Wildlife lover hands over endangered bird to Zoo
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: A resolution adopted by the East Kameng Socio Welfare and Cultural Organisation (EKSWCO) not to eat wildlife meat bore fruit when a wildlife enthusiast rescued an endangered bird and handed it over to the Itanagar Biological Park (IBP) authority here today for further rehabilitation.
Arunachal Press Club (APC) President, Chopa Cheda on Thursday, while coming from Seppa to the state capital, purchased the bird by paying Rs 800 to an elderly lady in between Relloh and Sagalee.
The lady had captured the bird from the forest and was looking for potential customers.
The Black-
The rare bird is included in the Schedule IV of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Earlier on June 1, 2013, Cheda had donated a monitor lizard (Voranus Bengalensis), a Schedule I animal, to the park, which was caught in his residence.
Extending his gratitude on behalf of the Environment and Forest department, Flago appreciated Cheda's effort in rescuing the bird and handing over to the zoo authority. "I appeal to every citizen of the state to follow such gesture in preservation and conservation of our rich wildlife heritage and stop hunting," Flago added.
Cheda, who is also the Press advisor of EKSWCO, informed that the organisation in its 37th Foundation Day last year, resolved to stop eating wildlife meat to minimise hunting, a common practice prevalent in the tribal communities of the state.
"Through this little effort, I want to create awareness among the people of the state about preservation and conservation of wildlife, the true asset of the state," he said.
"It is high time the people should realise the importance of wildlife and stop the practice of hunting otherwise days are not far away when our younger generations have to search Google to see pictures of the wildlife species, once abundant in the state or need to go outside the state to see them at Zoos," Cheda added. PTI
Expired goods worth over Rs 2 lakhs seized, destroyed
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: Sangram Bazaar Welfare Committee (SBWC) seized expired/outdated goods worth over Rs Two Lakhs from various grocery and wholesale shops of Sangram Market during a search operation on January four.
Later, the seized goods, which were outdated or lacked manufacturing label, were burnt, informed SBWC in a release.
The search operation was carried out following public complaints of selling consumers items beyond expiry date by various shops in the market since last many years. The market welfare committee lamented that most of the consumers do not bother to check the date of manufacture and expiry, printed price and other information given on the label of packaged commodities by the manufacturer.
The market committee appealed to the consumers to know their rights and check date of manufacturing and expiry thoroughly before purchasing any consumer item since consumption of expired food and beverage may cause serious health problems.
The Market Welfare Committee welcomed the Sangram SDO M.Tato's initiative to make the township free from stray animal.
Traffic awareness campaign receives overwhelming response
PASIGHAT, Jan 8: The four days traffic awareness campaign which concluded here on Thursday received an overwhelming public response.
The public were given various road safety tips and advised the motorists/drivers to follow traffic rules while driving.
Pamphlets containing road safety tips, directions and advisories were also distributed among the public during the campaign which was organized by the District Administration.
Emphasizing the need for creating more public awareness on rules of road, Deputy Commissioner Isha Khosla appealed to all to obey traffic rules for their own safety. He also urged the civil society, media fraternity and NGOs to come forward and help create mass awareness for effectiveness of the campaign.
Rapid urbanization in Pasighat has resulted in increase of vehicles in the township in manifold and driving in Pasighat involves huge risks, she said. There is urgent need of traffic regulation measure in Pasighat, the DC said. Saying that rash driving has been one of the major causes of road accident, the DC advocated for stringent punishment for unruly drivers who violates the traffic laws.
She administered an oath where everyone pledged that they would follow traffic rules and regulations in their life.
DTO (Tpt) Chakfa Wangsu said it is difficult to work alone and cooperation of society is necessary for betterment of people. Wangsu further informed that his department is taking steps to decentralize and decongest the town.
MVI N Ete spoke on the occasion.
Member of Parliament Ninong Ering also attended the programme.
East Siang unit of All Arunachal Pradesh Public Transport Federation actively participated in the event.
Traffic police also demonstrated road safety measures and rules of road. DIPRO
Tuki Govt using NSCN(K) to stay in power, says Tirap, Longding leaders
Aboh refutes allegation, says MLAs are frustrated
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: Three MLAs from Tirap and Longding has alleged that the state government is using the NSCN (K) to coerce representatives from Tirap, Changlang and Longding (TCL) to support the leadership of Nabam Tuki.
In a press statement, Thangwang Wangham, Honchun Ngandam and Gabriel D Wangsu alleged
of threat and intimidation being "issued through NSCN (K) by Chief Minister Nabam
Tuki and Minister Tirong Aboh in coercing the MLAs from the three districts to support
the Tuki’s leadership.” They alleged that Panngam Ngandam, nephew of Honchun Ngandam,
MLA, Pongchau-
The demand states that "Honchun Ngandam should lend his support to Nabam Tuki, as the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh and that all other MLAs from TCL districts should also immediately go back to Itanagar and support Tuki.”
"If these directions are not complied by the leaders of TCL, then their near and dear ones including close party workers would be kidnapped and necessary action may be initiated against those MLAs" the three MLAs informed.
They further said they “vehemently condemn such cheap act of Nabam Tuki and Tirong Aboh, who are conniving with NSCN (K) cadre Johnny Longriam to carry out an act of abduction to mentally torture the MLAs of TCL and to protect their government from defeat.” They further alleged that the NSCN (K) cadres are still not willing to return the kidnapped boy until Ngandam go back to Itanagar to join Tuki Camp. Nabam Tuki and Tirong Aboh should bring back the abducted boy from Myanmar immediately to prove that they clean and are not involved in such nefarious and unethical activities failing which the legal action should be initiated against them by the law enforcing authority, the statement further read.They added that Johnny Longriam had earlier sent a message to Thangwang Wangham and Honchun Ngandam to come back to Tuki camp with an offer to give important ministerial portfolios.The three leaders further alleged that "Nabam Tuki in a similar recourse in 2011 had intimidated the MLAs of TCL districts using the support of ultras to topple Jarbom Gamlin Government and penalize the MLAs of Tirap, Changlang and Longding district who were not in his camp. His coming to the post of Chief Minister in 2011 was not by democratic process but through aggression and creating law and order problem in the twin city of Itanagar and Naharlagun.”
Meanwhile, Longding Police has received an FIR regarding the alleged kidnapping case and has started the preliminary enquiry on. Based on the enquiry report, a case will be registered, said DSP, Longding.
While talking to this daily, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Tirong Aboh today refuted the allegations of using ultras by the state govt to stay in power.
Reacting to allegations by Honchun Ngandam, Thangwang Wangham and Gabriel D Wangsu, he said that soon he will file defamation case against them for leveling false allegation, thereby harming his and CM’s image. "Playing politics is one thing but leveling such kind of baseless allegation which has potential to damage someone's hard earned reputation is very wrong. I humbly appeal my seniors not to indulge in such cheap antics," the minister said.
He alleged that out of frustration, Honchun Ngandam is leveling baseless allegation against him and Chief Minister.
Further he added, "Instead of issuing press release they should lodge case and let police investigate the matter. In fact I welcome immediate enquiry into the matter."
"Dissident MLAs from Tirap, Changlang and Longding (TCL) who are camping in Delhi since last four month is not able to visit their constituencies as public are very angry with them. Out of frustration, they are leveling wild allegation," said Aboh.
He also denied having any contact with members of NSCN (K).
"In fact majority of NSCN (K) cadre comes from the village of Honchun Ngandam. Pangchau-
The minister also added that he has no relation with Johnny Longriam. "He may be from my area but I have nothing to do with him. Boys from almost every assembly constituency of Tirap, Changlang and Longding (TCL) join various UG groups. Does it mean all MLAs of TCL are in touch with them,” he asked.
“As a minister I am trying my best for the development of Tirap, Changlang and Longding. It's unfortunate that instead of supporting me, my senior colleagues are creating obstacles. I am really saddened with this development," Aboh added.
Court battle continues
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: The Gauhati high court today completed hearing of case related to advancing of Legislative Assembly Session by Governor and disqualification of 14 Congress MLAs by the Speaker Nabam Rebia.
Justice BK Sharma is expected to pass the judgment on 12th January. A writ petition was filed by dissident Congress MLAs Pema Khandu and 13 of his colleagues, who were disqualified by Rebia under 10th Schedule of Constitution. They contended that the order of disqualification was passed by the speaker in violation of natural justice without giving them an opportunity of hearing.
On December 17 last Speaker Nabam Rebia had filed writ petition challenging his removal as speaker and also decision of Governor JP Rajkhowa to advance the assembly session. Justice Hrishikesh Roy had kept in abeyance the impugned decisions including the notification issued by the Deputy Speaker restoring the membership of 14 suspended MLAs and the holding of the "session" at a new place and also the decision taken at the "session" in which the Speaker was removed. The court had fixed next date of hearing on February 1. However, this decision was once again challenged by deputy speaker T Norbu and matter was being heard in the court of Justice BK Sharma. Dissident MLAs also challenged the disqualification and court has given them stay till 19th January.
Meanwhile Speaker Rebia took the matter to Supreme Court. According to the source, the Supreme Court has fixed next date of hearing on 13th January.
Highlight the Tibetan cause: R K Khrimey
NEW DELHI, Jan 8: Former Minister and National Convener, Core Group for Tibetan Cause R K Khrimey stressed the need of highlighting the issue of Tibet at the level of Indian government as well as in the public domain. He said this at an event commemorating His Holiness, the Dalai Lama's 80th Birth Anniversary in New Delhi on January 4th.
He said that time has now come to show solidarity with Tibetan people as their culture and civilization is under threat, population has become marginal, environment has become fragile and political demand is for autonomy not for independence. Despite these, he said that China is not showing any concern and for which he calls upon the attention that why it requires global support and particularly India's support for facilitating His Holiness the Dalai Lama's return to his motherland amicably and honorably. The event was attended by former Prime Minister Dr.Manmohan Singh, former Deputy Prime Minister L.K.Advani, Lt. Governor of Delhi Najeeb Jung and Historian Dr.Ramchandra Guha, among others.
Lifter Sambo selected for national coaching camp
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: The Indian Weightlifting Federation has selected Sambo Lapung (69 Kg) for National Coaching Camp to be held at Sports Authority of India, Netaji Subash National Institute of Sports, Patiala, Punjab to prepare the national team for various international senior weightlifting Championship including 2016 Rio Olympic Games. After Jimjang Deru and Kojum Taba, Sambo Lapung is the third weightlifter from Arunachal Pradesh to be selected for the national coaching camp for various Internation competitions in senior category including 2016 Rio Olympics, informed Arunachal Weightlifting Association.
The two and half month-
His selection came after his outstanding performance at the 68th Senior National Weightlifting Championship at Patiala, Punjab in December 2015, where he struck 3 gold medals.
Sambo has brought many laurels to the State since 2011. He won Gold medal at All India inter SAI championship at Aurangabad and Bronze medal at 7th Youth National Weightlifting Championship, held at Nirjuli (Arunachal Pradesh) in 2011. He became Youth National Champion winning three Gold medals at 8th Youth and Junior National Champion at 49th Junior National Weightlifting Championship in 2012.
In 2013, he has successfully defended both his Youth and Junior National Championship titles at National Weightlifting Championship held at Guwahati.
At international level, Sambo has won silver medal at Commonwealth Youth Championship in Apia, Samoa in 2012.
In 2013, he became Asian Youth Champion as well as Commonwealth Youth Champion. The Asian title was achieved at 15th Asian Youth Weightlifting Championship in Doha, Qatar and Commonwealth title at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship held in Penang, Malaysia, the AWA informed.
Rs.49 Cr. plus sanctioned for tourist circuit
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: Union Tourism Ministry has sanctioned Rs.49,76,59,906 for development
of Bhalukpong -
The proposal includes infrastructure development in one of the busiest tourist circuit
of the state. Besides, way side amenities for tourists and cafeterias, eco log huts,
trekking trail etc. will be built all along the Bhalukpong -
Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, Mama Natung while thanking the union tourism ministry, assured that every penny of the development fund would be judiciously and expeditiously used. He said that the Arunachal Pradesh has the potential to become a tourism hub and with the support and guidance of Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and the central financial assistance, state is poised to become a front runner in terms of tourism industry in the days to come.
Natung called upon the Tourism department officers to gear up and put their soul to ensure completion of the projects well in time while maintaining utmost quality. It may be mentioned that this is another major development under Tourism sector this year as the state had received a whopping Rs.97,13,67,718 earlier under 'Integrated Development of New Adventure Tourism in Arunachal Pradesh' for development of infrastructure and basic amenities necessary to tap the immense tourism potential of the state.
Towards cleanliness
[ Hage Yami ]
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: Even though some efforts are being put to keep twin towns of Itanagar, Naharlagun and nearby areas clean, lack of dumping ground as well as garbage disposal system has come as a massive obstacle.
An IMC official said that they have been facing many issues regarding dumping of garbage as the Solid Waste Management Plant at Chimpu remains non functional, adding to the pile up of garbage in the twin towns.
According to IMC, to alleviate the garbage issue, authorities have provided 190 dustbins in the state capital but the problems remain manifold.
The IMC is also planning to take help of the public in maintaining cleanliness. They
would also include the members of nongovernmental organisat-
"If anyone sees a person dumping trashes, he or she should take picture and upload it in the IMC website. Strong action will be taken against such person who litters," said an official of IMC.
The municipal vehicle collects garbage in the morning and as soon as the vehicle leaves, it has been seen that the people comes and throws their thrashes beside the dustbin, the official added.
The onus of keeping the twin towns clean is not only on the IMC but business community and ordinary citizens as well.
If everyone does their bit, it would not be a very tough job to keep the towns clean. But the first step is to use dustbins provided by the authorities and restart Solid Waste Management Plant.
(Yami is a recipient of The Arunachal Times Media Scholarship 2015-
APSCW condemns torture on girl, seeks action
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: Strongly condemning the recent incident involving torture on an eight year old girl who was working as a domestic helper in Mirsam, Pasighat by her employer, the APSCW today appealed to the East Siang SP to take strict action against the culprits involved and book them under relevant sections of the law at the earliest.
APSCW Member Secretary, Yame Higio in a release, said that it is painful to see such inhumane and barbaric atrocities being meted out to a child, every child has the right to live with dignity and needs to be protected from all kinds of atrocities. The Commission condemns the act in the strongest words and requests the district administration and East Siang SP not to grant bail to the accused, she added.
Appreciating the district administration and Joya Tasung Moyong besides, members of Women Against Social Evils of East Siang district for their promptness in rescuing the girl, the APSCW and Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR), Itanagar further appealed all to report against any crime being committed against children to the concerned district administration, District Child Welfare Committee, Labour office or to call 1098 Child Help Line (in case of Capital Complex), Police Station, APSCPCR or to NGOs working for the protection of child rights.
Check drugs menace: AdiSU
ITANAGAR, Jan 08: Expressing grave concern over growing drugs menace in Namsai and Jaipur area, Adi Students' Union (AdiSU) has appealed to the district administration to take appropriate measures to curb the menace.
Seven persons were caught red-
All of them were handed over to Namsai Police along with the drugs (brown sugar), AdiSU said and appealed to the DC to transfer the addict teacher to some other place.
Various check gates like Dirak, Bordumsa, Sunpura, Mudoi etc. are the gateways to
Namsai district and main corridors of drugs peddlers coming from different places,
AdiSU said and appealed to the DC to instruct police officers-
AdiSU further appealed to the DC to check the unwanted gatherings of addicts often seen in the evening time on the roadside of PHED water tank near Circuit House and some other places.
While demanding regular police patrolling to check such unwanted gathering, where new and young ones taste their first dose of drugs and later become addicted, AdiSU expressed the fear that the ugly tentacles of drugs might grab the entire district unless a timely and effective preventive measure is taken.
AdiSU lamented police inaction in checking illegal and unauthorized selling of Indian mad foreign liquor in grocery shops and pan ghumtis despite repeated demand.
Meanwhile, the students' union expressed their willingness to hold special meeting along with the district administration, Police, various NGOs and students' union of Namsai district to discuss and to find out a solution to drugs menace and other illegal activities of Namsai District.
Ering doles out funds for village road, fire victims etc.
PASIGHAT, Jan 8: "Service to people is my prime duty" said Ninong Ering, Lok Sabha
East MP today while addressing a public meeting at Depi-
Responding to a four points memorandum submitted by the villagers of Depi-
Ering also announced the sanction of Rs.11 lakhs for the Dec 31 fire victims of Lazu village, Khonsa where 38 residential houses were reduced to ashes in a major fire accident.
Among others ADC Nari, Moki Loyi, ZPMs Kenyom Dabii and Takir Kakki, and Anchal Chairperson Yalum Sora and GBs also spoke on the occasion. DIPRO
AAPPTF submits memo on imposition of parking fee by IMC
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: The All Arunachal Pradesh Public Transport Federation (AAPPTF) led by its President, Dobing Sonam and General Secretary, Gyamar Talik on Thursday submitted a memorandum to Chief Secretary Rameh Negi expressing objection regarding the levying of parking tax by the Itanagar Municipality Council (IMC).
The federation apprised the Chief Secretary that the IMC which has started imposing
parking taxes within its jurisdiction from January 06 last has accordingly converted
certain areas along the Itanagar-
"Prior to levying of parking tax, it is the duty of the government to develop proper parking areas with basic facilities and only then it has to be followed by levying of taxes. At present there is only one structure at Bank Tinali, which was constructed to be used as parking space and can be put into use for the purpose. Presently, the areas along the road and those areas which were already in use of the public and developed/maintained by the public have been converted into parking spaces," AAPPTF wrote in the memorandum.
"It is an open secret that the roads in and around the Capital Complex are not even fit for plying of two vehicles at a time and in such situation, the areas mostly along the road which have been converted into parking spaces by the Municipal also does not fulfill the basic standards," it added.
The federation also expressed its dismay over the fact that the contract for collection of taxes have been awarded to some private individuals and firms without floating any tender which is against the normal procedure.
Asserting that the federation being the apex body of public transport fraternity is not against development or collection of tax by the government, however, questioned on how the government can collect taxes for the services which is not being provided properly.
"The basis on which the rates have been fixed is also unknown to the public till now," the letter further stated.
Further requesting the Chief Secretary and the state government along with the IMC to construct or improve the areas to be converted into parking spaces, the AAPPTF added that as far as conversion of roadside areas into parking space is concerned, same is not viable and will definitely further narrow the already dilapidated road causing traffic congestion.
"The idea of roadside parking should be brought into only after proper widening of the road is completed and the awarding of contract for collection of tax should be done through proper tender process as the same cannot be done unilaterally by the Chief Councilor at her whims and fancy," the letter read.
Among others executive members of the East Kameng unit of AAPPTF were also present on the occasion.
DUDA to issue regulations for clean Roing
Correspondent
ROING, Jan 8: New regulations on keeping Roing town clean will be passed soon by the District Urban Development Agency, Lower Dibang Valley. "Government quarters are not meant to be rearing or breeding places for animals", said Chairman DUDA, DC Roing Ravi Dhavan in an awareness cum interaction programme under Swachh Bharat Mission at the Anchal Samiti Hall here today.
"Roing is going to see an explosion of economic and tourist activities in near future. The economic potential of the town will be truly harnessed. Cleanliness and sanitation is an absolute necessity, said Dhavan.
The DC said that the regulations and bye-
Everester Tine Mena, who is the Brand Ambassador of the mission, shared her experiences
as a mountaineer said that when total cleanliness is maintained to keep the mountain
tops clean, how can we not keep our towns clean. "They have very strict rules against
littering in the mountains. Fines are imposed and points are also deducted as punishment
if found guilty. There are strict rules for urinating and defecating as well", she
said. She also informed that the local Sherpas trade feces for money from bio-
Mena also requested the district administration for constructing toilets and dustbins at Mayudia, which is a popular tourist destination. "The scenic beauty of Mayudia is always scarred by the feces lying here and there", she said.
DD DUDA, Riya Powak gave an overview of the mission and spoke about its objectives.
DMO D. Wange informed that health department is working on creating awareness for cleanliness and hygiene through programmes like Intensified Diarrhoea Control Programme and awareness programmes by ASHAs and ANMs in village levels.
Representatives from NHPC, HDFC, NGOs like AAMYA and Greener Earth also spoke about their contribution in keeping the town clean.
The meeting which was primarily for HoDs of various departments of the district was also attended by Panchayat members, members of NGOs and other agencies.
AWKSU and ASSU disowns statements made by APYC GS
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: All West Kameng Students' Union (AWKSU) and All Sajolang (Miji)
Students' Union (ASSU) today disowned the statements made by the president of All
Aka-
Addressing media persons at Press Club this afternoon, Spokesperson of All Sajolang (Miji) Students' Union Franklin Naloiju termed the statement where he claimed that the MoS has never helped the union as unfortunate.
"The claim made by Kalley is purely on personal interest. He should know that the
MoS is not for Aka-
He also rubbished Kalley's claim where he has denounced the MoS of doing nothing for the long pending demand of Bichhum district.
"The MoS is the founder of the demand for Bichhum district. It is not in his hand to approve the district demand," the spokesperson said.
President of All West Kameng District Students' Union Minda Longthen calling the statement immature said that his union seeks explanation from Kalley.
Also seeking apology from him as soon as possible, Minda claimed that Kalley in actual is Abul Sangchoju who changed his surname to Rijuju and not Rijiju as mentioned in the local dailies. He clarified that Rijuju is different from Rijiju.
He further urged Arunachal Pradesh Youth Congress (APYC) to terminate Kalley from the post of general secretary.
"A person with such immature and loose talks should not continue as the general secretary of APYC," he said.
Advisor of All Sajolang (Miji) Students' Union Kamtang Khunjuju also quashed the
name of the union All Aka-
MOs, nursing students and tutors trained on emergency care
NAHARLAGUN, Jan 8: The Directorate of Medical Education, Training & Research which was created two years ago, has embarked on its journey of training manpower to strengthen the healthcare in the state.
As a part of its initiative, the directorate in collaboration with WHO-
Six-
The workshop delved on skills for initial assessment, triage and management of emergency
with skill stations on use of ambu-
On second day, focus was mainly on using ultrasonography for emergency care in primary healthcare level.
The sessions included lecture as well as hands-
In the meeting, WHO recognized that all people have a right to quality basic emergency care at the primary level, without regard to ability to pay and called for priority actions in four areas. One among the four action points included training in dedicated emergency care for all providers facing acutely ill and injured patients at primary level facilities.
Owing to the limitations of road communication and adequate numbers of well equipped health institutions in the state, as of now the main thrust area for improvement of "Emergency services" is by capacity building. As a way forward, the Department envisages to train all medical officers in emergency care in collaboration with WHO and AIIMS.
Dr. Moji Jini, Director of Health Services also shared the vision of Chief Secretary Ramesh Negi to equip health facilities up to CHC level with Ultrasonography machines and other emergency equipments with the team of faculties from AIIMS.
The faculty team included Dr. Sanjeev Bhoi, Dr. Deepak Agrawal, Dr. Tejprakash Sinha, Dr. Shabbir Khan, Shoukkath Ali V. and Shakuntla Sundriyal.
DC urges officials to ensure proper implementation of IPPI
AALO, Jan 8: West Siang DC Pige Ligu advised the officers and all stakeholders to
remain sincere towards their respective duties to ensure proper implementation of
the IPPI programme 2015-
He also assured to give all possible assistance for successful implementation of programme.
In the meeting, the departments of Education & ICDS, which are the main stakeholders of Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram programme (RBSK) assured to provide updated list of number of students/children enrolled in schools and Anganwadi Centers to the Health department soon.
Aalo DMO, Dr. Marbom Basar also directed all the MOs incharge of health facilities to bring forth issues in implementation of the IPPI and other programe in similar meetings while, DPM Yomto Lollen informed that the 1st Round and 2nd Round of IPPI has been fixed on Jan 17 and Feb 21 next respectively.
DFWO, Dr. K Ori, DDSE, Tumto Lollen, ICDS Deputy Director incharge Bahi Koyu and medical officers from health facilities besides, members of District Level Award Committee on Kayakalp also attended the meeting.
Sensitization of Kayakalp programe to District Kayakalp award committee and review
of RBSK, Mission Indradanush-
Education Minister reviews progress of ongoing projects
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: Education Minister Tapang Taloh reviewed the progress of various ongoing projects under his department in the state with the directors and other officers of Education Department.
Apart from ongoing projects like construction of Govt. Engineering College, Toru, Govt. Law College, Jote, Govt. Women College, Lekhi, Arunachal Pradesh State University, Pasighat the progress of the various schemes under Rashtriya Shiksha Uchchatar Abhiyan, Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan were also discussed.
While chairing the review meeting, the Minister directed the officers to be proactive in timely implementation of the projects and schemes sanctioned under education sector.
Education being the main pillar of the society, he advised the officers and officials of his department to be sincere and maintain transparency in every field.
Emphasizing on quality man power in Education Department, Taloh directed the officers to assess and analyze the man power requirement.
Coffee table book on the Rhododendrons released
From a Correspondent
Guwahati, Jan 8: Governor of Assam, PB Acharya launched "Rhododendrons of the Eastern Himalaya" a coffee table book on the Rhododendrons plants on Thursday last at NEDFi Hut here.
Commending the effort, the Governor congratulated the department of Science and Technology, govt of AP and the team led by noted documentary director and actor Lovita JR Morang who labouriously worked on the project consisting of a short film and the book.
Rhododendrons which are higher altitude plants are highly dominant and other species are dependent on it for maintaining ecological balance.
The Rhododendrons are considered as "climate change" indicator plant in the era of global warming when glaciers are melting and snow covers are disappearing.
This has been published by Department Of Science and Technology, Govt Of Arunachal Pradesh and supported by North East Council, Shillong.
Arunachal to participate in BC Roy Trophy
ITANAGAR, Jan 08: Arunachal Pradesh will participate in the National Football Championship for BC Roy Trophy (Junior) scheduled to be held from the last week of this month in Chattishgarh.
A selection trial will be conducted to select the state team for the championship at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium on January 12.
Players born in between January 1, 1999 and 2001 only are asked to attend the selection trial. They are also advised to bring with them birth certificate in original or class X pass certificate.
Senior monk dies at 68
NAHARALGUN, Jan 8: Senior Buddhist Monk Venerable Gynapiya Mahathero passed away after a prolonged illness this morning at Namsai today.
Gynapiya breathed his last in the Pariyati Sasana Buddhist Vihara Namsai. With his
death, Gynapiya attained the ultimate maha parinirvana. In Buddhism, the term parinirvana
is commonly used to refer to nirvana-
His last rites will be performed in accordance with the Theravada Buddhist ritual popularly known as Poi Leng within the 20 days time, informed Venerable Aggaddhamma, Head monk of Pariyati Sasana Buddhist Vihara Namsai.
The Theravada Buddhist Society Itanagar expresses deep sorrow over the passing away of Venerable Gynapiya Mahathero and prayed for his attainment of eternal nirvana. With his death, the Theravada Buddhist Society has lost one of its prominent monks and he will be long remembered in Buddhist Society.
ANSU team visits fire victims, provides relief materials
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: A team of All Nyishi Students' Union (ANSU) visited the fire victims of Ligu village and provided some relief materials to them.
The ANSU team strongly urged the concern authority for providing immediate relief fund to the victims. It also appealed to the State Govt. for providing special relief package to the victims and also spot verification of the accident to assess the properties lost or damaged in the fire.
Deliver services to poor and needy, Taloh
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: Minister WRD Tapang Taloh has called on the officers to be sincere in their duties and deliver effective services to poor and needy rural people. He was speaking at a review meeting of the Water Resource Department held today at his office at Itanagar.
Taloh stated that the WRD can play important roles in alleviation of rural economy in a sustainable way in addition to preservation of ecology by providing assured irrigation facilities to permanent agricultural lands. He advised the officers not to compromise the quality of works and to implement them taking the confidence of PRI members.
Secretary WRD, Geyum Padu advised the officers to devote sincerely in formulation of schemes based on the ground and discouraged deviation during execution.
The Chief Engineers of the department presented achievements and annual action plans of their respective zones and assured to achieve the targets as scheduled in the Annual Development Agenda.
Among others all the SEs and SSWs attended the meeting.
Release pension: ex-
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: Claiming that some pensioners of Ex-
SIT demanded to probe suspected murder case
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: Biri Welfare Society (BWS) has appealed to the State's Director General of Police (DGP) for constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the suspected murder case of one Biri Yama @ Mema.
The Society in its letter to the DGP also appealed to the DGP not to release the alleged accused in the case, who is currently under the custody of Nirjuli Police.
Lt Gen Suresh Sharma takes over as DGBR
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: Lieutenant General Suresh Sharma has taken over as the 24th Director General Border Roads (DGBR) on Jan 6.
Lt Gen Suresh Sharma was commissioned into Corps of Engineers from Indian Military Academy, Dehradun and has attended all prestigious courses of the Indian Army including Staff Course at Defence Service Staff College, Wellington, and Higher Defence Management Course at College of Defence Management, Secunderabad and the National Defence College, New Delhi. The General Officer has held various staff, instructional and command appointments. Before taking over as Director General Border Roads, he was holding the post of Director General Combat Engineers at Army HQ.
Op. Smile launched
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: Capital Police has launched "Operation Smile" within the area of Capital Complex to rescue and rehabilitate missing children.
Informing that "no child shall be employed or permitted to work in any occupation
or process" as per provision of Section -
Any contravention of the provision is punishable under Section-
Case against Pul
ITANAGAR, Jan 8: Capital City SP informed that City police has launched investigation into the audio clipping case involving Kalikho Pul after registering a case based on FIR No.300/15 at Itanagar Police Station U/S 153(A)(I)/504 IPC.
The Court has summoned the alleged accused to show cause and fixed the next date on January 22.
Rededicate for the cause of community: Taloh
PASIGHAT, Jan 8: Education Minister Tapang Taloh addressing a programme at Lokpeng Primary School, Siang district said that all should rededicate to contribute for the upliftment of the community. The government is working for the welfare of the teachers and therefore the teachers in turn should realize their responsibilities and work with more dedication and missionary zeal so that the literacy rate of the state is raised, he opined.
Taloh sought fullest cooperation and support from all so that government programs and policies are implemented properly and deprived sections of the society are benefited.
Siang Deputy Commissioner N Lego said that teachers should update themselves with the latest methods and the requirement of the moment. DIPRO
DC reviews progress of dev. projects
SEPPA, Jan 8: The progress of various developmental projects being undertaken by
respective department were reviewed during a co-
During the meeting, departmental issues were resolved and discussion on the preparation
of Kameng River Festival-
In his address, East Kameng DC Sandeep Kumar Singh enquired about the status of repair
and maintenance of Pacha Hydel, road maintenance of New Seppa, Micro Hydel at Chayangtajo
sub-
ADI N Doka also urged the HoDs to submit the vision document soon for further forwarding to the government.
Further, JE Power (E&M) informed that the Pacha Hydel shall start functioning from Jan 20 next. (DIPRO)
January 09
Editorial
It’s better to be prepared
In the last few days North East region has been rocked by series of earthquakes. On Monday, a strong quake measuring 6.7 on the Richter scale hit Tamenglong in Manipur. This was followed by many small and medium aftershocks. In Manipur many people lost lives. The earthquake also caused massive damage to property and infrastructure. Yesterday a medium intensity earthquake, measuring 4.5 on the Richter scale hit Arunachal Pradesh. Even though there was no loss of life and property but it created panic.
Adding to the panicky situation union home ministry's disaster management experts recently warned that in future earthquakes with a magnitude of 8.2 or greater on the Richter scale may hit the already ruptured Himalayan region. However the big question is whether our state is ready to face such kind of disaster? Lack of good health care facilities and absence of well trained disaster response team is a major hurdle. Also the department of disaster management is not doing enough to educate people about various issues related to disaster. There should be rigorous awareness campaign throughout the state. District administration will have to play their part too. Strict checking should be carried out so as to ensure that building laws are being properly followed. Action should be taken against those who violate the building laws. People of state should themselves take precautionary measure. Everyone is aware that Arunachal comes under earthquake prone area. Therefore while constructing houses they should exercise maximum caution.
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Readers’ Forum
A New Year for soul-
Dear Editor,
Indeed, 1st January is a big day because we step into a day which is the beginning of the year. Absolutely a new time, the time for celebration, time for fun. Of course, also a new occasion to feel important to resolve to take up promising things and think more innovatively. But one is extremely confused as to what is the reason so strong and significant that we should celebrate the occasion letting our hair down — shedding all human inhibitions with booze and organizing wild parties.
It seems what we have been doing is absolutely the reverse. Instead, as one believes, we should feel rather regret that another year has also just elapsed without our efforts to learn to become a little more like a human being. We should feel rather important to knell down with remorse and tears in the eyes before the altar begging the Almighty for His pardons that how we have become more prone to commit sins these days than the previous years. More than anything, why are we not aware that we have become older by one more year which is far too regrettable? But, if this new year celebration would make us younger by one year then we could certainly jump and hop like a child in ecstasy and wish everyone — a happy new year!
This is not to preach and spread a message of pessimism but just a reality check
that our mindless merry-
It may be reiterated that the New Year is a significant occasion to do real introspection,
to be more meditative and make solemn resolutions to undertake constructive things
rather than mere indulgences in a series of entertainments. It is a time to glorify
the Almighty who has created this wonderful world and eternal-
Yours,
Salil Gewali, Shillong
Cooperation instead of conflict
Dear Editor,
Mr. Kajal Chatterjee should be thanked for his feedback to the letter, ‘Need a legislation
to rid the baggage of prejudice’ ( January 5, 2016) and for his identifying the caste
system as ‘the greatest evil’ in his letter ‘Counter view’ (January 7, 2016). He
has put forward an exceptional instance of his Brahmin cousin being mocked at school
for having an uncommon surname ‘Malkhandi’. This leads him to conclude that ‘mocking
certain person by exploiting their surnames has no relationship with the caste system’.
I hope his Brahmin cousin ( Mr. Malkhandi) must have completed his school unlike
my Dalit classmate ( Mr. Mal) who had to drop out of school to save himself from
the ignominy of surname that channeled all the insults towards his parents and his
family occupation. However, his Malkhandi point shows that if there is a ban on the
use of surname, it will even save the day for some Brahmins as well who have exceptionally
uncommon surname. It is true as Mr. Chatterjee has, rightly, pointed out that apart
from surname there are other sticks to beat a person with like the name of one’s
village etc. However, we can easily see that a surname is the biggest stick as it
identifies a person and his or her caste 24x7. Besides, surnames route offenders’
acid spitting towards victims’ parents and family occupation. In India, the caste
system is hell bent on making the status of blue collar workers as lesser animals.
If Mr. Kajal has a surname of a very important occupation say Chamar (cobbler)
or Dom ( worker in a burning ghat) or Paramanik ( barber) instead of Chatterjee (Brahmin
priest), he could not have said, ‘mocking certain persons by exploiting their surnames
has no relationship with the caste system’ as the words ‘chamar’ and ‘dom’ have,
frequently, been used to call somebody names in common parlance. Unfortunately, Indians
are yet to respect such valuable professions. I can feel the pain as I, myself, am
carrying a half pariah surname that announces my belonging to other backward castes.
In fact, pariahs are in a quandary about what to do with their surnames. It is difficult
to live with it. It is also hard to drop it as in that case people will say you are
cheating at your surname. Only a blanket ban can redress a pariah’s plight. Mr.
Chatterjee asks if it is necessary to hide one’s ethnic and religious identity as
well along with one’s surname and to identify ourselves as Mr. Blue etc to avoid
nepotism. Though the question is asked in lighter vain, it needs to be followed in
interviews to hide as far as practicable the caste, race and religious identity of
interviewees to arrest nepotism. Instead of Mr. Sky Blue etc, certain number can
easily act as an identity of an interviewee.According to Mr. Chatterjee the problem
of surname in a marriage is an immaterial thing and there are instances of happy
wives with wiped parental surnames and unhappy wives having original surnames. I
wonder even in those cases if wives’ surname changing has been made an issue or
condition for conjugal happiness. Mr. Chatterjee rightly says that mutual affection
and sacrifice are necessary in a marriage since it is a noble relationship. When
he himself is calling for mutual sacrifice, I cannot understand why he fights shy
of the idea of mutual sacrifice of surname. Let both life partners drop this what
Mr. Chatterjee describes as only an immaterial thing.However, no one can deny Mr.
Chatterjee’s view that ‘all depends upon the mindset of people’ and ’people should
learn to rise above narrow mindset’. This is indeed the real panacea. When our mindset
become humane, we will strive for cooperation instead of conflict. There will not
be any existence of crime or punishment. But it is still miles to go to reach to
that stage. Education is the most effective apparatus to get to the ideal society.
As Pratichi Trust report on primary education reveals that some teachers themselves
are using sticks to touch a Dalit, such a dream society seems to be a far cry at
least as of now. At present, the monster of prejudice is making people dance to
his tunes and killing one’s own children in the name of honour (!) killing. According
to statistics from the United Nations one in five cases of ‘honour killing’ internationally
every year comes from India. The cases of honour killing have been on the rise in
India. This leads to a proposal that India badly needs a legislation on ‘honour killing’.
This is enough to show that there is no question of sitting idle finger crossed in
the hope of changing the mindset of people to have a permanent solution. It is time
to attack all the pockets of prejudice such as surnames, Khap Panchayets (kangaroo
courts), public display of contempt towards any caste or accepted profession from
all front-
Yours,
Sujit De, Kolkata
NOTICE
The office and press of this Daily will remain closed on account of annual general meeting of the Arunachal Press Club, Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists and Arunachal Electronic Media Association on Jan 9th. Therefore, there will be no issue on Jan 10th.
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