ANDAMAN SHEEKHA

The True Mirror of A & N Islands

Archives for January 8, 2025

Residents of Lal Pahad Struggle as Healthcare Sub Centre Proposal Stalls; Pradhan Pushes for Urgent Action

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Rabindranath Biswas

Sri Vijaya Puram, 08, January: In reiteration of her consistent demand, Smti Tapashi Saha, Pradhan, Gram Panchayat Chouldari has again pressed for establishing a Sub Centre at a suitable location in Lal Pahad under Gram Panchayat Chouldari to meet the healthcare requirement of the villagers effectively.

Speaking to Andaman Sheekha Daily, the Pradhan of GP Chouldari said that there was a Sub Centre close to the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Chouldari. However, when the old Sub Centre reached a derelict condition, it finally became reportedly non-functional. Since then, there was a continual demand from the residents of Lal Pahad that the Sub Centre be shifted to Lal Pahad and is newly established there.

The Sub Centre in question was very close to the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Chouldari; furthermore, a fair chunk of the patients seeking health service at this Sub Centre used to come from Lal Pahad. Hence, if the Sub Centre is shifted to Lalpahad, it would be convenient for pregnant women and kids of the area, she said. Taking up the matter, the Pradhan reportedly wrote a letter to the Secretary (Health), A & N Administration, Port Blair about a year ago. Smti Saha then wrote a letter to the Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman and apprised the authority of problems and the dire need of the Sub Centre to be shifted to Lal Pahad.

Notably, Lal Pahad is located in the rural area under GP Chouldari with a population of approximately 1500. Villagers face significant challenges in accessing health care services owing to lack of essential healthcare facilities in the area, she informed the DC. As a result, there was an urgent need to establish a Sub Centre at a suitable location in Lal Pahad to meet the healthcare requirement of the villagers effectively, she emphasized. The proposed Sub Centre at Lal Pahad would act as a primary healthcare provider, aiming to provide basic medical services, preventive care, health promotion, and health education to the community. In fact, it would also serve as an interface between the proposed Sub Centre and PHC/CHC and will play a pivotal role in improving the health and well-being of the villagers and would help alleviate their reliance on distant hospitals and clinics, she further added.

She then urged the DC to grant/allot a piece of land in Lal Pahad and its set apart for the establishment of the Sub Centre. Subsequently, the matter further advanced following her pursuance of the project, and a joint inspection of the proposed site was reportedly done in presence of the Pradhan and the concerned area JE in 2023. The Research Officer (Plg.) DHS sounded positive and he even reportedly advocated for a PHC there and requested the Executive Engineer, CD-III, APWD, Prothrapur to prepare a layout plan of the HWC/SC on the proposed site and also furnish a tentative cost for development of site excluding building cost to take a decision/further course of action for construction of HWC/SC at that location, she said. However, gradually the endeavour reportedly died down and she saw no further advancement in the said project, she alleged.

The Pradhan will now again approach the concerned authorities with the demand of the residents of Lal Pahad for establishing a HWC/SC on the site in Lal Pahad so that the people of this area may have access to healthcare services, she further said.

 

Kuldeep Rai Sharma inaugurates new CCS LPG Show Room

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 08: The Consumers Co-operative Stores Limited, Port Blair has shifted its LPG Showroom from Delanipur to the newly constructed showroom in the 1st floor of the CCS Head Office building at Aberdeen Bazar, Sri Vijaya Puram. The inaugural function of the new showroom was held today, the 8th January, 2025 at 11.00 a.m.
Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, Chairman, A& N State Cooperative Bank has inaugurated the Showroom in presence of a huge gathering. The Chairman, Municipal Council, Mr. Sudeep Rai Sharma, Zilla Parishad Adhyaksha ,South Andaman, Mrs. M.Rajani , Up-Adhyaksh , South Andaman ,Mr. P.A.Sharfuddin , Municipal Councillors, officials of Indian Oil Corporation, CCS Board members, Public personalities, political leaders, Shareholders and CCS employees were present in the function.
The Chief Guest, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma in his address, appreciated the present Board of Directors of the CCS Limited for their vigorous efforts towards the development of the Society. Mrs. Pushpanjali Raju, Chairman, CCS Limited also addressed the gathering. Mr. Abdul Siddique, Secretary CCS Limited briefed the new upcoming projects of CCS Ltd and also proposed the vote of thanks to the gathering.

CPI (M) Opposes Privatisation of Power Sector in A&N Islands

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 08: Andaman and Nicobar State Conference of Communist Party of India (Marxist) held on 28 – 29 December, 2024 through a resolution has opposed the privatization of the power sector in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The Conference observed with grave concern and anxiety that the Central Government has decided to privatise the power sector in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The Conference noted that at present the power generation, transmission and distribution are handled by the Electricity Department by utilising the services of hundreds of workers, employees and Engineers.
The CPI (M) Conference noted that the BJP-led central government is going ahead with creation of companies for handling the Electricity related works in the islands, which will definitely lead to closure of the Electricity Department. Subsequently, these companies will be handed over to private firms from mainland. The CPI (M) is of the view that with the privatization of power sector, the job of the existing workers, employees and Engineers will be adversely affected. They will no longer be government employees and will become employees of the Companies and subsequently to the employees of private power firms. The Conference noted that this will block any further job opportunity for the local unemployed youth in the Electricity Department. The CPI (M) Conference further noted that privatisation of power sector will lead to sharp increase in the power tariffs which will affect people from all walks of lives and the business community in the islands. The poorer sections in the islands cannot afford the huge electricity bills of the private power firms.
The CPI (M) Andaman & Nicobar State Conference, therefore, urged upon the Government of India to refrain from privatising the power sector in Andaman & Nicobar Islands and allow the present set up of Electricity Department to run the power related works in the islands for the benefit of the islanders as a whole and existing employees and workers in particular.
A copy of the resolution has been submitted to the Chief Secretary, Andaman & Nicobar Administration by D. Ayyappan, Secretary, CPI (M) A & N State Organising Committee.

 

Chief Secretary Graces New Year Celebration at Composite Regional Centre (CRC), A&N Islands

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 08: The Composite Regional Centre (CRC), A&N Islands witnessed a momentous New Year celebration on January 8, 2025 in hands with PANKH NGO marked by the esteemed presence of Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, the Chief Secretary of A&N Administration as the Chief Guest. The event reflected the administration’s unwavering commitment to empowering persons with disabilities and fostering an inclusive society.
The Chief Secretary’s participation underscored the significance of CRC’s efforts in promoting rehabilitation and inclusion in the region. In their address, the Chief Secretary highlighted the energy radiating from our Divyangjan is truly extraordinary. Their enthusiasm, resilience, and unique abilities remind us of the boundless potential within each individual and inspired the audience with a vision for a more inclusive and accessible future.
The event also featured:
ADIP (Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids and Appliances) Distribution Ceremony, where the Chief Secretary personally handed over aids and appliances to beneficiaries, empowering them to lead more independent lives.
A cultural performance by special children and Parents of special children showcasing their remarkable talents and spreading joy.
Fun games for parents and children, adding a lively and engaging atmosphere to the celebration.
The presence of other distinguished guests, including Mr. L. Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Social Welfare and Mrs. Geeta Rani Verma, IGP, Narcotics Andaman & Nicobar Islands further enhanced the occasion. Mrs. Sumithamol, Director of CRC, A&N Islands welcomed and honored the esteemed guests.
A highlight of the celebration was the special acknowledgment of Mrs. Komal Anand, Founder & President of Pankh NGO, Sri Vijaya Puram. Her vision and dedication to community welfare have been instrumental in making this event a reality. Punkh NGO sponsored the entire program and also donated a water cooler to CRC, reinforcing their unwavering support for Divyangjan and their families and Swami.Sudhanandha Saraswathi, Chimaya Mission also graced the programme.
The ceremony concluded with the Chief Secretary leading the New Year Cake Cutting Ceremony and distributing prizes and gifts to winners of various activities and CwSN leaving everyone inspired and motivated.
Finally, Mr.Jeo Paul, Asst.Prof.Clinical Psychology, CRC expressed heartfelt gratitude to the dignitaries for their support and visionary leadership, which continues to be a driving force behind CRC’s initiatives.

 

PS Billiground Team Busts Illegal Liquor Operation In Badamnallah Forest

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Billiground, Jan 08: On 07/01/2025, in a swift and efficient operation against illegal liquor activities, the PS Billiground team conducted a targeted search in the dense forest area of Badamnallah.
Responding promptly to a tip-off, SI M.V Shiju Kumar, SHO, PS Billiground constituted a specialized team comprising PCs Anirudra Das, Biplab Bachar and HG(R) Thatha Rao. During the search in the dense forest area of Badamnallah, the team discovered a concealed site used for illicit liquor production, recovering approximately 500 liters of Lehan and various production materials hidden within the jungle. All confiscated items were subsequently destroyed, delivering a significant blow to the illegal liquor manufacturing network.
The entire operation was carried out under the vigilant supervision of Shri. Rahul L. Nair, IPS, SDPO Rangat, and the overall direction and supervision of Ms. Shweta K. Sugathan, IPS, Superintendent of Police, N&M Andaman District.
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.

Deputy Commissioner, SA Inspects Various Developmental Works alongwith PRI Members at Tushnabad Gram Panchayat

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 08: Mr. Arjun Sharma, Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman, conducted an extensive inspection at various locations in Gram Panchayat Tushnabad to review ongoing and recently completed works related to roads, electricity, public parking, and other infrastructure projects along with the Mrs. Padmawathi, Pramukh of Panchayat Samiti Ferrargunj, Mr. Anand Amrit Raj, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Tushnabad, and officials including the Executive Engineer (PRI), Assistant Engineer (PRI), Junior Engineer (PRI), and all PRI members of Gram Panchayat Tushnabad.
During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman inaugurated three significant projects, marking a milestone in the infrastructural development of the region. These include the construction of a Graveyard Shed, a Cement Concrete (CC) Road, and a Retaining Wall with Parking Space. Additionally, he ceremoniously laid the foundation stone for another CC Road, demonstrating the A&N Administration’s dedication to enhancing connectivity and providing improved amenities for the local population.
Highlighting the significance of community-centric development, the Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman commended the collaborative efforts of the Panchayat and the Administration in realizing these initiatives. He emphasized the importance of Gram Panchayats in addressing local aspirations and creating infrastructure that directly benefits residents.
The inaugurated Graveyard Shed provides a much-needed facility to the community, offering shelter and convenience during ceremonial activities. The newly constructed CC Road is set to enhance connectivity within the village, facilitating smoother transportation and access. The Retaining Wall with Parking Space addresses the twin objectives of infrastructure stability and the growing demand for organized parking facilities in the area. The foundation stone for the new CC Road marks the beginning of yet another vital project that will further improve connectivity and accessibility for the villagers.
The Deputy Commissioner underlined the A & N Administration’s commitment to fostering sustainable and inclusive growth in rural areas. He reiterated that such initiatives are part of a larger effort to address the infrastructural needs of the region and improve the quality of life for the residents of South Andaman.

 

Heartfelt Condolences

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I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Shri. Mangal Sain Malhotra ji.

His century-long life was a testament to resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to serving society.

Through his remarkable contributions to the Indian Army and Andaman & Nicobar Administration, he touched countless lives and left behind an enduring legacy.

May his soul rest in eternal peace. His wisdom, kindness, and selfless service will always be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time of profound loss.

Yours in Grief,

Kuldeep Rai Sharma
Former Member of Parliament
Andaman and Nicobar Islands

 

Withdraw UGC Draft Regulations

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 08: The Draft University Grants Commission Regulations 2025 contains a provision, which is a direct assault on the rights of states on the question of selecting Vice Chancellors in state-run universities.

In a press release today Mr. Muralidharan, of CPI(M) Central Committee office said that the guideline gives the Governor-cum-Chancellor the power to appoint the three-member Selection Committee in which the Chancellor’s nominee will also be the Chairperson. This is happening in the background of Governors acting arbitrarily in appointing Vice Chancellors in some opposition-ruled states.

The state government will have no say in who is being appointed in the Selection Committee. At one stroke, through these guidelines, the Centre can appoint Vice Chancellors of its choice in all state-run universities through the Governors-cum-Chancellors.

The release added that these draft regulations violate the Constitutional position, wherein education is a concurrent subject. “All democratic sections, including the non-BJP state governments, should unitedly oppose this dangerous provision. It should be withdrawn”, the release mentioned.

 

District Administration SA Evicts Encroachers at Calicut Village

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 08: An eviction drive was carried out at Calicut village which targeted fresh encroachments on government revenue land.
During the drive, three temporary structures with fencing, intended for residential purposes found on the encroached land, covering approximately 1000 sq. mtrs, were promptly removed, and the land was restored to its original status.
The District Administration, South Andaman reiterates its commitment to protecting government land and ensuring its rightful use. Citizens are urged to refrain from engaging in unauthorized encroachments and to cooperate with the administration in maintaining the integrity of public property. For any concerns, complaints, or information related to encroachments, the public can reach out to the District Control Room through the following channels Phone Numbers: 03192-240127, 03192-238881, 1070 WhatsApp: 9531888844. The District Administration, South Andaman assures all informants that their identities will remain strictly confidential to ensure their safety and security.

 

Industries Directorate Announces One-Year Skill Training in Carpentry, Engineering, and Tailoring for 2024-25

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan. 8: The Directorate of Industries, A&N Administration is imparting one year training in the trade ‘Carpentry’, ‘General Engineering’, ‘Cane & Bamboo’ & ‘Tailoring & Garment Making’ through the Department Training Centre at Sri Vijay Puram & other Outstation establishments.
The Department has received applications from candidates for undergoing training in the aforesaid trade for the year 2024-25 at Sri Vijaya Puram. The Department has provisionally selected 25 candidates along with 10 waiting list candidates for the said trade, which has been displayed in the Notice Board of Directorate of Industries, Udyog Parisar, Middle Point.
All the provisionally selected candidates along with waiting list candidates have been requested to carry the original certificates, provide the self-attested copy of relevant certificates, already communicated within seven days of the publication of the press note for completing the codal formalities to Training Cell of the Directorate of Industries. Failure to submit the documents and complete the codal formalities within the stipulated time shall result in cancellation of their selection.