G Plus Vol 3 Issue 40 by G Plus

“NRC update is the top priority,” says CM

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VOLUME 03 | ISSUE 40 JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

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CITY DOC IN THE DOCKS

13 Popular city paediatracian Dr Prakritish Bora arrested on assault charges and his now untraceable phone holds the key to the mystery

Dynamic academic duo playing significant roles in grooming students

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Neha Bora

G PLUS APR 23 - APR 29, 2016

New Chic on the block

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G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Lead Story

Rahul Chanda

Is Assam missing out on the privileges of Aadhar?

Citizens receive messages from banks to submit their Aadhar number and keep their bank accounts updated People are confused about how to procure an Aadhar card Aadhar started in three districts in 2014 on a pilot basis Dispur sources clarify that Aadhar work will start only after NRC completion IOCL officials say Aadhar messages are to be ignored Aadhar in Assam to be done under NPR NPR is intended to assist in improving security by checking for illegal migration Aadhar to link individual identification with other services like bank accounts, LPG connections, etc. Aadhar is to India as the Social Security Number is to USA but Aadhar is just a proof of identification proof and not a proof of citizenship

Recently all LPG consumers - being customers of Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) - and also some bank customers in Guwahati received messages on their cell phones that they are required to link their gas connection with their Aadhar number and also bank accounts failing which their gas subsidies will not be credited in their bank accounts. The message created confusion among the customers as they had no idea of the action to take and, more importantly, how to get an Aadhar card. A customer talking to G Plus said that he received an SMS from

With city people receiving messages from banks and agencies like IOCL to link their accounts with their Aadhar number, what is the significance of Aadhar in Assam? IOCL stating that his subsidy transfer has been kept on hold as he has not submitted his Aadhar details with the LPG distributor. The customer called up IOCL to take the details, but according to him, IOCL was unable to provide the explanation. Similarly, a retired senior citizen sounded worried and said that every second day she receives messages from her bank to submit her Aadhar number and she is unaware of how to get one. So what is an Aadhar card? When can people start getting it in Assam? What are the benefits of Aadhar card and is it similar to NRC? Will the LPG subsidies get cancelled if Aadhar number is not submitted? Searching for answers to these questions G Plus talks to some stake holders and explores the situation.

LPG subsidy issue Talking to an IOCL official it came to light that the particular SMS needed to be ignored by consumers as Aadhar is yet to be started in Assam. Under conditions of anonymity the official added that IOCL has taken up the matter with the Union Ministry concerned for exempting the consumers of Assam and Meghalaya in this regard. The official also said that the issue was resolved as a second message was sent to the customers to ignore the earlier message which had said that Aadhar card has to be linked with

the LPG connections. But senior citizens still get the messages from banks asking for their Aadhar numbers. A city-based bank manager, talking to G Plus, said that such messages should be ignored as Aadhar card is currently not applicable in Assam. Thus being the case however, people are still eager to know what exactly is an Aadhar card and when can people get one in Assam.

Aadhar and Assam A highly placed source in the Assam Secretariat, who is also an IAS officer, talking to G Plus, said that Aadhar card is a biometric identification of Indian residents created by taking the finger prints and iris scan of the eyes. So the identification is unique to each card holder and the card has a unique identification number. The source said that the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) was set up by the Government of India in January 2009 as an attached office under the aegis of the Planning Commission vide a gazette notification. The UIDAI is mandated to assign a 12-digit Unique Identification (UID) number (termed as Aadhaar) to all the residents of India. As per the notification, the UIDAI has been given the responsibility to lay down plans and policies to implement UID scheme, to own and operate the UID database and be responsible for its updation and maintenance on an

ongoing basis. The implementation of UID scheme entails generation and assignment of UID to residents; defining mechanisms and processes for interlinking UID with partner databases; operation and management of all stages of UID life cycle; framing policies and procedures for the updation mechanism and defining usage and applicability of UID for delivery of various services among others. The number is linked to the resident’s basic demographic and biometric information such as photograph, fingerprints and iris scans, which are stored in a centralised database.

Who will provide Aadhar in Assam? The source said that an Aadhar card is a central government initiative but will be provided in Assam through consultation with the state government under National Population Register (NPR). The primary objective of the NPR, as stated by the Citizenship Act, is the creation of a National Citizen Register. The National Citizen Register is intended to assist in improving security by checking for illegal migration. Additional objectives that have been articulated include providing services to the residents under government schemes and programmes, checking for identity frauds and improving planning. So there are two types of states in India - UIDAI

states and RGI (Register General of India) states. In UIDAI states, Aadhar can be provided by private vendors assigned by UIDAI but in RGI states, Aadhar has to be provided by the government through NPR. The source said that Assam is an RGI state and the Aadhar card process will start after the NRC is completed because, as Aadhar is a unique identification, non-completion of the NRC would allow even the voters who are not genuine citizens in Assam to avail an Aadhar card. So basically Assam will see Aadhar after the NRC is published. NPR enrolment is being carried out through house to house canvassing. The Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India has entrusted the Department of Information Technology (DIT) with the responsibility of collecting and digitizing demographic data in 17 states and 2 union territories of India. Collected information will then be printed and displayed in the local area where it will be scrutinized by local officers and vetted by local bodies called “Gram Sabha/ Ward Committees.” This process of social audit is meant to bring in transparency, equity and ensure accuracy. According to sources in the census office in Assam, the Aadhar process was started in 2014 in three districts (Golaghat, Sonitpur and Nagaon), but because of the NRC being in progress the process is currently stalled and will be started again after the NRC process is completed. The source clarified that NRC is the citizenship record, whereas Aadhar number is a unique identification number and both are different.

The confusion Interestingly the Indian government’s rules and ideas are always confusing as an NRI from America who visited Guwahati recently said that in America there is only one identification number which is known as the social security number and which is also a proof of citizenship because if you are not a citizen there, you cannot get a social security card. The NRI said it looks like India is also following the same idea by providing Aadhar Card to the residents but again it is not a proof of citizenship. Aadhar will help in linking all the bank accounts and other facilities like LPG connections etc., but it will not be accepted as a proof of citizenship. So basically the harassment continues with application for NRC first and then for Aadhar. Even for NRC people had to submit many documents and prove their ancestral relations, etc. The Indian government should think of easing the system instead of complicating it. But one thing the people of Assam should feel carefree about is that they need bother about Aadhar till the NRC process is over. rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

In The News

â&#x20AC;&#x153;NRC update is the top priority,â&#x20AC;? says CM

GPLUS NEWS

Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, during the first day of the State Assembly said that updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) would be the top priority of the State Govt, and that the exercise would be taken along in a foolproof manner. Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Chandra Mohan Patowary said that the NRC would be accomplished at the earliest and that it was difficult to set a deadline because the exercise was vast and a sensitive one that involved a lot of information as well as technicalities. He further said that the team has completed almost 97 percent field work, which includes document verification of 68.08 lakh applicants. The number of documents received is 5.88 crore. The draft NRC copy will be published as soon as possible, and a specific date can be announced only after the next hearing of the Supreme Court.

Inter-state cyber crime racket

busted In connection with CID PS Case No.02/2015 U/S 420 IPC R/W Sec 66A/ 66D IT Act related to a case of cheating of around Rs 11,80,000 from the complainant from Guwahati by scamsters operating from Nalanda District, Bihar and Bokaro District of Jharkhand. The accused by informing that the complainant had won a prize of Tata Safari for a TV Quiz lured the victim to make bank deposits. Investigation by the CID yielded result when one member of the racket who received the defrauded amount through mule accounts and ATM Cards was arrested on 18th July. A team of CID officers led by Inspector Achytuananda Das camped in Nalanda District and after a sustained investigation made the arrest. The arrested accused namely Sunil Kumar Prabhat, of Bokaro District of Jharkhand confessed the involvement in the crime and is being examined further by the Police to investigate the entire ramification of the crime. The arrested accused had been taken into Police custody for a thorough interrogation after production before the CJM, Kamrup (M), Guwahati, Assam.

GPLUS NEWS

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

In Conversation

Rahul Chanda

aving once worked as the Deputy Commissioner of Kamrup Metro over a long tenure, Ashutosh Agnihotri, IAS, recently joined as the CEO of GMDA and also holds the office of the MD of Smart City. Agnihotri understands the loop holes in the development department and exclusively talks to G Plus about his vision of giving a new look not only to the GMDA but to Guwahati as a whole.

You were in Guwahati and the people here know you. We would however, like to refresh our mind and would want to know where you were born and brought up, your education, and the profiles you held before joining the present office. I belong to the 1999 batch of IAS allocated to Assam-Meghalaya cadre. I was born in Kanpur. I did my schooling from Sir Padampat Singhania Education Centre and did my college from Christ Church College, Kanpur. Thereafter, I took the Civil Services examination and I joined the IAS. I did my B.Sc. in Physics and Maths, did my MA in English literature and last year, I went to London School of Economics and did my Masters in Public Management and Governance. As for my earlier assignments, I was first posted as Assistant Commissioner, Nagaon and did my SDMship in Gossaigaon. I was SDO

“My dream is to take GMDA from adhocism to professionalism” Ashutosh Agnihotri, CEO, GMDA Civil in Gossaigaon. Thereafter, I joined the CM Secretariat as Deputy Secretary and Joint Secretary. I was the CEO of GMDA 12 years back for a period of four and a half months. After that, I was Commissioner of GMC for 24 days. That was also in 2004 and thereafter having brief stints in agricultural, GAD, I was made staff officer to the Chief Secretary. That was for a period of one year after which I joined as Director of Staff College for a period of one and a half months. Then, I went to Dibrugarh as Deputy Commissioner where I had a longest tenure of 3 years. From Dibrugarh I went to Nalbari for one and a half years as DC and from Nalbari I came to Kam-

rup Metro as DC. My first stint in Kamrup Metro as DC was for four months from November 2010 to March 2011. But there was some problem that time. We would like to know about that. After I joined, we initiated strong steps against corruption and also against unauthorized occupation of land. There was a strong nexus of corrupt officials and land mafia who, with the help of some unscrupulous elements, occupied some plots of land, especially of persons who were not in a position to protect it or someone, say, who was not in Guwahati and had been working outside for long and so was not able to take care of his plot of land. There are so many technicalities in land matters that it is not possible to keep track of these. So we tried to break that and some vested interests were affected. That seemed to be orchestrated. It was not the employees; the same employees co-operated fully during my second tenure. They were misguided and instigated by some vested interests. But after a brief stint in the finance department as secretary, I was brought back as DC in July 2011 and I received full co-operation from

Date of Birth: 11th March 1974 IAS Batch: 1999, Assam- Meghalaya cadre Date of Marriage: 30th November 2001 Wife’s name: Shruti Smita Agnihotri Children: 3 (one daughter, two sons) Hobbies: Cricket, astrology and creative writing

Major profiles:

Assistant Commissioner, Nagaon SDO Civil, Gossaingaon Deputy and Joint Secretary, CM Secretariat GMC Commissioner DC, Dibrugarh DC, Nalbari DC, Kamrup Metro Secretary, Finance CEO, GMDA Commissioner and Secretary, Transport MD, Smart City

all employees there. Eventually, I had a long 3-year tenure in Guwahati as DC Kamrup Metro. After my stint as DC Kamrup Metro I joined the Planning and Development Department, Science and Technology. I was there for one year after which I went to London for the one-year Masters course. And now, on my return, I have been posted here. I am Commissioner and Secretary, Transport, CEO GMDA and MD Smart City. As you were the DC, Kamrup Metro, you know Guwahati well. Do you think there are things which you wanted to change but could not? I wanted to decongest the city. I personally feel the core area of the city lacks green spaces. The city does not have sufficient parks where elderly people can go for a morning or evening walk. This is something I seriously wanted to do as also develop certain patches along the river where people could sit and relax without the worry of being disturbed by any rowdy elements. These are the two things. With great difficulty we could shift the fish market from Paltan Bazar. The inertia and the system are so strong that as DC you have an important coordinating role. But there are certain things which you are not doing directly like conservancy services, municipal services or planning activities. It is a very important assignment but you have a restricted role to that. We always felt that Guwahati is blessed with best of nature and the worst of what man can make of it. So with such a beautiful river flowing next to Guwahati and with its surrounding hills, it can be the best place in the world. Let’s see. My optimism remains as robust as ever. Let’s clear some common confusion. According to you who exactly is the main authority of Guwahati? If you talk about drains, both GMC and PWD are involved. For street lights GMC and electricity department get involved. Sometimes even ad spaces are provided both by GMC and also GMDA. So who exactly is the authority in Guwahati? Let us first understand and be clear about the roles. As a responsible citizen and journalist I would like you to be clear about the roles. Deputy Commissioner is the in-charge of land administration. Before the commissionerate was formed he was also the head of law

and order. Other assignments like elections, supplies, district disaster management are also in the domain of the Deputy Commissioner. Commissioner of Guwahati Municipal Corporation is responsible for the municipal functions which have been transferred by the constitutional mandate of the 74th amendment, where an urban local body is supposed to function as a local self-government so it can collect taxes, take care of cleanliness, street lights, etc. These are its functions. The role of the development authority traditionally and ideally is to prepare the city to meet the challenges of the future. It has a futuristic planning role, and the development authority should be in a position to create a plan for Guwahati’s next 20 years, 50 years or 100 years giving direction to the growth. Whatever growth has happened in and around Guwahati has happened on its own. Here, like other cities you do not have development authorities acquiring land, developing it, constructing roads, filling it up, constructing drains, laying underground cables and giving residential plots, commercial and industrial. Here you must have seen that roads come in the middle of a field. They build a house and then, another house comes up, and then a 3rd house comes up and 4th and finally there is a habitation. And then there is a demand for a road and then a road comes up and after that when water gets accumulated then the drains start over flowing. So, it is a reverse process in which development takes place. This kind of things should not happen in any planned city. So, this is the primary responsibility of Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority. GMDA looks forward for scientific development of the city with safe housing, proper road network and drain network. Guwahati had its existence since so long and it became capital virtually overnight. Earlier it was Shillong. This was a small town but then it became the capital city. And if you visit Delhi you will see the roads are so wide. But Guwahati has not been planned that well. When you see the alignment of houses you do not see a regular fashion. I believe that the role of the Development Authority is not to get into day to day functioning and fire fighting. It has to have a visionary role to prepare the city to meet the challenges of the future housing needs, urban transport and the like. The city should be planned in such a manner that it attracts economic investment. It becomes the engine of growth. All these things are what GMDA should be doing.

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

In Conversation

There are lots of projects GMDA has taken but nothing has been completed successfully. For example, the foot over bridges; although these have been constructed people are not using them because there are no escalators and the tenders for escalators are pending since a long time. I am seriously looking into the matter. You see GMDA came into existence in 1992. So, 24 years have passed already. Now the organisation should grow and evolve. GMDA still has the same number of engineers. Some people have been taken on contract but with the city growing so fast and its demands and pressure increasing, the organisation cannot handle it with such type of a structure. It has to be revamped, redesigned completely. There should be proper planning, a proper infrastructure, engineering wing, monitoring wing, financial wing and legal wing. It’s not there. So, my dream is to take GMDA from ‘adhocism’ to professionalism. We have been doing it from today to tomorrow. Not even today but from this moment to tomorrow. We have to move purposefully into the future strategically. People may criticize GMDA that water logging is happening and these problems are not being addressed. This is not something which should bother us immediately because if we are doing something strategically we will see the results after a few years. It may be a much deglamourized job as

you may not get acclaim and praise immediately, but I am not looking for that. I want institutional building to be my priority. I should be able to create a development authority which does what it ought to do and not what it is asked to do. It should steer the development of Guwahati purposefully and prepare it for future challenges. As GMDA CEO would you prioritize five major problems of Guwahati? Very insufficient and inadequate road network for one. There are not too many roads. You have a GS Road, GNB Road and RG Baruah Road but you should be having a much wider grid of roads. Huge problem of parking, insufficient green spaces, lack of recreational facilities and of course water logging. What are the immediate changes you would want to bring to Guwahati? Immediately I want to do the organizational revamp. Before I try to do anything outside I must set the house in order. So any change must begin from where I am sitting. Organizational revamp is top priority. I want to build this institution to have the right kind of people who have the right kind of motivation, right kind of incentives and not some other incentives for working so that they perform the duties which they are supposed to be performing. Secondly, I want to minimise the in-

convenience of people. I know that the organization is notorious for many things and I want technology driven solutions so that people do not face any kind of harassment. They get the services they want without paying even a single penny, without facing any kind of harassment. That is why I want to minimize the interface. Why should people be required to come here? World over people get services at home. So this is what my endeavour would be. I also want to complete the projects which have been pending for long - like the two car parking projects, ropeway project and to start the project of developing the botanical garden at the old jail campus about which the government has already made an announcement. These are the priorities from the GMDA’s side and smart city project which we have already conceptualized. Taking about smart city you are MD Smart City which is a very responsible post. People are saying that after 5 years Guwahati will turn into a smart city. Is it really possible? It is very much possible. I will request people for their cooperation, for their patience. Sustainable change does not happen overnight, it takes time. But Guwahati definitely has the potential of turning smarter and turning lovelier. So, for that, a number of schemes have been put on the concept paper now which will be translated into projects. These works will start 5 months from

now because it is in the preliminary stage where the company has just been set up. A lot of preliminary work has to be done which includes development of river front of Bharalu, Mora Bharalu, Borsola. Also, to have an intelligent traffic system and transport system will take time but people won’t have to wait for 5 years. They will see the results much earlier. You are also heading the transport department. Transport is another department which is very chaotic in Assam. Especially in Guwahati none of the public transport vehicles are regulated. Auto rickshaws are not using metres, city buses stop anywhere, they don’t issue tickets and a lot of trekkers and tempos are running without license. So how are you going to change the system? As DC, I tried to regulate the autowalas. It couldn’t happen because of a deep rooted vested interest. So, as we couldn’t regulate them we introduced radio taxis. If you are not able to erase a line the best thing is to draw a bigger line. Once there is healthy competition in the market it phases out something which cannot survive the competition. So now we have OLA, UBER and all these radio taxis. People in emergency cannot use them as these are app

based. But still to some extent the problem has been addressed. I won’t say it has solved the problem entirely. The department is bound to regulate and enforce whatever is necessary. Now since I am in the Transport Department I cannot take the plea of what I could as Deputy Commissioner because now I have to ensure that all those measures are strictly enforced, buses run on time, people should know the timings of buses. Four buses should not be parked at the same time or on the same route. There should be proper time keeping. It should be displayed electronically if possible. I was thinking that people sitting at home know at what particular time the next bus is arriving so that they leave their houses accordingly. So use of technology holds the key for minimizing the inconvenience of the people and makes transport smart, safe and sustainable. People will see changes. I am a robust optimist. Tell us about your family and hobbies? My wife is in Indian Railway Accounts Services. I have 3 children. My wife has also written a novel titled “Salt Sugar and Spice.” I have a daughter who is 11 years old and twin sons who are 8. They all are in Guwahati. My hobbies include cricket, astrology and creative writing. rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

In The News

Juthika Baruah

New legislation puts Assamese cinema on the revival path

Assam Amusement and Betting Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2016 passed in budget session

“More halls need to be constructed; the day when Assam will have 300 cinema halls regional films will automatically revive,” Bani Das, movie director

Producers to get Rs. 52 per ticket worth Rs. 100 after the implementation of the bill

“There have been many good films released in the last couple of years but people have not watched them for lack of opportunities or suitable timings and the hall owners’ haste to withdraw the film after one week,” Manjula Baruah, veteran actor

Government should provide grant of Rs. 50 lakh to new entrepreneurs for construction of cinema halls 300 cinema halls needed in Assam for revival of Assamese cinema

Although the Assamese film industry has completed 80 years of cinema, it is lagging behind on all parameters vis-a-vis other regional cinema industries and the quality of movies being produced is a matter of concern – a factor in which the industry is failing miserably. Screening regional films has always thrown exhibitors into a dilemma with their contention that the poor quality of cinema does not draw audiences and most of the time they have to exhibit the regional movie to a virtually empty hall. On the one hand, the hall owners assert that due to the lack of quality films they are not able to screen regional movies on prime time or allow more than one show. On the other hand, the film fraternity claim that if regional cinema is not given prime time and more than one show people are left with no scope to watch such movies. The All Assam Cinema Hall Owners’ Association said that they are ready to allot prime time as demanded by the producers but they have to decide as to which slot would be the best for screening of regional films so that the hall is full enough and does meaningful ticket sales. “The allegation of charging high service charges has been subjected to accusation despite our best efforts to support regional cinema. We will be obliged if we could screen regional films but people have to accept it. The film runs for only two days and for the other 5 days we have

“We don’t have any problem in screening regional films but the quality of such films should be such that the audience will accept the films enough to come and watch them.” Rajib Bora, Secretary, All Assam Cinema Hall Owners’ Association

The Assam Amusement and Betting Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2016 has been passed in the budget session so that producers and distributors can be benefitted in what is clearly a first step to revive the Assamese film industry to keep the hall closed,” said the Secretary of the Hall Owners’ Association, Rajeev Kr. Bora. Arguing that most of the Assamese films being produced in the state have failed to draw crowds to the halls, Bora said that exhibitors were ready to give all the proceeds from ticket sales to the Assamese film producers provided the latter agree to give back the minimum costs incurred in exhibiting the films. Bora added, “The service charge is Rs. 5 per ticket per show as per the Act but the government had made provisions that the cinema halls which were

“We don’t have any problem in screening regional films but the quality of such films should be such that the audience will accept the films enough to come and watch them. In other states regional cinemas is screened at par with Bollywood productions but here in Assam people do not watch regional cinema. Given the string of poor productions, Assamese people have come to bear a mindset that regional films are not worth watching,” Bora said. Finance Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, introduced the Assam Amusement and Betting Tax (Amendment)

In 2007, a policy was made by the government without any consent of the filmmakers and it was only the hall owners who benefitted from it. The filmmakers were hardly allowed any profit and they failed to be benefitted from the policy. upgraded with digital sound system, push-back seats and air-conditions could levy some additional charges. Now only 14 cinema halls charge Rs. 40 as service charge.” Bora said that on 4th May, 2016, the government had fixed Rs. 14 as the service charge without any discussion with the hall owners. Therefore the association has urged the government that if any policy is being made currently, the hall owners should also be invited along with the film fraternity.

Bill, 2016 as members of Assamese Film Fraternity had been protesting and airing serious grievances against the Assam Amusement and Betting Tax (Amendment) Act, 2007 which benefits only the hall owners and not the producers and directors. It was during the election that the BJP had promised to introduce the bill and the promise has been fulfilled in the budget session. With the implementation of the bill, the producers and distributors will receive Rs. 52

for every ticket worth Rs. 100 against screening of Assamese films. Currently under the 2007 Act, producers and directors get only Rs. 7-8 on every ticket sold. Director Bani Das, while speaking to G Plus, said, “It is because of lack of halls that the regional films do not run and the hall owners do not screen the films over prime time. They give only one show which is usually what we call the Noon Show at 11 am to which most working people cannot go. The producers have no scope to be benefitted from the film as the entertainment tax has been withdrawn and till 2009 the producers got a mere 80 paisa per ticket worth Rs. 100. With the amendment of the bill the government has balanced the system with the earlier Act.” Das further stated that there are many “flying” directors and producers who come and experiment with a new film and when they don’t get good response they disappear giving the entire gamut of Assamese movies a bad name in the process. “We have also recommended certain things to the government like the state government should provide financial grant of Rs. 50 lakh to the new entrepreneurs who want to construct a cinema hall and an initial 5-year tax holiday so that they can make some profits after recovering their share of investments. More halls need to be constructed; the day when Assam will have 300 cinema halls regional films will automatically revive,” added Das.

“Now that the producers will get back a handsome amount there is a chance that the Assamese film industry might recover its lost dignity,” Sanjive Narain, movie producer Actor Manjula Baruah said that it is not due to any poor quality that regional cinema is not watched by the public and the hall owners who allege that they do not earn profit by screening Assamese cinema is not satisfactory. “The hall owner charges a phenomenal Rs. 40 for their upgraded cinema hall (which is a one-time investment) and this is not acceptable. No wonder a producer does not get the return on his investment! There have been many good films released in the last couple of years but people have not watched them for lack of opportunities or suitable timings and the hall owners’ haste to withdraw the film after one week.” Prolific movie producer, Sanjive Narain said, “The government has taken a good step by amending the bill which will benefit the producers. This is the first step the government has taken to revive the Assamese film industry and there is much more to do. It is not that Assamese films don’t have quality but the producers do not get back the money from a film in which they invest. Now that the producers will get back a handsome amount there is a chance that the Assamese film industry might recover its lost dignity. In rural areas where people have the urge to see regional films there are no halls and so people do not get the chance to watch films. If such places have halls, there is no way that regional cinema will fail.” juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Concern

DTO enforcement drives add up to zero; public transport system remains unregulated

Juthika Baruah

The DTO carried out many enforcement drives and tried to regulate the public transport system but have failed to compel the associations to follow the rules and regulations The District Transport Office (DTO) has failed to regularize the public transport system which creates chaos in the city resulting in traffic congestion and a large number of accidents. The DTO had undertaken many initiatives to regularize the transport system all of which have gone in vain and the recent order for replacing the 10-15 year-old share taxis by 31st March, 2016 has also remained unimplemented as the matter is under litigation. The status of different transport systems in the city is yet to be verified.

Private City bus Earlier, the DTO and traffic department had conducted multiple drives to regulate the city buses but the buses plying in the city still do not follow rules and regulations resulting in many accidents. That the city buses do not issue tickets is always a major concern. There are multiple associations under which the buses operate in the city. There are 774 city buses out of which 197 buses run on Route No. 6 and more than 100 buses run on Route No. 1. There are 32 routes and buses run only on eight of these. The other 24 routes are virtually non-functional. The 774 buses are variously under 8 associations and while they are least bothered about modes of operation, rules and regulations, their sole motive at the end of the day remains profit.

An official source of DTO said that many routes have been rationalized so that it does not create traffic congestion and there are many routes which have overlapped with the routes which have been rationalized. Many such routes have been withdrawn for free flow of traffic. The regulatory body, the Regional Transport Authority (RTA), does not have any role to play as the buses operate through private operators. This is the main problem and until and unless the organizations are brought under one single umbrella organization the problem cannot be solved.

Auto-Rickshaw Earlier, the DTO had organized

a meeting with the Auto-Rickshaw Owners’ Association Coordination Committee, legal metrology, transport department, district administration and police department to operate the city’s auto-rickshaw service by free and fair means. The auto service in the city is very old but it seems that of late the public has started to dislike the service because of the rude behaviour of the auto drivers and the irrational, unregulated fares they charge. The Gauhati High Court in a verdict said that auto-rickshaws should install fare meters immediately and that the autorickshaw owners’ association coordination committee should implement the government prescribed rates, i.e. Rs. 30 for the first 2 kms against the meter reading of Rs. 10 and Rs. 3 for

every subsequent 200 metres or part, i.e. Rs. 15 for every subsequent km. The waiting charge should be Rs. 3 for every 5 minutes, i.e. Rs. 36 per hour. The fare during night time, i.e. from 10 pm to 5 am, will increase by 50% over the normal fare. But the auto-rickshaw association has not accepted these rates of the government and till date it has not followed the rules and regulations framed by the government. When queried about the status report of the fare-meter system of auto-rickshaws, a reliable source from the department said that they have sent the report to the government and it is the government who will take action. Until and unless the government takes a step the department cannot regulate or enforce the meter system.

Total no. of transport vehicles available in the district as per records of issuance of permits: Category of vehicles for which permit issued Total permits issued Mini City Bus

1060

Mini City Bus under ASTC Operation

Deluxe Express city bus I/C ASTC operation

192

Ten Seater share taxi within GMC area

1008

Ten Seater Share Taxi outside GMC area

Share Taxi In a meeting held earlier by the RTA and the district administration, it was discussed that the physical condition of most of the vehicles has deteriorated to the extent that the passengers’ safety is at risk. Also, the aesthetics of the city has been compromised by the age-old vehicles besides threatening the safety of other commuters and pedestrians. The RTA had given a time period of 6 months from the date of the meeting held in December 2013. However, it was later decided that the age-old vehicles should be replaced within 31st March, 2016. “The High Court has given a stay order and the date for the next hearing was given in the fourth week of April, 2016. The age-old share taxi and city buses create problems and it is risky for the passengers and so need to be replaced,” the source said. The source further informed that the department has tried to regulate the vehicles but until and unless the government issues an order they can’t take any action. It has been informed that the department has sent the entire report to the government so that the entire system can be regulated. Although the department does carry out enforcement drives, the city buses and trekkers continue to violate traffic norms with impunity leading to accidents and traffic chaos in the city. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Concern

Juthika Baruah

Non-implementation of Cable TV Act harassing operators, viewers

Cable TV operators demand tax holiday up to 2018 The digitization of 4th phase in the state has been extended to 31st December, 2016 100% digitization has been done in Guwahati

Subsidy in A&BT should be given in multiple connections

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India has mandated compulsory digitization of cable network by declaring sunset of the analogue system throughout the country. While digitization has been completed in Guwahati, nonimplementation of the Cable TV Act by negligent authorities has led to a disgruntled atmosphere among operators who have made huge investments in the digital transition but have failed to extract their revenues accordingly. The Cable TV Operators Forum of Assam (COFA) demanded the implementation of the Cable TV Act in order to regulate the digitization. It was instructed to withdraw the analogue system within 31st March, 2014 which was extended till 31st March 2015. But in Assam it was again extended till March, 2016. The areas under municipality and town committees of Assam fall under Phase 3 whose deadline had been fixed for 31st December, 2015 and the other areas under Phase 4, which is set to be digitized, has been extended till 31st December, 2016. The cable TV industry is governed by Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and the Cable Television Network (Regulation) Act, 1995. The various provisions of the Act and Regulation have been entrusted to the District Magistrate, Additional District Magistrate, Sub-divisional Magistrate at ground level who are the authorized officers for implementation of the same. But the authorised persons have not taken any action regarding the implementation of the Act. Speaking to G Plus, General Secretary of COFA, Iquebal Ahmed said,

Adib zamali/G Plus

COFA demands to implement the Cable TV Act

The state government fails to implement the Cable TV act and the cable TV operators have been subjected to harassment as the rules and regulations have not been implemented by the authorized officers “In Guwahati, 100% digitization has been done but the cable TV operators are taking the same rent as earlier when the operators should be now paid per channel subscriptions. There are different schemes in the digital process outright purchase of which the price should be declared by the Multi System Operators (MSOs) as also for the monthly rental and hire purchase schemes. There are two systems – “Ala Carte” which consists of single channel and “Bouquet” which has a diamond pack of different channels. People can select their channels according to their choice and payments can be made accordingly. But the authorized officers have not implemented the system for which the cable

considering the cable TV industry as an avenue for only ploughing in taxes while not taking any responsibility to protect the interests of the cable industry and the operators. The Cable TV operators also held a meeting and decided to submit a memorandum pointing out the issues that the cable TV industry, although recognized as a small scale industry in 1994 itself, is yet to get the benefits from the state government. The Government of Assam which has already levied an amount of Rs. 25 per month per connection of Direct to Home Service (DTH) subscribers is unable to produce the facts and figures of the amount collected from the DTH in a query sought through RTI.

It has been alleged by the cable TV operators that they are subjected to harassment from various quarters due to ignorance of rules and regulations by the authorized officers under state government leading to closure of networks. Presently, the state government has conferred the responsibility on the Information and Public Relation Department to look after matters related to cable TV which is not the competent authority as per the Act. TV operators are facing losses.” The cable operators are shocked and surprised about the recent decision of the state government to increase the Amusement and Betting Tax (A&BT) from Rs. 10 to Rs. 20 per subscriber per month and the operators have strongly condemned this decision of the state government and for

partment to look after matters related to cable TV and which is not the competent authority as per the Act. They also alleged that the state government is unable to collect a single penny from the pay channel broadcasters who are collecting huge amounts in revenue. The cable TV operators demanded that a tax holiday up to 2018 as operators are already over burdened by the investments made for the transition from analogue to digital. They have also demanded that subsidy should be given in A&BT for multiple connections as most of the subscribers have more than one TV and therefore the operators appealed to subsidize the A&BT rate for the multiple connections giving a relief to the subscribers. The state government shall take immediate and urgent steps to press the authorized officers as defined in the Cable TV Act to do the needful for implementation of its provisions. The government had taken the decision to digitize cable TV through which they would have the information as to how many households have cable connection. The government would collect entertainment tax accordingly and the pay channels would also get the advantage out of it. The pay channels subsequently will get to know how many households are viewing which channels and accordingly they will fix the rate. Earlier, through cable system they used to get just a minimum amount but after it gets digitalized and they will be able to charge fees according to channels subscribed by the public from the MSO and the MSO will, in turn, charge from the cable operators.

The Cable TV Act, 1995 Before the introduction of cable television in India, broadcasting was solely under the control of the State. The Government of India was caught unprepared with the emergence of cable networks and broadcasting through satellites in the early 1990s. The cable market is divided into three categories. Broadcasters, who are at the top of the pyramid, the Multi-System Operators are in the middle and the local cable operators are at the bottom of the pyramid. Object of the Act The object of the Act was to regulate the ‘haphazard mushrooming of cable television networks’. Due to the lack of licensing mechanism for cable operators, it resulted in a large number of cable operators, broadcasting programmes without any regulation. This was due to the availability of signals from foreign television networks via satellite communication. The access to foreign television networks was considered to be a “cultural invasion” as these channels portrayed western culture. The Act aimed at regulating content and operation of cable networks. Amendment to the Act in 2003 Numerous complaints were received by the Government stating that there has been unreasonable price hike in cable television by the cable operators. Moreover, the cable operator were not paying appropriate revenue by concealing there income and under-reporting their income. A special task force instituted by the government, in its study, noted that the consumers do not have the choice to select the premium channels they wanted to watch. In order to give choice to the consumer it recommended the introduction of conditional access systems (CAS). This would require the consumers to set up set-top boxes which will allow the consumers to view all the free to air channel and he can choose to watch any of the premier channels for a charge. Multiple System Operators (MSO) Multiple system operators (MSO) are operators of multiple cable television systems. The majority of system operators run cable systems in more than one community and hence most of them are multiple system operators. Multiple system operators are companies that acquire multiple CATV systems brought under control of single corporate entity where individual CATV systems may or may not be combined to single networks or combined at regional or metropolitan levels. In India, Digicable, with 3,25,00,500 subscribers is one of the biggest MSOs in the world. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Barking dogs often bite!

City

What the

GPLUS NEWS

Animal Bite Cases registered in GMCH in 2016

January 519 Cases February 439 Cases March 546 Cases April 415 Cases May 481 Cases June 466 Cases July till 19th day 369 Cases

Large scale sterilization and vaccination of the stray dogs is the most urgent and efficient process that can help in controlling their population and demobilize the chances of the dogs being rabid. In Guwahati itself there is an estimate of 25,000 to 30,000 number of stray dogs. “Rabies control is done in two components; human and animal and vaccinating and sterilization of dogs is the most effective way to control the virus from spreading. Once sterilization dogs become much less aggressive and also get much healthier. Also, if all dogs are vaccinated, there is no question of a dog becoming rabid. Vaccination and sterilisation go hand-in-hand. There are several cities where this model is successful,” said Dr. Sashanka Sekhar Dutta, chief functionary at JBF (Just Be Friendly). Chennai city showed the way to the rest of the country in 1995 when

#SleepingBeauty Rahul

Ashok Garekar @DrGarekar It is immaterial that #RahulGandhi sleeps in parliament,best thing is that he does not snore & does not disturb others in their sound sleep #SleepingBeautyRahul #RahulGandhi awake or asleep, sum total is the same. #GoodForNothing #RaGa Joogadu Boy @JoogaduBoy Martin Luther King: I have a dream. Rahul Gandhi: Me too. #RahulGandhi #LokSabha Chandana Roy @ chandanaroy24 Whether he’s moisturizing his eyes or catnapping, he has surely mistimed his POWER NAP. #RahulGandhi #SnoozingRaGa

3265 Cases

Need of the hour

Tweet!?

Rakesh Bhargava @profrb #RahulGandhi meditating in the middle of important debate looking at his mobile with eyes closed moisturising eyes by shut eye Wow Amazing

Total number cases so far

As per reports India accounts for 20,000 of the 45,000 deaths due to rabies every year. Worldwide, India has the highest rate of human rabies in the world primarily due to stray dogs. With over 95 per cent of the time rabies virus being transmitted through dog bites, the focus must be on the animal too. Meanwhile, reports also say that high number of deaths is due to the low proportion of vaccinated dogs. The Guwahati Medical College and Hospital itself sees an average of 6,000 animal bite cases annually and an average of 6 cases every day. Dogs being the most vulnerable conveyor through which the contagious and fatal viral disease spreads the most it is time that the government comes up with initiatives to dispel the disease.

the city’s corporation is came up with the idea of removing all dogs from the streets of Chennai and isolating them in government-run pounds – a place from where there is no return. The retrograde idea first raised its head in the time and by 2013 saw a massive drop in the number of human deaths due to rabies. “It is not just the stray ones, even pet dogs have accounted for a good number of dog bite cases. However, the prime focus has to be the stray ones, whose number is increasing in a very disturbing manner. Dogs are territorial animals if an area is freed from stray dogs it is within no time that few other dogs will enter the area. The process will go on until a massive drive is carried out in the city,” Dutta mentioned. An initiative was taken up in Guwahati in 2009 after The Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001 which stated that every city’s local authority along with Animal Welfare Board of India shall initiate plans and manage dog control programs in the cities. “Guwahati was the second city after Delhi to implement the rule. In 2009 JBF in association with the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC), the nodal agency for tackling such activities, started a sterilisation and vaccination drive in the capital city. As a pilot project 80 dogs were vaccinated and sterilized but was not continued on a regular basis,” Dutta said adding The project was re-instated in September 2014 till May 2015 and during the process 4,500 dogs were sterilized. However, like the initiatives taken like previous years the process was not stagnant and gradually came to an end without producing the deserved fruitful result, reason being

fund deficiency. In order to make the city free of rabid dogs it will require an estimate amount of 20 lakhs and within one year a mammoth number of stray dogs can be vaccinated regardless that the GMC (Guwahati Municipal Commission) provides uninterrupted co-operation to the concerned body carrying out the project,” Dutta added.

Intervention of the Court The Supreme Court of India on 19th March issued a judgement that stated the Animal Welfare Board is to co-operate and co-ordinate with the association

The friendly neighbour JBF (Just Be Friendly) focuses on rabies and dog population management under the banner of “Humane Dog and Rabies Management Program”. It has entered into agreements with local governments of Guwahati and Jorhat for the same and has been carrying out a war on a second front through vaccination programs and regular ABC and vaccination. JBF’s first initiative was taken up in 2007 and it was in 2009 when the animal welfare trust joined hands with GMC but no fruitful result could be achieved. However, JBF has been independently working on their dog population management plan with the help of few like-minded people. Till date JBF has constituted over 15,000 successful vaccination and sterilization surgeries of stray dogs. The treated dogs are then returned to their native places after being marked with a sign on their ear which helps in identifying the sterilized dog.

In Jaipur ABC+AR (Animal Birth Control + Anti Rabies) started in 1997, from 2001 onwards there are 0 rabies incidents (100% achievement in 4 yrs) In Jodhpur, Rajasthan, ABC+AR studies have confirmed that the 80% threshold of vaccination coverage in the stray dog population is achievable. In Chennai ABC+AR started in 1996, from 2005 onwards there are 0 rabies incidents (100% achievement in by 2014) Sikkim is the only State in India where there is an animal welfare division named Sikkim AntiRabies and Animal Health (SARAH) Programme.

Niraj Bora @nJJ1 Why so buzz on RaGa sleeping in between hot debates.... What he could have possibly done being awake anyway ? #RahulGandhi #RaGa Rahul Bajaj @rahulbajaj #RahulGandhi apparently slept in the parliament. National issue. Govt. sleeping for last 2 years as the country burns. No problem. Amarjeet Das @Amarjeet_Das Doesn’t matter whether he sleeps or speaks, he gives us comic relief anyway. #RahulGandhi Samir Bhattacharya @ Humantard It needs guts to sleep in Parliament whn whole country is watching u, I can’t even sleep in office fearing my manager. Respect #RahulGandhi Ashok Garekar @DrGarekar It is immaterial that #RahulGandhi sleeps in parliament,best thing is that he does not snore & does not disturb others in their sound sleep Ambika @Ambika1920 The youth icon is sleeping after playing the Pokemon for the entire night #RahulGandhi tussi gr8 ho mo @ramchandani2000 #RahulGandhi cannot be charged for sleeping in loksabha as he was not disturbing proceedings of house Rishikesh Bhadakwade @dj_ rishi Don’t blame #RahulGandhi for sleeping in Parliament. Long & boring speeches by MPs can put any child to sleep.

Crime

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

KALYAN DEB

Brakes screeching on car lifters, another operative arrested Ramesh Yadav, one of the major receivers of stolen vehicles in Dimapur, apprehended by Basistha police

Basistha police made a breakthrough in the vehicle lifting case when a team of men in khaki nabbed one Ramesh Yadav from Dimapur on 16th July last. Yadav was an associate of notorious vehicle lifter Anil Chouhan, who was arrested in April 2015. Chouhan was suspected to assist the ‘kingpin’ of a countrywide network of vehicle lifters and Yadav had worked with Chouhan as a driver for around 10 years. It was after an extensive investigation and an elaborately laid trap that the car lifter has been put behind bars. Yadav is also one of the receivers of stolen vehicles in Dimapur.

association with Dimapur police kept track of the activities of the suspect’s phone and it soon came to light that Nazarul had checked into the hotel again the very next day. Police

Yadav’s background

Modus Operandi Basistha police, after a through follow-up of suspected vehicle lifters, got their cue when they traced a vehicle that was being transported to Dimapur. Police traced the vehicle through its driver and his phone number and the IMEI number of his mobile phone. Meanwhile, another vehicle lifter named Lachit Basumatary, who was arrested from Kerela, was fielded by the police in order to trap other vehicle lifters. It soon came to light that the driver of the vehicle was accompanied by one Nazarul Ahmed and had checked into a hotel named Rajdhani Fort in Dimapur on 2nd July. However, the CCTV footage of the hotel could not be found. Thus the presence of Nazarul could not be traced. Meanwhile, Basistha police in

with the help of Dimapur police and made a fake call to Yadav asking him to come and take delivery of a package. Yadav, enticed by the offer showed up, fell into the trap and was apprehended by the police. Sources in the police mentioned that it was an in-depth investigation and several names came up after nabbing Yadav. The name of one Umo Osho, who is from Manipur, also surfaced and police made attempts to apprehend him too. However, he managed to flee.

managed to procure the CCTV footage of the hotel and to find the phone number which Nazarul had registered while checking into the hotel. After tracing the calls made by Nazarul and the driver of the vehicle it was found that the two were in contact with each other the same day and another mobile number that was registered to one Victor Sumi was being used by Ramesh Yadav. The police then laid a trap

Police re-apprehends runaway On Thursday police re-arrested one Bickey Pradhan alias Kancha from Saukuchi. Bickey broke out of the lavatory of the police station on Tusday evening. The accused hatched his plan on the pretext of going to the washroom. Bickey thereafter managed to break the grill of the window of the lavatory and escaped from the police’s custody. It was around 3 am on Thursday morning that the police got information of Bickey’s whereabouts and he was nabbed at around 10 am. A resident of Paltanbazar Gate Number 2, he was booked on charges of theft (case no. 690/16).

Apart from being an associate of Anil Chouhan, Yadav has been convicted in several cases of vehicle lifting in several parts of Assam. In Guwahati too there are several cases against Yadav in various police stations like Gorchuk PS (case number 221/09), Panbazar (case number 181/14), Dispur (case number 663/15), Azara (case numbers 69/15 and 101/15). Police is hopeful of securing a major breakthrough in the vehicle lifting racket. Dimapur is one of the hubs where stolen vehicles are traded and sold back in the market after the vehicles are suitably altered. It was also informed that Kathkati Gate and Manda Gate are the two major points through which vehicles are transported to Dimapur.

In a breakthrough police nabbed one Ramesh Yadav one of the prime receivers of stolen vehicles Yadav was an associate of veteran vehicle lifter Anil Chouhan who was arrested in April, 2015 There are five different cases registered against Yadav in several police stations of Guwahati It was after a thorough followup of suspected vehicle lifters that the police managed to put Yadav behind bars Police got their cue when they traced a vehicle that was being transported to Dimapur It was after keeping track of several other associates of Yadav that police finally managed to lay a trap for him Another receiver, Umo Osho’s name came up while interrogating Yadav but Osho managed to flee It is expected that several other names involved in the racket will be revealed

kalyan.deb@g-plus.in

MBRS Hosts XXXI All India IPSC Aquatic Boys (Swimming & Water Polo) Tournament Miles Bronson Residential School, Borjhar, Guwahati for the first time in the city, hosted the Indian Public School Conference (IPSC) Aquatic Boys (Swimming & Water Polo) Tournament under the age groups of 14, 17 and 19 in its Swimming Pool from 19th July to 21st July 2016. All together 18 teams namely Emerald Heights International School, Indore, Modern School Barakhamba Road, New Delhi, Welham Boys School, Dehradun, The Doon School, Dehradun, B.K. Birla Centre for Education, Pune, Yadvindra Public School, Mohali, Birla Public School, Pilani, Punjab Public School, Nabha, DPS, Mathura Road, Delhi, Yadvindra Public

School, Patiala, Motilal Nehru School of Sports Rai, Haryana, The Assam Valley School, Balipara, Daly College, Indore, Genesis Global School, Noida, Tashi Namagyal Academy, Sikkim, Mann Public School, New Delhi, Mayo College, Ajmer and the host Miles Bronson Residential School, Borjhar participated in the mega event. The best swimmers in the various age categories were as follows: • U 14 – Tanmay Das, DPS, Delhi • U 17 – Arbaj Khan, YPS, Patiala & Vihan Mendiratta, Modern School, New Delhi • U 19 – Deepanshu Dahiya, Modern School, New Delhi

Weather report for the week Guwahati

SUN 24 July

MON 25 July

TUE 26 July

WED 27 July

THU 28 July

FRI 29 July

Heavy Rain

Numerous showers

Partly Sunny

26 / 36 °C

25 / 36 °C

26 / 37 °C

26 / 34 °C

24 / 31 °C

SATURDAY

23 July

Widely scattered tstorms

27 / 36 °C

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Dynamic academic duo playing significant roles in grooming students

Society

Juthika Baruah

With the establishment of MBRS and Akash Institute, the Dutta couple has groomed thousands of students and shaped their careers Well known academic duo, Dr. N.K. Dutta and Nandini Dutta, both long associated with the academic line of work, have seen successful careers with the former being the principal and founder of Miles Bronson Residential School (MBRS) while his wife is the director of Akash Coaching Institute. It was in 1987 that Dutta had started MBRS with a small set up and with only 17 students in a rented house in Jyotinagar. After one year, with the surging demand for seats and the requirement of more space, he wanted to shift the school but found no takers who would give their premises on rent to a school as it basically spoils the building and the surroundings. However, he was lucky to find a rented house in Beltola as Benudhar Borgohain was kind enough to provide his house on rent. Dr. Dutta had enthusiastically completed his LL.B. but he never practiced as he chose to venture into his own business. After completing his Masters he joined a tea garden. However, he didn’t quite enjoy the job and therefore made up his mind to start a boarding school for the students of the state. He completed his pre degree (Arts) from Cotton College and graduation and Masters in History from Kirorimal College, Delhi and did his Ph.D. from Tilak Maharashtra University, Pune. Presently, he has

been selected to pursue the Doctorate of Education program by the Exeter University, UK. During his academic career he observed that most of the students in Delhi University had come from some of the most reputed boarding schools, were very knowledgeable and had rounded personalities. They were also very active in all student-related activities. This observation helped him in firming up his decision to start a boarding school in Assam for the children of the state. “Everyone cannot be a doctor or engineer but it is very important that a child should be groomed with the exceptional qualities inherent in him or her. Students who pass out from boarding schools have such qualities and they can play a variety of sports like basketball, volleyball, football, etc. which is required. To provide such opportunities, I started MBRS here in Guwahati so that children could get the best of facilities. From the small set up that I started with, the school now has quite a big campus on 83 bighas of land. I believe it is the biggest boarding school campus in Assam,” Dr. Dutta reiterated. He said that the students who passed out from MBRS have grown up with rounded personalities and not just as professionals. “One should have the quality of a good human being and we guide each and every student to be an expert in all the fields and not just

be academically bright. Extra-curricular activities are very important. One can make a career in sports, dance, acting, singing, etc. and it is only in MBRS that students are being provided with training in these things so that they can choose a career in any of these lines,” Dr. Dutta said. As on date, most of the students pass the examination by learning from the textbook but don’t have the general knowledge which is very important to groom up a responsible personality. “There are many boarding schools which impart only academic knowledge which is not sufficient. When I was studying I saw the way the students were groomed outside. This inspired me to give shape and direction to MBRS,” said Dutta. Dr. Dutta is passionate about educating children and his wife Nandini Dutta, who became associated with the education business after she got married to Dr. Dutta, complements this passion. “I was never into the teaching profession before. It was after my marriage that I entered the teaching profession when Mr. Dutta started MBRS. After MBRS got good response from parents they urged me to start a coaching centre for the students who want to crack medical and engineering entrance exams. That is how I started the first centre in Panbazar in 2003. I received very good response from the students and parents and eventually I

had to reject many applications due to non-availability of seats. Rejecting students due to non-availability of seats bothered me and I decided to start another centre in Ganeshguri for the benefit of the students,” said Nandini Dutta. She said that apart from national level engineering and medical preparation, the program of Akash aims at offering assistance to students to prepare for the state board exams as well. “The students come out with good results. When parents came to know about the institute many of them requested me to open a centre in Dharapur for the students of this part of the city. Panbazar or Ganeshguri is obviously too much of a distance to cover for such students. Therefore I opened the centre in Dharapur and also one in Silchar,” she added. Dr. Dutta received the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Silver Award on 19th November, 2005. He has been selected for the prestigious Project Zero Classroom Programme by the Principal’s Centre, Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard University, Boston, USA in July, 2015. He has also been awarded the Best District Principal Award (2015) conferred by Science Olympiad Foundation for exemplary performance by Bronsonians in the Science Olympiad. Dr. Dutta has been awarded Educational Leadership Award 2010 by the

Educational Leadership International Roundtable Conference, Lucknow, on 4th August last year. He has also been conferred the 2nd North East Excellence Award in the large entrepreneur category by the Indian Chamber of Commerce for contribution in the field of education. As he loves to spend time with children and to guide them properly, he spends most of his time in the school. “The parents just admit them to the school and pay the fees but it is my responsibility to look after them. If anything goes wrong I will be blamed. Therefore, I keep an eye on each and every student. My wife says that people have only one or two kids but I have 500 kids! This is a great feeling. A coffee table book will also be published by an institute of Bangalore where 20 schools have been selected for the new millennium. MBRS is the only school from the northeast to be selected to feature in this prestigious book,” said Dutta. Both the educational institutions have been a great base of education for the students as MBRS grooms the students till Class XII after which they get the opportunity to take coaching in the Akash institute to crack medical and engineering entrance exams.

juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Buzz

GPLUS NEWS

City bikers “Bullet” over Khardung La pass Get your motor runnin’, Head out on the highway, Lookin’ for adventure, And whatever comes our way... x loeppenwolf, si be wild” by Sth, Ladakh. Devajit to n or “B om d Sated towards Le erant words fr Like the exub to the highway and head rup Pathak, Sujit Kakati anin their A ok , ld to al or w ps cal mad ca Chandra Das, Anuj Paliw t motorable road of the ay appear, Saikia, Dipak Bhuyan rode on the highes ss. As adventurous as it mbreathtakPa as a om c de ’ gl ri D un e rd th tyakee es. Expressing any means yssey atop Kha Himalayan od with its share of challengid, “It is not an easy ride by ove in the es ab sa m feet and Bhuyan the ride co y depends spiring D’com udes of 13,000 ing and awe-inrts of the road are at altitmiles one can cover in a daay enroute. st pa of n t r ca os be e m m on nu since ke ride to the few places addition, the Himalayas. In d weather conditions and periences on our motorbi ex an r on the road the six of us recall ou lives.” This is where we call it the “ride of our Ladakh which

The 500cc S journey began ta terrain ndard Royal from Manali w E o steep slo f the Himalay nfield bikes w hen the team h a gotiated pes, hair-pin c s. For the nex ich were their of six got hold u then de and manoeuvr rves and mud t 11 days they slated vehicles of the sturdy scended dy patc rode th e on the v d the cli h and Key r long. into the Chand mb to the 13,0 es. The next da ough rough te aried rrain, y in Ma 51 feet h ra valley na ig passing through h Rohtang Pas li they nes. Khoksa r and on The road to Tand i am long the te ight at Keyreen landscape n e th g g din After spen ave behind the lush adakh. The jourle hL , to ic h p u w e d re ap in curves gea nsc s veral hairp stark moo on to the em negotiating se aterfalls and stream th ,w ay es w k e la th l ney had al n o e pass rough sm passing th second high altitud e route in their mape Th e . th et fe to 0 0 ibed by th on a - at 16,5 h h, as descr Baralach L archu to Leh whic e through three hig a S was from a roller coaster rid 6,616 feet), Nakee L criders, was ses, Lachlung La (1 7,480 feet), the se (1 as p a L e d g n tu ti la al the world. et) and Tag (15,547 fe t motorable pass in es h ig ond h

Afte in the w r a day in Leh descend orld - Khardu city, the team h seventh ed to the dram ng La - at 18,3 eaded toward s a day of r 8 ide befo tically differen 0 feet. From the highest m o K t landsc re Thois ape of thhardung La p torable pass e. ass, e Nubra valley e the ride nding th e

La pass again the ride through the Khardung On the eighth day they retraced on the highway in the form of a landslide but them even as a huge hurdle awaited e to their rescue. They der Roads Organization cam est motorable pass the Indian Army and the Bor high d thir g Tso Lake through the continued further to Pangon eafter opened up the ther ch whi feet 86 17,5 at pass in the world-- the Chang La . magical plains of Changthang

The following morning saw a ride along the Pangong Lake on to Leh where the journey ended.

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Telltale stuff in Dr. Prakritish Bora’s cell phone? Rahul Chanda

City’s top paediatrician arrested on charges of assaulting lady colleague; according to police sources, the arrest was consequent to an incident occurring in International Hospital on 18th July Recently a high profile case attracted a lot of attention when a renowned city-based paediatrician, Dr. Prakritish Bora, who practices in International Hospital and Excel Centre, was arrested by Panbazar Police on 20th July in an assault case filed by one of his lady colleagues. According to police sources, two cases were filed in Panbazar Police Station by both Dr. Soma Dhar and Bora, but it appears that Bora was arrested from Soma’s residence located at SS Road, Lakhtokia. What exactly happened and why did Bora visit Soma’s house? Why was Bora detained by Soma and her close family members in her house? G Plus tries to explore the situation.

The incident Panbazar police sources narrated the incident which took place on 20th July 2016. The police source said that at around 9.30 am Dr. Soma Dhar called the police and informed that Dr. Prakritish Bora had entered her house and was creating a nuisance. She informed the police that she and her family members had detained Bora in her house. The police reached the spot and brought Bora and his two associates - Rajiv Baruah, driver and Bijoy Das, attendant - who were waiting below the building. Soma then reached the police station and filed an FIR. Police registered a case (case number -301/16 under section 448/427/352/354/294/506/34 of IPC). The police arrested the three but only two were forwarded to the court as Bora complained of ill health and is under medication now. Rajiv and Bijoy were sent to judicial custody. Police sources said that Dr. Bora also filed an FIR and another cross case was registered in the police station (case number – 3012/16 under section 147/ 294/325/ IPC). But what actually happened inside Dr. Soma’s house?

the charge that she had taken any kind of mobile phone from Bora’s cabin. Soma told the police that she had gone to his cabin to submit her resignation but he was behaving very awkwardly. He had made her wait outside his cabin for a long time and later behaved very rudely. The police source said that both the parties did not state the exact reason for the quarrel but Bora said that he was manhandled by Soma and her husband and he even received an injury in his eyes. So the incident on 18th July led to the incident which took place on 20th July.

The silence

The story According to police sources, Bora told the police that he had gone to Soma’s house to collect his mobile phone which Soma along with her husband Amit Dhar had taken from his office cabin at International Hospital. Meanwhile, police also said that Soma denied such claims of Prakritish and said she never took away any mobile phone from his office. Panbazar police sources said that they are still investigating the case to find the truth. Meanwhile, a close associate of Bora, talking to G Plus under conditions of anonymity, said that on 18th July, a case was registered in Dispur police station by Bora with regard to the same mobile phone. Contacting the sources in Dispur police station, it came to light that on 18th July an incident had occurred in International Hospital. The source said that Dr. Prakritish Bora had filed a case on 18th July complaining that Dr. Soma Dhar and her husband had come to his cabin in International Hospital on the same day, misbehaved with him and also forcibly took a mobile phone away from him. The Dispur police then went to Dr. Soma’s house searching for the mobile phone but failed to find the instrument there. Later, Soma was summoned to Dispur police station where she rubbished

Meanwhile the International Hospital officials did not want to comment anything on the incident and many in the hospital expressed total ignorance about the high profile case. Dr. Bora is a renowned and much respected doctor in Guwahati and Dr. Soma Dhar was working in the hospital as a junior paediatrician under Dr. Bora, according to hospital sources. The hospital sources also said that it never seemed like both of them could ever engage in a quarrel, leave alone assault, as both are socially very well behaved and decent. But according to the source at Dispur police station Dr. Bora had apparently said that Dr. Soma used to call him and disturb him quite often and the records are in the mobile which Soma and her husband had taken away from his cabin. Both the doctors are tight lipped. G Plus tried to contact Dr. Soma but she was not available. But what exactly was in the mobile is the major question that the police need to find the answer to. Further, was the first complaint filed by Dr. Bora genuine or not? Was there any other angle to the incident? Else why had the lady doctor gone to Bora’s room with her husband? Also why did Dr. Bora go to Soma’s house to fetch his mobile phone when he had already filed a case with the police and the police was investigating the matter? The mobile phone might solve the mystery but the incident proves that even educated people like doctors can sometimes behave weirdly.

In The News

State farmers to be given identity cards Police arrests top city-based paediatrician in assault case Dr. Prakritish Bora is under medication whereas two of his associates have been sent to judicial custody Bora was detained in Dr. Soma Dhar’s house and thereafter she complained to the police Interestingly it is reported that before the incident Bora had already filed a case at Dispur police station

Atul Bora, State Agricultural Minister, announced during the Assembly that for the first time the farmers of Assam would be provided with identity cards, to ensure that the farmers get benefited from the Govt funded schemes. Bora further said that the newly formed State Government had already introduced soil health cards and those were being distributed to the farmers. Emphasizing upon the issue, the Minister said that the BJP Government will do its best to accelerate the quality and quantity of every sector. On another note, Bora also informed that the State has also exported 79,248.59 quintal rice to its neighbouring States during 2015-16.

Centre plans to set up 22 ITIs in NE

According to Bora’s complaint Soma and her husband manhandled him in his International Hospital cabin, assaulted him and took his mobile After Bora’s arrest he said that he had gone to Soma’s house to fetch his mobile phone Police has not yet recovered the mobile phone which might answer many questions Meanwhile both are tight-lipped about the cause of the conflict Dr. Soma was working as a junior paediatrician under Bora According to police sources, Bora complained that Soma used to call him and disturb him and this was recorded in the mobile phone

rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

Union Government is mulling to set up 22 new industrial training institutes (ITIs) in the North Eastern region. “Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has formulated a scheme titled ‘Enhancing skill development infrastructure in NE states and Sikkim’ to set up 22 new ITIs in the North Eastern region,” said, Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Rajiv Pratap Rudy in a written reply to the Lok Sabha. Rudy further informed that out of 22 new ITIs, five have been allocated to the State of Assam, ‘Arunachal Pradesh will have 4 ITIs, Tripura and Mizoram will have 3, Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya will have 2 each and Sikkim will have 1 ITI.’ The costs of the establishment of the ITIs have also been defined. According to estimates, establishment of one ITI costs Rs 950 lakh, out of which Rs 855 lakh would be funded by the Centre, while the rest Rs 95 lakh would be provided by the State.

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Ward Watch

GPLUS NEWS

GMDA is not cooperating with GMC to solve this issue

WARD NO

Concentrated area: AT Road (Police Reserve), Ful Gali Ward Number : 10 Sub Division : 10 (A) Councillor : Mrigen Sarania Phone Number : 98640 43462 Area Sabha Member : Tarik Hussain Phone number : 9864413000

Adib zamali/G Plus

Population : 32,000(approx.) Problem: Water Leakage, Street Lights, Blocked Drains and Garbage Cleaning

Issues: Pot holes, leaking water pipes, absence of street lights, blocked drainage, traffic jams, irregular parking. The famous AT Road (Assam Trunk Road), which is known as the hub of automobile parts and accessories in Guwahati, is a very important commercial area that witnesses a huge convergence of people during business hours. Being one of the premier business hubs of the city, the area remains busy with all kinds of vehicles commuting through the area besides having enormous foot fall of traders and customers. With irregular and haphazard parking of vehicles (mostly two-wheelers) on both sides of the road, traffic remains mostly congested with handcarts, rickshaws and motorized vehicles commuting through the area. The traffic situation at the starting point of AT Road in front of the Police Reserve is perhaps the worst in the city as irregular parking and heavy traffic movement remain relentless through the entire day. Adding to the cacophony is a huge pothole in front of the Axis Bank off Police Reserve that precipitates most accidents here. “It has been years that we are seeing this pothole in front of the Axis Bank. PWD men arrive now and then to basically do a temporary cosmetic job on the pothole and after the rains, the pothole reappears” said a local shopkeeper. “This pothole has caused a lot of accidents. Recently, on 18th May last, a black Pulsar met with

a disastrous accident because of this pothole. The biker received serious head injuries and I immediately called 108 and dispatched him in the ambulance,” said Arshad Basit, a local resident and an office-holder at Assam Bikers. “The main issue is that beneath the pothole there is a GMC water pipeline which keeps leaking and no matter how many times the PWD reconstructs this pothole, it results in the same situation after a few days. GMC should first fix this water leakage. PWD should construct the road thereafter. I personally stopped the PWD from constructing the road. I said that GMC should first fix this leakage due to which a PWD engineer abused and threatened me,” said a local resident. J Ali Road, in the same area, is also in an insufferable condition. GMC dustbins placed at the head of the road are not cleaned even until 1 PM despite the presence of the City Police Reserve right in the area. It is rather surprising that despite the presence of such an important police junction in the area, minimum presence of traffic cops can be seen to control the traffic and check on the irregular parking. Adjacent to J Ali Road is Paltan Pukhuri lane which is currently going through its worst phase

perhaps. The entire area is a clear example of improper planning and randomly messy construction of shops and houses. The drainage system is entirely blocked and people constructing shops over drains can be clearly seen. Food outlets constructed over the drains really add up to health issues in the area. The area is basically crammed with shops catering to TV and music system repairing.

“Just 30 minutes of a heavy shower and the entire lane and sub-lanes get flooded. There is no presence of street lights in the entire lane. Open drains and breeding of mosquitoes is a threat to our health. I personally have given away a few inches of my plot to GMC so that the drains can be covered. In the sub-lanes it can be seen that people have started land grabbing to expand their respective

Councilor’s Say With the councilor being unavailable, the Area Sabha Member, Tarik Hussain spoke on his behalf and here is what he had to say. On the pipe leakage: “The leakage of water pipe is there but the main issue is it is because of the ongoing GMDA projects in the city that our engineers have been unable to fix the issue. GMDA is not cooperating with GMC to solve this issue and because of this PWD is not being able to construct the road.” On the Paltan pukhuripaar issue: “I have repeatedly requested our former GMC Commissioner to look into the matter but every time I return disappointed. Lack of funds and other excuses is what I get in reply and this process is repeated every time. I spoke with our Ward Councilor, Mrigen Sarania, who is also the mayor and he assured me that in upcoming days these issues would be looked into. It was very unfortunate that last month in Lakhtokia, during the month of Ramzan, most areas were not having streetlights. Since the last 3 months, I have called the electricity department more than 50 times but every time they give the excuse of not having enough engineers and employees.” On the Phoolgali issue: “It is the NGO which has been assigned to collect the garbage. The problem is that the NGO collects the garbage and deposits the same at the designated dumping ground, but as the flower vendors keeps throwing their garbage in day broad light it is not possible to keep the road clean throughout the day.”

plots. We too dream of having proper and smooth roads but it seems the dream will remain even with the arrival of this new government. It is very unfortunate that the ward councillor is our new Mayor Mrigen Sarania himself but it still seems that we will have to wait longer before our plight is noticed,” said Brijesh Roy, a veteran businessman. Under the same ward is Phool Gali in Fancy Bazar, which is wellknown as the city’s premier flower market. However, nowadays it is the stink of the lane emanating from piled up garbage that is lending notoriety to the lane. As the road is considered to be the hub of the flower business of the city, thousands of garlands arrive early every morning in the market leading to heavy sales during the entire day and therefore, the build-up of a huge collection of wet garbage. Moreover, the shopkeepers urinating in the area adds to the stink and pedestrians passing by are forced to cover their nose to thwart off the stench. “I somehow cross the route covering my nose, as I work in a cosmetic shop at Kamarpatty and board my bus from Fancy Bazar,” said Sunita Deka. “It is the duty of the GMC to clean the garbage. Our business does create this garbage although we do try to keep it minimal,” said a local florist defensively.

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Over 2800 drunken driving cases registered since January

KALYAN DEB

Drunken Driving Cases: Number of cases registered till June 2016 - 2850

Number of cases found during special drives - 80 to 100 Permissible limit of consuming alcohol - 30 mgbl

Christian Basti, Khanapara, Bharalumukh, Maligaon, Cycle Factory, Zoo Road, Jalukbari are some of the spots that are regularly monitored by police officials. “We carry out drives on a regular basis at a few junctions that witness most drunk-driving cases. There are around seven spots where we carry out such drives. Moreover, we also carry out special drives where several junctions are monitored at the same time,” mentioned a senior police

After successful screening at the March du Film at Festival de Cannes in May this year, Dibrugarh-based filmmaker Chow Partha Borgohain’s feature film ‘1962 My Country Land’ will be screening at the Brahmaputra

official. “On regular drives the numbers of cases reach up to 30 from a single junction whereas during special drives the figure reaches up to 100. There are several spots in the city where people consume alcohol out in the open and take to driving. Thus the junctions intersect with the spot scrutinized by us. It is mostly among the youth that such incidents are found,” the official informed.

The drinking age in the states of Chandigarh, Haryana, Delhi, Punjab and Meghalaya is 25 whereas it is mere 18 in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim, Puducherry, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh and Goa Sale of alcohol is banned in Nagaland apart from the city of Dimapur and in the states of Manipur, Lakshadweep and Gujrat. Bihar was recently added to the list In 2014 a seventeen year prohibition was lifted from Mizoram

‘1962: My Country Land’ to premiere at Brahmaputra Valley Film Festival Valley Film Festival at 6:25 pm on Saturday. Written, Cinematographed and Directed by Chow Partha Borgohain, ‘1962 My Country Land’ is an English feature film based on the 1962 Indo-

City

GMCH alone witnesses a minimum of 150 drunken driving related accidents a month Paltan Bazaar, Guwahati Club Rotary, Ganeshguri, Christian Basti, Khanapara, Bharalumukh, Maligaon, Cycle Factory, Zoo Road, Jalukbari are some of the spots that are regularly monitored by the police Each police station has a breathalyser along with four inbuilt breathalysers in four interceptors

Number of cases found on daily basis - 20 to 25

Drinking may be fun, but reckless behaviour in inebriated condition can have consequences. Drunk driving is one of the most serious offences as one not only risks one’s own life but also that of others in the car and those who are out on the road and in other vehicles. In a city that witnesses a minimum of 150 drunken driving related accidents a month, recorded by Gauhati Medical College & Hospital (GMCH) alone, its traffic police have to make do within their limitations such as limited number of breathalysers to rein in offenders. For those who love to take a swig and drive around, the police crackdown on drunk driving hardly seems a deterrent. But at the same time, police crackdown at regular intervals with checkpoints that are set up at several locations of the city. Earlier this year the district transport office had decided to suspend the licences of people found driving in an inebriated state. The practice, which follows Supreme Court guidelines, was implemented during the 27th Road Safety Week. Areas such as Paltan Bazaar, Guwahati Club Rotary, Ganeshguri,

Sino war. Talking about the film, Borgohain said, “We are happy to receive some good response on the film at Cannes. Now, screening the film at the Brahmaputra Valley Film Festival at Guwahati would bring us closer to our regional audience.” The film, shot mostly in Arunachal Pradesh, is the first home production of Living Dreams Productions, headed by Marbom Mai. She said that, “one of the goal of the company is to promote northeast India for

Breathalysers are a major addition to the police force which helps in monitoring incidents of drunken driving. Each police station has a breathalyser along with four in-built breathalysers in four interceptors. Even the presence of such a tool has not helped in bringing down the number of drunken driving. On several occasions it is found that the police merely sniff the breath off the people’s mouth in order to detect if the vehicle driver is under the influence of alcohol. “Sniffing is not a major problem but during major drivers we have to check several people and using the breathalyser on each of them is time consuming. We carry out two phases of the breathalyser test. In the first phase the police smell the breath of the vehicle driver and if presence of alcohol is suspected then the person is asked to blow into the breathalyser,” the police official informed. Under Section 185 (a) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, any person under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving or attempting to drive a vehicle with an alcohol level exceeding 30 mg per 100 ml of blood (30 mgbl) detected by the breathalyser, shall be punished film tourism locations and introduce filmmakers to great avenues and serenity of northeast India.” Elaborating on the world-wide release of ‘1962: My Country Land’, Marbom Mai said, “At present we are contemplating on the release dates, as of now our primary focus is to explore more film festival circuits in India and abroad. We are planning to screen the film in various festivals before we move for a commercial release.” Starring Aham Sharma, Lhakpa

Under Section 185 (a) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, any person under the influence of alcohol level exceeding 30 mg per 100 ml of blood (30 mgbl) shall be punished for the first offence with imprisonment for a term which may extend up to six months or a fine up to Rs. 2,000, or both.

for the first offence with imprisonment for a term which may extend up to six months or a fine up to Rs. 2,000, or both. On 1st March 2012, the union cabinet approved proposed changes to the Motor Vehicle Act. Higher penalties were introduced, including fines from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 10,000 and imprisonment from 6 months to 4 years. Meanwhile, sources in the police said that unless a person commits a crime after consuming alcohol it is not an offence and therefore they are not fined while driving but they are sent to court and a case is registered against them. kalyan.deb@g-plus.in

Lepcha, Daniel Shin Han and Ketholeno Kense in lead roles, the film showcases the struggle and life of the main characters during the approaching war and how they were able to believe – and not believe – each other. Produced by Marbom Mai, the film was shot in parts of picturesque Tawang and Mechuka in Arunachal Pradesh. Guru Rewben Mashangva was the music composer of the film where he collaborated with Shankar Shankini.

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

G Talk

RAHA’s wishful AIIMS D

“AIIMS should be set up at Raha in central Assam viewing all aspects of north-eastern states. I will try my best to do it as a central minister,” said newly appointed central minister, Rajen Gohain, countering the allotment of the plot at Changsari in Kamrup Rural. Now is this just rhetoric to please the ears of his constituency or does it display sheer deficiency of perception? I hate being judgmental, especially in this column, but Gohain and his lot leave me with no other choice. What is AIIMS? Is it just the bloomin’ building containing wards, rooms, diagnosis gadgets and ICUs? Or is it the human resources (popularly called doctors, more affectionately specialists and nurses) that it brings to the patient consulting rooms and operating tables? Let’s take the case of a specialist who is based in AIIMS, Delhi. He is too good a doc and is required on the same day to be in Guwahati, Patna and Delhi to conduct surgeries failing which patients might die. He takes the early morning flight out of Delhi, lands in Guwahati, travels a shade under half an hour to Changsari, performs his work and by noon moves out to Patna. Patna is done and dusted by 5 pm and he returns to Delhi to complete any pending work there by 11 pm so that he can tackle a similar routine the next day. Where does this punishing schedule of this specialist leave Raha? Does any specialist worth his salt have the luxury of a 4-hour (to and fro) drive in the verdant Brahmaputra Valley? No! End of argument. The other gentleman batting for Raha for reasons unknown to anyone

is the BJP MP from Tezpur, Ram Prasad Sharma and he props up his opinion with the following arguments: The Changsari plot is not suitable because it is a village grazing reserve, marshy and would incur heavy expenses in earth-filling. With a cement factory and a coke industry, there is pollution. Well Sir, it is AIIMS coming, not any Tom, Dick or Harry. The above are hardly problems. The underground water at Changsari contains arsenic. Sir, ever heard of ultra-filtration, reverse osmosis, etc? Water can be cleaned up. The plot of land at Changsari is also prone to heavy floods and erosion by the Brahmaputra River. Dyke it up Sir, and if the Brahmaputra is so close, why use arsenic water at all? The traffic congestion in the area and the vehicular sound pollution will not be conducive to a healthy and pollution-free environment. Yes, AIIMS, Delhi may also please be shifted to Raha for the same reasons. Immediately! Every AIIMS located at Delhi, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Jodhpur, Patna, Raipur and Rishikesh are situated within a distance of 35 kms of an airport. This is why the top specialists work with AIIMS. And when it comes to Gohain “viewing all aspects of north-eastern states,” Changsari by flight is the closest. End of argument again! Swapnil Bharali Executive Editor

Truck has no religion SIDHARTH BEDI VARMA

Bastille Day, the French National Day, is the celebration of the French Revolution. While this memorable day calls for celebration, this fete became a horrific memory for many last week. With a truck driving over and killing 84 people, injuring hundreds and scarring the entire country, this attack is a statement as to how violence does not only come from guns and weapons and the celebration of victory is what is targeted every time. The truck driver has been identified as Mohamed Lahouaiej Bouhel and that the attacks were planned for over months. This however is not being identified as a terrorist attack as no terror outfit has claimed responsibility for the attacks. This is an act of sheer violence. Although the attack may have been planned in a way that it looked like religion played a part in it, I would agree with Barack Obama who said “We cannot let ourselves be divided by religion because that is exactly what the terrorists would want.” People learnt to be violent long before the advent of guns. We blame ‘brainwashing’ as to how terrorists are bred and

recruited, but we resorted to violence as a form of communication long before terror outfits were formed, even before the Palaeolithic age. We were the ones who gave ideologies to others and called it the ‘wrong way’ when things did not go according to our will, the possible retaliation to which came in the form of violence. Humans have inherited violence. They tried to implement gun control, but it backfired on the US and led to more shootouts and loss of innocent lives, they tried banning beef which was met with violent protests. We consider ourselves so holy that in our quest for establishing a ‘one size fits all’ utopia, we choose to ignore the violence that we propagate. So how do we go about addressing this? We start at home; we start by revising our own values, our own education and our own beliefs. Before we thrust it down others, we must think whether it would be unreasonable for others, would we bend to someone else’s will or would we retaliate violently. The day we learn to walk in someone else’s shoes, humanity will not just have changed, but evolved.

Assamese cinema:

govt policy vs sheer quality In the absence of any transparency or data, what one can gather from news reports and discussions on the current pathetic condition of the Assamese film industry is that there are four basic reasons behind the downfall of the industry: 1) decreasing numbers of viewers, 2) decreasing cinema exhibiting facilities as more and more cinema halls are being shut down, 3) severe dearth of quality films produced that can draw an audience and 4) deficient government support. Also, there appears to be three groups of stakeholders viz. the producers and directors, the distributors and hall owners and the government. All the initiatives, all the policy decisions and all the comments have come mainly from these three groups so far. As we understand, the steps taken so far for ‘reviving’ the Assamese film industry are centered on finding ways and means to provide profit to the stakeholders in the film industry. It is as if people do not come to watch Assamese films because the producers, directors, distributors and hall owners are not getting enough profit! There are a meager 52 cinema halls (two of which are reportedly closing down soon) catering to a population of more than 3 crores in the state and the government duly taxes them. Now, let us do a small bit of arithmetic. 52 halls with an average seating capacity of 150 with an average price of Rs. 150 per seat per show can earn the industry an amount of Rs. 11,70,000 per show if the halls are fully booked. This essentially means that the hall owners’ gross earning is Rs. 3,27,60,000/- per week for Hindi/ English blockbuster movies taking the average number of shows per day as 4. Although we have no idea what the actual earning is, it is no wonder that the government taxes them! So what is the quantum of money that these hall owners stand to lose if they exhibit Assamese movies for one show a day for one week? It would be

‘A Daniel has come….’

Rs. 81,90,000/- provided all seats in all shows remain vacant. The hall owners tend to opine that they cannot afford such loss and that is why the quality of

Jayanta Kr. Sarma

Assamese cinema should improve. According to news reports, Rs. 40 of the ticket price goes to hall owners directly covering charges for the seat, air-conditioning, sound system, etc. That effectively means that the 52 hall owners recover Rs. 11,70,000 per show for the facilities provided. That would be a whooping Rs. 170.82 crores per year for the 52 hall owners or Rs. 3,28,50,000/- per hall-owners per year. Do we actually need that kind of money to provide the facilities in a hall? Or is it pure profit maximization? The directors and producers of Assamese films want some kind of government support and incentives – be it cheap finance, waiver on taxes or in the form of subsidies. Irrespective of regionalist whimpering and sentimental call for preservation of Assamese culture, one should understand that regional films are part of the Indian entertainment business which is growing at the most impressive break-neck speed of 15% to 18% a year. This is the best of times for the industry as more and more people are entering the business. Amid this growth, if one cannot make a quality product and sell it, one loses the right to blame others. Regional filmmaking is not a social service as some people are trying to project it as

where taxpayers’ money should go into individual pockets. The situation is patently ridiculous – for the most important element of the industry, the audience, is nowhere in the scene. Did anybody ever bother to understand what the viewers want? Did anybody ever make a survey to find out why people are shunning Assamese cinema? Within the same system, isn’t it imperative to wonder why Ramdhenu recovered its money while other films could not? Even if you make a good film, can you recover your money when there are only 52 halls in which you can exhibit your movie? Hall owners say the government tax is high and so the price of the tickets is high. The price of the tickets is high, so the people do not watch Assamese movies. Isn’t it utter foolishness to believe in this? Will you, as audience, settle for a movie if it is completely inadequate in providing you what you look for in it, i.e. entertainment, even if the price of its tickets is very low? Do we decide on watching a movie considering the price of its tickets or do we watch it because of its quality? Is the film market such that we settle for the cheapest of the products? Does selection of a movie to watch goes through a tendering process at home where after the lowest priced ticket get our nod? Certainly not! What will it take for one to understand that film viewers in Assam have today abandoned the Assamese film industry? Unless you can give them their money’s worth, the viewers are not going to come; they have alternatives now. Throwing tantrums like, “I will never ever produce a film as Assamese people did not come to watch my last film,” will not arm twist people into a path of emotional blackmail to watch films that can neither entertain nor inspire. The writer is an avid movie watcher, movie analyst and a life member of Guwahati Cine Club.

Letter to the Editor

During my school days in Class X syllabus, yours truly had the privilege of going through Shakespeare’s novel called ‘Merchant of Venice’ in English textbook. In that particular novel, there was a popular dialogue delivered by Shylock, the villain, which goes like “A Daniel has come to the judgment.” Now this same piece of dialogue is very relevant in the recent Lodha Committee report in regard to presence of politicians without sporting backgrounds in sports bodies. The Lodha Committee report clearly spells that there are politicians galore in the BCCI committee. Now it is time for us to wait and watch what impact this report has on the composition and functioning of BCCI and its affiliates. Himadri Chekonidhora, GNB Road, Guwahti-1.

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

In Focus

What changes should have Meet Papori Dutta been initiated by the new Government that would indicate growth and prosperity of the region? Beautician/Entrepreneur

It might seem relatively less important an issue to some, but this is closely related to women safety. Streetlights and CCTV cameras are a must on every road and every bylane. Yes it sounds and is costly, but will be really effective in reducing the crime ratwe.

Harshita Nath IT sector is largely lacking. The state is not at all ready to deal with the consequences of a 7-7.8 richter magnitude earthquake. Electricity is there just for the sake of its name. The state is largely without it. Education is going at a supersonic pace towards deterioration, in government schools particularly. Government hospital’s blood banks are not sterile (at least some doctors don’t recommend it). Corruption still exists. In places like Bongaigaon, to get a passport worth the official amount of Rs. 1,500 - Rs. 2000 police verification itself is a flat charge of Rs. 2000. Flood is something we’re all now used to. In some places, it’s an artificial problem rather than a natural disaster. If sewage is ignored like this, we will soon face what Moscow has already faced. So, history will repeat itself. I am running out of space so, no more.

Sohan Basak The new govt is mainly doing development work in the villages. Please don’t get me wrong. Arrey yeh kya baat hui? Even we had voted for a change. The prices of essential commodities, instead of decreasing, are rising day by day. Before elections everyone was relaxed and trusted BJP that this time we we will surely see a change. But then what? Acche din ab tak nahi aye. I understand it takes time to do all work. And make things better which the previous govt had not. But at least kuch toh paribartan dikhaye humein. So that at least the public can feel good that they did not make a mistake with their votes. And especially for the youth. What about jobs? Solve the problem of unemployment. It will automatically develop the country. Those 3 to 4 phases of exams to qualify for a job should be stopped. Sumi Roy First of all let us improve ourselves and not fight over stupid issues such as where the AIIMS is going to be set up. Raha, Jagiroad, Barak, Changsari, etc. etc. Has our stupidity reached such a level? And what about the leaders? They are inciting the people on. Why is it being highlighted so much by the media? Don’t they have any other news which is constructive? Is it a paan shop that it will be set up everywhere where it is demanded? I don’t know but seeing all these I feel we deserve to remain backward. We deserve to run to AIIMS n Apollo in other states for the simplest of operations and treatment. We deserve to run to other states for jobs. We deserve to keep on mulling that sorkare a ki korise? Prokhakhone ki korise? No, we don’t deserve to say that because when such simple things can’t be understood by the masses then we have no right to blame the government. We deserve to stay like this and watch projects like these to go away to some other place. And when we are done then we can keep on complaining Asomot bijulee nai, irrigation nai, medical facilities nai, call for a few more bandhs to agitate and protest and expect everything to get solved.

Mridul Das I agree traffic system needs urgent reformation! Especially city buses and trekkers need to be controlled. Street lights need to be installed. Parking places need to be allocated.

Partha Khargharia Traffic rules need to be followed and the roads need repairs as well.

Gurpreet Sharma

It takes pleasure and a lot of interest in beauty, art and cosmetics to become a beautician but apart from that Papori Dutta had the urge to do more with the skills that she has. This not only led her to become a skilled beautician but also a prominent entrepreneur. Born on 5th April to father Kishori Mohan Pathak who is a renowned writer and mother Padmini Pathak, Papori had an ideal childhood full of playfulness, mischief and love and affection of parents. Papori pursued her education from Holy Child School, Guwahati and went on to attain a bachelorette in Library Science. Meanwhile, the urge to do something on her own gave her the inspiration and thus led her to start her own beauty salon chain, Darpan. With five outlets around the city, Darpan is one of the leading and wellknown beauty salon brands of Guwahati. The bud that showed promise has indeed bloomed well. Papori started pursuing her aspirations with her first outlet at Rajgarh Road in 2003. However, it took her a while to develop and perfect the set of skills required to have a career in cosmetology. Papori has been trained at Vidal Sassoon, London, Toni & Guy in Hong Kong and Heading Out Academy in Melbourne. She is also a trained nail artist for which she underwent training in Nail Pro, Delhi. Today, Darpan has five outlets around the city and a makeup and nail art studio. Darpan also provides training on various aspects of cosmetology keeping abreast with the latest trends. “Back when we started, the scenario was not as developed as it is today. There were very few who chose to take up the profession of a beautician and we were one of the first to come up with a beauty salon in an organised way. However, coming up with a chain of salons was my husband’s idea and so we started with three salons and eventually came up with the other outlets,” Papori mentioned during a conversation with G Plus. Since 2003, Papori has come a long way with Darpan consolidating itself as a major brand. However, the beautician’s aspirations are not just limited to her five outlets. In 2006, Papori came up with the idea of providing a platform to married women to showcase their beauty and talent

and she started a beauty pageant titled Darpan Mrs. India North-East. “Although I have several college-going clients, most of my clients are married women and Darpan Mrs. India North-East was introduced with an idea of providing a platform where they can explore their other aptitudes. I have seen ladies who get buried under their responsibilities after marriage and forget to care for themselves in the process. Thus, the beauty pageant provided an escape route to another world that is enthralling,” Papori asserted. The beauty pageant was held for the sixth time in city earlier this year. The pageant receives applications from all over the northeast from which 18 women are shortlisted as participants. With the passage of time and the pageant gaining popularity the number of applicants is rapidly increasing every year. But misfortune does hit the bestregulated families and a similar mishap occurred with Papori. Recently, the Ganeshguri outlet of Darpan was burnt to ashes due to an electrical short circuit. Property worth Rs. 20 lakhs was damaged in the fire. “It was an upsetting incident as every bit of the salon was burnt and not a single instrument could be used further. Anyway, it was meant to happen and I had to face this boldly as living in the past will not help and I prefer to erase it from my memory and move forward,” stated the beautician-cum-entrepreneur. Moreover, Papori conveyed her plans to come up with salons for men by next year. “All these years, I had been holding myself back from exploring the other sides of the business. But now I have the confidence with the 13 years of experience behind me. I have made up my mind to come up with salons for men,” Papori added. Besides her profession, Papori enjoys travelling and the flamboyant city life of Guwahati. However, she prefers her holidays to be fruitful alongside the fun and so she visits different veteran beauticians and their studios in order to gather as much knowledge as she can. Papori got married to Rajiv Dutta, founder of Epitome Group, in 2001 and is blessed with two children Utkarsh and Rodasi Dutta.

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Lifestyle

VAASTU SHASTRA VAASTU ASPECTS OF

NOONMATI

5 TIPS

TO SPEED UP YOUR PC The era of going digital has been marred by two things. First is a slow internet connection and second is a slow PC. Although we can address the first by addressing some infrastructural constraints, the latter can be done sitting at home. You want the know-how, so here’s how: RESTART YOUR COMPUTER REGULARLY Sometimes this is the easiest solution. Restarting your computer at least once a week does wonders for your system. It flushes out the RAM and ends processes and services that did not close out gracefully. DECLUTTER YOUR DESKTOP This is for all you lazy ones out there who save everything to the desktop. Cleaning up your Desktop can help speed things up. If you have too many files on your Desktop, it uses lots of operating memory thus making the system slower.

SYSTEM FILE CHECKER System program files control all activities in Windows, including applications. These can be corrupted or changed by viruses, new software and other problems. This could cause an unstable Windows operating system. Try using a System File Checker (SFC) program scans system files and swaps out wrong or corrupt files with correct Microsoft files. This could fix a computer that has been running erratically. Using the SFC is a simple process. Just click the Start button. Then click “Run” and type in Sfc / scannow and click OK. UNINSTALL UNUSED PROGRAMS Most of the time, we have applications we install that is used once and then totally forgotten about. These programs still occupy hard drive space and may even have temporary files and folders installed. They could even be running in the background, sucking out memory and slowing down your PC. DEFRAGMENT YOUR DRIVES Another thing that could be slowing you down is a fragmented hard disk. This will make your system slower by taking more time to find the resources that it needs. Defragmenting your hard disk makes it more efficient as it rearranges the data in the system.

This is a more or less rectangular area from Bamunimaidam to Guwahati Refinery. While the southern border is demarcated by the railway track, the north side has the extension of the Barnachal hills. We have already discussed the Vaastu of the Guwahati Refinery in the 20th February issue of G-Plus. Beyond Sector 3 of Guwahati Refinery lies the India Carbon Limited factory which is basically the extreme eastern border of Noonmati. The main entrance to the India Carbon campus is from southern southwest and the main factory is located at east and southeast. This is one of the reasons why this factory could not do well despite having a good supply of raw materials. Despite running since 1962, the company is still showing losses. However, the big Radheshyam Temple at its southwest has provided some protection for the owners of this organization.

Assam Jatiya Vidyalaya is situated in the southwest part of Noonmati on the southern side of Maniram Dewan Road. Its main entrance is from the northern northeast. It has a big L-shaped school building at south and west. There is a playground at north. This school has been doing very well among vernacular medium schools of Assam. The Vandana cinema hall is a landmark of Noonmati which is functioning since the early 1970s. It has two entrances - one from central north and one from northern northeast. There is an open area at north which is used for car parking. The only defect of the hall is that it also has an open area at west which has drained its profits. The residential areas of Noonmati are mostly on the northern side of the Maniram Dewan Road which is slightly higher than the road. The residents must be very careful in constructing their houses as far as Vaastu is concerned. They must have their main gates at central east or northeast, central west or western northwest only. The bore-wells must be placed at northeast, north or east. The eastern and south-eastern parts of Noonmati are bisected by roads going 45 degrees northeast and 35 degrees southeast. This has made these areas highly unstable. Lot of anti-social activities are reported in these areas. Being close to the railway tracks, the south-eastern area has a lot of slums. The eastern part and the roadside areas are fully commercial. There is a big Ganesh Mandir at the north-western part of Noonmati. This temple is facing east with a lot of open space at east. Hundreds of devotees throng this temple regularly. It is almost Vaastu perfect. Hemanta Kumar Sarmah

Engineer, Businessman, Advanced Pranic Healer and Su Jok Acupressure specialist

recipe of the week An Ode To Chocolate Oh creamy chocolate, How you torment me so. So silky and smooth, From head down to toe. Just one bite, Feels like a sin, But tastes like heaven, I can never win. So as usual, I will now devour you, To my heart’s content, To gain a pound or two! CHOCOLATE FUDGE

• • • •

Ingredients

PROCESS

One small pack butter One tin milkmaid Six teaspoons of cocoa Half teaspoon of vanilla

• Put on fire and stir till it comes off the edges. • Oil hands and make round balls and press with fork.

KULKUL RAHMAN Entrepreneur, mother and a passionate cook

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Lifestyle A better

Are you

distracted?

Are you distracted or focussed? Apple shared a great piece of statistics a few months back: their average user unlocks their phones 80 times a day. Other reports state people look at their phones upwards of 130 times a day. Children aged 2-11 watch over 24 hours of TV per week while adults aged 35-49 watch more than 33 hours, according to data from Nielsen that suggests TV time increases the older we get. Recent studies suggest that we’ll spend around 70% of our waking life in front of digital media. That is a lot of time in not doing anything productive. Imagine had this time been used in doing something

productive, something creative, the results would have been much different. That is the difference between average people and legends. And in order to cross this line, one needs to understand what’s holding them back. On an average, humans get distracted every 11 minutes. That’s too soon to lose focus. That’s too short of a time to create masterpieces. The Sistine Chapel wouldn’t have been possible had Michael

LIFE Angelo been distracted so often. We wouldn’t have had amazing paintings from Pablo Picasso, had he been busy playing candy crush most of his time. Here are a few things that will help you improve focus and be less distracted: Switch off all notifications while you’re working. Since, your phone is connected to everything possible on the internet it is quite obvious that it’ll beep every now and then. Schedule some time for watching TV. Stop watching it every time you have nothing to do. Read a book instead. Switch off your phone before you go to sleep. A nice sleep will ultimately help you improve focus. Watching TV or fidgeting with the phone is considered relaxing for most of us but please understand that so much of data keeps our brain active and is not at all relaxing for the brain. Doing nothing is better than watching TV or using the phone. So sit down, relax and exercise your brain’s super power of visualisation.

TIPS TO LIVE FITTER LIVES

Madhur Jain

Madhur Jain is a full time practicing Chartered Accountant, a blogger and a columnist. He loves to read, write and talk about personal development. For more visit his blog at www.maadhurjain.in

Cool Couture NO MORE RAINY WEEKEND BLUES

t has been raining often and many weekend plans have been tossed out of the window at the very thought of the mucky roads. Here are some ideas on how to stay productive and avoid being tucked in your comforter the whole time!

Create:

There is nothing more powerful than creating something that is entirely your own, every inch of it. Write a blog about something you are passionate about or a short story. Paint amazing things that only you can imagine. Just impress yourself.

Invest time in learning something new:

I started learning Spanish by downloading a free app on my phone called Duolingo and practicing for 15 minutes a day. After 2 weeks, I am already 6% proficient in Spanish and love flaunting it. If you really want to learn something cool, you’ll find a smart way to do it.

Pamper your feet:

Make a strong brew of tea and soak your feet in it for about 15 minutes, once it is lukewarm. This eliminates odour and is blissfully soothing. It is even more beneficial if you use antioxidant-rich varieties of tea (think green tea!).

Try photography:

You’ll be surprised by the interesting pictures you are able to click on a rainy day. Weather you capture raindrops (high shutter speed helps) or candid moments of someone rushing towards the shelter of home, I promise the pictures will be interesting, if not breathtakingly beautiful. I like to check out Pintrest for stunning photography ideas.

Bring out old board games:

Weekends are for bonding with friends and family, and nothing tops the old school way of doing that by having a game night. Dig out that old Monopoly set or invest in a new one. The memories you create will be priceless one day.

Pick your key pieces:

Budget for some time on Sunday to plan your outfits for next week. Go through your accessories and clothes to pick out a few key pieces that you must use (no cheating!). Never again will you say that you bought something you loved, but never ended up wearing it. Happy weekend! Meenakshi Talukdar Fashion & lifestyle blogger at www.afravelmovie.com

We know a lot about the opposite ends of life – youth and old age – but we don’t know nearly enough about the long middle years in between. The surprising factor is that people have not taken ageing and middle age seriously at all – we’re the forgotten people. Agedness has been the focus – trying to live longer and surviving the advanced years. But ageing itself has not been the focus. It’s been the domain of people who’ve given us pills and potions; it’s a marketer’s dream. But in terms of science, it’s a black hole. And it’s one of my primary interests. We’ve learned a lot about how muscles repair, how we can prepare prior to exercise, how we can recover afterwards and how we can get maximum benefits from it. But most of that research has begun and ended with either athletes or the very old. So what do we know about those great middle years, once youth has faded but before age actually sets in? Overall, people’s physical ability is declining. So not many can actually be like the person in the ad, and run over the sand with a surfboard. And even if they could they’d be too knackered to actually surf. If we do engage in vigorous or difficult physical activity, we suffer for weeks in all sorts of ways. We’re stuck in a rut where we’re becoming cognitively impaired, losing our marbles slowly, not getting enough sleep, not waking up refreshed, not dealing with the stresses and issues of our lives … and that’s where the fitness and lifestyle industry needs to go, of course. Science needs to give more to

the forgotten middle years of our lives. So what do we know about what happens to our muscles as we age? We know far more about bones than muscles. Bones are important, but really only if you fall over. Muscles are so much more important for so many reasons. They are the “sink” of our nutrients, the engine that burns the stuff that keeps the weight down. You’ve got to have a decent sized motor to suck the petrol to stay lean, and you’ve got to have the physical mass and capability to get up and enjoy life. What we know and what is well established is that far more people are doing sedentary jobs. So there is a whole generation of people who’ve got skinny legs and no backside. So every person who slides their knees under a desk every day is under-muscled. We are a society of under-muscled people. The second thing we know is that we do start to lose muscle, all of us, from our mid-30s. It is a slow, inevitable decline, but the rate of decline is what we can influence and arrest. No, there will be no one breaking world records for the 100 metres or the marathon over the age of 35. But they can definitely compete and be the best they can be. We will discuss about muscle decline arrest, duration of exercise to retain muscle mass and strength and the usage of protein thereof in this same space of the next issue. Kamal Sinha

( HEAD TRAINER- Gold’s Gym Ganeshguri) BSc,ACE-CPT, Rehab master trainer. Lesmills international certified trainer ( Body pump,RPM,Body Combat,Born to move)

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Reviews Cast: Irfan Khan, Jimmy Shergill Director: Nishikant Kamat

adaari’ is raw and real. The mystery in the Nishikant Kamat directorial venture isn’t nail-biting, but Irrfan Khan manages to keep you intrigued Actor Irrfan Khan brings out the anguish of a parent losing his boy to a freak accident marvellously in his latest film, Madaari. In this kidnapping drama, by director Nishikant Kamat, his pain is raw and real, and Khan uses nothing but his eyes to convey a thousand emotions. It’s difficult not to be invested in a character played by an actor with such strong acting skills. Madaari begins with an unwashed, dishevelled Nirmal Kumar (Khan) kidnapping a young boy, Rohan Goswami. This boy, the son of a top political leader in India, holds the key to Kumar getting some attention. He has been wronged and wants justice. The first half of this grim film is dominated by how an

vie Mo view Re

The face-off between a criminal and the corrupt politicians packs a punch. Madaari would have benefited hugely from a 10-minute trim (the songs underlining the fatherson bond were excessive). The film suffers from predictability, and scenes keep on dragging aimlessly, especially the ones showing Nirmal’s past. Things begin to get life in the final portions, but again that’s only due to Irrfan and Dalvi – the execution is amateurish. But in all, Madaari was engaging and touched upon some deep subjects such as corruption, the power of social media and public opinion, with alacrity. Nishikant Kamat had made his mark with hard hitting social dramas, Dombivli Fast and Mumbai Meri Jaan. He digressed from his fave genre, making action flicks like Force and Rocky Handsome or thrillers like Drishyam. With Madaari, he returns to tackling social themes.

Indian civilian, “an ideal voter” as described by Kumar, brings a group of powerful politicians to their knees. It’s clear that Kumar is an amateur criminal, therefore, it’s easy to see why he forges a bond with the young boy, Rohan, played wonderfully by Vishesh Bansal. Their camaraderie isn’t an overnight development and it’s good to see the two play off each other’s energies. The dialogue where the young boy fears being sexually abused is smartly played out. What is disappointing is the unhurried pace of the narrative. As a suspense thriller, Madaari doesn’t afford any startling twists. The mystery isn’t nail-biting, but Khan manages to keep you intrigued. Director Kamath doesn’t utilise heavy-duty action sequences or bombastic dialogues to drive the story forward. He lets the characters play out their emotions. While the second half meanders, the conclusion isn’t a let down.

Rajinikanth delivers everything you expect from him — the classic punch

lines, the style, and plenty of emotion. You may wonder at the logic in some of the scenes, but who cares about that when there’s so much Rajini magic going around? Every time he delivers one of his dialogues, you get chills. The story of Kabali is simple and nothing you haven’t seen before. It’s also clichéd in many aspects. But what drives it is Rajnikanth. And it’s well worth another watch. Though Rajinikanth’s stardom subverts his ability to perform, only a few infallible directors have done justice to the star and the performer both. Even if it’s a triumph for Pa Ranjith to bring back the actor Rajinikanth in Kabali, the film falls short of a hardcore story. While this dialogue aptly captures Rajinikanth’s return to the

Kabali is more of a Ranjith film than Rajini’s. Some of the scenes and characterizations do remind you of the director’s previous film Madras. One should say the screenplay could have been tighter. Usually, when a new director works with a big star like Rajinikanth, they tend to adjust the flow of the film for the hero’s stardom but Ranjith has extracted what he wanted for his script without compromising much. Verdict: Rajinikanth in a different dimension, but Kabali might not work for everyone. Theatres which are known to reverberate for Rajinikanth, seem a lot more silent for Kabali.

PVR Cinemas

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Apsara Cinema Ulubari 0361 2541335 kabali 11.00 AM, 8.00 PM madari 2.00 PM SULTAN 5.00 PM

vie Mo view Re

GOLD Cinema ASTC Complex, Paltan Bazar 9854066166

kabali 11.30 AM, 5.00 PM, 8.45 PM madari 2.30 PM, 8.PM SULTAN 11.00AM, 2.15PM, 5.30 PM

Book:

Artist:

From Zero to One: The Story of Manu

DragonForce

Madari 11.00 AM, 8.15 PM kABALI 2.00 PM SULTAN 5.00 PM

Madari 8.45 PM kABALI 2.20 PM SULTAN 5.05 PM

silver screen as an actor, Lord Rajiniworshipping fans will inevitably miss the star Rajini in Kabali.

Album:

man, Dragonforce’s co-founders and co-shredders, are the band’s through line and heart and soul, with the former serving up highwire circus act-worthy solos and the latter following suit while also serving as the chief songwriter. Opening with the Guitar Hero-approved sevenminute epic “Through the Fire and Flames” from 2006’s Inhuman Rampage, which is more or less the band’s signature tune, Killer Elite checks off all of the boxes, offering up an allkiller-no-filler set of fantasydriven power metal anthems, with highlights arriving via fan favorites like “Heroes of

Noonmati 03612656968, 9954544738

HUB, GS Road 9864800100, 9864800200

Killer Elite

he English video game/ sp e e d / ne o - cl ass i c a l power metal enthusiasts’ first-ever “best of,” the aptly named Killer Elite manages to cram 22 of the band’s mightiest moments into a single collection -- that’s two discs and a bonus DVD if you’re into physical product. Hearing the group’s vast catalog parsed into choice bits actually makes for the most compelling Dragonforce outing to date, as Killer Elite not only features the most delicious cuts of meat, it spans two different eras of the band: the ZP Theart-fronted breakout years, and the more recent, Marc Hudson-led era -- Herman Li and Sam Tot-

Anuradha Cineplex

Fun Cinemas

Cast: Rajinikanth, Radhika Apte, Dhansika Director: Pa Ranjith ven if we overlook these inadequacies for the sake of the brilliant scenes scattered in between, it’s very hard to forgive the last half an hour, which comes across as a definite dampener, with forced ideological dialogues and a complete lack of imagination. But beyond all that, you need to give to Ranjith for the sheer guts of having conceptualised that climax for a Rajini movie. To be happy seeing the Superstar in this new avatar where he absolutely kicks ass transporting us to his ‘raw-actor’ days or feel frustrated thinking about the innumerable ways the movie could have been scripted and staged better... the choice is yours!

NOW SHOWING

u Yo LD OU N SH ISTE L

Our Time,” “Seasons,” “Last Journey Home,” “Operation Ground and Pound,” “Cry Thunder,” and “Valley of the Damned.” The collection also includes three live recordings, “Fields of Despair,” “Three Hammers,” and “Starfire,” and the three songs culled from the band’s 2003 debut Valley of the Damned (“Heart of a Dragon,” “Black Fire,” and “Valley of the Damned), have been newly remastered. A deluxe edition of Killer Elite that features a DVD containing all of the group’s videos is also available.

Author:

Mvg Maneesha Agrawal

About The Book “He thought of the day when he had prayed here first.... alone, stranded amidst misery and absolute devastation. He didn ‘t have a will or a way that day. And then, a dream had appeared.....” About The Author Maneesha Agarwal (MVG) is a well-read and widely-traveled writer, who started her journey with pen through a few published travelogues. She has

u Yo LD OUad H S re also worked as an editor (English language) with an autonomous government body for three years. MVG always had a penchant for deep thinking, leading her to study Sanskrit to gain insight into the Indian school of thought. This, coupled with her erudite fascination for history and exploring obscure places, has prompted her creativity to carve a fable out of folklore, which she presents in her first book, From Zero to One.

GOLD Cinema Salasar Building, Lakhtokia 9854077177

SULTAN 11.00 AM & 2.15, 5.30 & 8.45 PM madari 11.30AM, 2.00, 5.00 & 8.00PM

GOLD Cinema

LG Towers, Narangi 8811001898 SULTAN 2.00, 8.15 PM madari 11.00AM, 5.15 PM

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Not ‘busking’ for glory

Entertainment

SIDHARTH BEDI VERNMA

busk

bʌsk/: verb: gerund or present participle: busking verb: gerund or present participle: busking 1. play music in the street or other public place for voluntary donations. “the group began by busking on Philadelphia sidewalks” 2. informal improvise.

hen budding musicians undertake tours, music lovers with an ear for new music take notice. Such an interesting tour recently found a stoppage at G Plus. As crowd of the G Plus organization gathered at The Lounge of the office, the decidedly smart youngster, in fashionable blue shades broke into his rappy first number strumming confidently on a hollow guitar. In between numbers, he introduced himself, “Moi Dpak Borah, ahisu Halflongor pora (I am Dpak Borah from Halflong).” And the Ecopolis, a city wide tour, thus came to an end. The numbers were most interesting oscillating between rap and blues, more so the lyrics. Performance over, Sidharth Bedi Varma sat for a chat with the Dpak just to know his musical intentions and aims better. Dpak, it seems, has already made a name for himself in the music circuit. A quirky character, he said, “I am a socialist according to Zubeen. According to my girlfriend I am irresponsible. Well, that’s who I am.” Dpak is musically associated with the band “Digital Suicide” but the Ecopolis tour is a solo project by choice, the intention being to reach out to the common people who understand his music. His tour manager Kaushik Jai Baruah chipped in, “This is not bereft of Digital Suicide. Digital suicide is a message, and Guwahati, Assam or even northeast as a whole isn’t open to ‘noise’ as a form of music yet. They have not opened their mindset to that. I’ve toured with Digital Suicide and I am doing this with Dpak as well and the common ground here is the message. As he said, he is a socialist and he is doing this because he needs to put out a word to people.” So whose brainchild was Ecopolis? Dpak’s of course because they were tired of asking for sponsorships and approaching organizers. “I felt we needed to take our music to the streets and to the people directly and get them to respond. I wrote some songs and I know I wanted to play some live gigs,” said Dpak. The party got some amazing response from the people while on tour - something they have never experienced in their lives before. While Dpak has played for 5 people

he has also played for 100 people – total strangers who don’t know who he is but lends him their ear just the same. In fact on one occasion, they were in Maligaon, which according to Kaushik is one of the most nonbourgeoisie localities of Guwahati and he went to the NF Railway stadium to play. “We were playing songs for a couple of Punters as Dpak calls them, who were there for their evening snacks or their cricket match or whatever and there was this young kid, probably 4-5 years old and who did not understand Assamese and who was with his grandmother and he just didn’t let his grandmother leave saying, ‘mereko rehna hai, dekhna hai kya ho raha hai’. So he stuck through the entire show and has been featured on several of the photos we posted on Facebook,” said Kaushik citing one of the memorable moments of the tour so far. Dpak added, “I want to mention this guy named Vicky. So the moment I played the first show on the Ecopolis tour, this guy started following us for the next 4 days. He became our groupie and helped us carry our equipment too.” The main objective behind the Ecopolis tour is apparently enlightenment! Kaushik opines that most music in the northeast stay inside rooms and studios and he felt he could bring a change in enlightening people about the different forms of music. “At the same time I want to mention that there is a dearth of values. While guys like me sing with my voice openly and sing whatever I want, we have these pubs and venues where they allow you to do only covers. They want me to sing in English but being an Assamese guy from independent Assam I want to do whatever I want. I sing in Assamese and these guys have problem,” said Dpak. Kaushik however could not fault the pubs as it is the audience’s who are not open to new music. “They (the audience) fail to open up to newer things. The pubs need business and want footfall and you can’t blame a guy who is running a business,” said Kaushik. Dpak today is definitely carrying a socialistic message and building an image accordingly. He is not really concerned about his image as he is doing whatever he is doing out of

passion. In the process, he began to dislike the capitalism in music and at some point of time he started opposing this capitalism. “As an artist I don’t want to carry any image but want people to understand songs. If they don’t understand my songs, it is ok but I will keep on doing my stuff. Apart from that I am a fat guy, a jolly guy and friendly with people. I hang out with friends. I am a simple normal human being and don’t want to become a star or something any day at any point in my life. I just want to be a normal human being playing

“I felt we needed to take our music to the streets and to the people directly and get them to respond. I wrote some songs and I know I wanted to play some live gigs” music and surviving in the process. I don’t want to carry a rock star image with me and making money is definitely not the end goal. Dpak and Kaushik have had a fruitful association so far. Kaushik was in immediate agreement with Dpak when the latter proposed that they undertake the Ecopolis tour becoming his tour manager and making things easier. Kaushik selects the venue of performances, designs and distributes the tour’s flyers, etc. Dpak is left to concentrate on his music and performances. “We re-

ally worked hard to make this tour happen. The response we have got is amazing. We got calls from many people. I am doing my artist part. He is doing his managing part,” beamed a distinctly happy Dpak. The tour is going places it seems. Kaushik had this say about the tour, “We just got a call yesterday from this gentleman called Kunal Shandiliya. May be he got inspired or something and congratulated us on our work. Kunal previously attempted a gig in Haus Khaz (New Delhi) but didn’t get the desired response. Well you know the Hauz Khas crowd! They are like bourgeoisie or high society. But Kunal thought we had an amazing gig. I urge all song writers and musicians to go out there and do this because it does three things for people. One, when a musician goes out on the streets and performs, he creates a genuine audience. A person has a choice to stand in front of you and listen. If he is interested he can listen and if not, then, he is not under any divine order to stand with us and waste his time. Secondly, what happens is that it gives a moral boost. Now Zubeen is Dpak’s hero, and the other day he played in front him and in the after movie, you’ll see how Dpak just closed his eyes and performed, feelings that are just lost in translation. And thirdly, people need to stop complaining about the scene. There is no scene - the scene is a myth - the scene does not exist. To a lot of people, the scene only exists because Facebook exists. And that is what we are trying to build – ‘make your own scene’. Go out to people and play your music, if they like it, they’ll come back to you. If they don’t, don’t bother. You got the exposure and experience that you wanted. At the end of the day it’s about the thrill and in the end it doesn’t matter how much money you got or how many Facebook likes. It is

about pure satisfaction, a feeling that you cannot explain.” For Dpak and Kaushik, creating a genuine audience is the real target. “When you are in a gig like that, your drummer can’t save you, your bassist can’t save you and you are a one man show. We don’t want any TRP. Even the 5 people we entertain are our reward,” said Dpak. The next phase of this tour will take the duo to Delhi. They will also perform in Mumbai in the coming months. On being asked whether they would change their approach in Delhi, they said, “We cannot change the songs and we first specifically want to reach an Axomiya audience before moving on to others. Sepultura first conquered Brazil before conquering the world. We want to reach an Axomiya audience first and then the rest.” The duo will launch an after movie soon which will be made available online. Being associated with controversies in the past, Dpak unwittingly has managed to ruffle a few feathers among fellow musicians. He clarified, “We don’t want to get into any controversy. We are the only Indian band to have gone naked in a photo shoot. Many people told us that we crossed a line. But the problems people have must be told on the face, not on Facebook or through social media. You shouldn’t act amateurishly on Facebook, you will get blocked. The duo sure has a long way to go in terms of conquering what is an extremely capitalist profession, but they have embarked on this journey with a purpose, a purpose that many musicians still lack. We could not be more thrilled that such a dynamic duo has undertaken the effort to spread the Assamese language in the most form of communication, music.

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Citypedia Horoscope of the week

Taurus

Sudoku

Gemini

Although your loyalties may be challenged at the start of the week, you may find that you do best when you stay true to yourself. Where you’re most likely to have the most fun is when you’re romancing or creating. Any activities that allow you to express yourself are going to bring you a lot of happiness. And if there’s some competition involved, you’ll be even more in your element. Be aware that you may be more determined than you realize.

If you hear any gossip early in the week, it might be best to adopt an impartial viewpoint rather than believe what you hear or take sides. That way you can steer clear of any trouble. The focus shifts when your domestic sector comes into view, which could encourage you to enjoy being at home and perhaps take time out to recharge. A conversation over the weekend could prove very productive and may be part of the reason you feel so upbeat.

Should you or shouldn’t you splurge? This could be your dilemma early on when you feel like indulging in a few experiences or small luxuries to boost your mood. You will be in your element once Venus and Mercury move into Leo and your communication sector. This is an opportunity to share your plans with those who may be able to help you accomplish them. It’s also an opportunity to come up with some creative solutions to any ongoing problems.

The Quarter Moon on Monday could leave you wondering whether to discuss an issue or keep quiet about it. However, by the time Wednesday comes around, your focus may be on other things like financial matters and shopping. The coming weeks could encourage you to look into ways to boost your income and market a skill or talent that you may have neglected until now. It’s also a good time to make a budget and save for a rainy day.

With a focus on your spiritual sector, there may have been a lot going on recently behind the scenes. Venus dances into your sign on Monday, followed by Mercury midweek. This can be an opportunity to talk about what’s important to you and get personal plans up and running after a period of creative inspiration. The weekend could bring a surprise your way and it looks like one that you’ll thoroughly enjoy. Watch out for a dream that could have special meaning.

Monday’s Quarter Moon in Libra could see you considering whether to toe the line or do your own thing. However, this time around you might want to avoid being so diplomatic and go with what feels good. Once Venus, your personal planet, moves into your social sector, followed midweek by Mercury, you’ll be ready for some good times. The coming few weeks look set to be very enjoyable, with you being a major player in the social scene.

Although you’re still in search of adventure, a part if you wishes for peace and quiet. Monday’s Quarter Moon could spotlight a situation in which taking some time out might help you reflect on your priorities and perhaps make some key decisions. With Venus and Mercury shifting to the topmost sector of your chart, this is also when you could be in the spotlight. Showcase your creative abilities, as doing so could net you some special opportunities.

The Sun continues its journey through a more sensitive sector of your chart, so even small decisions could have an impact on key areas of your life. This is an opportunity to let go of resentment, fear, and other similar emotions that are keeping you from being the best you can be. Once Venus and Mercury hike into your sector of travel and adventure, you’ll want to expand your horizons, too. Travel plans may be in the cards by the weekend.

Although relationships continue to be important, you may be looking for something a little deeper as the week progresses. Once Venus edges into a sensitive, intense sector of your chart, passion may be one emotion of note, as well as an awareness of how you might make the most of shared resources. It’s these edgy issues that could require a little thought and planning. Dates could be very special, particularly on the weekend, so don’t miss out.

You may be wondering whether to stick to your health routine or go wild and indulge. Monday could see you on the horns of a dilemma, but it might be better if you can find a compromise. It’s time for some teamwork as Venus and Mercury dance into your relationship sector. Whether you’re working with your sweetheart or a group, you can achieve much more together than you can alone. Expect the unexpected over the weekend.

If you’ve indulged one too many times lately, a shift in focus to your health and wellness sector could see you making a few key decisions. Use this chance to think about your health goals and what you want to achieve. If your exercise routine has lapsed, you may feel motivated to get back on track, particularly if a romance is budding and you’re eager to impress someone. If you’re already involved, you could work together to stay in tiptop shape.

Cancer

Libra

Capricorn

GUWAHATI

Leo

Scorpio

Aquarius

Virgo

Sagittarius

EMERGENCY NUMBERS RADIO TAXI SERVICES Prime Cabs 0361- 2222233 Green Cabs 0361-7151515 My Taxi 0361-2228888 Cherry Cabs 8876222288

24-HOUR PHARMACIES Arya Hospital, Ulubari (2606888, 2606665) D Modern Medicos, Maligaon (9864366763) Candid 24x7, Panbazar (2604422) DEAD BODY CARRYING VAN GLP Social Circle 2737373, 9435047046 Marowari Yuva Manch 2542074, 2547251 GGUMTA 98640-16740 OTHERS Fire Emergency 101 State Zoo 2201363 GMC Carcass Pickup 9435190720, 9864047222 LPG Emergency/Leakage 2385209, 2541118, LPG Booking (ivr System) 7670024365 Child line Guwahati 1098

ELECTRICITY SUPPLY Call Centre – 9678005171

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

AMBULANCE

Ambulance 102 Arya Hospital, Ulubari 2606888, 2606665 Downtown Hospital 9864101111, 9435012669 GLP Social Circle 2737373 GGUMTA (Mirza) 03623-227109 Marowari Yuva Manch 2542074, 2547251 Free Ambulance to GNRC Hospitals Toll Free: 1800-345-0011

police station

Pisces

last week solution

Aries

A Sudoku puzzle consists of 81 cells which are divided into nine columns, rows and regions. The task is now to place the numbers from 1 to 9 into the empty cells in such a way that in every row, column and 3×3 region each number appears only once.

Comissioner of Police: 0361-2540278 DCP, Traffic: 0361-2731847 DCP, (Central): 94350-49599 DCP, (East): - 94350-83103 DCP, (West): - 94350-27744 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

Arya Hospital, Ulubari (2606888, 2606665) B Baruah Cancer Institute (2472364/66) Brahmaputra Hospital Ltd (2451634/678) Chatribari Christian Hospital 0361-2600051, 92070-44374 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)

About Sudoko

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

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

GMC helpline number for garbage collection

8811007000

Hospital

TB Hospital (2540193) Wintrobe Hospital 0361-2519860, 98647-77986 IHR-Institute of Human Reproduction 0361-2482619, 098641-03333 Dispur Hospital Reception 97070 20370 82539 99124 361-2235759 (Landline No. / Fax) Hayat Hospital 8011003110 GNRC Hospital 1800-345-0022 (Toll Free) GNRC Ambulance 1800-345-0011 (Toll Free)

Vigilance and anti corruption toll free number

1800-345-3767

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

4th edition of Brahmaputra Valley Film Festival starts at ITA Machkhowa

he much anticipated 4th edition of the Brahmaputra Valley Film Festival (BVFF) was inaugurated on Friday in a grand manner at ITA Machkhowa, Guwahati. K V Eapen, Additional Chief Secretary, Planning and Development, was the Guest of Honour for the programme this year. Renowned filmmaker Prakash Jha and sound designer Amrit Pritam were also present as Special Guests. Tanushree Hazarika, Managing Director of Eclectic Group and Festival Director of BVFF said, “What germinated as an idea among a couple of friends has turned out to be a full-fledged initiative. This is part of our effort to bridge the gap between mainland India and northeast.” Stating that he derives a lot of inspiration from the northeast, filmmaker Prakash Jha said, “There is something about the Brahmaputra which draws me personally. This festival is a window which gives us a peek into the rich heritage and culture of the northeast. Hindi cinema is just commercial cinema. Don’t give too much value to it. Filmmakers like us from Mumbai will feel privileged to work with people from northeast.” Sound designer Amrit Pritam who hails from Assam spoke about his struggle in Mumbai and how he didn’t get any work in his first year in Mumbai.

Guest of Honour K V Eapen said that stress should be given upon regional films as they cross over more easily. The Brahmaputra Valley Short Film Competition is one of the highlights of the festival and the top 15 entries from this year’s competition were screened for the audience. These films which have been made by budding filmmakers from all across the northeast received overwhelming response. The result of this competition will be announced on Sunday. Zualaa Chhangte directed the Mizo film “Kima’s Lode Beyond the Class” which won the award for Best Mizo film at the 63rd National Film Awards was the first feature film to be screened on Friday. This movie explores the journey of a young boy in Mizoram. Prakash Jha later interacted with aspiring filmmakers from the region in a workshop on pre-production. Assamese director Tarunabh Dutta’s 30 minute long movie “Out of the Blue” was also screened in the evening which was followed by an audience interaction with Prakash Jha. The event was moderated by Karma Paljor, Business Editor of CNN IBN. The day ended with the screening of another National Award Winning movie ‘Eibusu Yaohanbiyu’ which won the award for the Best Manipuri film.

Event

Days

Events

July 23rd to July 29th

JULY 24 PALACIO

JULY 23 TOPAZ

JULY 23 DON BOSCO

AUDITORIUM

JULY 17 TERRA MAYAA

JD Institute presents 11th JD Excellence Awards

D Institute of Fashion Technology, Guwahati Centre presented its 11th JD Excellence in Design Awards, 2016 at ITA Machkhowa on 16th of July, 2016. The event focused on giving a platform to the young designers to expand their creative minds and develop concepts which will help them benefit the industry in future. The event was inaugurated by Executive Director, Mr R.C Dalal along with the Centre Director, Ms. Sumita Dey Deka &amp; Director Ms. Ushmita Dey. The day commenced with the Interior Design exhibi-

JULY 23 XS tion of product design created by the students of Interior Department, with the Interior Design exhibition of product design created by the students of Interior Department. The JD Excellence in Design Awards has always been the most awaited show in the NE and with each passing year it has only grown bigger n better. Every year a unique theme is provided to the student which acts as a guideline as well as an inspiration to the young designers to produce something that has never been seen before.

JULY 23 Cheers Crossroads

G PLUS JUL 23 - JUL 29, 2016

Catching Up Most shared story of the week Suresh Prabhu, the Union Minister for Railways retweeted a GPlus tweet on the newly launched Deen Dayalu Coaches. We are definitely on the national radar when it comes to a news portal from northeast. It got over 100 likes and 20 retweets within minutes of being published. facebook.com/guwahatiplus

Guwahati

twitter.com/guwahatiplus

GYAN

Did you know?

Saraighat Bridge

New

Chic on the block

Neha Bora About Me

I am Neha Bora from the Gateway of the Northeast, Guwahati. I am currently pursuing my BA (Hons) in Sociology from Lady Sri Ram College, Delhi. Dance runs in my veins and I would die for street food. Modelling is my hobby. I just love to explore new places and am fun loving yet straight forward kind of a girl. My mother is my idol. I started modelling two years back. The titles which I have won till now are Pinkvilla Miss Catwalk, Hifi Miss Best Walk, Miss Barak North East, Miss India North East and Miss Photogenic. I have worked for famous brands like Loreal, elle18 and Himalaya Opticals. I believe that life is like a mirror. If you smile at it, it will smile back at you. So do good, be good and look good.

state-of-the-art construction of those times, Saraighat Bridge is the first of its kind rail-cum-road bridge built over the Brahmaputra River in Assam. A vital link between the northeast region and the rest of the country the bridge was built immediately after the IndoChinese war. The bridge completed 50 years of its existence in 2012. The bridge has a national highway on top

and railway tracks below. National highways 31 & 27 run on this Bridge to and from Guwahati. The total length of this bridge is 1492 meters (about 1.5 Km). Besides transportation the Saraighat Bridge is also a great place to hang-out if one wishes to view the Brahmaputra River in all its glory. It also provides a treat for the photographers as it provides spectacular angles of the river, especially at sunset.

The day I stepped into the industry of fame and glamour, I promised myself that I will work hard and give my best but at the same time I will always respect my culture, my traditions and maintain my gravity in work. The rest depends on my luck and of course your good wishes.

Ka m u r of the week

raffic jam was considered as a major kamur this week as even after a small downpour maximum city roads were submerged under water and traffic police had to work overtime controlling the traffic. Also rash driving added to the agony as on many roads vehicles did not have the patience to wait as they created around four to five lines blocking the road for the vehicles from the opposite side.

WHAT DID I JUST HEAR?

as Rahul Gandhi sleeping or not in the Parliament is a big question but Congress parliamentarian Renukha Chowdhury had a good defence. She blamed the weather. “It is hot outside, so people usually go inside the parliament which has air-conditioning and therefore close their eyes to relax,” she said. “Can anyone sleep in this noise?” she challenged.

PIC OF THE The headless trekker man. Photo: Adib Zamali

WEEK

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