Archives for October 23, 2024

Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: The World Human Rights Protection Commission (WHRPC), led by Dr. J Arockia Raj, National Member, has issued a strong demand to streamline the operations of Private Stage Carriages. The WHRPC emphasizes the need for routine checks on driver licenses, the issuance of conductor licenses in line with Section 30 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and strict enforcement of ticket issuance to passengers.
The WHRPC also highlights the need for monitoring the behavior of drivers and conductors to ensure respectful and professional conduct towards passengers. The Enforcement Agency of the Transport Authority must take immediate steps to implement these measures, ensuring a safe, peaceful, and lawful travel experience for all citizens.
Dr. J Arockia Raj has called on the authorities to uphold these essential standards for public safety, urging the Transport Authority to enforce compliance with these regulations.

Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: In a significant achievement for the chess fraternity of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, eleven chess enthusiasts have successfully qualified for the Senior National Arbiter (SNA) title after participating in the Senior National Arbiter Seminar and Examination, held from October 12-13, 2024, in Port Blair. The seminar was organized by the Andaman Nicobar Chess Association (ANCA) in collaboration with the All India Chess Federation (AICF) and the AICF Arbiters’ Commission.
Led by renowned International Arbiter (IA) and FIDE Lecturer Mr. Swapnil Bansod, the seminar provided participants with an in-depth understanding of the Laws of Chess, Tiebreaks, Tournament Rules, Swiss Pairings, and various FIDE regulations. After two days of intensive learning, 31 participants undertook an examination, of which eleven participants from A & N Islands achieved the required grades to be awarded the prestigious Senior National Arbiter title, viz Subham Dubey, Sathiya Moorthy, T,Srimannarayana A K S, Anand V R, Bala Krishna J, Raja, Krishna Moorthy T, Maheswar Rao K, Bhaskar Rao B, Dr.Bency Joy and 11.Moulika K.
They are required to be registered with AICF as Arbiter as well as get their FIDE NA License prior to officiating in any FIDE rated event. For further details and assistance one may contact Mr. S Netazi, Senior National Arbiter and the co-ordinator of the SNA Seminar and Exam at 9434292502

Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: A highly successful Disability Screening Camp cum Awareness Programme on Welfare Schemes for Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) was conducted today at the Conference Hall, Bishop John Richardson Hospital, Nicobar District. The event was jointly organized by the Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Andaman & Nicobar Islands, in collaboration with the Directorate of Social Welfare, Andaman & Nicobar Administration.
The camp was inaugurated by Mrs. Jyoti Kumari, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Nicobar District, who served as the Chief Guest. Dr. Grace, Medical Superintendent, Mrs. Sunitha, CDPO, Nicobar District, and Dr. Sameer Johnson, Senior Medical Officer, also participated in the inaugural session. In her welcome address, Mrs. Sumithamol, Director, CRC A&N Islands, stressed the importance of extending these vital services to the tribal communities of Nicobar, ensuring their equal access to healthcare and welfare schemes.
The camp was supported by a skilled team of professionals, including Mr. T.Y. Abid, Lecturer in Physiotherapy and Mrs. Saranyah, Rehabilitation Officer from CRC A&N Islands, who conducted the disability screenings. Mr. Gaurav, Special Educator from the District Education Office (DEO), Nicobar District, also joined the team, providing educational support for Divyangjan.
A special focus of the camp was on the Scheduled Tribe (ST) community of Nicobar, who form a significant part of the district’s population. A total of 114 individuals with disabilities from the Nicobar Tribal community were assessed, benefiting from medical screenings and receiving guidance on rehabilitation options.
In addition to health assessments, participants were given detailed information on various government welfare schemes such as the UDID, Niramaya Health Insurance, ADIP Scheme for assistive devices, and the PM-Daksh skill development program. The focus was on ensuring that all eligible individuals, particularly from the ST community, could easily access these schemes.
The event concluded with Mrs. Jyothi Kumari, IAS, appreciating the collaborative efforts of the CRC A&N Islands, the Directorate of Social Welfare, and the local health officials. She emphasized the need to continue such outreach initiatives to improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities, particularly within the tribal and underserved communities of Nicobar District.
This camp represents a vital step in ensuring that persons with disabilities from the Nicobar Tribal community are not left behind in accessing healthcare and government support.

Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: Ms. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, Superintendent of Police, North & Middle Andaman, has been felicitated as the “Best Performing Officer in Anti-Smuggling Operations,” a prestigious award conferred by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) at the national level.
As a Superintendent of Police, North & Middle Andaman District, she shown exemplary leadership in anti-poaching and anti-smuggling operations in the North & Middle Andaman region has led to significant achievements, including the apprehension of around 100 poachers, the seizure of 10 large engine dinghies valued at Rs. 2.5 crores, and the interception of 2000 kgs of sea cucumbers worth Rs. 5 crores, which were being smuggled.
This recognition serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order, securing the region, and her relentless efforts in protecting islands rich natural resources. Her dedication continues to inspire her team and strengthens the fight against illegal activities in the region.
Andaman & Nicobar Police take immense pride in the achievement and congratulate on this well-deserved honor, reaffirming our confidence in her continued service and excellence in the years to come.

 

Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: The State Child Protection Society (SCPS), under the Directorate of Social Welfare, in collaboration with Oil India Ltd. organized a special program at Seva Niketan Dairy Farm, to distribute water purifiers to 11 Child Care Institutions (CCIs). This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to enhance living conditions and support the welfare of children residing in these homes.
The event commenced with a welcome address by the Program Manager, SCPS who warmly greeted the attendees and outlined the objectives of Mission Vatsalya, a flagship government scheme aimed at child protection and welfare. She emphasized how the program strives to ensure the safety, well-being, and development of vulnerable children.
Mr. Anjan Jyoti Phukan, Executive Director (KGB & MBP) from Oil India Ltd., highlighted the significant role the company is playing in this initiative. He elaborated on Oil India Limited’s contributions as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. A MAHARATNA public sector enterprise, Oil India Ltd. has committed to providing essential resources, including computers, printers, projectors with screens, UPS, smart TVs, and water purifiers, to 11 CCIs across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. This support aims to uplift and improve the lives of the children in these communities.
In-charges of all Child Care Institutions were also present at the event and shared their experiences on how these improvements would positively impact the lives of the children under their care. A special highlight of the event was a cultural program organized by the children of Seva Niketan, adding a lively and heartfelt dimension to the day’s proceedings.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the In-charge of Seva Niketan, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries of Oil India Ltd. and the Director, Social Welfare for their generous support and collaboration in this meaningful endeavor.

 

Nicobar, Oct 23: : The Composite Regional Centre for Skill Development, Rehabilitation & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (CRC), Andaman & Nicobar Islands, in collaboration with the Directorate of Education A&N Administration, and the District Education Office (DEO), Nicobar District, successfully organised an awareness programme on RCI-recognised disability rehabilitation courses for students belonging to the Scheduled Tribes (ST) community. The event was held at the Conference Hall, District Revenue Office (DRO), Nicobar, on 21st October 2024.
The session was inaugurated by Mr. Nathaniel, Education Officer, DEO Nicobar, who served as the Chief Guest, and Mrs. Sunitha, Child Development Project Officer (CDPO), Nicobar, as the Special Guest. Mrs. Sumithamol, Director of CRC A&N Islands delivered a presidential address setting the tone for the day’s event, which aimed to create awareness about the various career opportunities in the field of disability rehabilitation.
Key resource persons included Mr. T.Y. Abid, Lecturer in Physiotherapy, Mrs. Saranyah, Rehabilitation Officer, from CRC A&N Islands, and Mr. Gaurav, Special Educator, from DEO Nicobar, who delivered presentations on various aspects of disability rehabilitation. These sessions covered the scope and significance of RCI-recognised courses, the process for enrollment, and career prospects in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and special education, among others.
A total of 110 students from the ST community participated in the event, gaining valuable insights into the opportunities available in the field of disability rehabilitation. The sessions also highlighted government schemes and scholarships specifically designed to support ST students in pursuing education and professional training in this sector.
The programme concluded with an interactive session, where students engaged with the speakers, asking questions and seeking clarity on various topics discussed. The collaboration between CRC A&N Islands, the Directorate of Social Welfare, and the DEO Nicobar is part of an ongoing effort to empower students from tribal communities by providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to make a meaningful contribution to society, especially in the field of disability rehabilitation.

Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: The Electricity Department has developed a POL (Petroleum, Oil & Lubricant) monitoring software to ensure efficient and transparent management of fuel by respective power houses of the Department in entire A&N Islands. The software was developed by SOVTECH to track the consumption, storage and distribution of POL products with specific fuel consumption analysis DG wise & Station wise to enhance accountability on real time basis to improve efficiency and reduce pilferage. Third party audit of the software has been done for ensuring entries and flawless implementation. The POL entries by all Stations in the software are being monitored by senior officers also. The concerned Junior Engineers/ Assistant Engineers were sensitized through various training programme for real time updation of POL status of their respective power houses in the software.
The Director (Power) during a sensitization meeting held in the Conference Hall of Disaster Management Building today, while addressing all the JEs, AEs & EEs has given the following instructions regarding Generation and T&D system.
Addressing the Engineers of Generation Sector, it was instructed that any deviations in compliance to the direction regarding POL software shall be viewed very seriously and necessary action will be initiated against the defaulter. In the event of any pilferage or unauthorized usage of POL, the Administration shall take serious note in such matters, for which, stringent action shall be initiated against the officials responsible for such acts as the Department is committed to maintain standards of accountability and transparency of handling the POL resources. All energy meters in the power houses shall be made functional for ensuring accuracy of energy recorded. Calibrated flow meters should be installed in the fuel lines for proper recording of HSD receipts.
Addressing the Engineers of T & D sector, it was instructed that the Junior Engineers shall ensure operational efficiency and adherence to safety protocols within the Transmission & Distribution Systems as per the SOP issued by the Department. They shall remain vigilant and responsive towards consumer complaints related to power issues, which needs to be resolved in accordance to the timelines prescribed in JERC Regulation (Supply Code) 2018 and should be available in field for early redressal. Non-compliance of JERC Regulation without any valid reason will be viewed very seriously. An appropriate action will be initiated against the respective Junior Engineer responsible for such acts leading to delay in redressal of grievances/complaints.

 

Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 23: The three-day 43rd All India Official Language Conference-cum-Training Camp got underway in the conference hall of Hotel Peerless Resort here today. The camp being organized by Bhartiya Bhasha & Sanskriti Kendra (BBSK), New Delhi, was inaugurated by the Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, Shri Keshav Chandra, IAS as the chief guest in the presence of the Secretary, Official Language, A&N Administration, Dr. Anil Agarwal as the guest of honour and dignitaries & participants of the seminar from different parts of the country.
Addressing the delegates from different parts of the country, the Chief Secretary stated that the Central Govt. is focusing on the development and propagation of Hindi and we must strive to work towards its propagation at all levels. The Chief Secretary thanked the organizers for selecting these Islands for conducting this conference which, according to him, will further contribute towards propagation of Hindi.
The Chief Secretary also underlined the need for simplification of Hindi so that everyone can speak and understand the language without any difficulty. Mentioning that A&N Islands is known for its enchanting natural beauty, the Chief Secretary urged the delegates to take time out for visiting in and around Sri Vijaya Puram to enjoy the scenic beauty and historical places.
The Chief Secretary and the Secretary (OL) gave away trophies to the best performing Department in using Hindi and also individual prizes to the senior officers who immensely contributed towards encouragement and use of Hindi.
Speaking as guest of honour, Secretary, Official Language, A&N Administration, Dr. Anil Agarwal informed that the A&N Administration is making best efforts to maximize the use of Hindi in day-to-day official work. Nodal Officer (OL) has been appointed in all the Departments to monitor the implementation of Official Language, the Secretary added.
Among others, the function was also addressed by Prof. C.C Tripathi, Director, National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research, Bhopal, Shri Santosh Kumar, Executive Director, NHPC Limited and Secretary, Bhartiya Bhasha & Sanskriti Kendra, Shri Mahipal Singh. The conference inaugurated today will continue till October 25, 2024.