Tamenglong, February 06 2009: In the backdrop of the recent Shirui standoff between the NSCN-IM and the Assam Rifles, the 11th battalion of the paramilitary force posted at the district headquarters hosted a meeting of public leaders, media personnel and AR authorities at its battalion headquarters yesterday.

The meeting convened by 11 AR Commandant Col PS Chhonkar was attended by Sub Divisional Magistrate Joseph Pauline and SDPO Nungba as representatives of the district administration with the other participants representing bodies such as the Zeliangrong Baudi, Zeliangrong Union, Zeliangrong Youth Front, Zeliangrong Students' union and Zeliangrong Youth Front.

Editor of the Dihcham daily Ramkung pamei, who is also the president of Tamenglong District Working Journalists' Union represented the media fraternity.

security related issues, in the aftermath of the Shirui standoff, figured prominently at the meeting that also took note and upheld prevalence of peaceful environment in Tamenglong district.

On the development front, there was unanimity that the district needed concerted effort from all concerned in order to purposefully tap its abundant natural resources.

While shortage of drinking water, absence of health care facility and poor road link came under sharp scrutiny of the participants, Col Chhonkar assured of the AR's presence and assistance whenever and wherever the need arise.

Significantly, the Commandant mooted roping the service of an expert from Chandigarh to chalk up plan for drinking water sufficiency in the district.

Apart from highlighting welfare programmes being taken up in the district, he also confided that under the military civic action programme knitting and embroidery as well as a computer centre would be established in the district very soon which would be followed by engaging youths in production of bakery items to generate employment.

In connection with the raising day celebration of the AR on March 24, he urged the public leaders to extend cooperation towards organising marathon race, song and dance competition.

Col Chhonkar also assured all possible assistance in smooth and successful hosting of the Lui-Ngai-Ni festival slated for February 15 .

Comment