Port Blair, July 09: The Lieutenant Governor (HLG) had an engaging interaction with 28 probationary officers of the Indian Police Service (IPS), who are currently undergoing their training. This diverse and dynamic group of officers showcases the future of India’s law enforcement and governance.
During the session, the Lieutenant Governor was posed with a series of insightful questions by the probationers:
STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE OF GREAT NICOBAR ISLANDS PROJECT:

 The HLG elucidated on the visionary Great Nicobar Islands Project, explaining its objectives to enhance infrastructure, promote sustainable development, and improve connectivity. This project aims to boost tourism, create job opportunities, and fortify the region’s strategic value.
ADMINISTRATIVE AND DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES:

 The HLG outlined the key administrative and developmental priorities for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Focus areas include improving healthcare and education facilities, sustainable environmental practices, infrastructure development, and promoting socio-economic growth.
STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE OF ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS:

 The HLG highlighted the geopolitical significance of the islands, emphasizing their role in national security, maritime surveillance, and economic development. The islands are a crucial point for India’s defense strategy and international maritime routes.

In addition to the interaction, a comprehensive overview of the batch of probationary officers was presented.

The probationers, who have recently visited Vizag, are set to continue their training with upcoming visits to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences are a testament to the rich talent pool entering India’s civil services.

The interaction concluded with the HLG expressing confidence in the probationers’ ability to uphold the values of the service and contribute significantly to the nation’s development. The officers left with renewed inspiration and a deeper understanding of the strategic, security, and developmental priorities of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Deepak Kumar Singh

Port Blair, June 29, 2024: Speedwings Aviation Academy organized a vibrant fresher’s ceremony at Grillax, Bhatu Basti, welcoming new students with an array of engaging activities and performances. The event commenced with a warm welcome from Mr. Abrar, a faculty member at Speedwings Aviation Academy, who greeted both seniors and juniors.

Seniors prepared chits with tasks for the freshers, who enthusiastically performed on stage. The highlight of the event was the address by Shri R.K. Das, Director of Speedwings, who welcomed the new students and expressed gratitude to Ms. Ruchi, Mr. Abrar, and Ms. Sarika for organizing the event.

Mr. Das reminisced about his own fresher’s experience 30 years ago at JNRM and shared fond memories with his classmate, Mr. Anup Dutta, Editor of News Sangharsh. He emphasized the significance of aviation and the academy’s approval by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). He praised the establishment of such an institute on the islands, highlighting the convenience and cost savings for local students who no longer need to travel to the mainland.

Mr. Das also mentioned the newly available hostel facilities for inter-island students, further enhancing the academy’s accessibility. The event concluded with skits by senior students, addressing issues like extra luggage, banned substances, and passenger delays, followed by a vote of thanks from Ms. Sarika, who acknowledged the media’s coverage of the event.

Deepak Kumar Singh
When someone is in distress, it is our collective duty to extend a helping hand. Mr. Barun Sarkar, a resident of Bhat Basti, is facing an urgent and critical medical situation that requires immediate intervention. His financial condition is dire, and he is appealing to the public for assistance.
Mr. Barun Sarkar has been suffering from severe spinal issues that have left him unable to work or perform daily activities. “I have a severe spinal issue that needs surgery. I can’t bend, work, or even walk without immense pain,” he shared. His condition has deteriorated to the point where he requires a second surgery to address the problems in his upper spine.
Previously, Mr. Barun underwent a treatment for his lower back, but due to complications, only one of the two necessary surgeries was completed. “The doctor said two surgeries were needed, but only one was done due to complications,” he explained. Now, the upper part of his spine also needs an operation, adding to his physical and emotional burden.
Living alone with a young daughter, Mr. Barun’s struggles are overwhelming. “I have no one to support me financially. I can’t earn a living in my current state. Even providing basic necessities for my daughter is a challenge,” he expressed. His situation is compounded by the challenges of paying rent and providing food, making everyday life a daunting task.
Mr. Barun’s heartfelt plea is a cry for help. “I humbly appeal for any help you can provide. My phone number is 9476022182. Your assistance will not only ease my pain but also help me support my daughter,” he implored. “Please, any small help will make a big difference,” Mr. Barun continued. “Your kindness can save a life.”
Mr. Barun has been referred to Chennai for Operation under Ayushman Bharat Scheme but as it is known to everyone, under Ayushman Bharat neither patient nor attendant get Airfare reimbursement. Moreover all cost of medical tests has to be paid by the patient and hence he requires adequate cash for his treatment, which he doesn’t have.
As Mr. Barun navigates this difficult time, it is imperative for us to come together and support him. Every contribution, no matter how small, can significantly impact his life. Anyone interested to help Mr. Barun Sarkar can call and reach him at mobile number : 9476022182.

Port Blair, July 03: Mr. Ajoy Bairagi, State President, BJP A&N Islands, along with State Vice President Mr. M.Vinod and Dr R Dev Das, State Secretary, BJP A&N Islands called on the Director General of Police Mr. Devesh Chandra Shrivastava in his office and discussed various issues pertaining to public convenience like Traffic Congestion in the peak hours, Establishment of Children Traffic Park at Diglipur, Orgainising Various Sports related activities in and around Port Blair particularly to engage the youths in fruitful activities during evening hours and also to facilitate the visiting tourists.

The delegation also discussed the matter regarding the Home Guards pending from some time. The DGP reportedly gave very positive response and assured to resolve most of the issues in a time bound manner. The delegation extended gratitude to DGP for the patient listening and positive response.

 

Deepak Kumar Singh & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, July 02: Doctors Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Delhi Paramedical and Management Institute (DPMI) at Mansha Regency. The event, held from 5 PM to 8 PM, was graced by Mr. Sudeep Rai Sharma, Chairperson of PBMC, Port Blair, as the Chief Guest.
The program began with a welcome song performed by the second-year students of DPMI, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the Chief Guest and special delegates, including Mr. RK Das and Mrs. Tapati Das. Mr. RK Das welcomed Shri Sudeep Rai Sharma with a shawl and a book, marking the formal beginning of the event.
A series of cultural performances followed, starting with a classical dance by DPMI students. The Principal of DPMI, Mrs. Tapati Das, addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of the occasion. Awards were then presented to students for their exceptional academic performances.
One of the highlights was a dance promoting the importance of handwashing, performed by the students. Several students also shared their experiences about their course term at DPMI. Mr. RK Das, Director of DPMI, thanked the Chief Guest, delegates, and media personnel for their support and coverage of the event.
A skit on HIV awareness was performed, followed by more awards. A song dedicated to the hard work of doctors was sung, accompanied by a video package. Dr. Rohit from the Red Cross spoke about the crucial role of doctors and praised DPMI.
Mr. Sudeep Rai Sharma expressed gratitude towards doctors, especially for their efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, and appreciated the media for their essential role in informing the public. The event concluded with the Chief Guest and delegates presenting graduation certificates to the students, and everyone joining in the National Anthem.

 

Port Blair, July 01: Mr. Keshav Chandra, IAS, Chief Secretary, A&N Islands and Mr. Devesh Chandra Srivastva, IPS, Director General of Police, A&N Police of Andaman and Nicobar Islands virtually launched the Online Web Portal for Mutation & Demarcation, Integration of the Land Registration Portal with the Mutation Module, and Verification of Tenant/Domestic help which were much anticipated for enhancing digital accessibility and service delivery in the region.
The Web Portal is designed to provide residents with a one-stop platform to access a wide range of online services offered by the District Administration. This initiative aligns with the Administration’s commitment to leveraging technology to streamline processes and make public services more accessible and user-friendly.
In his inaugural address, the Chief Secretary, A&N Islands highlighted the importance of the Online Web Portal in public administration. He emphasized the convenience and efficiency that the services will bring to the residents of A&N Islands, stating, “This initiative is a testament to our dedication to improving service delivery through technology. The services will empower citizens providing them easy access to mutation and demarcation services, eliminating the need for physical visits, and saving valuable time and resources.”
This initiative is a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote digital governance and enhance the ease of living for the people of A&NI. The Administration remains committed to further improving and expanding the digital services available through the Web Portal. The Online Web Portal for Mutation & Demarcation and Integration of the Land Registration Portal with the Mutation Module has been developed by the National Informatics Centre, South Andaman District, and the verification of tenant/domestic help portal by SOVTECH.
The Online Web Portal for Mutation & Demarcation can be accessed through the URL http://db.and.nic.in/dweepbhoomi

Newly elected Member of Parliament from Andaman and Nicobar Islands Lok Sabha Constituency, Shri Bishnu Pada Ray called on Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), the Lt Governor, A&N Islands and Vice-Chairman, Islands Development Agency today at Raj Niwas.

Port Blair, June 18: The 2nd Andaman Tourism Road Show-2024, organized at Port Blair, Swaraj Dweep & Shaheed Dweep from 13th June to 17th June 2024, evoked encouraging response. The Chief Secretary, Andaman & Nicobar Administration, Mr. Keshav Chandra inaugurated the inaugural event at a prominent hotels in the city Mansha Regency, Phoneix Bay on June 13, 2024.
Organized by Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), in association with Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India, about 50 prominent tour operators of Ministry of Tourism, IATO, TAAI, ATOAI, ADTOI and delegates from various parts of the country participated. Social media influencers, travel bloggers/ travel journalists also participated in the Andaman Tourism Road Show, supported by all tourism stakeholders of A&N Islands.
Addressing the delegates, the Chief Secretary extended a warm welcome to all the delegates who have arrived here to participate in the Andaman Tourism Road Show. He said, Andaman is quite a discovery and the recent development has given the Islands a major thrust in the tourism sector.
Highlighting about the scope of tourism in the Islands, the Chief Secretary remarked that A&N Islands has much more in store in terms of diversity and activities in all its pristine glory. The Chief Secretary stated that A&N Islands is one of the prettiest places in the world having a Blue Flag Certification to one of its beaches. Five more beaches will soon be opened for tourists and the process for obtaining Blue Flag Certification for these beaches are in advanced stage and is being monitored on a weekly basis, he said.
The Chief Secretary stated that Tourism and Fisheries are the two important sectors and efforts are being made to propel these sectors further. The Chief Secretary informed that Cinque Island has been opened for tourists and urged them to visit the Island and enjoy the scenic beauty but keep the natural beauty intact at the same time.
The Chief Secretary also highlighted the initiatives of the Administration in giving further fillip to the tourism sector. He mentioned the scope of tourism which is being earnestly pursued by the Administration, so that people get to enjoy the uniqueness of the A&N Islands’ tourism viz. Natural Tourism, Night Kayaking, Luxury Tent, Caravan Tourism, Astro Tourism and Game Fishing.
The Administration is also working towards making Heritage Circuit Tourism a reality soon, he added. The Chief Secretary remarked that the Administration with the support of the GoI is committed towards promoting the Islands’ tourism by showcasing its uniqueness to the world.
The President, AATO, Mr. M. Vinod in his welcome address expressed hope that this Road Show will enable delegates and tour operators from mainland to experience the Islands’ beauty which offers a unique experience altogether and help promote ‘Brand Andaman’.
He said, the A&N Islands are a hub of adventure sports, unique flora and fauna, and virgin beaches are its unique selling points and urged the delegates to help promote Andaman Tourism as year round tourism destination. He expressed gratitude to the Administration and all tourism stakeholders for their support in organizing this road show which will further promote the Islands tourism across the country and globe.
The Chief Secretary also released the 20 years achievement book of AATO and launched the website of AATO on the occasion. He also went round the exhibits and interacted with the stakeholders. A video showcasing A&N Islands’ natural beauty and scope of tourism was also screened for the delegates.
During the four days event, tour operators and delegates visited Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep and other prominent places of historical and tourism importance to know and understand the potential of tourism in Andaman.