Rabindranath Biswas
Calicut, April 07: The Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Calicut, South Andaman, Shri Yaghambaram T, has raised a host of issues regarding the shortcomings of the Electricity Department’s infrastructure in areas under his jurisdiction.
According to information, there are several pressing electrical infrastructure issues in Calicut Ward Nos. 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, and 08, which pose serious threats to public safety and disrupt the daily lives of residents.
Speaking to Andaman Sheekha Daily, the Pradhan said that many of the electric poles in these areas are reportedly old and rusted, making them structurally weak and vulnerable to collapse. This condition poses a severe risk, especially during adverse weather conditions such as storms. He added that electric cables are dangling dangerously in these areas, creating hazards for both human and animal life.
In fact, the poles are reportedly installed too far apart, causing electric lines to sag, and streetlights are also placed at large distances, which has led to visibility and safety issues for the public. Due to the dangling electric cables, the risk of electrocution or accidental contact is especially high for children, pedestrians, and animals that roam freely in the locality.
There is also reportedly a shortage of electric poles, which further aggravates the safety risks. On the other hand, the existing transformers are often inadequate to meet the growing power demands of the residents. This leads to frequent power outages and voltage fluctuations, Shri Yaghambaram claimed.
Loose or exposed cables are reportedly another recurring issue in these areas. These cables are not only prone to electrical faults but also pose a potential fire hazard and electrocution risk, the Pradhan said. What is particularly troubling, he noted, is that despite repeated requests to the concerned officials of the Electricity Department, no significant steps have been taken to improve the infrastructure.
Shri Yaghambaram has written a letter to the Secretary (Power), A&N Administration, Sri Vijaya Puram, apprising him of these issues and urging him to instruct the Electricity Department to take immediate action to ensure the safety of residents. However, the situation reportedly remains unchanged, he said.
Expressing deep concern over the dilapidated condition of the electrical infrastructure, the Pradhan warned that the approaching rainy season could worsen the already precarious situation, potentially putting the department in a difficult position and causing serious inconvenience to the public.
Hindu Seva Sangh & HRS organise Massive Ram Navami Rally from Chuna Bhatta to Chouldari
Neeraj & Vikramaditya
Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr. 7: On the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami, a grand rally was organized by Hindu Seva Sangh in collaboration with Hindu Rashtra Shakti, marking a vibrant display of devotion and unity. The rally commenced from Chuna Bhatta and concluded at Chouldari, attracting a massive turnout of over 6,000 participants.
Devotees from various parts of the region joined the procession in large numbers, travelling in both four-wheelers and two-wheelers, waving saffron flags and chanting slogans like “Jai Shri Ram” with full fervor. The rally was conducted in a peaceful and organized manner, with participants demonstrating great enthusiasm while celebrating the birth of Lord Ram, the revered incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Organizers expressed gratitude to the devotees for their discipline and cooperation, which ensured the smooth conduct of the event. The occasion was not only a spiritual gathering but also a significant cultural celebration, showcasing the rich heritage and unity of the Hindu community in the region. Local authorities extended support to facilitate the rally, ensuring traffic management and public safety throughout the route.
The Shobhayatra culminated at Chouldari ground, where Bhavya Aarti was performed by the local residents and Basanti Pooja commitee, followed by mass Hanuman Chalisa chanting.
Shri. Abhay Kumar, Convener, HSS or (Organizers) thanked the A & N , Police under the supervision of SDPO, Bambooflat , Chief Engineer, APWD , DreamDzyner & RightClick for the support and cooperation.
Launch of “Adventures of Amu, Shelly, and Oli” – A Children’s Book on Marine Life in Coral Reef Ecosystems
Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr 07: Adventures of Amu, Shelly and Oli – a story book for children on the marine life in coral reef Ecosystems was launched today at the ITF Grounds during the book fair.
The book has been written by Samhita Veda Acharya and the illustrations have been done by N. Akash.
The book was launched by Mr. Mohammed Hussain (diver and nature enthusiast), Mr. Promotho Mazumder (sculptor), Master Aarav Narayan and Mrs. Kanak Radha Chatterjee (elder sister of Ms. Acharya).
The launch event was anchored by Ms. Gauri.
Mr. Hussain in his speech said that a lot of effort has gone into this book and many late nights he was awakened by Ms. Acharya to enquire about marine life forms
Mr. Promotho mentioned that we humans have a responsibility towards the marine world and this book is a step towards that.
Mr. Akash described his journey of bringing the book to life by constant inputs from Ms. Acharya and Ms. Samhita the author mentioned that she was inspired to write this book because she hadn’t studied anything about the species of Andamans in her school books and she wanted to fill the vaccum.
The event was attended by book enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Devotional Spirit Marks Grand Ram Navami Celebrations in Diglipur
Rabindranath Biswas
Diglipur, April 07: Ram Navami was celebrated at Shree Shree Ram Temple, Navin Nagar Diglipur yesterday. The celebration started with “Abhishekham” at 05:00am and “Dhwaj Pujan” at 07.30am. Hawan was performed with Ramayana recitation at 09:00 am while Maha Aarti was offered at 12:00 noon. After these puja performaces, the Ram devotees were given prasadam as annadanam which at 12.30pm and continued till 2.30pm.
As part of the celebration, Shova Yatra started at 03.00pm from Ram Mandir which proceeded slowly along the street to main Bazaar then it stopped at Mariyam Mandir and Shree Shree Dakheena Kali Mandir where Arati and Dhwaj puja were performed. From Kali Mandir the Yatra further proceeded to Shree Shree Radha Govinda Temple where Arati and Dhwaj puja were also performed and the Yatra moved ahead and reached Shree Shree Murugan Mandir where the Arati and Dhwaj puja were performed in the same manner. From Murugan Mandir the yatra ultimately went back to Shree Shree Ram Mandir. After reaching Ram Mandir, Bhajan & Sandhya Aarti was performed at 06.30pm and prasaad was also distributed. A huge number of devotees wore saffron clothes and participated in the Shova Yatra who loudly chanted “Jai Sree Ram” etc.
Ram Navami marks the celebration of the birth of Lord Ram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that He was born on Navami Tithi during Shukla Paksha of the Hindu month of Chaitra. This year, it was celebrated on April 06.
Ram Navami was organised by Vanavasi Kalyan Ashram, Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Bajrang Dal & RSS, VKA President, Shri Shyam Sunder Singh said.
JNRM Botany Students visit Sippighat School
Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr 07: Students of M.Sc. II and IV Semester from the Department of Botany, JNRM, organized a special outreach program on 4th April at Govt. Middle School, Sippighat, under the Village Adoption Program initiative.
Guided by faculty members Mrs. Rashmi Janak and Ms. Shalini, the event featured various creative and educational activities. Students of the school enthusiastically participated in drawing and painting contests, quiz competitions for both junior and senior levels and witnessed a live demonstration on wonders of the microscopic world.
In addition, a lecture-cum-interactive session ignited curiosity among the young learners. Topics such as The Magic of Trees, GI-tagged Products of the A & N Islands, Microplastics and Biofuels introduced students to environmental awareness and local heritage.
As a step towards promoting sustainability, fruit tree saplings were distributed to the students. In a generous gesture inspired by the student’s dedication, Ali Store, Sri Vijaya Puram, donated 100 notebooks for the school children.
Prizes were also distributed to the winners of various competitions, making the event both educational and memorable for the students.
Braille Book Distribution at Andaman Nicobar Book Fair
Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr. 7: In a significant move towards inclusive education and accessibility, the Department of Education, A&N Administration in collaboration with National Book Trust (NBT), organized a special Braille book distribution drive at the ongoing Andaman Nicobar Book Fair in Sri Vijaya Puram today.
The event was graced by Swamy Omkaratmanandaji Maharaj of Ramakrishna Mission, Sri Vijaya Puram and the Director (Education), A&N Administration, Shri Vikram Singh who jointly underscored the value of accessible learning resources for all.
The Director (Education), in his address, highlighted the critical role of Braille Books in empowering visually impaired students and called upon the National Book Trust to extend its cooperation further to meet the growing demand in the Islands. He appreciated NBT’s efforts on inclusive education and expressed the Administration’s willingness to collaborate closely in this noble cause.
Swamy Omkaratmanandaji Maharaj also shared his thoughts on the spiritual and educational empowerment that inclusive knowledge fosters, praising NBT’s initiative as a step towards building a more compassionate and enlightened society.
A collection of Braille Books, including academic materials, children’s stories and biographies were distributed to the visually impaired students, as well as to Schools and Educational Institutions serving visually impaired learners.
The initiative received an overwhelmingly positive response from the local community, educators and students, marking a proud moment in the ongoing journey toward ‘Books for All’.
e-Shram Portal Open for Platform Workers; Labour Dept. Urges Timely Registration
Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr. 7:The Ministry of Labour & Employment, GoI, New Delhi, has proposed a nationwide Campaign from April 7 to 17, 2025 to organize ‘Special Registration Camps’ for the registration of Platform and Gig Workers. The term ‘Platform Worker’ refers to an individual engaged in a work arrangement outside of the traditional employer-employee relationship, wherein organizations or individuals use an online platform to access other organizations or individuals to solve specific problems or provide specific services, or any other activity as notified by the Central Government, in exchange for payment. Similarly, a ‘Gig Worker’ is a person who performs work or participates in a work arrangement and earns from such activities, also outside of the traditional employer-employee framework.
This initiative aligns with the Union Budget 2025-26, which announced the registration of platform & gig workers on the e-Shram portal, issuance of identity cards, and the extension of health benefits under Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY).
As part of the campaign, the Labour Department, A&N Administration, has urged all Platform and Gig Workers in A&N Islands to register themselves on the e-Shram portal via the link: https://register.eshram.gov.in/#/user/platform-worker-registration. The workers who are unable to register themselves online may visit the Labour Department, Sri Vijaya Puram, on any working day for assistance with registration. For clarifications, queries, or registration support, one may contact over phone no. 03192-230157.
Skill Training on Handicrafts Concludes at Namunaghar, Empowers 20 Trainees
Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr. 7:The Directorate of Industries, A&N Administration, successfully conducted a 15-day short-term skill development training program on ‘Handicrafts (Coconut Shell, Wooden, and Cane & Bamboo Products)’ at Namunaghar Gram Panchayat from March 17 to April 7, 2025. The initiative aimed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge in handicrafts, fostering self-employment opportunities and contributing to the local economy.
The valedictory function held today was graced by PRI members, with Shri Y. Venketeshwar, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Namunaghar as chief guest. He commended the Directorate of Industries for aligning training with local market demands and offering comprehensive support services to ensure sustainable growth. He encouraged participants to utilize their newly acquired skills for self-employment and enhancing their livelihoods.
During the event, Shri R. Janak Rao, Industries Promotion Officer from the Directorate of Industries, provided an overview of various schemes implemented by the Department to support training initiatives, promote MSMEs, and generate employment. A total of 20 trainees participated in the program, showcasing their dedication to learning and applying practical skills.
This program underscores the Administration’s commitment to empowering local communities through skill development and promoting economic self-reliance.
Police Recover Crucial Evidences in Sahadev Dey Murder Case
Vikramaditya
Diglipur, April 06: In a significant breakthrough in the brutal murder of digital media journalist Mr. Sahadev Dey, the Andaman & Nicobar Police has recovered key evidences believed to be directly linked to the crime. The deceased was the Chief Editor of a prominent digital news channel, Republic Andaman and his murder on the night of March 29, 2025, has sent shockwaves across Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
According to sources, the Diglipur police unit, during a field investigation on Friday, led the accused persons to main accused Mr. S. Gangaiah’s Campus at DB Gram village, where the victim’s body was allegedly disposed of by burning.
In the presence of the forensic team, the police recovered what is believed to be the murder weapon from a room. Also discovered at the site was a charred wristwatch, reportedly belonging to the victim.
Further investigations and intense interrogation of the accused led the police to Kerala Junction near Mayabunder, where the victim’s missing bag was yesterday found hidden under a culvert. The bag contained crucial items, including Mobile phone, Personal diary, News channel ID (logo) and Other personal documents.
Police believe the suspects deliberately hid the bag to mislead investigators and give the impression that the victim had voluntarily disappeared from the Mayabunder region.
Meanwhile, the arrested individuals have been identified as Mr. S. Gangaiah (48), s/o S. Salapathi, resident of RK Gram, Diglipur, Mr. Rama Subramanian, s/o Alagu, native of Sivagangai District, Tamil Nadu, currently residing at DB Gram, Mrs. Bitika Mallik (38), w/o Binoy Biswas, resident of Kalipur, Diglipur and Mr. Ramesh (45), s/o Murugeshan, resident of DB Gram. According to police sources, all four accused have confessed to their involvement in the crime.
The police are now preparing to produce the accused in court tomorrow and are expected to seek judicial custody (JC) for further investigation.
A&N Islands to Host First-Ever FIDE Rapid Rating Chess Tournament Under Floodlights
Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr. 6:The Directorate of Education and the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs A & N Administration, in collaboration with the Andaman Nicobar Chess Association, is set to organize the first-ever FIDE Rapid Rating Open Chess Tournament- ‘The Andaman-Nicobar Chess Mahasangram 2025’ in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The tournament will take place on April 19-20, 2025, at Netaji Stadium, Sri Vijaya Puram, in Open Ground, under Floodlights. This event is open to all players, providing participants with the opportunity to earn official FIDE Rapid Ratings, a great chance for chess enthusiasts to gain recognition and boost their rankings.
There is no entry fee for the tournament; however, AICF Registration for the year 2025-26 is mandatory for all participants. The last date for registration is April 12, 2025, by 5.30 PM.
For new AICF registration of the players; please visit: https://prs.aicf.in/new-register. For renewing AICF registration of the existing players: Please Visit: https://prs.aicf.in/players
Interested parents, schools, students, chess players, and enthusiasts are invited to register themselves to participate in the tournament through the given link; Google Form Link: https://forms.gle/9CqueRoyGhRNKkpG9. For any assistance, please contact @9434293379/9679593366 or 9434298424 or 8870442325 or email@sportsectionpb@gmail.com.
- 1
- 2
- 3
- …
- 67
- Next Page »