ANDAMAN SHEEKHA

The True Mirror of A & N Islands

Archives for January 24, 2025

Pradhan of Harinagar Discusses Critical Development Projects with APWD Officials

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Harinagar, Jan. 23, 2025: Mr. Manojit Halder, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Harinagar, met with Mr. Prijith Rekh, Chief Engineer of APWD, and Mr. Tej Bahadur, Superintendent Engineer of APWD, to address pressing issues related to infrastructure and water management in the region.
During the meeting, several critical development works were discussed, including:
The progress of two rural road projects under Gram Panchayat Harinagar; The status of the Korang Nallah Dam; Repair and maintenance of check dams at Jaipur and Replacement of aging water pipelines.
Mr. Halder emphasized the urgency of addressing water-related infrastructure, highlighting the potential risk of water scarcity in Harinagar during the approaching summer season if delays persisted.
Responding to the concerns, the APWD officials assured Mr. Halder that the pending works would be prioritized, and efforts would be made to commence the projects as soon as possible.

G Disha Meenakshi, a young chess player achieves ACM Title

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 24: G Disha Meenakshi a young Rated Chess player from Sri Vijaya Puram, achieves the title of Arena Candidate Master (ACM). She is now the youngest Girl chess player from Andaman and Nicobar Islands to attain the FIDE Online Arena title.
ACM G Disha Meenakshi, a Class V student of PM SHRI KV 1, Sri Vijaya Puram was awarded the Arena Candidate Master (ACM) title by the World Chess Federation yesterday for her outstanding performance in the FIDE Online Arena (FOA). She has a Classical FIDE Rating of 1416.
Arena Candidate Master (ACM) is achieved by a series of 150 online bullet games, 100 online blitz games, or 50 rapid online games with a performance rating of over 1100.

ANTCC President Appeals A & N Administration for Temporary Accommodation Facilities for Caregivers of Inter-Islands Patients in Port Blair

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 24: The Andaman Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee President Mr. Rangalal Halder has addressed a letter to the Chief Secretary, A & N Administration, highlighting the urgent need for temporary accommodation facilities for caregivers accompanying patients referred to Port Blair for medical treatment. This appeal comes amidst the ongoing repair and maintenance work at the SVPMC Dharamshala near Marina Park, which has rendered the facility unavailable.
In his letter, Mr. Halder said that The PBMC Dharamshala has long served as a vital resource for caregivers traveling with patients from the Inter-Islands to Port Blair, offering affordable accommodation during their often prolonged stays for medical treatment. However, with the Dharamshala currently out of service, caregivers are left struggling to find suitable and affordable alternatives, compounding the emotional and financial strain on families already under significant stress.
Further, He has urged the Administration to identify and provide an alternative building or facility to temporarily house caregivers until the Dharamshala is fully operational. This measure, he noted, would significantly ease the burden on families and enable them to focus on supporting their loved ones during treatment without the additional challenge of securing accommodations.

 

Renowned Humanitarian Ration Rasheed Honored in the remotest Islands of A&N Islands

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 24: Mr. M P Abdul Rasheed, a distinguished humanitarian, was recently felicitated in the remote village of Sita Nagar, Diglipur, North & Middle Andaman, for his selfless contributions to the community.
As the Chief Guest at GPS Sumati English Medium School, Rasheed left an indelible mark on the residents with his commitment to service. His generous donation of a colour printer to the school was met with immense gratitude, underscoring the positive impact of his contributions on local communities.
Rasheed’s efforts serve as a testament to the unifying power of compassion and altruism, transcending religious and cultural boundaries. His commitment to uplifting the underprivileged and supporting educational institutions is a shining example of the spirit of humanity and mutual respect that binds the diverse communities of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The people of Diglipur were deeply moved by Rasheed’s generosity and the hope he continues to inspire. His commitment to uplifting the underprivileged and supporting educational institutions is a beacon of light, proving that even small gestures can create lasting ripples of change.

Mr C. Arjun, a successful aquapreneur facilitated by ICAR-CIARI to be honoured by the President of India on the 76thRepublic Day

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 24: Mr. C. Arjun, a resident of Sri Vijaya Puram, initiated a freshwater ornamental fish culture start-up in 2021, initially importing 50 varieties of commercially important ornamental fish from Chennai. However, the venture encountered substantial challenges, notably a concerning mortality rate of 70–80% among the newly imported fish, attributed to deficient management practices, and limited knowledge of disease prevention and treatment protocols.

In response to these challenges, a team of scientists from ICAR-CIARI, comprising Dr. J. Praveenraj, Dr. K. Saravanan, and Dr. R. Kiruba-Sankar, provided essential technical guidance on effective quarantine measures, water preparation for aquariums, and comprehensive disease management strategies. Following the implementation of these best practices, Mr. C Arjun achieved a remarkable reduction in mortality to only 5% by utilizing treatments such as potassium permanganate and sodium chloride dip treatments to mitigate stress and combat pathogens.

This success story, meticulously prepared and submitted to the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) by ICAR-CIARI, has garnered significant attention, culminating in recognition from the Hon’ble President of India. Mr. Arjun has been invited to receive honors during the upcoming 76thRepublic Day celebrations at New Delhi. Mr C Arjun expressed profound gratitude to Dr.Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Director of ICAR-CIARI, for their invaluable support in his journey and the recognition of his achievements.

Andaman and Nicobar Police Celebrates 73rd Raising Day with Vibrant “At-Home” Function: Lieutenant Governor, A&N Islands Graced the Occasion

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 24: In a spirited celebration of the 73rd A&N Police Raising Day, the Andaman and Nicobar Police hosted a vibrant “At-Home” function on 24/01/2025 at the Police Lines Parade Ground. The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), Lieutenant Governor of A&N Islands and Vice Chairman, Islands Development Agency, as the Chief Guest.
The occasion also saw the participation of distinguished dignitaries, including Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, AVSM, VM, CINCAN, A&N Command; Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration; Mr. Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal, IPS, Director General of Police, A&N Islands; and other senior officials from the A&N Administration.
The function began with the solemn rendition of the National Anthem, symbolizing the unity, pride, and dedication of the Andaman and Nicobar Police. This ceremonial moment set the tone for the day’s events, which honored the efforts of the force in maintaining peace and security across the region.
The festivities continued with various band performances and captivating musical acts, all fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among the officers, personnel, and esteemed guests. The event provided an opportunity for reflection, appreciation, and the strengthening of bonds between the Andaman and Nicobar Police and various wings of the A&N Administration and A&N Command.
The Andaman and Nicobar Police express gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor, Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), for honoring the occasion with his presence, and extend their heartfelt thanks to all dignitaries and participants for making the event a memorable and significant celebration.

MESSAGE

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On January 25, 2025, we observe the 15th National Voters’ Day, a day dedicated to encouraging, facilitating and maximizing voter enrollment to strengthen the democratic fabric of our nation. This observance also aims to inspire the youth to actively engage in the electoral process, reaffirming India’s commitment to Universal Adult Franchise.
I urge every citizen of these Islands, who has turned 18 years old by January 1, 2025, to enroll as a voter in the Electoral Roll. Citizens reaching the age of 18 by April 1, July 1 or October 1, 2025, may also submit an advance application for voter registration. I also call upon all to exercise their right to vote when the time comes.
It is with great pleasure that I share that, through consistent efforts, Andaman & Nicobar Islands now boasts an electoral roll of 3,11,506 voters, following the revision published on January 6th. Of these, 1,50,276 are women voters.
This year’s theme, “Nothing Like Voting, I vote for Sure,” emphasizes inclusivity and encourages the participation of women, youth, persons with disabilities (PwDs), senior citizens, transgender individuals, service voters, overseas Indians and other marginalized groups. I am confident that the residents of these Islands will enthusiastically embrace this call, playing a pivotal role in realizing this theme and contributing to the ongoing strength and inclusivity of Indian democracy.
The right to vote is a cornerstone of democracy, and every vote counts in shaping our collective future.
I extend my warmest greetings to all on this significant occasion. Let us celebrate our democratic rights and responsibilities with renewed commitment.
Jai Hind !
Sd/-
(Admiral DK Joshi)
PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.)
Lt. Governor, A & N Islands
&
Vice Chairman, Islands Development Agency

 

APPEAL

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It gives me immense pleasure to inform the general public that 15th National Voters’ Day (NVD) is being celebrated throughout Andaman & Nicobar Islands at all levels i.e. Booth Level, Tehsil Level, District Level and UT level on 25th January, 2025 along with the rest of the country with the theme of “Nothing like voting, I vote for sure”. Our aim is to maximize voter enrolment by building awareness amongst all sections of our society.
Under the guidance of Election Commission of India, the Chief Electoral Office is organizing series of activities to mark National Voters’ Day celebration including pledge taking by all staff on 25th January, 2025, drawing, skit, essay, debate competitions on the theme of NVD in Colleges and awareness activities through All India Radio, Doordarshan, Print Media & Social Media etc.
The Special Summary Revision of Photo Electoral Roll-2025 was carried out and the total electors as per final roll published on 06.01.2025 with reference to 01.01.2025 as the qualifying date is 3,11,506, out of which, 1,61,226 are male and 1,50,276 are female while the number of transgender is 4.
For the first time, the Jarawa tribe of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands was included in the voter list, symbolising their integration into the democratic framework of the nation. The enrolment of 19 Jarawa individuals in the electoral rolls, achieved through the submission of FORM 6 to the Booth level Officer at their hamlet in Jirkatang, South Andaman, represents a historic and transformative step. This milestone reflects India’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that even remote and indigenous communities actively participate in the electoral process and contribute to the country’s democratic journey.
In order to ensure hassle free assistance with regard to electoral activities for general public, a toll free Helpline No.1950 has been set up at State Contact Centre & District Contact Centre, which will function on working day during office hours. The voters can also search their particulars online by downloading Voter Helpline App (VHA) or through ECI’s website: https://voters.eci.gov.in and https://www.ceoandaman.nic.in.
I, therefore, appeal to all the eligible voters, especially the youth in the age group of 18-19 years to register themselves as an elector to take part in the electoral process for stronger democracy and to fulfil the theme of the Commission “Nothing like voting, I vote for sure”. I also request all political parties and media to extend their full support and cooperation in this regard.
I extend my sincere greetings to all Islanders on ‘15th National Voters’ Day’.

(Kale Amit Marutirao, IAS)
Chief Electoral Officer,
Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

 

3rd Panchayat Sthapna Diwas Mela- 2025 inaugurated in Gram Panchayat Namunaghar

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 24: On 23rd January 2025, the Gram Panchayat Namunaghar marked the auspicious inauguration of 3rd Sthapna Diwas- 2025 with a vibrant 3 Days Mela from 23 rd to 26th January at Lappa Takri Ground, Ward no. 04 to commemorate the Birth Anniversary of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Shri. Vinayak Chamadia Ji (IAS), SDM, South Andaman accompanied by Block Development Officer of Ferrargunj Tehsil.
The event witnessed the presence of key figures such as Shri. Y. Venkateshwar, Pradhan of GP Namunaghar, Shri. Simson, Up Pramukh Panchayat Samiti Ferrargunj, Shri. P.A Sharfuddin, Zilla Parishad Member, Mithakhari Constituency, Shri. Mohd Safiq, Pradhan GP Mithakhari, Shri. Basheer, Pradhan GP Kanyapuram, Shri. Anand Amrit Raj, Pradhan GP Tushnabad along with all PRIs & Social Workers of GP Namunaghar.
Various government departments and private organizations had set up around 11 stalls, enlightening attendees about diverse schemes of the Government of India and to sell the products prepared by them. The cultural program, featuring singing and dancing performances added a lively atmosphere for the spectators.
The highlight of the event was the unique Stall installed by the youths of Namunaghar which will provide Free Tea, Snacks & Refreshments to all visitors throughout the 3-day Mela. This commendable work is being done by the youths from the last 2 consecutive years. People in large numbers attended the inaugural function of Panchayat Sthapna Diwas Mela and made it a grand success.

 

Illumination of Ships on 26th and 29th Jan 2025

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 24: As part of the Republic Day celebrations in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, ships/vessels of Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and DSS will be illuminated on 26 Jan 25 (Republic Day) and 29 Jan 25 (Beating the Retreat) from 1745h to 2200h at anchorage off the Marine flag post seafront. At 1745h on both the days, the ships would fire colourful flares and switch on the contour illumination lights.