Rabindranath Biswas
Diglipur, Dec. 28: The Pradhan, Gram Panchayat Ramnagar under Diglipur Tehsil Mr. Mitu Das highlighted the problems of the unemployed youths of A & N Islands owing to the alleged cancellation of work order system in all PRI bodies.
Speaking exclusively to Andaman Sheekha Daily the Pradhan said that, based on the minutes of the meeting held under the chairmanship of the former Chief Secretary, the Andaman & Nicobar Administration reportedly cancelled the work order system across all PRI bodies without providing any proper alternative to ensure self-employment opportunities.
Earlier, the administration had assured that small-scale works would be reportedly made available through online quotation systems or other suitable arrangements within the work order limit, he said. However, to date, no such measures have been implemented, Mr. Das alleged. As a result, grassroots development has been adversely affected, and thousands of youths have lost their source of income, facing mental distress and uncertainty about their livelihood, he decried.
“It is noteworthy that under the visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the Government of India has focused on promoting self-employment and empowering youth. Unfortunately, the current administrative approach in A & N Islands appears to be contrary to this mission, as it does not support cooperative societies or provide the means for youth to sustain their families through legitimate income opportunities” the Ramnagar Pradhan informed.
Mr. Das has recently written a letter addressed to the hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, A & N Islands apprising him of the situation and urged the LG to restore work orders or provide suitable alternatives to enable self-employment opportunities for youth under the PRI system, safeguard cooperative societies and ensure that family livelihoods are protected. He further prayed before the Administrator that the administration aligns with the national vision of promoting self-employment and grassroots development, Mr. Das added.
Making a formal prayer to the hon’ble Lieutenant Governor in his letter, he said that hon’ble L G’s timely intervention in this matter will go a long way in protecting the interests of cooperative societies, supporting youth employment, and promoting inclusive development in these islands, the Ramnagar Pradhan said.
