Sri Vijay Puram, January 10: The President of Living on the Edge (LOTE), Shri. Abhay Kumar, called on the Chief Secretary of A& N Administration today and submitted a formal representation, highlighting several pressing administrative matters and proposed solutions aimed at improving education, public welfare, and infrastructure in the region. The submission outlined nine key areas requiring immediate attention and innovative action plans to enhance the quality of life for the islanders.
1. Collaboration with VKV Schools
The proposal emphasizes utilizing under-used government school buildings through collaboration with Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya (VKV) Schools. Leveraging VKV’s renowned educational programs in these facilities would ensure better educational outcomes while maximizing available infrastructure.
2. Strengthening Air Connectivity
Acknowledging the critical role of connectivity, the submission urges the operationalization of Shibpur, Car Nicobar, and Campbell Bay airports for civilian purposes. Furthermore, it proposes the creation of an administrative air fleet with two 150+ seater and two 50-seater aircraft to boost inter-island and mainland connectivity.
3. Air Ambulance Services
The need for a reliable air ambulance service was highlighted to address emergency medical evacuations, especially from remote islands to Sri Vijay Puram and mainland India. This initiative would significantly reduce response times in critical health scenarios.
4. Revival of Gardening Classes in Schools
To promote environmental awareness and practical skills among students, the reintroduction of gardening classes was proposed. These sessions would instill values of responsibility, teamwork, and sustainability, benefitting both students and the wider community.
5. Splitting Summer Vacation
A unique approach to address the islands’ climate challenges was suggested—splitting summer vacation into two parts, in June and December. This adjustment aims to provide students and teachers with regular breaks, improving the learning environment and reducing fatigue.
6. Simplification of NoC Issuance
The existing process for obtaining No Objection Certificates (NoC) and Non-Incumbency Certificates from Tehsildars was flagged as cumbersome. Streamlining these procedures would improve administrative efficiency and reduce delays in property transactions.
7. Stable Power Supply for South Andaman
The erratic power supply in South Andaman has been a persistent concern. A guaranteed 65 MW stable power supply was proposed, alongside suggestions for adopting tidal, wind, and solar energy solutions to ensure uninterrupted power, especially during critical times like board exams.
8. Desalination Plants for Clean Water
To address water scarcity, the submission advocates for seawater desalination plants equipped with modern and energy-efficient technology. These facilities would ensure equitable distribution of clean drinking water and reduce dependency on freshwater reserves, especially during peak tourist seasons.
9. Recruitment of Pharmacists at ANIIMS
Despite the establishment of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences (ANIIMS), there is a significant shortage of pharmacists. Only two of the sanctioned 32 posts have been filled on a contractual basis. The administration was urged to expedite recruitment to address this gap.
As per reports, the Chief Secretary reportedly assured of taking appropriate action at an earliest in the larger Public interest.
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