Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 30: The Middle Andaman Forest Division constructed a Hotspot Centre at Lakralungta, under the Ang Katha Project aimed at providing informal education to the Jarawa community, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
The centre was inaugurated by Cheo and Benon, Elderly Ang (Jarawa Couple) in the presence of officials from the Andaman Adim Janjati Vikas Samiti (AAJVS) and the Middle Andaman Forest Division. This new facility replaces the earlier Hotspot Centre, which had suffered extensive damage.
Responding to a specific request from the AAJVS, the Forest Department undertook this initiative, which was funded by AAJVS with an allocation of Rs. 14 lakh. The project faced significant logistical challenges due to the remoteness of the site and the lack of road connectivity. All materials, manpower, and machinery were transported by engine dinghies, followed by head load carriage through small hillocks. Despite these challenges, the project was successfully completed within the stipulated time frame, marking a significant milestone in the efforts to uplift and support the Jarawa community through sustainable, community-driven development initiatives.
During the inaugural ceremony, Dr. Abdul Qayum, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer, Middle Andaman, while appreciating the commendable work done by the Bajalungta Range, shared various other initiatives undertaken by the Middle Andaman Forest Division for the Jarawa tribe. These initiatives include the plantation of fruit-bearing and tuberous plant species to provide a sustainable source of nutrition for the Jarawa community as well as the construction of a Jarawa Ward at the CHC in Kadamtala, designed with Jarawa-friendly elements. Additionally, a dedicated hut has been established at the Nature Interpretation Centre (NIC) at Uttara Jetty, which showcases the artifacts and culture of the tribe. Furthermore, nearly three years ago, the Department released several captive-bred Andaman Wild Pigs into the wild to ensure nutritional security for the primitive tribe.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by notable officials, including Ms. Saheli Chakraborty, Tribal Welfare Officer, Kadamtala, Mr. Pawan Gupta, IFS (OJT), and Mr. Anil Saha, ACF, Middle Andaman, along with other distinguished representatives from both departments.
