nov15 19

2015

November 19

Forum writes to PM, seeks CBI enquiry

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Arunachal Justice Forum in a representation to the Prime Minister of India has alleged that under the current Chief Minister, Arunachal has suffered serious setbacks.

Citing several examples, the organization sought the attention of the Prime Minister on alleged cases of corruption and demanded institution of CBI inquiry against Chief Minister Nabam Tuki.

It demanded CBI inquiry into numerous cases allegedly against the Chief Minister as well as Tuki’s resignation for impartial CBI enquiry.

It also demanded CBI enquiry against Padi Richo, President APCC for alleged misappropriation of public funds with fraudulent activities worth Rs. 28 crore in computer aided learning.

It also sought appointment of state Lokayukta as soon as possible among others.

PMC ward bye-poll notified

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: State Election Commission (SEC) has notified the bye-election for Ward No five of Pasighat Municipality yesterday. Polling will be held on December 16 and counting of votes will take place on Dec 19. (The polling date was wrongly printed as Dec 12 in place of Dec 16 in previous issue of this daily.)

DC inspects damaged mini hydels

TEZU, Nov 18: Deputy Commissioner Tamiyo Tatak inspected the Mini Hydro Schemes of Duranallah and Tafragam, Tezu today which are damaged in various locations. The damages were caused in the last monsoon season.

Executive Engineer Hydro Power (Electro & Mechanical) Jumbom Geyi has informed that immediate restoration of the damage is necessary for undisrupted power supply in and around Tezu township and its adjoining areas. The MHS Duranallah has a capacity of 300KW and MHS Tafragam-250 KW, provides power supply to Loiliang and Tafragam villages respectively.

In addition, the two MHS also provide power supply in District Medical, VKV School Tezu, VKV Tafragam.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner has asked the Executive Engineer to submit a report and assured to render every possible help and assistance for its immediate restoration. DIPRO

‘Make the workers aware of benefits”: Karbak

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: The Parliamentary Secretary-cum-chairman, APB&OCWWB, Nyamar Karbak urged the trade union leaders to make the workers at grassroots level aware of the various benefits extended to them by the Board.

Addressing a meeting of all the trade union presidents and secretaries of various departments at Board office today, Karbak appreciated trade union leaders for their co-operation in delivering benefits to workers. He informed that the Board is organizing a mega health camp cum awareness programme at Raj Bhawan and Governor JP Rajkowa has consented to attend the function.

Forum appeals DC to reconsider Itanagar-Hollongi road closure notification

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: The Vth Lower Balijan Indigenous People Forum strongly opposed the notification issued by the Capital Complex Deputy Commissioner to close down the Itanagar-Hollongi road for one month for undertaking construction works, including earth cutting, of the 4-lane road.

While urging the DC for reconsideration of the decision, the Forum in a representation to the Deputy Commissioner stated that the Hollongi-Itanagar road serves is the lifeline for the people of Lower Balijan and closure of the road will bring hardship to the people of the area, who frequently use the road.

Digital class room and English language lab inaugurated at SFS College

AALO Nov.18: Digital Class Room and English Language Laboratory was inaugurated at SFS College Aalo by Rt. Rev. Dr. John Thomas, Bishop of Itanagar on his official tour to the college recently in presence of Rev. Fr. Augustine Manager, Fr. Vipin George Principal, Sr. Anne vice principal, Sr. Belsy COE, staffs and students.

It is a part of SFS College’s constant effort to introduce technology in teaching learning process of the college.

It would give access to the students the latest development in various disciplines and the English language lab would enable the students to learn the English language. DIPRO

Cashless Mini Perc surgery on 7-yr-old boy

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: The doctors at Samaritan Hormin Hospital have successfully performed Mini Perc (Mini PCNL) surgery, a very complicated form of surgery on a 7-year-old boy under the Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Universal Health Insurance Scheme (APCMUHIS) without any cost incurred.

The patient who belongs to a very poor background, and hails from a very remote area of Arunachal Pradesh, with no monetary support for medical treatment was referred to Guwahati, said a hospital press statement.

This boy have underwent several treatments over a period of 2 years for Kidney stone with hydronephosis under various doctors in Tezpur, Assam and in state capital from where he was referred outside the state for surgical intervention.

On Nov 13, the boy’s family members upon hearing the facilities for such surgical procedure being available at the Hormin Hospital, immediately got admitted under APCMUHIS.

Vodafone in Changlang

CHANGLANG, Nov 18: Changlang North MLA Tesam Pongte launched Vodafone service in Changlang district headquarters in presence of Changlang Deputy Commissioner Wayong Khimhun. Inaugurating the Mini-store, he hoped that with the launch of Vodafone, the problems of communication bottleneck of the district headquarters will be solved. He urged the company to provide good quality services and maintain consistency.

Earlier Zonal Business Manager, Vodafone Arnab Banerjee assured of company’s best services to the customers.

Memo submitted

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: The All Arunachal Pradesh Saakshar Bharat Mission Employee Association (AAPSBMEA) has submitted a memorandum to the Union Minister of Human Resource Development and Union Minister of State for Home Affairs today, seeking early fulfillment of its demands. The demands of the Association include; regularization of Saakshar Bharat Mission (SBM) employees, release of pending honorarium as well as its enhancement, immediate release of pending state share, establishment of Adult Education Center at 1713 Gram Panchayats, supply of TLM, issue of computer set to each state, district and block coordinators.

Khonsa boy wins Governor Quiz event

KHONSA, Nov 18: Ngamtu Atoa, a class -XI student of Government Higher Secondary School won the state level Governor's GK quiz running trophy in a quiz competition held at Naharlagun on Nov 15. He received a trophy and a cash award of Rs.5,000. Eleven groups from various schools in the state participated in the quiz competition. Atoa was the lone participant from Tirap district. He hails from Moktowa village in Dadam area. Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha while congratulating Atoa when the latter called on him has decided to award him with some cash incentives. (DIPRO)

CM’s grant loin loom scheme

KHONSA, Nov 18: The Department of Textile and Handicrafts, Tirap district distributed Acylic yarn under the Chief Minister’s Grant Loin Loom Scheme 2013-14 on Nov 16 to the deserving handloom beneficiaries (weavers) of Tirap.

ZPC Tirap Chawang Lowang and ZPM Khela-Lamsa block Sontung Lowang Bangsia, while addressing the beneficiaries advised them to avail such opportunities to the maximum for their self sustenance rather than looking for government jobs. Both of them also spoke on several government schemes which would benefit them.

The Assistant Director, Textile & Handicrafts, Khonsa, Chanyok Rajkumari in her keynote address informed the weavers regarding the scheme and encouraged them to come forward with assorted traditional based handloom products for promotion of handloom sector in Tirap district.

Job Mela cum skill development awareness rally

NAMSAI, Nov 18: The Namsai district administration organized a meeting with PRI members at DC’s office premises today in connection with conduct of job mela cum skill development awareness and trainees selection rally.

Namsai Deputy Commissioner R K Sharma in his speech urged the Panchayat members to ensure huge participation so that the unemployed youth and the school dropouts can be skilled in different trade for earning their livelihood instead of seeking Government jobs which is very limited.

ADI Namsai B R Dey asked the PRI members to ensure maximum participation from all section of the society.

The aim of the meeting was to sensitize the PRI members about the Chief Minister Flagship Programme on creation of skill and to create job opportunities for the unemployed youth of the district.

AAPLU seeks posting of ROs

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Claiming that several district headquarters such as Yinkoing, Anini, Anjaw, Roing and Longding are facing problems due to non-posting of registration officers, All Arunachal Pradesh Labour Union (AAPLU) sought immediate posting of registration officers (RO) at mentioned places.

In its representation to Arunachal Pradesh Building and Others Construction Workers Welfare Board (APB&OCWWB) Chairman, AAPLU stated that posting of ROs would help the workers to get the benefits of the schemes under the Board.

KVK Scientists visit remote villages

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: A team of KVK Anjaw scientists led by Senior Scientist-cum-Head Dr. Manish Kanwat visited remote Suphliang, Chameliang, Metengliang and Barfu villages of Anjaw district to apprise the farmers about the newly launched Soil Health Card Scheme recently.

During the visit, the team inspected the farmers fields and informed them about Soil Health Card which will provide crop-wise recommendation of nutrients and fertilizers required for the individual farmers to enhance crop productivity. The team also collected soil samples by making a grid of 10 ha area in selected villages with the objective of creating awareness among the farmers about the soil fertility status and to promote soil test based nutrient management through analyzing the strength and weakness of the soil.

Kena for proper marketing strategies for promotion of tourism

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Transport, Cooperation & Civil Aviation Minister Jomde Kena stressed the need of proper marketing strategies for promotion of tourism in the state. The Minister said this while inaugurating a tourists’ resort near Likabali Check gate today.

Appreciating the owner of the resort Ibi Dirchi for her courage and entrepreneurship skills, Kena encouraged the local youths to come forward and open more such resorts and hotels for self employment.

Sub-Divisional Officer, Likabali, other head of department, prominent citizen, Panchayat members of Likabali area attended the inaugural function.

ATI training

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: A three days training on "Management Development" for senior and middle level officers from various Heads of Offices commenced at Administrative Training Institute (ATI), Naharlagun today.

The training is being conducted by a team of highly qualified professionals from Integrated Business Information System and Solutions (IBISS), Kolkata who are expertise in managements and human resource development.

The programme aims at sensitizing the senior officers in identifying leadership traits, effective management plans, on the essence of team building to inculcate the feeling of family in the organization and creative and effective decision making skills.

YW Ringu, Addl. Secretary and Director Disaster Management Department inaugurated the training.

ATI Director Pate Marik, Dy. Director Priscilla Tayeng and Asst. Director Nani Khambo also attended the opening ceremony and spoke.

Educational tour for girl students

PASIGHAT, Nov 18: Thirty girl students from various Upper Primary Residential Schools of East Siang left for North East Educational (exposure) tour on Nov-15 last escorted by the Gender Coordinator Obit Jomrang Jamoh under Sarva Siksha Abhiyan.

Gender coordinator Jamoh opined that “such tour will help in personality and confidence building of the students. An educational tour offers an opportunity for rich experience and is a tremendous way to facilitate learning”. DIPRO

Kurung Kumey Taekwondo team for Mini Olympics

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: All Kurung Kumey District Taekwondo Association has announced the district taekwondo team for the ensuing Mini Olympic Games scheduled to be held here from December 2.

The players were selected after a selection trial conducted at Sangey Lhaden Sports Academy, Chimpu on November 14 and 15.

The team: (Men): Ranjit Biswakarma (U-48kg), Taba Tamon (U-51kg), Tai Tari (U-55kg), Bengia Takap (U-59kg), Kano Kon (U-63kg), Joy Chandra Bormon (U-68kg), Lungkung Radhe (U-73kg), Durga Biswakarma (above 73kg); (Women): Achun Sangha (U-44kg), Nabam Menia (-47kg), Rikpi Nyodo (U-51kg), Dorik Gamo (U-55kg), Kabak Oni (above 55kg).

Poomsae event: Nisso Atuli (single woman), Rajit Biswakarma (single man), Bengia Ramu and Chera Chnughu (pair).

Selection trial

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Papum Pare District Badminton Association will conduct selection trials on November 21 and 22 at Raj Bhawan Badminton court to select players for the ensuing Mini Olympic Games scheduled from December 2.

The selection trials will be held for men and women Singles, Doubles (open) and mixed doubles (open).

Selection trials

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Papum Pare Amateur Boxing Association will conduct selection trial at SLSA, Chimpu on November 21 to select boxers for the Mini Olympic Games.

The selection trials will be held in the weight categories of 46kg. 48kg, 50kg, 52kg, 54kg, 57kg, 60kg, 63kg, 66kg, 70+kg (men) and 48kg, 50kg, 52kg, 54kg, 57kg, 60+kg, (women).

Amnu Wangcha Memorial Badminton Tourney begins at Longding

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: The first Amnu Wangcha Memorial Inter-departmental Badminton Tournament exclusively for the officers and officials of various government departments of Longding began at New Indoor Stadium Longding on November 16.

The tournament was formally inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner. Tope Bam in presence of DMO Dr. Taka Zirdo, officers and officials.

Abo Monwangham, Organising Secretary explained the importance of organizing such events in an insurgency afflicted district like Longding with no proper place to spend leisure time or take part in recreational activities.

Lamgan Wangsu, Convenor gave a briefed account of Late Amnu Wangcha, who was the queen of Senua Village.

A souvenir-cum-biography of Late Amnu Wangcha was also released to mark the occasion.

The inaugural function ended with an exhibition match.

Sharma qualifies as WKF Kumite Coach

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Shihan S. Deben Sharma, the Technical Director of Arunachal Karate Do Association, has qualified as the World Karate Federation (WKF) Kumite Coach. The announcement was made during the 9th WKF World Karate Championship held in Jakarta, Indonesia from November 12 to 15.

Sharma is the first karate Coach from entire North East to become WKF certified Kumite Coach.

Meanwhile, Shihan Likha Tara, President, Arunachal Karate-Do Association (AKA) and all the members of AKA congratulated Sharma for his tremendous achievement.

Tukum loses in pre-quarterfinal

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Laa Tukum’s dream run in the Boys U-15 Singles and Doubles in the 29th Sub-Junior National Badminton Championship 2015 ended today.

Tukum went down fighting to Sarla of Uttar Pradesh 21-19, 15-21, 21-19 sets in pre-quarterfinal in U-15 Boys Single at Vishakapat-nam today.

The pair of Tukum and Akash Yadav also lost to K Prasanth and M Tharun of Telangana 21-18, 18-21, 21-23 sets, informed Arunachal State Badminton Association.

News Impact

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BJP accuses the Govt of being partial

in PDS, PMGSY payment

Rebia caught in controversy

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Loaded with allegations pertaining to clearance of Hill Transport Subsidy (HTS) and Pradhan Mantri Grameen Sadak Yojna (PMGSY) bills, the state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Joint Action Committee (JAC) headed by its Chairman Tame Phassang today fired fresh salvo against Nabam Tuki-led state government.

Addressing the media persons at Press Club today, Phassang alleged that Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has segregated the PMGSY contractors and is selectively giving payment to the contractors who are singing songs in his praises while sidelining those who are against him.

Phassang also claimed that the bill amounting to Rs 23 crore had been cleared in favour of Minister PHED and Disaster Management Takam Pario recently while at the same time many contractors were sidelined.

JAC Chairman further claimed that Chief Minister has released Rs 35 crores under Public Distribution System (PDS) HTS despite the matter being sub-judice in the court. Phassang further alleged that clearing of HTS bills for few selective contractors is with objective to abet horse-trading.

“Rs 61 crore is under process to be paid to the PDS contractors. I wonder how come government is paying the contractors despite matter being under sub-judice” Phassang added.

He informed that to protests against Tuki led government’s policy of segregation and misuse of power, JAC is staging mass peace rally which will start from Nirjuli and end at Banquet Hall on November 23. He appealed to the people to support JAC and its movement against the state government.

Alleging the government for being selective in payment, former Forest Corporation Vice Chairman Jabring Venia accused the government of not being fair to many genuine contractors.

In his address former MLA Lokam Tassar, who is also Chairman, Joint Action Committee Arunachal Pradesh (JACAP) demanded the police to book and arrest Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker Nabam Rebia, based on the alleged FIR filed by one lady alleging Rebia for making false promise to marry her. While making available the copies of press note and FIR copies purportedly filed by the lady, Tassar demanded that Speaker must be booked and arrested for his immoral act and physically abusing a lady.

The lady had already made these allegations at a press conference in Guwahati recently.

This daily, however, could not contact the lady or the Speaker for their comments.

Niti Aayog to continue 90:10 funding pattern

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Much to the delight of centre-dependent states for funds, particularly Arunachal Pradesh, the Niti Aayog has decided to continue the 90:10 funding pattern for eight Northeast states and three Himalayan states.

In its notification issued on October 28 last, the Union Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure stated the funding pattern for the Northeast state and three Himalayan states was decided based on the report of Sub-Group of Chief Ministers on rationalization of Centrally Sponsored Schemes.

Major centrally sponsored schemes such as Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, National Education Mission (including SSA, RMSA, RUSA, Teacher Training and Adult Education), Mid Day Meal Program, National Health Mission (AYUSH, Medical Education and RSBY/RSSY) and National Rural Drinking Water Programe etc. will remain unchanged in funding pattern. It also said that for Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna, instruction will be issued separately.

It is worth mentioning here that Chief Minister’s sub group report on rationalization of centrally sponsored scheme under the aegis of NITI Aayog which was constituted on March 9 last had strongly recommended 90:10 sharing pattern in core schemes for eight North East States. For optional schemes for North East, the sub-group recommended 80:20 Centre-state fund sharing pattern. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki is one of the members of the sub-group.

Engineering student dies in road mishap

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: In a tragic road accident, one engineering student identified as Natung Singhi (24) died when his motor cycle (Bajaj Avenger bearing registration number AR01H8636) met with an accident at Sood village on Yupia road around 9:30 PM on Tuesday, police said. According to police source, deceased and his brother Disi Singhi who is undergoing IRBn cadre training were coming from Borum village towards Itanagar when they met with an accident at Sood.

Late Natung Singhi succumbed to his injuries at Tomo Riba State Hospital Naharlagun, Police added.

Disi who sustained grievous injury was rushed to Heema Hospital here, police said. A case was registered with Naharlagun Police Station (case no 257/15 U/S 304a/ 279 IPC) and the investigation is on.

Late Natung, son of Harku Singhi was pursuing Bachelor of Engineering in Guwahati. He was from Attangrang Village under Seppa circle in East Kameng district. Meanwhile, brother of the deceased student lodged an FIR alleging foul play. The FIR alleges hit and run case leading to tragic death of Natung. The family also urged the police authority to unearth the truth behind the accident.

All Singhi Welfare Association deeply condoled the premature death of the young student. In its condolence message, association termed the death of Natung as irreparable loss to the society and the family members.

BJP demands surrender of the state Govt

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: The state BJP has reiterated its demand that the ruling Congress Government in the state should surrender paving way for new regime to take over.

Highlighting the present political situation in the state, the BJP in a press statement claimed that the long political stalemate in the rebel-plagued government has brought all developmental activities to a grinding halt.

“Boycotting of the CLP meeting convened on November 8 by the rebel MLAs and subsequent postponement of the CLP meeting have exposed that the Govt. is no more existent,” the party claimed.

Further, the long absence of the rebel MLAs from the state has totally paralyzed the state, the party said.

The party also criticized the AICC for maintaining a stoic silence over the present political rivalry within the Congress legislators in the state.

In the meantime, People’ Party of Arunachal (PPA) in a press statement said that the Leader of the Opposition should immediately call upon the Governor of the state to instruct the Chief Minister to prove his majority or step down owning moral responsibility.

“It is very unfortunate that the Tuki led Govt is heading the state in-spite of being reduced to a complete minority,” PPA secretary general Kaling Jerang said.

NSUI contributes fund towards baby Archim’s treatment

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) has contributed Rs.53,250 to Archim Kri for her medical expense, who is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in New Delhi.

The fund was raised through a charity programme launched on Children’s Day on November 14 at Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan here.

The six-year-old patient belongs to a very poor family and her parents were unable to bear the cost of their daughters’ treatment at Institute of Liver & Biliary Science, New Delhi which is estimated to cost Rs. 12 lakh, informed NSUI in a release.

The idea of the charity in aid of the patient was conceived by State NSUI vice president Jotam Toko Hannan, Longding district NSUI president Puman Wangsu and state NSUI general secretary Takar Rie.

The programme was inaugurated by Rajen Nani, general secretary, APCC , in-charge NSUI and programme implementation in presence of office bearers of NSUI, APYC, Seva Dal, Mahila Congress and APCC.

FIR on alleged fraudulent PDS payments

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Maya Dolo, Proprietor of M/s Maya Dolo, PDS Wholesale Nominee-cum-carriage Contractor in respect of Pakke-Kessang, East Kameng District has lodged a complaint in the Itanagar Police Station alleging irregularities and discrepancies in the payment of PDS Bills by the state government.

She alleges that Likha Maj who was empowered by her firm to perform and carry out contract works raised PDS carriage bill of Rs. 35,05,93,650 (Rupees Thirty Five Crores Five Lakhs Ninety Three Thousand Six Hundred Fifty) of which around Rs.10,51,78,095 was to be given to the firm. She further alleges that only Rs.3,50,59,365 (Rupees Three Crores Fifty Lakh Fifty Nine Thousand Three Hundred Sixty Five) amounting to ten percent as against 30% promised of the total cleared bill was given to her after the govt cleared the bill on Sept 31, this year. Dolo said Maj did not make the payments to her as the 60% of the total amounts were allegedly used to pay the political and bureaucratic establishments. She said that UCO bank, where the alleged transactions took place should be checked while adding the bank authorities should be directed not to make any payment against the aforesaid cheques, if the payment has not yet been made or if it has not been drawn by the recipients of the cheques.

This daily, however was unable to authenticate the allegations leveled in the FIR.

Orgs denounce abusive comments in social media

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Nabam Welfare Society (NWS) and Nabam Youth Association (NYA) have denounced the recent abusive and objectionable postings through social networking sites by some individuals using fake IDs with an ill intension to bring division among the people of Nabam clan.

They also objected to certain postings against Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and Speaker Nabam Rebia.

Some anti-social people with vested interests are posting highly objectionable comments on social networking sites with an ill intension to disturb the peace, unity and harmony among the clan members, said Nabam Epo, NWS chairman in a Press conference here today.

Every individual has the right to freedom of expression and opinion as granted by the Constitution, but at the same time, the opinions or comments must not hurt the sentiment and emotion of someone without any substance and established facts, said the NWS.

While condemning the act by those individuals in strongest term, the NWS cautioned them to refrain from such illegal activities. NWS and Nabam Youth Association (NYA) will not tolerate any attempt by any individual or forces to divide and disturb the peace, unity and age-old relationship among clan members, both the organization said, and warned those individuals of serious action as per customary law.

“We strongly endorse disposal of any differences among the family members through established system practiced by our forefathers since time immemorial,” the NWS chairman said and, called upon those persons who are posting these comments using bogus IDs to come over ground, if they had courage.

At the same time, both NWS and NYA urged the State Government as well as central agencies to contain the growing mis-use of social media by strengthening the cyber cell of the Police Department and deal with iron hand against those found misusing social networking sites.

Transparency over ‘Impact Management Plan’ questioned

Correspondent

RUKSIN, Nov 18: The East Siang unit of All Arunachal Section Divisional NF Railway Construction Loading & Unloading Shramik Union (AASDNFRCL&USU) has demanded early execution of Murkongselek-Pasighat Broad Gauge (BG) railway project and expedite the process for compensation to affected families.

Union president, Daniel Pada, in a press statement alleged that authority concerned is delaying the land compensation process even after cadastral survey and public hearing (1st phase) were completed few months back. He said that the affected families have expressed their unhappiness over delay in payment of compensation against their cropland acquisitioned for the proposed BG railway.

The Shramik (labor) union in a meeting held at Ruksin IB today reviewed the terms and conditions of standing rules for compensation against lands acquisitioned and other properties lost. Referring state government notification regarding ‘Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency Act, 2013’, the union demanded the authority for fixation of land value based on multiplicity factors. Raising question over “transparency” in the Social Impact Assessment of the proposed railway project, the labour union said that the affected people are not aware about the ‘Impact Management Plan’ formulated by the NF railway authority.

Later, the meeting resolved to move the state’s Chief Minister and higher ups of the NF Railway authority and place demands for early compensation and people friendly Impact Management Plan.

It is pertaining to mention that the ‘expert committee’ for verification of impact assessment study report on Murkongselek-Pasighat Broad Gauge (BG) railway during October this year examined Social Impact Assessment Study (SIAS) report prepared by a board constituted by East Siang district administration and accepted as they found the report suitable. The committee later suggested the NF Railway officials to submit 'Impact Management Plan' clearly describing its strategic plan & policy for mitigation of the loss and damages with the problems faced by the affected farmers of the project site.

Burden of Road Traffic Accidents in

Arunachal Pradesh

[ Mina Toko ]

World Health Organisation (WHO) records that every day over 3,400 people die on the world's roads and tens of millions of people are injured or disabled. Injuries and deaths due to road traffic accidents (RTAs) leaves huge burden on health and development and expected to be fifth leading cause of death by 2030 worldwide.

Statistic record of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH, GoI) shows that India has one of the highest numbers of RTAs globally. India faces five lakhs road accidents every year. About three lakhs persons are crippled and 1.5 lakh lose their lives annually in five lakh road accidents.

Considering the increasing burden of RTAs worldwide, it is very important to estimate the magnitude of the burden of RTAs in Arunachal Pradesh as a state but there is scarcity of information and studies to estimate the various levels of severity in RTAs.

Nevertheless, in some related studies it is identified that the land of dawn-lit mountains and home of orchids bear large burden of RTAs. In Arunachal Pradesh, Capital City (369) witnessed highest number of person killed and injured of RTAs followed by West Kameng District (364), Lohit (278), West Siang (209) and East Siang (179). According to the Road Safety Cell-Police Headquarter, Itanagar (RSC-PHQ) data, which classifies the cause of RTAs are: (i) 48 % of drivers are at fault/ driving errors (eg. over speed, use of mobile phone, diversion, quarrel, anxiety, sleeplessness, poor eyesight, driving by minors/ inexperienced, over taking at curves, overloaded passengers, direction error etc), (ii) 23% of accidents occur under the influence of alcohol, (iii) 15 % due to no signage & undulating road, vehicle defects are responsible for 13% of road accidents, (iv)7% of victims are at fault and (v) 10% of accidents occurs due to other reasons.

Road traffic accidents are increasing in most of the districts of Arunachal Pradesh. For instance, in the year 2010, RSC-PHQ recorded total number of 293 (fatal & non fatal) RTAs in Capital city and 308 cases in 2013. And the reasons for increase in RTAs are: (a) driving license are obtained easily, (b) lack of traffic education/ less traffic sensitive, (c) lack of awareness on hilly driving, (d) over speeding, (e) high consumption of alcohol, (f) lack of training to drivers, (g) traffic congestion (h) vulnerable and accident prone vehicles such as Motor cycles, Auto rickshaw, Trekker, Sumo running extremely liberated in the different routes of the state killing and injuring highest number of people in compare to other vehicles and (h) lack of police action due to shortage of manpower and logistics for which Arunachal Pradesh receives lowest of the lowest budget allocation as compare to other states in India. There is average penalties amounting Rs. 100/- and conviction by court is less than 1% in RTAs cases. In other word, the road traffic safety rules and regulations are slackly enforced. The existing data also highlights that with all the unvoiced and unseen blockage there has been continuous effort made and initiatives undertaken to prevent and reduce the burden of RTAs by RSC,PHQ and other concerned offices and organizations. District wise strict Motor Vehicle (MV) checking and Several numbers of awareness camp, workshop and training programme were conducted to impart traffic education to different institutions, people of different age group, and drivers of different category.

However, still there is rise in RTAs. RTAs are more prone in crowded and uphill districts of Arunachal Pradesh. There is a need to implement all the RTAs initiatives and Prevention activities firmly and effectively and create obligatory mass awareness on traffic education to make the denizens of the state traffic sensitive and to reduce the increasing burden of RTAs. It is also very important to implement the existing traffic safety rules and regulations in more systematic manner and concrete action need to be taken against traffic violators. Otherwise, it is to contemplate on the basis of existing studies that the increasing burden of RTAs in Arunachal Pradesh may be a leading contributor to cause of death, injuries and disability leaving social impact (grief, pain, suffering) and creating a major unresolved public health issue for the state when there is inadequate public health infrastructures in Arunachal Pradesh. (Mina Toko , M.Phil in Public Health ,JNU, New Delhi. email id: gminatoko@gmail.com)

APHPM&PB to establish cold

storage, collection centres

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Arunachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing & Processing Board (APHPM&PB) has decided to establish a multipurpose cold storage of 1000 MT capacity along with collection centres within the periphery of Capital Complex and some other selected areas of the state. The decision was taken in the Board’s meeting held under the chairmanship of its Chairman Kipa Niya in Naharlagun today.

The meeting also resolved to extend transportation subsidy to boost up the morale of the farmers. In this regard, the meeting decided to seek Rs.50 crore to 100 crore from the State Govt. as one time corpus fund under APHPM&PB for creation of required marketing infrastructure/facilities for the horticultural produces of the State.

Addressing the meeting APHPM&PB Chairman Niya stressed the need of cold storage, collection centre, packaging units etc for marketing of horticulture produces. He said that the Board was unable to market the huge horticultural produces due to lack of necessary infrastructures as horticulture procures are highly perishable.

The Board has been proposing to take up key projects like collection centre, cold storage, packaging units etc. but the non receipt of corpus fund from the State Govt. inspite of repeated requests made the Board totally handicapped, Niya said.

“Without financial support from the State Govt. it is impossible for the Board to take up such important projects,” he said.

Hage Khoda, Vice Chairman, APHPM&PB cum Commissioner Horticulture opined that the Board needs corpus fund amounting to Rs.50 crore to 100 crore to create the necessary infrastructure within the Capital Complex and other parts of the State.

T. Tamut, Joint Director of Agriculture and RD Thungon, Joint Registrar Cooperative Society-cum-Member, APHPM&PB also supported the views of the Commissioner horticulture by speaking in the same line. They felt that marketing sector in the horticulture department is one of important sources of employment generation.

Tage Tatung, Managing Director, APHPM&PB highlighted the progress, achievement and problem being faced by the Board.

Dego Ronya, Horticulture Marketing Officer suggested for formulating proper marketing strategies since marketing sector is one of the most important parts of the Department.

Job Mela helps in building careers of youths: ZPC

PASIGHAT, Nov 18: Job Mela will help in building careers of many youths, said East Siang ZPC Kaling Dai while inaugurating the 3rd Job Mela in the DIC office complex here today. Altogether 460 candidates were selected by 10 VTPs for training during the job mela.

Addressing the aspiring youths, Dai said it was one of the best flagship programs of the Chief Minister Nabam Tuki led state Govt to provide better life and job security to the unemployed youths. This has to be taken seriously by the youths with missionary zeal to equip them to face the challenges of life, he said.

So far, more than thirty three thousand youths have been absorbed in private sectors, he said adding Chief Minister Tuki is personally taking interest keeping track of all the development.

Dy Director (Skill Development) K. Sharma informed about the modalities of selection and placement in jobs. Hard works and dedication are the key to success, he said adding candidates should select the trade of their choice and should be committed.

Mahtsam Jamoh, DDI informed that the selected candidates will be sent to various VTPs and all expenditures like journey, food and lodging will be borne by the government.

ADTH M Pertin and EO M Megu also spoke on the occasion. DIPRO

ICSI workshop exhibits new approach in education process

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: International Chamber for Service Industry (ICSI) with support of the Education department has organized a special workshop cum training on motivation talks and career choice for all undergraduate and graduate students of the state at Vivekananda Hall here yesterday.

Addressing the gathering as resource person on the theme “Enlightening Minds to Unleash Power Within”, Director General of ICSI, Dr. Gulshan Sharma gave a new dimension in imparting education which should be stimulating towards extracting talent of every child. He called upon the students to improve their personality and communication, computer and life management skills through concept of “Finishing School” under RUSA. Education should be directly linked with the employment and entrepreneurship of the students, he added. Sharma also emphasized on empowering teachers through latest information technology and exposure visit.

Lauding Sharma for his motivational talks and innovative idea in imparting education, Marnya Ete, Secretary Education, hoped that the ICSI will conduct more such workshops in all districts of the state for benefit of youths and to channelize youth energy in positive direction.

Among others, Director, Secondary Education, Dy. Director Elementary Education, OSD, Higher Education were present on the occasion.

ANSU observes 24th death anniversary of Tallang-Hira

ATSU wins volleyball competition

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: All Tali Students’ Union (ATSU) beat All Yachuli Students’ Union (AYSU) in the final to win the Volleyball competition organized by All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU) to mark the 24th death anniversary of Tallang-Hira.

The final match was played coinciding with the death anniversary of Tallang-Hira at ANSU office premises here today.

A total of 17 teams participated in the volleyball tournament which was started on November 17.

ANSU president Byabang Joram gave away prizes to winner and runners up teams. The winning team was awarded cash prize of Rs 20,000 with trophy and the runners up team was given Rs 10,000 with trophy.

Students from various corners of Nyishi inhabitant areas, members of Nyishi Elite Society, including Tarh Tabin, General Secretary, Nido Savita, General Secretary, Nyishi Nyem Acham, Techi Doni, Assistant General Secretary, AAPSU, former ANSU leaders, parents and relatives of both Tallang and Hira attended the programme.

ITBP leads Army in Women’s Empowerment

AALO, Nov.18: The ITBP has already inducted combative lady officer in the Veterinary Cadre of the Force, which is tasked for an extremely challenging role in providing veterinary cover and maintaining logistic support at Border Out Posts situated at altitudes ranging from 9000 to 19000 feet above mean sea level under inhospitable sub-zero conditions.

Till date four lady officers have been commissioned as Assistant Commandants since 2011 onwards, and they have given a sterling account of professionalism, grit determination in serving in these tough locations, commanding the AT troops in Border Guarding (BG) units, that employ ponies/mules/yaks to keep the logistics alive to sustain BOPs with supply of arms, ammunitions, rations and clothing. AT Ponies are also used for long and short range patrols.

ITBP had taken a pragmatic decision in 2011 to commission Lady Veterinary Officers in this strategic cadre after much thought.

All the lady VO of ITBP have been posted to border guarding units in high-altitude terrain and their morale is so high that no one has requested for a plain/peace posting. In fact they had been given choice and all women VOs opted for Border Units. ITBP is the first Force of India to train lady VOs in the prestigious Young Officers-Dog Handling and Management Course, that teaches them to deploy Explosive Detection, Tracker, Infantry Patrol and Patrol Explosive Detection Dogs in Counter-Insurgency and Anti-Sabotage Checks during internal security duties.

In addition to this, they are also performing duties of multi-role officers by taking over additional command roles in unit like Adjutant, Quarter Master, Intelligence Officer.

The lady veterinary officers of ITBP are fully combatised and trained not only to provide veterinary cover, but also trained in handling of sophisticated automatic weapons, battle-craft, field craft, rock-climbing, man-material management, supply chain logistics and command of the AT elements during peace and war. After successful induction of women in the tough Vet Cadre, the DG ITBP has set in motion formalities to induct 30% women in the General Duty Cadre of ITBP. DIPRO

Trainings on quality assurance standard and immunization

ITANAGAR, Nov 18: Three days Internal Assessor Training on National Quality Assurance standard is being conducted at Arunachal State Hospital, Naharlagun from today. The training, being organized by Arunachal State Health Society, aims to equip technical knowledge of measurement system for quality Assurance and Assessment protocol.

Addressing the training MD (NHM) P N Thungon said that implementing the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in hospital will provide an opportunity to sensitize public towards cleanliness.

While exhorting the trainees to learn as much from the training, he further said that all should ensure that assessment is done properly and meet the criterion set for Kayakalp award. He emphasized on peer and self assessment to provide better health facility.

Resources person Dr Nikhil Prakash, senior consultant health system resources center giving overview of National Quality Assurance said quality is the core and most important aspect of service being rendered at any health facility.

Consultant Dr Deepika highlighted on the measurement system for quality assurance and assessment protocol.

Meanwhile, the second session of training on routine immunization for medical officers of Arunachal Pradesh under IMR reduction program started at seminar hall of Directorate of Health Services, Naharlagun today.

Dr Emi Rumi Jt.DHS (FW) while inaugurating the program exhorted the participants from all districts of Arunachal Pradesh to sincerely undergo the training and clear all confusions regarding routine immunization as they will be the key person as well as best coordinator in the CHC/PHC for planning and implementation of immunization to pregnant women and children of their respective areas. He also highlighted the poor status of full immunization of the state while adding that role of medical officers as well as communities are very vital for successful immunization process. OSD IMR Dr TTaloh also spoke at the event.

---- Editorial ----

An important step towards better future

The Delhi government today took an important decision to table Jan Lokpal bill in the ongoing winter session of Delhi Assembly. This was approved at a cabinet meeting chaired by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. It is well known to everyone that Kejriwal came to power with the promise of introducing Lokpall bill. The delay in introduction of bill has been widely criticized by the opposition parties. If passed, the Jan Lokpal Bill will immensely help the fight against corruption.

Chief Minister's Office (CMO) will come under the purview of this bill. The investigation by Lokpal should be completed within six months and trials be conducted in a time-bound manner, will be some of the mandatory clauses of the Bill. Delhi government should be lauded for having courage to introduce this bill. Chief Minister himself will be under the scanner of Lokpal. Other states should learn a lesson from Delhi government and introduce Jan Lokpal bill as soon as possible. Corruption is one of the most serious issues which pose serious threat to the development of any state. Also its time government of India speeds up the process to implement Lokpal bill. Modi government had promised to bring in strong Lokpal bill to fight corruption. But they have gone silent over this issue. A Parliamentary panel in April this year slammed the government over non-implementation of Lokpal and Whistleblowers Protection Act and asked it to take necessary action for their quick operationalization. Government of India should not waste any more time and implement Lokpal bill at the earliest. For now let us hope that Jan Lokpal Bill gets passed at the earliest and fight against corruption be started from national capital.

___________________

---- Readers Forum ----

Think twice before calling bandh

Dear Editor,

Through the column of your esteemed daily I would like to bring attention to my fellow citizens that Bandh is not a solution rather it invites more problems. Bandh hampers the normal life causing huge loss to govt. exchequer. Since many years, Bandh has become a fashion in Arunachal Pradesh. According to an Itanagar based NGO, Capital complex has experienced more than 55 Bandhs since 2009 causing loss of rupees 3431crores which may rise if it include the bandhs in various districts of Arunachal Pradesh. The Arunachal Government informed the high court that the state suffered a loss of Rupees 263 cores due to bandhs during 2014-2015. For every issues, organizations calls bandh. Though their demand may be fulfilled if they went for bandh but it causes huge loss to the state exchequer which results in poor development of the state. Rupees 3431 crore is not a small amount for Arunachal where there is very less source of income. It could have been used in a good cause.

At the same time, the Supreme Court has already declared bandh as illegal in 1998 but organizations and unions still organize bandhs. They call it ‘Hartal’ which is actually supposed to be a powerful form of civil disobedience but it ends up afflicting the common people. I want to ask my fellow citizens, is bandh justified? Isn’t it illegal to observe bandhs? Is it a right way of seeking justice?

Many unions and organizations claim that to call a strike is their fundamental right. I want to ask, if to observe bandh is their fundamental right then common man have right to free movement guaranteed by Indian Constitution. Think about the roadside vendor who just makes enough money to have his daily bread. Think about the cab driver, he might not be able to feed his family because bandh did not allow him to work. Think by keeping yourself in their place before calling bandh.

I don’t consider bandh as a means of protest. Any activity that disrupts normal life should not be encouraged and strong action must be taken. I urged them to go for alternative way of protest. Constitution of India has granted various other ways to protest against any machinery which is even legal. At the same time, I appreciate the reasons for calling bandh but the way of protest must be changed. It should not hamper the common man as well as it should not be in the cause of Gross Sate Domestic Product. The bandh callers claim that they are doing such things for the welfare of common man but I want to state that if they really want welfare of the common man then go for alternative way (e.g. hunger strike), not the bandh. Think twice or even thrice before calling bandh. Be a good leader. A good leader never let his followers suffer.

Yours,

Tashi Dorjee Bapu

RGU, Doimukh

Please restart chopper service to Vijaynagar

Dear Editor,

Through the column of your esteemed daily I would like to make following request for the consideration of Chief Secretary. We the public of Vijaynagar Circle appeals Chief Secretary to kindly ensure resumption of Helicopter Service to Vijayanagar at the earliest.

We understand that chopper service was suspended during the monsoon season to avoid further disasters. Now as the rainy season is long gone and there is no motorable road connection from Vijaynagar to Miao, people is suffering a lot. We request the concerned authority to remember the people of border villages. It is especially painful to see elderly people trudging the hostile road. Also the sick people are put in desperation many a times. The road works are seen being done here and there. However, according to the travelers the road is not in sight anytime near.

The story of Miao-Vijaynagar Road (or M.V. Road) is a phenomenal one. It was inaugurated by Lt Governor AA Raja in the year 1975. His Excellency stormed the M.V Road with his convoy of 12 jeeps. It was an 'outlandish' sight to gaze for the people of Vijaynagar. However the road died as the log bridges returned to where they came from. After many decades, the Deputy Commissioner Changlang, S B Deepak Kumar created sensation as he walked the 157 Km terrain of MV Road. Right after him, His Excellency former Governor JJ Singh took keen interest in Vijaynagar. He fetched funds and promised that he would travel to Vijaynagar by his jeep! Unfortunately, this too failed. Then came the Union Minister Jairam Ramesh. He laid the foundation stone of MV road at Miao market for all to behold. It was in Feb 2013. However, the truth is that the public of Vijaynagar Circle are still walking on foot. As usual the road works are seen being done at isolated patches. However the public is anxiously waiting to see if the contractors will deliver the road on time.

Since the road is not in sight yet, we request once again, the CS to resume helicopter service to Vijaynagar as it is the lifeline for the isolated circle of Arunachal Pradesh.

Yours,

Aphu A Ngwazah

South Miao

Check documents while making Aadhar enrollment

Dear editor,

Through your esteemed daily, I would like to bring it to the knowledge of the concerned department regarding adhar card registration process as seen in Likabali. Few questions arise in this regard - (1) it should be mandatory to produce identity card/ proof documents of an individual before enrollment. (2) How can department concerned be sure that they are not enrolling illegal migrants like Bangladeshi etc in the adhar (bio metric) enrollment.

At Likabali it is seen that a lot of non Arunachalees and Arunachalee looking persons are not asked for any documents for enrollment. If so a day will come when all the illegal migrants will get themselves enrolled in the adhar (bio metric) registration in Arunachal Pradesh and will become proud citizen of India.

Yours,

Rickar Taipodia

Likabali

Postponed the exam

Dear Editor,

Recently Department of Elementary Education has notified conduction of APTET exam 2015. The written exam will be held on 20th December and declaration of result will be done on 21st December.

Some of our SSA teachers have requested for postponing the exam of TGT/PRT for few more months. But exam date has been declared, therefore, we also appeal to the new Director of Elementary Education to kindly extend the date of submission of application for the TGT/PRT exam till January 2016, if department can’t postpone the said exam.

There will be no harm if department extends the time of submission of application for the said exam and delay it for 2-3 moths, as academic session of this year is already over. All the new teachers will be posted or will join duty only in the next session i.e 2016.

All we want is to appear in the said exam. Therefore we SSA B.ED/D.LE.ED holder teachers appeal to the new director to look into the matter and do the needful.

Yours,

Bage Taram

Tage Oppo

Techi Dumto