*::: Andaman Chronicle Updates :::* _*Please do share the updates with all you know…*_ *Join us on facebook today:* https://www.facebook.com/groups/andamanchronicle/ *Follow us on Twitter: @AndamanNews* *Do visit www.andamanchronicle.net for more on Andamans…* *Updates for* 10.02.2025 *EDITOR: DENIS GILES* --------------------------- *MP Urges Legal Framework for Local Certificate in Andaman & Nicobar Islands* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 9:* The Member of Parliament, Andaman & Nicobar Islands has called upon the Government of India to establish a legal framework supporting the executive direction on the issuance of local certificates in the Union Territory. This appeal aims to safeguard the rights of islanders in employment and education, ensuring a fair and equitable system that prioritizes local candidates. He stated in his letter that the Ministry of Home Affairs had earlier, through its letter No.U-14011/10 (Section 11)/79 A&N dated 14th February 1984, prescribed norms for issuing local certificates in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. These certificates were mandatory for employment within the Administration and for higher education. However, legal challenges led to the Supreme Court ruling in UOI & Ors vs. Sanjay Pant, where the Court dismissed the appeal due to the lack of a formal notification supporting the requirement under Article 16(4) of the Constitution. As a consequence of the ruling, the local certificate ceased to be a mandatory requirement for employment, adversely affecting the local population, which already faces substantial challenges due to the territory’s remoteness and limited opportunities. The issue of local preference in government jobs has been a longstanding demand and was also highlighted in the party’s manifesto. In light of the Supreme Court’s observations, the MP has emphasized the urgent need for the government to promulgate necessary notifications under Article 16(4) of the Constitution. This will provide legal backing to the existing executive decisions regarding local employment preference and ensure their enforceability. A similar approach was recently taken in Ladakh with the enactment of domicile laws, further strengthening the case for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Furthermore, the MP has pointed out that the Supreme Court, in its judgment dated 7th May 2002, directed the issuance of Islanders Identity Cards. These identity cards are currently issued based solely on an executive decision, further underscoring the need for a formal legal framework to support such measures. Therefore, the MP has urged the Ministry of Home Affairs to take immediate action on this long-pending issue and issue the necessary directions to restore the legal validity of local certificates for employment and education. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33606-mp-urges-legal-framework-for-local-certificate-in-andaman-nicobar-islands ================ *Historic Moment for Andaman & Nicobar Islands in Martial Arts (Pencak Silat)* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 9:* For the first time in history, the Pencak Silat team from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands participated in the prestigious South Zone Khelo India Women's League 2025, held at Kongunadu College, Tamil Nadu from 5th Feb to 7th Feb 2025. The team, comprising 17 talented girls, delivered an extraordinary performance, securing a total of 14 medals: 6 golds, 4 silvers, and 4 bronzes. This impressive medal tally is no small feat, considering the high level of competition in the Khelo India Women's League, where even earning a bronze medal is a significant achievement. Their dedication and hard work not only brought pride to the Islands but also added to the glory of India. Moreover, some of our Pencak Silat athletes have earned the honour of competing at the national level in the Khelo India Women's League 2025. This incredible achievement was made possible under the guidance of Shihan MS Murugan (Ex. Sub Inspector A&N Police IRBn), President of PASAANI & Founder of the Global Academy of Modern Fitness, and the young and most successful person in the martial field Er. Logarjun M., National Coach and National Referee. The team, accompanied by a few officials, departed for Tamil Nadu on February 5, 2025, and returned back to Port Blair on February 8, 2025. The management team included Shri T. Anil Kumar (General Secretary of PASAANI) with 2 officials Shri V. Rajesh Kumar and Mrs. Chandralekha Biswas. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33605-historic-moment-for-andaman-nicobar-islands-in-martial-arts-pencak-silat ================ *Prestigious XXVI Vice President of India Cup Soccer Championship 2024-25 Gets Underway at BJR Stadium* *Car Nicobar, Feb. 9:* The inaugural ceremony of the Prestigious XXVI Vice President of India Cup Soccer Championship 2024-25 was held at BJR Stadium, Tamaloo, Car Nicobar today. Shri Amit Kale, IAS, Deputy Commissioner (N)/Chairman (Organizing Committee) graced the occasion as the chief guest and declared the Championship Open. Shri Lionald Nicomede, Chairman, Tribal Council was the guest of honor, whereas Rt. Rev Thomas Nathan, Bishop of A & N Islands, Diocease blessed the participants & the tournament. The tournament which began today will go on till Feb.17, 2025. Altogether 12 teams from A& N Islands viz. Diglipur, Mayabunder, Rangat, Wimberlygunj, Sri Vijaya Puram, Little Andaman, Car Nicobar, Katchal, Chowra, Nancowry, Campbell Bay & A&N Command are participating in the tournament. To mark the commencement of the tournament, Shri Amit Kale, Deputy Commissioner (Nicobar)/Chairman (Organizing Committee), kicked off a penalty shootout. The shootout, which included one goal, one miss, and one save by the goalkeeper, symbolized the exciting matches to begin. The Opening ceremony began with a colorful cultural programme presented by the school children of GPS Kinyuka & PM SHRI GSS Mus, Car Nicobar. Earlier, Shri H. Nathaniel, Education Officer/Secretary (Organizing Committee) welcomed the gathering. In the inaugural match, A& N Command defeated Sri Vijaya Puram team by 1-0 goal. The first match played today (9th Feb 2025) between Wimberlygunj and Little Andaman ended in a goalless draw. The second match played today, between Car Nicobar and Katchal also ended in draw by 1-1 goal. Tomorrow, Chowra will play against Nancowrie at 7 am. Little Andaman to take on Rangat at 1.30 pm and Sri Vijaya Puram will play against Mayabunder at 3 pm. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33604-prestigious-xxvi-vice-president-of-india-cup-soccer-championship-2024-25-gets-underway-at-bjr-stadium ================== *District Administration Conducts Revenue Court Camp at GP Hope Town to Address Grievances of Locals* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 9:* The District Administration, South Andaman organized a Revenue Camp Court at Gram Panchayat, Hope Town, aimed at addressing the grievances of local residents. The Camp Court was chaired by Shri Arjun Sharma, IAS, Deputy Commissioner South Andaman, and was attended by Ms Mariyam Bibi, Zilla Parishad member, Ms Rasheeda, Pradhan, Hopetown and Pradhan, Mannarghat, Panchayat Samiti members and other PRI members. Officials from various Departments, including Revenue, Police, APWD, Electricity, Medical, Fire Service, Civil Supply, and Veterinary Hospital, were present to provide on-the-spot assistance. The Camp witnessed active participation from the local community, with many villagers attending to present their concerns. The Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman interacted with the villagers, addressing their issues and ensuring that the concerned departments took immediate action to resolve them. Several revenue cases were settled on the spot, providing prompt relief to the public. The Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman/Secretary (RD, PRIs & ULBs) also inaugurated the CC Road & Culvert at Mannarghat-05 under Mannarghat Gram Panchayat today, in the presence of Smti Sajida Banu, Pradhan, Gram Panchayat Mannarghat, Shri P Ummer, Zilla Parishad Member & Shri A Rajan, Panchayat Samiti Member, Mannarghat. He also reviewed the developmental works. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33603-district-administration-conducts-revenue-court-camp-at-gp-hope-town-to-address-grievances-of-locals ================= *Department of AH & VS Launches Pilot Project ‘Duck and Quail Village’* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 9:* To promote sustainable livelihoods for farmers and make the Islands self-sufficient in meat production, the Department of Animal Husbandry is implementing various schemes. The Poultry Development Program has been highly successful in the Islands, with commercial farming becoming independent and self-sustained. Backyard poultry farming is particularly popular, and egg and meat production in the Islands exceeds the national average. Moving forward, the Department plans to focus on creating dedicated market avenues for better remuneration. As part of this vision, the Department has launched a pilot project aimed at promoting the local duck breed of Swaraj Dweep and the Quail (Bateer) of Shaheed Dweep in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The ‘Duck and Quail Village’ initiative seeks to connect tourism with local farmers and foster entrepreneurship through modern animal husbandry practices. This program is designed to emphasize sustainable animal husbandry, empower farmers, create market opportunities, and build community resilience. By improving farming practices, enhancing market linkages, and offering capacity-building initiatives, the project aims to boost productivity, increase incomes, improve food security, and provide tourists with a chance to enjoy local organic cuisines. Under the ‘Duck and Quail Village’ initiative, selected farmers have been identified and trained. As the first step in this project, the Department has distributed 700 Quail and 545 Duck chicks to the interested farmers, encouraging them to adopt farming as a sustainable and viable source of income and nutrition. Local farmers have expressed excitement in expanding their farming activities. This initiative represents a significant step in diversifying the agricultural landscape of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, empowering the farming community, and enhancing the region's economic and nutritional well-being. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33602-department-of-ah-vs-launches-pilot-project-duck-and-quail-village ================ *Camp on Geriatric Care Through Naturopathy-Yoga Organised at Chinmaya* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 9:* Surya Foundation –International Naturopathy organization(INO) in collaboration with National Institute of Naturopathy, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India organized a Camp on “Geriatric care through Naturopathy-Yoga” at Chinmaya Mission on 8th February, 2025 Saturday. Dr Kalyan P Kadbhane Deputy Director Ayush and Dr Nandini from Ayush Hospital were the resource person. Swami Shuddhananda Saraswati, Resident Acharya of Chinmaya Mission and Dr CH Hemanta Rao, President, International Naturopathy Organization and Shri Manohar Singh, President Chinmaya Vanprasth Sansthan, were also present on the occasion. Speaking on this occasion Dr Kalyan P Kadbhane said that Naturopathy and Yoga is the one of the oldest and powerful method of treatment. He spoke on Naturopathy –yoga treatment and its importance. Dr Kadbhane also threw light on the use of millets in daily life. Dr Nandini also spoke on the importance of Naturopathy and conducted yoga and pranayama session for the audience. Queries from audience were also answered during the programme. Speaking on the occasion Chief Guest, Swami Shuddhananda Saraswati said that we must have the healthy life style and should follow the advice of the Ayush doctors. He appreciated the camp and thanked the organizers. Earlier Dr CH Hemanta Rao, President International Naturopathy Organization A & N Islands and camp organizer welcomed the gathering and briefed the audience about the camp. Secretary of the Chinmaya Mission, Shri R Raghunath proposed the vote of thanks. Shri Satinder Dubey coordinated the programme. The programme was attended by Mrs. Suma Nair, Secretary INO and Inmates of Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram among others. The Book “Mahatma Gandhi and Nature Cure” were also presented to the guests Around 175 people attended the programme. Membership drive of INO were also conducted. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33601-camp-on-geriatric-care-through-naturopathy-yoga-organised-at-chinmaya ================== *Enhanced U.S.-India Defense Ties and Indo-Pacific Security on Display at Aero India 2025* *Bengaluru Feb 9:* For the 15th time, the United States is proud to participate in Aero India 2025 — Asia’s premier aerospace and defense trade show exhibition. The United States will showcase a range of advanced aircraft, reinforcing the strong and growing defense and aerospace partnership between the United States and India, which share a commitment to promoting regional security, stability, economic prosperity through diversified trade, and strategic investment ties. At Aero India 2025, more than two dozen American exhibitors will engage Indian counterparts, explore new business opportunities, and demonstrate innovative solutions in aviation and defense. These companies will display advancements in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), fighter aircraft, advanced avionics, and defense electronics. U.S. Embassy New Delhi Chargé d’Affaires Jorgan Andrews will lead the high-level U.S. delegation of representatives from the U.S. Departments of State, Defense, and Commerce. Andrews said, “The United States is excited to once again participate in Aero India and to spotlight our strong defense ties with India. Our cooperation in defense, trade, and training is integral to our growing strategic partnership.” General Kevin Schneider, Commander, U.S. Pacific Air Forces, Brigadier General Patrick Teague, U.S. Mission India’s Senior Defense Official, and Consul General Chris Hodges, U.S. Consulate General Chennai, are among the senior leaders joining Chargé d’Affaires Andrews in the U.S. Delegation. Stronger, Deepening Defense Ties: Since Aero India 2023, the United States and India have deepened defense ties, including through technology innovation, expanded trade, and increased cooperation in maritime security, cybersecurity, logistics, and counter-terrorism operations. U.S. Pacific Air Forces Commander General Kevin Schneider said, “Aero India 2025 is an ideal forum to showcase U.S. defense aircraft and equipment and ultimately contribute toward our compatibility and interoperability with other nations.” He added, “The growth in Indian and U.S. bilateral defense trade has corresponded with growing interoperability through information sharing, liaison officers, training exercises, and defense enabling agreements. The importance of our partnership continues to grow, particularly as we face an increasingly complex and dynamic security environment in the Indo-Pacific.” Aero India 2025 Highlights: Spectators can expect a display of U.S.-made defense equipment and technology, including F-16, F-35, KC-135 Stratotanker, and B-1 bomber. The United States Air Force Band of the Pacific’s 10-member ensemble, Final Approach, based out of Yokota Air Base in Japan, will perform for the public throughout the week: at Aero India 2025 on February 13 and 14 and at 5:00 p.m. on February 11 at the Christ University auditorium, Campus Road in Bengaluru. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33600-enhanced-u-s-india-defense-ties-and-indo-pacific-security-on-display-at-aero-india-2025 ================ *BJP’s Resounding Victory in Delhi Assembly Elections 2025, Jolly Congratulates Delhi BJP* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 9:* Shri Vishal Jolly, National Executive Member of BJP, and Former State President, BJP Andaman & Nicobar Islands, extends his heartfelt congratulations to the Delhi BJP leadership and karyakartas on their phenomenal victory in the 2025 Delhi Assembly Elections. Shri Jolly lauded the dynamic leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and National President of BJP Shri J.P. Nadda, as well as the well-coordinated, vigorous campaign led by the BJP’s National and Delhi leadership. He emphasized that this victory signifies the triumph of truth over falsehood, good governance over corruption, and accountability over deception. In his message, Shri Jolly stated, "The people of Delhi have decisively rejected misinformation, propaganda, and hollow promises. This victory is a testament to their faith in the BJP’s commitment to transparency, progress, and development. I commend the relentless efforts of BJP karyakartas, whose dedication and perseverance have made this historic win possible. Justice has finally prevailed, and Delhi is now set on a path toward a brighter, corruption-free future under BJP’s governance." https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33599-bjp-s-resounding-victory-in-delhi-assembly-elections-2025-jolly-congratulates-delhi-bjp ================= *Training Programme on Revised Oral Health Manual Organised for Anganwadi Workers* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 9:* To improve the oral health situation in the country, GoI has initiated a National Oral Health Programme to provide integrated, comprehensive oral health care in the existing health care facilities with the objectives to improve the determinants of oral health, to reduce morbidity from oral diseases, to integrate oral health promotion and preventive services with general health care system etc. In line with this, a one-day Training Program for Anganwadi Workers on Revised Oral Health Manual under National Oral Health Programme (NOHP) in association with the Directorate of Health Services, was conducted on February 6, 2024, at Ograbraj Community Hall. The program witnessed enthusiastic participation of 109 Anganwadi Workers. The training program aimed to equip Anganwadi Workers with the knowledge and skills required to promote oral health and hygiene among children and communities. The revised oral health manual, which formed the basis of the training, provides comprehensive guidelines on oral health care and prevention of oral diseases. The participants were trained by Dr. Sanjiv Jaichand (Dental Surgeon/ Joint Secretary -NOHP) on various aspects of oral health, including the importance of oral hygiene, diet, deciduous (milk teeth) and regular dental check-ups. He also stressed on the need to incorporate importance of milk teeth during Poshan Maah Abhiyan. Dr. Farheen Kamil (Dental Surgeon) focused on the role of Anganwadi Workers in promoting oral health and preventing oral diseases in their respective areas. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33598-training-programme-on-revised-oral-health-manual-organised-for-anganwadi-workers ================ *Awareness Programme on PM Vishwakarma Scheme Organised at Ferrargunj* *Ferrargunj, Feb. 9:* Branch MSME-Development & Facilitation Office (Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Government of India), Sri Vijaya Puram in coordination with Andaman & Nicobar Administration organized an ‘Awareness Programme on PM Vishwakarma Scheme’ on Feb.6 at Community Management Training Centre, Ferrargunj for Prospective/Existing PM Vishwakarma beneficiaries & Traditional artisans and Craftspeople of 18 Trades covered under the PM Vishwakarma scheme. More than 105 potential PM Vishwakarma beneficiaries from the 18 trades of PM Vishwakarma scheme participated in the programme. The objective of the programme is to increase outreach and enrolments of potential beneficiaries under the PM Vishwakarma scheme especially in the districts where there is low enrolments of specific trades, despite the presence of prospective beneficiaries. A technical session was held during which, a detailed presentation on PM Vishwakarma Scheme explained to the participants. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33597-awareness-programme-on-pm-vishwakarma-scheme-organised-at-ferrargunj ================ *Bob’s Banter by Robert Clements* *Stop Choosing..!* Today being Sunday, I heard a deeply impactful sermon online by a Rev Johnson from Bangalore. He spoke on faith, rational thought and emotions, and I thought I’d write a simple story on the same: A celebrated architect, Aarav had built his career on steel, cement, and common sense. He designed the city’s finest high-rises, ensuring they wouldn’t collapse—even if the economy did. He was practical, methodical, and efficient, the kind of man who triple-checked structural integrity, but also loved creativity with new designs formed from the back of his head. Aarav also had a deep faith in God. Not the loud, dramatic kind that required Sunday affirmations and Bible poundings. No, Aarav’s faith was quiet, unshakable—like a well-laid foundation. He believed in something greater than himself, in a God who guided without interfering, who watched without micromanaging. For years, Aarav had struggled with three selves— Aarav the Rational, who built what made sense—efficient, practical, profitable. Aarav the Dreamer, who wanted to create something that mattered. And Aarav the man of faith! And then came The Great Tower: The commission to build arrived from Vikram Malhotra, Mumbai’s real estate mogul, a man who confused capitalism with divine right. “I don’t want just another building,” Malhotra announced, his diamond-studded watch flashing under the conference room lights. “I want a monument. Something that will make people stop and stare. Something that will make me feel immortal.” Aarav almost laughed. A skyscraper as a shrine? It was absurd. Buildings weren’t meant to be worshipped. But the money was too good. For weeks, he sat in his Bandra office, staring at a blank drafting table, torn between two voices: Rational Aarav said, “Follow the blueprint. Don’t reinvent the wheel.” Dreamer Aarav whispered, “Build something that will outlive you.” But then, Faithful Aarav—the one who never spoke but always knew—simply waited. And in that stillness, Aarav found clarity. "If I have been given a gift, shouldn’t I use it for something meaningful?" he thought. And so, The Great Tower was born. At its base—logic and stability. Steel, reinforced concrete, the precision of engineering. In its middle—artistry and imagination. Walkways that curved like riverbanks, sky gardens that breathed with the wind. And at its peak—a quiet sense of purpose. Nothing flashy, nothing loud. Just a design that made people look up—at a window into heaven. At the unveiling, Malhotra stood before a sea of journalists, adjusting his silk tie. “This tower,” he declared, “is a tribute to human ambition. To the visionaries who shape the future!” Aarav smiled. Visionaries. That was one way to put it. Later, a reporter turned to Aarav. "What inspired you to design something so… different?" Aarav looked up at the tower—the place where reason, ambition, and faith had finally found balance. He smiled and said simply, "I stopped choosing..!" *[email protected]* https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/features/33596-stop-choosing ==================