Times Of Oman - March 29, 2015

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SUNDAY, March 29, 2015 /8 Jumada Al Thani 1436 AH

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GOING DARK FOR PLANET EARTH

Pictures of Grand Mosque taken yesterday show how Oman joined the global Earth Hour by switching off the lights from 8pm to 9pm. In Oman, The Environment Society of Oman (ESO) joined the Earth Hour by organising games and activities for children to learn about their environment and energy saving. Several other buildings, firms and hotels in Oman joined the global cause to conserve energy by switching off lights.

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Yemenis look for safe haven

— Picture by Jun Estrada/Times of Oman

As Sanaa turns into a ghost town, both Yemenis and foreigners are keen to flee the war zone at the earliest

WAR-TORN NATION: Houthi fighters ride a patrol truck outside

Sanaa Airport on Saturday. — Reuters

REJIMON K

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: As Saudi Arabia-led warplanes continue pounding Houthi rebels in Yemen for the third night turning Sanaa, the capital city, into a ghost town, both Yemenis and foreigners told the Times of Oman that they are looking for an option to flee to a safe haven.

“We were working in a hospital in Sanaa near the airport. For the last two days, we have been hearing only bomb blasts and gunshots.

Our hospital has been damaged and we have now fled to a place quite far from there. I am now staying with a friend,” Shibin Daniel

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Mony, an Indian male nurse who joined the hospital three months ago, told the Times of Oman over phone from Yemen.

Ground forces likely Meanwhile, Yemeni Foreign Minister Riyadh Yaseen said on Saturday that Arab ground forces may be needed in the next phase of a Saudi-led operation against Houthi fighters in Yemen.

Asked at an Arab League summit in Egypt whether ground

troops would be required, he told reporters: “This is possible.

Very possible.”

War-torn country “We have sent our papers, which are required by the Indian mission, to leave the war-torn country. Maybe in the next two days, we will be able to leave, but we do not know whether it will be by air, sea or road,” said Shibin.

He added that thousands have fled Sanaa, but those who have remained are stocking up food, goods and water, fearing that the Saudi-led operation to stop the rebels will take longer than expected. >A4

A L S AWA D I B E A C H R E S O R T

Biggest theme park to be ready in 2017 A E JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com

New Zealand, Australia eye World Cup glory today

C6

MUSCAT: Majarat Oman, the Sultanate’s biggest indoor theme park being built in the premises of the Al Sawadi Beach Resort, plans to have a soft opening in 2017.

The promoters of the theme park organised a major event to unveil the project in front of a high-profile audience and media.

Majarat Oman, which is just

45 minutes by road from Muscat, will be able to accommodate 2,500 to 3,000 visitors a day, Syed Asad Ali of Arab Malaysia Development Company, told the Times of Oman, on the sidelines of the event.

The tourism landscape “This project is going to change the landscape of domestic tourism in Oman,” Asad Ali further said during the event. >A2

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WORLD LEADERS

His Majesty’s contributions to peace hailed MUSCAT: With the return of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said after successfully completing the treatment programme in Germany, there are hopes that moves for peace and stability will be initiated in the region, as well as containing the challenges and risks facing the region.

While extending their congratulations for His Majesty’s safe return, the Arab and world leaders pointed out that the Arab and Gulf region is in desperate need of the wisdom of His Majesty to help diffuse the many conflicts facing the region. >A4 HM receives greetings >A6 TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

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Employment database needed for the future

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Oman is yet to come up with a formula to determine how many vacancies the private sector would be generating in the next five years. >A2

OMAN

Oman Air achieves 4% growth in revenue

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National carrier Oman Air has achieved a four per cent growth in revenue at OMR398.389 million in 2014. >A6

MARKET

Oman posts OMR361m budget deficit in 2014

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Oman posted a budget deficit of OMR360.8m in 2014, against a surplus of OMR267.4m in previous year. >B1

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SU N DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

OMAN C O M M E N TA RY

T H E M E PA R K

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Futuristic plan

The theme park is a futuristic, alien themed, indoor park, which offers a classic mix of all entertainment elements that a family is looking for, making Majarat Oman a complete family destination from the age group of three to 93.

Majarat Oman offers the visitors the excitement of an unforgettable journey full of thrills, speed and adventure, many of which are going to be in Oman for the first time.

Asad Ali said the project would create 300 job opportunities for Omanis as well as generate huge business opportunities.

With an envisaged built-up area of 25,000 square metres, the theme park will have a capital expenditure of $120 million.

Referring to the progress of the

A jobseeker waits endlessly when, in fact, the job is very much there but only has to be pulled out from the mass of information which desperately needs to be streamlined.

Sunday Beat

project implementation, Asad Ali said that the design is ready and is awaiting approval. Construction will start by the third quarter of this year.

Sanderson group, the world renowned Australian theme park consultant, will pick up 51 per cent equity stake in Majarat Oman. The Sanderson group is already setting up an office in Oman with the name Sanderson Projects LLC. Fatik bin Fahar (FBF) Group of companies and Amusement Cities (promoted by Arab Malaysia Development Company) have signed an agreement on October 2013 for the development of Majarat Oman.

Project finance will be arranged through a consortium of Malaysian and Omani banks.

Employment database needed for future SUNDAY BEAT

SALEH AL SHAIBANY

O

man is yet to come up with a formula to determine how many vacancies the private sector would be generating in the next five years. Nor does the country have a proper record of the number of job-seekers.

Matching the current demand of jobs with the generation of employment in the future is essential for any country. Accurate employment statistics are an important prerequisite for any modern nation. They are an indicator of the state of an economy and where it is heading towards. Oman can never be complacent about these figures and cannot act in isolation when every other nation in the world uses computer networks to maintain reliable records.

In an age of data accuracy and information technology intertwined in a vast array of technologies, crucial metrics can be easily employed to determine who is looking for a job, and which company is in need of talents and of what types.

It is surprising to see that Oman is still lagging behind many countries on this count when the right technology exists to create both the history and the forecast of employment.

The present system of asking job-seekers to register with the Ministry of Manpower is not working. Not all job-seekers have done so, which means this method is inaccurate. Secondly, the records of those who register are not connected to employers. The ministry sends the

JOB MARKET: The system of asking job-seekers to register with the Ministry of Manpower is not working. Not all of them have done so, which means this method is inaccurate. – ONA file photo

names manually to companies, and often the graduates end up being interviewed by companies that do not employ people of their specialisation.

A unified system is required to forward the names of job seekers to the right employers from multiple sources. Each university, college, vocational training institution and school must have a separate portal that allows students to register for jobs immediately after graduation. Separate educational portals could link up to a common national database that will give an accurate number of the unemployed to anyone who needs it, including the Ministry of Manpower and the Ministry of Civil Service. The database will also give private companies easy access so they pull out the right candidate they wish to interview, according to the available data.

On the other hand, the private sector can maintain individual records of their employment needs and the forecast of jobs that can be combined into a single pool of information. This way, both the current and future demands can be made available to cater to both employers and

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job-seekers. It will also serve as a tool of economical planning based on accurate statistics. No one knows exactly how many people are looking for jobs in Oman. Depending on which government official or employment expert you talk to, the figures vary between 20 and 30 per cent. This is one reason why a unified gathering system is important. Not only does it establish the exact number of jobless people, it also helps fills in a greater number of vacancies.

But having an exact number of job-seekers and vacancies is not all there is to it. These figures must be published every quarter for greater transparency.

When the system is in the open and regularised, there can be no blame game either from the government or the private sector.

There should be two ways to benchmark this — one, for the job-seekers where educational

institutions can play an important role, and the second for available vacancies. In the case of the latter, the private sector needs to play a leading role.

At the moment, a job-seeker waits endlessly when, in fact, the job is very much there but only has to be pulled out from the mass of information which desperately needs to be streamlined. If it is co-ordinated with people who are retiring, economic planners would have better leverage.

However, the overall employment statistics are not just useful to predict future job generation alone. They will also be useful to monitor inflation, interest rates and the financial market. It is important also for the projects at a time when Oman is embarking on developing infrastructure. Contractors would want to know what is available in the local job market to help them prepare their bids.

Foreign investors also go for job statistics before they decide whether to invest their money.

Overall, Oman badly needs a database of the unemployed if it has to keep the ball of progress rolling.

S U N DAY, MAR C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

ARAB SUMMIT

Sayyid Asa’ad meets Kuwait, Qatar Emirs SHARM EL SHEIKH: On the sidelines of the 26th Arab Summit, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jabir Al Sabah, Emir of Kuwait and Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, separately received His Highness Sayyid Asaad bin Tareq Al Said, Representative of His Majesty the Sultan.

Sayyid Asa’ad conveyed to the two leaders His Majesty the Sultan’s wishes of health, happiness and progress for their people. The Emir of Kuwait and the Emir of Qatar asked Sayyid Asaad to convey their greetings and wishes of good health, happiness and a long life to His Majesty the Sultan and the Omani people further progress. The two meetings were attended by a number of ministers.–ONA IBRI COLLISION

Three killed in accident STAFF REPORTER MUSCAT: Three nationals were killed in a collision of vehicles in Wadi Al Ain area of the wilayat of Ibri on Thursday evening.

All the victims died on the spot due to the intensity of the collision, said an official of the Royal Oman Police (ROP).

One of the victims was a student of second year at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU). His relatives said he was on the way from Muscat to enjoy the weekend with his family in Rikzah area when he met with the accident.

The whole village was shrouded in mourning following the tragedy in which three young lives were lost, said Ahmed Al Hinai, a relative of the victims. “We will always remember these beloved ones,” said a sobbing relative.

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ENVIRONMENT

ISM stops distributing books in plastic bags STAFF REPORTER MUSCAT: In a bid to make the school environment plasticfree, the Indian School Muscat (ISM) has stopped distributing books in plastic bags from this academic year, according to a school official.

“Parents have to bring their own

bags to keep the books or carry them any other way they find convenient,” added the official.

Some 9,000 students are enrolled in the ISM. “With this move we can at least save the environment from being polluted by 9,000 plastic bags,” explained the official.

Some other Indian schools had

also stopped distribution of books in plastic bags some years earlier.

“It is difficult to carry a bundle of books, but when we realise that we are joining hands with the school to create a plastic-free environment, it feels and sounds good,” said a parent, who was carrying the books purchased from the school.

According to global environmen-

talists, the waste footprint is a bigger concern than climate change.

“Some 8 million tonnes of plastic waste makes its way into our oceans every year, which is the same as placing five garbage bags of trash at every foot of the coastline of our planet,” say environmentalists.

A recent report stated that some

5.25 trillion plastic particles weighing about 269,000 tonnes are floating in the world’s oceans.

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SU N DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

OMAN

Discoveries from plants, animals, marine life and microbes can feed and clothe us, as well as generate significant economic benefits for Oman.

Dr Nadiya Al Saady Executive director of the Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources

ROHM PERFORMANCE

Polish tenor Piotr Beczala impresses with superhuman voice SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY VISIT

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SARAH MACDONALD sarah@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: From the moment he sang the first notes of Verdi’s aria “Di’ tu se fedele,” Polish tenor Piotr Beczala enchanted the audience at the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) with his powerful voice.

The opera superstar made his debut in Oman accompanied by the Czech National Symphony Orchestra and Russian maestro Guerassim Voronkov. The programme featured romantic 19th century opera and operetta arias and overtures which showcased Beczala’s immense talents.

Beczala’s is a voice that immediately captivates one’s attention, rich, warm and strong. Singing from the depth of his belly, he let it soar throughout the theatre, creating a sound so big that it seemed almost superhuman.

With each aria the excitement seemed to grow and there was an eagerness and anticipation to hear him hit those huge, high

MUSICAL BONANZA: Beczala’s charm wasn’t just in his stunning voice, but his stage presence, too. Conductor Guerassim Voronkov was also a treat. His frizzy white Einstein-like hair bounced in tune with the music. –Photos by Khalid Al Busaidi, ROHM

notes which he approaches with a bold fearlessness. It’s a voice that so impressed the audience they cheered him after the first song, and continued to cheer after each aria he sang, which included a mix of Giuseppe Verdi, Antonin Dvorak, Charles Gounod, Franz Lehar, Emmerich Kalman and Richard Tauber.

Beczala’s charm wasn’t just in

his stunning voice, but his stage presence, too. Though he was dressed in a classic tailed tuxedo, he was able to transform himself into the different characters, such as the lovestruck Romeo, or Prince from Rusalka searching for a mysterious water nymph. Beczala has the ability to make one forget about the darker realities of life, especially at a time when the news

POLITICAL TURMOIL

A1 Expats being evacuated as Yemen strikes continue < FROM

The Indian government is planning to evacuate 3,700-odd Indians in Yemen via Djibouti due to the absence of airstrips in the war-torn country.

The Indian media has reported that two ships will be sent to rescue the stranded Indians in Yemen.

“We are doing everything to evacuate Indian citizens in Yemen, and we are exploring the land route,” tweeted Sushma Swaraj, India’s minister for external affairs.

Meanwhile, Shibin’s relatives in Muscat said that they were worried about him and others being caught up in the crisis.

“We talked to him on Friday evening, but what we heard from him is not very encouraging. We hope that he and those who are stuck there make a safe exit,” said Vijaykumar, brother of Shibin.

“Shibin’s father, who is also working in Oman, is worried. We are praying that he gets out safely,” added Vijaykumar.

Another Indian in Sanaa said that they are safe for now but have approached the embassy to initiate the evacuation.

“Strikes are on in the night. We hear sounds of bombings, but as we stay inside the hospital compound, we have not faced any kind of trouble so far. However, if the situation deteriorates, we may go back. Only my wife and I are in Sanaa now.

The children were sent back to India when the crisis began,” Rahmath Karanath, an employee at a hospital in Sanaa, told the Times of Oman over the phone.

Pakistan has also devised a comprehensive plan for the evacuation of more than 3,000 of its stranded

citizens in Yemen.

Yemen, which has been wrecked by instability since former president Ali Abdullah Saleh stepped down amid massive protests in 2012, has been plunged into more trouble with the Houthi rebellion overtaking Sanaa causing president Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi to flee.

Hadi was in Oman last Thursday for a medical check-up while on his way to Riyadh the same day.

Military intervention On Saturday, Hadi called on a Saudi-led military intervention in his country to continue until the Houthi rebels surrender and their leaders are brought to justice.

“I call for this operation to continue until this gang surrenders and withdraws from all locations it has occupied in every province,” he told at an Arab summit in the Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh.

Meanwhile, reports are emerging that explosions rocked Aden’s largest arms depot on Saturday, sending flames and smoke into the sky above the southern Yemeni city.

Quoting a health official, AFP reported that at least 54 people have been killed in three days of fighting between rebels and rival militia in Yemen’s main southern city Aden.

Last Saturday, Oman received 40 Yemenis who were injured in a bomb blast that killed scores of worshippers at a Friday prayer.

Meanwhile, quoting a Gulf diplomatic official, AFP reported on Saturday that air strikes against

rebels in Yemen could last up to six months.

“Initially Saudi Arabia and its allies had anticipated a one-month air campaign but it could last five to six months,” the official was quoted as saying.

The report added that the threeday-old campaign had been successful so far, destroying targets, including 21 Scud missiles.

Diplomats in the Gulf said Saudi Arabia and its allies had decided to intervene after satellite imagery in late January showed the movement of Scud missiles to the north towards the Saudi border, with the capacity to strike a large part of the kingdom’s territory.

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman vowed that the military intervention his government is leading would continue until it brings “security” to the Yemeni people.

Saudi warships evacuated dozens of foreign diplomats from Aden hours before the kingdom launched air strikes on the advancing rebels, said state television on Saturday.

The official SPA news agency said that 86 people had been pulled out on Wednesday.

However, diplomats in the Gulf were quoted as saying that they feared an “Iranian reaction” to their air campaign. “Iran will respond with terrorist acts in the Gulf,” the reports quoted the official as saying.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has also told fellow Arab leaders that the region faced “unprecedented” threats.

—With inputs from agencies

is so full of conflicts, and bring them to a more beautiful world.

Conductor Guerassim Voronkov was also a treat. His frizzy white Einstein-like hair bounced in tune with the music, which he seemed to fully embody, letting notes drop from his arms or pop energetically from his shoulders. His love of the music was infectious, not just inspiring the musicians but also

bringing smiles to the faces of the concert-goers.

The Czech National Symphony Orchestra was also wonderful, playing a number of high-energy, dramatic pieces. While Beczala was clearly the star of the night, the orchestra brought a special spark to much of the music, playing with great enthusiasm. From their opening piece, the overture from

Verdi’s Nabucco, they displayed a colourful, lively approach to playing which added to the appeal of the concert.

Sadly, the audience was rather small, but despite the poor attendance Beczala, Voronkov and the Czech National Symphony Orchestra performed with the utmost passion and earned very loud applauses and cheers.

Oman’s natural wealth on show The roadshow has four sections for the animal, plant, marine and microbial kingdoms

Times News Service MUSCAT: A roadshow that aims to raise awareness of direct and indirect value of genetic resources to our lives, is proving to be a huge success, said a top official.

The roadshow has now completed its visits to Muscat, Rustaq and Sohar. “We had anticipated that the roadshow would attract a lot of visitors but we have been truly overwhelmed by its popularity. The number of visitors has exceeded all expectations,” said a delighted Dr Nadiya Al Saady, executive director of the Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources Centre (OAPGRC).

During its launch at Sultan Qaboos University, (SQU), ‘The Treasures of Oman Roadshow’ attracted 566 students from 14 schools along with 27 teachers. While it was in Rustaq, 1,104 children and 68 teachers from 26 schools and 2,422 members of the public flocked to see it. Sohar saw the roadshow welcoming 1,040 visitors, which included 791 stu-

Dr Nadiya Al Saady, executive director, Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources Centre.

PLAN SCHEDULE

Buraimi: March 29, 30

Ibri:

April 1 and 2

Nizwa: Ibra:

April 5 and 9

April 12 and 13,

Sur: April 15 and 16,

Haima: April 20, 21

Salalah: April 26, 30

dents and 21 staff members from 39 schools.

“The response is particularly gratifying because of the important messages we are communicating to our young people in particular,” said Dr Nadiya. “Firstly,

we want to raise awareness of the direct and indirect value of genetic resources to all our lives and encourage everyone to get involved in their preservation and conservation. And secondly, we want to reveal the immense possibilities of the role genetic resources will play in the future. Discoveries from plants, animals, marine life and microbes can feed and clothe us, as well as generate significant economic benefits for Oman. We want to spark an interest in careers in science, in genetic resources – from academia to industry to entrepreneurship – so that the youth of Oman can benefit from the growing number of opportunities that are opening up,” she said.

Carried to each of its destinations on a uniquely designed, adapted and branded truck, the roadshow has four fun-filled sections, one each for the animal, plant, marine and microbial kingdoms. Established by Royal order in 2012, with a mission to promote the recognition, sustainable utilisation and value of the genetic diversity in Oman’s animals, plants, marine life and microorganisms as a natural heritage resource, the OAPGRC was created specifically to advance the sustainable use of animal and plant genetic resources through education, research and innovation. This work aims to benefit not only Oman but the wider international community through a collaborative regional centre for all animal and plant genetic resources activities, promoting the sustainable use of knowledge across economic sectors.

TRIBUTES TO HM

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Sultanate endeavours to diffuse conflicts

While the Sultanate is very keen on promoting principles which result in a friendly neighbourhood, non-interference in others’ affairs, co-operation with countries of the region and the world for a common interest and compliance with international law and legitimacy, His Majesty still believes that it is important to make every possible effort to serve the interests of the countries and peoples in the region.

Oman is endeavouring to promote dialogue and diffuse conflicts as this will help in promoting peace in a region that has been suffering the dire consequences of wars for decades.

It has become a model of peace, thanks to HM’s wisdom, farsighted vision and belief in the importance of peace, security and stability for development.

The Sultanate has insisted on demarcating the borders with its neighbours by promoting the principle of ‘no harm by or against’.

Its strategic location has helped

the country to become a logistics hub and play an important role in trade and transport between the Gulf region and the world.

Oman also endeavours to defend its national interests and land against any infringements because the type of peace promoted by it depends on mutual respect and a friendly neighbourhood.

Under the wise leadership of His Majesty, the stance of the Sultanate remains unchanged whether outside or in closed door meetings.

It has been known to work quietly and sincerely to achieve common aims and does not support severing of relations with brothers. Therefore, it is not surprising at all that the Sultanate is trusted and has high credibility among countries of the world. The leadership is also held in high esteem by the Gulf, Arab and world leaders.

In many Arab, Gulf and international conflicts, the country’s stance was proved right with its

ability to promote dialogue and help disputing parties meet away from tension.

The US-Iranian meetings, facilitated by Oman, paved the way for a September 2013 deal on Iran’s nuclear programme. It also paved the way for the ongoing talks. There are numerous instances where the Sultanate’s good offices, thanks to His Majesty strategic thinking and awareness of the development of the Omani history, have resolved crises. Its true values and solid base allow it to play a positive role in promoting security, peace and stability.

So, it is not surprising that everyone is happy with the safe return of His Majesty. –ONA

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SU N DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

OMAN

Considerations of return on investment must move from input to output, and be tested and measured against Oman’s national strategy and priorities as well as global standards Prof. Kathryn Bindon, programme director of Takatuf Scholars

CABLES

His Majesty receives more greetings from leaders MUSCAT: Following his safe return to his homeland last week, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has received a cable of congratulations from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia.

In his cable, King Salman expressed his sincere greetings and best wishes for His Majesty’s good health, happiness and a long life.

Good wishes from Bahrain His Majesty the Sultan has also received a cable of greetings from King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain. The Bahrain sover-

eign prayed to Almighty Allah to grant His Majesty good health, happiness and a long life for further peace and progress in the Sultanate.

Greetings from Morocco His Majesty the Sultan has also received a cable of congratulation from King Mohammed VI of Morocco. In his cable, King Mohammed VI expressed his sincere greetings along with his wishes of good health, happiness and a long life to His Majesty the Sultan and the Omani people further progress and prosperity under His Majesty’s wise leadership.

Good wishes from UAE His Majesty the Sultan has also received cables of good wishes from Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE and Ruler of Ajman; Prince Maqrin bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, crown prince and deputy prime minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, crown prince of Abu Dhabi; Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, crown prince of Ajman; Sheikh Nasser bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, deputy ruler of Ajman and Ahmet Davutoglu, Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey.–ONA

Oman Air grows 4%; losses down

At the annual general meeting of Oman Air, the chairman said that the financial progress of the national carrier in 2014 was matched by improvements in passenger experience

Times News Service MUSCAT: National carrier Oman Air has achieved a four per cent growth in revenue at OMR398.389 million in 2014, while the airline’s losses were reduced by four per cent to OMR95.866 million, the airline said in a statement.

This was announced at the annual general meeting of the airline, attended by Darwish bin Ismail Al Balushi, Oman Air’s chairman and Paul Gregorowitsch, chief executive officer.

In addition, Oman Air carried 5.1 million passengers in 2014, up from 4.9 million during the previous year. More than 23,500 round trips were recorded and capacity in 2014 rose to 15.2 billion available seat kilometres, with an average seat factor of 74.4 per cent being achieved.

The year also saw Oman Air consistently add new aircraft to its fleet, with the first of the Airbus A330s and Boeing B737s it has had on order being delivered in the fourth quarter. The airline has also opened four new destinations on established routes.

Oman Air’s staff at Muscat International Airport also handled 41,450 flights and 8.7 million passengers over the course of the year. Of these flights, 18,000 were operated by airlines other than Oman Air, resulting in an increase to OMR18 million in the total handling fees received in 2014.

Oman Air’s catering division served 6.7 million meals in 2014, up from 6.5 million in 2013, and increased revenues year-on-year by three per cent.

A healthy growth in income from rooms, food and beverages was also recorded.

“Oman Air is guided by a de-

Oman Air revenue growth (In million OMR)

450

381.71

398.39

2013

2014

300 150 0

LANDMARKS

Number of passengers increased to 5.1million

Fleet

and network expansion programme launched

23,500 round trips operated

8.7

million passengers handled at Muscat International Airport

Losses reduced by four per cent to OMR96million

Social and economic benefit to Oman totals OMR420million

velopment plan which was endorsed by the board of directors in 2013. This has seen our company invest significantly in new narrow-body and wide body aircraft, new destinations, technology and staff. The size of our fleet is expected to increase as per this plan to 50 aircraft by 2018, with a further increase to 70 aircraft being achieved by 2020,” said Al Balushi.

“Throughout, we have held fast to two fundamental aims, The first, to ensure that every Oman Air customer experiences the best possible products and services, and second, to pursue our unwavering commitment to achieving profitability,” he stated.

“It is, therefore, with a sense of satisfaction that we have carried more passengers to more destinations than ever before. We have increased our capacity and the number of round trips we have operated. We have served more meals and handled more passengers at Muscat,” he said.

“And crucially, we have increased our revenues by four per cent to more than OMR398 million, and reduced our loss by four per cent to less than OMR96 million. As a result, Oman Air is a leaner, fitter and more efficient business. We are well positioned for continued expansion and have confirmed our advance towards profitability,” added Al Balushi.

Furthermore, a recent study on the contributions made by businesses to the national economy showed that Oman Air’s operational activities have delivered social and economic returns for the Sultanate of OMR420 million.

“I look forward to watching Oman Air’s sustained progress in 2015, under the dynamic and decisive leadership of our new Chief Executive Officer Paul Gregorowitsch,” he said.

The chairman also said that Oman Air’s financial progress in 2014 was matched by continuing improvements in the passenger experience offered to customers. Following the refurbishment of Oman Air’s premium checkin facility at Muscat, the airline opened its newly-upgraded First Class and Business Class checkin facility in September. This was complemented by excellent facilities at Salalah International Airport, once again confirming Salalah as a vital station within Oman Air’s network.

In addition, in November 2014, Oman Air unveiled brand-new Business Class and Economy Class cabins. Each offers outstanding space and comfort, whilst also enabling the airline to increase the number of passenger it carries.

DEVELOPMENT

Arab Women Media to hold social meeting MUSCAT: Ways to promote social responsibility and review of successful experiences in social responsibility by leading NGOs in community service, will be the focus of a seminar here.

The Social Responsibility Conference, being organised by Arab Women Media, will be held at the College of Tourism on April 29.

The conference aims to shed light on the status of the Omani private companies and investments in taking care of social responsibility and cement a culture of responsibility in the private sector enterprises.

The conference will also focus on the growing role of the Omani non-governmental organisations (NGO) and the growth of the private sector.

A number of government agencies, private sector institutions, academic bodies and companies will participate in the conference.–ONA

S U N DAY, MAR C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

REGION

People entering to take weapons were killed by others who didn’t find what they were looking for Aden resident

9 dead in Aden as looters rampage munitions depot Troops guarding the depot abandoned their posts this week after their commanders fled as chaos tightened its grip on war-torn Yemen

EXPLOSIONS: Smoke billows from the site of an explosion that hit

an arms depot in Yemen’s second city of Aden on Saturday. — AFP

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ADEN: A series of explosions rocked an arms depot in Yemen’s second city of Aden Saturday, killing at least nine people as looters swarmed the facility, witnesses and an official said.

The blasts were heard across the city and pillars of smoke rose from the depot, where looting had broken out a day earlier, an AFP correspondent reported.

The depot is at the foot of Jabal Hadid mountain overlooking the port, and a large amount of weapons dating back to the Soviet era were stored in a cave there.

Troops guarding the depot abandoned their posts this week after their commanders fled as chaos tightened its grip on the war-torn country.

Houses shook, windows were shattered and several nearby

The depot is at the foot of Jabal Hadid mountain overlooking the port, and a large amount of Soviet era weapons were stored in a cave there

buildings were destroyed in Saturday’s explosions, residents said.

“We have so far retrieved nine charred bodies,” health department director Al Kheder Lassouar said.

“We have information that there are more bodies inside that we were not able to reach” as explosions continued after people entered the depot to loot it, he added.

Many people were inside or on Jabal Hadid when the explosions took place, witnesses said, reporting that several had died in the looting even before the blasts.

One resident who was at the mountain earlier on Saturday be-

fore the explosions told AFP that “there were many dead bodies in the cave”.

“People entering to take weapons were killed by others who didn’t find what they were looking for,” he said.

Others reported seeing several people die of suffocation after inhaling toxic gases released from gunpowder stored inside the deep cave. Several others were stabbed, residents say.

AFP could not confirm these reports from official sources as fighting between local militias and Houthi rebels killed 61 people in three days, according to Lassouar. — AFP

R U D I M E N TA RY B O M B

8 wounded in Cairo blast CAIRO: A bomb wounded four civilians and four policemen outside Cairo University on Saturday, Egyptian police and health officials said.

Several explosions outside the university have taken place since the army ousted president Mohamed Morsi in 2013, the last of which wounded five policemen in November.

The attacks were claimed by a Cairo-based militant group called Ajnad Misr (Soldiers of Egypt), but no one has yet claimed Saturday’s explosion.

The rudimentary bomb was placed at the exit of a metro station that serves the university, the police official said. — AFP

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SU N DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

INDIA CONTROVERSIAL BILL

‘Government not making land ordinance prestige issue, willing for debate’ VARANASI: Even as it looked set to re-promulgate the Land Acquisition Ordinance, the government on Saturday insisted that it was not making it a “prestige” issue and was willing to have a discussion with opposition parties to sort out differences.

“It is not a prestige issue for us... We need to change the law of 2013 for the development of the country, especially the villages,” Finance Minister Arun Jaitley told reporters here while replying to questions over the controversial Land Ordinance.

“We brought nine amendments to our original bill and are still willing to sit with opposition parties who are objecting to the bill.

“If they have any suggestions which would be beneficial for the country, we are ready to discuss...

“The opposition should give up its adamant attitude. It will be good for the country,” he added.

His comment came a day after the government decided to prorogue the Rajya Sabha where the Land Acquisition Bill is stuck and re-promulgate Ordinance on the same as the earlier one lapses on April 5.

The Budget session of Parliament is currently in a month-long recess since March 20 and will

It is not a prestige issue for us... We need to change the law of 2013 for the development of the country, especially the villages Arun Jaitley, Finance minister

India all set for own navigational system KEY FACTS With this launch, the

to operationalise

The first three satellites in IRNSS series were launched on July 1, 2013, April 4 and October 16 last year respectively.

LAUNCH: Union Finance Minister

the Indian Regional

Arun Jaitley at the launch of Jal Shav Vahini in Varanasi on Saturday. - PTI

Navigation Satellite

country is poised

re-convene on April 20. Under the Constitution, at least one of the Houses has to be prorogued for government to issue an Ordinance.

Justifying the need to amend the Land Act of 2013, Jaitley said that law is a “hindrance” in the path of development as it “does not give permission” to acquire land for key infrastructure projects like PM Gram Sadak Yojana, irrigation, rural electrification, housing-forall as well as airports and seaports.

Jaitley attacked Congress, alleging that its main objective is to stall the ruling National Democratic Alliance’s policies and is not concerned about the development of the country. He also alleged that the opposition is “misleading” public on the issue. - PTI

IRNSS-1D satellite will provide navigation, tracking and mapping services and have a mission life of 10 years

System, having put into orbit four of the seven satellites

SRIHARIKOTA: India is set to operationalise its own navigational system with the successful launch of IRNSS-1D, the fourth in the series of seven navigational satellites, onboard PSLV-C27 from here on Saturday.

At the end of the 59.5 hour countdown, PSLV-C27, the timetested launch vehicle of the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro), lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre here at 5.19 pm and injected the satellite into orbit about 21 minutes later.

AMBUSH

Two policemen killed in Aizawl AIZAWL: Three armed policemen were killed and two others injured when suspected militants belonging to the Manipur-based Hmar People’s Convention-Democracy (HPC-D) attacked members of an Assembly panel in Zokhawthiang in Aizawl district bordering Manipur on Saturday, police said.- PTI

A beaming Isro Chairman A. S. Kiran Kumar, for whom this is the first project after taking charge of the space agency, said the mission was successful and the satellite has been placed in precise orbit.

“I congratulate the entire Isro team for the 28th straight successful PSLV mission which has put the IRNSS-1D,the fourth of the navigation constellation satellite successfully,” Kumar said.

He said the PSLV had demonstrated that it had come of age and despite the hiccup in the originally planned launch schedule, which had to be postponed from March 9 due to a problem in one

of the sub-systems, “We have had a successful launch today.”

With this launch, the country is poised to operationalise the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), having put into orbit four of the seven satellites.

Sufficient for operations “This mission has got significance because we are completing the minimum essential requirement of four satellites in the orbit to start the navigation process,” Project Director P. Kunhikrishnan said.

IRNSS-1D, which will provide navigation, tracking and map-

ping service and have a mission life of 10 years, is the fourth in the constellation of seven satellites, planned by Isro to constitute IRNSS, which would be on par with US-based GPS once the full complement of spacecrafts are launched.

While four satellites would be sufficient to start operations of the IRNSS system, the remaining three would make it more accurate and efficient.

In yet another text-book launch and the first mission of Isro this year, the 44.4 metre tall four-stage Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle with a lift-off mass of 1,425kg soared into clear sky and released the satellite into its precise orbit as the scientists broke into jubilation.

The XL variant of PSLV, which has six solid rocket strap-on motors to augment the thrust provided by the first stage, was used for the mission, which is the 28th successful flight for the rocket.

The IRNSS system, planned to be completed by this year at a total cost of Rs1,420 crore, will be targeted at South Asia and is designed to provide accurate position information services to users in the country as well as the region extending up to 1,500km from its boundary. - PTI

FEUD WITH CENTRE

Mizoram governor Qureshi sacked NEW DELHI: Mizoram Governor Aziz Qureshi, who has had a running feud with the Centre and even approached the Supreme Court against attempts to ease him out, was sacked on Saturday.

A brief statement issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan said that “Qureshi shall cease to hold the office of the Governor of Mizoram.”

Governor of West Bengal Keshari Nath Tripathi has been asked to discharge the functions of the Mizoram Governor, in addition to his own duties, until regular arrangements are made, it said.

Qureshi, who had a tenure till May 2017, is the second governor after Kamla Beniwal to be sacked after having been shifted to Mizoram months after the Narendra Modi government assumed office.

Maharashtra Governor K. Sankaranarayanan, who was also transferred to Mizoram, had tendered his resignation, refusing to take charge of his new assignment.

Qureshi, who was among the Governors appointed by the UPA government and was told by the then Home Secretary Anil Goswami to quit after change in Government, approached the Supreme Court against attempts to ease him out. He was then the Uttarakhand Governor.

In his petition, Qureshi, a veteran Congress leader, had claimed that after the NDA government came to power, Goswami had called him on July 30 and asked him to tender resignation and made it clear that he will be removed from office if he does

not step down. He alleged, in his petition, that Goswami again called him on August 8 insisting that he resign.

Goswami had said in his reply to the Supreme Court that he had, with authority and justification, “suggested” to Qureshi that he should consider resigning on his own since his actions were not “behoving the status of the Governor” and showed the constitutional office in “very poor light” apart from “bringing it into disrespect”.

After the new Government took over, many governors appointed by the previous UPA regime were eased out which included Beniwal, 87, who had served in Gujarat earlier and had a running battle with Modi when he was the state’s chief minister. - PTI

S U N DAY, MAR C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

APRIL 10-16

‘Three-nation visit to focus on economic agenda, job creation’ NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his tour to France, Germany and Canada from April 10-16 would be focused on supporting India’s national economic agenda through programmes like Make in India in order to create jobs for the youth.

In a series of tweets, linked to his Facebook post, Modi spoke about his upcoming three-nation tour — his second overseas visit this year after to the Indian Ocean countries of Seychelles, Mauritius and Sri Lanka earlier in March.

“My France, Germany and Canada visit is centred around supporting India’s economic agenda and creating jobs for our youth. Will discuss strengthening India-France economic cooperation and visit some hightech industrial units outside Paris. In Germany, Chancellor Merkel and I will jointly inaugurate Hannover Messe where India is a partner country. Looking forward to enhancing ties with Canada and interacting with leaders, captains of industry and diaspora in Canada,” he tweeted.

“I am honouring long standing invitations from three of our most important partners, who have strong friendships with India.”

On France, where he goes on the first leg, Modi said that he

INDIA

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would “seek greater French involvement in our Make in India Programme, including in the defence manufacturing sector”.

Terming France “one of our most important strategic partners”, he said it has stood with India at difficult moments, noting its “understanding and support” after the Pokhran nuclear tests in 1998 and was also then prime minister Atal Behari Vajpayee’s first destination for a bilateral visit thereafter.

He noted the strong cooperation in the defence sector, which “currently includes construction of six advanced submarines in India” as well as in space and in civil nuclear energy co-operation.

There are “huge opportunities for collaboration in the manufacturing and infrastructure with France, including in the railways sector”, he said.

“I also look forward to discussing ways in which we can deepen our security cooperation include counter-terrorism as well as space, cyber and maritime security”.

In Germany, where he will be from April 12-14, Modi said the main focus would be to participate in the Hannover Industrial Trade Fair, which will be inaugurated jointly by him and German Chancellor Angela Merkel on April 12. - IANS

KATRINA’S STATUE UNVEILED

British-Indian film actress and model Katrina Kaif , second right, poses with dancers beside a wax figure of herself. third right, at Madame Tussauds in London, on Friday. - AFP

A9

Rebel leaders removed from AAP policy panel Immediately after their removal, Prashant Bhushan and Yogendra Yadav termed the National Council meet as ‘unconstitutional and illegal’ and did not rule out taking legal recourse against their removal

NEW DELHI: The month-long face-off in Aam Aadmi Party climaxed on Saturday with the expulsion of dissident leaders Prashant Bhushan and Yogendra Yadav from its National Executive, in a possible precursor for their final ouster from the party.

Amid chaos and high drama, a resolution to remove the two dissidents from the powerful panel was passed immediately after party Chief Arvind Kejriwal left the National Council following his hourlong speech in which he asked over 300 members present to choose him or the duo.

The resolution was introduced

by Kejriwal loyalist Manish Sisodia. The resolution for expulsion of Yadav and Bhushan along with their supporters Anand Kumar and Ajit Jha was passed by 247 members, AAP National Secretary Pankaj Gupta said, adding while 10 members opposed it, 54 others did not take part in the voting.

Immediately after their removal, Bhushan and Yadav termed the NC meet as “unconstitutional and illegal” and did not rule out taking legal recourse against their removal.

Medha Patkar resigns Reacting to the NC decision, AAP’s well-known leader Medha Patkar addressed a press conference in the west Indian city of Mumbai where she announced her resignation from the party, saying Yadav and Bhushan could never

SPELLING OUT : Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan talking to the media after they were expelled from the Aam Aadmi Party National Executive at Kapashera in New Delhi on Saturday. - PTI

Crisis reflects power struggle in Aam Aadmi Party: BJP NEW DELHI: Terming the tussle within Aam Aadmi Party a “struggle for power” that reflected “opportunism”, Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday said national capital Delhi will not see any progress in such a situation and those who were elected to form the government would have to answer to the public for letting them down.

work against the party. Yadav and Bhushan said AAP’s Lokpal Admiral L. Ramdas (retd), who has been attending party’s NC meets, was asked by the AAP leadership last evening not to attend the meeting as his presence could result in “confrontation”.

Accusing Kejriwal of being dictatorial and using unfair means, the duo alleged that his people got goons to the NC meeting who beat up members opposed to the resolution.

“It was a murder of democracy.

Everything played out in accordance with a predetermined script and the resolution was moved and passed within minutes completely disregarding laid down procedures. It was a total farce,” said an

The sole opposition party in Delhi Assembly also charged that AAP’s internal conflict was neither a fight of principles and nor did it involve values or have any element of democracy, principles which the ruling outfit likes to boast about.

“Essentially, this is an internal matter of AAP. But people gave an historic mandate to this party hoping that develop-

agitated Yadav. Bhushan said, “It is true that we can move the court, Election Commission or call another meeting of the NC. All options are open.”

During his speech, Kejriwal gave an account of party’s journey to power in Delhi.

Allegation He also alleged that Yadav and Bhushan, the founder members, were trying to weaken the party.

Bhushan accused Kejriwal of coming fully prepared to “kick us out” from the party and that a number of National Council members, who supported him and Yadav, were injured.

“Whatever Kejriwal was heard

ment will take place in Delhi and it can become a global city. “(But) if we look at the developments over the last few days, clearly, all of this has to do with the fight for power.

It is a fight of opportunism,” said BJP national spokesperson Nalin Kohli even as he reiterated the party’s charge that the Kejriwal-led party had “betrayed” the people of Delhi. - PTI

saying in a sting yesterday was played out in the entirety in today’s meeting. There was no distinction between members and others.

There was no discussion, no secret vote, no showing of votes in the meeting,” he said. According to an audio sting which surfaced on Friday, Kejriwal was heard purportedly using expletives against Yadav and Bhushan and even threatening to form a new party.

“There was no truth in their allegations. The decision to remove them was taken following due procedures,” AAP leader Sanjay Singh said. Another AAP leader Ashutosh accused Yadav of “spreading lies” that NC members were beaten up in meeting. - PTI

A10

SU N DAY, MARCH 29, 2015 We have put into use every tool at our disposal to get them back. We have delivered them to their families safely today Izzet Sahin, Turkish Muslim humanitarian organisation IHH official

PAKISTAN

Two Czech women abducted in 2013 freed, return home Hana Humpalova and Antonie Chrastecka, both psychology students, were kidnapped on March 13, 2013, in Balochistan while being escorted by a tribal policeman after crossing into Pakistan from Iran on holiday

PRAGUE: Two young Czech women kidnapped in Pakistan in 2013 have been freed and have returned home, the country’s Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka said Saturday.

“I can confirm that Hana Humpalova and Antonie Chrastecka have already returned to the Czech Republic,” Sobotka told the CT24 news channel.

He added that the two 26-yearold women were freed with the help of the Turkish Muslim humanitarian organisation IHH. “I would like to ask the media to respect the women’s privacy,” Sobotka added.

A dream Turkey’s state-run Anadolu news agency quoted Chrastecka as saying: “I still can’t believe I am here.

Even now, I fear this is a dream.”

The agency said Chrastecka and Humpalova had arrived in

FREE AT LAST: A handout picture taken on Friday and released on Saturday by the IHH (The Foundation for Human Rights and Freedom and Humanitarian Relief) shows two Czech women Antonie Chrastecka, left, and Hana Humpalova, right, posing after being rescued in Van, eastern Turkey. — AFP /IHH

the eastern Turkish province of Van late on Friday following two months of “intense” talks.

Izzet Sahin, the IHH official leading the negotiations with the kidnappers, told the agency the families of the victims had contacted the Turkish charity as a last resort after exhausting all other means to save the pair.

“We have put into use every tool at our disposal to get them back.

We have delivered them to their families safely today,” Sahin told Anadolu, adding that the charity

still did not know why the Czechs had been kidnapped.

Humpalova and Chrastecka, both psychology students, were kidnapped on March 13, 2013, in the southwestern Balochistan province while being escorted by a tribal policeman after crossing into Pakistan from Iran on holiday.

In a video released shortly after the kidnapping, the two young Czechs pleaded for the release of Pakistani neuroscientist Aafia Siddiqui, jailed in 2010

in the United States on charges of terrorist links.

In another video shot in August 2013 and released two months later, Humpalova called on the Czech government to exert pressure on Islamabad to return her to her homeland “as soon as possible”.

Speaking to Anadolu, Humpalova said: “It was very hard. For the first time in our lives we saw weapons and armed men.”

“We still do not know why were taken.

“There were weapons fired and

bombs going off. But we got used to it in time.”

She said the worst part of their two-year ordeal was being apart from their families.

“From the first moment I was kidnapped, I wanted to be with them. I am so happy right now and so excited,” Chrastecka said.

Kidnappings plague parts of Balochistan, where criminals looking for ransoms snatch foreigners and locals, sometimes passing their hostages on to militant groups. — AFP

INSURGENCY

Rebels deny 30 killed in Khyber fighting PESHAWAR: Pakistan security forces killed 30 militants in gun battles in the mountainous northwestern Khyber region on Saturday, a senior official said, but a spokesman for the militants denied suffering any losses.

Both sides have been making conflicting claims about their success in clashes in Tirah Valley, near the Afghan border, and there is no way to confirm casualties independently as the area is sealed off to journalists.

“The security forces had started advancement towards the hilltops where the terrorists had established sanctuaries,” a senior security official in Peshawar, who requested that he not be identified, said.

“So far, 30 terrorists have been killed and a number of their compounds destroyed.”

He said “fierce” fighting was continuing.

The bodies of 10 Pakistan Taliban fighters were taken away along with weapons and ammunition, the military said in a statement.

Three soldiers were also wounded, it said.

The air force, struggling to reclaim land lost to the militants years ago, has been pounding positions in the Tirah Valley for days and the military said before Saturday’s clashes it had killed more than 100 militants. At least seven soldiers had also been killed, it said.

Salahuddin Ayubi, a spokesman for the Lashkar-e-Islami, which announced an alliance with the Pakistan Taliban earlier this month, denied suffering losses on Saturday.

Ayubi said fighting between their fighters and Pakistani forces started early on Saturday in parts of the valley.

“We didn’t suffer human losses.

Our fighters are engaged in fighting and didn’t vacate their posts in Tirah,” he said. — Reuters

FIGHTING TERRORISM

32,000 suspects arrested since Peshawar carnage ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies have arrested over 32,000 people on different charges in more than 28,000 anti-militant operations in the aftermath of the Peshawar school massacre, the government said on Saturday.

The arrests were made after the launch of the National Action Plan (NAP) in December which aims to rid the country of terrorism following Taliban’s massacre at an army school in Peshawar in which 150 people, including 136 students were killed.

32,347 people were arrested on different charges in 28,826 anti-militants operations conducted across the country, the government said.

A report presented to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif states that the security agencies conducted 14,791 operations in Punjab, 5,517 in Sindh, 6,461 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), 84 in Balochistan, 405 in Islamabad, 1,394 in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, 83 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 91 in Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA).

The report is based on information available from December 24, 2014, to March 25, 2015.

It states that under the NAP, the security agencies arrested 32,347 people including 2,798 from Punjab, 6,467 from Sindh,

According to a report, the security agencies conducted 14,791 operations in Punjab, 5,517 in Sindh, 6,461 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 84 in Balochistan, 405 in Islamabad, 1,394 in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, 83 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 91 in Federally Administered Tribal Areas

18,619 from KP, 3,483 from Balochistan, 762 from Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), nine from PoK, 30 from Gilgit-Baltistan and 179 from FATA. Moreover, 37 terrorists were killed during this period and among those arrested also included 727 hardcore militants.

During the said period, 62 convicts have also been executed.

According to the report, 18,855 Afghan Refugees have been deported whereas 354,672 have been registered.

The Federal Investigation Agency has registered 64 cases for money transfer through ‘hawala hundi’ trade, arrested 83 people and recovered Rs 101.7 million during the said period.

Nine cases have also been reg-

istered for suspicious transactions while the agency also registered 57 money laundering cases and arrested 50 people on such charges.

The State Bank of Pakistan also froze 120 accounts containing Rs 10.1 billion under the measures being taken under NAP. Around 2,237 intelligencebased operations were also conducted during this period throughout the country, the report said. — PTI

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MALIK RIAZ

Brand name setback for builder RAWALPINDI: A district court ruled on Saturday in favour of Bahria Foundation and ordered property tycoon Malik Riaz to pay Rs388.13 million as compensation to damages after the latter lost a legal battle over the right to the name ‘Bahria’ for his housing society.

The Bahria Foundation had filed a suit against the business tycoon demanding Rs688.83 million as compensation but the court in its judgment fixed Rs388

million apart from Rs15,000 fine as court fees to be given to plaintiff ( Bahria Foundation).

Use of ‘Bahria’ A court in Rawalpindi accepted the petition of naval subsidiary Bahria Foundation to restrain business tycoon Malik Riaz Hussain’s from using the name ‘Bahria’ for his housing society.

The court handed down a verdict in the case filed against the magnate in 2002.

According to the judgment of Civil Judge Nadiatuz Zehra “claim of plaintiff for recovery of damages of Rs100 million as damages for deliberate and malicious misuse of name of name of Bahria Town/Bahria Foundation is hereby decreed in his favour.”

Besides, the judgement said, “Claim of plaintiff for recovery of Rs187.13 million with interest till realisation of bank rate is hereby decreed in his favour.”

— Express Tribune

S U N DAY, MAR C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

WORLD

If the president was elected by a public vote, it would be correct for this system to switch to a presidential one Ahmet Davutoglu, Prime Minister of Turkey

Alliance of extremists seizes Syria’s Idlib city By taking Idlib, capital of a northwestern province of the same name, hardline insurgents now control a second province after Raqqa, the stronghold of the IS group which has been the target of the US-led air strikes SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY VISIT

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BEIRUT: Extremist groups including Al Qaeda’s Nusra Front have seized the city of Idlib for the first time in Syria’s civil war, fighters and a monitoring group said on Saturday.

By taking Idlib, capital of a northwestern province of the same name, hardline insurgents now control a second province after Raqqa, the stronghold of the IS group which has been the target of US-led air strikes. The hardline majority sect groups have formed an alliance which includes Nusra, Ahrar Al Sham movement and Jund Al Aqsa, but not IS, their rival. They launched the offensive to capture Idlib city on Tuesday.

Syrian officials could not be immediately reached for comment.

LEAVING HOME AND HEARTH: A woman sits in a vehicle with her belongings as she flees Idlib city, in fear of air strikes by the forces of Syria’s President Bashar Al Assad, after rebel fighters took control of the area, on Saturday. -Reuters

State media said fighting continued and the army had managed to halt the insurgents’ advances on the northern, eastern and southern sides of the city.

“The army is fighting fierce battles to restore the situation back to what it was,” state television said, adding that the army had killed hundreds of fighters.

Roaming the streets Groups taking part in the offensive to seize the city posted videos on the internet showing fighters roaming the streets. Voices in the videos said they were in the centre of the city.

The film showed insurgents shooting in the air and chanting “Allahu Akbar” (God is greatest)

outside a compound formerly held by government forces.

Idlib, a city whose population has been swollen by hundreds of thousands of displaced people from other parts of Syria, is close to the strategic highway linking Damascus to Aleppo and to the coastal province of Latakia, a stronghold of President Bashar Al Assad.

“They have entered the city from several sides but the major push was from the northern and western sides,” said Rami Abdelrahman of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a British-based group which monitors the civil war. The extremist alliance calls its operation Army of Fatah.

Footage posted on the inter-

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net earlier on Saturday by Nusra Front showed dozens of fighters in the streets of what a voiceover said was Idlib city. “This is my house, for four years I have not entered it.

This is my neighbourhood, this is our country and by God’s will we will liberate it and settle Muslims in it,” a fighter said in the video.

He was welcomed by several men. Some embraced him and wept. In another video, fighters were shown on top of a building which bore the insignia of Assad’s Baath party, trying to tear down huge posters of the president.

Syria’s four-year-old war has killed more than 220,000 people and forced millions out of their homes. -Reuters

TURKEY

Davutoglu denies rift with Erdogan ISTANBUL: Turkey should adopt a presidential system, the country’s prime minister has declared, refuting claims of differences with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan over the idea.

The statement comes after a major rift between Erdogan and the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in the run up to the June 7 parliamentary election where the AKP will seek to change the constitution to give Erdogan’s office more powers.

“If the president was elected by a public vote, it would be correct for this system to switch to a presiden-

tial one,” Ahmet Davutoglu said in an interview with private Haberturk television late on Friday. “A presidential system is the right thing for Turkey,” he said.

Davutoglu said the current system was causing confusion over power sharing and it should either be a clear parliamentary system or a clear presidential one so that whoever has power is held accountable.

“Our president is right: it shouldn’t be half-parliamentary or half-presidential,” he said, adding that there was “no disagreement at all” with Erdogan. -AFP

A12

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A dangerous escalation is under way in Iraq

B

y ordering the bombing of the Iraqi city of Tikrit, President Obama has escalated America’s involvement in the fight against the Islamic State without providing a shred of evidence showing how it could advance American interests, or what happens once the bombs stop falling. The strikes are part of a campaign that from the outset has been waged without the authorization from Congress required by the Constitution. Obama is pursuing the operation at the request of Iraqi officials, who said air power was needed to break a stalemate. His reliance on two Bush-era war authorisations, for Afghanistan and Iraq, is insufficient to embroil the nation in the war against IS, which has been underway for eight months and could continue for years.

Obama ordered the airstrikes after the nearly four-week-old ground offensive to retake the city had stalled. Tikrit is a strategic crossroads in the heart of central Iraq, and its liberation from IS control could make it easier to liberate Mosul, Iraq’s second-largest city, which is now also under the control of the extremists.

The militias have a brutal record of sectarian bloodletting, including burning and bulldozing thousands of homes and other buildings in dozens after American airstrikes drove IS out of the town of Amerli in northeastern Iraq last summer. If that happens in Tikrit, the United States would be blamed for helping to trigger yet another cycle of horrific sectarian violence.

The administration may hope that a victory in Tikrit will bolster the standing of Iraq’s Prime Minister, Haider Al Abadi, who has made some strides in restoring Baghdad’s credibility after the disastrous tenure of his predecessor, Nuri Al Maliki. There was also hope of ensuring that the Americans would be the dominant foreign force in any coalition that attempts at some point to retake Mosul. Before ordering the airstrikes, Obama reportedly insisted that the Iraqi Army play a larger role, and on Thursday Iraqi special forces were reported to be advancing on Tikrit.

The core problem is that if IS is expelled from Tikrit, the Americans and Iraqis will need to bring security and ensure there is a government that respects the rights of all citizens. That should involve reaching out to all sections of society and assuring them that they will be central to rebuilding, securing and governing their city. It has long been apparent that no amount of American military assistance alone can save Iraq if the country’s leaders continue to marginalise the other sect.

Relief aid, including electricity and water, should be delivered immediately to Tikrit. The militias must be marginalised or their fighters integrated into Iraqi institutions like the army and the police so that they serve the state rather than a warlord or faction. Spiritual leader can have an important function in making the case for a more inclusive government. So can all other players dabbling in Iraq.- The New York Times News Service

MATTER OF FACT

Threat from failed states more perceived than real

A

DEBASISH MITRA

No end to Gaza’s grief

I

t is misguided to speak of equivalence between Israeli and Palestinian aggression in Gaza. Nearly 1,500 Palestinian civilians died in last year’s Israeli onslaught, according to the UN, and much of the city remains in rubble, as a section of the British media reported this week. The destruction wrought on the Palestinian enclave far outweighs the allegations of rockets fired across the border by Hamas. But it should not be forgotten that there is blame on both sides.

Reckless use of unguided missiles “displayed a flagrant disregard for international humanitarian law”, a report by Amnesty International concludes. Collateral victims included 13 Palestinian civilians, killed by a rocket that went astray.

Gaza, which has been the running sore of the Middle East for as long as anyone can remember, is now political poison for all concerned.

Hamas may have banked on Israel’s assault galvanising its own support in the Strip, but failure to tackle post-war reconstruction is making it increasingly unpopular there. Feuding between Hamas and Fatah, which runs the West Bank, has reignited after a rapprochement last year.

Meanwhile, Benjamin Netanyahu’s truculence, and his opportunistic rejection in the final days of the Israeli election campaign of a two-state solution, may have sealed his victory, but it has provoked the most serious weakening of US support for Israel in many years: from being a rare issue on which Republicans and Democrats agreed, it is rapidly becoming yet another bone of contention between them.

Nobody has a vision for Gaza that offers genuine hope to its increasingly benighted residents. But without addressing Gaza and its miseries, all other initiatives in the region are merely tinkering.

To anybody who proposes a solution to the Israel-Palestine imbroglio, the first question to ask is, “What do you propose doing about Gaza?” If they have no answer, or if the answer is unreal — such as the abolition of Israel — stop listening. - The Independent

UN should now send peace keeping force in Yemen This refers to the news story, Oman braces for arrival of more injured Yemenis (March 28).

The escalating crisis in Yemen is not going to augur well for neighbouring countries. Its effects have already started to be felt. Stock market in Oman has slipped into volatility and experts are saying it is due to the crisis in Yemen. The crisis across the border is intensifying and many fear it may turn into a civil war like what we are now seeing in Libya. If such a situation arises, the neighbouring countries could be badly impacted. A solution to the crisis is in the interest of stability of the entire GCC region and the world should now work towards a quick restoration of peace there.

It will be better if the United Nations can deploy peace keeping forces in Yemen to contain the escalating violence there as this could prove very effective.

Ali Mohammed Muscat

World has long ignored the crisis brewing in Yemen This refers to the news story, Oman braces for arrival of more injured Yemenis (March 28).

The crisis in Yemen has been brewing for long and the world has been ignoring it, virtually allowing it to escalate. The problem seems to have reached out of proportion and is even threatening to spread to the neighbouring countries.

Hussain Muscat

As a matter of fact, the role of failed states in harbouring global terrorism appears increasingly a hyperbole. Undeniably, a few such states do pose threats but to generalise the issue is perhaps a bigger threat, which in long run may lay foundations of neo colonialism

n oft quoted adage says lies travel almost half the world before truth can put its shoes on. Lies, damn lies have always been the bedrock of the American foreign policy. From World War II until now, more so in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, the United States has been framing its foreign policies on perceived threats to its security. First were the Communists and now are the failed states. And worst, almost half the world, especially the whole of Western Europe, have bought the lies virtually without questioning.

With the end of the Cold War the Communists suddenly ceased to be an existential threat to the United States and Western Europe. But the enemy did not die nor did animosity. The threat perception transformed and the Communists were replaced by failed states which, the United States says, are spawning terrorism.

The premise was what the former Cato Institute foreign policy analyst Gary Dempsey aptly articulated saying “if only we (United States) could populate the planet with ‘good’ states, we could eradicate international conflicts and terrorism”. In the United States the conviction that “lack of freedom in one state endangers the peace and freedom of others, and … failed states are a refuge and breeding ground of extremism,” took deep roots especially in the post 9/11 period.

The phantom of terrorism and failed states began to haunt Uncle Sam since the heydays of Cold War. The strategy and the US foreign policy plank, therefore, is not just to gather information and intelligence about America’s enemies but also what the United States National Security Strategy released in September 2002, a year after the 9/11 attacks, said: “to bolster the growth of democracy and sustain peaceful democratic state”.

This spectre that failed states are security threats to the United States and its allies in Western Europe explains America’s over enthusiasm to undertake nation building efforts, make its foreign policy look more like unsolicited social works, undertaking vague and ill conceived missions in remote locales like Haiti, Bosnia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, Syria, Somalia, etc.

And all these owe attribution to a flawed American perception of approaching anarchy from failed states and threats they supposedly pose to its existence. But the question is, are really the failed states pose security threats to the United States and its allies or for that matter to any nation. And we believe that it is time that we take a closer and harder look into a myth that the subsequent American presidents have so carefully build up.

George W. Bush was unequivocal in his assertion claiming that the United States and the world

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The way we see the problem is the problem STEPHEN COVEY

was “threatened less by conquering states than … by failing ones”. Even Robert Gates echoed his former president saying “ in the next 20 years, the gravest threats to America will come from failing states that cannot meet the basic needs — much less the aspirations — of their people”.

The inherent flaws of the concept could not have been starker. Contrary to what the American leaders have traditionally propagated neither the Communists nor the failed states ever posed that serious a security threat either to the United States or to the world.

In his book, Weak Links, foreign policy scholar Stewart Patrick has been unequivocal in his conclusion that “a middle-ranking group of weak but not yet failing (or failed) states (e.g., Kenya, Pakistan) may offer long-term advantages to terrorists than either anarchic zones or strong states”. Patrick has exploded the America’s myth about failed states.

As a matter of fact, the role of failed states in harbouring global terrorism appears increasingly a hyperbole. Undeniably, a few such states do pose threats but to generalise the issue is perhaps a bigger threat, which in long run may lay foundations of neo colonialism.

The Democratic Republic of Congo offers us a classic example in our study into the nexus between failed states and global terrorism. Conservative estimate says that at least five millions have already died in waves of violence that have convulsed the country since the middle of 1990s. Congo certainly is the single most horrific instance of utterly failed state. And yet it hasn’t really posed any perceptible threat either the United States or to the world.

In fact, 13 of the top 20 failed states pose no direct or serious threat of exporting terrorism. It is not that they don’t have terrorism. The terrorism these states have, pose more dangers to their domestic societies than to the world and least to the United States. They are certainly much less a threat to the world than some weak and functional ones which are still not categorised as failed.

Incubation of terrorism and its global export need infrastructure, which cannot be found in failed states. Weaker states, therefore, offers the best option with their ever complying security forces, banking system, air connectivity, ports, rampant corruption among bureaucrats and politicians and opportunities for money laundering.

After all, the 9/11 attacks though were directed from Afghanistan were financed and coordinated from Europe and some stable countries in Asia.

The author is the Opinion Editor of Times of Oman.

All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of Times of Oman. He can be reached at opinioneditor@ timesofoman.com

Will they switch off their air conditioners as well?

This refers to the news story, Oman to switch off lights for Earth Hour (March 28). It is good to know that people in Oman will participate in the Earth Hour 2015 by going dark for an hour to save energy. But, will they also switch off their air conditioners at homes, cinema theatres, shops, malls and cars? I would love to see how many of us will turn off the AC machines.

Deepa Azad Wadi Kabir

Thus, India had to return World Cup with reluctance The Indian cricket team has disappointed millions of fans as they lost against Australia in the semifinal. There was much hype

before the match that India would win the Cup, India will not return the trophy so on and so forth. But, what turned out was a disappointing performance of the men in blue against the Aussies. India lost only one match in the ICC World Cup 2015 and that sealed their fate.

Salih Thacher Maabelah

The ICC World Cup final will be a match to watch The final match of the tournament, between Australia and New Zealand, will be a match to watch.

I am certain that it will be a keenly contested match where neither of the teams will give out even an inch of space to the opponent without a tough fight.

Ashok Panicker Seeb

Letters, 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), by fax (24813153) or by e-mail (times@omantel.net.om)

T I MES OF OM AN

S U N DAY, MAR C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

A1 3

PERSPEC IVE The Sharifs, PM and General all converge for policy reset W

hen both the civilian and military leaderships converge in Pakistan — either willingly or forced by circumstance, the general perception is that it leads to enduring stability.

Sharif and Sharif, for instance, is way more critical to the country’s interests than say, Sharif vs Sharif as appeared to be the case last year when Imran Khan nearly overran the fortress of ‘prime minister’ Sharif — many suspect on some sort of a cue from ‘General’ Sharif!

That shemozzle in Islamabad is now a distant memory with Prime Minister Sharif having realized his two-third majority is slightly more fragile than the numbers appear to suggest and cozy up to the General, whom he had appointed — after long keeping the cards close to his chest — in the hope that his namesake would remain beholden to him.

But, as the Pakistani power corollary suggests, a man who comes to head the world’s seventh largest standing army is more likely to develop a mind of his own, if it has not been discovered already. General Raheel Sharif has not only reinforced the reality bite, but done so quite spectacularly; it even has a popular ring to it given how the armed forces have responded to the massacre of 134 students by the Taliban in Peshawar’s Army Public School last December.

Where the school murder spree stunned the world for its sheer brutality, it also shook Pakistan’s foundations, metaphorically speaking.

Long accustomed to a gingerly, unconvincing approach in the face of ominous threat to its integrity, a mostly resigned nation of 194 million united in grief, but wondered if its luck would ever change.

It was left to the powerful military — after the usual rounds of condemnation from all and sundry — to pick up the gauntlet. It coaxed — in no uncertain terms, one might hasten to add — the political leadership to use parliamentary fiat for a fightback subscribed in the National Action Plan.

The results have been heartening as the khakis have made the offensive count; for a change, it has been targeted and consistent, not cosmetic and erratic. The ability and capacity of terrorists to strike, almost at will in the past, is significantly diminished.

But two developments with great symbolic value since then have also boosted the morale of a nation long mired in a web of cynicism.

The decision to resume — and successfully pull off — the National Day parade after seven years has given Pakistanis hope that their luck might change, after all. The grand show of force — once

KAMRAN REHMAT

Pakistani power corollary suggests, a man who comes to head the world’s seventh largest standing army is more likely to develop a mind of his own, if it has not been discovered already

a much-awaited event on the national calendar — in the heart of the federal capital put across a very significant and strong message: as well as flag the terrorists with a definitive national resolve, it swept away fear and considerably restored hope in a nation looking for assurance.

The parade also brought back fond memories as evident in an emotional rush to the proceedings, the highlight of which was the fly-past led by the air chief!

And in Karachi — long held hostage to criminalization of politics — the security establishment, with the full backing of Prime Minister Sharif, is moving decisively to divest the megapolis of criminal elements.

The ethnic-based MuttahidaQaumi Movement continues to raise a commotion over what it alleges is a one-sided operation. However, it is noticeable that ever since the raid by Rangers on its headquarters Nine Zero on March 11 following a tip-off that led to the recovery of dozens of alleged criminals and weapons, the media is finally finding its voice, no longer as fearful of reprisal as it had been.

In a development whose import is not lost on anyone with even basic political understanding, the PM arrived in Karachi on Wednesday for a detailed briefing on the ongoing operation, which was held at a military base, not the Governor’s House as usual.

Eshratul Ebad, the Sindh Governor, is from the MQM and is currently, facing allegations of having protected criminal elements within the party by using his office following a confessional statement by Umair Siddiqui, a party activist accused of murdering 120 people.

Sharif only reluctantly met an MQM delegation in Islamabad on Friday after ignoring their initial attempts to engage with him in Karachi, but it appeared to be a largely cosmetic exercise since the PM has sought an extension in the execution deadline of Saulat Mirza, a former MQM convict who alleged, in a confessional video hours before he was first scheduled to hang, that the party chief had directly ordered him to murder a city power chief in 1997!

But the MQM is not the only party fretting over what awaits it. The mainstream Pakistan People’s Party, which governs the Sindh province and recently allied with the MQM for the Senate polls appears reticent now, having pulled the offer for it to join the provincial government, for now.

The author is a senior journalist based in Islamabad.

All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely his and not of Times of Oman.

Time to stop demonising the depressed

T

CHRISTOPHER HOOTON

he fight against mental health discrimination took a step forward last week with a call for the abolishment of head-clutching images to illustrate stories about depression, only to take two steps back this morning, with the coverage of Andreas Lubitz’s mental stability.

Why on earth was he allowed to fly? one front page screamed, omitting the obvious answer that it was because he was a qualified pilot.

A Lufthansa spokesperson yesterday confirmed that Lubitz “passed all the subsequent tests and checks with flying colours” and that “his flying abilities were flawless,” but the charge seemed to be that anyone who has experienced depression is unfit for a career involving responsibility.

There is no doubt that Lubitz should not have been in the cockpit. The airline’s reporting system, whereby crew can report their own or others’ problems without fear of being punished, failed with utterly tragic consequences and must be revisited.

Holes were also exposed in its cockpit-locking safety protocol and pilots must not be allowed to fly alone. But sweeping links between depression and mass murder have a horribly stigmatising effect.

Depression affects millions of people and is a complex and varied illness, not one that should be conflated with psychopathy or seen as a signal for murderous actions further down the line.

Winston Churchill wrote ‘to keep the black dog of depression at bay’, while Labour MP John Woodcock in 2013 very humbly wrote about his experience of depression, and how he didn’t think it was a ‘big deal’ professionally or required him to step down. They both enjoyed successful careers.

“The terrible loss of life in the Germanwings plane crash is tragic, and we send our deepest sympathies to the families,” a spokesperson for Time To Change said.

“Whilst the full facts are still emerging, there has been widespread media reporting speculating about the link with the pilot’s

history of depression, which has been overly simplistic.

“Clearly assessment of all pilots’ physical and mental health is entirely appropriate - but assumptions about risk shouldn’t be made across the board for people with depression, or any other illness.

There will be pilots with experience of depression who have flown safely for decades and assessments should be made on a case by case basis.

“Today’s headlines risk adding to the stigma surrounding mental health problems, which millions of people experience each year, and we would encourage the media to report this issue responsibly.”

Attaching stigma to depression will only make it easier for mental instabilities like that apparently suffered by Lubitz more difficult to spot.

We must accept depression as a problem, stop treating people who are blighted by it like unexploded bombs, and seek to better understand it to prevent this ever happening again. - The Independent

The ground is flat and even for all DAVID BROOKS

L

ike a lot of people who pay attention to such things, I had assumed that Democrats had a huge advantage going into next year’s presidential race. Democrats do really well among the growing demographic groups, like Hispanics, single people and the young. Republicans, meanwhile, are doing sensationally well with just about every shrinking group.

If 67-year-old rural white men were the future of the electorate, the GOP would be rolling.

But there’s a growing body of evidence to suggest that, in fact, Democrats do not enter this election with an advantage. There are a series of trends that may cancel out the Democratic gains with immigrants, singles and the like.

We first began to notice these counterforces in the high-immigrant red states that were supposed to start turning purple by now — places like Texas, Arizona and Georgia. New types of voters have, indeed, flooded into these places, but as Ronald Brownstein points out in The National Journal, since 1992 Democratic presidential nominees have averaged only 44.5 per cent of the vote in Georgia, 43.7 per cent of the vote in Arizona and a pathetic 40.4 per cent of the vote in Texas.

Instead of turning pink or purple, these states have become more thoroughly Republican — from school board elections on up.

Nationally, three big things are happening to at least temporarily hold off the Democratic realignment. First, the aging of the electorate is partially cancelling out the diversifying of the electorate. People tend to get more Republican as they get older, and they vote at higher rates.

And older people are moving to crucial states. In Arizona, Obama won 63 per cent of the young adults but only 29 per cent of the oldsters.

This aging effect could have a big impact in the swing states of the Midwest, like Wisconsin, Ohio, Iowa, Michigan and Pennsylvania.

These states have generally gone Democratic in presidential years, but it’s hard to miss the growing Republican strength at every other level. As Brownstein notes, Republicans have a 42-to-18 advantage in House seats in these states. They control the governorships in all but Pennsylvania. They control both statehouses in all these states save the Iowa Senate.

Second, Democrats continue to lose support among the white working class. In 2008, Barack Obama carried 40 per cent of white voters with a

high school degree. By 2012, that was down to 36 per cent.

As John B. Judis points out in a National Journal piece called, The Emerging Republican Advantage, the tilt of the white working class to the GOP has been even more pronounced in other races. In 2006, Democrats got 44 per cent of the white-working-class vote in House races. By 2014, they got only 34 per cent. In 2009, Republicans had a 20-seat advantage in House districts that were majority white working class. Today, they have a 125seat advantage.

Most surprising, Democrats are now doing worse among college-educated voters. Obama won white college graduates in 2008, but he lost them to Mitt Romney in 2012.

In Colorado, for example, Obama lost 8 points in his support from college-educated voters from 2008 to 2012.

White college grads are drifting away from Democrats down ballot, too. And, most significant, there are signs that Hispanic voters, at least in Sun Belt states, are getting more Republican as they move up the educational ladder.

Surveys and interviews give us some sense of what’s going on. Voters have a lot of economic anxieties. But they also have a template in their heads for what economic dynamism looks like.

That template does not include a big role for government. Polls show that faith in government is near all-time lows. In a Gallup survey, voters listed dysfunctional government as the nation’s No. 1 problem. In fact, American voters’ traditional distrust has morphed and hardened. They used to think it was bloated and ineffective. Now they think it is bloated and ineffective and rigged to help those who need it least.

When many of these voters think of economic dynamism, they think of places like Texas, the top job producer in the nation over the past decade, and, especially, places like Houston, a low-regulation, lowcost-of-living place. In places like Wisconsin, voters in the middle class private sector support candidates who cut state pensions and pass rightto-work laws, so that economic governance can be more Texas-style.

In short, economic philosophy is mitigating the effect of demographic change, at least for a little while longer. The crucial swing voters will be white and Hispanic college graduates in suburban office parks. They are not into redistribution or that Senator Ted Cruz opened his campaign at Liberty University.

The 2016 campaign is starting on level ground.

- The New York Times News Service

Amazon Prime Air delivery drone Amazon, the largest e-commerce company in the US, wants to use autonomous drones to deliver packages to customers but, frustrated at the slow pace of drone legislation by the Federal Aviation Administration, is testing its Prime Air system in countries more favourable to drones Blades Eight 25cm propellers spin at 10,000 revolutions per minute, each providing 1.6kg of lift.

If one fails, drone can remain aloft

cm .4 91 Cargo box Deliveries limited to small 2.25kg container.

86% of Amazon shipments are within this size range

Countries where airspace integration allows for easier drone testing Number of Amazon fulfilment centres, where Prime Air drone bases could be stationed

Clamp grips specially designed box

Cameras Drone will need “eyes” to avoid objects, but this opens up issues of civil liberties and privacy

Power 10,000-mAh lithium ion polymer battery provides 30 minutes of flying time

Global interests

Delivery

Legs: Four sprung metal poles enable gentle landings on ground

Drone flies back to base Range: Customers must live within 16km of fulfilment centre

Canada France North America: 90

Source: Amazon, MWPVL International, wire agencies

On landing, clamp releases cargo box

1461

The armies of two kings, Henry VI and Edward IV, collide at Towton.

1638

A permanent European colony is established in present-day Delaware.

1867

The United States purchases Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million dollars.

1879

British troops of the 90th Light Infantry Regiment repulse a major attack by Zulu tribesmen in northwest Zululand.

UK Europe: 28 Israel

Asia: 34

Australia

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The German government announces a raise in taxes in order to finance the new military budget.

FROM OUR ARCHIVES MAQBOOL TO HEAD OCIPED TEAM TO UK

MUSCAT: Maqbool bin Ali Sultan, minister of commerce and industry, and chairman of the Omani Centre for Investment Promotion and Export Development (Ociped) Board, will start a three-day visit to the UK on Wednesday, heading a delegation comprising Ociped officials and businessmen. The visit is part of the Ociped plans to promote the Sultanate and highlight the investment atmosphere and opportunities available in the country, besides promoting the centre’s projects.

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SU N DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

WORLD

Everything is linked. If all the technical issues are resolved and the questions tied to the sanctions are not, then there is no deal Ali Akbar Salehi, Iran’s nuclear chief

Zarif confident of reaching agreement before deadline wanting nuclear weapons, complies with its commitments, he said.

Asked later after meeting Zarif and separately with top US diplomat John Kerry if progress was being made, Fabius said: “We’re working, we’re working. We’re trying to make progress.”

I think we can in fact make the necessary progress to be able to resolve all the issues and start writing them down in a text that will become the final agreement once

Foreign Minister said

UPBEAT: Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, centre, speaks to the press after meeting with the German and French foreign ministers in separately at the Beau Rivage Palace Hotel, in Lausanne, Switzerland, on Saturday. — Reuters/Brendan Smialowski/Pool

LAUSANNE: Tortuous negotiations aimed at ending fears that Iran will acquire nuclear arms shifted into top gear on Saturday, with the Iranian foreign minister saying he was confident the outstanding hurdles blocking a deal could be overcome.

“We’re moving forward,” Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told reporters after meeting separately with his

German and French counterparts, who he said were both “serious” about reaching an agreement.

“I think we can in fact make the necessary progress to be able to resolve all the issues and start writing them down in a text that will become the final agreement once it’s done,” Zarif said as the clock ticked down to Tuesday’s deadline for the outlines of a deal.

it’s done, the Iranian

France’s top diplomat Laurent Fabius, the most hawkish in the P5+1 group of countries negotiating with Iran since late 2013, was the first European minister to fly in for the crucial talks saying he wanted to reach a “robust deal”.

French insistence France was “insisting” any deal included mechanisms to ensure that the country, which denies

Endgame German Foreign Minister FrankWalter Steinmeier also arrived in Lausanne saying the talks had entered their “endgame” after 12 years, but warning also this would also be the hardest stage.

Since a major diplomatic push to resolve the long-running crisis began in 2013, Kerry and the USeducated Zarif have met multiple times, but have twice missed a deadline to nail down an accord.

The powers want Iran to shrink its nuclear programme in order to make it easy to detect any dash to make a bomb under the guise of its civilian atomic programme.

In return, Iran wants an easing of international sanctions that have excluded the Islamic republic from lucrative oil markets and crippled its economy.

Asked at the start of their talks Saturday whether they were expecting a good day, Kerry replied

wryly that “we’re expecting an evening today,” while Zarif joked “evening, night, midnight, morning.”

The EU’s foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini confirmed she would be arriving in Lausanne later Saturday. China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov will reportedly fly in on Sunday. Britain’s Philip Hammond is on stand-by.

The emerging accord is to be rounded out with complex technical annexes by a June 30 deadline, and Iran’s nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi said he was busy redoing his “technical calculations”.

World powers want to ensure that any deal will result in a year-long “breakout time” -- the amount of time needed for Iran to covertly gather enough fissile material to be able to make a bomb -and experts say there are several routes to getting there.

“Everything is linked. If all the technical issues are resolved and the questions tied to the sanctions are not, then there is no deal,” Salehi said.

Iran wants the sanctions lifted immediately but global powers insist on a gradual phasing out of sanctions in case Iran violates the deal. — AFP

EARTH HOUR OBSERVED

LABOUR REFORMS

Italy rocked by protests ROME: Tens of thousands of workers marched through the centre of Rome on Saturday against Prime Minister Matteo Renzi’s reform of the labour market, headed by a popular union chief who is seen by many as a possible future leader of Italy’s left.

The march was organised by Italy’s main engineering union, the FIOM, whose leader Maurizio Landini is trying to unite the fragmented political left into what he calls a “social coalition” against Renzi.

He accuses the 40-year-old prime minister of moving his Democratic Party (PD) too far towards the political centre, abandoning it traditional roots.

“A new springtime begins today for Italy,” Landini said, surrounded by supporters waving the FIOM’s red flags. “We’re ready to do battle knowing we have more support than the government does.”

Legal problems Under Renzi the PD has become by far Italy’s largest party, helped by divisions on the centre-right which has been weakened by the legal problems of its leader Silvio Berlusconi.

Saturday’s march was attended

by Nichi Vendola, the leader of the small, left-wing SEL party, and several prominent leftist lawmakers from Renzi’s own PD. — Reuters

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W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N .C O M This combination of pictures shows the National Stadium in Beijing, known as the Bird’s Nest, with the lights on (top) and with the lights off (bottom) during the annual Earth Hour event on Saturday. Millions of people were expected to switch off their lights for Earth Hour in a global effort to raise awareness about climate change that was even to be monitored from space. — AFP

ANTI-IS OFFENSIVE

‘Retaking Tikrit needs sacrifices’ BAGHDAD: Retaking the city of Tikrit, where extremists have rigged streets and buildings with explosives, will require “major sacrifices” on the part of Iraqi forces, a senior intelligence officer said Saturday.

Iraqi forces and allied paramilitaries have been fighting to retake the city since March 2, but halted ground operations for more than a week in what officials described as a bid to curb human and material losses before pushing forward again.

“The task of liberating Tikrit requires major sacrifices and street fighting, and our forces are ready for these sacrifices,” the officer told AFP on condition of anonymity, indicating that the pause in operations only deferred the inevitable cost.

The IS group has planted bombs in streets, rigged houses and other buildings with explosives, and built defensive works including berms and tunnels, also booby-trapped, the officer said.

IS spearheaded a sweeping of-

fensive last June that overran much of Iraq’s heartland, and the operation to retake Tikrit is Baghdad’s largest to date against the militants.

A US-led anti-IS coalition began carrying out air strikes in the Tikrit area on Wednesday, a move that increased available firepower in the air but has at least temporarily curbed it on the ground.

Operations suspended Key Iranian-backed militia forces that have done much of the heavy lifting in the drive to push IS back suspended offensive operations after the strikes began, commanders told AFP. The Pentagon conditioned its intervention on an enhanced role for regular government forces and Friday hailed the withdrawal of “those militias who are linked to, infiltrated by, (or) otherwise under the influence of Iran”.

Iran had been the most prominent foreign partner in the operation, but Baghdad eventually requested the US-led strikes after the drive stalled. — AFP

S U N DAY, MAR C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

A1 5

WORLD Nigerians vote despite terror threat Elections scheduled for February 14 were postponed by six weeks, because of the security threat in the northeast, where Boko Haram controlled territory CRIME

Sri Lankan president’s brother dies in axe attack COLOMBO: The youngest brother of Sri Lankan president Maithripala Sirisena died in hospital on Saturday after being attacked by an axe wielding acquaintance two days earlier, police said.

Priyantha Sirisena, 42, suffered severe head injuries in his hometown of Polonnaruwa, 215 kilometres (134 miles) northeast of the capital Colombo, police said. The local businessman’s death came as the President was in China on a state visit.

The President’s office said he had completed his visit and was due to return on Sunday as previously arranged and would be back in the country in time for Monday’s funeral.

“A personal dispute between the president’s brother and a person known to him ended in tragedy,” an official at the president’s office told AFP.”We have no reason to suspect anything other than that.” Sirisena ended a three-day official visit to China on Friday and stayed on to address the Boao Forum on Saturday, officials said. Police said they arrested a man in connection with the attack and an investigation was underway. No further details were given.

The government in a statement said Priyantha, a father of three, was “attacked during an altercation with a friend” on Thursday evening. -AFP GERMANWINGS

‘Psychological illness drugs recovered from co-pilot’s home’ BERLIN: German police have found medical treatments for psychological illness at the home of the co-pilot suspected of deliberately crashing a jet into the French Alps, killing 149 people and himself, a German newspaper said Saturday.

Investigators made the discovery in a search of the home of Andreas Lubitz in the western city of Duesseldorf and seized a number “of medicines for the treatment of psychological illness”, Welt am Sonntag weekly said. “The 27-yearold has been treated by several neurologists and psychiatrists,” it quoted an unidentified highranking investigator as saying, in excerpts released ahead of Sunday’s edition. It said no evidence that Lubitz had a drugs or alcohol dependency problem had been found.

It added that the Germanwings co-pilot was suffering from being overstressed and was severely depressive, according to personal notes found.

Questioned by AFP, French and German investigators declined to confirm or deny the report. German prosecutors believe Lubitz hid an illness from his airline and had been written off sick on the day of the air disaster. On Friday they said searches of his homes netted “medical documents that suggest an existing illness and appropriate medical treatment”, including “torn-up and current sick leave notes, among them one covering the day of the crash”. -AFP

ABUJA/MAIDUGURI, Nigeria: Under the watchful gaze of heavily armed troops, thousands of Nigerians cast their ballots on Saturday in the northeast, braving threats by Boko Haram to bomb polling stations and shoot voters even as the country’s electoral commission said it would extend voting into an extra day in polling stations that had technical issues with biometric card-reading machines.

“In polling units where accreditation was suspended to the following day, in accordance with the existing guidelines, arrangements will be made for voters to vote tomorrow,” commissioner Chris Yimoga told journalists in Abuja.

By the afternoon, suspected gunmen from the extremist militant group had killed 14 voters, including an opposition politician, in three separate assaults on polling stations in the northeast.

In the regional capital Maiduguri, military helicopters hovered above voters waiting in line for an election that has been overshadowed by Boko Haram’s bloody six-year campaign in Africa’s most populous nation.

The election was originally scheduled for February 14 but was postponed at the last minute by six weeks, officially because of the security threat in the northeast, where Boko Haram until recently

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controlled territory the size of Belgium. Since then a concerted military offensive involving neighbouring Chad, Cameroon and Niger has helped recapture most occupied towns.

In Maiduguri, which has suffered dozens of attacks and major suicide bombs in the last two years, voters were determined to make their voice heard.

“I’m not afraid of violence.

I don’t even expect any problem,” said 27-year-old student Kaulala Abbas.”I’ve decided like most people to effect a change in government and this can only be done through my vote.”

The militants’ leader, Abubakar Shekau, has threatened to kill Nigerians who vote.

The security forces, who have been criticised along with President Goodluck Jonathan for doing too little to counter Boko Haram, had pulled out the stops to guarantee public safety.

“I don’t expect any crisis. There is heavy presence of security officials - police, army, civil defence corps and state security services,”

said civil servant Ahmed Musa.

Boko Haram has displaced an estimated 1.5 million people, but many were able to cast their ballots in voting stations set up specially in internal refugee camps.

“We have suffered enough, fled our homes after many attacks,” said Roda Umar, a housewife from Gwoza, a Boko Haram stronghold that was only recaptured by the military this week.

For Umar -- as with many in the northeast -- the pain and suffering of recent years translates into direct support for opposition leader Muhammadu Buhari, head of a 1980s military junta who is seen as tough on crime and security. -Reuters

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WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM SUNDAY, MAR CH 29, 2015

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Oman posts OMR361m deficit in 2014 on falling crude price AT A GLANCE A growth in public expenditure to fund

Oman government had early last year, said that the budget deficit would be covered by way of domestic borrowing, surplus from the previous budget and transfer from general reserves

The average price of Oman Crude marginally fell to $103.23 per barrel in 2014, from $105.51 a barrel in the previous year.

The Sultanate’s budget revenue for 2014 was calculated on an assumed crude oil price of $85 per barrel

infrastructure projects coupled with a marginal fall in oil prices caused the deficit, against a surplus in the previous year

A. E. JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman government posted a budget deficit of OMR360.8 million in 2014, against a surplus of OMR267.4 million in the previous year. The country has posted a budget deficit after several years, thanks to high crude oil prices for almost a decade.

A growth in public expenditure to fund infrastructure projects coupled with a marginal fall in

crude prices in the international markets caused the deficit, which is against an early budget deficit projection of OMR1.8 billion.

The Oman government had early last year, said that the budget deficit would be covered by way of domestic borrowing, surplus from the previous budget and transfer from general reserves.

The average price of Oman Crude marginally fell to $103.23 per barrel in 2014, from $105.51 a barrel in the previous year, accord-

ing to the latest monthly bulletin released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information.

However, Oman’s budget revenue for 2014 was calculated on an assumed oil price of $85 per barrel.

The country’s total revenue came down from OMR14.22 billion to OMR13.65 billion, while total public expenditure, including actual expenditures under settlement, stood higher at OMR14.02

billion last year against OMR13.95 billion in 2013.

Net oil revenue also came down marginally to OMR10.20 billion in 2014 from OMR10.74 billion in the previous year, while natural gas

revenue was more or less same at OMR1.49 billion.

The monthly report said that in January 2015 alone, the country has achieved a surplus of OMR201.3 million, which is against OMR269.7 million-surplus for the same month in 2014.

However, total government revenue in January 2015 was down by 21.6 per cent at OMR763.5 million, mainly on account of a 26.1 per cent fall in oil revenue at OMR612.7 million.

The monthly report said that the Sultanate produced 344.37 million barrels of crude oil in 2014 (equivalent to 943,500 barrels per day), against 343.81 million barrels in 2013.

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SU N DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

MARKET ENERGY

Chevron abandons Australian shale gas field; to divest stake SYDNEY: Chevron abandoned Australian shale exploration and said it will sell its 50 per cent stake in that nation’s largest oil refiner.

Chevron notified Beach Energy, its partner in the central Australian shale project, that “the opportunity does not align strategically” with the United States explorer’s portfolio, according to a statement on Friday from Beach. Selling its half of refiner Caltex Australia is expected to yield about A$4.7 billion ($3.7 billion).

Chevron announced plans earlier this month to shed $15 billion in oil and natural gas assets by the end of 2017 and reduce spending on new projects for the next two

years. Chairman and chief executive officer John Watson is raising cash and curbing expenditures after the plunge in global oil prices dented profits and made some fields less attractive to drill.

“They are perhaps looking to increase their margins and get away from businesses that offer lowerend margins,” said David Lennox, a resource analyst at Fat Prophets in Sydney. “They are getting knocked around a bit,” by oil prices.

Chevron entered Australian shale two years ago when it pledged to invest $349 million in Beach’s Nappamerri Trough gas project. Beach said on Friday that it will seek other partners and con-

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tinue studies at the site through June 2016. Icon Energy is also a partner in the venture.

Fuel-making plants Chevron has been trimming its refining portfolio for the past decade to focus on higher-margin investments such as oil drilling. The company sold about $14 billion in refineries, filling stations and related assets between 2004 and the end of last year.

Chevron is selling its shares in Caltex Australia at A$35 apiece, a 7.6 per cent discount to Friday’s close, people said.

Chevron is expects to sell shares in Caltex. - Bloomberg News

Telecom sector achieves robust growth in Oman

providers

well as Omani-Qatari Telecommunication Company (Ooredoo) grew to OMR153.4 million from OMR148.3 million in 2013.

The consolidated revenue of both operators rose to OMR708.3 million from OMR665.5 million in 2013. The total assets of both companies by the end of December 2014 stood at OMR1,220 million compared to OMR1,096 million for the same period of 2013.

The total capitals of both companies stood at OMR140.1 million.

MUSCAT: Telecommunication companies in Oman managed to increase their revenue and profit, thanks to a growth in demand for broadband and data services.

The revenue from local and international calls witnessed a decline due to competition by the content service providers, which allow their consumers to make voice, video calls and messages free of charge.

In 2014, profit of Oman Telecommunications (Omantel), as

Broadband service The telecommunications sector in the Sultanate is witnessing great changes in line with world developments.

Both companies said that broadband services have a very good potential for growth.

While Omantel pointed out that the growth of content providers contributed to weakening the market value of the communication services.

The fixed broadband grew by 30.4 per cent in 2014. The mobile broadband also grew by 32.1 per

Revenue from local and international calls declined due to competition from the content service

cent compared to 15.4 per cent for the data services. Omantel also pointed out that the number of fixed broadband subscribers has recorded the biggest-ever growth achieved by the company.

Ooredoo said that it has launched its new brand identity last year and posted 12.1 per cent growth rate, thanks to the increase in the revenues of the mobile and fixed data services and increase in revenues from the mobile and fixed data services and international calls as well.

In a bid to enhance competition and increase revenues, Ooredoo has implemented a project to enhance the strength of its network.

The project opened horizons for many new services and products that help the company meeting the needs and requirements of its customers. – ONA

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SEEKING SUPPORT

China’s investment offer to Asian nations BEIJING: President Xi Jinping reached out to China’s neighbours, saying his country will offer other Asian nations trade and investment opportunities as it seeks support for two regional initiatives that it is championing.

The $40 billion Silk Road Economic Belt has attracted interest from over 60 countries and international organisations, and the founding of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank is proceeding smoothly, Xi said in a speech at the Boao Forum for Asia on China’s southern Hainan Island.

Xi’s address highlighted the two initiatives China has presented in recent months as it seeks new ways to sustain growth and expand its economic influence globally. He pledged to boost coordination in Asia and said bigger countries must take on more responsibility in world affairs.

“China’s economy shouldn’t be viewed only by its growth rate,” Xi said. “China’s economy entering the new normal will continue

to provide countries including Asian nations more markets, growth, investment and cooperation opportunities.”

The ‘new normal’ phrase adopted by Xi and other Chinese leaders refers to their push for growth driven by domestic consumption rather than exports and infrastructure. The government targets growth of about 7 per cent this year, down from last year’s 7.4 per cent.

Bond sales The Chinese government will support yuan-denominated bond sales in China by countries, companies and financial institutions along the Silk Road belt, the official Xinhua News Agency reported, citing government agencies.

China will also urge domestic financial institutions and companies to sell bonds overseas and spend the proceeds in countries in the region, as well as help expand currency swaps and settlements. - Bloomberg News BRIEFS

Conference on Social Responsibility MUSCAT: Social Responsibility Conference, organised by the Arab Women Media, will be held at the College of Tourism on April 29. The conference aims at shedding light on the status of the Omani private companies and investments in taking care of social responsibility and cement a culture of responsibility in the private sector enterprises in light of the growing role of the Omani non-government organisations (NGO) and the growth of the Omani private sector.

Oman’s trade team to leave for Ethiopia MUSCAT: Dr Salim bin Nasser Al Ismaili, chairman of Ithraa, will head to the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, leading a 20-member Omani business delegation, including representatives of 20 Omani companies that have the ability to export, on Tuesday. The visit aims to explore more business opportunities, organise bilateral meetings between Omani exporters and Ethiopian importers, and new marketing outlets in the Ethiopian market, in particular and the African markets in general. - ONA

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MARKET OMR100m water plant in Qurayyat to be ready in 2017 The plant will produce 44 million gallons per day for which an agreement has been signed by a consortium led by Singapore’s Hyflux

Times News Service MUSCAT: An agreement to build the OMR100-million independent water project in Qurayyat was signed between Oman Power and Water Procurement Company (OPWP) and a consortium led

by Singapore’s Hyflux here on Wednesday.

The plant, which will produce 200,000 cubic metres of water per day, or 44 million gallons per day, is expected to begin commercial operations in May 2017.

The agreement will give OPWP the right to purchase for 20 years water produced through reverse osmosis desalination, one of the best existing technologies in desalination. “This project is distinguishable because it is the

first independent water desalination project to be floated after the amendment of the Sector Law, which regulates independent water projects by the Authority for Electricity Regulation. The tendering of the project was in accordance with the Internal Tender Committee procedures after amending the Tender Law which was carried out in a short period and with complete transparency,” said Eng Ahmed Al Jahdhami, CEO of OPWP. This project is part of a series of desalination water projects planned by OPWP to keep up with the demand for water in the Sultanate, which increases at an annual rate of about 6 per cent.

Wong Lup Wai, chairman of Qurayyat Desalination Company, said that the Qurayyat desalination plant’s capacity is equivalent to approximately 17 per cent of Oman’s peak water demand.

“The increased desalination capacity will contribute towards the resilience and reliability of Oman’s water supply and help

to meet the long-term demand.

Hyflux will design, build, own and operate the plant and deliver water to OPWP for a period of 20 years,” added Wong Lup Wai. Hyflux company would seek to increase knowledge in water management and the technical base of the people of Oman as they embark on the construction, operations and maintenance phases of the plant. “We will share the extensive experience and expertise we have gained through our large-scale desalination projects worldwide, and invest in training local Omani staff at our plants in Singapore,” he said.

“A Request for Qualification was floated in September 2013 by the company, which generated tremendous interest from different companies and 12 consortiums made their pre-qualification submissions. The firm evaluated the submissions and seven companies qualified for the next stage of RfP,” added Eng Naif bin Ali Al Abri, the project manager of Qurayyat project.

WAT E R D E S A L I NAT I O N

Oman plans water projects in Salalah and Sharqiya A. E. JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman government is planning to develop two independent water desalination projects, one each in Salalah and Sharqiya region, which is part of a larger plan to attract OMR700 million worth of private investment for doubling the country’s total water capacity in the next five years.

“It (Salalah water project) will be around 18-20 million gallons per day capacity. We are also considering another plant in Sharquiya region,” said Eng Ahmed Al

Jahdhami, chief executive officer of Oman Power and Water Procurement Company (OPWP).

This is in addition to a plan for expanding the capacity of existing Sur water project. He was talking to the media on the sidelines of signing an agreement for developing the Qurayyat independent water project.

Oman plans to attract OMR700 million worth of investments for doubling the country’s total desalination water capacity in the next five years.

Eng Al Jahdhami said that his company plans to double the to-

tal capacity of desalinated water in Oman from 657,000 cubic metres per day now to 1,300,000 cubic metres per day by 2020 with an estimated investment of around OMR700 million from the private sector during the period. These projects are planned in different parts of the country and may include one large project each planned in Barka and Sohar. The OPWP, in coordination with PAEW, is currently building desalination projects in Al Ghubrah, Barka and Sur. The Qurayyat project will be connected with the national grid.

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SU N DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

MARKET NAT I O NA L C O M P E T I T I O N

Imagine Cup roadshow tours key educational institutions Times News Service MUSCAT: A roadshow for Imagine Cup 2015 visited the Higher College of Technology, Modern College of Business and Science and Sultan Qaboos University.

More than 700 students were targeted in the seminars and presentations were delivered by the Imagine Cup team while over 100 registrations were received as Microsoft and its partners on Saturday said that they have concluded the roadshow of the 2015 Imagine Cup national competition being held in partnership with Omantel and Information Technology Authority (ITA).

The Microsoft Imagine Cup,

a cornerstone of the Microsoft YouthSpark initiative, is the world’s premier student technology programme and competition targeting students between the ages of 16 and 24 from all academic backgrounds.

“We are thrilled to host a new season of the Imagine Cup 2015 for our students in the Sultanate,” said Sheikh Saif Hilal Al Hosni, business development manager for Microsoft Oman.

“Through the Imagine Cup, we aim to inspire student developers to create innovative solutions that change the way we live, work and play while also growing the skills they need to pursue a future in technology. We encourage all

tion Technology Authority (ITA).

In his comments, Talal Said Al Mamari, chief executive officer of Omantel reiterated their commitment to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship.

students from the different universities in Oman to register, form teams, dream big and work hard to create fantastic new technology projects,” he said.

“We are happy to take part in a new season of the Imagine Cup and are grateful to Microsoft for

hosting this global initiative that provides our students the opportunity to learn through the competition, help them drive new skill development and inspire collaboration and teambuilding,” said Dr Salim Sultan Al Ruzaiqi, chief executive officer of the Informa-

Omani talent “Through the years, the Imagine Cup had become a national quest for Omani talent, and our youth has succeeded in surprising us and making us proud year after year. We are pleased to renew our support to the Microsoft Imagine Cup for the 2015 competition as it falls in line with our aim to develop young talent and encourage them build on their ICT skills,” he said.

The three national winners will

join more than 30 teams from around the Arab world at the Imagine Cup Pan-Arab semi-finals to be held in Manama, Bahrain, in late May 2015. While the semifinals recognises Microsoft’s commitment to empowering young entrepreneurs in the region, it also answers to the growing participation of contestants from around the Arab world and encourages them to compete for an opportunity to represent the Arab nation at the worldwide finals taking place in Seattle this summer.

The Imagine Cup is a cornerstone of the Microsoft YouthSpark initiative, and its commitment to create opportunities for 300 million youths by 2015.

Demand for credit on upswing in January Quasi-money (rial Omani savings and time deposits, certificates of deposits issued by commercial banks, margin deposits and foreign currency denominated deposits) witnessed a growth of 11.3 per cent during the period. Broad money supply (M2) stood at OMR13,964.2 million by the end of January 2015, up from OMR12,350.7 million a year ago, registering an increase of 13.1 per cent during the period.

Of the total assets, credit disbursement accounted for 67 per cent and increased by 11.1 per cent by the end of January, 2015 to OMR16.9 billion

MUSCAT: Total assets of commercial banks in Oman grew by 11.8 per cent to OMR25.3 billion in January 2015 from OMR22.7 billion a year ago. Of the total assets, credit disbursement accounted for 67 per cent and increased by 11.1 per cent by the end of January 2015 to OMR16.9 billion.

Credit to the private sector increased by 11 per cent during the period to reach OMR14.7 billion by end-January 2015, according to a bulletin released by the Central Bank of Oman.

Of the total credit to the private sector in January, the share of the non-financial corporate sector stood at 47.7 per cent, closely followed by the household sector (mainly under personal loans) at 45.6 per cent, financial corporations at 4.8 per cent and other sectors the remaining 1.9 per cent.

Commercial banks’ overall investments in securities increased by 10.6 per cent to OMR3.05 billion as at the end of January 2015 from OMR2.7 billion a year ago. Of total investments, CBO’s certificates of deposits stood at OMR1.4 billion while investment in Government development bonds FOURTH EDITION

Consumer products expo SOHAR: Fourth Modern Family Consumer Exhibition 2015, organised by the Vision Exhibitions and Conferences, was scheduled to open on Saturday.

Mohammed Abdul Hameed Khidr, Project Manager of Projects at the Vision Exhibitions and Conferences said that the seven-day exhibition is an ideal opportunity for exhibitors to display their consumer products, such as perfumes, shoes, games, cosmetics, gifts and home accessories.

The third edition attracted more than 10,000 visitors. - ONA

ON THE RISE: Commercial banks’ overall investments in securi-

ties increased by 10.6 per cent to OMR3.05 billion by the end of January, 2015 from OMR2.7 billion a year ago. – Times file

(GDBs) stood at OMR564 million as at the end of January 2015.

Commercial banks’ investments in foreign securities increased by 37.8 per cent to OMR737.6 million in January 2015.

Deposit growth Aggregate deposits held with commercial banks registered a significant increase of 10.5 per cent to OMR17.4 billion in January 2015 from OMR15.8 billion a year ago. Government deposits with commercial banks increased by 15.1 per cent to OMR5 billion.

Deposits of public enterprises declined by 7.3 per cent to OMR0.9 billion during the same period.

Private sector deposits, which constituted 65 per cent of total deposits with commercial banks, increased by 11.1 per cent to OMR11.3 billion in January 2015 from OMR10.2 billion a year ago.

In terms of sector contribution, the share of households was 48.4 per cent of the total private sector deposit base, followed by nonfinancial corporations at 29.3 per cent, financial corporations at 20.1 per cent and other sectors at 2.2 per cent. Islamic banking entities

provided financing to the extent of OMR1,110.9 million as at the end of January 2015 when compared to OMR467.6 million a year ago.

Total deposits held with Islamic banks and windows also registered a significant increase to OMR681.4 million in January 2015 from OMR181.5 million by the end of January 2014.

The combined assets of Islamic banks and windows amounted to OMR1,355.7 million by the end of January 2015, which constituted about 5 per cent of the banking system assets.

Focus on liquidity Monetary management during the year continued to be faced with abundance of bank liquidity and the primary focus of the central bank was to ensure appropriate levels of liquidity in the banking system, so as to avoid internal and external imbalance.

Narrow money supply (M1), when measured on year-on-year basis, grew sharply by 16.4 per cent driven both by the increase in demand deposits by 17.5 per cent, as well as increase in currency with the public by 12.9 per cent.

Interest rate In respect of domestic interest rate structure of commercial banks, both deposit and lending rates softened during this period.

CBO’s policy interest rate for absorption of surplus liquidity in the form of CBO’s certificates of deposits with 28 days’ maturity was 0.13 per cent in January 2015 same as in January 2014.

CBO’s repo rate remained unchanged at 1 per cent since March 2012. The overnight rial domestic inter-bank lending rate marginally declined from 0.135 per cent in January 2014 to 0.130 per cent in January 2015.

The weighted average interest rate on rial deposits declined from 1.141 per cent in January 2014 to 0.953 per cent in January 2015 while the weighted average rial lending rate declined from 5.397 per cent to 5.062 per cent during the same period.

Annual inflation rate measured by movement in the average CPI for the Sultanate stood at 0.4 per cent in January 2015 over January 2014. – ONA

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ACQUISITION

Intel in talks to buy chipmaker Altera NEW YORK: Intel is in talks to acquire Altera, people with knowledge of the matter said, as the largest chipmaker searches for growth beyond a moribund personal-computer market.

The people asked not to be identified discussing private information. The Wall Street Journal reported earlier on the discussions. Altera shares jumped 28 percent to $44.39 at the close in New York, giving the company a valuation of about $13.4 billion.

Intel rose 6.4 percent to $32.

Chuck Mulloy, a spokesman for Santa Clara, California-based Intel, and Sue Martenson, a spokeswoman for San Jose, Californiabased Altera, ddid not comment.

Intel is on the hunt for growth as it faces a slowdown in the market for PCs that forced a $1 billion cut in its first- quarter sales forecast earlier this month. Sales in the worldwide PC market will shrink 4.9 percent this year, IDC said, as consumers around the world spend more on mobile devices typically based on processors using designs from Intel rivals such as Qualcomm Inc. That decline comes on top of heavy losses in Intel’s mobile division. The group reported an operating loss of $4.21 billion for 2014.

A bright spot for Intel is the data-center group, where profits soared to $7.28 billion on sales of

move for Intel, it would be a significant change in strategy,” she said. “They need diversification beyond the PC market. Data center has been a tremendous source of strength. Mobile has been a tremendous financial drain.”

Intel and Altera announced a manufacturing partnership in February 2013, agreeing that Altera chips would be made in Intel’s cutting-edge plants. That deal was extended in March last year when the companies agreed to do more detailed work together on chip packaging and design. $14.4 billion in 2014. The company benefited from a boom in the amount of data being generated and held in computing centers around the world.

Altera’s chips Altera makes a broad range of lowpower programmable semiconductors, which are used in small embedded devices and computer servers for big data centres.

In buying Altera, Intel could expand into markets for automotive, industrial and communication applications, while cementing its lead in data centers, said Betsy Van Hees, an analyst at Wedbush Securities Inc. Hees has a neutral rating on the stock.

“This would be a significant

Data centres An acquisition of Altera would help Intel make further inroads into corporate data centers and reduce its dependence on a PC market pressured by the rise of mobile computing, according to Stacy Rasgon, an analyst at Sanford C. Bernstein who has the equivalent of a sell rating on Intel’s stock.

“It makes sense that they would potentially be looking for other opportunities to grow the other part of the business,” Rasgon said.

“There are synergies, say, in Intel’s data-center business.” Intel could use Altera’s technology to create new processors that pair its traditional products with lowpower communications chips, wrote Jefferies. - Bloomberg News

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ROUND-UP

PDO celebrates HM’s return to homeland The celebrations were broadcast live across the country to all PDO operations, ensuring every member of the PDO family was part of the event that initiated a series of local festivities in the interior regions

MUSCAT: Thousands of Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) team members gathered on Thursday to welcome His Majesty’s return to his homeland in front of their coastal headquarters in Bait Mina Al Fahal, Muscat.

The celebrations were broadcast live across the country to all SPECIAL OCCASION

PDO operations, ensuring every member of the PDO family was part of the event that initiated a series of local festivities in the interior, says a press release.

The celebration took off with a joyous recital of Oman’s national anthem and staff raising flags, hands and voices chanting ‘His Majesty Sultan Qaboos the Great lives’. A warm welcome and a moving speech by Raoul Restucci, Managing Director of PDO, followed in which he emphasised,

“I have no words that can express or give justice to the personal and collective heartfelt joy and thanks for His Majesty’s return to the Sultanate and his beloved nation. Like lost children, we are now reunited with our leader.”

“We are truly thankful to the Almighty for His Majesty’s return to guide and inspire us.” Praising His Majesty’s wisdom, vision, peaceful and humble leadership he said, “His Majesty has and continues to capture the love and admiration

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from all in Oman and beyond and His Majesty is a source for good, for opportunity and reassurance, for peace, progress and prosperity. This is a truly joyous occasion.

I know I speak on behalf of everyone in PDO, Omanis and expats alike, in wishing His Majesty great health and longevity, great joy and continued wisdom in leading this country as a remarkable world leader and role model of our generation. The renaissance of this country continues with renewed strength, vigour and commitment and all of us in PDO renew our promise to serve His Majesty and Oman to the best of our abilities.”

Team members participated in the celebrations by sharing poetry they wrote, in both Arabic and English, followed by a recital of prayers to which all the companies employees participated in. The get together came to a beautiful finale as a traditional Omani Razha band led the management team and staff, who were adorned with patriotic colours, symbols and His Majesty’s image in a march around Bait Mina Al Fahal. The crowd was thrilled with the activity and the band ended with a typical native call out “Azzey” praising His Majesty and wishing him a healthy, prosperous life.

LUXURY DRIVE

H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

Art of Living's Yoga Festival concludes MUSCAT: Art of Living (AOL), supported by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Sports Affairs, conducted a Yoga Festival successfully on March 21 at Marah Land, Qurum.

Around 1,200 people, both Omanis and expats evinced great interest in understanding not only how the discipline of Yoga could have a salutary effect on their body and mind, but also how it could help combat lifestyle diseases like diabetes, obesity and hypertension, which are threatening to affect alarmingly large numbers of the country’s residents. The Yoga Fest marked the beginning of a campaign called Yogathon which would seek to inculcate simple yoga in people’s daily routines to help them improve their health, says a press release.

Khalid Al Amri, who heads the Education Department at the DGHS, Ministry of Health, at-

tended the programme to endorse the ministry’s ongoing support of the discipline and sport of Yoga being propagated as a lifestyle addition, to positively impact the general health of the citizens, in a non -intrusive manner.

The programme had demonstrations of various asanas (postures) and mudras (hand gestures) which would help in activating the endocrine, cardiovascular, and metabolic systems to help fight against diabetes, hypertension and obesity disorders.

For example, some of the postures shown for diabetics were meant to specifically energise the pancreas, the organ responsible for insulin production which impacts the sugar levels in the blood. Art of Living’s yoga experts Hassan and Asma explained the techniques and benefits of these postures in both English and Arabic.

E L E C T R I C I T Y C O M PA N Y

Thoughtful engineering provides Majan gets new HR quiet interior to Lincoln vehicles and administration

Celebration held at PSM to mark HM’s return MUSCAT: A cake cutting ceremony was held at Pakistan School Muscat recently by the school management to celebrate the return of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to his homeland after his successful treatment in Germany.

The school hall was decorated with Omani flags and HM’s portraits. The ceremony started with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Qari Muhammad Rahim followed by a warm welcome address by the Principal PSM, Khalid Jadoon.

Senior Principal Ata ullah Niazi and the Chairman BOD Adnan Shahzad also expressed their heartfelt sentiments on behalf of all the staff. Salim Khalfan (Director Public Relations) spoke on behalf of all the Omani staff. He thanked all Pakistani brothers and management of Pakistan schools for sharing the joy with Omani brothers.

All the students and staff of Pakistan School Muscat offered a collective prayer for the health of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos.

They wished him a long life and paid him a tribute for his unforgettable services to his nation and expatriates. They expressed their heartfelt gratitude for his selfless concern for all the residents of the Sultanate of Oman.

MUSCAT: In today’s increasingly hectic world, the privilege of silence is becoming rarer rather than common. Providing an oasis of quiet is something luxury customers increasingly crave.

In this regard to attract a new luxury client, Lincoln is elevating all aspects of the driving experience, including an intense focus on providing a quiet interior.

A combination of engineering, manufacturing and design related actions are being implemented to provide a calm, comfortable environment and a better customer experience, says a press release.

Even before the engine is started, the interior of a vehicle can be designed to provide a refuge from a hectic world. Reducing “visual noise” begins with a strong emphasis on horizontal lines and thoughtful interaction between shapes. Shapes work together so that what occupants see conveys a sense of quiet – forms and lines are arranged so they are smooth and flowing.

senior manager

Rich and premium materials are comfortable, of course, but also exude a certain confidence.

That confidence can breed a sense of calm, so authentic materials, such as natural woods and metals, combined with high grades of leather, complete the environment. Engineering and design elements that are used to create a quiet environment for customers include Sound-absorbing interior trim panels to capture unwanted sound within the cabin.

Acoustic-laminate windshield and front side glass help reduce highway-speed noise levels.

Acoustic and aero-designed mirrors are optimised to decrease

cabin noise levels by controlling airflow across the side. Noisereducing material in the pillars, carpet and trim panels, as well as enhanced sealing below the doors dampens interior noise levels. “Do Not Disturb” feature on SYNC blocks incoming phone calls or text messages.

Calls are diverted and text messages are saved on the device for later viewing; Active noise control uses microphones and speakers to analyse and capture sounds, generating inverted sound waves to cancel out unwanted noise.

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

TO ADVERTISE Call: 24726666

MUSCAT: Majan Electricity Company – Part of Nama Group has announced that it has recently appointed Mohammed Rashid Al Mamari as their new senior manager of Human Resources and Administration department.

With over 15 years of experience in HR, Mr. Mohammed has had a wide range of experience in managing human resources in large corporations and multinational firms as well as 8 years of previous experience in the electricity sector in the Sultanate of Oman.

Abdullah Al Nofli, acting CEO of Majan Electricity Company, says: “We recognise that people are at the core of our business and continuing to train and develop the best talent is crucial to our future success. We now have 400 people in our workforce, spread across the regions of the Sultanate, it is vital that each and every one of our colleagues feels that they are part of Majan Electricity and know that we are committed to helping them to progress their career” Saunders adds: “Over the last few years, we have developed a platform of training and development initiatives to provide structured career/personal development for all groups of colleagues.

“This will be a great challenge; there have been many transformational changes in electricity sector that provide many opportunities for development. It is essential that we take these opportunities to develop the talents of our people while building on the foundation that breeds excellence” said Mohammed Rashid Al Mamari.

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SUN DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

ROUND-UP

Largest Big Show edition set to begin with focus on innovation

About 300 local and international companies from 15 countries will be offering a full range of state-of-the-art building materials, construction equipment, ceramics and bathroom fittings, wood machinery, interior furnishings and other products at the 12th international edition

MUSCAT: The Big Show 2015 (Builders International Gathering), the largest construction and interior design show in Oman, will get underway tomorrow, against a backdrop of huge investments in the country’s infrastructure and construction sector as the government surges ahead with largescale projects focusing on the development of industrial capacity and competitiveness.

For four days, the Oman International Exhibition Centre will be the epicentre of the latest products, services and technologies in the building industry during The BIG Show, which is held under the patronage of Oman’s Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources, says a press release.

About 300 local and international companies from 15 countries will be offering a full range of state-of-the-art building materials, construction equipment, ceramics and bathroom fittings, wood machinery, interior furnishings and other products at the 12th international edition.

Over 1,000 innovative products from various segments will be showcased by companies from Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Malta, Iran, Portugal, China, India, Kuwait, France, Qatar, Spain, Lebanon, Pakistan, Italy, the United States, Bulgaria, Turkey, Egypt, Malaysia, Austria and Germany.

Organised by Omanexpo, the largest ever edition of The BIG Show will introduce new features,

which include the launch of some top-of-the-line products for the first time in Oman and new segments dedicated to pool and spa and water technologies.

The major highlight of the show is the first-time participation of the China pavilion with nearly 25 companies, set up along with seven other country pavilions from Italy, Germany, Turkey, Iran, India and Austria.

The BIG Show 2015 offers a great opportunity for attendees to network and make valuable connections with colleagues, competitors and solution providers alike and create leads in the local and international market.

It is an excellent platform for distributors, suppliers and manufacturers to discuss investment and cooperation opportunities to contribute to key infrastructure projects in Oman such as the Duqm development project, Oman international railway project, Muscat and Salalah airport projects as well as the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, and the Batinah Expressway.

The show caters to a wide and diverse range of audience, including architects, contractors, consultants, end-users and buyers, engineers, homeowners, importers and distributors, interior designers, manufacturers, project managers, property developers, property managers, property owners, purchasing managers, real estate agents, retailers and suppliers and site managers.

The gold sponsors of The Big Show 2015 are Assarain Concrete

Products and Trading, PLAXIT, Jotun, and Al Nasr. The silver sponsors are Nawa International, Al Hooqani International Group, and Abadis International. Blue Star is the AC Climate Control Partner. Other sponsors are National Paints, Arkan Majan, Pasha Projects, and Pachin Paints.

Latest product launch The exhibition will feature some of the latest products that will be launched in Oman for the first time by companies from Germany, China, Denmark and the UK. According to Fehmi Ouaja, exhibition manager of The BIG Show Oman, more than 13,000 local and international visitors participated

in the 2014 edition of the exhibit, a record-breaking event for Omanexpo with a 20 per cent increase in exhibitor participation.

This year’s edition is expected to draw a larger number of visitors as more products and product segments have been added to the exhibition’s portfolio.

The product pavilions will stage a full and diverse array of products such as air-conditioning systems, bathroom fittings, building materials, ceramics and tiles, concrete and cement products, construction vehicles, curtains and beddings, decorative panels, doors and windows, electrical products, electronic equipment, fibreglass products, flooring materials, hardware

products, heavy equipment, home décor and furnishings, kitchen products and equipment, lighting fixtures, marble and stone products, maintenance supplies, paint products, pipes and plumbing fixtures, PVC building materials, refrigeration equipment, sanitary ware, security systems, steel and metal products, wall panels and partitions, wood products and wood machinery.

The event is supported by Advantage Austria, AHK-German Industry and Commerce (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and the UAE), AUMA - Association of the German Trade Fair Industry, Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology, and Turkey’s Minis-

try of Economy. Agility is the Official Logistics Partner.

Construction Week is the Official Construction Trade Magazine, Ventures Onsite is the construction information provider, OER Dossier is the official local trade publication, and Times of Oman and Al Shabiba are the official newspapers.

Media partners are Oman Projects, Middle East Plant and Equipment, Woodworking, Steel Structures and Metal Buildings, Strategise.in, Omanproductfinder. com, India Export News, NA Magazine, Spain, and Tiles of India.

The exhibition hours are from 11am to 7pm on March 30 and 4pm to 10pm from March 31 to April 2.

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ROUND-UP

LIPOSKILL

Bahwan Healthcare launches revolutionary biological product TARIQ AL HAREMI tariqh@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Liposkill, a revolutionary biological wrinkle-filling, antiaging, body shaping and wound healing product, was launched by Bahwan Healthcare Centre here.

The Bioscience Clinic product, unlike Botox, uses the patient’s own FAT tissue derived from

the abdomen or thighs of which Adipose Derived Cells (ADC) are extracted in their laboratory in Dubai, UAE. After 12 days, the ADC would have expanded and is then injected into the superficial dermis with a special microscopic needle, for anti-aging effect.

Chief Executive Officer of Bioscience Clinic, Dr. Guiseppe Mucci said, “It uses 100 per cent

Renowned poets make Mushairah memorable Listening to legendary Iftikhar Arif at his very best was no less than a treat for a discerning audience comprising a sizeable gathering of Pakistanis, Indians and Omanis

Times News Service MUSCAT: The 10th Annual Naatia Mushairah proved to be a smashing hit as renowned Urdu poets from Pakistan and India recited their choicest poetry to pay glowing tributes to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Listening to legendary Iftikhar Arif at his very best was no less than a treat for a discerning audience comprising a sizeable gathering of Pakistanis, Indians and Omanis. Having arrived straight from Saudi Arabia where he had presided over a high profile IndoPak Mushairah, the Pakistani legend stole the show with his mesmerising poetry and breathtaking delivery.

So powerful was his perfor-

mance that he got a standing ovation, as soon as he left the pulpit, from one and all, including Ayaz Hussain, Ambassador of Pakistan, who was the chief guest. Mian Mohammed Munir, managing director of Ittfaq Travel and Tourism, was the guest of honour at the Mushairah that was held recently at Crystal Suites in Wadi Kabir.

Earlier, Manzar Bhopali of India proved once again why he is such a popular poet and a token of success for every Mushairah he participates in. Manzar, who has participated in many Mushairahs in Muscat, has a lot of fans in the Omani capital.

Making a powerful start with a few lovely couplets in his melodious voice, Manzar too held nothing back taking the poetry

evening to a new level. His ‘naats’ clearly impressed the audience who seemed to equally enjoy the sweetness of his voice and amazing control.

Dr Akhter Hashmi is no stranger to the Urdu-loving audience of Muscat and once again left a huge impression on his listeners. With his soulful poetry and lovely delivery he gave the Mushairah a headstart from where it only got better and better.

One of the highlights of the Naatia Mushairah was high class compering by Shakeel Bukhari, who is known to add life to any event with his amazing diction and its magical use.

Local poets Azra Aleem, Qamar Riaz and Murawwat Ahmad paid lovely tributes to the Prophet

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Golden Tulip Nizwa supports Al Noor MUSCAT: Golden Tulip Nizwa Hotel reaffirmed its commitment to the community by donating Braille laptops for the students of Al Noor Association for the Blind as part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility Programme for the year 2015.

The initiative is in line with Golden Tulip Nizwa Hotel’s overall objective of contributing to the social development within Al Dakhiliyah region. Golden Tulip Nizwa always strive to bring in meaningful difference in the lives of less privileged community, says a press release.

The Braille laptops donation move comes as part of hotel’s ongoing CSR strategy that calls for giving back to the community. It aims to provide better skills to the blind students helping them become self reliant.

The Braille laptops were handed over by Sandeep Jaitly, General Manager of Golden Tulip Nizwa Hotel to Mohamed Adim Salim Al Subeihi, In-charge of Al Noor Association for the Blind (Al Dakhiliyah branch) in a simple ceremony attended by some

of the management representatives of Golden Tulip Hotel. This event was coordinated by Neeti Raj Sharma (Talent Development Manager) and Ali Al Hadidi (HR & Administration Manager).

After handing over the Braille laptops, Sandeep commented: “As part of our ongoing corporate social responsibility programme, we constantly seek to provide a helping hand to various segments of the local community. Golden Tulip Nizwa remains committed to supporting the community,

and we hope the Braille laptops will help facilitate and boost the Al Noor Association’s ongoing efforts towards the society.

Mohamed Adim Salim Al Subeihi, expressing his gratitude said, “We are extremely thankful to Golden Tulip Nizwa hotel for their generous contribution towards the society.”

He also appreciated Golden Tulip for an initiative taken for the social cause towards the welfare of the local community in Al Dakhiliyah region.

(peace be upon him) through their beautiful ‘naats’.

Earlier, Ghulam Murtaza Qadri recited a few verses from the Holy Quran while Muntazir Zaidi recited a ‘naat’ in his amazing voice.

Syed Jameel Zaidi, the chief organiser thanked all the sponsors and supporters for making the event a success.

Presented by Ittfaq Travel and Tourism, the event was sponsored

by Al Hassan Group, Raha Poly Products , Habib Bank Ltd , Al Ansari Trading Company, Mustafa Sultan Enterprises, Abu Sidra Trading, Al Haikal Restaurant, Meerath Restaurant, Sohar Polyproducts and Industries, Mohammed Ashraf Trading, Shaheen Al Jabal, Baqa Modern Trading and Abu Reem Trading.

autologous cells taken from one’s own body, which are then cultured at our laboratories and then, with a simple injection, instantly restores lost volume to the skin for a natural look.”

Liposkill will also be able to shape the body naturally without having to go through surgical procedures. “It can be used all over the face, neck and neckline for such

treatment as filling fine-to-deep wrinkles and deep skin. It can also be used for cheek augmentation and to enhance the shape of the face without facial surgery, anaesthesia, scalpel or stitches,” said Dr. Mucci. Bioscience Clinic also includes a banking facility where a patient’s derived cells are stored at -196 degree Celsius that could be used when needed in the future.

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AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND EYE WORLD CUP GLORY Australia captain Michael Clarke has added a fresh edge to Sunday’s blockbuster World Cup final against New Zealand at Melbourne Cricket Ground by announcing the match will be his last One-day International. >C3

POSITIVE OUTCOME

OFA welcomes Al Wusta Club as 44th member MUSCAT: The Oman Football Association (OFA) welcomed Al Wusta Club as their 44th affiliate member during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at Hormuz Grand Hotel on Saturday.

Al Wusta Club were given the membership after the AGM members agreed to the decision to amend the article regarding the number of affiliated clubs with the Sultanate’s soccer body.

Till now the number was restricted to 43.

Decision on coach During the meeting, the members did not take any action against Oman national team coach Paul Le Guen. Some of clubs have demanded action against the French coach for what they termed as Oman’s disappointing results in the Asian Cup held in Australia in January this year.

However, the General Assembly left it to the OFA board and the technical committee to take a call on the issue.

The members referred a number of other issues for further dis-

cussions but approved the financial report of the last year while also approving 2015 budget.

New chapter Earlier the General Assembly

started with a speech by OFA chief Sayyid Khalid Al Busaidi, who urged all members to start a new chapter in Oman football with the development of the Sultanate soccer as the main objective.

Hamilton holds off Vettel to grab pole in Malaysia The Briton had to battle through traffic just to make the final cut in the second of the three phases and was rewarded with the 40th pole of his career

SEPANG: Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton splashed through the puddles at a rain-soaked Sepang circuit to secure pole position for Mercedes in a hectic Malaysian Grand Prix qualifying on Saturday.

The Briton, who cruised to victory from the front in the seasonopening Australian Grand Prix this month, had to battle through traffic just to make the final cut in the second of the three phases and was rewarded with the 40th pole of his career.

Hamilton clocked one minute and 48.834 seconds on his first lap of the final showdown and the time resisted all challengers, including Sebastian Vettel, who proved Ferrari’s impressive early-season form was no fluke with a solid second place.

“I think the first lap was good, it’s always difficult in conditions like that and not one of us have driven in the wet this weekend,” Hamilton told reporters.

Four-time world champion Vettel, who looks revitalised since joining the Italian outfit from Red Bull at the end of last year, backed up his third-place finish in Australia with a scintillating final lap to trail Hamilton by just 0.074 seconds.

The German not only broke the Mercedes stranglehold in qualifying by beating a disappointed Nico Rosberg, but he also became the first Ferrari driver to sit on the front row since Felipe Massa at the same circuit in 2013.

Rosberg will be joined on the second row by Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo after a tropical downpour

early in the second session forced the drivers to wait in the garage for 35 minutes before the track was safe enough to go out again.

Daniil Kvyat will start in fifth place in the other Red Bull with Toro Rosso’s 17-year-old Max Verstappen joining the Russian on the third row following another impressive afternoon.

Verstappen’s qualifying was the best by a teenager since 19-yearold Mexican Ricardo Rodriguez started on the front row for Ferrari at the 1961 Italian Grand Prix.

It also equalled the career highest grid position of his proud father Jos, at the 1994 Belgian Grand Prix — also in wet conditions.

Mad dash The first round of qualifying went as expected with Hamilton edging Rosberg in sweltering conditions as dark clouds began to roll ominously over the palm oil plantations that surround the circuit south of the Malaysian capital.

The imminent threat of heavy rain sent the surviving 15 cars scurrying for the front of the pitlane at the start of the second phase, all with the faster medium-compound tyres in order to set quick laps before the heavens opened.

STRONG CONTINGENT

OOC finalises delegation for second GCC Beach Games

MUSCAT: The Oman Olympic Committee (OOC) finalised the teams for the second GCC Beach Games to be organised in Doha from April 2 to 9.

The OOC also took several other decisions, including the plans for the rest of the year, during a meeting held under the chairmanship of OOC Vice-Chairman Sheikh Saif bin Hilal Al Hosni here on Thursday.

The Sultanate will be sending a 70-member delegation to Doha

Beach Games and that includes athletes, coaches and their support staff and administrative officials.

The Omani teams will be taking part in beach soccer, beach handball, beach volleyball, 3-on-3 basketball, sailing and open water swimming events at the GCC Beach Games.

The members stressed the need to motivate the Omani athletes to give their best and achieve good results in Doha.

The members also discussed the

preparations for the OOC AGM which is scheduled for Tuesday.

They also discussed the proposal to host an international Sports For All (TAFSISA) meeting in 2019. Also approved during the meeting was a plan to host Olympic Solidarity course for shooting coaches.

Meanwhile, the members also approved the formation of supervising committee for the 2015 Olympic Day events, which this year will take place in November.

Rosberg and Vettel made it safely to the finish in dry conditions at the head of the field but the traffic behind left Hamilton eighth while Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen was only 11th and missed the cut.

It was a bitter blow for the Finn, who had been quick all weekend prior to the downpour, but his absence opened the way for Romain Grosjean in a Lotus and Sauber’s Marcus Ericsson to enter the top 10.

Grosjean was subsequently dropped two places for a pitlane misdemeanour, lifting Valtteri Bottas to eighth behind Williams team mate Felipe Massa in seventh while Ericsson moved up to ninth. Grosjean will line up 10th.

Down at the back, Fernando Alonso’s return to action following a pre-season testing crash saw him qualify in 17th place, one position ahead of team mate Jenson Button as both drivers struggled for pace in the Honda-powered McLarens.

Manor Marussia also had a day to forget on their first qualifying action of the season, Spaniard Roberto Merhi last in his team’s modified 2014 car while team mate Will Stevens was unable to get out of the garage.

Stewards later granted Stevens permission to start. - Reuters

The OFA chief also praised the government for all the support provided for the sport.

During his remarks, he ruled out inviting any sports clubs to be part of the disputes settlement com-

mittee which is with the Oman Olympic Committee.

As per the constitution, there cannot be two disputes settlement committees, he said.

Some members, meanwhile, objected to the use of the word company instead of association in the report while some members questioned the association about ‘doubtful debts’. However, the report indicated that the association’s debt is reduced to OMR 729,000.

The Assembly also opposed the amendment of article which refers to number of members required to call for general meeting.

The Assembly also authorised to OFA chief to form a committee comprising representatives of four clubs and three members from the association to prepare a document on challenges facing Oman football.

(Photos by Jun Estrada/Times of Oman)

BEACH SOCCER

Oman edge Japan to clinch Asian crown

MUSCAT: Having qualified for the World Cup, Oman and Japan fought a royal battle on the sands of Doha, before Talib Hilal’s boys clinched the issue 3-2 via penalties in the Asian Beach Soccer Championship on Saturday.

Both Oman and Japan were locked 1-1 after the completion of the three periods, but Hani Dhabit-led Oman claimed the pennant with a decisive penalty during the shootout.

Oman led the first period by virtue of an early Hani Dhabit goal (2nd minute) but Japan equalised in the second period through skipper Moreira Ozu in the 23rd.

The third period was bar-

ren and in the resultant penalty shootout, Oman converted three through Hani Dhabit, Mandhir Hilal and Abdullah Madoud.

Scorers for Japan were Ozu and Makino Shinji.

Both these teams, however, are on the bus to Portugal to play in the World Cup later this year.

Oman’s supremacy throughout the tournament was such that they maintained a clean slate.

In the semifinals on Friday, Japan edged out Iran 5-4, while Oman earned an 5-4 overtime win against Lebanon.

Meanwhile, Iran routed Lebanon by an 8-3 margin to clinch the third spot and make the World Cup finals.

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SU N DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

SPORTS

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Teejan Beatrice post big win while Yousuf Abdulrahim Al Balushi mad 44 off just 19 balls.

In reply, OCT Al Nahdha were bowled out for 110 in 15.1 overs.

Electing to bat first, OUA Travel scored 157 for six wickets in 20 overs. Teejan Beatrice, in reply,

JUNIOR CUP: Khalsa United after their victory. – Supplied photo

raced to 158 for four in 15.4 overs

Zeeshan stars for Raha

MUSCAT: Teejan Beatrice recorded a convincing six-wicket win against OUA Travel in a Khimji Ramdas-sponsored T20 Intermediate Cup knock-out match.

Electing to bat first, OUA Travel scored 157 for six in 20 overs.

Major contributions came from Mohammed Imtiyaz (52), opening batsman Nahas Haneefa (29), skipper Ratheesh Kumar (23) and Issa Mohammed Moosa Al Balushi (21). Teejan Beatrice, in reply, raced to 158 for four in 15.4 overs with Jibin K. (50) and skipper Feroz O.V. (49) leading the way with an opening partnership of 98 runs in 7.5 overs.

MUSCAT: Zeeshan Ahmed, opening the batting, made a top score of 68 and then bagged three wickets to guide Raha to a 191-run win against OCT Muscat A in a Muscat Pharmacy & Stores-sponsored A Division 50 overs-aside league match.

Opting to bat first, Raha piled up 335 runs for the loss of seven wickets in 50 overs.

In reply, winless OCT Muscat A were bowled out for 144 in 28.5 overs.

Brief scores: OUA Travel 157 for 6 in 20 overs (Mohammed Imtiyaz 52, Nahas Haneefa 29, Ratheesh Kumar 23, Issa Mohammed Moosa Al Balushi 21; Saifurahman 3/23) lost to Teejan Beatrice 158 for 4 in 15.4 overs (Jibin K. 50, Feroz O.V. 49, Rikas M. Ashraf 31 n.o.; Riju Thomas 2/21, Ratheesh Kumar 2/24).

GME down Newrest Wacasco In another T20 Intermediate Cup knockout match, Global Money Exchange (GME) recorded a 42run win against Newrest Wacasco.

Opting to bat first, a 10-man

Global Money Exchange team piled up 182 runs for nine wickets in 20 overs thanks to a top score of 54 from Shaheer Najeeb and a useful 47 from opening batsman Rahul Rajeev. Newrest Wacasco in their turn were bowled out for 140 off 18.1 overs.

Brief scores: Global Money Exchange 182 for 9 in 20 overs (Shaheer Najeeb 54, Rahul Rajeev 47, Suraj Rao 32; Deepak Gakhar 2/29, Kishnaraja 2/33, Jaganathan 2/36) bt Newrest Wacasco 140 in 18.1 overs (Arun Jesvin 38

Brief scores: Raha 335 for 7 in 50 overs (Zeeshan Ahmed 68, Azhar Ali 55, Khursheed Alam 43 n.o., Shahid Naseem 36, Waseem Akhtar 33, Mohd Asif 25, Farhan Afzal Khan 24, Sultan Ahmed 23; Waseem Ismail Al Balushi 2/56, Mohd Aslam Al Balushi 2/62) bt OCT Muscat A 144 in 28.5 overs (Shuaib Ismail Al Balushi 41, Mohd Ali Akbar Al Balushi 21, Abid Ali Al Balushi 21 n.o.; Zeeshan Ahmed 3/4, Khalid Rasheed 2/35, Khursheed Alam 2/41). Points: Raha - 5 (9 games, 34 pts), OCT Muscat A - Nil (10 games, Nil).

n.o., Krishnaraja 29; Anil Kulkarni 3/29, Shaheer Najeeb 2/28, Noushad H. 2/33).

Harendra lifts Bank Muscat Harendra Kumar bowed brilliantly claiming four wickets in two overs as Bank Muscat thumped OCT Al Nahdha by 94 runs in a Khimji Ramdas-sponsored Junior Cup T20 match.

Batting first, Bank Muscat scored 204 for six wickets in 20 overs. Osman Al Zadjali opening the batting top scored with 45

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OMAN CRICKET

Fairtrade conclude season with a win

Brief scores: Bank Muscat 204 for 6 in 20 overs (Osman Al Zadjali 45, Yousuf Abdulrahim Al Balushi 44, Younus Murad 32, Abbas Al Balushi 25, Adil Vawda 23; Waleed Moula Bakhsh 2/31, Rahsid Rasool Bakhsh 2/42) bt OCT Al Nahdha 110 in 15.1 overs (Sharif Al Balushi 28, Khalil Al Balushi 23; Harendra Kumar 4/14).

Khalsa United win thriller Khalsa United registered a thrilling one run win against Abu Maather in another Junior Cup T20 match.

Batting first, Khalsa United were restricted to 136 for seven in 20 overs. Opening batsman Sushil Kadam scored stubborn 53. Abu Maather in their turn were bowled out for 135 in 20 overs.

Brief scores: Khalsa United 136 for 7 in 20 overs (Sushil Kadam 53, Mohammad Danish 20; Zahirul Islam 3/29, Mohammed Rizwan 2/11) bt Abu Maather 135 in 20 overs (Hussain Bin Siraj 32, Waqas Muhammad 29, Shaed Ibrahim Al Balushi 26; Arvind Singh 2/21, Harminder Singh 2/22, Mohammed Parvez 2/25).

Landscape Architecture win Landscape Architecture recorded a 31-run win against Huawei to earn a place in the quarterfinals of the Intermediate Cup T20 tournament.

Deciding to bat first, Landscape Architecture scored 186 for six wickets in 20 overs thanks to an unbeaten 97 from No. 4 batsman Darwish Ellickal and an equally good 44 from Sajeev Sathyanandam. In reply, a 10-member Huawei scored 155 for nine wickets in 20 overs.

Brief scores: Landscape Architecture 186 for 6 in 20 overs (Darwish Ellickal 97 n.o., Sajeev Sathyanandam 44; Sanjeev Kumar 3/30, Nadir Ali Hashmi 2/37) bt Huawei 155 for 9 in 20 overs (Mohammed Neyazul Haque 56, Karthikeyan Jayachandran 35; Pradeep Rajan 2/14).

FAIRTRADE STARS: Sufyan Mahmood and Ibrahim Kutty.

MUSCAT: Fairtrade ended the Oman Cricket 2014/2015 league season with a thumping sevenwicket win against Powertech Engineering in a Al Ansari Group of Companies sponsored C Division T20 match.

Invited to bat first, Powertech Engineering scored 172 for the loss of seven wickets in 20 overs aided by a 81-run opening partnership in nine overs between Imran I. (61 runs) and K. Prabhakaran (46 runs).

Aroan D. (28) and A. Anburaj (20) made valuable contributions.

Anoop Ashok and Arun Kumar bagged two wickets each.

Fairtrade, in reply, lost both openers with the score on 29 but recovered through a 101-run third wicket partnership between No. 3 batsman Sufyan Mahmood

(71 not out) and Ibrahim Kutty (47) to reach 174 for the loss of three wickets in 19.3 overs. Arun Kumar remained unbeaten on 31.

AGM on Monday The annual general meeting (AGM) of Oman Cricket will be held on Monday from 7.00 p.m. at Al Mirani Hall of Al Falaj Hotel in Ruwi. All members who have renewed their Membership for the year 2015 are invited to attend the meeting..

Brief scores: Powertech Engineering 172 for 7 in 20 overs (Imran I. 61, K. Prabhakaran 46, Aroan D. 28, A. Anburaj 20; Anoop Ashok 2/27, Arun Kumar 2/29) lost to Fairtrade 174 for 3 in 19.4 overs (Sufyan Mahmood 71 n.o., Ibrahim Kutty 47, Arun Kumar 31 n.o). Points: Fairtrade - 2 (8 games, 8 pts), Powertech Engineering - Nil (8 games, 8 pts).

BADMINTON

Saina scales historic No.1 ranking NEW DELHI: Saina Nehwal created history on Saturday as she became the first Indian woman shuttler to attain the world No. 1 ranking after her closest challenger for the spot, Spain’s Carolina Marin, lost in the India Open Super Series semifinal here.

Though the official rankings will be out only on Thursday next week, the 25-year-old Indian has been assured of her ascent to the top owing to Marin’s loss in the last-four stage.

The reigning world champion, who was seeded second, lost to third seed Thai Ratchanok Intanon 21-19, 21-23, 22-20.

Prakash Padukone had the distinction of being the No. 1 men’s badminton player but Saina became the first Indian woman to achieve this feat.

The London Olympic bronzemedallist has won a staggering 14 international titles in her glorious career. - PTI

S U N DAY, MAR C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

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TODAY (FINAL AT MCG) NEW ZEALAND V AUSTRALIA (7:30AM OMAN TIME)

SET FOR THE FINALE: Australia’s captain Michael Clarke, left, and New Zealand’s captain Brendon McCullum shake hands as they pose with the Cricket World Cup trophy at the MCG in Melbourne. – AP/PTI

Australia, New Zealand eye glory Australia captain Michael Clarke has added a fresh edge to today’s blockbuster World Cup final against New Zealand at the Melbourne Cricket Ground by announcing the match will be his last One-day International

MELBOURNE: Australia captain Michael Clarke has added a fresh edge to Sunday’s blockbuster World Cup final against New Zealand in Melbourne by announcing the match will be his last One-day International.

“I think it’s the right time for me and the Australian cricket team,” the 33-year-old Clarke told reporters on Saturday.

“I made the decision 48 hours ago when I asked myself if I thought I would be playing in the next World Cup and I said to myself that ‘I don’t think I will be’,” added Clarke, whose career has been blighted by back and hamstring problems.

Clarke has played 244 One-day Internationals, scoring 7,907 runs with a highest score of 130 since

his debut in 2003.

He intends to keep playing Tests, however, having already featured in 108 matches, with 8,432 runs and a highest score of 329 not out.

New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum struck the first psychological blow when he named his team 24 hours before the final.

Unsurprisingly, the Black Caps retained the same side which edged out South Africa in the semifinals.

“It’s captivated the country back home, it’s immensely satisfying but we have to build on it. Gee it would be nice to win it,” said McCullum at his pre-match news conference.

Meanwhile International Cricket Council chief executive David Richardson proclaimed the 2015 World Cup to be the “most-followed and best-attended cricket event in history”.

Among a plethora of statistics,

the ICC cited a a crowd of 86,000 at the MCG for the India-South Africa pool match on February 22 — “a phenomenal result given that neither of the host teams were involved” — and that the official website had attracted 227 million page views as evidence of the tournament’s success.

New Zealand go into their first title clash in cricket’s 50-overs-aside showpiece as the only unbeaten team in the tournament, having won eight games in a row.

One of those wins was against Australia in a low-scoring pool stage thriller in Auckland on February 28 when a Kane Williamson six off Pat Cummins helped them surpass a modest target of 152 with one wicket standing.

It was at the same Eden Park in Auckland that the Black Caps downed South Africa in a nervetingling semifinal on Tuesday with a penultimate-ball six by

Grant Elliott.

Rugby-mad nation New Zealand’s first semifinal win in seven attempts left an enthralled rugby-mad nation backing their cricketers to take home a trophy that has so far eluded them in the World Cup’s 40-year history.

Australia, the top-ranked side in ODI cricket, are bidding for a fifth World Cup title and will be favourites on home turf at the MCG, where New Zealand last played an ODI in 2009. Clarke said the Black Caps may struggle to adjust to conditions at the 90,000 capacity ground after playing all their eight previous matches this tournament on their own grounds across the Tasman Sea. “Conditions are a lot different to what New Zealand have been playing in New Zealand,” Clarke said after his team’s emphatic 95-run semi-final victory over defending champions India on Thursday.

However, New Zealand have defeated Australia in three of their last five ODIs at the MCG and their most recent appearance saw semi-final star Elliott’s unbeaten 61 fashion a six-wicket win with seven balls to spare after Australia had been restricted to 225 for five from 50 overs.

Opener Martin Guptill, who hit a World Cup record score of 237 not out against the West Indies, is just 10 runs away from surpassing Sri Lanka star Kumar Sangakkara’s tally of 541 to become the tournament’s leading run-getter.

Left-armer Trent Boult is the leading bowler in this edition with 21 wickets, one more than Aussie paceman Mitchell Starc, while seamer Tim Southee and veteran spinner Daniel Vettori have 15 wickets each.

The 36-year-old Vettori is likely to end his international career after Sunday’s final. - AFP

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SU N DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

Test cricket the pinnacle: Clarke Australian captain Michael Clarke made a surprise announcement on eve of Sunday’s final that the showpiece match would mark his 245th and last One-day International for his country MELBOURNE: Australia captain Michael Clarke accepted he may be running against the tide of public opinion but insisted he had no regrets about putting Test cricket above one-day and Twenty20 in his list of priorities in order to prolong his playing career.

Clarke made a surprise announcement on the eve of Sunday’s World Cup final against New Zealand in Melbourne that the showpiece match would mark his 245th and last one-day international for his country.

The 33-year-old said he was

making the decision to extend his Test career after an injury-blighted home season which for a time put his playing future in doubt.

Clarke, one of the outstanding batsmen of his generation, made no bones about where his priorities lay ahead of trying to lead Australia to their fifth World Cup title, against the Black Caps at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

“I’ve never hid behind the fact that I find Test cricket to be the pinnacle of our sport,” Clarke told a pre-match news conference on Saturday.

“I’ve never probably gone down that road anyway in regards to what is the best thing to do for the public interest, as I’m sure you would have seen through my career. “I’ve copped my fair share of smacks in the mouth. But I am who I am and it’s about being true to myself, and I don’t feel bad about saying that I believe Test cricket is the toughest part of our game.

“I love that challenge. I find it extremely difficult every Test match I play. I do see it as the pinnacle.

“I love T20 cricket and I love one-day cricket and I will continue to support and watch a lot of that,” added Clarke.

“But I still think I’ve got a lot to offer the team as captain of the Australian Test team, and I want to make sure I continue to have success in that format.”

Clarke said he was optimistic about the future of Test cricket, despite the great success of the 2015 World Cup and the popularity of Twenty20 matches.

“I certainly am. I think if you ask the players, their opinions aren’t too different to mine,” he said.

FA C T F I L E

Factfile on Australia captain Michael Clarke who will retire from One-day International cricket after Sunday’s World Cup final: Full name: Michael John Clarke Date of birth: April 2, 1981 Teams: Australia, Hampshire, New South Wales, Pune Warriors Nickname: Pup Test record: Matches: 108, Runs: 8,432, Highest score: 329 not out, Average: 50.79, 100s: 28, 50s: 27, Wickets: 31, Best bowling: 6-9 ODI record: Matches: 244, Runs: 7,907, Highest score: 130, Average: 44.42, 100s: 8, 50s: 57, Wickets: 57, Best bowling: 5-35 Twenty20 record: Matches: 34, Runs: 488, Highest score: 67, Average: 21.21, 100s: 0, 50s: 1, Wickets: 6, Best bowling: 1-2

“I think Test cricket is the ultimate for an Australian sportsman.

Long may that continue.

“It mightn’t be that way, but my hope and goal is that Test cricket

continues to grow,” the New South Wales shot-maker added.

“I think we’ve seen over the past few years some really hard-fought Test cricket, and I think that’s

brought a lot of people, a lot of new people to our game.

“I think there’s room for all three formats. I’ve always said that. I’d like to see that continue.” - AFP

C O M M E N TA RY

Clarke has been a terrific servant of Australian cricket

A

t the outset, I had tipped the co-hosts Australia and New Zealand to be the two sides battling it out for the ICC World Cup at MCG on March 29, and that’s exactly how it’s turned out.

Hopefully, it will be an occasion to remember, but I must admit that part of me fears it could follow a similar path to the semifinal between Australia and India which promised so much but ended up being fairly one-sided.

That could very well be the case today if New Zealand, who’ve played all their games at home so far, don’t adjust quickly to the conditions.

Don’t get me wrong! Brendon McCullum’s men have won thousands of admirers through the course of this tournament with the brand of cricket that they’ve played, and I’m no exception. What I love best about their approach is that they play with absolutely no fear.

And they’ll surely be on a high from coming out on top in that thrilling semifinal encoun-

ter against South Africa. But as I said, they are confronted with the challenge of adapting from the wickets and smaller grounds in New Zealand to what awaits them at the MCG. Throw in the fact that this is the World Cup final, a first for the Kiwis, so it will also be a stern test of their nerves.

Although, while Australia have been in World Cup finals before, only two players from the current squad, skipper Michael Clarke and Shane Watson, have actually played in one.

But there is one stat that New Zealand will take heart from, and that is the last time they played Australia at the MCG back in 2009, they won.

Six of the current Kiwi squad including skipper Brendon McCullum and Daniel Vettori

I hope to see Michael Clarke exit the one-day game the same way I did in 2007, as a world champion. I’ve a good feeling that he will will remember that occasion fondly. And you can bet they’ll be discussing it a fair bit with their younger teammates who weren’t around then.

Returning to the difference in New Zealand and Australian conditions, the wickets in Australia, especially at the MCG have been very generous to batsmen.

So the ball won’t be doing a great deal. With both sides possessing quality bowling attacks, the winner most likely will be the team that better handles the opposition’s bowling.

New Zealand will recognise the value of having the outstanding Steve Smith back in the pavilion early, while McCullum would be on the radar of Starc, Hazlewood and Johnson.

Another important factor stems from the group stage fixture between the two teams.

That was a game which Australia went into having not played for two weeks and they struggled to apply themselves.

But what ought to have been a convincing win for the Kiwis turned into a nail-biter which might have ended in a moral victory for Australia.

It’s set to be the last ODI game for Clarke. He sure has been a terrific servant of Australian cricket in general.

In the eight years since I’ve been retired, he’s done some incredible things. Though he’ll still be around the Test scene, I hope to see him exit the one-day game the same way I did in 2007, as a world champion! I’ve got a good feeling that he will. - PMG FA N F O L L O W I N G

Kiwis descend on Melbourne MELBOURNE: Kiwi fans daubed in black came out in droves on Saturday to support New Zealand on the eve of their team’s first World Cup final, against fierce rivals Australia in Melbourne. Fans gathered around the nets outside the vast Melbourne Cricket Ground arena to get a glimpse of their heroes training under cool cloudy skies.

According to government statistics there are about 650,000 New Zealand citizens living in Australia, which is around 15 percent of the population of New Zealand. The huge diaspora of Kiwis residing in Australia means there is passionate support for their rugby and cricket teams whenever they cross the Tasman.

There was a brisk trade inside the merchandising tent outside the ground with supporters, predominantly New Zealanders, snapping up playing shirts, flags and caps for Sunday’s final which is expected to draw an 80,000-90,000 crowd. - AFP

S U N DAY, MAR C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

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C O M M E N TA RY

There’s nothing like the first time

N

ew Zealand’s stirring progress towards Melbourne and the eventual crossing of the ditch to take on their big brothers across the Tasman doesn’t look like an impossible dream turning inevitable all of a sudden. It’s an awesome reality waiting to unfold right from the word go when the co-hosts opened their campaign against Sri Lanka, and the ravishing hint of the brave new romance came from the leader of the pack as the first ball faced

by Brendon McCullum was dispatched to the rope to post the first boundary of the championship. The writing was on the fence.

The less-accomplished co-hosts of the 11th edition of the World Cup were one of the four favourites to make it to the summit months before the 100-day countdown had begun, though the nation of a little more than four million— right from the man on the street to the rugby greats— has been in a “pinch-me” sort of joyous disbelief ever since Brendon and his boys dumped South Africa out of this World in the semifinal.

For six of the guys in the New Zealand team taking the field today at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, it’s a case of been there and done it, but they will be under no illusion that doing it again on a stage as big as this is not going to be easy. Not easy, but not impossible.

When New Zealand played at Melbourne in 2009 in the second of the Chappell-Hadlee ODI series, they cruised home in 48.5 overs with six wickets in hand after restricting Australia for a below-par 225. That, incidentally, was the last time the brothers from across the Tasman tested their might at MCG. Six New Zealanders from that day, and four from the Australian camp, form part of the current teams, but the equations of the past will mean little this time around. The way the game is played now is daringly different. The rules have changed, new guys with awesome attitude have come in, and what’s at stake is no bilateral matter but a world title that remains with the winners for four fabulous years and the fame of doing it forever.

The vital elements of that 2009 team are still intact.

The six — Martin Guptill, Brendon McCullum, Daniel Vettori, Ross Taylor, Grant Elliott and Tim Southee — and some of the replacements for the five, like Trent Boult and Kane Williamson, are match winners. But how

The joy of seeing a team winning for the fifth time is boring, but the joy of a team winning it for the first time is inspiring and if this Six Plus could outsmart the Australian S-factor — Starc and Smith — would help define the day, direction and the dreams of a nation at least until it slips back into rugby mode to cheer on the All Blacks in their run-up to the World Cup scheduled to start in September.

Mitchell Starc and Steven Smith have delivered convincingly and unfailingly for their team in the summer, and their performance has been exceptional in this World Cup. McCullum played 75 balls to score 43 in the 2009 game, but it’s unlikely he will show even a trace of that patience today.

He now sets the agenda for the team right from the first ball and in the most aggressive way, whether it’s with his batting or with his attacking, four-slip field settings. He will need more than a bit of luck — perhaps the unreserved favour of a lurking new delightful destiny — to set the tone against Starc. Not easy, but not impossible.

Even when most factors point to an Australian victory, trans-Tasman facts call for due consideration. The little brothers from across the Tasman understand and stand up to the Australian game plan—staring, chirping and all that—better than anyone else. And for that simple reason, it’s New Zealand more than any other team who could call the Aussie bluff.

My heart wishes for New Zealand. The joy of a team, and of seeing a team, winning it for the fifth time is boring and momentary, but the joy of a team winning it for the first time is inspiring and contagious. There’s nothing quite like the first time.

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

WHO WILL BE SUCCESSFUL? This combo of file photographs shows Australian captain Michael Clarke, left, and New Zealand captain

Brendon McCullum. The two captains will look to stamp their supremacy in Melbourne on Sunday.

If we play to our best, we’ll win, says Clarke Clarke said he wanted

‘Ultimate game’ excites McCullum

his teammates to go out before an anticipated 90,000 full house in a highstakes game and play with freedom

MELBOURNE: Michael Clarke is adamant about Australia’s chances of winning a record fifth World Cup, claiming on Saturday: “I believe if we play our best, we can beat New Zealand tomorrow.”

Bookmakers have installed the Aussies as 9-4 favourites to win the tournament decider at the Melbourne Cricket Ground with the Black Caps playing in their first World Cup final.

The Kiwis have been the form team, winning all of their eight matches, including a nerve-tingling one-wicket win over Clarke’s team in Auckland in the pool stage, but now they must play their first game in the tournament away from home. “I believe if we play our best, we can beat New Zealand,” Clarke told reporters Saturday.

“I don’t buy into the favourites or not favourites. New Zealand have been the form team of the competition. New Zealand have beaten us once in this tournament.

But I’m confident if we play our

MELBOURNE: New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum said he was excited, not intimidated, at the prospect of leading his country in their first World Cup final when they face old foes Australia at the gigantic Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Australia, the top-ranked side in One-day International cricket, are bidding for a fifth World Cup title and will be considered favourites on home turf at the MCG where New Zealand last played an ODI in 2009.

“We are not intimidated, we are excited,” McCullum said on Saturday. “This has been

best, we can beat them tomorrow.”

Clarke, who dropped a retirement bombshell by announcing that Sunday’s final will be his 245th and last ODI, said winning was about the team and not for his circumstances. “It’s a special game, no doubt about it, but it needs to be about the team and I want it to be about the team,” he said. “I’ve just said it to my teammates. And I’ve been the one to come out and say, it’s not emotion, it’s skill that helps you win major games and major tournaments, and tomorrow will be no different. It’s a wonderful opportunity for every single player in that change room to walk out onto the MCG in a World Cup final. It’s a very

the greatest time of our lives.

We dreamed right from the start and to reach the final is an amazing achievement.”

New Zealand crossed the semifinal hurdle for the first time in seven attempts to leave an enthralled rugby-mad nation backing their cricketers to take home cricket’s biggest global prize. “We’ve had some tremendous support back home and also from around the world,” said McCullum.

“The brand of cricket that we’ve played has really touched a lot of people and endeared ourselves to a lot of people who

special event. But yeah, it’s no more special because it’s my last game.”

Clarke said he wanted his teammates to go out before an anticipated 90,000 full house in a high-stakes game and play with freedom. “I’ve been fortunate enough to play in two previous World Cups and win one of those.

So I know what the feeling is like,” he said. “Even when I think back to 2007, there was such a buildup about the World Cup final, but the emotion and the adrenaline and the feeling didn’t hit me until after the game when we were celebrating together as a team.”

Given his decision to retire from ODIs, Clarke said he was unaware

follow this game. “Hopefully, if we play well we’ll be smiling at the end of the day and be able to look back on a fantastic campaign and something which would hopefully invigorate the game and New Zealand.”

McCullum said the expected full house of 90,000 would see a keen contest. “I guess this is the ultimate game for us.”

McCullum hoped his team could win the World Cup for 36-year-old Daniel Vettori, who is likely to end his career. after Sunday’s final even though the spinner has taken 15 wickets in the tournament.- AFP

if other senior teammates, notably Shane Watson and Mitchell Johnson, were also contemplating quitting the shorter form of the game.

“I think everybody in that dressing room has a lot more cricket left in their body. That’s for sure,” said Clarke. “If the desire is still there and they’re playing for the right reasons, then I don’t see any reason why they would stop. I haven’t spoken to any of them about their individual decisions, how they feel, what they’re going to do.

“My main focus has been making sure everyone is fit and healthy and feeling good about this tournament. If they want to continue, I think it’ll be left up to them.” - AFP

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SUN DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

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21 wickets in 8 innings

GUPTILL Right handed batsman, the second most run scorer in the tournament behind Sangakkara of Sri Lanka with 541 runs

Against South Africa (281 for 5 wickets) in 258 balls (43 overs) Target 298 set by Duckworth Lewis method Top contributor with ball Anderson 3 wickets in 6 overs (12.00 runs/over)

Top contributor with bat Elliott 84 runs from 73 balls

New Zealand Won by 4 wkts Semifinal

299

runs in 42.5 overs for 6 wkts by New Zealand

Against West Indies (250 all out) in 183 balls (30.3 overs)

Boult 4 wickets in 10 overs (4.40 runs/over)

Guptill 237 runs from 163 balls

THE P TO FI

Won by 143 runs Quarterfinal

393

runs in 50 overs for 6 wkts by New Zealand

Against Australia (151 all out) in 194 balls (32.2 overs)

Boult 5 wickets in 10 overs (2.70 runs/over)

McCullum 50 runs from 24 balls

Won by 1 wicket League Match

152

runs in 23.1 overs for 9 wkts by New Zealand

Against England (123 all out) in 200 balls (33.2 overs)

Southee 7 wickets in 9 overs (3.66/over)

McCullum 77 runs from 25 balls

Won by 8 wkts League Match

125

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188

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Vettori 4 wickets in 10 overs (1.80 runs/over)

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Against Afghanisatan (186 all out) in 286 balls (47.4 overs)

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290

runs in 48.5 overs for 7 wkts by New Zealand

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Guptill 105 runs from 100 balls

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Australia 281/4 228 balls (38)

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runs in 24.5 overs for 7 wkts by New Zealand

Against Sri Lanka (233 all out) in 277 balls (43.1 overs)

Won by 98 runs League Match

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146

Pakistan 249/6 300 balls (50)

Australia 253/5 300 balls (50)

Vettori 2 wickets in 10 overs (3.40 runs/over)

Anderson 75 runs from 46 balls

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SMITH Right handed batsman, the tenth most run scorer in the tournament behind Sangakkara of Sri Lanka with 541 runs

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Total runs scored in 7 innings Smith Highest run scorer

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India 234/10 236 balls (39.2)

Won by 275 runs League Match

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Against Afghanisatan (142 all out) in 225 balls (37.3 overs)

Warner 178 runs from 133 balls

417

Johnson 4 wickets in 7.3 overs (2.93 runs/over)

runs in 50 overs for 6 wkts by Australia

Lost by 1 wicket League Match

Against New Zealand (152 for 9 wkts) in 139 balls (23.1 overs)

151

Haddin 43 runs from 41 balls

Starc 6 wickets in 9 overs (3.11 runs/over)

Finch 135 runs from 128 balls

Marsh 5 wickets in 9 overs (3.66 runs/over)

Clarke 47 runs from 47 balls

Starc 4 wickets in 4.4 overs (3.00 runs/over)

runs in 32.2 overs for 10 wkts by Australia

Won by 111 runs League Match

Against England (231 all out) in 251 balls (41.5 overs)

342

runs in 50 overs for 9 wkts by Australia

Pakistan 132/10 234 balls (39) Won by 7 wkts League Match

Against Scotland (130 all out) in 154 balls (25.4 overs)

Australia 241/7 300 balls (50)

England 227/10 296 balls (49.2)

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Runner-ups

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times Australia have been to the world cup final before

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o the knock-out stage. This also

|||||||||| |||||||||| |||||||||| |||||||||| |||||||||| |||||||||| |||||||||| |||||||||| |||||||||| |||||||||| |||||||||| |||||||||| |||||||||| ||||

mmit clash. Both the teams played

Hazlewood 4 wickets in 10 overs (3.50 runs/over)

runs in 33.5 overs for 4 wkts by Australia

Running between the wickets

a statistical account of the progress

Smith 65 runs from 69 balls

216

the passage of New Zealand

h will be played at the Melbourne

Against Pakistan (213 all out) in 299 balls (49.5 overs)

runs in 15.2 overs for 3 wkts by Australia

Won by 64 runs

England

133

League Match

Against Sri Lanka (312 all out) in 278 balls (46.2 overs)

246/8 300 balls (50)

West Indies 140/10 312 balls (52)

Maxwell 102 runs from 53 balls

376

runs in 50 overs for 9 wkts by Australia

England

1

194/10 306 balls (51)

1

1 1

1 2

274/10 352 balls (58.4)

info.com, wikipedia

2

1 2

1 1 1

1

Australia

Faulkner 3 wickets in 9 overs (5.33 runs/over)

1 1 1

1 2

1

2

1 1

1

1

1

One Over

1

3

1

1

1 1

1 1

1

1 1

1

1

Opposition bowling

1

1

1 Wicket(s)

1

C8

SU N DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

LOOKING BACK

Australia-New Zealand final revives ‘underarm’ memories MELBOURNE: Whatever happens in Sunday’s World Cup final between Australia and New Zealand at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, it will have to go some way to matching the bitter fall-out from another one-day international clash between the two countries at the MCG back in 1981.

What might have been a forgettable third final of the one-day series produced one of the most controversial finishes of all-time when, with New Zealand needing six to tie off the last ball, Australia captain Greg Chappell instructed younger brother Trevor to role the ball underarm along the ground.

Angry New Zealand tailender Brian McKechnie, who was on

strike, threw his bat away in disgust and Greg Chappell’s decision brought forth a torrent of criticism.

New Zealand’s then Prime Minister, Robert Muldoon, said the delivery was “an act of true cowardice and I consider it appropriate that the Australian team were wearing yellow”.

Meanwhile former Australia captain Ian Chappell, Greg and Ian’s older brother, said: “Fair dinkum, Greg. How much pride do you sacrifice to win $A35,000?”

Trevor Chappell said he “thought (the underarm) delivery was a pretty good idea at the time” even though “obviously it wasn’t in the spirit of the game”.

Last year, Trevor Chappell, who

after he retired took up coaching roles with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Singapore, as well as in Australian schools, told the Cricinfo website: “People prob-

ably wouldn’t remember me (if the underarm incident hadn’t happened).”

But Greg Chappell, who has often spoken of his regret at involv-

Cricket Australia’s national talent manager. “They weren’t going to get six off the last ball of the game.

“It was my statement. My cry for help was: ‘You’re not listening. This might help you sit up and take notice’,” added Chappell, whose postplaying career was marked by a controversial spell as coach of India.

But while it did little for Greg Chappell’s cause, McKechnie, speaking to New Zealand’s Television Three, on Thursday, said the incident had helped establish cricket’s place in a rugby-mad country — something he was well-placed to appreciate as a dual international who kicked a winning penalty late on for the All Blacks against Wales in Cardiff in 1978. - AFP

PA S S I O N

C O M M E N TA RY

Man to man, Aussies look better

M

ost sportspersons are superstitious even if they may not admit being so. They have a ‘lucky’ shirt or trousers or bat or racquet or something that they consider ‘lucky’ and brings them success.

John McEnroe, Rafa Nadal, Maria Sharapova don’t touch the lines in between points.

Cricketers are known to put their left leg guard before the right one or walk on the right side of their partner while going out to bat or enter the field last if they are fielding. I liked to wear something new on the day I expected to bat. It could be a tee shirt or shorts or socks, anything but new. Ask any sportsperson who is superstitious and he/she will say that it is better to be superstitious than sorry later for not having followed a superstition.

If New Zealand’s players and their supporters are superstitious, they too will be nervous that the final is being played in Melbourne, Australia. All the matches that the Kiwis have played so far have been in New Zealand, and now, here they are for the most important match of their lives and they are going to be playing in the cauldron that they are unfamiliar with.

Melbourne is probably the biggest ground in the world and the boundaries are long unlike those in New Zealand where some of the boundaries are as

ing Trevor, said the first time he realised the impact of his decision was shortly after match ended.

“One little girl ran beside me and tugged on my sleeve and said, ‘You cheated’,” he recalled. “That was (when) I knew it would be bigger than I expected.”

Greg Chappell said the ‘underarm’ had come about because of the pressure he felt arising from Australia’s relentless schedule in the years immediately after the split with media businessman Kerry Packer’s ‘rebel’ World Series Cricket came to an end.

“The underarm had very little to do with winning that game of cricket, because, in fact, we’d won the game,” said Chappell, now

short as the ones on the gymkhanas of Mumbai. The shots that went for sixes there could well be out caught in the deep at the MCG. The ball will also not swing in the air as much as it does in New Zealand, though the bounce will be greater than on the Kiwi grounds. New Zealand’s strength has been their new ball attack of Trent Boult and Tim Southee supported by Corey Anderson and Matt Henry. They could well struggle at the MCG. The one man who can make a difference is Brendon McCullum, for he can inspire his team not just with his batting but also his leadership. If he just reins in his batting, he could make a more substantial contribution than he has done so far.

Man to man, the Australians look better on paper, but cricket games, especially the finals, are not played on paper but in the mind, and the team that is stronger mentally will come through. New Zealand have shown they have the nerve with their thrilling win over the South Africans in the semifinals. Can they hold it against the ‘big brother’? — PMG

Ailing Crowe pens emotional tribute MELBOURNE: New Zealand’s former cricket captain Martin Crowe, who is terminally ill with lymphoma, has penned a moving tribute to his countrymen ahead of Sunday’s World Cup final against Australia.

In a heart-wrenching column published on Cricinfo, the 52-year-old said Sunday’s match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground might be the last he ever sees.

“My precarious life ahead may not afford me the luxury of many more games to watch and enjoy,” Crowe wrote. “So this is likely to be it. The last, maybe, and I can happily live with that.”

Crowe, who played 77 Tests and 143 One-Day Internationals for New Zealand, was regarded as one of the world’s best batsmen during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

He was diagnosed with follicular lymphoma two years ago but it went into remission. Late last year, however, a new, more aggressive form of the disease, double-hit lymphoma, developed and he said he had been told only five percent of sufferers survive more than 12 months.

Crowe said he had decided against chemotherapy and was instead trying natural treatments. He was inducted into the international cricket Hall of Fame last month and is making the trip from New Zealand

Martin Crowe

to watch the final live, cheering on the players he regards as the “sons I never had”.

“I will hold back tears all day long. I will gasp for air on occasions. I will feel like a nervous parent,” he wrote.

“Whatever happens, March 29 at the MCG will be the most divine fun ever.”

Current Black Caps skipper Brendon McCullum said he had read Crowe’s column and he paid tribute to his ailing predecessor.

“I think what he’s going through at the moment is incredibly difficult. We had him involved in the group, and not long ago as well we came and spent time with the team and it was great,” McCullum said.

“It’s really sad what he’s going through and we just hope that he’s able to find some peace in the time that he’s got left.” - Reuters AFTER WORLD CUP

Team India back home MUMBAI: Star Indian batsman Virat Kohli and his actress girlfriend Anushka Sharma, who was the target of a vicious social media attack after India’s World Cup ouster, arrived in the west Indian city of Mumbai on Saturday, while skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni landed in the national capital Delhi.

Kohli and Anushka walked hand in hand amid a sea of media at the Mumbai International Airport. The batsman made just one run in the lost semifinal against Australia and Anushka, who was in the stands during the game, was blamed for his poor show on social media platforms such as Twitter.

Elsewhere, Dhoni landed in Delhi, while five other players besides Team Director Ravi Shastri, touched down at the Mumbai International Airport.

Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel also returned to Mumbai.

The rest of the team will arrive soon. - PTI

C

LIFE & STYLE

SECTION

D

o you ever have difficulty telling right from left? For example, you’re taking a driving lesson and the instructor asks you to take a left turn and you pause, struggling to think of which way is left. If so, you’re not on your own – a significant proportion of our population has difficulty in telling right from left.

Left-right discrimination is a complex neuro-psychological process involving several higher neurological functions, such as

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM S U N DAY, MAR C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

the ability to integrate sensory and visual information, language function and memory. For some it is second nature but for others a considerable challenge. You can take a test here to see how well you do.

One further problem facing the health profession is that when a doctor or nurse faces a patient, their right-side is on the patient’s left-side. So correctly distinguishing right from left in a patient also involves the visuo-spatial function of mentally rotating images.

Wrong turns to avoidable errors It’s hardly the end of the world if you take the wrong direction on a journey, but there are many situations where confusing right from left can have devastating consequences. Some of the most tragic errors in medicine have been when surgery was performed on the wrong side of a patient: removing the wrong kidney or amputating the wrong leg. While there are systems, checks and balances in

The ‘distraction effect’ Distinguishing right from left also never occurs in isolation. Hospitals and other health settings are busy and complex places to work in. Doctors are often subject to distractions while working; receiving telephone calls, cardiac monitors bleeping, taking questions from colleagues, patients and their relatives – the clinical environment can be very challenging.

In research we published in Medical Education, we explored

the impact of such interruptions on medical students’ ability to correctly discriminate right from left. While objectively measuring 234 medical students‘ ability to distinguish right from left, we subjected them to the typical ambient noise of a ward environment and interrupted them with clinical questions.

Our findings were startling.

Even the background noise of a ward environment was enough to throw some medical students

place to anticipate and minimise these kinds of mistakes, when they do occur, human error is often at the root of the cause. Error is an inherent characteristic of human behaviour – sometimes we just get things wrong – but left-right ones may be more than a one-off accident. Evidence would suggest that right-left confusion is more common in women. The literature would appear to suggest that men demonstrate a greater degree of visuo-spatial function.

off when making right-left judgements. Asking them a series of questions while they were trying to distinguish right from left had an even greater impact. The “distraction effect” was greater for older and female students.

An individual’s ability to selfdetermine how well they could distinguish right from left was also often imprecise. So many students thought they were good at distinguishing right from left when, objectively measured, they weren’t.

Counter techniques Those who have difficulty in telling right from left often develop their own techniques – for example placing their left thumb at right angles to their index finger to make an “L” representation for their “left” side.

It appears however that these techniques remain fallible and fail to combat this issue in all cases.

In healthcare, training – starting at an undergraduate level – needs to make students mindful of the challenges of making right-left

decisions and the impact that distractions can have on such critical decisions. We need to develop strategies to reduce such error-provoking situations and to raise student and teacher awareness of the fact that some individuals are more prone to right-left confusion. As the people at risk often don’t think they have a problem, testing of the ability to discriminate against rightleft discrimination – for example through online psychometric tests – could be offered to students to

measure their ability. Those who are revealed to be challenged in making right-left decisions, would at least have this deficiency flagged up and could apply extra vigilance in certain situations. Minimising distractions is also particularly important. During the critical phases of a flight, pilots must refrain from all non-essential conversation to avoid unnecessary distractions.

Such cockpit rules, and other strategies lend themselves well to healthcare. - Gerard Gormley/The Independent

C10

SUN DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

PRAYER TIMINGS

FIND-IT-ALL Y O U R B I R T H D AY

BORN today, you are going to do things your way, whether or not your methods have ever been the accepted way of doing them. You are a strongwilled individual, not one to be swayed by the opinions of others, and you will stay the course no matter what — even if it means attracting criticism, vitriol and aggression from others. When you believe you are right, then you are right and there’s nothing anyone else can say or do to change your mind. It is this confidence that is sure to bring you success in life, even in those endeavours to which you cannot apply the highest level of talent or skill. What allows you to win, then?

Tenacity, sheer tenacity — and the belief that you deserve to win in the first place.

Those who do not like you are likely to despise you; those who like you are likely to adore you. This is the polarity of feeling that you inspire, and you are likely to feel about others the way they feel about you — and treat them accordingly. Conflict, then, is something you will surely get used to in life.

Also born on this date are: Scott Wilson, actor; Lucy Lawless, actress; Elle Macpherson, model; Cy Young, baseball player; John Tyler, US president; Brendan Gleeson, actor; Marina Sirtis, actress; Eric Idle, actor and comedian; Christopher Lambert, actor; Pearl Bailey, actress; Jennifer Capriati, tennis player; Annabella Sciorra, actress; Amy Sedaris, actress; Bud Cort, actor; Terry Jacks, singer.

W E AT H E R

C

WORLD

Max 31 Min 21 Max 9 Min 2

Max 34 Min 22

Max 31 Min 24 Max 13 Min 8

Max 32 Min 29

Max 7 Min 0

Max 36 Min 19

Max 37 Min 15

Max 38 Min 21

Max 33 Min 22

Max 33 Min 21

[March 21-APRIL 19] Max 33 Min 26

Max 27 Min 15

-www.met.gov.om

Max 33 Min 23 Max 26 Min 16

Min

GULF Abu Dhabi Doha Dubai Kuwait Manama Riyadh

29 27 32 33 26 33

21 22 20 23 21 21

WORLD Athens Baghdad Beijing Berlin Boston Cairo Colombo Frankfurt Hong Kong Istanbul Johannesburg Kuala Lumpur Lisbon Paris Perth Singapore Tokyo Toronto

16 27 24 12 6 26 31 12 23 14 23 34 18 14 29 31 18 5

11 18 9 8 0 14 24 8 20 8 13 25 11 11 16 26 10 -2

L O N G D I S TA N C E B U S T I M I N G S ( O M A N N AT I O N A L T R A N S P O R T C O M PA N Y S A O C ) * S U B J E C T T O C H A N G E

FROM MUSCAT (RUWI)

TO MUSCAT (RUWI)

[APRIL 20-MAY 20] Communication is essential, as always, and you can bring something new to the table that all will want to take in simultaneously.

GEMINI [MAY 21-JUNE 20] Your know-how is not in question, but the way you demonstrate it is.

You may want to choose a path that is more conventional.

CANCER [JUNE 21-JULY 22] The usual ups and downs will affect you very little, and those around you will remark upon your ability to stay buoyant.

LEO [JULY 23-AUG. 22] Now is no time to give up. When you are challenged directly, you’ll want to answer back in kind. You may experiment with a new image of sorts.

VIRGO [AUG. 23-SEPT. 22] Someone is being a little too nosy for your taste, but if you don’t say something now, you may not have another chance.

LIBRA L [[SEPT. [S S 23-OCT. 22] You’re likely to make an important discovery that affects a personal endeavour. What lies in store is more important than any past events.

SCORPIO S [[OCT. 23-NOV. 21] You want to be sure that everything is squarely in order before you start shaking things up to see what happens as a result!

SAGITTARIUS S [[NOV. 22-DEC. 21] Success depends upon your ability to see what lies around each corner.

This foresight is more than mere anticipation.

CAPRICORN [DEC. 22-JAN 19] That which was crystal clear to you only yesterday is likely to prove a much more complicated issue today.

You know what is in play.

AQUARIUS [JAN. 20-FEB. 18] You may have to work harder than planned merely to do something that should be second nature. You’re out of sync, perhaps.

PISCES [Feb. 19-March 20] You’re striving for flawlessness, but what you can actually achieve is not likely to be quite that remarkable — yet.

Sunset Sunrise (Tomorrow)

6:21pm 6:03am

High tide Low tide

4:36am 11:27am

5:36pm 11.44pm

light to moderate along southeastern coast.

SEA STATE: Slight along most of Oman’s coast with maximum wave height of 1.0 meters.

HORIZONTAL VISIBILITY: Good over most of the Sultanate becoming poor during rain.

THE NEXT 48 HOURS OUTLOOK: Chance of convective clouds developments and thundershower over al-Hajar mountains and adjoining areas. Chances of late night to early morning low level clouds and fog patches over governorates of South al-Sharqiya and al-Wusta.

Max

OMAN

TAURUS

12.17pm 3.44pm 6.26pm 7.37pm 4.47am

AIRLINES

lear to partly cloudy skies over northern governorates of the sultanate with chances of rain occasionally thundershowers over the governorates of Musandam, north al-Batinah and south al-Sharqiya and chances of clouds development and thundershowers over Al-Hajar mountains and adjoining areas extend to the coastal areas of Oman sea at evening . Chances of late night to early morning low level clouds over governorate of al-Wusta.

EXPECTED WINDS: Over most governorates of the sultanate winds will be northerly to northwesterly light to moderate becoming variable light at night along the coastal areas of Oman sea and southeasterly

ARIES You can adopt a fearless approach to the tasks that lie ahead. Others are impressed with the way you take in everything around you.

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (Route 36) Dept Destination Arrival Time Time 15:00 Quriyat 16:30 15:00 Sur 18:00 15:00 Jaalan 19:30 TO AL BURAIMI (Route 41) 06:30 Sohar 06:30 Buraimi 08:00 Buraimi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Buraimi 16.00 Sohar 16.00 Buraimi TO SINAW (Route 52) 17:30 Sinaw

Operating Days Daily Daily Daily

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (Route 36) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 05:30 Sur 06:45 Daily 05:30 Quriyat 08:30 Daily 05:30 Ruwi 10:00 Daily

08:50 11:00 14:30 15:45 17:40 18.35 20:20

Daily Daily Daily via Ibri Daily Daily Daily Daily

20:50

Daily

TO AL BURAIMI (Route 41) 07:00 Sohar 07:00 Ruwi 13:30 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 17:00 Ruwi TO SINAW (Route 52) 07:00 Ruwi

To Yanqul (Route 54) 14:30 Nizwa 14:30 Yanqul

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (Route 54) 08:00 Nizwa 08:00 Al Araqi

10:20 12:30

TO SUR (Route 55) 07:30 Sur 14:30 Sur TO FAHUD - YIBAL (Route 62) 06:30 Fahud 06:30 Yibal

08:55 11:40 20:20 14:55 17:40 19:20 22:15

Daily Daily Daily via Ibri Daily Daily Daily Daily

10:25

Daily

To Yanqul (Route 54) 06:00 Nizwa 06:00 Ruwi

08:40 11:00

Daily Daily

Daily Daily

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (Route 54) 15:40 Nizwa 15:40 Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

12:00 18:45

Daily Daily

TO SUR (Route 55) 06:00 Ruwi 14:30 Ruwi

10:45 19:00

Daily Daily

10:30 11:15

Daily Daily

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (Route 62) 12:30 Fahud 12:30 Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (Route 100) 07:00 Salalah 20:00 10:00 Marmul 20:30 10:00 Salalah 23:30 19:00 Salalah 07:40

Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (Route 100) 07:00 Ruwi 19:50 10:00 Marmul 13:15 10:00 Ruwi 22:30 19:00 Ruwi 07:30

Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO MARMUL (Route 101) 06:00 Marmul

Daily

TO MARMUL (Route 101) 06:00 Marmul

16:30

Daily

Daily

DUBAI TO SALALAH (Route 102) 15:00 Salalah 07:00

Daily

16:50

SALALAH TO DUBAI (Route 102) 15:00 Dubai 07:00 TO DUBAI (Route 201) 06:00 Sohar 06:00 Dubai 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Dubai 15:00 Sohar 15:00 Dubai

08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (Route 204) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 07:00 Fujairah 11.45 Daily 07:00 Sharjah 13.30 Daily 07:00 Dubai 14.00 Daily

TO DUBAI (Route 201) 07:30 Sohar 07:30 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Ruwi 15:30 Sohar 15:30 Ruwi

10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (Route 204) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 16:00 Sharjah 16:30 Daily 16.00 Fujairah 18.15 Daily 16.00 Ruwi 23.00 Daily

LISTINGS

PHARMACIES Round the clock Al Hashar Pharmacy, Ruwi: 24783334; Appolo Medical Centre, Hamriya: 24782666; Muscat Pharmacy, Ruwi: 24702542, Salalah: 23291635; Atlas Pharmacy, Ghubra: 24503585 Muscat Region Apollo, Al Hamriya. Tel: 24787766 Muscat, A Seeb Market. Tel: 24421691 Muscat, Al Khuwair. Tel: 24485740 Muscat, Al Hail South. Tel: 24537080 Dhofar Region Muscat, Al Nahdha Road, Salalah.

Tel: 23291635 HOSPITALS Al Amal Medical & Health Care Centre: 24485052 Atlas Hospital: Ruwi: 24811743/ Ghubra: 24504000 Al Musafir Specialised Medical Clinic: 24706453 Hatat Polyclinic LLC, Ruwi: 24563641, Azaiba: 24499269, Sohar: 2683006 Al Raffah Hospital: 24618900/1/2 Al Massaraat Clinic & Laboratory: 24566435 Al Makook Medical Coordinance Centre: 24499434 Apollo Medical Centre, Hamriya: 24787766, 24787780 Capital Polyclinic: 24707549 Badr Al Samaa Polyclinic, Ruwi: 24799760/1/2 Capital Clinic, Seeb: 24420740 Ceregem National Raak: 24485633 Dr Harub’s Clinic: 24563217 Elixir Health Centre: 24565802 Emirates Medical Centre: 24604540 1st Chiropractic Centre: 24472274 Hamdan Hospital: 23212340 International Medical Centre LLC: 24794501/2/3/4/5 Kims Oman Hospital: 24760100

24 Hrs Emergency: 24760123 Lama Polyclinic, Sohar: 26751128, MBD: 24799077, Al Khuwair: 24478818 Magrabi Eye and Ear Hospital: 24568870 Muscat Private Hospital: 24583600 Welcare Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, Al Khuwair: 24477666 Al-Hayat Polyclinc LLC: 22004000 ROYAL OMAN POLICE Emergencies and inquiries: 9999 General Directorate of Passport and Residence: 24569603 Directorate General of Customs: 24521109 Traffic violations inquiries: 24510228 Public Relations Admin: 24560099 ACCOMMODATION Al Bahjah Hotel: 24424400 Al Bustan Palace: 24764000 Al Khuwair Hotel Apartments: 24478171 Al Madina Holiday Inn: 24596400 Al Maha International Hotel: 24494949 Al Fanar Hotel: 24712385 Al Falaj Hotel: 24702311 Al Qurum Resort: 24605945 Azaiba Hotel Apartments: 24490979 Beach Hotel: 24696601 Bowshar Hotel: 24491105 Coral Hotel Muscat: 24692121 Crowne Plaza Muscat: 24660660 Crystal Suites: 24826100 Golden Tulip Seeb: 24510300 Grand Hyatt Muscat: 24641234 Haffa House Hotel: 24707207 Hotel Muscat Holiday: 24487123 InterContinental Muscat: 24680000 Majan Continental Hotel: 24592900 Marina Hotel: 24711711 Midan Hotel Suites: 24499565 Mina Hotel: 24711828 Muttrah Hotel: 24798401

Nuzha Hotel Apartments: 24789199 Oman Dive Centre: 24824240 Park Inn: 24507888 Qurum Beach House Hotel: 24564070 Radisson Blu Hotel: 24487777 Ramee Dream Resort Seeb: 24453399 Ramee Guestline Hotel: 24564443 Ruwi Hotel: 24704244 Safeer Hotel Suites: 24691200 Sheraton Oman Hotel: 24772772 Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa: 24776666 The Chedi Muscat: 24524400 The Treasurebox Muscat Hotel: 24502570 AIRLINE OFFICES Muscat Airport Flight information (24 hours): 24519456/24519223 Aeroflot: 24704455, Air Arabia: 24700828, Air France: 24562153, Air India: 24799801, Air New Zealand: 24700732, Biman Bangladesh Airlines: 24701128, British Airways: 24568777, Cathay Pacific: 24789818, Egypt Air: 24794113, Emirates Air: 24404400, Ethiopian Airlines: 24660313, Gulf Air: 80072424, Indian: 24791914, Iran Air: 24787423, Japan Airlines: 24704455, Jazeera Airways: 23294848, Jet Airways: 24787248, Kenya Airways: 24660300, KML Royal Dutch Airlines: 24566737, Kuwait Airways: 24701262, LOT Polish Airlines: 24796387, Lufthansa: 24796692, Malaysian Airlines: 24560796, Middle East Airlines: 24796680, Oman Air: 24531111, Pakistan International Airlines: 24792471, Qatar Airways: 24771900, Qantas: 24559941, Royal Jordanian: 24796693, Saudi Arabian Airlines: 24789485, Singapore Airlines: 24791233, Shaheen Air: 24816565, SriLankan Airlines:

24784545, Swiss International Airlines: 24796692, Thai Airways: 24705934, Turkish Airlines: 24703033 MUSEUMS Bait Al Baranda: Corniche (seafront opp fish market), Open from Saturday to Thursday 9am to 1pm and 4 to 6pm Natural History Museum: Al Khuwair, Tel: 24604957, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm; Thursday: 9am to 1pm Museum of Omani Heritage: (former Omani Museum), Madinat Al Alam, Sat-Wed 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday 9am to 1pm, Tel: 24600946 Armed Forces Museum: Bait Al Falaj, Tel: 24312651, Open from Sat to Wed: 8am to 1:30pm; Thurs 9-12pm and 3-6pm; Fri 9-11am and 3-6pm. Al Hoota Caves 24498258; Turtle Beach 96550606/96550707 Children’s Science Museum: Shatti Al Qurum, Tel: 24605368, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday: 9am to 1pm Oman-French Museum: near Muscat Police Station, Tel: 24736613, Open from Sat to Wed: 8am to 1:30pm, Thurs: 9am to 1pm Bait Al Zubair, Muscat: Tel: 24736688, Al Saidiya St., Muscat museum@baitalzubairmuseum.com Open from Sat to Thurs: 9:30am to 6pm.

National Museum Ruwi: Tel: 24701289, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday: 9am to 1pm Sohar Fort Museum: Tel: 26844758, Open from Saturday to Wed: 8 to 1:30pm Thurs: 9am to 1pm Muscat Gate Museum: at Al Bahri Road, Muscat open from Sat to Wed 8am to 2pm

SUNDAY

MONDAY FLT NO

ARRIVALS FROM

CAIRO 0005 RIYADH 0005 JEDDAH 0005 KUWAIT 0010 BANGKOK 0015 SALALAH 0030 SALALAH 0125 SIALKOT 0200 KARACHI 0210 ISTANBUL-BAHRAIN 0255 DOHA 0345 ADDIS ABABA 0350 DUBAI 0355 BAHRAIN 0405 ABU DHABI 0405 DUBAI 0415 FRANKFURT 0630 LUXORE 0635 BAHRAIN 0640 JEDDAH 0645 ABU DHABI 0650 SALALAH 0655 RIYADH 0700 KARACHI 0700 MALPENSA 0720 ZURICH 0720 DAMMAM 0725 JEDDAH 0730 KUWAIT 0735 DOHA 0735 PARIS 0800 DUBAI 0805 SOHAR 0815 BOMBAY 0815 LONDON HEATHROW 0820 DUBAI 0850 JAIPUR 0855 LAHORE 0900 SHARJAH 0915 LAHORE 0920 HYDERABAD 0920 DELHI 0920 COCHIN 0930 TRIVANDRUM 0940 MADRAS 0940 DUBAI 0940 BANGALORE 1000 DOHA 1010 ABU DHABI 1015 TRIVANDRUM 1020 DUQUM OMAN 1045 MUKHAIZNA 1045 DUBAI 1110 KHASAB 1115 RAS AL KHAIMA 1120 DUBAI 1200 MALE 1205 CALICUT 1210 SALALAH 1215 BANGKOK 1305 DUBAI 1330 SALALAH 1445 KHASAB 1445 KHASAB 1445 ABU DHABI 1530 DUBAI 1555 DOHA 1600 ISLAM ABBAD 1625 BOMBAY 1710 CALICUT 1720 DUBAI 1730 DELHI 1730 LUCKNOW 1735 HYDERABAD 1740 DOHA 1745 DUBAI 1750 BAHRAIN 1810 MUKHAIZNA 1845 KUALA LUMPUR 1910 SHARJAH 1915 MADRAS 1920 KUWAIT 1925 BANGKOK-KARACHI 1935 TEHRAN 1940 DUBAI 1945 KATHMANDU 2010 DUBAI 2030 JAKARTA 2055 MUNICH 2105 MALE 2110 AMSTERDAM-DOHA 2120 DELHI 2125 DUBAI 2125 BOMBAY 2130 COLOMBO 2140 CHITTAGONG 2140 DUBAI 2145 MADRAS 2200 AMMAN 2205 DOHA 2210 2225 COLOMBO BAHRAIN 2240 MEDINA 2250 MEDINA 2250 ABU DHABI 2250 KARACHI 2255 LONDON HEATHROW-ABU DHABI 2255 SALALAH 2305 AHMEDABAD-BOMBAY 2310 DOHA 2315 ZURICH-DUBAI 2320 BOMBAY 2325 FRANKFURT-ABU DHABI 2330 DUBAI 2335 DUBAI 2335 BAHRAIN 2340 DAMMAM 2350 DAMMAM 2350 ZANZIBAR-DARESSLAM 2355

WY682 WY406 WY636 WY648 WY816 WY910 BG021 4H583 WY3916 PK229 TK776 QR1132 EK866 EY384 GF560 FZ041 WY114 WY658 WY638 WY902 WY154 WY144 WY674 WY668 WY644 WY602 WY202 WY102 FZ043 WY272 G9114 WY342 WY242 WY236 WY346 WY226 WY212 EK862 WY252 WY282 QR1128 EY382 9W530 WY604 WY844 WY918 GF562 WY372 FZ037 WY384 IX337 WY902 PA450 WY716 WY3302 WY324 WY818 WY606 WY906 WY920 WY632 FZ045 WY204 WY292 WY3304 WY610 WY246 WY264 WY284 WY232 WY664 QR1126 EK864 WY3922 GF564 WY822 WY694 WY684 G9116 WY254 WY646 WY434 FZ047 WY338 WY614 WY848 WY124 AI977 4H561 KL441 WY624 AI973 6.00E+81 WY312 WY914 9W534 FZ049 AI907 WY414 QR1134 WY928 GF566 BA073 EY388 WY326 SG061 WY908 AI985 WY662 LX242 9W540 LH618 WY612 WY654 WY696

RIYADH 0005 CAIRO 0005 ABU DHABI 0005 KUWAIT 0010 BANGKOK 0015 SALALAH 0030 DACCA-CHITTAGONG 0100 DACCA 0145 SALALAH 0205 LAHORE 0215 ISTANBUL-BAHRAIN 0255 DOHA 0345 DUBAI 0355 ABU DHABI 0405 BAHRAIN 0405 DUBAI 0415 FRANKFURT 0610 BAHRAIN 0640 ABU DHABI 0650 SALALAH 0655 ZURICH 0720 MALPENSA 0720 JEDDAH 0730 DOHA 0735 KUWAIT 0735 DUBAI 0805 BOMBAY 0815 LONDON HEATHROW 0820 DUBAI 0850 JAIPUR 0855 SHARJAH 0915 LAHORE 0920 DELHI 0920 HYDERABAD 0920 ISLAM ABBAD 0930 COCHIN 0930 TRIVANDRUM 0940 DUBAI 0940 MADRAS 0940 BANGALORE 1000 DOHA 1010 ABU DHABI 1015 TRIVANDRUM 1035 DUBAI 1110 MANILA 1110 KHASAB 1115 BAHRAIN 1130 COLOMBO 1140 DUBAI 1200 MALE 1205 CALICUT 1210 SALALAH 1215 LAHORE 1215 ZANZIBAR 1225 MUKHAIZNA 1230 KARACHI 1230 BANGKOK 1305 DUBAI 1330 SALALAH 1445 KHASAB 1445 ABU DHABI 1530 DUBAI 1555 BOMBAY 1710 CALICUT 1720 MUKHAIZNA 1730 DUBAI 1730 DELHI 1730 LUCKNOW 1735 BANGALORE 1740 HYDERABAD 1740 DOHA 1745 DOHA 1745 DUBAI 1750 DUQUM OMAN 1755 BAHRAIN 1810 KUALA LUMPUR 1910 DAMMAM 1910 RIYADH 1910 SHARJAH 1915 MADRAS 1920 KUWAIT 1925 TEHRAN 1940 DUBAI 1945 KATHMANDU 2010 DUBAI 2030 JAKARTA 2055 MUNICH 2105 BANGALORE-HYDERABAD 2105 DACCA 2115 AMSTERDAM-DOHA 2120 DUBAI 2125 DELHI 2125 BOMBAY 2130 CHITTAGONG 2140 SALALAH 2140 COCHIN 2140 DUBAI 2145 MADRAS 2200 AMMAN 2205 DOHA 2210 SALALAH 2220 BAHRAIN 2240 LONDON HEATHROW-ABU DHABI 2250 ABU DHABI 2250 KARACHI 2255 AHMEDABAD 2300 SALALAH 2305 AHMEDABAD-BOMBAY 2310 DOHA 2315 ZURICH-DUBAI 2320 BOMBAY 2325 FRANKFURT-ABU DHABI 2330 DUBAI 2335 BAHRAIN 2340 DAMMAM 2350

FLT NO

DEPARTURES TO

FLT NO

DEPARTURES TO

AI986 LX243 9W539 BA072 LH619 WY685 WY211 WY251 WY201 WY225 WY235 WY341 WY281 WY601 WY241 WY271 WY643 WY637 WY821 WY657 WY123 WY667 WY323 WY691 WY383 WY901 WY847 PK260 NL772 TK777 ET625 EK867 FZ042 QR1133 EY385 WY3931 WY3301 WY3921 4H562 GF561 WY903 WY603 CV732 WY917 WY291 WY263 WY347 FZ044 WY385 WY231 WY245 WY843 G9115 WY815 NL769 WY905 WY203 WY605 WY373 WY253 WY337 WY717 EK863 WY311 EY383 IX554 QR1129 WY3303 WY919 WY663 G9842 WY631 IX350 FZ038 WY433 WY113 WY101 WY413 WY645 WY153 WY143 WY927 WY609 WY405 WY3305 WY671 WY675 WY613 FZ046 WY913 WY623 WY325 QR1127 WY681 WY907 GF565 WY647 WY661 EK865 WY695 G9117 WY909 WY611 WY635 FZ048 TG508 WY915 FZ050 KL442 WY817 6.00E+82 AI908 AI974 QR1135 GF567 UL206 EY381

BOMBAY 0005 DUBAI-ZURICH 0020 BOMBAY 0025 ABU DHABI-LONDON HEATHROW 0025 ABU DHABI-FRANKFURT 0050 RIYADH 0105 TRIVANDRUM 0110 MADRAS 0110 BOMBAY 0120 COCHIN 0125 HYDERABAD 0135 LAHORE 0150 BANGALORE 0150 DUBAI 0150 DELHI 0155 JAIPUR 0200 KUWAIT 0200 ABU DHABI 0205 KUALA LUMPUR 0205 BAHRAIN 0205 MUNICH 0210 DOHA 0225 KARACHI 0225 DAMMAM 0235 MALE 0235 SALALAH 0240 JAKARTA 0245 PESHAWAR 0310 PESHAWAR 0330 BAHRAIN-ISTANBUL 0350 ADDIS ABABA 0450 DUBAI 0455 DUBAI 0510 DOHA 0520 ABU DHABI 0525 SOHAR 0600 MUKHAIZNA 0715 DUQUM OMAN 0745 DACCA 0745 BAHRAIN 0745 SALALAH 0800 DUBAI 0800 HONG KONG 0805 KHASAB 0815 CALICUT 0920 LUCKNOW 0920 ISLAM ABBAD 0920 DUBAI 0935 MALE 0940 HYDERABAD 0955 DELHI 0955 MANILA 1000 SHARJAH 1005 BANGKOK 1010 LAHORE 1030 SALALAH 1030 BOMBAY 1030 DUBAI 1030 COLOMBO 1040 MADRAS 1040 KATHMANDU 1040 ZANZIBAR-DARESSLAM 1045 DUBAI 1055 CHITTAGONG 1100 ABU DHABI 1105 TRIVANDRUM 1110 DOHA 1115 MUKHAIZNA 1115 KHASAB 1145 DOHA 1145 RAS AL KHAIMA 1210 ABU DHABI 1220 CALICUT 1310 DUBAI 1315 TEHRAN 1330 FRANKFURT 1400 LONDON HEATHROW 1400 AMMAN 1405 KUWAIT 1405 ZURICH 1405 MALPENSA 1415 SALALAH 1415 DUBAI 1420 CAIRO 1430 MUKHAIZNA 1515 MEDINA 1535 JEDDAH 1630 DUBAI 1700 DUBAI 1700 SALALAH 1810 DUBAI 1820 KARACHI 1830 DOHA 1845 RIYADH 1845 SALALAH 1850 BAHRAIN 1855 KUWAIT 1900 DOHA 1900 DUBAI 1905 DAMMAM 1910 SHARJAH 2005 SALALAH 2015 DUBAI 2025 ABU DHABI 2040 DUBAI 2040 KARACHI-BANGKOK 2040 SALALAH 2110 DUBAI 2225 DOHA-AMSTERDAM 2230 BANGKOK 2235 BOMBAY 2245 MADRAS 2300 DELHI 2310 DOHA 2320 BAHRAIN 2325 COLOMBO 2335 ABU DHABI 2350

AI986 LX243 9W539 BA072 WY715 LH619 WY211 WY251 WY201 WY225 WY235 WY601 WY281 WY345 WY341 WY241 WY271 WY643 WY637 WY657 WY821 WY123 WY371 WY667 WY383 WY901 WY847 4H584 BG022 PK230 TK777 EK867 FZ042 QR1133 EY385 GF561 WY603 WY3301 WY903 WY323 WY917 WY263 WY291 FZ044 WY283 WY245 WY231 G9115 WY815 WY203 WY905 WY605 WY337 WY253 EK863 WY311 EY383 QR1129 9W533 WY919 GF563 WY631 IX350 FZ038 PA451 WY683 WY3303 WY433 WY663 WY113 WY101 WY645 WY413 WY153 WY143 WY131 WY609 WY405 WY693 WY3921 WY675 WY613 FZ046 WY913 WY623 WY325 QR1127 WY681 WY907 GF565 WY647 WY661 EK865 WY695 WY653 WY653 G9117 WY909 WY611 FZ048 WY635 WY915 AI978 4H561 FZ050 KL442 WY817 9W529 WY411 6.00E+82 AI908 AI974 WY677 QR1135 GF567 WY673 EY381

BOMBAY 0005 DUBAI-ZURICH 0020 BOMBAY 0025 ABU DHABI-LONDON HEATHROW 0025 ZANZIBAR 0040 ABU DHABI-FRANKFURT 0050 TRIVANDRUM 0110 MADRAS 0110 BOMBAY 0120 COCHIN 0125 HYDERABAD 0135 DUBAI 0150 BANGALORE 0150 ISLAM ABBAD 0150 LAHORE 0150 DELHI 0155 JAIPUR 0200 KUWAIT 0200 ABU DHABI 0205 BAHRAIN 0205 KUALA LUMPUR 0205 MUNICH 0210 COLOMBO 0210 DOHA 0225 MALE 0235 SALALAH 0240 JAKARTA 0245 DACCA 0245 CHITTAGONG-DACCA 0250 LAHORE 0315 BAHRAIN-ISTANBUL 0350 DUBAI 0455 DUBAI 0510 DOHA 0520 ABU DHABI 0525 BAHRAIN 0745 DUBAI 0800 MUKHAIZNA 0800 SALALAH 0800 KARACHI 0800 KHASAB 0815 LUCKNOW 0920 CALICUT 0920 DUBAI 0935 BANGALORE 0940 DELHI 0955 HYDERABAD 0955 SHARJAH 1005 BANGKOK 1010 BOMBAY 1030 SALALAH 1030 DUBAI 1030 KATHMANDU 1040 MADRAS 1040 DUBAI 1055 CHITTAGONG 1100 ABU DHABI 1105 DOHA 1115 COCHIN 1135 KHASAB 1145 BAHRAIN 1215 ABU DHABI 1220 CALICUT 1310 DUBAI 1315 LAHORE 1315 RIYADH 1320 MUKHAIZNA 1330 TEHRAN 1330 DOHA 1330 FRANKFURT 1400 LONDON HEATHROW 1400 KUWAIT 1405 AMMAN 1405 ZURICH 1405 MALPENSA 1415 PARIS 1420 DUBAI 1420 CAIRO 1430 DAMMAM 1430 DUQUM OMAN 1455 JEDDAH 1630 DUBAI 1700 DUBAI 1700 SALALAH 1735 DUBAI 1820 KARACHI 1830 DOHA 1845 RIYADH 1845 SALALAH 1850 BAHRAIN 1855 KUWAIT 1900 DOHA 1900 DUBAI 1905 DAMMAM 1910 BAHRAIN 1920 BAHRAIN 1920 SHARJAH 2005 SALALAH 2015 DUBAI 2025 DUBAI 2040 ABU DHABI 2040 SALALAH 2110 HYDERABAD-BANGALORE 2200 JEDDAH 2215 DUBAI 2225 DOHA-AMSTERDAM 2230 BANGKOK 2235 TRIVANDRUM 2240 AMMAN 2240 BOMBAY 2245 MADRAS 2300 DELHI 2310 MEDINA 2310 DOHA 2320 BAHRAIN 2325 JEDDAH 2350 ABU DHABI 2350

FLT NO

ARRIVALS FROM

WY406 WY682 WY676 WY648 WY816 WY910 WY916 NL669 PK225 TK776 QR1132 ET624 EK866 GF560 EY384 FZ041 WY114 CV732 WY658 4H562 WY638 WY902 WY686 WY324 WY144 WY154 WY692 WY674 WY644 WY668 WY132 WY602 WY3932 WY202 WY102 FZ043 WY272 NL768 G9114 WY342 WY236 WY242 WY226 WY212 WY252 EK862 WY282 QR1128 EY382 IX549 WY3922 WY3302 WY604 WY918 G9841 FZ037 WY384 IX337 WY904 WY818 WY606 WY906 WY920 WY920 WY632 FZ045 WY664 WY348 WY204 WY292 WY610 WY246 WY264 WY232 QR1126 EK864 GF564 WY3306 WY822 G9116 WY254 WY646 TG507 WY434 FZ047 WY338 WY614 WY848 WY124 WY386 KL441 AI973 WY624 6.00E+81 WY374 WY312 FZ049 AI907 WY414 QR1134 UL205 GF566 WY672 WY672 EY388 WY326 BA073 WY908 AI985 WY662 LX242 9W540 LH618 WY612 WY612 WY654 WY696 WY696 WY717

ETA

ETD

ETA

ETD

S U N DAY, MAR C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

C11

ENTERTAINMENT CINEMA SCHEDULE

BAHJA CINEMA Get Hard (2D) (Comedy) (15+) Cast: Will Ferrell, Kevin Hart, Alison 1:45, 5:45, 9:45 pm Home (2D) (Animation) (PG) 3:45 pm Home (3D) (Animation) (PG) 2:00, 5:30 pm Ex-Machina (2D) (Drama/Sci fi) (15+) Cast: Alicia Vikander, Domhnall Gleeson 3:50, 7:45, 9:45 pm Theeb (2D) (Adventure/Drama) (15+) Cast: Jacir Eid Al-Hwietat, Jack Fox 6:00, 7:50 pm Clown (2D) (Drama I Horror) (18+) Cast: Eli Roth, Peter Stormare, Laura 4:00, 11:45 pm A Little Chaos (2D) (Comedy) (PG12) Cast: Kate Winslet, Alan Rickman, 7:15 pm The Lovers (2D) (Action) (12+) Cast: Josh Hartnett, Tamsin Egerton 9:30 pm Insurgent (3D) (Adventure I Sci Fi) (PG12) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, 11:45 pm Insurgent (2D) (Adventure) (PG12) 1:45 pm The Gunman (2D) (Action) (15+) 11:30 pm

Insurgent (3D) (Sci-Fi) (PG12) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort 11:45 pm Cinderella (2D) (Adventure) (PG) Cast: Lily James, Hayley Atwell, Richard 3:30 pm Home (2D) (Animation) (PG)

NH 10 – Hindi (Suspense) (12+) 6.45 pm Cast: Anushka Sharma, Neil

10:30 AM Home (3D) (Animation) (PG) 2:15 & 4:00 pm Gold Class: 1:15 pm Ex Machina (Sci-fi/Drama) (15+) Cast: Alicia Vikander, Domhnall 12:15, 5:50 & 9:45 pm Gold Class: 7:15 & 11:15 pm Crazy Beautiful You (2D) (Action) (PG12) Cast: Daniel Padilla, Kathryn Bernardo 5:30 pm Get Hard (2D) (Comedy) (15+) Cast: Will Ferrell, Kevin Hart, Alison 7:45 & 9:45 pm Gold Class: 3:15 & 9:15 pm A Little Chaos (2D) (Comedy) (PG12) Cast: Kate Winslet, Alan Rickman 11:15 AM Clown (2D) (Horror) (18+) Cast: Eli Roth, Peter Stormare, Laura 1:30 & 11:45 pm Theeb (2D) (Adventure) (12+) 5:30 pm Gold Class: 7:45 pm

SCREEN 3 100 Days of Love – Malyalam (Romance) – PG Cast: Dulquer Salmaan, Nithya Menen 3.45, 6.45, 9.45 pm

Insurgent – 3D (PG12) (Adventure) 7:15, 11:30 pm The Gunman – 2D (15+) (Action) 11:45 pm Ex Machina– 2D (15+)(Drama) Cast: Alicia Vikander, Domhnall 3:45, 5:45, 9:45 pm Get Hard – 2D (15+) (Comedy) Cast: Will Ferrell, Kevin Hart, Alison 4:30, 7:45, 9:30 pm Home – 2D (PG) (Animation) 2 pm Home – 3D (PG) (Animation) 3:45, 5:30 pm Charlie Countryman – 2D (15+) (Comedy) Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Evan Rachel Wood, 3:00 pm Haz West El Balad – 2D (Drama) Cast: Elham Shahein, Horeya Farghaly, 5:00 pm Theeb – 2D (12+) (Adventure) Cast: Jacir Eid Al-Hwietat, Jack Fox 7:15 pm Valiyavan – 2D (Tamil) (Romance) Cast: Jai, Andrea Jeremiah 9:15 pm The Lovers – 2D (12+) (Action) Cast: Josh Hartnett, Tamsin Egerton, 2:30, 11:45 pm Clown – 2D (18+) (Drama |Horror) Cast: Eli Roth, Peter Stormare, Laura

SCREEN 1 NH 10 – Hindi (Suspense) (12+) Cast: Anushka Sharma , Neil Bhoopalam, Ravi Jhankal, Darshan Kumaar 3.30, 9.30 pm Valiyavan – Tamil (Action) PG Cast: Andrea Jeremiah, Jai, Bala Saravanan 6.30 pm SCREEN 2 Valiyavan – Tamil (Action) PG 3:45, 9:45 pm Cast: Andrea Jeremiah, Jai, Bala Saravanan

6:30, 11:30 pm 100 Days of Love – 2D (Malayalam) (TBC ) (Comedy | Romance) Cast: Nithya Menon, Sekhar Menon, Dulquer Salmaan 8:30 pm

The Lovers – 2D (12+) (Action) Cast: Josh Hartnett, Tamsin Egerton 5:45, 9:30 pm Theeb – 2D (12+) (Adventure) Cast: Jacir Eid Al-Hwietat, Jack Fox 7:15 pm Ex Machina – 2D (15+) (Drama) Cast: Alicia Vikander, Domhnall 3:30, 8:00, 11:45 pm Get Hard – 2D (15+) (Comedy) Cast: Will Ferrell, Kevin Hart, Alison 6:15, 7:45,10:00 pm Home – 3D (PG) (Animation) 4:00, 5:30 pm 100 Days of Love – 2D (PG) (Romance) Cast: Nithya Menon, Sekhar Menon, Dulquer Salmaan 9:00 pm The Gunman – 2D (15+) (Action) Cast: Javier Bardem, Sean Penn 11:45 pm Insurgent – 3D (PG12) Adventure, 4:00, 11:30 pm

Insurgent – 3D (PG12) Adventure, 6:30pm The Gunman (15+) (Action) Cast: Javier Bardem, Sean Penn 6:05pm Get Hard (Comedy) (15+)

8:40 pm Ex Machina (Drama | Sci-Fi) (15+) 4:15, 9:55 pm 100 Days of Love (Mal) (Romance) Cast: Nithya Menon, Sekhar Menon 10:30 pm (PG) Theeb (Arabic) (Adventure) (12+) Cast: Jacir Eid Al-Hwietat, Jack 8:10pm The Lovers (Action ) (12+) 11:45 pm Home (3D) (Animation) (PG) 4:45pm

Ex Machine (2D)(15+) (Sci-Fi) Cast: Alicia Vikander, Domhnall 2:00, 4:00, 9:45pm The Lovers (2D) (12+) (Action) Cast: Josh Hartnett, Tamsin Egerton 12:15, 9:30pm Insurgent (3D)(PG12) (Adventure) 11:45pm The Gunman (2D)(15+) (Action) 11:30pm A Little Chaos (2D)(PG12) (Comedy) 11:45AM Cinderella (2D)(PG) (Drama/Family) 4:00pm Get Hard (2D)(15+) (Comedy) 12:00, 5:30, 7:30pm Home (2D)(PG)(Animation) 10:15AM Home (3D)(PG)(Animation) 2:00, 3:45, 6:00pm Clown (2D) (18+) (Drama/Horror) 2:15, 11:15pm 100 Days of Love (2D) (PG) (Mal) 8:20pm (Comedy) Valiyavan (2D) (Tamil)( Action) 5:50pm Theeb (2D) (12+)(Arabic) 7:45pm

The Lovers (Action) (12+) Cast: Josh Hartnett, Tamsin Egerton 4.00, 8.00, 10.00 &11.55 pm CP No: 813 A Little Chaos (2D) (Comedy) (PG12) Cast: Kate Winslet, Alan Rickman 2:00 PM; CP No: 816 (12+) Has West El Balad (Arabic/ Drama) Cast: Elham Shahein, Zeina, Fathy Abdul Wahab 2.00 & 6.00 pm CP No: 817 (15+) Ex- Machina (Thriller/ Sci:Fic) Cast: Oscar Isac, Alicia Vikander, Domhnall Gleeson 6.00, 10.00 & 11.55 pm CP No: 815 (15+) Get Hard (Comedy) Cast: Will Farell, Kevin Hart, Alison Brie 4.00 & 8.00 p.m.

CP No: 814 (15+)

Film Information - 24540856 / Advance Booking - 24540855 Website: www.albahjacinemaoman.com

STARS CINEMA Film information 24791641 / 24786776 100 Days Of Love (Mal) (Comedy) Cast: Dulquer Salmaan, Nithya Menon 3:30, 6:30 & 9.30pm at Cinema Main Valiyavan (Tamil) (Action) Cast: Jai & Andrea Jeremiah 3:30. 6.30 & 9:30pm at Cinema -2 Fireman (Mal) Cast: Mammootty, Unni Mukandan 3:45, 6.45, 9.45pm at Cinema 3 Temper (Telugu) (Act) Cast: Jr Ntr, Kajal Agarwal 3:45pm Cinema-4 NH 10 (Hindi) (Act) Cast: Anushka Sharma, Deepti Naval 6:45 & 9:45 pm Cinema -4 Next Change: Komban ( Tamil) Nannbenda ( Tamil) and Detective Byomkesh Baksy ( Hindi)

For More Information 24789032, 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om

ACES ON BRIDGE

Mathematics helps on some deals

SUDOKU

9 6 8 2 9 4 1 3

8 7 3

6 7 2 3 8 6 5 2 9 4

4 1

5 1 4 5 1 7 3

8 3 4 7 9 2 6 5 1 7 1 2 4 6 5 8 3 9 9 6 5 1 3 8 4 2 7

6 4 8 3 5 1 9 7 2 5 2 7 6 4 9 3 1 8 1 9 3 2 8 7 5 6 4

MARMADUKE

CROSSWORD

B I G NAT E

50 51 52 53 54 55 56

Monsieur’s wine Surfing hub “— Lisa” John, in Aberdeen Boring Preside at tea Unduly

DOWN 1 Links org.

2 Tusked animal 3 Geologists’ concerns 4 Chewy roll 5 Eclipse, to an ancient 6 MGM workplace 7 Planets or moons 8 Shopping — 9 Pipe player of myth 10 Sorbet 11 Koppel of the news 17 Yup (hyph.)

19 “Casablanca” pianist 23 Written declaration under oath 24 Frosh’s digs 25 Luxury resorts

26 27 28 29 30 33 37 39

Far East cuisine Electric swimmers Sci. class Wind up King beater Angler’s basket It’s south of Eur. Trailer rental (hyph.)

40 Tornado finder

42 Weak, ineffectual person 43 What’s cooking 44 Ta-ta in Turin 45 Part of A.D. 46 Bean hull 47 Perfume label word 48 Canucks org.

49 Monkey haven

Answer to previous puzzle

ACROSS 1 Units of wt.

4 Jungle knife 8 Meat turner 12 “The Bells” poet 13 Romance, to Pedro 14 Act worried 15 Ramble around 16 Fall for a scam (2 wds.)

18 Cropped up 20 Yon maiden 21 Bad prefix 22 Coin-toss word 26 Swarm with 28 Gentleman friend 31 Vain dude 32 Clucker 33 Tighten a saddle 34 Monastery dweller 35 Elev.

36 Grabbed a cab 37 Prepares to fire a weapon 38 Point of contention 40 P.O. service 41 Wield an ax 43 Musical rattle 46 Put under a disadvantage

DARSHIT MURUGAN March 29, 2014

SAFA NOUREEN March 29, 2013

AYREEN FAIZ

March 29, 2013

2 8 9 5 7 3 1 4 6 3 7 6 8 1 4 2 9 5 4 5 1 9 2 6 7 8 3

Previous puzzle Solution

VANNEVAR Bush, an engineer who, inter alia, founded Raytheon, said, “If scientific reasoning were limited to the logical processes of arithmetic, we should not get very far in our understanding of the physical world. One might as well attempt to grasp the game of poker entirely by the use of the mathematics of probability.” Or bridge.

Experts remember the bridge odds that arise on a regular basis.

Knowledge of two of the more common ones would have helped declarer in this deal.

How should South have planned the play in four spades? West led the heart queen. East overtook with his king and shifted to a trump.

South started with nine top tricks: six spades, one diamond and two clubs. His first thought was to ruff his third heart in the dummy, but East’s defence had killed that plan. Declarer’s second idea did not work either. He drew trumps, played a club to dummy’s ace, and returned a club to his jack.

However, the finesse lost, and the defenders cashed two more heart tricks to defeat the contract.

The winning line was to duck (lose) a club at trick three. Now the defenders would have been powerless. They could not have done better than to cash a second heart trick and play another trump.

But then South would have drawn trumps, cashed his club king (the honour from the shorter side first), overtaken the club jack with dummy’s ace, and discarded his last heart on the club six.

This line requires a 3-2 club break, which is 67.8 per cent a priori, much better than a 50 per cent finesse. The mathematics have spoken.

Phillip Alder

WITH LOVE

2

3 6 5

6

HOW TO PLAY Fill the empty cells with the numbers 1 to 9, so that each number appears once in each row, column and area.

— Seven Galaxies

BORN LOSER

Send us a colour photograph of the child (below 16 years) whose birthday you are celebrating, along with his/her full name, date of birth, address, telephone number and parents’/your name to Times of Oman, With Love, PO Box 770, PC 112, Ruwi or through e-mail to extra@timesofoman.com

KIDSPOT

H E A LT H C A P S U L E

C12

SU N DAY, MARCH 29, 2015

EXTRA Sight in darkness

Night vision eye drops allow vision of up to 50m in darkness.

The eye drops were created by a team of independent Californian biohackers

I

t might sound like something straight out of Q’s laboratory or the latest Marvel film but a group of scientists in California have successfully created eye drops that temporarily enable night vision.

Science for the Masses, an independent “citizen science” organisation that operates from the city of Tehacapi, theorised that Chlorin e6 (Ce6), a natural molecule that can be created from algae and other green plants, could enhance eyesight in dark environments.

The molecule is found in some deep sea fish, forms the basis of some cancer therapies and has been previously prescribed intravenously for night blindness.

The average torch will allow you to see around 10 metres ahead of you Jeff Tibbets, the lab’s medical officer, said: “There are a fair

amount of papers talking about having injected it in models like rats and it’s been used intravenously since the 60s as treatments for different cancers. After doing the research, you have to take the next step.”

The next step was to moisten the eyes of biochemical researcher and willing guinea pig Gabriel Licina’s eyes with 50 microlitres of Ce6.

Instantaneous The effect was apparently almost instantaneous and, after an hour, he was able to distinguish shapes from 10 metres away in the dark and soon at even greater distances.

“We had people go stand in the woods,” Licina said, “At 50 metres, I could figure who they were, even if they were standing up against a tree.”

The control group without Ce6 were only able to pick out the objects a third of the time,

while Licina’s success was 100 per cent.

The effect of the chemical only lasted for a few hours and the test subject’s eyesight returned to normal the next day.

The organisation has released a paper that detailed the experiment in their website.

It says that more research will need to be conducted to measure the actual amount of electrical stimulation increase in the eye whilst the long term effects of the procedure will require further investigation.

Tibbets says that this success is perfect demonstration of the work that his organisation conducts: “For us, it comes down to pursuing things that are doable but won’t be pursued by major corporations. There are rules to be followed and don’t go crazy, but science isn’t a mystical language that only a few elite people can speak.”

-Jamie Campbell/The Independent

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SECTION

CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

RENT

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VACANCY

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CARGO

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S U N DAY, M A R C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

FOR RENT

OFFICES FOR RENT Premium offices to let a very good location on the main road very close to Zakher Mall, Al Khawiar. Business Center has offices with sizes of 50m2, 110m2, 180m2, 207m2, 230m2, 437m2.

Showroom also available at Business Center, Area 500m2 with central A/c.

Offices with Central Air-conditions, Security System with CCTV cameras, and Security presence in the building.

Contact: 97377355 / 97307476, Email id: aaleem@ggcoman.com

1bedroom, 2 bedroom + showroom, 18 November road Al Azaiba.

Contact 99565364 / 99617786 Shop available at Ruwi 2 shutters.

Contact 99345044

2BHK with split /AC in W.K behind Sanaa furnishing.

Contact 96708000

2BHK at Honda Road Ruwi. Contact 99224748 / 99332297 Looking for a cold room for rental.

Contact 99100146 Ghubra furnished room with attached bath, dish, internet, available for Executive person.

Contact 96117178 Printing press for lease.

Contact 97842797 Spacious villa, 2 floors with swimming pool garden, garage, servant room, 3 bedrooms with seaside view, three lounges, dining room, 5 bath rooms in Qurum area rent R.O 1500/per month, 1 yr advance. Contact 99335594 / 95501858 Villa for rent 4 rooms, 3 toilets behind Kuwait Mosque, Wadi Kabeer.

Contact 92925173 Villa in Bosher behind Dolphin, 5 BHK hall living room with split A/C RO 650/- family only.

Contact 92479515 Flat Al Ghubra South first floor, 3BHK hall, living room split a/c for family only 500/-.

Contact 92479515 Flat Al Azaiba ground floor 4BHK living room split a/c for family only parking 550/-R.O. Contact 92479515 Flats shops and store for rent in MBD area and Honda road. Contact 92433127/ 97293708/ 95150632 Flat for rent in Wadi Kabir near Lulu 4BHK. Contact 97007934 / 92629232 Commercial Villa in Al Khuwair with Private Parking’s,7 Rooms Hall and Reception and Kitchen Contact 95202430

2BHK in Al Ghubra, near Indian School. Contact 96708000 Industrial /commercial shops at Wadi Kabir 4 x 5.6 x 4.6 MTR height.

Showroom with mezzanine & office at Al Noor Street near Switz bakery & Al Masa hall corner building all on roads & parkings in front of shops & show room. Contact 99065900 or 99354975 One BHK flat for rent in Ghobra with attach and common bathroom. For Indian family.

Contact - 92322096 300 Sq mts available in Wadi Kabir suitable for warehouse or workshop.

Contact 96001855 Brand new warehouses - 3500sqm (2800 sqm built-up area) at Rusayl Industrial area adjacent to Amiantit Oman. Contact 99202278/ 94652485/ 99273774 Brand new warehouses – 750 sqm (500 sqm builtup area) at Wadi Kabir Sanaya warehouses are provided Warehouses with extract fans, ceiling fans, light fittings & provision for ACs apartments. Contact 99202278/ 94652485/ 99273774 2BHK with 5 split AC units in Ghubra near Al Maha Hotel & Indian School. Contact 99202278/ 94652485/ 99273774 1&2 BHK with split AC units, near Al Nahda Towers/ Vachas Hypermarket Azaiba. Contact 99202278/ 94652485/ 99273774 Studios starting from 160 in Qurum near Mars supermarket. Contact 96755180, 96755181 Al Ghubra small house for rent 160/-. Contact 95032152

We have 2BHK flats in Ghubra, Ghala, Boushar Azaiba & Qurum, Mabela very good price & locations.

Contact 93782735 / 99208033 Single room for rent at Al Khuwair area with attach bathroom for Executive bachelor / single family. Contact 93941622 / 93835869 Spacious 2 BR flat in MBD. Contact 99713489 Warehouse for rent in Al Misfah Indl. area near Oman cement 1200 sq mtr to 3000 sq mtr.

Contact 99441688 2Bed room flat at Madinat Sultan Qaboos, office space - 2/3 bedroom type at Qurum. Contact 24566217/ 24564686

We have 2BHK flats in Ghala with large sitting hall & 3 toilets new building main road. Contact 93782735/ 99208033

Villa for rent with 4 bedroom at Al Khodh, Rent 750/-RO.#92888115

We have 150 sqm office in Ghubra main road prime location Already Glass partition done, 2 toilets and pantry available. Contact 93782735 / 99208033

2 BHK flat in Al Falaj Hotel Area (Ruwi) Sharing Accomadation in Ruwi & Al Khuwair 2 & 3 Bhk flat in Al Khuwair 1 BHK fully furnish in Madina Qaboos. Contact: 99792181

Flat for rent in Wadi Al Kabir, 2 rooms & 3 toilets next to Platinum Gym. Contact 99210008 1,000 sq mtrs industrial land in Misfah Industrial area near to Khanco.

OMR 1,500 Monthly. Electricity and boundary wall will be provided.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Flat 4 rent south Al Mabelah.

Contact 95331177 / 95230355 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

Flat at Darsait. Contact 99326879

New building near the Bousher Al Misfah high way, with showroom, offices, and shops. Great for banks, medical clinics and companies 95202430 Villas & flats at Ansab.

Contact 98458542 Beautiful office space available in Ruwi MBD area only on 2/- OMR per sqm. Contact 95122188 / 96441499 1000 sq mtrs industrial land for rent in Ghala suitable for Ware house workshop. #24700120 / 925

2BHK flat for rent Wadi Kabir near Kuwaiti Mosque. Contact 97007939 / 92629232

Spacious 2 BHK flats in Ruwi MBD area only on 350/- OMR. Contact – 95122188 / 96441499

Flat Wadi AL Kabeer, 2BHK, sitting room, 3 bathroom balcony split /AC 300/- R.O Contact 99324402

If require flats for rent in Wadi Kabir please send messages through Whatsapp or call – 99376454 Furnished room available on Seeb share with small family for couple working ladies.

Contact 96996938

2 BHK flats Muttrah near Oman House. Contact 97007934 / 92629232

Brand new deluxe flats located near Seeb flyover on the right band side of the main road coming from the Seeb palace round about, 2 bedrooms family, hall, kitchen, 3 toilets with split unit ACs. Contact 97755586

2 bedroom flat in Al Ghubra near Oman oil 18 November Street. OMR 330. Monthly. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

1 Bedroom attached toilet Al Khuwair area only for ladies or husband and wife without children. Contact 9:00 pm to 7:00 am 95765719

3BR top class fitting flat , ideal for top Executives Mumtaz area, Ruwi.

Contact 91287824

85 SQM shops in Ruwi only on 350/- OMR. Contact 95122188 / 96441499

Good quality apartment with 3 bedrooms in Al Khoudh, located between University road and Al Khoudh Commercial Street.

Contact 99319829 2 & 3 BHK Darsait School new building. Contact 99024730 2 BHK & studio flat at Darsait 1SM. Contact 99024730

FOR SALE Dental clinic for sale in Seeb area.

Contact 96903341 Land in Mawaleh for sale.

Contact 91155779 Industrial lands in (Mabella & Misfa) for (sale & rent).

Contact 91155779 Farms in Barka main road for sale.

Contact 91155779 Commercial lands for sale in Al Ghubra /Mabella. Contact 91155779 New dental chair & instruments for sale. Contact 92816015 Treadmill motorized in good running condition for sale.

Contact 99358025 1BHK C.B.D. Contact 99024730 For sale work shop carpenter with 4 clearances in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 99345137 Urgent sale man tipper, Tata Novus prime mover with trailer, Tata Daewoo tipper, Tata water tanker, Tata Hyup, Roller, Bitili, roller double drum bitili, PTR Roller Bitili, Titan paver, Volvo, back hoeloader, SDLG wheel loader. Contact 92964673 Building material shop for sale in Al Hail. Contact 98003111

Flats/villas owned by ROP pension fund available for rent in Muscat.

Contact 99349526

Commercial registration with excellent name Grade A for business software for sale. Contact 92959251

Prim location, nice finishing villa for RENT. 2 big bedrooms . Main large sitting room. Small maid room. Kitchen and 3 bathrooms.

At Alkhuwair. near Holiday Inn & Oman Club. # 99426662, PDC only. For families & college girls.

Construction building material / equipment for sale on urgent basis.

Contact 95526871 Building material shop with material for sale in Al Musannah.

Contact 98053324

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DAILY GUIDE

M.V. FOR SALE

Toyota Fortuner Safari 2011July, 92000KM, Professor driven, OMR9000. Contact 98813910 Renault Duster (2013) for immediate sale only 15,200 kilometers driven (OMR 4300/-) Expat leaving.

Contact 93083453 Car sale BMW 740 Li & Model 2008 KM 124181, Company maintenance.

Single person used (GM).

Contact 97989094

ACC. AVAILABLE

FOR SALE

2 spacious rooms with balcony, separate toilet, kitchen sharing near Rex Road Ruwi. Contact: 92183404

3 Bedrooms, with spacious hall & 3 bathrooms near ism, Darsait from 1st april 2015. Gsm 94288861

Single room with attached toilet in AL Khuwair. Contact 94617422

Furnished Sharing accommodation available for executive bachlor at Muthrah near OIFC. Pls contact. 91398353.

Room available with kitchen near Al Shifa clinic at Rex Road for bachelor. Contact 99768952

2 residential Lands together, one 610 and the other 600 sq mtrs, in Al Haram on way to Barka. OMR 49 Thousand both. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Billiards and snooker table 1 no., hand football game table 1 no. with all accessories on (as is where is) basis. The items are in Sur Industrial area. Interested parties please contact - 31032015s@gmail.com 558 Sq mtrs residential land in Barka behind Lulu and near to school. OMR 32 Thousand.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Running beauty parlor for sale in Barka Souq with license & visa.

Contact 92168729 Brand new UK made wheel balancer for sale with accessories, contact 94052713, 99885638 2 Prime Movers Man 2008 with 40 ton petrol tank each working at the moment in Al Maha. Price OMR 35 Thousand each. Tel: 97000155 or 92688692 2 Prime Movers Man 2008 with 40 ton petrol tank each working at the moment in Al Maha. Price OMR 35 Thousand each. Tel: 97000155 or 92688692 Ready mix concrete for sale.

Contact 99054673 Land for sale residential commercial and residential and tourist and industrial, and hotels for sale in Muscat (Al Khuwair and the Qurum, and crushed stone, and Bowshar, and spite and Gala heights, and the heights of the airport) to deal with the buyer. Contact 99070093 Restaurant for sale well running with open area and good parking area. 3 new clearance also in Wadi Kabeer near Mars hyper market.

Contact 99656863

Independent rooms in Qurum / Al Hail. Contact 95529970 23,886 Sq Mtrs Agriculture land with water well in Al Salwa, Barka.

OMR 260 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 3 floor building in Muttrah behind Police. Generating income of OMR 18 Thousand annually. Neat and well maintained. Built on 197 sq mtrs land. 2 tailor shops on ground floor and 6 flats. OMR 207 Thousand.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Dental Clinic with license for sale in Sohar. Contact 92816015 Shop for sale at Ruwi. Contact 99103077

AVAILABLE Freelance HSE Advisor. Contact 93637030 Established Restaurant for rent with sponsorship. Contact 97628242 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

WANTED Clinic required, One Established new Clinic in Muscat, with Valid License & Clearance is required to purchase interested Parties can contact 91283188 or send your inquiries to mohamedsfarah@hotmail.com Looking for a contractor to build my house. If you wish to apply for the position, please feel free to contact the following number: 94488999

Bachelor Sharing Accommodation available in villa, rex road, ruwi.

Contact 94442157 Sharing accommodation at Wadi Kabir attached room & sharing kitchen. Contact 95882866 / 96575016 Furnished room for Executive bachelor at Ruwi. Contact 92435784 Available room for bachelor separate toilet behind Oman house R.O 50/-. Contact 97986621 Furnished room with attached bathroom for non-cooking bachelor in Ruwi RO 150/-. Contact 92478852 Room with separate bath available for non cooking Executive at Al Khuwair. Contact 99224185 2BR, 1BTR for Indian family ladies near Ruwi Church.Contact 99746379 Single room with furniture available behind Kamat Restaurant Al Khuwair. Contact 24125300 / 94158350 Studio flat MBD Ruwi.

Contact 95698714 Single room with separate bath at Rex Road, working lady preferred.

Contact 95423572 Single room attached bathroom with kitchen near Riyam park Muscat RO 70/-. Contact 95094028 1B/R available for bachelors in REX ROAD, Ruwi.

Contact 99889590 Furnished Room with attached bath for Indian Bachelor in Al Falaj area Ruwi & sharing room lady in Wadikabir. Call 95941515 Family sharing accommodation available in Al Khodh.

Contact 98292798

Dodge Nitro 4.0 ltr engine 2007 model 130000 kms, red colour, registration valid for one year. RO.2700/-.

Contact - 91251966 Toyota Camry white 2011 km -51000 R.O 4800/-.Contact 99561562 BMW 318i & model 2004 KM 180678, company maintenance.

Single person used (DY.GM) Contact 97989094 Yaris 1.5, 2008 fully automatic expat driven. Contact 92227165

MANPOWER

1 bedroom attached toilet in Al Khuwair bachelors/ family R.O 140/-. Contact 95154331 Single room available with A/C for non cooking executive bachelor at Hamriya R/abt. (on main road side, Opp. Apollo Hospital).

Contact 91673718, 98232567 Sharing family accommodation in Wadi Kabir. Contact 99335057 Gubrah furnished room, attached bath dish TV, WIFI, kitchen available for Executive single person, couple.

Contact 99658689 Room in CBD area for non cooking Executive bachelors free WIFI, Advance deposit.

Contact 95934642

ACC. WANTED

Canadian Manpower Co. Recruiting Construction, Hotel, Medical, Gas & Oil Staffs - 2 years contract, work visa, tickets, accommodation.

Free recruitment. Please send CV to margholdingoman@yahoo.com, www.margholdingimmigration.com, 93392630

NRI

Wanted a separate room near Lulu Darsait. Contact 92481082

Wanted a 2 bedroom flat in around Ruwi area. Gsm 99761216

BUYING/SELLING

Looking for purchase of Used Portable Compressor (350 CFM, 7 Bar Pressure) powered with Diesel run Generator.

Kindly Contact 99014686 or operation@khancogroup.com

LOST Efrata Gidey Betemariam has lost Ethiopian Passport No. EP 2502228. Finder please handover to ROP

MATRIMONIAL Jacobite boy, 28/175 fair, Diploma working in Oman M4 ID - 4003130.

Contact 99097785 / 93977526 Kerala Nair boy 40 year old divorcee, pharmacist in Oman, looking for suitable alliance from professionals.

Contact-93604151

Furnished accommodation wanted for April, May for Keralite family. Contact 99378397

Used household & office furniture and electronic items. Contact 99834373, 97102699

Available construction workers, hospital staff with Oman parametric, housemaids Indian, Uganda. Contact 9629417/98408488 Email: alkubratrading@gmail.com

2 Nos prime plots of 20cents each in Haripad town Alapuzha (Dist) Kerala for sales. Contact 98088064 / 0091944 6168866

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 We are looking for a Muslim Girl for our son interested parents or daughter May. Contact 97664009

Kerala Malankara Catholic girl 28/155 GNM, MOH Oman looking for suitable match from Muscat / Kerala (Pta dist) M4 ID 4002623.

Contact 96708960 / 95338210 Keralite Ezhava girl BSc Nurse wheatish Bharani Nakshatram 28 yrs, 160 cm working with MOH seeks suitable alliance from Keralite professionals in Muscat.

Contact 94273585 Keralite Syrian Christian Parents seeking alliance from any Syrian Christian Denominations Graduated working girls preferably in Oman or UAE for their son (MBA) 29/175born brought up in Muscat working in a reputed organization.

Contact 97226324 email: m4proposal@yahoo.com

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S U N DAY, M A R C H 2 9, 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

SITUATION WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Indian female M.Com Finance, DCA 3 years experience in Accounts / finance, knowledge in ERP & tally seeking suitable position in corporate finance / banking /consulting.

Contact 96953705 Email prapullasuvarna@gmail.com MBA (in HR & Finance) & BBA (in General Management) and 5+ years experience in Administration & Finance in Oman, looking for suitable opportunities.NOC available.

Contact: 93183137 Accountant B.Com MBA Indian male having 5 year G.C.C exp in similar field with valid Oman D/L & NOC available. Contact 91719385 Email: shinuyesodharan@gmail.com

ADVOCATE Law firm office at Shatti al Qurum looking for Indian legal advisor minimum 5 years experience in Oman . please Contact :99772277 sereen38@gmail.com

Indian male currently in Oman looking for a suitable placement experience in Accounts, Computer, AutoCAD , 3D studio Max, DTP software’s, Office works.

Contact 98788518, Email: karunakaranvimal@gmail.com

CATERING Wanted cook / Tandoor /Shawarma / maker. Contact 97939688 Experience cook for Omani family 1Nos. Contact 99228046 Email: oman518@gmail.com

DRAFTSMAN Architectural Draftsman desired candidate profile : minimum 3 years experience in detail design. Please send your CV to Email: info@pak2pak.com Contact 99196733

DRIVER Wanted driver. Contact 95112461 Light Driver required.

Must be currently present in Oman.

Salary 150 + 25 + accommodation.

Contact 99454425

DOMESTIC HELPER Part time maid required in Al-Khuwair 25 on Sunday and Wednesday, call 97093525

ENGI./ELECT./TECH..

Mechanical Workers Required A well established pipeline construction company required some skilled workers of below mentioned categories; Fabricators, Fitters, Mechanical Helper .

Please Contact at this number urgently 96928351 Required Foreman for interior decoration and construction business with minimum 2 years experience in Oman and with valid Oman driving license. Contact 98825806.

Email: strns1@gmail.com Wanted Auto Electrician with ITI or diploma qualification.

Interested can send C.V on hilat.tech@gmail.com or contact 98983951 / 98668697 Wanted for immediate appointment linemen, Electrician, Duct fabricator, AC technicians, AC foreman HVAC, Procurement Asst. Engineer, minimum 2 years experience in Gulf for all posts. Apply with bio-data to hr_oman1@yahoo.com immediately.

Looking for Assistant Workshop Manager, Automobile Engineering with minimum 4 years experience in vehicle modification works.

Contact: 97441935

ENGI./ELECT./TECH..

Indian Chartered Accountant 15 years experience in KSA & Dubai.

EPR, Tally, Peachtree, SAP, MS Office.

Contact 0091 8086469422 Oman 99886373 Email: rahmanacc123@gmail.com

Construction Company require Civil Engineer, minimum 2 years experience. Contact 93806556 Urgently required Irrigation Engineers, B.Tech (Agri/Irri) for supervision 5 yrs experience.

Contact- secons.engineers@gmail. com Contact 99244481

Indian CA, male, having 12+ Years’ experience in the field of A/Cs, finance, auditing, consultancy and also knowledgeable in SAP B1,Tally ERP ,etc. Working as Finance Manager for last 2 years in Oman and have valid D/L of Oman. NOC available. PLZ contact: 98234761, Email:caraj700@gmail.com

Urgently Required: 1) Planning Engineer minimum 5 years experience with primavera certificate and immediately join.

2) Electrical Engineer minimum 5 years experience in building construction and immediately join.

Apply, fax 00968–24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com.

Urgently required for leading company, Land Surveyor, Electrical technician, MEP foreman, Camp Boss. Fax: 24478522 E-mail: gh1.careers@gmail.com

EDUCATION New International Schools in Oman going to begin in September 2015 seeks Principal, Early years & foundation stage and Cambridge primary teachers (Homeroom and co-teachers), Operations Manager, Admissions Manager & Parents Relationship Manager. Send CV and open letters of references to : gharsoman@gmail.com / marwa@amjad.com.kw Contact 0069555789779/ 00968 94665998

IT Required qualified and IT teachers note: candidates for teaching should have minimum bachelor degree and having experience not less than 2 years. Please submit your CV through email till 29th of March 2015. For more information please contact with 24498423 Email: info@omrantraining.com

MEDICAL Wanted female Nurse for Skin clinic in Muscat. Must have MOH license and NOC. Mail to clinicvacancy2015@gmail.com Urgently required Pharmacist.

Contact 94200385/ 95206905/ 97433142 Email: anitho@gmail.com

Indian male 24 yrs MBA marketing 21 days visit visa looking for marketing accounts and sales good communication skills. Contact 91379124 Email: rahmansahil3@gmail.com

MEDICAL

SALES / MARKETING

Immediate placement (with or without MOH) - Pharmacist - 3 nos, Asst. Pharmacist - 2 nos.

Contact- 99338219 , 93240949

Wanted Salesman with driving licence and car. Gsm : 98805474 or email id: jobssales2015@gmail.com

Urgently required an Orthodontist with MOH to work at a reputed Dental Center in Muscat.

Contact 968 99694723, Email : dr.bdohc@gmail.com

SKILLED LABOUR Operator of Mobile Concrete Pump up to 56 meters With a valid GCC driving license Required to work for a private firm. Contact 94446669

Urgently required an excellent grade construction firm based in Muscat has immediate vacancy for Marketing Executive minimum 5 years experience with D/L. Email your CV to info@omannc.com

Indian male 28 years experience in Accounts & Admin with B.E, MBA finance seeks suitable placement with a reputed from on visit visa.

Contact 97409606 Email: mujtabaalam7@gmail.com Bachelor degree in business (Accounting) from Majan College searching for job with D/L and 2 years exp . Contact 96132149

Sales man for a printing press.

Contact 97842797

Finance Manager, CPA, with more than 15 yrs. of experience in GCC. Fully knowledgeable in Finance, General & Management Accounting .

NOC available. Contact 96209331

Sales Executives needed for marble & granite company with minimum one year experience with driving license. Good looking Indians only.

Email: anas@kenzostone.com / nabil@kenzostone.com

Indian male MBA (fin & marketing) 9 years experience in business development, healthcare insuring fin & actng seeking suitable job on visit in Oman. Contact 98653962 Email: mdsaleem.r@gmail.com

Required Sales & Marketing person for IT company with minimum 2 years experience in Oman and with valid Oman driving license.

Contact 98825806.

Email: strns1@gmail.com

Asst Accountant BBM, 2 yrs experience seeking suitable vacancy in accounts, operation logistics etc. 1 year experience in hardware & networking as well. Contact 97623267

Male, total 17 years experience in India & Oman - India - 9 years & Oman - 8 years In the field of procurement, material controller and accountancy Local release available (Noc) Cont no. 91680124 , 98606546 Indian male 22 yrs B. Com Graduate 1 year exp in Accounts, currently on visit visa. Looking for suitable job.

Contact – 94341848 / Email – mohdhaji7272@gmail.com Indian Accounts / Audit assistant with 2 years of experience currently on a visit visa looking for suitable job openings. Contact 94677338, 97041086 Email: ajeeshkcy1989@gmail.com Indian Male, 27 yrs MBA (Fin), SAP, 4 Yrs Exp in Finance Seeking Suitable Job with a Reputed Firm Currently on Visit Visa # 92481230 Accountant 25 years experience M.Com Accounts up to finalization 14 years in Oman. NOC release available. Contact 99640490 email: mathutb@gmail.com Indian male with 7 years experience in customer service and banking operations looking for a suitable job right now on visit visa.

Contact 96169123 Sr. Accountant, M.Com, Indian male,13 yrs exp in MNC, FMCG & Automobile spare parts with valid Oman D/L looking for suitable position. NOC available-Mob: 92435323 Accounts part time works up to finalization, monthly report, balance sheet and finalization works.

Contact 96247295 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 Senior Accountant, 10 years experience in Oman on visit.

Contact 98897581.

12 years Oman experienced Chief Accountant looking for suitable placement. Contact 97385562 Accountant: a well experienced Indian male, M.Com, more than 20 years experience in accounting field (GCC & India), looking for job as accountant or accounts manager in oman. presently working in India and ready to join immediately.

Contact :99087175 Indian male 26 years, with 4 years experience in accounts and administration looking for suitable placement. Contact 93008891

SALES / MARKETING Wanted Sales or Marketing Executive degree or master degree.

Interested can send C.V on hilat.tech@gmail.com or contact 98983951 / 98668697 Kitchen Sales Executive Required:Qualified candidates must have a minimum 2year work experience in GCC with valid Oman driving license.

Interested candidates please send your CV to abuqusaikitchen@gmail.com A leading group is looking for Sales Executives, min 2 years experience in Building materials & Electricals with driving license & release/ NOC. Email CV to alhajoil@omantel.net.om or Fax: 24701683

Required promoter for promoting Perfumes in shopping centre please.

Contact 95663682 or send CV atugt15@gmail.com

TOUR Urgently required travel agent for travel agency having 1 year experience SABRE software.

Contact 91120003 or Email: line_travels@yahoo.com

CA with 8 years Experience (6 in UAE & Oman) in A/cs, Finance & Audit. Contact: :98707434 / casmart007@gmail.com

Indian male, B.Com, Accountant – 6yrs exp in Oman, NOC availableReady to join.contact: 98162671 ; email: prasanths3@gmail.com Pakistani male, 25 yrs, MBA Finance, 1.6 yrs exp in Accounts seeking placement in Accounts, Administration or Business Management. Contact 92651927 / 94250149

Indian 34 yrs B.Com CA Inter pass 12 yrs exp in Audit A/C, Finance on visit seeks suitable placement.

Contact 95585069

B.Com India. Languages : English, Hindi & Malayalam.

Contact 92954613

India Accountant: Male, M com, 7 Yrs experience in Accounts up to finalization, having knowledge of ERP, Tally, seeks suitable placement. Contact:93950138 Email: lijinrajan123@gmail.com

Female with MBA finance, financial and tax professional four and half years of experience seeks suitable opportunities in reputed organizations. Contact- 99792457 Email: msparveen1@gmail.com

S U N DAY, M A R C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE

EDUCATION

Accounting up to finalization, auditing & contact for tally ERP software Contact– 91720465

Indian female M.SC, M.PHIL, BIO, Informatics 1 yr experience in college level seeks suitable placement in schools and colleges.

Contact 92237504

B.com doing CA Accounts/ office job male now working in Oman Noc, release available. Contact 92715465 Email: alsabathehm@gmail.com

ARCHI./ DRAUGHTSMAN Indian Male, 25 yrs currently in Oman on visit looking for suitable vacancies in accounts, B.Com completed 1 yr experience.

Contact 92024380 Indian Male, MBA 2 yrs experience in Accounts, Admin & HR on visit visa. Contact 92045306 Indian male- B.Com/B.Ed/15 years Exp – 5 in Oman, seeks job in Accts/Sales/Logistics have NOC and Oman D/L with car.

Contact – 92919625/93511425/ 93424828; Email- seshadricpioman@gmail.com

Diploma in Architect 2.5 years experience in Oman having driving.

Contact 92967404 Indian male, Autocad draughtman with 2 years of experience currently working in oman.seeking suitable placement.NOC available.#94123480 Email: fahadhundred@gmail.com Auotcad knows 3D,REVIT, MAX Ph : 97103168

CATERING

A Fresh ACCA Affiliate, Pakistani male, 24 yrs, open for positions of Accounts, Audit and finance.

Contact : 94541539 email: wasiqnasir_3@yahoo.com

Indian male 28 holding diploma in hotel management with experience looking for suitable job.

Contact 94388320 Email: rajeshsarseathy.kim@outlook.com

ACCA finalist and BSc from Oxford Brookes University UK, having 18 months working experience, currently in Muscat on visit, seeking immediate and suitable position. Contact : 95375282

Indian cook, Tandoori cook, male, 32 yrs, having 4 yrs of experience in Muscat in India, looking for a cook job in Hotel. Contact 93753523 / 98744307 / 92175119.

22 years of experience in Multinational Companies & reputed firms in Financial Management, Project Management, Budgeting and Cost control, seeking a strategic Financial/Management Accounting role in a dynamic organization .

Contact : +971-506178139, Email.georg_vargis01@yahoo.com

DRIVER Light Driver having own visa looking for job as driver.

Contact 92303692 Looking for light driver job.

Contact 95141473 Light driver with car available.

Contact 95520696

ADMIN/HR Light driver job.

Contact 91376612 Indian male 2+yrs oman exp in HR. joing immediatly. release available.

Contact :93671437

Pakistani, light duty driver with 3 yrs exp. Contact 96756014

Indian male 26 years (MBA) (Operations & Marketing) 2 years experience in administration, operations and sales and marketing looking for suitable placement on visit visa.

Contact 97920125

Driver heavy license looking for job with 7 years experience.

Contact 92073175 / 95606146

Indian male 36 yrs having 12 yrs of experience in Oman in the following fields- HR & Admin, Purchase, Logistics, Operation. NOC available.

Ph: 93885680

Bangladesh and Oman driver looking for job.

Contact 98503237

Indian female with excellent communication skills, confident, dedicated to work and enthusiastic.

Knowledge about ms office. Has 6 years of experience in customer service, telecommunication, HR.Looking for immediate placement. Contact # 97348819 Indian female, 29 yrs, HR (MBA) BSC 3+ yrs in HR & Admin India & Oman seeking suitable placement.

Contact 95619537 Indian male, B.Com, almost 2 yrs exp in Accounts & Admin on visit visa. Contact 98546162 HR Manager Marketing Manager, 12 yrs experience in India seeks immediate placement in Oman.

Contact 95881471, Email : pradeeprajtb@gmail.com Indian male, MBA, 8 yrs experience in HR with Oman D/L. NOC available.

Contact 98692434 Indian male MBA 12 years exp with international exposure seeking suitable job administrative, HR management, sales & marketing, currently in Salalah. Contact 91233648 / 94667857 mail: kumar79vimal@gmail.com Indian male, 13 yrs Gulf experience in Admin / front office.

Contact 97941050 Indian male MBA (HR & Marketing) 2 years experience seeking suitable job now on visit visa.

Contact 96483964 / 98757816 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 B.Com with excellent communication available for immediate joining full time or part time in HR & Admin coordination.

Contact 98460262 Young Indian male with 5 years Muscat experience in admin, purchase & Masters from UK seeks placement. Possess driving license.

Contact 94400671

Looking for driving job with car 4x4. Contact 91331299 / 96157595

Six years experience in Oman driver seeks suitable placement.

Contact 99437236 Bangladeshi Driver looking for job.

Contact 93567263 Looking for driving job.

Contact 98219182 Looking for driving job.

Contact 97311715 Light/ heavy duty, driver (GCC valid D/L for company) looking for job. Contact 99531802 Light duty driver with 3 years experience in Oman +5 years in Saudi Arabia speaking Hindi Arabic English. Contact 96088707 Light driver looking for job.

Contact 92791678 Light driver looking for job.

Contact 91376612 LV Driver- 2 yrs Exp-know English- Contact 95292064

DOMESTIC HELPER Female cleaner for school/kg, job (overseas). Contact 95175192 House boy/ cleaner looking job overseas. Contact 95175192

DESIGNER Modular kitchen designer with 4 years Bahrain /Dubai experience plus 10 years AutoCAD, 3D, Photoshop& 20-20 Fusion.

Contact -96467673, cristobabu@gmail.com Keralite Bachelor professional building designer with AutoCAD, 3D Max & Accounts.

Contact 96535497, email : bhaviwky90@gmail.com

ENGG. / TECHNICAL 24 years Indian female diploma in computer science and engineering now on visit visa seek suitable placement.

Contact 96314974/99107369

ENGG. / TECHNICAL Indian Male 27years, 5yrs exp. as QA/QC Civil Engineer on visit visa seeking suitable placement.

Contact-94372711 Electrical Engineer having 5 years of project experience up to 33KV, having valid driving license. NOC is available. Contact 94107952 /95538337 Mechanical Engineer Indian male (B.Tech, asme.ndt, level 2 piping course) having 1 year experience in Automobile industry is seeking suitable placement. Contact 97800807 / 95844631 Indian male, BE Aeronautical with MBA in production & operations management seeking suitable placement. Contact 97738182 / 95097270 M.Tech Civil (structure) with 3 yrs experience looking for a suitable job with reputed consultants or contracting companies.

Contact 93137035, Email : mdshahzar.khan@gmail.com M.Tech Computer Science & Engineering, Indian female, Fresher, looking for suitable vacancy.

Contact 96103071 Email: norajobai@gmail.com Indian male, 24 yrs, B.Tech (MECH) on visit, 1 year experience as PPC Engineer looking for suitable placement. Has HVAC, AutoCAD and CATIA designing skills.

Contact 98925685 Indian B.Tech Mechanical Engineer, 26 yrs, 4 yrs experience in HVAC/MEP. Contact 94669629, rajeevhpd15@yahoo.com Indian Mechanical Engineer, 25 years with 5 years experience in fabrication (steel & pipe), machinery installation HVAC and Quality control in welding & mechanical working in Muscat and NOC available.

Contact 97270431 Email: akhilcnair1989@gmail.com D.A.E Civil 4 years experience D/L Oman. Contact 96719649 Indian male 24 years B.Tech Mechanical Engineer with 2 years experience seeks suitable placement in reputed company.

Contact 99359887 / 94132536 Civil Engineer with MBA have 10 years exp in construction and roads projects management.

Contact 97046565 Omani Citizen BE Mechanical Engineer with 1 year Experience looking for job urgently. Contact: 95993315 email: eaz-s@hotmail.com Mechanical Engineer Indian male with one year experience also qualified in PDMS, Piping and NDT level two seeking suitable position currently in visit visa. Contact 98698682 Email: arundevchandran@gmail.com Electrical Engg, B.E Indian male 1 yr exp on visit visa. Contact 93700848 Email: quizzu.26@gmail.com Electrical Eng diploma 12 yrs exp HV /LV - UG & OHL having NOC with valid Oman D/L & Mazoon CEP. Contact 96274568 Mechanical Engineer (BE) done process piping, PDMS, Q.C welding N.D.T course fresher on visit visa looking for job. Contact 97359171 Email: sayyedz097@ymail.com Electrical Eng. Degree (MEP) need suitable job of construction 12 yrs exp.

Email: mohd.ateeq.khan@gmail.com Project Engineer, civil engineer BSC, Building Construction 5 Years Exp in Oman fluent Arabic, English and good Hindi .Contact - 97858589 Generator maintenance in charge with 4 yrs experience with Cummins, caterpillar, kirloskar and voltas. Contact - email: shibinmundakkal@gmail.com Sudanese Electrical plants equipment Engineer with 3 years Diploma degree of Electrical Engineer have 5 years experience in building constructing industry operation installation maintenance asphalt crushers stone plants and automation systems.

Contact 94549609

Indian male 24 years, Mechanical Engineer,pdms.1 yr experience in pipeline,16years in oman seeking immediate placement Contact 95775742 M. Tech Civil (structure) with 3 years experience looking for a suitable job with reputed consultants or contracting companies.

Contact – 93137035 Email – mdshahzar.khan@gmail.com Seeking job Electronics and Instrumentation Engineer (Indian) Indian male, Instrumentation Engineer having total 5 years of experience in electrical site execution, 1 year in Uae,presently in oman (visit visa) seeking suitable job Contact. 95690915 Email. Syam.andrews@gmail.Com 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.

B. Sc Civil Engineer with 5 years experience and valid Omani driving license and PDO driving and safety license and OSHA safety license looking for suitable job.

Contact 92548097 Sudanese chemist resident, 3 years experience in chemical industry.

Contact 97399073 Sudanese Graduate with 3 years Diploma in Civil Engineering have 5 years experience in building construction industry materials, specification & testing.

Contact 96995670 Civil Engineer B Tech, Site Engineer Experienced, Drafting on Visit Visa Ph : 91642050 Looking Part time Job in HVACContact - 93198128 Quantity Surveyor (Civil Building) looking for Part time job Contact no:-94391712 E-mail addressinayathhussain@yahoo.com Civil Engineer with 12 years Experience Looking For Job. Contact 98162295 Indian Male, IT Support Engineer, 2 yrs in Oman & 5 yrs Indian experience. Contact 97311847 Experienced female Electrical Engineer. Contact 93800906 Aircraft Maintenance Technician with one year experience seeks suitable placement. Contact amaljohn2002@gmail.com B.Tech Mechanical Engineer (Automobile)&Diploma in QC with 2yrs experience in oil & gas company seek suitable placement job currently on Visit Visa. Contact no.96071081, 99214308 , Email: rahulvarikkat@gmail.com Sudanese Mechanical Engineer 11 years exp in oil & gas industry.

Contact - 95928035 Telecom Engineer with 4.5 years Oman experience looking for a suitable opportunity, interested even in Marketing also. Possess valid Oman driving license.

Contact 94145460 DAE (Civil) having 3.5 years Experience 2 years from Oman with driving licences, seeking for suitable position in Construction field NOC and release available .

Contact 96968554 Email: mehranahmad26@yahoo.com Diploma of Associate Civil Engineering, Diploma of AutoCad, having 3.5 yrs experience, 2 yrs experience of Oman in Building Construction, valid transferrable ID Card.

Contact 94378581

Indian Female (M.Com, B.ED) 2Yrs Experience in teaching seeks suitable placement . Specialization in ( Accounting, Business studies, Human resource management, Economics). Presently in Visit Visa Status. Contact:97342709, Email: sininair27@gmail.com 1 year experience in teaching all subject to KG classes, currently working as a teacher in Oman, seeking suitable placement, Family visa. Contact 92178304 / 99036256

HOSPITALITY Indian female (Aviation and hospitality management) with excellent communication skill, confident, dedicated to works and enthusiastic and 1 year experience in admin department looking for immediate placement .

Contact 93351256 email : hinakhan.hk88@gamil.com

IT Indian male 25 B.Tech (IT) Engineer 2.5 yrs exp in hardware networking.

Currently on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact – 94359564 Indian male 22 years BCA graduate, CLSCO certified Network Associate and COMPTIA A+ (Installing, Configuring and troubleshooting). Fresher with good computer proficiency seeking for suitable opportunities.

Ready to do other office routines and work anywhere in Oman valid Indian driving license. Currently on visit visa. Contact 99704508 / 91258708 Email chiran280293@gmail.com Indian male 28 yrs, trained in computer hardware and networking and certified CCNA MCSA, looking for suitable job.

Contact 94388320 Email: rajeshsaraswathy.kim@outlook.com BSC Computer Science 4 years Oman EXP, driving license MCSE, CCNA, MCITP. Contact 95874315 Indian male 25 years, bachelor in Computer Science with 3 years experience in basic hardware software and networking seek suitable placement now on visit visa.

Contact 92995706 Email: ismabsc@gmail.com IT Project Manager (PMP) available for immediate joining. Total 15+ years exp & 12 years of IT experience in SAP & Project management. Having working experience of UK, France, Germany, China, UAE, India, etc.

Currently on Visit Visa. Call 94300317 Website software developer Oman experience looking for job.

Contact 91781286 Email: hussainkhan201@gmail.com Indian male Graduate IT professional having 3+ years of experience in IT Support Engineer / Hardware & networking CCNA, MCITP, PHCE, looking for job on visit visa.

Contact 94647824 email id: azharpo@gmail.com Indian male, 25 years BSC, (Computer Science) 2 years experience in computer, hardware & networking looking for suitable placement presently on visit visa. # 93243372 Network Engineer, BSc Communications, 5 years exp, CCNA, VAS, Data Center, working now at Alcatel Lucent, visit visa. Contact 91268787 Indian male Graduate (BSc. IT) 25 years new on visit visa in Muscat.

1 year experience in Accounts looking for suitable position.

Contact 95752827 Email: mhdfsrn@gmail.com Male Omani National, 27 years, holding Master in IT - Computer Sciences Engineering (India) and Master in Robotic Intelligency (Spain), looking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 99211549.

Mechanical Engineer, Gulf Exp in Design and Manufacturing Ph: 97097688

3G , 4G Welding lead man Indian male, 33 years, having 15 years experience in American company, UAE and India, seeking for suitable placement. Contact 92122468 Email: shaji11@gmail.com

Indian male, 26 yrs B-Tech (ECE) with MBA in Marketing / HR looking for a suitable placement. Currently on visit visa valid up to 30 January 2015. Contact 93754428, email : shijosirius709@gmail.com

Hardware specialist B.Tech M.Tech electronics with 10 years experience seeks suitable opportunities in reputed organizations.

Contact 91289459 Email: shrn.shrf@gmail.com

IT IT Prof, MCA having 6+ yrs exp, seeks suitable position.

Contact 94543668 B.Tech IT Professional, Indian Male with 3 yrs of Exp. In System Admin, IT Support, Networking, Installing Active Directory, DHCP, DNS,RAS, configuring maintaining and managing servers, configuring cisco routers, Exp in handling SQL database, With Valid Driving Licence. Contact - 968 98863507

MEDICAL Female Dentist Indian, 28 years Dental Surgeon, 3 years of experience, Oman prometric passed with 64%, looking for a suitable placement in Muscat region.

Contact 91377681 Email: hashmisarwat@gmail.com Bangladesh male MBBS Doctor with 3 years experience for a private clinic. Contact 00968-94209634 Nazia Shahid Shah, General Dentist from India with 3 plus years of full hands-on experience including clinic management. Prometric exam passed in March 2015 63% Looking for a suitable placement in Muscat region. Contact 97469553.

Email :- nazianbaig@gmail.com Medical- Indian female, 27 yrs, masters in hospital administration, fellowship in HTA studied in a super specialty medical sciences and research center in India and done project in an established hospital in sultanate of Oman.

Contact 93200827, 91026506 Lab Technician, Civil (8yrs Gulf experience) looking for a suitable job (NOC available) Contact-93344378 Female pharmacist with 3 years experience and MOH license currently in Oman, CONTACT 92455124

MISCELLANEOUS MBA male having experience of production operation administration looking for job immediately joining.

Contact 94670691 Electrician, Plumber, Gulf exp looking for job. Contact 99531802 Logistics Officer, Experience in Store keeping. Contact : 99505934

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR Projects / Contracts Manager 31 yrs (26 yrs Oman) experience in Management & coordination of multi-million R.O projects of Government & private sector, post Graduate Structural Engineer with QS Background looking for senior position in construction / Engineering consultancy / Government.

Contact +00968-91400599 Manager 16 years experience in Hypermarket with Oman driving license seeking suitable placement.

Release available.

Contact 00968 96913238 Indian male D/L looking job as Supervisor or safety officer/ camp boss. Contact 94003617 Indian male M.Tech MBA, 24 years experience working as Country Manager seeks employment.

Contact 92279972, NOC available.

Qualified Manager: (12+ yrs. Oman Exp.) Vast knowledge in A/c & Admin, Costing, Banking, Credit Control, Insurance, International Purchase/Logistics & Finance, With D/L looking for suitable position.

Contact 93826090 Email: jskanchan01@gmail.com Indian female with nine years of experience in 5 Star hotels as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager looking for a suitable placement in a reputed Star hotel. Contact: 91219787

PROJECTS Indian male, 4 years experience as Safety Officer with NEBOSH currently on visit visa.

Contact :99565910, E mail: yadavchandan287@gmail.com

SKILLED / UNSKILLED Welder, 3G, 6G, TIG, Exp in Fabrication , Gulf Exp Ph : 97103168 Care taker, Gulf Exp knows Hindi, Arabic Ph: 94238840

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S U N DAY, M A R C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED SECRETARIAL/OFFICE

SALES / MARKETING

Indian male more than 10 years Gulf experience in Office / Sales Coordinator, Admin (employees visa processes), Secretarial and purchase coordination with good computer skills. Having Driving license and NOC available. Looking for suitable placement. Contact 99709336

Indian Male, 7 yrs experience in building materials trading having Oman D/L, immediate release available. Contact 98676713

Indian female, well experienced in secretarial, administration, customer care & supervisory jobs.

5 years experience in Muscat.

Immediately available for joining.

Contact: 92139298 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

SALES / MARKETING MBA in marketing with more than 5yrs of experience in building material sales in Oman seek suitable placement D/L & NOC available.

Contact 96353095 Indian, male, 27 yrs, B.Com 5 yr exp in Sales & sales coordinator Excel, MS Office, word now on visit visa.

Contact 95612321 Email: jkadavil@gmail.com Indian male MBA 7 years experience in Hospitality industry, operation, sales & marketing looking for suitable vacancy. Contact 92115860 Email vibin.py@gmail.com Marketing Executive + warehouse Manager male 24 yrs, 2 yrs exp with NOC available GCC driving license.

Looking for suitable placement opening. Contact - 97307863 Marketing Sales job Oman experience. Contact 91781286 Indian male, 25 yrs MBA, HR , having 1.5 yrs exp in sales & marketing on visit visa seeking for a suitable job. Contact 98796877 Pakistani male MBA marketing 2 years experience need job in sales marketing export admin management sector. Contact 94009052

Young female, having experience of working in Oman with expertise in the field of Event Management, Advertising, Marketing and Hotel Management. Currently on a visit visa. Seeking for a suitable Job. Contact 96153578 MBA fresher, with fluency in English, Arabic, Hindi, Tamil and Malayalam, looking for suitable job.

Currently in Oman on visit visa.

Mob : +968-93730345 Indian male 23 with 2 years Oman experience looking for suitable placement in sales and marketing.

NOC available with valid D/L. Contact 96392009 18 yrs Oman experience in building materials seeking suitable placement, NOC available Contact 93105775

MISCELLANEOUS Indian, male, Business Management graduate with 10 years UAE experience in supervisory/ administration position in Electronic Card Personalisation projects, seeks jobs in banking/ financial sector. Contact: 00971505250274/ naushers@yahoo.com B.tech Mechanical Engineer, Keralite bachelor with B.tech looking for job in Oman with three year of experience on visiting Visa.

Contact no.-0096891296354, Email-manurpr88@gmail.com Indian Male 25yrs, having 3year Indian experience in Accountant Shipping Company, looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 919632529484, Email: bangerasavan@gmail.com Pakistani Male having 5 years exp. Valid Omani Driving license working as a Logistic Officer looking for a suitable position. Salary is negotiable. Email : naveedmuhammad037@gmail.com, Mob: +96893363316

Indian Male having 7 yrs in experience in Oman Sales & Marketing Office Automation Printer, Copier, MFP, IT products & Stationery. Looking for Suitable Placement NOC Available Contact :9738474

OPTOMETRIST, 27 years Indian female, 3 years experience looking for suitable placement in Muscat.

Contact: 92066532 Email: aradhanaarun88@gmail.com

Indian male, B.Com, 20 yrs experience in Sales & Marketing having UAE light D/L looking for suitable post. Contact +91 9946699062, email : sajim40@gmail.com

Civil Engineer Indian with 12years experience in building construction having valid driving license.sureshudreams@gmail. com, 91305025 /93839731

MISCELLANEOUS 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 male, 14 yrs Experience in Maintenance & Supervisor in hotel (Electrical, Ac Mechanical & Plumber ) mob : 95253640 Indian Male 26 Years, having 2 year experience in accounting field Looking for suitable placement. Currently working in Oman.

NOC available, immediate joining.

Contact No: 94282980, Email: shirasvelliyath@gmail.com Pakistani Male having 5 years experience Valid Omani Driving license working as a Logistic Officer looking for a suitable position. salary is negotiable. naveedmuhammad037@gmail. com Mob: +96893363316 /94202746 Indian Male, 58 years, Oman experience in Multifunctional Management, Administration, Business Development, Purchase & Operations seeking suitable Manager/ Supervisory Position.Visa transfer/ NOC Available. GSM: 95036410 Part- Time Accountant, well versed with all accounting, Finalization, Budgeting available Contact : 98803439 Indian male, 14 yrs experience in maintenance & Supervisor in hotel ( Electrical, Ac Mechanical & Plumber). Contact 95253640 Looking for Network Engineer Job, NOC Available Immediately, CCNA, CCIE Collaboration Written Current Company: Global Solutions L.L.C, 3.5 Years experience. #97312044 engineerwaleedkhan@hotmail. com Indian male, 45+ yrs, 20 yrs exp. in Sales Supervisor looking for sales / stores / cash or any suitable placement, can join immediately on visit visa. Contact 93086105 / 99016546 Lab Chemist 10 yrs experience in gas and crude oil analysis Master degree in chemistry on visit visa 94403242 Indian male 23 years B.Com completed fresher with fluency in English, Hindi and Telugu looking for suitable job . Currently in Oman on visit visa. Contact 96098174 / 98912870

AutoCAD draughtsman temporary available at the month of April (AR+ST+PL+HVAC) Contact – 91620107 24 year Indian Chartered Accountant male with 3yrs of experience is seeking suitable placement in Muscat, currently on visit visa & ready to join immediately. Kindly contact him on 98201476 or email at lokeshkaluri@gmail.com Senior Accounts Professional, Indian Male, 35 years, M.Com, MBA (Fin) 8 years in Oman, with valid Oman DL and NOC available. Capable to handle accounts up to finalization.

Contact 9602 3965.

Indian female 25 years MBA finance currently on visit visa seeks immediate placement. Contact: +(968) 9843 0089, +(968) 97851940 Marketing Manager Indian male 11 years local market experience with Oman driving license and NOC looking for suitable placement.

Contact 93564959 Email: drmbuz@gmail.com Indian Male, 58 years, Rich Oman experience in Multifunctional Management, Administration, Business Development, Purchase & Operations, seeking suitable Manager/Supervisory Position.Visa transfer/NOC Available.

GSM: 95036410 Indian, Male 43, CA/ISA, Experience in Retail, NBFC, Logistics, Banking, Automobile, Investment and facility Management, seeking for a change.

Valid D/L. Release available.

Contact: aurosun@gmail.com AutoCAD draughtsman temporary available at the month of April (AR+ST+PL+HVAC).

Contact – 91620107 MCA, MBA, CCNA, MCSE, Indian male with 10 years of experience, holding Oman driving license on visit visa seeks any suitable placement. Contact 92716116 / 91266535 Email: sijuayur@gmail.com South African Teacher – male – Teaching Diploma , B.A. (Hons), B. Admin (Hons ). 18 years experience – seeking a primary teaching post – grades 4 to 7 (8 to 12 years). Can teach all subjects at this level.

On 30 day visitors visa.

Contact 93341047.

E- mail nadgov@gmail.com Indian male, 14 yrs Experience in Maintenance & Supervisor in hotel (Electrical, Ac Mechanical & Plumber). Contact : 95253640 Accountant, Indian male 24 yrs, 2 years successful experience in Oman with Oman Driving License .

NOC Available. Seek a suitable opportunity. GSM : 9340 9315 Computer Teacher, MCA in Al Ghubra. Contact : 94231633 Indian male Executive secretary having vast experience in admin, logistics & procurement well versed with computer seek suitable placement. Contact : 99514286 7 Years successful experience.

ACCOUNTANT, Indian male, 29 years. Presently working in Oman as a Senior Accountant with oman Driving license seek suitable opportunity. GSM: 97705854 Indian Male, 22 years, B.com graduate, Knowledge of Tally ERP9, MS Excel & MS word.Currently in Oman on visit visa, looking for suitable placement. Contact 99894250 email: fouzishaque@gmail.com

Indian, Male, 43 years, Chartered Accountant, 18+ years of experience, looking for a change. Valid Driving License. Release available.

Contact: aurosun@gmail.com Australian Network Engineer, with 4 years exp, BE in Telecom MS in Network Sys worked as a Network/WiMax Eng well versed with Cisco devices, available on contact 92606921 Email: akalu987@gmail.com Sri Lankan, female, 25 years, Graduate in Management, possessing 6 years experience in banking, financial, administration and risk management.

Currently on a visit visa seeks suitable immediate placement.

Contact 93462521. wathsala.perera1@yahoo.com Corporate Communication Professional, smart, quality English writing, double Masters, Oman exp in Corporate, Internal &Marketing Communication, CSR Programs, PRs, Ads, Events, Campaigns, Customer Relations. Immediately Available, Release.

Contact 91229392 Manager-Corporate Communications, pleasing personality, excellent English, Masters-Journalism, Mass Communication, Finance, expert in writing & publishing press releases, advertisements, website content, speeches, CSR, promotions, events. Immediate joining, NOC. Contact 91229392 Indian male, 25 years, now on visit visa in Muscat. One year experience in accounts , looking for suitable position.

Contact:95752827, Email id: mhdfsrn@gmail.com Indian Male 28yr age having 6year gulf+ Indian experience in HR field. Looking for suitable placement. Contact:97914340, Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com 30 years Indian male with hotel management degree, 02 years experience in F&B service at five star hotel in Dubai and 05 years in American 6 star cruiseliner as Butler . Currently in Muscat on visit visa. Contact 91075704 Senior Accountant Indian Male with 13 Year of Experience (7 years in Oman) in Accounts & Finance having valid Omani Driving License with NOC Available. Looking for suitable job. # 96001918 Indian Male, 27, Mechanical Engineer. HND, with exp. as Project coordinator in U.A.E, Valid GCC D/L, currently on visit, looking for a suitable position. Contact 97070427 Indian female (B.A. B.ed) seeks suitable placement as fresher primary teacher.(Specialization in social studies, currently pursuing M.A in English).Presently in family visa status. Contact:99713864.

Email:poojaavn@yahoo.com 28 year Indian male Art specialist with 7.5 yrs of experience in Healthcare industries in AR analyst (US Based Project - M.BA., Finance) seeking suitable placement. Contact +91 9841906431, E-mail: aru1986k@gmail.com Indian male, 25 years, now on visit visa in Muscat. One year experience in accounts, looking for suitable position. Contact:95752827, Email id: mhdfsrn@gmail.com Looking for job Tunisian Bachelor with experience 5 years in Network/IT. Cont.:91368102

CIVIL Autocad Draughtsman Looking for part time job. #95218737 Indian Teacher Female with two years experience seeks suitable placement in Indian or Omani Schools currently on visit visa please contact 99436826. Email id :- ineshdsouza31@gmail.com Diploma in Fire and Safety Engineering. Have 3.5 years of experience as an Safety Advisor. Having a valid Omani driving license is looking for job.

For further information please contact me at 96896176872, 9689808527.

Indian male 28yr age having 6 years Gulf+ Indian experience in HR field, looking for suitable placement. Contact: 97914340, Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com Indian Female, 24 yrs MS. Software Engg. Currently on family visa, 1 year experience in SAP WM & IT seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 95490105 MBA fresher, with fluency in English, Arabic, Hindi, Tamil & Malayalam, looking for suitable job.

Currently in Oman on visit visa.

Mob : +968-93730345 B.tech Mechanical Engineer : Keralite bachelor with B. Tech looking for job in Oman with three year of experience ,on Visiting Visa. Contact no.-0096891296354, Email-manurpr88@gmail.com Indian Male more than 10 years gulf experience in Office / Sales Coordinator, Admin (employees visa processes), Secretarial and purchase with good computer skills. Having Driving license and NOC available.

Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 99709336 Indian male, 14 years Experience in maintenance & Supervisor in hotel ( Electrical, Ac Mechanical & Plumber ) mob : 95 25 36 40 27 years, Indian optometrist , female , 3years experience looking for suitable placement in Muscat. Contact : 92066532 mail: aradhanaarun88@gmail.com Indian Male 22 years, B.Com looking for suitable placement.

Contact no. - 99894520 email- fouzishaque@gmail.com ACCA+2.5 years of experience in Accounts, Bookeeping and Audit.

Looking for job in Accounts/Finance/Internal Audit. Also worked on Oracle R12, Tally, Quick Books and PeachTree. Gsm: 91717234 Email: xhoaib101@hotmail.com, Civil draughtsman expecting part time job.(civil infrastructure) and BBS. Contact :95914642 Planning Engineer 7 years of Experience in project planning and control in oil and gas, PDO & QP Approved Planner,PRIMAVERA-6,B. Tech in Mechanical engineering from CUSAT Contactullasprabhakaran@yahoo.co.in, ph-00974 70230223 Sales manager (be-mech/mba) in oman since-2005; (omn-d/l); seeking immediate replacement in marketing and sales or, bdm profile, contact-96040977, kvmssn@gmail.Com B.tech Mechanical Engineer, Keralite bachelor with B.tech looking for job in oman with a year of experience on Visiting Visa.

Contact no.-0096891296354, Email-manurpr88@gmail.com

S U N DAY, M A R C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

D7

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours Contact- 98029602, 92808636

TOURS

TOURS

RENT A CAR

RENT A CAR

TRANSPORTATION Pick & Drop Available @ 99159277 Transportation. Contact 98505294 Transportation. Contact 99664703 Transportation. Contact 98518979 Transport to ISWK. Contact 93172589 Pick & Drop any time.

Contact 97014786

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

D8

S U N DAY, M A R C H 2 9, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTSERVICES

WEBSITE

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED

CLASSES

Part- Time Accountant, well versed with all accounting, Finalization, Budgeting available.

Contact : 98803439 Sr. Sales Manager (BE/MBA) 9 yrs in Oman; (GCC/omn-d/l); seeking immediate replacement in mktg, sales or, bdm profile, # 96040977, kvmssn@gmail.com Indian male total 17 yrs exp in field of procurement, inventory, controlling & accountancy. Local release available, seeking suitable placement. # 91680124 / 98606546

DRIVING

Indian female, B.Com. knowledge of Ms .Office & Tally, 4yrs experience in A/Cing & admin dept .looking for good placement in any field.

Contact.98928220 ACCA-UK, B.Sc (OBU-UK) having 2.8 years of experience in Accounts, Bookeeping and Audit.

Looking for job in Accounts/Finance department. Also worked on Oracle R12, Tally, Quick Books and Peach Tree. Email: AliRiazMughal@Outlook.com, Gsm: +968-95459936

COMPUTER

WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

Contact: http//webviewoman

BUSINESS

Indian Male 28yr age having 6year gulf+ Indian experience in HR field, looking for suitable placement. Contact:97914340, Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com Indian male, 11 years exp.

In accounting, knowledge in tally also. Looking for a part time job.

Contact . 98983122

GOOD NEWS

Female Executive Assistant/Executive Secretary with 27+ experience, worked with top management/Board in financial services with shorthand skills & Omani driving license, seeks suitable placement. Call 95941515 Senior Accounts Professional, Indian Male, 35 years, M.Com, MBA (Fin) 8 years in Oman, with valid Oman DL and NOC available.

Capable to handle accounts up to finalization. Contact 9602 3965.

Indian female, Graduate, Certified in IATA, with 8 months experience in Travel and 2 and half years experience in Operations and HR looking for job in Field of Travel/ Office Management. Contact -92816803/ 92459686. Emailvijetadevilishangel@gmail.com MBA (international business) with 2.5 years experience in sales and also experience in vehicle spare parts (in-charge) looking for a suitable job presently on visit visa. Contact 93539456, 95765868, E mail: mathewsantony936@gmail.com British Beauty Therapist Looking for suitable position Mob: 97175240 INDIAN FEMALE ,Graduate, Certified in IATA, with 2 and half years experience in Admin/ Accounts and Office coordinator looking for job in Field of Travel/Office Management. Contact -92459686/ 92816803, Emailkrupa_patel1984@yahoo.com Part Time Accounting Job Complete Data Entry, Reporting and Finalization. Any Time Available.

Location Ruwi to Bharka. Please Contact- +968-92049215 Email:- aiafe.oman@gmail.com

Tile/marble/granite cutting, skirting & polishing please contact 94052713,99885638.

GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998

FOR HIRE Running truck wash for rent in Ouhi Sunia Sohar. Serious people can. Contact on 97864747 50 seater bus with PDO specification for rent or lease.

Contact 99839898

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED Indian female, 24yrs, M.Com (Accounts) having 3 yrs experience in Accounts, HR, Administration, Customer Service. Good Computer Proficiency seeks suitable Position. Visa Transfer/NOC Available. Contact: 99654913 Indian female B.Com Graduate, 4yrs experience in accounts, admin dept looking for placement in any field Contact: 98928220 Indian Female, B.tech bio-technology graduate. Knowledgeable in food processing techniques, having 2 yrs experieince as associate research analyst(media monitoring)in Nasdaq Omx, seeking for growth oriented job. Contact 92044603, angeline.babithac@gmail.com.

CAT (UK) , ACCA (UK) , 3 year experience. (including one year experience in EY world 3rd largest audit firm) looking for reputed company for a job of Internal Audit, Finance and Accounting.

Contact no: 00923008833525

MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. # 24793614/ 99314807 Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam). Contact 24475280 / 95371554 / 92504980 , www.siddhayur.com Taimour Ayurvedic Clinic, Ruwi offers genuine & effective treatment for back pain, paralysis, cervical and lumbar spondylitis, osteoarthritis, joint pains, sinusitis, migraine, allergic problems, varicose vein and all other health related problems. Kerala massage and rejuvenation package available. For details please contact: 92197920/ 24799689 Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis massage, steam bath, obesity, spondylitis IDEAL , CARE Ayurvedic Clinic 18 November street, Azaiba. Contact 99639695 / 99117987 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 *Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

A/C service repair RO 10/-.

Contact 95084850 / 92230581 Ocean trading is Professional in auto A/C repairing since 35 years serving with high quality & best price.24817426 & 95206751 Pest Control Treatments, Termites, Cockroaches, Bedbugs. Contact Ocean Centre LLC. Contact 99344723

A/C maintenance split A/C servicing.

RO. 10 only. # 94217681/ 99210141

Window & split unit A.C servicing & repairing. Contact 99557080

Computer service/ AMC/ Networking. Contact 91339882

Split & window A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact 96236476

AC service repair and maintenance.

Contact 95356877

Split & window A.C servicing & maintenance.#93769089 / 95323517

We offer you the business services maintenance of buildings and villas for paint and carpentry and decoration works and installation of material awater Broof and cleaning services building management and leasing of real estate . Contact 99070093

A/C maintenance & servicing. Fridge, washing machine & dish washer repairing. Painting & cleaning services & electrical & plumbing. Contact 99447257/97014234/24504281

House shifting. Contact 99708138 Door to Door Computers repair specialist laptop software Website cartridges. Contact 99199376 Cheapest prices all types window, curtains and Blinds. #99539521 Carpet & sofa shampooing. Ocean Centre LLC. # 99884591 / 92682970 Cleaning services, carpet & sofa shampooing, marble restoration (grinding) and polishing, pest control, fogging service. Contact 99448057, 95401996 Cheapest Prices, all types window, curtains and blind.

Contact 99539521 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722

Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722 Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting, Plumbing, Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. # 24810137, 99450130

GULF INTERNATIONAL LLC. all kind of pest control. #92326955 House shifting packing.

Contact 99657644, 98518013 Pest control & cleaning services professionals in pest control service bedbugs treatment, rodent, treatment, snake treatment and termite treatment, pre and post construction. #93098450, 96408964, fax : 24472116