Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 12: Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament from Andaman & Nicobar Islands, has made an urgent appeal to the Prime Minister, Home Minister, Health and Family Welfare and Minister of Civil Aviation of Govt. of India for urgent intervention in addressing the healthcare deficiencies and medical evacuation challenges in A&N Islands.
In his letter, Mr. Ray, MP has categorically stated that the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, due to their remote geographical location, lack adequate healthcare infrastructure, particularly for critical medical cases such as brain hemorrhages, strokes, severe head injuries, spinal fractures, and other life-threatening conditions. The GB Pant Hospital, the only hospital in the Islands, is frequently forced to refer patients to mainland hospitals in Chennai, Kolkata, Vizag, and Delhi due to the absence of neurosurgeons and other specialists.
Despite this, no financial assistance is provided by the government for air stretcher or air ambulance services. Under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme (PM-JAY), only airfare for the patient and one attendant based on recommendation of the doctor who referred the patient, is covered, leaving families to bear the exorbitant cost of Rs. 3 to 4 lakh for stretcher evacuations. Further, the availability of air stretcher services is brutally restricted due to the reluctance of airlines namely Air India, Air India Express, Indigo, Spiece Jet, Akasa Air operating on the Port Blair-mainland routes. Many critically ill patients have lost their lives due to the reasons, airline delays in confirming stretcher bookings, sometimes up to 10 days, unreasonable conditions, such as requiring immediate booking confirmations within 20 minutes, unpredictable pricing for stretcher services, lack of government intervention to ensure timely medical evacuations.
Mr. Ray, in his letter also emphasizes that for the past five years, repeated appeals by islanders have gone unheard, with no concrete steps taken by the government or the A&N Administration to provide financial or logistical support for critical patients. He also further stated that despite being in office for over eight years, the Lt. Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands has failed to improve the healthcare sector and take decisive action. Instead of finding solutions, the administration is merely recording patient death rates without any proactive measures.
Given the critical nature of this issue, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray urges the Prime Minister and other concerned Union Ministers to take immediate action and prevent the avoidable loss of innocent lives in the Andaman & Nicobar. To address these issues, he suggested the following actions urgently.
a. An urgent meeting may be convened with all airlines operating on these routes, directing them not to deny or delay requests for emergency stretcher patients from Sri Vijayapuram (Port Blair) to mainland sectors (Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Vizag etc.) and fix a minimum uniform rate for the stretcher patient on all the airlines operating these routes including minimum rate for air ambulance.
b. Airlines must prioritize medical emergencies over regular passengers, as denying air stretcher services to critically ill patients is both an ethical violation and a threat to public health.
c. An appropriate financial assistance scheme (100% funded by the government/UT Administration) may be introduced urgently for stretcher patients and Air ambulance referred by government and private hospitals in Andaman & Nicobar Islands to ensure timely medical evacuation and prevent avoidable loss of life since the Ayushman Bharat Scheme (PM-JAY) does not provide any financial support/assistance for the stretcher patient/Air ambulance charges on emergency other than an airfare for patient and one attendant.
d. A Nodal Officer from the A&N Administration may be appointed to handle matters between airlines regarding stretcher/air ambulance services and to make necessary arrangements for the immediate transfer of critical patients from Sri Vijayapuram to the mainland, ensuring better coordination to facilitate patient
Archives for March 12, 2025
ENT Specialist Dr. Bilwa Harsha Moturi Joins Apollo Clinic in Sri Vijaya Puram
Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 12: In a significant boost to healthcare accessibility in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dr. Bilwa Harsha Moturi, a distinguished ENT specialist and Senior ENT Consultant specializing in Head & Neck surgery has joined Apollo Clinic in Sri Vijaya.
Now residents of Andaman and Nicobar Islands can now access advanced ear, nose, and throat care without the need to travel to the mainland, marking a milestone in local healthcare services.
Dr. Moturi, a highly skilled doctor, brings a wealth of expertise to Apollo Clinic. He holds an impressive academic background with qualifications including MBBS, DLO, and MS in ENT. His specialization spans a wide range of ENT conditions, addressing common and complex issues alike.
From ear infections, hearing loss, and tinnitus to sinus problems, nasal polyps, allergies, and snoring disorders like sleep apnea, Dr. Moturi offers comprehensive care. He is also adept at managing vertigo, thyroid nodules, and diagnosing cancerous lesions in the mouth, ensuring early detection and timely intervention for critical conditions.
In addition to his diagnostic prowess, Dr. Moturi is an accomplished surgeon with hands-on experience in numerous ENT procedures. His surgical expertise includes adeno-tonsillectomy, functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), septoplasty, turbinoplasty, ear lobe repair, and micro ear surgery.
He also performs advanced procedures like ENDO DCR, DL scopy with biopsy, and foreign body removal from the ear, nose, and throat, catering to both emergency and elective needs of patients.
Dr. Moturi will be available for consultations at Apollo Clinic, Sri Vijaya Puram, from Monday to Saturday, with morning slots from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and evening slots from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Apollo Clinic continues its mission to bring world-class healthcare to the doorstep of islanders, and Dr. Moturi’s arrival strengthens this commitment.
For appointments, residents can contact Apollo Clinic at +91-9531807777 or 03192-252522.
Andaman Achieves Medical Milestone with First Robotic-Assisted Surgery at G.B. Pant Hospital
Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar. 12: In a historic medical achievement as part of the 3 days Workshop-cum-Demo organized by Merit Endo Surgery, human extension robotic arm was introduced to these Islands for the first time. The workshop aimed to provide latest advancements in robotic-assisted surgery, with live demonstrations provided to all Surgical Departments and Gynecologists.
On the last day of the workshop, Dr. Saji Vargheese and his dedicated team have successfully performed region’s first Robotic Surgery (Gall Bladder and Fundoplication Surgeries) using human extension robotic arm. This milestone not only showcases G.B. Pant Hospital’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technology but also promises significant benefits for patients requiring complex surgical procedures.
Andaman Law College to Launch IGNOU Study Center for Law Programs; International Women’s Day Celebrates with Empowerment Discussions
Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 12: Andaman Law College is going to start a study center of IGNOU in all law related programs. Law College and IGNOU Regional Center are working on modalities in this regard. This study center will help the law students to pursue law related programs as an add on certifications to their credits. This was announced at a meeting held at Andaman Law College in connection with International Women’s Day. IGNOU Regional Center has organised this program in associating with Andaman Law College today.
In this program, Ms Smitha R, IAS, Secretary (Power & Archives) attended as a Chief Guest and stressed the need to empowering women in every facet of their lives. Chief Editor, The Daily Telegrams Ms Ms Radha Kanak Chatteejee has graced the occasion as a Guest of Honor. Ms Suparna Biswas, senior advocate was invited as keynote speaker and she briefly explained the features of POSH Act and its intricacies.
It is followed by cultural program by students of Law College that includes skit, solo classical dance. Prizes were distributed among winners in various competitions on this occasion. Programme started by lighting a lamp by the dignitaries. Meeting commenced with the opening remarks of Principal Andaman Law College Dr PVN Sarma.
In the program, IGNOU Regional Director of Regional Centre Dr Sunil Jocab delivered the felicitation address and congratulated the students who won prizes and awards for their academic achievements from IGNOU.
Dr. Sudarshan Raja, ARD, IGNOU Regional Centre has proposed vote of thanks.
Governing Body Member of A&N Islands attends 11th NFDB Governing Body aeeting at Hyderabad
Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 12: Mr. S.U. Maheshwar Rao, Governing Body Member of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, participated in the 11th Governing Body Meeting of the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) in Hyderabad. The meeting, graced by Mr. Rajive Ranjan, Union Minister of Fisheries; Mr. George Kurion, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying; and Mr. S.P. Singh Bhangel, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying focused on reviewing the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and discussing key initiatives to boost the fisheries and aquaculture sector in A&N Islands.
During the discussions, Mr. S U Maheshwar Rao highlighted the immense Tuna fishing potential of A&N Islands and stressed the need for introducing specialized deep-sea Tuna longliners and promoting the conversion of existing fishing vessels for deep-sea tuna fishing. This initiative aims to enhance participation of local fishers in large-scale fisheries, creating new economic opportunities. The agenda of 10th GB meeting were approved which includes establishment of Integrated Aqua park, implementation of Deep Sea fishing component PMMSY, declaration of Tuna as State Fish.
Additionally, Mr. S.U Maheshwar Rao raised concerns over pending claims under the Group Accident Insurance Scheme and called for an early resolution. To strengthen training and capacity building, he proposed the development of a Training of Trainers (ToT) module exclusively for Fisheries Department officials. This module would cover areas such as mariculture, shrimp farming, fishing technology, fish processing, and value addition, reducing dependence on mainland training programs and empowering local stakeholders.Dr. Ramesh Chand, Professor, Member NITI Ayog emphasized the need to focus on creation of modern marketing facilities in A&N Islands for post-harvest management.
Chief Executive of NFDB, Dr. B.K Behera, ARS assured full support for these initiatives and committed to personal intervention in relaxing certain guidelines to expand PMMSY coverage in A&N Islands. She also emphasized the need for awareness drives across the Islands to accelerate implementation and ensure timely achievement of targets. Furthermore, NFDB pledged to organize training programs both in mainland research institutes and within the Islands, building a skilled resource team to empower fishers, farmers, and entrepreneurs in the fisheries sector.
The National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) has approved a special scheme under PMMSY to support small-scale traditional fishermen by providing subsidies for the replacement of fishing boats and essential fishing equipment. This initiative covers fishing boats, nets/gear (monofilament, nylon, HDPE), life jackets, life buoys, communication devices, fish holding boxes, and other critical safety and operational equipment, ensuring enhanced efficiency, safety, and sustainability for traditional fishers.
The meeting marked a significant step towards the sustainable development of the fisheries sector in A&N Islands, improving livelihoods and ensuring long-term economic growth under PMMSY.
Revised Sailing Time for Vessel Nalanda: Departure Postponed to 1400 Hrs on March 15
Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar. 12:The passengers have been informed that due to Administrative reasons, the scheduled departure time of the vessel Nalanda for Chennai on Mar.15, 2025 at 1000 hrs from Sri Vijaya Puram has been postponed. Now, the vessel will sail for Chennai on the same day i.e. on March 15, 2025 at 1400 hrs from Haddo Wharf. Embarkation of passengers will commence at 1200 hours and boarding will be closed 45 minutes before departure time of the vessel.
National Action Plan for Skill Development of Persons with Disabilities (NAP-SDP)
Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 12: The National Action Plan for Skill Development of Persons with Disabilities (NAP-SDP) is a dedicated skill development program aimed at providing high-quality vocational training with a focus on Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). The primary objectives of this scheme are:
To enhance the skills of Persons with Disabilities by providing quality vocational skill training, enabling them to gain meaningful employment.
To empower PwDs to become self-reliant, productive, and contributing members of society.
The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPWD) has announced the revision of its Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the National Action Plan for Skill Development of Persons with Disabilities (NAP-SDP). This revision seeks to streamline the process for engaging government and non-government organizations to provide skill training to Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). This revised SOP aims to enhance the efficiency and transparency of skill training for PwDs, ensuring better outcomes for their inclusion in the workforce.
Interested Government and Non-Government Organizations may submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) or Project Specific Proposal (PSP) through the PM-DAKSH-DEPWD portal. This is to provide skill training to Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in NSQF-aligned courses approved by NCVET.
For further information, the guidelines of (NAP-SDP) Scheme alongwith revised SOP is available on https://depwd.gov.in.
Doordarshan Kendra Sri Vijaya Puram will LIVE Stream performance by Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT)
Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 12: Doordarshan Kendra Sri Vijaya Puram will LIVE Stream performance by“Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT)” on 13TH March 2025 from 1530 hrs to 1615 hrs from Marina Park,in its YouTube channel @ddksrivijayapuram.
Regular transmission of DDK Sri Vijaya Puram will be preponed to 3 pm tomorrow to show this LIVE telecast on our terrestrial network.
Tourist Guide Training Program Launched to Boost Employment in Andaman’s Tourism Sector
Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar. 12: The Tourism Department as an initiative to promote, foster professionalism, ensuring safety, and opening up avenues for both employment and self-employment in the vibrant tourism industry is organizing a 12 days Tourist Guide Training Program in the Training Hall of Directorate of Disaster Management, Sri Vijaya Puram from 12/03/2025 to 24/03/2025 including weekends.
The training is being conducted in association with Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM), Bhubaneswar. This program aims to equip the local unemployed youth with the necessary communication skills, historical and cultural knowledge, customer service, safety protocols, and language proficiency to excel in the tourism industry. This will help in bridging the gap of well-trained tourist guides for the travellers visiting the Islands.
The Resource Persons from IITTM, Dr. Swajan gave an overview of the training program and its objectives. He highlighted on the behavioural component of the training and encouraged the participants to be responsible stakeholders of Andaman tourism. He also urged them to know all about the Isles for value addition to their work in tourism sector.
Dr. Subramanian from IITTM Bhubaneswar urged the participants to draw maximum benefit of the training program and upgrade their skills. 100 local aspirants from different Islands are participating in the training program.
Anganwadi Workers Trained on Poshan Tracker App for Efficient Nutrition Monitoring
Sri Vijaya Puram , Mar. 12: The ICDS Urban Project under the Directorate of Social Welfare has conducted a comprehensive training program with the help of Shri P Mahesh Kumar, State Coordinator, Poshan Tracker under National e-Governance Division (NeGD) on Poshan Tracker App for Anganwadi Workers. The training sessions were held in multiple groups from March 4 to 11, 2025 with an impressive participation of 207 Anganwadi Workers.
The training aimed to empower Anganwadi Workers with the necessary skills to effectively use the Poshan Tracker App for real-time monitoring of nutrition services, beneficiary data management, and digital record-keeping. The sessions featured hands-on demonstrations to familiarize participants with the app’s functionalities; practical exercises to ensure smooth implementation and problem-solving and interactive discussions to address challenges and improve service delivery.
The completion of this training marks a significant step toward strengthening nutrition services and improving the efficiency of beneficiary data management through digital tools.