VOL 01 | ISSUE 20 | FEB 15 - FEB 21 , 2014
`10 ges 24 Pa
GMC SNUBS COUNCILLORS PG 02
Almost eight months hence, the councillors still have not received any funds to start work on the wards
Beyonce & Obama Catching Up, Pg 24
Valentine’s Special?
PG
05
Guwahati Going Solar?
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G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Lead Story
Rahul Chanda
GMC SNUBS COUNCILLORS
Almost eight months hence, the councillors still have not received any funds to start work on the wards
Guwahati Municipal Corporation
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municipal corporation is the highest form of urban local body (ULB) in India. Presently, the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has an area of 216 km² under its jurisdiction and is divided into 31 municipal wards. It has been almost eight months now since the city elected 31 councillors, after a gap of 10 years during the great Guwahati Municipal Council election battle. But after these eight months, the question that needs to be asked is - did the elected members contribute to the development of the areas they are responsible for? Did the elected members get enough support and funds from the government to change the scenario of these wards from which they were elected?
The start
To start the investigation we started with a popular place in the city, which is also one of the oldest places in the city. We visited the Mahatma Gandhi Road in Uzan Bazar to find out about the developments and progress in that area post the GMC elections. Moreover, the Governor’s residence is also situated on that road as well and as he always travels by that road , it is expected that the road will have no problems and the councillor of that area will have something different to think of and work on. However, as we reached the area, we found out that the major problems, which people in that area face is water scarcity and none of the streetlights work at night. We tried to meet the councillor of that area, which falls under ward number 11, but she was unavailable at that time. We met the members of Navarup Sangha, Uzan Bazar, which is an Unnayan Samiti of that area. They informed us that
nothing had changed after the GMC elections and people are still facing water scarcity. Later we met the area sabha member of ward number 11(A) Gitali Das, who is from the Congress party and she narrated her story of how the GMC treating the newly elected councillors and the area sabha members. She said, “It’s been eight months and we have not received any funds till now. Sometimes we feel that the GMC people did not like the idea of us getting elected as members of the GMC councils as we always keep putting pressure on them if there is any problem among the local people. There were many promises made by the authorities but it never got converted to action. People, every now and then come and enquire about our developmental plans, but until and unless we receive the funds, how can we move ahead towards change?”
The councillors
After meeting the area sabha member, we went about looking for councillors to find out if they had any additional information regarding the lack of support from GMC. We set about talking to quite a few of them to find out their views on the same. BJP councillor Madhuchanda Deb of ward number 17 said, “We have not received any funds till now and every time we hold a meeting, there is always chaos. Four months back we had a meeting where the honourable Mayor told us that all the councillors will get Rs 30 lakhs each to develop the area. Later we discovered that it never happened. After four months, we recently had another meeting where we threatened to protest because of this. The GMC is not helping us with any kind of funds to
Views of MG Road
develop our wards. The Mayor promised us that this time the development work, worth Rs 30 lakhs will happen in our area, but the money will not be given to us as it might get misused. We have been told to submit the project plan to our area engineer of the GMC, and the work order will get tendered within February 20th. The development work will then get started.” She further included that the Rs 30 lakhs which the councillors will get, is for the time being expected to be used for proper drainage system. Madhuchanda also informed us that the local people keep coming her for not starting the development in spite of getting a lot of funds, but the truth is that after eight months of getting elected as a councillor, she has not receive any funds yet. Enquiring what will be the councillors plan
of action will be if the development work do not starts soon, Deb said, “This time there will be a big protest if the work doesn’t start soon.” AGP councillor of ward number 12, Balendra Bharali said, “No development has happened till now as for that you need money and till now we did not receive any. My ward covers areas from Chandmari to Kharguli where we have a lot of problems like electricity, water scarcity, poor roads and many more. We are expected to submit a plan which will get tendered before 20th February, but let’s see what happens. I have done my part and have already submitted my plan to GMC engineers. Let’s see what they do.”
Wastage of money No development has happened till now as for that you need money and till now we did not receive any. My ward covers areas from Chandmari to Kharguli where we have a lot of problems like electricity, water scarcity, poor roads and many more. Balendra Bharali, Councillor, Ward number 12
Similarly, many councillors were of the same view and it is true that when there is no money, you cannot expect honey. It is strange that after eight months of becoming councillors, they did not receive any help from the local body to start what they are expected to do. One councillor on condition of anonymity said that the engineers hate all the council members as they keep getting reports from the councillors about the failure to complete work on time. Corruption also is a major concern and allegedly there are many nexuses between the engineers and the middlemen. So, why were the GMC elections held when it cannot do any good for the Guwahatians? It is only the citizen who loses, as the budget that was used to conduct the election was public money. Guwahatians surely deserve better than this.
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G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
G-View
ENROLMENT IN RURAL SCHOOLS INCREASING
BUT
LEARNING HAS BEEN DECLINING
Aser 2013 shows that there has been a despairing increase in the number of dropouts! Mrinmoyee Hazarika
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he present trend of education upon which the future of the country as well as the state depends has been a major cause of concern. The recent survey report of ‘Annual Status of Education Report’ (ASER), 2013 has revealed that though the number of enrolment in the rural schools of Assam has increased, the outcome of this learning has been unsatisfactory. The rate of enrolment in the rural schools between the age group of 6 to 14 was 95.8% in 2009 and it became 96% in 2013. But at the same time, the number of school dropout students between the age group of 1516 has increased. The same survey has also very shockingly revealed the fact that a student studying the in 3rd standard cannot read the textbooks of 1st standard. In the year 2012, 32.5% students studying in 3rd standard of the government schools of the state could read the text books of 1st standard, but the same rate has dropped down to 31.1% in 2013. Likewise, in 2012, the rate of students studying in 5th standard who could read the textbooks of 2nd standard was 36.4% and it became 34.9% in the following year (2013). “It is high time for the concerned authority to evaluate the quality of education as well as the teaching and learning skills of the teachers and students. Looking at the rate at which the number of enrolment in the schools has been increased and the learning output has been decreasing, we can term the act of RTE (right to education) as right to school only,” Abhijit Chakrabarty, state coordinator of Pratham, an NGO under which the ASER was conducted, said. The survey was conducted in 21
Percentage of children in standard 3 and 5 at different reading levels
year
Percentage of children in 3rd standard who can read at least class 1 level text
Percentage of children in 5th standard who can read at least class 2 level text
Government
Private
Government
Private
2009
41.3
55.9
39.8
46.7
2010
44.2
52.1
42.6
57.0
2011
33.9
47.8
34.2
48.0
2012
28.0
52.1
33.3
52.9
2013
27.4
50.5
31.2
53.0
districts of Assam including the district of Kamrup rural. Since 2005, every year ASER has been conducted across the schools located in rural areas of the country. Mentioning the poor rate of learning ability of the students, Chakrabarty further stated that no rocket science is required to learn the basic alphabets or arithmetic. “The authority has been spending a lot of money in implementing various schemes under the Sarba Siksha Abhijan as well as providing education to the students. But has the government ever measured the outcome of such huge spending?” Chakrabarty highlighted. It was found in the ASER survey, 2013 that only 16.6% children studied in the 3rd standard of the government schools of the state could perform a simple level of subtraction, whereas,
44.1% students studying in private schools could perform subtraction. Similarly, only 7.9% students studying in 5th standard of the government schools of Assam could perform do divisions, whereas 27.5% students studying in private schools can do divisions. The survey has also showed that the number of enrolment in the private schools of not only in Assam but also in India has been increasing over the years. “When we visited the schools during the survey, we found that the infrastructural facilities like buildings, separate toilets for both boys and girls etc are there although it could do with a little more attention. But the students studying in 3rd and 5th standard could not even do the simple and basic arithmetic, which has become a great matter of concern. The level of teach-
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The students studying in 3rd and 5th standard could not even do the simple and basic arithmetic, which has become a great matter of concern”
ing at primary level needs to be improved,” Dhrubajyoti Gogoi, regional team member, ASER said. When asked about the planning of conducting such a survey in the urban areas of the country including Assam, he said, “We have been thinking on that but, it is tough to do the same survey in urban schools and households. Because, the nature of urban population in different parts of the country including Assam are different and most of the time the urban people living in apartments are not too cooperative. We have to prepare different models to conduct the survey in different urban areas. But a rural area of Jammu and Kashmir is more or less similar to the rural areas of Assam or Bihar. Maybe, in future we can conduct ASER in urban areas.”
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City
RAHUL CHANDA
G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
City level crossings turning killers
Recently, an incident involving the death of a city youth at an unmanned railway crossing has raised concerns about the many such crossings scattered across the city.
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s a part of the major remodeling exercise undertaken to give the Guwahati Railway Station a modern look, the NF Railway General Manager RS Virdi recently inaugurated a vintage steam engine which has been placed on a pedestal in front of the station and which will showcase the heritage of Indian Railways. The YG class engine no. 4119 was built in the year 1956 and was based at Badarpur. It has been renovated for display at the Guwahati Coaching Depot. Two water fountains have also been added to the front of the station to give it a better ambiance. An enhanced parking area for vehicles has been provided and separate parking slots earmarked for rickshaws, autos, taxis and army vehicles. The layout has been designed in a manner so that conflicting cross movements of passengers as well as vehicles are avoided. It is appreciable that the NF Railway is marching towards development and thinking along the grounds of better service to the citizens and they are undergoing all the remodeling exercises. But is everything all right in the city? Are the railways doing enough to secure the lives of many who cross the railway tracks at unauthorised and unmanned railway gates?
The unreported deaths
Recently a young boy was hit by a train at one of the unmanned railway gates at Chandmari and the young man succumbed to his injuries on the spot. Similarly, there are many unreported cases of people getting killed on railway tracks every now and then. Some places like Aathgaon, Lakhtokia, Maligaon, Chandmari and many more in the city of Guwahati have some risky railway gates both unauthorised and unmanned. According to a shopkeeper at Aathgaon, the railway crossing at Lakhtokia Gate number 2 is very risky as people always cross the tracks regularly and there is no man to control
“
There have been many incidents of people getting hit by train on that particular crossing but till now the gate is unmanned and a high risk zone.”
the crowd. He added that the area is always crowded as there is an electronic wholesale market along with a vegetable market. It is also a shortcut for many who need to go to Panbazar and Fancy Bazaar. He said, “There have been many incidents of people getting hit by train on that particular crossing but till now the gate is unmanned and a high risk zone.” Similarly, there are other railway gates in the entire city, which are risky to cross but still, people do not hesitate to cross the tracks. But why are the gates not fenced or manned?
Authority speak
Searching for the answer, we went to speak to the railway authorities. NF Railway Chief Public Relations Officer Sugato Lahiri said, “Regarding the level crossing gates, the railways have a plan to eliminate unmanned level crossing gates which
can be done by either manning these, diverting traffic from unmanned to manned gates or by construction of an underpass or overpass. So, we have a plan to eliminate all such gates within another five years.” He also said that the railways constantly closes down the unauthorised gates but then these are not actual gates but unauthorised level crossings. On being asked if there are many unauthorised level crossings in the city, Lahiri said, “We are closing and fencing many unauthorised crossings but as soon as we close at a certain point, people start crossing from a different place nearby to that level crossing which was closed. It keeps on changing.”
Local authority
According to sources in the railways we got to know that even the local administration and authorities
can request the railways to cross a particular crossing if they feel that it is very risky for people to cross from that point. “We do try to close all those unauthorized crossings, but if you ask about the specific requests by the local authorities, we have to check and find out the requests made,” said Lahiri and informed that the railways are not responsible for people who get killed crossing the levels at unauthorised crossings as it is the responsibility of the people. It might be that the railways are not responsible for unauthorised crossings, but it is a concern that, in a developing city like Guwahati, there are incidents of people getting run over by trains at various level crossings. If not the railways, then at least the local authorities should do something about it as they are the one who take care of almost everything in the city.
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G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
City
Guwahati Going Solar? PRANJAL BORUAH
ity of wind and biomass in the region, not much emphasis is given to small wind turbines, solar and wind hybrid systems and domestic biomass gasifiers.
On its way to development, the city faces the prospect of becoming a solar energy driven hub with a major plan in place to implement it.
Green Buildings
A part of energy efficiency measures that the master plan has suggested are entire constructions for all the new and existing construction to follow the Green Building standards. Green Building is the practice of increasing efficiency while ensuring healthy indoor environment for the buildings by minimising their use of power, water, and materials, thus reducing building impact on the envi-
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The plan said that major emphasis under the solar city scheme should be given on installation of solar water heating system, home lighting systems and solar lanterns.”
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enior officials of the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) said that the Assam government is working on implementing its ambitious plan of making Guwahati a solar city. “Works are on to implement the project. As the project involves a huge amount of money the state government is taking some time,” said the official. The Centre has already approved the Rs 1028.47 Crore solar city scheme for Guwahati after receiving a detailed master plan (Master Plan for Development of Guwahati as Solar City) from the Assam government on the scheme. The master plan was an outcome of the efforts of GMC, Assam Renewable Energy Development Agency and other stakeholders involved. The project was taken up under the Solar City Scheme of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, New Delhi.
Objective of the scheme
The objective of the scheme is to reduce dependency on fossil fuels by 10 per cent. The plan said that this would be achieved through implementation of renewable energy projects and energy efficiency measures. In a solar city, all types of renewable energy based projects like solar, wind, biomass, small hydro and waste may be installed along with possible energy efficiency measures depending on the need and resource availability in the city.
Electricity consumption scenario in Guwahati
The major categories of electricity consumers as per ASEB records are domestic, commercial, industrial, public lighting, agriculture and others. The domestic sector of Guwahati is the major electricity consumer and utilized 39.93 per cent of the total consumption of the city for the year 2009-10 followed by commercial sector at 25.15 per cent share respectively.
Total Electricity Consumption till 2012-13 (in Million Unit) Year
2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13
Electricity Consumed Year
519
540
616
688
762
843
933
2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20
Electricity Consumed
1033
1144
1266
1402
1552
1718
1902
Implementation Plan
Forecast of Annual Electricity Consumption in (MU)
Forecast of annual electricity consumption
Based on the data of past years, the master plan has projected total electricity demand till 2019-20. The total electricity consumption was reported to be 688 MU in 2009-10. It has been estimated that the total electricity consumption of the city will
increase up to 1144 MU in 2014-15 and more than 1800 MU in 2019-20.
Solar energy
The master plan gives emphasis on generating solar energy as a part of its focus on renewable energy sources. It says that Guwahati receives a good amount of solar radiation over
ronment and on the limited resources of the planet, through better site selection, design, construction, operation, maintenance, and dismantling.
the year. “It has been observed that the daily horizontal solar radiation over the city is 4.69kwh/m2/day. The total number of day light hours as well as the temperature during the different part of the year shows that the atmospheric conditions are quite favorable for proper and optimized functioning of solar photovoltaic systems,” the master plan says. The plan said that major emphasis under the solar city scheme should be given on installation of solar water heating system, home lighting systems and solar lanterns. It said that after demonstrating the benefits of the project to the common mass by GMC, it should continuously invite applications from interested citizens and help them avail the subsidy in acquiring solar equipments. “With more than one lakh domestic households in the city, Guwahati has huge potential for all other domestic solar systems,” the plan says. Since there is not much availabil-
The master plan has suggested setting up an empowered committee for implementation of various projects under the solar city scheme. The committee may work in coordination with the solar city cell under the chairmanship of the Municipal Commissioner. It said that the solar city cell may take advantage of programmes like the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission for implementation of the master plan.
Total expenditure
The master plan has estimated that the total capital outlay for the entire project would be around Rs.1028.47 Crore. The Ministry of New Renewable Energy contribution as per the present schemes for north-eastern states would be around Rs.349.28 crores (33.99%) over a period of five years. The contribution of the state government has been proposed to be Rs.430.79 crores (41.89%) and the share of the end users has been estimated to be Rs.248.12 crores (24.12%) respectively.
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G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
In The News
Election within Congress for Guwahati candidate Akon Bora’s son wins poll to contest for Guwahati LS seat
G Plus Feature
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Manas Bora celebrating his victory
ealising the dream to give opportunities to the youngsters, Manas Bora, son of social welfare minister Akon Bora has won the candidature to contest in the Lok Sabha election from Congress. In a unique initiative, the All India Congress Committee had decided to select candidate in 15 parliamentary seats in the country, including Guwahati, based on inner election in the party going down till grass root workers. Bora emerged victorious after gaining the maximum number of votes (410) than all his competitors. The other aspirants for the post were Juri Sharma Bordoloi (215), Bobeeta Sharma (114), Pankaj Borbora (114), Munmi Dutta (75), Bolin Bordoloi (50) and Anupam Bordoloi (11). “It’s a victory of the Congress party. We will do our best to serve the party for the sake of the people of the country,” Manas Bora said. Although the other contestants looked unhappy, all of them maintained the same line that it was ‘a victory of the congress party.’ However, if sources are to be believed, the election procedure was
The political analysts and experts, however, believe that Congress’ this move will give an edge to the BJP. Whoever contests from BJP, be it Bijoya Chakraborty or somebody else, the inexperienced candidature of Congress will help in adding more votes to the saffron party. influenced by the minister Akon Bora to make his son win. As a part of the pilot project taken up by the AICC, the election took place with the participation of Congress workers starting from MLA/MLC/ MP to the block level presidents.
Earlier, an AICC note by the general secretary CP Joshi, which was sent to Assam Pradesh Congress Committee, had asked for the details of the all party workers in respect of the Guwahati Lok Sabha constituency of Assam. “This is a noble initiative that the party has undertaken to involve grass root workers. It’s our effort to democratise the selection process in the party,” C P Joshi, AICC General Secretary and in charge of Assam said. Rahul Gandhi had announced the experiment during the AICC meeting, promising that the formula, if successful, will be replicated elsewhere as well. The political analysts and experts, however, believe that Congress’ this move will give an edge to the BJP. Whoever contests from BJP, be it Bijoya Chakraborty or somebody else, the inexperienced candidature of Congress will help in adding more votes to the saffron party. The contestants also shocked many with their limited experience and public involvement. Starting from Munmi Dutta to Anupam Bordoli who received just 11 votes, they have hardly been seen in public.
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G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
In The News
GMC EMPLOYEES CRY FOR PENSION Unfulfilled promises made the employees of the municipal board to call for a strike, covering the city in piles of garbage and filth.
MRINMOYEE HAZARIKA
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n the last couple of days, the piles of garbage lying scattered around the city roads and junctions has been getting bigger. The cleaning of the city streets and the drains too have suddenly stopped. The daily cleaning and sanitation process of the city had been brought to a standstill by a three day long protest by the employees of the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) which had started from February 11th. The employees had decided to stop working, demanding to clear their long pending pension benefits. “We have been waiting patiently for the authorities to take action so that the employees can receive their pension benefits after retirement. But, due to the inefficiency of some of the officials, the employees still have not received their pensions,” Chandan Sarma, general secretary, Guwahati municipal Karmi Sangha told G Plus. Sarma also stated that in the year 2009, the cabinet had passed a pension scheme of `100 Crore to the employees of GMC. Even, last year, the
employees were supposed to get an amount of `25 Crore out of the total amount that was sanctioned for the pension scheme. “But, due to the incompetence of some of the officials of GDD (Guwahati development department), pension and finance department, no retired employees have received a single penny,” Chandan Sarma retorted. Demanding an immediate re-
ply from the commissioner of GMC and the Mayor, Sarma said, “Since the government’s promise to give us a pension scheme, we have not taken the path of agitation. On January 4th, we had a meeting with the Mayor and the Commissioner of GMC and they promised us to meet our demands within that month itself. But even after the end of the month of January, they have not replied to us. We want
to know the reason,” Nearly 2000 regular and 700-800 casual employees of GMC took part in the stir, which came to an end on Thursday. Altogether 1120 retired employees, starting from those who had retired in 1996, will benefit from the pension scheme. Reacting to the agitation of his own employees, the GMC mayor Abir Patra told G Plus, “The whole matter
is in the hands of the government and since the government has decided to give pension to the GMC employees they will definitely get it. It is not in the hands of the corporation, but I can tell that their pensions are in process. They do not need to agitate for that” While, the general secretary of Guwahati municipal Karmi Sangha had held the GMC employees’ strike responsible for the huge heaps of garbage piled up on the roads of the city, the mayor blamed Ramky, the group which is looking after the waste management of Guwahati, for not cleaning up the garbage. “One more thing I would like to say is that the GMC strike is not responsible for the huge piles of garbage on the city roads. This was because of the irresponsibility on the part of Ramky,” Abir Patra said. The strike was voluntarily called off by the employees with a hope that the authorities would understand their problems and fulfil their demands soon.
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G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
In The News
THE WEEK THAT WAS
AREIDA relieves city property owners
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he untiring effort of Assam Real Estate and Infrastructure Developers’ Association has led to the amendments of notification of reduction of registration fees for immovable property. The State Cabinet approved the long-awaited amendment in the meeting hailed by AREIDA on February 10. The amendments have also covered the Indian Stamp Act and the aforesaid In-
dian Registration Act, which had been the highest in the country. Hence, the stamp duty has been reduced. These statutory changes in immovable property taxes will be a huge relief for the people of Assam. As earlier, the total of The Stamp Duty, Registration Charges and GMDA Duty in Guwahati was 17.5 per cent of the property value. But now the picture will be different with the 5 per cent
for a male applicant, 3 per cent for a female applicant and 4 per cent for joint applicant. The Bill received approval of the Government of India a few months back, but a State Cabinet approval to it was required for the final notification. The processing fees waiver of one per cent by GMDA, for permission of apartment sale, is covered in the New Building Bye Law.
Govt bodies claim Judges’ Field out they are ready to of commercial bounds tackle flood
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PWD claims to complete pending Assam Secretariat Foot Bridge soon
T
he engineers of PWD, Guwahati has recently informed that the pending construction of the foot bridge near Assam Secretariat is expected to be completed this year with an aesthetical look. The sub structure of the project was completed in 2011 and then it stopped due to many inconvenience including
lack of feasibility for the proper uses of the location and the approval of the Assam Secretariat authorities to use the boundaries. The first phase that is the construction of staircases of the bridge completed in June 2011 under Guwahati State Road Division, but on November 2011 the area from Assam Secretariat to Ganeshguri had been
Paribahan Bhawan inaugurated in Khanapara
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hief minister Tarun Gogoi on Wednesday inaugurated the office of the Commissioner of transport, Assam and Secretary of State Transport Authority, Paribahan Bhawan at Khanapara. “Our emphasis will be on road safety and in this regard the state government has initiated discussions with the World Bank for assistance in implementing the schemes. The transport department has made substantial progress in the past decade and the state of roads has improved. But at the same time, the number of vehicles have increased and so has the incidents of accidents,” chief minister Tarun Gogoi said after inaugurating Paribahan Bhawan. The multi-storied building is built at a cost of `10.68 crore under the Assam Bikash Yojana.
Stir against CM for making false promises
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espite the promise of providing one katha land to all erosion affected homeless people In Guwahati, the state Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has not yet fulfilled his promise. Four months have passed and not a single person received the land. In the last five years 13000 families in 5 districts became homeless and landless due to erosion caused by the mighty Brahmaputra. In this regard, Bhumi Adhikar Sangram Samiti, Assam started a 100 hour hunger strike from 8 am on 10th February at Dispur Last Gate. “People who lost their homes due to erosion did not get any facilities from the Government. There should be strong security for tribal belt as they are not at all secured”, said Prabin Jyoti Kalita, president of the organisation. They are also demanding for a scientific valuation of land and prevention of corruption in the revenue department.
HS, HSLC students face board exams
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tudents are concentrating hard on studies as the most critical exam of their lives has started. Assam Higher Secondary Education Council (AHSEC) exam for class 12 has begun following The High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) and Assam High Madrassa (AHM) exams for class 10 students. While the Higher Secondary exam started on February 12, Matric began on the next day. Over 2.5 lakh students are appearing in the class 12 state board examinations. A total of 1,31,975 boys and 1,21,681 girls will appear the exams this year. On the other hand nearly four lakh are appearing for the High School Leaving Certificate Examination and High Madrassa examination. The examination has begun at 9 in the morning at altogether 833 centres across the state. The state board of secondary examination which conducts the examination has deployed over 2500 officials to ensure free and fair examination this time. Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and the All Assam Students’ Union extended its wishes to students and instructed its units to assist the concerned authorities in facilitating smooth exams.
surrendered to PWD (city II division). Pranjit Talukdar, assistant engineer, PWD (city II division) said that additional amount of `62.38 lakh for the construction of the foot bridge project has been sanctioned to the PWD and earlier Guwahati State Road Division had allocated an amount of `35.24 lakh for the incomplete project.
Prime Bakes offers Love Cakes at `125
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eading Bakery Retail brand of Guwahati, Prime Bakes announced the launch of a limited edition cake for Valentine’s Day. The special cake layered with fresh cream and adorned with colorful toppings will be available in multiple variants and flavors at a special price of Rs.125. The special limited edition love cake would be 200 gms in weight and shall be available across all of the 7 Prime Bakes outlets in the city. Prime Bakes has been specializing in season based and occasion based confectioneries and had offered pitha and laaru recently during Magh Bihu in their stores. While there are over 20 varieties of cake available in the city on standard menu with most bakeries, Prime Bakes has been looking at connecting with city audience with different flavors and fillings from time to time as suitable. “The idea of love cake is very personal and hence we have kept the size and style in a manner that is captivating for the target group”, said Nirupam Muklania of Prime Bakes who also claims that this is the first time that any bakery has done something like this.
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he district administration of Kamrup (M) is all set to strive against the city flood problem by preparing action plans with the entire public works department (PWD), North East Frontier Railways, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Assam State Electricity Board (ASEB), water resources department and Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC). Each department was directed to submit a contingency plan at the earliest and to depute a nodal officer and a quick response team to deal with emergencies. Deputy Commissioner Ashutosh Agnihotri is hopeful about completing the process within one week, so they can start working on the next step. Each department has their own separate action plan to tackle floods in Guwahati.
he Gauhati High Court has restricted holding of public meetings and commercial activities at the historic Judges’ Field in Guwahati. A division bench of the Gauhati High Court comprising Chief Justice Abhoy Monohar Sapre and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan after hearing a public interest litigation (PIL 33/2011) filed by Pankaj Bordoloi and another passed the judgment on February 12 directing the State Government to use the Judges’ Field exclusively for sports activities. Bordoloi filed it in May 2011 after the district administration denied permission to host an anti-corruption rally by Anna Hazare. Considering the lack of playgrounds in the city, the State Government in an affidavit stated that, substantial funds were invested for developing the Judge’s Field for proper sports activities.
public notice I, Shanta Devi Bhoopal, resident of Maniduip Building, JPR Road, Near Smriti Gopal Cinema Hall, Jorhat (Assam) declare that my name has been wrongly endorsed in my passport as Shanta Bhopal instead of Shanta Devi Bhoopal, which is correct. As per affidavit sworn before the Notary, Kamrup (Metro) on 13.2.2014, I declare my correct name to be Shanta Devi Bhoopal and that Shanta Bhopal and Shanta Devi Bhoopal are one and the same person.
Guwahati sees first all women car rally
T
he first All Women Guwahati Car Rally was organised by the Asha Bora Foundation in association with the Northeast Automobile Institute on February 9. The rally was flagged off from Rudra Singha Sports Complex near the Assam Secretariat at Dispur Last Gate. A total of 70 women in 36 cars, a driver and a navigator covered 60km with confidence. The only objective behind the rally was to break the myth of women being
bad drivers than men. “Through the rally, we tried to convey a message that women are capable of doing everything like men. Instead of looking down upon, men should respect women when they drive their cars on the streets”, said Asha Bora a local entrepreneur. “It’s great to be part of the rally. We enjoyed it very much and want more and more women to take part when the rally is organised next time”, said one of the participants.
9
G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Society
Seven colours of the Guwahati queer parade
The first queer parade of the region received a mixed response amidst oppositions and criticisms from various quarters
Subhrajit Roy
A
universal issue could be heard in local voices, as people of Guwahati urged with universal appeal, when a group of humanity and equality enthusiasts organised the North East’s first ever LGBTQ( Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender & Queer) Pride Parade on February 9, 2014 in Guwahati. The walk was conducted with the aim to spread awareness among the common masses regarding the social acceptance of people belonging to the LGBTQ community as well as opposing the denial of equality for them, in view of Section 377 of IPC by the Honorable Supreme Court of India. The walk started from Dighalipukhuri to TC Girls’ School Point at Guwahati Club via RBI, Old SP Office Lane, Cotton College, Latashil Field, Ambari Lamb Road. The pride walk is considered to be a matter of glorifying the seven colours of the rainbow and some such colours of life and society were observed. Colour of responsibility A voluntary individual initiative, supported by several NGOs, students and scholars of the Guwahati episode of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, educational institutes, activists and supporters, both within and outside the community across the region and country and many responsible citizens, made the event an opportunity for the people here at least to discuss about the issues and concerns about LGBTQ. Social activists namely, Jahnabi Goswami and Arman Ali were
present at the event with their moral support, social responsibility and representation for the cause of equality. Similarly, Guwahati Lok Sabha MP Bijoya Chakraborty, whose vehicle went by the rally near the Latasil field, opined that she respects individual belief. Colour of unity This extraordinary march showed the colour of unity as well. Several activists and supporters from Meghalaya actively participated in the event. Many people from Manipur were expected to come, but the few who
could make it unified their presence. National activists like Lesley Esteves and Aparajita Pandey were present in the walk, which was organised by Mili Dutta, an Assamese NRI from the United States, along with Minakshi Bujarbaruah, Bitopi Dutta, Ankita Gupta and Pinky Hazarika. The walk also unified many volunteers from NACO (National Aids Control Organisation) in particular and several other supporters. Colour of dignity and pride The event was a proud moment for many as they came out to the streets wearing colourful attires, masks and wigs and waving the rainbow flag. It was a unique opportunity for them to walk with pride seeking dignity from the society. Most of the sexually marginalised people who had participated in the walk showed their interest in glorifying their dignity for first time in the North East. Some also covered up their bodies with the rainbow flag with profound pride. Colour of Love Many volunteers in the walk were found to distribute rainbow flags and toy hearts among the pedestrians and onlookers and children observing the rally in the Nehru Park, which signified the essence of spreading love and seeking love. “We seek love, we spread love. A law should not stop us in choosing our own love as well,” said a participant. Colour of privacy Privacy always remains a major concern in the LGBTQ community as our society has not yet accepted it fully. Here also in the Guwahati Pride Parade, many participants were observed wearing masks. In addition
to these many other participants had consented there presence in social networking websites. Probably, their privacy concern restricted them to do so in the finale. Above all the walk missed many known faces, who have been working in LGBTQ issues in Guwahati silently for many years, due to their own privacy. Colour of protest and anger One week before the event, the office of an NGO in Guwahati was ransacked for helping the LGBTQ, by a group of people opposing the event. The Guwahati wing of the Hindu Yuva Chhatra Parishad totally opposed the event here. In view of such oppression, the district administration of Kamrup Metro and security personnel were observed to extend their full cooperation in this three-hour long event. On the other hand, placards, posters, slogans and poems in different languages were displayed and sounded throughout the rally, some of which said - ‘ I am straight and I support LGBTQ rights,’
‘My life my rights,’ ‘Love is a human right,’ ‘Those who mind don’t matter. Those who matter don’t mind,’ ‘Samakamita Aparadh Nahay,’ ‘Let’s celebrate differences and celebrate its beauty,’ ‘No going back 377’ and many more. Colour of humanity The entire rally was incorporated with the songs of the greatest Assamese icon of humanity Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, particularly, ‘Manuhe Manuhor Babe’, ‘Tapta Teekhare” and ‘Mor Morome Morom Bisari Jai’ along with Beatles’ ‘I want to hold your hand’ and K’naan’s ‘Wavin’ Flag’. The organisers indeed waved their rainbow of pride on the streets of Guwahati despite many odds and criticisms. It is said, ‘Coming out is a process not an event.’ Supporting this view, it can be said that this event in Guwahati may initiate the process of not only coming out, but also the urge to seek dignity, equality, respect and humanity in the coming days both from law as well as society.
10
G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Bazaar
Concerning VEGGIE-Table
G PLUS FEATURE
T
he ever fluctuating price index of vegetable market in Guwahati has somewhat come up to a more balanced position than recent times. Here is a reality check on the price of different vegetable items in different markets in and around Guwahati
Gorchuk wholesale vegetable market ITEMS
SELLING PRICE (per kg)
COST PRICE (per kg)
TRANSPORTED FROM
TRANSPORTATION CHARGES (approx)
Potato
` 8.50
` 7.50 – ` 8
Barpeta (Assam) and West Bengal
` 30,000 per truck from W. Bengal
Onion
` 16
` 14.50
Nasik (Maharashtra)
` 40,000 per truck
Tomato
` 14
` 10
Bijoynagar (Assam)
` 500- ` 600 per mini tuck
Cauliflower
` 12
`8
Kharupetia (Assam)
` 1500- ` 2000 per mini truck
Cabbage
`7
`6
Kharupetia (Assam)
` 1500- ` 2000 per mini truck
Daikon (White raddish/Mooli)
` 10
`5
Kharupetia (Assam)
` 1500- ` 2000 per mini truck
Broad Bean
` 15
` 12
Kharupetia (Assam)
` 1500- ` 2000 per mini truck
Chayote (Squash)
` 12
` 10
Barpeta (Assam)
` 2000 per mini truck
Chilli
` 20
` 14- ` 16
Nagarbera (Assam)
` 2000 per mini truck
Ginger
` 80
` 70
Hahim (Assam)
` 2000 per mini truck
Garlic
` 60
` 45
Uttar Pradesh
` 30,000 per truck
Fancy Bazaar GMC wholesale market complex ITEMS
SELLING PRICE (per kg)
COST PRICE (per kg)
TRANSPORTED FROM
TRANSPORTATION CHARGES (approx)
Potato
` 8.50
` 7- ` 8
Barpeta (Assam) and West Bengal
` 30,000 per truck from W. Bengal
Onion
` 17
` 14- ` 15
Nasik (Maharashtra)
` 30,000 per truck
Tomato
` 16
` 10- ` 12
Ramdia (Assam)
` 500- ` 1000 per mini tuck
Cauliflower
` 12
` 10
Kharupetia (Assam)
` 1500 per mini truck
Cabbage
`7
` 5- ` 6
Kharupetia (Assam)
` 1500- ` 2000 per mini truck
Daikon (White raddish/Mooli)
`9
`8
Kharupetia (Assam)
` 1500- ` 2000 per mini truck
Broad Bean
` 16
` 15
Kharupetia (Assam)
` 1500- ` 2000 per mini truck
Chayote (Squash)
` 14
` 13
Barpeta (Assam)
` 2000 per mini truck ` 2000 per mini truck
Chilli
` 20
` 14- ` 15
Kharupetia/ Nagarbera (Assam)
Ginger
` 90
` 80
Hahim (Assam)
` 2000 per mini truck
Garlic
` 60
` 50- ` 60
Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh)
` 30,000 per truck
According to the wholesalers, one of the concern among few others for price fluctuation is the reason that a huge amount of money is being taken by the officials at highway chekposts. One wholesaler at Gorchuk market has alleged that each checkpost from Barpeta to Guwahati charges the truck drivers with `50 to `200. The other reasons responsible for price index fluctuation of veggies depends on factors such as cultivation, weather conditions, natural calamities, political strikes and others. With all said and done, the average regular customer’s only major concern is to get healthy veggies at reasonable price. Here is a list of few of the major markets in Guwahati and its prices:
Food Items
Beltola Charali Market: Selling Price of Items (per kg)
Ganeshguri Market: Selling Price of Items (per kg)
Lakhtokia Road Market: Selling Price of Items (per kg)
Maligaon Bara Bazar: Selling Price of Items (per kg)
Big Bazar Supermarket, Bhangagarh: Selling Price of Items (per kg)
Potato
` 12
` 15
` 10
` 10- ` 12
` 10
Onion
` 20
` 25
` 20
` 20
` 20
Tomato
` 20
` 25
` 20
` 20- ` 25
` 18
Cauliflower
` 20
` 20
` 15
` 16- ` 20
` 15
Cabbage
` 10- ` 12
` 10
` 10
` 8- ` 10
`8
Daikon (White raddish/Mooli)
` 15
` 20
` 10
NA
` 15
Broad Bean
` 20
` 30
` 20
` 25- ` 30
` 25
Chayote (Squash)
` 20
` 20
` 15
` 16- ` 20
` 30 ` 39
Chilli
` 30
` 60
` 30
` 30
Ginger
` 90- ` 100
` 120
` 100
` 100
` 89
Garlic
` 70- ` 80
` 90- ` 100
` 80
` 100
` 89
Green indicates the lowest price of a specific item.
Red indicates the highest price of a specific item.
One wholesaler at Gorchuk market has alleged that each checkpost from Barpeta to Guwahati charges the truck drivers with `50 to `200.
It is to be found out that the Ganeshguri vegetable market has the highest selling average price of vegetable items in comparison to other markets in Guwahati. The Ganeshguri market and Lakhtokia Road market buys most of its vegetable items from Fancy Bazar GMC market complex whereas Beltola Charali Market buys its items from Garchuk wholesale vegetable market. Maligaon bara Bazar relies on both Garchuk wholesale market and Fancy Bazar GMC market. Big Bazar supermarket has however got its own contract based wholesaler at Athgaon, Guwahati.
11
G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Business
More than 7 lakh vehicles registered GPLUS NETWORK
T
he Assam government has stated that in the last 4-5 years, the number of vehicles of all segments has crossed over 7.09 lakh units currently. The Assam Transport Minister Chandan Brahma said the District Transport Office in Guwahati has registered a total of 7, 09,363 units of vehicles from all segments. Of these, 2, 46,332 units are light vehicles and 3, 76,002 units are twowheelers. Besides, 64,305 trucks, 7,113 buses and 15,611 autorikshaws are registered in Guwahati. Brahma said that the government has received `672.11 crore between 2002 and December 2013. The annual revenue collection has been
constantly rising from `45.02 crore in 2008-2009 to `102.08 crore in last financial year. In the first nine months of the current fiscal, `78.07 crore of revenue has been collected. The government admitted that there is lack of adequate parking space in the city, which is causing traffic snarls. The minister added, “Only one multi-level parking facility is available in Guwahati, accommodating 200 cars. Availability of land for developing parking space is an issue. The Transport Department is at present involved in preparing a master plan for Guwahati along with GMC, GMDA and GDD.”
Gutkha ban comes into force GPLUS NETWORK
F
inally, after months of wrangling, manufacturing and use of non- smoking tobacco products in Assam has been banned in Assam. However will the law will be firmly implemented as the neighbouring states are yet to ban it. The government has notified the Assam Health (Prohibition of Manufacturing, Trade, Advertisement, Storage, Distribution, Sale and Consumption of Zarda, Gutkha, Pan masala Containing Tobacco) Bill 2013.The bill was introduced in July last year. Assam health and family welfare minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “We have received the Governor’s assent to the Bill. All non-smoking tobacco products will be banned in Assam.” Earlier the legislative department had stated the bill prohibiting manufacture, advertisement, trade, storage,
distribution, sale and consumption of zarda, Gutkha, panmasala containing tobacco will require presidential assent while health department has argued that as tobacco is a state subject, it does not require President’s assent. The state government in March this year invoked the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on sales) Regulation, 2011 to ban sale, transportation, manufacture, storage and display or distribution of gutkha and pan masala containing nicotine and tobacco in the state with immediate effect. Implementation of the bill will result in a financial loss of `20 Crore annually to the state exchequer. The act empowers police officers not below the rank of Sub inspector to enter, search, seize of the entire quantity of tobacco that may be stored for manufacture, trade, distribution, sale, consumption.
Dragon invades the NE
GPLUS NETWORK
F
oreign investors are now showing interest in the cement sector of Assam. Bhutan’s Dungsam Cement Corporation Limited has made the foray into the Northeastern market and the company is selling cement under the brand name of Dragon Cement here. Dragon is eyeing the North-East states, North-Bengal and East Bihar. DCCL is incorporated under the Companies Act 2000 of the Kingdom of Bhutan as a wholly owned subsidiary of Druk Holdings & Investments, an undertaking of Royal Government of Bhutan. Dorji Norbu, Managing Director of Dungsam Cement said that considering its huge production capacity and the Bhutan market being relatively small market, DCCL intend to sell about 70-80% of its cement to the In-
Dorji Norbu, Managing Director of Dungsam Cement and other officials of Bhutan addressing the press in Guwahati. dian market. Norbu added “We are producing 4130 tons of cement daily. We have invested close to `1088 crore in this venture. The plant is located at Chengkari, Nganglam, Pemagatshel Dzongkhag in eastern Bhutan at an approximate
BIG DEAL
Now at `300
distance of about 150 km North West of Guwahati, Assam. We obtained necessary license to market cement in Indian market in January 2014.” DCCL has launched three types of cement: OPC 43 Grade, PPC, and PSC depending on the market demand.
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12
G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Food
The Big, Fat Breakfast |
Sanjukta Dutta food enthusiast BREAKFAST - THE MOST IMPORTANT MEAL OF THE DAY
I
grew up in a family where food was always at the highest pedestal of priorities and breakfast was the most important of all. And I got married into one, where food ruled and food made the rules. One fine winter Sunday morning, the demand for breakfast was tremendous and I was in the mood to cook. I looked around the refrigerator and found a rack of pork ribs and so, I decided to roast the beautiful rack in a ‘wok’. Trust me, it is easy and even students living in the city can make it. So here is the recipe and the procedure that follows. The instructions for creating this plate of gluttony breakfast are very simple and the meal is simply awesome.
YOU WILL REQUIRE: 1. Rack of Pork Ribs of 100 gms approx. 2. Sausages (chicken). Normally the frozen ones are found abundantly around the city shops. 3. A cup of boiled green peas and beans 4. 2 eggs (poached with sunny side up) 5. Dark Soya sauce (1 tablespoon) 6. Salt and Pepper (for seasoning) 7. All purpose Classic Seasoning (available in the markets, supermarkets like Big Bazaar, Tanz, Nayantara etc) 8. Ginger-Garlic paste (a teaspoon full) Pork ribs with eggs and sausages
How to go about it! 1. Wash the pork ribs and pat it dry. Sprinkle salt and pepper and rub the ginger-garlic paste and keep it aside. 2. Now in a wok (kadhai with a deep bottom), add about 1 cup of water and let it warm up in medium heat. 3. Place the pork rib in it and cover it with a lid. Let it cook for some time. 4. Keep a tab on the pork as it may stick to the bottom. To avoid that keep flipping the sides and this would also ensure even cooking 5. The pork ribs will be cooked with the water and the oil that the meat gives out. 6. About good 20-25 minutes the pork will be now tender and will give a good golden colour. Take the pork out in a plate. 7. In a frying pan, in medium heat sprinkle some
refined oil and as it heats up, throw in the cooked pork. Now, add the dark soya sauce (for colour and the insinuation). Add some salt and pepper if required and before serving sprinkle the all purpose seasoning all over the meat 8. Now, in the same pan over the remaining oil, poach eggs as per your preference. I have poached 2 eggs with sunny side up. Carefully place it in the plate. 9. Place the sausages in some water and let it boil (I like doing my sausages this way). After the water is hot enough, take the sausages out and shallow fry it till the skin looks golden in colour. Place the sausages in the plate. 10. Now, add the boiled vegetables (peas and beans) seasoned with salt and pepper.
This enormous plate loaded with calories can be served with bread (garlic bread, masala bread, brown bread etc) and while you eat this, keep the count of calories at bay. This plate is definitely not for daily consumption. But once a while, when I make this breakfast, it fetches me some great compliments from family and friends. What else would a self styled cook like me want more?
Calorie Count (approx)
280 calories Chicken sausages – 70 per serving Poached eggs – 77 per serving Cup of boiled peas and beans – 157 calories
• A rack of pork ribs – • • •
13
G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Health
Generic versus branded drugs: The battle continues Dr.Bikash Rai Das Consultant Cardiac Surgeon
A
ccessibility to quality, affordable medicines has always been a major cause of concern in India. To provide quality drugs at low cost to the common man always has been a challenge to everyone. A generic drug is a bioequivalent of a drug with a brand name, also called an innovator drug. It may look different from the innovator drug but will have the same properties. Generic medicines cost 30%-60% less than branded drugs. A branded drug can be 10 times more expensive than a generic variant sometimes. We can’t deny the drastic price differences between the average market price of generic drugs and branded medicines. The table below will highlight the same fact.
Name of Medicine
Ciprofloxacin Ciprofloxacin Diclofenac SR Cetrizine Paracetamol Nimesulide Cough Syrup
Dosage
250mg 500mg 100mg 10mg 500mg 100mg 110ml
Big pharmaceuticals often sell both branded and generic medicines and the price difference is marginal. The idea is to maintain a monopoly, so the government needs to be careful about this.
Average Market Price of Branded Price of Generic Medicines (Rs) Medicines (Rs)
55 97 52 37 14 39 33
11 21 3 3 2 3 13
(Source: Press Information Bureau)
The above table shows that prices of generic medicines are remarkably low compared with the branded drugs that are often purchased from a drug store. The price difference results from the marketing and research expenses that manufacturers incur on branded medicines. The Union government and regulatory bodies appear to be serious in ending the pharma-doctor nexus and curb unethical marketing practices. In its latest effort, the Medical Council of India has directed doctors, hospitals and medical colleges to prescribe generic medicines as far as possible. Generic medicines are more affordable versions of branded medicines sold by companies. In its directive dated January 21 to the principals of medical colleges, director of hospitals and presidents of all state medical councils, the MCI has said that every physician should, as far as possible, prescribe drugs with generic names and ensure that there is a rational prescription and use of drugs. All doctors registered under the MCI act have been asked to comply with the directive.
Over the past couple of years, there have been a slew of efforts to curb unethical marketing practices followed by pharma companies, end the use of branded drugs and bring down the prices of medicines. Though the government has opened the retail store, which market generic medicines, “Jan Aushadhi” in certain states, availability of quality generic medicines is a huge concern. Doctors are of the view that the focus should be on the quality of the drugs prescribed. For the benefit of patients and to get the best possible results, highest quality drugs with best possible pharmacological properties should be used by all doctors. If the quality of generic drugs is up to high standards, doctors should prescribe generic medicines. The medical fraternity fears that this directive of generic medicines can’t be incorporated unless stricter quality control norms are in place. Measures are needed to build confidence about the efficacy of nonbranded medicines if they are to compete with multinational drugs that now enjoy a near monopoly.
Industry experts, however, is of the opinion that the move may not benefit patients as it may not lead to a significant price reduction. Only if the government is able to ensure the quality of generic medicines, then it will be beneficial. As patients do not know about the quality of medicines and will have to depend on chemists, it may lead to a chemist-pharma nexus from the much-discussed nexus between pharma companies and doctors. Since it will now be up to medicine shops to pick a particular drug for the buyers, there could be an attempt to influence them. If that happens, the very purpose of introducing generic medicines will be defeated. Last year, in a bid to promote generic medicines, the health ministry ordered states to stop issuing licenses in brand names. The move has not benefitted patients much as companies continue to market the medicines in brand names. Also, concerned with increasing complaints of unethical marketing practices, the department of pharmaceuticals initiated an exercise to introduce a code of conduct for the pharma industry, which is yet to be finalized. There is skepticism about generic drugs which can be removed through a few simple measures. First, a cap should be put on the number of generic brands for each group of medicine that can be sold. Then, periodic inspections should be conducted to make sure that they meet the quality specifications. Local manufacturers, too, must be asked to stick to good manufacturing practices. Those who fail should be blacklisted. A price range should be fixed for all generic medicines now so that manufacturers can’t revise costs and nullify the price advantage later. Generic medicines will have to ride on
their cheaper tag to make inroads initially. Ideally, there shouldn’t be any qualitative difference between a branded and a generic medicine. But unscrupulous manufacturers might try to pass off poor quality stuff in the absence of regular monitoring. So, we need to have a certain number of manufacturers who would be accredited and licensed by the government to manufacture generic drugs. Big pharmaceuticals often sell both branded and generic medicines and the price difference is marginal. The idea is to maintain a monopoly, so the government needs to be careful about this. Generic medicines have a few inherent disadvantages, too. Several generic drugs were still not available in the market. More importantly, combination drugs can’t be prescribed without a brand name. We would need two or more generic medicines as substitutes, which is not advisable. A wider range of drugs is needed to effectively replace brands. As per MCI rules, doctors are supposed to maintain treatment record of every patient for 3 years, something which is rarely done. If this is made compulsory, it will provide an idea about the efficacy of drugs. This will, at least, help to screen the quality of drugs. A World Health Organization study recently found that generic medicines were available only in 20%-
40% of public health clinics surveyed. In comparison, 40%-60% of private health facilities had adequate stock of generic drugs. The sub-national surveys were carried out in Chennai, Haryana, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Rajasthan and West Bengal. WHO said, “More than half of public facilities lack essential medicines.” Around 78% of healthcare expenditure in India is out-of-pocket of which 72% is spent on medicines. National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO) records show that the highest out-of-pocket expenditure on drugs is in Himachal Pradesh (87.95%), followed by Uttarakhand (87.75%), Bihar (84%), Rajasthan (83%), Uttar Pradesh (81.86%) and Chhattisgarh (81.38%). In larger states like Maharashtra 60% of out-of-pocket expenses are for buying drugs, Karnataka (65%), Delhi (74%), Tamil Nadu (66%), Madhya Pradesh (71%) and West Bengal (65.80%).So, till the time the availability and efficacy of generic medicines are proved and they are properly regulated by stricter regulatory guidelines by the competent authorities, it will be futile to start this latest trend of prescribing generic drugs in a hurry. We should proceed with concern and care till that time. But it can be expected safely that in longer period of time it will definitely be quite beneficial to the poor and the needy people in saving lives, which is priceless.
14
G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Life
Valentine’s Day Side Effects RAHUL CHANDA
least respecting the effort made by that individual to buy something special. Finally what happens is that the gift gets dumped into a dustbin or even worse, sometimes thrown on the face.
The liars
To make the day special and full of surprises, people plan various ways to be together at least once in a day with their partners or someone they see as their partner in the future. The young school and college going kids bunk their classes, most of the offices looks empty with bosses cursing the essence of the day. In India, there are fundamental groups who roam around in big groups keeping an eye on the couples having fun on Valentine’s Day, and if they get hold of any of them, they thrash them, inform their parents and make
them feel as embarrassed as possible. What is the main idea behind it, it’s only for the fundamentalists to explain. Whatever be the obstacle, the love birds face all of it - lie to their parents, friends, bosses, teachers and even the special someone if he/she is not there in one’s life yet, to make it sure that the special someone feels good about the effort taken to make that day special. Wooing ideas starts rotating and revolving around the lover boys/girls brain so that the day makes a mark and an impression on the someone special’s heart. But does it really happen? Does everyone get to celebrate the day with the same joy and fervour as others do? The idea of the day is to celebrate love, but does everyone celebrate love or some do celebrate betrayal too?
Valentine’s Day might not be perfect for everyone and love might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
V
alentine’s Day is popular all around the world and has been increasing in popularity in India in recent years. Many people in the world, including India, put aside this one day of the year – February the 14th to celebrate love. Images of cupids, hearts, roses and love-birds are seen everywhere on this day. No doubt there is a lot of excitement especially among the youths, to celebrate the day with their partners, but is the day shaping up pretty well for everyone? Are there any sideeffects for some? Guwahati, like any other city in India, is never behind in any celebration. Youths out here too come up with various creative ideas to bunk classes, take a break from busy office schedules and do everything possible to spend some time with their ‘special someone.’ But there are also a large number of people who get hurt and become depressed for not being able to do what others do on this day.
Rejected hearts
As the day comes after a week which is divided into other activities like rose day, chocolate day, hug day and other weird names, many people
plan the entire week in such a manner that they can succeed in wooing someone special. And if that someone special is not there in their lives, they try and do almost everything to get one. A 25-years-old advertising professional narrated how someone had tried his best to woo her, but ended with another hole in his heart. She said, “There was a guy who was a good friend of mine but once during the Valentine’s week, he started behaving very differently and came up with unique ideas like getting flowers for me on the rose day, sending a big chocolate cake to my place on the chocolate day and so on. I felt that his approach towards me has changed and he proved it on Valentine’s Day when he let it out. Finally, he confessed to me.” She further explained that she had to reject the proposal as she knew that her parents would never allow her to be engaged to a guy in a relationship, who was from a different cast. This was just a single story and there are numerous others where people get disappointed. Some people save money the entire year to buy a gift for someone. They should be at
You know its love when you have been saying good bye for the last half hour and you are still not ready to leave them - Ruban Oberoi The frozen mist that makes your hand go shiver in the early winter morning when u step to the outside world only able to realize that the dense fog has hidden every material thing and u badly want to go back to bed and feel the warm of blanket, thinking about the person you love, is the moment of beauty at its best......- Abhishek jain Love is absolute loyalty. People fade, looks fade, but loyalty never fades. You can depend so much on certain people; you can set your watch by them. And that’s love, even if it doesn’t seem very exciting.” - Rahul Kashliwal “Anyone can love a rose, but it takes a great deal to love a leaf. It’s ordinary to love the beautiful, but it’s beautiful to love the ordinary.”- Reema Gangwal Everyone says that love hurts, but that’s not true. Loneliness hurts. Rejection hurts. Losing someone hurts. Everyone confuses these things with love. But in reality, LOVE is the only thing that covers up all the pain and makes us feel wonderful again. - Bharti Kanoria I’ve forgotten how the sun swelled up right from the horizon from the far far seas. I know of only this woman now, whose face I’ve lived to see every day. It brought the most magnificent day, every day, to my life. I have forgotten the sound of the chirruping of the birds which sat at my window every morning to wake me up. I now know only the sound of those footsteps, decibels of which increased with every step she took closer to me. Her anklets made a sound that became my anthem. The smile which once had the affect to spur life into the dead have today left me still. It was a spell, it couldn’t have been anything else. Lost in the time of the universe, I love you. - Abhishek Swami To love U is Melody.... To see U Happy is Blissfulness.... To have met U is Destiny... To love U is Pride.... – Jyoti Sharma
15
G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Life
ritu gupta
P
eer pressure is the influence the peer group has over an individual forcing him to do things to sustain in that particular group. Making decisions on your own is hard enough, but when other people get involved and try to pressurise you one way or another, it can be even harder. People who are your age, like your classmates, are called peers. When they try to influence how you act, to get you to do something, it’s called peer pressure. Peers become an important part during adolescence and peer pressure is called a hallmark of an adolescent experience. Why Do People Give in to Peer Pressure? Some kids give in to peer pressure because they want to be liked, to fit in, or because they worry that other kids might make fun of them if they don’t go along with the group. Others go along because they are curious to try something new that others are doing. The idea that “everyone’s doing it” can influence some kids to leave their better judgment, or their common sense, behind.
Positive influence
Peers influence your life every day. You tend to learn from them and they learn from you. This process is a con-
PEER PRESSURE Help your children deal with it
Communicate with your child
tinuous process till we are surrounded by them. Peers can also be a positive influence on each other. Maybe a student in your science class taught you an easy way to remember the planets in the solar system or someone on the soccer team taught you a cool trick with the ball. You might admire a friend who is always a good sport and try to be more like him or her. Maybe you got others excited about your new favorite book, and now everyone’s reading it. These are examples of how
peers positively influence each other every day.
Negative influence
Sometimes peers influence each other in negative ways. For example, a few kids in school might try to get you to bunk class with them, your soccer friend might try to convince you to be mean to another player and never pass her the ball, or a kid in the neighborhood might want you to shoplift with him.
Being a teenager is often a dance of push and pull. “Adolescents want to be independent and dependent at the same time,” says Benjamin Siegel, MD, pediatrician and fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ committee on the psychosocial aspects of child & family health. “On one hand, they want to assert their independence. On the other, they need their parents.” Your teen probably feels intense pressure to fit in. She may not know how to talk about it. She may not talk much at all. It may take extra effort to connect with her, but chances are she hopes you will. “The more we understand what kids are going through, the more empathic we can be towards them,” says Siegel.” Kids need friends. Building relationships is an important part of their development,” he says, and parents have a role in this learning process. You know that relationships are often messy. Your child may not have figured that out yet. Siegel suggests frequent conversations that will help your child develop friendship skills. Open with questions such as: What
do you like about your friend? What are you getting out of the friendship? What happens when you don’t agree with your friend? Lastly, if your teen has sudden changes in behavior, stops being motivated in school, loses interest in hobbies or starts acting defiant, it may be time to intervene. Talk to teachers, coaches, staff, parents or friends to find out what is going on. If you suspect your teen may be just starting to hang out with the wrong friends, you can keep him busy by diverting his time to getting a job, meeting different people in a youth group or some other extra-curricular activity that can get the teen involved with a different crowd and take his time away from the wrong crowd. Parents can be a stronger influence than peers, if they equip their teens with the courage and skills to assertively resist negative peer pressure.
Ritu Gupta is a psychological counsellor dealing with people having individual, marital, job related and child related issues. She also assists Dr. Deepak Goenka with infertility counselling.
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G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Web Watch
Facebook Look Back videos can now be edited by users
A 3 Minute Film On The 90s Will Win The Internet Today! And Also Your Heart.
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acebook, after rolling-out the Look Back feature to mark the 10-year anniversary of the social network, has now released tools that will allow users to edit their Look Back videos in case they are dissatisfied with them. The editing tool for Look Back allows users to choose alternative photos and clips to put in the video, eliminating those unwanted posts that Facebook’s algorithm chose for them. The Look Back video editing feature seems to have rolled out to most users, with the ‘Edit’ option clearly
ARM announces a new CPU core that finally replaces Cortex-A9
f you’ve gone through the 90s as a kid, then this video will make you nostalgic. A trip down the memory lane when things used to be simpler and fun; from textbook cricket to Nagraj comics, from Duck Tales to Surabhi, from visible to us. News of the edit option being in the offing had been reported on Wednesday by Techcrunch, and Facebook had confirmed the feature will soon arrive for the users, failing to give any particular time-slot. “We will be launching an Edit feature soon that will allow people to change moments in their movies or update the ones they shared. I don’t have exact timing at the moment, but this will enable people to remove a post from the movie that was pre-selected and change it to a different one.” The Look Back video initiative
is very much like the Year in Review compilations Facebook has offered at the end of the year, but this time, it’s in video form, and highlights the biggest events from the user’s entire time on the social network. The social networking giant says “this is a small gesture to thank the over one billion people who are on Facebook by providing a unique way to look back at some of their biggest moments.” You can access the experience by going to www.facebook.com/lookback while being logged into your Facebook account.
Good to Know:
Google’s ‘stay safe online’ campaign launched in India
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A
RM has announced new plans for a successor to the CortexA12, the upcoming 32-bit CPU core that’s scheduled to ship out later this year, which itself is the successor to the Cortex-A9. The new Cortex-A17 is a further 32-bit evolution of the ARM product family and illustrates something ARM told me last year when I visited its headquarters in Cambridge: The advent of the 64-bit Cortex-A53 and A57 families and the AArch64 instruction set doesn’t mean ARM is finished with the 32-bit market.
oogle India has introduced “Good to Know”, a nationwide campaign to raise awareness around staying safe online. Google has tied up with the Digital Empowerment Foundation (DEF) and the Voluntary Organization in the Interest of Consumer Education (VOICE) for this campaign, which includes a series of online safety workshops that will reach schools, NGOs, consumer and industry groups across India. The campaign is endorsed by the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) - the Government of India’s nodal agency that deals with cyber security threats; the Data Security Council of India (DSCI) and the Internet & Mobile Association of India (IAMAI). To begin the Good to Know campaign, the Digital Empowerment Foundation and VOICE will hold a week-long series of educational events in New Delhi. This will be followed by digital literacy and online safety workshops in Pune, Kanpur, Guwahati and Lucknow. VOICE will focus especially on outreach to schools and NGOs across the country, teaching tips and tricks
F.L.A.M.E.S to approaching a girl through a wingman, from familiar postmen to a single landline in a Mohalla, this film has covered it all. “Woh Din” is a tribute to the glorious decade of 90s by the creative ‘emotional fools’ at EmotionalFulls.
Soon, SMS alert when wait-listed railway ticket gets confirmed A senior Railway Ministry official said the wait-listed passenger will get an SMS about the status of the ticket on the mobile phone number given at the time of ticket booking. Currently, one has to either dial the enquiry number 139, or use the Internet to know the status of the wait-listed ticket. Users can also get to know the status of their tickets at stations. “Once the SMS-based service is operational, passengers will get the updated status of their wait-listed tickets automatically,” the official said, adding “only those passengers will get the message whose tickets get confirmed.” IRCTC has already launched a system for booking tickets using mobile phones, available across various platforms, including SMS-based ticketing services. IRCTC launched its SMS-based ticketing from July, describing the step as environmentfriendly as no print-out is required. A senior IRCTC official at the
time had said “mobile-based booking provides the users ease and convenience of booking tickets from anywhere and anytime. There will be no requirement of a printout because the ticketing message will be considered as valid during the journey.” As per the requirement, one has to register the mobile number with IRCTC as well as one’s bank. The bank provides MMID (Mobile Money Identifier) and OTP (one time password) for authorisation of payment. The SMS-based ticketing service is described as very simple, with a passenger required to type the train number, destination, journey date, class and passenger details like name, age and gender on the SMS box.
Sony said to be in talks with Apple about camera for ‘new’ iPhone to help families become responsible digital citizens. You can find more details about the campaign at Google’s Good to Know website. “Through the Good to Know campaign, we want to help equip millions of new Internet users coming online in India with the knowledge and tools needed to become responsible digital citizens. Internet safety begins with exercising meaningful choices when online, having an open conversation about it with our families, and teaching them the basics such as using strong, unique passwords and not sharing personal information,” says Chetan Krishnaswamy, Country Head - Public Policy, Google India.
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ony is in negotiations with Apple for supply of sensors for a “new iPhone,” according to a Japan-based report. The talks call for Sony to double the supply of camera components for a “new iPhone slated to roll out as early as next year,” according to a Wednesday report in Nikkei, Japan’s largest business daily. Sony is a supplier of CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor) sensors for the iPhone 5S’ rear-mounted cameras, as teardowns have shown. Nikkei states that “nearly all” rear-mounted CMOS sensors for “current iPhone models” are supplied by Sony.
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G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Reviews
RoboCop
MUSIC REVIEW
Director: José Padilha Cast: Joel Kinnaman, Gary Oldman, Michael Keaton and Abbie Cornish
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ompared to the original’s slick, darkly funny efficiency, the most significant change Padilha makes is in creating a more measured, meditative emotional journey for Murphy. As wonderful as Peter Weller was in 1987, Kinnaman’s interpretation of the character is more complex and tortured as he’s confronted with the realisation he would be little more than a few slabs on a coroner’s table were he not in the suit — but also that he is never truly himself even while he is in it. Where in the first film his transformation took place via an extended montage, here it’s a 40-minute set piece where Murphy discovers what has happened to him, and slowly comes to terms with how Norton and his colleagues have co-opted his identity. The science of RoboCop is remarkably prescient, engineering a half-man, half-machine that its creators acknowledge is outdated; it’s a step back from unmanned drones that are faster and more precise. But so too are the film’s insights into the symbiosis between corporate and political manoeuvring. Sellars builds a device — to him, another product — with the emotional and moral compass of a man, but only to appease public opposition to robotic surveillance and secure a lucrative government contract. Padilha and screenwriter Joshua Zetumer brilliantly observe that in an era where drone strikes and artificial intelligence are already a reality, enhanced strength and accuracy
are nominal improvements — and essential human qualities such as compassion are impediments to the sort of efficiency that technology is meant to facilitate. Do these ideas make it a relevant, thought-provoking film? Indisputably. But do they make it an entertaining one? Not always. Although there is a showdown with some of RoboCop’s automated counterparts — including, yes, the ED-209 — the action scenes in Padilha’s version are few and far between. This feels much more like a meditative character study than an energetic techno-thriller. Gone are the comical advertisements that served as scene breaks in the original, here replaced by the ongoing manipulation of Murphy’s identity by his creators to make him as appealing to consumers as possible. (When RoboCop abandons his programming and decides to pursue suspects in the unsolved case of his own murder, Omnicorp’s head of marketing considers it a publicity bonanza.) Padilha replaces all of the media coverage from the first film with an interactive right-wing television show hosted by Pat Novak (Samuel L. Jackson), whose penchant for exaggeration feels all too similar to our modern day political pundits. In 1987, RoboCop mercilessly satirized the existing media as it grew increasingly polemical, but more than 25 years later, it plays like a forecast of things to come. And for better or worse, that can’t help but feel a little bit less fun.
NOW PLAYING Apsara Cinema Gunday
Daily at 11AM, 2, 5 & 8 PM
Anuradha Cineplex Daily at 10.45 AM, 2, 5.15 & 8.30 PM
Fun Cinemas Daily at 9 AM, 11.45, 2.35, 5.30 & 8.40 PM
ibo Matto’s 2014 return with Hotel Valentine -- their first album in 15 years -- was one of the more unexpected reunions of ‘90s acts. After all, both Yuka Honda and Miho Hatori had busy schedules throughout the 2000s and 2010s: Honda worked as a solo artist and with the Plastic Ono Band, while Hatori collaborated with Beck, Gorillaz, the Beastie Boys, and a host of other well-known artists. On their third album as a duo, it’s clear that they reunited not out of a need for attention, but because they enjoy making music together. Fortunately, Hatori and Honda use this to their benefit, resulting in songs that feel connected to their earlier work, yet not overtly retro. It helps that this is a concept album revolving around a hotel haunted by a female ghost; it’s a quirky conceit, but also one that allows Cibo Matto to use the contrast of brash and ethereal moods at the heart of their music to the fullest. In between, Honda and Hatori spend equal time with the different sides of their music, with half the album representing the bustling, kinetic real world and the other reflecting the after life of the hotel’s spectral guest. Both approaches deliver entertaining results: the pretty, mercurial pop of “Déjà Vu,” which features some extra-playful rapping from Hatori, is a standout from the album’s louder first half, along with the grooving “10th Floor Ghost Girl” and the irresistibly bouncy “MFN,” which spotlights Cibo Matto’s famed love of food with its room service order of lobsters, oysters, and chocolate milk. To say that the album sounds like Hatori and Honda picked up right where they left off downplays its specialness, but there’s no denying it sounds like Cibo Matto had never stopped playing together.
Director- Ali Abbas Zafar Cast- Ranveer Singh, Arjun Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, Irrfan Khan and Saurabh Shukla
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unday celebrates friendship. It doesn’t matter it’s a Valentine Day or some other day. Friendship is forever and many Bollywood flicks have shown its various shades. And now director Ali Abbas Zafar has come up with Gunday. Gunday is not just about goons and their struggle to rein Calcutta, but is also about the unbeatable emotional bonding between the male protagonists, which is more intense than any other relationship. With Ranveer Singh and Arjun
Kapoor, he resurrects friends for life emotion in an unusual manner. It starts from the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War resulting in the separation of the region from Pakistan, which gave birth to an independent Bangladesh. The two young orphans Vikram and Bala were refugees then and they witnessed it all. They battled each and every day for their living and finally ventured into Kolkata (earlier known as Calcutta) to find a work space in a coal field and ultimately to become the coal bandits.
Lightning Returns-Final-Fantasy-XIII
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ightning strikes not once, not twice, but three times in this week’s release of Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII. The game marks the final instalment in the Final Fantasy XIII universe, and concludes the story of protagonist LightGAME ning. REVIEW Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII chronicles the last 13 days of the game’s universe, with players taking on the role of Lightning as she seeks a way to save the world from extinction.The game retains the Paradigm Shift combat system introduced in Final Fantasy XIII, although players can now move Lightning around the battlefield and swap weapons instantaneously. Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII was released on February 13th for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. Gamers who are curious to try Lightning Returns but have not played through the previous two games can watch a retrostyle trailer that explains the story so far. For those who prefer their games a little closer to the real world, Far Cry: The Wild Expedition is out this week. The game is a bundle that includes Far Cry 2, Far Cry 3, and Far Cry: Blood Dragon, as well as Far Cry Classic, the high-definition remake of the first Far Cry title. The compilation bundle will be available for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 consoles.
You should read
Publisher: Srishti Publishers & Distributors Author: Rohan Gautam
W
hat happens when a girl meets a boy on a train journey and they eventually fall in love? A new Romeo and Juliet are born. And what happens when their families find out? Enter Hitler. Rohan bumps into Shreya perchance and dreams of spending a lifetime with her. Love is in the air - the breeze seems colder,the stars shine brighter, and life seems rosier. But can it last forever? Like all other love stories, this one is also horrifying and hilarious in bits. As Rohan meanders through his
feelings, travels across cities, gets thrown behind bars by pot-bellied policemen, and is almost beaten in his own life and career, he still has to face the biggest test of all - facing Shreya’s Hitler brother. Will he be able to win him over? Or will Hitler put brakes on their love? Romeo, Juliet & Hitler is a story of young love coming face to face with the grown up world and its notions of right and wrong. Will this set of Romeo and Juliet share the same fate as the originals or will they manage to win over all odds?
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G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Events
Actress Madhurima Choudhary perfoming on traditional tunes
Photos: UB Photos
Traditional fashion show
MAHABAHU UTSAV Date: 9th - 10th Feb, Sonaram Field, Bharalumukh
Singer Manas Robin
(L to R) Asha Bora, Anjuli Chittaranjan and Darshana Sen Gupta
1st GUWAHATI WOMEN CAR RALLY Organised by the Asha Borah Foundation in association with Darshana Sengupta.
Flagging of the rally
GUWAHATI INTERNATIONAL Date: 31 Jan - 16 Feb, TRADE FAIR Maniram Dewan Trade Centre st
th
The participants along with the organisers
VENUE
EVENT
14th - 16th Feb
DATE
Bharalumukh Beach
Sun n Sand Assam Beach Festival’ 14
15th Feb
Show Down - DJ Kan-i India Tour 2014
Terra Mayaa
15th Feb
TEDxSaraighat
Kanak Lal Barua Auditorium, Assam State Museum
15th Feb
Odyssey - An evening with art, fashion, music & charity dinner
Hotel Brahmaputra Ashok
15th - 17th Feb
6th Pragjyoti International Dance Festival
Ravindra Bhawan
16th February
DJ NYK
Sun n Sand Assam Beach Festival’ 14
Want your event to be featured on this page? Just mail us at info@g-plus.in
Photos: UB Photos
7days
Next
Inaguration of the Guwahati International Trade Fair
WrestleMania in action
People queuing up outside the arena
G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
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G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Your weekly dose of HOROSCOPE ARIES
There isn’t anything particularly unusual about Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, but something wonderful is definitely afoot. It’s a feeling. The everyday stuff seems fascinating. Your friends are funnier than ever. Your attachment to them is so strong that on Thursday, when you have coffee or dinner with one friend, another may become jealous. This kind of jealousy is ridiculous, but it speaks to how much you adore one another. On Friday, you’re moody (and a bit sensitive yourself!), but Saturday and Sunday you’re utterly charming.
TAURUS A special dining experience at the beginning of the week with a friend or a loved one (or a potential loved one!) is an excellent idea. Making it yourself makes it extra charming. From Wednesday through the end of the workweek, you may have some issues with authority. Remember to show proper respect — even if you’re not feeling it — or be prepared to deal with the consequences. Good times are coming your way if the stars have their say from Friday afternoon through the weekend; you may especially enjoy nature now, and romance is in the air. A twilight walk in the park, anyone?
GEMINI You’re busy this week — especially the first half. Action, romance, partnerships and new projects all come into play. Those new projects may not all pan out the way you’d like them to, but your talent right now is simply getting things started, so don’t worry. Thursday and Friday find you more calculating — you’re taking measure of your life and work, asking tough question of good friends and reading heavy books. But the weekend is filled with plans and pals. On Sunday, watch your dogmatic streak. No one (not even you) wants to be preached to.
CANCER
TIMEPASS
LIBRA
You may be in the mood to buy a new stove, or repaint the kitchen, or go in a new direction with the layout of the garden. But have you considered that what’s really getting under your skin has nothing to do with the kitchen or the garden? If something’s bothering you at home, deal with it directly. That’s easier said than done, of course. Thursday is defined by emotional upheaval, and Friday you’re basically useless at work, what with all that’s on your mind. Saturday and Sunday, get out of the house. Why not take yourself to the movies?
LEO ‘You plus friends’ is a winning combination on Monday. Tuesday and Wednesday as well — whether it’s you or them or something in the air that none of you has anything to do with, you seem almost psychically connected this week. Your romantic life is active, too. Your needs are being met in just about every realm. It’s only natural that on Thursday you begin to think deeply about this state of happiness, such as where it comes from and how to maintain it. On Friday, your thinking is concentrated on thwarting the efforts of plotters, but your attitude is unchanging. The weekend is out of a storybook.
VIRGO If you’re going to the store at the start of the week, bring a friend. Your shopping is best done with a partner right now. You may need some advice, or you may go in on a big purchase together. The benefits of the shopping excursion also may have nothing to do with the shopping itself. A conversation with a pal on Wednesday about the difference between the things you want and the things you need sets you up to be in deep-thinking mode on Thursday and Friday. This weekend, if you’re feeling stuck, take a risk.
You’ll blush so many times between Monday morning and Wednesday afternoon that someone may ask you (jokingly) if you’re having an allergic reaction to something. What is it that makes everyone want to flirt with you right now? Is it your sly smile? Your shoes? Your social life is in tip-top shape until around Thursday, when work woes weigh you down. Business matters figure strongly on Friday as well. Maybe you’re making up for all that time you spent in coffee shops earlier in the week. On Saturday and Sunday, you finally achieve a nice balance between what you have to do and what you want to do.
SCORPIO You could go either way. You can see both sides. You’d love a lot of toppings on your ice cream, but ordering it without toppings has an appealing simplicity as well. You’re in love with so-and-so; you’re not in love. Sheesh! How do people make decisions in this world? Have patience. Toward the second half of the week, an amazing thing happens: Many answers become apparent. They reveal themselves. You barely have to decide anything. The people you’re drawn to are suddenly drawn to you. Chalk it up to chemistry. This weekend, caught up in the magic, you may go on an unlikely adventure.
SAGITTARIUS You need some time to think things through. You need to prepare for what you’re getting into. The major message broadcasted during the first half of the week is that you’re loved by your friends. But that doesn’t solve your career-related quandaries. On Wednesday, the law (or a lawyer, or justice itself) comes into play in some way. Thursday and Friday, you’re contemplating the big picture in a nonspecific, hard-to-articulate way. Your subconscious is going crazy. But by Saturday and Sunday, the atmosphere of the weekend takes over, and joviality and lightness dominate.
CAPRICORN You’re well aware of what everyone else thinks. The pressing question at the start of the week is: What do you think? There couldn’t be a better period of time to initiate new projects than Tuesday and Wednesday. But if you’re unclear on what you want, how will you get it? What should the shape of your next project be? Friends might help you with this. Pay someone a visit on Thursday — go for a walk or possibly bowling — and talk it through. On Friday, your deepest hopes suddenly seem clear, and you have the resources you need to make them come to fruition. Take this weekend to plan.
AQUARIUS Your new ally may come in a funny disguise at the start of the week. Everyone’s seems to be wearing some kind of mask right now. Go outside of your comfort zone and try to connect with someone you almost assuredly have nothing in common with; you may be surprised how wrong you are. The energy you get from this burgeoning friendship will have you buzzing on Wednesday. Thursday or Friday, you’re required to say something in front of a group, which has you completely nervous. Saturday and Sunday are a blast.
PISCES People are crazy. Just when you feel like you and you-know-who are going to take over the world together — in a peaceful, wonderful way — they flake out on you. They become distracted. Their reasons may be valid, but the truth remains: If you want something, it’s on your own shoulders to make it happen. You can handle that. You have great shoulders. Toward the second half of the week, your resolve strengthens even more, and you take someone who’s treating you like a doormat to the curb. You do it smiling. You’re a pro. This weekend, things finally start going your way.
JUST FOR LAUGHs A couple just started their Lamaze class and they were given an activity requiring the husband to wear a bag of sand to give him an idea of what it feels like to be pregnant. The husband stood up and shrugged saying, “This doesn’t feel so bad.” The instructor then dropped a pen and asked the husband to
SUDOKU
pick it up. “You want me to pick up the pen as if I were pregnant, the way my wife would do it?” the husband asked. “Exactly,” replied the instructor. To the delight of the other husbands, he turned to his wife and said, “Honey, pick up that pen for me.”
Solutions (Last Issue)
Fun
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G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Travel
Seychelles
G Plus Feature
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eychelles is an extremely popular destination that has been praised by critics as one of the best tropical islands in the world. Seychelles, which is in fact comprised of 115 islands and is located approximately 1,500 kilometres east of the African continent and is famous for its beaches and constantly warm weather along with its raw beauty. It is indeed one of the few places in the world to have so far been spared man’s destructive tendencies. Although the Seychelles beaches and the great weather have been huge factors in establishing the islands as a popular destination, there are also great attractions that are a must-see for all travellers. This week G Plus talks especially about the fresh beauty of 115 beauties.
Praslin Island
Praslin was mainly inhabited by the pirates before it was discovered by the French. It is the second largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. Praslin is enlisted in UNESCO World Heritage Site. The beaches Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette are the best beaches according to the top ten beaches of the world. Valle de Mai is another attraction in Praslin.
Ste Anne Marine National Park
This Island was first discovered and inhabited by the French in 1742. The island is 4 kilometers away from the Mahe Island.
Descroches
Among the archipelago of Seychelles, Mahe is the largest. Besides Mahe is also the gateway to Seychelles. Mahe is the economic and cultural hub of the Inner islands of Seychelles. The island is known for its granite rocks and shelters about 90% of the diverse ethnic population of Seychelles.
Descroches like other Seychelles islands is a coral island. Situated at a distance of 240 km south west of Mahe, Descroches in Seychelles is an ideal getaway for holiday makers and honeymooners. The soft white sandy beaches, against a turquoise blue backdrop of the Indian Ocean are an enchanting view difficult to resist.
Victoria
Aride
Mahe
Besides being the main attractions in Seychelles, Victoria is also the capital of Seychelles. It is also the port city of Seychelles. Victoria is in Mahe Island and has a tropical climate, welcoming visitors throughout the year.
The raw beauty of 115 islands
Aride, the most beautiful island in the group of Seychelles islands, has become one of the most cherished tourist destinations these days. The Aride Island is located very close to the cousin island. These two islands are famous for their bird
colonies and rich vegetation. The island of Aride is known for its great collection of birds. That is why it is a very popular place for the bird lovers. Not only the different types of colorful birds, but also the varieties of exotic fruits and rich vegetation make the Aride Island a famous spot in the northern most region of the Seychelles archipelago. The lemon tree is the most famous among all fruits, because it can be found only in this island.
Felicite Island
Felicite Island is one of the captivating Seychelles islands that feature among the most sought after tourist destinations of the world. The location of Felicite Island is just some 3 kilometers from La Digue Island. This island is best for family holidays as the island is quite small and perfect with a cozy atmosphere. Those visiting Felicite Island will be overwhelmed by the natural creations of God. The mouthwatering juicy fruits of the island like mangoes, bananas or oranges can be found in plenitude.
North Island
North Island is one of the most magnificent Seychelles Islands, which lies close to the other two important islands of Seychelles, Mahe and Praslin. North Island is a granite island and is most parts of this island are deserted. The length of the North Island is estimate to be 2.5 km while it is 1 km wide. There are three beautiful beaches in this island. This spectacular island of Seychelles is sparsely populated. Hence, the land in this island is very fertile. Important efforts are being made to turn this island into a beautiful haven for the most endangered species of wild animals. This entire plan is given a specific name “Noah’s Arc”.
Cerf Island
Cerf Island is one of the tiny Seychelles islands that warmly welcome numerous tourists every year. Cerf Island is known for its granitic terrain and the several natural attractions of the island draw uncountable visitors. The captivating scenery of green vegetation, the mysterious coves, and pure sands, marvellous coral reefs of Cerf Island are real treats for the senses. The milk white beaches of Cerf Island are absolutely irresistible and give travellers all the options to get sun tanned or sun bathe.
Denis Island
Denis Island, one of the many islands that form the beautiful archipelago of Seychelles on the west of Indian Ocean, is not only a beautiful island, but also a very popular tourist destination. The island has got some fabulous beaches surrounded by palm trees, making the island an ideal tourist’s destination. The Denis Island is located at a distance of 60 miles from the Island of Mahe. The list does not end here, as you reach the place, you will get to know about various other places in Seychelles which will be worth exploring. For the time being, pack your bags and book the tickets to visit these places. Enjoy the trip.
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G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
G-Talk
Do we need moral policing on Valentine’s Day? Tui Nath
Rajkamal Pandey Social Worker
House wife
POINT
COUNTERPOINT
T
he question should be, ‘how to celebrate Valentine’s Day instead of the need of moral policing on that day. Because, nobody has any problem with people celebrating occasions. It might be a celebration of any occasion like Valentine’s Day or Durga puja. The problem is people celebrate each and every occasion without knowing the true meaning and essence of the day. In the name of Valentine’s Day, couples are seen crossing the social and ethical lines meant for preserving the value of the culture, gifted to us by our ancestors. They are seen romancing in the public. It generally happens that few couples hangout on Valentine’s Day to have fun, but some of them go beyond their limits, setting a bad example for the children and our culture. It becomes embarrassing for people to see the younger generation in indecent situations everywhere in the city. Places like Uzan Bazar Park, Nehru Park and many restaurants and discos in the city are thronged by the youths. These parks and restaurants become a hub to all kinds of obscenity. It’s not just this, a lot of unmarried couples and even minors indulge in illicit activities as a source of pleasure, which they think should be there during every Valentine’s Day, without actually knowing the essence of the day. I don’t exactly support moral policing but to make the youths understand that there is a limit to everything there should be some restrictions and rules which usually happens in India through moral policing. There are people who might think that I am talking like a fundamentalist, but it seriously is a concern that certain privacy in anyone’s life should be maintained. This is not to be made public as we are living in a society, which is revered and respected worldwide for its culture. Peo-
A I don’t support moral policing but to make the youths understand that there is a limit to everything there should be some restrictions and rules which usually happens in India through moral policing”
ple are learning many things from the western culture her too, which is not exactly bad or something which should not happen, as the west has taught the lessons of development to the east, but meanwhile, the culture should not be forgotten.
bsolutely not! It is totally a matter of personal choice of an individual whether he should or would celebrate an occasion. More importantly, today’s youths are matured enough to take their own decisions. If someone wants to celebrate a day with his or her beloved, there is nothing wrong with it. In the past, we have heard news of some antagonist activists who came out of their party offices and harassed the people who celebrated
“If watching ‘Titanic’ or having dinner at ‘KFC’ does not pose any threat to our ‘culture’, how does celebrating V-day destroy our culture? Some people just do not want peace and harmony in the society
V-day. They always have a ready made answer to this that “this is against our Indian culture” to weigh their argument. But personally, I do not see any logic in it. If watching ‘Titanic’ or having dinner at ‘KFC’ does not pose any threat to our ‘culture’, how does celebrating V-day destroy our culture? Some people just do not want peace and harmony in the society. That is why they get themselves involved in some trivial activities. Sometimes, they do things just to show off their lame powers or to draw fear from the rest of the people of the society. But in reality, they draw hatred for themselves from the people. I have also read in the papers that these so-called activists have forced the girls to tie rakhis on their boyfriends on V-day in full public glare. These are the people who advocate about protecting Indian culture. According to Indian culture, rakhi is tied by the sisters on their brothers and not on the boyfriends by their girlfriends. People should have every right to declare and display their love publicly unless and until they are breaking the laws of obscenity. Like every other festival, Valentine’s Day is celebrated based on the martyrdom of someone from a bygone era. It is believed that it was St Valentine of Rome, who was imprisoned for performing weddings for many soldiers, who were otherwise forbidden to do so. Valentines is since celebrated as a festival of love and officially a day kept aside to express love. Valentine ’s Day is ideally a day for lovers and love has no boundaries. As far as moral policing is concerned, who is to decide what is correct and wrong when there is love. I am requesting all the people to celebrate the day of love and spread the essence of love with no fear.
23
G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Citypedia
Architects & Designers G Plus will keep on publishing such relevant and useful information in this page in the coming issues.
Compiled by Rangman Das
Aakriti
Arindam Kakati & Associates
Bhattacharjee, Pinaki
Choudhury, B K
#16, N P Path Christianbasti Guwahati – 781005 Phone No – 0361-2345919
Monalisa Path Zoo Narengi Road Guwahati – 781024 Phone No – 0361-2417270
B K Kakoti Road Ulubari Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 0361-2527582
Anandanagar Bamunimaidam Guwahati – 781021 Phone No – 98640-97696
Aartisans – The Design Studio
Ashiana Associates
Bhattacharya Dinesh
Choudhury, Nakib Z
McDonald Tower Bhangagarh Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 0361-2464086
H B Road, Fancy Bazaar Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 0361-2630274
Design Consortium Panbazaar Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 0361-2666987, 2547273
#1, Housefed Lane Last Gate, Guwahati – 781006 Phone No – 94350-14076
Abani Das & Co
NERIM Lane, Nabin Nagar Guwahati – 781024 Phone No – 98641-10331
Bhattacharya, Rahul
Bamunimaidam Guwahati – 781021 Phone No – 0361-2550208
G S Road, Bhangagarh Guwahati – 781005 Phone No – 0361-2457022, 2599087
Shivashis, Andheri West Mumbai – 400058 Phone No – 022-2693550/02/03
Adds India R P Road, Ganeshguri Guwahati – 781006 Phone No – 98640-53893, 99540-75859
Adharsheela Construction N C Bharali Market Maligaon Guwahati – 781012 Phone No – 98640-43310
Agarwala Amit McDonald Tower Bhangagarh Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 0361-2464086
All Decor #5, Uday Path RGB Road Guwahati – 781024 Phone No – 94351-05956
Architects Collaborative MRD Road Chandmari Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 0361-2668301, 2663488
Arijit Choudhury & Associates Dighalipukhuri East Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 0361-2543190, 2511490
AVD Associates
Avikalpan Rajgarh Road Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 0361-2520535
Baishya Ramendra GNB Road Chandmari Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 0361-2526708, 2668301
Banka & Associates G S Road Guwahati – 781005 Phone No – 0361-2463519
Baruah Ranjib Opp. Rajib Bhawan Guwahati – 5 Phone No – 0361-2522658, 2452425
Baruah, Ami Ambani Opp. Rajib Bhawan Guwahati – 5 Phone No – 0361-2522508
Baruah, Indrajit Milanpur Road Bamunimaidam Guwahati – 781021 Phone No – 0361-2548763
Baruah, Santosh Andhra Bank Building A T Road Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 0361-2463519, 2483792
Bezbaruah, R P Narikalbari Lane 3 Guwahati – 781021 Phone No – 0361-2416019
McDonald Tower, Bhangagarh Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 0361-2464086
Bhuyan, Jogada Kanta Opp. Panchavati Silpukhuri Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 0361-2662258, 2661487
Bora, Dilip Kumar Designer Guild Milanpur Guwahati – 781021 Phone No – 0361-2548763
Borthakur & Associates
Choudhury,Surajit
Civcon #3, Bihind Hotel shiva Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 98590-19907
Creations B K Kakati Road Ulubari Guwahati – 781007 Phone No – 0361-2527582, 2512212
Das, Digambar
RGB Road Guwahati – 781024 Phone No – 0361-2457578, 94350-83009
CES Office Chandmari Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 0361-2660177
B S Bhajani & Associates
Das, Kalyan Kumar
Rajbari Path Ganeshguri Guwahati – 781005 Phone No – 0361-2620028, 98640-84115
Buildscape Opp T C School GNB Road Guwahati – 781003 Phone No – 0361-2660143, 94350-43529
Cadmatric Consulting Divine Plaza Supermarket Guwahati – 781006 Phone No – 0361-2229429, 94350-22322
Chaya Consultancy West Santipur Bhutnath Road Guwahati – 781009 Phone No – 98640-17344
Gopinath Nagar Guwahati – 781016 Phone No – 2472935
Das, Nirupam Kamarpatty Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 98640-17344, 98643-04736
Das, Prasant Kumar M L Nehru Road Panbazaar Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 0361-2547273
Deb, P N Designer & Consultants Panbazaar Guwahati – 781001 Phone No – 0361-2225569
24
G PLUS FEB 15 - FEB 21, 2014
Catching Up
Headlining acts! Is Barack Obama having an affair With Beyonce? Beyonce has affair with Barack Obama!? If speculations are true, US President Barack Obama’s marriage might be on the rocks, and he is believed to be growing distant from his wife, Michelle. The French media recently took note of this alleged trouble in Obama’s marriage and claimed that he might be cheating on his wife with singer Beyonce. Comments on the affair were first made on Europe 1 radio station on Monday morning, Mail Online reported, adding that Pascal Rostain, the photographer who took pictures of French president Francois Hollande secretly visiting his lover, spoke of the Obama-Beyonce affair.
Nicole Scherzinger WHO’S SHE? This babe is an American singer, songwriter, television personality, and philanthropist. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, she was exposed to mainstream success with an appearance on the television series Popstars as a member of Eden’s Crush. SO WHAT As the primary voice on record for The Pussycat Dolls, both in the studio and onstage, Scherzinger has sold 50 million records worldwide and a further 16 million as a solo artist. Billboard magazine has listed her as one of the most successful musical acts of the 2000s decade. Now what? Nicole Scherzinger has reportedly made the decision not to make a comeback for the 2014 season. The 35-year-old singer is said to have spent months agonising over the decision on whether or not to return to the hit ITV show, before making the ‘heartbroken’ choice to instead focus on her music.
pick of the week
What did I just hear?
Assam became the first state to legally ban consumption of all forms of smokeless tobacco, including pan masala containing tobacco and nicotine. The move came into force because of an act which which was passed. The act also bans the manufacture, advertisement, trade, storage, distribution and sale of the substances.
Parliament erupted in chaos over a bill to create Telangana, with angry MPs coming to blows, pulling out a microphone and pepper spraying the chamber. Waving banners and shouting slogans, lawmakers disrupted the lower house of Parliament as the Congress-led government introduced the contentious bill to create the new state called Telangana from an area in the existing state of Andhra Pradesh.
Kamur of the week
THE GOGOI BUDGET: It may be a usual habit for the Chief
Minister to make big promises, but recently he made one more, which irritated political observers in the state. In his interim budget presentation, he said that he would gift cash to the poor as a Bohag Bihu gift, inspite of knowing the fact that April will see the beginning of Lok Sabha polls.
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