Port Blair, Jan 14: Lt. Governor, A&N Islands & Vice Chairman, Islands Development Agency, Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.) on his visit to North & Middle Andaman, inaugurated a double storeyed Inspection Bungalow of APWD at Long Island today by unveiling the plaque in the presence of Deputy Commissioner, North and Middle Andaman, Shri Ankit Yadav, IAS, AC, Middle Andaman, Ms Sapna Priya, Superintendent of Police, N&MA, Smti. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, DFO Middle Andaman, Dr Abdul Qayum, IFS, Pradhan Long Island, Shri B. Kamaraju, other officials and general public.
Soon after the inauguration, the Lt. Governor went round the building and saw for himself the facilities available in the new building. The EE, Rangat, Shri Denis informed the Lt. Governor that the new building has five rooms, dinning cum conference hall and all other basic amenities.
The Lt. Governor congratulated APWD for creating an asset in the form of an accommodation facility in this remote area. The Inspection Bunglow has been constructed incurring an estimate of more than Rs. 73 lakhs and the rooms have been named after the adjoining Islands of Long Island.
Earlier, on arrival at Long Island Jetty, the Pradhan, Long Island, Shri B. Kamaraju welcomed the Lt. Governor by presenting a flower bouquet. The DC, N&M, AC, Middle Andaman, SP,N&M and other Officers were also present on the occasion.

 

Port Blair, Jan 12: The meetings of the State Secretariat and State Organising Committee of CPI (M) was held at Shaheed Bhavan, Anarkali, Port Blair on 11th January, 2024 in presence of Mr. Prakash Karat and G. Ramakrishnan, Polit Bureau Members and Dr Sujan Chakraborthy, Central Committee Member of CPI (M). The meeting reviewed the political situation prevailing in the islands.
Mr. Prakash Karat, Polit Bureau Member briefly explained the international situation particularly the Israel attack on Gaza strip and the death of more than 23,000 innocent Palestine people. He also explained in brief the anti-people policies being pursued by the BJP government.
The State Organising Committee meeting reviewed the functioning of the CPI (M) in the islands and decided to expand party activities. The meeting further decided to carry on the agitation on various local issues.
The State Organising Committee has decided to contest the election from the lone Parliamentary seat in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. However, a final decision on contesting the seat will be taken by the CPI (M) Central Committee in its meeting scheduled to be held on 28 – 30 January, 2024.
Dr Gouranga Majhi presided over the meetings while D. Ayyappan, Secretary, State Organising Committee presented the report.

Port Blair, Jan 11: The Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, closely monitors the power situation of A&N Islands by taking a Review Meeting of senior officers of the Electricity Department every Monday of the week. Significant improvement in the power situation in the Islands has been made.
(1) 10 MW generation capacity at Bambooflat has been added to the grid during October 2023 to cater to peak demand as a result of which there is no load shedding at present.

(2) Subsequently, for redundancy in the generation system, another 5 MW capacity is expected in the next fortnight. This will meet any upcoming peak demand and avoid any power crisis in future.

(3) Apart from this, Relay Coordination work (time and current settings of relays) among all power houses and stations at Port Blair was taken up through an outsourced agency restricting faults to travel in power stations to avoid shutdown / collapse of grid in the event of feeders and tie line faults.

(4) Transmission & Distribution Network has been strengthened by installing new Distribution Transformers, Poles, HT/LT lines and old/dilapidated lines. As a result, feeders and line faults have reduced to a considerable extent. Numerous steps have been taken by means of tree / branch cutting, replacement of poles, wires and transformers with erection of new lines to minimize the forced power interruptions/outages.

(5) In the last two years more than 5000 new connections have been released. Although the Average Cost of Power Supply is Rs.42/unit, the consumers get supply at Rs. 2.5/ for less than 100 Units and an average @ Rs. 10/ unit therefore a subsidy of more than 75%.

(6) Concerted efforts were taken to increase the power supply hours from 12 Hrs. to 24 Hrs. in two tribal settlements at Dugong Creek, Little Andaman and Strait Island, South Andaman by augmenting the installed capacity.

(7) For seamless redressal of power related grievances of consumers and general public, a Centralized Control Room (CCR) has been established 24×7. A Toll Free No. 1800-345-1111 is functional at CCR 24×7 in the EMC building of the department for receiving the complaints. The complaints received at CCR are diverted through Consumer Complaint Handling Mechanism (CCHM) to the Concerned site offices for early redressal within the stipulated time period and daily reports are being monitored effectively.

(8) Recently, one 1500 KVA DG set shifted from Sita Nagar Power House to Swaraj Dweep to mitigate the power paucity of 2 MW due to sudden breakdown of two DG sets (2×0.808KW). The DG set started feeding power of around 1MW from 20.12.2023. Further, the engines of 2 DG sets under break down have reached Port Blair and shall be installed at Swaraj Dweep power house by mid of January, 2024 to add 1.2 MW capacity to meet the present peak demand.

For redundancy and in view of rise in peak demand, addition of 2 MW through hiring was proposed which is under finalization and expected to deliver power of 2 MW by June, 2024 after the approval of agreement by JERC.

(9) Further following Long term power solutions for A&N Islands with the support of the Ministry of Power are underway.

Inter connection from Mainland to Port Blair
In a Meeting held on 13.10.2023 in MoP the proposed HVDC interconnection of A&N Island by Central Transmission Utility of India Ltd. (CTUIL) with mainland through + 320 KV, 250 MW undersea cable was considered as the most economical solution which will bring down the present cost of power generation in A&N Islands considerably

Greening of Islands
Under green initiatives, the department has installed 29.23MWp Solar Power Plants (Ground mounted + Rooftop) in Port Blair, South Andaman and Car Nicobar. Greening of islands is a vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, and under RE plan, solar power projects of different capacities with Battery storage solution are under execution which includes 100 MW for South Andaman, 3.8MW for Swaraj Dweep, 1.3 MW for Shaheed Dweep, 5.7 MW for Little Andaman along with an aggregate capacity of 13.83 MW for Nicobar Group of islands. In addition, NIWE is undertaking WRA studies at various identified locations to explore wind potential for taking up wind power projects.
Rooftop Solar Project
Under Prime Minister’s vision of complete saturation of solarization, A&N Administration has set the target to solarize all Govt. Buildings through empanelled vendors in CAPEX mode by December 2024. In order to promote installation of Rooftop Solar Plant in all residential buildings, A&N Administration is set to undertake the execution through RESCO mode wherein all the households shall be installed with modular sized RTS plant by 2026. The commercial & other establishments shall be encouraged to solarize their buildings either in CAPEX/RESCO or through their own arrangement. The A & N Administration is committed to achieve 100 % saturation of the Rooftop Solar Plant within the targeted timeline.

Porty Blair, Jan 10 : Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, the Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has raised a pressing concern with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India, seeking urgent intervention for the commencement of Fixed Wing Aircraft Service in these Islands.
In a letter addressed to the Minister of Civil Aviation, the Member of Parliament emphasized the efforts undertaken by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration over the past years to initiate the Fixed Wing Aircraft Service between Port Blair and Diglipur, as well as Port Blair and Campbell Bay via Car Nicobar. He said that the administration has successfully completed the runway task, featuring a 1,000-meter runway at Diglipur and Campbell Bay, with the passenger hall already constructed for service at Diglipur.
He mentioned that despite these achievements, the project has faced unforeseen delays, hindering its progression and causing significant setbacks. He added that he believes the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s intervention is crucial to overcome the remaining formalities and paperwork obstacles efficiently.
Expressing confidence that immediate action can address these challenges, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma has requested the Ministry’s intervention in starting 19- seater fixed wing aircraft service in A & N Islands.
He said that the commencement of a regular 19-seater Fixed Wing Aircraft Service between Port Blair and Diglipur, as well as Port Blair and Campbell Bay via Car Nicobar, will bring tremendous relief to the residents of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, especially those in Nicobar District and the North Andaman region.

Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, January 8: A demonstration has taken center stage at Tiranga Park in Port Blair, where former members of the Andaman and Nicobar Ex-Home Guards have gathered to raise their voices demanding employment opportunities.
As the sit-in continues, it is clear that the participants are committed to persisting until their demands are acknowledged. There is even a possibility that the intensity of this demonstration may escalate to a hunger strike if the administration fails to address their concerns promptly, said agitating youths.
“Our demonstration aims to convey that we expect more from the administration. Our primary demand is that all ex-home guards, like ourselves, should be considered for recruitment. We have been grappling with unemployment for nearly two to three months, and there has been no response from the administration. That’s why we are all assembled here today,” said a youth.
“Sir, we diligently participated in the department’s duties, be it under the scorching sun or heavy rain. We have wholeheartedly supported the police department. However, we perceive a certain bias, and that is why we stand united in this protest. Our plea to the administration is straightforward – consider our demands. We merely want all ex-home guards currently protesting to be given due consideration. Each individual is distressed, each individual is unemployed, and none of us have a means of livelihood,” said another protestor.
Talking to Andaman Sheekha the protestors demanded to carefully consider their demands and promptly address their concerns.

Port Blair, Jan 07: On 27/12/23, two vigilant fishermen reported the presence of foreign nationals in the West Bay area of Katchal. In response, the anti-poaching team from PS Katchal promptly mobilized on 28/12/23. The operation resulted in the apprehension of 06 Myanmar Poachers on 28/12/2023, while few managed to evade capture within the dense jungle area. During intensive combing operation 02 more poachers were apprehended on 30/12/2023.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, a joint anti-poaching operation was formed, comprising personnel from the Police, IRBn, PMF, and the Aadaman Nicobar command. The unified force established a camp near Intona of the South Bay area. Following this success, on 30/12/23, a local resident of MRN Village, Katchal, reported observing 02 poachers approaching the Village area. In a swift response, the police party apprehended these 02 Myanmar Poachers, ensuring the safety of the local community.
Again, on 06/01/24 evening hours 02 more poachers were apprehended by the vigilant anti-poaching team. With this apprehension, a total of 10 Myanmarese poachers have been apprehended.
A continued search for the remaining poachers is underway in the South Bay area. The successful apprehensions demonstrate the effectiveness of coordinated efforts against illegal activities.
General public especially local fishermen and villagers are requested to pass on any credible information about presence of foreign/suspected persons to local police for immediate check of their credentials/apprehension. The successful collaboration between the local Police and civilian reflects a commitment to combat illegal activities in the region and preserve the ecological balance of emerald islands.

 

Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Jan 05: Mr. R Kalaivannan,IPS, the Superintendent of Police, South Andaman District today led a press conference and highlighted the achievements police in South Andaman District in 2023. Addressing the press conference he said that the focus was on law and order management and investigation aspects.
Firstly, in the law and order aspect, the police successfully managed all VIP movements, festivals, and functions throughout the year, ensuring peaceful arrangements. The district experienced an entire year without any law and order issues, showcasing the department’s effective arrangements.
In terms of investigation, the police registered a total of 1,109 cases last year, out of which 1,009 were actively pursued. An impressive 94% of these cases have been detected, including 32 heinous crimes such as rape, murder, attempted murder, and robbery. Notably, 31 cases were worked out among these, covering seven murder cases and 12 rape cases. The successful resolution of special act-related cases amounted to a total of 42.
During the press meet he gave the following details :
Efficient Handling of Narcotics, Excise and Wild Life Crime Cases:
• Registered 29 NDPS cases, leading to the arrest of 42 individuals and substantial seizures, including 20.255 Kg of Ganja, 242.494 kg of Methamphetamine, and 10 Cannabis plants.
• Registered 555 excise cases, resulting in 556 arrests and significant seizures, such as 2652.49 litres of IMFL, 56.5 litres of illicit liquor, and 1109 kg of handia.
• Destructed 10305 litres of premature liquor wash (Lehan), reinforcing the commitment to curbing illegal substances.
• 733.29 Kgs Venison, 3.85 Kgs Monitor lizard meat and 16.68 Kgs Wild Boar meat were also seized in respect of wildlife crime.

Traffic Regulation and Enforcement:
• Rigorously enforced traffic regulations, issuing 15,394 challans and collecting fines amounting to Rs. 90,38,200.
• Booked 1,287 individuals for drunken driving, emphasizing a zero- tolerance approach to road safety.

Legal Proceedings:
• Received 10,288 summons and served 8,725 of them.
• Received 2249 warrants and executed 1,731 warrants, ensuring the swift and effective administration of justice.

Maintaining Law and Order:
• Successfully maintained law and order, ensuring peace and security in the district.
• Seamlessly executed VIP arrangements and provided flawless security during various events.

Community Engagement:
• Conducted 615 awareness programs, covering critical issues such as POCSO awareness, Cybercrime prevention, and drug awareness.
• Facilitated 109 community interactions, fostering positive relationships through meetings with senior citizens, PRI members, and Fishermen watch groups.
• Tourist Police Kiosk was also launched at Cellular Jail to facilitate tourists coming to the historic site and provide assistance to them.
• Project AASHA- an anti-suicide initiative was started to provide counselling and to improve mental well being of the citizens.
Reflecting on these achievements, Mr. Kalaivanan R, IPS, SP South Andaman, stated, “Our success is a result of the hard work and dedication of our officers and the support of the community. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of our residents, solving crimes, and engaging with the community to build trust and cooperation.”
The South Andaman District Police looks forward to another year of service and collaboration with the community to create a safer and more environment for all, he added.

 

Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Jan 04: Street vendors operating shops in front of JNRM Boys’ Hostel gate today had a tough time as PBMC officials reached the area to evict them. The municipal employees, armed with trucks and crane, arrived at the site this afternoon to relocate the street vendors. However, a few vendors vehemently protested, citing concerns about their livelihoods while others reached PBMC office to stop this eviction.
The municipal officials argued that the presence of street vendors is hindering the Smart City project’s progress and causing traffic disruptions. They claim that the vendors are impeding ongoing development work sanctioned under the Smart City plan for construction of a walkway from JNRM gate to flag point.
On the other hand, the street vendors argued that they have not received prior notice from the Municipal Council about the impending action, and they are currently earning their livelihoods with these shops.
Amidst the arguments, the Municipal Council employees retreated from the scene after a strong opposition from the street vendors. The vendors insist that the Municipal Council should provide a fair notice period and consider their livelihoods before taking any such actions. The situation remains tense, with ongoing discussions and negotiations expected in the coming days.

 

Nishar Mohammed & V Nanda Kumar
Port Blair, Jan 03: A press conference was held at Sea Shell Hotel, Port Blair, on 3rd January 2024, to share the details regarding the eagerly awaited MahilaSammelan, “Shaktirupa Conference.” The event is set to take place on 7th January 2024, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Auditorium (PBMC), Mohanpura, Port Blair. The conference has already received substantial support, as the Chief Secretary of the A & N Administration, Mr. Keshav Chandra, has graciously consented to preside as the Chief Guest.
During the press conference, Dr. Poonam Arora, Ex-Chairperson of the Social Welfare Advisory Board and President of MahilaSamanvay, took the opportunity to unveil the significance of the upcoming event organized by MahilaSamanvay in Port Blair. Addressing the media, Dr. Arora highlighted the importance of the gathering, expressing her enthusiasm for its potential impact on the lives of women in the region. She extended a heartfelt invitation to all women residing in these islands, urging them to actively engage and participate in this groundbreaking event.
Dr. Poonam Arora highlighted that this initiative will serve as a pivotal platform to celebrate the essential role of women in uplifting society and the nation at large.
Mrs. Sunita Haldekar, Akhil Bhartiya Sahakaryavahika, Rashtra Sevika Samiti highlighted the significance of MahilaSammelans. She mentioned that over 93 conferences have taken place in the country, engaging around 144,000 women. She emphasized that these events occur at different levels, spanning from grassroots communities to a national scale. These gatherings aim to address crucial aspects such as women’s rights, education, healthcare, economic self-reliance, and holistic empowerment.
The organizers of the Shaktirupa Conference extend a cordial invitation to join and actively participate in this landmark event empowering and honoring the essence of womanhood, while supporting cultural preservation and modern values.