I am For Medical College, But Have Reasons to Lack Confidence: Bishnu

I am For Medical College, But Have Reasons to Lack Confidence: Bishnu

The Member of Parliament Bishnu Pada Ray today clarified his stand on the proposed Medical College and said that he never mentioned that the Medical College should be closed down and open PG College. He also said that the MD of AIMS, Dr. Prem Nair also did not say anything against the Medical College.

Bishnu was addressing the media over the controversy involving him. He expressed happiness about people’s participation in this critical issue, which he believes is a beginning and very good sign for any development.

“Politicians and Administration, if not criticized, they will not look back to correct themselves,” he opined.

Slamming the media reports, he said, “A wrong message has somehow been spread by my ill wishers that MP is against opening of MBBS College in Port Blair, which is absolutely an incorrect message. “I have never said that MBBS College should be closed down and open PG College nor Dr. Prem Nair had ever said.”

He also cleared his name and said that there was no such proposal to favour Amrita Institute as is being spread.

“Everybody knows that no institution can be selected on nomination basis in the Govt. system and rules. I am an open book and there is no hidden agenda or any black spot so far,” Bishnu added.

However, Bishnu once again drew attention towards the merits of PG course over UG course.

“Looking at the complex requirement of the UG courses compared to PG courses, which is comparably lesser complex, I had a justified reason to advocate for PG course to start with,” he said.

He also listed steps taken by him to ensure availability of immediate specialists’ treatment at Port Blair

“I had written a letter on 29th Oct. 2013 to Hon’ble Lt. Governor to immediately start PG Courses in Medicine and Surgery with various Super Specialty Hospital Services like Cardiology – Heart Diseases, Gastroenterology- Gastric/ lever transplantation problems, Nephrology – Super Specialty in Kidney treatment, Oncology – Super Specialty in cancer treatment, Neurology – Super Specialty in brain, nerves, etc, Cardio-vascular and Thoracic Surgery, Neurosurgery, Gastrointestinal Surgery, Urology – Urine, Bladder,” he added.

He further said that he had requested the Administration in view of large number of such cases being detected for which there is no specialized treatment available at Port Blair. Starting of these courses will immediately bring in specialists who can render immediate treatment to Islanders in case of stroke, heart blockage, kidney failure, cancer, liver diseases, mother and child care, digestion issues, etc. abundant in Islands. At the same time the local students will get admission in those PG cases, who in turn can serve the Islands.

He also gave the example of PGI Chandigarh which has established PG Courses on the same lines.

Bishnu said that the Lt. Governor acknowledging his letter had informed that he has recently taken a review of the complete health services and given necessary instructions to fill in the existing gaps. LG also replied that detailed proposals are being worked out by Principal Secretary (Health).

Bishnu, however, mentioned that though he had written to the Lieutenant Governor about the issue, nothing has so far been done on his suggestions.

Citing various deficiencies of the Administration, he said, “The Administration could not fill up 38 posts of Medical Specialists for the past 20 years, I had reasons to lack confidence, as the UG courses require as much as 244 faculties. The requirement of faculty for PG courses being only 30, and tapping the resources in PPP mode would be much easier compared to 244 faculties required for UG course.”

Taking a jibe on a recent interview given to the press by the Director of Health Services regarding tapping of faculty from the Defence, CHS and Private sectors, and the response the Administration got, Bishnu said, “I have gone through a CAG observation under the caption, “Critical Shortage of doctors in defence hospitals”, which says the defence hospitals had a deficiency of 298 specialist doctors in armed forces against the authorized strength of 2217.”

“When there is shortage in defence itself, how the Administration will get faculty support from defence?” he questioned.

Bishnu further mentioned some of the recent issues that compelled him to pro-actively intervene in the issue and to impress upon the need for a conscious decision.

He cited the examples of nine Medical Colleges in Maharashtra State which had to give up 500 out of total 2100 MBBS Seats due to lack of infrastructure and shortage of Faculty Members. Nearly 1000 staffers are vacant as reported by newspaper “Mumbai Mirror” on 21.08.2014.

He also mentioned about the minutes of the Executive Committee meeting of Medical Council of India dated 14.03.2014, which indicated shortage of infrastructure and faculties in a number of colleges that may lead to scaling down the seats or even suspension.

Citing a Press Information Bureau report dated 8.8.2014 regarding periodical assessment carried out by the Medical Council for grant of permission to admit students, he said that MCI has not recommended maximum number of cases due to shortcomings as mentioned in the report emerged from the reply to a Parliament question by Health Minister.

He also delved in depth about the financial implication and said that the infrastructure requirement for UG courses is massive worth Rs. 500 Crores approx. compared to minimum infrastructure required for PG course worth Rs. 40 Crores approx. Similarly, the recurring expenditure on operation of UG College is worked out to be Rs. 109 Crores and Rs. 38 Crores only for PG College.

He questioned the logic of shifting from PPP mode to Society run Medical College and explained that the High Court had passed an order in 2005 to start Medical College and a consultant M/s HSCC (I) Ltd. was appointed at a cost of Rs. 1.75 Crores, which in 2010 submitted its report recommending establishment of Medical College in PPP Mode.

Bishnu added, “The 12th Standing Committee on IDA discussed regarding establishment of MBBS College in PPP mode and was approved by the Prime Minister in the 13th Meeting of IDA on 15.07.2011. The Union Health Minister had also conveyed approval for opening the college in PPP mode on 26.02.2013.”

He blamed the lower level officers for reversing the order and said, “The Proposal to open college in PPP mode was reversed by lower level officers on 6.8.2013 and took a decision by them to establish the college through a Govt. Society.”

He also highlighted certain failures on the part of Administration especially the inability to fill up 38 posts of specialists for the past many years, delay in filling up of regular 30 GDMO posts, delay in finalization of under-sea OFC cable project, cancellation of the sewerage treatment project, delay in finalization of the project for construction of bridges across creeks in ATR, poor maintenance of National Highway and ATR, delay in implementation of PMGSY roads, delay in execution of NRDWP projects and closure of Forest Plantation Development Corporation.

He categorically targeted ANIIDCO and said that without IMFL, the Corporation is a total failure. He also lauded Lakshadweep Development Corporation Limited and said that they are doing much better compared to ANIIDCO.

He also blamed the Administration for delay in creation of National Highway Circle and dedicated Water Circle.

Bishnu said that the growth rate of Islands as reported in the Planning Commission’s report is just 0.98%.

He drew attention towards the corpus fund of Rs 43 Crores lying with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and said that the Administration is unaware of the cess money lying unutilized.

Bishnu said that there has been significant delay in creation of 38 posts of ITI, 628 posts of Transport Department, 71 posts of higher education, 481 posts of Police Department, 20 posts of Shipping Department, 22 posts of Health Department, 73 posts of Official Language Wing, 140 posts of Disaster Management and 4 posts of Civil Aviation Department.

The Member of Parliament told the media that he had discussed the issue of Medical College with the Administration at length and with some of premier institutions like AIMS and finally gave many suggestions to the Administration.

He advised the Administration to immediately float an Expression of Interest (EOI) for engagement of faculties and assess the response and suggested that the investment on infrastructure may be restricted till such time adequacy of faculty is assessed, so as to avoid wasteful expenditure.

He also suggested simultaneously preparing a contingent plan for establishment of Post Graduate College, which does not require much of infrastructure or faculty. In case the Administration did not find required response for UG Course, the Administration will have the option to begin with the PG course.

“The Administration may also invite reputed Medical Institutions for a preliminary discussion to explore viability of PPP mode as has been done by Odisha Government in Rayagada and Gajapati Districts,” he suggested.

He once again reiterated his view and said, “I am fully in favour of establishment of Medical College. My only concern is that it should not be a failure and Govt. money should not be wasted. The much desired Super Specialty Health Care facility should reach the Islands at the earliest and the people and students of the Island should get 100% benefit of the project.”

Bishnu said that he along with the senior officers of the Administration will meet the Union Minister of Health Dr. Harshavardhan on 28th of this month to reach some conclusion on the issue.

Bishnu Pada Ray reminded the Islanders that he is an elected servant of the Islanders. “I think and battle only for development of the Islands and common cause,” he concluded.

Medical College Row: When Cure Becomes Disease!

Medical College Row:

When Cure Becomes Disease!

By Zubair Ahmed

Santa and Banta bid to build a medical college. Both of them started constructing it from opposite directions. When a man asked, whether both the building will meet in the centre, Santa lightly said, “If it meets you will have one great Medical College, and if it doesn’t you will be lucky to have two medical colleges!”

Jokes apart, Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament is now on a mission mode to garner public opinion using various forums to press upon his idea of having a PG Medical Programme in the Islands instead of a MBBS College as proposed by the Administration and vigorously followed up by the Lieutenant Governor.

Keeping in mind, the temperament of Bishnu Pada Ray, it was quite obvious and natural that fissures would start to appear in the relations between him and the Administrator in due course. But, it has dawned too early and quite openly.

The Medical College is not a new idea. It was there for the last five years. Land was allotted in 2012. A major poll plank during last elections appearing in the promises of all candidates, Bishnu was all praises for the initiative and had put it as an achievement in his manifesto too. So, what went wrong suddenly that he had to take a major shift from his earlier position?

No one in the Islands would have opposed setting up of an institution of higher studies, especially a medical college per se. The Islanders had earlier welcomed an engineering college started in the polytechnic campus. They had welcomed ANCOL in a school campus too. It’s truly a positive step that the Islands will have a medical college along with an engineering college.

Then why is there a section who is murmuring against the proposed medical college?

It was Lt Governor A K Singh, who for the first time offered the medical college as a panacea for shortage of specialists in the Islands, a quite difficult concept to digest. We did not start an engineering college, to overcome shortage of engineers in the Islands. An educational institution in the Islands is always good for the local population to pursue higher education without moving out to mainland. It’s a sign of development too.

But, Medical College wasn’t the solution to overcome the scarcity of specialists in the Islands. That could have been solved using other options. How many of us ever bother about the exodus of good doctors from GB Pant Hospital? We have lost good pediatric surgeons, ophthalmologists, gynecologists and many others. Was it just the lure to earn more outside which made them quit? Obviously, the administration needs to rethink about the suffocating administrative setup that governs our healthcare system.

Why doesn’t the Administration think about recruiting MBBS doctors and sending them for specialization from reputed institutions in the mainland? We have examples of serving doctors upgrading themselves and coming back and serving at GB Pant Hospital. How many specialists would we need? It’s a miniscule number.

Both the options – a UG programme, as recommended by the Administration and a PG programme, as wished by the Member of Parliament seems to be not the solution they are looking for.

No doubt, realization of the dream called the Medical College would add a feather on the cap of the Administrator. And, his overwhelming enthusiasm to achieve the target had ushered a new hope among the Islanders. The college would have been a boon for the Islanders in many ways, but it won’t be a solution to the immediate problem at hand.

The idea of PG programme by AIMS as advocated by the MP might be made to look very innocuous, and a sacred service, but reading between the lines exposes many other dimensions. He as a devotee and disciple of Amritanandamayi, had always wanted Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS) to play a major role in the healthcare sector in the Islands. And, its too obvious now that with BJP Govt at Centre, and the clout AIMS enjoys in the Ministry, they could pull the strings and get things done.

The presentation by Prem Nair, MD, AIMS was mostly unconvincing. He had referred to the unfeasibility of a MBBS college on the basis of small population. If they are vouching for PG courses in the Islands itself, it has to be made clear whether it would be a regular institution or a temporary one, churning out specialists every two years? If they are offering a solution for the Islands, how many specialists would the Islands need? He had mentioned that the Islands would hardly require 10-12 specialization courses. Is it sustainable in the long run?

Nair tried to convince that they will put all efforts at Ministry to increase the number of MBBS seats allocation for the Islands. In fact, since last three years, the Ministry has been reducing the number of MBBS seats.

It wasn’t difficult to read between the lines. A PG programme on PPP mode would do wonders for anyone, may it be AIMS, Adani or Ambani.

Bishnu Pada Ray is desperately trying to project a larger than life image of him. By going against the Lieutenant Governor, he is sending a clear message that the ego-massage the Administrator does is not going to work, and would continue with his own ways.

As mentioned in an article soon after the 100 days of LG A K Singh, it is quite obvious that the formidable challenge for the Lieutenant Governor in the coming months would be Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament.

Moreover, BJP is right now in different boats. In quarry issue, the party stand remained divided. And, the conspicuous absence of the party leadership and a major chunk of party workers from the presentation on PG course yesterday once again manifested, how things are going to unfold in near future.

As mentioned earlier, if the priorities of the Administrator and the Member of Parliament are different for the same territory, loads of fireworks can be expected henceforth. Whether, the Islands will have a PG course or a MBBS course is a different matter, but it’s clear that whatever happens will not happen in near future.

AIMS Suggests Medical PG Courses Instead of MBBS College

AIMS Suggests Medical PG Courses Instead of MBBS College

To overcome the shortage of health care specialists in the Islands, Prem Nair, MD, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Kochi suggested that it would be wise to commence PG Courses instead of going for a MBBS College.

Giving a presentation on the benefits of having PG Courses in the Islands, Prem Nair said that it would be cost-effective and will also help overcome the shortage of specialists. He was speaking to a gathering at the Chinmaya Mission, Port Blair.  

“We have been coming to the Islands for almost a decade now to serve the Islanders. We are honoured for this opportunity provided,” he said.

He observed that some of the health care requirements are not available at G.B. Pant Hospital. The Islands are far away from the mainland and so acute medical care needs should be addressed in the Islands itself, he explained.

“Infectious diseases are not a major concern today. But specialized treatment is required for diseases relating to heart, kidney etc. which are increasing manifold,” he said.

“We have given a presentation to the Administration on the need for specialised health care facilities in the Islands. Our first recommendation to the Administration was to immediately provide Acute Medical Care facilities at the GB Pant itself and to get specialists in 8-10 specialities at least. This can be started immediately,” he said.

“We have also suggested initiating a Post Graduate Medical course in the Islands as second phase towards improving the health care facilities. In this case, the students who come for PG Courses will be able to provide specialised treatment too. This would incur much lesser cost to the exchequer”, Nair said.

“Starting a MBBS programme is a very complicated and costly affair”, the MD of AIMS cleared. On the other hand, for Speciality Programme, mere Rs. 12-14 Crore would be required apart from adding a few equipments. The rest is already available at G.B. Pant Hospital. Moreover, starting a MBBS programme would require at least 300 faculties to join and stay in the Islands for a long time," he said.

“It is our recommendation to plan a PG Programme, which will be able to take care of the immediate medical emergencies.”

As far as MBBS seat for the Islands’ students is concerned, we can work with the Govt. of India to increase the number of seats being allotted presently. “I suggest this because the cost of medical surgical care is very low compared to the cost involved in setting up a medical college. The amount of Rs. 500 Crore for set aside for starting a MBBS Programme can be used as corpus to further improve the health care standards in the Islands,” Nair suggested.

The MD of AIMS also appealed to the administration to look into the suggestion in a different way. “We will not neglect the children of the Islands but will help them by fighting with the Govt. of India to increase the number of seats,” he stressed.

He further opined that the MBBS Course is not feasible for the Islands as the quality will suffer as the population of the Islands is less and is not sufficient to train the doctors efficiently in the long run.  

Addressing the gathering, Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament added that the project of medical college costing Rs. 500 Crores, was initially to be implemented in PPP mode, as was decided by the Administration.

Questioning the present decision of the Administration to set up Medical College through a society, he asked why the Administration shelved the idea of PPP mode. He also alleged that ANIIDCO and SOVTEC have failed miserably in executing projects like Under Sea Optical Fibre Cable.

Bishnu Takes On ANI Admn for Delaying Projects

Bishnu Takes On ANI Admn for Delaying Projects

Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament today lambasted the Andaman and Nicobar Administration for derailing and delaying many major projects. He was speaking to the media on the sidelines of a presentation by Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Kochi for suggesting the Administration to start Medical PG courses instead of going for a MBBS college in the Islands.

Bishnu said that the undersea cable project, which was the brainchild of previous NDA and UPA governments got entangled in many controversies and now fresh DPR is being prepared. He said that the new cable will directly connect Chennai with Port Blair at a higher cost and will not cover Islands like Kamorta and Campbell Bay. “The new project will take more than four years now,” he said.

Bishnu also said that Andaman Forest Corporation was on the verge of closure due to wrong move of the Administration. He also dealt on the issue of widening of the Andaman Trunk Road, the National Highway connecting Port Blair with Diglipur. He said that the project was put on backburner for more than 10 years. “After my meeting with Mr Nitin Gadkari, we have salvaged the project now,” he said. “When I retrieved the file, I could see that the width was reduced to 5.5 mtrs from 7 mtrs. I convinced the Prime Minister, and now two bridges will also come up and the amount of Rs 1040 crores has been also sanctioned,” Bishnu added.

“Every year, our Islands get Cess charges in petrol and diesel to the tune of Rs 5.5 crores. In the last seven years, an amount of Rs 43 crores is lying with the Administration. The money should have been used by APWD to maintain the road,” Bishnu alleged.

"There were funds for many schemes like drinking water and PMGRY which the Administration could not obtain from the Centre,” he said. On the project for sewerage plant proposed during the tenure of Vivek Rae, Chief Secretary, Bishnu said that the Detailed Project Report was prepared by WAPCOS and submitted to Ministry of Urban Development. He said that the DPR prepared by WAPCOS was erroneous and ultimately the project costing Rs 335 crores was shelved.

Kalidas and Khalid: What is the Cost of Life?

Kalidas and Khalid:

What is the Cost of Life?

By Zubair Ahmed

During the Independence Day Celebrations, two faces stood out in the crowd, in contrast, at the main function at Netaji Stadium as well as ‘At Home’ function at Raj Niwas. The widow and child of Late C Kalidas, the killed forester and K Khalid, a severely burnt employee of Electricity Dept. Both the victims were awarded the LG’s commendation certificate.

 A look into the eyes of the widow and child of C Kalidas would bring tears into your eyes. She stood there staring into the blankness. The dry and pale look, aghast and lost amidst celebrations, there was nothing for them to be happy or proud about. She had lost her husband, who was in his prime. The child could never comprehend the happenings around her.

K Khalid, who had sustained severe burn injuries while working on power transmission line, had his hands wrapped in a cloth and the marring accident has literally left his body, scarred for life.

Isn’t it a quirk of fate that both of them were in fact victims of someone’s negligence? Orders for enquiry might have been issued in both cases, but there are many vital questions that remain oblivious.

Had the young forester been properly briefed about the cost, he will have to pay, while facing an elephant that was beyond control? Had he known the fate, would he have taken the move to confront the elephant so naively? Or, was he just following an order from someone, for whom any result was inconsequential?

There had been enough uproar over the death of the forester as well as the elephant. In fact, both the forester and elephant were victims of some callous mind.

The killing of the elephant invited so much flak in the media as well as social media that the loss of the forester conveniently took a backseat. It was felt that this will be also forgiven and forgotten as time passes.

Who killed the elephant? Was it the rifle or the person pulling the trigger or someone with authority who ordered to kill it?

Who killed Kalidas? Was it the musth elephant or someone who hastily pushed the naïve forester into the clutches of the elephant?

Like the elephant was ruthlessly killed, Kalidas too became a victim of someone of same mindset, who knew quite well that there won’t be any damaging repercussion.

An order for enquiry has been issued. And, isn’t it quite intriguing that the PCCF (Wildlife) has been entrusted the job? Doesn’t transparency demand that an independent enquiry be ordered?

If someone justifies killing of the elephant, justice demands that they should also take the responsibility for the death of the forester.

K Khalid, a mazdoor of Eectricity Dept sustained severe burn injuries when a reckless co-worker charged the transformer, he was working on. He had to battle against all odds to survive the physical and mental trauma.

What was the role of the Junior Engineer or Asst Engineer? Aren’t they responsible or accountable for the accident? Has the Department taken any action?

Undeniably, the Department is an orphaned entity without any accountability towards service or its employees. There are no protocols or safety measures followed. Cases of fatality on duty in Electricity Department have become a routine fare.

There have been talks, talks and more talks about actions to be taken. No one has heard about any tangible outcome of enquiries ordered by the authorities. It’s time they walk the talk and ensure that accidents due to recklessness or decisions taken devoid of serious thought are not spared. And, we can’t keep learning lessons endlessly without putting into practice what we have learnt. Fixing responsibility and prompt action against the culprits will only serve as deterrent.

It’s heartening that this year both the victims were awarded with the Commendation Certificate, along with other genuine awardees. Or else, it had become a mockery with anyone having an access to the cook or sentry of Raj Niwas to manage a commendation.

A touch of sympathy might help heal the wound. But, nothing can bring back what they have lost. At least, a responsive Administration should deliver justice and it needs to be seen doing it.

Committed to Overcome All Challenges: Lt Gen A K Singh

Committed to Overcome All Challenges: Lt Gen A K Singh

LG Addresses Islanders on Independence Day Eve

Reminiscing the sacrifices of the Freedom Fighters and Founding Fathers of the nation, the Lieutenant Governor A K Singh greeted the Islanders on the occasion of 68th Independence Day and called upon the Islanders to rededicate themselves in nation building and work in tandem to overcome the challenges ahead. He expressed happiness over the journey of one year and took a firm oath to continue the good work.

He dealt on various aspects and achievements in the past one year and the developmental activities taken in all sectors.

On strides in communication sector, the Lieutenant reiterated his commitment and said that on short term, steps have been taken to enhance the bandwidth. He also said that the Administration is committed to complete the undersea fibre-optic cable in the coming years.

Addressing the issues in education sector the LG said that the Administration was keen to overcome the shortage of seats in higher studies in the islands. A new college was the only solution as it had been 24 years since the last educational institution for higher studies had come up in the Islands.

"With the commendable increase in the overall pass percentage in CBSE  throughout the Islands, especially in the Nicobar District which achieved 74.69%, the new college ANCOL, which started functioning from July this year is a boon for the Islanders," he said.

"There were wide apprehensions about the 422 vacancies for teachers announced. Its quite heartening that out of the total 248 seats, 90% percent has gone to the local candidates," the LG mentioned.

Moreover, another 150 new teaching posts has been created. He also said that for Andaman College, approval of 41 new posts is on the anvil.

On poor connectivity in the Islands, the Lt. Governor AK Singh said that 24th July 2014 will be a memorable day for the Islanders as Administration commenced a new chartered flight service between Car Nicobar and Port Blair connecting the farthest district with the rest of the country. It will be of immense help for government servants, defence personnel and Islanders. The fare is also kept nominal at Rs 1500 one way. And it’s a matter of happiness that the flights are going full capacity.

“Moreover, we are on talks with Alliance Air to start a similar service between Port Blair and Vizag, which has remained an old demand” the LG said.

 “We have also added an additional helicopter in the existing fleet to enhance the services," he said.

For quicker response in disaster and medical emergencies, there is a proposal to construct new helipads in inhabited Islands”, LG said.

On the new integrated terminal building coming up at Port Blair Airport, he said that it will have state of the art features.

He also expected a positive impact from the talks the Administration held with the CEOs of national carriers to reduce the airfare between Mainland-Island sector.

"There are initiatives to explore the possibility to introduce international flights services from Port Blair, he said.

“In health issues, the Islands are on a better scale on health indicators in the country and especially in government sector, we have one of the best health care system," he said.

He also rued the wide dearth of specialists and to overcome the scarcity, he said that regular health camps are conducted and doctors serve in outer Islands on rotation basis.

To augment health services, LG lauded the efforts and cooperation of doctors from Army Medical Corps.

“As the LG relief fund fails to meet the medical expenses of poor Islanders, who proceed to mainland for specialized treatment, it has been a challenge for us”, said the LG.

"A Medical College in the Islands was the only solution which we are pursuing vigorously. The college will function from a temporary premises till the new buildings come up," Lt Gen AK Singh said.

On providing employment to the local youth, the LG said that a special recruitment camp for Defence services was conducted in which about 84 local youths were recruited.

Expressing shock over the boat tragedy of 26 January 2014,  in which many lives were lost, he said that the Administration would not allow such accidents to happen in future.

“We have learnt a lot of lessons from the unfortunate incident and the safety and security of tourists is now our priority. Safety audit of all tourists vessels were taken up and to implement the safety norms, Tourist Safety Enforcement Team comprising police, tourism department and health department has been formed, who will keep a tab on all tourism activities in important tourism destinations," he informed.

"In adventure tourism activities, registration of all operators has been made a must," he cleared.

The Lt Governor mentioned about the heightening of Dhanikhari Dam by 5 mts which eventually increased the capacity by 70%, solving the problem of water scarcity in Port Blair and surrounding areas in the next 20 years.

In order to ensure availability of water in 10 villages of Bambooflat area the Administration has also launched Kamsharat Nallah Water supply scheme, likely to be completed by mid 2015, the Lt Governor said, expressing confidence that the work Khudirampur Dam in Diglipur will also commence in this financial year.

The Lt Governor reiterated on the target of the Administration to supply treated water to all the areas with a population of over 250 people, for which a new dedicated circle will be set up, he said.

The Lt Governor expressed his displeasure over the poor performance of the State Sports Associations. The Sports Secretary has been asked to review all aspects of sports and take necessary steps for reconstitution and improvement in the sector.

The Lt Governor also mentioned that the Administration will establish a multipurpose indoor stadium at Wimberlygunj with volleyball, badminton, table tennis and gymnasium facilities. He also expressed hope that the youth of the Islands will regain their fame in the field of football.

Havelock Cargo Dinghy Mishap: Search on for Missing Person

Havelock Cargo Dinghy Mishap:

Search on for Missing Person

In a mysterious incident, a cargo dinghy reportedly packed with more than 5 tonnes of cargo and two persons on board went missing between Port Blair and Havelock.

According to Mr. Jawahar, Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman, one person namely Ranjan Mondal was found at No. 19 Beach in Havelock today morning.

Despite continuous search by 3 PCR speed boats, 2 fast crafts and a Dornier of Coast Guard, there was no trace of the Dinghy or the missing person, Karak Mondal.

Jawahar also informed that as soon as the information was received, SOP was activated. Eventually, search operations were started.

Its learnt that whatever information is available is from the survivor, Ranjan Mondal, who is recuperating at PHC, Havelock.

Speaking to LOA, Vikas, SHO, PS Havelock said that a missing report has been filed and a police team with Coast Guard searched the whole area close to Neil Island and Havelock today without any result. He said that the search will continue. "We spoke to the survivor, who is admitted in PHC Havelock, and according to him, the Dinghy was carrying vegetables and other ration materials belonging to different vendors," Vikas said.

Ranjan Mondal told a source that the Dinghy had hit rock near Kalapathar area and drowned. Both the persons got hold of empty cans, but only he could reach the shore.

The Dinghy is owned by Nirmal Biswas who had shifted to plying the cargo dinghy after his vegetable business went into loss.

The vegetable market was today shut down due to the accident. Only one vegetable shop was open, which was selling potatoes at the rate of Rs 50 per kg.

Speaking to LOA, a resort owner said that death on sea due to toppling of cargo dinghies are not very uncommon between Port Blair and Havelock. "As its raining, the cargo would have been tightly secured by ropes, and the Dinghy would have hit the sea bottom when drowned," he said. "It might come up in a couple of days as the potato sacks open up," he added.

Making a comment on the precarious situation, he said that the cargo dinghies which were plying earlier have all shifted into lucrative tourism business and most of the current crop of dinghy owners are unskilled and incompetent, who don't know how to handle it.

"A disaster between Havelock and Port Blair is not something which could not be anticipated, as there are no cargo ships plying in this route and the cargo is taken by unauthorized and illegal Dinghies without any safety measures or documentation, " the Resort owner added.

Illegal Quarry and Crushing Units Seized; BJP Block Road Protesting

Illegal Quarry and Crushing Units Seized; BJP Block Road Protesting

We have Evidence of Illegal Quarrying: DC

Stone Crushing Units and Quarries found operating illegally in South Andaman District were seized by the Deputy Commissioner South Andaman after conducting raids. The units along with eight trucks and three excavators were seized in two different raids conducted by a team led by the Sub Divisional Magistrate on 28th July and 1st Aug. 2014.

While two trucks were fined under Mines & Minerals Act and released after production of the Transit Permit, the remaining vehicles are still under the custody of the Dy. Commissioner.  

The raids were initiated by the Dy. Commissioner South Andaman after complaints were received regarding the illegal operation. The seizure has led to much hue & cry among the community involved in the business, which is backed by Bharatiya Janata Party now.

Protesting the action taken by the Deputy Commissioner South Andaman, the BJP functionaries along with the effected party, led by Deepak Jha, State BJP General Secretary today blocked the road in front of DC Office, demanding release of the seized property.

“These people have Patta Lands in their names. They had parked their vehicles in their own land, which is cannot be illegal”, said Deepak Jha, General Secretary. “Their vehicles were seized without any intimation. The Dy. Commissioner has no right to do so”, he added.

Jha further said that the affected party have patta lands where crushing unit were in operation. But these units have not been functioning for months yet case was made against them for illegal operation.

“Even if it is illegal operation, why should someone run around for days together to get their seized vehicles released? Fine can be imposed and their vehicles released. There is no point in holding their vehicles”, Jha concluded.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner South Andaman, Mr. Jawahar IAS cleared that all the vehicles and excavators that have been seized were from the site where illegal quarry and crushing were found in operation. “We have evidence”, he said.

Jawahar said that intensive campaign was launched by the Sub Divisional Magistrate and team for a week after complaints were received from various quarters of the civil society. It was later decided in a meeting to crackdown on these illegal operations.

“After ascertaining the facts and gathering evidences, the sites along with 3 Excavators and 8 Trucks were seized where illegal quarry and crushing units were in operation. Among the 8 Trucks seized, the drivers of two trucks were found not in possession of the ‘Transit Permit’ issued by the DC Office, although the Permit was issued to them. They were fined under the Mines & Minerals Act, which amounts to double the market price of the product and later released”, Jawahar added.

‘Transit Permits are issued by the Deputy Commissioner’s Office to transport quarry products, which is valid for one day. It is also mandatory for the drivers of the vehicles to carry the permit while transporting these products. This is in accordance to the Mines & Minerals Act”, Jawahar said.

Jawahar also mentioned that there are two groups involved in illegal quarry and stone crushing operations. “We used to catch them but it was in a sporadic manner”, he said.

The DC, South Andaman added by stating that he is awaiting detailed reports after which stern action will be taken according to the Law.

By curbing the illegal quarry operations, DC South Andaman has shown courage to touch a sensitive nerve and taken the nexus head on, which surely is going to create ripples.

The quarry operators is a strong and powerful lobby having both political and financial clout. It cannot be discounted that it will take things lying down. However, the villagers can finally heave a collective sigh of relief with the stern action by DC. 

Mass Hysteria over Sickness in City Schools

Mass Hysteria over Sickness in City Schools

Students Discharged after Screening and Observation at GB Pant Hospital

Today, GB Pant Hospital was flooded with hundreds of school children complaining of fever, vomiting sensation and in a few cases loose motion. Around 80 students were detained and kept under observation. 

“All the detained students have been sent home after check up and observation, as there is nothing to worry,” Dr Paul, Director, Health Services informed. “Only five students who still suffer from vomiting and high fever have been detained and kept under observation.

Meanwhile, DHS also assured all support to the parents and informed them to contact the Centralized Ambulance Service by dialling 102 in case of any emergency.

Around 9.30 am today, a few students of Govt Middle School, Junglighat who complained of sickness were evacuated to GB Pant Hospital. Soon, many more students started complaining of sickness after mid-day meals were served. Simultaneously, a few students from GDMS, Middle Point also developed similar symptoms. The school authorities immediately called the ambulance services and started shifting students to the hospital.

Prompt action by a team of Doctors and Specialists helped contain the situation.

The authorities informed that the causes of the sickness are yet to be ascertained. Speaking to LOA, a senior specialist from GB Pant Hospital informed that one single cause cannot be attributed as students have reported various reasons. 

The possible reasons as reported by the students and parents could be DPT vaccination and iron tablets administered to the children in the school. However, ANI Admn in a communication informed that over 200 children had received the vaccination and only 13 such children reported fever.

Parents of children also alleged food poisoning as also one of the possible reasons. Meanwhile, doctors said that viral fever due to inclement weather conditions cannot be ruled out. 

Earlier, a situation report issued by the Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman, said that there was heavy flow of children as parents who had picked their children from school were also bringing them to hospital for medical screening. However, there was nothing to panic and their condition were found to be out of danger,” he said.

The hospital authorities acted promptly and made arrangements for a makeshift ward for the affected children. Rina Ray, Chief Secretary (i/c) visited the hospital and took stock of the situation. 

V K Maryam Bibi, Adhyaksha, ZP, SA had also volunteered to visit the concerned school, District Control Room and extended all cooperation to bring the situation to normalcy.

As a precautionary measure samples of food and water have been lifted from the schools which will be sent for testing in the Food Laboratory at mainland. The Chief Secretary has also directed the Sub-Divisional Magistrate to conduct an inquiry into this incident. 

“Food samples of mid-day meal, water samples etc. have been collected and are being sent for testing in Chennai in the absence of Food Testing Lab in the Islands. We are looking into all possibilities and trying to find out the reason,” Dr Paul said.

One Year of Lieutenant Governor AK Singh: Expectations and Accomplishments

One Year of Lieutenant Governor AK Singh

Expectations and Accomplishments

By Zubair Ahmed

Lt Gen A K Singh completed one year as the Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands on 8th July 2014. After resuming charge from Lt Gen Bhopinder Singh, who had stayed a little too much, the change was refreshing. The Islanders had all their expectations pinned on the new Lieutenant Governor. And he too sensed the pulse of the Islands and made a few changes in the rules of engagement with the elected Member of Parliament, PRIs and obviously with his own bureaucrats.

He interacted with everyone quite often and could easily connect with people at grass root level. He won their hearts and the acceptance level went up. But, they yearned for more and started expecting the long pending projects and schemes getting fructified through him, which were otherwise lying entangled for quite a long time in the intricate bureaucratic mesh. And, they were not asking for the moon as they could see a gleam of hope at the end of the tunnel.

However, it never looked or looks to be an easy task ahead. In the last eight months, if the callous and lethargic Administration was the biggest impediment and the push required was enormous, of late, a new challenge has cropped up.

After the whopping victory of NDA at Centre and comeback of Bishnu Pada Ray as the Member of Parliament, the Administration is literally facing the heat. There are visible differences in the priorities of the MP and the Administration. Or the MP is quite vocal about his right of way. If the prerogative of the Administration is inclusive growth, the Member of Parliament has got his axes to grind in the political arena. Lately, he has been very critical about utilization of funds especially in areas where he could not garner votes. And, he has also started to see misuse of fund in all such projects.

If the cliché during last five years was ‘there is no shortage of funds’, now even the MP is asking “where is the fund?” For the first time, the financial health of the Administration is discussed at street level, courtesy, the MP, which may be a good sign as far as transparency is concerned. But, it would be sad if it becomes an excuse for stalling projects.

If the Islands have to progress, the Administration as well as the Member of Parliament will have to work in tandem. There cannot be two lists of priorities for one territory. And, the Administrator has time and again shown the generosity to accommodate the demands of the Member of Parliament, but there seems no reciprocation from the other side, which is going to be a formidable challenge in the coming days.

As far as the achievements of Lt Gen A K Singh are concerned, foremost the Islands got an accessible and interactive Administrator open to suggestions from all quarters. A few major accomplishments in terms of infrastructure was raising of the height of Dhanikhari Dam which eventually happened and was commissioned in December 2013, improvement of 38 kms of rural roads, focused development in Havelock as a tourism destination, construction of fish landing jetties. Establishment of Andaman and Nicobar Tribal Research and Training Institute was another major step. In education, setting up of a new degree college and massive recruitment drive of teachers were well appreciated.

Special focus was given to disaster management preparedness and initiatives for safety audit in the wake of the boat tragedy. In the health sector, setting up of MRI, Dialysis and radiology units were accomplished. Two resorts owned by the Admn were renovated and refurbished and eco-friendly facilities on beaches were put up. Apart from that, Air India flight between Port Blair and Car Nicobar will commence this month onwards, an additional helicopter was inducted into service and 37 new buses were acquired.

Though there was much hype and hoopla about tourism sector, a lot could not be achieved, and it reflects even in the tasks ahead for the next 100 days. There is no mention of any progress in the three major projects - CG Earth project at Long Island, Taj project at Havelock and Soma project at Neil Island. Has the Administration given up on all the three projects or is it going to drag eternally? And, its not exciting that nobody is talking about seaplane anymore. It's one area where the Islands was losing money, and in a way its a welcome step, whether those in the helm of affairs agree or not.

In the last one year, more than what the new Lieutenant Governor could achieve in terms of developmental projects, he set the ball rolling for many ambitious projects, which on completion would surely change the face of the Islands.

In shipping sector, acquisition of smaller ships and vessels are yet to get the deserved priority. It doesn’t even feature in the next 100 days target. More than the 2 x 1200 pax mainland-Island sector vessels, there is urgent need for improving connectivity in the foreshore and harbour sector. North and Middle Andaman District is still lacking sea connectivity due to shortage of vessels. If tourism and other sectors in Diglipur and Mayabunder have to develop, it’s vital that more vessels ply on a regular basis. Moreover, the harbour ferry service between Bambooflat and Chatham has hit roadblock due to lack of jetties and sufficient vehicle ferry vessels. It doesn’t seem to be in the scheme of things as of now.

What is forthcoming is more attractive and exciting than what has been achieved, only if all the forces concur on achieving it in a time bound manner.

Setting up of Medical College would be the most anticipated one. There are challenges as well as hurdles in setting up the medical college. The dispute over temporary location of the college may be just a minor setback, which can be resolved through consultation and dialogue. However, there are cynics who still think it as wishful thinking that the Islands could attract good and qualified faculties, thus solving the long pending problem of specialists and super specialists. The engineering college is still struggling to get good faculties and managed by guest lecturers and a few of them on contract. Even the Shipping Dept couldn’t find a Marine Engineer and the only corporate entity; ANIIDCO could not get a CFO. How lucrative and sustainable can be the package that would attract experts and specialists to these far-flung Islands?

The Undersea Optical Fibre Cable Project is now a long term project which could take more than three years. But, it’s once again on track after it was derailed and took a complete u-turn. It is learnt that the DPR will be prepared by DOT and placed before Telecom Commission.  The capital expenditure of the project which might cost Rs 1500 crores will be met by Universal Social Obligation fund and operating expenditure will be met by the UT Administration. Instead of a branch from the existing cable between Chennai and Singapore, the newly proposed project will be a cable directly laid from Chennai to Port Blair with a lifespan of 25 years. If this project sees the light of the day, it would be another feather on the cap of the incumbent Administrator, who despite knowing all the impediments went ahead and salvaged it. A delay of three years is no big deal as the Islanders are habituated to such way of life.

Housing project with special focus on EWS and LIG Housing would be another major step which is on agenda and could be a path-breaking achievement if it takes shape during the tenure of Lt Gen A K Singh.

The past one year was eventful. The Lieutenant Governor is now familiar with the land, people and the way of life here. He is also quite obviously familiar with the bureaucracy. Time and again, he has been issuing diktats for them to follow. The enthusiasm and vigour that the LG manifests is somewhere missing in the Administration. It was quite visible when issues were raised by the media and the theoretical replies were emanating from the secretaries.  

It is also palpable that there is lack of institutional memory in the Administration. Frequent reshuffle in the bureaucracy is taking toll on various projects and continuity is lost in the bargain. The Shipping and Tribal Secretary was caught unaware about a few proposals in Shipping sector as well as the alternate sea route to Baratang, for which the Supreme Court has already set a deadline of March 2015. Lack of coordination between departments is another area which decelerate projects, as in the case of  APWD and PBMC regarding water supply and distribution in municipal area, Revenue Dept and APWD in the matter of Commissariat Nallah Dam project.

There is optimism everywhere and it has to be seen how the Lieutenant Governor and team with the support of the Member of Parliament, PRIs and the Islanders in general takes the territory ahead in the coming days.