Port Blair, Oct 05: National Conference on Spices, Aromatic and Medicinal Plants for Economic Prosperity and Ecological Sustainability-2023 organized by Andaman Science Association (ASA), Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar Islands in collaboration with Directorate of Arecanut and Spices Development (DASD), Kerala from October 5th to 6th,2023 in hybrid mode was inaugurated today at ICAR-CIARI, Port Blair.
Ms. Nandini Paliwal, IAS, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Andaman & Nicobar Administration inaugurated the programme by lighting the ceremonial lamp on October 5, 2023 along with other dignitaries at Dr. T.R. Dutta Conference Hall.
Speaking on the occasion the Chief Guest Ms. NandiniPaliwal, IAS, appreciated efforts of ICAR-CIARI for extending opportunity to visit the campus to witness the cafeteria of technological demonstration in agriculture and allied fields along with landscape with endemic crops. Further she was happy to note that eminent speakers from mainland institute are delivering and sharing their experiences during the two days National conference on spices on the pertinent areas like new technology, pest management, post-harvest, value addition etc. She expressed that the research outcome is complete, when it is converted by the policy makers benefitting the farmers/ stakeholders. She emphasised that agri-horticulture activity should gratify farmers and motivate them to have balance with agriculture and tourism. Ventures should be economically viable so as to converge technology in policy, deliberate keeping Andaman as a case study to bring out the strategy and a compilation of best practices on post-harvest and value addition of spices as ready reckoner for policy makers. She concluded her speech by referring to the DFI of GoI, wherein the importance of spices is mentioned and to achieve the goal new ways have to be identified to ensure betterment of farmers with economic sustainability. She also released Souvenier of abstract and institute publications on the occasion.
Director, CIARI & President, ASA Dr. E.B. Chakurkar, informed that a spice being low volume and high value crop is of National importance. The recommendation from the deliberation of this conference will facilitate the A & N Administration to improve the status of the spice farmers by having a unique brand of Andaman and also add to the national exchequer.
Earlier The Guest of Honours Dr. Homey Cheriyan, Director, Directorate of Arecanut and Spices Development, Kozhikode, delivered keynote address on “Potential of Spices in Andaman & Nicobar Islands” and Dr. M. Madhava Naidu, Ex Head, CSIR-Central Food Technology Research Institute, Mysore on “Technological intervention: Value Addition of Herbs & Spices for Economic prosperity”.
Dr. R. Dinesh, Director, ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode, Kerala, Dr. Manish Das, Director, ICAR-Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research, Anand, Gujarat & Dr. Vijay Mahajan, Director, ICAR- Directorate of Onion and Garlic Research, Pune, Maharashtra, Dr. VinayBharadwaj, Director, Directorate of seed spices, Ajmer, Dr. K. Pradheep, Principal Scientist and OIC, ICAR- National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, Regional Station, Thrissur & Dr. K. B. Ramesh Kumar, Principal Scientist and SIC, CIF, Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala and delegates from A & N Administration attended the inaugural function. Beside around 150 participants from 22 states/ including UTs registered for the event in online and offline mode are participating, wherein a total of 120 research papers will be presented by the reputed researchers, academicians and scholars from across the Nation in two days’ period.
At the outset Dr. P.K. Singh, Principal Scientist, Head HCIP & Convener welcomed the august gathering, Dr. Ajit Arun Waman, Organizing Secretary proposed vote of thanks & Dr. Pooja Bohra, Co- Organizing Secretary coordinated the inaugural programme.
Archives for October 2023
A&N Police Secures Top Positions in ITSSO Rankings for Speedy Investigation of Sexual Offences
Port Blair, Oct 05: In a significant achievement showcasing the commitment of Andaman and Nicobar Police towards ensuring the safety of women and children, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police have secured an impressive No.2 position among Union Territories and a commendable 6th position among the States/UTs for the speedy investigation of cases related to rape and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) as per the Investigation Tracking System for Sexual Offences (ITSSO) portal.
The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2018 mandates that investigations in cases of rape, gang-rape, and offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act must be completed within a stipulated 60-day timeframe. To assess performance and compliance with this crucial legislation, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) initiated the ITSSO portal. This innovative system retrieves crime data from the State Data Centers (SDCs) of the Crime & Criminal Tracking Network and System (CCTNS), analyzing the data to monitor the aging of cases. The portal equips law enforcement agencies with role-based dashboards and reports to track investigations, enabling efficient allocation of resources where needed.
Expressing a deep commitment towards the safety and security of women and children throughout the islands, the Andaman & Nicobar Police have dedicated themselves to achieving the highest standards in the expeditious investigation of cases related to sexual offences. This accomplishment affirms the unwavering dedication of the Andaman and Nicobar Police in upholding the law and ensuring a safer society for all.
One day Hindi Workshop and various Hindi Competitions Organizes in PBMC
Port Blair, Oct 05: On the occasion of the celebration of Hindi Fortnight 2023, a one day long Hindi Workshop and various Hindi Competitions were organized in PBMC on 21.09.2023 and 22.09.2023. The Hindi Workshop was conducted by Ms. Anastasia, Retd. Hindi Officer of A & N Administration wherein she explained in detail about Hindi noting drafting, letter writing and Hindi translation of commonly used English words. Winners of various Hindi competitions were awarded cash prizes by Mr. Dilkhush Meena, IAS, Secretary, Mr. Abhishek Bhukal, DANICS, Joint Secretary, and Mr. V Jaya Kumar Architect, and Mr. Avinash Kumar Singh Superintending Engineer of PBMC. The Secretary, PBMC urged all the employees to maximize the use of Hindi in their official work.
Neglect Plagues Dollygunj Mini Stadium: Once a Hub of Activity, Now a Desolate Space
John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, October 04: The Mini Stadium at Dollygunj, once a bustling hub of sports activities in South Andaman, now stands as a stark testament to official apathy. Constructed to foster sporting talent in the region, this prominent facility has gradually lost its identity. Today, it wears a forlorn look.
The Mini Stadium’s dilapidated condition renders it unsuitable for sports activities. The interior ground is overgrown with grasses, while rusted iron beams dangle precariously. The stadium is no longer a safe space for any form of recreation. Even the stadium’s infrastructure has crumbled, according to reports.
Previously, students from ITI Dollygunj and Dollygunj Primary School utilized the ground, attracting hundreds of sports enthusiasts every weekend. Sadly, due to neglect by authorities, the stadium has languished in disrepair, remaining deserted throughout the year.
Moreover, during nighttime hours, the absence of proper fencing and lighting arrangements has turned the stadium into a haven for anti-social elements.
Mr. Dharmender Narayan, Senior Vice Chairman of the Port Blair Municipal Council, expressed concern over the deteriorating state of not only Dollygunj Mini Stadium but also Bird Line and Garacharama. He emphasized the urgent need for reconstruction and modernization, revealing that proposals for each stadium estimated at three crore rupees were pending due to funding constraints, leading to significant delays.
Member of Parliament demands appointment of well-trained coaches for all sports
Port Blair, Oct 04: The Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma has requested the Chief Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Administration to appoint a sufficient number of well-trained coaches for all the sports for children and youths of these Islands so that local sports talents receive professional guidance and training.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary, the Member of Parliament said that children and youths of these Islands are exceptionally good in the field of sports. In recent times, these talented young individuals have demonstrated exceptional prowess, not only at the national level but also on the international level.
However, he added that absence of proper coaching facilities, coupled with a shortage of qualified coaches across various sports disciplines, casts a shadow over the bright talents within our children and youths. Many of these gifted individuals remain undiscovered, their potential untapped, and their dreams unrealized, he added.
He mentioned that A & N Islands are in dire need of a well-structured plan to recruit and proficient coaches for various sporting events. “By appointing well trained coaches, we can ensure that our local sports talents receive the guidance and training they need from an early age, paving the way for future success not only at the national and international levels but also in their personal growth,” he said.
The Member of Parliament pointed out that investing in sports coaching facilities and the appointment of skilled coaches is an investment in the future of children and youths and the overall development of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Wasted Waters: Neglected Leaks in major pipeline Highlight Urgent Water Management Need
Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Oct 04: The South Andaman region grapples with a recurring issue of severe water scarcity every summer. However, post-monsoon, life usually returns to normalcy, and the memory of the struggle tends to fade. Together with the general public the Administration also takes things too lightly and the best example could be seen behind the campus of GSSS Rabindra Banga Vidyalaya, Port Blair where a leaking pipe of APWD has been waiting for repair for the last 15 days.
For the past 15 days, an APWD water service line has been leaking incessantly, despite registering multiple complaints on the central help number by a responsible citizen.
As per details after complaint, some officials visited the site, documented the leakage, but the issue remains unaddressed. Consequently, a significant amount of water is being wasted daily.
The APWD water service line that runs behind GSSS Rabindra Banga Vidyalaya demands immediate attention. Such negligence underscores the pressing need for the Andaman and Nicobar Administration to take water management more seriously.
MESSAGE
Dolphins are highly intelligent and charismatic aquatic mammals found in both marine and river habitats worldwide. These fascinating creatures play a vital role in marine ecosystems. But, today, the dolphin population faces grave threats from habitat destruction, pollution, over-fishing, and climate change.
Recognizing the profound importance of dolphin conservation in maintaining the ecological balance of our waters and understanding its tourism potential as a means of stimulating the local economy, the Government of India has designated October 5th as National Dolphin Day.
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands with great enthusiasm and hope joins the nation in celebration of the 2nd National Dolphin Day on October 5th, 2023. The Department of Environment and Forests has diligently planned a series of programs, involving various stakeholders from our society. This collective effort is aimed at promoting responsible practices and protection of these magnificent marine animals along with their habitats.
I earnestly call upon all my fellow residents of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands to unite with the nation in embarking upon yet another ambitious journey in the field of Environment & Biodiversity Conservation so as to safeguard our marine biodiversity, particularly the dolphins. Today, let us pledge to protect and conserve their habitats in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Jai Hind !
(Admiral D.K. Joshi)
PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.)
Lt. Governor, A&N Islands
& Vice-Chairman, Islands Development Agency
NSUI State President seeks attention towards the Burning issues at JNRM Girls Hostel
Port Blair, Oct 04: The National Students’ Union of India State President, A & N Islands Mr. M.A Sajid has demanded for opening and renovations of the Blocks built under the premises of Girls Hostel, JNRM.
In a letter addressed to the LG, A & N Islands, Mr. Sajid said that despite the completion of the construction of New Blocks in JNRM Girls Hostel, the building premises remain unoccupied, leaving many students in a state of distress.
He added that “Many girl’s students from Inter-Islands face’s several difficulties and hardships in finding suitable accommodation facilities at the Hostel premises, which negatively impacts their focus on studies and overall well-being”.
Additionally, Mr. Sajid mentioned that the Ganga Block established inside the Girls Hostel Campus of JNRM is in a disputed condition, meanwhile the tender and allotment for the renovation work of Ganga Block has been granted to the Contractor but till no work has been started so far.
Considering the facts, He has further requested to expedite the necessary processes and preparations required to make the hostel fully functional and also request a timeline for the development of the JNRM Girls Hostel Blocks.
N&M Andaman District Police Continues its Action against Bootleggers and Drug Peddlers
Port Blair, Oct 04: Continuing its crackdown on the illicit liquor, Handia, illegal sale of IMFL & illicit drugs, the District Police of North & Middle Andaman with the help of local informers conducted regular raids and searches in jungles. During the month of September-2023, the teams of various Police Stations, headed by SHOs and Sub-Inspectors conducted raids & massive jungle search operations. In these search operations, around 850 litres of lehan, 19.5 litres of illicit liquor & 37 Kgs Handia was destroyed. Also, 42 Nos. cases under Excise Regulation have been registered in which 227 Nos. IMFL bottles of different quantities have been seized and 42 persons were arrested. All the History Sheeters are regularly being checked by the beat staff, making it hard for them to be involved in any illegal activity and a fresh history sheet of bootleggers has opened for surveillance. Moreover, the District Police arrested two persons under NDPS Act and seized 5.138 Kg of illicit ganja from them.
The general public is requested to pass and share any credible information pertaining to any crime or illegal activities to their nearest Police Station or over phone No.100, 112 & 03192-273344. The identity of the informers will be kept secret and will also be suitably rewarded.
LOTE’s Island Badminton Championship 2023 Concludes in Grand Success
KANYAPURAM, Oct 04: The 1st edition of LOTE’s Island Badminton Championship 2023 which was organised by Living on the Edge – LOTE in association with Lifeline Multispecialty Hospital Chennai, with immense enthusiasm and excitement at the Multipurpose Indoor Stadium, Kanyapuram, from September 30th to October 2nd, 2023, witnessed an impressive gathering of badminton enthusiasts and players showcasing extraordinary talent and sportsmanship.
The event commenced with an inaugural ceremony graced by eminent personalities. Mr. Sanjay Kumar Singh, Adhyaksh, Zilla Parishad, honoured the occasion as the Chief Guest, emphasizing the importance of sports in community development. Mr. Sanjay Balan, CEO Vikalp, and Patron of LOTE, was present as the Guest of Honor, recognizing the significance of promoting sports initiatives in the region. Mr. Sudhansu Sengupta, a renowned Cycling Coach, brought his expertise to the event as the Special Guest, inspiring participants with his presence.
A total of 94 participants, competing in 12 different categories, showcased their skills and determination, making the championship a thrilling experience for spectators and players alike. The competition was fierce, reflecting the dedication and hard work of the athletes involved.
The closing ceremony on October 2nd, 2023, was graced by distinguished guests. Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, Member of Parliament, A & N Is. honoured the event as the Chief Guest, acknowledging the talent displayed by the participants and the efforts put in by the organizers. Mr. Sanjay Balan, CEO Vikalp, continued his support as the Guest of Honor, reinforcing the commitment of LOTE towards encouraging sports and fitness activities in the community.
The entire championship was conducted under the visionary leadership of Mr. Abhay Kumar, the Founder President of Living On The Edge – LOTE. His dedication and passion for sports have been instrumental in making this event a resounding success.
Mr. Aditya won the Men Open Final while Mr. Anshad was the runner up in the category while Miss. A. Anitha was the winner and Miss. Shwetha was the runner up in the same category.
The Men Doubles open was won by Mr. Aditya & Mr. Gautam while Mr. Pandi Raj and Mr. Balwant were the runners up while Miss. A. Anitha & Miss. A. Rachel were the winners and Miss. Pooja & Miss. Arshada were the runners in the same category.
In the Under -19 Singles, Mr. Jitin Raj was the winner while Mr. Anukesh finished as Runner up. Under -19 Doubles Men Category the pair of Mr. Jitin Raj & Mr. Raheem defeated Mr.Anukesh & Mr. Sarib. In the Girls under 19 categories Miss. A. Anitha was the winner while Miss. Y. Lakshya was the runner up.
Master Harshit was the winner & Master Akshit was the runner in the Boys Under -14 categories while Miss. Priyadarshini was the winner & Miss. Deveshi was the runner up in the same category.
In the Men above 35 categories the pair of Mr. Rajesh & Thirumurugan defeated the pair of Mr. M. Yoosuf & Mr. Zanpear. In the Men above 45 categories Mr. M.Majid & M.Yoosuf defeated the duo of Mr. Thiruna & Mr. Alagar to lift the cup in their category.
The organizers extend their gratitude to all participants, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters for their unwavering support, which played a vital role in the success of the championship. LOTE is committed to continuing its efforts in promoting sports and fostering a spirit of healthy competition in the community.
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