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March 24

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Difficult terrain in NE poses challenge to development: centre

NEW DELHI, Mar 23: Difficult terrain, geographical location and short working season pose a challenge to carry out development work and maintain communication links in the Northeast, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said today.

"Difficult and hilly terrain, geographical location and short working season of the northeastern region pose a challenge to development of optimal infrastructure and communication links within the region and with the rest of the country," he said in Rajya Sabha.

Singh, Minister for Development of North-Eastern Region (DoNER), said the infrastructural bottlenecks include inadequate road and railway connectivity, power transmission and distribution, telecom connectivity and absence of airports in the region.

He said Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, under its Special Accelerated Road Development Programme - North East (SARDP-NE), out of 1,427 kms, 989 kms of roads have been completed during the last three years and the current year.

Apart from the development under SARDP-NE, about 637 km length of national highways (NHs) covered under NHDP Phases - I and II in Assam are being improved to four-lane standard as part of East-West Corridor.

Singh, replying to a written question, said that works in about 597 kms have been completed so far. Also, improvement of NH-44 from Jowai to Ratacherra (length 104 km) in Meghalaya to two-lane with paved shoulder is in progress by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

Ministry of Railways has sanctioned two new rail doubling projects totalling 283 kms in the region in the last three years.

Airports Authority of India (AAI) is constructing a greenfield airport at Pakyong (Sikkim) suitable for operation of ATR-72 aircraft. Also, AAI has planned operationalisation of Tezu airport in Arunachal Pradesh for ATR-72 aircraft operations.

Singh said under the Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan, Department of Telecom envisages providing mobile coverage to 8,621 identified uncovered villages by installation of about 6,673 mobile towers, installation of 321 mobile tower sites along National Highways and strengthening of transmission network in the region.

The DoNER minister said the Ministry of Power is implementing Comprehensive Scheme for Strengthening of Transmission and Distribution Systems in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim at a total estimated cost of Rs 4,754.42 crore with the completion schedule of 48 months - by December, 2018.

The Cabinet has accorded investment approval to North Eastern Region Power System Improvement Project (NERPSIP) for six states (viz Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura and Nagaland for strengthening of the intra-state transmission and distribution system (33 kv and above) at a total cost of Rs 5,111.33 crore with the completion schedule of 48 months - by December, 2018.

In addition, he said, the DoNER ministry provides funds to state governments to bridge infrastructural gaps in the Northeast. Under NLCPR scheme, the ministry has sanctioned 169 projects at an approved cost of Rs 2,791.44 crore and North Eastern Council has sanctioned 41 projects at an approved cost of Rs 500.58 crore, during the last three years and the current year. PTI

 

 

 

Capital police arrest 5 in Delhivery courier robbery

ITANAGAR, Mar 23: The Capital Police have arrested five persons in connection with several burglaries in Itanagar and Naharlagun, and solved the infamous Delhivery courier robbery incident.

Two unidentified persons had looted Rs 7, 87, 500 from the Delhivery Courier Service, located at Bank Tinali, which took place in October last year.

Those arrested, include Pravin Biswas alias Bapi (25) from Harmuty, Isac Nara (28) from Banderdewa, Vijaya Ragi (32) of Daporijo, Parge Tasso, who is also the Assistant Manager of the Delhivery Private Limited and Anthony Doke, both from Likabali.

All of them were arrested on Wednesday evening from various locations of Itanagar.

According to police sources, the entire robbery was allegedly masterminded by Parge Tasso, who is a civil engineer and was working as part time manager in the Delhivery courier company. He reportedly roped in Anthony Doke as they are from the same village.

All the arrested individuals, barring Doke, were working with Delhivery courier service at the time of the crime. Anthony Doke is a former cadre of now defunct National Liberation Council of Taniland.

Talking to this daily, Itanagar SDPO Techi Hanyir informed that the accused were arrested based on a tip off. She informed that the operation to nab the culprits was carried out under specific directions of Capital SP Dr A Koan. Sub Inspectors K Deb, Naharlagun PS and N Nishant, Itanagar PS also played critical roles, she added.

She also informed that some more people are under the scanner and they may be arrested soon. The accused is currently in police custody and further investigation is underway, the SDPO added.

 

 

 

Dangwimsai seeks HM’s intervention on Mere Vichaar investigation

ITANAGAR, Mar 23: The wife of former Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Lt Kalikho Pul has met Minister for Home Affairs Rajnath Singh seeking his intervention in the registration of FIR and investigation into the allegations contained in late Pul's notes.

The note titled "Mere Vichaar" briefly details his life history and thereafter shows his anguish about the corrupt state of affairs in politics and in the judiciary in the country.

"He details several allegations of corruption against politicians and judges... In particular, the note contains allegations of corruption against the sitting Chief Justice of India and the next Judge in superiority in the Supreme Court and also against the present President of India," Dangwimsai Pul wrote in the representation.

Since it also involves the Chief Justice and another sitting Judges of the Supreme Court, to protect the independence of the judiciary, it should not be investigated by any investigative body controlled by the government, she said in the report.

"If these allegations are not credibly investigated, a serious cloud of suspicion will continue to remain over the politicians and judges whose names are mentioned in the suicide note.

This would be most unfortunate for our democracy as well as for the judiciary. A credible investigation in this matter can only be done by an SIT constituted by 3/5 judges next in seniority to the judges named in the note," she added in her representation.

She demanded constitution of an SIT, monitored by the Supreme Court. She also requested security from a central security agency for herself and the family.

 

 

 

Aadhar camps to restart from March 27,

resumes in East Kameng  

YUPIA, Mar 23: The Papum Pare district administration is setting up temporary Aadhaar camps  at various locations of the district and Itanagar-Capital Complex from March 27 for coverage of the left-out population.

While interacting with UIDAI operators at his conference hall here on Thursday, Deputy Commissioner Tai Kaye exhorted them to work with dedication and sincerity to expedite the Aadhaar enrolment on war footing.

Kaye also appealed to the left-out population to cooperate and enroll their names at their respective PECs immediately.

District Statistical Officer E M Riram briefed the Adhaar operators and directed them to report at Permanent Enrolment Centres (PECs) by March 24 positively.

Later, the DC handed over BME kits like laptop, printer, scanner, GPS device to the operators.

The achievement under Aadhaar enrolment activities in Papum Pare (Rural) was 85 percent till May 2016.  However, the enrollment process halted due to expiry of time period of vendors, namely WEBEX and LYRA. Now, the Aadhaar activities are placed under UIDAI and the outpost Aadhaar works are being reactivated at PECs at DC, DDSE, DFCSO offices at Yupia, ADC offices, Balijan and Sagalee, SDO offices, Kimin and Doimukh and CO office Tarasso. (DIPRO)

The formal exercise of biometric enrolment for Aadhaar card in the entire district of East Kameng also resumed again on Wednesday with the enrolment of Deputy Commissioner Rajeev Takuk.

To ease out the exercise, the district has been divided and demarcated into various blocks and accordingly, dates and venues have been allotted to each block. Enrolment of individuals falling under the particular block or area will be done on specific dates in the centre allotted to the block.

Out of total 21 centres for now, the enrolment process will start at eight centres only, namely DC Office, Seppa, DDSE Office, Seppa, EAC Office, Bana, DRDA Office, Seppa, CO Circle, Gyawepurang, and ADC Offices Bameng, Chayangtajo and Seijosa. The exercise in the remaining centres for BME will start from April.

Meanwhile, the DC has made an appeal to the people of the district to come and enrol on the scheduled dates and venues. Further, he has requested the people to come and visit the District Statistics Office, Seppa (Nodal Office for registration of NPR and Biometric enrolment) for complete information and disseminate the message to others so that no one is left behind in this exercise.

 

 

 

District level development and co-ordination meet

Moyong outlines Pasighat plan

PASIGHAT, Mar 23: Chairing the District Level Development and Co-ordination meeting in Pasighat on Thursday, local MLA Kaling Moyong has assured his all-out support for taking forward the developmental goals of East Siang district.

Adding that he has taken due note of the various issues and projections in the Perspective Action Plans apprised by the HoDs in their respective sectors, Moyong laid stress on social sectors like education and health, and informed that Rs 10 crore provision for infrastructure upgrade of Arunachal University and JNC and Rs 15 crore for installation of CT Scan for General Hospital, Pasighat has also been made.

He also mentioned the proposed allocation for modernization of drug de-addiction centre at Pasighat in the Budget 2017-18.

On the infrastructure front, he asked for mandatory provision of drainage in the project plans for roads, adding that developmental plans for the district should be sustainable with a long term approach.

He also appreciated the proposal for a by-pass road for easing the traffic congestion keeping in mind the future growth of the centurion town, adding that we need wholehearted support from all, particularly landowners.

The MLA said that he would also take up for double lanning, while informing that the GoI is ready to support such infrastructural development. However, land compensation issues hinder such initiatives, he said, and hoped for positive outcome for the greater interest of Pasighat and the district as a whole.

On the proposed Mini Secretariat, Moyong suggested for properly planned building with G+ provision, along with beautification plan for aesthetics. Moyong also asked the PMC to gear up for the fine tuning of the Smart City Plan proposal to be presented by March 31.

The meeting was also attended by MLA Kento Rina and PMC Chief Councillor Kaling Doruk who gave their inputs and suggestions for strengthening the Action Plans.

Earlier, DC Tamiyo Tatak asked the HoDs to direct their respective staff to enrol for biometric enrolment for Adhaar card. On the requirement of land for various infrastructure projects like Regional Driving School, ISBT, he asked to explore feasible sites within the district. He also called for inter-departmental coordination meeting to check overlapping and future problems in various issues and projects. The DC also asked for expediting land acquisition for Transmission lines.

Nodal Officer for registration of NPR and biometric enrolment for Adhaar card, A Jamoh (i/c District Statistical Officer) informed that process for biometric enrolment has begun from March 22 and urged all the citizens to enrol and not miss out this time.

Earlier, the HoDS of various departments briefed on challenges, issues and Action Plans of their respective departments. (DIPRO)

 

 

 

One arrested

YUPIA, Mar 23: The Arunachal Pradesh Police, Doimukh unit has arrested one Abhishek Bhargabh (Abhishek Bora) from Dispur, Assam in connection with an alleged unsolved case no.53/13 and 54/13 U/S 420/34 IPC.

Allegedly, Abhishek had cheated off Rs 27, 43, 000 and Rs 76, 57, 000 from two local contractors in 2010 with promise of awarding contractual work of laying OFC works in Arunachal Pradesh. The accused was produced before the CJM Yupia on Wednesday and has been remanded to judicial custody.

The police team was headed by SI Tilling Habung, under the close supervision of Yupia SP Tumme Amo.

 

 

 

CHF celebrates 17th foundation day

Horticulture plays greater role in employment generation, says CAU VC

PASIGHAT, Mar 23: The horticulture sector played an important role in poverty alleviation, employment generation and nutritional food security in the country, said Vice Chancellor of Central Agricultural University (CAU), (Imphal), Professor M Premjit Singh on the occasion of the 17th Foundation Day celebration of the College of Horticulture and Forestry (CHF), Pasighat on Wednesday.

In the recent past, the horticulture sector has emerged as one of the most vibrant components of agriculture in accelerating the growth of economy, he said, adding that India has emerged as the largest producer of mango, banana and cashew and second largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world. Over 58 percent of rural households depend on agriculture for livelihood, he said.

Pasighat in particular and Arunachal Pradesh as a whole have enormous opportunities in horticulture business, he added.

Singh further said that CHF Pasighat, which has completed 16 years of its academic journey, is the pride of the nation.

During its glorious academic journey, the college has gained newer heights securing second position in the nation and won four national awards during the last two months, he said.

He also threw light on transfer of technology, climate change, plant protection and farmers' rights and gave away awards to the achievers (students) on the occasion.

Deputy Commissioner Tamiyo Tatak advised the students to maintain a balance between excellence and social responsibility. Advising the students to refrain from drugs and alcohol abuse, Tatak disclosed that there were cases of youths inclining to synthetic drugs in the district. "It was a serious problem which had to be tackled with a multi-pronged strategy involving medical, law enforcement, teachers and parents, he said. Any suspicious activity should be reported immediately to the administration", he said while appreciating the East Siang ABK (WW) for their exemplary endeavors to make the society drug-free.

S Sankaranarayana, GM, NABARD, Itanagar, Dr C A Srinivasmurty, Director Research, CAU (Imphal), Dr K Mamocha Singh, Registrar, CAU (Imphal) and Professor A K Pandey, Dean, CHF also spoke on the occasion.

A large number of faculty members and students, including some distinguished alumni attended the occasion. (DIPRO)

 

 

 

Mt Kangto exploration team flagged off

[ Taro Chatung ]

ITANAGAR, Mar 23: Sports and Youth Affairs Secretary Dani Salu on Thursday flagged off the Mt Kangto Exploration Team on Thursday. The team headed by Everester Tapi Mra consists of deputy leader, Everester Tame Bagang, and mountaineers Tagik Sorang and Taru Hai.

At least eight supporters and two local guides are also part of the team. The team will start trekking from Rapo under Lada circle of East Kameng district and is expected to return after 25 days of exploration.

Wishing the team a successful exploration Salu advised the team members to give importance to specific findings which would help  the  future generation in exploring  the unexplored Kangto. He also assured logistic support from his department and also contributed monetarily to the team in his personal capacity.

Reportedly, exploring Mt Kangto has been a long-cherished dream of Tapi Mra, who conquered Mt Everest in 2009.

Ziro-based Taro Opey Foundation Chairman Taro Chatung was also present on the occasion.

 

 

 

CM declares open 5th Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsava

TAWANG, Mar 23:  Chief Minister Pema Khandu declared open the 5th 'Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsava' organized by the Ministry of Culture, GoI at the Parade Ground on Thursday.  

The nine-day cultural extravaganza will witness the participation of about 100 artists representing different tribes of Arunachal and over 500 artists from across the country showcasing their traditional folk dances and music.

While appreciating the Union Minister of State for Tourism & Culture, Dr Mahesh Sharma's efforts for organizing the cultural extravaganza despite communication bottleneck issues, the Chief Minister said that Arunachal being land to over 26 tribes and 100 sub-tribes with diversity of culture expanding from Tawang to Longding, is the best place to host such a mega cultural event.

The CM also informed that a regional cultural centre of the North East Zonal Cultural Centre (NEZCC) will soon be established at Itanagar, which would have exhibition of crafts from different tribes of the state with state-of-the-art facilities.  

The ongoing festival is being implemented through the seven zonal cultural centers in collaboration with other cultural organizations of different states of North East India. The NEZCC, Dimapur has been entrusted with the responsibility as the nodal agency to carry forward the execution of the national cultural festival of India.  

Among others, NEZCC Director, Dr O P Bharti, Tawang DC, Sang Phuntso, Tawang MLA, Tsering Tashi, ZPC, Jambey Tsering, DoKAA Director, Lama Tashi, Padmashree Lama Thupten Phuntsok and Commander of 190 Mountain Brigade Brigadier, M P Singh were also present on the occasion.

 

 

 

Governor calls for TB awareness

ITANAGAR, Mar 23: Governor of Arunachal Pradesh P B Acharya has appealed to the government departments, civil society, NGOs and student organizations to create awareness on tuberculosis on the occasion of World TB Day.

The Governor said this in a message on the eve of World TB Day. He called on organized groups like Ex-Servicemen, university students, Bharat Scouts & Guides, Red Cross Society, enlightened citizens and others to come forward in their individual and organizational capacities to banish TB as a national agenda.

 

 

 

Select Committee report

ITANAGAR, Mar 23:  The State Legislative Assembly Secretary has in a release on Thursday informed that the Select Committee, which was constituted to examine the Kameng Professional & Technical University, Arunachal Pradesh Bill 2017, would submit its report within the next three months from the date of constitution of the committee.

 

 

 

AACWA urges govt to make cash available in ATMs

ITANAGAR, Mar 23: The All Arunachal Contractor's Welfare Association (AACWA) has urged the state government and particularly the Finance Minister and Commissioner Finance to give strong directives to all the banks of the twin capital to immediately make cash available in the ATMs.

From the last few days, dwellers of the twin capital are facing problems due to non-availability of cash in ATMs, the association stated, while adding that since the twin cities of Itanagar-Naharlagun is the capital of the state, all kinds of modern amenities should be working 24 hours.

 

 

 

Rebia inspects IMC projects

NIRJULI, Mar 23: Minister UD Nabam Rebia inspected various ongoing projects being implemented by the Itanagar Municipal Corporation, which includes Abattoir House, burial ground and proposed IMC Divisional Office at Chimpu and Jully, and APST bus stand at Naharlagun.

Rebia has requested the IMC Deputy Chief Councillor to work out possibilities for an alternate road from Nirjuli to the cremation ground and directed the Executive Engineer to keep provision for drainage.

Regarding the burial ground at Karsingsa, he directed the IMC authority to expedite the process of floating tender and order formalities to start the work before the rains start. Rebia said that during his term as MP, he had contributed a sum of Rs 5 lakhs.

IMC Chief Councillor Kipa Kaku, Deputy Chief Councillor Tarh Nachung, Town Planning Director Amoy Morang, IMC Empowering Committee Member Tatung Tania, Gora Tallang, Ngurang Yachi, and IMC Engineering Wing Executive Engineer Tadar Tarang accompanied the minister.  

 

 

 

DM bans sale of tobacco products

AALO, Mar 23: West Siang District Magistrate, Gamli Padu has banned sale and import of all tobacco products like guktah, pan masala, cigarette etc. within the jurisdiction of West Siang district with immediate effect.

'Sale of tobacco products by shopkeepers to persons below the age of 18 years is illegal under the COTPA Act-2003 and expedient to arrange some drastic measures to contain the menace in order to maintain public health and hygiene. Anyone found violating the order will be booked and action initiated as per provisions of law', the order read.

The DM further directed the West Siang Superintendent of Police and all outpost administrative officers to enforce the executive order in letter and spirit. (DIPRO)

 

 

 

Italian NGO sponsors books for govt schools

ITANAGAR, Mar 23: A Village Library Project was held for government schools of Kuntse-Dudunghar and Khardung villages, where an Italy-based NGO Lama Monlam and their Italian friends sponsored the books.

This project is an effort of the NGO, along with a native of the area, Tsomo Tenzin, to help needy children with books on academic subjects, besides other books, such as encyclopaedias, dictionaries, biographies, and on subjects of sports and women empowerment. These books are expected to help middle school and higher secondary school students, as well as their teachers in imparting quality education.

 

 

 

Mechuka to host district level badminton tournament

AALO, Mar 23: The District Badminton Association, West Siang under the aegis of Arunachal State Badminton Association will host the second district level badminton tournament at Mechuka from April 20 to 23 next.

Jointly sponsored by Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Jomde Kena and Mechuka MLA-cum-Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, PD Sona, the tournament will hold events for under-15 years boys and girls category, singles and doubles for men and under 16 to 30 yrs category, besides senior and veteran categories.

Aalo DASO, Tumto Loyi further informed that free accommodation will be provided at the Tourist Lodge Mechuka during the event. (DIPRO)

 

 

 

2nd Paralympic Games ends

ITANAGAR, Mar 23: The 2nd Paralympic Games-2017, which started on March 21 last at Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy, Chimpu has ended on Thursday.

The closing function was attended by Minister Education & Library Honchun Ngandam and heads of various sporting organisations.

The concluding day saw performances by Donyi Polo Mission School for Hearing Impaired, Itanagar and students of Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy, Chimpu, including a demonstration of wheel chair 100 mtr race.

 

 

 

Cultivation of subtropical fruit encouraged

ZIRO, Mar 23: Principal Scientist (Horticulture) & Head, Division of Crop Production, ICAR-CISH Lucknow, Dr Pandey suggested cultivation of subtropical fruits like mango and guava, along with oranges to diversify the foot hill area's expansion programme of Arunachal Pradesh.

Speaking during a National Horticulture Board, Gurgaon (Haryana) and AICRP (Fruits), IIHR Bengaluru sponsored daylong state-level training-cum-demonstration programme on kiwi and orange, organized by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Yachuli at Hapoli, Lower Subansiri on Wednesday, Dr Pandey spoke about hi-tech production of kiwi fruit and possibilities and prospect of subtropical and tropical fruits in Arunachal Pradesh.

He also suggested for introduction of few more male and female varieties of kiwi and introduction of some more red and yellow fleshed kiwi cultivars, along with suitable pollinizers compatible to local kiwis at early stages.

While terming the climatic conditions of few places in Jammu & Kashmir as similar to Ziro, Principal Scientist (Horticulture), Lucknow, Dr K K Srivastava advocated for cultivation of apple, pear, peach, plum, apricot and nut fruit in Ziro.

Later, field demonstration pertaining to pruning and agro-techniques was held at kiwi orchard of Kodak Village, Lower Subansiri for the progressive farmers.

The programme was attended by District Training Officer (FTC), G Hocha, Deputy Director, Agriculture, Boria Nakum, NABARD DDM, OP Mounlang, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Yachuli, Dr A N Tripathi and members of Kiwi Association of Lower Subansiri and progressive farmers from different parts of the state. (DIPRO)

 

 

 

IGRMS felicitates Dr Megeji

ITANAGAR, Mar 23: Dr Rhenchin Megeji, a scholar from Arunachal was felicitated by the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya, Bhopal (IGRMS) Director, Professor Sarit Kumar Chaudhuri with a memento and certificate in recognition of his contribution to the museum on the occasion of its 41st Foundation Day recently.

Dr Megeji, a PhD in Anthropology from Rajiv Gandhi Central University, Itanagar was instrumental in construction of Sherdukpen tribe's traditional house in Himalayan Village open air exhibition at the IGRMS.

 

 

 

World TB Day

[ Tare Bage ]

ITANAGAR, Mar 23: The history of World Tuberculosis Day dates back to the year 1882 when Robert Heinrich Hermann Koch, a German physician and pioneering Microbiologist astounded the world with his discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis-the bacteria which cause Tuberculosis (TB) at Berlin.

The first World TB Day celebration meeting was held by the WHO and the Royal Netherland Tuberculosis Foundation in the year 1995 in Den Haag, Netherlands where it was declared that The World TB Day would be observed annually across the world on 24th March every year since then. The day is marked by activities such as school programmes, community meeting, advocacy meeting, public gathering, media activities, sensitization programmes etc.

The objective of World TB day is to make the public aware about the basic and essential knowledge of TB; causes, prevention, cure and availability of treatment services of this disease. This disease is estimated to kill about 1.7 million people every year.

TB is an airborne infection. It generally affects the lungs. It gets transmitted from an infected person to another person through the tiny droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

People must know that TB is a curable disease, provided that diagnosis and its treatment are provided at the right time. Therefore, knowledge of the basic signs and symptoms is very important. The youths, intellectuals, NGOs, must shoulder the responsibility in disseminating the information to those who do not have an understanding of this disease. TB becomes very complicated to treat when treatment is left in between. This results into more complicated to treat form of TB that is Drug-Resistant TB (DR-TB). Many must have heard about MDR-TB and XDR-TB. DR-TB is the result of leaving the medicine in between or by transmission of bacteria from one person to another. The treatment of such form of TB goes up to 24 months and is very costly. Thus adhering to the advice of the doctor is highly recommended.

It is very heartening to know that the RNTCP, Arunachal Pradesh has established state-of-the-art CBNAAT machines to detect MDR-TB in our own state. The high-tech machine can detect the bacilli in less than two hours. This has eased the process of diagnosis and  subsequent treatment on time so that an infected person can be treated early, thereby preventing the disease before it spreads to more number of people and another  precious live at risk can be saved. Recently, we also witnessed house-to-house screening for TB under its active case finding efforts in selected districts with high TB burden, including districts with high MDR-TB Cases. TB diagnosis, treatment and medicines are available at all the health facilities across the state. Besides the treatment, services are provided under the supervision of DOT provider or healthcare worker.

Eradicating the TB menace is not an easy task. It will require constant efforts from all the corners. Thus people like us -students, youth groups and other learned members of the society can play a crucial role by passing on the knowledge on TB to those who are still ignorant and thus are more vulnerable to the disease. Talking freely about TB, its signs and symptoms, availability of diagnosis, treatment and medicine in all the government health facility is the need of the hour to combat the stigma attached with the disease.

 

 

 

Society mourns Kido Ingo's demise

ITANAGAR, Mar 23: The Nyiko Panggii Society, Itanagar (NPSI) has mourned the untimely demise of Kido Ingo of Logum Jini Village, West Siang district on March 22.

Besides being an outstanding multilingual orator, he had been very active in state politics as well as in social activities, the NPSI said. He contested twice for MLA for 31st East Constituency in 1994 and in 1999 as Independent candidate and on BJP ticket respectively. In 1999, he was made then President of District Committee Congress-I of West Siang district. Later, he contested for Member of Parliament (MP) for Arunachal East Lok Shaba Constituency in 2004.

 

 

 

Demonstration on scientific pig farming

NAMSAI, Mar 23:  A farm demonstration on pig-cum-fish farming, conducted by KVK Lohit under ICAR-NRC on Yak, began at different villages of Namsai district, including Samuguri, Chongkham, Borbeel, Nanam Khamyang II, Kumari Khampti, Khowji and Medo under the guidance of Programme Coordinator in-charge, Dr Debasis Sasmal.

The units will be maintained by SHGs and progressive farmers. Earlier, as part of the programme, the farmers and members of SHG were provided cross-bred piglets, concentrated feed and medicines to encourage scientific farming of pig with low cost technology.

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

All rights reserved.

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---- Editorial ----

 

 

Minority harassment

Just few days into BJP government in Uttar Pradesh, the controversy is starting to surround the government.   BJP state administration under Yogi Adityanath has started 'anti-Romeo' squads to allegedly check "eve-teasing", which is a gentler term for sexual harassment. The campaign, which was a BJP pre-poll promise, as expected is marked by harassment of innocent youths. There have been several reports of youths being unduly harassed and given moral lesson by the UP police. In the name of checking eve teasing, the UP police are behaving like big bully.

Also the new BJP government's decision to ban slaughterhouse is starting to have crippling effect on business run by minority Muslim community.  Today the "Tunday Kababi", the 100-year-old shop that draws people from India and abroad to the crowded Chowk area of Uttar Pradesh's capital Lucknow had to shut business for some time due to non-availability of Buffalo meat. Government has started to seal many illegal slaughter houses. In some instances slaughter houses have been even burnt down by the miscreants. This is a clear attempt to intimidate minority community. Now there is growing fear that UP government may even try to close down the legal slaughter houses. If such thing happens thousands of people will lose employment opportunities and they will be rendered jobless. This will have devastating effect and may lead to social unrest. Prime Minister Narendra Modi often talks about Sabka Saath Sabka Vikash but actions of his party are just opposite. BJP in order to win elections are creating deep divide in the Indian society based on religion. This may have catastrophic effect on Indian society as a whole in coming year.

 

  

 

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---- Readers Forum ----

 

 

 

An Open Letter to the CM and Health Minister

Dear Editor,

Through your esteemed daily, I would like to draw the attention of the CM Pema Khandu and the Minister Health Jomde Kena that after completing my B Pharm Degree from Tripura on a Govt. quota, my poor parents took a loan of Rs. 2,00,000/-(Rs. Two Lakhs only) from some local money lenders at the interest rate of 10%(Ten Percent) per month and bought a M Pharm seat in one of the Colleges in Andhra Pradesh.

Right from day one of the admission, I worked hard and successfully passed the 1st (First) Semester Exam with distinction in almost all the papers. My joy knew no bounds when I saw the advertisement on 8th November, 2016 for filling up of 41(Fourty One) no. of posts of Pharmacist in various Hospitals in Arunachal Pradesh. Immediately I took the permission from my parents and rushed to Itanagar to submit the forms with all required documents.

As expected, I did well in the Written Exam and found my name among the successful Candidates on the Notice Board of DHS on 2/02/2017. Immediately I then rushed back to Hydrabad to collect the original documents from the college authorities. After persuading for a week or so, finally I was given the original documents but with the condition that I forfeit all the cash deposits and further that I am no longer a student of the College pursuing the Post Graduation Course.

Now having lost all the hard earned money which my poor parents borrowed and also a precious one year I am now keeping my fingers crossed for the gamble I took. Although my fellow aspirants have formed Associations to plead the Govt. for free and fair recruitment and also met the Health Department authorities for early conduct of Viva-voce Tests, yet the authorities are sitting over the Written results and playing around with our precious time.

Now that a record time of nearly a month lapsed and we, the frustrated Candidates, are fully exhausted and are at the verge of surrendering our Candidature, as a last resort, through the Column’s of your esteemed dailies, we appeal the HCM and the Minister Health to kindly intervene and direct the Health Department authorities to conduct the interview within a week time and display the result on the same day of the interview as is being done by APPSC.

Yours,

Frustrated candidates for the post of Pharmacists

 

 

 

Judiciary Must Interfere to Uphold the APPSC Sanctity

Dear Editor,

It is common sense knowledge that under Article 320 of the Indian Constitution, the Powers and the Functions of the Constitutional Body like the UPSC at the Centre and State Public Service Commission at the State are clearly laid down. It is further clearer that to implement the spirit of the Constitutional provisions under Article 16(Equality of Opportunity) and Article 14 (Equality of before Law) both the Constitutional Bodies of UPSC and SPSC are entrusted with the task of recruiting All India Civil Service Officials and the State Civil Service Officials through a well laid down method of Open Competitive Examination consisting of Written Exams followed Viva-voce Test. Even in cases of lateral entry into All India Services, it is the UPSC and not any Govt. Department of Personnel that conducts Limited Departmental Exams consisting of Written and Viva-voce Test along with some weightage to few consecutive years of brilliant ACRS’s of the Candidates duly screened and forwarded by various Govt. Departments both the Centre and the State to the UPSC.

However, it is only in Arunachal, which is often known as the ‘Land of Khusi Khusi’, that there have been repeated cases of naked violations of the Constitutional provisions under Article 320. The illegal acts of the Personnel Department to recruit 19 (Nineteen) nos. of Circle Officers through Lateral Entry System (devoid of Limited Departmental Written Exams followed by Viva-voce test to be conducted by State Public Service Commission) is simply an act of hijacking the Powers and Functions of State Public Service Commission. Such an act is not only condemnable but it amounts to criminal breach of offence and mistrust on the Constitutional Body like APPSC and the Constitution itself. The APPSC(Limitation of Functions) Regulation 1988 framed under the Constitutional provisions of Article 320 does not empowered the Govt. Department of Personnel to assume the role or take away the Powers and the Functions of the State Public Service Commission. Therefore, to argue or justify its acts of recruiting 19(Nineteen) post of the First Class Gazetted Officials through a method of Later Entry System and by constituting a high power Committee headed by the Chief Secretary is a gross violation of the Constitutional Provisions under the Article 320 of the Constitution as well as interference in the autonomous functioning the State Public Service Commission and the Provisions laid down in the APPSC (Limitation of Functions) Regulation 1988.

Although the petition filed by Association of Teachers (ATA) might be weak in content and approach, yet the crux of the matter, which I suppose, the learned Judges of the High Court Itanagar Bench have already noticed, is the illegality and the wrong interpretation of the Article 309. Under this, the President or the Governor as the case may be, can be pleased to make rules to regulate the method of recruitment to Union or State Civil Services in consonance with Provisions of the Constitution and not otherwise. Therefore, the Arunachal Pradesh Civil Services Rules 2006 invoking Article 309 is in direct confrontation with Article 320 and therefore not in consonance with the provisions of the Constitution. A Committee consisting of the Chief Secretary and the few Others cannot take the Powers and the Functions of the State Public Service Commission. Also Honourable Court may note that there cannot be 2 (two) recruiting body i.e. one for Open Competitive Exams and another for Lateral Entry through Viva-voce Test for the same post of APCS Entry Grade Officials. Also Honourable Court may note that the Executive Decision taken under the Article 161 of the Constitution cannot override the Constitutional Provisions under Article 320 (the Powers and the Functions of UPSC and SPSC).

In view of the above facts of law, I humbly appeal the Honourable Judges of Guahati High Court Itanagar Bench to give an immediate stay order of the whole illegal process and further direct the Govt. to hand over the entire Files and Other related documents including the Selected List of few privileged Candidates to the State Public Service Commission for further necessary actions. Such an act of Judiciary will not only upkeep the sanctity of the Constitutional Body but will also prevent the Govt. from future wrongdoings or transgressing the powers of the Constitutional Body.

Yours,

Mizum Lollen

 

 

 

No room for negligence

Dear Editor,

Through your esteemed daily I would like to write down a letter to the APPSC.

In the recently concluded AE exam, why did you not follow the norms of viva ratio?? You say you follow UPSC rules by carrying forward the posts for PWD candidates, and then why not also declare results with marks?? That is what UPSC, SSC does. Actually these institutions declare written marks even before viva so that there is no room for manipulation. But, in your case one has to write application, file IPO, RTI and even after doing that the wait for marks is way too long. You yourself create the doubtful atmosphere that surrounds you after every exam. I understand the saying “To err is human” but you being the apex body, there is no room for negligence in your part.

Lastly, it is not a joke; it is all sweat and hardwork. You are playing with young talented minds, someone’s life and those talented minds might get diverted in wrong areas if you (our only hope) keeps going on like this.

Yours,

A candidate

 

 

 

Shortage of IPO

Dear Editor,

Through your esteemed daily, I would like to put forth my request to bring change in modes of payment of application fee for applying various post in the establishment under the Jurisdiction of District & session court Tezu & Yupia. There already has been shortage in IPO in the entire Post office and the aspirants for the respective post are in huge numbers and now the chances of getting IPO is nil due to non -availability.

Further it is worth mentioning that even if IPO comes up it will not meet the demands required.

Therefore, I appeal to the concern authority to make the modes of payment through Bank Challan by giving the details of their respective head of accounts on next publication of the same advertisement as corrigendum along with postponing the last date of submission of application.

Yours

An Aspirant

 

 

 

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---Editor