Frame policy for maintenance of rural roads, Centre tells states
NEW DELHI, Sept 15: Rural roads are lifeline for the villages and the states should frame policy for maintenance of such routes constructed under the flagship programme PMGSY, Union Rural Development Minister Narendra Singh Tomar on Thursday said.
As many as 14 states have framed policies for maintenance of rural roads, while the remaining ones have yet to frame such policy.
"...we all know what is the importance of rural roads in villages. In last two years, we have been constructing the roads at very fast pace. Now the states should frame policies to maintain them. It is very essential that the roads remain traffic worthy throughout the year," Tomar said while speaking at a workshop on rural road maintenance policy.
Speaking at the same event, Rural Development Secretary Amarjeet Sinha said the pace of construction of rural roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) has increased to 139 km per day from 70-75 kilometre per day from 2011 to 2014.
Rural roads is a state subject and Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) is a one-time special intervention of the government to provide rural connectivity, by way of single all-weather road to the eligible unconnected habitations in the core network.
More than 4.81 lakh km of roads connecting 1.192 lakh habitations across the country were constructed under the PMGSY till June 30.
PMGSY envisages connecting all eligible unconnected habitations with a population of 500 persons and above as per 2001 census in plain areas and 250 persons and above as per 2001 census in special category states - Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarak-hand.
Besides this, the habitations having population of 100 and above, identified by Home Ministry as crucial are also covered under this scheme.
The government has also launched the second phase of PMGSY-II, which envisages consolidation of the existing rural road network to improve its overall efficiency. PTI
Magisterial enquiry into officer’s death, CM, orgs mourns
ITANAGAR, Sep 15: The Capital administration has constituted a magisterial enquiry to enquire into the cause of death of Late Hano Chatung, a police officer who was found dead on Wednesday. CO-cum-Executive Magistrate of Itanagar Capital Complex Liken Koyu has been appointed as the Inquiry Officer.
Expressing shock and grief over the death of a young police officer Hano Chatung, Chief Minister Pema Khandu has conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family members.
Late Chatung, a Sub-Inspector attached to Doimukh Police Station was found dead inside his car on the roadside near Six Mile on the Itanagar-Naharlagun stretch of National Highway 415.
Though prima facie circumstances point it to be a suicide case, the Chief Minister has instructed thorough investigation into the case. He asserted that every possible angle should be investigated with the help of forensic and post-mortem reports besides taking into account all antecedents prior to the tragedy.
The Chief Minister assured the people, particularly the bereaved family members and the police fraternity, that if investigations reveal any foul play the guilty will not be spared at any cost.
"Late Chatung was a promising police officer. His death is an irreplaceable loss to the police force and the state. I share the grief along with his bereaved family members. May his soul rest in eternal peace," the Chief Minister added.
Meanwhile, Apatani Youth Association (AYA) has appealed to the state Govt to conduct thorough and fair investigation into the death of Police officer Hano Chatung.
Terming the death of Police Sub Inspector as mysterious, the AYA said that Late Chatung was posted in many sensitive areas and did his duty with utmost dedication and sincerity prior to his posting at Diomukh Police Station.
His death is great loss to the society, the Association said while describing late Chatung as smart and courageous police officer. The Association also appealed to the Govt to provide job to the next kin of late Chatung.
The Confederation of Service Association of Arunachal Pradesh (CoSAAP) has sought constitution of an enquiry committee into the death of Late Hano Chatung.
In its letter to the chief secretary seeking a magisterial enquiry headed by an ADC or EAC or by SIT headed by an SP or DSP rank, it referred to the sub-inspector as a strong and brave person. It is hard to believe that he could commit suicide, the association said.
CM upset at breach of security
ITANAGAR, Sep 15: Taking strong exception to the reported lapse in security and breach of protocol during the recent visit of Union Minister of State for Road Transport, Highways and Shipping, Mansukh L Mandaviya to the state, Chief Minister Pema Khandu has directed the Chief Secretary to enquire into the entire matter and take stringent action against officials found responsible for the unpleasant episode.
Reportedly, while on his journey to Ziro along with officials and local political leaders on Sep 13, first of all, the pilot vehicle leading the VIP's convoy had developed technical snag and all vehicles of the entourage including the VIP's had drove into a garage and spent quite some time to rectify the defect.
Further, on return journey from Ziro, the Union Minister's vehicle ran out of fuel.
In an urgent note to the Chief Secretary on Thursday, the Chief Minister categorically observed that such kind of security lapses and breach of protocol during the visit of a Union Minister has set a bad impression of the state government, its hospitality and protocol arrangements. These lapses cannot be tolerated at any cost and the officers, officials involved should be taken to task, added the CM.
Mandaviya, who is also the MoS for Chemicals and Fertilizers, was on a two-day visit to the state along with his wife and had launched the Jan Aushadhi Scheme for the state on September 12.
Union alleges paper leakage, dept denies
Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, Sep 15: In a press conference held on Thursday at Press Club here, All Upper Siang Districts Students' Union (AUSDSU) alleged that there was leakage of question papers during written examination held on 21 August 2016 conducted by District Medical Office for the posts of Multi Purpose Workers (MPW) and Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS).
Addressing the media persons at press club, AUSDSU President Tagiot Epir claimed that question papers of written exam was found at post office just after the examination started.
"One Ojing Peyang found a set of question paper near Post Office just after the examination started, whereas examinees are not allowed to go outside" said Epir.
If it wasn't a leakage of papers, how come the set of question paper was lying at post office, he asked. The union felt that such nepotism and unfair means to get govt job would deprive the candidates who come from humble backgrounds.
The result of written examination of both MPW and MTS was declared on 26 August, a week after the examination.
Alleging there are many cases of impersonations in written qualified list, the district students union demanded for re-conducts of written test and threatened stir and stalling the viva voice if their demands are not addressed.
The union also alleged that procedures of entire examination were not at all transparent saying that examination board did not follow the code of conduct. It is said that taking serious note on the union's claims, the Deputy Commissioner has constituted a fact finding committee to unearth the truths.
Meanwhile, when contacted by this daily DMO Yingkoing Dr. Radesh Tatan denied the allegation and clarified that question papers were not leaked.
DMO admitted that there was one case of impersonation during written exam and action was taken. He also informed that he had appeared before the fact finding committee constituted by DC on 28th August 2016. The DMO further questioned the wisdom of union.
"Had they raised the issue on same day, I could have acted upon the complaint by rescheduling the written examination" DMO added. He also denied the allegation of faulty examination procedures.
The district administration has forwarded the matter to Director Health Service, after the union expressed dissatisfaction at the report of the fact finding committee constituted by the DC.
APPDSU demands fresh enquiry into road project
ITANAGAR, Sept 15: Terming the enquiry report on PMGSY Road from Sangbia Camp to Paffa(Stage-ll) as false and fabricated, the All Papum Pare District Students' Union (APPDSU) has demanded fresh enquiry into the project starting from Stage-I &II including DPR preparation by the SIC or national level statutory body within ten days.
Nullifying the enquiry report, the Union claimed that enquiry committee members N L Kamin, EE and T Paktung, SE (SQC) were also involved in the project. Kamin, EE, was made a member of the enquiry committee, whereas he was also involved in the said project which started in the year 2008-09, the Union said alleging that the so called enquiry committee never tried to find out the truth.
The Union also demanded suspension of both the enquiry committee members for fair and thorough investigation to unearth the truth behind the project implementation.
49th Engineers Day celebrated
ITANAGAR, Sept 15: The engineers of various work departments under the banner of Arunachal Pradesh Engineering Service Association (APESA) have celebrated the 49th Engineers Day with the theme "Skill Development for Young Engineers to Reform the Core Sector: Vision 2025" at ATI Naharlagun on Thursday. The Day is celebrated every year on Sept 15 to commemorate the birth anniversary of legendary Engineer and Bharat Ratna awardee Dr Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya.
Er Atop Lego, CE (SID&P), PWD highlighted the importance of skill development with innovative approach. PWD Chief Engineer Kenjom Ete while delivering a brief speech laid emphasis on use of appropriate software applications for design of roads.
Unlike in the past, the younger engineers of modern age have the advantage of modern computing and communication gadgets, he added.
Speaking on the occasion, APESA President Er S Sumnyan exhorted members of engineering fraternity to introspect and move ahead with dedication and renewed enthusiasm for the development of state. Further, while condemning the alleged trend of extortions from the fraternity members, he appealed one and all to counter such menace resolutely. If members do not take a vow to help them first, such menace shall continue and remain unchecked, he opined.
An in-house training for the engineers and technical sessions were also conducted to befit the celebration. Earlier, the celebration started with the floral tribute paid to the portrait of Dr Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya by the engineering fraternity.
Life saving blood donation - a challenge but possible
[ Ramesh Jeke ]
The blood transfusion service (BTS) in Arunachal Pradesh to save life still poses a great challenge as voluntary blood donation is still below expectation.
Arunachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (APSACS) sources have disclosed that there is no fund provision from National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) for 2016-17 fiscal for BTS activities, i.e., conducting blood donation camps, events to motivate donors, refreshment for donors, POL and maintenance of blood transport ambulance.
Earlier, NACO used to support Rs 2500 for donation camp @ Rs 25 for donor's refreshment and lump sum amount for observation of World Blood Donors Day, National Blood Donors Day and National Youth Day, which used to facilitate APSACS to conduct month-long donors' motivational events.
The State Blood Transfusion Service (SBTC) to be headed by a director under Govt health department offers BTS. But regrettably, the post is currently defunct for want of support by the GoAP. The SBTC, mandatory in every state as per Supreme Court directive, was created in the state in 1998. But the SBTC is defunct with no fund since inception, though it has mandated responsibility to implement organised blood transfusion services through a network of blood banks throughout the state while ensuring quality and safety of donors and patients.
Arunachal Vivekananda Yua Shakti (AVYS), a voluntary organisation, involved in conducting voluntary blood donation camps since 2008 with its 350 young volunteers, mostly school/college students and unemployed, has so far conducted 49 voluntary blood donation camps and collected about 17,500 units of blood and saved many precious lives without any support from state's health department, though the APSACS only extends moral and financial/kind support.
The AVYS runs from pillar to post for support and its volunteers while attending camps most of the time get exhausted and get demoralised. The AVYS has generated enough mass awareness for blood donation which would help to meet the growing demands for blood with some support for essential activities during camps, refreshment for donors (mandatory), continuous donor motivation events etc. It is very painful to know that there are no dearth of fund in health department but not a single penny to save life. If health department is to ensure healthy life, should promotion of blood donation not come under its avowed 'zero tolerance policy'?
The AVYS has been managing its service activities somehow in the state with philanthropic contributions of some good Samaritans. They deserve appreciation as many of them voluntrily came forward to support.
During national conferences on voluntary blood donations, the members of other states explain the support extended by their respective state Govts. But, the volunteers contribute to send AVYS representatives to national events. But, the AVYS, despite being affiliated to Federation of Blood Donors Organisatios of India, misses many events for want of finance, justifying the saying: Beggars can't be choosers.
Indian Red Cross Society, in many states, has been playing an important role in BTS activities. However, in Arunachal, it is defunct though the state governor is its president and has failed to take up any activity till date.
With state's pioneer journalist Pradeep Kumar joining as adviser AVYS got a major thrust to its activities, its foundation day was celebrated for the first time on 14.06.15 (on World Blood Donor Day) and organised an interaction camp to enthuse the young volunteers to accelerate their activities. It was a sheer coincidence that on 14.06.15, Union Health Minister JP Nadda, on behalf of NACO, handed over Award of Excellence to Arunachal Govt, which was received by health commissioner Hage Kojeen and APSACS project director Dr. Riken Rina, for 100% cent voluntary donation.
Kojeen, Dr Rina and SBTC deputy director Dr Nabam Budh had credited the award to AVYS invaluable contributions to humanity. In fact, the 1,161 NACO-supported blood banks alone accounted for over 5.7 million blood units collected during 2013-2014. Tamil Nadu and Arunachal Pradesh had recorded 100% voluntary donation in NACO-supported banks. This was primarily due to greater reliance on replacement donors and the more number of private sector blood banks.
State Chef Minister Pema Khandu and Chief Secretary Shakuntala D Gamlin had all praises for the humanitarian services of AVYS and assured support. Arunachal Pradesh requires more than 15,000 units of blood annually against a total voluntary donation of about 5000 units. It is time for the GoAP and the civil society to rise to the occasion to save many invaluable lives to promote blood donation activities. One could imagine the feeling when blood is needed to save the life of one's loved ones. Never mind, AVYS is there and continue its humanitarian service but when the masses awake the services could be expanded and strengthened to ensure none dies for want of blood in the state. (The author is founder-chairman of AVYS)
Bio-diversity conservation for tourism development: Minister
Mega Solung at Ruksin
[ Prafulla Kaman ]
RUKSIN, Sep 15: Minister for RWD, Labour & Employment, Kumar Waii stressed on conservation of natural resources for promotion of tourism sector in the state. He said the foreign tourists come to this state to enjoy the scenic beauty endowed with blue hills and perennial rivers.
Waii who was addressing the inaugural function of the three-day Mega Solung Celebration at Ruksin Solung-Mopin ground on Thursday, said the festivals celebrated by tribal communities are unique and with similar objectives. He opined that the festive celebrations have special privileges because the community members dwelling at different places meet together on such occasions. Moreover, such festive celebration provides a platform to exercise their cultural talent through various competitions, he added.
Stating that tribal festivals have relation to the plants and animals, Waii urged the community members to conserve the bio-diversity found in their natural vegetation.
Citing instances of Sikkim, which once faced massive ecological degradation due to indiscriminate killing of wild beasts, the Minister said that the state is now rich in greenery and bio-diversity enhancing tourist destinations.
Speaking on the occasion, Tali MLA, Markio Tado emphasized on preservation of traditional attires, which is considered as symbolic recognition of the tribal people. He urged the community not to mix politics and religion with the traditional culture.
Earlier, MLA Tamiyo Taga also spoke in the function.
Omir Tatin explained the mythology of Solung festival with reference to Binyaat Aabang to mother earth for bumper harvest, peace and communal harmony and well being of the domesticated beasts.
The festival in the form of mega event is being organised by Ruksin Mega Solung Celebration Committee to mark the 50 years successful celebration of Solung.
The inaugural day witnessed traditional rituals such as Mithun sacrifice, hoisting of Solung flag and Taku Taabat followed by followed by discussion and cultural programme.
Among others, Celebration Committee president, Yide Potom, secretary Tajong Panyang, local MLA Tatung Jamoh also spoke on the occasion.
AIR to broadcast Tutsa, Miji, Aka programmes
ITANAGAR, Sep 15: All India Radio, Itanagar station will broadcast programmes in Tutsa, Sajolang (Miji) and Hrusso (Aka) dialects from October, 2016.
This was decided in a meeting held on Thursday between Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting, Rajyavardhan Rathore, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, MLA Changlang, T. Pongte and MLA Khonsa, W.Sawin. The meeting was also attended by Director General, All India Radio, F. Sheheryar.
Earlier, Union MoS, Home, Kiren Rijiju, Pongte and Sawin had called on Union MoS, I&B, Rathore to pursue the long pending demand of introduction of Tutsa, Sajolang (Miji) and Hrusso (Aka) dialects programme for broadcasting through All India Radio.
Teachers threatens stir
ITANAGAR, Sept 15: Frustrated with the non release of its two months pending salary for the month of February and March despite many representations, The All Arunachal Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Teachers' Association (AASSATA) has warned of taking up democratic movement if it is not paid by the end of this month. It has written to the chief minister in this regard.
Epitaph of Sir Noel Williamson stolen
ITANAGAR, Sept 15: Claiming that the epitaph of the then British assistant political officer Sir Noel Williamson was stolen from Komsing village under Siang district few days back, the Nugong Baane Kebang (NBK) has lodged a complaint with Siang DC to enquire into the incident and book the culprit/s involved under monument/artifact Acts.
NBK has appealed everyone to cooperate with the district administration if they get information about the culprit.
APAA demands salary
ITANAGAR, Sept 15: The Arunachal Pradesh ATMA Association (APAA) has sought payment of pending salary of ATMA staffs for the months of January to September.
In its representation to the chief minister, APAA has also demanded regular payment of the salary of ATMA staffs and payment of the 10 percent annual increment as per the latest guidelines.
AAPWU seek housing facility
ITANAGAR, Sept 15: The All Arunachal Pradesh Workers' Union (AAPWU) has demanded inclusion of construction of quarters and barracks for the staffs of APB&OCWWB in every district headquarters and ADC HQs under the budget 2016-17. The union has written to the labour and employment minister cum chairman APB&OCWWB.
Its other demands include re-amendment of housing loan, preparation of recruitment for APB&OCWWB employees, enhancement of salary of APB&OCWWB employees and inclusion of construction of APB&OCWWB and barracks for departmental labourers in the budget 2016-17.
4 selected for training at AOC Centre, Secunderabad
ITANAGAR, Sep 15: Four boys from the state have been selected for training and coaching in weightlifting at the Boys Sports Company AOC Centre, Secunderabad.
The Arunachal Weightlifting Association (AWA) informed that Bengia Tani, Markio Tapa, Tami Tame and Golom Tinku will undergo the training at free of cost at the Boys Sports Company of Army which was established in Joint Venture with Sports Authority of India (SAI).
The officials from AOC Centre, Secunderabad made visits in Nov 2015 and April 2016 for the selection on the appeals of the Arunachal Weightlifting Association for talent scouting programme.
Dist admn taking action on ex-gratia payment
AALO, Sep 15: The district administration is taking up the matter of ex-gratia payment and providing govt. job to the son of late Gaba Gangkak, GB of Gangkak village who was electrocuted to death near Daba Gamlin on Sep 12.
A team of panchayat leaders headed by West Siang Zilla Parishad Chairperson, Yaman Bagra, Yomcha ZPM, Yiyom Yomcha, Darak ZPM, Y. Poyom, ZPM Kangku, Nei Ngomle, Anchal Samiti Chairperson, Kajar Gamlin, EAC Kiren Ningo, AE Kamba and Yomcha visited Yomcha to take stock of the electrocution case on Wednesday. After visiting the electrocution site, they expressed their deep shock and consoled the family members of the deceased.
Meanwhile, the Karka Welfare Society has expressed its deep shock and anguish and appealed for a thorough probe into the matter. The society has also called on the West Siang Deputy Commissioner to take up the case of ex-gratia payment and provide a compensatory group C post for the son of the deceased in the Electrical Department. DIPRO
AACWA writes to MoRTH
ITANAGAR, Sept 15: Saying that small and petty contractors engaged for various works related to NH-415 are facing acute financial crisis due to non release of funds, the All Arunachal Contractors' Welfare Association (AACWA) have written to union minister of state for MoRTH for its immediate release.
In its memorandum, the association has also demanded for immediate construction of the already sanctioned Trans Arunachal Highway portion from Potin to Tuting.
AACWA further wanted to know the progress and status of the proposed frontier highway along Mac-Mohan line and said that it will immensely benefit the frontier state if it is materialized soon.
Tackle difference in cement prices, AACWA
ITANAGAR, Sep 15: Stating that there was difference in cement price in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, the All Arunachal Contractor's Welfare Association (AACWA) has urged to state govt to immediately call on various cement companies of Assam to streamline the cost of cement for both the states at an equal rate.
In a release, AACWA stated that the Chief Minister and Industries & Consumer Affairs Minister should take up the difference in pricing of cement in Assam and Arunachal. For instance, the Topcem cement at Assam side of Banderdewa costs Rs.345 but on the Arunachal side it costs Rs.380, added the release.
Few months back the various cement companies had increased their cement prices for the entire Northeast region, which was criticised by various organisations across Assam and with the intervention of the Assam government the cement factories slashed down the price by Rs.25 to Rs.35 per bag and is being implemented in Assam. But the reduced prices are not being implemented in Arunachal Pradesh by the cement companies, it said.
AVP Changlang unit holds orientation camp
MIAO, Sep 15: A two days orientation camp for newly appointed circle level committee members from various circles of Arunachal Vikas Parishad Changlang District unit was organised at New Yumchum Village, Miao on Sep 10 and 11.
Attending the function, ZPC Changlang, Jowkhong Singpho called on all to preserve the age old rich culture and traditions. He also emphasized on the importance of education and needs of awareness among the indigenous people of the district.
Resource persons included Secretary General Rangfraa Faith Promotion Society, L.Khimhun, All India Executive Member of Akhil Bhartiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram cum Janajati Forum NE Convener, Surya Narayan, Mukul Sharma from Assam Institute of Management, Guwahati, State Wild Life Board member, Miao Phupla Singpho, SS APST Miao, Nokchan Songthing, HGB New Yumchum, D.Taidong, ,public leader, Asamto Tikhak, Jt. State Organizing Secretary AVP, B. K. Dubey, Jt. Secretary AVP, Kamjai Taism, Changlang Vibhag Sangathan Mantri AVP, Narayan A attended the camp.
Gagi Dodum FC and Bhaijaan FC register wins
ITANAGAR, Sep 15: Gagi Dodum FC defeated Polo United FC by 1-0 goal on the fifth day of Vishwakarma Football Trophy at KV No.2 playground here on Thursday.
Kara Dada kicked in the lone goal for Gagi Dodum FC.
In the second match played between Bhaijaan FC and All Chimpu Village Youth Association FC, Bhaijaan FC defeated All Chimpu Village Youth Association FC by 3-1 goals. Tamchi Tassung scored two goals and Limar Loya scored a single goal for Bhaijaan FC. Techi Loye of All Chimpu Village Youth Association FC scored the single goal.
Editorial
Expectation from new Governor
After much controversy finally Arunachal has a new Governor in V. Shanmuganathan,
who is the present Governor of Meghalaya. For now he will be holding dual charge
of the two states. In the last one year the Rajbhawan has been under spotlight for
all the wrong reasons. The decision of former Governor JP Rajkhowa to preponed an
assembly session in December last year started the whole controversy which culminated
in the historic judgment by Supreme Court of India.
Rajkhowa's rein as Governor deeply divided people of state. Some of his initiative
especially his tough posture against nepotism and corruption was highly appreciated
by everyone. But he was constantly accused of being soft towards BJP and RSS. Section
of Arunachalees was highly suspicious of his actions. Also the complete breakdown
of relation between Rajkhowa and former Chief Minister Nabam Tuki adversely affected
the governance. Now that new Governor has assumed office after a tumultuous year,
the people of state will hope for better relation between Rajbhawan and Chief Ministers
Office. The Governor while remaining neutral should keep a constant eye on the functioning
of the state government. In the state like Arunachal Governor can play a pivotal
role of being bridge between centre and state. The whole state is hoping that finally
Arunachal will witness some developmental activities in true sense. Lot of time has
been lost in the political fight.
________________________________
Readers’ Forum
APPSC has to RAM
Dear Editor,
This is with regards to the letter titled "Give us chance" by groups of Diploma Holder
in Tourism Study (DTS) from IGNOU. Acknowledging their plea, I would like to further
add some points in this regard.
In their last paragraph they have talked about the qualification for the TIO post.
I would like to confirm that they were correct. In many states, qualification for
such post is simple graduation (in any discipline) and the "diploma in tourism studies/hotel
management" comes only under desirable criterion. The commission should be aware
of that.
Secondly, I would like to inform APPSC that the syllabus of TIO exam is very similar
to B.Com (management honours). Management students would be encouraged if they are
given chance to compete in this exam.
Thirdly, I appeal to the commission to recognize the DTS holder for the said post
because travel tourism is part of tourism studies not the other way around. At the
time where there is scarcity of jobs especially in the state like ours, broadening
the scope, giving more chances to more candidates would be a good option. In the
recruitment drive for FAO, a post especially meant for commerce and economic students
, many engineering, B.sc and "even" agriculture students were given chance to appear
in that exam. This happened because one of their subjects was Mathematics which they
studied for only one year. This was a welcome step for greater good although it came
at the cost of commerce/economy students. We are expecting the same tough gesture
from the commission for the TIO exam.
There is surge of opposition from the students who have completed their tourism/hotel
management studies from some reputed/regular institutions. But their arguments do
not hold water. Before opposing the DTS certificate holder I would like to request
them to Google the essential educational criterion for the TIO post. Besides, they
have studied in the said discipline for 3-5 year, i.e. 2-3 times more than DTS students.
So induction of DTS certificate holder for the said competition should not be much
of a concern for them. If it is, these students should question their credential
instead of opposing them.
Now the ball is in the commission's court to decide the fate of DTS certificate holder.
Time will tell if the commission is striving for mass representation or limiting
the scope of TIO post. Hoping for the FAO exam's verdict from the prudent commission,
after all APPSC has to RAM (rectify, adapt and modify) with the changing times.
Yours,
Rokpen Gali
Cauvery water war has hurt India’s image
Dear Editor,
This is in response to the editorial “Cauvery dispute in spotlight” published in
September 14 edition of your daily. Right from the family backyard to neighbourhood
to office space to national or international sphere --- disputes are bound to crop
up due to natural differences in perspective and thought process and interests. But
civilization demands an amicable solution through dialogues, meetings, exchange of
viewpoints in an environment of liberalism with “Live and Let Live” spirit.
But what we are witnessing in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over the sharing of Cauvery
waters is just the opposite. Far from having a cordial dialogue to sort out the issue
or even honouring the verdict of the Supreme Court, both Southern States are at loggerheads
with each other with violence and mayhem at its worst.
The confrontation over Cauvery issue is not only ugly, crude or barbaric; it also
exposes the fragility of the so-called united India. Does not the “war” between Karnataka
and Tamil Nadu resemble any better than the regular mayhem plaguing West Asia or
Africa on the lines of religion, sub-religion, ethnicity or tribe? Is this the “elite”
India which our “nationalist” leaders try to portray in front of the world through
attainment of Mars orbit or flaunting of “Yogic” muscle on the streets of New Delhi?
There exist many votaries of these two Southern states because of its “brilliant
progress” in education and IT sector! So what is the net outcome of “educated enlightened
mind” and “technological progress”? People at its violent worst akin to the “uneducated”
“philistine” desert or jungle folks? Have we “progressed” even a single inch from
those dark man-eat-man days residing at cave age? Yes, neither posh multiplex nor
IT Revolution/ space research; but attainment of a liberal accommodative mind, co-operative
spirit and forsaking of violence form the real essence of progress. The two overhyped
states named Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have drastically failed in this yardstick.
It is high time we engage in a bit of serious introspection. Does India indeed believe
in a certain kind of “nationalism”? If the answer is ‘Yes’, then it should act likewise.
Of course the interest of the respective states cannot be sacrificed. But we should
possess an accommodative spirit to look after the interest of the neighbours also.
If we cannot succeed in arriving at a solution in a bilateral dialogue, then the
Centre can be brought in the decision-making process. And if the case draws attention
of the Supreme Court which is considered a neutral entity with the final say in any
matter, then its judgement needs to be respected and honoured in letter and spirit.
In contrast, if the states promptly display their violent face immediately after
perceiving themselves as “victimized” or “step-motherly treated” and start attacking
the “aliens” (officially fellow Indian brothers!) and their properties; then even
God will fail to save India from Balkanization. Also we should try to learn about
the real essence of “education”. Not mere gathering of an academic degree through
rote learning so as to enter the job market; rather that mind or society is truly
educated and enlightened which tries to solve problems through the path of peace
and dignity.
In this age of technological inter-connectivity when scandals are no more possible
to be swept under the “nationalist” carpet, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have posed another
severe assault on the international image of India already tarnished by the sponsors
of innumerable child and bonded labour, corruption, superstitions, intolerance,
communalism, casteism, human trafficking, atrocious Human Development Index and what
not.
Yours,
Kajal Chatterjee,
Kolkata
Pay anomaly
Dear Editor,
It has been noticed with utmost pleasure that Government of Arunachal Pradesh, a
people friendly govt. have considered the pay anomaly of UDCs, Assistant Teachers,
Assistant Directors, LDCs, drivers etc in connotation with fifth pay commission and
sixth pay commission consecutively. It has fulfilled long cherished demand of govt.
employees.
But few isolated technical post existing in some department have been suffering from
pay anomaly severely due to lack of association or effective pressure group. These
isolated posts have no promotional avenues at all. It leads to gross disappointment
and has demoralized them to discharge the duties and responsibilities.
Therefore, I would like to draw the attention of appropriate authority of the State
Government and CoSAAP to look into pay anomaly of few isolated technical post such
as Recordist , draughtsman in non engineering departments, photographers etc.. It
is hoped that people friendly government would take remedial measure to erase the
apathy and agony as earliest as possible.
Yours,
S. Chanda,
Itanagar
