhi’s allegation of corruption on PM Modi clearly shows that he always rants and attacks Modi without original policies of his own. When the majority of the population supports the fight against 'Black money' he blames Modi.
Because of his immaturity, the Congress is failing badly in the country. Time and again Rahul has proved that he is unfit for the post he is holding which was handed over not based on his hard work but because of the family tag. The congress has all these years been sustained on the mystique of Gandhi name which is like balloon. Citizens all over India are very happy with the bold step of demonetisation taken by Modi. Though the common man has some temporary hardship, we see people standing in long queues rejoicing that Modi has taken this bold step to eradicate loads of black money stacked up in the country.
It is high time that Rahul is educated by his own party about the effect of demonetisation
which is resorted to whenever the black money menace becomes unbearable and erodes
the very basis of the economy. Congress is needlessly exposing itself by providing
weak and baseless arguments and thereby losing whatever little support they have
among the informed public opinion. Rahul must prove himself, if he can do some good
for the common people of the Country. His statement on Modi calling note ban “Man-
Yours,
Vinod C. Dixit
Ahmedabad
Noise pollution on the move
Dear Editor,
"Noise is defined as unwanted sound, sound which pleases the listeners is music and that which causes pain and annoyance is noise". At times what is music for some can be noise for others.
Lately, I am waking up in the middle of the night to the ear shattering thump of the aftermarket exhaust fitted mostly in the various models of the Royal Enfield bikes.
My financial status doesn't allow me to afford a car yet, hence technically it makes me a biker as well, purist would find it hard to concur with me, however, what you all might agree with is the fact of the pain of waking up in the middle of the night and then the uphill task of falling asleep again is certainly not amusing.
I understand that it's human to be proud of the legacy of the Enfield brand which stretches back to 1909 but how is it fair to disturb my sleep?
According to Noise standards for automobiles, domestic appliances and construction
equipments have been notified in Part 'E', Schedule-
We live in a country where only the rider wears a helmet and the pillion, well what're the odds of pillion rider getting hurt if an accident occurs, you know, people honk for no apparent reason and seat belts are the least used part of a car, they might even had discontinued it for cost cutting measures, if it wasn't for mandatory safety features.
It's true that if you modify your stock Royal Enfield exhaust with the various thumping ones like Goldee, Indore, Wild Boar, Short Bottle, Chennai, rubber at the end, mudflaps etc. just wouldn't make you a head turner along with sleep killer but their mouth won't be kind, however, if you have a well maintained beauty, sound or not, don't know about others but I'll take a picture of her, it's no secret that people hate bikers, let’s not give them an another reason.
Riding a motorcycle is about passion, freedom, brotherhood, living life on the edge, the thrill, the sheer excitement, fun, speed on track or negotiating with notorious Capital Complex traffic but not about the arrogance, superiority, serious numb cold face, like you own the road, everything has its flaws. Here's an irony, you ride motorcycle named Bullet which starts to shake like a belly dancers hips once you hit 60 kmph, you're buying a motorcycle paying more than 1 lakh, if the alloy wheels were a thing, wouldn't the manufacturer had already provided on the motorcycle? Even TVS Star City has one, sorry two! No offence, Dhoni and Star City owners, my point is, it beats the point of the sketch, retro, in this case but then again it's your hard earned money.
At the end of the day, I only want to get some good sleep, is it too much to ask for? You know how hard it is to find a rented apartment in Itanagar.
I don't mean to disrespect or offend any biker or biking community and hope you'll take it as a humor and good spirit. I'll only sincerely request everyone to ride properly with full on gears, respect other road users, the law and most importantly for the love of god please stop revving your motorcycles at 2 AM, anytime after 6 AM, it is welcomed, then maybe I can sell off my alarm clock on EBay or something.
Good luck, ride safe, Godspeed.
Yours,
An Insomniac
Itanagar
Hijacked health sector
Dear Editor,
Thanks to lack of government participation, involvement and control, health sector has practically been hijacked from the domain of lower and middle class by the private players. Sky rocketing cost of medicines has forced 68 per cent of Indian citizens to live without access to medicines. Protection of life is our fundamental right which is enshrined in the Article 21 of the Constitution of India. Moreover, Article 47 says, “The State shall regard the raising of the level of nutrition and the standard of living of its people and the improvement of public health as among its primary duties".
Unfortunately, such primary duties have not been discharged by our governments since independence. According to Global Hunger Index 2016, 1 in 3 children in India is facing stunted growth, 15 per cent of our population undernourished from lack of food and 194.6 million Indians go hungry every day.
Health for all still remains a distant dream. It is a pity that life saving treatments are linked with the capacity of our credit cards. As a result, majority of our population are forced to learn the art of dying without having medicines and treatments. Government hospitals need to outnumber private ones to give the latter a run for their money and to translate the Article 21 and Article 47 of the constitution of India into action. In addition, medicines should be made affordable by controlling their profit margin.
Yours,
Sujit De, Kolkata
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