Port Blair, Jan 08: In a remarkable achievement, Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, the Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has been selected for the prestigious Sansad Ratna Award for the third consecutive year. Out of 543 MPs in Lok Sabha and 250 MPs in Rajya Sabha five MPs have been selected for this prestigious honour, one among them is Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, the Member of Parliament of A & N Islands.
The Member of Parliament has raised many prominent issues of people of Andaman and Nicobar Islands in last nearly five years such as filling up of nearly 10,000 posts in Administration, which were lying vacant since last 10 years; AIIMS for Andaman; Sending Super Specialist Doctors to Andaman on Deputation; Ultrasound in all PHCs; Completion of Rutland project and shifting water to Dhanikhari Dam; Completing Water project of Flat Bay; Completion of Sippighat Sweet water lake; Not to privatise Electricity Department; Increasing the salary of Anganwari and ASHA workers; Regularising all the left out cases of excess land pre-61; provide 200 sq mtr land to all landless people of A & N Islands; Regularise all encroachment prior to 2012; laying of second OFC cable from Diglipur to Puri; Creation of Central University; Resettlement of Katchal Settlers; Regularisation of all DRMs; Granting of 1/30 th pay to all DRMs; Creation of A & N Public Service Commission; Regularization of Services of 1195 casual employees of PBMC; to construct Chatham Bambooflat Bridge; Increase the Widow and Old Age pension from Rs. 2500 to Rs. 5000; Construction of Alternate Highway along the coastal line; Bridge from Minnie Bay to Mithakhari; to complete Middle Strait Creek Bridge; Introduction of Udaan Scheme in the Islands;To provide air subsidy to the Islanders as in the case of North East; To provide air Ambulance for the Islanders; to start International flights to South-East countries; Direct Flights to Madurai, Kochi & Ranchi from Port Blair; Start Night flight from Port Blair; urgent completion of NH-4; Special Concession for Stretcher Patients of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, during Medical Emergencies; Increase in budget of Andaman and Nicobar Islands from 5,987 crore to 25,000 crore and many many more.
This recognition underscores his exceptional contributions to the parliamentary proceedings and reflects his deep commitment to serving the people of the islands.
This year the award will be presented at a function in the national capital on February 17 at the Parliament.
Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma’s selection for the Sansad Ratna Awards for the third time, even this year, is proof of his outstanding performance in the Lok Sabha. He has not only actively participated in parliamentary debates but has also demonstrated a high level of professionalism in discharging his responsibilities as a Member of Parliament.
His achievements go beyond individual recognition, setting a shining example for his counterparts across India on how to effectively contribute and excel in parliamentary affairs.
The Sansad Ratna Award, considered one of the highest honours for parliamentarians, is bestowed upon those who exhibit exemplary dedication and competence in their roles.
Among the distinguished recipients of this year’s Sansad Ratna Awards are BJP’s Sukanta Majumdar, Shiv Sena’s Shrikant Eknath Shinde, BJP’s Sudheer Gupta, NCP’s Amol Ramsing Kolhe, and Congress’ Kuldeep Rai Sharma.
Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma’s commendable performance in the Parliament includes active participation in numerous debates, the raising of pertinent questions, and the introduction of several private members’ bills.
Archives for January 8, 2024
Protest by Former Home Guards in Port Blair demanding Employment Opportunities
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.
CPI (M) Demands Repair of Roads in Diglipur
Port Blair, Jan 08: CPI (M) has demanded immediate repair of roads and construction of bridges at Laxmipur and Madhupur Gram Panchayats in Diglipur. In a letter sent to the Chief Engineer, APWD after a visit to Diglipur, D. Ayyappan, Secretary, CPI (M) A & N State Organising Committee said that the construction of the proposed road from Mauries Tirkey Jn to Stone Quarry in Ward No. 4 of Madhupur is yet to begin.
He has further brought to the notice of the Chief Engineer, APWD that a culvert along the road from 11 Family Jn to Dunghi Ghat at Ward No.1 of Laxmipur Gram Panchayat got damaged due to subsidence of soil. Half of the road has caved in because of which the bus service in the route has been stopped. He said that the people are now used to walking over the nearly 3 KM road to reach the main road. About 50 – 60 families are using this road. CPI (M) demanded that this culvert has to be repaired immediately to resume the bus service along the said road.
CPI (M) Secretary further pointed out the dangerous condition of the Laxmipur 8 Family Steel Bridge at Laxmipur Ward No.3. The steel bridge was erected about 20 years back and it outlived its longevity and the vehicular traffic is restricted over it. Ayyappan told the Chief Engineer that heavy vehicles are completely prohibited over the bridge because of which the villagers are facing hardship to transport various materials to the village. Repeated assurances were given to the villagers by the authorities concerned but the bridge has not been replaced either by steel bridge or concrete bridge. CPI (M) demanded that the steel bridge be replaced by a cement concrete bridge.
Meeting held at Bengali village in Terresa Island by Vishal Jolly
Port Blair, Jan 08: On 5th January 2024, Mr. Vishal Jolly, National Executive Member of BJP and Former State President BJP-ANI, conducted a meeting at Bengali village in Terresa Island. The attendees included Mr. Athonai Edward, Chairman of the Tribal Council Teressa Island, Mr. E.S Rajesh Nicobar District President of BJP, Captain Mr. Festus (Bengali village Headman), Mr. O Zedrack Minyuk, Captain Mr. Cain Ahmed Enam (headman), Mr. William Allurong (village headman), Mr. Wilson Zachariah (Kalasi village headman), Mr. Nahore Luxi (village headman), Mr. Erick Jethro (Deputy Vice Chairman), and Mr. Luckson Chukmachi (village headman).
During the meeting, Mr. Vishal Jolly elucidated various central government schemes aimed at benefiting the tribal populace. He emphasized the importance of re-electing the Modi Government for the overall development of the tribal community. Additionally, various local issues were deliberated upon.
The representatives of the tribal villages presented their demands to Vishal Jolly, who assured them that the party would diligently work towards promptly addressing these concerns with appropriate authority.
Shaktirupa Conference Celebrates Empowerment and Tradition at Mahila Samanvay Event
Port Blair, Jan 08: Mahila Samanvay successfully hosted the “Shaktirupa Conference” on the 7th of January 2024 at the prestigious Dr. B R Ambedkar Auditorium, Mohanpura, Port Blair. In collaboration with various women’s organizations in Port Blair, this event aimed to foster self-reliance, education, and empowerment within the community. The Shaktirupa Conference was a resounding success in its mission to empower women and preserve cultural heritage.
Mr. Keshav Chandra, Chief Secretary, A & N Administration, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, honoring the event with his presence.
Dr. Poonam Arora, President of Mahila Sammelan, commenced the event with a warm welcome address, highlighting the initiative’s goal of empowering women while preserving rich cultural traditions and fundamental Indian values. She emphasized the pivotal role women play in the upliftment of society and the nation at large.
Chief Guest Mr. Keshav Chandra shared his visionary perspective on the Mahila Sammelan and felicitated nine exceptional women achievers from various walks of life, acknowledging their remarkable contributions to society, Mrs. Preetam Kumari Nanda (Social Worker), Mrs. Raj Mahajan (Social Worker), Mrs. Chellamma (Agriculturist), Dr. Priya Unde (Gynaecologist), Mrs. Prem (Karyakarta Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram), Ms. Buro (Great Andamanese Tribe), Mrs. Venkat Lakshmi (Anganwadi Teacher), Mrs. Sumari, Ms. Deborah Herold (cyclist), Assistant sub inspector A&N Police and Ms. N Nikita (junior women cyclists)
Insightful addresses were delivered by speakers: Mrs. Archana Harshe, Karyavahika, Rashtra Sevika Samiti, A & N Islands, shed light on the Role of a modern woman as torchbearers of traditional values, while Mrs. Sunita Haldekar, Akhil Bhartiya Saha karyavahika, Rashtra Sevika Samiti, shared profound insights on the importance of Mahila Sammelans.
The event featured sessions by inspirational figures: Capt. Meera Dave, Rashtriya Sah Sanyojika of Akhil Bhartiya Purva Sainik Seva Parishad, Saniya Matri Shakti, delivered a keynote speech on the “Role of Women in National Upliftment.” Mrs. Renu Pathak, General Secretary, Rashtriya Sewa Bharti, led an enlightening session on “Women in Indian Thought.”
Attendees were treated to engaging activities, including various dance performances and patriotic songs, encapsulating the spirit of empowerment and cultural celebration.
The Mahila Sammellan served as a pivotal platform to empower women while honoring and preserving rich traditions and core Indian values in Viksit Bharat. Attendees were inspired to embrace self-realization through cherished traditions while recognizing India’s progress and aspiring towards a prosperous future, all while upholding our esteemed traditions.
The event concluded with a Vote of thanks delivered by Mrs. Dhanlaxmi, Sanyojika, Mahila Sammelan, A & N Islands, expressing gratitude to all participants, dignitaries, and contributors for their support.
Lord Sri Veer Hanuman Jayanthi Celebration
Port Blair, Jan 08: Sri Veer Hanuman Temple Trust, Aberdeen Bazar, Port Blair is going to celebrate Lord Sri Veer Hanuman Jayanthi on 10.01.2024, which will start with Sudersan Homam / Hawan at 8.00 am, Abhisekh from 10.00 am to 11.30 am followed by Maha Aarti and Annadaanam / Bhog from 12.00 am. To 3.00 pm. And at 5.00 pm. Lord Sri Veer Hanuman UtsavaMoorthy (Idol) City Procession will start from Hanuman Temple and routed via Bengali Club, Goal Ghar, Delanipur, Phoenix bay, Gandhi Statue and Aberdeen Bazaar to temple. On 11.01.2024 “Pushpanjali Puja” will be performed in the temple at 5.00 pm. All the devotees are cordially invited to take part generously in Lord Hanuman Jayanthi Puja celebrations and City procession of Lord Sri Veer Hanuman and get blessings of Lord Hanuman.
On observance of “World Braille Day 2024” CRC A&N-Islands conducts a Parental awareness Programme on Unified English Braille Grade-I
Port Blair, Jan 08: On 4th January 2024, CRC A&N-Islands celebrated the World Braille Day 2024 by conducting A Parental awareness programme on Unified English Braille Grade -I at seminar Hall, CRC, Brookshabad.
The aim of Braille Day is to commemorate Louis Braille’s life and legacy by raising awareness about the importance of Braille as a tool for accessibility and inclusion for visually impaired individuals. It seeks to promote the adoption of Braille, advocate for Braille literacy, and foster a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of visual ability, has equal access to information and opportunities.
Mrs. Sumithamol, Director, CRC A&N-Islands welcomed the gathering and delivered a speech on the importance of Braille for Visually Impaired children. Ms Yogavathi Muthu, Special Educator / Orientation & Mobility Instructor, explained the whole content about braille and conducted a short workshop on braille practice for the parents and professionals of CRC A&N-Islands.
In total, 25 Parents and professionals participated. The outcome of this programme clearly denoted the significance of braille subject to be taught and expertise among the children with Visual impairment in Andaman & Nicobar Islands which will play a major role for their empowerment and for inclusion in society.
Directorate of Social Welfare Organizes Awareness-cum-Fitness Programme
Port Blair, Jan. 8:The Directorate of Social Welfare organized an Awareness-cum-Fitness Programme under Hasgulla Club as part of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan at Jogger’s Park yesterday. The 13th fitness program aimed to create awareness on ill effect of drugs and to encourage healthy lifestyles among the participants. More than 80 participants including children from three Child Care Institutions alongwith senior citizens from Military Engineer Services (MES) and the general public participated in the programme.
Shri Ravinder Rao, from Art of Living, spoke on the importance of healthy life style and how to live a drug free life through physical activity, with the help of education and community support. Dr. Nitin Shakya, Director of Social Welfare highlighted the importance of regular physical activity and emphasized the need for a healthy and active lifestyle.
The Drug Awareness-cum-Fitness programme is being conducted every Sunday at Jogger’s Park from morning 6 am till 7.30 Am for the general public and will continue till March, 2024. This session will provide a platform for individuals to not only improve their physical fitness but also to gain awareness about the impact of substance abuse and make positive choices for a healthier lifestyle. For more information, one may contact the Nodal Officer (Prohibition), Department of Social Welfare on Phone No. 03192-244386 or 9933248717/ WhatsApp link https://chat.whatsapp.com/B9V0H4qSUFx62bIcQtkv9d
Technical Lecture to Organize by IEI, ANSC
Port Blair, Jan 08: The Institution of Engineers (India) (IEI), the Andaman & Nicobar State Centre (ANSC) is organising a technical Power Point Presentation on the Theme “Waste Management and Waste to Energy”, in the conference hall of Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works Office Complex at Mohanpura, Port Blair. at 03:00P.M on 10.01.2024.
Dr. B.J.Alappat, Professor of Environmental Engineering and Management, Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Delhi will be the Speaker.
All the Engineering Fraternity & Interested persons of these Islands are requested to attend the Technical Lectures.
De-Commissioning Ceremony – INS Cheetah, INS Guldar, and INS Kumbhir
Port Blair, Jan 08: De-commissioning of Indian Naval Ships Cheetah, Guldar, and Kumbhir is scheduled on 11-12 Jan 24 at port Blair. The Andaman and Nicobar Command extend an invitation to all ex-crew, who have served on any of these ships whilst in commission. For RSVP and any further information kindly contact Liaison Cell, Decommissioning Ceremony on +91-8900943936.