Sri Vijayapuram, Feb 10: Shri Saikat Biswas, Director and Founder of the Ration Rasheed Foundation, along with its members, recently celebrated the remarkable success of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Girls’ team. The 17 talented girls participated in the prestigious South Zone Khelo India Women’s League 2025, held at Kongunadu College, Tamil Nadu, from February 5th to 7th, 2025.
The team delivered an exceptional performance, winning 14 medals in total—6 gold, 4 silver, and 4 bronze. Special appreciation was extended to Shihan MS Murugan (former Sub Inspector, A&N Police IRB), whose invaluable guidance played a crucial role in this incredible accomplishment. This impressive medal haul is particularly notable given the fierce competition at the Khelo India Women’s League, where even securing a bronze medal is a significant achievement.
The dedication and hard work of the athletes not only brought immense pride to the islands but also contributed to India’s glory. Additionally, some of these Pencak Silat athletes have earned the honor of competing at the national level in the 2025 Khelo India Women’s League
Archives for February 11, 2025
Free courses for SC/ST learners at IGNOU Regional Centre, Port Blair
Port Blair, Feb 10: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers various courses in certificate, diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate for learners in Arts, Humanities, Agriculture, Science, Medical Science, Journalism, Law, Education, Continuing Education, Social Work, Vocational Education and Training, Performing and Visual arts, Foreign Languages, Computer and Information Sciences, Health Sciences, Gender and Development Studies, Tourism and Hospitality Service Management etc. In order to reach to all section of the society, IGNOU provides exemption of programme fee to students from SC/ST category as per its policy. For January- 2025 session admission is going on and fee exemption is given
for three courses namely: Bachelor of Arts (BAM), Bachelor of Science (BSCM) and
Bachelor of Commerce (BCOMF). Students are advised to visit the University website or contact the Regional Centre to know about the latest provisions and eligibility for fee exemption. Fresh admission for January 2025 session is currently going on and whole process is online. For more details, regarding the programmes, fees, duration, please visit IGNOU website- www.ignou.ac.in or contact IGNOU Regional Centre, Port Blair located at opposite to AIR Cargo complex, VIP Road, Phone No: 03192-242888, 03192-230111 or Email: rcportblair@ignou.ac.in
Special Drive against Bikers doing stunts and Drunken Driving conducted by Traffic Police
Port Blair, Feb 10: As part of our relentless efforts to enhance road safety and enforce traffic regulations, the Traffic Police Department has intensified its crackdown on reckless and unlawful driving behaviours. During the current year, significant action has been taken against violators to ensure compliance with the law and promote safer roads for all.
Around 189 vehicles seized for drunken driving & more than 30 vehicles confiscated for reckless driving, modified silencers and pressure horns. These bikes create nuisance during evening hours and endanger road safety
Strict action has also been initiated against underage riding and driving without DLs.
The Traffic Police remains committed to enforcing the law with zero tolerance towards traffic violations. Legal proceedings have been initiated against all offenders, and stringent penalties will be imposed as per the Motor Vehicles Act.
Total 30 Two wheelers were confiscated for reckless driving, modified silencers and pressure horns. In which 10 Nos without Number/defective plate, 01 No. Juvenile and his parents were challaned as per the Motor Vehicles Act.
Appeal to the Public:
We urge all citizens to follow traffic rules, drive responsibly, and prioritize safety. Drunken and reckless driving not only endangers the driver but also puts the lives of others at risk. Let us all work together to create a safer and more disciplined driving culture.
General public is also encouraged to report traffic violations such as riding without helmet, Using mobile phone while driving, use of multi tone horn, excess smoke emission, illegal/obstructive parking, retrofitted/modified silencers, rash & negligent driving & triple riding etc. by sending clear photograph/short videos of violation containing clear registration no. of vehicle with date, time and place of offence on the official Whatsapp No. 9531892228 or to inform on the Traffic Control Room Number 03192-243812 for prompt action against the violators.
Capacity Building Programmes for Improving Efficiency:ICAR-CIARI Imparts Hands on Training on Nursery Techniques to the staff of Department of Agriculture
Sri Vijayapuram, February 10: Spices are the major commercial crops of the islands; however, their cultivation in the islands faces several challenges. One of these challenges is non-availability of quality planting material. A number of superior varieties of various spice crops have been developed/ identified at ICAR-CIARI through years of research for improving the profitability of the island agriculture. Also, several efficient nursery techniques for these crops have also been standardized at this Institute. In order to disseminate these recent techniques and educate the grassroot as well as managerial level staff working at various farms of the Department of Agriculture, two consecutive capacity building programmes entitled “Hands-on training on nursery techniques of Horticultural Crops (Spices)” of three days each were organized by ICAR-CIARI in collaboration with CSS-MIDH(NHM) Project on Spices during February 04 to 08, 2025.
The technical sessions were handled by Dr. Ajit Arun Waman, Senior Scientist cumCourse Director of the programmes and Dr. Pooja Bohra, Senior Scientist cum Course Co-Director. A total of 28 participants representing 18 farms of the department spread across all three districts of the islands attended the programme. Technical session started with an orientation to propagation techniques and basic requirements to establish and run a nursery unit. Trainees were then taken to the Horticultural Plants Propagation Unit of the Institute, wherein they were given exposure about various types of polyhouses, shade net houses and poly tunnels required for planting material production. Creation of suitable microclimate inside these structures through manual operated and sensor-operated micro-sprinklers and foggers were demonstrated to them. Use of drip irrigation, sprinklers, weed mats etc. for the mother blocks and nursery units was also demonstrated.
Participants underwent hands on training on multiplication of spices viz. black pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, tejpat, woody pepper and sapota using suitable vegetative propagation techniques including stem cutting (herbaceous, softwood, semi-hardwood and hardwood), layering (air layering and serpentine layering) and grafting (approach grafting and softwood grafting). Practical sessions on plant growth regulators preparation for cutting/layering, preparation of potting mixtures, use of biocontrol agents, biopesticides, Bt formulation, Bordeaux mixture and paste were also organized during the programme. An exclusive session was dedicated for demonstration of Dweep Goottee- 365 technique (a novel propagation technique developed by ICAR-CIARI) to the participants. Dr. E.B. Chakurkar, Director, ICAR-CIARI was the Chief Guest during the valedictory programme of both the batches.He urged the participants to utilize the knowledge gained in the training programmes for achieving self-sufficiency in spices planting material production in the islands.He further opined that such inter-organizational collaborations would pave way for the better prospects of island agriculture and island farmers. Participants of both the batches expressed that the programme was aptly designed and empowered them with required skills in taking up their assignments with higher efficiency.The practical sessions were assisted by Mr. Sandip Kujur, Mr. Dilip Kumar, Mr. Pradeep Kerketta, Ms. Karthika Devi and Ms. Kausalya of the institute.
One day district level workshop-cum-training programme on prevention and control of snake bite envenoming at PHC Tushnabad
Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 11: One day district level workshop-cum-training programme on prevention and control of snake bite envenoming organised by Directorate of Health Services in association with National Health Mission on 11th Feburary 2025 at PHC Tushnabad. Participants were MOs, CHO, Staff Nurse, ANM, PHN, HE, MHW, ASHA and ICDS workers.
Dr. Subrata Saha, State Nodal Officer, Prevention & Control of Snake bite Envenoming, A & N Administration highlighted the critical role of healthcare workers in reducing mortality and morbidity caused by snake bites. During the workshop he also highlighted the importance of timely medical intervention, proper referral mechanisms administration of anti-snake venom (ASV) and treatment associated with snake envenomation.
Dr. Rajiv Kumar Gosh, BHMS, District Public Health Officer focused on key aspects such as early identification of snake bites, first aid measures and community awareness strategies and provide valuable insights into evidence-based management and best practices for snake bite envenoming.
This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts by the Directorate of Health Services to build capacity among healthcare providers and ensure effective emergency response mechanisms at the grassroots level.
The participants were earlier welcomed by Mrs. Banani Mridha, Bio Medical Engineer. Around 55 participants were benefitted from this training programme.
The programme concluded with a discussion on challenges faced by healthcare professionals in handling snake bite cases. Participants expressed their appreciation for the initiative and pledged to apply the knowledge gained to improve patient outcomes in their respective healthcare facilities.
DBRAIT to Showcase Local Craftsmanship at ‘Kriti’ Craft Bazaar on Feb. 11 & 12
Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 10: Celebrating the craftsmanship of local youth, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Institute of Technology (DBRAIT) is organizing a Craft Bazaar named ‘Kriti’, showcasing the creative talents of Skill Development Program (SDP) Trainees of Fashion and Apparel Designing Course on 11th & 12th February, 2025 from 3 pm to 7 pm at TGCE Hall, Middle Point.
Ms. Smitha R, IAS, Secretary (Power), A&N Administration will inaugurate the Exhibition-cum-Bazaar at 3 pm tomorrow. The exhibition will showcase a diverse range of handmade garments, Handicraft and Artworks comprising intricate and exquisite pieces of stylish and vibrant garments.
The Craft Bazaar will be open for general public for witnessing the treasure of unique, handcrafted creations by the talented trainees of SDP.
Safer Internet Day 2025 Celebrated with Awareness Workshop at Chouldhari Gram Panchayat and TGCE
Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 11: The National Informatics Centre (NIC), Sri Vijaya Puram, in collaboration with the C-DAC under the ISEA Project, successfully organized an Awareness Workshop on the occasion of Safer Internet Day 2025 on 11th February, 2025 from 10:30 to 12:00 pm at Chouldhari Community Hall, Chouldhari Gram Panchayat under South Andaman District and at the auditorium of Tagore Govt. College of Education, Sri Vijaya Puram. The event, held under the global theme “Together for a Better Internet,” aimed to educate citizens about safe online practices, cyber hygiene, and protection against digital threats.
The workshop at Chouldhari Gram Panchayat witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 90 attendees, including PRI members, students, teachers, farmers, and general public. The Guest of Honours was Mr. Shivaji Mukherjee, SIO NIC Andaman and Nicobar UT Centre, Branch Manager, SBI, Chouldhari Branch and Officials from Cyber Crime Cell, AN Police.
The workshop at TGCE witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 120 attendees, including Vice Chairman, Municipal Corporation, interns of ANIIMS, students, teachers, farmers, representatives of the business community, and the general public. The Guest of Honours were Mr. Ravi Chandran, Vice Chairman, SVPMC, The Principal, TGCE, ASIO NIC Andaman and Nicobar UT Centre, Branch Manager, PNB, Garacharma Branch and Officials from Cyber Crime Cell, AN Police.
The session covered essential topics such as cybersecurity best practices, online fraud prevention, responsible internet usage, and effective digital safety measures.
Experts from NIC, Sri Vijaya Puram, Cybercrime Cell, SBI Chouldhari Branch, PNB Garacharma conducted interactive sessions, providing valuable insights on how to stay safe in the digital world. Practical demonstrations and case studies helped participants understand emerging cyber threats and proactive ways to mitigate them.
The event concluded with a pledge to promote cybersecurity awareness and a commitment to fostering a safer and more responsible digital ecosystem. The initiative received positive feedback, with participants expressing their gratitude for the informative and engaging sessions.
IHM Chennai Reserves 10 Seats for A&N Students in Hospitality & Hotel Administration Course
Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 10: The Principal, Institute of Hotel Management Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition (IHM), IV Cross Street, CIT Campus, TTTI-Taramani, Chennai vide letter dated 06.02.2025 has informed that National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology (NCHMCT), the umbrella organization of Ministry of Tourism, GoI, Noida, UP has reserved 10 seats for the Academic Year 2025-26 for admission to 1st Year B.Sc in Hospitality & Hotel Administration programme in IHM, Chennai especially for the students belonging to Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The above degree is being awarded by Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi. As per the guidelines of JNU, all candidates are required to appear for the National Council for Hotel Management Joint Entrance Examination (NCHM JEE-2025) to be conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA) from the Academic Year 2025-26.
The schedule of NCHM-JEE 2025 are as follows:
a) Link for submission of online applications https://exams.nta.ac.in/NCHM/
b) Closing date of submission of Online Applications 15.02.2025 (Upto 05:00 PM)
c) Last date of successful fee transaction 15.02.2025 (Upto 11:50 PM)
d) Correction in the particulars of Application Form Online only 17.02.2025 to 20.02.2025
e) Date of examination 27.04.2025 (Sunday)
f) Visit Website www.ihmchennai.org / www.nta.ac.in
Hence, all the students of the UT of Andaman and Nicobar Islands those who are interested for admission to 1st Year B.Sc in Hospitality & Hotel Administration programme reserved at Institute of Hotel Management Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition (IHM), CIT Campus, TTI-Taramani, Chennai for the academic session 2025-2026 will have to appear for the National Council for Hotel Management Joint Entrance Examination (NCHM JEE-2025) to be conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA).
From the Academic Session 2025-26 onwards, the 10 seats in B.Sc in Hospitality & Hotel Administration course reserved at IHM, Chennai will be allotted by the Administration to the candidates based on the merit of National Council for Hotel Management Joint Entrance Examination (NCHM JEE-2025) conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA) and as per the distribution criteria/formula fixed by the Govt. of India, Ministry of Home Affairs.
The details such as eligibility/duration/timings/medium/fee of examination/exam cities/important dates/Information Bulletin etc. relating to NCHM JEE-2025 exam are available on the website https://exams.nta.ac.in/NCHM/ and www.nta.ac.in
Power Interruption
Sri Vijayapuram, February 10: Power supply will remain suspended in the following area on 12.02.2025 from 0700 hrs. to 1200 hrs. in connection with replacement of rusted channels of electric poles near Maruti Workshop at Garacharma. The Panther-I and Panther-2 transmission lines, along with the Garacharma and Dollygunj feeders, will be shut down during the above mentioned work.
Date Area affected Timing
From To
12.02.2025
(Wednesday)
and
15.02.2025
(Saturday) Agency House, Garacharama complete & 5 MW Solar Power Plant area, Part of Garacharama, Dollygunj, Attam Pahad, Old Pahargaon, ICMR Colony area, part of Minnie Bay. 0700 Hrs. 1200
Hrs.
The aforementioned time is tentative. If the work is completed before the scheduled time, the feeder/line will be recharged accordingly.
For further inquiries, please visit the Electricity Department’s website at https://vidyut.andaman.gov.in.
Consumers facing any issues related to the power supply may call the toll-free number 1800-345-1111 to register their complaints.
Students in A&N Islands Participate in ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025’ Live Screening
Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 10: The ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’-2025 programme was screened live in the conference hall of DBRAIT, Sri Vijaya Puram today by the Education Department of A&N Administration. School students from different schools of town witnessed the live ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ programme, drawing inspiration from the motivational words of the Hon’ble Prime Minister. About 300 students of class 10th and 12th from various schools of Sri Vijaya Puram who will be appearing for the board exams witnessed the programme and were motivated through the enriching words of our Hon’ble Prime Minister.
The highlight of this years’ programme was Ms. Akshara J Nair from PM SHRI, School Campbell Bay interacting with the Hon’ble Prime Minister at Sunder Nursery, New Delhi along with 35 students selected across India.
Two students each namely Ms. S. Varsha Rani of Govt. Girls Sr. Sec. School, Sri Vijaya Puram and Mr. Mohd. Ayaan of Govt. Model Sr. Sec. School Aberdeen had attended in the 6th session at Mumbai and two students namely Ms. Akshara J Nair from PM SHRI, School Campbell Bay and Mr. G. Tejeesh of Nirmala Sr. Sec School were selected for the final session for 8th Edition of PPC-2025 at New Delhi to participate in the Pariksha Pe Charcha-2025, New Delhi. These students had the privilege of witnessing the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path at New Delhi on January 26, 2025.
While interacting with the students, Principal SIE & Nodal Officer, ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’, Smt. Sangeeta Chand said that it’s a privilege that in A&N Islands 90 % of the students had registered for the 8th edition of ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ due to which, four students two each were selected to travel to Mumbai & Delhi.
An online interaction with Ms. Akshara J Nair from PM SHRI, School Campbell Bay was also arranged for the benefit of the students present in the Conference Hall wherein Ms Akshara shared her experience meeting & interacting with Hon’ble PM Modi Ji along with other students. She also interacted with the students and answered queries raised by the students present in the Conference Hall.
Simultaneously, elaborate arrangements were also made by the Education Department for the live screening of the programme in all the Schools spread across the Islands. Altogether, 37702 participated including Students, Parents and Teachers from Schools of A & N Islands witnessed the live streaming of ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ 2025.