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2011
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February  - 26

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Centre to release PMGSY fund  for Arunachal soon: Agatha

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: Union Minister of State for Rural Development Agatha Sangma today said that the Centre will soon release huge amount of PMGSY fund to Arunachal Pradesh.   State Govt will able to improve 40 per cent of the rural road connectivity of the landlocked state with the fund to be released soon,  Agatha said while interacting with the media  persons  here today.

Agatha Sangma is  in  the state capital today on his three-day tour to Arunachal. She will attend the Nyokum Yullo celebration as chief guest at Nyapin on Feb 26. Stressing the need of proper coordination and communication between the state and Centre in order to accelerate development activities in this landlocked Arunachal, Agatha, however, said “northeastern states including Arunachal Pradesh should not entirely depend on Center for funds. Pointing out the enormous scope to generate revenue from tourism and agri-horticulture sectors, Sangma categorically said Arunachal should formulate  proper plan and strategy to enhance revenue.

The union minister further informed that she had already proposed a separate meeting of all Rural Development Ministers of North East to be held in Arunachal Pradesh within a month or two to explore the various resources of  the  region.

Earlier in the evening, she had an interaction programme with the heads of the department of Rural Development, RWD, PHED, and officers from Arunachal Pradesh Rural Roads Development Agency (ARRDA) in presence of the Comssioner, RD Tape Bagra.  ARRDA is the agency executing the works taken up under PMGSY in the state. This was followed by a PowerPoint presentation on developmental schemes being implemented by the department concerned.

During the discussion with the officers of the respective departments, Agatha enquired about the implementation of PMGSY and total sanitation campaign and various other centrally sponsored schemes particularly meant for development of rural areas  in the state. The officers present in the meeting apprised the union minister of various projects being implemented such as total sanitation campaign, rural water supply projects and the achievements made under the Prime Minister Gramin Sadak Yojana. The union minister was also apprised of the bottleneck and difficulties being faced by the department concerned due to certain guidelines of the Centre and allocation of fund based on population of the state.

Among others, PHED secretary Tomi Ete was also present during the meeting.  

 

APSIC hurt by ‘open market’ remark

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: The Arunachal Pradesh State Information Commission (APSIC) said that the information commissioners were “extremely hurt” by an ‘undignified comment’ in an official note written by Chief Secretary Tabom Bam.

The five-member APSIC, headed by State Chief Information Commissioner Nyodek Yonggam,  said that they requested for  HRA (house rent allowance) in absence of accommodation facility for them, sumptuary allowance and other facilities as admissible to other Govt employees, but the request had been  turned down by the chief secretary.

Making available to the Press a copy of the “official note”  of the chief secretary,  the APSIC said “this time around the Arunachal Pradesh Information Commissioners were extremely hurt while going by the official correspondence note written by the Chief Secretary mentioning that  information commissioners of Arunachal Pradesh have been appointed from ‘open market’  having no civil service background.”

The APSIC in a complaint letter written to the  Union Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions requested him to take “appropriate disciplinary action” against the state Chief Secretary for “not cooperating and implementing the RTI Act in Arunachal Pradesh and having malice attitude towards the statutory body, APSIC”.

The CS in its official note on April 6, 2010 wrote:  “They have been making such demand at par with Information Commissioners of other States. In other States, the Information Commissioners are appointed from  the retired IAS/IPS/IFS and other Central Govt services and therefore,  these appointees continue to avail the facilities which they had enjoyed while serving in the govt. In respect of Arunachal Pradesh, Information Commissioners have been appointed directly from the open market and they do not have the civil service background. It is for decision whether the facilities as demanded should be given to them.”

However, the APSIC in its complaint letter to union minister further said RTI Act 2005 did not prescribe that only retired IAS/IPS/IFS should be appointed as information commissioners.

 

ATSU stage dharna, demand solution to problems

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: All Tirap Students’ Union (ATSU) has staged a daylong dharna  in front of the DC Office Khonsa today demanding  pro-active steps for solutions  to various problems confronting the district. Pointing  out the  factional clash between the NSCNgroup in the Tirap, the ATSU  appealed to the  state Govt  in particular, district administration and MLAs  in general to take immediate  step for restoration of peace  and  also demanded proper strategy to bring the misguided youths of the district to the mainstream.  

The union also demanded adequate security measures for the heads of the offices in the district. It said most of the officers are not attending offices in district headquarter as they are feeling insecurity after the gun battle between  the two warring faction.

Other demands of the union included proper implementation of the KSA – LAZU RGGVY Project worth Rs. 6.4 Crore and  first preference to the local people in tender works for implementation of various Govt schemes. ATSU also appealed to the AAPSU to take initiative  for solution to various problems of the district.

 

AAPSU team visits Seba village

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: Members of All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU) lead by President Takam Tatung visited Seba village, situated in picturesque Pappu valley area of East Kameng district on 17th of this month.  On their arrival AAPSU team was welcomed by Apang Welly, ZPM, Seppa West who is also resident of Seba village.

Impressed with splendid natural beauty of Pappu valley and immense tourism potentiality of the region, AAPSU President Takam Tatung expressed dismay over the poor infrastructure which has become stumbling block for the area.  “We are all surprised to know that such a beautiful place exist in our state. Pappu Valley can become the next big thing in tourism circuit of Arunachal if authorities give proper attention to infrastructure issues,” said AAPSU President Takam Tatung. He also urged elected leaders of region to pay urgent attention to the pathetic condition of road between Sagalee and Seppa. “This stretch of road should be repaired at the earliest. It reduces the travelling time between Itanagar and Seppa. Also it will spare Arunachalee citizen from unnecessary harassment arising out of Assam band,” stated Tatung.  Expressing happiness over visit of AAPSU President and his team to Seba village, ZPM Apang Welly sought AAPSU’s intervention in solving various problems plaguing his village. “Till now we don’t have any electricity supply in our village. Even there is no provision for drinking water supply. Often villagers have to walk miles to the stream to collect drinking water. People of Seba village are still living in 19th century,” informed Apang Welly. He further added, “We hope with the visit of AAPSU team, our beautiful Pappu Valley will find its true place in tourism circuit of Arunachal. Villagers are always ready to cooperate with concerned authorities if they carry out developmental activities with proper vision keeping in mind needs of villagers.”

 

AITSE Award for VKV Roing student

Correspondent

ROING, Feb 25: Ahhie Mega (11), a sixth grader at Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya School in Roing, is the winner of the All India Talent Search Examination (AITSE) conducted by National Teachers Council at Bangalore.

She will receive her prize in Bangalore in an award giving ceremony to be held in September next. The award includes a cash prize and a laptop.

Ahhie is one of the top winners from the entire Northeast in her sixth grade, along with five other winners.

The test is conducted at pre-primary level to senior level. The Talent Search Examination consists of Mental Ability Test and Scholastic Ability Test.

“Her hard work and motivation given by the teachers paid”, said Anil Kumar, Principal VKV. “Children generally don’t take these tests seriously, but she took it seriously.”

Ahhies's dad, Dr Oken Megha himself is recipient of National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) scholarship, J C Bose Award and winner of National Science Exhibition in his school days.

 

Micro-irrigation project inaugurated

ROING, Feb 25:  A Micro-Irrigation Project from Mobom Korong (river) near Balek Village, around 7 km from the   district headquarter was inaugurated by Chiliko Meto, Chairperson, Zilla Parishad Roing today. This project was constructed by the Water Resource Department, Roing with a cost of Rs 9.70 Lacs. The project with 400 metre concrete cement channel and 1 km kuccha channel having 0.9 cubic water carrying capacity will irrigates more than 10 hectares of Wet Rice Cultivated fields of the area. The project was commenced on March 17, 2008 and commissioned on December 31, 2010.

Meto expressing satisfaction on the quality of the work lauded the Water Resource Department, Roing for execution of such quality work and also for showing transparency and accountability in implementing various schemes under the department which he further opined that it is an example to be followed by other departments of the district. He also said that the district has enormous potential of streams/rivers which can be harnessed for irrigation purpose under Micro-irrigation project thereby bringing many dry land fields to WRC fields which would largely benefit the farming community.

M Debariyal, EE, Maga Tasso, AE, Bomyem Tayeng, AE of WRD, Oling Modi, Contractor, Panchayat leaders, GBs, Public and Officials were present on the occasion. DIPRO

 

Etalin PHC gets ambulance, DC inspects development projects

ANINI, Feb 25:  Upper Dibang Valley deputy commissioner Abu Tayeng today handed over  the  Ambulance key to Dr. Deori,  Medical Officer, PHC, Etalin in a small   but impressive function at PHC premises today.  The ambulance was procured under Border Area Development Programme (BADP). ZPC E. Meya,  other panchayat leaders, govt officials and medical staff were present on the occasion.

The PHC Etalin is being run and managed by Karuna Trust under PPP model.

Speaking in the function, DC informed that two numbers of Ambulances  were procured under BADP for District Hospital, Anini and PHC, Etalin in order to revamp the health services.

After the function, Tayeng paid whirlwind visit to many small and big projects being executed under BADP in the circle to have assess the quality and  work progress. He instructed the engineer in-charge to ensure quality work and timely completion of the projects/schemes.

DC also inspected the progress in restoration work of Etalin-Malinye road which got completely washed away by a massive landslide during last years’ monsoon havoc.  

Recalling the assurance given by Director General Border Roads (DGBR) of restoring the said road connectivity within ten days during his visit to Dibang Valley on 13th Dec, 2010 last, DC expressed his displeasure on the slow progress of restoration work even after a lapse of more than two months of his DGBR’s personal assurance.

Tayeng further  took stock of the community development work being undertaken so far by the JPC Ltd and urged the Company to strictly adhere to the community development programme  as per MoU. DIPRO

 

Free eye  check up camp at Miao

CHANGLANG, Feb 25: The District Health Society (NPCB), Changlang conducted free eye check up cum cataract operation camp at Miao CHC from Feb 17-23.

The team of doctors which was led by Dr. Taba Khanna, Eye Specialist, Changlang comprised of Mr. D. Maity, Ms. D. Bagra, Ms. B. Ampi and Mr. R.P. Sharma, examined and treated 470 patients, including 161 spectacles prescription during the screening camps at T. R. camp, Kharsang PHC and Miao CHC.

During the post operative counseling session, Dr Khanna emphasized and elaborated on the need of strict post operative care by the patients and their attendants. He further advised them to attend post operative check up on 8th April. More such eye operation will be done during the multi-disciplinary Health Mela to be conducted by District Health Society at District Hospital, Changlang from March 5-7, Khanna informed and urged upon the patients to avail  the benefit  from  free health check up camp. DIPRO incharge

 

BJP’s  hunger strike passes off peacefully

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: The 48-hour hunger strike launched in front of the Addl. Deputy Commissioners office at Hayuliang by BJP Anjaw district unit passed off peacefully on Feb 24, informed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Arunachal Pradesh media cell in a release today. This was the second phase of agitation launched by the BJP unit against corruption in the district.

The BJP said that  in its second phase the BJP unit demanded resignation of  Kalikho Pul, RWD Minister and Hayuliang MLA over rampant black marketing of PDS commodities especially Rice and Atta allocated in the district since 2006.

The Anjaw District BJP Unit had earlier staged mass Anti-Corruption Rally on Feb 11 in the district and demanded the state government for immediate probe into the massive scandals in the PDS commodities and other centrally sponsored projects.

Meanwhile the District BJP unit in its district committee meeting soon after the hunger strike decided to go to villages and launch village awareness activities in its next phase. This would be followed by mass rally, the party informed.

 

An ode to Kameng river

Tamo Dadda

For me Kameng River is one of the most beautiful, fun and frolic Rivers of the all rivers and streams that I am accustomed in Arunachal Pradesh. The biasness could be because I was born on her banks and know her kindness and wraths deeply than of any other rivers and streams. It has been my childhood obsession to traverse its length from Seppa to Tippi since I can remember. During teenage days attempts were made to raft on it with inflated truck tubes but the biting chillness always hampered such futile attempts. But the dream lived on….

Of all major rivers systems of Arunachal Pradesh, Kameng River is one of the few that truly originate from within the boundaries of the state. It is thought to originate from the glacial base of Kaaradaii mountain ranges of the Kameng districts.  As it enters the hills of Kameng district criss-crossing the Aka and Nyishi mountain ranges it increase in volume and size by accepting various large and small perennial streams journeying down to the plains of Assam as Jia-Borali river.  The river’s stretch from the mountains of Chayang Tajo to the valley of Seppa is characterized by rapids of class-IV to class VI. The tone and character of rapids is measured increasing from class-I to class-VI as a yardstick by the rafter’s .One of the major tributary of the Kameng River is the Bichom River, which it meets near a place called Bana. The importance of river Bichom to the survival of Kameng River can be felt as soon as one flows down from their confluences. It is from this confluence, one can feel the real character of Kameng River with its increase in volume and naughtiness. Except for the river Papu, which originates from the mountain ranges of Pakke-Kessang and meets the Kameng River few kilometers from the confluences of Bichom and Kameng River, no major streams meets the river Kameng further down.

In the late months of the year 2008, I got a call from an Air force fighter pilot, who happened to be a son of one of my favorite professor from Wildlife Institute of India. He informed their plan to raft the Kameng River from Marjangly to Tippi in month of February 2009 and they wanted me on the team as local biologist, which I gladly accepted. But a freak Tata Sumo accident on the way to Ziro broke my left shoulder and my dream to raft with the team. But the dream lived on…..

THE GORGE

My dream was to be realized when a member of the earlier team was so smitten by the wildness and youthfulness of the river Kameng that he organized a team that included me to raft the river again in the month of February 2010. With wet suit and life jacket on we started from our base in Vessang, a small village near Seppa and rafted whole day to reach the confluences of river Kameng and Bichom. Just before reaching this confluence one has to negotiate with a class-IV rapid which we called it as ‘Tiger Rapid’ for we saw a huge pug-mark of a male tiger along its bank.

As one reaches the confluences of river Kameng and Bichom one is greeted by the roar of two different types of river meeting. The meeting of cold and dark blue water of Kameng river with that of fast flowing whitish water of Bichom surrounded by lush green tropical ever green forest is a sight to behold. The right bank of Bichom is flanked by the mighty Yanjoro Mountains. This is the mountains where it is believed that sprits called ‘Yapii’ (Nyishi dialect) especially that of children’s reside after their death. If one dares enough to climb this mountain, one may find small water holes called Sanyak (Nyishi dialect) on top of this mountain. Because of its reverence by the local tribes, it was taboo to hunt and cut trees from this mountain but with the change in lifestyle and religion of the local tribes such unique system of conservation is fast eroding. The present generations of Seppa Township won’t believe that once in late 1980’s Seppa Township was closed for almost three days when all citizens of the town irrespective of whether tribal or non-tribal gathered in the confluence of this two river to participate in community ‘Sebo-peyto’-a system of diverting and drying one part of river to catch fishes.  

Next morning all the garbage’s, plastics, even chocolate wrappers were tightly packed and were taken back to Delhi, without leaving any traces of civilizations on the pristine beaches of Kameng River. And we rafted on……. About three kilometers down from the confluences of river Kameng and Bichom, one enters the protected forest of Pakke Tiger Reserve on its left bank. And after negotiating spine-chilling rapids and gulping cold water we reach the eerie silence of the gorge. It is on the mouth of this beautiful gorge that NHPC has proposed Kameng-II hydro-electric project.

The gorge may be about 15-20 kilometers in length with high rocky walls and silent Kameng flowing by. It is one of the pristine and few virgin places one find on the entire stretch of the Kameng River. The high raised rocky walls of both the banks due to years of weathering by the river has formed beautiful caricatures of various forms testing the limits of ones imaginations, interspersed with numerous water falls and caves. The only gorge that can marvel the beauty of this gorge, which I can think of, is the gorges formed by the Zanskar river of Ladakh.

Immersed in our thoughts after leaving the eerie silence and beautiful gorge, suddenly we were startled by the falling rocks. The rocks were disturbed by a pair of Chinese goral from its steep slopes. The gorals are goat –antelope that prefers steep slopes of the Himalayas with low tree cover, moderate shrubs and open grassy banks interspersed with cliffs. The greatest conservation threat to this magnificent animal is from poaching.  Rejuvenated with the sighting of this magnificent animal and after negotiating with around 32 rapids in a day, we reached our Camp for the night-‘the Stampede camp’. The camp was so named because in the earlier trip, late in night a herd of elephants had appeared near the camp which had caused stampede among the rafters.

On the fifth evening of continuous rafting we reached our camp-Tippi Forest House. This forest house is one of the finest rest houses one will find in the entire state mostly due to beautiful location. The rest house is just located near the beautiful Kameng River surrounded by lush green evergreen forest of Pakke Tiger Reserve in one side and rest surrounded by beautiful reserve forest, which is fast eroding.

Threats

The greatest threat to very survival of the Kameng River along with its unique wildlife and to her peoples is the proposal to built dam across it. More than 13 hydroelectric projects with combined capacity of more than 1500MW of electricity is being proposed to be constructed on the river Kameng and her tributaries.  With no quarter of any opposition to such magnitude of destruction of ecosystem, lifestyle and livelihoods of her people, the youthfulness and frolic days of the Kameng River is numbered. One should not be fooled by the terminologies such as ‘Run-of river projects’, where it is claimed that such project will have least damage to the ecosystem and livelihoods of the local people. Just imagine a meter high speed-breaker built on a highway with a fancy terminology as ‘Run of the traffic project’. One can imagine the traffic jams and chaos it will create, leading to frustration and anger and not to mention the constant threats of life, properties and culture of the local people due such ‘Run of the traffic project’. And now imagine what more than 50 or 100 meters high dams of ‘Run-of river projects’ will cause to ecosystem, lifestyle and livelihoods of the local people.

Finally in few years time beautiful youthful Bichom won’t be meeting Kameng River at Bana as her majority of water will be diverted for running the motors of 600 Mw Kameng Hydroelectric project in Kimi. One of the most trusted tributaries of Kameng River will be death. With her the memories of thousand of souls who have shared their happiness and grieve with the river will be lost for ever. And with her the slow death of the river Kameng begins…. (The writer is a Wildlife Biologist and be contacted at: -tamodadda@gmail.com)

 

College week celebration concludes

ITANGAR, Feb 25: The week long multi-disciplinary college week of Don Bosco College Itanagar came to a close today with the valedictory function graced by Dr. Joram Begi, Director of Higher and Technical Education, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh. The college week included various events like sports, track and field events, and cultural and literary events.

Speaking at the valedictory function the chief guest, Dr. Joram Begi, Director of Higher and Technical Education, congratulated the students of the college for their outstanding performance in academic and co-curricular activities.  He further said, “Don Bosco College has set a new benchmark for all the colleges of Arunachal Pradesh.” He specially commended the outstanding performance of the students in the last university examinations bagging 28 out of 56 top ten ranks and exhorted the students continue to excel in their academic performance.

He further added that the college has the best NSS unit repeatedly contributing significantly through this outreach programme. Commenting on a tribal dance performed by eight students of which only two belonged to that tribe, he said, “The students come from various tribal and non-tribal communities from different states of North East yet they are on stage performing tribal dances gracefully as if it is their own which shows the sense of integration which is essential to education.”

Commenting on the scenario of higher education in the state he added, “The reputation of an institution largely depends on the students themselves. Unionism is a big problem today in the various educational institutions of the state”. He exhorted the students, “There is no place for complacency but be disciplined and excel in your academic performance.”

The Chief Guest also gave away the prizes to the winners of the various individual and group events. The valedictory function was made colourful by the prize winning modern and traditional dances and songs.

In his welcome address Fr. K.O. Sebastian, the Principal of the college, commented on the contribution of Dr. Joram Begi to the state of Arunachal Pradesh and to the college in particular from its very inception.

The college week was a five day event consisting of various track and field events, cultural events like dances, songs, mime, etc. and literary events like quiz, debate and extempore speech. The events were coordinated by Fr. Shilanand Kerketta.

 

No corrupt practices on PDS item: Admn

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: Reacting to the BJP’s hunger strike  alleging corruption on PDS items in Anjaw district, the Anjaw district administration today clarified that “there were no such instances where people of Anjaw district were forced to starvation and there was no instance of any kind of corrupt practice on PDS items since 2006 as alleged.

Anjaw district  deputy commissioner C. S. Jamoh in a statement further  said, “even during last monsoon from April 2010 to July 2010 when all surface communication of the District was cut off due to heavy rain and sudden cloud burst like situation, the state government had managed to air drop ration items to all FPS by helicopter to ensure no starvation takes place. The district administration even took the help of defense in providing ration items to tide over the situation.

The monthly requirement of rice for Anjaw is 1800 quintals but GOI vide order no. 1-1/2008 BP-III part 1(2) dated 13/3/2008 and 23/3/2008 had drastically curtailed monthly quota of rice from 1800 quintals, thereby apparently shortfall of rice occurred in the district. For this, neither the state government nor the carriage contractor can be held responsible, the DC further clarified. During the alleged period, some higher officials of FCI had visited Fair Price Shops (FCI) in the interior places of the district and had expressed the satisfaction on the management of PDS items in the district, he added.

‘The entire process of the management is closely monitored by the district administration to ensure the allotted quota of PDS items in the district. Had there been any starvation case occurred in yesteryear in the district the matter would have been reported upon to district administration for immediate relief and rehabilitation measures. Therefore, highlighting the issue after a lapse of several years speaks the volume of entire episode’

He further clarified that   the alleged swindling of government fund is unfounded and baseless as all centrally sponsored schemes undertaken in Anjaw district are under constant monitoring of the third party duly constituted by the central government. Recently, a team of officials from the NEDFI had inspected the implementation of schemes in the district for a fortnight and no any adverse remarks has been given by the team, rather the team had appreciated the construction agencies for the good works, the DC added.

 

Cancer has answer if detected earlier

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: A seminar on “Management and treatment of cancer of N E region” was organized at Tura civil hospital  in Meghalaya on Feb 19.

Dr M A Sangma superintendent of Tura civil hospitals who chaired the seminar comment that tobacco is the main cause for cancer of mouth and throat in this region.

Dr M N Baruah prominent cancer specialist of India and the Director of  North East Cancer Hospital and Research Institute Jorabat Guwahati delivered a long and valued talk on head and neck cancer. He also said cancer has always an answer if detected early.

Replying to a question he said as per Atomic Energy’s study India need 2000 radiotherapy unit. But we have only 430 radiotherapy unit out of which only 120 unit of Linear accelerator facility available in entire country. Unfortunately in our seven states we have only two Linear Accelerators with seven cobalt therapy machine.  Linear Accelerator is the most modern equipment which can provide radiation in seconds to the cancer cell with cent percent accurately without damaging normal tissue.

Describing his personal experience of giving radiotherapy by Linear Accelerator at North East Cancer Hospital Jorabat he said it is encouraging to see the rapid recovery of cancer patient with minimum side effect. He also said America, Canada, and other European country banned  radiotherapy by Cobalt therapy machine because it damages normal tissue and make cancer patient more sick. All deep seated cancer tumors need radiation only by Linear Accelerator, there is no alternative if you have a LA with you, he added.

Dr. Pankaj Bhagabati MS and Dr. Srimanta Medhi MS of  North East Cancer Hospital presented papers  on Breast cancer and Thyroid Cancer.     

Doctors and sisters of Civil hospital, Christian hospital, Holy cross hospital and BSF hospital of Tura attended the seminar.

 

Many miles to go

Raju Mimi

Arunachal Pradesh has been conferred as the best in the ‘small state’ category for the IBN7's Diamond States Award.

According to IBN7 – “Diamond States Award is a prestigious and path breaking initiative of the IBN Network in partnership with Outlook. For the first time in the history of India, comes an award that celebrates human development by focusing on the common man, an award that redefines the parameters of successful growth.”

So what is the parameter used to redefine successful growth?

The IBN7 Diamond States Award in its website explains – “The selection process for ‘IBN7 Diamond States Awards’ will be a credible multi-pronged approach involving secondary data from authentic sources and primary data from a nation wide exercise conducted by Nielsen, the research partner for the awards.“

This implies that the information provided by Nielsen Company serves as headway to decision making for the award. Nielsen is a company that offers market information and services to its client in making best business decisions.

The award recognition is complimented by the news of state registering highest economic growth rate in the country of 22.43 percent in 2009-10. Well, this all must be music to ears of Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu, for which the credit is directly showered on him.

For the comfort of critics here: the recognition of the state government in the form of award is not what it is made to look like. In the Diamond States Awards list, Arunachal is not a big name. The top ranking for the best in the small states category went to Himachal Pradesh. Arunachal's name appears only in the third in the list of top three, which is not a bad start.

Pride instilled in the citizen by state’s growth story is not a true feeling unless each one of us has partaken in the tasks that created that pride. We must be aware that our state is modeled into a rent seeking and grant seeking economy.

Going by the conventional data, Arunachal still ranks 22nd (2005 survey) in HDI index, 24th in media exposure and 24th in Literacy among the 28 Indian states, which is indicative of poor state of life. We have miles to go before we actually can be smug about all these accolades.

 

SSB not just protects, its serves too

Nima Khenrab

TAWANG, Feb 25: In order to promote entrepreneurship among unemployed people of Tawang district, the 38th BN. SSB, Tawang a paramilitary force organized a four-week long vocational training programme under its Civic Action Programme.

More than 80 participants have been trained in tailoring, painting, computer and handicraft during the programme.

Addressing the participants in the programme the 38th Bn SSB Commandant Tsering Dorjai highlighted the Battalion’s contribution towards well-being of the lesser privileged. He said that they are not here just to protect but to serve as well.

During  the programme Tawang Monastery was provided a 25 KW Automech D.G. Set worth Rs. 431,551.00 and 21 numbers of Solar Lantern were issued to the resident of Kharung village to cope with the shortage in power supply.  An NGO based in Mukto village was presented an upgraded version of computer along with printer. A fully operational P. A. Equipment, 2 utensil sets, 23 numbers of blankets and 12 sewing machines were distributed to the trainees and beneficiaries from Mukto, Rho Timpu,  Gyamdong and Kharung villages.  

 The chief guest of the programme Tsering Tashi  said ‘Usually in functions I notice only presentation of superior speeches but today I see presentation of deeds. He expressed his gratitude to the SSB unit not only for safeguarding the borders but also  for their civic programme for the benefit of local people.

Besides the guests of honour Namgay Tsering, ASM Chairperson and Dr. Dilip Chutia, EAC Tawang, GBs, ASMs and NGOs from far away villages like Rho were present on the occasion.

 

BJP demands proper functioning of Naharlagun Industrial estate

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: Criticizing the State Industrial Policy, the Bharatiya Janata Party, Arunachal Pradesh demanded proper functioning of the Industrial Estates at Naharlagun. Industrial Estate, being the centre of skill development with specific objectives, ought to function in right direction for enhancing the economic development activities, said state BJP media cell in a release.

The BJP further said that constructions are taking place by dismantling the security wall of the industrial estate. People are also silently observing the development taking place while the district administration remains a silent spectator, it said.

The pathetic situation of the Industrial Estate Naharlagun shows how the successive Congress governments were not serious about economic empowerment  of people, particularly the unemployed youths and women of the state, the BJP further said.

The party demanded proper utilization of such a prime location with proper planning for special market complex like  that of the Government of Mizoram where the unemployed youths and women are getting opportunities to take up self-employment ventures.

Expressing resentment over the mushrooming of  shops in Govt land due to lack of proper  market planning in sectors in the Capital Complex, the party also demanded explanation from the Minister for Industries on the constructions dismantling the security wall of the Industrial Estate Areas.

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News Impact

Rural Expo begins

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: The Rural Expo organized by NN Charitable Society and sponsored by NABARD was formally inaugurated by MLA Techi Kaso along with Parliamentary Secretary Nabam Rebia in presence of NABARD General Manager BG Mukhopadhyaya at Nyokum Nyia ground, Nirjuli, today.

The expo mainly aims at encouraging local entrepreneurs for their economic growth and generating revenue for self-sustenance.

A total of 20 stalls, including food stalls, have been put up in the expo.

Meanwhile, both Kaso and Rebia were impressed with the initiative taken by the Society for improving rural economy.

 

APDA oppose Govt order

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: Arunachal Pradesh Doctors Association (APDA) has appealed the state Govt not to violate the APHS Cadre Rules -2000.

Claiming that  state Govt has issued an order on January 11 in which one IAS officer has been shown against the post of Director of Health Services(DHS), the Association in a memorandum addressed to the Chief Minister today said it strongly  opposed such order  since the post of DHS  is a technical and cadre post (APHS). Any attempt on the part of the Govt to violate the APHS cadre rules will invite a strong protest by the in-service doctors of Arunachal Pradesh, it said. As the works load of the health department is ever increasing, the APDA also submitted a memorandum to the Govt for creation of posts - one Director Medical Education and  another Principal Director in the department of health  and Family Welfare.

 

Two engineers arrested, main accused at large

ITANAGAR: Two Junior Engineers, namely, Iken Rike and Ateng Teng of Ziro Division were arrested by the Banderdewa Police in connection with Banderdewa PS case No.2/11 U/s 405/407/34 IPC for pilferage of construction materials, informed police sources. Further sources said that the main accused Tanung Jamoh, Assistant Engineer, is on the run and seeking anticipatory bail from the court.

Investigation so far reveals that 30 metric tons of iron rods were drawn from Satyam Ispat Banderdewa for three Micro Hydel Schemes in Kurung Kumey. The Investigating officer had visited the work sites and confirmed that the materials never reached its destinations, sources further added.

 

Nyokum greetings

ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Gen J J Singh has extended festival greetings and best wishes to all the people of Arunachal Pradesh on the auspicious occasion of Nyokum Yullo.

In his festival message, Gen Singh expressed his hope that the festivity ushers in happiness, bumper harvest and prosperity for all.

Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu has also extended his warm greetings to the people of Arunachal Pradesh particularly to the Nyishi community on the auspicious occasion of Nyokum festival.

Khandu believed that the festival will usher in peace, brotherhood, good health and prosperity in the society and is the platform to showcase our rich cultural heritage.

 

Arunachal to host 5th NE Chess C’ship

ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh has been shouldered to organize the 5th North East Chess Championship (NECC) 2012.

Meanwhile, All Arunachal Pradesh Chess Association (AAPCA), in a meeting held at Naharlagun recently, has constituted a 13-member organizing committee headed by Gem Taje and Tamchi Kache as chairman and vice chairman respectively for smooth conduct of the championship.

The meeting further decided to conduct training for budding chess players at Itanagar/Naharlagun.

 

Statehood day celebrated

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: People of newly created Parang circle celebrated statehood day with much fan fare.  Tana Bapu, circle officer of Parang was the chief guest for the day. Also present were students, PRI leaders, GBs and prominent social workers.

 

Pre-Nyokum celebrated

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: Pre-Nyokum Yullo was celebrated at Niya village, Banderdewa in a colour manner. Celebration which began on 21st February with volleyball competition ended yesterday when PTC team defeated STF to win championship.

Tungri Effa, member of steering committee (state Campa), department of environment & forest and RK Singh, auditor of capital complex petrol pump depot association were chief guest and guest of honour for the celebration. In his address chief guest Tungri Effa said Nyokum should spread message of love, peace and happiness among all the Arunachalees.   

 

Advocacy and awareness programme

ITANAGAR, Feb 25: A day long advocacy and awareness programme under reproductive child health scheme (RCH) was conducted by MM Charitable Trust at Poma yesterday.

On the occasion, Nani Sala Foundation Chairman, Nani Kojin highlighted on RCH programme. While, MM Charitable Trust Chairman Mamar Mara appealed the villagers, staffs of PHC and Sub centre Poma and Basarnolla to cooperate with the society for the welfare of women and children.

Gram Chairperson Techi Yali assured to cooperate with the society on RCH project in the area.

The programme was attended by ASHAs and women from Bamboo Industry, Poma.

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Monitoring and quality control needed

Dear Editor,

It has been rightly pointed out by one Techi Necha, (Feb 25) regarding the monitoring and quality work of JNNURM Scheme in the Capital Complex. In this regard I would like to throw some more lights on the issue that the UD, the State Agency for JNNURM Scheme, have not engaged its monitoring and quality control team till date even after the experts for the same purpose have already been recruited.  As per the team, whom I met in Naharlagun High Court last time, they were appointed in  August 2009 through proper interview, but they are yet to be inducted in service even after they made joining to the Department.

So taking above in account and the point highlighted by Techi Necha which implies that the UD has not maintained the  quality of works, I would like to say that such insensitive handling of such a big scheme by state agency is not appreciable.

The works carried out especially in the capital are appreciable, but at the sametime quality should be maintained. I appeal to the leaders of Capital Complex and administration to look into the matter for effective implementation of projects in capital complex.

Yours

Tam Tado

Naharlagun

 

Clarification

Dear Editor,

Apropos of the article in the Readers’ Forum in your daily dated 24th February, titled “Redress the problems of students” submitted by some of the students of Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh, we would like to clarify that the database server in the University Library was on the verge of being restored with additional enhancements to the software. Moreover, it is to be understood that unlike desktop computers, servers are not available off the shelf and it takes time for getting them delivered to the University.

For such matters, students, instead of going to press directly, are ought to know the details from the concerned authority.

Yours,

Registrar (i/c)

RGU

 

 

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