Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr. 4: The general public and consumers of Electricity Department have been informed that the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) Rules mandates that all commercial buildings with a connected load of 50 kW or above or a contract demand of 60 kVA or above must comply with the prescribed energy efficiency standards. This includes all newly constructed buildings and those undergoing additions or alterations that increase their energy demands.
The building owners are responsible for ensuring that energy conservation measures are incorporated into their building designs and are inspected for compliance. Upon completion an occupancy permit must be obtained from the concerned authority.
Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council (SVPMC) as the jurisdictional authority for urban areas has incorporated these ECBC provisions into its Bye Laws as notified in the Gazette as A&N Islands Energy Conservation Building Code Rule 2019 on 11.02.2021. Henceforth, for all such commercial buildings that fall within the purview of these rules, submission of necessary approval or clearance from the SVPMC is imperative for the owner (s) to obtain electric connection from Electricity Department for a connected load of 50 kW or above or a contract demand of 60 kVA or above.
It is needless to say that once the rules have been notified in A&N Gazette, it has to be implemented throughout A&N Islands without prejudice to any geographical or authority jurisdiction.

 

Vikramaditya
Port Blair, April 02: In a development that raises major concerns about the enforcement of protective regulations, U.S. national Mr. Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov was arrested for illegally entering the restricted North Sentinel Island, home to the isolated Sentinelese tribe. This incident echoes the 2018 case of John Allen Chau, another American who was killed by the tribe after trespassing on their territory.
As per sources, Mr. Polyakov arrived in Port Blair on March 26 and, by the early hours of March 29, launched an inflatable boat from Kurma Dera beach, equipped with a locally assembled outboard motor. He reached the northeastern shore of North Sentinel Island by 10 a.m., carrying offerings of a coconut and a can of cola intended for the Sentinelese people. After attempting to make contact by blowing a whistle and observing the area with binoculars without spotting any inhabitants, he briefly set foot on the island, left the offerings, collected sand samples, and recorded video footage before departing.
This brazen intrusion raises critical questions about the efficacy of current security measures. How was Mr. Polyakov able to transport and assemble a boat and motor without arousing suspicion? What lapses allowed him to approach and land on the heavily protected island undetected? These concerns are especially pertinent given that this is not Mr. Polyakov’s first attempt; previous visits in October and January involved reconnaissance and unauthorized filming of indigenous tribes, actions that had already resulted in an FIR against him.
Mr. Polyakov’s claim of seeking adventure by visiting the island seems dubious, especially considering the known dangers and strict prohibitions. When he knew that Sentinelese Tribes kill all intruders, why he had already purchased a returned ticket from Andaman. The Sentinelese have historically resisted contact with outsiders, and the area is protected under Indian law to preserve their way of life and prevent the introduction of diseases. The ease with which Mr. Polyakov executed his plan underscores potential vulnerabilities in monitoring and enforcement protocols.
It calls for a thorough review of current security measures and stricter enforcement to prevent future breaches that could endanger lives and violate the rights of protected tribes.

Rabindranath Biswas
Diglipur, March 30: A local journalist, Mr. Sahadev Dey, who works as a reporter from Diglipur, has been missing since 8 PM 29 March 2025. Despite repeated efforts by colleagues and law enforcement, there has been no trace of him.
According to sources, Mr. Sahadev was seen yesterday around 1 PM in Rangat with an unidentified individual before traveling back to Diglipur. CCTV footage from Diglipur Fish Market at around confirms that he arrived there around 8 PM, got off a vehicle, waited for a while, and then proceeded on foot. However, after this point, his whereabouts remain unknown.
His phone, which was last active at 8 PM, has been switched off since then, making it difficult to track his location. Concerned by his sudden disappearance, his colleagues have lodged a missing person complaint with the police, who have now launched an investigation.
Talking to Andaman Sheekha daily, police sources said that till late evening, there were no significant clues in the case. However, they assured that their team is putting in their best efforts to locate Mr. Sahadev. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding areas and tracking possible leads to determine his last known movements.
Local media outlets and residents are being urged to share any relevant information that could help locate Mr. Sahadev.

 

Vikramaditya
Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 28: It is both distressing and alarming that the recent raid conducted by the Food Safety Department at Junglighat Fish Market has confirmed what the media and concerned citizens have been highlighting for years — formalin-laced fish is indeed making its way to the dining tables of the people of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Despite repeated warnings, news reports, and citizen voices, the administration had once issued a rejoinder denying the use of formalin in local fish markets. Yet, this very inspection has proven otherwise. The media, acting in the interest of public health, stands vindicated now.
The confirmation of formalin presence in 4 out of 50 samples is not just a statistical fact, it is a red flag. Formalin is a cancer-causing chemical primarily used as a preservative in laboratories, not on food plates. It is believed that its illegal use to prolong the freshness of fish is an unforgivable crime against public health. Regular consumption of formalin-laden fish can lead to cancer, kidney failure, respiratory issues, and several long-term health complications.
Even if only few fish seller might be using formalin, the people of these islands, who are dependent on fish as a staple part of their diet, are unknowingly being exposed to slow poisoning.
In Andaman fish forms the backbone of the diet for thousands of families and is a major source of protein for locals. In a fragile ecosystem like ours, where supply chains are often dependent on imports and limited cold-chain facilities, the temptation for some fish sellers to resort to such shortcuts has now been exposed. But this cannot be treated as a mere violation — it is an assault on the health of every islander.
What makes the situation worse is the fact that this is not the first time the media raised the alarm. Numerous reports over the years have pointed out the suspicious quality and unnatural appearance of fish available in the markets.
It is high time for the administration to move beyond warnings and awareness programs. This issue needs strict legal enforcement. Those few fish sellers who have been found guilty must face the full force of the Food Safety and Standards Act, and every effort must be made to trace the supply chain of these formalin-laced fish.
Moreover, a complete ban or strict regulation on the import and distribution of formalin in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands must be immediately enforced. Without controlling the entry of this chemical, its illegal usage will only continue underground. Local fish markets must also be routinely and randomly tested, with results made public to rebuild people’s trust.
The people of these islands deserve safe food, not chemical-laden commodities. The administration, now that the truth is out, must act decisively. Anything less will be a betrayal of the health and safety of every islander.

Trinath & Vikramaditya
Mayabunder, Mar. 27: The Deputy Commissioner of North and Middle Andaman, Mrs. Nandini Maharaj, highlighted significant steps being taken to address two critical issues faced by the district — water scarcity and shortage of specialist doctors.
Talking to Andaman Sheekha Daily, the Deputy Commissioner acknowledged that water scarcity has been a persistent issue, particularly in the Mayabunder region. “The water problem in North and Middle Andaman is concentrated mostly in the Mayabunder area,” she said. To address this, the administration conducted a village-wise and source-wise study to identify the most affected areas and the status of existing water sources.
Mrs. Maharaj shared that the administration has already prepared estimates and sanctioned projects for creating new water sources and connecting them via pipelines. “After many years of effort, we have successfully tapped an additional water source at Birsa Nallah, Mayabunder. This has been a major achievement for both the PWD and the District Administration,” she said.
The administration, on an immediate basis, acted swiftly by deploying the Superintendent Engineer for an extensive field visit, who identified the Birsa Nallah as a feasible water source. Within a week, water from Birsa Nallah was connected through pipelines and supplemented the existing water supply from Korag Nallah. “This immediate intervention has allowed us to balance water distribution more equitably across the supply chain, and we are fully prepared for the upcoming dry months of April and May,” she assured.
In addition to short-term measures, the district has also prepared mid-term and long-term plans to improve water augmentation and management for the next 30 years, covering Mayabunder, Diglipur, and Rangat. These plans have already been approved at the village and district levels and have been forwarded to the state committee under the Jal Jeevan Mission. “Water management is a top priority for the district,” Mrs. Maharaj stressed.
On the health front, the Deputy Commissioner expressed satisfaction over the recent posting of seven specialist doctors in North and Middle Andaman, which had been a long-standing demand of the people. “The entire district is grateful to the Health Secretariat for fulfilling this critical requirement,” she said.
Mrs. Maharaj also noted that severe acute malnutrition has been successfully eliminated from Rangat subdivision and is on the verge of being eradicated in Mayabunder and Diglipur as well. She credited the achievement to the leadership of previous Deputy Commissioners and Chief Secretaries who implemented the ‘Malnutrition-Free India’ initiative.
Further, the district has plans to advertise 28 vacant health posts under the District Health Society soon. “While we understand that improving healthcare will take time, especially with specialist doctors and equipment coming gradually, we have already started focusing on preventive healthcare,” she added, citing recent initiatives like the district’s participation in World Tuberculosis Day and the TB-Free India campaign.

Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Hope Town, Mar 26: The residents of Hope Town have been grappling with severe difficulties since the collapse of the local jetty nearly two years ago. The lack of a permanent jetty has significantly affected the daily lives of the people, especially the fishermen and other working-class residents who depend on it for transportation and livelihood. Although a temporary jetty has been put in place, the community is now demanding immediate action for the construction of a permanent one.
Residents have raised their concerns with the Andaman & Nicobar Administration multiple times through letters and meetings with officials, including the Lieutenant Governor, Chief Secretary, and Shipping Department. However, despite repeated assurances, no concrete steps have been taken towards the jetty’s reconstruction, said Ms. Rashida Bibi, Pradhan of Hope Town Panchayat.
“People are suffering daily. Nearly 80% of the population here depends on the sea for their livelihood, and the lack of a jetty has forced them to spend extra money on alternative transportation. Fishermen, students, and daily wage earners are the worst affected,” she added.
Due to the absence of the jetty, people are forced to travel several extra kilometers, increasing their travel costs and inconvenience, said Mr. B. Laxmi Narayan, (Samiti Member)Hope Town.
The collapse of the jetty has resulted in serious hardships for the locals. Without it, residents must use expensive auto-rickshaws to reach other jetties for ferry services, adding to their financial burden. Additionally, the fishing community, which heavily relies on the jetty, has been struggling to transport their catch efficiently. “The situation is dire, and our livelihoods are at stake. The administration must act immediately,” he added.
Students and office-goers are also facing significant difficulties, as they have to travel long distances to reach ferry services. If no action is taken soon, the community may be forced to stage protests and demonstrations, said Mr. M K Hussain, Pradhan, Gram Panchayat, Stewart Gunj.
Similarly Padhan of Wimberlygunj, Mr. Venkat Ram Babu and Mr. P Abdul Basheer, Pradhan of Kanyapuram Panchayat have also highlighted similar problems being faced by public.
The PRI members have demanded that the administration take swift action by conducting a survey and approving the construction of a new jetty. They stressed that a new jetty is not just a demand but a necessity for the community’s survival and economic stability.

Vikramaditya
Rangat, March 24, 2025: A large number of Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) representatives of North and Middle Andaman have officially formed their own association to address community issues more effectively. The decision was made in a meeting held today at Pokadera, Middle Andaman.

During the meeting, the leadership structure of the newly formed PRI Association was announced. Mr. Dipankar Mistry was appointed as the President, Mr. Debobrata Das as the Secretary, and Mrs. K Chithravelu as the Treasurer. The formation of this association marks a significant step towards organized advocacy for the PRIs in North and Middle Andaman.

Talking to Andaman Sheekha today Mr. Dipankar Mistry said that previously, PRI members in North and Middle Andaman were individually raising their concerns without any structured representation. This lack of unity often led to challenges in addressing local issues effectively. In recent protests, there was also confusion regarding decision-making, which highlighted the need for a formal association.

With the formation of this association, all future matters concerning PRI representatives will be addressed collectively under its banner.
A Unified Voice for PRI Representatives
Mr. Mistry said that at the meeting, the leaders emphasized that the association will serve as a unified platform to voice the grievances and demands of PRI members effectively. The Secretary, Mr. Debobrata Das highlighted the importance of structured representation, similar to existing organizations in other sectors, such as shipping and marine associations.

He also stated that the association will work closely with the Rural Development Department and relevant authorities to ensure that the voices of the people reach the appropriate decision-making bodies. The association aims to address key issues affecting North and Middle Andaman residents, including administrative challenges, infrastructure concerns, and policy advocacy.

Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 23: Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, met with the Union Finance Minister Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman to discuss the vital issue of budget allocation for the Union Territory of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. During the meeting, the MP highlighted the financial constraints faced by the UT and urged the Finance Minister to enhance the budget for capital expenditure through a special grant, considering the A&N Islands’s backwardness and geographical remoteness.
During the discussion, the MP brought to the Finance Minister’s notice the serious lapses in fund utilization by the UT Administration. Based on official data from the A&N Administration, approximately Rs. 600 crore has been surrendered over the past five years. Further, Rs. 163 crore earmarked for central schemes remains unutilized and a special financial assistance package of Rs. 279 crore intended for rural road construction has not been obtained and utilized effectively.
The MP also pointed out the misallocation of funds by the UT Administration, which has prioritized non-essential expenditures, including the beautification of LG Raj Niwas, officer residences, procurement of vehicles, installation of ACs and modern furniture, instead of investing in main public infrastructure projects.
Furthermore, the MP raised concerns over the budget proposals prepared by the UT Administration without prior consultation with elected representatives, including the lone MP. The proposals focus primarily on securing funds for recurring expenditures such as salaries and committed liabilities, leading to inadequate provisions for capital expenditure for infrastructure development. As a result, developmental activities, including funding for local bodies such as Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), the Municipal Council and essential infrastructure for roads, water and electricity, remain grossly underfunded.
Highlighting the adverse effects of this misallocation, the MP cited that only 36 km of rural roads have been constructed in the past five years due to inadequate fund allocation to the three-tier PRIs. The MP emphasized that such deficiencies hinder the overall development of the area and impact the quality of life of its residents.
In conclusion, the MP urged the Finance Minister to intervene and ensure the allocation of adequate funds for capital expenditure to the UT of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, from the 2025-26 financial year onwards. A well-structured financial package would help bridge the developmental gap, strengthen infrastructure and uplift the socio-economic conditions of the people in this strategically significant yet underdeveloped region.
Responding to the issue raised, the Finance Minister has assured that the matter will be looked into for consideration.