Times Of Oman - March 18, 2015

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WEDNESDAY, March 18, 2015 /27 Jumada Al Ula 1436 AH timesofoman.com

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BOOST FOR INFRASTRUCTURE

Contracts signed for road projects worth OMR376m MUSCAT: Oman’s road network has been given an OMR 376 million boost as contracts for 25 projects were signed yesterday.

After signing the contracts with several construction and contracting companies, Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Salim Al Futaisi, minister of transport and communications said, “The agreements signed convey the importance the government places on development projects in the Sultanate.”

He added that the projects vary from small and medium road construction projects and sewage systems.

“Due to the Sultanate’s geography, the government is keen on completing infrastructure projects as they are looking to facilitate the movement of citizens as well as achieve economic growth within the country,” he said.

Regarding the speed of construction and completion of the project, the minister said, “Both, the ministry and contractors, want to finish the projects as soon as possible as nobody likes delays. However, the contractors are facing issues which are beyond their control. We are working on getting quick clearances to start work as soon as possible.”

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PDO tackling incident at rig in Harweel Times News Service MUSCAT: Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) has confirmed it is dealing with an incident at a well at Rig 83 at Sakhiya-31, west of Harweel.

“Specialist personnel and equipment have been sent to the site to help resolve the situation. There have been no injuries, no hydrocarbon leaks into the environment and no damage to the asset,” according to a press statement issued by the Petroleum Development Oman. >A6

Amid fears over

Commenting on the agreements, Al Futaisi said, “The government considers these development projects to be very important. If there is a reduction of funds in the general budget, we will work on prioritising that aspect.”

“Everyone clearly understands the reason for our projects. Last year we constructed 500 kilometres of roads, and this year we are planning to do the same,” he further added. >A6

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Rain monitoring stations of the Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources reported medium to heavy rainfall in a number of the wilayats of the Sultanate. >A2

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State Council nod to consultancy law draft

WORLD

Houthis replace air force chief in Yemen

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Houthis, have removed the air force chief for refusing to provide them with air support and replaced him with a general closer to their group, officials said. >A15

Manufacturing Services Total

price of oil, industry

32,094

Construction

11,004

Oil and gas

experts said it will 2013

2015

2012 Oil and gas workforce

Expat

ELHAM POURMOHAMMADI

elham@timesofoman.com

MUSCAT: Expatriate workers will ‘inevitably’ be affected first if lower oil prices result in job cuts in the oil and gas sector, according to an Omani official, who said that the current situation will have almost no impact on Omanis.

As companies in the energy sector in some countries have begun trimming their payrolls due to a sharp drop in oil prices, an official at the Oman Society for Petroleum Services (OPAL) said that the current oil prices are not expected to have any major impact on employment opportunities in this sector but if jobs are to be cut in the future, expatriate workers will be affected first.

Speaking to Times of Oman, Musallam Al Mandhari, advisor to the board and interim chief executive officer of OPAL, said that it will be a ‘lie’ to say that the decline in oil prices will have ‘no impact’ on the jobs in this industry.

“Whenever there is a downturn in projects or a downturn in business, under normal circumstances, the people who get affected are expatriates, and then the Omanis get affected at some point.”

It is ‘inevitable’ given the ratio of Omanis to expatriates, he said

Services Oil and gas Semi-skilled Engineer Technician Operator Supervisor

12,160

4,050

6,497

25% 59%

9,494

3,361 6,488

2,424

3,606 2,219 987 1,988

58% 76%

3,166 936

261

915 186 4,456

Source: In-Country Value Development Blueprint Strategy 2013-2020, Opal

Reported layoffs Al Mandhari said that around 90 employees were reported to have been ‘laid off’ from two oil and gas companies but clarified that those people were not ‘laid off’, rather the project contracts that were being executed had come to an end.

Al Mandhari said that he does not think that those workers are ‘redundant’. Salim Nasser Al Aufi, undersecretary at the Ministry of Oil and Gas, had said earlier that the only stipulation from the min-

39%

3,097

918

on Tuesday on the sidelines of the first Oman Refining and Petrochemical Exhibition and Conference (ORPEC).

27%

2,271

Inspector

5,131

63%

5,630

Managerial Unskilled

Omani Omanisation

Total workers Construction

72,704 demand by 2020

2020

OMAN

2

B1

Demand for jobs sectorwise

the continued low

Omanis in firing line

South Al Sharqiyah receives heavy rains

ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company

WORKFORCE IN OMANI OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Salim Al Futaisi. — ONA

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Expats to bear the brunt if oil jobs axe falls be expats and not

A draft law on regularising the work of engineering consultancy office was approved by the State Council on Tuesday. >A3

Investors lose OMR400m as stocks slide

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32% 78% 17% 46% GRAPHICS

istry is that Omanis should not be retrenched from employment.

Al Mandhari said that the whole situation depends on how low the oil prices will go and it cannot be predicted how many jobs may be cut.

Omanisation level According to him, the average Omanisation level in 2014 within the oil and gas companies was 64 per cent and, according to statistics, 22,369 Omanis were working in the oil and gas sector in 2012.

He added that the maximum Omanisation target in the oil and gas sector is 80 per cent. “I do not think it can be achieved in less than 15 years.” >A6

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W EDN ESDAY, MARCH 18, 2015

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We are collecting almost half a million tonnes of waste. We are talking municipal waste, which averages one kilogramme per person per day Ahmed Noori Al Raisi, Assistant manager, Muscat Municipality

M U N I C I PA L I T Y ’ S S T U P E N D O U S TA S K

W E AT H E R C O N D I T I O N S

‘Muscat produces 400,000 tonnes of waste a day’ TARIQ AL HAREMI MUSCAT: Muscat Municipality collects almost half a million tonnes of municipal waste everyday from Muscat alone, it was revealed here yesterday.

Ahmed Noori Al Raisi, assistant manager of environmental health directory of health affairs, Muscat Municipality, stated in his keynote speech that more than 400,000 tonnes of waste is collected from Muscat. Seeb wilayat has the largest population among all wilayats in the governorate with 500,000 residents of the Governorate’s total population of over 1.2 million.

“We are collecting almost half a million tonnes of waste. We are talking municipal waste, which

averages one kilogramme per person per day,” said Al Raisi during his speech.

With the development of waste management systems underway and new innovations being implemented, Al Raisi stated that they have three types of systems with regard to waste collection.

“We have big bins all over Muscat and have started door-to-door collections in some parts of Muscat, which is a challenge for us since this is a daily process, along with an underground collection system,” he explained.

The underground collection, which is available in the CBD area in Ruwi, implements a system where the large garbage bins are concealed underground, with hol-

low bins on the surface for people to drop their waste in. The vehicles then lift the ground revealing the dust bins and empty them accordingly. The system eliminates the foul odour.

In addition to this technology, they have available in their fleet a mechanical sweeper which is responsible for sweeping dust off the roads and the highways, as well as a beach cleaner used solely for removing waste from beaches.

“Keeping the streets clean in the municipality with our own resources, personnel and equipment, is our responsibility,” he said.

Sheikh Ali bin Khalfan Al Qutaiti, head of the environmental and health committee of Majlis Al Shura, inaugurated the second an-

nual waste management and recycling exhibition and conference.

The two-day conference focuses on the challenges faced in the environmental and waste management sector and also to ensure that the Sultanate moves towards a greener and zero waste future.

It also provides the entire delegation with an ideal platform to identify some of the latest waste management and recycling technologies and solutions which are showcased by leading global solution providers. It identifies the risks and prominent issues currently encountered by the environment and waste management sector. The objective of the summit is to make the waste management system, environment

and eco-friendly, and prohibit landfill disposal.

“The intention of the summit is to bring about quality change that affects everyone,” said Dr Mehdi Jaaffar, conference chairman, during his welcome speech about the importance of waste management and the change that is needed to maintain a green environment.

The Sultanate has shown significant progress over the last few years in tackling the issue of waste management and recycling. The municipality is also implementing an extensive campaign for cleanliness in the capital. They aim to raise awareness of a clean neighbourhood with a recent initiative of putting out waste at certain specified times in the day.

Sharqiyah receives 55mm rain Medium to heavy rainfall in a number of the Wilayats of the Sultanate reported

MUSCAT: The Rain Monitoring Stations of the Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources reported medium to heavy rainfall in a number of the Wilayats of the Sultanate due to the influence of a trough of low-pressure system yesterday.

The highest amount of rainfall was reported in South Al Sharqiyah Governorate (55mm) in the Wilayat of Wadi Bani Khalid, in Al Dakhliyah Governorate with (45mm) in the Wilayat of Al Hamra, in North Al Sharqiyah Governorate with (25mm) in the Wilayat of Ibra.

The North Al Batinah Governorate reported (19mm) rainfall in the Wilayat of Al Khabourah. The same quantity was reported by the Wilayat of Ja’alan Bani Bu Hassan. Muscat Governorate reported (5mm) in the Wilayat of Quraiyat and the same quantity was reported at the Wilayat of Al Musannah in South Al Batinah Governorate.

Al Buraimi reported (12mm) in the Wilayat of Al Buraimi.

Wadi Tanuf Dam in the Wilayat of Nizwa was filled with 0.68 million cubic meters. Al Naba’ Dam retained 0.1 million cubic meters, Al Aqaidah Dam was enhanced by 0.08 million cubic meters in the Wilayat of Al Qabil.

Imti Dam in the Wilayat of Izki and Al Sareen Dam in the Wilayat of Al Amerat also had an excess of water.–ONA

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INFRASTRUCTURE SPEC - IALISTS

State Council okays draft law on regularising consultants Times News Service MUSCAT: A draft law to regularise engineering consultants was approved by the State Council on Tuesday.

After including the remarks made by members of the State Council and co-ordinating with the Majlis Al Shura, the final version of the draft law, which was referred by the Council of Ministers, will be presented before His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

The draft law covered topics such as business consulting and advisory offices, registry and licensing requirements, workers and engineers, the rights and du-

ties, and the Committee on Infractions, along with sanctions and concluding provisions.

The meeting was chaired by Dr Yahya bin Mahfoudh Al Mantheri, chairman of the State Council, members of the State Council and the secretary general.

After Al Mantheri welcomed the members the Council began discussions on the draft to ‘Organise work of engineering consultants’ referred by the Council of Ministers, along with the report of the Consultative Council around the law.

Members of the Society of Engineers Oman and the members of the Amman Centre for Architects attended the meeting.

Salem bin Saeed Al Ghatami, head of the economic committee explained that the subject for discussion included 36 topics in seven chapters.

The State Council will hold its 10th session on Wednesday to discuss amending some provisions of the Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law, the report of the Majlis Al Shura and the report of the State Council’s Legal Committee on the same topic.

It will also discuss the draft law for regularising the practice of the pharmacy and pharmaceutical institutions law, the report of Majlis Al Shura on the same and the report of the Social Committee. — Inputs from ONA

LEGISLATIVE ACTION: The final version of the draft law, which was referred by the Council of Minis-

ters, will be presented before His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.–ONA

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W EDN ESDAY, MARCH 18, 2015

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I wanted to write about women and their empowerment in our country. I had serialised the story for Malayali readers as I had no inkling then that it would be translated K.R. Meera, Award winning Indian author

Children’s books pitch for ecology awareness includes fiction, non-fiction and picture books about animals as diverse as whales, bears and elephants, apart from scientific subjects like microbes

CRITICAL AWARENESS: Nicola Davies’ series called ‘Heroes of the Wild’ featured positive conservation

stories in a fictionalised way to make them exciting for young people. Photos, video: Shabin E./TIMES OF OMAN

MUSCAT: British author and zoologist Nicola Davies has a deep passion for nature and environmentalism which she shares with the young readers of her children’s books.

The Welsh writer has a degree in zoology from Cambridge and has had various jobs, including studying geese in Scotland and humpback whales in Canada, and also worked as a present for the BBC children’s wildlife programme The Really Wild Show, so her passion for the environment is strong.

She is visiting TAISM and ABA this week to talk to children about writing and the importance of protecting the planet.

“Quietly from the grassroots up people are starting to realise that we don’t have another planet.

We only have one and we need to share it with all the other species here, not just because without them we would die of loneliness… but because without nature, for all our technology, for all our mobile phones, and our concrete roads, we can’t survive. We are utterly dependent on the processes of nature,” Davies told Times of Oman.

Through her writing, which includes fiction, non-fiction and picture books about animals as diverse as whales, bears and elephants and scientific subjects like microbes and nature in general, Davies hopes to inspire her young readers to be concerned

Arabic translation of Indian author’s book in the offing NISHAD PADIYARATH nishad@timesofoman.com

Nicola Davies’ writing

SARAH MACDONALD sarah@timesofoman.com

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People are starting to realise that we don’t have another planet. We only have one and we need to share it with all the other species here, not just because without them we would die of loneliness…

Nicola Davies

British author and zoologist

about the creatures they share the world with. Her Heroes of the Wild series featured positive conservation stories in a fictionalised way to make them exciting for young people, she explained.

She says she is lucky because children are generally fascinated by animals and nature, and want to know more about them, so they are an eager audience for her books.

At each school she visits, she asks every group of children she meets if they like animals.

“I have never been with a group of children where every hand didn’t go up. They have an abso-

lutely innate fascination because as children they still feel that instinctive connection to the natural world,” Davies said.

Much of Davies’ writing is based on real world experience, as she travels to the places she writes about to explore them firsthand and meet the people and animals themselves. She has visited Bhopal, India to research dancing bears and the Garo Hills in northeastern India to research elephants, and last year visited Armenia to research a story about elephant poaching.

“When you go to the place and

talk to the people who are involved in the story you are trying to cover what you find is bits of real life that are lying around on the ground that you just have to pick up and stitch together,” Davies said about her writing process.

She encourages the students she meets to practice writing from the real world, too, by observing the scenes around them and writing description, and by listening to conversation and taking notes, which she says are great source material for writing relatable books. Her own passion for words and language dates back to her childhood, as she was from a family who loved reading and poetry.

She remembers listening to her father recite Keats as he shaved in the mornings.

Though Davies didn’t begin writing until she was in her 30s, when she did there was no question that her subject would be animals and the environment, she admitted. “My love of the natural world is kind of the overriding force in my life. It goes right now through the middle of me like writing in a stick of rock,” she said.

MUSCAT: Award winning Indian author K. R. Meera has plans to translate her popular novel Hangwoman into Arabic after it won her accolades at the recently concluded Muscat International Book Fair.

Meera, one of the most powerful voices in contemporary Malayalam writing, created a buzz in the literary world after her book Aarachar was translated into English by Penguin Books India. The Malayalam version of the book has already sold over 11,000 copies – a remarkable achievement for a literary fiction title that deals with an unusual subject.

Speaking to the Times of Oman, during her visit to Muscat, the journalist-turned author said she received overwhelming response from the Omani community for her book.

“Since the book is in English most of them picked up a copy of my book and have asked me to get it translated into Arabic. I will be talking to my publisher Penguin India, and hopefully, I shall soon have the book in Arabic as well,” said Meera.

Hangwoman, which is approximately 500 pages, is a story of Chetna Grddha Mullick’s metamorphosis from a 22-year-old girl to the world’s first female executioner. Born into a family of professional hangmen from Bengal, she is forced to assume the duties of her ancestors when one Jatindranath Banerjee, who is convicted of raping and killing a minor, is sentenced to death.

Meera does a splendid job of mixing the past and the present and weaving it to create a story of love, loss and violence.

Women empowerment Asked how she decided to choose such a subject, Meera said, “I wanted to write about women and their empowerment in our country. I had serialised the story for Malayali readers as I had no inkling then that it would be translated.”

Soon after she quit her job as journalist with the Malayala Manorama newspaper, Meera

OVERWHELMING RESPONSE:

K. R Meera’s masterpiece ‘Hangwoman’ received an encouraging response in Oman.

–O.K. Mohammed Ali/TIMES OF OMAN

started writing fiction in 2001 and her first short story collection, Ormayude Njarambu, was published in 2002. Since then there has been no looking back.

Meera has won the prestigious Kerala Sahithya Academy award in 2009 for her short story Ave Maria. “It was my husband who asked me to take up writing fulltime after he read some of my short stories,” she said.

Quitting journalism “I have no regrets for quitting my job as a journalist, but I do miss the excitement of the newsroom.

Frankly, my first love remains journalism and that is the reason why I write columns for newspapers in India,” she added.

Speaking about the freedom of speech that is now under the hammer in India after a critically acclaimed Indian novelist Perumal Murugan announced his death as a creative artist following threats over his controversial book, Meera urged writers to stand together for their rights.

“Every writer comes under similar scrutiny when he or she writes anything controversial.

This has been the case since ages.

However, what happened to a novelist like Murugan was quite unfortunate. We lost a brilliant author. Writers in India should stand together to fight for their rights,” she added.

PA R T Y T I M E

Shangri-La and City Centre plan Mother’s Day special Times News Service MUSCAT: In celebration of Mother’s Day on March 21, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah will honour all mothers staying at the resort or visiting with a special programme.

When dining for lunch or dinner at the Resort’s two allday-dining restaurants: Middle Eastern Al Tanoor in Al Bandar hotel or international Samba at Al Waha hotel, loving mothers will dine for free when accompanied with their families. Our crew will also compliment every mother with a special gift for her to remember the charming moments spent at Shangri-La. To make a booking, please call restaurant reservations on 2477

Mother’s Day will be special at Shangri-La and City Centres

6565 or email fbreservation. slmu@shangri-la.com City Centre Mothers visiting City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum will receive special treats in the

form of a heart-shaped gift pack.

Mall staff will be on the lookout for families on Mother’s Day weekend, picking out lucky mothers and surprising them with these special gifts.

In addition to the Mother’s Day surprise, social media enthusiasts will have the chance to share a special moment with their mothers, wherever they are in the world.

Facebook fans can create personalised post cards on a dedicated application called ‘Dear Mom,’ which will then be sent via post within the city or abroad. City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum will print and mail out all local and international requests to ensure they reach mothers worldwide.

ONE SQUARE METER

CNN show highlights Oman Times News Service MUSCAT: CNN’s One Square Meter, (OSM) a weekly show that explores architectural designs, city plans and demand for property investment in emerging markets, in an upcoming episode features Oman.

Home to spectacular scenery and a stable government, Oman has been drawing in foreign residents for decades. But until very recently, foreigners weren’t able to buy any property there to call home. But thanks to new legislation, large-scale developments – known as Integrated Tourism Developments (ITCs) - where expats can buy freehold properties are being built across the Sultanate

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS: The TV programme visits the first and most recently developed ITCs in Muscat.

as the country makes an effort to boost tourism and decrease reliance on its hydrocarbon sector.

OSM visits the first and most recently developed ITCs in Muscat to see how these new developments are changing the face of Oman’s property market.

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ROHM to host Family Concert The concert will be a good opportunity to learn about the fun opera genre

Times News Service MUSCAT: In an event that is sure to delight the whole family, the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) will hold a special musical treat, Family Concert 2015, which will bring the best of opera buffa to children and their parents.

Combining music with informative explanations, the concert will give details about the different songs and music that make up a comic opera, or opera buffa.

Whether you are part of a family or not it will be a good opportunity to learn more about the famous and fun opera genre.

Opera buffa is a fun-filled art mainly characterised by its light airy songs. It is a genre known for hilarious characters and happy

FAMILY FIESTA: This is a wonderful and light introduction into Italy’s famous opera buffa, which is fun for people of all ages.– ROHM

endings despite twists and turns.

The Family Concert 2015 programme will introduce opera buffa to the audience which includes the best comic opera songs by Gaetano Donizetti and Gioachino Rossini, two Italian masters of this genre.

“This is a wonderful and light introduction into Italy’s famous opera buffa, which is great fun for people of all ages. In this program some of the best examples of opera songs, including solos and arias, will be presented,” said ROHM’s Artistic Director Umberto Fanni.

The concert will feature opera

NAT U R A L R E S OU R C E S

Honey bees set to buzz at today’s Science Café meet

Bees play their part either pollinating the many vegetables and fruits we eat directly, or pollinating the food for the animals that we then consume Dr Nadiya Al Saady

Organiser of the Science Café

Times News Service MUSCAT: Oman’s honey bees and the threats they face will be in focus at the next popular Science Café series meeting of the Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources Centre (OAPGRC).

The Science Café will be held on Wednesday from 7:30 p.m– 9:00 p.m at the Sohar Entertainment Centre in Sohar.

According to research of the 40,000 bee species worldwide only 25,000 have been catalogued. Their primary purpose is to collect pollen as a source of protein and energy for their young ones. But as part of the pollen-collecting duties, bees also pollinate 80 per cent of the food crops we rely on for sustenance.

Losing them could potentially devastate fruit and vegetable production, as well as livestock and dairy industries.

“We have an important message to deliver at this Science Café. We must do absolutely everything possible to protect this astonishing genetic resource.

Bees play their part either pollinating the many vegetables and fruits we eat directly, or pollinating the food for the animals that we then consume.

And that is not all bees do for us - honey and wax are two other important products that come courtesy of bees,” said Dr Nadiya Al Saady, executive director, OAPGRC and organiser of the Science Café programme.

However, bees are disappearing globally at an alarming rate and since the “colony collapse disorder” first surfaced in 2006, scientists have been struggling to explain the mysterious mass deaths of bees.

Today’s modern farming techniques have become increasingly

sophisticated producing genetically engineered and chemically dependent agriculture.

But it relies on just one domesticated insect to deliver a third of the food on our plate. And that insect is dying.

Research points to a complex triangle of causes such as pesticides, a flowerless rural landscape dominated by cash crops, and the spread of parasites and diseases.

Together they inflict enormous damage on bees that pollinate everything from strawberries grapes, onions and cucumbers to watermelons.

Wednesday’s Science Café will discuss the work being undertaken to understand bee behaviour, morphology and population dynamics. Indeed, armed with that information, local scientists, beekeepers and farmers can work together to develop strategies to enhance the productivity of Oman’s agricultural industry.

“If these insects that help provide so much of the food we eat were to vanish, then we would be facing a dire situation. Bees are the key to Oman’s biodiversity and are important economically as well as ecologically,” emphasised Dr Al Saady.

This month’s discussion will be held in Arabic and the panellists include Dr Hassan Al Lawati, director general of Agriculture and Livestock Research and Dr Alia Sajwani of Sultan Qaboos University.

“We are excited about bringing the Science Café to Sohar for the first time, and look forward to extending the initiative nationwide,” commented the OAPGRC Executive Director.

Held on alternate months in English and Arabic, the OAPGRC Science Café is an informal event open to the general public.

soloists, and the chorus and the orchestra from Italy’s Teatro Comunale Di Bologna.

Francesco Quattrocchi will conduct the concert which features soprano Roberta Canzian, mezzosopranos Anna Gambineri and Giovanna Ricci, tenor Bogdan Mihai, baritone Massimo Cavalletti, and basses Ruggero Raimondi and Alexander Hajek.

The music will include famous opera pieces such as Donizetti’s Una furtiva lagrima and Udite, udite o ustici from L’elisir d’amore. and Rossini’s Pria di dividerci da voi, Signore.

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W EDN ESDAY, MARCH 18, 2015 The movie is based on NRIs living here with their families while their parents continue to live in India. All actors were amateurs and made their debut in this film Thasleem Khan, writer and director of the film

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OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY

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An Indian film that

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is made in Oman has already become popular on YouTube and it has been subtitled in English

Times News Service MUSCAT: A short film “Uravugal — a relationship untold” made in Oman has been selected for the finals of the International Short Film Festival of India organised by the Don Bosco Institute of

Communication Arts in Chennai.

The film has also been shortlisted for screening at the Norway Tamil Film Festival (NTFF), a professional festival for filmmakers around the world.

Speaking about the film, Thasleem Khan, writer and director of the film said, “The movie is based on NRIs living here with their families while their parents continue to live in India. All actors were amateurs and made their debut in this film,” he said. The actors were 6 months to 73 years old.

Subtitled in English, the movie has already become popular on YouTube. The film was shot at a house

< FROM

‘72,704

A1 workers required’ Al Mandhari also said that 72,704 workers are needed by 2020 in the oil and gas industry and these jobs will be available for Omanis if they are qualified to do the job.

It is a projection for the period of 2013 to 2020 based on the current requirements and the expatriate population, he noted.

in Muttrah which had been locked for many years.

“To find the old house was very difficult, but we got hold of one which had been lying closed for more than 75 years through our Omani friend Majid in Muttrah.

As we could not find people to clean it, we cleaned and washed the house ourselves before the shooting. It was very tough as there was no electricity or water,” he said. The film was shot in the summer of 2014.

He also said that the news of the film getting selected is very inspiring and encouraging for the film society in Oman. “It is only because this is my second short film and we have no background in film making,” he said. The film was shot with a DSLR camera by Sudhin Vasu, the cinematographer, who also acted in it, postproduction was done in Chennai.

Khalifa Al Abri, acting chief executive officer of the Public Authority for small and medium enterprise Development (Riyada), said in a speech at the same event that over 3,900 jobs are estimated to be created with the SME sector in the oil and gas sector between 2013 and 2021.

Commenting on the impact of low oil prices on job opportunities, Nofal Al Saidi, general manager of human resources services at Orpic, said that he does not see any ‘major’ impact on Orpic in this regard.

“Today our strength is 1,600 and we will have around 3,000 employees by 2018 to operate the new units,” he said, referring to Orpic’s upcoming projects.

INFRASTRUCTURE BOOST

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Roads all set to connect new areas

When asked about the massive funding for the project, Al Futaisi said, “Every kilometre of road built will positively affect the GDP, just as any building constructed has an economic benefit. These roads will connect to new areas for industries and construction. This will contribute to the GDP of the Sultanate.

We are trying our best to ensure that our projects contribute to the GDP. Therefore, we cannot ignore the roads as they directly serve the interests of the people.”

Salim bin Mohammed Al Nuaimi, undersecretary of the Ministry of Transport and Communications, said, “The agreements signed will see the construction of asphalt roads which will extend to 280km, whether single or double lane, and more than 40-km of mountain roads. These will be extensions of the current road network and expansion of the single-lane roads to two lanes.”

He added that the total cost of the project is OMR376 million and revealed that there are other projects planned in the future.

Regarding the contractors and the selection process, he said, “The contractors are carefully selected to ensure quality, and the selection process is conducted through bids.

It is also clear that 95 per cent of the companies that have signed the agreements are local.”

When asked about the commissions that SMEs gain from the projects, the undersecretary said, “A committee has been formed to follow up with SME contractors and provide them with 10 per cent commission for implemented projects.

However, if they do not execute the work they will be exempt from any future projects.” -With ONA inputs

D E TA I L S O F T H E 2 5 R O A D P R O J E C T S

Nagarjuna Construction Company Ltd: Batinah Expressway (Phase 2) - 44.75km worth OMR 142,484,774 Galfar Engineering and Contracting SAOG: Dual laning of Barka – Nakhal road; 37.5km and service roads extending to 27km worth OMR64,961,425 Yuksel Construction Co. Inc. in partnership with Abu Hatim Company: Ibri road (phase 2) worth OMR42,154,831 which consists of dual lanes of the Ibri – Yanqal road extending to 34km, dual lanes and connecting Yanqal road extending to 2.7km; renovating Al Durez/Bhat road extending to 14km; renovating Hujairemat/Muqniyat road extending to 14km, renovating Yanqal/Thahir Al Fawares road extending to 12km and constructing two tunnels for vehicles on Ibri/Yanqal road (phase 1) Galfar Engineering and Contracting SAOG: Dual lane Taqah – Mirbat road extending to 35.5km worth OMR40,483,055 Khalid bin Ahmed and Sons Company: Al Abeila/Al Fayadh road extending to 42km worth OMR30,211,583 Khalid bin Ahmed and Sons Company: Natural Gas Company roundabout Al Masal – Sur roundabout road project extending to 14.6km worth OMR9,839,221 Khalid bin Ahmed and Sons Company: Dhanq/Khabib (phase 2) road project extending to 8km,

worth OMR7,589,966 Oman Gulf Company: Qatbeeb/ Niyabat Marsood road project extending to 35km, worth OMR3,120,588 Al Bustan Construction Company: Road project in Seet village of Wilayat Bahla extending to 14km, worth OMR2,403,998 Tilal Nimr Trading and Contracting: Samad Al Sha’n/ Wadi Andam in Wilayat Mudhaibi extending to 13km, worth OMR2,280,971 First World Projects Company: Road project in the interior of Aflaj in Wilayat Al Mudhaibi worth OMR1,981,513 Abu Hatim Company: Road projects in residential areas of Wilayat Ibri, worth OMR1,857,152 Al Hajri Trading Company: Road repairs near Suweih on Asilah/Ras Al Had road extending to 1.5km worth OMR1,889,490 Al Wataniyah United Engineering and Contracting: Flyover over Sallan Roundabout in Sohar, worth OMR7,994,800 Better Infrastructure Developers: Road projects in Seih Qatnah in Jebel Akhdar, worth OMR6,303,970 Wadi Shab Trading and Contracting Company: Road in Souqah in Wilayat Quraiyat, worth OMR1,782,400 Al Bustan Construction Company: Massirat Al Rawajeh road in Jebel Akhdar extending to 6.8km, worth OMR1,756,790

Al Bustan Construction Company: Massirat Al Jawameed road in Jebel Akhdar extending to 7.6km, worth OMR1,093,376 Al Bustan Construction Company: Massirat Al Shreqeen road in Jebel Akhdar extending to 17km, worth OMR1,090,684 Wadi Shab Trading and Contracting Company: Al Taha’im road in Wilayat Ja’alan bani bu Hassan, worth OMR485,000 Oman United Engineering Services: Wadi bridges on Wadi Tan’im in Wilayat Ibri, worth OMR1,874,719 Renardet S.A. & Partners Consulting Engineers: Consulting services and supervising the duplication project of Bidbid/Sur road (Phase 2) part 1, worth OMR1,038,800 Via International Engineering Consultants: Consulting services in designing and supervising duplication project of Raisoot/Mughsail road, worth OMR866,564 Technical Engineering Consultants: Consulting services and supervision on duplication project of Ibri/Yanqal road (phase 2), worth OMR464,550 Techno-Consult International: Consulting services and supervising dual lane project of the road from the Natural Gas Company roundabout Al Masal to Sur country roundabout, worth OMR385,690

P D O S TAT E M E N T

< FROM

A1 Working with ROP In preparation for the next stage of the operation and in line with the company’s strict HSE policies and processes, all necessary precautionary measures are being taken, including the evacuation of people and livestock from the surrounding areas,” it added.

PDO is working closely with the Royal Oman Police (ROP) and local authorities to co-ordinate the response which will affect some communities in the vicinity.

All emergency response teams, equipment and materials are being mobilised onsite, and production operations continue unaffected. Raoul Restucci, managing director of PDO, said, “The situation is under control and we are taking precautions to ensure the well-being and safety of our employees and nearby communities, which remain our priority.”

“The well bore is being stabilised and it is important to stress that there have been no casualties, environmental or infrastructure damage. The current evacuation is only a temporary, precautionary measure,” he added.

W E D N E S DAY, MAR C H 1 8, 2 0 1 5

REGION

Three children, their mother and father, and their grandmother suffocated to death after regime barrel bomb attacks on their village in the province of Idlib Syrian Observatory for Human Rights

ALLEGED BARREL BOMBING

FATA L S H O O T I N G O F W O M A N P R O T E S T E R

Six killed in ‘apparent gas attack’ in northwest Syria BEIRUT: Six people, including three young children, were killed in an alleged regime gas attack in northwestern Syria late Monday, a monitoring group and opposition activists said.

“Three children, their mother and father, and their grandmother suffocated to death after regime barrel bomb attacks” on their village in the province of Idlib, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. The Britain-based monitoring group said doctors in the village of Sarmin, southeast of the city of Idlib, concluded that the manner of death indicated a SAUDI ARABIA

US embassy remains closed for a third day RIYADH: The United States embassy in Saudi Arabia said it would remain closed to the public for a third day Tuesday because of “security concerns”.

Consular services had initially been suspended on Sunday and Monday but the closure will continue for an extra day, a notice on the embassy website said. “Due to heightened security concerns at US diplomatic facilities in Saudi Arabia, consular services will continue to be cancelled at the US embassy in Riyadh and consulates general in Jeddah and Dhahran on Tuesday,” it said.

Security concerns Officials have not elaborated.

“We found it advisable not to open to the public because of our security concerns,” embassy press officer Johann Schmonsees told AFP. The embassy warned US citizens to take extra precautions and keep a low profile if they are out in public. — AFP

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gas, possibly chlorine, had been emitted from the barrel bombs.

Sarmin’s local coordinating committee, an activist group, said chlorine gas had been used and published videos of a chaotic field hospital where disoriented victims coughed and held gas masks over their faces as children cried in the background. It also published videos of people trying to

revive three young children who lay motionless in the field hospital.

They appeared pale and covered in sweat, with dark circles around their eyes and a clear liquid coming out of their noses and mouths.

The three children, who all appeared to be no older than three, were pronounced dead. Pictures of their tiny bodies wrapped in white cloth were shared widely on social media.

Activists have accused the Syrian regime of using chlorine -- a toxic agent that can be considered a chemical weapon -- on civilian areas in the past. — AFP

Egyptian policeman charged CAIRO: An Egyptian police officer was charged on Tuesday over the fatal shooting of Shaimaa Sabbagh, a woman protester whose death caused international outrage when footage of it spread online in January.

Sabbagh was shot in Cairo during protests a day before the anniversary of the uprising that ousted leader Hosni Mubarak in 2011.

The public prosecutor referred the case for trial in a criminal court, a rare action against a member of the security forces.

“The public prosecution’s investigation uncovered that the death of (Sabbagh) occurred after she was hit with birdshot which one of the police officers of Central Security Forces fired in the direction of her and other protesters to break

up a demonstration in Talaat Harb square,” the prosecutor’s statement said.

The officer, who remained unidentified, is accused of an action that “led to the death of” Sabbagh - a lesser charge than murder. Lawyers said that depending on which article of the penal code is applied to him, the sentence could range from three to 10 years. — Reuters

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W EDN ESDAY, MARCH 18, 2015

INDIA

We have called for the shutdown of businesses and shops in this town to support the nun... and for the immediate arrest of the culprits Samiran Paul, Local business association spokesman

S TA S H E D A B R O A D

Cabinet approves bill on black money NEW DELHI: Giving concrete shape to the announcement on recovering black money stashed away abroad by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in his budget last month, the union cabinet on Tuesday approved a new law to track the hidden wealth.

Finance ministry sources said

that the union cabinet on Tuesday approved the Foreign Income and Undisclosed Assets (Imposition of New Tax) Bill, 2015, for tabling in the Lok Sabha. “On black money, a new structure including e-filing and tracking down is our abiding commitment,” Jaitley had said in his budget speech on February 28. -IANS

LANDSLIDES LEAVE 5,OOO STRANDED

A flood- affected family living in a tent as it snows at Kakapora in Pulwama district of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. More than 5,000 people continue to remain stranded at various places on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway for the second consecutive day on Tuesday after the surface link connecting the Valley with the rest of the country remained closed. The highway has suffered a lot of damage due to massive landslides triggered by rains and snowfall. -PTI

‘Most favoured nation status if dialogue begins’ Despite India according the MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, Basit said his country had been reluctant to reciprocate owing to the ‘massive’ adverse balance of trade with India

KOLKATA: Asserting that Pakistan would confer India the status of most favoured nation (MFN) once the dialogue process resumed, Pakistan High Commissioner to India Abdul Basit on Tuesday claimed that his country had almost extended the facility in March 2014 before it was informally conveyed to wait.

“Pakistan was about to extend the MFN status to India in March

UPBEAT: Basit Ali

2014, but it was informally told, since it was an election year, it would be better if Pakistan waited and extended the facility after the polls,” Basit said during a Calcutta Chamber of Commerce organised event here.

Asserting that Pakistan was keen to multiply its trade volume with India, he said the MFN status, now rechristened as nondiscriminatory market access (NDMA), will be extended to India once the talks between the two countries resumed.

“As soon as India and Pakistan resume the dialogue process, Pakistan will extend the facility. Its just a matter of time.. In fact Pakistan is almost decide to extend the

MFN after the dialogues begin,” he said. Despite India according the MFN status to Pakistan in 1996, Basit said his country had been reluctant to reciprocate owing to the “massive” adverse balance of trade with India.

“Bilateral trade now stands at $2.7 billion with Pakistan export to India accounting just $0.4 billion. While we would certainly like to see the bilateral trade to grow, there are practical problems that need to be sorted out.

“There’s visa problems, connectivity is very poor, and then there are the non-tariff barriers.

So, if there is a political will, then all these can be sorted out.

“That is why it is imperative for the dialogue process to resume and continue,” he said.

Lamenting poor connectivity, Basit also called for enhancing investment opportunities in both countries.

“It’s not only trade, what is imperative is we need to create investment opportunities in both the countries. At present such opportunities are almost negligible.

“I would also urge Indian government and private airlines to resume and start operations to and from Pakistan. Right now we have just three flights connecting India and Pakistan,” he noted. - IANS

CHARTER OF DEMANDS

PM’s brother attacks BJP government NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s younger brother Prahlad Modi on Tuesday lashed out at the BJP government at the Centre, saying it has “failed” to live up to peoples’ expectations and lacked will to resolve their problems.

Prahlad participated at a protest here at the Jantar Mantar organised by the All India Fair Price Shop Federation, of which he is the vice-president, to press for their charter of demands where he attacked BJP and its government.

“You worked hard to ensure that it (BJP) gets majority in the Lok Sabha and still you have to come to Jantar Mantar to stage a dharna. I think it is a failure of the NDA government,” he said.

Referring to Modi, he said “What I am doing is not revolt of a brother against a brother.

For me my brother is worth worshiping. I respect him. But I am in a profession and had to come to this platform to raise my voice before my brother.”

Nurture graft Making a veiled attack on the Modi government on the issue of corruption, he alleged that almost all national political parties nurture graft.

“Now when the Narendra Modi has government has come to power with the message of fighting corruption, we have been forced to take to the streets,” Prahlad said. - PTI

MINORITIES

Modi deeply concerned over rape of nun as protests flare KOLKATA: Shops and schools in a town in eastern India where an elderly nun was gang-raped closed Tuesday in protest over perceived police inaction, as anger mounts over the “inhuman” crime, business owners said.

Police have detained around 10 people for questioning but no arrests have been made over the Friday attack on the nun, aged in her 70s, the latest in a string of high-profile rapes in India.

The nun was attacked after a gang of half a dozen robbers broke into a convent school near the town of Ranaghat in West Bengal state and ransacked the premises, police say.

“We have called for the shutdown of businesses and shops in this town to support the nun ... and the immediate arrest of the culprits,” said Samiran Paul, a spokesman for the local business association.

“We can’t imagine such inhuman torture on an elderly nun who devoted her life to the service of humanity. It’s a shame to us,” the cloth merchant said.

Vandalism Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the attack, along with a separate incident of vandalism of a partly built church in the northern state of Haryana on Sunday.

“PMO (prime minister’s office) has asked for immediate

DEMANDING JUSTICE: Members of Ananda Marga organisation

take part in a protest rally against a nun’s gangrape in Ranaghat, in Kolkata on Tuesday. - PTI

report on facts and action taken regarding the incidents,” he said in a tweet.

A series of attacks on churches in recent months prompted Modi to promise a crackdown on religious violence and freedom of worship for all faiths.

Modi had been heavily criticised for not speaking out earlier against religious violence and has also faced flak for remaining silent about a spate of mass “reconversions” of minority Christians and Muslims to Hinduism.

Schools closed Rallies and prayer sessions have been held across India since the rape, while West Bengal’s chief

minister, Mamata Banerjee, faced hundreds of angry protesters late Monday when she travelled to meet the nun in Ranaghat.

Teacher Sriparna Dutta said government schools were shuttered in the area for the day because “we are all so shocked”.

Police superintendent Arnab Ghosh said security has been stepped up “in the town and its outskirts to avert any untoward incident during the shutdown”.

The incident also adds to a grim record of rape in India, which this month banned a BBC documentary India’s Daughter about a December 2012 gang-rape that sparked domestic and international outrage. -AFP

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INDIA

Opposition united, determined to defeat land acquisition bill: Sonia Congress chief Sonia Gandhi said that ‘democratic, secular and forward looking forces are determined to defeat the Modi government’s designs’ to promote corporate interests at the cost of farmers by taking away their land

NEW DELHI: The opposition is determined to defeat the government’s controversial land acquisition bill, Congress president Sonia Gandhi declared on Tuesday after leading leaders of 14 political parties in a protest march to the Rashtrapati Bhavan (president’s house).

In the first major display of opposition unity after the 2014 Lok Sabha election, Sonia told the media that they had urged President Pranab Mukherjee not to let the government go ahead with the bill, saying it would badly hurt the interests of farmers.

Sonia said that “democratic, secular and forward looking forces are determined to defeat the (Narendra) Modi government’s designs” to promote corporate interests at the cost of farmers by taking away their land.

The protest that Sonia led drew members of 14 political parties, including her own Congress, Sa-

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SOLIDARITY: Congress President Sonia Gandhi with party col-

league Ghulam Nabi Azad and other opposition leaders during a march from Parliament to Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday in a show of solidarity against the land bill. - PTI

majwadi Party, Janata Dal-United, Janata Dal-Secular, the DMK, the Communists, Trinamool Congress and Nationalist Congress Party.

Former prime minister Manmo-

han Singh also joined the protest.

JD-U leader Sharad Yadav said Tuesday’s protest had brought together all the opposition forces that had got scattered since the

BENGALURU

CBI probe sought into IAS officer’s death BENGALURU: Opposition parties in the Karnataka Assembly on Tuesday made a strong demand for a CBI inquiry into the death of an IAS officer as they suspected it to be a case of murder and not suicide as stated by police.

Raising the issue, Opposition BJP leader and former chief minister Jagadish Shettar demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the death of D K Ravi, Additional Commissioner of Commercial Taxes (Enforcement), saying he suspected it to be a case of murder.

“Looking at the death of the IAS officer, the chief minister should hand over the case to CBI as it appears to be murder instead of suicide as claimed by the police,” he said.

Threat calls Shettar said the IAS officer had been receiving threat calls from influential and powerful builders and underworld dons because he had taken some hard decisions against them.

Ravi, who had taken on the sand and land mafia, had alleg-

cials,” he said. Former chief minister and state JD(S) President H. D. Kumaraswamy also pressed for a CBI enquiry as he suspected it to be a case of murder.

ENRAGED: People stage a protest for a probe into the mysterious

death of IAS officer D K Ravi, in Bengaluru on Tuesday. - PTI

edly committed suicide by hanging from a ceiling fan in his room at his official flat here on Monday after returning home from office in the morning.

Raises suspicion Police have said that prima facie, it was a case of suicide. Shettar also said the incident raises suspicion about the nexus between developers and politicians.

“The government should treat this case as an organised crime,” he said. The government should collect call details of the deceased Indian Administrative Services (IAS) officer to know the truth behind his death and also take steps to prevent destruction of evidence and clues pertaining to the incident, the former chief minister said. “The state government has failed in protecting honest offi-

H E A LT H

India bets on cheap mobile phones to reduce maternal, child mortality

GOOD MOVE: Pregnant women holding their prescription papers wait to be examined at a govern-

ment-run hospital, in Agartala on Tuesday. Amid a scarcity of doctors and public hospitals, India is relying on its mobile telephone network, the second largest in the world with 950 million connections, to reach places where health workers are unable to go. - Reuters

NEW DELHI: India is betting on cheap mobile phones to cut some of the world’s highest rates of maternal and child deaths, as it rolls out a campaign of voice messages delivering health advice to pregnant women and mothers.

Amid a scarcity of doctors and public hospitals, India is relying on its mobile telephone network, the second largest in the world with 950 million connections, to reach places where health workers are unable to go.

“It’s a huge priority for us,” health ministry official Manoj Jhalani said, adding that the service, advising on vaccinations and vitamin supplements, will launch in eight of the country’s Hindispeaking states by August 15.

Cost-effective “These are the most cost-effective health interventions,” said Jhalani, the supervisor of the project, named ‘Kilkari,’ or “Baby’s Gurgle”, which will tailor its

recorded messages to individual stages of pregnancy or the age of a newborn. Poor sanitary conditions and stark poverty prevail in many villages in India, which recorded 50,000 maternal deaths in 2013, when 1.3 million children died before turning five.

Preventable hazards such as pneumonia, or poor nutrition, cause most deaths of mothers and babies. Many women give birth at home without access to clean water and toilets, while public medical clinics remain dilapidated and overcrowded.

Over the last 18 months, almost 100,000 rural families have signed up for the voice message project, first piloted by the government of Bihar.

With India’s health services starved for funds, the mobile phone messages are a cheaper way to spread basic tips on health.

Payment delays have led to months of disruption in the traditional system of home visits

by health workers to encourage pregnant women to take medicine and follow safety measures.

Training The new project, backed by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the charity arm of British broadcaster BBC, will make use of a national database to track pregnant women. Another service, Mobile Academy, will also use recorded messages to help train millions of India’s health workers.

Health experts welcome the initiatives, but warn such mobile phone campaigns will not be enough to cut mortality rates unless India ramps up health services, particularly in rural areas.

“This (mobile services) will have a very marginal effect,” said Dileep Mavalankar, director of the Indian Institute of Public Health in the western state of Gujarat, adding that the health system needed to be strengthened in remote areas. - Reuters

Shocked Senior BJP leader Suresh Kumar said, “People are already suspecting that the politicians and builders are related to this incident.

This incident has shocked the people of the state and the government should take appropriate action to send right message to people and honest officers,” he said.

Former home minister R. Ashoka (BJP) said since the people themselves are demanding that the case be handed over to CBI, the chief minister should honour their demand.

Ashoka flayed city police commissioner M. N. Reddi for terming the incident as a prima facie case of suicide without carrying out any investigation.

“This only raises suspicion that the government is trying to bury the case and cover the crime of some influential and powerful people,” he said. - PTI

Lok Sabha election catapulted the Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party to power.

“This is a land of farmers. It is the farmers who have made this country self-sufficient in food. To snatch their land is a sin,” he said.

“This is the beginning of a major battle that will be waged in every nook and corner of the country,” Yadav said.

Historic march The MPs converged at the Gandhi statue in the parliament complex from where they launched the march, raising slogans like “Kisan Virodhi, Narendra Modi (or antifarmer Narendra Modi)”.

“This is a historic march. All par-

ties are in it together and we hope the Modi government is watching this march,” Trinamool leader Derek O’Brien told reporters.

The opposition parties submitted to the president a memorandum against the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (Amendment) bill, 2015.

Referring to the bill that introduces amendments to the existing act, passed by the UPA government in 2013, Congress MP Jyotiraditya Scindia said: “The clauses which we, the Congress, had inserted for the farmers’ benefit have been taken out.”

The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha earlier this month amid stiff protest.

However, the Narendra Modi government is yet to present it in the Rajya Sabha, where it lacks a majority. -IANS

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W EDN ESDAY, MARCH 18, 2015

PAKISTAN

Please remain peaceful and carry on the struggle against terrorism by forging unity as a nation among ourselves, said Bishop Irfan Jameel

MOURNING: Relatives of convicted murder Muhammad Faisal mourn after his execution in Karachi on Tuesday. — AFP

12 death-row inmates hanged across country The latest hangings bring to 39 the number sent to the gallows since Pakistan resumed executions in December 2014

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Tuesday hanged 12 convicted murderers in prisons across the country, the highest number in a single day since the government lifted a six-year moratorium on capital punishment, officials said.

Ten of the convicts were hanged in the populous Punjab province, while two others were executed in the southern metropolis of Karachi, according to prison officials who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The latest hangings bring to 39 the number sent to the gallows since Pakistan resumed executions in December after Taliban militants gunned down more than 150 people, most of them INSURGENCY

Two female polio staffers, policeman killed in NW PESHAWAR: Gunmen on Tuesday killed two female polio workers and a police guard in northwest Pakistan, the latest in a spate of deadly attacks on the immunisation teams.

Police said two attackers fired at the workers as they gave polio drops to children in the mountainous Sheikhabad area, 60 kilometres (37 miles) northeast of the city of Mansehra.

Afghan refugee camp “The two-member team was administering polio drops in an Afghan refugee camp and its surrounding areas when two gunmen opened fire on them, killing one lady worker and a policeman and wounding another lady worker and a passerby,” local police chief Muhammad Ejaz Khan told AFP. He said the second woman polio worker later died of her wounds. Another senior local police official, Akhtar Hayat, confirmed the incident and casualties.

Pakistan is one of only three countries where polio remains endemic. Attempts to eradicate it have been badly hit by militant attacks on immunisation teams that have claimed 77 lives since December 2012. — AFP

children, at a school in the restive northwest.

The partial lifting of the moratorium, which began in 2008, initially only applied to those convicted of terrorism offences, but was last week extended to all capital offences.

In Punjab, three murder convicts were executed from the central town of Jhang, two from Rawalpindi near the capital, two from Mianwali, one from Multan, one from Faisalabad, and one from Gujranwala. Two other executions planned for Tuesday were stayed by courts.

Shuja Khanzada, home minister for Punjab, confirmed the executions in his province and told AFP that more were scheduled in coming days.

“Today 10 convicts were hanged in different jails of the province,” Khanzada said, adding that further executions would be carried out for those “whose mercy petitions have been rejected”.

Among those due to be hanged is Shafqat Hussain, who was condemned to death as a teenager for killing a seven-year-old boy in 2004.

Authorities said he would be executed on Thursday after a court dismissed his appeal.

Hussain’s case has triggered outrage from rights campaigners, who complain he did not get a fair

trial and say he was only 15 at the time of the killing. He had been due to face the noose on January 14, but the government halted the execution amid protests about his age and ordered a new investigation to determine how old he was.

Jail officials said last week the interior ministry had rejected the plea and a fresh death warrant had been issued, but on Tuesday his family and lawyers were still trying to persuade the authorities to stop the execution.

Just a child Maya Foa, director of the death penalty team of Reprieve, a British legal charity that is working with Hussain’s lawyers, said time to save him was “running out”.

Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan “has the opportunity to save the life of someone tortured into ‘confessing’ to a crime when he was just a child, and to conduct the full inquiry into his case that he promised,” she said.

Human rights group Amnesty International estimates that Pakistan has more than 8,000 prisoners on death row, most of whom have exhausted the appeals process. Only one person was executed during the period of the moratorium -- a soldier convicted by a court martial and sent to the gallows in 2012. — AFP

U N D E R A S S A U LT

Funerals held for victims of Lahore church bombings LAHORE: Pakistani Christians held funerals amidst tight security on Tuesday for the victims of twin Taliban suicide attacks that targeted churches two days earlier in the worst attack on the minority group in over a year.

As many as seventeen people died as a result of the suicide bombings in the Youhanabad district of Lahore, with more than 70 wounded.

Two men were later lynched by an angry mob who suspected they were militants, though authorities Tuesday announced they were investigating claims by relatives of one of the men that he was an innocent shopkeeper caught up in the fracas.

Two days of rioting The attack also sparked two days of rioting by thousands of Christians who clashed with water canon-wielding police, blocked roads and forced a partial shutdown of the city’s public bus system.

At least two Christians were also killed on Monday when a panicked female motorist drove through a crowd of protesters, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan told parliament on Tuesday, revising an earlier figure of one death in the incident.

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Around a dozen people were also injured.

In low-income Youhanabad, home to more than 100,000 Christians, police and paramilitary rangers were preventing outsiders from entering.

“We have deployed more than 5,000 policemen and paramilitary rangers,” senior police official Haider Ashraf told AFP. Appeal for calm Shops were closed as grieving residents made their way toward the burial grounds, while senior priest Bishop Irfan Jameel appealed for calm.

“Please remain peaceful and carry on the struggle against terrorism by forging unity as a nation among ourselves,” Jameel said, adding that a memorial would be built to honour the “martyrs of Youhanabad”.

Punjab home minister Shuja Khanzada meanwhile told AFP the government was hunting the culprits of the attack. — AFP

W E D N E S DAY, MAR C H 1 8, 2 0 1 5 The proposed reforms will put the IMF’s finances on more stable footing over the long term, help modernise the IMF’s governance structure, and preserve America’s strong leadership role in shaping the institution Jacob Lew, US Treasury Secretary

WORLD

90% of ‘technical issues’ in nuclear talks solved: Iran

N O T I M E TA B L E G I V E N

Qatar vows to reform its labour system DOHA: Qatar has said it will push ahead with reforming its controversial “kafala” labour system without giving a timetable for when this will happen.

Abdullah Saleh Mubarak Al Khulaifi, the minister of labour and social affairs, was quoted by local daily The Peninsula as saying there would be no going back on a promise to change the law.

Under kafala, employers can prevent foreign workers from changing jobs or leaving the country. Long criticised by rights groups, it the system has become a focus of criticism since Qatar was awarded the 2022 football World Cup. Doha has said it will replace the system with one based instead on employment contracts.

“Qatar has fulfilled all its legal obligations in the past and will do so in the future as well,” Khulaifi said.

Khulaifi, who was speaking at a foreign ministry event Monday, said the term “sponsorship” would also be abolished under the new legislation.

But it was unclear when that might happen.

The official Qatar News Agency, referring to the reform, quoted the minister as saying it is not possible to give a certain date. — AFP

ons under the guise of its civilian programme.

The accord, due to be finalised

by July, would involve Iran, which denies wanting the bomb, agreeing to scale down its nuclear activities to within strict limits in return for relief from sanctions suffocating its economy.

The accord, due to be finalised by July, would involve Iran, which denies wanting the bomb, agreeing to scale down its nuclear activities to within strict limits in

NEGOTIATIONS: US Secretary of State John Kerry, left, holds a

return for relief from

meeting with Iran’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, right, over Iran’s nuclear programme in Lausanne on Tuesday. — AFP/POOL/Brian Snyder

sanctions suffocating its economy

LAUSANNE (SWITZERLAND): Uncertainty reigned at crunch US-Iran nuclear talks Tuesday as US officials warned that key differences remained but Tehran said that almost all technical issues were resolved ahead of a

March 31 deadline for the outlines of a deal.

“We have agreed on 90 per cent of the technical issues,” Iran’s nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi was quoted by state television as saying from the marathon negotiations inside a plush hotel in the Swiss lakeside city of Lausanne.

“In most of the issues we have come to mutual agreements -we have differences only in one

DECREASING FINANCIAL CLOUT

Not approving IMF reforms will risk US credibility: Lew WASHINGTON: The credibility of the United States is at risk if Congress fails to approve International Monetary Fund quota and governance reforms, Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew warned Tuesday.

“Critically, we are seeking Congressional approval of the IMF quota and governance reforms,” Lew told a hearing of the House of Representatives financial services committee, according to the prepared text. “Our international credibility and influence are being threatened.”

For more than two years the US Congress has prevented the 2010 IMF reforms from taking effect.

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The US is the only member country with veto power over major IMF decisions. The reforms would give more weight to emerging-market powers, like China, and double the Fund’s permanent financial resources.

That impasse has raised the ire of China and other countries which would benefit from a power structure more representative of the current global economy.

Continued failure “Our continued failure to approve the IMF quota and governance reforms is causing other countries, including some of our allies, to question our commitment to the

IMF and other multilateral institutions that we worked to create and that advance important US and global economic and security interests.”

Separate bank The BRICS -- Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa -- announced their own development bank in 2014, and China recently led the launch of a separate institution, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. “The IMF reforms will help convince emerging economies to remain anchored in the multilateral system that the United States helped design and continues to lead,” Lew said.— AFP

major issue which we will try to solve in this evening’s meeting” between Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and US Secretary of State John Kerry, Salehi said.

The deal being sought by Kerry, Zarif and other negotiators including Salehi and US Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz will, they hope, convince the world that Iran will not develop nuclear weap-

12-year standoff If they manage it and the accord holds, both sides hope it will end a 12-year standoff and potentially help normalise Iran’s international relations at a particularly volatile time in the Middle East.

But it is highly complex, with both sides haggling over the adjustments to Iran’s facilities needed to extend the “breakout” time to at least a year that Tehran would -- in theory -- need to process a bomb’s worth of nuclear material.

Spider’s web of sanctions At the same time both sides need to agree a timetable of relief from the spider’s web of UN, US and EU sanctions imposed in recent years, tied to certain “milestones” and staggered over whatever duration the accord will have.

As a result US negotiators in the marathon talks were more downbeat, with one senior administration official -- involved in the technical side of the negotiations -- saying Tuesday there was still “a ways to go”.

The official said on condition of anonymity that, specifically concerning technical dimensions, “even in this space we still have some tough issues to address.”

Rubik’s Cube A second US official said on Monday that “this is a Rubik’s Cube or a puzzle ... and until all the pieces click into place, you don’t have the whole picture, since this is all interlocking elements that affect each other.”

Zarif and Kerry held almost five hours of talks on Monday before Zarif went to and from Brussels -- while Kerry went for a bike ride -- to meet European foreign ministers and EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini.

Zarif and Kerry met again on Tuesday. Political directors from the other five powers involved -- Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany -- began arriving in Lausanne on Tuesday and were due to meet on Wednesday, the EU said. — AFP

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W EDN ESDAY, MARCH 18, 2015

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Death sentences in US with or without a jury

THE INDEPENDENT

I

n the states that continue to put their own citizens to death, virtually every part of the process is warped by injustice and absurdity.

In Florida and Alabama in the United States, death row inmates are challenging perverse state laws on the jury’s role in capital trials.

The Supreme Court, which has been intervening more often in death penalty cases, last week agreed to review the Florida law. In death penalty trials, juries that reach a guilty verdict are usually required in the trial’s subsequent penalty phase to make factual findings, such as whether the crime was especially heinous, that will determine whether the defendant is sentenced to death.

But Florida lets the judge make these findings, and does not require that the jury be unanimous in voting for a death sentence. After Timothy Lee Hurst was found guilty of a 1998 murder of a co-worker in Pensacola, his jury split 7 to 5 in favour of executing him, with no record of whether the majority even agreed on the reason. Hurst was effectively condemned by a single vote by an unidentified juror.

Alabama also allows death to be decided by a single vote: that of the judge, who may override a jury verdict of life in prison and replace it with a death sentence, relegating the jury’s status to that of an advisory body. The Supreme Court declined to hear a challenge to the Alabama law in 2013, prompting a sharp dissent from Justice Sonia Sotomayor.

She concluded that the state’s judges, who are elected — and who have unilaterally imposed death sentences 101 times after the jury voted for life — “appear to have succumbed to electoral pressures.”

This disregard for the jury’s role is all the more offensive given the Supreme Court’s reliance on jury verdicts as a key measure of America’s “evolving standards of decency,” the test it uses to decide whether a punishment is so cruel and unusual that it violates the Constitution.

How can those “evolving standards” be accurately measured if the “verdicts” for death are so deeply divided or are in fact imposed by a judge who is rejecting the jury’s call to spare a life? The Florida and Alabama jury laws are only more proof of the moral disgrace of capital punishment in this country. In Georgia, officials hide their lethal-injection drug protocol behind state-secret laws. Missouri has executed an inmate before the Supreme Court ruled on his final appeal. Texas has been trying for years to kill a man suffering from paranoid schizophrenia. Until capital punishment is abolished nationwide, the United States will remain a notorious exception in a world that has largely rejected state-sanctioned killing. - The New York Times News Service

EINSTEIN’S MASTERWORK

One hundred years of the relativity theory SABINE HOSSENFELDER

Frustrations boil over

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ith at least one person being killed on March 16 in the violent protests that followed the church bombings in Lahore, one thing at least is clear — the Christians have had enough. Despite being persecuted and terrorised for decades, marginalised and discriminated against (as have every other minority group in Pakistan), they have mostly suffered in silence. Their homes have been torched, they have seen a baying mob throw a couple into a brick kiln to burn alive on a specious claim of blasphemy, they have left the country in droves and watched mutely as crosses hung with shoes are paraded through their neighbourhoods. They have listened to the pious platitudes of assorted political leaders after every atrocity — and last Sunday it all boiled over.

The immediate aftermath of the bombings saw rampaging mobs attacking the Lahore Metro Bus system causing significant damage, and pictures have emerged of the burning bodies of two men captured by the mob who were allegedly involved in the bombings. Violent protests continued the following day. Police claims to have been on duty at the entrances to the churches do not stand up to scrutiny and calls

by Christian leaders for calm have been completely ignored. There can be no condoning of this behaviour, no matter the provocation and the provocation was indeed extreme, but the frustrations of generations were unleashed.

Those frustrations are likely to be present in other minority communities, and although the minorities in general have no history of mass acts of violence a dangerous precedent has now been set. There were demonstrations in other cities as well, although none as violent as in Lahore. The government needs to stop shilly-shallying and move against those who bomb churches and other places of worship, and spout hatred from loudspeakers, inciting violence on the flimsiest of pretexts — or bereft of pretext beyond a difference of faith. For too long the mealy-mouthed expressions of support for minorities have been the stereotypical response of successive governments. Those bitten have now bitten back, the consequences of which are unlikely to be either peaceful or constructive. - The Express Tribune

Internet service in Oman is both expensive and slow This refers to the news story, Omantel rolls out fibre-to-thehome (March 17). Honestly, I have not been much encouraged. The internet service in Oman is not only expensive but also abysmally slow. I often feel frustrated by its slowness. This apart, the service often gets disrupted and takes a long time to get back to normal.

D. B. Narang Muscat

Sohar is in dire need of a second Indian school This refers to the news story, 1,900 students on waiting list for admission (March 17). The Indian community in Oman is growing every year. Most of the Indians who are here in the Sultanate prefer stay-

ing with family. Naturally, demand for schools for their children are on the rise. In Muscat, the situation is still better than what we face out here in Sohar. There are a number of Indian schools in Muscat but we have only one in Sohar. I am afraid, very soon the school will not be able anymore to accommodate the children of Indians here. In fact, it is time now to think of starting another Indian school in Sohar.

Rachana Nigote Sohar

Even Kapil Dev surprised India by wining World Cup Indian cricket legend Kapil Dev has said that he was surprised to see the performance of Indian cricket team at the ICC World Cup. He did not expect the men in blue to win

Einstein’s theory not only describes our universe, from the Big Bang to black holes; it has also taught physicists the relevance of geometry and symmetry — lessons that spread from particle physics to crystallography

T

his year marks the centenary of Albert Einstein’s general theory of relativity, his masterwork describing gravity as the curvature of space and time. Yet, as is often true in science, Einstein’s insights have provided physicists with as many questions as they have answered. Finding solutions that fulfil Einstein’s equations — spacetimes that describe the curvature of our universe — is difficult, so his theory was slow to catch on.

Scientists carrying out early studies and the first crucial tests were forced to use approximations. It took decades to develop techniques to classify and derive new solutions.

Today, however, many solutions are known, and other thorny problems, such as the gravitational field of two colliding stars, can be explored using computers to carry out the numerical calculations.

Einstein’s theory not only describes our universe, from the Big Bang to black holes; it has also taught physicists the relevance of geometry and symmetry — lessons that spread from particle physics to crystallography. But, despite the similarities that Einstein’s theory has with other theories in physics, it stands apart by its refusal to fit together with quantum mechanics, the theory that explains the dominant behaviour of matter at the atomic and subatomic scale.

Clearly, there is something about the combination of quantum theory and gravity that remains unknown, and our understanding of space, time, and matter hinges on unravelling this connection.

Finding a description of gravity that is compatible with our understanding of quantum physics would revolutionise cosmology, yield new insights into the first moments of our universe, and provide a deeper understanding of the theories on which all of modern physics is based. But, despite the enormous potential impact of such a breakthrough and the efforts of generations of physicists to achieve it, we still do not know which theory is the right one.

Contrary to how it may feel when you try to get out of bed in the morning, gravity is by far the weakest fundamental force of all we have identified. It takes only the static repulsion of a few electrons to make your hair stand up, overcoming the gravitational pull of the entire planet.

In the atomic and subatomic world, gravity is irrelevant compared to what else is going on, all of which can be described by quantum theories.

Gravity’s weakness makes it very difficult to measure its quantum effects; as a result, we have no experimental data to guide theoretical physi-

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cists in the development of the missing theory.

Detecting a “graviton” — the hypothetical particle making up part of a gravitational field — would require a particle collider the size of the Milky Way or a detector with a mass of the planet Jupiter.

That is why, over the last decade, physicists have begun to look for indirect evidence of quantum gravity. Rather than seeking to detect a quantum of the gravitational field, researchers are looking for other effects that would imply that gravity is quantised. These tests work much like those that use the stability of atoms as indirect evidence for the quantisation of the electromagnetic force. For example, some scientists are searching for evidence of quantum fluctuations of space-time that could blur images of distant stars or lead to systematic distortions. Others are looking for violations of certain symmetries that could enable normally forbidden particle decays, unexplained noise in gravitational wave detectors, or inexplicable loss of quantum coherence.

So far, these attempts have failed to detect the sought-after evidence. Nonetheless, they have led to important developments, because the negative results have ruled out some plausible hypotheses.

And, though researchers may not have found results supporting any one theory, they have advanced the cause of science by better defining the observational criteria any quantum theory of gravity will have to take into account. As we commemorate Einstein’s achievement, we should also seize the opportunity to celebrate the unrelenting spirit of those who are pushing ahead and trying to answer the questions his theory left us.

That quest has blossomed into astonishingly fruitful research areas like cosmology, numerical general relativity, and quantum gravity.

General Relativity has brought us wormholes, evaporating black holes, and the Big Bang theory; it underlies the discovery that the universe is expanding and that so-called exoplanets are much more common than anybody thought; and it has utterly redefined the way we think of our own place in the universe, ultimately even calling into question whether this universe is the only one. None of these advances would have been possible had researchers been operating according to the three-year plans that characterise much of current academia.

So this year is perhaps a good moment to appreciate the visionaries who have understood that sustainable progress relies on the development of new and better theories whose impact may not be fully grasped for decades — indeed, that may continue to ramify 100 years later. – Project Syndicate

all the six matches at the league level and move up to the quarter finals. Well, with no hard feelings towards the legend, I would like to point out that when he and his team won the World Cup it too was a surprise if not a miracle. No way did we think India would move to the final and defeat the mighty West Indians. Honestly speaking, I don’t subscribe what Kapil has said and I am not surprised like him to see the stunning performance of Dhoni’s men. India deserves to win the cup this year too.

Ashok Panicker Seeb

website: www.newindiaoman.com

Bangladesh may put up a spirited fight against India

An unpopular rule is never long maintained SENECA

I am sure the Indian team are not feeling complacency about facing Bangladesh in the quarter

final match in ICC World Cup. In fact, Bangladesh may turn out to be a tough competitor and will certainly put up a spirited fight against India. But given the form that the Indian players are in at present, defeating Bangladesh will not be a major problem for India.

But India needs to be cautious.

D. N. Sharma Darsait

South African team will choke and lose again I think the possibility of South Africa’s winning the ICC World Cup 2015 is ruled out. The team has the potential in an ample measure. But their track record shows that the team will choke at a very critical moment.

P. N. Balu Ruwi

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T IM ES O F OM A N

W E D N E S DAY, MAR C H 1 8, 2 0 1 5

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PERSPEC IVE Can India’s GOP, the Congress, reinvent itself?

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hivam Vij of Scroll has got a cute solution to the existential crisis facing the Congress: Get Rahul Gandhi married: “What would have been Rahul Gandhi’s fate if he had been an ‘aam aadmi’ instead of the Gandhi scion? At 44, his family would have forced him to get married, or get out of the house and stop being a no-good dependent. Marriage will at least turn around his public image. He will be seen as someone who is “settling down”, that favourite phrase of South Asian parents.”

Sensible, if gratuitous, piece of advice! Seriously though what could the grand old party do to arrest its fall? The crisis of credibility that it battles today is perhaps the gravest since its immaculate conception in 1888 by an English bureaucrat. And if it does not act and act soon to reinvent itself, it risks painting itself into complete irrelevance in the not too distant future. The humiliating debacle that the grand old party suffered at the hands of an upstart like AAP in the recent Delhi polls, being reduced to zero, is easily the worst in its history. What is more, the worse may be yet to come as the party battles an all-consuming BJP and aggressive AAP on the one hand and dissent and complete demoralization in its ranks on the other. So Rahul Gandhi couldn’t have chosen a worse time to go on leave. To do what?

To “reflect on recent events and future course of the party,” as a Press statement put it. Poor Rahul! He exerts and works himself up so much for the party that he needs a break abroad every few months.

And after all the painstaking effort and dedication that he has invested in taking the party of Gandhi, Nehru and Azad to the stage where it finds itself today, he does deserve a break!

Can the Congress afford such leadership breaks right when it is passing through an acute identity crisis and dejection at every level? Leadership is a full-time job and responsibility. Leaders do not take breaks or run away to the hills in the middle of critical battles. There are exceptions of course.

Some can lead and guide even when they are not physically present. Not the Congress’s heir apparent though who has been unwilling or unable to lead even when he’s present in flesh and blood.

For all his years of leadership in parliament, he spoke only twice. Most of the time, it’s been as if he was there as an observer or as a guest who didn’t want to be there in the first place. Bored, disinterested and totally lost! Once he was even caught napping in the august house. Outside parliament, his

AIJAZ ZAKA SYED

Leadership is a full-time job and responsibility.

Leaders do not take breaks or run away to the hills in the middle of critical battles.

There are exceptions of course

contribution has been even less discernible. Pitted against the ubiquitous and unabashed promotion of the Brand Modi with the candidate constantly traversing the length and breadth of the country, delivering thousands of carefully crafted speeches, the Congress party did not even offer a name or face for the most important job. The party that ruled India for more than five decades today cannot even claim the leader of opposition’s role in parliament.

The endless pageantry of scams and paralysis of the UPA government in the last years of Manmohan Singh of course did not help. But if there’s a single factor that defines the Congress’s woes, it is the ‘leadership’ or lack of it. Of course, defeat and victory are part of the game. There are plenty of examples when political parties after being routed have made impressive comebacks. They did so by analysing their failings and taking bold steps to address them.

The Congress’s own history could prove instructive. After the decline and split of the party in 1969 and near complete rout in 1977 polls, Indira Gandhi scripted most impressive comebacks. But she had to work hard for those victories.

She went back to the people, seeking their forgiveness and by making necessary course corrections. She rejuvenated the Congress to return to power when both she and her party had been totally written off. Although I am not a huge fan, it must be acknowledged that Indira Gandhi never gave up or gave in, even when she was in her advanced years.

The Congress can repeat that history all over again. It has an illustrious past and impressive, grassroots level support base that reflects and represents the colourful diversity of the nation. What it needs is the leadership with a vision and willingness to lead. And if Rahul Gandhi is unwilling and unable to offer it, he should just step aside and make way for others. In the interest of Indian democracy and the grave, unprecedented challenges facing the republic, the Congress must get its act together. In the face of rising right-wing extremism that threatens the very identity and character of the republic and its constitution, India more than ever needs a responsible political force and movement that stands up for the nation’s diversity, pluralism and tolerance.

The author is an award-winning journalist based in Dubai. All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of Times of Oman.

This will devastate adult education in UK

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etitions don’t make it to the front pages often, though it seems to help if they’re about a mildly racist old man who was supposedly violent because of some food.

When they’re about adults still being given opportunities in education they tend to fall far down the list.

At the end of last month, the Government outlined their plans for adult further education. Excluding funding for apprenticeships, the budget for 2015/16 will be cut by 24 per cent.

That’s 24 per cent of the funding for adults who want to gain a better education later in life.

What’s more, it’s on top of a previous 35 per cent cut to the Adult Skills Budget, which has already made it harder for people to access higher adult education.

The University and College Union (UCU) has estimated that this cut could lead to a loss of 400,000 college students — and according to them, this is a conservative estimate.

In a statement from the Association of Colleges, their Chief Executive went so far

JAMES TENNENT

as to say “By 2020, if the next Government continues to cut at this rate, adult further education will be effectively a thing of the past.

This will mean an end to courses which help people in their early 20s find a job and to GCSE and A Level-equivalent professional courses for those that missed out at school.”

In response, the UCU, supported by all the major teaching and students’ unions, has set up a petition calling “upon the government not to implement these cuts and to instead invest properly in lifelong learning opportunities for all.”

But it seems this was a less interesting petition than one about making sure a millionaire kept his job.

The opportunity to learn, to better oneself through education, is surely a right for anyone no matter their age.

What’s particularly scary is that such a drastic cut seems to be taking place under the radar.

If it was cuts to secondary schooling there would have been an uproar, but for adults who weren’t able to get the education they feel they needed,

to lose the opportunity now is quite fine.

No one seems interested in what this will do to the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in our society.

This is more than likely why the sector is primed for cuts: they can go relatively unnoticed.

What is most affecting are the stories that this petition has brought up, a scroll through the comments shows us why adult further education is important.

“I went through the process myself, without funding I would still be unemployed, not being a positive contributing member to society,” says one.

Education is something that everyone should have access to, regardless of age, means or background.

Cutting funding to adult further education bars adults from the opportunities they need to succeed and be part of the working world.

If a petition to return a punching climate-change denier back to our screens can reach just under a million, surely one to save people’s futures can do better. – The Independent

Flash point Ferguson CHARLES M. BLOW

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erguson, Mo., is once again a flash point in this nation’s struggle to come to grips with itself, as its citizens are embroiled in a profound conversation about bias, policing, the criminal justice system, civil rights and social justice.

The Department of Justice has released its scathing report documenting widespread racial targeting of citizens with fine and tickets.

The city manager, the police chief and a judge cited in the report have stepped down.

Cases will now be adjudicated outside the corrupt system described in the report. According to an article last week in The Times: “The Missouri Supreme Court, citing the need for ‘extraordinary action’ to restore trust in Ferguson’s court system after the Department of Justice blasted it for routinely violating constitutional rights, assigned a state appeals court judge on Monday to oversee all municipal cases.”

But unfortunately, two police officers have also been shot in Ferguson. (The officers were treated at a hospital and released.)

All of it has caused the nation’s attention to once again turn to this small town and the sustained protests there.

Sometimes we understandably want justice to come quickly — but justice, if it is to be permanent, often inches forward. For those in the grip of injustice, toiling in the shadow of oppression, the wait can be nearly unbearable. But that hasn’t necessarily happened in this case.

It could be argued that the protest movement born in Ferguson in the wake of the killing of Michael Brown by Darren Wilson — a movement that quickly expanded from a focus on a single case to a sprawling indictment of the system — has been one of the most successful in recent history, both in terms of the speed at which it has garnered results and the breadth of those results.

And yet, that progress has been tarnished by flashes of violence. That doesn’t have to be the case. There is a moral continuity that bridges and binds all people of good conscience.

There is universal condemnation of predation. No one should ever be targeted for harm. No cause can turn wrong to right. Violence can never be liberated from its inherent abhorrence.

As the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wrote in the 1967 book “Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?”: “The ultimate weakness of violence is that it is a descending spiral, begetting the

very thing it seeks to destroy.

Instead of diminishing evil, it multiplies it.” King continued, “Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars.

Darkness cannot drive out darkness: Only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: Only love can do that.”

Violence is weakness masquerading as strength. It is a crude statement of depravity voiced by the unethical and impolitic. It reduces humanity rather than lifts it.

The violent must find no asylum in the assembly of the righteous. We can and must stand up to injustice and against vigilante justice simultaneously.

(Authorities announced Sunday that an arrest had been made in the shootings.

The prosecutor insisted the suspect had been a “demonstrator” — a fact that protest leaders denied — although the prosecutor did acknowledge that the shooter said he had a dispute with people in front of the police department “which had nothing to do with the demonstrations that were going on.”)

To those peaceful protesters who eschew violence as much as the rest of us, we must say: Hold tight. Be encouraged, steadfast and unmovable. We know the fatigue that builds from feeling that one must always fight.

But your efforts are not in vain. This is your moment.

History has heard you, and justice is coming to meet you.

And we can do as a nation what those protesters have shown us can be done. We can elevate dialogue so that racial realities — both interpersonal and structural — can be acknowledged and remedies developed and implemented.

We can register indignation while preserving civility. On “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” President Obama put it this way: “What had been happening in Ferguson was oppressive and objectionable and was worthy of protest. But there was no excuse for criminal acts. And whoever fired those shots shouldn’t detract from the issue — they’re criminals.

They need to be arrested. And then what we need to do is to make sure that like-minded, good-spirited people on both sides — law enforcement who have a terrifically tough job and people who understandably don’t want to be stopped and harassed just because of their race — that we’re able to work together to try to come up with some good answers.”

We can honour the lives of police officers — and applaud them when proper service is rendered — and at the same time marvel at the persistence and efficacy of the protesters who have gotten the nation’s attention and gotten results. - The New York Times News Service

Cyclone-ravaged Vanuatu appeals for help Papua new guinea Solomon Islands Vanuatu Fiji Australia New Caledonia (Fra) 1000km

New Zealand

Vanuatu (Formerly known as New Hebrides) Area Population

260,000

GDP: $828m. One of world’s poorest nations

Torres Islands

Cyclone path Very destructive winds Destructive winds

12,190 sq km

Banks Islands

President Baldwin Lonsdale

Eleven people killed.

Death toll expected to rise

Luganville Shepherd Islands Efate Island Port Vila: Around 90% of houses destroyed or severely damaged.

Population: 47,000 100km

Source: UNOCHA, World Bank, UN

OPINION POLL

37

The Roman Senate annuls Tiberius’ will and proclaims Caligula emperor.

1874

Hawaii signs a treaty giving exclusive trading rights with the islands to the United States.

Do you think that people in Oman have been waiting too long for metered taxis?

1913

Greek King George I is killed by an assassin. Constantine I is to succeed.

1916

On the Eastern Front, the Russians counter the Verdun assault with an attack at Lake Naroch. The Russians lose 100,000 men and the Germans lose 20,000.

South Pacific Ocean Mar 12, 02:00 (Mar 11, 15:00GMT)

Espiritu Santo

TODAY IN HISTORY

International Aid Australia $3.8m Britain $2.95m New Zealand $1.8m Mar 13, 20:00 Erromango Island Tanna Island: “Utter devastation” with most homes destroyed Population: 29,000 Mar 14, 19:00 (Mar 14, 08:00) Aneityum Island

1922

Mahatma Gandhi is sentenced to six years in prison for civil disobedience in India.

HISTORYNET.COM Graphic News /

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FROM OUR ARCHIVES OMAN TO HOST MEETING ON HIGHER EDUCATION

MUSCAT: The Sultanate will host the fifth meeting of the ministers of higher education in the Arab Gulf Cooperation Council (AGCC) countries and the preparatory meeting of undersecretaries of the ministries from February 26 to 28. The meeting will discuss several topics including cooperation in higher education and scientific research. It will also review several topics and recommendations of the fourth meeting of the AGCC ministers of higher education, hosted by Bahrain.

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The battle to retake Tikrit will be difficult because of the preparations (IS) made Jawwad Al Etlebawi, Spokesman for Asaib Ahl Al Haq, a militia

Vanuatu food shortages imminent SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY VISIT

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Relief agencies say

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conditions are among the most challenging they have faced, with mounting concerns about disease

PORT VILA (VANUATU): Vanuatu warned on Tuesday it faces imminent food shortages as accounts emerged of huge damage to a large outer island, days after one of the fiercest cyclones on record pummelled the Pacific archipelago.

Relief agencies say conditions are among the most challenging they have faced, with mounting concerns about disease.

Communications to many of Vanuatu’s 80 other islands, most only accessible by boat, were still down and Prime Minister Joe Natuman said it would be at least a week before authorities had a better sense of the destruction.

President Baldwin Lonsdale has appealed for the world to help after Severe Tropical Cyclone Pam roared ashore on Friday night.

With 24 people so far confirmed dead, the scale of the disaster be-

DEVASTATED: An aerial view of the destruction after Cyclone Pam in Port Vila, capital city of the Pa-

cific island nation of Vanuatu on Tuesday. – Reuters

came clearer with the first teams of aid workers reaching Tanna island, home to 30,000 people. It is some 200 kilometres (124 miles) south of the capital Port Vila, itself badly damaged.

“The impression they got from their initial observations was that the damage is significantly worse than Port Vila,” Tom Perry from CARE Australia told AFP. He added that the hospital was functioning but had no roof.

Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said reconnaissance by the Australian military “confirmed significant damage in the southern islands”.

Destroyed “And particularly Tanna island, where it appears that more than 80 per cent of houses and buildings have been partially or completely destroyed,” she said.

“Not only buildings flattened,

but palm plantations, trees. It’s quite a devastating sight.”

Natuman said while initial assessors had been able to enter the eastern and western parts of the island chain, northern and southern areas were still largely unaccessible.

“It’ll be at least a week or two.

Right now we are sending teams to do ground assessments to see how many people are homeless,” he told reporters at Port Vila air-

port, where he welcomed home Lonsdale who had been attending a disaster conference in Japan.

Benjamin Shing, from Lonsdale’s office, said survivors would quickly run out of food.

“The first week we are relying on the fact that the food crops and the gardens are still edible and they can be used for the first week, but after the first week we’ll need to get some rations on the ground,” he told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

With crops wiped out, Shing feared the worst for a country that largely relies on subsistence farming, warning “there might be a lot of fatalities”.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said in a situation report “there are 24 confirmed fatalities” across Vanuatu so far and some 30 injured.

Perry said of the dead, at least five were from Tanna and CARE Australia was also worried about the lack of food. “Food running out is of great concern,” he said.

Local woman Sale Chilia said residents living in Mele, a village two kilometres south of Port Vila, were starting to worry about where they could find their next

meal. “We only have the leftovers now,” she said.

In Port Vila, access to water and electricity was partially restored after the storm brought down an estimated 80 per cent of power lines and damaged most homes.

Stores also began reopening, but entire neighbourhoods remained without power as aid workers streamed in after what many have said was one of the region’s worst weather disasters.

In the capital, leaves and branches lined the streets while residents began clearing metal roof sheeting from the roads around their homes and used machetes to hack through fallen trees.

Personal belongings, household items, mattresses and clothes were spread out on the ground and hung on washing lines as people dried them out, with the cyclone slowly weakening.

Samuel Toara, 25, thought he was going to die when the storm barrelled ashore. He sheltered in the pitch black with two other young men as the tempest roared past his home. “It was very hard.

The cyclone sounded like a big plane flying very low,” he said.

As heavy rain pounded his house, made of corrugated metal and timber, part of the roof blew off. “The rain and wind was like white smoke and it flooded up to my knee. But I told the boys, don’t worry about the water,” he said. “As long as we survive.” — AFP

PROTEST AGAINST MAID’S DEATH

A protester holds a placard outside an SCAN THIS FOR employment agency in Hong Kong on MORE PHOTOS Tuesday, following the death of Indonesian maid Elis Kurniasih, 33, after a concrete slab fell on her while sleeping on the balcony of a guesthouse run by the agency, as concerns grow over conditions for overseas domestic helpers. — AFP

WA R O N T E R R O R

Iraqi forces’ Tikrit offensive stalled

by IS group bombs SAMARRA (IRAQ): Iraq’s offensive to retake Tikrit from the IS group was stalled on Tuesday because of streets and buildings rigged with booby trap bombs and by the several hundred militants still holding out there.

Troops, police and militia fairly easily boxed the militants in over recent days, but mopping them up is proving to be far harder.

“The battle to retake Tikrit will be difficult because of the preparations (IS) made,” said Jawwad Al Etlebawi, spokesman for Asaib Ahl Al Haq, a militia playing a major role in the operation.

“They planted bombs on all the streets, buildings, bridges, everything... Our forces were stopped by these defensive preparations,” he told AFP. “We need forces trained in urban warfare to break in,” he said, adding that the militants are surrounded and that “any besieged person fights fiercely.”

The assault on Tikrit, capital

of Salaheddin province, began on March 2.

Loyalists had already failed three times retake the city, the hometown of former president Saddam Hussein, which was captured by IS last summer.

Interior Minister Mohammed Ghabban said on Monday the operation had been halted to avoid casualties and to protect infrastructure.

But it is unclear how anything other than an extended siege would achieve either of those objectives, unless there is additional external support, such as air strikes.

Staff Lieutenant General Abdulwahab Al Saadi, commander for Salaheddin, told AFP on Sunday his forces in Tikrit needed air support from the US-led coalition.

He said he had asked the defence ministry to request air support, but that none had yet been forthcoming. — AFP

W E D N E S DAY, MAR C H 1 8, 2 0 1 5

WORLD

Heading to the polls on a cold, sunny day, voters cast their ballots in an election seen as a referendum on the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu years, with turnout unusually high among defiant Arab Israelis

BALLOT

Israelis vote in tight race OCCUPIED JERUSALEM: Israelis voted on Tuesday in a closefought election pitting the centre left against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who is fighting for his political survival after six years in power.

Heading to the polls on a cold, sunny day, voters cast their ballots in an election seen as a referendum on the Netanyahu years, with turnout unusually high among defiant Arab Israelis. The last polls indicated a narrow win for the centre-left Zionist Union, with the outcome likely to determine the prospects for new Middle East peace talks and Israel’s troubled relations with its US ally.

In a last-ditch appeal to the farright ahead of the vote, Netanyahu ruled out the establishment of a Palestinian state if reelected, effectively reneging on his 2009 endorsement of a two-state solution.

Some 5.8 million people are eligible to vote in Tuesday’s election, with 25 parties in the race for the Knesset’s 120 seats. But even if Netanyahu’s rightwing Likud party does end up losing, he could return to power by virtue of Israel’s complex proportional representation system.

With smaller parties likely to win more seats than the left, experts say Netanyahu has a better chance of piecing together a majority of at least 61 seats needed to win backing for a coalition. — AFP

US played big role in botched raid on Philippine rebels played a role in the training before, and monitoring, of the... operation, Senator Grace Poe told reporters

MANILA: US forces played a “substantial” role in a botched anti-terrorism raid in the Philippines that left 44 local police commandos dead, according to a Senate report released on Tuesday.

The raid, known locally as Oplan Exodus, has plunged President Benigno Aquino’s administration into crisis and jeopardised efforts to end a decades-long separatist insurgency.

“US personnel played a role in the training before, and monitoring, of the... operation,” Senator Grace Poe told reporters as she released the findings of a committee inquiry into the January 25 raid.

UP IN ARMS: Yemeni protesters shout slogans during a demonstration to mark the fourth anniversary of an attack on pro-democracy protesters, in Sanaa on Tuesday. – AFP

Houthis replace air force chief over refusal to give support

Dismissed Major General Rashid Al Jund along with the air force’s chief of staff was dismissed on Monday and placed under investigation by the Supreme Security Council, a body formed by the Houthis after they seized Sanaa, the military sources said.

He was replaced by Brigadier General Khader Salem, whom the officials said was more sym-

United States, a longtime military ally of the Philippines that has so far declined to outline its role in the operation. Three unidentified Americans were brought into the local army brigade headquarters during the operation, creating tensions with the Filipino military commander at a crucial time, the Senate report said. “One of the Americans ordered Maj-Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan to fire the artillery,” the report stated.

“However Pangilinan refused and told him: ‘Do not dictate to me what to do. I am the commander here’.”

US personnel

INTERNAL STRIFE

SANAA: The Houthi militia, who control much of Yemen, have removed the air force chief for refusing to provide them with air support and replaced him with a general who is closer to their group, military officials said.

The move shines a light on the divisions in Yemen’s shattered military as the Iran-backed Houthis and embattled President Abdrabbo Mansour Hadi vie for control.

Hadi fled Houthi house arrest last month and re-established his presidency in the southern port of Aden, while the Houthis control Sanaa. The United Nations, which is brokering talks between the two sides, has warned of imminent civil war.

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pathetic to the Houthis.

Houthi officials did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for a comment.

The advance of the group into the capital in September and to other regions, mainly in central and eastern Yemen, has been met with resistance from armed tribes, some of whom are backed

by Al Qaeda militants.

Dozens from both sides have died in fighting for the central province of Al Bayda, and the Houthis have been targeted by bombings of militants including Al Qaeda, who consider the Houthis heretics.

The strong Al Qaeda presence in Yemen makes it an international security concern, particularly as it borders on Saudi Arabia and major shipping lanes.

While the Houthis say they are waging a revolution against corrupt officials and their lackeys, Yemen’s Gulf neighbours call their takeover a coup. - Reuters

REVEALED: Senator Grace Poe displays a copy of a report by the Police Board of Inquiry during a press briefing in Manila on Tuesday, as she releases the findings of a committee inquiry into the January 25 botched raid against rebels in the Philippines that left 44 local police commandoes dead. – AFP

“The committee found that the United States substantially invested in the entirety of Oplan Exodus. It provided equipment, training and intelligence.”

The raid sought to capture or kill two men on the US government’s list of “most wanted terrorists” who were living among rebels in southern Philippine farming communities.

One of the men, Malaysian national Zulkifli bin Hir who had a

$5-million bounty on his head, was reported killed. But the other, Filipino Abdul Basit Usman, escaped as rebels surrounded the police commandos and killed 44 of them. A police inquiry earlier outlined a multitude of tactical errors that led to the slaughter of the commandos. The Senate report said Aquino must “bear responsibility” for the deaths.

But it also raised questions about the accountability of the

Planned and executed Responding to the Senate report, a US government official told AFP: “This operation was planned and executed by Philippine authorities. We refer you to them for details of the operation.”

The United States provides military training and intelligence to the Philippines in its counterterrorism efforts.

US forces are not allowed to engage in combat under the terms of an agreement between the allies — a deal Poe said there was no evidence to suggest had been breached. But, citing US training, equipment and intelligence, she said there were concerns

that Washington’s influence on the Philippine National Police (PNP) was too strong. “This raises a question of whether the PNP leadership would have entered into such a risky and hazardous operation without the support of the United States and the $5 million reward offered for Marwan’s capture.”

Aquino’s public support has plummeted to its lowest level since he took office in 2010 because of the botched raid, according to a survey released on Tuesday. His public approval ratings fell to 38 per cent in the first week of March, from 59 per cent last November, polling firm Pulse Asia said.

Aquino’s term ends in the middle of next year and the constitution does not allow him to run for re-election. But his plunging popularity could weaken his ability to secure congressional support for his most important remaining initiatives, as well as damage the election chances of his hoped-for successor.

Aquino is also hoping to finalise a peace pact with the nation’s biggest rebel group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), and end a conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of lives since the 1970s. — AFP

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WORLD

Inevitably most good things come to an end and I am at a crossroads in my military career. So while I am finishing one part of my life, I am getting straight into a new chapter. I am really looking forward to it Prince Harry, United Kingdom royal

Prince Harry to leave army after 10 years The 30-year-old grandson of Queen Elizabeth said it had been a “really tough decision” to conclude his military service in June, but added that he was looking forward to a new chapter in his life

MOVING ON: A file picture taken on December 12, 2012 shows Britain’s Prince Harry making his early morning pre-flight checks at the British controlled flight-line at Camp Bastion in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province, where he was serving as an Apache Helicopter Pilot/Gunner with 662 Sqd Army Air Corps. —AFP/POOL/ JOHN STILLWELL/FILES

LONDON: Prince Harry announced Tuesday he is to leave the British army after 10 years’ service that has seen him fight on the front line twice in Afghanistan. The 30-year-old said it had been a “really tough decision” to conclude his military service in June, but added that he was looking forward to a new chapter in his life.

His decision will come as a surprise to many royal-watchers as the prince was living out his boyhood dream and seemed quite content with the army life.

Harry, who will be nudged down to fifth in line to the throne by the birth of his brother Prince William’s second child in April, will end his military service after a four-week secondment to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in April and May. “I am considering the options for the future and I am really ex-

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cited about the possibilities,” he said, in a statement released by his Kensington Palace official residence. After his time with the Australian army, the prince will undertake an official tour of New Zealand, and then spend time doing voluntary conservation work in sub-Saharan Africa.

Before the end of the year, he then will begin volunteering with the British Ministry of Defence’s recovery programme, supporting the rehabilitation of wounded service personnel -- a subject close to his heart.

The younger son of the heir to the throne Prince Charles and

the late Diana, princess of Wales, Harry is keeping his long-term options open, and will continue to carry out part-time royal duties on behalf of his grandmother Queen Elizabeth II. Harry graduated from the elite Sandhurst military academy and served twice in Afghanistan: once on the ground in 2007-2008 as a forward air controller calling in airstrikes and once flying attack helicopters in 2012-2013.

A captain commissioned in the Household Cavalry, he currently has a desk job organising commemorative army events in London.“After a decade of service, moving on from the army has been a really tough decision.

“The experiences I have had over the last 10 years will stay with me for the rest of my life. For that I will always be hugely grateful,” he said. — AFP

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WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM WEDNESDAY, MAR CH 18, 2015

MARKE Muscat 6,222.88 - 35.21 - 0.56%

Dubai 3,534.29 + 14.74 + 0.42%

Abu Dhabi 4,330.63 - 34.39 - 0.79%

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Kuwait 6,444.14 - 2.23 - 0.03%

Saudi Arabia

9,303.13 - 135.11 - 1.43%

Bahrain 1,468.12 - 0.45 - 0.03%

Qatar 11,687.17 - 28.56 - 0.69%

CRUDE OIL PRICE

CURRENCY RATES*

DRAFT RATES (OMR1)*

GOLD PRICES*

Type ............................Delivery...........Price

Forex rates vs OMR1* US Dollar ................................. 2.58 Euro ............................................ 2.43 Pound ............................................1.74 Indian Rs .............................162.67 Pak Rs ....................................260.01 Bangla Taka.......................199.64

Indian Rs .................................. 162.65 Pakistan Rs ............................. 263.15 Sri Lanka Rs .......................... 343.65 Bangla Taka.............................201.70 Phil Peso .....................................114.75

Muscat 24ct per gm (OMR) .......14.80

Oman Crude............. (Spot) .........$51.64 Dubai Crude ............. (Spot) ..........$51.51 Murban Crude ........ (Spot) ......... $53.71 Arabian Light ......... (Spot) ........ $53.55 N.Sea Brent............... (Spot) ........$53.44 West Texas Int ....... (Spot) ........$43.40

Investors lose OMR400m in share values With oil prices touching a sixyear low, the local bourse saw a severe 5.7% fall in share values in the last 13 sessions this month

A. E. JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Plunging crude oil prices are pulling down the local bourse, along with other regional markets.

Local and foreign investors on the Muscat Securities Market (MSM) have lost a whopping OMR400 million (market capitalisation), following a severe 5.7 per cent fall in share values in the last 13 trading sessions this month following oil prices touching a six-year low recently.

“Market capitalisation on the Muscat bourse fell by OMR400 million — from OMR9.6 billion at the beginning of the month to OMR9.2 billion on Tuesday,” said Kanaga Sundar, head of research

at Gulf Baader Capital Markets.

A sizeable portion of the gains, after the market plunged to a fiveyear low on December 14 at 5,409, has been wiped out this month as weak sentiment prevailed on the stock exchange.

Although crude market showed a marginal recovery on Tuesday, Brent Crude plunged 14.6 per cent and WTI grade dipped by 12 per cent this month to touch $53.44 and $43.4 per barrel, respectively, since the beginning of the current month.

Development expenditure That will have a major impact on the government’s ability to meet development expenditure this year since 83 per cent of budget revenue comes from hydrocarbon resources.

“Most of the market gains in the recent past were wiped out following a fall in oil prices.

There will be a further fall on the bourse in the coming days due to dividend adjustments as record date of several companies are either this week or in the coming

PERSONAL FINANCE

* Rates as of Mar. 17 Source: Oman UAE Exchange

* Rates are as of Mar. 17 Source: Bank Muscat

weeks,” noted Sundar.

Dividend yield of Omani bourse is 4.5 per cent this year and the market will adjust to that extend.

“Foreign institutional investors are divesting their holding.”

Many investors are losing confidence, resulting in dumping of shares across the board, and there is little sign of an immediate recovery across the region. Retail investors also started selling shares, without even evaluating the worthiness of the stocks they hold.

Suresh Kumar, head of research at Al Maha Financial Services, said that several stocks, including Bank Muscat, Bank Nizwa, Global Investment, Sharqia Investment, Galfar and United Finance, are trading below their book value.

Suresh Kumar pointed out that a recovery can be seen only when the oil price recovers. The fall in share prices was triggered mostly by sentiments, rather than fundamentals of the regional economies or the corporate sector. Investors dumped stocks across the Gulf, on serious concerns that the falling oil prices will affect hydrocarbonbased economies. Among regional bourses, all markets lost ground except Dubai stock market.

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Muscat 22ct per gm (OMR) .......14.30 Dubai 24ct per gm (Dh) ........... 140.00 Dubai 22ct per gm (Dh) ............ 133.00 * Rates as of Mar. 17 Source: Malabar Gold & Diamonds

OIL AND GAS SECTOR

Opportunities worth OMR425m open for small and medium units ELHAM POURMOHAMMADI

elham@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Projects worth more than an estimated OMR425 million related to and suitable for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are available in the oil and gas sector, said an official.

The estimate is for the period between 2013 and 2021, Khalifa Al Abri, acting chief executive officer of the Public Authority for SMEs Development (Riyada), said here on Tuesday.

He made the remarks during a speech at the first Oman Refining and Petrochemical Exhibition and Conference (ORPEC), the flagship event for Oman’s downstream industry. Al Abri said that providing training and technical and financial support for SMEs, promoting them and developing polices and a database through conducting strategic studies, are the main activities and objectives of Riyada.

There are vast opportunities for SMEs in areas such as oil and gas, mining and quarry, agriculture and fisheries, information and communications technology and creative industries apart from logistics and transportation, tourism and hospitality and manufacturing, he said.

Commercial land Commenting on commercial land for SMEs, the official noted that there are over 50 locations across Oman identified for commercial and industrial use.

As of December 2014, 230 SMEs have applied for industrial land, Al Abri said, adding, “23 land plots are identified for commercial use, 25 are identified for industrial use, two (totally 2,000,000 square

BOOSTING ENTERPRISE: Khalifa Al Abri said that the organisation

will provide training, technical and financial support for small and medium enterprises, besides promoting them and developing polices and a database. – Supplied photo

metres) have been identified for agricultural SME allocation, and eight land plots are identified for incubators.” He also noted that the authority is seeking to develop a track record for SMEs to see how many of them have successful businesses and identify the problems of the failed projects. $64b ICV potential In a speech about the In-Country Value (ICV) drive in the oil and gas industry, Musallam Al Mandhari, advisor to the board and interim chief executive officer of the Oman Society for Petroleum Services (OPAL), said that the oil and gas companies have managed to increase their ICV contribution significantly over past years.

According to him, average Omanisation level in 2014 within the oil and gas companies was 64 per cent and more than 80 per cent of the oil and gas companies’ direct

sourcing is done through local contractors, agents and suppliers.

He noted that a study indicates that $64 billion could be addressed over the period 2013 to 2020 to increase ICV down the value chain.

Out of this amount, $51.5 billion could be addressed through local sourcing and $12.5 billion could be addressed through employment of Omanis, said Al Mandhari. He also noted that there are 53 supply chain development opportunities to increase local sourcing across the whole value chain.

Within the oil and gas industry, ICV development is addressed by a committee of high-level representatives of several oil and gas industry bodies, the official said, adding that in order to address a maximum value out of the $64 billion, the committee has defined an integrated ICV development programme involving all relevant stakeholders.

AV I AT I O N

Abu Dhabi bank offers Emirates targets United States freighter routes

loans for expatriates Times News Service MUSCAT: Personal loans for resident expatriates in the Sultanate have been launched by National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) Oman, as part of its continuous endeavour to diversify its banking products.

These products have been tailor-made to cater to the needs of the resident expatriates in Oman to meet their personal financial requirements such as payment of tuition fees, travel expenses, purchase of property and vehicles or any other needs.

The bank aims to provide value-added features by offering hassle-free and flexible loans that meets customer’s expectations with competitive interest rates and insurance premiums applied.

The newly launched products are offered through all the nine branches in Oman located in Ruwi, Al Qurum, Al Khuwair, Al Khoudh, Sohar, Al Buraimi, Sur,

Mohammed bin Ali Ba Omar Nizwa and Salalah. Customers can choose to operate from any of the branches irrespective of their home branch.

Mohammed bin Ali Ba Omar, the country chief executive officer of NBAD Oman, said: “NBAD continues to provide banking solutions that meet the local market requirements by developing and introducing efficient products and service of high value in response to financial demands from different segments of the Omani and resident clientele .”

DUBAI: Leading Gulf airline Emirates said it may add North American freighter routes beyond the six it already serves, just as United States carriers seek to block the expansion of Middle Eastern operators they say benefit from subsidies.

There is an ‘absolute possibility’ that Emirates, already the world’s No. 1 international cargo carrier, will add more destinations in the region using its freighter fleet, said Henrik Ambak, senior vice-president for global cargo operations.

The company has 12 Boeing 777Fs that can carry 103 metric tonnes and two 747-400ERFs able to haul 117 tonnes.

While Emirates has built itself into a top cargo player using belly space in a fleet of 217 passenger jets that serve 127 cities, the carrier’s SkyCargo arm offers freighter flights to 50 locations from a hub at Dubai’s new Al Maktoum International Airport. North America, along with Africa, is the company’s main growth target, Ambak said in an interview.

Additional freighter routes

EYEING CARGO EXPANSION

SkyCargo, the Airlines’ cargo arm offers freighter flights to 50 locations from a hub at Dubai’s new Al Maktoum International Airport. North America, along with Africa, is the company’s main growth target

would open up a new front in Emirates’s tussle with US rivals, which are beginning to feel the pinch from a capacity splurge that’s already seen European airlines lose market share. Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and United Continental are lobbying for a review of Open Skies deals that grant access to Gulf carriers

after accusing them of getting $42 billion in aid.

Double-digit growth Emirates says it currently operates freighters to Chicago, Atlanta, Houston and Los Angeles, served twice weekly, and has a five-timesa-week operation to New York in an alliance with the airline arm

of Dutch parcel service TNT Express. It also runs cargo planes to Mexico City, and carries freight in the holds of passenger jets to nine US destinations plus Toronto.

SkyCargo, the freighter division of Emirates, is targeting a 10 per cent increase in volumes in the 12 months starting April 1, after an 8 per cent gain in fiscal 2014, Ambak said. He declined to provide a likely figure for the current period.

“In recent years we’ve very successfully built Africa through Dubai and very recently we see a sharp growth in North America,” he said. Cargo traffic to the carrier’s established markets of Europe and Asia remains strong, he added.

As in the passenger market, the bulk of the cargo carried by Emirates bypasses Dubai, which serves as a transit hub, with about 80 percent headed for markets elsewhere, Ambak said. Within SkyCargo, two-thirds of cargo moves in passenger planes via the company’s main Dubai International base, and one- third via the freighters stationed at Al Maktoum International. - Bloomberg News

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W EDN ESDAY, MARCH 18, 2015

MARKET Jordanian team explores trade avenues in Oman

IT SOLUTIONS

Gulf Business Machines celebrates silver jubilee Times News Service MUSCAT: Gulf Business Machines (GBM), the region’s leading provider of customised IT solutions, celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary on Monday at the Grand Hyatt Hotel with customers, staff and partners of GBM invited to join in the celebrations.

Ahmed Auda, Oman country manager and Philippe Jarre, the chief executive officer, were among those present to greet guests and thank them for their contributions to the company and celebrate 25 years of success.

“GBM Oman works with some of the largest public and private sector customers in the country and is one of the most prominent IT providers in the Sultanate. The

25th anniversary is a significant milestone for the company and we are delighted to be able to welcome so many guests to our event this evening,” said Auda.

“Increasingly we are seeing the IT industry evolve at a rapid pace here in Oman and GBM has developed ambitious plans to stay ahead of the trend and provide our Omani customers with access to the latest solutions to help them to grow their own businesses, coupled with the added value and expertise of our on-the-ground experts in Oman,” he added.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, Gulf Business Machines also unveiled a refreshed look and feel to its brand including a new website, www.gbmme.com.

Commenting at the event, Jarre

said, “Oman has always been an important market for GBM and I am honoured to be here to celebrate the anniversary with our customers, staff and partners.”

“The year 2015 signals the 25th year of GBM in Oman and across the region, and we wanted to mark the occasion with a change. Not in the levels of our award winning customer service and certainly not in the exceptional value we provide to our customers. Rather, we wanted to change our brand to something that remains recognisable but with a distinct difference that highlights to our customers, and to the wider industry, that GBM is moving into a new era and will be setting a new pace for IT services in Oman and across the region,” he added.

Delegation members were briefed on existing investment opportunities in various industrial estates under the umbrella of PEIE and its value added services

Times News Service MUSCAT: A delegation from Jordan visited the headquarters of the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (PEIE) at the Knowledge Oasis Muscat on Tuesday, with an aim to strengthen economic and trade cooperation between Oman and Jordan.

The delegation, representing the Jordanian Businessmen Association (JBA), comprises businessmen specialised in construction, energy, water consulting and engineering services, telecommunications, information technology, banking and financial markets sectors.

The delegation was received by Eng. Musallam bin Mohammed Al Shehri, assistant chief executive officer of PEIE for operations, and senior officials of PEIE, said a press release.

The visiting businessmen were briefed on the existing investment opportunities in the various industrial estates which fall under the umbrella of PEIE in the different governorates of the Sultanate, and the value adding services provided by PEIE in collaboration with government and private bodies in Oman, which all together contribute to the advancement of the industrial climate in the various industrial estates.

Vision of PEIE Al Shehri highlighted the vision of PEIE, which is to enhance the Sultanate’s position as a leading regional centre of manufacturing, ICT, innovation and entrepreneurship excellence, and its mission in attracting industrial investments and providing continued support, through regionally and globally competitive strategies, good infrastructure, value adding services, and easy governmental processes.

Eng. Basim bin Ali Al Nassri, director general of marketing and media, explained the importance of the strategic location of the Sultanate, the prominent features of the industrial sector and the national economy.

With a total area touching 90 million square metres of lands, PEIE today runs a line-up of industrial estates in Al Rusayl, Sohar, Al Buraimi, Raysut, Sur, Nizwa, Sumail, in addition to Knowledge Oasis Muscat, Al Mazunah Free Zone, and the recently announced Ibri Logistics Area.

He also underlined the objectives of PEIE, which comprise attracting foreign investments to the Sultanate and localising the national capital, contributing to stimulate the private sector to achieve sustainable economic and social development,

strengthening relations with the concerned authorities to ensure the flow of investment process and overcome any obstacles faced by investors, reinforcing cooperation with related international and regional organisations to boost the exchange of experience, knowledge and techniques used, contributing to create new job opportunities, encouraging exports and the establishment of export industries, increasing the market share of locally manufactured products, stimulating the economic sectors in the Sultanate including transport, tourism, banking, among others, and achieving environmental sustainability.

Omani products Al Nassri sid that PEIE offers a variety of value adding initiatives for business owners and investors in the industrial estates.

These initiatives comprise the National Business Centre (NBC), Industrial Innovation Centre, Human Resources Development Centre, the national campaign of promoting Omani products, and Communication and Investor Service Centre.

He added that PEIE has announced of a new programme to improve the packaging and design of SMEs products and work is currently underway on developing some companies’ products.

This project is being implemented through the small and medium enterprises, which are incubated in the National Business Centre and ITA’s SAS programme.

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W E D N E S DAY, MAR C H 1 8, 2 0 1 5

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MARKET CRUDE PRODUCTION

Saudi plans output hike to feed local refinery expansion RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s plans to expand local refineries while maintaining its share of the global crude market point to one thing: higher production.

The world’s largest oil exporter will probably increase output this year to feed new refineries, deepening a global supply glut, according to analysts at Societe Generale and DNB. The kingdom may go as high as 10 million barrels a day by April, according to Torbjoern Kjus, an analyst at DNB in Oslo. That would be the most in more than two years, according to data.

“Saudi Arabia will do the same thing as other Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) members have always been doing: They’ll produce as much as they can,” Kjus said. Fellow Opec members, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, will probably do the same because “they don’t want to be holding back on any potential exports.”

Opec output Crude’s rebound from the lowest in almost six years has faltered amid speculation that a global supply surplus may worsen. The United States production and stockpiles continue to rise from the highest level in three decades, even after last year’s price slump of almost 50 per cent. The Opec has pumped more than its daily production target of 30 million barrels for nine months.

A February rally in the price of oil has been followed by two weeks of declines. West Texas In-

termediate, the US benchmark, traded at $43.68 a barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. The contract fell to $42.85 on Monday, the lowest since March 2009.

New refineries Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman will raise their combined refining capacity to 5.4 million barrels a day this year, an increase of 17 per cent from 2014, according to Vienna-based JBC Energy.

They will be able to process 6 million a day by 2020, the consultant estimates.

Saudi Arabia plans to start the main unit for making gasoline at the new 400,000 barrel-a day refinery at Yanbu on the Red Sea by the middle of the year. Another plant with the same capacity is scheduled to begin operation in 2017 at Jazan. The kingdom’s oilproduct exports rose 44 percent last year following the start of the Jubail refinery, according to the Riyadh-based Joint Organisations Data Initiative.

In the UAE, the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company is more than doubling the capacity of the 400,000 barrel-a-day Ruwais refinery. The International Petroleum Investment Company, a fund that focuses on energy, is also considering opening a 200,000 barrel-a-day refinery in the emirate of Fujairah. Oman is plannign to award a contract next year to build a 230,000 barrel-aday plant to start production by the end of 2019. - Bloomberg News

SPREADING WINGS: Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Busaidi, wali of Jaalan Bani Bu Ali, who was the guest of honour at the ceremony,

congratulated the bank for opening the second branch in the wilayat. – Supplied photo

Jaalan Bani Bu Ali branch of Bank Muscat is now open The expanding branch network highlights Bank Muscat’s focus to remain the nation’s bank of first choice in all parts of the country

Times News Service MUSCAT: Bank Muscat, the leading financial services provider in the Sultanate, widened its network with the inauguration of a state-ofthe-art branch in the wilayat of Jaalan Bani Bu Ali. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Busaidi, wali of Jaalan Bani

BRIEFS

Oman Hotels gets nod to hike stake in United Finance MUSCAT: Capital market Authority (CMA) has granted its approval to increase Oman Hotels and Tourism Company (OHTC) stake in United Finance to 35 per cent. At present, OHTC is holding 24.99 per cent stake in United Finance, according to a filing.

Investcorp buys United States real estate portfolio DUBAI: Investcorp Bank, a Bahrain-based manager of alternative assets, bought a portfolio of residential properties in the United States for about $300 million. The company’s real-estate unit bought assets in Washington, Orlando, San Diego and Baltimore, taking the value of property bought this year to $850 million, Investcorp said in an e-mailed statement Tuesday. The purchases include about 1,900 multifamily and student housing units.

Dubai to be hub of Deutsche Bank’s Africa operations DUBAI: Deutsche Bank plans to make the Dubai International Financial Centre the hub for its African operations, according to its local chief executive officer. Ashok Aram, who heads Deutsche Bank in the Middle East, made the announcement on Tuesday at the Bloomberg Future Cities Forum in Dubai. - Times News Service/ Bloomberg News

SMARTEN UP DRIVE SAFE

A TIMES OF OMAN HANDS-FREE DRIVING INITIATIVE

Bu Ali, was the guest of honour at the ceremony attended by senior bank officials.

Sheikh Al Busaidi congratulated the bank for opening the second branch in the wilayat, thereby providing world class banking services to residents and visitors in the area, according to a press release.

“The expanding branch network

highlights Bank Muscat’s focus to remain the nation’s bank of first choice in all parts of the country.

With the widest reach in serving customers and the largest network of branches in the Sultanate, Bank Muscat is committed to meeting customer expectations at all levels,” stated Said Al Madai, deputy general manager of the bank.

Significant growth Over the past 32 years, Bank Muscat has achieved steady and significant growth to emerge as the leading financial institution in Oman. Innovations adopted by the bank are characteristic of the largest network of ATMs and CDMs found in all parts of the country.

Setting new benchmarks, Bank

Muscat offers the complete range of banking products and services through the network of branches spread across the length and breadth of Oman. The sophisticated banking experience stems from the right mix of traditional and electronic channels.

The corporate philosophy of Bank Muscat is underpinned by the rich Omani culture and traditions and the bank prides itself in its deep understanding of customer needs, offering financial guidance.

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Send us your comments at facebook.com/timesofoman blog.timesofoman.com haveyoursay@timesofoman.com

B4

W EDN ESDAY, MARCH 18, 2015

MARKET MSM index continues its losing streak

OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ........................................6,259.78 .............. 6,221.80 ...................6,222.88 ...................6,258.09................ -35.21 .................. -0.56 Financial Index ......................................7,617.52 ...............7,542.14 ....................7,555.30 ................... 7,606.49................ -51.19 .................. -0.67 Industrial Index .................................... 8,437.19 .............. 8,376.00 ................... 8,376.39 ................... 8,416.70................-40.31 .................. -0.48 Services Index .......................................3,467.22 ...............3,459.59 ................... 3,459.59 ................... 3,461.84..................-2.25 .................. -0.06 MSM SHARIAH INDEX.......................978.83 ..................976.43 .......................977.69 ...................... 976.57.................... 1.12 ................... 0.11 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 17,496,309...................5,193,573 ................. 1,380 ................14,759,077,481 ................ 10 ......................15 .................... 21 .........................46

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR TUESDAY, MARCH 17 Out of 46 traded securities, 10 advanced, 15 ISIN ..................................................SECURITY NAME ...............................................................................................VOLUME ..............TURNOVER...................TRADES ...........OPEN PRICE............. HIGH....................LOW...............CLOSE PR. ..........PREV. CLOSE..........DIFF (RO) .................DIFF %......................LAST PR...............LAST BID.....................LAST OFFER .................MARKET CAP ........PAR VALUE

declined and 21 remained unchanged. Oman Fiber Optic, up by 9.72% , was the top gainer

REGULAR MARKET .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000003125 ............GLOBAL FINANCIAL INVESTMENT ................ 106,674............. 11,201........................6 ............0.105 ........... 0.105 ...........0.105 ........... 0.105 .............0.100 ........... 0.005.............5.000 ................0.105 ..............0.104...................0.110 ...............21,000,000.......0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 5,428,390...1,348,610...................365 ........... 0.247 ...........0.257 ...........0.242 .......... 0.248 .............0.240 ........... 0.008............. 3.333 ................0.255..............0.254...................0.255...............32,364,000 ......0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ............ 197,040............. 51,178..................... 26 ........... 0.258 ...........0.262 ...........0.258........... 0.260 .............0.252 ........... 0.008............. 3.175.................0.262..............0.262...................0.263 ...............5,460,000 ........0.100 OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO....................................................................... 605,734 ..........419,168..................... 30 ........... 0.692 ...........0.692 ...........0.692........... 0.692 .............0.684 ........... 0.008............. 1.170.................0.692..............0.692...................0.700..............450,453,407 .....0.100

MUSCAT: Investors continue to remain bearish as the MSM 30 declined by 0.56 per cent to close at 6,222.88 points. The MSM Shariah Index increased 0.11 per cent and closed at 977.69 points.

Al Anwar Holding was the most active in terms of volume as well as turnover. Oman Fiber Optic, up by 9.72 per cent, was the top gainer, while DBIH, down by 5.68 per cent, was the top loser.

As many as 1,380 trades were executed in the session generating a turnover of OMR5.19 million with more than 17.49 million shares changing hands.

Out of 46 traded securities, 10 advanced, 15 declined and 21 remained unchanged.

At the close of the session, Omani investors remained net buyers to the tune of OMR752,000 followed by GCC & Arab investors at OMR197,000, while foreign investors sold shares amounting to OMR949,000.

Financial Index closed at 7,555.30 points, down by 0.67 per cent. Global Financial Investment, Al Anwar Holding and Al Madina Takaful rose per cent, 3.33 per cent and 1.23 per cent respectively. DBIH, Ahli Bank, Bank Sohar, Bank Muscat and Ominvest declined 5.68 per cent, 3 per cent, 2.56 per cent, 1.83 per cent and 1.28 per cent respectively.

Industrial Index ended the day at 8,376.39 points, down by 0.48 per cent. Oman Fiber Optic, Al Hassan Engineering, Gulf International Chemicals and Galfar Engineering rose 9.72 per cent, 3.48 per cent, 3.17 per cent and 0.69 per cent respectively. Al Jazeera Steel, Voltamp Energy and National Aluminium decreased 5.63 per cent, 2.39 per cent and 0.61 per cent respectively.

Services Sector Index declined

marginally by 0.06 per cent to close at 3,459.59 points. Ooredoo and OIFC increased 1.17 per cent and 0.49 per cent respectively.

National Gas, Renaissance Services, Omantel and Al Batinah Power decreased 2.27 per cent, 1.53 per cent, 0.86 per cent and 0.55 per cent respectively.

Emerging stocks rise Emerging-market stocks and currencies rose, with Chinese equities reaching their highest level since 2008, as investors bet the US Federal Reserve will delay raising US borrowing costs.

The lira added 0.6 per cent and stocks rose 1.9 per cent after the Turkish central bank left all of its interest rates unchanged. Russia’s currency added as much as 1.2 per cent versus the dollar, trading 0.6 per cent higher amid speculation exporters were buying the ruble before tax payments. South Africa’s currentaccount deficit narrowed more than expected in the fourth quarter, boosting the rand.

The Shanghai Composite Index climbed 1.6 per cent.

The MSCI Emerging Markets Index rose 0.8 per cent to 947.69 in London, set for the steepest gain since February 13. China’s benchmark measure extended its world-beating rally as investors bet monetary stimulus will revive slowing growth.

The Fed starts a two-day policy meeting on Tuesday after gauges of manufacturing and industrial production trailed estimates, tempering the outlook for higher interest rates.

All 10 industry groups in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index rose, paced by industrial stocks.

Samsung led the climb.

OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 114,380.............16,607......................31 ............0.149 ........... 0.149 ...........0.144............0.145 .............0.144 ............0.001 ............. 0.694 ................0.145 ..............0.144...................0.145...............38,224,720.......0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 153,000 ............31,573......................15 ........... 0.205 ...........0.207 ...........0.205........... 0.206 .............0.205 ............0.001 ............. 0.488 ................0.205..............0.201...................0.205 ..............41,200,000 ......0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT .......................................................... 3,364 ...............5,853........................2 ............1.740 ........... 1.740............1.740 ............1.745 ............. 1.745 ............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.740 .............. 1.700...................1.740 ............. 349,000,000 .....0.100 OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN .................................................... 132,142..............17,178........................3 ............0.130 ........... 0.130 ...........0.130........... 0.130 .............0.130............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.130 ..............0.128...................0.130..............260,040,663 .....0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING........... 482,355 ............59,152..................... 35 ............0.120 ........... 0.125 ...........0.120............0.123 ............. 0.123............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.124..............0.123...................0.124...............14,990,625 .......0.100 OM0000001707 ............OMAN CABLES INDUSTRY......................................29,506 ............ 56,356........................4 ............1.910 ........... 1.910............1.900............1.910 ............. 1.910............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.900............. 0.000...................1.900..............171,327,000 ......0.100 OM0000001749 ............OMAN CEMENT ............................................................91,584 .............47,074........................4 ............0.514 ........... 0.514 ...........0.514 ............0.514 ............. 0.514............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.514 ..............0.508...................0.514..............170,068,573......0.100 OM0000001822............UNITED POWER ................................................................ 200 .................. 386........................1 ............1.930 ........... 1.930 ...........1.930........... 2.000 .............2.000 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................1.930 ..............1.900...................1.960................4,000,000........1.000 OM0000002168............AL ANWAR CERAMIC TILES ............................... 639,552 ........ 294,224..................... 28 ........... 0.462 ...........0.462 ...........0.460........... 0.460 .............0.460 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.460..............0.456...................0.460 .............113,548,578 ......0.100 OM0000002275 ...........SHELL OMAN MARKETING ...........................................30 .....................60........................1 ............1.995 ........... 1.995 ...........1.995 ............1.995 ............. 1.995............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.995 ............. 0.000...................1.995 ..............189,525,000......0.100 OM0000002374............UNITED FINANCE ..................................................... 579,609 ........... 84,553..................... 35 ............0.146 ........... 0.146 ...........0.145 ........... 0.146 .............0.146............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.145 ..............0.144...................0.145............... 40,151,930 .......0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING ...............2,000 ..................324........................2 ............0.162 ........... 0.162 ...........0.162............0.157 ............. 0.157............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.162 ...............0.151...................0.162...............13,583,640 .......0.100 OM0000002549 ...........BANK DHOFAR .................................................................6,431 .............. 2,264........................1 ........... 0.352 ...........0.352 ...........0.352........... 0.352 .............0.352 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.352............. 0.340...................0.352..............472,821,259 .....0.100 OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES ......................... 3,430,086..... 498,202................... 147 ............0.145 ........... 0.148 ...........0.143 ............0.145 ............. 0.145............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.146 ..............0.146...................0.147................8,532,266 ........0.100 OM0000003141 ............ACWA POWER BARKA ...............................................24,410 ............20,504........................4 ........... 0.840...........0.840 ...........0.840 .......... 0.840 .............0.840 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.840..............0.840...................0.844 .............134,400,000 .....0.100 OM0000003711 ............SOHAR POWER.................................................................1,850 .................. 703........................2 ........... 0.380 ...........0.380 ...........0.380........... 0.380 .............0.380 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.380..............0.380...................0.390 ..............83,983,800.......0.100 OM0000004248 ...........SMN POWER HOLDING ............................................10,000 ...............6,600........................2 ........... 0.660 ...........0.660 ...........0.660........... 0.660 .............0.660 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.660..............0.660...................0.000 ............. 131,759,496 ......0.100 OM0000001319 ............NATIONAL ALUMINIUM PRODUCTS ............... 10,010 ...............3,263........................3 ........... 0.328 ...........0.328 ...........0.326........... 0.326 .............0.328 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.610 ...............0.326..............0.306...................0.320 ..............10,944,293.......0.100 OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN ................................. 537,898........... 169,113......................11 ............0.316 ........... 0.316 ...........0.314 ........... 0.314 ............. 0.316............-0.002 ........... -0.633 ...............0.314 ..............0.312...................0.330 ............. 382,711,835 ......0.100 OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION ........................ 146,282 .........252,207..................... 52 ............1.730 ........... 1.730............1.720 ............1.725 ............. 1.740............-0.015 ........... -0.862 ...............1.725 .............. 1.725...................1.740 ............ 1,293,750,000 ....0.100 OM0000001533 ............OMINVEST ...................................................................... 81,497 .............37,789........................6 ........... 0.466 ...........0.466 ...........0.460........... 0.464 .............0.470 ...........-0.006 ........... -1.277................0.460..............0.460...................0.466..............156,248,752......0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES ...................................... 25,000 ...............9,672......................11 ........... 0.390 ...........0.390 ...........0.384........... 0.386 .............0.392 ...........-0.006 ............-1.531 ................0.384..............0.380...................0.384 .............108,888,459......0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 2,382,444 ..1,277,446...................323 ........... 0.542 ...........0.548 ...........0.532........... 0.536 .............0.546 ...........-0.010 ........... -1.832................0.548..............0.544...................0.548............ 1,169,920,869 ....0.100 OM0000001160 ............NATIONAL GAS ............................................................. 11,480 .............. 4,940........................6 ........... 0.432 ...........0.432 ...........0.430........... 0.430 .............0.440 ...........-0.010 ........... -2.273 ...............0.430..............0.430...................0.434 .............. 19,591,408 .......0.100 OM0000003661 ............VOLTAMP ENERGY .....................................................43,936 .............17,884........................9 ............0.410 ........... 0.414 ...........0.400 .......... 0.408 ............. 0.418............-0.010 ........... -2.392 ...............0.400..............0.380...................0.410...............24,684,000 ......0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR................................................................ 612,140...........116,218..................... 49 ............0.192 ........... 0.192 ...........0.189 ........... 0.190 ............. 0.195............-0.005 ........... -2.564 ...............0.190..............0.189...................0.190..............217,360,000......0.100 OM0000002200 ...........AHLI BANK .................................................................... 208,784 ...........40,430........................8 ............0.193 ........... 0.194 ...........0.193 ........... 0.194 .............0.200 ...........-0.006 ........... -3.000 ...............0.194.............. 0.193...................0.194..............251,324,556......0.100 OM0000002176 ............AL JAZEERA STEEL PRODUCTS ........................ 117,382 .............35,479..................... 23 ............0.316 ........... 0.316 ...........0.300 .......... 0.302 .............0.320 ...........-0.018 ........... -5.625 ...............0.300 .............0.306...................0.314................37,719,184 .......0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 16,215,190......4,936,213 ...........1,245 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......32..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

PARALLEL MARKET .................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000002101 ............OMAN FIBER OPTIC ......................................................1,566 ...............8,222........................2 ........... 5.250 ...........5.250 ...........5.250........... 5.250 .............4.785.............0.465 ..............9.718.................5.250..............5.250...................0.000 ..............32,938,584.......1.000 OM0000002564 ...........AL HASSAN ENGINEERING................................... 92,000 .............10,913......................11 ............0.116 ........... 0.120 ...........0.116 ............0.119 ............. 0.115 ............ 0.004............. 3.478 ................0.120...............0.117...................0.120................ 8,949,752 ........0.100 OM0000004768 ...........AL MADINA TAKAFUL...............................................35,000 ...............2,860........................5 ........... 0.082 ...........0.082 ...........0.081 ........... 0.082 ............. 0.081.............0.001 ............. 1.235 ................0.082..............0.081...................0.083...............14,350,000.......0.100 OM0000001269............COMPUTER STATIONERY IND. .............................. 1,000 .................. 252........................1 ........... 0.252 ...........0.252 ...........0.252........... 0.279 .............0.279 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.252............. 0.000...................0.290 ...............2,790,000 ........0.100 OM0000001368 ............CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS IND. .................. 110,200 .............. 3,881........................9 ........... 0.035 ...........0.036 ...........0.035........... 0.035 .............0.035 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.035..............0.035...................0.036................2,975,000 ........0.100 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES .......................................................42,167 ............... 2,710........................7 ........... 0.064 ...........0.065 ...........0.064........... 0.064 .............0.064 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.065..............0.065...................0.066................8,000,000........0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER .................................................. 260,095 ...........46,824......................11 ............0.180 ........... 0.181............0.180........... 0.180 .............0.180 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.181 ..............0.180...................0.182.............. 128,593,141 ......0.100 OM0000005005 ...........ALMAHA CERAMICS .................................................. 61,167 ............ 35,844..................... 39 ........... 0.586 ........... 0.586 ...........0.586........... 0.586 .............0.586 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.586..............0.560...................0.586...............29,300,000 ......0.100 OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER................................................ 278,293 ........... 50,093......................11 ............0.180 ........... 0.180 ...........0.180........... 0.180 ............. 0.181 ............-0.001 ........... -0.552 ...............0.180.............. 0.179...................0.180.............. 121,479,737 ......0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ..................................................................75,584 ...............6,425......................13 ........... 0.086 ...........0.086 ...........0.085........... 0.085 .............0.086 ...........-0.001 ............-1.163................0.085..............0.085...................0.086..............127,500,000......0.100 OM0000002366 ...........AL BATINAH DEV. INV. HOLDING ...................... 116,446 ............. 19,319......................13 ............0.169 ........... 0.169 ...........0.165 ............0.166 ............. 0.176............-0.010 ........... -5.682 ...............0.168 .............. 0.165...................0.170................4,980,000........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 1,073,518........187,343...................122 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ...... 11..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BOND MARKET .................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000004867 ...........BANK MUSCAT C C B 4.5 ......................................... 157,524 ............. 17,010........................8 ............0.106 ........... 0.108 ...........0.106........... 0.108 .............0.106 ........... 0.002............. 1.887 ................0.108..............0.106...................0.108...............34,521,409.......0.100 OM0000004602 ...........BANK MUSCAT CONV. BONDS 4.5 ................................ 77 ....................... 8........................1 ............0.105 ........... 0.105 ...........0.105 ........... 0.108 .............0.108 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.105 ..............0.105...................0.110 ...............32,696,904.......0.100 OM0000003810............BANK MUSCAT SUBORDINATED BONDS ....... 50,000 ............ 53,000........................4 ............1.060 ........... 1.060 ...........1.060........... 1.060 ............. 1.065............-0.005 ........... -0.469 ...............1.060..............1.060...................0.000 ..............79,500,000.......1.000 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 207,601.............70,018......................13 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........ 3..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

- United Securities/Bloomberg News

INDIAN MARKETS

Indian stocks rebound, rupee gains MUMBAI: In a highly volatile trade, initial sharp gains which were almost washed out in late mid-session trade, regained again on a sudden gust of fag-end buying and closed sharply higher by 299 points to end at 28,736.38, snapping two days of fall.

Besides Hong Kong and Singapore which closed with nominal losses, other Asian markets closed higher today as investors positioned for the possibility that weaker-than-expected United States data will prompt the Federal Reserve to adopt a cautious stance this week as investors expected no rate changes this time which could increase the foreign fund inflows to the emerging markets, including India.

US stocks closed sharply higher, as the rally paused ahead of the Federal Reserve’s two-day policy meeting. Buying was seen mainly in pharma, capital goods, FMCG, consumer durable, refinery, metal and banking shares while some of the IT and tech counters attracted profit-booking. Ten 10 out of 12 sectoral indices closed with gains.

The benchmark S&P BSE 30-share Sensex resumed better and rallied further by over 345 points in early afternoon trade, but heavy selling pulled it down just in negative terrain for couple of seconds to a low of 28,435.45 before bouncing back in the last hour to settle at 28,736.38, revealing a rise of 298.67 points or 1.05 per cent. In last straight two trading sessions, it had fallen by 492.70 points or 1.70 per cent.

Similarly, the 50-issue CNX

Nifty of the NSE rebounded by 90.15 points or 1.04 per cent to 8,723.30. Fall in Brent crude oil prices and rise in the rupee value also augur well for India and aided the rally.

Rupee strengthens The rupee extended gains for the second consecutive day against the American currency by surging further by 11 paise to close at 62.70 per dollar on persistent selling of dollars by banks and export-

ers on hopes of resumption of foreign capital inflows into market.

At the Interbank Foreign Exchange (Forex) market, the domestic unit commenced better at 62.77 a dollar from last close of 62.81 and moved in a range of 62.67 and 62.78 before finishing at 62.70 per dollar, showing a gain of 11 paise or 0.18 per cent.

The rupee has gained by 27 paise or 0.43 per cent in the two days. In London, the dollar was almost flat against the yen on Tuesay ahead of a closely monitored Federal Open Market Committee meeting in the US stop in dollar rally overseas after possibility that weaker-than-expected US data will prompt the Federal Reserve to adopt a cautious stance this week. Investors looked toward the Federal Open Market Committee’s meeting and policy statement due on Wednesday.

The dollar index, a gauge of six major global rivals, was down by 0.08 per cent on Tuesday.

Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 762.55 crore on Monday. - PTI

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ROUND-UP

Renault Oman launches exciting offer on all cars Customers will be entitled to receive exclusive benefits and assured cash gifts

MUSCAT: Renault Oman from Suhail Bahwan Group has announced a unique offer on its sleek range of vehicles for its valued customers which lasts till May 13.

Renault’s sedan segment comprises a prestigious line-up of vehicles that include the sleek Renault Fluence and the strikingly good looking Renault Safrane. The SUV range comprises the Renault Duster and the Renault Koleos.

Renault’s newly launched Captur makes the range even more attractive, says a press release.

Exclusive offers include: Renault Fluence 1.6l and 2.0l: Customers will be entitled to receive free registration, free periodic maintenance service up to two years/30,000km (whichever comes first), free unlimited warranty period of up to six years, AAA road side assistance card and a cash gift of OMR750.

Renault Safrane 2.0l and 2.5l: Customer benefits include free registration, free periodic maintenance service up to two years/30,000km (whichever comes first), free unlimited warranty period of up to six years, AAA road side assistance card and a cash gift of OMR750.

Renault Koleos 2.5l: Customers will be entitled to free registration, free unlimited warranty period of

up to six years free registration, free periodic maintenance service up to two years/30,000 km (whichever comes first), AAA road side assistance card, and a cash gift of OMR500.

Renault Duster 2.0l PE and SE model attractions comprise free registration, free unlimited warranty period of up to six years, free periodic maintenance service up to two years/30,000km (whichever comes first), AAA road side assistance card and a cash gift of OMR400.

The new and upbeat Renault Captur 1.2l comes with free registration, free unlimited warranty period of up to six years, free periodic maintenance service up to two years/30,000km (whichever comes first), AAA road side assistance card and a cash gift of OMR500.

Stylish range of vehicles The alluring Fluence The Renault Fluence offers more generous passenger space than other vehicles in the same class. Interior measurements are highly impressive, with elbow room of 1,480mm in the front and 1,475mm at the rear.

The luxurious Safrane The Renault Safrane 3.5 V6 fit-

ted with an automatic six-speed transmission comes equipped with the Carminat TomTom navigation system, a solution as efficient as it is easy to update and use, with the intuitive joystick. The hands-free card allows you to open and close the doors as well as start the engine, without even leaving your pocket.

Bluetooth technology allows you to make calls in perfect safety. Engines, the Safrane has an efficient new chassis including the Nissan multi-link rear suspension arrangement for enhanced ride comfort and driving pleasure.

The attractive Koleos The key highlights are the Renault Koleos reliability, with its power train of 2.5L engine, CVT transmission and 170 horse power issued from the Renault Nissan Alliance; added safety, with its six airbags; hill start assistance and hill slope control; ESP with Anti Slip Regulation; comfort, with its dual zone air-conditioning, leather interior and electric panoramic sunroof; advanced technology, with Bose sound system; digital media connectivity- USB and iPod docks; bluetooth capabilities, Renault key-less smart card; navigation assistance; 4WD differential lock, and roominess, with a seg-

SOCIAL COMEDY

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ment-topping cabin space.

The impressive Duster The Renault Duster is designed to face all types of terrain, globally.

In order to meet these wide-ranging needs, Renault Duster is available in both 4x4 MT and 4x2 AT version. The 4x2 AT version has been designed for customers who want good ground clearance and a reassuring elevated driving position, as well as loose-surface ability, but who don’t have a real need for all-wheel drive.

The upbeat Captur It is a crossover packed with a turbocharged engine for those occasional bursts of controlled fun.

The engine producing 120 BHP and 190 Nm of torque is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. Made in Spain, the Renault Captur stands out from the crowd by delivering the best of three different worlds: The expressive styling and driving position of an SUV, the cabin space and modular interior of an MPV and the agility and driving enjoyment of a compact saloon car.

SBA is largely committed to supporting Renault Oman’s growth in the Sultanate through major emphasis on customer satisfaction and by providing world-class after-sales services in Oman.

P R I Z E PAC K AG E S

Sign up to win big with Qatar Airways Holidays DOHA: Qatar Airways Holidays has launched a ‘Sign Up to Win’ competition exclusively for residents across the GCC. Winners will have the opportunity to claim one of 172 prize packages including a number of luxury city breaks to Beijing, Larnaca and Manila through to iPad Minis, iPhones, five-star hotel dining, Qatar Duty Free vouchers and fabulous travel goody bags.

Entry is simple; residents can sign up to win by visiting Qatar Airways Holidays’ website between March 16 and June 30.

Visit www.qatarairwaysholidays. com or www.facebook.com/qatarairwaysholidays to enter and the prize draw will begin on March 22 with winners being selected every month until June, says a press release.

Qatar Airways Holidays works in partnership with transfer operators, tour organisers and some of the best hotels in the world, providing exceptional customer service and a seamless, hasslefree travel experience. Four lucky winners will have the chance to enjoy a fantastic Qatar Airways Holidays package, each of which includes flights, a three-night stay in a five-star hotel and hotel transfers. The other prizes include 10 iPad Mini 3s, 10 iPhone 6s, 48 restaurant vouchers for five-star hotels across the GCC, 100 fantastic goody bags including a leather passport holder and Qatar Duty Free vouchers.

“Qatar Airways Holidays proudly specialises in a range of holiday packages to destinations across the globe. Our aim is to create memorable holidays by providing customer-focused service and quality customer care.

Whether travellers are looking for beach holidays, city breaks or safari tours in Qatar, our dedicated team is on hand to help

Four lucky winners will have the chance to enjoy a fantastic Qatar Airways Holidays package, each of which includes flights, a three-night stay in a five-star hotel and hotel transfers

them and make their leisure time hassle-free to ensure a seamless travel experience marking an unforgettable journey.

"Join our competition for a chance to win one of Qatar Airways Holidays’ fantastic prizes and let us inspire your next vacation, said, Greg Epps Qatar Airways Holidays Senior Manager Holidays.

Hotels participating in the sweeps takes include Crowne Plaza Doha, InterContinental Dubai Festival City, Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City, Al Badia Golf Club by InterContinental, JW Marriott Hotel Kuwait City, Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Kuwait City, Residence Inn by Marriott Kuwait City, Intercontinental Muscat, Riyadh Marriott Hotel and InterContinental Al Khobar.

The competition is valid for all residents of Qatar, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Saudi Arabia, 18 years and over. For full terms and conditions visit www. qatarairwaysholidays.com

PRODUCT LAUNCH

Panasonic introduces Tough, Eco series of air conditioners

Hilarious Tulu drama ‘Madime’ set to be staged on April 10 MUSCAT: After the roaring success of a variety of shows, NPA Events will once again be bringing a super hit Tulu drama Madime (Wedding), with a mixture of emotions and a strong social message for the Tulu speaking community, on Friday, April 10 at the Grand Hall, Al Falaj Hotel at 6.30pm.

This hilarious social comedy will be presented by Kala Sangama, a popular theatre group from Mangalore who have been mesmerising audiences with various plays for over 15 years. They have already staged several plays and performed over 1500 shows in Karnataka, Mumbai and the Gulf region, says a press release.

Madime, a very successful production, has been running to packed houses in Mumbai, Bangalore and Mangalore.

The popular play has also been staged in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait and Qatar and has enthralled the audience in the Gulf hailing from Mangalore (Karnataka).

The renowned writer, director and producer of the play, Vijay Kumar Kodialbail and his troupe 'Kala Sangama' will be visiting

Oman for the very first time.

Regarded as one of the most experienced and respected dramatists and film-makers of the Tulu stage, Vijay Kumar has over 15 full length plays to his credit. His feature film Oriyadh Ori Asal was a runaway success. Moreover, after over 1,000 shows on stage, his popular play Madime was made into a film and released recently.

It has been well-received and is running to packed houses in the theatres in Karnataka.

Accompanying Vijay Kumar Kodialbail to Oman is a team of highly popular stage and film artistes who will be showcasing their talent on stage with this play. The troupe comprising over 16 members include Rohini Jagaram, Ramesh Kalladka, Sunil Kumar, Arun Shetty, Roopa Laxmi, Dinesh Attavar, Navya Balladka and Ashwin Kumar. Together, they will create an unforgettable evening of mixed feelings for the audience.

Vijay Kumar Kodialbail says, “I am delighted to come to Muscat for the first time and am looking forward to performing there.

Madime is a tale that talks about

the social evil of dowry. It aims to show what parents go through when their daughters get married and sends across a strong message.

I am confident that the play will be well received by the audience who will have a memorable evening.”

'Madime' — Riot of laughter with a social message Madime is about a middle-class family that gets caught up in social issues like education, upbringing and dowry while arranging the marriage of their daughter.

While the arrangements are in progress, an anonymous telephone call creates a twist to the entire proceedings and adds spice to the already chaotic situation. The family that is arranging this marriage is left to face a lot of problems and in turn becomes more vulnerable and miserable. The play is all about the family overcoming all these hurdles and how the marriage is arranged successfully.

Madime, the Tulu play set in two engrossing parts with an interval, is sure to provide delightful moments for theatre-lovers of Muscat.

NEW IN OMAN: Omasco launched the industry first air conditioner with R410a refrigerant capable of cooling at ambient 55 degrees Celsius. – Jun Estrada/ TIMES OF OMAN

MUSCAT: With a diverse network of production and R&D facilities, Panasonic delivers innovative products incorporating cutting-edge technologies that set the standard for air conditioners worldwide. In keeping up with this trend, Panasonic has introduced two new series of air conditioners in Sultanate of Oman.

Panasonic’s new series of air conditioners for 2015 aims to meet the tightening energy saving regulations, increase in demand for new R410a refrigerants across the world and products suiting the tough local climatic conditions, says a press release.

“We are proud of the relationship with Panasonic over the years and also in the years to come. Today we are launching two new products giving more choice to our customers which gels well with Omasco’s vision to provide what our customers are looking for,” said Hussain Al Lawati, general manager of Omasco.

Speaking at this occasion of

the seminar for the new series of air conditioners in Muscat, George Alexander, general manager, Oman Marketing & Services company, said, “Our focus is always on bringing products which are as per global trends but still suits local consumer needs in terms of ease of use, durability and matches the new regulations which we foresee will be implemented in this part of the world.

With more than 40 years of experience, Panasonic has sold over 70 million air conditioner units in Japan and around the world. Our key focus in Omasco has always been on providing the best to the customer in terms of product and service because of which we have already trained around 500 technicians on these new models with the help of Panasonic engineers to ensure customers can take on the summer with confidence.”

The key enhancement for this year’s product is introduction of two new series of air conditioners The V and PV series with the new

R410a refrigerant is the industry first models which can cool up to ambient of 55 degree Celsius. It comes with features like “iAuto” which substantially increases the volume of air from the unit leading to the room getting cooler 15 per cent faster. This feature has been designed keeping in with Middle East requirements of more air throw from the air conditioner. This new series also comes with additional features of Econavi which reduces power consumption by 35 per cent and Nanoe G which removes 99 per cent of airborne microorganisms.

The second series to be launched is the new UC series which is being introduced keeping in view to further enhancing the standard line up. The key features of this product is having micro channel condenser, eco and tough casing on the outdoor which is made of Super Dyma, a special alloy which makes the outdoor unit more resistant to salt, air, water and other corrosive material.

EFFICIENT DRIVING

Shell announces Super Mileage Challenge 2015 MUSCAT: Shell Oman Marketing Company announced their initiative to draw public attention to safe and efficient driving habits through the Shell Super Mileage Challenge which stresses safe and fuel efficient driving.

Teams of two persons, holding valid Omani driving license and with a clean driving record can reg-

The team that gets the best fuel economy/mileage will be declared winners of the grand prize of Shell Super Fuel Cards for 2,500l each

ister as participants on the website link www.shellomansuperchallenge.com on or before midnight of March 19. Six teams will be chosen finally through a random draw on March 22. The participants will then undergo an orientation in safe and efficient driving before the event, says a press release.

The participating teams will

drive from North Azaiba Shell station to Oman Dive Centre and back, covering almost 100km in exactly the same cars. The team that gets the best fuel economy/ mileage will be declared winners of the grand prize of Shell Super Fuel Cards for 2,500 litres each and all participants will receive certificates and gifts.

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ROUND-UP Talent Hunters to host Musical Journey IV ‘Romance’ on April 4 The event will be a mixed bag of live performances, projections and choreographed dances MUSCAT: Talent Hunters Oman will be celebrating ‘Indo-Oman Friendship Valentine’s Day’ with Musical Journey IV – ‘Romance’.

A bouquet of romantic duets will be rendered and performed by the local artists including Omanis. It will be held on Saturday, April 4 at Grand Hall, Al Falaj Hotel, Ruwi, says a press release.

“It will be a mixed bag of live performances, projections and choreographed dances. This will make it very entertaining. Costumes and hair styling will match the original theme. We have also requested music lovers to come wearing costumes befitting the theme ‘Romance’,” Dr Sateja Dalal – Coordinator of the event said.

“This show is not about high tech, it is about high quality. Projections are being prepared carefully to match the singing. Two screens will be set up on the sides of the stage. Sound and light though not dazzling will be appropriate and matching the originality. Of course singing will be of the highest quality, matching professional standards,” said Haider Naqvi, Technical Director.

“After the theme was decided, the preparations started in January with the selection of the most

romantic duets – all-time hits of Hindi films. Of course we could not accommodate all the hit songs!

Most talented singers of Oman have since been practising hard to give music lovers of Oman one of the most memorable evenings.

For us ‘Most Romantic Couples’ will be those who have completed 50 years of married life. We intend to felicitate a few couples for the same,” Dr Sanjay Dalal, Founder

RECRUIT

and Director of Talent Hunters Oman, said.

The two Omani singers who will be participating are Mohammed Rafi Al Balushi – runner up at Muscat Idol – 2006, a very popular singer amongst music lovers of Oman and Jihad Al Raisi – finalist at Khafeef Youth Icon Singing -2014, who has recently recorded Batein Ye Kabhi Na Bollywood Cover II.

The participating Indian singers are: Shekar – Winner, Muscat Idol 2006, Nishant – Winner Muscat Youth Icon, 2014, Akhilesh – Runner Up, Muscat Idol- Teen Sensation 2008, Megna – Runner Up – Muscat Youth Icon-singing, 2014, Haider Naqvi, Sarfaraz, Aishwarya, Shraddha - all Muscat Idol finalists, Swapna – A professional singer and teacher. Vineet – A ghazal composer and singer,

who recently launched his music album Dil Se Dil Tak. Rose the ‘Little Wonder’. Murali, a seasoned singer, Deepak and Amita – very versatile and talented singers who are the new additions to the group.

Gajesh, Humera and Neeraj will be hosting the show. The gates will open at 5.30pm. The show will start at 7pm and is expected to get over by 9pm. The entry is by invitation only.

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM WEDNESDAY, MAR CH 18, 2015

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RECRUI JOB POSTINGS

The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.

— Jimmy Johnson

Guidelines for short-term and long-term career plan Every job-seeker needs to take the time to step way from the day-today grind of work and spend quality time reflecting on your career and developing some plans for your future

HOW many times will you change careers in your lifetime? If you’re like most people, you’ll change careers at least several times over the course of your life.

Every job-seeker needs to take the time to step way from the dayto-day grind of work and spend

quality time reflecting on your career and developing some plans for your future.

Whether you love your current job and employer or feel frustrated and confined by your job, career planning can help. Think of career planning as building bridges from your current job/career to your next job/career; without the bridge, you may easily stumble or lose your way, but with the bridge there is safety and direction.

Short-term career planning A short-term career plan focuses on a timeframe ranging from the coming year to the next few years, depending on the job-seeker. The key characteristic of short-term career planning is developing realistic goals and objectives that you can accomplish in the near future.

As you begin your career planning, take the time to free yourself from all career barriers. What are career barriers? There are personal barriers (such as lack of motivation, apathy, laziness, or procrastination), family pressure (such as expectations to work in the family business, follow a certain career path, or avoidance of careers that

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW.

are below your status/stature), and peer pressure. Finally, career planning is an ever-changing and evolving process — or journey — so take it slowly and easily.

To help you with your career planning, consider using the following exercises to their fullest potential.

Career planning exercises Analyse your current/future lifestyle. Are you happy with your current lifestyle? Do you want to maintain it or change it? Be sure to identify the key characteristics of your ideal lifestyle. Does your current career path allow you the lifestyle you seek?

Analyse your likes/dislikes.

What kinds of activities — both at work and at play — do you enjoy?

What kind of activities do you avoid? Make a list of both types of activities. Now take a close look at your current job and career path in terms of your list of likes and dislikes. Does your current job have more likes or dislikes?

Analyse your passions. Reflect on the times and situations in which you feel most passionate, most energetic, most engaged —

and see if you can develop a common profile of these situations. Develop a list of your passions. How many of these times occur while you are at work?

Analyse your strengths and weaknesses. Step back and look at yourself from an employer’s perspective. What are your strengths?

What are your weaknesses? Think in terms of work experience, education/training, skill development, talents and abilities, technical knowledge, and personal characteristics.

Analyse your definition of success. Spend some time thinking about how you define success.

What is success to you: wealth, power, control, contentment...

Analyse your personality. Are you an extravert or an introvert?

Do you like thinking or doing? Do you like routines or change? Do you like sitting behind the desk or being on the move? Take the time to analyse yourself first, then take one or more of these self-assessment tests.

Analyse your dream job. Remember those papers you had to write as a kid about what you wanted to be when you grew up? Take

DON’T WASTE A BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY LIKE OMAN.

Plastic takes 1,000 years or more to break down

the time to revert back to those idyllic times and brainstorm about your current dream job; be sure not to let any negative thoughts cloud your thinking. Look for ideas internally, but also make the effort to explore/research other careers/ occupations that interest you.

Analyse your current situation.

Before you can even do any planning, clearly and realistically identify your starting point.

Once you’ve completed these exercises, the next step is to develop a picture of yourself and your career over the next few years. Once you’ve developed the mental picture, the final step is developing a plan for achieving your goal.

Career planning steps Identify your next career move. If you have been examining multiple career paths, now is the time to narrow down the choices and focus on one or two careers.

Conduct detailed career research and gather information on the careers that most interest you.

Use the many resources we list in our Career Research Checklist.

Pinpoint the qualifications you need to move to the next step in

your career or to make the move to a new career path. If you’re not sure, search job postings and job ads, conduct informational interviews, research job descriptions.

Compare your current profile with the qualifications developed in step three. How far apart are the two profiles? If fairly wellmatched, it may be time to switch to a job-search. If fairly far apart, can you realistically achieve the qualifications in the short-term?

If yes, move to the next step; if no, consider returning to the first step.

Develop a plan to get qualified.

Make a list of the types of qualifications you need to enhance your standing for your next career move, such as receiving additional training, certification, or experience.

Long-term career planning Long-term career planning usually involves a planning window of five years or longer and involves a broader set of guidelines and preparation. Businesses, careers, and the workplace are rapidly changing, and the skills that you have or plan for today may not be in demand years from now. — Randall S. Hansen/ www.quintcareers.com

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ROUND-UP

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Microsoft Lumia: Strong option for price conscious customers Lumia 532 is available in Oman for OMR40 in a wide range of colours including bright green, bright orange, white and black

Times News Service MUSCAT: Mohsin Haider Darwish, the distributor for Microsoft devices in Oman, is looking at tripling the Microsoft Lumia sales in Oman, said Jayaprakash Menon, Director – Computers, Office Automation & Telecommunications Division, at the launch of Lumia

532 in Oman.

Microsoft Devices yesterday announced the availability of the Lumia 532 in Oman.

“Offering the latest Windows Phone 8.1 capabilities at an incredible price, Lumia 532 delivers smartphone experiences that help people do more on the go,” said Tariq Durrani, Business Manager

Emerging Market, Central Asia and PAN MEA for Microsoft.

The phone will be available in more than 250 outlets in Oman.

He also said that Lumia 532 is a powerful quad core smartphone that builds on the success of the

ATT R AC T I V E B E N E F I T S

Lumia 530. “With a premium layered design, Glance screen, front facing camera and more memory, Lumia 532 enables people to achieve their goals with the best of Microsoft’s experiences,” he said.

Some of the features include

switch effortlessly between voice and video calls with built-in skype integration and a front-facing camera, read, review, edit and share on the go with the full Microsoft Office suite coming preinstalled and keeping your photos, videos and office documents safely backed up with 30GB of free OneDrive cloud storage.

“Innovation is for everyone, and we’ve consistently worked to bring meaningful innovation to even more accessible price points,” said Jon French, Vice President Middle East, and Microsoft Mobile Devices. “The Lumia 532 appeals particularly to those looking to buy a smartphone for the first time, with an operating system that is both intuitive and deeply

personal,” he added.

“As smart phones become more and more part of the fabric of everyday life, features such as a powerful quad core processor, 5 MP camera and Microsoft’s worldleading services being available at such an accessible price make the Lumia 532 a strong option for our more price conscious customers” said Jayaprakash Menon.

Lumia 532 is available in Oman for OMR40 in a wide range of colours including bright green, bright orange, white and black.

“We want everybody to go for the smartphones. From students to people venturing into the business we want everybody to buy the smartphone as it is highly affordable,” Durrani said.

M E D I C A L E D UC AT I O N

ACADEMICS

Mercedes offers exceptional Al Shomoukh School introduces impressive packages to its customers

IMC to hold CME on March 21

MUSCAT: Demonstrating its ongoing commitment to customer care, Zawawi Trading Company, the Authorised General Distributor for Mercedes-Benz in Oman, has announced exceptional packages on its range of A Class, GLK, E Class and GL Class cars. Available until March 31, customers can now avail of these great offers to drive home the luxury that is MercedesBenz, says a press release.

“For us achieving outstanding customer care and delivering a premium brand experience is not a temporary project. We focus on the customer at all stages in our relationship; from the first call, or visit to the showroom, through the buying process, and continuing into aftersales. Evidence of our success here can be seen in the degree of loyalty that is displayed by Mercedes-Benz drivers,” commented Clive Hammond, CEO of Zawawi Trading Company-Automotive, Authorised General Distributor for Mercedes-Benz in Oman.

Enthusiasts of the extraordinary engineering, dynamism and supremely driving experience that is the Mercedes-Benz A-Class new

MUSCAT: Apollo Sugar-International Medical Centre (IMC), in their continuous endeavour to provide speciality care to residents in Oman, will be organising a special Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme at Hotel Al Falaj with renowned specialists from Asia’s most trusted healthcare provider — Apollo Hospitals Group, Hyderabad, India on March 21 and 22, says a press release.

The programme will be headed by Dr Srinivas, Podiatry Surgeon, Apollo Sugar.

Dr Srinivas highlighted the diagnostic aspects of diabetes foot care and foot ulcers.

“The best possible way for preventing complications of diabetes — including foot ulcers — is proper diabetes management with a healthy diet, regular exercise, blood sugar monitoring and adherence to a prescribed medication regimen. Proper foot care will help prevent problems with your feet and ensure prompt medical care when problems occur,” he said.

line-up of educators

breed of compact car will now be able to drive their dreams from just OMR199 per month while those looking for a versatile vehicle that will excel in any environment can now purchase the substantial, yet sporty and stylish, GLK-Class SUV with payments starting from as low as OMR239 per month.

The stunning E-Class sedan with its dynamic looks, superior performance, unrivalled comfort and next-generation safety is now achievable from only OMR253 per month and the exclusive offer means that the imposing on and off road presence of the sophisticated GL-Class SUV can now be experienced and enjoyed from OMR499

per month. Available until March 31, the offer also includes a twoyear or 30,000 kilometre service package, a three-year warranty and free registration.

“We are delighted to have been able to include four of our most popular vehicles in this offer and know that existing MercedesBenz owners looking to upgrade their cars, or add a new one to their household, will be keen to take advantage of it. We are also excited to welcome those who are looking to purchase our cars for the very first time into our family and look forward to sharing the Mercedes-Benz experience with them,” explained Hammond.

MUSCAT: The recently launched Al Shomoukh International School has announced the names of its key educators, well in advance of the first session that starts in August.

Dr. Cara Weston from Canada has been appointed as the inaugural Director/Principal. She has an outstanding record of achievement and is currently Director of Weston-Edell International Education Consultants in Montreal, Canada. In the past, amongst others, she has held positions as Director of Quality Enhancement and Dean of English at Raffles University Singapore, Head of International Education at Selkirk College, British Columbia and a Programme Coordinator in Sharjah, says a press release.

The team she will be leading at Al Shomoukh includes Dr David Postlethwaite from the UK as Head of Primary, Rose Golds from New Zealand as Head of Secondary and Dr. Johannes Erasmus from South Africa to head Student Coordination. Ahmad Sibai

O U T S TA N D I N G 4 W D

PROMOTION

Top selling Toyota Prado, a pride to own!

MUSCAT: A top-seller in regions around the world, the Prado is a pride to own and a joy to drive.

Born with the Toyota Land Cruiser DNA in its bloodline, the Prado takes Toyota’s enviable 4WD legacy way further. Drivability, reliability and functionality are Prado’s legendary strengths.

Throw in superior on-road and off-road performance, and it is not hard to tell that this 4WD is oneof-a-kind, says a press release.

Building on the outstanding legacy of its predecessors the Prado stands apart with bold looks - a macho grille and bumper guard adorned with LED headlamps and clearance lamps.

The Prado’s throbbing power and thrilling performance gives a taste of real 4WD freedom. Its class leading-features include Dis-

of Global Education Services, who has held prominent positions in Oman over the past 10 years, completes the senior team. The school is in the process of hiring classroom teachers from Canada, UK, Australia and New Zealand as well as locally, to ensure an impressive line-up of educators.

“At our launch in February, I said that the school would seek to recruit the best in education to deliver the best in programmes.

These appointments are testimony to this and our promise to deliver. Few schools in Muscat will be able to match the quality of our staff,” said Michael Bradley, Educational Consultant to Al Shomoukh International School.

play Audio with 9-speakers, Steering-mounted Audio, Bluetooth and MID Controls, Optitron Meter with TFT info Display and Cruise Control. The safety features include a Rear View Camera and Driver+ Passenger+ Curtain+ Side (Front) + Knee (Driver) Airbags.

Packed with a host of high-end luxury features, the Prado features

leather upholstery, woodgrain panelling, chrome-coloured side protection moulding; muffler-cutter; chrome rear-lamp garnish and impressive alloy wheels.

Prado’s imposing front has a wide stance to add to the bold look. The interior is refined and roomy to accommodate up to seven occupants.

Cushioned seats offer wonderful

under-thigh support. Second-row seats fold in a 40:20:40 split, offer enhanced utility with a slide function and walk-in accessibility for facilitating easy ingress and egress for the third-row seats. The thirdrow seats, fold in a 50:50 split.

The Prado also offers steering angle display, active headrest, electric tilt and telescopic steering column, side step with illumination, smart entry and start / stop system, parking sensors and retractable outer mirrors. A reassuring combination of active and passive safety systems ensures optimum protection for occupants in a Prado. DAC (Downhill Assist Control), HAC (Hill-start Assist Control), Airbags, VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) and A-TRC (Active Traction Control) are some of its advanced protection systems.

Allo Card offers attractive international calling rates MUSCAT: Allo, Oman’s first overthe-top (OTT) telecom service provider, announced the launch of its new international calling rates, offering up to 60 international minutes for just OMR1.

The market leading international calling rates are now available to all destinations around the world and accessible from any mobile or landline in Oman.

The new rates offer attractive discounts on international calls to destinations like North America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, South Asia and Far East, says a press release.

A spokesperson from Allo comments: “We are very excited to bring these new international

calling rates to the residents of Oman and are confident that both nationals and expatriates will find great value in our service as we strive to fulfil our promise of providing customers fantastic prices, great convenience and excellent quality.”

This unique service from Allo allows anyone in Oman to avail the very attractive international calling rates from their existing landlines or mobiles without having to acquire a separate SIM card or connection.

Interested customers can simply purchase an Allo Card available for OMR1 and OMR5 from any telephone card outlet across the Sultanate.

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WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM WEDNESDAY, MAR CH 18, 2015 5

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SPOR YOUR GAME

S

SOUTH AFRICA OUT TO SHED UNWANTED TAG South Africa have a chance to finally shed their reputation as one of the most mentally fragile teams when they take on Sri Lanka in what should be a tight World Cup quarterfinal on Wednesday. >C3

Oman team miss out on medal The penultimate day of the GCC Women’s Games turned out to be a disappointing day for Oman as their bowling team narrowly missed out on a medal

MUSCAT: It was a day of emotional scenes at the Oman Bowling Centre as hosts narrowly missed out on a medal in the team bowling competition on the penultimate day of the GCC Women’s Games on Tuesday.

CONTASTING EMOTIONS: The medal winners pose on the podium while Oman are left in tears after the team bowling competition on Tuesday. – JUN ESTRADA/Times of Oman

The Omani team, comprising Aisha Al Sibani (977), Nadira Al Said (921), Shakila Al Esari (979) and Laila Al Harthi (968) bowled excellently but were left in tears as their total score of 3,845 fell short of the UAE’s total of 3,854. The UAE took the bronze behind silver medallist Kuwait (3,935).

Meanwhile, Bahrain clinched

gold with 4,313 score to extend the their country’s lead at the top of the medal standings. Oman are in the second place in the standings followed by the UAE. On Monday, Oman won two silver and two bronze medals in taekwondo competitions. In the under 71kg contest, Zawan Zaid won silver behind Bahrain’s Fajar

Ali while the two available bronze medals went to UAE’s Maitha Said and Kuwait’s Reem Khalid.

In the under 67kg event, Oman’s Riyam Zaid won silver with Ala Abdulaziz of Bahrain and Kuwait’s Batool Yaqoob taking gold and bronze respectively.

In the under 73kg event, local girl Amani Khalifa and Bah-

OMAN’S ASIAN TENT PEGGING CHAMPIONS ACCORDED HERO’S WELCOME

rain’s Jumana Mohammed won the bronze medals while Kuwait’s Abrar Moosa bagged gold and UAE’s Abir Rashid won the silver.

In the under 49kg contest, Qatar’s Kalssam Al Muttawa won the gold, Kuwait’s Zahra Jada won silver and UAE’s Al Ghalia Askar and Oman’s Radhiya Mohammed won the bronze medals.

On the concluding day of the games, Oman volleyball team will vying with the UAE for the gold medal. The organisers have planned a colourful closing ceremony which will be held at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex under the auspices of Minister of Sports Affairs Sheikh Saad bin Mohammed Al Mardhouf Al Saadi at 8. p.m.

Oman’s tent pegging team, who won the Asian championship title and finished runners-up in an international tent pegging championships in India, were given a rousing reception on their return on Tuesday. The members of the victorious team and their accompanying delegates were received at the Muscat International Airport by Oman Equestrian Federation (OEF) chief Sayyid Mundhir Al Busaidy and board members as well as the officials of the Ministry of Sports Affairs. In the two championships held in Noida, near the Indian capital of New Delhi, the Ooredoo-sponsored Oman team won a total of 14 medals to emerge Asian champions while clinching the second place in the international tournament. — Supplied photo

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SPORTS FOOTBALL

OFA extends partnership with KUDOS MUSCAT: Oman Football Association (OFA) and KUDOS, who were roped in by the association as a partner for His Majesty’s Cup a year ago, have mutually agreed to extend their partnership.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, OFA Acting General Secretary Sultan Al Zadjali said: “It’s great news that KUDOS have reaffirmed their support to the OFA to enable us to deliver further improvements.

The year 2014 saw 57 OFA staff undertake a personality review using the world leading analysis tool, Clarity 4D — this helped us as part of our ongoing HR improvement process to better align staff in their jobs.”

As part of the new partnership for 2015, KUDOS will be preparing a series of activations, including workshops, that will offer our staff more opportunities for their Continuing Professional Development.

Kudos were the main presenting partner for the HM’s Cup in 2014, and their new deal in 2015 sees them extend as a supporter for the HM’s Cup. Marie Taylor, KUDOS Managing Director, was excited about the plans the OFA has. “We had a great year working with the OFA, and we were delighted to be in a position to extend the partnership, as we feel there is so much more we can offer.

“We also want to support the development of Oman’s most popular sport and as we move into 2015, we are looking forward to potentially working with the clubs across Oman.”

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Oman squad ready for GCC U-15 golf tourney

C E L E B R AT I O N S

Festival cricket to mark GCC’s 10th anniversary

The four-day GCC Under-15 Golf Championship

DECADE OF CRICKET: The team behind Gulf Cricket Centre.

starts in Dubai on Wednesday

MUSCAT: Oman junior national team are confident of achieving good results at the GCC Under-15 Golf Championship which starts Dubai on Wednesday.

According to a press statement issued by the Oman Golf Committee (OGC) on Tuesday, the Sultanate’s junior squad have already arrive in Dubai underwent practice sessions ahead of the tourna-

ment which lasts till Saturday.

The Omani delegation is led

by Oman Golf Committee (OGC) Mundhir Al Barwani and OGC member Ahmed Al Jahadhamy

is accompanying the players as team manager.

The Oman team comprises Rashad Al Barwani, Fahad Hareb and Haitham Al Zubair.

CRICKET

BOC team to undergo training in India MUSCAT: The under-14 cricket team of Bosher Olympic Center (BOC) will undergo a training camp in the western Indian city of Goa from March 19 to 31.

According to a press release issued by the club, during the camp the team will be play a ten friendly matches against the local cricket training centers in Goa at four different venues. All the matches will be played on turf grounds.

The touring team also comprises a young and talented girl,

Shreya who represented Oman at the GCC Women’s Cricket Tournament, recently organised by Oman Cricket.

All the selected players had

MUSCAT: The Gulf Cricket Centre (GCC) will celebrate their 10th anniversary with special cricket festival match at Municipality Ground, opposite Sultan Centre, in Al Amerat on March 21.

The centre, then known as Maruti Cricket Centre, was launched back in 1996 by Mohammed Irshad.

The festival match between Maruti Reds and Maruti Blues,

the teams comprising former students of academy, the supporters and team members, will be a 30 overs-a-side affair and will start at 7.30 am.

Arun Kumar Panday, MD of Al Yam Enterprise LLC, will be the chief guest and the guests of honour will be Hadid Abdullah Al Bahrain, Operations Manager of Bank Muscat, and Mohammed Rafiq, CEO of Mohammed Rafiq Partner LLC.

QAD CLINCH ROCKERS CUP

QAD defeated SS Friends by 12 runs in an exciting final to lift the Rockers Cup. Batting first, QAD scored 85 runs thanks to a fine half century by man of the match Salman.

In reply, SS Friends scored 73 with Salim making 43.

Shiva of SS Friends won the best batsman prize, QAD’s Saad took the best bowler award and his teammate Salman emerged the player of the series. — Supplied photo

played for Bosher Olympic Center Under-13 and Under-16 teams in the Oman Cricket-organised Junior Cricket Tournament this season.

CRICKET

Dilshan signs for Derbyshire LONDON: Sri Lanka batsman Tillakaratne Dilshan will spend two spells with Derbyshire this season, the English County Championship Division Two side announced on Tuesday.

The experienced 38-year-old will be available for up to four Twenty20 Blast fixtures and two County Championship games when he replaces New Zealand’s Martin Guptill as Derbyshire’s overseas player in June.

He will then return to the County Ground at the beginning of August after playing in the Caribbean Premier League.

“Derbyshire are an ambitious club with an exciting young team and I’m looking forward to joining them in the NatWest T20 Blast and then returning to help them finish the season strongly,” Dilshan told the club website.

“I am really pleased with my current form and this makes me confident I can make a strong contribution to Derbyshire this season.” - AFP

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TODAY’S MATCH (FIRST QUARTERFINAL) SRI LANKA V SOUTH AFRICA (7:30AM OMAN TIME)

C O M M E N TA RY

Proteas keen to rewrite history

S

INTERACTING DURING TRAINING: South African cricketers Hashim Amla, left, Farhaan Behardien, centre, and captain AB de Villiers, right, interact during a training session at the Sydney Cricket Ground. – AFP

South Africa out to shed unwanted tag FA C T B O X

The Proteas boast the number one ranked batsman in world cricket in skipper AB de Villiers, while elegant Sri Lanka lefthander Kumar Sangakkara’s four successive centuries make him the form batsman of the tournament

SYDNEY: South Africa have a chance to finally shed their reputation as one of the most mentally fragile teams in international sport when they take on Sri Lanka in what should be a tight World Cup quarterfinal on Wednesday.

The Proteas boast the number one ranked batsman in world cricket in skipper AB de Villiers, while elegant Sri Lanka lefthander Kumar Sangakkara’s four successive centuries make him the form batsman of the tournament.

Neither side has had the bowling performances they had hoped for so far but both are expecting key interventions from their top pacemen in the knockout stages, Dale Steyn for South Africa and Lasith Malinga for Sri Lanka.

Both showed good form in the pool stage but lost two of their six games, while their record against each other in One-day Interna-

SOUTH AFRICA Captain: AB de Villiers Coach: Russell Domingo Squad: AB de Villiers, Hashim Amla, Kyle Abbott, Farhaan Behardien, Quinton de Kock, JP Duminy, Faf du Plessis, Imran Tahir, David Miller, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Aaron Phangiso, Vernon Philander, Rilee Rossouw, Dale Steyn.

Results so far (P6 W4 L2): Beat Zimbabwe by 62 runs. (David Miller and JP Duminy starred in a record 256-run fifth wicket stand to sink Zimbabwe) Lost to India by 130 runs. (Could not contain India’s top order and imploded while chasing) Beat West Indies by 257 runs. (De Villiers blasted a 66-ball 162 not out and they shot out West Indies in 34th over) Beat Ireland by 201 runs. (Centuries

by Amla and Du Plessis set the tone for another huge win) Lost to Pakistan by 29 runs (D/L method).

(Bowled out Pakistan in 47th over but faltered in chase) Beat UAE by 146 runs. (Solid middle order batting laid foundation for easy win) Best performances: AB de Villiers (417 runs): Enhanced his 360-degree batting reputation with scintillating shot-making.

Third in the run-getters’ list with a mindboggling 144-plus strike rate.

Morne Morkel (13 wickets): Outshone pace colleague Dale Steyn, generating disconcerting bounce from lively pitches to trouble opponents.

Key to beating Sri Lanka: Will need to negate Kumar Sangakkara’s red-hot form and see through Lasith Malinga’s tricky overs.

SRI LANKA Captain: Angelo Mathews

tionals is well balanced with Sri Lanka just ahead on 29 wins to 28 for South Africa. Where Sri Lanka have a clear edge, however, is in the World Cup record books.

Champions in 1996 and finalists in the 2007 and 2011 tournaments, the islanders have shown the ability to hit form at the right

Coach: Marvan Atapattu Squad: Angelo Mathews, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, Kusal Perera, Lahiru Thirimanne, Thisara Perera, Upul Tharanga, Sachithra Senanayake, Rangana Herath, Lasith Malinga, Nuwan Kulasekara, Suranga Lakmal, Dushmantha Chameera, Seekkuge Prasanna.

Results so far: (P6 W4 L2): Lost to New Zealand by 98 runs. (Blown away by breezy knocks from Brendon McCullum and Corey Anderson) Beat Afghanistan by four wickets. (Jayawardene century helps them escape a potential upset) Beat Bangladesh by 92 runs. (Centuries by Dilshan and Sangakkara set up big win) Beat England by nine wickets. (Sangakkara and Thirimanne hit tons to chase down a 300-plus target with ease) Lost to Australia by 64 runs. (Glenn Maxwell’s 53-ball 102 trumps Sangakkara ton) Beat Scotland by 148 runs. (Sangakkara and Dilshan hit tons in facile win) Best performances: Kumar Sangakkara (496 runs): Became the first batsman to hit four successive World Cup centuries and looks unstoppable.

Lasith Malinga (11 wickets): Getting better with every match while sending down toecrushing yorkers and slow bouncers with characteristic regularity.

Key to beating South Africa: Need to contain AB de Villiers and bat around Sangakkara.

Head-to-head: Total Played: 59 (South Africa won 28, Sri Lanka won 29, tied 1, no result 1) Never faced each other at the SCG Last match: South Africa beat Sri Lanka by 82 runs at Hambantota on July 12, 2014

time and flourish in the pressure of the knockout stage. South Africa, by contrast, have lived with the “chokers” tag for many years now and defeat at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Wednesday will trigger another bout of soul-searching back home.

It was at the SCG that the

South Africans bowed out of their first World Cup in 1992 after the victory target revision in the wake of rain disruption condemned them to defeat against England. Their exits since have been a mixture of mistakes — Herschelle Gibbs “dropping the World Cup” in 1999 — high farce — Shaun Pollock miscalculating the victory target in 2003 — and simply being outplayed — against Australia in 2007.

On paper, the 2015 side is the equal of any of their predecessors and, it appears, the biggest threat to them winning a first knockout match at a World Cup is themselves. Sri Lanka know that and will take any opportunity they have to ramp up the pressure, especially if skipper Angelo Mathews wins the toss. Muttiah Muralitharan’s simple advice to his compatriots was “win the toss and do not get too hung up thinking about AB de Villiers”.

Unless there is cloud cover over the SCG, and the weather forecast indicates there will not be, both sides are likely to follow the spin-bowling great’s advice and bat first. South Africa lost to both India and Pakistan in the pool stage batting second, as did Sri Lanka against New Zealand and Australia, and they have concerns over the form of opener Quinton de Kock.

With Hashim Amla at the top of the order and Faf du Plessis fit again after a back problem, though, South Africa have enough batting to carry one outof-form player even before you consider the carnage de Villiers can wreak on his day.

Sri Lanka’s top order, which also features Mahela Jayawardene and Tillakaratne Dilshan, have carried them through to the last eight and they have managed well enough without frontline spinner Rangana Herath, who remains an injury doubt, for their last two matches. - Reuters

omething tells me that today’s first quarterfinal of World Cup 2015 is likely to be the closest of the four. It really has the potential to go either way. On the one hand you have Sri Lanka, finalists in the last two World Cups and desperate to go one better. The team they are up against are desperate too, but in a much different way. Since their first World Cup appearance in 1992, South Africa remarkably still await a first win at the knockout stage.

Repeated failures have earned the Proteas the unenviable tag of ‘chokers’. Their dubious record even prompted a South African journalist to write a book a couple of years ago titled ‘The Art of Losing’. So no prizes for guessing what their desperation is about.

The Proteas are clearly leaving no stone unturned in their quest to rewrite history. Having roped in Gary Kirsten and Mike Hussey as team advisors, they’ve now turned to adventurer Mike Horn to give the squad some useful tips on dealing with pressure.

Interestingly, Kirsten also had Horn address the Indian team that he coached to World Cup glory in 2011, so clearly he’s hoping lightning could strike twice.

It’s certainly not a bad idea to bring in someone from outside the sport to give his perspective where it’s needed. But you also don’t want to broach the subject of past failures; those are best left untouched. I’m eagerly

looking forward to this game as much as the two teams and will be at the SCG to watch it all unravel. Having also attended the Australia-Sri Lanka encounter which yielded nearly 700 runs, there’s no doubt in my mind that the team that wins the toss will bat first and look to post 300 plus. The wicket has a tendency to slow down a bit as the match progresses, so anything over 300 should make for a tricky chase.

Sri Lanka will surely bank on the quality of their batsmen, particularly their big guns in Dilshan, Sangakkara and Jayawardene, as their bowling really revolves around Lasith Malinga.

South Africa’s issues have largely arisen with the bat. AB de Villiers is always the key, but has lacked support at times from the likes of Amla and du Plessis who are undoubtedly quality players.

If South Africa can tackle the Malinga threat without losing too many wickets, that could pave the way for a big score. The crowd factor is something else the Proteas will have to contend with. Against our boys, it seemed like 90 per cent of the crowd was backing Sri Lanka, so I have a fair idea of what to expect today. — PMG

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We will not choke: De Villiers certain strengths we like to focus on and not focus too much on the opposition.

“We’ve got to (keep things) as simple as possible. Strike with the new ball, try and bowl them out, if we bat first get a big total and put them under pressure.”

The Proteas have never won a World Cup knockout match since their tournament debut in 1992, with a series of near-misses leaving them with the unwanted tag of ‘chokers’

SYDNEY: South Africa captain AB de Villiers insisted his side will not choke when they try to end their World Cup knockout misery in a Sydney quarterfinal with Sri Lanka on Wednesday.

The Proteas have never won a World Cup knockout match since their tournament debut in 1992, with a series of near-misses leaving them with the unwanted tag of “chokers”.

But for de Villiers, history really is all in the past.

“All I can say is we’re not going

CONFIDENT: South African skipper AB de Villiers feels history is past. – AFP

to choke tomorrow. We’re going to play a good game of cricket and come out on top. Simple,” he told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Tuesday.

“How do we approach it? We think we’ve just got to try and play a good game of cricket,” the inform batsman, whose last appearance at the SCG saw him score a

stunning 162 not out against the West Indies in the pool stage.

“I think it’s important to focus on what we’ve been doing well and try and do that tomorrow. We have

Not awful South Africa, like Sri Lanka, won four and lost two of their pool matches, with the Proteas beaten by 130 runs by defending champions India and going down by 29 runs to Pakistan.

“I don’t believe we’ve been awful, I feel we’ve had had a pretty decent tournament so far, finished second in the log (Pool),” said de Villiers.

“We had a tough game against India, where things could have been different, I believe.

“That’s about it. Other than that, we’ve played some good cricket.

Against Pakistan, I wasn’t too upset about that except for the fact we didn’t show enough fight with the bat. But we bowled exceptionally well. “We have to win tomorrow. We’ve lost two games (but) we are pretty much on track.

“That’s what it comes down to, no one is going to ask us if we played exceptional cricket when we win the World Cup. We are just going to say that ‘we won the Cup’.

“So we just want to find a way to win the game tomorrow.”

‘Mentally fresh’ South Africa, often accused of being excessively tense in big games, didn’t train on Tuesday.

“I just felt it was important not to focus too much on cricket today, sort of get the brain switched off a little bit before the big clash,” said de Villiers.

“It’s important for us to be fresh.

I believe we play really good cricket when we’re mentally fresh, and we play those pressure situations so much better.”

Some have tried to bill the match as a contest between de Villiers and Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara, who comes into the match having scored a record four successive one-day international hundreds.

“To be very honest, and I hope you don’t take it the wrong way, I couldn’t care less about him or me. I just want to win the game of cricket tomorrow,” said the 31-year-old.

“If it’s our No. 11 batsman tomorrow who wins the game for us, so be it. I just want to find a way to win.”

As for South Africa’s failure to win a World Cup knockout match, de Villiers said: “We can’t focus on what happened back in the day. We can just work with what we’ve got right now.

I’m the captain, and I want to lead by example. And I believe the guys will follow.” - AFP

Don’t litter a beautiful country like OMAN. Ensure proper disposal of garbage.

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Mathews banks on ‘home’ support When Sri Lanka played tournament co-hosts Australia at the SCG during the pool stages, the vast number of supporters from local expatriate communities, as well as travelling fans, generated so much noise and colour it made the match seem like a home game for the Islanders

SYDNEY: Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews hopes his side can feed off yet more passionate support from their fans come Wednesday’s World Cup quarterfi-

nal against South Africa in Sydney.

When Sri Lanka played tournament co-hosts Australia at the SCG during the pool stages, the vast number of supporters from

local expatriate communities, as well as travelling fans, generated so much noise and colour it made the match seem like a home game for the Islanders.

“If you play at the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) or SCG it’s like playing at home,” Mathews told reporters at the SCG on Tuesday.

“Most of the Sri Lankans across Australia or across the world, they fly into Sydney with immense support for us, and we really enjoy playing in Sydney. We’ve been getting tremendous support wherever we played.”

Sri Lanka have a fine record in knockout matches. The reigning World Twenty20 champions, they’ve also appeared in the last two World Cup finals and won the tournament back in 1996.

By contrast, South Africa have yet to win a knockout match at the

World Cup. Mathews said the key was to remain positive and not be overwhelmed by the fear of failure — a criticism that has been levelled against South Africa.

“I think that when you come to the knockout stages most of the things, most of the teams will think that you can’t afford to do mistakes or you’ll be out of the tournament.

“That kind of attitude is hard to get rid of. You have to play good cricket back ourselves and go out there and enjoy ourselves.”

‘History is history’ Turning to the Proteas, he said: “We all know that South Africa are a very hard team to beat, especially in this tournament.

“So the history, it’s history. You can’t really take anything from it.”

Should Sri Lanka lose on Wednesday it promises to be the

last one-day international for batting greats Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Sangakkara has been in sensational form this World Cup and comes into the quarter-final having made a record four successive ODI hundreds.

Jayawardene, who scored a hundred in a losing cause during the 2011 World Cup final against India, has had few chances this tournament since making 100 against Afghanistan.

“We’ve seen Kumar Sangakkara hitting four centuries in a row, and I hope and pray he gets the fifth one tomorrow, while Mahela is a bigmatch player,” said Mathews.

“So hopefully we can win, go into the semis again, the final and win to make it an historic tournament for two legends.”

But South Africa have an in-

form batsman of their own in skipper AB de Villiers, whose last appearance at the SCG saw him score 162 not out — off just 66 balls — against the West Indies in the pool phase.

“We all know he’s a destructive player,” said Mathews. “When he gets going, it’s really hard to stop him. So we’ll look to attack him early on.”

Sri Lanka remain uncertain over the fitness of Rangana Herath, who suffered a finger injury against England, with the bowler’s left-arm spin likely to be effective on a SCG pitch renowned for taking turn. “He’s still fifty-fifty,” said Mathews. “He hasn’t had a bowl yet. The physio has to have a look at him once again today.

“If he bowls at practice today he’ll be in contention for selection.

If not, he won’t be playing.” - AFP

EXPERT VIEW

Bat first, don’t obsess over De Villiers, says Murali South Africa have a reputation for buckling at the business end of major tournaments Muttiah Muralitharan

Sri Lankan legend

SYDNEY: Spin great Muttiah Muralitharan told Sri Lanka to bat first against South Africa and not obsess over the destructive batting power of AB de Villiers in Wednesday’s World Cup quarterfinal.

Muralitharan, a veteran of Sri Lanka’s defeated sides in the 2007 and 2011 finals, believes all the pressure will be on the team batting second at the Sydney Cricket Ground and that Angelo Mathews’s men can capitalise on South Africa’s poor record when chasing.

“I have two messages — win the toss and do not get too hung up thinking about AB de Villiers,” the off-spin great wrote in his latest ICC column. “The side batting first in One-day Internationals at the

Sydney Cricket Ground wins 58 per cent of the time according to the statistics but, in the pressure of a knock-out match as this one is, I reckon the advantage of runs on the board counts for even more than that figure suggests.”

South Africa’s four group game victories all came batting first — piling up 411 against Ireland, 408 facing the West Indies, 341 to beat the UAE and 339 in the win against Zimbabwe.

But batting second, de Villiers’s team made just 177 chasing India’s 307 and a disappointing 202 in pursuit of Pakistan’s modest 222.

“A total in excess of 300 batting first means the side needing to get those runs has to go at a run a ball

from the outset and, if wickets go down and the run-rate increases, and in the knowledge of it being a win or bust encounter, batsmen’s brains can get scrambled very easily,” added Muralitharan.

“South Africa have a reputation for buckling at the business end of major tournaments. Sri Lanka have no such hang-up having won the World Twenty20 last year and reaching the World Cup final in each of the past two editions.”

Muralitharan advised Sri Lanka not to get distracted by de Villiers who has made 417 runs at the tournament with his best score a blistering 162 not out against the West Indies at the same SCG where Wednesday’s quarterfinal will take place.

Instead, Sri Lanka have their own game-changers in Kumar Sangakkara, the leading run-maker with 496 and four successive centuries, as well as Tillakaratne Dilshan on 395 runs and boasting a best of 161 undefeated against Bangladesh.

“Sri Lanka need to focus on getting de Villiers in as quickly as possible. If he comes in with a platform laid, wickets in hand and the field spread then that is a licence for mayhem, especially against a Sri Lanka attack that has struggled to contain opponents throughout this World Cup. “But if AB de Villiers comes in at 80-3, especially in a big chase, then that could be a different story entirely.”- AFP

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EASY FEELING

India relaxed before quarterfinal against Bangladesh MELBOURNE: If India, the most watched and heavily scrutinised team in world cricket, are under any pressure ahead of Thursday’s World Cup quarterfinal against Bangladesh, they are doing well to hide it. With the weight of expectation of the world’s second most populated country on their shoulders, India’s players could hardly be any more relaxed.

On Tuesday, less than 48 hours before the start of the match, the players ventured to the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Rather than hitting the nets to practise their batting and bowling, the players took it easy, with a light-hearted game of soccer on the stadium’s sprawling outfield.

Despite being followed by a massive Indian media contingent, the team did not make themselves available for media interaction, maintaining a cloak of silence until Wednesday’s mandatory pregame news conference.

As the defending World Cup champions and one of two unbeaten teams in the tournament — the other is New Zealand — India will go into Thursday’s match as overwhelming favourites to win but still wary about their opponents.

Bangladesh famously beat India at the 2007 World Cup but have beaten their great rivals just once since then and retired India bowler Javagal Srinath said history would not repeat itself this week.

“I know that every time India meet Bangladesh in the World Cup, everyone goes back to 2007 and what happened in Port of Spain.

This Indian side bears no resemblance to that team whose morale was so low right from the start of the competition,” he wrote in a column that appeared in Tuesday’s Hindustan Times newspaper.

“Even though Bangladesh are playing their best cricket, this is a happy Indian side that has mastered the art of winning crunch games.”

For India, the weight of expectation can sometimes be overbearing. They have been feted like rockstars at every match they have played during the tournament and

a crowd of 80,000 is expected to flock to the MCG for Thursday’s sudden-death encounter.

Complacency may have loomed as the biggest danger but India captain Mahendra Singh has said the pressure to succeed was enough to ensure they never let their guard down.

“Irrespective of which team we play or which tournament we play, we are under pressure,” he said after his team’s final pool game win.

“The good thing, the boys are quite used to it.

“Once a few times there have been instances where we are down, but from that position, also, we have come back strongly and we have done well.” - Reuters

BIT OF FOOTBALL: Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni,

right, dribbles the ball past teammate Ajinkya Rahane, left, in a game of football during a training session in Melbourne. – AFP

Tigers look to past glories for inspiration in quarters The Tigers are used to living in India’s cricketing shadow and are happy to play the role of underdogs against their neighbours

MELBOURNE: Bangladesh know the odds are stacked against them beating India in Thursday’s World Cup quarterfinal at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. If history and current form are any guide, India should win in a canter. Bangladesh have done well just to make the quarterfinals, beating England, Scotland and Afghanistan along the way, but few expect them to go any further.

And that suits Bangladesh just fine. The Tigers are used to living in India’s cricketing shadow and are happy to play the role of underdogs against their subcontinent neighbours.

And while they have only managed three wins over India in

TRAINING SESSION: Bangladesh players training at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. – AFP

28 One Day Internationals it is enough to give the Tigers hope.

Their most famous win came at the 2007 World Cup when Bangladesh beat India by five wickets at Queen’s Park Oval at Port of Spain.

It was only a pool match but the result meant India failed to make it past the first round.

For the Bangladeshi players, 2007 remains a constant source of inspiration, even if it removed the veil of surprise.

“Obviously it will be in our memory,” Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan told a news conference on Tuesday.

“But it’s a new game and we all know it. India are a very good side, they have some world class players. Obviously it’s going to be hard for us. We know that but we’re up for the challenge.”

‘Fearless cricket’ India avenged their loss to Bangladesh at the 2011 World Cup, which they went on to win, and have been punishing them ever since. Since 2007, Bangladesh have beaten India just once, in 2012.

Shakib, currently ranked the world’s top all-rounder, said Bangladesh were adopting the same approach they had in 2007 in the hope of producing another major upset. “I think we played fearless cricket and we all want to play that brand of cricket (again) and, so far in this World Cup, I think we’re doing it,” he said.

“India have a very good team.

They are the defending world champions, they’ve got some world class players, but we’re doing well in this World Cup, our confidence is high enough and we’re up for the match.”

Bangladesh were once regarded as the whipping boys of world cricket but Shakib said India, perhaps more than most countries, had unwittingly helped them become a force to be reckoned with.

Many Bangladesh players, including Shakib, play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) alongside India’s top players and being exposed to massive crowds in big matches.

“This is the first time we’re playing in a World Cup quarterfinal but at the same time we need to understand it’s another game of cricket,” said Shakib.

“Obviously, on pen and paper, India is a better team than Bangladesh, no one has any doubt about it. But on the day it’s a oneoff game and if we have a good day and they have a bad day, you never know.” - Reuters TECHNOLOGY

From the knock-out stage umpire voices can be heard on television SYDNEY: Communications between on-field officials and TV umpires at the World Cup will be aired on television from this week’s quarterfinals, the International Cricket Council said Tuesday.

The decision covers umpire referrals, consultations and DRS player reviews and follows a trial during the one-day series between Australia and South Africa in November last year.

“The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that TV umpire communications during decision-making will be available to the host broadcaster to put to air for the quarterfinals, semifinals and final of the World Cup which will be played between 18 and 29 March,” said an ICC statement. - AFP

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W E D N E S DAY, MAR C H 1 8, 2 0 1 5

DID SOME OF THE TEAMS HAVE THE ADVANTAGE?

A GROUP

The Cricket World Cup’s group stage it’s over. Eight countries passed to quarterfinals already but, like in the most of tournaments, there are some inequalities which can be interpreted as disadvantages between the teams, like travel distance between matches.

Specially for this tournament where the distance between the stadiums it’s more than 5,000 kilometres.

Adelaide

Auckland

Hobart

Hamilton Napier Wellington Christchurch

Dunedin

Match won Match lost QUALIFIED TO QUARTERFINALS

Wellington

309

2,560

7,536

1,166

3,192

309 Christchurch

Melbourne

Melbourne

1 First match

Perth

2,277

5,199

Hobart 1,051

3,260

Brisbane

Sydney Melbourne

Christchurch 307

Wellington

2,584

SRI LANKA

5,144

1,051

2,217

Sydney Hobart

Dunedin

Dunedin 307

Nelson 550

1

1

1,996

There was a big difference in distance travelled by both the hosts.

1

Scotland was the only visiting team which travelled less

Hobart

3,290

2,126

307 Christchurch

13,158

11,303

Hamilton Christchurch Auckland 307 489 237 615 348 Dunedin Napier Wellington

TRAVELLED ROUTE

TOTAL DISTANCE TRAVELLED (IN KILOMETRES)

Sydney

Auckland 1,371

AUSTRALIA

NEW ZEALAND

Sydney Canberra

Perth

Last match

ENGLAND

SCOTLAND

Brisbane

Nelson

COLOUR KEY

Adelaide

NEW ZEALAND

AUSTRALIA

Melbourne

TRAVELLED DISTANCE BETWEEN MATCHES (IN KILOMETRES)

1st match

14 venues

Dunedin 1

BANGLADESH

Canberra 943

Melbourne 1,371 2,432

Adelaide

Hamilton

3,066

Brisbane

3,251

Nelson

11,063

Canberra

AFGHANISTAN

1

Sydney

Napier 2,136

5,313

2,356

4,762

Perth

14,567

1

Dunedin

B GROUP

Sydney Hamilton 713 249

2,637

SOUTH AFRICA

Melbourne

ZIMBABWE

Hamilton 432

Auckland 489 Wellington

Canberra

Brisbane Hobart 941 1,776

2,190

6,497

Adelaide 657

2,409

Perth

5,221

Melbourne

Adelaide

Auckland

Brisbane 3,036

2,487

2,558

Christchurch

WEST INDIES

Nelson 248

Canberra 249

Christchurch

2,385

3,260

Adelaide 3,217

5,313 Napier

Hamilton 2,412

Adelaide 3,251

Hobart

Nelson 3,565

11,645

1

13,502

1

9,843 1

Wellington

Perth 2,385

1

Napier

Canberra 943 852 Brisbane

UAE

8,675

Sydney

Nelson

IRELAND

Auckland 347

1

Perth

2,198

1

7,748 Hamilton 110

2,687

PAKISTAN

AFGHANISTAN TRAVELLED MOST

Auckland

Canberra

Nelson

INDIA

2,409

267 5,313

Brisbane

11,797 1

Napier Source: International Cricket Council

Graphics

C8

W EDN ESDAY, MARCH 18, 2015

MISSING THE GIANT

P E A K I N T O F R I D AY C L A S H

Losing Irfan huge setback, says Misbah ADELAIDE: Giant Pakistan fast bowler Mohammed Irfan was ruled out of the World Cup on Tuesday because of a stress fracture to his pelvis, an injury which captain Misbah-ul Haq described as a “huge setback”.

The 32-year-old first felt the hip injury in the 129-run win over the United Arab Emirates two weeks ago when he bowled just three overs.

The seven-foot one-inch fast bowler played in the crucial victory against South Africa, taking three wickets, before missing Sunday’s game against Ireland which Pakistan won to secure their place in the last-eight. The injury is a major blow to the 1992 champions’ chances of defeating four-time winners Australia in the quarterfinal at the Adelaide Oval on Friday.

“Irfan was one bowler who was different to all the others in the competition,” Misbah told AFP. “It is a huge setback for us but we have to live with it.”

Irfan, at seven-feet one inch, the tallest man to play international cricket, took eight wickets in the five matches he played at the World Cup. “It’s difficult because we lost two bowlers to suspension before

the World Cup,” said Misbah of ace spinner Saeed Ajmal and spinning all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez.

“We also lost two good quality pacemen — Umar Gul and Junaid Khan — also to injury. Now just when we have started to perform well this injury hits us badly.

“It’s a worrying sign for a captain but we have to find a way to handle this.” - AFP

DRIVE SLOWER LIVE LONGER

Watson wary of Pakistan danger ADELAIDE: Australian allrounder Shane Watson expects Pakistan to come out firing in Friday’s World Cup quarterfinal, saying a knock-out situation usually brought out the best in them.

“They can play some incredible cricket, as they have in times I’ve played against them, but they also can self-destruct quite quickly as well,” Watson told reporters at the Adelaide Oval on Tuesday.

“That’s the reason why Pakistan are so dangerous especially in a knock-out game like this quarterfinal. They have certainly got some match-winners. Once this Pakistan team gets on a roll, they are able to use that momentum to be able to shut down teams very quickly.”

Watson, at 33 one of the seniormost Australian players, hoped his team can see off Pakistan in front of their home supporters and move into the semi-final against either defending champions India or Bangladesh in Sydney on March 26.

“We know this is a danger game for us because they (Pakistan) can come on and just turn it on like they have throughout the times I’ve played them in the past.

We know we have to be at our absolute best and not give them a chance to be able to get that momentum. We know if they’re able to get that they can run away with it very quickly.”

The unpredictable Pakistanis bounced back after losing the first two games against India and the West Indies in the league to win the next four.

Pakistan, champions in 1992 when the World Cup was last played Down Under, beat Australia by four wickets in Colombo during the last edition in 2011, a match Watson did not want to be reminded of. “I try to forget that one because we lost it,” he said.

“We knew that was a really important game because if we lost against them we were going to have to play India in the quarter-

Shane Watson

final, which we knew was going to be a big challenge on their home turf. And it worked out that way.

I’ve got some good memories but also some bad memories that I try to forget as quick as I can. That was one.”

The Australian selectors were slammed for dropping Watson, a veteran of 184 One-day Internationals, midway through this tournament before reinstating him for the next game.

Watson, who had made 0 and 23 in the first two games, hit back with 67 on his return against Sri Lanka in Sydney and is now resigned to batting at five or six instead of his normal number three spot.

“If I am playing, it will be in the middle-order I think,” he said. “It seems my role has changed the last couple of games which is absolutely fine. I totally understand where I sit within the team.”

Watson admitted he had feared being left out for the rest of the tournament after being dropped for the match against Afghanistan in Perth, but has been amazed by the sudden turnaround. “I was not expecting to play in the tournament after being dropped for the Afghanistan game,” he said.

“So it’s amazing how things can turn around even quicker than I thought they would. I am just lucky the opportunity came around against Sri Lanka and everything I had been working on came together very much in that innings.”- AFP

C

SECTION

LIFE & STYLE

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM W EDN ES DAY, MAR C H 1 8, 2 0 1 5

C10

W EDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2015

PRAYER TIMINGS

FIND-IT-ALL Y O U R B I R T H D AY

BORN today, you seem to have a great deal of inside information about things that are not only important to you, but to almost everyone you know — and everyone else, too. You have a knack for knowing what is currently happening, what is going to happen — as well as when, where and even why. Indeed, there are times when you seem to demonstrate a kind of sixth sense about the future, but really it’s nothing but instinct at play. Your instincts are so keen that when you trust them — and you must always trust them!

— you are sure to do and say the right things, be in the right places and take advantage of the right opportunities.

Trust your instincts, and the world will be your oyster.

You know how to parlay the simplest advantages into the greatest possible gains. Indeed, you are likely to succeed where others fail simply because you are willing to do what you must do more quickly, without stopping to have second thoughts.

When you decide to do a thing, you do it wholeheartedly; again, it’s those keen instincts making things work for you.

Also born on this date are: Adam Levine, singer; Queen Latifah, singer and actress; Vanessa Williams, actress and singer; Irene Cara, actress and singer; Brad Dourif, actor; Grover Cleveland, US president; Wilson Pickett, singer and musician; Mike Rowe, television personality; Peter Graves, actor; John Updike, author; Edward Everett Horton, actor; Charley Pride, singersongwriter.

W E AT H E R

C

WORLD

Max 27 Min 21 Max 3 Min -3

Max 25 Min 11

Max 31 Min 25 Max 0 Min -7

Max 26 Min 18

Max 4 Min -1

Max 29 Min 17

Max 29 Min 20

Max 32 Min 18

Max 29 Min 19

Max 31 Min 20

[Feb. 19-March 20]

You may have to lay down the law when it comes to sharing. Others must display a little more respect for what is yours!

TAURUS [APRIL 20-MAY 20] Someone may be trying to change your mind, but it’s not going to be changed easily! A careful negotiation may be on the horizon.

GEMINI [MAY 21-JUNE 20] You may have to go through unusual channels in order to get access to something that you thought was yours by rights.

CANCER [JUNE 21-JULY 22] A certain familiar danger lies directly ahead, and it is that familiarity that can ensure your ultimate success.

LEO [JULY 23-AUG. 22] You’re more than willing to jump in and help those in need, but you must remember to make time for your own personal needs as well.

Max 29 Min 22

Max 21 Min 15

Max 33 Min 20 Max 29 Min 21

—www.met.gov.om

FROM MUSCAT (RUWI) QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (Route 36) Dept Destination Arrival Time Time 15:00 Quriyat 16:30 15:00 Sur 18:00 15:00 Jaalan 19:30 TO AL BURAIMI (Route 41) 06:30 Sohar 06:30 Buraimi 08:00 Buraimi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Buraimi 16.00 Sohar 16.00 Buraimi TO SINAW (Route 52) 17:30 Sinaw

GULF Abu Dhabi Doha Dubai Kuwait Manama Riyadh

31 25 28 22 23 23

23 20 22 16 20 15

WORLD Athens Baghdad Beijing Berlin Boston Cairo Colombo Frankfurt Hong Kong Istanbul Johannesburg Kuala Lumpur Lisbon Paris Perth Singapore Tokyo Toronto

13 26 9 11 0 24 31 16 25 6 23 33 14 15 24 32 18 0

6 10 1 1 -5 9 23 5 20 2 15 23 10 6 15 23 9 -4

[AUG. 23-SEPT. 22] You may attract something of a crowd with your unexpected antics, but take care that this doesn’t become a habit.

LIBRA L [[SEPT. [S S 23-OCT. 22] Be sure that, in your haste to finish your work on schedule, you don’t make an error that invalidates the entire project.

SCORPIO S [[OCT. 23-NOV. 21] You’re likely to receive help from someone in charge who knows how important your current efforts are to you.

SAGITTARIUS S [[NOV. 22-DEC. 21] You may feel as though you have no one to talk to about an issue that has been sneaking up on you for quite a while. This is not true!

CAPRICORN [DEC. 22-JAN 19] A matter of policy requires a good deal of attention. Ultimately, some changes may have to be made at the top.

AQUARIUS [JAN. 20-FEB. 18] You may be having trouble assembling your ideal team for a project that is going to start very soon. Take a little more time; don’t settle!

TO MUSCAT (RUWI) Operating Days Daily Daily Daily

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (Route 36) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 05:30 Sur 06:45 Daily 05:30 Quriyat 08:30 Daily 05:30 Ruwi 10:00 Daily

08:50 11:00 14:30 15:45 17:40 18.35 20:20

Daily Daily Daily via Ibri Daily Daily Daily Daily

20:50

Daily

TO AL BURAIMI (Route 41) 07:00 Sohar 07:00 Ruwi 13:30 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 17:00 Ruwi TO SINAW (Route 52) 07:00 Ruwi

To Yanqul (Route 54) 14:30 Nizwa 14:30 Yanqul

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (Route 54) 08:00 Nizwa 08:00 Al Araqi

10:20 12:30

TO SUR (Route 55) 07:30 Sur 14:30 Sur TO FAHUD - YIBAL (Route 62) 06:30 Fahud 06:30 Yibal

08:55 11:40 20:20 14:55 17:40 19:20 22:15

Daily Daily Daily via Ibri Daily Daily Daily Daily

10:25

Daily

To Yanqul (Route 54) 06:00 Nizwa 06:00 Ruwi

08:40 11:00

Daily Daily

Daily Daily

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (Route 54) 15:40 Nizwa 15:40 Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

12:00 18:45

Daily Daily

TO SUR (Route 55) 06:00 Ruwi 14:30 Ruwi

10:45 19:00

Daily Daily

10:30 11:15

Daily Daily

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (Route 62) 12:30 Fahud 12:30 Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (Route 100) 07:00 Salalah 20:00 10:00 Marmul 20:30 10:00 Salalah 23:30 19:00 Salalah 07:40

Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (Route 100) 07:00 Ruwi 19:50 10:00 Marmul 13:15 10:00 Ruwi 22:30 19:00 Ruwi 07:30

Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO MARMUL (Route 101) 06:00 Marmul

Daily

TO MARMUL (Route 101) 06:00 Marmul

16:30

Daily

Daily

DUBAI TO SALALAH (Route 102) 15:00 Salalah 07:00

Daily

16:50

SALALAH TO DUBAI (Route 102) 15:00 Dubai 07:00

VIRGO

6.17pm 6.13am

High tide Low tide

-1:39am

TO DUBAI (Route 201) 06:00 Sohar 06:00 Dubai 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Dubai 15:00 Sohar 15:00 Dubai

08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (Route 204) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 07:00 Fujairah 11.45 Daily 07:00 Sharjah 13.30 Daily 07:00 Dubai 14.00 Daily

TO DUBAI (Route 201) 07:30 Sohar 07:30 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Ruwi 15:30 Sohar 15:30 Ruwi

10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (Route 204) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 16:00 Sharjah 16:30 Daily 16.00 Fujairah 18.15 Daily 16.00 Ruwi 23.00 Daily

LISTINGS

PHARMACIES Round the clock Al Hashar Pharmacy, Ruwi: 24783334; Appolo Medical Centre, Hamriya: 24782666; Muscat Pharmacy, Ruwi: 24702542, Salalah: 23291635; Atlas Pharmacy, Ghubra: 24503585; Ruwi 24811715 Muscat Region Apollo, Al Hamriya. Tel: 24787766 Muscat, A Seeb Market. Tel: 24421691 Muscat, Al Khuwair. Tel: 24485740 Muscat, Al Hail South. Tel: 24537080 Dhofar Region Muscat, Al Nahdha Road, Salalah.

Tel: 23291635 HOSPITALS Al Amal Medical & Health Care Centre: 24485052 Atlas Hospital: Ruwi: 24811743/ Ghubra: 24504000 Al Musafir Specialised Medical Clinic: 24706453 Hatat Polyclinic LLC, Ruwi: 24563641, Azaiba: 24499269, Sohar: 2683006 Al Raffah Hospital: 24618900/1/2 Al Massaraat Clinic & Laboratory: 24566435 Al Makook Medical Coordinance Centre: 24499434 Apollo Medical Centre, Hamriya: 24787766, 24787780 Capital Polyclinic: 24707549 Badr Al Samaa Polyclinic, Ruwi: 24799760/1/2 Capital Clinic, Seeb: 24420740 Ceregem National Raak: 24485633 Dr Harub’s Clinic: 24563217 Elixir Health Centre: 24565802 Emirates Medical Centre: 24604540 1st Chiropractic Centre: 24472274 Hamdan Hospital: 23212340 International Medical Centre LLC: 24794501/2/3/4/5 Kims Oman Hospital: 24760100

24 Hrs Emergency: 24760123 Lama Polyclinic, Sohar: 26751128, MBD: 24799077, Al Khuwair: 24478818 Magrabi Eye and Ear Hospital: 24568870 Muscat Private Hospital: 24583600 Welcare Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, Al Khuwair: 24477666 Al-Hayat Polyclinc LLC: 22004000 ROYAL OMAN POLICE Emergencies and inquiries: 9999 General Directorate of Passport and Residence: 24569603 Directorate General of Customs: 24521109 Traffic violations inquiries: 24510228 Public Relations Admin: 24560099 ACCOMMODATION Al Bahjah Hotel: 24424400 Al Bustan Palace: 24764000 Al Khuwair Hotel Apartments: 24478171 Al Madina Holiday Inn: 24596400 Al Maha International Hotel: 24494949 Al Fanar Hotel: 24712385 Al Falaj Hotel: 24702311 Al Qurum Resort: 24605945 Azaiba Hotel Apartments: 24490979 Beach Hotel: 24696601 Bowshar Hotel: 24491105 Coral Hotel Muscat: 24692121 Crowne Plaza Muscat: 24660660 Crystal Suites: 24826100 Golden Tulip Seeb: 24510300 Grand Hyatt Muscat: 24641234 Haffa House Hotel: 24707207 Hotel Muscat Holiday: 24487123 InterContinental Muscat: 24680000 Majan Continental Hotel: 24592900 Marina Hotel: 24711711 Midan Hotel Suites: 24499565 Mina Hotel: 24711828 Muttrah Hotel: 24798401

Nuzha Hotel Apartments: 24789199 Oman Dive Centre: 24824240 Park Inn: 24507888 Qurum Beach House Hotel: 24564070 Radisson Blu Hotel: 24487777 Ramee Dream Resort Seeb: 24453399 Ramee Guestline Hotel: 24564443 Ruwi Hotel: 24704244 Safeer Hotel Suites: 24691200 Sheraton Oman Hotel: 24772772 Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa: 24776666 The Chedi Muscat: 24524400 The Treasurebox Muscat Hotel: 24502570 AIRLINE OFFICES Muscat Airport Flight information (24 hours): 24519456/24519223 Aeroflot: 24704455, Air Arabia: 24700828, Air France: 24562153, Air India: 24799801, Air New Zealand: 24700732, Biman Bangladesh Airlines: 24701128, British Airways: 24568777, Cathay Pacific: 24789818, Egypt Air: 24794113, Emirates Air: 24404400, Ethiopian Airlines: 24660313, Gulf Air: 80072424, Indian: 24791914, Iran Air: 24787423, Japan Airlines: 24704455, Jazeera Airways: 23294848, Jet Airways: 24787248, Kenya Airways: 24660300, KML Royal Dutch Airlines: 24566737, Kuwait Airways: 24701262, LOT Polish Airlines: 24796387, Lufthansa: 24796692, Malaysian Airlines: 24560796, Middle East Airlines: 24796680, Oman Air: 24531111, Pakistan International Airlines: 24792471, Qatar Airways: 24771900, Qantas: 24559941, Royal Jordanian: 24796693, Saudi Arabian Airlines: 24789485, Singapore Airlines: 24791233, Shaheen Air: 24816565, SriLankan Airlines:

WEDNESDAY

Min

L O N G D I S TA N C E B U S T I M I N G S ( O M A N N AT I O N A L T R A N S P O R T C O M PA N Y S A O C ) * S U B J E C T T O C H A N G E

[March 21-APRIL 19]

Sunset Sunrise (Tomorrow) 7:34pm 12:54pm

Southeasterly light to moderate.

SEA STATE: Slight along most of the Sultanate coasts with maximum wave height of 1.25 metres.

HORIZONTAL VISIBILITY: Good over most of the Sultanate becoming poor during thundershower and fog formation.

THE NEXT 48 HOURS OUTLOOK: Clear to partly cloudy skies over most governorates of the Sultanate. Chance of convective clouds developments and thundershowers over Al Hajar mountains and adjoining areas. Chance of late night to early morning low level clouds or fog patches along southeastern coast.

Max

OMAN

ARIES

12.20pm 3.45pm 6.22pm 7.32pm 4.58am

AIRLINES

lear to partly cloudy skies over most of the Sultanate with chance of isolated rain over governorates of Musandam and north Al Batinah and chance of convective clouds development and thundershowers may associate with hail and fresh winds over Al Hajar mountain and adjoining areas during afternoon may extend to coastal areas of Oman sea. Chances of late night to early morning low level clouds and fog patches along southeastern coast.

EXPECTED WINDS: Wind will be northerly to northeasterly light to moderate along Oman Sea coast while wind will be

PISCES Everyone is excited about what you will be bringing to the table — if, in fact, you are ready and comfortable with your commitment.

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

24784545, Swiss International Airlines: 24796692, Thai Airways: 24705934, Turkish Airlines: 24703033 MUSEUMS Bait Al Baranda: Corniche (seafront opp fish market), Open from Saturday to Thursday 9am to 1pm and 4 to 6pm Natural History Museum: Al Khuwair, Tel: 24604957, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm; Thursday: 9am to 1pm Museum of Omani Heritage: (former Omani Museum), Madinat Al Alam, Sat-Wed 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday 9am to 1pm, Tel: 24600946 Armed Forces Museum: Bait Al Falaj, Tel: 24312651, Open from Sat to Wed: 8am to 1:30pm; Thurs 9-12pm and 3-6pm; Fri 9-11am and 3-6pm. Al Hoota Caves 24498258; Turtle Beach 96550606/96550707 Children’s Science Museum: Shatti Al Qurum, Tel: 24605368, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday: 9am to 1pm Oman-French Museum: near Muscat Police Station, Tel: 24736613, Open from Sat to Wed: 8am to 1:30pm, Thurs: 9am to 1pm Bait Al Zubair, Muscat: Tel: 24736688, Al Saidiya St., Muscat museum@baitalzubairmuseum.com Open from Sat to Thurs: 9:30am to 6pm.

National Museum Ruwi: Tel: 24701289, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday: 9am to 1pm Sohar Fort Museum: Tel: 26844758, Open from Saturday to Wed: 8 to 1:30pm Thurs: 9am to 1pm Muscat Gate Museum: at Al Bahri Road, Muscat open from Sat to Wed 8am to 2pm

THURSDAY FLT NO

ARRIVALS FROM

ABU DHABI 0005 CAIRO 0005 RIYADH 0005 JEDDAH 0005 KUWAIT 0010 BANGKOK 0015 SALALAH 0030 SALALAH 0125 LAHORE 0215 ISTANBUL-BAHRAIN 0255 DOHA 0345 DUBAI 0355 BAHRAIN 0405 ABU DHABI 0405 DUBAI 0415 FRANKFURT 0610 BAHRAIN 0640 JEDDAH 0645 ABU DHABI 0650 SALALAH 0655 RIYADH 0700 MALPENSA 0720 JEDDAH 0730 DOHA 0735 KUWAIT 0735 PARIS 0800 DUBAI 0805 BOMBAY 0815 TEHRAN 0815 LONDON HEATHROW 0820 LAHORE 0830 DUBAI 0850 SHARJAH 0915 LAHORE 0920 DELHI 0920 HYDERABAD 0920 COCHIN 0930 DUBAI 0940 MADRAS 0940 BANGALORE 1000 COCHIN 1010 DOHA 1010 ABU DHABI 1015 TRIVANDRUM 1020 TRIVANDRUM 1035 DUQUM OMAN 1035 DUBAI 1110 KHASAB 1115 RAS AL KHAIMA 1120 BAHRAIN 1130 COLOMBO 1140 DUBAI 1200 MALE 1205 CALICUT 1210 SALALAH 1215 LAHORE 1215 MUKHAIZNA 1230 BANGKOK 1305 DUBAI 1330 KARACHI 1355 SALALAH 1445 KHASAB 1445 ABU DHABI 1530 DUBAI 1555 ISLAM ABBAD 1625 MUKHAIZNA 1630 BAHRAIN 1630 TRIVANDRUM 1705 BOMBAY 1710 CALICUT 1720 DELHI 1730 DUBAI 1730 LUCKNOW 1735 JAIPUR 1740 HYDERABAD 1740 DOHA 1745 DOHA 1745 DUBAI 1750 BAHRAIN 1810 KUALA LUMPUR 1910 SHARJAH 1915 MADRAS 1920 KUWAIT 1925 DUBAI 1945 KATHMANDU 2010 DUBAI 2030 JAKARTA 2055 MUNICH 2105 BANGALORE-HYDERABAD 2105 MALE 2110 AMSTERDAM-DOHA 2120 DELHI 2125 DUBAI 2125 BOMBAY 2130 COCHIN 2140 CHITTAGONG 2140 DUBAI 2145 MADRAS 2200 SALALAH 2205 DOHA 2210 BAHRAIN 2240 LONDON HEATHROW-ABU DHABI 2240 ABU DHABI 2250 AMMAN 2255 SALALAH 2305 AHMEDABAD-BOMBAY 2310 DOHA 2315 ZURICH-DUBAI 2320 BOMBAY 2325 FRANKFURT-ABU DHABI 2330 DUBAI 2335 BAHRAIN 2340 SALALAH 2345 DAMMAM 2350

WY406 WY682 WY676 WY636 WY648 WY816 WY910 BG021 WY916 PK225 TK774 QR1132 ET624 EK866 GF560 EY384 PK291 FZ041 MS930 WY114 WY658 WY638 WY902 WY678 WY686 WY412 WY144 WY154 WY674 WY668 WY644 WY602 WY202 WY102 NL768 FZ043 G9114 WY242 WY236 WY226 WY346 WY252 WY212 EK862 QR1128 IX443 EY382 9W530 WY604 WY844 WY918 GF562 WY424 WY372 FZ037 IX337 WY904 WY716 WY324 WY3302 WY818 WY606 BG023 IX817 WY920 WY906 PK229 WY3922 WY632 SV530 FZ045 WY328 WY656 WY204 WY292 WY246 WY3304 WY610 WY264 WY284 WY232 WY274 QR1126 EK864 WY3932 GF564 WY822 G9116 WY254 WY646 TG507 WY434 FZ047 WY664 WY338 WY614 WY124 4H561 KL441 AI973 WY624 6.00E+81 9W534 WY312 WY374 FZ049 AI907 QR1134 WY914 UL205 GF566 BA073 EY388 SG061 WY908 AI985 WY662 LX242 9W540 LH618 WY612 WY654 WY928 WY696 WY717

CAIRO 0005 RIYADH 0005 JEDDAH 0005 ABU DHABI 0005 KUWAIT 0010 BANGKOK 0015 SALALAH 0030 DACCA-CHITTAGONG 0100 SALALAH 0125 KARACHI 0210 ISTANBUL 0215 DOHA 0345 ADDIS ABABA 0350 DUBAI 0355 BAHRAIN 0405 ABU DHABI 0405 ISLAM ABBAD 0410 DUBAI 0415 CAIRO 0430 FRANKFURT 0610 BAHRAIN 0640 ABU DHABI 0650 SALALAH 0655 MEDINA 0700 RIYADH 0700 AMMAN 0705 MALPENSA 0720 ZURICH 0720 JEDDAH 0730 DOHA 0735 KUWAIT 0735 DUBAI 0805 BOMBAY 0815 LONDON HEATHROW 0820 LAHORE 0830 DUBAI 0850 SHARJAH 0915 DELHI 0920 HYDERABAD 0920 COCHIN 0930 ISLAM ABBAD 0930 MADRAS 0940 TRIVANDRUM 0940 DUBAI 0940 DOHA 1010 COCHIN 1010 ABU DHABI 1015 TRIVANDRUM 1035 DUBAI 1110 MANILA 1110 KHASAB 1115 BAHRAIN 1130 BEIRUT 1130 COLOMBO 1140 DUBAI 1200 CALICUT 1210 SALALAH 1215 ZANZIBAR 1225 KARACHI 1230 MUKHAIZNA 1230 BANGKOK 1305 DUBAI 1330 CHITTAGONG 1345 MANGALORE-ABU DHABI 1440 KHASAB 1445 SALALAH 1445 LAHORE 1500 DUQUM OMAN 1520 ABU DHABI 1540 JEDDAH 1550 DUBAI 1555 LAHORE 1600 BAHRAIN 1630 BOMBAY 1710 CALICUT 1720 DELHI 1730 MUKHAIZNA 1730 DUBAI 1730 LUCKNOW 1735 BANGALORE 1740 HYDERABAD 1740 JAIPUR 1740 DOHA 1745 DUBAI 1750 SOHAR 1805 BAHRAIN 1810 KUALA LUMPUR 1910 SHARJAH 1915 MADRAS 1920 KUWAIT 1925 BANGKOK-KARACHI 1935 TEHRAN 1940 DUBAI 1945 DOHA 1955 KATHMANDU 2010 DUBAI 2030 MUNICH 2105 DACCA 2115 AMSTERDAM-DOHA 2120 DELHI 2125 DUBAI 2125 BOMBAY 2130 COCHIN 2140 CHITTAGONG 2140 COLOMBO 2140 DUBAI 2145 MADRAS 2200 DOHA 2210 SALALAH 2215 COLOMBO 2225 BAHRAIN 2240 LONDON HEATHROW-ABU DHABI 2240 ABU DHABI 2250 AHMEDABAD 2300 SALALAH 2305 AHMEDABAD-BOMBAY 2310 DOHA 2315 ZURICH-DUBAI 2320 BOMBAY 2325 FRANKFURT-ABU DHABI 2330 DUBAI 2335 BAHRAIN 2340 SALALAH 2345 DAMMAM 2350 ZANZIBAR-DARESSLAM 2355

FLT NO

DEPARTURES TO

FLT NO

DEPARTURES TO

AI986 LX243 BA072 9W539 LH619 WY685 WY251 WY201 WY225 WY235 WY601 WY341 WY281 WY431 WY241 WY643 WY821 WY657 WY637 WY123 WY371 WY667 WY383 WY901 WY847 PK230 TK777 EK867 FZ042 QR1133 EY385 WY3921 GF561 4H562 WY903 WY603 WY3301 WY917 WY215 WY263 WY323 WY291 WY347 NL769 FZ044 WY385 WY245 WY231 WY843 G9115 WY815 WY273 WY905 WY605 WY203 WY253 WY337 EK863 WY311 EY383 IX554 QR1129 IX442 9W533 WY919 WY655 G9842 GF563 WY631 WY3303 IX350 PA451 FZ038 WY663 WY113 WY101 WY153 WY645 WY927 WY143 WY609 WY405 WY413 WY675 FZ046 WY613 WY913 WY623 QR1127 WY681 WY907 GF565 WY647 WY661 EK865 WY695 WY653 G9117 WY909 WY611 FZ048 WY635 WY915 AI978 FZ050 KL442 WY817 WY411 9W529 6.00E+82 AI908 AI974 WY677 QR1135 GF567 WY673 EY381

BOMBAY 0005 DUBAI-ZURICH 0020 ABU DHABI-LONDON HEATHROW 0025 BOMBAY 0025 ABU DHABI-FRANKFURT 0050 RIYADH 0105 MADRAS 0110 BOMBAY 0120 COCHIN 0125 HYDERABAD 0135 DUBAI 0150 LAHORE 0150 BANGALORE 0150 TEHRAN 0155 DELHI 0155 KUWAIT 0200 KUALA LUMPUR 0205 BAHRAIN 0205 ABU DHABI 0205 MUNICH 0210 COLOMBO 0210 DOHA 0225 MALE 0235 SALALAH 0240 JAKARTA 0245 LAHORE 0315 BAHRAIN-ISTANBUL 0350 DUBAI 0455 DUBAI 0510 DOHA 0520 ABU DHABI 0525 DUQUM OMAN 0740 BAHRAIN 0745 DACCA 0745 SALALAH 0800 DUBAI 0800 MUKHAIZNA 0800 KHASAB 0815 TRIVANDRUM 0845 LUCKNOW 0920 KARACHI 0920 CALICUT 0920 ISLAM ABBAD 0920 LAHORE 0930 DUBAI 0935 MALE 0940 DELHI 0955 HYDERABAD 0955 MANILA 1000 SHARJAH 1005 BANGKOK 1010 JAIPUR 1030 SALALAH 1030 DUBAI 1030 BOMBAY 1030 MADRAS 1040 KATHMANDU 1040 DUBAI 1055 CHITTAGONG 1100 ABU DHABI 1105 TRIVANDRUM 1110 DOHA 1115 COCHIN 1115 COCHIN 1135 KHASAB 1145 BAHRAIN 1210 RAS AL KHAIMA 1210 BAHRAIN 1215 ABU DHABI 1220 MUKHAIZNA 1300 CALICUT 1310 LAHORE 1315 DUBAI 1315 DOHA 1330 FRANKFURT 1400 LONDON HEATHROW 1400 ZURICH 1405 KUWAIT 1405 SALALAH 1415 MALPENSA 1415 DUBAI 1420 CAIRO 1430 AMMAN 1455 JEDDAH 1630 DUBAI 1700 DUBAI 1700 SALALAH 1800 DUBAI 1820 DOHA 1845 RIYADH 1845 SALALAH 1850 BAHRAIN 1855 KUWAIT 1900 DOHA 1900 DUBAI 1905 DAMMAM 1910 BAHRAIN 1920 SHARJAH 2005 SALALAH 2015 DUBAI 2025 DUBAI 2040 ABU DHABI 2040 SALALAH 2110 HYDERABAD-BANGALORE 2200 DUBAI 2225 DOHA-AMSTERDAM 2230 BANGKOK 2235 AMMAN 2240 TRIVANDRUM 2240 BOMBAY 2245 MADRAS 2300 DELHI 2310 MEDINA 2310 DOHA 2320 BAHRAIN 2325 JEDDAH 2350 ABU DHABI 2350

AI986 LX243 BA072 9W539 WY715 LH619 WY685 WY211 WY251 WY423 WY201 WY225 WY235 WY345 WY601 WY241 WY643 WY637 WY657 WY821 WY123 WY371 WY667 WY901 BG022 PK226 TK775 ET625 EK867 FZ042 PK292 QR1133 EY385 MS931 GF561 WY903 WY323 WY603 WY917 WY3301 WY291 WY263 NL769 WY327 FZ044 WY283 WY245 WY231 G9115 WY815 WY273 WY203 WY605 WY905 WY337 WY373 WY253 WY717 EK863 WY311 EY383 IX442 QR1129 9W533 WY919 WY655 GF563 WY3921 WY631 IX350 FZ038 WY3303 WY433 WY113 WY101 WY645 WY927 WY143 WY131 WY609 WY405 BG024 IX818 WY663 WY3931 PK230 WY675 SV531 FZ046 WY613 WY913 WY623 WY681 QR1127 WY907 GF565 WY661 WY647 EK865 WY695 WY653 G9117 WY909 WY611 WY635 FZ048 TG508 WY915 4H561 FZ050 KL442 WY817 9W529 6.00E+82 AI908 WY677 AI974 QR1135 GF567 UL206 EY381 WY673

BOMBAY 0005 DUBAI-ZURICH 0020 ABU DHABI-LONDON HEATHROW 0025 BOMBAY 0025 ZANZIBAR 0040 ABU DHABI-FRANKFURT 0050 RIYADH 0105 TRIVANDRUM 0110 MADRAS 0110 BEIRUT 0115 BOMBAY 0120 COCHIN 0125 HYDERABAD 0135 ISLAM ABBAD 0150 DUBAI 0150 DELHI 0155 KUWAIT 0200 ABU DHABI 0205 BAHRAIN 0205 KUALA LUMPUR 0205 MUNICH 0210 COLOMBO 0210 DOHA 0225 SALALAH 0240 CHITTAGONG-DACCA 0250 KARACHI 0310 ISTANBUL 0315 ADDIS ABABA 0450 DUBAI 0455 DUBAI 0510 ISLAM ABBAD 0510 DOHA 0520 ABU DHABI 0525 CAIRO 0530 BAHRAIN 0745 SALALAH 0800 KARACHI 0800 DUBAI 0800 KHASAB 0815 MUKHAIZNA 0830 CALICUT 0920 LUCKNOW 0920 LAHORE 0930 LAHORE 0930 DUBAI 0935 BANGALORE 0940 DELHI 0955 HYDERABAD 0955 SHARJAH 1005 BANGKOK 1010 JAIPUR 1030 BOMBAY 1030 DUBAI 1030 SALALAH 1030 KATHMANDU 1040 COLOMBO 1040 MADRAS 1040 ZANZIBAR-DARESSLAM 1045 DUBAI 1055 CHITTAGONG 1100 ABU DHABI 1105 COCHIN 1115 DOHA 1115 COCHIN 1135 KHASAB 1145 BAHRAIN 1210 BAHRAIN 1215 DUQUM OMAN 1220 ABU DHABI 1230 CALICUT 1310 DUBAI 1315 MUKHAIZNA 1330 TEHRAN 1330 FRANKFURT 1400 LONDON HEATHROW 1400 KUWAIT 1405 SALALAH 1415 MALPENSA 1415 PARIS 1420 DUBAI 1420 CAIRO 1430 CHITTAGONG 1500 MANGALORE 1530 DOHA 1540 SOHAR 1600 LAHORE 1600 JEDDAH 1630 MEDINA-JEDDAH 1650 DUBAI 1700 DUBAI 1700 SALALAH 1810 DUBAI 1820 RIYADH 1845 DOHA 1845 SALALAH 1850 BAHRAIN 1855 DOHA 1900 KUWAIT 1900 DUBAI 1905 DAMMAM 1910 BAHRAIN 1920 SHARJAH 2005 SALALAH 2015 DUBAI 2025 ABU DHABI 2040 DUBAI 2040 KARACHI-BANGKOK 2040 SALALAH 2110 JEDDAH 2215 DUBAI 2225 DOHA-AMSTERDAM 2230 BANGKOK 2235 TRIVANDRUM 2240 BOMBAY 2245 MADRAS 2300 MEDINA 2310 DELHI 2310 DOHA 2320 BAHRAIN 2325 COLOMBO 2335 ABU DHABI 2350 JEDDAH 2350

FLT NO

ARRIVALS FROM

WY636 WY406 WY682 WY676 WY648 WY816 WY910 WY916 PK229 TK776 QR1132 EK866 GF560 EY384 FZ041 WY114 WY658 4H562 WY638 WY902 WY686 WY144 WY674 WY668 WY644 WY132 WY602 WY202 WY432 WY102 NL768 FZ043 G9114 WY342 WY242 WY236 WY226 EK862 WY252 WY282 IX443 QR1128 EY382 IX549 9W530 WY3922 WY604 WY918 G9841 GF562 WY372 FZ037 WY384 IX337 WY904 PA450 WY3302 WY818 WY606 WY324 WY906 WY920 WY632 FZ045 WY348 WY3304 WY656 WY216 WY204 WY292 WY246 WY610 WY264 WY274 WY232 QR1126 WY664 EK864 GF564 WY822 G9116 WY254 WY646 FZ047 WY338 WY614 WY848 WY124 AI977 WY386 KL441 AI973 WY624 6.00E+81 9W534 WY312 FZ049 AI907 WY914 QR1134 GF566 BA073 EY388 WY414 WY908 AI985 WY662 LX242 9W540 LH618 WY612 WY654 WY928 WY696

ETA

ETD

ETA

ETD

W E D N E S DAY, MAR C H 1 8, 2 0 1 5

C11

ENTERTAINMENT CINEMA SCHEDULE

BAHJA CINEMA Insurgent (3D) (Adventure/ Sci Fi) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, 9:45 PM (PG12) The Gunman (2D) (Action/Crime) Cast: Javier Bardem, Sean Penn (15+) 11:45 PM Run All Night (2D) (Action) (15+) Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed Harris 2:45, 5:00, 9:30, 11:45 PM Cinderella (2D) (Adv/Drama) (PG) Cast: Lily James, Hayley Atwell 3:45, 5:45, 7:45 PM Superfast (2D) (Comedy) (15+) Cast: Lili Mirojnick, Dale Pavinski 2:00, 8:15 PM Walking on Sunshine (2D) (Musical) Cast: Greg Wise, Adrian Quinton (12+) 6:20 PM Before I Go To Sleep (2D) (Mystery) Cast: Nicole Kidman, Colin Firth 2:00PM (12+) Outcast (3D) (Action/ Adv) (15+) Cast: Nicolas Cage, Hayden Christensen 11:55 PM Demonic (2D) (Horror/ Thriller) (12+) Cast: Maria Bello, Frank Grillo 10:10 PM American Heist (2D) (Action) (15+) Cast: Adrien Brody, Hayden 4:00, 7:15 PM

The Gunman (2D) (Action/Crime) Cast: Javier Bardem, Sean Penn 11:45 PM (15+) Insurgent (2D)(Action/Crime) (PG12) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort 9:40 PM Cinderella (2D) (Adventure) (PG)

Cast: Lily James, Hayley Atwell, Richard 10:00am, 12:00, 3:45 & 7:40 pm Gold Class: 1:30 & 7:30 pm Run All Night (2D) (Action) (15+) 5:30 & 11:45pm Gold Class: 5:15 & 11:15 pm The Sponge Bob Movie: Sponge Out Of Water (3D) (Animation) (PG) 10:05 am American Heist (2D) (Action) (12+) Cast: Hayden Christensen, Adrien 11:05 am Superrrr Fast (2D) (Comedy) (15+) Cast: Lili Mirojnick, Dale Pavinski 2:00 & 6:10 pm Before I Go TO Sleep (2D) (Mystrey) Cast: Nicole Kidman, Colin Firth Gold Class: 3:30 PM (12+) Cairo Time (Arabic) (2D) (Comedy) Cast: Ayten Amer, Mervat Amin, Nour 2:05 pm (12+) NH 10 (Hindi) (2D) (Crime/Drama) 8:00 pm Demonic (2D) (Horror/Comedy) (12+) 10:15pm; Gold Class: 9:30 pm

SCREEN 3 Run All Night (Action/Suspense) (15+) Cast: Genesis Rodriguez, Liam Neeson, Joel Kinnaman 3:45, 6:45, 9:45PM

Run All Night – 2D (15+) (Action) Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed Harris 3:15, 7:30, 9:15, 11:30 PM Before I Go to Sleep – 2D (12+) Mystery | Thriller Cast: Nicole Kidman, Colin Firth 5:30 PM Cinderella – 2D (PG) (Adventure) Cast: Lily James, Hayley Atwell, 3:30, 5:30, 6:45 PM Superfast! – 2D (15+) (Comedy) Cast: Lili Mirojnick, Dale Pavinski, Andrea Navedo 3:45, 9:45 & 11:45 PM Cairo Time – 2D (12+) (Comedy| Drama | Romance) Cast: Ayten Amer, Mervat Amin, Nour El-Sherif 7:15 PM Demonic – 2D (15+) (Horror | Thriller) Cast: Maria Bello, Frank Grillo, Cody Horn 5:30 & 11:45 PM Apartment 143 – 2D ( 15+ )(Horror | Thriller) Cast: Kai Lennox, Gia Mantegna, Michael O’Keefe 5:00 PM NH 10 – 2D (TBC ) (Crime | Drama) Cast: Anushka Sharma, Neil 9:00 PM American Heist– 2D (15+) Action

SCREEN 1 NH 10 – Hindi (Suspense/ Thriller ) Cast: Anushka Sharma , Neil Bhoopalam, Ravi Jhankal, Darshan Kumaar 3:30, 6:30 & 9:30 PM SCREEN 2 Badlapur – (Action | Drama) – 15+ Cast: Varun Dhawan, huma qureshi, Yami Gautam 3:45, 6:45, 9:45pm

3:00 & 7:15 PM Insurgent – 2D (PG12) (Adventure) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel 9:30 PM The Gunman – 2D (15+) (Action) Cast: Javier Bardem, Sean Penn 11:15 PM

Insurgent (PG12) (Adventure) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, Theo James 9:00 PM The Gunman – 2D (15+) (Action) Cast: Javier Bardem, Idris Elba 11:45 PM Run All Night – 2D (15+) (Action) Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed Harris, Joel 3:45, 7:45, 9:45, 11:45PM Cinderella – 2D (PG) (Adventure) Cast: Lily James, Hayley Atwell 3:15, 5:45 PM Before I Go to Sleep – 2D (12+) Mystery, Thriller Cast: Nicole Kidman, Colin Firth 3:15, 5:00PM NH 10– 2D (Hindi) (Crime/Mystery) 6:45, 11:15 PM Demonic – 2D (12+) Horror, Thriller Cast: Maria Bello, Frank Grillo 5:15, 8:30PM Superfast! – 2D (15+) Comedy 6:45, 10:00 PM

Superfast! (Fast...er) (Comedy) (15+) Cast: Lili Mirojnick, Dale Pavinski 4:30, 7:45 PM Run All Night (Action | Crime) (15+) Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed Harris, 7:45, 9:45PM

Cinderella (Adventure | Family) (PG) Cast: Lily James, Hayley Atwell 4:00, 5:50 PM Demonic (Horror | Thriller) (TBC) 6:15 PM NH 10(Hindi) (Crime | Drama | Mystery) (TBC) Cast: Anushka Sharma Neil 11:45 PM Insurgent (Action ) (PG12) 9:30 PM The Gunman (Action |Crime) (15+) 11:45 PM

Before I Go to Sleep (2D) (Mystery) Cast: Nicole Kidman, Colin Firth 5:00PM (12+) Insurgent (2D) (PG12) (Adventure) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort 9:30PM The Gunman (2D)(15+) (Action) Cast: Javier Bardem, Sean Penn 11:45PM Run All Night (2D)(15+) (Action) 3:00, 7:00, 9:00 & 11:15PM Cinderalla (2D)(PG) (Adventure) 11:00AM, 1:00, 4:15 PM Super Fast..er (2D)(15+) (Comedy) 11:00AM, 12:45 & 2:30PM Walking Sunshine (2D) (Musical) Cast: Greg Wise, Adrian Quinton 6:15PM(12+) NH 10 (2D)(Hindi) (Crime) 8:00PM Outcast (3D)(15+) (Action/Adventure) Cast: Nicolas Cage, Hayden 11:30AM, 1:15 & 5:15PM Youm Maloush Lazmah (2D)(12+) (Comedy) 3:00 & 7:30PM Demonic (2D)(12+)(Horror/Thriller) 10:15 & 11:50PM

Run All Night ( Action/Crime / Drama) Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed haris, John C’ Reilly 4.00, 8.00 p.m, 10.00 p.m & 11.55 p.m.

CP No: 668 (15+) Before I Go TO Sleep (Thriller ) Cast: Nicole Kidman, Colin Firth, Mark Strong 2.00 pm & 6.00 pm CP No: 6669 (12+) Superfast (Comedy ) Cast: Lili Mirojinick, Dale Pavanski 2.00, 4.00 p.m., 8.00 p.m. & 10.00 p.m.

CP No: 667 (15+) Apartment 143 ( Horror/ Thriller) Cast: Kai Lenox, Gia Mantegna, Michael O’Keefe 6.00 pm CP No: 701 (15+ ) Insurgent (Action/Adventure) Cast: Shailen Woodley, Ansel Elgot, 11.55 pm; CP No: (PG 12)

Film Information - 24540856 / Advance Booking - 24540855 Website: www.albahjacinemaoman.com

STARS CINEMA Film information 24791641 / 24786776 Fireman (Mal) (Act \Thriller) Cast: Mammootty & Nyla Usha 3:30, 6:30 & 9:30pm Cinema Main NH 10 (Hindi) (Action\Thriller) Cast: Anushka Sharma, Deepti Naval & Neil Bhoopalam 3:45, 6:45 & 9:45pm Cinema – 3 Kakki Sattai (Tamil) ( Com\Act) Cast: Shiva Karthikeyan, Sri Divya & Prabhu 3:30, 6:30 & 9:30pm Cinema -2 Temper (Telugu) (Act) Cast: Jr Ntr, Kajal Agarwal 3:45pm Cinema-4 Picket 43 (Mal) (Act) Cast: Prithviraj, Javed Jafry 6:45 & 9:45pm Cinema -4

For More Information 24789032, 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om

ACES ON BRIDGE

SUDOKU

The suit combination that usually works

7

2

7 8 2

9

7 1 8 3 6 4 2 8 6 1

3 6 1 2 4

7

JANNAH AYSHA March 18, 2010

3 2 7

4 6 9

1 3 4

4 3 7 9 8 1 6 2 5 6 2 5 4 3 7 8 9 1 1 9 8 6 5 2 4 3 7 8 6 2 1 9 3 5 7 4 5 4 9 8 7 6 3 1 2 7 1 3 5 2 4 9 8 6

MARMADUKE

CROSSWORD

B I G NAT E

1 Lawyer’s charge 4 Pakistan’s language 8 Purse item 12 Hairpin curve 13 Jalopy 14 Brainstorm 15 Car owner’s need 17 NE state 18 Six to an inning 19 Animal fats 20 Abilities 23 Beauty pack 24 River in France 25 Galleries 29 Bruce — of kung fu 30 Bedding plant 32 Wyo. neighbour 33 Highest peak 35 Give off steam 36 “—! My Soul!”

(Little Richard tune) 37 Loft 39 “Shogun” setting 42 Gradually disappear 43 Love deity

44 Cape wavers 48 Provided temporarily 49 Hot drink 50 Hawaiian garland 51 Young fellows 52 Like a pittance 53 House addition DOWN 1 Not masc.

2 WNW opposite 3 PC button 4 Orange-and-white rental (hyph.)

5 Pays a landlady 6 Lecturer’s spot 7 Mdse. bars 8 Noisy insect 9 Bloodhound’s clue 10 Patch 11 Officially disallows 16 Bucket defect 19 “Peanuts” girl 20 — amandine 21 Ukraine city 22 Palm reader’s opener (2 wds.)

23 Newlywed title 25 Colony member

26 Designer label 27 McClurg of sitcoms 28 Road crew’s supply 30 Lowly labourer 31 Blonde shade 34 Heats chestnuts 35 Raised cattle 37 Croc relative 38 “Haste makes

waste,” e.g.

39 Thicken, as pudding 40 General vicinity 41 Ducks’ haunt 42 Get along 44 Its logo was Leo 45 Grand — Opry 46 Aunt or bro.

47 RSVP word

BORN LOSER

Answer to previous puzzle

ACROSS

MYSHA SHAFIN March 19, 2012

3 7 6 2 4 9 1 5 8 9 5 4 7 1 8 2 6 3 2 8 1 3 6 5 7 4 9

Previous puzzle Solution

HENRY Ward Beecher, a clergyman and social reformer who died in 1887, said, “Our days are a kaleidoscope. Every instant a change takes place in the contents.

New harmonies, new contrasts, new combinations of every sort.”

We see suit combinations at the bridge table every day. Most we have met before, but even then a few are misplayed with a fair frequency. In today’s deal, South is in three no-trump. After West leads the heart queen and East plays the king, what should declarer do?

South has eight top tricks: one spade, one heart, three diamonds and three clubs. The ninth trick might come from hearts if they are splitting 3-2. So South should duck the first trick. Here, East will shift, presumably to a diamond. Declarer wins and cashes his heart ace to get the bad news.

So he needs two spade tricks. In isolation, what is the best play?

One should play first to the nine (hoping West has the jack and 10), then, if the nine loses to the 10 or jack, lead to the queen (hoping West has the king). This is exactly a 63 per cent chance, but does not work here.

Instead, there is a much better play. South should cash a second high diamond and a couple of rounds of clubs. When everyone follows, declarer should take his third club and third diamond. Then he plays a spade to dummy’s nine (or covers West’s 10 with dummy’s queen). East wins and cashes a winner or two, but then must lead away from the spade king (or jack) into dummy’s ace-queen (or acenine).

Watch out for this endplay position with A-Q-10 or A-Q-9 opposite low cards.

— By Phillip Alder

WITH LOVE

6 4

8 1

HOW TO PLAY Fill the empty cells with the numbers 1 to 9, so that each number appears once in each row, column and area.

— Seven Galaxies

ANGEL MARIA TARSON March 19

T. R. SIVESH KANT March 20, 2010

Send us a colour photograph of the child (below 16 years) whose birthday you are celebrating, along with his/her full name, date of birth, address, telephone number and parents’/your name to Times of Oman, With Love, PO Box 770, PC 112, Ruwi or through e-mail to extra@timesofoman.com

KIDSPOT

H E A LT H C A P S U L E

C12

W EDN ESDAY, MARCH 18, 2015

EXTRA

Woman

who broke

the beauty It’s really nice for me to be able to show other people that there are people who are selves and to born differently than themselves realise that not everything is about the way hat you’re born that you look and the way that

M

elanie Gaydos was born with a rare genetic condition called Ectodermal Dysplasia, which leaves her hair, teeth and skin not properly developed.

As a child she experienced a lot of bullying due to her unconventional look.

The tormenting became so bad that at one point Melanie says she felt suicidal.

“Growing up I didn’t really have a lot of friends,” she said.

“As a child I faced a lot of bullying and a lot of people stared at me.

“When I was about 16 I was really depressed and suicidal I didn’t really want to live — I didn’t think that I would be alive past the age of 18.”

But her life turned around when she was scouted as a model.

Melanie began her career by

posing ng for her photographer boyfriend nd after moving to New York City four years ago.

From rom there things took off.

“I ended up meeting and starting a lot of my fashion work based off of Craigslist because there weree a lot of fashion photographers rs on there who were looking for models who didn’t have a stereotypical ypical look,” she said.

“My My very first professional job was with the band German heavy metal al band Rammstein — that was a lot of fun.”

She he often draws stares from otherr models: “Other industry models els typically don’t know what to make ake of me — they don’t understand d why I am there.

“When When I’m Melanie the model I’m really fierce and fearless. I’m free to do whatever I feel when I’m in front ont of the camera — I can behavee however I like.”

norms The 26-year-old admits she has had some “diva” moments on set.

“If someone treats me a certain way I will revert it to them, do unto others as they do to you — that’s my motto.”

Wrong perceptions Despite her happiness at having a successful career, Melanie’s condition has never gotten easier to deal with.

“A lot of people treat me differently — as though I was mentally challenged or inferior to them — in reality ectodermal dysplasia is a physical condition,” she said.

“Ectodermal dysplasia means my pores are very small and I have very little body hair.

“I do grow a little bit of hair on top of my head, but I also have alopecia, which is a symptom of the condition.

“I only have three baby teeth at

the moment — I grew baby teeth but because of how ectodermal dysplasia affects my bones and my body’s development — my baby teeth grew in and then they promptly started decaying.”

But she remains happy with her career choice and hopes it will inspire others who don’t have the typical look.

“It’s really nice for me to be able to show other people that there are people who are born differently than themselves and to realise that not everything is about the way that you look and the way that you’re born. “I just started modelling as a means to learn more about myself — I never thought that it would journey into where it has today.

“Now I’m a full time model and actress and able to travel the world. I’m flown to different countries to do different projects it’s really amazing.” — Sarah Barns/Daily Express

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W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 1 8 , 2 0 1 5

SECTION

CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

RENT

D2

VACANCY

D4

CARGO

D7

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

D2

W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 1 8 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

FOR RENT

OFFICES FOR RENT Premium offices to let a very good location on the main road very close to Zakher Mall, Al Khawiar. Business Center has offices with sizes of 50m2, 110m2, 180m2, 207m2, 230m2, 437m2.

Showroom also available at Business Center, Area 500m2 with central A/c.

Offices with Central Air-conditions, Security System with CCTV cameras, and Security presence in the building.

Contact: 97377355 / 97307476, Email id: aaleem@ggcoman.com

We have 1BHK , 2BHK flats & office available in Mabela 7, brand new building main road, 1BHK RO 175/- , 2BHK RO 220/- only. Contact 93782735 / 99208033

We have 150 sqm office in Ghubra main road prime location already glass partition done. Office with pantry & 2 washrooms. Contact 9378235 / 99208033

We have 2050 sqm land in Ghala 800 sqm constructed Warehouse and other area open land. Prime location near Coco Cola Ware house very nice place. Contact 93782735 / 99208033

We have 2 BHK flat & 100 sqm office & 60 sqm shop for rent in Ghala brand new building. Contact 93782735 / 99208033

We have flats, offices, villa, shops & ware house for rent in Ghubra, Azaiba, Bousher, Ruwi, Mumtaz , Darsait, Mabela. Contact 93782735 / 99208033 1,000 sq mtrs industrial land in Misfah Industrial area near to Khanco.

OMR 1,500 Monthly. Electricity and boundary wall will be provided.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 1,000 sq mtrs industrial land in Misfah Industrial area near to Khanco. OMR 1,500 Monthly. It has Electricity and boundary wall.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

2 BHK commercial & residential flat at Honda road. Contact 98087644 / 99795241 2BHK flat for rent Wadi Kabir near Kuwaiti Mosque. Contact 97007939 / 92629232 2 bed room, 3 toilets 120 sq. mtr fully furnished parking near Star Cinema 450/- OMR / monthly.

Contact 91778735 Available industrial open land 25,000 m2 and 450m2 of 2 Nos, covered ware house in Al Rumais and two shutter shops 70 m2 each in Mabellah, near Oman oil petrol pump station and MAC Donalad. Contact 99318152 Email ahastco@gmail.com

Flat with 2 bedrooms and big hall in Mawalih near King burger R.O 310/-. Contact 99886099

1BHK available Ghubra near Al Maha INT Hotel. Contact 99269751

2BHK Apartment available at Al Khuwair 33. Contact 94057023

Spacious 2BR flat in MBD. Contact 99713489

2BHK /3BHK apartment available at Qurum, near PDO Gate-2.

Contact 94057023 2 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ AZAIBA, 2 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ Al Khuwair 33, 1 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ Al Khuwair, 3 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ Al Khuwair 25. 5 B/R Fully Furnished villa @ Madinat Al Ilam. For Daily, Weekly, monthly or Yearly contract. Contact: Atlas Real Estate & Rent A Car LLC 99249069 / 99436312/92888376, Email: info@alshahiintl.com

2BHK at Honda road Ruwi.

Contact 99224748 / 99332297 New Building in Mutrah, 2 B/D room Flat + Setting Room,3 Baths+ Kitchen with split unit Ac’s. Behind Khimiji’s main office/opposite to Oman House Call 99419712 Villa sharing rooms at Al Khuwair.

Contact 94638876 Commercial Villa in Al Khuwair with Private Parking’s,7 Rooms Hall and Reception and Kitchen Contact 95202430

2 Bedroom flats at prime location of Azaiba Contact: 92197959 New building near the Bousher Al Misfah high way, with showroom, offices, and shops. Great for banks, medical clinics and companies 95202430 Shop in Wadi Kabir & Azaiba.

Contact 99024730 House for rent in Al Amerat Madinat Al Nahda consists of 3 bedrooms and 3 toilet & 2 Majlis away from school one kilometer. Contact 99351337 2 bedrooms flat with hall, 2 bathrooms in Darsait near Muscat Municipality. Contact 92584715 / 24700120 2BHK Wadi Kabeer R.O 325/- & 300/-. Contact 92144045 2BHK & 3BHK in Al Khuwair.

Contact 99024730 2 rooms attached bathroom with kitchen South Mabellah.

Contact 94090550 Room for rent for family or working lady at Mabella Sanaya.

Contact 94330490 Flat 4 rent south Al Mabelah.

Contact 95331177 / 95230355 2BHK Al Khuwair 350/- .

Contact 92144045

2BHK with split AC in W.K behind Sana Fashion. Contact 96708000 2BHK in Al Ghubra near Indian School. Contact 96708000 2 bedroom flat in Al Ghubra near Oman oil 18 November Street. OMR 330. Monthly. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Big flat first floor in villa Al Ghoubrah South, 3BHK hall living room with split a/c family only 525/- R.O. Contact 92479515 Foklift 7,5,3 Ton with driver – 99424338 200 Sqr mtrs office for Rent in CBD. Contact 99792181 1, 2 & 3 BHK in Al Khuwair.

Contact 99792181 2 BHK flat in Azaiba.

Contact 99792181 Store or Labour camp in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 99792181 Villa Bosher behind Dolfeen near Muscat Hospital 5BHK hall living room with split a/c for family only 650/- R.O . Contact 92479515 New flat Al Athaiba behind Al Meera market, 4BHK hall, Kitchen, 5 bathrooms for family only first floor villa 550/-R.O .Contact 92479515 1BHK with A/C Ghubra R.O 275/-.

Contact 92144045

Villas & flats. Contact 92144045

Available furnished Office in Al-Khuwair near Centerpoint.

Contact 92870771

Brand new deluxe flats located near Seeb flyover on the right band side of the main road coming from the Seeb palace round about, 2 bedrooms family, hall, kitchen, 3 toilets with split unit ACs. Contact 97755586

2Bedroom centrally Air conditioned flat at CBD. Contact 94460790 / 24714625

Deluxe 1 bedroom flat, ideal for office / residence at Qurum near PDO. Contact: 97721313 / 95070421

3BHK Wattaya. Contact 92144045

Flat at Darsait. Contact 99326879 Villa for rent with 4 bedroom at Al Khodh, Rent 750/-RO.#92888115 1 bedroom attached toilet in Al Khuwair bachelors/ family R.O 140/-. Contact 95154331 Independent rooms in Qurum / Al Hail. Contact 95529970 NEW WAREHOUSE For rent at Ghala Ind. Area. 578 & 1170 approx sqms Near Hotel Al-Madinah Holiday, Ghala. Container can enter. Immediate access to roads & highways.

Contact : 92078090 Commercial /Non - commercial double story villa for rent in Al Khuwair suitable for offices.

Contact 95526871 Bachelor villa at Ansab.

Contact 98458542 1BHK new bldg with A/C curtains near Khimji Mart MBD. Contact 99061408 / 99024039 Flats & shops for rent at MBD, Wadi Kabir, AL Khoud & villa at Azaiba.

Contact 93994401/02/03 Villa 2 bed rooms, hall, sitting room in AL Hail south R.O. 320/Monthly. Contact 93993354 1 Bed room in Al Hail south R. O 160/- Monthly. Contact 93993354 1BHK flats at Muttrah.

Contact 93231403 2 BHK Mumtaz. Contact 92144045 Room for rent Honda road. Contact 92540125/ 97605342/ 94053366 1 Bedroom attached toilet Al Khuwair area only for ladies or husband and wife without children. Contact 9:00 pm to 7:00 am 95765719

Industrial /commercial shops at Wadi Kabir 4 x 5.6 x 4.6 MTR height.

Showroom with mezzanine & office at Al Noor Street near Switz bakery & Al Masa hall corner building all on roads & parkings in front of shops & show room. # 99065900 or 99354975 Prim location, nice finishing villa for RENT. 2 big bedrooms . Main large sitting room. Small maid room. Kitchen and 3 bathrooms.

At Alkhuwair. near Holiday Inn & Oman Club. # 99426662, PDC only. For families & college girls.

85 SQM shops in Ruwi only on 350/- OMR. Contact – 95122188 / 96441499 Spacious 2 BHK flats in Ruwi MBD area only on 350/- OMR. Contact – 95122188 / 96441499 Flats shops and store for rent in Ruwi, Honda road, Rex Road. Contact 95902218/ 92433127 / 97293708 Industrial Land in Misfah.

Contact 93009999 Beautiful office space available in Ruwi MBD area only on 2/- OMR per sqm. Contact – 95122188 / 96441499 Deluxe 3 bedroom apartment for rent in Mumtaz area for more information. Contact 99336263 Furnished room available on Seeb share with small family for couple working ladies. Contact 96996938 3BR top class fitting flat ideal for top executives Mumtaz area, Ruwi.

Contact 91287824 Single room with A/C having separate entrance for non –cooking Indian Executive, near Rawasco, Al Khuwair rent 130/including (W& E). Contact 92888691/95397442/97201100

W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 1 8 , 2 0 1 5

D3

DAILY GUIDE

M.V. FOR SALE

Mazda 6, 2007 full options, Manual gear, excellent condition very low mileage, 76,000 km only, alloy wheels, accident free dealer maintained. Price 2,300 Only.

Contact 93642176

BUYING/SELLING Looking for purchase of Used Portable Compressor (350 CFM, 7 Bar Pressure) powered with Diesel run Generator.

Kindly Contact 99014686 or operation@khancogroup.com

WANTED

AVAILABLE Established Restaurant for rent with sponsorship. Contact 97628242

Clinic required, One Established new Clinic in Muscat, with Valid License & Clearance is required to purchase interested Parties can contact 91283188 or send your inquiries to mohamedsfarah@hotmail.com

FOR SALE

Flat Wadi AL Kabeer, 2BHK, sitting room, 3 bathroom balcony split /AC 300/- R.O Contact 99324402

3 floor building in Muttrah behind Police. Generating income of OMR 18 Thousand annually. Neat and well maintained. Built on 197 sq mtrs land. 2 tailor shops on ground floor and 6 flats. OMR 207 Thousand.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Window A/C. Contact 96441670 Readymade garment shop with furniture. Contact 99386170 Building material shop for sale in Al Hail. Contact 98003111 Shop at good location in Darsait.

Contact 98523634 Shop for sale near Al Hail petrol pump. Contact 93314300 / 93937185

Party & Wedding equipment rentals. Full line, from Tables, Linen & Skirting, Chairs & Chair covers, Cutlery, Crockery, Glassware, Chafing Dishes, Ice Sculptures, to Large Sound Systems and spectacular lighting. Call Andrea 9606 2222 for Catering and Croyden 9623 5555 for Sound & Light. www.tunesoman. com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com

FOR RENT

FOR SALE

Ready mix concrete for sale.

Contact 99054673

FOR SALE Restaurant for sale well running with open area and good parking area. 3 new clearance also in Wadi Kabeer near Mars hyper market.

Contact 99656863 Commercial registration with excellent name Grade A for business software for sale.

Contact 92959251 23,886 Sq Mtrs Agriculture land with water well in Al Salwa, Barka.

OMR 260 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

22KV Generator – 99424338 New barber shop on sale at Misfah.

Contact 93833107

Nissan Sunny 2012 model 71000 km, automatic, 1600cc white, price R.O 2750/-. Contact 98523634

Isuzu 3.5 ton truck model 2013 MK done 20000 REG with full insurance valid up to 18.11.2015. Serious buyers only Contact 99332625 / 99312060

Mercedes 55CL –AMG -200, black -124,000/- kms, valid 23/9/2015, excellent condition R.O 2, 800. Contact 94056332

Porshe Cayenne – S- 2004 white 165,000 kms, valid 30/12/2015 very good condition R.O 4,750/-.

Contact 94056332

Lincoln – Navigator 4WD -1998silver and black – 200,000/- kms valid 25/12/2015, good condition R.O 1,600. Contact 94056332

ACC. AVAILABLE Spacious room with attached bath available for Executive bachelor in Ruwi near Al Maha Filling Station.

Contact 98290299

Villa Al Khuwair, 8 bedroom, 7 bathroom, 3kittchen. 950/-. # 99358589/ 5121126/95570288 Flat Wadi AL Kabeer, 2BHK, sitting room, 3 bathroom balcony split /AC 300/- R.O Contact 99324402

Furnished room with bath at Al Khuwair. Contact 99224185

1B/R available for bachelors in REX ROAD, Ruwi. Contact 99889590

Furnished room for small family / EXE. Bachelor at Rex Road (Kannada, Telugu, Tamil). Contact 92873832

Gubrah furnished room, attached bath dish TV, WIFI, kitchen available for Executive single person, couple.

Contact 99658689

Dental clinic for sale in Seeb area.

Contact 96903341

Shop for sale Honda road.

Contact 94053366 / 97605342

Shop for sale near Al Maha Hotel Ghubra, area 68.40 sqm with 2 shutters, single shop also available.

Contact 96642007 / 98867936

Land for sale residential commercial and residential and tourist and industrial, and hotels for sale in Muscat (Al Khuwair and the Qurum, and crushed stone, and Bowshar, and spite and Gala heights, and the heights of the airport) to deal with the buyer. Contact 99070093

2 Prime Movers Man 2008 with 40 ton petrol tank each working at the moment in Al Maha. Price OMR 35 Thousand each. Tel: 97000155 or 92688692

Single room available with A/C for non cooking executive bachelor at Hamriya R/abt. (on main road side, Opp. Apollo Hospital).

Contact: 91673718, 98232567

Dental Clinic with license for sale in Sohar. Contact 92816015

Sharing family accommodation in Wadi Kabir. Contact 99335057

Coffee shop for sale a well running coffee shop for at Wadi Kabir Sanaya.

Contact 94159356/91039293

Shop for sale at Ruwi.

Contact 99103077

Room for SRI LANKAN Executive at Al Khuwair.TEL 96536307

Villas & flats at Ansab.

Contact 98458542 2BHK flat Al Khuwair with split A/C. 350/- Contact 95121126/99358589/97079146

2 Prime Movers Man 2008 with 40 ton petrol tank each working at the moment in Al Maha. Price OMR 35 Thousand each. Tel: 97000155 or 92688692

If require flats for rent in Wadi Kabir please send messages through Whatsapp or call – 99376454

23,886 Sq Mtrs Agriculture land with water well in Al Salwa, Barka.

OMR 260 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

Flats/villas owned by ROP pension fund available for rent in Muscat.

Contact 99349526

New Panasonic 500 Ansi lumens dip projector pt –D 5000.

Contact: Hari 92138468

Well furnished with net and phone connection ready to occupy office in prime location in AlGhubra South on Sultan Qaboos Road, kindly contact 93441134 Food counter for sale new bainmary with glass cover suitable for food Court and restaurant 2 pcs.

Contact 99656863 5 Flats of 1 bedroom for Sale in Boushar: OMR 35 Thousand each.

Monthly income OMR 270 Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

ACC. WANTED Wanted a 2 bedroom flat in around Ruwi area. Gsm 99761216 Single room behind main Indian School Wadi Kabir. Contact 99376454

Furnished room for Executive bachelor at Ruwi. Contact 92435784 Room, hall, kitchen toilet in South Mabela RO 140/-. Contact 98869198

Fully furnished office 46 sqr mtrs near Markaz Al Bahja.

Contact 99607788

Building Material shop for sale at Suwaiq A running 5 shutter building material shop with two paint machines available for immediate sale. Also available warehouse and yard at the same place. Interested parties please contact the following numbers: 93223382 / 99874936

Sharing Executive bachelor at Wadi Kabir. Contact 97940331

Single room attached bathroom with kitchen near Riyam park Muscat RO 70/-. Contact 95094028

Family sharing accommodation available in Al Khodh.

Contact 98292798 Sharing accommodation available in Muttrah near Khimji Mart for family only with A/C & attached bath room. Contact 95450743

Flats and shops. Contact 93009999 1000 sq mtrs industrial land for rent in Ghala suitable for Ware house workshop.

Contact 24700120 / 925

Toyota Camry white 2011 km -51000 R.O 4800/-.# 99561562

Mercedes 500 S 2001- dark blue -250,000 kms valid 30/12/2015 good condition R.O 1,900/-.

Contact 94056332

Expat leaving. Treadmill/gym items/Fridge/Washing machine/ Sofa(4 set)/wardrobe (4 door)/4burner stove/grill/ AC(window) other items for immediate sale. 95293535

3 floor building in Muttrah behind Police. Generating income of OMR 18 Thousand annually. Neat and well maintained. Built on 197 sq mtrs land. 2 tailor shops on ground floor and 6 flats. OMR 207 Thousand.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

Dodge Nitro 4.0 ltr engine 2007 model 130000 kms, red colour, registration valid for one year. RO.2700/-.

Contact - 91251966

Furnished M. bedroom with attached bathroom and (2 no) rooms with sharing bathroom n kitchen available from 1st April for E. bachelor in N Azaiba area behind Muscat Bakery, with sea view.

Contact -95450250

Single room attached bathroom separate entrance near Rex Road Kolivada . Contact 99870317 / 98218453

Furnished Room with attached bath for Indian Bachelor in Al Falaj area Ruwi & sharing room lady in Wadikabir. Call 95941515

Acc. available bachelor separate bathroom sharing, kitchen R.O 60/near Oman house. Contact 98796982

Room for executive bachelors (no Kitchen) including W/E. 125 RO. Contact 98949724

Room in CBD area for non cooking Executive bachelors free WIFI, Advance deposit. Contact 95934642

LOST Uddin Riaz has lost Bangladeshi Passport No. AC 9582415. Finder please handover to ROP. Mohammed Naser Mohammed has lost Bangladeshi Passport No. C 1623842.

Finder please handover to ROP

NOTICE Abraj Qatar Trading & Contracting Company which is recorded under the commercial register in directorate general for trade industry number 1152392 is going to change its name to North Batinah Trad & Towtrs Solidarity company . This is to inform anybody who concerns about that.

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

D4

W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 1 8 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED

SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Part Time Accounting, Accounts Finalization, Audit Preparation, Internal Audit, Onsite Tally Training, Inventory Management Contact : 96975454, email : ibfcoman@hotmail.com Accountant 35 years B.COM with experience in Oman urgently seeking suitable job Accountant/ Ass. Admin / HR valid driving license & NOC. Contact + 968- 99176112 Email : aamirjaved24@hotmail.com Indian Accounts / Audit assistant with 2 years of experience currently on a visit visa looking for suitable job openings.

Contact: 94677338, 97041086 Email: ajeeshkcy1989@gmail.com

SECRETARIAL / OFFICE Qualified personal Secretary required to work in a private firm.

Please send your resume to majancom@omantel.net.om Wanted for immediate appointment : Male Secretary, HR Personnel with minimum 5 yrs experience for all posts. Apply with bio data to hr_oman1@yahoo.com immediately

ARCHITECTURE

DRIVER TRAVEL/TOURS

Urgently required, Architect with knowledge of interior design.

Minimum 2-3 years experience.

Interested candidate may please send CV to fax: 24694998 Email: fareedadesign@gmail.com

ADVOCATE Law firm office at Shatti al Qurum looking for Indian legal advisor minimum 5 years experience in Oman . please Contact :99772277 sereen38@gmail.com

ADMIN Wanted PRO male Omani with 2-3 years experience and frontline associate male / female for reputed telecom brand retail stores. Apply to career@rechargeoman.om.

Contact 94006462 / 94538465

ACCOUNTANT Required an Accountant with experience in Tally, D/L in Oman, NOC, for a construction company doing MOE projects.

Contact 94148220. Send CV to alrkhadev@hotmail.com

BEAUTICIAN Required female to work in beauty center at Al Azaiba.

Contact 94470321

CATERING Required a Bakery man for a catering company to be posted in interior site. Apply with NOC. #95332694, Email : ccs_oman@yahoo.com Personal Chef needed for work in home and boat. Must be fantastic chef and willing to do housekeeping/ cleaning also. email cv: alibadawy@gmail.com Chef / cook (Muslim) required with at least 3 years experience. Experience in cooking (Arab European and Indian). Please send your CV to email address info@albatnapp.com Contact 99202531 Experience cook for Omani family 1Nos. Contact 99228046 Email: oman518@gmail.com Shawarma /BBQ/Tandoor /helper wanted. Contact 95529970 Required urgently Yemani Cook.

Contact 99443236 muscat@oigoman.com

DOMESTIC HELPER Full-time housemaid needed for family of 4 in Azaiba.

Contact 95123244 Housemaid required for Keralite family Cont 92729883 Wanted full time Keralite housemaid at Al Khuwair.

Contact 93267065

Wanted one light driver. Indians only should apply.

Contact 95451713

Wanted an experienced person in reservations and ticketing using airlines Sabre system for a new travel agency; please send your CV to sunairways1@gmail.com

EDUCATION Maths, Physics, Chemistry Teacher urgently required to teach 2 students of 12th standard . Teacher’s experience preferred.

Contact 99360489

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE

ENGI./ELECT./TECH..

ACCA-UK +2.5 years of experience in Accounts, Bookeeping and Audit.

Looking for job in Accounts /Finance /Internal Audit. Also worked on Oracle R12, Tally, Quick Books and PeachTree. Gsm: +968-95459488 Email: mr.shoaibaslam@gmail.com

Required HVAC Engineer, and Electrical Engineer, minimum 4 to 5 years experience with driving license. Send CV to nationalhvac.mep@gmail.com fax: 24799442 Looking for Assistant Workshop Manager, Automobile Engineering with minimum 4 years experience in vehicle modification works.

Contact: 97441935 Local Construction Company looking for Civil Engineer Indian nationality. If interested Email: mohad.amer@hotmail.com or Contact 92817182 Wanted Auto Electrician with ITI or diploma qualification. Interested can send C.V on hilat.tech@gmail.com or contact 98983951 / 98668697 Required MEP Engineer with minimum Diploma or degree 5 yrs experience & with driving license.

Fax : 24478522, Email : gh1.careers@gmail.com A well reputed Steel fabrication & machining workshop company in Oman requires following urgently: Machinist 5 years experience in milling, turning & surface grinding 2 Nos. Contact 99228046 Email: oman518@gmail.com Wanted Mechanical Engineers with min. 5 yrs experience. Apply with bio data to hr_oman1@yahoo. com, immediately.

MEDICAL Wanted labs Technician to work in a polyclinic. Candidates who have passed their prometric examination can also apply. Attractive salary offered. Contact 91173571 Wanted female Nurse for Skin clinic in Muscat. Must have MOH license and NOC. Mail to clinicvacancy2015@gmail.com Required Nurse for a reputed clinic in Suwaiq. Contact 26861077 / 99605906 / 92801446 Require GP doctors and Staff Nurse for a medical centre in Mabela. Contact 95200180, amanammc@gmail.com Urgently required an Orthodontist with MOH to work at a reputed Dental Center in Muscat.

Contact 968 99694723, Email : dr.bdohc@gmail.com Urgently required Pharmacist.

Contact 94200385/ 95206905/ 97433142 Email: anitho@gmail.com

Sales Man required with driving license knowledge of air conditioner and spare parts. Send CV to nationalhvac.mep@gmail.com fax: 24799442 Required M/F Marketing person part time exp in event management with strong communication read / write and knowledge of music & dance industry for an Institute.

Mail: window4job@gmail.com Required Commercial Assistant having minimum 3-5 years of FMCG experience for a leading FMCG company in Muscat. Having Omani driving license is preferred. Interested candidates may send their resume at sunnex3@gmail.com Looking for Experienced Omani/ Expat Sales Executive for Web Application Sales.

Email mctjobs@gmail.com Required delegates female Marketers in Advertising. Car & experience are required. To contact only the afternoon time on - 94021722 Required promoter for promoting Perfumes in shopping centre please.

Contact 95663682 or send CV atugt15@gmail.com

Accountant: a well experienced Indian male, M.Com, more than 20 years experience in accounting field (GCC & India), looking for job as accountant or accounts manager in oman. presently working in India and ready to join immediately.

Contact :99087175 C.A with 11 yrs experience (6 years in Oman) as Finance Manager. Contact 93731296

Looking for part time accounts job please contact:95573856 & 99183135.

MBA finance graduate Indian male on visit visa one year’s internship experience in financing/marketing looking suitable marketing /finance position. Contact 95394938 Email: safeer.buzz@gmail.com

Wanted experienced Sales Executive for FMCG with valid Omani driving license. Contact 98099914 wasim@alliusie.com

Accountant / Accounts Assistant with 7 years experience in Indian accounts like taxation, finalization of balance sheet, good knowledge in Tally ERP9 & MS Office, Currently on visit visa looking for immediate joining. Contact 94362799

Wanted Salesman with driving licence and car. Gsm : 98805474 or email id: jobssales2015@gmail.com

Wanted Sales or Marketing Executive degree or master degree.

Interested can send C.V on hilat.tech@gmail.com or contact 98983951 / 98668697

Indian male BBM 23 yrs having 2 yrs experience seeking suitable job in accounts, admin, HR, Operation Coordination logistics etc.

Contact 97623267

Required Kitchen Designer – Outdoor Sales Consultant :Qualified candidates must have a work experience of min 5 years in Oman with a valid omani driving license. Interested Candidates please send in your CV’s to amritharajeev345@gmail.com

Wanted LAB Technician and female Nurse for a 25 years old poly clinic at Ibri candidates who have passed their prometric examination can also apply.

Contact 93828382 Email: zahrathalmahrami@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING

Accountant 25 years experience M.Com Accounts up to finalization 14 years in Oman. NOC release available. Contact 99640490 email: mathutb@gmail.com

Indian male 32 years M.B.A, 5 years experience as Accountant in Qatar and 3 years experience in Marketing and Purchase department valid Qatar license is advantage, seeking suitable placement.

Contact 93011814 Mail: shajusr@yahoo.com

SALES / MARKETING

Urgently required a female nurse with MOH license to work permanent or leave vacancy for a reputed clinic.

Salary Negotiable. Contact 94618483

22 years of experience in Multinational Companies & reputed firms in Financial Management, Project Management, Budgeting and Cost control, seeking a strategic Financial/Management Accounting role in a dynamic organization . # +971-506178139, Email.georg_vargis01@yahoo.com

ACCA-UK, B.Sc (OBU-UK) having 2.8 years of experience in Accounts, Bookeeping and Audit. Looking for job in Accounts/Finance department. Also worked on Oracle R12, Tally, Quick Books and PeachTree.

Email: AliRiazMughal@Outlook. com, Gsm: +968-95459936

MEDICAL

Urgently require for the Polyclinic in Sur. positions, General practitioner, (GP) Pediatrician, Gynecologist, Orthopedics, Physiotherapist, Lab technician, with MOH license, or without license. ContactGSM, 968 99567864 mail: alrawdahpolyclinic@gmail.com

ACCA finalist and BSc from Oxford Brookes University UK, having 18 months working experience, currently in Muscat on visit, seeking immediate and suitable position.

Contact : 95375282

Sales Executives needed for marble & granite company with minimum one year experience with driving license. Good looking Indians only.

Email: anas@kenzostone.com / nabil@kenzostone.com Salesman Wanted for outdoor sales of ceramic items and building materials. Should have similar 2 years experience, driving license and NOC. Call 99332547 Required Salesman, Tailor, and Barber. Contact 96964767 Looking for Qualified and experienced Sales Executives in industrial and mechanical field items & building materials. Please send your CV to slayhawk@yahoo.com Oil marketing and trading company require Sales Executives. The desire candidate should have Oman driving license, with Oman experience and required on urgent basis for oil company. Please post the CV on fakhare@gmail.com Office no 00968-24467177 Urgently required an excellent grade construction firm based in Muscat has immediate vacancy for Marketing Executive minimum 5 years experience with D/L. Email your CV to info@omannc.com Marketing Executive for printing press, minimum 2 years experience with D/L. Email: arshedkm@gmail.com

SECRETARIAL / OFFICE Required female Office Secretary with well computer knowledge.

Send CV to nationalhvac.mep@ gmail.com fax: 24799442

Part time Accountant up to finalization looking for job after 5 pm location Qurum Al Khoudh.

Contact 92917574

Accountant Indian male B.COM / MBA 9 years experience in Oman up to finalization. NOC available, can join immediately.

Contact 94134085/ muscatoman95@yahoo.com CA with 8 years Experience (6 in UAE & Oman) in A/cs ,Finance & Audit ,Contact: :98707434 / casmart007@gmail.com SL Accountant male 5 years experience in Oman up to account finalization, accounting software’s tally etc having Oman driving license & NOC. Contact 95764075 Email: arshaad18@gmail.com Accountant: Indian Male 29 years, 7 years experience in Oman seeking suitable placement in Accounts, Administration, Purchase (Release Available) Ph. 97614351 Email:vijayapalanbinu.aniyan@ gmail.com Indian male 35 years M.Com, 8 years in Oman out of 13 years experience in accounts up to finalization having NOC and Oman D/L. Contact 98407501 Seeking for a job on Indian male aged 23 years qualification are BCA bachelor & computer application & accountant 1 years experience.

Contact 95386434 Email: mohammedshanid5@gmail.com Indian female, 23 years B.Com Graduate having 2 years experience has accounts + office assistance , good working knowledge in tally, MS Office, SAP. Contact 97669156

Accounts part time works up to finalization, monthly report, balance sheet and finalization works.

Contact 96247295 Accountant male 25 CA finalist from Pakistan having 4 years experience looking for suitable position in accounts /audit currently on visit visa. Contact 98845617 Email: usmanmaqsood.ca@gmail.com CA Finalist having big four experience of more than three years seeking suitable position currently on visit visa. Contact 94663269 Email: rizwan_ravian@yahoo.com Indian female 28 MBA (HR) B. Sc, 3+ years exp India & Oman HR/Admin looking for suitable placement.

Contact 95619537 Finance Manager, CPA, with more than 15 yrs. of experience in GCC. Fully knowledgeable in Finance, General & Management Accounting .

NOC available. Contact 96209331 Indian male, B.COM, currently in Oman on Visit Visa, Urgent seeking suitable Job Accountant / Administrative/ HR dept. have 6y. UAE experience, Valid Driving License, Knowledge of Internet ,Tally ERP9, Microsoft Office. MS EXCEL, immediately available.

Contact +968-92718733 , Email : sahashankar@gmail.com B.com doing CA Accounts/ office job male now working in Oman Noc, release available. Contact 92715465 Email: alsabathehm@gmail.com Part time Accountant with 15 years exp in Accounts, finance, audit tax management. Contact 95857199 Indian female B.com CA Inter 3 years internship completed 2 years accounting experience currently on visit visa seeking for suitable job . Contact 94682798/95736496 Email: giby2605@gmail.com

W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 1 8 , 2 0 1 5

D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE

ENGG. / TECHNICAL

Male, total 17 years experience in India & Oman - India - 9 years & Oman - 8 years In the field of procurement, material controller and accountancy - Local release available (Noc) Cont no. 91680124 , 98606546

Seeking job Electronics and Instrumentation Engineer (Indian) Indian male, Instrumentation Engineer having total 5 years of experience in electrical site execution, 1 year in Uae,presently in oman (visit visa) seeking suitable job Contact. 95690915 Email. Syam.andrews@gmail.Com

India Accountant: Male, M com, 7 Yrs experience in Accounts up to finalization, having knowledge of ERP, Tally, seeks suitable placement. Contact:93950138 Email: lijinrajan123@gmail.com B.Com India. Languages : English, Hindi & Malayalam.

Contact 92954613 Indian male 22 yrs B. Com Graduate 1 year exp in Accounts, currently on visit visa. Looking for suitable job.

Contact – 94341848 / Email – mohdhaji7272@gmail.com Indian M.Com Finance exp 1 year now in visiting visa.

Contact 96970734 Pakistani male, 25 yrs, MBA Finance, 1.6 yrs exp in Accounts seeking placement in Accounts, Administration or Business Management. Contact 92651927 / 94250149 Indian male 26 years, with 4 years experience in accounts and administration looking for suitable placement. Contact 93008891 Indian male, B.Com, Accountant – 6yrs exp in Oman, NOC availableReady to join.contact: 98162671 ; email: prasanths3@gmail.com Indian Male, 25 yrs currently in Oman on visit looking for suitable vacancies in accounts, B.Com completed 1 yr experience.

Contact 92024380 Female with MBA finance, financial and tax professional four and half years of experience seeks suitable opportunities in reputed organizations. Contact- 99792457 Email: msparveen1@gmail.com Indian Male, MBA 2 yrs experience in Accounts, Admin & HR on visit visa. Contact 92045306 Accounting up to finalization, auditing & contact for tally ERP software Contact– 91720465 Indian male, 32 years, M. Com. 7 out of 9 years experience in Oman in Accounts/finance. Having NOC and valid Oman D/L. Contact 98277143, Email: anzarks@gmail.com

ADVERTISING Indian Male, 28 years, have Omani driving license. NOC available, seeks job. Phone: 96245690

ADMIN/HR Indian female with excellent communication skills, confident, dedicated to work and enthusiastic.

Knowledge about ms office. Has 6 years of experience in customer service, telecommunication, HR.Looking for immediate placement. Contact # 97348819

Over 14 years of Gulf experience in Admin /HR /Logistics, fluent in Arabic & English with D/L, looking for suitable position. Contact 95824598 Indian male, well experienced in Administration supervisory, business development, front office Administrations & good computer skills seeking Supervisory / Secretarial / Front Office Administrative jobs.

Contact 92145973 Email: ubaidpt99@yahoo.com Indian male having 2+ years Oman experience seeking suitable job opportunity...currently working as HR coordinator in a reputed company in Oman. Contact : 93671437 alluarun777@gmail.com Noc available MBA in Marketing and HR seeking suitable jobs. Contact 91250149 Email: hameem.husain@gmail.com Indian female MBA (HR) with Good computer proficiency and 3 years of experience. Holding Oman Driving License. Contact:-93554207 humanresourceoman@gmail.com Wanted job as Administrative, Assistant, Supervisor 10 yrs exp.

Contact 99014612

Indian female B.Com with excellent communication available for immediate joining full time or part time in HR & Admin coordination. #98460262

Indian male, Autocad draughtman with 2 years of experience currently working in oman.seeking suitable placement.NOC available.

Contact: 94123480 Email: fahadhundred@gmail.com

Young Indian male with 5 years Muscat experience in admin, purchase & Masters from UK seeks placement. Possess driving license.

Contact 94400671

Female Architect 3.5 years experience looking for job, having experience in Oman AutoCAD and sketch up. Contact 96146645 Email: anjuovil@gmail.com

Indian male MBA 32 yrs having 10 yrs of exp seeking suitable placement in Admin/ HR/ Operations/ Coordination/ Logistics etc. Holding valid Oman D/L .Contact - 99054786

BEAUTICIAN Beautician gulf exp (overseas) looking job. Contact 95175192

CATERING Arabic conti Indian B.B.Q salads Gulf experience 10 years looking for good opportunity. NOC available. Contact 97004585 / 95451027 Indian cook, Tandoori cook, male, 32 yrs, having 4 yrs of experience in Muscat in India, looking for a cook job in Hotel. Contact 93753523 / 98744307 / 92175119.

Auotcad knows 3D,REVIT, MAX Ph : 97103168

DESIGNER AutoCAD operator, Indian male 3 yrs experience in Auto CAD 2D & 3Ds Civil Draftsman, MAX and Photo shop, presently on visit visa seek suitable placement.

Contact 91764358 Email: mohdsiraj02@yahoo.com

Light driver with car available.

Contact 95520696

Light driver. Contact 91376612

Indian male, 27 yrs, MBA having 3 yrs. experience in advertising company and have through knowledge in office Co-ordination& administration, good computer proficiency on visit visa looking for suitable placement. Contact 91361534 sreejith. mv63@gmail.com

Autocad D/man, Civil Engg Diploma 3 yrs, Gulf exp in architectural, structural, interior, security systems, knows 3d , NOC available.

Contact 98225740

Light Driver having own visa looking for job as driver.

Contact 92303692

Indian male 32 yrs MBA.HR marketing, 6 yrs experience in FMGC products looking for a suitable job.

Contact 92954827

ARCHI./ DRAUGHTSMAN

Architect (B. Arch) 3 years experience in 2D/3D CAD and construction detailing for design consultancies seeking suitable position in reputed firm. Contact 99083386 Email: nitish.nadaraajan@gmail.com

DRIVER

Light driver with car 7 yrs experience. Contact 91553628 / 95667138

MBA Admin CRM exp female Indian.

Contact 92135280

Indian male, 1 and half years experience in Indian, Using Total station, Auto level and Auto Cad , seeking suitable placement. Contact 95140761 / 99208290 Email: binu.brijiv@gmail.com

Keralite Bachelor professional building designer with AutoCAD, 3D Max & Accounts.

Contact 96535497, email : bhaviwky90@gmail.com

Indian female 6 years experience in finance HR/ & Administration (M.Com) with Oman D/L or family joining visa. Contact 99796847 Email: rabitha.05@gmail.com

Indian male- B.Com/B.Ed/15 years Exp – 5 in Oman, seeks job in Accts/Sales/Logistics have NOC and Oman D/L with car. Contact – 92919625/93511425/ 93424828; Email- seshadricpioman@gmail.com

Indian male AutoCAD, 3ds Max , 5 years of experience here on visiting visa looking for a job.

Contact 98360268 / 99881264

DESIGNER

Modular kitchen designer with 4 years Bahrain /Dubai experience plus 10 years AutoCAD, 3D, Photoshop& 20-20 Fusion.

Contact +968-96467673, cristobabu@gmail.com

Light driver 8 years experience in Oman. Contact 95927422

Light & heavy duty driver JCB, Shovel operator valid GCC license Indian Pakistani looking for job.

Contact 95175192 Light duty driver with 3 years experience in Oman +5 years in Saudi Arabia speaking Hindi Arabic English. Contact 96088707 Light driver job. Contact 96756014 Light driver looking for job.

Contact 92791678 Light driver looking for job.

Contact 91376612 LV Driver- 2 yrs Exp-know English- Contact 95292064

ENGG. / TECHNICAL BE Petroleum Engineer - 23 years, 1 year exp (6 months offshore), previously done 2 onfield internships in Oman. Seeking suitable placement.

Valid HSE PDO passport and Oman driving license holder. Contact: 97384353, wnehri@gmail.com BSc Civil Engineer over 19 years experience in construction field with project management skills, seeks suitable placement NOC available & can join immediately.

Kindly Contact: 92198264 Email: mdrana1970@gmail.com Looking Part time Job in HVACContact - 93198128 Quantity Surveyor (Civil Building) looking for Part time job Contact no:-94391712 E-mail addressinayathhussain@yahoo.com Civil Engineer having 4.5 yrs experience in building construction, looking for suitable placement valid D/L available. Contact 91253392 D.A.E Civil Engineer Pakistani male, Diploma 3 years full experience 10 years, 6 yrs exp in Oman & Pakistan exp 4 years looking for good job in firm. Contact 92286164 Electrical Engineer looking for job NOC available. Contact 96347995 B/Tech B.E Civil nearly 3 years Indian male. Contact 93850875 Indian Male 10 years experienced CIVIL ENGINEER having Omani driving license looking for suitable placement. GSM 94194399 (Shiblyrock@gmail.com) Indian Female, 24, UK Graduate - MSc Digital Communication Network Engineering with B.Tech Electronics and Communication holding a Valid Omani Driving License, looking for suitable placement (Presently on Visit Visa).

Contact No. : 95408113 Civil Engineer Diploma and AutoCAD having 2 yrs experience in India seeking suitable jobs.

Contact 95476430 Civil Engineer having four and half years experience in building construction, looking for a suitable placement valid D/L available.

Contact 91253392 Store In Charge: Indian male having 6 years experience in Oman seeking suitable position, Now in India Contact: 93211256, India:+91-76114979, krishnamohanap2000@gmail.com

ENGG. / TECHNICAL Indian male, having 10 yrs experience in CCTV (AV Technician), fire alarm, EPABX, all types of electrical work seeking suitable placement, presently on visit visa. Contact 97948198 / 99356393 Email: srinivasparipelli@yahoo.com Elet.Engr 9+ yrs exp Noc available can join immediately.

Contact 99148940 Email: jobluk.om@gmail.com Civil Engineer B Tech, Site Engineer Experienced, Drafting on Visit Visa Ph : 91642050 Quality Assurance Design, BTech Elec, MBA (TQM) , IT Infrastructure(WLAN , TETRA) Security systems(CCTV AACS),Project control Engineering, Document Control / CAD Managing /Change management, Exp in Major projects, NOC available Ph : 99506977 Indian Mechanical Engineer 27 years experience in Oman for 8 years with Omani driving license looking for job change. NOC available. Contact 92986079 for short and long term contracts. Area of experience oil and GAS. Contact 92986079 Electrical Engg B.E 6+ yrs in Oman exp in ELP projects, LV , 11KV, 33KVOHL , UGC & DCRP requirements available with release/NOC valid D/L join immediately. Contact: 97601836 Email: sidm4u@gmail.com Elet Engr (13+yrs exp.) Diploma presently working as Site Engr HV & LV OHL, U/G having NOC & valid Oman D/L . Contact 96274568 / 95129698 Indian- B.E Mechanical with MBA, 25 years experience last 12 years in Oil & Gas Sector in Oman. Skilled in Business Development, Sales & Marketing looking opening in oil gas trading or drilling or service companies as General manager/ country manager/ Business Development Manager. Contact -94688594 gmbdm2015oilandgas@gmail.com

Indian male 24 years, Mechanical Engineer,pdms.1 yr experience in pipeline,16years in oman seeking immediate placement Contact 95775742 Diploma in Architect 2.5 years experience in Oman having driving.

Contact 92967404 Electrical Engineer B.E Engineer, 6 years experience in Dubai, Bahrain with G.C.C. professional licenses holding GCC driving license.

Contact 98063081 Email: imran.engr08@gmail.com .

Civil Engineer 4 years exp (3 in Oman as a Quantity Surveyor & planning engineer for road works & bridges in a big project) fluent in English & Arabic.

Contact - 93477660 B.Tech electronics & instrument, Indian male having 4 years exp in oil & gas field one years experience in Saudi, looking for suitable vacancy.

Contact 98854946 Email: alfredtjose@gmail.com Experienced female Electrical Engineer. Contact 93800906 Civil Engineer with 12 years Experience Looking For Job. Contact 98162295 Generator maintenance in charge with 4 yrs experience with Cummins, caterpillar, kirloskar and voltas. Contact - email: shibinmundakkal@gmail.com Indian Male, IT Support Engineer, 2 yrs in Oman & 5 yrs Indian experience. Contact 97311847 Aircraft Maintenance Technician with one year experience seeks suitable placement. Contact amaljohn2002@gmail.com Project Engineer, civil engineer BSC, Building Construction 5 Years Exp in Oman fluent Arabic, English and good Hindi .Contact - 97858589

Indian B.Tech Mechanical Engineer, 26 yrs, 4 yrs experience in HVAC/MEP. Contact 94669629, rajeevhpd15@yahoo.com

B.Tech Mechanical Engineer (Automobile)&Diploma in QC with 2yrs experience in oil & gas company seek suitable placement job currently on Visit Visa. Contact no.96071081, 99214308 , Email: rahulvarikkat@gmail.com

25 years old Indian male BE in Electronics and Communication / NEBOSH presently working as Safety Officer in reputed company in India looking for suitable placement.

Contact India: 0091- 9605114343 Email: harishharinarayan@gmail.com

BE/EEE Electrical Engineer Indian male 25 years having 2.5 years experience currently on visit visa looking for suitable placement.

Contact 00968-96522624 / 92770316 contact India +91- 9994024477 / 9597539520

Indian male, 24 years, BE Computers Science & Engn, worked as Network Engn/Network Analysis, well versed with CISCO devices. Smart, confident and good English command, ready to join ASAP, available on Contact 99797616 / 94208353 Email: abrar_met@hotmail.com

Electrical Engineer Indian male 29 years, having 5 years of experience in Industrial Automation & utility maintenance in India (MRF Tyres) seeking suitable placement. #92789995 Email: akhilabrahamlktr@gmail.com

Sudanese Electrical plants equipment Engineer with 3 years Diploma degree of Electrical Engineer have 5 years experience in building constructing industry operation installation maintenance asphalt crushers stone plants and automation systems. Contact 94549609 B. Sc Civil Engineer with 5 years experience and valid Omani driving license and PDO driving and safety license and OSHA safety license looking for suitable job.

Contact 92548097 Sudanese chemist resident, 3 years experience in chemical industry.

Contact 97399073 Sudanese Graduate with 3 years Diploma in Civil Engineering have 5 years experience in building construction industry materials, specification & testing.

Contact 96995670 B.Sc Electronics, Tech, C.C.T.V, Security System Saudi exp 2 years total 10 years exp now on visit visa Indian. Contact 97364750 Email: bijumonjk1@gmail.com Civil Engineer (Diploma) with exp. looking for placement.

Contact 95200650 Indian male Mechanical Piping Engineer (BE) Done NDT course fresher on visit visa looking for job.

Contact 97359171

Sudanese Mechanical Engineer 11 years exp in oil & gas industry.

Contact - 95928035 Telecom Engineer with 4.5 years Oman experience looking for a suitable opportunity, interested even in Marketing also. Possess valid Oman driving license. Contact 94145460

EDUCATION Indian Female (M.Com, B.ED) 2Yrs Experience in teaching seeks suitable placement . Specialization in ( Accounting, Business studies, Human resource management, Economics). Presently in Visit Visa Status. Contact:97342709, Email: sininair27@gmail.com 1 year experience in teaching all subject to KG classes, currently working as a teacher in Oman, seeking suitable placement, Family visa.

Contact 92178304 / 99036256

HOSPITALITY 27 yrs Indian male, Hospitality science, Graduate with New zealand business diploma having Oman experience in money exchange firm, looking for suitable opportunities in reputed organization.NOC available.

Contact.91383167 Indian female (Aviation and hospitality management) with excellent communication skill, confident, dedicated to works and enthusiastic and 1 year experience in admin department looking for immediate placement . #93351256 email : hinakhan.hk88@gamil.com

IT Omani citizen searching a job in the field of computer Especially in data base professional in operating oracle SQL , PL/ SQL , form6i , Report 6i .

Contact 96977368 Email: talaloml@yahoo.com Male Omani National, 27 years, holding Master in IT - Computer Sciences Engineering (India) and Master in Robotic Intelligency (Spain), looking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 99211549.

Indian male, 34 years having 10 yrs experience in information technology looking for openings as project manager/senior business analyst.

Contact 98383246, vishnu.cm@gmail.com 3G , 4G Welding lead man Indian male, 33 years, having 15 years experience in American company, UAE and India, seeking for suitable placement. Contact 92122468 Email: shaji11@gmail.com IT Support Engineer Indian male with 6 years experience in system Admin/ IT support seeking suitable placement. Contact 94549589 / 99817516 Indian male Graduate IT Engineer Hardware networking MCITP, CCNA RHCE 3 years of experience on visit visa seeking job. Contact 94647824 Email: azharpo@gmail.com Indian female IT professional (B.Tech) on visiting visa, 1.5 yrs experience in .Net, worked in MNC, seeks suitable positions.

Contact 94389666 IT Prof, MCA having 6+ yrs exp, seeks suitable position.

Contact 94543668 Hardware and Network Technician with 6 years experience one year in Oman, good experience in security systems and net work cabling looking for suitable placement..

Contact 96365220 Indian male MBA (marketing & IT) with 1 yr exp looking for suitable placement presently on visit visa.

Contact 97327997 Email: irshad.alimc@gmai.com

DAE (Civil) having 3.5 years Experience 2 years from Oman with driving licences, seeking for suitable position in Construction field NOC and release available . Contact 96968554 Email: mehranahmad26@yahoo.com

Indian male 25 B.Tech (IT) Engineer 2.5 yrs exp in hardware networking.

Currently on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact – 94359564

24 years Indian female diploma in computer science and engineering now on visit visa seek suitable placement. Contact 96314974/99107369

Hardware specialist B.Tech M.Tech electronics with 10 years experience seeks suitable opportunities in reputed organizations.

Contact 91289459 Email: shrn.shrf@gmail.com

Electrical Eng. Degree (MEP) need suitable job of construction 12 yrs exp.

Email: mohd.ateeq.khan@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer, Gulf Exp in Design and Manufacturing Ph: 97097688 Diploma of Associate Civil Engineering, Diploma of AutoCad, having 3.5 yrs experience, 2 yrs experience of Oman in Building Construction, valid transferrable ID Card.

Contact 94378581 Indian male, 26 yrs B-Tech (ECE) with MBA in Marketing / HR looking for a suitable placement. Currently on visit visa valid up to 30 January 2015. Contact 93754428, email : shijosirius709@gmail.com

B.Tech IT Professional, Indian Male with 3 yrs of Exp. In System Admin, IT Support, Networking, Installing Active Directory, DHCP, DNS,RAS, configuring maintaining and managing servers, configuring cisco routers, Exp in handling SQL database, With Valid Driving Licence. Contact - 968 98863507 MCA, MBA, CCNA, MCSE, Indian male with 10 years of experience, holding Oman driving license on visit visa seeks any suitable placement. Contact 92716116 / 91266535 Email: sijuayur@gmail.com Looking for job Tunisian Bachelor with experience 5 years in Network/IT. Cont.:91368102

D6

W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 1 8 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED MEDICAL

SECRETARIAL/OFFICE

Staff Nurse working in muscat.

Looking for new opportunity. Release / NOC letter available. #99433415

Indian male more than 10 years Gulf experience in Office / Sales Coordinator, Admin (employees visa processes), Secretarial and purchase coordination with good computer skills. Having Driving license and NOC available. Looking for suitable placement. Contact 99709336

Female Dentist Indian, 28 years Dental Surgeon, 3 years of experience, Oman prometric passed with 64%, looking for a suitable placement in Muscat region. Contact 91377681 Email: hashmisarwat@gmail.com Medical- Indian female, 27 yrs, masters in hospital administration, fellowship in HTA studied in a super specialty medical sciences and research center in India and done project in an established hospital in sultanate of Oman.

Contact 93200827, 91026506 Lab Technician, Civil (8yrs Gulf experience) looking for a suitable job (NOC available) Contact-93344378 Female pharmacist with 3 years experience and MOH license currently in Oman, CONTACT 92455124

MISCELLANEOUS Indian female 25, BFT with excellent communication skills, confident, dedicated to work and enthusiastic. 5 yrs experience in merchandising and fashion marketing. available on family visit, seeking for a suitable job. Contact 96990368, simmy.missy@gmail.com Helper, Electrician, Plumber, exp Gulf & India looking for job.

Contact 95175192 Logistics Officer, Experience in Store keeping. Contact : 99505934

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR Business Development Officer cum Branch Head, young Indian male, MBA, around 5 years experience in reputed multinational company (MNC) looking for suitable position in Suwaiq, Sohar area.Contact 92700670 Email: fardhaan@gmail.com Indian male M.Tech MBA, 24 years experience working as Country Manager seeks employment.

Contact 92279972, NOC available.

Purchase Manager with 14 years experience in construction industry with valid D/L & NOC .

Contact 92884811 Email: bati.rajesh@gmail.com Qualified Manager: (12+ yrs. Oman Exp.) Vast knowledge in A/c & Admin, Costing, Banking, Credit Control, Insurance, International Purchase/Logistics & Finance, With D/L looking for suitable position. Contact 93826090 Email: jskanchan01@gmail.com Restaurant /Catering Manager – Operations with 21 years experience with 2 years in Saudi is available on visit. Contact 98894682 Indian female with nine years of experience in 5 Star hotels as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager looking for a suitable placement in a reputed Star hotel. Contact: 91219787

SECRETARIAL/OFFICE Indian female with 10 yrs of experience in HR/Banking/Operations seeks a suitable placement. Can be contacted on 98919015 or sherianne.coelho@gmail.com Indian female, well experienced in secretarial, administration, customer care & supervisory jobs.

5 years experience in Muscat.

Immediately available for joining.

Contact: 92139298

SKILLED / UNSKILLED Welder, 3G, 6G, TIG, Exp in Fabrication , Gulf Exp Ph : 97103168 Care taker, Gulf Exp knows Hindi, Arabic Ph: 94238840

SALES / MARKETING 15 years experience Indian male looking for job in storekeeper, counter sales having valid GCC driving license seeks suitable placement.

Contact 99052817 Indian M.27 B.Com, 5 yrs exp sales & customer relation, MS Word, MS Office, Excel on visit visa.

Contact 95612321 Email: jkadavil@gmail.com MBA fresher, with fluency in English, Arabic, Hindi, Tamil and Malayalam, looking for suitable job.

Currently in Oman on visit visa.

Mob : +968-93730345 Indian male 30 years DME 4 years experience in building material outdoor sales, NOC available with valid Oman D/L. Contact 92447574 Email: shijophilip84@yahoo.in IND M 29 2 yrs exp in dales in Oman seeks suitable placement in back office support, sales, store keeper. NOC available. Contact 91797372 23 years Indian male commerce Graduate on visit seeks suitable placement - 2 years experience in sales /marketing. Contact 91278637 /Muzammil Indian male 23 with 2 years Oman experience looking for suitable placement in sales and marketing.

NOC available with valid D/L. Contact 96392009 Looking for suitable placement in outdoor marketing field with 6 years experience valid Omani driving license. Abundant experience of local market can handle independently with positive attitude.

Contact 99432807 Indian male 25 yrs M.B.A having More than 2 years experience in sales & marketing good communication skills Looking for a suitable job.

Contact 92152913 email: May4senthil@gmail.com Young female, having experience of working in Oman with expertise in the field of Event Management, Advertising, Marketing and Hotel Management. Currently on a visit visa. Seeking for a suitable Job. Contact 96153578 Indian male 34 years, having 5 years experience in Saudi as Safety Officer looking for suitable jobs in this field. Contact 94349820 Indian male, with 8 yrs exp in Sales Operations & accounts handling, expert in SAP & ERP applications seeks job. Contact 93345990 Indian male, B.Com Graduate, good experience in purchase, worked in SAOC company seeks suitable position. Contact 93219971 Salesman, building materials, Gulf exp, knows Hindi, Arabic & English.

Contact : 95516807

MISCELLANEOUS

SALES / MARKETING 18 yrs Oman experience in building materials seeking suitable placement, NOC available Contact 93105775 Indian male 9+ years experience in GCC and Indian in hardcore sales and customer service looking for buffer opportunity, holding valid Oman driving license visit visa.

Experience shipping, banking, safety products (PPE) Contact : 97132606 Indian Male having 7 yrs in experience in Oman Sales & Marketing Office Automation Printer, Copier, MFP, IT products & Stationery. Looking for Suitable Placement NOC Available Contact :9738474 Indian Male, 7 yrs experience in building materials trading having Oman D/L, immediate release available. Contact 98676713 Indian male, B.Com, 20 yrs experience in Sales & Marketing having UAE light D/L looking for suitable post. Contact +91 9946699062, email : sajim40@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Sri Lankan, female, 25 years, Graduate in Management, possessing 6 years experience in banking, financial, administration and risk management. Currently on a visit visa seeks suitable immediate placement. Contact 93462521. wathsala.perera1@yahoo.com Indian male, 25 years, now on visit visa in Muscat. One year experience in accounts, looking for suitable position.

Contact:95752827, Email id: mhdfsrn@gmail.com Corporate Communication Professional, smart, quality English writing, double Masters, Oman exp in Corporate, Internal &Marketing Communication, CSR Programs, PRs, Ads, Events, Campaigns, Customer Relations. Immediately Available, Release. # 91229392 Manager-Corporate Communications, pleasing personality, excellent English, Masters-Journalism, Mass Communication, Finance, expert in writing & publishing press releases, advertisements, website content, speeches, CSR, promotions, events. Immediate joining, NOC. # 91229392 Indian male, 25 years, now on visit visa in Muscat. One year experience in accounts , looking for suitable position.

Contact:95752827, Email id: mhdfsrn@gmail.com Indian Male 28yr age having 6year gulf+ Indian experience in HR field. Looking for suitable placement. Contact:97914340, Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com 30 years Indian male with hotel management degree, 02 years experience in F&B service at five star hotel in Dubai and 05 years in American 6 star cruiseliner as Butler . Currently in Muscat on visit visa. Contact 91075704 Senior Accountant Indian Male with 13 Year of Experience (7 years in Oman) in Accounts & Finance having valid Omani Driving License with NOC Available.

Looking for suitable job. Contact: 96001918 Indian Male, 27, Mechanical Engineer. HND, with exp. as Project coordinator in U.A.E, Valid GCC D/L, currently on visit, looking for a suitable position. Contact 97070427

Indian, Male, 43 years, Chartered Accountant, 18+ years of experience, looking for a change. Valid Driving License. Release available.

Contact: aurosun@gmail.com CIVIL Autocad Draughtsman Looking for part time job.

Contact 95218737 Indian female (B.A. B.ed) seeks suitable placement as fresher primary teacher.(Specialization in social studies, currently pursuing M.A in English).Presently in family visa status. Contact:99713864.

Email:poojaavn@yahoo.com 28 year Indian male Art specialist with 7.5 yrs of experience in Healthcare industries in AR analyst (US Based Project - M.BA., Finance) seeking suitable placement. Contact +91 9841906431, E-mail: aru1986k@gmail.com MBA fresher, with fluency in English, Arabic, Hindi, Tamil and Malayalam, looking for suitable job. Currently in Oman on visit visa. Mob : +968-93730345

ACCA+2.5 years of experience in Accounts, Bookeeping and Audit.

Looking for job in Accounts/Finance/Internal Audit. Also worked on Oracle R12, Tally, Quick Books and PeachTree. Gsm: 91717234 Email: xhoaib101@hotmail.com,

MBA (international business) with 2.5 years experience in sales and also experience in vehicle spare parts (in-charge) looking for a suitable job presently on visit visa. Contact 93539456, 95765868, E mail: mathewsantony936@gmail.com

Indian Male 22 years, B.Com looking for suitable placement.

Contact no. - 99894520 email- fouzishaque@gmail.com

British Beauty Therapist Looking for suitable position Mob: 97175240

B.tech Mechanical Engineer, Keralite bachelor with B.tech looking for job in oman with a year of experience on Visiting Visa.

Contact no.-0096891296354, Email-manurpr88@gmail.com Part- Time Accountant, well versed with all accounting, Finalization, Budgeting available.

Contact : 98803439 Sr. Sales Manager (BE/MBA) 9 yrs in Oman; (GCC/omn-d/l); seeking immediate replacement in mktg, sales or, bdm profile, # 96040977, kvmssn@gmail.com

Indian Teacher Female with two years experience seeks suitable placement in Indian or Omani Schools currently on visit visa please contact 99436826. Email id :- ineshdsouza31@gmail.com

Planning Engineer 7 years of Experience in project planning and control in oil and gas, PDO & QP Approved Planner,PRIMAVERA-6,B. Tech in Mechanical engineering from CUSAT Contactullasprabhakaran@yahoo.co.in, ph-00974 70230223

Diploma in Fire and Safety Engineering. Have 3.5 years of experience as an Safety Advisor.

Having a valid Omani driving license is looking for job. For further information please contact me at 96896176872, 9689808527.

Indian male total 17 yrs exp in field of procurement, inventory, controlling & accountancy. Local release available, seeking suitable placement. # 91680124 / 98606546

Civil draughtsman expecting part time job.(civil infrastructure) and BBS. Contact :95914642

Indian female, B.Com. knowledge of Ms .Office & Tally, 4yrs experience in A/Cing & admin dept .looking for good placement in any field. Contact.98928220

Indian male 28yr age having 6 years Gulf+ Indian experience in HR field, looking for suitable placement. Contact: 97914340, Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com MBA fresher, with fluency in English, Arabic, Hindi, Tamil & Malayalam, looking for suitable job. Currently in Oman on visit visa. Mob : +968-93730345 Indian male Executive secretary having vast experience in admin, logistics & procurement well versed with computer seek suitable placement. Contact : 99514286 B.tech Mechanical Engineer : Keralite bachelor with B. Tech looking for job in Oman with three year of experience ,on Visiting Visa. Contact no.0096891296354, Email-manurpr88@gmail.com Indian Male more than 10 years gulf experience in Office / Sales Coordinator, Admin (employees visa processes), Secretarial and purchase with good computer skills. Having Driving license and NOC available. Looking for suitable placement. Contact 99709336 Indian male, 14 years Experience in maintenance & Supervisor in hotel ( Electrical, Ac Mechanical & Plumber ) mob : 95 25 36 40 27 years, Indian optometrist , female , 3years experience looking for suitable placement in Muscat. Contact : 92066532 mail: aradhanaarun88@gmail.com Sales manager (be-mech/mba) in oman since-2005; (omn-d/l); seeking immediate replacement in marketing and sales or, bdm profile, contact-96040977, kvmssn@gmail.Com

ACCA-UK, B.Sc (OBU-UK) having 2.8 years of experience in Accounts, Bookeeping and Audit.

Looking for job in Accounts/Finance department. Also worked on Oracle R12, Tally, Quick Books and Peach Tree. Email: AliRiazMughal@Outlook.com, Gsm: +968-95459936 Indian Male 28yr age having 6year gulf+ Indian experience in HR field, looking for suitable placement. Contact:97914340,Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com Indian male, 11 years exp.

In accounting, knowledge in tally also. Looking for a part time job.

Contact . 98983122 Female Executive Assistant/Executive Secretary with 27+ experience, worked with top management/Board in financial services with shorthand skills & Omani driving license, seeks suitable placement. Call 95941515

INDIAN FEMALE ,Graduate, Certified in IATA, with 2 and half years experience in Admin/ Accounts and Office coordinator looking for job in Field of Travel/Office Management. Contact -92459686/ 92816803, Emailkrupa_patel1984@yahoo.com Part Time Accounting Job Complete Data Entry, Reporting and Finalization. Any Time Available.

Location Ruwi to Bharka. Please Contact- +968-92049215 Email:- aiafe.oman@gmail.com Indian female, 24yrs, M.Com (Accounts) having 3 yrs experience in Accounts, HR, Administration, Customer Service. Good Computer Proficiency seeks suitable Position. Visa Transfer/NOC Available. Contact: 99654913 Indian female B.Com Graduate, 4yrs experience in accounts, admin dept looking for placement in any field 98928220 Sudanese/Bsc IT/ 2 years experience/ excellent English-Arabic speaking/ Omani driving license/ # 96387227, henrykarrar@gmail.com

FOR HIRE

TRUCK FOR HIRE Isuzu 10 ton cargo body truck (2012 FVR) with UAE experienced driver available for long term / short term rent.

Contact: 95346950 Foklift 7,5,3 Ton with driver – 99424338 Hire Generators, Air conditioners.

Contact 98927220 Running truck wash for rent in Ouhi Sunia Sohar. Serious people can. Contact on 97864747 50 seater bus with PDO specification for rent or lease.

Contact 99839898

NRI

Indian Female, 24 yrs MS. Software Engg. Currently on family visa, 1 year experience in SAP WM & IT seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 95490105 Senior Accounts Professional, Indian Male, 35 years, M.Com, MBA (Fin) 8 years in Oman, with valid Oman DL and NOC available.

Capable to handle accounts up to finalization.

Contact 9602 3965.

Indian female, Graduate, Certified in IATA, with 8 months experience in Travel and 2 and half years experience in Operations and HR looking for job in Field of Travel/ Office Management. Contact -92816803/ 92459686. Emailvijetadevilishangel@gmail.com

Brand new 3BHK for sale, 4 cents, 1600 sq ft, Vastu based contemporary style with modular kitchen house in Thirumala, Trivandrum.

Contac 0091- 9447159105, E Mail : bijursmct@yahoo.com Investments, insurance and pension plans from SBI life (State Bank of India group).

Contact 95778431 Spacious, 2BHK flat for sale at Hebbal Bangalore.

Contact 96263157

W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 1 8 , 2 0 1 5

D7

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours Contact- 98029602, 92808636

TOURS

TOURS

RENT A CAR

TRANSPORTATION Transportation. Contact 98505294 Transportation. Contact 99664703 Picking and drop. Contact 96743215 Transportation. Contact 98518979

RENT A CAR

Transport to ISWK. Contact 93172589 Transportation available.

Contact 95570429 Transportation. Contact 91379976 Pick & Drop any time.

Contact 97014786 Pick & drop anytime in al Khuwair.

Contact 99764307

DRIVING

Lady Trainer available for driving classes in Seeb area. Knows Hindi, English, Arabic & Baluchi.

Contact 98869198

D8

W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 1 8 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

WEBSITE

MANPOWER

COMPUTER

Canadian Manpower Co. Recruiting Construction, Hotel, Medical, Gas & Oil Staffs - 2 years contract, work visa, tickets, accommodation.

Free recruitment. Please send CV to margholdingoman@yahoo.com, www.margholdingimmigration.com, 93392630

CLASSES

WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

Contact: http//webviewoman

BUSINESS

Available construction workers, hospital staff with Oman parametric, housemaids Indian, Uganda.

Contact 9629417/98408488 Email: alkubratrading@gmail.com

GOOD NEWS

GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998 MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. Contact 24793614/ 99314807 Air conditioning split A/C, Ducted split & package A/C, maintenance & installation. Contact 98667326

Taimour Ayurvedic Clinic, Ruwi offers genuine & effective treatment for back pain, paralysis, cervical and lumbar spondylitis, osteoarthritis, joint pains, sinusitis, migraine, allergic problems, varicose vein and all other health related problems. Kerala massage and rejuvenation package available. For details please contact: 92197920/ 24799689 Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis massage, steam bath, obesity, spondylitis IDEAL , CARE Ayurvedic Clinic 18 November street, Azaiba. Contact 99639695 / 99117987 Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam). Contact 24475280 / 95371554 / 92504980 , www.siddhayur.com FREE INFORMATION ABOUT ISLAM. If you would like to know more about Islam, please call: 99425598, 96050000, 99353988, 99253818, 99341395, and 99379133. For ladies: 99415818, 99321360, 99730723 Orvisit: www.islamfact.com

Cheapest prices all types window, curtains and Blinds.

Contact 99539521 Carpet & sofa shampooing. Ocean Centre LLC. Contact 99884591 / 92682970 Tutoring ACCA/CAT subjects, passing exams by expert lectures.

Contact +( 968) 99229700

Cleaning services, carpet & sofa shampooing, marble restoration (grinding) and polishing, pest control, fogging service. Contact 99448057, 95401996

MATRIMONIAL Alliance seeking from Hindu Keralite girl for a widower age 47 yrs having female child (10 yrs) working in automotive corporate Muscat as Manager. Contact 96082694 / 99379956 Alliance seeking from Menon/Nair parents of professionally qualified grooms for a B.Tech graduate girl hails from Palakkad (23, Makeeram – 1 dosham), presently working in Dubai and staying with parents.

Please contact +968-92146800.

Preference to Palakkad, Trichur & Malabar side boys.

Tamil Muslim parents looking for boys from good reputed family B.S.C smart, 23 yrs.Contact 99443236 after 6 pm

Grade -1 tender board construction LLC Company looking for joint ventures on a larger scale or partners who can invest 70% of the capital.

Email: civilprojects57@gmail.com Coffee shop business partner required. Contact 95212017

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

Cheapest Prices, all types window, curtains and blind.

Contact 99539521 Computer service/ AMC/ Networking. Contact 91339882 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722 House shifting. Contact 99708138 House shifting packing.

Contact 99657644, 98518013

Split & window unit A.C servicing & repairing. Contact 99557080

A/C maintenance split A/C servicing. Contact 94217681/ 99210141

Window & spilt unit A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact 96236476

Cheap website / software development, SEO, SMO, SMM, APP store optimization, apps for IOS, Android, windows, blackberry.

Contact 95526871, www.ashterzsoft.com

AC service repair and maintenance.

Contact 95356877 We offer you the business services maintenance of buildings and villas for paint and carpentry and decoration works and installation of material awater Broof and cleaning services building management and leasing of real estate . Contact 99070093

Carpet & sofa shampooing. Ocean Centre LLC. Contact 99884591 / 92682970

Cold store freezer, chiller A/C installation and maintenance.

Contact 92279370

Feasibility study, market research, financial analysis of companies.

(968) 99229700

Door to Door Computers repair specialist laptop software Website cartridges. Contact 99199376 Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722 Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting, Plumbing, Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. # 24810137, 99450130 GULF INTERNATIONAL LLC. all kind of pest control.

Contact 92326955 Pest control & cleaning services professionals in pest control service bedbugs treatment, rodent, treatment, snake treatment and termite treatment, pre and post construction. Contact 93098450, 96408964, fax : 24472116

Pest Control Treatments, Termites, Cockroaches, Bedbugs. Contact Ocean Centre LLC. Contact 99344723

MATRIMONIAL Keralite Syrian Christian Parents seeking alliance from any Syrian Christian Denominations Graduated working girls preferably in Oman or UAE for their son MBA 29/175-born brought up in Muscat working in a reputed organization. # 97226324 email: m4proposal@yahoo.com We are looking for a Muslim Girl for our son interested parents or daughter May. Contact 97664009 Hindu Ezhava family, settled in Muscat looking for suitable groom working within Oman for their daughter 25 yrs (MBA) working with a reputed company in Muscat.

Contact : 98689663 Male Nurse Keralite Christian RC Boy, Age 28 Years, Inviting Proposals. Contact: 93657535