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MINUTES
OF THE COMBINED EXECUTIVE BOARD AND GOVERNING BODY MEETING OF NEZCC
HELD A list of members who attended the meetings is appended at Annexure – I The Annual Combined Executive Board and Governing Body meeting of the NEZCC was held on November 10, 2006 at 10:00 A.M in the Auditorium of the NEZCC Shilpgram, Guwahati. Shri Shyamal Datta, His Excellency the Governor of Nagaland and Chairman, NEZCC chaired the meeting. The Chairman, NEZCC informed the members that this was the first meeting of the Executive Board & Governing Body being held at the Shilpgram Complex of the NEZCC. He extended a hearty welcome to all members on behalf of the NEZCC. He stated that the Centre had a Corpus Fund of only Rs.7.61 Crore when he took over as Chairman with a bad investment of Rs.1.00 Crore with the Leafin India Limited and it was a matter of pride that the present Corpus Fund was almost Rs.20.00 Crore. At the same time, he expressed his unhappiness as in spite of the best of efforts, the State’s matching contribution in respect of the member State of Arunachal Pradesh amounting to Rs.1.00 Crore was still over due. Despite making part payments, other States of Manipur (Rs.25.00 lakh), Meghalaya (Rs.80.00 lakh) and Tripura (Rs.16.00 lakh) were also yet to make full payments. The concerned members from Meghalaya were urged to impress upon the respective Governments to release the remaining amount at the earliest in order to earn sufficient interest on the Corpus fund. Manipur and Tripura agreed to release their outstanding share at the earliest. The Chairman conveyed his gratitude to all member States who have already contributed to the Corpus Fund. He stated that when the Centre would be able to earn more interest, more programmes and activities could be taken up in future. He informed the members present that the Centre had an ambition of making the Auditorium centrally air-conditioned and this had been pointed out to the Director (F). He regretted that despite assurances given by the Ministry of Culture earlier, the balance amount of Rs.54.16 lakh was yet to be released against additional grants for Shilpgram and during the Finance Committee meeting when the Director (F) was informed about this, the Centre was once again asked to submit a proposal. He pointed out that once the Auditorium was air-conditioned it would be the best facility available in Guwahati. He expressed his gratitude to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Assam for sanctioning Rs.25.00 lakh and placing the funds at the disposal of Guwahati Municipal Development Authority (GMDA) for the landscaping works at Shilpgram Complex. He also informed the members that the fund provision kept for a lily pool would be utilized for constructing a food court in front of the food stalls and a water fountain would also be installed in the Complex.
The Chairman, placed on record his appreciation of the excellent
services rendered by the former Director, Mrs. Angau I. Thou, NCS in
consolidating the finances of the Centre particularly at a time when
the Centre was passing through a very bad time. Welcoming the new
Director, he expressed that
The Chairman stated that although the Shilpgram Complex was
inaugurated on January 17, 2006 by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of
India, While pointing out that the proposal for allowing airfare to members is against the decision of the Union Ministry of Culture, the Chairman felt that the matter might be taken up with the Ministry of Culture Government of India so as to make a special consideration for the NE States like Manipur, Arunahcal Pradesh, Sikkim & Mizoram as an exception.
With these introductory remarks, the Chairman requested The Hon’ble Minister in his brief speech, said that the association of his State with the NEZCC for the last few years had been full of sweet memories. Observing that a number of programmes had been held at Mizoram and cultural troupes from his State had participated in events throughout the country. He expressed his thankfulness to the NEZCC for sending the Cheraw troupe to Edinburgh as well as a student Contingent to the Republic Day Celebration, 2004 at New Delhi. He appreciated the Centre for bringing up the Shilpgram at Guwahati for the benefit of craftsperson of the entire region. He further said that efforts were on to occupy and run the Craft Stalls allotted to Mizoram within a short period of time, as there were some hurdles in availing of the opportunities in time. On preservation and promotion of dying art forms, he urged the Centre to lay more emphasis on documentation. He also mentioned about equal representation in programmes and equitable distribution of funds and opportunities among all the member States as far as possible. Thereafter, Hon’ble Minister, ICAT, Tripura Shri Anil Sarkar addressed the meeting. He informed the house that the fund received by Tripura for the last 5 (five) years was not satisfactory. He expressed his gratefulness in sanctioning two programmes for Tripura during 2006 – 2007. He said that it was time to concentrate on cultural workshops in the Northeast rather than organizing routine cultural functions. He urged the Centre to take up documentation activities and a publication on art forms and dances of the Northeast. He further said that “Bihu” dance of Assam was very popular in Tripura and called for a 10 (ten) day workshop on Bihu in Tripura. He wanted that programmes signifying Mathri Bhasha Diwas should also be taken up in Tripura. While conveying satisfaction in allotting exhibition stalls at Shilpgram, the Hon’ble Minister said that the Tripura Handloom & Handicrafts Development Cooperation (THHDC) had been entrusted to occupy the stalls. Hon’ble Minister Cultural Affairs, Assam Dr. Gautam Bora in his speech stated that he was grateful to the Centre for holding the meeting at Guwahati. Pointing out that the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Assam had taken initiative in the establishment of Shilpgram at Guwahati, he stated that the Shilpgram had become functional and assured the meeting that the Government of Assam would continue to provide all possible assistance to the NEZCC and its Shilpgram at Guwahati. Hon’ble Minister Cultural Affairs & Heritage, Sikkim Shri G. M. Gurung in his brief speech highlighted the cultural background of the people of Sikkim. He said the people of Sikkim had been able to retain the traditional culture and had remained relatively untouched by the western influence, in spite of rapid globalization. He also proposed review of the Guru Shishya Parampara scheme so that provision for the cost of costumes and musical instruments could also be included as people from the far flung villages were unable to purchase these items because of their economic condition. He pointed out that the Shilpgram at Guwahati needed wide publicity through various media to attract more visitors. The main gate of the Shilpgram needed to be made more attractive and the gate connecting Shilpgram from Kalakshetra should also to be opened so that visitors to the Kalakshetra got the opportunity to visit the Shilpgram. Thereafter, the Director, NEZCC in her presentation highlighted the financial position of the Centre. She stated that the Centre currently had an operational Corpus Fund of Rs.19.74 Crore and an interest income of Rs.1.44 Crore was expected during the current Financial Year. Stating that the Corpus Fund was invested in Government of India Bonds and nationalized Banks as per the Government of India guidelines, she expressed that the annual income of the Centre did not stand static in view of changing rates of interest offered by the financial institutions from time to time. She pointed out the need for the Centre to have a sound Corpus Fund to meet the administrative expenses of the NEZCC and the Shilpgram. She stated that all the member States had paid their share of the Corpus Fund except Arunachal Pradesh (Rs.1.00 Crore), Meghalaya (Rs.80.00 lakhs), Manipur (Rs.25.00 lakhs) and Tripura (Rs.16.00 lakhs). She also stated that following improvement in the financial position, the Centre had been able to manage funds from its interest earnings to carry out the following activities during the current financial year; (i) Payment of timely and regular salary to the employees of the Centre, including EPF and Gratuity Premium. (ii) Repairing of temporary quarters of the Director, sinking area in the Artists Dormitory, bridge in the campus and repair and painting of the main administrative building of the NEZCC. (iii) Annual administrative expenditure of Shilpgram amounting to Rs.18.38 lakh. (iv) Organizing programmes at the Shilpgram amounting to Rs.10.00 lakh every year. (v) Organizing small collaborative programmes amounting to Rs.2.00 lakh. She stated that the Centre was expecting the Ministry of Culture, Government of India to provide an annual grant of Rs.100 lakh to conduct programmes under NCEP 2006-07. She observed that the Centre would like to make equitable distribution of programmes and funds under NCEP as approved by the Programme Committee in its meeting held on November 9, 2006. She also pointed out that the Centre was lagging behind in documentation activities because of meager grants from the Government of India. The Director also explained to the members about the programmes being implemented by the Centre, and pointed out that under the Guru Shishya Parampara and Young Talented Artistes Schemes, sufficient applications were not being received from the member States. As per the plan of programme approved by the Programme Committee the Centre needed Rs.25.52 lakh to extend assistance to about 20 Gurus, 20 accompanyists and 80 Shishyas during 2006-07 and under the Young Talent Awards Scheme 2006 -2007, the Programme Committee, had approved to recognize 11 artistes out of the grants 2005-06 and 40 artistes out of the grants for 2005-06.The members were requested to attach due importance of these programmes so that the numbers of beneficiaries increased and the programme becomes successful. Explaining that the NEZCC has been implementing programmes under various schemes of the Ministry of Culture for which grants are sanctioned annually, the Director emphasized the need for timely release of grants within the financial year for successful implementation of the Annual Plan of Programmes under these schemes. She also brought to the notice of the Committee that grants for NCEP (2nd installment) and Theatre Rejuvenation for the last year 2005-06 were received by the Centre during the Current Financial Year. The members were also informed that the Centre had not received grants against the Documentation, Guru Shishya Parampara and Young Talents Awards for the financial year 2005-06 for sheer egligence on the part of the members. While pointing out the difficulties in organizing programmes as per the approved schedule, the Director NEZCC stated that the Ministry of Culture, Government of India had sanctioned an amount of Rs.25.00 lakh vide sanction order F.No.10-8/2006 – ZCC dated 18.6.2006 and Rs.14.00 lakh vide sanction order No.15-2/2006- ZCC dated 18.10.2006 for organizing programmes under NCEP, but no money had been received by the Centre till the date of this meeting. She stated that release of annual grants in advance was essential for successful implementation of all the approved programmes and submission of Utilization Certificates in time. The Director also highlighted that unlike other Zones, the expenditure on the administration of the Centre and conduct of programmes were normally high in the North East Region due to various factors prevailing in this region, such as, lack of proper communication facilities, rail services and other essential infrastructure facilities. Stating that the fare paid for the artistes journey from their respective villages to Guwahati was comparatively much higher than the train fare from Guwahati to Delhi. This added to the cost of organizing programmes in the region. Therefore, the Director, NEZCC stated that it was necessary to request the Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India to sanction special grant for the NEZCC and release the grant in advance to enable the NEZCC to implement all the approved programmes as per the schedule. About the future plans of the NEZCC the Director stated that the NEZCC had to go beyond the conventional implementation of programmes and schemes, and therefore, the need to explore possibilities of seeking assistance from other Departments, Ministries and sources should be prioritized. In order to achieve this objective, the NEZCC had already scheduled annual collaborative programmes with CCRT and the Song and Drama Division of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting by providing the facilities available at its Shilpgram. To promote the craftspersons and the crafts of the region through the facilities available at the NEZCC Shilpgram, the Centre submitted proposals to the DC Handicrafts, Ministry of Textiles for organizing Crafts Expo, Integrated Design Workshop, Establishment of Handicrafts Museum and Seminar on Export Potentiality of Crafts of the NE Region involving policy makers, entrepreneurs, Master Craftspersons, Marketing Agencies, and Crafts Experts etc in collaboration with the Regional Director, DC Handicrafts. Regarding improvement in the financial position and the administrative set up, the Director NEZCC stated that the Centre expected to continue to consolidate its financial position and towards this all member States were expected to contribute their due share. The Centre would also be pursuing the implementation of the VRS to make the administrative set up more lean and effective and to reduce the burden of expenditure on the salary component. The adoption of the revised service rules would also enable the Centre to ensure a more disciplined administrative setup. A model staffing pattern would also be taken up in the following year. Thereafter, the Director, NEZCC presented a brief report on Shilpgram, which had been set up with the objective of providing an interactive marketing platform for craftsmen and women of the member States of the NEZCC. It also aimed to create general awareness about the cultural heritage and the unique art forms of the member States of Assam, Manipur, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland. Towards these objectives, the Shilpgram Complex has 8 State Pavilions for showcasing the Cultural heritage of each member State, 45 exhibition cum sales stalls to enable 5 craftsmen from each member State to display and sell their traditional handloom, handicraft and other products, 8 food stalls to promote the traditional cuisine of the member States, a Dormitory Block to accommodate 200 visiting artistes and craftsmen, a 400 capacity Auditorium and an open air theatre for organizing cultural events. The Director, NEZCC stated that in order to enable effective participation of all member States in the activities of the Shilpgram, the facilities available at the Shilpgram for each member state were allotted to them to display cultural artifacts of interest, select entrepreneurs to run the food and Exhibition-cum-Sales stalls. The member States had to pay as per decision taken in the last Executive Board/Governing Body meeting on May 21, 2005 Rs.34,000/- per annum for the facilities like Pavilion (Rs.10,000/-), Exhibition Stalls (Rs,12,000/-), Food Stalls (Rs.12,000/-). Out of eight members payments have so far received from Manipur, Mizoram, Sikkim and Tripura only. The remaining four members of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Meghalaya were requested to expedite payment. The Director stated that at present all the exhibition cum Sales Stalls and food stalls were occupied. The State of Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Tripura and Sikkim (only two stalls) had sent their craftsmen. She informed the members that considering the poor response from the member States, in spite of several reminders, the Advisory Committee on Shilpgram had issued final deadline for occupation of stalls on or before 31st August, 2006. Following this, the NEZCC had contacted craftsmen from the various member States directly and had allotted them the unoccupied stalls on a 3 month rotational basis. The Director, NEZCC also highlighted that some of the States had allotted their stalls for a period of one year to the selected craftsmen. This had resulted in lack of variety in crafts being sold and also denied opportunity to other craftsmen from these States. Further, there had also been complaints about sub-allotment of stalls by some of these occupants. Some States were represented by their Handloom and Handicraft Corporations and the Director pointed out that being semi Government setups, the salespersons followed their official timings while opening and closing their sales stalls causing inconvenience to visitors. Only the member States of Assam and Manipur had officially selected entrepreneurs to run their food stalls. Except for the State of Assam, other member States had not shown any interest in utilizing the Pavilions allotted to them. The Director also informed the members that the Auditorium, open air theatre and Dormitory were being well utilized for various functions and were also being rented out to other Government as well as Non-Government Organizations proving to be a source of revenue for the Complex. However, the Auditorium was yet to be fully furnished and needed to be equipped with Air Conditioning facilities chairs and projector. Further, the Director stated that in order to encourage visitors to the complex and generate more awareness, the present arrangement of waiving the entry fee should be continued. The priority should be on encouraging marketing activities in the complex to attract craftsmen/buyers/visitors/tourists so that income could be generated from the entry fee once the Complex becomes popular and a destination for tourists and local people. She also stated that the development of the Shilpgram Complex would continue with the State Government of Assam sanctioning an amount of Rs.25 lacs for landscaping activities. The Ministry of Culture, Government of India had also committed to give an amount of Rs.20 lacs for the maintenance of the complex for which sanction has awaited. The NEZCC was also exploring the possibility of taking financial assistance from other Departments in order to realize the full potential of the Shilpgram Complex. In regard to the future plan of the Shilpgram, the Director said that the Centre planned to take up interactive programmes at the Complex for not only artisans/craftsmen from the Northeastern States but from other parts of the country. Towards this, Regional as well as National level Craft Bazars were being taken up. The Centre proposed to organize a National Level Crafts Expo in the month of December, 2006. In order to encourage skill upgradation, new designs, innovations and improve the quality of products, the NEZCC would be taking up Integrated Design Projects for craftsmen from all member States at Shilpgram under the aegis of the O/o the DC (Handicraft). The Centre also proposed to convert the Pavilions as Mini Handicrafts Museum with the financial assistance of the DC (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles. The Director also stated that the Centre proposed to organize daily Cultural programmes at the Complex to promote the various art forms of the member States. The Centre had already set aside Rs.10 lacs for such programmes for the current financial year. Concluding the report on the Shilpgram, the Director said that with better response from member States, craftsmen and entrepreneurs and with increasing number of activities being organized at the Complex, the Shilpgram Complex would continue to grow and be self sustaining. Thereafter, the Chairman sought the views and suggestions of the members on the report presented by the Director, NEZCC. Shri Arun Sharma, member from Assam underscored the need to take up a media campaign to highlight the Shilpgram and its activities through print/electronic media and urged the Centre to provide fund for the purpose. He also wanted to know the process and guidelines of the formulation of programmes by the member States. The Chairman replied that a proposal for fund for publicity would be submitted to the Government of India as per the decision the Finance Committee meeting. The Chairman also stated that the Centre would take up the matter with the Tourism Department, Government of Assam to include Shilpgram as a tourist destination in their publications. The NE Tourism Cooperation would also be approached to include Shilpgram as a potential tourist destination for tourists. On formulation of programmes by the member States within the budget, as decided in the Programme Committee, a Workshop for the nodal Officers drawn from the member States would be held at Guwahati coinciding with the 1st anniversary of Shilpgram. The Chairman also suggested to the members that instead of focusing on the amount of grants more emphasis should be given on the quality and content of the programme. Shri M. K. Barooah, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary , Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam suggested that a letter should be addressed to the Director, Publicity, Government of Assam to depute officials to cover programmes at Shilpgram. Similar letters also could be addressed to Doordarshan and NETV. The Chairman said that in future, the NEZCC should take the assistance of the Publicity Department of Government of Assam for coverage of the activities at Shilpgram. The house was also informed that Hoardings on Shilpgram had been put up at Khanapara and Guwahati Railway Station and one would soon come up at the Guwahati Airport. The Chairman remarked that Rs.25.00 lakh sanctioned for landscaping should have been taken up earlier as desired by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Assam on the pattern of Nehru Park. The money should be utilized for the purpose positively before the next monsoon. Pointing out that the Advisory Committee on Shilpgram should give less emphasis on infrastructures like staff quarters etc and more importance should be given on planning of programmes and workshops etc. to popularize the Shilpgram Complex. Mrs. Taba Yall Nabam, member from Arunachal Pradesh mentioned that the Director, NEZCC alongwith the members of Arunachal Pradesh should meet Hon’ble Chief Minister to pursue the Corpus Fund Contribution of Arunachal Pradesh. The Committee directed the members from Arunachal Pradesh to pursue the matter with the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh to contribute Rs.1.00 Crore to the Corpus Fund of NEZCC. Shri L. Bhutia, IAS, Principal Secretary, Sikkim stated that they were coordinating with the Tourism and Handicrafts Department to operate the facilities provided to their State at the Shilpgram. He requested the Committee to consider reducing the rent of food stalls to Rs.500/- per month. Dr. (Mrs.) Sarojini Devi, Director, Arts & Culture, Manipur suggested that hoardings of the Shilpgram should be displayed in the Airports of all the member States and that the responsibility should be taken up by the respective member States. Shri K. K. Sema, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, Art and Culture, Nagaland said that the NEZCC should make all efforts to transform Shilpgram into a vibrant organization. He emphasized on efficient administrative set up and a well–planned publicity strategy to project the Shilpgram as a popular destination for visitors and suggested that the Ministry should provide sufficient fund for the purpose. He shared his experience of a visit to the Dilli Haat, and opined that Shilpgram had the potential of becoming a miniature Dilli Haat. He also suggested for providing accommodation to personnel manning the Pavilion. The Chairman replied that the accommodation could be provided in the Dormitory for personnel posted at the Pavilions. Shri N. C. Sinha, IAS Commissioner & Secretary Tripura viewed that the categorization of the member States as full member and dual member should be avoided and requested the Committee to give more time for occupation of the Stalls, Pavilions etc at the Shilpgram. He observed that the NEZCC spent a major portion of its fund for administrative expenditure and pointed out that it should provide more fund for programme activities. Mrs. Boichhingpuii, Director, Art & Culture Mizoram stated that the sales at the Shilpgram were so meager that the craftspersons of her state had not been encouraged to open their stalls regularly. She stated that the State of Mizoram had selected entrepreneurs to occupy the stalls and the pavilions. She also requested that the stalls should be allotted to the selected craftsperson. The Chairman NEZCC informed the Committee that the rent paid by the member States for the year would remain valid up to 31.03.07. Shri P. Bharat Singh, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, Manipur also suggested that rental charges at Shilpgram for the initial period should be reduced and the division of the member states as full and dual members should be avoided. The Chairman said that the member States of Assam, Manipur, Sikkim and Tripura were being recognized as dual members because these States were members of both the NEZCC and the EZCC and their contribution to the Corpus Fund being equally shared between the NEZCC and the EZCC. He, however, stated that the NEZCC provided programme allocation equally to all the member States. Smt. Viola Sonatchi B. Sangma, member from Meghalaya stated that no programme had been organized by the NEZCC in the Garo Hills for the last many years. She said that the NEZCC had organized a programme in Tura some years back and they would like to have more such of programmes in the Garo Hills. The Chairman NEZCC suggested that the member should discuss this matter with Director, Art and Culture, Meghalaya for submitting proposals for consideration. Shri Charles Chasie, member from Nagaland appreciated the achievements made by the NEZCC. He underscored the need for a composite programme involving all member States to be taken to different parts of India as well as foreign countries highlighting the unity in our unique cultural diversities. The Chairman stated that the Artistes Directory of the North East one of such composite programmes being proposed, would be ready in 5 (five) months time. After the preparation of the Directory, the Centre would be able to take up such programmes to promote all the artistes. Shri Koolchandra M-Them, a member from Manipur said that an array of lesser known traditional art forms of Northeast and Manipur in particular, needed to be promoted, for which a project on preservation and presentation of such rare art forms should be taken up. The Chairman accepted the proposal and agreed to conduct a workshop at Manipur. Thereafter the agenda for the meeting was taken up for discussion and decision. 1. Confirmation of minutes last Combined meeting of Governing Body, Executive Board, Finance Committee and Programme Committee held on May 21, 2005. The minutes were discussed and confirmed. 2. Ratification of Sub – Committees meetings minutes The following Sub-Committees meeting minutes were ratified and approved the constitution of the Advisory Committee for Shilpgram. (i) Finance Committee meeting held on 28.06.2005 (ii) Shilpgram Construction Committee meeting held on 26.08.2005 (iii) Programme Committee meeting held on 09.09.2005 (iv) Constitution of Advisory Committee for Shilpgram and minutes of the meeting held on 04.07.2006 (v) Advisory committee for Shilpgram meeting on 24.08.2006 (vi) Programme Committee meeting held on November 9, 2006 (vii) Finance Committee meeting held on November 9, 2006 3. The Action taken Report on last meeting minutes and review on the Chairman’s introductory remarks, Ministers’ and Joint Secretary’s comments were discussed and confirmed. 4. Status of Programmes: The reports on status of programmes for 2005 – 2006 and 2006 – 2007 were placed in the agenda for information of the members and the same were unanimously endorsed. 5. Present Financial position as on August 2006 A detailed note reflecting the latest financial position of the NEZCC was placed in the agenda for information of the members. The Chairman requested the members from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura to pursue with their State Government to make available the contributions due towards the Corpus Fund of the NEZCC. 6. Action taken on Financial Management of NEZCC and works taken up during 2006 – 2007 The house was informed that in order to streamline the financial management of the Centre, efforts were being taken to maintain transparency and accountability in financial transactions. The Centre invites competitive interest rates from financial institutions and keeping in line with the Government of India guidelines, Corpus Fund investments are made into Nationalised Banks and 8% GoI Bonds. The Committee endorsed the action taken on financial management of the NEZCC.
7. Auditors’ Report 2004 – 2005, 2005 – 2006 and comments on action taken Auditors’ Reports and Accounts of the NEZCC for the year 2004 – 2005 and 2005 – 2006 alongwith comments and observations on Auditors’ note were placed before the Committee for approval. The Governing Body approved the Auditors’ Report and Accounts of the NEZCC for the year 2004 – 2005 and 2005 – 2006. Comments and observations on Auditors’ note pertaining to cash in hand, Cash System of Accounting and action taken on unadjusted advances were also discussed by the Committee and approved. Annual Report for 200-06 was circulated to the Committee and the Committee adopted the same. The Committee observed that the Audit Certificates from the AG may be pursued for issue of the same at the earliest to include in the Annual Report. 8. Shilpgram Status/Management Report Shilpgram Status and Management report was discussed and approved. 9. Common Staff Pattern of Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) The Committee endorsed the suggestion of the Directors of Zonal Cultural Centres meeting held on 20.09.2006 at New Delhi that “there should be uniform staffing pattern for the ZCCs and the optimum strength should be 35 to 40”. 10. Proposal for Revision/Modification of Service Rules It was informed to the Committee that the existing Service Rules of the NEZCC were approved by the Finance Committee in its meeting dated 31.5.1988. It was ratified by the Executive Board and Governing Body in their meeting dated 12.7.1988 and 14.9.1988 respectively. The Centre has been following the same Service Rules with minor changes/modifications. However, considering the status/position of the NEZCC in different aspects, it has been viewed that a major change/modification in the Service Rules is required. As such, a Sub-Committee for rectification/modification of NEZCC Service Rules was constituted with 3 (three) members during the Combined meeting of the Executive Board, Governing Body, Finance Committee and Programme Committee dated 06.11.2004. The Sub-Committee could not be held within the stipulated time. In pursuance to the decision of the review meeting taken by His Excellency the Governor of Nagaland and Chairman, NEZCC a Draft Revised Service Rules of NEZCC was placed in the meeting for approval. The Chairman NEZCC proposed modifications to the Rule 8 and Rule 13. The Chairman observed that the financial implications on contribution towards the EPF on the basis of the actual basic pay etc., should be worked out by a Committee for consideration of the Rule 13. The revised Service Rules were discussed and approved with minor modifications. The Committee decided to replace the rules mentioned herewith as follows: Rule 8 – Appointment of Service: All appointments shall be made by the Director of NEZCC on the recommendation of the Selection Board on behalf of the Chairman of the Governing Body of the Society. Detailed procedures to be followed are shown in Schedule III. Under Schedule – III of Rule 5 (a) Clause – 6: Preference will be given to the candidates belonging to the member States, viz: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura. The Committee also constituted the Selection Board/Departmental Promotion Committee with the following members to look into the matters pertaining to appointment and promotion. (i) Director, NEZCC (ii) Representative of P & AR Department, Government of Nagaland (iii) Representative of the Finance Department of Government of Nagaland (iv) Representative from Assam/Nagaland (v) Deputy Director (Admn.) NEZCC 11. Ratification of appointment of Director The Committee ratified the appointment of Smt. V. Hekali Zhimomi, IAS (UP 96) as the Director of North East Zone Cultural Centre, Dimapur w.e.f. 01.08.2006 (FN) on the following terms and conditions: (i) The Service will be on the usual Foreign Service terms applicable to Government Servants deputed to Autonomous Bodies. (ii) The Foreign Service will be for a period of two years. (iii) Smt. V. Hekali Zhimomi will draw her pay plus deputation allowance as admissible. As required under Rule 20 (a) of the MoA, the Executive Board/Governing resolved that Smt. V. Hekali Zhimomi, IAS shall maintain the accounts, sign cheque and other documents with the Bankers on behalf of the Executive Board from the date of joining the post, i.e. 01.08.2006 (FN) till she holds the charge of Director, NEZCC. 12. Appointment of Auditor/Chartered Accountants The Committee approved the following proposals. 1. Ratification of appointment of M/s. B. L. Purohit & Co (CAs) as Auditor for the year 2005 - 06. 2. Enhancement of Audit Fee from Rs.10,000/- to Rs.15,000/- and 3. Appointment of M/s. B. L. Purohit & Co (CAs) as Auditor for auditing the accounts of NEZCC for the year 2006 – 2007.
13. Amendment of Rules and Regulations of MoA The Governing Body resolved to amend the Memorandum of Association and add the following clauses under the Rules Regulations of the MoA.
It was also pointed out by the Principal Secretary, Cultural Affairs & Heritage, Sikkim that the logo of the Centre needed to be changed to include Sikkim.
14. Nomination of Chairman, Programme Committee (NEZCC) It was decided to request the Government of Assam to nominate Shri Krishnamurti Hazarika as a member of the Executive Board from Assam and allow him to continue as the Chairman of the Programme Committee for the remaining term. 15. Amendment of Clause 3 (a) of Memorandum of Association The Governing Body resolved to amend Clause 3 (a) of MoA of the NEZCC as mentioned hereunder in view of the induction of Sikkim as a member State. “To preserve, innovate and promote the projection and dissemination of Arts of the Zone comprising the States of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura”. 16. Nomination of members to various Committees of NEZCC The Committee decided to nominate the Commissioner & Secretary, Art & Culture, Government of Manipur to the Finance Committee as an ex-officio member in place of Dr. M. Nara Singh. 2. The Committee approved the nomination of the following members from Sikkim to various Committees of the NEZCC. GOVERNING BODY CLAUSE 4(iii): Shri G.M. Gurung, Hon’ble Minister, Cultural Affairs & Heritage Department, Govt. of Sikkim, Gangtok CLAUSE 4(v): Shri L. Bhutia, IAS, Secretary, Cultural Affairs & Heritage Department, Govt. of Sikkim, Gangtok CLAUSE 4(viii): Shri Tashi Densapa, Director,National Institute of Tibetology, Deorali, Gangtok – Sikkim CLAUSE 4(ix) 1. Mrs Bina Rai, Chairperson, Other Backward Class Committee 2. Shri G.S. Lama, President, Sikkim Akademi, J.T. Marg, Gangtok – Sikkim 3. Mrs R. Ogmu, Former Minister of Cultural Affairs & Heritage Department & Member – State Women Council, Govt. of Sikkim CLAUSE 4(x) 1. Mrs. Maiya Prabhan, 6th Mile Tadong,Gangtok, East Sikkim 2. Shri. T.N. Sharma, Opposite Krishi Bhawan, B.L. Sharma Building, National Highway, Tadong, Gangtok – 737 001 3. Shri. Narendra Gurung C/o Cultural Affairs & Heritage Department, Govt. of Sikkim, Gangtok EXECUTIVE BOARD CLAUSE 7(iii): Shri L. Bhutia, IAS, Secretary, Cultural Affairs & Heritage Department, Govt. of Sikkim, Gangtok CLAUSE 7(iii): Shri Tashi Densapa, Director, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Deorali, Gangtok – Sikkim The Government of Sikkim may nominate one member from amongst its members of the Governing Body to the Executive Board under Clause 7 (vi). PROGRAMME COMMITTEE CLAUSE 10(i): Shri Tashi Densapa Director, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology,Deorali, Gangtok - Sikkim CLAUSE 10 (iii): 1. Mrs Maiya Pradhan, 6th Mile Tadong, Gangtok, East Sikkim 2. Shri T. N. Sharma, Opposite Krishi Bhawan, B.L. Sharma Building, National Highway, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim 3. Shri Narendra Gurung, C/o Cultural Affairs & Heritage Department, Govt. of Sikkim FINANCE COMMITTEE The Government of Sikkim may nominate one member from amongst its members of the Governing Body or Executive Board to the Finance Committee under Clause 12. 17. Introduction and Implementation of Voluntary Retirement Scheme The NEZCC presently has a staff strength of 54 (fifty four) employees and is considered overstaffed. The major chunk of expenditure is incurred on the salary of the employees annually. Introduction and implementation of Voluntary Retirement Scheme is considered essential to minimize the administrative expenditure. As such, following proposals were placed before the Executive Board/Governing Body meeting. (i) Introduction and implementation of the Voluntary Retirement Scheme by the Centre with financial assistance from Ministry of Culture. (ii) Implementation of the Voluntary Retirement Scheme in phase wise within a duration of 5 (five) years. (iii) Constitution of a Sub-Committee for implementation of Voluntary Retirement Scheme. The Executive Board/Governing Body meeting approved the proposal and decided to submit the Voluntary Retirement Scheme of the NEZCC to the Ministry of Culture, Government of India for approval and financial support. 18. Status of NEZCC Complex A proposal for developmental activities at the NEZCC Complex as per the Master Plan of the NEZCC was submitted with a suggestion to take up the Auditorium/Open Air Theatre and a Guest House during 2006 – 2007. The Committee endorsed the decision of the Finance Committee on this matter and decided to submit a proposal to the Government of India. 19. SHILPGRAM While deliberating on the Shilpgram the following decisions were taken: (i) To reduce the annual rental for member – States from the existing rate of Rs.34,000/-.to Rs.20,000/-. (Pavilion Rs.8,000/-, Exhibition-cum-Sale Stalls Rs.6,000/- and Food Stalls Rs.6,000/-). (ii) The meeting unanimously decided to utilize the State Pavilions for - (a) Showcasing the culture (Mini Museum), including Craftsperson in action. (b) A marketing window for the State Handloom and Handicrafts products and (c) Tourist information Centre of the State concerned. (iii) Those States which have not made the Pavilion and Sales Stalls functional were asked to take over the same on a priority basis within March 2007 if not earlier. Following the failure to do so, the Centre would be given the authority to allot these of facilities to entrepreneurs. Any other matter Dr. Francis Kulirani from the Anthropological Survey of India suggested that various organizations under the Ministry of Culture needed to collaborate on indigenous knowledge system during the 11th Five Year Plan, in order to have proper co-ordination on documentation programmes. He also suggested preparation of an inventory of documentation already undertaken. The Chairman remarked that the two members from Anthropological Survey of India and Archeological Survey of India could be included in the panel of experts for documentation. The meeting ended with a vote of thanks to the Chair. (V. Hekali Zhimomi) IAS Director-Member-Secretary ANNEXURE-I
ATTENDANCE IN THE COMBINED MEETING OF GOVERNING BODY/EXECUTIVE BOARD/PROGRAMMEE COMMITTEE AND FINANCE COMMITTEE HELD ON MAY 21, 2005
1. Shri.Shyamal Datta, His Excellency the Governor - Chairman GOVERNMENT OF INDIA 2. Dr. B. Bandyopadhay Archaeological Survey of India - Representative 3. Shri. Dr. B. Francis Kulirani, Anthropological Survey of India - Representative ARUNACHAL PRADESH 4. Shri Chow Sujata Mansai - Member 5. Mrs. Taba Yal Nabam - Member 6. Shri Hage D. Appa - Member ASSAM 7. Shri Gautam Bora Hon’ble Minister of State for Cultural Affairs - Member 8. Shri M. K. Barooah, IAS Commissioner & Secretary - Member 9. Shri Abinash Sarma Deputy Director, Cultural Affairs - Member 10. Shri Ratna Ojah - Member 11. Shri Krishnamurti Hazarika - Member 12. Shri Arun Sarma - Member MANIPUR 13. Shri P. Bharat Singh, IAS, Commissioner &Secretary - Member 14. Dr. (Mrs.) Sarojini Devi, Director, Art & Culture - Member 15. Dr. N. Tombi Singh - Member 16. Dr. N. Premchand Singh - Member 17. Shri R. L. Achoubisana - Member 18. Prof. Laldena - Member MEGHALAYA 19. Smt. Viola Sonatchi B. Sangma - Member 20. Shri John G. Soanes - Member 21. Shri Wonshondro Buam - Member MIZORAM 22. Dr. Lalzama Hon’ble Minister for Art & Culture - Member 23. Mrs. Boichhingpuii, Director, Art & Culture - Member 24. Shri C. Laitanga - Member 25. Shri Dr. L. Sangkima - Member 26. Shri Lalthangfala Sailo - Member 27. Shri R. S. Rosangluaia Joint Director, Art & Culture - Member NAGALAND 28. Shri K. K. Sema, IAS Commissioner & Secretary, Art & Culture - Member 29. Shri Vevo Chakhesang Dy. Director, Art & Culture - Representative 30. Shri Zapra Chakhesang &nbs |
