P K Thungon gets 3 and half years jail in 1993-94 graft case
New Delhi, Feb 29: The first chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh P K Thungon was awarded a three-and-a half-year jail term in a graft case relating to allotment of government shops here during 1993-94 on Monday.
Apart from the jail term, special CBI judge Sanjeev Aggarwal also imposed a fine of Rs one lakh on Thungon.
The court has convicted Thungon for the offences under section 120B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC read with section 13d (iii)(if while holding office as a public servant, obtains for any person any valuable thing or pecuniary advantage without any public interest) and 13(2) (criminal misconduct by public servant) of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
The court, however, acquitted two other accused -- Lakhpa Tsering and Krishna -- in the case.
Thungon was the Minister of State for Urban Affairs and Employment at the time of the alleged offence when Congress government was led by Prime Minister P V Narsimha Rao.
Apart from them, then Urban Affairs and Employment Minister Sheila Kaul, and one Tulsi Balodi were also accused in the case. Proceedings against Kaul and Balodi were abated as they died during the pendency of trial.
The court, however, has also found Kaul guilty in the case for conspiring and committing the illegal act.
In July 2015, Thungon was awarded a four-and-a-half year jail term in a 1998 graft case relating to misappropriation of central funds.
A case was registered by CBI in 1996 against Kaul, Thungon, Tsering, Krishna and Balodi for allegedly hatching a conspiracy in allotting shops and stalls in 1994.
CBI had claimed Kaul and Thungon allegedly committed offence of criminal breach of trust to cause undue pecuniary advantage to their relations and friends, Tsering, Krishna and Balodi and dishonestly allowed these three to convert to their own the government shops entrusted to the minister.
The agency had also alleged in the charge sheet that Kaul caused huge pecuniary advantage to Tsering, Krishna and Balodi and corresponding loss to the state exchequer.
CBI said the case was registered after the Supreme Court in 1996 directed it to probe the allegations of corruption and bribery in the matter of out-of-turn allotment of government shops and lodge cases against the offenders. PTI
Bollywood team arrived at Pasighat
Bollywood stars Kangana Ranaut and Shahid Kapoor being accorded traditional welcome during their arrival at Pasighat on February 29 for shooting ‘Rangoon’ Film. Around 300 crew members from Mumbai landed in East Siang for film making. Directed by Vishal Bharadwaj, ‘Rangoon’ is a Casablanca style love story set in the times of World War 2. The movie releases on September 30, 2016.
Photo and news: Mingkeng Osik
DC calls for timely supply of LPG
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: Capital Complex Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Kumar Singh called for timely supply of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) cylinders at Naharlagun and directed the District Food and Civil Supplies officer (DFCSO) to work out modalities for home delivery of cylinders.
The Deputy Commissioner, who held a meeting with the proprietors of various gas agencies within Capital Complex and officers of the Department of Food and Civil Supplies in his office chamber on Monday following various public complaints regarding insufficient or shortage in supply of LPG cylinders, asked the DFCSO Amit Bengia to submit a detailed survey report identifying the area of each agency, backlogs etc. To meet the LPG demands, the consumers can also be distributed/transferred among the agencies as per their capacity, he suggested.
The meeting also reviewed the status report of each agency and discussed various issues pertaining to demand and supply of LPG cylinders, total number of consumers, commercial consumers, etc. The rates of LPG were also reviewed. The SDFCOs were asked to carry out a survey of commercial establishments in the Capital Complex.
It was also revealed during the meeting that there is around three months’ backlog of LPG supply in Naharlagun area.
The meeting suggested that the consumers who are not satisfied with the services may transfer their cards to Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd.
The Deputy Commissioner directed the Sales Manager of IOCL to increase the supply of LPG cylinders for Arunsiri Gas Agency at Naharlagun until the backlog is met, and the DFCSO will personally monitor the daily load supply. The IOCL Sales Manager was also asked for timely supply of LPG to all gas agencies.
Later, the proprietors of various agencies were asked to link the AADHAAR card of the consumers with their account. Those who have not yet enrolled themselves under BME, they are advised to get themselves enrolled in different Permanent Enrollment Centers.
A mobile bus for the purpose of Bio Metric Enrollment (BME) would be provided from March 1, the DC informed, and appealed everyone to come forward and enroll themselves under BME.
Adhere to governor order: Org
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: Claiming non-compliance of Governor’s Feb 10 order directing cancellation of irregular officiating/ functional and out of turn promotion in every department of GoAP, the Arunachal Youth Organization (AYO) has today demanded strict implementation of the said order in the state.
Addressing media persons during a press conference held here this afternoon, AYO General Secretary Kaling Tasing said that members of the organization had earlier called upon all the concern Secretaries, Commissioners and Chief Secretary seeking early implementation of the order but none of the departments had so far fully implemented the order.
We had also submitted a representation to the state Chief Secretary on Oct 12, 2015, demanding transparency in DDO powers conferred upon HoDs of district headquarters which should be monitored by a Joint Secretary rank officer besides, non-posting of department heads and officers under Grade A&B at a division for more than three years but the issue has not been addressed till date, he claimed.
While terming the grievances which the All Arunachal Affected, Functional Government Employees Forum (AAAOFGEF) had placed before the Governor as illegitimate and against the interest of the state’s people, Tasing further sought early upgrading of state government’s recruitment rules.
The AYO has further urged organizations like the Nyishi Elite Society (NES) and All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU) to desist from communalizing the issue and work towards development of society.
It has also expressed concern over the rampant encroachment of government quarters in Capital Complex and various district headquarters. ‘An enquiry from the department of housing has revealed that a total of 108 government quarters have been demolished and multi-storey buildings have been constructed at the same site’, it informed and submitted a memorandum to the Governor and CM demanding immediate eviction drive to stop such illegal activities in the state.
Discard burdensome tradition: Kiren
[ Karda Natam ]
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: Traditions should not be a burden and if necessary, such traditions should be modified to suit the present day situation, opined Union Minister Kiren Rijiju.
Rijiju who attended the 10th Galo Bane Keba (general convention) on Saturday at Dari village, West Siang, said that any organization and institution representing any community should modify their old custom and traditions carefully, when they become burden, for the betterment of the society. He, however, appealed to the people to preserve and promote their age-old cultural heritage and its values.
He discouraged division/disintegration among the society members in the name of clan/community. They, instead, should stand united and work together as a team for the greater good of all, Rijiju said.
Various socio-cultural and developmental issues, including promotion of peace and communal harmony, were discussed and debated during the three day conference, which concluded on Monday.
The convention also provided a platform to exchange culture among various tribes/communities and know each other better.
Representatives from various community based organizations from the state and Assam participated.
Intention of recommending PR was to install Pul:AEF
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: The Arunachal Elite Forum (AEF) on Monday stated the Governor’s intention in recommending President Rule in Arunachal was to install Chief Minister Kalikho Pul. Addressing the media persons at Press Club here the forum’s Chairman Taba Taku termed the imposition of PR in state unnecessary, uncalled for and politically motivated with intention to install Kalikho Pul as Chief Minister by the Governor.
While questioning the Governor’s intention Taku said Governor who was supposed to be neutral body has deprived former Chief Minister’s right, citing the way Raj Bhavan invited Pul to form government when the judgment is yet to be pronounced by the Supreme Court. Referring SR Bommai case Vs State of India, he said moment PR is lifted as per the constitutional provision former CM Nabam Tuki should have been given opportunity for floor test to prove his majority, however Governor overlooked it, he added. However, Taba maintained that he is supporting neither of the groups and is only stating constitutional facts.
Forum also questioned presence of paramilitary forces at Capital Complex even after PR rule lifted from the state. “Presence of huge number of paramilitary forces in Capital Complex would rather cost heavy loss to the state exchequer” said Forum Chairman. Highlighting objectives of Arunachal Elite Forum, he further added that they will enlighten the people of Arunachal on misdeed of the people who are at the helm of affairs.
130-member state team for 2nd NE Games
Pul advises youths to make career out of sports
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: National senior weightlifting champion Kojum Taba, shuttler Laa Talar, promising boxer Karling Natung are among the 130-member State team, which left here for Imphal, Manipur on Monday to participate in the 2nd National Level North East Games (under Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan) from March 2 to 7.
Arunachal hosted the first edition of the NE Games under RGKA in December, 2014 and finished runners up with 31 gold, 20 silver and 24 bronze medals behind champion Manipur.
Chief Minister Kalikho Pul, who flagged of the team at Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy playground, encouraged the players to perform upto their potentials and bring glory to the state.
Pul said players should not lose heart if they lose one or two games and they should learn to accept defeat gracefully.
Highlighting the benefits of practicing Yoga for sportspersons, the Chief Minister advised them to learn and practice Yoga regularly for remaining healthy and physically fit. He also indicated that Yoga may be introduced to schools in the State soon.
Pul asked the players of the state to draw inspiration from successful sports figures like, cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, shuttler Saina Nehwal etc. and take up sports sincerely and make career out of it.
“Sports can earn one not only decent living but also bring name and fame, if pursued sincerely and seriously,” he said.
Stating that 236 police posts meant for Tirap and Changlang district are still lying vacant for want of eligible candidates, Pul asked the sportspersons of those district to perform and grab the jobs.
Admitting shortage of sports infrastructure, Pul said sports sector will be given priority in the next budget and sufficient fund will be allocated for infrastructure development through out the state.
He directed the Secretary (Sports), Dani Salu to prepare an estimate for up gradation of sports infrastructure, training equipments and faculties and man power requirements and submit it to the Government.
Later, the chief minister allocated Rs. 54.43 lakh for the Imphal bound state team.
Arunachal will participate in Athletics, Badminton, Boxing, Football, Judo, Table Tennis and Weightlifting.
Deputy Director (Sports) Mala Linggi is the Chef De Mission.
DA dismantles 16 illegal structures in Khonsa
KHONSA, Feb 29: A total of 16 illegal structures were dismantled in an eviction drive carried out by the District Administration at Khonsa on Monday.
The dismantled included Motor Garages, Pan Gumtis and bamboo structures at Khonsa-Longding roads starting from PHED office Point to Kendra Vidhalaya, Khonsa. The next eviction drive shall be carried out in Bank Colony, Khonsa-Naharkatia road to ensure widening of township roads at par guidelines.
ADC Ngamjang Wangsu, Town Magistrate CO, Asan Kri, PWD Engineer, OC accompanied by police personnel and 36 Bn CRPF team carried out the eviction. The District Administration, Khonsa has appealed the encroachers of government land in Khonsa township to dismantle the structures to avoid forcefull eviction by govt. Some permanent structures which falls under govt land would be evicted in the next round, added an official release. DIPRO
Orgs provide financial assistance to fire victims, demands repair of bridges
[ Karda Natam ]
DAPORIJO, Feb 29: The Tagin Cultural Society (TC) headed by its Vice President Dr Tara Nayam along with Tagin Youth Organization on Monday provided financial assistance to fire victims of Lidu colony fire mishap. Dr. Nayam while distributing the relief amount to the victims appealed them to take precaution measure to avoid any untoward fire incident in near future.
Lashing out at district administration and Trans Arunachal Highway authority for not repairing the weak bridges, ATYO claiming that fire tender could not reach on time due to weak bridges over river Sigin.
“If fire tender had reached on time, the magnitude of fire incident would have been not so high,” the organisation said.
It appealed to the district authority to immediately repair the bridges and grant compensation to fire victim as early as possible.
ATYO also threatened to launch democratic movement against the authority if its demands were not fulfilled at the earliest.
Slow progress of TAH resented
Further in a separate representation to Upper Subansiri Deputy Commissioner, ATYO expressed its dismay over the slow progress of Trans Arunachal Highway from Bopi to Tai.
The ministry of road transport and highway had already approved and sanctioned the compensation to the state govt. for the land owners but compensation in the Upper Subansiri district is yet to be distributed causing delay in road construction work, the organization said.
Meanwhile, ATYO also said that, some so-called affected people’s organizations in the district are creating hurdle in the TAH project work by making unwanted protest regarding the already approved land rate. The organisation has appealed to every citizen to extend their cooperation with the district administration so that project is started at the earliest for the welfare of the district.
Meeting bans Air Guns
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: An awareness campaign on Preservation, Promotion and Protection of Biodiversity, Sensitisation of Adi Tribal Community to ban Ritual Hunting sponsored by Wildlife Trust of India was organised by Adi Baane Kebang, East Siang District at Kiyit Village community hall under Mebo sub-division, East Siang on Sunday. This was the ninth awareness campaign by the ABK unit conducted across the district. Addressing the meeting, ABK, East Siang unit, General Secretary, Tajing Taki spoke on the aims and objectives of the meeting.
Resource person, Range Forest Officer, Mebo, Obang Tayeng highlighted on the preservation of biodiversity and implications of destruction of wildlife.
Speaking in the meeting, Gaon Burah of Kiyit, Ruklik Pertin called upon all to uphold the resolutions adopted in true spirit.
The meeting adopted complete ban on selling, using, possession and transportation of Air Guns and its pellets in Adi belt with imposition of heavy fines, to protect Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary by all the community members, adding limitations against destruction of Forest based produces like cane, bamboo and restriction of yearly Tree permit Quota system in Saw Mills by District Administration and Forest department.
The meeting also appealed the district administration for supporting the movement for eradication of Opium, Ganja and IMFL consumption.
All district and block executive members of ABK and ABK WW East Siang, Gaon Burahs, Panchayat Members and villagers attended the meeting.
Training on Low costs Bamboo Toilets
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: A six- day training Workshop on Construction of Bamboo Toilets started on Monday at Poma Bamboo Processing Centre under the aegis of South Asia Bamboo (SABF) Foundation in collaboration with Arunachal Pradesh Bamboo Resources Development Agency (APBRDA).
Supported by Building Materials and Technology Promotion Council under Ministry of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation, around 25 trainees from in and around Poma are participating in the training workshop.
In his keynote speech, SABF executive director Kamesh Salam said toilet will be of low cost and eco friendly where all the materials including septic tank, water container and broom will be made of bamboo.
He added that the low cost bamboo toilets has been designed while seeing the huge scope of bamboos in India and has linked it with the Prime Minister’s Swachh Bharat Mission.
“As a part of PM’s Swachh Bharat Mission, we have been linking sanitation and cleanliness with bamboo which has huge potential in north-east including Arunachal Pradesh”, he said.
Stating that there has been huge potential for eco-tourism in Poma, Salam suggested for improvement of technology in the area with the support of National Institute of Technology (NIT).
“There is a huge scope for developing ecotourism in Poma. You have to develop more amenities like cultural heritage centre, home-stay, restaurant etc while using bamboo technology with the help of NIT,” told the executive director.
APBRDA scientist and nodal officer RK Taj informed that the low cost bamboo based toilet project is all over India and this type of toilets are very much important for the rural areas where rods and bricks are not available.
As part of demonstration, Taj told two toilet units will be constructed at the bamboo processing centre and picnic spot with the help of bamboo experts from Assam while using technology so that it last long.
He added the project has been successful and implemented in the state like Nagaland, Mizoram, Kerela and in many other states.
Poma Bamboo Processing Centre chairperson cum ASM Techi Ana exhorted the trainees to take benefits from the training workshop so that they can sustain themselves in long run.
She also informed that the bamboo processing centre, which was initiated by then Governor General (Rtd) JJ Singh in 2009, has been imparting training on making bamboo products to the local youths from all over the state for their self sustenance.
The chairperson further requested for Raj Bhawan’s intervention for the improvement of the bamboo processing centre. Meanwhile, senior member of the Poma village Techi Rotu extended gratitude to SABF and APBRDA for the training programme and requested for more such programme so that the people can be trained in skill development. Rotu advised the trainees to work dedicatedly after achieving knowledge from the training programme.
Arunachal m-Seva wins Special Mention award
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: Arunachal m-Seva: Citizen Centric Services through Mobile Governance, a project designed and developed by the Department of Information Technology & Communication, Government of Arunachal Pradesh has won the ‘Special Mention’ award at the recently held 6th e-North East Award Summit 2016 at Shillong.
The award summit was organised by the Digital India Foundation under "Mobiles for Social Services Delivery'' category for providing 21 Government-to-Citizen services across 12 categories covering eight user departments; Health, Police, Tourism, Disaster Management, Agriculture, Land Management, Social Welfare and Employment.
Earlier, the project was awarded the ‘Finalist’ certificate in 'Technology for Development’ category in the North East Social Impact Award held at Guwahati in 2015.
The Arunachal m-Seva or Mobile Governance for Arunachal is a G2C centric service through mobile for citizens. The application is available in all the common mobile platforms viz. Android, iOS, Windows and Nokia Asha and can be downloaded from any application store. The application is capable of providing services ranging from safety and health alerts to tourism service benefits.
The web portal for mobile Governance is http://mgov.arunachal.gov.in
At the recently concluded statehood day celebration the project was displayed and got overwhelming response from the citizens and as of now around 1500 users are using the application.
DC prohibits earth cutting within Capital Complex
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: Capital Complex DC Sandeep Kumar Singh, has prohibited all kinds of earth cutting whether in private or government allotted land within the Itanagar Capital Complex with immediate effect till 30/10/2016.
Violators shall be imposed penalty of Rs.6,000/per Sq.mtr of area infringing on the setback of residential area and Rs.15000/Sq.mtr of area infringing on the setback for commercial area as per minutes of Building Sanctioning Committee dated 17th July, 2014and shall be booked under section 188 IPC, the DC in his order said.
In case of violations of this order leads/causes defacement/ damage of any public property, violators shall be booked under various provisions of the Prevention of Damages to Public Property Act, 1984, the order further added.
Immunization cover
YINGKIONG, Feb 29: A total of 3933 children of 0-5 years have received OPV doses out of the total targeted 4049 children during the second phase of IPPI in Upper Siang district on February 21.
91 booths were set up for the purpose and the immunization coverage was 97.13%. DIPRO
Workshop for ITI faculties
ROING, Feb 29: The four-day workshop for faculty - Moving towards ITI as a learning organisation, “Faculty as change agents” begun on Monday at ITI Roing. The workshop is being conducted by Bridging The Gap Together, Chandigarh.
Addressing the inaugural function, Lower Dibang Valley DC, Ravi Dhawan called on all participants to avail the benefit of the workshop. He stressed upon the faculty members to be sincere and dedicated to their jobs and train the trainees as per the requirements of the industry.
All together 30 faculty members including principals of the state are participating in the workshop.
Exam centre shifted
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: The Examination Centre at R K Sarada Mission Girls’ School, Khonsa for the CBSE Class X/XII students has been shifted to Govt Higher Secondary School, Khonsa due to administrative reason. The Examination is scheduled to start from March 1.
Villagers benefitted from med camp
BOMDILA, Feb 29: A large number of people from Salari, Rahung, Jerigaon and Saddle villages under Nafra circle benefitted from a medical camp organized by the army under the aegis of Ball of Fire division in remote Salari village here on Feb 28.
A team of three medical officers of Army, a civil doctor along with 18 nursing assistants attended to the patients and distributed free medicines. Commander 351 Infantry Brigade Brigadier, Shailender Singh who was also present during the camp further assured to organize more such events and camps at strategic places in the district to counter the diseases that might affect the villagers during the monsoon season. (DIPRO)
Nyokum celebrated
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: Nyokum Yullow was celebrated at Mengio (Sakiang) with pomp and gaiety from February 21 to 26 last.
Speaking during the celebration, SE PWD Rotu Techi emphasized on the importance of the festival and suggested younger generation to maintain the spirit of custom and tradition in future as well.
“Nothing is bigger than identity,” he said and requested other community to respect other’s culture and tradition.
Councilor, Itanagar municipal council, Tarh Kunia also attended the programme.
Healing crusade
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: Director Divine Word Touch Ministries (DWTM) Jumi Dora and her team attended a two days Woman Conference cum healing crusade at Seppa, East Kameng which concluded on Sunday.
Training for newly recruited ministerial staff
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: A week-long training programme for the newly recruited ministerial staff of the State Secretariat and Heads of Offices within Capital Complex, including from District Administration, Aalo commenced at Administrative Training Institute, Naharlagun on Monday.
This training is the first of its kind and designed mainly for newly recruited employees in order to sensitize them on Govt. functioning, said ATI Director Pate Marik.
The content of the course include establishment matters, office rules and procedure and financial rules, the ATI Director informed. He hoped the training will help them know their duties and responsibilities and to follow certain codes of conduct as well.
Deputy Director Priscilla Tayeng and Course Coordinator Nani Khambo, Assistant Director also spoke on the occasion.
42 staffs are attending the programme.
KVK Tirap holds SAC meeting
ITANAGAR, Feb 29: The 8th Scientific Advisory Committee meeting of KVK, Tirap was held on Monday.
Chairing the meeting, DAO-cum-Project Director, ATMA, Khonsa, H. Chimyang has reiterated the role of KVK in technology testing, technology transfer and developing scientific temperament among the farmers. He also requested the farmers for taking technical guidance and put forward their suggestion to KVK for need based intervention.
Earlier, Programme Coordinator, Dr. Indu briefed on the purpose of the SAC meeting.
The progress report for April 2015 to Feb 2016 and proposed action plan for April 2016 to March 2017 of KVK, Tirap was presented by the Programme Coordinator with the concerned SMSs. Detail discussion was held on proposed OFT, FLD, training programmes and other extension activities. The members including farmer representatives actively participated and put forward their suggestions for inclusion in the action plan. Accordingly the progress report for April 2015 to Feb 2016 and proposed action plan for April 2016 to March 2017 was approved in the meeting.
Fishing, hunting, sale of wild meat prohibited
TORU, Feb 29: In a public meeting convened under the chairmanship of Toru Circle Officer Khoda Bath on Feb 25 last, which was attended by HGBs, GBs, PRI members, it was decided to prohibit fishing, hunting (barring the traditional method), sale of wild meat in the Circle from Mar 1. It was also decided to impose heavy penalty against those found violating the decision.
Expressing deep concern over ever decreasing forest resources, the house also decided to completely prohibit the timber operation for commercial purpose in the area.
Later, a circle level vigilance committee under the chairmanship of Circle Officer with RFO as member Secretary and a Joint Secretary from each Panchayat, was formed to check the said illegal activities. (DIPRO)
Editorial
Inspiring stories
The news story about how a red panda was rescued and later handed over to Itanagar
Biological Park authorities by a villager of Kebi village under Lower Subansiri district
is truly inspiring. According to the report Panda was badly injured by labourers
working in the field and if villager had not intervened on time, it could have been
easily killed. In recent year many citizens have carried out such rescue operation
and handed over the rescued animal to wild life authorities. These acts inspire the
people to conserve wild life and also help to create awareness.
Nature has abundantly blessed Arunachal with rich flora and fauna. Our state is
home to some of the rarest wild animals. However, their population has been dwindling
due to varying factors. Hunting has been always part of the tribal tradition and
is practiced by most of the tribal groups of Arunachal. But over the year traditional
method of hunting is being gradually replaced by the modern weapons. The excessive
use of modern weapon for hunting is one of the main reasons for fast eroding wild
life population. The department of environment and forest need to put more effort
to create awareness among people of the state. They should use inspiring story of
people saving the lives of wild animal to generate awareness. Also the awareness
campaign should be started from the village level.
________________________________
Readers’ Forum
Redress the issues
Dear Editor,
Through the columns of your esteemed daily, I would like to draw the kind attention
of the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Chief Minister, Chairman and Secretary APPSC,
Political parties and the Civil society at large towards some genuine grievances
of the Arunachal Pradesh Civil Service(APCS) aspirants and request for its early
redressal by the concerned.
The Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Combined Competitive Examination (APPSCCE),
2013 which was marred by much controversy, finally started its Mains examination
after long delay from July 16-25 taking almost 2 and half years. Then again, it took
another six months to declare the Mains result on 4th of February, 2016. Thus, in
total, it took more than 3 years to conduct this examination. I wish the successful
candidates luck for their viva voice but what about those who could not get selected
this time? And, what about those aspirants who were unable to clear the prelims in
2013 and were eagerly waiting for the next notification? We have lost three precious
years of our life which no gold can buy us back.
I was in my final year post graduation course but I had to leave my course midway
just to appear for this examination but due to the GS-Paper 2 leak episode, I had
to stay back leaving my whole course completely. This is just my case and I am sure
there are many more such cases yet untold. We have lost our precious years of our
life and our degree altogether in this controversial APPSCCE, 2013 recruitment process.
Having lost 3 precious years of our career and our postgraduate degrees, we are ruined
and future appears bleak. We feel very helpless and many are on the verge of depression.
Since we have lost 3 precious years in this recruitment process, it is the duty and
responsibility of the APPSC to clearly give us 3-4 years age relaxation as a special
case. If not, I suggest the APPSC to consider age of candidates for its next recruitment
to be taken as on 1.1.2014 because during 2013 notification, age was calculated as
on 1.1.2013. This is extremely important because many of the APPSCCE, 2013 candidates
have already reached their upper age limit due to the delay of more than 3 years.
The ratio of 1:3 has not been maintained for selecting the candidates for viva-voice.
According to 1:3 norm, for 51 posts, it should have been 153 candidates but the APPSC
selected only 132 candidates depriving as many as 21 candidates. This is nothing
but gross violation of recruitment rules.
The clarification given by the APPSC of minimum criteria of 33% and 45% is unsatisfactory
and not well founded. For, there certainly could be a case in near future where the
candidates fulfilling the criteria of the Commission is less than the number of vacancies.
What would be the Commission's stand if such a situation crop up? Wouldn’t it be
more accurate if the average is taken upon the performance of the candidates in a
particular paper and particular exam and right number of candidates accommodated
maintaining proper ratio? If most of the students could not secure the much hyped
criteria of the Commission just because of a single paper(GS-Paper 2), then there
certainly is something seriously wrong in which that particular paper( GS-Paper 2)
is set and not necessarily because of the inefficiency of majority of the candidates.
The Statistics portion of General Studies-Paper 2 carrying total of 40 marks has
been given too much weightage when actually it is of no use in field of our local
administration. It gives undue advantage to candidates with science background because
of their familiarity with the subject. It is a fact that it is difficult to secure
even 33% in GS-Paper 2. But due to the presence of Statistics portion in General
Studies Paper-2, it is comparatively easier for candidates with science background
to clear the GS-paper 2 than their non-science counterparts. Since the APPSCCE is
the highest Civil service exam in the state, there should be a level playing field
for all - both science and non-science aspirants. The presence of Statistics portion
clearly does not make it so. Many states like Assam for example, therefore, do not
include Statistics in Mains examination. Thus, it would be a level playing field
for all if Statistics portion is completely taken out from General Studies Paper
2. If not, it should be very common general Statistics questions which even non-science
students can handle with equal ease. Otherwise, the weightage of marks in statistics
portion should be reduced to half i.e. 20 marks in total.
4. The recruitment process should be made within a fixed time-period. For eg for
prelims, 2 months is sufficient, for Mains 3-4 months and result should not take
more than 3-4 months for its declaration. Otherwise, the career of many students
might be at stake like us. Also, there is greater scope of manipulative practices
in a delayed recruitment process.
I hope the concerned may kindly take note of these grievances of the aspirants and
work earnestly to redress them at the earliest.
Yours,
An aspirant
The proud people
Dear Editor,
Bangladesh has her distinguished history of independence following a bloody civil
war in which millions of people were brutally murdered,
tortured, raped, displaced and their human rights seriously violated.
The sad but inspiring story of emergence of the sovereign nation of Bangladesh from
the clutch of West Pakistan; and her march towards a secular and progressive democracy
breaking the burdens and shackles of erstwhile East Pakistan is a global example
of how people’s resistance can change the geography and political history of a nation.
Pakistan
is now being globally recognized as a failed nation. In spite of numerous socio-economic
and socio-political challenges Bangladesh has made her visible on the global map
with distinction and pride. For the
past few years and fairly recently, Pakistan government has been reported to be involved
in espionage as well as supporting insurgent
groups within Bangladesh for destabilizing the economy and the nation.
Providing logistic supports to criminals, insurgent group with radical ideologies,
spreading fake and counterfeit currency and more inappropriately intervening and
officially commenting on the state
affair of a sovereign nation is highly condemnable. The Government of Bangladesh
has taken the right steps in diplomatically challenging Pakistan to stop nuisance
on the foreign soil. No such covert attempts
and activities will be tolerated by the proud people of Bangladesh.
Yours,
Saikat Kumar Basu
Lethbridge AB Canada
Indigenous fests and stalls
Dear Editor,
It's very sad to see that indigenous festivals in Arunachal are meant for business
only. I appeal Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Faith and Culture Society to look into
the matter as its motto is to promote indigenous culture, tradition & custom.
Since the last few years, Indigenous Festivals have become purely business venture
depriving the young generation to learn our culture, tradition and custom. In the
name of festival, organizing committees allow stalls and charges them certain amount
and in return stall owners charge high rate from public.
Stalls and dice should be banned from indigenous festival celebration.
Yours,
Techi Mupu,
Rono, Doimukh
