Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 04 July 2024
Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, the Member of Parliament for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has made a significant appeal to Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman, the Honourable Finance Minister of India. During their recent meeting at Parliament, Mr. Ray urged the Minister to allocate budgetary provisions for several key projects aimed at bolstering the educational and infrastructural landscape of the Islands.
Mr. Ray emphasized the need for establishing premier educational institutions such as the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), National Institute of Technology (NIT), and the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in the Islands.
In addition to higher education, Mr. Ray advocated for the establishment of the National Skill Training Institute (NSTI) and the National Skill Training Institute for Women. He also proposed the creation of a Skill Development University to enhance vocational training and skill development in the region. The implementation of the Skill Strengthening for Industrial Value Enhancement (STRIVE) program was also highlighted as a priority.
Mr. Ray further proposed the introduction of the PRASAD Scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive), the establishment of Food Craft Institutes (FTI), and an Institute of Hotel Management in the Islands. These initiatives aim to boost tourism and hospitality, fostering economic growth and employment opportunities.
Addressing the critical need for sustainable water management, Mr. Ray requested provisions for Water Conservation and Rain Water Harvesting Schemes. He also suggested the provision for Air Water Generators to every household in the Islands to ensure access to clean drinking water.
Moreover, Mr. Ray called for the creation of Tribal Model Villages (Adarsh Gram) to support the local tribal communities and improve their living standards.
To ensure the swift implementation of these projects, Mr. Ray requested that a team of officers be deputed to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He urged them to take immediate action and facilitate the early realisation of these initiatives.
Mr. Ray’s comprehensive proposal underscores his commitment to the development of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, seeking to transform the region into a hub of educational excellence and sustainable development.