Andaman reiterates commitment to ensuring better life on R-Day

Port Blair, Jan 26 (UNI) On the occasion of the 59th Republic Day, Lt Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands Bhopinder Singh today reiterated his commitment to provide a better standard of life for the islanders.

''No stone shall be left unturned to achieve the basic facilities of clean drinking water, better education, good roads and essential medical services,'' the Lt Governor told the people in his Republic Day address.

He said the task of handing over permanent shelters to all the tsunami-affected people had already began and all the affected people would get permanent houses soon.

The Lt Governor said efforts were on to lessen the crisis of drinking water in the islands, which were hit by severe water crisis last year.

Mr Singh also requested the Centre and Union Home Ministry to extend free rations till December 2008 to all the tsunami victims.

Meanwhile, the Lt Governor honoured Chief Captain of Car Nicobar Aberdeen Blair with LG's Commendation Certificate, the topmost honour of the Union Territory.

Considered as a hero of the Nicobari Tribal Community, Mr Blair was honoured for his selfless service and sincere approach for the welfare of tribal population.

Mr Blair, the Chief Captain of the worst tsunami-hit Car Nicobar Islands, displayed indomitable courage and excellent leadership during the post-tsunami days.

Besides Mr Blair, the five other persons, who received the prestigious certificates, were Mr Gulab Singh Mishra, a headmaster with the Directorate of Education, Ms Rejina Kero, Head constable of Andaman and Nicobar Police, Mr Chandra Prakash, Shayak Engineer, Indian Coast Guard, Mr P K Subhash, the Director Doordarshan Kendra, Port Blair and Mr Mahananda Gomasta, Artist-cum-designer, Information and Publicity Division of the administration, for their contribution towards the progress of the islands.

UNI SKR DPM SP AS1439