feb17 24

2017

February 24

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Kalikho Pul case withdrawn as lawyer questions SC on error of judgement

Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI, Feb 23: Dangwimsai Pul, widow of former Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Kalikho Pul, was reportedly forced to withdraw her letter to the Supreme Court seeking CBI or NIA probe into the allegations levelled in his purported suicide note against some former and serving persons, holding constitutional posts and politicians, after the letter was taken up in the judicial side instead of the administrative side.

The Supreme Court on Thursday allowed Dangwimsai Pul to withdraw her letter after the advocate appearing for Dangwimsai said that Chief Justice of India J S Khehar should not have ordered this issue to be taken up in the judicial side as there are serious allegations.

An assertive senior counsel Dushyant Dave, appearing for Dangwimsai said that the matter should be taken up in the judicial side as the dismissal of the case in the judicial side would render the former Chief Minister's widow remediless.

He also expressed reservations over the CJI setting up a two-judge bench to dispose of this "sensitive" matter, saying that in the matter of Calcutta (Kolkata) High Court Judge, Justice C S Karnan, the CJI had constituted a seven-judge bench.

However, in the case in hand, "which has far more serious implications", "the CJI went ahead with the two-judge bench which he should not have done himself as there were serious allegations and setting up of a bench should have been left to the third senior-most judge of the apex court", Dave said.

The senior advocate said he was refraining himself from saying many things in the open court and added that fresh developments have taken place and a former judge of the apex court has met him.

"We would like to know how this matter has been listed before this court. It has to be dealt with in administrative side," Dave told a two-judge bench of Justices Adarsh Kumar Goel and U U Lalit, while seeking recusal of the former from hearing the matter on the ground that he was a member in the bench at the Punjab and Haryana High Court when CJI Khehar was also a judge there.

Kiran Bedi advocates for women participation in all spheres

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Dr Kiran Bedi has said that, for a society to grow there should be space for women to participate in all spheres.

She was addressing a day-long symposium-cum-panel discussion on Women Empowerment and Child Rights, organized by the Department of Political Science, Rajiv Gandhi University, in collaboration with state government as part of the 31st Statehood Day celebrations at the university's auditorium on Wednesday last.

'Today, the society is facing two basic challenges- how do we make our men more responsible and honest, and how do we make a woman more courageous' she said while adding that these challenges could be addressed only when the two walk hand in hand.

'Women should take up the challenge of playing a pivotal role in helping the male counterparts to become more honest in their dealings and make each other more effective and powerful' said Dr Bedi

Vice-Chancellor of RGU, Professor Tamo Mibang opined that ethical and moral lessons should be taught to the students and academic curriculum on sex education and gender studies should be introduced as a mandated academic discipline right from school to university level, which will ultimately pave way for social change.

Coordinator of the symposium and the head of the Department of Political Science, Dr Nabam Nakha Hina and Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Dr David Gao also spoke on the occasion.

Altogether, 700 participants comprising of faculty members, research scholars, post graduate students and representatives of various CBOs and NGOs and various colleges and institutes, besides government officials, women activists and student union leaders took part in the symposium, wherein invited panelists Dr Alana Golmei, founder director of PANNNU Foundation, Delhi, Monika Arora, senior advocate Supreme Court of India, Nayana Shastrabude, Stri Shakti NGO Mumbai, Mithali Tingkhatra, Yalem Taga Burang and advocate Sunil Mow from Arunachal Pradesh acted as resource persons.

Rangoon marks the end of 4th Arunachal Film Festival

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, 23 Feb: The 4th Arunachal Film Festival came to an end on Thursday with the screening of the Bollywood film Rangoon before its official release, set for February 24.

The valedictory function also saw winners take away prizes for coming out on top with their creative work in the field of cinema.

In the most awaited category of short film competition, Nabam Katung and Sanju Dodum's "When No One is Looking", took away the top honours with its take on the theme of the competition, Clean Arunachal.

Highlighting the importance of recycling, the short film "Utility" by Karan Joram was awarded the second prize, while "Mann se Swachh" by Nending Duley came in at third place for its humorous take on keeping the environment clean.

The winning team was awarded with Rs 1 lakh cash, while the first and second runners-up received Rs 75,000 and Rs 50,000 respectively.

"The Third Inning" by Tsangpa Norbu was declared the best documentary film and awarded Rs 1 lakh, while "Aisa Yeh Jahan" by Biswajeet Bora was awarded the best feature film with cash prize of Rs 2 lakhs.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who also attended the valedictory function, lauded the filmmakers of the state for taking up issues that confront the state and using the medium of cinema to make a point.

He also lauded the efforts of the state Department of Information and Public Relations and the Film Federation of Arunachal for the success of the event and for selecting the theme of 'Clean Arunachal' for this year.

Congratulating the winners, Pema also assured to keep adequate funds in the upcoming budget to encourage filmmakers and artists.

With this, the curtains were also called on the Festival of Arunachal for 2017.

APCC questions govt’s silence on Tuki seat episode

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) questioned the state government on its silence following the controversy of former Chief Minister Nabam Tuki not receiving a seat at the Statehood Day celebration in IG Park.

“The APCC wants to know why the state government is still silent on the matter. It is really surprising that instead of an apology or clarification by the state government on such serious protocol lapse, the state BJP has come forward to rescue the state government", it lamented.

"With the press statement of the BJP, it is clearly revealed that the government functions in the state are actually organized by the BJP and not by the Government Administration", it pointed out, further adding that the BJP should take the responsibility for the ugly episode.

The APCC's reaction came after the BJP advised the party not to trivialize the issue of former Chief Minister Nabam Tuki not getting a seat at the Statehood Day celebration in IG Park into a political slugfest.

"APCC is not trivializing the issue. Instead, BJP Government in the state has politicized the celebration, which has never happened earlier", it added.

'Abby' wins Champion of the Champions title

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: A pug named 'Abby' was adjudged the 'Champion of the Champions' in the Itanagar Dog Show at Indira Gandhi Park here on Wednesday, held on the third day of the Statehood Day celebration.

Minam Tondrang of Niti Vihar is the proud owner of Abby.

Organised by the Department of Animal Husbandry Veterinary & Dairy Development, GoAP, and co-sponsored by Pedigree & Drools, the competition was held for three categories- large sized breeds, small sized breeds, and local dogs.

Two eminent pet practitioners from Guwahati- Dr Prodyut Sharma, and Dr Mrinal Das, along with Dr N D Minto, Joint Director (AHV&DD), Nirjuli, judged the show.

Winners of all the three categories walked away with attractive prizes, which were distributed by Veterinary, Animal Husbandry and Art and Culture minister Dr Mohesh Chai and Nampong MLA Laisam Simai.

M/s TK Engineering builds road under CSR

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: Setting an example under Corporate Social Responsibility programme, a rural agricultural road has been constructed with the assistance of M/s TK Engineering Consortium Limited in Rottung village under Siang District.

This is for the first time that such community development work has been taken up by a local private firm in Arunachal Pradesh in its project site.

The road connects the prime Damuk agricultural area with Rottung village. The three-kilometre long non-pitched road was completed in a record two month's time. The road is expected to help farmers of Damuk area to grow more large cardamom, ginger, turmeric and other spices as transportation will become convenient with the arrival of the road.

As mark of gratitude, the road has been dedicated as T K Road by the villagers of Rottung Village.

Engineer Ratu Techi, Adviser M/s T K Engineering Consortium Private Limited inaugurated the rural agriculture road, in presence of several village elders, gaon burahs and local Panchayat members.

Speaking on the occasion, Techi shared that this was the first time that a road has been named after T K Engineering and he was overwhelmed by the gesture of Rottung village. He also announced some financial support for the farmers and villagers from the company's side, and further agreed to support the villagers in every possible way in the future as well.

In his address, BJP state Media Secretary Nalong Mize, also mentor and adviser of the Farmers Group, hailed the noble gesture of T K Engineering as a trendsetter in Corporate Social Responsibility by a local private firm in the state.

He congratulated T K Engineering for setting a fine example for private firms to follow in community development activities in their project sites in the state.

Debia Muj, youth leader and Chairman of Tara Clan Youth Wing, shared that all the Tani group of people are from the same source and thus very similar in ethos and values. It is only natural that there should be a strong sense of oneness and brotherhood among us, he added.

Tajir Siram, senior leader of the Farmers Group and person behind the partnership of M/s T K Engineering and Rottung village explained to the gathering that a rock has been deliberately made as sign board for T K Road so that people continue to remember the contribution of the company in days to come.

He also thanked Engineer Techi and all the other executives of T K Engineering for their support to Rottung Village.

Head Gaon Burah of Rottung Village, Taku Siram and Ansal Samiti Member Tageng Taki also spoke on the occasion.

Ering calls for cordial relation with Assam

Correspondent

RUKSIN, Feb 23: MP East Ninong Ering has called upon the people residing in the inter-state boundary of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam to maintain peaceful co-existence.

Attending a sports event at Oyan village in East Siang district of Arunachal, bordering Assam on Wednesday, MP Ering said that the peaceful environment along the boundary should not be derailed at any cost.

He urged the community leaders of both the states not to give communal colour to any dispute or confrontation that may occur along the boundary areas.

Responding to a memorandum submitted by Oyan villagers, the MP assured to grant a fund worth Rs 10 lakhs for development of 'Oyan village link road' under his Local Area Development Fund in the next fiscal year.

The 1-km rural road, which was developed under the initiative of former Rajya Sabha MP, Nyodek Yonggam during 1995 has been lying unrepaired for the last two decades.

Power supply to West and East Kameng disrupted

SEPPA, Feb 23: There has been an interruption in power supply to East Kameng and West Kameng districts after the conductors spanning about 2 km in length of Khuppi-Seppa transmission lines suffered major damages due to heavy storm on Wednesday last.

The area near Ramda Camp of West Kameng district, where lines have sustained major damages is located in a deep gorge, covered with dense forest. It is further reported that the complete restoration work may take at least a week's time.

Meanwhile, as an interim solution, the District Administration is exploring an alternative to provide power supply to the district through mini hydel power stations and other sources.

Society opposes proposed interview

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: The Education and Cultural Development Society (ECDS) has raised objection to the proposed interview/ viva voice test of departmental candidates of Geology and Mining Department for selection of APSC (EG) through lateral entry 2017. It alleged that the officers listed for interview belong to a particular community.

All genuine officers should get a chance for the interview, the Society said and urged the government to cancel the proposed interview and re-conduct it giving equal opportunity to the officers from all communities. "Selection of candidates on pick and choose basis will create division among people of the state", the Society added.

NSCN cadre arrested

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: Pansai Pansa, a Self Styled Private of NSCN (K) was apprehended by Khonsa Battalion under the aegis of Dao division.

A report informed that the cadre was trying to extort the villagers at Wakka when he was apprehended. A pistol and live ammunition were recovered from him.

Yingkiong SBI shut

YINGKIONG, Feb 23: State Bank of India, Yingkiong branch has been shut down since February 22 last, creating untold misery for the people of the area.

The Branch Manager of the bank has put up a notice in the gate of the bank citing power failure as the reason for closure.

The notice further adds that transaction will resume only after engineer from Itanagar arrives at Yingkiong. (DIPRO)

Organisations temporarily suspend strikes

AALO, Feb 23: The Memo Ao Youth Association and Pushi Bango Welfare Society have temporarily suspended their series of democratic movements to enable the district administration to liaise with the government and concessionaire based on the decision taken by the MoRTH on February 7 last to expedite construction of Potin to Pangin Trans-Arunachal Highway.

AE Highway, Gemar Padu has been given specific direction by the West Siang district administration to monitor and ensure mobilization of T&P by the concessionaire, supervise immediate repair of road from Aalo to Bam to make it traffic worthy and ensure new short cut road alignment at Darka to facilitate smooth flow of traffic.

With Bam to Aalo road lying in a pathetic condition, commuters with vehicles prefer to take narrow jungle road from Nyorak-Nikte Road to avoid huge potholes and big cracks all along the Aalo-Bam road. The coming monsoon season is likely to bring more miseries to the commuters as all non-negotiable potholes will be filled with water to bring more traffic woes to the commuters who are compelled to travel through that road. The Nyorak-Nikte road too is likely to reel under mud in the coming monsoon. (DIPRO)

ASSATA seeks disclosure of Secy Education report

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: The Central Executive Committee All Arunachal Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Teachers' Association (CEC ASSATA) sought that the Education Minister disclose the report of Education Secretary Bidol Tayeng at the earliest.

The AASSATA stated that after launching state wide pen down strike on 26 October, 2016, the consensus between teaching fraternities, including the AASSATA, ATA and ARMSATA and the state government represented by Deputy SPD SSA Raj Mission Likha Sampoo agreed to look into the matters by constituting a three-member committee.

The teaching fraternity added that the report was supposed to be submitted before the expiry of the three months.

Expressing concern that report of the committee is yet to be disclosed, the AASSATA demanded early disclosure of the report, failing which they threatened to resume state wide pen/ tool down strike.

DRDA strike enters 4th day

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: Pen and tool down strike by All India DRDA Staff Welfare Association, state unit entered its fourth day on Thursday.

Reports of strike were received from DRDA Lohit and Yingkiong.

They have been demanding for their immediate absorption in line departments and regular disbursement of DRDA staff salary through Treasury bill. (DIPRO)

ITW demands jobs

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: The Itanagar Traffic Warden (ITW) has requested the Chief Minister to absorb the in-service Traffic Wardens permanently instead of advertising recent Cabinet approved 56 traffic police posts.

The ITW has been appointed by the DIGP (Traffic Cell) and Chief Estate Officer Cum Additional District Magistrate in 2011 and underwent proper training at PTC Banderdewa, it added.

The ITW further stated that since inception, the wardens are working efficiently in traffic management.

"Absorption of 56 posts to in-service wardens would mitigate the regularization issue", the ITW stated, while requesting the government to look into the matter.

DK Memorial Awards conferred to cooperative societies

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: The Dorjee Khandu Memorial Best Co-operative Society Award-2017 was conferred to M/s Ziro Poultry Cooperative Farmers Society Ltd, Ziro , while the Dorjee Khandu Memorial Best Cooperator Award-2017 was given to Chairman of Arunachal Pradesh State Cooperative Union, Bengia Hemanta for their outstanding contributions in the field of Cooperative movement in the state.

The award consists of a citation, memento and cash prize of Rs 51000 each in the honour of former Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu, for his enormous contributions for strengthening of Arunachal Pradesh State Cooperative Apex Bank Ltd.

The awards were given away by Itanagar DC S K Singh on the occasion of the 31st Statehood Day celebration at IG Park Itanagar on February 22 last.

The Apex Bank also installed an exhibition stall during the Statehood Day celebration, displaying its various digital services like SIMsePAY, RuPay Debit Cards, RuPay KCC, Micro-ATM and Satellite Branch Module for unbanked areas for the awareness of the common public, informed Apex Bank MD Tsering Thongdok.

CWC, APWWS conducts skit plays, marriage registration prog

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: Child Welfare Committee, Capital Complex in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh Women's Welfare Society, supported by the Capital Complex District Administration organised a skit on child labour and impact of broken families on children.

The skit was executed by Bosco Youth Centre of Don Bosco College, Jullang under the supervision of Don Bosco College faculties Telesphore Topno and Franchis.

The skit was held at different places in Itanagar, Naharlagun and Nirjuli, where large number of people turned up.

Under the initiative of Itanagar-Capital Complex Deputy Commissioner, Sandeep Kumar Singh, a three-day marriage registration programme was also organised by the Child Welfare Committee, Capital Complex, Arunachal Pradesh Women's Welfare Society, Women's helpline and One Stop Centre at IG Park on the occasion of Statehood Day.

The Arunachal Pradesh Legal Services Authority provided free legal aid and counselling to the public during the three day event. Free marriage registration forms were provided and advocates were there to guide the people in filling up the forms. Looking at positive response from the public, the two days mass registration programme was extended to one more day, informed APWWS General Secretary Kani Nada Maling.

Advocates also explained to the public about importance of marriage registration and procedure to be followed under the provision of Special Marriage Act, 1954.

During the festival, Child Welfare Committee and Child line also organised legal awareness on child-related issues and a documentary was screened on child labour, free and compulsory education for children under 14 years and corporal punishment at school and child abuse.

Adventure sports at Festival of Arunachal

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: As part of the 31st Statehood Day celebrations and Festival of Arunachal, the Directorate of Youth Affairs organised adventure sports and indigenous games, including bungee jumping, hot air ballooning, zip line, human slingshot and bouldering from February 20 to 23.

In bungee jumping, 60 adventurous athletes turned up, 25 of which were women. Competition on various indigenous games like archery, bamboo walking, stick wrestling and pole climbing were also conducted.

Free modified loin loom with yarn distributed

ROING, Feb 23: Free modified loin loom along with yarn and accessories were distributed to 120 beneficiaries under the Chief Minister Indigenous Textile Promotion Scheme on Thursday at the office premise of Assistant Director Textile & Handloom.

On the occasion, Lower Dibang Valley DC Deepak Shinde interacted with the weavers and discussed various issues related to the handloom industry. He urged the weavers to develop their skills in this sector and assured to provide administrative assistance as and when required.

ADC Chesta Yadav urged the weavers to come up with innovative products that would attract tourists visiting the district.

The programme was also attended by SDO Hunli J Umpo and DD ICDS, among others. (DIPRO)

Student leader passes away

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: A prominent student leader of Sagalee area, Chera Naga passed away on Thursday morning in a city hospital after a brief illness.

Born in the year 1980 at Leporiang village, late Naga was convenor of All Papum Pare District Students Union from 2013 to 2017 and General Secretary of All Sagalee Students' Union from 2009 to 2012.

He left behind his wife, two daughters and two sons.

Meanwhile, the All Papum Pare District Students' Union (APPDSU) and the All Kra Daadi District Students' Union (AKDDSU) have condoled the sudden demise of Naga. The members of APPDSU, led by its President Nabam Tado also visited family member of late Naga and offered condolences.

Kaso inspects proposed road site in Abotani area

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: Local MLA cum Parliamentary Secretary, Techi Kaso inspected the proposed link road in Abotani area on Thursday.

The proposed road will provide connectivity between E Sector and F Sector via Abo-Tani Colony. It is also expected that the road will also ease traffic jam as a bypass during peak hours.

Interacting with the few land donors, the team gave emphasis on the need of road construction, where the parliamentary secretary also directed the PWD officers to submit DPR for approval so that work starts at the earliest for completion by this year.

Hegio Aruni, who is also the former IMC chief councilor, informed that local people have contributed land free cost for construction of approach road. The generous gesture of the people is really appreciable for development of their area.

Kaso was also accompanied by PWD Capital Division-A EE Taniya Soki, AE Tadar Bhupen, and other government officials.

East Siang DC lambasts mobile service providers

PASIGHAT, Feb 23: East Siang Deputy Commissioner Tamiyo Tatak has lambasted the mobile service providers for the extremely poor mobile service in the district.

In a consultative meeting with BSNL, Airtel, Jio, Aircel and other service providers in his office chamber here today, the DC said the service providers fail to meet the expectation of the customers.

The mobile companies turned a blind eye towards the problems such as poor signal and frequent call drops, the DC said. He directed representatives of the service providers to take help of experts and warned them of strict action in case of failure to improve the mobile service at the earliest.

The DC also took stock of ongoing construction of Pasighat-Pangin road and has urged Puna Hinda Constructions to deploy adequate men and machineries to expedite the project and early completion.

Further, representatives of Puna Hinda informed that formation cutting of 28 KM stretch from Raneghat is completed. Out of 134 culverts, 110 were completed and all 14 bridges are in progress. DIPRO

GB and priest Nyakar Koyu passes away

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: Gaon Burah of Old Seren, East Siang and priest Nyakar Koyu passed away at his residence on February 19.

Born on 1930, Koyu was a gifted priest, who knew the art of healing by traditional rituals.

Mourning the death of late Koyu, Nari Koyu MLA Kento Rina said that Koyu's contribution as a GB in his village as well his able assistance to the administration and his role as a priest, who reached out to many in need will be remembered for long.

Late Koyu left behind his wife Ike Koyu and children.

GSU urges GoAP to fulfill its assurance

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: The Galo Students' Union (GSU) has in a release on Thursday, strongly condemned the state government's alleged apathy towards taking up the issue of early functioning of Lower Siang district and creation of Leppa Rada district in the upcoming Cabinet meeting.

The Union said that the Chief Minister had personally assured all the Galo legislators, including the GWS, GSU and other Galo frontal organizations on December 16 last that Lower Siang district would be made functional and Leppa Rada district, comprising 29th Basar AC would be taken up in the upcoming Cabinet meeting, and will be given administrative approval.

However, till date, Cabinet meetings have been held twice but there was no initiative by the state government on the two assurances, the union claimed and strongly demanded that the state government fulfill the assurances in the budget session.

Further, it threatened to resort to mass democratic movement in case its demands are not met within the end of March this year.

Declare result: AAPACS

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: The All Arunachal Pradesh Anti-Corruption Sena (AAPACS) has demanded immediate declaration of SSA teachers' walk-in interview results, held on February 6 to 8 last.

In its representation to the state project director, SSA Rajya Sabha, it said that delay in declaring of the result will lead to chances of its manipulation, which will deprive good teachers.

AAPNRCA hopes Pul's allegations will be verified

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: Appreciating the state Cabinet for its decision to hand over Mere Vichaar notes to the Ministry of Home Affairs for investigation, the All Arunachal Pradesh Non Registered Contractors' Association (AAPNRCA) hoped that with the intervention of the ministry, the truth will come out and that the authenticity of late Chief Minister Kalikho Pul's allegations would be verified.

In its release, the AAPNRCA raised questions on how Pul gathered such large amounts of money to pay bribes to those he mentioned in the notes.

"Even his declaration through affidavit in 2014 election says that he had assests over Rs 4 crores, but the money he gave to individuals as per his diary comes at a few hundred crores", it said.

"We demand that the state government and the Ministry of Home Affairs, GoI to also investigate on this matter as the laid down law says that the bribe taker and the bribe giver are equal in the eyes of the law and liable for equal punishment", the release further added.

Awareness camp conducted

PALIN, Feb 23: An awareness camp was conducted by Arunachal One Stop Centre (OSC) at Nyokom Hall Palin recently.

During the camp, One Stop Centre, Counselor Binny Yachu explained about the various services provided by the OSC, such as the legal assistance, shelter home, etc. The awareness camp saw participation of people from various sections of the society, including students, officers and general public.

AKDSU President, Gora Rikam, Palin CDPO, Palin Bazar Welfare Society Vice Chairman Takam Yakia were amongst those present on the occasion.

DFP conducts special outreach prog

ZIRO, Feb 23: A special outreach campaign on "RMNCH+A" and "Mission Indradhanush" was organized by DFP Ziro, in collaboration with Bomdila DFP unit at Saint Claret Mission School, Boasimla, Kamporijo block in Lower Subansiri district on Wednesday.

Earlier, a mass awareness rally was conducted which was participated by students and teachers of Saint Claret Mission School, Boasimla.

In his key note address DFP director of Arunachal Region, Dr H R Keshavamurthy, while highlighting the aims and objective of the Special awareness programme, requested the gathering to abstain from discriminating between the boy and girl child.

Speaking as resource person, DFWO Dr D Likar disseminated basic information about mother and child health and Mission Indradhanush and the government's initiative to minimize infant mortality rate in the country. He also requested religious leaders and PRI members to spread the message of "proper immunization" to children.

District Extension Educator, Mikar Basar spoke on the behavioural changes during adolescence period and various IEC activities. He advised parents to keep a close watch on activities of their children in the modern IT age and further requested the student community to abstain from use of drugs and other tobacco products.

The main highlights of the day were photo exhibition, oral communication, film show, theme-based quiz competition and rural games and sport competition. The winners were also awarded with attractive prizes.

Among others, Father Thomas, Principal of Saint Claret Mission School, Boasimla also attended the programme.

Taj Yama adjudged Miss Nyokum 2017

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: Taj Yama from Yachuli, Lower Subansiri district has been adjudged winner of the Golden Jubilee Miss Nyokum 2017, while Pochu Nachu and Likha Cherie also from Lower Subansiri were declared first and second runners-up respectively in a function held at Joram on Wednesday last.

Yama was awarded a cash prize of Rs 50,000 and a scooter, while both the first and second runners-up walked away with a cash prize of Rs 25,000 each, besides a laptop and an android phone respectively.

Meanwhile, the winners of subtitles like; Miss Costume (Meena Sorang), Miss Beautiful Hair (Mangam Sora), Miss Beautiful Smile (Miss Likha Sila), Miss Personality (Joram Pera) and Miss Catwalk (Tai Sunita) also received cash prizes of Rs 10,000 along with a memento each.

The awards and cash prizes were sponsored by Joram Anu, Managing Director, Hotel Dawnland, Itanagar, Toko Onuj, MD Hydropower Development Corporation Ltd, Arunachal Pradesh and Toko Yaram, MD Hotel Toya, Naharlagun.

East Siang DRDA staff submits memo to govt

[ Maksam Tayeng ]

PASIGHAT, Feb 23: Joining the ongoing five days pen down and tool down strike being called by All India DRDA Staff Welfare Association State Unit from February 21, the DRDA employees of East Siang district have submitted a four-point memorandum to the Director of Rural Development.

According to the president of All India DRDA Staff Welfare Association East Siang unit, Tamar Baki, the staff members have not received their salaries for the last 4-5 months.

The agitating DRDA employees here have appealed the concerned authorities to look into the demands which include release of salary funds, equal payment for staffs, absorption in the line department and unequal salary at par with other state government employees. If their genuine demands are not met, the second phase of strike will be launched from March 6 to 18, informed the agitating staff.

It is to add here that frequent pen and tool down strike of the DRDA staff has badly affected the common people. Hence, government needs to come out with a clear policy to solve it permanently by absorbing them in line department.

The copies of the memorandum have also been submitted to the Deputy Commissioner, Pasighat, Zila Parishad Chairperson and Project Director, East Siang for consideration.

Progress of 4th phase Mission Suraksha and Mission Indradhanush reviewed

TEZU, Feb 23: A District Health Society (DHS) meeting on Mission Suraksha and Mission Indradhanush phase 4 (round 2) launched by the district administration and health department respectively was conducted in the DC's conference hall on Wednesday.

Presiding over the meeting, DC Danish Ashraf took stock of the ongoing Rashtriya Kishor Swastha Karyakram, Rashtriya Bal Swastha Karyakram and Intensive Pulse Polio Immunization programme

The DC directed the concerned medical officials to rigorously pursue any left out immunization case, and urged them to include even the children of laborers and floating people who are in the category of most vulnerable groups.

Ashraf also directed the DDSE to ensure complete adherence to deworming programme in all schools. Assuring every possible help in conducting door-to-door immunization programmes, he put emphasis on hundred percent success of Mission Suraksha on priority basis.

Earlier, DMO S Chai Pul shared about the various issues plaguing the department in terms of financial, infrastructural, manpower as well as logistic support.

DRCHO S Nayil gave an extensive report on fund utilization and NHM programme for 2016-17. He informed that inadequate supply of vaccines from the main supplier at Naharlagun was causing them insurmountable problems. He further elucidated on the immunization programme launched by district administration (under the aegis of Mission Suraksha) and Health Department during phase 4 round two of Mission Indradhanush. There were still many parents who were reluctant to get their wards vaccinated, Nayil disclosed.

Terming this uninformed reluctance as a dangerous trend, Nodal Officer for Mission Suraksha and CO Une Pertin said that all such cases must be properly dealt with. She further presented a report on numbers of unimmunized children from all circles of Lohit district. Numerous children were still unimmunized for various factors ranging from carelessness of parents, loss of immunization cards, fear of vaccination to lack of awareness and logistic support, Pertin said, adding that these factors must be patiently dealt with to remove misconception from people's minds.

The meeting was followed by interaction session where various issue related to immunization programmes were discussed and feedback received.

Among others, MS A Wailong, DDSE Mana Linggi, Medical Officers and other departmental staff attended the meeting. (DIPRO)

NERCORMP conducts inter-school painting competition

KHONSA, Feb 23: Khonsa EAC Techu Aran and DDSE Pubi Lombi gave away prizes to the winners of various schools of the district, who participated in an inter-school painting competition with the theme 'Conservation of Nature'.

Conducted by Tirap-Longding based NERCORMP at Don Bosco Youth Centre on Thursday, participating schools included Assam Rifles Middle School, Christ the King School and Lowangdong Public School, Pansumthong, besides Government Higher Secondary School, Government Secondary School, Thinsa, Tirap Valley School and KGVB School, Barap,

Addressing the gathering EAC Aran urged the students to motivate their parents and the villagers to plant more trees in their surroundings, adding that deforestation must be discouraged in order to avoid ecological imbalance.

Tirap and Longding NERCORMP Project Manager, Lily Rose Jajo and Accounts Officer Ruhi Kumar were also present on the occasion.

Pasighat to host 'Jan Pratha Utsav', Central Ali Aye Ligang

Correspondent

RUKSIN, Feb 23: The Sangeet Natak Academy (SNA), New Delhi, under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with Karpung Karduk Academy of Arunachal is all set to conduct its maiden cultural event- 'Jan Pratha Utsav of North East' at Pasighat town from February 24 next.

Artist Delong Padung, who is the founder of Karpung Karduk Academy and coordinator of SNA for North East, informed that the festival is an effort of the ministry to showcase folk culture with living traditions of the ethnic tribal people living in North-eastern states.

More than 300 artistes and 20 cultural troupes from all over the NE states, including the host state is expected to participate in the three-day event, organizers informed.

On the other hand, Pasighat will also host Central Ali Aye Ligang at Giidi Notko on February 25 and 26 next. It is being organized by the Adi Mising Baane Kebang (AMBK), a joint committee of both Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.

Sport meet- cum- literary competition

SEPPA, Feb 23: Youths from Jeju Dada, Lai Moya, Tassomora Donigaon, Serewa, Nerewa, Kakukao, Pabua and Sebibo area took part in a Sports Meet-cum- Literary Competition, which concluded at Sebibo ME School on Saturday last.

Organized by the Pacha Area Youth Welfare Association, the programme was also attended by Local MLA-cum-Parliamentary Secretary Tax & Excise, Tapuk Taku and former ZPM, Boru Sangyu.

In the football competition, Lai Valley FC was declared as winner, while Tassomora FC was adjudged as runners-up. In volley ball competition, Donigaon Village was declared the winner and Lai Valley was the runner-up team.

Apart from sport activities, literary activities like extempore speech and essay competition were also conducted on the occasion.

Border management secretary visits ITBP HQ

ITANAGAR, Feb 23: Border Management Secretary of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, Sanjeevni Kutty visited the ITBPF North-Eastern Frontier Headquarter, (NE FTR HQ) here and its under command units and took stock of works being done by the various agencies for the development of border areas under Central Government sponsored programme.

On the occasion, she was apprised of various challenges and development aspects in border areas, and also met the ITBP Jawans engaged in boarder guard duties.

NE FTR HQ Inspector General, Manoj Singh Rawat explained the difficulties and challenges being faced by the force personnel, which she assured to resolve.

Kutty also visited various formations of ITBP, including Sector Headquarter Dibrugarh, 10th Bn, Kimin, 31st Bn, Yupia.

Among others, Deputy Inspector General Mrityunjay Kumar and Deputy Inspector General/Engineer B S Sisodia were also present in the programme.

---- Editorial ----

Hooliganism in disguise of nationalism

The clashes between students related to Left-affiliated AISA and BJP-backed ABVP at Ramjas College, Delhi on Wednesday raises concern over freedom of speech and expression under the present regime. ABVP member allegedly created ruckus, damaged college properties and beat up organizers over a decision to invite JNU students, Umar Khalid, who is facing sedition charges, and Shehla Rashid to address a seminar in the Ramjas College. Delhi police who was present at the scene allegedly sided with ABVP member.

This is a sad incident and exposes the dictatorial attitude of the ruling regime. Since NDA government came to power at centre, they have been targeting universities and attacking those students who do not bow to their ideology. Clashes have been witnessed between ABVP and other student groups in several universities. The BJP is trying to impose its saffron ideology in the universities which is being resisted by left and Congress backed student groups. The ideological battle should be fought through debate and discussion not by using violent method. This is not the first time ABVP has disrupted lectures, seminars and screening of films. On several occasions they have been found using violence as tool to silence the opposition voice. Shockingly BJP and other member of Sangh Parivar like RSS continue to maintain stoic silence over activities of ABVP. This is wrong and is setting a wrong trend. BJP and ABVP should understand that India is a democratic country and everyone has right to air their views/opinions without fear. BJP should stop ABVP from indulging in hooliganism in the name of nationalism.

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---- Readers Forum ----

Similar syllabus

Dear Editor,

At the outset, let me thank Arunachal Times and its team for giving priority to unemployment related issue in spite of all the political and alluring news doing the rounds.

My piece is with regard to a letter titled "Accept IGNOU diploma" where one candidate has raised his/her doubts about rejection of DTS IGNOU students for the TIO post.

I would like to substantiate his point by informing APPSC that the entire syllabus of TIO is taken from tourism studies paper-3(TS-3) of Diploma of Tourism Studies (DTS) programme of IGNOU. In fact, it is ditto. There is no deviation of even a single word. Moreover, coaching institutes in Itanagar are teaching from the IGNOU book(TS-3) to the TIO aspirants. And many TIO aspirants are collecting only IGNOU books(TS-3) for the TIO preparation.

If the syllabus of DTS IGNOU and TIO is same, how can our candidatures shall be rejected? In my personal opinion, the rejection of DTS IGNOU candidates is a rumour. However, if there is an iota of truth in the rejection news, I request the prudent Commission to go through the syllabus of TS-3 book of IGNOU and that of TIO and accordingly make the judgment.

Since the syllabus of TIO and DTS IGNOU is same, I am optimistic that the commission's decisions will be in our favour. However, legal provision is always open for us if the decision is other way round.

Yours,

An aspirant

National Science Day

Dear Editor,

India will celebrate the National Science Day on February 28th. In a country plagued with superstitions, open defecation, unacceptable political interferences into public life, corruption, social injustice, gender discrimination and family violence; the importance of dissemination of scientific thoughts and awareness is monumental. Being the second largest populous country in the world root of scientific consciousness among the Indian communities will mean a significant around the entire planet. It is therefore important for us to salute several national and international agencies, NGOs, devoted members and enthusiastic volunteers in their sincere efforts and hard earned attempts in promoting science and scientific awareness among the common people. No praise is enough for all these agencies and individuals associated with the movement for promoting scientific awareness among students and countless local communities and ordinary citizens of India successfully for the past six decades in spite of serious obstacles and impending challenges. This is indeed a monumental achievement!

Yours,

Saikat Kumar Basu,

Canada

Do not bank upon the glory of others

Dear Editor,

What should be the goal of any self-respecting individual, state or country? To become the Sun or the Moon? Without discounting the calm and soothing factor of the moonlight, it also remains the fact that it is not original. Rather it a mere reflection of sunlight only! Yes, while the moon's presence or identity is dependent upon the Sun, the latter shines through the world with its own merit and credential.

In the same vein, every honorable person or society will wish to assert himself/herself/itself through their own steam, not by banking upon the glory of others.

This is the very reason why I have appreciated the letter of Mr. Taki Gumsar Tamin very much("Partial treatment", February 22). Why would a cultural and scenic treasure like Arunachal Pradesh depend upon alien Bollywood stars to make its right place in the map of India or world? Why would the state spend its wealth on sponsoring alien cultures instead of utilising it to promote its own talent? Also it needs to be always kept in mind that the world salutes them who exhibit self-respect and holds nothing but pity and contempt for those who try to establish themselves by riding piggyback on others.

As an earnest admirer and well-wisher of Arunachal Pradesh, I pray that my favourite state does not follow the spineless path of my mother state Bengal which has accorded the post of "Brand Ambassador" to a certain alien matinee star of Bollywood by ignoring stalwarts like Amartya Sen, Soumitra Chatterjee or Sourav Ganguly (to name a few) in its midst and desire to "promote" its capital to "London" instead of trying to establish Kolkata in its own right and light.

Let the pusillanimous Bengal relegate its great actors and directors in the oblivion during Kolkata film festival and try to resemble the moon by borrowing "sunlight" from Bollywood celebrities and turn laughing stock of the nation; but Arunachal Pradesh should carve out its unique niche in the heart of India and the world through the broad and proud shoulders of Jeli Kayi, Nangbia Chanda, Toko Teji, Bamang Loram and Takio Soki as pointed out by Tamin.

Yours,

Kajal Chatterjee,

Kolkata

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---Editor