10 Signs of
Depression in Men
PG 16
Chloe Goodman Motorsports in Guwahati
PG 11
thinks rival Vicky Pattison needs to go to rehab
Page 24
VOLUME 02 | ISSUE 33 MAY 23 - MAY 29 , 2015
PRICE `10
on-street parking lots HANG OUT
to SOLVE CITY’s problem?
With 71 on-street locations identified across the city for parking and the space under the Ganeshguri flyover announced as a parking zone as well, will the city parking problem slowly ease out?
Contd. in page 02
REBOTI Pocket Friendly Bites
PG
19
2
71 G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
Lead Story
on-street parking lots
TO SOLVE CITY’S PROBLEM?
Rahul Chanda
T
he free space under the Ganeshguri Flyover is expected to be open for parking soon with the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) busy improving the infrastructure to ensure security measures are in place. However, it remains to be seen whether this latest move to manage the traffic congestion in Guwahati succeeds in its purpose. According to experts, 75 per cent of the traffic congestion problem of Guwahati will be solved if on-street parking is removed from Guwahati but, that in itself is a herculean task as most of the city vehicles are parked on the streets. Last year the administration experimented by designating the entire GS Road as a no parking zone but was not able to maintain the practise for long. A special committee was also formed involving members from all stake holders responsible to manage the traffic to decide where a person can or cannot park their vehicle.
The allotted parking lots The special body formed by the authorities was responsible for identify parking lots in the city which can be convenient for the public and also ensure that all areas outside the allotted lots are made no parking zones. According to sources in city traffic police, 71 locations have been selected across the city for parking purposes and the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) is leasing out the locations to lessees. GMC sources said that 25 locations have already been leased out to lessees and the parking facility has also started there, while the tendering process of 14 locations is going on and the rest of the locations also will be functional soon. Interestingly, all these 71 identified locations are on-street locations because of lack of off-street parking lots in Guwahati. Traffic police officials said that among the identified lots, depending on the location, there will be parallel parking facility in some lots, in some there will be angular parking facility while some narrow roads will be provided only to two wheelers. Also, the name of the lessee will be written on a board on the allotted parking lots. The area of the parking lot will be demarcated and no vehicle can be parked outside the marked area. The process of allotment of the 71 parking lots to the lessees will be completed soon and according to traffic police, after the process is completed, vigorous action will be taken
The parking under the Ganeshguri Flyover is expected to start from 24th May if everything goes according to the plan. against any vehicles parked in the no parking zone areas. The Ganeshguri Flyover parking will also help to reduce parking problems but the question of safety still remains.
Flyover parking The parking under the Ganeshguri Flyover is expected to start from 24th May if everything goes according to the plan. “Underneath the Ganeshguri flyover, we have seen that there is suf-
ficient parking space for four wheelers and two wheelers. Almost 70-80 four wheelers and around 100 two-wheelers can be parked there. We wanted to establish a parking lot there and since security is a concern, we are tying up with the Sainik Welfare (Directorate of Ex Army Servicemen Welfare Society) who will provide ex army men for manning the flyover and there will be 24/7 CCTV camera surveillance. Around 10-12 CCTV cameras are being installed there. After this launch, we will look at the feedback and if it
is positive, we will take it forward at the Bhangagarh, Ulubari and Six Mile flyovers.” According to GMC officials managing the parking lot, the Ganeshguri flyover parking lot will have seven bays including autorickshaw parking. There will be five entry and five exit gates besides the emergency exit gates. Both side parking will be available and the parking lot is expected to open from 6 am to 10 pm. According to authorities, the ex army personnel will be taking care of the security scenario and it will reduce the traffic congestion of Ganeshguri.
Other problems According to highly placed sources in the police, strict action will be taken against people parking their vehicles in no parking zones after the en-
tire new parking lots are allotted and starts functioning. It is also noticed that some shops, garages and junkyards block almost half of the roads with their vehicles or other workable materials which is intolerable and the concerned agencies should recheck their trade licenses as it is illegal to block the way for whatever reasons it may be. “A resident of Jyotikuchi said, “There are three junkyards adjacent to each other in this area and the road is almost half blocked with their vehicles, dumpers and other equipments 24/7. The police also know about the problem but do not take any action as they have some secret arrangements with the owners. I don’t know whether it is legal or not, but it is really an inconvenience to the people of this area.” Similarly places like Chatribari, Kumarpara etc are always blocked with slow moving vehicles because there are many business establishments located in the area. People park their vehicles anywhere and everywhere, causing huge traffic jams for hours. There are only few countable off-street parking lots in the city (Fancy Bazar GMC market, Guwahati Town Club, Fancy Bazar old jail, ASTC multi level parking, Ganeshguri GMDA parking and a private parking lot opposite Secretariat). So, with these 72 on-street parking lots and few off-street parking lots, will the city parking problem ever be resolved? rahul.chanda@g-plus.in
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
3
In The News
WILL THE
ARTIFICIAL FLOODS
EVER STOP?
With the showers starting to come in thick and fast, have the authorities done enough to solve the problem of artificial floods in the city or have their efforts been all in vain? Juthika Baruah
PUB SARANIA
A
lthough the problem of artificial floods in the city have been reduced to some extent, the condition in low lying areas like Anil Nagar, Nabin Nagar and Tarun Nagar are far from ideal with the problem of water logging still persisting after heavy showers of rainfall in the city. Engineer J.N. Khataniar, who has been working on bringing about a permanent solution to the problem in these areas have proposed the construction of an elevated drainage system above the guard walls of the Bharalu River by using pumps, so that instead of draining the water into the BharaluRiver, it can be sent directly into the River Brahmaputra through pipes set up by the embankment of the River Bharalu. If the water is drained into the Brahmaputra directly, then the problem of artificial floods in the low lying areas will come to an end, said Khataniar. Khataniar also praised the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC), Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) and Water Resource department under the guidance of Additional Principal Secretary to the Government of Assam, M.G.V.K. Bhanu for taking up such initiatives to make the city flood free. Khataniar said the Bharalu River has surplus carrying capacity but due to negligence in the earlier years and lack of timely maintenance, artificial floods have become a regular issue
for the last several years. The existing drains are insufficient to drain out the water and pumping is the only solution to do so. “Siltation is also one of the unavoidable problems but it should be maintained and drains and rivers should be cleaned up frequently during the dry season instead of the monsoon season,” said Khataniar. The Anil Nagar and Nabin Nagar areas are the most affected and consultant engineer J.N. Khataniar suggested a special action plan for the respective areas and other adjacent low laying areas. • Efficient pumping arrangement is the only solution to minimise the heavy flood problem as the bed level of the adjacent Bharalu River is higher than the other areas. • The bed level of Bharalu is at a higher level and surrounded by thick guard walls having limited carrying capacity. Pumping out the nearby flood water to the already overloaded flowing river is not advisable during heavy floods. • As an alternative way to discharge the high pressure pumped water from the low areas, it can have another set of properly designed elevated pipe drains above the existing guard walls of the River Bharalu to carry the pumped water to be discharged directly to the River Brahmaputra at Bharalumukh point. • With these arrangements of elevated extra pumped water drainage system, the load on the existing rivers/drains shall be reduced drastically during high flood time. • In both cases, the location of the intake points for the pump sets has to be selected rightly with an addition of proper silt trap at all intake/ pump point for silt free flowing of flood water through the elevated drains. • This arrangement shall reduce the cost of construction of new drains, land acquisition problem etc.
Lokhora
Bharalu River has surplus carrying capacity but due to negligence in the earlier years and lack of timely maintenance, artificial floods have become a regular issue Earlier, Kamrup Metro District Commissioner, M. Angamuthu said that in the Chandmari rain gauge, the rainfall as on May 8 was measured at 108.7mm, in Pandu it was 81.5mm, Gandhi Mandap 74mm, Rehabari 73mm and Byrnihat measured 105mm. Rainfall measured above 50mm is regarded as heavy rainfall. “Last year the rainfall that oc-
curred on 26th and 27th June was 6568mm which was quite low compared to this year but the flood that occurred in today’s rainfall do not last long as the water evacuation was much faster in the history of Bharalu. The water flow of Marabharalu was also faster than the earlier years in the ISBT, Fatasil Ambari and Pamohi areas. A part of Zoo Road Tiniali, Gauhati Commerce College, Lachit Nagar were most affected which will be taken care of within 15 days,” said Angamuthu. The DC also stated that while last year it took almost 10-12 hours to drain out the water, this time the water logging lasted for only 6 hours. He said that the areas where there is a blockade will be taken care of by deploying more manpower and they will prepare an action plan for such areas for better development planning. Angamuthu said that adequate pumps will be set up for Anil Nagar and Nabin Nagar and the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) has started working for major diversion of water flow from the Chandmari railway, Geetanagar etc. The water resource department has also set up pumps in the flood affected areas and it will be completed within 15 days. He also urged the public to throw garbage into the dustbins instead of drains and by the roadsides, which block the drains as a result of which the flow of water decreases and floods adjoining areas. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in
4
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
In The News
7,182 street vendors
to get vending zones in Guwahati Rahul Chanda
S
treet vendors have been an integral part of any Indian street, Guwahati being no exception. They sell every conceivable item, but most of them have no documents that legitimises their trade. But this is all set to change now with the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014 which was passed by the Parliament in the month of March. The act emphasises that there should be a town vending committee for each town or city. The Town Vending Committee (TVC) is the centre piece of this act and they will adopt the regulatory as well as welfare measures for the street vendors within the city.
Total number of vendors in Guwahati According to the act, the following things have to be ensured by the governments of states:-
• Survey of the street vendors has to be done to identify the exact numbers of the vendors in the city • Registration of the street vendors is vital to provide the services • Vending zones has to be identified to settle the vendors and provide them a fixed place • Co-operation with other sectors like banks etc. is required for the welfare of the vendors In Guwahati, were all these things implemented? Do we know how many vendors are providing services to Guwahatians? Where exactly can we meet them? Thinking on these lines, G Plus talked to the stakeholders.
7182
Food vendors 497 Cloth vendors 727 Fruit vendors 661 Vegetable vendors 2044 Fish vendors 194 Meat vendors 82 Pan/tamul vendors 1163 Chana/ puchka/ bhel muri vendors 183 Others 1631
The survey According to GMC officials, the survey was conducted with the help of an NGO, Scorpion and a number of vendors have been identified, all of whom will be registered soon. After the Street Vendors Act was passed in March 2014, a town vending committee headed by the GMC commissioner and members from various sectors
like NGOs was formed. 40 per cent of the members were from vendors, bank, police etc. The vending committee identified various zones like south zone, west zone, east zone, Lokhara zone, Dispur zone etc. The survey was completed in April 2015 and according to the results, there are 7,182 street vendors in the city. There are 497 food vendors, 727 cloth vendors, 661 fruit vendors, 2,044 vegetable vendors, 194 fish vendors, 82 meat vendors, 1,163
pan/tamul vendors, 183 chana/ puchka/ bhel muri vendors and 1,631 others. All these vendors will be provided a vending zone and will have legal papers which will give them a permanent place to do business.
The zones According to GMC officials, three places have already been allotted to some vendors. The vendors near GMCH have been allotted with a permanent vending zone. The place under Six Mile Flyover towards Panjabari is also another zone which has been allotted to vendors. In Fancy Bazar, the road from Sharma Sweets to Kedar Road has been allotted to the vendors who were earlier doing business in SS Road. Now GMC is working in places like Chandmari, Jalukbari and Paltan Bazaar to make vending zones. But, according to some city vendors, they were not provided any written notices before being shifted or evicted which is against the Street Vendor’s Act. In
this regard, GMC officials said that the town vending committee has 40 per cent representation from the street vendors and any decision taken about the relocation of the vendors is always discussed and decided by the committee, hence it is presumed that the vendors are informed by their representatives. A highly placed source in the GMC said, “In many zones one vendor owns around 10 shops and when they are relocated, the same person will not get all the 10 shops but only one shop which is a matter of concern for them. Therefore, there are some vendors who are against the decision of relocation.” The source further said that although the vendors struggle to earn their livelihood, there are also many others who have managed to own many shops across the city which they rent it out for a huge amount of money to other struggling vendors and once the relocation of vendors is completed, all the vendors will individually have a permanent place for which they will not even have to pay rent. There will only be a registration fee of Rs 200 and the most affected will be the vendors who already have many shops because they will remain with only one shop in their possession. According to Street Vendors Act, only one member of a family can own a vending place. According to the source, there is a huge nexus between street vendors and some high profile people who are making a huge amount of money. This decision of relocating and registering the vendors will break the nexus and therefore, these people are against the move. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
5
In The News
Students all set to prepare for admissions
Juthika Baruah
W
ith the results of HSLC and HSSLC examinations of the State Board to be declared soon, students are now busy with the preparation of selecting the best colleges for their preferred choice of stream with most students wishing to pursue higher studies outside the state. Out of the 100 students that G Plus talked to, more than 60 students wants to go outside saying that the scope of higher studies is much better in several other states than in Assam and Guwahati. “I am waiting for the results to be declared and after that I will decide whether I will stay here in Guwahati or go outside for higher studies. But I have a dream to go outside and pursue a general course as I want to appear for IAS. For IAS and other civil service examination, there is a scope in Delhi for coaching. I have not found any good institute here in the city and therefore, I want to go to Delhi but it depends on my results. So I am just waiting for the result to be declared as everything else will depend on it,” said Manasi Dutta, a Class XII student while speaking to G Plus. Another student who appeared in the HSLC examination, Arjun Mahanta said that he will pursue his HS
in Guwahati itself, after which he will go to Delhi as it is one of the best cities for pursuing higher studies. “I would love to stay in my homeland if there would have been better scope for jobs and higher studies. Once a student completes his or her studies, they have to remain unemployed or have to join a job which is not up to their satisfaction. Therefore, students are going outside the state and I am also thinking of doing the same as I don’t want to spoil my career. I am not sure whether I will be getting a good opportunity here in Assam,” said Arjun. A Vice Principal of a reputed college of the city, while speaking to G Plus about the changing scenario of the education department said that the education system has changed a lot. “Earlier the system was smooth and there were a few colleges and people studied in those colleges as they don’t have any other option left but still they came out with flying colours. But now-a-days, students have many options and parents also search for the best colleges for their children and the choice of colleges have become a competition among the students rather than bringing a good result. A student’s result do not depend on the college rather it depends on their hard
“Earlier the system was smooth and there were a few colleges and people studied in those colleges as they don’t have any other option left but still they came out with flying colours. But now-a-days, students have many options and parents also search for the best colleges for their children and the choice of colleges have become a competition among the students rather than bringing a good result.” A Vice Principal of a reputed college of the city
work,” said the Vice Principal. The vice principal said that it’s not that the students don’t get adequate scope here in the state but going outside to pursue a career has become a fashion. The colleges of the state also provide good and quality education and the basic thing that a student learns is from the school education itself. Moreover, the colleges are expected to declare the cut off marks for the admissions to Higher Secondary and Degree courses from May last as soon as the results were declared. In Cotton College, the admission procedure to Higher Secondary and Undergraduate cources will start by the end of May. The cut off marks for SEBA will be 75 per cent and for CBSE it will be 85 per
cent. There are 750 seats which will be divided accordingly. When asked about the cut off marks for B. Barooah College, a faculty of the college said “Many students, who secure good marks, apply here but do not turn up during admission because they get through in other colleges in the city. As a result, many seats remain vacant. This is the reason why we do not issue cut-off lists. During admission, names are called out according to merit. If anyone does not turn up, the next candidate in line gets the chance.” The faculty said, “There is no separate cut offs marks for other boards like CBSE or ICSE. Students with 54 per cent have also got admissions in college in arts stream. Last year, the
college received around 1,500 forms in the science stream whereas in arts stream, it was around 1000. Those with merit gets admission according to the seats availability.” For Gauhati Commerce College, forms will be available a day ahead of the declaration of results for both HS and Undergraduate courses. “For HS we have 450 seats and the admission criteria will be decided when we receive all the forms. The cut off marks last year for general students from the state board had been fixed at 74 per cent and for those from CBSE and other boards it was 92 per cent and this year also it will remain the same or it might change depending on the results,” said Principal of the college, Ghanashyam Medhi. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in
Weather report for the week SAT 23 May
SUN 24 May
MON 25 MAy
TUE 26 May
WED 27 May
THU 28 May
FRI 29 May
A few tstorms. Partly sunny.
Thunderstorms. Partly sunny.
Showery. Mostly cloudy.
Passing showers.
Scattered showers.
Rain early. Morning clouds.
Mostly cloudy.
23 / 34 °C
22 / 32 °C
22 / 32 °C
23 / 33 °C
23 / 34 °C
24 / 33 °C
23 / 34 °C
6
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
In The News
Zen Driving Simulator launched by DTO to train new drivers
Juthika Baruah
I
n order to reduce road accidents and to ensure road safety, the District Transport Office of Kamrup Metro has launched a Zen Driving Simulator in the premises of the Principal Drivers’ and Conductors’ Training School. Inaugurating the Zen Driving Simulator and Driving Testing Track, Minister of Sports and Excise, Ajit Singh said, “The driving simulator is important for reducing the accidents as 70 per cent of accidents occurred due to drunken driving. It will also be helpful for women as they do not get the chance to learn driving on a regular basis outside. If they want to apply for a license, they can first practice on the simulator so that they can be perfectly trained before applying for the license.” Singh said that the number of women drivers should be increased and the simulator will help them practice driving in a easy way. He also said that at least 3-4 persons from each district should be provided the training in order to increase the number of skilled drivers. The driving simulator will further be introduced in each district for the convenience of the people. Transport Commissioner J. Balaji said that the online driving test will be introduced soon in the state and modernization is a big problem which needs to be solved. The transport department should also emphasize on
• Has real dashboard assembly and controls, instrumentation and transmission • Offers realistic operating environment and ergonomics • Intelligent Traffic Models in driving scenes • Provides a variety of terrains and driving conditions • Environmental conditions like rain, fog, snowfall, intensity of light can be created • Modular training set-up increases levels of difficulty for trainees • Training can be conducted at different stations with different exercises simultaneously • Training pace can be set to suit trainees • Record/ playback facility can be used to detect errors of each trainee • Instructor station is comprehensive and user friendly.
revenue collection. Zen DS is a versatile indoor classroom driver training simulator of light, medium and heavy vehicles which comes with the option of either a left or right hand drive. The Driving Simulator basic system is supplied with a single instructor station and a driver station but it has facility to control up to ten driver stations of various combinations of vehicles individually or simultaneously. Zen car driving simulator is ideal
for institutes imparting basic training for aspirant drivers. The car simulator, which is a light vehicle simulator, is designed exclusively for driving schools. The car driving simulator is portable and constitutes employing simulators which can impart training effectively and cut trainees’ hours of actual training on road. The driver station has a seat for driver, safety belt and realistic controls, LCD monitors display, 3D CGI driving scenes of different types of
roads, traffic, terrains, environmental conditions and also the rear mirror views. DTO Kamal Das said that the instructor control the sessions, driving exercises and continuously assess the progress of trainees. The clutch, brake, accelerator, engine oil, temperature and various other reading s are displayed on instructor station for individual driver stations. The system continuously records the errors committed by the trainee. “When a per-
son is issued a Learning License, they are being given a period of six months to be expert to get the driving license after qualifying a test drive. But now the people will be tested on the driving simulator which is a duplicate car but gives the feeling of a real car while driving,” said Das. After the trainees are imparted the training, they will be given a test drive in the Driving Testing Track after which they will be issued the license. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in
SOLDIERS, CANNONS AND
G PLUS NEWS
T
Features:
he Government of Assam is all set to install a giant statue of war hero Lachit Borphukan in the middle of the Brahmaputra at Guwahati. The Assam Tourism Development Corporation has put in place another tribute to the legendary war hero. The project is estimated to cost about Rs 3Cr or more. According to sources, work on the statue had begun about a year back and it was initiated by Chief Minister of Assam, Hon’ble Tarun Gogoi and Rockybul Hussain and the project is undergoing its final phase. The statue will also have two cannons and eight soldiers installed along with it. The massive tribute will be established about 120 meters from the river bank at the centre of the Brahmaputra near the ITA Pragjyotika Complex, Machkhowa. The statue of the war hero will stand tall at around 30-34 feet. Owing to its immense size, the statue has been made in several segments. Popular sculptor Sri. Biren Singha had been given the task of building this juggernaut and the ATDC along with
A WAR HERO
the PWD is responsible for the pedestal and future maintenance. However, parts of the main statue still need to be welded and the accompanying soldiers are yet to arrive from Kolkata. The undertaken work still faces hurdles of implementation and completion and the electricity supply is yet to be provided. In addition, owing to the rainfalls, the water level of the Brahmaputra is still high and so there is no concrete date about when the statues would be installed. The city is eagerly waiting for the day when this magnificent structure will grace its skyline.
7
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
LAND SETTLEMENT Kalyan Deb
What is it all about!
City LIC launches an unique flexible children plan –
Jeevan Tarun
T I
n Guwahati, as in the rest of Assam, a very low proportion of land is held as individual freehold. The State government owns majority of the land in Guwahati and over the years, it has given ‘settlement’ through issuing of leases known as pattas. Under the colonial state, there was a shift towards establishing a system of individual land rights. Wherever land did not have individual owners, it was considered to be state property. On the other hand, the state brought out legislations by which it could distribute this land through individual patta (lease). The process of giving patta by the state in Assam is referred to as the “process of settlement.”
The Act of settlement The Assam Land and Revenue Regulation Act 1886, was the legislation enacted to enable the process of settlement. Through this legislation, the colonial state began to give settlement to people on lands that had heretofore been governed through the customary rights of communities but were now considered as state property by the colonial state. On these lands, the legislation thus enabled not only a change in the nature of land rights from customary collective rights to documented individual lease but also the transfer of land rights from tribals and other marginalised communities to others. This process of settlement as well as a transformation in who got and who did not get access and rights to land has continued in the post-independence period. Those who have patta for a plot of land through the process of settlement consider this as their private land since the patta is inheritable and also transferable after a certain period having the characteristics of private land. The Assam Land Policy of 1989
Currently, under the 1989 Land Policy, the Revenue Department issues miyadi patta (periodic patta) in Guwahati that is though it is for a period of 30 years in practice but the same is prolonged. was made under the parent act of 1886. Currently, lease / pattas are given under this policy. Section 14.3 of the policy states that land within Greater Guwahati (and any other town) notified under Government Notification No. RSR-21/59/126 dated October 1, 1966 may be settled on payment of premium with indigenous persons of the state. Currently, under the 1989 Land Policy, the Revenue Department issues miyadi patta (periodic patta) in Guwahati for a period of 30 years. But in practice, the same is prolonged and extends more than this prescribed period.
The process In Guwahati, residences in most areas do not have miyadi(periodic) patta and are only affiliated with eksonia(annual) patta, a settlement of one year that is renewed on payment of land revenue. The process begins with the application along with documents of the property submitted at the office of the circle officer or the Deputy
Commissioner. On the submission of the application with the area of the proposed land, a mandal evaluates if the applicants have been residing on the land, the government value of the plot and the measurement of the plot. The mandal then forwards the report to the state government after which miyadi patta is issued. However, there are certain regulations that are needed to be followed for the allotment of miyadi patta, such as the applicant/owner of the land has to be residing on the plot of land. In cases of the plot being situated within the area of Guwahati Municipal Corporation, miyadi patta is issued by the state government, whereas those situated within ten kilometre radius beyond GMC’s province, the patta is provided by the Deputy Commissioner and for plots beyond ten kilometers, patta is allotted by the circle officer.
The problem faced by commoners Since the revenue charged by the government for issuing of miyadi patta being of a larger amount depending upon the location of the land,it gets beyond the reach of the middle class households, resulting in several properties sticking to the allotted eksonia patta. However, several problems can be caused if miyadi patta is not applied for, such as one will not get loans from banking organisations against the property. Also, such properties can only be transferred within the relatives and family members of the owner, barring such properties to be sold to other parties. Since buying miyadi patta land is expensive, there is no formal land supply that is more affordable. Several areas are not accorded with miyadi patta, which also results in the loss of revenue to the govern-
ment. “The government should make provisions for allotting miyadi patta within a modest amount so that people can easily apply for the same. The eksonia lease was issued to the poor households in order to avail the plot of land to be resided for a year. This is renewed on the payment of land revenue, so for such households it is not feasible for them to pay the revenue required for issuing miyadi pattaa,” said an official from the district administration. Since in different areas of the city, the revenue for issuing miyadi patta varies according to the location and hence, households in several areas across the city do not acquire the settlement. After living on state government land for a period of 15 years, people can apply for miyadi patta under the 1989 Land Policy. However, in recent years, despite the urban poor and middle-class having informally occupied State government land in Guwahati for long durations and some even applying for miyadipatta, the same has not been issued by the state government. “There is no particular duration within which miyadi patta is issued to the applicants. In case of those lands within the province of the GMC, patta can only be issued by the government who execute the process,” the official added. Moreover, having one’s own land is highly valued amongst the people. All this has encouraged people – be it the urban poor or the middle class for whom buying miyadi patta land from a miyadi patta holder is too expensive. Those with more money may buy land or buy eksonia patta land, however, for the poor and lower middle class, even eksonia patta land is expensive. kalyan.deb@g-plus.in
he Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), for the first time, has launched a New Children Plan – Jeevan Tarun from 18.05.2015. This is a non-linked with profit plan which can be taken for children aged 90 days to less than 13 years. The policy matures on the policy anniversary after 25th birthday. Premium paying stops 5 years before that. Major highlights of this plan are that it offers multiple benefits to the customers, these being: Jeevan Tarun The most attractive features of the policy are 1) Low premium – starting from around Rs 300 monthly 2) In case of the unfortunate death of the proposer, premium for the remaining period is waived for a small amount of additional premium 3) Flexibility in availing Maturity benefit – the policy holder can take the entire maturity benefit on the maturity date or spread it over last 6 years as per his choice which is to be exercised at the inception of the policy LIC SANGAM CLOSES ON 1ST JUNE 2015 LIC’s JEEVAN SANGAM will not be available for sale after 1st June 2015. This is an unique plan which is in SINGLE PREMIUM mode with a fixed 12 year term and offers Income Tax Rebate under Section 80 C and also the maturity proceeds is Tax Free under Section 10 (10 D). There is a Guaranteed Maturity Benefit together with Loyalty Addition as per experience. The insurance coverage is 10 times the premium paid. Thus the plan not only gives a high insurance cover and a guaranteed return but also is extremely beneficial from the Income Tax point of view.
8
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
City
HOSTEL ASSOCIATION CRIES FOUL OVER GMC NORMS
Juthika Baruah
M
DEMANDs CLARITY IN REGISTRATION PROCESS
ushrooming growth of private hostels in the city have become a matter of grave concern with most of these establishments lacking proper registrations and the Greater Guwahati Hostel and Paying Guest Owners’ Association alleging that the district administration is not willing to solve the problem. Speaking to G Plus, General Secretary of the association, B.R. Pathak said, “To run a private hostel is not an easy job and the hostels need registration but the criteria laid down by the administration is such that no hostel owner can comply with it.”
Guidelines for issuing Trade License • Commercial Permission of the building • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Fire • NOC from Health • NOC from Labour Employment • Garbage Disposal Agreement • Police Verification • Commercial Tax The hostel owners, if they fail to provide any of these documents as sought by the GMC,will not be provided with the license, said Pathak, pointing out thatthe authority asked for an NOC from the Health Inspector, the post of which, ironically, is not available in the state at all. While asked whether the position of a health inspector is available in the state or not, Joint Commissioner of GMC, Isfakur Rahman informed that a GMC Inspector is available andthe NOC can also be taken from the GMC inspector. Pathak also alleged that NOC from Labour Employment is required only when there are more than two employee engaged in the hostels, but most of them engage only two employees and therefore, one should not need the labour NOC. “The GMC officials themselves do not have any idea of the Trade license form available on the website and they provide a different form to the hostel owner for issuing a trade license where there is no mention made of the documents to be submitted along with the form which are sought verbally by the officials. There are around 750 private hostels in the city but only 250 are registered with most owners refusing to register themselves as they oppose
the criteria given by the department. The registered hostel should give a fee of `200 monthly and `2000 annually to the GMC,” said Pathak. Earlier, to ensure the safety of students, the Assam State Commission for Women (ASCW) had formed a committee with the officials of GMC, GMDA, district administration, ASCW, Police and UNICEF to monitor the situation in the private hostels but now ASCW has handed over the matter to the district administration as it has been decided that the Private Hostel norms should come under Sarai Act, 1867. Meanwhile, Pathak said that the hostel norms can’t come under Sarai
Act as the Act is meant for hotels and the rules of hostels and hotels can’t be same. “Girls hostels are a serious concern and security is the main issue and many untoward incidents may take place therefore which it is necessary to have a tight security. The committee was formed to monitor whether the private hostels have proper licenses and are registered or not. But now the matter is being looked into by the administration,” said Monideepa Borkataky, Member Secretary of ASCW. On the other hand, Indrajit Baruah, the owner of a city based hostel while speaking to G Plus said, “The Government gives subsidy to the government hostels but not to
“security, hygienic food, water supply and electricity are the main concerns but when the departments cut power or the water supply, it becomes the headache of the owners to provide the hostelites with all the facilities. He said that the GMC has made the business of private hostels’commercial’ for bearing a trade license.” a city based hostel owner
the private hostels. The agreement made by the Government for the private hostels are one-sided where only the concerned department has the advantage while the hostel ownersget nothing. I have been running my hostel since 20 years now. While I used to give `5000 annually for garbage disposal, with the GMC now handing over the contract to NGOs,we have to pay Rs. 1000 monthly but they do not come to collect the garbage for two days sometimes.” Baruah said that security, hygienic food, water supply and electricity are the main concerns but when the departments cut power or the water supply, it becomes the headache of the owners to provide the hostelites with all the facilities. He said that the GMC has made the business of private hostels’commercial’ for bearing a trade license. The rush of students is more during July-August but now it is seen that people want a hostel, mainly in the city as most of themcome here for higher studies and jobs. Gyandeepa Kashyap, a student who live in a hostel,said that the hostel should provide good quality food and should have a proper security system. “Overall the owners provide good facilities but the food quality is often poor which should be improved. We give money to provide us the basic facilities,” said Gyandeepa. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in
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G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
City
Assamese Chinese daughter appeals to meet parents in China
Aditya Gogoi
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he city witnessed an emotional scene this week when a woman, now in her late 50s, appealed everyone, including the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to help her meet her parents. Lyong Linchi alias Pramila Das has been separated from her parents for more than five decades now. She was just six years old when the Indian police detained her parents before deporting them to China in the wake of Sino-Indian war in 1962. Pramila Das, a resident of Tinsukia district believe that her parents are among others living in some camps in China. “Separated from my family at an early age, I have been passing my days in deep pain. I know my parents are old and ailing. I long to meet them soon before they leave for the heavenly abode,” a tearful Pramila Das told G Plus. Police detained her parents along with hundreds of other people of Chi-
nese origin during the war and sent them to Deoli internment camp in Rajasthan before they were deported to China and other parts of the globe. She has also written to the union home minister Rajnath Singh, seeking his intervention in meeting her parents in China. Pramila is among the several hundreds of Assamese people of Chinese origin facing a severe identity crisis. Most of these Chinese people had come much before India’s independence. They were brought to Assam by East India Company officials for establishing the tea industry. After that there were some voluntary migration from China to Assam and Bengal. Remembering the fateful day, Pramila Das said that she was away at her grandparents house when they heard that many of their neighbours were being deported on trains due to the war. “We rushed to the train station
Study reveals worst scene of domestic violence Aditya Gogoi
E
ven with several schemes initiated by the government, violence against women does not seem to be decreasing in the state. Horrific scenes of violence against women has been revealed in a recent study by an NGO in Assam. Guwahati based North East Network (NEN) which conducted the study on 1,200 women survivors of domestic violence across the state says that 83.7 percent women are beaten by family members, husbands or by masters in their day to day lives. This is the highest form of all types of domestic violence. The report further reveals that 34.1 percent women have to face forced sexual intercourse at some point of their lives. “The study was conducted to understand the nature of domestic violence in rural Assam within women’s human rights framework and to develop a baseline. We also wanted to understand the perspectives and roles of the agencies available at the community level and their response to the critical needs of women survivors of domestic violence. But the outcome is pretty unfortunate,” said Anurita P Hazarika, one of the researchers of the report. The study has categorized the violence faced by women as –
physical abuse, sexual, verbal and emotional, economic violence and dowry related harassment. Besides beating, the respondents have complaints of getting slapped, hitting, biting, kicking, punching, pushing, shoving and other manners. “My husband used to harass me a lot. He used to beat me with an iron rod or anything he could get hold of. He used to squeeze my neck and pull me by my hair. Due to such brutal tortures, I suffered miscarriage twice and now I cannot bear children anymore,” a 31 year old respondent was quoted as saying in the report. More than 80 percent women face insults which include humiliation, especially, with regard to not having a child or male child and repeated threats to cause physical pain. This is categorized as verbal and emotional abuse. The women who were interviewed for the report represented more than 40 ethnic communities and more than five religions. The study was carried out in Golaghat, Jorhat, Sivasagar, Tinsukia, Darrang, Udalguri, Kokrajhar and Sonitpur districts. The report recommends that the state government must immediately draw up a state action plan to monitor the implementation of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act 2005.
but the train had already left. Since then we are separated,” said said. But she received a letter from her parents from China around 15 years back. “Our parents kept on sending letters but we received the first letter after 30 years. We have also been talking over phone to each other for the last 10 years. My parents are also longing to see me but without help of the government, this is not possible,” she added. Her father, Lyong Kokhoi was a carpenter at Rangagara tea estate in Tinsukia district and her mother, Chanu Leong was a Mizo. Rita Chowdhury, an award winning author who has written the book ‘Makam’ on the plight of this community has appealed to the government so that they can live with dignity. “Most of these people in Assam got married to local girls and settled down there. As time passed by, a large society of the Assamese-Chinese formed and flourished in Assam. An
estimated 1,500 people of Chinese origin are believed to be living in Assam. They forgot their own language and most of them never went back to China again. Most of the people were illiterate and ignorant of the political changes,” Chowdhury said. But after the 1962 India-China war, they were sent to a detention camp in Deoli in Rajasthan so that they don’t work as spies. “Some of them were deported to China while a few were released later.
Those released came back to Assam only to find that their property were all gone. The deported people are still considered as Indian refugees,” she adds. The senior lecturer in Political Science at Cotton College in Guwahati urged the government and the civil society to come forward to provide necessary political and social protection to the Indian-Chinese “living in silence, fear and insecurity”.
AGP rally against government’s anti-state policy
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som Gana Parishad (AGP) on Wednesday carried out a protest rally featuring all its senior leaders, including former chief minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, against the ‘anti-state’ policy of the central and state government in Guwahati. The AGP leadership said that it’s time the people of the state realize the dismal future of the country under the current government. The regional party is protesting a series of policies including cancelling the special state status for Assam, the land swap deal and price hike of essential commodities among others. “Taking advantage of a weak government in Assam, the central government has cancelled the special state status. It will hamper the economic growth of the state. This is just another instance which indicates that the BJP government has been cheating the people of the state,” said former Assam chief minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, after taking part in the rally. The 50:50 central funding pattern was reduced to 90:10 after the BJP government came to power, he added. He also said that there is no difference between the earlier UPA government and this NDA government at the centre when it comes to
The 50:50 central funding pattern was reduced to 90:10 after the BJP government came to power the development of the state and the northeast region. The rally, which started from the party headquarters and travelled across the city saw the participation of hundreds of workers and leaders of the party. AGP president Atul Bora warned the BJP and the Congress not to play politics with the interest of the state. “We will not let the BJP and the Congress to compromise with the interest of the people. We will not let anybody to play politics for their personal gain. The Assam Accord has to be implemented besides proper updation of NRC,” Bora said. He also said that the people of the state should realize that only a
regional party can work for the development of the state. Among others, the Lower Subansiri Hydroelectric Power Project (LSHEP) and the Indo-Bangladesh Land Swap Agreement are the major issues on which the BJP government is playing politics with the people of the state, according to the AGP leadership. “There is not a single instance that the BJP government has worked for the betterment of the region in the last one year. So far whatever they have been doing is for their own gain. In every aspect, they are interested in their personal gain,” said AGP general secretary Ramendra Narayan Kalita.
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G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
City
Elderly couple show the way
Priyanka Jain
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CONJUGAL BLISS at old age home
ld age comprises “the later part of life; the period of life after youth and middle age usually with reference to deterioration of physical attributes. When old age begins cannot be universally defined because it shifts according to the context. Old people often have limited regenerative abilities and are more susceptible to disease, syndromes, and sickness than younger adults. But simply because they are at the fag end of their lives, there should not be any restriction on how they wish to live their remaining days. In fact, this is what elderly couple Shantannu Kumar and Manju Singh Rai just did. Both residents of Mother Old Age Home near New Guwahati, Ganesh Nagar, the elderly Bengali couple, Kumar, aged 73 and Rai aged 63 decided to tie the knot on 20th May 2015. Das was married earlier, but his wife died three years ago while Rai was not married at all. Both of them have no one in their lives and so they decided to get married. Das was also the first person to come to the ashram in 2012 and has been staying there till date. The couple has decided to stay in the ashram after their wedding. “Everyone should respect their parents. When parents become old, we are not supposed to leave them alone,we should become their support system. This is the time when
they need our help but we end up putting them in ashrams. I want people of Guwahati should come to such ashrams, help and donate as they can and meet the people who often go to such traumas and pain,“ said the secretary of Mother Old Age, Monica Sharma, while talking to G Plus. When asked, what made her come up with the idea of opening an old age home, she said “My colleague, Utpal Kumar Harshvarhdhan and I, used to work with an NGO, Monalisa Society. From there we decided to do something for the society as we wanted to bring some change. In the year 2012, we fulfilled our dreams by opening a Shelter Home. We have 21 elderly inmates in the ashram, out of which six are working while the rest are ailing from diseases like paralysis. Some are blind; some are going through Alzheimer and other old age related diseases.” she said. The ashram taken in women inmates from age 55-plus while for men, it is 60-plus. Recently, the oldest inmate at the home, who, everyone lovingly called Grandmother, died at the age of 104 due to diarrhoea. Now the oldest woman in the home is aged 95 years. When G Plus asked how they collect the required fund for maintenance of the home, Monica replied “There are various organizations who donate to us, like Oil Refinery who send us monthly food products,
clothes etc. For others, we spend some from our own pockets. As I said earlier, six people who still work give something from their savings and there are several pensioners who even contribute. Many of our equipment like the inverter, and the aqua guard have been donated by well wishers. “Now we are planning to shift to a bigger place so that we can accommodate more people. Here, as it is a rented building, only 21 people can be accommodated. There are six workers who cook food, clean and
take care of this elderly people. Even though the government had promised us with some help, nothing has materialised so far. We have all the basic facilities like 24-hours water supply and electricity”, she added. When asked what do the elderly inmates do the whole day, she replied “As most of them suffer from one ailment or other, they mostly watch television, while some listen to music to soothe themselves. We also have a temple here, so some of them go and sit there too. I feel bad for them as
their children leave them when their parents need them the most. It’s my humble request to everyone to come visit and talk to them. You feel good and even they will feel good.“ When asked to an old woman about her experience at the ashram she said, “I am 80 year old and my children are busy earning so they did not have time for me. I was feeling lonely even after staying with them, so I left my home and came here. I don’t regret leaving that home as I am happy with my decision.”
Maruti’s ‘Fab Four’ lead pack among India’s favourite cars G PLUS NEWS
A
ggressive foreign carmakers are trying their best to break into the country’s top-selling brands, but in the great Indian road race, there’s still no overtaking Maruti Suzuki. Data collated by HT and confirmed by companies shows that India’s biggest carmaker accounted for the four biggest-selling cars in the financial year to March 31, the third year in a row that it has been so dominant. The powerful showing from Maruti’s dimunitive cars comes despite the much-hyped launch 18 months ago of Hyundai’s Grand i10, and the challenge from Indian rivals such as Mahindra and Tata who share some of Maruti’s strengths in distribution. The company’s entry-level Alto nonchalantly topped the charts for the 11th-year running, while compact sedan Dzire and hatchback cousin Swift crossed sales of
200,000 units for the first time. The days when it had a 90% market share - before the advent of cheap Korean rivals - are long gone, but in 2014-15 Maruti grew its market share by 4 percentage points to 46%, thanks in large part to the performance of its top four models. “In last fiscal, number of firsttime buyers improved to around 44% from around 37% in 201314. This gives a positive signal for entry-level cars, where Maruti has a strong presence,” a company spokesperson said. Sales of the Alto included five months of the peppier Alto K10, which also offered the world’s cheapest automatic variant. This launch helped Alto grow for the first time in four years, and it’s still some 90,000 off its peak sales recorded in 2010-11. The 15-year-old Wagon R showed its staying power. The only non-Maruti in the
top 5 is the Mahindra Bolero, which saw sales decline by 6% during 2014-15 due to falling farm incomes. The next three cars in the top 10 are all Hyundai: the Grand
i10, the recently launched Elite i20, and the Eon. Honda’s mid-size sedan City also re-enters the list after a 5-year break and is also the fastest growing brand in the country.
For the second straight year, no Tata car could measure up against competition. Its new launches Zest and Bolt have only met with lukewarm response so far.
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
11
City
TORQUE SPEED ADRENALINE
Motorsports in Guwahati
Kalyan deb
G
uwahati may not be known for producing any Naraine or Chandhok, but few are perhaps aware that several car rallies take place in the city every year. The city has also produced a host of champion drivers such as Arindam Saikia, Atihur Rahman and Ravi Aggarwal, who have achieved recognition at regional and national levels. But their numbers have dwindled lately, with southern India now taking over as the country’s motorsport hub. “Youngsters willing to take up car rallying as a career are flocking to clubs down South now, whereas opportunities await them here through several corporate teams such as MRF, JK Tyres, Thunderbolt, Mahindra and several others,” said Mrinmoy Sinha, a motor sport enthusiast and president, Extreme Games Association of Assam. “The number of motor sport drivers are very limited in the city but this can get a boost through support from the government. We see youths speeding across the traffic and shout at them for doing so but among them, are also enthusiasts who want to make their mark in motor sports. But due to the lack of recreational grounds, they are not able to hone their skills and rather carry out stunts on the city streets,” added Sinha, who is one of the pioneers in rally sports in the city. Organised by the Extreme Games Association of Assam (EGAA), the brain child of Mrinmoy Sinha and Dr. Dipjyoti Hanse, the association took the initiative to organise the first ever motor sport in Guwahati held in the year 2010 in Time, Speed and Distance (TDS) format at the Veterinary ground, Khanapara. Since then, EGAA has been the torchbearer of the sport in the city and was the first to introduce Drag Race in northeast and Autocross in Assam. Followed by 2010’s TSD Rally, the sport has been organised in the city every year under the title ‘Torque
Power Challenge’ with a steady flow of participants from across the country including the northeastern giants, Meghalaya and Nagaland from where over twenty participants from each state have been taking part. The EGAA events took place on the Brahmaputra beach at West Guwahati after it was transformed into a makeshift drag racing track with the help of JCB trucks and the tracks watered for three days in order to make the speeding cars trail-blaze their way in the Torque Power Challenge. The event is held on a three-day timeline, organised by the Extreme Games Association of Assam to promote a spirit of adventure and unity amongst the different states and the car enthusiasts of the city through extreme sports. “Close to 40 participants from different parts of the northeast take part in the event every year. Through the event, we aim to create awareness of extreme sports by bringing people together. There is a wide scope to develop extreme sports in this region and the good thing is that gradually people are showing interest in,” said Sinha. The event includes motorcycle stunt shows where professionals as well as amateur bikers display their skills and in the four-wheelers category, the drag race events are held in three different categories that include above and below 1000 CC vehicles and Gypsy-class level. Racers can be seen zooming past one another with their modified vehicles as the venue provides the perfect pitch to abandon all restraint in flooring the gas and the growls emanating from their exhausts tear down the serenity of the river front, often taking the onlookers by surprise. Though the sport has become popular around the country, it still strives for recognition among Guwahatians. “Motorsports being traditionally
a rich man’s domain, mass participation has always been a hurdle for sponsorships and funding. It costs several lakhs of rupees while organising an event. Hence, without corporate sponsorships, it is extremely difficult for the sport to thrive. Thus, most part of the expenses have to be paid from our pocket itself and we keep on continuing only to boost the sport among the people. We have approached the state’s tourism and sports departments several times to obtain the government’s support but no response has been received so far,” informed Sinha who himself has clinched several titles in the 3rd and 4th Nagaland Horsepower Challenge, Arunachal Festival of Speed, Sutunga Sports and Games among others. Motor sports in the Northeast has given a new shape to national integration as several events are carried out in various regions of this part of the country throughout the year in affiliation with the Federation of Motor Sport Club of India (FMSCI), providing a platform for budding motorsport enthusiasts to showcase their talents and compete at the national level. Motorsports in India dates back to the 1970’s but the concept of automobile racing was just in its nascent stage at that point of time. The Indian motor sport scenario changed in 1980 with the establishment of the Himalaya Car Rally. The Indian government has recently recognised motor sports as a sport by including the governing body FMSCI in the list of sports ministrybacked National Sports Federations (NSF). The ministry has included motor
sports in its latest revision of sports disciplines, albeit in the ‘Others’ category, meaning no financial assistance will be provided to the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI). Today the motor sport market in India
is worth `20 crores. Corporate giants like Tata and Maruti are willing to promote the sport in the country by attaching their names with renowned motor sports persons kalyan.deb@g-plus.in
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G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
Politicking
14 years of Congress government in Assam
Syeda Ambia Zahan
T
he Tarun Gogoi led Congress government in the state has recently completed its 14th year in power in the state of Assam. Amidst intensive debate over the achievements by the 14-year-old Congress government, the state government has planned elaborate celebrations on May 23 and 24 to highlight the government’s achievement in various fields. An ever enthusiastic CM Tarun Gogoi said, “We came to power in 2001, which was the worst period in Assam’s history. The law-and-order situation had collapsed at that time. Development activities had come to a
halt. The government employees were not paid their salaries. People, even in Guwahati, were not able to venture out of home at night. Militant groups were having a free run. But now the situation has changed.” Well, if success is what the government is claiming as a feather in their cap, there are other sectors in the state where the three –time government has miserably failed to bring an upliftment. Here are few facts of the fourteen year rule by the Tarun Gogoi government that the people of the state ought to know:
Facts you ought to know 5 achievements of Congress Government in the past 14 years 1. Employment Front: In the last 14 years, 85 lakh people got employment in Assam. This includes self-employment, along with those in government and private sectors. 2. Per capita income: Per Capita Income has risen to Rs. 49,480 in the last fiscal from Rs. 13,059 in 2001-02, while the GSDP stood at Rs. 1,62,652 crore as against Rs. 38,313 crore during the same period. 3. Tax collection: Tax collection rose to Rs. 8,177.26 crore from Rs.1,270.33 crore, while excise revenue went up to Rs. 665 crore in Financial Year 2015 from Rs. 147 crore in Financial Year 2002. 4. Bank deposits: Bank deposits by people increased to Rs. 76,795 crore in 2013-14 from Rs.10,992 crore in 2001-02. The loans taken by the public also rose to Rs. 33,763 crore in the last fiscal from Rs. 3,663 crore. 5. Agricultural production: Agricultural production reached 54.50 tonnes from 38.54 tonnes between 2001 and 2014, while Rs. 6,000 crore of agricultural loans were taken in the last fiscal from a negligible amount at the time he became the Chief Minister for the first time.
Five failures of Congress Government: 1. Non-Utilization of central fund: Shantanu Basu, Principal Accountant General of Assam in a report has said that an astronomical amount of around Rs 86,000 crore could not be utilised in the last ten years. In the year 2013-2014 fiscal, out of Rs. 12,500 crore allotted to Assam by the Centre, the Gogoi led government was able to utilize only Rs 8132.04 crore. 2. Infiltration: The Congress led government has failed to keep a check on infiltration from neighboring Bangladesh. The government has always been criticized for using these people as their vote banks in the past elections in the state. The state has failed in its responsibility to provide utilisation certificates of funds received from the Centre. 3. Insurgency: The year 2014 had registered an overall rise in insurgency-related violence in the state with a total of 305 fatalities. In 2012, the overall fatalities stood at 91. Worryingly, in 2014, Assam recorded the highest number of civilian fatalities since 2008, when civilian fatalities stood at 224. The Gogoi government, despite putting considerable effort to bring some of the militant outfits to the discussion table has miserably failed to put a check in fatalities. In terms of overall fatalities, Assam is now the worst-affected state in India. 4. Rights of tea workers: Many international human rights organizations have criticized the Gogoi government for failing to ensure the right to life with dignity of tea plantation workers. The death of ten tea workers due to starvation in the year 2012 proved that the present government has failed to guarantee their right to life with dignity for decades. The rights of plantation workers to minimum wage, housing and basic medical facilities in accordance with the Plantation Labour Act 1951 have not been implemented. 5. Farmers’ suicide: Assam witnessed around 15,000 suicides in the last five years, most of the cases involving men aged between 30 and 44 years. A study of suicide cases registered with the state police since 2008 showed that most men committed suicide out of frustration on being unable to meet rising financial needs. Among the 15,000 deaths, more than 8000 are with a background of farming. With these fact, Assam has also entered its election year with the assembly elections due latest by April 2016.
CCSU Astronomy and Astrophysics Summer School in city from June 22 to July 11
T
he CCSU Astronomy and Astro-physics Summer School, 2015 will be organized by the Cotton College State University (CCSU) from June 22 to July 11. CCSU Vice Chancellor, Dhruba Saikia said, “The summer school will be organised at the Panbazar campus of the CCSU and it will cover several topics including binary stellar
systems, pulsars, stars and stellar evolution, interstellar medium, galaxies, cosmology and large-scale structure formation, gravitational waves, clusters of galaxies and active galaxies”. The summer school will be targeted at the undergraduate level but the post-graduate and research students can also apply for this. Internationally known astronomers from both within
the country and abroad will be included as faculty members. The deadline for submitting applications is June 1. Saikia said, “Participants will be able to gather experience in data analysis, screening of astronomy related movies, intensive tutorials and night sky watching sessions. Interested persons can browse the CCSU website for further details”.
Coffee Festival begins in city
C
offee Festival is a beverage show and tell initiative for consumers of Café Coffee Day (CCD). CCD endeavours to share the art of brewing coffee and a few tips on brewing tea with consumers through the `Coffee Festival’ series. The festival has been launched in Guwahati on Friday and will go on for an entire month till 20th June, 2015. A first look of the Coffee Festival was
held at the Anil Plaza Café at GS. Road in Guwahati. Four cafes in Guwahati will be hosting the Coffee Festival all this month — the CCD cafés at Anil Plaza. Green Building, R. G. Baryah Road and The Hub. Consumers can walk into any of these outlets and learn how to make a cuppa using simple coffee making tools like, the ‘French Press’ and ‘Stovetop Espresso’ right in the comfort of their homes.
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
13
In Conversation
I never faced any political interference GMC commissioner S Viswanathan is likely to be transferred to another department but before his departure, he talks exclusively to G Plus about the challenges and experiences which he faced in Guwahati during his tenure.
GMC Chief
RAHUL CHANDA
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escribe your journey before becoming the commissioner of Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) ? I was born in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. I did my mechanical engineering and then my MBA in finance. I qualified as IAS in 2008 batch and since then I have worked in Jorhat as Assistant Commissioner, SDO Civil in South Salmara, ADC in Kamrup (Metro), Joint Secretary, Home and Political in Guwahati before becoming the GMC Commissioner. I joined here on 21 June 2013. I took the charge during the rainy season.
During your tenure, what are the major changes you witnessed in Guwahati? First, the solid waste management has improved in Guwahati tremendously. Ramky’ contract has been terminated and the entire process has been taken up by the GMC. Secondly, the efficiency of the employees have improved. The amount of hard labour that they are putting in has increased tremendously and it can be noticed. Thirdly, what I have observed is the increased effort for flood free Guwahati like desiltation, widening of channels, removal of encroachments-everything is happening and it can be observed that water is now draining out at a faster pace. Another important change which I have noticed during my tenure is that while earlier there used to be multiple agencies for similar works for example street lights were the responsibility of both the GMC as well as the PWD, desiltation works were with PWD as well as GMC. During meetings at the secretariat, I stressed that multiple agencies means there is no accountability. It should be given to one agency. There was always a view that if there is a single agency to handle the work, then the entire responsibility comes to us. I said that we will take care of that. Even if it goes wrong, we will take the blame and responsibility. So, the entire street light infrastructure was handed over to GMC by PWD and all the desiltation work was also handed over to GMC. Lastly, the public interface has improved. We have started using Facebook, Whatsapp, control room numbers and any issue from the pub-
“I have observed that nowadays public do not throw garbage everywhere. Guwahati people are more conscious these days and I want this attitude to continue.”
During your tenure did you ever face any political interference in your work? I never faced any political interference.
As you are leaving now, do you think you have achieved your goals for Guwahati? Most of the projects are in final stages. As far as I am concerned, I had a good tenure and wherever I am posted, I will go and work there. A new successor can now take it forward and complete it.
Inspite of doing so much of good work, why do you think you are being transferred?
lic now gets resolved soon. Because of the interaction, the respect for the GMC employees has increased. I have seen engineers and sweepers in the field telling us that if they say they are GMC employees, people have started trusting them.
It is a part and parcel of the government duty. Wherever the government sends us, we go and work there.
According to you, what has been your highest and lowest points as GMC commissioner?
What will be your advice to the new GMC commissioner? GMC is a local self government and it is not like any other government job. It is totally different and highly public centric. Every public issue has to be dealt with and it is a 24/7 work. Every civic amenity has to be taken care of as this post has a lot of impact on day to day life like household building, water supply, the drain cleaning, street lights etc. We are touching people’s day to day life so this post has to be considered with that sympathy and empathy.
The highest point for me would be that the city has come a long way from its earlier dirty and unhygienic look. Now the city has improved and become neat, clean and hygiene conscious. It is an important achievement. The lowest point would be when last year inspite of all our efforts, two big flash floods hit the the city. One on June 26th – 27th when water logging happened and later on September 22 because of the sudden 165mm rainfall. The June 27 incident was my low point as the rainy season had just started but in September the rainfall was high, so it can be understood.
What were the challenges you faced during implementation and execution of various plans and schemes which you implemented? Municipal Corporation is run
What is your message for Guwahatians? by public elected representatives. GMC employees have four different unions. The amount of workload which comes from government is also there. So, to make a balance and set things moving is one of the biggest challenge in GMC. We had to make the public representatives understand why certain decision is required and
we had to work as a team. There should always be checks and balances between the union, council body, authorities and the public and that was the biggest challenge. I believe that so far we have done it reasonably well. The number of strikes during my period has come down drastically as compared to earlier times.
That they have come of age in the last few years and I think that they have also grown and taken responsibility on their shoulders. I have observed that nowadays public do not throw garbage everywhere. Guwahati people are more conscious these days and I want this attitude to continue. rahul.chanda@g-plus.in
14
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
Ward Watch
Ward No. 10
Lakhtokia, Gate NO 2
Absence of railway barricade major cause of accidents
Kalyan Deb
Concentrated area J Ali Road, Gate number 2
G
ate number 2 area adjacent to AT Road is known to all Guwahatians. Named as J. Ali Road, it is a connecting road between AT Road and Lakhtokia that is prominent for being the business hub. The area is also known among the people for mostly dealing in electronic products. Being located alongside the business hub of the city, the area remains busy with all kind of vehicles commuting through the area. Amidst the pedestrians who have to travel through the narrowed down road due to vehicles (mostly two wheelers) parked on both sides of the road, traffic remains mostly congested due to carts, rickshaws and other vehicles commuting through the particular road. The traffic congestion in the area that begins with vehicles at the beginning of the day lasts late into the night.
Sub division 10(A) Councilor MRIGEN SARANIA Phone number 98640 43462 Area sabha member Tariq Hussain Phone number 98644 13000 Population of ward number 10 30,000(approx.) Voters 21,000(approx.) Problems Parking, Traffic congestion, Absenteeism of railway barricade
People’s Say Although the occasional traffic snarl causes trouble to the occasional commuters, it is not a bother for the entrepreneurs and those who commute regularly. “The traffic congestion has become a part of our daily life and we have accommodated with it. Due to the lack of proper parking space, the vehicles have to be parked on both sides of the road. The only troublemakers are the rickshaws who intrude the bottleneck near the railway gate. There is no other way other than shifting the parking space to a nearby area which is not likely to happen in the near future”, said Niranjan Das, a local entrepreneur. Meanwhile, a dissatisfied passerby asserted, “Streets are meant for people to commute and not for parking vehicles. It is very evident for anyone passing by, how the road has been congested due to parking.” Besides the lack of proper parking space and traffic congestion, which is not much of a concern for the local entrepreneurs, the lack of barricade at the railway gate number two is what concerns the locals. “The lack of barricade at the railway gate is a worrisome issue. People and other vehicles keep traveling throughout the day, even while a train is approaching. Though in similar areas with barricades, people have the habit of trespassing but installing a barricade would help in bringing down the rate of mishaps that take place in the area. It has been
over twenty years since a gate existed and no such initiative has been taken so far to reconstruct the same,” added Niranjan Das. Another concern that exists among the locals is the danger posed due to the lack of barricade at the railway gate while the train reverses back to the railway station. “When the train moves forward, the people are alerted by the train horn that keeps honking while approaching the intersection, but most accidents takes place when the train, after getting past the gate, reverses back to the station through the same route. The engine being on the other end, the sound of the horn is not audible enough for the passers by, which is one of the vital reasons for causing fatal accidents. At most times, people manage to appraise one another by shouting about the approaching train if anyone is
noticed trying to cross the railway track”, said Ashu Dutta, a local shop owner. “The passers-by are equally responsible for causing accidents as they should be more careful while crossing a railway line. Even after the presence of railway barricades, people tend to cross such gates while a train is approaching but the presence of a barricade and a security personnel is a priority in this area as it is used by a large number of people everyday”, Dutta stated. As alleged by local shop owners and the passers-by, the railway gate has been in the current state for over twenty years and according to some, there has never been a railway gate that existed in the area. Even though it is used by a large population everyday, the gate remains neglected by railway authorities at the risk of the lives of the people.
Says the concerned authorities Talking to GPlus councilor Mrigen Sarania informed that the gate number two in J. Ali road was never meant to be a road as informed by the railway department. “It was only meant for pedestrians to pass through as it is a connecting road to Lakhtokia and any kind of vehicles are barred to pass by through the area hence, the posts were installed on both sides of the railway tracks. Gates can not be positioned in the area as the same would initiate the emerging of vehicles and being situated near the railway station the progression of trains will keep continuing”, said the councilor. “Although an initiative will be taken in order to build a foot over bridge to make it safer and convenient for the pedestrians but prior to the process several issues will have to be looked after such as the vendors that occupy the area by railway tracks. Such vendors will have to permanently be removed from the area to widen the path and make it safer for the people nearby”, Sarania added. In context to the problem of parking in the area the councilor said that the businessmen in the area should be more disciplined while parking their vehicles as there are large number of shops and business outlets in the area. kalyan.deb@g-plus.in
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
15
Vox Pop
GUWAHATIANS ON MODI GOVERNMENT
O
n May 15, 2014, as the nation waited for the general election results, it was almost certain that Narendra Modi would lead India for the next five years. With just over a year since then and the government having completed one year in power, a lot has happened in the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his ministers entered office on May 26 last year and that date is
being observed as Jan Kalyan Parv (People’s Welfare Festival) in an apparent bid to counter the opposition’s allegation that the Modi government is “pro-corporate” or in Congress leader Rahul’s Gandhi’s words, a “suit-boot ki sarkar.” Apart from a review of the government’s performance in the last one year, the top ministers reportedly discussed a broad blueprint of the government’s agenda for the next
year, with continued focus on rejuvenation of the economy and policies for the poor. The PM is also believed to have briefed the ministers about his trip to China, Mongolia and South Korea, designed primarily to invite investment in India. G Plus brings to you what some Guwahatians have to say on Narendra Modi’s tenure in the Prime Minister’s office for the past one year.
Ripunjoy Baruah Student
Prafulla Kumar Mahanta Former Chief Minister
Brozen Saikia Corporate Professional
In my opinion, whatever promises were made by BJP prior to the election have been retained in the past year and much more has to be done in the years to come. Progress has been made with concern to development, be it the finance sector or defense. I thoroughly support the development that has been initiated in the defense sector but the railway department requires special concern. Although the land acquisition bill has generated controversy, but people has misinterpreted what would help the development of rural areas of the country.
The promises that were made by the Bharatiya Janta Party prior to the elections, the party has failed to keep any of them. Moreover, as said earlier by Modi, more power would be given to the states among which Assam has not been paid any concern.
To judge a person’s performance, that too when he is the Prime Minister of a country, is pretty tough to do so in merely one year. But, yes in the past oneyear marketing of India as a brand has been seen in the global perspective and as citizens of the country, we need to wait patiently for the outcome. At the same time, emphasis on internal issues like poverty, insurgency, etc. are expected to be given in the coming days excluding which, fruitful results will not come for any step he may take for now and as a citizen, I would only express encouragement in steps taken for the welfare of the people.
Pranab Jyoti Das Student It has only been a year and it is too early for the bold steps that the Prime Minister has taken to bear fruits. But one thing is for sure that he is going in the right direction, which is now more relevant, a question to be asked taking into consideration this short period of time.
Madhu Chanda Adhikary Senior Manager, Corporate Communications I think they have made a very good start and made very substantive changes, which is visible. Especially, their ambitious schemes have made a difference in how people view certain things for example, the Swacch Bharat scheme that has made changes in the mindset of people at the grassroot level to maintain cleanliness and sanitation. Similarly, there are other schemes that are very enthusiastic that has made a visible impact and it’s definitely made a very good start despite all constraints in updating a complex country like India. Even in the world stage, India has again emerged as one of the most important countries and I don’t think there has been any kind of disappointment. The expectations have gone very high and although they might not stand up to the expectations, India is definitely emerging once again and people have become more patriotic and more conscious about social issues.
Mehdi Alam Bora Member, Media Department, APCC Narendra Modi, in the past one year, has made 117 u-turns in context to the promises he made prior to the election, doing which, he has betrayed the people of the nation.
Bharat chandra Narah Press advisor to the Chief Minister Several promises that were made by the Modi government has not been kept till now. In the past year, no initiative has been taken in favour of Assam and not a single project has been passed for the development of the state. Also the special category status of the region has been revoked, besides slashing funds for several schemes. Earlier, the Modi government had also promised to stop the ongoing work on the mega dam project over River Subhansiri but now the government is working in favour of the continuation of the project.
Bhabajit Choudhury MMA FIGHTER & TRAINER
T
he journey of Bhabajeet began way back fifteen years ago as a child when he was merely twelve years old. He started training in Martial Arts under the guidance of Diganta Haloi at his native place Patachalkuchi in Bojali district. Being a sport enthusiast, the urge to learn the skills of various forms of combat was present in him from a very young age and the same helped in making the path for Bhabajeet very clear to him. The twenty eight years old made his mark in the world stage by claiming the SFL (Super Fight League) World Ranking 4th in the world of MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) and that was when the Indian audience learned about Bhabajet. The invite to be a part of SFL was received in the year 2012, following his venture in Vietnam after Bhabajeet clinched the Asian bronze medal following his three times national championship title in Wu Shu. “Though I started with martial arts as MMA was not in existence back then, the journey so far took fifteen years of tough training. After learning martial arts from Diganta Haloi for around three to four years, I moved on to learn kick boxing and gradually Wu Shu, Westling and so on but there is still a lot to achieve”, stated Bhabajeet. “All these could not have been possible without the support of my family and friends. Though initially my parents were not happy about me taking up training in combat sports, but they never kept me from attending any class. It was mostly an inner urge which I could feel that they would rather be happier if I missed my martial arts classes but gradually their support began to show and they started to encourage me to do better. No achievement can be achieved until one has the support of family and friends”, Choudhury added. Apart from Wu Shu, Kung Fu and MMA, Bhabajeet has mastered and made his mark in several other combat sports such as Kick Boxing and represented in the International Kick Boxing Fderation Championship and claimed the silver medal in his first ever international venture in the year 2007. In the year 2013, Bhabajeet was awarded as Asia’s best fight finisher. In the same year Bhabajeet’s journey took a major turn when he left his job in the Central Wu Shu team of ITBP and came back to Guwahati. “I came to Guwahati with the hope that since the region has promising talents in martial arts, it can grow in the world of combat sport but which is now missing due to lack of advanced training. So with a motive that I could deliver more great talents which have al-
ready been discovered, I left my job, which was not an easy decision to make but decided to continue fighting. I started training here in Guwahati and in the year 2014 came up with Bidang MMA and Fitness Gym and recently celebrated the first year anniversary of the gym”, Bhabajeet asserted. “Since MMA is all about the combination of the best moves from all types of combat sports, so it makes MMA a complete fitness package. One will not just train in martial arts but also Wrestling, Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wu Shu but all kind of fitness trainings are included. MMA is the most effective self-defense and with the concept of making the most effective strike, it is the most applicable method of self defense. We are also conducting workshops in schools to make students, mostly girls aware to help defend themselves better in times of need”, Choudhury added. Though the sport is currently gaining popularity among the youths of the city but as alleged by Bhabajeet, the sport is yet to be accepted by many. Bhabajeet said that parents would rather send their child for dance lessons rather than sending one to a gym. “When it comes to any other sport, people look forward to Olympics and when it comes to cricket, the focus is on making it to the Indian team, thus turning a blind eye to one’s actual talent”, Bhabajeet said. With his set of goals in the future Bhabajeet eyes for the 1st position in the SFL World Ranking alongside of providing a platform for the aspiring MMA fighters of the city. With the formation of Assam Mixed Martial Arts Association, Bhabajeet is looking forward to organizing a tournament by the end of the year.
Bidang MMA
RG Baruah Road, Sundarpur, Guwahati 05 Contact 84719 87539 bidangmma@gmail.com www.bidangmma-assam.com
16
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
Health
10 Signs of
Depression in Men Clinical depression—in women or men—can cause sadness and a loss of interest in once pleasurable activities. But depression can sometimes manifest in different ways in different people. While several men and women suffer from the disorder, the symptoms mostly remain unnoticed. The symptoms used to diagnose depression are the same regardless of gender, although the chief complaint can be different among men and women.
G PLUS feature
Here are 10 signs of depression in men.
1. Fatigue People who are depressed undergo a series of physical and emotional changes. They can experience fatigue, as well as psychomotor retardation, or a slowing down of physical movements, speech, and thought processes. According to psychologists men are more likely than women to report fatigue and other physical symptoms of depression as their chief complaints.
2. Sleeping too much or too little Sleep problems—such as insomnia, waking up very early in the morning, or excessive sleeping—are common depression symptoms. Some people sleep 12 hours a day and still feel exhausted or toss and turn and wake up every two hours. Like fatigue, sleep troubles are one of the main symptoms that depressed men may discuss with their doctor, experts say.
3. Stomachache or backache Health problems such as constipation or diarrhea, as well as headaches and back pain, are common in people who are depressed. But men often don’t realize that chronic pain and digestive disorders go hand in hand with depression. People who are depressed do genuinely feel bad physically.
4. Irritability Instead of seaming down, men who are depressed often show signs of irritability. If one talks about an emotional component, it could be sadness with irritability. In addition, negative thoughts are a common aspect of depression. Men will report feeling irritable because they are having negative thoughts constantly.
Depression fills one with negative thoughts, almost like an intrusion. You’re slowed down and constantly thinking about negative things in your world. As a result it makes it very difficult to focus on anything.
6.Anger or hostility Some men manifest depression by being hostile, angry, or aggressive. A man who realizes something is wrong may need to compensate by demonstrating that he is still strong or capable. Anger and hostility are different than irritability while anger tends to be a stronger emotion and irritability is a crankiness. Men become hostile when they have withdrawn as a result of their depression and feel under pressure by friends or family to rejoin society.
7. Stress Men might be more likely to report symptoms of depression as stress. It’s not that men have more stress; it’s that it’s more socially acceptable to report it. Depression can also travel a two-way street. It can be accurate to say that feeling stressed can be an indicator of having clinical depression but also be part of the cause. Research has shown that prolonged exposure to stress can lead to changes both in the body and brain, which can in turn lead to depression.
8. Anxiety Research has shown a strong link between anxiety disorders and depression. Men may be no more likely than women to experience anxiety—in fact, anxiety disorders are about twice as prevalent in women—but it’s often easier for men to talk about feeling anxious rather than sad. Men may discuss concerns about work and whether the loss of a job will impede their ability to provide for themselves and their family.
5. Difficulty concentrating
9. Substance abuse
Psychomotor retardation can slow down a man’s ability to process information, thereby impairing concentration on work or other tasks.
Substance abuse frequently accompanies depression. Research has shown that alcoholics are almost twice as likely to suffer from major
A
long with the symptoms we also bring you some easy solutions. If you are in scare after having realized showing similar symptoms, here are 10 natural depression treatments. Being depressed can make you feel helpless. You’re not. Along with therapy and sometimes medication, there’s a lot you can do on your own to fight back. Changing your behaviour -- your physical activity, lifestyle, and even your way of thinking -- are all natural depression treatments.
These tips can help you feel better -- starting right now. Get in a routine If you’re depressed, you need a routine. Depression can strip away the structure from your life. One day melts into the next. Setting a gentle daily schedule can help you get back on track.
Set goals When you’re depressed, you may feel like you can’t accomplish anything. That makes you feel worse about yourself. To push back, set daily goals for yourself. Start very small. Make your goal something that you can succeed at, like doing the dishes every other day. As you start to feel better, you can add more challenging daily goals.
Exercise & Eat healthy It temporarily boosts feel-good chemicals called endorphins. It may also have long-term benefits for people with depression. Regular exercise seems to encourage the brain to rewire itself in positive ways. Running marathons to get a benefit isn’t required. Just walking a few times a week can help. There is no magic diet that fixes depression. It’s a good idea to watch what you eat, though. If depression
tends to make you overeat, getting in control of your eating will help you feel better. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon and tuna) and folic acid (such as spinach and avocado) could help ease depression.
Get enough sleep Depression can make it hard to get enough shut-eye, and too little sleep can make depression worse. What can you do? Start by making some changes to your lifestyle. Go to bed and get up at the same time every day. Try not to nap. Take all the distractions out of your bedroom -- no computer and no TV. In time, you may find your sleep improves.
Take on responsibilities When you’re depressed, you may want to pull back from life and give up your responsibilities at home and at work. Don’t. Staying involved and having daily responsibilities can work as a natural depression treatment. They ground you and give you a sense of accomplishment.
Challenge negative thoughts In your fight against depression, a lot of the work is mental -- changing how you think. When you’re depressed, you leap to the worst possible conclusions.
depression as people without a drinking problem. Depression can happen for both men and women, but using drugs or alcohol to mask uncomfortable feelings is a strategy many men will employ instead of seeking health care. There is a cultural bias of, ‘I should be able to fix this myself and so I’ll use what chemicals I have available to me to do that’.
10. Suicidal thoughts Women are more likely to at-
The next time you’re feeling terrible about yourself, use logic as a natural depression treatment. You might feel like no one likes you, but is there real evidence for that? You might feel like the most worthless person on the planet, but is that really likely? It takes practice, but in time you can beat back those negative thoughts before they get out of control.
Do something new - Try to have fun When you’re depressed, you’re in a rut. Push yourself to do something different. Go to a museum. Pick up a used book and read it on a park bench. Volunteer at a soup kitchen. Take a language class. When we challenge ourselves to do something different, there are chemical changes in the brain. Trying something new alters the levels of [the brain chemical] dopamine, which is associated with pleasure, enjoyment, and learning. Make time for things you enjoy. What if nothing seems fun anymore? That’s just a symptom of depression. You have to keep trying anyway. As strange as it might sound, you have to work at having fun. Plan things you used to enjoy, even if they feel like a chore. Keep going to the movies. Keep going out with friends for dinner.
tempt suicide, but men are more than four times as likely to die if they do attempt suicide. One reason is that men tend to choose more lethal methods. Men more often use firearms and kill themselves the first time they try. Older men are at highest risk for suicide, and doctors may miss depression symptoms in this group. In fact, more than 70 per cent of older suicide victims saw their primary care physician within the month of their death. Depression is not a normal part of aging in men or women.
17
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
MESSIAH IN DISGUISE Girls in blue ribbons and babies in soft diapers – these are some of my favourite things”. It was almost two years and a half since we have been trying for a baby. I was keen on having one straight after my marriage but hubby dear was of the opinion that we need some time to ourselves. I of course thought that the difference in age between the child and the parents should be such that they are more like friends rather than having the conventional relationship. However, that was not to be with me. So, I started where I had left off with my career before I was married. In the meantime, I had completed a full-length tele-serial in Assamese, a documentary in Hindi, and scores of smaller assignments. I always as a kid, had a fetish for acting or rather creating a niche in the media world. Back in school, I was always selected to enact some role or the other in the school annual day functions, which I enjoyed like anything. I remember Sister Rita from school, who would search and chase me down to join in the elocution competitions. It was a lot of fun, though I remember I would be shaking like a leaf when on stage. Now, looking back at those days, I laugh at myself for suffering from such bouts of stage fright. School concerts were great too. Being from a convent, we were taught the proper intonations and modulations before we finally went onto the stage. Once, when I had to do the role of Fuji Yama, a character from the play, Cherry Blossom, I forgot my dialogues at the eleventh hour. Sister Rita was so sour with me that I was only a little short of being spanked. All said and done, I enjoyed each and every annual concert. The smell of powder, rouge and lipstick; the subdued voices and soft patter of feet as we got ready backstage, the touch of our satin and net frocks against our delicate fingers. And our little hearts pounding so hard that we were scared lest the microphones caught the beat. Everything was magical. We were like cute princesses on stage, making our parents look on proudly as their daughters made each calculated move, step by step to make the concert a great success, year after year. College was great as I flew past with the Best Actress Award as a French gentleman. My career in acting, compering, and anchoring major shows took off with a lot of support from the home front. The yearning to get onto the stage once again made me take on important roles in plays, one after the other. It was one big mad rush to get to the top. In the course of this ongoing commitment to acting, anchoring et al, I still felt the terrible urge to become a mother. Both hubby and I ran from pillar to post, doing all sorts of tests on me as well as him. If someone told us that one doctor was
Life
Why Should I Become a Vegetarian?
W
good, there was someone to tell us that there was someone even better. “It’s been seven years that they have been childless, now they have one because of Dr.X. You must consult him at once.” I got a little tired listening to all this jargon. Why I am saying it is because nothing was coming of use to us. We even tried some ‘famous’ god men in and around the city, thinking maybe the flowers and the holy water they gave us would work on us but to no avail. Frustration, depression, hatred, meanness was all getting the better of me. I wanted a baby and I wanted it bad. I even started having dreams at night of having my baby, cuddling it to my chest and putting it to sleep. I would be so happy in my dreams that I always woke up with tears on my pillow. I even spoke of adoption but then it has its constraints, hubby had told me. I kept quiet and finally accepted that if God wants that I should be childless, then that’s the way it will be. Some of my friends and aunts consoled me, telling me to be patient and have faith in God. I will have a baby one day. One afternoon, as usual, I was out window shopping but returned with a load of packets. I had to drag my feet to keep my balance. It was pretty warm too and I could feel a long trail of sweat trickling down my back. As I left the shopping arcade and made for my car, lost in thoughts, a man suddenly jumped in front of me and caught hold of my bags. I almost screamed and pulled back my hands. Before I took time to realize what was happening, I heard a loud guffaw and a friendly voice said, “Baidew, bhale ase (Sister, how are you?)”. I looked, squinting against the bright afternoon sun only to see the most unassuming face smiling back at me. It took me some time before I could recognize Nripen. He used to drive our office car and wash mine once in a while. In return, I would send small gifts like a saree to his wife or shirts for him. He would take them as if they were some sort of treasure. I was the only person who actually treated him like a human being. The rest of my colleagues would behave as if he was some sort of an animal, more
so because of his appearance – dry, unkempt hair and dry chapped skin to go with it, a disheveled pair of shirt and trousers and a toothless smile that made everyone avoid meeting his eyes, which of course had the sparkle of a clear mountain stream. Nripen would keep me posted about his wife’s condition. They were trying very hard for a baby but she was having some serious problems. I would listen to him at length and suggest some names of doctors he can take her to. More than anything else, I saw my problem in them. Incidentally, Nripen had to leave his job in our office and since then, I lost all contact with him. It was per chance that I met him again that afternoon. I was elated and also a wee bit embarrassed as he pulled at my heavy packets to drop them in my car. I am usually not used to anyone doing chores for me. I finally gave in to Nripen’s persistence. As we walked towards the car, he asked me how my hubby was keeping, if everything was fine in my work front and if my parents were well. Then he asked me, “Baidew, I remember you were trying for a baby. Have you had one yet?” I was shocked, taken aback and feeling dismal, all at the same time. “Not yet, Nripen. I am trying,” I replied, saddened at my own answer. He seemed apprehensive when he tried to convince me that his wife was being treated by some village quack and they were successful in having a baby. When he was finally sure that I was not one person to go down to the village for the medicines, he suggested something that absolutely floored me. “Baidew, why don’t you do one thing? Take my baby. Guess what, he looks just like you. Nobody will say that it is not your baby.” I was dumbstruck. Did I hear him correctly? Did he say he wanted to give me his baby? But why would he? It’s his child. Thank you Nripen. But I cannot take your baby. Your wife and you have had it after so much of patience and prayers. You are indeed my messiah in disguise. So, I will need all your prayers and blessings for me to become a mother.
tinat ATIFA MASOOD
elcome to the Vegetarian World! Vegans are frequently misunderstood as unconventional eaters with an unnatural passion for Earth’s natural resources and are ethically opposed to eating them. While many vegans do feel passionately about animals, it’s time for others to see how a vegetarian or vegan diet and lifestyle, go way beyond animal rights. Following a healthy, balanced vegan diet ensures a host of health benefits as well as prevention of some of the major diseases striking people in the modern era. So if you’ve been toying with the idea of going vegetarian, then let the following lists inform and inspire!
etarian’s immune system is more effective in killing tumor cells than meat eaters.
Nutritionists’ Favorite!
Perfect Abs and a Glowing You – Inside Out!
Majority of nutritional benefits come from a vegetarian diet full of foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, milk and milk products, and soy products. A balanced vegetarian meal consisting of healthy fats (unsaturated fats), carbohydrates, high fiber, essential vitamins, and minerals like magnesium, phosphorus and calcium can add immense nutritive value to your diet. The quality and quantity of all essential nutrients is much better as compared to processed meat and chemically treated.
Healthy Heart – Happy Heart!
Vegetarian diets are naturally lower in saturated fat and cholesterol, and higher in plant nutrients than most meat-based diets. Vegetarians have been shown to have a 24% lower risk of dying of heart disease than non-vegetarians. There are numerous researches available that shown high consumption of red meat may increase the risk of heart disease by 50% amongst diabetics. A low-fat vegetarian diet is the single most effective way to stop the progression of coronary artery disease or prevent it entirely. Cardiac patients moving on to a vegetarian diet have also found to reverse the critical coronary heart conditions in various researches.
Cancer Alert!
Vegetarians are about 40% less likely to develop cancer than meat eaters are. In every bite, a typical beef-pork hotdog contains seven cancer-causing pesticides, and a quarter pound burger contains three cancer-causing substances. The primary source of nuclear radiation contamination in humans is from beef and dairy products. Various researches have linked meat consumption to breast, colon, prostate, pancreatic, and gastric cancers as well. Studies done at the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg suggest that a veg-
Live Strong! Live Long!
Switch on to a healthy and rich vegetarian diet today to add another 6-13 years to your life span! People who consume meat and meat products have a shorter life span as they are more prone to illnesses and toxins. They also tend to have more disability at the end of their lives. Meat foods rich in saturated fats clog your arteries, lower your energy and slow down your immune system. Meat eaters also experience accelerated cognitive and sexual dysfunction at a younger age.
The meat and weight relationship goes beyond the calorie math. A study from Imperial College, London found that those who ate about 250 grams of red meat, poultry, or processed meat in a day gained more weight over five years than those who ate less meat, even if they consumed the same amount of calories overall. It is also a known fact that the BMI of non-vegetarians is higher than that of vegetarians because of the high fiber and less saturated fat content of vegetarian foods. As a vegetarian, you tend to eat a lot more fruits, vegetables and whole grains that are packed with antioxidants. This helps neutralize the free radicals that cause spots and wrinkles. This can literally create a healthy glow, since antioxidants improve circulation and alter skin pigmentation.
Go Green! Spare the Fauna!
Ten billion animals are slaughtered for human consumption each year. Unlike the old times, today most animals are factory farmed, crammed into cages where they can barely move and fed a diet tainted with pesticides and antibiotics. Eating a plant-based meal for lunch instead of meat saves 2.5 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions, 133 gallons of water, and 24 sq. ft. of land, according to research reports. Therefore, in three meals, you will have saved more water than you will save by switching to a low-flow shower-head. A vegetarian lifestyle awakens our spirit of compassion and guides us towards a kinder, gentler society in which we exercise a moral choice to protect animals—not exploit them.
His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji
www.artofliving.org/yoga Follow Sri Sri @SriSriSpeaks on twitter
18
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
Entertainment
Prachi Desai
takes off to London
Why did Shahid get inked?
Taapsee Pannu
is all set to become a
wedding planner!
P
rachi Desai has taken off to London for a vacation before she begins shooting for Mohammad Azharuddin’s biopic starring Emraan Hashmi. Prachi Desai plays the role of the cricketer’s first wife Naureen in the film. As London is Prachi’s favourite city, she decided to spend some days there accompanied by her sister. Prachi will also be seen in ‘Rock on 2’ - the sequel to her 2008 debut film.
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f sources are to be believed then Shahid Kapoor plays a rockstar in the first half of Udta Punjab so earlier the actor was hiding his blue extensions which he got done for the first half. Later the actor himself had put the picture on a social networking website. Now we hear that the actor has short hair in the second half of the
film and apparently has got tattoos all over his body. A source close to the actor said, “Shahid Kapoor got his body covered with tatoo’s in the second half of the film. Shahid was seen recently getting a new hair do and getting temporary tatoo’s’ made for the film. The actor has just finished the shooting of Udta Punjab and come to Mumbai.”
Emraan and Vidya battled sandstrom for ‘Hamari Adhuri Kahaani’
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irector Mohit Suri wanted to capture a sandstorm shot for his forthcoming film “Hamari Adhuri Kahani” and use it as a metaphor for the impending problems brewing between the romance of Emraan Hashmi and Vidya Balan’s characters in the film. According to a source, “Suri, who was shooting in the UAE, had a very small window to shoot this sequence before the sandstorm lashed on. However, on the given day the calculations went all haywire as the weather became ex-
Sarah Jane packs her bags for Cannes
treme and Mohit was advised not to shoot”. But the actors were more than willing to extend their help. “Emraan and Vidya stepped up and told the director that they don’t mind trying to get the shot before the sandstorm trapped them. And when Mohit said ‘Action’, the scene was taken in just one shot,” the source added. The film also features Rajkummar Rao in a pivotal role. Presented by Fox Star Studios and produced by Vishesh Films, “Hamari Adhuri Kahani” releases on June 12.
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aapsee Pannu is starting a wedding planning company with her sister Shagun and a close pal,
Farah. The trio plan to branch out into event management as well. Tapsee is a software engineer who got into modelling and acting. Now she wants to combine it with some entrepreneurial zeal as well.
Salman Khan thanks fans for being with him
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ctress-singer Sarah Jane Dias is charged up for her outing at the ongoing 68th Cannes International Film Festival with the team of her upcoming film “Zubaan”. She says she will make the most of her trip by having lots of fun. “It’s my first time at Cannes and I’ll be there with my bells on! Team ‘Zubaan’ and I are eager to shoot at Cannes exclusively. I’m looking forward to the fun times there,” Sarah Jane said in a statement.
n his first public appearance after Bombay High court suspended his sentence, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan thanked his fans who stood by him in his trying times, saying “I owe them a lot”. “I owe them a lot. I respect them and I appreciate what they did for me... all those prayers, fasts, etc. I don’t know if I deserve all that, but I have got them and I accept that and I will try to increase my levels,” Salman told reporters. The actor, however, avoided talking about his case and the legal proceedings. “My problems are too small to talk about. We are here to talk about tourism here and let’s focus on that,” he said. Salman is currently shooting for his film ‘Bajran-
gi Baijan’ directed by Kabir Khan who has also directed the actor in ‘Kick’. He said all those fans who prayed for him should pray for themselves. “Now they should pray for themselves apart from me,” the actor said.
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
19
Hang Out
Amendments in Trade License Renewal Charges made in GMC Changes in waste disposal fee structure
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he General Council of the Guwahati Municipal Corporation held meeting with Trade Association and approved to amend the Fourth Schedule (Letter no GCS/JC/54/2015/15) regarding the renewal charges of the GMC trade license. According to this new amendment, the companies or the organizations with a capital of `20 lakhs or above which were earlier paying `7500 for renewing their trade licenses, from now onwards will have to pay `1850 to renew their trade licenses. Whereas, the companies or organizations with a capital of `10 lakhs or above which were earlier paying `1500 to renew their trade licenses , from now onwards will have to pay `1750. The organizations which were paying `1250 renewal charge from now onwards they will have to pay `1850. Under the new amendment, the small organizations which were earlier paying `600 will have to pay `700, the ones paying `300 will have to pay `350, the ones paying `150 will have to pay `180 and the organizations which were earlier paying `100 will have to pay `115 for renewing their trade licenses. This new amendment is bringing a whole new change in the procedure to renew the trade licenses. Very soon, GMC will provide an online registration site to renew the trade licenses and the preliminary works regarding this whole process has already been started. Lately after a press meet organized by the All Guwahati Traders’ Association, several daily newspapers published the news that there is a syndicate in the name of renewal of trade licenses. GMC has denied to this allegation and according to them, only the new fee structure for the renewal of the trade license was proposed to the associations by
the GMC. Recently in a meeting at GMC, the representatives of Assam Chamber of Commerce on, behalf of fifteen Traders Associations of Guwahati made some proposals to the GMC to which they have promised to look into soon. Meanwhile, GMC has also taken some initiative for waste disposal fee system. As per the discussions between the All Guwahati Traders’ Association, Hotel Association of Guwahati (Non star) and GMC, the Commissioner of Guwahati Municipal Corporation has issued a new order (Order no GCS/JC/54/2015/14) regarding the waste disposal fee system. According to the new order, only the traders who avail the facility of door to door collection of NGOs appointed by GMC will be required to pay user charges. Traders who don’t avail the services of the NGOs need not pay the user charges, but such traders will have to dispose off their waste materials in the dustbins between 5pm to 8 am. In the discussion held with the trade association, it was decided that there will be no need for a businessman to submit proof and assessment of property tax at commercial rate for trade license. All the field level officials have been instructed accordingly. If anybody faces any problem regarding issue of trade license and assessment of property tax they may contact following officers
Dr. Anant Gyani, IAS,
Zonal Commissioner, Zone I, Phone No - 9435002981 (for Central, West & Lakhora Zone)
Dr. S. Laxman, IAS,
Zonal Commissioner, Zone II, Phone No - 94351-37819 (for Dispur, East & South Zone)
“State to play the role of true facilitator for SAF Games.” CM
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ith the state government completing four years of its third consecutive term in office, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has credited the people of Assam, particularly the young generation for this feat. In a tweet, Gogoi stated that since 2001, the state has steered out of uncertainty, sluggish growth and economic turmoil to peace, progress and prosper-
ity. He further attributed the state’s stability to the unstinted support and cooperation of the people of the state. In yet another tweet, Gogoi stated that the state government would extend all facilities to the centre for holding the SAF Games in Assam. He also stated that the state government would play the role of a facilitator for the success of the SAF Games.
REBOTI Pocket Friendly Bites Priyanka Jain
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tarting a restaurant, be it a small one or a big one, is just like starting any other type of business, you need a thorough plan. So the G plus team decided to visit one of the oldest food station in Guwahati and document its success story. “Hard work brings success’’ said the owner of “Reboti”, Nayanchandran Borah, while talking to G Plus. Established on 4th September 1987, almost 28 years ago, this restaurant cum small food station near Hotel Prag Continental, Pan Bazaar Guwahati is small spaced but yet serves amazing food. This food station is much renowned for its two specialty dishes i.e. “Chowmein” and “Rolls”. Both vegetarian and non vegetarian is served, along with a variety of chowmein and rolls.
Nayanchandran said, “The first five years were really difficult, the income was very low. We did not even earn `.100. When I started Reboti, I was the only person who handled eve-
“I am a regular customer who visits Reboti at least thrice a week. It’s not a happening place, but yes it’s a place with good food.”
rything, but now I have 16 workers under me who work and help manage the place. My daily income now is around `1000 to `1500. The price of chowmein starts from `30 to `90 and for rolls its `20 to `50. The timings are from 10.30 am to 08.30 pm and the eatery is open on all the days. In a day, around 100 to 150 customers come to eat and appreciate us. Out of these, some are regular happy customers who not only come but also put in a good word about Reboti to friends and relatives. We do not have the latest fad in decor but anyone who come for good food will find this place worthwhile.” When the G Plus talked to customers there, one Kritanjali Goswami said, “Service is extremely good. All you have to do is sit and order and your food is served within a minute.” Another respondent, Lehar replied “I am a regular customer who visits Reboti at least thrice a week. It’s not a happening place, but yes it’s a place with good food. My exams are over now and I am going to come here every weekend. And yes Reboti is “Pocket Friendly’’. You can eat and save your money too. You should not go for a place by its ambience or looks rather one should go for its good taste.” Aakansha, a first time happy customer said “It’s really a hygienic place to be in, where one stomach gets filled with an amazing delicacies. I will even advice my friends and relatives to come and try its food.”
Ritto Timings 10.30 am to 8.30 pm (all days) Specialty: Rolls and Chowmein Address: Near Hotel Prag Continental
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G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
Reviews
GAVME IEW RE
YouULD O N SH ISTE L
Album: Numun Artist: Johanna Warren
Motorcycle club
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Movi Revi e ew
Cast: R Madhavan, Kangna Ranaut, Jimmy Sheirgill, Eijaz Khan, Swara Bhaskar
Director: Aanand. L. Rai
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fter an entertaining Tanu Weds Manu, the second installment Tanu Weds Manu Returns starring R. Madhavan and Kangana Ranaut is all set to release this week. The film’s music has been composed by mixed artists which includes Tanishk & Vayu, Krsna Solo. While the prequel had some popular chartbusters, find out if the new film too manages to do the same. There is always that one song in the soundtrack of a film which becomes an instant hit and especially after being included in the trailer. Banno is that number for Tanu Weds Manu Returns. The energetic number sung by Brijesh Shandllya, Swati Sharma is so peppy that you cannot stop yourself from moving with it. The lyrics too are quirky with ‘Swagger’ and ‘Sexy’ being associated with ‘Banno‘ which means a bride making it even more interesting. Just like Queen‘s London Thumakda caught on with the masses, Banno too will do the same. A perfect song for the wedding season this year. Ankit Tiwari has become the voice of sad songs. His new song Mat Ja Re is quite a typical song. Even though the composition is quite different compared to Tiwari’s usual choices, it does not really entertain you. Mat Ja Re is not a number that you would like to listen to more than once or twice. The plus point for Ghani Bawri is that the song has a lively music and a strong lead voice. Jyoti Noora’s vocals give this song the right amount of brightness. Lyri-
cally too, the song is rich as it does form as a summary to the story and it will be interesting to watch it in the film. The song will not enjoy much longevity but as long as the film is in the limelight, it will be a popular number. Ghani Bawri also has a remix number which is a little mix of techno beats with the original. Sadly, the techno kills the original score as it lacks the rustic flavor of the song. The first installment of Tanu Weds Manu had a beautiful composition called ‘Yun Hi’ by Mohit Chauhan and in this film they try to create a similar song as ‘Hogaya Hai Pyaar‘. Dev Negi sings it with great finesse. It is soulful but reminiscent of the earlier one. Sonu Nigam returns after long as he sings ‘O Saathi Mere‘ in the film. The song is a a slow number and it is a treat to listen to Nigam who makes it sound even more beautiful. The musical arrangements are similar to ‘Chaandaniya‘ of Rowdy Rathore but both the songs have their own flavor. It does come off as heartfelt but certainly is not the best song from the album. Tanu Weds Manu Returns album is not a perfect one but has its highs and lows. The best songs from the album are ‘Banno‘, ‘Ghani Bawri‘ and ‘Hogaya Hai Pyaar‘. Composed by Tanishk & Vayu, Krsna Solo, the album is high on the ‘Desi’ quotient and partly enjoyable. The album could have been kept short with a handful of tracks, minus the remixes. I am going with a 3/5 for this album.
otorcycle Club is a racing game on two wheels with a few twists. The most notable addition is the ability to switch between three different bikes on the fly. You’ll have access to a superbike, roadster, and custom all at once for each race, and tapping L1 or R1 will allow you to hop between saddles depending on the situation. Unfortunately, while an interesting idea, this is where the PlayStation 4 release finds its first flat tire. In theory, the sports bikes should be best in straightaways, the roadsters in winding bits, and the custom bikes in off-road sections – but it’s often fastest to just stick with the superbikes and blitz through areas where it doesn’t even belong. Even the AI seems to realise this. To make matters worse, the ingame tutorial mislabels which rides should be used in which sections of the track; at least the areas are correctly colour coded to avoid total confusion. Still, you’ll never use the roadsters, and the custom bikes only ever excel in particularly long, unavoidable off-road stretches. The campaign consists of various categories, filled with a large
number of races. As long as you ignore the aforementioned switching mechanics, then the difficulty is on the lower side. Other riders will often slam into you, hurting your times – but it’s still easy to lap almost everyone during a standard sprint. Some of the challenges do require near perfect runs to unlock motorcycles, but these difficulty spikes are rare. And when you consider the unbearable audio, those six or so minutes will feel like a lifetime. The scream of a 599cc in-line four motorcycle is arguable one of the greatest sounds that a machine can make, however this game manages to make every bike sound like a dying mosquito regardless of engine configuration. To make matters worse, music is almost non-existent, so be prepared to hit the mute button often. Motorcycle Club feels unfinished. The repetitive races, dreary challenges, horrendous sound, and unbalanced motorbike classes ruin what could have been a promising game. Unless you’re utterly desperate for a two-wheeled arcade racer, then you’d be wise to ride as far away from this release as possible.
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wo years after releasing her solo debut, the atmospheric and gentle Fates, Johanna Warren sharpens her still low-key and haunting sound for the more present-feeling (and tad less folky) indie folk on Numun. Dedicated to the moon and nature’s cycles, the album is often about time and moving through moments, with lyrics that are introspective more than about heavenly bodies, and, more generally, spiritual. Musically, Warren is known for her use of elements like complex time signatures and nonstandard chord progressions within ethereal, acoustic settings, and that’s all in play on here, as on the polyrhythmic “True Colors” and in the floating, arpeggiated chord modulations of “The Wheel”. A song like “Less Traveled” breaks through the somewhat eerie tone of the record with a lively melody supported by playful flutes and acoustic guitar. Warren has talked in interviews about the healing nature of music, both on the songwriting end and the listening end; some listeners will likely connect on that level with Numun and, amid its airiness, its substance.
Book: Journey from Guwahati to Machhiwara SH You Author: Rajiv Bakshi REVIEW BY PARUL THAKUR ReOaULD he book is written in a simple years and that is why I feel rating the d
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language and narrated well. The stories took me on a trip down the memory lane when the author mentioned Nokia mobile handset 3310, the Tulsi-Mihir stories, the Govinda songs and many more such little things. I am going to deviate a bit and as a reader I am sure you will understand. This book is sort of dream project. A book which is a potpourri of memorable life experiences of 35
NOW SHOWING
book will not be a just thing to do. It’s a 5/5 to say that there is no age limit to fulfill dreams and in my mind that is more important that a rating. The book is a simple weekend read and a quick one. Most of the stories will make you smile and if you are my age, these stories will take you back to the time you were growing up. The simple life of those days and some heart warming times with parents.
Bombay Velvet
Mad Max: Fury Road
Gabbar Is Back
Piku
Apsara Cinema
Daily at 11.00 AM & 5.00 PM
Daily at 2.00 & 8 PM
Anuradha Cineplex
Daily at 11.45 AM & 5.15 PM
Daily at 9.30 AM & 2.45 PM
Fun Cinemas
Daily at 10.00 AM, 3.15 & 8.45 PM
Gold Cinema (Paltan Bazaar)
Daily at 11.00, 2.00, 5.00 & 8.00 PM
Daily at 11.30 AM & 2.30 PM
Daily at 5.30 & 8.30 PM
Gold Cinema (Fancy Bazar)
Daily at 11.00, 2.00, 2.30, 5.00 & 8.00 PM
Daily at 8.30 PM
Daily at 11.30 AM & 2.30 PM
Gold Cinema (Narengi)
Daily at 11.00 AM, 5.00 & 8.00 PM
Daily at 8.15 PM Daily at 12.50 & 6.05 PM
Daily at 2.00 PM
Telebooking numbers: Anuradha Cineplex; 03612656968, 9954544738, Fun Cinemas: 9864800100, 9864800200, Gold Cinema (Fancy Bazaar): 03612735367, 9854077177, Gold Cinema (Paltan Bazaar): 9854066166, Gold Cinema (Narengi): 8811001898
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
Games on Facebook Messenger Hitech Mobiles launches new very soon phone in Assam
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ocial networking giant Facebook is planning an idea of including games in its Messenger chat platform. According to the Information, facebook users may soon be able to play games while chatting on Facebook Messenger. Facebook as a social networking website offers quite a number of games that is played via web as well as mobile platforms. These games include Candy Crush Saga, Farmville etc and these games are having considerable fan following among people of all age brackets. Candy Crush Saga and Farmville requests that people send to their friends are also the subject of sharp criticism among people who don’t play these
games so often. Facebook Messenger chat platform has seen mixed response from users. While it’s optional to use on the web, mobile users ‘must’ install the service in order to chat with others. Facebook has been taking many plans to tempt people into using its Messenger service. Time to time messenger comes out with emojis to make chat fun and engaging. Addition of games to the platform would be another such attempt to engage the users. Although there is no clear information about the time frame around which games would be coming to Messenger, it is certain that discussions are on internally.
iBall Slide i701, Windows 8.1 tab launched
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7-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels Windows 8.1 (upgradeable to Windows 10) 1.3 GHz quad-core Intel Atom processor, 1GB RAM 16GB internal storage, expandable by 32GB 2-megapixel rear camera and VGA front camera 3G via dongle, Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, micro HDMI and microUSB for connectivity 3,200 mAh battery It also comes with an year’s subscription of Office 365 which itself costs `3,299. It is already on sale from May 21st in the country through e-commerce portals and retail chains. iBall has brought the new Windows tablet at a price point which makes it accessible to a wide range of people. And the impressive retail bundle just makes the deal sweeter. Let us wait and watch if the tablet can actually perform well in real-life conditions.
Google Maps abused again, searching the N-word produces White House
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ast month a small patch of terrain in Google Maps just south of the Pakistani city of Rawalpindi has been found to contain a bizarre image of the Android robot urinating on the Apple logo.
Android Kitkat 4.4 OS. The phone comes with a 4 inches screen with IPS display which gives an excellent visual display. The phone has a combination of 1.2 GHz quadcore processor and 4 GB ROM space capacities. It has features like dual sim, 5MP rear camera along with pre loaded apps.
screen size. The Slide i701 comes with a 7-inch IPS display and is powered by a 1.33GHz quad-core Intel processor. There’s 1GB of RAM, 16GB of expandable storage, 2MP rear camera and a VGA front camera. The retail package brings with it a free HDMI cable worth `699 and three inter-changeable protective covers worth `599. Let us quickly take a look at the specifications of the tablet.
iBall Slide i701 Specifications
Tech Watch
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itech Mobiles launched Hitech Amaze S3 in Assam on 20th May 2015. The new phone is considered as India’s most stylish and affordable quadcore phone in the market. Hitech Mobiles Managing Director Mohammed Gyasuddin said, “We are proud to launch India’s most affordable quadcore phone Hitech Amaze S3 in Guwahati which is a very important market for us. We have a vision of making mobiles suitable and affordable for every age group as well as income group in India. We truly believe that Amaze S3 will get very good response in Assam.” Amaze S3 is a smartphone which has been designed keeping in mind the changing trends of fashion in the world of mobile phones. Amaze S3 with superfast 1.2 GHz quadcore processor is enabled with superfast 3G connectivity along with 1500 mAH battery. The phone is updated with
Microsoft developing an iPhone chat app called Flow
Ball has just launched the Windows 8.1 based Slide i701 tablet in India at a price of just `4,999. iBall has surprised every one by launching the Windows 8.1 based tablet at such a low price. The iBall Slide i701 has further gone ahead and become the cheapest Windows 8.1 tablet globally. This move comes after Microsoft made the licensing free for tablets with less than 8-inches of
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icrosoft is reportedly developing a new smartphone chat app, set to debut on iPhone, that works as an accompaniment for its Outlook inbox app. According to details discovered on a publicly accessible site, the new app — called Flow — is designed to offer “fast, fluid, natural conversations,” with “no subject lines, salutations, or signatures,” and will apparently allow for quick communication with email contacts outside of your regular email inbox. The details were unearthed by Twitter user h0x0d, who found a de-
scription of the app on a download page marked “Microsoft Confidential.” Flow’s existence has yet to be confirmed by the company, but the details seem plausible — as ZDNet points out, Flow would be to Outlook as Qik is to Skype. Microsoft launched Skype Qik last year as a lightweight video-messaging service that was simpler and quicker to use than vanilla Skype. Flow, too, sounds like it would be faster to use than regular Outlook email, and would give Microsoft an entry point into the increasingly crowded chat app market.
The image seems to have been user generated through the Map Maker function, which allows users to contribute local knowledge to Google Maps. In this case, that meant the suspiciously shaped pattern of grass appeared in Maps without Google realizing the meaning behind it. “We’re sorry for this inappropriate usercreated content,” Google said in a statement to The Washington Post. “We’re working to remove it quickly.” After this embarrassing oversights Google has shut down its Map Maker service. The company said it had been moderating all user-generated edits to try to prevent such pranks, but found it impossible to keep up. But it seems that even after Google removed the map marker service, someone still managed to play yet another prank on Google maps and this time they abused the Add Place feature. Someone has added ‘ N****s House ‘ in White House of United states. Whenever an user types ‘N****s House’ in the google maps search box it shows White House. At the time of writing it was still surprisingly live. Indrajeet Bhuyan is a 17 year old tech blogger and security researcher. He is passionate about computers and believes in sharing knowledge and information . He uses his spare time helping people and companies secure themselves. fb.me/ indrajeet.bhuyan
22
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
Fun
TIMEPASS
Your weekly dose of You’ll need to navigate through what could be a tricky week. Mercury’s retrograde phase from Monday could cause delays, which means your best-laid plans could come to nothing. Rather than fret and fume, use this opportunity to research your options and get more information. Avoid manipulative and pushy people on Thursday and Friday, particularly any who may have an axe to grind. Stick with upbeat, generous folks for positive experiences and a happy social life.
Money matters could be subject to delays. You may have to roll with the punches, particularly if unexpected expenses show up or a payment doesn’t materialize. Even so, this might set you thinking about ways to improve matters and get your money working harder for you. On Thursday a rather intense influence might mean you see a side of someone you’ve never noticed before, which could be somewhat disconcerting. Even so, being in the right company can help you relax and recharge.
The relationship planets are mainly feisty but fun, encouraging you to relax in good company. But Saturn’s presence in your pleasure and romance sector suggests a tendency to conserve your time and energy. This is just as well, as Mercury enters its retrograde phase on Monday, which could coincide with a lull in your social life. You’ll still have fun, but you’ll also have more time to relax and recharge. Don’t let someone’s edgy mood affect your enjoyment of a fun event on Friday.
Sagittarius Cultivating a taste for the novel or exotic in people and ideas can open you up to wonderful new experiences. Explore opportunities that can help further your interests and expand your horizons. Mercury turns retrograde on Monday, for about three weeks, leading to delays and mixed messages. Think twice before signing important documents, particularly if there’s a lot of money at stake. This phase can also bring fresh perspectives to ongoing problems, encouraging ingenious solutions.
SUDOKU
Restlessness and a desire to flee the real world may be stirring within you. Yet, because of Mercury’s retrograde phase starting Monday, quick decisions could likely cause trouble. If in doubt, a chat with a good friend can help you make the best choice. Some people may seem more aloof or distant than usual. Try not to take this personally, as it could be a different matter in a few days. Later, purchasing a few small luxuries might help boost your mood.
News may arrive out of the blue involving a friend or relative who needs your help and support. A focus on your spiritual sector suggests you may be called upon to sacrifice time and energy in order to boost another’s spirits. There could be further obstacles to overcome on Thursday and Friday this week. A patient approach can help you avoid strain and struggle. By the weekend you’ll be ready to kick back with good friends and indulge a little!
Scorpio
Libra
Virgo
Leo
Cancer
Gemini
Taurus
Aries
HOROSCOPE
Regarding goals and personal ambitions, Mercury’s retrograde phase, along with other stubborn influences, suggests progress could come to a halt. However, this can bring just the chance you need to rethink your plans. Such delays can expose weaknesses that might not otherwise show up. Regarding romance, someone with a jealous streak could try to jeopardize a new relationship. Don’t allow it! Turbulent influences could keep you on your toes, so it’s important to take time out to relax.
If you can iron out a family disagreement or handle a difference of opinion, then the week ahead has much to offer. There may be one or two issues to circumnavigate, and these are likely to involve other people’s stubborn mindset. There will be more than enough to keep you happily occupied once the Sun dances into Gemini on Thursday. In addition, Jupiter’s ongoing presence in your social sector adds a special sparkle to a sizzling date.
Don’t let anyone rush you into making a decision or commitment before you’re ready. As Mercury turns retrograde it’s essential to read the fine print of a contract or legal document before you sign. Someone may be feeling extra sensitive, making you feel like you’re walking on eggshells. In this situation it pays to be honest rather than tolerate someone’s manipulative tendencies. Romance can flourish when an opportunity for a special date enhances your natural passion.
Pisces
Aquarius
Capricorn With wit, charm, and a cheerful outlook you somehow manage to say the most difficult things and get away with it. With Venus happily ensconced in your relationship sector, it’s a good time to convince someone that you’re the right candidate for a job or new relationship. However, it might not be all clear sailing this week, as someone’s stubborn outlook could put things on hold. All will be well if you refuse to take it personally and instead go with the flow.
A surprise may be in store this week and it could be due to Mercury’s retrograde influence. There’s a chance you’ll bump into someone you once knew or hear from an old college or work pal. It might also be wise to check on those you haven’t seen in a while and offer support should they need it. Romantic opportunities seem plentiful, but you may prefer to explore subjects of interest or perhaps get involved in competitive sports to burn off excess energy.
Someone may share a secret that alters how you view a situation. In this instance it affects you in a good way. As Mercury turns retrograde from Monday, for about three weeks, expect disruptions and delays at home. A guest may cancel or a party may not proceed as planned. You might have to contend with obstacles, but a cheery, upbeat approach can help you breeze through the coming days. Later, a romantic liaison could grow in strength and passion.
Useful Life hacks
JUST FOR LAUGHs A man receives a phone call from his doctor. The doctor says, “I have some good news and some bad news.” The man says, “OK, give me the good news first.” The doctor says, “The good news is, you have 24 hours to live.” The man replies, “Oh no! If that’s the good news, then what’s the bad news?” The doctor says, “The bad news is, I forgot to call you yesterday.” Q: What starts with E, ends with E and only has one letter? A: An envelope.
Hold it
Use clips to hold your brushes on there places
Q: If you drop a white hat into the Red Sea, what does it become? A: Wet. Q: What is white when it’s dirty and black when it’s clean? A: A blackboard.
Solution (Last Issue)
G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
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TO-LET 2 BHK With 2 Bathroom , Parking, Balcony And Lift At G.S. Road Rent-12,000 Ph No.-98644-31944 3 BHK 2nd Floor Flat At Ghy Club, Rent18,000 Call-76630-59321 3 BHK Newly Constructed Flat At Jayanagar, Rent14,000 Call-83999-65686 3BHK Independent House At Jonali, 2Bathroom , Parking, & Kitchen, Rent10,000 Contact-76630-59321 3BHK 3Rd Floor Flat With Bathroom , Parking, Balcony And Lift Rent-12,000 Contact-83999-65686 3 BHK At Ganeshguri Rent-15,000 Call-7663059321 Any type of Rented House Available At Zoo Road, Chandmari Contect-98647-39316 2 BHK Flat With 2Bathroom, Parking & Balcony With Lift At Chandmari Rent-10,000 Ph No.- 83999-65686 Any type of Flat Available At Zoo Road, Chandmari Contect-98647-39316 Any type of Office Available At Zoo Road, Chandmari Contect-98647-39316 3BHK Flat At Second Floor With 2
2 / 4 WHEELER Discover 2014 Model For Sale, Colour : Black And Red Ph.- 98599-10119 Alto LXI 2011 Model Colour: Maroon Contact-88110-91965 Yamaha FZ – S Year of Manufacturing04/20111, Colour B. Green Contact-95778-21645
Bathroom , Balcony , Parking With 3 Wardrobe And Lift. Rent- 15,000 Ph No.98644-31944 3BHK Flat With 2 Bathroom, 3rd Floor , Parking, Balcony & Lift in Beltola Rent- 14,000 Pn No.-76630-59321 720sqft showroom with toilet in athgaon suitable for boutique/ computer classes etc. Contact- 98641-59713 5 Room Flat In Maskhowa For Rent. Contact-98641-59713 3BHK New Flat With 2 Bathroom , Parking , Balcony , Lift At Dispur, 2nd , 3rd , 4th Floor, Rent16,000 Call-9864431944 400 sqft Rcc godown available At opp.Nichols school, Chatribari. With Shutter and road facing facility. Ph.No.- 9864159713. 200 sqft Rcc shop inside market. Available and nearby godown. Suitable for any type of CNF work. Ph.No. - 9864159713. 3 room residential flat on third floor 1300 sqft in Krisna Nagar, Chatribari. Ph.Nos. - 9864159713.
FOR SALE 3 bigha land in Thakurbari Road , Rangapara with clearcut title & sale deed. Contact- Gopal Das Phone No088768-59216 For immediate sale. Brand New Flat at Kahilipara Road, 3BHK with car park and all modern ammeneties. 1560 sq.ft, 8th floor. Contact: 94351 15098
2 WHEELER / 4 WHEELER
Vento (D) Top Model 2011 Colour: White Ph-88110-91965
EMERGENCY NUMBERS Ambulance 102 Arya Hospital, Ulubari 2606888, 2606665 Downtown Hospital 9864101111, 9435012669 GLP Social Circle 2737373 GGUMTA (Mirza) 03623-227109 Marowari Yuva Manch 2542074, 2547251
BLOOD BANK
Arya Hospital, Ulubari 2606888, 2606665 Ganga Blood Bank 2454742, 2455029 Lion’s Club of Ghy Central 2546611 Marwari Yuva Manch 2546470, 2547251 Saharia’s Path Lab (24 hours) 2458594
Honda Activa 2004 Model Colour : Black Call- 88110-91965
Bajaj Pulsar 135 2010 Model Colour – M.BLK M. 98540-91738 Scorpio For Sale 2010 SLX Colour – Silver Ph.- 98599-10119 Pulsar 150 2009 Model, Colour: Black Contact- 88110-91965 Scorpio 2010 LX Colour: Black (D) Contact-98641-06333 Honda Dio 2013 Model, 2013 Model Colour: P.T. Yellow Contact-98640-21414 TVS Apache RTR 08 / 2011 Model Colour : Red 98544-01660 Scorpio Model: SLX 2004, Colour: Silver Contact- 88110-91965 Honda Activa 2012 Model, Colour- Blue Call-95773-69908 Wagon R For Sale 2009 Model Colour : Maroon Contact-98599-10119 Hundai i20 Sportz ABS CRBI Price – 5.20 Lacs Colour – Grey 88221-41557 Swift Dzire: 2010 Model, Colour: White (D), Ph- 98599-91965 Activa, Colour: Black 2012 Model Contact: 98641-06333 Mahindra Duro 2011 Model Colour : Maroon Contact: 88110-91965
Public Notice I, Neelakshi Bordoloi, have changed my name to Neelakshi Bordoloi Saikia by an affidavit before the Notary Public Kamrup (Metro) dated: 19-02-15
Citypedia
AMBULANCE
Splendor 2013 Model Colour Black Call- 98641-06333
Swift VSI 2012 Model Colour: Silver 4.50 Lacs Fixed Call:88221-41557
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HOSPITALS Arya Hospital, Ulubari (2606888, 2606665) B Baruah Cancer Institute (2472364/66) Brahmaputra Hospital Ltd (2451634/678) Chatribari Christian Hospital 0361-2600051, 9207044374 Downtown Hospital 2331003, 9864079366, 9435012669 Guwahati Medical College (2529457, 2529561) Guwahati Medical College Emergency (2263444) International Hospital 0361-7135005
Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Hospital (2541477, 2543998) Marwari Hospital & Research Centre 0361-2602738/39 Marwari Maternity Hospital 0361-2541202/01 Nemcare Hospital 0361-2528587, 2455906, 2457344 Pratiksha Hospital 0361-2337260, 2337183/84 Basistha Military Hospital (2304617/0351)
Railway Central Hospital Casuality (2671025) Redcross Hospital (2665114) Sri Sankardeva Netralaya 0361-2233444, 2228879, 2228921 TB Hospital (2540193) Wintrobe Hospital 0361-2519860, 98647-77986 IHR-Institute of Human Reproduction 0361-2482619,09864103333 GNRC Hospital 0361 2227702 GNRC Life First Ambulance 9401194011
24-HOUR PHARMACIES Arya Hospital, Ulubari (2606888, 2606665) DEAD BODY CARRYING VAN GLP Social Circle 2737373, 9435047046 Marowari Yuva Manch 2542074, 2547251 GGUMTA 98640-16740 ELECTRICITY SUPPLY Call Centre – 9678005171
OTHERS Fire Emergency 101 State Zoo 2201363 GMC Carcass Pickup 9435190720, 9864047222 LPG Emergency/Leakage 2385209, 2541118
RADIO TAXI SERVICES Prime Cabs 0361- 2222233 Green Cabs 0361-7151515 My Taxi 0361-2228888 Cherry Cabs 8876222288
Cinema Hall Anuradha Cineplex – 0361-2656968, 99545-44738 Fun Cinema (HUB)- 98648-00100, 98648-00200 Gold Cinema (Paltan Bazaar) – 98540-66166 Gold Cinema (Salasar) – 0361-2735367, 98540-77177 Gold Cinema (Narengi) – 88110-01898
police station SP, Kamrup District: Ph- 2540278 DGP Control Room: Ph- 2540242 SB Control Room: Ph-2261511 Police Control Room: Ph-2540138, 2540113 Azara PS: Ph2840287 Basista PS: Ph-2302158 Bharalumukh PS: Ph- 2540137, 2731199 Borjhar PS: Ph-2840351 Chandmari PS: Ph- 2660204 Chandrapur PS: Ph-2788237, 2785237 Dispur PS: Ph-2261510 Fancybazar PS: Ph- 2540285
Fatasil Ambari PS: Ph-2471412 Geetanagar PS: Ph-2417323 Hatigaon: Ph-2562383 Jalukbari PS: Ph-2570587 Jalukbari Out Post: Ph-2570522 Jorabat: Ph-2896853 Khanapara: Ph- 2281501 Khetri PS: Ph-2787699, 2787220 Latasil PS: Ph-2540136 Noonmati PS: Ph- 2550281 North Guwahati PS: Ph-2690255 Paltanbazar PS: Ph-2540126 Panbazar PS: Ph-2540106 Pragjyotishpur Ps: Ph-2785237 Women PS Panbazar: Ph-2524627
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G PLUS MAY 23 - MAY 29, 2015
Catching Up
Renault Kwid World Premiere in India
Chloe Goodman thinks rival Vicky Pattison needs to go to rehab ‘for anger issues’
V
icky Pattison’s rival Chloe Goodman reckons the former Geordie Shore star needs to go to rehab. The 21-year-old beauty has spoken out after it emerged Vicky was hospitalised following a night out clubbing in Marbella. Chloe said: “Vicky’s temper is horrendous. Even sober, she’ll sometimes lash out if she doesn’t get her way. And, obviously, drink makes things even worse.” The reality star added: “She could be terrifying. Her ex Ricci [Guarnaccio] came on the show and I remember her warning people off speaking to him. I didn’t take kindly to that so we argued lots. “Our rows got so fiery, I sometimes even worried that Vicky might confront me in the middle of the night.” The Big Brother star claims she’s worried that Vicky, 27, is sending out the wrong message to her young fans and thinks she should attend therapy before it’s too late.
I’m still alive: Jackie Chan on death hoax
I
nternational film star Jackie Chan, with roots in China, became a victim of an internet death hoax. But the martial arts expert has clarified he is very much alive. `I was shocked by two news reports when I got off the plane. First of all, don’t worry! I’m still alive. Second, don’t believe the scam on Weibo using my name about the Red Pockets,” Chan said. `This is my official Facebook page and I only have 1 official Weibo page. Love you all,` Chan, who attended the premiere of Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan’s movie `PK` in China last week, tweeted on Saturday. Chan is currently busy with the 68th Cannes International Film Festival. Chan and the Cannes Market have created $165,000 prize for the Chinese filmmakers taking part in the Cannes festival’s 3rd New Chinese Film Talents Forum, reports variety.com. The money comes from Chan’s Project A: Young Filmmaker Development Fund. The financial prize is specifically to be invested in the costs of the production of the winning director’s new pro-
ject. The forum is in its third year and this year is host to eight young directors. The eight get to pitch their projects at a session on Monday at the Olympia Cinema in Cannes. The winning project will be announced on Tuesday.
R
enault, one of Europe’s leading automobile manufacturers, revealed its all new global product ‘KWID’ in India
today. “With KWID, Renault continues to pursue its strategy of accessible mobility for all to step up its international growth. Using a new Renault-Nissan Alliance platform and following the trail blazed by the Duster, the KWID will enable Renault to continue its expansion and address the needs of customers who want a vehicle that is stylish, robust and easy to use” shared Carlos Ghosn, Chairman and CEO, Groupe Renault, about the new launch
by Renault. KWID is a new and unique offering in the compact car segment, a vehicle with a dynamic profile and SUV look tailored to its dimensions. KWID is an attractive and modern car, with a spacious, comfortable interior that meets the everyday needs of all the family. With KWID, Renault goes a step further with the launch of an attractive, innovative and affordable vehicle in the small car segment, selling at a price of between 3 and 4 lakhs in India. KWID will be launched in India in the second half of 2015.
Female Singer on Turkish Talent Show Shot in Head
M
utlu Kaya, 19, was in a critical condition after being shot in Diyarbakir province on May 17th. Diyarbakir is a conservative region in south-east Turkey and Kaya had reportedly received death threats for singing on the show, Sesi Cok Guzel. One person has reportedly been arrested in connection with the incident. The gunman was said to have been in the garden and fired through a window into the house. Sesi Cok Guzel is similar to shows such as Britain’s Got Talent. Kaya’s mentor is Sibel Can, one of Turkey’s best-known folk singers who had visited Kaya at the school canteen where she worked in March, in order to make sure she joined her team in the competition. However, the Posta newspaper reported on Sunday that Kaya had received death “I am afraid,” Kaya was quoted as telling threats after appearing on the show. the show’s production team.
Blades of bliss: No salon or parlour can replace the raw feel of a shave on roadside. Photo: Adib Zamali
PIC OF THE
WEEK
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