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2011
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March  - 08

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Political parties react to NSCN (K) statement

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: Political parties in the state has reacted angrily to the NSCN (K) statement in which it had directed all the minister and MLAs to resign from the Dorjee Khandu led Congress government by March 10.

“Handy work of few”

Such statement, accusing the Dorjee Khandu led Government of indulging NSCN (IM) in the State and also as the “killer of Naga people of Tirap and Changlang District” is nothing but to create confusion & panic amongst the common people of the State.

This is purely a handy work & political game of few vested interest people to malign the image of an efficient and popular Chief Minister, said Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee.

APCC appealed the people of the State not to get confused by such cheap statement by anti-social elements, as all the Congress legislators are united and have  full faith in the dynamic & able leadership of Dorjee Khandu as Chief Minister.

The legislators of Tirap and Changlang are the representatives of the people and they are responsible and matured enough to work in the larger interests of the people of the two districts, its spokesperson Vishal P Nabum said.  

Khandu led Government is always working diligently for all round development of the State and all the State and Central Government developmental packages/funds has been equally distributed to all the Districts including Tirap and Changlang. Moreover, a separate Department of Tirap & Changlang (DoTC) has been created to look after the affairs of both the Districts in order to benefit the people, it said.  

The Party further said that if the daily which published the letter of the NSCN (K) feels that it is also a stakeholder in the developmental process as well as peace and tranquillity of the State, they should come with the source of the said letter for authentication.

Don’t interfere: AITC

All India Trinamool Congress, Arunachal Pradesh Unit has strongly condemned the interference by the NSCN (K) in state politics. It is not wise for the underground elements to take part or dictate in the politics of the state, it said.

The interference from outside underground elements in state politics will creates chaos and confusion in the minds of the state, it said.

The party appealed both factions of the NSCN to restrain themselves from interfering in the state politics for the peace and tranquillity of the two district of state, Tirap and Changlang, in particular and the whole state.

NSCN “direction” a silly proposition: NCP

The State NCP president Ngurang Pinch has stated in a release that it is extremely surprising and shocking to find the media report that an outlawed outfit of the north east India NSCN (K) has dared to “direct” MLAs and ministers from Tirap and Changlang to “withdraw support“ from the Dorjee Khandu government.

Apart from the NSCN “direction” being a silly proposition, it also exposes a very uncomfortable fact that the state government appears to have absolved itself from the Tirap-Changlang affair so much so that the NSCN (K) shows the guts for directing the people’s elected representatives from Tirap-Changlang and even threats them of “consequences” if they fail to oblige, observes Pinch.

He added that normally, this directions and threats from a section of NSCN do not deserve attention or comment but since the situation in these two districts has remained alarming for a considerable period of time and as Tirap-Changlang, besides being  sufferers from gross non-development, have been reduced to a battle ground of the warring factions NSCN (K) and NSCN (I-M) causing untold misery to the people of the districts, the state government seems doing precious little to reverse the situation and let the people over there live peacefully.

Now, adding insult to injury, NSCN (K) is issuing directives to the MLAs lawfully elected by the people of Tirap and Changlang to disown the government for which they have been elected. This is not only shameful for the government for letting the thing go to that extent, but it also raises the doubt whether any government is at all there in Tirap and Changlang districts in particular and Arunachal Pradesh in general, Pinch wondered.

NCP spokesperson described the reported threat to the legislators of Tirap and Changlang, as unethical and unaccepted in a democratic set up.

No organization has any right whatsoever to interfere in the democratic process to dictate who would be the chief minister.

Such unethical practices have put a question mark on the democratic process of the state in the past, spokesperson Bamang Felix said.

I am deeply concerned over the oft-repeated fractional clashes in Tirap since mid-December forcing the villagers to escort the cadres, cook for them and guard them round the clock using the villagers as human shield and putting the life of civilians to great risk. Regrettably, both the districts were declared disturbed under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 since September 17, 1991 which has destroyed the peace and development of the people, he added.

BJP question nexus with UG elements

BJP said that the alleged nexus between the leaders of the successive Congress state governments in Arunachal Pradesh with the underground outfit organizations is nothing new since early 1990s from elections to leadership infighting and manipulations of various central funds and corruptions.

The notice as carried in the local media for the MLAs from Tirap Changlang District to 12 MLAs is not a good sign for a state like Arunachal Pradesh and is a matter of serious concern, it said.

The BJP demanded explanations from the state government as to why people of Tirap and Changlang are being victimized and butchered by the party in power and the underground outfits.

It questioned the lack of proper and definite policy measures or steps taken up by the state government.

It further called for impartial and thorough investigations into the alleged Congress leaders nexus with the underground organizations and criminalization of Politics. Innocent populations have to bear the brunt of such nexus, it said.

The party said that given the situation special provision as envisaged under the Constitution of Indian giving special power to the institution of Governor of Arunachal Pradesh should be invoked, if required.

 

Ete receives best farmers’ award at North-East Zone Regional Agri-Fair

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: Altogether 16 Farmers from different blocks of West Siang District led by Agriculture Development Officers Jumdo Jini and Nitum Riba represented Arunachal Pradesh in the recently concluded North-East Zone Regional Agri-Fair'2010-11at Megalaya from February 28- March 2.

The event was organised by the ICAR Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya and co-sponsored by the NEC and NABARD.

On the occasion, Kade Ete, a progressive farmer, from Gune-Bane Village, Aalo has been felicitated with best farmer’s award for his innovation in multiple cropping in his composite Agriculture Farm at his native Village.

The farmers have also visited Central Potato Research Station, Shillong and interacted with the scientists and discussed at length on various diseases & pest in Potatoes and learnt about techiniques of potato storage.  The farmers were selected from the 12 Blocks of West Siang District under Agriculture reform programme through ATMA and RKVY West Siang District; for Inter-state exposure visits during the Financial Year 2010-1 l.

The fair was inaugurated by Governor of Meghalaya as the Chief Guest and the valedictory function was attended by the secretary NEC, Shillong as Chief Guest.

Farmers from NE States participated at the Agri-Fair.

 

Tuki wishes on IWD

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: On the eve of 100 years of the International Women’s Day, APCC president and PWD Minister Nabam Tuki today expressed hope that the womenfolk of the state would play a pivotal role in the socioeconomic and political development of the state in the years to come.

Pointing out that Arunachalee women have proved their mettle in various fields including in man-dominated ones, like mountaineering, literature and sports and games, Tuki, in a statement, wished the state’s women a very successful celebration to renew their resolve for a better tomorrow. The Congress-led UPA government is committed to the all-round development of women through their empowerment and emancipation, Tuki said, adding the party’s commitment to the cause was proved beyond doubt with President of India (Dr Pratibha Devisingh Patil) and president of the oldest party of the country (Sonia Gandhi) being women.

 

Four arrested for tiger poaching

Itanagar, Mar 7: Four persons have been arrested by forest officials at Dibang Valley districts, for their alleged involvement in poaching of tigers.

One arrest was made at Anini while the three others, reportedly all women were made in Roing.

The alleged poachers are reported to have come from Haryana on tourist permits.

The details are being awaited.

Officials from wild life board, Delhi are expected to arrive in the two districts to ascertain the facts on Tuesday.

From 40,000 in 1947, the population of tiger has shrunken to about 1,400 today, prompting the government to launch a nationwide tiger conservation program, pumping in billions of rupees every year.

 

AAPSU launch tirade against ghutka

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: The All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union has launched tirade against gutkha and pan masala.

Gutkha, an addictive with brand names of Tiranga, Shikar, Rajnigandha etc. is sold at pan shops. AAPSU and other organizations have time and again appealed for administrative steps to curb the sale of gutkha.

AAPSU president Takam Tatung said that the decision was necessitated in view of mushrooming consumers especially amongst students and youths. “Chewing gutkha is not only hazardous but it also litters our beautiful place. Everywhere; be it school, hospital office and other major one is welcomed with red-stain which reflects poorly on our civic senses”.  

As part of its modus operandi, the apex students union will be raiding against the gutkha, starting from capital complex, to make Arunachal a gutkha- free-state. However, it urged the districts administration to help them in their noble endeavor and ensure that the hazardous substances are not sold in the shops.  

This is worth mentioning that the Supreme Court has banned on sale of tobacco products like gutkha and pan masala in plastic sachets. Respecting the verdict, many States have abided by the decree.

It is reported that 86 percent of oral cancer in the world originate from India and of these, 90 per cent are from chewing tobacco products.

 

Unsatisfactory performance of banks in Tirap

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: District Level Consultative Committee (DCC) meeting was held at Khonsa, Tirap district on March 3 to review the performance of banks in the district for the quarter ended 31 December 2010.

The important issues discussed were CD Ratio, Kisan Credit Cards, and recovery position of loans issued under agriculture. The target for CD ratio is 60% and the achievement so far is only 28.31%. The number of KCCs issued as on the quarter ended December 2010 was 49 against target of 200 which was 24.50% achievement. The statutory norms for lending under priority sector of 40% were fulfilled with the achievement made by the banks at 40.68% and the target of 18% for agriculture within the priority sector was also just achieved.  

DC advised the bankers to take due care in identification of beneficiaries for better recovery and take necessary steps for improvement of CD ratio in the district.

MM Majumder, Chief Manager, Lead Bank requested bankers in the district to take the help of NABARD for promoting farmers clubs, SHGs and implement various developmental schemes which will ultimately improve the CD ratio.

SBI branch Manager Khonsa, opined that disbursements under business is not picking up as the license holders are local people while businesses are run by the people coming from outside the State.

Upendra Bagh and K. Vaiphei, officers from NABARD,   explained the various schemes of NABARD for improving credit flow and requested the bankers to extend credit to the people trained under the schemes.

 

Center to release RD funds

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: Union Rural Development Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh has assured early release of Rs 150 crore pleaded for by Arunachal Pradesh RWD Minister Kalikho Pul during his meeting with the former recently.

Disclosing it to this daily today immediately after receiving communication from the union minister, Pul said this could be possible because of his forceful presentation of the ground realities of this hilly, landlocked, sparsely populated state through an official memorandum, which he had submitted to the minister in his Delhi office.

Arunachal Pradesh, the sensitive eastern most border state of the country, though listed in the ‘special category’ among 12 states in the country, deserves special consideration because of its strategic importance, hilly terrain, harsh and hostile climate and unfriendly topography that increases the cost of any developmental project, Pul reasoned.

Pointing out that the national criteria for infrastructure development cannot be applicable to this state, Pul pleaded for considering connectivity proposals for habitations with 250+  population, saying a review is necessary for Arunachal Pradesh where only 12.3% habitations fall under the category. His other requests included increase of length of bridges from 50 mtr span to 150 mtr, increase of road length from 5.5 mtr road  to at least 7 mtr and fund for maintenance of the created infrastructure, which get eroded by long spell of rain for about seven months in a year.

The transportation cost of materials is very high in the state, which leaves the project topsy-turvy, he told the minister.

On his invitation to attend the review meeting of RD ministers of NE states here in April next, Deshmukh consented to visit the state to know the ground realities for himself, Pul informed.

 

Former Kurung Kumey DC Yowa Takar passes away

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: Former Kurung Kumey DC Yowa Takar passed away at his residence, model village, Naharlagun on March 6 after prolonged illness.

Born in 1st March, 19 46,   Late Yowa Takar completed his graduation from J N College, Pasighat in 1968  and  joined Govt service as junior teacher on July 11, 1968. Later  he was appointed as sub-inspector of  school in 1971 and also passed B T from Guwahati University the same year.

On the merit of this bureaucratic acumen, he was appointed as circle officer in 1976,  promoted to APCS –II as EAC on Feb 2, 1990 and as ADC on July 28, 1998. Subsequently   he was posted in Kurung Kumey as DC and retired on superannuation on Feb 29, 2004.

He also served the state in various other capacities like DRDA project director (1993 -2002)  and director of land record. Various organizations including Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU),  Doimukh Youth Association (DYA) expressed deep sock at the untimely demise of Yowa Takar.

The death of Takar is an irreparable loss to the state. He will  always  be remembered by the people of the state for his dedication and  sincere service towards the  upliftment of the society, the APCC  said in a condolence message.

ANSU in its condolence message said, apart from being an administrator par excellence, late Takar rendered tireless service for the cause of the  Nyisity society.  His contributions towards the state and the society will always be remembered in years to come, the union said.

The people of  Doimukh in particular and  state as a whole lost an efficient administrator and able leader due to death of Yowa Takar, DYA said in a message.

The rank and file of the APCC, ANSU and DYA conveyed deep sense of condolence to the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty for eternal peace of the departed soul.

AAPSU mourns death of Takar

ITANAGAR Mar 7: The All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union has deeply mourned the demise of Yowa Takar, former Deputy Commissioner who passed away last evening at his Model Village residence.  In a condolence message, AAPSU conveyed its heartfelt

condolence to the bereaved family. It said that his departure is an irreparable loss to the people of Arunachal.

 

Redress grievances of widows: BJP

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Arunachal Pradesh called upon the state government to address the grievances of the widows of policemen in the state. The party said that Govt should evolve necessary welfare measures with humane touch for the wellbeing of the widows.

Claiming that various state Govts in the country have formulated policies and programmes  for police personnel and  their families and widows, like compassionate appointments and stipends to their children, the party said that there must be recruitment rules and  other welfare measures with the state Police administration for the  wellbeing of police force.

The BJP media cell in a release further said that the anomalies and manipulations in various departments under the successive Congress governments in the state as exposed through RTI from various quarters indicates how the democratically elected government have been functioning legalizing the illegalities. Despite HC ruling prohibiting illegal means of recruitment process like adhoc appointments, state Govt has time and again taken the  same root through one time relaxations in almost all the departments, the party said  while adding that large number of illegal appointments were made  without following the recruitment rules and  as such  the deserving candidates were deprived of.

BJP alleged that the posting and transfer and placements of the key officers are randomly made to serve the purpose of the leaders in power than development interest.

Questioning the existence of any vigilance department in the state, the party further asked  whom  the people  will approach for redressal of their grievances.

The BJP demanded proper enquiry and investigations by independent agency on the merit of ‘one time special relaxation’ of recruitment implemented in the state.

 

Efforts to save Mishmi Takin

TEZU, Mar 7: Wildlife Care Society of Mishmi (WCSM) in collaboration with Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) launched a series of awareness campaign to protect and preserve the habitats of Mishmi Takin (Takan), a high altitude species that belongs to goat antelope family. It is mainly found in the Mishmi Hills, which covers four districts of Lohit, Dibang Valley, Lower Dibang Valley and Anjaw.

The campaign was conducted during the annual conference of Cultural and Literary Society of Mishmi (CALSOM) held at Hawai in Anjaw district and also during Tamla-Du festival at Tafragam village, Tezu on Feb 15 last.

The WCSM Society is a community initiative to protect and conserve the biodiversity of the Mishmi Hills.

Mishmi Takin faces high risk of extinction due to rampant hunting and habitat loss. It is listed under Schedule –I species of Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and has been categorized as Vulnerable and threatened species.

The Society also undertook Mishmi Takin distribution survey in the area bordering Lohit, Anjaw and Dibang Valley with the help and technical support of the WTI. A seminar on the importance of wildlife and the impact of hunting was also conducted recently at office chamber of DC Tezu. Mr Dilip Deori from WTI, resource person informed the seminar on habitats of the Mishmi Takin and the importance of conserving the species from extinction.

The seminar was attended by Chief Conservator of Forest, Eastern Circle, ADC, Tezu, DFO, Anjaw District, villagers including Gaon Buras and PRI representatives

Local villagers of Boo Clan from Loiliang Village, Tezu has offered land for Community Conservation Area (CCA) in the high altitude mountain areas where the endangered Mishmi Takin and other important wild species has been traced.

A baseline survey for the proposed CCA that concluded on 2nd March last was conducted by donor clan and WTI members.

 

SSA contract workers on pen and tool down

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: Arunachal Pradesh Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Contractual Employees Association (APSSACEA) has decided to go for the second phase of ‘Pen and Tool Down” agitation in protest against non-fulfillment of its various demand from March 8 to 9.

Despite submission of several memoranda urging the Government for fulfillment of our demands, no initiative has been taken yet by the authority to redress the grievances, APSSACEA said in its letter to Commissioner Education and Director of School Education cum State Project Director, SSA Rajya Mission today. APSSACEA has been demanding for 50% hike in salary of all the employees working under SSA establishment (Ministerial staff), regularization of services of SSA non-teaching staff in line with SSA teachers and clarification regarding an advertisement by Director of School Education.

 

Papum Pare completes formalities for Trans-Arunachal Highway

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: The Deputy Commissioner, Papum Pare District Pige Ligu handed over land acquisitioned for construction of district connectivity cum Trans-Arunachal Highway to Er.B.Pelen, Executive Engineer (Highway), Doimukh Division today.

The land handed over comprises of 0.00KM to 6.700KM and 39.500KM to 53.00KM located in Pappu Nallah to Nyorch river and water fall point to Potin.

It stated that land handed over to the requiring department are free from encumbrance after exercising the codal formalities as per the Jhum Land Regulation Act,1947, and by paying adequate compensation to the affected land owners as per the govt approved rates.

With the handing and taking over of entire stretch of proposed District Connectivity cum Trans Arunachal Highway from Pappu Nallah to Potin( KM 0.00 to Km 53.00) the whole process of land acquisition of the project have been completed.

Earlier in Jan, stretch falling under jurisdiction of Deputy Commissioner was handed over.

LRSO Techi Hitlar briefed the officers about the details of land acquisitions and other related matters and expressed his satisfaction over successful completion of land acquisition works of the district.

It is worthwhile to mention that Papum Pare District is first District in Arunachal to implement the Trans-Arunachal Highway road project under the special PMs Package. The All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union has deeply mourned the demise of Yowa Takar, former Deputy Commissioner who passed away last evening at his Model Village residence.  In a condolence message, AAPSU conveyed its heartfelt condolence to the bereaved family. It said that his departure is an irreparable loss to the people of Arunachal.

 

State govt’s apathy towards Ruksin area decried

Prafulla Kaman

RUKSIN, Mar 7: Several sub divisional office set up at Ruksin in East Siang district is yet to be established, which is a major impediment in socio-economic development of the area.

Senior citizens have decried the state government’s apathy towards the development of the important border area.  

 Ruksin administrative sub-division may appear to have grown from some perspectives in the last decades, but the ground reality at times denotes that the very meaning of development has not yet encompassed the densely populated villages spread across three circles- Ruksin, Bilat and Oyan-Silley. Basic amenities are still eluding the area while the residents are crying for rural road connectivity.

 Ruksin area has a strategic importance as there is an inner line point to enter Siang belt and Dibang valley of East Arunachal.

Moreover, various anti social activists are reportedly using the National Highway-52 passing along Assam-Arunachal border.

Declared as a full pledged sub division in 1952, the people of the sub division are yet to see important offices. No sub divisional office of agriculture and allied departments, PWD, handloom & textile, industry,

PHE, panchayat office, employment exchange and others have been established so far. Moreover, due to lack of office building, the Block Development Office, Circle office and sub post are operating from the SDO office.  There is an agriculture field station near the SDO office, which is running without necessary infrastructure.

But, the people have been demanding separate BDO and Sub divisional Agriculture Office to facilitate the local farmers in various agricultural activities.

The Mirem-Mikong-Jonai (MMJ) PWD road, which is the vital lifeline of the villagers to communicate with bordering Assam and interior Arunachal villages has been lying un-repaired for decades. About 14 km stretch of the road is in deplorable state, causing problems to the commuters.

Establishment of a fire station at Ruksin town is a long pending public demand.

Residential quarters, Police colony, forest office buildings, APST station and other business establishment are within a limited site and the area is prone to fire hazards.

“Lack of a fire station at Ruksin is forcing us to seek help from Jonai police station of Assam near here”, a police officer said.

 

For a cause called VKV School

Chayang Tajo, Mar 7: They are poor, old and barefooted. All they earn is a paltry sum of about 4000 bucks each in a year as ‘honorarium’ from the state government in return of their services. Yet for the cause of establishment of a VKV school at Chayang Tajo they are more than ready to donate half of the honorarium, no matter, even if it meant two-bag-less rice for them.

The gaon burahs (village elders) of Chayang Tajo, with this, go on to show that they got big hearts if not big literate heads.

“In addition to this (honorarium), I’ll give away one mithun to the cause,” declares, amidst a loud applause, Taffe Eri, the president of Chayang Tajo Goan Burah Welfare Association. “No body could better understand than us what it meant to be not educated,” he adds while speaking in a public meeting on 27th February last.

A day before the said public meeting, Honchun Ngandam, Minister for Horticulture, had laid the foundation stone of Vivekanda Kendriya Vidyalaya at SIB complex Chayang Tajo in presence of Karya Bagang, the local MLA and hundreds of villagers. The minister on the same day graced the NyokumYullo Festival’s eventful sacrifice day as chief guest while the director horticulture, J Ratan as the guest of honour.

The native government servants, Panchayat members and general publics, toeing the line of goan burahs’ generosity, also pledged to part away with some fortunes from their earnings to the VKV’s cause. While, some offered to donate in kind like fowls, cattle and timbers, the landowners of the proposed school site declared to donate the entire land (about 3 hectares) for free of cost.

“The establishment of VKV here at Chayang Tajo shall be a dream come true for me as I found VKV chain of schools one the bests in Arunachal Pradesh,” says Tara Bagang, a senior public leader of the area, who played a pivotal role together with his wife Karya Bagang in getting the government and VKV AP Trust’s approval for establishment of VKV school at Chayang Tajo.

Pointing out that the establishment of VKV at Chayang Tajo would be one the remarkable achievements for her constituency in recent time, Karya Bagang, at her humble best, said, “the school will not belong to me or my family members or anyone in particular but to all. So please join hands in my efforts. There should not be partisan politics in development.”  She appreciated the generous initiatives of the GBs, local government servants, panchayat members and land donors.  

This outburst of public generosity was apparently triggered by the VKV AP Trust’s pre-conditions of Rupees ten crore one-time corpus fund for establishment of VKV at Chayang Tajo in addition to infrastructure and free land. The proceeds from voluntary donations will help to make a beginning but are not enough to meet up the actual requirements. The local MLA and well-wishers of the school are scratching their heads looking for sources to the corpus fund. The resources available with the MLA are limited. Hence, undeniably, all hopeful eyes are set on the generosity of the Dorjee Khandu led government.

  While Minister Honchun Ngandam have already committed his support to all efforts for materialization of the corpus fund, an steering committee for establishment of VKV at Chayang Tajo was formed with the local MLA as chairperson, Tara Bagang as advisors, Ashok Tajo, Deputy Project Director SSA (A.P) by virtue of his being a native of area, SDO Chayang Tajo and 10 others as members. Coordinators (two each) from Sawa, Pipu-Dipu and Gyawepurang circles, which fall under 9-Chayang Tajo Assembly Constituency, have also been nominated. A separate committee had also been formed to raise fund through public donation.

The positive thing about the movement for establishment of VKV at Chayang Tajo is that peoples irrespective of the party line and individual differences stand united for the cause.

 

Emerging women leaders who transformed a community

Rakhe Maria & Boni Anima

Fr. Ivan Vas SVD

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: The residents of Kamporijo Circle in Lower Subansiri District were leading a marginalized existence both socially and economically for a long time. Majority of them being migrated from interior villages and settled around the hillocks, life was a hard battle.

On a visit to the area in 2006 Itanagar Diocesan Empowerment Association (IDEA) team identified two women who could be a catalyst within, in the time to come. So both Maria and Anima were sent for a two months intensive training in Integrated Development and Community Management that brought winds of change within themselves and the community. Soon after the completion of the training these two women returned with confidence and courage to shape the destiny of a so far hidden community.

An unfolding success story

The first step Maria and Anima had taken was to share their dream to the village women and assure them an era of change. Under the guidance of IDEA soon these barefoot leaders initiated the formation of women self-help groups.

The participants were apprehensive because participation in the SHG would mean extra burden on them. Family chores consumed most of their time and they feared they had no education to comprehend the idea of an SHG.

The challenge was accepted by both Maria and Anima who were already impressed by the work of SHGs during their training and exposure program in Assam, Manipur, Tamil Nadu, Pune, etc. They took the mantle of the leader and tried to motivate village women.

More than five years on, Maria and Anima and other members are happy to note what they have achieved for their community. The beginning has been small, yet incisive. The baby step has turned into a big stride soon and transformed the way the Boasimla community was looked at by others. Presently there are 45 SHGs and 42 farmer’s Clubs, 2 village schools, a number of pretty shops of SHGs and undertaken several rural livelihood programmes.

Informed women are powerful women

IDEA is committed to form Informed Women as a catalyst for change, offering new energy, drawing on long-standing ideas and values, and bringing together men and women from different societies and communities in a shared endeavour.

Capacity building of primary and secondary stakeholders is the major work of IDEA. Training include – training of trainers in participatory methodology, step by step in approaching sustainable SHGs, livelihood promotion and community based micro-finance institutions, expanding women’s voice, leadership and participation; ending violence against women; ensuring women’s full participation in conflict resolution; enhancing women’s economic empowerment; and gender equality.

They truly value education as one's foundation in life. Two years ago the collective action of IDEA SHG Women paved the way for two village kindergarten schools to ensure the education of every child in the village. Their hard work with the support of IDEA has changed the way they raise and educate their children today.

Nurtured by IDEA Maria and Anima have engineered their way to lead the women to success. They groom the young and old alike through IDEA street theatre team, presenting a number of street plays, dance, drama on social transformation and upliftment.

Together with few more drop-out girls from the villages Maria and Anima were also trained in rural health care by IDEA. Being in a Malaria prone area they are there with their expertise and caring hand to reach out to the hundreds of villagers with preventive health care and those that are affected and ailing they accompany them to the St. Anne’s Health centre at Boasimla.

Creating a socio-economic space from the realms of wilderness

The small savings of these SHGs is emerging into a micro credit revolution in the area; creating pockets of economic power and giving rural women the opportunity to chart their own course of livelihood. They help the village women to apply for loans and schemes, advise them where they have to go, discuss whom to meet, etc.

They are in the process of overcoming poverty through group economic and saving activities. Subsequently, the SHGs have commenced internal lending. Intrigued by their promptness, dynamism of the members and their creditworthiness of the SHGs, NABARD has come forward to support the Farmer’s Clubs.

They have started exploring the possibilities of starting income generating activities.  They have taken over 25 acres of land on lease and have begun horticulture, agronomy and varied agro-based activities.

From simple ignorant women who could not even speak up for themselves they have metamorphosed into confident decision makers, investors and mentors to their families.

Day by day they are seeing a way to make things better. They are big dreamers and big doers. They have become a house hold name and exemplary role models for rural women in the Lower Subansiri District. Truly an IDEA has changed their life.

In this centenary year of International Women’s Day let us join together to celebrate the achievements, hopes and aspirations of Maria and Anima and their women groups who have transformed the lives of so many women in the remotest villages. (The contributor is Director of Itanagar Diocesan Empowerment Association (IDEA)

 

Meet on 5th North East Chess Championship

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: All Arunachal Pradesh Chess Association (AAPCA), in a meeting yesterday, discussed various issues relating to development of the game in Arunachal as well as the 5th North East Championship to be held in the state in January next year.

The meeting, after a threadbare discussion, unanimously dissolved the recently formed committee constituted for conduct of the regional chess championship and empowered the president and general secretary of AAPCA to form a new committee for the same purpose. The meeting also decided to promote the game of 64 squares in village, school and college level.

 

14 - member Arunachal team for Karate championship

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: A 14-member karate team from Arunachal Pradesh, including two officials, left here today for New Delhi to participate in the two-day All India Karate-Do-Championship beginning at Talkatora Indoor Stadium, New Delhi on March 11.

The squad:

Kofa Raje, Richi Kagung, Rajkumar Medak, Bamenso Towsik, Promot Khomte, Lenjiv Congo, Talin Natam, Matu Mugli, Tatam Pangeng, Kakio Siga, Pacha Nobin Jamoh, Elinso Kri, Tagri Raju (Coach), Tadar Eba (Manager).

 

APFA names 24 probables for NE Games

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: Arunachal Pradesh Football Association (APFA) has named 24 probables for the North East Games scheduled to begin at Dirang, West Kameng district from second week of April, 2011. Selection trial/coaching of the probables to select the main team would be held at Sangey Lhaden Sports Academy playground from March 15 onwards.

The names of the probables:

Tapi Apa, Kaling Dabi, Gyamar Omi (Goalkeepers), Dani Vicky, Padi Johny, Tai Bhai, Bamin Susil, Tarh Rajkumar, Atum Bagang, Pura Bhai, Habung Takar (Defenders), Ganga Rimo, Koj Chatu, Kangkiram Moyong, Nyado Tao, Techi Takar, Kaya Sango (Midfielder), Loi Kena, Taba Rakesh, Techi Tassar, Toko Polium, Tero Dodum, Kabum Rovi, Pani Raju (Forward).

 

Welly visits Papu Valley, assures development

PIJIRANG, Mar 7:  WRD  and  Civil Aviation Minister Atum Welly has conducted a two-day tour to Palin, Pakro, Pijirang CO headquarter and Veo Natung of East Kameng district on March 5 and 6 and assured development of the area in a phase wise manner.

After inspecting the new office building of CO, Pijirang, the minister directed

executing agency PWD to submit the estimate for the complete renovation of the office building. He also assured to provide fund from his MLAD for its renovation.

 Stressing the need to make the CO office fully functional, the minister said  it would be difficult to run the administration  for Govt officials without proper office which ultimately hampers the development process.

Responding to the memorandum submitted by the villagers, the minister informed that the proposal for the drinking water supply amounting to Rs 45 lac have been made and soon to be submitted in the govt. level for approval. Regarding extension of the road to school point and up gradation of the school, Welly further said that a proposal have also been made through the concern department.  However he made it clear that he shall talk with MLA Tani Loffa for the construction of the suspension bridge over Papu River.  

Responding the memorandum at Veo Natung, the Minister informed that proposal for the construction of compound wall at Veo M E School have been made under DDSE, Seppa and assures to take up the matter at Govt level  for approval of fund. Regarding the upgradation of the ME School, Veo, the Minister informed that the matter has already been taken up.

Meanwhile Welly appealed all the people of Papu Valley to maintain the quality of work in the ongoing 17 crore MIP project under  the  Valley. According to WRD department, the project consist of 86 minor irrigation  schemes is nearing completion.

Govt officers including the engineers accompanied the minister during his visit. DIPRO

 

SLIC meeting cum awareness prog on monuments and antiquities

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: The first ever State Level Implementation Committee (SLIC) meeting on the National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities (NMMA) is going to be held on March 9 at Itanagar to review the activities and achievement of NMMA documentation works, approval of budget among others.  This would be followed by  two days’ awareness programme on importance of documentation, preservation, conservation of the ancient monuments like Itafort, Malinithan, Bhismaknagar, Vijoynagar, Rani Gomsi etc, and  antiquities like sculpture, statues and other items of cultural values (not less than 75 years old) and heritage like monasteries, Gompa/Vihar and other  ancient historical building of 60 years old.

Chief Information Commissioner  Y D Thongchi has consented to be the chief guest of the inaugural session of the programme on  March 10.  NMMA director Dr. R S Fonia and other experts of Archaeological Survey of India, New Delhi, Kolkata and Guwahati will participate and deliver lecture on the topic with audio, video means and photo-exhibition at J.N. State Museum, Itanagar on  March 10 and 11. The officers  from the Directorate of Research and district level  officers of research directorate and representatives of the institutional museums and NGOs  from various places including Tawang, Bomdila, Chongkham will participate in the programme.

The NMMA was constituted in 2007 with a director as its head and actual activities of documentation and constitution of State Level Implementation Committee (SLIC) began since January 2010.

In Arunachal Pradesh, the SLIC was constituted in January' 2010 with the Commissioner/Secretary, Department of Cultural Affairs, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, as the chairman with nominees from Government of India and state Government as members and Superintending Archaeologist, Guwahati Circle as Member Secretary.

Tage Tada, state Director of Research is one of the members of the SLIC and also the State Project Coordinator, NMMA with effect from June 2010.

 

Basar, first Arunachalee to get Phd in law

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: Dr. Topi Basar, Daughter of Dakto Basar of Village Gori, District West Siang has been conferred with Doctorate degree  in Law on Feb 26 at the 88th Annual Convocation of Delhi University.

Her Ph.D. research was in Legal Protection of Traditional Knowledge in India which is an important area in the present intellectual property regime. She hopes to publish her thesis into a book in near future.

She did her LL.B, LL.M and Ph.D. from Faulty of Law, University of Delhi. She is also the first  Arunachalee to get Masters in Law(L.L.M.) and thereafter the first Ph.D. in Law from the State.

She is currently working as an Assistant Professor at the same Faculty of Law, Delhi University since 2005.

 

NABARD prog on developmental and promotional schemes

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: NABARD Arunachal Pradesh Regional Office in collaboration with District Administration Tirap also organized a one-day workshop on the developmental and promotional schemes of NABARD for the educated unemployed youth, farmers and SHGs at Khonsa on March 4.

Deputy Commissioner, Tirap W. Lowang, inaugurated the workshop which was attended by ADC Khonsa, officials from DRDA, line departments, bankers, Scientist from KVK and representatives of NGOs with resource persons from NABARD.

DC, while inaugurating the workshop appreciated the efforts of NABARD in reaching out to the rural people for livelihood promotion and advised the necessity of creating a few successful models to motivate the educated unemployed youth and to take the programmes on a larger scale in the district.

He also identified, during his discussion with NABARD officials, activities like wood carving, broom making, handloom weaving and buffalo and pig rearing as potential activities for the district.

Upendra Bagh, AGM, NABARD in his welcome explained the participants about the objective of the workshop.

K Vaiphei, Manager NABARD made power point presentation on the various schemes of NABARD under farm and non-farm sectors covering Farmers Club, Self Help Groups, Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programmes, Cluster, Rural Mart, Rural Haat and support available for innovative ideas and activities. In addition to NABARD programmes, he also explained the various capital subsidy and interest free loan based schemes implemented by GOI with NABARD as nodal agency such as dairy, poultry and pig development, rearing of  sheep, goat, rabbit,  buffalo and solar energy scheme under Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission.      

The participants actively took the help of NABARD officials for preparing their proposals. KVK Deomali was advised to explore possibilities of implementing a project with kiwi as the main crop under Tribal Development Fund in the higher altitude areas of the district.  

DRDA would prepare and submit rural haat proposals for selected locations. NABARD assured conducting similar programmes at the block and circle level in collaboration with District Administration. DC assured that he would recommend viable proposals from the district to NABARD for sanction.

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News Impact

ASHA’s get bicycle

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: ASHAs of Lekang Block of Lohit district procured bicycle each for their easy movement while they are discharging duties.  

They procured the bicycles from Village Health & Sanitation untied fund after consultation with EAC and PRI members.

This is for the first time in the state such management for the ASHAs have been done.

On Mar 2, the ZPM of the Lekang block handed over the bicycles to the ASHAs.  

DMO, Dr.N.Ninu, DRCHO Dr.Nani Rika and MO i/c Dr C.Manchay Mahadepur PHC were present during the programme.

 

Awareness programe

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: Mangha Welfare Society working for uplifting the socio-economic status of marginalized people in villages of Kurung Kumey district organized awareness programme on issues like women empowerment, child nutrition and modern sanitationetc. at Yangte and Tagum villages under Sangram circle recently.

Over 50 participants from various SHGs, farmers clubs and women groups have been benefited by the social awareness programme which was sponsored by Arunachal Pradesh State Social Welfare Board.

An interaction session with the participants on the key topics was also held. Hiba Tanak, ASM,  Biri Rajaram, Teacher, Govt Primary school Sangram, Ngurang Tado, president, MWS were the resource persons.

 

Committee appeals for relief

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: Nyokum Lapang Welfare Committee (NLWC) has appealed to the state government to provide immediate relief and other necessary assistance to the fire victims of Nyokum Lapang for their quick rehabilitation.

It also appealed to all sports lovers and others to follow the  guidelines of the committee while using the Nyokum Lapang ground which is open for them from 2 pm to 6 pm.

 

Union alleges of fake engineering degree

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) Chief Editor Karik Osik lodged a FIR against Yingkiong Executive Engineer WRD Tadam Kamcham at police station, Yingkiong today for allegedly holding and submitting a fake B. Tech Civil Engineering Degree certificate to Government of Arunachal Pradesh.

Osik alleged that the B. Tech Civil Engineering Degree Certificate by the Executive Engineer, is fake as per the information collected from the Sir Chhotu Ram Institute of Engineering and Technology, Ch. Charan Singh University Campus, Meerut.

He further said that, as per the information gathered from the Director, SCR institute of Engineering and Technology, CCS University Campus, Meerut, the institute is not offering B. Tech Civil Engineering course.

Tadam was never enrolled as a student at this institute; if he represents himself as a student of institute then the case is totally false and wrong, read the Director’s letter.

Osik appealed to the Chief Minister, Home Minister, Governor and Chief Secretary to intervene in the matter immediately and also appealed the Officer In-charge, Police Station Yingkiong to arrest Kamcham.

 

APGDLU postpone Dharna

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: All Arunachal Pradesh Government Departmental Labour Union (APGDLU) conducted its executive meeting at its office today.

In the meeting the house unanimously decided to postpone its proposed Dharna against Arunachal Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board, Chairman cum AAPWU President Jalley Sonam.

 

Phd for ZebinaTaki

ITANAGAR Mar 7: Zebina Taki has qualified for degree of philosophy (Ph.D) for her thesis titled ‘Adi Lok Sahitya Ka Sanskritik Adhayan’.

She conducted her research work under the supervision of professor AK Nath, HOD, department of Hindi Tezpur University and formerly HOD of Hindi department RGU.

Zebina Taki has become the first candidate to have conducted research in folk literature of Adi in Hindi. She will be conferred Ph.D degree at the next RGU convocation ceremony.

 

SSA teachers appeals for release of salary and arrear

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: All Arunachal Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Teachers Association (AASSATA) East Kameng District Unit appealed to the concerned authority to release the three months Salary and remaining five months arrear of the SSA teachers immediately.

They claimed that the SSA teachers are serving without salary for last three months and thereby facing hardship in their day to day management.

They further expressed displeasure over the delay in payment of their arrear and said that the five months arrear of the SSA teachers are still pending which should be released as early as possible.

 

Ultimatum for arrest

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: Itanagar Market Welfare Association and All Arunachal Pradesh Drugs Shopkeepers Association (AAPDSA) have jointly served a day’s ultimatum to the law enforcing authority to arrest those involved in vandalism of a city based pharmacy.

“Some ‘ill-minded’ youths have repeatedly torched the Life Care Pharmacy, Ganga and manhandled its staff on Sunday and Monday,” IMWA informed in a release. They didn’t spare even the doctor sitting in side the pharmacy, it added.

The affray which started yesterday after a little altercation between the shopkeepers and the youths was mutually settled yesterday by Police so that the incident do not recur, IMWA informed.

Both the associations have threatened to close down the pharmacies of Itanagar for a indefinite period if the culprits are not arrested within the given period. It also decided to lodge an FIR with police against the culprits.

 

Tuki meets Selja

ITANAGAR, Mar 7: Minister, PWD and UD Nabam Tuki held a meeting with Union Minister, Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Kumari Selja in New Delhi and requested to clear several projects in her Ministry.

The Union Minister has assured to sanction the maximum projects which have been submitted by the state Govt.

Parliamentary Secretary, Urban Development Tangham Wangham and Director, Urban Development Taba Tedir accompanied the minister.

 

Mushroom Training at Nongtham

ITANAGAR, March 7: The AMYAA (NGO) of Namphai-I, Miao organized training in Mushroom Cultivation for 30 Women participants comprising mainly of Kimsing and Atapha SHGs members, Nongtham Village, Kharsang of Changlang District.

The resource persons R. K. Paul Chawang Secretary (AMYAA), Jangam Pansa, Staff of AMYAA, Taikam Jugli, Roilu Nyaimong and Hongnem Taikam  facilitated the training.

The training in Mushroom Cultivation was organized by the AMYAA (NGO) at the request of Nongtham Village SHGs after the success of Mushroom Cultivation by the Sanya SHG of Khasan Village, Kharsang Circle.

The Participants prepared 45 Mushroom Cylinders.

The interest and vigor shown by each participants of the training made the training programme a success, said an NGO release.

The AMYAA (NGO) with her various short and long term programmes follows the bottom-top approach aims at redefining the lives of the rural poor in the target areas of the organization.

 

NMWC silver jubilee celebration

ITANAGAR: Arunachal Chamber of Commerce and Industries, president Techi Lala and Bazar Welfare Committee, Naharlagun, General Secretary Tok Buttung have consented to attend as Chief Guest and Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony of the Silver Jubilee Celebration of Nirjuli Market Welfare Committee at Nyokum ground, Nirjuli on March 19.

Games and Sports, cultural events including trade, fun and food fairs and flower show are the major attraction of the eight-day long silver jubilee celebration, said a release.

 

New ALSU team sworn in

ITANAGAR: New team of Arunachal Law Students Union (ALSU) was sworn in today.

In a simple ceremony held at Nyikum Niya Hall, Nirjuli, the recently elected ALSU executives led by president Tadar Tarish and General secretary Romik Jagu were sworn in along with other members.

Present on the occasion was outgoing ALSU executive members and election commission members led by chief election commissioner Chera Tamak.

Copyright © 2008, The Arunachal Times Publications Pvt. Ltd., Siang House, Sector - E, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh - 791111, India

All rights reserved.

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Stand up for Arunachal

Dear Editor,

This is in reference to article “Withdraw support from Khandu Govt: NSCN (K)” dated 7th march. It was shocking to see the letter from the chief of NSCN (K).

As per my knowledge is concerned, leaders from Tirap & Changlang had given asylum to these militant organizations for political gain without realizing what would be its negative impact in near future.

Now the time has come for them to pay the price for their deeds.

Is it a political trick to throw the curtain on public eye by using the name of NSCN (K)? If not then what leaders from the two mentioned districts are going to do now? Are they going to withdraw their support from Khandu’s govt. and make someone else as CM of state or will they stick with Khandu without worrying about their life? An unanswerable question but we will come to know with passage of time.

The situation of State is turning worse from bad. Earlier the fear and problem of NSCN was confined to Tirap & Changlang district only but see the guts of these groups. They come-out openly and is creating disturbance in the mind of citizens of entire State.

I wish Govt. had taken preventive measure in initial phase but now the control of two infested district is not in hand of Govt. still it’s not too late to act. So, its my earnest request to Govt. to stop making tall claims about internal security arrangement in the state and make our state secure place to live in by taking up whatever possible measure.

We are peace loving people, we love to roam around freely, we love to sleep peacefully at night  and we don’t want our state to became like Manipur where lives of people has became hell because of so called self styled militant groups.

Citizens of Arunachal, this time let's lend our hand with Govt. and provide whatever support we can give  to Govt.

Let’s get up and act before our state became battle ground. Let’s save our state from turning into hell.

Yours,

Michi Tabyo

Itanagar

 

 

A letter to APCSC chairman

Dear Editor,

We the final year students of Mumbai University, Nagpur University, Pune University of Maharashtra and Anna University and Annamalai University of Tamil Nadu would like to request the APCSC chairman to conduct the examination/ interview for the posts of assistant engineers under various departments after completion of the final semester examination of  the technical branches of the universities so that we  would be able to appear for the  interview.

The  Commission had mentioned in the advertisement that Final year students of Engineering Degree Courses who are to appear for such Final year examination shall also be eligible to apply and we are confident that Commission would conduct the selection procedure with credible norms and criteria under recruitment rules.

It is our request to the Commission that  while announcing the date of the  interview/written test and  viva-voice,  it should  consider the fact that All India technical branch Universities examinations run up to the month of mid July every year. The period/date for examination/interview should be finalized considering the final semester examination of the technical Universities.

Finally, authorities should also look into it that sufficient time is given for the students studying in different colleges/universities of  the country to prepare and appear the interview.

Yours,

Tom Khoda, Nani Khoda, L Apang, Nabam Budh,  and many other engineering students.

 

 

Arunachal will decide for herself

Dear Editor,

It is indeed, disgusting, and unfortunate to see the letter allegedly written by NSCN K directing the elected representative of our State to withdraw the support to the Dorjee khandu govt.

In democracy only the people who vote and elect the representative can call them to support or withdraw the elected government not by external force. The people of Arunachal will decide by our self in this matter. We don’t need some other agency or state to interfere in our internal matter. We the common people of Arunachal are not foolish to judge that who are the killer and extortionist of the people of Tirap and changlang.

We respect the hope and aspiration of Naga but not at the cost of our people and our land.

Our ministers of Tirap and changlang should learn by now. They are the one who gave them shelter, money and power for their vested interest. Otherwise these people were never harmful to Arunachalees during early parts of 90s although they were present. It is only the leaders of Tirap and changlang who created this mess.

Yours,

Concerned Arunachalee,

(on email)

 

 

Start online submission

Dear Editor,

I would like to urge all the Departments of our State and Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission to start online application form submission. In this era of Science & Technology, application form submission on plain paper is outdated.

If application form submission is made online then it will make everything convenient for the aspiring candidates and the officials.       

Authorities of concerned departments should look into the matter and  start online application form submission in upcoming competitive exams.

Yours,

Koj Kapa

Khonsa, (on email)

 

 

One can only hope

Dear Editor,

The open threat issued by the self declared leaders of Nagaland to all the elected legislators from Changlang and Tirap district to withdraw their support from the Khandu led congress government before March 10 is a very serious matter.

As an ordinary citizen of Arunachal Pradesh, I do not know what actually is the ground reality or the major feud going on between the two factions of NSCN and the alleged support by our Govt. to the other faction(NSCN IM)but the way the threat was issued openly in a state daily without fear of any consequence shows the deadly nexus between our leaders and these groups.

If the legislators actually withdraw their support and fall to these demands the future of our state is really fragile and bleak, controlled by handlers from outside. One can only hope.

Yours,

Tami, Tamil Nadu,

(on email)

 

 

 

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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

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