ANDAMAN SHEEKHA

The True Mirror of A & N Islands

Archives for October 23, 2024

Residents of Katai Dera Demand Urgent Repairs for Dilapidated Rural Road, Gram Panchayat Assures Action

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Rabindranath Biswas
Kadamtala/ Diglipur, Oct 23: The residents of Katai Dera, Ward No. 04 coming under Gram Panchayat Kadamtala, Middle Andaman have decried failure of authorities to undertake repairs of a dilapidated rural road in the locality.
According to information, the connecting Rural Road from Shri Y. Kunjappan house to Bijoy Bhakta house at Ward No. 04, Katai Dera village under Gram Panchayat Kadamtala has reportedly deteriorated significantly, causing immense hardship for the residents in the area. The residents claimed that the concerned Gram Panchayat’s failure to repair the stretches of this road has sparked widespread outrage among them.
Large swathes of this rural road are lying dangerously strewn with potholes and are becoming awfully unsafe for the residents- especially for pregnant women, children and elderly, the residents lamented.
However, Andaman Sheekha Daily when posed questions to the Pradhan, GP Kadamtala, Smti Nilawati Parh to ferret out the fact and status of the road, she said that she has been putting her best efforts to carry out the repair and maintenance of the road with her perseverance as she is well aware of the hardships being endured by the residents in the area.
She has reportedly already submitted the estimate for the repair and maintenance of the road with a covering letter to the Executive Engineer (PRIs), Mayabunder, N & M Andaman for according the “Technical Sanction” (TS) to the road work, she informed. She will see that the accord of TS and floating of tender are done within the shortest possible time and repair & maintenance of the road is started soon after so that the residents in the area who had voted for her get relief from the inconveniences owing to the dilapidated condition of the road, she affirmed.

Andaman Tourism Stakeholders Participate in ITB Asia 2024

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: A delegation of prominent tourism stakeholders from the Andaman Islands, led by Mr. Mohammed Jadwet, Chapter Chairman of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) for the Andaman Region, and Mr. M. Vinod, President of the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), along with other representatives and participants are representing the region at ITB Asia 2024 through the Pavilion of Ministry of Tourism
This prestigious event will take place from October 23rd to 25th at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands. The delegation includes key local tourism businesses registered with the Ministry of Tourism, showcasing the rich potential and vibrant experiences that the Andaman Islands have to offer.
Participating members include: Makkruz, Experience Andaman ,Island Travels ,and Andaman Escapade
This year’s ITB Asia serves as a significant platform for networking, sharing insights, and promoting the unique attractions of the Andaman Islands to a global audience.
The delegation aims to strengthen connections within the travel industry, explore collaborative opportunities, and enhance visibility for Andaman tourism on an international stage.
Mr. Mohan Vinod expressed enthusiasm about the participation, stating, “This is an excellent opportunity for us to highlight the beauty and cultural richness of the Andaman Islands. We are excited to engage with international partners and promote our unique offerings.” The Andaman Islands, renowned for their pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and diverse ecosystems, are eager to attract more global travelers and contribute to the growth of tourism in the region.

Chief Secretary inaugurates Seaweed Cultivation Demonstration Project at Chidiyatapu

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: The Fisheries Department of A&N Administration in association with the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) has established Seaweed Cultivation Demonstration Project at Chidiyatapu. The Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, Shri Keshav Chandra, IAS today inaugurated the project in the presence of the Commissioner-cum Secretary (Fisheries), Smt. Nandini Paliwal, Secretary (Fisheries), Shri Vishwendra, Director (NIOT), Prof. B. Ramakrishnan, Director (Fisheries), Ms Jagtap Kalyani Rajendra, senior officers of A&N Administration & NIOT and fishermen community.
In his address, the Chief Secretary stated that the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has made a clarion call for mass cultivation of seaweed. The Chief Secretary said, seaweed is used for production of umpteen numbers of things which also include cosmetics, colors, bio-plastics & food items etc. The Chief Secretary said, keeping in mind the high value and demand of seaweed all over the World, the A&N Administration decided to associate with the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), so that the A&N Administration demonstrates the seaweed cultivation first to make sure that its cultivation is possible in A&N Islands. He further stated that in the first phase, NIOT has identified sea area of 5 hectares, further 5 hectares will be covered by Fisheries Department. The locally available seaweed (Garcilaria Edulis) will be cultivated in these 10 hectares of sea area, so that it does not cause any damage to the prevailing eco-system of the Islands, the Chief Secretary said. People involved in its cultivation will be benefitted and the process of cultivation is also very easy, which will be ready for harvest within 30 days, the Chief Secretary added.
The Chief Secretary said that the Administration’s effort is to take up the seaweed cultivation in a broader scale, so that A&N Islands stands in the first place all over the country and becomes a role model in seaweed cultivation. The Chief Secretary said that efforts will be made to take up Seaweed cultivation at South Point, Shoal Bay, North Bay, Kodiyaghat, Chidiyatapu, Pokadera, Durgapur Jetty. He also showered all praise for the effort made by the NIOT, the Commissioner-cum- Secretary (Fisheries), Secretary (Fisheries) and others for the seaweed cultivation project in Isles.
Earlier, the Chief Secretary also took part in the deployment of seaweed tube-nets into the cultivation rafts. The Chief Secretary alongwith the officials visited the stalls displaying Seaweeds and its product. The Secretary (Fisheries), Shri Viswendra & Prof. B. Ramakrishnan, Director, NIOT signed an MoU regarding the Seaweed Cultivation Project on the occasion.
In his address on the occasion, the Secretary (Fisheries), Shri Viswendra said that the complete project of seaweed cultivation was conceived during the review meeting of the Fisheries Department being taken by the Chief Secretary on every Saturday at Secretariat. He said, as per the initial conception, the NIOT was provided 5 hectares of sea area last year for technology stabilization and after stabilization in the next phase, the Fisheries Department, as per the direction of the Chief Secretary, took initiative to establish a demo Seaweed Farm at Chidiyatapu which was inaugurated by the Chief Secretary today. He said that the Seaweed cultivation will be propagated in a broader scale as per the new ‘Comprehensive Fisheries Development Policy’.
Earlier, welcoming the chief guest and others present on the occasion, Prof. B. Ramakrishnan, Director, NIOT outlined the activities of NIOT. He said, in recent years, a total of 11,000 species of seaweed were recorded globally, out of which, 865 seaweed taxa are reported from India. The Seaweed diversity of A&N Islands is endowed with 244 species belonging to 100 genera of which 58 taxa are recognized for their importance in various aspects, he added.

 

V K Mariyam Bibi, Zilla Parishad members meet Chief Secretary to Discuss Key Developmental Issues

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: Ms. V. K Mariyam Bibi, Chairperson of the Education and Social Justice Committee, Zilla Parishad South Andaman, along with other PRI members, met with Mr. Kesav Chandra, Chief Secretary, to discuss several important issues related to the development of the Islands.
During the meeting, the following key concerns were raised:
1. Improvement in Healthcare Facilities at GB Pant Hospital and Community Health Centers:
The delegation emphasized the urgent need for additional senior doctors and paramedical staff at GB Pant Hospital, the only referral hospital serving the entire region. Ms. Mariyam Bibi requested the Chief Secretary’s intervention to ensure the posting of specialist doctors and the overall enhancement of the hospital’s infrastructure.
2. Early Commencement of Panighat Jetty Construction:
The delegates expressed concerns over the delay in the construction of the new Panighat Jetty, which collapsed last year. Currently, a temporary jetty operates at Hope Town, but the community has requested swift action to begin construction of the permanent facility. The delegation sought the Chief Secretary’s assistance in expediting the project.
3. Marina Development from Bambooflat to Hope Town:
The delegation proposed a marina development along the sea shore from Bambooflat to Hope Town. They highlighted the dual benefits of this project, which would not only enhance the beauty of the area but also provide essential protection to the vulnerable shoreline.
4. Construction of an Amusement Park at Shore Point:
Ms. Mariyam Bibi informed the Chief Secretary that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed amusement park at Shore Point had already been prepared by ANIIDCO. She urged for the early execution of this much-anticipated project to boost tourism and provide recreational facilities to residents.
The meeting was productive, and the Chief Secretary assured the delegation of his support in addressing these critical issues for the benefit of the Islands’ development and the well-being of its residents.

All India Mahila Congress Felicitates Ms. V.K. Mariyam Bibi for Outstanding Contribution to Membership Drive

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: The All India Mahila Congress (AIMC) organized the Naari Nyay Samman Samaroh on 21.10.2024 at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi , in a grand ceremony that honored women leaders for their exceptional contributions. Among the key honorees, Ms. V.K. Mariyam Bibi was felicitated for her exemplary work in the Mahila Congress Membership Drive in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Ms. Mariyam Bibi was presented with a shawl and a Certificate of Appreciation by Mrs. Alka Lamba, National President of the All India Mahila Congress, and Mrs. Vinesh Phogat, Haryana MLA, in recognition of her dedicated efforts. Ms. Mariyam Bibi successfully enrolled over 2,000 women from diverse parts of the islands in just one month, from September 15 to October 16, 2024.
Mrs. Alka Lamba praised Ms. Mariyam Bibi for her commitment to empowering women and strengthening the Mahila Congress at the grassroots level. She remarked, “The remarkable success of the membership drive in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands is a testament to the hard work and dedication of leaders like Ms. Mariyam Bibi. Her efforts have played a pivotal role in advancing the cause of women’s rights and representation in the region.”
The event was attended by the National Executive Team of the Mahila Congress and prominent leaders from various states, underscoring the national importance of the event.
Expressing her gratitude, Ms. V.K. Mariyam Bibi said, “I am deeply honored to receive this recognition. I thank Mrs. Alka Lamba, the National President of the All India Mahila Congress, and her team for this prestigious acknowledgment. It motivates me to continue my work towards empowering women in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.” She also expressed her gratitude to Co-workers of A & N mahila Congress for achieving this target.
The Naari Nyay Samman Samaroh is a celebration of women leaders who have made significant strides in championing the rights and representation of women across the country.

Diglipur Police Crack Rs. 2.5 Lakh Gold Burglary Case in 24 Hours, Two Arrested

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: A case of burglary involving gold ornaments valued at Rs. 2.5 lakhs was reported at PS Diglipur on 21/10/2024. The case was promptly resolved through the efforts of the PS Diglipur team, resulting in the arrest of two accused persons and the recovery of the stolen property within 24 hours.
Reportedly, on 21/10/2024, a burglary case involving gold ornaments valued at Rs. 2.5 lakhs was received at PS Diglipur by Mrs. Dipika Mistry, W/o Mr. Mithun Kar (26 yrs), R/o RK Gram, near VKZPV School, Diglipur. Based on her complaint, a case under relevant section of BNS 2023 was registered and a dedicated team led by Inspr. Vijay Kumar, SHO PS Diglipur and consisting of HC Sanjit Madhu, PCs Bijoy Sarkar, Susen Das, Yasir Arafath, Suresh & Soma Dey was constituted. The team promptly mobilized their network of informers and meticulously examined all available local CCTV footage which resulted in apprehension of 02 accused namely (1) Pranab Das S/o Mr. Nirmal Das (22) Yrs. R/o Madhupur, Diglipur & (2) Dipankar Das S/o Mr. Ananda Das (23) Yrs. R/o R.K Gram, Diglipur. During interrogation both the accused persons confessed to their involvement in the said crime. Subsequently, the stolen properties were recovered and after observing all codal formalities both the accused have been arrested.
The whole operation took place under the direction of Mr. Chandra Prakash Meena, DANIPS, SDPO Diglipur and overall supervision of Ms. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, Superintendent of Police, N & M Andaman District. The swift resolution of this case, within 24 hours, highlights the dedication and efficiency of N&MA District Police in safeguarding the rights and property of its citizens. 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.

Rangalal Halder requests Chief Engineer, APWD, to Expedite Repair and Maintenance of Road between Dhanikhari and Manglutan Junction

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: The  Andaman Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee President Mr. Rangalal Halder has formally requested the Chief Engineer of the APWD to initiate repair and maintenance work on the 3-kilometer rural road between Dhanikhari  and Manglutan Junction.

In his letter, Mr. Halder expressed concern over the delay in starting the much-needed roadwork, despite the tender being floated over a year and a half ago. The road, which serves as a critical access route for the local residents, has deteriorated significantly, posing severe challenges for commuters and transport of goods, especially during adverse weather conditions.

“This road is vital for the daily movement of people and essential services in the area,” Mr. Halder stated. “The current state of disrepair has made travel difficult and has further hampered transportation of essential goods, affecting the livelihoods of the local population.”

He further urged the Chief Engineer to expedite the process and begin the repair and maintenance work without further delay. “Timely action will greatly alleviate the hardships faced by the people and contribute to the overall development of the area,” he added.

Mr. Halder also emphasized that the long-pending nature of the tender calls for immediate intervention to ensure that this crucial project moves forward promptly.

 

Tata Motors announces the launch of its Customer Care Mahotsav 2024

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Mumbari, Oct 23: Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, has announced the launch of its Customer Care Mahotsav 2024, a comprehensive customer engagement program for commercial vehicle customers till 24th December, 2024. The unique and value-adding programme will be held at over 2500 authorised service outlets across the country, bringing together fleet owners and drivers for insightful discussions. Through the Mahotsav, customers can avail a range of benefits, including thorough vehicle check-ups conducted by trained technicians and access to value-added services. Additionally, drivers will receive extensive training on safe and fuel-efficient driving practices, along with tailored offerings under its Sampoorna Seva 2.0 initiative.
Launching the Customer Care Mahotsav 2024 edition, Mr. Girish Wagh, Executive Director, Tata Motors, highlighted, “We are excited to bring back the Customer Care Mahotsav this year, starting October 23.” This all-inclusive solution begins with the vehicle purchase and supports every operational aspect throughout its lifecycle, including breakdown assistance, guaranteed turnaround times, annual maintenance contracts (AMC), and convenient access to genuine spare parts.

Free Certificate Course on Micro-Entrepreneur – NTFP (Non Timber Forest Produce) Plant Origin: Bamboo crafts under the Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP)- MoEF & CC, Govt. Of India

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: C.P.R. Environmental Education Centre (CPREEC) is going to organize two month Certificate Course on Micro-Entrepreneur – NTFP (Non Timber Forest Produce) Plant Origin:   Bamboo crafts under the Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP), Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India introduced the idea of the Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP) for skilling youths of India. A Certificate will be awarded to the participants on successful completion of the course.

Applications are invited from young men and women of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Interested candidates should submit their applications via the provided QR Code or Google Form by 8th November 2024. Selection will be based on an interview. The course will commence on 13th November 2024. For further clarification, candidates may contact Mr. A. Gopal, Project Officer, CPREEC, ANI, on Mobile: 9474224389 / 9933282500. The course detail is given below:

 

 

1. Name of the course Certificate Course on Micro-Entrepreneur – NTFP (Non Timber Forest Produce) Plant Origin:   Bamboo crafts under the Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP).
2. No. of seats 30 nos.
3. Minimum qualification 10th and above
4. Duration 2 Months
5 Scan and fill the application  

Link:  https://forms.gle/oGjsb2kXhytH5vnt7

 

 

Training programme on “Vermicomposting and its significance in sustainable agriculture” at Car Nicobar

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: ICAR-KVK CIARI Nicobar organized a five-day training program on “Vermicomposting and its Importance in Sustainable Agriculture” at Perka, Car Nicobar, under the TSP initiative. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Mr. Paul David, the first captain of Perka village, who served as the chief guest. Mr. Paul David emphasized the importance of organic farming practices and their long-term impact on the Nicobar region. Dr. Santhosh Kumar, Senior Scientist & Head of KVK Nicobar, shared valuable insights, highlighting the crucial role of community participation and collaboration in creating a favourable environment for large-scale vermicomposting production.
The training program focused on vermicomposting, encouraging participants to adopt the practice in their backyards. A total of 30 farmers attended the program. Subject Matter Specialist, Mr. Sanketh G.D., led a series of technical sessions covering various critical topics, including the requirements, process, types of earthworms, and vermiwash. Mr. Deepoo Meena, Mr. Ajmal, and Dr. Akshay also delivered lectures on vermicomposting. Interactive discussions played a vital role in addressing the unique challenges of rural island farming, and practical demonstrations were conducted for the benefit of the farmers. The training program was organized under the guidance of Dr.Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Director of ICAR-CIARI, Sri Vijaya Puram.