Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 338/10

VANAMAHOTSAVA OBSERVED

Shillong, July 30, 2010: A mass tree planting programme in observation of Vanamahotsava was organized on July 28, 2010 by the Department of Forest and Environment, Social Forestry Division, West Garo Hills in collaboration with ADRA, IPTEC, Nokma Council, NSS of Tura Government College and the students of Asananggre Secondary School at Asanang. The Vanamahotsava is observed every year in Tura to conserve environment against degradation by deforestation and poaching, as initiated by P Munshi the then Union Minister for Agriculture in 1950. This civic action was enacted to safe guard against environment degradation and in the long run provide sustenance for the common people in the form of fodder for cattle, firewood etc.

Mr. Skylance G Momin, retired IGP and President of Nokma Council graced the occasion as the Chief Guest whereas Mr. S N Sangma, DFO Wild Life Division, Tura chaired the programme. Stressing on the importance of planting trees, Mr. Skylance G Momin speaking as the Chief Guest informed that the flora of a particular region was essential to regulate the normal functioning of an environment and therefore instructed all the Nokmas to desist from practicing Jhum cultivation in areas close to water bodies. He further added that planting of trees was essential for the conservation of the environment because of the massive amount of deforestation and industrial activity taking place in the modern world. “ I have planted close to 4,000 trees in and around Tura and would like to urge the younger generation to follow suit as the environment is in a precarious position due to excessive deforestation and lumber poaching”.

Among others who spoke at the occasion were Mrs. J A Sangma, Divisional Forest Officer, Social Forestry, Tura, Mr. B Shira, Members ADRA and members from NSS, Tura Government College. At Sadolpara, following on the tradition of observing the Vanamahotsava festival, a mass tree planting programme was held on 29th July, 2010 at St. Thomas English School, Sadolpara.

Shri. P.K. Boro, ESC, Dadenggre Sub-Division, who was the chief guest for the day, recalled the time when Dadenggre sub-division was covered with dense forest and the sightings of the elephants was a common affair. He said, “Today there is not a single clue that can suggest that the elephant still exist within the jungle, simply because of deforestation.” Shri. Boro added that it only takes a maximum of 5 minutes to cut down a tree, but, would require an average of 20 years to grow back the tree. He urged the villagers to take up the initiative to grow more trees within the village. Further Shri. Boro reminded the villagers that it is only through education that one can over come underdevelopment issues within the region. Thus, re-sounding the importance of sending their children to schools.

Earlier Smt. M.J.A. Sangma, MFS, DFO, Social Forestry, Tura, enlightened everyone with the importance of observing the Vanamahotsava festival.

Likewise, Shri. B.A. Sangma, FR, Range Forest Officer, Tura representing ADRA, urged the local people to come forward and help them in curbing the issues relating to illegal tree theft and animal exploitation, stating that such active measures would definitely benefit the livelihood of their children in the future.

Also present at the occasion were the NSS students group of Tura Government College and Fr. Antony Thekkemate, Secretary, St. Thomas English School, Sadolpara.

Press Release No. 339/10

PRICE OF LPG INCREASED

Shillong, July30, 2010: The Deputy Commissioner (Supply), West Garo Hills, has through a notification announced that the price of 14 kgs of domestic LPG cylinder has been increased to Rs. 365.70 per cylinder from the previous rate of Rs. 328.00.

In this regard the D C (Supply), West Garo Hills, has requested all the general public to extend their cooperation.

Press Release No. 340/10

SHUTDOWN NOTICE

Shillong, July 30, 2010: The Deputy General Manager (EAST) Shillong Distribution, MeECL, Shillong has informed that the 33/11KV Nongthymmai will be put under shutdown for urgent maintenance work on August 3, 2010 with effect from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

The areas to be affected are whole of Laitumkhrah, Nazareth Hospital, Supercare Hospital, Ram Krishna Mission, Fire Brigade, Jingkieng, whole of Motinagar, Cleve Colony, Risa Colony, Lummawrie, Jowai Road, ISPW, whole of Nongthymmai, Nongshilliang, Upper Nongrim Hills, Bethany Hospital, NEC, Madanrting, Mawblei, Demthring, Spring Side, Golden Estate and adjoining areas.