jun17 13

2017

June 13

Home

After 73 years, mortal remains of American MIA that perished in Arunachal laid to rest

[ Amar Sangno/Gary Zaetz ]

ITANAGAR/ GEORGIA (US), Jun 12: After a long wait of 73 years, the mortal remains of 'Hot as Hell' bombardier 1st Lt Robert Eugene Oxford, recovered in 2015 from Damro area in Upper Siang district, Arunachal Pradesh, was buried in his home state of Georgia on Sunday with full military honours.

Hundreds of people turned out for the ceremony. The remains arrived at Atlanta's Airport on June 8 this year with a military honor guard, and was transported by car under police escort to 1st Lt Oxford's home county of Pike County, Georgia.

Around 24 years old, 1st Lt Robert Eugene Oxford was among the eight crew members of Flight B-24 J, nicknamed 'Hot as Hell' on board, that went missing in November 1944 during World War-II. It took off from Kunming, China for a routine flight to Chabua near Dibrugarh, India. The plane never reached its destination and the crew was later declared dead on 20 November, 1944. Flight B-24 J was assigned to the 14th Air Force, 308th Bombardment Group and its prime target was to destabilize Japanese naval bases and army movement in South Asia, including North East India.

The US Defence Prisoners of War Accounting Agency (DPPA) team arrived in Arunachal Pradesh under the command of Captain David Gooch, Marine Corp Unit and extracted the mortal remains on 2nd October, 2016. After a month-long crash site expedition, the DPPA team left Mariyang on November 8 last year for the US with the human remains for forensic analysis.

The US had engaged in recovery missions across the world to bring back its war dead but efforts in Arunachal hit a roadblock after the UPA Government put a stop to it in 2009, reasoning that the territory was sensitive due to "strategic, internal political, ecological and anthropological reasons".

However, the Modi led NDA Government allowed the US search operation team to resume its recovery mission while shrugging off Chinese concerns.

Students protest demanding release of stipend and scholarship

Staff Reporter

NAHARLAGUN, Jun 12: Demanding immediate release of the pending scholarship money of the students, timely release of stipend and scholarship from new academic session and enhancement of the stipend amount, students under the Joint Interim Committee (JIC) for Stipend & Scholarship 2017, held a protest in front of the Director of Tribal Affairs office at Naharlagun on Monday

JIC Chairman Hillang Nima said that due to pending and non-payment of stipend and scholarship amount to the students of Arunachal Pradesh, the students studying in the Capital Complex and outside the state are reportedly facing many problems, including rent, hostel fee, mess fee, tuitions fee and semester fee.

He also informed that the MoU signed between the JIC and the state government representatives regarding the releasing of stipend and scholarship expired two months earlier and that there has been no response from the government.

At present, there are 22,564 post matric and 2,595 pre-matric students who are yet to be given stipends and scholarships, Nima informed.

The JIC also demanded monthly release of stipend and scholarship from the new academic session, and enhancement of the stipend amount from Rs 16,400 to Rs 30,000 from the new academic session.

Interacting with the students, Director of tribal Affair, Yumlam Kaha highlighted all the rules and regulations about stipend and scholarship. He clarified that the national scholarship portal is a central government policy and the funds are also released from the center.

"If the central government does not release funds, then the state government or department cannot do anything", he said.

The Director appealed to the student community to call off the protest and assured that the amount would be released as soon as the central government releases the fund through Direct benefit Transfer.

Meanwhile, the All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) in a press statement has stated that it is pursuing the scholarship matter with the state and centre governments.

The Union said that students have to be patient for the release of scholarship of pre and post Matric for tribal students.

The matter was clarified by the Union and the concerned department that the disbursement of the scholarship will start by the first week of July, the AAPSU added. The Union clarified that it understands the sentiments of the students and has been working rigorously to pursue the scholarship issue.

Delay in rescue as police decides jurisdiction

[ Nellie N Manpoong ]

ITANAGAR, Jun 12: The issue of jurisdiction could have cost five people their lives, had passerby Techi Karda not stopped to rescue them on time.

At around 9.30 PM on Sunday, a truck carrying a heavy earth cutting machine fell into the slope at the sharp turn near the Shiv Mandir after its brake failed. On witnessing the accident, Karda stopped his vehicle and dialed 100, which connected him to the Naharlagun Police Station. However, the Naharlagun operator told him that the area comes under the jurisdiction of the Itanagar Police Station and gave him the Itanagar Police Station's number. When Karda dialed the Itanagar Police Station, he was again told that the area comes under the Naharlagun Police Station.

Dismayed at the reaction from both sides, Karda went down to the spot and rescued four people and took them to Niba Hospital. He went back for the fifth victim. However, by the time he had arrived, the injured was rescued by others and Karda took the victim to the hospital.

However, Niba Hospital authorities said that they do not take in accident cases and they were referred to TRIHMS, Naharlagun.

"The first police operator should have responded irrespective of jurisdiction", said Karda, who informed that it took him a little over 30 minutes to rescue and take all the victims to the hospital, but no police car had come arrived till then.

Both police station authorities informed that they had sent their officials to check on the accident, and the matter is now under the Itanagar Police Station.

Speaking to this daily, the Capital Superintendent of Police informed that the area is the border between Naharlagun and Itanagar police stations, and he admitted that if assistance is required then the first operator should have responded. He also said that he would speak to the officials regarding the delay in response.

MLA’s car refuses to stop for check

[ Nellie N Manpoong ]

ITANAGAR, Jun 12: During a surprise check on vehicles on Monday by the Arunachal Pradesh Police, Itanagar unit, the vehicle of MLA Gojen Gadi refused to stop citing that it was a government vehicle.

A team of police personnel, led by SDPO Techi Hanyir was conducting checks at various locations in Itanagar on vehicles that had tinted glasses, were without registration and on two wheeler vehicles that were triple riding or without helmets.

Reportedly, Gadi's vehicle was stopped for having tinted glasses by the police near P-Sector, Itanagar. A police official claimed that Gadi, who was in the passenger seat, chided the police for not recognizing him as his driver sped off.

However, Gadi claimed that his vehicle did not have any tinted glasses and that he was rushing for an important work.

The vehicle of MLA Tanga Byaling was also stopped for tinted glasses, but the driver and passengers were cooperative with the police.

An underage driver, with three of his friends was also stopped and had to pay a heavy penalty for breaking various sections of the Motor Vehicle Act. This included driving without a valid license, underage driving, driving without registration and without number plate.

SDPO Hanyir said that most people cooperate with the police during such checks, but it is the government vehicles that try to coax their way out.

She requested for cooperation from everyone, including legislators and bureaucrats to keep the city safe. "Tinted glasses are not allowed under the Motor Vehicle Act to deter any type of crime that may be occurring inside a vehicle. People should understand that it is for their own safety", the SDPO said.

The tinted papers of at least 70 cars were taken down during the check, while two wheeler drivers had to pay penalties for driving without helmets or triple riding.

Govt committed to fast-track development in NE: Rajnath

AIZAWL, Jun 12: The Centre is committed to fast tracking the development initiatives in the northeastern region, especially in border areas, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said today.

Addressing a meeting of the chief ministers of the four northeastern states which share border with Myanmar, Singh said the region is immensely rich in human and natural resources and its ethnic and linguistic diversities enrich India's cultural heritage.

"Our government is committed to fast tracking of development in the northeastern region. Work on road and rail network extension is going on. We want to extend these networks to border areas," he said in his opening remarks.

The meeting was convened to discuss the issues of Indo- Myanmar border and attended by Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju besides Pema Khandu, N Biren Singh and Lal Thanhawla, the chief ministers of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and Mizoram, respectively, and Nagaland Home Minister Yanthungo Patton.

"India-Myanmar border is unique in many ways. It has a visa-free movement regime for the people living within 16 km on either side," Singh pointed out.

Praising the Assam Rifles, which guards the 1,643-km-long Indo-Myanmar border, the home minister said the Assam Rifles is performing its duty with courage and determination.

Under the Border Area Development programme, the four states -- Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram-- bordering Myanmar received Rs 567.39 crores during the last three years, Singh said.

The home minister also met Governor of Mizoram Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd) Nirbhay Sharma at Raj Bhavan here.

The international border with Mynamar is considered to be porous with cross-border movement of insurgents and smuggling of arms and ammunition common there.

This is for the first time that such a meeting has been called to discuss issues concerning Mynamar border with active participation of the state governments.

The chief secretaries, directors general of police (DGPs) of the states, director general of the Assam Rifles and senior officials from the central ministries concerned were also present at the meeting. (PTI)

CM stresses on comprehensive development plan for TCL

AIZAWL, Jun 12: Chief Minister Pema Khandu stressed on the need for a comprehensive development plan for Tirap, Changlang and Longding (TCL) districts to increase entrepreneurship and employability so that the people of these districts do not deviate from the mainstream.

"Such efforts will go a long way in addressing poverty and lack of employment in these districts," said the Chief Minister, while addressing a review meeting to discuss India-Myanmar border issues, which was chaired by Union Home Minister, Rajnath Singh.

He said that significant portion of population is also engaged in illegal opium production and trade, which has to be tackled aggressively using two pronged strategy of de-addiction centre and skill development centre.

Since the terrain of TCL region is good for cash crops, Spice Board of India and Krishi Vigyan Kendra may be advised to open their offices in these three districts, said the Chief Minister.

He informed that state government has prepared a proposal of around Rs 985 crore as a fresh special package for TCL districts and requested the Home Ministry to consider the new proposal favourably.

The Chief Minister also suggested taking adequate steps to prevent migration from the border areas and sought central assistances for rapid economic development of the border areas along the Indo-Myanmar border.

He emphasized that trade between the two countries needs to be encouraged and more border 'haats' be opened for the purpose. He apprised the Home Minister about an MoU that was signed in 2012 between India and Myanmar for establishment of Border Haats along the Indo-Myanmar border to facilitate border trade, which included one at Nampong (Pangsau Pass).

Urging for strengthening and modernization of police force in the state, the Chief Minister proposed for setting up of a Forensic Science Laboratory in Arunachal Pradesh in one of the three districts of TCL.

He also requested the Home Ministry to expedite the final approval for construction and upgrading 20 police station buildings and other infrastructural facilities under special package for TCL districts.

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju and Deputy Chief Minister, Chowna Mein also spoke on the occasion.

The meeting also discussed BADP projects, streamlining the Free Movement Regime (FMR), work relating to boundary survey and other co-ordination issues between the states and the border guarding force.

Chief Ministers of Nagaland Shurhozelie Liezietsu, Manipur N Biren Singh and Mizoram Lal Thanhawla attended the meeting, including Directors General of Police of the respective states and Director General of Assam Rifles Lt General Shokin Chauhan and senior officials from the concerned central ministries.

Governor urges Centre to expedite air connectivity processes

ITANAGAR, Jun 12: Governor P B Acharya urged the Centre to expedite the process of activating Tezu Airport, Greenfield Airport at Itanagar and dual utilization of Advance Landing Grounds (ALG) for defence and civilian purposes.

Highlighting the communication bottleneck in this eastern most state of the country, the Governor, in a letter to the Prime Minister stated that connectivity in this region is a challenge and that air connectivity can give huge thrust in mitigating this challenge. He urged the Prime Minister to give priority to this matter.

Conveying gratitude of the people of the strategic border area state to Prime Minister for inaugurating the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge, the Governor said that the bridge will not only instil sense of security and give thrust to the economical development of the states of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam but also go a long way in further strengthening spirit of amity amongst the people of both states by connecting hearts.

The Governor further said that by naming the bridge after legendary cultural icon of North East Bhupen Hazarika, the Prime Minister has touched the hearts and mind.

"Hazarika is the cohesion force amongst the people of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam as he was born in Bolung village, Lower Dibang Valley district, which is now in Arunachal Pradesh after the bifurcation of NEFA", he added.

The Governor also thanked the Prime Minister on behalf of all Arunachalees for the new railway track initiatives in the state stating that it will boost the economy, tourism, religious pilgrimage of the state and the region, and also reinforce sense of security amongst the border area people.

ATCO demands creation of Abo Tani department

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Jun 12: The Abo Tani Clan Organisation (ATCO) reiterated its demand for creation of Abo Tani Tradition and Culture Department, justifying that creating the department would enable preservation and documentation of the rich cultural heritage of Tani clans.

In a press conference held here, ATCO Advisory Member Taba Taku stated that the government should create Abo Tani Tradition and Culture Department in the line of Department of Tirap, Changlang and Longding (DoTCL) and Department of Karmik and Adhyatmik (DoKA) to preserve and promote age old culture and tradition.

However, Taku made it clear that their demand is not a prejudice against DoTCL and DoKA, but rather an attempt to draw the government's attention towards preservation of the Abo Tani's culture by assigning a particular department.

"Our demand is not to harm the sentiment of other tribes or a prejudice against other cultures, but only a demand for preservation of our own tradition and culture", Taku added.

He further informed that the ATCO had taken consensus from Tani clan based community organisations for the proposal for creation of the department. "We felt that it is high time the government should create the department", he exhorted.

The ATCO also raised questions on unequal distribution of developmental fund under Revised Estimate 2016-17, claiming that many Tani clan based areas were deprived of funds.

It further reiterated for implementation of minimum wages (labour wages) as per the central government announcement and expedition of Greenfield Airport at Hollongi, fearing that the dream project may never take place if it goes in the current pace.

Two government quarters gutted

YINGKIONG, Jun 12: Two government teachers' quarters were completely gutted and one adjoining kitchen partially damaged in a fire incident that broke out at School Colony at around 4 am on Sunday.

An electric short-circuit is suspected to have caused the fire, and a fire tender was pressed into service to douse the fire, an official report said. (DIPRO)

PLV to help fire victims get back their lost documents

AALO, Jun 12: A group of trained Para Legal Volunteers (PLV) from Legal Aid Centre, Aalo, led by Advocate Gekar Angu assured to extend legal help to the victims of the Gumin Yijo fire accident in getting back their original documents and important papers that were lost in the fire.

The PLV team has already visited the fire accident site and assured the victims to extend them all legal assistances.

The activities of the students of the legal cell here have been intensified since it was opened at Aalo and a number of legal awareness campaigns were also conducted free of cost, particularly for the poor, who cannot afford to bear the legal cost involved in different cases.

In another humanitarian gesture, the Rama Krishna Mission School Aalo provided basic items, including blankets, utensils, etc to all the affected families of Gumin Yijo fire accident. Pens, pencils, notebooks, etc were also distributed among the 14 affected students. (DIPRO)

Jail inmates enrolled for Aadhaar

TEZU, Jun 12: In all, 43 inmates of Tezu District Jail were enrolled for Aadhaar by a team of Biometric Enrolment (BME) officials from District Statistics Office, on June 9.

Out of the 43 prisoners enrolled for Aadhaar, 24 were UTPs and 19 convicted prisoners.

Chief Warden in-charge Maga Tayo extended all support and cooperation to the team in the process of enrolment. (DIPRO)

JWCAPTU to launch phase-wise strike

ITANAGAR, Jun 12: The Joint Working Committee of Arunachal Pradesh Trade Unions (JWCAPTU) has decided to launch its proposed phase-wise strike with effect from June 21 next till their demands are fulfilled.

In a representation to the state Chief Secretary on Monday, the JWCAPTU stated that despite the state government's assurance on March 30 last to fulfil its demands within a month, no steps have been taken so far. The JWCAPTU further said that their demands were also not placed before the state cabinet meeting due to the lackadaisical attitude of the GoAP.

The Union, as part of its 5th phase strike, will launch 12 hours blackout on June 21, followed by 6th phase non-cooperation movement on July 10, 11, 12 and 13, 7th phase non-cooperation movement on August 9,10,11,12 &14 and 8th phase hunger strike-cum-indefinite non-cooperation movement from August 28 onwards.

BAI appoints Tago as national manager for Grand Prix

ITANAGAR, Jun 12: The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has appointed Arunachal State Badminton Association President Bamang Tago and Sukant Das from Sikkim as managers of the national badminton teams for the upcoming Chinese Taipei Grand Prix, US Open Grand Prix, Canadian Open Grand Prix and Asian Junior Championships, to be played in Jakarta, Indonesia next month.

The BAI in their quest to give their players enough time to prepare for international tournaments have announced the teams for three upcoming international tournaments after a selection committee meeting that was held in Bengaluru on Saturday.

The committee declared the names of the players who will travel for the upcoming tournaments starting with the Chinese Taipei Grand Prix Gold (June 27-July 2), Canada Open Grand Prix (July 11-16) and US Open Grand Prix Gold (July 19-23), along with the announcement of the squad for the Junior Asian Badminton Championship (July 22- 30).

Tago, who also is the Chairman of Sports Authority Arunachal, has also been elected as executive member of BAI in its executive body meeting held in Bengaluru, chaired by its President Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Anti Malaria campaign begins in LDV

ROING, Jun 12: As part of "Anti Malaria Month" campaign, an awareness cum advocacy meeting of all stakeholders, HoDs, and PRI members of Lower Dibang Valley district was organized by the District Vector Borne Disease Control Society at the RDC Hall, District Hospital Roing on Friday last.

District Vector Borne Disease Control Officer, Dr Nangkong Yirang, while presenting a power point on malaria and other vector borne diseases, requested the masses present to disseminate the message to others and cooperate with the Health Department in achieving the goal of elimination of malaria by 2030 from the country.

"Malaria, the most significant vector borne disease of public health concerns in India, is one of the major causes of loss of income and absenteeism in schools", informed Dr Yirang. "The direct costs of malaria include a combination of personal and public expenditures on both prevention and treatment of the disease. The indirect costs of malaria include productivity or income loss due to illness or premature death", he added.

He further informed that during monsoon and post monsoon season, the breeding of vector mosquitoes responsible for transmission of malaria and other vector borne diseases, like Dengue, Japanese Encephalitis, etc increase considerably due to collection of rain water everywhere.

Chairman of the programme, ADC Cheshta Yadav also spoke regarding these diseases and stressed on conducting cleanliness drive in the township area. She cautioned all other departments that most of the government buildings are in dilapidated condition and are becoming breeding places of mosquitoes. She urged the Health Department for frequent survey of such breeding places and to create public awareness.

DMO Dr Radesh Tatan also briefed about vector borne diseases and urged all stakeholders to join hands in this fight against these dreaded diseases. DTO (RNTCP) Dr S J Mitapo also spoke on the occasion. Among others, all HoDs, Medical Superintendent, Programme Officers, Medical Officers and staff participated in the function.

The month of June every year is observed as "Anti Malaria Month" all over the nation to create public awareness about malaria and to encourage community participation in prevention and control of the disease.

Girls trained on 'Beauty Care' at Khonsa

KHONSA, Jun 12: In all, 18 girls underwent a week-long training on beauty care as part of a skill development programme conducted by the district administration, in collaboration with SanSys Computer a unit of SanSys Enterprises Pvt Ltd OPC, Dibrugarh (Assam) under BADP scheme, which concluded on Monday.

During the short-term training on 'beauty culture', master trainers and beauticians Priyalata Sharma and Swapna Sharma imparted training on hair care, facial and threading, basic methods of bridal make up, manicure and pedicure.

Congratulating the trainees for completing the short-term training course, Tirap Deputy Commissioner, Ravi Jha said that the objective behind organizing such trainings is to reduce unemployment problem among the district's youth.

Later, the DC also awarded certificates to the trainees on the occasion.

Apatani audio album released

ZIRO, Jun 12: An Apatani audio album, "Notañ Ajiñ", produced by Taru Tana Otung and Puna Hinda Mamung, in memory of their mothers-in-law Taru Yapyang and Puna Rinyo, was released in a function at Old Ziro on Sunday evening.

Renowned singers of the plateau, Hage Komo, Leegang Ania, Habung Mona, Radhe Yabyang, H T Ampa, Gyati Aambo, Kuru Ruja, Habung Tamang (Momo) and Taru Tana have lent their voices to the album, besides two budding singers, H T Abin and Narang Yanga.

The album contains nine songs, five of which are related to Dree celebration.

Lyrics for the songs were penned by Doging Tabio, Tage Tayu, Dr Hage Taker and Hage Komo.

NSS activities inculcate moral and social values among youths: Ering

PASIGHAT, Jun 12: Lok Sabha Member, Ninong Ering has said that various activities initiated by the National Service Scheme (NSS) helps inculcate moral and social values among the youths.

He was addressing the valedictory programme of a week-long special NSS camp themed 'Youth for Clean Environment', organized by the NSS unit of the College of Horticulture and Forestry, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat at Sibo Siang Colony on Monday.

Ering also lauded the efforts of NSS volunteers at Sibo Siang Colony.

Dean In-charge of CHF Pasighat, Dr L Wangchu said that NSS volunteers are committed to contribute for any social work apart from regular activities.

Camp Coordinator and NSS Programme Officer, Krishna Singh Tomar briefed the gathering about week-long NSS camp, wherein various activities like mass cleanliness, white washing of church, mass plantation of saplings, training on mushroom cultivation, vermicomposting, pig and poultry production, fish drying, dry flowers, floral craft and pickle making were undertaken by a total of 75 volunteers.

Later, Ering distributed NSS certificates to the volunteers.

Dree Football Tournaments

Tajung Tana FC, BMSVFC win in Capital, MUFC defeat FCZ in Ziro

ITANAGAR, Jun 12: Tajung Tana FC defeated RT United FC 4-0 in a league level match in open category in the Capital Complex Dree Football Tournament played at DN Government College, here on Monday.

Goal scorers were Bullo Hassang (2nd, 11th min), Bullo Hong (52nd min) and Narang Tama (58th min).

Bulla Hassang of Tajung Tana FC was chosen as "Hero of the Match".

In veteran category, Bumer Memorial School Veteran FC (BMSVFC), Ziro beat Paath FC, Itanagar 4-1.

Koj Tatung gave BMSVFC an early lead by scoring in 18th minute and 30th minute (2-0).

Dani Bukey of Paath FC reduced the lead to 1-2 goals by scoring in 43rd minute.

Nending Ommo scored one more goal in 45th minute to give his team of BMSVFC a 3-1 lead at halftime.

Nending Ommo again found the net in 56th minute to finally make it 4-1.

"Hero of the Match" was awarded to Hibu Tade of Paath FC.

At Ziro, Itanagar-based Miichi United Football Club (MUFC) and Hello Football Club Itanagar (HFCI) won their respective matches in the Golden Jubilee Central Dree Football Tournament played at Government Higher Secondary School, Ziro playground on Monday.

MUFC defeated Football Club Ziro with a huge margin of 6-1, while HFCI defeated Nenchalya Sports Association 3-1.

DC reviews developmental activities in Papum Pare

YUPIA, Jun 12: Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Tai Kaye reviewed the progress of all the ongoing developmental works, road condition in border areas, supply and availability of essential commodities, etc in a coordinating meeting of all the administrative officials and HoDs here on Monday.

Interacting with the officers, the Deputy Commissioner asked each and everyone to perform their duties with dedication and keep updating him on the present status of works going on in their respective administrative centres.

He also asked the Kimin SDO and Kakoi CO to work out the parameters for land notification of urban areas and deal firmly with land encroachers in urban areas. He also enquired about the progress of Aadhaar enrolment.

The Deputy Commissioner instructed the DF&CSO to direct the carriage contractors of FPS to use the road through Bedetti, Assam to transport food and other essentials items to Tarasso circles, to ensure that there will be no food scarcity during monsoon.

DMO Dr Tasso Kampu briefed the Deputy Commissioner about the present status of health facility in the district and said that she was trying her level best to improve the health facilities with the support of district administration. She also said that many non-functional health facilities/centres have been made functional and results are very encouraging.

Implementation of Dulari Kanya scheme was also discussed in the meeting.

Deputy Director, ICDS Dani Yami informed that they have already started to implement the scheme.

All administrative officers and HoDs briefed the DC about their present status of their respective departments. (DIPRO)

Free medical camp organized

[ Karda Natam ]

DAPORIJO, Jun 12: Altogether, 180 patients were given free treatment during a medical camp organized by the Pombu Kow Welfare Society (PKWS) in Aying Muri under Nacho Circle and Siyum village under Siyum Circle on Saturday and Sunday respectively.

Villagers were given free medical checkups and medicines were also distributed for free to the villagers.

Attending the programme, Tabu Paktung, President of the Tagin Cultural Society who is also member of the PKWS, encouraged the members of the society for initiating such noble steps for the welfare of mankind. Everyone should come forward and serve the society according to their capacity, he added.

Appreciating Dr Bini Nirin for serving in remote areas, he added that all professionals in different fields should render their selfless service to the society.

Chairman of the PKWS, Ramesh Ebiya also informed that such kind of welfare activities is a regular part of the activities being performed by the society.

Kundra stresses on timely completion of CSS, state's power projects

NAMSAI, Jun 12: Development Commissioner and Commissioner (Finance, Investment & Power) Ashis Kundra emphasized on the need to ensure timely completion of all Central Sponsored Schemes (CSS) and state power projects in order to cover all unelectrified villages.

Kundra, who held a meeting with the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of eight districts of eastern zone, on Monday at conference hall of Kongmukham (Golden Pagoda) Tengapani, advised the DCs to keep their district in readiness to start Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in a short period for all subsidy related schemes, especially in Public Distribution System, which will immensely benefit the beneficiaries.

He requested them to gear up the process of Aadhaar seeding with beneficiaries' bank accounts and also to activate official website and upload all information of the district as well as details of every scheme being executed for the purpose of public information and transparency.

The Development Commissioner also took stock of the prevailing power scenario of the districts, its potentiality and reviewed the hydro power projects managed by the DHPD.

Earlier on Sunday, Kundra visited newly constructed District Mini Secretariat Building, under construction Multipurpose Cultural hall and Stadium Complex, Namsai.

All the deputy commissioners attending the meeting presented various developmental activities at length in the sectors of agriculture, industries, and handloom & textile in respect of their districts through power point presentations.

The chief engineers of Power and Hydro Power elucidated the progress and target achieved so far and highlighted the various hurdles being faced to complete the task within a time frame.

Besides the DCs, the meeting was also attended by NABARD GM, officials of the departments of industry, textile, agriculture, planning and engineers from eight districts of the Eastern Zone.

AKKDSU seeks early establishment of treasury office

PALIN, Jun 12: The All Kra Daadi District Student's Union (AKDDSU) has submitted a memorandum to the Director of Account & Treasuries for early establishment and functioning of treasury office at Palin under Kra Daadi district.

In a press statement, the AKDDSU informed that even after the passage of eight months of notification for the establishment and functioning of treasury office at Palin, the said office is yet to be made functional.

For treasury clearances and other government business, the officials as well as the students and public have to travel all the way to Ziro town. The Union claimed that Kra Daadi Deputy Commissioner Pige Ligu had also written a letter to the Commissioner Finance, but is yet to get a response from the department.

The AKDDSU has appealed to the state government to look into the matter and address the grievances at the earliest.

Ato Sarlar T20 Cricket Tourney begins at Darak

DARAK, Jun 12: The 5th Ato Sarlar T20 Cricket Tournament, organized by the Potom Youth Association, began at Darak on June 10.

Yomcha ADC Rujum Raksap, who inaugurated the tournament, expressed hope that the tournament would provide an appropriate platform for the budding and hidden rural cricketing talents. He said sports should be taken up professionally and that the government too is encouraging it by keeping job reservations for meritorious sportsmen and women.

DIPRO Gijum Tali appreciated the efforts of Potom Youth Association to organize the tournament regularly in memory of their ancestor to promote games and sports in remote places.

Later, Darak United and Diary Farm Cricket Club won their opening matches defeating Keak Youth Cricket Club and Poyom Cricket Club respectively.

Altogether, 24 teams are in the fray for the tournament. (DIPRO)

Diocese of Miao organises APPSC coaching

MIAO, Jun 12: In an effort to prepare the youth for the upcoming Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission Examinations, the Diocese of Miao is organizing an intensive coaching for the youth, which started on Monday at Kristu Jyothi Niwas, Tinsukia.

The coaching camp will conclude on 21st of this month.

We need to prepare our youth today for tomorrow's tough competitions, said Bishop George of Miao Diocese, explaining the reason behind the coaching camp. Father Thomas Erambil, Secretary of Catholic Education Commission in east Arunachal Pradesh, lamented the paucity of government officers from the eastern part of Arunachal Pradesh. He also highlighted the need for having dedicated and committed public servants to serve the people of Arunachal Pradesh.

The 25 participants attending the coaching camp are from far-flung villages of Tirap, Longding and Changlang districts of Arunachal Pradesh, who would otherwise not have the opportunity for such coaching. The resource persons for the 10-day intensive coaching are from the Insight IAS Coaching team from Bengaluru.

Training on disaster management conducted at Sagalee

SAGALEE, Jun 12: Day-long awareness training on disaster management was conducted by a team of 12th Bn NDRF team of Doimukh at Sagalee recently.

During the training, which was aimed at making people aware about any natural disaster, the NDRF team consisting of eight youths demonstrated important safety measures of any natural calamity before a huge gathering of HoDs, PRI members, GBs, shopkeepers and others.

Sagalee ADC, Jalash Pertin briefed about the safety measures of earthquake, landslide, flash flood and for road safety etc, while NDRF's Umrao Singh Rawat urged people to train others about important safety measures which they have learnt during the programme.

Meanwhile, CO Margam Bagra urged all line departments to submit at least two names with contact numbers of officers for coordination purposes and requested the essential services management department to arrange medicine, ration items in advance.

Senior public leader Nakek Moyong no more

PASIGHAT, Jun 12: Late Nakek Moyong, senior public leader from Mirem village under Bilat Circle, who served his village and areas as GPM, ASM and ZPM, passed away on Friday at around 6 PM at Dibrugarh, Assam after a sudden ailment.

Born on 10 November, 1957 in Mirem village, Moyong graduated from Commerce College, Shillong. He was also the founding President of Asi Mirem Students Union in 1983 and later joined in active politics in 1986. He was elected as GPM and later ASM of Mirem II. Moyong was also elected as ZPM for two consecutive terms from 2003 to 2013.

A prominent leader of 37th Pasighat West constituencies, Moyong was also a known and capable orator in the district. Moyong was also a member of the (Adi-Galo) Peace Committee, appointed by the DC, East Siang.

His last rites were performed on June 10 at his native village, Mirem.

Moyong is survived by his wife, four daughters and three sons.

Meanwhile, MLA 37th Pasighat West cum Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture & Fisheries, Tatung Jamoh has extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.

Former Minister, Tako Dabi also recalled Moyong as one of the most dynamic and true leaders of Legong Banggo Block.

RAR rally on child labour awareness

ITANAGAR, Jun 12: Itanagar-Capital Complex Deputy Commissioner Prince Dhawan on Monday flagged a motorcycle rally of Royal Arunachal Riders (RAR) to create awareness on child labour to mark International Day against Child Labour at Don Bosco Youth Centre, and called upon the gathering of DBYC skill trainees, Don Bosco alumni and Childline staff to work hard to make Itanagar free from the menace of child labour.

Dhawan stressed on the need for freeing the working children and bringing them back to school. He also advised the Childline staff to be alert and sensitive to the issues of child labour and to try to get as many children as possible to educational institutions.

The DC opined that the motorcycle ride by the RAR would be an eye-opener for those people in Itanagar, who have been doing great harm to children by engaging them as domestic help and in various other works.

Father C C Jose, Rector, Don Bosco College, highlighted the importance of the day and the commitment that Don Bosco institutions have towards less fortunate children.

DBYC Director, Father Cyriac briefed on various activities carried out by the RAR for social causes since its formation in 2015.

SP (Fire and Emergency Services) Kimey Aya and General Manager of the Arunachal Pradesh State Cooperative Apex Bank, Tanyang Laling also interacted with the RAR on the occasion.

Arunachal diver qualifies for national championship

ITANAGAR, Jun 12: Yukar Tache has become the first diver from the state to qualify for the National Aquatic Championship to be held at Pune, Maharashtra from June 28 to July 6 next, informed the Arunachal Amateur Aquatic Association (AAAA) in a communiqué on Monday.

A diver of the AAAA, Tache has qualified to represent Arunachal Pradesh in the 34th Sub-Junior and 44th Junior National Championship in two events-High Board and 1 Meter Spring Board.

AAAA General Secretary, Yukar Sibi thanked the Swimming Federation of India for affiliating the Association and allowing the participation of the state in the national championship.

---- Editorial ----

Army is not above law

Congress leader Sandip Dikshit's statement of comparing army chief to street goon is huge disrespect to men in uniform. The political parties should keep army out of politics. Congress leadership led by its vice president Rahul Gandhi immediately distanced itself from his statement. BJP strongly criticized Dikshit and sought apology from Congress president in this regard. In the last 3 year on several occasions Army has been used for propaganda by political parties especially by the ruling party.

For years Indian army has acquired respect and adulation across the world for its secular nature and ability to remain neutral. Indian army is considered to be one of the most discipline armed forces. However gradual politicization of army has started and sadly army is maintaining stoic silence. Also the right wing media and activists try to portray anyone who questions army as anti-national. Even though there is massive admiration and respect for army, people should not forget that army is not above law. In India the constitution is supreme and no one is above it. The armed personnel are also human and prone to committing mistakes. No one should be allowed to save their skin using nationalism as shield.

___________________

---- Readers Forum ----

Rape and patriarchal mentality

Dear Editor,

It torments my heart to witness everyday horrendous news of rapes perpetrated throughout the country. The 2015 National Criminal Records Bureau reports a decline in rape cases from 2014 at 5.7%. It should be noted that this numbers are not indicative of the ground zero situation. This numbers are a result of various complex factors operating at a same time while individually applying varying degrees of influence on the result: Population, literacy, social structure, judicial efficiency are some of the factors. Kerala reported 1256 cases of rape while Bihar reported 1041 cases, despite the fact that population of Bihar is 3 times that of Kerala. The social stigma as well as the delayed judicial system associated also leads to under reporting of rape cases.

It's been 5 years since the sinister Nirbhaya gang rape case which evoked our national consciousness and women safety became a national issue. Nirbhaya fund was created with a corpus of 1000 crore, changes were brought in the juvenile justice system which provided provision for trying 16- 18 years as adults in cases of heinous crime. Fastrack Mahila courts were also established. Even then why rape continues to pest our society, is a question that we need to find answers to. Shakti mills gangrape(2013), rape of six year old at Vibgyor high(2014), Uber rape case and Bulandshahr gangrape cases are some diabolical instances post 2012 December gangrape in Delhi.

The solutions are multi-pronged and require reforms across various institutions.

The final judgment in 2012 December Delhi case came in May 2017 in which the Supreme Court upheld the death sentence of the accused. This 5 year delay in pronouncing judgement will make most of us disillusioned with the judicial system, least of all the resource ridden and economically broke lower strata of the society. The need of the hour is to fast track the cases concerning women safety and introduction of Fast track mahila court has been a move ahead in this direction. The manpower shortage can be addressed by notching up appointment without compromising on quality and by reappointing retired judges. Secondly, the armed forces, men in uniform committing rape under the cover of AFSPA should be tried for rape instead of providing them protection. The essence of AFSPA is to empower the armed forces to fight militancy and anti national element giving them immunity from prosecution. The immunity should not be extended for indulging in looting the dignity of women and sexualised violence. However, the most important step that can be taken is from the ground level of society i.e, Family. There has to be a change in the patriarchal mentality. Sons should be taught to respect women and it should be coupled with the empowerment of women financially as well as socially. Daughters should not be treated as a liability and kept within the confines of kitchen. The performance of girls in CBSE and the fact that three girls from Arunachal Pradesh cleared UPSC 2016 augments the above statement. Proper schooling and parenting of boys is of paramount importance in this mission. The real fight against the social menace called rape can be won in our homes and in our thoughts. Judicial system, policing, changes in legislation will only act as a secondary arm in this struggle.

Yours,

Ajitso Tayang

Mowb II

Reducing our scientific temper to tears

Dear Editor,

Recently, a High Court judge has given a statement to the effect that a peahen drinks peacock's tears to get a peachick! Some years ago, there was mass hysteria when the idols of Lord Ganesha started sucking milk in many parts of our country. Some regressive forces tried to siphon off whatever scientific temper we had at our disposal with such siphoning trick.

It is a shame that no government in our country is eager to help people discharge their fundamental constitutional duty "to develop the scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform;" as enshrined in the Article 51A (h) of our Constitution. Even the government of Kerala had meekly submitted to age - old prejudices of prohibiting women of menstruating age to go on pilgrimage.

Our political parties are going soft towards regressive prejudices or sometimes even using such myths in their favour as they think those nonsense stuffs will give them vote - bank dividend. It is an irony that when Raja Rammohan Roy had successfully guided even a reluctant foreign company (East India) to the path of reform in the eighteen century, Davolkar and the likes could not take us from the narrow lane which is potholed with myths, superstitions and prejudices to the constitutional highway of scientific temper in this twenty-first century.

Given some advertisements for controlling others are mushrooming day by day, they must have been doing a brisk trade. This means that the umpteenth number of our brothers and sisters are being slow poisoned in the name of black magic!

Word has it that some couples are now preferring a Caesarean to normal delivery and specifying the time of incision so that the baby can come out at the auspicious time that has been predicted by their astrologer! If such illogical propaganda in favour of ludicrous myths, superstitions and prejudices is being allowed to be filled the media and thereafter the mind space, then a time is bound to come when we start committing suicides at an auspicious time and place to make ourselves heavenward bound! Indeed, the need of the hour is to stop the menace of further reducing our scientific temper to tears.

Yours,

Sujit De,

Kolkata

___________________

All email and surface mails must be accompanied with contact numbers and full postal address. Do keep writing but please make sure that letters are short and to the point.

---Editor