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 apr17 11

April 11

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

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DCM inaugurates Tertiary Cancer Centre

Rs. 3 Crore allocated for free chemotherapy of APST patients

NAHARLAGUN, Apr 10: Inaugurating the Tertiary Cancer Centre at Tomo Riba Institute of Health & Medical Sciences (TRIHMS) at Naharlagun on Monday, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein informed that the government has allocated Rs 3 crores to provide free chemotherapy to APST cancer patients for up to 500 patients in the Tertiary Care Centre at Naharlagun, with a ceiling of Rs 10 lakh per patient.

The state government also commissioned three high-value medical machines to the TRIHMS, which include the Babatron Cobalt Therapy machine, Samsung Digital Radiology ( X-ray) Machine and Samsung Ultrasound ( High end)  Machine.

Informing of the allocation of Rs 3 crores for free chemotherapy of APST cancer patients, Mein cited that this was initiated as chemotherapy is a very expensive treatment and causes hardships to the patients and their families. He also informed that the government will soon release Rs 15 crores for procurement and installation of CT Scan Machines at Naharlagun and Pasighat, as announced in his budget speech.

 Citing that the state is now equipped with the highest level of cancer treatment facilities; he hoped that with the commissioning of the Tertiary Care Centre, cancer patients would not require travelling outside the state for three basic modalities of cancer treatment, which includes surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

He also informed that as per his budget proposal, Rs 45 crores will be allocated for completion of the hospital infrastructure and recruitment of new faculty for establishment of the medical college at Naharlagun, Rs 25 crores for the infrastructure development and purchase of equipments for five zonal general hospitals at Bomdila, Tezu, Ziro, Aalo and Khonsa and Rs 10 crores for modernization of existing drug de-addiction centres at Pasighat, Tezu, Namsai, Changlang and Papum Pare districts.

On being apprised of the shortage of 4th grade staff for sweeping and cleaning by Health and Family Welfare Minister Jomde Kena, Mein asked the Commissioner, Health & Family Welfare to work out and put up proposals for creation of posts for 4th grade staff. He also opined for rationale posting of doctors in every district hospital and to make use of specialist doctors available in the state and emphasized on the need to send more doctors for training to enhance trained manpower and expand diagnostic and treatment facilities in other parts of the state as well. He also urged upon the doctors to create awareness on dreaded diseases like cancer by organizing awareness programmes in various places of the state.

Mein stated that the government is committed to implement the budget announcement in reality and to monitor the implementation a High Level Committee has been formed in the Finance Department which will prepare an implementation framework to ensure timely completion. He would also personally conduct regular meetings with the departments to ensure implementation of the schemes.

On the occasion, Health Minister Kena also informed that the recruitment of faculty members for medical college would be done by the initial part of 2018 and the Medical College in the state would begin from 2018-19 with an initial capacity of 50 students at Naharlagun. He further informed that the Action Plan of the Health Department for this year would be worked out shortly to improve the health services in the state.

Parliamentary Secretary for UD&H Techi Kaso, who is also the local legislator, said that he is ready to provide land to the state government for establishment of more institutes of higher education and medical institutes like AIIMS in the state capital in the future too.

Nodal Officer of Tertiary Cancer Centre, Dr S Tsering informed that there are 2500 cases of cancer reported every year in Arunachal Pradesh and in Tomo Riba State Hospital alone, over 500 new cases of cancer are registered every year. He also informed that a detail work-up is under process for signing of an agreement with Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai by the state government where the former will act as facilitators for providing chemotherapy medicines to the state hospital at very high concessional rate which they will purchase from reputed manufacturers and companies thereby saving huge chunk of money for the state government.

Sunil Debnath, Assistant Manager, Penacea Medical Technology Private Limited, Bangalore demonstrated on the operation and 360 auto treatment of the Babatron Cobalt Therapy Machine. He informed that so far, only 70 Babatron Cobalt Therapy Machines, which is the latest machine in providing Radiation Therapy, have been installed in India.

The Babatron Cobalt Therapy Machine is funded by the GoI, while the Digital Radiology ( X-ray) Machine  and  the  Ultrasound ( High end)  Machine are  donated by Samsung India Pvt Ltd under its CSR scheme.

On 25 July, 2016, Chief Minister Pema Khandu and representatives of Samsung Electronics had a meeting in New Delhi on July 25 last year, wherein the company had agreed to establish 'Samsung Digital Healthcare Centres' in the state under its CSR programme.

Meanwhile, the dignitaries also visited the male ward, obstetrics and gynae section, operation theatre section, Sick Newborn Care Unit (SNCU), etc in the new hospital building.

Among others, Kaling Tayeng, Commisioner of Health & Family Welfare, Nitika Pawar, Special Secretary H&FW, P N Thungon, MD, NHM, senior officers of the State Health Department and Deepak Bhardwaj, Vice- President Samsung Electronics, India were also present on the occasion.

Lack of infra., coaches and fund hindering development of sports in Arunachal

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Apr 10: A consultative meeting of all the registered state level sports associations, Arunachal Olympic Association (AOA) and officials of the Department of Sports and  Youths Affairs was held in the conference hall of the Sports Authority of Arunachal, Chimpu near here on Monday and discussed various issue related to development and promotion of games and sports in the state.

The meeting held threadbare discussion on various issues and problems that are posing as stumbling blocks to development of sports in the state.

Most of the speakers identified lack of coaches and sports infrastructure, equipments and financial constraint as the main hindrances in development of sports in Arunachal Pradesh.

Sports Authority of Arunachal (SAA) Chairman Bamang Tago, who convened the meeting, was also unanimous in saying that lack of infrastructure, insufficient coaches and financial support as the main challenges; and assured to take up the issues with the state government.

 It was disclosed in the meeting that the government had sanctioned Rs 1.60 crore in the financial year 2016-17 to SAA, of which major chunk of the fund amounting to Rs 90 lakh will be spent on salary only, leaving a meager amount for the main purpose.

Informing that Chief Minister Pema Khandu has accorded top priority to the development of sports sector, Tago exhorted the officials of all the sports associations to work with true sense of responsibility, accountability and utmost sincerity in the greater interest of development and promotion of games and sports in Arunachal.

Director of Youth Affairs D K Dinglow suggested recruitment of meritorious sportspersons available in the state as coach/instructor on contract basis. He said that there was no dearth of good persons in the state for recruitment as coach/ instructor.

Dinglow also suggested that SAA should prioritize on those sports and athletes, who have the potentials to achieve success keeping in mind the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. He, however, maintained that focus should also equally be given to other sports disciplines.

AOA Secretary General Abraham K Techi suggested that the SAA take up the long-pending demand for construction of multi-purpose stadium/hall and Olympic Bhawan with the government firmly.

Stating that sports in Arunachal Pradesh was not developing as expected, Abraham called upon the SAA to take up the issue of appointment of District Sports Officers (DSOs) and NIS trained coaches, if possible, in various district and for various disciplines.

Arunachal Karate Do Association President and AOA Treasurer Likha Tara said that sports should always be kept free from politics. He suggested SAA to closely observe activities and development of sports associations and provide fund accordingly, while Sports Director Tadar Appa said that he will put his best efforts to develop the sports sector for which he sought cooperation from the associations.

Arunachal Pradesh Football Association General Secretary Kipa Ajay urged the SAA to look into the matter of charging fee for age verification of players in government hospitals.

He informed that Rs 565 each was charged as age verification fee from the players of the state football team (U-19) for the ensuing B C Roy Trophy by the authority of Tomo Riba State Hospital.

He also said that fund has been not been released for two consecutive years (2015 and 2016) for conducting Dera Natung Football Tournament, though sanctioned. Similarly, there has been a year's lapse in conducting the Tadar Tang Memorial State Level Football Tournament.

The APFA official also raised the issue of lack of proper football ground in the state, saying that "You cannot expect good players without a ground."

Arunachal Pradesh Badminton Association Joint Secretary Penya Bagra suggested for thorough scrutiny of achievements made by any player before awarding them incentives. He said a national level event holds much more important and value than any other invited or sponsored prize money international level events.

Arunachal Wushu Association President Toko Teki, Taekwondo Association general secretary Tara Tagin, Arunachal Karate Do Association General Secretary Bulang Marik and all other president/general secretary of sports associations also put forward their suggestions.

Dalai Lama emphasises on rationality of religion

Staff reporter

TAWANG, Apr 10: Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness,  the 14th Dalai Lama has emphasised on rationality of religion stating that mere rituals are not important if the deeper meaning of religion is not understood. He said this while speaking on Secular Ethics and Happiness at Kala Wangpo Convention Centre Tawang on Monday.

He said that Secular Ethics is possible only through education and not through prayers. Dalai Lama said "We have the liberty  to reject or question superstitions" while adding that Buddhism emphasises on reason.

He said that if one has to follow Buddhism, they must do so after thorough investigation.

He further said that religion is an individual matter and that some people are much happier without religion.

Dalai Lama further said that peace in post World War II is built on fear. However, genuine peace can be achieved by  inner peace through training of the mind.

The Dalai Lama further said that those who kill and destroy in the name of religion are not true followers of any religion.

However, he advocated that efforts should be made in order to understand under what circumstances they took the path of violence.

Responding to numerous questions from the participants, His Holiness said that political and religious responsibilities are different, therefore temporal and need to be kept separate.

Earlier Dalai Lama released a book "Ocean and Blue Mountains" published by department of Karmik and Adhyatmik Affairs (DoKAA) which documents his association with Arunachal.

'Crossing of the Frontiers' which documents Dalai Lama's exile route from Tibet to India, published by Losel Nyinje Charitable Society and Monyul Social Welfare Association was also released by the spiritual leader.

Earlier in the morning, the Dalai Lama spent more than three hours with the devotees at the Yid Ga Choizin  in prayers and Monastery.

Thousands of people sat in absolute silence as they heard him speak.

He thanked the people of the state for inviting him to Arunachal Pradesh. He further called on the people of the state to keep alive the tradition of the state. He particularly praised those who are working towards saving all forms of lives.

Later, thousands of saplings were distributed to the devotees.

Meanwhile,  His Holiness consecrated the imposing statue of Lord Buddha at the heart of Tawang Township.

The CMO reports that His Holiness consecrated the Tara Temple 'Dolma Lhagang', Guru Padhmasambhava Statue cum Temple (Lumpo), and laid the foundation stone of Gyalwa Jamba (Kuber) statue to be built at Buri near the Indo-Bhutan border. He gave the name Jamtseling for the Jamba (Kuber) statue besides donating Rs 50,000 from his side for its construction.

Demand to functionalize Likabali as district headquarter grows louder

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Apr 10:  The demand to functionalize Likabali as district headquarters of Lower Siang district grew louder as various organisations of the Galo community, headed by the Galo People's Front (GPF), and supported by the Galo Welfare Society (GWS) and District Demand Joint Committee (DDJC) took out a protest rally on Monday at Itanagar.

Hundreds of protestors with black flags and badges started marching from Akashdeep at Ganga and arrived at the Tennis Court in Indira Gandhi Park and reiterated their other demands, including immediate posting of Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police and other heads of departments at Likabali.

Resenting the state government for failing to make Likabali functional as the district headquarter, GWS President Dr Mitum Boje alleged that "the government is merely giving lip service by assuring to post a DC and SP to make the district functional, but are doing nothing in reality".

"The people of Lower Siang district have the right to claim Likabali as its headquarter as per decision taken by all Galo MLAs and intellectual groups, so the government should not put it under a cloud of uncertainty by forming one committee after the other to review the demands", added Boje.

"Numerous memorandums have been submitted to the state government seeking functional headquarter at Likabali and posting of DC, SP and HoDs to Lower Siang district but no steps have been initiated by the government for the last four years," bemoaned DDJAC, Chairman Sengo Taipodia, while going on to add that the government's attitude was discouraging to the people of the area.

Taipodia further claimed that their demands to make the district headquarter functional has been put on hold by successive governments for the past several years, whereas many other districts were created around the same time and are currently functioning normally.  He also alleged the state government of selectively neglecting their genuine demands.

The organisations also threatened to launch rigorous democratic movements against Galo community MLAs if the assurance by Chief Minister Pema Khandu is not fulfilled, alleging that their representatives (MLAs) are politicizing the district headquarter issue for their personal political benefits.

Meanwhile, the first day of the second phase of the 36 hour bandh call announced by the Galo Students' Union in all Galo inhabited areas of Upper Subansiri, East and West Siang districts passed off peacefully without any report of untoward incidents.

All the offices remain closed and shopkeepers downed their shutters, while all vehicles remained off the streets. The second phase of the bandh call was declared following the alleged failure of the state government in fulfilling the GSU's demands, which include immediate functioning of Likabali headquarters and posting of DC & SP, non-exclusion of any part under 28th Nari Koyu Assembly Constituency from Lower Siang district, creation of Leppa Rada district and others.

Man allegedly kills father

[ Karda Natam ]

DumpoRIJO, Apr 10: In a shocking incident, a man killed his father and buried the body near his house at Pomte Bage, under Dumporijo Police Station.

Acting on a tip off, the Arunachal Pradesh Police, Dumporijo unit, under the close supervision of Superintendent of Police Taru Gusar arrested the accused, identified as Tajap Bage (30) on Sunday night at around 10.30 pm from the village for allegedly killing his own father, Tair Bage.

Reliable sources informed the police that the accused had killed his father reportedly during the first week of March, but no one had come forward to lodge a complaint, the SP informed. However, the Dumporijo unit police was alerted and endorsed ASI B Tadu to enquire and verify the case.

The murder incident was ascertained through discreet enquiry and verification and accordingly a suo moto case was registered under section 302/201 IPC in Dumporijo Police Station and SI W Kamhua was assigned to investigate the case.

The alleged accused reportedly confessed to the crime and revealed that he had a heated argument with his father and they both got into a scuffle which caused injuries to his father. Later, the father succumbed to his injuries on that fateful night and the accused buried the body near his house, the SP informed.

Investigations are underway and the police team is in the process of recovering the body of the deceased and the weapon used.

Start construction of two-lane NHIDCL road soon, says Rebia

ITANAGAR, Apr 10: Urban Development and Town Planning Minister Nabam Rebia has called upon the  officials of  the National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to take necessary steps to  start construction  work  of the  road stretches from  Khola Camp to Bage Tinali within this month.

Addressing a meeting held in connection with the construction of the said two lane 17-km  road stretches, which was attended by NHIDCL, PWD officials from Doimukh division and Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner on Monday, Rebia also directed PWD EE Nabam Tado to  stop all the tender process  which were floated earlier in connection with the road stretches.

 Suggesting the concerned authorities to start the work right from Bage Tinali tr-junction point or from Gumto, the Minister also requested the District Administration and PWD officials to provide logistic support to the project implementing agency. The PWD officials and Deputy Commissioner also explained in detail about the present status of the road project.

Rebia, who is also the Doimukh MLA, appealed to the youths and masses of Doimukh and Gumto circles to extend cooperation for smooth implementation of the project at the earliest.

When asked about the fund reportedly provided for maintenance and renovation of the said stretch of road for which the PWD  floated tender, the Minister said  that the  said fund can be used for  another road scheme. Rebia, however, said that the matter for utilization of fund will be taken up with the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister, who is also the Finance Minister.

Reconsider decision to close down engineering wings: AAPSU

ITANAGAR, Apr 10: Taking serious note of the reported move of the state government of winding up various engineering branches in Education, Sports and Tourism departments in the state, the All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) has appealed for reconsideration of such a decision, saying that it will have far reaching effects on the livelihood of many families.

Such extreme decision will render many service holders jobless and the decision also contradicts the central guideline, the Union said.

The Union is of the opinion that the setting up of engineering wings in respective departments has in fact helped in the overall growth of the concerned departments and it has been performing quite well after creation of the wings.

The engineering wings also ensure completion of schemes and projects on time as the wings solely concentrate on its departmental project, the apex student body said.

The engineering wings have been supporting the departments to accomplish the construction works and solving technical issues amicably, the AAPSU said, adding that the decision to wind up such wings also indicates winding up Technical Supporting Group (TSG) from the state. "This will directly affect all the flagship programs with other centrally sponsored schemes which may result in de-link of the projects," it added.

Terming the decision to close down the engineering wing illogical and unjustified, the AAPSU said, there have been huge lapses in the past in which the works were given to other departments and still many Utilisation Certificates have not been be produced.

The Union also demanded immediate creation of engineering branch in the Medical Department.  The proposed lone state medical college and Directorate of Medical education needs qualified engineers to nurture it to grow at par with world class infrastructure, it opined.

Heavy storm & hail damages 10 houses

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Apr 10:  A heavy storm accompanied by hail stones created havoc at Mibang village under Paglam circle of Lower Dibang Valley district, damaging at least 10 houses on Sunday evening, informed Dambuk ADC Atul Tayeng this evening.

Temporary school building with a kitchen and four granary houses, store houses and weekly market sheds also reportedly collapsed, while the power line has been snapped and damaged.

The ADC also informed that a large number of rabi crops were damaged by the powerful storm.

During initial assessment by the local administration, it was reported that 22 houses and eight shops are partially damaged. Circle Officer Dambuk is also proceeding to Paglam to disburse immediate relief materials to the affected people, added ADC Tayeng.

It is said that village was recently inaugurated by local MLA cum Parliamentary Secretary WRD Gum Tayeng after villagers shifted to the current location. MLA Tayeng is also closely monitoring the situation and has assured all possible help.

APPDSU requests immediate posting of subject teachers

ITANAGAR, Apr 10: The All Papum Pare District Students Union (APPDSU) has requested the Deputy Director of School Education, Yupia to immediately post TGT in English, Hindi, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematic and Social Science at Government, Secondary School, Mengio.

The Union also claimed that the school authority is refusing to take admissions of class IX and X students in the new academic session citing problems of scarcity of subject teachers.

"When we contacted the Head Master In-charge, he informed us that the school was operating with only four teachers till March 2017 and at present, only two teachers are available,

 including himself who is a TGT SSA Social Science and the other one is a regular TGT science teacher. TGT Hindi teacher has been transferred on medical ground after serving the school for 10 years and no replacement has been made in his place," the Union said.

The APPDSU has requested the DDSE, Yupia to immediately depute the mentioned subject teachers to Government Secondary, School Mengio within 15 days, while reasoning that no student of remote areas of Papum Pare district should be deprived of quality education because of non-availability of subject teachers.

ATCO opposes CoSAAP's demand on retirement limit

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Apr 10: Even before the state government has considered the demands of the Confederation of Service Associations of Arunachal Pradesh (CoSAAP), including enhancement of retirement age limit from 58 to 60 years, the Abo Tani Clan Organization (ATCO) on Monday urged the government not to consider the particular demand for enhancement of retirement age limit.

Addressing a press conference on Monday, ATCO Spokesperson K C Abo condemned the demand of the service organisation and termed the demand for enhancement of 58 to 60 years as "illogical", while adding that it would increase the number of unemployed youths in the state.

"The government should not consider this particular demand, as there are hundreds of youth graduating every year and it will create unnecessary gridlock" asserted Abo.

The ATCO also threatened to launch series of democratic movements if the state government agrees to the particular demand. Justifying its argument over enhancement of the retirement age limit, the ATCO stated that increase of unemployment would encourage youths to indulge in unlawful activities and urged the government to ponder upon future ramifications before taking any hasty decision.

Media students urged to focus on advertising & public relations

RONO HILLS, Apr 10:  'Media students should focus on subjects like advertising and public relations besides social, health and developmental sectors which offer lots of scope for communication professionals today', said Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) Head of Department, Mass Communication, Dr Kh Kabi on the inaugural day of a three-day workshop on Advertising and Public Relation which commenced here on Monday.

Organized by the Department of Mass Communication, RGU the workshop was attended by the PR Consultant and Chief Advisor, Public Relations Society of India (PRSI), Guwahati Chapter and also the founder of 'Learning and Promoting Public Relations' Nurul Laskar as resource person. Introducing the theme of the workshop, 'Show, Shine & Be Seen', Head of Department, Department of Mass Communication, Dr Kabi pointed out that mainstream media is collapsing due to emergence of digital media, therefore, there is a need to divert the focus of media students towards subjects like advertising and public relations, besides social, health and developmental sectors which offer a lot of scope. Keeping all this in mind, the workshop is being organized to orient the students into new emerging scopes and challenges, he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Nurul Laskar highlighted the importance of advertising in the field of business which helps to retain existing customers, attract new ones and also educate society about important issues.

Citing that good planning and a desire to build a good image is the key to success; the resource person said that successful public relation and a good image building completely rely on reality and truth. He also emphasized on how to build a good image and healthy relationship with the people and society.

'Everybody needs an image. A business house needs an image to draw customers, political parties, NGOs and the government need to draw people's support and continue with their plans and programmes', he  said and urged students to make the best use of the three-day workshop for their academic and professional benefit.

National seminar on Tibetan Buddhism underway

BOMDILA, Apr 10: The four-day long national seminar on 'Tibetan Buddhism and the People of the Himalayan Region' commenced on Sunday last at Thupsung Dhargyeling (TDL) Monastery, Dirang, which coincided with the visit of HH, the Dalai Lama to West Kameng and Tawang districts.

Vice Chancellor of Central University of Tibetan Studies, Varanasi Padmashree Professor, Geshe Ngawang Samten delivered the keynote address outlining the history of Buddhism in India and the current status of Tibetan Buddhism and its contribution to the human race in the 21st century. Director of Central Institute of Himalayan Culture and Studies (CIHCS) Dahung, Geshe Ngawang Tashi emphasized on the need to inculcate the high moral and spiritual values of Buddhism and its doctrines.

Resource persons from all the Himalayan regions, right from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh deliberated on the history and present status of Buddhism in their respective areas.

The seminar was earlier inaugurated by State Legislative Assembly, Speaker  T N Thongdok. The session was attended by Deputy Commissioner, Sonal Swaroop along with the HoDs, intellectuals, research scholars, scientists, guests, foreign nationals and students from various colleges and schools. (DIPRO)

Ngandam announces development funds for DIET Khonsa

KHONSA, Apr 10: Education Minister Honchun Ngandam visited the District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), Khonsa and announced a special package of Rs 15 lakhs for improvement of water supply, Rs 25 lakh for electrification and Rs 60 lakh for security boundary wall. While inspecting the infrastructure of the DIET Khonsa, Ngandam also interacted with the faculty members and the trainees. He appealed to the trainees to acquire proper training and to impart their knowledge to the students with utmost sincerity, dedication and discipline.

Hinting that the education sector of Tirap and Longding is behind other districts of the state, he hoped that the emphasis on the education sector by the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister in the recent budget would improve the education scenario.

Later, the Education Minister visited the Polytechnic, which DC Ravi Jha informed, is under way and ready to be handed over to the concerned authority.

The Education Minister was accompanied by MLA Wanglam Sawin, Director Secondary Education, Secretary Education, Joint Director of Education, SP, ZPC, HoDs, PRIs, Tutsa Pongtu Festival Committee members, teaching faculties and trainee teachers.

Maintain quality of work: Libang

YINGKIONG, Apr 10: Minister for Rural Development & IPR, Alo Libang stressed on the need to maintain quality of work in every government sponsored scheme. He said this while addressing the villagers of Gossang at Community Hall, Gossang on Friday last.

Libang earlier inaugurated the CC Road from BRTF road to Gossang village funded under MLAD.

The Minister further advised the people to rise above petty differences and desist from creating hindrances in developmental works. Terming education as one of the top priorities in his developmental agenda, he appealed to the gaon burahs to let the people residing near VKV campus, Ramsing to vacate their houses. Further, responding to a public memorandum, he assured to provide fund for Community Hall, Gossang.

Later, Libang inspected the Gandhi Bridge site and interacted with the engineers and workers of JPT Infra Ltd.

Ex-ASM Ngakgong Nangkar also spoke on the occasion.

Meanwhile, the staff and workers of JPT Infra Ltd on Sunday last, conducted a cleanliness drive under the supervision of ZPM Bading Teng and former ASM, Ngakgong Nangkar at Upper Market, Yingkiong as part of the company's Corporate Social responsibility scheme. (DIPRO)

30-member ArSRLM women SHG team to take part in 'Aajeevika Mela'

ITANAGAR, Apr 10: A 30-member women SHG team under the Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ArSRLM) is participating in the 'Aajeevika Mela' being conducted by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India (MoRD) at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi from April 14 to 23.

The ArSRLM will also put up two  rural products exhibition stall cum sale counters in the mela.

In an interaction session with the SHG team members before their journey to New Delhi at SIRD conference hall on Monday, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Cooperation Minister Alo Libang, encouraged them  saying that they were fortunate to have associated with DAY NRLM, as it has provided them an opportunity to participate in a national level exhibition cum sale. He assured all possible support from the state government to facilitate comfortable stay for the team.

After giving a patient hearing to all women SHG members, the Minister appreciated the ArSRLM officials for their hard work  in moulding  the attitude of women folk in their  selected area of activities  in a short duration of merely six months.

Sharing their experiences, women members expressed their gratitude towards the block and state team at ArSRLM. They said that the persistent mobilisation and orientation has enabled them to rediscover themselves and ArSRLM has also provided them with a platform in the form of their SHG.

Secretary (RD&PR) Dani Salu and CEO cum SMD ArSRLM, Tabin Siga also spoke on the occasion.  Among others, Director SIRD B J Duia was also present. While the women SHG team will participate in the inaugural programme on  March 14,  four SHG members along with State Coordinator N Breeze Doye  will run the exhibition stall in the mela.

Festival greetings

ITANAGAR, Apr 10: Governor of Arunachal Pradesh P B Acharya and Chief Minister Pema Khandu conveyed their warm greetings to the people of Arunachal Pradesh, particularly the Tutsa community on the festive occasion of 'Pongtu.'

The Governor expressed hope that the festivity will herald in new dawn of peace, happiness and prosperity for the community and the state.

In his message, the Governor said that Pongtu, an agricultural festival of the Tutsa tribe of Changlang and Tirap districts is observed on the eve of rainy season. The festival is celebrated after the harvesting of millet crop to welcome the symbolic New Year, which follows it. He hoped that prayers and offerings on the occasion invoke the blessings of the Almighty for a bumper harvest and ensure security of the crops against natural calamities.

Chief Minister Pema hoped that the festival ushers in peace, brotherhood and prosperity in the state. He expressed hope that this festivity will go a long way in preserving and promoting the age-old cultural heritage.

Ering writes to CM on shifting of office

ITANAGAR, Apr 10: Member of Parliament Ninong Ering has written to the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh for shifting of offices of various Heads of Departments (HoDs) meant for eastern zone, to the eastern part of the state for administrative convenience.

In his letter to Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Ering stated that the offices of various HoDs meant for eastern zone are situated in Itanagar which is causing great inconveniences to the officials, especially during bandhs/strikes as they have to travel through Assam to reach Itanagar.

"If these offices are shifted to the eastern part of the state, it will not only facilitate smooth functioning of the offices but also expedite implementation of various developmental schemes of Eastern Parliamentary constituency.

"Hence all chief engineer offices of eastern zone may be shifted to any of the districts headquarters or any other places which are easily accessible," Ering added.

This is a long pending demand made by all the legislatures, Panchayat leaders and government officials and the public of the area, he said.

In a separate letter to the Deputy Commissioners of Tirap, Changlang and Longding, the MP requested them to send the present status report (demography, geographical isolation, literacy and other required indicators of human development) of Nocte, Yobin, Tutcha, Tangsa and Wancho tribes to the office of the Registrar General, India at the earliest.

Ering stated he has placed a bill (The Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2015 (Amendment of the Scheduled Tribes) in the Parliament, which seeks to include those tribes in Scheduled Tribes (ST) list, which is still pending.

NFCM reconstituted

ITANAGAR,  Apr 10:  Senior BJP leader and former Minister R K Khrimey  has  been appointed  as the  non-official member of the Governing Council of National Foundation for Communal Harmony (NFCM)  which was reconstituted recently. The  NFCM is headed by the Union Home Minister as its chairman.

Early disbursement of compensation demanded

ITANAGAR, Apr 10: Itanagar-Banderdewa Highway Land Affected People's Forum (IBHLAPF), in a representation addressed to Deputy Commissioner, Itanagar Capital Complex, demanded immediate disbursement of compensation against land acquired for construction of the 4-lane National Highway (NH-415) from Chandranagar to Banderwa.

In its representation, the Forum claimed that the compensation amount has already been placed in the DC's office in December 2016.

36 BN CRPF celebrates Valour Day

KHONSA, Apr 10: The 36BN CRPF celebrated Valour Day on April 9 to commemorate the battle of Sardar Post on the Kutch Gujarat border in 1965, in which two companies of CRPF gunned down 34 soldiers of the enemy and repulsed a brigade level attack by Pakistan.

On the fateful day, six valiant CRPF men also sacrificed their lives at the call of duty. Tributes were paid to those brave Jawans by Commandant (CCD) D K Singh (2nd in Command) of 36 Bn CRPF at Quarter Guard, followed by a Sainik Sammelan, where Commandant Singh paid homage to the martyrs of his Battalion by displaying their photographs and briefed on the incident.

On 9 April, 1965, at Sardar Post, Rann of Kutch, a small contingent of 2nd Bn of CRPF repulsed 3500 strong Pakistani Brigade attack. In this battle, 34 Pakistani soldiers were killed and four were captured alive.

On the occasion, a book named "Naman", based on the sagas of bravery and sacrifices was circulated to the Jawans. Brave acts of 36 Bn in Nagaland, Manipur, Assam, Punjab, Bihar, J&K and Arunachal Pradesh were remembered on the occasion, especially the sacrifice made by Saheed R N Singh during a fierce gun battle while trying to apprehend an absconding prisoner on 14 April, 1979 from a jail at NEFA (Arunachal Pradesh).

A documentary showing valour of the CRPF was also screened on the occasion.

New edition English-Nyishi dictionary released

ITANAGAR, Apr 10:  A new edition English-Nyishi dictionary compiled by Reverend Tar Choya was released in a function held at Model village, Naharlagun on Friday last.

The Dictionary is published by Komc Lvlaq Society (KLS), Model village Naharlagun. The first edition of the same dictionary was released in 2009 by then Director, Higher and Technology, Dr Joram Begi at Nyikum-Nyia Hall, Nirjuli.  The new edition is written in new orthography, which is approved by the Society. The dictionary will be available in all the book stores in and around the Capital Complex.

Initial training camp for children concludes

YINGKIONG, Apr 10: Over 40 children were trained on various health and sports related activities during a week-long Initial Training Camp conducted by the RSS, which concluded at VKV building on Sunday last.

Speaking during the valedictory function, ZPM Bading Teng lauded the RSS team for conducting the much need training for the children and urged them to organize such programmes from time to time. RSS Zilla Karyavah, Olom Nopi also advised the children to continue practicing whatever they have learned during the training. (DIPRO)

Dr Gyanendra Mani new OIC of NABARD APRO

ITANAGAR, Apr 10:  Deputy General Manager, Dr Gyanendra Mani on Monday took over as Officer In-charge of NABARD Arunachal Pradesh Regional Office.

Deputy General Manager, Dr Gyanendra Mani did his PhD in Agricultural Economics from G B Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand. He has conducted about 40 studies on behalf of NABARD and published about 35 articles/ research papers in Indian and international journals. He has also handled several consultancy projects on behalf of NABARD, including 'Evaluation of SGSY Scheme' for Ministry of Rural Development, GoI, which was instrumental in replacing the SGSY by National Rural Livelihood Mission, presently in place.

DHS staff no more

ITANAGAR, Apr 10:  Tage Yasung, a former Peon of NVBDCP branch of the Directorate of Health Services, Naharlagun passed away on April 7 last. Born on 11 April, 1976, Yasung joined her services on 19 April, 1999. She is survived by her husband three sons and a daughter.

Meanwhile, the officers and staff of the Directorate of Health Services have deeply mourned the demise of Tage Yasung and prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul. They further observed a two-minute silence as a mark of respect for the departed soul.

---- Editorial ----

Make effort to re-start the peace process

The Indo-Pak relation is once again in spin following the decision of Pakistan to execute alleged Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav. A Pakistani military court has sentenced him to death but has not informed when he will be executed. Yadav was arrested on March 3 last year and accused by Pakistan of espionage on the orders of India's intelligence agency RAW. India acknowledged Mr Jadhav as a former navy man but denied that he was in any way connected to the government.

After Pakistan announced that it will execute him, India retaliated by deciding it will not release 12 Pakistani prisoners who were cleared to return home tomorrow.  India also summoned Pakistan High Commissioner and lodged strong protest by stating that if the sentence was carried out, it would be considered "premeditated murder". The decision to execute Mr Jadhav would further increase the tension between the two countries. The relation between two nations has remained tense ever since terrorist attack on an army camp at Uri in September 2016. Tension has only increased with both sides not willing to take any step to de-escalate the strain. The continued hostility between two nuclear armed neighbours is cause of worry for the international communities. Recently US offered to mediate which was out rightly rejected by US. Even though the situation is very precarious, India and Pakistan will have to find a way to ease the tension.  Leaders on both the sides will have to rise above partisan view and make effort to start the peace process.

---- Readers Forum ----

Polo Park is becoming centre of anti-social activities

Dear Editor,

Through the column of your esteemed daily I would like to write about ongoing vulnerability happening in and around Polo park, Naharlagun. It is disheartening to see the teenager come to Polo Park not for healthy reason but to indulge in bad activities. Many young boys and girls are seen consuming cocaine and smoking marijuana, which is punishable offence.

Not only this, the terror has disseminated in different level too. It has brought all the morning walkers, joggers and family who come for quality time at park on the verge of vulnerability. It is never known, when innocent people might be attacked by all those intoxicated and drunken fellows.

Also some people visit Polo Park with Gun almost like a hunter. Being a morning-walker, I have been witnessing the increase in number of such hunters day by day.   In the midst of materialistic world, everyone is under the chain of dense schedule. People rarely get chance to associate with nature even if they want. Nature is best communion and source of comfort. One who has stress and anxiety tries to connect with nature; once they are connected all the anxiety and stress are lessened and consoled.

Since last three days, we hardly hear the sound of chirping Birds; we have been compelled to hear the horrible sound of bullet. Therefore, I sincerely request the concerned authorities to look into the matter and rescue us from the verge of vulnerability.

Jumge Pale,

Literary Secretary,

Kargu Kardi Students Union (KKSU)

IPO available in Itanagar head post office

Dear Editor,

Through your esteemed daily I would like to inform the aspiring candidates of Arunachal Pradesh applying for the various posts of high court that IPO is now available at Itanagar head post office.

I would also like to request all the department conducting examinations, that a notice be sent to Post Master before conducting any examination so that post office is ready with available IPO.

Lastly to all the aspiring candidates that a commission of 10% is charged which goes directly to central govt account and it does not benefit concerned post office or any particular person in any way. Wishing all candidates very good luck.

Nani Tadi, Itanagar

Melas have turned into gambling zone

Dear Editor,

Growing up as a kid, the one event that I earnestly anticipate was the arrival of ‘MELA’ in the town. For me, Mela meant celebration; it was a joyous experience, a time of happiness and unlimited fun. From the high volume screaming during Giant Wheel rides to the thrilling bike and car stunts in the WELL OF DEATH; from the awe aspiring magic tricks to entertaining dance shows; the bright lights, music, sweet delicacy in every turn I take, the entire event of MELA was something I wished to spent the entire day without any worries but only fun and joy and laughter everywhere. This is the MELA I know of as I grew up as a boy in Arunachal Pradesh.

However, as I grow older with the passage of time, the MELA I knew as a kid to the MELA I experienced today is contradicting. In our capital city, we notice the huge attractive posters and banners announcing the different entertainment and surprises at MELA from Nirjuli-Doimukh till Gohpur-Chimpu area. But it is sad to know that these posters are somewhat deceiving. To this date, I still have the urge to visit MELA and bring back my childhood memories and to reveal the happy Mela moments again. And I tell you, the banners are deceiving on the ground that the surprises, treats and the unlimited thrills is nowhere to be found when we step inside the so called Mela. Where did the GIANT WHEEL go? Where are the car and bike stunts? Where are all the mouth watering sweets delicacies? “Have I entered a ‘Mela’ or have I mistakenly stepped in gambling zone?” occupies my thoughts each time. A ‘gambling zone’ because the area of Mela is nothing but entirely dominated by the most on-demand gambling game of our people that is DICE, popularly known as ‘JANDI-MUNDA’. And here, I would like to mention that this is not a story of one or two Melas but all the Melas of capital complex that is being organized on the same illegal motive. In the name of ‘Mela’ and in the name of entertainment, gambling has taken a major negative turn on the lives of our people. And it is even more surprising to know that there are approximately 25-30 such Melas in the entire capital complex of which some are even organized on a permanent basis.

Another irony is that if we enter this Melas before 3 pm in the afternoon, silence rules the roost. But as the evening comes to a close, the gambling starts from every corner with callers seeking the attention of the gamblers. Though I am just a layman, at least I know for a fact that gambling or anything of such short is strictly banned in capital complex. And I fully support the positive role administration is playing in trying to bring down the illegal act of gambling. They hunt every nook and corner and shut down any gambling arena. However, what is administration actually doing when it comes to checking of such gambling inside Mela premises? Are they unaware of such illegal act of gambling that are being organized in the name of Mela? Or is this some kind of joint venture business partnership?

Lobom Lida Tamin

Central Library, RGU, Doimukh

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 jul17 20

July 20

JIC withdraws 'chakka jam' near Civil Secretariat

ITANAGAR, Jul 19: The Joint Interim Committee (JIC) for Stipend and Scholarship has withdrawn its proposed 'chakka jam' near the Civil Secretariat on July 20 after detailed deliberations with Chief Secretary In-charge Satya Gopal on Wednesday at the Civil Secretariat.

During the meeting, representatives from the JIC placed their demands before the Chief Secretary in-charge, where the JIC was informed that all the pending stipends and scholarships would be credited to the accounts of the students as per the notified rates of the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, in view of the guidelines of the Government of India.

It was also assured that if there were any discrepancies noted in disbursement of the scholarships, they would be resolved by 31st July, 2017. For this, the Chief Secretary in-charge said that five students, nominated by the JIC would assist the Department of SJETA for rectifying the errors or discrepancies in the payment of stipends and scholarships.

On the request made by JIC in respect of enhancement of rates of scholarship for 2017-18, it was decided that the same shall be submitted to the government for consideration as per guidelines by the Government of India.

The meeting was attended by Hage Kojeen, Commissioner Education,  Sonam Chombey, Secretary to CM, Nabin Payeng, IGP, Prince Dhawan, DC Capital Complex, Dr A Koan, SP Capital Complex, Yumlam Kaha, Director SJETA, Techi Hanyir SDPO Itanagar and representatives from the JIC, lead by Hilang Nima.

The Department of SJETA and the JIC has been at loggerheads on the delay on stipend and scholarship issue.  While the department made it clear that students cannot avail double benefits and can only opt for either scholarship or stipend, the JIC in a press conference in February this year had claimed that the students were availing both stipend/ scholarship over the last two years. However, the joint committee could not substantiate their claim at the time.

Besides immediate release of scholarship and stipends, and increase in the amounts, the JIC also sought that the government roll back its new stipend/ scholarship policy and come up with fixed dates to release stipend and scholarship to avoid confusion.

The department had also informed that it has started releasing the pending scholarships and stipends of students, but there are some technical snags, like incorrect bank account numbers, dormant accounts, besides other technical issues with the bank.

Earlier this month, the state government had released a total of Rs 28.50 crore from its own sources to the Department of SJETA on June 27 last for releasing the pending scholarship of the students. The Government of India had also released Rs 40.30 crore as grants-in-aid for post matric scholarship to Schedule Tribe students as arrear grant for the year 2016-17.

The department had made it very clear that due procedure to ensure that there is no duplication in receipt of scholarship must be followed in letter and spirit. The department had appealed that proper documentation should be complied with to ensure that the department is in position to release the scholarship to the students at the earliest possible.

Arunachal Secretariat first in the country to enable Wi-Fi

ITANAGAR, Jul 19: The Arunachal Pradesh Civil Secretariat became the first Secretariat in the country to be entirely under wireless coverage with the launch of Wi-Fi Local Area Network (LAN) on Wednesday morning.

With this, the 'power center' of the state government has become wireless and in the process achieved the distinction of becoming the first Secretariat in the country to be entirely under wireless coverage, enabling end-to-end wireless connectivity in all its four blocks.

Pema congratulated the officials of state Information Technology and National Informatics Center (NIC) for the milestone in record time of two weeks (besides the four months in planning and designing) and expressed confidence that the set-up would overhaul work culture in the civil secretariat.

"With the civil secretariat going wireless I foresee seamless and smooth communications between ministries and departments and accelerated work delivery to the people," Pema remarked.

He said this was a positive step towards fulfilling the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a 'Digital India' and is a big contribution from Arunachal Pradesh by becoming the first to have a secretariat with this digitalized facility.

Reiterating his commitment to provide Wi-Fi facilities to citizens too, Pema said that soon the state Capital Complex (Itanagar-Naharlagun) will have specific Wi-Fi zones where citizens will get free access.

He advised the IT department to coordinate with departments like Power, Home, etc to select specific zones in and around the capital that can be turned to free Wi-Fi zones.

However, the Chief Minister cautioned against misuse of free access to Wi-Fi internet and asked the NIC to put in place a mechanism for secured connectivity and misuse of data on offer.

He also suggested sensitizing all officers and officials of the secretariat on the latest facility and its advantages, besides informing visitors the process of accessing free Wi-Fi while in the secretariat premises.

Parliamentary Secretary for IT Phurpa Tsering termed the development as a 'game changer' in the work set-up of the government, which he said is a big step for a small state.

State Council for IT & e-Governance Chairman Gabriel D Wangsu hoped this is a step towards Arunachal Pradesh becoming the 'Silicon Valley' of the North East. He said the best thing about paperless offices is that it would ensure transparency and accountability.

Earlier, Special Secretary IT Prince Dhawan, through a power point presentation, explained that the new facility will provide seamless internet connectivity to secretariat officials anytime anywhere within the secretariat premises and enable them to access e-governance applications through wi-fi enabled devices.

Conceived in December 2016, the wireless LAN project comprises state-of-the-art 5th generation CISCO wireless access points with 1 Gbps bandwidth in each of the four blocks powered by 10 Gbps NIC backbone link. The secured network can offer connections to up to 6000 employees, while 500 visitors can access it at one go.

While officials can get access through their official (NIC) email ids, visitors have to access through the SWAGAT mode that generates an OTP for login in. The 157 access points installed across the secretariat premises would allow round the clock Wi-Fi access to officials and eight hours per day to visitors.

"Interestingly, the Delhi NIC unit that provides Wi-Fi connectivity in some of the ministries there has decided to replicate our design and project for offices at Delhi," Dhawan informed.

So far, the Department of IT and Communications has implemented nine projects under Digital Arunachal Mission of the state government within a span of one year. These, besides the one launched today, are wi-fi connectivity at Dera Natung Government College, Itanagar, e-Office, Jeevan Pramaan, e-Cabinet, CPGRAM, centralized monitoring system of employees and pensioners of Audit & Pension Department, e-ILP and CM Helpline (No 155250).

E/Siang AdiSU seeks arrests in one month

Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, Jul 19: The East Siang unit of the Adi Students' Union (AdiSU) gave one month's time to the state police to arrest the culprits involved in the alleged murder of Ojing Taying, or warned of going done the path of democratic movements.

Addressing reporters on Wednesday, AdiSU East Siang unit General Secretary, Yon Taki said that the Union members have spoken to the Capital Superintendent of Police on Wednesday, who informed them that it would take six to seven months to solve the case as there are no concrete leads in the particular case.

Acknowledging that the case may take some time, Taki however, said that the cluelessness of the police even after almost 40 days of the incident is demoralizing. He said that stronger initiative has to be taken to apprehend those involved in the attack of Taying and his subsequent death.

Late Taying was attacked by unidentified miscreants on the night of June 6 last, and later succumb to his injuries.

Speaking to the Arunachal Times, the Capital SP said that he has not given a deadline to arrest the culprits, but investigations are on to arrest the alleged accused at the earliest.

Further, the Apex and district unit of AdiSU also demanded immediate arrest of Joint Commissioner of Tax and Excise Tani Jongkey, for allegedly sexually assaulting a minor.

Condemning the alleged act of the Joint Commissioner, AdiSU Apex General Secretary, Buteng Tayeng said that it was unfortunate that the accused is absconding and the police is not taking appropriate action.

The Union also claimed that the Women Police Station authorities are not being cooperative with the victim family, and urged for better understanding.

It also questioned on why the Tax and Excise Department has not taken any strict action against the erring officer.

"The alleged accused is reported to be in Guwahti, but police sources have failed to arrest him despite knowing well of his whereabouts", the Union claimed.

Also, strongly condemning the Home Department for keeping silent on the growing law and order problems, the AdiSU said that the Home Minister should resign under moral grounds for not taking an solid initiatives or even passing strong directives to keep a check on the growing crime rate in the state.

On this case, the SP informed that the alleged accused Jongkey had applied for bail, which has been rejected by the court on Tuesday. He assured that the accused would be arrested soon.

The Home Minister could not be contacted by this daily to obtain a statement on the issue.

RGU renews MoU with University of Missouri, USA

ITANAGAR, Jul 19:  Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) and University of Missouri (MU), Columbia, USA way back in the year 2014, has been renewed for another term for furthering the collaborative research work as well as for research exchange programmes of faculty and students of both universities.

The renewed MoU has been signed on July 19 last, at Rono Hills by the Rajiv Gandhi University Registrar in-charge Professor Amitava Mitra, Professor S K Singh, Dean,

Faculty of Social Sciences and Professor Tana Showren, Coordinator of the Oral Tradition Research Project and Head of the Department of History representing Rajiv Gandhi University. Dr Garnett Stokes, Interim Chancellor, Dr  James K Scott, Interim Vice Provost for International programs, Dr Patricia Okker, Interim Dean, College of Arts and Science, Dr John Zemke, Director, Centre for Oral Traditions and Dr Casey Forbis signed the MoU (Renewal) document representing the University of Missouri, Columbia, USA.

Association demands creation of VOs

ITANAGAR, Jul 19:  The Arunachal Unemployed Veterinary Doctors' Association (AUVDA) demanded that the state government create 158 new posts of veterinary officers (VOs).

In a representation to Minister of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development, Dr Mohesh Chai,  the Association claimed that not a single veterinary officer post has been created since 1986 by the department, and rather, all recruitments of veterinary officers were being made against promotional and retirement vacancies, including vacancies due to death.

The Association further said that though the department had announced about creation of 14 new veterinary hospitals and 18 dispensaries, none of them are functional due to acute shortage of veterinary officers.

It also said that as per the National Commission of Agriculture (1976) Recommendation, there should be at least one veterinary doctor for every 5000 animals, and Arunachal needs a minimum of 282 veterinary doctors to adequately serve livestock.

The Association also claimed that the incumbent veterinary officers are overburdened with duties due to lack of manpower.

Further, it demanded for special consideration of age limit up to 40 years and five years more relaxation for APST candidates in the current recruitment process. The Association cited examples of several states which have age limit of 40 and 42. It asked the state government to invoke age limit consideration in the department recruitment rules so that deprived candidates may be absorb soon.

‘Singpho tribe affected by refugee problems’

[ Indrajit Tingwa ]

BORDUMSA, Jul 19: AAPSU General Secretary Tobom Dai said that since the Singpho tribe was one of the affected tribes of the refugee problem, the youths in particular need to fight for their rights.

He was speaking at the valedictory function of the 3rd Singpho Youth Conference at Bordumsa on Tuesday evening at the Singpho Heritage Centre.

Taking the opportunity of the conglomeration of Singpho youths from various places, Dai also called for cooperating and supporting the AAPSU, which has been spearheading the fight against the grant of citizenship to the refugees.

He also said that granting of citizenship and political rights to refugees is a threat to the existence of indigenous tribes.

Further, Changlang ZPC Jowkhong Singpho said the youths were filled with energy and talent and suggested that they channel it properly to bring positive changes in the society.

The valedictory function also witnessed colourful cultural presentations by delegates, who had assembled from various Singpho inhabited areas of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.

Earlier in the morning, the organising committee also conducted a marathon race with the theme 'Go Green Bordumsa'.

The conference with the theme 'Empower Youths for Better Society' was organised by the Singpho Youth Organisation, where learned speakers were invited to give their advice and suggestions to the youths.

The presidents and office bearers of the All Tai Khamti Singpho Students Union, All Changlang District Students Union, and Yobin Welfare Association, besides senior public leaders and intellectuals also witnessed the programme.

Arunachal State Women's Football League to begin today

ITANAGAR, Jul 19:  The Arunachal State Women's Football League is set to begin at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Naharlagun from July 20.

Organized under the aegis of the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association (APFA), the women's football tourney will have a total of seven women football clubs from different regions of the state battling for the league title, which will be played from July 20 to 31 next, according to an APFA release.

Prolonged strike may hamper implementation of RD schemes’

ITANAGAR, Jul 19: The indefinite pen and tool down strike launched by DRDA employees of the state in protest against non-fulfilment of their two-point demands entered the third day on Wednesday without any response from the government.

Though there was no fresh initiative from the state government to redress the grievances of the agitating employees, few Panchayat leaders have expressed concern over the impasse.

They apprehended that a prolonged strike may severely affect the smooth implementation of various rural development programmes, like MGNREGA, IAY, PMAY (G), IWMPS, etc.

"DRDA has been functioning as a fund receiving and releasing centre for all rural development programmes at district level since its creation, besides the responsibilities of monitoring and supervising. The staff of such important office at district level should not be deprived from their service benefits," opined Chairman of Lower Dibang Valley DRDA, Sipi Elapra Linggi.

Linggi, who also is the ZPC of the district, appealed to the state government to look into the demands of the DRDA employees on priority and find a solution for smooth implementation of RD programmes.

The DRDA employees have been on pen/tool down strike since July 17, and are still continuing in all the districts of the state. The employees expressed their dissatisfaction over the irresponsible attitude of the state government and the Rural Development Department.

The state unit of the All India DRDA Staff Welfare Association criticised the state government for showing an apathetic attitude towards the DRDA employees.

"The DRDA employees are well aware that they are dealing with time-bound flagship programmes, like MGNREGA, PMAY (G)             and IWMP, which are purely for the progress of the rural poor. But they are compelled to go on strike due to the lackadaisical attitude of the state government, the state DRDA            Welfare Association said.

The Association stated that despite the central government's directive to regularise the service of the DRDA employees by absorbing them in line departments and release of its due share for their salary, the state government did not respond to the demands of the employees.

The DRDA employees threatened to intensify the strike, if the authority continues to turn deaf ear to their demands.

Fund sought for road restoration

SAGALEE, Jul 19:  The people of Sagalee area have sought funds from the Chief Minister for immediate restoration of flood damages infrastructures and road.

In a release, a group of PRI members, including former MLA Taba Hania have shot a letter to the Chief Minister stating that with the heavy downpour in the area, the road communication has been disrupted but no fund has been provided for restoration work.

"The PWD authorities are compelled to restore the road without fund provision due to constant pressure from the public", it added.

Two-way traffic opens on NH 415

ITANAGAR, Jul 19: The Deputy Commissioner Itanagar Capital Complex Prince Dhawan informed that the NH 415 from Itanagar to Naharlagun has been opened for two-way traffic with immediate effect.  However, the restrictions imposed on heavy vehicles will remain the same. The DC issued the order after conducting field visit and taking into account the inconvenience faced by the public and commuters. (DIPRO)

NEUFC launches residential youth academy to tap football talent

SHILLONG, Jul 19: John Abraham's football club, the North East United FC (NEUFC), took its first major step towards nurturing football talent across the eight states of North-East India by launching its own Residential Youth Academy.

The Centre of Excellence (CoE), as it has been baptized, will operate out of Shillong and offer the handpicked children the best in terms of training, education and competition throughout the year.

"This is a dream come true," John Abraham said while making the announcement.

"When I bid for the team three years ago, my first goal was to start a residential academy for the talented kids out there. We will all do everything in our power to provide every talented child the opportunity to learn and eventually play for the NEUFC first team," he added.

The ambitious plan fell into place after NEUFC joined hands with Shillong United FC, formerly known as Royal Wahingdoh FC, to develop the region into a football power centre.

"We are delighted to start this developmental project with NEUFC," Dominic Tariang, owner of Shillong United and Partner-Youth Development, stated.

"We have already charted a well-defined and competitive pathway for the fantastic talent pool of the North-East. We want to showcase all this on the biggest football stage in India," John added.

Dominic Tariang thanked John Abraham and the NEUFC for being such strong believers in the football potential of the North-East. "Our partnership creates synergies that will benefit the footballing environment of not just Shillong but all other parts of the region," he added.

"We have found a great partner in Dominic and Shillong United and we share our passion and love for football in the North-East," John added.

The two clubs will diligently pick the best students for the CoE and not only provide them training and education, but also competition throughout the year. Shillong United already has a solid base in the capital and will give the chosen ones opportunities to play and enhance their skills in the Shillong State League and other competitions.

The CoE will create teams in the Under-13, the Under-15 and Under-18 categories so that the NEUFC has an abundance of young talent to choose from in the near future.

First Women Football Summer Cup 2017

[ Indrajit Tingwa ]

KHARSANG, Jul 19: The KGBV Kharsang team emerged as the champions of the first Women Football Summer Cup 2017, defeating the team of Balinong in the final on July 19.

In the first half, both the teams could not register any goals. Midway into the second half, the KGBV Kharsang team scored a solitary goal which decided the results of the final.

The champion team received a trophy and cash award of Rs 10,000, while the runners-up team had to be content with a trophy and cash award of Rs 5000.

Wanda Ronrang of the Balinong team received the prize for the highest scorer with three goals in four matches, while Ronnom Sangwal and Tailey Ngandam of team KGBV were adjudged the best goalkeeper and best player respectively.

Injan village team was adjudged as the 'Disciplined Team'. All other participating teams were also given consolation prizes.

The tourney which began on July 4 last, had 12 teams competing for the champion's title of the first of its kind tournament for women in Kharsang circle.

Addressing the gathering on the final day, Changlang ZPC Jowkhong Singpho said that there was a need for promoting a platform to encourage sports activities in the area. He also appreciated the Kharsang Sport Committee for taking the initiative of developing sports amongst women by organising the tournament.

Singpho, who is also president of the District Olympic Association, said that there is hidden talent amongst the girls in the area, which require a medium for their advancement.

Sponsor of the tournament, Kharsang ZPM, Korong Longri also expressed her happiness over the overwhelming response from the participants as well as the public. She asked all teams to prepare for the next edition of the tournament, which will be organised on a larger scale.

Kharsang CO, R K Ravi also said that such tournaments would have far-reaching implications in development of sports.

Natural herbs hold the key to cancer treatment: Expert

ROING, Jul 19: Nature holds the key to treating and curing cancer as 80 percent of anti-cancer drugs are derived from nature, said a USA based expert.

Professor Anupam Bishayee, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Larkin University (USA), who delivered the keynote address at a seminar on traditional medicinal plants in prevention and treatment of cancer, organized by RIWATCH, Roing elaborated how common plants Black Currant (Ribes nigrum L), Pomegranate (anar fruit) and Amoora (Amoora rohitua) provide abundant anti-cancer components that could block the cancer cells' pathways.

According to him, more than 3000 plant species give valuable biochemical components.

Dr Bishayee said that imbalanced dietary practices, like fast foods contribute to 35 percent cancer deaths all over the world and 30 percent deaths are due to tobacco use.

He hoped the scientists and farmers of Arunachal Pradesh would take advantage of their rich biodiversity to make vital contributions to the battle against cancer.

"Since cancer is a complex disease, we need to introduce personalized approach for testing and using natural agents. This needs many new studies by many more new researchers", added Dr Bishayee.

Dr Nandini Dolepat from FRLHT Bangalore, Dr Bibhuti Kakoti from Dibrugarh University and Dr Bichitra Kr Doley from Assam Medical College were the other experts, who presented papers in the seminar, attended by participants from the health and agriculture departments, IG College, Tezu and community elders.

Associate Professor, Dr Kakoti elaborated the various methods of studying local herbs that demonstrate anti-carcinogenic properties.

He listed common plants from the NE region like Tagor (Ervatamia coronaria), studies of which yielded very promising results.

Lauding an Arunachalee female scholar, who did innovative M Tech studies on body fluids of an insect, he appealed to Arunachalee students and teachers to take up exploratory studies from their environment and hoped that RIWATCH would be an ideal platform to identify new plants with disease-resistant properties.

Dr Doley elaborated on bio-chemical studies of 'Dimaru' (Ficus auriculata), a plant widely used by the Mishing tribe of Assam.

Dr Dolepat explained how a medicinal garden of selected herbs set up in a hospital, hostel or home, would be valuable in treating various physiological and psycho-somatic diseases. She also appealed to Arunachal institutions and youth to set up such gardens, for which FRLHT would be able to offer support.

The seminar was coordinated by Dr Ista Pulu, Medical Superintendent, Roing Hospital, and member RIWATCH.

Doorstep screening for TB symptoms

ITANAGAR, Jul 19: The second phase of the active tuberculosis (TB) case finding activities in the state is underway from July 17 and would continue till July 31 next.

Accordingly, three districts of East Kameng, Papum Pare and Lower Subansiri have been identified and selected, based on their TB case finding activity, TB burden and the number of drug resistant TB cases.

Teams led by district TB officers, comprising of health personnel from state Health Services, Revised National TB Control Programme and ASHAs will pay house-to-house visit to screen for symptoms of TB.

The department has made an appeal to everyone to lend a helping hand and spread the message to people at risk, to avail these services and make Arunachal Pradesh free of TB.

The Revised National TB Control Programme is being held under the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Arunachal Pradesh, in collaboration with the Central TB Division, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.

AKDDSU calls for strict action against absentee govt officials

ITANAGAR, Jul 19: The All Kra Daadi District Student's Union (AKDDSU) has strongly appealed to the Deputy Commissioner of Kra Daadi to take strict action against absentee government officials of the district.

In a release, the AKDDSU informed that maximum officers of work departments, like PWD, RWD and PHED are permanently settled in the Capital Complex and have even established offices there. Due to this, ordinary citizens are facing lot of trouble, the Union added.

Further, the AKDDSU alleged that officers are misusing public money by establishing temporary camp offices in Capital Complex and paying heavy rents.

The Union has appealed to the government officials of Tali and Pipsorang circles to establish their camp offices at Palin instead of Ziro if they are facing communication issues.

Further, the AKDDSU also questioned the move to appoint ADC S Lowang as in-charge of project director and asked the DC not to approve such a move.

LED bulbs, energy efficient fans at subsidized rates

ITANAGAR, Jul 19: LED bulbs, tubes and energy efficient fans have been made available at subsidized rates in various outlets opened in the offices of Deputy Directors and Project Officers of APEDA in various districts of the state as part of the GoI's UJALA (Unnat Jeevan by Affordable LEDs and Appliances for All) scheme which was launched in the state on July 17 last.

This was informed by the APEDA Director, Itanagar in a release on Wednesday.

The APEDA Director has further informed that those in the Capital Complex can collect the said items from the outlet opened near Urja Bhawan, Itanagar and in the office premise of the PO, APEDA, Doimukh.

Laptops donated to the Apnes

WAKRO, Jul 19:  Laptops and stationery items were given to Apnes of Apna Vidya Bhavan by donors from Assam during a function organized at Anu Bhawan, Beena Enclave on Wednesday.

Speaking on the occasion, Colonel Prasanna Joshi of the 2 Mech encouraged the youths to remain fit and join the Indian Army to serve the nation. He also lauded the services rendered by the ASSET in improving education in rural areas.

DC urges people not to remain mute spectators to domestic violence

ROING, Jul 19:  Lower Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner, Deepak Shinde urged people not to remain mute spectators to domestic violence and to report any incident involving domestic violence to the police or appropriate authority.

Speaking at an awareness programme on child labour, POCSO Act and domestic violence here on Wednesday, the DC urged the people not to encourage the perpetrators of any kind of violence against women and children.

"Having knowledge of something and making use of that knowledge are two different things", he said, while urging people to report such incidents to agencies that deal with such cases.

Deputy Director of ICDS Savitri Khamti also encouraged victims of domestic violence to approach her office and file Domestic Incident Report (DIR) without any fear. She informed that DIRs helped solve at least 14 cases of domestic violence this year so far.

Advocate Bahe Mickrow highlighted the various provisions under POCSO Act, informing how the Act deals with appropriate punishments to the abusers even for the smallest unhealthy act against a child.

GS EMWEF Sumila Linggi highlighted various forms of domestic violence and the importance of creating awareness among the masses about their legal rights.

"Children belonging to families where domestic violence prevails become very abusive, violent and suicidal," she said.

Dr Manaya Mena spoke about ill effects of child labour and the importance of bringing an end to it.

Highlighting about her institution, Chairperson of Nani Maria Children's Home and Society (NMCHS), Desai Linggi appealed to the people to come forward and help them find children that are in need.

"We have now 17 children in our facility. I along with my husband have been taking care of these children on our own as there has been no financial assistance from the government since last two years", she informed.

There are also couple of differently-abled children in the Home, who will be sending to school for Hearing Impaired at Itanagar very soon, she said.

Roing SP Sanjay Kumar Sain said that although the women of the state enjoy a far better status as compared to their counterparts in other parts of India, it is sad to see that domestic violence, which can be classified as the most disturbing act, prevails here.

He urged the people to report any case of violence or abuse against children and missing children to the police. He also briefed the people about the ongoing Operation Smile, an initiative of the Police Department to track missing children and child abuse.

The SP contributed Rs 10,000 to the Home's fund, and approved for installation of CCTV camera at the facility.

Later, both the DC and SP announced that they will adopt a child each from the Children's Home.

The programme was organized by Nani Maria Children's Home and Society (NMCHS), in collaboration with DD, ICDS.

North East may get separate zones

NEW DELHI, Jul 19: The Government on Wednesday said it is "pro-actively" considering the matter of having two separate time zones in the country.

The issue was raised in the Lok Sabha by BJD member B Mahtab who highlighted that there was a gap of nearly two hours in sunrise timings between the eastern and the western parts of the country.

"Sun rises at 4 am in Arunachal Pradesh while offices open at 10 AM. The Ministry of Science and Technology has also done a study on this in the past," Mahtab said.

He said some 2.7 billion units of electricity could be saved if there are two separate time zones and added that only the Centre can take a call on office timings.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar said the government has taken Mahtab's suggestion very "seriously".

"He has raised a very important and sensitive matter. The government is pro-actively considering the issue," he said.

Recently, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu reiterated northeastern states' decades-old demand for a separate time zone.

Leaders from the North East Region argue that a separate time zone would increase daylight savings and efficiency.

One of the arguments that the states advance is that the early sunrise means that by the time they start their day, almost half the day has passed. This means an early sunset which requires extra use of lights in both at homes, offices and public places.

"We get up as early as 4 am. Several daylight hours are wasted as government offices open only at 10 am and close at 4 pm," Pema said.

The demand for a separate time zone has been long standing and before the current CM, former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi had also raised the same issue. (PTI)

PWD Capital begins restoration of colony roads

ITANAGAR, Jul 19: The PWD Capital Division A & B have begun restoration works of several colony roads, which were severely damaged by the recent landslides.

Days after the weather cleared, engineers of the PWD Capital Division A & B have engaged several heavy machineries in different stretches of roads in Itanagar township. On Wednesday, the department was seen working on the roads from ESS to C Sector via the DDK road to the CM's private residence; road at C-II Sector, at Pachali-Ganga Market via BSI, Senki View, Senki Park, besides various other locations.

The engineers of the PWD said that the restoration would continue in different parts of Itanagar as many areas have been badly affected by severe landslide and downpour.

‘Restore water supply’

ITANAGAR, Jul 19:  Informing that the denizens of the Capital Complex have been facing much hardship due to non-supply of water following damage to water supply lines recently, the Voice of North-East (VNE) has in a release on Wednesday appealed to the PHED &WS to restore the same at the earliest.

It has further appealed to the state government to immediately restore the blocked Sagalee to Seppa road soon.  'Sushee Company Pvt Ltd, which is entrusted with the road construction work has stopped work mid way following the recent landslide', the organization claimed.

Meeting on GST held

YUPIA, Jul 19: A meeting on implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) was held here on Wednesday in the DC's conference hall under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Tai Kaye to take stock of implementation of GST in Papum Pare district.

DC Kaye, while interacting with the officers from Tax and Excise Department enquired about the progress of GST in Papum Pare district.

He said that GST is a totally new concept and all the officers responsible for its implementation must keep themselves well acquainted with its mechanism, besides educating stakeholders to make its implementation successful in the district.

He also directed the DIO NIC to assist the Tax and Excise Department in setting up a GST felicitation centre at the DC's office in Yupia to facilitate GST registration.

Meanwhile, officers from the Tax and Excise Department briefed the DC about the GST and its modalities. They added that all businesses can register themselves for the GST by logging on the portal www.gst.gov.in. (DIPRO)

Educational exchange prog between AUS and Maejo University, Thailand

CHIANG MAI (Thailand), Jul 19: The Arunachal University of Studies (AUS), Namsai and Maejo University, Chiang Mai, one of the oldest agricultural universities of Thailand, have mutually agreed for educational exchange programme on joint research on rice, fisheries and medicinal plants.

The agreement came after a meeting of the heads of both the Universities at Maejo University on Wednesday.

Under the programme, the students of both the universities will be permitted vertical mobility to pursue the programme in one of the institutions on joint research of rice, fisheries and medicinal plants.

The universities also agreed upon improvement of curriculum and internship exchange programme in various Masters Degree courses offered by the AUS in the field of entomology, agronomy, olericulture, plant pathology and soil science under Agriculture Sciences.

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who is leading the team, underscored the importance of more coordination between Arunachal Pradesh and Thailand in education and agricultural fields.  He said that Arunachal Pradesh has vast lands and tremendous scope for development in agriculture and allied sectors.

By agreeing into area of cooperation between the two universities, our students can now be able to learn innovative ways of agricultural methods adopted by the people of Thailand, Mein said.

Describing the agreement between the two universities as the most appropriate, Mein, however, said just signing MoU will not serve the desired purpose. There should be serious follow up action for tangible results, he said.

President of AUS, Dr Ashwani Lochan said such collaboration and cooperation between the two universities would greatly benefit the student community and faculty members of both the countries.

Dr Kodchapom Siripoleakit, Vice-President of Maejo University in his speech said that she is looking forward for mutual agreement on academic exchange programme on arrival of President of the University who is currently in a tour programme.

Thanapat Choompolsil, Vice-President of Human Resource & Administration, Unimit Engineering Public Company Limited, Thailand, Professor V K Kawatra, Vice-Chancellor of Arunachal University of Studies, Himanshu Panchal, Joint Registrar, AUS Namsai and various Head of Departments of Maejo University, Chiang Mai were also present on the occasion.

The delegation also visited the School of Renewable Energy, Orchid Research & Development Centre and Farm, etc of the Maejo University.

Administration continues drive against slaughter house

ITANAGAR, Jul 19: Continuing the drive to check illegal meat vendors along the National Highway, EAC Itanagar Jiken Bomjen, along with the OC Itanagar on Wednesday caught six people running illegal slaughter houses along the NH-415.

The slaughter houses were being operated at Gohpur, Chandranagar and 6 Kilo.

Although the vendors were given enough time to relocate to other feasible locations, they were reportedly found operating along the National Highway in spite of the prohibition order.

An FIR has also been lodged at Itanagar Police Station against the defaulters, informed the EAC. (DIPRO)

Bicycle race to Mark Kargil Vijay Diwas

AALO, Jul 19:  The Aalo Military Station is organising a bicycle race as part of the Kargil Vijay Diwas celebration on July 26.

The open to all 30 km race will start at Aalo General Ground and pass through Pobdi turning point before reaching the finishing point of Richpal Chowk. (DIPRO)

---- Editorial ----

Hydro issue back to haunt state

The hydropower issue is back to haunt government of Arunachal. Save Mon Region Forum (SMRF) which is spearheading the fight against mega dam construction in Tawang district has issued seven-days ultimatum to the Chief Minister urging him to issue orders for immediate roll back of NHPC Stage-I and II Hydro Power Project from Tawang.  SMRF has been leading people's movement against hydropower project in Tawang district for last many years. The organization has even threatened to start democratic movement if govt fails to meet their demands.

There is every possibility that this may lead to next round of confrontation between state government and locales who are opposing the mega dam project. In May 2016, two protestors were killed at Tawang when local staged protest against arrest of anti-dam activist Lobsang Gyatso. The victim family is yet to get justice. No action has been initiated against the officials involved in the killing of two protestors. This time the government should be careful and tactfully handle the situation. The anti dam sentiment is getting strong in neighbouring Assam too. In the wake of recent flood, several Assam-based organisations have blamed Ranganadi Dam in Arunachal for causing flood in the state. Government of Arunachal will need to really work hard to convince the people about positive side of hydropower project.

---- Readers Forum ----

The sun rises in the east

Dear Editor,

India stretches from 68°7' East in Gujarat to 97°25’ East in Arunachal Pradesh and measures about 3000 km from its east end to its west end. The time difference between these extreme points is approximately 2 hours leading to differences in time of sunrise and sunset.

By following the IST, a common man in North east India has to wait for two extra hours to send a letter from the local post office as these government offices are accessible only after 10 AM. By the time government offices or educational institutions open, many daylight hours are already lost in this region thus giving West India the upper edge.

The same logic can be applied in case of sunset. As the twilight hits NE earlier compared to the western side, it leads to lesser duration of working hours during daytime and more consumption of energy due to the plentiful use of artificial lights. This problem gets even more noticeable during winters as the sun sets approximately around 4 PM in many parts of NE.

The ventilation of the idea of a separate time zone for NE India started around 2 decades back, when the government established a small committee in 2001 under the Ministry of Science and Technology to examine the strengths and weaknesses of multiple time zones in India. Kapil Sibal, who was the then head of the ministry, disregarded this issue and asked to stick with the IST. Most recently, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, has also advocated the idea of a separate time zone for NE.

In 2006, the Planning Commission (now NITI Ayog) recommended the introduction of another time zone for more efficiency. Former Chief Minister of Assam, Tarun Gogoi, argued about the unproductivity and inefficiency of Assam due to less daylight in the region and dynamically demanded for the enactment of the bagaan time zone into its state official time. But all these efforts went in vain owing to indifference of the Union government.

However, scientists and researchers from the National Institute of Advanced Studies have m insisted on advancing IST by half an hour. They justified their stand with data-centric Research Paper published in 2012 which reported an increase to 17-18% saving of daily energy consumption that is saving India more than 2.17 billion kWh of electricity every year. A petition was signed on change.org regarding the same but it only ended as a futile attempt.

The British Raj adopted 3 different time zones; a Bombay time zone, a Calcutta time zone and a tea garden time or the baagaantime which was followed by the tea plantation workers in India. This chai baagaan time was one hour ahead of the IST which helped the workers do their work according to the sunlight. Present day workers still follow this routine for better productivity and efficiency.

If the USA having an end to end area of approximately 4300 km can have 4 different time zones, why cannot India have at least 3 different time zones?

The Guwahati High Court recently dismissed a petition which sought a direction from the central government to approve a separate time zone for North East. The High Court said that two time zones can cause unimaginable chaos, considering the country’s demographic size. India is a country where trains change tracks by manual switching. Different time zones could cause major confusion in communications between train operators and lead to accidents. However, these limitations are not sempiternal and can easily be taken care of.

But why won’t India introduce a new time zone? Apart from the above official challenges, there are powerful psychological reasons behind this reluctance. In official phraseology, NE is still regarded as a troubled region. Every state in the region has suffered from violent insurgency and brutal counterinsurgency since independence. Some insurgent groups, seeking full secession from India, are still active. Beijing, which already claims Arunachal Pradesh as its own, is repeatedly prodded by ultra-nationalists in China to annexe the entire region.

In such circumstances, the grant of a different time zone for the area, as the academic Lawrence Liang has observed, is viewed by New Delhi as the first temporal step towards conceding spatial autonomy. Indian nationalists naturally saw the place differently. Their decision to enforce IST made sense in the immediate aftermath of partition and independence when India’s future as a united entity was uncertain. Today however, to deny 45 million Indians in the North East more daylight saving time is to place the insecurities of India’s founders above the urgent needs of India’s citizens.

As anyone vaguely familiar with the North East knows, the principal cause of unrest in the region is its economic backwardness. A new time zone will go a long way towards addressing this problem. It will save daylight, boost productivity and conserve electricity. A prosperous north-east is less likely to yield to the temptations of separatism. People can engage in other activities with the extra daylight which can have a positive impact on their health and psychology in the long run. Regular activities like cycling and walking would provide a better platform for improved health. Also, morning sunshine affects circadian rhythms indirectly aiding the sleep patterns. As India is largely an agricultural nation, more daylight can lead to better productivity. Even children will get more time to engage in outdoor co-curricular activities.

The time distance between the North East and the mainland of the country is also responsible for the difference in development index between the north east and the rest of the country. All the highly developed cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangaluru, Ahmedabad etc are located west of the IST thus enjoying more daylight. This might be one of the reasons for lesser industrial developments in NE region otherwise known for its rich and vast natural resource base. With the diminishing problem of connectivity and insurgency, lesser daylight hours is one of the reasons for MNCs and industries to avoid setting of offices in NE. The basic deterrent of the industrialist to invest in this region is the lack of power supply and huge expenses to run factory after sunset. This basic demand can be fulfilled by diverting the already saved energy for the industrial needs. So with the creation of different time zones, we not only welcome the idea of saving precious time but also help us address the problem of underdevelopment and health security in NE.

The advantages are many; from the increase in productivity to the increase in efficiency and decrease in energy consumption. But it can somewhat provide NE recognition in mainland India and also around the national media. As we all know this region was neglected ever since independence in various fields. This small yet meaningful approach can provide recognition and the autonomy that the people of NE craved for since independence. Further linked with the increase in infrastructural projects in this region and NE being the pioneer in India’s Act East Policy, the formulation of another time zone in this region can prove to be pivotal in binding the people of NE together with the rest of the nation and hence enhancing the unity of our nation. Apart from the socio-economic benefits, this time zone can also prove to be politically beneficial.

As Darwin once said, “a man who dares to waste one hour of time has not discovered the value of time”, we will similarly fail to understand the value and the importance of having more than one time zone if we do not take a chance by investing in it.

Anuran Medhi

Kirori Mal College,

Layan Kaushik,

IIT Roorkee

Delayed exam result

Dear Editor,

I am an aspiring candidate who attended the written examination for the post of Junior Engineer (SSA), Zilla Mission, Lower Subansiri.

The written exam was conducted on 19th February 2017. It has been nearly five months since the conduct of the written examination. But the result is mysteriously being delayed without any reason.

On enquiry about the matter, the DC cum DPO and DDSE are found to be lacking in coordination, leading to delay in announcement of the result. The candidates are being victimized here. Every aspirant had attended the examination after tremendous amount of time and energy. And it is our right to know the status of our hard work.

And in this regard, I request the concern department to stop playing with the sentiments of the aspiring candidates and the unemployed youths in particular.

This trend should not be encouraged. And I hope, this grievance is heard and initiative is taken immediately.

Aspiring Candidate

All email and surface mails must be accompanied with contact numbers and full postal address. Do keep writing but please make sure that letters are short and to the point.

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