Port Blair, Oct 29: The Lt. Governor, Andaman and Nicobar Islands met the newly elected members of the South Andaman Zilla Parishad and the Panchayat Samitis on Thursday. While stressing upon the members the need for being transparent and for serving the people, the Lt. Governor said that it is absolutely necessary to find ways and means of generating revenue to support developmental activities. He advised them to conceptualize community projects and go in for local, low cost civil construction for addressing problems such as poor sanitation, water logging and waste management. The collective interest must always override individual interest, he emphasized. He advised members that they must fulfil the aspirations of the people who have elected them but also ensure that the developmental process is not unnecessarily politicized, as it would impede smooth functioning and hinder development.
The Administration would welcome well considered and planned suggestions from the PRI members, for projects and developmental works.
In connection with the Annual Plan to be finalized by the District Planning Committee, the Lt. Governor asked the Adhyaksha, Smt Minati Biswas to ensure grassroots approach to planning works and projects for what is functionally and jurisdictionally within the powers of the DPC. With respect to such projects as were beyond the competence of the DPC but were necessary for the common benefit, the DPC was free to make recommendations which the Administration would seriously consider.
He pointed out that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a very successful social experiment in that there is overall social harmony, people are well educated and well informed, they are aware of their rights, and across all sections, young people are getting opportunities for self expression. The Lt. Governor assured PRI members that they could approach him whenever required, and that the Administration was in the process of organizing training session for the public representatives.
The Adhyaksha, Zilla Parishad, South Andaman, Smt Minati Biswas invited the attention of the Lt. Governor about crocodile attacks at Wandoor, the victims had not received any compensation and the rescuers should be considered for Bravery Award in recognition of service. The Lt. Governor directed that concerned Department to look into the matter immediately and provide the necessary relief.
