*::: 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* 27.02.2025 *EDITOR: DENIS GILES* --------------------------- *PM TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan: Islanders Called Upon to Join as ‘Nikshay Mitras’* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 26:* The Government of India launched the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (PMTBMBA) in September 2022 to foster community participation in providing nutritional assistance to TB patients. Under this initiative, donors, known as ‘Nikshay Mitras’, can include individuals, NGOs, co-operative societies, faith-based organizations, corporates, political parties, and others. A ‘Nikshay Mitra’ can adopt one or more consenting TB patients for a minimum period of six months to provide the required nutritional support. The primary objectives of PMTBMBA are to: -Enhance treatment outcomes for TB patients through additional support. -Engage the community in India's mission to eliminate TB by 2025. -Leverage Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to aid TB patients. Active Participation in the Islands: Senior Officers of the UT Administration have proactively registered as ‘Nikshay Mitras’ and are actively providing nutritional support to TB patients. Additionally, doctors and staff from the Health Department, officials from the District Administration, other line Departments, NGOs, social workers, business community members, and PRI representatives have also joined the initiative. They are distributing food baskets to TB patients to aid their recovery. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO) have pledged to adopt TB patients from the Islands and provide them with necessary nutritional support. Current Outreach and Call for Participation: As of now, 177 TB patients undergoing treatment in the Union Territory are receiving assistance from Nikshay Mitras across all three Districts. Since new TB cases are diagnosed every month, individuals from all walks of life are encouraged to register as ‘Nikshay Mitras’ and extend their support. Those interested in registering as ‘Nikshay Mitras’ can contact 03192-242132 for further details. This initiative not only helps TB patients to recover effectively but also plays a crucial role in achieving the goal of TB elimination from the Islands. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33807-pm-tb-mukt-bharat-abhiyan-islanders-called-upon-to-join-as-nikshay-mitras ============== *Rotary Club of Port Blair Next Gen Launches First Egg Bank in Andaman & Nicobar Islands* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 26:* In a remarkable milestone to celebrate the 120th anniversary of Rotary International, the Rotary Club of Port Blair Next Gen launched its First Egg Bank in Andaman & Nicobar Islands at Seva Niketan Ashram, Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar Islands with the support of Rtn. Dr. Valmiki Hari Kishan, known as the ‘Rotary Egg Man’. The event took place on 25th February, 2025, at 4:00 PM and was graced by the distinguished presence of Rtn. Dr. Krishnendu Gupta, District Governor of Rotary (RID 3291) who was the Chief Guest for the occasion and several other guests. As part of this initiative, 12 trays of eggs were handed over to the Secretary of Seva Niketan Ashram to enhance the nutritional intake of the 54 children residing there. The Rotary Egg Bank is a vital part of Rotary's ongoing commitment to improving the well-being of children and communities across the world. The event was coordinated by Rtn. Mohd. A. Jadwet, President, Rotary Club of Port Blair Next Gen, Rtn. Dakshin Bhasker, Secretary, Rotary Club of Port Blair Next Gen, Rtn. Ayush Kandoi, Treasurer, Rotary Club of Port Blair Next Gen, local dignitaries, Rotarians, as well as community leaders, who all came together to witness this momentous occasion. The Rotary Club’s Egg Bank initiative has already made significant strides across the country and overseas by initiating more than 110 Egg Banks, and the launch of First Egg Bank in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands marks a crucial step forward in the fight against malnutrition and food insecurity. This project serves as a beacon of hope for many children in need of proper nourishment. The Rotary Club remains dedicated to expanding its humanitarian projects, enhancing lives, and strengthening communities with such initiatives. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33806-rotary-club-of-port-blair-next-gen-launches-first-egg-bank-in-andaman-nicobar-islands ================ *State Bank of India’s ATM Formally Inaugurated at Ograbraj Branch* *Ograbraj, Feb 26:* The ATM of State Bank of India (SBI) Ograbraj Branch was officially inaugurated today and is now fully functional for the general public, effective from this afternoon. The inauguration ceremony was graced by Shri. Sidharth Gupta, Regional Manager of State Bank of India, Port Blair, who was accompanied by several key dignitaries, including Shri. Raj, Chief Manager of SBI Port Blair, Shri. Mohd. Safiq Pradhan, Gram Panchayat Mithakhari, Shri. T. Mohd Rafiq, Panchayat Samiti Member of Mithakhari Constituency, Shri. T.P Mohammed Rafique, Sarpanch, Shri. Mohd. Samim, Ward Member Ograbraj-2, Shri. Jalaluddin, Ward Member Ograbraj-5, Smti. Khadeeja, Ward Member Ograbraj-1, along with other village residents. This newly inaugurated ATM facility is set to be a significant boon for the local residents, providing them with easy and convenient access to banking services. During the event, the Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Mithakhari, Shri. Mohd. Safiq, took the opportunity to request the Regional Manager to consider setting up an E-Corner in the ATM room for added convenience. Shri. Sidharth responded positively, assuring the Pradhan that the E-Corner will be established within the next two months. This development reflects Gram Panchayat Mithakhari's PRIs commitment to serving the community and enhancing accessibility to essential services for all. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33805-state-bank-of-india-s-atm-formally-inaugurated-at-ograbraj-branch =============== *Swaraj Dweep Police Seize 1.060 Kg of Illicit Ganja, Arrest One Individual* *Swaraj Dweep, Feb 26:* In a dedicated effort to preserve the pristine beauty and safety of Swaraj Dweep, the Swaraj Dweep police have made a significant move to combat drug-related activities on the island by arresting an individual found in possession of 1.060Kgs of contraband illicit Ganja. On 25/02/2025, credible information was received by the SHO, PS Swaraj Dweep from an informer that a person named Gonesh Dhali R/o Vijay Nagar No.5 was in possession of illicit ganja at his residence. Immediately, a dedicated team comprising of Insp. K Abdul Nasir, SHO PS Swaraj Dweep alongwith SI Rakesh Singh, PCs Suraj Kumar, A.P. Mohd. Asif, Mohd. Sharif, P. M. Abdul Rehman, Rahil R. Bage, CTs Suhas Ch. Mondal, Sumeet Pal, M A Shamsuddin & PC(D) P Jagan of PS Swaraj Dweep and Smti. Lata Hegde Prasad, DFO Swaraj Dweep (Gazetted Officer) reached to the spot in Vijay Nagar No.5, Swaraj Dweep. The team conducted a raid at the specified location and during the operation, they recovered 1.060 Kgs of illicit Ganja from a person namely Gonesh Dhali S/o Late Sudhir Dhali (37) Yrs Fisherman R/o Vijay Nagar No.5, Swaraj Dweep. He was arrested after observing all codal formalities. The entire operation took place under the supervision of Shri Ajay Kumar Rai, DANIPS, SDPO Swaraj Dweep and under the overall direction and supervision of Shri. Rajesh Deo, Sr. Superintendent of Police, South Andaman District. The general public is requested to share/pass information related to illegal activities with police on the following Numbers 112, 03192-236641 and 03192-282405. The identity of the informant will be kept secret. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33804-swaraj-dweep-police-seize-1-060-kg-of-illicit-ganja-arrest-one-individual =============== *Third Phase of Nirankari Mission’s ‘Project Amrit’ ‘Swachh Jal, Swachh Mann’ Launched* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 26:* Under the divine blessings of Her Holiness Satguru Mata Sudiksha Ji Maharaj and Nirankari Rajpita Ramit Ji, the third phase of ‘Project Amrit’ under the theme ‘Swachh Jal, Swachh Mann’ was successfully conducted across 1,600 locations in 900 cities spanning 27 states and union territories of India. Organized by the Sant Nirankari Charitable Foundation, the social service wing of the Sant Nirankari Mission, this large-scale initiative aligns with the teachings of Baba Hardev Singh Ji Maharaj and aims to promote water conservation and cleanliness. Launched in 2023, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, Project Amrit focuses on cleaning and preserving natural water sources such as rivers, lakes, ponds, wells, and springs, while fostering a mindset of water conservation. Building on the success of its first two phases, the third phase was undertaken with a broader and long-term vision to instill awareness and dedication toward environmental responsibility. As part of this initiative, the Sant Nirankari Mission Branch, Shri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) organized a successful cleanliness drive under Project Amrit – Swachh Jal, Swachh Mann on February 23, 2025, at the Beodnabad seashore area in South Andaman. In this campaign, approximately 200 Nirankari volunteers from all three branches of the Nirankari Mission in South Andaman, along with members of the Sewadal, actively participated with dedication, enthusiasm, and humility. The event was further honored by the presence of Shri R. Paramasivam, the Pradhan of Beodnabad Gram Panchayat, South Andaman, who appreciated the Sant Nirankari Mission for selecting his Gram Panchayat for this significant service initiative for the second consecutive year. The Andaman Islands, renowned for their pristine beaches and lush greenery, face significant challenges in maintaining the cleanliness of coastal areas. Project Amrit has taken a crucial step toward addressing this issue. During this cleanliness drive, volunteers diligently collected a large number of empty bottles, non-biodegradable waste, and other debris from the coastal areas and transported them to the designated disposal sites. Project Amrit has emerged as a beacon of hope in the Andaman Islands, spreading awareness about cleanliness and environmental conservation while inspiring society towards a healthier and more sustainable future. As we celebrate the third successful year of this initiative, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to selfless service and making a positive contribution to society. At the conclusion of this day-long campaign, Rev. Satya Narayan Ji, the Sector In-charge of Sector No. 13, Zone 45, Sant Nirankari Mandal, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers and local residents for their selfless service in this noble cause. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33803-third-phase-of-nirankari-mission-s-project-amrit-swachh-jal-swachh-mann-launched ================ *Training Programme on Fruit Cultivation Organized for Nicobari Tribal Farmers* *Hut Bay, Feb 26:* Nutrition is the key to good health; however, the lack of sufficient knowledge among the masses about sources of various nutrients poses threat to the aim of achieving nutritional security. Fruits are also known as protective foods due to their richness in various vitamins, minerals as well as bioactive substances. As our islands are largely dependent on mainland supplies for various fruits, the climate of our islands provides opportunities for cultivation of several tropical fruit species. In order to promote cultivation of locally suited fruit crops among the Nicobari tribal families, a training programme on “Nutritional Security through Fruit Cultivation” was organized on February 22, 2025 at Harminder Bay, Little Andaman. The programme was organized by Dr. Pooja Bohra, Senior Scientist (Fruit Science), ICAR-CIARI, Sri Vijaya Puram. She highlighted the nutritional importance of seasonal fruits being grown in the backyards of the island households. A total of 78 participants including 45 male and 33 female attended the programme. To promote fruit species in kitchen gardening, quality planting material of acerola (the richest source of vitamin C), Surinam cherry, Andaman Kokum, Acid lime and passion fruit was distributed under the Schedule Tribe Component among the participants representing all the 15 tuhets. Further, planting material of guava was also provided to the tribal council for establishing a community fruit garden. Mr. Festus, Secretary, Tribal Council and Mr. Andrew Moses, First Captain expressed gratitude also enthused the participants for taking care of the plants in their kitchen gardens for ensuring the nutritional security of their households. Tribal council also expressed their gratitude to ICAR-CIARI for the technical support and distribution of quality planting material- the most important input in farming. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33802-training-programme-on-fruit-cultivation-organized-for-nicobari-tribal-farmers =============== *Clinical Research Unit (Homeopathy) Organises Pharmacovigilance Program in Homeopathy at PHC Bambooflat* *Bambooflat, Feb. 26:* In a pivotal effort to enhance patient safety, the Clinical Research Unit (Homoeopathy) recently organized a comprehensive Pharmacovigilance program in Homeopathy at PHC Bambooflat yesterday. The program was conducted in collaboration with the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and Medical Officer (MO) of the PHC to raise awareness among healthcare professionals and patients about the critical role of pharmacovigilance in homeopathic treatments. The session was conducted by Dr. Namita Gopal, JRF (H), an expert in pharmacovigilance, who emphasized the critical role of this field in detecting, assessing, understanding, and preventing adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and other drug-related concerns. The program's objective was to ensure that both healthcare professionals and patients understand the importance of monitoring homeopathic treatments, swiftly identifying any adverse reactions, and reporting them without delay. The program also underscored the importance of healthcare professionals understanding the symptoms of ADRs and knowing how to manage cases when adverse reactions are suspected. By fostering a collaborative approach to monitoring and reporting, the program aimed to enhance the overall safety of homeopathic treatments for patients, ensuring a responsible and effective healthcare experience. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33801-clinical-research-unit-homeopathy-organises-pharmacovigilance-program-in-homeopathy-at-phc-bambooflat =============== *Mock Drill on Earthquake, Fire and Tsunami Conducted in Directorate of Transport* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 26:* As per the directive from the Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, to conduct quarterly mock drills in every Department, the Directorate of Disaster Management, A&N Administration conducted the Sixth Mock Drill in the Directorate of Transport, A&N Administration today. This exercise involved real-time earthquake, Fire and Tsunami simulation scenarios to assess the Department's disaster response capabilities. Shri Jatinder Sohal, Director (Transport), A&N Administration along with 110 Officials and staff actively participated in the Drill. The resource teams from District Administration, A&N Police, Health, Fire, and Electricity supported the Department for successfully completion of the drill. The Drill started at 1100 Hrs. as per drill scenario on Earthquake felt and received tsunami warning. Accordingly, the Team of Department through PA system advised the employees to adhere to the Duck, Cover & Hold technique for earthquake safety and after that blew fire alarm for safe evacuation from office building to designated assembly point. At the assembly point, the Director (Transport), as the Incident Commander, issued directions to all departmental teams to immediately communicate with SEOC, DEOC (S/A), Fire, Police, Electricity, and Health Departments for their support, initiate search and rescue operations for missing officials, and provide immediate first aid to the injured. The resource Departments arrived at the Transport Department and joined the departmental teams in search and rescue operations and first aid. The fire tender extinguished the fire scenario of the drill and ambulances transported the injured persons to the hospital. The Electricity Department restored power supply after receiving the "All Clear Message” from the Incident Commander. The drill was called off at 1145 hrs, followed by a debriefing session at the Transport Department with the staff, officials, and representatives from resource Departments. During the session, Director (Transport) appreciated the efforts of all teams and Departments for their support in the drill. He also emphasized the importance of conducting such drills regularly to strengthen the disaster management capacity of the Transport Department. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33800-mock-drill-on-earthquake-fire-and-tsunami-conducted-in-directorate-of-transport =============== *Awareness Programme on PM Vishwakarma Scheme Organised at Hut Bay* *Hut Bay, Feb. 26:* Branch MSME-Development & Facilitation Office (Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Government of India), Sri Vijaya Puram organized an ‘awareness programme on PM Vishwakarma Scheme’ today in the Conference Hall of Panchayat Samiti Bhawan, Hut Bay (Little Andaman), in coordination with A&N Administration. The event was attended by Shri Belthazer, BDO, CD Block Office, Little Andaman, Shri Raja, Up-Pramukh, Little Andaman, Shri Rakesh, Representative, Rural Department, Shri Liyakat Ali, Representative, Industries Department, Little Andaman and Gram Pradhans of Little Andaman. A detailed presentation on PM Vishwakarma Scheme and various MSME schemes were delivered by Shri G.K. Sinha, Assistant Director In-charge. The objective of the programme was to increase outreach and enrolments of potential beneficiaries under the PM Vishwakarma scheme specially in the region where there is low enrolments of specific trades, despite the presence of prospective beneficiaries. Also, to create awareness among the existing beneficiaries about the process of availing various benefits under the PM Vishwakarma scheme. The programme concluded with an interactive question & answer session followed by vote of thanks. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33799-awareness-programme-on-pm-vishwakarma-scheme-organised-at-hut-bay =============== *ZSI to Organise Science Academics Lecture Workshop on Recent Advances in Biodiversity of A&N Islands* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 26:* Zoological Survey of India, Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre is conducting a two-day Science Academics lecture workshop on Recent Advances in Biodiversity of Andaman & Nicobar Islands during 27th & 28th February 2025 sponsored by the Indian Academy of Sciences, Bengaluru; Indian National Science Academy, New Delhi & The National Academy of Sciences, India, Prayagraj. This lecture workshop will be attended by 110 Lecturers, Teachers and students from different Institution, Colleges and Schools from South Andaman. The two-day lecture workshop includes class rooms teaching on recent advances in biodiversity of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Shri. Ravi Horo, IFS, Additional PCCF (Planning & Development), Department of Environment & Forests will inaugurate the workshop as Chief Guest, besides Prof. (Dr.) M. Sanjappa, Former Director, Botanical Survey of India & INSA Senior Scientist, Bengaluru; Prof. (Dr.) K.R. Shivanna, Former Head, Department of Botany, University of Delhi, INSA Honorary Scientist as special guests. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33798-zsi-to-organise-science-academics-lecture-workshop-on-recent-advances-in-biodiversity-of-a-n-islands =============== *1st National Lok Adalat of 2025 to be Organised on March 8* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 26:* The 1st National Lok Adalat of 2025 is scheduled to be organized by High Court Legal Services Committee, Circuit Bench of Calcutta High Court, Port Blair on Saturday, the 8th March, 2025 at 10.30 a.m. in the Circuit Bench of Calcutta High Court premises, Port Blair to facilitate settlement of cases pending in the High Court, Calcutta including prelitigation matters likely to be filed before the High Court, Circuit Bench of Calcutta High Court at Port Blair by and amongst the parties thereto through ADR mechanism. All concerned have been informed that applications, submitted jointly by parties and / or their Learned Advocates interested in getting their cases / matters settled before the National Lok Adalat would be received up to 5 pm on Feb. 28 at the Office of the HCLSC, Circuit Bench of Calcutta High Court Complex, Port Blair. Such applications can also be mailed to this Office at [email protected] by the aforesaid date. The applications received after the aforesaid deadline, would be considered for the next Lok Adalat keeping in view the time taken to requisition the case records from the respective Departments, as well as for finalization of the Benches and the respective cause-lists. Further it is informed that no reconstruction of file will be entertained if, case record is not available before the Lok Adalat Bench and Cause List of this Lok Adalat will be prepared on the basis of availability of case records only. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33797-1st-national-lok-adalat-of-2025-to-be-organised-on-march-8 =============== *Departure Time of MV Hut Bay to Swaraj Dweep Altered* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 26:* Due to administrative reasons, the scheduled departure time of the vessel MV Hut Bay to Swaraj Dweep on Feb. 28 at 1130 hrs from Sri Vijaya Puram has been preponed. Now the vessel MV Hut Bay will sail for Swaraj Dweep at 1100 hrs instead of 1130 hrs on Feb. 28 from Phoenix Bay Jetty. Passengers have been advised to avail the sailing as per the revised timing. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33796-departure-time-of-mv-hut-bay-to-swaraj-dweep-altered ================ *RBI Alerts Citizens Not to Fall Prey to Misleading Campaigns* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 26:* The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has noticed certain misleading advertisements enticing borrowers by offering loan waivers. These entities seem to be actively promoting many such campaigns in the print media as well as social media platforms. There are reports of such entities charging a service/legal fee for issuing 'debt waiver certificates' without any authority. It has also come to the notice that in certain locations, campaigns are being run by a few persons, which undermine the efforts of Banks in enforcing their rights over the securities charged to the Banks. Such entities are misrepresenting that dues to financial institutions including banks need not be repaid. Such activities undermine the stability of financial institutions and, above all, the interest of the depositors. It may also be noted that associating with such entities can result in direct financial losses. Members of the public have been cautioned not to fall prey to such false and misleading campaigns and report such incidents to law enforcement agencies as under: Cyber Crime complaint Portal (1930), cybercrime.gov.in, [email protected]. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33795-rbi-alerts-citizens-not-to-fall-prey-to-misleading-campaigns ============== *CBSE’s Draft Policy/ Scheme for Conduct of Two Examinations in Class X Open for Feedback* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 26:* As per communication received from Controller of Examination, CBSE, New Delhi vide No. CBSE/CE/SPPS/2025 dated 25.02.2025, CBSE has developed a Draft Policy/Scheme for conduct of two Board Examination in Class X from 2025-26 in accordance with National Education Policy,2020. The same is available in the CBSE website https://cbse.gov.in for seeking responses from all stakeholders i.e. Schools, teachers, parents, students and other (General Public etc.). All stakeholders have been requested to go through the Draft Policy/Scheme for Two Examinations of Class X from 2025-26 and furnish the feedback / suggestion /if any, by visiting CBSE Website https://www.cbse.gov.in latest by 09.03.2025. After receiving the feedback from the stakeholders, CBSE will review the Two Board Examination policy for Class X from 2025-26 and finalize accordingly. Further Examinations- Bye-Laws will also be amended. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33794-cbse-s-draft-policy-scheme-for-conduct-of-two-examinations-in-class-x-open-for-feedback ================ *SBI-RSETI to Conduct Free Beauty Parlour & Women’s Tailoring Course for Unemployed Women* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 26:* State Bank of India, Rural Self Employment Training Institute (SBI-RSETI), Sri Vijaya Puram is going to conduct free Beauty Parlour & Women’s Tailoring course for unemployed women of A&N Islands and will issue the Course Certificate. Training programme will be conducted by SBI RSETI under the guidelines of Ministry of Rural Development. BPL (Below Poverty Line) and Self Help Groups (SHGs) will be given preference. Interested and prospective candidates have been advised to bring the necessary qualification documents between 10 am to 5 pm at SBI - RSETI, 2nd floor, SBI Regional Business Office, SBI Complex, Mohanpura, Aberdeen Bazaar. For further details, one may contact over phone no. - 03192236723 /9474291495 /9933215939 /9474217857. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33793-sbi-rseti-to-conduct-free-beauty-parlour-women-s-tailoring-course-for-unemployed-women ================ *Dead Body Preserved at GB Pant’s Mortuary for Claims* *Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 26:* A male patient namely Shri Ravi Nair aged about 68 years has expired on 18-02-2025 at GB Pant Hospital. The body of the deceased is kept in the Cold Mortuary of the G B Pant Hospital, Sri Vijaya Puram. No relatives or persons known to him have come forward to claim the dead body till date. The general public/NGO’s/relatives of the deceased may come forward to claim the dead body. If no person/relatives come forward to claim the aforesaid dead body within 07 days from the date of publication of this press release, the Medical Superintendent, G. B. Pant Hospital, Sri Vijaya Puram shall have the liberty to dispose of the aforesaid dead body without any further notice. https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/33792-dead-body-preserved-at-gb-pant-s-mortuary-for-claims ================ *Squally Weather Likely, Fishers Cautioned* *Sri Vijaya Puram, 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/33791-squally-weather-likely-fishers-cautioned ================= *Bob’s Banter by Robert Clements* *Oh, Happy Day Tony...!* Some people sing a song, and some people live it. Tony David did both. If you ever had the privilege of hearing him sing Oh Happy Day, you would have closed your eyes, felt his voice and the music seep into your soul, and, for a moment, believed you were in heaven itself. But if you had the privilege of knowing Tony and many of us did, whether singing under him, or with him or listening to him, you wouldn’t need to close your eyes—you’d know you were already in the presence of something divine. Tony, part of the Gatt Quartet from Chennai, didn’t just sing the solo part of Oh Happy Day—he lived it. Every day, for him, was a happy day. Not because life was perfect, not because there were no troubles, but because he knew—deep in his heart—that, as the song says, Jesus washed his sins away. You couldn’t be sad around Tony. It was impossible. He had a way of making even the grumpiest person crack a smile, the most serious person chuckle, and the most lost soul feel found. His tenor voice was powerful, but his heart—oh, his heart—was even more so. He didn’t need a microphone to spread joy; his very presence was enough. I remember once meeting him at an event where he had just performed. I told him, “Tony, that song of yours—every time you sing it, I feel like I should be repenting for something.” Tony laughed, his hearty laughter shaking the air around us. “Good,” he said. “Means it’s working!” And that was Tony. Never one to take himself too seriously, but always serious about the joy he spread. Yesterday, Tony passed away. But can we really say someone like him is gone? No, I don’t think so. People like Tony don’t just vanish into the pages of history. They remain—etched in the laughter they leave behind, in the music that still plays in our hearts, and in the faith, they lived so effortlessly. His voice may be silent, but his song will never end. As we say goodbye, let’s not mourn him with sadness but celebrate him with the same happiness he gave to the world. Let’s remember him not with tears but with the kind of laughter he would have wanted. So, Tony, my dear friend, this one’s for you, from each of us, whose lives you touched: Oh happy day, oh happy day, when Jesus washed our sins away! You sang it, you lived it, and now, we have no doubt—you are living it in eternity. Rest well, dear friend. You were a melody we will never forget...! *[email protected]* https://andamanchronicle.net/index.php/features/33790-oh-happy-day-tony ==================