wpecfd3a33.png

March 09

wpb96db862.png
wp171ac0c1.png
wp9b1a9b49.png
wp708c905d.png

CM asks legislators to work with

Team Arunachal spirit

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Mar 8: The consensus among the legislators seemingly built to carry forward, "Team Arunachal spirit" and development as top agenda on the third day of Legislative Assembly session on Wednesday.   

Participating in the discussion on motion of thanks on Governor's address in the assembly, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said that 'Team Arunachal' is the 'mantra' for all-round development of the state with cooperation from all the members, irrespective of party affiliations.

Khandu told the Assembly that his government is committed to take the state towards development, maintaining the spirit of 'Team Arunachal'.

"In this fast-changing world, all 60 members of the House need to work with a team spirit to have perceptible development in the state unlike the past," the Chief Minister said.

Highly impressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's slogan "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas", the Chief Minister said that all 60 assembly constituencies in the state would be taken along the path of development and progress.

Appreciating the members' proactive participation in the discussion, Khandu assured that the government will try to incorporate their suggestions in its policies and programmes in days to come.

Informing that transparency, efficiency and accountability would be his government's hallmark, the Chief Minister told the House that he will review the performance of ministers and parliamentary secretaries every six months.

He also reiterated the government's stand to harness the state's untapped resources without disturbing the ecology.

Even as members appreciated the government's move to recruit group B and C posts through Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) as reflected in the Governor's address, Khandu said, "I feel it was a tough decision", adding that in the long run, it will change the people's mindset and help curb corruption.

Expressing his reservations on employees' appointment on officiating/adhoc basis, the Chief Minister said he has already directed the Chief Secretary to ensure conduction of DPC (departmental promotion committee) meeting in every six months.

Khandu also revealed that the Chief Minister's dashboard will be launched soon which will be helpful in maintaining transparency and proper monitoring. Towards promoting work culture by government officials, he told the House that there is provision of 'reward' for the performing employees and 'punishment' for the non-performing ones.

Expressing his discontent on absence of members from the Opposition Bench during the discussion on the motion as pointed by Power (Electrical) Minister Tamiyo Taga, the Chief Minister said that absence of opposition members during such important discussions was very embarrassing one, insisting that "notices" be served to them.  

The House also called in unison for expedition of Green Field Airport at Hollongi and appealed to the Chief Minister to resolve the compensation issue with the centre at the earliest, terming that lack of robust connectivity both on land and air is bogging down Arunachal's growth.

Liromoba MLA Nyamar Karbak, who seconded the motion, appealed to each and every member to ponder upon the Governor's speech wherein he called for 'Team Arunachal' and 'One Arunachal' spirit. "In Arunachal, it seems there is no Arunachalee, each community speaks for themselves," said Karbak, while appealing to every member to promote 'Team Arunachal' spirit.

Ziro MLA Tage Taki suggested that the government revamp the Arts and Culture Department by not limiting them to promote songs and dances, but rather engage them in documentation and perseveration.

Batting for gender equality, Koloriang MLA Pani Taram appealed to the government to create separate child care facilities for women in every government offices and also suggested creating working women hostels in each district headquarter. Taram also asked the government for job reservation of Puroik community, saying that the community has been facing untold miseries and deprivation since time immemorial.

Saying that most of the cultivable land in Arunachal is under reserved forest area, Borduria-Bogapani MLA Wangling Lowangdong asked the government to de-reserve cultivable land. He further appealed to the government to confer Ashok Chakra awardee, late Havildar Hangpan Dada with the Arunachal Ratna Award for his supreme sacrifice to the nation. Participating in the discussion Roing MLA Mutchu Mithi suggested that the government start issuing Land Possession Certificate (LPC) in order to monetize the land.   

 Khonsa MLA Tirong Abo called for district wise job reservation, saying that candidates from Tirap Changland and Longding districts are deprived as appointment is often finalised in Itanagar.

Earlier in the day, responding to the question of Tali MLA Markio Tado on Dummi-Dutte MHP, Power Minister Tamiyo Taga  said ill-conceived project causes cost escalation and  the project site is inaccessible by motor vehicles and 82 kilometers from the nearest road, compelling executing agency to transport the materials through head load and air sorties. The Minister also said that inaccessible of vehicles to project sites caused considerable time overrun. However, he assured to overcome financial issue to ensure project completion by next financial year.  

On being questioned by former CM Nabam Tuki that how much black money was recovered during demonetization period, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said Rs 1069.3 crore have been deposited in various banks. However, he said it is the Income Tax Department which should answer if any amount of black money was recovered.

Meanwhile, Arunachal Pradesh Medical Council (Amendment) Bill 2017, which was introduced by Minister Health and Family Welfare Jomde Kena was passed by voice votes.

 

Quotes of the day

"Arunachal mein koi Arunachalee nai hai" -Nyamar Karbak appealing to the members to promote Team Arunachal spirit

"When the villages are developed, the state of Arunachal will be developed" -Wanglin Lowangdong

"Let Itanagar be the Capital of all tribes" -Lombo Tayeng

"Quality education is more important than quantity education" -Tage Taki

 

 

 

Arunachal Statehood Act amendment not under state’s purview

ITANAGAR, Mar 8: Arunachal Pradesh Land Management Minister Nabam Rebia today told the assembly that the amendment of Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Act, 1986, being a central act, is not under the purview of the state government.

Responding to a question by PPA MLA Nikh Kamin which was raised in the house during question hour, Rebia said the state government would continue to pursue the Centre to amend Article 317 H of Constitution dealing with the state of Arunachal Pradesh to make it at par with Article 371 A dealing with the state of Nagaland and Article 371 G which deals with Mizoram.

It cannot be assured when the amendment of the bill will be materialised or it will be introduced in the Parliament, he said.

In reply to a supplementary from Kamin whether the government would constitute a house committee to pursue the matter, Rebia emphatically said that the assembly has no jurisdiction on the subject.

A private member resolution, moved by Takar Marde in the assembly and passed on September 21, 2013 had said that the Arunachal Pradesh Government would take steps to move the Centre for amending the Constitution in order to provide special provisions for protection and safeguarding the rights of its indigenous tribal population on ownership and transfer of land along the lines of Nagaland and Mizoram. PTI

 

 

 

Arunachal celebrates International Women's Day

ITANAGAR, Mar 8: International Women's Day (IWD) was celebrated across the state to further promote and raise awareness on women's rights and to achieve equal opportunity and status in all walks of life.

"Be bold for change" was the clarion call given to women by Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) to take positive action towards gender parity and equality on International Women's Day celebration at Longding.

Longding Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Gupta applauded APSCW's continued efforts to empower women in the society, and acknowledged the hardworking nature and contribution of women, especially of the Wanchos in the development of the district.

"Wancho women work tirelessly from morning till night. In many cases, they earn livelihood for the family, and that is why Longding is witnessing development," said the Deputy Commissioner.

Discouraging polygamy in the district, he informed that the District Administration will soon start marriage registration and also coordinate with the Chiefs to dissuade people from the practice.

Zilla Parishad Chairperson Phezon Wangsa exhorted the women to raise voice against domestic violence and atrocities. APSCW Chairperson Mitali Tingkhatra explained the role of the Commission and the nature of cases the Commission undertakes. She also assured to extend all possible help to women in need.

The APSCW celebrated the day along with PHED, District Legal Service Authority, All Wancho Women Welfare Society, Longding District celebrated International Women's Day at Longding amidst a huge gathering of participants.

Civil Judge cum JMFC Tirap Dangam Niri informed that the District Legal Services Authority is always available to impart free legal services to all women who cannot afford a legal counsel.

Advocate and member of DLSA Wangtan Wangsu called for abolishing some customary practices, like polygamy to take the society forward.

The women achievers of the district and the state were also felicitated on the occasion.

Monghai Lukham, the first woman graduate from the district, who became CDPO, was felicitated posthumously. Dogum Ado Bagra, a woman activist from Aalo and Haandan SHG of Zedua Village were felicitated by APSCW.

A docu-drama on domestic violence, which was released by the deputy commissioner, was screened in the evening. Short films promoting the idea of Clean India (Swachh Bharat Abhiyan) of PHED were also shown.

Participating in Women's Day celebration at Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), Doimukh, youth icon Anshu Jamsenpa exhorted women to be brave and live a fearless life.

Narrating her mountaineering experience, Jamsenpa, who created history by becoming the first woman in the world to scale Mount Everest twice in just 10 days, quoted, "Fear does not prevent death, it prevents life."

RGU Vice Chancellor Professor Tamo Mibang assured the university's commitment in imbibing right attitude in students through such celebrations.

The Department of Women & Child Development celebrated IWD at Don Bosco Youth Center, Itanagar involving various women organizations, NGOs, Anganwadi workers and helpers of Itanagar Urban ICDS project.

Addressing a huge gathering of women drawn from different walks of life, former APSCW Vice Chairperson Tadar Mepung appealed to the women leaders and activists to awaken the womenfolk of Arunachal Pradesh from the slough of despondency.

Lamenting that most of the women, especially in rural Arunachal, were unaware of their rights and privileges, Mepung emphasized on the need to educate the tribal women on various women-friendly laws that protect their interests.

Mepung informed that Kurung Kumey and East Kameng were the districts with highest child marriage rates in the state. However, the numbers have reduced considerably over the years, she said.

State Joint Secretary Mige Kamki spoke on discrimination and violence against women, child marriage, drug abuse, alcoholism and the role of women in eradicating these social evils.

Representative of Apatani Women Association, Ziro Rubu Tago Rinya said that there was gender discrimination in Apatani society in the past, which has gradually reduced with time.

Assistant Professor of Arunachal Law Academy Nani Mamung highlighted the aims, objectives and provisions of Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act.

Director of WCD Tokmen Pertin Loyi urged the participants to understand their rights and responsibilities in order to make them better persons to serve their families and the society at large efficiently.  

She also gave information about various schemes of the department meant for welfare, development and right of justice to women.

Procession, cultural programmes and screening of documentary films on women related issues marked the day-long celebrations.

All Child Development Project Officers of Papum Pare, officers of the Directorate, Deputy Director (ICDS), members of Women Helpline, One Stop Centre run by Oju Welfare Association, ChildLine of Itanagar unit, Nyishi Nyem Acham, Adi Bane Kebang, Apatani Women Association, Ziro, Anganwadi workers and helpers of Itanagar Urban ICDS project participated in the celebration.

The Confederation of Service Associations of Arunachal Pradesh  (CoSAAP), in collaboration with Arunachal Pradesh Women's Welfare Society  (APWWS) celebrated the International Women's Day at Donyi-Polo Mission Hearing and Visually Impaired School, Chimpu.

About 100 samplings were planted in the compound of the school. President Depti Bengia, General Secretary Dr Amping Perme and many veteran women activists of the APWWS were present in the programme.

CoSAAP Secretary General Gonya Riba, along with CEC members took part in the event.

Later, social service was conducted in Ward No. 2 Chimpu, Itanagar.

The International Women's Day was celebrated across the state by state government employees, in collaboration with women welfare societies.

At Roing, IWD was celebrated involving women SHG members of Lower Dibang Valley at Central Rehko, Cheta (Roing), organized by AMYAA NGO, with support of NHPC Ltd under CSR Initiatives.

On the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Deepak Shinde launched the first ever district level SHG federation in the name "Dibang Women Cooperative Society Ltd" (DWCS Ltd), promoted by AMYAA.

The celebration was marked by colourful performances of Mishmi and Adi traditional dances, folk songs and fashion show by the SHGs. The Eze SHG from Ezengo Village displayed a thematic skit on "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao".  

Secretary AMYAA R K Paul Chawang briefed on the concept behind celebration of the day involving all the SHGs in the district and the purpose for formation of district level SHG federation, while ZPC Sipi Elapra and Roing ICDS Deputy Director Savitri Khamti spoke on the role of women within family and society and historical background of International Women's Day celebration.

At Namsai, Women's Day was celebrated by CoSAAP district unit, in collaboration with Women & Child Development (ICDS), PHED, WWS and Khunta Nau Welfare Society, with the theme "Stop Sexual Harassment at Work Place."

The women took out a procession in the morning in Namsai Town by holding banners and placards reading "Stop sexual discrimination", "Beti Bachao Beti Padhao," "Respect women" and shouting slogans against domestic violence, forced and child marriages, sex determination etc.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner R K Sharma spoke on women empowerment and appealed to the men to change their mindset and give women equal respect and status in the society.

The Khun Ta Nau Welfare Society of Namsai felicitated Nang Mukta Mannow (75) of Lathao village for her social and economic achievement.

At Tawang, the day was celebrated in a befitting manner at CDPO's office, organized by the Department of Women and Child Development, in collaboration with Labour and Employment Office and Women Welfare Association, Tawang.

Besides issues of women empowerment, the celebration here focused on girl child education.

Tawang CDPO Dondup Pema and CO Dani Rikang briefed on the Domestic Violence Act and Child Labour Act respectively.

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Regional Centre, Itanagar, in collaboration with Arunachal Pradesh State Legal Services Authority (APSLSA) organized one day in-house legal awareness programme to mark International Women's Day celebration.

To mark the occasion, spot essay writing competition was conducted on March 7 on the topic "Empowerment of Women in the 21st Century".

Resource persons included APSLSA Member Secretary Budi Habung, Project Coordinator, Departmen of Justice Rosy Taba and Assistant Project Coordinator Nani Modi.

At Hawai, IWD was celebrated by Anjaw District Administration at Community Hall. The celebration coincided with inaugural function of Skill Development & Capacity Building programme under BADP with special emphasis on "Skill Development" for Women weavers of Hawai Township.

At Daporijo, the day was celebrated with various programmes at CDPO office. Highlighting the role of women in development of society, the Deputy Director (ICDS) Jaya Jawal Singh urged women to come forward and participate in any social activities. She also emphasized on women education.

Officials from PHED explained the importance of maintaining high degree of health and sanitation practices and called upon women to take active part in Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

The Arunachal Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee also celebrated International Women's Day which also commemorated the year-long birth centenary celebration of iron lady and former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi at Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan, Itanagar on Wednesday.

Celebrating the day, the Mahila Congress Committee also adopted a three-point resolution requesting the government to declare 8th March as gazetted holiday, 33 percent reservation for women in Lok Sabha and   State Assembly and for share of paternal properties to the girl child.

Speaking on the occasion, former Chief Minister Nabam Tuki called upon women to take part in nation building. He also advised them take up various self-employment activities through NGOs and self-help groups. Tuki also spoke on women reservation in every sector, which was a dream of former Prime Minister, Rajiv Gandhi.

APMCC President Kamala Lingi, APCC president, Padi Richo, Vice President Tadar Yadir, AIMC General Secretary Jarjum Ete and APMC Vice President Yame Tok also spoke on the occasion. The rank and file of all the frontal  wings of the APCC and   APMCC and Mahila Panchayat leaders also   participated in the celebration.

The IWD was also celebrated at Nampong by RK Memorial Society, at Hapoli by Arunachal Pradesh Women Welfare Society, Ziro branch and Indo Global Social Service Society, Ziro, at Papu Nallah by Itanagar Diocesan Empowerment Association at Seijosa by Arunachal Pradesh Women's Welfare Society, Seijosa unit.

The International Women's Day was celebrated in a befitting manner at Rajiv Gandhi Government Polytechnic College (RGGPC) campus. The celebration was organized by the Women Cell of the institute, along with all other staffs and students.

On the occasion, Principal of RGGPC, Dr A K Tripathy said, 'In RGGP College, we have around 45 percent of female staff, which is very encouraging for the institute in particular and for the state in general.

He also highlighted the women's contributions in college and society at length. Later, woman staff and students presented different cultural programmes related to women in present day society. Students also spoke about women in the auspicious occasion.

 

 

 

Swachh Shakti Saptah ends with celebration of IWD

ITANAGAR, Mar 8: Along with the rest of the country, the Swachh Shakti Saptah was celebrated across Arunachal Pradesh right from Tawang to Tirap, which culminated on Wednesday with the celebration of International Women's Day.  

The Swachh Shakti Saptah was organized by the PHE & WS Department, the nodal agency for implementation of Swachh Bharat Mission- Gramin(SBMG), to promote the objective of  the  mission  with  this year's theme of "Be Bold for Change".

In the state capital Itanagar, the event was marked with gala functions organized  by the department, in association with Arunachal Pradesh Women's Welfare Society (APWWS) at Donyi Polo School of Hearing and Visually Impaired, Chimpu, the Arunachal Vivekananda Yuva Shakti and Women Helpline at Vivekananda Hall, R K Mission Hospital complex, and the Women Cell, Dera Natung Government College, Itanagar, wherein various resource persons participated on the theme of women empowerment and gender equality, role of women and their contribution towards hygiene and sanitation.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu and PHE& WD Minister Bamang Felix, conveyed their greetings on International Women's Day and urged all women to promote Swachh Bharat activities in their respective households to achieve the Open Defecation Free (ODF) target within 2019 and for a clean Arunachal.

In Longding, the week-long  activities of Swachh Shakti Saptah concluded  with the celebration of  International Women's  Day  jointly by the PHE Department, the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) and All Wancho Women Welfare Society (AWWWS), in presence of Deputy Commissioner, Himanshu Gupta.

A series of events , including essay and drawing competition, sports activities for girls and women, screening of film on women and swachhata, exposure visit for women sarpanch and mother groups to ODF Gram Panchayat, distribution of dustbins, water container, brooms, soaps, interpersonal communication, women rallies, visit to schools, mass tree plantation, presentation of papers on women and sanitation and cleanliness drives, in collaboration with various NGOs, women organization and social activists were  organized during the  week-long celebration.

Swachh Shakti Saptah was flagged off by Union Minister for Drinking Water & Sanitation, Narendar Singh Tomar on March 1.  

It is worth mentioning here that a delegation of 43 women, including Panchayat leaders, particularly those who are working in the field of Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) from Arunachal Pradesh attended the Swachh Shakti event at Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat, which was addressed by Prime Minister Narendar Modi to honour the grass-root champions of Open Defecation Free society.

The  concluding day of the Swachh Shakti Saptah was also observed at Yupia by the District Administration of Papum Pare district, where Deputy Commissioner Tai Kaye congratulated the gathering of women and girl students, and exhorted them to become role models in the society.

DMO Dr Tasso Kampu encouraged the gathering to avail the facilities, which are there for welfare of women.

 

 

 

BJP dismisses reports of detention

ITANAGAR, Mar 8: The state BJP on Wednesday dismissed reports in the media about Arunachal Pradesh BJP President Tapir Gao being detained at Guwahati airport in connection with carrying huge cash, and termed the report as unfounded and politically motivated.

In a communiqué, the state BJP said that Gao denied travelling with huge cash.

'I was carrying some cash for my personal expenditure with valid documents and officials were satisfied and allowed me to proceed further,' said Gao, who reportedly reached Itanagar the very same day on which the incident supposedly took place.

'President Gao, travelling from Imphal from Guwahati, was neither arrested nor detained for interrogation as reported,' said General Secretary Biu Ram Waghe, while adding, no CISF or Assam Police personnel were present.

Acknowledging that Gao carried his personal cash, Waghe explained, 'Income tax officials at Guwahati had no business since Arunachal Pradesh is a scheduled area and Gao is exempted from any income tax as per the law.'

Sniffing political motive behind spread of such news, Waghe questioned, 'Assam is not an election bound state so why did not Manipur airport officials act rather than tipping Guwahati airport?'

'Rattled by five hard hitting rallies done by Tapir Gao in four days, whatever happened is a handy work of some Congress stooge,' said Waghe in a release, while adding that Gao, who had been in charge of Manipur BJP for 11 years; and during the recent election rallies, had called Manipur Congress Chief Minister Ibobi Singh as "Chief of All Militant Organisations and most corrupted leader".

Earlier on Tuesday, Gao informed this daily that he was intercepted by Police Security Officer and not the Income Tax Department. Gao denied reports of his detention in Guwahati airport but admitted to carrying Rs 4 lakhs in cash.

However, sources said that Gao was allegedly carrying Rs 10 lakhs when he landed in Guwahati airport when he was intercepted.

Gao was returning from Manipur after attending an extensive election campaign for the BJP.

 

 

 

Drug peddlers nabbed, contraband seized

CHANGLANG, Mar 8: The Arunachal Pradesh Police of Changlang on Monday last, nabbed two drug peddlers and seized a total 615 grams of contraband substance in two separate cases at Diyun.

Acting on a tip off, a police team led by Diyun OC, Tomai Wangpan apprehended a drug peddler identified as Purnima Chakma along with 325 grams of heroin while she was on her way to Tinsukia in Assam in a Tata Winger. The police team intercepted the vehicle at Mudoi check gate and seized the contraband substance.

Later in the day, on getting input regarding a huge consignment of drugs being brought in an APST bus plying between Tinsukia and Diyun through a peddler, the police blocked all check posts near Diyun Circuit House and searched the APST bus.

According to the police, one of the lady passengers tried to escape from the spot while the search was being carried out. She was however, nabbed by an alert lady constable. The police recovered 290 grams of brown sugar from her possession. She was later identified as Kalakosu (Mosmi Chakma) from Diyun.

Meanwhile, the police have registered the two separate cases under NDPS Act and investigation is on. (DIPRO)

 

 

 

Kameng Dolo loses state assembly membership

ITANAGAR, Mar 8: Former Deputy Chief Minister and sitting MLA from Pakke-Kessang Constituency in East Kameng district, Kameng Dolo has lost the membership of the State Legislative Assembly following a Gauhati High Court ruling in connection with an election petition filed against him by BJP leader and former Minister Atum Welly.

The Assembly Secretariat in a bulletin on Tuesday last, quoted the High Court verdict: "…consequently and having answered the issues as above, election of the respondent from No.12 Pakke Kessang (ST) Legislative Assembly Constituency in the election held pursuant to General Notification  dated 15.03.2014 is declared void under section 100(1)(d)(iv) of the (Representation of the People) Act."

The notification from the Assembly Secretariat further said that "consequent upon the judgment and order of Gauhati High Court dated 8.2.2017 of the Assembly Constituency No. 12 Pakke-Kessang (reserved for Scheduled Tribe) has fallen vacant with effect from 8th February 2017 and as a consequence, Kameng Dolo has ceased to be a member of the Sixth Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly".

 

 

 

Officials arrive to assess status of petroleum product in Anjaw

HAWAI, Mar 8: A team of officials from of the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas and oil PSUs arrived at Anjaw to assess status of infrastructure and availability of petroleum products in the district.

Accordingly, a meeting was held on Wednesday at the Circuit House conference hall, Hawai, between the visiting team officials and District Administration and stakeholders of petroleum products in Anjaw.

The team of officials of the Ministry was headed by Executive Director, Mehsana Asset (Gujarat) V J Pandya, along with Executive Assistant (ONGC) J Gogoi and S P Choudhury, Manager (IOC).

District Food & Civil Supplies Officer, Hage Tath highlighted the difficulties and hardships faced in the district, due to shortage of petroleum products and allied infrastructures. He also highlighted the non existence of LPG agency in Anjaw and cited that a consumer has to travel over 150km to fulfil their LPG requirements.

He also informed that the absence of MS/HSD petrol depot in the district headquarter, Hawai has added toll to the problems of citizens residing in Hawai, Walong and Kibithoo circles. The mountainous terrain along with heavy monsoon rain in the region and the consequent road blockages creates acute shortage of petroleum products were also posing an issue. EAC B Tawsik stressed that the District Administration would cooperate to their fullest to resolve these recurring problems, if the MoP&NG, with the help of ONGC & IOC could set up some retail outlets in these border areas.

Circle Officer Rome Mele also requested the ONGC, IOC and other PSUs alike to aid these remote areas through their Corporate Social Responsibilities initiatives.

Taking note of the problems presented, Pandya assuaged that all the points would be highlighted in their report to the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas.

 

 

 

Governor reaches out to members of various communities

ITANAGAR, Mar 8:  Arunachal Pradesh Governor, P B Acharya on Tuesday last, met the members of various communities from different parts of the country working in the state at Naharlagun.

Accompanied by his wife Kavita Acharya, besides Secretary to Governor-cum- Secretary Planning & Tourism, Dr Joram Beda, the Governor interacted with people belonging to Sikh, Jain, Marwari, Bengali, Malayali and other communities.

The Governor exhorted them to be partners in the developmental process of the state and advised them to have unity of vision and at the same time help the deprived and disadvantaged members of the society, especially the local communities.

Reminding them of citizen social responsibility, the Governor urged the members of various communities to have tie ups with local government schools, hospitals and orphanages. 'One should adopt any such institution as a community. Sponsor students, particularly girl child from poor families for their studies and a make positive change while strengthening the Prime Minister's goal of 'Shaakshar Bharat Samarth Bharat', the Governor emphasised.

He further called upon each person to create awareness about Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Atal Pension Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and sponsor opening of bank accounts for at least five persons in any one of it. (PRO to Governor)

 

 

 

NEZCC Director calls on CM

ITANAGAR, Mar 8: Newly appointed North East Zonal Cultural Center (NEZCC) Director, Dr Om Prakash Bharti called on Chief Minister Pema Khandu here on Wednesday.

The Chief Minister discussed on Union Ministry of Culture sponsored Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav, the biggest national cultural festival in the country, which is going to be held at Tawang from March 23 to 31 next.

Objective of the annual festival is to popularize and showcase the cultural diversity of India be it arts, artisans, dance, handicrafts or flavours from across the nation. The festival also aims to provide a common platform to the artistes from the region and other zones for a meaningful interaction and to promote the cultural integration amongst the zones.

The NEZCC Director informed that more than 600 artistes are expected to participate in the festival from across the country.

The Chief Minister also discussed with regard to establishment of a regional cultural center of the NEZCC at Itanagar.

Earlier, the Chief Minister released books on North East Cultural Studies and North East India - Ethnicity & Culture, authored by Bharti.

The meeting was attended by Art and Culture Minister, Dr Mohesh Chai, PHED Minister Bamang Felix, Health Minister Jomde Kena and Home Parliamentary Secretary Pani Taram. (PRO to CM)

 

 

 

Review meeting on TAH and other road works held

AALO, Mar 8: A review meeting on Trans-Arunachal Highway (TAH), double lane road from Aalo to Bam and Aalo-Mechuka road being undertaken by the BRTF, TK, JKM and KCL (JV) was held under the chairmanship of West Siang Deputy Commissioner Gamli Padu on Tuesday.

Reviewing progress of all undergoing road work, shifting of utilities and law and problem if any, in connection with the road construction, the DC said that the meeting was called to discuss all issues regarding the progress of works in all roads, across the table.  

Pointing out the series of meetings held earlier in connection with road construction, the DC informed that the road has been handed over to Ministry of Highway on November 13 last and almost all utilities have been shifted. The road work should go smoothly so that commuters do not face any problem, he added.  

When the DC enquired about any problems in road construction, the concessionaire and BRTF disclosed that there were no major issues, barring few local problems that are being settled in their own levels.

Kamba ADC, Superintendent of Police, DFO, EE Power Basar and Aalo Division, representatives from EE PHED, BSNL, DLRSO, AMDO and AE Highway also took part in the deliberation on various issues. (DIPRO)

Functioning of HEP stations and progress of projects reviewed

AALO, Mar 8: A review meeting with officers of Power and Hydropower departments was convened as a follow up action to series of decisions taken up with Commissioner Finance and Power on 21st December 2016, in the office chamber of West Siang Deputy Commissioner on March 7 last.

The DC disclosed that decisions were taken up for starting of Hydro Electrical Projects in Mechuka Subdivision and issue notices to various Power Companies for suspending the works for a long time and full restoration of Sirutali and Liromoba Hydro- Electric Power Station to enhance growing power demands of the district.

He reiterated that all 12 Power companies entrusted to carry out HEP works have suspended the works and none have turned up till date.

Liromoba Hydro- Electric Power Station is yet to be tested on its full generating capacity. The DC insisted on testing the probable generating capacity by providing 1mw to Aalo and 350 kw to Tirbin on test basis by March 15 next.

It was disclosed by the engineers that Liromoba HEP station is generating only 220-330 KW at present against its installed capacity of 2000kw due to transmission network problem as on date. It was also disclosed that two units of Siru Tali HEP station is ready for generation on grid mode, but scattered transmission lines are posing problems.

A Committee to assess the functioning of Hyro Electrical Power stations has also been constituted under the Chairmanship of ADC Yomcha, with AEs from Kamba, Tirbin, Kaying, and AE Hydro Power as Members. The issues like revenue leakages in government institution, Power theft and proper metering in private residences, institutions, government establishments, army, ITBP were also discussed extensively in the meeting. (DIPRO)

 

 

 

Canara Bank felicitates meritorious girl students in Pasighat

[ Mingkeng Osik ]

PASIGHAT, Mar 8: The Canara Bank, Pasighat branch today felicitated six meritorious girl students from different schools in East Siang district under the Canara Vidya Jyothi Scheme - a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.

The Canara Vidhya Jyothi Scheme has been extended for the academic year 2016-17 for implementation by all rural, semi-urban and urban branches. It was decided to extend the benefits to SC/ST meritorious girl students at all branches on 26th January, 2017.

Accordingly, Bengia Anna (class five), Duman Migki (class six), Mitet Ngukir (class seven) and Mibanam Yirang (class eight) from Government Upper Primary School Balwadi received Rs 2500 each, while Olive Borang (class nine) and Aman Komut (class ten) of Dai Ering GHSS received Rs 5000 each as scholarship amount.

Branch Manager K C Hangsing highlighted about the scheme and also motivated the ST/SC students to take their education seriously.

Schools principals Papang Rukbo and P C Ojha, and Assistant General Secretary of AAPSU Thomas Jerang, appreciated the initiative taken by Canara Bank, Pasighat branch for tribal meritorious students.

 

 

 

Exhibition and distribution of utility items to tribal farmers

DIRANG, Mar 8: A daylong exhibition and live demonstration of yak wool products technology, along with distribution of utility items to the tribal farmers was conducted on March 8 at Misopsa of Mandala region of Dirang by the Institute Technology Management Unit of ICAR-NRC on Yak, Dirang.

In the live demonstration programme, Dr P J Das, Sr Scientist and incharge-ITMU, along with Dr J Doley, Scientist of NRC on Yak, described different new wool technologies adopted by ICAR-NRC on Yak.

Dr Das also described how yak hair products have high market demand due to its uniqueness. He also informed the tribal farmers that the Institute Technology Management Unit of ICAR-NRC on Yak is ready to train interested farmers in garment making and value addition of new wool technology.

Dr Doley explained that these technologies are very cost effective as it involves very low initial investment and has high market demands. Farmers were also informed about various technologies used for fabric production, utilizing jute-yak fiber blend for the preparation of different useful items like jackets, curtains, bags, file covers etc. He emphasized that these techniques are eco-friendly, highly durables and have huge market demand. He also persuaded farmers that although, the initial investment is required for the technology, but he has given details of BC ration, which was quite encouraging.

Farmers were also informed the ICAR-NRC on Yak is ready to purchase yak wool from farmer's doorstep and its potentiality to develop new entrepreneurship.

A total of 55 farmers and their families attended the programme. Four farmers, namely Lobsang Nima, Tashi, Lham Murneu and Purpa, who have more than 100 yaks, were given a solar cooker each at the end of the programme.

 

 

 

Contractors dissatisfied with RO MoRTH

ITANAGAR, Mar 8: The All Arunachal Contractors Welfare Association (AACWA) expressed dissatisfaction over the attitude of Regional Officer (RO) Ministry of Road and Transport, Government of India for allegedly rejecting the tenders of documents of contractors of Arunachal Pradesh, and demanding particular work experience of National Highway work projects.

In a press release, the AACWA said that similar nature of work has been constructed by local contractors of the NLCPR, PMGSY, NEC and RIDF projects, and that any kind of road works should be accepted by RO MoRTH for eligibility of bidders.

'Most of the National Highway projects are undertaken by contractors from outside the state due to lack of work experience and local bidders are unable to participate in tenders', the AACWA said.

It highlighted that MoRTH Minister Nitin Gadkari had on several occasions talked about encouraging local contractors, and giving them relaxation in criteria, but it lamented that the RO MoRTH, Arunachal Pradesh is instead harassing local contractors and adopting delaying tactics to curtail the development of Arunachal Pradesh.

Further, the AACWA urged Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju, the state Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, who is also the PWD Minister to initiate immediate shifting of the RO MoRTH office from Guwahati to Itanagar for easy accessibility to contractors.

 

 

 

Mount Carmel English School observes annual day

[ Maksam Tayeng ]

PASIGHAT, Mar 8: Mount Carmel English School, Balek Road, run and managed by the Adi Baptist Union (ABU), observed its Annual cum Parents' Day today, where meritorious and performing students were awarded prizes.

Speaking on the occasion, East Siang DDSE, Jongge Yirang urged the teaching community to be role models for students, and appealed to female teachers to maintain decency in class rooms.

He also confessed that, due to poor performances of government schools people prefer private schools, and hoped that after CCE norms are done away with, government schools will also regain their glory. He also informed that from now on, children up to 6 years of age will be taught by Aganwadi, ICDS Department, which will be attached to schools.

Arunachal Baptist Church Council, Naharlagun, General Secretary Rev Mikim Perme also laid emphasis on moral education, character building with academic excellence.

ABU Pasighat Executive Secretary, John Borang and Opang Taying were also present on the occasion.

 

 

 

KCP cadre apprehended

KOHIMA, Mar 8: The Khonsa Battalion, under the aegis of Dao Division conducted an operation in Kunsa village and apprehended one Self Styled Private of KCP (Manipur based group) Noaba Metei on Tuesday evening.

The Self Styled Private of KCP was apprehended based on specific intelligence about presence of one cadre at Kunsa village trying to infiltrate into Indian Territory from Myanmar.  

During interrogation, he admitted allegiance to the KCP and divulged that he has been with the banned outfit since July 2016 and was undergoing basic training at Langkhaw camp. He further admitted to being forcibly recruited by the banned outfit and the parents of 17-year-old Noaba had filed an FIR at Lamlai, Manipur after he was forcibly taken by the KCP.

After the initial documentation and legal procedures, it is planned to handover Noaba back to his parents so that he can join back the mainstream society. (PIB Defence)

 

 

 

GB passes away at 82

YINGKYONG, Mar 8:  Gaon Burah of Gosang Village under Jengging Circle in Upper Siang District, Tekek Burang passed away at his native village on March 4 last.

Known for his uprightness and deliverance of judgment in several complex cases through local customary courts, Burang was also an expert in Adi oral history.

Late Burang is survived by three sons, four daughters and grandchildren.

 

 

 

Winners of quiz competition announced

ITANAGAR, Mar 8:  Jagru Mama (Class VIII) of Garden Dew Residential School, Itanagar won the first prize, while Jatcha Ajang (Class VIII) and Tanu Das (Class VIII) of Vivekananda Central School secured second and third positions in a quiz competition, recently organized by the Arunachal Pradesh Police, Road Safety Cell, on the occasion of Statehood Day festival.

The winners were awarded cash prizes of Rs 1000, 700 and 500 respectively, along with a commendation certificate each.

 

 

 

Youths visit Agricultural Research Institute

NAMSAI, Mar 8:  In all, 10 selected youths from Chongkham circle visited the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (ARI), New Delhi as part of an interstate exposure tour from February 29 to March 8, sponsored by Parliamentary Secretary for Environment & Forest, Chow Tewa Mein and ATMA, Namsai district.

Under the supervision of Programme Coordinator in-charge, Dr Debasis Sasmal and SMS, Horticulture, Ph Chandramoni Singh, the youths visited IARI campus to gather knowledge on modern technology applied to agriculture.

They also attended the training sessions delivered by IARI scientists to gather scientific cultivation of early and late vegetables, rearing of seed, application of modern tools in agriculture and organic farming etc.

 

 

 

NHPC signs MoU on skill development for youths

ITANAGAR, Mar 8: NHPC Limited, Liaison Office, Itanagar and state Directorate of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, represented by Director, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Subu Tabin inked an MoU for imparting skill development training to 150 local youths in NHPC's office here on Wednesday.  

The training will be conducted on earthmover, dozer, roller excavator, etc operating skills under NHPC's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and skill development initiatives.

NHPC Senior Manager (HR), Pravesh Kumar and Assistant Director of Skill Development J Riba were present during the MoU signing ceremony.

The skill development project is targeted to provide employability skills to ST youths of the state in and around NHPC project-affected areas of Dibang Valley, Lower Dibang Valley, Tawang, Lower Subansiri and Papumpare districts.

 

 

 

Awareness prog on govt schemes

MIAO, Mar 8: The Pundit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Awareness & Tour Program was inaugurated by state BJP Minority Morcha President Loku Sono on Wednesday at Miao Circuit House, Changlang.

Organized by district Minority Morcha unit, the agenda of the program was to spread awareness of government schemes like Gram Uday se Bharat Uday, Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana and many more.

Speaking on the occasion, Sono said, "We are on a mission to spread the benefits of government schemes and we hope that the people value the schemes and understand the importance of it, as it would be extremely beneficial for any individual or a family".

Also present, former Minister C C Singpho called on the members to stand strong and united.

Later, Sono and Changlang MM unit president N Tangla also visited Government Middle School, Upper Miao, where they distributed stationery items to the children.

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

All rights reserved.

wpcd768846.png