Port Blair, May 29: In a recent meeting, the Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma of Andaman and Nicobar Islands raised concerns about public safety in the vicinity of the girls’ school and JNRM parking area. Emphasizing the need for immediate attention, Mr. Sharma highlighted the potential dangers associated with people sitting near food stalls located in the areas.

He expressed his gratitude for the service provided by the food stalls, which have become popular spots for evening gatherings and a source of refreshments for both locals and tourists. Acknowledging their contribution to the overall ambiance and beauty of the area, he commended the commendable efforts of the stall owners.

However, the Member of Parliament observed that the current arrangement, including the provision of chairs for visitors to sit and enjoy their meals, exposes them to constant risks due to the proximity of the road and the fast-moving vehicles. He stressed that sitting in such close proximity to the road poses a significant threat, as accidents caused by overspeeding or even simple mistakes could result in serious injuries or worse.

To address this pressing issue and ensure the safety of individuals frequenting the food stalls, the Member of Parliament called for the installation of a solid fencing structure between the parking area and the road. Such a measure, he explained, would effectively create a barrier, mitigating the risks posed by fast-moving vehicles and enhancing the safety of the general public enjoying their snacks and meals.

On the Foundation Day of the State of Goa on 30.05.2023, I extend my warm greetings to the people of Goa residing in these Islands. Goa is reputed for its magnificent natural beauty, rich flora and fauna and vibrant culture that have attracted innumerable tourists from across the world.
It was on May 30, 34 years ago, that Goa transformed from a Union Territory to a State and became the 25th State of the Union of India. May 30th, is a result of the struggle by the Goans to protect their identity and therefore this day is of historic importance. The journey towards Statehood was long and arduous that began with the Opinion Poll in 1967, wherein it was decided to maintain Goa as a separate and distinct entity. On this happy occasion, let us remember with gratitude the leaders, intellectuals and the people of Goa who have contributed towards the State’s welfare.
On the occasion of the Statehood Day, I take the opportunity to extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to the people of Goa staying in these Islands and wish them happy Goa Foundation Day.
(Admiral D K Joshi)
PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.)
Lt Governor, A&N Islands
&
Vice Chairman, Islands Development Agency

Port Blair, May 29: The Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairy Shri. ParshottamRupala has said that fisheries sector is the backbone of the country. While launching the Sagar Parikrama 2023 phase-VI at Panighat fish landing centre in South Andaman. He said if you want to make our rural economy stronger then the fisheries sector is the best option for this purpose. He discussed many important issues regarding economic upliftment through various schemes such as Pradhan Mantri MatsyaSampadaYojna, also informed that one-third of country’s tuna fish reserves are in the seas surrounding. Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Islands encompass 28% of the country’s exclusive economic zones.
Hon’ble Shri ParshottamRupala, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying recognizes the critical role of fish farmers in meeting the growing demand, also recognizes the invaluable contributions of our fishermen and fish farmers who tirelessly work to provide us with a vital source of food and sustenance. He emphasized on sustainable fishing practices that not only increase productivity but also minimize environmental impacts. He informed that due to high demand of fishermen from all over the country to support them in improving their livelihood, Hon’ble Prime Minister established separate department of fisheries and since 1950 to 2014, the investment in fisheries sector was of around Rs 3,681 Cr, starting from 2014 government introduces the schemes such as PMMSY, FIDF and others with budget of approx. Rs. 32,000 Cr. of total investment has been made for the development of fisheries sector by understanding the ground realities.
The programme continued with virtual foundation stone laying ceremony of Fish Landing CenterVivekanandpur, Little Andaman, Hutbay for our fishermen and fisherwomen, enabling them to carry out their work more efficiently and effectively. He has also shared his opinion that carrying out the PMMSY scheme activities shall have a significant impact on the fisheries sector in India, aims to enhance the production and productivity of fish through the adoption of modern and scientific methods of fishing and aquaculture. This will not only boost the income of fishermen and fish farmers but also increase the availability of fish in the market, which will have a positive impact on food security and nutrition. Further, he highlighted that PMMSY scheme is expected to create employment opportunities in the fisheries sector, both in the production and processing of fish including contribution to the country’s economic growth and development. Further he requested the beneficiaries to come forward and use the benefits of KCC for fish farmers and for allied activities. He also requested volunteers to help in creating awareness of the schemes such as PMMSY, KCC so that the beneficiaries can take benefit of the same.
During the function the Minister also distributed KCC to some beneficiaries of PMMSY and distributed cheque to some fisher folk. On this occasion the Chief SecrataryKesav Chandra, Member of Parliament Kuldeep Rai Sharma and Commisioner-cum-Secretary Nandini Paliwal also spoke.

Port Blair, May 29: The National Students Union of India, State President Mr. M.A Sajid on Monday raised his strong objection against the establishment of Deemed University in Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister of India, Mr. Sajid said that the decision taken by the Central Government is inconsistent and illogical. The Colleges functioning in Andaman & Nicobar Islands affiliated to Pondicherry University will be forced to take affiliation with the Deemed University which will devalue the existing education system in A & N Islands.
Mr. Sajid stated that proposing Deemed University in A & N Islands would ultimately make higher Education Costly by unregulated power to hike fees. Moreover, fixed salaries of the employees and education cost would turn inaccessible for the students coming from economically-backward communities.
Mr. Sajid mentioned that “Pondicherry University has a strong focus on research and innovation. Its faculty members are actively involved in cutting-edge research in their respective fields, and the university provides ample opportunities for students as compared to the Deemed Universities.
“The Pondicherry University has a vibrant campus life with a range of extracurricular activities and student organizations. It also provides an opportunity to develop the interests and skills outside of the classroom and make meaningful connections with the peers and also offers a world-class education, a diverse and inclusive community, and a supportive environment for research and innovation”, he added.
He further said that the Establishment of Central University in A & N Islands will also positively contribute in developing the economy, politics and society of the Islands through the creation of Employment, Tourism, and Connectivity etc.
Mr. Sajid suggested that instead of establishing the Deemed University in Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the government should decide to establish a new Central University to ensure the increase in accessibility and quality of higher education to facilitate and to promote avenues of higher education for the students of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Hence, he requested the Prime Minister to consider Pondicherry University as the preferred choice for higher education other than the proposed deemed University at A & N Islands.

Port Blair, May 29: As a part of “Observance Of World Environment Day Celebration”, PHC Baratang was organized a NCD clinic at Anganwadi centre Southcreek , Baratang Island along with the Theme ” Promoting Healthy Lifestyle and NCD Awareness” in presence of Dr. Rahul Medical Officer I/C along with CHO, ANM, PHN, MHW, Ophthalmic Assistant, AWW, ASHA Worker etc. In this connection The World Environment Day, A Cleanliness drive at PHC BARATANG with awareness about climate change/food wastage and planting Mango Sapling led by Dr. Rahul MO along with All Staff of PHC Baratang was observed.

Port Blair, May 29: INTACH Andaman and Nicobar Chapter celebrated the World Day for Cultural Diversity at Chinmaya Mission with support from Venkat and Group. Several artists from the islands presented their talent on stage.
Mr. Sujit Bala presented a melodious rendition on flute. Kumari V. P. Bhuvanes Pavai performed a mesmerizing Shiva Tandav which gave goose bumps to all. Kumari. D. Ambili Kumari performed on a foot tapping Sambalpuri Tribal dance from Odisha. Little Miss Manisha performed an innocent little Ganesh Vandana on through Bharatnatyam. And the most mesmerizing item of the evening was an on stage art done by Mr. Dilleswar Rao.
The event was attended by INTACH patron and life member Mr. Rajesh Anand, Mrs. Komal Anand, renowned Social Worker, Swamiji, Chinmaya Mission, Convenor INTACH A and N Chapter, Samhita Veda Acharya and INTACH volunteers Ebi Mathew and Sibi Mathew , Vijay Bahadur of Dance Nritya Academy and Mr. Venkat who supported the event. The Master of Ceremony for the evening was Mr. Rizwan of MJ Music Academy.

Port Blair, May 29: The Secretary (RD/Panchayat), Ms. Veditha Reddy, IAS visited the North and Middle Andaman District and inspected various sites at Mayabunder and Diglipur Block along with the Deputy Commissioner, N&M Andaman and his team.
On her visit to Diglipur Block on 26th May, 2023 a meeting was conducted with PRI members to discuss various issues concerning the implementation of the programmes and activities of the department. During the meeting, the PRIs raised various issues regarding the functioning of the institutions. Followed by the meeting, field inspections were carried to various sites of Amrit Sarovar, major water supply infrastructure at R.K Gram and Solid Waste Management Cluster at Madhupur.
She also visited Mayabunder Block on 27th May, 2023 and conducted a round of meetings with PRIs and officials. The meeting was also attended by the Deputy Commissioner, N&M Andaman, Assistant Commissioner (HQ) and Block Development Officer. Detailed discussions were carried on the issues raised by the Panchayats. During the review meeting, the Block team made a detailed presentation on the ongoing activities, regarding the progress of various schemes in the area. She also inspected various sites of Amrit Sarovar, major water supply infrastructure at Devpur & Tugapur, PMAY house visit at Mayabunder. She also inspected roads under construction, Soak Pits at Pokadera, Solid Waste Management Cluster at Karmatang under Gram Panchayat Rampur.
The Secretary (RD/Panchayat) desired that ongoing works may be pursued and closely monitored for early completion. She directed the Block and GP level officials to make frequent field visits and resolve issues of the public. She also assured to look into the various issues as raised by the PRIs.