ANDAMAN SHEEKHA

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Archives for March 2025

Unsafe Electric Poles, Dangling Wires: Calicut Pradhan Urges Urgent Repairs to Prevent Hazards

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Rabindranath Biswas
Calicut, Mar 02: The Pradhan, Gram Panchayat Calicut, South Andaman Mr. Yaghambaram T has raised a host of issues in regard to the shortcomings of the Electricity Department’s infrastructure in areas under his Gram Panchayat.
According to information, there are several pressing electrical infrastructure issues in the Calicut Ward. No. 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, and 08, which pose serious threats to public safety and disrupt the daily lives of residents.

Speaking to Andaman Sheekha Daily, the Pradhan said that he has recently written a letter to the Secretary (Power), A & N Administration, Sri Vijaya Puram apprising him of the problems owing these issues and urging him to address them on priority.

A number of the electric poles in these areas are reportedly old and rusted, making them structurally weak and vulnerable to collapse. This condition poses a severe risk, especially during adverse weather conditions such as storms, the Pradhan forewarned. There are electric cables which are reportedly dangling in these areas, creating danger to both human and animal lives, the Pradhan said. In fact, the Poles are fixed in a long distance causing the electric line to dangle and Streetlights are provided at a long distance due to which the public are reportedly facing problems. And due to the dangling of these electric cables, the risk of electrocution or accidental contact is high, especially for children, pedestrians, and animals that roam freely in the locality, he cautioned.

There is reportedly a conspicuous shortage of electric poles in the areas and the situation is a significant safety hazard, the Pradhan decried. On the other hand, the existing transformers are reportedly often inadequate to meet the growing power demands of the residents. This leads to frequent power outages and voltage fluctuations in the region, Mr. Yaghambaram claimed. Loose or exposed cables are reportedly another recurring issue in these areas. These loose cables are not only prone to causing electrical faults but also serve as a potential cause for fire hazards and electrocution, the Pradhan mentioned in his letter.

Shri Yaghambaram urged the authority to impress upon the concerned officials to address these issues and ensure the safety of the residents in these areas, the Pradhan pleaded in his letter, he further said.

One more young Chess Player Achieves International rating

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 02: It is a moment of pride for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as young chess talent AIM Roshan Senthil Kumar has opened his classical international chess rating with an impressive FIDE Rating of 1687, as per the FIDE March 2025 Rating list published by the World Chess Federation yesterday.
AIM Roshan recently participated in the Star Chess Foundation 1st International Open FIDE Rating Chess Tournament 2025, held in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, from 8th to 11th February. He delivered an outstanding performance, securing a performance rating of 1664 by defeating five rated players. His remarkable gameplay earned him recognition as the second-best unrated player of the tournament, along with a cash prize of ₹5,000 and a certificate.
The Andaman Nicobar Chess Association (ANCA) congratulates AIM Roshan Senthil Kumar on this milestone and extends its best wishes for his future tournaments.

Grand Maha Shivaratri Celebrations at Lord Shree Venkateshwara Temple, Haddo

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 02: The Lord Sree Venkateshwara Temple Committee in Haddo organized a magnificent Maha Shivaratri celebration, bringing together devotees in a spiritual and festive atmosphere. The event was graced by esteemed personalities, adding to the significance of this sacred occasion.
The presence of Dr. K. Chandrasekar, President of ACCI, Ration Rasheed, a dedicated social worker, and Dr. Nitu Sindhu, a Ph.D. Agriculture Researcher and agri-entrepreneur, added immense value to the event. Their participation not only honored the temple but also reinforced the spirit of community and devotion among attendees.
Adding to the vibrancy of the event, the temple committee organized a cultural program, which was thoroughly enjoyed by both the devotees and the esteemed guests. The performances showcased traditional music, dance, and devotional songs, creating an atmosphere of joy and reverence. These artistic expressions added a unique charm to the celebrations, leaving everyone mesmerized.
Maha Shivaratri, known as the ‘Great Night of Shiva’, is a time for prayer, fasting, and seeking Lord Shiva’s divine blessings. Devotees thronged the temple, participating in bhajans, Rudrabhishek rituals, and spiritual discourses that resonated through the night. The sacred chants and the fragrance of incense created a divine aura, making the celebration deeply memorable.

A&N Islands Department of Art and Culture Announces Short Film and Photography Contest to Celebrate the Islands’ Heritage and Beauty

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 02: With an objective to create awareness on the history, beauty, culture and heritage of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and capture and preserve the same, the Department of Art and Culture, A&N Administration is organizing a Short Film Contest as well as a Photo Competition through online mode, on the themes related to Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The contest gives an incredible opportunity to the participants to showcase their creativity, storytelling skills and passion for film making and photography while promoting the unique charm of these incredible Islands.

Participants are encouraged to capture the Islands’ breathtaking landscapes and historical places. The themes may focus on the natural beauty & heritage, history, composite culture, flora, fauna, marine biodiversity, tourism and sustainable practices of these Islands, capturing the essence of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Applications can be submitted till the midnight of 15.04.2025. All entries must be submitted on andaman.mygov.in. Entries submitted through any other medium/mode would not be considered for evaluation. Each participant will be allowed to submit only one entry. The top three winners in each category (photo and short film) will receive a certificate, while recognition will also be given at the UT level with reward from the Andaman & Nicobar Administration.

The details of the contests and terms and conditions can be seen at https://andaman.mygov.in/task/capture-beauty-andaman-and-nicobar-islands-%E2%80%93-photography-contest and

https://andaman.mygov.in/task/untold-stories-andaman-nicobar-islands-short-film-contests

Admiral DK Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff, Visits A&N Islands

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 02: Admiral DK Tripathi, PVSM, AVSM, NM, Chief of the Naval Staff on visit to A&N Islands from 01st-04th March, 2025 called on Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), Lt. Governor, A&N Islands and Vice-Chairman, Islands Development Agency at Raj Niwas. Perspective plans, force accretion, augmentation of assets & strategic infra development projects in Andaman & Nicobar Administration area of responsibility were discussed.

 

Fit India Wind, Waves & Wellness Event Successfully Conducted at Corbyn’s Cove & Little Andaman

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 02: The Sports Authority of India (SAI), Sri Vijayapuram (Port Blair), in collaboration with the Directorate of Information, Publicity & Tourism (IP&T) and the Directorate of Education & Youth Affairs, successfully organized the Fit India Wind, Waves & Wellness Event at Corbyn’s Cove Beach, Sri Vijayapuram and Children Park, Little Andaman on Sunday, March 2, 2025.
The event at Little Andaman was graced by Mr. Chandrabhushan Kumar, Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, Mr. Hargobind Singh Dhaliwal, Director General of Police, Smt. Jyoti Kumari, Secretary, IP&T, Ms. Purva Garg, Secretary, APWD, and Mr. Sandeep Behera, DCF (Wildlife). Meanwhile, the event at Corbyn’s Cove, Sri Vijayapuram, was honored by the presence of Mr. Satyajit Sankrit, Deputy Director General, SAI.
The morning kicked off with the ‘Sundays on Cycle’ initiative at 6:30 AM, followed by a series of engaging fitness and recreational activities such as yoga demonstration, tug of war, coconut shot put, beach volleyball, and live painting. Participants from diverse backgrounds came together, embracing the spirit of fitness, wellness, and community participation.
With over 300 participants, the event successfully embodied the core vision of the Fit India Movement, encouraging individuals to incorporate physical activity and well-being into their daily lives.
On behalf of SAI, Sri Vijayapuram, heartfelt gratitude was extended to all stakeholders, participants, and the A&N Administration for their unwavering support, which contributed to the seamless execution of the event.

Relentless Police Efforts Lead to Landmark POCSO Conviction

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 02: The North & Middle Andaman Police once again uphelds their unwavering dedication to justice demonstrating the determination in ensuring swift and decisive action against offenders.
On 28/02/2025, in a landmark judgment, the Special Judge (POCSO) Mr. Subhajit Basu has sentenced the accused in a POCSO case, Crime No. 41/2023, of PS Baratang to 20 years of Rigorous Imprisonment along with a fine of Rs.20,000/-.
This significant achievement was the result of the relentless pursuit of justice and meticulous investigation by SI Silpa Dutta, the Investigation Officer, and SI Surjit Bhattacharjee, SHO, PS Baratang. Their dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts played a crucial role in securing justice for the victim and ensuring that the accused was held accountable for his crimes.
The henious crime involved the victim who was a full-blooded younger sister of the accused being sexually assaulted by him. The victim resided with him in their parental home—a place where she should have been safe and protected. However, in a grave betrayal of familial values and trust, she was subjected to multiple aggravated sexual assaults by her own elder brother. On 13/12/2023, upon receiving the victim’s complaint, a case was registered at PS Baratang U/s 5(1)(n)/6/9(1)(n)/10 of the POCSO Act 2012, leading to swift legal action against the accused.
This landmark judgement serves as a strong and unequivocal warning that crimes against children will be met with the severest punishment under the law. The A&N Police upholds a zero-tolerance policy against such heinous offenses and remains steadfast in our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of society’s most vulnerable members.
The Andaman & Nicobar Police commend the exceptional investigative efforts of the officers involved and reaffirm our unwavering dedication to upholding the rule of law, delivering justice, and safeguarding the rights of all.
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.

Swachh Bharat Ambassador Naresh Chander Lal Visits PHC Tushnabad, Urges Cleanliness and Sanitation

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 02: To Check cleanliness and sanitation under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Mr. Naresh Chander Lal, Padmashri Awardee and Ambassador of Swachh Bharat Mission Andaman & Nicobar Islands, today visited the Primary Health Centre Tusnabad and interacted with the Patients, out – patients, attenders and staff of the PHC and urged them to maintain cleanliness at their health centre premises as well as to their respective societies.
Dr Ambedkar Medical officer in charge of PHC accompanied the SBM Ambassador during the visit.

 

Maharashtra Mandal Observes 59th Death Anniversary of Veer Vinayak Damodar Savarkar

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 02: Maharashtra Mandal, Mr. Vijaya Puram, solemnly observed the 59th Death Anniversary of Veer Vinayak Damodar Savarkar with a grand tribute at the Auditorium of Maharashtra Mandal. The event witnessed a gathering of over 400 followers of Veer Savarkar, alongside distinguished guests and dignitaries.
The program commenced with the garlanding of Veer Savarkar’s portrait, followed by floral tributes from all attendees. Mr. Gorakhnath Patil, President of Maharashtra Mandal, delivered the welcome address, highlighting Savarkar’s immense contribution to India’s independence movement and his influence on modern nationalist thought.
Mr. Arvind Patil, Secretary of Maharashtra Mandal, provided an overview of the event, emphasizing the importance of keeping Savarkar’s vision alive through continued discussions and youth engagement. This was followed by a keynote address by Mrs. Archna Harse, Joint Secretary, Maharashtra Mandal, who elaborated on Savarkar’s revolutionary ideas and their impact on India’s freedom struggle.
The event was graced by Dr. Sachidanand Shevde, International Orator & Writer from Mumbai, Maharashtra, as the Chief Guest, who delivered a compelling speech on Veer Savarkar’s unwavering patriotism and his role in shaping India’s revolutionary movement. He also recited a heartfelt poem dedicated to Savarkar, reflecting on his sacrifices and vision for a self-reliant nation.
Mr. Naresh Chander Lal, Padma Mr. Awardee (Film and Theatre), attended as the Guest of Honor, sharing his thoughts on how Savarkar’s ideology continues to inspire various fields, including literature and performing arts. Mr. CH Hemant Kumar, a renowned multilingual scholar and National Literature Awardee 2024, was the Special Guest, who spoke about Savarkar’s extensive literary contributions and how his writings played a pivotal role in India’s nationalist movement.
A key highlight of the program was the presence of Mr. Satyaki Savarkar, Grandson of Veer Savarkar, and Mr. Neeraj Godse, Grandson of Nathuram Godse, who travelled from the mainland to pay their respects. Their presence was a testament to the lasting legacy of Veer Savarkar and his continued relevance in India’s national consciousness.
The program was successfully organized ensuring a meaningful and well-executed tribute to Veer Savarkar. The event served as a fitting homage to the legacy of Veer Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, inspiring attendees to uphold his values of patriotism, selfless service, and dedication to national unity.

 

A&N Administration to Release Book of Traditional Nicobarese Folktales and Folk Songs; Invites Participation in Cultural Competition

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Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 02: With the objective of preserving and promoting the language, customs, and identity of the Nicobarese people, the Department of Art & Culture, A&N Administration will soon come up with a book of traditional Nicobarese folktales and folk songs, showcasing the diverse cultural expressions of the Nicobarese community. This vibrant initiative seeks the participation of students, school children, tribal members, and Government Servants from the Nicobarese community across various Islands of the Nicobar group. To achieve this objective through crowdsourcing, competitions will be held for students as well as Nicobarese persons of all Islands in the Nicobar District.
The competition will be held in two categories: Stories and Songs. Under the Stories category, participants are invited to submit traditional folktales, personal anecdotes, myths, legends, etc. In the Songs category, participants can present folk songs, ceremonial songs, lullabies, etc. The competition is open to students from classes 9th -12th from all schools across the Nicobar District, as well as members of the Nicobarese tribe, including Tribal Captains, community leaders, elders, and Government Servants. Entries must be submitted in the Nicobarese language, accompanied by translations in English or Hindi.
Separate Competitions will be held Sub-Division wise of Nicobar District. The Deputy Commissioner (Nicobar District) will organize these competitions for Car Nicobar Sub-Division, Nancowry Sub-Division and Campbell Bay Subdivision.
The first three winners in each category will be awarded with cash prizes. Top three entries in each category from each island will receive certificates and cash prizes (Rs 10,000/-, Rs 8,000/- and Rs 5,000/- and 5 Consolation prizes @ Rs 2,000/- respectively. However, all authentic entries will be featured in the book.
The competitions will begin on March 1, 2025, with the last date for submission of entries being March 31, 2025. This dynamic competition will serve as a platform for the Nicobarese community to share and celebrate their cultural heritage, ensuring that these cherished stories and songs are passed down to future generations. The book containing such folktales and folk songs will be released by 01.05.2025.