John Wilbert &Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Feb 14: The State president of BJP A & N Islands, Mr. AjoyBairagi today said that BJP is committed to the development of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The party has made strides in promoting comprehensive development activities in the area.
Mr. Bairagi mentioned that during a recent visit by Home Minister, Mr. Amit Shah, the party’s core committee and tribal organizations discussed important issues. The party requested additional funding to promote urban and rural development in the island group.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many developmental activities were put on hold, and the party is now making efforts to restart them to expedite the development of the islands.
Mr. Bairagi also stated that Port Blair Municipal Council has received a grant of INR 13.45 crore from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Similarly, the District South Andaman Zilla Parishad received a grant of INR 6 crore, and the funds received will aid in the development work of the area.
Mr. Bairagi also mentioned that the administration has given its consent to start quarry operation in the Middle Andaman District. The project has the potential to provide employment opportunities for the islanders.
Former Member of Parliament Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray announced that quarries in the North and Middle Andaman district will be restarted soon, with the auction process already underway. He stated that 26 quarries have been approved for operation by the district administration.
He added that the administration has also approved soil cutting in the islands, with a core committee being formed to oversee the process.
In addition, the Andaman Public Works Department has been granted funds for the repair and upgrading of 47 roads, with 26 of them already being worked on. The government has also provided funds for the construction of 139 new roads in the islands, which will significantly improve transportation for the island’s residents.
Mr. Vishal Jolly, BJP’s National executive member and former state president said that Copra will soon be procured at the minimum support price in these islands. This will allow farmers to sell their Copra at three times the current price.
Mr. Jolly added that a recent tour of the southern island group by the Chief Secretary had created an atmosphere of trust in the administration among tribal people. Now all senior officials of the departments are touring the remote areas of the island group. Officers are visiting the ground level and addressing the problems of the people. This step by the administration will give a new impetus to development in the islands.
Mr. Jolly also informed that the Home Minister will be returning by the end of next month. During this time, discussions will be held with the Home Minister on various issues. He said that during this time, the island’s cooperative committees will also hold discussions on reviving their operations. The Media Incharge of A & N BJP unit Mr. M Vinod welcomed the media persons in the beginning. The Adhyaksha of South Andaman Zilla Parishad and the Chairperson of PBMC were also present during the press conference.
