*::: 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* 26.02.2025 *EDITOR: DENIS GILES* --------------------------- *Future of Hundreds of B.Sc-B.Ed (Computer Science) Pass-outs Remain in Dark* *MP asks LG to Create GTT- Computer Science Posts in Government Schools* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 25:* The Member of Parliament Shri Bishnu Pada Ray has expressed concerns over the prevailing uncertainty over the job prospects of the B.Sc-B.Ed (Computer Science) pass-out Graduates. In his letter to the Lieutenant Governor, he requested him to facilitate the creation of “Graduate Trained Teacher(GTT)-Computer Science” Posts in Government Schools under the Directorate of Education, ensuring good qualitative Computer Education to the students, especially from class VI to XII. He said it’s surprising that in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), when Computer Education in schools seeks greater attention, the Administration doesn’t seem interested in it. There is still no regular GTT-Computer Science in the 141 upper Primary Government Schools in the Islands to teach Computer Education to the students of class VI to Class XII. It’s surprising, he said that though, on the direction of the Ministry and CBSE, the Department has introduced vocational Education in IT for the students of class IX to XII, but only contractual teachers (Vocational Education Teacher-VET) have been assigned the task of teaching in these around 60 schools, for a nominal salary of Rs 25,000. A couple of years back, to equip the students of class VI to VIII with the basics of Computer fundamentals, a Pre-Vocational Course on “Information and Technology-ICT” was added to school academics and for this also, the Department is engaging ICT Instructors on a meager salary of Rs 15,000 per month, which is even less than the skilled DRMs in Islands, which according to the MP is the gross violation of the Principle of “Equal Work-Equal Pay”. Referring to the sufferings of the B.Sc-B.Ed (Computer Science) pass-out Ex-Students of the local Tagore Govt. College of Education of Sri Vijay Puram, Shri Ray said, showing far-sightedness, the Administration had opened a new stream of 4 years duration “B.Sc-B.Ed in Computer Science” way back in 2003. Every year 10 students are admitted in the first year. But after passing out they find no opportunity in the regular teaching profession. They are forced to seek employment in other cadres uninterestingly or do some other kind of jobs in the private sector. It’s been 22 years of struggle, agony, and frustration, and many of them have exceeded the age limits for regular jobs, and are now on the verge of getting into depression. The MP requested the LG to direct the Education Department to take the necessary steps to create the required number of GTT (Computer Science) Posts for all the 141 upper Primary (Middle, Secondary, and Senior Secondary) Government Schools in the Islands and initiate the recruitment process at the earliest. This will enable the schools to cater to the needs of the students for the vocational course in IT, as mentioned in the National Policy on Education 2020. He also stressed the need to fill up all the posts of CI(CA)-“Craft Instructor(Computer Application) “, terming it unfortunate that only a handful of vacancies have been filled up in the last 10 years, and the students are left to suffer. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33789-future-of-hundreds-of-b-sc-b-ed-computer-science-pass-outs-remain-in-dark ================ *Secretary Health Inaugurates State-of-the-Art 128-Slice CT Scan Facility in GB Pant Hospital* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 25:* In a significant step towards enhancing medical diagnostics, a new State-of-the-Art 128-slice CT Scan facility was inaugurated at GB Pant Hospital today by the Secretary (Health), Dr. Anil Agarwal. The facility aims to provide advanced imaging services to patients, ensuring faster and more accurate diagnoses. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Secretary (Health) emphasized the Administration’s commitment towards improving healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that cutting-edge technology is accessible to all. "This new facility will significantly reduce waiting times and enhance the quality of patient care and reflects our continuous efforts to upgrade medical services for the benefit of the community," he said. The 128-slice CT scanner is equipped with the latest technology to provide high-resolution images with reduced radiation exposure, making it safer for patients. It is capable of performing a wide range of diagnostic procedures, including cardiac scans, brain imaging, and whole-body scans, ensuring comprehensive care for diverse medical needs. Dr. M.K. Saha, Medical Superintendent of GB Pant Hospital, expressed gratitude to the Administration for their support. "With this addition, GB Pant Hospital is now better equipped to handle complex diagnostic cases efficiently. The facility will not only benefit the residents of Sri Vijaya Puram but also those from other Islands too," he noted. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Dr. Suja Antony, Director of Health Services & Director, ANIIMS, senior officials, Health Care workers, and local residents, all of whom welcomed the initiative as a much-needed development in the Island’s healthcare landscape. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33788-secretary-health-inaugurates-state-of-the-art-128-slice-ct-scan-facility-in-gb-pant-hospital ================ *Tribal Development Cooperative Society Ltd. Distributed Bonus Shares to Tribal Farmers* *Kamorta, Feb 25:* The Tribal Development Cooperative Society Ltd. Nancowrie distributed bonus shares to tribal farmers across various villages, marking a significant step toward economic empowerment and sustainability for the tribal community. This initiative is being implemented under the leadership of Smti. Aysha Majid, Chairperson of the Tribal Development Cooperative Society Ltd. The distribution of bonus shares is aimed at recognizing the invaluable contribution of tribal farmers to the cooperative’s success and ensuring they receive their rightful share in the prosperity of the society. The initiative will benefit farmers from multiple villages, with the active participation of respective village captains and tribal councils, ensuring a fair and transparent distribution process. On the occasion, Smti. Aysha Majid emphasized the importance of uplifting the tribal economy and empowering local farmers through cooperative efforts. “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to strengthening the financial well-being of our tribal farmers. By distributing bonus shares, we are not only sharing the success of the cooperative but also reinforcing our long-term vision for sustainable development,” she stated. Rayhaan Pasha, President of Nicobar Youth Association extended his support and highlighted the critical role of the tribal community in the economic development of the region. He reiterated their dedication to promoting financial inclusion and improving the livelihoods of tribal farmers. He also appreciated the Government of India and A&N Administration's encouragement of tribal social initiatives and the timely support provided, which has significantly contributed to the success of these efforts. Additionally, he expressed his appreciation for the efforts made by Smti. Aysha Majid in spearheading this initiative, acknowledging her dedication and hard work in driving the cooperative's vision forward. The village captains and tribal councils have played a crucial role in facilitating this initiative, ensuring that the benefits reach the deserving farmers effectively. Their cooperation has been instrumental in maintaining transparency and fairness throughout the process. The Tribal Development Cooperative Society Ltd. remains committed to fostering growth and economic sustainability for the Nicobar tribal community. This initiative is expected to create long-term benefits, empowering farmers to reinvest in agriculture and improve their standard of living. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33787-tribal-development-cooperative-society-ltd-distributed-bonus-shares-to-tribal-farmers ================= *59th AGM of Andaman & Nicobar State Cooperative Bank held* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 25:* The 59th Annual General Body Meeting of Andaman & Nicobar State Cooperative Bank was held on 25.02.2025 at its Conference Hall. Shri. K Subramani, Vice- Chairman, A&NSt.CB Ltd chaired the meeting. The Board of Directors, Members of PACS (Primary Agriculture Credit Societies) and various affiliated Societies and Bank officials were also present. At the outset, K Murugan, Managing Director welcomed the delegates wholeheartedly and expressed gratitude to the dignitaries present on the dais. He also expressed gratitude to the representatives of various cooperative societies for attending the meet. Shri. K Subramani, Vice-Chairman, A&NSt.CB Ltd in his key note address on Banking & other development, social & Govt. Policies and schemes presented the current financial parameters of the bank with respect to its financial position. He informed the General Body that there has been substantial progress and highlighted the various performance parameters of the bank before the General Body. In his keynote address, Shri. K Subramani, Vice-Chairman of the bank expressed his gratitude to all members of PACS, Board of Directors, Bank Staff and specially the public and Administration for their support and cooperation to Cooperative Bank. The Vice-Chairman further urged all the members present on the occasion to popularise the schemes of the bank and also the schemes rendered by Govt. Of India. He stressed that the Bank has chalked out a various developmental activities including new schemes of bank. Further, the Managing Director took up the Agenda wise points of the General Body Meeting wherein detailed discussions were held and the General Body approved and adopted the necessary resolutions. The delegate from PACS and various other Cooperative societies including representatives of Tribal Cooperative Societies have suggested various measures for improvement like awareness programme for cashless transaction, opening of more Branches, ATMs, etc. The meeting culminated with the vote of thanks proposed by Shri. Raghubhir Singh, General Manager (Dev.) i/c. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33786-59th-agm-of-andaman-nicobar-state-cooperative-bank-held ================ *ICAR-CIARI Conducts Training Programme on Intercropping in Plantation Crops for Tribal Farmers in Little Andaman* *Hut Bay, Feb 25:* Coconut and arecanut are the major plantation crops of the islands; however, most of the plantations in the islands are monocropped ones. Monocropping poses the risk of spread of dreadful diseases and pests in the plantations and also reduces the resource use efficiency. Land which is the restricting factor for our islands remains largely underutilized through mono cropping. In order to create awareness among the farmers about this aspect, a training programme on Plantation Crops based Cropping System for Tribal Farmers was organized on February 22, 2025 at Harminder Bay, Little Andaman under ICAR- AICRP on Plantation Crops project. The programme was attended by 25 women participants. Dr. Ajit Arun Waman, coordinator of the programme provided detailed information on suitable intercrops for plantations and encouraged the participants for taking up the activity in groups so as to generate sufficient produce for selling in the markets. As per their demand, quality planting material of improved varieties of arecanut was also provided under Schedule Tribe Component to the tribal council for establishment of community plantation with intercropping system during the upcoming monsoon season. Mr. Festus, Secretary, Tribal Council and Mr. Andrew Moses, First Captain expressed gratitude to the coordinator and the Institute for the valuable information and physical inputs. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33785-icar-ciari-conducts-training-programme-on-intercropping-in-plantation-crops-for-tribal-farmers-in-little-andaman ================ *Live Webcast of PM Kisan Samman Samaroh Screened in Car Nicobar* *Car Nicobar, Feb 25:* ICAR KVK Nicobar, in collaboration with the District Agriculture Department, organized a program for the live viewing of the 19th instalment release of the PM-KISAN Nidhi scheme and the ‘KISAN Samman Samaroh’ at the community hall in Perka Village, Car Nicobar. More than 80 farmers gathered at the venue to participate in this significant event, aimed at providing financial support and disseminating information about various government agricultural schemes. The Chief Guest of the program, Shri Amit Kale, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Nicobar, officially inaugurated the event. In his address, he emphasized the significance of the PM-KISAN scheme, stating that it is much more than just a financial aid program. He explained that the funds released under this initiative recognize the hard work and dedication of farmers. He further highlighted that the financial assistance helps farmers purchase quality inputs, modern equipment, and improved seeds, all of which are essential for overcoming the challenges of modern agriculture. His remarks underscored the importance of consistent government support in ensuring the success and sustainability of the farming community. As a part of the program, Shri Amit Kale also distributed essential items to the farmers. Dr. Santosh Kumar, Sr Scientist & Head, ICAR-KVK Nicobar, extended a warm welcome to the Chief Guest and all the beneficiaries present. He spoke about the PM-KISAN scheme as a testament to the government's vision of building a self-reliant and prosperous farming community. He reiterated that with the release of the 19th instalment, the government reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the well-being of farmers and fostering a resilient agricultural ecosystem for the future. The village representative, Shri Meshack, encouraged the beneficiaries to actively engage in agricultural activities with the goal of making the island self-reliant in vegetable and fruit production. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Assistant Director, Er. C. Vinod Kumar, who acknowledged the efforts of all those involved in organizing the program and expressed gratitude to the farmers for their enthusiastic participation. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33784-live-webcast-of-pm-kisan-samman-samaroh-screened-in-car-nicobar ================ *Former MP Kuldeep Rai Sharma Wishes Happy Maha Shivratri to the Islanders* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 25:* As the holy occasion of Maha Shivaratri graces our shores, I extend my heartfelt wishes to all the brothers and sisters of the Islands. Maha Shivaratri, a day celebrated with immense devotion and reverence for Lord Shiva, brings with it an opportunity for spiritual reflection, self-purification, and harmony within ourselves and the society. It is a moment to seek the divine blessings of Lord Shiva, the lord of transformation and renewal, to guide us towards peace, prosperity, good health and progress. As we fast, meditate, and pray on this occasion, let us also reflect on the values of discipline, compassion, and integrity that Lord Shiva embodies. May this Maha Shivaratri inspire us all to rise above challenges, embrace new beginnings, and work collectively towards the betterment of our beloved islands. I urge every one of you to celebrate this occasion with mindfulness and gratitude, cherishing the peace and prosperity that Lord Shiva bestows upon us. Together, let us illuminate our hearts with his divine light and strive for the growth and harmony of our Islands. On this blessed night, I wish you and your families good health, happiness, and divine grace. May the blessings of Lord Shiva guide us all towards a brighter and more prosperous future. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33783-former-mp-kuldeep-rai-sharma-wishes-happy-maha-shivratri-to-the-islanders =============== *Disaster Management Conducts Mock Drill on Earthquake and Tsunami at Fisheries Directorate* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 25:* In accordance with the directive of Chief Secretary, A&N Administration to hold quarterly mock drills in each Department, the Directorate of Disaster Management conducted the fifth mock drill in the Directorate of Fisheries today. This drill was conducted by developing real-time earthquake and tsunami simulation scenarios to test the Department's response to a disaster. During the drill, all officials and staff of the Fisheries Department, along with teams from resource Departments (District Administration, A&N Police, Health, Fire, NDRF and Electricity) participated. The Department used the PA system to issue alerts and warnings to all staff. Upon receiving the alert on the earthquake and tsunami, as per the scenario of the mock drill, the staff followed the Duck, Cover & Hold procedure for earthquake safety. After two minutes, they began evacuating towards the identified safe area. The Incident Commander of the Department deployed his teams to immediately communicate with resource Departments (SEOC, DEOC (S/A), Fire, Police, Electricity, Health, etc.) for their support and assistance. The NDRF, fire tenders and ambulance promptly arrived at the mock site for search & rescue operations and the hospitalization of the injured. After completing all steps and activities, the Incident Commander issued an "all-clear message”, calling off the mock drill. Following this, a debriefing session was held at the Fisheries Department with all staff, officials, and resource Department representatives wherein findings and gaps observed during the mock drill were discussed. The Officers from resource Departments were requested to enhance their preparedness levels and provide basic life-saving trainings to all staff and Department teams to ensure an effective response to emergencies. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33782-disaster-management-conducts-mock-drill-on-earthquake-and-tsunami-at-fisheries-directorate ================ *Awareness & Registration Drive for PMMVY Scheme Conducted by SHEW* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 25:* A successful Awareness & Registration Drive for PMMVY Scheme was conducted by the State Hub for Empowerment of Women (SHEW) in collaboration with District PMMVY Staff of South Andaman District at Prothrapur Community Hall. During the drive, the participants were provided with information on the eligibility criteria, benefits, and the application process of the PMMVY scheme. Additionally, the issues faced by participants during the registration process were promptly addressed. A total of 52 participants, including pregnant women, general public and Anganwadi workers of their respective areas participated. This drive is part of an ongoing effort to make these vital services more accessible to vulnerable groups in the community. The general public and pregnant women were informed to obtain further details from their nearest Anganwadi Centers or from Department of Social Welfare. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33781-awareness-registration-drive-for-pmmvy-scheme-conducted-by-shew =============== *SAI Sri Vijay Puram to Organise Fit India Wind Waves & Wellness Event at Corbyn’s* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 25:* Sports Authority of India, STC Sri Vijaya Puram will be organising Fit India Wind Waves & Wellness Event to promote fitness, sports participation and healthy life style. The event will take place at Corbyn’s Cove Beach on 2nd March, 2025 from 07.30 am onwards. The following open to all events will be conducted during the Fit India Wind Waves & Wellness Event at Corbyn’s Cove Beach: -Yoga (Men & Women) -Beach Volleyball (Men & Women) -Tug of war (Men & Women) -Recreational games (Men & Women) In this regard, the interested individuals/teams, private youth clubs & institutions may register their participation in the Office of SAI, STC Sri Vijaya Puram at Netaji Stadium on or before Feb. 28 by 5 pm. For further details or inquiries email at [email protected], Instagram ID: sai.andaman and may contact the following coaches: Shri Manish Kumar Tiwari, Coach (Rowing), Ph.No.9140891676 & 9451005745. Shri Karma Toppo, Coach (K&C), Ph.No. 6297596680 & 9531956474. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33780-sai-sri-vijay-puram-to-organise-fit-india-wind-waves-wellness-event-at-corbyn-s =============== *Weather Warning for A&N Islands* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 25:* Thunderstorm with lightning is likely to occur at one or two places over A&N Islands on Feb. 26. Squally weather with surface wind speed reaching 30-40 kmph gusting to 50 kmph is very likely over Andaman Sea & A&N Islands. Sea condition is likely to be rough. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea along and off Andaman Sea & A&N Islands till Feb. 27. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33779-weather-warning-for-a-n-islands-6 =============== *Bob’s Banter by Robert Clements* *Washing or Kissing Feet..!* As we try to save endangered animals from extinction, there is an endangered species of humans who are fast disappearing, and can hardly ever be found, and that is the servant leader! Ah, the Servant Leader! That mythical creature, once found in abundance, now as rare as an honest politician or a diet that actually works. There was a time when leaders saw themselves as servants of the people, humbly working for the greater good. But today? Oh, today we have the Emperor Leader, the self-crowned, self-serving, self-adoring ruler who believes democracy is just a fancy word for "Do as I say." Once upon a time, the servant leader walked among us, sleeves rolled up, ears open, listening to the grievances of the common folk. He knew the taste of sweat, the value of hard work, and—brace yourself—the meaning of humility. But somewhere along the way, the concept was misplaced. Perhaps it got stuck in traffic on the road to progress or drowned in the sea of political speeches. Today, the term "servant" in leadership is considered an insult. Who wants to serve when you can command? Why lead when you can rule? The modern leader—sorry, the Emperor Leader—believes that leadership is not about service but about self-preservation. He is not there to listen; he is there to be listened to. His words are gospel, his actions beyond question. If questioned, he graciously provides you with two options: agree enthusiastically or disappear mysteriously. The Emperor Leader loves grand speeches about democracy, delivered with the conviction of a street magician selling invisible rabbits. He declares himself a champion of the people while erecting walls—that divide people. But let us not be unfair. The Emperor Leader does work hard—at keeping power, at dodging accountability, at mastering the art of saying much while meaning nothing. His ability to "look concerned" in a crisis while doing absolutely nothing is truly Shakespearean. And the people? Ah, the people! They cheer, they clap, they sing songs of devotion. Some even believe him when he says, "I am one of you." As he jets off to discuss poverty or hug another emperor leader. If only we could take a lesson from the greatest Servant Leader of all—Christ himself. The one who knelt before his followers and washed their feet, demonstrating that true leadership is not about sitting on thrones but about kneeling in service. He did not seek power but sacrificed himself for others. He did not demand loyalty but earned it through love and humility. Until we embrace such a model, we will continue to be ruled by emperors who prefer golden crowns to humble hearts. And so, we wait—perhaps for another leader willing to wash the feet of those he serves instead of demanding they kiss his feet..! *[email protected]* https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/features/33778-washing-or-kissing-feet ==================