February 10
Congress seeks ouster of Pema and Mein
ITANAGAR, Feb 9: A day after the contents of the 60-
However, the APCC came to the rescue of former Chief Minister and Congress leader Nabam Tuki and claimed that Pul indicted him out of frustration after losing in the Supreme Court.
Further reacting to the series of allegation against Pema and Mein, the APCC said that state would not be secure under such politicians.
On Pul's claims that he was unable to accomplish Parliamentary Secretary P D Sona's demand for Rs 10 crore in cash and that he was given Rs 4 crore on July 11, 2016, the APCC asked Sona to respond to the allegations, and return the Rs 4 crore to the family members of Pul.
"The political leaders are habitual dissidents, who always look for their personal political benefit", said the APCC.
It also questioned the integrity of Minister Dr Mohesh Chai and Pul's wife, and said that they have compromised for their positions as MLA and minister.
14 ZPMs desert Congress, Kiren says don’t differentiate between old-
SEPPA, Feb 9: Saffronization of the state began in a pompous note here at Seppa, headquarters of East Kameng district, when hundreds of Panchayati Raj leaders, mostly Congress, swore allegiance to the saffron party in presence of state BJP President Tapir Gao, Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Union MoS Home Kiren Rijiju.
Present on the occasion were the four of five legislators of the district -
At least 14 ZPMs joined the party, including two from Bameng Assembly Constituency, four from Chayang Tajo Assembly Constituency, two from Seppa East Assembly Constituency and three each from Seppa West Assembly Constituency and Pakke Kesang Assembly Constituency.
Rijiju, while welcoming the PR leaders into the BJP fold, appealed to all to maintain bonhomie and work to strengthen the government both at the center and the state.
"Please avoid the tags 'Old BJP-
On behalf of the central government, Rijiju assured all out support to the state government in developing every district of the state.
"I can tell you that within the last two years many road projects have been sanctioned for East Kameng, which did not happen in the last 17 years!" he informed.
Rijiju called for cooperation with the state government and assured that he will be the 'bridge' between the central government and the state government.
He hailed Khandu, saying that despite being the youngest chief minister of the state, his ideas were fresh.
"Khandu's ideas and commitment to work for the people and the state are unlimited. I can say with conviction that under his rule the state will develop like never before," Rijiju said.
Addressing the people, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said that in all his three interactions with Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, he had given him specific directions to take each and every scheme of the government to the grass roots.
"Our grass roots are the Panchayati Raj leaders. Only through them we can successfully implement all welfare schemes of the government," he said, while exuding confidence that with the joining of PR leaders into the party. a smooth mechanism would be evolved for the benefit of the rural populace.
Family claims foul play in late Tajik’s death
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Feb 9: Claiming that there was serious foul play in the death of one Tajik Techi Tara, the United Leil Tara Youth Foundation (ULTYF) has questioned the role of the police Investigating Officer (IO) on the case.
Reportedly, late Tajik's body was fished out from Kameng River a week after he allegedly went missing, before a group of youths attacked him at a picnic location in Seppa on January 7, 2017.
The ULTYF alleged that the group of youth brutally attacked Tajik after a scuffle broke out at the picnic location and chased him down to Kameng River, where he drowned and eventually died.
A case has been registered with Police Station, Seppa with Case No. 06/17 under section 304/511/34 IPC.
Addressing reporters at the APC today, ULTYF President Debia Muj termed the incident as a gruesome murder and claimed that there was serious foul play in the case. The ULTYF president alleged that one Singdung Rikung, who is one of the accused in the case, bailed out another accused Kebo Rikung.
"How can an accused himself be the bailer?" questioned Muj, while alleging that the Investigating Officer tried to mislead the court in order to save the accused.
He further claimed that multiple injury marks were found on the dead body of late
Tajik, and that the strangulation marks around his neck suggests that he was murdered.
However, the ULTYF claimed that the police filed a simple case with a theory that
the deceased jumped into the river and did not arrest other co-
"Without a post mortem report, how can the police claim that it was a case of death due to drowning?" the foundation questioned, saying that the police let the adult accused off and instead arrested juveniles.
Meanwhile, the clan members have also submitted a representation to the Chief Minister
on Wednesday, demanding immediate arrest of the co-
The members also sought the suspension of the Officer In-
The clan members served 20 days ultimatum to the authority to bring justice to the
victim family, failing which, it would invite non-
The ULTYF also expressed surprise and displeasure over district-
Meanwhile, the ULTYF informed that it would conduct a peace rally cum candle light march on February 13 at Seppa.
Eight arrested for prostitution
ITANAGAR, Feb 9: At least eight people have been arrested in Tezu for prostitution. Lohit Police DySP (HQ) J K Lego informed that six women and two male customers were arrested by the police on February 7 after they were informed about the illegal flesh trade in a rented house.
The police team raided the spot, along with AMSU leaders of Tezu where the flesh trade was reportedly taking place. A case under Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956 has been registered and investigation is underway.
Reportedly, the arrested were engaged in flesh trade racket under one lady since
long, wherein various sections of people visited them. Contraceptives and condoms
and empty anti-
The police team, supervised by DySP Lego and OC PS Tezu Inspector Kuru Tatung, included SI Bukam Mossang, L/SI Roinem Jugli, L/SI Nich Rupa, and other PS staff.
Beyond barriers: The Nyokum Yullo
[ Dr Joram Begi ]
Nyokum Yullo has been known to the Nyishis of both Kameng and Subansiri region of Arunachal Pradesh since time immemorial; though it is difficult to ascertain as to whether the festival has ever been celebrated on clan or village level regularly.
However, it was in Joram that the festival was celebrated regularly every year since
their arrival in the area some 250 years ago. The Nyokum celebration was followed
by solemnising Dapoie, imposing certain restrictions of entry and exit from the premises
of the village. This drew the attention of the then administration, especially when
the Kimin-
As a matter of fact, the policy programmes of the then NEFA administration were entirely
guided by the Nehru-
Nehru once said: “I am alarmed when I see –not only in this country but in other great countries too – how anxious people are to shape others according to their own image or likeness, and to impose on them their particular way to living. We are welcome to our way of living, but why impose it to others? This applies equally to national and international fields. In fact, there would be more peace in the world if people were to desist from imposing their way of living on other people and countries.”
He further said, “I am not at all sure which is the better way of living, the tribal or our own. In some respects I am quite certain theirs is better. Therefore, it is grossly presumptuous on our part to approach them with an air of superiority, to tell them how to behave or what to do and what not to do. There is no point in trying to make of them a second rate copy of ourselves.”
Keeping the above in view, Nehru outlined his tribal policy in NEFA while writing the Foreword to Vernier Elwin’s famous book, APHILOSOPHYOFNEFA as: “People should develop along the lines of their own genius and we should avoid imposing anything on them. We should try to encourage in every way their own traditional arts and culture.”
From the above, it is quite clear that the preservation of traditional arts and culture of the local people was the laid down policy of the then NEFA administration. Encouraging the celebration of local festivals of all tribes of the state was one of the objectives of the policy. That is why a number of centralised celebration of local festivals, like Mopin, Dree, Solung etc. started during the second half of the 1960s. The first centralised celebration of the Nyokum Yullo at Joram in 1967 was also one of them.
Patronage of the then administration is also evident by the participation of a large number of government officials from Ziro in the festival. The District Research Officer and the District Field Publicity Officer were said to be the most active participants. As stated by Joram Tako and corroborated by Chukhu Talar, the district administration also granted a sum of Rs 2000 as financial assistance for the celebration of the festival.
It is important to note that the people of Joram used to celebrate Nyokum every year
after the transplantation of paddy is over and lush green plants flutter in the fields.
It is also to be noted that unlike other Nyishis, Joram -
Originally, there were four villages within Joram area, namely Sekh-
In 1967 it was the turn of Phu and Peil Joram. As usual, the divination of chicken
liver (Roksin Kognam) was done. House of Joram Bwtwng of Phu-
In the midway of the preparation, a proposal was received from the Nyishi students studying in Government High School, Ziro, led by Tadar Tang, General Secretary, All Subansiri District Students Union and Chukhu Talar, General Secretary, Students Union, Government High School, Ziro to upgrade the festival to a centralised celebration of the entire Nyishi community. As mentioned earlier, the idea was backed by the district administration. They also suggested shifting the venue from the usual Nyokum Putu to a more convenient place at Suil Pako (present residential campus of Joram Lalin).
Initially, the conservative Joram people were reluctant to agree to the proposal. Luckily, the host house (Ui Bergi Naam) of the festival, was the most progressive house of the entire Joram area. Joram Baat, a famous Head Gaon Burah of the time, was a member of the house, Joram Tako, son of Joram Bwtwng and Joram Tanya son of Joram Taluk and nephew of Bwtwng, were the first literate persons of Joram. They had little bit of exposure too. Other members of the house, Joram Tatami and Joram Tem were also forward looking persons.
This cumulative effect of the members of the house could convince other people of
Joram to share the Joram Nyokum with others for larger community interest. That is
why Joram Tako was chosen as the president of the festival organising committee,
Joram Elyu -
As per Joram Lalin, it was, however, Joram Takam, a prominent priest of the time, who finally opined that there would be nothing wrong if the combined celebration of the festival is allowed to take place.
Other prominent persons who took active part were Joram Dolyak, Joram Tachak, Joram Toi, Joram Rika, Joram Sakha, Joram Ekhin, Likha Gomb, Likha Rob, Likha Tash, Licha Donyi, Tanya Naning,Tanya Kachi, Dokhu Tarin,Taj Ribya, Taj Dogur, Joram Dokho, Joram Rika, Joram Teli and many others of Joram area villages .
From outside, Joram, Taba Tath and Taw Mima from Yazali, Talo Kojum and Gem Teri from Talo and Nguri Tem from Kimin were amongst the prominent participants in the festival.
As a matter of fact, the most important driving forces for breaking down the barriers of traditional Joram area confined Nyokum to a large scale celebration of the festival were the then students studying in Government High School, Ziro. That is why Chukhu Talar, a student from Government High School, Ziro was the general secretary of the organising committee of the festival. Similarly, Tadar Tang, also a student of the same school was the prime mover in organising the festival. Other students, Taw Tara, Taw Pekhi, Joram Lalin, Tarak Talin, Durr Richo, Likha Epo, Tadar Talar, Bei Temi, Hui Tat, Bengia Tolum, Joram Teti, Pil Tako and others took active part. The Nyishi NCC cadets and scout students under the command of Tadar Taniang and Dokhu Tanya respectively, volunteered for systematic and disciplined celebration.
As mentioned earlier, officers of the District Administration, R S Nag, the Deputy Commissioner; B B Pandey, the District Research Officer; Varshni, Head Master; P P Verma, V L W; N N Borah, music teacher and others also took active part.
As per records, the festival was celebrated from 24th to 27th August, 1967. The chanting of hymns (Ui Berabnam) started on the 2nd day, preparation of the alter (Yuging Menam/Ranam) on 2nd day, house to house chanting of hymns (Nyok Bernam) and Sacrificial ritual (Ui papoqnam ) on the 3rd day .
It is important to note that as per the original Joram Nyokum, the sacrificial items
of Nyokum were: two pigs –the big one to Ampir ui (the Goddess of prosperity) and
an uncastrated piglet to Potur Ui (for purification and protection); one goat to
Geda Ui (the mother earth), one dog to Sotung-
However, two mithuns, donated by Joram Baat and Joram Rika, were said to be slaughtered outside the main alter, primarily for the community feast.
During these days, games and sports and cultural items competitions were also conducted as a part of the festival. On the 4th day, a public meeting was held in which it was resolved to celebrate the festival every year regularly. After the meeting, prize distribution ceremony took place. Joram Baat, HGB gave away the prizes of the competitions. This was followed by community feast. It is recorded that food for 2000 persons was served systematically.
Since then the centralised celebration of Nyokum Yullo became a regular feature every year. However, the venue of the festival kept on shifting to all important places of the Nyishi belt, especially in the Subansiri region of the state. As per records (SOUVENIR, NYOKUM FESTIVAL, Published in 1987), during the first 20 years of the centralised celebration of the festival, the following places were the venues: Joram (1967and 1979), Yazalee (1968, 1971 and 1974), Doimukh (1969 and 1973), Sagalee (1970, 1983 and 1986), Kimin (1972), Palin (1975 and 1980), Naharlagun (1976 and 1984), Itanagar (1981), Leyporiang (1985) and Balijan (1987). Records also say that there has been similar centralised celebration of Nyokum at Seppa as early as 1972. Subsequently, Daporijo and Raga also became important celebration venues.
In addition to the above main centres, many branch centres came up, especially from 1978 in which year central celebration could not be organised due to the first ever assembly election in the union territory. Some of the important branch centres within the Nyishi region where regular celebrations took place are – Seijosa, Pakke Kessang, Bameng, Chayang Tajo, Sangram, Talo, Yachuli, Boasimla etc. Beyond the Nyishi area, the regular venues of the festival within the state are – Bhalukpong, Bomdila, Pasighat, Roing, Tezu, Miao, Changlang, Khunsa etc. Outside the state – Balipara in Assam, Shillong and Delhi. Reports of celebration are also received from Bangalore, Pune, Chennai, Kolkata, Guwahati etc where students do celebration at their own way. In the late 1980s it was estimated that the festival was celebrated at about 50 venues.
It is important to note that from Doimukh celebration in 1969, the month of celebration was changed from August to February. This was done keeping in view the hot and humid summer season with scarcity of food staffs and communication disruption to a pleasant dry early spring with plenty of post harvest food stocks and easier communication. In other words, the month of the festival was changed from post sowing to post harvest and pre sowing season. Moreover, lwmw polo the first month of the Nyishi lunar calendar coincides with February of Gregorian calendar. In a way, this is also a New Year celebration of the Nyishis. However, the original days of the month, that is, 24th, 25th, 26th, 27th, and 28thwere retained. This change did not affect the sanctity nor deviate from the original objective of the festival in any way. Rather it was more enabling than ever before and hence celebrated with more fervent and participation.
It is worthwhile to place on record the names of the persons who organised the Centralised celebration of the Nyokum Yullo as the Chairman and the General Secretary in the initial years at different places .They are : Joram Tako, Chukhu Talar*,Tomo Riba, S C Das*,Tana Khoda*, Jagir Singh, Chera Takam, Taw Mima, Taba Topu*, Teli Tarin, Tana Kara, Nguri Tem, Rai Hazung,Toko Tatami, Tei Tem, Mallo Tarin*, A K Bhattacharjee,Tai Nikam, Joram Lalin, Joram Begi*,Hage Bat, Taku Apik, S R Gupta, Michi Butang, Tako Nikio, Taba Lama, Teki Taba,Nabam Tachak, Nabam Rangbia, Tayom Mara, Talar Goying Taba and others. (* More than once)
The Central Nyokum Committee (CNC) was created during mid 1970s to oversee smooth
celebration of the festival at the main centre and to co-
In fact, Nyokum Yullo at Joram in 1967, was not merely the first centralised celebration
of the festival, but also considered as a game changer of Nyishi socio-
As per available records, (the author also witnessed as a child) during the late 1950s and early 1960s, the village girlsof Joram, used to display a folkdance with singing:
Rwkhambo pada ngo aai ngoja
Rwnyam bo yami ngo aai ngoja
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .
Ngake bo aan ge disi bo hoche
Ngake bo aan ge dulub bo dutupe.
This dance was performed on important occasions, including VIP visits from outside. The earlier writers named this dance as Nartam. The dancers would hold both their hands on the waist and flex the lower portion of the body rhythmically while moving forward or sideways. This action of flexing hip is called Narnam. Earlier alien writers have mistakenly called it as Nartam Dance of the Nyishi. Actually, this was the original or rudimentary format of the most popular Nyishi folk dance called Rikhampada dance today.
The Rikhampada dance was displayed in the 1967 Nyokum Yullo at Joram and it became an essential component of the Nyokum Yullo celebration ever since. The performance of the dance is no longer confined to the Nyokum Yullo celebration but also in all other important occasions representing the pride of the Nyishi identity. So much so that it represented the state in the Republic Day display, New Delhi as early as 1973 (2nd time in 2014).
The pioneer artists of Rikhampada dance were mostly from Joram .Some of their names are: Joram (Pil) Yakha , Joram (Likha) Yaza, Joram Yebi, Joram (Lisi)Sei, Joram Supyung , Joram Yamwng, Joram (Likha) Yeli, Joram (Likha ) Yaze, Joram (Tadar) Likha Yaram ,and others. Other prominent artists who were responsible for carrying way forward this dance were: Taba (Tadar) Yedir, Bini (Rutum) Yak, Taw (Nabam ) Mekha, Bengia (Kop) Mala, Kago Yakang, Taw (Taba) Chiji and others.
Since the first centralised celebration, the festival no longer remained as merely
propitiating the goddess of prosperity for the bumper harvest or eating and drinking,
but an excellent centre for competitions of music, dance and drama; literary and
games and sports events. Troupes and teams from different places of the Nyishi area
used to camp at the Central Nyokum Yullo venue for 3-
In the olden days, Nyishi dances and songs were mostly confined to: Buya sonam, Rokpi sonam, Ud benam, Bajam benam, Nyem khabnam and such other folk songs and dances. From the Joram Nyokum of 1967 a new era of Nyishi modern songs started. It is said that N N Borah, the music teacher of the Government High school, Ziro helped the students to compose and sing Nyishi modern songs during the festival. Tadar Tang, a student leader of the time and a prime mover of the festival, himself was a composer and singer of the Nyishi modern songs. That is why, most of the earliest Nyishi modern songs are on Nyokum. As for instance:
Kuju aajin eneju nyokum kata be
Kuju aajin eneju nyokum hapa be
Or
Kuju kuju kataju nyokum aane ne
Kuju kuju kataju yullo aabu ne
Henceforth, the transformation in the field of song and music became so rapid and
decisive that many Nyishi singers, composers, lyricists, actors and actresses came
up. The community earned the rare distinction of starring all characters of the first
ever feature film, Mera Dharam Meri Maa and the first audio album, Komchi Lela in
the state. The pioneer Nyishi singers were: Bengia Hemanta, Techi Mecha , Tasar Teshi,
Taw Gumsi, Tanium Haji, Nicham Sonam, Bengia Tabb, Nabam Bijnu, Taba Yal, Teli Dimin,
Chukhu Yayo and a host of others. The well-
By far, the most important trend that set out from the Joram Nyokum of 1967 and followed consistently throughout the last 50 years has been the urge for identity and unity of the Nyishi community as a distinct social group. This was revealed from day one of organising the festival at Joram in 1967. Initiative taken by educated youth and students of the community to organise the festival with a great deal of dedication and devotion was to establish their emotional connection and there by a common identity for themselves.
It is pertinent to know the reason as to why building self confidence in Nyishi,
by creating a sense of belongingness amongst them through organising a common festival
was required at that point of time. The Nyishi community was mostly a heterogeneous
tribe. In both Ahom and British history, it is mentioned that the tribe (Daflas)
were well known for their divided action. The Census of India enumerated them as
several tribes with different names like: Bangni, Tagin, Dafla, Hill-
When administration penetrated slowly into the region, the divisional head quarters of Kameng was established at Bomdila and the Subansiri Division at Ziro. As such, the Nyishis did not have much direct access to the benefits of administration in the initial years. Instead, they were subjected to exploitation by others, especially who were better placed and proximally near to the administration. As such, the confidence level of the community was very low.
For morale boosting and awakening this sleeping giant of the state, a common platform
was essential –a platform which could create a sense of belongingness amongst the
members of the community. There was no better platform than that of the Nyokum festival.
The festival depicted the Nyishi cultural heritage and identity. This helped build
self pride and self confidence of the community. The mass participation of people
and regular get together every year at the centralised celebration of the festival,
facilitated in creating a sense of belongingness and unity within the community.
The student leaders and intellectuals of the community availed the opportunity for
sharing their views on the pathetic conditions of the tribe. This paved the way for
formation of a number of the Nyishi community level organisations in the subsequent
years. Mention may be made of: the Nyishi Dokum in early 1970s, the All Nyishi Youth
Association (ANYA) in 1978, the All Nyishi Students Union (ANSU) in 1982, and the
Nyishi Elite Society (NES) in 1987.These organisations were responsible for carrying
out the unity movement of the community and constant deliberations on their social,
cultural and economic issues. Thereby, the Nyishi community has been transformed
from heterogeneous groups to a united community and from a ‘well known for divided
action tribe to a well known for united action tribe’. The community has arisen during
the last 50 years from the status of most backward and looked down upon to the forefront
of many socio-
Fifty years or half a century is not a short span of time. Any institution or organisation which exists for such a long time, must have its own inherent strength and a time tested one. Nyokum Yullo has not merely existed during the last 50 years but going from strength to strength and is flourishing. This is because of the fact that the Nyishis are the most upright and self esteemed people in this part of the world and they take pride in their rich cultural heritage. Nyokum Yullo truly depicts this cultural heritage and thereby represents the symbol of Nyishi unity and identity.
Moreover, the main objective of Nyokum Yullo is to worship the goddess, Nyokum Anne collectively, irrespective of caste or creed, high or low, for peace, prosperity and happiness to all mankind. Thus, this does not only meet the spiritual quest and the social aspirations of the community but also it is ever relevant and universally appealing.
However, this golden jubilee of the centralised celebration of the festival should also be availed as an opportunity to introspect the modus operandi of the festival. Of late, it has been observed that some sections of society object to the too much of animal sacrifice, particularly, the mithun sacrifice. Other sections have reservation on the rituals.
In this regard, it may be said that any social institution to be sustainable, must cope up with the fast changing world, especially with rapid globalisation and ever changing echo system. Nyokum Yullo as a social festival may also be affected with certain changes in the methods of celebration to keep pace with the time. However, such changes should be with sole objective to strengthen it, not to weaken it. In other words, changes may be done only when it is absolutely required, that too, on outer forms but not in the inner core. The core value of the festival needs to be preserved. Otherwise, in the name of change the very spirit of the festival may be destroyed. Perhaps, the golden path is to maintain a balance between changes and continuity.
(Dr Begi is Chairman, Chief Information Commissioner, Arunachal Pradesh State Information Commission)
Man injured seriously in elephant attack
[ Maksam Tayeng ]
PASIGHAT, Feb 9: A 56-
The man who was seriously injured was rushed to Bakin Pertin General Hospital, Pasighat last night. His condition is stated to be critical.
The incident occurred at around 10 AM while the man was going to his field in the vicinity of the village when the wild elephant came out from a nearby jungle. While the man tried to flee, the elephant chased and caught him. Luckily, he escaped from the jaws of death and fell into a nearby river, from where he managed to save himself. The elephant is reported to have damaged crops and food grains.
According to relatives of the victim and villagers, the rogue male elephant had already killed a few people in the past.
The DFO (Territory), Pasighat Division, Tabang Jamoh, along with his RFOs visited the victim at the hospital on Thursday and handed over a sum of Rs. 6000 as immediate relief. Newly joined DFO (Wildlife), D. Ering Wildlife Sanctuary, Rini Riba also visited the victim and advised his relatives not to kill the elephant in retaliation.
When contacted, Range Officer, Mebo RF, Obang Tayeng said that, he has already pressed Beat Officer, Seram Beat Office to inspect the place of occurrence and necessary paper formalities is already being initiated to compensate the victims and other affected people.
In states like Kerela and Karnataka, there is provision of instance compensation
of around Rs. 2.5 lakhs which is under the discretion of concerned DFO, but in our
state where man-
The man-
School girl rescued
WALONG, Feb 9: A young girl of Class 8 of Walong Government Middle School, Yomchu Meyor was rescued by Tokbe Meyor, a member of the School Management Committee.
Young Yomchu was caught mid river in the mighty Lohit River and was rescued after a grueling rescue effort that lasted for over four hours.
Personnel of the 9th Para troopers and 8th JAK and military officers also aided in the rescue operations.
According to reports, the girl was admitted at PHC Walong for treatment of injuries, which are of simple nature under Medical Officer of Karuna Trust working in the region.
Hawai CO R Mele, who monitored the rescue operation, informed that the girl has now been reunited with her family and is safe.
Meanwhile, Anjaw Deputy Commissioner M Riba called upon the government to confer a bravery award to Tokbe Meyor for his heroic deed.
Also, as a mark of recognition of his unflinching bravery in the face of danger to save a student, Deputy Commissioner Anjaw, announced the title of "Anjaw Veer" for Meyor, to be conferred on him in the upcoming Statehood Day celebrations, along with a citation and cash award.
The DC, while expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister's Secretariat, Director Disaster Management Y W Ringu, Commandant NDRF Arunachal Pradesh (Namsai and Doimukh units), Officers of Directorate of Civil Aviation, including Miranda Pertin, army authorities and IAF authorities for prompt response and planning of rescue helicopter, also thanked providence for the miraculous save. (DIPRO)
Authorities urged to make Likabali functional hqtrs
LIKABALI, Feb 9: In a meeting of various organizations, senior citizens, PRI members, GBs and youths of Likabali area, held recently under the chairmanship of Likabali Anchal Chairperson, Henken Dini, regarding establishment of a functional headquarters and permanent headquarters for Lower Siang district, the members unanimously decided to urge the authorities to make Likabali functional headquarters of the district on or before February 12 next.
The members also resolved that the permanent headquarters of Lower Siang district should also be decided by Lower Siang DC by constituting a search committee.
MLA Moyong calls for cordial Assam-
Correspondent
RUKSIN, Feb 9: Pasighat East MLA, Kaling Moyong has exhorted the people of Assam
and Arunachal Pradesh to maintain their age-
Attending the concluding programme of the 56th Bodo Sahitya Sabha that concluded at Simenchapori (Assam) on Tuesday, Moyong said that the people of Arunachal were working to develop a cordial relationship with their Assam counterparts.
He informed that the people of Siang valley have developed a closer relation with the Mising tribe living in North Assam, while they are working to develop the relationship with the other communities too.
Stating that the chief ministers of both neighbouring states are young and energetic leaders, the MLA urged the youths to cooperate with the government in achieving their tasks in improving the living standard of the people.
"Socio-
Among others, Mising Autonomous Council Chief, Dr Ronuj Pegu, Rajya Sabha MP Biswajit Doimary, Professor of Mimasaka University of Japan, Kajuyuki Kiriyu and leaders of All Assam Students' Union, and leaders of community organizations attended the concluding programme.
Earlier, Assam Chief Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal, who attended the Bodo Sahitya
Sabha programme thanked the people of Arunachal Pradesh for their active cooperation
in socio-
He exhorted the youths to follow their ancestors, who have made immense contributions for development of languages and cultures of the indigenous tribal communities.
Bage dedicates new suspension bridge
[ Karda Natam ]
DAPORIJO, Feb 9: A new suspension bridge at Nasi village was inaugurated by Dumporijo MLA Paknga Bage on Thursday over Subansiri River.
Funded under the SPA 2015-
Inaugurating the bridge, Bage appealed to the public to extend their cooperation
to implement government-
Highlighting various schemes undertaken by the government, the MLA asked every citizen to execute government scheme sincerely and honestly for the greater interest of the society and nation as whole.
Also present on the occasion were PRI leaders and heads of departments.
DC holds review meeting
ROING, Feb 9: A monthly coordination meeting was held on Thursday, under the chair of Lower Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner Deepak Shinde to review the progress of works made under various line departments.
Speaking during the meeting, the DC instructed all line departments for proper monitoring of all undergoing works and urged them to submit status reports. He also called upon the Power Department to obtain forest clearance for the projects undertaken by them at Bizari area and also enquired on the progress work on installation of high mass tower at various locations in Roing Township.
The DC asked the DDSE to properly monitor ongoing construction works of school auditorium and other civil works under the department. He also sought the project scope of various schemes undertaken by the Horticulture Department under BADP.
Further, DC Shinde directed DTO Roing to intensify check drive of vehicles at various locations in the district.
Various issues on community toilet, internal village roads, CRF status, solid waste management, progress work on township CC roads, blood bank and trauma center at the district hospital, and proper monitoring of construction works of Multipurpose Building at Dambuk, Ezengo were also discussed in the meeting.
The meeting was attended by all heads of departments of the district.
National seminar on border communities of Eastern Arunachal Pradesh
ITANAGAR, Feb 9: A two days national seminar on the topic 'Border Communities of Eastern Arunachal Pradesh: A Historical Perspective' is being organized by the Department of History, Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) at the university campus.
In her keynote address, eminent scholar Professor Shiela Bora highlighted the colonial policies and its aftermath, with special reference to the Singhphos of Eastern Arunachal, bordering Burma.
Bora observed that, "Despite the philosophy of tribal development, which the British Government professed, development came late to the Singpho territory and the area appears to have remained completely unaffected by progress till independence".
"Though as early as in 1837, the Singphos were the most largest race between Ava and Mogoung, the report of the deputy commissioner of Lakhimpur district in 1871 indicated that the Singpho population had decreased to only 3435, of whom 1120 were males, 1180 were females and 1135 were children. The census report of 1958 indicated an alarming trend by showing further decrease in the Singpho population to 574 only. The rapid decline of the Singphos can be ascribed to various factors, arising out of the British occupation of their territory. The disturbances caused in the equilibrium of their lifestyle and their environment in a rapid manner proved to be great danger even to the existence of tribe", she opined.
She also noted that there was negligible progress during British regime in the Singpho territory. Though exploration of coal and petroleum had been carried on at Margherita and Digboi respectively since the 1860's, no attempt was made to develop mining enterprises in the neighbouring Singpho territory. It is only very recently that Oil India and Coal India Limited are surveying vast areas in the Tirap districts, occupied by Singphos.
The aspirations of the Singphos located on India's historically evolved natural border of the east needs to be fulfilled through the establishments of a consistence democracy for all, she said.
Introducing the theme of the seminar, Professor Shyam Narayan Singh said that it
focused on present Arunachal Pradesh as the gateway for pre-
Vice Chancellor of RGU, Professor Tamo Mibang also spoke on the relevance of the history of border communities of East Arunachal Pradesh, while Professor Tana Showren, head of the Department of History, also spoke on the occasion.
The inaugural programme was attended by delegates from different universities and colleges, scholars and students of the university.
Pasighat tightens belt for third round of smart city race
PASIGHAT, Feb 9: Pasighat is gearing up with renewed vigour for the third round of Smart City race. In order to rectify and improve the deficiencies for the success in the third round of Smart City, the administration is holding meetings and discussions in regular interval.
Meanwhile, addressing a stakeholders' meeting on Smart City race at the Siang Hall, Deputy Commissioner Tamiyo Tatak advised the PMC to adopt better strategies for present and future development projects in consultation with Voyants Solutions Pvt Ltd, a global provider of professional, technical and management support services.
Tatak further directed the heads of offices to appoint nodal officers so that they could share information and update the Smart City Mission Officers on developmental issues of their respective departments.
Pasighat, the oldest city, has tremendous potential to expand, the DC said, adding that infrastructure like roads, railways, waterways and airways are being developed and would soon become important passageway for transportation and communication.
MEO (PMC) cum Smart City Officer, Ainstein Koyu while seeking citizens' participation stressed on team spirit and urged all to brace up for the upcoming challenges. "We need to work on the gaps identified by the Government of India to improve upon the proposals," stated Koyu and urged the denizens to take part in the discussion on mygov portal on the development issues.
Urban Planner of Voyant Solutios, Jay Krishna gave a vision plan through a power-
West Kameng DYC denounces demonetization
ITANAGAR, Feb 9: The West Kameng District Youth Congress (DYC) organized a public meeting against demonetization on Tuesday.
Addressing the gathering, former MLA cum APCC vice president and in-
Arunachal Pradesh Youth Congress (APYC) General Secretary Kalley Rijuju also opposed the demonetization decision, and said that the demonetization move was against the poor working class people of the country. Rijuju asked the Central Government to reveal how black money has been reduced and corruption rooted out after the demonetization move? He further said the Prime Minister should take responsibility for loss of lives and apologize to the people who suffered after the demonetization. He also exhorted the newly inducted DYC officer bearers to work sincerely for the party.
In his address, West Kameng District Congress Committee president Tsewang Norbu said that 'Congress Mukt Bharat' is not possible. Congress is the oldest political party and it is the only party which can take along with it the entire section of people, regardless of religion, gender and caste.
West Kameng District Youth Congress President Sangjo Siongju urged the youths to follow the ideology of Congress party and encouraged them to work for the betterment of the party. He also questioned the main motive of the BJP's demonetization move.
Among others, District Congress Sewa Dal Chairman Lobsang Chodak and former Anchal Samiti Chairperson Thongiang Nikhangju also spoke on the occasion.
Block Congress Committee President Nichang Jangju and other seniors party workers were also present in the meeting.
ALWS felicitates eminent personalities
SEPPA, Feb 9: Apart from felicitating eminent personalities, cultural and sports
competitions were organized with a three-
State level volleyball player Ali Liyak, first MBBS from the society Dr Paya Liyak, and one Kumar Liyak, BA student from NERIST were also felicitated on the occasion.
Among others, Hydropower Development Corporation of Arunachal Pradesh Ltd, Chairman
Tungri Effa, NES district unit Secretary In-
Training for nurses
NAHARLAGUN, Feb 9: One day state level workshop for developing social behavior change, communication strategy for staff nurses was conducted at training hall of the National Health Mission office on Thursday.
Terming communication as the most important aspect, Nodal Officer Training, Dr T Taku exhorted the participants to bring qualitative change in service delivery across the state.
Further, he added that behavioral change in an individual is very important for successful implementation of any programme.
Explaining the key strategies of SBCC, UNICEF consultant and resource person, Pravin
Kumar emphasized on the importance of mobilizing the community for appropriate behavior
change for success of health-
Consultant SBCC (UNICEF) and resource person Bijoay Dungdung also gave an insight into communication skills.
Land encroachment prohibited
ITANAGAR, Feb 9: The Capital Complex Circle Officer-
The order came following a complaint by the All Arunachal Pradesh Abotani Abo Taru Nibu (Priest) Welfare Association. The Association has in a release alleged that the said land has been encroached till date despite the Gauhati High Court's prohibitory order.
Death mourned
NAMSAI, Feb 9: The officers and staff of the Department of Education have deeply condoled the demise of former Principal of Government Higher Secondary School, Old Mohong, Namsai district, Marshal Megu, who died in a tragic accident at Kakopathar in Assam on February 5 last.
They further prayed to the Almighty for the eternal peace of the departed soul.
In a condolence message, state Secretary Education, Bidol Tayeng also recalled late Megu as a dedicated and sincere officer and termed his death as a great loss.
ACS seeks appointment of regular director
ITANAGAR, Feb 8: The Arunachal Civil Society (ACS) has written to the state Chief Secretary appealing for appointment of regular director in the Department of Higher and Technical Education.
The ACS claimed that the department has not followed the existing RR policy for the last four years and that present director has been appointed on officiating basis.
"Despite availability of having qualified and senior most principals within the government colleges of Arunachal Pradesh, the department is not following the RR policy while recruiting the director. The post of Director, Higher and Technical education is going to be vacant in the month of April 2017, due to retirement of the present incumbent on superannuation. We oppose granting of any kind of extension to director," the ACS added.
Emerging issues of transforming rural communities towards inclusive sanitation
[ Ajay Tripathy ]
Defecation appears like a taboo subject in conservative society. Like sex and menstruation,
many community residents still feel awkward to discuss about open-
However, several states in north, central and eastern India cannot produce necessary
impact that is required under SBM. During mid-
Basic sanitation is a rather simple issue which we are trying to make complex for
different professional and political compulsions. It should rather be treated like
a coin where in one side there are families who do not have access to sanitation
and on the other side we have people those who do not like to use the available facilities.
First side of the coin -
So, we shall try to make the local communities more accountable by focusing on bottom-
It may be useful in empowering the communities to implement some disincentive measures,
if the situations demand. Many villages still witness retired and serving government
staff members actively involved in open defecation. Beneficiaries of different welfare
programmes and even high-
No person should be deprived as far as access to toilet, latrine or any form of sanitation facility is concerned. More than that, no family member should be allowed to practice open defecation. Time would say when we can achieve these with maximum ownership of communities or families.
A simplified mobile application of SBM could be more useful which has very less users, approximately one lakh, at present. The improved application should have links of short videos in different languages targeting villagers. As we are rapidly progressing towards digital India the communication experts may depend upon the mobile applications to better reach the unreached to make it an important tool of Social and Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC).
There are scopes for involving the Indian Council of Medical Research as well as
Regional Medical Research Centres (RMRCs), which could create a win-
Action research and strategic dissemination of evidence by the RMRCs would have lasting impact on local communities than hearing any mega star's message through national media, which also has huge opportunity cost.
The SBCC experts must not miss the opportunity of involving different research institutions
proactively as transforming rural India is a major challenge for inclusive sanitation.
Let the catalysts bring the local communities and their non-
(The writer has worked at Maldivian islands and Odisha villages to improve sanitation both at family and community levels. He has also worked with Arunachal's health sector. Email: ajaytripathy@hotmail.com)
Yoga training camp
NAHARLAGUN, Feb 9: A 20-
The training camp, organized by Seva Bharati, in collaboration with Yoga Vidya Gurukul of Nasik, Maharashtra, has 34 students from different districts enrolled for the course and will provide diploma certificate in 'Yoga Education'.
In his inaugural address Dr Chai said that yoga is an ancient practice and one of the greatest gifts by India to the world, and is recognised today because of the initiative of visionary Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
As a doctor himself, he said that he acknowledges the benefits of yoga in building a healthy body and healthy mind.
Stressing on the importance and benefits of yoga in relieving oneself from today's demanding and challenging lifestyle, Dr Chai advised all participants to take advantage of the camp and properly learn the art of yoga and spread the knowledge and skills so that people of the state receive the benefits as well.
The programme was also attended by yoga guru and in-
KVK organizes training on cold water fish
ITANAGAR, Feb 9: The three days training programme on 'Cold Water Fish Culture: An Innovative Approach for Sustainable Development in Hill Area of Anjaw District' was held from February 6 to 8.
The programme, which saw the participation of around 25 farmers, was sponsored by NFDB, Hyderabad and conducted by KVK Anjaw as part of an initiative started by the KVK to promote commercial farming of cold water fishes in the district.
Senior Scientist and head of KVK Anjaw, Dr M Kanwat emphasized on the importance of fish farming and how farmers, rural youths and school dropout students can start the profitable venture and make a living. He also focused on how the KVK scientists help farmers.
Course Director Prasanta Mahanta highlighted the major areas covered during the three days programme, like 'Role of Fish in Human Nutrition', 'Fish Farming for Income Generation and Self Employment', 'Site Selection & Construction/Preparation of Ponds in Hill Area', mission, objectives, activities and different schemes of the NFDB.
Scientist from division of Agriculture Engineering, ICAR Umiam, KVK Scientists and state Fishery Department officials also spoke on the occasion.
During the valedictory session, Major Ravindra Kumar, Army Camp, Hayuliang distributed certificates to the participants after successful completion of the training programme.
Health Sub Centre inaugurated
WALONG, Feb 9: A new health sub-
Organized by the District Health Society, Anjaw, the event was co-
Visiting her birth place Sarti for the first time after being elected as MLA, Dasanglu requested everyone to work together wholeheartedly to achieve the dream of Anjaw as a model district. She assured that she would work diligently on her part to bring development to the people.
Lauding the steps taken up by Dr K Perme, the deputy commissioner exhorted the villagers to make the best use of the facility. "Enabling availability of basic medical facilities at the doorsteps of the people is the basis of good governance and Anjaw has just added another feather to its cap," DC Riba added.
Speaking on the Occasion, Dr Perme apprised the gathering that the health sub-
The facility will be manned by an ANM nurse and a multi-
Maintain true essence of traditional customs & culture: Taga
KAYING, Feb 9: Addressing a huge gathering on the occasion of Donggin festival at Kaying on February 2 last, Minister for Power, Industries, Textile & Handicraft, Tamiyo Taga has urged all to maintain the true essence of traditional customs and culture while celebrating local festivals.
Asking the people to cooperate with the government for development activities, he further informed that the Regional Manager SBI, Itanagar had assured him of establishing a new SBI branch for Kaying, which would be functional very soon.
The minister also announced that he is proposing an RWD division of Siang district
at Kaying, which is the oldest sub-
Siang DC, Rahul Singh also spoke on the occasion.
The festivities were also attended by Boleng EAC, Tayek Pado, along with all HoDs
of the district, President State BJP ST Morcha, Hinun Tachu, district unit BJP president,
Tabong Mibang, 32-
Med team sought to contain FMD
ZIRO, Feb 9: Claiming that the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Diseases (FMD) has resulted
in the death of a large number of mithuns and other cattle at Kebi, Depo, Chulyu,
Amgi, Takam Pasa and Ziro-
Copyright © 2008, The Arunachal Times Publications Pvt. Ltd., Siang House, Sector
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All rights reserved.
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Maintain certain decency
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a swipe at his predecessor Dr Manmohan Singh on Wednesday while replying to the motion of thanks on president’s address in the Rajya Sabha. Modi said only Dr Singh knows how to take “shower with a raincoat”. PM made the remark while referring to various corruption scandals during UPA era. Dr Singh’s image had remained intact while his colleagues were mired in corruption cases. The PM’s jibe riled Congress and they staged walk out from Rajya Sabha. Congress has demanded apology from PM and today conducted brief walk out in Lokh Sabha.
While Modi has every right to use all kind of analogy and words to target his political opponents but one expect some decency from the person holding highest office of Prime Minister. This is not for the first time that Modi has come under attack for his choice of words. Even during assembly election campaign, he has been accused of making below the belt swing at his political opponents. Several leaders of Congress party including leader of opposition in Lokh Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge has also been accused of using indecent words in the floor of parliament to target rivals. This is not good for the Indian democracy. All the parties including ruling and opposition should restrain themselves while attacking each other. They should maintain certain decency in public forum. People will expect Prime Minister to set an example in this regard as he is the leader of the country.
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Enhance wages
Dear Editor,
The State govt should enhance the wages of casuals ALCs, contingency and other contract
workers who work under AP govt from existing rate to 15000-
In every field, there is no relaxation for casual employees. Due to shortage of finances, their children can't get proper education and their hard work is going in vain.
Yours,
Liken Nyorak
Grievances of an unemployed youth
Dear Editor,
Through your esteem daily, I would like to convey my grievances regarding recent
publication of walk-
The department have given only 11 days for submission i.e from 20th Jan. 2017 to
31st Jan. 2017 which is very less for a vast state like Arunachal Pradesh. Some of
us could not apply within the stipulated time. So I would like to ask the concern
authority through this media-
Lastly, I write this as an aggrieved unemployed youth and appeal to the concern authority to take up the matter and to make Arunachal a better and greater place to live in.
Yours,
Aggrieved
unemployed youth
Patriotism and Satyarthi
Dear Editor,
A mere replica of the Nobel Peace prize and its citation, awarded to Kailash Satyarthi, have been stolen from his home. However, even if the original medal, kept in Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum, had met the same fate; there lied no reason to make a hue and cry over it.
What honour has India bestowed on this great selfless humanitarian and Nobel Laureate for peace? Even after he received the highest recognition in the world for his yeoman’s service towards the hapless vulnerable souls engaged in child as well as bonded labour, India does not regard him eligible enough to get Bharat Ratna! In contrast, professional singers and cricketers, who “serve” the nation in lieu of Himalayan fees, are lavishly served with the highest civilian award of the land!
Esplanade station within Kolkata Metro Railway network has designated a portion of its premises to pay tribute to the Indian Nobel Laureates. The ‘Nobel Wall’ features pictures of all the beneficiaries not only from Rabindranath Tagore to Amartya Sen; it also include those who are foreign citizens, but Indians through mere ancestry only! But again no spot for that unsung Kailash Satyarthi! India has simply excelled itself as far as displaying utmost indifference to Satyarthi is concerned.
However there lies no mystery behind such criminal negligence towards Satyarthi. India barbarically flaunts its "elitism" by merely placing a space ship on Mars orbit! It tries to display its “might” in international community by building gigantic statues at State’s expense, launching Bullet train projects and performing mass Yoga on Rajpath! But that epitome of divinity named Kailash Satyarthi's noble fight and work, which have earned the recognition of the world, have blatantly exposed India's dark scandals like child labour and slavery in front of the international community!
As "true nationalists", it remains our supreme duty to sweep all the woes of the
downtrodden lot and vulnerable children under the "patriotic" carpet of space missions,
bullet trains and statues. And Satyarthi has drastically failed in this litmus test
of “patriotism”! In such a pathetic, heartless and “nationalist” perspective; it
is absolutely natural that Kailash Satyarthi would be religiously offered a cold
shoulder in his own backyard. And the woes of the poor and helpless children of the
country will continue to get ruthlessly throttled behind the shadow of the glittering
malls, multiplexes and flyovers -
So not only do we remain indifferent towards Satyarthi, we are equally negligent
towards his mission of nipping the evils of child and bonded labour in the bud. In
such a pathetic and heartless perspective; it can be safely said that even if the
original Nobel medal had got lost, Indians hold no moral right to lament over it.
What is the value of that award whose significance itself does not hold minimum value
in this self-
Yours,
Kajal Chatterjee,
Kolkata
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