ANDAMAN SHEEKHA

The True Mirror of A & N Islands

Archives for August 17, 2023

Historic Achievement: Great Andamanese population in Strait Island Now Enjoy 24/7 Electricity Supply

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John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Aug 17: In a monumental accomplishment within the Power Sector, the Great Andamanese, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) residing in the ‘Strait Islands’, have successfully attained round-the-clock electricity supply. This achievement marks a significant stride towards progress and development for this marginalized community.
Rani Surmae, the Chief of the Great Andamanese people, expressed profound gratitude to the Lt. Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as well as the Chief Secretary of the A & N Administration and the electricity department. With heartfelt appreciation, she stated, “We are overjoyed to finally experience the luxury of 24/7 electricity in our islands. This pivotal development empowers our children to engage in quality education and pave the way for a brighter future.”
Prior to this historic accomplishment, the tribal people residing on Strait Island had appealed to the Andaman administration and the Chief Secretary for immediate intervention. Their plea focused on securing a continuous and uninterrupted 24/7 electricity supply to the homes of all Great Andamanese tribal members.
The dedicated efforts of the Electricity Department came to fruition a few months ago when a new DG Set (Diesel Generator Set) was installed on the Strait Islands. Following an operational trial period that commenced last week, the DG Set finally started full time operation recently.
Formerly, electricity supply to the islands had been facilitated through a solar power plant before being rendered non-operational due to a fire incident post-tsunami. In response, two DG Sets were installed to meet the power requirements of the community. However, challenges arose due to staff shortages, with only one permanent electricity department staff and four contractual staff, including a non-tribal member, being allocated to the Strait Islands. The ageing DG Sets posed further constraints, leading to power supply availability exclusively during evening and night hours, from 05:00 PM to 05:00 AM.

Member of Parliament calls on DGP, advocates for Police Welfare and Improved Working Conditions

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Port Blair, Aug 17: Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, the Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands today held a meeting with the Director General of Police, A & N Islands, delving into two major issues related to the well-being of the police force in these Islands.

In the first issue discussed today, the Member of Parliament highlighted the Police Jawans’ Posting Conditions at Border Look Out Posts (BLoPs) and voiced his concerns regarding the challenging working conditions faced by the police jawans stationed at the Border Look Out Posts (BLoPs) scattered across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He applauded the exceptional dedication and commitment exhibited by these brave men, who execute their duties diligently even under the harshest of circumstances.

He mentioned that BLoPs such as Narcondum, Tillong Chang, Interview Island, East Island, Strait Island, Luis-in-Let-Bay, and Burmanallah are known for their inhospitable weather conditions and treacherous terrains. Despite these challenges, the police personnel stationed at these remote posts diligently carry out their duties, safeguarding the interests of the nation and its citizens.

He pointed out the recent extension of the posting durations to 60 to 90 days, as per Order No. 7666 dated 08 December 2022 and requested a reevaluation of the recent order, urging a return to the previous 30 to 45-day posting duration. He extended his heartfelt appreciation to the police personnel for their exceptional dedication and commitment to serving the region.

In the second issue the Member of Parliament brought up the issue of stagnation within the ranks of constables and head constables in the Andaman and Nicobar police force.

Drawing inspiration from a successful model implemented by the Delhi police, Mr. Sharma suggested adopting the Special Grade Designation system to provide incentives and motivation to constables and head constables without incurring financial implications.

“The Delhi police’s initiative, endorsed by the Director-General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), involves the grant of Special Grade Designation to constables and head constables who have completed certain qualifying years of service. This designation, offered without a corresponding financial upgradation, serves to motivate the police personnel and boost their morale,” he mentioned.

The Member of Parliament proposed a similar system for the Andaman and Nicobar police force, considering the benefits reaped by the Delhi police in terms of motivation and morale. By granting Special Grade Designation to constables and head constables, the force could address the issue of stagnation within these ranks and ensure timely promotions for deserving officers.

He urged the Director General of Police to personally address this matter, underscoring the positive impact it could have on the hardworking police jawans.

Zilla Parishad Member Urges Administration to set fixed Prices for Quarry Products

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Port Blair, Aug 17: In a move to address the growing concerns surrounding the pricing of quarry products in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mr. P A Sharfuddin, Zilla Parishad member from the Mithakhari Constituency, has penned a letter to the Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration. The letter, dated 17th August 2023, highlights the urgent need for the establishment of fixed selling prices for quarry products in the region.
The impetus for this appeal arises from an e-Auction Notice (F. No. 01/ACS/Quarry/SA/TS-II/2023-24/1013) issued on 14th July 2023 by the Assistant Commissioner (SA) of the A&N Islands. While this notice specifies a Minimum Reserve price for Explosive Quarry blocks, it fails to address the absence of a Maximum Selling price for various quarry and crusher products.
Quarry products are crucial elements for a plethora of industries, including construction, infrastructure development, and manufacturing. The pricing of these products significantly affects both the public and government agencies who procure them. The current scenario allows for Quarry and Crusher Owners to independently determine the costs of various products, resulting in disparate pricing for items such as 40 mm, 20 mm, 12.5 mm aggregates, and Crusher Dust.
This lack of a standardized pricing framework has led to inflated costs and disparities in pricing, which are negatively impacting both consumers and government projects. The absence of regulation and transparency in this sector has placed financial burdens on the general public and hindered the efficiency of essential projects.
Recognizing the potential for positive change, Mr. Sharfuddin’s letter earnestly appeals for the government’s intervention in the establishment of a pricing framework. Such a framework would curb arbitrary pricing decisions, stabilize the market, and stimulate growth across industries that rely on quarry products.
The Zilla Parishad member suggested that the government’s involvement in setting fixed prices requires a meticulous evaluation of factors such as production costs and market dynamics. However, the potential benefits, including a predictable market environment and reduced consumer cost pressures, make this effort imperative.
In addition to advocating for fixed prices, Mr. Sharfuddin also addressed the issue of the lease duration for quarries. Referring to Point No. 20 of the aforementioned Notice, which outlines a one-year lease period, Mr. Sharfuddin highlights the challenges arising from this short-term arrangement. He suggests that the lease duration be extended to a minimum of three years to promote price stability, predictability, and reduced administrative burdens. This extension would benefit both the public and stakeholders reliant on these products for various purposes, especially construction.

Member of Parliament Launches “Freedom Fighters of India – Part II” eBook in front of Cellular Jail

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Port Blair, Aug 17: A momentous occasion was marked with the launch of the eBook by the Member of Parliament Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma on 16th August, 2023 at 4pm in front of the Cellular Jail. This eBook titled “Freedom Fighters of India Part II,” is a compilation of articles previously published in the esteemed eMagazinePreSense over a period of time.
The launch ceremony, held at the iconic Andaman Cellular Jail, witnessed a distinguished gathering of dignitaries, family members of freedom fighters, senior citizens, and notable personalities who came together to pay homage to the sacrifices made by our nation’s heroes.
The launch ceremony, hosted through Zoom, attracted an audience of distinguished and prominent people from various parts of India and was led by Mr. Srinivasan, Managing Director, Prime Point PreSense. Mr. Srinivasan who is popularly known as Prime Point Srinivasan compiled this eBook as a tribute to all the freedom fighters and dedicated a special section in this eBook talking about contributions & role of Andaman & Nicobar islands in the Capital Indian Freedom Movement.
Smti. Priyadarshni Rahul, Editor of PreSense addressed the gathering with her warm greetings and kind words for the people of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and set an eloquent tone for the event.
Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma paid a heartfelt tribute to all the freedom fighters who endured immense hardships within these very walls for the cause of our nation’s independence. In his address speech Mr. Sharma also remembered the gruesome past and lives laid down by the brave and selfless freedom fighters of our islands in this long freedom struggle. While addressing the crowd Mr. Sharma also added that “as we have gathered today at this historical place we must all recognize the potential of our islands for our Nation’s future”. He said “our islands aren’t just a historic relic but a region with immense potential for growth, development and prosperity. With strategic importance for our defense, abundant natural resources and a rich cultural heritage, our islands offer a canvas on which we can paint a future that reflects the ideals of our freedom fighters held dear.”
The keynote speaker Dr KVS Gopalakrishnan IPS (retd) who is also Former Special Director General of Police, Intelligence Bureau, Government of India shed light on the profound contributions of the freedom fighters in the history of our Nation’s freedom struggle.
Mr. Gauri Shankar Pande, Mr. Swaran Singh and Smti Shanta Laxman also addressed the huge gathering and spoke about the tales of freedom struggles in the islands.
Mr. Ramesh Sundaram, Editor in Chief, PreSense and Mr. Tamil Selvam expressed their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who was gathered to honor the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes.

 

Andaman Police Marine Force team Rescues Schoolboy from Drowning

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Port Blair, Aug 17: On 15/08/2023, Boats of Police Marine Force (Island Marines) were deployed to perform duties for safety and security of islands from illegal intrusion. At around 1130 hrs. While patrolling by FRP boat ANP, Prithivi in between Netaji Subash Chandra Bos Islands (Ross Islands) to Aberdeen Jetty the staff saw a boy drowning in sea. On sighting the boy in distress, ANP Prithivi (FRP) rushed towards the spot. PC/1470 Saw Paul (PMF) immediately jumped into the sea and successfully saved the life of a school going child studying in Govt. Sr. Secondary School Mohanpura.
The boat staff of PMF immediately informed the Police Control Room and the boy was taken to G.B. Pant Hospital without delay and admitted him in hospital for further examination by the doctors, presently the boy is out of danger.
Due to a prompt and immediate rescue operation launched by staff of PMF (Island Marines) they successfully saved the life of a boy. A&N Police Marine Force reaching out to rescue under any condition.
The general public is requested to pass and share any credible information pertaining to any crime, distress situation to Marine Police Control Room 1093, Police Control Room 100/112 or to their nearest Police Station, also advised not to enter the sea without safety.

Successful Interception of Fishing Trawler near Goal Pahad Region by Joint Police-Fisheries Operation by ANP

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Port Blair, Aug 17: In a commendable display of vigilance and collaboration, a joint operation led by SHO PS Rangat, Inspector RK Mazumder, and Fisheries department staff, effectively intercepted an alleged fishing trawler near the Goal Pahad region, which was found operating well within the restricted zone of 5 nautical miles from the shore.
Acting on credible information received on August 16, 2023, the proactive team was swiftly assembled, consisting of dedicated personnel from both the Police Marine Force and the Fisheries department. The team comprised PCs Augustin, Zainuddin, Sital Das, Yashwant and Ct Pavan Kumar along with Fisheries department representative Mr. Ramaiha set sail from Nimbutala Jetty in a Police Marine Force FIB boat to intercept the suspected fishing trawler.
Upon reaching the vicinity, the fishing trawler bearing the identification number IND-AN-SA-MM-228, named SRI IRUKKANKUDI MARIYAMMAN, was successfully intercepted. The vessel, with one Master and six crew members aboard, was anchored near the Long Island Shore. A GPS measurement of the vessel’s location indicated it to be situated merely 1.2 Nautical Miles from the Long Island shore and 3 nautical miles from Nimbutala, which significantly exceeded the permissible limit.
Following due procedure, the Fisheries department officials onboard the trawler carried out the necessary formalities. Subsequently, the vessel was escorted to the shore of Nimbutala Jetty for further actions in accordance with the law.
The entire operation was conducted with the utmost precision and professionalism, under the vigilant oversight of Mr. Vishesh Dhatterwal, SDPO Rangat, and under the comprehensive direction of Mrs. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, SP N & MA.
The general public and fishermen who are venturing in sea are requested to pass and share any credible information pertaining to sighting of foreign boats/nationals to their nearest Police Station or over phone No.100, 112 & 03192-273344. Their identity will be kept secret and they will be suitably rewarded for their brave act.

 

TSG Bhasker attends the closing ceremony of All-India FIDE Rated Open Chess Tournament 2023

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Port Blair, Aug 17: The closing ceremony of the ‘AICF Chess For Everyone’ All-India FIDE Rated Open Chess Tournament 2023 was held successfully at TSG Grand Hotel, Port Blair on 15th August, 2023.

Mr. Devesh Chandra Srivastava, IPS, DGP, A&N Police graced the occasion as the Chief Guest while Mr. TSG Bhasker, Patron, Andaman & Nicobar Chess Association was the Special Invitee. Many other dignitaries were present at the function.

Mr. Pradeep Tiwari of Defence Accounts Sports Control Board (DASCB) has clinched the winning trophy and cash prize while Ms. R. Kashthuri Bhai from A & N Islands secured fourth position. The top twenty players were awarded with trophies, certificates and cash prizes worth Rs. 1,25,000/-

The tournament was a successful event, and the closing ceremony promised to be a fitting finale.

Navodhaya Foundation Organizes Azadi Ka Swadisth Utsav to Celebrate Independence Day and Promote Women Empowerment

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Port Blair, Aug 17: Navodhaya Foundation, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to women empowerment, successfully organized the #AzadiKaSwadisthUtsav event on 16th August 2023 at the prestigious Andaman Tamizhar Sangam Hall, Phoenix Bay. The event aimed to commemorate India’s Independence Day while promoting women empowerment through various activities and recognitions.
The event commenced with a warm welcome to the esteemed Chief Guest, Mrs. Veditha Reddy, District Commissioner of South Andaman, and the Guest of Honor, Mr. L Moorthy, President of Andaman Tamizhar Sangam, with bouquets. Their presence added prestige and encouragement to the event.
The highlight of the event was a food feast cum competition that showcased the culinary skills of talented individuals. The competition featured two categories. In the first category, 11 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) participated, demonstrating their expertise in preparing delicious Indian desserts. The second category involved six female sanitary workers from the Port Blair Municipal Council, who showcased their talent and creativity in preparing delectable dishes.
The esteemed judges for the competition were Chef Ashwar Pal Singh and Chef Francis Gill, who brought their expertise and experience to declare the winners. The results were as follows:
SHGs Category:
1. First Prize: Dilpreeth SHG – Cash prize of ₹ 7,000/-
2. Second Prize: Subash Chandra Bose SHG – Cash prize of ₹ 5,000/- 3. Third Prize: Maruti SHG – Cash prize of ₹ 3,000/-
Female Sanitary Workers Category:
1. First Prize: Mrs. Durga Amma – Cash prize of ₹ 5,000/-
2. Second Prize: Mrs. Sony Krishna – Cash prize of ₹ 3,000/-
In addition to the competition, Navodhaya Foundation recognized and facilitated several renowned women from the society for their exceptional achievements and significant contributions towards the betterment of society and women empowerment. The felicitation ceremony honored the following individuals:
1. Ms. R. Kasthuri Bai
2. Mrs. Ratna Kannan
3. Dr. S. K Jagpal
4. Mrs. Komal Anand
5. Dr. Ritika Gupta
6. Mrs. N. Ratha
7. Mrs. S. Promila Devi
8. Mrs. Nato Okruashvili
9. Ms. Maneesha Nath
10.Mrs. Rajni Ahuja
11. Dr. Pratiksha Malhotra
12.Mrs. Aurshia Tahir
13.Mrs. Pallabi Das
14.Ms. Pooja Biswas
15.Ms. Priyanka Das
16.Mrs. Farah Parveen
Their exemplary achievements and dedication to the society have been instrumental in inspiring and empowering women.
During her address, Chief Guest Mrs. Veditha Reddy delivered an encouraging and motivational speech, highlighting the importance of organizing such an event with a strong focus on women empowerment. She commended Navodhaya Foundation for their dedicated efforts in promoting gender equality and empowering women in society.
Following the felicitation ceremony, the event continued with a patriotic musical night, showcasing the talents of local performers. The audience was enthralled by the mesmerizing performances that filled the air with a sense of patriotism and national pride.
In conclusion, the event was a grand success, and Navodhaya Foundation extends its sincere gratitude to all the supporters, sponsors, media houses, and individuals involved in making the #AzadiKaSwadisthUtsav a memorable celebration. The foundation remains committed to empowering women and creating a positive impact in society.

IMD forecast Thunderstorm and lightning with gusty wind

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Port Blair, Aug 17: Thunderstorm and lightning with gusty wind (speed 30-40 kmptis likely to occur at one or two places over Andaman & Nicobar Islands on Aug. 18.
For further enquiries/ information, one may contact helpline of State Emergency Operation Centre at Helpline1070 & District Emergency Operation Centre at Helpline No. 1077.For any emergency/assistance at sea, call Coast Guard SAR Agency at Toll Free number 1554.

Independence Day celebrations by AATO

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Port Blair, Aug 17: Andaman Association of Tour Operators in association with Andaman Adventure Sports Association Carbyns Cove celebrated Independence Day at Carbyns Cove Beach in a befitting manner. Mr. M.Vinod, President, AATO hoisted the National Flag and the programme was attended by members of both the association, tourists. Mr. Vinod has thanked all those who made their contribution to make the programme success. The programme concluded with Distribution of Sweets.