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2017

June 10

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Centre committed to development of tribal people: Jual Oram

RGU-AITS talk on Re-examining Tribal Development

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram has said that centre is committed to the development of tribal communities across the country. He said this while giving a special lecture on 'Re-examining Tribal Development in the Face of Evolving Challenges' at Rono Hills which was organized by the Arunachal Institute of Tribal Studies (AITS), Rajiv Gandhi University.

Speaking on various policies and programme under his ministry, Oram said that situations of the tribal people in terms of access to health, education and other infrastructure has improved as the center is giving extra attention to it.

Oram, however said that under the influence of westernization, tribal people are losing their roots as he emphasized on the need to protect tribal languages. He said that with imposition and acceptance of Hindi and English languages, most tribal communities do not speak their own languages. He further said that indigenous knowledge system and resource management by the tribal people are excellent as he asked the AITS to further work for documenting tribal languages and culture.

The Minister further said that centre is willing to establish tribal research institute.

Speaking on the issue of Chakma and Hajong refugees and autonomous district councils, he said that it was for state government to decide on the issues.

The Minister further congratulated the AITS for organizing the event stating that problems faced by the tribals are hardly discussed by anyone, including the media.

While addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor Prof. Tamo Mibang said that roadmap for development of the tribal communities needs to be relooked into.

He said that though there are many policies for the welfare of the tribal, the main concern is the proper implementation of these policies. He further said that there was need to relook into provisions of Schedule 5-6 of the Constitution as it has not given the desired result. He further spoke on the need to respect the tribal ownership of land, forest and other natural resources while making use of the available resources by the tribals themselves.

Prof. Mibang further added that time has come to do away with culture of dependency. While stating that Arunachal needs special care from the centre, he opined that tribal people have to develop work culture to overcome dependency on centre for all its needs.

The Director of AITS Dr. S. Simon John, Dr. Jumyir Basar and Lisa Lomdak, faulty members also spoke during the occasion.

NSCN-K chief Khaplang dead

KOHIMA, Jun 9: Chairman of Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-K) S S Khaplang died tonight at Takka in Kachin state of Myanmar at the age of 77.

Official sources said that the leader of the Naga insurgent group who had been ailing for quite sometime, died following a cardiac arrest.

Khaplang was a Hemi Naga from Myanmar and was based mostly in that country where the outfit maintains several camps.

Since 1980s, the outfit has engaged in subversive activities, including attacks on security forces, extortion and looting.

Born in April 1940 in Waktham village, east of Myanmars Pangsau Pass, Khaplang joined the Naga nationalist movement as early as 1964 and was one of the key people in the formation of the NSCN.

However, Khaplang split and formed his own group NSCN(K) in 1988.

He formed the group following differences with the NSCN (IM) leaders Isak Chishi Swu and Thuingaleng Muivah. Swu died in June 2016 in a Delhi hospital.

Khaplang also entered into a ceasefire with the central government in 1997 but abrogated it on March 28, 2015.

Meanwhile, Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) Secretary General Neingulo Krome said the news of Khaplangs sudden demise has come as a "rude shock".

This was so especially at a time when the Naga people are extremely in need of elderly and experienced wisdom of their national movement leaders, to set right the course of the Naga destiny, which is being misinterpreted and re-interpreted in the present day scenario of internal conflicts, he said.

"We will always treasure and cherish his commitment to do what the upcoming Naga generation wants as the Naga national movement is for the well being of future Naga generation who should live in dignity and peace," he said in his condolence message.

There was no immediate reaction from the rebel group or key tribal bodies including Naga Hoho and Naga Mothers Association. PTI

Tawang Committee sends report to Govt rejecting NHPC projects

[ Tongam Rina ]

ITANAGAR, June 9: Following the Feb 14 meeting which overwhelming opposed the National Hydro Power Corporations projects in Tawang, a formal closure report has been sent to the government of Arunachal Pradesh rejecting 600 (3 x 200 MW)Mega Watt Tawang Phase-I and 800 MW (4 x 200 MW) Tawang Phase-II.

A committee was formed under Thegtse Rinpoche, Padma Shree to prepare a document to finalise the outcome of the meeting to be sent to the government after the Feb 14 meeting.

The closure report prepared under the chairmanship of Thegtse Rinpoche has been sent to the state government on June 5 stating that "after elaborate discussion and listening to the merits and demerits of the Hydro Power Projects in Tawang district and resolutions by villagers of the affected villages, the Committee resolves to reject and direct the closure of the NHPC projects in Tawang district immediately".

Though the formal information to the government regarding the rejection of the NHPC Tawang Phase I and II was given only on June 5 last, the decision was taken in Feb 14 during a meeting called by the DC Sang Phuntsok to discuss public concerns pertaining to the NHPC projects.

The meeting was attended by the Lumla MLA Jambey Tashi and Tawang MLA Tsering Tashi, monks, members of Save Mon Region Federation (SMRF), spearheading a movement opposing the large hydro power projects in the districts, Panchayat leaders and affected villagers.

What is significant is that apart from SMRF, MLAs Jambey Tashi and Tsering Tashi, the Zila Parishad Chairperson Jambey Tsering, representatives from Tawang Monastery are the signatories to the closure report sent to the government.

However, it remains to be seen what step will be taken by the state government which is keen to go ahead with hydro power projects in the state and the NHPC which has already given Rs 3750 Lakhs (37.5 crores) each for Tawang I and II as upfront payment to the Arunachal government in 2008.

During the Feb 14 meeting, President, SMRF Lama Lobsang Phuntsok submitted a report to the MLAs containing the signatures of the land owners who have refused the NHPC projects in Tawang.

The SMRF have for long accused the NHPC of fraudulently taking the signatures of the villagers agreeing to the Tawang projects during the Gram Sabha meetings.

The Gram Sabhas conducted by the people, however have been recorded by the SMRF in which majority of the participants of 27 villages and Tawang Monastery have said no to these projects.

As part of the forest clearance process under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, it is mandatory to seek prior consent of the concerned Gram Sabhas under the Scheduled Tribes (and Other Forest Dwellers) Recognition of Forest Rights Act 2006. The Supreme Court of India has also emphasized the importance of Gram Sabha consent in its landmark judgment related to the Vedanta mine in Odisha.

Tawang has witnessed severe violence as it erupted against mega power projects with Army called in last year.

On May 2 last year, two people had died when police fired at protestors demanding the release of Lama Lobsang Gyatso, General Secretary of the SMRF, at the forefront of anti-hydro power movement in Mon Region, from Police custody.

At least seven were seriously injured because of the indiscriminate police firing. One the injured remains in hospital.

21 years old Nyima Wangdi, a monk from the Tawang Monastery and 31 years old Tsering Tempa from Jangda village were shot dead on the spot by the police.

In April 2016, the National Green Tribunal had suspended the environmental clearance given to the proposed 780 MW hydropower project promoted by the Bhilwara group which subsequently led to the state govt crack down on anti dam protestors.

Meanwhile, in May 16, the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC ) while discussing the state government's proposal to divert 187.20 hectares of forest land had deferred the forest clearance of 600 MW Tawang-1 stating that there was need for further study. The FAC decision was based on Bombay Natural History Society's representation which stated that Tawang has very high in biodiversity having several critically endangered species and that the project would significantly disturb the black-necked cranes which visits the valley as their wintering site.

Preliminary study suggests that about 2 lakhs trees will be affected impacting 262.11 hectares of land. The project cost is estimated at close to Rs five thousand crores.

There are eleven proposed hydropower projects in the ecologically sensitive Tawang River Basin totaling 2802.20 MW capacity with Tawang-II being the biggest.

Congress protests ban on cow slaughter

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: Days after the Centre put a nationwide regulatory ban on sales of cattle for slaughter, the Arunachal Pradesh Youth Congress (APYC), supported by other Congress frontal wings, staged strong protests against the order by taking out a rally from Akashdeep in Ganga, Itanagar to the Raj Bhavan.

However, the protesters were stopped midway near Nyokum Lapang Ground by the police, and a few representatives from the party were allowed to accompany the magistrate to submit a memorandum to the Governor against the order.

Speaking against the gazette notification of May 23, 2017 from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, APYC President Jikke Tako, after submitting the memorandum, said that the government at the Centre neglected tribal states like Arunachal Pradesh when imposing the ban, knowing very well that the cultures and traditions followed by the indigenous tribes of the state make use of cattle for various religious and important ceremonies.

"We revere animals, especially the Mithun, but they are rooted to our culture and traditions and they are an important part of our identity."

"We do not eat the staple diet of the majority of Indians; we are largely a meat-consuming state and putting a ban on cattle slaughter would amount to imposing a ban on our food habits. The government cannot take our eating rights away. The government is not governing us, it is dictating us. This will not be tolerated either by the Congress, or by the entire people of the state", said Tako.

Although the Centre has not put a ban on eating beef, Indian Youth Congress North East In-charge, Sarifa Rahman said that the ban on cattle slaughter has affected farmers.

"I would like to remind Narendra Modi that he is the Prime Minister of the country, and not a master chef judge, who decides what people are allowed to cook in their homes. Instead he should be concentrating on whether poor people are getting enough to eat. Provide adequate food first, and then tell us what to eat or what not to eat."

"Also, what special schemes have the Prime Minister, MoS (Home) Kiren Rijiju and Chief Minister Pema Khandu brought to Arunachal Pradesh in the past three years that they are now trying to snatch away the state's indigenous identity?"

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (regulation of Livestock Markets) Rules, 2017 had put a nationwide ban on sale of cattle for slaughter with a gazette notification of May 23, 2017.

The second largest beef exporter in the world, India accounts for 20 percent of all the beef exported around the world. India also accounts for 13 percent of the leather trade in the world market. There were already around 18 states in India that banned slaughter of cattle, while three states require permits for slaughter. The seven Northeast states of India allow cattle slaughter.

The ban is expected to benefit countries like Australia and Brazil, as the removal of 20 percent of export beef from the market would lead to enormous shortages.

The tricky regulatory law on cattle slaughter is expected to ultimately affect consuming beef as well, which is causing mass protests across the country, with even one of the BJP district presidents of Garo Hills in Meghalaya, resigning from the party to protest the BJP's stand on beef.

CM keen to collaborate with UK on youth development

British Council’s Alan Gemmell in Itanagar

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed keen interest to join hands with the United Kingdom to groom and hone the talent of youths in Arunachal in the field of education, music, culture and sports.

He said this in a meeting with the British Council Director Alan Gemmell and stated that such cooperation will prepare the youths of the state for 21st century skills and improve their employability level.

The Chief Minister requested the UK Government representatives to come up with training programmes for school students in subjects like English, Maths and Computer Science.

Gemmell informed that the Council's priority area being English language teaching said that they have developed new methodology to teach English at primary and middle level school.

He and his team members-Dr Debanjan Chakrabarti, Director, East India and Joydeep Bordoloi, Head English Partnerships, East India who had called on Chief Minister said that they are looking for ways to build collaborations with the Arunachal government on focus areas as suggested by the Chief Minister.

Gemmell informed that British Council has presence in several countries including India, and is keen to reach out to the North Eastern states particularly Arunachal.

Apart from education, the members informed that the Council promotes cultural and creative entrepreneurs partnering with local artistes through which they could promote Arunachal in UK.

They further informed that they partner with Trinity College, Oxford and Cambridge Universities for the programmes they offer to impart to the youths.

The Chief Minister assured that the state government will work out ways to avail the programmes being launched by the British Council through the DONER Ministry.

Minister for Art and Culture, Dr Mohesh Chai and Chief Secretary Shakuntala D Gamlin also attended the meeting where they further discussed on state's potential on tourism, horticulture and agriculture for the Council to intervene and help promote it.

Meanwhile, to get an overview of the needs of the state in the field of education, culture and music, the visiting members of The British Council held an interactive session with local artistes, event directors, journalists and representatives of the Department of Research and Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute (SRF&TI) on Friday.

During interaction, local filmmaker and artiste, Ashok Tajo Sonam opined that the Council has to keep in mind the diversity of the state when taking up any project. Sonam also called for maintaining indigenous culture and traditions of Arunachal Pradesh before heading for a modern and westernized approach.

On the education sector, the journalists placed the uphill task in front of the Council and highlighted the condition of government-run schools in the state and the lack of enthusiasm from all parties, including teachers, students and government officials, especially in rural areas.

The members of the British Council assured that they have a mechanism to streamline the education sector, using the internet or any source of fast communication available to them, which they claimed to have applied successfully in Bihar.

East India Director Dr Debanjan Chakrabarti informed that it took them nearly four years to train the teachers into being more enthusiastic about their profession and on ways to teach children in a manner that catches their attention.

"We do not limit ourselves to a 10 days or month-long training for teachers. It is a continuous process, and to achieve anything in its entirety, four years is not much if the state government extends cooperation", said British Council India Director, Gemmell, while adding that "When we managed to succeed in Bihar, we are hopeful that we can replicate the same in Arunachal".

Assistant Director of Research (Culture), R N Koley informed of the various ways in which the department is making efforts to document and archive information on Arunachal Pradesh, while SRF&TI Professor, Debashish Ghoshal said that there was much to be done to make people aware on careers in filmmaking. Ghoshal also said that the institute is offering a very reasonable fee, but the number of students is still lacking.

The artistes and event directors also informed of the monetary constraints that come along in their way of making a full-time career out of their professions, which acts as a deterrent for many to choose a profession of their liking, apart from government jobs.

The British Council assured that the needs of local youths and the indigenous aspects of the diverse tribes would be kept in mind before introducing or implementing projects in the state.

AAPSU takes up student scholarship issue

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: The members of All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) while taking note of the frequent concern raised by the student communities regarding delay in disbursement of Pre and Post matric scholarship to the APST students called on the Director of Social Justice & Empowerment and Tribal Affairs(SJETA) Department to get updates of the progress.

In the meeting, Director SJETA Yumlam Kaha informed that he has been pursuing the matter since many months and assured that the money would be released within two weeks and that by first week of July, it would be disbursed to the students.

He revealed that there are 22564 applicants in post matric and 2594 students in the pre matric scholarship and the department has existing amount of eight crore and fifty one lakh and the remaining amount of about 41, 43, 03,264 (forty one crore forty three thousand two hundred and sixty four only) has been assured to be released within two weeks.

AAPSU President Hawa Bagang stated that the Union understands the sentiments of the students and has been raising the issue; however, it is not a problem of the state machinery.

Since, the Department has assured to release the scholarship by July, he appealed the students to have patience and abstain from raising unnecessary hue and cry. Meanwhile AAPSU delegation lead by its president Hawa Bagang and General Secretary Tobom Dai met Union Tribal Affairs Minister, Jual Oram. AAPSU submitted two point memorandum drawing attention of minister towards scholarship and Chakma Hajong refugee issues.

Orgs allege IRBn and Police of drugs peddling

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: The reported involvement of men in uniform in drugs peddling and addiction caused grave concern among the conscious people, various organizations and students of Lohit.

Reportedly, police and IRBn jawans are found to be involved in drugs peddling.

"Unfortunately, it has come to our notice that police and IRBn personnel are into drug addiction and peddling. Since no one suspects the 'men in uniform', the deviants resort to unethical and unlawful activities of drug peddling," stated Cultural and Literary Society of Mishmi, the All Mishmi Women Welfare Society, All Mishmi Students' Union and District Students' Union, Lohit, in a joint memorandum to Lohit Deputy Commissioner.

They demanded that stringent action must be taken against the offenders as per the provisions under NDPS Act, and law enforcing agencies should refrain from being lenient to them.

"The Police Department needs to ensure that the men in khaki don't indulge in drug addiction. They ought to take measures to conduct regular blood test of the police personnel and in the event of drug dose detected in their body they should be terminated forthwith from service, to deter others from indulging in such unlawful activities," they demanded.

They also expressed serious concern over the prevalence of alcoholism amongst the students.

"The students are often seen consuming cigarettes, tobaccos and other intoxicants loitering near the pan ghumtis and shops during the school hours," the memorandum said and strongly urged the district administration to dissuade the prevalence of such unwanted activities by conducting sudden checking drives in shops located near the schools.

They also expressed concern over possibility of a rise in criminal activities with the easy accessibility from the neighboring states through the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge.

The bridge would inevitably facilitate the economic upliftment of the state. However, we can't rule out the possibility of the rise in criminal activities with the easy accessibility from the neighbouring states, the memorandum said, while citing instances of bike lifting incidents reported in the recent past.

Besides, cases of human trafficking activities have been a cause of major concern for the denizens of Lohit district, it said, and urged the Deputy Commissioner to pass an order instructing all the landlords and employers to verify the antecedents of their tenants and employees.

"They ought to ensure that the tenants and employees do not hold any criminal/dubious background or indulging in any immoral activities, which is abhorred by the society," added the memorandum.

HPDCAPL to be restructured

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: The Hydro Power Development Corporation of Arunachal Pradesh Limited (HPDCAPL) has decided to reform its present organizational structure for optimal utilization of its resources as well as make it a profit making SPSU Corporation.

For this, the Corporation would hire an expert consultant immediately for preparation and submission of organization restructuring report for further implementation.

The decision was taken during it 23rd Board of Director (BOD) meeting held on June 8 at the Conference Hall of Finance Department, Civil Secretariat here.

The meeting, presided over by Chairman HPDCAPL Tungri Effa, decided that HPDCAPL would take over some of mini or micro hydel projects installed and commissioned by APEDA and Department of Science and Technology for commercial exploitation.

The Corporation would also create a Skill Development Division to impart training to rural youths of the state under DDU-KVY Scheme and recruit/induct man power on need basis to cope the work demand.

The BOD meeting, which was attended by its Directors, Ashish Kundra, Commissioner (Planning, Finance, Power and Hydropower), Toko Onuj, Managing Director, HPDCAPL, Jummer Kamdak, CE (WZ & Monitoring), Okep Taying, joint Director (State Planning) representing Secretary Planning, GoAP, for the first time, unanimously voiced for development of a mechanism so that HPDCAPL is self sustenance and operational in its true sense as per the objectives of its MoA & AoA.

The Directors also discussed on 27 points main agenda put forward before BOD.

MVAC organizes rally demanding justice to late Pul

NAMSAI, Jun 9: Demanding justice for former chief minister Kalikho Pul, the Mere Vichaar Andolan Committee (MVAC) supported by Justice Seeking Forum by Mishmi Youth organized a peaceful rally at Namsai Town this morning.

Thousands of public and students from Tezu, Wakro and rest of Lohit district joined the rally from Namsai High Secondary School to Middle School at 10 AM.

The participants holding banners and posters reiterated the demands for initiating re-inquiry into the death of the former chief minister based on the FIR lodged by his three wives, immediate step down of chief minister Pema Khandu,

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein and Parliamentary Secretary (Tourism) Passang Dorjee Sona on moral ground and to ensure free and fair investigation.

They also demanded Sona to immediately return Rs 4 crore, which he allegedly took from Pul.

Osingso Pul, son of late Khaliko Pul, who also took part in the rally, said, "My father was a very brave man and had the courage to face any situation. But, politics has ruined our family and snatched our father from us."

"How far are we going to tolerate corruption and injustices in our peace loving state," he asked as he appealed all to stand united against any form of corruption.

I am not asking just for the sake of my father; but for the entire state," Osingso added.

Addressing the rally, MVAC convener Kaling Tasing lamented that police has neither registered the FIR of late Pul's wives nor investigated on the 60-pages 'Mere Vichaar' purportedly written by Pul before he died. Tasing demanded a SIT probe into the 60-page note.

We believe in BJP and its ideology for a corruption free society, he said and strongly urged the party leaderships both in the state and centre to remove the CM, the DCM and PD Sona from their respective posts.

MVAC will also organize similar rallies in all district headquarter of the State, he informed.

MVAC Spokesperson Tarh Atung while highlighting the contents of the "Mere Veechar" note, appealed to the youth to wake up and voice against corruption.

Atung said that state's development activities have almost come to a halt since the last four years due to political instability.

He also urged the central BJP Government, especially MoS Kiren Rijiju to take serious note on the issue.

DCM, Speaker inspect Assembly building auditorium

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: Deputy Chief Minister, Chowna Mein and Assembly Speaker Tenzing Norbu Thongdok has inspected the under-construction auditorium hall and landscaping in the Arunachal State Assembly Building complex here on Friday.

While inspecting the construction work, Mein asked the PWD Chief Engineer not to comprise with quality and complete the unfinished work within first week of July.

Thongdok urged the engineers to complete the landscaping and main gate works at the earliest to give the compound an aesthetic view. He also requested the PWD to carry out maintenance of the approach road to the Assembly building, foot path in both sides of the road with railing and also to renovate the damaged iron culvert at the junction near NH-415 at the earliest.

PWD Chief Engineer assured to complete the civil work of the Auditorium Hall by June 26 and other remaining work within the given time frame. He also assured to take up the maintenance of the approach road from NH-415 to the Assembly building.

The under-construction auditorium building has the sitting capacity of 500 persons and the building would be used as a multi-purpose hall.

Among others, Deputy Speaker Tumke Bagra, Parliamentary Secretary PWD, Techi Kaso, Commissioner PWD, Bilatee Pertin, Secretary Legislative Assembly, M. Lasa, Additional Secretary Legislative Assembly K. Habung and Chief Engineer, K. Wahge accompanied the Deputy Chief Minister. All the dignitaries thoroughly inspected various chambers of the Assembly building.

Meeting of EROs and AEROs held regarding ECI special drive

ZIRO, Jun 9: A meeting of Electoral Registration Officers (ERO), Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AERO) and political party representatives was convened in the office chamber of the District Election Officer, Kemo Lollen here on Friday, in connection with the special drive by Election Commissioner of India to enrol left out electors giving special focus on first time electors.

DEO, Kemo Lollen insisted on immediate appointment of Booth Level Agents (BLA) by political parties to avoid last minute hassles. 'These exercises are routinely carried out to ensure error and hassle free elections and needs active participation from all stakeholders', he added.

While informing that the special drive is an exercise to enrol left out voters in the age group of 18 to 21 years with 1st January, 2017 as the qualifying date, ERO and EAC, Lod Taker said that people born on or before 1st January 1998 can enrol during the special drive from July 1 to 31. Special campaigns will also be held on July 8 and 22 at each polling station, he said and informed that Annexure-4 dully attested by the Head of Education institutions can be submitted to the election office for students studying outside the state who cannot turn up for hearing.

He also urged the BLOs and BLAs to stress on submission of form-7, which relates to the removal of dead voters to avoid bugus voters in future.

Party representatives present also emphasized on the need for BLOs to work impartially and include house hold surveys of their polling station areas to identify and remove dead voters.

The meeting was also attended by ERO AC Boruah, AEROs Bengia Yakar, Dakli Gara, Tana Yaho and party representatives. (DIPRO)

Village welfare committee lodges complaint against forest officials

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: The Gogar Village Welfare Committee General Secretary has lodged an FIR at Likabali Police Station against the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Likabali and Range Forest Officer (RFO) for allegedly felling trees in Dipa Reserved Forest.

In his June 4 FIR, the village welfare committee General Secretary stated that trees were cut down illegally at the instruction of the DFO and the RFO on May 26 for the purpose of constructing a temporary bridge for a Church Prayer Center.

As a follow up to his earlier FIR, the general secretary again lodged a complaint with the OC (of Likabali Police Station), wherein he alleged that the DFO and the RFO have erased all evidences of tree felling by transporting away the logs from the scene/spot.

The FIR stated that the timbers were taken away in a truck (No:AR07-3051), where an Excavator (CASE, No: AR09B-1337) was also used to lift the logs. Allegedly, the vehicles were brought by a former BCCI President of Likabali and brother of the OC, Likabali PS.

Any attempt to destroy evidence is a crime and punishable offence under IPC, the GS stated and appealed to conduct a free and fair investigation into the case.

Field visit conducted to assess progress of agri. schemes

YUPIA, Jun 9: Field visits to various circles of Papum Pare district were conducted by a monitoring team comprising OSD to Minister of Agriculture Charu Tapio, Joint Director Agriculture Anong Lego, Assistant Director Agriculture Tare Kahi, ADOs Dolang Akum and Nabam Katung here recently to progress and achievement of various agriculture schemes being implemented in the district.

The team also interacted with the beneficiaries of various centrally sponsored and state sponsored schemes like RKVY, NFSM, NMSA and AEGP, CM Farm Mechanization Schemes etc implemented by Deputy Director of Agriculture Papum Pare district. (DIPRO)

IHHL construction at Sumssing village completed

YINGKIONG, Jun 9: Construction of 77 Individual House Hold Latrines (IHHL) have been recently completed for Sumsing village in Upper Siang district under Swachch Bharat Mission-Gramin by the PHE department.

During an awareness programme organized on the occasion which was at Community Hall, Sumsing on Thursday last, PHED AE, Gebook Burang appealed to the PRI members, GBs and general public to maintain the IHHLs.

ASM, Orik Paron also spoke on the occasion.

Hydro-power AE, Oni Ejing, PHED JE, Pisa Babum and Paniye Tuki, JE (PHED) also attended the programme as resource persons. (DIPRO)

On-line gas cylinder booking soon

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: The online booking of gas cylinder will be done through mobile by dialling at 9089024365 without going to gas agency and standing in a big queue said IOC DGM (Corporate Coordination) NE Region, Kolkata, Alok Singh.

A delegation of IOC along with DGM (LPG), Guwahati S. Chalia, Manager (CC) Tonmoy Mukharjee, Sales Manager (LPG) North Lakhimpur S.M. Hussain, Chief Plant Manager, Kimin, Sonam Khrimey, Director of Civil Supply, Liyon Borang on Friday meet Chief Secretary and discussed issues related to launching of Prime Minister Ujjwala Yojna (PMUY) in state of Arunachal Pradesh.

Singh said that the PMUY was launched at Balia (UP) in 2016 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This scheme particularly aims to empower the women in three fold manner. "The gas connection will be given to women folk and not in the name of man. The women need to have a bank account in any nationalised bank and others and the subsidy amount will be given to the bank account. Women will not need to go out to collect fire wood and it will save time and energy," he added.

DGM Chalia informed that PMUY will be launched on June 11 in the state in presence of Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Minister Food & Civil Supply Kamlung Mossang.

He also informed that Arunachal is one of leading state in surrendering the LPG subsidy scheme.

Rural Bank conducts financial literacy awareness camp

[ Prafulla Kaman ]

PASIGHAT, Jun 9: Sille branch of Arunachal Pradesh Rural Bank (APRB) with support of Financial Information Forum of National Bank for Agriculture & Rural Development (NABARD) organized a day-long financial literacy, awareness and recovery camp at Rani village in East Siang district on Friday.

Senior Manager (administration) of APRB from Naharlagun head office, Aben Dupak highlighted on social security schemes run by the bank and elaborated about Atal Pension Yojana, PM Jevena Jyoti Bima Yojana, Kishan Credit Card (KCC) and other loan/credit schemes and urged the rural people to avail the benefits of these schemes.

Dupak informed that Sille branch of APRB has bagged special commendation from the authority for overall performance and customer services as well. The branch has crossed the set target in granting loan to customers and accordingly, achieved a good recovery, he said.

When asked about financial status of the bank, Dupak said that financial status of APRB was vibrant and on an increasing trend.

"We are earning an average profit worth more than Rs 10 crore per annum. We are putting priority in granting KCC to help the rural farmers in their farming activities," he said.

Branch Manager of APRB (Sille) Ibom Jirdo urged the rural people to open bank account to avail various benefits under electronic transfer and cashless transaction.

He asserted that financial transactions and other official works are easier in Rural Banks than other banks, which he attributed to less area coverage and people friendly policies. He also discussed about Adhaar seeding with the bank accounts to get various benefits.

Block Development Officer Ponil Bori told the participants about Direct Beneficiary Transfer. He said that Central government has taken up policy to stop corruption and financial mismanagement.

Among others, Sericulture Development Officer Talong Tadeng, Agriculture Development Officer Luk Ezing and SIlle ZPM Tajing Taki also spoke on the occasion.

The APRB earlier conducted two such programme at Sille and Oyan village and made the rural people aware on various financial schemes formulated by the government.

Mein calls for tourism promotion strategy

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: Deputy Chief Minister, Chowna Mein has called upon the tourism department to formulate tourism promotion strategy saying that tourism industry can be the major source of revenue as well as employment generation. The DCM was addressing at the valedictory function of the three-day tourism annual conference on the "Theme 2017: Tourist Friendly Arunachal" at Directorate of Tourism here on Friday.

Exhorting all stakeholders to tap the tourism potential of the state, he said Arunachal is endowed with vast cultural diversity and each tourist spot can be developed according to its unique quality.

Mein further said that state govt's budget of this year mainly focused on development of tourism and health sectors. The agriculture and horticulture sectors have also potential to be developed for which opportunities must be created, explored and harnessed, he said.

While highlighting the role of tourism in providing employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, he called upon the stakeholders and members of APTOA to develop innovative idea to lure more tourists in the state. He also urged for preparing a roadmap for developing the handicraft & handloom centres in every important strategic location as tourists' attraction.

Parliamentary Secretary, Tourism, P D Sona while extending his gratitude to Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister for giving special focus on tourism with enhanced budget, elaborated the initiatives that have been taken by the government for the promotion of Tourism sector. He also expressed hope that the outcome of the conference will give fillip to the tourism industry.

Tourism Secretary, Joram Beda informed that through the conference the department has tried to explore a number of key themes including sustainable tourism industry, promotion of innovative energy initiatives, conservation, preservation and protection of natural environment and formulation of annual action plan of the department.

Earlier in the day, two technical sessions were also held wherein various delegates made their presentations on the varied issues related to the themes of the technical sessions.

Among others, Tourism Director, Karma Leki, DIOs, TIOs, members of Arunachal Pradesh Tour Operators Association were present on the occasion.

Arunachalee cricketer undergoes national cricket camp

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: Darge Bagra-a budding cricket player from Arunachal-has undergone 20 days U-16 national cricket coaching/training camp at National Cricket Academy in Dimapur, Nagaland from May 16.

Darge, son of Bomdar Bagra and Dapu Ado Bagra of Higi Bagra village in West Siang district, was the lone cricketer from the state to be selected for the national camp, informed Memo Ao Welfare Society, Capital Complex Itanagar.

While wishing him a bright sporting career and success in his future endeavours, the society hoped Darge would become asource of inspiration for the youths of his village in particular.

He has passed class X examination this year from P-Sector Govt. Secondary school, Itanagar.

Hong Dree Football tourney kicks off

ZIRO, Jun 9: BMTT Club defeated Hennayo Club 3 - 1 in the opening match of the 28th Hong Dree Football Tournament, which began on June 7.

Secretary, Sports and Youth Affairs Dani Salu, who kicked off the tournament at Hanoko, Hong, advised the participants to maintain sportsmanship spirit throughout the tournament, and aim to represent the district, state and the country at highest level of competitions.

He also informed about the Government's job reservation policy for meritorious sportspersons in all government departments and advised the players to grab the opportunity. DIPRO

Meanwhile, Diibo Sports Club (DSC) defeated Nenchalya Sports Association (NSA) 3-1 in a league level match of the ongoing Golden Jubilee Central Dree Football Championship at Govt. Ziro Higher Secondary School ground here on Friday.

Tamo Bida (32nd min), Koj Tarung (71st min) and Michi Rayo (74th min) were the scorers. NSA's lone goal was scored by Mobia Sera in the last minute.

Earlier, last year's runner up Hari Sports Club (HSC) beat Diibo Football Club (DFC) 3-1 with the help of two goals from Landi Millo and one goal from Hage Tamo.

The consolation goal for DFC came from Michi Tajang.

Naring Ajing Society has donated few of eco friendly dustbins and locally made wreckage pickers to the Central Dree Festival Committee. Chief games & sports secretary Taru T Razu appealed to participants as well as spectators to use the dustbins to keep the ground and its surroundings clean.

Tawang DC gives emphasis on ornamental & indigenous fish farming

TAWANG, Jun 9: Emphasising on the conservation of ornamental and indigenous fish species, Tawang Deputy Commissioner, Sang Phuntsok has asked the fishery department to take necessary step in this regard.

Addressing the inaugural function of the two-day "stakeholders meet to facilitate sharing of experience, technology and exposure to innovative ideas" here on Thursday, Tawang DC said though religious concern has negatively affected acceptability of fishery activities in the area, other aspects namely, like ornamental fish culture could be explored. He further laid emphasis on the importance of conservation of indigenous fish species and asked the department to take necessary action for the same. Considering the low landholdings in the district, DC reiterated on the need to sensitize masses to explore various sources of sustainable livelihood other than agriculture.

Zilla Parishad Chairperson, Jambey Tsering also encouraged the fish farmers present in the meeting to take up fish culture in potential areas which would not only create avenues for self employment, but would also cater to the local market demand.

During the programme which was organised by the Fishery department, Tawang, farmers were taught about Integrated Fish Farming, Trout Culture, fish feed preparation, composite culture etc. They were also taken on exposure visit to various Govt. Fish Farms. DIPRO

Indigenous Textile Promotion scheme launched in West Siang

AALO, Jun 9: The Chief Minister's Indigenous Textile Promotion (CMITP) scheme for the session 2016-17 was formally launched at the Conference Hall of Craft Center here on Friday.

While launching the scheme under state Govt flagship programme, Zilla Parishad chairperson Yaman Bagra appealed all the women to take maximum benefits from such schemes. She also emphasized on the quality production of handloom and handicrafts by the weavers and the artisans. The demand for cotton yarn products is growing everywhere, she said while urging the weavers to meet the demand with quality produce to become self employed and self-dependant. Bagra also highlighted many new and existing schemes launched by both the State and Central Govts.

Both DDI and CO, HQ also spoke on the occasion and stressed on quality production to make the textile industry a profit making venture. DFDO emphasized on submission of report by the beneficiaries to the concerned departments for further submission to higher authorities so as to get more supports and assistance from both state and Central Govts.

Altogether 60 weavers out of selected 600 beneficiaries under CMITP Scheme 2016-17 were distributed free cotton yarn on the first day of the launch of the scheme.

Aalo ADTH, Teresa Padu disclosed that the yarns have also been sent for distribution through respective Panchayat leaders in the interior areas of the district under the prog-ramme. DIPRO

DC stresses need to prioritize bio-diversity conservation

BOMDILA, Jun 9: West Kameng Deputy Commissioner, Sonal Swaroop has highlighted the importance of Bio-diversity and stressed on the need to prioritize bio-diversity conservation.

She was addressing a workshop and consultation on building Network for Bird and Bio-diversity conservation in Arunachal Pradesh, here on Thursday last.

Swaroop also lauded the endeavours made by the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS)-IBCN-RSPB and Bird Life societies in conserving the Bio-diversities in the country and around the world.

'There should be an urgency and total commitment in addressing the issues of bio-diversity conservation and taking pre-emptive measures' she said.

The DC further opined that the case studies worked upon by the various organizations as elaborated upon, is an example of how each one of us can contribute and keep nature alive. She assured all possible help from the district administration in taking the mission further.

Earlier, while highlighting the background of BNHS Senior Scientist, Dr. Girish Jathar made an elaborate presentation on climate change in Arunachal Pradesh while, tour operator, Peter Lobo dealt on Birds and Eco-tourism potentials of the state.

Paul Insua Cao of IBCN networks and Ian Barber of RSPB made presentations on Important Birds and Bio-diversity Areas (IBAs) and Bird Conservation in India and South-Asia respectively.

A special footage on Mishmi Hills was shown by Monsoon Jyoti Gogoi.

An open session on networking and bird conservation issues was held wherein the MD Apex Bank, officers, representatives of the local NGOs, photo journalists, Safari operators and others participated.

Facilitated by DDTH, Dorjee Phuntso and Honorary Wildlife Warden Kesang Lhamu Khrimey, the workshop was conducted by the Bombay Natural History Society in collaboration with IBCN, Losar celebration committee Bomdila and Arunachal Pradesh Art & Culture Eco Tourism Society. (DIPRO)

SAA Chairman meets SAI regional director, discusses joint road map for development of sports in Arunachal

GUWAHATI, Jun 9: Sports Authority of Arunachal Chairman Bamang Tago, accompanied by a team of officials on Friday, met Regional Director of Sports Authority of India (SAI) Dr. Subhash Basumatary in Guwahati to discuss joint road map for systematic development of games and sports in Arunachal Pradesh and promotion of talented sportspersons as well.

Dr. Basumatary assured the delegation to extend all possible help to those indentified medal prospect sports disciplines and sportsperson at international level.

Sharing his experiences, Dr. Subhash emphasized on constant coordination among the State Government, SAA, SAI, district administrations, local bodies and all other sports associations right from grassroots level to produce sportspersons of international repute.

He also disclosed that SAI's Special Area Game (SAG) Centre at Rupa and Roing are likely to be considered by the competent authorities following the request of the State Government.

Tago was accompanied by Director Youth Affairs DK Dinglow, Jt. Director (Youth Affairs) Ramesh Linggi, General Secretary of Arunachal Karate Do Association Bulang Marik and Youth Welfare Officer, Dept. of Secondary Education, GoAP and Treasurer of Taekwondo Federation of India L. Sokun Singh.

15 days Saka Dawa rituals concludes

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: The 15 days 'Bum' recitation during Saka Dawa organized by Itanagar Buddhist Cultural Society (IBCS) ended at Thupten Gatselling Monastery, Itanagar with distribution of Bum Chock (Prasad).

According to the Buddhist culture, in this month Lord Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death all occurred. Hence, this month is considered very special in Buddhist culture and tradition.

Hundreds of believers offered prayers at the monastery and lighted Cheme (Butters lamps). Assembly Speaker TN Thongdok also visited the program on the 14th day for lighting the Cheme and sought blessings from the Lord Buddha.

Meanwhile, the Bum Recitation Committee headed by IBCS President Sonam Tenzing extended gratitude to each and everyone for their valuable contribution for month long prayer programme.

The committee also ended the fund raising campaign for Dirang flood and Kerang fire victims which was started simultaneously with Bum recitation. Rs 1 lakh was collected during the camp which will be equally distributed to Dirang and Kerang victims.

A team lead by Secretary IBCS Dorjee Wangdi Thungon and Tseri Gonpapa; President Dharma Committee will be visiting the effected places to hand over the collected amount.

‘Release SSA teachers' pending salaries soon’

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: In a representation to the Chief Minister on Friday, the Central Executive Committee of All Arunachal Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Teachers' Association (CEC, AASSATA) has drawn his attention towards non-release of SSA teachers' salaries for the last three months (March, April and May) and sought early release of the same.

'Despite the state government's directive to release the monthly salary of SSA teachers on regular basis from its exchequer without waiting the release of central share of fund and instruction issued by the Secretary Finance, teachers are not getting their pending salaries on time', the Association stated.

Disaster Management meet held

YUPIA, Jun 9: A District Executive Committee meeting of Disaster Management Papum Pare district was conducted under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner, Tai Kaye along with board members in connection with finalization of relief assistance, at the DC's conference hall, here on Friday.

Addressing the meeting, the DC called upon the members to properly examine the cases put forwarded for consideration so that relief assistance can be distributed.

It was decided in the meeting that all FDR cases belonging to different sub-divisions will be returned to concern ADCs immediately. Relief cases related to crop damages and fire accidents were also disposed of during the meeting. Among those who attended the meeting were, Papum Pare SP, Tumme Amo, DRDA Project Director, T Babu, DMO Dr. Tasso Kampu, DHO Tesi Yami, ADO Nabam Katung, DDMO Y Jerang and staffs of Disaster management. (DIPRO)

Health camp for Yak organized

DIRANG, Jun 9: The ICAR-National Research Centre on Yak (NRCY), Dirang organized a yak health camp on Friday at Rocky Area -I, nearby Sela pass in the border of the West Kameng and Tawang district.

350 yaks of nine families were covered during the health camp. Besides the health coverage, the yak herders were given medicines for internal parasites, anti-diarrheal drugs, herbal antiseptic ointments and sprays.

During the camp, scientists from the institute interacted with the yak herders and briefed them on scientific yak husbandry practices.

Dr. D. Medhi, Senior Scientist, Dr. Joken Bam and Dr. Sourabh Deori, Scientists and Tsering Khandu of ICAR-NRC on Yak, Dirang took part at the event.

PM's Ujjwala scheme to be launched in State

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) will be launched in the State on June 11 by Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju at a function being held in Banquet Hall here.

PMUY is a welfare scheme of the central government, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2016 to provide 5 crore LPG connections to poor families.

Recently, Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan during a meeting with Chief Minister Pema in New Delhi stated that every household in Arunachal Pradesh will get LPG connection by 2019. He requested the Chief Minister and MoS Home Rijiju to launch the scheme in the state.

Priest no more

ITANAGAR, Jun 9: Rido Mangming, one of the oldest priests of the Nyishi community has died on June 8 last, at his resident in Sayata Village, Kra Daadi.

He was 90. Mangming is survived by three sons, grandsons and daughters. Meanwhile, the Rido Charitable Society has deeply mourned his demise and prayed to the almighty for the eternal peace of the departed soul.

---- Editorial ----

Students suffering

On a day when government launched smart class room programme through out state, the All Papum Pare District Students' Union alleged that non distribution of textbook to the students is one of the main reasons for poor performance in the last academic session. Majority of students studying in government schools are dependent on govt supplied textbooks as most of them hail from poor economic background and cannot afford to buy books. It is alleged that no books have been distributed to students in the academic session 2016-17.

This is utter shocking considering the fact that on several occasion state government claimed that they are giving topmost priority to education and health sector. How can they talk of giving priority to education sector without supplying textbook to the student communities? Without textbook how can children acquire requisite knowledge to pass the exams? Government should not make hollow promises to the students. Immediate remedial measures should be taken and textbook should be made available to the students of government schools. Most of the student's studying in Govt School is from poor background and by denying textbook to these students government is virtually pushing them towards darkness.

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---- Readers Forum ----

Bad roads and lives lost

Dear Editor,

Through your esteemed daily, I would like to draw attention to the growing number of deaths within capital complex due to inadequate road connectivity, congested traffic and reckless driving.

These past days have shattered me. Four deaths within three days in capital complex due to road accidents is heart wrenching and great loss. Who do we blame for this situation-whether the state government machinery, Central government or public itself? Why can'twe afford better road connectivity within capital complex? Why don't we see the pain and agony of those who have to lose their loved ones because of accidents? The numbers of vehicles are increasing day by day but the size of the road has remained.

I just want to know how many more lives we are going to sacrifice because of the bad roads.

Everyone should retrospect. We lost four lives within short span of three days. The deaths are on the raise due to inadequate roads and reckless driving. The times have come for the government machinery to take responsibility and save many innocent lives.

In addition, I appeal every vehicle owner/driver to stop reckless driving, take care of yourself and others too. Have little patience.

Life is always precious and it's our moral duty to obey traffic rule so that lives are saved.

Yours,

Alex Nalo

Itanagar

Our small farmers

Dear Editor,

Apropos your editorial, "Distress farmers need govt support" (June 9), the death of six farmers by Madhya Pradesh police firing is horrific. We are achieving success in space one after another. But are we really trying to improve the lot of our small farmers? Are our policies meant for the people in general? How long are we to stay put at and around 131st position in Human Development Index? When will we give small and marginal farmers "the ownership and control of the material resources of the community" as enshrined in the Article 39 (b) of our Constitution? When will our people "have the right to an adequate means of livelihood" as per the Article 39 (a) of the Indian Constitution? And when will we follow the Article 39 (c) so "that the operation of the economic system does not result in the concentration of wealth"?

Yours,

Sujit De, Kolkata

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---Editor