Times Of Oman - June 28, 2015

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RAMADAN PRAYER TIMINGS Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

IFTAR 7.02PM FAJR 3.55AM

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SUNDAY, June 28, 2015 / 11 Ramadan 1436 AH

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Eid flight tickets out of bounds for flyers Up and away Ticket from Muscat to:

Fares to almost all

Normal

Asian and tourist

Peak season

destinations

650

have gone up as

500%

everybody wants to

increase in some cases

530 500 Round trip

travel after Ramadan

450

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Oman urges world to combat terror Staff Reporter MUSCAT: Condemning the grisly attack in Tunisia and France, which claimed 38 lives, Oman’s foreign ministry issued a statement urging world powers to make more coordinated efforts to combat terrorism on Saturday.

“The attacks on a tourist site in Tunisia and a French factory was against humanity. The regional and global powers should renew their efforts to combat terrorism,” the ministry of foreign affairs’ statement read.

In the same statement, Oman SUN DAY

economy seats SKY-ROCKETING FARES: Tickets for the end of the Holy Month of

Ramadan have either been sold out or their prices have reached stratospheric heights.

Paris London Singapore Istanbul

But the biggest increase has been witnessed on the Muscat-Mumbai route with fares almost rising by a whopping 500 per cent from the normal fares.

“This is simply because everybody wants to travel on these dates, thinking that the Eid holidays will begin on July 16 and continue for the next 9 days,” a travel agent said.

A senior official of the airline industry, however, claimed that fares have not been hiked because of Eid. “People are only getting the higher class economy fares, which sometimes reach up to 500 per

cent,” he said.

As an example, he said one way fares to Muscat-Mumbai begin at OMR28, but during peak season they can be as high as OMR150.

“Everything depends on supply and demand,” he added.

It is not only India where airfares have reached sky high.

Flights to almost all the tourist destinations have almost doubled during the holidays. “The flights are full. Those who booked in advance have benefitted,” said a senior official from Mezoon Travels.

For instance, Mohammed Shafiqul Islam Bhuiyan, the general manager of New Star Inter-

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Relatives of the victims of Friday bombing console each other at the Al Jafariya cemetery in Suleibikhat, Kuwait while Dutch tourists are greeted by relatives upon their arrival at Schiphol airport from Tunisia on Saturday. -AFP/Reuters See also >A7, 15

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Ghala residents seek facilities Staff Reporter MUSCAT: As the Supreme Council for Planning is reviewing the re-planning of Ghala Industrial Area project, industrialists and residents have called for the modernisation of area without any delay.

“Ghala industrial area needs more changes. In the last few years, there has been an exponential increase in the number of companies coming up in the area. As the company units are growing, the number of labour camps are also growing. Sunil Kumar KK, a company official working in the area, told the Times of Oman. >A6 TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

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Substantial investments in the logistics sector in recent years will help Oman to emerge as a major logistics hub in the world.

Given the importance of the sector in the promotion of the national economy, several investments have been made in ports, airports and roads sectors. >B1

Young entrepreneurs in Oman face formidable hurdles with their new ventures as many of them see their business collapse within the first year dashing their dreams of making it big. The government had big dreams when it unveiled special funding for young entrepreneurs. >A2

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Times News Service MUSCAT: With Eid holidays expected to begin on July 16 or 17, air tickets for those and the following dates have either been sold out or their prices have reached gone through the roof.

“Flight tickets to most Asian destinations have drastically gone up, while on some sectors the prices have increased by 500 per cent making it difficult for those leaving Muscat after work on July 16,” said a leading travel agent based in Muscat.

Airfares on the Muscat-Delhi route are up at least 100 per cent while those on the Muscat-Kochi route have risen by 200 per cent.

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also expressed its sincere condolences to the victims’ families and wished for speedy recovery of the injured.

Meanwhile, travel agents in Oman said there were not too many travellers from Oman at the Tunisian tourist spots.

“Usually, we don’t have too many travellers from Oman to Tunisia. In our office, we don’t have data of anyone having travelled or having been stuck in Tunisia following the attack. If there were any, they would have contacted us by now,” the travel agent said.

Health LIF

(OMR) 288

ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company

T U N I S I A , F R A N C E AT TA C K S

and there are a limited number of

12.15pm 3.33pm 7.02pm 8.25pm 3.55am

28

Source: Travel agencies

Graphics

national Travel and Tour LLC, said a round trip ticket from Muscat to London will cost travellers OMR650, while a return ticket to Singapore will cost OMR500 and to Paris about OMR530 this Eid. “For Istanbul it will cost you a little more than OMR450 – if you are not willing to compromise on your dates,” he said.

During the off peak season, the price of flying to Istanbul is around OMR140. >A6

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Mids in the this ation in 32 year longest determin p, and exs – is the ly gth and , slee 15 hour of stren ding diet with fami ts – up to a real test inclu brations eating habi period approach of cele oach fasting bad Ramadan he daily . This makes thy, balanced ng this time diets and key is to appr our dle East with a heal suffer. Duri to turn process. The ity year, but es needn’t opportun rams in the bodi have an kilog – our all a few ercise ds, we be even lose way. frien ced and and may hy, balan around, in a healt Ramadan

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New-look Lifestyle section

C7

A2

SU N DAY, JUNE 28, 2015 Muscat Municipality has decided to eliminate any commercial deals between the municipality and its employees Civic staff banned from business deals >A3

OMAN SOCIAL SERVICE

C O M M E N TA RY

Nadia Al Balushi takes charge as goodwill envoy

GLOBAL MESSAGE: Goodwill Ambassadors are entrusted to serve the civil society and the humanitarian initiatives they run to deal with disasters and distress.–Supplied photo

AHMAD AL FARSI MUSCAT: Nadia Ahmed Al Balushi, was appointed the Goodwill Ambassador of Oman for the first half of this year at a ceremony organised by the International Goodwill Club at the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, at Dubai.

The ceremony began with the presentation of a film about the role and responsibilities of Ambassadors of Goodwill around the world, after which the chairman of the board of trustees of the International Goodwill Club, elaborated on the role of Goodwill Ambassadors in serving the civil society and the humanitarian initiatives they run to deal with disasters and distress.

The chairman explained that for the selection of Goodwill Ambassadors a specific criterion is followed and inspections are conducted; especially the future prospects of the nominees towards humanitarian initiatives for serving the people is reviewed.

Goodwill Ambassadors’ inau-

guration ceremony began with the performance of the national anthem for each country, including the Sultanate of Oman, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan and South Africa.

Joining Nadia were Sheikha Ohood Rashid Al Mualla and media personnel Hessah Al Riyasi from the UAE, Sheikha Noura Khalifa Al Khalifa from Bahrain as well as actor Mohammed Sobhi , media personnel Amro Al Laithi and musician Saleem Sahab. Businessman John Jameel from Egypt, Abdul Rahman Ataishan from Saudi Arabia, and Dr Akram Sabri from South Africa were also appointed Goodwill Ambassadors for their respective countries.

Nadia Al Balushi said, “I am honoured to stand before you with a message of peace to the world to serve all humanity.”

She also thanked the Goodwill Club for nominating them and for the trust reposed in the Omani youth for carrying the message of peace, led by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, to the world.

Why the dreams of young Omani entrepreneurs are so short-lived?

Y

oung entrepreneurs in Oman face formidable hurdles with their new ventures as many of them see their business collapse within the first year dashing their dreams of making it big.

The government had big dreams when it unveiled special funding for young entrepreneurs in the early 1990s aimed at alleviating employment crisis.

The Sanad programme was unveiled and many applied for soft loans of up to OMR50,000.

Two decades later, about 80 percent of these businesses stopped existing. A good number of them lasted only a year before they downed their shutters.

Two years ago, the Al Raffd Fund was created to rejuvenate the self-employment prospects of the youths with a OMR70 million capital. It has removed many of the obstacles of the Sanad programme and improved the overall funding schemes to make it more attractive and user friendly.

Business training, comprehensive marketing, a viable financial plan were all made compulsory besides having a good understanding of the product. However, although it could be too early to make a judgement, there is still no stark improvement of the survival rate of business start-ups. Like the Sanad, it lacks follow-up and commitment. Most of the soft loan recipients are people in their twenties who have never done business before.

The common element is that they have a problem creating a customer based network, which is essential for survival of any business. Quality assurance and product management are two other factors that let them down. But that is not all.

About 70 percent of the small government funded companies struggle to win contracts with

BUSINESS MODELS: Small entrepreneurs should get priority in sub-contracts for tenders won by

big companies. It would ensure equal opportunity for all trading houses in the Sultanate to have a fair share of business. -File photo

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SALEH AL SHAIBANY HAVE YOUR SAY AT TWITTER.COM/ TIMESOFOMAN OR SCAN THE CODE TO INSTANTLY POST YOUR THOUGHTS.

big corporate houses.

For example, a new recruitment company would have trouble getting business from a well established organisation or a stationary shop winning contracts for office supplies. Big companies do not take young entrepreneurs seriously. The same goes for most of the government-owned organisations.

New entrepreneurs are left to their own devices the moment the soft loans are transferred to their accounts.

Tender quotas If the various government-controlled Tender Boards protect big businesses by giving them special contractual consid-

The Sanad programme had many applicants for soft loans of upto OMR50,000. Two decades later, about 80 percent of these businesses had failed

erations, why budding entrepreneurs do not get the same privileges to boost them up? In 2014, the government awarded over OMR2.2 billion worth of contracts for various projects and services, eight percent more than the previous year. None of the contracts were awarded to young entrepreneurs operating under the special funds. It is very simple.

Unless the government spreads these important annual projects equally across all sectors of business classes, not just the so-called top grade companies, self-employment initiatives for the young business people will never take off.

It is important that a certain percentage of all tendered gov-

ernment contracts are reserved for small businesses to avoid economical discrepancies.

Many would agree to a special tender quota for trades under the Al Raffd Fund to ensure their long-term survival.

Moreover, small entrepreneurs should have a priority of getting sub-contracts for tenders won by big companies. It would ensure equal opportunities for all trading houses in the Sultanate to have a fair share of the business. After all, the success of small business people will lead to the expansion of the economy and generate more jobs. At the moment, a majority of young people feel intimidated when it comes to running their own businesses once they see the appalling survival record.

The way it goes now, self-employment in Oman, the integral part of many economies of the world, would soon start to lose steam and evaporate.

Creating a good and friendly environment for new entrepreneurs will help unearth new potential among youths. As it has been proved in the last two decades, making funds available is not the only incentive needed to encourage people to do business. More is needed to be done to ensure success so their trades do not go under just after twelve months of business. saleh@timesofoman.com

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Municipality bans staff from business relations The Royal Decree bans all transactions

It is the time for all public employees to avoid interfering in any transaction unless they are acting in the capacity of an official

between the municipality and employees at the municipality as an official or broker

Nasir Khamis Government official

FAHAD AL GHADANI fahad@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: In an initiative to avoid conflict of interests between the Muscat Municipality employees and the organisation they work for, the municipality has issued a circular banning any commercial transaction between Muscat Municipality and its employees.

“In accordance with the Royal Decree no. 112/2011, issued on October 24, 2011, about public property protection law to avoid

conflict of interest, Muscat Municipality has decided to eliminate any commercial deals between the municipality and its employees,” the circular issued by the Muscat Municipality reiterated.

Implementing Royal Decree “This has been done to implement the Royal Decree as the Muscat Municipality is keen to implement all Royal decrees,” said an official at the municipality. He

added that the circular has been sent to all officials in Muscat and Sohar Municipalities.

The Royal Decree bans all transactions between the municipality and any company involving any employee at the municipality as an official or broker from the company’s side.

The Muscat Municipality’s move was welcomed by public and people think all government institutions should follow the

SMES’ PRODUCTS

Ladies gear up for Ramadan Bazar MUSCAT: The Ramadan Bazar will kick off on Monday under the auspices of Sayyidah Hujijah bint Jaifar Al Said. The Bazar will have the participation of female owners of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and home projects.

The two-day event is being organised by a group of female owners of SMEs from Rawafid Oman Team, in cooperation

with Al Warraq Public Relations & Marketing.

Dr. Kaltham bint Mohammed Al Zidjaliyah, Honorary President of Rawafid Oman Team, said that organising of Ramdhan Bazar highlights the importance of activating voluntary plans and programmes of the team during this month as commercial activities witnesses growth in preparation for the Eid Al Fitr.

She added that as many as 10 small, medium and home projects will take part in the bazar to display the latest designs and models of fashion; abayas, traditional clothing, dresses, accessories, scarfs, handbags and many other female products.

Rawafid Oman Team aims to contribute to national and voluntary works that serve various categories of the society.–ONA

same norms. However, some say the importance of this Royal Decree should have been recognised much earlier while four years have already passed since its issuance.

Avoid interference “It is the time for all public employees to avoid interfering in any transaction unless they are acting in the capacity of an official,” said Saeed Khalfan, an employee at the government sector.

He added that such transactions lead to misuse of position at the public institutions.

Nasir Khamis, working in the government sector, also welcomed the move but questioned the Muscat Municipality the delay of four years since the Decree’s issuance.

“Four years is too long a period for activating the Royal Decree, especially as the Muscat Municipality is party to many transactions involving companies and individuals,” said Nasir.

He, however, appreciated that at least the Muscat Municipality has finally announced its move debarring its employees from entering such transactions. “It is the time for other government units to do the same,” he added.

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SUN DAY, JUNE 28, 2015

TODAY’S DU’A ‘You, the Creator of the heavens and the earth! You are my Protector in this world and in the Hereafter. Take You my soul (at death) as one submitting to Your will (as a (Muslim), and unite me with the righteous.’

‘Call unto me, I shall answer you’

A Hadith says that Du’a is the core of Ibaadah. And in Ramadan Allah has given us a great opportunity to ask for whatever we feel like and all our needs and prayers will be answered if prayed for with good intention. A. Z. Damudi outlines the significance of the key masterstroke, i.e, the Du’a

S

ince the gentle rocking of the cradle till one’s death, every person is surrounded by problems throughout his life. The nature of life itself is such that problems are an inevitable part of it. Difficulties are so deeply entwined with life that even their absence may turn into a considerable problem because it will rob off the people from learning and strengthening themselves.

As we all very well know, there is no human on this globe who doesn’t have his own set of predicaments. What distinguishes successful people from others is the way they deal with difficulties and how they face it.

We are very fortunate that we are part of an Ummah, whose Prophet (peace be upon him) left no stone unturned to educate his people about every aspect of life.

Such a farsighted man he was, that not only did he foresee the difficulties which his people might face, but also taught us how to face them and solve them. One of his teachings to face problems was : turning towards Allah with Du’a.

Du’a is an Arabic word which means “to call”. It means to turn to Allah and ask his help. Whenever a person runs into a problem, which he is unable to solve, his first impulse is to seek help. Du’a means seeking the help of the one who created us and the whole universe.

Before we delve deeper into what is meant by Du’a and how it is supposed to be done, it is essential we all understand its importance and significance.

Our Lord wants us to seek his help.

Allah himself has stated in the Holy Quran: “Pray to Me, I will accept; indeed those who stay conceited towards worshipping Me, will enter hell in disgrace.” [Surah al-Ghafir, Verse 60]. There are several narrations from the Prophet (peace be upon him) which clearly explain that our Lord is delighted when we seek his help.

It instils hope and confidence among us. Praying to Allah instils a new confidence among us as we realise that there is someone with whom we can share our fears, without any fear of being mocked at. When we pray to Allah, our minds are automatically reassured that help will come soon.

It makes us humble No matter how efficient a person is in

Best Times/ Situations to make Du’a (Supplication) w The last third part of the night w Late at night w Between Adhan and Iqamah w A specific hour on Friday (There

is a specific time on every Friday during which any Du’a will be accepted.) w While drinking Zamzam water w While prostrating w When waking up at night w At the end of the obligatory Salat w During the night of ‘Qadr’ (Decree) w During the rain w After the Adhan w While travelling w Du’a after praising Allah and giving Salat on the Prophet (PBUH) in the Tashahhud at the end of Salat w The Du’a of a Muslim for his absent brother or sister, stemming from the heart w Du’a on the Day of Arafat w Du’a during the month of Ramadan w Du’a when the armies meet w First ten days of Dhul-Hijjah w When the heart reaches out to Allah and is ready to be totally sincere w At Midnight

solving problems, sooner or later he will stumble upon a situation which he will find beyond his capability to overcome and out of his power to solve it. At such occasions, praying to Allah and asking for his help is what makes him humble and aware of a power much greater than his and a capability which is unmatched.

In other words, praying to Allah removes pride from the heart and makes us more rational and humble.

Apart from these, there are several points which will explain why praying to Allah and seeking his help is important to carry out a peaceful and successful

Situations and people whose Du’as are more likely to be accepted: w Du’a of the one fasting

until he breaks his fast w Du’a of the one fasting

at the time of breaking fast w Du’a of a just ruler w Du’a of a son or daughter obedient

to his or her parents w Du’a immediately after Wudu w Du’a after stoning the Jamarat

at Hajj w At the crowing of a rooster w Du’a made inside the Ka’bah w Du’a on the mount of Safa or

Marwah during Umrah or Hajj w Du’a at any of the holy sites w The Du’a of the one who is

suffering injustice and oppression is also immediately accepted as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said : There is no screen between his Du’a and Allah. w While reciting Surah al-Fatihah w Saying ‘Ameen’ during prayer w While visiting the sick w Du’a made by the sick

life. However, there are certain things which should be kept under consideration when seeking Allah’s help.

Du’a is the start, not the end of your efforts A lot of people have this misconception that praying to Allah is enough and their efforts will not be required to produce the result they are aspiring for or to solve the problem which they are facing. A wise scholar has correctly likened this to the plight of a hungry man, who has a platter of food kept in front of him and still he prays: “O my Lord, feed me with your hands.”

Praying to Allah does not mean one

stops his efforts, on the contrary, it means one bases his hopes not just on his efforts but also on Allah’s will and his power.

Respect the laws of the Lord If a person happens to visit a king to request for his help but breaks the laws of the kingdom or annoys the king in any way, would his request be accepted?

Similarly, when we kneel in front of the King of all kings and the Lord of the universe but we break the laws he had ascribed for us, if we commit things from which he had prohibited us, how can we expect our prayers to be answered and our cries of help to be taken seriously?

The Prophet (peace be upon him) explained this in detail as to why a person’s prayers will not be answered. “It will be because the food he has eaten will be the one prohibited, the cloth he wears will be those which Haram. How can his Du’as be heard?” he said.

Never lose hope When you have finally shared your fears with your Lord and have knelt before Him, seeking his help and asking for his guidance; just stay calm. Don’t be impatient. The Prophet (peace be upon him) has stated that no prayer to Allah ever goes wasted. Either he will grant you what you have asked for (sooner or later, whichever is best for you) or he will remove an impending calamity from your life. If not the above two things, then the fact that you had prayed will be recorded and you will get its “Ajr” (rewards) on the day of judgement.

(Sahih Muslim) In another Hadith, it is stated that when a person will see the Ajr he received because of the seemingly unanswered prayers, he will be so delighted and surprised that he will wish that all his prayers should have gone unanswered.

Du’a and praying to Allah has been called the “weapon” of a believer by the Prophet (peace be upon him). A person who believes in Allah and seeks his help can brave any problem and survive any difficulty he faces.

Praying to Allah and sharing with him is the best way to tackle depression and make headway into solving problems. So, the next time you face a difficulty, remember this master key to unlock the solution. (azdamudi@gmail.com)

Hadith of the day ABU SAID AL-KHUDRI (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, Anyone who fasts for one day for Allah’s sake, Allah will keep his face away from the Hellfire for (a distance covered by a journey of ) seventy years. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

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Oman Shipping Company shows the way to 100 students TARIQ AL HAREMI tariqh@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: One hundred Omani students from the International Maritime College Oman (IMCO) are to train with the Oman Shipping Company.

On the occasion of the Day of the Seafarer, Dr Hilal Al Hadhrami, Dean of IMCO, and Tareq Al Junaidi, Acting CEO, Oman Shipping Company, signed an MoU which would enable 100 students to train with the company.

The function, held under the auspices of Dr. Ahmed Mohammad Al Futaisi, Minister of Transport and Communications (MOTC), marked the efforts of

sailors towards maintaining their ships, and also their performance.

Rashid Al Kiyumi, Director General of Maritime Affairs in MOTC, said, “The ministry celebrates World Seafarers’ Day in recognition of the efforts of the seafarers in maintaining the safety of their ships and also to hail their performance, which requires a lot of patience and sacrifice.”

“No doubt that appreciating and valuing them is vital, especially since about 90 per cent of world trade moves by sea,” he added.

The MOTC revealed some new regulations on maritime operations and qualifications amid the ministry’s development plans such as sea and port regulations,

casualty investigation regulations, regulation for the qualification and certification of seafarers and manning of Omani ships regulation among others.

“Some of these regulations have already been issued, and some are at the legal review stage. Also, the development includes converting many services being provided to the public to be completed electronically through the electronic portal of maritime affairs,” explained Al Kiyumi.

Photography Contest To mark the Day of the Seafarer, the MOTC organised a photography competition for the Omani seafarers in which the work en-

vironment aboard ships was the subject. The competition was limited to employees working on Omani trade ships, including those of Oman Shipping Company, National Ferries Company and IMCO. A total of 76 photos were submitted, of which only three were chosen to receive a cash prize from the ministry. Ismail Al Balushi, Omar Al Maamari and Yahya Al Hinai were announced as the winners, ranking first, second and third, respectively.

The winners’ photographs will be displayed in a maritime exhibition which is to take place on Sunday, June 28, along with ancient and modern marine instruments.

India extends date for exchanging old notes The Reserve Bank of India has extended its deadline for exchanging the bills by another six months to December 31

REJIMON K reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Non-resident Indians who were running form pillar to post to exchange pre-2005 Indian currencies in Muscat can now heave a sigh of relief, as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has extended its deadline for exchanging the bills by six months to December 31.

As per the earlier RBI instruction, only three more days were left to exchange pre-2005 Indian currency notes of various

denominations, including the Rs500 and Rs1,000.

“I had a few pre-2005 Indian currency notes and was worried about how to exchange them. Most of the money exchange houses in Muscat were also reluctant in accepting them. Now, there is time.

I can exchange it when I go to India,” Manojkumar A, an Indian resident in Muscat, said.

The currency notes issued before 2005 do not have the year of printing on the reverse side.

In notes issued after 2005, the year of printing is visible at the

bottom on the reverse. Soliciting cooperation from the public to withdraw these banknotes from circulation, RBI urged the public to deposit the old design notes in their bank accounts or exchange them at a bank branch.

However, a top official from a money exchange house in Muscat said that they cannot replace or accept currencies demonetised by any country.

“Trading of those currencies are not possible. Customers who are holding such currencies should approach the respective countries’ central banks or banks authorised by the central bank to replace or exchange those currencies in full value,” the official said.

“In the case of Indian currency, it can be exchanged only in banks authorised by the central bank in India,” the official added.

The central bank has said that the notes can be exchanged for their full value, clarifying that all

pre-2005 notes continue to remain legal tender.

The rationale behind the move to withdraw banknotes printed prior to 2005 is to remove them from the market because they have fewer security features, compared with banknotes printed after 2005.

Gandhi series Explaining the move, RBI said the banknotes in the Mahatma Gandhi series have been in circulation for a decade. A majority of old banknotes have been withdrawn through bank branches.

It is estimated that over 1,640 million pre-2005 currency notes of various denominations, including Rs1,000, were shredded in regional offices of the Reserve Bank during the 13-month period ending January.

The face value of the shredded currency notes was some Rs 217.5 billion.

SHIPPING BROTHERHOOD: The function, held under the auspices of Dr. Ahmed Mohammad Al Futaisi, Minister of Transport and Communications, marked the efforts of sailors towards maintaining their ships, and also their performance.–Jun Estrada/TIMES OF OMAN

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We are raising funds from the participation and entrance fees to buy clothes for the under-privileged people and families during Eid May Al Bayat, marketing director at Dar Al Atta’a

Entrepreneurs showcase their products for charity

FREE CREDIT

Omantel’s new offer for Hayyak subscribers Times News Service MUSCAT: Omantel, in its latest promotional offer, has invited Hayyak subscribers to bring their friends or family members to join Omantel and get free credit for themselves as well as others, through the ‘Referral Programme’.

The the leading telecommunications provider in the Sultanate of Oman launched the scheme last Wednesday to enrich the customers’ experience.

Shadli Al Abdulsalam, Senior Manager for Product Development at Omantel Consumer Business Unit, said, “The offer is aimed at encouraging family and friends to join Omantel network and benefit from the discounted rates within the network and to explore an interesting world of benefits for the services provided by Omantel.”

He said, “The offer is valid for all Hayyak subscribers who have been with Omantel for at least six months, which allows them to invite their friends or family members to join Omantel family.

To enjoy this service, the new subscriber will have to send his referrer number via SMS to 80578 within 14 days of joining Omantel.”

Dar Al Atta’a has been requested to hold more than one charity bazaar every year as it gives entrepreneurs an opportunity to expand their business and get in touch with customers

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TARIQ AL HAREMI

tariqh@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Dar Al Atta’a recently held a charity bazaar featuring local entrepreneurs who displayed their products to be sold for charity at Al Noor Hall in Madinat Qaboos.

The 16th Ramadan exhibition was held to support entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services under one roof and provide options to customers for Eid clothing purchase.

“We are raising funds from the participation and entrance fees to buy clothes for the under-privileged people and families during Eid,” said May Al Bayat, marketing director at Dar Al Atta’a.

The bazaar features women’s products, such as abayas, scarfs, jewellery and perfumes.

Some participants have dis-

FOR CHARITY: The bazaar features women’s products, such as abayas, scarves, jewellery and perfumes. – Jun Estrada

played their goods each year since the start of the charitable event 12 years ago.

“What we have noticed over the years is that we have participants that participated right from the start, and we can see how advanced they move from year to year and become better by either the quality of things they are presenting or even in the design of their booths,” said Al Bayat.

Maitha Al Harthy, who has participated in the charity event for four years noted, “The event is very well organised and in an appropriate venue. Customers wait

for this event every year, but this year it is a three day event and the site is packed.”

Opportunity to learn “Since my shop is in Al Khoud, it gives those who live far from there a chance to browse through my products and buy something for themselves which leaves us both satisfied in the end,” she said, adding because of the bazaar, people will have the opportunity to learn about shops that they might have not known about.

She urged Dar Al Atta’a to hold more than one charity bazaar per

year, since it gives business owners an opportunity to expand their network and gain new customers.

Dar Al Atta’a plans for Ramadan do not stop with the charity bazaar. They will celebrate Qaran Qasho at Avenues Mall, which is a day where children walk from house to house picking up candy and money on the way, similar to Halloween in the West.

“We will celebrate Qaran Qasho at Avenues Mall on the July 3.

We also have a tie-in with Avenues Mall where they will pay Dar Al Atta’a one Omani rial for every child who celebrates Qaran

Qasho. The funds will be used for the student care programme to purchase uniforms, stationary and more for the underprivileged,” said Al Bayat.

Dar Al Atta’a will also celebrate their own Qaran Qasho by visiting children’s wards at Royal Hospital, SQU Hospital, Khoula Hospital and Dar Al Hanan to distribute toys and goods to the hospitalized children.

Next week the charity organization is planning to distribute coupons to 1,000 children so they might purchase clothing for Eid Al Fitr.

Subscriber He also added, “Both, the referrer and the new subscriber, will receive 50 per cent free credit from what the new subscriber spends today on the next day.

“For example, if the new subscriber who joined Omantel used 400bz on the first day, the referrer will get 200bz free credit and also the new subscriber will receive 200 bz and so on for 30 days to the referrer and 90 days for the new subscriber.”

In addition, the free credit may be used for local and international calls, SMS and paid internet and is only valid for one day. Also, the subscriber may check their free credit balance by calling *130#.

NEW OFFERS

‘Country needs regulator A1 to check high airfares’ < FROM

“The unbelievably high airfares show that a country like the Sultanate of Oman needs a regulatory authority. Developing countries need such regulators, as one cannot leave everything to market forces,” a resident said.

But travellers can get a good deal, if they are willing to travel during the Holy Month of Ramadan or after Eid holidays.

Taking the lead, national carrier Oman Air is offering 40 per cent off on business and economy class fares to selected international destinations.

“The catch is that it is valid for outbound travel period from June 17 to July 10, 2015 and travel must be completed by July 14, 2015,” said a travel agent.

Meanwhile, Doha-based Qatar Airways is also offering special promotions this season so customers can celebrate with family and friends.

“You have to book your tickets from now until June 30, 2015 for

travel from June 17 until December 15, 2015 and enjoy special fares for economy class tickets which begin from OMR124,” said a Qatar Airways spokesperson.

One of the fastest growing airlines, Qatar Airways, has seen rapid growth in just 18 years of operations, currently flying a modern fleet of 160 aircraft to 146 key business and leisure destinations across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and the Americas.

“Over the next few months, the network will grow further with Zanzibar on July 1, 2015, Durban on December 16, 2015, and Los Angeles on January 1 , 2015, in addition to Boston on March 16, 2015 and Atlanta on July 16, 2016,” said the spokesperson.

Further, Ethiopian Airlines has also launched special offers for passengers travelling from Muscat to Dar Es Salaam, Zanzibar, Nairobi, Johannesburg and Khartoum where, following the

purchase of three adult tickets, only taxes need to be paid for the fourth ticket. “The fourth passenger can be an adult or child and all must travel together,” said Sami Muctar, Country Manager Oman, Ethiopian Airlines.

Winding-down “With Ramadan coinciding with the extreme summer in the Middle East, a large number of airlines have come up with offers so that people can have the option of spending the Holy Month in cooler climes,” said a travel agent in Muscat. Travel agents believe that the onset of Ramadan also coincides with the winding-down of the busy summer travel period.

“This is simply because business travel in the region drops because of shortened working hours and the overall decline in commercial activity. But with the price of the euro down, people are travelling like anything,” a travel agent said.

I N D U S T R I A L E S TAT E

New plan to address safety A1 concerns of Ghala area < FROM

It is not easy to navigate through the industrial area. Most of the time, there is water shortage in the area. It is high time to undertake modernisation of the area,” said Sunil Kumar KK. “I am happy to hear that the government is reviewing the area plan,” Kumar added.

goals for 2015 which include the millennium development goals approved for the first stage (2000 to 2015).

Meanwhile, a few other company managers and workers hoped that the new plan will address the safety concerns of the industrial area.

Final layout Last Wednesday, aimed at replanning of the Ghala Industrial Area project, allocation of land uses, development of infrastructure and to review the final layout for roads and infrastructure, the Supreme Council for Planning reviewed the proposals submitted by the Muscat Municipality.

The report was part of the national team for the development

Safety standards “We hope that the safety standards in the industrial area will be upgraded. Many a times, lack of safety measures have resulted in fire accidents which has resulted in loss of property and life. We hope that the new plan addresses the safety concerns,” workers and company managers said.

The significance of developing the industrial estate in Ghala

arises due to the expansion of Muscat International Airport and the associated new roads which will run close to Ghala.

Modernisation “Modernisation of Ghala Industrial area is vital as the city is growing due to the expansion of Muscat airport and considering how close it is. If the modernisation doesn’t happen now, it will have an adverse impact in many ways,” the company mangers added.

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S U N DAY, JU N E 2 8, 2 0 1 5 In just five minutes, armed with the black Kalashnikov he had hidden in his beach umbrella, Saif Rezgui unleashed horror across the Imperial Marhaba resort, leaving 39 victims dead among the deck chairs and pool loungers.

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Tourists scramble to leave Tunis after horror on sand at resort Eight Britons among the 39 killed by the gunman. British Prime Minister David Cameron warns of further casualties from the attack

SOUSSE (TUNISIA): Casually dressed in dark shorts, a necklace and T-shirt, he would have looked like any other young Tunisian among the German, British and Irish sunbathers soaking up the Mediterranean heat on one of Tunisia’s long, yellow beaches.

Also on Saturday, in London, British Prime Minister David Cameron warned Britain to prepare for further casualties from the attack on the beach resort — already the worst loss of British life in a terror incident since the 2005 London bombings In just five minutes, armed with the black Kalashnikov he had hidden in his beach umbrella, Saif Rezgui unleashed horror across the Imperial Marhaba resort, leaving 39 victims dead among the deck chairs and pool loungers.

It was the worst attack of its kind in Tunisia’s modern history.

IS militant group claimed responsibility though authorities say Rezgui, a 24-year-old student, was not on any terrorism watch list or a known militant. Witnesses say the gunman, dressed like a tourist, drew little attention. He opened fire suddenly, making his way from the beach to the pool and hotel, selecting foreigners, pursuing his victims even as they fled indoors.

Aware of hotel layout Rezgui was apparently well aware of the hotel’s layout, a security source said. He had time to reload his rifle at least twice before he was finally confronted and shot dead by police outside the hotel.

Panicked tourists fled from the beach, running among the umbrel-

WORST ATTACK: (Left) People lay flowers at the site of a shooting attack on the beach in front of the Riu Imperial Marhaba Hotel in Port el Kantaoui, on the outskirts of Sousse south of the capital Tunis. (Right) Tourists wait to check in for their flight to Manchester, Britain, at the Enfidha international airport, Tunisia on Saturday. – Reuters/AFP

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las, some falling among the white plastic sun loungers, their bodies later to be covered with towels and sheets. Blood was smeared over the steps leading into the hotel.

“It was horror what we saw, he was killing in an incredible way. It was clear he knew the hotel, he was everywhere,” said Neil, an English tourist leaving Sousse with his wife. “He took seven minutes DESERTED: A picture taken on Saturday shows the cordoned-off killing. They was no sign he was beach of the Riu Imperial Marhaba Hotel at Port el Kantaoui. – AFP an extremist, he just looked like a normal young man.”

By official accounts, Rezgui was to terrorists. He wasn’t even on a continued, travel firms repatria dedicated student from a sta- watch list.” Tunisian authorities ated thousands of British tourble family who enjoyed partying said they had identified at least ists from beach resorts around and practiced break-dancing. In 15 Britons among the 39 killed by the attack site near Sousse. a pattern similar to other Tuni- the gunman, but Prime Minister About 20,000 British tourists sia militants, he appeared to have Habib Essid said most of the dead are on package holidays in Tunisia, according to ABTA, the country’s come into contact with extremist were believed to be British.

Meanwhile in London, British largest travel association. preachers about six months ago, a In a televised address from Prime Minister David Cameron senior security source said.

“He was a good student and added: “I’m afraid that the Brit- Downing Street, Cameron said the always attending class,” Prime ish public need to be prepared government would “do everything Minister Habib Essid said. “Our for the fact that many of those necessary to get people home” investigations show he didn’t re- killed were British.” As the grim and was providing consular assisveal any signs of extremism, or ties process of identifying the bodies tance, while experts from the Red

Cross had also been sent to the north African country.

Among those caught up in the massacre at the five-star Riu Imperial Marhaba Hotel, in the popular resort of Port el Kantaoui, were tourists travelling with TUI UK group operators Thomson and First Choice. TUI sent 10 planes on Saturday to repatriate about 2,500 customers, and said it was cancelling all its holidays to Tunisia for the next week.

British police are interviewing many of the returning tourists, in particular looking for any footage taken on mobile phones of the incident, and have also sent forensic experts and detectives to Tunisia to help gather evidence. Cameron on Saturday chaired a meeting of the government’s Cobra emergency committee and has spoken to the Tunisian president as well as to German Chancellor Angela Merkel, as many of the other tourists involved were from Germany.

Thousands of scared foreign holidaymakers were being flown from Tunisia on Saturday.

Witnesses described scenes of panic after the shooting at the hotel on the outskirts of Sousse. “All I saw was a gun and an umbrella be-

ing dropped,” British tourist Ellie Makin told ITV television. “Then he started firing to the right-hand side of us. If he had fired to the left I don’t know what would have happened, but we were very lucky.”

Briton Olivia Leathley, 24, heard “loud bangs” and when she went to the lobby to find out what was happening, she saw a woman whose husband had “been shot in the stomach in front of her.”

“All she said was that he’d been shot and that he was there bleeding on the beach and he was just saying, ‘I love you, I love you’, and then his eyes rolled back into his head.”

Another woman described how her fiance was shot three times while trying to protect her and was in intensive care in hospital.

“I owe him my life because he threw himself in front of me when the shooting started,” 26-year-old holidaymaker Saera Wilson told the BBC. Riu Imperial Marhaba Hotel pastry cook Slim Brahim said that after mowing down tourists on the beach the gunman had then turned his weapon on guests by the hotel pool. “I saw someone fire on elderly tourists. They were killed,” Brahim told AFP. “Then he threw a grenade by the pool.” — Agencies

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What they are talking is vague. They are saying Rs20.6 billion I am spending is all scam. I am not here to do scam, I am here to help those kids. I am here to prove myself Pankaja Munde, Women and Child Development Minister

Prime Minister is shielding, Raje, Lalit, alleges Congress ing between Modi and Shah, party sources indicated that the top leadership of the party had accepted Raje’s defence in the controversy.

Congress spokesman Ajoy Kumar argued that Vasundhara Raje has committed an ‘anti-national’ act by secretly supporting the immigration application of Lalit Modi. This has exposed BJP’s

IN EYE OF STORM: Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan participating in the fourth meeting of Chief Minister’s sub-group of Niti Aayog at Niti Aayog in New Delhi on Saturday. - PTI

Instead of taking action on these issues, Modi has become the protector of those having huge black money Ajoy Kumar Congress spokesperson

pseudo-nationalism’ the party’s demand for the sacking of Raje and Swaraj.

NEW DELHI: Taking a dig at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi over Lalitgate, Congress on Saturday accused him of following “Raje dharma” and “not rajya dharma” by shielding Rajasthan’s Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

“The Prime Minister should follow ‘rajya dharma’ and not ‘Raje dharma’ or ‘Lalit dharma’,” party spokesman Ajoy Kumar told reporters here even as he reiterated

‘Very disappointing’ Targeting the prime minister, Kumar said that his response on the issues of corruption and black money was “very disappointing” after his “tall promises” made during the Lok Sabha polls.

“Instead of taking action on these issues, Modi has become the protector of those having huge black money,” he charged.

Kumar’s remarks follow in the wake of the Bharatiya Janata Party central leadership coming out to

back Raje after initially not voicing its support for days.

However, the Congress spokesman argued that Raje has committed an “anti-national” act by secretly supporting the immigration application of Lalit Modi.

This has exposed BJP’s “pseudo-nationalism”, he claimed.

Incidentally, when he was the Gujarat chief minister 13 years back at the time when the state was rocked by riots, Narendra Modi was asked by the then Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee to “follow Raj Dharma”.

Meanwhile, embattled Vasund-

hara Raje on Saturday attended a NITI Aayog deliberation here but left the capital without meeting either Prime Minister Narendra Modi or BJP chief Amit Shah.

Raje, who has been facing mounting opposition pressure to quit in connection with the ‘Lalitgate’, arrived at around 9:30am and left the city after spending close to four hours.

Party sources were tight-lipped on whether the Rajasthan Chief Minister had sought any appointment to meet either the Prime Minister or the party President.

On Friday night, after a meet-

Allegations refuted Earlier on Friday, Rajasthan BJP refuted all the allegations being levelled at her, saying that the document which she signed in support of Modi’s immigration application to the UK government was never produced in court as she had backed out of it later.

The state unit of the party also claimed that Modi’s investment in the chain of hotels owned by her son was legal and had been disclosed to authorities.

Congress has been piling up pressure on BJP to sack Raje, accusing her of quid pro quo in helping the former IPL boss.

Raje has maintained silence over the raging row even though her office has termed the allegations “untrue”, claiming that they were aimed at harming her politically. BJP for its part has said it “fully supports” her.

The party has called her its tallest and most popular leader in the state, where she has led the party to its biggest Assembly and Lok Sabha wins. Raje was scheduled to visit London from June 27 to July 2 but cancelled the trip early this week in view of the NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog meet. - PTI

BUDGET AIRLINES PLEA

Government kills check-in baggage charge move NEW DELHI: Putting its weight firmly behind passengers, government on Saturday said it has, as of now, rejected budget carriers’ plea to allow them to charge for check-in baggage.

Confirming that airlines had approached the aviation regulator Director General of Civil Aviation for its nod, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Mahesh Sharma said the government has not accepted the request at this stage as it would put additional burden on the passengers.

Proposal rejected “We have got the proposal from low-cost flights to charge for check-in baggage. We have rejected it and there will be no consideration at the Aviation Ministry level. We will not want to put this burden on passengers,” Sharma told a private TV news channel. Sharma, however, said that his ministry has asked the airlines to send a detailed proposal on the issue and if it is found in the interest of the passengers, it may consider it.

When contacted, a SpiceJet official said, “We have not made the plea since the March 2015 circular of the DGCA,allowing the airlines to unbundle services. Have not heard about it (government rejecting airlines plea),” an AirAsia India official said. - PTI

A L L E G AT I O N

Diplomat ‘posted back’ to Delhi after wife accused of assault

CLARIFICATION: External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup said the issue was brought to the Ministry’s notice on May 10 when a staff member of the High Commission was found missing. - PTI file photo

MELBOURNE/NEW DELHI: Indian High Commissioner in New Zealand Ravi Thapar has been “posted back” to New Delhi following allegations that his wife had assaulted a staff member and a detailed investigation is being carried out into the matter, the External Affairs Ministry said on Saturday.

The action has been taken based on report of a team sent to New Zealand last month by the Ministry to conduct an independent inquiry following the allegations.

The victim, believed to be a chef, had walked 20km one night from the diplomat’s residence to Wel-

lington where he was found by member of a public in a distressed state. He was then taken to police station and later spent several nights at Wellington Night Shelter.

He alleged that he was kept in slavery and was assaulted by Sharmila, the High Commissioner’s wife, New Zealand media reports said.

To be investigated Indian External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup said the issue was first brought to the Ministry’s notice on May 10 when one of the Service Staff Mem-

bers of the High Commission was found missing.

“Though no charges were pressed by the Service Staff member, the Ministry will investigate the matter further. The High Commissioner has been posted back to Headquarters,” he said.

Swarup said the High Commission had immediately informed both New Zealand Police and Foreign Office and authorities reverted with the information that the staff member presented himself to the police on May 11 and made certain allegations.

He said the Ministry takes all

such cases “very seriously” and a team was deputed from Headquarters to New Zealand to ascertain the facts and conduct an independent inquiry.

“The team liaised with the New Zealand authorities to resolve the matter. The team also facilitated the return of the Service Staff member who wanted to return to India. He returned on May 28,” Swarup said.

Meanwhile, New Zealand media said Thapar is set to leave the country on Saturday and a vehicle was seen this morning at his Wellington address.

Also, New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it is aware Thapar is preparing to leave the country.

Treatment concern “MFAT was aware a staff member raised with New Zealand police concerns about his treatment in the high commission,” a spokesman said.

“MFAT has been advised the individual concerned elected not to take the matter further. That staff member had independent legal representation and decided to return to India.” - PTI

TENDER

Accusations fallout of efforts to break contractors’ lobby

DEMANDING RESIGNATION: Aam Aadmi Party workers hold

placards and shout slogans during their protest against Maharashtra Rural Development Minister Pankaja Munde demanding her immediate resignation in Nagpur on Friday. - PTI

NEW DELHI: Accused of involvement in a ‘scam’ for clearing purchases worth Rs20.6 billion without inviting tenders, Maharashtra Minister Pankaja Munda on Saturday shot back, claiming her efforts to break the hold of contractors’ lobby on the Women and Child Development (WCD Department had provoked such accusations.

She also demanded that those who have made the allegations come up with proof to substantiate the charges. “Where is the proof?” she asked, and claimed no procedures were overlooked by the department.

“There is a big, huge lobby of contractors in this department.I think, for years they have been running this department. And somewhere I am breaking that.

“I am doing strict inspection, I am doing strict categorisation of these activities and that is why somewhere this is happening and that is what I am very, very clear about,” the Women and Child Development Minister claimed.

“What they are talking is vague.

They are saying all Rs20.6 billion I am spending is all scam. I am not here to do scam, I am here to help those kids. I am here to prove myself,” Munde told a TV channel from London. The minister said she respected the questions raised by the opposition and written replies have already been given.

“I am not here to contaminate or favour someone or give someone some contract, I am here to deliver for those kids,” Munde said, emphasising that she worked and cared for children even before becoming a minister.

Congress spokesman Maharashtra Congress spokesman Sachin Sawant had earlier this week submitted a complaint to the Anti-Corruption Bureau alleging violations in purchases made by WCD department.

Munde was alleged to have cleared purchases worth Rs 20.6 billion on a single day in February through government resolutions instead of inviting tenders.- PTI

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INDIA

By-elections in 5 states register huge turnout her acquittal by the Karnataka High Court.

R K Nagar in Tamil Nadu from where Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa is seeking re-election and Aruvikkara in Kerala registered an identical turnout of

EXERCISING FRANCHISE: Women wait in queue to cast their vote

during the assembly bypolls in Agartala on Saturday. -PTI

74.4 per cent

NEW DELHI: A record turnout of voters marked the by-poll to R K Nagar Assembly constituency in Tamil Nadu, from where Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa is seeking re-election after her acquittal in a graft case, while high voting was recorded in five other assembly bypolls spread across as many states.

R K Nagar and Aruvikkara in Kerala, where ruling Congressled UDF and Opposition CPI(M)headed LDF are locked in a close

contest, registered an identical turnout of 74.4 per cent.

The voter turn out was over 80 per cent in Pratapgarh and Surma seats in Tripura and Chokpot (Meghalaya) while Garoth in Madhya Pradesh saw a turnout of 71.24 per cent.

Counting of votes will be held on June 30. One of the smallest constituencies in Tamil Nadu, R K Nagar in Chennai city had witnessed 72.72 per cent voting in the 2011 Assembly elections. CPI, AIADMK’s main rival in this bypoll, alleged booth-capturing.

The party’s candidate C, Mahendran said a complaint had been filed with election authorities alleging that some of the booths were captured by AIADMK men.

Besides Jayalalithaa and Mahendran, 26 others, including maverick social activist ‘Traffic’ Ramaswamy alias K R Ramaswamy.

Main opposition parties DMK, DMDK, Congress, BJP and PMK have boycotted the bypoll.

The by-election was necessitated by AIADMK’s P. Vetrivel vacating the seat in May to enable Jayalalithaa seek re-election post

TORRENTIAL RAIN

Floods kill 55 in Gujarat; relief work continues

NATURE’S FURY: A road damaged due to the floods after heavy rainfall in Amreli on Saturday. - PTI

AHMEDABAD: Relief workers were on Saturday trying to reach residents stranded by floods in Gujarat triggered by torrential rains that have so far claimed 55 lives, officials said.

Officials were providing food and water to the people affected by flash floods in the Saurashtra region, as thousands fled to safer areas following the rains that started on Wednesday.

Trail of destruction The rain has since subsided but left a trail of destruction, with scores of houses damaged as well as roads, railway tracks, bridges and electricity pylons destroyed.

An official from the state’s emergency department said two more bodies were recovered on

Saturday in the coastal district of Amreli.

“The death toll has touched 55 since June 24,” the duty officer at the state flood control centre said.

Ministry of Defence spokesman Sitanshu Kar said on his twitter account that the Indian Air Force had “carried out 23 sorties by 6 MI-17 V5 Helicopter and dropped 5.87 tonnes of food packets”.

Officials said improved weather is now allowing workers to restore power supply to some 200 villages in Amreli and Junagadh districts which were hardest hit by the flash floods brought on by the annual monsoon rains.

Bipin Bhatt, Gujarat’s deputy relief commissioner said there have been no rains in the region since last two days, helping the authori-

ties to reach residents with food, medicines and cash assistance.

An official statement on Friday said the floods have damaged a portion of the rail line that connects Pipavav Port to the state capital Ahmedabad near Amreli, and severely affected operations at the port.

More than 5,000 animals carcass have also been recovered and disposed off, it said. Forest officials said four endangered Asiatic lions were found dead in Amreli and Bhavnagar districts.

“Two adult lion carcass were found floating in flood water,” G. S. Singh, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Bhavnagar said. His counterpart in Amerli said a fiveyear-old lion and lioness were found dead in the district. - AFP

S U D D E N I N FA N T D E AT H S Y N D R O M E

Infant dies after receiving anti-polio vaccine in Bihar HAJIPUR/NEW DELHI: A seven-month-old girl died while six other children are undergoing treatment at a government hospital after being administered antipolio vaccine in Bihar’s Vaishali district, doctors said on Saturday.

Civil Surgeon (CS) of Vaishali Ramashish Kumar said that Sonali Kumari, a seven-monthold girl, died at her home late last night after she was administered the anti-polio injection during the day at Shahpur village.

Report sought The Centre termed as “sudden infant death syndrome” the fatality and sought a report from the state government.

Six other children of the village

under Ganga bridge police station have been admitted to Sadar hospital for treatment, Kumar said.

Sadar Hospital doctor B. N. Jha, who is treating the children at the hospital, said they reported complaints of vomiting and shivering among other problems.

The CS said a team under Executive Director of state Health department Rahul Kumar has gone to the village to probe the matter.

“It seems to be a case of sudden infant death syndrome. Post mortem is being conducted,” a senior Union Health Ministry official said in Delhi.

According to the investigation by the Ministry’s team, the child was unwell before being given the vaccine.

“All children were fine except for the one who was found dead in the morning. She already had mild fever and parents also do not know the reason,” the official said.

Panic reaction He said that the six other children who reportedly fell sick were brought to the hospital as a “panic reaction”.

“As a panic reaction, all the children who were vaccinated in that locality were brought to the hospital and were finally discharged after two hours of observation,” the official said.

India was declared polio-free by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2014 after no case was detected since 2011.- PTI

A9

Voters brave heavy rain In Kerala, voters braved heavy rain to turn out in large numbers for the bypoll in Aruvikkara. During the 2011 assembly elections, the polling percentage in the seat was 70.61. The bypoll was necessitated following the death of former Speaker G Karthikeyan who represented the segment (previously known as Aryanad) in the state assembly from 1991-2015.

In a three-cornered contest, UDF candidate K. S. Sabarinath, younger son of Karthikeyan, is taking on former Speaker and exminister M. Vijaykumar (LDF) and former union minister, O. Rajagopal fielded by BJP. The bypoll is a litmus test for both the Fronts as panchayat polls are to be held later this year and assembly elections are just a year away.

Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has said the poll outcome would be a referendum on the government’s performance during the past four years while the Opposition was confident that the electorate would deal a heavy blow to the ruling Front which was facing various allegations. - PTI

A D M I N I S T R AT I V E A P P O I N T M E N T S

Confrontationist attitude no good, Centre tells Delhi NEW DELHI: Locked in a bitter turf war, the Centre on Saturday asked the Delhi government to leave its “confrontationist” attitude and not to create confusion in the administrative appointments, a mandate of which lies with the Union Home Ministry.

Taking note of the tussle over the functioning of Anti Corruption Branch (ACB), highly-placed sources in the Ministry said the Delhi Legislature had been formed under 239AA of the Constitution where the state government has no say on the issues of Police, Public Order and Land.

They said, several measures have been taken by the Centre to make the Chief Minister to have a say in the functioning of the bureaucracy, but what has been witnessed in the recent past was a total confrontation between the Delhi Government and the Lt Governor Najeeb Jung. For better functioning, the confrontational attitude has to be deserted, the sources said.

On functioning of the ACB, they said, ACB was given the powers of a police station by a notification by the then Lt Governor. The Centre can revoke that notification anytime and the ACB will never have the powers to even register an

FIR, they warned, and also made it clear that the Delhi Government has no say in the appointment of Delhi’s Chief Secretary, Home and Finance Secretaries and Delhi Police Commissioner. Delhi Government appointed Rajendra Kumar in place of Dharam Pal as Home Secretary, which has not been recognised by Centre and continues to route its files through him only.

The Centre also warned that Delhi was not a full-fledged state and, therefore, it could not seek deputation suo moto from other states, the sources said. Delhi Government had appointed six police officials of Bihar Police in the ACB. In a related development, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal along with his deputy Manish Sisodia and senior AAP party leader Kumar Vishwas called on Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday.

While the Delhi Government sources claimed that they apprised Singh about the alleged corruption charges against M K Meena, the Centre’s appointee as Delhi ACB Chief, the Home Ministry sources said that the meeting dealt with local issues only and no contentious matters were discussed. -PTI

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PAKISTAN

B A L O C H I S TA N

HEATWAVE SURVIVOR

Amnesty plan unveiled for insurgents QUETTA: Authorities in Balochistan announced a general amnesty plan on Friday for all homebased Baloch militants who are willing to renounce violence and lay down their arms.

The amnesty plan — drawn up in the hope of stubbing out the lowkey insurgency that has plagued the province since 2006 — was unveiled at the end of a meeting of the provincial apex committee, headed by Balochistan Chief Minister Dr Abdul Malik Baloch. The meeting was convened to review progress on the implementation of the National Action Plan.

According to an official handout, the apex committee meeting analysed in detail the need for maintaining law and order in the province.

The meeting agreed that a “peaceful, conciliatory Balochistan policy will be implemented so that the youngsters who want to lay down arms and join the mainstream can be granted amnesty and be encouraged to rehabilitate themselves”.

A senior government official said the amnesty scheme only applies to those Baloch insurgents who are fighting locally. “Those who are hiding abroad will be dealt with legally,” he said.

Under the scheme, he said, small-time fighters will be paid Rs500,000. “Mid-level commanders will get Rs1 million while top commanders will be paid Rs1.5 million,” he said, adding that rich cash prizes were offered to ensure the fighters do not rejoin insurgent groups.

During the governor’s rule in 2012, the then provincial governor, Nawab Zulfiqar Magsi, had also announced Rs10,000 in general for all fighters surrendering their weapons in Balochistan.

The apex committee also reviewed the overall security situation in the province after poring over different reports and recommendations of the concerned authorities.

Members of the committee noted that the measures taken with the coordination of all the concerned departments were satisfactory and had developed a sense of security amongst the masses.

The committee also voiced satisfaction that sustained action against miscreants, criminals and other anti-social elements had been largely fruitful.

They agreed that such elements would not be granted any concession and action would continue against them.

They also agreed that outlawed religious outfits and extremists would find no space in the province and strict action would be taken against them. — Express Tribune

A man, who collapsed due to an intense heatwave, has water-soaked towels placed on his head and arms at an army camp, set up outside an emergency department at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre in Karachi, Pakistan, on Saturday. Sea breezes brought lower temperatures on Friday to ease a heatwave that has killed more than 1,150 people around Pakistan’s teeming port city of Karachi during the Holy Month of Ramadan. — Reuters

Books with incorrect maps ordered to be taken off shelves as head of the committee. However, it has been revealed that the books were printed under his supervision in the first place.

Students have been asked to return the books containing incorrect maps and the local government has directed action against members of the education department

LAHORE: Punjab government directed on Saturday all eighth grade geography books containing incorrect maps of Pakistan to be taken off shelves, Express News reported.

Further, students have been asked to return the books containing incorrect maps and the

DECEIVED: Pakistani girls attend class at a school in Mingora, the main town of Swat valley. The Punjab government directed on Saturday all eighth grade geography books containing incorrect maps of Pakistan to be taken off shelves. — AFP file photo

Punjab government has directed action against members of the education department. It has been revealed that the Punjab Textbook Board (PTB) was aware that wrong maps had been printed but

GOOD MOVE

US likely to implement zero duty on Pakistani mangoes ISLAMABAD: The United States is likely to implement zero duty on import of Pakistani mangoes in the upcoming Generalised System of Preferences (GSP), a senior Ministry of Commerce official said.

The officer said that a high-level meeting between the ministry and US officials was held recently to discuss GSP-related issues with focus on Pakistani mango exports. It was understood that the GSP pertaining to Pakistani mangoes will be effective for the next two months.

At present, there is a 10 per cent duty on import of Pakistani mangoes to the US that, after the status, will be brought down to zero.

The official said that around 200 tonnes of Pakistani mangoes are exported to the US and are available at $3.5 per kilogramme in different cities. This cut in import duty will ultimately help increase the quantity of exports to the US market. Major cities where Pakistani mangoes are being marketed are Houston, Austin and Dallas.

“This will be a good move for the horticulture sector of Pakistan and will help facilitate mango exports to US,” said Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) Chairman Standing Committee on Horticulture Ahmad Jawad.

Jawad said mango exports to

I think the upcoming Generalised System of Preferences would prove a window of opportunity for our mangoes in the US, which is an attractive market for Pakistani fruit.

It is one of the largest importers of mangoes and Pakistan would like to capitalise it with full potential, said Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry Chairman Standing Committee on Horticulture Ahmad Jawad

the US received approval in 2010, but the volumes remain meagre till date due to procedural issues.

He suggested that United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) should also consider the process of Hot Water Treatment (HWT) for Pakistani mangoes to increase the volumes. The HWT process was approved by the Australian Department of Ag-

riculture, Forestry and Fishery (DAFF) for Pakistani mangoes to Australia.

The GSP status of 127 countries including Pakistan had been suspended for the past 20 months by the US Congress. However, the amount of duty paid on the products will be refunded to Pakistani exporters after its re-authorisation. — Express Tribune

had failed to take any action.

Of the 150,000 eighth grade geography books printed by the PTB, 50,000 of them contained incorrect maps of the Punjab and Pakistan. The maps mentioned Hazara

and Seraikistan as provinces.

The Punjab government has also ordered an inquiry committee to be formed and the Punjab Textbook Board’s chairperson, Nawazish Ali, has been appointed

Seeking action Earlier on Friday, Law Minister Rana Sanaullah told the provincial assembly that an investigation had been ordered and a report sought on inclusion of incorrect maps in PTB’s geography textbooks. Sanaullah requested the House to wait for the completion of the inquiry before proceeding with an adjournment motion seeking action against officials responsible for the mistake.

The adjournment motion was moved by Leader of the Opposition in the provincial assembly Mehmoodur Rasheed.

Responsible officials It demanded action against officials responsible for the incorrect maps. Rasheed said the House had already passed resolutions in support of a division of the province if needed and the matter could be taken forward through political consensus. — Express Tribune

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Is Omanisation best way to generate jobs?

KAMRAN REHMAT

To be sure, my generation has never heard of such staggering stats resulting from a heatwave in Pakistan: More than 1,100 killed — over a thousand in Karachi alone — and another 40,000 affected by the scorching weather, who struggled for timely treatment http://bit.ly/1JcyNQD

«

Photo by: Dhinesh.J

ALICE JONES SHARE THIS!

t has been more than two decades since the Omani government launched its Omanisation plan, which is one of the national priorities to provide employment for nationals who enter the job market every year.

This is in line with other countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council that have adopted similar policies where expats constitute 40 to 70 per cent of the population.

A number of measures have been undertaken.

These include gradual reduction in the percentage of expatriates in various grades; two- year ban on transfer of employment. The goal of these is to fulfil the ultimate aim of reaching 100 per cent Omanisation.

It is important to ensure creation of jobs for nationals - about 50,000 of whom require jobs yearly. Obviously the authorities need to find ways to meet the increasing demand for jobs for the citizens. To meet the challenge, in recent years, the government has become aggressive in this front. However, the moot question is how far Omanisation will succeed in generating more jobs for nationals?

A look at the recent data of National Centre for Statistics and Information reported by Salim Al Hashmi, “Omanis won’t go for 88 per cent of expat jobs, says official”, Times of Oman, June 21, 2015) reveals interesting insights. Since December 2013, the number of working expats has increased by 6 per cent from 1.52 million to 1.61 million contrary to what one would have expected in the backdrop of the tightened government policy.

As of April 2015, the private sector employed about 81 per cent of the total working expats.

Private organisations work for profit and not to provide employment to expatriates.

Possible reasons could be that nationals are not keen to take up those jobs or they find the salary unattractive. Three countries, namely, India, Bangladesh and Pakistan account for 1.40 million out of 1.61 million comprising 90 per cent of the total foreign workforce. The educational level of 90 per cent of this workforce is secondary or less.

Most jobs held by expats are low paying and unattractive. This is confirmed by the survey - that Omanis won’t go for 88 per cent of expat jobs.

What about the remaining 12 per cent? Expats with higher qualification and experience indeed add value for Oman. Their experience

Welcome to the new look #Trending page of the Times of Oman, our revamped home for views and opinion. Plus daily we‘ll be rounding up the stories making waves online, on social media, in pictures and on video. All the content can be found at our mobile, tablet and desktopfriendly website timesofoman.com. For instant access scan any of the QR codes via your smart phone as a qrcode in the story

helps organisations to increase innovative ideas thereby provide employment opportunity, which in the long run would benefit nationals. Is Oman chasing an elusive target?

This is not say that Omanisation should be discarded but to show that Oman might benefit more from exploring ways to increase long term employment. Looking the other way might create more opportunities.

READERS’ FORUM Why are terrorists killing innocent people?

This refers to the news story, Terrorist attacks in Tunisia, Kuwait and France stun three continents (June 26). It was very sad news.

Many innocent people die without any reason. Many children, who are the future of the world, perished. There is nothing to be gained through terrorism. Why are they killing innocent people?

How will they profit from this? If they want to kill people why they not kill criminals.

— Muhammed Riyas Kakkaattil, Muscat

No probes into weapon entry

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, Terrorist attacks in Tunisia, Kuwait and France stun three continents (June 26). One question I have in my mind is how do the terrorists get weapons inside the country. In my opinion, it means there are no proper investigations. — Justin Sanctus, Muscat

Amy Winehouse died at 27, like Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison and Kurt Cobain before her. For an industry so grievously familiar with premature death, the music business has yet to pay any serious attention to preventing it, to recognising the fragility of its talents http://bit.ly/1KhpOzc

CLIPPINGS FROM OUR ARCHIVES JUNE 1999

Seminar on petroleum and energy held Rashid bin Khalid Al Barwani, marketing adviser to the oil and gas minister, yesterday presided over the fourth OmanJapan joint seminar on petroleum and energy on the ministry premises. A total of seven working papers will be presented during the one-day symposium, of which four by the Omani side and the rest by the Japanese. The seminar aims at building and strengthening joint ties among exporting and importing countries and enhancing cooperation between the Sultanate and Japan.

Killers have lost their mind This refers to the news story, Oman condemns suicide blast at Kuwait mosque (June 26). This incident is indeed very tragic. The killers have lost their mind. It needs to be asked why the biggest crime of killing innocent people is committed. May God protect our Oman always.

— Shailender Singh Panwar , Muscat

Terrorist attacks repugnantly hateful This refers to the news story, Oman condemns suicide blast at Kuwait mosque (June 26.) In my opinion, this attack is abominable by all standards. Only the most heartless people are capable of committing such a repugnantly hateful crimes.

— Masoud Al Habsi , Muscat

PICTOGRAPH

THE GREEN SEA TURTLE The peak time for turtle watching in Oman is from July to October, when approximately 20,000 turtles visit Oman beaches to lay their eggs each year.

Distribution

Major nesting sites Ad Daymaniyat

Muscat Ras Al Hadd Ras Al Jinz Masirah

Mature individuals’

TODAY IN HISTORY

NEW INDIA ASSURANCE New India’s PERSONAL ACCIDENT INSURANCE offers you world-wide cover/ protection and TRAVEL INSURANCE that ensures you tension-free travels. www.newindiaoman.com

SIZE RANGE

1743: English King George defeats the French at Dettingen, Bavaria.

1871 : The yen becomes the new form of currency in Japan.

1918: Two German pilots are saved by parachutes for the first time.

1920: Scientists at Bell Laboratories in New York reveal a system for transmitting television pictures.

1973: President Richard Nixon vetoes a Senate ban on the Cambodia bombing..

78cm

153cm

Minimum

Maximum

Carapace length

Source: IUCN | Ministry of Tourism

A1 3

S U N DAY, JU N E 2 8, 2 0 1 5

2,467

WORLD

people were meanwhile in isolation, down from 2,931 on Friday

Russia’s Verba anti-aircraft system

WA R N I N G

Sri Lanka civil servants to face jail if election laws are violated

Russia’s next generation manportable air defence system (MANPADS) can engage aircraft, drones and cruise missiles head-on in a frontal attack. Most western MANPADS operate only in pursuit of a target

Verba 9M333 rocket Gu

ida

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s election chief on Saturday warned civil servants they will face fines and three years in prison for failing to ensure a free and fair parliamentary election announced for August.

The head of the independent election commission, Mahinda Deshapriya, said he has been given wide powers under a recent statute to deal with civil servants who violated elections laws and favoured candidates.

New power “I have powers now to jail public servants for a period of three years and also fine them up to Rs100,000,” Deshapriya told reporters a day after President Maithripala Sirisena sacked parliament and cleared the way for an election 10 months ahead of schedule. Almost all previous elections have been marred by allegations that state officials colluded with the party in power to give them an undue advantage.

Independent poll monitors have also reported large scale abuse of state vehicles and other

I have powers now to jail public servants for a period of three years and also fine them up to Rs100,000 Mahinda Deshapriya

Election Commission head

resources to boost the campaign of the party in power. At the previous national vote, the presidential poll in January, Deshapriya had ordered police to” shoot in the head” and kill anyone trying to disrupt elections.

The January 8 election was relatively peaceful with only one

drive-by shooting which killed a supporter of Sirisena. Deshapriya said the formal election period will begin from July 6 and warned that the government cannot make any politically-motivated transfers of civil servants until after the vote on August 17.

Sirisena dissolved the legislature at midnight on Friday and said he would summon the new parliament on September 1 in line with pledges he had given to Sri Lanka’s international backers.

During the May visit of US Secretary of State John Kerry, President Sirisena had assured that there would be a new government in Colombo by September.

Pro-Western Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had pressed for early elections to increase the majority of his United National Party (UNP), which sat in opposition until Sirisena’s victory in January’s polls.

Wickremesinghe’s party has welcomed the election as an opportunity to increase their strength in the legislature and ensure stability. - AFP

nce

sec

tion

Warhead 1.5kg high-explosive.

Blast generator uses any remaining rocket fuel as additional explosive

Tri-band heat seeker Operates in ultraviolet, near- and mid-infrared wavelengths to increase target range by 250%

6km

Range

up to 6,500m

Kill altitude

500m/s

Velocity

Sol

id-f

uel

Weight

11-12kg

Length

1,635mm

flig

ht m

oto

r Lau boo nch ste r

Verba 9K333 launcher Night-firing capability Digital system believed to be highly immune to electronic jamming

IFF radar antenna Detects transponders on friendly aircraft Link to digital fire control network

Thermal battery Disposable launch tube

Trigger

Gripstock Reuseable assembly contains battery cooling unit and “identification friend or foe” (IFF) interrogator switch Source: IHS Jane’s, KB Mashinostroyeniya

Graphic News /

Graphics

S. Korea fears MERS may have spread to new hospital in Seoul The latest case involved a 27-yearold nurse at a hospital in eastern Seoul who was believed to have been infected while treating a patient

SEOUL: South Korea on Saturday said it was closely monitoring a hospital in eastern Seoul over fears that hundreds of people there may have been exposed to the deadly

CLEAN SWIPE: A member of staff cleans a ticket turnstile near a

train platform as she wears a face mask at Kowloon station in Hong Kong on Saturday. - AFP

MERS virus.

A 70-year-old woman who caught Middle East Respiratory Syndrome while visiting an infected relative in a different hospital

was feared to have spread the virus to the new site.

“We are focusing our efforts in tracing contacts and isolating people who came close to this patient”,

INCESSANT RAINS

14 killed in Bangladesh due to landslides, floods DHAKA: At least 14 people were killed and over 35 others injured in a series of landslides and flashfloods triggered by torrential rains in southeastern Bangladesh,

officials said on Saturday.

The incessant rains, caused by a virtually persistent low in the Bay of Bengal, in the past two days and resulting in the swelling of riv-

ers have also marooned millions of people in several villages in the region. The inflated wasters submerged dozens of villages in western and northwestern districts. - PTI

a senior health ministry official told journalists on Saturday.

The woman died on June 25, two days after she was diagnosed, but due to the virus’s 14-day incubation period, anyone she infected may only start showing symptoms in the coming days.

The official said it was too early to say whether the outbreak may be on the wane, given that new cases are expected at the new site.

“We would be able to talk about any trend of the outbreak only after watching the development at the hospital”, he said.

The comments came as the country reported one additional MERS case, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 182 in the largest outbreak of the deadly virus outside Saudi Arabia.

However, no additional fatalities were reported over the past 24

hours, with the death toll standing at 31, the health ministry said.

The latest case involved a 27-year-old nurse at a hospital in eastern Seoul who was believed to have been infected while treating a patient. She is the fifth confirmed case at the hospital, where more than 100 patients who were exposed to the virus while undergoing dialysis have been isolated since June 18.

Of the 182 confirmed cases, 90 people have recovered, 31 have died and 61 others are still being treated — 13 of whom are listed in a critical condition.

Most of the deceased had preexisting medical conditions, according to the health ministry.

Some 2,467 people were meanwhile in isolation, down from 2,931 on Friday.

Meanwhile in Hong Kong, im-

ages on local media showed people wearing hazmat suits at a major subway station cleaning the escalators and mopping the floors after a 17-year-old Korean man with a fever sought medical care at a clinic in the station. The city’s health minister said the man was being tested for MERS. “Today there is a patient, he is a young Korean male and came to Hong Kong from the US passing through South Korea. He’s been in Hong Kong for around 10 days but today he had a fever,” the city’s health minister Ko Wingman told reporters.

The city has not reported any cases of MERS, though multiple people have been tested for the virus. The area outside the clinic in the station was cordoned off and the man has since been isolated in hospital. - AFP

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SU N DAY, JUNE 28, 2015

GLOBAL EYE

UNITED KINGDOM: The Royal Air Force Falcons perform a synchronised parachute display at an Armed Forces Day event in Guildford, United Kingdom on Saturday. — AFP

RUSSIA: Russian swamp football players fight for the ball during the Cup of Russia match outside Saint Petersburg on Saturday. — AFP

SWITZERLAND: Swiss construction workers carry a banner to demand reduction of the retirement age to 60 years during a demonstration in Zurich on Saturday. — Reuters

RUSSIA: Sailing boats compete at the Mayor’s Cup amateur race on the Yenisei River in the Taiga district outside Siberian city of Krasnoyarsk in Russia on Saturday. — Reuters

SPACE: This NASA image obtained on Saturday shows the sun as it emits a mid-level solar flare, an M7.9-class, peaking at 4:16am EDT on

Thursday. NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory, which watches the sun constantly, captured an image of the event. — AFP/NASA/SOD

KENYA: Maasai Morans wait for the start of the ordination of the Maasai age-group leader of the Iltuati Morans in the village of Mbirukani in Kajiado, Kenya, on Saturday. Nixon Kupera Ole Metoi, 25, was ordained leader in a symbolic gesture that carries with it great influence, respect and power not only among his age-mates but also the wider community. The Maasai are a Nilotic ethnic group of seminomadic people inhabiting southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. They are among the best known local populations due to their residence near the many game parks of the African Great Lakes and their distinctive customs and dresses. — AFP

CHINA: A new artwork titled ‘Jumping Orange’ by artist Kong Ning, which consists of 443 life jackets, is seen in the yard of an art gallery in Beijing, China, on Saturday. Kong Ning said she was motivated to create this piece after a cruise ship capsized in the Yangtze River earlier this month, and covered the life jackets with yellow ribbons to commemorate the victims of the accident. She plans to display this work near the scene of the incident in the Yangtze river in the future. — Reuters

S U N DAY, JU N E 2 8, 2 0 1 5 What we want is a robust deal that recognises Iran’s right to civil nuclear power, but guarantees that Iran gives up definitively the nuclear weapon

WORLD

Laurent Fabius, France Foreign Minister

Suspects in Kuwait mosque attack held IS group claimed responsibility for the suicide bombing at mosque on Friday

KUWAIT CITY: Kuwait detained the owner of a car that took a bomber to a mosque to carry out the country’s worst ever militant attack, officials said on Saturday, as thousands calling for national unity turned out to bury some of the 27 killed.

The cabinet announced after an emergency meeting on Friday that all security agencies and police had been placed on alert to confront what it called “black terror”. Militant group IS claimed responsibility for the suicide bombing against 2,000 people praying at the Imam Al Sadeq mosque on Friday, one of three attacks on three continents that day apparently linked to hardline radicals.

In a statement, the information ministry said Kuwait would faced the situation with “unity and solidarity”. It reiterated what it called the government’s strong stance on the freedom of religion and opinion, noting these were rights protected by the constitution.

The interior ministry, which reported the vehicle owner’s arrest, said it was now looking for the driver who vanished shortly after Friday’s blast in Kuwait, which has been spared the rampant violence of neighbouring Iraq and the recent spate of IS bombings of mosques in Saudi Arabia, another neighbour. A security source said “numerous arrests” had been made in connection with Friday’s bombing. At the burial site in the Sulaibikhat district, some waved

MOURNING: A mourner carries a sign during the funeral for the victims of Friday’s bombing at the Al Jafariya cemetery in Suleibikhat, Kuwait on Saturday. – Reuters

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Kuwaiti flags while others bore the large mourning banners, in red, black or green. Crowd chanted slogans. One group of mourners said they had travelled from Qatif in Saudi Arabia where 21 people were killed by an IS group suicide bombing in May. Two Iranian nationals were among those killed, foreign ministry spokeswoman Marzieh Afkham was quoted as saying by Iranian state media on Saturday.

Relatives of seven of those killed wept and prayed over their

shrouded corpses at a mosque on Saturday, where they were waiting to be taken to cities of Najaf and Karbala in Iraq for burial.

“We will cut the evil hand that interferes with our homeland’s security,” Interior Minister Sheikh Mohammed Al Khaled Al Sabah was quoted as saying by state news agency KUNA. Kuwait has stepped up security

N UC L E A R N E G O T I AT I O N S

Differences persist in Iran talks VEINNA: An accord to curb Iran’s nuclear programme remains elusive due to disagreements on fundamental issues, France’s foreign minister said on Saturday just days before the June 30 deadline .

Laurent Fabius spoke to reporters upon arrival in the Austrian capital after top US and Iranian diplomats said hard work was still needed for what could be their final negotiations to bridge

significant differences. “What we want is a robust deal that recognises Iran’s right to civil nuclear power, but guarantees that Iran gives up definitively the nuclear weapon,” Fabius said.

For this there were three “indispensable” conditions, he said: A lasting limitation of Iran’s research and development capacity, rigorous inspections of sites, including military if needed, and

the automatic return of sanctions if Iran violates its commitments.

“These three conditions respect Iran’s sovereignty. They have still not been accepted by everybody, yet they form the key base of the triangle that forms the robust agreement that we want,” he said.

“We have a lot of hard work to do. We have some very tough issues,” US Secretary of State John Kerry said. — Reuters

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to the highest level at state-run oil conglomerate Kuwait Petroleum Corp (KPC) and its affiliates, KUNA also reported. IS group named the bomber as Abu Suleiman Al Muwahed and said on social media that he had targeted the mosque. It did provide details of his nationality. The health ministry said only 40 of the wounded are still in hospitals. — Agencies

AT TA C K O N G A S FA C T O RY

France questions beheading suspect PARIS: French police were grilling a suspected hardliner on Saturday about an attack in which the man displayed his boss’s severed head, in what appeared to be the second militant attack in France this year.

Prime Minister Manuel Valls, who cut short an official trip to South America to rush home, warned France faced more attacks and that Friday’s assault on a gas factory near the second city of Lyon would increase tensions in the country, putting citizens’ resilience “to the test”. No militant group has claimed Friday’s attack.

Suspect Yassin Salhi, a 35-year-

old married father-of-three, was arrested after causing an explosion by driving a delivery van into a warehouse containing bottles of dangerous gas and chemicals at the US-owned Air Products factory in Saint-Quentin-Fallavier, some 40 kilometres from Lyon.

The prosecutor in the case said firefighters overpowered Salhi as he was trying to open acetone bottles in what is believed to have been an attempt to cause a larger explosion. The firefighters then discovered the decapitated body of his 54-year-old boss Herve Cornara -who ran a delivery firm -- near the car, along with a knife. — AFP

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SU N DAY, JUNE 28, 2015

WORLD

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Richard Matt, 49, was

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killed in the upstate town of Malone, less than 10 miles from the Canadian border

NEW YORK: A convicted killer who broke out of a maximumsecurity New York prison three weeks ago was shot dead by authorities on Friday, police said, as they continued to hunt for his fellow escapee.

Richard Matt, 49, was killed in the upstate town of Malone, less than 10 miles (16 kilometres) from the Canadian border, officials said.

New York State Police Superintendent Joseph D’Amico said authorities found Matt near a cabin after he apparently had fired at a passing camper van.

STRICT VIGIL: A law enforcement officer stands along County Route 41 during a search for escaped prisoners south of Malone, New York, on Friday. – Reuters

D’Amico did not say why Matt shot at the vehicle, but The New York Times cited a source as saying he was attempting to carry out a carjacking. “We were able to get into the cabin, where we discovered the smell of gunpowder and realized a weapon had been fired,” D’Amico told reporters.

“As we were doing the ground search in the area, there was movement detected by officers on the ground... A tactical team from Cus-

toms and Border Protection met up with Matt in the woods, challenged him, and he was shot dead

by Border Patrol at that time.”

Officers recovered a 20-gauge shotgun from Matt’s body.

D’Amico said Matt’s fellow escaped killer, 35-year-old David Sweat, was still at large. The men broke out of Clinton Correctional Facility, about 40 miles from Malone, on June 6 in a spectacular, Hollywood-style prison break.

CNN reported that law enforcement authorities have set up a perimeter in which they are searching for Sweat. “There are several leads that are being tracked down as we speak about Mr Sweat and his possible whereabouts,” New York state Governor Andrew Cuomo told reporters. “But we don’t have anything to confirm where Mr Sweat is at this time.”

Power tools The inmates used power tools to cut their way out of their prison cells before dawn on June 6, triggering an intense weeks-long manhunt across the heavily wooded surrounding area. “You never want to see anyone lose

their life,” Cuomo said. “But I would remind people that Mr Matt was an escaped murderer from a state prison. Mr Matt killed two people who we know about. Mr Matt killed his boss in a dispute and dismembered him.”

The audacious escape sparked a huge search involving more than 1,100 personnel backed by sniffer dogs and helicopters to find the men, who had been spotted in several locations in recent days in upstate New York.

Officers found candy wrappers and other items believed to have been linked to the men and reports emerged that a shotgun was missing from a remote cabin.

Two prison workers have been

charged over the brazen breakout, and are accused of smuggling tools and contraband items to the pair in hamburger meat.

Matt and Sweat used the power tools to cut through cell walls and crawled through pipes to emerge from a manhole in the village of Dannemora, home to the sprawling prison.

Matt, six feet (1.83 meters) tall with multiple tattoos, was serving a sentence of 25 years to life for the 1997 kidnapping and dismembering of his former boss in a 27hour ordeal.

He fled to Mexico after the murder and killed another American there, before being sentenced to 20 years and extradited back to New York. Sweat was serving a life sentence without parole for murdering a sheriff’s deputy in New York state in 2002 when he was 22. — AFP S T O R A G E TA N K H I T

Blaze engulfs Aden refinery after Houthis fire missiles ADEN: Yemen’s Houthi fighters fired missiles at storage tanks at an Aden refinery on Saturday, starting a large fire, and 14 people were killed in clashes between the Houthis and Saudi-led forces near the southern port city, witnesses and residents said.

The attack on the refinery in the Buraiqah area sent black smoke billowing into the sky.

After months of conflict, Yemen is suffering from severe fuel shortages and its oil and gas industry has all but ground to a halt. Industry sources said in April that the 150,000 barrels per day refinery had shut its operations and declared force majeure on its imports and exports due to the war.

Eight civilians killed In northern Aden, medical sources reported eight civilians were killed, including a woman and her three children, in random shelling by Houthi fighters on residential areas in the Al Mansoura and Sheikh Othman districts. An Arab military coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been bombing the Houthis for three months to restore Yemen’s exiled government. — Reuters

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WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM SUNDAY, JUNE 28, 2015

MARKE

Logistics sector to put Oman on world trade map Recent years have seen significant developments in the logistics sector to make Oman a key centre for logistics in the world

MUSCAT: Substantial investments in the logistics sector in recent years will help Oman to emerge as a major logistics hub in the world. Given the importance of the sector in the promotion of the national economy, several investments have been made in ports, airports and roads sectors.

This is in line with a strategic plan for the logistics sector which was created in light of the directions of the Ninth Five-Year Development Plan (2016-2020).

The plan was developed after the logistics sector completed its requests for trade and tourism communication requirements, as well as all economic activities linking the Sultanate with Gulf, Arab, Asian and the world through an extensive land transport network of single and dual

paved roads, linking the governorates, the wilayats and villages of the Sultanate.

The Logistics Area in South Al Batinah is one of the areas that will contribute to the development of this sector. Ahmed bin Said Al Azkawi, director of the Logistics Area in South Al Batinah, said the logistics sector is the artery that feeds the other sectors and, in this sense, the importance of the sector is highlighted in diversifying sources of income, directly and indirectly.

Recent years have seen more attention paid to the logistics sector in the Sultanate, given the importance of logistics in the promotion of the national economy, in addition to utilising the geographical location of the Sultanate and infrastructure in ports, airports and road sectors, as well as the secure and stable political climate, which is one of the basic elements needed to make a significant development in the logistics service industry in the Sultanate to become a key centre for logistics in the world.

Indirect approach Al Azkawi pointed out in a statement to Omani News Agency (ONA) that the indirect approach is represented in carrying out the activities of those elements by connecting and supporting shipping, storage and cargo handling operations at the local and international level, which resulted in

the creation of new markets for local products and supports the promotion of the Sultanate as a promising investment destination in different sectors.

He stressed that the importance of the sector is not only limited to the same sector, but extends to the role it plays in supporting other sectors, and on this basis the government is focusing on developing the efficiency of transport and logistics systems, as they have a significant economic dimension.

Logistics Area Al Azkawi praised the Logistics Area in the Governorate of South Al Batinah, which is being developed by Oman Logistics Company, and said this project will complement the projects of the government in strengthening the infrastructure of the logistics sector to meet the trade movement and the increasing volume of investment demand in commercial and industrial areas.

The area is 95 square kilometres in size and will include four main activities dedicated for logistics services, commercial activities, light industries and public services, such as management offices, accommodations and shopping, noting that the area is linked with the highway network being implemented in the Governorates of North and South Al Batinah and will also be linked in the future with train lines. > B4

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ACQUISITION

Meezan Bank to acquire HSBC Bank Oman’s Pakistan operations Times News Service MUSCAT: Meezan Bank has signed an agreement with HSBC Bank Oman to acquire the latter’s branch operation in Pakistan.

HSBC Bank Oman’s operations in Pakistan consist of one branch and gross assets of Pakistan rupees

4.1 billion at the end of the first quarter of 2015, Meezan Bank said in a stock market filing. The acquisition is expected to materialise in the second half of 2015, subject to regulatory approvals.

HSBC Bank Oman decided in 2012 to sell off its India and Pakistan operations. Accordingly,

it signed an agreement to sell its banking business in India to Doha Bank QSC in April last year.

Separately, HSBC Oman announced in November that it was in discussion with Meezan Bank for a possible sale of its entire operations in Pakistan, said the Express Tribune.

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SU N DAY, JUNE 28, 2015

MARKET R E PA I R S

Maintenance work at one of Oman Cement kilns delayed MUSCAT: Oman Cement Company (OCC) said that its maintenance work at one of the kilns with 4,000 tonnes per day production capacity was delayed due to operational difficulties.

“Oman Cements has reported that one of the kiln with 4000 TPD Clinker production capacity has been taken up for a planned maintenance activity, which was to be completed early this month.

However, due to operational difficulties, OCC had to prolong the shutdown,” according to a company disclosure statement.

This is resulting in lower production and sales during the cur-

rent month having an impact on performance of the company during current quarter. Technical teams assisted by external experts are working to resolve the defects.

Oman Cement Company management is taking all possible measures to complete the repairs and maintenance work and restore the normal production at the earliest. - Times News Service

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Topaz eyes expansion into South America A unit of Oman’s Renaissance Services, the firm is looking beyond the current difficulties in the sector caused by the lower oil price, chief executive said

DUBAI: Topaz Energy and Marine is eyeing expansion into South America in the next two years as the Dubai-based oil services firm looks beyond the current difficulties in the sector caused by the lower oil price, its chief executive said.

Servicing companies are suffering as producers and explorers cut back on costs and capital expenditure to cope with oil prices trading around 45 per cent below their June 2014 peak.

Topaz reported an 88 per cent slump in first-quarter net profit, and Chief Executive Rene Kofod-

corruption probe which has seen dozens of high-ranking company officials and politicians questioned over charges including bribery and inflating the value of contracts for personal gain.

Topaz is also aiming to expand its subsea division over the next two years in the Atlantic basin, targeting areas of medium depth, Kofod-Olsen said.

Having said in November it was in talks to acquire two ships to augment its subsea division for delivery in late 2016, KoNEW AVENUES: Topaz Energy and Marine reported an 88 per cent fod-Olsen said the firm subsequently renegotiated its deals slump in first-quarter net profit, and Chief Executive Rene Kofodand would pay significantly Olsen expected earnings to continue to be disappointing through less than envisaged as lower oil the rest of 2015. – Supplied photo prices and cut-backs by firms in new orders had given it a better South America is the main tar- negotiating position.

Olsen expected earnings to conThe company has finance to tinue to be disappointing through get, according to Kofod-Olsen, the rest of 2015. “First half has with the biggest draw being Mex- back its plans, having signed a been very tough for all of us and ico, which is opening up its oil $550 million seven-year loan in the second half will be moderately industry to more international April to refinance existing debt at better but, I think, everyone in the involvement, and Brazil, where a cheaper rate and to back expanindustry should expect that 2015 the firm had previously oper- sion. As for merger and acquisiwill be a bad outlier for the past ated but had pulled out because tion plans, Kofod-Olsen said Toit didn’t have the scale and rela- paz was open to opportunities to many years,” he said.

Despite this, Topaz, a unit of tionships with Petrobras to make build its presence in each region.

He saw further consolidation Oman’s Renaissance Services be- the business work.

“We would go in if the working happening across the industry as lieves it is in a position to weather the storm and take advantage of environment normalises and I be- firms looked to cut costs in the opportunities to expand both its lieve there is a good chance that it current strained operating environment, especially as oil majors fleet and geographical presence will,” he said of Brazil.

State-run Petrobras is em- squeezed their suppliers and beyond the Caspian Sea, the Midbroiled in Brazil’s largest ever servicing firms. - Reuters dle East and West Africa.

ECONOMY

Rio Tinto to invest in Mongolia gold, copper mine ULAN BATOR: Mining firm Rio Tinto has pledged to invest at least $250 million to $300 million in the construction of the underground section of the massive Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine in Mongolia this year, Mongolia’s prime minister has said.

The second phase of construction at the mine is expected to begin this year, Prime Minister

Chimed Saikhanbileg said in an interview, marking progress for the long-stalled $5 billion mine that is expected to boost Mongolia’s economy by a third when it reaches full capacity in 2021.

Saikhanbileg’s comments came during a trip to meet United States political and business leaders in a bid to revive foreign investment in Mongolia after it fell

74 per cent in 2014 as a dispute with Rio Tinto over taxes and cost overruns deterred investors.

US visit In visits to New York and Washington this week, Saikhanbileg, who took office in November, is touting the success of a deal reached with Rio Tinto last month to resume work on the mine.

“Mongolia is back for business,” he said. “This should be one of the hottest destinations for investors.”

During the trip, Saikhanbileg said he met with Vice President Joe Biden, held an event at the US Chamber of Commerce that attracted more than 160 attendees, visited the New York Stock Exchange and held individual meetings with investment firms. - Reuters

GLOBAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Unique Group set to double subsea, offshore business Times News Service MUSCAT: Unique Group, the leading integrated subsea and offshore solution provider, has set in place measures to double its size and global infrastructure by 2019 through capital investment, acquisitions and expansion into key markets.

Unique Group has been operating in Oman since 2010. With a current turnover in excess of $100 millon, the company has restructured its worldwide organisation into five new business units, to capitalise on Unique Group’s current and future market sectors that will further support its business in the Sultanate The first expansion into new sectors is the launch of Unique Group’s range of technically advanced products for Dive Support Vessels (DSVs), the result of three years of research and development and significant investment by the group. As offshore operations move increasingly into deeper and more challenging environments, the DSV market will become significant in Unique Group’s growth.

The business has made three senior appointments to oversee the expansion in key growth areas. Within Unique Group, Mike Jessop has been promoted to

Harry Gandhi. – Supplied photo

global head of diving. The group has also recruited leading figures from within the industry: Andy Doggett, former manager of Teledyne CDL has been brought in to head up the new survey equipment division; and Steve McMillan, former head of diving at McDermott, has been appointed as global HSE and projects director.

Future demand Harry Gandhi, founder and chief excutive officer said: “In the field of oil and gas survey, exploration and oil recovery, the forecast of future demand outweighs current supply levels. It is crucial that the industry does not stand still and that we all prepare for

projected upturns.

“Current market conditions have led some companies, especially smaller ones, to be overcautious and almost come to a standstill, instead of finding new ways to remain competitive and sustainable.

“We have over 200 engineering specialists across six global regions and a streamlined, multidisciplinary offering. We work with the best vendors and ultimately we offer our customers in the offshore and subsea sectors the most cost-effective solutions for their businesses, whether bespoke or off the shelf.

“We are excited to be entering this latest chapter in our history and I am more than confident that we’ll reach our 2019 growth target.

Unique Group is known for its offshore, onshore and subsea engineering expertise, as well as its brands, Hydra and Seaflex, which are world-leading in diving equipment and buoyancy and ballast respectively. The full range of specialist services has been streamlined into five complementary multi-site divisions and rebranded under the Unique Group name.

The company is still led by its founder Harry Gandhi alongside a long-standing management team that includes his son, Sahil Gandhi, as group executive director.

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MARKET FIBRE OPTICS

Oman Broadband unveils connectivity strategy to enhance bands MUSCAT: Oman’s government has shown great interest in broadband sector to enhance the bands and open the door for wider communication services at the different governorates.

Eng. Said bin Abdullah Al Manthri, CEO of Oman Broadband Company (OBC) said that over the past years, the government has approved the national broadband strategy and released many fre-

quencies to enhance the bands.

“Last April, OBC signed an agreement with optic fibre operators to use the optic fibres in the Governorate of Muscat. An agreement was also signed on Tuesday with Salalah Sanitary Drainage Service and OBC will also sign a number of agreements in the industrial and commercial areas outside the Governorate of Muscat for the use of optic fibres soon,”

Eng. Al Manthri said.

He added that OBC currently focuses on the main governorates in the Sultanate. While some projects have been completed, other projects are underway. He affirmed that deployment of optic fibre cables has already started in the wilayat of Madha in the Governorate of Musandam.

He said that the company will start implementing some projects

Credit to private sector rises 9.6% Of the total credit to the private sector through the end of April 2015, the share of the non-financial corporate sector stood at 47.2 per cent

MUSCAT: Credit to the private sector increased by 9.6 per cent to reach OMR15.1 billion at the end of April 2015. Of the total credit to the private sector through the end of April 2015, the share of the non-financial corporate sector stood at 47.2 per cent, closely followed by the household sector, mainly as a result of personal loans, at 45.3 per cent, financial corporations at 5.2 per cent and other sectors made up the remaining 2.3 per cent.

Also, total assets of conventional commercial banks increased by 9.5 per cent to OMR26.5 billion in April 2015 from OMR24.2 billion

one year ago. Of the total assets, credit disbursements accounted for 66.1 per cent and increased by 10.6 per cent at the end of April 2015 to OMR17.5 billion.

Meanwhile, commercial banks’ overall investments in securities declined by 23.2 per cent to OMR2.5 billion at the end of April 2015, from OMR3.3 billion one year ago.

The decline was mainly due to the reduced level of bank investments in CBO CDS, which fell from OMR1.86 billion in April 2014 to OMR0.65 billion in April 2015. Further, investment in government development bonds increased by 17.8 per cent over the year to OMR0.67 billion at the end of April 2015.

Aggregate deposits Beginning in March 2015, the CBO began issuing 91 day government treasury bills, following a long interval. Banks invested OMR385 million in treasury bills (TBs) at the end of April 2015, as commercial bank investments in foreign securities declined 6.9 per cent to OMR528.9 million in April 2015.

Additionally, aggregate deposits held with commercial banks registered an increase of 5.7 per cent to OMR17.8 billion in April 2015, from OMR16.8 billion one

year ago. Government deposits with commercial banks increased by 2.1 per cent to OMR5.2 billion and deposits by public enterprises declined by 24.4 per cent to OMR0.82 billion during the same period. Private sector deposits, which constituted 64.9 per cent of the total deposits with commercial banks, increased by 10.6 per cent to OMR11.5 billion in April 2015 from OMR10.4 billion one year ago.

Sector-wise, the share of households was 49.5 per cent of the total private sector deposits base, followed by non-financial corporations at 27.5 per cent, financial corporations at 20.7 per cent and other sectors at 2.3 per cent.

Of note, Islamic banking entities provided financing of OMR1,265.8 million at the end of April 2015, when compared to OMR611.1 million one year ago.

Total deposits held with Islamic banks and windows also registered a significant rise to OMR847.3 million in April from OMR287.7 million. - ONA

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for optic fibre deployment in the wilayats of Sohar, Al Suwaiq and Al Musannah in the Governorate of North Al Batinah and other areas as well concurrently with the projects implemented by the Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources and the Public Authority for Electricity and Water (PAEW).

The CEO of OBC also pointed out that the government has

pumped huge investments in this sector. At the national broadband strategy, which was unveiled by the Ministry of Transport and Communications, the government has allocated OMR450 million that will be pumped over the upcoming 10 years.

OBC will implement the broadband projects through other financing alternatives and other companies as well and not through

direct finance of these projects by the Government.

Eng. Al Manthri further said that the Ministry of Transport and Communications and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) seek to provide broadband services not only in the cities, but also in rural areas as the remote areas will be covered by other means, such as satellites and wire communications. - ONA

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SU N DAY, JUNE 28, 2015

MARKET BANKER MIDDLE EAST HONOUR

Bank Muscat wins 'Best Bank in Oman' award Times News Service MUSCAT: Bank Muscat, the flagship financial services provider in the Sultanate, has won the Best Bank in Oman award given by Banker Middle East.

Omar Musafir, Chief Officer, UAE Representative Office, received the award at a ceremony held in Dubai.

AbdulRazak Ali Issa, Chief Executive, said: “Bank Muscat is delighted to be chosen once again for the Banker Middle East award which attests the unrivalled position of the bank in Oman. Year on year, the bank adopts new initiatives to stretch its operational excellence. A keen perception of customer requirements enables the bank to remain focused on de-

veloping products and services in line with the current and emerging needs. Stemming from its flagship position, Bank Muscat aims to deliver reliable, dynamic and innovative banking services.”

Driven by robust policies to achieve global best practices, Bank Muscat is focused on strategic initiatives to confront challenges and further increase its market share.

The bank prides itself in its deep understanding of customer needs, offering financial expertise and guidance at all levels.

A multi-award winning organisation, Bank Muscat holds the rare distinction of being consistently voted the ‘Best Bank in Oman’ by all leading local, regional and global institutions.

The Banker Middle East awards

Fixed phone-line user base in Sultanate rises NCSI data shows that more than 6,339,000 mobile phone lines were recorded last month.

Also, the number of active users of the fixed broadband Internet service increased to more than 3.6 million subscribers

ROBUST DEMAND: Number of the post-paid phone lines increased to 301,671 lines compared to 298,316 lines recorded at the end of last April. — Times file picture

MUSCAT: Total number of fixed phone lines users reached 397,179 compared to the figures recorded at the end of last May, which stood at 391,783 lines, showing an increase of 5.9 per cent, the latest statistics issued by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) indicate.

The data further showed that more than 6,339,000 mobile phone lines were recorded last month. Also, the number of active users of the fixed broadband Internet service increased to more than 3.6 million subscribers.

The pre-paid fixed phone lines

(fixed phone cards) recorded an increase of 24.1 per cent to reach 41,023 lines compared to 38,779 lines recorded at the end of last April. The number of the postpaid phone lines also increased to 301,671 lines compared to 298,316 lines recorded at the end of last April.

Public phones The total number of the public phones stabilised at 6,801 while the lines of integrated service digital network channels witnessed a slight decrease.

The total subscribers of mobile

phone lines reached 6,339,186 at the end of last May with an increase of 2.3 per cent compared to the figures recorded last April that reached 6,282,196 subscribers.

The largest number of users was recorded in the category of the subscribers of the prepaid mobile phones who reached 5,789,171 compared to the number of subscribers recorded at the end of last April that stood at 5,735,420 with an increase rate of 2.2 per cent.

The total number of the internet service subscribers increased to 195,549 at the end of last May compared to the figures recorded

last April, which reached 194,321 subscribers despite the decrease of the total number of Internet users on the mobile phones.

On the other hand, subscribers of the broadband fixed internet service that includes the ADSL service and the leased line (WiMAX) recorded an increase of 8.8 per cent to reach 192,626 users last May; compared to the figures recorded last April, which reached 191,377 subscribers.

The active users of the mobile phone broadband internet service reached 2,998,835 with an increase rate of 3.6 per cent. — ONA

recognise top performers in the banking industry and continue to set a benchmark for successful banking and financial institutions in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The award honours the very best of the region’s banks and financial institutions – key players in laying the foundations for a prosperous future for the MENA economies.

AbdulRazak Ali Issa, chief executive. — Supplied picture

ECONOMY

Greece's Tsipras calls for bailout referendum ATHENS/BRUSSELS: Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras called a referendum on austerity demands from foreign creditors on Saturday, rejecting an “ultimatum” from lenders and putting a deal that could determine Greece’s future in Europe to a risky popular vote. The surprise call marked the most dramatic twist yet in five-month negotiations between Greece and its lenders, plunging the cash-strapped nation into uncharted waters and risking a default and capital controls as hopes for an aid agreement faded.

After a week of acrimonious talks in Brussels, Tsipras dismissed lenders’ proposals as “blackmail” before flying to Athens to huddle with ministers.

After midnight, he appeared on television to announce plans for a referendum on July 5.

“Our responsibility is for the future of our country. This responsibility obliges us to respond to the ultimatum through the sovereign will of the Greek people,” Tsipras said in a televised address to the nation. The 40-year-old prime minister said he would respect the outcome of the vote.

But he further argued that the lenders demands “clearly violate European social rules and fundamental rights”, would asphyxiate Greece’s flailing economy and aimed at the “humiliation of the entire Greek people”.

Government ministers emerging from the cabinet meeting said they were confident Greeks would vote no and reject the bailout demands, leaving open the question as to whether the country had other options beside leaving the euro in such an event.

The referendum call also throws the country’s tottering banking system into focus, though a deputy minister said there were no plans to impose capital controls and banks would open as normal on Monday. “The risk of Grexit has increased considerably, from previously 20 percent to at least 50 percent,” Wolfgango Piccoli of Teneo Intelligence said in a research note.” Avoiding capital controls next week will be very difficult, if not impossible.” Soon after the address in the early hours of the morning, lines of up to 10 people were seen forming to withdraw cash from automated teller machines in some parts of Athens.

Anti-establishment protesters

Small groups of anti-establishment protesters threw petrol bombs and stones at police in an Athens neighbourhood where protests are common.

The euro zone had offered to release billions in frozen aid if Greece accepted and implemented pension and tax reforms that are anathema to its leftist government, elected in January on a promise to end austerity.

Without the bailout funds, Athens is due to default on 1.6 billion euros in repayments to the International Monetary Fund on Tuesday, pushing Greece closer to being forced out of the euro, causing chaos for its economy and financial markets. A default would not necessarily lead to Athens leaving the 19-nation single currency area, but is expected to pave the way for it, worrying European leaders and policy makers who fear it would undermine the principle that membership is irrevocable. - Reuters

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'Project studies completed'

He also said that all studies related to the project were completed earlier, and that the execution stage has started and consists of five phases.

He noted that the first phase includes a land port, which is the nucleus of the project and will play a central role in facilitating the movement of goods in local markets and export and import activities, adding that the box also

contains stores, a distribution yard, a centre for truck services, restaurants, offices and management buildings.

The initial indications to the requests of investment that have been received from both inside and outside the Sultanate show that the area has already begun in gaining its targeted economic position, in addition to conducting a number of meetings with

investors from the Sultanate and abroad, explaining to them the importance of the area and the added-value logistics services that will be provided, noting that details of investments will be posted on the company’s website.

He said that there are many job opportunities, including specialised areas such as operation management, logistics services, and information systems. — ONA

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ROUND-UP

‘Extra Large’ benefits add to Corolla appeal

GENEROUS CONTRIBUTION

This exciting campaign will run until August 5.

KR to donate 2,000 Ramadan hampers

Weekly raffle draw will be held until August 9, on all Sundays

MUSCAT: To many enthusiasts in the automotive industry, the 11th Generation of the world famous Toyota Corolla is no less than an icon. Officially crowned as the ‘Middle East Car of the Year 2014’, the Corolla has a legendary reputation for providing low operating costs, high comfort levels, unyielding reliability along with outstanding safety. All of this is topped up by the delightful resale value that a Corolla commands, even after years of use, says a press release.

Now the Corolla is being offered with ‘Extra Large’ benefits. “What that means for you as a customer is that the biggest excitement has returned with Toyota Corolla now being available with a host of exciting model-specific benefits," said a company spokesperson.

These include a service package for up to three years/30,000km service (whichever is earlier) covering three services at 10,000km service interval (for petrol models based on normal operating conditions), insurance for one year (Oman only), 1st year of registration and 1,000 litres of fuel. In lieu of the above, customers can choose to avail of the cash gift of OMR500.

These benefits are model specific and may vary accordingly.

To top it all, every Toyota customer gets a gift voucher and a

chance to take part in an amazing raffle which has nine units of 16YM Camry GL Executive to be won.

This exciting campaign will run until August 5. Benefits are applicable for all purchases except those made by government organisations and ministries. Weekly raffle will be held until August 9, on all Sundays, except July 19. Customers will be eligible for raffle only upon taking delivery of the vehicle during the campaign period after completing necessary formalities and not against booking.

“The earlier one buys and enters the raffle, the higher are the chances of winning,” the spokesperson adds.

Indeed, it is a good time to own a global best-seller about which it is said that, “The name ‘Corolla’ represents the peak of Toyota’s renowned quality engineering, design evolution and value-for-money focus. This is unmatched in its class. That said, customers are to be thanked for their faith in Toyota and for making it a best-seller in the region.”

Making a strong design statement with its unique visual signature, the Corolla signifies Toyota’s brand evolution, “The Corolla’s

design theme combines clean lines and balanced proportions to give it an immediate visual impact.

"The design lends itself to an even more spacious cabin that offers refined comfort and classleading legroom with abundant storage space. It tapers at the front and rear of the vehicle to help emphasise the wheel arches and wheels-to-the-corner stance,” adds the spokesperson.

The Corolla offers choices between compact, lightweight engines that deliver exhilarating performance and outstanding fuel economy. As explained by the spokesperson, “Customers can choose a never-before, powerful 2.0 L Engine with maximum power of 143 HP (Net). The second option is a potent 1.6 L engine delivering 121 HP (Net).”

Engineered to provide high active and passive safety standards, the Corolla also offers enhanced pedestrian impact protection.

The adoption of numerous energy absorbing components offer significantly improved pedestrian protection in the event of a frontal impact.

For occupant protection, impact-absorbing structures have

IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE

Ford F-150 earns top spot in AAA Green Car Guide

MUSCAT: Ford’s powerfully built tough Ford F-150 is performing exceptionally well the world over to make an impressive mark. And that performance is adding to its growing tally of stars.

Recently the Ford F-150 led its segment as the greenest truck in the 2015 AAA Green Car Guide. F-150 is part of Ford F-Series, America’s best-selling full-size truck for 38 straight years and America’s best-selling vehicle for 33 straight years, says a press release.

In Oman the F-150 5.0-litre V8 with twin independent variable camshaft timing has improved power and efficiency, delivering 385 horsepower and 387 lb.-ft. of torque. Smart engineering enhancements such as a new longrunner intake manifold, revised intake cam duration and new pulse-separated exhaust manifolds help raise towing capability to a maximum 11,100 pounds.

The F-150 features several innovative and smart technologies, including smart trailer tow module with dynamic hitch assist, classexclusive 360-degree camera with split-view display, high-wattage outlets, LED spotlights, blind spot information System with crosstraffic alert, lane-keeping system, twin panel moonroof, stowable bed extender and more.

The smart trailer tow module shows the driver which lights on a trailer connected to the truck aren’t working, so the driver or a passenger doesn’t have to exit the vehicle and walk around the trailer to discover lights are blown. Dynamic Hitch Assist is a new rearview camera feature that adds a dynamic line based on steering wheel angle in the display to help customers line up truck and trailer without requiring a spotter or having to exit the vehicle.

The available 360-degree camera with split-view display uses four exterior cameras to give the driver a bird’s-eye view of up to seven feet surrounding the F-150 to assist in parking, manoeuvring in tight spots and navigating narrow roads and trails at low speeds.

The high-wattage outlets — 400-watt, 110-volt outlets in the cab allow drivers to easily charge corded tools, battery chargers or mobile devices on-site or while in transit. The LED spotlights on sideview mirrors provide powerful, durable and bright lighting around the truck exterior.

The Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert: Available BLIS uses radar sensors in the taillamps to monitor areas that may not be visible to the driver. The sensors trigger a warning

light in the sideview mirrors to indicate another vehicle is in a blind spot if the driver is attempting to change lanes. These same sensors can detect a vehicle coming down an aisle when the driver is slowly backing out of a parking space.

The available lane-keeping is designed to help prevent a driver from drifting outside of the intended driving lane. The system automatically detects the left- or right-hand road lane markings using a camera mounted between the windshield and interior rearview mirror. A vibration in the steering wheel is used to alert the driver.

The system can also provide steering torque to help guide the vehicle back into the lane if needed.

The Ford F-150 is completely redesigned, with a high-strength, military-grade, aluminium-alloy body coupled with a high-strength steel frame, making it nearly 700 pounds lighter and more efficient.

Ford vehicles are known the world over for their exceptional safety, luxury and unsurpassed technological superiority.

Ford ploughs in millions of dollars into R&D each year to ensure that every Ford offers maximum safety and motoring pleasure for its customers.

In Oman, Ford vehicles are brought to you by Arabian Car Marketing Co.

been adopted for the interior part of the pillar areas to ensure cabin safety.

To help reduce the impact of a collision on occupants, the Corolla is equipped with SRS airbags for the driver and front passenger.

In addition to the above, the Corolla also features other class-leading features such as LED projector headlamps with integrated-type daylight running lights, smart entry system + start/stop button, new audio system with USB+AUX, 3.5’’ TFT multi-information display, retractable outer mirrors with turn signals, audio + mid controls on steering wheel, cruise control and moonroof, amongst others.

All specifications listed above are standard Toyota equipment.

Safety kit (fire extinguisher, warning triangle, tyre pressure gauge and first aid kit) is a dealer installed non Toyota item provided on Toyota models as standard equipment.

In Oman, Toyota outstanding product quality is supported by the nationwide parts and service network of Saud Bahwan Automotive.

No wonder then that today, Toyota is one of the most trusted and wellknown brands.

MUSCAT: As Oman ushers in the holy month of Ramadan, the Khimji Ramdas Group once again steps forward to spread the season’s message of sharing through generous contributions to society. The conglomerate is offering 2,000 Ramadan hamper boxes to assist NGOs in their mission to aid and nurture communities across the Sultanate, says a press release.

Commenting on KR’s Ramadan contributions, Anil Khimji said: “At the Khimji Ramdas Group we have a very strong corporate social ethic that emphasises giving back to society and giving generously especially during Ramadan.

For this is a time of sharing and caring, a time to come together in the spirit of brotherhood and family. We are happy to say that the company’s philanthropic outreach programmes such as the Ramadan gift boxes have been touching the lives of thousands across Oman.”

This year Khimji Ramdas will be working with a number of charities to distribute hamper boxes containing daily staples to needy families across the Sultanate.

The first batch of packages will be shared with Al Noor Association for the Blind – Sohar, Oman Association for the Disabled – Muscat, Oman Association for the Disabled – Ibri. KR’s Ramadan boxes will reach thousands across Oman

Khimji Ramdas Group's altruistic spirit gains renewed impetus during the season of Ramadan when numerous charity drives — such as the Ramadan gift boxes and similar initiatives — are organised

from Muscat to Sohar and Ibri.

Fuelled by a strong sense of social consciousness and a passion for the local community, KR has spearheaded numerous charity outreach programmes to help enrich the lives of local communities, particularly deserving members of Omani society. The company’s altruistic spirit gains renewed impetus during the season of Ramadan when numerous charity drives — such as the Ramadan gift boxes and similar initiatives — are organised.

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SUN DAY, JUNE 28, 2015

ROUND-UP Nissan Patrol: The complete package Nissan Patrol comes with refreshed styling enhancements that add more style to its already impressive ‘go anywhere’ versatility, technology and great comfort

MUSCAT: Meticulously engineered for over 60 years, the Patrol is Nissan’s flagship SUV model with a rich heritage and passionate following in the Middle East that dates back to the 1950s. Housed under Suhail Bahwan Automobiles in Oman, the Nissan Patrol comes with refreshed styling enhancements that adds more style to its already impressive ‘go anywhere’ versatility, technology and comfort, says a press release.

Nissan Patrol enhancements The Nissan Patrol comes with a new front bumper and new vigorous and muscular front grille pattern with chrome. New 20” machining cut alloy wheels, LED headlamps with day time run-

ning light and pop-up headlamp washer with new LED rear combination lamp and roof rails add to the range of new features. The Nissan Patrol also possess a 3rd generation around view monitor with parking assist display and back-up collision intervention (BCI) which alerts the driver when a moving object is detected behind the vehicle when in reverse mode.

Owner’s pride “The mighty Patrol offers a magnificent drive on and off the road.

There is a lot of ground clearance and solid protection for vitals underneath. Low-range gearing is great for slower four-wheel-driving, while the huge ground clearance makes it a formidable tool,” said Salim Hamad Al Ghufaili, a proud Nissan Patrol owner.

“Just getting inside reinforces how big the Patrol is. The side steps don’t only come in handy, for many, they will be necessary to make the ascent to the driver’s seat. Needless to say, you get a decent view. The broad collection of controls and buttons are well laidout and storage areas are plentiful.

The cabin is wide, too, something that helps with three people across the back. And those in the middle row will be blessed with generous legroom,” he added.

“Nissan introduces schemes and offers on their vehicles making it convenient for customers to buy vehicles at any time of the year.

The Nissan Patrol too comes with attractive insurance, registration

ray of standard features including 8-way power driver’s seat, cruise control, 7-inch LCD screen, dualzone climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels with full-size spare, side steps, front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera and keyless entry and start.

and service options this Ramadan.

Nissan service is equally good; I have had no complaints so far.

They are on-time and professional with delivery of vehicles,” Al Ghufaili concluded.

Exclusive Ramadan offer Scratch and Win (two assured gifts): Customers buying the Nissan Patrol will receive a ‘Scratch & Win’ card which will entitle them to two assured gifts comprising of Free service up to Lifetime of the car (minimum assured 1 year/ 10,000 km PMS) and Free fuel up to OMR1000 (minimum assured of OMR50) Cash Gifts: Customers will also walk away with assured cash gifts up to OMR1,000 (minimum assured of OMR500) Unlimited benefits: Nissan assures customers free insurance, free registration, 6 years’ extended warranty, easy financing options, a loan term up to eight years and attractive interest rates.

Additional Ramadan highlight of 2015: This year Nissan has introduced another exciting line up of Ramadan benefit for their valued customers.

Customers who already own a Nissan model and are making a second purchase will receive additional incentives from SBA where customers enjoy 10,000km additional service, they will receive special interest privilege card and also be eligible for any trade-in benefits.

Special EMI rate: Customers can avail special EMI rate starting from OMR269 on the Nissan Patrol Grand raffle draw prize The grand raffle draw from Nissan is being held in association with Al Wisal and Merge FM where participants can enter the draw to win a sleek Nissan Altima (2 vehicles to be won); just SMS <Nissan Altima> to 90448. The lucky winner can walk away with a brand new Nissan Altima.

Easy financing options SBA designed the Ramadan scheme to add to the pleasure and convenience of owning a Nissan model and ensure hassle and worry-free driving at all times. Nissan customers can also avail easy financing option of a loan term up to 8 years with attractive interest rates from Bank Muscat. Flexible EMI’s can also be tailor made for any individual requirement from in-house Auto Finance team.

Expression of luxury The vehicle is an expression of richly crafted luxury truly worthy of a flagship. If the unmistakably bold exterior design invites you with its powerful and modern lines, the super cockpit design of the well-appointed interior provides drivers with a reinvigorating driving atmosphere. Fine-textured, soft leather seats are fitted with power and memory functions.

Other luxurious features include Climate-controlled front seats, Power lift gate, Leather-wrapped, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel with cruise, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, audio system and Navigation controls.

Mighty Patrol Patrol derives power-train efficiency equipped with 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode introduced on the XE grade with a combination of leather/ wood steering wheel. The Nissan Patrol is now available with new exterior colours - Grey Metallic and Pure White Pearl – as well as a new Tan interior colour.

There is no shortage of comforts on board the new Nissan Patrol with all grades featuring an ar-

Impeccable safety features The Patrol includes Nissan’s world-renowned Safety Shield concept that ‘vehicles help protect people’. The revised brake system, along with state-of-the-art Safety Technologies make it the safest-ever SUV in its class. It has employed state-of-the-art safety technologies that help the driver maintain comfortable driving, to recover from dangerous conditions and minimise the damage when a collision is unavoidable.

PHOENIX POWER IPO

GET-TOGETHER

OHI Leo Burnett delivers historical success

ahlibank organises Iftar for customers SOHAR: In celebration of the holy month of Ramadan, ahlibank recently hosted an Iftar event for their customers at Crowne Plaza Sohar. The event aimed to bring together the bank’s management team, staff and customers; and reaffirm the bank’s commitment to understand customer needs and exceed their expectations, says a press release.

Speaking of the event, Said Al Hatmi, GM and head of Finance at ahlibank said: “We are delighted to have everyone here to share in our this Iftar gathering, as it reminds us of how strong the ahlibank family is, and how important it is for us to continue to work together in order so as to achieve more in the years to come.”

Lloyd Maddock, CEO of ahlibank, said: “As we mark the blessed days of this holy month, we hosted this dinner to reiterate our appreciation to our customers and recognise their continuous support. We would not be able to arrive at where we are today without the trust and support of our valued customers.”

“The event also gave the management an opportunity to meet the bank’s customers first hand.

We look forward to organising many more events like this in the near future as we build our customer base and introduce more products and services,” he added. ahlibank has lined up a series of social, cultural and religious activities to mark the holy month of Ramadan.

MUSCAT: OHI Leo Burnett, Oman’s leading marketing and advertising communications agency, has delivered historical success in working partnership with the stakeholders involved in the Phoenix Power IPO. Collaborating closely with a number of entities involved in the transaction, OHI Leo Burnett created a compelling 360 degree marketing campaign and executed it to pitch perfection to produce remarkable success in the long annals of IPO transactions in Oman, says a press release.

“There were significant amount of challenges in the IPO communication that we tackled. From the scepticism surrounding the marketing conditions, to timing the issue to close before the advent of Ramadan, along with the lead manager and the client we planned the entire communications rollout like clockwork, putting together a robust marketing communication strategy that involved multiple communication vehicles including print, PR, radio, digital and events. We are proud of the success, and thank all stakeholders, specifically Bank Muscat Investment Banking team, Phoenix Power and the regulators,” said Narayan Iyer, general manager, OHI Leo Burnett.

The total offer size of OMR56.3 million was the biggest in Oman this year.

Speaking of what ensures success of such IPO transactions,

ACADEMICS

MANAGEMENT TEAM

ISD organises excellence award ceremony MUSCAT: Indian School Darsait (ISD) organised academic excellence award ceremony in the school auditorium recently. Abdul Rahim Kasim, president, school management committee, was the chief guest on the occasion.

The programme started with a prayer song followed by the traditional lighting of the lamp. Dr Sridevi P. Thashnath, principal welcomed the chief guest and other dignitaries to the function.

She lauded the achievements of the students and the support of their parents and the untiring efforts of the teachers for making the school reach the pinnacle of success. She thanked the school management committee for the support and encouragement being rendered to all activities of the school, says a press release.

The chief guest gave away gold medals and certificates to the toppers of Class XII Board Examination (Science and Commerce stream) held in March and April 2015, second and third toppers, subject toppers and A1 achievers in all subjects (Classes X and XII).

Dr Amsa Parambil, vice president,

Srikanth Viswanathan, director of Planning & Strategy and associate general manager, OHI Leo Burnett said, “IPO marketing is one of the most challenging tasks for a communications agency, as there is very little leeway in terms of delivery timelines or lack of consistency in the tone of messaging. The agency needs to delve into acute planning of the budget and have the creative firepower to develop a compelling idea around the investment case. Following that, you need to have a strong and compelling story that you can hold confidently through the IPO period and one that can be translated into multiple channels while still engaging the audience. What’s more, the issue marketing is divided between sophisticated institutional investors, and the common investors who look at the investment highlights very differently.”

Narayan added, “IPO marketing has evolved into a specialisation, and rightly so. We have a unique advantage of having worked on

school management committee did the honours for the meritorious students in Classes XI and IX while Biju Samuel, Convener, SMC, felicitated the A1 achievers in all subjects in Class VIII whereas Christopher Joe, Member, SMC did the honours for the toppers in Class VII and Jaikish Pavithran, Member, SMC gave away the mementos to the A1 winners in Class VI. Apart from it, the head of the institution presented principal’s honours award and merit awards to those who secured 90 per cent

and above in the annual examinations (Classes XI and XII) and those who topped in monthly contests in General Knowledge and Spelling Bee. Nikhila Anilkumar, member, SMC felicitated the staff who played an active role for making ‘ISD Resonance’- a musical night with violin maestro, Balabhaskar, a great success. Leena Francis, vice principal, proposed the vote of thanks and expressed her appreciation for the parents and teachers who helped the children achieve greater heights.

the largest number of capital marketing transactions by far, but that only makes it even more challenging, as we are constantly working to better our delivery. It’s often the unassuming elements such as the prospectus or application forms, or the website that test the skill sets in a campaign like this. One needs to be committed through the IPO period with resources and time, and ensure that we are on top of the game, advising and directing the client in doing the right thing at the right time.”

“It helps to be part of the Leo Burnett network as we are able to reach out to regional media with ease either for advertising, or specialised PR. What’s more, the strength of our Arabic team comes to the fore as they understand technical details of such complex financial matters, which become critical during the times. It is indeed a privilege for us to have a strong team that puts the client and the project before themselves during these

Collaborating closely with a number of entities involved in the transaction, OHI Leo Burnett created a compelling 360 degree marketing campaign and executed it to pitch perfection to produce remarkable success in the long annals of IPO transactions in Oman

projects,” Narayan added.

The success of this transaction adds another feather in the cap of OHI Leo Burnett. Earlier last year, the agency delivered success on the twin IPOs of Al Batinah and Al Suwadi Power, another first in the history of IPO transactions in Oman, delivering combined success for the two companies simultaneously. Subsequently, the agency worked with the Ministry of Finance.

INTERACTIVE SESSION

OIFC appoints senior officials MUSCAT: Oman Investment & Finance Co (OIFC) has appointed recently two new members in the senior management team, Deputy CEO, Tahir Salim Al Amri, and GM-Business Development, Ahmed Said Tabouk.

Tahir is an experienced treasury and finance professional. He brings in a rich working experience of more than 15 years in the Ministry of Finance in senior positions and is also on the board of several public and private entities. Ahmed has wide experience in marketing & technology management with number of business modules, with more than 13 years of local and regional experience, says a press release.

“These appointments are considered crucial for the effective implementation of the recent strategies, which were set aiming to reinforce the ground for pursuing future phases as far the company’s development is concerned. Today, OIFC is looking forward to materialise some of its development plans,” said Eng. Ahmed Al Subhi, chairman.

Towell holds NLP personality development workshop MUSCAT: Towell Construction & Co. conducted a NLP personality development workshop for its managers and senior staff at the Towell Farm House in Seeb, recently. The workshop was conducted by internationally accredited NLP Trainer, Hemant Joshi who visited from Bahrain on invitation, says a press release.

NLP or Neuro-linguistic has been one of the most breathtaking innovations in the field of transforming human beliefs, habits and behaviour. The workshop covered various aspects such as using sensory representations for accessing positive mental resources, changing belief systems, regulating thought patterns and

effective goal setting. The interactive workshop involved learning various mental processes and turned out to be a rejuvenating event for the participants.

Joshi, director of Corporate Services at A. A. Nass & Sons Co. W.L.L. Bahrain and director of Nass Corporation BSC; is a member of the Society of Neuro Linguistic Programming, USA. He has conducted numerous workshops over the past 10 years for institutions and professionals from diverse backgrounds as community service projects, on topics such as productivity enhancement, negotiation skills, time management, stress management, teenage transformation.

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Bank Sohar picks credit card promotion winners With this promotion, Bank Sohar has introduced a rewarding way to shop using any of its Excel Classic, Gold, Platinum, Internet or Infinite Credit Cards

MUSCAT: As a part of its recently held Al Mumayaz Saving Scheme monthly draw celebration in Al Khaboura, Bank Sohar also conducted the first of three draws of its recently launched ‘Cash in on your spends’ credit card promotion.

The draw, which was conducted recently, saw 20 Bank Sohar Credit Card customers win cash prizes worth up to OMR300 each, says a press release.

The VIP client gathering for the fourth Al Mumayaz Saving Scheme Monthly Draw event,

which played host to the credit card promotion draw, was held at the Al Rafahya Hall in Al Khaboura under the patronage of Sheikh Saif bin Muhanna bin Said Al Hinai, Wali of Al Khaboura.

Representing Bank Sohar at the event were R. Narasimhan, DGM and head of Retail Banking, Khamis Masoud Al Rahbi, AGM of Branches, and Abdul Jalil Baqer Al Ajmi, senior branch manager of Al Khaboura branch, together with other senior members of the bank and branch managers, who welcomed the chief guest and the bank’s VIP customers from the area.

Highlighting on the recently introduced promotion, Narasimhan commented, “Our ‘Cash in on your spends promotion’ was intro-

duced as part of our ongoing commitment to provide value-added services to our customers and continually improve their overall banking experience.

“Introducing promotions such as these not only help highlight the advantages of using Bank Sohar Excel Credit Cards when making purchases, but also ensures that it remains a rewarding experience for our customers.”

With this promotion, Bank Sohar introduced a rewarding way to shop using any of its Excel Classic, Gold, Platinum, Internet or Infinite Credit Cards. For every minimum purchase of OMR50, either through Point of Sale (POS) or over the Internet, customers get a chance to enter into a monthly draw. Each draw will see 20 cus-

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tomers win cash prizes worth up to OMR300 each, and with three draws in total, the promotion will see 60 winners receive cash prizes totalling up to OMR18,000 once the promotion comes to a close end of July 2015. This draw was the first of these three draws, with the following two to follow in the coming two months.

“On behalf of the Bank, I would like to congratulate each of the winners and wish all our customers the best of luck in our upcoming draws,” added Narasimhan.

Alongside the ‘Cash in on your spends’ special promotion, Bank Sohar Excel Credit Cards also provide an array of other benefits to customers including travel insurance, purchase protection, zero lost card liability, free priority pass and online shopping security via verified by visa and more.

Bank Sohar credit cards are also accepted worldwide for making payments and can also be used for cash withdrawals at more than 800,000 ATMs worldwide.

As such, customers can use their credit cards while making purchases, whether they are in Oman or abroad. Together with the bank’s best-in-class services, this latest service will add to the appeal of Bank Sohar credit cards.

C O R P O R AT E S U P P O R T

Daleel Petroleum signs pact with MoE MUSCAT: Daleel Petroleum recently signed an agreement with the Ministry of Education (MoE) for being the representative of International Programme Office (Globe Programme). The agreement supports two main programmes; Earth Day and Globe Africa Project ‘Roof of Africa’, Mount Kilimanjaro.

The agreement was signed at the Ministry of Education by Mustafa bin Ali bin Abdullatif, undersecretary at the Ministry of Education for Administrative and Financial Affairs and Eng. Fahmy bin Hamed Al Musharfy, chief planning officer at Daleel Petroleum. The occasion was also attended by senior manag-

ers along with officials from both sides, says a press release.

The cooperation between Daleel Petroleum and the Ministry of Education supports and nurtures the community in different aspects of education. The partnership between the Ministry of Education and Daleel Petroleum aims to support Globe events which provide scientific knowledge-sharing platforms and activities for students and teachers across the Sultanate.

Daleel Petroleum has built a very good foundation of ever more efficient production, use of latest technology, ethical business standards and social responsibility.

LUXURY SUV

Lincoln Navigator built for enhanced performance MUSCAT: Lincoln Motor Company has redesigned its approach to offer customers numerous moments of luxury and memorable driving experiences.

Across its range a rich and highquality fitment in areas like interiors, technologies and features promote exclusiveness that is soon becoming a hallmark of the brand.

In the case of the 2015 Lincoln Navigator — it is a fresh interpretation of the classic vehicle that created the full-size luxury SUV segment, says a press release.

In Oman, Lincoln vehicles are brought to you by Arabian Car Marketing Co. With a new EcoBoost engine, refreshed exterior design and enhanced interior appointments, the new Lincoln Navigator offers a compelling combination of power and refinement along with outstanding passenger room, towing capability, ride and handling and fuel economy.

Exterior design changes are accentuated by the execution of Lincoln’s split-wing grille. The more refined appearance complements

enhanced power and hauling capabilities that Navigator customers demand. Enhancements to the interior include luxurious leather and additional customer-focused technologies such as SYNC with MyLincoln Touch.

The sleek front end includes a newly designed hood, and the back end features a power liftgate. Navigator wears jewel-like daytime running lights, as well as high-intensity discharge adaptive headlamps with LED accents. A total of 222 LEDs illuminate the exterior and give Navigator a distinct personality.

Under the hood of the new Lincoln Navigator is a 3.5-litre EcoBoost engine that delivers outstanding power on demand while also providing best-in-class fuel economy. The EcoBoost formula of turbocharging and direct fuel injection creates a smoother torque curve than larger-displacement V8 engines.

Interior quietness The new Navigator achieves improved interior quietness and

scores a higher articulation index rating — a measure of how easy it is to hear a conversation — courtesy of nearly two dozen vehicle upgrades. Bumper to bumper, roof to floor, the 2015 Navigator was built with a comfortable passenger experience in mind. Acoustic laminated glass called SoundScreen, enhanced carpet, headliner and insulated door and floor panels com-

bine to create a quieter interior.

Designed to seat up to eight, Navigator offers second-row options that include two captain’s chairs with or without a centre console, or a fold-flat bench. Due in part to Navigator’s patented independent rear suspension, true fold-flat, PowerFold third-row seats enable standard-wheelbase and extended-wheelbase versions

SUMMER PROMOTION

TAC gives away Mazda6 to winner of ‘Change to Bridgestone’ campaign MUSCAT: Tyre major Bridgestone and Towell Auto Centre successfully concluded the summer campaign ‘Change to Bridgestone’. Amongst the prizes were free tyres and free oil change and a chance to win a grand prize in Mazda6 2.0L. The offer was open from April 1 up to May 31 at Tyre Care Plus outlets and First Stop stores as well as at authorised dealers. The lucky winner to drive away the splendid car was Abdul Rahimn Said Khamis Said Al Aamri, says a press release.

The announcement was made recently at the Towell Auto Group Head office, Azaiba. The draw was conducted in Bridgestone Truck Tyre centre, Ghala in the presence of an official from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Dream come true “I am thrilled beyond imagination. Winning a grand prize is like a dream come true, and a Mazda6 makes it even better,” said Abdul Rahimn. “TAC has always offered good service and has been of great support when it came to our automotive needs. The Change to Bridgestone campaign has been running successfully for quite some years. Every year I would have my fingers crossed. I have turned lucky this time around.”

Encouraging customers to change to one of the most reli-

able, durable and quality tyre brand, TAC offered various deals on purchase of Bridgestone tyres through their Change to Bridgestone campaign. Cash purchase of 04 Tyres of PSR, 4WD and LVR tyres entitled every customer to be a winner through scratch and win offer with exciting prizes like free tyres and free oil change.

Keeping in mind the time between oil changes, the free oil change coupons are redeemable until September 30. The grand prize that came in the form of a

Mazda6 2.0 further added to the excitement of the campaign.

“Our customers have shown continuous patronage and have placed utmost faith in our services,” said Oommen John, AGM Bridgestone Tyre division at Towell Auto Centre.

“It is during summers that we see customers spending on tyres as well as paying close attention to the service aspect of their vehicles too. We decided this was definitely the best time to extend some hearty rewards as our way of

showing appreciation.

“Bridgestone is one the topselling tyres. We have been chosen as the Top brand in Oman recently. Hence we coupled the very best in tyres with generous gifts, introducing a variety of prizes as well as a truly splendid grand raffle draw for this summer. The thrill and happiness that we witness amongst our customers when we announce the names of the winners is what motivates us to keep going and serve them better,” he added.

to deliver segment-leading cargo volume behind the third row.

An available Control Trac fourwheel-drive system enhances traction on slippery surfaces, helps improve handling on dry roads and enables off-road capability. Navigator’s six-speed automatic transmission includes Lincoln SelectShift, which allows the driver to manually control gears if desired.

Helping make the 2015 model the best-handling Navigator ever is the addition of standard electric power-assisted steering.

The system allows for more consistent and precise control of the vehicle through a range of speeds, while simultaneously making it easier to manoeuvre at low speeds and to park.

The Lincoln Drive Control option offers continuously controlled damping, a technology applied to the suspension that monitors multiple vehicle sensors and road conditions every two milliseconds and adjusts suspension needs accordingly.

Navigators equipped with fourwheel drive offer driver-friendly

hill descent control, along with standard hill start assist. With hill start assist, a vehicle parked on a slope with a grade of five degrees or more remains stationary for up to two seconds after the driver releases the brake pedal, eliminating forward or backward roll before acceleration.

Also standard on Select package models is Nivomat, a load-levelling system that raises the rear end of a loaded Navigator to optimum ride height for improved handling.

The mechanical levelling system helps reduce uneven wear on the tyres and helps maintain better vehicle aerodynamics for improved fuel efficiency.

SYNC with MyLincoln Touch is standard equipment. The driver connect system allows drivers to use voice-activated or touch screen controls to make phone calls, play music, manage the navigation system or set cabin temperature. The system includes a 4.2inch LCD screen in the instrument cluster, an 8-inch touch screen in the centre stack and traditional knob controls for easy operation.

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SU N DAY, JUNE 28, 2015

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Sohar Islamic makes buying new car easier Sohar Islamic offers its clients Shari’ah compliant auto financing solutions for new and used cars for up to 80% of the value and does so without the need for salary transfers

MUSCAT: Sohar Islamic, Bank Sohar’s dedicated Islamic Banking window, offers attractive auto finance solutions for a tenure of up to seven years for new cars without the need for a salary transfer.

With quick approvals, special competitive rates for the holy month of Ramadan starting from 3.5%,and no requirement for a joint registration or mortgage on salary transfer, Sohar Islamic Auto Finance is the perfect solution for purchasing your dream car this Ramadan, says a press release.

Highlighting Sohar Islamic’s Shari’ah compliant auto finance, Mohammad Haris, AGM and Head of Sohar Islamic, said: “With each of our products and services we are committed towards helping meet our customers’ financial

needs. This is especially true with our auto financing, which offers a greater variety of options and minimal documentation.

“For the duration of the holy month of Ramadan and considering the many auto dealership offers, we have taken a step further by extending our working hours from 8pm to 11pm over and above the normal branch hours.

“With the flexibility and the fast approval process of our auto financing facility, our clients can make the most of these Ramadan offers when purchasing exactly the vehicle they desire.”

Sohar Islamic offers its clients Shari’ah compliant auto financing solutions for new and used cars for up to 80% of the value and does so without the need for salary trans-

fers. Furthermore, if the salary is transferred to the bank, joint registration or mortgage is no longer required. Finance is available for a period of up to seven years for new vehicles and up to five years for used cars.

The programme also prides itself on offering quick processing with initial approvals available within one hour. It also offers higher financing limits and very competitive profit rates for both Omanis and Non Omanis starting with 3.5% for financing for a tenure of 12 months and 4% for 13 to 24 months.

For financing amounting to over OMR15,000, customers can also opt for financing tenures of up to 60 or 84 months with profit rates of 4.75% and 4.99% respectively.

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Air Arabia named ‘Best low-cost airline in ME’ SHARJAH: Air Arabia has been named the Best low-cost airline in the Middle East at the annual Skytrax World Airline Awards, which took place at the Paris Air Show recently. This is the second time in three years that Air Arabia has won the coveted award, following its previous victory in 2013, says a press release.

“We are delighted to be once again named the region’s top low-cost carrier,” said Adel A. Ali, group chief executive officer of Air Arabia. “Winning the Skytrax award is particularly pleasing as it is based on levels of customer satisfaction, which is the criteria Air Arabia values above all others. We thank survey participants for their positive feedback and hope to make their next experience of flying with Air Arabia even more enjoyable.”

The world’s largest airline passenger satisfaction survey is conducted every year to decide the winners of the Skytrax World Airline Awards.

The award for the best lowcost airline is based upon an assessment of customer satisfaction of the product and staff service standards provided by the airline in both the cabin and airport environments.

The Skytrack award continues a string of accolades won by Air Arabia over the past year, including “Low Cost Carrier of the Year” from Aviation Business, “Middle East’s Leading Low-Cost Airline 2014” at the 21st World Travel Awards, the “Airline Business Award” at the Airline Strategy Awards 2014, and “Best LowCost Carrier” at the 2015 World Tourism Forum Awards.

SAFETY FIRST

AHLIBANK DONATION TO DAR AL ATA’A

Abdullah Al Jabri, general manager of Al Hilal Islamic Banking Services presents a cheque to Maryam Al Zedjali, chairperson, Dar Al Atta’a, as part of the bank’s annual Ramadan campaign. — Supplied photo

Mercedes-Benz pioneers innovations in auto safety MUSCAT: Mercedes-Benz is a true pioneer of automotive safety.

Ever since the invention of the motor car in 1886, MercedesBenz, together with its precursor brands, has been instrumental in the development of active and passive safety, setting one new benchmark after another in the process. Thanks to its continuous and comprehensive research in this field, Mercedes-Benz has introduced many crucial innovations that have saved countless lives over the years.

The very first vehicle with exemplary road safety was developed back in the 1900’s by Wilhelm Maybach, and was known as the Mercedes 35 HP, says a press release.

Factors which contributed to making this model such an ingenious introduction in the automotive world include the long wheelbase, low centre of gravity, the engine bolted to the frame and the wide track. Between 1921 and 1931, Mercedes-Benz passenger car models were equipped with front wheel brakes, hydraulic braking systems and inde-

pendent front and rear suspension with swing axles. By 1958, Mercedes-Benz had created several patents on safety features, such as conical-pin safety door lock, wedge-pin door lock and safety body with rigid passenger cell and crumple zones.

One year later, Mercedes-Benz strengthened its commitment to safety measures with the start of systematic crash testing and the use of dummies. Since then, a number of safety features have been introduced in all MercedesBenz passenger cars.

“Our declared aim at MercedesBenz is to retain and extend our role as trendsetters in the field of vehicle safety and, by doing so, to continue to improve road safety”, said Professor Rodolfo Schöneburg, head of Vehicle Safety at Mercedes-Benz Cars. “We are currently, for example, concentrating on reducing the strain on the upper torso in a side-on collision. We are also developing a substantial number of other concepts, features and products that we believe will pioneer new elements of safety for the automotive industry.”

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WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM SUNDAY, JUNE 28, 2015

SECTION

SPOR YOUR GAME

S

NO RIFT BETWEEN DHONI NI AND KOHLI, SAYS SHAMII Insisting that all was well in the Indian cricket dressing room, pacer Mohammed Shami on Saturday said that reports of rift between Test captain n Virat Kohli and ODI skipper Mahendra a Singh Dhoni are simply wrong. >C2

Pakistan fight back in Colombo Test Sangakkara to retire during India series

The tourists, who conceded a lead of 177 runs after being dismissed for 138 in the first innings, closed the third day’s play at 171 for two in their second knock

COLOMBO: Pakistan’s batsmen bounced back after the first innings debacle to throw open the second Test against Sri Lanka at the P. Sara Oval in Colombo on Thursday. The tourists, who conceded a lead of 177 runs after being dismissed for 138 in the first innings, closed the third day’s play at 171 for two in their second knock.

When bad light halted play an hour early, Pakistan trailed by just six runs with eight wickets in hand, promising a keen tussle between bat and ball over the next two days.

Sri Lanka, looking for a series-levelling win after losing the first Test in Galle, removed Mohammad Hafeez cheaply for eight before lunch, caught in the slips by Kumar Sangakkara off Angelo Mathews.

Opener Ahmed Shehzad hit 69 during a second-wicket stand of 120 with Azhar Ali, the pair batting through the post-lunch session to defy the Sri Lankan bowlers.

Shehzad was dismissed off the first ball after tea, top-edging a hook off Dhammika Prasad, but Younis Khan joined Azhar to put on 42 for the unbroken third wicket.

Azhar was unbeaten on 64 and Younis, determined to make his 100th match special after falling for six in the first innings, closed the day on a watchful 23.

Sri Lanka, who began at their overnight score of 304-9 after a delayed start due to bad weather, were dismissed for 315 in their first innings in reply to Pakistan’s 138. — AFP

GOOD PARTNERSHIP: Pakistan’s Ahmed Shehzad, right,

is congratulated by Azhar Ali after scoring a half century during the third day of the second Test in Colombo. – AP/PTI SCOREBOARD

Pakistan 1st innings: 138 (Mohammad Hafeez 42, Tharindu Kaushal 5-42, Dhammika Prasad 3-43) Sri Lanka 1st innings (overnight (304-9): D. Karunaratne c Sarfraz b Junaid 28 K. Silva run out 80 K. Sangakkara c Shafiq b Babar 34 L. Thirimanne c Azhar b Yasir 7 A. Mathews lbw b Yasir 77 D. Chandimal b Yasir 1 K. Vithanage b Yasir 3 D. Prasad lbw b Hafeez 35 R. Herath not out 18 T. Kaushal c Misbah b Yasir 18 D. Chameera c Younis b Yasir 2 Extras: (b-6, lb-4, nb-1, w-1) 12 Total (all out, 121.3 overs) 315 Fall of wickets: 1-47 (Karunaratne), 2-98 (Sangakkara), 3-119 (Thirimanne), 4-191 (Silva), 5-194 (Chandimal), 6-202 (Vithanage), 7-275 (Prasad), 8-275 (Mathews), 9-303 (Kaushal), 10-315 (Chameera).

Bowling: Wahab 9-2-19-0 (nb1), Junaid

29-5-89-1 (w1), Babar 32-8-82-1, Yasir 41.35-96-6, Hafeez 10-2-19-1.

Pakistan 2nd innings: Mohd Hafeez c Sangakkara b Mathews 8 A. Shehzad c Chandimal b Prasad 69 A. Ali not out 64 Y. Khan not out 23 Extras: (b-2, lb-1, w-2, nb-2) 7 Total (for two wickets, 59 overs) 171 Fall of wickets: 1-9 (Hafeez), 2-129 (Shehzad) Bowling: Prasad 13.3-0-46-1 (w1), Mathews 5-3-5-1, Herath 14-3-33-0, Chameera 8.3-128-0 (w1), Kaushal 18-2-56-0 (nb2).

Note: Chameera went off the field after bowling three balls of his second over. Prasad completed the over.

Position: Pakistan trail by six runs with eight wickets in hand.

Toss: Pakistan Umpires: Richard Illingworth (ENG) and Sundaram Ravi (IND) TV umpire: Paul Reiffel (AUS) Match referee: Chris Broad (ENG)

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s batting great Kumar Sangakkara on Saturday ended speculation about his future, saying he will retire during the home series against India in August.

“This is my time to call it a day,” Sangakkara, 37, told reporters on the sidelines of the second Test against Pakistan at the P. Sara Oval in Colombo.

The left-hander said he will play two of the three Tests against India that will take place in Sri Lanka in August.

The exact dates and venues have not yet been announced.

Sangakkara, the current world leading Test run-getter, said he will also skip the third and final Test of the ongoing series against Pakistan starting in Pallekele on July 3.

“I wanted to retire after the World Cup, but was requested by the selectors to stay on,” he said. “I agreed to play four more Tests. I will honour that agreement. I gave my word, so will stand by that.”

Sangakkara’s 12,305 runs and 38 centuries are the most by any batsman still playing Tests, way above secondplaced Alastair Cook of England, who has 9,000 runs and 27 hundreds.

The 132-Test veteran may be below record-holder Sachin Tendulkar’s Test tally of 15,921 runs and 51 hundreds, but his 11 scores of 200-plus are just one short of Australian legend Don Bradman’s record of 12.

“I don’t want to prolong my career for records,” said Sangakkara. “I don’t want to extend my career for individual records. This is the time to go.”

In the first Test against Pakistan in Galle, Sangakkara hit a 50 in the first innings — his 52nd half-century — and 18 in the second when Sri Lanka were shot out for 206 to lose by 10 wickets. He fell for 34 in

I don’t want to extend my career for individual records. This is the time to go K. Sangakkara Sri Lanka

the first innings of the ongoing second Test. Sangakkara had hammered 203 against New Zealand in Wellington in January to continue a prolific streak that saw him make 221 against Pakistan and 319 against Bangladesh last year.

‘Culture of fearless cricket’ Sangakkara retired from Twenty20 cricket after helping Sri Lanka win the World Twenty20 title in Bangladesh last year and quit one-day internationals after the recent World Cup Down Under where he smashed four consecutive centuries. “I am going to miss playing for Sri Lanka a lot,” he said. “I had the time of my life playing for Sri Lanka. I enjoyed playing every format but donning whites for Sri Lanka has been special.

“I can walk away happy that good days outweigh the disappointments.”

Asked when he first thought of retiring, Sangakkara said,

“My father asked me a couple of years ago ‘don’t you think it’s time to think of retirement?’

I was shocked. But it struck home that it was time to think of the future.”

Sangakkara added his twoyear contract with English county Surrey did not hasten his decision to retire from Tests, as he dismissed the idea of becoming a coach after retirement with a laugh saying he would “make a bad coach”.

“I don’t know if I will have the patience for that,” he added. He predicted a bright future for the young Sri Lankan team under Angelo Mathews and urged fans to have patience with them.

“There is a lot of talent and ability in the dressing room,” Sangakkara said. “Angelo is a fantastic cricketer and captain. He is the ideal man to lead Sri Lanka. “I wish there will be real culture of fearless cricket. Give this team a period of a year and they will come a long way.” - AFP

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SU N DAY, JUNE 28, 2015

SPORTS

No rift between Dhoni and Virat, says Shami Mohammed Shami requested media

I like his captaincy, I mean look at his record. Mahi has won us World Cups in all formats of the game

not to highlight ‘baseless’ stories of disunity and rift between Kohli and Dhoni, and instead write about the

Mohammed Shami

team’s and players’

Indian fast bowler

performance

BANGALORE: Insisting that all was well in the Indian cricket dressing room, pacer Mohammed Shami on Saturday said that reports of rift between Test captain Virat Kohli and ODI skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni are simply wrong.

“That the team is divided and the team is not performing - there is no truth in these things. I have shared the dressing room with all of them including Virat and Mahi Bhai. I never felt anything like that (there is a rift between them).

If media is making an issue then it is wrong,” he told PTI here.

The injured pacer is in the city undergoing fitness training at the National Cricket Academy.

Shami has been out of action since the World Cup due to discomforting pain and injury in his left knee. Shami also requested media not to highlight “baseless” stories of disunity and rift between Kohli and Dhoni, and instead write about the team’s and players’ performance.

“I request media not to highlight these baseless stories. This only divides the team, and affects team’s and players’ performance,” he said. Asked whether Dhoni should give up captaincy after a poor show by India against Bangladesh, Shami said it is not fair to draw conclusions on the basis of one bad series. “I like his captaincy, I mean look at his record. Mahi Bhai has won us World Cups in all

Dhoni’s achievements ‘should not be forgotten’ KOLKATA: Mahendra Singh Dhoni may have faced lot of flak for his team’s embarrassing ODI series defeat against Bangladesh but Pakistan T20 captain Shahid Afridi is “not happy” in the manner the Indian ODI skipper was being targeted. Afridi termed this as “sub-continental trend” where the cricketing heroes are pilloried after one odd series defeat.

“I really felt bad in the way MS (Dhoni) has been treated after Bangladesh series defeat.

I completely think it’s a subcontinental trend where our heroes are not spared after one bad defeat. The media is also responsible for not painting the true picture at times,” Afridi told PTI during an interaction. Afridi could empathise more with Dhoni as he has also faced criticism over

formats of the game. One should not draw conclusions based on just two series where we haven’t performed. According to me, he should continue,” he said.

Asked when is he likely to begin bowling in the nets, Shami hoped that he would be able to do that next month onwards. “I cannot

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NOT HAPPY: Shahid Afridi, left, is not happy the way MS Dhoni, right, is being targeted.

the years in his own country.

“I am not saying that one should not analyse the present performance of a leader or a player. Criticise him but when you do that please don’t forget to also inform the world about the past. When you look at Dhoni, just look at his record before jumping to any conclusions. He has been such a tremendous player for India.

write and give, but I hope to start bowling in the nets next month,” he said. Shami has been out of action since the World Cup after he complained of pain in his knees.

After he was ruled out of last IPL, Shami, who was the fourth highest wicket-taker of the World Cup with 17 wickets in seven matches,

His record speaks for itself,” said Afridi. The swashbuckling batsman also credited Dhoni for building a good Indian team for future. “Dhoni has built such a good team for the future. There is so much quality and talent in that batting line-up,” he said.

Afridi, who now only plays T20 format for Pakistan, also sounded positive about Pakistan’s bench strength.

“Pakistan cricket’s domestic structure has improved a lot in recent years. That is why we are now having a good supply line of youngsters in the national team. This team will only grow from strength to strength in coming days,” observed the 35-year-old.

Afridi quit playing ODIs after World Cup with a record 398 ODIs. — PTI

underwent knee surgery in New Delhi. Asked how is he feeling after five to six days of his rehabilitation at the NCA, Shami said his body is in a better shape now. “From past five to six days, I have been undergoing fitness training. There is no problem and I am slowly increasing the weight,” he said. — PTI

C O M M E N TA RY

Dhoni is no saint, but he’s more sinned against than sinning

M

irpur, June 21. Taskin Ahmed runs in to deliver the last ball of his second over and bangs it short. A sharp bouncer, but Taskin oversteps in the process. A freehit. A bouncer again, short of a length, wide outside off stump, and Virat Kohli, having already faced nine balls and having watched Shikhar Dhawan deals with 16 deliveries in his company, just blocks it.

That was the fourth over of the second ODI against Bangladesh.

A match India should win to avoid a series loss. What clarity of mind Kohli needed to make an effort to hit the ball as hard as he could, knowing well in advance that he was not going to be given out caught or bowled off a freehit?

Mirpur, June 18. Kohli strides in after the fall of Dhawan, pokes at the fourth ball he faces, short of a length, outside off stump, from Taskin, and wicketkeeper Mushfiqur Rahman happily gathers the edge.

That was the first ODI, which India lost by 79 runs chasing an imposing target of 308. At 95 for one in 16 overs for the loss of one wicket, it’s an ideal platform for Kohli to walk in, play himself in and take the team to the target or as close to it. Instead, he chose to express himself in the way a bloke of his experience and responsibility shouldn’t have.

Mirpur, June 24. Kohli goes for a big slog at Shakib Al Hasan in the 20th over, misses it completely, and looks back to find the woodwork rattled as Bangladeshi fans in the stands and players on the field celebrate shutting up the big mouth for the third time in the series.

That was the third ODI. The one which India desperately wanted to win to keep some pride intact, where, in a pre-match interaction with Star Sports, Kohli chose to express himself against the decision maker/makers, explaining to the world of experts and lesser mortals the hows and whys of their poor showings on the field: It’s not my fault or our boys’, you stupid; it’s all thanks to doubtful decision making.

No prize for guessing who had made the doubtful decisions, viewed in the backdrop of what looked like a war of the coaches.

A day earlier, Dhoni’s personal coach Chanchal Bhattacharya spoke about how the dressing

room atmosphere was worrying Dhoni, and Kohli’s personal coach Rajkumar Sharma described the series loss as the “Black Sunday”.

Now, let’s turn the clock a little more back. Sydney, March 26.

Mitchell Johnson hits the deck hard and the ball rises menacingly across, an arrogant Kohli tries to pull it out of the stadium, and the edge is merrily taken y wicketkeeper Brad Haddin.

That was the semifinal of the 2015 World Cup. It was a case of indiscriminate shot selection when the team score was a reasonable 78 for one in at the end of 16 overs by the guy who walked out into the middle at No. 3 on the mother of all occasions. At stake was the place in the final and the chance to win the World Cup, back to back.

And how Dhoni expressed himself at that time with an absolute clarity of mind is something Kohli should learn from: “Pehli baat yeh hai ki til ka taad nahin banate hain.” (Let’s not make a mountain out of a molehill.) Let’s accept the fact that he played a shot that didn’t pay off.

It happens.” Call it diplomacy or cunningness at its best, it takes clarity of mind, professionalism and respect for the boys under your command to rise in defence of the guy who was being painted as the villain of the piece. Sadly, that’s something Kohli totally lacked during his pre-match blah-blah at Mirpur.

No one doubts Kohli’s potential.

He may eventually achieve for himself and India more than what Dhoni did, but that doesn’t mean he has a licence to whip out a gun and fire at whoever he thinks isn’t allowing him to express himself.

Dhoni is no saint but, at the moment, it seems he is more sinned against than sinning. Can’t we give him the respect he richly deserves and the time be badly needs to decide when he really wants to walk into the sunset?.

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

CRICKET

Batting powerplays gone from ODIs MELBOURNE: Batting powerplays have been scrapped from one-day international cricket and field restrictions relaxed to provide some relief to bowlers who were set upon mercilessly at the World Cup. At its annual conference in Barbados, the International Cricket Council (ICC) ratified a number of proposed changes to the 50over format, which come into effect from July 5.

Among them, the requirement to post catching fielders within the 30-yard circle in the first 10 overs has been dropped and five fielders will be allowed outside of it in the last 10 overs, rather than the previous maximum of four.

“We have thoroughly reviewed the ODI format after a very successful ICC Cricket World Cup,” ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said in a statement.

“There was no need to make any radical changes to what has proved to be a vibrant and popular format but we wanted to take this opportunity to make the format simpler and easier to follow for

In another notable change, all no-balls by bowlers will hand a free hit to batters, as opposed to just foot-faults.

ICC are looking to size and build of bats too ... the public as well as maintaining a balance between bat and ball.”

In another notable change, all no-balls by bowlers will hand a free hit to batters, as opposed to just foot-faults.

Though Australia paceman Mitchell Starc was named the best player of the World Cup, batsmen reigned supreme in most matches where innings scores regularly breached 350 runs and occasionally surpassed 400.

The ICC are looking at the size and build of bats which have sometimes compounded bowlers’ misery by sending mis-hits sailing

over boundary ropes for six.

Richardson also said the ICC might “tamper” with the seam on balls to see if bowlers could garner any additional aid.

“There is a view if we sanction or look at some change to the thickness or the depth of seam it might actually be what we are looking forward to give the seam bowlers a little bit more help, also aid swing and to enable the spinners to get more grip and to spin the ball more if we tamper with the seam,” Richardson said in comments posted on espncricinfo.com.

Suspended The USA Cricket Association’s (USACA) membership of the International Cricket Council (ICC) has been suspended with immediate effect, the sport’s governing body said on Friday.

The decision to suspend USACA was made after findings set out in an ICC review group report expressed “significant concerns about the governance, finance, reputation and cricketing activities of USACA.

“The ICC Board has made this difficult decision in the best interest of the game and all cricketers in the USA,” ICC chairman Narayanaswami Srinivasan said in a statement.

“The country has tremendous potential but because of governance, financial and cricketing challenges, the opportunity to grow the game is not being properly nurtured.”

The suspension means USACA will not get ICC funding but the sport’s governing body said the U.S. will be able to play in next month’s ICC World Twenty20 qualifiers in Ireland and Scotland.

The ICC board put USACA on notice in January hoping it would urgently address and improve areas identified as weaknesses but the ICC believes the response has been inadequate.

To have its suspension lifted and membership reinstated, the ICC said USACA must demonstrate that conditions relating to governance, finance and its cricket activities have been addressed and remedied in full. - Reuters

S U N DAY, JU N E 2 8, 2 0 1 5

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SPORTS ‘Sultanate of Oman’ maintains overall lead of GC32 Racing Tour SCAN THIS TO VISIT

ARTICLE, VIDEO, PHOTO GALLERY

The injury to Sultanate

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

of Oman skipper Leigh McMillan during Thursday’s last race turned out to be more serious than first thought and he was ruled out of the remaining races in Cowes with a broken hand

MUSCAT: Oman Sail’s ‘Sultanate of Oman’ GC32 team maintained their position as overall leaders of the 2015 Bullitt GC32 Racing Tour despite a last minute change to the crew and gear failure on the boat which forced it out of the final race in the Cowes Cup. The injury to skipper Leigh McMillan during Thursday’s last race turned out to be more serious than first thought and he was ruled out of the remaining races in Cowes with a broken hand.

Paul Campbell-James, who skippered Oman Sail’s The Wave, Muscat to victory in the 2010 Extreme Sailing Series, stepped in to

OVERALL LEADER: Sultanate of Oman finished runners-up in Cowes Cup but maintained their lead in the 2015 Bullitt GC32 Racing Tour

despite last minute change to crew and gear failure. – Supplied photo

replace McMillan as Sultanate of Oman helmsman both on Friday and for the JP Morgan Round the Island Race on Saturday. Campbell-James is no stranger to foiling on a GC32 and over the past few weeks has been training in the Solent on an AC45 as a member of Sir Ben Ainslie’s America’s Cup team.

The crew had an ‘up and down’ day with a superb win in the sec-

ond race and a further podium place in the mix. A broken winch ruled them out of the last race, but they were happy to have secured second overall, runners up to Cowes Cup winners Armin Strom.

“It was a really fun day,” said Campbell-James, who was accompanied by regular crewmembers Pete Greenhalgh, Nasser Al Mashari, Ed Smyth and Alister Richardson.

“This was my first time racing GC32s in a decent breeze and obviously my first time racing the boat with these guys. We got a penalty in the first race, won the second and made a mistake in the third but we were always in there fighting and finished second so were pretty pleased with that.

Smiles all round.”

“We are getting there and hopefully we can get a jump on every-

one tomorrow when we go round the Isle of Wight.”

Sultanate of Oman’s performances over the first two days safeguarded their position as 2015 Bullitt GC32 Racing Tour leaders with a three point lead over Armin Strom and according to trimmer Pete Greenhalgh, their steady improvement was the most exciting aspect of their Cowes Cup participation.

“These boats are serious bits of kit and we are still beginners, finding our way around the boat in the different conditions,” he said.

“We had around 15 knots of breeze on Friday and saw 36 knots of speed but most of the day, we were doing more than 30 which was a lot of fun. As a crew, we feel there is a lot more to come.”

Between them, Oman Sail’s professional Sultanate of Oman crew have dozens of Round the Island Races under their belt and for Omani Nasser Al Mashari, the 2015 edition will be his second, having previously competed on an Extreme 40.

“We will be looking closely at the forecast tonight but could find anything from 10 to 20 knots to contend with but it will be fun going round on foils and I am really looking forward to it,” he said.

Leigh McMillan who was born on the Isle of Wight and has competed in a succession of Round the Island Races since he was a child will be watching from the sidelines but is confident the Sultanate of Oman will finish fairly early.

“I am very disappointed not to be taking part but am concentrating on my recovery and getting back into action as soon as possible,” he said. “The boat is in good hands and I shall look forward to seeing them fly across the finish line well ahead of everyone else.”

GOLF

Oman Golf reschedules practice timings for Ramadan MUSCAT: With the Holy month of Ramadan underway, the OGC (Oman Golf Committee) has altered the timings of practice session for its senior, junior and ladies squads.

The players are now training in the evening, instead of their customary morning and late-afternoon sessions. The OGC’s senior players are undergoing hour-long training sessions at Almouj Golf in The Wave, Muscat starting at 5pm, and the junior and ladies teams are going through the paces at Ghala Golf Club starting at 8pm on a routine basis.

PGA Pro Marcus Casey is coaching the senior players. The juniors and ladies are taking evening lessons from PGA Pro Milo Breitenwischer. Azaan Al Rumhy,

Oman’s national champion who is currently recuperating from a knee surgery, welcomed the OGC’s change in practice timings and wished everyone Ramadan Kareem. He said: “It’s the Holy month of Ramadan and we are all fasting.

Unfortunately, I cannot practice for a few weeks now because I had a surgery last week. But the senior guys are continuing with their training drills on a new schedule.

The practice timings for Ramadan have been managed in such a way so as to accommodate the players’ prayer sessions and Iftar break. I wish everyone Ramadan Kareem.”

Breitenwischer, the junior and ladies’ team coach, said: “The coaching drills have remained the same for the youngsters and the ladies golfers. Only the timings

have been moved. The players now come over for practice after Iftar. It’s important to keep them engaged with the game at all times of the year. In that regard, the OGC has done a great job in managing their practice sessions.”

Asma Al Rashdi, a member of Oman’s ladies team, observed: “This change in timings is only for Ramadan. We proposed to our coach that since we all are fasting, we can reschedule our timings to suit that. Hence, we are having evening coaching sessions this month.”

Fahad Al Kitani, a member of the junior team, said: “It’s an ideal move to change the practice timings as firstly, we are fasting, and secondly, the challenging heat is back again.”

TRAINING SESSION: Junior golfers practice at Ghala Golf Club. – Supplied photo

FOUR TEAMS ENTER SECOND ROUND OF OMANTEL RAMADAN CRICKET Four teams booked berths after wins in the first round of the Pakistan Social club organised Omantel Ramadan Cricket Tournament 2015. United Enterprises beat Marala by nine wickets thanks to man of the match Jameel’s (26) and Qamar’s (25) efforts. In the other matches, Nafeesa Jewellery defeated Barka XI by 13 runs, Saud Travel trounced Charwa XI by 43 runs. Man of the match was Nafeesa was Usman (43 runs), while Faisal (46) was Saud Travel’s hero. In another match Asad XI hammered PWC Panthers by nine wickets.

— Supplied photo

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SU N DAY, JUNE 28, 2015

SPORTS WIMBLEDON

It’s back to the future as moribund tactic is revived A number of top men are leading the charge and, in a curious twist, the same blend of technology and

Serena unfazed by calender Slam pressure LONDON: Serena Williams is adamant she can cope with the pressure of going for a calender Grand Slam as she eyes the third leg of the historic achievement at Wimbledon.

Williams has swept to Australian and French Open triumphs over the last six months and the world number one returns to the All England Club within two major titles of becoming the first woman since Steffi Graf in 1988 to claim the four top titles in one year.

The 33-year-old American also won the US Open to end 2014 on a high and is heavy favourite to continue that dominant run by taking the Wimbledon title for the sixth time in her illustrious career.

Her march to a momentous milestone has captured the public’s attention and Serena knows the eyes of the sporting world will be on her over the next fortnight.

But she insists she will have no problems with the extra attention and expectation because her mental toughness is a bigger strength than even her booming serve and over-powering ground-strokes.

“Personally it doesn’t make it feel any different, which I think is a good thing because I don’t feel any pressure to win all four,” Williams told reporters at Wimbledon on Saturday. “I really don’t feel that pressure. Maybe if I would happen to win here, then maybe I might start feeling it after that.”

With 20 Grand Slam titles to her name, Williams also sits third on the all-time list and is closing fast on Margaret Court’s record of 24, with the possibility of equalling second-placed Graf’s tally of 22 by the end of the year.

Yet, while Williams comes to the All England Club as the woman to beat, she knows her early exits from the tournament over the last two years prove nothing can be taken for granted, especially given her discomfort on the fast grasscourts. — AFP

lung-busting fitness blamed for all-but killing off this style of play is behind its resurgence

LONDON: The yellowing obituaries are looking premature as serve-and-volley tennis creeps, with a few tweaks, towards a renaissance of sorts.

A number of top men are leading the charge and, in a curious twist, the same blend of technology and lung-busting fitness blamed for all-but killing off this style of play is behind its resurgence.

As players hit harder shots, miss fewer balls and run for hour upon hour, competitors need a ploy to shorten points.

Introducing... the serve-andvolley. It is an old-school move which, used selectively, might just become the newest potent weapon in the armoury of modern players.

“At the moment you see the guys winning the slams from the baseline,” former tour pro and leading coach and tennis analyst Darren Cahill told Reuters.

“But then you see the great players of today working on their net games because they know it saves them physically because they have to work so hard to win points.

“Over the course of a grand slam, seven matches, best of five, they are looking at ways to shorten points to save as much energy as they can.

“I think Novak, Rafa and Roger are coming in way more than they were four or five years ago,” Cahill said of Djokovic, Nadal and Federer. Time was that unless you knew the dark arts of serve-and-volley, you could forget about winning Wimbledon.

Even baseliner Bjorn Borg would roll his rounded shoulders into the ball and race to the net at the All England Club, punching his wooden racket through the white ball. Not as frequently as John McEnroe, of course, who elevated serve-volley to a higher art form — nor the likes of Pat Cash, Boris Becker and Pete Sampras who followed him.

But, all the same, Borg knew his way around the net — a fact mostly overlooked because his baseline

THE TROPHIES: The Men’s Singles trophy, right, and Women’s’ Singles trophy are seen on Centre Court at Wimbledon in London. The Wimbledon tennis championships begins on Monday. – Reuters

Federer revved up for Wimbledon record bid LONDON: Roger Federer says he is in the pefect condition to win Wimbledon for a record eighth time as the Swiss great bids to avenge last year’s “heart-breaking” final defeat.

Federer’s last appearance at the All England Club 12 months ago ended in the despair of a five-set loss against Novak Djokovic that left him shedding tears during the postmatch presentations.

The distraught seven-time champion was so overcome by emotion that Prince William and his wife Kate, who were the All England Club’s guests of honour, stopped to console Federer when he passed them on his way back to the Centre Court locker room.

But Federer is adamant he has moved on from that painful day and he returns to his favourite Grand Slam determined to finally surpass Pete Sampras and William Renshaw as Wimbledon’s most successful male singles champion. “If I look at last year, I see more the positives than actually the heart-breaking loss in the final,” Federer told reporters at the All England Club on Saturday.

“I didn’t expect myself to right away make the final. To be honest, I was still somewhat on the way back (from injury).

But things went faster than I thought they would.

“It goes to show that last year, I wasn’t playing great and I made the finals.

play was so preternatural.

Everything changed Over the years it became received wisdom that grass, plus serve, plus

by the super-powerful equipment — got slower.

Different grass of different lengths was experimented with.

The balance of baseline tennis and serve-and-volley tennis tipped.

In 2002 Lleyton Hewitt squared up to David Nalbandian in the first Wimbledon men’s final contested by two baseliners.

Hewitt won a forgettable affair during which neither player attempted to serve-volley. Not one point. Now that Wimbledon could be won with a big forehand and even bigger lungs, the motivation to learn and hone the art of net play, and serve-volley in particular, receded further.

The new racquets and strings allowed players to strike a ball down by their ankles with a full-blooded swing and send it flying low and dipping over the net — a volleyer’s worst nightmare.

A few cavalier souls persevered but, generally, the baseline pattern was set. Federer eased into all-court excellence, while Nadal and Djokovic mopped up grand slam crowns with baseline crunching shots.

Some sceptics said it was a cycle. Serve-volleying titans, including McEnroe and Tony Roche, imagined a time when a super-athlete emerged and breathed new life into the old tactic.

That has not happened yet. But slowly, the skill of hustling into the net immediately behind a serve is growing in popularity — often on second serve where more spin and kick allows more time for the volleyer to get in place.

AT PRACTICE: Switzerland’s Roger Federer during a practice

session ahead of the 2015 Wimbledon Championships. – AFP

“Whereas now I feel my game is better. I can really aim for Wimbledon this year. I feel like I see a big picture more now.”

Federer, who starts his 17th All England Club campaign with a first-round tie against Bosnia’s Damir Dzumhur, arrives in south-west London back up to second in the world rankings and in confident mood after winning the Wimbledon warm-up event at Halle for the eighth time last week.

Third favourite Even so, he has only won one Grand Slam in his last 18 attempts — at Wimbledon in 2012 — and the bookmakers have him as third favourite for the title behind world number one Djokovic and 2013 champion Andy Murray.

The 17-time Grand Slam winner suffered an embarrassing Australian Open third-round defeat against

volley, equals silverware. It was a simple equation which had served dozens and dozens of champions down the years.

Then everything changed.

Andreas Seppi in January and was routed in straight sets by compatriot Stan Wawrinka at the French Open recently.

Despite those setbacks, Federer will always fancy his chances on the lush lawns of Wimbledon and he believes the extra week of preparation time -- due to the start of the tournament moving back by a week for the first time this year -- could prove invaluable.

“It’s probably been the best preparation I’ve ever had for Wimbledon, for obvious reasons, because we have a week more on the grass,” Federer added.

“It’s changed everything, to be honest. You might think that a week is not a lot, but a week is so much for us players.

“The good thing is you can heal problems you might have carried over from the French rather than taking chances right away on grass.” — AFP

Racquets got bigger, lighter, more powerful.

Players got fitter, balls got lighter and grass courts — in a bid to recreate the longer rallies killed off

Decades in wilderness The tactic is becoming common on clay courts as a way to finish a point quickly, and it possesses the element of surprise after decades in the wilderness.

Andy Murray’s coach Jonas Bjorkman, in his day a serve-volleyer, says he wants the Briton to use the tactic more. Three-times Wimbledon champion Boris Becker, perhaps the most aggressive serve-volleyer of them all, wants his charge, world number one Djokovic, to give it a whirl.

Federer, now coached by another exponent of the art Stefan Edberg, best illustrates the trend. In 2002 he serve-volleyed more than 80 percent of the time at Wimbledon. By 2003 that figure had dropped to 3.5 percent according to the tournament’s official statisticians IBM. A gradual increase then kicks in, with the Swiss upping his servevolleying year-on-year to more than 20 percent in 2014.

Djokovic used the tactic to good effect in Paris at the French Open last month where he lost in the final. Although nobody predicts a return to the tennis of 30 years ago, this year’s Wimbledon statistics will make for interesting reading.

“I think anyone who does serve and volley well is going to have some success... it’s different to what players are used to,” Cahill said. - Reuters

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AT H L E T I C S

Victory lap caps special day for Gay EUGENE: Tyson Gay almost did not take a victory lap after perhaps his most important win ever at 100 metres on Friday.

Good thing he changed his mind. Adoring fans at the U.S. world championships trials showered the American record holder with a teddy bear, a book and some high fives, Gay said, as he won his first national title since 2008. “(It) turned out to be one of the most exciting things I’ve done,” the 32-year-old said of his victory lap. “A lot of people said ‘welcome back’, ‘I’m so glad to have you back.’ It meant a lot to me.”

The victory, in 9.87 seconds, put Gay back in the world championships for the first time since 2009. Injuries and a 2013 positive doping test had kept him away.

“This win right here may be the most important win (ever),” said the 2007 double sprint world champion. “I feel like it was the toughest.”

“Back in 2000 and some of the other times (when) I ran the trials my competitors weren’t running as fast. The competition wasn’t as stiff during the rounds.

“People are just getting faster and I have to adapt to. My 10 years, 11 years of experience has really helped me run the rounds.”

He has also had to adjust to a new coach and a new environment. After years in the South, he moved to Los Angeles after his one-year doping suspension.

John Smith, who coached the now-retired Maurice Greene to a world record, now directs his workouts. “Two totally different systems that I’m trying to adapt to,” said Gay. “John Smith prefers I work on my movement and my technique in practice rather than my time. I’m used to running in a lot hotter weather.”

He got the heat back on a steamy day, and needed all his experience to beat teenager Bromell, who clocked 9.96 seconds after leading Gay early. - Reuters

SPORTS

2015 Ashes triumph would be pinnacle for Captain Cook Alastair Cook has endured some torrid

In home conditions and with what has happened over the last five or six weeks, and the support we are getting, we have a really good chance Alastair Cook

days since leading England to a 3-0 series win at home to Australia in his first Ashes as captain in 2013

LONDON: England captain Alastair Cook believes winning this summer’s Ashes series would be his “best achievement”.

Cook has endured some torrid days since leading England to a 3-0 series win at home to Australia in his first Ashes as captain in 2013.

In the return contest that followed soon afterwards in Australia, England were whitewashed 5-0.

Andy Flower stepped down as England coach following the team’s return and star batsman Kevin Pietersen was sent into an ongoing international exile.

England then lost a two-Test series at home to Sri Lanka, with opening batsman Cook contemplating resigning as captain after the tourists clinched victory at Headingley.

As if all that were not enough, Cook was stripped of England’s one-day captaincy in December, just months before this year’s World Cup where the team suffered an embarrassing first-round exit in his absence.

Meanwhile the normally reliable Cook, 30, endured a prolonged slump with the bat before scoring his first Test hundred in nearly two years against the West Indies in May.

England captain

“It was an incredibly tough time,” Cook said at a sponsor’s event at Lord’s on Friday.

“Losing that Test series against Sri Lanka and that fourth day at Headingley is as tough as it can get, so from where we have been if we did win the Ashes at The Oval (the venue for the fifth and final Test starting August 20) that would be remarkable, and something I would be very proud of -- it would be my best achievement.

“We have a good chance of winning. It is going to be a highly competitive series and we will go in as underdogs because they are the best side in the world.

“But in our home conditions and with what has happened over the last five or six weeks, and the support we are getting, we have a really good chance,” Cook said, with England having recently drawn a two-Test series with New Zealand before defeating the Black Caps 3-2 in the ensuing one-dayers and a one-off Twenty20.

England’s 14-man Ashes squad leave for Spain on Saturday for a

ASHES BUILD-UP

40 years on, Cowdrey’s masterclass still vivid CANTERBURY: Kent are set to concede a huge first-innings lead in their tour match against Australia, but 40 years ago this week on the same Canterbury ground, Colin Cowdrey produced a remarkable innings as they recovered to beat the feared 1975 Australians.

For generations of cricket lovers, Cowdrey was the epitome of classical elegance at the crease.

But in 1975, at the age of 42, the batting great was coming to the end of his career, having been summoned as a late replacement for a record-equalling sixth tour of Australia in 1974/75 as England were overwhelmed by the ferocity and guile of fast-bowling pair Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson.

A few months later, Cowdrey found himself up against the Australians again but this time at his beloved St Lawrence ground in Canterbury. Desperate for one more big innings against the old foe, his unbeaten 151 out of a second innings score of 354 saw Kent, more than 200 runs behind on first innings, win by four wickets as they beat Australia for the first time since 1899.

For Graham Johnson, who opened for Kent in that match, the memory of the game and Cowdrey’s innings in particular remains bright four decades on.

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“The end result was amazing because the last day, you couldn’t have written a script better than that, especially with Colin playing an innings like that,” Johnson told AFP in an interview.

“He’d come back from that winter when he had got all that stick for being flown out to Australia and getting bombarded,” added the 68-year-old Johnson, now Kent’s chairman of cricket, who spent several seasons in the same county side as Cowdrey.

“Leading us to that win was fantastic,” said Johnson.

“The position we got ourselves into in the match was quite funny.

We got rolled over and Australia didn’t enforce the follow-on.

“They wanted a bit of batting practice and I do remember one thing that set us up a little bit. Ian Chappell, their captain, decided ‘we’ll get some batting practice’ and had ordered the team bus to be their early because they wanted to get on to the next game.”

But Johnson added the Kent side had an inkling Cowdrey, out for 22 in the first innings when going well, might do something special.

“Just seeing the level he was playing at...You sort of sensed in the dressing room that he saw it as a bit special.”

But with Lillee leading an attack

that, although missing the rested Thomson, still featured lively leftarm swing bowler Gary Gilmour and off-spinner Ashley Mallett, runs were not easy to come by.

Johnson, however, said Cowdrey, who died aged 67 in 2000, could bat at a level most players could only aspire to when in top form.

“Master at work is a simple way of describing it,” said Johnson.

“I opened in that match and I got out to Gilmour twice. Lillee and Gilmour opened the bowling, Thommo didn’t play that game.

But with a new ‘nut’ (ball) in those days, without helmets and things, which people forget, it was testing. In our second innings, they got a couple of breakthroughs, myself, Brian Luckhurst.

“We rebuilt a bit, Colin was there, and Bob Woolmer (71 not out) got injured before coming back and seeing it through at the end.

“Out of 354, if one guy is there and gets 151, it says it pretty much.

When you are playing against the likes of Lillee and people at that level, some people are surviving and others are getting on top of it.

“Colin was in a great form, it was a special innings, and, as I say, it felt like watching the master at work, which is what he was when he was on form. Some of the Aussies might even have admired some of it,” Johnson said. - AFP

four-day clinic-cum-bonding session designed so their new Australian coach Trevor Bayliss can get to know the players ahead of the first Test in Cardiff starting on July 8. “We can’t pretend it’s ideal meeting the coach for the first time a week before the Ashes,” Cook said.

“It’s the first time I’ve had a coach I do not know at all. Obviously, with Peter Moores, Andrew Flower and Ashley Giles, I knew them, so I think it’s really exciting to have a guy totally from the outside and with a totally different set of eyes looking at us.”

England’s squad contains several previous Ashes-winners but Cook said they were as “hungry as ever” in their quest to deny Australia a first Test series win in Britain since 2001.

“I saw Jimmy Anderson last night (Thursday), and as soon as we started talking about cricket he told me what he wanted to do to certain players,” Cook said.

“This is a guy who has taken 400 wickets so that excited me.” - AFP

English grab at rising Aussie talent Steve Smith rebuffed LONDON: Australia batsman Steven Smith revealed English county side Surrey once tried to push him into the country’s national set-up by virtue of his mother’s British heritage. Though born in Sydney, Smith played club cricket in Kent, his mother’s home county, and also for the county side’s second XI before being offered his first professional contract as a teenager with Surrey.

Throwing his lot in with England would have been a formality due to his bloodline, but the 26-year-old said he had no regrets about opting for Australia where he

is now the world’s top-ranked batsman in Tests. “I played a little bit of club cricket at Sevenoaks Vine (in Kent). It was really enjoyable and I think it helped my game in the long run as well,” Smith told reporters. “I ended up playing a little bit of cricket at Surrey and I think they may have been trying to get me along (to the England camp) but I think I made a wise decision to play back home.”

Smith made the comments after scoring 111 against Kent in tour warm-up on Friday, an ominous warning for England’s bowlers ahead of the first Ashes Test in Cardiff on July 8. - Reuters

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SPORTS TENNIS

Bencic hails Hingis after breakthrough Eastbourne title EASTBOURNE: Belinda Bencic defeated Agnieszka Radwanska 6-4, 4-6, 6-0 at Eastbourne on Saturday to win the first title of her career and hailed the influence of superstar compatriot Martina Hingis. The trophy breakthrough for the 18-year-old Swiss denied the ninth-seeded Pole, and 2012 Wimbledon finalist, a second title at Devonshire Park on the English south coast.

Bencic, coached part-time by Hingis and by Hingis’s mother Melanie Molitor, was playing in the third final of her career.

She was beaten this month in the grass-court final at ‘s-Hertogenbosch in the Netherlands by Italian Camila Giorgi.

The youngster credited the Hingis team with “teaching me everything I know”.

“Martina gives me a lot of good advice, not just this week but all the time. Also I practice with her mom, so she’s my coach when I’m back at home. Of course they have been big influence on my game.”

Bencic got away to a treble break in the third set for 5-0 as she finished the job against the 2008 Eastbourne champion with a forehand winner to the corner.

“This is the biggest day of my career,” said the world number 31 who will rise 10 places after her maiden trophy. This is a dream come true. I’m so happy to win my first title. I woke up very nervous

this morning and even in practise I was nervous. But once on the court I tried to fight for every point, I tried my best.”

Bencic, who finished with 41 winners and 22 unforced errors, won the opening set in just under an hour. Radwanska denied the teenager a straight sets victory by taking the second to level after Bencic came back from an early break but lost the set with a backhand long. In the third, the Swiss quickly recovered her poise to run away to the win in just over two hours.

“I was very focused and really I played very free. I was disappointed I didn’t close out the second set.

I was also starting to get tired,” said Bencic. “It was a lot of running

and, yeah, long rallies. After the 3-0 (third set) I relaxed a little bit and could close it out very good.”

Radwanska, close to tears in the trophy ceremony, committed nearly 50 unforced errors.

“I’m happy to have played the final, I tried my best but Belinda was better today. After I won the second set I knew things could change quickly,” said the Pole. “But it was a very tight match and I was just not there in the third set.”

Bencic, still on a high after her first title, must now turn her thoughts to Wimbledon.

“I play Monday first round, Tsvetana Pironkova (a Wimbledon semi-finalist in 2010) is not an easy draw.” — AFP

VICTOR & VANQUISHED: Switzerland’s Belinda Bencic celebrates

with the trophy after winning the final as Poland’s Agnieszka Radwanska looks on with the runners-up trophy. – Reuters

Argentina seek lift-off after Tevez holds nerve Like Alejandro Sabella’s side at last year’s World Cup, Argentina are making hard work of their progress due to a dearth of finishing despite boasting Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero in their attack

SANTIAGO: Carlos Tevez’s moment, shaking the elephant off his back to score the decisive penalty in Argentina’s shootout win over Colombia, could signal a lift-off for Gerardo Martino’s team at the Copa America.

Argentina dominated possession and did most of the running but could not score in open play in a 0-0 quarterfinal draw with Colombia, thanks largely to a string of saves by David Ospina.

Tevez then stepped forward to beat Ospina from the spot in the 5-4 shootout win and redeem himself for the miss that put Argentina out of the 2011 tournament at the same stage.

“I can’t imagine what it would be like talking to you now if we’d have lost. It would have been very unfair,” Martino told reporters.

“I hope we can play in the same way (in the later matches) but score more goals,” he said.

Like Alejandro Sabella’s side at last year’s World Cup, Argentina are making hard work of their progress due to a dearth of finishing despite boasting Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero in their attack.

The first objective in 2014 was to breach the last-eight barrier at a World Cup for the first time since 1990 and then make it into the semis which is what they have also done in Chile.

Martino must be hoping for a liberating effect after making the semi-finals where they will play either Paraguay, whom they drew 2-2 with in their opening group match, or Brazil, their arch-rivals who beat them in the 2004 and 2007 finals.

“We controlled the entire 90 minutes. They had one header that was their most dangerous chance and their goalkeeper Ospi-

THE WINNER: Argentina’s Carlos Tevez, left, scores the winning goal past Colombia goalkeeper David Ospina during a penalty shoot out at the end of a Copa America quarterfinal against Colombia at the Sausalito Stadium in Vina del Mar, Chile. – AP/PTI

Tevez to join Boca Juniors from Juventus BUENOS AIRES: Argentina forward Carlos Tevez is to leave Juventus after two seasons in which he has revived his career and will rejoin Boca Juniors, the club where he started out and remains a cult figure.

The 31-year-old will cut short his three-year contract with Juventus despite an outstanding last season in which he helped them win Serie A and the Coppa Italia and reach the Champions League final, scoring 29 goals in all competitions. Boca Juniors announced the move on their website while Tevez was playing for Argentina in their Copa America quarter-final against Colombia on Friday night.

Tevez converted the winning penalty as Argentina won 5-4 in a shootout following a 0-0 draw. Although South American players commonly return home to play out their

na was probably their key player.

It was unfair that we had to go to penalties but that’s how it was,” Martino said.

Colombia also came to the tournament among the favourites but go home having scored one goal in four matches — and that from a central defender.

careers, Tevez’s move is unusual in that he is returning at the peak of his form rather than waiting until his mid-30s.

Boca Juniors president Daniel Angelici said Juventus and Boca had agreed terms and would finalise the transfer “in the next few hours.”

“It’s a happy and very satisfying day,” Angelici said in a statement. “The return of Carlos Tevez, at an extraordinary moment in his career, is fantastic news for all the members and fans of Boca, and also for Argentine football.”

“Carlos’s presence will give the squad added quality. Between us, the directors, coaching staff, players and fans, we will build the sporting success that Boca deserves.”

Tevez spent three years at Boca from 2001 and 2004, and went on to play for Corinthians, West Ham United, Manchester United, Manchester

Combative Argentine midfielder Javier Mascherano, who won his 115th cap, had no doubts they had faced a quality side, suggesting Colombia were a yardstick for how good Argentina are.

“The quality of the rivals is there (for all to see) this same Colombia team 12 months ago

City and Juventus, where he has spent the last two seasons.

Tevez arrived at Juventus with a reputation as a troublemaker who had fallen out of favour both at his former club Manchester City and with Argentina. But two years in Turin turned Tevez back into what he was earlier in his career, a forward whose speed, quick thinking and instinct for goal made him a nightmare for opposing defenders.

When Tevez joined Juventus, he was worn out after four eventful seasons at City where he infamously refused to warm up during a Champions League match at Bayern Munich.

He was also shunned by then Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella, who never once selected him during three years in charge amid speculation that he was considered too much of a disruptive influence. - Reuters

played a World Cup quarter-final,” he said.

“And yet we controlled our game and influenced the rivals’ game Today we feel fortified by our game.”

But Argentina must sharpen their aim and back up their creative play with goals. - Reuters

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SECTION

LIFESTYLE

Health WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM

With 15 hour days and the scorching heat of summer, those fasting this Ramadan need to take special precautions to ensure they remain healthy throughout the holy month.

By Mohammed Shafeeq

eat, pray, balance T

he daily fasting period – up to 15 hours – is the longest in 32 years in the Middle East. This makes Ramadan a real test of strength and determination this year, but with a healthy, balanced approach including diet, sleep, and exercise – our bodies needn’t suffer. During this time of celebrations with family and friends, we all have an opportunity to turn our diets and bad eating habits around, and maybe even lose a few kilograms in the process. The key is to approach Ramadan in a healthy, balanced way.

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LIFESTYLE WHAT TO CHOOSE AND WHAT TO AVOID THIS RAMADAN To help you choose the right foods during the holy month, here is a simple guide, loaded with many healthy food choices to keep you energetic and well-fed.

Meat and Other Proteins

Feasting is not advised during breaking of fast.

Always break the fast with fluids, fruits, and vegetables.

According to Jishy Seby, diet consultant at KIMS Oman Hospital, to maintain long hours of fasting it is essential to drink lots of fluids during night and avoid caffeinated beverages that can lead to dehydration. So fluid replenishment should be your first priority. Your number one choice for hydration should be water since it is free of calories and quenches the body. It is vital to consume at least two litres during the non-fasting hours to maintain balanced hydration.

“Water plays a significant role in weight loss and maintenance because it helps to get rid of toxins and reduces the feeling of hunger. Try not to drink large quantities of water all at once, or a lot during a meal. Instead, drink water between your meals and drink small quantities of water throughout the Ramadan nights.

In addition to water, try fresh fruits or vegetable juices rather than sweetened ones,” Jisha Ciril, a practising physician says.

Take it Easy at Iftar “The body’s immediate need at the time of Iftar is to get an easily available energy source in the form of glucose, particularly for brain and nerve function. An Iftar meal should include plenty of water, sugar-free fresh juices, and water-rich fruits. So it is advisable to break the fast in traditional way with dates and fruit juice or water.

Dates provide energy in the form of sugar and are also high in vitamins A and B6, folic acid, potassium, natural sodium, iron and magnesium, as well as large amounts of dietary fibre, which can prevent constipation. Juice and water help

to maintain water and mineral balance in the body. Iftar can then be followed by soups and cereals,” says Jishy Seby.

“Iftar should always start with a source of simple sugar to compensate for energy lost during the long fasting hours and nothing beats dates for that,” agrees Dr Prasant, a consulting physician in Ibri. “Along with dates, a cup of laban could be consumed as a good source of minerals and protein for the body. A cup of warm, noncreamy soup helps the stomach to receive food with better digestion and less discomfort.”

He recommends leaving ten minutes between breaking the fast and starting the main meal for the stomach to start warming up and working.

With a wide spread to choose from, eating healthy at an elaborate Iftar can sometimes feel like a remote dream. But with a bit of self-discipline and smart choices, it’s possible to eat well and keep the scale happy.

Prepare foods made from fresh ingredients, rather than processed snacks, and choose healthy dishes when dining out that are made with minimal fat and salt.

The main meal should include lean proteins, such as grilled fish or chicken; low-glycemic carbohydrates, such as brown rice or boiled sweet potatoes; and vegetables, either raw or cooked with a little oil.

“Oily, spicy and deep fried foods should be avoided to prevent acidity and bloating, which are the most common complaints during fasting. And including fibre rich foods, like fruits and vegetables, will help to prevent constipation,” adds Jishy.

Choose Ċ Fish Ċ Grilled or boiled skinless chicken or turkey Ċ Lean veal or lamb Ċ Moderate amounts of prawns Ċ Legumes such as beans, lentils, and peas Ċ Eggs (egg yolk) 3 times per week (including eggs in cooked foods) Avoid Ċ Fried chicken and duck Ċ Fatty meats Ċ Liver and organ meats Ċ Hotdog and sausages Ċ Large amounts of prawn, shrimp, and shellfish

Milk and Dairy Choose Ċ Skimmed or low-fat milk Ċ Skimmed or low-fat yoghurt and labneh Ċ Low-fat cheese Avoid Ċ Whole milk Ċ Ice cream and whipped cream Ċ Full cream yoghurt and labneh Ċ Full cream cheeses, especially highly processed yellow cheeses

Fruits and Vegetables Choose Ċ Vegetables that are fresh, boiled, baked, steamed, or cooked with a little oil Ċ Vegetables simply seasoned or dressed with lemon juice or a little oil Ċ Fresh fruits and natural fruit juice (in moderation)

Manage Diabetes Diabetes management becomes more difficult when Ramadan falls during the northern-hemisphere summer, as it does now, because the period of fasting is longer, and thus the two meals of the day are eaten closer together. Add to that the heat, and diabetics are faced with an increased risk of dehydration, according to experts.

Islamic law does not require fasting when it would create a physical danger, but many diabetics choose to try to maintain their fasts. But such patients should first get the detailed guidelines from their physician or endocrinologist on managing their diabetes while fasting.

“A person having good control of diabetes and blood pressure can fast by taking medicine at proper time and monitoring frequently,” adds Jishy. And remember it’s the best time of the year to stop smoking.

Avoid Ċ Fried vegetables Ċ Boiled vegetables with butter Ċ Juices with added sugar

Feast After Fast?

Doctors say that there is usually a rise in the number of hospital patients with stomach problems after the start of Ramadan. Emergency departments use to have an influx of people with stomach problems, linked to over-eating during the Iftar meal and kidney problems because of dehydration during fasting hours.

Dr Prasant says, “Ramadan has fallen in weather that was significantly warmer than in previous years, and right now the fasting days are much longer.

Bread and Grains That means extra preparation and knowledge of what to eat during non-fasting hours is essential to good health and endurance during the entire month.”

“Feasting is not advised during breaking of fast. Always break the fast with fluids and fruits and vegetables. Try to avoid oily food for opening the fast,” said Jishy.

“A basic tip is to follow balanced diet during Ramadan and to eat lots of fruits and vegetables. It is also important not to miss morning meal (Suhoor).”

Choose Ċ Arabic or brown bread Ċ Plain spaghetti or rice (without ghee or high fat sauce) Ċ Grains with no added fat Ċ Baked or boiled potatoes Avoid Ċ Pastries that contain large amounts of fat (doughnuts, croissants, Danish pastries) Ċ Fried potato chips/ French fries Ċ Sweetened Kaak and desserts Ċ Fried rice

S U N DAY, JU N E 2 8, 2 0 1 5

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LIFESTYLE BRIEFS

Try High BP linked to reduced Alzheimer’s risk

Why Here are a few simple, time-tested foods, techniques, and remedies to try, and a bit about why. Have you tried any of these tricks? How did you like them? Do you have a favourite remedy of

Ginger for colds Ginger is a tonic root, grown by the Indians and Chinese for over 5000 years for its curative properties, especially for treating colds and flu as it boosts the immune system with its antiviral properties. Consume a small slice of ginger soaked in a spoonful of honey or immerse grated ginger in a cup of boiling water and inhale the steam to relieve nasal congestion.

your own? Tell us about it at lifestyle@timesofoman.com

People with a genetic tendency to high blood pressure (BP) have a lower risk for Alzheimer’s disease, a new study has found. But the connection may have more to do with anti-hypertension medication than high blood pressure itself. “It’s likely that this protective effect is coming from antihypertensive drugs,” said coauthor John Kauwe, associate professor of biology at Brigham Young University, US. The study analysed genetic data from 17,008 individuals with Alzheimer’s and 37,154 people without the disease. The team looked for links between Alzheimer’s disease and a number of health conditions — including diabetes, obesity and high cholesterol.

But the team only found a significant association between higher systolic blood pressure and reduced Alzheimer’s risk.

The study appeared in the journal Plos Medicine.

Frequent snacking may give a pot belly Repeated snacking even in the absence of hunger may put you at risk of unhealthy weight gain, says a new study. “Eating too frequently, especially when we are not hungry, is a major potential cause of weight gain,” said study author Stephanie Fay who conducted the study at Queensland University of Technology in Australia.

“Excessive portion size and energy-dense foods are often blamed for weight gain but the frequency of eating is a significant contributor too,” said Fay, now based in London with the World Cancer Research Fund. The study was published in the international journal Eating Behaviours.

New drug combination slows deadly leukemia

Honey for good sleep Raw honey contains bee pollen as well as a high content of antimicrobial agents and antioxidants, which make it much better for you than commercial honey that is heated and processed. Raw honey is known to promote good sleep at night. Add a tablespoon of raw honey to warm milk to help increase melatonin, a natural compound that will help you sleep soundly. It also counteracts indigestion.

Meditation Meditation is a way of quietening and training the mind. There are many techniques of meditation but the easiest one to begin with is the concentrative meditation technique. Sit in a comfortable position and focus on a single object, repeating a single word or listening to a repetitive song for a full minute. This is a sure way of improving concentration. You can begin with one minute, go up to a few minutes, and slowly increase your meditation span.

Care for your heart DECODING DOCTOR

By Hubert Vaz

THE INCIDENCE of heart disease among younger populations has been increasing the world over, as well as in Oman, and the key cause worldwide has been faulty lifestyles.

According to Dr Mohammad Tarek Al Dairi, Cardiologist, Al Hayat International Hospital, coronary artery disease is the number one killer the world over. In a brief chat, Dr Dairi answers some key queries: What are the main causes of heart disease in Oman?

You can suffer from heart disease if you have either a stressful or a lazy lifestyle. The main causes include

high blood pressure, high blood glucose levels, obesity, faulty food habits and a sedentary lifestyle with little activity. In Oman, in particular, people indulge in less activity and are always seen using their cars instead of walking, even short distances. Secondly, they consume a lot of fast food, which is not good for health.

Has the incidence of heart disease in Oman increased over the past few years?

There has been an increase in heart patients seen by us every year, but a large number of these actually come in for precautionary check-

ups. The people in cities are more educated about the consequences of heart disease but those from the interiors tend to come in at advanced stages when little can be done to treat them.

Does juvenile obesity contribute towards heart disease later in life?

Juvenile obesity does contribute towards heart disease at a later stage. Many youngsters have bad habits like consuming fast food in large quantities regularly, which leads to obesity. They tend to develop high blood sugar as well as

other complications which later lead to heart disease. Also, such children do not indulge in sports and it is the parents’ duty to see that they have adequate physical activity every day.

What precautions should youngsters take to stay away from heart disease?

Avoid addictions like smoking, alcohol consumption. Take up daily exercise like walking, take up a competitive sport, like football, at least once a week, consume a healthy diet, sleep early at night and visit the doctor.

How often and when must one take up regular checkups?

It is good to take up regular check-

A new combination therapy for a rare, deadly leukemia can send the disease into remission even in patients whose standard therapy has failed, researchers have found in a pilot study.

The new approach to battling T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia combines immunotherapy — boosting the body's immune system — with epigenetics, the manipulation of gene activity.

The study was published online in the journal Science Translational Medicine. -IANS

ups after the age of 30, especially if you have a family history of hypertension, diabetes. Usually the probability of developing heart disease is somewhat the same for men and women till the age of 40. After the age of 40 the risk for men increases over that of women but after the age of 45-50 (following menopause), women again have the same risk as men.

If one has a family history of heart disease, will the risk be higher?

Everything depends on the type of heart disease in the family. Some disorders are genetically linked, some are not. But, if one takes all the necessary precautions, one can substantially reduce the chances of developing heart disease.

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SU N DAY, JUNE 28, 2015

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Sinaw

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20:50

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Ruwi Marmul Ruwi Ruwi

19:50 13:15 22:30 07:30

07:00

06:00

Marmul

16:30

Daily

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15:00

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07:00

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Premam (Mal) (Comedy) Cast: Nivin Pauly, Anupama Parameshwaran and Sai Pallavi 10:00 pm at Cinema Main

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Cast: Varun Dhawan, Shraddha Kapoor,

45 34 Minimum

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(Horror) Cast: Frank Cuervo, Pixie Davies, Alejandro Furth

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OUT OF THE DARK (2D)

(Mal) (Com) Cast: Nivin Pauly, Anupama Parameshwaran

WEATHER

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (ROUTE 36)

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Premam (2D) (PG) (Romance, Comedy) Cast: Nivin Pauly, Anupama Parameshwaran,

QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (ROUTE 36) Quriyat Sur Jaalan

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Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; Ăź Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; Ăź Ăş Ăť Ăż

C11

LIFESTYLE ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

ACUPUNCTURE An alternate therapy, for relieving pain, acupuncture involves the painless insertion of very thin needles through the skin at strategic points.

Hubert Vaz reports

Get a Ramadan Glow If you have been longing for vibrant, glowing skin, this Ramadan could be your chance to change a few key eating habits to improve your overall skin health. Here is a rundown of some of the most important nutrients for maintaining healthy, beautiful skin.

By Monika Seth Beta-carotene Some of the most potent time-defying nutrients that prevent skin drying and dehydration, encouraging smooth texture, are antioxidants like beta-carotene.

Vitamin C This vitamin plays a crucial role in keeping the skin vibrant and wrinkle-free so include plenty of vitamin C rich foods in your everyday diet.

Good sources include: Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; *,# ).Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; ,,).Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; " Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; (. &)/* Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; ,%Ĺ&#x2014;& 3Ĺ&#x2014;!, (-Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; *#( " Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; ,) )&# Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; /'*%#( Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; 1 .Ĺ&#x2014;*). .) -

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Vitamin E This potent vitamin prevents wrinkles and helps in skin regeneration to reduce the appearance of existing ďŹ ne lines.

Foods rich in E include: Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; ,%Ĺ&#x2014;!, (Ĺ&#x2014;& 3Ĺ&#x2014;0 ! . & Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; /.-Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; 1 .Ĺ&#x2014;*). .) Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; ! . & -Ĺ&#x2014;)#&Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; ")& Ĺ&#x2014;!, #(-

Get your dose with: Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; /.Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; -Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; ..3Ĺ&#x2014;Ă°-"

FOODS TO AVOID

B Vitamins This group of vitamins will not only nourish your skin, it will also help to keep your mind sharp and your energy reserves high. ( &/ Ĺ&#x2014; *& (.3Ĺ&#x2014; ) Ĺ&#x2014; #. '#(Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x161;,# "Ĺ&#x2014; foods like: Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; !!Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014; /.-Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; "# % (Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014;Ă°-" Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; )1Ĺ&#x2014; .Ĺ&#x2014; #,3Ĺ&#x2014;*,) / .Omega-3 fatty acids These healthy, essential fats play a signiďŹ cant role in keeping your skin supple and moist.

Heavily processed foods and sugar like cakes, doughnuts, biscuits, pastries, Indian sweets, deep fried foods like samosa, pakoras, fried dumplings, paranthas, caffeine based drinks like tea, coffee, aerated drinks.

Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; )Ĺ&#x2014; *, 0 (.Ĺ&#x2014; "3 , .#)(Ĺ&#x2014; /,#(!Ĺ&#x2014; fasting try to stay out of the sun and avoid drinking too much tea, coffee, sodas, and other beverages with high levels of caffeine and sugar.

HEALTHY FOODS

Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; #'Ĺ&#x2014;.)Ĺ&#x2014; )(-/' Ĺ&#x2014;Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x161;ÝúĹ&#x2014;!& -- -Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; water during non-fasting hours.

Additionally, replace your lost nutrients by drinking fresh, sug ,Ä&#x161; , Ĺ&#x2014;$/# -Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2014;

Ä&#x201E; Complex carbohydrates like wheat, oats, whole grains, whole grain bread/chapati/ khobz, beans, lentils. Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2022;Fibre rich foods like fruits and vegetables, oats, grains, whole wheat productsÄ&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2022;Plenty of ďŹ&#x201A;uids mainly water.

TAKE THE STAIRS Unlike walking, which humans have evolved to do while burning minimal amounts of energy, stair climbing is classed as a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;vigorousâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; physical activity and burns more calories per minute than jogging.

Take the stairs instead of the elevator, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll start seeing and feeling results in no time ďŹ&#x201A;at.

7 minutes

stair climbing a day cuts the risk of heart attack in half over 10 years Blast through

102 calories

walking up and down stairs for 10 minutes (for those weighing abound 72 kg)

20 minutes jogging for 10 minutes of stair climbing

Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; & (Ĺ&#x2014;3)/,Ĺ&#x2014;1 . ,Ĺ&#x2014;#(. % Ä&#x2020;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťÄ&#x161;ĂźĹ&#x2014; glasses at Iftar, 3-4 glasses in .1 (Ĺ&#x2014; . ,Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; /")),Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014; glasses at Suhoor.

The writer is nutritionist and diet consultant specialising in weight loss at Al Raffah Hospital

FITNESS MOVE OF THE WEEK

Swap

The Stuff of Life "#& Ĺ&#x2014; 3)/Ĺ&#x2014; , Ĺ&#x2014; !) &#(!Ĺ&#x2014; /*Ĺ&#x2014; ." Ĺ&#x2014; healthful foods listed, be sure to remember to replenish yourself with the most powerful anti-ageing elixir of all: water.

Burn a calorie for every 20 steps down and one for every

10 steps up

A vital part of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture has been found to be very effective for many cases where conventional medicine has failed.

In order to balance the ďŹ&#x201A;ow of energy or life force, known as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;qiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;chiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, which ďŹ&#x201A;ows across speciďŹ c pathways (meridians) along the body, tiny needles are inserted at points along these meridians to restore balance in energy ďŹ&#x201A;ows that might be disturbed due to an illness or disorder.

According to Dr Zheng Xuan, a Chinese doctor at Qurum Medical Centre, who has been practising acupuncture in Muscat for the past 15 years, â&#x20AC;&#x153;acupuncture has been in use for over a thousand years in China and it is mainly helpful for alleviating pain related to speciďŹ c ailments, especially arthritis, stiff neck, neck pain, spondylitis, and disc problems.â&#x20AC;?

She explained that energy ďŹ&#x201A;ows along different pathways along each oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body and it can be controlled from different points on these pathways. Hence, a headache is not controlled by inserting needles in the region of the head, rather along the pathway on the hands and limbs and other areas of the body that are effecting the head.

The acupuncture technique is not painful, and few cases even experience bleeding. Each session lasts for about an hour and generally each patient needs to attend around 8-10 sessions, ďŹ fteen sessions for very severe illnesses.

Dr Xuan treats a host of pain-related disorders, as well as hormonal imbalances in women, stress, depression, insomnia, and infertility, with great success, however, she does not recommend this treatment for severe disorders like heart disease, cancer, or diabetes. Patients can continue other forms of treatment, if they wish to, as acupuncture will not negatively interact with other care.

Acupuncture in Oman Approved by the Ministry of Health Each session lasts one hour Duration of treatment - 10 sessions Cost of each session â&#x20AC;&#x201C; OMR 20 Qurum Medical Centre, Madinat Al Ilam Tel:24692898 (Acupuncture therapy is also available at Khoula Hospital)

C12

SU N DAY, JUNE 28, 2015

LIFESTYLE

The Long Stretch Photos by Jun Estrada

Members of the Art of Living Foundation, Oman Chapter, held a yoga demonstration at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex to mark International Yoga Day, on June 21.

D

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M S U N DAY, J U N E 2 8 , 2 0 1 5

SECTION

CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

RENT

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VACANCY

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*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

CARGO

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S U N DAY, J U N E 2 8 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

FOR RENT

FOR RENT

New two B/R flat diretly from owner in bank Dhofar bldg Bausher.

Contact: 92158031

Building In Rusail Industrial ŶĞĂƌ ƚŽ ŵŝĂŶƟƚ KŵĂŶ comprising a store divisible area 266 sq. meters.

The building includes Studios ĂŶĚ ƌŽŽŵƐ ǁŝƚŚ ĚŝīĞƌĞŶƚ ƐŝnjĞ ƐƵŝƚĂďůĞ ĨŽƌ ŽĸĐĞƐ Žƌ residence.

Preferably to be leased to one company.

One & two bedroom apartment available for rent, near Grand Mall, close to Atlas hospital next to Diwan building. Contact: 99833747 Small old house for rent Al Ghobrah.

Contact 95112461

Mob + 968 96177505

2 BHK commercial / residential flat at Honda Road.

Contact: 99342733/99795241 Room for rent in CBD (near Costa coffee). Contact: 96568110

Furnished flats for rent in Al Buraimi, daily, weekly, monthly.

Contact 97819981 / 93593336

Showroom available 250sqm – near bank Sohar, CBD area ideal for pharmacy, clinic, Travel agency, money exchange, fast foods, departmental store etc. Contact: Tel: 24707088 fax: 24706099 GSM: 98283633 Email: alyounistrading@gmail.com 3000 sq mtrs Industrial landß, in Barka Sanaiya, with electricity 400KW, shed, staff accommodation and office. Ready to start any kind of factory. Contact 99384255.

2BHK flat + store room in CBD, Ruwi with Split A/c’s, secured access, car parking. Rent 400/.

Contact 99603696

Apartment in Al Khuwair 33/1, 4 bedroom 550/-R.O. Contact : 99340055 / 97557555

2BHK 230/- south Hail near Caledonian collage. Contact: 97717962 PL 24538790

Flats, shops and basement for rent in Khuwair, behind RAWASCO. Contact: 99441122 , 95893518

1BHK, 2BHK, 3BHK new flat available at Mabela in front of Modern English School Contact: 96239126

2 BHK Flat in Al Khuwair. Contact 99792181

3BHK & 2BHK in Darsait.

Contact 94268564

Furnished room for rent at Al Khuwair R.O 225/- for family only.

Contact: 99251975

4 BHK single villa in Al Khuwair.

Contact: 97616158

Deluxe 3&4 bedroom, hall, kitchen spacious living area with split AC, at Ghobrah. Contact: 95282986

Villa AL Ghobrah, 6 bedroom 1200/R.O. Contact: 99340055/97557555

4 & 5 BHK villa in Al Khuwair.

Contact 99792181

Basement Store, 146 SQM, Wadikhabeer, Opposit Al-Hassan.

99441193, 93004802

New building in Wadi Kabir, 2 bedroom flats. Contact: 99313274 Workshop for rent Ground floor 126 SQM. Workshop first floor 108 SQM furnished office with storage accommodation for 50 Labors.

Contact: 92410691

2BHK for commercial M.B.D R.O 300/-. Contact: 92144045 2BHK with A.C Darsait R.O 300/-.

Contact: 92144045 2BHK Wadi Kabeer R.O 300/-.

Contact: 92144045 2BHK without A.C Ghobrah R.O 325/- Contact: 92144045 Shop /Comn /Resi building 1 & 2 bed flat available in Wadi Kabir (near Lulu). Contact: 99451168 One bed rooms flat RO 200/Wadi Al Kabir. Contact: 99451168 Misfa land for rent 1000 SQM. Contact: 99451168 1 BHK flat in Al Khuwair, 2 months only. Contact 99792181 3 BHK Flat in Azaiba.

Contact 99792181

Deluxe 1, 2 BHK flats in Darsait, AL Khuwair 1deal for office & residence. Contact 99369081 /99142314 Flat at Darsait. Contact 99326879

5BHK villa available for rent, near Hamriya roundabout.

Contact-99366191 For rent brand new villa 4BD. Contact: 91963034 Flat for rent in Mabellah 8th.

Contact: 97147240

1.2.3 BHK flats. Contact: 92144045 1BHK with A/C Mumtaz. R.O 250/-.

Contact 9779175

Flat for rent Ruwi near Badr al Sama, 2 bed rooms, attach toilet in rooms big hall big kitchen.

Contact: 99345137

Two bed room flat with attached bathroom near Omani Boys School Ruwi . Contact: 91214537 Spacious room with bathroom (separate) available for small family or couples near Oman Boys School Ruwi. Contact : 91214537 Ruwi near Police Station: Flats with 4 Rooms, 1 Kitchen & 2 Bathrooms.

Contact 93387962 Seeb Souq opposite HSBC: Flat with 3 Rooms, 1 Kitchen & 2 Bathrooms and Studio at Terrace.

Contact 93387962 506sqm space with mezzanine available for rent in AL Wadi Al Kabir, Suitable for carpentry / Auto workshop and / or electrical shop interested parties may.

Contact: 24703981 AL Khuwair 2 rooms, toilet & Kitchen sharing prefer Indian couples or execute lades rent 200/- R.O include Elect & water. Contact: 99546410

1BHK flat one room, kitchen, bath room near Wadi Adai R/A. Contact : 96464598 3 Bedroom flat with 3 attached toilets, split A/C, brand new available, behind Kims Hospital.

Contact 95225662 Apartments near Al Nahdha Towers/ Vachas Hypermarket Azaiba – Ghala (1 & 2 BHK with split AC units).

Contact 94652485 / 99273774 / 99202278 1,000 sq mtrs industrial land in Misfah Industrial area near to Khanco.

OMR 1,500 Monthly. It has Electricity and boundary wall. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 500 sq mtrs office space on mezzanine floor near Royal Hospital. OMR 6.500 per sq mtr. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

For rent if require flats for rent in Wadi Kabir please send me messages through Whatsapp. Contact: 99376454 Flat for rent in Mabela 7, 2BHK + 3 bathroom 220/-R.O. Contact: 92712996 Double bedroom near Lulu Wadi Kabeer. Contact: 92022816/99468133/99719471 2 BHK Flats for rent Muttrah near Oman house.

Contact: 97009734/92629232 Shop/Office 68 SQM, Wadi kabeer, Opposite Al-Hassan. Contact 99441193, 93004802 3BHK flat for rent in Al Khuwair.

Villa type building with only 2 flats, separate entrance, fully renovated.

Way No. 3922, building No 1839, behind Al Aktham Restaurant.

Contact: 99462980 Flat for rent in CBD Ruwi.

Contact : 92820734 New flats for rent in Wadi Kabir.

Contact : 92130703 / 96045478

Flat for rent in AL Wadi AL Kabir next to Kuwaiti Mosque 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, balcony & 1 living room 220/-R.O Contact: 99425958 Brand new warehouse 3500SQM (2800SQM built up area) at Rusayl industrial area adjacent to Amiantit Oman with ceiling fans, light fittings, extract fans &provision for ACs. Contact: 94652485/99273774/99202278 Apartments for rent near Indian school Ghobrah & AL Maha international hotel (2BHK with 5 split AC units) Contact: 94652485/99273774/99202278 Apartments for rent near Al Nahdha Towers/ Vachas hypermarket Azaiba Ghala (1& 2 BHK with split AC units) Contact: 94652485/ 99273774/ 99202278 2BHK with split AC near PDO Gate no -2 at Qurum. Contact: 94057023 2BHK with split AC at Al Khuwair 33. Contact: 94057023 For rent in Darsait new flats.

Contact: 99777351 Luxury 3 BHK flat in Al Wattaya with split A/C & private parking.

RO.500/- Contact – 93191111 Villa of 5 BHK in Al Ansab with split A/C. RO.650/- Contact – 93191111 2 BHK flat in Al Ansab with split A/C. RO.250/- Contact – 93191111 Villa for rent - Al Seeb/Al Mawelah - Block 5 - 4 bedrooms with attached bathrooms, Majlis, 2 halls, kitchen and storeroom. split Ac and carpark.

Contact 99564616

Brand new 6 BHK villa in Al Azaiba with split A/C & lift. RO.1200/Contact – 93191111

Apartments near Indian School Ghubra (2 BHK with 5 split AC units).

Contact 94652485 / 99273774 / 99202278

Flat in South Al Hail, 2 bedrooms, Majlis, 2 bathrooms, kitchen RO 250/-. Contact 93221474

2 BHK flat in Al Azaiba near sea, with split A/C. RO.340/- # 93191111

Flat in Ruwi Mumtaz 2 BHK RO 300 or 1 BHK 250 RO. Contact 98588240

For rent 3 industrial land.

Contact 92702891/ 95490842

Flats for rent behind Indian School.

Contact 99777122

Flats shops and store for rent in Ruwi, MBD Honda road.

Contact 97293708 / 92433127

3 rooms with attached bath room, hall Brand new in Mabelah near Sharahe Noor. Contact 99663905/ 99415119

FOR SALE

12 Ton Volvo Truck Monthly lease or rent with driver. Contact: 98713900

Villa for rent (family residence) : New 4 bedroom villa with majlis, family hall and outside kitchen. With split AC in Al Khoudh phase 7 close to Seeb polyclinic. Call 99332525 (owner).

2 bedroom flat at Hamriya, main road with A/C. Contact 99331448

Office / shop near Oman house Muttrah. Contact: 99233116

Bath attached room for rent Al Khuwair. Contact 99743569 Commercial 3 BHK flat in Al Ghobra 18 Nov Street. RO 700/Contact 93191111

Labour Camp for Rent in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 99792181

Villa for rent in Al Khuwair 33, 8 bedrooms & 5 bathrooms with parking area near Taimur Mosque.

Contact: 99366624

Three bedroom flats for rent near NIT Institute Darsait.

Contact: 93494098

2 BHK, 2 baths, Split A/C, Wadi kabeer, Near Indian Elementary School.

Contact 99441193, 93004802

For rent in Darsait, new flats.

Contact: 99311525

Shops at Muttrah opposite Port Service Building on Main Road.

Contact 93387962

Luxurious villa in Mumtaz area, Ruwi with 3BR, 2 Lounges, Dining, car park, kitchen. Contact: 99430943

Room with bath AC furnished AL Khuwair.

Contact: 97004265/99643569

Shop/Office, 56 SQM, Wadikabeer, Opposite Al-Hassan.

Contact 99441193, 93004802

Flats/villas owned by ROP pension fund available for rent in Muscat. Contact 99349526

Clinic for sale in al amerat.

Contact:93753655 Telecom and net work accessories shop for sale Ruwi.

Contact: 99481931 6 bedroom, 6 bath rooms, sitting & dining villa at Qurum.

Contact: 99342733 Darsait near Labor Card medical Business office furniture for sale / rent 260/- Contact: 93893878 pm Grade IT company with 5 clearances & oil Gas activity for sale serious buyers. Contact: 99329216 Car polishing shop for sale or lease.

Contact: 98903073 Fully decorated & Equipped kitchen cabinet and marble showroom for sale at Mabela industrial area road no – 10 only serious buyers can.

Contact: 99337670/97763560 Household furniture for sale.

Contact: 97094797 60,000 Sq Mtrs Agriculture Land in Misfah, can be changed to Industrial Land. OMR 29 Per Square Meter.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Well furnished meat shop in Amerat. Contact: services customers. Contact 92454250/96374850 Villa for sale in Al Khoudh close to Dan super market, 3room , 3 bathroom , 1 hall ,1 setting room, 1 store , kitchen & maid room with garden plot 600sq with car parking selling price 135.000/-. Contact: 91010668 Commercial land for sale 3000 m in quriyat road main high way can use as a petrol station license available asking price 350,000 For more information please call on 99070701 with out name 3 floor commercial building in Muttrah behind Police. Generating income of OMR 18 Thousand annually. Neat and well maintained. Built on 197 sq mtrs land. 2 tailor shops on ground floor and 6 flats. OMR 207 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Training center with license.

Contact: 91121277

S U N DAY, J U N E 2 8 , 2 0 1 5

D3

DAILY GUIDE

MOTOR VEHICLE FOR SALE

AVAILABLE

NRI

ACC. AVAILABLE Bed space available for exbachelors at Al Khuwair.

Contact: 94143636 Furnished bedroom with Sep – bathroom, sharing, and kitchen for ex- bachelors at AL Khuwair.

Contact: 99636550

2.5 BHK Flat for sale having 1260 sq ft and Vehicle Parking space of 144 Sq ft. At Bhrama Avenue, NIBM Road, Pune. Contact 93068804 / 99263581

ACC. WANTED Required a room or studio flat in Darsait / WadiKabir /Ruwi area.

Contact : 95405033

FOR SALE 2,560 sq mtrs industrial land in Wadi Kabir main road, First line on way to Al Bustan hotel. Possible to make petrol station or hotel. OMR 990 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 5 Flats of 1 bedroom for Sale in Boushar: OMR 35 Thousand each.

Monthly income OMR 270 Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 23,886 Sq Mtrs Agriculture land with water well in Al Salwa, Barka.

OMR 260 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

A/C attached furnished single room with separate bathroom available for executive bachelor near Grand Hypermarket Ruwi.

Contact: 95149047/96567139 Fully furnished 1BHK with all household items in Darsait near Lulu on monthly Basis. Contact : 99378397 One room for rent (A/C +bed +bath) at Al Khuwair. Contact: 99382008 Large room Sep/ Entrance furnished Wadi Kabir. Contact 99336206 Furnished single /sharing room for ex bachelor at Rex Road with WIFI available. Contact 92873832 Excellent room, with A/C kitchen available for bachelor / family near ONTC bus station (Ruwi).

Contact: 95885736 Furnished room with attached bathroom in W/K. Contact: 97167857 Single furnished room.

Contact: 24833609 Furnished bath, attached sharing accommodation available behind Al Nahdha hospital.

Contact: 99030037

Party & Wedding equipment rentals.

Full line, from Tables, Linen & Skirting, Chairs & Chair covers, Cutlery, Crockery, Glassware, Chafing Dishes, Ice Sculptures, to Large Sound Systems and spectacular lighting. Call Andrea 9606 2222 for Catering and Croyden 9623 5555 for Sound & Light. www.tunesoman.com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com

ACC. AVAILABLE

Suzuki Vitara 2007, 95000km, single owner, for sale. Contact: 92183619

BUSINESS

Sharing for non cooking executive bachelor in CBD area WIFI free, Advance deposit. Contact: 95094504 Excellent room, with A/C kitchen available near ONTC bus station for family / bachelor (Ruwi).

Contact 95569740

Dodge Challenger SRT Gulf spec.

Expat owned Warranty and insurance by the end of 2015 Perfect exterior and interior. All service done at the original Dodge service Price slightly negotiable 65750 km 2010 Automatic, price: 9500/- OMR. Contact - 95909465

Single room attached toilet & bath for Executive bachelor rent including electricity & water.

Contact: 99327158 Independent rooms in Qurum / Al Hail. Contact 95529970

TRANSPORTATION

Acc. opp. OK Center for non cooking bachelor. Contact 95126452 between 2 pm & 4 pm only.

Contact 95126452 Sharing flat in Wadi Kabir.

Contact: 99335057 One room separate bathroom for Indian Executive bachelor near Al Khuwair R/A. Contact: 99659513 Furnished attached bathroom at Mumtaz area. Contact: 93103337 / 95212017 Furnished single rooms available for Executive bachelors at Ruwi.

Contact: 98049288 Furnished room attached bath for lady in Wadikabir (Mars Hypermarket) – 95941515

Nissan Altima 2.55, 2008 Model, Metallic Gold Colour, 60, 000 K.M, Excellent condition, all routine maintenance updated & all four tyres new, owned by diplomat & driven by owner. Contact 24684534/91382680

Land Cruiser 2012. #99336093 Echo 2002 for sale 300.000 km only last price R.O 1000/-.Contact 95119655 For Sale Toyota Echo 2004 Model, Registration up to Dec. 2015 Please Contact: 99038311 Peugeot 206-2007 Model, expat driven. Contact 99209285 Expatriate driven Yaris 2008 model 100,000 kms & land rover 2005 model 93000 Kms, excellent conditions. Contact : 97094797 2 Prime Movers Man 2008 with 40 ton petrol tank each working at the moment in Al Maha. Price OMR 35 Thousand each. Contact 97000155 or 92688692

Transportation. Contact 99508282 Pick & drop any time. Contact: 98522914 / 99512270 General Investors. Contact 99674870

Transportation. Contact: 98178135

LOST Guramma Obulam has lost Indian Passport No. K 4776925. Finder please handover to ROP

Transportation. Contact: 98505294

ACC. AVAILABLE

Transportation. Contact: 98244078 Transportation. Contact: 95190627

Single room with sharing kitchen available for executive bachelor near Saud Bahwan Residency Complex, Wadi Kabir. Contact: 99024362, 93166353.

Rooms available with separate bathroom for executive bachelors in azaiba near al meera hyper market.

Gsm 99053844

Pick & Drop anytime Contact: 91653903 Pick & Drop any time. Contact: 97014786 Pick & drop with car & driver available any time. Contact: 9615828/ 96502406/92218001

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

D4

S U N DAY, J U N E 2 8 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT

ADMIN Vacancy for Omani PRO Email: abid673@yahoo.com Mob 94192526 Urgently Required: Administration with an experience minimum in 3 years in building construction, required immediately join and MUST have NOC. Apply, fax 00968–24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com.

Urgently Required: Administration with an experience minimum in 3 years in building construction, required immediately join and MUST have NOC.Apply, fax 00968–24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com.

Vacancy for Omani PRO for Customs duties in Sohar. Email: arabianseabridge@gmail.com, Mob: 97990844

ACCOUNTANT Urgently required female accountant with an experience minimum 3years Email CV on cv.hrcharty@gmail.com Reputed Construction Company required Accountant experience in Construction Company with accountancy degree. Email: jvacancy05@gmail.com Required Accountant with 3 yrs. exp. in construction company.

Email : wadcocareers@gmail.com Urgently required Junior Accountant.

Please send CV: hr.azatllc@gmail.com

BEAUTICION Required Beautician for Beauty Saloon at Ghubra. Clearance / visa available. Contact no. 95924910

CATERING Chinese/ Arab/ continental cook & helper wanted. Contact 95529970 Requires experience Cook for an Omani family 1Nos. Contact: 99228046 Email: oman518@gmail.com Chinese / Arab / Continental cook & helper wanted. Contact 95529970 Family in Muscat seeking to hire an experienced butler. Hotel experience is preferred. Candidate must hold a valid driver’s license.

Please send CV’s on vacancyinmuscat@gmail.com

DOMESTIC HELPER Cook required for an Omani family having experience in preparing all kinds of Omani & Arabic food.

Minimum 5 years experience. Send CV to abfarsi@omtel.net.om or fax to 24706990, Tel. 24786072 Housemaid wanted for an Indian family in Al Hail. Must be able to cook and take care of baby. Full-time position. 96532872 Small Omani family wanted educated female House maid visa is available. Contact - 98500222 Keralite family in MBD area (near pizza hut) want a Keralite housemaid on fulltime basis. Contact 94736916.

Required looking for full time Housemaid for Omani family at Mabela, visa available.

Contact 92454170

DOMESTIC HELPER

SALES / MARKETING

Urgently needed full time, live-in house maid for cooking Indian nonveg. food. Visa will be given. Maids with release will be preferred.

Contact 99349924.

A leading marketing company is looking for outdoor Sales Executives on part time or full time basis in Salalah.

Contact – 92760281 / 96436719 Marketing Executive for printing press. Contact 93201718 Email: alqariyaprintingpress@gmail.com

DRIVER Required Heavy Duty Truck Driver holding Omani driving license w/ 5 years experience please contact 92001111

A reputed media company required female Marketing Executives with minimum 3 years experiences in Public relations, punishing & advertising (with driving license).

Contact: 93946622 or FW: CV job0808@gmail.com

Indian driver required for light vehicle with construction experience.

Contact: 92888337

DESIGNER

A leading trading company is looking for Sales Executives & outdoor sales coordinators with driving license & release /NOC. Email CV: alhajoil@omantel.net.om or fax: 24701683

Required Large format printer operator – for HP. Graphic Designer.

Send CV to hr.oman@yahoo.com

EDUCATION Teachers required: Teachers for KG, Grade I to IV class in English, Maths, Science, Computer & Art. Qualification: Degree in relevant subjects & B Ed; IELTS or TOFEL plus two years experience preferred. Please apply to: burj@alhakkim.com Required professional Teachers for teaching Science, Mathematics, Accountancy, Business Studies & English IELTS/ TOFEL in schools & Universities. Contact 99674870

ENGINEER Urgent requirement Civil Engineers Nos for Supervision 8 yrs experience. Contact: 99244481/24551029 Email: secons.engineers@gmail.com Leading Construction Company requires Project Engineer, Degree holder with minimum 5 to 6 years experience in building construction line. (NOC require) Send your CV to – degree.engineer2015@gmail.com Required Site Supervisor with 5 yrs. exp. in construction company, electronic technician with 3 yrs experience in gate motors systems.

Email : wadcocareers@gmail.com Leading Construction company requires HSE Officer with minimum 4 to 5 years experience in building construction line. Send your CV : hseoman2015@gmail.com (NOC require).

Construction Company in Oman urgently requires following candidates: BE Civil Engineer, minimum 3-5 years gulf experience & Civil site foreman, minimum 5 years gulf experience, diploma not required.

Email: applyforoman@gmail.com Construction Company in Oman urgently requires the following: B.Sc Civil Engineer, minimum 3-5 yrs Gulf experience. Civil Site Foreman, minimum 5 yrs experience with operating knowledge of Tally. Please Email CV ; applyforoman@gmail.com Urgently required for a first grade construction company Graduate Civil Engineer (5 years experienced) shuttering carpenter mason (Block, Plaster, Tile Fixing) Civil Foreman building work. Contact: 24700373/ 99427674 Fax: 24701368 Email: rajma@omantel.net.om

HOSPITALITY Chef for Yacht. International cuisine.

Minimum 15 years chef experience. alibadawy@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Mason, C.C.T.V, Technician, Electrician cum Plumber.

Contact - 99383044 Well established company in selling chocolate, Arabian sweets and fresh flowers, opening ITS first branch in Muscat seeking: 1- sweets and chocolates Sales man 2- flower arranger (Asian/ Filipino Nationality) Contact: 94490011 Email: labelleoman@gmail.com JCB operator -2 JCB operator with GCC valid license expect Saudi Arabia & Egypt, min.3 yrs exp. Required & L/D driver-1 min, 5 yrs exp with valid GCC driving license & site Engineer civil -1 diploma with 5 to 8 years experience & foreman civil-1- 5 years experience of multistory building.

Contact: Fax: 24501448 Email: rajesh@almatllc.com or accounts@almatllc.com A company from UAE require 2 merchandisers in retail food supply, store keeper with English and invoicing experience. Email: yesterdaysun@hotmail.com Urgently required: (1) female dermatologist with minimum 3 years experience (2) female Omani reception coordinator for a medical center in Qurum. Contact: 96062933

MANAGER Urgently Required: Male – handles overall store operations of the Supermarket, Prior Experience a MUST, knowledgeable in MSOffice. Send CV to chanda@dolphin-oman.com or fax to 244-92718.

MEDICAL

Urgently required outdoor Sales Executive for furnishing company with valid Oman D/L and minimum 3 years experience. Contact 93231403 / rainbowfurnishing156@gmail.com Required male or female candidate with 5 years experience in renting of properties. Interested candidates may please mail to alqurumprop@gmail.com Minimum 2 years of experience with valid gulf light driving license interested candidates please Contact: 99222086 /98585851 Need crane operator having two years experience & need salesman for mobile shop having two years experience. Contact: 92891888 Marketing Executive for digital printing company. Contact: 94356769 / 96936564 Required sales man for spare parts shop preferably with driving license.

Contact : 96378289 Required Sales man - 1 Person Qualification. Gulf Experienced - Minimum 5 Years with Oman Driving Licence Language - English Education:- Any Degree Further Contact :Mr. Abdul Hameed Nashabat - Mobile No: 97414307 and -92807399 amn@yaqeeneng.com Required Salesman, Tailor and Barber. Contact: 96964767 Looking for Outdoor Salesman for heavy equipment spare parts.

Contact - 93292015, Email: mail.om@gulfcenter.co Wanted Sales man with Oman driving license in advertising company visa ready. Contact: 96440587 / 94055643 Urgently required Sales and Marketing Executive for Graphic designing company. Contact: 96727631 mail: smartgraphic518@gmail.com

SKILLED

Specialist physiotherapy is required from the Philippines preferably has a license to practice.

Contact :91257624 Email: belgouthii@yahoo.fr

Urgently required a silk Screen printer with good knowledge and release letter or NOC. Contact: 93280288 or send CV to albayanstamps@gmail.com

Urgently required G.P doctor with or without MOH license for one month from 01/07/2015. Contact 93824902

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE

Required Gynecology, General Physician, Dentist, Staff Nurses, Lab technicians, Pharmacists, X Ray technicians.

Contact : 95133572 / 96064925 Email: kunoozghala@gmail.com

Required Office Assistant 160+25+Acc, Contact 99454425

SITUATION WANTED SIT. WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Male 24, B.Com /PGD having 2 years experience in accounts and inventory field looking for suitable job on visit visa. Contact: 94129550 Accounts part time, up to finalization of monthly accounts. Handled by a CA. contact 96293120 Young lady MBA finances 10 yr exp in Finance exp management.

Contact: 93201929 Chartered Accountant with ICWA Inter having 5 years experience in Finance, Accounts, Costing, Budgeting, Insurance, Treasury & Banking operations - NOC Available + Oman Driving License Contact : 97881548 Email-financecost2@gmail.com Accountant 8 yrs experience looking part time job. Contact 99867456 Looking for accounting and Administration job have two and half years experience in United Arab Emirates in a trading company and I have bachelor degree in Administration nationality Indian. Contact: 93016252 Indian male, well experienced in accounts and Admin looking for a suitable vacancy Noc available.

Contact: 98717938 Senior accountant Indian male 35 years, MBA (finance) 8 years experience in a multinational FMCG company with valid Oman D/L NOC available can join immediately, looking for suitable position finance.

Contact: 95645945 Young, energetic 24, ACCA finalist, Advanced diploma in Accounting and business, seeking suitable placement in accounts, finance or audit.

Contact: 92430152 Email: rau_dey@yahoo.com 13 years exp (7.5 years gulf exp) B.Com Graduate, looking for Accountant job, GSM No:-92957064 with NOC. Indian male, 30 years, CMA (Inter), M.com.4 out of 7 years experience in Oman in Auditing/Accounts/Finance.

Having NOC and valid Oman D/L. Contact: 96746420 Email: sijuthampi@ymail.com Sudanese female MBA experience 5 years in Banking sectors, 1 years exp. as Accountant in Oman seeking for a suitable job. Contact : 92962621 Email: hindkameir@gmail.com Indian male, 32 years, M. Com. 7 out of 9 years experience in Oman in Accounts/finance. Having NOC and valid Oman D/L. Contact 98277143, Email: anzarks@gmail.com Indian male, with B.Com 1 year experience in Accounts or Sales, on visit visa, Cont... 98295101 Senior Document Controller MCA Indian male 9+ year’s total experience 5+ years experience in Gulf in oil & gas sector and construction field on visit visa in Oman. Contact: 95388197 Email: rojanchristopher@gmail.com Indian male, B.Com, well experienced in Accounts & Admin, knowledge of Tally ERP 9 experience in Oman with valid Oman driving license. NOC available, looking for suitable job in Oman, join immediately.

Contact 94245039 Sudanese Accountant seeking job in Nizwa state experience 10 years 3 years in Saudi Arabia, 7 yrs in Sudan.

Contact : 97796394 / 94003247

MBA Indian male looking for suitable position having 2 years working experience as an accountant now in Oman a visiting visa.

Contact 99424803 Indian male 22 yrs B. Com Graduate 1 year exp in Accounts, currently on visit visa. Looking for suitable job.

Contact 94341848 / Email – mohdhaji7272@gmail.com Accounts & finance Indian male B.com M.B.A (F) Tally ERP9, 35 years, 8 years experience 1.5 years Oman family visa N.O.C available.

Contact: 93257426 Email: sibigeorp@gmail.com Accounts part time works up to finalization on monthly basis. Profit & loss A/C and financial statements, MS Reports Etc. Contact: 96247295 MBA Graduate with 6 yrs exp in finance/accounts/ auditing. Specialized in accounts payable dept, Oracle app user, proficient in Sap (fico) end user & tally 9.0. lean &six sigma certified trainer on visit visa.

Contact – 91967213 / 99064780 Finance Manager, CPA, with more than 15 yrs. of experience in GCC. Fully knowledgeable in Finance, General & Management Accounting . NOC available. Contact 96209331 ACCA affiliate , BSc Honors in applied Accountancy advance diploma in Accounting and Business, CAT Affiliate 1 year hand on working experience of Oman, with Oman driving license looking for a suitable placement in Audit firm. Having NOC can join immediately. Contact : 98989970 Motivated and energetic male 25 having 4 years of experience in finance with Master’s degree in Economics and CAT Certified seeking opportunity in Accounts/finance/ audit in a reputable organization.

Cell no: 00968-94626209 E-Mail: omerjawedshah@gmail.com Indian male with total 5 year experience (2 years experience in Accountant cum sales co ordinator in a FMCG Company in Oman) in accounts field and NOC available. Looking for suitable job Contact 92130188 Indian Accountant: Male, M com, 7 Yrs experience in Accounts up to finalization, having knowledge of ERP, Tally, seeks suitable placment.Contact 93950138 Email: lijinrajan123@gmail.com Indian male, B.Com, 1 year Exp in Accounts/ Sales, on Visit Visa,..

Contact – 98295101 Senior Accountant 13 years experience FMCG & retail Noc available.

Contact: 93473942

ADMIN Over 14 years of gulf experience in Admin /HR /Logistics, fluent in Arabic & English with D/L looking for suitable position.

Contact 95824598 Indian female with 10 yrs of experience in HR/Banking/Operations seeks a suitable placement.

Can be contacted on 98919015 or sherianne.coelho@gmail.com Indian female 29 MBA (HR) BSc, 4 yrs exp in HR& Admin looking suitable placement.

Contact : 95619537

S U N DAY, J U N E 2 8 , 2 0 1 5

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DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED

ENGG. / TECHNICAL

ADMIN Indian Female MBA 3 Year Experience in Admin MIS, Family Visa.

Contact - 98234427, jkjsmith01@gmail.com Indian Female: B.Com & MBA-HR. looking for full or part time job immediately. Prior recruitment experience in Muscat and India.98460262.

System administrator with 3 years experience hold a degree, MCITP, CCNA , CCTV biometric , seeking job in a company.

Contact: 99630084/98129845 Indian male 2+yrs oman exp in HR. joing immediatly. release available.

Contact :93671437 MBA (international business) from London, 4 years of UK experience in operations with D/L, looking for suitable position. Contact 91710075 Male admin/ HR office 6 years exp with NOC. Contact: 93275467 Buyer / Purchases / Administration / Stores with 7+ years local experience seeking suitable placement.

NOC available. Contact – 94045405 Indian Male 27Yrs, Having 6+ yrs (3 India + 3 Oman) experience in HR/ Admin looking for suitable position Contact 91507099.

Indian Female 25 MBA in HR looking for a suitable opening in Admin/ Hr. Contact 97013375

AUTO CAD/DRAUGHTS20 Years exp Auto Cad 3DS Max available for teaching part time.

Contact - 94412557 Electrical draftsman AutoCAD switch gear & MEP control panel 7 years experience Qatar. Contact: 92546203/96228100

DESIGNER Interior Designer: Indian male 31, 8 years exp. in GCC, NOC available.

95217586 Architect designer experience in Architecture design in 2D, 3D visiting to site : 2 years experience (in Oman), fluent Hindi & English. Email: zhussain9950@gmail.com Contact: 94253074

DRIVER Driver with15 years experience in Oman; speak Arabic & English & Hindi, visa available.

Contact: 99191270 Looking for driving job.

Contact: 98219182 Male driver is available 7 years in Oman 3 years experience as a driver 7 month is Muscat driving license holder. Contact: 92046159 Pakistani male light vehicle driver, looking for job. Contact - 94435912 Light driver looking for job.

Contact: 99704122/ 97762303 Light driver looking for job.

Contact: 96435795 Pakistani light duty driver 2 yrs experience seeks placement.

Contact: 96342684 Light driver looking for job.

Contact: 98219599 Light driver. Contact: 99035942 Light driver looking for job, 4 yrs exp in Oman. Contact: 94241385 Driver looking for job. Contact 94195818 Driver looking for job. Contact: 99507039 Paksitani Driver with 6 yrs experience looking for job. # 93985087 Driver with car 3 years experience looking for job. Contact: 92041902 Light driver. Contact: 96313100 Pakistani male light vehicle driver with 2 yrs exp looking for job.

Contact : 96342684

DRIVER Driver available with car and without car. Contact 96771598 Pakistani, male light vehicle driver looking for job. Contact 97943750 Driver with car. Contact: 97705694/98988208 Looking for job driving Bangladeshi. Contact: 97418036 Light driver for job.

Contact 95779594 Pakistani driving available.

Contact : 96913836

ENGG. / TECHNICAL Quantity Surveyor with 5 Years experience (one year in Oman) looking for job. Contact 91090036 Mechanical Engineer, Indian, 24 years with Piping Engineering, Autocad, Ansys NX- Cad, pro-e, Catia & PDMS now on visiting visa seek suitable placement. Contact: 99168054 / 96684345 Email: : mbkishore@hotmail.com BE ,Electrical Engineer with 5 Years Gulf Experience in Underground cable & Overhead line in HT and LT, Distribution Substation, MEP. Oman D/L available. NOC available.

Contact: 95054644, 00918807888109, speninsam@gmail.com Diploma in Electrical Engineer exp 5 years any type of industrial maintenance and installation, building wiring system. Contact: 94544663 Email: motiurrahaman1989@gmail. com B.Tech mechanical Engineer, Indian 1 years experience HVAC (MEP) available in Muscat on visit visa seeking suitable job.

Contact 93670280 Email: jinu.avm@gmail.com Indian male , diploma in electrical Engineering with 10 years of successful experience , presently available on visit visa seeking suitable positions in projects and maintenance electrical fields.

Contact: 91270686 Email: ajithgopa@rediffmail.com Iraqi male B.ch civil Engineering, 17 yrs experience in Oman experience in project management with valid Oman D/L NOC available and can join immediately looking suitable position in Muscat area.

Contact: 93809093 Email: mohanad_kuba@yahoo.com Controls & automation Engineer with 7 years experience in ( RO BOT /PLC/CNC programming , LV panel building , Installation & commissioning service & support of machines) mostly overseas experience for complete execution of Machine projects in China, USA, Thailand ETC. Contact : +97430847848, Email: bensonvar@gmail.com Indian male Mechanical Technician with 22 year experience (6.5 year in Oman)-as mill Wright fitter & maintenance fabrication work seeks suitable placement NOC available.

Contact: 95922696 Chemical Engineer with 04 years experience in petrochemical refinery sector seeking for & suitable position in petrochemical oil & gas, refinery EPC Companies.

Contact : 00968-91748400 A male Civil Engineer is available holding 10 years experience 2.5years in Oman in Building projects, quantity canton, project billing, extension of time, variation and in execution of project interested person can. Contact: 968 91320917 Indian male Electrical Engineer seeking for a job good core technical knowledge as well as fluent communication skill. Contact: 95980857 Electrical Engineer Indian male having valid driving license and NOC, BE 1 yrs experience sealing suitable placement. Contact: 96347995 Email: shyjalpk@gmail.com

Indian male present in Oman can join immediately. Diploma civil with CAD & 3d. Contact: 92875345 /92887561 Email: jubincivileng@gmail.com Civil Engineer B.E, 5 years experience with GCC D/L Consultancy job preference. Contact: 91693008 B.Tech mechanical Engineer 16 yrs experience 3 yrs exp in Oman now production manager in Galvanizing and steel fabrication area looking for suitable placement NOC available.

Contact: 93714500/91395765 Indian seeking oilfield HSE fire & safety rigs studied 10SH risk assessment fire safety on visit.

Contact: 98723292 Civil Engineer, Female, 3 years experience on visit visa seeking suitable openings. Contact: 99195433

MISCELLANEOUS

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 Indian female, B.Tech biotechnology with strong computer skills and 2 years experience as associate research analyst (Media Monitoring) in Nasdaq Oman seeking growth oriented jobs. Contact 92044603 /918056169148 or angeline.babithac@gmail.com.

EDUCATION MBA, B.Com Indian female having two yrs exp as lecturer seeks placement in teaching filed. Presently on family visit visa. Contact – 96259171/ Email: bhumipandya@gmail.com

Indian male 24 yrs B. Tech (Mech.

Eng) on visit 1 yr experience in production field looking for suitable placement. Contact: 98925685

Indian female MCA, Three years experience in teaching field, seeks placement currently on visit visa.

Contact: 93431567 Email: fivona.mel@gmail.com

BSc Civil Engineer, 6 months working experience in UAE as a Site Engineer currently in Oman on visit visa and looking for a job.

Contact : 98157833 Email: waqas.pasha22@gmail.com

English Teacher female (M. A. B. Ed) Having 14 years experience with 11 years experience in Oman with reputed institute and school.

Contact: 92289080 / 99318276 Email: babujosev@yahoo.com

Egyptian Civil Engineer, total experience 7 years - 2 years experience in Oman. I am looking for Project Engineer, I have good experience in site & office works.

Contact :91148708 Mech Eng 10 yrs Oman exp P&M / logistics in oil & gas industry.

Contact : 95774585 Project Coordinator (B.E Civil) 6.5 yrs in Oman having 9+ years relevant experience working in MOD & ROP project need suitable placement. Contact : +986 91129192 Email: azmot.uuet@gmail.com Indian male B.Tech (ECE), MBA (HR) 2 years of experience in CCNA, CCNP and hands on practice in Linux and MCSE, looking for suitable job.

Contact: 93487225 Quantity Surveyor or Site Engineer in civil, 5 years experience in Oman have valid Oman driving license looking for suitable posts, NOC available. Contact: 96394948/ 98294919.

Email: asvinsha@gmail.com Electrical Eng. Degree (MEP) need suitable job of construction 12 yrs exp.

Email: mohd.ateeq.khan@gmail.com

IT Indian male, B.E ( computer science engineer), MBA (finance), OCA certified, having 5 years of experience in oracle Dba/ oracle apps Dba, seeks a suitable position in the field of IT. Contact: 96212062 email: zubairkhan11@gmail.com B.E IT Eng, 6 yrs exp TCS with oil & Gas Industry (Java /Oracle).

Contact : 97835922 Omani Citizen searching a job in the field of computer especially in data base professional in operating Oracle SQL, PL/ SQL, form6i, Report 6i. Contact 96977368 Email: talaloml@yahoo.com Business development manager IT & Non – IT, 7 years experience Oman driving license seeks position good prospects. Contact: 99329216 Indian male 25 yrs exp in Administration, Telecom, Optical Fiber Communication, Networking, MS Office. Seeks any job. On visit visa.

Contact – 91385373 / sridharbsnlma1455@gmail.com

Civil Engineer, Expatriate Female, 3 yrs experience, on visit visa seeking suitable placement. #99195433

CERTIFIED (CCNA) NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR 4 years experienced looking for Suitable placement.

Contact: 99002390

Iraqi Engineer specialized in telecommunication net working & PC experience in nuking network and security systems. Contact: 92898329 / 99249124

Indian male 26 years B.Tech (IT) M.Tech CCNA certified MCSE certified 3 yrs experience currently a visit visa looking for suitable job.

Contact: 91006851

Electronics & communications Indian male, 2 years experience seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 99456725 / 94678625

B.E Computer Science, Indian lady, with 2 years experience in Oman looking for suitable job in Muscat having valid GCC driving license.

Contact: 97738624

Indian male, 28 yrs, Electronics & Instrumentation Engineer with 4 yrs experience in Industrial Automation (SCADA) seeking suitable job.

Contact 93154156 / 98416190

Computer Networking/Facility Mgmt 5 Yrs of Exp Holds B.E(ECE), CCNA Looking for Good Opportunity, Indian - Visit Visa. Contact 91911792/ arafakdnl@gmail.com

Electrical Engineer Pakistani male 4 years B. Tech & 3 years’ diploma seeking a suitable placement.

Contact: 96752080 Email: ilyasoader97@gmail.com

IT Desktop Support Engineer 2 years Oman 3 years in Indian Exp. Contact 91937060

Indian Male, IT Support Engineer, 2 yrs in Oman & 5 yrs Indian experience. Contact 97311847

Network system Engineer B.E / ECE + CCNA & Ms certified with 4+ yrs exp looking for a job. Currently in Oman on visit visa. Contact: 92589502 Email: careersjegan@gmail.com

Indian male, B.Tech Mechanical having 4 years experience with QA/ QC / CSWIP looking for a suitable position. Contact: 99447106 Email: dhanubhasi87@gmail.com Btech computer science graduate 2015 passout.. Android application marketing.. Having good communication skills and mindset to work in a team. Contact 91024385 D.A.E Civil 4 years exp in land surveyor and building work worked on AutoCAD, T.S and G.P.S 1 year exp in Oman looking for placement.

Contact: 92140890 / 98780156 Email: engrsafiullah91@gmail.com

Indian male, completed diploma in Computer technology fresher, seeking suitable position, currently on visit visa. Contact : 93596096

MISCELLANEOUS MCA, BCA with 2 yrs relevant experience seeking suitable opportunity.

Contact: 96377039 13 Years UAE experienced in MNC & reputed firms logistics distribution looking for a suitable placement, on visit visa contact 99838743, gani.dawood@gmail.com

Warehouse in charge with 14 years gulf experience 1.5 years in Oman NOC available looking for suitable placement contact 97440902 MCA Indian male 6 month experience India seeking suitable placement. Contact 00918547068891 Email: koneeradh@gmail.com Filipino Male looking for a job & have experience in sales, waiter, barista, technical support / customer service with good communication skills. # 91789465

SALES / MARKETING Indian male. 27, Post Graduate, 5+ yrs exp in Oman in Sales & Credit Control, with valid Oman driving License, NOC available, looking for suitable placements. Ph: 9199 3376 Indian Female having more than 8 years of experience in oil and gas industry in sales and marketing & as commercial manager, now in family visa looking for a suitable placement No. 94187012, Email mvrajagd_d@yahoo.com

Indian material controller/ store keeper seeking job in Oman NOC / Release available. Contact: 91946174

Indian Lady 24 yrs with five years experience as cabin crew in National & International airlines seeking suitable job vacancy in good position.

Contact: 97623267

Indian Female with over 9 yrs experience with good communication skills seeks jobs in customer service or sales field. Contact : 96108289, shijipaul84@gmail.com

A Graduate degree holder 4 years experience in Marketing (mobiles) in Oman & U.A.E and as well has driving license with car. Interested person can. Contact: +968 94164657

Part- Time Accountant, well experience senior accountant ,doing all type of accounting works, Finalization, Budgeting available.

Contact :98803439

MBA graduate having 6 years exp in sales & marketing, presently working in PepsiCo India seeks suitable placement in Oman.

Contact: + 91 9895388937 Email: samir.pag@gmail.com

MEDICAL Well experienced MOH Licensed Indian GP Doctor looking for locum / permanent position in the Capital area. Contact 98140024 email:drgpoman@yahoo.com Indian female Dentist MOH Oman passed seeking a suitable placement in capital region. Contact– 91377681 hashimsarawat@gmail.com Male BSC Nurse parametric passed ACLS BLS holder now in visit visa seeking for suitable post.

Contact: 96516406 Indian male Nurse, 31 years Oman prometric passed 6 yrs ICU experience. Contact : 94195150 / 92758895 Lab Technician, Civil (8yrs Gulf experience) looking for a suitable job (NOC available) Contact-93344378 Indian female looking for suitable position 2nd rank in MSC microbiology, fresher now on visiting visa.

Contact : 91633089 Email: mansytk4@gmail.com

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR B.com, diploma in material management having 12 years experience in overseas / local puritans, logistics ware house seeks suitable placement NOC available.

Contact: 96477638 Indian male, with 8 yrs exp. in Oman (BA- Graduate) working as a project Sales Coordinator, with Oman D/L, looking for suitable job, ready to join immediately with NOC. Contact 95245057

SALES / MARKETING Indian female (MTECH) having Gulf experience in family visa seeking suitable placement in Oman.

Contact : 94306164 / 91001194 Indian male MBA 7 years experience in Hospitality industry, operation, sales & marketing looking for suitable vacancy. Contact 92115860 Email vibin.py@gmail.com

Procurement Manager with 17 years experience looking suitable position. (Electrical Diploma Holder with Oman D/L) Contact: 95979029. pavithranmv@gmail.com Indian worked MNC 15 years Oman experience as Marketing FMCG / TRAD Purchasing with visa license.

Contact: 98796982 MBA Graduate with D/L looking for sales or marketing jobs.

Contact 94143154 Email: rinojnathen008@gmail.com Male BA with D/L having 6 years exp Oman wanted suitable job in sales, inventory, procure.

Contact : 92191026 Indian female MSc, MPHIL (Chemistry) 3 years Teaching experience currently on visit visa seeking suitable position. Contact : 96916534 / 91969756 Sales /marketing experience 24 years old Indian male having valid Omani license seeking suitable position in FMCG company, presently working as a Supervisor of the leading hypermarket in Oman.

NOC available. Contact: 91993785 / 93089757 Looking for good job 2 years experience Oman sales marketing valid driving license Indian Kerala.

Contact : 98626682 Omani female exp in PRO with Oman D/L. Contact: 91161736 Outdoor salesman with car looking for job. Contact 91615715 Indian male, 39 yrs having 15 yrs Gulf experience (UAE, Qatar, Oman) in sales & marketing looking for a suitable position with NOC. Contact 94054730 8 years store experience Indian male looking for placement. N.O.C available. Contact: 98456535 8 years purchase experienced Indian male looking for job. N.O.C. available. Contact: 98161323

Indian MBA 18 yr exp in sales / Markt, looking for manager position.

Contact Oman / UAE 93893878

Indian male, B.Sc (Mathematics) PGDBM (Marketing). 9 yrs of Oman experience in sales in midlevel management, NOC available.

Valid Oman D/L. Contact: 95278838 Email: anup2p4p@yahoo.com

Indian male Science Graduate 11 yrs of sales exp in India & Oman, having valid D/L seeking job in sales with family benefits. Contact – 94255249

Indian Male, B.Com Graduate, 23, with experience in Sales looking for suitable placements. .

Contact 98371144

Indian female B.com Graduate having 8 years experience in Indian & 2 years experience in Oman as sales coordinator, secretary, customer service seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 95433987

Pakistani Female Bachelor of Information Technology with 8 years’ experience in Banking, Sales, business development, retail & customer service seeking for a suitable placement. Having valid D/L& NOC available. Contact 94699970 shehla.chohan@gmail.com

Pakistani male 34 yrs Intermediate 2 yrs exp in sales & marketing in Oman. Looking for suitable job.

Contact - 92146864 Indian male with 5 years experience in building material sales and marketing education qualification BA electronics. Contact: 92228538

Indian male 45+ yrs , 20 yrs exp as sales supervisor in India looking for indoor sales /stores /cashier or any suitable placement can speak Hindi , English, Malayalam, Tamil, kannada can join immediately on visit visa.

Contact 93086105/33016546

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S U N DAY, J U N E 2 8 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED SKILLED/UNSKILLED Experience skilled candidate with driver license seeks position in sales in Salalah. Contact: 98579382

TOURS & TRAVELS 25 Indian female B.S.C. Fashion Technology. 5 years experience in textile industry as a merchandiser and good in fashion marketing.

Currently available on visit visa, seeking for a suitable job.

Contact 96990368.

Email: simmy.missy@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Content Executive, freshers with good communication skills and willingness to learn may apply on job@socioholics.com Innovative Indian Male 29, B.E & M.Tech Web designer / developer with over 5.5 years of work experience in HTML 5, CSS 3, SEO, Digital marketing (DFP & DCM), Magento, CMS, Photoshop and Dreamweaver.

Can join ASAP. Mobile: 00968 9630 3055 / email: aditya.khandkar@gmail.com 10 YEAR Experienced PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER. Currently working at Kerala, India.

Seeks placement.

Contact: - +968 95872030 , email: - sajith3969@gmail.com Indian male 48yrs with driving license looking for a job to work as driver / salesman. Residing at Al Khoudh. Contact: 99551310 Tunisian women looking for a job, khnows english,frensh, italian and arabic. Contact: 91171838 Young Indian Chartered Accountant, female, Having 6 years experience in Oman and India. Accounts and Finance Manager, Auditor. Urgently seeking suitable positions.

Contact-92530131, jobcareer44@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Business development Manager/ Executive. Preferably minimum of 2 years experience. Valid driving licence can apply on job@socioholics.com

PRODUCTION OPERATOR – Indian male seeking production operator or related jobs with 4 years of experience in oil & gas field. #94263445.

Email: tonyxavier4u@gmail.com

Omani Mechanical Engineer, has 3 years experience ,has HSE, H2S, Riggers/Banks men Permit, Drawing / cad, SCBA, Safety Leadership and Initial Fire Response Courses. good with computer and English language looking for suitable job.

Contact 99224319-98454500

Indian Keralite Male 35 looking for Scaffolding supervisor post having 5 years of Supervisor and HSE experience in GCC Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Fluent in English Arabic and Hindi .

Contact 96155921, or mail fysal.nellaya@gmail.com

Indian male 22 Mechanical Diploma holder Engg with HVAC certified, having 1 year exp. seeking suitable position. Currently available on visit visa. Contact - 92835952 Tanzanian male, 25 yrs Accountant successful experience in Tanzania looking for suitable placement in any field. Contact : 96710154 Tunisian lady has Professorship in social and economical sciences and accounting, diploma in Experimental Sciences degree in English for media. Contact 95391050, aysser2013@gmail.com Indian male Diploma, Civil engineer 4.3 year experience at building construction and consulting company with Oman driving licence and N.O.C available seeking suitable placement Contact 95989500 email cv.shihabedappal@gmail.com Filipino Male looking for a job & have experience in sales, waiter, barista, technical support / customer service with good communication skills. # 91789465 PART TIME ACCOUNTANT, Indian male, M. Com, 35 years, 12 Years exp. in Accounts, 8 years in Oman. Knowledge upto finalization. Having valid D/L, seeks suitable Placement.GSM: 96249124

Indian Male 28 yrs, having 7 years Gulf + Indian experience in HR and Admin field, looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 97914340, Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com Indian Male 28 years MSM, B. Com having 6years experience in Gulf and India as a HR and Admin looking for suitable placement.# :97914340.

Email: rajkv30@gmail.com B.Sc. Mechanical Engineer Sudanese 3 yrs of exp. In industrial field available in muscat on vist visa seeking suitable job .

Contact: 95868922, Email: almouthanaosman@yahoo.com IT system and Printer engineer ME, 5Years bank IT Management exp in India looking for full time job visit visa contact 94462150 24 year Indian Chartered Accountant male with 3yrs of experience is seeking suitable placement in Muscat, currently on visit visa & ready to join immediately. Contact him on 98201476 or email at lokeshkaluri@gmail.com MCA IT Professional Indian Female seek placement in Teaching/ Non Teaching field. Presently on visit visa. 9588 7051, ashwininakod@gmail.com

Egyptian Civil Engineer, total experience 7 years - 2 years experience in Oman. I am looking for Project Engineer, I have good experience in site & office works.

Contact number:91148708

ACCA Affiliate, Indian, 2.5Years experience in Audit/ Finance in Big 6 Audit Firm and Oil Accounting in PDO, For Permanent Placement for Finance or Accounts or Audit. Release NOC Available on hand.

Contact #95140445, a.saran891@gmail.com

Looking for part time jobs in Muscat, Auto cad Draughtsman (Civil). contact:-+968-99070584 email: remluvp@gmail.com

Indian Male 24 years, Looking for a Suitable Job in Telecom / Networking. 1 year sales experience. MSc. Communications Engineering & Valid Driving license.

Ph: 91280121.

Email: jackrprasad@yahoo.com.

Finance ACCA Affiliate, Worked as an Auditor with 2.5 Years Experience in reputed firm, Handled independent audit/finance assignments, Looking for permanent placement, NOC available. #95140445. a.saran891@gmail.com

Indian female MA. B.Ed. with one year three months teaching experience. Subject: English Seeking for a Better placement. Now working in Oman # 93961142, 92184408 Email:anoopkesavan78@gmail.com

ACCOUNTING – Indian male seeking accounting job with 2 years experience in accounting.

Contact: 94263445, E mail – contactantonyxavieranand@gmail. com

B.Sc. Mechanical Engineer Sudanese 3 yrs of exp. In industrial field available in Muscat on visit visa seeking suitable job .

Contact: 95868922, Email: almouthanaosman@yahoo.com

Sudanese male: 27 yrs, 2 years experience in accounting, other experience (purchasing – HR - Coordinating and Office Management), looking for a job Omani Driving License, NOC. Contact: 94174403

Piping Design Engineer, Indian male 27, looking for suitable placement in Piping Design & Engineering. Having 7 years of experience in AutoCAD. Also familiar with PDMS (11.6 Version),CAESAR ll. Contact : 97351786 / 96143708, E-mail : mohammednazeer07@gmail.com

Indian Male MBA with two year experience in H.R as a H.R Assistant, Now in India, Seeking for an urgent suitable position.

Contact:-98620260 / 93895992 , Email:-deepakmb4@gmail.com

24 year Indian Chartered Accountant male with 3yrs of experience is seeking suitable placement in Muscat, currently on visit visa & ready to join immediately. Contact him on 98201476 or email at lokeshkaluri@gmail.com

Indian female Nurse with 5 yrs of experience, presently working in Oman, seeking for suitable placement. NOC available can join immediately. Contact: 98329941 Email: ancyanish2011@gmail.com

Indian male auto cad draughtsman (civil) 8 years experience, seeking for part time job mobile no: 0096899070584 email: remluvp@gmail.com 8 years successful experience.

Senior Accountant, Indian male, 29 years, presently working in oman as a senior accountant with oman driving license. NOC available. seek suitable opportunity. gsm: 97705854

Sudanese male (B.Sc, computer science) (diploma computer engineering), 6 yrs. experience DBA oracle PL-SQL, MS SQL - Server, MS visual studio vba, network.

Contact 91415886 Syrian male 3yrs. exp in IT support, Networking, Security systems, Server support, IT sales and marketing.

Valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement. Contact 91055584

Sudanese male (B.Sc Computer science) (diploma computer engineering) 6 yrs. experience DBA Oracle plsql, MS sql-server ,ms visual studio vba, network. Contact :91415886 Indian male with 8 yrs experience in FMCG in Oman as Sales Supervisor looking for suitable placement.

NOC available. Gsm: 96495206 Indian Male, Graduate, 11 years Sales experience in Lighting / Industrial products, ready to join immediately. GSM: 9710 5356 Indian heavy duty driver with 8 years experience in oman available with NOC. GSM : 93601943 GSM : 94496457 Over 15 years experience in Gulf.

Interior Architect, Lebanese Nationality, on visit visa seeking a suitable Placement. 96268005.

SITUATION WANTED Indian male, 28 yrs MBA (HR/M) 2 years experience in Indian Oman in HR & admin seeks suitable placements. NOC available. # 97484159 Email: rameshkapa86@gmail.com M.Sc 3+ years exp from France & India in IT Support Engineer / Hardware & Networking / Server support / scientific system support looking for suitable positions. Indian, male on visit visa, contact 98898781/ anoopys@gmail.com Looking for managerial post (full time ), More than Ten years of experience in Team Development ,Training, planning, Administration, Sales & Marketing, Advertisement and Credit Control and Logistics. #91076608 / 99322748. Release & noc available Indian male, 34years having 10 years of experience in Sales, Sales Coordination and Administration.

Experienced in SAP and MS Office. NOC available.

Contact # 94686594 Indian Male MBA Marketing/HRM 3 year experience with Omani D/L, seeking suitable jobs.

Contact: 97424188 email: dharwesh@gmail.com Indian, Male, 23 years, BE Electrical, having 2 years experience in Electrical Works-H.T. cabling etc, & Construction, looking for a suitable placement. # +968 96927880 (Oman), +91 9765376109 (India), Email: rahulrevi6@gmail.com Indian Female M.Com with Computer Skills and Four Month Experience as Accountant ,Currently On Family Visa Looking for a Suitable Placement, Available Immediately.

Contact : 95846642, Email : dhanyashree91@yahoo.com ACCA Affiliate, Experience in audit/ finance of 2.5 years in Big 6 Firm and Oil industry, looking for suitable permanent placement, Release NOC available. Contact: #95140445 a.saran891@gmail.com B.Tech Computer Engineer Wanted job to work on(IT/Banking/Administrator/Technical/Office works) having NOC with the limited time from (04/06/2015 to 13/06/2015).

Mobile:98402389 email:naresh6672@gmail.com

British Beauty Therapist looking for suitable position. please contact :97175240 Highly Qualified & Experienced Finance Manager Pakistani with USA , UK & Canadian Degrees , CPA ,ACCA-UK . MBA-USA ,IFA- Financial Consultants Canada , Corporate Analyst USA Professional of Banking , Audits ,ERPs & Profit Maximizations ( NOC available ) call 94 504505 – 94403270 27 year Indian female who has 4 years of experience with logistics function in distribution of spares for both heavy machinery & wind turbine parts. Kindly contact me on +91 9790769104 E-mail: joemohana@yahoo.co.in Indian male Executive Secretary having vast experience in admin, logistics & procurement well versed with computer .seek suitable placement. Contact : 99514286 Indian male MBA (U.K), 10 Years of experience in Admin, Sales, HR, stores and logistics seeks suitable placement. Contact 99271903.

Indian Female MCA, 4 plus Years of experience in Web designing, Admin, P.A, seeks suitable placement.

Contact 99486374 8 Years successful experience, SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, Indian male,29 years. Presently working in Oman as a Senior Accountant with oman Driving license seeks suitable opportunity. GSM: 97705854 7 and half years experience working accounts / inventory manager looking suitable job. Contact: 96991782 Email: srinivasu.sp@gmail.com

Indian male, looking for a part time accounting job. Having additional knowledge & experience in HR admin & purchase.

Contact 99196621 HSE Advisor, NEBOSH IGC, Indian male, 4 years experience in construction and oil fields, seeking suitable jobs. Gsm: 97458900, Mail: miroshbabu@gmail.com Highly Experienced Finance Manager, CPA ,ACCA-UK . MBA-USA , Professional of Banking, Audits , ERPs Sap , Management as Team Leader and Problem Solver call 94 504505 / 94403270 Indian male MBA Finance presently OMAN IN visit visa, 26 years, looking for an accountant job.

Contact 95240641, email Id mohammadabdulazharuddin@ gmail.com Admin Executive, 31, Indian Male, having 9+ years exp. in reputed companies. Seeking suitable placement in any gulf region. Contact +968 99276601 & 97693456. email : muralimahdav77@gmail.com Indian Female, 24yrs, M.COM (Accounts) having 3yrs experience in Accounts, HR, Administration, Customer Service. Good Computer Proficiency. Seeking Suitable Position. Visa Transfer/NOC Available.

Contact: 99654913 MEP Quantity Surveyor-Estimation-Project, 10 Years Experience (3 years in Oman). Having NOC & Oman D/L, looking for suitable job, Contact - 98291626 Indian house maid looking full time job. Contact : 98254909

Indian female , MCA BCA, certification PL SQL , 6months training PHP, date warehouse looking for suitable placement. #95694330 Email: mondkashyapodl@gmail.com

B.E. Civil Engineer age 27, total 3 years of experience in Mumbai looking for placement asap in oman now on visit visa of 1 month ph 9571 3441 Email. Khatrialeem@gmail.com

B.Com with more than 5 yrs exp. looking for an accounts part tome job work. know with tally.

Email-shilpa_62@yahoo.com

Indian Male, 29 years, CCNP, MCITP having Bachelor degree and 6 years of experience in Networking looking for job. 96760618 / varghese.manthara@gmail.com

Part- time accountant, well experience senior accountant , doing all type of accounting works, finalization, budgeting available.

Contact : 98803439

Sudanese male, 31 year old, have 3 year Diploma in electrical engineer, 5 years experience in different activities . Mobile No ; +96894549609

S U N DAY, J U N E 2 8 , 2 0 1 5

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DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours Contact- 98029602, 92808636

TOURS

RENT A CAR

RENT A CAR

Butter cup rent a car presents fantastic offers all vehicles are model 2016.

Contact : 97249449

GOOD NEWS Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis massage, steam bath, obesity, spondylitis IDEAL , CARE Ayurvedic Clinic 18 November street, Azaiba. Contact 99639695 / 99117987

Available car with driver daily, weekly and monthly basis.

Contact : 95518612

GOOD NEWS Genuine Ayurvedic treatments & massage, Ayurvedic clinic at Al Khuwair. Contact 24478618 / 97263637 /93309131

Ayurvedic massage backache, joint pain & neck pain etc.

Contact: 98254909

DRIVING

FREE INFORMATION ABOUT ISLAM. If you would like to know more about Islam, please call: 99425598, 96050000, 99353988, 99253818, 99341395, and 99379133.

For ladies: 99415818, 99321360, 99730723 Orvisit: www.islamfact.com Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam).

Contact 24475280 / 95371554 / 92504980 www.siddhayur.com

Learn driving with professional only automatic. Contact 94022250

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S U N DAY, J U N E 2 8 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

CLASSES

COMPUTER

SITUATION WANTSERVICES

ACCOUNTANTS AND CONSULTANTS

WE ARE PROVIDING ACCOUNTING/ AUDITING TAX/ CONSULTING CONTACT: 24 567 251 / 95 498 033

Admission Open: CAMBRIDGE / BILINGUAL CURRICULUM admission started in Al Burj Private School, Azaiba for KG and Grade I to IV. Please register soonest.

Contact: 93211417 / 92887809.

Learn Cup cakes, exotic cakes, Icing decorations, handicrafts.

Contact 95941515

SITUATION WANTMANPOWER

WEBSITE

CHANGE OF NAME We, Kerala Ramakrishna Iyer Duraisamy Sankarasubramanian (name of father as per the passport holder of Indian passport No. F 8007576 and Neela Sankarasubramanian (name of the mother, holder of Indian passport No. G 8659528) having permanent address in 1/184 –A, Krishna Kumar Apartments, Flat F2, Vembuli Amman Koil St., Madipakkam, Chennai 600091, Tamil Nadu presently residing at the following address in Muscat , P.B No. 3168, P.C No. 112, Sultanate of Oman, hereby solemnly affirm and declare to change the name of our child Master Mohit Shankar (name as per present passport), holder of Indian passport No. J 3401979 date of issue 07.12.2010 issued at Pune. The name of our child will be henceforth known as Sai Charan (given name) Sankarasubramanian (Sur Name) (new name for all purposes). Any objection towards change of name of our minor child may please be communicated to Embassy of India, Muscat, Diplomatic Quarters, Al Khuwair, PB No. 1727, PC 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman.

Split & window A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact 93769089/95323517 Air condition maintenance split and window services AC specialist ducted and package type unites.

Contact: 98667326

House shifting & transporting.

Contact 92490422

WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

Contact: http//webviewoman

GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998

Carpet, curtain, sofa, floor, cleaning, shampooing, marble & mosaic tiles grinding, polishing and painting. Contact : 93630133 / 95821193

MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. Contact 24793614/ 99314807

House shifting packing.

99657644 / 98518013

House shifting.

Contact 99708138

Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting, Plumbing, Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. # 24810137, 99450130

Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance.Contact ABU QABAS99320217 /24788722

Pest control Treatments, termites, cockroaches, bedbugs Ocean Center LLC. Contact: 99344723 Carpet, Sofa Shampooing. Ocean Center LLC. Contact: 99884591 AC servicing maintenance fixing.

Contact: 99540621

MATRIMONIAL Hindu Ezhava family, settled in Muscat looking for suitable groom working within Oman for their daughter 25 yrs (MBA) working with a reputed company in Muscat. Contact 98689663

MATRIMONIAL Alliance invited for a Nair girl 24 yrs, 5ft, 1”, fair, slim, B.Tech graduate reputed family of Ernakulam dist. (Star Thiruvonam Sudhajathakam) financially sound, from parents of B.Tech nair boys from Trissur, Palakkad and Eranakulam dist. . Contact 00919495924302 email: raveendrandr@yahoo.com Kerala Nair girl, B.Com, 22 yrs, 5.2” very fair, slim, (Star Uthrattathi) Presently working in infosis, Chennai. Financially sound, from parents of nair boys from Trissur, Palakkad and Eranakulam & Calicut dist. . Contact : 0091 8301865688 email: raveendrandr@yahoo.com *Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability