*::: 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* 21.02.2025 *EDITOR: DENIS GILES* --------------------------- *'Healthier and Disease-Free Tomorrow'* *GOI Sets up an Ambitious Target to Achieve 100% Screening of Individuals Aged 30 and Above for Diabetes, Hypertension and Three Major Types of Cancer* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 20:* As part of a significant public health initiative, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, has set an ambitious target to achieve 100% screening of all individuals aged 30 years and above for Diabetes, Hypertension, and three major types of cancers —Oral, Breast, and Cervical—by 31st March,2025. To accomplish this goal, a Special Screening Drive is being conducted across all Government Health Care Facilities from 20th February, 2025 to 31st March, 2025. Additionally, all health facilities are being mobilized to scale up both population-based and opportunistic screenings, ensuring comprehensive coverage of individuals aged 30 and above. In this regard, screening services have been initiated across all health care facilities, including those in the remote and island regions, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to preventive and curative healthcare. In the interest of public health, general public have been encouraged to participate in this screening campaign by getting screened for Diabetes, Hypertension, and common cancers at their nearest health facility free of cost. Participation of general public will contribute to achieving 100% screening coverage and ensuring early detection for a ‘Healthier and Disease-Free Tomorrow’. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33739-healthier-and-disease-free-tomorrow ================= *MP Bishnu Pada Ray Calls for Urgent Repair of Damaged Sluice Gate at Garacharma Village* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 20:* Shri Bishnu Pada Ray, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, has drawn attention to the long-pending issue of the damaged sluice gate near the Solar Power Plant at Garacharma Village – Attom Pahad in South Andaman. The sluice gate was originally constructed to prevent seawater intrusion into public and private lands. Unfortunately, it sustained major damage due to the Tsunami -2024 and subsequent earthquake, leading to continuous seawater ingress, which has left the lands of recorded tenants submerged and unsuitable for development. Over the past two decades, the affected tenants have repeatedly conveyed their concerns to the authorities through written and verbal appeals, yet the issue remains unresolved. This has caused considerable distress to the landowners, many of whom had invested their hard-earned savings with the hope of constructing homes but are now unable to proceed with development due to the persistent water intrusion. MP Bishnu Pada Ray has earnestly requested the Chief Secretary of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration to kindly intervene and direct the APWD authorities to prioritize the repair and reconstruction of the sluice gate. Restoring the structure will not only safeguard the lands from further damage but also open up opportunities for the development of a residential colony with the potential to accommodate over 2,000 plots, thereby benefiting a large number of affected families. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33738-mp-bishnu-pada-ray-calls-for-urgent-repair-of-damaged-sluice-gate-at-garacharma-village ================= *CPI (M) Inaugurates its Middle Andaman Area Committee Office* *Betapur, Feb 20:* The Middle Andaman Area Committee office of the CPI (M) has been inaugurated by D. Ayyappan, Secretary, CPI (M) A & N State Organising Committee in a simple function held at Betapur, Middle Andaman. The office will function from a temporary building at Betapur (in front of Govt. Secondary School, Shivapuram). After the inaugural function, a public meeting was organised in front of the newly opened party office which was presided over by Marykutty Thankachan, a party member of the area. Addressing the public meeting, D. Ayyappan, Secretary, CPI (M) criticized the BJP-led central government for the rising prices in the country. He said that the Modi government has not taken any step to arrest the price rise in the country. He also criticized the BJP for accepting more than 6000 crores of rupees as electoral bond from corporate in the country and said that Narendra Modi’s policies benefit only the corporate. He also expressed concern over the growing drugs availability in these islands. He assured the villagers of the Shivapuram Gram Panchayat who attended the inaugural function and public meeting that the CPI (M) will take up every issue of the area with the authorities in the Administration including the construction of the bridges across the Nallah connecting Betapur with Dharmapur. Addressing the public meeting PK Khalid, State Secretariat Member of CPI (M) briefly explained the various problems faced by the people of Shivapuram Gram Panchayat and blamed the BJP and Congress for such a situation. Rahul Dev Mridha, State Committee Member while addressing the meeting explained the rapidly growing unemployment in Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the failure of the BJP government to create jobs either in government sector or in public sector for local youth. SR Mridha, Secretary, Middle Andaman Area Committee also addressed the public meeting. Suseelan, an Old Party worker of the area proposed vote of thanks. Rajitha, Panchayat Member and Prakash Sardar, Area Committee Member were also present on the occasion. The opening of the Area Committee Office in Betapur under the Shivapuram Gram Panchayat has been widely welcomed by the people of the area. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33737-cpi-m-inaugurates-its-middle-andaman-area-committee-office =============== *Chess in Schools (CiS) programme begins at PM SHRI GSSS Bambooflat* *Bambooflat, Feb 20:* The Chess in Schools (CiS) programme, an initiative of the Department of Education, A&N Administration, commenced today at PM SHRI GSSS Bambooflat under the Wimberlygunj Educational Zone, with around 100 primary school students from various feeder schools participating enthusiastically. Dr. Manoharan, Deputy Education Officer, Wimberlygunj, made the ceremonial first move, officially marking the beginning of the programme in the presence of Smti. Sushila, HM (P) PM SHRI GSSS Bambooflat and other officials of the Education Department. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Manoharan highlighted the numerous benefits of playing chess, emphasizing its role in enhancing critical thinking, patience, and problem-solving skills while fostering discipline and focus among young learners. He encouraged students to take their learning beyond the classroom by playing chess with their peers, parents, and siblings. He also urged them to introduce the game to others, ensuring that more children can experience its cognitive and problem-solving benefits. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33736-chess-in-schools-cis-programme-begins-at-pm-shri-gsss-bambooflat ================ *Awareness Programme on Tuberculosis Organised at Karmatang* *Mayabunder, Feb. 20:* In connection with the 100 Days Intensified TB Campaign, an awareness programme on Tuberculosis (TB) was conducted at G.E.L Church, Karmatang today, under the supervision of Dr. Christina Rossity, District TB Officer, North & Middle Andaman District among religious leaders and the general public, in the presence of Rev. Paul Vijay Kujur. The awareness program aimed to educate the community about tuberculosis, its prevention, and treatment options, emphasizing the importance of early detection and adherence to treatment. The program began with a welcome speech highlighting the significance of TB awareness in the context of public health. Shri Madhava Rao Y, District Programme Coordinator (NTEP), provided an overview of TB, discussing its transmission, symptoms, and the two types of TB- latent and active. The presentation aimed to dispel common myths and misconceptions about the disease. Participants were informed about the importance of early diagnosis and the availability of medical services for screening and testing. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33735-awareness-programme-on-tuberculosis-organised-at-karmatang ============== *Directorate of Industries Organises Startup Pitching 2025* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 20:* In yet another step towards empowering the students of Higher Education Institutions, the Directorate of Industries in association with Higher Education Institutions, organized an event namely Startup Pitching 2025, in the Conference Hall of Directorate of Industries. About 120 students from different disciplines from various colleges participated. The event provided a platform to the students, entrepreneurs and youths to pitch their innovative ideas relevant to real life problems and solutions of these Islands. The inauguration session began with offline registration of students, followed by a formal welcome and brief of the program by the Nodal Officer of Startup India, Directorate of Industries and lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries. Shri.Siddhartha Gupta, Regional Manager, SBI delivered the opening address, highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship, role of Banks and Startups in the Islands. This was followed by insightful remarks and examples of successful startups by Shri. Rakesh Das, Director of Industries. Shri. Shanker Rao, HOD, DBRAIT emphasized on identifying the problems and challenges that can impact sustainability of a successful startup. The Technical sessions commenced with a presentation on ‘Understanding the Basics of Pitching’ by Smt. Nazima Parveen, State Data Project Manager (SOVTECH). Thereafter, there was a series of pitching on innovative ideas, logos, slogans and promotional videos by the students of Higher Education Institutes viz. DBRAIT, JNRM, ITI, TGCE and Pondicherry University. Around 15 teams from HEI’s presented their startup innovative ideas, 16 participants presented logos, 13 participants in slogan and 4 participants in promotional video competition. These ideas were competitive and inspiring with possible solutions and innovations. The event also featured a promotional video on the inspiring journey of Startups of the UT. The Startup Pitching Event concluded with vote of thanks proposed by Shri Mohammed Ishaq, Deputy Director. The event was well-received, with attendees expressing appreciation for the opportunity provided by the Department. The Startup Pitching 2025 has set a strong foundation for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among students, equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the startup ecosystem successfully. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33734-directorate-of-industries-organises-startup-pitching-2025 =============== *National Productivity Council (NPC) Residential Training Program on “Procurement Management & Financial Management”* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 20:* Procurement is now recognized as a strategic tool for achieving developmental, social and environmental objectives of governments, rather than using it as a tool for mere compliance with rules and regulation. Since public funds are being spent on public procurement for which specific rules and procedures have been framed therefore, the executives, officers and staff engaged in procurement have thorough knowledge of all the relevant rules, regulations and procedures of public procurement. Good Financial Management is essential for an organization to succeed. It helps in making effective use of resources, fulfil commitments to stakeholders, gain competitive advantage and prepare for long-term financial stability to accomplish the objectives of the organization. In an effort to upgrade the skills of various officials from Central & State Government Departments, Academic Institutions, PSUs, etc., National Productivity Council (NPC) a national level organization under Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India organizing various Residential Training Program in different locations throughout the country. Economic Services Group of NPC will be conducting one such Residential Training Program on “Procurement Management & Financial Management” Feb. 24-28, 2025, Port Blair, A & N. The Training programme has been designed to inculcate the importance of Procurement & Financial Management by updating skills, knowledge on best practices needed to effectively manage procurements and contracts in the public sector environment within the organization and shall emphasize on various aspects of managing financial resources more productively in improving managerial effectiveness and performance. There will be around 25-30 participants from different PSUs, Academic institutes, Corporations and various other Centre and State Departments. Shri Rajesh Sund, Director (Economic Services), NPC, who is coordinator of the program and also faculty for Financial Management has specified that this Training Program has been conceptualized with the objective to understand the kind of system and practices existing in Procurement Management and to evolve better methods, General Financial Rules in Procurement and to understand the importance of early resolution of disputes related to supply chain and the mechanisms to deal. Participants will also be enable the use of qualitative and quantitative tools and measures to distinguish the key financial risks, Valuation techniques and tools for learning & developing unique strategies, implement correctly and set financial targets. This Training Program will be a perfect balance of theoretical learning and hands-on practice and enables participants to develop the expertise in compliance, retain profitability and improve performance. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33733-national-productivity-council-npc-residential-training-program-on-procurement-management-financial-management ================ *Comments/ Suggestions/ Inputs Invited on Comprehensive Development of Fisheries in A&N Islands* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 20:* In continuation to the press note published in the Daily Telegrams on 09.01.2025 regarding Draft Policy on “Comprehensive Development of Fisheries of A&N Islands” prepared by the Directorate of Fisheries, A&N Administration, the last date for submission of comments/suggestions/inputs has now been extended up to 28.02.2025. The draft policy is available in the official website of A&N Administration https://www.andaman.gov.in. All valuable comments/suggestions/inputs may be submitted by either in writing to Directorate of Fisheries, A&N Administration, Sri Vijaya Puram or through email to [email protected] within the stipulated time. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33732-comments-suggestions-inputs-invited-on-comprehensive-development-of-fisheries-in-a-n-islands ================ *Ministry of Education Introduces Vidyanjali for Facilitating Community and Volunteers to Connect with Govt. Aided Schools* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 20:* Vidyanjali is an initiative of Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, for facilitating the community and volunteers to directly connect with the Government and Government-aided schools to contribute their services and/or assets/ materials/equipment through a dedicated portal. It’s an online portal to facilitate volunteer contribution by alumni of educational institutions, serving and retired teachers, scientists, government/semi-government officials, retired armed forces personnel, self-employed and salaried professionals, homemakers, persons from Indian diaspora and any other organization/group or company in the government/ government aided schools of their choice pan-India by registering on the Vidyanjali portal. The broad categories for volunteer contribution cover services/activities as well as assets/materials such as basic civil infrastructure, electrical infrastructure, digital infrastructure, equipment for extra-curricular activities such as sports, yoga, health safety aids and teaching learning materials, maintenance & repairs, office stationery/furniture/support services/needs etc. In this regard, interested volunteers/NGOs have been requested to register online in the Vidyanajali Portal.02 (https://vidyanjali.education.gov.in) and can contribute either in the form of assets or material or can participate by sharing their knowledge and skills in curricular, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities. For further assistance, one may contact Vidyanjali Coordinator via Mobile No. 9474219641. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33731-ministry-of-education-introduces-vidyanjali-for-facilitating-community-and-volunteers-to-connect-with-govt-aided-schools ================ *ANCOL to Prepare a Panel of Guest Faculties for Bengali Department* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 20:* The Andaman College (ANCOL) proposes to prepare a panel of Guest Faculties for Bengali Department on as and when required basis for the Academic Session 2024-2025. The Guest Lecturers/Resource Persons shall be paid honorarium of Rs. 1500 per lecture subject to a maximum of Rs. 50,000/- per month as per the UGC norms. The appointment will be purely on a temporary basis depending upon the requirement of the teaching workload in the concerned subject. The detailed Notice and Application Format and self-marking proforma can be downloaded from the College's official website https://ancol.andaman.gov.in. The duly filled in application form, self-marking proforma along with self-attested relevant documents and testimonials should be submitted by 24.02.2025 by 3.30 pm in Andaman College Office. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33730-ancol-to-prepare-a-panel-of-guest-faculties-for-bengali-department =============== *Bob’s Banter by Robert Clements* *Admit When Wrong..!* One night while watching George C. Scott acting as a New York cop in an old movie my thoughts went back many decades when dad had taken my brother and me to see the movie 'Patton.' I hero worshipped the General as he won battle after battle for the allied forces. "What a man!" I thought to myself, "I wish I could be as courageous as him!" But the movie ended on a rather tragic note and I remember how sorry I'd felt for Patton who finally fell because of his arrogance. "Why?" I asked my dad and he told me another story about the same general during World War II days. Patton once ac¬cepted an invitation to dine at a press camp in Af¬rica. Wine was served in canteen cups but, obvi¬ously thinking he was served coffee, Patton poured cream into his cup. As he stirred in sugar, Patton was warned that his cup contained red wine and not coffee. Now, General Patton could never, never be wrong could he? Without hesitating he replied, "I know. I like my wine this way." And he drank it! "Bob," said my wise dad, "It is diffi¬cult to admit mistakes. It is hard to admit when we are wrong. Three of life's most difficult words to say are, 'I was wrong.' But they are also three of the most powerful words we can utter. Saying 'I was wrong' breaks down barriers between people. It brings estranged people together and it creates a climate where intimacy and love may flourish. You may be surprised at how positively many people re¬spond to the words, "I was wrong"! I remembered Patton and I recollected my father's words last night as I saw George C Scott again. In his book with Ken Blanchard, everyone’s a Coach, Don Shula tells of losing his temper near an open microphone during a televised game with the Los Angeles Rams. Millions of viewers were surprised and shocked by Don's explicit profanity. Letters soon arrived from all over the country, voicing the disappointment of many who had respected the coach for his integrity. Shula could have given excuses, but he didn't. Everyone who included a return address received a personal apology. He closed each letter by stating, "I value your respect and will do my best to earn it again." Don Shula won the respect of his viewers once again by admitting that he was wrong in what he'd done. I hear my late dad's words coming to me across the great divide, "Bob, there are two ways to gain respect: One is to act nobly and the other is, when you fail to do so, to make no excuses in admitting you were wrong..!" *[email protected]* https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/features/33729-admit-when-wrong =================