Port Blair, Aug 23: The Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) team for the remarkable success of the CHANDRAYAAN-3 Lunar Landing, a historic achievement that has filled the nation with pride.

In a message to the ISRO team he said that the landing of CHANDRAYAAN-3 on the Lunar surface is a momentous milestone in the field of space exploration.

On behalf of the people of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, Member of Parliament, expressed admiration for the unwavering dedication, relentless commitment, and countless hours of hard work invested by the ISRO team to make this achievement possible.

“This accomplishment not only underscores the remarkable capabilities of ISRO but also serves as an inspiring example for future generations. The dedication and determination displayed by each scientist and staff member have contributed to the success of this monumental mission, he added.

The Member of Parliament commended the ISRO team for their outstanding achievements and extended gratitude for their remarkable contribution to the advancement of space technology and exploration.

John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Aug 22: The South Andaman district witnessed a significant upheaval as the Port Blair Municipal Council (PBMC) with the help of the District Administration and police jointly conducted an eviction drive targeting street vendors on Saturday night. The move resulted in the removal of around 22 street vendor stalls from their locations.
While the eviction itself was executed within the bounds of the legal framework, the manner in which it unfolded and its subsequent viral circulation on social media have stirred discontent among the public.
Reports reveal that some street vendors and their workers gathered in front of the PBMC office around 11 AM this morning. Supported by some public leaders, they demanded a permanent solution for street vendors’ predicament, including license approvals. They also sought the return of their materials that were confiscated during the eviction, citing damages and requesting compensation.
In response to the mounting tensions, Councillor of Ward Number 04, Mr. Abdul Islam, along with Councillor of Ward Number 19, Mr. V Vetrivelu, Councillor of Ward Number 10, Mrs. T Mangayakarasai, and Congress Leader Mr. Tamil Selvam, rallied in support of the vendors. Mr. Abdul Islam informed that discussions were held with PBMC’s Secretary, Dilkush Meena IAS today.
According to Mr. Islam, the Secretary reportedly provided a positive response and pledged to investigate the matter. Furthermore, the vendors were granted permission to conduct business for a limited three-hour period without disrupting traffic flow, ensuring order and discipline.
Meanwhile, the rise in the number of street vendors has triggered traffic congestion concerns, compounded by outsiders participating in these enterprises. While the necessity for well-regulated street vending practices is acknowledged, the abrupt removal of shops has raised questions. Calls for the Administration to establish robust guidelines, ensuring transparency and fair practices, have grown louder. This incident has sparked broader conversations about the need for a systematic and ethical approach to managing street vending activities.

Port Blair, Aug 20: To mark the World Senior Citizen Day a series of programs were organised today to honour and celebrate the esteemed senior citizens of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Member of Parliament of Andaman Nicobar Islands, Shri Kuldeep Rai Sharma, took the initiative to organize these special events aimed at acknowledging the invaluable contributions of the senior members of the society.

In a touching gesture of respect, Shri Kuldeep Rai Sharma led the efforts to honour and felicitate senior citizens hailing from various localities. The series of programs commenced with a significant event at Bhatu Basti, Ward Number 19, at 10 AM. This was followed by a gathering at the Haddo MP office at 11 AM, subsequently, the Hopetown Panchayat hosted another event at 3 PM. The day’s engagements continued with a session in Kaniyapuram at 4 PM, and the final event was held at the Ferrargunj Old-Age Home at 5:30 PM.

The programs witnessed enthusiastic participation from a multitude of esteemed senior citizens who graced the occasions, who engaged in interactions with Shri Kuldeep Rai Sharma, sharing their insights, experiences, and valuable perspectives. The Member of Parliament listened attentively to their thoughts, embracing the opportunity to understand their needs and concerns better. The events created an atmosphere of camaraderie and mutual respect, as Shri Kuldeep Rai Sharma extended his warm wishes and gratitude to the senior citizens.

 

John Wilbert &Vikramaditya
Middle Andaman, Aug 18: In a remarkable achievement that has eluded realization for over seven decades, the Jal Jeevan Mission, the flagship program of the central government, has successfully brought the supply of portable tap water to the remote Ullidera village under Shyamkund Gram Panchayat in Middle Andaman.
The accomplishment of this feat has garnered immense appreciation for the officers of the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD) and the leadership of Pradhan Gram Panchayat Shyamkund. Their dedication and commitment have culminated in the fulfillment of a long-standing demand that had remained unresolved for years.
Ullidera village, established in 1954, initially comprised 17 families who settled in the remote enclave of Shyamkund, located approximately 2.8 kilometers away from other parts of Middle Andaman.
The villagers had, for years, endured the laborious task of procuring water from considerable distances. This arduous chore, primarily performed by the women of the region, entailed frequent trips to the village well to gather water for drinking, bathing, cooking, and household chores. The situation became even more challenging during the dry summer months when water scarcity was particularly acute.
With the recent introduction of tap water supply facilitated through APWD water connections, the lives of the Ullidera village residents have undergone a transformative change. This much-needed resource is now accessible directly within their homes, easing their daily routines and significantly improving their quality of life.
Expressing his heartfelt gratitude, Mr. Narayan Mandal, the Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Shyamkund, extended appreciation to the Lt. Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Chief Secretary of the A & N Administration, and all those involved in making this long-pending aspiration a reality.
Mr. Mandal underscored the persistent efforts made over the years to highlight the importance of tap water supply for Ullidera village. During various official visits by dignitaries such as the Chief Secretary and District Commissioner, the necessity of this amenity was consistently brought to the forefront.
The village, which once had 17 families, witnessed a gradual exodus over the years due to its remote location and the challenges of survival. Presently, the village is home to only five families. “However, the introduction of tap water supply has reinvigorated the spirit of the villagers. They now experience a newfound sense of ease and convenience, as they no longer need to undertake the demanding task of fetching water from afar,” Mr. Mandal added.

Port Blair, Aug 17: Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, the Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands today held a meeting with the Director General of Police, A & N Islands, delving into two major issues related to the well-being of the police force in these Islands.

In the first issue discussed today, the Member of Parliament highlighted the Police Jawans’ Posting Conditions at Border Look Out Posts (BLoPs) and voiced his concerns regarding the challenging working conditions faced by the police jawans stationed at the Border Look Out Posts (BLoPs) scattered across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He applauded the exceptional dedication and commitment exhibited by these brave men, who execute their duties diligently even under the harshest of circumstances.

He mentioned that BLoPs such as Narcondum, Tillong Chang, Interview Island, East Island, Strait Island, Luis-in-Let-Bay, and Burmanallah are known for their inhospitable weather conditions and treacherous terrains. Despite these challenges, the police personnel stationed at these remote posts diligently carry out their duties, safeguarding the interests of the nation and its citizens.

He pointed out the recent extension of the posting durations to 60 to 90 days, as per Order No. 7666 dated 08 December 2022 and requested a reevaluation of the recent order, urging a return to the previous 30 to 45-day posting duration. He extended his heartfelt appreciation to the police personnel for their exceptional dedication and commitment to serving the region.

In the second issue the Member of Parliament brought up the issue of stagnation within the ranks of constables and head constables in the Andaman and Nicobar police force.

Drawing inspiration from a successful model implemented by the Delhi police, Mr. Sharma suggested adopting the Special Grade Designation system to provide incentives and motivation to constables and head constables without incurring financial implications.

“The Delhi police’s initiative, endorsed by the Director-General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), involves the grant of Special Grade Designation to constables and head constables who have completed certain qualifying years of service. This designation, offered without a corresponding financial upgradation, serves to motivate the police personnel and boost their morale,” he mentioned.

The Member of Parliament proposed a similar system for the Andaman and Nicobar police force, considering the benefits reaped by the Delhi police in terms of motivation and morale. By granting Special Grade Designation to constables and head constables, the force could address the issue of stagnation within these ranks and ensure timely promotions for deserving officers.

He urged the Director General of Police to personally address this matter, underscoring the positive impact it could have on the hardworking police jawans.

Trinath & Vikramaditya
Billiground, Aug 16: In a significant development, the police team at PS Billiground acted swiftly upon receiving an input about the cultivation of Cannabis plants in the residential area of Mr. Biswajit Halder, a resident of Duke Nagar village, Ward No. 2. The operation, conducted under the close supervision of Superintendent of Police (SP) Mrs. Geetanjali Khandelwal, saw the prompt arrest of the accused and the confiscation of the illicit plants.
The input, received earlier today, pointed towards the cultivation of Cannabis plants at Mr. Biswajit Halder’s residence. Responding to this information, Mr. Deepak Xaxa, SHO of PS Billiground, promptly assembled a specialized team comprising SI Manoj Lal, SI Smti Shilpa Dutta, HC Amrita Bawali, HC Pradeep Kr. Kindo, PC Anandh Kumar, PC Uday Kullu, under close supervision of Mr. Vishesh Dhatterwal, SDPO Rangat, and under overall direction of Mrs. Geetanjali Khandelwal, SP N&M.
With the necessary formalities completed and the directive from SP N&M, the police team swiftly proceeded to the location. After a thorough search, the team successfully located five Cannabis plants, each measuring approximately 1.30 meters in height, with a combined weight of 330 grams. The owner of the residence, Mr. Biswajit Halder, was taken into custody after due interrogation and completion of legal procedures.
The arrested individual is slated to appear before the Hon’ble CGM Court at Mayabunder for legal proceedings. The action has garnered praise from villagers and local PRI representatives who commend the police team for their swift and effective response in curbing anti-social activities and the illicit drug trade.

 

Port Blair, Aug 14: It is a matter of great honor and pride for A&N Police that four (04) of its officers have been conferred prestigious ‘President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service’ and ‘Police Medal for Meritorious Service’ for their illustrious and unblemished service on the occasion of 76th Independence Day, 2023. Apart from the above, 01 officer has been conferred with ‘Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Police Investigation-2023’ The awards were announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs on the eve of the Independence Day, 2023.

Mr. Sanjay Kumar Tyagi, IPS
Mr. Sanjay Kr. Tyagi, an IPS Officer of 2008 Batch, is currently holding the post of Dy. Inspector General of Police (Intl.). He has served in various capacities in Delhi Police. As DIGP (Intl), his innovative ideas and wide experience has brought reforms in overall working of A&N Police. In recognition of his hard work and dedication towards duties, he has been conferred the ‘President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service’.

Mr. Swapan Kr. Paul, SI
Mr. Sub-Inspector Swapan Kumar Paul initially joined A&N Police as Police Constable (Exe.) in the year 1989. He was promoted to the rank of Sub-Inspector in the year 2012 due to his hard work. He is currently working as Incharge of A&N Police Brass Band. He has shown laudable performance in his field. In appreciation of his good work and dedication rendered throughout his service career, he has been awarded with the Police Medal for Meritorious Service.

Mr. S. Viswanand, SI
Mr. S. Viswanand had joined A&N Police in 1994 as Constable and was promoted to the rank of Sub-Inspector on 11.06.2012. He has successfully investigated several heinous cases and made sincere efforts for disposal of case properties, completion of investigation in a time bound manner and proper documentation of records. Presently he is posted as In-charge Establishment of PHQ, where he is performing his duties with utmost dedication and professionalism. In recognition of his hard work and dedication towards duties, he has been conferred the ‘Police Medal for Meritorious Service.

Mr. G. Ravi, Head Constable/770
Mr. Mr. G. Ravi had joined A&N Police as Police Constable during the year 1992 and was promoted to the rank of Head Constable on 01.01.2023. He served at various units of Andaman & Nicobar Police and performed his duties with utmost dedication and sincerity. In recognition of his hard work and dedication towards his duties, he has been conferred the ‘Police Medal for Meritorious Service.

Mrs. Silpi Singha, Sub-Inspector
Sub Inspector Silpi Singha had joined A&N Police on 15.08.2014. She has consistently displayed outstanding performance with the highest sense of dedication towards duties and she has impeccable integrity. A case vide FIR No. 66/2021 dated 30/07/2021 U/s 5(m)(n)(l)/6 POCSO Act 2012 r.w.s. 506 IPC was registered at PS Pahargaon. She investigated the case in an exemplary manner. In recognition of her excellence in investigation, she has been conferred with the Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Investigation for the year-2023.
Mr. Devesh Chandra Srivastva, IPS, DGP, A&N Islands and all ranks of A&N Police complimented all the awardees for the distinctions conferred on them and bringing honor to A&N Police. They wished them success for their future career.

Port Blair, Aug 13: A seven year old male child was admitted in children ward with complaints of high grade fever with chills and rigor and pain in abdomen for the last 2 days. He was in an unstable condition in septic shock and was managed initially in the PICU by the Paediatric intensivists and the child was stabilized. Child was clinically found to have abdominal distension and an enlarged spleen. Hence, the child was referred for expert opinion to the Surgical Department.
The child was examined and evaluated by Surgeons with blood investigation and USG abdomen and contrast CT scan and was found to have a large splenic abscess with hemolytic anemic condition namely sickle cell anemia. Since the entire spleen was filled with pus and the child was already on high dose of antibiotics and not responding to it with continuous high grade fever with chills and rigor, the decision was taken for removing the splenic abscess by doing emergency splenectomy.
A team of Surgeons and Anesthetists headed by Dr. Saji Vargheese and Dr. Saras Sahoo and staff performed emergency Laparoscopic Splenectomy on Aug 3, 2023 through 5 key holes of 10mm and 5mm size which lasted for 3 hrs and the child was shifted to the Surgical ICU and recovered post operatively very well and the recurrent episode of fever and chills and rigor subsided completely. The child was discharged from the Hospital. It is pertinent to mention that such emergency major Splenic surgeries are performed only through conventional open method but in this particular case because of the availability of expertise it was performed through minimally invasive method at G.B. Pant Hospital/ANIIMS.

John Wilbert
Port Blair, August 11: In the aftermath of heavy rain accompanied by strong gusty winds, a huge tree branch of a Padack tree fell onto a residential house situated in the Sundergarh Panchayat, Faran Tekry region,Baratang. The house, constructed with bamboo mat and tin roof, sustained considerable damage due to the impact.
Mr. Rajesh Toppo, a resident of Sundergarh Panchayat, experienced the destructive force of the winds when his house suffered damages in the afternoon.
Upon receiving reports of the incident, the Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Sundergarh, along with fire tenders and forest personnel, swiftly reached the affected site to assess the situation and extend assistance. The combined efforts of the Fire and Forest Department teams led to the prompt removal of fallen logs from the roof of the house, ensuring its safety by evening.