*::: 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* 14.02.2025 *EDITOR: DENIS GILES* --------------------------- *MP Meets Minister of Civil Aviation to Introduce Direct Flight Between Sri Vijayapuram and Madurai* *New Delhi, Feb 13:* Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Andaman & Nicobar Islands met Shri Ram Mohan Naidu, Hon’ble Union Minister of Civil Aviation and requested him to introduce a direct flight between Sri Vijayapuram (Port Blair) and Madurai to enhance connectivity and ease travel for residents of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, particularly those from Tamil Nadu and Kerala. In his appeal to the Minister, the Hon’ble MP highlighted that Madurai serves as a crucial transit point for people from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and adjoining states like Karnataka. At present, travellers must rely on connecting flights via Chennai, leading to increased travel time, expenses and inconvenience. The introduction of a direct flight would significantly alleviate these challenges, providing a seamless travel option for residents and visitors alike. The MP also informed the Minster that Madurai is a major cultural and religious hub, attracting thousands of tourists annually. A direct flight between Port Blair and Madurai would not only facilitate travel for pilgrims and tourists but also boost tourism and economic growth in both regions. The Hon’ble Union Minister of Civil Aviation has assured the MP that the request will be examined and duly considered. The MP expressed optimism that the Ministry will take prompt action to introduce this much-needed air route, enhancing regional connectivity and benefiting the people of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33660-mp-meets-minister-of-civil-aviation-to-introduce-direct-flight-between-sri-vijayapuram-and-madurai =============== *Interactive Sessions Held Between Investigating Officers of A & N Police and DLSA* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 13:* On 12th February 2025, The Andaman & Nicobar Police organized an enriching interactive session for the investigating officers of the A&N Police in association with the District Legal Service Authority, A&N Islands at PHQ Conference Hall. The session was aimed at enhancing the investigative skills and legal understanding of officers involved in the criminal investigation process. The Hon'ble District and Sessions Judge Shri Sudhir Kumar chaired the session and provided valuable insights on the legal nuances of investigations. The session also witnessed the participation of other distinguished judicial officials, including Hon’ble Family Judge Shri Dipendra Nath Mitra, Chief Judicial Magistrate Smti Arkabrati Neogi and Judicial Magistrate First Class Shri Anupam Sircar. Each of them delivered comprehensive lectures on crucial topics like ensuring compliance with statutory provisions of JJ Act and POCSO Act related to ensuring confidentiality of identity of victims, joining of independent witnesses in investigation, timely execution of summons and warrants etc. all of which greatly helped in enhancing the legal acumen of the investigating officers. During the session, the Hon'ble District Judge also interacted with the investigating officers and provided clarifications to their queries regarding various procedures. The session was attended by SSP(D)SA, SSP(CID), SPs from APU & PHQ, SDPO(SA), Dy.SP DHQ(SA), Station House Officers of A & N Islands and over 100 officers attend in person and virtually from N&M Andaman District, Nicobar District and Swaraj Dweep Sub Division. After conclusion of the session, the Worthy DGP, ANI, Shri Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal, IPS presented mementos to the Judicial Officials as a token of appreciation for delivering an insightful session. The Judicial officials also expressed their gratitude for being given the opportunity to enhance the legal awareness of investigating officers. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33659-interactive-sessions-held-between-investigating-officers-of-a-n-police-and-dlsa ================ *IATO Appreciates the Swift Medical Response Saving the Lives of Tourists* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 13:* In two recent medical emergencies faced by tourists, the swift response of the medical teams in the islands played a crucial role in providing relief and, in some cases, saving lives. In mid-January, an American national suffered a pelvic fracture due to a road accident in Swaraj Dweep (formerly Havelock Island). The medical team in Swaraj Dweep provided immediate care before transferring the patient to ANIIMS, Sri Vijaya Puram (formerly Port Blair), where the orthopedic team, led by Dr. Vishnu, ensured specialized treatment. The patient was later safely shifted to New York on a stretcher for further care. In another incident, a domestic tourist from Assam suffered a massive heart attack in Swaraj Dweep. He was promptly transferred to ANIIMS, Sri Vijaya Puram, where the cardiology team, led by Dr. Srikanth, performed a life-saving angioplasty and implanted a temporary pacemaker. The patient was stabilized and later moved to Kolkata for further treatment. The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) Andaman Chapter expresses its gratitude to the Andaman & Nicobar Administration, particularly Dr. Anil Agarwal (Secretary, Health) and Azhardduin Qazi (Director Tourism), for their cooperation and support. Special appreciation is also extended to Dr. Vishnu and his team, Dr. Srikanth and his team, and the medical personnel in Swaraj Dweep for their dedication and timely medical care. These incidents underscore the importance of a robust medical infrastructure in ensuring the safety and well-being of tourists visiting the islands. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33658-iato-appreciates-the-swift-medical-response-saving-the-lives-of-tourists ================ *5th Finance Commission to UT of ANI Meets Chief Secretary* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 13:* The 5th Finance Commission to UT of A&N Islands led by its Chairman, Shri Anil Kumar Jha on visit to A&N Islands, held meeting with the Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS and other Senior Officers in the Conference Hall of Secretariat today. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33657-5th-finance-commission-to-ut-of-ani-meets-chief-secretary ================ *Department of Fisheries in Association with DBRAIT Conducts Training on ‘Fish Value Addition’* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 13:* A three days training programme on 'Fish Value Addition' being organized by Department of Fisheries in association with Dr. B R Ambedkar Institute of Technology (DBRAIT), Dollygunj got underway with its inauguration by Ms Jyoti Kumari, IAS, Secretary (Fisheries) today at AV Hall, DBRAIT, Dollygunj. This programme is being organized under Skill Development Scheme of Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) with the financial support of NFDB, Hyderabad. In her inaugural address, the Secretary (Fisheries) highlighted the importance of addition of value to the fresh fish catch by adopting advanced preservation techniques. She explained about the economic benefits under PMMSY which could be generated from the produces in Agriculture and allied sector. Earlier, in her welcome address, Ms. Jagtap Kalyani Rajendra, Director of Fisheries requested the trainees to reap optimum benefit from the training and to learn the practical aspects of product development, so that the trainees can adopt the same while establishing their own units. Shri S.U Maheswar Rao, Governing Body Member of NFDB briefed about various activities under PMMSY and role of NFDB in providing financial assistance to undertake various activities including skill development training. A training manual on 'Fish Value Addition' in Hindi was also released during the inaugural session by the Secretary (Fisheries) and Dr. Utpal Sharma, Principal, DBRAIT on the occasion. The three days training programme is aimed at providing theoretical and hands-on-training on various aspects of fish value addition including hygienic handling of fish and fishery products, fish preservation techniques, fish dry salting/smoking, pickling, development of minced products, coated fish products etc. Altogether, 25 selected beneficiaries belonging to SHGs, Tribal Community and unemployed youth of A&N Islands are participating in the programme. The inaugural session concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Dr. K. Gopal, Joint Director (Fisheries). https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33656-department-of-fisheries-in-association-with-dbrait-conducts-training-on-fish-value-addition =============== *AC Office Nancowry Conducts 3rd Round of Prashasan Aapke Dwaar at Katchal* *Katchal, Feb. 13:* The Office of the Assistant Commissioner, Nancowry, conducted the 3rd round of ‘Prashasan Aapke Dwaar’ initiative at Katchal Island on Feb.12 & 13, 2025. This outreach program was aimed at bringing Government services closer to the residents, facilitating access to various welfare schemes and effectively addressing public grievances. The Camp witnessed active participation from multiple Departments, including Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, Animal Husbandry, ICDS, Transport, Banking, and Health Services. Over 250 beneficiaries availed themselves of different services during the two-day camp. Key highlights included distribution of 50 seed kits to farmers and awareness sessions on agricultural schemes, processing of 29 Aadhaar Card updates and issuance of 3 new Aadhaar Cards. Apart from this, Healthcare services were conducted, benefiting 86 patients, with consultations in general surgery, ophthalmology and obstetrics & gynecology. Enrollment in social welfare schemes such as PMJJBY, PMSBY, PM Vishwakarma, and DDU-GKY were also done and issuance of Kisan Credit Cards and registrations for Poultry/Duckling requirement were done. In addition to this, transport services, including new Learner’s License applications and Driving License renewals were also conducted during the camp. The Administration acknowledges the support of all participating Departments and appreciated the enthusiastic response from the public. The initiative will continue to reach remote areas, ensuring seamless delivery of Government services to the residents of the Nicobar Islands. Public feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with residents requesting periodic organization of such Camps to ensure sustained benefits. The Assistant Commissioner, Nancowry, Shri Aditya Sangotra has extended a special gratitude to Dr. Anil Agarwal, Secretary (Health), A&N Administration, for providing Specialist Doctors, and to the Deputy Commissioner, Nicobar, Shri Amit Kale, for his overall support and guidance. He also assured that the Administration will strive hard to bring services closer to the public and is working diligently to bring meaningful change to their lives. The dedicated efforts of the entire team ensured smooth logistical arrangements and the effective delivery of services to the public. Their commitment and hard work were instrumental in making the initiative a resounding success. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33655-ac-office-nancowry-conducts-3rd-round-of-prashasan-aapke-dwaar-at-katchal =============== *Markaz Public School Celebrates Annual Day ‘Lamha – The Moment’* *Kanyapuram, Feb 13:* Markaz Public School, Kanyapuram, hosted its grand Annual Day program, Lamha – The Moment, with an evening filled with art, culture, and talent. The event was held at CeePee's Dawath Mahal, Wimberly Gunj, and saw an enthusiastic gathering of students, parents, and distinguished guests. The Chief Guest for the evening was Dr. K. Chandrasekharan, President, Andaman Nicobar Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The event was graced by notable Guests of Honour, including: Adv. Rakesh Pal Govind (President, Bar Council), V K Abdul Aziz (Zilla Parishad, Kanyapuram) and A Ummer (Zilla Parishad, Wimberly Gunj). Art Gallery Exhibition: The festivities featured a vibrant Art Gallery showcasing handcrafted items, paintings, and decorative crafts made by the students. Eye-catching displays included mandala art and Arabic calligraphy, reflecting the students' creativity and dedication. Cultural Performances: The cultural segment began with a soulful group performance by students dressed in traditional attire, singing melodious verses and captivating the audience with their synchronized recitations. The Annual Day program was a resounding success, highlighting the school's commitment to nurturing creativity and talent among its students. Principal and staff expressed their gratitude to all participants and attendees for making Lamha – The Moment a memorable event. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33654-markaz-public-school-celebrates-annual-day-lamha-the-moment ================= *Motorcycle Rally Held to Promote Helmet Safety Awareness* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 13:* The A&N Traffic Police organized a Motorcycle Rally on 13.02.2025 to emphasize the importance of wearing helmets and following road safety norms. The rally was flagged off by Shri Manoj Kumar Meena, IPS, Sr. Superintendent of Police (Traffic), from the Children Traffic Park gate inside Marina Park. Over 50 enthusiastic students from various schools participated in the initiative reinforcing the critical need for helmet use and safe riding practices. The rally traversed through key areas of Sri Vijaya Puram City, aiming to educate the public especially young riders on the life-saving benefits of helmets. Participants carried impactful placards with safety slogans while vital road safety tips were announced through a Public Address (PA) system ensuring wider community engagement. As per MV Act, 2019, helmets are mandatory for all riders and pillion, including, children above the age of 04 years. Failure to comply with this rule could result in penalties, but more importantly, it poses a grave risk to life and safety. The event concluded with participants, including students taking a pledge to wear helmets consistently encourage others to follow traffic rules and actively promote road safety awareness in their communities. The A&N Traffic Police remain committed to fostering a culture of responsible road behavior to reduce accidents and save lives. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33653-motorcycle-rally-held-to-promote-helmet-safety-awareness =============== *Atal Foundation Extends Best Wishes to Students Appearing for CBSE Board Examinations* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 13:* Shri Azizur Rahman, President of Atal Foundation, along with his entire team, has extended heartfelt good luck wishes to all students of Class 10th and 12th appearing for their upcoming CBSE Board Examinations. Meanwhile Adv. Smti Suparna Biswas, Vice President of Pathshala APP, a key initiative of Atal Foundation, also conveyed her best wishes to the students and shared valuable Do’s and Don’ts to help them maintain a positive approach towards their exams. Do’s & Don’ts for Students and Parents: Don’ts: 1) Parents should avoid putting excessive pressure on their children during exam sessions or at any stage of life. 2) Do not compare one student with another, as each child is unique and possesses their own potential. 3) Always encourage and support your child in their academic journey. 4) Avoid speaking or thinking negatively, as a positive mindset is crucial for success. Do’s: 1) Students should believe in themselves—having confidence is half the battle won. 2) Manifest positive thoughts, as positivity leads to positive outcomes. 3) Remember that while you are a student for the world, for your parents, you are their entire world. 4) Stay calm, take deep breaths, and remain focused during the examination. The Atal Foundation extends warm wishes and prayers for the success of all students. May they perform their best and achieve their dreams. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33652-atal-foundation-extends-best-wishes-to-students-appearing-for-cbse-board-examinations ================ *Updates of XXVI Vice President of India Cup Soccer Championship* *Car Nicobar, Feb. 13:* The XXVI Vice President of India Cup Soccer Championship 2024-25 is currently underway at BJR Stadium, Tamaloo, Car Nicobar. On Feb.12 & 13, 2025, thrilling matches enthralled the audience, setting the stage for even more exciting encounters in the days ahead. In the matches played on Feb.12, A& N Command defeated Mayabunder by 7-01 and Katchal defeated Diglipur by 1-0. In the matches played on Feb. 13, Nancowrie defeated Campbell Bay by 3-0 and Wimberlygunj defeated Rangat by 3-0. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33651-updates-of-xxvi-vice-president-of-india-cup-soccer-championship ================ *DLSA to Hold National Lok Adalat in Port Blair and Mayabunder* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 13:* The District Legal Services Authority, Andaman & Nicobar Islands will be holding National Lok Adalat in the District Court Complex at Port Blair and Sub-Divisional Court Complex at Mayabunder and Circuit Court at Diglipur on 08.03.2025. Besides the compoundable nature of cases pending in different Courts, disputes at the pre-litigation stage will also be entertained by the National Lok Adalat for disposal upon consensual settlement between the parties. Pre-litigation disputes include (i) NI Act cases u/s 138, (ii) Money recovery cases, (iii) Labour dispute cases, (iv) Electricity and water bills cases (excluding non-compoundable), (v) Maintenance cases (vi) Civil disputes and (vii) Disputes under the Consumer Protection Act. The public in general having any such dispute at the pre-litigation stage or post-litigation stage are at liberty to submit their disputes in writing to the Secretary, District Legal Services Authority, Port Blair before Feb.27, 2025, so that their disputes may be processed and made ready for hearing before the National Lok Adalat on March 8, 2025. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33650-dlsa-to-hold-national-lok-adalat-in-port-blair-and-mayabunder-4 ================ *Swell Surge Alert for Andaman & Nicobar Coast* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 13:* Swell waves in the range of 16.0 - 18.0 sec period with 1.0 -1.1 m height have been forecasted till 02:30 hours of 14-02-2025. There is a possibility of surging of waves, boats have been advised to ply with utmost vigilance and conduct recreation with due care. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33649-swell-surge-alert-for-andaman-nicobar-coast =============== *Mini RCH Camp to be Organised at Manjery* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 13:* A Mini Reproductive and Child Health Camp (RCH) will be conducted under RCH programme by Union Territory Health Mission (UTHM) in association with the Directorate of Health Services, A&N Administration and ANIIMS on 15th February, 2025 from 9.30 am onwards at Manjery. The Gynecologist, Pediatrician, Orthopedic, Ophthalmology and Dental Surgeon will be providing their services during the Camp. In this connection, the general public have been requested to join hands so that the needy patients can avail the opportunity. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33648-mini-rch-camp-to-be-organised-at-manjery ================= *Bob’s Banter by Robert Clements* *Look Beyond the Lie...!* Very often I hear men and women telling me, “For me there is only black and white, it’s either a truth or a lie!” While I respect such people, and feel it’s commendable to be that way, I also see that many of them live miserable lives! Why? Because they are not able to forgive those who have lied to them. One of the greatest incidents of forgiveness I believe is that of a dying man, brutally beaten, pierced and now nailed to a cross, crying out, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do!” In other words, he understood why his accusers had lied, and after forgiving those murderers himself, wanted his father to do likewise. He understood the grey areas. What about us? Maybe, by considering the motivations behind a lie, we can begin to understand the emotions and intentions that drove the person to deceive. This can help us respond in a more empathetic and compassionate manner, rather than simply reacting with anger or hurt. Indeed, lies can be complex and multifaceted, and sometimes, they are told with the intention of protecting the person being lied to. This can be a difficult and delicate situation, as the liar may genuinely believe they are acting in the best interests of the other person. In such cases, the lie may be a misguided attempt to shield the person from hurt, pain, or discomfort. This can be seen in situations where a person lies to a loved one about a serious illness, a financial problem, or a personal struggle, in order to avoid causing them worry or distress. While the intention behind the lie may be benevolent, it's essential to acknowledge that lies can still cause harm and damage relationships. However, by recognizing the complexities of human motivations and the nuances of lying, we can approach these situations with empathy, understanding, and compassion. In this sense, forgiveness becomes not only a moral imperative but also a liberating force. By choosing to forgive, we release the negative emotions and energies associated with the lie. This creates space for healing, growth, and renewal, not only for us but also for the person who lied. As we navigate the complexities of human relationships, let us remember that truth and forgiveness are not mutually exclusive. Sometimes, it's necessary to look beyond the lie to find a greater truth – one that reveals the depths of human vulnerability, imperfection, and the universal need for compassion and understanding. Today’s column is not an excuse to those who lie, or to justify the actions of those who use lying as an everyday tool. Oh no, it’s for those finding it hard to forgive, and hard to unload themselves of the bitterness and anger of unforgiveness! Look beyond the lie...! *[email protected]* https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/features/33647-look-beyond-the-lie ===============