Times of Oman - October 20, 2015

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FROM THE WORDS OF HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN

Annual Session of the Council of Oman 2008

‘His Majesty’s Wisdom’ We emphasise that the issue of enforcement of justice is imperative and inevitable, and that our monitoring apparatus is alert and dedicated to carrying out their duties and responsibilities in order to safeguard the country’s achievements.

TUESDAY, October 20, 2015 / 6 Muharram 1437 AH

CABLE

His Majesty receives thanks MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has received a cable of thanks from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, in reply to His Majesty’s condolences cable for the victims of crane collapse at the Grand Mosque.

In his cable, King Salman expressed his thanks for His Majesty the Sultan’s generous feelings and sincere prayers, praying to Allah the Almighty to rest the deceased’s souls in peace, the injured a speedy recovery and protect His Majesty and the Omani people against all harms. -ONA

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Calls for Oman to boost public transport choices Amid talks of limiting the number of expat driving licences issued, many take to social media to call for viable alternative

FAHAD AL GHADANI

fahadnews@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman needs to accelerate its new public transport plans, especially if the number of driving licences issued to expatriates is to be limited.

That was the overwhelming sentiment on social media after the Times of Oman revealed that the Royal Oman Police (ROP) is holding discussions over limiting the number of expatriates eligible for driving licences.

The story attracted more than 100 comments on facebook.com/ timesofoman with a mixture of views, some welcoming the move and many saying there should be a viable transport alternative for those who will be unable to drive.

Speaking to Times of Oman, Ibrahim Al Hsani at the media department of Muscat Municipality, said that a joint team including Muscat Municipality, ROP and Ministry of Transport is working on the public transport system.

“The joint team has been holding continuous meetings to discuss the public transport system issues,” said Al Hsani.

The clarification comes after the ROP mentioned plans to limit

the issuance of driving licences to a certain segment of expatriates.

Following the announcement, the public have been urging authorities to put in place a better public transport system before implementing the driving licence rule.

Salim Al Ghammari, a Muscat Municipal Council member, said the idea of new driving licence rule was suggested by the Municipal Council during a joint meeting held to discuss the public trans-

S AV I N G L I V E S

port plan. Al Ghammari, however clarified that, “such a rule should be put in place only after a proper public transport is out in place”.

“We had urged the ROP not to issue driving licences to everybody and that it should be only for specific people among expatriates,” said Al Ghammari.

“If everybody is eligible for a driving licence, then who will use public transport?” asked Al Ghammari.

He added that the authorities concerned had promised to announce the Public Transport Plan last August and then said in September that “nothing has been announced so far”.

On Monday, Times of Oman had carried an article about the authorities’ plan to announce new rules for expatriates applying for driving licence.

A senior official at ROP had told Times of Oman that, “we are coordinating with the Ministry of Manpower (MoM) to restructure the process of issuing driving licence to expatriates”, adding that until now, anybody could apply for a driving licence.

While the move to reduce the number of expats with driving licences was welcomed by many, some members of the public wanted a better public transport system.

On Times of Oman’s Facebook page, Brl De Mac said, “I don’t think the problem is with expats driving. It’s a fact that people here don’t share cars, Omanis or expats.

Most cars you see on the roads have one person or two. If you want to cut the traffic then have car pools where people can share car journeys (for free) or get a bus system in place. (It) works everywhere else in the world. Dubai’s sky train is another good example of traffic reducing plan.”

TROPICAL LOW

Need blood? Send a Whatsapp message REJIMON K

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: In the first in the series of our #OmanPride campaign, we are featuring here a Whatsapp group, which provides information on blood donors to save lives, irrespective of caste, creed, race, religion or nationality.

Formed some five months ago, the Whatsapp group in Muscat called, “We Help Blood Donors”, has donated blood to more than 250 needy people until now.

“Blood forms the common bond between human beings. Our mission is that not a single life should be lost for want of blood,” Balakrishnan Valiyatt, a member of this Whatsapp group, told the Times of Oman (TOO).

“Every day, we deal with two or three cases. There are more

THE HOME OF GOOD NEWS

#OMANPRIDE than 150 active members associated with the group and we have been able to save many lives,” Balakrishnan said.

The Whatsapp group maintains active coordination among its members and another similar group, called “We Help Muscat”, to provide donors.

“Whenever anyone needs

blood, we receive calls from the blood bank itself, and spread the message. Thanks to the coordination among the members, we are able to spot or provide a donor within minutes,” Saraswathy Manoj, another active member of the group, said.

Precious life “When it comes to donating blood, we never look into details, such as nationality or religion.

Blood has no difference. When we donate, we save a precious life.

No one should die in the Sultanate of Oman for want of blood,” Manoj noted.

The group also organises blood donation camps in association with the official blood bank in Muscat on certain days.

On the International Day of Non-Violence observed on Octo-

ber 2, the group had organised a blood donation camp following an invitation from the blood bank.

“These days, whenever an accident victim is admitted to the hospital, the blood bank officials use blood from their stock and inform us. Our donors replace it later on.

The blood bank officials are quite cooperative,” Kabeer CV, a member of the group, said.

While recounting a memorable experience during their blood donation efforts, Kabeer said the group had recently donated blood to an Omani boy, who was admitted to the hospital following an accident.

“We donated blood and prayed for him. But later, we came to know that he succumbed to his injuries. It was a sad piece of news, and we will never forget it,” Kabeer added. >A6 FOOTBALL

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

OMAN

Kuwait steps down as host of Gulf Cup

Passenger to Calicut denied boarding

1

An Air India Express passenger to Calicut, belonging to Kerala, was stopped from boarding the flight as he refused to remove the excessive hand baggage luggage on Sunday evening, the country manager of the airline said. >A2

OMAN

Kamil accident victims battle for their lives

2

Three persons injured in the Al Kamil accident are battling for their lives.

“Three vehicles were involved in the accident. Two of the dead were from Wadi bin Khalid and the other two were from Wadi bin Kabil,” said the police officials. >A2

Barr Al Jissah teams up with UK yacht maker

3

A company best known for creating beauty at sea is coming ashore to team up with a luxury development in Oman, Barr Al Jissah is creating a collection limited edition town homes. >A6

Wadis overflow after heavy rain in Quriyat Times News Service MUSCAT: Heavy rain has been reported in the Wilayat of Quriyat.

According to Oman News Agency, heavy showers have caused overflowing of several wadis, including Wadi Al Misfah, Wadi Mijlas, Wadi Al Arbiyeen and Wadi Al Sireen.

Civil defence officials have asked people to avoid driving through the wadis.

Meanwhile, rainfall measurement stations of the Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources have shown that the rainfall is continuing in a number of wilayats in north Oman leading to overflowing of wadis of Tamah, Omdah, Ajmah, Qabat and the wadis of Yah and Ham, Wadi of Asmaya in the wilayat of Dima

Wal Taein. Some wilayats have seen no rainfall. However, they saw overflow of wadis due to the rainfall in the adjacent wilayats.

The highest rainfall was recorded at 53mm in the Wilayat of Quriyat, Muscat Governorate and 25mm in the Wilayat of Dima Wal Taein in the Governorate of North Al Sharqiyah. —ONA

PLUNGING CRUDE OIL EXPORTS

Sultanate’s budget deficit rises to OMR2.68 billion A E JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com

OMAN

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Mihin Lanka’s India airfares start at OMR6

KUWAIT: Kuwait has stepped down as host of December’s Gulf Cup of Nations, its cabinet said on Monday, following FIFA’s decision last week to suspend the country’s football association.

FIFA said the ban was handed down because of government interference in the running of the KFA. -Reuters

IN SPATE: Heavy showers have caused overflowing of several wadis. Photo by @WeatherOman/Twitter

MUSCAT: Oman’s budget deficit for the first eight months of 2015 rose to OMR2.68 billion as falling crude oil export revenues started affecting the fiscal balance, according to data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

This is against a surplus of OMR205.7 million for the same period last year and against a projected deficit of OMR2.5 bil-

lion for the entire year by the government.

The average price of Oman Crude plunged by 43.5 per cent to $59.8 per barrel for the first nine months of 2015 ending September, from $105.81 a barrel for the same period last year.

However, the overall crude oil production of the country edged up 3.2 per cent to 267.06 million barrels for the first nine months or an average production of 978,200 barrels per day.

“The government has to reexamine its existing tariff and

fee structures (for reducing deficit),” said Loai B, Bataineh, general manager and head of investment banking group at the Oman Arab Bank.

He elaborated that although 300,000 companies are incorporated in Oman, only 12,000 firms are registered for paying taxes. Of this, more than 600 firms actually pay corporate income tax to the exchequer. Also, the OAB official noted that the government has to introduce new tariffs and fees for certain services provided by the state. >A6

REVENUE DIPS: The average price of Oman crude decreased to $59.8 per barrel for the first nine months of 2015. -Supplied photo

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TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015 The decision also bans the import of military-like clothes and designs of traditional Omani clothes that are modified in any way that offends the Omani identity Dr Ali bin Massoud bin Ali Al Sunaidi, Minister of Commerce and Industry’s directive

OMAN AL KAMIL

Accident victims fighting for life Staff Reporter MUSCAT: Three people injured in the Al Kamil accident, which claimed four lives on Sunday, are fighting for their life, sources said.

“Three vehicles were involved in the accident. Two victims, aged 42 and 44, were from Wadi bin Khalid and the other two, aged 27

and 16, were from Wadi bin Kabil,” police officials told the Times of Oman.

All the victims are Omanis and the three others injured in the accident have been admitted to the hospital.

The accident took place at around 11:30am on Sunday.

Meanwhile, in a different ac-

cident in Ibra, two people have died. “Four vehicles were involved in the accident,” police officials stated. The two victims have been identified as an Omani and a Bangladeshi expatriate, they added.

The four people injured in the accident were admitted to hospital, sources said.

Three vehicles were involved in the accident. – Photo by @ONN_1 / Twitter DECISION

Ban imposed on import of offensive clothing

Passenger off-loaded for excess baggage Many passengers incorrectly believe that the weight of items purchased from the duty-free shops at the airport is excluded from the

The decision would also prevent the promotion of such goods by any means. -File photo

hand baggage limit

Times News Service

REJIMON K

MUSCAT: Import of clothes, fabrics, textiles, shoes and any goods that contain immoral images, logos, phrases, abusive language, or statements against religion, or related to any terrorist organisation, has been banned.

Dr Ali bin Massoud bin Ali Al Sunaidi, Minister of Commerce and Industry, said this while issuing a directive, banning the import of all such items.

The decision would also prevent the promotion of such goods by any means and bans the import of military-like clothes and designs of traditional Omani clothes that are modified in any way that offends the Omani identity.

The decision also enforces strict punishment for violators of the traditional Omani costumes. Anyone found violating the provisions of this decision for the first time will become liable to pay an administrative fine not exceeding OMR500.

In case the offence is repeated for the second time, the violators will have to pay an administrative fine not exceeding OMR1,000 and the offending activity will be suspended for three months, and in case the offense is repeated for a third time, the violators will pay an administrative fine not exceeding OMR3,000, along with a cancellation of the licence from the commercial register.

MUSCAT: An Air India Express passenger to Calicut, the northern city of the south Indian state Kerala, was stopped from boarding the flight as he refused to remove the excessive hand baggage luggage on Sunday evening, the country manager of the airline said.

However, the passenger left Oman on a fresh ticket provided by the airline on Monday.

“The permissible amount of hand baggage is 7kg. However, the passenger was having goods weighing 25kg. As per our request, he removed some. But it was not okay. Again we requested him. He refused to do so. For a single passenger, we can’t delay the flight. So, we took back his boarding pass,” BP Kulkarni, country manager of Air India in Muscat, told Times of Oman.

Majid, the passenger who was stopped from boarding the flight, was on a visit visa and as it was cancelled, he has been forced to stay in the airport for 24 hours.

“Even though, he was not ready to understand the situation, on humanitarian grounds the airline made provisions to provide him a new ticket to fly on Monday. Due to the issue, we had to off-load his luggage from the aircraft and had to pay extra charges for the ground handlers,” Kulkarni said, while adding that passengers are not ready to understand the norms of airlines.

Meanwhile, talking to Times of

reji@timesofoman.com

Majid claimed his hand luggage was 14kg, not 25, as the airline had said. The hand luggage ceiling is 7kg.– Supplied photo

Oman, Majid said on Sunday that he didn’t have 25kg baggage as claimed by the airline.

“It was only 14kg. It was chocolates bought from duty-free shops. But they were not ready to adjust it. I was ready to remove it. But they took back my boarding pass and tore it down,” Majid claimed.

However, the airline country manager denied that his official at the airport had torn down the boarding pass.

Majid also added that his friends will approach the embassy to lodge a complaint against the airline and will not travel until they provide him a compensation.

Earlier, Majid told Times of Oman that he won’t board the new flight until they decide on paying him compensation “for the hassles they have created”.

In July this year, dispelling misconceptions on the hand baggage weight allowance, quoting airline officials and travel agents, Times of Oman had reported that the weight of items purchased from duty-free shops come within the same limit and is not an additional entitlement.

“Many passengers believe that the weight of items purchased from the duty-free shops at the airport is excluded from the hand baggage weight. So, they exceed the hand baggage weight limit and finally land in trouble when they are stopped at the gates. To avoid this, we advise passengers that items purchased from dutyfree shops are also included in the hand baggage weight,” BP Kulkarni, country manager of Air India, had said then.

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OMAN

N C S I D ATA

Oman Post deliveries reach 66,447 private post boxes MUSCAT: More than 38.83 million inland letters were handled

by Oman Post, the Sultanate’s official postal service, last year.

The letters included registered, ordinary and printed matter, according to data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI). Ordinary letters comprised major chunk of the deliveries at 38.37 million.

The Sultanate has a total of 92 Oman Post offices and 66,447 private post boxes, according to data available for 2014.

Among the governorates, the Governorate of Muscat has 30,100 post boxes including fixed and mobile, while the Governorate of Dhofar has 7,250. The Governorate of Al Dhakiliyah has 6,439 private post boxes, and the Governorate of Al Wusta has the least at 260. The Governorate of Muscat also has the largest number of post offices at 21, followed by the Governorate of Dhofar with 13. The Governorate of Al Wusta comes last with just two post offices.

Postage-paid letters Domestic parcels dispatched through Oman Post exceeded 6,041,998 last year, marking a significant decline from prior year figure of more than 8,610,730 in 2013. In this category, postagepaid letters numbered 5,840,580 as against 8.46 million in 2013.

Also, more than 1.93 million letters were sent to destinations outside the Sultanate through

the Oman Post last year, while incoming letters were recorded at over 5.47million.

Outgoing and incoming mail parcels exceeded 69,202 and 14,482 respectively.

NCSI figures reveal that there were as many as 9,323 inland Express Mail Service (EMS) letters, and 17,615 outgoing EMS letters. Incoming EMS letters numbered 43,439. -ONA

The base ticket

The airline will allow baggage of up to 50 kilograms, including the hand baggage, for economy class passengers

from OMR6. Even after adding other charges, it will come to around OMR45.

Such cheap rates will be a blessing for passengers

Deepal Pallegangoda

travelling to south

Country manager of Mihin Lanka

Indian destinations

MUSCAT: With Sri Lankan airline Mihin Lanka set to commence operations in Oman from October 25, passengers from the Sultanate will now be able to travel to the country at cheaper base rates, starting at OMR6.

“The base ticket rates will start from OMR6. If we add other charges also, it will come to around OMR45. Such cheap rates will be a blessing for passengers travelling to south Indian destinations,” Deepal Pallegangoda, country manager of Mihin Lanka in Muscat, told the Times of Oman.

“Moreover, the airline will allow baggage of up to 50 kilograms

L A B O U R L AW V I O L AT I O N

24 Asian expatriates arrested in Sohar raids SOHAR: As many as 24 Asian expatriates of different nationalities were arrested in a series of raids conducted by the North Al Batinah Police on residences in the Wilayat of Sohar.

The offenders were reportedly violating labour laws, as well as foreign residency rules.

Illegal residency A senior official said the operation was part of the Royal Oman Police’s efforts to curb illegal residency and rein in absconding workers, which was negatively affecting security, the Sultanate’s economy and society. -ONA

HAVE YOUR SAY

rates will start

reji@timesofoman.com

Yusuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs, received at the building of the Foreign Ministry yesterday Dr Khalid Khoja, President of the Syrian National Coalition and his accompanying delegation. The conversation during the meeting focused on the situation in Syria. -ONA

Among the governorates, the Governorate of Muscat has 30,100 post boxes including fixed and mobile, while the Governorate of Dhofar has 7,250. The Governorate of Al Dhakiliyah has 6,439 private post boxes, and the Governorate of Al Wusta has the least number of them at 260

Mihin Lanka’s India airfares start at OMR6

REJIMON K

ALAWI RECEIVES KHALID KHOJA

(kg), including the hand baggage, for economy class passengers and 60kg for business class passengers,” Deepal added.

The Muscat-Colombo-Muscat flight operations will start from October 25, with four flights per week and from November 25, the airline will start flying five flights per week.

Initially, the flights will depart on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Later, they will depart on Wednesday as well.

“The passengers will be provided connectivity flights on single tickets purchased from Muscat to south Indian destinations, such as Kochi, Trivandrum, Madurai, Chennai, Trichy and Bangalore via Colombo,” Deepal said, adding that the move was a part of the airline’s five-year expansion plan

to achieve greater growth, whilst enhancing connectivity throughout the region.

Meanwhile, Ingird Guruge, marketing consultant for Mihin Lanka, said there was a 52 per cent increase in the number of Omani passengers travelling to Sri Lanka in 2014, compared with 2013.

Tourist destination “We are expecting more because the rates will be cheaper in Mihin Lanka. Moreover, Sri Lanka is one of the best tourist destinations in South Asia. Omanis prefer the country for its natural beauty,” Guruge said.

According to airline officials, Sri Lanka’s Tourism Ministry is planning to increase the room capacity to 45,000 by 2016.

OMANI FRENCH CENTRE PHOTO EXPO

An exhibition titled ‘Oman... The essence of its people’, featuring photographs of Omani photographer Ahmed Al Toqi, opened at the Omani French Centre recently. The exhibition will go on until October 29. -Pictures of the exhibition supplied by ONA

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

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TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

OMAN C O M P L I M E N TA RY P R O G R A M M E

ROHM plans show to celebrate 45 years of HM’s reign Times News Service MUSCAT: To celebrate the 45th year of the remarkable reign of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) will present a programme entitled ‘Music for FortyFive Years of Loyalty & Love’, on October 24 at 7pm.

“The complimentary programme will be held outdoors on the maidan, the courtyard in front of the main entrance to the ROHM, so that as many people as possible can participate in this celebration of the nation’s love of its leader.

The concert is free of charge and everyone is welcome to come, including families with children,” said a press statement.

Music gala An expression of loyalty to His Majesty and the Sultanate through music, this gala is one of three such major events hosted by the Royal Opera House Muscat. A few days ago, the Omani Women’s Day Celebration marked the start of a set of events at the Royal Opera House Muscat that honour the forty-fifth year of His Majesty’s reign.

“This music gala, Music for Forty-Five Years of Loyalty & Love, is a grand concert set to images of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said and Oman — a

EXPRESSION OF LOYALTY: An expression of loyalty to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said and the Sultanate through music, this gala is one of three such major events hosted by the Royal Opera House Muscat. – Supplied photo

ic video clips from the past fortyfive years, selected and arranged for the gala event, in cooperation with Oman TV. “The archival sequences show highlights in the development of the Sultanate, from its modest beginnings in 1970 to the fully modern nation we know today — capturing many heart-stirring moments, including memorable

passionate and heartfelt tribute which gives voice to the feelings of love and loyalty we all feel,” the statement said.

It is also a prelude to the Military Music of Oman concert to be held early in November, in which the Sultanate’s military musicians will play and march in a glorious, heartstopping display of patriotism.

The programme features histor-

sequences from His Majesty’s inspiring National Day orations and magnificent military parades.

“The video programme is complemented by live performances starring the highly acclaimed Egyptian singer Hani Shaker, fresh from his smash hit concert at the ROHM a few days ago — and the very special Omani singer Salah Al Zadjali.”

NEW BRAND

UK’s Spun Candy opens outlet in Oman MOBIN MATHEW BLESSON

mobinmathew@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Global British brand Spun Candy has opened its first store in the Sultanate.

Bringing a range of bespoke vegetarian confectionary classics to Oman, Spun Candy’s outlet at the Oman Avenues Mall has been brought to the Sultanate by Bin Mirza International (BMI).

The opening of the store was presided over by Jonathan Wilks CMG, the British ambassador to Oman. “This is another example of the close ties of friendship and business between the Sultanate of Oman and the United Kingdom”, said the ambassador.

“I was delighted to see the launch of Spun Candy in Oman, particularly in such a fresh and innovative way,” he added.

The outlet is offering a range of vegetarian confectionary in their original form of Rock Kandy, complete with candy canes, lollipops, popcorn clusters, caramel, chocolate and fudge, infused classic fruit flavours, toffee, honeycomb and dark chocolate upon request.

“BMI is proud to introduce Spun Candy as a global brand of

Known as ‘The Prince of Arabian Tarab’, Hani Shaker enthralls audiences with popular songs, timeless Arab classics and his own compositions. Shaker grew up with music, playing the piano as a child, and came of age in the golden era of the great Umm Kulthum and other renowned Egyptian singers, such as Mohammed Abdel Wahab and Abdel Halim Hafez.

Gold sales on the rise on Indian festivals

NEW TASTE IN TOWN: The opening of the store was presided over by Jonathan Wilks CMG, the Brit-

ish ambassador to Oman. – Jun Estrada

Jewellery outlets SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY VISIT

Moosa, everything at the outlet has been made by a professionally trained team in the store.

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N .C O M

First store “This is the first (store) in the Middle East and we are very excited of the potential it brings for the brand” says James Ellender, managing director of Spun Candy.

BMI and Spun Candy have also introduced a new concept at the outlet, which is to see the live preparations for making confectionary, and to buy it from the store.

PHOTO GALLERY

delicious proportions,” said Jannat Moosa, marketing director at Bin Mirza International.

“Bringing Spun Candy’s confectionary products are a treat for local communities and business as we cater for everything from children’s birthdays to large corporate events”, she added. According to

“Customers can not only satisfy their sweet-tooth, but also unearth the science and beauty behind candy making”, Ellender said.

Bin Mirza International is a leader in Oman’s hospitality sector, catering to communities with a range of international food, beverage and consumer focused outlets.

Amongst BMI’s companies are its latest introduction Spun Candy, in addition to Nando’s, Steak Escape, CinnZeo Bakery, Bread Talk and Second Cup.

AMBASSADOR’S ROLLING TROPHY

Indian School Ghubra students win quiz trophy

QUIZZING: Sixteen Indian schools in Oman took part in the

event and showcased their brilliant quizzing talent. –Supplied photo

Times News Service MUSCAT: Indian School Al Ghubra students, Shubham Bhan of Class VI, Aditya Harish of Class VII and Madhav Madhusoodanan of Class VIII, have clinched the Ambassador’s Rolling Trophy for the fourth time at the 10th National Quiz held at Indian School Al Ghubra recently.

The event was organised under the aegis of Dr Avirat Vaishnav of Quizpot.

Indra Mani Pandey, the Indian ambassador to the Sultanate, was the chief guest on the occasion.

Sixteen Indian schools in Oman took part in the event and showcased their brilliant quizzing talent.

The quiz was conducted by quizmaster Murali Pillai, who added all the flavours of excitement to the quizzing format, which ranged from movies, fiction, literature, mythology, folk tales and history to sports.

The quiz was an exciting and thrilling contest, which unleashed the potential of all the participants.

The management and staff of Indian School Al Ghubra congratulated the winning team for their laudable performance.

The recipient of many prestigious awards from countries throughout the Arab World, Shaker has a remarkable appeal that spans the generations, thrilling young and old alike.

Although he writes contemporary songs, classical Arab music is the bedrock for this musician who balances tradition with modernity.

Singing popular songs on Arab music TV channels, Salah Al Zadjali has been hailed as a proud ‘New Generation’ rising star. Salah rose to fame with an instant hit - a music video entitled Asa Ma Yohashek Ghali’, which is a lament for a beloved who is far away.

It is a fusion piece of classic and contemporary Arab song, with a fresh approach and just a hint of Western influence. Born in Muttrah in 1979, Salah Al Zadjali first performed on stage at the age of 10.

Salah often remarks that he is grateful to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said for supporting both classical Arab and Western music in Oman. Salah likes to sing about what matters most to him, his country and its place in the world.

“I have already sung for the youth, for the children, for soccer and for the nation... I want my next album to reach out, bringing Oman into the international realm to places where my music has not yet been heard,” he said.

expect a huge sale during Dhanteras, the first day of the fiveday Diwali festival

MOBIN MATHEW BLESSON

mobinmathew@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: With Indian festivals of Dussera, Dhanteras and Diwali approaching in two weeks, jewellery outlets expect to post strong sale of gold across the country.

According to Jose Kakkassery Francis, regional manager, Joyalukkas, for the past few days, there has been a slight decline in gold prices at the rate of 50 baiza (bz) to 100bz daily.

Last week, the rate of gold was pegged at around OMR14,800 per gram, which changed to OMR14,500 yesterday.

Even as gold prices dropped, thus becoming a lot less attractive for investors, the love for this yellow metal among the people of the Sultanate has not declined.

“According to experts, the price won’t change much in the coming days,” Jose told the Times of Oman.

“We expect the market to get a boost as we approach Diwali. Various offers are being planned for the occasion to push sales,” Jose said.

Jewellery shops located on the Ruwi High Street are expected to entertain a large number of customers, who will want to purchase bangles, necklaces and ear rings before one of the biggest Indian festivals.

Some outlets are even offering

a 50 per cent discount for diamond ornaments and many are conducting lucky draws to attract customers.

“We are issuing a luck draw coupon for every OMR50 purchase of gold and couple of coupons for every OMR50 purchase of diamond ornaments,” Jose explained.

Jewellery outlets expect a huge sale during Dhanteras, the first day of the five-day Diwali festival.

“We expect a good sale in Dhanteras because the rate won’t change much,” Aju A R, showroom manager of Sky Jewellers, said.

There are buyers, primarily North Indian expatriates, who are booking their jewellery, diamond sets and pearls jewellery ahead the festival. “We had started taking bookings a couple of days back and we are getting a good response so far and expect more (orders) in the coming days,” Jose said.

“Every year during the Diwali period, I buy some gold ornaments and this year I have booked for a necklace,” Uma Devi, a home maker said.

Symbol of prosperity According to her, gold is very valuable as it the symbol of the of wealth and prosperity.

Outlets also expect good sales during Dhanteras and Diwali because it comes during the second week of November as residents get salaries around that time.

According to spokespersons of jewellery stores, their business has been good mainly as far as ornaments are concerned.

“Very few (people) are buying for investment purposes. Probably there is an expectation that the rates will go down further and the customs duty in India is also pulling them back to buy solid gold, such as bars and coins,” one of them said.

TIMELESS ALLURE: There are buyers, primarily north Indian expatriates, who are booking their jewellery, diamond sets and pearls jewellery ahead the festival. – File photo

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OMAN

Boosting research to tackle water shortage Research Center offers a hub where experts cooperate to find solutions to seeking out fresh water by supporting research, training, knowledge exchanges and capacity building HELPING HAND: High-standard specialised training is offered to engineers, researchers, academics and professional technicians who work, or will be working, at desalination plants. – Supplied photo

MUSCAT: Omanis are being trained to conduct research in a bid to find solutions to the country’s scarcity of fresh water.

The lack of fresh water has triggered a cause for concern in the Middle East, where solutions to providing clean, reusable water to supply the population’s daily needs have been proposed and studied.

Chaired by Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Middle East Desalination Research Center (MEDRC) offers a hub where experts cooperate to find solutions to seeking out fresh water by supporting research, training, knowledge exchanges and capacity building.

It also serves as a viable and transferable model for governments seeking a mechanism to

Regional Trade Policy Course begins at SQU MUSCAT: A course aimed at capacity building in Arab countries, to better understand the rules and regulations of the WTO and to implement WTO agreements in the respective countries, began at the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) yesterday. The course will continue until December 10.

Twenty-three international trade experts from 11 countries in the region are participating in the second Regional Trade Policy Course (RTPC) for the Arab and Middle-East region, organised jointly by the SQU and the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Secretariat.

Desalination

tariqh@timesofoman.com

SECOND EDITION

Times News Service

Middle East

TARIQ AL HAREMI

address the significant regional and trans-boundary environmental issues.

“Since 1996, MEDRC has supported 200 water research projects which involved bringing the best regional and global expertise together, along with regional researchers from 34 countries, to help find solutions to the challenge of scarce fresh water supplies in the region,” said Perla Abi Farah, Marketing and Communications Manager. MEDRC’s research programme is based on several research goals, which include reducing the cost of desalination, developing sustainable desalination technologies and maximising technology transfers, among others.

Training MEDRC also contributes to Omanisation through training programmes for students who wish

to enter the desalination industry, as well as for desalination employees who wish to strengthen their knowledge and expertise.

High-standard specialised training is offered to engineers, researchers, academics and professional technicians who work, or will be working, in desalination plants. The research centre provides students with a pilot desalination plant on site, laboratories and classrooms for theoretical work, in addition to solar plants for solar desalination, and a library containing over 300 published water research studies.

Riadh Dridi, Project and Training Manager said, “MEDRC’s Continued Professional Education & Training in Water programme starts at the initiation stage and provides a theoretical and practical understanding of reverse osmosis process operations carried out in its state of the art

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reverse osmosis pilot plant, the only one in Oman” Students will go through four days of training, where they will have to complete three levels of course work. Training can be done either on MEDRC’s premises or at the client site.

Development cooperation In collaboration with the Palestinian Water Authority, The Ministry of Water & Irrigation, Jordan and the Jordan Valley Authority, MEDRC’s development cooperation programme supports development and builds a capacity in Palestine and Jordan in the water sector.

“We know that water scarcity is a significant issue for Palestine and MEDRC works closely by funding Palestinian and Jordanian students to train either in MEDRC or workshops in countries such as Jordan, Palestine and Cyprus,” said Abi Farah.

Trade capacity building The course, organised as part of the WTO’s trade capacity building programme, is aimed at enhancing the human and institutional capacities of beneficiaries, allowing them to take full advantage of the rules-based multilateral trading system (MTS), to deal with emerging challenges and to enforce their rights and obligations.

Dr Hussain Boughanmi, WTO chairperson and academic coordinator of the WTO Regional

Trade Policy Course, said, “The course contains 16 modules covering the principles of WTO. The course also covers agriculture, services, tariff and non-tariff barriers for trade, rules of WTO regarding trade facilitation and trade negotiations. The programme also includes professional days during which the participants can visit local organisations dealing with international trade.”

Commitment As many as 21 resource persons from the WTO Secretariat, Geneva and four regional speakers will lead the training course.

SQU hosts the WTO Chair and eight-week Regional Trade Policy Course in recognition of the university’s commitment and leadership to educate generations of leaders in Oman and in the Arab region.

The WTO Chair programme aims at supporting academic institutions from developing countries in curriculum development, teaching, research and outreach activities. SQU is one of the seven WTO Chairs awarded in 2014 through a highly competitive selection process involving 77 academic institutions.

CAPACITY BUILDING: The course commenced at SQU yesterday

and will continue until December 10. – Supplied photo

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TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

OMAN

The cutting edge designs will blend nautical influences with luxury Omani references to bring “yacht living” to Barr Al Jissah Firas Matraji, CEO of Barr Al Jissah

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PROPERTY DREAM STARTS TAKING SHAPE

VIDEO

Saraya Bandar Jissah, the multi-million rial property dream, is taking its shape. A stunning footage of the construction work captured by a drone has been released. — Supplied photo

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N .C O M

NATIONAL PRIDE: The 2nd Shabab Oman Vessel has been built as

per the world-class standards to be among the best sailing boats in the world. -ONA

Shabab Oman sets sail on journey of peace, friendship AL MUSANA’AH: In response to the Royal Orders of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, “Shabab Oman’ second vessel sailed from here on Monday towards the GCC ports, in its first journey titled Cooperation Sail 2015.

An official farewell ceremony was held at Said bin Sultan Navy Base, under the auspices of Rear Admiral Abdullah bin Khamis Al Raisi, Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman, in the presence of a number of senior SAF officers and invitees.

After delivering his speech, the Commander of the Royal Navy of

Oman, senior officers and invitees boarded the vessel and paid farewell to its crew.

He was also briefed on the route of the journey and the destinations it will have.

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, ordered the building of the ‘2nd Shabab Oman Vessel’ to continue the journey of the 1st Shabab Oman vessel, which has many achievements to its credit for the Omani marine history, enhanced communication and friendship with neighbouring countries, and promoted the Omani marine’s presence at different international forums. -ONA

B U S I N E S S AWA R D

Barr Al Jissah teams up with UK yacht maker Barr Al Jissah is creating limited edition town homes starting from OMR700,000. To

PACP gets top award

create cutting-

MUSCAT: Public Authority for Consumer Protection (PACP) was crowned with World Confederation of Business Award the Bizz 2015, at a ceremony in Muscat, on the occasion of the 11th anniversary of the instituting of this award.

the developer has

The PACP was selected to be honoured at the event as one of the best institutions in the Sultanate and the only government institution for its proficiency in the services provided to the beneficiaries.

-ONA

edge interiors,

partnered with famed yacht maker Bannenberg & Rowell of London

Times News Service MUSCAT: A company best known for creating beauty at sea is coming ashore to team up with a luxury development in Oman.

Barr Al Jissah is creating a collection of limited edition town homes starting from OMR700,000 and to create cutting-edge interiors, the developer has partnered with famed yacht maker Bannenberg & Rowell of London.

Speaking to Times of Oman, Firas Matraji, CEO of Barr Al Jissah, said that these four-bedroom

PREMIUM HOMES: Potential buyers can register their interest through Barr Al Jissah website or can contact their sales suite on site. –Supplied photo

townhomes, all with en-suite bathrooms, will offer unparalleled views across the Sea of Oman as well as featuring light and open spaces.

“The cutting edge designs will blend nautical influences with luxury Omani references to bring “yacht living” to Barr Al Jissah,” he said on Monday.

Potential buyers can register their interest through Barr Al Jissah website or can contact their sales suite on site. “Depending on the area, location and furniture requirements, the limited edition homes will start from OMR700,000. The construction of the homes has already been started and the first phase of the sales will be launched in Novem-

ber,” the CEO said. Regarding choosing Bannenberg & Rowell, the CEO said that Bannenberg & Rowell is one of the most famous names in yacht design.

“The synergy between the sea and lifestyle at Barr Al Jissah is clear. It is incredibly important for us to stay true to our historical heritage and geographical location, and this partnership allows us to intertwine elements of the yachting lifestyle into the homes drawing on Bannenberg & Rowell’s extensive experience in contemporary yachting design; while at the same time creating something truly outstanding and unique for our buyers from all over the world,” he said.

In a statement, Dickie Ban-

NAT I O NA L P R I D E

BUDGET PLAN

Shell Oman launches #MyOman45 contest to mark National Day Times News Service MUSCAT: Shell Oman announced a month-long #MyOman45 contest to be held on the various social media platforms.

“The Sultanate of Oman is gearing up to celebrate the 45th National Day, which will give the citizens and residents of the Sultanate an opportunity to express their pride and love for the nation and its great leader His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

Shell Oman is also taking part in this momentous occasion for the entire nation, under the theme #MyOman45, according to a press statement.

The Shell Oman celebrations were launched at City Centre Muscat, under the auspices of Ali bin Khalfan Al Jabri, undersecretary of Ministry of Information in the presence of Adil Al Raisi, managing director of Shell Oman Marketing Company.

As part of the programme, Shell Oman announced a monthlong #MyOman45 contest to be held on the various social media platforms.

To join the contest all one has to do is take a picture that repre-

nenberg of Bannenberg & Rowell said: “We are incredibly excited to be involved with this project, spearheading the emerging trend of yacht designers moving to landbased developments. With its breathtaking location and story, the synergy between the sea and the lifestyle at Barr Al Jissah is clear, and it is our job to weave in elements of the yachting lifestyle and design iconography into the homes to evoke a sense of ‘yacht living’ and the idea of space, privacy and glamour.”

Residents can benefit from lifestyle amenities provided by the Shangri-La hotel located within the destination, as well as enjoy luxury concierge and transportation services and marina facilities.

NATIONAL PRIDE: Shell Oman celebrations were launched at

City Centre Muscat, under the auspices of Ali bin Khalfan Al Jabri, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Information. -Supplied photo

sents #MyOman45 and submit it on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag. The winners will be selected through a draw and 45 people will get to win a fuel card worth OMR45 each from Shell Oman.

One of the ways to do this would be to visit a participating Shell Service Station, get a #MyOman45 car sticker and post a selfie with it. Participants can also take a picture at the ‘selfie’

walls placed at City Centre Muscat and Shell stations in Sarooj, North Azaiba (18th Nov. Street), Azaiba (Sultan Qaboos Street.), Al Amerat, Al Hail South and Darsait. In addition, you can also take a photo that symbolises National Day celebrations and upload it online with #MyOman45 hashtag.

The contest, started from October 18 and would end on November 17.

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Oman’s revenue

For instance, the entire industrial infrastructure facility is provided by the government in Oman.

The Sultanate’s total revenue was down by 36.3 per cent to OMR5.953 billion, whereas total public expenditure edged down by 3.2 per cent to OMR7.835 billion during the eight-month period under review.

On the expenditure side, Bataineh said the authorities would not be able to cut current expenditures much since 90 per cent of this expenditure is for paying salaries of government employees. Besides, the authorities can reassess the real economic benefit of some of the projects to take a decision on cutting capital expenditure. Oman’s 2015 budget plan envisages government expenditure of OMR14.1 billion and a deficit of OMR2.5 billion.

B L O O D D O NAT I O N

< FROM

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Service to Oman

The group also maintains two dedicated numbers (96094365 and 96277364) and people can send Whatsapp messages to these numbers if they are seeking blood.

“It’s a service we do for Oman, which provides us an opportunity to work and to earn our bread and butter,” Kabeer added.

T U E S DAY, O CTO B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5

REGION

Hopefully before the end of this year certainly we would have the implementation day.

Abbas Araqchi, Iran’s nuclear negotiator

Israelis kill Eritrean in bus station attack The wounded Eritrean migrant was mistaken for a gunman

OCCUPIED JERUSALEM: An Eritrean migrant, shot by a security guard and kicked by an angry Israeli crowd that mistook him for a gunman, was identified on Monday as one of the dead from an attack on a bus station in the southern city of Beersheba.

The Eritrean agricultural worker was named by his employer as Mila Abtum. In what some Israeli media described as a lynching, captured on amateur video on Sunday, the attack on Abtum underscored a mounting sense of panic and anger over a wave of Palestinian attacks that shows no sign of abating.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose right-wing government has deployed soldiers to reinforce municipal police and encouraged Israeli civilians with gun licenses to go about armed, warned against vigilantism.

“We’ve a country of law. No one will take the law into his own hands,” he told his party’s lawmakers in broadcast remarks.

Bloodshed The almost three weeks of violence has killed 41 Palestinians, including assailants and demonstrators at anti-Israeli protests, eight Israelis and now one Eritrean. It was set off in part by Palestinians’ anger over what they see as increased Jewish encroachment on occupied Jerusalem’s Al Aqsa mosque complex.

US Secretary of State John Kerry, due to hold separate meet-

INNOCENT VICTIM: A wounded Eritrean man who later died of his wounds, is evacuated at the main bus station in the southern Israeli city of Beersheva late Sunday, after he was mistakenly shot by an Israeli security guard and beaten by a mob during an attack in the Israeli city of Beersheba. – AFP

lic ceremony. In the most recent incident, an attacker who police said was a Bedouin citizen of Israel entered the heavily guarded station armed with a pistol on Sunday and shot dead a soldier before snatching his rifle and opening fire on the crowd, wounding nine people. Police shot the assailant dead, and initially reported there had been a second gunman. On Monday, they said there had been no other attacker and an investigation had been opened into the Eritrean man’s death.

Amateur video showed a security guard shooting the Eritrean.

Lying on the ground bleeding, and with armed paramilitary police surrounding him in an apparent effort to protect him, he was kicked in the head several times by people who slipped through the loose cordon. Nitza Neuman-

NUCLEAR AGREEMENT

Iran deal to be implemented by year-end, says Araqchi VIENNA: Iran’s nuclear negotiator Abbas Araqchi said on Monday he expected a deal with six world powers on shrinking Tehran’s atomic programme in exchange for sanctions relief to be implemented by year-end.

“Hopefully before the end of this year certainly we would have the implementation day,” Araqchi told reporters after meeting senior officials from the United States, Russia, China, Britain, Germany and France in Vienna.

The US and the European Union took formal legal steps on Sunday that will lift sanctions once Iran meets certain conditions such as reducing the number of centrifuges used to enrich uranium, and its enriched urani-

PERFORMANCE

New body to improve Saudi agencies work RIYADH: Hit by falling oil prices, Saudi Arabia has set up a new body that aims to improve the efficiency of government agencies.

The National Centre for Measuring the Performance of Government Agencies, which replaces an earlier oversight department appears to be part of a wider drive by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia to cut wastage in government.

The kingdom faces a budget deficit that economists estimate could total $120 billion or more this year. This has led the Finance Ministry to close its national accounts a month early to control spending.

Cabinet statement The new body was announced on Monday in a cabinet statement that also said a new committee had been set up to oversee real estate policy.

It added that plans to tax unused land were being sent to the advisory

ings this week with Israeli and Palestinian leaders, said on Monday it was vital they clarify the status around the compound.

Netanyahu has said he seeks no change to the decades-old status quo. He says religious incitement, speeded by social media, has fuelled the bloodshed. “What we see here is a combination of extremist and the Internet,” he said at the Likud party meeting. In a bid to stem the most serious Palestinian attacks on its streets since an uprising a decade ago, Israel has poured hundreds of troops into its cities and set up roadblocks in Palestinian neighbourhoods of occupied East Jerusalem.

In Gaza, Fathy Hamad, a Hamas leader, praised Palestinians who carried out attacks. “This Intifada (uprising) will not stop, this war will not stop,” he said at a pub-

um stockpile. Germany’s foreign minister said the EU sanctions were likely to remain in place at least until January.

When asked whether Iran had started mothballing centrifuges, Araqchi said the process had not begun yet.

“We need an order by the president to the Iranian Atomic Energy Organisation to start the job.

That would be done after some preparations that we still need to do in the coming days. So it would soon start,” Araqchi said.

Sunday’s moves have no immediate effect but cement a process that began with the deal reached in July to end sanctions against Iran once it shrinks its nuclear programme. In July Iran also

agreed to reduce its stockpile of low-enriched uranium (LEU) to 300kg of 3.67-per cent fissile purification for 15 years.

Weapons grade uranium must be enriched to around 90 per cent fissile purity. Iran’s stockpile of uranium enriched to under 5 per cent purity stood at 7,845.4 kg, according to the UN nuclear watchdog report.

Iran could dilute the excess LEU or sell it abroad in exchange for natural uranium.

“We are on schedule and we think we can do this business instead of diluting. We can do the business and receive natural uranium in return for selling our enriched uranium to outside,” Araqchi said. — Reuters

A7

Heiman, Deputy Director General of Soroka Medical Center, told Army Radio the Eritrean died of gunshot wounds and the injuries he sustained from the kicks.

Sagi Malachi, his employer, described Abtum as a quiet, modest man who had travelled to Beersheba to renew his visa. “The country is in a state of chaos.

Civilians are confused, people are taking the law into their own hands,” Malachi said on the radio.

Israeli police erected a 10-metre (33-ft)-long concrete barrier on Sunday on a street that borders the occupied East Jerusalem Palestinian neighourhood of Jabel Mukabar and an adjacent Jewish neighborhood, calling it a temporary precaution to prevent rocks and petrol bombs from being thrown at the Jewish dwellings. — Reuters

Shura council for review, a sensitive subject in a country with a housing shortage. After taking power in January, King Salman abolished several governing councils that rarely met and replaced them with two super committees, one on the economy and another on security.

These have become the engines of Riyadh policy making.

The new performance centre will be governed by a council headed by the Deputy Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman and Economy & Planning Minister Adel Fakieh and former Capital Markets Authority chairman Mohammed Al Al Sheikh.

Prince Mohammed is also Saudi defence minister and head of the super committee on the economy.

His new role heading the performance body could give him a degree of oversight across all government departments.

Last week, the cabinet agreed to set up a new jobs commission, also under his super committee. — Reuters

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TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015 In the light of the changed situation, (our advice is) Jaitley, who is a senior advocate, will not to embark on a path of confrontation...not healthy for democracy Anand Sharma, Congress spokesperson

INDIA B I L AT E R A L R E L AT I O N S

India wants to see united, inclusive, stable Nepal: Modi NEW DELHI: Amid an unease in the bilateral relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday made it clear to Nepal that India’s only desire is to see the neighbouring country united, inclusive, stable and prosperous, as he met its Deputy Prime Minister Kamal Thapa here.

Conveying his best wishes to the new government that took over in Kathmandu about a week back, Modi underlined that India is committed to strengthening the traditional bonds of friendship and kinship with the people of Nepal.

Thapa, who holds the portfolio of Foreign Affairs, briefed Modi about developments in Nepal which has been witnessing a turmoil in southern parts inhabited

by Indian-origin people ever since

the country adopted a new Constitution nearly a month back.

“Prime Minister reiterated that India’s only desire is to see a united, inclusive, stable and prosperous Nepal, and that India is committed to strengthening the traditional bonds of friendship and kinship with the people of Nepal,” a PMO statement said.

Modi congratulated Thapa on assuming charge as the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Nepal.

The relations between India and Nepal are uneasy since the agitation by Indian-origin people in southern parts of Nepal like Terai, which has hit supplies of essential commodities to that country from here.

External Affairs Minister Sush-

ma Swaraj told the visiting minister that India was looking forward to steps being taken by Nepalese government to “credibly” address the challenges faced by the country including in the Terai region at the earliest.

Swaraj also told Thapa that whenever the disruptions, or protests on the Nepalese side have slightly eased India has tried to send supplies across the border and five to six border crossing have been consistently in use but the worst affected entry point has been Rauxul and Birganj, which has been blocked by the agitators.

Indian truckers and other vendors have also expressed fears about their safety, she told Thapa, who is also the coordinator of a three-member team formed by the

Nepal government to hold talks with Indian authorities to end blockade of key trade points by Indian-origin Madhesi people who are opposed to splitting the country into seven provinces.

During more than two-hourlong talks, Thapa, also the Foreign Minister, informed Swaraj about the reconciliation efforts being made by new Nepal government to settle outstanding differences through dialogue and ensuring broad-based ownership of the Constitution.

Thapa’s remarks came in the backdrop of Nepalese Prime Minister K. P. Oli’s assurance to address the concerns of Indianorigin Madheshi population about delimitation of constituencies and representation. - PTI

WARM GREETINGS: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Nepal’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Kamal Thapa during a meeting in New Delhi on Monday. - PTI

BJP committed to existing reservation policy: Shah BJP president Amit Shah accused Nitish and Lalu of trying to turn Bihar assembly elections into a battle between backward castes and upper castes and added that the BJP has ‘made a poor man’s son the prime minister’

PATNA: With BJP facing sustained attack from RJD chief Lalu Prasad and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over reservation issue, its chief Amit Shah on Monday said BJP was “committed” to the existing quota for the Other Backward Castes(OBC) and Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes.

“BJP does not favour any change in the reservation policy, rather it supports the existing quota policy. We are committed to keeping inviolable these constitutional rights given to the dalit, tribals, backwards and others,” he told reporters in reply to questions on the controversy stoked

by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s remarks last month calling for review of the reservation policy.

Secular Alliance leaders, Prasad and Kumar, have latched on to Bhagwat’s ‘review quota policy’ demand, telling the sizable backward and dalit communities during Assembly election campaigning that BJP will review or scrap

PARLEYS: BJP national president Amit Shah with LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan and HAM(S) chief

Jitan Ram Manjhi, at NDA meeting in Patna on Sunday night. - PTI

27% candidates in third phase have criminal cases NEW DELHI: Around 27 per cent of candidates in the third phase of Bihar polls have a criminal record, a report by a think tank said on Monday.

According to the Association for Democratic Reform (ADR) and National Election Watch (NEW), of the 808 candidates, 215, or 27 per cent, have declared criminal cases against them.

Of these, 162, or 20 per cent, have declared serious criminal

the policy. Under attack on the issue, Shah clarified that he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have repeatedly said the existing quota policy was there to stay and the BJP has no intention to fiddle

cases, including cases related to murder, attempt to murder, communal disharmony, kidnapping, and crimes against women.

The report said that at least 31 candidates have declared cases related to murder.

In their respective affidavits, Ajay Kumar, an independent candidate from Kumhrarh constituency, has declared eight charges related to murder, while Rajeev Ranjan

with it in whatsoever manner.

Shah even went as far to outrightly deny that the RSS chief had ever demanded review of reservation policy.

He accused Kumar and Yadav of

Singh of the Samras Samaj Party from Digha constituency has declared seven charges related to murder.

Pradeep Kumar of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) from Dumraon constituency and Anant Kumar Singh, an independent candidate from Mokama constituency, have each declared five charges related to murder against them.

Voting for the third phase is scheduled for October 28. - IANS

trying to turn Bihar Assembly election into a battle between backward castes and upper castes and added that BJP has “made a poor man’s son the prime minister”.

On several writers returning

Sahitya Academy awards or resigning from its posts to protest against the “atmosphere of intolerance” in the country, Shah said BJP has no role in either the Dadri lynching incident in Uttar Pradesh or rationalist writer M. M. Kulburgi’s murder in Karnataka.

Both the incidents took place in states not ruled by the BJP, he said adding Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka are being ruled by Samajwadi Party and Congress respectively.

Shah said it was for the respective state governments to deal with it as law and order is a state subject. If the writers have been returning awards, the onus lies on Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka governments, he said.

On silence of top BJP leaders on the Dadri incident, the BJP president referred to the prime minister’s rally in Nawada last week where he himself has spoken on the matter.

Lashing out at leaders of Nitish-led alliance for harping on controversial issues like beef and reservation, he alleged leaders like Prasad were seeking votes on casteist and communal issues and not on development agenda.

“Prasad should remember that it is not 1990, but 2015. A lot of water has flown in the Ganga over the past 25 years,” the BJP national president said.

NDA’s bid to make development the central issue in Bihar polls will not be allowed to be derailed, he said, adding people were being misled on sensitive and divisive issues by adversaries.

“We are seeking votes for the BJP-led coalition in the state so that the the next state government should function in tandem with the Centre and take forward development works to the logical end,” he said.

The NDA is projected to win 3234 seats out of 49 in the first phase of polling and 22-24 seats out of 32 seats in the second, he said.- PTI

JUDGE’S APPOINTMENT

Congress attacks Jaitley for his remarks on NJAC Act NEW DELHI: Congress on Monday launched a fresh attack on Indian Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for his remarks on NJAC Act, warning the government against embarking on a path of confrontation with the judiciary on the issue.

Party’s senior spokesperson Anand Sharma dubbed as “unfortunate and deplorable” Jaitley’s unusually strong remarks against the Supreme Court’s reasoning for striking down the NJAC Act. He told reporters that it was “very wrong” for Jaitley to say that judiciary acted like “third chamber of the legislature” while quashing the Act to establish the National Judicial Appointment Commission (NJAC) for appointment of judges. Claiming that in the last 16 months since the advent of the Narendra Modi dispensation there has been “systematic assault on the autonomy of institutions and rewriting of rules,” he said, there were “concerns” about Constitutional guarantees and funadmental rights of citizens.

“In the light of the changed situation, (our advice is) Jaitley, who is a senior advocate, will not to embark on a path of confrontation...not healthy for democracy,” he said.

Focus “Instead of insulting highest judiciary, he should focus more on his responsibility as India’s Finance Minister as economy is in a very sad state. It is a stuttering economy marked by rising debts and fall in exports for last 10 months.”

Besides, he told the government that the apex court has assured Parliament and the political leadership that their concerns on the collegium system will be heard with a view to bring reforms and transparency.

Jaitley had faulted the Supreme Court verdict on Sunday for re-legislating collegium system. - PTI

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT STUDY

Cultural governance binds Indian diamond industry AHMEDABAD: Cultural governance has helped the Indian diamond industry to succeed in shifting the global landscape of diamond business, says a study by Indian Institute of Management here.

Praising India’s diamond industry for being highly organised, it says the sector has its unique cultural governance, where the smaller cutting and polishing diamonds’units have been flourishing like a “close-knit community”.

Despite little formal education, professionalism exists where verbal commitments are honoured and met, and a high order of integrity is exhibited, it said.

The study takes example of Surat-India’s Antwerp, as 11 out of every 12 diamonds set in the jewellery worldwide are polished in this city of Gujarat.

Surat manufactures 95 per cent of all the diamonds processed in the world where rough diamonds are procured from the countries like Russia, Canada, South Africa, Botswana and Australia by the Indian entrepreneurs.

“The firms in the Indian diamond industry are embedded in the so-called unorganised sector...

ENGROSSED: Craftsmen work at the polishing department of a diamond processing unit in Surat in

Gujarat, on August 31, 2015. - Reuters

the results of a survey interestingly suggest that they are in fact highly organised,” said the study done by K. Indu Rao, Officer on Special Duty in Gujarat Technological University (GTU) and Visiting Research Scholar, University of Twente of Netherlands, for Research and Publications Committee of IIMA.

“In the Indian diamond industry, instead of using some documented strategies, structure and practices, the organising occurs through cultural governance.

Close-knit community In such case, members in the diamond industry align their values and beliefs in order to arrive to a

common understanding of the way of doing things in their business and organisation,” the study said.

“We found that the informal sector firms are not just local firms but also have global reach. They acquire diamond rough from global sources, and supply the finished diamonds to the global diamond industry,” it said.

“These informal sector firms, which have made it big on the global front, have flourished like a close-knit community. They have accomplished it through a cultural governance where culture governs business practices,” it said.

The industry culture in the Indian diamond cutting and polishing business helps align the small, medium and large firms into a network, it said.

“Cultural Governance has helped the Indian diamond industry and firms engaged in diamond cutting and polishing diamonds (CPD) business succeed in shifting the global landscape of diamond business. The global hub of diamond manufacturing has thus moved from Antwerp to Surat,” it said.

‘Within this community, large sized firms have led this CPD community at the forefront. As the volume of their business increases, they pass on (sub-contract) business to others smaller firms within to the same community,” it said.

“This sub-contracting is not a formal process. There are no formal contracts or processes. Instead it relies on existing clan relationships where the leading firm

passes on work to people that they already know and trust,” it said.

Values of simplicity, sincerity to work, diligence, loyalty and discipline were observed in all CPD firms in the industry, down the line from the large, to medium, and small sized CPD units, said the study.

“In the broader context of Indian diamond industry, there is lack of formal systems like: documentation of the diamond packets exchanged or sub-contracted: of the financial transactions between parties in the industry; or that of the recording of employee details or number of units worked on,” said the study.

“However, these firms made them feel proud of their ability to conduct a business of global dimensions based primarily on mutual trust within their community,” it added.

Another interesting observation that emerged out of the study is that the workers and artisans learned the art of cutting and polishing a diamond in the smaller units and then they started their own CPD unit and employed others known to them through personal references. - PTI

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INDIA

Parties slam Sena’s protest at BCCI office An unfazed Shiv Sena, however, justified the protest claiming they were only reflecting the feelings of the people of this country as they were opposed to any relations with Pakistan till they stop terrorist activities

MUMBAI/NEW DELHI: The storming of BCCI headquarters in Mumbai by protesting Shiv Sena workers over the issue of resumption of cricket ties with Pakistan on Monday sparked condemnation with ally BJP saying there is no place for “hooliganism” while Congress called it “abominable”.

An unfazed Shiv Sena, a rightwing Hindu outfit, however, justified the protest that came close on the heels of Ghulam Ali and Sudheendra Kulkarni episodes, claiming they were only reflecting the feelings of the people of this country as they were opposed to any relations with Pakistan till they stop terrorist activities.

OUT ON BAIL: Shiv Sena workers come out from the court after getting bail. They had allegedly

stormed BCCI office protesting against Indo-Pak cricket meet in Mumbai on Monday. - PTI

“We are a democratic nation and every one has the right to protest on any issue in a democratic manner. But there is a difference between a democratic way and hoologanism. No one accepts such kind of protest,” Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said.

‘Mobocracy’ Congress leader Manish Tewari described the incident as “abominable” and said law and order had completely “broken down” in Maharashtra, and Mumbai has been reduced to a “mobocracy”, citing a spate of recent incidents, including the cancellation of ghazal singer Ghulam Ali’s show due to Sena’s protests.

“It is extremely unfortunate...

This is extremely abominable. Law and order has completely broken

down in Maharashtra. The President of India should take cognisance of this,” he said.

NCP leader Rahul Narvekar said Sena has been involved in such activities since very long.

“This is not how you express your resentment to a particular thought. You adopt constitutional measures which are available with you,” he said.

Questioning Shiv Sena, the NCP leader said, “When you are a part of an alliance, is it justified? You have to uphold the Constitution.

What are you doing...If we talk about the recent examples, they were unconstitutional.”

Justifying the protest by party workers, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut said, “We have not committed any crime by protesting. We are opposing Pakistan and our stand

against them is nothing new.This is not a political protest. We are only doing what is the feeling of the people of this country, because feelings of people are important to us.”

“The people of the nation do not want any relations with Pakistan till they stop terrorist activities and hatching conspiracies against India. There will be no cricket, cultural and political relations with them until they stop doing it,” Raut said.

The Rajya Sabha MP asserted that the Sena will not compromise on its stand and asked ally BJP to support it on the issue.

“If anyone tries to build relations with Pakistan through the medium of cricket, we will not let that happen and will not compromise on our stand. The BJP now needs to come forward and support us on this issue,” Raut said.- PTI

M Y S T E R I OU S D E AT H

CBI searches nine locations in Sheena Bora murder case NEW DELHI: CBI on Monday carried out searches at nine locations in five cities at the premises of former media magnet Peter Mukherjea and his wife Indrani in connection with the Sheena Bora murder case.

CBI sources said that agency teams swooped down at the residences of Peter and Indrani, two each in Mumbai and Goa, Indrani’s ancestral home in Guwahati,

her driver Shyamvar Pinturam Rai’s houses in Mumbai and Chindwara, Madhya Pradesh and the residence of Sanjeev Khanna in Kolkata. Twenty-five-year-old Sheena, Indrani’s daughter from her first marriage, was murdered on 24 April, 2012, and her body was burnt and disposed off in a forest in Raigad district in Maharashtra the next day.

The agency has filed the case

under various sections of Indian Penal Code including criminal conspiracy, murder, abduction, destruction of evidence, causing hurt by giving poison and Arms Act. CBI took over the investigation of the case which was earlier probed by Mumbai Police on the allegations that the accused persons — Indrani, Khanna and Rai — hatched a criminal conspiracy to murder Sheena.

B E E F PA R T Y

Ink attack on J&K lawmaker Sheikh Rashid, two arrested NEW DELHI: A press conference by independent MLA from Indian-administered Kashmir Sheikh Abdul Rashid turned into an event of hooliganism with a handful of activists allegedly belonging to a right-wing organisation blackening his face with paint, ink and mobil oil protesting against his hosting a beef party in Srinagar earlier this month.

Within minutes of the incident, there was widespread condemnation pouring in from the state with Chief Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed saying that the “spate in unpleasant incidents” is “most disturbing” and former chief minister Omar Abdullah expressing concern saying that “this climate of intolerance and violence is very worrying.”

“Attack on Eng. Rashid is unacceptable & condemned in the strongest possible terms. This climate of intolerance & violence is very worrying,” Abdullah tweeted.

CPM MLA Mohd Yousuf Tarigami said the incident was “totally unacceptable”.

“It (incident) was totally unacceptable and violation of people’s fundamental right to speak freely. Where are we heading?,” he asked.

Attack on truck drivers Rashid had called the presser at Press Club here to brief media on the attack on two truck drivers by a mob at Udhampur in Jammu region, on October nine.

One of the victims — 19-year -old Zahid — died at Safdurjung hospital here on Sunday morning.

As he finished the press conference, Rashid, who is also known as ‘Engineer Rashid’, was held at the gate of the Press Club by some TV journalists for one-to-one interviews when some activists

PROTEST: Jammu and Kashmir MLA Sheikh Abdul Rashid’s face was blackened by few activists, allegedly belonging to a rightwing organisation, at Press Club in New Delhi on Monday. - PTI

shouting slogans “gow mata ka apman, nahi sahega Hindustan (India will not tolerate any disrespect to cow)” pounced on him and painted him with black colour, mobil oil and blue ink.

Some of the TV journalists as well as policemen also received colours on their faces as well as clothes while trying to save the MLA from the mob.

Two people were detained by the police and whisked away to Parliament Street Police station while Rashid had to take refuge inside the Press Club till additional forces came in.

“They are mentally sick. I want the whole world to see this how these people are trying to muzzle the voice of Kashmiris,” Rashid, who was beaten by BJP MLAs in the state assembly for hosting the beef party, said after the attack.

Later, Rashid was taken out of the Press Club by police personnel. He sat on dharna outside Jammu and Kashmir house in

Chanakyapuri, along with his few supporters, demanding to be allowed to go to the Prime Minister’s residence at Race Course Road.

Comments Monday’s incident came after Rashid had made comments at the press conference about the beef party organised by him inside the MLA hostel in Srinagar.

“I do not eat beef, mutton, or chicken but that was a form of protest to tell the authorities that do not interfere in anyone’s religion,” Rashid had explained to reporters during the press conference when he was asked about his violating the sentiments of the people.

He demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi apologise for the Udhampur incident.

“If the UP government can be held responsible for Dadri incident, then BJP is equally responsible for the Udhampur incident along with its ally PDP,” Rashid said. - PTI

A9

In pursuance of this conspiracy, the accused allegedly abducted Sheena, murdered her and disposed off her body, agency spokesperson had said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the judicial custody of Indrani, her former husband Sanjeev Khanna and driver Shyam Rai was on Monday extended by a local magistrate till October 31 in connection with the Sheena Bora murder case. - PTI

CONCERNED

Pranab: Is tolerance and acceptance of dissent on the wane?

BIRBHUM: Amidst a wave of rising intolerance, President Pranab Mukherjee on Monday expressed serious apprehensions over whether tolerance and acceptance of dissent are on the wane in the country.

“Humanism and pluralism should not be abandoned under any circumstance. Assimilation through receiving is a characteristic of Indian society. Our collective strength must be harnessed to resist evil powers in society,” Pranab said.

Addressing a gathering organised by Nayaprajanma, a local weekly newspaper here, he expressed apprehension about “whether tolerance and acceptance of dissent are on the wane?”

He reminded the audience of the teachings of Ramakrishna Paramhansa ‘Jato Mat Tato Path’ “As there are a number of beliefs, there are a number of ways”.

“Indian civilisation has survived for 5,000 years because of its tolerance. It has always accepted dissent and differences.

“A large number of languages, 1,600 dialects and seven religions coexist in India. We have a Constitution that accommodates all these differences,” Pranab said.

The President’s strong words on the need to maintain pluralism and dissent in the society come against the backdrop of series of hate incidents including in Mumbai where BJP ally Shiv Sena forced cancellation of a music concert by Pakistani legend Ghulam Ali and talks between Indian and Pakistani cricket board

PRESIDENT’S REMINDER:

President Pranab Mukherjee with West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi after his arrival at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, in Kolkata on Monday. - PTI

Chiefs and blackened the face of Sudheendra Kulkarni.

Less than a fortnight ago against the backdrop of Dadri lynching, the president made a strong appeal for maintaining the core civilisational values of diversity, tolerance and plurality have kept India united for centuries which he said cannot be wasted.

The President’s strong condemnation came on a day when an independent MLA from Jammu and Kashmir Sheikh Abdul Rashid was the target of a fringe Hindu outfit which threw ink and mobil oil on him at the Press Club in Delhi protesting against the beef party he held in Srinagar earlier this month.

Greeting people on the eve of Durga Puja celebrations, Pranab expressed the hope that “Mahamaya - the combination of all positive forces would eliminate the Asuras or divisive forces.” - PTI

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TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

PAKISTAN SECURITY ISSUES

CATCH OF THE DAY

500 pilgrims stopped in Quetta on way to Iran

Fishermen are silhouetted by the sunset as they carry their catch of the day while heading home along Clifton beach in Karachi, Pakistan, on Monday. — Reuters

QUETTA: Five hundred people who wished to travel to Iran for a pilgrimage were stopped in Quetta on Saturday.

Security officials advised the intending pilgrims against moving out of the provincial capital of Balochistan for their own security.

Around 10 buses carrying the 500 pilgrims were all set to depart for the border town of Taftan en route to Iran’s Mirjaveh town and onwards, but security officials stopped the vehicles at the bus terminal.

No-objection certificate A security official said that keeping in view the earlier attacks on pilgrims, it had been decided that no pilgrim would be allowed to go on pilgrimage without obtaining a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the provincial home department.

“If they get an NOC, we shall provide them security and escort them to Taftan.”

Quetta Assistant Commissioner Tariq Mengal said: “We had an agreement with Zaireen that from Muharram 1 to 13 no one will move out of Quetta without an NOC.” He said the pilgrims were being sent back to Karachi due to security concerns. — Express Tribune

Zardari terms parliament a ‘shield against dictatorship’ The former president paid glowing

The party pledges to continue Benazir’s mission to banish extremism and root out dictatorship in all its forms and manifestations

tributes to those who lost their lives when welcoming the party’s former chairperson Benazir Bhutto upon her return from an eightyear self-exile

Asif Ali Zardari

Pakistan People’s Party co-chairman

KARACHI/ISLAMABAD: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari saluted the slain victims of the October 2007 Karsaz blasts at a ceremony on Sunday as the party’s co-chairperson, Asif Ali Zardari, vowed not to allow anyone to undermine parliament.

In a statement issued on the eighth anniversary of the tragic bombing which had left more than 150 PPP workers dead, the PPP co-chairperson and former presi-

dent paid glowing tributes to those who lost their lives when welcoming the party’s former chairperson Benazir Bhutto upon her return from an eight-year self-exile.

Zardari said an important lesson of the democratic struggle was that dictatorship reared its ‘ugly head’ in different forms and in different manifestations at different times.

“A subtle and little noticed form

of threat to democracy is when institutions and individuals exceed their constitutional authority and trespass into the domain of other constitutional institutions,” he said, adding that one must be vigilant against the dictatorial mindset that seeks to drive from the rear seat.

“This tendency must be exposed and fought [against],” he said. The party, according to him,

“pledges to continue Benazir’s mission to banish extremism and root out dictatorship in all its forms and manifestations.”

The former president said parliament is a shield against dictatorship. “It must be strengthened, not undermined. The PPP will not allow anyone to undermine parliament. Let there be no doubt or mistake about it,” he said.

Zardari recalled that eight

years ago the battle lines were clearly drawn between forces of democracy and the militants and extremists. “Since then, the battle lines have sharpened. The battle must continue till it is won,” he said.

Slain workers PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto and his sisters – Bakhtawar and Aseefa – along with party workers gathered at the Karsaz monument in Karachi to pay homage to the slain PPP workers.

Sindh Information Minister Nisar Ahmed Khuhro said a reprt for the incident could not be lodged during the tenure of former military ruler General Pervez Musharraf despite court orders.

In her message on micro-blogging site Twitter, Aseefa Bhutto said: “Today we pay tribute to the martyrs who risked their lives to save our leader. We’ll never forget you.”

‘Protect my mother’ Her sister Bakhtawar also used social media to pay tribute to the Karsaz blast victims. “We pay tribute to our martyrs. To those who defined bravery. To those who ran towards the flames to protect my mother.

“To those whose sacrifice ensured her survival. May they never be forgotten.” — Express Tribune

MEGA PROJECT

‘Dire need to complete Kalabagh Dam’ LAHORE: The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Saturday stressed on the dire need to complete the Kalabagh Dam as swiftly as possible and requested the government to not fall under any pressure regarding the mega project.

The office bearers said that being an agrarian economy, Pakistan cannot afford to waste huge amounts of water resources which are fast depleting.

“Shortage of water has not only caused undue damage to the agriculture sector but the manufacturing sector as well.”

LCCI President Sheikh Muhammad Arshad said that the nation could not waste any more time therefore the government should pave way for the early construction of Kalabagh dam which is the only solution of water and electricity shortage.

Delay in construction He said that the economy is based on the agriculture sector which cannot survive without sufficient water resources. “We are already suffering from a delay in the construction of Kalabagh dam; any further snag would hit us hard.”

According to Arshad, the Kalabagh Dam issue had been under heavy political scrutiny therefore a consensus seemed difficult, however, the government would have to take a decision. — Express Tribune

SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME

Making Pakistan proud, student duo shines at CERN ISLAMABAD: With Pakistan becoming the first associate member of the European Organisation for Nuclear Research among Asian countries this year, young scientists from the country have already started to make their mark.

A graduate of the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) stood first at the summer internship programme at the research facility popularly known as CERN, among 45 young graduates from across the globe.

Similarly, a graduate of the Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) has made his mark with his exceptional theoretical and experimental skills at CERN. NUST graduate Azqa Nadeem was selected by a team for the CERN openlab summer student programme from a pool of about 1,600 applicants. In total, 40 students were selected.

Azqa was supposed to evaluate physical tokens for so-called multifactor authentication that is

Cooperation between Pakistan and CERN dates back to signing of an agreement in 1994. Later, Pakistan wished to be its associate member back in 2013, after which CERN sent its task force to gauge the country’s science and technology base and industrial capabilities in early 2014, and in December it was decided to approve the membership the process of logging into a computer system by using more than a password.

“Azqa has done a great job and succeeded in selecting one out of two methods and providing good arguments [as to] why the second method is insecure and should be

rejected,” said Dr Stefan Lüders, Cern computer security officer in an email to Hafeez Hoorani, director general of the National Centre for Physics.

Azqa got a proof-of-concept pilot system up and running and CERN is aiming at deploying

the final version during the next months. Her presentation was voted as the best presentation out of all summer student projects. “I am more than proud of this,” Luders stated in his email.

Azqa told The Express Tribune that it was indeed a matter of pride

for her to work with some of the world’s smartest people at Cern on problems that had yet to surface.

QAU graduate Muhammad Ansar Iqbal has an MSc in physics, and completed his MPhil under the supervision of Hoorani in experimental high energy physics.

He worked on compact muon solenoid (CMS) which is a general-purpose detector at the Large Hadron Collider. Iqbal said he was surprised to hear that one of the detectors of the collider was assembled in Pakistan.

“I was with the team to check the efficiency studies of those detectors through cosmic muon,” he said.

This year, there were eight summer students in the resistive plate chambers (RPC) at the facility.

An email from his supervisor, Anton Dimitrov, to Hoorani stated that “Iqbal was one of the really exceptional students who showed technical, theoretical and experimental skills which were

well above the average level.”

He also wrote that he would be glad if they could continue working with him remotely.

“He was very fast and efficient in problem solving. He performed brilliantly his task to compare RE4 Construction with Operation data,” Dimitrov wrote in the email.

Iqbal said there needs to be a multidisciplinary approach to learning especially when it came to sister subjects such as physics, computer science and engineering.

“This will help our prospects in the field of research,” he added.

Cooperation between Pakistan and CERN dates back to signing of an agreement in 1994. Later, Pakistan wished to be its associate member back in 2013, after which CERN sent its task force to gauge the country’s science and technology base and industrial capabilities in early 2014, and in December it was decided to approve the membership. — Express Tribune

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UNICEF in $2.8 million appeal for Philippine children hit by typhoon Officials fear the death toll may rise after the typhoon ripped across the main island of Luzon on Sunday leaving several remote towns and villages isolated due to flash floods and toppled trees and boulders blocking roads

MANILA: The United Nations children’s agency (UNICEF) on Monday launched a $2.8 million appeal to help children affected by a typhoon that tore across the northern Philippines over the weekend, forcing thousands from their homes.

At least nine people were killed as Typhoon Koppu brought torrential rain and strong winds, causing floods, landslides, power outages and damaged roads and bridges.

More than 65,000 people were evacuated from low-lying and landslide-prone areas, the country’s disaster agency said.

Officials fear the death toll may rise after the typhoon ripped across the main island of Luzon on Sunday leaving several remote towns and villages isolated due to flash floods and toppled trees and boulders blocking roads. Power was down in many areas, Reuters reported.

Epidemics UNICEF said more than 12,000 families were staying in evacuation centres and children may be particularly at risk.

“Children face risks from contaminated water sources, lack of food, epidemics such as cholera, hypothermia, diarrhoea and pneumonia,” UNICEF Philippines Representative Lotta Sylwander said.

“Typhoon Koppu’s slow moving

SUBMERGED: Residents push a tricycle on a flooded highway in Santa Rosa town, north of Manila on Monday, a day after typhoon Koppu hit Philippines. - AFP

path includes mountainous and hard-to-reach areas, and we are concerned about the wellbeing of all affected children,” she said.

Aid agency Save the Children estimated that more than 4.5 million children could be affected by the typhoon.

Restoring safe water supply for flooded areas is crucial to minimising health risks, along with nutrition aid including support for breastfeeding mothers and newborn children, UNICEF said.

Many schools were closed on Monday and the extent of damage to education facilities was not yet known.

T U R M O I L I N M A L AY S I A

ARTICLE, VIDEO, PHOTO GALLERY W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N .C O M

Most vulnerable “From our own experience responding to other storms in the Philippines we know that children are always the most vulnerable in a disaster,” said Save the Children’s country director in the Philippines, Ned Olney. “In the coming days we will determine what support they will need.”

The Philippines typically expe-

riences more than 20 typhoons per year.

In 2013, the devastating super typhoon Haiyan struck the central Philippines, killing more than 6,300 people and leaving millions homeless.

Hygiene, water kits Many international aid agencies have emergency supplies in place, such as tarpaulins, basic household items, hygiene and water kits to get to the survivors should the government require international assistance.

UNICEF said it had supplies for about 12,000 families, including

water purification tablets, hygiene kits, medicines, school supplies, food, tents and generators.

A assessment of the damage caused to plantations of bananas, coconuts, rice and corn in the worst affected areas, will establish the full extent of survivor’s livelihood needs.

“The rising floodwaters are the most immediate concern but beyond that many people will have to rebuild their livelihoods once the water recedes,” International Federation of the Red Cross spokeswoman Kate Marshall said by phone from Isabela province in the east of Luzon.

Marshall said evacuated villagers often rush back to their homes after disasters to salvage whatever may have survived the floods, which could expose them to mudslides and flash floods.

Rebuilding livelihoods Mike Bruce, spokesman for Plan International, said the typhoon had hit many poor communities that would struggle to rebuild their livelihoods without assistance.

“These communities were already quite vulnerable before the storm and it will be hard for them to rebuild their livelihoods,” he said. — Thomson Reuters Foundation

SPREADING TO NEW AREAS

Opposition plans motion against Razak this week KUALA LUMPUR: The chief of Malaysia’s newly-formed opposition alliance will submit a noconfidence motion in parliament this week against Prime Minister Najib Razak, the head of the grouping said on Monday.

Najib’s tight grip on his United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) party has kept him in power despite public anger over alleged graft and financial mismanagement at strategic investment fund 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB), whose advisory board the prime minister chairs.

But Najib’s grip appears to be loosening, and his position could become precarious if he loses some crucial upcoming votes in parliament.

“We will have a motion of no confidence against the Prime

SCAN THIS TO VISIT

Najib Razak

Minister, to be tabled by myself as opposition leader,” said Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, the wife of jailed opposition politician Anwar Ibrahim, and the head of the new Pakatan Harapan alliance.

“The rationale is that we have to save this country.” — Reuters

Southeast Asia set to suffer for months as Indonesia fails to contain wildfires JAKARTA: Indonesian forest fires that have caused choking smoke to drift across Southeast Asia are spreading to new areas and are unlikely to be put out until next year, experts said on Monday.

Indonesia has come under increased pressure from its neighbours to contain the annual “haze” crisis, which is caused by slash-and-burn agriculture practices, largely on Sumatra and Kalimantan.

But it has failed to put out the fires, with “hot spots” growing in eastern parts of the country and industry officials and analysts estimating the smoke will last until early 2016.

Reached Papua “Maybe it will last until December and January,” said Herry Purnomo, a scientist at the Center for International Forestry Research, adding that hot spots had reached Papua, a region that usu-

BLANKET OF HAZE: Vehicles drives along Muara Tembesi bridge as

haze shrouds in Jambi,on Friday. — Reuters/Wahdi Septiawan/Antara Foto

ally avoids widespread fires.

“It is because people are opening new agriculture areas, like palm oil,” he said.

A senior official at a company active in Indonesia’s forested ar-

eas said the haze could continue until March.

Indonesia usually enters its wet season in October and November, but this year the country is expected to face moderate El Nino dry

conditions which could strengthen until December and may hinder efforts to control the fires.

Indonesia’s national disaster management agency has made several forecasts for when the forest fires will be brought under control, many of which have now passed, but their latest target date is early November.

Indonesia has revoked the land licences of PT Mega Alam Sentosa and state-owned PT Dyera Hutan Lestari, Rasio Rido Sani, the director general for law enforcement at the forestry ministry, told reporters late on Monday. Both firms could not be reached for comment.

Last month, Indonesia ordered four companies to suspend operations for allegedly causing forest fires.

On the ground, NASA satellites detected 1,729 fire alerts across Indonesia on Wednesday, a national holiday, more than any single day in the last two years. — Reuters

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Russia transforms face of the Syrian battlefield

Location: Yiti/Photo: Rajesh Rajan

W

hile the world still rages on at Russia’s presumption in the Middle East – to intervene in Syria instead of letting the Americans decide which dictators should survive or die – we’ve all been forgetting the one institution in that Arab land which continues to function and protect the state which Moscow has decided to preserve: the Syrian army.

While Russia has been propagandising its missiles, the Syrian military, undermanned and undergunned a few months ago, has suddenly moved on to the offensive. Earlier this year, we may remember, this same army was being written off, the Bashar Al Assad government said to be reaching its final days. We employed our own army of clichés to make the case for regime change. The Syrian army was losing ground – at Jisr Al Shugour and at Palmyra – and so we predicted that the whole Assad state had reached a “tipping point”.

Then along came Vladimir Putin with his air and missile fleets and suddenly the whole place is transformed.

While we huffed and puffed that the Russians were bombing the “moderate” rebels – moderates who had earlier ceased to exist according to America’s top generals – we’ve been paying no attention to the military offensive which the Syrians themselves are now staging against the Nusra Front fighters around Aleppo and in the valley of the Orontes.

Syrian commanders are now setting the coordinates for almost every Russian air strike. They were originally giving between 200 and 400 coordinates a night. Now the figure sometimes reaches 800. Not that the Russians are going after every map reference, of course.

The Syrians have found that the Russians do not want to fire at targets in built-up areas; they intend to leave burning hospitals and dead wedding parties to the Americans in Afghanistan.

This policy could always change, of course.

No air force bombs countries without killing civilians. Nor without crossing other people’s frontiers.

But the Russians are now telling the Turks – and by logical extension, this information must go to the Americans – their flight coordinates.

Even more remarkable, they have set up a hotline communications system between their base on the Syrian Mediterranean coast and the Israeli ministry of defence in Tel Aviv.

More incredible still is that the Israelis have suddenly disappeared from the skies. In other words, the Russians are involved in a big operation, not a one-month wonder that is going on in Syria. And it is likely to continue for quite a time.

The Syrians were originally anxious to move back into Palmyra, captured by IS last May, but the Russians have demonstrated more interest in the Aleppo region, partly because they believe their coastal bases around Lattakia are vulnerable. The Nusra Front has fired several missiles towards Lattakia and Tartous and Moscow has no desire to have its air force targeted on the ground. But the Syrian army is now deploying its four major units – the 1st and 4th Divisions, Republican Guards and Special Forces – on the battle fronts and are moving closer to the Turkish border.

Russian air strikes around the IS “capital” of Raqqa may or may not be hurting IS, although the Syrians like to boast that they have plenty of intelligence coming to them from the city. Interesting, if true, because IS militants are specialists in torturing to death “agents of the regime” and it would be a brave man to pass on information to Damascus. Yet travellers’ tales can be true.

There’s a regular civilian bus route from Raqqa to Damascus – buses have an odd habit of crossing front lines in most civil wars – and if passengers prefer not to talk to journalists, they will talk of what they have seen when they get home.

All this is only the beginning of Putin’s adventure. He is proving to be quite a traveller to the Middle East – and has already made firm friends of another pillar of the region, that PresidentField Marshal who scored more than 96 per cent at the polls and who currently rules Egypt. But the Egyptian army, fighting its little war in Sinai, no longer has strategic experience of a major war. Nor do have others. But there is one factor which should not be overlooked. If it wins – and if it holds together and if its manpower, which is admittedly at a low level, can be maintained – then the Syrian military is going to come out of this current war as a ruthless, battle-trained and battle-hardened army. - The Independent

READERS’ FORUM Driving licence rules should be tough for all This refers to the news story, Driving licence rules for expats to be reviewed in Oman (October 19). The expatriates have a worrying news that the Royal Oman Police is considering tough rules for driving licence for expatriates. In my humble opinion, only the rules of the driving skills should be made tough for all and other existing rules should remain unchanged. However, the expatriates misusing their driving licences should be subjected to severe punishments.

— Mohammad Osama Rawat, Ruwi

The Chinese space programme, like those of many spacefaring nations (including the US), has close ties to its military, raising concerns about whether the leadership is really seeking “dualuse” technologies that might eventually find their way into weapons systems bit.ly/nasatalktochina

Lack of public transport system leads to need for driving licence Scan this QR code to send letters to the Readers’ Forum, containing not more than 200 words with full name, address and telephone number, may be sent by mail (Times of Oman, P.O. Box 770, P.C. 112, Ruwi).

This refers to the news story, Driving licence rules for expats to be reviewed in Oman (October 19). The actual problem is that there is no public transportation system because of which people need to get driving licences. The authorities should introduce a proper transport system in and around capital, which will reduce the rush to obtain the driving licences.

— Linu Suresh, Muscat

It’s a wishful thinking that Arsenal can beat Bayern This refers to the online story, Wenger confident of Arsenal upset against Bayern (October 17). It is a wishful thinking of Arsenal’s coach that his team can beat Bayern Munich. The German has more talented players and a much better track record. — Safdar Raheem, Muscat

CLIPPINGS FROM OUR ARCHIVES OCTOBER 2000 Workshop on trends in development communication MUSCAT: The Sultanate, represented by the Ministry of Social Affairs, Labour and Vocational Training, and the Ministry of Information, will participate in a workshop on modern trends in development communication. The workshop, organised by the Unicef bureau in MENA region, is aimed to famialise the participants with how to implement active projects and innovate methods in developmental communications.

PICTOGRAPH

OMAN NON-OIL EXPORTS April-June, 2015

April

June

118.0

100.3

72.8

TODAY IN HISTORY

May

64.2 59.0

74.7 61.1

72.2 66.3

NEW INDIA ASSURANCE

Other products Mineral products

59.0 Base metal and articles

58.9

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New India offers a wide range of HEALTH INSURANCE COVERS to you/family/ employee.

Chemical products

1805: Austrian general Karl Mac surrenders to Napoleon’s army at the battle of Ulm. 27.5

1870: The Summer Palace in Beijing, China, is burnt to the ground by a Franco-British expeditionary force.

26.4 20.8

Plastic and rubber products

1941: German troops reach the approaches to Moscow.

0

www.newindiaoman.com

2011: In the Libyan civil war, rebels capture deposed Muammar Gaddafi in his hometown of Sirte, killing him soon afterward.

Source National Centre for Statistics & Information

T U E S DAY, O CTO B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5 Groups of migrants fought with each other in the morning, aid workers said, after a night spent under open skies lashed by autumn wind and rain

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SPECIAL

LONG QUEUES: Migrants queue at the border crossing with Croatia near the village of Berkasovo, Serbia on Monday. – Reuters

MIGRANTS FLOOD BALKANS BORDERS

WAITING TO ENTER SLOVENIA: Migrants rest on the ground as they wait to enter Slovenia from Trnovec, Croatia on Monday. – Reuters

open after Hungary closed its southern border

nation for refugees fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East and Africa and expects 800,000 to a million new arrivals this year. Many Germans feel the country cannot cope with the record influx.

BERKASOVO, SERBIA/LJUBLJANA: The Balkans struggled with a growing backlog of migrants on Monday as thousands of people waited on cold, wet borders after Hungary closed its southern frontier and diverted them to Slovenia.

Slovenia imposed a daily limit of 2,500, forcing fellow European Union-member Croatia to also ration entry from Serbia, which the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) said was hosting more than 10,000 migrants on Monday, with more on the way.

“It’s like a big river of people, and if you stop the flow, you will have floods somewhere. That’s what’s happening now,” UNHCR spokesman Melita Sunjic said from the Serbia-Croatia border, where about 2,000 people were stranded in desperate and deteriorating conditions.

Groups of migrants fought with each other in the morning, aid workers said, after a night spent under open skies lashed by autumn wind and rain. “Open the gate, open the gate!” they chanted, their passage barred by lines of Croatian police who on Monday erected an improvised fence to control access.

Slovenia found itself dragged into the path of the greatest migration of people in Europe since World War II after Hungary sealed its border with Croatia to migrants on Friday.

A country of two million people

Misgivings Merkel’s offer to help push forward Ankara’s protracted EU membership talks was met with misgivings by some conservative lawmakers. “We shouldn’t make too many concessions to Turkey: joining the EU is not on the agenda,” Gerda Hasselfeldt, a senior member of the Christian Social Union (CSU), sister party to Merkel’s Christian Democrats (CDU), told Die Welt newspaper.

“An accession of Turkey to the EU is out of the question for me,” Stephan Mayer, a fellow CSU lawmaker told the same paper.

Last week, Merkel faced calls from some of her own conservatives to tighten Germany’s border controls and turn away refugees arriving from Austria -- pressure she has resisted. But opposition to her handling of the crisis continues to grow, with a group of conservative politicians working on proposals to close the borders and put up fences, daily Bild reported.

“We need to stop the wave of refugees. Examining whether to fortify the borders should not be taboo,” CDU lawmaker Christian von Stetten told the paper.

Von Stetten said he was convinced the government had an “effective plan” to deal with the influx of refugees, but added the CDU/ CSU parliamentary group would have to react if it turned out in the next few weeks that this assumption was false. Last week, German lawmakers approved measures to tackle the crisis, including speed-

Thousands of refugees spend cold nights in the

bordering Hungary, Italy, Austria and Croatia, Slovenia said it would only allow in as many as it could register, accommodate and send on to Austria. It said Austria had limited its own intake, something Vienna denied. Most refugees want to reach Germany, which for the moment is letting them enter.

Discord and disarray What initially looked like a smooth and well-coordinated response by fellow ex-Yugoslav republics Slovenia and Croatia quickly broke down into the kind of discord and disarray that has characterised Europe’s response to the hundreds of thousands reaching its shores by boat across the Mediterranean and Aegean seas, many of them Syrians fleeing war.

Hungary’s right-wing government says the mainly migrants pose a threat to Europe’s prosperity, security and “values”, and has sealed its borders with Serbia and Croatia with a steel fence and new laws that rights groups say deny refugees their right to seek protection.

The European Union has agreed a plan, resisted by Hungary and several other ex-Communist members of the bloc, to share out 120,000 refugees among its members, a small proportion of the 700,000 migrants the International Organization for Migration (IOM) projects will reach Europe’s borders from the Middle East, Af-

UNCERTAIN FUTURE: A child sleeps as migrants wait at the crossing

with Croatia near the village of Berkasovo, Serbia, on Monday. – Reuters

rica and Asia this year.

It is also courting Turkey with the promise of money, easier EU travel for Turks and “re-energised” accession talks if Ankara tries to stem the flow of migrants across its territory.

Turkey wants fresh EU funding to help tackle the migration crisis rather than the early disbursal of money already earmarked for it, and wants the sum reviewed annually, Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said on Monday.

EU leaders at a summit in Brussels last week said they had agreed on a migration “action plan” with Turkey, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the figure of 3 billion euros ($3.4 billion) had been discussed. But speaking on Turkey’s Ahaber TV, a day after meeting Merkel in Istanbul, Davutoglu said that sum would have come from “IPA” fund, money already earmarked it as an EU membership

candidate, and that Turkey wanted additional cash. “The 3 billion euro IPA fund proposal is no longer on the table as we have said we will not accept it,” Davutoglu said.

“As for fresh resources, we’re talking about a 3 billion euro amount in the first stage. But we don’t want to fixate on this because the requirements may go up, and the assessment for this would need to be done annually.”

Merkel on Sunday offered Turkey the prospect of support for faster progress on its bid to join the European Union in return for cooperation in stemming the flow of Migrants and taking back those rejected by Europe.

Merkel’s open-door policy drew criticism on Monday from conservative allies, with one senior Bavarian politician warning against any consideration of European Union membership for Ankara. Germany is a favoured desti-

ing up asylum and deportation procedures and reducing incentives for economic Migrants to come to Germany.

In Croatia, about 1,800 people were halted on a train short of the Slovenian border, where Slovenian police barred access with an improvised fence. They disembarked and walked along the tracks, wrapped in raincoats or plastic sheeting against the rain.

Around 150, mainly families with children, were allowed to cross the frontier, the rest spent the night in the open, warming themselves around open fires. Slovenia accused Croatia of sending more, unannounced, on Monday morning. “Yesterday the Croatian side stopped answering our phone calls so we do not know how many migrants to expect, which is making our work very difficult,” Slovenian Interior Minister Vesna Gyorkos Znidar told a news conference on Monday.

Her Croatian counterpart, Ranko Ostojic, told reporters in Croatia: “Slovenia first said it could receive up to 8,000 migrants (daily), then 5,000, then 2,500 and now it has been reduced to zero. It would mean that the whole burden is being left to Croatia.”

Upwards of 5,000 people are flowing daily across Balkan borders further south, from Greece into Macedonia and Serbia, both former Yugoslav republics with barely the money or resources to cope. “Overnight everything here collapsed, people were fighting with clubs, arguing; there are no shelters,” said Jan Pinos, the head of a group of Czech aid volunteers on the Serbian-Croatian border.

“The Serbian authorities have failed to secure and take care of this place,” he told Reuters. — Reuters

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UN special envoy urges Yemen parties to make talks a success DUBAI: UN-sponsored talks to end months of fighting in Yemen will convene in Geneva at the end of October, the UN special envoy for the issue has announced, urging the parties to try to make the negotiations a success.

A previous round of UN-sponsored talks between the Yemeni government and the Houthis failed in June, mainly due to differences over the implementation of a UN Security Council resolution calling for the rebel group to withdraw from cities they seized over the past year.

The UN special envoy to Yemen, Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, wrote on his Facebook page late on Sunday that, after talks with President Abdrabbo Mansour Hadi in

Saudi Arabia, he had managed to persuade all the parties to attend a new round of talks in Geneva at the end of this month.

“While offering thanks to all parties, the United Nations calls for more flexibility, for opportunities may not be conducive after this time,” he added.

The Yemeni government said on Sunday it had agreed to attend UN-sponsored talks after the Houthis formally committed to implementing UN Security Council resolution 2216.

The Houthis have previously said they would attend the discussions, but have yet to make a comment after the Yemeni government announcement.

But the Houthis have since writ-

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ten to UN Secretary-general Ban Ki-moon informing him that they were ready to discuss implementing the resolution.

The Yemeni government-run sabanew.net news agency reported on Sunday that Ould Cheikh Ahmed had delivered a letter from the UN chief to Hadi informing him that the Houthis had formally accepted the Security Council resolution.

At least 5,400 people have been killed in the fighting in the country

on the Arabian Peninsula, and the United Nations says the humanitarian situation, exacerbated by a Saudi blockade of Yemen’s ports, is “critical”.

Saudi Arabia has been leading an Arab military intervention since March to try to restore Hadi’s government, now based in Aden, and fend off what it sees as creeping foreign influence.

The Saudi foreign ministry commended Hadi’s stand on the talks and welcomed the Houthi decision to honour UN Security Council resolution 2216.

“It is considered a step in the right direction to solving the Yemeni crisis,” the ministry said in a statement attributed to a responsible source. - Reuters

TAKING POSITION: Soldiers and militiamen loyal to Yemen’s government take position at the frontline of fighting against Houthi rebels in the country’s central province of Marib on Monday. - Reuters

Syrian rebels ‘receive’ more weapons for Aleppo battle Rebels from three Free Syrian Armyaffiliated groups contacted by Reuters said new supplies had arrived in response to the attack by the army, which is backed up by Russian air strikes and on the ground by foreign fighters

BEIRUT/AMMAN: Rebels battling the Syrian army and its allies near Aleppo said on Monday they had received new supplies of US-made anti-tank missiles from states opposed to President Bashar Al Assad since the start of a major government offensive last week.

The rebels from three Free Syrian Army-affiliated groups contacted by Reuters said new supplies had arrived in response to the attack by the army, which is backed up by Russian air strikes and on the ground by foreign fighters.

The “Free Syrian Army” refers to a loose affiliation of groups fighting Assad that do not operate with a centralised command and control structure and have been widely eclipsed by militant groups such as the Nusra Front and IS. Russian-intervention The delivery of the US-made TOW missiles to rebels in Aleppo and elsewhere in Syria appears to be an initial response to the new Russian-intervention.

But officials from one of the Aleppo-based rebel groups said the supplies were inadequate for the scale of the assault, one of several ground offensives underway with Russian air support.

“A few (TOW missiles) will not

PROTECTION FROM SNIPERS: Civilians walk past sanitation cylinders placed as barricades to provide protection from snipers of the forces of Syria’s President Bashar Al Assad, in the old city of Aleppo, Syria on Sunday. - Reuters

do the trick. They need dozens,” said one official, declining to be named due to the political sensitivity of the military support programme.

A number of rebel groups vetted by states opposed to Assad have been supplied with weapons via Turkey, part of a programme supported by the United States and which has in some cases included military training by the Central Intelligence Agency.

“We received more supplies of ammunition in greater quantities than before, including mortar bombs, rocket launchers and anti-tank (missiles),” said Issa Al Turkmani, a commander in the FSA-affiliated Sultan Murad group fighting in the Aleppo area.

“We have received more new TOWs in the last few days... We are well-stocked after these deliveries.” TOW missiles are the most potent weapon in the rebels’ arsenal. FSA-affiliated groups have also been using TOWs against

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government forces to fend off another offensive in Hama province, southwest of Aleppo.

Rebels there said last week they had plentiful supplies of the missiles. Since the start of the Russian air strikes, ground offensives by the Syrian army and its allies have mostly hit areas controlled by insurgent groups other than IS in parts of western Syria that are crucial to Assad’s survival.

The Aleppo offensive is targeting areas a few miles to the south of the city near the highway to Damascus. The army and its allies have captured several villages.

Some 3,000 families have fled to other parts of Aleppo province, said Rami Abdulrahman, head of the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which reports

on the war using sources on the ground. Abdulrahman said at least 41 rebel fighters had been killed.

One Aleppo-based rebel group, the Nour Al Din Al Zinki Brigades, said its military commander was among the dead.

“The battles are underway in a big way on a number of fronts. The last three days were bad. Yesterday (the rebel) forces were able to form an operations room and to distribute zones of operation,” Hassan Al Haj Ali, head of the rebel Suqour Al Jabal group, said via the Internet.

Government troops and their allies are also trying to advance to the east of Aleppo towards Kweires military airport to break a siege of the base by IS, which controls some parts of Aleppo province, notably to the north of the city.

Abdulrahman said rebels had hit at least 11 army vehicles with TOW missiles near Aleppo since Friday. One FSA brigade, the Sham Revolutionary Brigades, posted six videos on Saturday showing its

fighters targeting army vehicles with wire-guided missiles near Azzan. Videos posted by Sultan Murad showed its men targeting a tank and a bulldozer with TOW missiles near Abtin, captured by the army on Friday.

“There are TOWs in the southern Aleppo front but not enough,” said a second rebel official who declined to be named.

“Yesterday the regime’s armoured vehicles were moving freely. We had a shortfall in TOW and the regime APCs were able to move.” The Observatory reported fresh Russian air strikes on Monday in the southern Aleppo area.

Abdulrahman described the fighting as heavy but added that the government side had not made further strategic gains on Monday.

The Syrian state news agency said on Monday the rural Aleppo area was one of 49 sites targeted

by Russian warplanes, along with rural Damascus, Latakia and Hama. - Reuters

S T R AT E G Y

UK to block passports of teens to stop them from joining rebels LONDON: British parents worried that their 16 and 17-yearold children might travel to Syria or Iraq under the influence of militants will be able to apply to have their passports removed, Prime Minister David Cameron will say on Monday.

The measure is aimed at disrupting a steady stream of young Britons lured by the IS’s radical ideology to join the militant group fighting in the Middle East. Cameron has said that defeating militants is the “struggle of our generation”.

“The government’s new ‘Counter-Extremism Strategy’ is a clear signal of the choice we have made to take on this poisonous ideology with resolve, determination and the goal of building a greater Britain,” he will say, according to extracts from his speech.

“And a key part of this new approach is going further to protect children and vulnerable people from the risk of radicalisation by empowering parents and public institutions with all the advice, tools and practical support they need.” Cameron will also say that anyone with a conviction for terrorist offences or extremist activity will be automatically banned from working with children and vulnerable people. - Reuters UK

Ebola nurse condition improves LONDON: A Scottish nurse who contracted Ebola in Sierra Leone last year, recovered and then suffered a relapse, has improved slightly to a serious but stable condition, hospital officials said on Monday.

On Monday, the London hospital issued a health update saying: “Pauline Cafferkey’s condition has improved to serious but stable.” It gave no further details. - Reuters

COLLECTIVE DEFENCE

As Russia reasserts itself, NATO opens biggest exercise in years TRAPANI (Italy): NATO and its allies opened their largest military exercise in more than a decade on Monday, choosing the central Mediterranean to showcase strengths that face threats from Russia’s growing military presence from the Baltics to Syria.

As planes flew over a gala ceremony for NATO’s military and political leaders at an air base in southern Italy, Russia’s resurgence was the central topic of concern, pushing NATO to embark on its biggest modernisation since the Cold War. “This sends a very clear message to any potential aggressor,” NATO’s top commander General Philip Breedlove said of the Trident Juncture exercises and the testing of a new rapid-reaction force.

“Any attempt to violate the sovereignty of one NATO nation will result in the decisive military en-

gagement of all NATO nations,” Breedlove said, before donning flight gear to oversee a fly-over of dozens of fighter jets and camouflaged helicopters.

But looming over the exercises involving some 36,000 troops, ships and aircraft over five weeks is the issue of how far Russia’s growing military presence from the Baltics to Syria can limit NATO’s ability to move around by sea and air.

From the Baltics, where Russia has a naval base in Kaliningrad, through the Black Sea and annexed Crimea, to Moscow’s intervention in Syria, Russia has stationed antiaircraft and anti-ship missiles able to cover huge areas.

“We are very concerned about the Russian military build-up,” NATO’s Deputy Secretary General Alexander Vershbow told reporters.

“The increasing concentration

DRILL: Helicopters fly during a NATO military exercise at the Birgi

NATO airbase in Trapani, Italy on Monday. - Reuters

of forces in Kaliningrad, the Black Sea and now in the eastern Mediterranean does pose some additional challenges,” he said.

NATO officials insist the alliance is ready and able to defend any of its 28 allies from any threat, while its combined

strength is far greater than Russia’s military capacity.

Still, privately NATO officials and diplomats worry the alliance needs to be more agile to combat multiple threats beyond its borders, a fact underscored by Libya’s collapse, the rise of IS militants

and Syria’s civil war.

They see the emergence of a Russian strategy to set up defensive zones of influence, so-called anti-access area denial, with surface-to-air missile batteries and anti-ship missiles that can prevent forces from entering or moving across air, land and sea.

That could prevent NATO countries including the United States setting up a no-fly zone to protect Syrian refugees from bombings in northern Syria, for instance.

“We have to take into account that Russia is going to have a much more substantial presence... with the ability to impede our freedom of manoeuvre and our freedom of navigation,” said a senior official who declined to be identified.

The Crimean peninsula, which Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014, had become “an armed fortress”, the official said.

After more than a decade of NATO-led combat operations in Afghanistan, the US-led military alliance is shifting to defend its territory. Control of its outer regions is seen as critical.

One powerful new tool that the exercises will test is a 5,000-strong “spearhead” force comprising air, maritime and special operations components as part of a 40,000-strong rapid reaction force. Libya’s collapse, the rise of IS militants, Syria’s civil war and the European Union’s failure to stabilise its southern neighbourhood are now NATO’s problems too and NATO member Turkey shares borders with Syria and Iraq.

While planned two years ago, the exercises are timely because they are not about reacting to an attack on a NATO ally, although NATO remains focused on collective defence. - Reuters

T U E S DAY, O CTO B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5 I’m not going to give my vote to someone who doesn’t deserve it.

As youth we’re trying to fix the country and we’ll work to do this... but these guys are just interested in money and themselves.

Michael Bassili, Resident of Alexandria

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Egyptians stay away from voting on the second of day of elections SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY VISIT

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Sherif Ismail said the turnout on the first

was extended for a third day in order to boost turnout, with pro-government media pushing Egyptians to show up. Sisi won 97 per cent of votes. This time, even Egypt’s largely loyalist press focused on the lack of interest in the polls.

Analysts say Sisi may try to spin the apathy to his favour by arguing that Egyptians place more faith in the presidency. “An election without voters,” said a front-page headline in the business daily Al Mal. “Elections without queues,” read a headline in Al Shorouk.

day of voting was just 15-16 per cent

CAIRO: Egyptians largely stayed away from parliamentary elections for a second day on Monday, highlighting growing disillusionment since the army seized power in 2013 and promised to restore democracy.

Prime Minister Sherif Ismail said turnout on the first day of voting on Sunday was just 15-16 per cent but should rise after public sector workers were given a halfday off to vote. Estimates by judges overseeing the ballot suggested turnout had risen to 20 per cent or more by Monday afternoon.

The lack of interest, particularly from young people who comprise the majority of Egypt’s population, stands in contrast to the long queues and youthful enthusiasm of the 2011-12 polls.

“I’m not going to give my vote to someone who doesn’t deserve it,” Michael Bassili, 19, from Alexandria. “As youth we’re trying to fix the country and we’ll work to do this...but these guys are just interested in money and themselves.”

Coming days after President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi urged Egyptians

EMPTY BOOTHS: Egyptian officials sit in an empty polling station in Cairo’s Giza district, on the sec-

ond day of voting in Egypt’s parliamentary elections on Monday. -AFP

to cast their ballots, the low turnout suggested the former general, who once enjoyed cult-like adulation, was losing some of his appeal.

Sisi has described the election as a milestone on the road to de-

mocracy in Egypt, the most populous Arab country.

But with most of his opponents in jail, Sisi is not expected to face any serious challenges from parliament, and the low turnout will

reinforce the view that it will lack credibility. In 2013, then-army chief Sisi overthrew Egypt’s first freely-elected president, the Muslim Brotherhood’s Mohamed Morsi, and promised a “roadmap to democracy”.

He then launched the fiercest crackdown on dissent in Egypt’s modern history, jailing thousands of Morsi’s supporters as well as activists at the forefront of the 2011 revolt that ended Hosni Mubarak’s 30-year rule and ignited hopes of change.

Last year’s presidential election

Public transport In Alexandria, the governor ordered that public transport be offered from 1pm until the polls close at 9 pm to encourage people to vote. “None of the candidates is qualified to be an MP. Ask anybody of them about the legislative role he should play?” Abeer Sayed said in the southern city of Luxor.

Egypt has had no parliament since June 2012 when a court dissolved the democratically elected main chamber, then dominated by the Brotherhood, reversing a key accomplishment of the 2011 Tahrir Square protest.

Repeatedly postponed, Egypt’s elections are now taking place over two rounds on October 18-19 and November 22-23. This week, voters cast their ballots in 14 regions including Egypt’s second

city of Alexandria on the Mediterranean coast. Critics say an electoral system that puts the emphasis on individuals is a throwback to Mubarak-era politics, which favoured candidates with wealth and connections. Of the 568 elected seats overall, 120 will be contested by closed winner-takes-all lists. But even these are expected to be dominated by loyalists.

Outlawed and branded a terrorist group, the Brotherhood, which won almost half the seats in the last election, is boycotting as is much of the secular and liberal opposition. An alliance of socialist opposition parties that had been due to contest for seats eventually pulled out.

“There is obvious refusal to participate, which is proof that the people know what is going on right now is a farce designed to make the current regime look democratic,” said Mohamed Soudan, an exiled Brotherhood official.

“For the Love of Egypt”, an alliance of loyalist parties and politicians, is contesting all list seats and is expected to dominate.

The Nour Party, which came second in the last election, is not expected to scoop up votes that would have gone to the Brotherhood because it endorsed Morsi’s overthrow.

Even some who voted for Sisi last year are not planning to cast a ballot this time. “There is security since Sisi took power and that’s good but its not just about security.

A lot of things need to change, the economy, tourism, the high prices in the country,” said Ahmed, a 35-year-old father of three. - Reuters

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Saudi crude stocks touch a record high RIYADH: Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest oil exporter, is storing record amounts of crude in its quest to maintain market share as it cut shipments.

Commercial crude stockpiles in August rose to 326.6 million barrels, the highest since at least 2002, from 320.2 million barrels in July, according to data posted on the website of the Riyadh-based Joint Organisations Data Initiative. Exports dropped to 7 million barrels a day from 7.28 million.

“The fall in Saudi crude exports reflects the market reality,” Mohammed Ramady, an independent London-based analyst, said Sunday by phone. “It’s normal to see this fall knowing that the market is becoming highly competitive, with many countries in Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) selling at discounts and under-pricing the Saudi crude.”

Crude inventories have been at record highs since May, a month before Saudi Arabia’s production hit an all-time high of 10.56 million barrels a day. The nation has led the Opec in boosting production to defend market share, abandoning its previous role of cutting output to boost prices.

Brent crude oil prices have slid 13 per cent this year amid a global supply glut. Brent futures for December settlement fell 2.3 per cent to $49.30 a barrel. - Bloomberg News

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Oman’s economy declines in the first half of this year Oman crude touches $46.22 per barrel

Gross domestic product in the first half of 2015 fell to OMR13.552b from OMR15.791b for the same period last year, mainly hit by a fall in oil prices

A. E. JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman’s gross domestic product (GDP) or the total value of goods and services produced in the country in the first half of 2015 fell by 14.2 per cent to OMR13.552 billion from OMR15.791 billion for the same period last year, mainly hit by a plunge in oil prices in the international market.

The major fall was witnessed in energy sector activities, which dipped by 38.2 per cent to

SLUMP IN REVENUE: The major fall was witnessed in energy sector activities, which dipped by 38.2 per cent to OMR4.65 billion from OMR7.51 billion in the first half. Crude oil sector was down by 42.4 per cent to OMR4.04 billion. – File photo

OMR4.65 billion from OMR7.51 billion in the first half. Crude oil sector was down by 42.4 per cent to OMR4.04 billion, while natural gas segment surged ahead by 21.3 per cent to OMR607.3 million, according to the latest data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

However, the overall non-oil activities moved up by 3.7 per

cent to OMR8.949 billion from OMR8.627 billion. Among nonoil sectors, agriculture and fisheries activities showed a 4.2 per cent growth to OMR200.1 million, while industrial activities were up by 4.7 per cent to OMR2.263 billion for the first half of 2015.

In fact, mining and quarrying surged ahead by 19.9 per cent to OMR68.6 million, while manufac-

MUSCAT: Dubai Mercantile Exchange (DME) said that Oman oil price (December delivery) reached $46.22 a barrel.

The DME statement on Monday said that the price of Oman oil declined 67 cents from the price of last “Friday,” which was $46.89.

The average price of Oman oil (November Delivery 2015) has stabilised at $45.76, thus $2.12 per barrel lower than October delivery 2015. - ONA

turing sector fell by 2.7 per cent to OMR1,256.7 million.

Non-oil exports The Sultanate’s non-oil exports stood at OMR1.664 billion for the first half of this year, showing a fall of 9.8 per cent from OMR1.845 billion posted for the same period last year. The fall in non-oil exports was mainly on

account of a plunge in re-exports, which came down by 32.1 per cent to OMR1,051.4 million in the first half.

The country’s major non-oil export items include fertiliser, plastics, rubber, fish and minerals.

B2

TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

MARKET BRIEFS

U K M A G A Z I N E AWA R D

National Biscuits plans to merge with A’Nabil Food MUSCAT: National Biscuits Industries said that its board has decided to merge with A’Nabil Food Industry Company. National Biscuits has a 98 per cent stake in A’Nabil Food Industry Company, the company said in a stock market filing. National Biscuits has called for an extraordinary general meeting to get approval from the shareholders for the merger.

Sohar gets ‘Free Zone of the Year’ award Times News Service

KPMG to organise forum for finance professionals MUSCAT: An event will be organised by KPMG for finance professionals in Oman on November 2 to provide them with a platform to discuss the implications of a dynamic business environment, especially with falling oil prices. According to Ahmed Tufail, partner at KPMG, the forum event will host eminent chief financial officers who will be part of two panel discussions. It will focus on two things – designing an efficient finance function through application of concepts such as lean and finance function’s role in effective partnering with business to achieve performance.

SMN Power clears distribution of 22% cash dividend MUSCAT: Board of directors of SMN Power Holding has approved a proposal to distribute an interim cash dividend of 22 per cent of the issued share capital of the company (22 baises per share) for the six-month period ended June 2015. SMN Power is a leader in Oman’s power and water sector.

Through two facilities, SMN Barka Power Company and Al Rusail Power, it caters to Oman’s main power grid demand and Oman’s main water network needs.

Oman Flour Mills net profit increases MUSCAT: Oman Flour Mills has reported an increase in the net profit of the group and the parent company for the nine-month period ended September 2015. The group’s net profit for the period stood at OMR2.19 million, compared to OMR1.81 million during the same period last year, the company said in a filing.

The net profit of the parent company for the nine-month period rose to OMR1.93 million from OMR1.88 million during the corresponding period in the previous year.

- Times News Service

ADVANTAGE: The first phase of Sohar Freezone is now almost fully leased out, several years ahead of the original schedule, as many overseas investors discover the unique advantages of Sohar Port and Freezone’s location outside the Strait of Hormuz. – Times file picture

CRÉDIT AGRICOLE REPORT

UAE, Saudi continue to witness stable economic growth Times News Service MUSCAT: Saudi Arabia and the UAE continue to witness stable economic activity despite challenging macro environment, according to the latest Crédit Agricole Private Banking research report, ‘Macro comment – Mena update’.

There may be some general negativity around low oil prices and the geopolitical situation, but it is yet to translate into really weaker economic activity in these two countries, it said in a research note.

“Despite the pessimism engineered by the continued low level of oil prices and the regional geopolitical situation, the economic engines of leading GCC countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia continue to move ahead.

Oil price related negativity has not actually translated into any meaningful or weaker economic activity in the UAE or Saudi Arabia, as reflected in the September purchasing managers indices (PMIs)”, said D. Paul Wetterwald, chief economist at Crédit Agricole Private Banking.

In the UAE, the non-oil private sector PMI did not decline significantly with the September mark

set at 56 versus 57.1 in August. It was seen that output and new orders improved, but export orders declined slightly.

Input costs rise On the other hand, input costs rose due to both higher costs in regards to labour and materials.

As a result of subdued output price increases, company prices were more likely to decline. At the consumer level, a continuous upward trend was observed in the CPI, which was 4.9 per cent higher this September than a year ago.

While in Saudi Arabia, the non-oil private sector PMI stood at 56.5 in September, which is markedly lower than the August figure of 58.7. However, the third quarter average was almost the same as the second quarter average. Despite the slowdown of the growth rate, Saudi output expanded along with new orders (including foreign ones).

Meanwhile, purchase prices and staffing costs were reported to be increasing in Saudi Arabia.

As a result, companies marginally increased their output prices.

However, this should not impact the inflation.

MUSCAT: In its annual search for the world’s best free zones, the jury from ‘fDi Magazine’, part of the UK’s Financial Times group, has awarded Oman’s Sohar Freezone ‘2015 Free Zone of the Year’ in two categories — with one commendation for ‘Ease of Access’ and another for ‘Infrastructure Improvements.’

“We are delighted to receive this international recognition for Sohar Freezone and ‘fDi Magazine’ certainly did their homework; this past year has seen great progress made in terms of accessibility thanks to huge improvements in our fast growing network of new and uncongested highways; with the recent opening of Sohar Airport we will soon be able to offer seamless sea-road-air cargo connections in Oman,” said Jamal Aziz, chief executive officer of Sohar Freezone.

The first phase of Sohar Freezone is now almost fully leased out, several years ahead of the original schedule, as many over-

seas investors discover the unique advantages of Sohar Port and Freezone’s location outside the Strait of Hormuz.

Linking east to west This has made it an ideal transshipment centre between east and west, as well as an important gateway not only to the growing Middle East and North African (Mena) region, but also as a stepping-off point to around 3.5 billion consumers across easily accessible neighbouring regions of China, India and Eastern Africa.

“We have positioned ourselves in Sohar as regional players in a global market and its great to see that these fDi commendations are benchmarked against the world’s best free zones; we are proud of everything that our Freezone team has achieved here in the Sultanate of Oman and are thankful to all our tenants who continue to support us as we strive for more diversification and further significant growth,” said Andre Toet, chief executive officer of of Sohar Port.

Islamic finance growth to slow down, says S&P Islamic finance will still have the impetus to continue progressing and maintaining some growth, said the rating agency SHARIA RULING: Standardisation of documents and Sharia ruling could enhance industry integration and free stakeholders’ capacity to focus on innovation, said Standard & Poor’s. – Bloomberg News

Times News Service MUSCAT: Growth in Islamic finance will slacken in 2016, said Standard & Poor’s (S&P) Ratings Services in its report, ‘Islamic finance to still grow in 2016 but with a sag’, on Monday.

“The industry has achieved critical mass — Islamic finance assets worldwide exceed $2 trillion by our estimate. But we now think the industry faces challenges from the decline in oil prices, changes in the global regulatory framework for banks and insurance companies, and its own fragmented nature,” said Mohamed Damak, global head of Islamic Finance, Standard & Poor’s.

Still, Islamic finance will have the impetus to continue progressing and maintain some growth,

said Standard & Poor’s .

It further said that governments in core markets see in Islamic finance a tool to maintain their investment spending, somewhat countering the negative impact of oil prices on their budgets.

Lack of liquidity The ratings agency pointed out that the regulatory changes could help the industry in resolving issues related to the lack of liquidity management instruments and applying more stringently its principle of profit and loss sharing.

Standardisation of documents and Sharia ruling could enhance industry integration and free stakeholders’ capacity to focus on innovation,” S&P said in a note.

“We expect the industry will be worth $3 trillion sometime in the next decade”, it said.

“Islamic finance stakeholders’ efforts and the industry’s contribution to development of the real economy will likely fuel growth,” added Damak.

“This development is capturing the interest of major financial institutions, such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, and some advanced countries,” he said.

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T U E S DAY, O CTO B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5

B3

MARKET SECOND QUARTER

Reliance profit beats forecasts, benefits from low energy cost MUMBAI: Share pirce of Reliance Industries headed for their biggest gain in more than 19 months after second-quarter profit at the operator of the world’s largest oil refining complex beat analysts’ estimates.

The stock rose as much as 5.3 per cent to Rs960, the largest advance on a closing basis since March 2014, and traded at Rs954.95 in Mumbai. Reliance was the best performer on the benchmark S&P BSE Sensex on Monday.

Net income increased 14 per cent to Rs65.61 billion ($1 billion) in the quarter to September from a year earlier, the Mumbai-based company said on Friday. That beats the Rs58.4 billion average of 12 analyst estimates.

Crude slump Mukesh Ambani-controlled Reliance is benefiting from lower crude prices in the quarter, with Brent averaging about half of what it was a year ago.

Refiner Reliance Industries earned $10.6 for every barrel of crude it turned into fuels in the period, the highest in seven years.

Gross refining margin was $8.3 a barrel a year earlier and $10.4 in the preceding three months.

The company may deliver a compounded annual earnings growth of 13 per cent over the next three years beginning from financial year ended March on higher margins, according to Antique Stock Broking.

The adjoining refineries at Jamnagar have a combined capacity of 1.24 million barrels a day and can process cheaper, lower grades of crude into high-value products.

Brent oil, the global benchmark, averaged about $51 a barrel in the quarter. - Bloomberg News

Saudi delaying payments to contractors as oil price slides Companies working on infrastructure projects have been waiting six months or more for payments as the government seeks to hoard cash

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is delaying payments to government contractors as the slump in oil prices pushes the country into a deficit for the first time since 2009, according to three people with knowledge of the matter.

Companies working on infrastructure projects have been waiting six months or more for payments as the government seeks to preserve cash, the people said, asking not to be identified as the information is private. Delays have increased this year and the government has also been seeking to cut prices on contracts, the people said.

Saudi Arabia is tackling the slump in crude, which accounts for about 80 per cent of revenue, by tapping foreign reserves, cutting spending and selling bonds.

Net foreign assets fell by about $82 billion at the end of August after reaching an all- time high last year. The country has raised 55 billion riyals($15 billion) from debt issuance this year. The government is also seeking to cut capital spending and delay projects.

THIRD QUARTER

HARD HIT: Approximately 140 billion riyals of construction contracts were awarded in Saudi Arabia in the first half, a 12.4 per cent increase over the first six months of 2014. – Bloomberg News

“It’s hard to hold back from boosting spending when oil is on the rise, but very hard to cut when oil prices fall,” Simon Williams, chief economist for central and eastern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa at HSBC Holdings, said in e-mailed comments.

“Cuts are coming — the budget deficit is too large to ignore and pretend it’s business as usual.”

Riyadh metro Payment delays could slow the completion of projects under construction, including the $22 billion Riyadh metro, and curb the expansion needed to create jobs for a rising population.

In the past, government spending has been a catalyst for growth.

For example, when authorities announced $130 billion in social spending in 2011, the economy expanded 10 percent. This year, growth will probably be about 3 percent, according to data. A spokesman for the Finance Mnistry declined to comment.

Crude’s decline — it’s about halved in the past 12 months — coupled with the kingdom’s spending plans, will leave Saudi Arabia with a budget deficit exceeding 400 billion riyals this year, according to the International Monetary Fund. The aggregate deficit for 2015 to 2017 is

likely to exceed $300 billion, according to a report by HSBC. The government has ordered a series of cost-cutting measures, including a freeze on new construction contracts and bans on buying new vehicles or furniture, two people with knowledge of the matter told Bloomberg earlier this month.

Saudi’s public debt Still, Saudi Arabia’s public debt is among the world’s lowest, with a gross debt-to-GDP ratio of less than 2 per cent in 2014. Real estate stocks have also outperformed the Tadawul All Share Index. The Tadawul All Share Real Estate Development Industries

Index advanced 7.5 per cent in 2015 through Sunday, compared with a 6.5 percent decline in the benchmark stock gauge.

Approximately 140 billion riyals of construction contracts were awarded in Saudi Arabia in the first half, a 12.4 per cent increase compared to the first six months of 2014, according to a report by Jeddah-based National Commercial Bank. - Bloomberg News

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OIL MARKET

Iran urges Opec to cut crude oil production to boost prices Chinese economic growth slows down BEIJING: China posted its weakest quarterly economic growth since the global financial crisis on Monday, raising pressure on policymakers to cut interest rates further and roll out other support measures to avert a sharper slowdown.

Chinese leaders have been trying to reassure jittery global markets for months that the economy is under control after a shock devaluation of the yuan and a summer stock market plunge fanned fears of a hard landing.

The world’s second-largest economy grew 6.9 per cent in the JulySeptember quarter from a year ago, slightly better than analysts’ estimate of 6.8 per cent, but down from 7 per cent in the second quarter.

That is the weakest reading since the first quarter of 2009, when growth tumbled to 6.2 per cent.

However, analysts still mostly believe China’s slowdown will be gradual rather than more calamitous.

“Continued downward pressures from real estate and exports caused gross domestic product (GDP) growth to drop to 6.9 per cent,” said Louis Kuijs from Oxford Economics in Hong Kong.

“We think overall growth will

soften more into 2016,” he said.

“In such a setting we expect more incremental monetary and fiscal measures.”

Factory output rises Factory output rose 5.7 per cent in September from a year ago, missing forecasts for a 6 per cent rise, and fixed-asset investment (FAI), a key driver of the economy, climbed 10.3 per cent in the first nine months of the year, below estimates of 10.8 per cent.

Retail spending alone bucked the trend, growing at an annual rate of 10.9 per cent, slightly better than forecasts for 10.8 per cent growth.

“The GDP beat is surprising, given that the monthly FAI and industrial production figures slowed considerably, and much faster than expected,” said Oliver Barron, a China policy researcher at NSBO in Beijing.

“The data would suggest that retail sales is holding up the data and there are other areas that the government is factoring in consumption and services data that are not picked up in the monthly figures.”

- Bloomberg News

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TEHRAN: Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) member states should cut crude output to boost prices to a range of $70 to $80 a barrel, Iran’s Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh said, even as his country prepares to ramp up production in the aftermath of economic sanctions.

“No one is happy” with prices at current levels, Zanganeh told reporters in Tehran. “Opec should decide to manage the market by reducing the level of production.”

Zanganeh said he doesn’t expect the producer group to decide to scale back output when its ministers meet next in December.

The Opec has exceeded its official production target for 16 consecutive months as the group seeks to defend sales amid a global supply glut. Brent crude, a global benchmark, has slumped 42 per cent in the last 12 months and was at $49.73 a barrel in London.

Opec, supplier of about 40 per cent of the world’s oil, plans to assess output when ministers from its 12 members meet on December 4 in Vienna.

Nuclear accord Iran is pushing to regain the global oil sales it lost after the United States and other world powers imposed sanctions over its nuclear programme. The country agreed in July to accept limits on its nuclear work in return for access to oil and financial markets.

The Islamic Republic is seeking $100 billion in investment by March

Russia aims to increase crude supply to China

Bijan Namdar Zanganeh, Iran’s oil minister. - Bloomberg News 2021 to increase output of oil and natural gas, Zanganeh said. Iran has the world’s fourth-largest reserves of oil and second-largest deposits of gas, according to the US Energy Information Administration.

“We won’t seek permission from anyone for our production,” Zanganeh said. “We will bring our production back to the market, and the market will absorb it. All of those Opec members whom I speak with welcome this.”

Iran can boost oil exports by 500,000 barrels a day within a week after the removal of sanctions, Roknoddin Javadi, managing director of state-run National Iranian Oil Company, told reporters in Tehran. The nation can raise exports by 1 million barrels a day within six months once the curbs are lifted, he said.

Iran targets crude production of 4.7 million barrels a day by March 2021. - Bloomberg News

SYDNEY: Saudi Arabia has traditionally had a lock on Asian oil markets.

In Japan, Korea and Taiwan, the kingdom’s barrels make up about one third of crude oil imports.

In China, that position is now under threat from Russia. Russia has shrugged off Western sanctions over Ukraine and enjoyed a plunge in production costs thanks to the rouble’s slide against the greenback. It briefly surpassed Saudi as China’s leading crude supplier in May and will strengthen its position over the next decade as it builds a second pipeline to the country, according to BMI Research: Saudi Arabia isn’t about to take the challenge lying down.

State-owned Saudi Aramco is looking at multibillion-dollar deals to buy marketing, refining and retail assets from China’s CNPC, it has been reported earlier this month. It’s already receiving record quantities of crude at

its leased storage tanks on Japan’s Okinawa archipelago. Sabic, the world’s biggest chemicals company after BASF, is planning at least three joint venture projects in China, Bloomberg’s Deema Almashabi reported overnight.

This activity takes a leaf from the playbook of the Seven Sisters, the British and United States giants who dominated global oil trade through the middle of the 20th century by owning every bit of the supply chain from the well to the pump.

If you own the refinery, you can choose to buy crude from your own oilfields rather than the competition’s.

Whether the strategy succeeds will be an interesting test of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s efforts to reform the country’s state-owned companies. Shaking up ‘zombie enterprises’ by allowing more international investment is one thing; giving foreign governments a bigger say. - Bloomberg News

B4

TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

MARKET MSM index edges down

OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ....................................... 5,926.32 ...............5,915.27 ...................5,924.02 ...................5,925.05...................-1.03 .................. -0.02 Financial Index .....................................7,341.95 ...............7,303.45 ................... 7,303.45 ................... 7,324.01................-20.56 .................. -0.28 Industrial Index .................................... 7,367.63 ...............7,353.24 ................... 7,353.24 ................... 7,364.73................ -11.49 .................. -0.16 Services Index .......................................3,277.44 .............. 3,272.34 ................... 3,273.08 ................... 3,277.44..................-4.36 .................. -0.13 MSM SHARIAH INDEX.......................910.29 ..................909.00 .......................909.91 ...................... 909.06....................0.85 ...................0.09 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 23,716,829...................5,099,261 ................. 1,096 ................14,719,615,220 ................ 10 ......................14 ....................22 .........................46

Monday’s top gainer was Oman Textiles, up by 5.79%, while Global Financial Investment

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR MONDAY, OCTOBER 19

was the top loser, down by 6.54% 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

MUSCAT: Shares on the Muscat Securities Market (MSM) edged down on lack of buying support.

The MSM 30 Index remained stable and closed at 5,924.02 points, marginally down by 0.02 per cent. The MSM Sharia Index gained 0.09 per cent to close at 909.91 points.

Bank Nizwa was the most active in terms of volume while Oman Telecommunications Company (Omantel) led in terms of turnover. Monday’s top gainer was Oman Textiles, up by 5.79 per cent, while Global Financial Investment was the top loser.

As many as 1,096 trades were executed in the session generating a turnover of OMR5.09 million with 23.7 million shares changing hands. Out of 46 traded securities, 10 advanced, 14 declined and 22 remained unchanged. Omani investors were net buyers to the tune of OMR1.63 million worth of shares, while foreign investors, who were net sellers, sold shares amounting to OMR1.51 million followed by GCC and Arab investors at OMR127,000.

Financial Index retreated 0.28 per cent to close at 7,303.45 points.

HSBC Bank, Bank Dhofar, Takaful Oman and Al Madina Investments increased 2.61 per cent, 2.09 per cent, 1.90 per cent and 1.67 per cent respectively. Global Financial Investment, Oman & Emirates Holding, Al Anwar Holding, Ahli Bank and Bank Muscat decreased 6.54 per cent, 4.50 per cent, 3.02 per cent, 1.45 per cent and 1.10 per cent, respectively.

Industrial Index closed at 7,353.24 points, down by 0.16 per cent. Oman Textiles, Raysut Cement, Oman Cement and Oman Cables increased 5.79 per cent, 1.36 per cent, 0.45 per cent and 0.26 per cent respectively. Oman Fisheries, Voltamp Energy, Al Maha Ceramics, Galfar Engineering and Gulf International Chemicals declined 3.45 per cent, 2.22 per cent, 1.23

per cent, 1.11 per cent and 1.04 per cent respectively.

Services Index declined 0.13 per cent and closed at 3,273.08 points. Sohar Power increased 0.56 per cent to close at OMR0.358. OIFC, Sembcorp Salalah and Omantel decreased 1.57 per cent, 0.36 per cent and 0.31 per cent respectively.

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

OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN .................................................... 1,701,710 .......200,635..................... 47 ............0.117 ........... 0.120 ........... 0.117 ............0.118 ............. 0.115 ............ 0.003.............2.609 ................0.118 .............. 0.118...................0.120................. 236,036,909 .......0.100 OM0000002549 ...........BANK DHOFAR ............................................................ 493,784 .........120,484.....................20 ........... 0.250 ...........0.250 ...........0.244 .......... 0.244 .............0.239 ........... 0.005.............2.092 ................0.244 .............0.236...................0.244 ................. 376,913,765 ........0.100 OM0000001962............AL MADINA INVESTMENT .......................................6,000 .................. 366........................1 ............0.061 ........... 0.061 ...........0.061 ........... 0.061 .............0.060 ............0.001 ............. 1.667 ................0.061 ..............0.059...................0.061...................12,636,234 .........0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT ........................................................ 12,877 .............14,393........................2 ............1.120 ........... 1.120............ 1.110 ............1.120 ............. 1.105.............0.015 ............. 1.357 ................ 1.110 ...............1.110...................1.120 ................. 224,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000003711 ............SOHAR POWER.............................................................. 13,236 ...............4,739........................6 ........... 0.356 ...........0.360 ...........0.356........... 0.358 .............0.356 ........... 0.002............. 0.562 ................0.360..............0.360...................0.000 .................. 79,121,580 .........0.100 OM0000001749 ............OMAN CEMENT ............................................................35,874 ............ 16,000..................... 10 ........... 0.446 ...........0.446 ...........0.446........... 0.446 .............0.444 ........... 0.002............. 0.450 ................0.446..............0.446...................0.488..................147,569,229 ........0.100 OM0000001707 ............OMAN CABLES INDUSTRY.......................................18,712 ............ 36,067........................3 ............1.920 ........... 1.940 ...........1.920............1.925 .............1.920 ........... 0.005.............0.260 ................1.940..............1.940...................1.960..................172,672,500........0.100 OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN ................................. 184,000 ........... 55,936..................... 10 ........... 0.304...........0.304 ...........0.304 .......... 0.304 .............0.304 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.304............. 0.300...................0.306 .................407,575,916 ........0.100 OM0000001533 ............OMINVEST .................................................................... 599,152...........303,171..................... 26 ........... 0.506 ...........0.506 ...........0.506........... 0.506 .............0.506 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.506..............0.506...................0.508 ................. 279,747,991 ........0.100 OM0000002176 ............AL JAZEERA STEEL PRODUCTS ................................258 .....................49........................1 ............0.190 ........... 0.190 ...........0.190........... 0.190 .............0.190 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.190............. 0.000...................0.190................... 23,730,612 .........0.100 OM0000002226 ...........AL JAZEERA SERVICES ..............................................3,000 ...............1,236........................1 ............0.412 ........... 0.412 ...........0.412 ............0.416 ............. 0.416............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.412 ..............0.410...................0.414...................25,460,978.........0.100

Emerging stocks rise Most emerging-market stocks climbed as positive earnings from India and gains in Turkish shares helped extend a rally that’s boosted riskier assets this month. Weaker commodity prices weighed on South African gold producers as Russia’s ruble fell with oil.

The Borsa Istanbul 100 Index jumped 1.5 per cent after German Chancellor Angela Merkel argued in favour of €3 billion ($3.4 billion) of aid to Turkey. Gold Fields and AngloGold Ashanti lost at least 3.8 per cent in Johannesburg after bullion retreated for the third day.

The MSCI Emerging Markets Index was little changed at 865.40 in London, after swinging from gains and losses of as much as 0.4 per cent.

The gauge has rallied 9.3 per cent in October driven in part by waning bets for the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates this year. While data on Monday showed China’s economy grew at a faster pace than anticipated in the third quarter, the 6.9 per cent rate of expansion was the slowest since 2009.

“If the data in China stabilises, and it’s not clear the Fed will hike in December, then EM equities can continue to rally," said Michael Wang, a strategist at hedge fund Amiya Capital in London, who prefers stocks in South Korea, India and China over those in Thailand, Brazil and Turkey.

OM0000002275 ...........SHELL OMAN MARKETING ........................................ 620 ...............1,240........................1 ........... 2.000...........2.000 ...........2.000 .......... 2.000 .............2.000 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................2.000 ............ 2.000...................0.000 ................ 190,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES ......................... 871,372.............87,810.....................42 ........... 0.100 ........... 0.102 ...........0.100............0.101 ............. 0.101............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.102..............0.102...................0.103.................... 5,943,165 ..........0.100 OM0000003141 ............ACWA POWER BARKA .............................................. 50,000 ............ 41,200........................3 ........... 0.824 ...........0.824 ...........0.824........... 0.824 .............0.824 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.824............. 0.000...................0.820 .................131,840,000........0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES ..................................... 2,095,608......366,679................... 175 ............0.175 ........... 0.176 ...........0.174 ............0.175 ............. 0.175............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.175 .............. 0.174...................0.176 ...................50,863,929.........0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR..................................................................46,828 ............... 8,215........................5 ............0.175 ........... 0.177 ...........0.175 ............0.175 ............. 0.175............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.175 .............. 0.175...................0.177 ................. 252,252,000 .......0.100 OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO....................................................................... 937,872.......... 709,031..................... 33 ............0.756 ........... 0.756 ...........0.756 ............0.756 ............. 0.756............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.756 ..............0.748...................0.760..................492,113,838 ........0.100 OM0000004768 ...........AL MADINA TAKAFUL............................................. 131,069 .............11,234......................11 ........... 0.086 ...........0.086 ...........0.085........... 0.086 .............0.086 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.086..............0.085...................0.086...................15,050,000 .........0.100 OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER................................................ 106,248 ........... 22,845........................5 ............0.216 ........... 0.216 ...........0.215 ............0.215 ............. 0.215............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.215 ..............0.201...................0.215..................145,100,797 ........0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER .................................................. 104,049 ............22,371........................7 ............0.215 ........... 0.215 ...........0.215 ............0.215 ............. 0.215............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.215 ..............0.201...................0.215..................153,597,363 ........0.100 OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION ........................ 449,474 .........730,392..................... 25 ............1.625 ........... 1.625 ...........1.620............1.625 ............. 1.630............-0.005 ........... -0.307 ...............1.620 ..............1.620...................1.630................ 1,218,750,000 ......0.100 OM0000004735 ...........SEMBCORP SALALAH................................................ 41,851 .......... 114,225......................18 ............2.730 ........... 2.730 ...........2.720........... 2.730 .............2.740 ...........-0.010 ........... -0.365 ...............2.730..............2.730...................2.740..................260,598,142........1.000 OM0000001087............OMAN UNITED INSURANCE ................................ 44,500 ............. 11,437........................7 ........... 0.257 ...........0.257 ...........0.257........... 0.257 .............0.259 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.772 ...............0.257..............0.257...................0.259...................25,700,000.........0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ..............49,298 ............ 14,050..................... 10 ........... 0.285 ...........0.285 ...........0.285........... 0.285 .............0.288 ...........-0.003 ........... -1.042 ...............0.285..............0.284...................0.288 ...................5,985,000 ..........0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 796,531..........430,656................... 101 ........... 0.544 ...........0.546 ...........0.536........... 0.540 .............0.546 ...........-0.006 ........... -1.099................0.536..............0.536...................0.540 ...............1,237,584,202 ......0.100 OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 1,851,770....... 164,016..................... 78 ........... 0.090 ...........0.090 ...........0.086........... 0.089 .............0.090 ...........-0.001 ............-1.111 ................0.087..............0.087...................0.089...................25,808,277.........0.100 OM0000005005 ...........ALMAHA CERAMICS ..................................................41,032 ............. 19,777......................12 ........... 0.482 ...........0.482 ...........0.480........... 0.482 .............0.488 ...........-0.006 ........... -1.230 ...............0.480..............0.480...................0.482 ..................25,305,000.........0.100 OM0000002200 ...........AHLI BANK .................................................................... 1,400,200......285,656..................... 39 ........... 0.204...........0.205 ...........0.204 .......... 0.204 .............0.207 ...........-0.003 ........... -1.449 ...............0.204 ............ 0.204...................0.207 .................290,707,373 ........0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 244,640............45,911..................... 26 ............0.191 ........... 0.191............0.187 ........... 0.188 ............. 0.191 ............-0.003 ............-1.571 ................0.187 .............. 0.187...................0.188...................37,600,000.........0.100 OM0000003661 ............VOLTAMP ENERGY .......................................................8,000 ...............3,520........................3 ........... 0.440...........0.440 ...........0.440 .......... 0.440 .............0.450 ...........-0.010 ........... -2.222 ...............0.440..............0.430...................0.440 ..................26,620,000.........0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 1,146,033 ......221,526................... 101 ............0.197 ........... 0.197 ...........0.193 ............0.193 ............. 0.199............-0.006 ............-3.015................0.194.............. 0.193...................0.194...................28,964,475.........0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING........... 949,244 ......... 100,410..................... 25 ............0.105 ........... 0.107 ...........0.105 ........... 0.106 ............. 0.111 ............-0.005 ........... -4.505 ...............0.106..............0.106...................0.108................... 12,918,750 .........0.100 OM0000003125 ............GLOBAL FINANCIAL INVESTMENT ................ 156,607.............15,706........................8 ........... 0.100 ........... 0.101............0.100........... 0.100 .............0.107............-0.007 ........... -6.542 ...............0.101 .............. 0.101...................0.103.................. 20,000,000 ........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 14,591,449 .4,180,983...................862 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......33........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

OM0000001053 ............OMAN TEXTILE HOLDING ................................... 153,032.............61,577..................... 64 ........... 0.392 ........... 0.410 ...........0.390........... 0.402 .............0.380 ........... 0.022............. 5.789 ................0.390..............0.384...................0.390 ...................2,412,000 ..........1.000 OM0000004776 ...........TAKAFUL OMAN INSURANCE ..............................12,500 ...............1,343........................2 ............0.105 ........... 0.108 ...........0.105 ........... 0.107 .............0.105............ 0.002............. 1.905 ................0.108..............0.108................... 0.112 ...................10,700,000 .........0.100 OM0000001301 ............DHOFAR CATTLE FEED .......................................... 210,000 ........... 44,100........................2 ............0.210 ........... 0.210 ...........0.210........... 0.210 .............0.210 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.210..............0.210...................0.217...................16,170,000 .........0.100 OM0000001368 ............CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS IND. ................... 24,500 .................. 853........................3 ........... 0.034 ........... 0.035 ...........0.034........... 0.035 .............0.035 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.035..............0.034...................0.036....................2,975,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001426............OMAN REFRESHMENT ..............................................2,870 ................7,175........................1 ........... 2.500...........2.500 ...........2.500 .......... 2.500 .............2.500 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................2.500 ............ 0.000...................2.500 .................125,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 2,526,785 .......196,471..................... 65 ........... 0.080 ...........0.080 ...........0.076........... 0.078 .............0.078 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.077..............0.076...................0.078..................117,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000004511 ............ALIZZ ISLAMIC BANK.............................................. 362,826 ............25,756......................21 ........... 0.072 ...........0.072 ...........0.070............0.071 ............. 0.071............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.071 ..............0.070...................0.071...................71,000,000.........0.100 OM0000005963 ...........PHOENIX POWER ...................................................... 244,223............37,109..................... 45 ............0.152 ........... 0.152 ........... 0.151 ............0.152 ............. 0.152............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.152 ...............0.151...................0.152..................222,315,422........0.100 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES ........................................................13,735 ...................771........................4 ........... 0.057 ........... 0.057 ...........0.056........... 0.056 .............0.058 ...........-0.002 ........... -3.448 ...............0.056..............0.056...................0.057....................7,000,000 ..........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 3,550,471 ...... 375,154...................207 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........ 9........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BONDS MARKET .................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000004602 ...........BANK MUSCAT CONV. BONDS 4.5 ........................42,214 ...............4,686........................ 1 ............0.111 ............0.111 ............ 0.111 ............0.111..............0.108 ........... 0.003............. 2.778 ................ 0.111 ...............0.111................... 0.115 ................... 33,605,151 .........0.100 OM0000004628 ...........BANK SOHAR BONDS 4.5 ............................................ 6,509 ...................651........................3 ........... 0.100 ........... 0.100 ...........0.100........... 0.100 .............0.100 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.100..............0.100...................0.109.................... 7,150,000 ..........0.100 OM0000004867 ...........BANK MUSCAT C C B 4.5 ......................................... 3,037,297 ......303,790..................... 10 ............0.101 ........... 0.101............0.100........... 0.100 .............0.100 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.100..............0.100...................0.105...................31,964,268 .........0.100 OM0000005971 ............B.MUSCAT COMPL. CONVR. B.B.3.5 ................... 2,488,889......233,998......................13 ........... 0.094 ........... 0.095 ...........0.094........... 0.094 .............0.094 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.094..............0.095...................0.100................... 30,471,192 .........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 5,574,909 ......543,124..................... 27 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........4........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

– United Securities/Bloomberg News

INDIAN MARKETS

BULLION

Sensex rises; rupee appreciates Spotlight on London gold

MUMBAI: Both the S&P BSE benchmark Sensex and CNX Nifty ended at more than 8-week high at 27,364.92 and at 8,275.05 on persistent buying mainly in Realty, Teck, IT, and refinery sectors on the back of persistent foreign capital inflows.

Shares of refinery sector firmed up in view of stronger-than-expected second quarter results from Reliance Industries on last Friday.

The Sensex opened higher at

27,305.62 and hovered in a range of 27,387.91 and 27,246.79 before ending at more than 8-week high at 27,364.92, showing a gain of 150.32 or 0.55 per cent. The Sensex had last ended at 27,366.07 on August 21, 2015. It has gained by 585.26 or 2.19 per cent in three days.

The CNX 50-share Nifty firmed up by 36.90 points or 0.45 per cent to more than 8-week high at 8,275.05. It had also ended at 8,299.95 on August 21, 2015.

Marginally higher The rupee ended marginally higher against the American currency at 64.80 per dollar on selling of dollars by banks and exporters in view of firm trend in equity market.

Persistent foreign capital inflows mainly boosted the rupee value against the dollar, a forex dealer said. The domestic unit opened higher at 64.77 per dollar as against last Friday's closing level of 64.81 at Forex market. - PTI

market at Vienna meeting LONDON: Gold industry won’t just be guessing where prices are heading at its annual gathering in Vienna this week. It will ponder how to change London’s spot market, the biggest in the world.

The London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), which oversees trading and is holding its annual conference, has invited proposals on how to improve the city’s over-the- counter market and suggested more detailed reporting of transactions. At the same time, the producerfunded World Gold Council has also agreed with five banks to talk about potentially starting standardised central clearing and listed derivatives.

London’s market, where custom deals are made on delivery times and size, has come under focus as regulators around the world scrutinised commodities trading and lawmakers have pressed for tighter bank controls.

The city has for centuries relied

on those trading to manage the risk of default or non-payment. In most other places, transactions are backed by exchanges that offer set contracts.

Change coming?

The LBMA said on October 9 that it wants to study ways of boosting transparency and invited the market to suggest improvements, including considering a new electronic platform that may lower trading costs and improve efficiency. The association’s gettogether, where more than 600

people from banks, mining companies, retailers and exchanges meet, will provide a chance for more unofficial talks.

Moving trading to an exchange would be a bigger overhaul, something that the LBMA said in April is unlikely because it may increase costs. The World Gold Council said in a letter last month to the LBMA and the city’s platinum and palladium association that it and a group of five banks, including Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, are talking about making changes. - Bloomberg News

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ROUND-UP

Hyundai’s dazzling new Tucson to set new standards in compact SUVs

Now in its third generation, the all-new Tucson will be of high importance to Hyundai’s Africa and Middle East business, having proven extremely popular with the region’s customers in its previous incarnations

GRAN CANARIA (SPAIN): Hyundai Motor Company has officially launched the All-new Tucson, compact SUV, in the region.

Offering a bold and athletic design, new technological features and class-leading driving performance, the new model has been designed to set new standards for its sector and provide an enticing alternative that ticks all the boxes for young families looking for a highly versatile car.

The event held recently at Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, saw guests from Hyundai distributors across MENA region, media houses and distinguished guests arrive for the launch and test drive, says a press release.

Now in its third generation, the all-new Tucson will be of high importance to Hyundai’s Africa and Middle East business, having proven extremely popular with the region’s customers in its previous incarnations. In 2014, the Korean brand’s compact SUV Tucson was its third biggest-selling model in the Middle East.

Jin (James) Kim, vice-president and head of Hyundai Africa and Middle East, said: “The all-new Tucson is an extremely important car for Hyundai in the Africa and Middle East region and we are confident that this new model will build on the huge success of its predecessor. It is a bold new car that brings to life our claim ‘New Thinking, New Possibilities’ and will continue to help change perceptions of the brand.”

Adopting Hyundai’s acclaimed Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design approach, the all-new Tucson com-

Motor has eight manufacturing bases and seven design and technical centres worldwide and in 2014, sold 4.96 million vehicles globally.

With these remarkable achievements, Hyundai is moving closer to its ambition of becoming the ‘most-loved automotive brand’.

bines the strong proportions and profile of an SUV with a sense of sleekness and agility. The front is dominated by the Hyundai signature hexagonal front grille, sleek headlamps and uniquely sculpted bumper. The expressive ‘Z’ character-line above the rear wheel arches gives the sculptural side profile a powerful stance, while the rear has a clean design with horizontal lines that flow from the rear wheel arches, accented by slim tail lights.

The car is equipped with the latest in technology and features as well as providing family comfort, a new athletic design but maintains the ruggedness of an SUV perfect for small families and mediumlevel executives.

When developing the all-new Tucson, Hyundai focused on delivering ride comfort without compromising driving dynamics,

and so every element of the chassis has been developed to ensure enhanced high-speed and cornering stability. Best-in-class aerodynamics and structural rigidity are combined with a greatly improved front and rear suspension and the integration of enhanced noise reduction techniques.

Refined interior benefits The refined interior benefits from the careful attention paid by designers to the ergonomics and use of high quality and soft-touch materials along with passenger power seats offering unbeatable lumbar support. Additional cabin features include a newly designed dashboard featuring an 8” display and extended super vision cluster and new door trims for a sportier feel in addition to a panoramic roof for those seeking more space.

As regards mention of more space, the new Tucson has 10 percent more luggage space in the trunk than its predecessor.

The Tucson is available with ten exterior colour options and comes in 4WD and NU 2.0 MPI petrol engine with a fixed 6 speed automatic transmission gearbox with Shiftronic manual shifting mode, depending on specification and market availability.

The engine also features a water jacket insert system that cools the upper level of the engine to lower cylinder head temperature due to high combustion which permits leaner air/fuel mixture for enhanced efficiency.

When it comes to protecting occupants the all-new Tucson has been designed to be one of the safest cars in its class, as reflected by the 5-star rating it has received

in both the European and North American NCAP crash tests.

When it comes to active safety systems, the model can be specified with hi-tech features such as a parking assist, rear camera, downhill break control and hill-start assist control in addition to blind spot detectors, which is installed for the first time by Hyundai on a compact SUV model.

With families in mind, Hyundai Motor Company designers took time to ensure the new compact SUV offers the highest levels of comfort and versatility. At the same time, taking the region’s climate into account, rear air vents and a panoramic sunroof are also available.

Established in 1967, Hyundai Motor Company is committed to becoming a lifetime partner in automobiles and beyond. Hyundai

Uncompromising quality Hyundai as a brand has made significant strides on the back of sophisticated product design, quality, safety technology and exceptional value. No wonder Hyundai has become one of the top automotive brands in the world. One has to test drive and discover what millions of satisfied Hyundai owners already experience and enjoy – Hyundai stands for uncompromising quality.

Hyundai has a strong presence in the passenger vehicles category in Oman with its wide range of sedans and SUVs each in various trim variants. Hyundai sedan range in Oman includes: Accent, Elantra, Sonata and Azera, apart from the trendy Veloster and Veloster Turbo. Grand i10, i20, i30, i40 form the cutting edge ‘i’ series range designed to meet global customer needs. Hyundai SUV range — Tucson, Santa Fe and Grand Santa Fe — is definitely the pick of the lot. Centennial and Genesis in the luxury car segment have been well received and are going from strength to strength.

OTE Group is the exclusive dealer of Hyundai’s range of vehicles in Oman. With a nationwide network of showrooms and service centres, OTE Group ensures that Hyundai customers are never far from getting high quality service.

B6

TUESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

ROUND-UP Ford launches new Explorer in Oman

The 2016 Explorer gets a new look, a new engine, a new trim level and a raft of new technologies

MUSCAT: The all-new Ford Explorer was launched in Oman at a well attended function. Marianne Papas, national sales manager, Ford Middle East, as well as prominent personalities from the public and the private sector were also present, says a press release.

“At Arabian Car Marketing, it is a matter of tremendous satisfaction that Ford has made a prominent place in the hearts of consumers in Oman. Many of the models such as the Expedition, F-150, Ranger, Focus and more have become household names,” said the senior ACM spokesperson in his message.

“Building on 25 years of innovation and sales leadership, the new Explorer is built with even more smart technology. It shall continue to lead the way in innovation, performance and fun. We are confident that the new Explorer will exceed expectations of our customers,” he concluded.

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THE VIDEO

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N .C O M

Refreshing look Sharing interesting insights on the all-new Ford Explorer, Marianne Papas said: “The new Explorer has an unmatched combination of power, luxury and advanced technology features. It’s at the top of the midsize SUV sales.

“Explorer is one of our most recognised Ford nameplates in the region and drives overall Ford brand opinion. The refreshed 2016 Ford Explorer is better looking than it’s ever been!”

The 2016 Explorer gets a new

look, a new engine, a new trim level and a raft of new technologies.

It will continue to be available in base, XLT, Limited and Sports trim lines. The Explorer is equipped with a new fascia, LED signature lights, new grille, new hood, new fenders, all new wheel lineup, new rims, new roof wreck, new tail lamps, new lift gate, new exhaust tips, powerfold third row that gives versatility to the customers and much more.

New tech bits include an available front and 180-degree wide rear-view camera with washers, parking assist system that can now park the Explorer perpendicularly, while parking sensors are now available for the front. The handsfree, foot-activated power lift gate that debuted on the Escape is now

available for the Explorer. The standard engine on base, XLT and Limited models will be a normallyaspirated 3.5-litre V6 producing an estimated 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft. of torque.

The exterior of the Explorer is very impressive encompassing a new signature lighting that surrounds the LED headlamps, giving the vehicle a continuous glow. Other exterior updates include a standard dual-panel moonroof, premium silver-painted front and rear skid plate elements, and an all-new 18 and 20-inch wheel line-up.

In the Explorer the intelligent four-wheel drive with Terrain Management System is ready for any adventure. It reassesses conditions about 20 times faster than the blink of an eye — providing precise

handling and traction. It continuously monitors wheel speed, throttle position and steering wheel angle to determine vehicle conditions and driver intent. The system then determines the optimal amount of front and rear torque for the given conditions to prevent slip from even occurring, which helps keep the vehicle sure-footed on virtually any terrain. In sand, grass or gravel mode, the antilock braking system changes its pulse rate, which allows material to build up in front of the wheels, acting as a doorstop of sorts to help slow momentum.

Interior changes help enhance quietness in the cabin. There are new door seals, and an enhanced sound package includes engine subframe mounts specially tuned to reduce vibration. Acoustic glass

is used on the windshield and front doors on XLT and higher trim levels. The new Explorer benefits from an improved suspension for better handling and a quiet cabin, enabling a comfortable ride even when the pavement turns to dirt.

Ford completely retuned the Explorer chassis to clearly differentiate the driving experiences offered by the XLT and Sport models.

The suspension uses MacPherson construction with an isolated subframe and 32-millimetre stabilizer bar at the front, while an independent multilink rear set-up uses a 22-millimetre stabiliser bar.

Explorer Sport customers looking for a more dynamic driving experience will benefit from unique steering gear, front and rear springs, struts and rear dampers.

The 2016 Explorer boasts of advanced safety features to reward customers with happy journeys.

The features include second generation driver and front passenger, side seat airbags, 3rd row safety canopy with rollover sensor, AdvanceTrac with roll stability control, BLIS with cross traffic alert, front 180 degree camera with washer, perpendicular parking and more.

Spectacular event The entertaining evening also featured a one-of-a-kind laser performance. This spectacular act was then followed by a dramatic unveiling of the 2016 Ford Explorer. The all-new Explorer is now on display at the Ford showroom, Wattayah.

SOCIAL SERVICE

ahlibank blood donation drive gets overwhelming response MUSCAT: ahlibank recently organised a blood donation drive at its head office in Wattayah.

Held under the theme – ‘The gift of life’, the blood donation drive garnered an overwhelming response from ahlibank’s customers and staff alike, says a press release.

Expressing his satisfaction over the initiative, Lloyd Maddock CEO, ahlibank, said: “As a responsible corporate entity, at ahlibank we are deeply committed to the community; and the prime aim of our ‘The gift of life’ campaign is to contribute towards the same.”

“We feel that it is of critical importance to ensure that people actively think of regular blood donations; the process takes a little time and effort, but the same is priceless towards a noble cause. On behalf of my team at ahlibank I would like to thank all the customers and employees that came forward and donated blood,” he elaborated.

As one of Oman’s leading

banks, ahlibank is committed to supporting the government’s efforts to ensure the constant availability of blood in the Blood Bank of Oman. Over 100 enthusiastic

participants including employees, customers and visitors participated and donated blood at the Blood Bank van organised by ahlibank this year.

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ROUND-UP

GAC claims award for excellent sales growth

C E R T I F I C AT E P R O G R A M M E

This honour was

ISB, Bahwan Cybertek begins programme for business executives

conferred by the

MUSCAT: The Indian School of Business (ISB), a leading management and executive education provider in Asia, along with Bahwan Cybertek Ltd, a global business group, announced the successful commencement of the Certificate Programme in General Management for business executives in Oman spanning over six months.

Business executives in Oman learnt global best practices in personal leadership excellence at the programme organised by ISB and Bahwan Cybertek, says a press release.

The programme, specially designed for working executives, has six modules with the first on personal leadership excellence, imparting essential leadership skills to senior executives for enhancing their personal efficiency, lead and motivate teams for greater performance and take strategic business decisions to address the global and complex business environment.

The highly interactive and reflective session used cases, videos and role plays which provided the

Automotive Company

base for leadership interactions and introspections. It encouraged participants to share their stories, influence and learn from each other’s experiences. The participants learnt about their individual leadership styles and the strategies for leading change, managing conflict and delegating effectively for business success. Senior executives from leading Omani organisations in sectors like banking, information technology and logistics amongst others, participated in the programme.

After the successful completion of this module, participants are currently applying their classroom learning at their respective organisations, through the action learning projects and are looking forward to the next module that focuses on marketing excellence for profitable growth due to start in November.

The ideal candidates for this programme are executives with more than 10 years of experience who aspire to reach the next level of leadership through enhancing their general management competencies.

Japanese automobile giant Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) on General

MUSCAT: Mitsubishi Oman, represented by General Automotive Company (GAC) in Oman, has been awarded for having achieved excellent sales growth for the fiscal year ended March 2015.

This honour was conferred by the Japanese automobile giant Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) on General Automotive Company, says a press release.

GAC, a part of the Zubair Automotive Group, has been associated with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation from 1973 and has since been the sole dealer for the brand in the Sultanate. GAC has, over the years, developed an excellent relationship with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation and works closely to ensure their customers in the Sultanate have access to a seamless experience with Mitsubishi. In addition to previous accolades from the Japanese automobile conglomerate, this latest award presented to GAC for excellent sales growth for the 2014 fiscal year is

yet another momentous milestone in a close-knit relationship that spans over four decades.

On receiving the award, Mark Tomlinson group general manager of Zubair Automotive Group, said: “Around the world, and certainly Oman, Mitsubishi is a name that is synonymous with automotive quality and reliability. With one of the widest dealer networks in the world and certainly within the region, it is truly praiseworthy that GAC, as one of these distributors, has been regularly commended

by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation for its efforts and achievements in the Sultanate. Receiving this prestigious award is testament to our commitment to the region and it is very encouraging for our team here.”

GAC has been a pioneer in the Omani automotive industry. With a constantly motivated workforce managed by professionally-led, supervisor-level employees and a dedicated sales team, there is lit-

tle doubt as to why GAC enjoys one of the largest customer loyalty bases in the Sultanate. Combining the best of commercial, multi-purpose, sedans and sports vehicles – their superior product offering ensures that they have built up an extensive customer base that have developed a strong allegiance for the Mitsubishi brand. Moreover, these customers not only keep coming back for more, but also become individual brand ambassadors by recommending the brand to their acquaintances. As a result, customer relationships form the heart of everything GAC does.

As a matter of fact, GAC is often identified and commended in the market for the consistent amount of activities they indulge in, be it customer focused, brand targeted or actual tactical activities. These include an assortment of customer-relationship building initiatives such as Pajero meets, loyaltyrewarding events and showroom displays among others. From time

to time GAC also launches innovative special promotions which include complimentary AC checkups, flexible finance schemes, and seasonal discounts for customers in Oman.

“As trends and demands in the commercial and passenger vehicle segments in Oman are continuously changing with economic and infrastructural growth, it is no longer simply about selling vehicles or parts or after-sales operations, but providing total solutions and genuine ownership satisfaction experience for our customers.

This is why maintaining and building consumer confidence is at the centre of everything we do,” added Mark Tomlinson. “Our efforts over the years, coupled with the superior product offerings from Mitsubishi, have ensured that we have built an extensive customer base with a strong allegiance for the Mitsubishi brand and the phenomenal sales growth that we have achieved.”

U N I QU E I N I T I AT I V E

Bank Muscat Open Day to commence in Nizwa tomorrow MUSCAT: Drawing on the huge response evoked by the Open Day in Muscat organised by Bank Muscat to provide one of the best offers on personal, home and auto finance with a range of add-on benefits, the exclusive event moves to benefit citizens and residents in the wilayat of Nizwa.

The second in the series of Open Day events will be held at Lulu Hypermarket Nizwa tomorrow and the day after from 10am to 10pm.

The unique initiative launched by the flagship financial services provider in the Sultanate as part of its ‘Let’s Do More’ vision and commitment to partnership in enhancing banking service, is aimed at simplifying and enhancing con-

venience to help customers meet their financial requirements, says a press release.

The bank is committing 24hour disbursement of finance along with free Lulu Bank Muscat credit card, Bank Muscat prepaid card preloaded with OMR25 and free personal protection insurance plan. The offer is valid only at the Open Day venue and not at any Bank Muscat branches.

To avail the exclusive offer, customers are required to submit copy of national identity card or resident card, salary assignment letter, passport copy for expatriates and address proof on water or electricity bill or rental agreement.

This is the first time a finance of-

The bank is committing 24-hour disbursement of finance along with free Lulu Bank Muscat credit card, Bank Muscat prepaid card preloaded with OMR25 and free personal protection insurance plan. The offer is valid only at the Open Day venue

fer of this kind with a range of addon benefits is being made available to the largest banking family in Oman. The concept of the Open Day is to provide a unique oppor-

tunity for customers to avail personal finance at their convenience.

The bank has lined up Open Day events across the Sultanate with the third event to be held at

P R O M O T I N G H E A LT H Y E AT I N G

SPAR picks ‘Kid’s Healthy Lunch’ winners MUSCAT: SPAR Oman organised ‘Kid’s Healthy Lunch Competition’ recently at its SPAR Madinat Qaboos outlet.

A competitive positive spirit was visible, with over 30 women passionate about their cooking participating in the programme to display their prowess.

The theme ‘Kid’s Healthy Lunch Competition’ was organised keeping in mind the concept of healthy living and children’s nutrition. Cheered by their spouses and children, the event commenced with the introduction of Master Chef Pragneesh from Just Grill, a casual-dining restaurant, says a press release.

Devendra Kumar, head SPAR Oman, said: “We were glad to witness a good response to this

competition. We want to promote healthy eating through this activity. The creativity shown by the participants was highly commendable. We plan to introduce great quality products which promote health and conduct similar promotions in the near

future also.”

The recipes were judged based on various parameters such as nutrition, presentation, taste and ingredients used. Each participant explained the speciality of their recipe and also nutrition elements used for maintaining good

health and balanced diet.

Based on the scores, the chef announced the winner of competition. Saba Naveed won the first prize of dinner set, Kiran won the second prize of cooking set.

Tripti and Vinti won the juicer mixer as a third prize. The recipe of Saba will also be featured in SPAR Kitsu food menu.

The contestants registered themselves by signing up on facebook.com/SPAROman. The entry forms were also available at various SPAR outlets.

Commenting on the competition, Saba said: “I am so excited and thrilled to be the winner of SPAR Healthy Lunch Competition and would like to thank the organisers for organising such competitions.”

Lulu Sohar on October 28 and 29 and the fourth event in Sur at Makkah Hypermarket on November 4 and 5. The concluding event will be held at Lulu Salalah on November 11 and 12. The Open Day timing at all venues will be from 10am to 10pm.

Bank Muscat is proud to organise the exclusive Open Day events across the Sultanate. The unique opportunity stemming from the ‘Let’s Do More’ vision reiterates the bank’s commitment to extending the helping hand to fulfill the financial needs of customers.

In step with responsible banking, the focus of Bank Muscat is clear – create a sustainable financial platform for the nation and

people and thereby contribute to the country’s progress and development. Committed to supporting economic growth and sustainable development, the bank seizes every opportunity to reiterate partnership in building the nation by creating opportunities for individuals and businesses to grow and prosper.

Doing more is the forte of Bank Muscat - more for the economy, more for the community and more for the individual. The bank has incorporated sustainable best practices and is fully equipped to guide customers through all stages of banking life, whether it be savings, investments, financing or just reliable financial advice.

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TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

ROUND-UP

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‘Festival of Joy’ still on for Toyota sedan customers Toyota’s winning passenger car range has already won over many hearts with its style, quality and value

MUSCAT: The Festival of Joy campaign that has been announced

by Toyota is offering many benefits on the new 2016 sedan models.

According to the spokesperson, “The promotion will go on until November 12 and the benefits will be applicable on all purchases, except those made by government organisations and ministries. Customers can avail of a service package for upto three years or 30,000km whichever is earlier (covering three services at 10,000km service interval for select petrol models based on normal operating conditions). There

is also a comprehensive one year insurance (Oman only) on select 2015 YM and 2016 YM models of 2015 production. Insurance benefit would be given up to the extent applicable for private vehicles only.

Also available is first year registration on select 2015 YM and 2016 YM models of 2015 production.”

Terms and conditions apply.

All the above benefits are model specific and may vary accordingly.

At the showroom, customers can take a close, first-hand look at the excitingly new 2016 passenger car range, says a press release.

Toyota’s winning passenger car range has already won over many hearts with its style, quality and value. The range includes Yaris Hatchback, Yaris Sedan, Corolla,

NEW ADDITION

Camry, Aurion and Avalon.

The 2016 Yaris Hatchback has a sporty design and an impressive profile. Class-leading performance is powered by a 1.5 L VVT-i engine with a maximum output of 107 HP and a maximum torque of 14.4 Kg-m. A worthy choice, the 2016 Toyota Yaris is an exciting sedan, available in 1.5 L and 1.3 L engine choices; Toyota Yaris also has a compact 4-speed automatic gearbox delivering excellent response and a smooth gearshift.

The Toyota Corolla is a pride to own and a joy to drive. It offers two engine variants. Customers can choose a powerful 2.0 L Engine with maximum power of 143 HP (Net). The second option is a 1.6 L engine delivering 121 HP (Net).

The recently launched 2016 Toyota Camry has raised the bar yet again in the mid-size sedan segment with a bold, bumper-tobumper redesign to open a new chapter in the illustrious history of the world’s most popular mid-size sedan. With a striking new design, and more dynamic handling, the new Toyota Camry is truly in a league of its own.

The luxurious Aurion is available with 6-speed multimode automatic transmission, with a 3.5 -litre engine and a maximum output of 268 HP, delivering top-class level fuel economy and a powerful driving experience.

The Toyota Avalon is a sedan par excellence. It utilises a 3.5-litre, six-cylinder engine that features Dual VVT-i. The V6 Engine produces 273 horsepower and provides the Avalon with remarkable acceleration. This flagship model from the Toyota stable redefines luxury and sophistication.

In Oman, the nationwide parts and service network of Saud Bahwan Automotive supports Toyota’s outstanding product quality. No wonder then that today, Toyota is one of the most trusted and well-known brands.

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WAT C H B R A N D

Al Felaij introduces Albert Riele in Oman

MUSCAT: Al Felaij Watches has launched the top Swiss watches brand Albert Riele in Oman. All the new collection is now available at Al Felaij Watches located in Muscat City Centre and Muscat Grand Mall, says a press release.

The watch was founded in 1881, in the home of watchmaking, Switzerland. Almost 150 years later, Albert Riele is a modern brand, with a tasteful logo that reflects the character and a whole array of fabulous timepieces. The Albert Riele watches re-

define style. The watches boldly embody perfect design solutions in a fresh, modern spirit.

The design of Albert Riele timepieces is a meeting of tradition, an inherent measure of chic, with the youthful energy of their talented designers’ vision. Add to that a hint of considered extravaganza and exquisite detailing and you have a treasured timepiece on your wrist. Albert Riele watches are rooted in tradition but whose identity is reflected in big city names.

PROMOTION

McDonald’s launches new premium coffee selection

Cash gifts offer on JAC trucks ends on Nov. 16 MUSCAT: The guaranteed cash gift promotion by Towell Auto Centre (TAC), one of country’s leading automobile distributors, on its range of JAC trucks will end on November 16.

Available in 3 tonne (2.7L) and 4 tonne (3.8L), JAC Motors lightduty trucks offer heavy duty performance and are reliable, rigid, safe and suitable for various road conditions. TAC is offering a cash gift of OMR650 on 3 tonne truck that is available at a starting price of OMR6,499. The 4 tonne truck

is available at a reasonable price of OMR8,499 and OMR850 is the cash gift on offer.

“JAC’s light-duty trucks are developed over many years of R&D based on advanced European and Asian platform technologies. Low oil consumption, low using cost, high performance, smart pricing, strong load capacity, solidity and durability – are some of the other strengths of JAC trucks,” said a senior spokesperson of TAC. In Oman, TAC is the sole distributor of JAC light-duty trucks.

SOULFUL EVENING

Charity Wing to host Sufi musical event on October 30 MUSCAT: Mornings in Oman have just got better as McDonald’s introduces its new premium coffee menu under its McCafe brand. Made with 100 per cent Arabica beans, the new additions cater to consumers who want convenient access to simply great coffee on the go.

As of October 15, the new Cappuccino, Latte, Mocha, Americano and Espresso varieties will be served all day at McDonald’s

restaurants in Oman, in addition to hot chocolate and tea, says a press release.

“The heart of our business stems from providing high quality products conveniently to all customers. The new McCafe coffee menu brings the best flavours that Arabica beans can offer through our restaurants and drive-thru,” said Ali K. Daud, president and development licensee of McDonald’s Oman.

MUSCAT: The Charity Wing of Indian Social Club (ISC) will bring an evening of soulful Sufi music to Muscat on Friday, October 30.

Deepmala, presented by Minara, will feature the Sufi musical quartet ‘Char Yaar’ and Kathak dancer Ipshita Misra. Deepmala will be held at the Oman Auditorium of the Al Bustan Palace - A Ritz Carlton Hotel, says a press release.

‘Deepmala’ is a colourful string of musical gems threaded around the central theme of light — the light of love, knowledge and hope.

A beautiful start to the festive season as well as a reminder to each of us to do what we can to brighten the lives of the less fortunate.

Padmini Atal, co-convenor of the ISC Charity Wing, said: “Char Yaar combines the ancient tradi-

tions of Sufi music with a modern sensibility. As the name suggests, the group is an amalgamation of four talented artistes — vocalist and poet Madan Gopal Singh, ace guitarist and banjo player Deepak Castelino, young and soulful sarod player Pritam Ghosal and the energetic multiple percussionist Gurmeet Singh. These four friends or Char Yaar have taken

Sufi music to the world by blending music and poetry of different cultures into their compositions.

We can’t wait to witness their renditions here in Oman.”

Char Yaar transcends cultural barriers, drawing inspiration from sources as eclectic as Rumi, John Lennon, Khwaja Ghulam Farid, Rabindranath Tagore and Brecht among many others.

C E L E B R AT I O N

OAB marks Omani Women’s Day MUSCAT: The Social Committee at Oman Arab Bank (OAB) celebrated Omani Women’s Day at most of the bank’s branches across the Sultanate.

Omani Women’s Day was celebrated at the branches of Nizwa, Barka, Ibra, Salalah as well as at the main office in Al Ghubra.

The members of the Social Committee were distributed among all the branches to participate in the celebration and to affirm the constructive and effective communication between head office and branches, says a press release.

The celebration at the head office was hosted by the anchorwoman Dr Kaltham Al Zadjali in the presence of Amin Al Husseini, chief executive officer of the bank,

with the participation of all the head office female employees. On the sidelines of the celebration, there was an exhibition featuring handicrafts products created by the bank’s female staff.

After cutting the cake made especially for the occasion, souvenirs were given to the chief guest

and to all the female employees.

“It is truly a pleasure to celebrate Omani Women’s Day, especially at this time as the felicitous occasion of the 45th National Day is drawing near, and we seize this opportunity to offer our greetings to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who has built our country and nation, and gave the Omani woman her right to participate in the society and to work with the man on equal basis to build a strong and prosperous country. Indeed, Omani women have proved themselves in all domains and became on par with men. We, at Oman Arab Bank, encourage Omani women and provide them with all the support they need to succeed and to perform well at work,” stated Al Husseini.

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WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2015

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Young Alexander in a four-way tie for lead at Muscat Hills >C4

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Thrilling start to RS:X Worlds China’s Peina Chen in the women’s fleet and France’s Pierre Le Coq in the men’s event hogged the limelight on the opening day’s qualifying races of the RS:X Worlds at the Al Musannah Sports City ON TOP: China’s Peina Chen had a field day at the Al Musannah Sports City.

MUSCAT: The RS:X World Windsurfing Championships in Mussanah, Oman, got off to a spectacular start on Monday with all six scheduled races completed in 10-11 knots of breeze.

Racing for the 145 athletes is split into two fleets — men and women — and each fleet has a Blue and Yellow group selected according to daily rankings. Each group contests three races per day in the opening qualifying rounds.

On Monday, the 60-strong women’s fleet was first off and Peina Chen (CHN), was unstoppable.

The lightweight, 26-year-old who recently finished second at the ISAF Sailing World Cup Qingdao, led all three races including the

last which she won by an impressive 1 minute 6 seconds. She goes into day two with a three-point lead over Bryony Shaw (GBR) — world Number 1-ranked women’s windsurfer. In third place after Day One was Malgorzata Bialecka (POL) with 10 points.

A delighted Peina Chen gave some insight on her edge today: “My increased fitness and my ability to sustain the pumping played a big part. Also, I have spent the last two weeks here in Oman training so I am familiar with the conditions, including the hot air. It is a great venue for this sort of event because everything is so convenient and easy and the sailing conditions are superb.”

FOOTBALL

Oman to play friendly against New Zealand

PREPARING THE HARD WAY: Oman national team who take on Turkmenistan on November 17 will test it out against All Whites.

MUSCAT: Oman national football team will play a friendly match against New Zealand as part of the preparations for their next 2008 World Cup/2009 Asian Cup Group D qualifier against Turkmenistan.

According to information received from the Oman Football Association (OFA), the friendly match against New Zealand is scheduled to be played at the Seeb Sports Stadium on November 12.

The All Whites, as New Zealand team are affectionately called in their country, boast a strong line up of players who play in many foreign leagues including England, Australia, Sweden and France.

A key player to watch out for are their captain Winston Reid, who plays for West Ham United in the English Premier League.

The OFA, meanwhile, informed that the tickets for the friendly match, to be priced at OMR. 2 and 5, will soon be available at select Omanoil filling stations and Khimji Mart outlets.

Paul Le Guen-coached Omanis are currently on top of Group D table with 11 points from five games while fancied Iran, who played a game less, are in second with eight points.

Oman, who won both their home and away games against India, have beaten Turkmenistan 3-1 at home in September and now they travel to Turkmen capital of Ashgabator their away game to be played on November 17.

Oman are also scheduled to play Guam at home on March 24 in 2016 and travel to Tehran for their final group game against Iran on March 29.

CRICKET

Viru hints at retirement DUBAI: One of India’s greatest cricketers, Virender Sehwag on Monday said he will draw curtains on his international career soon as he confirmed his participation in next year’s Masters Champions League 2020, where only retired cricketers can play.

Sehwag’s decision comes only two days after one of his contemporaries Zaheer Khan decided to call time on his career. A day before his 37th birthday, Sehwag was unveiled at the launch ceremony of the veterans 2020 league in Dubai.

When Sehwag, who was present alongside Brian Lara, Grae-

me Smith and Azhar Mahmood at the launch, was asked how he could play as MCL is a retired cricketers’ league, Sehwag said “If I am not retired I will not play.

I will go back to India and announce my retirement.”

MCL is supposed to be played in February next year, which means that Sehwag will complete his Ranji Trophy commitments before joining the veterans’ league.

In a glorious career spanning over 12 years, Sehwag played 104 Tests scoring 8586 runs at an average of 49.34, hitting 23 centuries and 32 half-centuries. — PTI

Racing was exceptionally close in the 85-strong men’s fleet although the 9-10 knot shifty breeze proved a tactical challenge.

Pierre Le Coq (FRA) who finished the day with two firsts and a second is the overnight leader of the men’s fleet. Le Coq, from Brest, Brittany, said it was technically quite difficult on the race course so he was pleased with his consistent performance.

“I was happy that I managed to be quite fast upwind, and downwind I sailed deep. Also it was the conditions I like, so I felt very comfortable,” he said.

“Getting a good start was very important today. I opted for the middle and it seemed to work.”

LEADING MEN’S RACE: France’s Pierre Le Coq in full control. – Supplied photos

Le Coq now leads Piotr Myszka (POL) by two points, with Mateo Sanz Lanz (SUI) in third.

Racing continues on Tuesday with three more qualifying races for both fleets. After the concluding qualifying race, competitors will discard their worst race score.

Competitors will then be split into Gold and Silver fleets determined by overall positions.

Spectacular opening On Sunday night, the Sultanate of Oman officially welcomed the 2015 RS:X World Windsurfing Championships to its shores with a ceremony at the Millennium Resort Mussanah. As the sun set over the Arabian Gulf, competitors and

guests were given a taste of Oman’s famed hospitality and a glimpse of what lies ahead over the next seven days. In the presence of His Excellency, Sheikh Sa’ad bin Mohammed bin Said al Mardhouf Al Sa’adi, Minister of Sports Affairs, David Graham, Oman Sail CEO, shared his delight at bringing the event to the Sultanate.

He said, “This year marks the tenth anniversary for the RS:X class; It is an honour for the Sultanate of Oman and Mussanah Race City to be chosen to host the World Championships and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the RSX class for their confidence in Oman Sail to host such a significant event for them.”

Joining David Graham in welcoming surfers at the opening ceremony, Carlo Dallo Vedova, RS:X Class President, presented two golden pins to Neil Pryde, designer of the RS:X sailboard, and Her Excellency Maitha bint Saif Al Mahrouqi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Chairwoman of Oman Sail.

Sheikh Hilal bin Said Hamdan Al Hajri, Governor of South Batinah, Advisor to the Ministry of Sports Affairs, Khalfan Al Nabai, Rashad Ahmed Al Hinai, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Sports Affairs and Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Farsi, Wali of Mussanah were also in attendance for the opening ceremony.

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TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

SPORTS

Stay ahead of the curve with WhatsNews

BCCI secretary Thakur virtually rules out India-Pakistan series PCB Chairman Shaharyar Khan is in India to discuss the possibilty of an Indo-Pak series in December as per an MoU signed between the two Boards, but Thakur said that first

WELL GUARDED: BCCI President, Shashank Manohar coming out from the BCCI office with police security after Shiv Sena workers stormed the BCCI office and protested against the potential series between Pakistan and India in Mumbai on Monday. – PTI

the conditions have to improve to hold talks and only then a bilateral series could be a possibility

NEW DELHI: BCCI secretary Anurag Thakur on Monday but virtually ruled out the possibility of an early resumption of IndoPak bilateral cricket series even as he strongly condemned the Shiv Sena protests inside the Board headquarters in Mumbai.

PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) Chairman Shaharyar Khan is in India to discuss the possibilty of an Indo-Pak series in December as per an MoU signed between the two Boards, but Thakur said that first the conditions have to improve to hold talks and only then a bilateral series could be a possibility.

“First of all I condemn this attack. You can’t barge into BCCI premises and force people not to hold talks with the PCB chairman. I think BCCI President is competent enough to discuss the matter with the PCB chairman but the final call is always taken after discussing with the union government.

“In a democracy you can protest, but on the streets. Raise your

Keep politics out: ICC NEW DELHI: Condemning the attack on BCCI headquarters in Mumbai by Shiv Sena workers protesting against the proposed Indo-Pak bilateral cricket series, ICC president Zaheer Abbas on Monday said politics should never be mixed with sports.

Reacting on the issue, Abbas, who is also a former Pakistan cricketer, said: “It’s not a new thing. It’s been happening for long. But being the ICC

voice but you can’t barge into someone’s home, office, headquarters, I think that was not fair,” Thakur said on the sidelines of the selection committee meeting in the national capital.

“In terms of relations between BCCI (Board Of Control For Cricket In India) and PCB, we had held talks five months earlier and then again. I had made it clear earlier as well that the talks can continue between the Boards, but cricket will only happen when

president, I want cricket to spread all around the world.”

The ICC president said the entire cricketing world is waiting.

“Nothing better than India and Pakistan playing each other. The whole world and the people of both India and Pakistan are waiting for the series. The world is hoping that India will give a good news to the cricketing world,” said Abbas. - PTI

conditions will improve.”

Thakur said it will be very difficult for him give a timeframe as to when cricketing ties can be restored. “Talks will happen between the two nations and only then the Boards will be able to decide. The two governments will have to start talking at one level.

If you talk about the December series, it will be very difficult for me to commit till we talk with the union government”, he said.

On the possibility of a meet-

ing with Shaharyar in the capital, Thakur was not willing to give an official word about it. “I had met Mr Shaharyar Khan during the ICC meet. He wanted to meet the new BCCI President and put his stance. There is no official meeting with him in Delhi,” he said.

Also dispelling rumours about a tri-series involving Pakistan and Bangladesh, Thakur said that there focus is just on Indo-Pak bilateral ties.

“We were clear that we need to discuss all this with the union government. And there were few pending discussions with the PCB and BCCI and till the time they are not resolved we cannot go to the union government and take a final call,” he said.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the two boards in 2014 to play five bilateral-series till 2023 — in an eight-year cycle.

“It’s not only about MoU, it’s also about the prevalent conditions and the relationship where it stands today. And I think PCB chairman wanted to meet the new-elected President to talk about pending issues which we could not resolve earlier. So once we resolve those issues then only we will go and talk to the union government and that stage has not arrived,” he said. - PTI

CRICKET

Cook is world’s best opener: Gooch LONDON: Former England captain Graham Gooch has heaped praise on current skipper Alastair Cook, calling him the best opener in the world following the latter’s marathon Test innings of 263 against Pakistan.

Cook smashed 263 runs in 836 minutes in his side’s first innings in the first drawn Test.

It was the longest ever innings by an Englishman and the third longest in Test history.

“It was one of the great innings. Cook has always been very mentally strong, his concentration and application have always been there from a young age. Cook is the premier opening batsman in world cricket and has been for a number of years. He’s been playing for nearly 10 years but he’s still only 30,” Gooch was quoted as saying

by BBC on Sunday.

The 62-year-old, who worked as England’s batting coach between 2012 and 2014, further said: “The best years for a bats-

Alastair Cook

man are from 25 to 35, with the really premium years probably from 27 to 33, so he is right in the middle of his best period.”

Cook is already England’s record run-scorer in Tests with 9,593 runs from his 120 matches at an average of 47.49, having passed Gooch’s previous record of 8,900 earlier this year.

“He should go well past 10,000 runs and really, the world is his oyster. I don’t think he will have any problems fitness-wise ,” Gooch said. - IANS

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C O M M E N TA RY

Why it’s too late for Dhoni to be selfish I

t’s stupid to hold a gun to your head and pull the trigger to test if the lethal thing is working all right.

Normal humans don’t do that. MS Dhoni is well known for his superhuman abilities — but some of the things he is trying at the moment are incredibly stupid.

What’s happening right now makes you wonder if there’s any method in the madness being unveiled, or if it’s all madness coming from a hero who has grown old without any method.

A day before the start of the ODI series the Indian skipper was explaining why it was not possible to play Ajinkya Rahane under the present conditions. All right. We agree. Rahane doesn’t rotate the strike, he’s not good on a slow wicket, he doesn’t have the power to bat down the order to provide the team with the right momentum, the top slots are so full there’s no room for Jinx to squeeze himself in…these are the reasons raised by Dhoni just a few days ago. It’s too soon for anyone to forget the Dhoninomics about the best available playing XI. Why then the poor guy was made to bat at No. 6 on the slow track at Rajkot?

Part of a hidden, malicious method, or an obviously failed madness repeated with imbecilic, sadistic regularity?

If playing Rahane at No. 6 was part of the curious experiments being tried out by the skipper or the top managers despite the unassailable facts at their disposal from previous botched flings that the Mumbai man is not the guy for the slot, we are forced to look for more than what meets the eye.

Rahane’s inclusion in the playing XI for the first ODI was a surprise as it came just a day after Dhoni’s reiteration of his views on why Rahane could not fit into the normal scheme of things. One way to look at the pre-match drama was to suspect a Dhoni plot in it, that he might have been trying to send misleading hints to the South Africans, but such arguments were not convincing.

It’s stupid to think either AB de Villiers or Dale Steyn or Morne Morkel would lose their sleep over Rahane. The obvious conclusion then was that Dhoni had no choice but to yield to the bring-inRahane pressure.

The bigger surprise was when Rahane walked out to bat at No. 3, in place of a sulking Virat Kohli, at Kanpur, and the unassuming guy did a good job in the first as well as the second ODI in his No. 3 avatar.

What happened at Rajkot raises doubts about the process Dhoni is talking about.

If the process aims at getting the right guys in slots down the order, at No.6 or wherever, before Dhoni hangs up his gloves and bat, repeating failed options are absurd. A waste of time and a terrible misuse of opportunities to go 2-1 up in the series and gain advantage.

Experiments, even the meaningless ones like getting Rahne in at No. 6, could have been tried out in the matches

Experiments, even the meaningless ones like getting Rahne in at No. 6, could have been tried out later.

Other options, like getting new faces in place of Raina and Dhawan could have been an investment for a better future. From every which angle Rajkot represents a painful example of flawed thinking

after the Rajkot ODI, depending on the circumstances. On the other hand, other options, like getting new faces in place of out-of-touch batsmen like Suresh Raina, definitely, and Shikhar Dhawan, perhaps, could have been an investment for a better future. From every which angle Rajkot represents a painful example of flawed thinking.

India need to have a better opening partnership. Rohit Sharma fits the bill perfectly, but Dhawan, with his changed, confused outlook, doesn’t. Of course, what you need is not a pinch-hitter who may come good in an odd one out of many a dozen, but someone with skill and reputation to take the fight to the opposition. At the moment, Dhawan lags behind, so it’s time to take a look at new guys, like Mayank Agarwal, perhaps. No dispute over the No. 3 slot: it has to be Virat Kohli on a regular basis, and if the situation warrants, anyone else.

“There are only two slots and three batsmen,” Dhoni said after the Rajkot defeat, trying to articulate his point on the Kohli-Rahane-Dhoni game of musical chairs being played now for the No.3 and No.4 slots. For someone who has served the nation unselfishly all these years batting down the order, my point to Dhoni is: why don’t you happily realise it’s too late now to be selfish?

The writer is a freelance contributor based in India. All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of Times of Oman

T U E S DAY, O CTO B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5

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SPORTS Dhoni supports struggling Raina The Uttar Pradesh left-hander was dismissed for ducks in the last two games after scoring 3 in the series opener at

I want to bat up the order but I also want people who can contribute down the order, so I have to mix and match it. If I have enough deliveries to bat then I can play the big shots. That’s the thinking behind it.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni Indian skipper

Kanpur, but Dhoni says if he gives himself a bit more time in the middle everything will be fine

RAJKOT: Struggling for runs in the ongoing ODI series against South Africa, under-fire Suresh Raina has got the much-needed backing of skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who advised the middleorder batsman to give himself a bit more time before unleashing his big shots.

“More than the form he needs to give himself a bit more time. He’s gone in and played the big shots.

Whenever you go in you actually have more time than what you think. It’s important for him to play a few deliveries,” said Dhoni at the post-match press conference after India lost the third ODI by 18 runs here last night.

“It’s not easy to straightaway play the big shots. He needs to give himself a bit more time as it becomes difficult to find people who can clear the big outfield. My personal feeling is he needs to give himself a bit more time and everything will be fine,” said the captain.

The Uttar Pradesh left-hander was dismissed for ducks in the last two games after scoring 3 in the series opener at Kanpur.

He did not have a great time in the preceding T20 series as well against the visitors.

Talking about Sunday’s game that India lost by 18 runs after failing to chase South Africa’s 270 on a slow pitch, Dhoni said the wicket became increasingly slower as the game and made life difficult for the batsmen.

“In the first half, the wicket played differently and as the game progressed, it became more and more difficult. If the wicket had not changed, 270 was a very good effort by our bowlers.

But it became slower and we were not able to play the big shots.

“I hope you have heard what I said (in the din) yeh bandh nahi hoga, aag laga ke chod diya (This won’t stop, a fire has been lit and left alone),” he said jokingly about the din created by the Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) officials.

“I thought it was a very good effort by the bowlers. I thought it was a good wicket to bat on, the spinners did not get much assistance but they bowled well.

“As I said, it got slower and slower there was a bit of reverse swing.

The fast bowlers used the extra fielder in the end quite nicely. If

the wicket had not got slower, 270 was a par score,” he explained.

Dhoni, who made 47 and also added 80 runs with his deputy Virat Kohli who top-scored with 77.

The Indian skipper rued that not enough runs were scored in the first 10 overs when openers Rohit Sharma (65) and Shikhar Dhawan (13) batted and then between 30 and 40 overs when he and Kohli got together.

“I don’t think we got enough runs in the first 10 which was a crucial phase with the wicket getting slower. And 30th to 40th again was another crucial period. We wanted to bat quite late and at the same time we started playing the big shots close to the 37th over.

“But though I and Virat were set we were not able to connect and play big shots. We never middled anything. Also not to forget the outfield over here is big. It was a tough one, especially with less pace on offer and you have to play the big shots,” Dhoni said.

Asked about him coming up the order by one rung, at No. 4, he said that he believed in not sticking to

a set batting order and, instead, improvising as per the situation’s demands. “I want to bat up the order but I also want people who can contribute down the order, so I have to mix and match it. If I have enough deliveries to bat then I can play the big shots. That’s the thinking behind it.

‘We have to accommodate’ “The other batsmen, we might have to accommodate according to that. They may score at times and may not score but the good thing is they will get experience batting down the order as I feel at times the Indian batting order gets quite rigid. When you bat down the order you will know what are the difficulties,” he said.

“I won’t say it’s easy to bat up the order but they always have the cushion of 3 or 4 batsmen behind them, so you can always play big shots, but once you are batting at 5 or 6 you know No. 7 is quite thin and when you are looking to play the big shots you have to back yourself and say I can’t mistime this. These are the pressures you experience

CRICKET

India prefer Jadeja to Harbhajan for Test series against South Africa

PICKING THE SQUAD: BCCI secretary Anurag Thakur along with chief selector Sandeep Patil and

RETURNS: Ravindra Jadeja.

other committee members including Roger Binny, Vikram Rathore, Saba Karim and Ranjinder Singh Hans during the selection committee meeting for picking the last two ODI and first two Test squads against South Africa in New Delhi on Monday. – PTI

NEW DELHI: All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been recalled to India’s squad in place of spinner Harbhajan Singh for next month’s first two Tests against South Africa, the country’s cricket board said on Monday.

Left-arm spinner Jadeja, 26, dropped for the recent series in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, has been in prime domestic form, picking up 24 wickets in two matches in first-class cricket.

The left-handed batsman has

also scored 91 and 58 in two innings. The 35-year-old Harbhajan, who has played 103 Tests, bagged four wickets in the two matches he played in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

The Indian selectors included off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who suffered a side strain in the first one-day international against South Africa in Kanpur earlier this month, in the Test squad.

Fast bowler Ishant Sharma was named in the Test squad even

though he is ineligible for the first match after being suspended for misconduct against Sri Lanka.

Sreenath Aravind has been drafted into the squad for the last two ODIs, replacing Umesh Yadav who proved expensive during the first two matches and was dropped for Sunday’s third game.

The final two ODIs will be played on Thursday and Sunday before the first Test of a fourmatch encounter begins on November 5 in Mohali.

Test squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Murali Vijay, Shikhar Dhawan, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Amit Mishra, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Umesh Yadav, Lokesh Rahul, Stuart Binny, Varun Aaron, Ishant Sharma ODI squad for last two matches: Mahendra Singh Dhoni (captain), Stuart Binny, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Axar Patel, Ajinkya Rahane, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, Mohit Sharma, Rohit Sharma, Sreenath Aravind, Gurkeerat Singh, Amit Mishra, Harbhajan Singh. - Reuters

batting down the order,” Dhoni explained. Asked about Kohli, he said his deputy has never been out of form in the series and that the team was still searching for the ideal No. 7 in the line-up who can come out and play big shots.

“He’s (Kohli) not somebody who is out of form. He got run out in a few games. We wanted to try him out at No. 4 and he got run out and it became slightly more difficult for this line up.

The good thing is Ajinkya Rahane batted really well when he got the opportunity to bat higher up. He can play authentic cricket shots and can exploit the field well.

“But in this game I felt it was important for Virat to bat at 3 and that’s the slot he will generally bat.

We are still looking for someone at No. 7 who can play big shots.

We also have to play five bowlers,” Dhoni said.

He hinted that the three-spinner strategy, employed in this game by drafting in Amit Mishra to complement Harbhajan Singh and Axar Patel, had worked well.

“Quite a few times our fast bowl-

ers have not bowled their full quota of 10 overs if you see the stats you are inclined to use the spinners.

Also Mishra has done really well. He’s somebody who is getting us wickets also. You want to take wickets in middle overs to put pressure on the opposition,” Dhoni said. “That’s the reason we included an extra spinner and I think the three-spinner strategy is working, but still the crucial slot is the No. 7 slot especially with Raina not scoring it becomes a bit difficult.”

He also hoped Patel would eventually come good with the bat and fulfill his potential to be a good No. 7 batsman. “It takes time at international level, especially for people batting lower down. As a bowler he got hit in one of the games, but otherwise has been good.

“We all know he can bat and with more games under his belt and getting to play a few more deliveries off the fast bowlers, hopefully he will keep getting better. Definitely at No. 7 you need batsmen to play big shots. Otherwise the batting line-up looks very thin,” Dhoni concluded. - PTI

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TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

SPORTS Alexander in four-way lead at Muscat Hills The 21-year-old Scottish prodigy rebounded from an early bogey on the first with two birdies on the front nine and picked up three more shots coming home

MUSCAT: Young amateur Ben Alexander shot a career-best fiveunder 67 to join Stuart Archibald, Christofer Blomstrand and Cyril Suk atop the leaderboard on the opening day of the Muscat Hills Golf Citizen Championship here on Monday.

The 21-year-old Scottish prodigy from Renaissance rebounded from an early bogey on the first with two birdies on the front nine and picked up three more shots coming home, including an eagle on the par-5, 13th, to introduce himself on the MENA Golf Tour after missing the cut in all his six previous outings.

England’s Archibald and Sweden’s Blomstrand went bogey-free while Czech Republic Suk, who won the 2014 Shaikh Maktoum Dubai Open, reeled off four birdies in his last seven holes to move into a four-way tie for the lead.

Sweden’s Per Barth, the winner of the Shaikh Maktoum Dubai Open last month, was placed solo fifth a further shots adrift with Scotland’s Clarke Lutton, who won last week at The Els Club, heading a 10-man group at three-under.

On a hot and humid day when 30 players broke par, Alexander made his presence felt with a tidy round, but he was not too excited.

“I should have been a lot lower ... missed many short putts,” Alexander, who is playing in his first season on the tour, said.

MENTALLY STRONGER: Scotland’s young amateur Ben Alexander. – Supplied photo

Oman’s Azzan slips up MUSCAT: Local lad Azzan Al Rumhy, one of the two Omani amateur golfers to register for the Muscat Hills Golf Citizen Championship, slipped well down the leaderboard on the first day after returning a nine-over 81.

Oman’s top golfer lost four shots in his first three holes

“I was feeling mentally much stronger and that was the key,” said the Scotsman, who started playing competitive golf only a year back.

Of his eagle on the 13th, he said: “I missed the fairway off the tee, but hit my four-iron from 221 years to within two feet of the pin.

S U S TA I NA B L E D E V E L O P M E N T

and never really recovered, making the turn at seven over.

Though Azzan Al Rumhy birdied the par-5, 13th it was not good enough to steady the round.

Ali Hameed Al Saleh, the other Omani player in the field, was forced to pull out due to a bad back.

It certainly lifted my round and my spirits,” he added.

England’s Archibald, who finished in solo third at last week’s event at The Els Club, sounded very pleased with his day’s work.

“I really didn’t know what to expect when I teed off, but things fell

into place as the round wore on. I drove the ball well and hit my approaches close to the pin,” said Archibald, who made the turn at one under. “I chipped in on the 18th for a birdie which was quite nice. In fact, I played the last three well, but missed out on a five-footer for a birdie on the 16th, which was a shame.

“The course is very well designed. It’s just that the greens are a bit tough to read,” said the 31-year-old from Hampshire.

Morocco’s Younes El Hassani and Mustapha El Maouas carded matching three-under 69s for a share of the lead in the MENA Division, one shot clear of their compatriots Mohamed Belaroussia and Mehdi Saissi.

Elsewhere, England’s Joshua White, who won the MENA Golf Tour Order of Merit title last year, carded a 71 while India’s Rayhan Thomas returned a two-under 70, highlighted by an eagle on the 13th, to occupy solo second in amateur division behind Alexander.

FOOTBALL

No ‘magic dust’ needed to improve Liverpool: Klopp LONDON: Liverpool know how to play football and there is no need to “sprinkle magic dust” on them, says new manager Juergen Klopp.

The former Borussia Dortmund boss made his Premier League bow with a solid goalless draw for his injury-depleted side at Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.

Klopp is renowned for expecting a high work rate from his players and his demands were met on Saturday as his side were the first team to outrun Tottenham this season.

Liverpool’s distance covered and total sprints also increased under Klopp as the Reds ran a combined total of 116 km and made 614 sprints, more than in any other league game so far this campaign.

Much is expected of the charismatic 48-year-old German, who led Dortmund to two Bundesliga titles and a Champions League final, and he is confident his players will improve as they continue to adapt to his style of play.

“We don’t have to sprinkle magical dust on them: ‘and now you can play football’. They know how to play. We just have to create a situation where it is possible to do this,” Klopp was quoted as saying by the British media.

Juergen Klopp

“I am not sure how many games you saw like this from Adam Lallana? I know him from Southampton and he can do 20-30 percent more. Philippe Coutinho? Do you not think he can play better football than today? Of course, he can.

“Lucas? You don’t think he can play balls on the right and left side? Of course he can. Emre Can? Learning between running and passing? He can learn. “(James) Milner? The complete football player, the perfect professional. (You think) I should teach them technical aspects?

They know. We have to altogether help them to show it,” he added.

Klopp will be hoping to pick up his first win as a Liverpool manager on Thursday when they host Russian side Rubin Kazan in the Europa League. - Reuters

BREACH OF ETHICS

UAE player gets jail term for insulting coach Ali DUBAI: Emirati footballer Abdullah Qassem was jailed for three months after insulting national team coach Mahdi Ali in a video, local media reported.

The 29-year-old had made indecent gestures and criticised Ali after the coach had not included him in the team, The National newspaper reported on Monday.

Qassem, along with a second unnamed Al Dhafra player who filmed the rant, were given the three-month sentences by the Abu Dhabi Court of Misdemean-

ours, the newspaper said.

The duo were found guilty of using telecommunications services to offend and hurt the feelings of others, and displaying a recording that breached public ethics through the web.

The duo had already been suspended by their club.

Qassem’s lawyer had argued the video was published without his client’s consent and that he was a victim in the crime. He also said Ali had not wished to press charges. - Reuters

FOOTBALL

OOC all set to host Platini defends $2m FIFA fee seminar on ‘Sport and Environment’ MUSCAT: The Oman Olympic Committee (OOC) will organise a seminar titled ‘Sport and Environment’ on Wednesday.

According to a press statement issued by OOC on Monday, the seminar will be inaugurated under the auspices of Sheikh Saad bin Mohammed Al Mardhouf Al Saadi, Minister of Sports Affairs, and in the presence of OOC chief Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed Al Zubair.

The seminar is organised by OOC’s Oman Sport and Environment Committee under the theme ‘Towards Sustainable Environmental Sport’.

Key speakers at the seminar will include Dr. Saif bin Ali Al Hajri, Vice-Chairman of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, Dr. Nayif bin Saleh Al Shalhoob, Director General of Awareness and Guidance at the Meteorological and Environmental Protection Administration in Saudi Arabia, Dr. Ali bin Said Al Balushi, member of OOC’s Oman Sport and Envi-

ronment Committee, Jabir bin Moosa Al Abri of the Ministry of Education, Dr. Yasin Al Sharaabi, associate professor at Geography Section, Sultan Qaboos University, Tariq Mohammed Ali of Oman Volleyball Association and Eissa Al Samsami of Oman’s National Field Research Centre for Environmental Conservation.

The seminar is intended to support the OOC’s drive towards utilising more environmentfriendly resources and diverse activities and practices, the OOC statement added.

One of the main objectives of the seminar is to introduce to the audience Oman Sport and Environment Committee, environmental values at all levels of sport, the use of sport in promoting environment and sustainable development as well as the development of sports facilities to the latest environmental standards and involvement of various Omani clubs in consolidating the concept of environment and sustainable development.

PARIS: Michel Platini said the two million Swiss francs ($2.1 million) he received from FIFA, a payment which has cast a cloud over his bid to become president of the world football body, was legitimate reward for genuine work.

In an interview with Le Monde newspaper published on Monday, the head of Europe’s powerful UEFA football federation reaffirmed his determination to run for the top job and said the money was for work he did for FIFA President Sepp Blatter from 1998 to 2002.

Most of the payment, which is being investigated by the Swiss authorities, was only made in 2011.

Both Blatter and Platini have denied any wrongdoing over the affair, just one of the controversies roiling the scandal-plagued FIFA. Platini provided an extensive account of how that advisory work and related payments were agreed with Blatter, telling the newspaper he had never been good with finances and that he had even shortchanged himself in the case in question. Platini said he had asked for one million francs a year for the work which included reform of the global competitions calendar, work on subsidies for the poorest federations, funding for football projects and a lot of travel with Blatter.

People who know me know I can look at myself in the mirror.

I’m bullet-proof Michel Platini

Fifa presidential hopeful

“I’ve not used lawyers or negotiating agents for ages,” the former French soccer star told Le Monde.

“It was a man-to-man thing.”

Platini said that Blatter had explained that his contract would stipulate an annual sum of 300,000 Swiss francs because that was the top salary rate at FIFA at the time.

The rest of the agreed one million a year would be paid at a later date.

Over four years, such a catchup payment would have totalled 700,000 francs a year, or 2.8 mil-

lion Swiss francs. Platini told Le Monde that when years later he was asked to send a bill for money still due to him, he mistakenly remembered a contract salary sum of 500,000 Swiss francs a year rather than 300,000.

He therefore sent a bill for a total of only two million francs for the four years in question.

Blatter and Platini were suspended for 90 days on Oct. 8 after Switzerland’s attorney general’s office initiated criminal proceed-

ings against Blatter over the 2011 payment to Platini.

Platini played down the impact on his election chances of the debate over the 2011 payment.

“I don’t think I’ve lost many votes, and people who know me know I can look at myself in the mirror. I’m bullet-proof,” he said.

“I just hope I’m not going to be prevented from running. They’re just upset that a footballer rather than a pure politician wants to run things. Well, I don’t like losing.

Above all when it’s over an issue that isn’t an issue.”

Competing against Platini for the FIFA presidency are Jordanian Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein and former Trinidad and Tobago midfielder David Nakhid.

The president of Asian soccer, Sheikh Salman Bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa of Bahrain, is also expected to do so before the October 26 deadline for the vote four months later.

FIFA was plunged into the worst crisis in its history with the indictment by U.S. authorities on May 27 of 14 soccer officials and sports marketing executives. The U.S. and Swiss authorities are running corruption investigations that include examining the awarding of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups to Russia and Qatar respectively. - Reuters

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SPORTS

Champion Al Attiyah likely to skip Oman International Rally The Oman International Rally returns to the MERC calendar for the first time since 2007 but the local motorsport aficionados are likely be deprived of an opportunity to see Qatari star Nasser Al Attiyah in action

ALL SET: Oman Automobile Association Managing Director Suleiman Al Rawahi, second from right, speaks during a press conference

organised to announce the details of Oman International Rally at Grand Hormuz Hotel on Monday. – ISMAIL AL FARSI/Times of Oman

MUSCAT: The Oman International Rally returns to the FIA Middle East Rally Championship (MERC) calendar early next month but the much-looked-forward-to event as well as the Sultanate’s motorsport aficionados are likely to be deprived off a chance to witness one of the region’s most successful rallyist in action.

After impressing the MERC officials by successfully organising a candidate event last year, the Oman Automobile Association (OAA) succeeded in getting the Oman International Rally includ-

ed in the calendar for the first time since 2007. But the organisers of the November 5-7 event revealed on Monday defending champions Nasser Al Attiyah is unlikely to participate in Oman leg of the regional championship.

Unlikely to come Al Attiyah, who would have been the star attraction in Muscat, had already assured himself of another MERC crown with a victory at Jordan Rally on Saturday and preferred to skip Oman leg.

Suleiman Al Rawahi, Managing

Director of the OAA and the member of the organising committee, while briefing the media about the 2015 edition of Oman Rally said Al Attiyah is ‘unlikely to come’.

Speaking during a press conference at Grand Hormuz on Monday, he said Nasser al Attiyah might opt out of Oman Rally.

“We had requested him to take part in the Oman International Rally but he said he is unlikely to come,” Al Rawahi said.

Speaking about the event, Al Rawahi said ‘we are ready’ to host a successful rally event.

The rally, which will run for a total of 540 kms, will include 13 stages, of which one will be a super special stage to be held at the OAA race track.

“We are ready to host the Oman International Rally that has fought its way back to the Middle East Rally Championship,” Al Rawahi said. “Last year, Oman Rally was a candidate event for the Middle East championship. We had organised the rally in an impressive way and that led to the championship being included in the calendar this time.”

JUNIOR CRICKET

However, Al Rawahi has lamented the lack of corporate support for the event. “We are trying to do our best with minimum support available,” Al Rawahi said.

Local drivers The Sultanate will be represented by four local drivers while there will be 10 drivers in the National Rally Championship. Zakariya al Aufi and Khalid al Minji are among some prominent Omanis taking part in the MERC Rally.

Anwar al Zadjali, Deputy Chairman of Executive Committee of

Oman International Rally and adviser to OAA, said Oman Rally had scored high points in safety and technical aspects while being evaluated for the MERC rally championship.

“We had high safety and technical points during the candidate race last year,” Al Zadjali said.

He said the relation between OAA and FIA dates back to 1970s and that Oman has a long history in motor rally championships.

While the list of the participants is yet to be finalised, Al Zadjali said some top drivers from the region are expected to be in action. “Two drivers from Kuwait, three from Qatar and Abu Dhabi Racing Team will compete in the rally,” he said.

Ahmed al Zadjali, the clerk of the course, said preparations are on track.

“The rally will be held in the Muscat area with the super special stage at the OAA.” On the first day, the rally will take place in Rusayl and Misfah, which will be of 121kms. On the second day, Al Khoud Old Village, Murayrat and Misfah North will play host to the 125-km race.

“The Ministry of Defence will help us to prepare the roads and race venues along with the Muscat Municipality,” he added.

Hisham Al Sinani, representative of Ministry of Sports Affairs, said the ministry will continue its support to the rally.

“We are committed to support the event as always and will do the same this year too,” he said.

ISC BADMINTON

BSM down ISAS, Rohan stars for ISWK MUSCAT: Bangladesh School Muscat (BSM) defeated Indian School Al Seeb (ISAS) by six wickets in a Khimji Ramdas-sponsored Under-19 Division Cricket Tournament at the Municipality Gground I here recently.

Winning the toss and batting first, ISAS put on 149 runs in in 36.2 overs with Mohammed Feshal top scoring with 77 runs. Shahriar Fahim was the star with the ball for BSM, claiming five wickets in eight overs.

In reply, BSM completed their bonus point victory by scoring 153 for four in just 19 overs. Mahbub Hassan and Abu Musah scored 52 and 38 runs respectively. Mohammed Taleeb claimed two scalps for ISAS.

ISWK girls record 41-run victory over ISM squad MUSCAT: Indian School Al Wadi Al Kabir (ISWK) recorded a 41-run victory over Indian Social Muscat (ISM) in an Al Turki Enterprisessponsored Girls Under-19 Division match.

Batting first, ISWK posted 184 runs without losing a wicket in 20 overs thanks to a brilliant opening stand between Akshandha (86 not out)

Brief scores: ISAS 149 in 36.2 overs (Mohammed Feshal 77; Shahriar Fahim 5/34) lost to BSM 153 for 4 in 19 overs (Mahbub Hassan 52, Abu Musah 38; Mohammed Taleeb 2/12). Points: BSM - 3, ISAS - 0.

ISM ease past PSM In an Al Turki Enterprises-sponsored Under-16 B Division match, the Indian School Muscat (ISM) eased to a 86-run win over Pakistan School Muscat (PSM).

Batting first, ISM posted a mammoth 217 for seven in 25 overs.

Vikram Nabira played a great knock of 68 with valuable support from Parithosh (35), Tusheet (39) and Saif Ali (32 not out) respectively.

Mohammed Muzahir was the pick of the PSM bowlers with figures of two for 21 from three overs.

ISM completed their bonus point victory by bowling out PSM for 131 in 19 overs.

Ehsan Ullah top scored for PSM with a steady 33. Mohammed Faisal was the best ISM bowler on the day with figures of four for 16 in five overs.

Brief scores: ISM 217 for 7 in 25 overs (Vikram Nabira 68; Mohammed Muzahir 2/21) bt PSM 131 in 19 overs (Ehsan Ullah 33; Mohammed Faisal 4/16). Points: ISM - 3, PSM - 0.

and Jayadhanya (42 not out).

ISWK completed then restricted ISM to 143 for six in 20 overs to complete their bonus point win. Sujana Sundar top scored with 54.

Brief scores: ISWK 184 for no loss in 20 overs (Akshandha 86 n.o., Jayadhanya 42 n.o.) bt ISM 143 for 6 in 20 overs (Sujana Sundar 54). Points: ISWK – 3, ISM – 0.

Batting first, ISWK posted a mammoth 226 for three in 25 overs thanks to a brilliant unbeaten 117 by Rohan Koshy.

ISWK completed the win by restricting ISG for 196 for nine9 in 25 overs. Mohammed Salman top scored for ISG with a brilliant 111 off 77 balls. Fletcher D’Souza and Rohan Koshy were the best ISWK bowlers on the day claiming four wickets each.

Brief scores: ISWK 226 for 3 in 25 overs (Rohan Koshy 117 n.o.) bt ISG 196 for 9 in 25 overs (Mohammed Salman 111; Fletcher D’Souza 4/28, Rohan Koshy 4/20). Points: ISWK - 2, ISG - 0.

ALL-ROUND SHOW: ISWK’s Rohan Koshy. – Supplied photo

ISWK down ISG In an Al Turki Enterprises-sponsored Under-16 Division match, Indian School Al Wadi Al Kabir (ISWK) handed a 30-run defeat to Indian School Al Ghubra (ISG).

ISWK humble PSM In an Under-13 Division match, Indian School Al Wadi Al Kabir (ISWK) defeated Pakistan School Muscat (PSM) by a huge margin of 156 runs. Batting first, ISWK posted a massive 251 for two in 20 overs.

Jeel and Aman Preet played excellent knocks scoring 90 and 77 runs respectively.

ISWK completed their bonus point victory by bowling out PSM

for 95 in 19 overs. Abdullah Iftikhar top scored for PSM with a steady 34. Yash Mehta was the best ISWK bowler on the day with figures of two for 18 in four overs.

Brief scores: ISWK 251/2 in 20 overs (Jeel 90, Amal Preet 77) bt PSM 95 in 19 overs (Abdullah Iftikhar 34; Yash Mehta 2/18). Points: ISWK - 3, PSM - 0.

CHAMPIONS: Prabhu A R and Niyas N. – Supplied photo

BSM edge GCC In an Under-13 B Division match, Bangladesh School Muscat (BSM) overcame Gulf Cricket Centre (GCC) for three-wicket victory.

Batting first, GCC posted 168 for three in 20 overs. Rayyan Ghani played a fantastic knock to stay unbeaten on 114.

BSM completed their victory by scoring 169 for seven in 17 overs.

Iftiak Hossain top scored for BSM with a quick unbeaten 86.

Siddharth Pradeep, Shounak Kelkar and Parikshit Gutpa chipped in with two wickets apiece for GCC. Brief scores: GCC 168 for 3 in 20 overs (Rayyan Ghani 114 n.o.) lost to BSM 169 for 7 in 17 overs (Iftiak Hossain 86 n.o.; Shonak Kelkar 2/29).

Points: GCC - 2; BSM - 0.

SLSM outplay MCCC C In another Under-13 B Division match, Sri Lankan School Muscat (SLSM) outplayed Muscat Cricket Coaching Centre C (MCCC C) team for a seven-wicket victory.

Batting first, MCCC C posted 142 for seven in 20 overs. Kamlesh and Ciranjeevan top scored with 25 runs each. Khalid Talah and Abdul Hakam picked up two wickets each for SLSM. Then the SLSM completed their bonus point victory by scoring 143 for three in 14.3 overs. Devin Geemeth top scored for SLSM with 63 unbeaten runs.

Brief scores: MCCC C 142 for 7 in 20 overs (Kamlesh 25, Ciranjeevan 25) lost to SLSM 143 for 3 in 14.3 overs (Devin Geemeth 63 n.o). Points: SLSM 3; MCCC C - 0.

Prabhu and Niyas claim doubles title MUSCAT: Prabhu A R and Niyas N defeated Cyril Williams and Sudheer Raghavan to lift the men’s A doubles title at the National Bank of Oman–sponsored Annual Badminton Tournament organised by the Indian Social Club ISC) Muscat.

Prabhu and Niyas displayed superb skills to gain upper hand over their opponents from the beginning before clinching the in the first game at 21-14. Cyril

Williams and Sudheer Raghavan tried to regroup themselves in the second game but failed to stop Prabhu and Niyas from winning the second game 21-12 and with that the championship title.

Earlier in the semifinals, Prabhu and Niyas accounted for Bishen Bhalla and Jarnail Singh.

In a men’s A singles semifinal, talented Bishen Bhalla defeated Niyas N to set up a final showdown with his Prabhu A R.

CRICKET

Hussey to lead PM’s XI CANBERRA: Australian batting great Michael Hussey will make a comeback to the cricket field when he will lead the Prime Minister’s XI against New Zealand in a one-day pink ball match at the Manuka Oval here on Friday.

A 12-man squad was announced with Hussey being joined by his brother David in the side, with the pair playing together, perhaps, for the final time. The side will feature emerging talent along with existing and former international stars.

Cameron Bancroft, Joe Burns, Usman Khawaja and Adam Voges will bring strength to the batting line up. “This is one of the strongest Prime Minister’s XI sides we have selected in recent years,” Cricket Australia (CA) national selector Rodney Marsh said.

Prime Minister’s XI squad: Michael Hussey (captain), Cameron Bancroft, Joe Burns, Usman Khawaja, Adam Voges, David Hussey, Ryan Carters (wicketkeeper), Ashton Agar, Peter Siddle, Jason Behrendorff, Mark Steketee, Ben Taylor (12th man). - IANS

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TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

SPORTS

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RUGBY WORLD CUP

Quarterfinals again deliver weekend to remember LONDON: Rugby World Cup quarterfinal weekend is always one of the great occasions of the quadrennial sporting calendar and this year’s games added another layer of memorable drama to the archive.

The four matches squarely pitted the southern hemisphere against the north and the weekend ended with a 4-0 sweep for the Rugby Championship over the Six Nations, with two of the games producing emphatic victories and two nailbiting late escapes.

New Zealand produced one of the all-time great performances to hammer France 63-13 and underline their status as tournament favourites.

Their nine-try demolition job in Cardiff was hailed by England’s former World Cup winning coach Clive Woodward. “I’ve seen some great All Black teams over the years but that was amazing,” he said.

That victory set up New Zealand for a classic semifinal against the game’s other traditional superpower South Africa but only after the Springboks sneaked past Wales 23-19 with a 75th-minute try by captain Fourie du Preez.

The injured scrumhalf was considered a peripheral part of the squad coming into the tournament but after South Africa’s shock opening defeat by Japan he and coach Heyneke Meyer threw him into the mix earlier than planned with impressive results.

“He is a rugby genius,” Meyer said after the training-ground move that finally breached the Welsh defence at Twickenham on Saturday.

Australia left it even later at the same stadium 24 hours on, when a last-minute penalty by Bernard Foley snatched a 35-34 win over a Scotland side who had been on the verge of probably the greatest

the highlight of the 1995 games, while Jannie de Beer’s extraordinary feat of five drop goals as South Africa beat England in Paris topped the 1999 performances.

England’s march to glory in 2003 was in danger of being derailed when they trailed Wales in their Brisbane quarterfinal but they stormed back to win well, while New Zealand’s 29-9 thrashing of South Africa was a low point in Springbok history.

The 2007 tournament in France, however, probably still takes the honours for the best of the lot.

It began with hosts England, who had been humiliated 36-0

by South Africa in pool play, finding a performance from nowhere to stun Australia by a 12-10 margin in Marseille.

The city was then closed to traffic that night and the entire port gave itself over to televised cover-

The four matches squarely pitted the southern hemisphere against the north and the weekend ended with a 4-0 sweep for the Rugby Championship over the Six Nations, with two of the games producing emphatic victories and two nailbiting late escapes win in their history. It also sparked a deluge of debate at the use — or otherwise — of the television match official.

Scotland have only ever reached the semifinals once, in 1991, but even that is a better record than Ireland, who fell at the quarterfinal stage for the sixth time.

It was their old nemesis Argentina who did for the Six Nations champions again, with a stylish 43-20 Cardiff victory.

‘Can’t-miss’ weekend After its low key inaugural tournament, it was 1991 when the quarter-final weekend became a “can’t miss” opportunity for fans.

England’s win in France in a brutal Paris encounter was impressive but the real drama came in Dublin where Australia produced another trademark last-gasp comeback to deny Ireland a huge upset win.

England flyhalf Rob Andrew’s late drop goal to beat Australia was

Sanchez-Lewandowski duel key to Arsenal vs Bayern tie Fragile Chelsea face tough test at Dynamo Kiev

After failing to score in his first eight matches of the season, Sanchez has netted 10 goals in his last six for club and country, while Lewandowski has scored 22 for club and country

FREE-SCORING STRIKERS: Bayern Munich’s Robert Lewandowski,

left, and Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez. – Agencies

LONDON: Free-scoring strikers Alexis Sanchez of Arsenal and Robert Lewandowski of Bayern Munich will be looking to keep the goals flowing in their bid to help win their pivotal Champions League Group F match in north London on Tuesday.

After failing to score in his first eight matches of the season, Chilean Sanchez has netted 10 goals in his last six for club and country, while Lewandowski has scored 22 for club and country this season, including 15 in his last seven matches.

He failed to find the net in Bayern’s 1-0 win over Werder Bremen on Saturday but has not gone two matches without scoring all season.

Even if he does have an off-day, Arsenal will have Thomas Mueller to worry about after his 15 goals so far this season.

The Bayern front men pose a big threat to an Arsenal defence that has performed reasonably well in the Premier League but badly in the Champions League. The side

are bottom of Group F, having lost their opening two group matches for the first time.

Bayern top the group with six points. Olympiakos Piraeus, who won 3-2 at Arsenal three weeks ago, have three, as do Dinamo Zagreb, while Arsenal have none.

If Bayern win they are likely to seal their place in the last 16 with matches to spare. If Arsenal lose, it is difficult to see them qualifying and they cannot afford to drop any more points when Bayern visit for the third time in four seasons.

After losing to Olympiakos, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admitted his side faced a huge fight to qualify.

“It is still possible of course to qualify but it is difficult to swallow losing a game like that and we have a big battle ahead of us,” he said.

Wenger faced a wave of criticism for resting first choice keeper Petr Cech for the match and playing his reserve David Ospina instead, and it would be a big sur-

prise if Cech was left out again as he has played a big role in Arsenal’s two wins since then keeping two clean sheets.

Arsenal bounced back from that defeat with an emphatic 3-0 demolition of Manchester United five days later and they maintained their good domestic form with a 3-0 win at Watford on Saturday.

Stellar form They will have to be at their best again against an in-form Bayern side that won 3-1 in London in Feb. 2013 and 2-0 there a year later. In four Champions League visits since Dec. 2000 Bayern have lost only once, in March 2005, though they still won that round-of-16 tie 3-2 on aggregate. They now come back in stellar form, having set a league record of nine successive wins from the start of the season when they beat Werder Bremen 1-0 on Saturday, their 12th successive win in all competitions.

Despite already having several

down to a lack of goals, the underperforming midfield partnership of Cesc Fabregas and Eden Hazard, unusually bad defending and Mourinho’s conflicted persona which has seen him fall out with the club doctor, criticise his players in public and fined £50,000 ($77,195.00) by the English FA for comments about referees.

Whether they can retain their Premier League title after taking just 11 points from their opening nine matches, let alone reach the latter stages of the Champions League, is doubtful but they got lucky with both goals in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Villa.

However, on such things seasons turn.

At least the Chelsea coach has no new injury worries with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois his only long-term absentee. - Reuters

KIEV: Chelsea enjoyed a somewhat fortuitous return to winning ways when they beat Aston Villa on Saturday but their fragile self-confidence will face a far more severe test at Dynamo Kiev in the Champions League on Tuesday.

After their worst start to a domestic league season for 37 years, Jose Mourinho’s men travel to Ukraine for their Group G qualifier having won one and lost one of their two games.

Dynamo top the section with four points, the same as Porto, followed by Chelsea on three and Maccabi Tel Aviv on zero. A win against Kiev will not only help swing the initiative in the group Chelsea’s way, but also prove they may be getting back on track after their below-par campaign so far.

Their unexpectedly poor form this season has been

injured players, including defenders Medhi Benatia and Holger Badstuber, as well as Franck Ribery and Mario Goetze, coach Pep Guardiola rested Douglas Costa and Javi Martinez ahead of the trip to London. Winger Arjen Robben failed to recover from a groin injury in time to depart with the team on Sunday.

“It won’t be an easy task there but we are well prepared,” captain Philipp Lahm said of the match.

Guardiola will have Lewandowski in the squad despite the Poland forward suffering a knock on Saturday.

Lewandowski was hit by Werder keeper Felix Wiedwald, crashed to the ground and stayed there for a minute before playing on.

“It’s fine,” Lewandowski said, “Nothing has happened. But I hope our game improves because from tomorrow it’s all about the Champions League.” - Reuters

age from Cardiff, where France produced an even greater turnaround as, having lost their opening game at home to Argentina, they somehow found a way to beat the All Blacks 20-18.

Fiji then gave eventual winners South Africa a massive scare before the Springboks prevailed, while Argentina reached their first semi with a ding-dong battle of a win over Scotland.

The 2011 tournament’s last eight was a more straightforward affair, with Ireland’s now traditional fall, this time to Wales, as the main talking point.

But this year’s four games, watched by over 300,000 fans and huge TV audiences, more than lived up to their billing and have their own niche in the history books after, for the first time, producing four southern hemisphere semifinalists. - Reuters RUGBY

No plans to change TMO system, say sport’s rulers LONDON: Rugby’s governing body has no plans to review the use of the television match official (TMO), despite a furore after it was not invoked during the controversial finale of Australia’s World Cup quarterfinal win over Scotland.

Australia edged the Scots 35-34 at Twickenham with a last minute three-pointer and, while TV replays showed the decisive penalty may have been awarded in error, the referee had not been permitted to consult the TMO due to the nature of the infringement.

“In the build-up to the tournament we have been at pains to explain the exact remit and protocols around the TMO,” a World Rugby (WR) spokesman said on Monday.

“The protocols are available on the website,” he said, adding that there are no plans to extend them.

Howls of protest South African referee Craig Joubert awarded the decisive penalty for deliberate offside in Sunday’s clash. Replays showed the decision should probably have been for accidental offside — resulting in a scrum which may have allowed Scotland to hang on to their lead and advance to the semifinals.

Howls of protest from players and pundits followed, all complaining that Joubert had not consulted the TMO over the decision.

Rugby luminaries including Ian McGeechan, Clive Woodward, Michael Lynagh, Lawrence Dallaglio and Gavin Hastings, all working as media pundits, were united in saying the TMO should have been involved.

Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw and coach Vern Cotter also lamented the lack of a TMO referral, as did the vast majority of the near-80,000 Twickenham crowd, with boos ringing around the ground as Bernard Foley slotted the penalty. - Reuters

ISL

Chennaiyin eye full points against NorthEast United GUWAHATI: Chennaiyin FC will look to bag all three points as they meet a struggling NorthEast United FC in an Indian Super League (ISL) encounter at the Indira Gandhi Stadium here on Tuesday.

NorthEast has been lacklustre this season with nothing going right for them. Coach Cesar Farias has thrown in every possible card he can but the team seems to crumble whenever the defence is put under pressure. And with the likes of Elano Blumer in the rival squad, the franchise would keep their fingers crossed and pray.

The team from the eastern part of the country has lost all its three outings so far, losing 1-3 to Kerala Blasters and FC Goa and 0-1 to FC Pune City.

On the other hand, Chennaiyin, after losing their first two encounters to Atletico de Kolkata (2-3) and Delhi Dynamos (0-1), have made a strong comeback and have beaten top sides like Goa (40) and Mumbai City FC (2-0).

This encounter will provide

The match will provide Chennaiyin the opportunity to get to nine points and be in the top three of the eight team standings. But with crowd support in favour of NorthEast, the tie won’t be a cakewalk

them the opportunity to get to nine points and be in the top three of the eight team standings.

But with crowd support in favour of NorthEast, the tie won’t be a cakewalk.

Marco Materazzi and his men will know how the vociferous supporters can spur the local players and they would have by now made plans to keep the NorthEast attackers at bay.

But the likes of Sanju Pradhan, Argentine striker Nicolas Velez and Ghanaian forward Francis Dadzie will surely keep the Chen-

naiyin defenders busy. At the other end too, Stiven Mendoza, who has so far scored five goals in the league, will be constantly looking for opportunities to have a run at the NorthEast defence and assisting him will be Elano and another Brazilian recruit Bruno Pelissari.

However, in head-to-heads NorthEast have beaten the visitors once (3-0) and the other one was a 2-2 draw.

The tie promises goals and will be an interesting watch as the hosts have nowhere to go but fight back. - IANS

C

SECTION

LIFESTYLE

T U ES DAY, OCTOB ER 2 0, 2 0 1 5

Dining WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM

F

rom a simple roasted dish to an exotic cuisine, there are so many ways to cook eggplants. Known for its

versatility, this vegetable shows up in almost all cuisines around the world. Today we have rounded up some of the popular eggplant recipes. Pick your favourite one.

Eggplants In Endless Ways S T O R Y PA L L AV I N I G A M | P H O T O S B Y A L I J A N I

C8

TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

LIFESTYLE BRIEFS

EGGPLANT PARMIGIANA This is a popular Italian cuisine, where a layered casserole much like lasagna is served with slices of globe eggplant instead of pasta.

Ingredients For the eggplants Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014;& ,! Ĺ&#x2014; !!*& (.Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014;- &. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014; /*Ĺ&#x2014;Ăł)/, Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014; /*-Ĺ&#x2014; , ,/' Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014; !!-Ĺ&#x2014;1"#-% Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014; /*-Ĺ&#x2014; ,' - (Ĺ&#x2014; " - Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014; /*-Ĺ&#x2014;')44 , && For the tomato sauce Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť. -*Ĺ&#x2014;)&#0 Ĺ&#x2014;)#& Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014; &)0 Ĺ&#x2014;'#( Ĺ&#x2014;! ,&# Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014;1")& Ĺ&#x2014;* & Ĺ&#x2014;.)' .) Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăź. -*Ĺ&#x2014;Ă°( &3Ĺ&#x2014; ")** Ĺ&#x2014; -#& Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; &. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; ** ,

between. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; ),Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014;- / Ĺ&#x2014;" .Ĺ&#x2014;)&#0 Ĺ&#x2014;)#&Ĺ&#x2014; in a pan, add garlic, and sautĂŠ ),Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014;'#(/. Ä&#x201E; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014;.)' .) -Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; chopped basil, and let it -#'' ,Ĺ&#x2014; ),Ĺ&#x2014;ÝúĹ&#x2014;'#(/. -Ä&#x201E; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; )1Ĺ&#x2014;& .Ä&#x201C;-Ĺ&#x2014; -- ' & Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; %#(!Ĺ&#x2014; dish, spread little bit of tomato sauce, arrange the eggplant Preparation slices to cover the base, then Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; &# Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014; !!*& (.Ĺ&#x2014;#(Ĺ&#x2014;,)/( -Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; again spread a layer of tomato sprinkle little salt on all the - / Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014;-*,#(%& Ĺ&#x2014; ,' - (Ĺ&#x2014; rounds then leave it to sweat " - Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014;')44 , && Ĺ&#x2014; for two hours. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; " (Ĺ&#x2014;,/ Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014; !!*& (.Ĺ&#x2014;#(Ĺ&#x2014;Ăł)/,Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; cheese. Arrange second layer of eggplants, spread tomato dip in whisked egg and then - / Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014;-*,#(%& Ĺ&#x2014;')44 , && Ĺ&#x2014; coat them in breadcrumbs. " - Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; ,' - (Ĺ&#x2014; " - Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; % Ĺ&#x2014;/(.#&Ĺ&#x2014;!)& (Ĺ&#x2014; ,)1(Ĺ&#x2014;#(Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; *, " . Ĺ&#x2014;)0 (Ĺ&#x2014; .Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťÄ&#x201A;ĂşĹ&#x2014; !, -Ĺ&#x2014; % Ĺ&#x2014; .Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťÄ&#x201A;ĂşĹ&#x2014; !, -Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2014; Centigrade. Turn them once in for 35 minutes.

./ĂŽ Ĺ&#x2014;1#."Ĺ&#x2014;' (3Ĺ&#x2014;-*# -Ĺ&#x2014;."#-Ĺ&#x2014;, #* Ĺ&#x2014;!#0 -Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; 2).# Ĺ&#x2014;Ăł 0)/,Ĺ&#x2014;.)Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014;-#'*& Ĺ&#x2014; !!*& (.Ä&#x201E;

(Ĺ&#x2014;."#-Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; !!*& (.Ĺ&#x2014;#-Ĺ&#x2014;Ă°,-.Ĺ&#x2014;' ,#( . Ĺ&#x2014;1#."Ĺ&#x2014; fragrant spices, then slow roasted until soft. It is then served with fresh minty couscous salad.

Ingredients Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ä&#x20AC;Ä&#x161;Ä Ĺ&#x2014; 3Ĺ&#x2014; !!*& (.-Ĺ&#x2014; For the stuffing Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014;)(#)(Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014;#( "Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014;!#(! , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014;! ,&# Ĺ&#x2014; &)0 Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014; ,# Ĺ&#x2014;, Ĺ&#x2014; "#&&# Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; (( &Ĺ&#x2014;- Ĺ&#x2014;*)1 , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; /'#(Ĺ&#x2014;*)1 , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăź.-*Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; ),# ( ,Ĺ&#x2014;*)1 , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăź.-*Ĺ&#x2014;!,)/( Ĺ&#x2014; ),# ( , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014;./,' ,# Ĺ&#x2014;*)1 , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014;, Ĺ&#x2014; "#&&#Ĺ&#x2014;*)1 , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; ,# Ĺ&#x2014;' (!)Ĺ&#x2014;*)1 , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť. -*Ĺ&#x2014;! , 'Ĺ&#x2014;' - & Ĺ&#x2014;*)1 , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăź. -*Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014;)#& Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; &.Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014;* ** , Preparation Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; & ( ,Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014;*/.Ĺ&#x2014;)(#)(Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014;!#(! ,Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014;! ,&# Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014;, Ĺ&#x2014; chilli and grind to make a smooth paste. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; )1Ĺ&#x2014;" .Ĺ&#x2014;)#&Ĺ&#x2014;#(Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;* (Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014;* -. Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; sautĂŠ till golden brown, add dry spice powders and sautĂŠ for two more minutes. $/-.Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014;- -)(#(!Ä&#x201E; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; /.Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014; !!Ĺ&#x2014;*& (.Ĺ&#x2014;#(Ĺ&#x2014; )/,Ĺ&#x2014;+/ , (.-Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; -./ĂŽĹ&#x2014;#.Ĺ&#x2014;1#."Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014;-./Ăś(!Ä&#x201E; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; )1Ĺ&#x2014;#(Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; , -"Ĺ&#x2014;* (Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014;" .Ĺ&#x2014;)#&Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014;-./ĂŽ Ĺ&#x2014; eggplants, cook in low heat till cooked. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; ,0 Ĺ&#x2014;").Ĺ&#x2014;1#."Ĺ&#x2014;-)' Ĺ&#x2014; , -"Ĺ&#x2014;( (Ĺ&#x2014; , Ä&#x201E;

Pallavi Nigam

Pallavi Nigam completed her culinary education at ICIF in Italy and worked as a chef for Grand Hyatt, Mumbai. She is now based in Muscat where she writes recipes and takes cooking classes.

Contact her: pallavi_nigam@hotmail.com twitter @pallavizza pallavizza.com

Ingredients Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014; !!*& (.For marinating the eggplants Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014;! ,&# Ĺ&#x2014; &)0 -Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; ,/-" Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăź.-*Ĺ&#x2014;!,)/( Ĺ&#x2014; /'#( Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014;.-*Ĺ&#x2014;!,)/( Ĺ&#x2014; ),# ( , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014; "#&&#Ĺ&#x2014;Ăł % Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014;* *,#% Ĺ&#x2014;*)1 , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăź.-*Ĺ&#x2014;$/# Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014;& ')( Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăž. -*Ĺ&#x2014;)&#0 Ĺ&#x2014;)#& Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťÄ&#x17E;ĂźĹ&#x2014;.-*Ĺ&#x2014;- &.

For couscous salad Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťÄ&#x17E;ĂźĹ&#x2014; /*Ĺ&#x2014; )/- )/-Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; )#&#(!Ĺ&#x2014;1 . , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; &. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014; ")** Ĺ&#x2014;-*,#(!Ĺ&#x2014;)(#)( Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014; ")** Ĺ&#x2014;, Ĺ&#x2014; "#&&# Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014; ")** Ĺ&#x2014; / /' , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014;. -*Ĺ&#x2014; ")** Ĺ&#x2014;* ,-& 3 Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť. -*Ĺ&#x2014; ")** Ĺ&#x2014;'#(. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; /# Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014;& ')( Preparation Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; #,-.Ĺ&#x2014;& .Ĺ&#x2014;/-Ĺ&#x2014;*, * , Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014;' ,#( Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; In a bowl mix all the ingredients of marination then cut the rounds of eggplants, make cuts on it, and rub the marinade on it nicely. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; & Ĺ&#x2014;)(Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;,) -.#(!Ĺ&#x2014;., 3Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; % Ĺ&#x2014;#(Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; *, " . Ĺ&#x2014;)0 (Ĺ&#x2014; .Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťÄ&#x201A;ĂşĹ&#x2014; !, -Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;.#&&Ĺ&#x2014;-) .Ä&#x201E; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; )Ĺ&#x2014;' % Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014; )/- )/-Ĺ&#x2014;- & Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014;, "3 , . Ĺ&#x2014; ." Ĺ&#x2014; )/- )/-Ĺ&#x2014;1#."Ĺ&#x2014; )#&#(!Ĺ&#x2014;1 . ,Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014;$/-.Ĺ&#x2014; enough to cover it, for 5 minutes. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; " (Ĺ&#x2014;#(Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; )1&Ĺ&#x2014;'#2Ĺ&#x2014; &&Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014;#(!, # (.-Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; salad together. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; )Ĺ&#x2014;- ,0 Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; ,, (! Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014;,)/( &-Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; eggplants in a plate then top it with fresh couscous salad.

Pallavi Nigam Pallavi Nigam completed her culinary education at ICIF in Italy and worked as a chef for Grand Hyatt, Mumbai. She is now based in Muscat where she writes recipes and takes cooking classes.

Contact her: pallavi_nigam@hotmail.com twitter @pallavizza pallavizza.com

KITCHEN CALAMITIES

Talk of burgers and we immediately conjure images of fast food restaurants in town. But why not make them at home? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just healthy but tastier too. Just keep in mind these tips and enjoy a new twist of an old favourite.

Make the Best Burger

1 While buying meat for making burgers do not buy lean meat for the pattice. Meat with little fat makes juicier pattice, giving it a better taste.

2 Season the mince, be it chicken or beef, properly. Break the mince and add salt, pepper, and other condiments and mix well.

But donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t overdo the mixing process as the mince gets rubbery.

3 Clean the grill properly before putting the pattice if you are grilling it. They might stick to the grill if previous residual is not cleant well.

4 Make a shallow indent in the centre of the pattice for an even cooking. Also donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t flip it frequently. Avoid using a spatula to flatten the burger as the juices come out in the process.

5 Carefully choose the toppings. Do not crowd your burger with too many things.

If you pack too much then you wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to enjoy the real ďŹ&#x201A;avours.

Struggling with a kitchen calamity of your own? Want advice? Share your horror stories and your cooking tips with swati@timesofoman.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ALI JANI

GRILLED EGGPLANT SALAD WITH COUSCOUS

PHOTOGRAPHY: ALI JANI

INDIAN SPICED STUFFED EGGPLANT

T U E S DAY, O CTO B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5

Let’s Chaat

BY S WAT I DA S G U P TA

I

f you thought fast food is only about burgers, fried chicken and, pizzas then a visit to any of the states in North India will introduce you to a trail of lip smacking Indian fast foods popularly known as chaat.

Going back to the roots of these popular street food from India, we learn that chaat was first introduced in the royal kitchen of Emperor Shah Jahan from the Mughal Dynasty.

Legends say that once when the emperor had fallen ill, the doctors had advised him to eat light food but laden with fresh spices and condiments to build his immunity.

That’s how chaat was born and over the years have added not only new flavours and tastes but also the way it is served.

While traditionally they were served in disposable plates made from sewn leaves, they are now served in paper plates at road side eateries. Over the years chaats have even found a place in the precincts of many restaurants and high end eateries where the road side experience is recreated to perfection. So if one is craving for chaat then they do not have to brave the narrow streets and lanes to get a bite of their favourite street food.

Known for their uniqueness in taste, chaat continues to be the most sought after versatile street food. And having traversed several nations, this street food is no less in its popularity in Muscat. It might not match in numbers if you compare it with India but here in Muscat there are some restaurants that do serve these hot and spicy offerings, albeit with some variations. While in India, they are laden with chillies, but here, spices are moderate keeping in mind the local taste buds.

So let’s chat over our chaat cravings. - swati@timesofoman.com

LIFESTYLE

Corn Chaat

In this corn can be mixed with pomegranate, orange, bell pepper, mint, coriander, and tamarind. Add a dash of lime.

Egg Chaat

If you thought chaat is only a vegetarian fare then you must try this special chaat made with eggs. Boil eggs, cut it into slices and add chopped tomatoes, chopped onion and coriander leaves. Top with boondi to add some crunch.

Papri Chaat

Crisp fried wafers made of refined flour is served with boiled potatoes, boiled chick peas, chillies, yoghurt and tamarind chutney and topped with chaat masala and sev.

Tandoori Paneer Chaat

Make a thin paste of tandoori masala powder and vinegar and marinate the paneer in this mixture. Grill the paneer cubes or sauté in a teaspoon of oil. Add mango powder, green chillies, green coriander, chaat masala, and the lemon juice. Mix well.

Fruit Chaat

This is the most refreshing and healthy snack where fruit pieces are marinated and grilled and tossed with black salt and a hint of honey.

Must Have in Muscat Murgh Chaat At Yellow Chillis +968 2454 1717 Tikki Chaat At Bollywood Chaat +968 2456 5653 Delhi Chaat Platter At Hormuz Grand +968 2435 0500

Aloo Chaat

This is a spicy potato snack where potatoes are cut into square pieces and fried. Later they are tossed with tamarind chutney. Adding cilantro adds to the flavours.

Papri Chaat At Puranmal +968 2470 6969

Channa Chaat

This is a mixture of boiled chickpeas, green peas, potatoes, pomegranate and tomatoes. Add mint and tamarind chutney.

Chole/Channa Chaat At Chaat Corner, Dawat +968 2470 7722 Dahi Bhalla Chaat At Kamat Restaurant/Rex Road +968 2479 3355

C9

C10

TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

FIND-IT-ALL CINEMA SCHEDULE

PRAYER TIMINGS

@MGM

@SOHAR

@RUWI

SHATTI Crimsom Peak (Drama, Horror)(15+)(2D) Cast : Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Chastain, Tom Hiddleston 2:45, 7:00, 9:15, 11.30 pm War Pigs (Action, War) (12+) Cast : Luke Goss, Dolph Lundgren, Chuck Liddell 4:00, 8:00 pm The Martian (3D) (Action, Sci-Fi) – PG Cast : Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain 2:15, 4:45, 11:45 pm Pet Pals in Windland (Animation) (PG) Voice Overs: Gerolamo Alchieri, Nanni Baldini 12:45, 2:30 pm 99 Homes (Drama) (PG) Cast : Andrew Garfield, Michael Shannon 6:00 pm Legend (Biography, Crime, Thriller) – 12+ Cast Tom Hardy, Emily Browning 9:15 pm Before We Go (Comedy, Drama) (15+) Cast : Chris Evans, Alice Eve, Emma Fitzpatrick 7:30 pm Momentum (Action, Thriller) (15+)(2D) Cast: Olga Kurylenko, James Purefoy 12:30, 5:00, 9:45, 11:45 pm MUSCAT GRAND MALL Momentum 2D (Action, Thriller) (15+) 12:15, 7:15 & 11:45PM Crimsom Peak 2D (Drama, Horror) (15+) Cast : Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Chastain, 9:15 & 11:30PM Gold Class : 2:30, 6:30 & 8:45PM Pet Pals In Windland 2D (Animation) (PG) 10:30AM, 1:00PM & 7:00PM Gold Class : 4:45PM Pan 3D (Adventure | Family | Fantasy ) (PG) 10:45AM & 2:30PM The Martian 3D (Action| Adventure) (PG) 4:30 & 9:00PM

Crimsom Peak (Drama, Horror)(15+)(2D) Cast : Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Chastain, Tom Hiddleston Timing: 2:45, 7:00, 9:15, 11.30 pm

Momentum : 2D (Action, Thriller) 15+ Cast : Olga Olga Kurylenko, James Purefoy, Morgan Freeman Timing: 12:15, 7:15 & 11:45PM

Gold Class: 11:00PM The Walk 3D (Adventure) (PG) Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt 2:15PM Etiquette for Mistresses 2D (Tagalog) Cast: Kris Aquino, Claudine Barretto (TBC) 4:45PM

Cast: Levi Miller, Hugh Jackman 2:00 PM Crimsom Peak - 2D (15+) Drama, Fantasy, Cast – Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Chastain, Tom Hiddleston 4:00, 11:55 PM Life of Josuty – 2D (PG12) Family, Drama Cast: Dileep, Jyothi Krishna , Kalabhavan Mani 8:50 PM The Fighter – 2D (TBC) Action Cast: Ram Charan, Rakul Preet Singh 7:00 PM

AZAIBA Momentum – 2D (15+) Action, Thriller Cast: Olga Kurylenko, James Purefoy, Morgan Freeman 2:15, 11:50pm Pyar Ka Punchnama – 2D (PG12) Comedy, Cast - Sunny Singh Nijjar, Sonalli Sehgal 2:15, 6:15, 8:45, 11:15 PM Pet Pals In Windland – 2D (PG) Animation 4:45 PM Jazbaa – 2D (12+) Drama, Action, Adventure Cast – Aishwarya Rai Bacchan, Irrfan Khan, 2:15, 6:15, 8:30, 10:45 PM The Martian – 3D (PG) Action, Adventure, 2:10, 6:15 PM Wedding Pullav – 2D (PG) Comedy Cast: Rishi Kapoor, Satish Kaushik, Upasna 4:45, 9:35 PM Pan – 3D (PG) Adventure, Family, Fantasy

TO MUSCAT (RUWI) Arrival Operating time days

Dept time

Destination

Arrival Operating time days

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (ROUTE 36)

TEMPERATURE

15:00 15:00 15:00

05:30 05:30 05:30

Maximum

16:30 18:00 19:30

Daily Daily Daily

Sur Quriyat Ruwi

06:45 08:30 10:00

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

06:30 06:30 08:00 13:00 13:00 16.00 16.00

07:00 07:00 13:30 13:00 13:00 13:00 17:00

Sohar Buraimi Buraimi Sohar Buraimi Sohar Buraimi

08:50 Daily 11:00 Daily 14:30 Daily via Ibri 15:45 Daily 17:40 Daily 18.35 Daily 20:20 Daily

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52) 17:30

Sinaw

Nizwa Yanqul

20:50

Daily

Nizwa Al Araqi

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

Sur Sur

10:20 12:30

Daily Daily

Fahud Yibal

Daily Daily

Salalah Marmul Salalah Salalah

Daily Daily

Marmul

20:00 20:30 23:30 07:40

Daily Daily Daily Daily

Dubai

16:50

Daily

Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai

06:00 06:00

Nizwa Ruwi

08:40 11:00

Daily Daily

15:40 15:40

Nizwa Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

06:00 14:30

Ruwi Ruwi

10:45 19:00

Daily Daily

12:30 12:30

Fahud Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

Ruwi Marmul Ruwi Ruwi

19:50 13:15 22:30 07:30

07:00

06:00

Marmul

16:30

Daily

Daily

15:00

Salalah

07:00

Daily

10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

07:30 07:30 13:00 13:00 15:30 15:30

Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH/SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

07:00 07:00 07:00

16:00 16.00 16.00

Fujairah Sharjah Dubai

Minimum

11.45 13.30 14.00

Film information 24791641 / 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om

Life Of Josutty (Family Ent) Cast: Dileep, Joythi Krishna, & Rachana Narayanan 3-30 Pm Cinema -2 ; 6-30 & 9-30 Pm Cinema Main Rudrama Devi (Telugu) (Act/Thrill ) Cast : Anushka Shetty, Allu Arjun & Rana Dagubati 6-45 Pm Cinema -4 Rudrama Devi (Tamil) (Act/thrill) Cast: Anushka Shetty, Alu Arjun & Rana Dagubati 3-45, 6-45 & 9-45 Pm Cinema-3 Kunji Ramayanam (Mal) (Drama/Com) Cast: Vineeth Srinivasan, Aju Verghese & Srinda 3-45 & 9-45 Pm At Cinema -4 The Fighter (Brucelee) (Telugu) (Act) Cast: Ramcharan, Rakul Preet Singh & Bramanandan 3-00 Pm Cinema Main; 6-30 & 9-30 Pm Cinema -2 Next Change: Ennu Ninte Moideen 10 (Mal), Endrathu Kulla (Tamil), Shaandaar (Hindi) Programmes are subject to change

WITH LOVE

0

RITHIN SESHADRI October 20, 2014

0

RELATIVE HUMIDITY

55-85%

Send us a colour photograph of the child (below 17 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 lifestyle@timesofoman.com

Daily Daily Daily

Sharjah Fujairah Ruwi

16:30 18.15 23.00

LISTINGS

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 EMBASSIES IN OMAN

Daily Daily Daily Daily

DUBAI TO SALALAH (ROUTE 102)

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 06:00 06:00 13:00 13:00 15:00 15:00

Daily

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101)

SALALAH TO DUBAI (ROUTE 102) 15:00

10:25

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (ROUTE 100)

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101) 06:00

Ruwi

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (ROUTE 62)

10:30 11:15

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (ROUTE 100) 07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

07:00

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) 12:00 18:45

TO FAHUD - YIBAL (ROUTE 62) 06:30 06:30

32 27

STAR CINEMA

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54)

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) 07:30 14:30

BURAIMI Momentum – 2D (Action, Thriller) (15+) Cast: Ogla Kurylenko, Morgan Freeman 6:30, 10:00, 11:45PM Crimsom Peak – 2D (Drama, Fantasy (15+) Cast: Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Chastain, 4:15, 11:30PM Kung Fu Jungle – 2D (Action | Thriller) (12+) Cast: Donnie Yen, Charlie Yeung, Baoqiang 4:45, 8:15, 9:45, 11:45PM Life of Josutty – 2D (Drama, Action) (PG12) Cast: Dileep, Jyothi Krishna, Kalabhavan Mani 6:45PM Jazbaa – 2D (Drama, Action ) (12+)

The Martian (3D) (PG) (Action, Sci-Fi) 2:15, 5:05PM Crimsom Peak (2D) (15+) (Drama) 10:00AM, 2:00, 7:40, 11:45PM Momentum (2D) (15+) (Action/Thriller) Cast: Olga Kurylenko, James Purefoy, Morgan 12:00, 4:05, 9:50, 11:30PM Pan (3D) (PG) (Adventure/Family/Fantasy) 12:15PM Pet Pals In Windland (2D) (PG) (Animation ) Voice Overs: Gerolamo Alchieri, Nanni Baldini 10:45AM, 1:45PM War Pigs (2D)(12+) (Action/War) Cast: Luke Goss, Dolph Lundgren, Chuck 10:15AM, 11:35PM Jazbaa (2D)(12+) (Drama/Action/Adventure) 7:00PM Kung Fu Jungle (2D) (12+) (Action/Thriller) Cast: Donnie Yen, Charlie Yeung, Baoqiang 12:05, 3:15, 9:15PM Wedding Pullav (2D) (PG) (Romance/) Cast: Rishi Kapoor, Satish Kaushik, Upasna 4:45PM Life of Josutty (2D) (PG12) (Mal) (Family) 8:35PM The Fighter (2D) (PG12) (Telugu) (Action) Cast: Ram Charan, Rakul Preet Singh 6:00PM

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54)

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54) 08:00 08:00

08:55 Daily 11:40 Daily 20:20 Daily via Ibri 14:55 Daily 17:40 Daily 19:20 Daily 22:15 Daily

Cast: Luke Goss, Dolph Lundgren, Chuck 2:30, 11:45 PM Wedding Pullav - 2D (TBC) Romance| Cast: Rishi Kapoor, Satish Kaushik, Upasna 4:30, 6:45 PM Life of Josutty - 2D (M) (PG12) Family Cast: Dileep, Jyothi Krishna , Kalabhavan 6:00 PM The Fighter 2D (Telugu) (TBC) Action Cast: Ram Charan, Rakul Preet Singh 8:45 PM

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52)

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54) 14:30 14:30

Sohar Ruwi Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

Daily Daily Daily

Crimsom Peak (Drama, Horror)(15+)(2D) Cast : Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Chastain, Tom Hiddleston 4.00, 7.30, 9.45 & 11.55 pm CP No: 2785 (15+) Momentum (Action / Thriller ) Cast: Olga Kurylenko, James Purefoy, Morgan Freeman 4.00, 8.00, 10.00 & 11.55 p.m.

CP No: 2786 (15+) Before We Go (Comedy / Drama / Romance) Cast: Chris Evans, Alice Eve, Emma Fitzpatrick 2.00 & 6.00 pm CP No: 2787 (15+) Pet Pals in Windland (Animation / Comedy ) Voice Overs: Belinda Keller, Anthony Lawson 2.00 & 6.00 pm CP No: 2788 (PG)

SALALAH

WEATHER

QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (ROUTE 36) Quriyat Sur Jaalan

SOHAR The Martian - 3D (PG) Action, Adventure Cast: Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Kristen 2:15, 9:00, 11:40 PM Crimsom Peak - 2D (15+)Drama, Horror Cast: Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Chastain, 5:00, 9:15, 11:30 PM Momentum -2D (15+)Action | Thriller Cast: Olga Kurylenko, Morgan Freeman 7:00, 11:30 PM Before We Go – 2D (15+)Comedy| Romance Cast: Chris Evans, Alice Eve, Emma Fitzpatrick 2:45, 7:15 PM Jazbaa - 2D (12+) Drama, Action & Adventure 4:30, 9:00 PM Pet Pals In Windland - 2D (PG) Animation 2:45, 4:15 PM War Pigs - 2D(12+)Action | War

RUWI Screen 1 Pyaar Ka Punchnama-2 (Comedy) – PG12 Cast : Kartik Aaryan, Nushrat Bharucha 3.30, 9.30 PM Jazbaa (Action / Drama ) – 12+ Cast : Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Irrfan Khan 6.30 PM Screen 2 Jazbaa (Action / Drama ) – 12+ 3.45, 9.45 PM Singh Is Bling - 2D (PG12) Action |Comedy 6.45 PM

LONG DISTANCE BUS TIMINGS (OMAN NATIONAL TRANSPORT COMPANY SAOC) *SUBJECT TO CHANGE

FROM MUSCAT (RUWI)

Screen 3 Talvar (Mystery/Thriller) – PG12 Cast: Irrfan Khan, Konkona Sen Sharma, Tabu 3.45, 9.45 PM Jawani Phir Nahi Aani (Comedy) – 12+ 6.45 PM Cast: Humayun Saeed, Javed Sheikh

Film information 24540856 / Advance Booking 24540855 Website: www.albahjacinemaoman.com

SUR Momentum (Action | Thriller) (15+) Cast: Olga Kurylenko, James Purefey 4:00, 5:45, 9:30 PM Crimson Peak (Drama | Horror) (15+) 7:30, 11:55 PM War Pigs (Action | War) (12+) Cast: Dolph Lindgren, Luke Goss, Chuck 4:15, 6:00, 7:45 PM Jazbaa (Hindi) (Action | Drama) (12+) Cast: Aishwarya Rai Bacchan, Irrfan Khan, 9:45 PM Life of Josutty (Mal) (Family) (PG12) 11:15 PM

Before We Go – 2D (15+)Comedy| Romance Cast : Chris Evans, Alice Eve, Emma Fitzpatrick 2:45, 7:15 PM

Pyaar Ka Punchnama-2 (Comedy) – PG12 Cast : Kartik Aaryan, Nushrat Bharucha, , Sunny Singh Nijjar 3.30, 9.30 PM

BAHJA CINEMA

4:30, 7:00PM Singh is Bling– 2D (Action/Comedy/) (PG) 9:15PM

CITY CINEMA Contact (10 am to 6PM) 24567664 | 68. www.citycinemaoman.net facebook.com/citycinemaoman

Destination

11.57pm 3.15pm 5.43pm 6.53pm 4.50am

CHILDREN BELOW THE AGE OF 3 YEARS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE CINEMA | BOX-OFFICE COUNTER OPENS 30-MINUTES PRIOR TO THE SCREENING OF THE FIRST SHOW

@SHATTI

Dept time

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

Daily Daily Daily

Afghanistan Algeria Bahrain Bangladesh Brazil Brunei China Cyprus Egypt France Germany India Indonesia Iran Iraq Italy Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya South Korea Kuwait

24698 791/4 24605 593 24 605 074/133 24 698 660 24640100 24 603533 24 696782 24 699815 24 600 982/411 24681 800 24835000 24684500 2469 1050 24 696 944/7 24603642 24693727 24 601 028 24692760/1/3 24 692418 24 697664 24 691490 24 699628

Lebanon Libya Malaysia Morocco Nepal Netherlands Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Senegal Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Switzerland Syria Tanzania Thailand Tunisia Turkey UAE United Kingdom United States Yemen

24 693208 24603466 24698329/643 24696152/3 24696177 24603706 24603439 24601312 24605335 24 691 153/2/4 24602894 24601705 24694139 24697977 24647300 24691101 24697841/2 24697875 24603267 24697904 24601 174 24 602684/5 24603486 24697050/1/2 24400000 24609000 24643400 24600815

PHARMACIES Round the clock Al Hashar Pharmacy, Ruwi 24783334

Apollo Medical Centre, Hamriya Muscat Pharmacy, Ruwi Salalah Atlas Pharmacy, Ghubra Muscat Region Apollo, Al Hamriya Muscat, A Seeb Market Muscat, Al Khuwair Muscat, Al Hail South Dhofar Region Muscat, Al Nahdha Road, Salalah

24782666 24702542 23291635; 24503585 24787766 24421691 24485740 24537080

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 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 24784545 Swiss International Airlines 24796692 Thai Airways 24705934

T U E S DAY, O CTO B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5

C11

LIFESTYLE FOOD NOTE

OW KN UR YO ICE SP

5 Ways You can Reduce Food Waste at Home

ASAFOETIDA Asafoetida powder is the strongest and most pungent spice having a unique smell and flavour. It is commonly used in vegetarian dishes, especially in which garlic and ginger are not used and is a popular spice in India and Middle Eastern countries. swati@timesofoman.com

2. Work With What You’ve Got Regularly check use-by dates and make meals using items that are reaching their expiry date. This will help reduce the amount of food you throw out, and the different combinations of ingredients can make for some exciting meals. Check out a site like foodgawker for some inspiration. And remember, if stored correctly, some foods can be safe for a few days after their expiry date.

Staple foods like bread often make up a big portion of wasted food. But bread is such a versatile food: it can be used in soups, cakes, crumbles, meatballs and, of course, bread crumbs for coating meat. It’s also one of the best foods to freeze. You can take one slice out at a time and defrost it in the toaster or oven. Think twice before throwing bread out.

When you make a big meal, save any excess food. It can be your lunch for the following day, or simply a snack for when you get peckish. You can freeze most food in individual portions in freezer bags, too.

What’s It? Asafoetida is a gum, greyish in colour and is sold as a fine yellow powder. In India it is called hing. It has a pungent smell and its flavour is similar to garlic and is mostly used in vegetarian dishes.

History Asafoetida is grown chiefly in Iran and Afghanistan from where it is exported to the rest of the world. In India it is cultivated in Kashmir. It is a perennial fennel that grows wild to 3.6 metres (12 ft) high, in large natural forests.

Store It Right Asafoetida is known for its distinctive smell and hence it is important to keep it in a sealed bottle or else the whole cabinet will smell.

Culinary Uses Asafoetida should be used in very less quantity for flavour, just a pinch. Add directly to the oil or to the gravy. It is used in making lentil dishes, soups, pickles, and fish.

1. Shop Smart Buy less food. Seems simple, but really, this is one of the most important things you can do. More often than not, some of the food we buy in the supermarket will spoil before it’s eaten and get thrown away.

Even if it’s only a small amount each time, it all adds up. Buy a little less food each time you visit the supermarket, even if this means making more trips. Making a meal plan for the week can help. Then write a shopping list containing only the items you know you will use for those meals. And the number one classic piece of advice: never go grocery shopping when you’re hungry!

3. Store Food Properly Proper storage of certain foods can drastically impact their longevity. You should have a cool and dry cupboard or storage area for any dry, long-life products. Sealable plastic containers, jars with lids, and resealable bags are all ideal for these foods. Choose a container

that has adequate space for your produce without allowing too much air inside. Keep your fridge clean and hygienic, and at the right temperature (ideally around 4 degrees Celsius) and your food will stay fresh for longer. Get into the habit of rotating your foods in the fridge each time you shop. Bring items from the back towards the front, this prevents anything from being left at the back and spreading bacteria if it goes off.

4. Serve Sensible Portions Avoid over-serving food when cooking for friends and family by serving smaller portions at first, then dishing out any more to those who are still hungry. You might also try serving food on smaller plates — the same amount of food on a smaller plate seems like more food, as it seems to be taking up more space on the plate.

5. Reuse, Recycle Many items that you might just toss in the trash once you’ve used them still have life left in them. Take used coffee grounds for example — there are plenty of inventive ways you can use them before they go in the trash. You can also use old lemons to disinfect surfaces, or even clean the inside of your fridge. You could try composting. It’s nature’s way of recycling food waste. Much of what you would have otherwise put in the trash can go on a compost heap.

–helpling.ae

C12

TU ESDAY, OCTOB ER 20, 2015

LIFESTYLE

IN GR ON ED E IE NT Fi ve W ay s

1

START YOUR DAY Grapes are ideal for breakfast and can also be eaten as a snack.

Blend it with your smoothie or add to your cereals.

2

3

GREAT STUFFING

DESSERT DELIGHT

Stuff a whole chicken with grapes, onion, lemon wedges and some fresh herbs and bake in the oven.

Dip grapes in yoghurt, sprinkle chopped pistachios, and freeze it.

Serve it as a dessert.

4

5

ROAST THEM

WHEN FREEZED

Roast whole grapes with sausages and shallots. Top with fresh herbs and serve over polenta, a cornmeal dish.

Cut grapes into halves. Put them in ice cube trays and ďŹ ll with a mixture of water and pureed grapes. Freeze them. Add these ice cubes in water for a ďŹ&#x201A;avourful drink.

Grapes are special and their speciality lies in being a perfect accompaniment to several dishes, both savoury and sweet. Add them to pastries, pies, tart or salads, they pair well with many cuisines.

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W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M T U E S DAY, O C T O B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5

SECTION

CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

RENT

D2

VACANCY

D4

CARGO

D8

D2

T U E S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

FOR RENT

Furnished room for rent at Al Khuwair R.O 225/- for family only.

Contact: 99251975

02 BHK residential flat opposite to Al Nadha Hospital. Contact: 99342733 / 99795241 1000sqm industrial and with compound well & two rooms at Misfah.

Contact: 99342733 / 99795241 Readymade office space for rent (100sm) in Bank Melli Iran building, MBA area, Ruwi, opposite Center Point. Contact: 99011352 Shop / store for rent about 250 sq mtrs area in the heart of Ruwi City good for restaurant, store or general sale. Contact 99326639 One /two, B/R, Res / comm. flats near Bank Muscat Bausher from owner directly . Contact: 92158031 Flat for rent in Al Hail 5 floor building 1bedroom R.O 180/-, 2 bedroom R.O 260/- Mabela, 3 bedroom R.O 280/- near Nesto Hyper market.

Contact: 99614346 2BHK flat + AC Amerat 6 km from Amerat police. Contact: 95521432 600 SQT Commercial flat for rent opposite Oman flourmill Darsait more details please Contact: 91214849/ 95729711 1BHK R.O 190/- & 2BHK R.O 225/near Medical Darsait Muttrah house.

Contact: 98748925

3 rooms, Majlis, living room, kitchen, 4 toilets & swimming pool in Amerat Heights (phase one).

Contact: 99277377

Villa Al Amerat behind Al Raffah Hospital 5BHK, living room, hall, 6 bathrooms, split ac family only 425 R.O. Contact : 92479515

For rent one bedroom Majlis, 2 toilets, kitchen, balcony Greater Muttrah near Muscat Electricity distribution new building rent R.O 230/-. Contact: 99243059

Um Obelah 5/1 just walking distance from the Nesto hypermarket and opposite the new pullman mall, 2 bedrooms with two toilets and seating area on 4th floor. only 250 omani rial. Contact 99203381

Deluxe, spacious & air conditioned two bedroom flats with good quality finishes, wardrobes & secured basement parking are available for rent in Azaiba North, close to 18th November Street. Contact: 93888666 / 24493666/ 99228454

Deluxe 2 bedroom flats MBD, Ruwi, Wadi Kabir. Contact: 99472457 / 24707340

Flat for rent, 3 bedrooms, kitchen & bathroom in wadi kabir for 280 RO. Contact : 97771444

Al Hail Villa & Flats.

Contact: 95282986

3 BHK Penthouse Flat with Split A/Cs, Free Unlimited Broadband WiFi, Security access system, Pvt. Terrace & Secured car park, Opposite Kims Hospital Al Falaj, Monthly Rent: 625/-.

Contact: 99657906 or 24702141

Bedroom ground floor apartment with sitting, 2 baths, big richen close to Indian School near to Mars hypermarket Wadi Kabir.

Contact: 98011224

02 BHK commercial / residential (with split AC) Flat at Honda road.

Contac: 99342733 / 99795241

1000 sq mtrs industrial land in Ghala suitable for ware house, work shop etc. Contact : 24700120 / 92584715 New buildings commercial / residential in Muttrah both will BE rented out for one company only for more details. Contact: 99364735/95729711 Deluxe 3 BHK Penthouse with Seaview, ideal for office / residence at Qurum near PDO. #9772 1313 Villa at Al Khuwair having six bedrooms, six bathrooms, sitting, dinning, hall, kitchen . Contact 24833972/24833974/99367448

Flat 2bedrooms, 2 toilets, kitchen and sitting room in Al Ansab.

Contact: 95302993 / 95216161 Office/Shop 28 SQM, Wadikhabeer, Contact 93004902 2BHK with Split Unit A/C , Wadikhabeer near Indian School, 99441193, 93004802 2BHK with Split Units , WadiKhabeer, 93004802.

Single BHK flat available in Honda road Ruwi Contact 24833972/24833974/99367448

Flats and shops for rent in Ruwi, MBD Mumtaz area. Contact : 97293708 / 92433127

Brand new deluxe flats located near Seeb fly over on the right hand side of the main road coming from the Seeb palace roundabout, two bedrooms family, hall, kitchen, 3 toilets, balcony & split unit AC. Contact: 97755586

2 BHK available Ghubra near Al Maha hotel. Contact: 99269751 1BHK , 3BHK flats at Wadi Al Kabir new building with split unit and lift behind Muscat Bakery.

Contact: 99338133

1BHK Wadi Kabir. #99024730

Air conditioned two bedroom flats centrally located at Al Khuwair are available for rent. Contact: 93888666 / 24493666 / 99228454 2 rooms, bath room & kitchen OR. 175/- & 2 B.H.K OR. 250/- Wadi Kabir near Sana. Contact: 95094028 Flat Al Khuwair near Bader AL Samaa, 2 BHK living room, 2 bathrooms, Kitchen split ac family only 350 R.O. Contact 92479515

1& 2 BHK C.B.D. Contact: 99024730 Duplex flat Al Athaiba, near Sultan Center 3BHK, 3 Bathrooms, hall & living room family only 500/-R.O. Contact: 92479515 Flat AL Ghubrah near 18 Nov ST, bedroom, living room, 2 bathrooms, first floor without ac family only 325/- R.O. Contact: 92479515 Deluxe beach front villa at Al Hail North with 5 bedrooms and Staff quarter having excellent finishes is available for immediate occupation.

Contact: 93888666 / 244493666 / 99228454

Flat 3 mint from Indian School, 2 BHK, living room, 3 bathrooms without A/c, Ground floor family only 340/-R.O. Contact 92479515 Flat for rent 2BHK Wadi Kabir near Kuwaiti Mosque. Contact: 97007934 / 92629232 Staff accommodation / 2 storey full building available for rent in Rusayl, near Industrial area. Contact: 99352441 / 98116480 / 99358724 2 bed room flat at Al Khodh commercial Street Souq. Contact : 99224748 / 99332297

Workers’ campus, shops, workshops, stores in a building in Al Misfah, Wilayat Bausher.

Contact 98918090 Brand new residential flats in Wadi Kabir near Muscat football club, have 2 bedroom family hall, 2 toilets, Kitchen with spilt AC for 250/- R.O. Contact: 95999904 / 98585889 / 92383886 2bed room villa in Sidab, 2 Bedroom villa in Wadi Kabeer. Contact : 95755953 / 95555162 Villa for rent in Wadi Kabeer.

Contact: 95562646 / 99059333 Furnished flat for rent, 3 rooms with attached bathroom, 1 dining room, 1 sitting room, 1 kitchen at Al Hail South. Contact 99835995 For rent a full office building of 3100 sq mtrs opposite to Central Bank in CBD (Ruwi) for R.O 4 per Sq mtrs. Contact: 95330200 600 SQT commercial flat for rent opposite Oman flourmill Darsait more details.#91214849/ 99364735 1 room, 2 rooms, 3 rooms with all supplements including water electricity and sewage. Also we provide the following services free 1plumber, electrician for any failed center for garbage on price call on Farahat 98020768 , Hilal 96541263 New flats for rent At Darsait near to Ministry of Sports, Mumtaz area the flats includes1 living room, 2 bedrooms, Kitchen, 3 toilets, every rooms with split A/C, high quality finishing, rent RO 340 /-.

Contact: 00968 92225523

T U E S DAY, O C T O B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5

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DAILY GUIDE

Running furniture showroom for urgent sale.

Ladies beauty parlor ƐĂůĞ Ăƚ DƵƩ ƌĂŚ͘

Contact - 91135930 Ware house space for rent at Ghala and Barka up to 20000/- Sqm. Contact: 99509460 / 93731363

Running furniture showroom for urgent sale.

Ladies beauty parlor ƐĂůĞ Ăƚ DƵƩ ƌĂŚ͘

Contact - 91135930 FOR RENT

For sale A reputed Muscat based logistics company owned & well maintained MAN prime mover (2011) & Trailer (40 ton) available for sale. model year 2011. Done (730000) kms and in excellent condition.

1, 2 BHK in Azaiba. Contact: 99385835 / 99428143 1BHK flats available for rent in CBD area. Contact: 98116480 1 & 2 bedroom flats available for rent in wadi-kabir (opp: pencil bldg), ideal for company staff / families bulk corporate deal possible.

Contact: 97677170

FOR SALE Toyota Fortuner Safari2013 First hand owner from oman Toyota agent Kilometers Reading : 41700 km Phone:95203620

ACC. AVAILABLE Furnished single room for Exe. bachelor at Rex Road near Kamat Hotel with WIFI available. Contact 92873832 Furnished room available in Ruwi.

Contact: 99740622 Sharing accommodation available in Bausher with split AC. Contact: 99223261

Well running shop at Hamriya (5 yrs old), for immediate sale. With 2 visa activity printing & stationery, designing, corporate gift items, signage work. Contact: 96395770

Sharing accommodation available: Bedroom with attached bathroom for Indian executive bachelors.

97704794

A well running Pharmacy at prime location for immediate sale. Contact 92548672 / 99627621 / 99516236

Furnished single rooms available for Executive bachelors at Ruwi.

Contact : 93431089

Attention to wholesalers, retailers & manufacturers. We can Sell/Buy your dead stock. Contact : 99742983, 95226989

Furnished master b.room with attached bath ,and Furnished room with sharing bathroom fully equipped kitchen immediately available in N. Azaiba. 95450250

Split A/C -2, Window A/C- 25, Iron cot- 120, cupboard - 130, water cooler - 2, Gas big - 2, small-3 , Grinder-1 , Chapatti tava-1 , stove-2, kitchen equipment etc .

Contact: 99328223 Office for sale in Ruwi Chamber Oman. Contact : 94241385 / 97244766

Semi furnished two Bed room flat immediately available in N.Azaiba .Contact -95450250 Furnished room for rent Indian family near Honda road. #99076546 Room available at Walja. #96246625

Homegym with cross trainer for sale.

Contact 95367937

Sharing accommodation for family or bachelors near Indian school Ghubra. Contact : 99836676 / 99056701

Comm. & Res land in the heart of Ruwi 2400 sq mtr for sale.

Contact : 91155779

Single room attached bath S/ kitchen at Mumtaz area.

Contact: 95212017 / 96916398

Comm. & Res land in Darsait, opp.

Pakistani School, 900 sq mtr for sale.

Contact: 91155779

1 BHK available at Al khud in Baskin Robbins building. R.O.200. Contact: 97261418, 94194876, 99478492

Used Fabrication machinery for sale : Fabrication machinery and tools in excellent condition for immediate sale. Contact 94652485/ 99273774/ 99202278

Furnished room for rent for Indian family near Honda Road. contact 99016546

Comm. & res. land for investment for 25 years in Ghala heights.

Contact: 91155779 Comm. & Res land in Ghala heights 400 sq mtr for sale. Contact: 91155779 For sale land in Amerat 3000 Sq.mt with petrol pump permission.

Contact 99323957 / 92702891

ACC. AVAILABLE Fully furnished office space in As - Assalah Tower Ghobra. Contact: 98202001 Furnished room with attached bathroom separate balcony MBD area available for couple or Executive bachelor. Contact: 96275098

For buying enquiry & inspection of the vehicle, please call Mr. Hamed Al Brashdi on 92829030 on or before 3 PM of 25th Oct’ 15.

AVAILABLE Available for rent 1500 sqmt, secured plot, suitable for keeping containers, construction equipments, trailers etc, near Sohar AirportContact 98236616 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. ww.tunesoman.com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com

CLASSES IELTS & TOEFL Academic / General Target Band 8 TQT Institute.

Ph # 24480800 / 99347202

FREE INFORMATION ABOUT ISLAM. If you would like to know more about Islam, please call: 99425598, 99250777, 99353988, 99253818, 99341395, and 99379133.

For ladies: 99415818, 99321360, 99730723 Orvisit:www.islamfact.com Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam). Contact 24475280 / 95371664 / 92504980 www.siddhayur.com

SITUATION WANTBUSINESS ED

Thiya girl 27/150 B.Tech Star Chothi seeks alliance from professional B.Tech / MBA from Kannore / Malabar area. Contact: 99454129

NRI

COMPUTER

DRIVING

Looking for alliances for Hindu Thiyya Girls: (1) MBA Bangalore settled , employed 28 years, 5ft 7 inches tall.

Star - Makeriam; from well placed boy from very good family. (2) Lady Doctor 26 years MBBS, employed, preparing for MD - prefers Doctor, well settled from very good family. Only serious inquiries:95234114 / 24115829 (Call between 10am to 7pm)

Water front luxurious apartments at Marine drive Kochi, DD Samudra Darshan Apartments 1850 sq. ft INR 1.60 CR (negotiable). Common amenities include multi gym billiards, home theatre party hall etc. Contact Owners 968 - 99754109 AND 971 505194598 or email: porus2009@ gmail.com Water front luxurious apartments at Marine drive Kochi, prestige Neptune courtyard 2225 sq. ft, INR 1.80 CR (negotiable) common amenities includes 4 swimming pools multi gym party, halls, squash courts walk ways etc.

Contact Owners: 968 - 99754109 & 971 - 505194598 or Email: porus2009@gmail.com

Private room with toilet near Qurum park incl. W& E, monthly RO 220/-.

Contact Hassan 99349990

3BHK+Puja Room, East Facing, 1549 Sq Ft, Independent Floor, Ansal Palam Vihar, Gurgaon, Contact:99381769

Accommodation available for indian executive bachelor’s (no kitchen).RO:125 including water and electricitycontact 98145825, 98949724

Architect designed 5000 Square feet exquisite Villa in 16 cents of land at a scenic location on Aakkulam Road, Ulloor, Trivandrum for sale. Contact +968 95372011

MATRIMONIAL

Looking for alliance from Tamil Muslim grooms for working girl 28 years 5 FT. Wheatish Contact: 93263185 Email: mrtgifts@gmail.com

Shafik Miah Mohammad has lost Bangladeshi Passport No. AA 9253609. Finder please handover to ROP.

Studio flat MBD Ruwi.contact 95698714

Flat for rent available in CBD near Costa Coffee. Mobile no.92820734

Genuine Ayurvedic treatments & massage, Ayurvedic clinic at Al Khuwair. Contact: 24478618 / 97263637 / 93309131

LOST

Sharing accommodation available at Darsait near ISD specious room, bath, passage sharing kitchen. Preference Vegetarian. Contact: 99419390

Room for Rent Alkhuwair - Behind Al Aktham Restaurant. 120 RO. With elec. and water.For executive bachelors only. Contact : 98803261

GOOD NEWS

NOTICE Company Announces Abu Sultan Caspian Trading (Recommendation) restricted to the Department of Trade and Industry South Eastern province under the number (1103082) It’s in the process of modifying its name to the commercial / projects Zia Eye of Commerce (Recommendation). And all of his objection to that he has to submit the reasons for his objection to the Department of Commerce and Industry of the southern province of Sharqiya.

Malayalee boy-36-Manager in MNC seeks alliance-0091 7639622079 Seeking alliance for our son from Muslim families. Interested families Contact: 99889590

FOR LADIES GOOD OFFER for ladies: (Golden facial Golden bleach, Haircut-10 RO. Only) this offer started from 10th October to 10th November. #99619409, Hattat Modern Parlour

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T U E S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classiďŹ eds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT WANTED URGENTLY FOR INDIAN SCHOOL IBRI â&#x20AC;&#x153;Teachers to teach English. QualiďŹ ed Candidates with minimum two years of teaching experience may send in their C.V immediately to The Principal, Indian School Ibri, P.O Box: 160, Postal Code : 511, Ibri. or e-mail : ibriindianschool@gmail.comâ&#x20AC;?

NB:- This is a free recruitment with no fee of any kind payable by the candidate to anyone.

ACCOUNTANT Wanted Accountant in ďŹ nance department of trading company. CA with 4 years local experience. All accounting, ďŹ nalization and reporting, Age below 30 years driving license and NOC must. Contact: 99332547 Urgently Required: Accountant cum Store Keeper- with 3 years experience in building construction, MUST have NOC and immediately join.

Apply, fax 00968â&#x20AC;&#x201C;24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com.

Required Accountant present in Oman. Not for candidates on visit.

Contact: 99454425 Wanted Accountant.

Contact: 94007259 Email: smylackal@gmail.com Required ACCOUNTS OFFICER to ensure accurate processing of revenue data into ERP systems and invoicing module. Posting of invoices to customer SAP portal and delivery to customer offices and interface with Country Manager / Reporting to Regional CFO. QualiďŹ cations : BSc Accounting. Relevant experience and knowledge on Online Accounting Systems especially the customer SAP system. SUBMIT CV to : me-job@interwell.com

CATERING A ďŹ berglass products manifesting company required experienced South Indian Cook. Interested candidates. Please email CV to alhosnif@gmail.com or call on 99871101

DOMESTIC HELP Wanted full time maid for Indian family. Visa provided. Contact : 97448484 / 95539842

DRIVER Urgently required one experienced House Driver to work in capital area.

Contact: 93888666 / 24493666 / 99228454 Required Driver for home. Contact 92542504 Required heavy duty driver, preferably with good experience and communication skills. Contact: 91408759 Email: hanaa.alritaj@ gmail.com Urgently requires Heavy Duty Driver with valid Oman driving license and electrical foreman (Diploma holder with 6 years over head line experience.

Fax: 24814699 , Email: info@sajgloballlc.com GSM : 93210740 Required Indian driver with Omani driving license and experience to work in house.

Contact : 96255558 Driver with Oman driving licence needed. Visa available.

Contact 94288863

DRAUGHTSMAN Domestic helper for a family in Muscat. Must be able to cook Indian food & speak Hindi. Cleaning home laundry and accompanying children.

Contact: 91396909

EDUCATION Post Graduate researcher required.

Contact 99229700 Required English Teachers (native speaker), candidates for teaching should have minimum bachelor degree and having experience not less than 3 years. Please submit your CV through email till 15th of October 2015 for more information please Contact: 24498423.

Email: info@omrantraining.com

Urgently Required Philippino sales Lady for a boutique in Muscat. Salary best available in market

Wanted urgently

+968 99250595

A well known family in Oman urgently needed an experienced Indian female part time or full time Nursing Assistant to take care of their Mother recovering from stroke.

Mail CV: tc.subi@yahoo.com

Contact 99717791 or 94084335

ENGINEER/TECH/MECH

SALES / MARKETING

Wanted Civil Engineer, graduate for building construction and maintenance company. Should have 3 years local experience handling construction projects. Age below 30 years, driving license and NOC must.

Contact: 99332547

Required Sales Executive with corrugated cartons manufacturing background. Minimum 3+ years experience. Omani D/L is a must.

Please send CV to this email: corrugatedpackagingoman@gmail. com

Urgently required Civil Engineer, Diploma holder with experience.

Contact: 95766844

Wanted outdoor salesman for electrical, hardware and sanitary items.

Should have 3 years local experience selling similar products. Age below 30 years, driving license and NOC must. Contact: 99332547

Contact:

Urgently required for a leading Company Planning engineer. Fax : 24478522, Email : gh1.careers@ gmail.com Turning or Mechanical Engineer wanted to work in workshop if interested please call: 96996884 / 98021385 / 99745330/ 95179003 Experienced construction Civil Engineer with qualiďŹ cation (attested) certiďŹ cates & with Omani driving license.

Contact: slayhawk@yahoo.com Aluminum Foreman â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with minimum 5 years experience in aluminium fabrication, MUST have NOC and immediately join. Apply, fax 00968â&#x20AC;&#x201C;24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com.

Urgently Required: Mechanical Engineer for a steel fabrication welding workshop 10 yrs exp he should know how to design drawing with auto cad estimate & quotation he must have exp to supervise job of workshop & sites.

Contact: 97130671 Required foreman for a steel welding workshop 10 yrs exp.

Contact :97130671

MEDICAL New private clinic looking for GP Doctor & OBS & GYNK Doctor & staff Nurse with MOH license in Oman.

Contact: 97882811 Required lady physician with Ultra Sonography license lab technician male/female for a poly clinic in south sharqiyah region. Email: writevinnu@gmail.com Required MOH licensed Laboratory Technician for a reputed Medical center at Azaiba ready to join by 1st Jan 16. Please contact any time: 92724345 evening only: 99676812 Wanted Staff Nurses (female) with or without MOH license for a polyclinic near Sohar. Excellent salary & accommodation. Contact 99006915, email : alhinaee.clinic@yahoo.com

Job opportunity in real estate company, with experience in Real Estate Management ďŹ eld. Send CV : careers@realestatesouq.com Require sales executive with experience in hydraulic hoses, crimping and services / building materials contact@absmct.com/92830110 Required urgently for sales of building materials, PPE & related products with driving license & 4+ yrs experience in this ďŹ eld. Email CV & expected package to salesforoman@gmail.com Urgently required: Sales Executive- with 5 years experience in aluminum and sales, MUST have NOC and immediately join. Apply, fax 00968â&#x20AC;&#x201C;24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com Required Sales Executive for a leading building material manufacturer in Oman having valid Omani Driving License and 1-2 years of sales experience. NOC from the current sponsor is required.

Contact: 95646844 Sales & Marketing Executive for travel and tourism.

Contact: 92890506 A trading company in Muscat requires Sales Executive with minimum 1 yr experience & Oman driving license & welding machine / electronics / power tools technician with min. 1 year experience.

Email: jobs.trading2015@gmail.com

Senior Finance Manager, B.Com, ACA, ACMA, Indian Male with 19 years experience and 10 years in Oman. Currently employed with a reputed Manufacturing and Trading Company. NOC available. contact -97239328

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE

Fresher 24 years B.Com Graduate, Tally 7.2 & ERP-9, looking for a suitable placements in accounts. Contact: 97219505 Accountant ďŹ nance Indian male 24 years B.Com Tally ERP-9, 4 years working experience in India on visit visa seeks immediate and suitable placement. Contact: 95583953 / 96392009 Email: shafadmusthafa@ gmail.com

$ Ha!

$ A " # BeneďŹ ts: $ ! # $

$ " $ ! "

Please Contact Tel: 99105938

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE ACCOUNTANT, Indian male 28 years, 6 plus years of GCC experience, presently working in Oman as an Accountant, seeking for a suitable job position, NOC available, Contact: 95089869 E-Mail: anuchunda@gmail.com CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT, Indian male having 7 years experience as functional ďŹ nance head, presently working in Muscat as Asst. Finance Manager seeking for a suitable position. NOC available, #9178 9950 / Email: igneshmlazar@gmail.com Accounts ďŹ nance Indian male 22 years B.Com Tally ERP-9, 2 years working experience in India on visit visa seeks suitable placement. Contact: 95636987 / 94280567 Email: nihadniha777@gmail.com Male accountant BSc Hons (Finance & Accounts) having 2 years experience in accounts, looking for suitable job on visit visa. Contact: 91420128 Accountant Indian male 6 years experience in Oman having driving license & NOC. Contact: 96012973 Indian male Accountant looking for a suitable placement in Salalah.

More than 20 years experience in accounting job (upto the ďŹ nalization of accounts), 8 years working experience in Middle East in Dubai, Salalah.

Contact: 91325029 Sr. Accountant M.Com (ďŹ nance) 15 years experience (2 years in Oman) with a reputed ďŹ rm, NOC available.

Contact: 92404608 Email: jin_75@rediffmail.com Accountant Indian male Charted Accountant and bachelor in Commerce having 3.5 years experience in Auditing presently in Muscat and seeking for suitable position.

Contact: 91656202 Email: sanoopvarghese90@gmail.com ACCA member / B.Com looking for Accountants / auditing or relevant job on visit visa. Contact: 97769145

Having 14 yrs exp in accounts & ďŹ nance, looking for senior jobs in accounts. NOC available. Contact : 99800982 / 94413946

Required experienced Sales / Marketing Executives having light license. Send your CV ocean@omantel.net.om

House Nurse

SITUATION WANTED

Wanted Sales man (experienced in transporting etc). contact 94007259 Email: smylackal@gmail.com

Immediate Opening for laboratory technician. Should have MOH license to work in medical centre in capital area. Excellent Package, Accomodation will be offered.

Contact 99340135

Sales man with 3- 5 years experience with driving license to work in insurance brokerage in Oman.

Contact: 93544244

Email : albalushi@hotmail.co.uk, mutrahhotel@googlemail.com Or Call: 96668830 / 24790951 / 24790952

Accountant cum Sales Executive Indian male 29 yrs, 6 years experience in Oman presently on visit visa, Oman D/L, NOC available.

Contact: 95273713, Email: binadam399@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED ED

Required Sales executive & Graphic Designer Omani with experience for Advertisement company. Submit CV to choice.ap@gmail.com Contact: 97982427 or 97982406

Star Hotel looking for a well experienced Indian Chef / South Indian with minimum 3 yrs experience.

Sales Co-Ordinator Required Urgently â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Any Graduate with 1-2 years experience in DTP work with good knowledge of MS Office and Internet, Age: 21-28 years can apply to careers@teejanequipment.com

Medical care center, Multispecialty clinic, Seeb requires General Practitioner, medical lab technician & pharmacist. Mail CV to sarita_h23@yahoo.com or Call - 97884856

SALES / MARKETING

Situation Vacant

Required Urgently

Male, 27 years work experience 3 years lost employment Administration Manager and Finance Executive education MBA and BBA ďŹ nance C.G.P.A 3.71 Good hardworking professional. #99685330 Email: hussain_ca87@yahoo.com Accountant Indian female having 5 years exp in ďŹ nalization, audit and administration in GCC presently in Muscat seeking suitable position. Contact 97323574 Email: sreeja@236@gmail.com 10 yrs UAE experience ďŹ n. Controller looking for job change. Contact: 98006226 Accountant Indian male 10 years experience in Oman can do up to ďŹ nalization and good knowledge of Tally ERP- 9 can be joined immediately with NOC. Contact: 94134085 Email: muscatoman95@yahoo.com Sr. Accountant (ďŹ nance) 14 yrs Gulf experience in contracting & trading, valid UAE driving license (visit visa- Salalah) looking for suitable placement. Contact: 98110814

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, WITH Oman D/L & 8 yrs experience, 7 yrs Oman & 1 yr India in manufacturing, trading & contracting Cos, independently handling all accounting, ďŹ nance, banking, L/C, import, export & ďŹ nalization seeks placement, Call +968 95436710

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, with 13yrs experience, 6 yrs Oman in manufacturing, trading & contracting Cos, capable of handling all accounting, ďŹ nance, banking, L/C, import, export & ďŹ nalization seeks placement.

NOC Available. Call+968-98932752, mail:jjohnmuscat@hotmail.com

Keralite lady (2 yrs experience in Oman) required job in Accounts. Contact: 97096918

Finance Manager, 12 years experience in leading Construction and manufacturing companies (9 years in Oman) have strategic vision and proven leadership ability. B.Com, CPA- USA & modern accounting certiďŹ cate from â&#x20AC;&#x153;AUCâ&#x20AC;?. â&#x20AC;&#x153;NOCâ&#x20AC;? in hand. Contact: 97220505

Accountant, Indian female on visit visa degree: B.Com, exp 6+ years in tally ERP-9 (latest), ďŹ nalization of account, Tax, Accounting, Stock maintenance payroll etc. Contact: 91551164 / 91175456 Email: jothipriya@gmail.com 10+ yrs UAE experienced Fin. Controller looking for job change.

Contact: 98006226 Accountant with 3 yrs exp in Oman having driving license and Noc. Contact: 91307632 MBA (F&M) experience 1.3 year.

Contact: 97445488 Email: abinbabygeorge@gamil.com Part Time Accounting, Accounts Finalization, Audit Preparation, Internal Audit, Accounting System for New Companies, Contact: 96975454, email : ibfc.gcc@gmail.com Sri Lankan Male Accountant, Age 26, BBA Spl, CA Inter, Having more than 5 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Experience in accounting ďŹ eld seeking for Suitable Placement NOC Available Contact: 97250638 msmnaja@gmail.com Indian male with B.Com, MBA ďŹ nance & marketing 14 yrs exp seeking suitable placement.

Contact : 0091 8697292219, Email : rejesh.nair@gmail.com Indian male 8 years experience having B.Com and MBA ready to work in HR customer service, Admin banking & related ďŹ eld.

Contact : 97436890 / 96939803.

Email: girimub@gmail.com Indian lady, bachelor degree in Preparatory Programme (BPP) and Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), completed training course in MS Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook from KTI looking for full time / part time job opportunity in Oman.

Contact 92437568, 96795853, Email: linda_navs@yahoo.com Accountant, Indian Male, 15 Years experience (8 Years in Oman with Driving License & NOC) Seeks suitable placement, Contact 94117616, 91238272 praveen78oman@gmail.com Male, business Graduate having an experience of 10 years in the ďŹ eld of banking & ďŹ nance, administration , currently employed at EPC Contracting Company as Finance & Admin manager is looking for a suitable position, NOC available can join within 2 weeks. Contact : 93235690 Chief Accountant, 12 years of Oman experienced looking for suitable placement. Contact: 99513082 Part time accountant, senior accountant, doing all type of accounting works, up to ďŹ nalization. contact.95254864 Part time accounting works up to ďŹ nalization on monthly basis.

Contact: 96247295 Accountant Indian male 32 years B.Com 5 Plus years experience in Oman, seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 94410485 / 98008164

Indian female 28 years M.Com, Accountant having 6 years experience in Accounts, ďŹ nalization, Tally currently on visit visa.

Contact : 95595083 Email: merlinfernandes16@yahoo.in ACCA ďŹ nalist, Recent B.Com Graduate, Indian female, looking for full time employment in Accounting and Audit. +968 96964379, sangeethaumesh5@gmail.com

ADMIN Indian female MBA , 3 Years experience in Admin MIS , family Visa. Contact 98234427, jkjsmith01@gmail.com 10 years Gulf & 4 years Oman experience in HR / Admin & logistics ďŹ&#x201A;uent in Arabic / English with D/L looking for suitable position.

Contact: 95824598 A BBA degree holder Man looking For suitable job Cont.

95864575 Indian, Male having 8 years in purchase and admin furnishing / metal scrap On visit visa, available to join Immediately if selected â&#x20AC;&#x201C; contact 0096896675184 , 97704828 Urgently required for a Hotel / hotel apartments in Muscat: Receptionists (Omani) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; male / female. Contact 97677211 Indian male, HR / Admin (MBA) Executive with 3 years experience (UAE , India) seeks suitable placement ready for immediate joining. Contact: 90162412 HR/ Recruitment specialist with 8 years Oman experience in entire gamut of HR functions like resource planning, recruitment, HR policies & procedures performance appraisal, expatriate affairs, exit interviews & ticketing.

Contact 93825307 Email: jarthath@rediffmail.com Indian female graduate ďŹ&#x201A;uent in English/Arabic(work purpose) with 5+ experience in Admin, Logistics and 2 years in Insurance handling, looking for suitable opportunity. Contact 93221054, email: nurinabhavania@ymail. com

ARCHITECT Interior Designer; Post Graduate in Interior Design with Diploma in Journalism, 2 years work experience (1 year in UAE) in conceptualizing designs for residential/ commercial projects. Interested in taking up full-time, part-time or freelance projects in Oman. Contact no. 97897018 Email: nimimenon@ gmail.com

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DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED ARCHITECT Architect more than 2 years exp in design, site supervision with strong knowledge in AutoCAD, Revit , 3D Max, Photo shop and Microsoft office looking for a good job. N.O.C available.

Contact: 90162685 Email: mohamed. dakrory92@gmail.com

Indian female, 30 yrs, Interior Designer

Project/ Program Manager/ Finance professional YƵĂůŝĮ ĐĂƟ ŽŶ D WDW Ɛŝdž ƐŝŐŵĂ ;' Ϳ ŽƵŶƚƌŝĞƐ ĞdžƉŽƐƵƌĞ ĂŶĂĚĂ Θ DŝĚĚůĞ ĂƐƚ͕ /ŶĚƵƐƚƌLJ ĂŶLJ ;ĞdžƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞĚ ŝŶ bank, telecom, transport.

EĂƟ ŽŶĂůŝƚLJͲ ĂŶĂĚŝĂŶ͘ KŶ ǀŝƐŝƚ ŝŶ KŵĂŶ.

Bachelor degree with 5 yrs working experience seeking suitable placement in Oman.

Contact 98499975, Email : swasdesigner@gmail.com

Contact - 97203531

EDUCATION M. Com B. Ed Indian lady looking for suitable openings.

Contact: 97668603

HOSPITALITY

MISCELLANEOUS BA Export Management, GCC, D/L 12 years Muscat experienced in purchase / commercial seeks any placement. Contact: 99775988 Omani National looking for suitable placement. Contact: 91908052

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. DRAUGHTSMAN Architectural & Structural Draughtsman 5 years experience.

Contact: 97312627 Draughtsman Civil with AutoCAD. Contact 97105408

Indian female 25 years B.Tech (Electrical) having 4 years experience in tendering, estimation and costing seeking suitable placement currently on family visa. Contact: 97228117

Autocad D/man Exp in Arch , Interior , knows 3D, Photoshop Ph : 93837973

Civil Engineer, Indian male, 11 years experience in construction, having D/L and NOC. Contact: 94194399 Email: shiblyrock@gmail.com

Indian male 28 yrs, Master degree in Computer Application and CCNA certified, 2 years exp in Oman looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 93295112 Email: syedsadathali.mca@gmail.com

B.E Mechanical Engineer Indian male 27 years having 4 years experience including 2 years GCC experience, seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 90156984 Email: noorullahanas@gmial.com

DOMESTIC HELP Indian House maid looking for job.

Contact: 91834383

M.Tech (Electronics) Indian lady (on visit), 5 years teaching experience in engineering colleges also running entrance coaching centre for 8 years is looking for a better placement in colleges, schools & office etc. Contact: 93596002

DESIGNER Interior designer, advanced diploma interior, 3dmax maya coreldraw, photoshop. Contact : 93837973

Indian male 23 years, B.Tech Electrical Engineer 2 years experience in construction + Auto Cad designing, is looking for suitable job. Currently on visiting visa. Contact: 98266897 Email: elbinkeldhose92@gmail.com

DRIVER Indian driver, 4 years experience in Oman with car looking for suitable job (NOC available). Contact: 93053917 Light duty driver looking for job, 2 yrs exp. Contact : 96342684 Driver seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 98134080 Pakistani, light driver looking for job exp, 4 years. Contact: 96346582 20 years experience. Contact: 94795033 Indian Driver need job. conrtact 91254539 Light driver looking for job.

Contact: 96942547 Light driver looking job exp. 4 years. Contact: 94208089 20 years experience Driver D/L in Oman, seeks suitable job.

Contact : 99775728 Light driver for job 5 yrs exp.

Contact: 92171166 Bangladeshi male driver, 48 yrs, exp 14 years, 9 years need job & visa, got release letter. Contact: 99165961 Pakistani driver seeks for job, holding license of Oman exp in driving in Oman 6 years. Contact : 92604918 Indian driver 13 yrs exp. looking for fulltime or part time jobs. contact 91103909 Pakistani male light vehicle driver looking for job. Contact: 96474528

Indian B. tech Civil, 19 years exp , seeks suitable position.

Contact: 98365910 Email: kks.pkd1969@gmail.com Omani Mechanical Engineer with 2years Experiences looking for new opportunity . Contact:95993315, alrus7idisaif@gmail.com Electrical Engineer, B.Tech, with 8 years GCC experience (5 years in Oman) in MEP & Oil/gas construction/Inspections side with NOC, is seeking new assignments in Oman.

Has attested degree certificate and Oman D/L. Contact No.96083636, Email:tobineasow@gmail.com Indian male, Mechanical Engineer having 1Year experience, on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact:97416564, Email:jovinmathias@gmail.com Qualified Engineer with 3-5 yrs exp in purchase, 2.2 yrs in automotive service, excellent communication, presentation and management skills.

PH: 968 91306841; Email: shanyphilip23@gmail.com Indian male B.Tech Mechanical Eng (2 years exp in India) fire safety seeking suitable placement. Contact: 93523752 Telecom Engineer Indian male 27 years, Telecom field Engineer experienced in vsati microwave 1.3 years of experience. Email: rogin.mk@ gmail.com Contact: 95216362 Electronics diploma 1 year exp in telecommunication, mobile tower field support Engg. Vishnu Madhu Soodanan. Contact: 94519571 / 95233636 Email: vishnumadhull@ gmail.com

Driver with car. Contact :91452930

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Jordanian Engineer in MECHANICAL & MANUFACTURING Good experience Sheet Metal Fabrication, AutoCad, Solidworks 3D, Storage Tanks & Silos, Sales - Speaking Arabic/English/Russian -GSM#90198575 / 99201710 Indian Mechanical Engineer, 30, having 8yrs of UAE Sales/Business Development. experience in Electromechanical and Irrigation sectors. Contact no- +971558763220 email id-sangowri@outlook.com Electrical Engineer (B.E) with 5 years experience (3 yrs in Gulf) NOC available. Contact: 92119851 Email: mayurdevadiga@gmail.com Resident Engineer B.E civil 25 years exp 12 yrs in Architecture consultancy having Oman Dubai D/L NOC available. Contact: 95732453 Email: milindj951@gmail.com Indian male, 23 yrs, post Graduate Mechanical Engineer M.SU (U.K) 1 year Sales exp. having Oman D/L seeking for suitable employment in reputed firm. Contact: 91419764 Email: z.enggoman@gmail.com Female Electrical power system Engineer with experience seeks suitable placement. Contact: 99842083

BSc. in Civil Engineer 12 years experience in infrastructure & building having UAE D/L currently on visit visa looking suitable placement.

Contact 91206763 Email: delwar. civil.97@gmail.com Diploma in Civil Engineer, have total 4.5 years experience & have 1.5 years experience in Oman. Contact: 96535084 Road and Construction Engineer exp 5 years in Oman. #97646908 Mechanical Engineer (Indian male) with experience in HVAC & Fire fighting looking for suitable placement in electro mechanical field.

Contact: 90154793 Email: sangu.vazhoor@gmail.com BE Mechanical Engineer, 23 years, Indian male on visit available for immediate placement please contact: 96145820 or arunsankar.10.92@ gmail.com B.Tech Engineer (Civil), having 14 yrs of experience (6 years in Oman) with valid driving license is seeking for a suitable placement. NOC available. email: masum.civil10@gmail. com GSM:97455456 Civil Engineer B.Sc 5 years experience with building construction companies in Oman seek suitable placement. Contact: 98180524

Electrical Instrument Engineer having 10 years experience in high voltage and low voltage with extensive experience in instrumentation & automation, approved from PAEW for more info. Contact: 92950788 / Email: engtariq2007@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer with 7 years experience in oil & gas field have extensive experience in QA/ QC (Static equipment) , have API 653 & CSWIP3.1 certifications for more info: khaled19858@gmail.com Contact: 91917294 Civil Engineer 5 years experience with construction companies in Oman having valid driving license seek suitable placement. Contact: 99742280 Mechanical Technician oil & gas with 9 yrs experience in GCC worked in rotating EQP, Static EQP, commissioning and troubleshooting looking for an opening. Contact: 99598462 Email: bakash_85@yahoo.co.in Mechanical Engineer, Indian male 22 years seeking job in a reputed firm in Oman. ASNT- NOT level 2 course completed 2 years experience in India. Available in Oman on visit visa until 06/11/2015. Contact: 95393960 / 95037962 Diploma Civil Engineer 11 yrs experience (9 yrs building construction + 2 yrs O&G) with valid Oman D/L seeking suitable placement. Contact: 97669006 / 99142744 Email: shafique88am@gmail.com A senior professional with Engineering background is available for Executive lead in Contract Management, Coordination, Execution in construction establishments and consultancies. Contact: 99703972 Experienced Civil Engg professional 12/26 years ran a company as Working partner have estimation, tendering of high rise building infrastructure steels conc. Products seeks suitable placement. #95360102 / 94460357 Civil Structural Engineer professional in R.C structural design & Q.S & shop drawings. C.N (97983610) Civil Structural Engineer professional in R.C Structural design & Q.S & shop drawings. C.N (97983610) Project Engineer (Electrical) 5 years experience in Oman primary substations + OHL, oil & gas, AutoCAD design driving license. NOC available.

Contact: 93210528 / 99410588 B.Tech Software Engineer nearly 2 yrs Engineer nearly 2 yrs experience seeking job in Oman, currently on visit visa. Contact: 95184451 Indian B.E Electronics Communication Engineer available in Muscat on visit visa 3+ years experience in automation system. Contact: 97439738 Civil Engineer with 8 yrs exp in construction field & all related work, having Oman driving license & NOC. Contact: 97613084 4 years experience Electrical Engineer electrical primary substations UG cables and OHL, fluent in English and Arabic. Contact: 91204243 Electrical Engineer 4 years experience oil and gas electrical substation water project fluent in Arabic and English primavera p6 operator.

Contact: 99525856 M.Tech having 3 years experience in Mechanical Engineering department looking for any University to hire.

Contact: 90150913 Email: rahmanmechengg@yahoo.in B.Tech Mechanical Engineer with MBA in marketing & HR 3 yrs exp seeking suitable placement. #0091 9846568080 / 0091 4772702080, Email: jbabu4@gmail.com Civil Engineer, Indian male 29, having 7 years exp in construction field& Auto Cad in Oman. Having valid driving license. Fluent in English & Arabic. Looking for suitable job in reputed firm. Contact - 99650569 Indian male, 26 yrs, B. Tech Computer Science, 4 years experience as System and Network Engineer looking for suitable job. #93125669 Email: amritrajgt18@gmail.com

Electrical Engineer Indian male 2.5Years Of experience Looking for suitable Job. Contact:91845173 Email:er.joshidhaval@gmail.com B.Sc Civil 9 years experience looking for suitable placement as a Residence Engineer having valid Omani D/L. Contact : 94431917 Email: gmssohel.ce@gmail.com Bangladeshi female Project Engineer Civil having 5 years experience or construction site currently or visit visa looking a suitable position. Contact 91207329 Email: dipabangladesh@yahoo.com Male Project Engineer (Civil) 12 years experience Dubai + SA in construction & water supply field with valid UAE D/L Currently on visit visa looking suitable position.

Contact: 91206763 Email: delwar.civil.97@gmail.com Indian male, 26 yrs, 4 years experience diploma in Civil Engineering field on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact: 95585564 Email: safvanullal6644@gmail.com Civil Engineer B.Sc -6 years experience with constructions companies - 1 years in Oman - qualified as Site Engineer & Planning Engineer.

Contact+968-94682217 Degree Civil Engg total 9 yrs experience, 7 yrs in Oman Construction Company with valid Oman driving license. Contact: 99721926 Email: tanvircivil@gmail.com Civil Engineer degree, diploma, Staad pro, Auto CAD 18 months Indian exp seeks suitable opportunity.

Contact: 93682529 Aeronautical Engineer Indian female 22 yrs, currently on family visa looking for suitable position in any air line / Engineering Industry.

Contact: 91705598 Email: nikhimnoushad@gmail.com Engineer with 4 years Telecom experience in Oman, having Oman driving license looking for a suitable opportunity. Interested in marketing, NOC available. Contact : 98513495 SUPERVISOR: Indian male site supervisor (AIR CONDITIONING) 25 years of experience with valid Oman Driving lic Contact: 97498809, 93391910 Email: hilariankj@gmail.com Engineer with 3 yrs experience in Indian in MEP, HVAC& mechanical maintained field on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact 99191535 Email: fareed029@gmail.com Electrical Engineer Indian male 29 years, having 5 years of experience in industrial automation and utility maintenance in India (MRF Tyres), seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 92789995 Email: akhilabrahamlktr@gmail.com Btech computer science graduate 2015 passout.. Android application marketing.. Having good communication skills and mindset to work in a team. Contact 91024385 B.Tech Elec., Engineer, 8 yrs exp in Oman valid D/L. Contact : 91456023 Indian BE (MECH) aviation BE degree diploma in material quality management 17 years Navy aviation 13 years construction purchase stores professional on visit.

Contact: 90205082 /98796982 Electrical Eng. Degree (MEP) need suitable job of construction 12 yrs exp.

Email: mohd.ateeq.khan@gmail.com C-SWIP 3.1 ASNT level 2 QC Mech.

Engr 5+ yrs exp Indian male 26 seeks suitable placement.

Contact : 91823331 Email: kannasekhar46@gmail.com Electrical and Electronics Engineer with one year experience and GCC licence holder seeking a job mail – shyjalpk@gmail.com Indian male BE Mechanical currently on 2 yrs free visa with NOC & local release. Looking for suitable job in Muscat.

Contact – 90296975 / ali.syedausaf@gmail.com

B.F hotels management 2 years exp food and beverages service, kitchen, 4 languages, N.O.C available. Contact: 95196212 Email: mido.hossams09@yahoo.com Hotel exp 4 years F+ B (service) visit visa experience 13/11/2015, B.A Hotel Management. Contact: 91987013 / 96971643 Email: shirekls34@gmail. com

IT Indian male (22) Java /J2EE specialization with BCA Graduate having 6 months experience in web application development / IT technical support, looking for suitable job.

Contact: 00968 96292480 Email: farzeenfarook@gmail.com IT Telecom / Networking Engineer with CCNA & CCNP, 3 yrs experience, currently in visit visa. Contac: 97435944 Email: abdulsameerr@ gmail.com

Maintenance foreman looking for suitable position in real estate or MEP work. Contact : 99526958 Indian female Diploma in Indian & foreign Accounting having 1 year experience in Oman seeking suitable placement. Contact: 95714285

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR Indian 14 years experience in consumer goods as Marketing Manager with visa D/L. Contact: 90314809 Indian HSE Manager, Grad IOSH & I Dip Nebosh aged 43 years with more than 20 years of experience working in reputed oil & Gas / construction at Oman seeking suitable HSE Position (Manager / Trainer / Advisor). NOC available. Contact: 97926801 Email: johnkjoseph630@yahoo.com Manager- Media & Advertising industry-15 yrs Gulf exp - seeks suitable opening- 93031168

Computer and Systems Engineer.

Contact: 91770668

PROJECTS Indian male B.Eng in IT CCNA MCITP, 2+ yrs exp in IT support, Networking and Server support. Contact 93311963 Email: sajal035@gmail. com Male 25 years B.E (CSE) 3.5 years experience in System and Networking / IT support currently in visit visa looking for a suitable job. Contact: +968-98914760 IT System Administrator MCSA Sudanese UAE experience.

Contact: 91302074 B.Tech prince 2 certified IT Proff. with 16+ yrs experience, 8 years experience in banking IT projects and risk management, support vendor management looking for a suitable position on visit visa. Contact: 92703635, email : anilsingh@live.in Software Developer / Consultant Manager 7+ yrs Experience Mobile 92694166 Indian male 28 yrs, Master degree in Computer Application and CCNA certified, 2 years exp in Oman looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 93295112 Email: syedsadathali.mca@gmail.com

Civil Engineer, Indian male, 25 years, B.Tech, have 3 years experience in building construction seeks suitable positions. 92609893, alenalexander123@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING Indian female 2+ years Oman experience with D/L seeks suitable position in Business development / corporate & retail sales in training / IT / education ITES companies.

Contact: 98989784 Indian Male 22 years B. Com Graduate currently in Oman on family visa looking for a job, preferably in sales department. Also possess a valid Oman driving license.#98504698 Indian male 10+years of Gulf experience as a Sales Executive in FMCG Industry with valid GCC license.

Contact: 93512696 Indian male, 26 M.A., 2 yrs experience in India and 11 months in Oman looking for job in sales or accounts.

Contact: 97022508 Email: zakariyazba@gmail.com

Computer & Network Engineering.

11 yrs experience looking for suitable job. Contact 92811179/ 95882614 Email: khalido24@yahoo. com

Having 5 years exp, as office coordinator, NOC available. Contact: 92889617

LOGISTICS

Indian male, 38 years BE & MBA in Marketing from UK and 12 years experience in the IT industry seeks suitable placement. Contact: 91200413 Email: mniyaz@hotmail.com

10 yrs exp in Oman in logisticshave Oman D/L-looking for suitable placement-contact 96410767, email: harishkts@yahoo.com

MEDICAL Indian female MDS Endodontics, 9.5 yrs experience recently cleared Oman prometric 84% looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 95624156 / 97233074 MSc Nurse specialized in OBG, 3 years experience-certified ACLS, BLS, on visit visa, seeking suitable opportunities Contact: 90125347 Indian female Dentist (BDS) 3 Yrs Exp ,PROMETRIC Passed, Presently in Visit visa looking for placement. Contact-24286098, 99284260 Indian female, Ayurvedic doctor (BAMS) with 7 years experience looking for job: Now on family visa, Contact: 94051242; Email: anilnath2000@gmail.com Palestinian dentist looking for job in private hospitals, Medical Center or Dental Centers in Muscat 15 yrs exp P. hospitals out Muscat. Contact: 96951750

Indian male 38 yrs , MBA in Marketing with Oman D/License, over 8 yrs experience in ironmongery scheduler / specifier & general trading, currently on visit visa. NOC available. Contact: 98891737 BBA Keralite, male, 23 yrs, experienced in Automotive Sales & Admin on visit. Contact 94742679, Email: jafarj4@gmail.com Indian male, 4 years experience in Sales. Oman experience with NOC & driving license seeking suitable.

Contact: 96607645 Indian male, 31, MBA Marketing and Finance with 8 years’ experience in FMCG industry specialized in sales, trade marketing and key accounts as manager seeks suitable position. Contact 94743589 Indian male, U.K Post Graduate M.A, MBA, 3 years Experience, looking position within Marketing, Branding, Business Development & PR. Contact: 91-8939165131 Email: greetings111@hotmail.com MBA qualified sales and marketing candidate having an experience of 1 and half years available in Oman on visit visa seeks placement.

Contact: 97436706 Email: anshusamue10001@gmail.com

Indian female Bsc nurse with 3year experience prometric passed seeks suitable placement. contact 95782544

Indian male 21+ years Managerial experience in Oman in FMCG Industry seeking suitable placement with NOC can head any Business / working partner. Contact: 95264562

Indian male Nurse, prometric passed seeks suitable placement.

Contact 97284508I

Experienced skilled candidate with driving license seeks position sales in Salalah. Contact: 98579382

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T U E S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SIT.WANTED SALES / MARKETING Sales Executive experience in Oman 4 years, has driving license. Contact: 96039024 Marketing and Sales candidate with 8 years experience in GCC looking for suitable position. Having NOC and valid Oman diving license. Contact: 96669152 Indian male more than 8 years experience in UAE in Office , Sales Marketing with good computer skills having driving license looking for suitable placement. Contact: 99369081 Email: shazulashraf60@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Indian Male, 26 Yrs, Business Management, 6 years in Oman.

Knowledge of MS Office and Arabic Language. Seeks suitable position.

Contact 93931935 Indian Mechanical Engineer, 30, having 8yrs of UAE Sales/Business Development. experience in Electromechanical and Irrigation sectors. Contact no- +971558763220 email id-sangowri@outlook.com

Male BS, with D/L having 7 years exp in Oman wanted suitable job in Sales inventory & procure. #92191026

Indian male, with finance and Law degree, having more than 25 years of experience in Finance/ Accounts / Audit (5 years of Oman experience) seeks suitable placement. NOC available. Contact: 98421619.

E-mail: talemadhamu@yahoo.com.

Sales and marketing - male 27 yrs, 2 years experience seeking suitable placement with Oman D/L. Contact: 95642740 Email: shaijichakkara@gmail.com

Indian male Executive Secretary having vast experience in admin, logistics & procurement well versed with computer seeks suitable placement. Contact : 99514286

Indian male Sr. Sales Executive, 15 years exp in retail sector looking for vacancies. Contact: 96768382

Pakistan Male: 24 years,M.Com Finance having 2.5 year experience as a accountant & marketing executive looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 97670816, E.mail: naeem.ahsan68@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Indian male having 7 Years of Experience in Oman Having Valid Driving License working as a Office Driver ,Looking for a suitable Position, NOC Available. Contact: 99680429, Email:anzarkutty1975@gmail.com Syrian architect have years and half experience in oman looking for work, full time perfect in architectural programs 3d max , auto cad , Photoshop , and sketch up. for contact : 0096897482871 Female, Indian, 35 years, Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharm) fresh graduate with BSc looking for positions in Front Office, administration office, or any suitable positions in hospital, polyclinic, companies or Institutions.

Contact 90236481.

Indian Male 47 years MBA-Operations Management with total 25 Yrs exp inclusive of 9 yrs in Oil & Gas sector in Oman, having valid Omani D/L & NOC, seek challenging position in SCM/Logistics/Procurement.

GSM-94236414. Mail id – dialindia33@gmail.com Well experienced management finance specialist having 18 years experience available for placement.

Contact.95602518 23, Male, ACCA Affiliate, OBU Bsc, 2.5 years of experience in audit and finance in Big 6 Firms, Looking for permanent placement in similar field. Release NOC available. Contact: #95140445, a.saran891@gmail.com 22, Male, Indian, BBA (Marketing), 1 year experience in India, Looking for suitable placement in Sales and Marketing. #91897046, azzamsiddique1@gmail.com Indian Male,27,ACCA Part Qualified,B.COM with 7+ yrs exp in receivables and credit control in Oman looking for suitable placements. NOC available. # 9657 4343.

Indian Female, Science Graduate, 3 years Experience in Teaching back home. Looking for a suitable job opportunity as a teacher, in Schools in Muscat Region. Contact : 96431456 / 95704814 Looking for a suitable job as Jr. Accountant/ Jr. Administration in a reputed company. NOC Available.

GSM # 93004738.

ACCOUNTANT, Male, 8 years experience, presently working in Oman as a Senior Accountant with oman Driving license. NOC available, seek suitable opportunity. GSM: 97705854 Chemical Engineer Indian 2 years of experience in production field Contact: 91247222 Email:sahadpoonchola@gmail.com Syrian male 3yrs. exp in IT support, Networking, Security systems, Server support, IT sales and marketing.

Valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement. Contact 91033395 Civil Autocad Draughtsman part time work for job mob : 96023726 Indian female, MBA, 25yrs Having 4yrears of experience in MNC, hands of experiences in recruitment and administration, flexible for any suitable job placements currently in visting visa. Contact Tel : 98864639 Email : neethuvijayan06@gmail.com Indian Male, 25, Chartered Accountant, working with ICICI Bank India.

On a Visit Visa in Oman. Staying with parents at Azaiba. Ph: 24492638.

Email: shyamal008@gmail.com

ACCOUNTANT: Indian male 25 having 4 years experience in accounting & having well knowledge in tally.

Contact:968094535881, 0091 9037622048, Email: vishnuraj889@gmail.com SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, 8 years experience ,Oman driving licence,Noc available. Seek Suitable opportunity.

GSM- 98184170 Senior Accountant. 8 Years experience. NOC available. Oman driving license. Seek suitable opportunity.

GSM- 98184170 31 year Indian male PG in HR ,with 5 yrs Professional experience in HR in Construction Oil & Gas Oman seeking for a suitable placement. Kindly contact me on 93488914, emailKaarthickshankar@gmail.com MBA Finance with more than five years of experience in Finance & Accounts including GCC, looking for a suitable opening. Having UAE driving license. #91391802.

Indian female with MBA in finance seeking immediate placement.

Contact: 968-93316493

27, male, ACCA finalist, have professional experience up to finalization of Accounts, Statutory and internal audit, expertise in using tally and focus & Oracle Software, have 3.5 years experience in accounts till finalization, seeking for permanent replacement ,GSM97654769,email idabdullah.nooralam@yahoo.com B.E Mechanical Engineer with 2 years’ experience in HVAC field on visit visa looking for suitable job.

Contact: 93442296 Email Id: sal201091@gmail.com.

MBA (F) B.COM Indian female having knowledge of accounts with Tally looking for full or part time job.

Presently on family visit visa.

Contact: - 96259171. Email: bhumicapandya@gmail.com Indian Male, MBA, Talented management expert having 6 year experience at U.A.E, India and Oman in luxury goods and Retail. Seeking suitable openings in related or same field. Contact:92700670 Email: jobcareer44@gmail.com B.Tech EEE with 4+ years experience in the field of it, networking, ex-tonics etc. presently working in Amazon India development centre as a content quality associate seeking for suitable jobs in Oman.

Contact : +91 9940514005, 93116402 email: mail2nbn@gmail.com MBA Finance with more than five years of experience in Finance & Accounts including GCC, looking for a suitable opening. Having UAE driving license. Contact no..91391802 Part- Time Accountant, well experience senior accountant ,doing all type of accounting works, Finalization, Budgeting available.

Contact 98803439 Pakistani, Male, Pak, Exp 14 Years in IT Trainer / Computer Teacher, looking for a better position in Oman, already working in Prestigious Construction Company. # 95983711.

Join.mtmali@gmail.com M. Tech VLSI design, B. tech Electronics and instrumentation, Indian female,3 years teaching experience for graduation level students, seeking suitable placements .

Ph:00968 92904155. email-achusooraj@gmail.com

SIT.WANTED MISCELLANEOUS

Sudanese/26/Bsc Computer Science /3 years exp/skills Excellent knowledge in operating systems and maintaining computers Java Programmer Web Developer Linux SMS solutions Android developer/ email khalid.omx@gmail.com/ # 944958080 and 99758186.

Indian male B.Eng. in IT,CCNA, MCSA,MCSE, 2.5 yrs + exp. in IT support, networking and server support valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/Server support. Contact 92607532 Indian B.E Computer Science graduate 2012 passout. 1 .5 yrs exp. in Accounting. Having good communication skills and mindset to work in a team. Having NIIT certificate in Diploma in Java Technology. # 97767894 Email: jinsonjacobjohn@gmail.com Indian male 24 YEARS, B.Tech (Electrical & Electronics), having 2 yrs. exp as Electrical Site Engineer. Done IOSH & NEBOSH- IGC certifications, seeking for suitable placement in any related industries. Contact 98045482, Email: mastanshaik1008@gmail.com Indian male, 24 years, HSE Engineer having 2 years of Indian experience.

Done IOSH & NEBOSH- IGC certifications, seeking for suitable placement in any related industries.

Contact 98045482 Indian male 22yr BBA with LOGISTIC Diploma, exp in tally and data entry seeking in suitable placement.

Contact; 90151739 email shakeeb.mp280gmail.com Indian Male (Diploma in electronics Engineering and CCNA.) having 9 years of experience in Networking, 5 years’ experience in Oman. Looking for a suitable Placement. NOC available. GSM- 93787098, Email –anishktr@gmail.com Mechanical Draftsman, Indian male 27, Diploma in Mechanical Engineering having 7 years of experience in Auto CAD looking for a suitable placement.#97351786 / 96143708 mohammednazeer07@gmail.com ACCA Affiliate, OBU Degree, 2.5 years experience in audit and finance in Big6 firm, Looking for permanent placement. NOC release available. Contact: #95140445, a.saran891@gmail.com

Indian 26M, B. Tech Computer Science graduate, 3 years exp in India, looking for suitable job in Muscat.

Contact : 93125669, Email : amritrajGT18@gmail.com Sudanese/Bsc IT/26/2 years experience/excellent Eng-Arb speaking/ Omani driving license/96387227/ henrykarrar@gmail.com MBA - (F), M.Com, B.COM. Indian female having knowledge of accounts with Tally looking for part time or full time job. Presently on family visa. contact 91892264. mail: yv.dixit@ yahoo.com Admin, having 10+ years experience in Admin/HR/Logistics/Time Keeper, in reputed companies. Presently working in Muscat. Contact94369965mail - satya1528@gmail.com Two year experience in Oman, experience in sales, purchase and system admin, Having GCC license.

Contact number 97475860, Yadhukrishnan08@gmail.com Indian male B.Eng. in IT,CCNA,MCSA,MCSE, 2.5 yrs + exp. in IT support, Networking and Server support with valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/ Server support. contact 92607532 Indian Female BSC nurse with 8+ years of experience including 3 years of GCC exp. Oman Prometric passed with 57 %. Currently in Oman. Contact : 98034384 Indian male Accountant, 12 years experience, looking for a full time or part time job, experience in tally also. Contact 98983122 Site Supervisor/ L Driver, Pakistani Male 33 with valid D/L, 4 years experience in Muscat, fluent in English, Arabic looking for suitable place. Contact: 97950869 Indian Male, 25, Chartered Accountant, working with ICICI Bank India. On a Visit Visa in Oman.

Staying with parents at Azaibah.

Ph:24492638.

Email: shyamal008@gmail.com India male 33 years. DCT, BBA, OSHA, looking for Job in Construction HSE, 11 Years experience with GCC license, NOC available Contact :- 9418 4280

Filipino Senior Architect with 13 years GCC experience. Proficient in 3D StudioMax, AutoCAD, Revit, Phostoshop, and Microsoft Office.

With NOC and Omani driving license. Please contact 91292933.

Indian male BE Electrical & Electronics and PG in power systems (transmission & distribution) on visit seeking placement.

Contact 94669679 E Mail : prsabarish@gmail.com

Indian female, 40 yrs, 7 yrs experience in customer service, with D/L seeks suitable placement.

Contact 95580711

Indian Female, MBA-HR having 8+ experience in Administration/HR, Customer Support, Office Coordinator with good Computer skill, Now on Visit Visa looking for suitable position. Contact: 90196235

ME Civil- structural Engineer, 8 Years Structural Engineer experience, Looking for Structural Designer, supervisor or site engineer Position. Iranian male.

Contact: 93696929 Email: mhsaz1359@gmail.com

Female, 35years, Bachelor of Pharmacy fresh graduate with BSc and MA looking for suitable position in hospital, polyclinic, companies or Institutions. Contact 90236481.

Indian Male 23 years B.Tech Civil Engineering having 2 years experience in quantity survey and site management looking for suitable placement. Contact- 95042656

Electrical Maintenance Engineer, 29, Indian Male, having 7+ years exp. in reputed companies. Seeking suitable placement in Oman. #- 98440637.

Mail ID : venkatbadri23@gmail.com

Indian female, MBA, 25yrs Having 4yrears of experience in MNC, hands of experiences in recruitment and administration, flexible for any suitable job placements currently in visting visa. Contact: 98864639 Email : neethuvijayan06@gmail. com

Administration - Having 9+ years exp. in Admin & HR in reputed companies. Presently working in Muscat and seeking for suitable placement.

Contact No.: 97693456. email : muralimahdav77@gmail.com

Indian Male -25years B.Tech Engineer seeking any suitable jobs in Oman ,currently on visit visa.

Contact : Haneesh N. Surendran, Mob : 90126573, Email: - haneeshns02@gmail.com SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, 8 years experience, Oman driving license, Noc available seeks suitable opportunity. GSM- 97705854 Female Junior Architect, Excellence in Autocad, Sketching & Modelling, Internship - KHAM Designs, Bangalore. Presently with Atulya Architects & Associates. Email saatvika.frozenmusic@gmail.com Contact 00968-94057427.

Electronics System Eng. UK Graduate. Indian Female with relevant work experience. Eng. Analysis, Instrumentation and Control, Power & Heat, Electrical & Fluid, Drives & Actuators etc. Looking for an entry level position. Email s.dinesh1508@gmail.com.

Mobile: 97848075, +91-8105413827

Indian male 24 B.Tech IT(engineer) 2.5 years exp in hardware networking, programming such as C and C++.

Currently on visit visa seeks suitable placement. Contact 95153693 Indian male Auto Cad Draughtsman (civil) 8 years experience seeking for part time job.

Contact : 00968 99070584, Email: remluvp@gmail.com Indian male having 25 years exp in telecom optical fiber cables, network CCTV Administration office automation seeks job, now in visit visa.

Contact: 91385373 Email: sridharbsnlma1455@gmail.com Indian male 32 M. A. English and having 4 years of experience in teaching current company is ready to issue release letter.

Contact : 99869535 Email: sahadkeyi33@gmail.com Sudanese male, 31 years, have 3 year Diploma in electrical engineer , 6 year experience in construction and electrical production plant .

Mobile No ; +96894549609

Indian male 37 years B.Tech Graduate having 12 years experience of Electrical DCRP Works / Jobs in Oman with driving license looking for suitable opening. NOC available can join immediately. Contact : saiviharvasanth@gmail.com Bangladeshi, looking job for sales man having 3-4 years experience in readymade garments.

Contact : 97756028 Indian female B.ARCH with 10 years experience (Indian & Oman) as an Architect is seeking a suitable in Muscat. Contact: 92412810 BE Civil Engineer with 11 years of experience in building construction with valid Oman DL, looking for suitable placement, NOC available.

Please contact 91329910.

Indian male 24 B.Tech IT (engineer) 2.5 years exp in hardware networking, programming such as C and C++.

Currently on visit visa seeks suitable placement. Contact 95153693 Indian male 23yrs, 2yrs exp. In Accounts (india). Seeking suitable position in accounts. Currently on express visa. M: 94399509, E. midhunaloor16@gmail.com Indian Male: 31yrs 8 Years Experience in the field of Business Development/ Sales/ Retail/ Logistics with good communication Skills seeking for suitable job in Oman . Now available in Visit visa valid till (21st Oct).

Contact; 99052340 , email: pradee.ys@gmail.com ACCOUNTANT , Indian male 30 years B.Com Having 7 years of Oman experience in the field of accounts & finance seeks for better placement.

Contact : 96143708 / 97351786 ME Civil- structural Engineer, 8 Years Structural engineer experience, looking for Structural Designer, supervisor or site engineer Position.

Iranian male. Contact: 93696929, Email: mhsaz1359@gmail.com Civil Autocad draughtsman looking for part time job. Mobile: 95218737 ACCOUNTANT, 8 years experience, Oman D/L, Noc available seeks suitable opportunity. GSM- 98184170

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DAILY GUIDE SIT.WANTED

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

MISCELLANEOUS 27,male,ACCA finalist, have professional experience up to finalization of accounts, statutory and internal audit, expertise in using tally and focus & oracle software, have 3.5 years experience in accounts till finalization ,seeking for permanent replacement ,GSM-97654769,email id-abdullah.nooralam@yahoo.com Senior Management Professional, MBA, 12 years+ exp. in Business Development/Sales Management , Sales Training, Content Development & Six sigma GSM:97428090 Part Time Accounting Job Complete Data Entry, Upto Finalization. Any Time Available. Location Al Hail, AL Khoud. #- +968-92049215 Email:- aiafe.oman@gmail.com

SIT.WANTED SKILLED / UNSKILLED Welder 6G, 3G ARC , Fabrication gulf exp ph : 92858985

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE Indian male more than 10 years gulf experience in Office / Sales Coordinator, Admin, Secretarial and purchase with good computer skills.

Having Driving license and NOC available, looking for suitable placement. Contact 95149624

MISCELLANEOUS Pakistani male, MBA(Marketing)+PGD(HR) with 9 yrs experience in banking & hospital industry (Consumer Credit Review, Admin & HR). 3 yrs experience as Asst Manager, Admin & HR in famous private hospital in Oman with NOC. Contact: 95761982 or umerok@ hotmail.com Structure/Pipeline,Piping Draughtsman have 12+ yrs. Exp. in Oman seeking suitable placement.

Contact 92103713 NOC available.

Indian male 25 years, MBA finance and marketing with tally have 1.3 year experience in India. Now in Oman on visit visa. GSM: 97445488 Indian male, 19 years experience in purchase, material coordinator in building construction & factory production field. have good computer skills & driving license and NOC, looking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 99008101 Working as Senior accountant,5yr. exp.in oman, Accounting upto finalisation, relevant computer skills tally9, Sage, vcams , Audit ,valid oman driving license, languages known English, Arabic, Hindi. NOC avaliable can join immediately.

Tel: (+968) 96339599. E-mail(ahmedmohdkhan@gmail.com) Indian Female, 35years, Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) fresh graduate with BSc and MA looking for positions in Front Office, administration office, or any suitable positions in hospital, polyclinic, companies or Institutions. Contact 90236481 Network/Noc engineer, CCNA certified & CCNP trained, Indian male 27 years B.com(general) 5 years & 4 month’s of experience in the field of networking seeks for better placement.#97663834 / 98730758 INDIAN FEMALE– ME in CSE with 2 years’ experience in teaching seeking Suitable Job Opportunity. Contact: 94263445 or +91 9486251274, E mail – apshinmar@gmail.com Registered Filipina Nurse looking for a suitable job in Admin/ receptionist, experience in admin, on visit visa seeks placement. Contact 97435849 Indian male 22 years, looking for suitable placement in Hardware and Networking field, Having 1 year exp. in India, training in al ameen computers Muscat Ruwi. Qualification is Diploma in Electronics and Communication at present I am having my valid employee visa In the same work. Contact : 9739622910/8050101914, Email ID :- fairozhuded13@gmail.com Admin, having 10+ years experience in Admin/HR/Logistics/Time Keeper, in reputed companies. Presently working in Muscat. #968 94369965,mail - satya1528@gmail.com Civil Engineer B.Sc -6 years experience with constructions companies - qualified as A Project Engineer & Planning Engineer . Contact+968-94682217

MISCELLANEOUS Sudanese / Arabic & English teacher for all nationalities / willing to teach at home. Tel: 94211377 B.Tech CS, Indian female 23 yrs, looking for suitable placement (IT/ Banking / Administrator) currently on visit visa & ready to join immediately. Contact: 94704707 Email: sooryasnkr1@gmail.com Indian male with over 8 years experience in sales & marketing seeking suitable placement holding valid Omani driving license, fluent in English & Arabic. Contact: 97890681 Hospitality / Hotel Indian male 18 years of experience with excellent cooking Supervisory, Management and communication skills seeking suitable job on visit visa. #95363751 Network/Noc Engineer, Indian male 27 years B.com (General) 5 years & 4 month’s of experience in the field of networking seeks for better placement. Contact :97663834, bro’s no:98730758 Indian male, BBA, having 8yrs exp including 2yrs of (UAE) exp looking opportunities withinSales, Logistics, Retail, Operations. CONTACT 99052340, Mail Id: pradee.ys@ gmail.com B.Com Graduate, associate insurance, 25 year male, 3 years experience in accounts and 3 years in sales and marketing.

Contact no-95236312, mail id-lilommca@gmail.com Syrian Architect years experience in oman for work 2d plans and 3d internal and external projects in cooperation or even a piece . for contact : 97482871 Electrical Engineer with BS & MS Degree having 5 years of Experience in Electrical Utility/Water sector seeks a suitable job (on visit).

Contact: snaveelh@gmail.com Phone: 24413033/ 95731852 25 year male, B graduate, associate insurance with 3 years exp in accounts and 3 years in marketing.

NOC available.

Mail id lilommca@gmail.com and no-95236312 Indian male, 26 yr, b. tech Computer science, 4 years experience as system and network engineer looking for suitable job.

Contact : 0096893125669, Email : amritrajGT18@gmail.com Electrical Engineer with BS & MS Degree having 5 years of Experience in Electrical Utility/Water sector seeks a suitable job. Contact: 95731852 snaveelh@gmail.com Chartered Accountant, looking out for an opportunity in Oman in Audit OR Finance field. Available in Muscat from 10th – 16th Oct. Call : 91258435 26, Male, Indian, BBA (Finance), MBA(HR), Looking for suitable Job. Contact immediately. Contact 98176105, nruknaddin@outlook.com Indian lady looking for accounts Job, two years experience one year worked in Oman B.Com Graduate , Tally ERP9. GSM : 91123561

ACCA finalist, Recent B.Com Graduate, Indian Female, looking for full time employment in Accounting and Audit.+96896964379, sangeethaumesh5@gmail.com Indian Chartered Accountant, Male 25 years, 5 years of relevant experience, On Visit visa, Staying with Parents. Also holds BCOM (Computer Applications). Contact 98164467, 24492638 shyamal008@gmail.com

WEBSITE

Arab Lady seeking for Housemanager/Personal Assistant job.

Highly experienced. Arabic, English &French. Contat : +961 71339568 email : famurr@hotmail.com The Business Development Manager, Iraqi, Experience 14 Years Inside and outside Oman following activities: tenders& real estate& construction & marketing projects& investments& transportation & Marine services& companies management& develop business.

Contact 93240027 26, Male, Indian, BBA (Finance), MBA(HR), Looking for suitable Job. Contact immediately contact 98176105, nruknaddin@outlook.com INDIAN MALE , MBA. Having 10+ years experience as Automotives Sales Manager .Worked with M/s TALWAR AUTO GARAGES PVT LTD India’s Largest Selling Dealer for VOLVO EICHER commercial vehicles .Seeking for suitable Job in Oman.

Contact no: 98045482 Email: dmstalwar@gmail.com 26, Male, Indian, BBA (Finance), MBA(HR), Looking for suitable Job. Contact immediately #98176105, Email: nruknaddin@outlook.com FABRICATION & ERECTION-DUCT MAN Candidate seeking suitable opportunities & presently in Oman with NOC Mob:97239854, Mail:asherlalitha@yahoo.com 25yrs Indian Female with Bsc Nursing, MHA (master of hospital administration) Graduate looking for suitable placement. Contact:- 99513267 Email:-alinaelshaddai@gmail.com 50 years Indian male 15yrs experience as Manager in Steel and paper Plant seeking suitable placement. Kindly contact me on +91 9840943638 Chartered Accountant, Indian male, 25, two years experience, on visit visa. Staying with parents. Also has B.com+computer Application.

Contact: 24492638/98164467. shyamal008@gmail.com Diploma in Civil Engineer. I have 6 year experience in Oman seeking for suitable position Oman. #97415597, email: Nasir.muscat@gmail.com Indian male with 18 years of Indian and Overseas experience in hospitality industry, with excellent cooking, operational, managerial and communication skills seeking a suitable job from reputed groups and organizations. On a visit visa.

Contact: 95363751 Indian Female, MBA-HR having 8+ experience in Administration/HR, Customer Support, Office Coordinator with good Computer skill, now on Visit Visa ,looking for suitable position. Contact: 90196235 26, Male, Indian, BBA (Finance), MBA(HR), Looking for suitable placement in Finance/HR/Marketing.

Contact immediately. # 98176105, nruknaddin@outlook.com

Indian looking for a part time accounting or Internal Auditing job, contact 99196621.

Indian Male, 38 years, BE and MBA in Marketing from UK seeks suitable placement in the IT industry. #91200413.

33 year male Indian Keralite looking for Senior Accountant or Assistant Accounts manager having 10 years of working experience in Oman and Qatar with valid GCC license willing to work any GCC country, please contact : 97433387

Indian male B.Eng. in IT,CCNA,MCSA,MCSE, 2.5 yrs + exp. in IT support, networking and server support valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/ Server support.

Contact 92607532

Split & widow unit A.C servicing & repairing. Contact: 99557080 WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

Contact: http//webviewoman

SIT.WANTED MISCELLANEOUS 8+ years experienced senior accountant looking for a better placement. Contact No. +968 92935684.

Email - shabeerkkm@gmail.com.

NOC available.

29 years Indian female (MBAFinance) with 4 yrs experience in Accounts, seeking suitable placement in Accounts/Admin/HR. NOC available. Contact:96141283 ACCOUNTANT: Indian male 25 having 4years experience in accounting & having well knowledge in tally.

Contact:968 094535881, 0091 9037622048.

Email: vishnuraj889@gmail.com 31 year Indian male PG in HR , with 5 yrs Professional experience in HR in Construction Oil & Gas Oman seeking for a suitable placement.

Contact me on 93488914, emailKaarthickshankar@gmail.com ACCA finalist, Recent B.Com Graduate, Indian Female, looking for full time employment in Accounting and Audit. Contact +96896964379, sangeethaumesh5@gmail.com Admin, having 10+ years experience in Admin/HR/Logistics/Time Keeper, in reputed companies. Presently working in Muscat. Contact- 94369965 , mail - satya1528@gmail.com Indian male . 14 yrs experience in maintenance & Supervisor in hotel field ( Electrical . Ac Mechanical & Plumber ) N O C available mob : 95 25 36 40 . email = hareeshma24@yahoo.com ACCA Affiliate, Indian Male, Fresher, looking for full time employment in Tax and Audit.+968 91291520, shahidazeez5@gmail.com

Split & window unit A.C servicing & maintenance. #96236476 Window & split unit A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact 93769089 / 95323517 GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998 Split window unit A/ C servicing.

Contact 94694472 Cleaning & Carpet Shampooing, Ocean Center LLC. #99884591 Pest Control Treatments.

Ocean Center LLC. #99344723 Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & antitermite treatment, general cleaning painting, Plumbing, Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. # 24810137, 99450130 House shifting & packing.

Contact: 99657644 /98518013

House shifting & transporting.

Contact 92490422 MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. contact 24793614/ 99314807 Window & split unit A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact 93769089 / 95323517 Pest Control Gulfa Intl .LLC. Contact: 92326955 Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS99320217 /24788722

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T U E S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

TOURS

SITUATION WANTED CARGO

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours # 98029602, 92808636

MANPOWER

RENT A CAR

We offer labour for loading and unloading if any one required we are providing this service. Contact: 95208185 /95456022 Leading manpower agency to hire Recruiter from India housemaids.

Contact: 99226093, Email: fesalwardi48@gmail.com

TRANSPORTATION Transportation available Ruwi to Al Khuwair, Ghubra & Azaiba.

Contact: 91103909 Transportation available.

Contact: 99867456 Pick & drop any time.

Contact: 93598436 / 96743215 Pick & drop any time. Contact: 92218001/ 96502406