Rabindranath Biswas
Diglipur, Dec. 04: The Pramukh, Panchayat Samiti Diglipur and other Members of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) of North Andaman have raised their voice against a recent proposal by the Andaman Administration to hand over the road works of Rural Road and a part of NH4 to National Highway Authority of India (NHAI).
According to information, Mr. Dipankar Mistry, Pramukh, Panchayat Samiti Diglipur and other members of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) of North Andaman have raised their serious objection to a recent proposal by the Andaman Administration to hand over the road works of Rural Road from Kalara Junction to Ramnagar and State Highway from Diglipur Bazar to Hathilevel, under APWD, Diglipur, to National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). Taking a great exception to the alleged proposal, they said: “As we have seen the deteriorating condition of NH roads in North and Middle Andaman constructed by NHAI in the last five years. They have dug up the roads constructed by the erstwhile APWD and reused the stones used in them, we can say that the present roads have been constructed without any stones and the condition of the roads is deteriorating day by day.” Furthermore, the present condition of the roads has caused a lot of inconvenience to the local people and has affected the lives of many individuals in many ways, they decried.
In such a situation, if the Administration hands over these road projects to NHAI, it may create anxiety in the minds of the people, Mr. Mistry and other PRI Members opined. On the other hand, the members of PRIs and even the Contractors’ Association of Diglipur are reportedly unhappy with this decision, the Pramukh categorically said. There are about 70-80 government contractors in North Andaman who reportedly depend on these projects/works for their livelihood, Mr. Mistry claimed. If all such projects are reportedly given to NHAI, it can have a bad impact on the families of these government contractors, he further added.
Now, their only demand is that these road projects should remain under the jurisdiction of APWD of Diglipur and the Pramukh has written a letter addressed to the honourable Lieutenant Governor, A & N Islands to this effect on 2nd December 2024, he further said.
Archives for December 4, 2024
Seven Unique Indigenous Products from Andaman & Nicobar Islands Receive GI Tag Recognition, Honoring Tribal Heritage
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 04:To fulfill the vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the NABARD as a tribute to the ancient Tribal Community and their products has facilitated Geographical Identification tagging of 7 indigenous and unique products of the Islands viz., Nicobari Mat [Chatrai-hileuoi] Registration No.1054, Nicobari Hut [To Chanvi Pati – Nyi hupul] Registration no.1061, Nicobari Hodi Registration No.998, Padauk Wood Craft Registration No.1060, Andaman & Nicobar Coconut Registration No.1059, Nicobari Tavi-i-Ngaich [Virgin Coconut Oil] Registration No.1057 and Andaman Karen Musley Rice Registration No.1055.
NABARD acknowledges with gratitude the unstinting support received from A&N Administration. The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, A&N Islands had blessed this journey in April 2024.The applicants viz., the Tribals Development Cooperative Society Ltd., Sahara Women’s Marketing Cooperative Society Ltd., Tribal Development Council, Centre for Participatory Training and Learning have led this initiative and brought this proud moment to the entire Union Territory. The entire process was coordinated by Human Welfare Association under the guidance of Padma Shri Rajani Kant ‘the GI man of India’.
The rich cultural heritage of the Nicobarese and Karen Community now stands enshrined in the Intellectual Property Right conferred by the GI tags.
Andaman & Nicobar Administration Launches Three New Policies to Boost Sustainable Tourism: Bird Watching, Caravan, and Luxury Tented Accommodation
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 04:The Tourism Department of A&N Administration has come up with 3 unique & outstanding policies aimed at boosting the tourism sector in Isles. These new tourism related policies viz. Bird Watching Policy, Caravan Policy and Luxury Tented Accommodation Policy of Andaman & Nicobar Administration were launched by Hon’ble Lt. Governor of A&N Islands recently aiming at enhancing the region’s appeal, supporting sustainable development and positioning the Islands as a preferred tourist destination. An insight into the three Policies:
Bird Watching Policy:
Bird watching has become a popular activity among tourists visiting the Islands. These Islands are home to a diverse range of bird species, many of which are endemic to the region. A well-designed bird watching policy will help promote sustainable tourism that generates income for local communities and businesses, while also preserving the natural environment and cultural heritage of the Islands. The policy will also help protect the bird species and their habitats by regulating bird watching activities, minimizing disturbance to their habitats, and preventing any harmful practices that can endanger their populations. It can also contribute to sustainable development, conservation efforts, community involvement while promoting responsible tourism practices that benefit local communities.
Caravan Policy:
Caravans are a unique tourism product, which promotes family-oriented tours even in circuits/destinations which do not have adequate hotel accommodation. The Caravan Policy may add an exciting new dimension to the Andaman Tourism experience by enabling tourists to explore the Islands in fully equipped caravans. The policy aims to promote and facilitate caravan tourism and the development of caravan parks. This initiative may promote an adventurous, flexible, and sustainable way to experience the Islands’ landscapes, beaches and pristine forests. It also offers an opportunity for eco-conscious travelers to enjoy a mobile and self-sufficient stay without the environmental impact of traditional accommodations.
Policy for Luxury Tented Accommodation:
Luxury tents offer a unique and upscale accommodation experience that combines the comfort and amenities of a luxury hotel with the charm and connection to nature that camping provides. These tents are designed to provide a lavish and exclusive setting while being located in beautiful natural surroundings. There is a growing awareness and increasing demand for eco, adventure, wildlife and heritage tourism in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These tourism products involve visiting and staying in remote areas, forests and seaside. There is a shortage of accommodation, especially luxury accommodation, at such remote tourist destinations. To meet the increasing demand of tourists, luxury tented accommodation would need to be developed in A&N Islands.
The implementation of these policies will have a transformative impact on the tourism sector in A&N Islands. By diversifying the types of tourism experiences offered, the policies will attract a wider range of travelers—from eco-tourists and adventure seekers to luxury vacationers. This diversification will help stabilize tourism revenue across different seasons and mitigate the impact of fluctuations in visitor numbers.
These three innovative Policies represent the commitment of A&N Administration to a sustainable and inclusive tourism model that not only celebrates the beauty and biodiversity of these Islands but also ensures long-term economic benefits for our local communities. The A&N Administration aims to strike a balance between preserving our environment and fostering a thriving tourism industry that generates growth, opportunities, and pride for our people.
CPI (M) State Conference On 28 – 29 December 2024
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 04: The 12th Andaman & Nicobar State Conference of the CPI (M) will be held on 28 – 29 December, 2024 at Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram). The meeting of the Party State Secretariat held today (3.12.2024) has finalized the details of the two-day State Conference. Accordingly, on 28th December, 2024, a massive procession and public meeting will be organised. The procession will begin from Tiranga Park, Aberdeen Bazar which, after making a round of important points of the town, will converge into a public meeting at the Tiranga Park. G. Ramakrishnan, Polit Bureau Member of the CPI (M) will inaugurate the public meeting which will be addressed by Dr Sujan Chakraborty, Ex-MP and Central Committee Member of the party and D. Ayyappan, State Secretary and State Secretariat Members of the party. B. Chandrachoodan, Chairman, Reception Committee will preside over the public meeting.
On the second day of the Conference on 29th December, 224, the Delegate Session of the Conference will be held at Atul Smrity Samity (Bengali Club) which will be inaugurated by G. Ramakrishnan, Polit Bureau Member. 100 Delegates and observers from various parts of the islands will attend the Delegate Session. The Secretary, State Organising Committee will present the report on the functioning of the Party in the islands since its last Conference held on 27th March, 2022. The Delegate Session of the Conference will formulate concrete plans for expanding the party and its activities in the union territory in the coming years. Dr Sujan Chakraborty, Ex-MP and Central Committee Member will also address the Delegate Session.
The State Secretariat meeting held today has expressed concern over the growing dugs menace in these islands. CPI (M) meeting decided to request the Govt of India to carry out proper investigation through central agencies over the recent seizure of drugs worth Rs. 36,000 crores in the international market from a foreign vessel near Barren Island in order to find out any involvement of Indian citizens. Andaman & Nicobar Administration and Govt. of India have utterly failed to control the large scale drug consumption in Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The State Secretariat meeting also blamed the Member of Parliament Shri Bishnupada Ray for misleading the islanders on various issues concerning the people like NH4 reconstruction, power cut, renovation of urban and rural roads, circle rates, stamp duty, etc. CPI (M) State Secretariat meeting observed that in order to hide his failure, the MP is indulging in shameful act of blaming officers rather than criticizing the BJP-led central government. The CPI (M) State Secretariat expressed concern over the move on the part of the central government to privatise the power sector in the islands which will not only saw sharp increase in the power tariffs but will also bring hundreds of existing employees under private firms.
ANC Celebrates Navy Day 2024
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 04:The fourth of December is celebrated every year as the Navy Day and has a great significance in the history of the Indian Navy. It marks a decisive victory of the Indian Navy in Operation Trident, as a part of the 1971 Indo-Pak War, wherein ships of the Indian Navy carried out missile attacks on Pakistan Navy ships and shore defence installations, sinking many ships carrying war sustenance efforts and critical stores besides neutralisation of the Chittagong airfield and other defence infrastructure by the relentless offensive actions of the carrier Erstwhile INS Vikrant, are few highlights among others of the Indian Naval actions as a part of the decisive War.
In the year gone by, ships and aircraft of the Indian Navy have maintained sustained presence across areas of interest through mission based deployments to preserve, promote and protect national interest. Indian Naval Ships of A&N Flotilla maintain uninterrupted vigil at the approaches to the Straits of Malacca and Coco channel, keeping a sharp watch over one of the busiest shipping lane in the world which passes only 40 nm South of A&N Islands. Further during the Co-ordinated Patrols with Navies of friendly neighbouring countries in the area, the Indian Navy has ensured better understanding, synergy and maritime co-operation in the region.
While taking significant steps towards nation building, units under naval Component had adopted Kakna Village at Kamorta Island and Shibpur (Diglipur). Indian Navy has been at forefront in aid to civil authority and helped Civil Adminstration in several occasions on firefighting. The swift response in battling a fire in Nicobari Basti at Kamorta, Diglipur and Minnie Bay was praiseworthy. Assets of Naval Component have provided timely support to the distressed vessels on numerous occasions. To enhance the regional connectivity, MoU was signed under UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) Scheme for utilizing existing Naval Airfields at Shibpur (Diglipur) and Campbell Bay. Recently INS Utkrosh has been upgraded to CAT-I enabling our Airport to handle flight operations round the clock. Headquarters Naval component was also instrumental in expediting repair of two DSS Ships which are life line of ANI.
To commemorate this auspicious day and to enhance general awareness about the Indian Navy, a host of community outreach activities fanfare and elaborated ceremonials are being conducted by the Indian Navy. This year’s conducted activities include Harbour Cruise for senior citizens and veterans, ship open for visitors at Sri Vijaya Puram and outlying islands, local school children’s visit to Air Stations and many more. Also on the eve of Navy day (04 Dec 24) Band Concert and synchronised Illumination at anchorage of Naval ships (firing of flares) were conducted for fellow islanders at Marina point.
The ‘Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive and Future Proof, Indian Navy is unflinchingly committed towards safeguarding the maritime interests of India and rededicates itself to the service of the nation and its people, on the occasion of the Navy Day 2024. “DO YOUR DUTY, DO IT WELL”.
Blood Donation Camp and HIV & AIDS Awareness Programme at Chief Pay and Accounts Office, Sri Vijaya Puram
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 04: Andaman & Nicobar AIDS Control Society (ANACS) along with Blood Center, G. B. Pant Hospital, Directorate of Health Services, supported Chief Pay and Accounts Office, Sri Vijaya Puram to organize a blood donation camp along with HIV & AIDS Awareness programme on the occasion of 7th A&N Civil Accounts Day at Conference Hall of CPAO on 04/12/2024. More than 70 Participants were present for the programme and altogether 32 units of blood were donated by the voluntary donors.
Shri Arjun Sharma, IAS, Deputy Commissioner (South Andaman) has graced the occasion as a Chief Guest and also appreciated the noble gesture done by Chief Pay and Accounts Office staff.
The camp was organized under the guidance of Dr. Subrata Saha, Project Director, A & N AIDS Control Society and Director, State Blood Transfusion Council, A & N Islands.
Dr. Jahanara Yasmeen, DD (MS & IEC) was the resource persons from the ANACS. Participants were given information on overview of STI, HIV & AIDS including its transmission, prevention, and treatment. The programme was an initiative to aware participants and encourage them to learn about safe and healthy lifestyles and also motivate them for voluntary blood donation and safe sexual behaviors.
The Blood Donation camp was facilitated by the Dr. Shilpa Vijay Sankhe, Medical Officer (Blood Bank), ANIIMS, Sri Vijaya Puram. The donors were examined for their eligibility to donate blood and briefed the donors on various aspect and importance of blood donation.
Shri M Mohammed Ashraf, Sr. AO, Pay & Accounts Officer-lll, Nodal Officer/ Complaint Officer, NACP, CPAO, Sri Vijaya Puram organized the camp and made arrangement for conducting the camp successfully.
The technical team from Blood Center, G.B. Pant Hospital, Port Blair and A & N AIDS Control Society ensured that the donated blood units are screened for the transfusion transmissible diseases. They also examined the donors for eligibility criteria.
Donors certificate were also distributed to the voluntary donors.
Special Aadhaar Camps Scheduled Across Andaman & Nicobar Islands in December 2024 for Public Convenience
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 04: The Department of Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs will be conducting Special Aadhaar Camps in Gram Panchayats in the month of December-2024 for the ease of general public as per the given schedule:-
(Timing -9.30 am to 4 pm)
Sl. No. | Village | Period of camp (from – to) | |
SOUTH ANDAMAN | |||
01. | Namunaghar | 05.12.2024 & 06.12.2024 | |
02. | Mithakhari | 10.12.2024 & 11.12.2024 | |
03 | Tushnabad | 12.12.2024 & 13.12.2024 | |
04. | Brindaban | 17.12.2024 & 18.12.2024 | |
05. | Mannarghat | 19.12.2024 & 20.12.2024 | |
06. | Shoal Bay | 23.12.2024 & 24.12.2024 | |
07. | Neil Kendra | 26.12.2024 & 27.12.2024 | |
08. | Ramakrishna Pur | 16.12.2024 & 17.12.2024 | |
09. | Vivekananda Pur | 18.12.2024 & 19.12.2024 | |
NORTH AND MIDDLE ANDAMAN | |||
01. | Nilambur | 10.12.2024 & 11.12.2024 | |
02. | Sundergarh | 12.12.2024 & 13.12.2024 | |
03. | Urmilapur | 19.12.2024 & 20.12.2024 | |
04. | Chainpur | 05.12.2024 & 06.12.2024 | |
05. | Pokadera | 12.12.2024 & 13.12.2024 | |
06. | Diglipur | 05.12.2024 & 06.12.2024 | |
07. | Sitanagar | 12.12.2024 & 13.12.2024 | |
08. | Keralapuram | 19.12.2024 & 20.12.2024 | |
NICOBAR | |||
01. | Mildera | 16.12.2024 to 21.12.2024 | |
All have been requested to avail this opportunity and get the Aadhaar related work done in the Special Aadhaar Camps.
“Swapping Plastic, Sharing Resources, Spreading Colors” – Eco-Friendly initiative to Build a Cleaner, Greener Sri Vijaya Puram
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 04: Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council (SVPMC), in collaboration with Navodaya Foundation, Atal Foundation, CASA Andaman, and GIZ India, has launched a 04-initiatives under the theme “Swapping Plastic, Sharing Resources, and Spreading Colors.” The inaugural event, held on 1st December 2024 at Marina Road, was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by Shri Sudeep Rai Sharma, Chairperson of SVPMC, in the presence of a large gathering of enthusiastic residents and stakeholders. The public applauded these initiatives, which aim to foster sustainable waste management and resource optimization across the city.
The newly launched programs include the Bartan Bank, Electrical Refurbishing Program, RRR (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) Centre, and Spreading Colors. The Swachhata Awareness Team demonstrated the process of availing the Bartan Bank program through a skit, which was witnessed by a large gathering.
These initiatives aim to actively engage the community in sustainable practices and build a cleaner, greener Sri Vijaya Puram. Addressing the gathering, Shri Sudeep Rai Sharma emphasized the importance of public support. He also urged residents to participate wholeheartedly, highlighting that collective efforts are essential to making these initiatives a long-term success.
As part of its broader vision, SVPMC aligns these efforts with the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) 2.0, focusing on sustainable urban waste management and resource efficiency. The initiatives are spearheaded by the 3R Team and the Swachhta Awareness Team (SAT), with plans to provide detailed information and participation guidelines on the official SVPMC website soon. Together with its partners and the active involvement of the community, SVPMC is committed to transforming Sri Vijaya Puram into a model city for sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 at CRC, Brookshabad
Brookshabad, December 3, 2024 — The Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Brookshabad, in collaboration with TAAN & Hope Foundation observed the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in collaboration with an inspiring celebration that highlighted the spirit of inclusivity and empowerment. The event saw enthusiastic participation from individuals with disabilities, their families, and various community members.
The occasion was graced by the esteemed presence of Shri Vinayak Chamadia, IAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, South Andaman, as the Chief Guest, and Shri Ravinder (DANICS), Director of the Directorate of Social Welfare, as the Guest of Honor. Other prominent attendees included Smti. Rita Devi, Women Welfare Officer and Nodal Officer for Disability from Directorate of Social Welfare , alongside distinguished guests and special invitees Shri Mohammed Shabbir Hussain, President,TAAN Smti Sheela Sing, Ex Chairperson, PBMC ,Smti Farida Bibi, Secretary-cum-President, Hope Foundation and Dr. P K Mohammed Nawaz, Guest Faculty Music Department , ANCOL.
The program commenced with a warm welcome address by Ms. Sumithamol, Director of CRC, who emphasized the need for a more inclusive society and the critical role of collective efforts in achieving it.
The day unfolded with a series of engaging activities:
• Motivational speeches from guests and advocates for disability rights.
• Cultural performances by special children, vocational students, and parents that celebrated talent and diversity.
• An inspiring real-life story shared by Mrs. Yogavathi Muthu, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of individuals with disabilities.
A centerpiece of the event was the talent show, where participants showcased their creativity in music, dance, arts and drama, leaving the audience deeply moved.
Adding to the impact of the day was a generous donation of a refrigerator by a social worker Mr. Pradheep Kumar to the vocational training unit, strengthening efforts to equip individuals with disabilities with essential skills.An art and handmade product exhibition, featuring works by vocational students and parents, provided a platform to celebrate their creativity. Parents also presented an engaging drama to raise awareness about the pivotal role they play in nurturing children with special needs (CWSN).
The BPA Music Department of ANCOL added a harmonious note to the celebrations with a musical concert, enriching the event’s cultural dimension. The dignitaries later distributed prizes and certificates to recognize the contributions of participants and supporters.
The program concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Mr. Jeo Paul, expressing sincere gratitude to all who contributed to making the event a grand success.
The celebration not only honored the abilities and achievements of individuals with disabilities but also fostered a deeper understanding of their potential and the importance of inclusive development.
Change in Sailing Schedule: MV Campbell Bay Cancelled, Vessel Sindhu to Sail for Little Andaman on Dec. 6, 2024
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 04:The passenger/general public have been informed that the scheduled sailing programme of the vessel MV Campbell Bay for Little Andaman on Dec. 6 at 2100 hrs from Sri Vijaya Puram to Little Andaman has been cancelled. Passengers those who are holding the tickets of MV Campbell Bay for the above sailing have been advised to cancel their tickets and get full refund.
However, to facilitate the commuters of Little Andaman, the Directorate of Shipping Services has scheduled the vessel Sindhu to sail for Litlle Andaman in place of MV Campbell Bay on the date and time mentioned below.
Sl.
No. |
Name of the vessel | Date & Time of Sailing | From | To | Date & Time of Return Sailing | From | To |
1. | Sindhu | 06.12.2024
2100 Hrs |
Sri Vijaya Puram | Little Andaman | 07.12.2024
1000 Hrs |
Little
Andaman |
Sri Vijaya Puram |
Passengers may book their tickets for the above said voyages from DSS e-ticketing portal (https://dss.andaman.gov.in/eticketing) and STARS Ticketing Counter from Dec. 5 at 0900 hrs onwards.