Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept 25: The National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) initiative from Nasha Mukt Bharat Abbhiyan (NMBA) under The Directorate of Social Welfare proudly organized a felicitation ceremony. The event took place in the esteemed chamber of the Director of Social Welfare to honor Master B. Jaishish Kumar, son of Mr. B. Venkat Lav Kumar and Mrs. Poornima Mohan, along with his coach, Mr. N. Jagadeka Varma, for his outstanding achievement in winning a Bronze Medal at the ‘World Youth Muay Thai Championship’ held at Siam Paragon, Bangkok, Thailand.
The ceremony commenced with a heartfelt welcome speech by State Coordinator, UDID, who extended a warm greeting to Master B. Jaishish Kumar, his family, and all those in attendance.
Dr. Nitin Shakya, Director (Social Welfare), graced the event with his presence and delivered a stirring speech to honor Master B Jaishish Kumar. He extended his heartfelt congratulations to the bronze medalist for his exceptional achievement and for representing India with distinction on the international platform. He also took a moment to acknowledge and commend His family and coach for their invaluable guidance and support throughout his journey to success.
A special moment in the program was the felicitation of Master Jaishish Kumar with a shawl and a memento by the Director, in the presence of all the staff of the Directorate of Social Welfare. His parents and coach were also honored with shawls, recognizing their crucial support and guidance, symbolizing the respect and appreciation for his dedication and success in the ‘World Youth Muay Thai Championship’. The gesture served as a fitting tribute to the young sports person hard work and commitment to excellence in the sport.
The event concluded with an experience sharing by Master B. Jaishish Kumar, of his inspiring journey of success, hard work he invested and expressed his heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported him for this achievement.

Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept 25: Mr. Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal, IPS, Director General of Police, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, held a Sampark Sabha at the Drill Hall, Police Lines, to engage with Police officers and personnel stationed throughout the Islands. The session saw direct participation of over 400 Police personnel stationed in South Andaman District and personnel posted in all units and Police Stations in North & Middle Andaman and Nicobar Districts participated virtually.
During the interaction, some issues/suggestions were submitted by the personnel. Directions were given by the DGP for their prompt redressal and follow up action. He also welcomed suggestions from the personnel regarding welfare initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of the A&N Police Force.
In his address, the DGP emphasized the importance of courteous behavior towards the public, particularly while on law and order duties. He encouraged all personnel to perform their responsibilities diligently and sincerely, highlighting the role of Police officers as vital representatives of the force in the community. Special emphasis was given on the action against drugs, cyber crime and poaching. Police personnel were encouraged to deliver justice in both letter and spirit to the community.
Further, the DGP also gave away Commendation Certificates to the Police personnel of various units of A&N Police, who were chosen as the “Cop of the Month” for their exceptional/outstanding performance during line of duty. These included personnel instrumental in recovery of 2.075 kgs of Heroin, and conducting rescue operations in PMF and Fire Units.
The Sampark Sabha was a significant step towards nurturing open communication and ensuring that the needs and concerns of Police personnel are addressed effectively, reinforcing the commitment of A&N Police towards the community.

Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept 25: IGNOU Regional Centre Port Blair (Sri Vijay Puram) informs learners that the maximum validity of the learners registered for BDP (BA/BSC/BCOM)Programme in the January 2019 session is going to be completed in December 2024. That’s why Student Evaluation Division (SED), IGNOU will be conducting the final examination for all the eligible learners of BDP (BA/BSC/BCOM) Programme registered in January, 2019 in December 2024 Term End Examination (TEE). No TEE for BDP learners will be conducted after December 2024. That’s why all BDP Programme learners registered in the January 2019 session are advised to fill the examination form and appear for the exam at the chosen examination center. It is to be reminded that last date to fill the examination form without fine is 15th October 2024.The BDP learners who might face difficulty to submit their examination form through online mode can contact to Regional Centre office and submit their examination form with the help of staff at Regional Centre.For more details, regarding the programmes, fees, duration, please visit IGNOU website- www.ignou.ac.in or contact IGNOU Regional Centre, Port Blair located at opposite to AIR Cargo complex, VIP Road, Phone No: 03192-242888, 03192-230111 or Email: rcportblair@ignou.ac.in.
A communication from the Regional Director, IGNOU Regional Centre, Port Blair said.

Port Blair, Aug 23: Port Blair Guru Ki Rasoi [PBGKR], a leading organization dedicated to child welfare with Education Department successfully conducted an awareness camp aimed at sensitizing children against child abuse. The camp, held at the Auditorium Of Girls Senior Secondary School was specifically designed as a guide for teachers by Dr.Kushal Baidya, Psychiatrist ,Asst Professor, ANIIMS to help them effectively communicate with and educate children on the sensitive issue of child abuse.
The awareness camp, which took place on 23/08/2024, was attended by over 60 teachers and educators from various schools of the city.
The event focused on providing teachers with the necessary tools, knowledge, and resources to identify signs of child abuse and to create a safe and supportive environment for children to speak out against abuse.
Mr. Mandeep Grewal, Founder & President of PBGKR commented on the importance of the camp: “Teachers play a pivotal role in the lives of children and are often the first to notice when something is wrong. This camp was designed to empower educators with the knowledge and skills they need to protect children from abuse and to foster an environment where children feel safe to speak up.”
The camp is part of PBGKR’s larger initiative to combat child abuse and promote the well-being of children across the Islands. By focusing on education and awareness, the NGO aims to create a community where every child feels safe and supported.

Port Blair, Aug 23: In a proactive measure to protect public health, the District Administration, South Andaman has sealed one drinking water well and one bore well in Beodnabad village. This action was followed by an alert raised by the Central Ground Water Authority, Eastern Region, Kolkata, regarding groundwater quality for presence of Nitrate more than analysed parameter, issued on August 17, 2024.
The Revenue Officials of Port Blair Tehsil carried out the sealing to address concerns about groundwater contamination and to prevent any potential health hazards associated with using affected water sources.
The General public is advised to avoid using the affected water sources. The public are also encouraged to report any concerns or issues related to water quality to the local authorities.
In case of any inquires/complaints, the general public can communicate with the District Control Room at the following numbers 03192-240127/238881/1070/9531888844 (Whatsapp). The identity of the person providing the information will be kept secret so as to protect the individual.

Port Blair, Aug 13: The Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, Shri Keshav Chandra, IAS, today virtually inaugurated the newly constructed Helipad at Sagar Dweep village in Smith Island, North Andaman in the presence of Smti Dilraj Kaur, IAS, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Civil Aviation, Shri Vishwendra, Secretary Civil Aviation and other Senior Officers of A&N Administration.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Secretary congratulated everyone present and emphasized that availability of a Helipad at Sagar Dweep village will greatly help the Administration in providing the residents of this remote village with quick access to specialized medical treatment facilities.
Shri Aditya Kumar Asthana, Assistant Commissioner, Diglipur, Smti Anita Mondal, Pradhan, Keralapuram Gram Panchayat, other PRI members, local residents and Heads of Office of line Departments were also present on the occasion.
The Helipad has been constructed by APWD on an area measuring 1225 Sq.Mts (35 meters x 35 meters) in duration of about 20 months. The Helipad has been designed keeping in view all the safety parameters set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Govt. of India. Successful trial landing was conducted by Pawan Hans helicopter on 08.07.2024.

Port Blair, Aug 13: The Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman released the District Environment Plan today. It is designed to address and enhance environmental sustainability in the region. This comprehensive plan, a product of extensive research and community collaboration, aims to guide the district towards an Eco-friendly and robust future.
The “District Environmental Plan” provides a detailed framework for addressing key environmental challenges faced by South Andaman. It encompasses strategies for conservation, waste management, climate adaptation, and sustainable development. The plan is the result of a collaborative effort involving local government officials, environmental experts, and community stakeholders, reflecting a shared commitment to safeguarding South Andaman’s unique natural heritage.
Key Features of the District Environmental Plan:
• Conservation Initiatives: Detailed strategies for the protection and restoration of critical ecosystems, including mangroves, coral reefs, and tropical forests.
• Waste Management: Comprehensive guidelines for waste reduction, recycling, and responsible disposal to minimize environmental impact.
• Climate Adaptation: Proposals for enhancing resilience to climate change, including infrastructure improvements and emergency preparedness.
• Sustainable Development: Recommendations for integrating environmental considerations into urban planning, tourism, and local industry practices.
• Community Engagement: Programs to raise environmental awareness and encourage community involvement in sustainability efforts.
The DEP underscores the district’s commitment to not only preserving its natural beauty but also ensuring a high quality of life for its residents through sustainable practices.

Port Blair, Aug 13: As part of ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ Campaign, the Port Blair Municipal Council organized a Bike Rally which was flagged off from the National Memorial Cellular Jail by the Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, Shri Keshav Chandra, IAS, as the chief guest in the presence of the Member of Parliament, A&N Islands, Shri Bishnu Pada Ray here this afternoon.
The Chief Secretary and the Member of Parliament took part in the signature campaign. They also took selfie at the Selfie Point on the occasion. The program was also attended by senior Officers of the A&N Administration.
Over 350 bikers participated in the rally, which saw active involvement of PBMC staff, IRBn personnel and local citizens. The rally which commenced from National Memorial Cellular Jail proceeded to Bathubasti passing through Aberdeen Bazaar, Model School, Secretariat, Dairy Farm, School Line, Bathubasti and vice versa.

Port Blair, Aug 13: To accelerate the Island’s progress towards TB elimination, the TSG Charitable Foundation has distributed nutritional kits to 20 tuberculosis patients hailing from poor families who were undergoing treatment in UHC Delanipur, UHC Haddo and UHC Dairy Farm with an aim to provide them with essential nutritional support.
The kits were handed over to the patients by Mr. Dakshin Bhasker, Director, TSG Hotels & Resorts and Mr. Chiranjeet Das, Corporate General Manager, TSG Hotels & Resorts in the presence of several medical professionals.
The distribution of these nutritional kits will go a long way in ensuring that the patients receive adequate support to maintain good health and will undoubtedly make a positive impact on their overall well-being.