Vijay Kumar & Vikramaditya
Togapur, Jan 05: Residents of Pahalgaon village and Chainpur Panchayat staged a roadblock protest in Togapur yesterday, demanding the cancellation of recent transfer orders for two government doctors currently serving at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) Togapur. The PHC is the only major healthcare facility catering to patients from Chainpur, Hanspur, and nearby areas.
Villagers praised the exceptional treatment and compassionate behavior of the two doctors, highlighting how their dedicated service has significantly improved healthcare in the region. They expressed concern that transferring these doctors would severely impact the quality of medical care provided at the PHC.
The Deputy Commissioner of North and Middle Andaman, Mrs. Nandini Maharaj, reportedly arrived at the protest site to address the situation. She listened to the grievances of the villagers and acknowledged the validity of their concerns. As per reports, Mrs. Maharaj assured them that she would raise the issue with the Health Secretary and the Director of Health Services (DHS) to seek a resolution.
Other Senior officials from Mayabunder also attended the site to maintain law and order situation during the protest. However, the villagers warned that they would wait until Wednesday for a resolution, failing which they would be compelled to escalate their protest with an even larger demonstration.
Lt. Governor Meets Union Home Minister to Discuss Strategic Projects for A&N Islands
Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 03: Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), the Lt. Governor, A&N Islands and Vice-Chairman, Islands Development Agency on visit to New Delhi called on the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah this afternoon. As Vice Chairman of Islands Development Agency, discussed strategies with the Home Minister, Chairman, IDA for speedy and efficient implementation of Strategic Projects decided during the 7th IDA meeting Chaired by the Home Minister earlier today. Key focus areas included Mega Projects in the Tourism, Hospitality, and Infrastructure sectors, particularly new proposals in Little Andaman.
Police Nab Two People in Rangat with Illicit Ganja on New Year Day; Nearly 67 Grams Seized
Nishar Mohammed
Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan. 02: In a swift operation, Rangat Police intercepted a young man in possession of illicit ganja near a water tank in Parnashala, Rangat, following a tip-off from a reliable source on 1st January 2025.
As per FIR, at around 3:56 PM, credible information was received that the accused, identified as Mr. S Ram, a 19-year-old resident of Parnashala, was attempting to sell ganja in the area. Acting promptly, the information was passed to Shri Rahul L. Nair, IPS, SDPO (Rangat), who directed the formation of a raiding team.
The team, led by SI Abdul Sajeed, included HC Rushkeshwar Rao, PCs K. Samir, Yashwant Rao, Sameer Dey, and LPC Sumitra Halder. Equipped with an electronic weighing machine and necessary documentation, the team proceeded to the location. At the appropriate moment, the police intercepted the accused and conducted a thorough search of the accused.
A personal search of Mr. S Ram revealed a white polythene bag containing a suspicious substance in his pant pocket. The substance, suspected to be ganja, weighed 44 grams.
Meanwhile, after interrogation of Mr. S Ram the Police team was able to arrest one more person linked to this case and from his possession nearly 23 grams of Ganja was seized, it is learnt. More details are awaited.
Minister of State for PSW visits Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec. 30: The Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Shantanu Thakur visited the Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works office on 30th December 2024 to review the functioning of ALHW and its role in the development of port infrastructure in the Islands. Upon the Hon’ble Minister’s arrival, ALHW welcomed the Minister with a bouquet and ‘Sal,’ after which the Minister planted a tree as a token of remembrance.
ALHW presented its contributions to the Islands through a PowerPoint presentation, outlining the progress of ongoing projects. The Hon’ble Minister instructed ALHW to complete the projects on time and ensure their dedication to the public for use. The Minister also emphasized the need for ALHW to focus on creating landing facilities in Virgin Islands for development, implementing all major projects through the PPP mode, establishing a ship repair hub on the Islands, constructing floating jetties at tourism destinations, and undertaking retrofitting measures for old jetties. The Hon’ble Minister stressed the importance of prioritizing the creation of necessary supporting infrastructure in the existing harbour to ensure the timely completion of the Galathea Bay International Container Transshipment Port (ICTP) project.
13th Shaheed Swaraj Dweep Samooh Naman Yatra: Commemorating Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s Historic Flag Hoisting and India’s Freedom Struggle
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 30: The 13th Shaheed Swaraj Dweep Samooh Naman Yatra, organized by the Shaheed Swaraj Foundation, from 27th – 30th December 2024 at Sri Vijaya Puram, to commemorate the historic first-ever hoisting of the Tricolour on Indian soil by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose on 30th December, 1943. The event saw the participation of around sixty nationalists from various states of India, alongside local islanders, who participated in several programs and tours under the leadership of Mannaniya Indresh Kumar, Margdarshak of the Rashtriya Suraksha Jagran Manch (Forum for Awareness of National Security (FANS)).
The Yatra journey began on 27th December 2024 at the Chinmaya Mission in Port Blair, where a seminar focused on national security, patriotism, and the history of India’s freedom movement was held. The seminar served as a platform for attendees to reflect on the importance of unity and collective action in preserving the nation’s heritage.
On 30th December participants gathered at the Andaman Club to honor the sacrifices of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose and all India’s freedom fighters. The event continued to uphold the ideals of patriotism, sacrifice, and unity, leaving all attendees with a renewed sense of pride in the country’s history.
Mannaniya Mr. Indresh Kumar, in his address, emphasized the profound significance of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s sacrifices and the historical importance of 30th December in India’s freedom movement. On this day in 1943, Netaji hoisted the Tricolour for the first time on Indian soil at the Gymkhana Ground, now known as Netaji Stadium, in Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair). This act declared the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as the first Indian territory to be liberated from colonial rule.
As a pivotal figure in India’s independence struggle, Netaji not only raised the national flag but also established a government in exile, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the cause of liberation. This historic event marked a turning point in India’s fight for freedom.
To honor this occasion, a commemorative function is held annually at Flag Point on December 30, where the national flag is hoisted in tribute to Netaji’s unparalleled contribution. Mr. Indresh Kumar underscored the importance of preserving Netaji’s legacy and raising awareness of the sacrifices that shaped India’s independence, ensuring they continue to inspire future generations.
The 13th Shaheed Swaraj Yatra concluded with a deep sense of national pride and unity, reaffirming the commitment of all attendees to the values of patriotism, sacrifice, and solidarity.
Mr. Girish Arora, President of Shaheed Swaraj Foundation, Andaman & Nicobar Chapter, expressed that, the Shaheed Swaraj Foundation continues to play a pivotal role in organizing initiatives that promote national awareness and pay profound tribute to the contributions of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and other revered heroes, whose sacrifices have been instrumental in securing the nation’s freedom.
Nitin Gadkari to Lay Foundation for Chatham-Bambooflat Bridge in Four Months: Bishnu Pada Ray
Vikramaditya
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec. 29: A recent video released on social media features Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, the Member of Parliament of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, addressing the islanders from the Andaman House in Kolkata. He shared key updates regarding developments in road infrastructure following the visit of Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Mr. Nitin Gadkari.
In the video, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray revealed that during a high-level meeting at Port Blair recently, it was decided that Mr. Gadkari would lay the foundation for the much-anticipated Chatham-Bambooflat Bridge within four months. The bridge, a vital infrastructure project for the islands, will be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹3000 crores.
Mr. Ray also stated that discussions during the meeting included updates on other critical projects. The Minister reportedly assured that the Baratang Bridge would be completed within two years, significantly easing transportation in North and Middle Andaman region. Additionally, officials from the NHIDCL and contractors confirmed that the construction of the NH4 stretch from Baratang to Diglipur would be completed in approximately 1.5 years.
However, the visit of Mr. Gadkari has raised eyebrows among some residents. Many expressed disappointment over the lack of a public meeting or press conference during his visit. Locals had hoped the Minister would travel along the NH4 stretch beyond Baratang to witness its condition firsthand, but reports indicate no such plans were made.
Lighting the Way: Harinagar Residents Celebrate Installation of Electric Poles and Streetlights
Rabindranath Biswas
Harinagar, Dec. 27: The residents of Ward No. 6, Harinagar Village, under Gram Panchayat Harinagar gave a smile of deep satisfaction and relief as their long-pending demand of installation of electric poles with streetlight cables along the 800-meter-long CC road in the area has finally been fulfilled recently.
According to information, there was a significant milestone for the residents of Ward No. 6, Harinagar Village, under Gram Panchayat Harinagar, as their long-pending demand has finally been fulfilled. Talking to Andaman Sheekha Daily, Shri Manojit Halder, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Harinagar said that the residents of Ward No. 6, Harinagar village had been demanding for erecting electric poles and drawing streetlight cables on them along the 800-meter-long CC road stretching from ATR (NH-4) to Shri Dulal Baroi’s house as the residents had to face a lot of hardships in absence of the electric lines in the area. However, residents were reportedly very happy to see the electric poles erected and overhead cables drawn for electrification in the area, the Pradhan said. The relentless efforts and regular correspondence over the past two years by the Pradhan to this effect and the dedicated efforts of the newly posted Assistant Engineer (Electricity) Mayabunder Shri Kalidas Mazumder and Shri Prasenjit Samadder Junior Engineer Nimbudera altogether yielded the fulfillment of this long cherished demand of the residents, Mr. Halder added. Furthermore, expressing his deep gratitude, the Pradhan further said that there was unwavering support of the officers from the A & N Administration and the Electricity Department.
This accomplishment not only enhanced the infrastructure of Harinagar but also ensured better lighting and safety for its residents, the elated Pradhan further added.
20th Anniversary of 2004 Tsunami: Lt. Governor Leads Tributes at Memorial Service in Sri Vijaya Puram
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec. 26: Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), Lt. Governor, A&N Islands & Vice Chairman, Islands Development Agency today led the Islanders in paying homage to those who lost their lives in the devastating Tsunami of 2004.
At a solemn function organized by A&N Administration on the occasion of 20th Anniversary of Tsunami at the Tsunami Memorial at Water Sports Complex here this morning, the Lt. Governor placed wreath and offered floral tributes at the Memorial. This was followed by offering of floral tributes by the First Lady of A&N Islands, Smt. Chitra Joshi, DGP, Shri H.G.S Dhaliwal, IPS, PCCF, Shri Sanjay Kumar Sinha, IFS, Senior Vice Chairperson, SVPMC, Shri. V. Ravi Chandran, Councillors of SVPMC, Senior Officers of A&N Administration, prominent citizens, school students and general public.
An all Religion Prayer Meeting (Sarva Dharma Prarthana Sabha) and a two-minute silence was observed to remember those who have lost their lives in the devastating Tsunami.
Proud Moments for A&N Islands: Recognitions at the Atal Foundation Samman Samaroh
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 24: The Atal Foundation Samman Samaroh, organized by the National Atal Foundation on 20th December 2024 at the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, New Delhi, marked a historic day for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Three exemplary individuals from our region were honored with prestigious awards, bringing pride to our community and setting a benchmark for nation-building efforts.
Mr. Casper James – Atal Bhushan Award
Mr. Casper James, Tehsildar, was conferred with the Atal Bhushan Award for his extraordinary contributions to Historical Tribal Social Networking. His work has fostered social harmony, empowered tribal communities, and bridged historical gaps through innovative approaches. This recognition is a testament to his relentless dedication to the inclusive development of tribal communities.
Mr. K. Ramdas – Atal Bhushan Award
Mr. K. Ramdas, State General Secretary of BJP, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, was also honored with the Atal Bhushan Award for his exceptional dedication to social welfare and his pivotal role in uplifting the seashell handicrafts industry. His efforts have empowered countless artisans, driving sustainable growth and preserving our cultural heritage.
Mr. Awez Khan – Atal Gaurav Samman Award
Mr. Awez Khan, founder of Experience Andamans, received the Atal Gaurav Samman Award for his significant contributions to the tourism sector in the Andaman Islands.
MV Sentinel Reaches Car Nicobar Anchorage for Inspection After Collision Incident at Mus Jetty
Car Nicobar, Dec. 23:Passenger Vessel MV Sentinel, arrived at the Car Nicobar Anchorage this evening. Tomorrow, the vessel is expected to berth at the port, where MMD surveyor will board to inspect the ship and potentially grant a single-voyage permission to sail for Sri Vijaya Puram from Car Nicobar.
The ship had collided with Car Nicobar’s Mus Jetty on December 19 during berthing. A technical issue reportedly caused the ship to lose control, resulting in a moderate-speed collision. The bow of the vessel sustained damage, but fortunately, there were no injuries to passengers onboard.
After completing repairs on December 21 at Nicobar Port, the vessel resumed operations with the support of a private company, DRA, which provided free manpower, materials, and boat services. DRA, currently engaged in airport extension and resurfacing work at Nicobar Islands, played a crucial role in enabling the ship’s onward sailing.
The upcoming inspection by the surveyor is expected to determine whether the MV Sentinel can safely complete a single voyage to Sri Vijaya Puram by crossing 10 Degree Channel, for which sea worthiness is necessary sources told Andaman Sheekha Daily.