nov16 26

November 26

2011

2016

Pema reiterates Govt. commitment for inclusive development

'Pakke Darshan: Festival of Valleys'

PAKKE KESSANG, Nov 25: Chief Minister Pema Khandu has assured the people of the commitment of his government for inclusive development and reaching the unreached at the remotest of places.

Attending the first ever 'Pakke Darshan: Festival of Valleys' at the picturesque Pakke Kessang on Friday to commemorate 50 years of Pakke Kessang administrative division in East Kameng district, Khandu said he has been specifically advised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take along every tribe and section of the society in the path of overall development. He assured that Pakke Kessang and East Kameng district will have its due share of developmental projects and emerge as one of the most sought after tourist destination of the state.

Pakke Kessang is one of the less explored destinations in the state comprising of five valleys - namely Pakke Valley, Papu Valley, Passa Valley, Seijosa Valley and Dissing-Passo Valley. Lauding the leaders and intellectuals of Pakke Valley for conceptualizing the festival, Khandu asserted that the initiative would give a fillip to the state's effort to attract tourists from across the country. Calling for unity in diversity, the Chief Minister assured that the next budget will be a participatory one that will imbibe suggestions and inputs from every sector of the society.

"I will invite all community based organizations for their inputs so that they can highlight their needs which we will incorporate in the budget," he declared.

Khandu while admitting financial hurdles faced by the state said that government had recently conducted the State Development Council (SDC) meeting finalizing allocation of funds for all the 56 government departments for this financial year.

Foreseeing a bright future for the valleys and East Kameng, Khandu appealed people to learn to be people friendly especially with tourists.

He informed that due to active persuasion of 11th Seppa West assembly constituency Mama Natung, soon the district will have a prestigious Rama Krishna Mission School, which will make a huge impact in the education scenario in the district.

Emphasizing elders and leaders to give special attention towards youths and students, who would be holding the reigns of the state in the coming days, Khandu congratulated the newly elected president of All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) Hawa Bagang, who was present on the occasion. He urged Bagang to lead the apex students' body of the state with sincerity, honesty and dignity and bring back the glory of the Union. In the just concluded AAPSU election Hawa Bagang and Tobom Dai has been elected as president and general secretary of AAPSU. While Bagang hails from Chyangtajo in East Kameng district, Tobom Dai belongs to Pasighat, East Siang district.

Responding to a memorandum submitted by local legislator and Principal Adviser to CM, Kameng Dolo, Khandu said all the demands are genuine and the state government will look into the issues positively.

The demands included infrastructure for the PWD division, the foundation stone of which was laid by the Chief Minister on the day, road connecting Itanagar with Seijosa via Taposo and declaration of Pakke Kessang district by bifurcating East Kameng district.

Khandu also assured a fund of Rs 1 crore for development of a football ground at Pakke Kessang.

The inaugural function of the three-day festival (Nov 24 to 26) was also attended by PHE Minister Takam Pario, Parliamentary Secretaries Mama Natung, Tapuk Taku and Karya Bagang and other officials of the district administration besides Arunachal Press Club President Chopa Cheda, East Kameng Socio-Cultural Society President Safar Pao and others.

Woes of tea growers continue after note ban

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: The difficulties being faced by the Agro-based industries and tea growers across the state in paying daily wage of the labourers after demonetization are reportedly far from over, despite the Finance Commissioner directives to deputy commissioners of affected districts to issue cheques to the agro-based industries and tea growers to facilitate labour payement.

Sources from Pasighat informed this daily that situation in Pasighat is still simmering as the tea growers and planters are unable to pay their labourers over the last two weeks following the restriction on cash withdrawal from the banks making the situation precarious. It is said that Commissioner Finance Ashish Kundra had given direction to all DCs to issue cheque to the tea growers considering the situation on ground and also asked the district administration to write to SBI for payment.

"Situation in East Siang is yet to be improved, the tea grower's representatives repeatedly apprised me to do something but I am helpless" said Bani Lego, EAC who is a DC in-charge Pasighat. Lego further informed that he did not receive any letter from the Commissioner Finance. Moreover, it is said that DC in-charge is not empowered to take any call on financial matter. The current DC is reportedly on leave.

"We are facing same situation ever since demonetisation of old currency notes by the government. There is no sign of improvement either" said Nyodak Yonggam, a small tea grower in East Siang district.

'As of now situation here is quite normal as I am disbursing payment on cheque, however situation may grim if the crisis continues' informed Ujjal Namchoom a tea grower in Namsai.

Many districts such as Namsai, West Siang, Upper Siang, Changlang and Tirap are reportedly facing similar problem ever since the bank ran out of cash and the cash withdrawal has been restricted.

It is said that most of the labourers do not have bank account. The tea growers pay wages weekly or fortnightly to labourers in cash but with Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes being scrapped and banks rationing withdrawals, the employers are finding it difficult to arrange cash for paying wages.

Earlier, they wrote a letter to the Commissioner Finance informing the grim situation and seeking permission on cash withdrawal limit for weekly and forth nightly payment of labourers engaged in Agro-base Industries in the state. The tea growers and Agro-based industries also cautioned the government that crisis in dispensation of labourer wages would trigger unrest among the labourers and could create law and order problem.

Increase ATM cash withdrawal limit, demands APCC

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has demanded to improve the monetary transaction processes in the banks and post offices by increasing the numbers of ATMs and ATM withdrawal limit from Rs.2500 to Rs.5000.

Narrating the hardships faced by the people post demonetization, in a party meeting here on Friday, APCC President Padi Richo urged the bankers to deliver services with utmost sincerity and dedication while dispensing cash and receiving the deposits from the poor people, who do not have bank accounts. He appealed to the bankers, post masters, DCs, SPs etc to properly guide and help the aged, women and differently abled persons so that they do not face any problem.

Stating that demonetization has adversely affected wedding plans of poor people and patients, the APCC also demanded that there should not be any cap on cash withdrawal from individual bank accounts.

Informing that the opposition parties called for Bharat Bandh on November 28 against the demonetization drive by the Modi Government, Richo appealed to the party leaders, workers, well- wishers, senior citizens, govt. employees, business communities, labour unions, handicapped societies, Ex-Servicemen and common masses, who have been the worst sufferer of demonetization, to extend support to the bandh call organized by APCC at Tennis Court, Indira Gandhi Park, Itanagar from 9 am onwards.

The meeting also decided to organize "Aakrosh Divas" on November 28 at State Capital Itanagar and in all the districts, blocks as a part of Bharat Bandh.

The meeting unanimously endorsed the APCC president to follow the court case/litigation regarding "illegal" merger of 43 MLAs from INC to PPA which is sub-judice in the High Court.

The meeting was attended by PCC office bearers, members of various frontal organizations, Panchayat and Municipal leaders, party men and women.

AYO reiterates demands, declares 12-hr capital bandh

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: In protesting against alleged lackadaisical attitude of the Govt towards its charter of demands, Arunachal Youth Organisation (AYO) on Friday declared 12 hours Capital bandh on November 28, 2016.

Addressing the press conference here, AYO General Secretary Kaling Tasing informed that repeated representations have been submitted to the state government on various issues, however the state government paid no heed to their demands. " We have been repeatedly submitting representations to the Chief Minister and Chief Secretary on our nine points charter of demand, but the government is adamant and shows no interest to look into it" alleged Kaling Tasing.

AYO charters of demands included continuation of Governor's office of memorandum order on officiating, functional and out of turns promotion, initiation of CBI enquiry into infamous Multi-crore PDS scam and abduction drama of SIC chief M J Chauhan at Tipi, eviction drive against illegally encroached government quarters within Capital and district headquarters, appointment of Chairman/Vice Chairman from among the elected legislators, early construction of Green Field Airport, revocation of district based entrepreneurship Act, revocation of Mon and Patkai Autonomous Councils and revelation of late CM Kalikho Pul's diary to public etc.

On discontinuation of Governor's office of memorandum order on functional, officiating and out of turn promotion issue, AYO termed the current system as root cause of corruption. The organisation also demanded the state government to recommend for CBI inquiry on infamous multi-crore PDS scam terming that Arunachal becomes land of scams. AYO claimed that SIC chief was corrupt officer and despite being aware of his misconduct, corruption he was assigned to take charge of SIC chief to investigate PDS scam by then Chief Minister Late Dorjee Khandu.

On appointment of Chairman the organisation has strong reservation that chairman and vice chairman posts should be given to elected legislators to avoid unnecessary burden on state exchequer. It demanded the government to stop what it terms, 'pick and choose and political favouritism' in appointment to the chairman posts.

Arguing that move for creation of Mon and Patkai autonomous council will have far reaching impact on principle of Unity and Diversity and Pan Arunachal concept, the organisation demanded for immediate recall of the move to imbibe one Arunachal principle among the people.

ACCESS Health to work with state Govt to improve health care service

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: ACCESS Health International Inc. on Friday agreed to work with the State Government to improve the quality of healthcare services in Arunachal Pradesh.

The agreement was reached after a meeting held under the chairmanship of Health and Family Welfare Minister Jomde Kena along with the team members of ACCESS Health International here on Friday. The meeting was a follow up of the minister's meeting with the Country Director of the organization at New Delhi on October 6.

ACCESS Health International will partner with the state government on medium to long term basis for improving the building blocks of health system of the state, including adaptation of good practices of other states and countries with similar environment, according to an official release.

Kena gave a detailed on the health scenario of the state and invited the team from ACCESS Health to engage with the state Government in strengthening of the health systems.

Various health issues of the state accessibility, affordability, universal health insurance, data discrepancies, community engagement, PPP, primary health care systems, lifestyle diseases, quality assurance programme, drugs & diagnostics management system, social determinants of health and others were discussed during the meet. Mission Director (NHM) P N Thungon requested the team to initially focus on some key areas, which included proper data management, impact /evaluation studies, primary health care with focus on innovations like Mobile Medical Unit services in remote and in accessible areas to reach the unreached and for supplementing the activities of NHM in various components in a time bound manner.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Anuradha Katyal and Rohini Kalvakuntla from ACCESS Health and the state team included Dr. D.Bagra (OSD to Minister Health & FW) and Dr.R Dodum (State Nodal Officer for engagement with ACCESS Health).

Govt. to grant 10 Crs for infrastructure development of JNC: Jamoh

PASIGHAT, Nov 25: Parliamentary Secretary (Agri) Tatung Jamoh said that the Pema Khandu led state government would sanction Rs 10 Crs for infrastructural development of the Jawaharlal Nehru College (JNC). Once the matter is cleared by the Cabinet sub-committee, works will start soon, he added. Jamoh said this while addressing the students at the inaugural ceremony of the Golden Jubilee College Day celebration of JNC Pasighat here on Friday. JNC has completed 50 years of its vibrant academic voyage, witnessing spectacular achievements, but you have to aspire to do more with what you are today, he said. He also asked the students to build self-confident through hard work to successfully face the challenges in their life.

To become productive citizens and serve the society in different fields, the students need to acquire latest knowledge through rigorous academic process duly embedded with value education and skill orientation in their respective disciplines.

They should take responsibilities to make the society drugs-free and spread the message of drug de-addiction everywhere, be it home, school or workplace and aware the people to get rid of this menace and elimination of it from the society. Total personality development of students is the hallmark of an effective education system, Jamoh said.

Saying that Annual Day celebration provides the students an opportunity to show their talents in different fields, Jamoh encouraged students to take part in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities for their overall development.

Earlier, ZPC Kaling Dai in his brief speech recalled the early days and spoke about the ever-increasing roles of students in society building process. They must act as protectors of the name and fame of the prestigious institution.

Study is the main occupation of students but they can engage themselves in sports and games, debates, cleanliness drive, literary activities etc and also in various social works setting example for the coming generation to follow, stated Dai.

Principal Dr. Tayek Talom delivered few pieces of advice saying that life has become very competitive and they need to amend their accustomed traditional habits so to find a way over the existing current times.

General Secretary, JNCSU Isaac Ejing placed a memorandum before the Parliamentary Secretary (Agriculture)m which included, widening of road from lower campus to upper campus, girls and boys common room, renovation of steps leading to upper campus, construction of boundary wall and adequate laboratory equipment and other items.

Mega dance and traditional dance and various sports activities were the other highlight of the day. DIPRO

4th commemorative lecture on Christop Von Furer Haimendorf held at RGU

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: The 4th commemorative lecture of Christop Von Furer Haimendorf was conducted at the Mini-Auditorium of Rajiv Gandhi University under the chairmanship of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Tamo Mibang.

Speaking on the topic 'Anthropology in Modern Society', HoD, department of Anthropology, University of Delhi Prof. Vinay Kumar Srivastava spoke at length about Haimendorf's contribution in the field of visual anthropology.

Delving on the crisis and dilemma of anthropology in India and what Indian anthropologists need to do, he said that anthropologist has a role to provide global information and thinking skills critical to succeeding in the 21st century in business, research, teaching, advocacy, and public service.

"Anthropologist never aims for short term positive change they always encourage and strive for long term positive change, promoting culturally appropriate and environmentally sustainable adaptations acceptable to people. Anthropologist does that through long-term ethnographic fieldwork to see the world from the native's point of view," he said.

He also spoke about how anthropological knowledge can provide approach to understand cultural difference which is essential to get along in this planet.

Also speaking, VC Prof. Mibang, VC RGU addressed the importance of anthropological knowledge in the contemporary world.

The lecture was attended by members from Directorate of research, large number of faculties' members and administrative staffs from RGU along with research scholars and students of RGU.

Kena calls for effective implementation of PC&PNDT Act

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: Health and Family Welfare Minister Jomde Kena emphasized the implementation of PC&PNDT Act effectively in the state to prevent female foeticide.

Saying that female foeticide had a serious impact on the society, Kena urged all the DMOs to register all ultrasound machines in their respective districts and conduct awareness programme on female foeticide in coordination with district administrations.

The health Minister, who chaired a one-day state level review meeting and capacity building on pre-conception and pre natal diagnostic techniques (prohibition of sex selection) Act, 1994 at Banquet Hall here on Friday, stressed on convergence with various line departments for effective implementation of PC&PNDT Act. He called for promoting "beti bachao beti padhao."

Parliamentary Secretary (WRD) Gum Tayeng advocated for empowering women and giving better life to girl child.

Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSWC) Chairperson Mitali Tingkhatra, put her concerned, that though there was no any form of discrimination on the basis of sex but because of prevailing polygamy practice and deep rooted prejudice for preference of male child, very often man leave their women and remarry encouraging the polygamy. We need to change the mindset of people by motivating them, she said.

Earlier, Director Family Welfare Dr M. Lego said that the main purpose of this Act is to prevent misuse of medical technology for the purpose of illegal gender biased selection.

Mission Director P.N Thungon also spoke on the occasion.

NO (PC&PNDT) briefed on PC&PNDT Act implementation in the state.

Meanwhile, the state level orientation workshop on Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyaan (PMSMA) was also conducted, which was attended by all District Medical Officers and District RCH Officers.

The workshop was chaired by Dr. Lego, wherein technicality of implementation of PMSMA was delivered by Dr Tana Natung, Nodal Officer, Maternal & Child Health, NHM.

State Level Science Exhibition: Roopland Public School, West Kameng secures first position

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: Divya Darshan Mishra of Roopland Public School, West Kameng secured the first position in the State Level Science Exhibition, 2016 on the topic "Science, Technology and Mathematics for Nation Building" held at Govt. Hr. Sec. School, auditorium here on Friday.

Ms Kaniya Jayan of VKV Chimpu, Itanagar and Master Pritam Choudhary of VK Public School, Daporijo, bagged the second and third positions respectively.

Altogether, 26 students from various districts of Arunachal Pradesh participated in the exhibition.

Special Secretary (Education) Mitali Namchoom, who attended the programme, expressed her happiness on the performance of all the participants and encouraged and inspired all the students to do better in the days to come.

She advised the teachers, especially the Science Teachers to give more emphasis on improvement of models and projects in an impressive way to enhance the learning of science in a better way to shape and mould the future of children for participation in the National level.

She also advised the participating children to be sincere and dedicated in their studies so that they compete with other students of the country.

Director of Secondary Education Gania Leij, who chaired the programme, advised the students to participate in such programmes in future too.

While encouraging the students, he said, "Winning a prize does not matter much, but participation matters a lot." He requested all the teachers of the State to give stress on learning of science and mathematics and guide the children for their bright future. He requested both teachers and students to participate in such competitions in befitting manner. Leij said, he was happy to see participation of more students from Govt. Schools this time.

Marken Kadu, DDSE (S&M) and T Mossang, DDSE were present and spoke on the occasion.

Chalo Loku celebrated at Itanagar

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: The Chalo Loku, the most popular festival of the Noctes of Tirap district was celebrated here on Friday with various programmes.

All the members of the community, mostly government employees and students residing in and around the state capital and guests from all walks of life enthusiastically partook in the day-long celebrations.

Longding-Pumao MLA and Parliamentary Secretary Thangwang Wangham while participating in celebration urged the people to preserve their rich traditional culture and said that people should be deeply rooted to their traditions and carry forward their rich legacies for the posterity.

President of Itanagar Chalo Loku celebration committee Samluk Wangpan threw light on the significance of Chalo Loku and said that the word Chalo Loku derived from 3 words; Chha meaning paddy, Lo meaning season and Loku meaning festival thus translating itself as 'harvest festival.' He passionately appealed to the participants, especially the youth to jealously safeguard their rich traditional culture adding that culture was their identity.

The President opined that the Noctes should feel proud of their rich and varied traditional culture which had been handed down to them by their Nocte ancestors.

The young participants from different schools and colleges enthralled the huge gathering with their attractive and foot-tapping dance performances.

Cultural programmes and community feast marked the 30th Chalo Loku celebrations. ZPM Kapu Block Chawang Lowang also participated in the celebrations. DIPR

Gao appeals party workers to further the vision of PM Modi

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: Arunachal Pradesh BJP President, Tapir Gao has appealed to the party karyakartas to work with sincerity to further the vision and dream of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Gao, who is currently on a tour of four districts said this while addressing a state executive meeting held at Daporijo on Thursday last.

He urged them to imbibe the ideology and values of BJP and said it was the duty of every BJP karyakarta to inform the people at grassroots level about the various pro-poor developmental policies and schemes of the Modi government so that they benefit from these initiatives. He also informed the gathering about the various schemes and programmes launched by Modi government for helping the poor people in line with the Antyodaya principle of the party.

Many senior leaders, legislators and state office bearers of state BJP including, former Minister, Talo Mugli, state BJP Former President, Tapen Siga, MLAs, Tamar Murtem and Paknga Bage along with state BJP General Secretary, B R Waghe and state BJP spokesperson, Tani Loffa attended the meeting.

Commemorative lecture to observe constitution day organized

ROING, Nov 25: A commemorative lecture was organised at the Government Model Degree College, Jemi Notko here to observe Constitution Day, in order to create awareness among the students on Friday.

Speaking of different facets of the Indian constitution, Principal Monshi Tayeng urged the participants to make meaningful contributions to solidify the democratic, socialistic and secular fabric of Indian political system. He said that as citizens of India, we must be proud of our constitution which synthesizes the liberal-democratic as well as socialistic values for the accomplishment of individual freedom and social justice. He also urged the audience to maintain the spirit of brotherhood transcending all the barriers to achieve an inclusive society.

Highlighting the significance of Indian Constitution, Associate Professor and Coordinator of the programme Dr JK Pattnaik called upon the participants to imbibe the cherished values of our freedom fighters and adopt the principles enshrined in the preamble of our constitution to usher an era of inclusive development. He opined that the state alone cannot ensure equity, justice and empowerment; rather the civil society through active citizenry can pave way for fairness, dignity and transparency in the system.

Dwelling at length upon the glaring success of parliamentary democracy and social inclusion paradigm in India, he cited various constitutional measures available to protect the rights of the scheduled tribes, scheduled castes, other backward classes and minorities in the country.

Tracing the evolution of Indian constitution, Assistant Professor Department of Economics Makyem Ngupok explained the cardinal principles of parliamentary democracy in India. Students also spoke on the occasion.

Traffic Advisory

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: Vehicular traffic on road from Panchali to Lobi would remain closed due to re-carpeting works on the road on November 26 and 27 from 6 am to 6 pm, according to a notification issued by Capital Complex Deputy Commissioner. DIPRO

Minor girl dies, another injured in fire mishap

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: A minor girl died and another seriously injured in a fire mishap that broke out at Abotani Colony here in the wee hours today.

The fire which broke out at around 1.55 am claimed a minor girl and devoured household properties worth lakhs of rupees including local ornaments and important papers of the house owner. Dari Rupa, wife of house owner Dari Kanu, who received serious injuries in the fire mishap, is undergoing treatment at the R K Mission Hospital. Almost all the household properties were destroyed in the mishap before the fire tender reached the spot and doused the fire. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.

Meanwhile, the Abotani Colony Welfare Committee has appealed to the Govt to provide sufficient relief assistance for rehabilitation of the fire victims.

Work as team for development, says Ering

ROING, Nov 25: Member of Parliament Ninong Ering urged all the line departments, panchayat and public leaders to work as a team for all round development.

Presiding over the District Development Co-ordination and Monitoring Committee Meeting in the Anchal Samity Hall here on Friday, Ering stated that proper implementation of projects is needed for the welfare of the general public.

He assured to take up the matter of inadequate central funding under various projects and schemes with Government on priority to provide sufficient fund under prioritized sectors.

Parliamentary Secretary (PWD) Mutchu Mithi urged the HoDs to put forward all the issues and problems in implementing any developmental programmes.

Giving priority on education and health, he urged the concern departments to be proactive in implementing any central and state sponsored schemes.

The main purpose of the meeting was to monitor/review the progress of all the centrally sponsored schemes in the district and to ensure that the benefits of such schemes/programmes reached to the public, said Deputy Commissioner Deepak Shinde.

He directed PD, DRDA and DPO to include MP LAD components in the next presentation.

Earlier, PD, DRDA Tage Tago gave a PowerPoint presentation on various centrally sponsored schemes, like MGNREGA, IAY,PMAY(G), IWMP, PMKSY for the period from July 1 to October 30 this year.

DUDA in their presentation, highlighted PMAY (Housing for Urban), SBM, HRIDAY, AMRUT and informed that the existing Service Level for Smart City in respect of Roing Town has been submitted to State High Power Steering Committee for evaluation in Score Card (Form-2).

Other HODs also presented their achievements through PowerPoint.

The meeting was also attended by EE, PHED, EE, RWD, EE power, DDA, Agriculture, DDI (Industry),DMO, DFCSSO, DIO, Raja Linggi,Anchal Chaiperson, Starson Saring, ZPM, Kaling Pertin, ZPM, PRI members, Public Leaders and other officials.

Meanwhile, a Co-ordination meeting of all HoDs was held at the DC's office chamber under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner to review the progress of work made under various line department. DIPRO

Bam Secondary School celebrates golden jubilee year

AALO, Nov 25: The golden jubilee year of Bam Secondary School was celebrated with pomp and enthusiasm at school ground on Nov 24 last.

Speaking during a function organized on the occasion, West Siang DC, Gamli Padu said that the 50 glorious years should not be confined as a mere celebration but act as a platform to begin with a new promise to march ahead emulating feats achieved by the alumni of the school. He also released the golden jubilee souvenir and felicitated the teachers of yesteryears who were instrumental in shaping the school. Disclosing that functioning of all schools in the district is under his scanner, he further asked all SMCs and students to open their accounts so that convergent costs under midday meal and students stipend are deposited in their accounts.

Highlighting the importance of Aadhar card, he further asked all to get it through respective offices and disclosed that problems on highway works are being looked into to hand it over to the entrusted companies to speed up the works at the expected pace.

Elementary Education Director, Tapi Gao urged the teachers and students of the school to maintain the spirit of teaching and learning drawing inspiration from the past. He also advised young generation to refrain from drug and alcoholism etc. and appreciated the role womenfolk like Mother's Vision and other Women Welfare Society who are spearheading movements and appealed all to join their movement.

Former Chief Secretary of the state, S Tabom Bam, retired DC, Tope Bam, alumni of the school, Marker Bam SE PWD, Y Jummar Bam, Token Bam Chairman Organizing Committee, Advocate Kargo Bam Secretary GJCC and PK Saikia former teacher also spoke on the occasion.

A two minute silence was also observed as a mark of respect to late Ito Bam and late Marto Bam, the land donors of the school. Games and sports, literary, cultural and presentation of mega dance were part of the day-long celebration. (DIPRO)

Workshop-cum-rally organized

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: A day-long workshop on the theme 'Empowering women' was conducted by the Women Cell of Government College in Bomdila on Nov 21.

The programme was chaired by the college's principal with Advocate Kamala Dewan and Assistant Professor, Dr.Yeshi Gyesen as resource persons.

The workshop was followed by a social awareness rally on Swachh Bharat Abhiyan by the Indira unit of Rovers and Rangers' of the college. The students also presented a skit on the said theme and later installed dust-bins at various locations of the township.

Jarsa and Riram win 40+ men's doubles title

ITANAGAR, Nov 24: The pair of Jarsa Gamlin and Karmo Riram became champions in the men's doubles (40+) in the 3rd Chief Minister's Sub-Veteran and Veteran (Men & Women) State Level Badminton Tournament being played at Raj Bhawan Badminton court here on Friday.

Gamlin and Riram defeated the pair of Arup Buragohain and his partner in straight 21-15, 21-17 sets to win the title.

In another final played during the day in the 41+ men's singles, Mudo Ado put up a tough fight against Laa Ribe before losing the match in the third set (21-19, 19-21, 21-17).

In men's 41+ singles, Mudo Ado gave a tough fight against Laa Ribe before losing the match in the third set (21-19, 19-21, 21-17).

In mixed doubles 35+, the pair of Tomar Ango and Taw Yania won the title beating the duo of Dilip Gurung and his partner Lina Kakki 21-11, 21-13.

Gurung has a chance to avenge the defeat, when he plays against Ango in the 35+ men's singles finals on Saturday.

In other semi final matches played on Friday, the pair of Saji Baby and Tomar Ango defeated B Sharma and Dr D Taipodia while the pair of Gurung and Mudo Ado defeated Damo Bangde and Ram Tajo to reach the finals of men's 35+ doubles.

In women's doubles (35+) semifinals, Lika Moni Mein and Pema Laden defeated Mepung Dollo and her partner in straight 21-6, 21-4 sets to reach the final.

Cleanliness drive

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: A cleanliness drive under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was conducted by the Department of Legal Metrology & Consumer Affairs (HQs) in its office premise and surrounding areas.

The cleanliness drive was led by Hoktum Ori, who has recently taken over the charge as Controller of Legal Metrology and Director of Consumer Affairs.

All the officials of the Department actively participated in the cleanliness drive.

Youths urged to take up sports as career

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: Parliamentary Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs, Nyamar Karbak has urged the state's youths to opt for sports as a career option as the state government is all set to introduce the new sports policy very soon.

He said this during the closing ceremony of 27th Youth Day celebration of Pagi Youth Welfare Society at Pagi village under West Siang district on Thursday last.

Karbak further informed that the department of Sports and Youth Affairs has prepared a new sports policy to facilitate the talented sportsperson to get absorbed in jobs in all government departments.

While advising the youths to desist from drugs and alcohol addiction, he further appealed to the villagers to give special impetus on child education. 'Our foremost duty is to make our upcoming generation educated for peace, progress and a prosperous society', he added.

He also advised the villagers to utilize the fertile land and take up agri-horti practices to become self reliant.

Responding to a memorandum submitted by ASM-cum-President Pagi Youth Welfare Society, Ekar Riba, Karbak assured to take up early extension of general play ground at Pagi village.

The function was also attended by Basar EAC, Horki Diyum, Capital EAC, Hento Karga, Basar PHE AE, Etum Naso, ZPM Jonya Basar besides, ASMs, GBs and villagers.

Former Director of Art & Culture, Katon Borang no more

NAHARLAGUN, Nov 25: Former Director of Art & Culture, Katon Borang passed away on Nov 15 last at his native village Ngopak at Mebo circle in East Siang district.

Late Borang was a renowned administrator who started his career in NEFA days and had served in various districts of the state. He served as the Art & Culture Director from July 27, 1995 to April 7, 1998.

Meanwhile, the Director, officials and staffs of Directorate of Art & Culture have in a release on Friday recalled Borang as a proficient folk singer who was also well-versed in traditional mythologies and cultural heritage of the Adi people.

They further extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed to the Almighty for the eternal peace of the departed soul.

Scientific Advisory Committee meeting held

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: The Upper Siang, Krishi Vigyan Kendra organized a Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting at Yingkiong on Wednesday last.

Speaking on the occasion, Upper Siang DC, Remo Kamki opined that the SAC meeting should be conducted every year in time as it provides a common platform for discussion of important issues for agricultural development of the district.

In the technical session, Senior Scientist & Head and Member Secretary of SAC, Dr. MC Debnath presented the progress report of last two years and action plan for the coming year. Important issues of agriculture, fishery and animal science have also been discussed.

Upper Siang Deputy Director of Agriculture also urged the KVK team to intimate about each important events of KVK to the Deputy Commissioner, DDA and DHO so that they can update the overall activities in the district to the government. District Horticulture Officer and District Veterinary Officer were also present on the occasion.

Awareness progs.on demonetization conducted

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: A series of awareness campaigns on demonetization of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 currency notes was organized in various villages and towns of the state by the Directorate of Field Publicity (DFP), GoI, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, to create awareness among the masses about the significance and impact of demonetization.

During the campaigns, unit in charges explained about the significance of demonetization and appealed to them to bear the temporary inconvenience caused by demonetization. Pamphlets on the importance of demonetization and security features of new notes were also explained to the people.

IEC cum awareness campaign on solid waste

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: An IEC (Information Education and Communication) cum mass awareness campaign on door to door collection of municipal solid waste (MSW) was organized at Barapani, Naharlagun on Friday in collaboration with Itanagar Municipal Council ward no. 23. About 100 participants including shopkeepers, general public and other business communities of ward no. 23 took part in it.

Speaking as resource person, IMC CMEO Habung Lampung urged people to abstain from throwing garbage into the drain, river and roadside and asked them to accumulate garbage in polythene bags and throw into municipal garbage carriage vehicles making rounds of the sectors on routine basis.

Advocating for developing civic sense, he informed about penalties imposed on violators. He further called upon everyone to cooperate with outsourced MSW operating agencies.

AE IMC Kipha Paccha advised people to learn from other cities about keeping the town clean.

Literary competitions mark second day of youth festival

Correspondent

PASIGHAT, Nov 25: Various literary competitions, including quiz, on-the- spot painting, elocution, debate and extempore speech besides competition on clay modeling and poster making marked the second day of Inter Collegiate Youth Festival of Central Agriculture University (CAU), Imphal hosted by Pasighat College of Horticulture & Forestry.

There will be closing ceremony after conducting competitions of mono acting, skit and mime and groups dance on Saturday, according to organizers.

Houses gutted

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: Two MIBT buildings with local kitchen were burnt down completely in a devastating fire at Laptap village under Toru administrative circle in the early morning on November 25.

The devastated houses belonged to one Tana Yasap, wife of Tana Senda, GB and Tana Mema wife of late Tana Muj.

The fire completely gutted the household items, including valuable local ornaments worth lakhs of rupees, informed Toru CO Khoda Bath.

Both the owners were away from home at Naharlagun on personal works at the time of accident.

However, no one was injured in the incident and the cause of fire is yet to be ascertained.

Because of ongoing currency crunch, Jalash Pertic, ADC Sagalee could only managed Rs. 4000 and handed the amounts over to the victims as immediate relief. He also announced five bundles of CGI sheets along with five blankets to the victims for the fire accident.

Constitution Day observed

NIRJULI, Nov 25: The NSS Cell of NERIST observed Constitution Day by organizing a programme at the Seminar Hall of Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering here on Friday.

The Constitution Day is observed to celebrate the adoption of Indian Constitution by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949, which came into force on January 26, 1950.

During the programme, resource person Sapna Ghimiray elaborately discussed the preamble of Indian Constitution while, Sushmita Kaushik gave a talk on Article 51A of Indian Constitution.

A symposium on the topic "Constitution of India and its relevance in modern society" was also conducted on the occasion.

APLFHA reconstituted

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: The Arunachal Pradesh Legislators' Forum on HIV/AIDS (APLFHA) has been reconstituted with Legislative Speaker T N Thongdok as president and deputy speaker Alo Libang as vice president. Secretary General is Dr Mohesh Chai, Markio Tado, Treasurer and PD Sona, Pani Taram and Lombo Tayeng as secretaries.

Other executive members are Jarkar Gamlin, Japu Deru, Olom Panyang, Laisam Simai, Tumke Bagra, Kaling Moyong, Paknga Bage and Nikh Kamin.

RGU Observes Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: The entire RGU fraternity along with its NSS unit observed Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan with poster exhibition in its campus premises on the theme 'Clean and Green Campus' on Friday.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Tamo Mibang also participated in the drive.

Later NSS Park Site Dedication Ceremony was also held.

Violation of official procedure alleged

ITANAGAR, Nov 25: The All Papum Pare Contractor Welfare Association (APPCWA) has lodged a complaint against executive engineer PWD capital division-B and contractors alleging execution of work without maintaining official procedure.

In its representation to the commissioner PWD, the association claimed that in the Rs 2 crores Dokum Colony to Doni Colony road project here, no formalities were maintained by inviting for open tender in the national and local dailies.

'… that as per section 14 of CPWD manual, work value above Rs 50000 shall be executed through open tender where at least three firms should participate. But the concerned authorities violated laid down norms to engage contractor of their choice,' it alleged and urged for immediately stopping the work and begin with official procedure.

Editorial

Let there be investigation

As the whole country reels under cash crunch due to banning of 500 and 1000 rupees note, persistent questions are being raised whether BJP and its supporters had advance information about the move. In Bihar, the Janata Dal United has alleged that a series of land purchases made by the BJP in the state for party offices were designed to pre-empt the centre's crackdown on black or undisclosed money by banning 500 and 1,000 rupee notes. That timing of the purchases, the JDU alleges, shows that the ruling party had been tipped off about the demonetisation move and so it rushed through most of the 23 deals between August and September this year. The note ban was announced on November 8.

Earlier similar allegation was made by CPM in West Bengal. Communist party had alleged that Rs 1 crore was deposited in a bank account owned by the West Bengal BJP on November 8 evening just hours before PM Modi made the announcement. CPM had even produced bank transaction details to substantiate their allegation. Opposition parties on several occasions have alleged that government tipped off its own people before implementing the scheme. This has created some kind of doubt in the minds of people. Indians have wholeheartedly supported the move of demonetization with the hope that it will help to unearth the black money. The pain that people of India is going through should not go waste. Therefore government should order an inquiry into the allegations made by the opposition parties. This will clear the whole air.

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