*::: 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* 17.02.2025 *EDITOR: DENIS GILES* --------------------------- *Bishnu Pada Ray Urges Home Ministry to Compensate Farmers Affected by the 2004 Tsunami* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 16:* Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Shri Bishnu Pada Ray, has made an urgent appeal to the Union Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah for compensation to farmers whose lands were submerged in the sea following the devastating 2004 Tsunami. This appeal is based on the recommendations of the Vivek Rae Committee, constituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2017 to examine land matters in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The committee, chaired by Shri Vivek Rae, IAS (Retd.), was tasked with reviewing critical land-related issues, including compensation for tsunami-affected farmers, the adequacy of previous relief payments and the regularization of excess land occupied by settlers prior to 1961. Despite the committee submitting its comprehensive report, its recommendations remain unimplemented, leaving affected farmers in a state of prolonged distress. Shri Bishnu Pada Ray emphasized that the committee's findings clearly stated that the compensation provided to the farmers was grossly inadequate and recommended enhanced compensation. However, more than two decades after the disaster, these farmers continue to wait for justice, with many having passed away without receiving any relief. The MP also pointed out that while some of the submerged lands have been naturally reclaimed, further restoration is possible through simple engineering interventions such as sluice gates and bunds. Yet, despite these feasible solutions, bureaucratic delays and inaction have prolonged the farmers' suffering. Furthermore, Shri Ray highlighted the committee’s recommendation on regularizing excess land occupied by pre-1961 settlers. This decision, he noted, should have been implemented without further consultation, as it aligns with principles of fairness and equity. Expressing deep concern over the prolong pending issue, the MP stated, “These farmers lost their lands due to a natural disaster beyond their control. The government must act now to provide long-overdue relief and uphold justice. Further delays would only compound their suffering.” In the above said context, Shri Bishnu Pada Ray has urged the Home Ministry to expedite the consultation process, implement the committee’s recommendations and ensure that affected farmers receive the compensation they rightfully deserve. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33686-bishnu-pada-ray-urges-home-ministry-to-compensate-farmers-affected-by-the-2004-tsunami ================= *4th Samir Acharya Memorial Award Presented to Mohammed Hussain* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 16:* The 4th Samir Acharya Memorial Award for the Conservation of Coastal and Island Ecosystems was today awarded to Shri. Mohammed Hussain, Forester, at Bageecha, Brijgunj Chowk. The ceremony was conducted today, being the birth anniversary of Late Samir Acharya The ceremony began with an emotional narrative by Shri. Denis Giles who consider Shri. Acharya to be his mentor. Samhita Veda Acharya, daughter of Samir Acharya introduced the guests to the legendary Samir Acharya's contributions to the islands as a world renowned environmentalist. Shri. Hussain in his speech mentioned how marine mammals are strangled by fishing nets and how important it has become to spread awareness on plastics and their impact on our fragile ecology. Shri. Hussain also added that his interactions with Mr. Acharya were always warm. The award was given away by Smti. Pushpanjali Raju, sister of Geetanjali Acharya. She hilariously mentioned how Mr. Acharya, in spite of being a Bengali loved spicy food. And she lovingly remembered how he maintained relationships with warmth. The guests included eminent personalities like Shri. Meherzaad Akhtar Khaveri, Shri. Arun Singh, Smri. Madhuri Mondal. Shri. Sanjib Kumar Roy, Shri Abhijit Agarwal, Shri. Denis Giles, Shri. Promotho Mazumder and Shri. Ashraf Hanif who also was the recipient of the second Samir Acharya Memorial Award. Shri. Abhijit Agarwal in his address said this was a special event as never has he ever attended the birthday celebration of a deceased person where everyone looks so happy. Shri. Sanjib Kumar Roy was full of praises for Shri Acharya and mentioned how visiting journalists would always make a beeline for his shop to meet him. Shri Ashraf while thanking the family again for the initiative, mentioned that when he had started off, there wasn't much support but how people do appreciate and recognise the efforts that are put in for conservation of our islands' ecosystem. The ceremony ended with some surprising renditions by Shri. Denis Giles, Shri Abhijit Agarwal and Shri. Sanjib Kumar Roy. The late Shri. Samir Acharya is survived by his wife Smti. Geetanjali Acharya who lives in Mumbai and couldn't attend the ceremony due to unavoidable reasons, and his daughter Samhita Veda Acharya along with his grandson Mr. Marvelous Giles. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33685-4th-samir-acharya-memorial-award-presented-to-mohammed-hussain ============== *PMF Rangat’s MV Suntook Rescues Drifting Fishing Dinghy Off Long Island* *Diglipur, Feb 16:* Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to maritime safety, the PMF Rangat’s MV Suntook executed a swift and effective response to a distress situation involving a fishing dinghy off the coast of Long Island during a routine sea patrol. On 15.02.2025, during patrolling operations approximately 2 nautical miles off Long Island and North Passage Island, the crew members consisting of SI(Master) Abdul Lathief, SI(ED) Sandeep Shann, HC (Seacunny) Samson & PC (Greaser) N. Zainudeen of Police Marine Force vessel MV Suntook identified a fishing dinghy adrift due to a reported engine failure. The 10 fishermen onboard, all identified residents of Junglighat, signaled for assistance. Promptly responding to the emergency, the vessel’s crew maneuvered towards the dinghy and extended necessary technical support. To ensure the safety and well-being of the distressed fishermen, MV Suntook towed the vessel to Rangat Bay Jetty, where a comprehensive technical assessment was conducted by the PMF team. The investigation revealed that the dinghy, fitted with a Mahindra pickup engine, had encountered an electrical starting malfunction. The identified technical anomaly was promptly rectified on-site, restoring the vessel’s operational capability. Following the successful repair, the fishing dinghy was cleared to resume its journey towards Junglighat, Sri Vijaya Puram. This timely intervention by the PMF personnel aboard MV Suntook underscores their unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the local fishing community and reinforcing maritime vigilance. The general public is requested to pass and share any credible information pertaining to any crime or illegal activities to their nearest Police Station or over phone No.100, 112 & 03192-273344. The identity of the informers will be kept secret and will also be suitably rewarded. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33684-pmf-rangat-s-mv-suntook-rescues-drifting-fishing-dinghy-off-long-island ================ *HumaneTouch NGO Brings Warmth to Hopetown Village through Clotheshare Program* *Hopetown, Feb 16:* HumaneTouch NGO continues its mission of social welfare with their impactful initiative, the Clotheshare Program benefiting nearly 75 families in Hopetown village. The event, held at 10 AM, saw active participation from local leaders and residents, reinforcing the spirit of community support. Mujib Rehman, President of HumaneTouch, inaugurated the event by introducing the various humanitarian efforts undertaken by the NGO. He highlighted how HumaneTouch has been consistently working towards uplifting underprivileged communities by providing essential resources like clothing, education, and medical support. Addressing the gathering, Smti. Rasheeda Banu, Pradhan of Hopetown, lauded the NGO’s relentless efforts in bringing positive change. She emphasized the importance of such initiatives in ensuring that basic necessities reach those in need. Panchayat Samiti member, along with the Up-Pradhan, were also present, further strengthening the collaborative spirit between social organizations and local governance. The Clotheshare initiative has been a signature program of HumaneTouch, successfully reaching various villages across the Islands. The NGO’s consistent work in rural areas has not only provided material relief but also instilled a sense of hope and dignity among beneficiaries. Residents of Hopetown village expressed their gratitude, acknowledging that the support received through this program would significantly help them.This initiative reduces financial burdens and brings smiles to those who struggle to afford basic clothing. Those willing to contribute to this initiative may contact C. Khalid- 9476051525. HumaneTouch welcomes support in its ongoing journey of service and compassion. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33683-humanetouch-ngo-brings-warmth-to-hopetown-village-through-clotheshare-program ============== *VAT Commissionerate Issues Demand Notices to Dealers* *VAT collection increases by Rs. 56.83 lakhs in ongoing Financial Year* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 16:* The VAT Commissionerate, A & N Administration remains committed to the effective implementation of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Value Added Tax Regulation, 2017. To combat tax evasion and ensure strict compliance with the VAT Regulation, Value Added Tax Assessments have been conducted. During assessments for the periods 2017-18 to 2020-21, several tax deficiencies and violations were identified, leading to the imposition of interest and penalties. To date, the Department has collected additional revenue amounting to Rs. 56,83,106/-, which includes Rs. 16,85,177/- in tax/interest and Rs. 39,97,929/- in penalties. The VAT Commissionerate is steadfast in safeguarding the Government Exchequer and will not tolerate any violations of the Regulation, Rules, or directives. The registered dealers are once again urged to fully comply with the provisions of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Value Added Tax Regulation, 2017, the Rules 2020, and all related directives to avoid penalties. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33682-vat-commissionerate-issues-demand-notices-to-dealers ================ *MP Advocates for Local Engineering Youths for Enlistment as Contractors in APWD* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 16:* Shri Bishnu Pada Ray, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, has urged the APWD authorities of A&N Administration to ensure fair opportunities for local engineering graduates and diploma holders by reinstating the enlistment process for contractors under CPWD norms. In his letter he stated that a large number of local youths who have completed Engineering and Diploma courses have approached the MP, highlighting their grievances about the current enlistment system. They have expressed concerns over being excluded from contractor categories, which has adversely impacted their professional growth and livelihood opportunities. The MP has pointed out that instead of following the well-established CPWD enlistment norms, a new open system has been introduced, allowing broader participation beyond the prescribed criteria. This deviation has expressively affected eligible local youths and existing enlisted contractors, limiting their chances to secure APWD contract works. In light of these concerns, the MP has requested the APWD to reinstate the previous enlistment system under CPWD norms. This will ensure that qualified local engineers and diploma holders get a fair opportunity to participate in government contract works, fostering employment and economic stability in the islands. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33681-mp-advocates-for-local-engineering-youths-for-enlistment-as-contractors-in-apwd ================ *Agriculture Department in Association with Industries Department Conducts Training on Value Addition of Fruits and Vegetables* *Diglipur, Feb. 15:* The Zonal Agriculture Office, Department of Agriculture, A & N Administration in association with Industries Department organized a two-day training program under ATMA on 'Value Addition of Fruits & Vegetables' on 14th & 15th February, 2025 at the premises of Zonal Industries Office, Diglipur. During the training, Smti Arti Singh, Assistant Director (Agri), Diglipur briefed the participants about the importance of fruits & vegetables in the diet being protective foods rich in vitamins & minerals. She informed how value addition helps in reducing food losses, extending shelf life and enhancing nutritional value thereby increasing farm incomes and contributing to food security in addition to the diversification of products. Ms. Bibi Afreen Nisha, IPO, Industries Department stated that the food processing sector offers numerous opportunities for investment, entrepreneurship, and employment which the participants can avail from the Industries Department and practice value addition in large scale. Further, hands on training on value addition of Carambola, Ginger and Mango was given by Ms. Arshiya Rehman, Instructor under the guidance of Shri Swapan Chandra Mallick, Pilot Plant Incharge, Industries Department Diglipur. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33680-agriculture-department-in-association-with-industries-department-conducts-training-on-value-addition-of-fruits-and-vegetables =============== *PBGKR Successfully Conducts 3rd Super-Specialist Health Camp in Collaboration with Gleneagles Hospital* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 16:* Continuing its commitment to providing specialized healthcare services to the people of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Port Blair Guru Ki Rasoi, in collaboration with Gleneagles Hospital, Chennai, and under the guidance of the Health Department, successfully conducted its 3rd Super-Specialist Health Camp at GB Pant Hospital on February 15 and 16, 2025. Following the success of the 1st camp in November 2024 and the 2nd camp in December 2024, this third camp further strengthened the initiative to bring expert medical consultation and treatment closer to the local community. A team of renowned super-specialist doctors from Gleneagles Hospital, Chennai, provided consultations in various medical fields, with a special focus on nephrology, cardiology & neurology. Among the key specialists was Dr. Balaraman, a senior nephrologist, who provided expert guidance and consultations for patients with kidney-related ailments. The camp witnessed an overwhelming response, with hundreds of patients availing free consultations, diagnostic screenings, and expert medical advice. In addition to personalized healthcare services, awareness sessions on preventive health, lifestyle diseases, and post-treatment care were conducted to educate the public on maintaining long-term wellness. Mandeep Grewal, Founder & President of Port Blair Guru Ki Rasoi expressed his gratitude to Gleneagles Hospital, Chennai, the Health Department, and the dedicated team of doctors and volunteers for their unwavering support. The Health Department acknowledged the importance of such outreach programs in enhancing healthcare accessibility in the region. With the continued success of these camps, Port Blair Guru Ki Rasoi remains committed to organizing more such initiatives to ensure specialized medical care reaches those in need. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33679-pbgkr-successfully-conducts-3rd-super-specialist-health-camp-in-collaboration-with-gleneagles-hospital ================ *IIT Roorkee Collaborates with DBRAIT for Development of Virtual Labs* *Sri Vijaya Puram Feb. 16:* IIT Roorkee agreed in principle to collaborate with DBRAIT for development and deployment of Virtual Labs, an initiative of the Ministry of Education (MoE), Government of India, aimed at providing remote access to laboratories in various disciplines of science and engineering. The proposal was made during the concluding session of the two-day Virtual Lab Workshop held on Feb.14 &15, 2025 by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Institute of Technology (DBRAIT) in association with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee. The workshop, recorded participation from 135 students and faculty members from DBRAIT and Jawaharlal Nehru Rajkeeya Mahavidyalaya (JNRM), focused on the development and implementation of virtual labs. This collaboration with institute of repute and eminence as IIT Roorkee will pave way for development of Laboratories on Emerging Trends and Future Technologies and significantly enhance the learning experience for students. IIT Roorkee also proposed paid internships for DBRAIT students in online mode, providing them with valuable hands-on experience and exposure to cutting-edge technologies. The workshop provided attendees with insights into the benefits and applications of virtual labs in various disciplines. The key takeaways of the participants were orientation on MoEs initiative of Virtual Lab platform and the hands-on training on development of such Virtual Labs for concerned disciplines. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. R.S Anand, Project Head, Virtual Lab IIT Roorkee and Project Associates, Shri Chetan and Ms. Swati Chauhan shared their knowledge and expertise, demonstrating the potential of virtual labs to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and practical application. Participants engaged in interactive sessions, explored the functionalities of existing virtual labs and brainstorming ideas for future development. During the valedictory session, Ms. Astha Gautam welcomed the gathering and presented a brief report on the two days session. Principal, Dr. Utpal Sharma insisted the students to take up development of Virtual Lab projects for difficult and conceptual subjects. He also felicitated the Resource Persons from IIT Roorkee. Dr. Shrabani Mallick, Event Coordinator proposed the vote of thanks. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33678-iit-roorkee-collaborates-with-dbrait-for-development-of-virtual-labs ================ *ANC to Lock Horns with Sri Vijaya Puram in the Finals of Vice President Cup Soccer Championship* *Car Nicobar, Feb. 16:* A&N Command will lock horns with Sri Vijaya Puram in the final of XXVI Vice President of India Cup Soccer Championship 2024-25 being played at BJR Stadium, Tamaloo, Car Nicobar. The final match will be played on Feb.17 at 2 PM. In the first semifinal played today, A&N Command defeated Nancowrie by 1-0 in a spectacular match. The 1st Semi Final match was graced by Shri Solomon Samuel, DANIPS, Dy. Superintendent of Police, Nicobar District as the chief guest. In the second semi-final, Sri Vijaya Puram defeated Chowra by 3-0. Shri Muneer Ahmed, DANICS, Assistant Commissioner (HQ) Car Nicobar graced the occasion, as chief guest for this match. The match for the 2nd Runners Up position will be played between Chowra and Nancowrie on 17th February at 6 AM. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33677-anc-to-lock-horns-with-sri-vijaya-puram-in-the-finals-of-vice-president-cup-soccer-championship ================ *DLSA to Hold Lok Adalat in Port Blair and Mayabunder* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 16:* 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/33676-dlsa-to-hold-lok-adalat-in-port-blair-and-mayabunder ================= *Bob’s Banter by Robert Clements* *Through the Eyes of a Child...!* John believed engines made more sense than people. As a mechanic, he found comfort in gears, bolts, and oil-stained overalls. Machines were predictable; God, on the other hand, was a concept he had long discarded—somewhere between his business failing and the moment he realized no divine hand was coming down to fix it for him. Then came Emma. His four-year-old granddaughter was dropped into his life and that of her grandmother like a wrench in a well-oiled engine. His son, came home for a holiday with Emma, feeling a grumpy, grease-smelling old man could handle a toddler with the energy of a thousand lightbulbs. John wasn’t so sure. Emma, however, took one look at her grandfather and decided he was hers. She claimed the best armchair, filled the house with crayon drawings, mostly circles and straight lines and asked an endless stream of questions. “Why did the cow jump over the moon?” and then suddenly a strange question, “Do you like God?” John choked on his tea. “Like God?” he muttered. “I don’t dislike Him… I just don’t bother Him.” Emma’s tiny face scrunched up as she considered this. “That’s silly,” she declared, and skipped off. Days passed, and Emma continued her reign of terror, which meant she continued being a normal four-year-old with an alarmingly high intake for all things her mother forbade. Then one afternoon, as they were in the park, she fell from the slide, and landed hard on her knee. The wail that followed could have woken the dead—or at the very least, alerted the whole housing colony. John scooped her up, panic briefly slicing through him. “Alright, alright, let’s see,” he said, patting her back as she sobbed into his wet T shirt. “You’re alive. Both legs still attached.” “But it huuuurts,” she sniffled, rubbing at the scratch like she had just been struck down by a truck. Then she looked up at him with those big, teary eyes and said the words that cracked something in John’s old heart. “I knew you’d fix it, Grandpa.” It was such a simple thing. Such unshakable trust. She didn’t hesitate, didn’t wonder if he cared, didn’t doubt his willingness to help. She just knew. That night, as Emma snored softly beside him, John stared at the ceiling and thought about the last time he had trusted like that. When had he last believed in anything beyond what he could see, fix, or take apart? When had he last leaned into something bigger than himself, the way Emma had leaned into him? The next Sunday, John found himself listening to a sermon he hadn’t heard in decades. Emma, beside him, beamed like she had orchestrated the whole thing. “I told God you were being silly,” she whispered, squeezing his hand. John chuckled. “Yeah, Emma. I think He got your message...!” *[email protected]* https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/features/33675-through-the-eyes-of-a-child ===================