Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 03 December 2023
D. Ayyappan, Secretary of the CPI (M) A & N State Organising Committee, recently undertook a visit to Great Nicobar and has since then taken proactive steps to address the numerous issues afflicting the inhabitants of this region. In a comprehensive letter addressed to the Lt. Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Ayyappan highlighted a spectrum of concerns demanding immediate attention and remedial action.
The foremost plea made by the CPI (M) State Secretary is the establishment of an Industrial Training Institute (ITI) at Campbell Bay. Ayyappan underscored the lack of opportunities for candidates in this remote area to pursue vocational or job-oriented courses. With parents hailing from economically challenged backgrounds, the feasibility of sending their children to Port Blair or the mainland for ITI courses remains unattainable, necessitating the establishment of an ITI within the vicinity.
Furthermore, Ayyappan emphasized the critical need to station an adequate number of Specialist Doctors in Campbell Bay. He highlighted the hardships faced by the lower-income strata as they are unable to avail medical treatment in Port Blair or on the mainland.
The CPI (M) Secretary also accentuated the potential for tourism development in Great Nicobar within the larger scope of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Proposing the necessity for frequent and substantial ship services from Port Blair, Ayyappan suggested the requirement of Nalanda/Sindhu type boats for improved connectivity. He envisioned the development of attractions such as Indira Point, Galathea, and pristine beaches to foster tourism, creating livelihood opportunities for the local populace.
Ayyappan raised concerns about the plight of farmers in Great Nicobar, particularly regarding the non-implementation of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for copra, the primary agricultural produce of the region. He noted the absence of procurement by any agency, forcing farmers into selling their coconut produce at meager prices to private companies. ANCOFED, designated as the nodal agency for copra procurement in the A & N Islands, has failed in its duty to support farmers, further exacerbating their woes.
In addition to these pressing issues, Ayyappan highlighted the need for the reinstatement of a computer training centre at Campbell Bay, and ensuring the availability of essential items in sufficient quantities within Great Nicobar.