G plus volume 1 issue 13 by G Plus

VOL 01 | ISSUE 13 | DEC 28, 2013 - JAN 03, 2014

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Pa 24+8

City Projects Business

NEW YEAR SPECIAL ISSUE City Diary

Photo Feature

G PLUS looks at the year gone by with very special and exclusive features.

Check out

2014 Resolutions Inside

G Plus 2014

Calendar Centrespread

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

City

OVER `1300 Cr Sanctioned for City Projects in 2013 W

ith the end of a year, the progress and development of any given city or state is calculated in the terms of projects completed or initiated. With governments always being accused of not working and undergoing irregularities, did 2013 bring any development to Guwahati? GPlus reviews the status of several projects initiated by different departments like the GDD, GMC, PWD, DDMA and GMDA.

Drainage of Noonmati Basin

Project started

August 2013 Estimated time of completion

August 2015

Budget

32 crores

What will Guwahati gain from it?

The project is a part of comprehensive drainage project of Guwahati city. With the help of this project the storm water will be diverted from Noonmati Basin to Bonda which at present, comes to RG Baruah Road. It will divert 28 metre cubic storm water per second. If the project completes the water logging problem will be solved to a certain extent.

Central Archive cum Auditorium at Pandu Project

yet to be started as the approval of the project is awaited from state administration.

Project started

November 2013

crore

Guwahatians will get an auditorium which can be used for various purposes and the archive will be used for preserving the city’s past.

Guwahati landslide mitigation project Project ended

July 2013 September 2013

1.5 Budget

lakh

What did Guwahati gain from it?

House to house awareness drive with a survey to analyse the problems of the people related to landslides. 6000 households covered which had approximately 1 lakh population. Do’s and don’ts of landslide related problems were informed to the people.

7.5 Budget

crore

Estimated date of completion

May 2015

What will Guwahati gain from it?

The project if completed will preserve the old DC bungalow and convert it into a museum which will attract many tourists and help generate revenues.

Metro rail feasibility study for making Detailed Project Report Project

Budget

What will Guwahati gain from it?

Project started

Conversion of old DC bungalow into handloom and heritage museum

yet to be started as the tender will be opened on 8th January. Estimated time of completion

1 year study which will probably end by 2015

Proposed budget of the study

25 crore

What will Guwahati gain from it?

A monitoring and advisory committee of 21 members will be formed which will be headed by the chief secretary of Assam. The study will analyse the feasibility, viability, costing and construction of metro rail in Guwahati.

School shake out project

Project started

October 2013 Project ended Budget November 2013

1.7 lakhs

What did Guwahati gain?

Awareness drive on earthquake and fire was conducted in 80 schools with the help of civil defence and fire department.

Multi-level car parking at Shradhanjali Kanan

Project

yet to be started as the approval of the project is awaited from state administration.

15 Budget

crore

What will Guwahati gain from it?

The traffic chaos in the city is not new, so the parking lot will help in reducing unwanted traffic created by improper parking of vehicles in the city.

Sewerage project for Guwahati city Project

Yet to be started as the project is cleared by ministry of urban development but is sent to the directorate of economic advisory, Government of India, for granting funds under JICA. If approved, it will start in 2014 and complete within 4 to 5 years

1172 Budget

crores

What will Guwahati gain from it? The city will have proper sewage system including a sewage treatment plant which will help in recycling the waste.

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

City

Clean Guwahati initiative under integrated Guwahati flood management project Project started

April 2013 Project ended

September 2013 What did Guwahati gain from it?

Budget

lakh

15000 population of the city was covered to study the problems of water logging, disposal of garbage and cleanliness. The outcome described how many places are covered by GMC and it was found that GMC is not doing much to manage the cleanliness of the city.

List of priority schemes for annual operational plan (AOP) 2013-14, by Guwahati Development Department

GMDA schemes Approved schemes of GMDA for the financial year 2012-13 ` 557.95 lakhs Schemes of AOP, 2011-12 of GMDA ` 294.58 lakhs Puberun path, Hatigaon ` 98.00 lakhs Tarunnagar bye lane 6 ` 50.44 lakhs Tarunnagar, bye lane 11 ` 61.11 lakhs Tarunnagar, bye lane 8 ` 60.45 lakhs Fifth bye lane Bishnu Rabha path ` 100.00 lakhs Sakuntala path bye lane 5 ` 60.00 lakhs Sivpur path ` 70.00 lakhs Piped water supply scheme ` 150.00 lakhs Kharghuli Noonmati road connecting Don Bosco ` 170.00 lakhs

Schemes by PWD Earmarked schemes of 2012-13 ` 200.00 lakhs Roads and bye-lanes (old liabilities) ` 1061.00 lakhs Roads restoration of JNNURM area ` 923.00 lakhs Cleaning and desiltation works ` 1100.37 lakhs

Tied schemes JICA funded GWSP Central grant ` 18736.20 lakhs State share ` 2081.80 lakhs ADB assisted AUIIP Central grant ` 1913.40 lakhs State share ` 212.60 lakhs JNNURM Central grant ` 18483.12 lakhs State share ` 2053.68 lakhs

So, the detailed study of the projects completed and initiated by the government means that many crores were pumped in or asked for to apparently develop the city. But is it only a hollow promise or a fact, only the future will tell. But, whatever the result, the money pumped in is of the general public collected through taxes and revenues.

National school security project Project started

August 2013

15 Budget

Project ended

November 2013

lakhs

What did Guwahati gain from it?

2000 teachers were trained across 200 schools. Mock drill on fire and earthquake was conducted in 200 schools with the help of fire department.

UPCOMING PROJECTS

Works to be started in 2014

Laying of foundation stone of four GMC markets in January Ulubari (` 3 crore), Ganeshguri (`s2 crore), Rupnagar (`s3 crore) FatasilAmbari (` 2 crore) at the cost of Rs 10 crore

Wholesale fish market at Senmela, Betkuchi Fencing and beautification of Bharalu from Bhangagarh to Ulubari Majhar ` 15 crore

GMC west zone office at Bhutnath Mini convention centre at Kharghuli ` 5 crore Cesspool cleaner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7 nos ` 75 lakhs State of the art workshop (Garage) at Basistha ` 5 crore Unipole at different localities of the city for advertisement ` 5 crore

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

Special

Picnic at the bank of river Jiyabhoroli

Magh Bihu Celebration

Bohag Bihu Celebration

Holi 2013

Bohag Bihu Celebration

Ambubasi Mela 2013

Artificial flood on city streets

Humid Guwahati Summers

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Special

Shivaratri at Umananda Temple

Durga Puja 2013

Night sky on during diwali

Eid Celebrations across the city

Festive shopping at Fancy Bazaar

Christmas celebration

Contributors: Rejaul Arsad, Hiranya Jyoti Das, UB Photos

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

In The News

CITY CAR THEFT DOWN BY

ere is the good news for the car owners of the city. At a time when the rampant thefts and burglaries have robbed the peace of the city dwellers, recent records show that the percentage of the car lifting has witnessed a fall from last year. According to the data available with the Guwahati city police, this year till the month of October, altogether 805 numbers of vehicles have been reported stolen, whereas the previous year had recorded a theft of 1017 numbers of vehicles, around 20% higher than this year. Out of 805 vehicles stolen this year till the month of October, 566 were two wheelers, 182 were LMVs and 57 were HMVs. But the situation is opposite in case of the number of burglary cases. According to the city SSP A.P. Tiwari, the robbery and vehicle theft cases have come down in the city but cases of breaking-in into houses or thefts have been happening periodically. Though the data of burglary cases in the city for the current year are in the process of compilation, Tiwari has acknowledged the fact that it has become one of the major criminal activities of the city.

Irony of proceedings

FROM LAST YEAR Mrinmoyee Hazarika

Yet loopholes in the criminal proceedings pose major threats

MOST STOLEN MODELS 4 wheeler

Bajaj Mahindra Bolero Pulsar 2-wheeler

VEHICLES STOLEN IN 2013 TILL OCTOBER 2 wheelers

HMV

566 182 57 LMV

VEHICLES STOLEN IN 2012 2 wheelers

HMV

739 237 41

In most of the cases, the police have succeeded in arresting some doubtful persons involved in theft, but even as the city police digs for clues against the criminals, they have to let them go because of lack of evidence. In many cases, the police have arrested some suspects in theft and robbery cases, but eventually have had to release them. “We have arrested some people when we got clues of their involvement in theft cases. But by the time we collect evidence against them, taking advantage of the loopholes in the law, they manage to get out of custody and again get involved in the crime. The situation has reached the extent that a person arrested (Moinul Haque) on the basis of the clues of his involvement in burglaries for the sixth time, has , every time, managed to get bail and escape police custody,” a highly placed source in the city police department, on request of anonymity told G Plus. In the meantime, the source had also made it clear that if charge sheeted early against the convict, he or she would not get enough time to plea for bail but this has also proved to be incorrect before. “We are being blamed for not charge sheeting a criminal on time or noncompletion of the crime diary. But, in the case of Hira Sarania, we prepared and charge sheeted him as soon as we caught him. But, everybody knows the consequences that even after being charge sheeted so early, he was granted bail,” the sourced pointed out irately. Reprimanding the lawyers who take initiatives to grant bail to the people involved in theft for their double standards, the source at the city police also expressed helplessness at the absence of a special act to book the thieves. The long process of trial has also posed a serious threat. “There are no special acts like NSA, with the help of which we can be able to book the thieves. Besides, the lawyers should stop pleading on behalf of the thieves. We have proof that some lawyers have taken plea on behalf of the persons involved in theft for free subsequently recovering their fee from the thief after his bail. In this connection, we have even arrested two lawyers,” the source mentioned.

Are there any solutions? The source at the Guwahati city

LMV

police has also cited that the reformatory justice system of the country has somehow helped the offenders to continue their offences without getting caught. “Our system of justice is known as the reformatory justice system and we cannot take stern actions against the guilty. Therefore, there should be a special act for the habitual offenders, so that they can be confined for at least one to two years in the prison. Besides, there is a need to take reformative steps for such offenders within the prison,” the source mentioned. The VDPs (village defence force), constituted with the help of the youths of a particular locality can be of great help while controlling the thefts. But, in urban areas, the idea of VDP has not been too successful. Because, the youths living in the urban areas are not interested in joining VDPs, or if some have joined them, they do not have the time to work actively and regularly. “In urban areas, we have received support and help from the Nagarik committees. But, it is not sufficient enough to control criminal activities like thefts,” the source said. Therefore, instead of waiting to be protected by a new law, Guwahatians should come forward and be the saviour of themselves from the frequent burglaries taking place at their own homes and neighbourhood.

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

Special

THE GUWAHATI DIARY 2013 A look at all the major happenings throughout the calendar year 2013 of Guwahati city.

COLDEST DAY

Guwahati witnessed the coldest day on 8th January, 2013 with the mercury dipping to 7.6 degree Celsius. This was, however, less cold than January 30, 1964 when the temperature had dropped to 3 degree Celsius.

METRO RAIL PLAN

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi announced that Guwahati will soon have a Metro rail with the Centre having approved Assam Government’s proposal for the mass transit system. “The Government of India has accepted our Metro rail proposal and we have been informed yesterday that Rs 25 crore have been sanctioned for feasibility study of the project”, Gogoi told reporters at a press conference.

AGRI-HORTI SHOW

Assam’s achievements in the field of agriculture and horticulture were on display as the state hosted a first-of-itskind Agri-Horti Expo in Guwahati in February. The event saw a huge turnout and received positive response from all quarters.

NORTHEAST FASHION FESTIVAL

The North East Fashion Festival was held in March in Guwahati. The 4-day long fashion extravaganza was held to promote the fashion industry in the region. The event was a success as it was a unique first-time event.

EXPANSION OF GUWAHATI GMDAhas decided to expand its area from the existing 328 sq km to around 2,000 sq km. The decision was taken at a meeting of the Guwahati development department (GDD)

and GMDA officials with Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and GDD minister Ajanta Neog. The GMDA had proposed expansion of the Guwahati metropolitan region area to accommodate around 2.3 million people by the year 2025 along with the required infrastructure and facilities.

GUWAHATI POLICE GET FOUR INTERCEPTOR VEHICLES

Guwahati city police added speed interceptor vehicles to its fleet to keep city traffic under control. Four such interceptor vehicles, equipped with speed laser guns, breath alcohol analysers and surveillance cameras were put into action to keep a surveillance on traffic violations in the city.

BOMB BLAST

At least 15 persons were injured, two of them seriously, in a grenade blast at the busy Paltan Bazar area near the railway station, the fifth such incident in the state in a week.

TOBACCO BAN

Assam Govt passed an order banning manufacture and sale of gutkha and paan-masala containing tobacco and nicotine. The order prohibiting manufacture, storage, sale, transportation, display and distribution of gutkha by whatever name and paan-masala with tobacco and nicotine, was issued under sub-section 2 of Section 30 of Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, in interest of public health, the notification said.

NEW HIGH COURT BUILDING

Guwahati: Chief Justice of India Justice P Sathasivam inaugurated the new Additional building of Gauhati High Court on Saturday in the presence of Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and other dignitaries of the Judiciary fraternity of the country.

GMC ELECTIONS

GMC Elections were held in the city after a gap of almost a decade. With a new ward structure, the city went to vote to choose its Mayor, Councillor and Area Sabha Members.

LGBI AIRPORT

Guwahati’s LGBI Airport was rated as the 2nd best airport in India as far as passenger services in the airport is concerned. The survey was conducted by Airport Council international (ACI) and involved 11 airports — Chennai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Goa, Ahmedabad, Pune, Lucknow, Srinagar, Calicut, Guwahati and Trivandrum.

CINEMAX SHUT DOWN

The Kamrup (Metro) district administration suspended screening of movies at Cinemax due to the failure of the multiplex authorities to produce valid licenses that allow them to screen movies. Cinemax was one of the leading multiplexes in the city.

AUTO FARE REVISED

The Greater Guwahati Autorickshaw Coordination Committee (GGARCC) accepted the fare chart fixed by the district administration. This came in as a piece of good news for the citizens who have been irritated by the over the top fares being charged by the auto rickshaws in the last few years.

FIRST MULTI LEVEL CAR PARKING

Guwahati got its first multi-level car parking located in the Paltan Bazar area. Inaugurated by Assam CM Tarun Gogoi, the car parking, which was financed by DONER can accommodate up 150 cars at once.

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

Special

What is your New Year resolution? With the year reaching an end and another one about to come in, people usually plan to start off with fresh promises and resolves. Guwahati too, with all the zeal and spirit, enters the fresh year with many promises and celebrations. GPlus talks to some prominent Guwahatians and dares them to speak out their resolutions.

“

I would like to be open, wide, expansive and more positive.

“

Adil Hussain, Actor

As the Assam president of BJP, my resolution this year would be to make BJP victorious in Assam. I also will make sure that the people of Assam get united to fight against illegal migration.

“

Sarbananda Sonowal, President, BJP Assam

All this time I always had a resolution never to have a New Year resolution. But now probably, the priorities have changed and I would like to resolve to take care of my health and take time out to chill. Don’t want to be a Jajabor all throughout.

My resolution in 2014 will be to strengthen the regional political party and work for the development of Assam and its people to its most

“

My New Year resolution is to learn something new and to get more organised on whatever I do.

My resolution is to find new horizons and fewer road maps. Joi Barua Singer and Musician

“

Ranjan Engti, Artist

“

I will try to help others more.

Gaurav Gogoi Founding Director, Farm2Food Foundation

My resolution this year is to make sure that I work hard for the people of Assam and make sure that the departments I am taking care of is doing their job with full commitment.

“

Angarag Mahanta, Singer and Musician

Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, President, Asom Gana Parishad

Ajit Singh Minister, Sports & Excise, Govt. of Assam

My New Year resolution will be to work more for the development of the city of Guwahati.

Dr. M. Angamuthu Chief Executive Officer, GMDA

“

My resolution is to give priority to health and engage in some regular fitness regime.

Tanushree Hazarika Managing Director, Eclectic Group

“

My New Year resolution this year will be to improve policing with the use of technology. AP Tiwari,SSP (City)

I never take any resolutions as throughout the year I follow the same discipline on anything I do. I just wish that whatever I do, I do it with more commitment and improvisation.

“

Zerifa Wahid, Actor

My resolution in 2014 will be not to repeat any of my past mistakes and will try put more effort into my profession. There are a lot of new plans this year. Dheeraj Deka, Fashion Designer

“

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Special

A new year is an excuse for new dreams... On a personal front, am dreaming that our project ‘Guns and Guitars’ - on which we have invested so much of passion, time & energy in the last couple of years - is going to be embraced by the audience, once it is out on the public domain. Also hoping that ‘as the River flows’, the Hindi version of ‘ekhon nedekha nadir xipare’, will finally have an all India release and will reach out to the people across. Dreaming to shoot my next film, ‘a shot in the dark’ in the monsoon. On a more wider level, dreaming of an violence free Assam, India and world - where the strings of the guitars will make more sounds than the bullets fired from the guns :)

“

Bidyut Kotoky, Film maker

My resolution this year will be to work more for the promotion of child rights for the children who are deprived of their rights. Father Lukose Cheruvalel

“

Ravi Sharma, Actor

I resolve to work harder, do things in a better way to match up to national standard.

Kapil Bora, Actor

“

Shrutimala Duara Associate Professor, Handique Girls College

Chairman, Child Welfare Committee

I don’t have any resolution for New Years as I don’t wait for any date to stop something or promise to do something. I do it whenever I feel like; similarly I stop any habit I feel like whenever I want.

On the personal level I will try to concentrate more on writing and in the broader aspect I will try to do something for the society.

“

I would be calm and live life as it comes to me. I will also start exercising a lot this year. Meghna Rai Medhi Fashion Designer

I have already started saving water, so my resolution for this year would be trying and save as much water as possible. Try and stop using plastic. I will also stop littering around and make sure that my kids do not litter around. Queen Hazarika, Singer/Actor

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

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PAWAN HANS STILL RISKING PEOPLE’S LIVES?

With chronic problems persisting, the age old helicopter service needs serious revamp and reconsideration. RAHUL CHANDA

ight passengers, including two crewmembers, narrowly escaped with their lives when the helicopter they were in, developed a mechanical snag after landing at LGBI Airport in Guwahati recently. The helicopter in question here was a Pawan Hans. One of the landing gears of the helicopter collapsed after it landed around noon. The 11-seater chopper was flying to the city from Shillong. “The chopper tilted to its left around 20 minutes after it had landed safely. There was no other damage to the machine. There was no threat to the safety of the passengers at all. We are investigating the cause of the fault,” Pawan Hans spokesperson Sanjay Ku-

mar said. However, eyewitnesses said major damage could have been caused if the snag had developed a few minutes earlier. Recently, Pawan Hans Helicopters Limited’s(PHHL) operations in the North Eastern States of India have come under serious public criticism due to safety issues. There have been a number of crashes, the most recent being the one that killed the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Dorjee Khandu and five others. Though some of the accidents are attributed to bad weather condition and tough mountainous terrain, there are some accidents, which happened due to sheer negligence and poor maintenance.

Some of the major Pawan Hans accidents are listed below. 1. On 22 Sept 2004, Meghalaya Community and Rural Development Minister Cyprian Sangma, two MLAs and a former Deputy Speaker were killed when a Pawan Hans helicopter crashed near Shillong. 2. On 6 August 2010, a Pawan Hans crew member fell 10,000 feet (3,000 m) to his death at Namsai in Arunachal Pradesh, while trying to close a door that had flung open during a flight. 3. On 18 Dec 2010, a Pawan Hans helicopter crashed at Chandigarh Airport, leaving the pilots injured. 4. On 19 April 2011, a Pawan Hans Mil Mi-17 on a flight from Guwahati to Tawang crashed in a gorge and caught fire, whilst trying to land near Tawang. Out of 23 people on board, 17 were killed in the crash, while two more succumbed to burn injuries later. 5. On 29 April 2011, a Pawan Hans AS350 B-3 helicopter carrying Dorjee Khandu, the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, and four other people, went missing. It was traced four days later near Lobthang. All five people were found dead.

Pawan Hans background

Pawan Hans was incorporated on 15 October 1985 as the Helicopter Corporation of India (HCL), the country’s national helicopter company with the objective of providing helicopter support services to the oil sector for its offshore exploration operations, services in remote areas and charter services for promotion of tourism. It is a government owned enterprise with 78.5% in government hands & 21.5% with ONGC. ONGC has upped its stake to 49% recently, a move that will see the equity base of PHHL being enhanced to 245 crore from the existing 1.13 billion.

Destinations

Pawan Hans flies to various points in the states of West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Sikkim, Nagaland and also to MHA Guwahati in Assam. While the state of Meghalaya suspended, it resumed its service on 26 July 2012, Mukul Sangma, the chief minister of Meghalaya, took a personal ride in the helicopter to check if it is reusable or not.

Arunachal Pradesh Itanagar (Helicopter) Naharlagun (Helicopter) Tawang Town (Helicopter) Assam Guwahati - L G B International Airport Jammu and Kashmir Katra (Helicopter) Vaishno Devi (Helicopter) Maharashtra Mumbai - Juhu Aerodrome (HUB) Mizoram Aizawl - Lunglei Aizawl - Kolasib Aizawl - Serchhip Aizawl - Champhai Aizawl - Khawzawl Aizawl - Lawngtlai Aizawl - Saiha Aizawl - Chawngte Aizawl - Mamit Meghalaya Shillong - Shillong Airport Tura (Helicopter)

Exclusive pictures of Assam Flying Club Hangar which is used by Pawan Hans as the Engineering room

Present scenario after Dorjee Khandu’s death West Bengal Kolkata - Cooch Behar Durgapur - Asansol Durgapur - Haldia Siliguri - Darjelling Kolkata - Siliguri Kolkata - Durgapur In northeast Pawan Hans has seven choppers. Tripura – 1 Arunachal Pradesh – 2 Mizoram – 1 Sikkim – 1 Meghalaya – 1 Ministry of Home Affairs – 1 Source: Pawan Hans

There was a lot of outcry in 2011 after Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Dorjee Khandu, on a flight from Tawang, died along with four others after their helicopter crashed in bad weather in the mountains. The Pawan Hans helicopter carrying among others Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Dorjee Khandu had gone missing on 30 April 2011. The search operation that followed came to an end on 4 May 2011 when Dorjee’s body was found among the wreckage of the Pawan Hans at 15,000ft near Luguthang, 60 km from Tawang town. Now, the criticism then was that the chopper which met with the accident did not have Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT), the equipment that needs to accurately pinpoint

downed aircraft through the use of it has always existed. The increasing use of both COSPAS/SARSAT and Global Positioning System (GPS) has highlighted the need for an ELT System with expanded range capabilities.

The promises

The incident followed by many seminars and surveys disseminating negligence from the part of Pawan Hans, and North East Council even stopped funding Pawan Hans for few days. Pawan Hans than claimed it will take all necessary steps to make sure that Pawan Hans choppers flies with all necessary requirement and better safety measures. On the process, Pawan Hans constructed (has taken rented premises for an administrative) an office at Borjhar and a guest house but not the most urgent re-

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Pawan Hans clarification

Pawan Hans spokesperson Sanjay Kumar said, “We are taking care of all the security measures and at present no chopper can fly without ELT in it.” Enquiring about the recent close shave of the passengers coming from Shillong when the chopper tilted at LGBI Airport, he said, “We are still investigating the matter and the results are awaited.” Our sources informed that two engineers, who were not happy with the facilities provided by the Pawan Hans at Guwahati Airport, were transferred to Mumbai base recently. But that does

“

The ground management of the choppers was mismanaged with poor infrastructure and outdated equipment. In fact, people used to be scared to take a chopper ride.

“

quired maintenance office. In Guwahati, the company uses Assam Flying Club’s hanger for the maintenance of its choppers. Abandon 10x10 rooms is being used for senior engineer’s office without proper amenities. The engineering works are done without any workshop, modern equipments, ground equipments and techniques. With the help of our sources at LGBI Airport, GPlus received some exclusive pictures which show that how mismanaged the room where Pawan Hans works is.

The view explains how mismanaged the setup is

not help the progress of the quality of the service provided to the passengers and also, does not lower the risk factor.

Visitor’s take

College of Aeronautical Engineering chief trustee, B S Lahkar is a constant visitor of Assam Flying Club and is not happy the way Pawan Hans is functioning at LGBI Airport. He said, “We require Pwan Hans services as it is our national property but not the way it is functioning now. The North East States are covered by Himalayan belt. Helicopter is the only solution for this hilly terrains faster communication.

The maintenance should be A1 and not A as it concerns the security of a lot of people attached to any flying chopper. The engineering service should be with modern equipments. Pawan Hans co. should give top priority to maintenance engineer, technician and their need and facilities. The organisation must follow Human performance norms of DGCA. This is required as per the norms of International Civil Aviation Orgatisation and Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation (DGCA). If they focus and develop the maintenance facility then certainly they can reduce these accidents”. According to a reliable source who was working at the LGBI airport from 2005 to 2007, when the extension work of the airport was going on, the maintenance of Pawan Hans then was pretty chaotic. The source said, “Before any chopper takes off or lands, the mechanical team used to thoroughly check the various parts of the chopper. The ground management of the choppers was mismanaged with poor infrastructure and outdated equipment. In fact, people used to be scared to take a chopper ride.” With many mishap histories in the past, Pawan Hans services are still questionable and the recent tilt of a chopper flying from Shillong to Guwahati has further added to the security concerns for the people who need to travel by choppers sometimes. What can the government do to assure that there will not be any further mishaps in future?

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

he Assam Human Rights Commission (AHRC) deals with various cases registered by a complaint or taking suo moto cognizance. The cases are mostly against irregularities by government departments. In 2013 from the month of April, 461 cases were registered out of which 79 cases were prosecuted and disposed, whereas 382 cases are under process and yet to be disposed. The cases are mostly against police, child labour, witch-hunting, crime against women and the like.

Over 80%

AHRC does not deal with land related cases and service matter as it is under the purview of the government, but if the government departments violate any human rights rule and do not ensure justice to the people then the body can register a case taking suo moto cognizance or by complaint. The chart of number of cases registered and disposed in the past is reflected in the chart below.

Till April 2013, 8069 cases were registered since the inception of AHRC, out of which 7384 cases were disposed and 685 cases are still under process. In the year 2013, since April, 461 cases

Special

CASES STILL PENDING IN AHRC FOR 2013 RAHUL CHANDA

were registered, out of which only 79 cases were disposed off. But if we compare the case history of all the years since inception, the initial three four years, the number of cases registered

and disposed are almost equal. But after that, the variation started increasing gradually, which describes that cases against the government departments are taking time to get disposed.

Categories of cases registered in the AHRC Custodial Death in Jail Custodial Death in Police Custody

Year

Registered

Disposed of

1996 – 96

471

1997 – 98

1358

1998 – 99

891

1999 – 2000

464

435

2000 – 01

272

257

2001 – 02

379

240

2002 – 03

604

231

2003 – 04

473

390

2004 – 05

397

350

2005 – 06

468

391

2006 – 07

402

452

2007 – 08

356

314

2008 – 09

314

339

Violation by Health & Family Welfare Deptt.

2009 – 10

296

307

Dowry Torture / Death

2010 – 11

264

138

2011 – 12

334

249

Indignity to Women/ Sexual Harassment at Workplace

2012 – 13

510

457

Total

8069

7384

Custodial Torture Custodial Rape Death in Police Encounters as reported by Police, District Magistrate, Government Death due to allegedly Fake Encounters as reported by the media/ public

Violation Of The Legal Rights Of Mentally Retarded Children Complaint Against Education Deptt. Violation Of The Legal Rights Of Physically Challenged Mysterious Death Mysterious Disappearance Abduction

Rape

Violation by Public Health & Engineering Deptt.

Illegal Detention / arrest

Electrocution

Police Excess and Negligence

Pension

Jail Conditions

Cases of Pollution

Violation of the Rights of Prisoners

Violation of the Rights of the Child

79 Cases

In 2013

disposed

461

Cases registered

Cases under process

382

Condition of inmates in relief camps set up during natural calamities Violation Of The Right To Religion Erosion of River and Resultant Threat to Life Ragging in Educational Institutions Hill Cutting and Threat to Life Loss caused to life and properties by Wild Animals Menace : Negligence by Forest Dept Unlawful Eviction By Public Authorities Referred to NHRC Miscellaneous It is not a question of efficiency as for disposal cases, it requires efficient scrutiny, but still, the number of disposal of cases is decreasing gradually which puts a question on the body ,which is expected to work as an watchdog for the government’s wrongdoings.

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

City

The NE book fair gets underway! 17 Lakh worth of books sold in the first three days

G PLUS NEWS

nce again, the bookworms of the city have an opportunity to browse through Shakespeare, Salman Rushdie, Amitabh Ghosh, Sidney Sheldon, Chetan Bhagat, Rabindra Nath Tagore, Sunil Ganguly, Rita Choudhury, Homen Borgohain, Dr Lakshmi Nandan Bora and many more under a single roof. The field of AEI located at Chandmari has been converted into a paradise for the bibliophilic where the 15th North east book fair has gotten underway from 25th of December. The book fair kicked off with poet-litterateur Nalinidhar Bhattacharya inaugurating it in a brief ceremony held at the book fair premise. In the inaugural function, Saraswati Samman-winning litterateur Dr Lakshmi Nandan Bora was the chief guest of the event. Consul General of Italy in Kolkata, Cesare Bieller, and World Bank representative Sunita Malhotra were among others present during the inaugural ceremony. This year, the book fair has been dedicated to the memory of educationists Debo Prasad Barooah and Dr Kamaleswar Bora, where 153 institutions from across the country have taken part. Another significance of the book fair is the participation of the British Council in it for the first time. The institutions and publishing houses participating in the fair includes the World Bank, the Cambridge University Press, the Oxford University Press, the Harper Collins Private Limited, the Gauhati University (publishing wing), the Penguin Books India and Vishwabharati. Publishers from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Siliguri, Ludhiana, Hyderabad, Patna, Agartala, Chennai, apart from Guwahati, would take part in the event. On the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Sahityarathi Lakshminath Bezbaroa and in remembrance of music legend Dr Bhu-

Maruti set to hike car prices in 2014

pen Hazarika, the posters of both the iconic personalities would be made in an area of nearly 3000 square feet with the hand imprints of the bookloving people. This programme was formally launched by litterateur Homen Borgohain on the very first day of the book fair. Other attractions of the book fair include an interactive session with Anand Kumar, founder of Patna’s ‘Super Thirty’ on December 26th, a poets’ meet on December 28th and a series of seminars from December 29 to 31 on the topic ‘My literature, My film’. The focal theme of this year’s fair is ‘100 years of Indian cinema’. Other important events being included in the 12 day long book fair are the children’s day on January 1, Northeast day on January 2, and an interactive session with Vikram Sampat, secretary of the Bengaluru Book Fair. Special programmes would also be organised for the senior citizens and women during the days of the book fair. It will come into an end on January 5.

t is only up to December 2013 that people can get all the benefits and save quite a lot buying a Maruti vehicle as the company is all set to increase the prices of its cars or might stop some schemes, which makes the consumer a gainer. The highest ever schemes in all Maruti models in Dec 2013 is up to Rs. 71500 for Estilo, Rs. 65000 plus for the all time favourite Alto, Rs. 41500 for the Wagon R and a loyalty scheme of Rs. 10000 for Swift. The company is also providing exciting and offers from Maruti Exchange schemes till December. Customers, going for Maruti in December will tend to benefit by at least Rs. 25000 more than the existing schemes. The prices are expected to increase by 5% to 10% in January 2014 (approximate Rs. 15000) and schemes too will decrease by Rs. 10000. As such customers buying in December 2013 will benefit by approximately Rs. 25000 over and above the existing schemes. According to a national daily, Maruti COO Mayank Pareek said, “The input cost has gone up steeply, so, we will have to increase the prices early next month. We are working on how much will be the rise, as we can’t pass on the entire cost to our potential customers. We will find out ways to absorb some cost and pass on the rest.” So, 31st December is the deadline to gain special offers by owning a Maruti car. 2014 might increase the burden on the pocket a bit, but still, if one loves a car, money does not really matter.

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

Business

BUSINESS ROUNDUP 2013 SHAMBHAVI

sliding rupee, acute inflation and zooming commodities prices pinched consumers in Assam in the 2013. The internal trouble, which the ruling Congress was facing due to rebellion by its own party men, has afflicted the performance of the government and the administration was seen caught in policy paralysis. However private sector continued to keep the show going on with the services sector attracting investment. Retail chains continued to grow in Guwahati and shopping malls increased their presence in different parts of the city by garnering more retail space. Eatery brands continued to do well and the presence of biggies like KFC and Pizza Hut increased from one location to others. Domain expert feels that eatery brands will grow further in the 2014. Guwahati has evolved as the lifestyle product hub. Improved law and order scenario and concentration of people from across different parts of country have seen Guwahati being positioned as a lifestyle hub. Better air connectivity has kept the Guwahati moving. Guwahati airport is the ninth biggest airport in terms of traffic. The airport has 95 movements per day (this includes 42 scheduled departures and landing). In 2013, some positive developments took place to address the core problem of the industry. State government is readying land reforms where industry will have demarcated lands. The committee constituted by the state government is likely to submit its report to the state government in next year. Guwahati is expected to add more land for industry. Investment has come in the educational sector and Guwahati will continue to attract private investors

in the year ahead. At least three to four private universities are looking to start operations shortly. The sector has received investments to the tune of Rs 300 Cr and projects worth Rs 200 Cr in the pipeline. The land acquisition for the permanent site of the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) near Guwahati Airport has been almost completed. More than 341 bighas have been identified for the permanent campus near the proposed IT Park. Initially, State Government was investing Rs 120 Cr for the project. Construction work will begin in February next year. Several star hotel projects are being initiated in Guwahati and a couple of them will start functioning by 2014. Big hospitality groups like Taj and Dharampal Satyapal (DS) Group are setting up five star hotels. DS group’s hotel is expected to become operational in 2014. Sarovar Hotels and Resorts plans to open two hotels in Guwahati and Tezpur, in Assam. The Guwahati property will have 70 rooms. Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is also making foray into the hotel sector in Guwahati. Traditional sectors of Assam including oil and tea are performing on expected lines. Next year will see huge activity in the energy front as power developers are expected to make roll outs of several ambitious projects. Healthcare segment attracted investments in 2013. Couple of new hospitals has come up. Bangalorebased venture capital fund, Canbank Venture Capital Fund Ltd (CVCFL), which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Canara Bank, has invested Rs 20 Cr in the Guwahati based hospital group. The fund will be invested in the

PRINT PARTNER

new hospital, which GNRC Super Speciality Hospital is building in the vicinity of the Guwahati city. The project cost of the hospital is around Rs 92 Cr. The automobile sector picked up in the region in the second half of the year. Guwahati continues to ride on high-end cars. Cement continued to attract investment in 2013. Amrit Cement India Limited (ACIL) commissioned one MTPA (million tonnes per annum) plant in Jayantia Hills in Meghalaya. Experts feel that cement will continue to attract players in 2014.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2014 Dairy The Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd (GCMMF), which owns the Amul brand of milk and dairy products is planning to set up a unit in Assam to increase its penetration in seven states of the Northeast. The unit is likely to come up in and around Guwahati. The Ministry of Urban Development

Telecom Sewerage project

has recommended the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) assisted Guwahati Sewerage Project amounting to Rs 1178.75 crore. The revised DPR submitted by the Government of Assam has been approved by the Ministry of Urban Development. The project is expected to start next year. Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd

(RJIL), the telecom arm of Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries has started work for roll out of 4G networks services in two telecom services of Assam and Northeast, which encompasses seven states. In the first phase, the company will be investing around Rs 600 to Rs 700 Cr, which will be gradually scaled up. The 4G services are expected to start by April next year.

Retail

The success of Reliance Trends mall has seen the company planning to bring its veggie, footwear and other retail chains to Guwahati. Even Wallmart is in the process of starting its operations.

Freebies As 2014 will be parliamentary poll year, expect huge chunk of investment in freebies. Already Assam government has sought state assembly’s clearance for distributing blanket and yarn worth Rs 100 Crore.

Automobile BMW will open its dealership in Guwahati. VE Commercial Vehicles Limited (VECV) is looking to increase its sale here. In Northeast India the company sold 200 vehicles last year and this year it is looking to sale at least 500 vehicles.”

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

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G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

Special

ARE YOU GOING PICNICKING?

A Gplus feature

After having so much of fun, celebrating hundreds of festivals around the year, today’s ever busy folks always mange time out for a picnic. Yes, nobody minds spending a day eating out with friends and family, going wild in the lap of nature at the same time. But, choosing a place unanimously for picnic has always been a headache. To ease your troubles, we have prepared a list of some of the great picnic destinations around the city. CHANDUBI

Located at the foot of the Garo hills surrounded by Assam and Meghalaya, the place has always been a top priority among the picnic goers of the city. The peaceful Chandubi lake provides everything desired by a nature lover. The lake also attracts a sizable amount of migratory birds during winter. The beauty of the lake and its surroundings has a charm that lures a huge number of tourists who visit the place to relax

AMCHANG WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Wildlife sanctuaries are always perfect spots for bird watchers and animal lovers. Spreading across an area of 78.64 sq kms, the wildlife sanctuary, located in the eastern fringe of the Guwahati city is a habitat to hundreds of mammals, birds and reptiles. Distance – 40 Kms from the Guwahati LGBI Airport and only 15 kms away from the Guwahati Railway Station.

Bhalukpong

only Ramsar site, covering an area of 414 ha within the larger spread of the beel to shelter several species of birds has been created by the Department of Forests, Assam. Over 120 species of birds have been listed in the sanctuary, which includes Kingfishers, Fishing eagles, Adjutant storks and abundant varieties of ducks. People can have great fun on the picnic along with a great deal of enjoyment watching birds. Location - South-west of Guwahati. Distance – About 5 km from LGBI airport.

HATISHILA

Deepor Beel

in the midst of nature. Location - Kamrup district and accessible through National Highway 37 Distance - 64 kilometers from the city of Guwahati

UMANANDA

For the religious people and the lovers of history, the place of the Umananda temple, located on an island in the middle of the river Brahmaputra is always an attractive prospect. Depicting the eternal love of Shiva and Parbati, the place has always been a major picnic as well as tourist destination of the city. The temple was built by the Ahom King Gadadhar Singha, a devout Shaivite, in 16811696. The place is also known as the smallest inhabited riverine island in the world. The mountain on which the temple has been built is known as Bhasmacala. Location – In the middle of the river Brahmaputra near Kacharighat Distance – 1.2 km from Kacharighat to Umanda temple.

POBITORA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

This is another gateway for the animal lovers of the city who are planning a picnic. Pobitora or Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife reserve (38.8 sq km) in the Morigaon district of the state. It is a one and a half hour drive through a road passing by the river Brahmaputa, and a small portion of the village of Mayong. The place has a dense population of the great Indian one-horned rhinoceros and the visitors can enjoy elephant rides into the dense forest of the sanctuary. Pobitora was declared a reserved forest in 1971 and a wildlife sanctuary in 1987. It covers flat flood plains and a hillock (Raja Mayong). Location – Morigaon district and about 30 kms east of Guwahati. Distance - About 60 km by road from Guwahati

The front view of the elephant made up of stones at Hatisila hill has made the place a popular picnic destination of the city. The historic name Hatishila also comes from these two stones. Location - It is located near Narengi Distance – About 18 km from Guwahati railway station to Hatisila hill.

AKASHI GANGA

Known for its scenic beauty, Akashiganga contains a lofty waterfall. Pic-

nickers throng to it in the winters. It is also a place of pilgrimage and modern temples have sprung up at this place, which are visited by devotees all the year around. Location – Nagaon district Distance - 50 kms from Nagaon town.

PLACES FAR AWAY FROM THE CITY

DISANG-MUKH

It is a place where the mighty river Brahmaputra and Disang meet and is an ideal place for picnic goers who want are looking for a place farther away from Guwahati. Located in the Sibsagar district of Assam, the area is inhabited by the Mising tribe. You might have to stay over a night though. Distance - About 10 km from Sibsagar city Places to stay – There are no hotels or lodges in Disangmukh, but there are quite a few good hotels in Sibsagar, which are perfect to stay for a day or two.

CHORAIDEO

It is another picnic destination located

in Sibsagar. One can feel the shades of the Ahom rule amongst the maidams sprawling across a huge area named Charaideo. The scenic beauty and lush green fields are some of the key attractions. The place contains sacred burial grounds of Ahom kings and queens and is also the place of ancestral Gods of the Ahoms. Location - About 30 kms from Sibsagar town at Sibsagar-Simaluguri road.

BHALUKPONG

Located at the foothills of Aka ranges in Bomdila, Bhalukpong can provide anyone an ultimate day out. The picturesque site is also a home to the JiaBharali river and a hot spring, which is believed to have medicinal value. The tiny town of Bhalukpong has a number of picnic spots along the banks of the Kameng River. It also attracts the adventure-seeker with its numerous trekking, hiking trails and fishing stretches on Kameng River. Distance - It is about 52 kms from Tezpur and 230 kms from Guwahati. It take about four hours from Guwahati by road.

Deepor Beel

It is an important water body as well as a home to thousands of migratory birds. Deepor Beel bird Sanctuary, the

Chandubi

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

THE GHY PARTY

G Plus lists down some of the hottest parties that are going down as a part of the New Year celebrations. Check out where you want to be and make sure you are not the one who missed out!

28th – 31st December 2pm – 10 pm Great Guwahati Festival at Fancy Bazar

Family outing on NYE? Yes, you can do that too! Great Guwahati Festival is a fun carnival for the family! From street food and flea market shopping to entertaining events like magic shows, gaming, folk songs and live singing, GGF has something for all age groups.

31st December Terra Mayaa Bollywood Music Live Dhol Oeadrilla (EMCEE) Food & Drinks on the House For all those who want to enjoy the desi dhol instead of a dhikchick Dj nite, TM is the place to be! Couple: Rs. 7000 Stag: Rs.4000 (entry only if accompanied by couples) For Reservations, Call : 7399027661/ 9957525656/ 9706013777

29th December, Sunday “SUBMERGE BiG WKND” at Greenwood Resort Khanapara

Featuring DJ John Fleming & DJ Paul Thomas

For all the party people in the city, the Submerge WKND is the place to be. Entry: Stag Rs.1000 & Couple Rs. 1500 Contact : 9508056795

31st December Rudraksh Resort New Year Eve 2014

Highlights: Bonfire, Live BBQ, Fireworks

Rock the party with DJ Varun & DJ Raj Also, featuring Zensystem from Netherlands Contact : 9954048708/ 8822737995

Bollywood Fashion Party 2014 An entertaining evening with Dance Show by Red Wings, Dance Floor with Pulsating Music, Karaoke, Kids show and DJ Pulse.

31st December Club Ozone Opening Act by DJ Apolo DJ Nik and DJ AJ (Mumbai) – Bolly House Stag – Rs. 1000 + Welcome Drinks Ladies Special – Free

Entry till 9:30 pm. Rs.500 + welcome drink post 9:30pm Contact : Jhonny Sinha – 9706879133

31st December

29th December

Jamaican Night and Reggae Music with DJ Poison 909

30th December

Mehfil – e – Ghazal with Dev

31st December

DJ Annie & DJ Poison 909

31st December India Club 31st December Hotel Ginger

Club DMD

Lucky Draw and lots of surprise gifts to be won. Contact : 9085080786

“Crest” – Band from Kolkata DJ Pulse Exciting games and gifts Continental + Indian Cuisine

Entry for members only. For passes, Catch hold of your friend/ relative who is a member of the Club.

31st December Kiranshree Portico NYE Party at Crystal

DJ Rishi & AB Dance Troupe from Mumbai

White Pearl Restaurant Candle Light Dinner

Live Ghazal

Multi Cuisine Lavish Buffet Lots of surprise gifts and prizes @ Kiranshree Portico, there is something for everyone. Contact : 9706098011/ 8011001003/ 8486000640/8811036588

29th – 31st December Metropolis New Year Celebration

Venue : Nehru Park, Dighali Pukhuri Paar, Uzanbazar Ghat, Shraddhanjali Kanan & Circuit House

Highlights : Art Competition Unplugged Competition – Acoustic Bands & Solo Performances Rock Competition - “Battle of Bands” New year surely is a time to showcase your skills and win exciting prizes. Metropolis is the Art and Music Lovers paradise!

31st December Illusion, Shopper’s Point Youth Konnection (DJ Sagar & DJ Suraj) SPECIAL ATTRACTION: Rappers & Live Band

THE ONLY ROOF TOP PARTY OF THE CITY Contact: 087230-83177

Gauhati Town Club Priyanka Bharali DJ Jayant (Bangalore) Bonfire Buffet (Veg/ Non- Veg)

31st December Cream Centre

8 pm onwards

Buffet: Indian, Chinese and Italian 3 course meal

Event for Club Invitees & Guests Rs.1000 per couple for Guests Contact : 9435197364

Entry: Rs. 400 inclusive of all

Time: 7pm – 11 pm

Share/Upload pictures of your party moments with airtel 3G

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

Web Watch

Top 10 app JumpCam for iOS and Android

Top 10 viral videos

I forgot my phone

Charlene deGuzman’s short film was such a stark reflection of ourselves that we simply couldn’t look away. Her two-minute short film “I Forgot My Phone” highlights typical, everyday scenarios making us feel completely guilty about our constant phone use

Rather than just letting you share clips with friends, acquaintances and perfect strangers, it lets you collaborate with them, piecing together shots into mini-movies, which can grow and evolve over time.

Epic Georgia Tech Convocation Speech

Quip for Mac, PC, iOS and Android

Quip is a connected word processor that looks gorgeous and emphasizes collaboration above all else in a manner that’s striking even in an era in which all word processors have collaborative features. It smacks of the ill-fated Google Wave, which featured workgroup document editing, versioning, chat and other features smooshed together in a wildly ambitious and unorthodox fashion.

Coast by Opera for iOS (iPad only)

Imagine a web browser with no backward or forward buttons, no conventional address bar, no bookmarks, no tabs, no home button or any of the other things you might assume even an unusually imaginative browser couldn’t live without. That’s Opera’s Coast web browser, a thoughtful retooling of browsing that somehow feels even more iPad-like than Safari does.

Umano for iOS and Android

Believe it or not, sometimes there’s just too much stuff on the internet to read every day. Umano picks out some of the gems and recreates them as audiobook-like pieces read by professional voice talent. It’s a nice way to get caught up at the end of each day, with articles from popular sources spread out across a wide array of content categories.

Jeff Gordon Test Drive

You shouldn’t believe anything on the Internet, but we really wanted to believe that NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon could show up at a random Michigan car dealership and completely pull one over on a friendly salesman. Gordon — assuming the persona of Mike the frumpy family man — starts off tepidly in the Chevy Camaro, learning that the car had some oomph to it.

Mailbox for iOS

Mailbox looks to tame your Gmail inbox by letting you quickly archive e-mails with a swipe or turn them into task-like entities to deal with later. The app’s design emphasizes speed and simplicity, helping you to slice through your mountain of messages in a matter of minutes.

Charles Ramsey gave a very candid interview to a local news reporter about how he managed the rescue, complete with a precise account of what he was eating at the time: McDonalds issued a very public thank-you tweet to Ramsey, ending with “We’ll be in touch.” They later offered him free burgers for life.

Meteorite Over Russia

iWork for iCloud for Mac and Windows

Thank you, Russia, for your dashboard camera obsession– otherwise we might not have a gasp-inspiring shot of a meteor entering the earth’s atmosphere and streaking across the morning sky. The space rock, caught nonchalantly by a driver speeding down a highway in Chelyabinsk, brought with it a flash brighter than the sun itself, not to forget the window-shattering crash.

Kai, the Hatchet Wielding Hitchhiker

Kai was seemingly the hero in a bizarre incident in Fresno, Calif. when the driver with whom he was hitchhiking went into a bizarre rant about Jesus, proceeding to slam his car into a power company truck and attack a nearby woman. Kai saved the day when he took his hatchet to the man’s head, subduing him –- and then giving a rambling.

If you want to watch game clips you’ve saved to the cloud, they’re a tap away, as are achievements, messages and your Xbox One profile info. You can even tap a controller icon to summon a touchscreen version of the Xbox One controller if you just want to swipe the Xbox One’s cursor around from across the room, wielding SmartGlass as a wireless trackpad.

Commander Chris Hadfield’s finest work as he orbited Earth at 17,500 miles an hour was without a doubt his rendition of David Bowie’s 1969 track “Space Oddity.” It was the capstone on his mission that brought millions of Earth-bound space lovers seemingly into orbit with him, believed to be the first music video ever filmed in space.

What Does the Fox Say

The Norwegian comedian duo Ylvis posed a pivotal question to us this year, one that many of us had never considered before: What does the fox say? The song, released in September, started as a half-hearted promo for their show’s new season but morphed into one of the catchiest songs of the year.

Xbox One SmartGlass for Windows Phone, iOS and Android

Singer / Astronaut Chris Hadfield

Intro works inside Apple‘s own Mail app. The top of each message you receive sports a small, expandable pane of information about the sender, drawn from LinkedIn: his or her photo, work experience and other background details, updates that person has posted on LinkedIn and a list of people you know in common.

By making Pages, Numbers and Keynote — and the documents you create in them — readily available on any computer, iWork for iCloud makes it a lot more feasible to work without having to convert documents back and forth into Microsoft Office format.

When we heard goats yelling like humans back in February of this year, we were hooked. And we remixed them with Taylor Swift, then the goats screaming like humans wouldn’t be too outlandish. It was a perfect, organic mashup of two beloved Internet phenomena.

Charles Ramsey, Cleveland Hero, Who Just Wanted McDonalds

LinkedIn Intro for iOS

Goats Screaming Like Humans to Taylor Swift

IFTTT for iOS

With so many web-based services to take advantage of nowadays, a little automation goes a long way. Think of IFTTT (If This, Then That) as a middleman that sits between all of them, letting them interact with each other. You can get an e-mail when it’s raining, save your iPhone photos to a cloud-based storage service, or get a text message when your stocks go up or down.

Sophomore Nick Selby seemed like just another forgettable face for the incoming Georgia Tech freshman class this year — until his convocation speech. Selby dropped a quote from Sir Isaac Newton and told students to dream big — “If you want to build the Ironman suit, you’re at Georgia Tech… You can do that!”

Foursquare for Windows 8

It’s one of the slickest Windows 8 apps around, with big, beautiful photos and information tiled together into blocks for addictive browsing. Everything is designed to look good and work well on conventional Windows 8 laptops and desktops, including ones without touchscreens, as well as tablets.

Gentleman by Psy

Psy proved he wasn’t a one-trick pony when “Gentleman” broke all kinds of records right out of the gate, becoming the most viewed video online in a single day when he debuted “Gentleman” in April, his much-awaited follow-up to 2012’s most-viral video, “Gangnam Style.”

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

Web Watch

Top 10 games Skylanders: Swap Force

The series that inspired copycats like Disney Infinity celebrates its three-quel with Skylanders: Swap Force, a much-refined version of the prior two platformers with new characters you can split in half, separating legs from torsos, then mix and match to unlock different abilities.

Animal Crossing: New Leaf The Animal Crossing games are about turning mundane activities into rewarding activities while interacting with cute little human-like animals (in other words, The Sims imagined by Richard Scarry). Animal Crossing: New Leaf takes that idea and lets you play as mayor of the town for a change.

Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon The protagonist, Sergeant Rex Power Colt, is a gravelvoiced cyborg with a metallic arm and glowing red eye. Tired clichés, cringe-worthy double entendres and references to decades-old pop culture saturate every line of dialog. Basically, it’s like modern video games, only gloriously aware of its silliness.

Gone Home

BioShock Infinite

BioShock Infinite isn’t formulaic. It’s a game that’s prompted more smart commentary than most games will ever see. It has a reputation for being that kind of game — the one you approach intellectually, despite its grisly facade of smashed skulls, burnt bodies and cartoonish gore. The same was true with the original BioShock and with the spiritually-related System Shock series.

The Last of Us

Without having to shoot or stab anything along the way, it turns out that rummaging for important items in a video game is pretty enjoyable when handled properly. The game’s empty, ever-groaning manor provides the suspense, which you relieve by moving from room to room, examining every corner for clues and gradually becoming familiar with your new home.

Pokémon X & Y

The 3DS versions of Nintendo’s celebrated roleplaying franchise don’t revolutionize the exploration-focused, turnbased critter-battling series so much as refine it, rendering the game world in beautiful 3D while iterating combat features that allow your Pokémon to assume temporary “ultimate” personas and battle in the sky as well as on the ground.

Pikmin 3

Pikmin 3 rebuilds its gameplay from the ground up to be easier for novices while retaining the depth longtime fans expect. Otherwise it’s still the same cute little real-time puzzler, where you lead a group of creatures (the eponymous Pikmin) through crazy-scapes, working your way around impediments and battling goofy, colorful creatures.

Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag

With The Last of Us, developer Naughty Dog crafted a survival-horror game that sounds like a pitch for an Uncharted spinoff with zombies: third-person exploration, an A.I. companion and cover-based gunplay. But the game manages to fold in a clever stealth system, much-improved (and terrifying) enemy A.I. and above all else, storytelling that elevates the medium.

Imagine the gameplay breakthroughs of Assassin’s Creed III in a bigger sandbox, playing as a buccaneer scraping by during the early 18th century so-called Golden Age of Piracy and all of that rendered in exquisite detail.

Grand Theft Auto V It’s the most refined game Rockstar’s ever published: the vehicle physics are immaculate and the driving controls are superb; the interface is stripped and clean; the gunplay and tactical cover system are perfected; and the expertly paced missions are honed to a fine, felonious edge.

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

Life

The Art of Letting Go

ELLA DIABL

I answer all your questions on life, love and sex I am 55 years of age. I want to have sex but, I find it difficult to get an erection and maintain it. I smoke a packet a day. Could you please give me some tips to get rid of this problem as it’s affecting my marriage? -Name withheld

ell to start with 2013 has been a rather grim year for many, with marriages falling apart, lovers parting ways after years of togetherness, infidelity issues playing spoilt sport etc Going by the numerous letters and emails that I have received seeking relationship advice, I have kind of figured out one common issue which faces many… that is not knowing the Art of letting go. Why it happens, well emotional attachments are such, we want to hang on to them and their memories, no matter how toxic they may be, subconsciously carrying the emotional baggage for all our lives maybe. I’ve read many books on spirituality, relationships, positive thinking etc and most of them preach ways to obtain mind control and get back emotional balance. But trust me, when you’re going through a nerve wrecking break-up the academics of breathe in, breathe out, look within etc. goes right out of the window. The reality is that we want to cry, berate our partners, pity ourselves etc. and we kinda get trapped in this vicious circle of blame game and fault finding. So is there a magic recipe or a secret pill to detoxify our minds of such negativity? Well not really! To get the basics right, we need to accept that the relationship is over “for good” and end the blame game. I understand that this sounds a tad too difficult and sticking on to false hopes seems to be our only escape, but trust me, acceptance of the bare facts is the key to lasting peace. Only once this hygiene

is in place, can we go ahead with the business of being happy. Surely, if you find the grief too over whelming, wallow up in self pity but give yourself a time frame, say one week. Listen to sad songs, stop visiting the salon, weep all day, dress up like a grandma etc, do whatever you feel like because you have all the rights in the world to be the tragedy king/queen for a week. A week later (well trust me, no one can really last that long, because the tragedy route is really very draining and boring), shake yourself out of it and believe you deserve much better. Surround yourself with the right people, well not the ones who would lend you a shoulder to cry on or listen to your sordid tales, rather smart and dynamic people, who are fun to hang out with and in general happy about life. Listen to happy music, take up a sport that keeps you alive & active, go on a bachelors trip in general do all the things that help you feel fitter and happier. And most importantly, brush up your flirting skills because you might need them very soon, once you feel ready enough to be in the game. Basically all the steps are an attempt to experience and give vent to your emotions, be it the loss and alternately the desire to move on, because to hold on is simply too toxic. Just get it out of your system and finally summon the courage to “kiss it, thank it, bless it and move on”. And each time you feel a little weak inside just remember these lines…..“Letting go isn’t about having the courage to release the past; it’s about having the wisdom to embrace the present.”

Someone needs an applaud for enthusiasm. Probably you never saw the ‘SMOKING IS INJURIOS TO HEALTH’ sign on those packets you finished everyday or may be you were only prepared to screw up your air sacks. Most probably you’re suffering from erectile dysfunction. Constant smoking can constrict your blood vessels which make it difficult for the blood to flow popularly to the penis. You should also get a health check-up because erectile dysfunction can often be a symptom of diabetes or some heartrelated ailment. We would really advise you quit smoking and immediately consult a doctor or rather stop thinking about sex for the rest of your life which, probably seems impossible in your case.

My boyfriend and I are both STD-free, and I’ve been on birth control for years but he still insists we use a condom. Does he not trust me? -Name withheld Look honey, may you need to stop trusting him for a change. It’s more likely that he suffers from premature ejaculation, which means sex ends for him way sooner than he’d like it to. This is a really common problem more than 30 percent of men suffer from chronic PE. That’s where condoms come in. Adding an extra layer helps dull some of the sensations so guys last longer. Why doesn’t he just say that? Well, lots of men with PE are uncomfortable talking about it. It’s also possible that he’s just paranoid about you becoming pregnant and doesn’t trust that your birth control is effective (or that you’re taking it reliably). But I would still go with the first probability.

If you have any queries for ELLA DIABLO, mail it to diablo@g-plus.in

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

Special

The Great Guwahati Festival A brand new experience RESTRICTIONS ON MOVEMENT OF VEHICLES DURING THE GREAT GUWAHATI FESTIVAL FROM DECEMBER 28TH TO 31ST, 2013. Restrictions and regulation of vehicles: • Vehicles coming through the HB Road from Panbazar side towards Fancybazar will be diverted at the Sikh temple point via SS Road towards MG Road or the MLN Road. • Vehicles coming from Apollo point towards Fancybazar via TRP Road will be regulated at Kedar Road-HB Road crossing and diverted towards MG Road via Kedar Road. • No vehicles will be allowed to move through SS Road, SRCB Road, MS Road, Chamber Road and Kedar Road from MG Road side. • No commercial goods carrying vehicles including the inter district buses and rural service buses except the city buses will be allowed to move on DG Road, MG Road, AT Road, TRP Road, BK Kakoti Road, AK Deb Road, AK Azad Road, GNB Road and B. Barooah Road from 11.00am onwards w.e.f. the 28th December to the 31st December, 2013. After 11.00 am, inter district buses and rural service buses will not be allowed entry into the city via Jalukbari Rotary during the period.

he Great Guwahati Festival, an initiative of the “Friends of Guwahati”, an NGO, is a four-day long festival organised in association with DC Kamrup Metro, GMC, GMDA, Assam and City Police, PWD and with the involvement of young entrepreneurs of the city. The four-day street carnival to be held from December 28-31, from 10 in the morning to 10 at night at the busy Fancy Bazar stretch of Jail Road to Silk Temple will showcase several cultural programmes. A new initiative to welcome 2014 in a refreshing manner, the festival will be a great experience for families to relish. Until now, the New Year celebrations in Guwahati were limited to lounges, clubs, private parties’ et al. Couples, left with no choice, used to go out to such events leaving their kids at home. This festival would bring a shift in the trend by opening up new ways to celebrate New Year with family. In these four days, children can come out on the streets with their parents and engage in numerous fun activities like magic shows, video games and cultural programs.

Restriction on movement of Commercial vehicles: Commercial goods carrying vehicles will not be allowed to park or move on AT Road, TRP Road, Kedar Road, Chambers’ Road, MS Road MG Road, Lakhi Goli and SRCB Road after 1.00pm.

Restrictions on slow moving vehicles:

The ladies would get to experience the famous Meena Bazar feel right here on the streets of Fancy Bazaar. Mouth watering street food, music concerts, cultural shows, game stalls, entertainment shows, caricaturists, astrologers and much more are the highlights of the event. There is something for every age group. Navneet Jain, a young businessman, is thrilled at the thought of such a carnival happening in Guwahati. “I am looking forward to this festival as it brings with it a chance to celebrate New Year with my entire family”, said Mr. Jain. He continued by add-

ing that it is a very good initiative and should happen every year. The idea is to have zero movement of vehicles by converting the entire Fancy Bazar street into a “pedestrian”. The entire streets have been decorated and illuminated to give a carnival feel. The carnival is expected to attract over 30,000 people every day. Parking, which is a very serious concern in the cramped fancy bazaar area has been well taken care of by providing space at places like the Jail, TRP Road, A.T. Road, Mahavir Sthal and LOG School.

Pull carts, Rockshaws, Horse drawn carts or carriages will not be allowed to park or move on any roads– TRP Road, AT Road, Kedar Road, Lakhi Goli, Chambers’ Road, MS Road, SRCB Road, SS Road, HB Road and MG Road from 10.00am to 11.00pm.

Parking of vehicles:

• Old Jail campus and • Bank of the river Brahmaputra by the side of MG Road • Light motor vehicles will be allowed to park on TRP Road from 2.00pm onwards

No Parking: (a) A.T. Road, (b) S.S. Road, (c) S.R.C.B. Road, (d) M.S. Road, (e) Chambers’ Road and (f) Kedar Road.

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Sports

THE BORDOLOI TROPHY A shadow of its glorious past

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Guwahati is set to host the prestigious tournament again and the organisers are hoping that this year, it will be better than the last few ones. Partha Chakraborty

t has lost its glory, It has lost its fame and yet, it has not faded away from the minds of the football-loving people of the state. Bordoloi Trophy, one of the most prestigious tournaments of the country, has now been reduced to just a formality because of different reasons. However, the Gauhati Sports Association (GSA), the host of the meet, are in no mood to lose hope and they are gearing up once again to organise the next edition, which will be 62nd edition, from the last week of December. As per the schedule announced by the GSA, this time the tournament will kick off on December 30 with a match between two local teams - Assam State Electricity Board Sports Club and Green Valley Club. The lone attraction, in the 10-team competition, is I League outfit Shillong Lajong Club.

PAST PERFECT

If we go through the football history of sports in Assam, then Bordoloi Trophy would definitely stand out as one of its most important chapters. Many interesting incidents and facts of Assam football are attached with the tournament. The meet also served as the launch pad for many football players of the country, including Gilbertson Sangma, Debashish Roy and now deceased Babul Phukan. Statistically, Bordoloi Trophy is not the oldest tournament of Assam. This record goes to the Independence Cup in Nowgong, which was introduced in 1949. However, it was the Independence Cup, which sparked the interest among the local officials to organise a football competition in the city in memory of the first chief minister of Assam, Gopinath Bordoloi. Veteran sports organiser Pulin Das, who was among the few to take the initiative to launch the tournament, still remembers those days when the tournament kicked off at the Judges Field in 1952. In an earlier discussion with this scribe, the former secretary of the Gauhati Sports Associaiton said, “The awareness of local people towards football then was tremendous but unfortunately there has not been any major football tournament in Guwahati. A few decades back, probably 1949, my friend Nurul Amin started the Independence Cup, inviting a few top clubs from the adjoining areas and honestly speaking, that inspired us to go and start a similar tournament in

the city.” He added that the meet later turned into a popular football championship in the entire state and even in Kolkata. “Initially, we didn’t have enough funds and so we requested a few people to come forward and help us. Dr Bhubaneswar Borooah responded promptly and he donated Rs 250. I went to Kolkata with this money to buy the first trophy. Later, to take care of the fund crunch, we introduced tickets which would cost only 25 paisa and we were able to make a good collection because of a huge turnout in every match,” he recollects.

The atmosphere was completely different. People thronged into the stadium to witness matches and sometimes, the queue of ticket seekers went up to the present day Ulubari Fly Over” In the initial stage, the responsibility to organise the meet were jointly entrusted to Gauhati Football Association and Gauhati Town Club but after the formation of Gauhati Sports Associaiton in 1958, the honour was handed over to them and the tournament also shifted to Nehru Stadium from its cradle- Judges Field. The popularity of Bordoloi Trophy soared in the early sixties and it continued till the mid eighties. During that period, the atmosphere in the city turned into that of a big festival during the tournament. Top officials of the Gauhati Sports Association were forced to go underground, particularly during the semi finals and finals because of the huge demand of tickets. The present general secretary of the Gauhati Sports Asssociation Ibocha Singh, who has been actively involved in the meet for nearly 40 years reminiscing those days says, “The atmosphere was completely different. People thronged into the stadium to witness matches

and sometimes, the queue of ticket seekers went up to the present day Ulubari Fly Over.” The rise in popularity helped the tournament to attract the top clubs of the country. The three big clubs of Kolkata - Mohun Bagan, East Bengal and Mohammaden Sporting once were regular participants and even Dempo, the top outfit from Goa, took part in the championship in the early part of seventies. Assam Police spearheaded the local challenge and it was quite expected as players like Gilbertson Sangma were then repre-

senting the team. Among the participating teams, Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan has the distinction of winning the titles seven times, including four on the trot between 1974-1977. The tournament also witnessed participation of a few foreign teams that included Bangkok Port Authority, Iranian team Esteghlal, Narbakhar Club from Uzbekistan along with Abahani Krira Chakra and Dhaka Mohammedan Sporting from Bangladesh. Bangkok Port Authority became the first foreign club to etch their name on the trophy in 1979.

PRESENT TENSE

Unfortunately, these are now chapters in history. Football lovers of the city strongly believe that the Gauhati Sports Association has failed to take the necessary initiative, which are required to revamp the prestigious meet. The All India Football Federation, too, is equally responsible, they feel, as it has failed to provide any particular time-frame for the tournament. Hence, the organisers face a herculean task to rope in the good teams. It has resulted in poor response from the sponsors. The presi-

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

Sports

dent of the Gauhati Sports Association, Rana Goswami was left groping for an answer when the question was placed to him regarding the revamp of the meet in a recent media briefing. He could only mutter, “We can’t change the scenario alone unless there is a joint effort from the All India Football Federation and sponsors. However, I am optimistic that the good days will come again.” Last year, the tournament was a very frustrating reminder of the glorious past as the edition was just confined to a Northeast affair. Oil India Limited Football Club of Duliajan won the title defeating Assam Rifles of Tezpur. This time though, the scenario has changed a little bit as two outfits from Kolkata - Bhabanipur FC and former champions Aryan Club along with Shillong Lajong FC have consented to take part in the 10-team competition, which also includes five city-based clubs. The semi finals will be held on January 6th and 7th respectively and these two games would be followed by the final on January 9th.

Few interesting Facts:

We need stars to bring back popularity: Singh

First edition: 1952

He has been actively associated with the Bordoloi Trophy for nearly 40 years. In a conversation, the general secretary of the Gauhati Sports Association Ibocha Singh briefly highlighted the moment of the glorious past of the Bordoloi Trophy and the reasons behind the decline of its popularity. Here is an excerpt.

First Champion: Railway Sports Club, Pandu Current title-holders: Oil India Limited Football Club, Duliajan First foreign team: Dhaka XI Maximum Titles won by: Mohun Bagan Club (seven times) Biggest margin of victory: 17-0 (Bangkok Port Authority against Navajyoti Club).

On the early days of the meet

Biggest victory margin in final: 10-1 (Narbakhar beat TRAU)

The participants of this year’s meet Assam State Electricity Board, Green Valley Club, Food Corporation of India Sports Club, NF Railway Sports Club, Assam Police Blues (all from Guwahati), Oil India Limited Football Club (Duliajan), Aizawl Football Club (Aizawl), Shillong Lajong FC (Shillong), Bhabanipur FC and Aryan Club (Kolkata).

Ibocha Singh,

General Secretary, Gauhati Sports Associaiton

It was an electrifying atmosphere. Crowd thronged into the Judges Field to witness the matches. The interest of the crowd was such that those who could not get tickets climbed the roof of adjoining houses near Judges Field to watch the game. The scenario was unchanged when the meet was shifted to the Nehru stadium also.

On the best period of the meet

The early seventies and eighties. The top teams of the country started to take part in the meet on a regular basis during that time.

A couple of foreign teams also played in the championship at around the same time.

On the decline of popularity

Several reasons are behind it. Earlier, sports was possibly the only entertainment cutting across age groups in the city but the scenario has now changed. However, I feel that it is not the prime reason. The standard of football in our country has gone down from that of the sixties, seventies and eighties. Now, we don’t have players with good skills and teams like Assam Police, are no longer in their prime.

On the remedies to bring back the old glory.

Obviously, we have to improve our standards. We need a few stars like Sachin, Saurav and Dhoni, who alone can turn the game with their individual brilliance. It is then the crowd will start to come to the grounds. The job is difficult but not impossible.

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

Horoscope

Horoscope 2014

The year 2014 would be a wonderful year for you in that you would be able to complete all tasks that have been pending for long. Much amount of flexibility would be available for you to show your competence to the world around. This year also promotes high energy activities in your life as going on an adventurous trip and the like. However certain constraints cannot be ruled out now and then. Your decisions towards home and its affairs would be taken by all without much hype and any further appeal.

This year 2014 shall bring about major changes in your personal and professional life. You would be steering away from unwanted bad habits which are likely to take a toll on your peace of mind. However you are advised to stick to your conscience. Switchover to new activities that would provide you with the much wanted deviations and relief. Your mental state would be stronger than usual during the course of this year.

During this year 2014, your life would be soft and mellow and it would flow as a river without any impediments. The planets shall have no malefic effects on you during this time period. However you need to think twice before you dive into any new ventures. This is an apt time to put your plans and ideas into work. You need to re-prioritize your relationships. Luck and fortune shall come for you without much asking. Peace and harmony shall prevail at home and work place. Your environment would be subtle for most of this year.

During this year 2014, you shall be packed with much energy and strength that you would take life in good spirits. Life would be soft and mellow with a generally clear sky devoid of rain-clouds. There would be a perfect balance of acts during this time period. You would be in a point where you gain energy and support from those around you. This is a time when you take a deviation from your life route for the better. Artistic pursuits shall give you the much needed sense of satisfaction and inner strength.

This year 2014 would be a year free from major trials and tribulations that had been haunting you for the past few years. You would be able to steer clearly through life now. You shall move into profitable territory and there would be much freedom in your life like never before. You would be given the chance to forgive and forget in relationships. Now is the time to move beyond your limits.

Year 2014 shall bring in new surprises for all Scorpios out there. A generally encouraging period that shall bring out the best in you all . You need to be aware of the changes happening around you to move forward in life. Some sort of relocation is also on the cards if you are willing to take. Challenging tasks shall come from nowhere, you need to handle them with audacity avoiding complacency and procrastination of all sorts. Give priority to your ambitions and ideals in life.

This year 2014 shall have the feel good factor set in for you. Things shall work out much in your favor for now. However you need to focus on relational concerns like looking into an older member of the family and the like. Do make efforts to detangle the lives of those around you. This is a good time to take time off for a vacation or long holiday. During this year you would be inspired to do bigger and better things in life .

This is a year when your emotions would be the highest. Feelings rather than mental and physical ideas shall rule the roost for now. There would be much success in your personal life. Do live in harmony with the environment around you. Your creativity comes to the fore but do let your inspiration create new wings of change. You are likely to be slow and steady in your personal moves during this year.

This year 2014 shall see you engaged more with your personal life rather than the professional one. Relationships shall suddenly mean a lot to you now like never before. You shall get more opportunities to climb up your social order. Listening would be your keyword rather than talking. Family-based relations shall remain stable for most of the year ahead. Your creative works shall gain recognition and support for now. But be sure that your ego does not go to your head. You ought to show your kindness in words and deeds to those around you.

This is a year when you would be able to bring shape to your long found dreams and ideals in life. Let your actions in this regard be simple and apt. Major changes are likely in your lifestyle during the course of the year. Make sure that you do the talking and decisionâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;making in important tasks at home. In reality you would face certain hindrances but let your inspirations keep you going.

This year shall bring in goodness, strength and cheer in your life. An unusually good number of opportunities shall come your way. You would be able to venture into unknown territories till now un-invented. Your diverse thoughts coupled with major changes shall diversify your portfolio of interests. Let go off the past and face the present world with confidence and renewed vigor.

This year 2014 would be highly productive for you. You would be able to meet much of your ambitions and ideals in life thanks to your will power and sheer hard work. Radical changes are likely in life during the course of this year. You would be able to consolidate some of the projects that you started several years earlier. You are in for making important decisions in life related to personal and professional life. You would have ample time in hand to enjoy life.

G PLUS DEC 28 - JAN 03, 2013 -2014

Is December 31 all about partying? st

Amit Chakraborty

Tanvir Yusuf

Animator

Student

POINT

he last day and night of the year should definitely be celebrated. There is no harm in celebrating moments. In order to signify the end of twelve months in a person’s life, people across the world celebrate the night of 31st of December. During this day, people reflect on the good and the bad of the year that’s just passed, and make choices and resolutions for the coming year. The anticipation for New Year’s Day also gets people in the mood to celebrate, which is a very positive thing. Therefore, instead of letting the day go by as mundane and dull, the people should celebrate it with zest and fervour. It also helps to refresh the mind. But at the same time, the people, especially the ones living in Guwahati, should not celebrate it a in a harmful way by drinking heavily and getting drunk. They should not behave in a way, which would ruin the whole spirit of festivity. Instead, all the people should celebrate New Year for the name of it, not to get drunk. I have read in the newspapers that, every year, that the 31st of December records the highest number of accidents and youth are involved in most of those cases, which definitely delivers a wrong message. In fact, I have seen or heard some of my friends saying that they have tasted their first sip of alcohol on the eve of New Year. Some of them have promised themselves not to touch alcohol from the New Year to come. But all these things make no sense. The only happiness of celebrating New Year or any other event lies in the fact of celebrat-

ing the same with maturity. I am not saying that drinking alcohol is a despicable thing. Anybody who is an adult or legally attains the age of consuming alcohol can surely drink. But they should do it in a way which will not harm any other person. Also, such celebrations help reuniting people and strengthening family bonds. In today’s hectic life, people hardly get time to relax and meet people. Therefore, taking a day off and spending time together with family and friends in the name of celebration is not at all a bad practice.

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Instead of letting the day go by as mundane and dull, the people should celebrate it with zest and fervour. It also helps to refresh the mind.

COUNTERPOINT

do not oppose celebrating any festivals or events. But, as a Guwahatian, I have seen that the people of the city do not know how to celebrate festivals. The same goes with the night of 31st of December. It is good if people celebrate it without disturbing others. But, most of the people in the city have celebrated New Year by consuming alcohol and causing accidents after driving recklessly. Besides, the loud music on the night of 31st

Festivals are meant to spread the love and joy of happiness, not to ruin other’s peace and cause trouble. The people of Guwahati do not have any sense of celebration.

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G-Talk

December causes a great deal of trouble to the children and old people. Even, the middle aged people who choose not to go out and stay at home on the New Year night too cannot sleep in peace, because of the loud music played in the neighbourhood. Festivals are meant to spread the love and joy of happiness, not to ruin other’s peace and cause trouble. The people of Guwahati do not have any sense of celebration. Until and unless they eat and drink heavily and drive recklessly, festivals mean nothing to them. They want to show the other people that they are the only ones who can understand the true spirit of festivity. Now, I have noticed another grave matter of concern revolving around the name of celebration, that is the disco culture. The (western) culture has already swallowed up the youth and they do not hesitate to spend the entire night in a discotheque although I have no intention of interfering in someone’s personal life. But, small boys and girls have made it a custom of visiting discos and bars and getting themselves involved in obscene situations. Some of them have even gone to the extent of faking their identity and age, only not to get caught by the concerned authority. Besides, their parents do not have a single hint of what their children are up to. Is it at all acceptable, even to the modern parents? The police alone cannot maintain the law and keep peace in the society. The people have to cooperate with them. I request all the people to celebrate the joy of festivity decently. If they cannot oblige, then there is no point of celebrating an event or New Year.

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Printed & Published by Sunit Jain on behalf of Insight Brandcom Pvt. Ltd. and Printed at Arkashish Publications (P) Ltd., Katahbari, Garchuk, Guwahati and Published at H/No. 34, K. C. Choudhury Road, Chatribari, Guwahati - 781008, Editor: Koushik Hazarika. Phone: 0361 2737737, Email: info@g-plus.in, RNI No: ASSENG/2013/52641