March 24
2016
Arunachal Legislative Assembly passes budget -2016-17
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: The Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Wednesday passed the 2016-17 Budget by voice votes, even as the opposition Congress continued to boycott the three-day session after staging walkout from the assembly on March 21 last, terming the session as ‘illegal’.
Chief Minister Kalikho Pul, who also holds the finance portfolio, yesterday presented the 367.58 crore deficit budget, the first of the Peoples’ Party of Arunachal (PPA) government which came to power after months of political instability.
Responding to various suggestions of the members in the over ten hours budget discussion, Pul sought whole-hearted cooperation from the two deputy chief ministers, ministers and MLAs including civil societies and NGOs to turn the budget into reality.
He called for political will and support of one and all in translating the budget proposals into reality while saying that preparation of budget was an arduous task and he wrote to all stakeholders for their views and suggestions before preparing the financial document and ironically none responded.
“To implement the budget in toto, political will is a must and for that we all must put concerted efforts,” Pul said adding every member was given enough time to participate in budget discussion.
The chief minister further called students’ unions, NGOs and civil societies for strict monitoring of implementation parts of the budget proposals and to seek audit from the government.
Pul broke down in tears between his address saying that nobody is unfortunate like him despite his sincere commitment to public service, which prompted Speaker Wangki Lowang to interrupt who said that “dard such ka saathi hota hai... Please go ahead (Pain is a companion of happiness).
“If unwanted people would not allow us to work, our time will pass away which, makes me sentimental sometime,” Pul said.
Taking a dig at the previous government, the chief minister said that he put efforts to rescue the derailed and bankrupt government.
While assuring to lead the state to the right direction, he said, “People elected us and we are duty bound for them.”
Referring to the claim of the previous government that all the development funds were parked in the civil deposit, Pul clarified that there was no such provision but the last government had befooled the people.
“After we took over the reign, we have maintained a positive cash balance of Rs 1660 crore with the RBI,” he added.
Earlier taking part in the budget discussion, deputy chief minister Kameng Dolo said that the budget reflected the commitment of the government for the people. He also called to free the state from psychotropic practice.
While another deputy chief minister Chowna Mein while insisting on reopening of border trade at Pangsau Pass along Myanmar border, informed that border area development has been going on which would improve boost economic activities soon.
Taking part in budget discussion, PHE & WS Minister Lombo Tayeng assured to provide sufficient water supply to every household of the state, while Tesam Pongte of BJP said that the budget showcased the government’s policy which would immensely benefit the masses.
Laisam Simai (BJP) called for checking revenue pilferages while Jomde Kena (PPA) suggested for framing specific guidelines for MLA local area development fund to meet local requirements and made effort to tie up with medicine manufacturers to ensure quality supply of medicines at reasonable rates.
Another PPA member Phosum Khimhum suggested to check illegal tapping of power.
PPA MLA Jarkar Gamlin called for streamlining transfer and posting of medical staff including doctors, while Zingnu Namchoom (PPA) while referring to drug addiction menace lauded the proposal for setting up of de-addiction centres but also regretted that one such centre set up at Namsai district two years ago turned defunct for want of equipments and manpower.
Independent member Paknga Bage while lauding the budget said that it reflected the commitment of the government to perform better.
BJP member Kaling Moyong participating in the discussion lamented that the Indira Gandhi Golden Jubilee Higher Secondary School established way back in 1940, though produced two chief ministers besides several ministers and technocrats do not have proper boundary demarcation.
Another BJP MLA Olom Panyang termed the budget as ‘people oriented’ and suggested for establishment of more ITIs in the state besides setting up of a drug de-addiction centre at Yingkiong in Upper Siang district.
While PPA member Honchun Ngandam terming the budget without any loopholes, suggested for periodic meetings of teachers, students and parents to streamline education in government schools and to imbibe discipline among students.
Senior BJP member Tamiyo Taga termed the budget as ‘balanced’ while expressing dwindling quality of education in the state citing 12 primary schools in his constituency Rumgong which remained defunct since last 10 years. He also suggested for handing over government schools to NGOs on pilot basis. He further suggested micro planning for providing sources of livelihood.
BJP member Dr Mohesh Chai said that the proposed police reforms in the budget would help tackle crimes adding, through planned and quality health services the health parameters in the state would improve.
While PPA MLA Tapuk Taku suggested for improving inter-village connectivity, Likha Saaya (PPA) suggested for introducing buy-back policy to encourage farmers besides going for market linkage and establishment of food processing industries and cold storages for their benefits.
Stating that Pul has showed that he could start from scratch, PPA member P D Sona said after six months of political tsunami, the budget proposal is the testimony to prove that the present government want to do something seriously.
Sona also suggested for expansion of IT network in the state through V-Sat instead of depending on BSNL and other service providers.
The MLAs of ruling PPA along with BJP which is extending support to Kalikho Pul led government has described budget 2016-17 as a historic one and also heaped praise on Pul. While opposition Congress has charged the government of distributing fund to individuals in revised estimate, the PPA and BJP MLAs claimed this budget is much better than previous budget of Congress regime.
PPA MLA Markio Tado termed budget as commendable and stated that it has lot of clarity. “This budget is much better than the previous one. The programmes and policies announced has potential to change dynamics of Arunachal,” said Tado. BJP MLA Japu Deru while praising the budget also asked government to ensure that whatever is announced is practically implemented at grass root. “Budget announced in the floor of assembly is like law. It should not become eye wash and should be properly implemented,” said Deru. However he did raised concern over how files take months to clear due to which project and schemes announced are not implemented on time. Ziro MLA Tage Taki while heaping praise on Kalikho Pul said this is one of the best budgets. On his part Taki suggested for setting up of trauma care centre in all the district hospitals. He also suggested that schools constructed prior to 1980 be dismantled and new infrastructure be constructed.
Nari Koyu MLA Kento Rina while participating in the discussion called for raising land tax from the land occupied by defence forces.
Later, the house adopted the budget through voice votes before the speaker adjourned it sine die. ATNS with inputs from PTI
Heard in the Assembly
1. CM bohut accha vahan chalak hain: BJP MLA Tage Taki while appreciating Pul on budget preparation.
2. Arunachal is God’s own creation: MLA Laisam Simai
3. Budget is passed in three days but file takes months to get cleared: Japu Deru
Governor suggests for bifurcation of the H&TE directorate
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: Governor of Arunachal Pradesh J P Rajkhowa on Wednesday suggested for bifurcation of the Higher and Technical Education directorate. He said this while gracing inaugural session of the XVI Conference of Higher & Technical Education, Govt of Arunachal Pradesh in Itanagar. In his inaugural address Governor emphasized that education in the state must be knowledge based, value based, society based and nation building based. He called upon the officials of education department and educationists to lay strong foundation for educated society, starting from primary education.
Sharing his observations of his recent visit to Jawaharlal Nehru College, Pasighat, Dera Natung Govt. College, Itanagar and Women’s College, Lekhi, the Governor said that State Government must give importance to higher education by providing better fund allocation. He said that Govt. College meets the requirement of those students, particularly from poorer background, who cannot afford in costly private institutions; therefore special care must be taken for these colleges for healthy and congenial human resource development. He underscored that there must be some reservation or scholarship schemes for poor students in private institutions also. The Governor suggested that there must be one more NERIST like institution for Eastern Part of Arunachal Pradesh and Polytechnic in each district and ITI in every sub division.
This, he opined will address the challenge of educated unemployed youth. He added that in addition to it the children should be encouraged towards Science Stream and every institute must have computers and internet connections.
In his address, Education Minister Wanglin Lowangdong said that there must be no compromise with quality in education, while informing that education sector is one of the top priorities of the State Government and it has enhanced the fund allocation to the department. He added that the State Government is taking initiative towards woman empowerment through women education. To check the growth of private institutions, it is going to bring out a bill, which will regulate and register these institutions.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor, Rajiv Gandhi University Prof. Tamo Mibang said that higher education is linked to national development and stressed on quality education. Calling for introspection to improve the academic curriculum with innovative ideas, the Vice Chancellor said that students must be trained to face the future challenges.
Education Commissioner Marnya Ete exhorted principals and lecturers not to solely depend on the State Government but strive to get funds from other funding agencies such as UNESCO, UNICEF, World Bank, DoNER, Ministries of DST, Sports and Youth Affairs, Tribal Affairs, Niti Aayog, MPMLA and MLALAD. The Commissioner also suggested for starting fisheries, horticulture, floriculture and garden of medicinal plants in the college campus.
In his address, Dr. T.Padu, Director, Higher & Technical Education informed that there are 53 institutions of higher and technical education in the State, which includes one Central University, one NIT, one Deemed University (NERIST), one National Open University, two other Central Institutions, fifteen Govt. Degree Colleges, three Govt Model Degree Colleges, six Govt Polytechnics, seven private Degree Colleges, three private Professional Institutions, seven B.Ed Colleges, one private Polytechnic and seven private Universities. He added that as per as Census the literacy rate of Arunachal Pradesh improved from 7.23% in 1961 to 66.95% in 2011, which is still below national average of 74.04%. The H&TE Director further informed that the overall teacher-student ratio in higher education institutions of the State is 1:35, whereas as per as Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) norms, it must be 1:20.
Earlier the Governor gave away ‘Outstanding College Teachers’ award 2016 to Dr. Prasant Kumer Nayak, Associate Professor, History, Indira Gandhi Govt. College, Tezu, Dr. Chandramani Nayak, Associate Professor, History, Jawaharlal Nehru College, Pasighat and Dr. Anil Choudhury, Principal in-charge, Govt. Polytechnic College, Dirang. The Governor gave away the Governor’s Award to University Toppers (Under graduate level) for the year 2015 to Ruby Tadi, B.Sc (Hons), Dera Natug Govt. College, Itanagar, Tania Tagia, BA (Hons), Dera Natung Govt. College, Itanagar and Md. Akhtarul Islam, B.Com (Hons), Indira Gandhi Govt. College, Tezu on the occasion. APSCTE Gold Medal to toppers of Polytechnics were gave away to Manish Kumar Choudhury, RGGP, Itanagar, Amit Tiwari, TPC, Basar and Habung Ampi, RGGP, Itanagar by Education Minister, while Vice Chancellor, RGU gave away the NSS Awards 2016. Khiapgi Agi and Nabam Anyia of Dera Natung Govt. College, Itanagar received the Best NSS volunteer awarded in male and female category respectively. L. Dhana Chandra Singh, VKV, Roing received the Best Programme Officer NSS Award 2015-16 and SFS College, Aalo, West Siang District received the Best Unit NSS Award 2015-16.
The Governor released a book ‘Elementary Education in Arunachal Pradesh’ authored by Dr. T. Taloh, Principal in-charge, Indira Gandhi Govt. College, Tezu, while education Minister released the ‘Basic Information on Higher Education,’ NSS Newsletter was released by Commissioner Education on the occasion. The Governor also felicitated Dr. Joram Begi, former Director Higher & Technical Education as one of the pioneers of Higher Education in the State on the occasion.
Thunderstorm causes extensive damage to power transmission lines in Tirap
KHONSA, Mar 23: Heavy thunderstorm coupled with incessant rains lashed Deomali on the night of March 21 and 22 causing total disruption in power supply to whole of Tirap district.
Power transmission lines broke down at several locations, including in interior places like Changnyiak and Lazu, bordering Myanmar. Lapnan and Luthong transmission lines were also extensively damaged. However, the power supply was restored with great difficulties using all the available resources with the Power Department.
Deomali and its adjoining areas have been lashed by another heavy wind with rain showers on the night of March 22 compounding miseries to the people of the area and the Power Department as well.
The strong winds and intermittent rains caused extensive damages to the power supply line between Deomali and Khonsa. To make matters worse, a huge tree fell down on the power lines that broke them into pieces.
On hearing about the damages caused by heavy winds, the AE along with his support staff rushed to the spot to repair the lines to restore power supply. But inclement weather hampered the restoration work. When contacted, EE, Power Tamit Jerang told that the restoration work might take some time as the damages caused had been of great magnitude. He appealed to the people to bear with the department.
It may be mentioned here that the power line to Tirap district comes from Kothalguri in Assam to the Power Grid at Deomali from where power is distributed to the whole district. The old and outdated power lines from Deomali to Khonsa and other places of the district pass through thick forests belonging to both Assam and Arunachal due to which there is a frequent disruption in power supply as trees and branches of trees keep falling on the power lines.
In the meantime, Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha has asked the Power department to spare no effort to restore power supply. DIPRO
APWWS, APSCW hails budget as women & child friendly
Budget people centric: PPA
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: The Arunachal Pradesh Women Welfare Society (APWWS) and Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) hailed the budget of the State for the year 2016-17 as women and child friendly.
The budget has fulfilled the long-pending demands of APWWS by including women member in the State Development Council, establishment of Juvenile Home, Old age Home, de-addiction centers, recruitment of more women police and enhancement of grant-in-aid to APSCW which would boost the efforts being made for overall development of women and children in the society, said APWWS President Gumri Ringu.
“This budget is positive steps toward the overall development of women and children,” Ringu said. The APWWS President also urged the present Govt. for early constitution of separate Child Rights Commission and timely implementation of various schemes and projects pertaining to women and children in letter and spirit.
APSCW Chairperson Mitali Tingkhatra also hailed Chief Minister Pul and his government for inclusion of some of the long pending demands of APSCW in the Budget and recent recommendation letter submitted for establishment of Juvenile Justice Home, Working women hostel, Drug de-addiction centers, creation of women police personnel including women police station in all district headquarters.
“The APSCW is looking forward for inclusion of all the major and crucial pending demands of APSCW’s combined Annual Administrative Report -2012-13 &2013-14 near future, which was already submitted,” said the Chairperson.
Meanwhile, Chairman, Central Working Committee (CWC) of People’s Party of Arunachal (PPA) Kamen Ringu described the Budget presented by Chief Minister Kaliko Pul as promising, highly innovative and people centric.
“While the people of the state were at a crossroads because of the poor and massive fiscal mismanagement by the previous Government, the timely presentation of this year's Budget has once again rejuvenated in the common people's minds.
The Budget proposal hints at fiscal consolidation as the core ideal to do away with the huge financial irregularities and fiscal mismanagements of the previous Government pushing the fragile state economy into sad and repeated fiscal overdrafts,” Ringu said in a party meeting.
He said that the Budget is laudable for its categorical promises of regular and timely payment of salaries, wages and stipend to all permanent, temporary, contingent, casual, and contractual employees and the eligible students on monthly basis, and this includes salaries of SSA teachers, the section of the Teaching Community, who were found to be at the receiving end and suffering the most all these years..
The budget proposal has also commendable plans for the Police, whose services are most necessary to bring under control the law and order, concluded Kamen.
”This year's Budget Document is not simply a wish list of desirable but unattainable ends. Rather it is a statement of what we believe is possible for our State to achieve, provided we are able to fully mobilize all the available resources- human, organizational, technological and financial- generate the requisite will and make the required effort,” said Party Secretary General cum Spokesperson Kaling Jerang.
Meanwhile, former Doimukh MLA Ngurang Pinch has lauded the budget 2016-17, especially for giving thrust in education, health, infrastructure and agriculture sectors. Pinch also expressed happiness over the unopposed election of Tumke Bagra to the post of Deputy Speaker. “I am very much hopeful that your (Bagra’s) election to the office of the deputy speaker will certainly contribute towards the uplift of democratic values enshrined in the Constitution of India, the former MLA said. He further said that Kalikho Pul led government has created history by maintaining the true spirit of democracy by giving responsibility of Deputy Speaker to the member of other than ruling party.
Nixon Bui makes Northeast India proud!
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: Arunachal Pradesh born fashion designer Nixon Bui recently presented his first full collection ‘Urban Tribal’ at a runway show in Copenhagen, Denmark.
The fashion event took place at Copenhagen Business School at a weeklong event with focus on sustainable efforts in business and fashion.
Nixonbui, being the only menswear brand selected to present at the show, was chosen due its originality and focus on sustainable fashion.
NIXONBUI is a Copenhagen based ready-to-wear menswear brand, founded in 2014 by designer and entrepreneur Nixon Bui. Its design aesthetic is a celebration of cultural fusion; it merges modern classic wear in urban environments with tribal details. This design concept can be seen in the materials used, the styles and cuts of the fabrics, the featured colors, and the motifs.
The tribal inspirations are not only reflected in the designs, but also in the values of the company; recognizing and respecting the forces of nature, advocating quality and originality.
The collection consisted of a series of items inspired by the designer's tribal heritage. A native of the Tagin tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, Nixon blends the ancient tribal and the minimal Scandinavian, the old and the new. The essence of the brand can be described as an urban expression of tribal energy, implementing the tribal philosophy into the modern world.
The pilot collection ‘Urban Tribal’ shown on the runway, is made up of t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, pants, and caps. All in all 21 unique pieces inspired from the tribal lifestyle of Northeast India, made to tell the stories of the tribal communities, all the designs are in some way a testament to the beautiful and rich culture of the designer’s tribal background.
The Green Week runway show was a great opportunity for us to show our brand, and also show Copenhagen what we are about. And the response has been great! What I am most happy about is that I am able to represent Northeast India to the Western world. And it’s amazing to see how curious people are about my heritage and they want to know more about it. That’s already an achievement for me,’ said Nixon in a press release.
Mobile camp for biometric enrolment of citizens in Capital
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: A meeting in connection with the proposed seven days mobile camp for biometric enrollment of citizens under National Population Register (NPR) in Itanagar and Naharlagun was held in the conference of the Capital Complex Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Kumar Singh on Wednesday.
Highlighting the importance of AADHAAR card, the DC called for ensuring cent percent coverage of population under BME for AADHAAR card generation as it has become mandatory to link AADHAAR number to get direct benefit transfer in PDS, LPG subsidy etc. Besides, it acts as an important document in education, government services, banking, monthly pension, passport, proof of identity and proof of address etc, he said.
The DC further informed that the mobile camp would cover few areas in Itanagar and Naharlagun in the first phase and the rest of the areas would be covered in the next phase. Singh appealed everyone to come forward and get themselves enrolled under BME.
He also sought cooperation from the Councilors to create awareness as well as ensure maximum coverage from their respective wards.
The DC further informed that in a single day, 300- 350 persons could be enrolled at one mop up camp.
NPR forms and posters were also provided to the Councilors for distribution. Regular publicity through announcement would also be carried out in the respective areas ahead of the scheduled day.
Later, the DC informed that NPR forms could be collected from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, EAC Itanagar, EAC Naharlagun, CO Banderdewa or from the respective Councilors. Even the Xerox copies of the forms would be accepted, the DC said.
The Capital Administration is going to organize a Mobile Biometric camp for a week in Itanagar and Naharlagun from March 28 for those, who are yet to get enrolled under BME.
The meeting cum sensitization programme was attended by councilors, the EACs of Itanagar and Naharlagun, CO, DSO, DFCSO and BME mobile camp operators. DIPRO
Governor calls for meaningful contributions
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: Inspector General, Northeast Frontier Headquarters, Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Shillong Manoj Singh Rawat called on Governor JP Rajkhowa at Raj Bhavan here on Wednesday and discussed on various issues including security and improvement of communication of border areas.
The Governor, while appreciating the role and effort of the ITBP in Arunachal Pradesh, emphasized on their meaningful and positive contributions towards the security and prosperity of people of the State. He advised the ITBP to extend humanitarian assistances, particularly medicines to the people in border areas. Whatever possible, State Government will also provide any assistance or requirement to the organization, the Governor assured.
The Governor, who had been strongly advocating for it, stated that it is in the National interest and for mutual benefit of the local people and the organization. Such initiative will contain the migration of indigenous population from border areas to urban neighbourhood, Rajkhowa said.
The Governor suggested for one battalion of ITBP in the State Capital dedicatedly available for emergency situation. While assuring his support for the project, the Governor advised the Inspector General to discuss with the State Government and district administration for necessary requirement.
The ITBP Inspector General, who has taken over as the head of ITBP of North East Frontier informed the Governor that the force would always like to integrate with the local people to work in harmony. In its effort, the force has distributed solar lamps, medicines and rations and constructed toilet blocks wherever necessary by the civilian population. The IG also put forward some suggestions for benefit of the local people near their forward posts.
Ajay Pal Singh, DIG, Sector HQ, Itanagar, I.S. Duhan, DIG, Northeast Frontier and A.P. Yadav, Commandant, Sector HQ were also present in the meeting. PRO to Raj Bhawan
SBI donates wheel chairs, trolleys and stretchers to Hospital
ZIRO, Mar 23: State Bank of India (SBI), Ziro branch under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) scheme has donated four trolleys and equal numbers of stretchers and wheel chairs to General Hospital, Ziro on Wednesday in presence of Deputy Commissioner cum Chairman District Health Society Kemo Lollen.
Appreciating the noble gesture of SBI, Lollen advised the bank to identify needy areas to address the problems through the CSR. He also exhorted the hosts of doctors and nurses present on the occasion to work with a missionary zeal. He assured the medical team to extend all possible help and assistance within his capacity for improving the health scenario of the district.
Chief Manager SBI Deva Nanda Milli highlighted the various programmes under the CSR component of the bank.
DMO Dr Moli Riba, DRCHO Dr. Derin Likar, SMO Koj Korming, doctors, nurses and paramedical staffs were present in the programme. DIPRO
CBNAAT machine for TB diagnosis at Pasighat Dist. Hospital
PASIGHAT, Mar 23: Jt. Director of Health Services (T&R) Dr. Kabang Lego on Wednesday inaugurated a Cartridge Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (CBNAAT) machine at the District Tuberculosis Centre (DTC), Pasighat.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Lego said that the diagnosis test that existed earlier was quite troublesome for the doctors and our patients had to wait for long time to get results. Such technology was made available only in limited places across the country and here, we had to send sputum to Guwahati or Naharlagun for the purpose. It was also risky considering the possibility of the infected being in contact with a healthy person but with the new test method, made available here our patients will get their treatment immediately.”
District Tuberculosis Officer (DTO) Dr. Y. Perme informed that the centrally funded CBNAAT machine is an important tool to diagnose tuberculosis within just two hours. In the open market, CBNAAT testing cost is very high but now in Pasighat DTC, the test will be conducted free of cost and patients of Siang, East Siang, West Siang and neighboring Assam will be largely benefitted. DIPRO
Governor, CM greets people on Holi
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: Arunachal Pradesh Governor JP Rajkhowa and Chief Minister Kalikho Pul have extended greetings and good wishes to the people of the state on the festive occasion of Holi. Governor expressed hope that the festivity, which marks the onset of spring, will usher in peace, happiness and prosperity to all.
In his festival message, the Governor said that Holi symbolises boundless joy and the vivid shades of the Indian composite culture. It promotes deep social and cultural message of unity in diversity for all. He further wished that the festival, which is celebrated throughout the country by everyone, irrespective of caste, class, creed or origin continues to reinforce the social fabric of goodwill and harmony.
May the festival strengthen our proud composite culture and bring colours to the lives of the people, the Governor wished.
In his message to the people of Arunachal, the Chief Minister expressed that Holi comes at the onset of spring, which marks the spirit of rekindling of life.
Celebrated with gaiety and enthusiasm, the festival makes us forget our differences and spreads the message of brotherhood and friendship, the message read.
Also, it is the time to commemorate the victory of good over evil and to reach out with the colours of joy. It is also the time to love and forgive. And the time to expresses the happiness of being loved and to be loved through colours.
Fire guts 2 dwelling houses
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: Two dwelling houses were burnt down in a fire accident in Longliang village under Lazu circle in Tirap district on March 21 at around 3.30 pm.
As the owners of the houses were out and busy in field works, not a single article could be saved. DIPRO
17 illegally constructed shops sealed
TEZU, Mar 23: Lohit District Administration with help of Police on Tuesday sealed 17 illegally constructed shops in Tezu market area.
SDO cum Estate Officer Tezu Gautam Hazarika, who along with Town Magistrate Duyu Ribya carried out drive, warned all the illegal encroachers of stringent action in future.
Several notices were served to the individual shop owners and shopkeepers before the action was initiated.
Further, orders were issued to the illegal encroachers in ALC Line and other areas within Tezu town. DIPRO
Full-fledged Lokayukta demanded
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: All Arunachal Contractor’s Welfare Association (AACWA), in a memorandum, has appealed to the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh for immediate constitution of a full-fledged Lokayukta in the State for transparent, accountable and corruption free governance.
It said that the State Govt. was supposed to constitute a full-fledged Lokayukta body by the month of February, 2015 but even after more than a year the said body has not been constituted, stated AAWCA in its memorandum. It further demanded to execute all schemes sanctioned under RE of Annual Development Agenda -2015-16 by inviting open NIT and as per Arunachal Pradesh District Base Entrepreneurs Act.2015.
Students Union reacts on Wangham’s statement
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: The Longding District Students Union (LDSU) on Wednesday sharply reacted on MLA Thangwang Wangham’s statement wherein he claimed that district students’ union indulged in lobbying for ministerial berth in Kalikho Pul led ministry.
Expressing surprise over MLA’s statement; the union stated that Longding is a new district which needs much care and development. Londing had already lost an MLA seat following political tussling recent past and people are yet to be recovered from agony after the death of veteran leader N Tingkhatra, the Union said adding “in such situation it is so irony that Wangham is opposing his fellow citizen in their claim for ministerial berth”. “We never spread wrong message to people or mislead them rather appealed to Chief Minister to induct a leader from the district in his Cabinet,” the union clarified. LDSU further claimed that nowhere in its representation it mentioned Honchun Ngandam’s name for the ministerial berth. Affirming that it had only pleaded the Chief Minister for cabinet ministerial post for betterment of the district, the union denied any campaign in favour of former chief minister Nabam Tuki during political turmoil, rather made it clear that the union had appealed their representatives to come back home to work for its people.
Be proactive for proper implementation of mission Indradhanush: DC
ROING, Mar 23: Lower Dibang Valley DC Ravi Dhawan called on all the medical officers and other officials involved in mission Indradhanush to be proactive and suggested them to impart effective training to ANMs and Anganwadi workers for its proper implementation.
The DC was addressing a meeting of third phase for programme under District Task Force for Immunization (DTFI) on SWITCH and mission Indradhanush at the DC’s office chamber here on Mar 22.
He further said that all unvaccinated and partially vaccinated children should be fully immunized under the special drive and urged them to create mass awareness among parents and all stake holders.
DMO, Dr. D Wange in his address also briefed on DTFI on SWITCH and mission Indradhanush and informed that on every 7th of the month along with the mission, routine immunization drive will be carried out in all the outreach areas in the district which will last for a week every month.
The programme was attended by district RCH officer, PHED EE, M Linggi and medical officers from all circles of the district. (DIPRO)
Women Commission condemns rape of widow
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) has strongly condemned the recent shocking incident of gang rape of widow at Pasighat on March 17 by two persons.
Expressing serious concern over the safety and security of women in the State, the State Women Commission urged the Government to look into such incident seriously.
The APSCW also requested the East Siang SP to expedite the investigation of the case and no accused person should be granted bail.
Also expressing grave concern over increasing incidents of crime against women and children in East Siang District, the Commission requested the judicial fraternity to take up such cases on priority.
ZPM clarifies on HLS distribution
Correspondent
ROING, Mar 23: Responding to the allegation of diversion and biased distribution of Home Lighting System (HLS ) under CSR Scheme of the Government against him, the ZPM of 9-Bomjir Anpum Block has given a clarification on the matter.
A group of senior citizens from Bizari-C village had earlier lodged a complaint against the ZPM alleging that although 64 HLS were allocated for the village, 18 of the beneficiaries listed in the benefactors list finalised by the ASM were not provided with the HLS. However, the ZPM has claimed that he has received only 63 HLS, out of which 3 are defective.
"I have informed the PO APEDA regarding the damaged products, which she has assured to replace", he said.
"Out of the 18 beneficiaries who allegedly haven't received the HLS, one has been provided, two households have also been provided but in their respective son's names, another two are in halt because of damaged products", said the ZPM.
"One of the beneficiaries settled for CGI Sheets instead of the HLS, while one of the names shown on the list is not identified as to belonging from the village at all", he added. He also said that the remaining names were not present in the list signed and submitted to him by the ASM of the village.
"Keeping aside all political differences, we selected the truly needy families on priority basis. Although the requirement for the HLS to light our homes, especially after the devastating flood situation our block had faced last year after which electricity has not yet been restored and darkness still prevails in the lower belt area, not all houses have been provided with the HLS, and we are definitely going to address this matter to the higher authority and the Government", he further said.
Meanwhile, as per information, the unfairly distributed HLS at Banggo village under Dambuk Circle has not been restored to the rightful beneficiaries yet even after constant interference by the DA in favour of the victims.
DHS provides incentives to over 200 ASHAs
DAPORIJO, Mar 23: In all, 286 ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists) and 32 ASHA facilitators of Upper Subansiri district were rewarded with incentives for promoting maternal and child health under Janani Suraksha Yojana, home based new born care visits, maintaining village health register and supporting universal registration of birth and death, preparation of due list of children to be immunized and other activities by the Upper Subansiri District Health Society here today.
Incentives amounting to Rs. 39,66,800 (Thirty nine lakhs sixty six thousand eight hundred) were paid to them through the implementation of Public Financial Monitoring Systems under National Health Mission on the basis of proper monthly reports submitted by them.
The DHS also awarded Rs. 5000 to ‘Best ASHA’ to Giba circle ASHA facilitator, Yape Luchi on the occasion.(DIPRO)
World TB Day today
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: Like previous years, the District Health Society (RNTCP) in collaboration with State Health Society (RNTCP) will observe the World TB Day on March 24 at Tomo Riba State Hospital, Naharlagun by organizing a seminar on TB.
To mark the day, various activities like, radio and TV talks on TB, essay competition among school children, sharing of experience by cured and under treatment patients are being organized.
The Society appealed to all to come forward and make concerted effort to fight and eliminate TB from the world.
Over 100 benefitted from RCH-cum-youth camp
YINGKIONG, Mar 23: Over 150 patients were treated for various ailments during a day-long Reproductive and Child Health-cum-Youth Camp on IEC/BCC Information, Education and Communication (IEC) and Behaviour Change Communication (BCC) organized by Yingkiong DRCHO to create awareness among the youths here on Mar 18 last.
During the awareness camp, a team of doctors led by DRCHO, Dr. Appir Apang, SMO (SG), Dr. J Tekseng, SMO, Dr. K Patuk, GNM, Baming Shanti, ANMs Gumsum Raji and Elina Mize and CA NRHM, Dubom Tekseng attended to the patients and explained about maternal health and family planning to the youths. (DIPRO)
Memo submitted
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: The Arunachal Anti-Corruption Union has in a memorandum submitted to the Chief Minister today appealed him not to induct persons with corrupt background in his ministry and also not to appoint corrupt persons as Parliamentary Secretaries and Chairmen.
While welcoming the CM’s stance of zero tolerance on corruption, the Union further appealed to him to appoint only experienced persons with clean image or elected public representatives to the posts of chairperson in Govt undertakings and authorities.
‘Illegal ILP trade in B’dewa’
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: All Banderdewa Circle Students’ Union (ABCSU) and Banderdewa Karsingsa Youth Welfare Association (BKYWA) along with the Assistant Education Secretary of All Nyishi Students’ Union have lodged a complaint with the Circle Officer (CO) Banderdewa of illegally selling temporary Inner Line Permits (ILP), forms, provisional certificates etc in the vendors of Banderdewa Bazaar line near check gate.
They demanded the CO to stop such illegal practices by issuing strict order as per the Govt. rules and guidelines.
Workers’ Union demand holding DPC
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: Claiming that proper Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) has not been held in the PHE&WS department since 1995 depriving regularization of jobs of most of the casual labourers, typist, peon etc., the All Arunachal Pradesh Public Health Engineering & Water Supply Department Workers’ Union (AAPPHE& WSDWU) has in a letter to the PHE&WS (WZ/EZ) Chief Engineer today appealed to him to hold DPC within 3 months i.e. April to June 2016, failing which it threatened to resort to democratic action.
The Union, in its letter said that despite serving the department for over 30 years most of the staff have not been regularized and appealed to the CE to ensure holding of DPC every year to ensure timely promotion of staff.
Meeting on preparedness of NSD day
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: The first District Task Force meeting on National Switch Day on tOPV to bOPV was held under the chairmanship of West Siang Deputy Commissioner Pige Ligu at the Conference Hall of DC office on Monday last.
The meeting discussed at length on preparedness of National Switch Day (NSD) for tOPV to bOPV on April 25. The DC exhorted the Medical fraternity to work out detailed preparedness to launch the programme worth its motto. The District Medical Officer, Dr. Marbom Basar highlighted the significance of this National programme and sought the cooperation of all at different level to make it a peoples’ programme. All the sterilized waste of tOPV of entire West Siang District will be disposed off safely with the assistance of Urban & Housing department on National Switch Day, DIPRO.
State Wushu team to participate in Sub-Junior National Wushu C’ship
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: A 24-member strong state Wushu team is going to participate in the ensuing 15th Sub-Junior National Wushu Championship, 2016 which is slated to be held at Haridwar, Utttrakhand from Mar 27 to Apr 1 next.
The team comprising of 14 girls and 10 boys will be led by two officials, informed an All Arunachal Pradesh Wushu Association (AAPWA) release.
Awareness camp on fish and fisheries development held
YINGKIONG, Mar 23: A day-long awareness camp on fish and fisheries development was organised at the DFDO’s office here on Mar 22 last.
The training on skill development on fisheries development was imparted by GPTI, a local vocational training provider.
Speaking on the occasion, DC Remo Kamki said that local fish is more nutritious for health and economical than the fishes brought from outside the state and advised the women to take part in more such trainings to uplift their economic status. DFDO, Kenbom Chisi, ADTH, Gindu Tayeng and DLRSO, M Boje were also present on the occasion. (DIPRO)
Cancellation of land allotment demanded
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: A group of resident on Wednesday has written to the Secretary, Land Management requesting him for immediate cancellation of approved land allotment in Anne-Donyi Park in Seppa township to eight individuals.
Armed with RTI documents obtained by one Madho Cheda, a group of four residents including Madho Cheda in its representation to the Land Management secretary, claimed that the park land with total area of 3400 Square meters had been allotted to eight people. Department of Urban Development and Housing had sanctioned Rs 5, 21,11800 (Five crore twenty one lakhs eleven thousand eight hundred) as part of infrastructure development and beautification of Seppa Township including Anne Donyi Park, they further said.
It is said that Ane-Donyi park, a recreational park was inaugurated by then Deputy Chief Minister Kameng Dolo way back in 2003-04 which was earmarked from former Advance Landing Ground (ALG cum general ground).
Earlier, a petition was also filed with Gauhati High Court Itanagar permanent bench, in which the court had directed the authority not to approve the land allotment in favour of occupants, the representation claimed.
Demanding revival of the lost park, the representation further informed that East Kameng district Deputy Commissioner Deepak Shinde had also written to Secretary, Land Management on March 7 last for cancellation and rolling back of approved land allotment to mentioned individuals.
Literary competition held as part of Mopin celebration
AALO Mar 23: A literary activities as part of the golden jubilee Mopin celebration kicked off today amidst competitive temperament. Miss Marya Lollen, Miss Pinu Lollen and Miss Kijum Padu came first, second and third respectively in the Folk Tale writing competition while Gomar Angu, Moji Bagra and Mijum Lona came first, second and third in the seminar on the topic “50 years of Mopin Celebration, its impact on society and road ahead”.
Attending the function Minjom Bagra exhorted the Festival Committee to keep up the wide range of good initiatives being taken up this time around to make the festival a mega event and suggested officers and public to contribute generously. Doi Ado President GJCMCC said that the institution of priesthood is at stake as the ritual chanting, folklores like Yaan Kaben, Anna Yo Anna etc. are gradually been forgotten. Efforts will be made for preservation and documentation of indigenous culture and rituals.
Restructuring of NIC office launched
YINGKIONG, Mar 23: The restructuring and painting work of NIC office Upper Siang was launched by DC Remo Kamki amidst the presence of DIO Niraj Singh, officers and staff of NIC and DC office. The said work has been funded by DC's untied fund 2015-16 and executed by DRDA. (DIPRO)
State unit BJP remembers martyrs
ITANAGAR, Mar 23: The Arunachal Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday organized the “Martyrdom Day of Shaheed Bhagat Singh at the party headquarter here. The party senior leaders, state office bearers, Morchas and other party workers paid floral tributes to the portraits of Martyrs on the occasion.
State Vice President Kenyir Ringu in her short address hailed the courage of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru for revolting against the British authority and laying their lives for the freedom of our great country.
She condemned Congress and Left parties in her strongest terms for comparing Kanhaiya Kumar with Bhagat Singh and others.
Hailing Bhagat Singh’s valiant act, party General Secretary Dominic Tadar said Bhagat Singh laid down his life at very young age for the country. Tadar further called upon the youth take lead role against social stigma, corruption and wrong practices in the state.
BR Waghe, state BJP general secretary highlighted the background of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and asked the gathering to remember those three Martyrs who laid down their lives for the freedom of our country.
Kiong Primary School threatened by landslides
YINGKIONG, Mar 23: The retaining wall of the Govt. Kiong Primary School at WRD Colony, which was constructed and repaired last year only, fell down again due to incessant rains from March 14 to 16.
The school building is frequently threatened by landslides and it may collapse anytime. The headmaster and the teachers of the school have appealed to the authority of the concern department, District Administration and local MLA for early solution of the recurring landslides. DIPRO
Exposure visit cum educational tour
ROING, Mar 23: SSA Lower Dibang Valley DDSE Mijom Lego flagged off an Exposure visit cum educational tour of girl students conducted under SSSA District Mission, Lower Dibang Valley.
The team will visit various historical and other important places in Delhi, Agra and Amritsar.
Editorial
Allow dual usage of ALG
Without any hype recently Indian Air Force (IAF) reactivated some of the Advanced
Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh which has been upgraded by the government
of India. ALGs at Ziro and Aalo were inaugurated on March 12 by Air Marshal C Hari
Kumar, Air Officer Commanding-
The decision to upgrade existing ALGs was taken by UPA government with an eye on
growing Chinese threat. Following an approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security
(CCS) in June 2009, the IAF began an ambitious plan to upgrade and operationalise
the existing eight ALGs. The outlay plan for the upgradation of ALGs alone is nearly
Rs. 1,000 crore. The upgradation of these strategic airfields will go long way in
catering to the needs of military establishment. C-
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Readers’ Forum
Teach tribal languages to our children
Dear Editor,
Through the columns of your esteemed daily, I would like to draw the attention of our common public towards the vanishing tribal languages and cultures.
As our state and its peoples are modernizing and becoming more civilized than earlier, the younger generations are losing their tribal identity. Nowadays most of the youngsters, mostly in towns don't know how to speak their languages. Some only know a few words or sentences! So with this comes a responsibility for our elders to teach their children their languages and tell them about their culture.
But it is also a responsibility of our state government to promote the tribal languages of Arunachal. Tribal Languages should be taught in Schools. A new "Tani lipi" or "Tani script" which was recently developed by Tony Koyu and other peoples should be taught in schools of Tani inhabited areas. Peoples should modernize, but also should be rooted to their culture. But some peoples might say that this extra subject will add more burdens on children and affect other subjects. But I don't think it will cause any problems to children as children of our state study subjects like Hindi and "Sanskrit", which is more difficult than our Tani script.
In other states of India, beside regular courses, children are taught their own scripts; in Kerala, children study their Malayalam script, Kannada are taught to children of Karnataka and our neighbouring state of Assam teaches Assamese script in schools. So this calls for a need to teach our younger generation our own script, not only to protect our tribal identity but preserve and promote it. A joint effort of the education department and ministry of tribal affairs can make this possible.
So at last, I would like to request all the parents and the elders that until our state government do something about this issue, it becomes our responsibility to teach our children our noble Tani language. And never let our culture disappear, after all "Loss of culture is loss of Identity."
Yours,
Tarjen Uli
Itanagar
Arunachal is closely watching the APPSC
Dear Editor,
The APPSCCE,2013-
After all the hue and cry, everyone expected the APPSC to conduct the examination
in the most transparent and fair manner free from any controversies. But, even after
the mains examination, it took them 6 months to declare the mains result. One wonders
what possibly could be the reason for such an inordinate delay because 6 months time
is no doubt too long a period for checking the answer scripts of few hundred students
and no word justifies such an act. Then, after 6 long months, the mains result was
declared on 4th February, 2016 where only 132 candidates were selected for viva-
Now, after the declaration of final merit list, the APPSC is denying to furnish even the marks statement of the qualified candidates not to talk of their answer scripts. Previously, anyone could take out the mark sheets of any candidate through IPO. And through RTI, they could also get a copy of the answer scripts of the candidates by paying the requisite fees. Earlier, the Commission used to boast of giving unrestricted access to the candidate's answer scripts and award sheets through the RTI Act, 2005 as a reassurance measure to maintain transparent and fair practice. Then, why suddenly this time it has been withdrawn? Why are they so scared to publish the marks of every candidate? If the staff are lazy and get tired digging through computer database to take print out of few RTI applicant's marks and their boss get tired signing each RTI reply letter, they must upload the result and marks of each candidate right on their official website to save themselves from the fatigue.
Even UPSC, the central recruiting agency at the level of the union, though burdened with thousands and thousands of recruitments each year, started uploading the mark sheets of prelims, mains and interview for every candidate irrespective of pass/fail from 2013 then why the APPSC that is less burdened cannot do it?
It is important to know the marks of the selected candidates because only through this we can know where and why we got good/bad marks. Without knowing the pros and cons how will we score better next time?
Also, there could be wrong checking/marking/wrong totaling. There could be tremendous disparities in awarding marks. In the past also, there were cases of tampering of answer scripts. Earlier also the APPSC was directed by the Honourable court to verify the awarding of marks on receipt of complaints from candidates. For all these reasons, it is extremely important to see the marks and answer scripts of all the candidates. Only this will instill in us a sense of fair play in the whole recruitment process.
If the examination was fair why are they reluctant to show the mark sheets and answer scripts of all the candidates from this time only? After all the hue and cry, we expected a clean, fair and transparent recruitment process free from any controversies but the reluctance of the APPSC in giving access to the answer scripts and award sheets is only making us skeptical now.
Through this, I, therefore, appeal the higher authorities to kindly look into the matter seriously and do the needful for the benefit of the student community at large. I also appeal my fellow aspirants to wake up and ask for their rights and don't merely wait for others to initiate. If large number of students will file RTI definitely clear picture will come out. We are asking what is rightfully ours and it is the duty of the APPSC to furnish the information as sought without further delay.
I hope the APPSC will oblige and do the needful at the earliest as the whole matter is before the public now and entire Arunachal is closely watching the APPSC. And, I am sure the Commission is wise enough to avoid itself from being dragged into another huge controversy.
Yours,
An aspirant
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