Port Blair, June 18: The Lt. Governor, Lt Gen (Retd) A K Singh today laid the foundation stone for the Multipurpose Indoor Stadium, Kanyapuram, Wimberlygunj. The Member of Parliament, Mr. B. P. Ray, Chief Secretary, Adhyaksha Zilla Parishad, Chairperson, Social Welfare Board, PRIs, senior officers and large number of people of the area were present at the function.
Addressing the gathering, the Lt. Governor stressed that the development of entire Andaman and Nicobar Islands from North to South is of paramount importance. This, he felt, will only be possible with the contribution of everyone in the Administration and members of PRIs. Turning his attention towards sports, he said the youth of the Islands are very talented and the facilities in the field of sports need to be provided in various places including rural areas. He observed that sports also help in grooming an ideal citizen and developing character in our youth.
The Lt. Governor said he has ordered re-constitution of Island Sports Council and has expressed his desire that those people who are associated with sports should be included in the Council. The Lt Governor also urged for proper maintenance and upkeep of existing sports facilities.
The Lt. Governor also used this occasion to share his views on various schemes and development projects, ensuring all round development in all the three Districts. He touched upon the establishment of the new college, starting in temporary location in July 14. As far as the permanent location is concerned, a Committee has been established to analyse and recommend the most suitable location.
All out effort is also being made to establish a Medical College which will not only facilitate availability of Super Specialists, but also make available 75% seats for the students of Andaman Nicobar Islands. He requested co-operation of all in this endeavour.
The Lt. Governor also detailed various steps being taken to improve availability of water and electricity for the citizens. He complimented the MP for taking keen interest in finalisation of the development plans in cooperation with district authorities, the PRIs and concerned Departments.
Addressing the issues raised by the Zilla Parishad Adhyaksha, the Lt. Governor praised the work being done by the PRIs, and requested them along with district authorities to redress the small day today grievances at their level. Where there are difficulties, these can be brought to his notice. He stressed that the PRIs are a very important part of the Administration and it is his endeavour to empower them further.
The Member of Parliament, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray in his address lauded the efforts of the Lt. Governor for his efforts in providing better facilities to the Islanders. The MP also urged for constituting a Department Advisory Committee for development of the Islands. He requested for implementing ‘mediclaim’ scheme in the Islands for the retired government servants of the islands. The MP also urged the Administration for considering creation of a cricket stadium of international standard.
The Adhyaksha, Zilla Parishad, South Andaman, Ms V K Mariam Bibi highlighted various grievances of the people of the area and stressed that the PRIs remain committed to work for all round development and well being of the people of South Andaman. She thanked the Lt. Governor for fulfilling a long standing demand for construction of an indoor stadium in rural areas.
Earlier, the Director, Sport & Youth Affairs, Mr. Lucas Robert welcomed the gathering.
