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Arunachal has huge potential in food processing sector: ASSOCHAM

ITANAGAR, Jan 18: Arunachal Pradesh has huge potential in food processing sector which needs to be promoted aggressively to strengthen the economy of the state, observed Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM).

Highlighting the growth of agriculture and processed food sector in North-East region while comparing it with the overall growth of the economy of Arunachal Pradesh at a day-long conference on “Linking prospective food entrepreneurs with government schemes and market,” ASSOCHAM member (Southern Regional Council) R Shivakumar advocated for focusing on food processing sector which, according to him, has lots of scope to strengthen the economy of the state.

“Food processing industry is a sunrise industry which has the potential of dramatically improving the rural livelihood and bridging the rural-urban divide,” said Sonam Chombay, Secretary Planning, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh.

He said that there is need for supporting the youth of the state to nurture their entrepreneurship skills through financial assistance for start-up business and budding entrepreneurs, and food processing is one such sector that needs to be promoted. The agro climatic condition of Arunachal Pradesh is very suitable for agricultural and horticultural crops and a strong and effective food processing sector would play a significant role in employment generation as well as harnessing and exploiting the local resources, he said.

Saying that market linkage was the major problem being faced by farmers of Arunachal Pradesh, Chombay requested ASSOCHAM to focus on building external market linkage for food processing units in Arunachal Pradesh.

He also called for a constructive partnership that will transform the food processing sector of the country and thereby also transforming the fortunes of Arunachal Pradesh.

Director, North East Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST) Dr. PK Das identified a numbers of constraints both in forward and backward linkages, and called upon small entrepreneurs to thing big and make global brands.

The Government of India is promoting the food processing sector in the region to utilize its vast potentials of raw horticultural produces through its various financial assistance schemes primarily by Ministry of Food Processing Industries through State Government and agencies like MSME, NHB, APEDA, NABARD, QCI, NHM, NERAMAC, Public and Private sector Banks and other financial institutions, he informed.

Tage Tatung, Managing Director, Arunachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing & Processing Board (APHPM &PB) highlighted the initiatives taken by the state Government for promotion of food processing industry and encouraged the youths to grab the opportunities to become entrepreneurs. He also touched upon the central sector schemes for providing modern infrastructure for food processing industries in the Arunachal Pradesh.

Pradeep Kumar, Chief Advisor, Arunachal Chamber of Commerce and Industries said that agriculture is the main occupation for majority of the populace in this region wherein the experts felt that horticulture is an important sector which has major contribution to the economies of this region.

The state's economy is largely agrarian, based on the terraced farming of rice and the cultivation of crops such as maize, millet, wheat, barley, oranges, tea and cardamom. Fruits and vegetables, like banana, pineapple, orange, sweet potato, tapioca chilies, turmeric, ginger, bamboo shoot etc have good marketing scope in this region if properly harvested, processed and packaged, he said.

Other speakers who addressed the Conference included Tony Koyu, Managing Director, Arunachal Pradesh Industrial Development and Financial Corporation  (APIDFC), Tuli Basar, Deputy Director, Department of Industries, Zhorden Tshering Kazi, Assistant Manager, NEDFI- Arunachal Pradesh, G S Khandelwal, Assistant Director In-charge, MSME, Arunachal Pradesh, Inmaul Hussain Saikia, Consultant, APEDA, T Thongtok, Managing Director, Arunachal Pradesh Co Operative Apex Bank, Praveen Kumar Brahma, Assistant General Manager, SBI, Arunachal Pradesh, H.S. Singh, General Manager, NABARD- Arunachal Pradesh, J A Shimiray, Branch Manager, Bank of Baroda and Rameshwar Lal, AGM, Vijaya Bank.

 

 

Arunachal Governor could not have acted on BJP MLAs' resolution: Sibal tells SC

NEW DELHI, Jan 18: The Supreme Court, which is examining constitutional schemes on developments relating to the month-long impasse over the Congress government in Arunachal Pradesh, was today told that the Governor could not have acted on a resolution by opposition BJP MLAs and two independents to advance the assembly session.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Nabam Rebia, who was removed from the post of Speaker by rebel Congress and BJP MLAs, submitted that the Governor could only convene the assembly session on the aid and advice of the government as had happened when January 14 was first fixed as the date for convening the session.

As the senior advocate was making submission, a five- judge Constitution bench headed by Justice J S Khehar, asked him whether Speaker Rebia, as a matter of "constitutional propriety" should not have desisted from exercising his powers in disqualifying 14 rebel MLAs, knowing well that a resolution expressing no-confidence in him has been moved.

Sibal responded to the bench, also comprising Justices Dipak Misra, Madan B Lokur, P C Ghose and N V Ramana, that interpretation of the Constitution has to be to facilitate the functioning of democracy and not to pit one constitutional authority against the other.

The Supreme Court had on January 15 started examining the matter amid continuing impasse over Nabam Tuki-led Congress government in Arunachal Pradesh.

The high-voltage hearing began with Sibal's submissions, listing out legal questions, including the Governor's power to convene Assembly session without the aid and advice of the government.

Rebia was removed as the Speaker by rebel Congress and BJP MLAs in an assembly session held at a community hall in Itanagar on December 16.

It has also been alleged that the Governor had advanced the assembly sitting from January 14 to December 16 without the aid and advice of Chief Minister and his council of ministers. There have been simultaneous developments in the political crisis in Arunachal Pradesh as the High Court on January 13 vacated its interim stay on calling the assembly and gave a free hand to the Governor to summon it, giving hope to the rebel Congress and BJP MLAs to oust the Congress government.

Congress party, which has 47 MLAs seats in the 60-member assembly, suffered a jolt when 21 of its lawmakers rebelled. Eleven BJP MLAs backed the rebels in the bid to upstage the government. Later, 14 rebel Congress MLAs were disqualified. PTI

 

 

Education Minister grants Rs 2 Cr for fire ravaged DEM Hr School

CM concerned at frequent fire mishaps

ITANAGAR, Jan 18:  Expressing deep concern over the fire mishap that devoured seven rooms of Daying Ering Higher Secondary School, Pasighat, Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has directed East Siang district administration to assess the losses incurred and submit the report soon for releasing the fund.

Taking serious note of repeated fire mishaps in various places in the state, the Chief Minister appealed to the public to be cautious while handling fire as such incidents could occur because of negligence during the dry season.

The Chief Minister also directed all the Deputy Commissioners to create mass awareness to take preventive measures to prevent such mishaps.  

Meanwhile, Education Minister Tapang Taloh has sanctioned Rs 2 crore for restructuring of the fire ravaged Daying Ering Memorial Higher Secondary School, Pasighat.

This was informed by PMC Chief Councilor Denong Tamuk today while chairing a coordination meeting at the auditorium of the said school which was attended by Advisor to Chief Minister, Bosiram Siram, ZPC Kaling Dai, DDSE Obuk Panor, Deputy Chief Councilor Kaling Darang and councilors, Principal, Vice Principal and teaching staff.

“Education Minister Taloh has sanctioned Rs. 2 crore immediately after hearing the news of fire mishap for reconstruction of a well planned RCC multi-storey building for the school,” Tamuk informed.

The Chief Councilor on behalf of the PMC assured to provide 20 chairs and a computer set as immediate relief. He also assured to launch a special cleanliness drive in the school premises to clear the bebris. Tamuk advised for provision of portable fire fighting equipments and other protective measures in all educational institutes and government installations.

He also did not rule out foul play in the mishap.

Advisor to Chief Minister Bosiram Siram sought magisterial inquiry before the cleanliness drive and urged the engineering departments to restore water and power supply in the school immediately to bring normalcy. Siram informed that he has held discussion with the DC and DDSE for immediate relief. He asked to prepare list of requirements and proposal and submit them to the DC so that the administration can forward it to the government.

The DC has assured to manage/ provide computer and printer, copier machine, some desks and benches etc at the earliest possible so that day to day classroom and office transactions are not hampered. Siram asked the DDSE to alert Chowkidars of all the schools to guard their respective institutions properly.

He handed over Rs. ten thousand cash to the Principal of the school.

ZPC Kaling Dai urged the education minister Taloh and former education minister Bosiram Siram to take up the issue at higher level so that fund is released immediately and construction work is started soon.

DDSE Obuk Panor,  who worked for a long in the said school as Principal, informed that the matter has already been discussed with the superior authorities and no stone would be left unturned for early restoration process. Advisory note on preventive measures to avoid such accident in future have already been given to all the school authorities, he further added.

Senior citizen and Ward-5 Councilor Kaling Doruk also donated Rs. ten thousand from his side to the school fund and urged the administration and municipality to clear all the debris. He further assured to pressurize the local MLA and administration for grant of immediate relief.

Deputy Chief Councilor Kaling Darang, who also happens to be the local councilor of the area, informed that MP Ninong Ering would visit the school on January 24 and extend all possible help from his discretionary fund.

Principal AP Rukbo and Vice-Principal Aroti Padung Pada also spoke and shared their views. DIPRO

 

 

Behave or face music: DC

ITANAGAR, Jan 18: The residents of the Capital Complex will have to maintain all existing dilapidated fencing, OBT houses, OBT structures around 50 mtrs along both sides of National Highway from Hollongi to Banderdewa in neat and tidy manner on or before Feb 1 next, failing which, the DM order of Jan 12 will come in force. Accordingly all such structures, fencings shall be dismantled without further notice and such vacated land shall be handed over to Itanagar Municipal Council for avenue plantations and beautification.

Itanagar Capital Complex, Deputy Commissioner, Mige Kamki informed this to the panchayat leaders in a meeting held today at the DC’s conference hall.

The meeting was held to seek support of the Panchayat Leaders within the Capital Complex for beautification and maintenance of assets along the National Highway and sector roads from Hollongi to Banderdewa in the rural areas of Capital Complex.

Panchayat leaders consisting of ZPM, Anchal and Gram Panchayat Members of Capital Complex attended the meeting.

The panchayat leaders expressed their views and concerns over handing over of 50 mtrs of land on either side of NH52A within the panchayat jurisdiction to Itanagar Municipal Council for avenue plantation. The panchayat leaders also assured that meetings at Gram Panchayat levels will be conducted in their respective jurisdiction for beautification and maintenance of assets along the National Highway in the rural areas of Itanagar Capital Complex.

Further, panchayat leaders also expressed their concern over collection of revenue by the Itanagar Municipal Council by issuing and renewal of trading licence in the rural areas in the Capital Complex. The DC assured that trading licences of rural areas in the Capital Complex is continued to be issued and renewed from the office of the Deputy Commissioner, Capital Complex.

 

 

Bike rally to sensitize public on ill-effects of drug abuse

ITANAGAR, Jan 18: The nine-day ‘Shantidoot Motorcycle Rally,” to sensitize the public about the ill-effects of drug abuse and ways for de-addiction through Rajyoga meditation, ended at Town Club Namsai on January 16.

The bike rally, which was flagged off by Lower Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner Ravi Dhavan on January 8, covered several schools, villages and public places.

The organizers distributed drugs education/information booklets, posters to the students and public throughout the rally.

Expressing serious concern over growing drugs menace, Khampti Chief C K Namchoom warned that the future of the community is at stake unless the drug problem is checked urgently.

We need a way to end this dangerous trend”, he said.

Retd. ADC Chow C Namchoom also felt the need of more NGOs and spiritual organizations coming forward to make the district free from the grip and danger of drugs.

Tewa Manpoong, councilor at Pali Vidhaya Pith Chowkham said, “We are working hard and have rehabilitated 20 addicts in December 2015 and 100 more are in the process of rehabilitation. The Councilor, however, rued the lack of fund and delay in releasing fund by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India.

Director of PBIVV Tinsukia Rajyogini Satyawati stressed on the need of spiritual education to the addicts to develop their will power, for a stress-free and healthy life. A total of 29 youths, including in-charge of Roing PBIVV B K Gitamoni, Tezu BK Jayanti, Namsai B K Beauty and members from Sadiya (Assam) joined the rally, which was organized under the aegis of Prajapita Brahmakumaris Iswariya Vishwa Vidhalaya (PBIVV).

 

 

Local public boycott Dhemaji Utsav

ITANAGAR, Jan 18: The local public of Kangku circle boycotted the 3rd Dhemaji Utsav held from January 7 to 10 last. They have been opposing the Utsav saying that the venue falls under Arunachal territory.

In a representative and complaint lodged with the West Siang DC, they alleged that the venue was forcefully selected even after repeated opposition from the local public and without taking prior permission from Arunachal government.

It is violation of standing order of the Supreme Court to maintain status quo, they said further claiming that the selection of venue within Arunachal territory was an act of provocation.

Further claiming that by organizing such events, there have been earlier attempts to encroach into Arunachal land, they have sought early demarcation of boundary as per the report submitted by Local Commission, Supreme Court of India.

 

 

15 selected for next round of Dance Arunachal Dance

ITANAGAR, Jan 18: The Dance Arunachal Dance elimination round started with 15 contestants selected out of 40 from the different parts of the Capital Complex yesterday at Siddharta Hall, Itanagar.

Speaking in the event, Upper Subansiri District Zila Parishad, Chairperson, Susil Nalo said that the organising of such event will showcase the hidden talents among the young boys and girls of the state.

Organising committee chairman Nanu Nuk informed that the final round would be a contest between five contestants who will perform for the title of ‘Dance Arunachal Dance’. The title winner will get participation at the national level in ‘Dance India Dance’ event. The event is being organised by Orphan Life, an NGO.

 

 

Team Country FC defeats Tawang HSS in inaugural match of CM’s Trophy

TAWANG, Jan 18: Country FC defeated Tawang Higher Secondary School team by 2 goals in football while, Khandro Dawa Zangmo lost to Humanity Group in volleyball during the  inaugural matches of the Third Edition for Chief Ministers Trophy for Football and Volleyball (men and women), which began at High Altitude Stadium here today.

During the inaugural function, which was attended by Tawang DC Duly Kamduk and various HoDs, ZPC Jambey Tashi lauded the efforts of DSO and advised the participants to maintain the spirit of sportsmanship.

Later, a district-level committee meeting was also under the chairmanship of the DC for implementation of Jal Kranti Abhiyan, a scheme under the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, GoI. As per the scheme, which aims at consolidating water conservation and management, two Jal Grams/villages are to be selected from each district.

While emphasizing on proper selection of villages, the DC cited acute scarcity of water as the main criteria. He informed that an integrated water security plan, water conservation, water management and allied activities shall be undertaken to ensure optimum and sustainable utilization of water. He further urged the WRD EE, Member secretary of the Committee to ensure constitution of block level committee and submission of block-wise nominations at the earliest for onward action. (DIPRO)

 

 

Training on honey bee keeping

ITANAGAR, Jan 18: A training on honey bee keeping (Apiculture) was conducted by Arunachal Pradesh Bee and Honey Mission under the Department of Agriculture, GoAP, at Nampong recently.

Progressive farmers from Changlang district and local farmers, SHG members attended the training.

Balung Mengu, District Agriculture Officer, D. Changmi, Assistant Director, Industries and Dr.N Kumars, Senior Scientist, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, along with his team of Subject Matter Specialists, and national awardee and private sector Bee farming operator in North East Leela Dutta, Proprietor, M/s. C. K Udyog, Jorhat, participated and delivered lecture on the importance of bee keeping and the important role played by it in rural economy.

Techi Taura, ADO, Directorate of Agriculture, Naharlagun and in-charge of ABHM, Changlang district briefed about the ongoing ABHM stage and took review of each circle of the district. He suggested the bee farmers to get their Apiary registered as per the directives of National Bee Board (NBB) under ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare to avail various facilities for bee farming. Forms for registration under NBB were distributed to the attending field functionaries to facilitate the farmers to fill the form for onward submission.

Former Minister Komoli Mosang, Chairperson, R.K Mossang Memorial Society, Jairampur, who attended the training along with her team members, requested the Agriculture Department, especially KVK Jairampur to back ABHM with more such training to the farmer.

Bee keeping equipments, bee boxes, few colonies of Apis Cerana and Apis mellifero were distributed to the attending SHGs members and farmers.

The Apis mellifero has been introduced for the first time in the district on trial basis while Apis cerono is native spepies of Arunachal Pradesh.

 

 

District level CM’s Trophy

KOLORIANG, Jan 18:  The men and women’s volleyball teams and men’s football team from Koloriang will represent Kurung Kumey in the state level Chief Minister’s Trophy on football and volleyball. Nyapin will represent the district in women’s football.

Koloriang defeated Nyapin 4-2 through penalty shootout in men’s football final while the Nyapin defeated Koloriang 2-0 in women’s football final of the district level competitions which concluded at Sangram general ground on Sunday.

The men’s volleyball team from Koloriang defeated Nyapin in 3-2 sets (25-10, 25-20, 25-23) while the women team from Koloriang beat the same opponents Nyapin 25-23, 25-18 and 25-19 in women’s volleyball final.

Attending the closing function, Kurung Kumey Deputy Commissioner Mamata Riba exhorted  the youth of the district to take full benefits of the Chief Minister’s various flagship programmes for youth development, like Chief Ministers Trophy on Sports, talent award programme, skill development programmme, agriculture mechanization programmme, mission mode programme on tea and rubber, universal health insurance scheme,.

The Deputy Commissioner advised the players of the winning teams to exhibit their talents and maintain sportsman spirit while representing the district at the state level tournament.

Nangram Palo and Tadar Yami were adjudged as the best football players in men and women category respectively.

Bamang Tadap and Bamang Ana were declared as best man and woman volleyball players respectively.

Cash prizes along with certificates and trophies were given to the winners.  DIPRO

 

 

Complaint against HM and PSs

ITANAGAR, Jan 18: Seven organizations including United Organization of Arunachal Pradesh and Arunachal Students’ Federation among others have sought arrest of Home Minister Tanga Byaling and Parliamentary Secretaries Nikh Kamin and Pani Taram for staging protest outside Raj Bhawan on January 14 last and violating section 144 CrPC promulgated by the Magistrate.

In their first information report to the Principal Secretary, Home, they also wanted action against DC Mige Kamki alleging that he willfully avoided deployment of magistrate and adequate police force despite prior intelligence information.

 

 

DC convenes meeting on National Voters’ Day

YUPIA, Jan 18: Papum Pare DC-cum-DEO Tai Kaye convened a meeting at his Conference hall here today to discuss about the celebration of the ensuing National Voters’ Day (NVD) to be held on Jan 25 next.

Underscoring the importance of the NVD, the DC-cum-DEO instructed all administrative officers-cum-EROs/AEROs to observe the National Voters Day like previous years.   

ERO (Hq) Shania Mize also urged upon all the election officers to spread awareness among people regarding electoral system and importance of electoral participation.

Young voters and nominated best BLOs along side with students who are winners of essay writing competition will also be felicitated on the Day. (DIPRO)

 

 

Results of APTET-2015 declared

ITANAGAR, Jan 18: The results of Arunachal Pradesh Teacher Eligibility Tests (APTET)-2015 conducted yesterday have been declared today. The qualifying marks for APST and non-APST candidates are 55% (82 marks in aggregate) and 60% (90 marks in aggregate) respectively. The results are available on website ‘www.deeap.online’, according to an official release.

Qualified candidates have been suggested to submit their documents of academic qualification (attested copy) for verification to the APTET Cell of the Directorate of Elementary Education latest by January 31, 2016 for issuance of mark sheet/certificate.

 

 

Health camps conducted NMMU

SEPPA, Jan 18: The District Health Society, East Kameng has organised health camps under NMMU in Pipu circle.

The awareness meetings were followed by health check-ups in which a total of 210 patients were treated and given free medicines, while ANC check up and immunization was also done in the camps. The camps were held at Pipu and ended at Kote.

During the camps, awareness on major health indicators were given by DRCHO, Dr. K. Lapung and Dr. K. Sopin on Antenatal Care, institutional delivery, exclusive breast feeding, immunization of children and pregnant women, various methods of family planning services and on general health and hygiene, the objectives and importance of IPPI were also highlighted during the health camps.

Among others SMO SG, Dr. S.K Suman, Dr. Nima Bodi, paramedical staff and ASHAs participated in the camps.

 

 

Union writes to CS

ITANAGAR, Jan 18: Claiming that the TFC grants for the financial year 2014-15 has been sanctioned and that the work is going to be executed shortly, the Arunachal Anti-Corruption Union (AACU) has requested that works be implemented as per action plan. It wrote to the chief secretary in this regard.

 

 

Org provides relief to fire victims

ITANAGAR, Jan 18:  All Arunachal Pradesh Disaster Management Relief Welfare Organisation (AAPDMRWO) visited the January 14 fire victims at Nirjuli and provided utensils and blankets to them.

The organisation strongly appealed to the concern authority for providing special package to the victims and assessment of properties lost or damaged in the fire.

Taking strong note of the fire incident at DEM Higher Secondary School, Pasighat, the organization appealed to the education minister and concern authority to immediately construct the school building so that the students do not suffer.

It also appealed to all the ministers, parliamentary secretaries, and MLAs, chairmen and students leaders to provide assistance to the school.

 

 

IPPI 2016 conducted  in West Siang

AALO, Jan 18: The first round of IPPI 2016 was conducted across West Siang district on Jan 17.

More than 280 Polio booths were set up with a target to immunize 10,500 children of 0-5 years of age across the district.

At Aalo, APWW Aalo unit, president, Marbom Bagra inaugurated the polio drops administration to children in presence of government officials and NGO members at General Hospital Aalo under the supervision of DFWO, Dr. Kengo Ori, Aalo. DIPRO

 

 

 

 

Osteoarthritis common cause of pain and disability in old age

[ Dr. Amber Anand ]

[ Dr. Marpu Kamsi ]

Osteoarthritis is also known as degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease. Osteoarthritis, is the most common form of arthritis caused by inflammation, breakdown, and the eventual loss of cartilage in the joints - the cartilage wears down over time.

Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease; signs and symptoms gradually worsen over time. There is no cure. However, the therapies may help with reducing pain and swelling (inflammation), as well as keeping the patient mobile and active.

Osteoarthritis may affect any joint of the body. But it is seen mainly in the weight bearing joints like hip, knee, lower back & neck. Other joints may include hand, shoulder, ankle etc.

Characteristics of Osteoarthritis:

1. Bony growths:  New bony growths develop around the edge of joints.

2. It damages cartilage: Cartilage is the part of the joint that cushions the ends of the bones and allows easy movement of joints.

3. Synovitis: There is mild inflammation of the tissues around the joints.

Osteoarthritis is more common among females than males, especially after the age of 50 years. Most commonly, it develops in people aged over 40. Younger people may also be affected; usually after an injury or as a result of another joint condition.

In osteoarthritis there is degeneration of the joint structures primarily involving damage to the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones. The main function of cartilage is to help the joints glide and move smoothly. In osteoarthritis the cartilage becomes thinner and rougher making it more susceptible to damage from injury. In order to compensate the loss of cartilage and changes in joint function, the body begins to remodel the bone in an attempt to restore stability. The bone remodeling can result into undesirable bony growths to develop which may misshapen the joint if the bony growth is excessive.

Primary and Secondary Osteoarthritis:

For primary osteoarthritis the exact cause is not known. It is considered as age related wear and tear arthritis. People tend to develop this kind of arthritis around 50 - 60 years of age. Being associated with the aging, the longer you use the joints the more likely you are to develop this form of arthritis. Experts suggest that if we live long enough, we will get this type of osteoarthritis to some extent whether it is very mild or more severe.

On the other hand, secondary osteoarthritis is thought to be caused by other factors such as an injury to articulating structures of the joint, an effect of obesity, genetics, inactivity or other disease.

An injury: If there is a fracture of the bone on the articulating area, you are more likely to later develop osteoarthritis in that joint, and experience osteoarthritis at a younger age than those who have primary osteoarthritis.

Obesity: Obesity is a big factor. Extra weight that bears down on the joints day in and day out can cause the joint to wear away faster. The Arthritis Foundation suggests that to every extra pound you gain adds three pounds of pressure to your knees and six pounds of pressure to your hips.

Inactivity & Sedentary Lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle leads to weight gain, which can ultimately lead to osteoarthritis. Also, if you’re inactive, you will have weaker muscles and tendons that surround the joint. Strong muscles help keep joints properly aligned and stable.

Genetics: There are certain gene that put you at higher risk for osteoarthritis. Experts have found that arthritis of the hands tends to have a genetic link among women. Also the osteoarthritis of knee and hip also seems to run in families.

Other disease: Diseases that cause inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, etc can increase your risk of getting osteoarthritis later in life.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis:

The symptoms of osteoarthritis can develop gradually or suddenly depending upon the cause and as osteoarthritis is most often a chronic disease, the symptoms may come and go or it may persist over time. There are four key warning signs of Osteoarthritis:

Pain: Pain from osteoarthritis can be constant or it may come and go. It may also be isolated to one joint or with other joint.

Swelling: Swelling from osteoarthritis is seen around the joint. The swelling causes the skin over the joint to become swollen, red and warmth.

Stiffness: Most people with osteoarthritis complains of early morning stiffness. Difficulty in moving the joint in the morning while getting up from bed which gradually reduces over time.

Restricted Movement: Due to the stiffness,  the movement gets restricted. And in severe case due to osteophyte( bony growth or spur) formation, the patient may also complaints of crepitus or crackling sound while moving the joint. And at later stage, the movement can be totally restricted due to bone fusion.

Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis:

Obesity: The more is the weight, the more is the stress on the weight bearing joints.

Sedentary Lifestyle:  Lack of physical activity and sedentary life style leads to weaker muscles and tendons. Weaker muscle and tendons leads to lesser stability of the joint and more stress on the joint cartilage.

Previous Injury: Previously injured joint structures makes it more susceptible to develop osteoarthritis.

Family History: If someone in the family (parents)  has a history of osteoarthritis, the children are more predisposed to develop osteoarthritis.

Old Age: People older than 50 years of age are more predisposed to develop osteoarthritis due to normal degeneration and wear & tear of the cartilage due to the aging process.

Gender: Females are more affected as compared to males.

Diagnosis:

The diagnosis of osteoarthritis can be easily made out with the help of radiological investigations.

X Ray: It may reveal that there is reduction in the joint space, formation of osteophytes (new bone growth or spur), loose bodies- bone or catilage may break down and float in the synovial. In later stages the joint deformity can also be made out.

CT Scan & MRI: It can be done to rule out the exact extent and severity of the condition and what all structures are being affected.

Blood Test: Blood test are not specific, it is mainly done to rule out other causes of osteoarthritis.

Arthroscopy: Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure, carried out by making a small incision into the affected joint, then a tube called arthroscope is inserted into the joint. The arthroscope has a small camera and a light that allows the surgeon to have the insight of the joint.

Treatment for Osteoarthritis:

Treatment of osteoarthritis varies from patient to patient as the severity of the condition varies from person to person and the stage. Osteoarthritis can be treated medically or surgically along with the physiotherapy. Physiotherapy forms an integral part of the rehabilitation both in early and late stages of osteoarthritis and even after surgery.

Medical: Medication can help in reducing pain and inflammation. Drugs like acetaminophen and codeine can be given to treat severe pain. Tropical pain relievers like cream, ointment or sprays can also be applied to the area. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also be given to reduce pain and inflammation. Corticosteroids like prednisolone can be given to reduce pain and inflammation and also to slow down joint damage caused by osteoarthritis. In adjunct to medical treatment, physiotherapy treatment is recommended.

Surgical: Individuals with Osteoarthritis suffer from permanent joint damage, and then the surgical intervention may be required. Osteotomy is preferred, if patient is still young and active and has knee or hip osteoarthritis, he may be able to have an osteotomy, or joint-preserving surgery. By cutting and removing a section of the bone, this procedure improves joint alignment and stability so you can delay having joint replacement surgery. The severely damaged joint are surgically removed and replaced plastic and metal implants called prosthesis. The most commonly replaced joints are hip and knee joint. The replacement can be either total or partial joint replacement depending upon the damage already caused to the joint.

In total joint replacement both the articulating structures are replaced with the artificial metalic implant. On the other hand in partial joint replacement either of the articulating structure or a part of it is replaced with the artificial one. Most commonly performed joint replacement surgeries are Total Knee Replacement and Total Hip Replacement. Post surgical Physiotherapy Rehabilitation is recommended following any joint replacement surgery.

Physiotherapy: The aim of physiotherapy treatment is to prevent the further progression of the disease as well as reducing the sign and symptoms of the Osteoarthritis, i.e. pain, inflammation, stiffness and restricted range of motion of the joint. Researchers have found out that if the patient is overweight, a dietary plan can be created to reduce the stress of excess weight on supporting joints of the back, legs and feet. So weight loss is very important in reducing the stress on the joints. Physiotherapy treatment includes:

Cold Therapy: Cold compression or Ice packs can be used. It reduces pain and swelling.

Hot Fermentation: Application of moist heat reduces the pain, stiffness, relaxes the muscles and increases the blood flow to the joint.

Posture Correction: Using correct postural techniques helps in maintaining good posture, thereby reducing the stress on the joints and it also allows the body weight to be equally distributed to the joints.

Walking Aids & Braces: Walking aids and braces can be prescribed to the patient to assist them ambulate properly and prevent further progression of joint deformities as it reduces the stress on the joints and to avoid any imbalance between the groups of muscles working around the joint.

Strengthening Exercise: Exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint. Stronger the muscle lesser the chances of injury and better is the stability of the joint.

TENS: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation can be given to reduce pain and swelling.

Ultrasound Therapy: Therapeutic ultrasound therapy can be given to the patient to reduce pain, swelling and enhance tissue healing. (The contributors are Consultant Physiotherapist, Healing Hands)

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January  19

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Editorial

 

 

 

Engage rebel groups in dialogue process

When BJP government came to power at centre, there was lot of hope that North East region will reap the benefit of development process promised by them. However it’s going to be almost 2 years since Narendar Modi led government came to power at centre but situation has not changed much. Militancy which has become biggest obstacle in the developmental process is still thriving in the region. Government has failed to bring out a proper policy to tackle the insurgency problem. Even though last year central government signed a historic peace agreement with NSCN (IM), peace continuous to elude the region.  For some strange reason barring NSCN (IM) central government has not initiated any concrete efforts to bring rebel group operating in the region to the negotiation table.

 To ensure faster development first of all they should initiate dialogue process with all the rebel groups. Peace is the most important requisite to bring development in the NE region. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi gears up for his 2 days visit to Northeastern states starting tomorrow, one can only hope that he will take care of all these issues. Ahead of his visit, Modi today said his government is working for all round development of the region. In a series of tweets, Mr Modi said he will leave no stone unturned to fulfill aspirations of Northeast. It is really heartening to hear that Modi is serious about turning things. Besides giving further boost to the developmental process, Modi government should try to engage the various rebel groups. Unless peace returns, situation will not change in the region.

 

 

 

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Readers’ Forum

 

 

 

Accept gracefully the wish of the MLAs

Dear Editor,

As we know India is a democratic country which means “Government of the people, by the people, for the people.” We also know in our country, elections are held every 5 years and people elect their representatives as per their conscience and best judgment. Finally, the party having majority in the Assembly forms the Government, becoming the People’s Government. Now the most pertinent question is, who chooses or elects the Chief Minister and Speaker of the Assembly? We believe that this is exclusive power of the MLAs to elect them. So, the question of the common people’s involvement in choosing the duo does not arise here. It’s a shame all, being the CM & the Speaker, they lost the confidence of the Members of the House, and both of them went to the court in search of Hon’ble MLAs. Is there any Hon’ble MLA in the court to support? If this practice is to be continued than time has come to file a lawsuit against the voters in their respective constituencies by those who lost election?

Interestingly now there is crisis of vehicle tyres in every workshop In the Capital Complex, being forcibly taken by the Congress leaders for burning and recreational purposes on national highway.

Secondly, we are entering into the age of civilization i.e. 21st century where we always advocate for preservation of our culture and tradition including the traditionally prestigious animal “the Mithun” whose image has been lowered down to such a level that it is beyond redemption. Is the Raj Bhavan a suitable place for Mithun sacrifice? Definitely not! If the Governor has accepted to make family relations with Nabam Tuki & Nabam Rebia, as per our Nyishi society Marriage system, then only it is accepted subject to the approval of the Government to sacrifice a Mithun in the vicinity of the Raj Bhavan.

Education to women means education to whole family. But in the recent series of protests it is very unfortunate to see that women were used as a weapon to save their chair. We failed to understand the bizarre activities of today’s women who made their private parts as source of income and sold it for such purpose. We urged the Government to make a policy or Act to implement women’s naked body in latter and spirit.

Road blockage: it is the duty of the Government to see that the road blockage is not done by the so called organizations, associations, etc. that people are safe in the hands of the Government. But, sadly in Arunachal Pradesh it is just the opposite.

This is an ardent appeal to the “NES” and “ANSU” to remain neutral in these crucial times where the State is going through political turmoil. Since we believe NES and ANSU is the community based organizations which is a non-political registered society and thereby, requested to respect the  MLA’s decision. We also request both the organization not to misguide our Nyishi youths for someone’s individual interest.

Regarding Kalikho Pul’s audio clip, whom did he malign, what some of our people are doing has been highlighted by him. We must accept the amount of mistake being done by some section of our community. However, let us be clear that who are the persons in our community who are tarnishing the image of the society. And please do not generalize all the Nyishi, since there are lots of refined Nyishi in the community.

To epitomize, let the Government run as per the wish of the people’s representatives, whom we have elected. The Government should avail the confidence of the MLAs in running the Government and not in the form of violence and seek justice from the court. This is not the way of functioning of Government in democratic country like India.

Yours,

Taba Tadap

Banares Hindu University

 

 

 

Declare results

Dear Editor,

With deep pain and in depressed state, I would like to urge the Arunachal Pradesh Public Commission to declare the APPSCE mains result as soon as possible as it has already taken 3 years to conduct this exam.

It has already been almost 6 months since we wrote the mains paper but still there is no communication from the commission.

I am personally in the state of depression with no hope but I wish that Commission come out with the result as soon possible and at least try to regain its lost glory by being fair and responsive to our queries!

Yours,

Depressed candidate

 

 

 

Continuous animal abuse for cultural and religious practices

Dear Editor,

Apropos to the nationwide controversy about allowing highly debated bull run practise in Tamil Nadu , it is time to say that the world’s largest democracy need to show maturity in demonstrating that they are serious enough in protecting animal rights like other progressive democracies across the globe. In this new millennium one wonders how people in some parts of the nation could support animal abuse in the name of age-old socio-cultural practices like Jallikattu.

Such practices are detrimental to international rules and regulations and are looked upon across the world as examples of outright animal abuse. Political appeasement should not come in the way of harassing and bullying defenseless animals in the name of religious and cultural practices and as a source of entertainment in the 21st century. The whole world is watching us and if we even fail to secure and protect some animals what are we left with to deliver to the rest of the world? The Indian judiciary has positively stepped forward in the right direction staying the practise with  exemplary guidelines.

Now the Supreme Court  needs  to completely ban such activities involving abuse of animals across the nation. The tradition of donating and keeping elephants in South Indian temples should also be brought under scanner as this is also not acceptable under the wildlife regulations of the country; yet widely practiced on the basis of religious superstitions.

I urge the people of Southern India to seriously introspecting these socio-cultural practices of outright animal abuses and come forward as global citizens to eradicate them; and demonstrate to the world that they care for defenseless animals and would not allow their continuous abuse in the name of social, cultural and religious practices or for so called entertainment.

Yours,

Saikat Kumar Basu

Lethbridge AB

Canada