Port Blair, Nov 19: The Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma has raised urgent concerns regarding the challenges faced by the fisherfolk community in Baratang Island. In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Member of Parliament has demanded immediate action on several crucial matters affecting the daily lives of the fishermen.
The key issues highlighted by the Member of Parliament include: Construction of Floating Fiber Jetty: The Member of Parliament emphasized the necessity of constructing a floating fiber jetty at Khari Basti Nilambur Ward No. 01 to ensure the safety of fishermen, who currently face the risk of crocodile attacks while accessing the blacktop road.
Construction of Fishing Net Mending Shed: To address space constraints, he has urged the construction of a fishing net mending shed at Khari Basti Nilambur Ward No. 01 between the houses of Shri Ramesh and Shri Dharma.
Construction of Fish Landing Jetty: The absence of a fish landing (slopping) jetty poses challenges for fishermen in unloading their catches. The Member of Parliament has called for the initiation of the construction of a fish landing jetty at Khari Basti Nilambur Ward No. 01.
Construction of Water Tank: He has requested the immediate construction of a water tank with a capacity of 2000 liters near the proposed fish landing jetty to address the lack of water facilities.
Providing Fishing Equipment: The Member of Parliament has urged the Fisheries Department to provide fishing nets and other materials directly to the fishermen in accordance with government norms.
Provision of Timber: To facilitate the repair of dinghies, he has called for the intervention of the Forest Department in providing necessary sawn timber to the fishermen.
Allotment of Land: He advocated for the allotment of land to fishermen residing in Khari Basti Nilambur Ward No. 01, emphasizing the benefits it would bring to the impoverished community.
Regular Visits by Fisheries Inspector: He proposed regular visits by the Fisheries Inspector to Baratang Island to understand the actual problems faced by the fishermen community.
The Member of Parliament requested immediate attention and intervention from the Chief Secretary to address these pressing issues and improve the livelihoods of the fisherfolk in Baratang Island.
Archives for November 19, 2023
The Public Alert: Unregistered Vehicle Violations under Strict Scrutiny
Port Blair, Nov. 19:The general public have been informed that plying of unregistered vehicles is a serious violations of Motor Vehicle Laws and the provisions provided in the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 are as follows:
Section 39 of MV (A) 2019: No person shall drive any motor vehicle and no owner of a motor vehicle shall cause or permit the vehicle to be driven in any public place or in any other place unless the vehicle is registered in accordance with the Chapter IV (M V Act) and Certificate Of Registration of the vehicle has not been suspended or cancelled and the vehicle carries a registration mark displayed in the prescribed manner. Provided that nothing in this section shall apply to a motor vehicle in possession of a dealer subject to such conditions as may be prescribed by the Central Government.
Section 192 of MV (A) 2019: Whoever drives a motor vehicle or causes or allows a motor vehicle to be used in contravention of the provisions of Section 39 shall be punishable for the first offense with a fine which may extend to five thousand rupees but shall not be less than two thousand rupees for a second or subsequent offense with imprisonment which may extend to one year or with fine which may extend to ten thousand rupees but shall not be less than five thousand rupees or with both.
The Rules 50 and 51 of Central Motor Vehicles Rule 1989 prescribe the specifications/the manner of displaying the registration marks in the form of security license plate and size of letters & numerals of the registration mark. Violation of Rule 50/51 of CMVR 1989 is punishable with a fine of Rupees 500/- under Section 177 of the MVA Act 2019.
The general public and motor vehicle owners have been advised to comply with the provisions to avoid any action mentioned above.
Andaman Fire Service Acknowledged for Swift Response
Port Blair, Nov 19: The MES Builders Association of Andaman and Nicobar Islands recently expressed gratitude to the Andaman Fire Service for their commendable efforts during the two fire accidents reported on Diwali eve. In a gesture of appreciation, a letter was handed over to SSP Fire Varsha Sharma IPS and Mr. SandeepDANIPS DySP Fire. The Chairman, ,Secretary, Mr. And the members of MESBAI presented the letter, acknowledging the hard work and swift response of the fire service in preventing further damage during the unfortunate incidents.
ANTCC President demands immediate Compensation to the Fire Victims of Phoenix Bay and Dairy Farm area
Port Blair, Nov 19: The Andaman Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee President Mr. Rangalal Halder demanded immediate Compensation to the fire victims that occurred on the eve of Diwali, 12th November 2023, resulted in a devastating fire incident at Phoenix Bay and Dairy Farm area.
While addressing a letter to the Lieutenant Governor, A & N Islands, Mr. Halder said that the aftermath of this incident has left the shop owners and families in a state of distress and despair, struggling to rebuild their lives and to overcome the emotional and financial burden
placed upon them.
He stated that the livelihoods of the shops cum-residents have been affected, making it crucial for the affected persons to receive assistance during these challenging times as they are in urgent need of financial aid to recover from this unforeseen tragedy.
He mentioned that “Compensation could assist in addressing their daily needs, such as accommodation facilities, essential supplements, medical assistance, and all other necessary support required to the affected persons”.
Considering the light of this devastating incident, he has further requested for immediate support in initiating compensation for the fire victims of the area to recover and rebuild their lives, providing a glimmer of hope in this difficult time.
Pensioners Association Welcomes Decision to Extend CGHS Benefits to UT Pensioners
Port Blair, Nov 19: The Government Pensioners’ Association, Andaman & Nicobar Islands took up the matter with the Government of India for extending the CGHS facilities and CS (MA) Rules, 1944 to Pensioners of Union Territories.
The specific prayers which were made to Govt. of India are as under:
1. To look into the matter afresh and issue another OM in simple and clear terms allowing reimbursement of the medical claim to the pensioners and their dependant family members residing in the UT of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
2. To allow the claim of airfare of the patient (pensioners) with an attendant.
3. To settle the claim of medical reimbursement of the pensioners through the department where they last served under CS (MA) Rules, 1944.
4. To reconsider the decision of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare taken in 2017 to exclude the pensioners of UTs from CGHS and allow all the pensioners including the employees retiring from UTs and presently settled in different State/UTs to avail the benefit of CGHS without any discrimination.
Accepting the representations of this Association and the judgements in CAT cases filed by some of the former employees of A & N Administration, the Government of India, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has now issued OM No. Z.16025/03/2021/CGHS-III/EHS dated 13.11.2023 to restore the CGHS facilities to the Pensioners of UT of A&N Islands. This Association welcomes and appreciates the above decision of Govt. of India. However, the other demands, especially the reimbursement of medical treatment cost and airfare for the benefits of pensioners settled in A&N Islands, are still pending with the Govt. of India.
This Association is duty bound to carry on the above demands and, therefore, will continuously strive to make it to its logical end. Cooperation of all members in this regard is therefore sought for the future endeavor including agitation.
TSG Bhasker congratulates all candidates of A&N Islands who cleared MTS & Other Group C examination
Port Blair, Nov 19: ANTCC Campaign Committee Chairman Mr. TSG Bhasker has congratulated all candidates of Andaman & Nicobar Islands who have successfully cleared the MTS & Other Group C examination.
In a message Mr. Bhasker said “I am proud of the youngsters of Andaman & Nicobar Islands for their hardwork and determination. It’s been a long hard road, but you accomplished your goal and passed the exam”.
He also congratulated the parents and teachers of the candidates for their monumental role in their success.
“For the aspirants who didn’t quite get the results as you wanted, don’t be too disappointed and don’t be too hard on yourself. Keep studying hard and you will accomplish your goal in the coming examinations. We will always be there to support you”, conveyed Mr. Bhasker.
ANTCC President seeks attention to fill up the Vacant Posts in Andaman Public Works Department
Port Blair, Nov 19: The Andaman Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee President Mr. Rangalal Halder has demanded to fill up the vacant posts of Andaman Public Works Department.
In a letter addressed to the Lieutenant Governor, A&N Islands, Mr. Halder said that a significant number of key positions in APWD are currently vacant, hampering the department’s ability to function optimally.
He stated that there are approximately 15-20 vacant positions for Executive Engineers and 35-40 vacant positions for Assistant Engineers in the APWD as these vacancies not only impact the operational efficiency of the department but also pose challenges in meeting the infrastructure development needs of the Islands.
He also added that “the promotions to the existing employees of APWD have also been pending for the past years, during which they await confirmation and recognition of their accomplishments which is crucial for fostering a positive work environment, ensuring that employees feel valued and motivated to continue contributing within the workplace.
He further mentioned that “the timely filing of these vacancies will not only address the current workload but will also contribute towards providing employment to numerous unemployed youths of the A & N Islands”.
Considering the urgency of these matters, Mr. Halder has requested for immediate intervention and action for filling these key roles with competent individuals and granting promotion to the employees for the overall departmental progress and development of our Islands.
Cybercriminals Blackmailing Citizens after Intimate Video Calls
Port Blair, Nov 19: Sextortion is a form of blackmail where cybercriminals threaten to share intimate images of the victims online unless they give in to their demands. While sextortion can be perpetrated by individuals, organised crime is often behind it when the blackmailer demands money. The blackmailer may be based in India or outside the country. Both men and women can be victims of this crime.
In this regard, Andaman and Nicobar Police issue the following advisory to safeguard yourself:
1. Avoid replying to unknown video calls, unknown friend requests, and messages from unknown numbers. Similarly avoid sending friend requests to people you do not know.
2. Avoid sharing your phone number online with anyone unless you know the person well.
3. Avoid sharing intimate photos or videos with others on social media or other messaging apps, as these may be used for blackmailing.
4. Keep a record of all contacts from the blackmailer(s), particularly any demands or threats and make a note of everything you know about them for reporting purposes.
For assistance, information or enquiries, please contact: Cyber Cell, Port Blair, over Cyber Helpline No. 9531856083 or visit cybercrime.gov.in.
Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebrated in befitting manner at Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Port Blair
Port Blair, Nov 19: In commemoration of 148th Birth Anniversary of great tribal freedom fighter Dharti Aaba Bhagwan Birsa Munda which is also being celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas and to mark this occasion a week long programmes were organized by the Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Port Blair and a concluding function was organized on 15th November, 2023 at its premises.
Floral tributes were paid to the portrait of Bhagwan Birsa Munda to honor him and other tribal freedom fighters as well on celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas. In this regard, an Exhibition showing pictorial presentation of tribal freedom fighters was also set up for display for the public. On this occasion Mr. Rajesh Kumar Puria, President, Vanvasi Kayan Ashram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands welcomed the chief guest of function Dr. Shiv Shankar Singh, MD, G. B. Pant Hospital, Port Blair. The chief guest speaks about the life of Bhagwan Birsa Munda by highlighting a call to take inspiration from him.
As a part of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebration Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Port Blair organized various week long cultural events like Rangoli, Chauki, Painting, Drawing, Essay Writing, and Speech competitions and Sports viz. Kho-Kho and Kabaddi. The winners and runners – up were felicitated by various prizes. In this programme Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, A&N Islands also felicitated Dr. Ankit Toppo for being the first Gold Medalist in the MBBS- 2016 batch of ANIIMS, Port Blair from Chota Nagpuri Community and Mr. Olake was felicitated for being the first Civil Engineer in APWD, A & N Administration from the Great Andamanese Community and expressed the happiness for their achievements. Mrs. Sumari Munda from School Line and Mrs. Basi Sanga Munda from Brookshabad were also felicitated for their valuable contribution in social services among the Vanvasi Community. This event was made more remarkable with the presentation of Munda tribal folk dance. Mr. Rajesh Kumar Puria, President, Vanvasi Kayan Ashram lights upon the life of Bhagwan Birsa Munda as a main speaker and the programme concluded with vote of thanks to the gathering by Ms. Sampatti Xalxo, General Secretary, Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
NSKS affiliates with ANRKM conducts Safai Mitra Sammelan at Tiranga Park
Port Blair, Nov 19: The service association of Port Blair Municipal Council, Nagarpallika Swachhtha Karmachari Sangh (NSKS) affiliated with Andaman Nicobar Rajya Karmachari Mahasangh (ANRKM) conducted Safai Mitra Sammelan on 18.11.2023 at Tiranga Park. The programme was conducted to address the issues of sanitary workers. The State Vice President, Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, Mr. Ram Pyare Yadav inaugurated the Sammelan by lightning the Lamp and giving floral tribute to Maneeniya Dattopant Tengadi and Maa Bharati. Mr. Jaydeep Kumar Dey, President, ANRKM welcomed the gathering and addressed to stay unite for achieving all demands of the Safai Mitra. He reiterated that the “Hum Mazdoor Hai lekin Majboor nahin”. Mr. Subramaniam, Joint Secretary, NSKS described that the achievement of 1/30th was the strength of the unity and further the facilities is also increasing day by day on the demands for the working class. He presented that it was communicated that Bonus will not be paid and after taking up the issue and with the support of all employees proposed for Gate meeting for releasing Bonus, it was released to all employees account on Saturday night. This is the strength of Unity of us Safai Mitra. Mr. Santosh Kumar, Treasurer addressed the audience in Telugu about the achievement of the organisation in larger interest of the Safai Mitra and pressed for the implementation of the schemes of National Commission for Safai Karmachari.
Mr. S. Biju Pillai, General Secretary, ANRKM pressed for the implementation of the draft scheme submitted by them to Lt. Governor in saving all working class either they are on contract / DRM or outsourcing basis but undertaking regular nature of works for more than 5 years considering the regularisation subject to completion of 10 years continuously as per various State’s / UTs Regularisation schemes. Further the omission of Contractual employees for consideration under the proposed directions of Supreme Court needs to be changed which is affecting the working class of Shipping Services and meagre number of employees of other departments under Administration. Similarly, the employees serving for the Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works were not granting any benefits of Labour Legislations for which very soon a protest was organised to bring them under the direct umbrella of ALHW instead of paying through Contractor since 1989. Mr. Vijay Kumar, Vice President, ANRKM expressed gratitude to the Administration for extending few facilities to the Sanitary employees and demanded to consider all demands at the earliest.
Mr. Anoop Gopinathan sarcasm the Red flag group that they never want to resolve the issues of the working class only trying to keep dragging with them to serve their interest. He further said that all the benefits were extended to the working class only after 2014 whereas they were in governance for more than 10 years in coalition but never extended any benefits. They are using the workforce for their political criticism of the government. Policies by involving the poor working class.He conveyed to all working class to isolate and expose such organisations who are never for the employees only for their political intentions. Reminded various anti labour activities of such organisations in various parts of the country during their regime. Mr. Vijay Nair, Finance Secretary, ANRKM also spoke on the occasion and appealed to join hands for the proposed protest on restoring the Old Pension Scheme organised by Rashtriya Rajya Karmachari Mahasangh and Govt. Employees National Confederation, BMS in New Delhi on 22nd Nov. 2023. Mr. Ram Pyare Yadav, State Vice President, BMS gave a pledge to all present members to stay united for achieving all demands of Safai Mitra.