March 30
2016
Police resorts to firing as EAC office attacked in Diyun, two injured
Staff Reporter
NEW DELHI, Mar 29: At least two people are reported to be injured following police firing in Diyun, Changlang this afternoon after a mob attacked the office of the EAC following a hearing pertaining to demarcation of a new Hajong village. The police resorted to firing after the mob did not allow them to get inside the compound of the EAC office after violence broke out.
According to eye witness, there was heavy stone pelting, the windows and doors of the EAC office was destroyed as well as the personal vehicle of APCS officer, Datum Gadi who was conducting the hearing. The EAC was reported to be locked up in his own chamber by protestors. Report states that Gadi had summoned two representatives each from the Madhupur-II and Madhupur-I villages for the hearing after a controversy over the demarcation of a new village but when a mob landed at his office, he ordered them out, which led to the violence.
The state police is reported to have asked for additional forces from CRPF to control the situation at Diyun, which remains tense.
At the time of filing this report, SP Changlang and ADC, Bordumsa had arrived at Diyun to access the situation.
Meanwhile, the Committee for Citizenship Rights of the Chakmas and Hajongs of Arunachal Pradesh (CCRCHAP) alleged that Adesh Chandra Hajong, Gaon Burah of Madhupur-I Hajong village in Diyun, who also is a member of Joint High Power Committee on Chakma-Hajong Issue, was attacked by the EAC inside his chamber. The EAC denied the charges of physical attack but said that argument had broken out between them regarding a complaint.
Arunachal Pradesh Civil Service Officers Association has condemned the attack on the EAC office and intimidation of the officer. It said that govt should seriously deal with those responsible so that such problems are not repeated. Its General Secretary Likha Tejji said that repeated attack on officers will not be tolerated and that government should give full protection to the officers so that they can carry out their job peacefully.
Discrepancies in allocation of CGI sheets to Puroiks
ITANGAR, Mar 29: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has alleged irregularities in the distribution of CGI Sheets to the Puroik Community in East Kameng.
In a letter to the Additional Deputy Commissioner, East Kameng, the Party’s State Secretary Vijay Sonam said that there are discrepancies in the beneficiaries list of the 388 Puroik families of Rawa and Pordung Solung Villages as the 1st installment under Rural Housing Scheme.
Substantiating his claims with documents, Sonam said that there are double entries against several names.
“Either those persons were given double benefit or CGI sheets has been misused. In either case, it should be recovered from the officials for non-issuance of CGI sheets or from the beneficiaries who availed more than he or she deserved, Sonam said.
He further said that there are name of persons in the beneficiary list, who have already died while in some instances, husband and wife are the beneficiaries.
Distributions of CGI Sheets to two persons of a household depict a clear picture of favouritism for vested interest, Sonam said while adding that action should be initiated against the defaulting officers and that the surplus CGI sheets should be recovered from such beneficiaries so that a family gets a shelter.
He further alleged that CGI Sheets were not issued by the authorities even though their names are in the list.
The discrepancies are of very serious nature, he said while suggesting that the loss should be realised or recovered so that the genuine beneficiaries get their due share.
Never ending flip-flops
[ Tongam Rina ]
Sept last year, Governor J P Rajkhowa wrote a letter to the Prime Minister regarding the proposed Green Field Airport at Hollongi near Itanagar. The letter was filled with complaints at the futility of Governor's effort for a transparent site selection and land acquisition in order to avoid "unnecessary controversies". The zealous governor went as far to suggest that Hollongi plan should be scrapped, instead Lilabari in Lakhimpur, Assam be upgraded. It's a different issue that he has now suggested for more Greenfield airports after his suggestions of shifting the proposed airport out of the state drew flak. Such change in stand, at the whims and fancies of those in power, including the Governor, will not do any good to the state other than confusing the central government, further slowing the entire process.
If one recalls, in the letter Governor made it clear that due to vested interests of "powerful politicians", the proposal of setting up the airport at Karsingsa was scrapped and Hollongi selected for the project. Though the letter was filled with disdain and some facts misplaced, nonetheless it highlighted how things terribly go wrong in the state because of vested interest.
Arunachal Pradesh remains one of the last states in India not to have an airport. At the rate, the issue on airport is being taken up; it is unlikely that there would be any soon, though the process of having an airport in the state was initiated way back in 1985. Finally, the prospect of having one took shape in February 20, 2007 when the then Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil laid the foundation stone for an airport in Karsingsa, some 25 kms from Itanagar. But the intervening period have seen flip-flops on site selection, so typical of Arunachal.
In March 2009, Public Investment Board raised objections due to high cost on earth work and suggested for exploring an alternate site even though the Ministry of Defence issued a No Objection Certificate in June 2007 for construction of the Greenfield airport at Karsingsa with several preconditions.
With preconditions difficult to abide by, a new site was sought as the Airport Authority of India recommended Hollangi after reports by the Feasibility and Technical experts in 2012.
Now, after all the noise, Raj Bhavan informs that Airport Authority of India needs 525 acre of land free of cost and free of all encumbrances, for the Greenfield Airport at Hollongi. In all likelihood, the absurd demand will not be accepted by the people.
Gone are the days of handing over land for free to Government of India. Most of prime land in several parts of Arunachal has been occupied by the Indian Army and central govt establishments for free but these days, people of Arunachal will not part with an inch of land without monetary compensation. All major projects including the Trans Arunachal Highway is yet to take off because of issue of land compensation. For politicians and government officers, land acquisition has been the ultimate mode of making money. Understandably, common citizens are fast learners. They will not part an inch of their land or budge from their demands of exorbitant compensation amount since money has to be made in the name of development. In the meantime, new constructions as well as plantations will come up in the areas proposed for acquisition, which will be gladly incorporated in the compensation package by the government officials in exchange of 'cuts'.
Perhaps, the next best alternative is to seek permission to use the facilities at the Advance Landing Grounds in Vijaynagar, Walong, Ziro, Aalo, Mechuka, Tuting and Pasighat for civilians till the state, Raj Bhavan and Centre figures out where they want to have the airport and when. One never knows when one might get lucky so till then, it is a good idea to plant bamboos, bananas and build structures along the roadside.
Centre committed for development of NE : Yadav
Additional fund of Rs 8.71 Cr. released for drinking water in Arunachal
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: Union Minister of State for Drinking Water and Sanitation Ram Kripal Yadav today said the Centre is committed for the development of North East at par with rest of the country.
"There is no dearth of fund. If the state government wants we will provide more funds. Water and sanitation is a state subject and the government should prepare feasible projects to get allocation from the Centre... There is need for vigorous pursuance from the state government's side," Yadav told PTI.
Yadav, who is on a day-long visit to Arunachal Pradesh to take stock of drinking water and sanitation projects, said he had come as per the directive given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi who attached top priority for the development of North East.
"The prime minister has directed all ministers to spend more time in the region and see that all the central funds are being utilised judiciously," Yadav said.
"My ministry today released an additional Rs 20.9 crore to five NE states under National Rural Drinking Water Project (NRDWP). For Arunachal Pradesh Rs 8.71 crore, Meghalaya Rs 4.56 crore, Tripura Rs 4.18 crore, Assam Rs 1.8 crore and Sikkim Rs 1.65 crore was given from the Rs 200 crore unutilised fund of the ministry under the scheme for last year," he said.
Expressing concern over slow implementation of projects under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, he said many people are still ignorant about the central scheme under which Rs 12000 is being given to every household for constructing latrine in 90:10 ratio (90 per cent central grant and ten per cent state's share).
Yadav visited Ziro in Lower Subansiri district during the day and interacted with the people to know the status of household latrines and drinking water facilities in the district headquarters.
Later, he said though 64 per cent latrines have been constructed at Ziro but the pace for total sanitation was slow and stressed on conducting a survey of every household in Arunachal Pradesh.
The union minister of state for drinking water and sanitation said his ministry had allocated Rs 56.69 crore in 2015-16 to the state for drinking water schemes.
The total allocation to the state under the scheme is 72.78 crore after adding the left over amount of Rs 16.09 crore from 2014-15 allocation, he said adding Rs 38.71 crore was released during 2015-16 to the state under sanitation programme. After addition of the left over amount of Rs 5.14 crore from 2014-15 allocation under the scheme it was Rs 43.85 crore.
However, only 25 per cent of the funds - that is only Rs 15.36 crore have been spent so far.
Referring to the drinking water sector in the state, he said much needed to be done to provide drinking water to the people and the NDA government is committed to provide 70 litres water per person per day throughout the country by 2022.
Solid waste management is a major component of Swacch Bharat Andolan and the state government should stress more on solid waste management to make it successful.
Under Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana, Rs 67.16 crore out of sanctioned Rs 68.56 crore for 4,689 beneficiaries had been disbursed to Arunachal pRadesh by the Centre as on March 25, he added, reports PTI.
Ziro DIPRO adds: Interacting with the villagers of Bula and Hari, the Union Minister said that he was there to ensure and make the Prime Minister’s dream to facilitate every household with safe drinking water and Individual Household Latrine by 2019 a reality.
Being learned that few families still did not have IHHL, the Union Minster directed the officer concerned to take up the matter immediately.
He inspected the newly constructed HHL under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan at Siiro and expressed satisfaction over the quality of work. At Siiro middle school, he planted trees, signifying the spirit of SBM.
The Minister also visited the world famous Shivlingam at Kardo hills and offered prayers to Lord Shiva.
Later, during an interactive session with the HODs and PRI members, local MLA Tage Taki presented an overview of the water supply system in the Ziro plateau. He apprised the Union Minister about the water scarcity in the plateau during dry and winter seasons due to the absence of any perennial water sources.
The rain fed small streams have been so far judiciously engineered by the Apatani people for both agricultural as well as household use. But with the growing population, the streams will no longer be able to cater to the needs, Taki reasoned while presenting a single-point memorandum to the minister for a Mega water supply project by tapping the water from Pange river.
The Minister was accompanied by Lombo Tayeng, Minister, PHE and Water Supply, G. Balasubramanium, Deputy Advisor, PHE, Randhir Kumar, Asst. Advisor to MoS, Alo Libang, CEs Toko Jyoti and Tomo Basar, MLA Tamar Murtem, ZPC Hage Kobing, DC Kemo Lollen, SP T. Amo among others.
Police cracks five-year-old revenge killing case
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: City Police has solved a five-year old revenge killing case with the arrest of one Kipa Kasung, son of Lt. Kipa Rongma of Village Sango, under Nyapin in Kurung Kumey.
The Police team led by City Police Chief Devender Arya, SDPO Naharlagun Jummar Basar and Investigation officer SI T Loya cracked the five-year-old case.
Kasung allegedly killed Gyamar Pacha on 14 March 2011 in Rakap colony, Naharlagun with a machete to avenge the death of his father. Since then Kasung had been on the run from the Police. After years of hide and seek, the police arrested Kipa Kasung from Gohpur area, Itanagar on March 28.
The case was registered with Naharlagun Police Station on the same day of the offence.
Kasung carried out the brutal crime to keep a promise that his dying father Lt. Kipa Rongma extracted from him when he was a nine year old child.
According to police, Late Rongma was killed at the hands of Gyamar Tayu because of a family feud. Just before he died, Rongma told his son to take revenge by killing Tayu. A grown up Kasung started the hunt for Tayu, only to find out that he had died. This however did not stop Kasung from plotting the revenge.
To avenge the death of his father and to keep the promise he had made, Kasung had to kill someone from the family of his father’s killer which led him to Gyamar Pacha.
While the practice of revenge killing has come down considerably, but there are several instances of such horrific crimes being committed in the name of honour. Often families involved live in constant fear because of the vulnerable situations they find themselves into, said a police officer.
CM assures to implement rehabilitation package for former militants
[ Tom Simai ]
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: A wave of hope engulfed the districts affected by insurgency as Chief Minister Kalikho Pul assured to prioritize the implementation of surrender and rehabilitation policy (SRP) for former militants (surrendered youths) on Tuesday.
The assurance was given to SUWAAP (Surrendered Underground Welfare Association of Arunachal Pradesh) Secretary Kento Ori by Chief Minister Pul in presence of PPA Chairman Kemen Rengu and PPA Secretary Kaling Zerang at his official residence on Monday.
Until now, none of the government has ever communicated with the surrendered youths and Pul has become the first person to heed the plights of surrendered youths. The decision is expected to alter the fate of hundreds of surrendered youths currently languishing in various corners of the five districts-- Tirap, Changlang, Longding, Namsai and Lohit.
Prior to this, the SRP subject was considered as taboo, all the previous government had been evading the subject with justification that the surrendered cadres belonging to Naga outfits don’t qualify for rehabilitation packages in Arunachal Pradesh.
PPA Secretary Kaling Zerang moved by the plight of the surrendered youths said, “It is our moral obligation to provide whatever support we can to help the surrendered youths to join the mainstream of development.”
He further said that as the surrendered youths jeopardizing everything in search of dignified life dared to come forward by giving up arms, it is utmost important that we compliment that step by fulfilling their expectations.
“We have also included SRP in our agenda and we will soon frame a policy to rehabilitate the former militants,” he further disclosed.
He believed that introduction of SRP will not only aid to alter the fate of the surrendered youths but also help to lure back the misguided youths.
“Without the SRP, any effort on this line can be termed as half hearted because once they come out from the jungle it is natural that society doesn’t consider them as its part which creates severe problems for earning livelihood. Through the SRP they will get a chance to mingle with society, once they prove they have shunned their old ways the societal acceptance will follow automatically,” he added.
SUWAAP Secretary Kento Ori disclosed the extreme sufferings of the surrendered youths in an half-an-hour meet with the Chief Minster.
“The Chief Minister gave a patient hearing and assured to implement the surrender and rehabilitation policy on priority basis,” an excited Ori disclosed, who has been running from pillar to post since last four years for the implementation of the SRP.
An emotional Ori recalling his previous efforts to meet the governments head said, “All our previous endeavor failed but this is for the first time that our plight has been heard directly by the Chief Minister, thanks to PPA Chairman and PPA Secretary as they extended their support after listening to the turmoil surrendered youths is subjected to.
He also went on to disclose the current status of the surrendered youths. He said, “some former militants has quite life, some has relocated to the old profession, some are contemplating to go back and the remaining has sought refuge in drugs, alcohol and petty crimes.
“We will soon prepare and submit the report as ordered by our honorable chief minister that will help in preparing SRP,” Ori concluded.
It is worth mentioning here that Arunachal Pradesh is the only North Eastern state which despite three of its districts being declared as ‘disturbed area’ and languishing under Armed Force Special Power Act doesn’t have surrender and rehabilitation policy to ascertain the surrendered youths a dignified start for their second innings.
SFS College conferred best NSS unit
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: Rajiv Gandhi University Vice Chancellor, Tamo Mibang presented the best National Social Service (NSS) Unit award conferred by the GoAP to SFS College amidst the presence of Governor JP Rajkhowa, during a function held at Itanagar to mark the XVI Conference of Higher and Technical Education on Mar 23 last.
It is the most prestigious award which the state government gives annually during its annual education conference.
The College’s Vice Principal Sr. Belsy Jose and NSS unit programme officer, Reyom Ete received the award. The SFS College was one of the first colleges in the state to publish NSS news letter highlighting the various activities organised by its NSS unit of the college. (DIPRO)
Capital Police busts bike lifter gang
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: A gang of bike lifters active in the Capital Complex has been busted and arrested by the Capital Police.
Capital SP Devendra Arya informed that with the arrest of Aftab Shiekh, Sahil Khan, Gollo Tajik and Lishi Niya, Naharlagun Police team headed by SI S.S Jha under the supervision of Insp. C.Longri and SDPO Naharlagun, Jummar Basar have not only recovered the stolen bikes but have also to a certain extent curbed the menace of bike lifting that has plagued the city.
Earlier, a case was registered on March 12 vide 54/16 u/s 379 IPC on receipt of an FIR from a student from E-Sector, Naharlagun.
City Police under the supervision of the SP Devender Arya and SDPO Naharlagun J Basar have been seriously pursuing the case and consequently a breakthrough was achieved when the stolen bike was recovered from Naharlagun leading to the arrest of Gollo Taji and Lishi Niya, both of them allegedly involved in selling of stolen bikes.
Consequently after interrogation of the arrested accused, the bike lifters Aftab Sheikh and Sahil Khan were arrested following an operation by Naharlagun Police at Doimukh.
Till now a total of six motorcycles have been recovered from different places from the state ranging from Yazali, Yachuli, Doimukh and Naharlagun. More arrests and recovery are expected soon, added the release.
Besides, with the arrest of Aftab Sheikh, WPS Case No.10/16 u/s 341/376/392/ 34 IPC also was solved, stated the release. Aftab Sheikh was avoiding arrest and was on run.
Sensitization on project implementation
JAIRAMPUR, Mar 29: A joint session on sensitization of project implementation under “My village my development plan” was held at the ADC’s conference hall here on Tuesday. The joint session which was presided by Gram Panchayat Chairperson K Tangkhu dealt with the nitty-gritty of the sanctioned project for various villages under Nampong, Jairampur, Manmao and Rima Putok Circles of Changlang district.
Member Secretary ADC Kento Riba disclosing the details of sanctioned projects cautioned that every penny of the fund will be accounted so the respective GP should implement the fund judiciously. He also informed about various projects that has been proposed for next five years.
Stating about his role, the ADC said, “We can only guide from a distance, the responsibility has to be shouldered by the respective GPC.”
He also said that success of the allotted projects entirely depends on the GPC. Make use of the opportunity so that we can set an example for others to follow, he said.
ZPM Tusam Longri appreciated the diligence shown by the ADC in preparing the project in a very short time. He also asked the GP not to be disheartened by meager funds and asked them to implement it properly in whatever project that has been allotted to them.
Anchal Samity Chairperson Nobinkam Tikhak clarified the doubts by reveling how the project cost was estimated. He also said that we tried to justify by giving all the GP at least one project as it is not possible to give each one a project. He asked everyone not to flow with the misinformation regarding the fund amounts “we have kept everything transparent and anyone with doubt can come and check for themselves, he said.
It must be mentioned that all the four gram panchayat chairpersons are women folks. They were encouraged to speak and they took the opportunity as challenge and spoke well despite it being their first public speech.
DC stresses need to revitalize activities of ASHAs and Block Data Managers
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: Anjaw DC, Mamata Riba has urged the District Medical Officer for revitalising the activities of ASHAs and Block Data Managers and placing preliminary findings of the District Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee (DLVMC) Chairman and the Committee soon so that detailed discussion can be taken up.
She was addressing a meeting of the Preliminary District Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee of the district’s medical department which was held at Anjaw on Mar 28. The DC also highlighted the importance of correct data recording and reporting.
ZPC H Tawsik, who also attended the meeting highlighted the difference between higher registration of pregnant ladies for ANC care vis a vis lower no of institutional deliveries observed in the district and called upon the medical department to increase its IEC and outreach activities.
DMO, Dr. Tayi Taloh said that lack of connectivity was an impediment towards data entry while, shortage of medical personnel was another impediment in proper implementation of programmes.
The meeting was attended by Nodal Officer-cum-DRCHO, Dr. L Moyong, Deputy Director ICDS and DRDA Project Director.
Earlier, on Mar 26 the first Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting of KVK, Anjaw was convened which was attended by the DC and Hayuliang ADC, B Towsik.
While lauding the efforts of Anjaw KVK unit of the ICAR established in 2015 in achieving tremendous outreach and distribution of benefits to the farmers, the DC further urged the ICAR for facilitating designing of a processor for grinding dried maize corns which would benefit the people of the state.
Hayuliang ADC, B Towsik also emphasised on the need to preserve traditional knowledge of farmers and assured all possible help and support to KVK.
Joint Director ICAR-RC for NEH Region, Dr. Bhagwati provided his expert guidance to the SAC session and advised farmers to regularly check viral diseases of cash crops like cardamom.
Apart from farmers the meeting was attended by District Agriculture Officer Pertin, District Horticulture Officer, T Richo, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Officer, N Nyodo and DRDA PD, M Dirchi.
Workshop on handloom and jewellery
Women urged to take up economic activities for self-sustenance
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: A week-long workshop on handloom and jewellery for women was organised by Arunachal Pradesh Society for Education and Development (APSED) in partnership with NEZCC, Dimapur, Union Ministry of Culture, at Bameng, East Kameng district from March 20.
Highlighting the aims and objective of the workshop APSED president Vijay Sonam said that it is a step towards empowerment of women initiated by the Ministry of Culture, Govt of India through the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC).
He said that in the North East, particularly Arunachal Pradesh, a family depends largely on the women. She is the one, who manages the entire household but the economy of the family is controlled by the husband or the father because of which the women are unable to raise to the desired status.
Sonam called upon womenfolk of Arunachal Pradesh to take up economic activities so that they have a control over their earnings. He appealed them to practice handloom to produce ‘galey’, ‘eri chaddar’ and designing of traditional jewellery to sell it in the market.
During his inaugural address earlier, Sonam said that handloom and jewellery has been part of our tradition and culture but these art forms are dying slowly. Now, every person buys ready-made items from the market. One can save lot of money and also earn handsomely, if each family produces handloom clothing and decorate and design nicely the artificial jewellery (Tassang) available in the market. Such practice will help in preservation of the dying art form of our community, he said.
Roko Okey, Asst. Director (Textile and handicraft), East Kameng, who attended the valedictory function, applauded the APSED headed by Vijay Sonam for venturing into the border block to organise the workshop. The workshop is another living example of his commitment and dedication towards societal changes.
He urged the participants to make best use of the lessons that they have learnt. He also told the gatherings about various programmes of the Department of Textile & Handicraft. Training is important and the certificates that the participants received is precious which will help them in days to come. He assured to help the participants in all possible manners.
Later, he distributed certificates and honorarium to the participants and trainers.
While addressing the participants in the inaugural session, Tani Liyak, president of Bameng Town People’s Forum urged the participants to take advantage of the workshop saying that handloom and traditional jewellery is intricately related to our tradition and culture.
The womenfolk of Bameng should learn from the resource persons to follow their footsteps. He also said that organising a programme in Bameng is not an easy task because of its remoteness and lack of infrastructural facilities. He appealed to the participants to be attentive and sincere and to take ahead handloom and traditional jewellery making not only as a business but as a part of preservation of tradition and culture.
Yako Pao, resource person of the workshop explained in details about the importance of handloom, its economic benefit and how one can carry it forward as a business.
Lakan Nampe, another resource person for jewellery, also spoke on traditional jewellery which has become booming an industry. She told that even the artificial ornaments can be beautifully designed which can be sold in the market at a good price.
Besides training on handloom and jewellery, the APSED also arranged training on Loin Loom simultaneously. At the end of the programme, the Loin loom was donated by APSED to the participants for furtherance of their skills.
Governor congratulates national awardee, designer
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: Governor of Arunachal Pradesh JP Rajkhowa has congratulated the former army man and progressive farmer of Ziro Valley in Lower Subansari district Tilling Tadi for being awarded the “ICAR-IARI innovative farmers award.”
Conveying his appreciation to the 65-year-old farmer, the Governor hoped the award will encourage the younger generation and the fellow farmers to adopt modern techniques of integrated farming such as rice-fish farming.
The Governor also congratulated Arunachalee designer Nixon Bui, who presented his collection ‘Urban Tribal’ at Copenhagen, Denmark.
His label NIXONBUI is a ready-to-wear menswear brand funded in 2014, based in Copenhagen. The collection comprises of T-Shirt, sweatshirt, hoodies, pants and caps and also pieces inspired from tribal lifestyle of the northeast region.
In his congratulatory message, the Governor said that the young tribal designer from the State is making the state proud through his matchless creations. He wished him all success in his future endeavors.
Nixon blends the ancient tribal and the minimal Scandinavian, the old and new. The essence of the brand can be described as an urban expression of tribal energy, implementing the tribal philosophy into modern world.
ABA Relief and Rehabilitation Centre - Hope for the Hopeless
[ Nending Ommo ]
On Tuesday afternoon I got goose bumps all over my body and I my eyes got moist while visiting the Relief and Rehabilitation Centre run by Apatani Baptist Association (ABA) for physically challenged, poor, orphans and destitute. It made me believe that humanity is not dead, God has put burden in some of His servants to serve humanity.
The workers of ABA are enthusiastically practicing in letter and spirit the James 1:27 from the Bible ---“Religion that God accepts as pure and faultless is to look after orphans and widows in their distress…”.
As I went down through slushy stairs to R&RC, I saw an old man originally from Nepal in his last stage of stomach cancer was taken care of by ABA workers -- Rev. Tage Donyi, Takhe Yallu, Dulley Kaku and others. The patient in his late 60’s, whom the doctors gave up, even does not remember much about himself. From his ILP, he was identified as Sureshta Pradhan, son of D B Pradhan. Pradhan was found homeless by Yallu two years back and he has been staying in a small hut built for him in the R&RC for almost two years.
Takhe Yalu, is a trained artisan who devoted her life to the service of Lord. She has the burden for the orphans, widows, differently-abled people, sick, homeless and needy people. Almost 100 trainees have graduated under her guidance in tailoring and weaving and many of them are self-reliant now. Yallu has been relentlessly taking care of Relief and Rehabilitation Centre since 2014. Presently there are six inmates in the R&RC.
As Pradhan was in his late sixties, his health began deteriorating day by day. With no one to attend him, ABA took the burden to care for him. He had to undergo medical checkup. A huge amount of finance was required for his treatment as he was seriously ill. ABA with eleven churches under its ambit is a small association which couldn’t afford to bear all the expenses. Helps were sought all around and by God’s grace Yumlam Tana, DDSE Ziro and his wife contributed some money for his treatment.Unfortunately Pradhan was diagnosed with last stage of stomach cancer.
Now Pradhan is kept at R&RC, not in his hut and constantly being taken care of by Rev. Donyi, Yallu, Kaku and others. The believers under ABA from various churches pay visit, pray for him and feed him every day. Many visitors find Pradhan fortunate and opine that he must have done something good in his early days. Therefore, despite having no relatives and friends here; he is so much loved and cared by the members of ABA.
Apart from Pradhan there are five other inmates in R&RC of ABA. Recently another lady inmate named Nayung, a blind by birth also underwent medical treatment. Apart from heavy financial involvement, more than 10 units of blood were required as there was constant internal bleeding due to rapture of blood vessel. She was attended and treated by the members and workers of ABA. The rest of the inmates are differently-abled and mentally challenged since their birth and are being cared of at ABA R&RC.
The Apatani Baptist Association is serving humanity, regardless of caste, religious, creed and race through R&RC since 12th April 2014 which was inaugurated by Hage Kobing, Zilla Chairperson, Lower Subansiri.
There are many such renowned centres and homes where many people visit but this ABA R&RC stands out as the workers and volunteers are selfless, self-sacrificing. This Centre is hardly known and seldom visited. ABA believes that they serve Jesus by serving the needy through R&RC.
Recently two more homeless, mentally challenged orphans who need love and care have been identified by Rev. Donyi, Executive Secretary of ABA. (Rev. Donyi was recently conferred by New Delhi based International Publishing House, as Best Citizens of India. Donyi is a social worker, a Christian Priest who has worked for two years with HIV infected children and also has donated one of his kidneys to CMC Vellore).
But ABA is incapable of supporting more inmates. ABA is praying for sponsors and voluntary contributors to support more needy people.
The whole purpose of this piece was to appeal all individuals, governmental or non-governmental organizations, associations and unions to ‘also’ pay visit and support to ABA R&RC at Abulyang, SSB Gate, Hapoli as it is serving the needy selflessly and make other believe that humanity is not dead yet. (The writer is an Assistant Professor at Government College Yachuli. He can be reached at ommondg@gmail.com. Rev. Donyi can be reached at 961579441).
Rescued child handed over to parents
ZIRO, Mar 29: The Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Lower Subansiri District on Monday handed over Sislya Inwar, who was rescued from a house in Yachuli on March 19 and temporarily lodged in ‘Mothers Home’ Ziro, to her parents, informed CWC chairperson Advocate Pura Dollo.
CWC members headed by its chairperson Pura Dollo visited Mothers Home and counselled the victim and found her fit to be released from the Children Home.
She was handed over to her father Patros Inwar of Janu village of Lakhimpur, Assam.
Governor announces ex-gratia for Payum fire victims
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: Governor of Arunachal Pradesh JP Rajkhowa has sanctioned ex-gratia of Rs.50,000 each to the families of Payum fire victims from his Relief Fund for their rehabilitation.
This was in addition to Chief Mnister’s grant of around Rs. One Lakh per household..
The Governor directed to place the amount at the disposal of the Siang Deputy Commissioner for immediate distribution. Rajkhowa further directed the DC to order a magisterial inquiry into the devastating fire, which devasted 42 houses in the intervening night of March 26 and 27. PRO to Raj Bhawan
Directive to multiple arm license holders
KHONSA, Mar 29: Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha in a recent official order asked all the multiple arms license holders to club their licenses and directed them to submit the applications in the prescribed format along with the original licenses for clubbing and uploading on the NDAL on or before March 31, 2016.
There are still 45 multiple license holders in the district, who have not clubbed their licenses together. DIPRO
Music instruments donated to DPM School
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: First Lady of the State Rita Rajkhowa also Chairman of Muskhan Welfare Society along with Secretary Muskan Welfare Society Kobby Jirdo Bagra donated musical instruments including 1 guitar, mandolin, keyboard and violin each to Donyi Polo Mission School for the Hearing and Visually impaired.
While attending the small dance and music programme organised by the student, the first lady said music makes people very happy therefore, she advised the students to learn music and art along with in their studies. Earlier, Secretary of Muskan Welfare Society, Kobby Jirdo Bagra termed the Donyi Polo Mission School for Hearing and Visually Impaired the only genuine institution where the differently abled students can peruse their talents. She promised the Muskan Welfare Society’s helping hands in future also. PRO to Raj Bhawan
AIDS and drugs awareness prog
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: The NSS Wing of JNC, Pasighat organised an awareness talks on AIDS and drug abuse in collaboration with Arunachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (APSACS), Naharlagun in the college on Tuesday.
Dr.Runi Tasung and Dr.Basumoti Apum, SMOs of General Hospital, Pasighat delivered the talk on the topics which was responded and attended by a huge number of students and the staff as well.
Speaking earlier, Dr.Tayek Talom, Principal, JNC showed satisfaction with the organising team to come out with such important talks that have real social connect and concerns.
Dr. SD Choudhury, Vice Principal urged the students to take lessons from the talks to avoid the disease.
Farmers provided basic amenities and yak breeding bulls
DIRANG, Mar 29: Farmers were provided yak breeding bulls and educated on the benefits of adopting scientific ways of livestock rearing during an ICAR-National Research Centre on Yak, Dirang conducted three different training programmes under Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) for the farming communities of West Kameng and Tawang districts on Mar 28.
At Nyukmadung, progressive farmers of three villages of Dirang circle were provided three yak breeding bulls by Scientist-cum-programme coordinator Dr. SS Hanah and Senior Scientist of ICAR-NRC on Yak, Dr. Vijay Paul.
In another programme organised the same day for the farmers to motivate them to take up livestock farming for their livelihood support. In all, 200 farmers of different villages of West Kameng participated in the programme. They were educated on the benefits of adopting scientific ways of livestock rearing. The participants were imparted training on preparation of concentrated feed from the raw feed ingredients like maize grain, deoiled cakes, salt and mineral mixture and educated on basics of livestock healthcare.
During the programme, each participant was also provided with concentrated feed, common salt, tarpaulin, mineral mixture, calcium preparation and veterinary medicines.
In-service teachers training held
AALO, Mar 29: A week-long training for in-service teachers on subjects like Social Science and English was held in two phases at DRC/DIET, Kamki here from Mar 21 to 27 last.
Inaugurating the first phase of the training on constructivist (5-E Model) for teaching of Social Science at Elementary Level, West Siang DDSE-cum-Ex-Officio Principal, Tumto Lollen suggested the trainees to imbibe new knowledge, techniques and innovative ideas for constructive teaching process.
DIET, Kamki Lecturers U Rai, RN Yadev, TN Prasad and SK Pandey conducted the training sessions.
The second phase of three days training on development of communication skill of the students in English at Elementary was inaugurated by DPGC Kamki, Department of English Associate Professor, Dr. Anil Kumar who stressed on the need to impart education to the students and developing communications skills. (DIPRO)
CBNAAT Machine at District Tuberculosis Centre
TEZU, Mar 29: MLA of Tezu-Sunpura Dr. Mohesh Chai inaugurated Cartridge Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (CBNAAT) Machine at District Tuberculosis Centre (DTC) Tezu on Tuesday in presence of Deputy Commissioner Tamiyo Tatak, District Medical Officer and other Medical representatives.
Dr. Mohesh addressing the gathering of medical officers and staff spoke about Tuberculosis and said that the health officials should work in dedication and sincerity to eliminate tuberculosis from the district.
He said that the CBNAAT machine installed at DTC is a benchmark for the district to combat TB in the district. It will be beneficial for early detection and management of Multi Drug Resistant TB and will be crucial to provide right treatment and medication.
Deputy Commissioner Tamiyo Tatak advised the health officials to handle the machine with utmost care for its longevity for the benefit of TB patients in the district and nearby areas.
DMO Dr. S. Chai Pul also spoke on the usefulness of CBNAAT for diagnosis of Multi Drug Resistance Tuberculosis at Tezu.
The machine was funded by the Central Government.
The CBNAAT is a revolutionary rapid molecular test which detects Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Rifampicin drug resistance, simultaneously. The test is computerized and gives results in 2 hours. The test will be provided free of cost to all the suspected TB patients. DIPRO
Ayush awareness camp cum free health camp
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: A free health camp cum awareness programme on AYUSH system of medicines was organized by Arunachal Pradesh AYUSH Society under the aegis of National Ayush Mission at Hayuliang, Anjaw on Monday.
Dr.Teli Hotu, Nodal Officer, AYUSH NHM cum CCH member, briefed about the sole motive of National Ayush Mission and also encouraged all the participants to take full benefits of AYUSH system of medicine which stands for Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha & Homeopathy.
“AYUSH medicines are effective, affordable with no side effects and solutions to many diseases from its roots,” Dr. Teli said. He also encouraged the participants to practice Yoga regularly and live a stress free and healthy life.
Dr. KK Singh, SMO, CHC Hayuliang also spoke on importance of cleanliness for the prevention of diseases.
The health camp was attended, among others, by Dr. Nani Obing, MO, DH Anini, Dr. JK Roy, MO, State Tomo Riba Hospital, Naharlagun, Dr. Manas Kalita, MO, CHC Yatong and Anjaw ADC Bodelum Towsik, ZPM Bakamso Kri.
More than 400 patients attended the camp. Homeopathy and Ayurvedic medicines were also distributed to them free of cost.
NSO demands proper boarding facilities in schools
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: The Nyishi Students’ Organization (NSO) has demanded proper boarding system in all the schools of Nyishi inhabited areas.
In its memorandum submitted to the chief minister, it said that the basic character of the government established schools in the entire Nyishi belt have changed in the course of time and that the students are now compelled to stay out.
Moreover, every facility provided by the state government in earlier times and latest provisions under Right to Education (RTE) Act by GoI are not being provided to the students. Right from primary to higher secondary schools, especially primary and middle schools are to be fully covered under RTE Act, but unfortunately no such provision has been implemented by the state government, it said in its memo partially blaming the school management committees of interfering in the internal affairs of the boarders.
Financial counseling camp held
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: More than 50 members of various SHG, famers’ club and general public participated in a two day financial counseling camp (FLCC) held at Lekhi village and Papu Nalah on March 28 and 29 last. The programme was organized by Apex bank in collaboration with North East Multipurpose Development Society (NEMDS) and sponsored by NABARD.
In the camp, resource persons from Apex bank and NEMDS highlighted various schemes such as PMJDY, PMSBY, PMJJBY, APY and encouraged the participants to avail the schemes.
Organizations seek compensation payment and start of TAH work
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: All Upper Subansiri District Contractors’ Welfare Association (AUSDCWA) has called for reconsidering the decision for reassessing the trans-Arunachal highway conpensation from Bopi to Tai.
In its memorandum to the chief minister, the association further requested for early disbursement of the land compensation saying that 90 percent of the inhabitants of Upper Subansiri district are ready to cooperate with the government for the project.
Echoing similar concern, All Tagin Youth Organization has given 10 days ultimatum to the state government and has warned of launching democratic movement if the demand is not fulfilled.
Its demands are early disbursement of compensation money, handing over of acquired ROW to the constructing agency and to start the work.
The All Maro Baririjo Area Students’ Union has sought immediate release of compensation of trans-Arunachal highway work from Tabarijo to Tai and immediate start of the work thereof.
The union in its representation to chief engineer (North Zone), Highway, has further warned taking up democratic movement if the demands are not fulfilled.
Forum alleges deptt. of not adhering to recruitment rules
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: Alleging the state department of Elementary Education of not adhering to the prescribed rules while recruiting candidates for the post of TGT &PRT against advt. No.EED/ 342/APT/2013 dated Oct 19, 2015, the Arunachal Pradesh Teachers’ Aspirant Forum (APTAF) has in a letter to the state Education Minister today, appealed to him to initiate stern action against the erring officials.
The Forum claimed that the said department did not follow norms and listed out a total no. of 166 waiting candidates as against 56 advertised post while, a total no. of 48 candidates have been appointed from the wait listed candidates.
It also alleged that the department did not conduct written examination, which clearly reflects pick and choose policy. As per Education Act 2010 there shall be written exam conducted for the post of PRT by the Department, it added and further threatened to resort to democratic action in case its demands are not met.
Piggery units and CGI sheets distributed under MLALAD
DADAM, Mar 29: A total of 40 units of Piggery and 40 CGI sheets were distributed each to 20 beneficiaries under MLALAD 2015-2016 of Khonsa West MLA Tirong Aboh at Dadam, Tirap.
The MLA assured to cover the uncovered villages in the next financial year and urged the beneficiaries to utilize the schemes gainfully. He further cautioned the villagers from selling the CGI sheets as practiced earlier.
People from the economically marginal level, women’s group and widows were covered under the MLALAD distribution. The scheme will not only sustain the livelihood of the villagers but will also help them augment their source of income.
The items were distributed by Chakat Aboh on behalf of MLA Tirong Aboh in presence of CO, Dadam Asan Kri, JE (RE) A.K. Tiwari, ASM Chariperson Dadam Block, Heydam Kamhua and Dadam ASM, Chamo Hakhun. DIPRO
NPR drive underway at Seppa
SEPPA, Mar 29: The National Population Register enrollment for Aadhar Card is underway at Govt Middle School, Type-II, Seppa.
DC Deepak Shinde visited the registration venue and directed the DSO (Statistics) to open more rooms to facilitate and do away with crowding during the enrollments.
DSO (Statistics) CA Loffa informed that the drive shall continue till March 31 and is expected to register maximum number of people of East Kameng, while the normal exercise will continue till cent percent enrollment. DIPRO
NERP in Lower Dibang Valley
ROING, Mar 29: The district consultative committee meeting was held on Tuesday in the DC office chamber Roing for the National Electoral Rolls Purification (NERP) activities 2016 and rationalization of polling station.
Informing the members on the National Electoral Rolls Purification, 2016, Lower Dibang Valley, DC cum DEO, Ravi Dhawan added that the drive has already started from March 1 and will continue till June 15, as directed by the Election Commission of India.
Dhawan requested all the members to submit if any proposal for new creation/modification of polling station on the basis of BMF to the concerned EROs/AEROs for onward submission of the same to CEO, Itanagar.
Responding to a public appeal, the DEO assured the political leaders that action shall be planned and implemented as per guidelines of ECI. He also requested all the public and panchayat leaders to co-operate with the concerned EROs/AEROs and Booth Level Officers of their jurisdiction in successful conduct of NERP.
Further, CO (ELN) Mary Nanom Taloh informed that all the left out electors, double EPIC holders and other duplicity will be rectified in the NERP 2016 drive.
Meanwhile, the review meeting on panchayat development plan was held at the DC’s chamber on Monday. The meeting was attended by all ZPM, ASM, Panchayat members and all Head of Departments of Lower Dibang Valley District.
DC Ravi Dhawan called on the panchayat members for proper utilization of funds allotted to their respective jurisdiction. He also emphasized on construction of durable assets and suggested them to focus on public utility like Ring Well, Rain Water Harvesting, Solar light provision at feasible areas. DIPRO
National Urban Livelihoods Mission launched
JAIRAMPUR, Mar 29: The National Urban Livelihoods Mission (Employment through skills training and placement) was launched here on Tuesday at IB Conference Hall by ADC Kento Riba and DUDA Deputy Director George Joseph.
ESTP Component of NULM (National Urban Livelihood Mission) is for the urban poor, where the main objective is to provide skill base training to the beneficiaries for the better employment opportunity.
ADC K Riba said such skill project is beneficial as well as incredible step for the development of the region. He also encouraged the participants and advised them to utilize the opportunity.
DUDA Deputy Director George Joseph described the key benefit of the scheme and pointed out that the schemes open the doors of opportunities for the school dropouts.
Representative of Indus group and resource person Chandan Prasad through power point presentation explained all the important points relating to the training. He also assured to provide quality training to the beneficiaries. He also informed that three resource persons hailing from Assam will impart the training.
The coordinating agency of the scheme is DUDA Jairampur and Indus Edutrain Pvt Ltd, Banglore is the training partner.
Consumer awareness programme held
[ From Yachang Tacho ]
ZIRO, Mar 29: A day-long Consumer Awareness cum exhibition of consumer products was organized at Abotani Hall here on Tuesday by the department of Legal Metrology & Consumer Affairs, Lower Subansiri district, Ziro.
Attending the programme, Addl. Deputy Commissioner Nending Chatung while appreciating the department for organizing the programme, suggested for conducting such awareness programme during celebration of important occasions like Republic Day, Independent Day, Dree, Nyokum etc when public gathers is huge.
He further suggested participants to get maximum benefit from the campaign particularly from demonstration of products which will go a long way and help one in shopping day to day requirements.
Earlier, H H Atung, district consumer protection officer cum Assistant Controller, LM&CA while briefing the meaning of consumer suggested the trading community not to isolate themselves from consumer movement as all of us are consumer in one way or other. He appealed them for their support for successful implantation of consumer laws in the district.
While briefing objectives of the programme, Debia Tana, Inspector LM&CA explained consumer rights and duties as well as functioning of the department through power point presentation. He also suggested consumers to come forward and lodge complaint to consumer court, Lower Subansiri District Forum, if any one feels aggrieved in purchasing goods and services.
All Arunachal Pradesh Consumer Association district unit President Koj Tassang while participating the programme, said that the Association that working for last few years towards cause of consumer welcomes complaint if any from the consumer. The Association will extend all possible help to aggrieved consumer in getting redressal, he added.
He also appealed district administration for displaying rates of essential commodities at prominent places in market area so that no consumer is cheated, he added.
Handbook on scientific tea cultivation released
ITANAGAR, Mar 29: Minister for Trade and Commerce Kamlung Mossang has released a handbook on scientific tea cultivation in Arunachal Pradesh in his office chamber here on Tuesday in presence of officers and officials of Trade and Commerce Department, Tea Research Association’s Arunachal Advisory Centre (AAC), Tea Board Regional Office, Itanagar, Tocklai Tea Research Institute (TTRI).
The Handbook on Tea Cultivation is designed in simple language giving specific emphasis on the climatic and topographic condition of the Arunachal Pradesh. The book is loaded with all technical requirements of tea field management both through organic and inorganic methodology of tea cultivation, informed Director of Trade and Commerce Tokong Pertin.
The handbook is compiled and edited by Dr. SK Pathak, Deputy Director, Toocklai Tea Research Institute (TTRI), Tea Research Association (TRA), and Biswajyoti Bordoloi, Junior Advisory Officer, Tea Research Association’s Arunachal Advisory Centre (AAC), and published by the Department of Trade & Commerce keeping in view the growing demands of the progressive farmers of the State after implementation of the Mission Mode Project on Tea Plantation in the State.
Mossang lauded the Departmental Officers and TRA for bringing out the important booklets for the tea growers of the State which will be very much helpful not only for the tea growers of the State in managing their fields by adopting proper scientific methods for individual economic development but also strengthening the State’s economy through their effort.
Editorial
Sad time for Indian democracy
The new twist in the Uttarakhand crisis has given ammunition to the Congress party to launch blistering attack on BJP and central government. Uttarakhand High Court on Tuesday ordered a floor test to prove majority by former Chief Minister Harish Rawat on 31st of this month. Giving a new turn to the political events in the state, the court said that nine Congress rebel legislator will also participate in the trial of strength. It may be recalled that the Centre had imposed the President’s Rule on March 27, a day ahead of the date fixed for the floor test. The Uttarakhand crisis has many similarities with the political crisis that Arunachal recently witnessed.
The centre has already conveyed that it is going to challenge the order of Uttarakhand
High Court. In the coming month, the intense court battle is expected over Uttarakhand
political crisis. The Supreme Court appointed five-
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Readers’ Forum
Most vital yet most neglected department
Dear Editor,
When proper economic & statistic studies & applications is the foremost basis of
a planned economy, depriving the department, which meets the very requirement, of
its due importance is highly questionable. The ultimate victim of the said gross
negligence is the Department of Economics & Statistics, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh.
The situation is such that the Department has, yet again, hopelessly failed to find
itself in the list of department-
The personnel engaged in manning the department are apprehensive that if the situation continues, the work & activities of department might come to standstill. The plight of the Directorate Economics & Statistics, for instance, is such that it finds it hard even to buy a printer toner for its District Domestic Income Estimation Section.
Its’ a sorry story that the partial treatment of the State Govt to its’ Department of Economics & Statistics has become chronic. There has been no post creation in the Department for last 3 decades. Its employees, right from District Statistics Officers/Research Officer to Field Investigator have been suffering, altogether, from pay anomalies since 3rd CPC. In this regard, the department had approached the State Govt. many a times for rectification of the long pending pay anomalies, yet in vain.
The Department of Economics & Statistics, Government of Arunachal Pradesh shares the State as well as Centre’s responsibilities in execution of works with multifarious Nature and Scope. In spite of its commendable contribution in terms of vital basis for effective and sustainable planning and program, the apathy of the Govt. towards the department would be very detrimental to its effective existence.
If at all the department is not so important, and is dispensable in the sight of the government, and the employees concerned may be absorbed or adjusted in some other departments.
Yours,
Marli Ingo
General Secretary
APESPWA
Historians need to be objective
Dear Editor,
It is important to suggest that if Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first illustrious
PM of Indian Republic is credited for his grandeur role with respect Non-
former USSR.
I wonder what did the useless NAM platform provided India in spite of high decibel drum beating when the ex PM failed to protect the integrity of the international boundaries of his nation and could not find a single nation standing by India during the crisis. Nehru is solely responsible for his mismanagement of the Kashmir issue, his 'greatest career blunder' and always overriding Sardar Patel’s (India’s first Home Minister) invaluable suggestions for which generations of Indians had to pay very dearly.
I am unable to understand why an individual who miserably failed the nation during
all major crises is always religiously worshipped by so called Indian intellectuals
more than a politician; but rather as a cult figure and a demy God. Several others
like Sardar Patel, Maulana Azad (India’s first Education Minister) having monumental
contributions as architects of this nation do not get their due respect as a result
of this over-
Yours,
Saikat Kumar Basu
Canada
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