GPlus Vol 4 Issue 31 by G Plus

Govt claims on industrial growth inconsistent with data

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VOLUME 04 | ISSUE 31 MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017 PRICE `10

Modi promises development, Cong dubs it

‘lollipop’

Rahul Chanda rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

he Prime Minister, Narendra Modi inaugurated the Dhola – Sadiya Bridge and while speaking on the occasion, he congratulated the people of Assam in particular and North East in general, as he said that the new bridge would script a new era of development. Referring to the mythological story of the marriage between Sri Krishna and Rukmini, Modi said that Sri Krishna, who hailed from Dwarka in Gujarat, married Rukmini, the daughter of Kundil Nagar

- the present Sadiya. Therefore, he said that he felt happy to be associated with Sadiya and this association would further strengthen the relation between Assam and Gujarat. On this day, the Modi government completed its third year in power. He also laid the foundation stone of AIIMs which will be constructed at Changsari and the Agriculture Research Institute at Gogamukh. Well, all these achievements apart, are people content with the Modi government after three years? What else did he announce even as people waited patiently for his speech? What did the other politiContinued to page 02

Himanta’s pass percentage allegations a complete hoax: Shantikam Hazarika PG 07

New Chic on the Block Naina Patir PG 24

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Lead Story

Modi promises development, Cong dubs it ‘lollipop’ While Narendra Modi celebrated the completion of three years of his government in Assam, Congress distributed lollypops comparing the sweet to the PM’s promises speeches are getting clichéd according to many people in the state as he always keeps harping that the government will work together with the people to develop the Barak and Brahmaputra valleys. Even he tried to woo the Prime Minister and thanked him for celebrating the completion of the third year here in Guwahati. Listening to the speech of the chief minister and the finance minister, the crowd began to compare who was better, and the performance of both looked like it was a tough competition. Anyway, while the BJP was happy that the Prime Minister visited the state, the Congress distributed lollipops across the state ridiculing the PM’s visit.

So there is nothing much for Guwahatians except for AIIMS which will be constructed in Changsari. But was the visit successful or it is another lollipop to the people of the state? n

‘Modi lollipop’ Continued from cover cal leaders say on the sidelines of Modi’s visit? G Plus analysis the visit and the speeches delivered by the leaders.

The Modi announcements Beginning his speech in Assamese, the Prime Minister recalled the names of Siu-Ka-Pha, Lachit Borphukan, Bir Chilarai, Sati Joymati, Sati Sadhani and Sati Radhika. He announced the launch of a new scheme “Sampada” for promotion of agro and food processing industry in the country to mark the completion of three years of his government. Sampada stands for Scheme for Agro-Marine Processing and Development of Agro-Processing clusters. The Prime Minister stated that Government of India has initially earmarked an amount of Rs. 6,000 crores for the scheme and will take the same forward in Public Private Partnership mode in future. Modi commented that the central government’s decision to set up IARI at Gogamukh is a step towards changing the future of the nation. The Prime Minister expressed the view that the IARI at Gogamukh lays emphasis on area specific research and will help in scientific intervention based on local demand. He further added that in the functioning of the IARI, Gogamukh, the North East will get special focus and local people and their experience will get preference. Stating that Government of India envisions various plans to boost rural economy by adopting different innovative measures,

Modi said, “We have a dream to change the life of the farmers. We want to modernize agriculture through holistic intervention to double farmer’s income by 2022 when India completes 175 years of her independence.” Addressing the gathering at Khanapara veterinary field Modi said that the creamy layer limit in OBC reservation will be increased from present Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs annual income. At present 27% quota in government jobs and educational institutes is given to OBCs provided the annual income of the family is up to Rs 6 lakhs. Those with higher income are referred to as creamy layer and are not eligible for reservations. But Modi, during his speech at Khanapara, increased the limit to Rs 8 lakhs. Other than these there were no other schemes announced but he stressed that now honest people do not have to think twice before living an honest life. He added that during the previous regime honest people had to think twice to lead an honest life. He also said that it is not that the previous governments did not think of new projects, but the there was a huge gap between the speed of implementing the projects and the requirement of the people. He further said that dedication of the bridge connecting Dhola with Sadia Ghat and laying of the foundation stones of Indian Agricultural Research Institute at Gogamukh in Dhemaji District and AIIMS at Changsari in Guwahati on a single day indicates the government’s intent to make equal development a reality in the country. Modi also said that he feels every corner of

India is akin to Delhi. Unlike the previous governments when occasions like government anniversaries used to be celebrated only in Delhi, he can reach anywhere. On the occasion, other BJP politicos also addressed the crowd.

Who said what? Many politicos also reached Guwahati for the occasion including Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu, Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh, DoNer minister Dr Jitendra Singh and the state cabinet ministers. Interestingly, everyone in their speeches did not miss the opportunity to woo the Prime Minister. Before the Prime Minister reached Khanapara, many people from across the state talked about the benefits they had received from the central and state government schemes. Later, after the Prime Minister arrived, the BJP state president, Ranjit Das, gave his welcome address. Thereafter, Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the crowd. In a belligerent style that made him seem too keen to impress the PM, he slammed the Congress saying if Tarun Gogoi would have visited the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge earlier, it would have been ready three years back. Sarma sounded very aggressive in his speech and spoke about the many initiatives that the government had taken in the last one year. He even tried to woo the Prime Minister not only with his praises for the PM but also by the delivery style of his speech. Sarbananda Sonowal also delivered a lengthy speech but his

The Congress leaders protested the visit of the Prime Minister to the state naming it as ‘Modi Lollipop,’ as according to the Congress, in the last three years of the central government and one year of the Sonowal government the promises were not fulfilled and Modi’s promises were compared to lollipops given to the people of Assam. Former chief minister Tarun Gogoi, talking to G Plus, was highly critical of the BJP government. He said, “They talked about corruption-free Assam, if it is corruption free why have the prices gone up? They said they removed all the illegal gates. Then why the prices, instead of going down, are going up? In creation of jobs they have miserably failed. Regarding corruption a few arrests had been made but you have to wait and watch how many of them will be convicted. The BJP charged some ministers of corruption when they were in our government but now they are very important ministers in their government. One minister, when he was with us, they themselves brought charges against him, and today he is the key man. Even for Subansari project their top leaders claimed they won’t allow it, and today they are for it. In health you just see the condition of 108. Are the model hospitals filled up with doctors? Are the patients getting medicines? In Majuli, the chief minister’s own constituency a patient died due to absence of doctors.” Similarly, the Congress leaders said that just like the promises made before elections were never fulfilled, even now whatever promise he makes will be like a lollipop. But the Prime Minister did not announce anything for Guwahati.

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Crime

Wanted fraudster arrested after 3 year hunt A case was registered in 2014 and the fraudster was arrested as he was caught by the complainant when he was partying at a resort Rahul Chanda rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

n a recent incident in the city, a long wanted fraudster was arrested by Pan Bazar police for duping people off lakhs of rupees while assuring them tenders, contracts and other businesses. According to a senior police officer, since long there have been cases of fraud registered where advances are paid to get contracts, tenders and other businesses and later when the promised work is not delivered the victims of the fraud files cases. In this incident, a person duped his friend for money. G Plus looks into the incident.

The incident According to the complainant Arup Gogoi, Manindra Kunwar, the accused, originally hails from Tezpur. He was studying here in Guwahati and in Grade 12 both happened to be classmates. But as Manindra kept failing to clear his Grade 12 for a few years they had not met in

a while. In 2014, they met again in Guwahati and as Arup hails from Hengrabari in the city and by that time had gradated, he wanted to go into some business. Manindra proposed that the food supply contract in Tezpur Medical Hospital could be acquired. He would help with all the official processes and also to get the contract as he hails from Tezpur and knows the people there well. Arup said, according to official documents etc, Rs 2.65 lakhs was paid to Manindra but actually more than Rs 3 lakhs was paid to him for securing the work. After taking the money on 30th June 2014, Manindra said he will have to prepare some documents for the business and accordingly, a trade license was made by him in Tezpur. Manindra then told Arup that they would need to hire people to work and so around 12 people were also hired and taken to Tezpur. All of them were accommodated in a rented house. Suddenly, Manindra vanished from the scene and after a prolonged gap Arup met him and his girlfriend in Shikha res-

taurant. On this occasion, Manindra’s girlfriend said that the food supply contract could not be acquired because of various reasons. Manindra assured Arup that he will pay back the money. Then Arup went to Tezpur, paid the rent of the house where his employees were staying and brought the twelve hired employees back to Guwahati. After that, Manindra had absconded and never met Arup again. Thereafter, Arup registered a case with Panbazar police station (case number – 368/14 under section 406/419/379/420 IPC).

The follow up According to the police, since 2014, they have been hunting for Manindra but he managed to remain absconding. According to the police, on 24th May 2017, Arup and his friends brought him to Panbazar police station and after interrogation he was forwarded to the court which sent him to judicial custody. Arup, talking to G Plus, said that Manindra had been staying in Greenwood Resort since the last 20 days and

one of Arup’s friends who had seen Manindra in Greenwood informed Arup and his friends. Manindra got wind of Arup’s friend’s intentions and tried to book an Uber to flee from Greenwood with two girls who were with him. But before he managed to do so, Arup reached the spot along with his friends and caught him. Arup mentioned that Manindra’s own brother-in-law had said that the accused had duped many people promising them tenders, contracts, modelling assignments etc. Arup said that Manindra was living a lavish life even though he never worked or has any established or settled business. The only thing he does is get hold of aspiring businessmen, models etc. and dupe them. Arup said that Manindra had made false claims to many people that the building behind Hub Mall belonged to him; similarly, he was prone to making many such false claims and lured investors with his lifestyle. But the question remains: are people so gullible that they get duped so easily? n

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Concern

VVIP visit gives city a cosmetic upgrade With every VVIP visit, especially of the stature of the Prime Minister, the main roads of Guwahati are repaired mostly in cosmetic fashion by re-laying the top asphalt coat resulting in the road levels going up every time while the abutting areas become further low-lying and prone to floods and water-logging

Roads were repaired without the necessary excavation and the top layer thickened with asphalt | G Plus photo

Kalyan Deb kalyan.deb@g-plus.in

uwahati came to a standstill when Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other VVIPs were here to address a rally at Veterinary Ground at Khanapara on BJP’s completion of three years in power at the centre. Even a holiday had been declared in Kamrup (M) on 26th May from 2 PM onwards for the Prime Minister’s visit. Several initiatives including beautification of the city were taken prior to the VVIPs’ visit to the city. Roads were given a fresh new look; the dividers and sidewalks were given a fresh coat of zebra stripes. Even the fences on the flyovers were newly painted while the broken railings on the dividers were replaced with new ones. All this was done to give a facelift to the city and to welcome the Prime Minister. Although such initiatives will always be welcomed, it usually requires a VVIP visit to the city for it to look beautiful and fresh. This flurry of activities raises a pertinent question: will such initiatives ever be taken for the tax payers or is it only the VVIPs who deserve all the luxury?

The Concern For the past several days the various departments along with

the bureaucrats and the government officials have been on their toes, while the Public Works Department’s (PWD) contractors and their labourers have been having sleepless nights while implementing the beautification activities. The project was carried out with a budget of Rs 2.9 crores that included the asphalt layering, painting of dividers and sidewalks and mending of other damaged properties on the entire stretch of Srimanta Shankardev Path (GS Road) in order to present a beauteous picture through the temporary makeover given for the “grand day.” However, the initiative has also proved to be a bane on the city’s development process besides adding to the woes of the citizens, especially during the prolonged monsoons. Arbitrary raising of road levels in the city in blatant violation of urban planning norms has been a recurring phenomenon. Every time a city road is re-laid, it invariably gains height of a few inches with the result that many of the roads and streets – following decades of repairing – now stand at a height equal to or even exceeding the windows of the abutting houses. The abnormal rise in road levels has seriously aggravated the water-logging problem for residents in many areas of the city. Residents in several are-

as complain that their houses have been ‘sinking’ with the corresponding rise in road levels. While the levels of the major roads rise, the same result in transforming the various lanes and sub-lanes into low-lying areas which eventually suffer from flash floods and water-logging. “We are compelled to spend heavily on measures to block rainwater. Even more disturbing is the fact that our houses built

other localities because of the deteriorating situation. Many areas in the state capital face a similar problem — the height of the road has increased more than the plinth levels of houses abutting the road, leading rainwater to flow into the houses. Several houses get flooded during the monsoon because of faulty road construction and the poor drainage system in the city. Irked by perennial water-logging on the premises of his house during the monsoon, Utpal Sharma of Swaraj Nagar in Dispur raised the height of the front setback of his house in January. Sharma had built the house in 1992 but started facing the water-logging menace over the past few years. The Kamrup Metro district administration, in September 2016, had issued strict instructions to all civic departments concerned to maintain standard norms of road level during repair and resurfacing of any road. The directive was issued by Dr M Angamuthu, Deputy Commissioner of Kamrup Metro, under sections of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.

The Authorities’ say Apparently, the concerned government authorities such as PWD do not have any logical explanation why this blatant

Repair work being undertaken on divider grills | G Plus Photo

from our lifelong savings have suffered irrev ersible damage. This is a huge economic loss,” a resident of Rajgarh Road said, adding that many families of the Anil Nagar area had shifted to

violation is being perpetrated. The ongoing re-laying of the GS Road has added another inch to the already high road level. The authorities also have a different story to tell as it was mentioned

that the beautification process is part of an already sanctioned project. “It is due to rainfall that work was hampered on several occasions and the process coincided with the Prime Minister’s visit. It is otherwise part of a general scheme. Moreover, the drainage system of the city has been built in a haphazard manner. Earlier, there were not many houses constructed and most of the plots in and around the city were vacant. So the storm water used to get drained into such plots. With the construction of more residences over the past few years such plot of lands have disappeared due to which

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Concern the problem of water-logging has emerged and there is more pressure on the drains of the main roads,” said an official of the Public Works Department. During the beautification process a one-inch layer of asphalt coating has been laid whereas the legitimate procedure is to excavate the upper layer and then coat the road with a fresh one. PWD officials mentioned that it is due to the lack of proper machinery that the process cannot be carried out. “A road milling machine is required in order to initiate such a process which is not there

with the PWD. However, discussions are being carried out and it is likely that such process will be followed in the near future,” the official added. In this context, it may be mentioned that a few petitioners had moved the Gauhati High Court in 2011 after falling victims to road level rais-

Ward Talks to be held at Ward No 7

Crowds at an earlier edition of Ward Talks at Fancy Bazar | G Plus Photo

he sixth edition of G Plus Ward Talks is set to be held at Ward No. 7 on Sunday, 28th May where the ward residents can participate by voicing their concerns related to issues such as safety, roads, sanitation, road, water, theft, traffic, etc. of their respective localities with con-

cerned government officials. The interactive session will be held at Ambikagiri Girls HS School, Central Gotanagar, Maligaon from 11 AM. The discussion will be attended by City Mayor, Mrigen Sarania along with Ward Councilor, Bhupen Thakuria. Ward Talks is a platform for the citizens that help them to put forward their issues regarding their locality and the authorities to understand their problems first hand

and try to resolve them by following appropriate action. Ward Talks has been held in Ward Numbers 8, 9, 20, 21 & 26 previously. The last edition saw participation of Mr. Siddhartha Bhattacharya, MLA, Gauhati East constituency along with other officials. The past edition was held in Ward Number 21 which was attended by over 200 residents. Initiated by G Plus and partnered by Airtel, the aim of holding such interactive discussions is to make Guwahati a better city to live in through enhanced government – public participation. CEO, GMDA, Varnali Deka and the local MLA, RN Kalita have also been invited and are likely to join the discussion. n

ing and relaying. The PIL filed by the group of citizens sought the court’s intervention in the problems being faced by the res-

idents because of raising the levels of the city’s roads. It can also be mentioned that the Patna High Court, in a judgment on a PIL a few years ago, had ordered the road construction department and other agencies concerned to stop raising the level of the roads all over the state of Bihar. The court observed that urban develop-

ment guidelines, which provide for digging the old roads before constructing new ones, must be followed and that the agencies must ensure that the level of the road remains the same after any fresh construction. The court even rejected the submission of the department that digging the dilapidated roads before re-laying fresh ones on them would entail additional cost. With the authorities choosing to remain oblivious to the disturbing consequences of this malpractice intervention of the judiciary is the need of the hour. n

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

City

City’s roadside meat shops to be closed down

The state government is responsible for dead chicken being served in hotels and restaurants and such practices that are continuing in the city should be stopped immediately

Live chicken in a city market ready for sale | G Plus Photo

Juthika Baruah juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

f you are a regular eater in hotels and restaurants then hereafter you might just think twice before going to your favourite joints as most of them have a fair chance of serving you dead chicken rather than slaughtered chicken which is hazardous to health. This was revealed by the Assam Livestock and Poultry Corporation Limited. The Chairman of Assam Livestock and Poultry Corporation Ltd., Manoj Saikia, said that most of the hotels and restaurants in the city are serving chicken which comes dead in transit. “The broiler chicken comes from West Bengal, Bihar and the southern states and during transportation, a fair number of the chicken die due to various reasons including disease or suffocation. These dead chickens are hazardous to health as they become poisonous after a certain lapse of time. The company that buy the chicken do not discard these as they make

payments in advance and so they distribute the dead chicken among the hotels and restaurants,” said Saikia, while speaking to G Plus. The Chairman said that 33 lakhs eggs are being imported into the state from Andhra Pradesh besides other states and 20,000 kilograms of chicken are imported every day from which many of the chicken die during transportation. “The people are not aware about what they are consuming and the chicken and meat that they are buying is not even healthy as it is sold under very unhygienic conditions. The government of Assam has not yet implemented the Slaughterhouse Act and therefore meat shops do not follow the guidelines. It is the Guwahati Municipal Corporation who should implement the same and should instruct the meat shops and roadside meat stalls to follow the guidelines for selling their stuff,” Saikia said. He further stated that in other states, the chicken is slaughtered in slaughter houses after which it is

distributed in the market. But here in Assam slaughterhouses are not used except for only a few of the restaurants who follow the practice. “The meat that is chopped on the platforms in markets is also very unhygienic as the shops are not cleaned on daily basis. Most of the chicken that is hung in the meat shops is dead chicken which are sold to individual customers as well,” added Saikia. The general public in the northeast region is not aware enough about processed meat. Generally, people opt to buy live poultry and have it slaughtered in their presence rather than buy frozen meat. The boiling process of meat, which is generally carried out by people in their homes, is not sufficient to get rid of all the harmful bacteria that still remain even after the meat is cooked. In the slaughterhouses they carry out a technical process starting from curing with salt to lab testing and blast freezing process to get rid of all the harmful bacteria before it is sent out to market to be sold to consumers.

Although the GMC has taken such strict measures against the meat sellers who sell meat in open and unhygienic conditions no steps have been implemented in the restaurants, motels and other food outlets that buy meat from such dealers to be sold to their customers. “The meat that is cooked in our homes is processed and cleaned before consumption but what is served in restaurants is completely out of the knowledge of the consumers. The consumers are totally unaware about the history, quality and hygiene of the served meat and hence, it becomes a matter of huge concern,” said Saikia. Chef and owner of Khorika Restaurant, Atul Lahkar, said that the government is responsible for distributing dead chicken in the market. “The chicken comes from outside because the poultry farms that are under the government cannot make adequate supplies. The chairman of Assam Livestock and Poultry Corporation said, “The restaurants serve dead chicken but my question is if they know the whole process then why have they not banned the distribution of chicken? Somebody has informed me that the chicken is distributed in the restaurants. Then why have they not banned the companies that are distributing the chicken?” Lahkar further added that the hotel and restaurant business is growing and such a statement by the Chairman has hampered the entire business of the restaurant owners. Moreover, dead chicken is definitely harmful for health and therefore the government should look into the matter and they should identify the companies that are supplying dead chicken to the hotels and restaurants and their permits should be cancelled. He said that the government should take the responsibility and monitor

the quality of the food that is being served by the roadside food stalls. On the other hand, the administration has decided to close all such unhygienic fish and meat shops that openly sell their products on the footpaths in the city. The deadline given to the sellers to close such kind of fish and meat shops is Sunday, 28th May. The decision has been taken in a meeting chaired by Addl. Chief Secretary in-charge of Guwahati Development, MGVK Bhanu. He has also ordered Deputy Commissioner Kamrup Metropolitan District, Commissioner of Police, Commissioner GMC, CEO GMDA and Chief Food Safety Commissioner to work jointly as a team in this regard. If the shops are not closed down voluntarily the administration will forcefully close all the shops on the footpaths. n

National Robotic Championship - ‘Escalade 6.0’ - invites participation of robotics enthusiasts

fter five successful years of Robotic awesomeness, organized by the students of IIT Guwahati, ESCALADE 6.0 is eagerly waiting to witness budding robotics enthusiasts to showcase their skills on a national platform as a part of their Annual Techno-Management Festival “Techniche.” ‘Gear Up For Glory’ - the greatest and grandest of all Robotics Events is all set to witness the techies of India compete and triumph over one another till the ultimate glory is achieved. The competition is divided in two levels – prelims and mains. Prelims will be organized in 11 centres around the nation including IIT Guwahati all on 9th July. The mains will be

held here at IIT Guwahati during Techniche’17 on 1st September, where all the selected participants from different parts of the nation will showcase their robotics skills. For the preliminary round, the participants will have to design a bot that can transfer blocks of thermocol holding onto an inclined rod and place them in their respective positions. Each bot shall be given three chances and the bot that finishes first wins. The top six teams from each centre which complete the challenge will be invited to IIT Guwahati for the four days of absolute technical fun, Techniche .The mains will have a different challenge imposed on the selected participants. The winner of Escalade 6.0 bags home prizes worth Rs 80,000/-. n

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

In The News

Himanta’s pass percentage allegations a complete hoax: Shantikam Hazarika What will be the pass percentage of HSLC this year? Will it be on the actuals of 25-30% or manipulated to more than 60% as has allegedly been the practice for the last 15 years?

File photo of Education Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma

Juthika Baruah juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

he results of High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) will be declared on 31st May but how impressive will the results be this year? Allegations against SEBA that the actual pass percentage of HSLC examination was very low but was improved for political considerations and on the instructions of upper level officials making it double the actual percentage have come from none other than the state Education Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma. It is surprising to know that only three out of every ten students clear the examination while the pass percentage has been manipulated to be fixed at 60-65% over the last 15 years, according to the education minister. In another unexpected response while replying to a query regarding the regularisation of high school teachers, the minister said that he was surprised to get a call from the SEBA chairman asking him what the overall percentage that needs to be fixed this year should be. The chairman also told him that every year the pass percentage remains at 25-30% but over the last 15 years, the final percentage has been fixed based on the advice of the education minister. It was after this actual scenario emerging that the Education Minister decided that for now, grace marks would be awarded for at least 3 subjects in the HSLC examinations maintaining that it would not be more than 5 marks for a single subject, as per recommendation of the 4-member

committee constituted by the state government to look into the method of awarding grace marks to students to inflate the pass percentage. The committee comprised the vice-chancellors of Gauhati University, Dibrugarh University, Sanskrit University and the Krishna Kanta Handique University. Sarma further added that the recommendation made by the committee will be implemented for this year only, as from the upcoming year a new ‘moderation formula’ will be taken up by the education department. According to him, marks will be given on compensatory basis. Grace marks would not be given to meritorious students but only to students who fail to secure the required marks in the examination. The added grace marks will not be mentioned in the students’ mark sheet. A separate notice where the details about the number of students who are awarded grace marks and the total number of marks they are awarded will be published by SEBA. Commenting on the allegations raised by the minister, former Chairman of SEBA, Shantikam Hazarika, said that the minister has made an issue out of nothing. “He has said whatever he wants as people who blindly believe him will not react to his statements. He has done this in order to continue the manipulation. Although he has used the word “moderation” there is no difference between moderation and manipulation as they can’t change the manipulation process. It has to be seen in an all-India context and this is a practice that has been going on since 1995

and exposed in 2013 after people hacked into the CBSE website to see how it is being manipulated. ICSE, CBSE all have been exposed. This kind of statement gives the feeling that only SEBA is indulging in such a process while the fact is that CBSE is the main culprit and it has been proved.” Hazarika said that such an initiative helps the marginalized students who have never been able to clear school. Those students who have passed with the help of grace marks are securing jobs as drivers, security guards etc. as every job needs matriculation and one has to see things in that context. It is not that a student who secured 3rd division has been placed in the 1st division. The education minister has also said that if necessary the position holders of the previous years might have to sit for re-examination on which Hazarika said that this is out of question and there is no basis for the students of yesteryears to appear for re-examination. Another announcement

made by Sarma was that SEBA is making plans to conduct compartmental examinations for those students who fail to pass the HSLC examination so that they do not lose a year. This policy might come into effect from next year. Moreover, Sarma also added that the education department is also considering returning HSLC examinations’ answer scripts to the respective students. But this is yet to be confirmed by SEBA. If not this year, this practice might come into effect in the next onetwo years. Moreover, the minister named two former ministers, Pankaj Bora and Ripun Bora under the Congress-led government, during whose tenures the pass percentage was allegedly inflated. Ripun Bora contradicted the same and challenged him that if he has the courage he should call an investigating agency and conduct a thorough probe to identify the guilty and take strict action against them and on failing to do so, quit as the

education minister. On the other hand, the present Chairman of SEBA refused to offer any statements regarding the manipulation that is continuing in the Board exams and said that it is only on the day of the results that it will be disclosed. n

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G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

City

GTP gets new look before getting new infrastructure

While the government claims that work efficiency of the traffic police will improve with the pilot project of new uniform, infrastructure like e-challan system, traffic control room, etc are yet to come into place Rahul Chanda

She added that the home guards cannot wear this uniform. So is it only the new uniform which will make the traffic police smarter?

rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

uring the launch of a pilot project of the Guwahati Traffic Police (GTP) recently, Chief Minister of Assam, Sarbananda Sonowal said that a smart police force is important to cope with modern day law and order challenges and modernisation of Guwahati Traffic Police has been initiated through this pilot project. Now the pilot project was basically the launch of a new uniform for the city traffic police. Will the new uniform be instrumental in transforming the city traffic police into a smart police force? What was the idea behind changing the uniform and what is the meaning of the new uniform? G Plus talks to the city traffic police chief, DCP (Traffic) Amanjeet Kaur, to understand the scenario.

The change DCP (Traffic) Amanjeet Kaur, talking to G Plus, said that when any uniform is selected there are three fundamental criteria on the basis of which it is done viz. visibility, comfort and suitability to various climatic conditions, and work efficiency. She said that when the police decided on the idea of changing the uniform, they researched hard and started searching for the right colour, material etc. She said, “We studied various uniforms across the world - countries like New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Korea, Japan, China, Hong Kong, USA and UK. The new uniform of the Guwahati traffic police is a combination choice from the various uniforms worldwide.” She said that they have tried to

The infrastructure

A city traffic official wearing the new uniform on duty | G Plus Photo

make the uniform light. Enquiring who the designer was, she said that it is the work of a team that included the DCP, other officers of the traffic department and some other people who were consulted to decide on the design. Later, the higher authorities approved the design and it was launched.

The meaning She said that the stripes which are there on the cap are newly introduced and the stripes are symbolic of emergency services. The pattern which is put on the cap is used worldwide and it indicates emergency services. She said that traffic personnel being the first respondent in any emergency, this was required. She said that all these days the traffic police used to wear woollen caps which are very uncomfortable and during summers it reduces work efficiency. The earlier cap also did not protect the eyes. She said that the new Pee cap is lighter and protects the eyes. The colour of the shirt has been chosen

because firstly it is used worldwide according to her and it is used the most because it is most visible on the ground. According to her, in VIBGYOR, red has the highest wave length, but red cannot be chosen as a police uniform. Neither can orange nor yellow. She said that they researched on green but did not use it, and finally decided on blue. She said that earlier, the traffic personnel used to wear a pant cloth as shirt. She said that now the shirt is lighter, of cotton material and very comfortable to wear. She said the belt is also lighter this time and the buckles on the belt allow them to hang certain police accessories like batons, etc. The trousers are also light this time according to her and chosen because of the visibility factor. She said that the entire uniform is set to improve work efficiency. The DCP said that everyone in the traffic department will wear it. As for her personal self, she said that she will have to check as she is an IPS officer and does not come under the Assam Uniform Rules.

An army doctor who recently came to Guwahati from Ukraine, talking to G Plus, said that the new traffic uniform is impressive but the traffic police personnel wearing it do not look impressive as most of them are not physically fit. Secondly, many do not know how to carry the uniform well. Another Guwahatian, talking to G Plus, said that the traffic police should be trained well so that they know how to communicate with the public decently. Similarly, many people had various views but mostly people felt that like the new uniform the infrastructure of the city traffic police should also be upgraded. A traffic police personnel talking to G Plus in anonymity said that in Guwahati there is no traffic training centre where they can be trained as many personnel keep getting transferred from traffic to other departments and controlling traffic is not the only duty they do always. It’s been ages that the e-challan system is yet to start in Guwahati. Every time a new DCP comes, he or she says that the e-challan system will start soon. Even the present DCP, talking to G Plus, said that the e-challan system will start soon in the city. There is no traffic police control room yet in the city. The traffic department is researching on the uniforms across the world but the control room which is a must for the cops abroad is yet to come to the city. Regarding the control room too, the DCP said that the proposal is in process and the city will soon get a traffic con-

trol room where there will be options of capturing the pictures of defaulting vehicles, etc. The DCP claimed that every reform comes step by step and so the uniform is the first reform. The rest will follow. Well, it will be nice to see if the city traffic police get transformed fully into real smart cops. But unless the government speedily improves the infrastructure, only a new smart uniform will not be able to improve the situation. n

yy yy

Weather report for the week Guwahati

SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

T-Storms

Partly Cloudy

Showers

Scattered T-Storms

T-Storms

34°/24° C

34°/25° C

32°/25° C

29°/24° C

30°/24° C

30°/25° C

SATURDAY

T-Storms

31°/24° C

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Ward Watch

Fancy Bazar’s Lakhi Gali shows city’s dirty picture

Lakhi Gali is a cause of huge concern to the city as its unhygienic, filthy condition gives every chance of diseases emanating and the apathetic attitude of the local businessmen demands all-round condemnation

as our chappals get stuck in the gaps in the sidewalk. With the large amount of weight on our heads it is very difficult to look down for any such

fer injuries due to the dilapidated footpath. Moreover, the vehicles are parked in such a manner that that it gets easier for the labourers to transport the packages over the sidewalk and a well-constructed path in place will make the job of the labourers much easier. Businessmen also expressed their concern over the deplorable condition of the 200-metre stretch. The condition is not just restricted to the road as several urinals have been created in various nooks and corners of the area due to the lack of a public toilet. “During summer the area gets engulfed by clouds of dust but the situation worsens after the slightest rainfall. The road becomes impossible to walk on and even vehicles have a difficult time. Due to the unconstructed state of the road it takes the form of a paddy field. Had the footpath been well constructed, it would have made the jobs of the people much easier,” said a businessman of the area. According to the locals, the area was primarily known as Mahim Poddar Road but due to the

cracks and if our footwear gets stuck we leave it there and come back for it after delivering the package to the vehicle,” said Rajesh Pajiyar, a labourer who earns his living by transporting sacks and containers to and from the trucks. Another labourer echoed similar views and mentioned that on many occasions they had to suf-

massive amount of business done in the area, it earned the term “Lakhi Gali” (Lakhi or Lakshmi meaning money). The 200-metre stretch consists of several godowns and the groceries are transported to various corners of the northeast. Most of the shops in the area have been in existence for over six to seven decades. n

The dilapidated condition of the roads at Fancy Bazar’s Lakhi Gali | G Plus Photo

Kalyan Deb kalyan.deb@g-plus.in

year has passed since promises were made and to support the fact that Guwahati city itself has not benefitted much in the past year one only needs to take a stroll down the Fancy Bazar area. Leave aside all the nooks and corners of the biggest business hub of the city, the lane named Lakhi Gali is a picture of dirt, filth and shocking lack of hygiene. While the entire Fancy Bazar area is known as the business hub of Guwahati, Lakhi Gali is a part of Fancy Bazar’s Gala Patti area which happens to comprise the biggest grocery wholesale market of the city or even the entire northeast perhaps. A stroll down the area allows sights of labourers carrying large sacks and containers, loading or unloading them from trucks. The round-the-clock bustle is due to the activity of goods being transported to different parts of the state and the north-eastern region. Apart from the labourers, a major part of the Gala Patti area remains crowded with heavy commercial vehicles such as trucks and auto vans among several other such carriers. The area houses hundreds of wholesale outlets and warehouses of grocery items. Meanwhile, despite being one of the busiest areas of the city with proper roads, Fancy Bazar is not a place that a Guwahatian would

choose to visit on any given day. However, Lakhi Gali narrates a different story in spite of being attached to the same Fancy Bazar area. In the recent past, a concerned citizen of the city shared a few photographs with G Plus that showed the deplorable state of the 200-metre stretch. Such was the condition of the road in the photographs that it seemed the road had been ploughed through. On close observation and enquiries by G Plus it was found that the road has not undergone any kind of construction in over two decades.

The issues Several concerns surfaced while interacting with the locals of the area. Among the worst sufferers are those labourers who carry the massive weight of sacks and containers on their heads and shoulders to load and unload the vehicles. The lack of a proper sidewalk is of prime concern for the labourers in the area and due to the same the labourers prefer to walk barefoot. It has so happened on numerous occasions that the labourers have suffered injuries as their feet get stuck in the crannies on the virtually non-existent footpath. “We prefer to walk barefoot

The Councillor’s say In the meantime, t h e councillor had a different story to tell. Rajkumar Tiwari, councillor of Ward No. 9, acknowledged the requirement of the sidewalk but also mentioned about the lack of coordination and cooperation on the businessmen’s part. “On several occasions we have tried to carry out cleanliness drives in the area but the businessmen are never ready to move their vehicles. Some of them even use the road to permanently park their vehicles with no room for a labourer or the municipal corporation to carry out the cleanliness drive. In one such drive, we had to forcefully remove the vehicles. On that occasion, it was found that the silt on the road was 24 inches thick. The councillor also mentioned that the locals in the area are not interested in maintaining cleanliness and are only concerned about making money. There is no time frame of loading and unloading the trucks and this is carried out round-the-clock. Tiwari also said that the businessmen in the area make tons of money but when it comes to maintenance of hygiene they are least bothered. “It is a sad thing that all such things happen in the area and a change of thought process is required. It is the educated people who litter the places and it is the uneducated ones who clear the litter,” Tiwari stated.

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Snippets

City school holds investiture ceremony of Prefect Council G Plus News

he 5th Investiture Ceremony of the Prefect Council of Royal Global School was held on 25th May 2017, amidst an august gathering comprising distinguished Chief Guest Dr KK Dwivedi, IAS, Commissioner of Commerce & Industry; Chairman Sri. AK Pansari, Vice- Chairman Sri AK Modi, members of the school management, Principal Mrs Anubha Goyal, teachers, parents and scholars of the institution. After the chief guest was formally escorted to D’Royal Colloseum amidst a standing ovation, the capacious program commenced with the lighting of the lamp followed by All-Faith prayer. The program then escalated towards the prime event when the Head-Boy Rupam Das and Head-Girl Nimisha Patra marched up to the stage where they were given their sashes and their badges by the chief guest. The principal then administered their oaths wherein they solemnly pledged to abide by the rules and regulations of the school and uphold the discipline and integrity of the institution with utmost dedication. The captain

of sports, the captain of activities and outreach, house captains, vice-captains and prefects of the different houses – Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Tagore and Vivekananda – took the dais and pledged to strive and make responsible, ethical decisions, support rules and regulations of the school, care for others,

Government to make Assamese compulsory till Class X

ening speech by Prof Dr SP Singh, Vice Chancellor of Royal Global University. The Chief Guest, Dr. KK Dwivedi then came onstage and spoke about his life and how it has been the biggest teacher in shaping up his existence. He extended his appreciation to the school and the management for

T conduct with integrity and serve to the best interests of their houses and their school. The school flags were then handed over to the head-boy and head-girl by the principal as a mark of responsibility. After the swearing- in ceremony, Mrs Goyal addressed the gathering, followed by an enlight-

imbibing the students in cultural ethos, tolerance and tradition juxtaposed with modernity. The program concluded with a note of acceptance and vote of thanks by the newly elected Head Girl Nimisha Patra followed by a tribute to the Nation with the National Anthem. n

he BJP Government in Assam has announced to make Assamese a compulsory subject up to class X in every school from the new academic session next year. The rule will be implemented in private, government, state board affiliated or under central boards, including CBSE. However, schools in Bodo areas will have the option of teaching Bodo and those in Bengali speaking areas can opt for Bengali, instead of Assamese. Speaking on the move, state Education

Punjabi Food festival at Vivanta by Taj

CM lays foundation stone for mini ISBT

aying the foundation stone for a mini Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) and also ceremonially flagging off 20 new buses for better connectivity with upper and northern Assam at Khanapara on Tuesday, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal termed the Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC), the symbol of Assamese identity and to bring back its glorious days, both the civil society and government must work

hand in hand so that the corporation can contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy. Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal said that District Transport Officers must be available to the public and they must stay away from corrupt practices so that transparent public service can be provided. The Chief Minister also distributed official vehicles to DTOs for facilitating a better working en-

vironment. Saying that ASTC has been successful in reducing the deficit gap to Rs 4.5 crores by streamlining its services and plugging the leakage in revenue collection, Sonowal said that the ASTC must make all efforts to achieve transition from a loss-making venture to a profit-making one and for that the officials and staff of the corporation would have to work dedicatedly and sincerely. The Chief Minister reiterated that the ASTC is not only for profit making but it also needs to carry the message of Swachh Bharat to the remotest corner of the state through clean and proper maintenance of the modern buses. He remarked that DTOs too must be accessible to the public and they must stay away from corrupt practices so that transparent public service can be provided. Transport minister of Assam, Chandra Mohan Patowary, MLA of Dispur, Atul Bora, Chief Secretary of Assam, VK Pipersenia, commissioner and secretary of transport department, Ashutosh Agnihotri and managing director of ASTC, AP Tiwari were also present on the occasion. n

Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced, “If we are in Assam, we have to know Assamese. This will be compulsory for all boards. Even if CBSE objects, we will enforce our decision.” This is a major step taken by the state government nearly a year after BJP came to power. The state government had earlier announced that it would make Sanskrit compulsory up to Class VII in state schools. However, it was forced to withdraw the decision following strong protests by several organizations. n

G Plus News

ivanta by Taj, Guwahati organized the Punjabi Food Festival to tantalise the taste buds of its Guwahati and North East patrons. Punjab and its hearty, tasty, delicious cuisine was the centre of attention from 19th May to 28th May, in the restaurant 7 as a part of its lunch thali and the dinner buffet. To usher in the authentic taste of Punjabi food, Chef Mukesh Rawat was specially flown in from the Taj Surajkund in NCR Delhi.

The chef is an expert in the Indian cuisine having worked and honed his skills. Chef Mukesh presented food from all the regions of the previously undivided Punjab – Lahore, Amritsar, Pind, Patiala and Jalandhar. While the food festival showcased Butter Chicken, Tandoori Chicken, Pindi Chole – there were also unique dishes like “Veera da Kukkad”, Chapli Lamb Kabab, Balti Gosht, Aloo Vaari, Ma Di Dal and Makai aur Methi ka Tikka. The event started on 19th May and will continue till 28th May. n

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Snippets

City cabs to go on 72-hour strike from May 29

ab drivers in the city will go on a strike from 29th May for 72 hours to protest against cab aggregator companies’ act of cheating them. “We have been requesting our service providers – Ola and Uber –

to address our problems, but they have paid no attention to our demands,” said Ismail Ali, the President of All Guwahati Cab Owners’ and Drivers’ Association. “The increasing number of vehicles has hampered our business. They have

also reduced the incentives that they had promised. We told them about the problem we have been facing, but they took no action,” added Ismail Ali. Due to the increased number of vehicles in the city, the earnings of the cab drivers have come down drastically. There are more than 10,000 cabs plying on the streets of Guwahati. “Due to the rise in the number of cars in this business, it has become difficult for us to pay our instalments,” added the president. The cab association has demanded a mechanism to safeguard the interests of the local youths. If their demands are not addressed, the drivers and cab owners have threatened to continue their strike. The strike is likely to bring problems to the residents and commuters of the city, as a huge number of people of the city rely on the cabs for their daily travel. n

Colleges to have uniform fee structure from this year

Bharalumukh OC suspended for raising allegations publicly

haralumukh police station Officer-in-charge Umakanta Bora was suspended from his office after the officer made allegations of extortions by ADGP Amitabh Basumatary and ACP Ponjit Dowerah. The suspended cop had revealed before news agencies that a lion’s share of the extorted money went to the ADGP and the ACP. Bora was suspended for not informing the concerned authorities in regard to his allegations against the ADGP and the ACP and instead

State Govt approves free admission to poor students

T C

olleges in the state will have a new fee structure in line with the recommendations of a state government constituted committee this year. Sources in the state education department said that the uniform fee structure fixed for the 2017-18 session has been recommended after analyzing the needs of the colleges methodically. “As soon as the government notification is published, the recommendations will come into effect in all colleges across the state, making the fee structures for TDC and Higher Secondary courses uniform,” said a senior official of the state higher education department.

The fee structure will be applicable for regular courses with university affiliated and state government concurrence. In urban areas, the ceiling for TDC fees have been tentatively fixed at Rs 5,660 for general courses in arts and commerce stream, and Rs 5,780 for a major course. For the science stream, the annual fee structure has been capped at Rs 6,880 for general course and Rs 7,060 for major courses. For higher secondary, the ceiling has been fixed at Rs 4,790 for arts and commerce, and Rs 5,060 for science. In rural areas, TDC will be a little more affordable. For general arts

and commerce stream, the fee has been tentatively fixed at Rs 5,310, while for major courses in the stream the fee has been sealed at Rs 5,430. In the science stream, general course fees have been capped at Rs 6,530 and major courses at Rs 6,710. For higher secondary institutes, fees have been fixed at Rs 4,590 for arts and commerce and Rs 4,860 for science. The panel, headed by the director of higher education, has given freedom to the college authorities to add the taxes levied by the municipal bodies with the approval of the concerned district authorities and when necessary. n

making the allegations publicly. His suspension letter stated that he was “suspended for gross misconduct and violation of service code of conduct.” Bora had raised the allegations against the senior officers after he was transferred as penalty on charges of pipe thefts. Police sources said that Bharalumukh OC was recently transferred and after he received the order he made certain allegations against his senior officers. n

he state government has approved free admission scheme to all the financially weaker students for masters, bachelor degree and higher secondary courses offered by the state government-run universities and colleges. After covering students admitted in higher secondary, B.A., B.Sc. and B.Com. courses last year, the fee waiver scheme will cover students seeking admission to the first semester of master degree courses this year. Besides encouraging more students to pursue higher education, the fee waiver scheme will offer benefits to students from Assam seeking admission to higher secondary classes as well as those applying for bachelor and master degree programmes. All provincialised and government colleges of the state, in-

cluding the state universities, viz. Gauhati University, Dibrugarh University, Cotton State University, Bodoland University, and Women’s University have been brought under the scheme. Students, whose parental income is less than Rs 1 lakh from all sources, will be eligible to avail the scheme. However, if the father or mother of a student is working in the state government, the central government, or semi- government undertakings, such students will not be able to avail the benefits of the fee waiver scheme. “Aim of the scheme is to provide access to the poor students of the state and to help them achieve the benefits of higher education,” said Ajay Tewari, Principal Secretary of the State Higher Secondary Education Department. n

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Governance

Govt claims on industrial growth inconsistent with data

The Congress party dares the state government to publish the details of the industries established during the last one year; the industry and commerce department’s advertisement claiming investment of Rs 6,500 crores and employment generation of 40,000 during its one year tenure seems to be thoroughly misleading

File photo of the Commissionerate of Industries & Commerce

Rahul Chanda rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

he government has just completed one year and it has, through various advertisements and press conferences, claimed that it has done its best to develop the state. How much public money was spent in advertisements is a different issue but the question that arises is: are the claims true in the first place? The industry and commerce department, through one advertisement, claimed that in one year they brought in investments of around Rs 6,500 crores and through these industries, provided employment to 40,000 unemployed youths of the state. KMSS chief Akhil Gogoi, talking to G Plus, said that in the name of bringing new industries only Baba Ramdev got huge plots of land from the government and

other than that nothing significant happened over the last one year. Similarly, the opposition also slammed the government over the claims. G Plus talks to various stakeholders to find out if the claims are true.

The claims According to the advertisement published in various dailies, the Industry and Commerce Department, Govt. of Assam, claimed that on the path of development in manufacturing sector, 112 companies, with investment of more than Rs 5 crores each, were set up in the state. In the service sector, 12 companies with investment of more than Rs 5 crores each were set up during the one year tenure of their governance. The advertisement also claimed that approximately 40,000 jobs were created because of these industries. The advertisement listed

the names of the companies and the list started with the name of Patanjali Ayurved Ltd. The opposition immediately started slamming the government saying it was a false claim. G Plus talked to former state Industries and Commerce Minister, Pradyut Bordoloi.

The opposition Pradyut Bordoloi talking to G Plus said, “This is a pure hoax and a ridiculous claim. What they are saying is effective from May 2016 to 31st March 2017 - a matter of 10 months - they have induced an investment of Rs 6,500 crores and they have facilitated engagement of 40,000 unemployed people, which is totally wrong. I just want to tell you that in the list they gave names of around 128 industries including a few in the service sector. The first name is Patanjali. Yes, we agree that Patanjali came to Assam and they have been

MSMEs established in Assam in last 4 years (Table No. 1)

Year

Number of MSME units in Assam

Employment generated

Approximate investment in crore

2013-14 (MSME)

1860

12971

310.99

2014-15 (MSME)

2629

20496

269.23

2015-16 (MSME)

1898

13848

255.98

2016-17 (MSME)

2177

19355

606.87

given land in Balipara industrial park which again was developed by us.” He further said that apart from Patanjali, starting from No. 2 in the advertisement list, every industry like Dabur, Emami, Jyoti Pharmacy, Sun Pharma, including Doomdooma Hindustan Lever and others had sprouted in Assam from 2007-08 till 2015-16. He also said that everything went stagnant when the Modi government suspended the North East Industrial Investment Promotional Policy (NEIIPP) in December 2014. He said that whatever investment had taken place during the Congress regime and whatever employment was generated in those days was carried forward by the present government and listed in the advertisement. Bordoloi said that he dares the government to publish the details of Industrial Entrepreneurs Memorandum (IEM) 1 and 2. He said that before any industry starts at any place they have to register, which is IEM 1. When the project is commissioned, it has to be declared, which is IEM 2. All these are on record. So Bordoloi said that he is challenging Chandra Mohan Patowari to publish another advertisement and provide the details of when these listed industries were actually established, when they made actual investments and how many people had been given employment. He said, “I have already thrown a challenge but they are keeping mum because they cannot do it. They are claiming something which was done during the Congress regime.” So, while the Congress said that the government is making false claims, G Plus thought of extracting some figures from the industry and commerce department to see how many industries were established in one year.

The details G Plus first went to the commissionerate of industry and commerce where some senior officials said that they can provide the information only about MSMEs as it is Assam Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC) which deals with the large industries. So the data related to large industries could be availed

from AIDC. A source in the commissionerate said that a business with the investment of Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 25 lakhs is taken as a macro industry. Industry with an investment of Rs 25 lakhs to Rs 5 crores is considered as a small industry. Investment between Rs 5 crores and Rs 10 crores is considered as a medium industry and an industry with an investment of more than Rs 10 crores is considered as a large industry. So the source said that the industry and commerce department can only provide information of macro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and according to the data available in 2016-17, 2177 MSMEs were established in the state in which an approximate investment of Rs 606.87 crores was made. These industries generated employment of approximately 19,355. But the government claimed employment generation of 40,000 and investment of Rs 6,500 crores. Was the rest generated and invested by large industries? After extracting the MSME data from the industry and commerce department (see Table No. 1), G Plus approached the officials in AIDC to get the data for the large industries. But it seems the corporation never maintains such data for ready reference and told us that they will have to compile the same. A source in AIDC said that the data will be compiled from the requests received and processed for eligibility certificate. The source said that every industry requires the eligibility certificate from AIDC after the unit is completely set up. So the data, according to the source, will be of large industries which have been completely set up in Assam year-wise. According to the completely set up data (see Table No. 2) of the large industries, approximately Rs 321.96 was invested in 2016; the data for 2017 was not provided by the AIDC officials. In 2016, 467 direct employment was generated by these industries. So in 2017, according to government claims, it seems within just three months a huge number of industries were established generating the huge employment figure that has been mentioned.

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Governance Large industries completely set up in Assam in last 4 years (Table No. 2)

Year

Number of large industry units completely set up in Assam (Approx)

Approx investment in crores

Approximate direct employment generated

2013

542.67

1107

2014

780.33

1140

2015

704.90

1478

2016

321.96

467

Now, the government claims are interesting if they are true. But are they true at all especially because of the fact that the data (see Table No. 3) provided by the Industry and Commerce Department and the AIDC just do not match the government’s claims at least for the last year. To be more certain about the issue, G Plus also tried to talk to some industries.

The industries A senior official of Emami Ltd, talking to G Plus in anonymity, said that Emami has three production units in Assam. The official said, “One plant was set up in 2003, one in 2008 and the third one in 2015.” He also said that the production of the plant which was set up in 2015 started in February 2017. So the present government might have claimed to have roped in this company because the production of one of its plants started in 2017. An official of ITC Ltd, talking to G Plus in anonymity, said that they acquired the land and also applied for the units in December 2015. He said that the soap production unit started then, but the food production unit was applied for in 2016 and accordingly they

got the permission. According to sources, Ayur-

sanctioned much before the present government captured Dispur

Development claims of investments and employment in one year by Industry and Commerce Department (Table No. 3)

Sectors

No of units

Investment in crores

Employment (Direct)

Employment (Indirect)

Total

Manufacturing sector, investment above Rs 5 crore

112

5320.18

13750

3318

17068

Service sector, above Rs 5 crore

561.42

2538

357

2895

Micro and small sector

2193

618.15

19572

Total

2317

6499.75

35860

3675

39535

sundra Healthcare Pvt Ltd also applied towards end of 2013 and after construction was over they started their services. But the government claimed that it was established last year. Some industry officials also said that former Industry and Commerce commissioner Swapnanil Baruah had helped them a lot in smoothening the path so that they could establish industries in Assam. Thus, it is quite apparent that many industries applied and were

and this fact is contrary to its current claims. But are the politicos the ones who have actually brought in the industries?

The other side A retired IAS officer, who used to work in the industry and commerce department, talking to G Plus in anonymity, said that it is not the Congress or the BJP which has brought the industries. Rather, it is because of the incentives offered under NEIIPP. He said that NEIIP was suspended on 31st December 2014 but that was regarding incentives payable for capital subsidy (30% of investment), where money would be paid to the industries. There were four types of benefits available: 1) exemption from payments of excise duty, 2) exemption from payment of sales tax, 3) transport subsidy and 4) capital subsidy. The December 2014 suspension meant that the capital subsidy and the transport subsidy would no longer be available to them except for those who had commenced production before 31st December 2014. After that the benefits of excise and sales tax was already invoked. Now all these industries that have come, their whole game is on being cheaper and this is apparent because all of them are FMCG product production units. Getting an excise exemption brings

to be released in June this year. He said that once the Centre comes up with a new policy, it would lead to upsurge in investment in the industrial sector in the state as well as the north-eastern region. All things considered, if the policy helped bring the industries to the state, how can the government brag that it was they who brought the industries without even renewing or ideating a new policy and just depending on the Centre? n

great benefit. The officer said that they expect now that the policy which was suspended in December 2014 and closed on 31st March 2017 should be renewed because without these it would be difficult to set up more industries in the state. Meanwhile, the state Commerce and Industry, Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary recently said that the new industrial policy for the North East is expected

CBSE to continue with its grace marks policy

n a major relief to students who have just taken Class 12 examinations, the Delhia High Court today directed the CBSE to follow its ‘moderation policy’ of giving grace marks to students for difficult questions. The court asked the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to continue with the policy which was in place when the examination forms were submitted last year. A bench of Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice Pratibha M Singh passed the interim order on a PIL filed by a parent and a lawyer contending that the policy should not be done away with this year, as decided by some states, since it would affect the students of Class 12, particularly those who

have applied for admissions abroad. The petition had said that the policy was changed by way of a notification by CBSE after the exams for the year were held and hence would have a drastic impact on the students. Yesterday, the High Court had termed as “unfair and irresponsible” the CBSE’s decision to scrap its ‘moderation policy’ under which grace marks are given to students in exams for difficult questions and had asked why it cannot be implemented from next year. The decision of the CBSE, which would come into effect from this year, “would have a drastic effect on the students,” the court had said. (Various Source)

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Art

Vision of Courage Subhrajit Roy

hen will-power overcomes all obstructions and courage gets a front step, success kisses someone’s destiny. The same was witnessed recently through a play enacted by students of Guwahati Blind School, Basistha. The Assamese adaptation of the fairy tale ‘Cinderella’ showed their talent and ability to be front runners in the society in spite of having vision constraints. The play brought out the best from the students, whether it was their acting or their musical skills. The simple ever green fairy

tale got a new dimension where local flavour of music and attire was infused. The title role played by Dolly Rajbongshi was quite inspiring. The ensemble of cast included Pradumnya Bora as King, Rajdeep Dakuwa as Prince, Pinky Das and Babita Das as step sisters, Sana Bano as step mother, Lalbor Ali, Bishal Baishya and Bishal Kalita as soldiers and Samera Khatun as Angel among many others. The lyrical presentation was well supported by the puppetry elements added by Rup-

jyoti Deka, Priyam Kashyap and Sohail. The music of the play remained one of the strongest points worth much appreciation. The vocals by Shahid Afridi and Purabi Talukdar initiated the flow of the play. The ideas of the songs, which included some folk rendition, were that of Imamur Hussain and Shahid. The music arrangements were supervised by Rajiv Medhi. Shahid also sang the title number of the play, where the flute recital was by Nibir which gave it a golden touch. The presentation became unique on its own as the live music by the visually impaired students and the coordination with time management by the actors on stage was quite perfect. Under the directorial leadership of Kismat Bano, who has left her mark in the dramatic arena of the state

as well as that of the nation through her plays ‘Helen’ and ‘Bano’, the students (both present and alumnus) of Blind School presented a splendid performance where acting skills were overshadowed by their thrill to live the characters as their own. Produced under the banner of Wings Theatre in association with Sangeet Natak Akademi, the play was adapted into Assamese by Kamal Lochan. Sharing her experience, Kismat said that she had been always inspired by the character of Helen Keller; with whose biographical piece she started her directorial debut. To portray the character, she wanted to experience the lifestyle and feelings of the visually impaired people and that made her visit the Blind School frequently. Accordingly, her association with the school became stronger, which gave her

the opportunity to work with these specially-abled students. As a fruit of their labour, two plays, namely ‘Pohor’ in 2015 and ‘Xapon’ in 2016 were staged. Kismat had articulated the challenge pretty well with these two productions. ‘Cinderella’ is the third in the list, which had two back-toback presentations - first at the Blind School Auditorium on May 16, 2017, followed by the Seagull Theatre on May 24, 2017. The initiative by Kismat and her team really deserves appreciation. The inspiration provided by these special children is quite encouraging and the courage they have showcased is an eye-opener for the society. A little spark to their talent can make something big. That’s the message the students carry in their presentation.

Paramapra: An amalgamation of sanskriti Meenakshi Gautam The Parampara festival is the brain child of the very reputed Sattriya dancer Anita Sharma. For the last seven years, Anita Shama through this festival has tried to bring artistes of national and international repute to the audiences of Guwahati. Thus, the people of Assam get a peek of what is happening in the national forum. This time around the festival started on an auspicious note with an invocation to beloved Lord Krishna titled “Govindo dudh piyo,” a borgeet of Mahapurush Mahadev. It was rendered sonorously by Prashanta Rajkhowa. This was followed by two Odissi dance items performed by Dr Anjanamoyee Saikia who beautifully rendered the numbers. The first item was Shiva Panchaka choreographed by Guru late Gangadhar Pradhan which was skilfully rendered by her. But her second item really was a very accomplished performance which was titled “Abhinaya” which was choreographed by Guru late Kelucharan Mahapatra. Towards the end of the first day we had one of the most memora-

ble performances of the festival. We had two of the most reputed dancers of the country namely Anita Sharma and Vidha Lal joining hands to present a dance item in their own inimitable styles. The fusion of Sattriya by Anita Shama and Kathak by Vidha Lal created an item which had the ele-

ments of their respective dances and at the same time they blended the two to create a fusion item which was a visual as well as an aesthetic delight. The initial item was an invocatory benediction in praise of Lord Krishna describing the anecdotes of Lord Krishna’s “Leela;” it was a duo performance by Vidha Lal and Anita Sharma. The dancers went

on extol, the embellishments of Lord Krishna be it the banamala around his slender neck or the peacock adorned crown. How Krishna would steal the clothes of Gopis while they were bathing. The composition was in Raag Yaman in a time cycle of 16 beats, choreographed by Geetanjali Lal. The crescendo point of their performances included the rendering of the

Kuzi Buri tale with Sattriya and Kathak elements. Anita became kuzi buri and did a very credible performance and Vidha Lal was a stunning Lord Krishna. Anita also did a Chali dance

which is a pure dance item. There was also solo Kathak dance item. There was a delightful rendering of peacock and elephants movements by the dancers. They concluded with Kathak kabits and Sattriya slokas which was an amalgamation of similar elements of both the dance styles. The second day of the festival had a mesmerising line up of programmes. The first was a Sattriya performance of Dr Meernanda Borthakur. Her dance performance was marked by clarity of hand and foot movements and gestures. Her crisp, clear movements evoked a very spiritual mood which is the hallmark of Sattriya. An artiste who left an imprint in the audience’s mind through his rendering was definitely Manoj Baruah. His notes that emitted from his violin were not only magical but left the audience gasping for more. He performed Raag Charukeshi and in fact Vidhushi Mandira Lahiri commented that

his performance was “unparalleled and unprecedented.” But there was more to come. There was a scintillating performance by mother-daughter duo of Padmashree Vyjayanthi Kasha and Prateeksha Kasha as they performed several items in Kuchipudi. There was a tandav and lashya item, they also performed the Kuzi buri tale. Their dance movements were a treat to the eyes. The clarity, crisp clear movements is lesson for all dance enthusiasts. The mother-daughter’s dance movements seemed like chiselled in marble. They were perfection incarnate and Prateeksha’s beauty and beauty of the dance movements left all bewitched. The curtain fell on the festival with the performance of Vidhusi Mandira Lahiri which was also mesmerizing. She performed Raag Gaurag Kalyan, and other semi classical numbers. Her power packed performance gave a befitting end to the festival. Another artiste who deserves mention is Deebajyoti Changma, a popular- tablist who ably supported many artistes in the festival. Parampara festival was held in collaboration with Directorate of Cultural Affairs and Abhinaya Society. n

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Feature

Janata Bhavan and several city flyovers were illuminated for the arrival of Prime Minister Modi

PM Narendra Modi being presented with a jaapi and memento at Khanapara Veterinary Field by Chief Minister of Assam Sarbananda Sonowal

PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Assam

PM Narendra Modi at the Foundation Stone laying ceremony for Indian Agriculture Research Institute (IARI), at Gogamukh,

PM Modi unveiled the Foundation Stone of AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences)

What marked an eventful day for the BJP government in power at the centre, the PM’s visit was marked by the inauguration of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Setu, India’s longest bridge, measuring 9.15 km and also led to the laying of the foundation stone for AIIMS at Changsari and IARI at Gogamukh. The BJP leaders also addressed a nation wide rally from Khanapara Veterinary Field on the completion of three years of BJP led NDA government at the centre. Suhan Mallick, a student of class 2, Little Flower School gifting PM Modi a drawing to spread awareness about Rhino poaching

Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Setu after its inauguration

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Fun Horoscope of the week

You could be moving into the spotlight over coming weeks as a focus on the topmost sector of your chart encourages you to showcase your skills and abilities. You now have a chance to impress a boss or someone in authority and perhaps get a well-deserved promotion. It all hinges on paying attention to detail and fulfilling your responsibilities to the letter. But avoid getting involved in too many things at once, as you may spread yourself too thin.

You may feel an urge to leave your comfort zone and explore options that represent a bit of a challenge with a steep learning curve. The coming weeks can also encourage you to travel with a view toward expanding your horizons and becoming acquainted with other countries and cultures. In addition, you may feel moved to work abroad or take a long vacation that allows you to visit several countries along the way. This kind of activity can build character.

Looking beneath the surface may help you understand the subtle currents that make up a key situation or relationship. And in doing so, key insights could allow you to help bring closure or find a way to tackle a certain issue once and for all. Your natural ability to get to the heart of a matter can stand you in good stead now. On another note, although you may want to splurge, key influences suggest hanging on to your cash for now.

The feisty energies of Mars in your sector of relating may have stirred up your relationships. However, the Sun’s presence in this same zone could encourage you to seek compromise. While it might be useful to speak the honest truth to cut through too much fluff, there are times when more sensitive souls could find this hard to cope with. Discussing matters in a gentler and more understanding way could bring you closer to a certain someone.

The time has come to allow your more playful side out into the open. If you’ve been busy with responsibilities, the stellar backdrop could encourage you to explore your relationship with your inner child and enjoy some quality time together. Involve yourself in freeing and therapeutic activities. Painting, drawing, dabbling in colors and bright materials, or using feathers and beads can unleash a vortex of creativity, and you may find this spills over into other areas of life, too.

Playing host can be especially fun as cosmic forces encourage you to invite others over for a friendly get-together. Your home could become a hive of activity where friends meet to discuss children, issues, and clever solutions to everyday problems. You’ll also benefit from clearing out clutter and giving yourself more room to maneuver. Online connections can also be a source of camaraderie and vital information that enables you to move ahead with a plan of yours.

1 9

2 6

He was contesting in 56 constituencies and his death would have meant a re-poll in all of them.

Picture Perfect

curio-city

This is Kaka Joginder Singh Dhartipakad, famous for having stood for more than 350 elections and losing every time. In the 1991 elections his security escort equaled Rajiv Gandhi’s. Why was such a large security detail arranged for such an insignificant candidate?

1. Junior Wimbledon champions who became men’s singles champions 2. Konkani 3. Jamsedji Nasarvanji Tata, and it led to the founding of the Tata Institute of Science (now the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore)

2 7 4

9 6 7

5 4 5

Picture Perfect

2 9 58 1 8 1 6

2 3

8 4 3 Daily Sudoku: Thu 18-May-2017 1 8

1 8

Your social life may have some additional sparkle over coming weeks as upbeat influences in this sector encourage you to reach out in new ways. You may already have made a number of new friends as Mars stirred up a desire to join groups or clubs that sync with your key interests. But a more awkward aspect on May 28 suggests that it’s better to be flexible and stubborn regarding an old friend who could be taking your attitude a little too personally.

Sudoku

You are now in a natural period in which the cosmos encourages you to stand back from life and reflect on your progress. As the Sun moves further into your sector of spirituality, this can be an opportunity to get closure on issues that may have been bothering you for some time. Taking the time to speak to the person or people in question and release any hurt feelings can go a long way toward bringing peace of mind.

Daily Sudoku: Thu 25-May-2017

last week solution

You may feel like experimenting with a new and fresher diet of organic foods or home-grown produce. The present focus on your lifestyle sector could be the catalyst that weans you off fast food and onto something more palatable and wholesome. The same goes for other activities, too. Taking up yoga or any other relaxing routine could seem more desirable than watching TV. In fact, a new and more healthful beginning may be on the menu for you.

You’ll begin to feel in your element as the Sun pushes deeper into your sign. It will come as no surprise if you feel moved to tackle projects that you’ve been dreaming up recently. Anything with personal meaning could inspire you to give it your best shot. With a New Moon in your sign on May 25, this special opportunity allows you to make a fresh start in any area you choose. Listing your goals can help steer you in the right direction.

5 3 9 8 1 92 37 78 44 26

4 2 1 1 6 4 3 85 76 53 99

7 6 8 7 4 5 9 51 13 26 38

6 3 9 7 2 4 9 7 8 2 5 6 16 2 31 5 87 9 44 1

1 8 5 3 9 84 43 96 27 52

9 5 7 5 3 11 24 42 96 78

8 1 6 4 2 37 99 84 13 65

2 4 3 6 5 7 8 68 92 15 73

2 6 7 5 8 1 Daily Sudoku: Thu 18-May-2017 very hard 9 6 7 2 8 1 3 5 4 4 5 2 9 3 6 8 http://www.dailysudoku.com Word of the week7 1 3 1 8 4 5 7 6 2 9

Cantankerous

Daily Sudoku: Thu 25-May-2017

As the Sun eases further into your sector of personal finances, you may feel moved to take stock of your present situation and do what you can to improve matters. If you’re looking for any expensive items, you’ll also be seeking a bargain, and you’ll be willing to negotiate in order to get one. However, a more stubborn link suggests that you could lose out if you push someone too hard, so knowing when to stop would be helpful.

medium

adjective [pee-vish]

Disagreeable to deal with; Contentious; Peevishhttp://www.dailysudoku.c

Crossword

With reference to Wimbledon what connects Roger Federer, Stefan Edberg, Pat Cash and Bjorn Borg?

Which one of the 22 scheduled languages of India is unique in the sense that it uses different scripts (Kannada, Nagari, Roman, Malayalam and even Perso-Arabic) depending on who uses it or where?

When Swami Vivekananda was travelling to Chicago on the ship “Empress of India” to speak at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in 1893, he met a famous Indian and talked with him about scientific education in India. Who was the fellow Indian, and what did this chance meeting lead to? Anustup Datta, Bengaluru This quiz has been brought to you by Brain Jam, a property of Priya Communications

Garfield by Jim Davis

Across

Down

1 Forbid (8) 6 Health resort (3) 9 Furious (5) 10 European language (7) 11 Deserved (7) 13 Bread maker (5) 14 Dismal (6) 15 Important person (4-2) 19 Money bag (5) 21 Mythical winged horse (7) 22 Lottery (7) 23 South American country (5) 24 No (3) 25 Erasing (8)

2 Drive backwards (7) 3 Possessed (3) 4 Next to (6) 5 Quivering (9) 6 Adhere (5) 7 Detest (5) 8 Held responsible (6) 12 Triple (9) 16 Cloth made of jute (7) 17 Went by (6) 18 Lie with limbs spread out (6) 19 Donned (3,2) 20 Card game (5) 23 Puss (3)

A strong focus on your communication zone offers you a chance to connect with neighbors and others in your area. This opportunity to reach out could prove very rewarding if it helps to bring your local community closer together. At the same time, it might be wise to avoid upsetting someone in authority. Either agree to disagree or find a way to compromise. Arguing certainly won’t help. The New Moon on May 25 can bring a chance to take a brilliant idea further.

Last week’s solution

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Trotter

24-Year-Old Adult Movie Star shot to fame by playing a child’s role

ot many of us have been to the mind-boggling depths of the world of pornography. But even so, most of us have a fair idea of the absolute bizarreness that characterises the realm of sexual deviance and erotic fetishes. And according to Vice, in this realm of perfectly sculpted sex machines, one man stood out. Star of several porn films, actor and producer Kohey Nishi - also known as Nishikun - is a 24-yearold guy that happens to look like a child of no more than 12. This mystery man-child standing at 3 feet 6 inches, has featured in several pornographic films where he is babied, nursed and

coddled by women whom he and/ or his other co-stars then proceed to have steamy sex with. Having started out with one of the biggest Japanese porn conglomerates, Nishi has craftily marketed himself as the guy that looks uncannily like a child. “There is no one who is an adult and looks like a kid more than me! And not just for the porn industry. You cannot cast actual kids sometimes [in non-pornographic content], so I’d like to fill the gap in that market.” - Kohey Nishi told Vice. Diagnosed at birth with Mucopolysaccharidosis, a progressive incurable disease, Nishi still fights

physical limitations - from having a dangerously weak spinal column and not being able to stand on his feet for more than 5 minutes to limited hearing in his left ear and difficulties opening a plastic bottle - with persistence and hard-work. Now a star of several classic pornos such as ‘Having Sex in the Magic Mirror Box Car with a Female College Student with F-Cup Breasts Who Wants to Be a Kindergarten Teacher’, Nishi is also starkly aware of the social significance of his work. “I was once told, ‘Your videos seem dangerous as you look like a real kid on screen.’ But I have considered that my works prevent children from being sexually abused, just like war movies and shooter video games can contribute to peace.” When asked if he has any advice for shorter men who feel their height hinders their popularity among the ladies, he said that it really doesn’t matter that how tall one is and that charm is a combination of several factors that can be worked on and strengthened. A former computer programmer, Nishi has aspirations outside of the porn industry as well and expressed his desire to perform in non-erotic dramas and movies in the future. (Source: ScoopWhoop)

Gordon Ramsay and Kevin Spacey in incredible F-Word swear off

ordon Ramsay was never the shy and retiring type. The wildly successful celebrity chef has earned his millions – not to mention fame and notoriety – by becoming the veritable antithesis of those traits; brash, loud, rude and above all gloriously unapologetic. There is something strangely relaxing about settling down to watch one of Ramsay’s bonkers television shows during which he unleashes his trademark savage attacks on the hapless participants. As you will probably be aware, Ramsay has something of a penchant for the F word, so much so, in fact, that he centred the name of a television show around his favourite expletive. In fact, outside of his obvious culinary adroitness, swearing and astonishing tirades of anger are practically the chef’s defining features. It appears, though, that the celebrity chef might have finally found his match in the motor mouthed arena of blue language, after a video of the potty mouthed

chef and legendary actor Kevin Spacey emerged online. After reports abound that Gordon Ramsay would be bring his rip-roaring television show the F Word to United States screens, what appears to be a clip from the new show surfaced, featuring none other than Frank Underwood himself: Kevin Spacey. As soon as the clip starts rolling, Spacey starts dropping f-bombs like they’re going out of fashion, with a brash, “excuse me, we’re f****** filming!” directed towards some imagined background chatter. From there, never a second passes without another expletive being thrown into the metaphorical mixing bowl, with most of the f-words surprisingly thrown into

the mix by Spacey himself, as Gordon Ramsay looks on with the adulation of a man who has just met a true kindred spirit. According to Gordon Ramsey’s YouTube channel, Kevin Spacey will be the first guest on the all-new F Word, and if this short gem of a clip is anything to go by, it is sure to be an absolutely rip-roaring first episode. Fans seem to concur. The clip, only uploaded to YouTube yesterday, has already garnered hundreds of thousands of views, with commentators giddy with glee over the extensive expletives that permeate the minute long teaser. The F’s referred to in the F Word title are apparently intended to be “fun, food and family”, rather than the alternative F word that Ramsay and Spacey seem to enjoy so. As Ramsay told Us Weekly, though, some collateral expletives are likely on the new show, “I’ve been given, hopefully, a three-second delay, so if any naughty f****s fall out, they’ll catch it. (Source: Viral Thread)

World’s first real-life Robocop to go on duty

he city of Dubai has just unveiled its own real-life version of Robocop to fight crime in the precinct, although chances are you’ll find it more terrifying than cool. The blank-faced, wheeled robot was revealed to the public on Monday at the Gulf Information Security Expo and Conference. Standing at a height of 5 ft and weighing approximately 220 lbs, the Emirates Robocop has a variety of high-tech functions to help tackle crime, although unfortunately, none of them involve badass gunfights or jetpacks. Robocop can scan and read the facial expressions of the people who interact with it, and react accordingly in six different languages. The Khaleej Times also reports that Robocop can employ facial-recognition software to identify offenders, and broadcast live video feeds. It can also transmit

and receive notifications from police headquarters, and also boasts of a built-in tablet that Dubai citizens can use to pay fines and report crimes. It also has two prehensile hands, and can provide a nifty salute upon request. Brigadier-General Khalid Nasser Al Razzouqi, Director-General of Smart Services with the Dubai Police, stated, “With an aim to assist and help people in the malls or on the streets, the Robocop is the latest smart addition to the force and has been designed to help us fight crime, keep the city safe and improve happiness levels. He can chat and interact, respond to public queries, shake hands and offer a military salute.” Dubai officials are apparently hopeful that they can staff 25% of the police force with machines by 2030, which sounds pretty damn dystopian. (Source: Viral Thread)

Student banned from walking at graduation ceremony because she’s pregnant

raduation is the culmination of years of hard work, blood, sweat and tears. Sadly though, Maddie Runkles, an 18-year-old high school student from Maryland, looks set to endure a rather different graduation to the one she might have envisaged during her years of education. The 18-year-old is strictly anti-choice, and she also happens to be pregnant. Runkles has a 4.0 GPA, is a star of the school soccer team and was a member of the student council, but she will not be able to walk in her own graduation ceremony. This is because students at Heritage Academy, a small private Christian learning institution, are required to adhere to a “statement of faith” which includes the stipulation that “no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of the marriage commitment between a man and a woman.” Being as she is ardently an-

ti-choice, Runkles will not choose to lose the child she is carrying, and in the very act of continuing to carry her baby, appears to have lost the support of a community to which she has given so much. She made the courageous decision to choose life, and she definitely should not be shamed. There has got to be a way to treat a young woman who becomes pregnant in a graceful and loving way. For his part, the chairman of the board of the Association of Christian Schools International has spoken of the school’s need to set an example. It seems more than a little unfair to Runkles, who seems to have done exactly as she was brought up to do; even allegedly admitting to her pregnancy in front of the whole school before asking for their forgiveness. Her family will hold a graduation ceremony for the 18-year-old themselves the day after her peers walk the stage at her school. (Source: Viral Thread)

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

G Talk E

Baptism by fire

t has been a strange year for the state, hasn’t it? One filled with obsessive monitoring of a government that was virtually unanimously voted to power. There has been political tug-o-war for ministerial berths, threats of pulling out of the coalition et al and yet, the huge consoling factor has been the political stability coupled with a sense of purpose and self-belief that the government has managed to portray. To be fair to the current government, its incumbency was a case of baptism by fire. It did not have a honeymoon. And from accounts, the government has actually done well on several fronts even though a lot of ticklish issues remain to be tackled. Plenty of positives come to the mind and these include Assamese being made a compulsory subject in all schools up to Grade 10, bringing in investments and so employment through the Patanjali Group, the announcement of AIIMS at its most logical site within Kamrup, state revenues rising by 21 percent, reduction in tax rates on tea exports, the Centre releasing oil royalty in the very first year, other reforms initiated in the education sector – especially SEBA

and finally, among other achievements, the crusade against corruption and the chief minister’s pledge to continue the same tenaciously. The city itself has been witness to a number of good developments; expediting and speeding up the new Saraighat Bridge tops the list. Yes, it has been an efficient executive and despite its politically constrained cabinet, there is a profound sense of positivity pervading the air. But plenty of work remains to be done not to forget the jaati, maati and bheti poll promise. The rest include the foreigners’ infiltration, the big corrupt fishes continuing to evade the net, the continuing inflation, the undercurrent of communal disharmony stemming from recent political machinations, and the border remaining open, unsealed. One year has been completed and PM Modi found the occasion apt to visit the city and further announce a slew of schemes for the state’s development – the big one being Kisaan Sampada Yojna which promises to double farmers’ income by 2022. Yes, there is an air of positivity abounding today. The baptism by fire has paid off. Swapnil Bharali Editor

GUWAHATI ADDA The Blue Hue G-Guy 1: Did you check out the new uniform the GTP was issued? G-Guy 2: Yeah, it’s a nice blue colour. Makes them look like Indian Air Force officers. G-Guy 1: Hoi de! Bor Air Force officers lage tuk. Aru kiman hava turabi yohotok? G-Guy 2: No man, it’s not that. Their performance has definitely seen an improvement. There’s this one traffic official at Ulubari who sports an aviator and rides a bullet. He’s been doing a fantastic job putting things in order. Even if there is no reduction in traffic, I certainly feel there is some streamlining in that previously chaotic junction. The number of helmets has definitely increased. At least it looks that way. G-Guy 1: Eh you optimistic fellow! Say whatever you want to, it’s all going to be the same! They were corrupt, they will continue to be corrupt. G-Guy 2: Okay, here’s an instance of ‘poriborton’. Modi could’ve been any-

Opinion

Things Haven’t Changed

s the routine 10 ‘O clock siren at U Soso Thanm Auditorium in Shillong came to an end, the first note from Lou Majaw’s guitar kick started the 76th Bob Dylan Birthday Celebrations with “When your mother sends back all your invitations…” on 24th May, 2017. Indeed “Queen Jane Approximately” added a new spark to the all-star lineup of Uday Benegal, Sonia Saigal, Ranjan Palit, Lim and the Hellhounds, The Asusciates and the legend himself – Lou Majaw - for the celebration of poetry and songs. This year, North East Council (NEC) joined hands with Lou’s foundation to be a part of the Dylan happiness. It all began in the early 70s - probably 1972 - a couple of years after he discovered Dylan’s music. Lou Majaw has held a celebration in his honour in Meghalaya bringing together folk and rock-androll artistes from across the country. That’s a good 47 years of dedicated celebration of Nobel laureate Bob Dylan’s birthday in Shillong by forever young Lou Majaw, who is as old and vibrant as independent India. “No matter what, come rain come shine, I made it a point to go ahead with the celebrations on 24th May as always.” Going back to the concert hall the next two hours was sheer good time with students from various schools and colleges of Shillong town along with their rocking teachers. In his now-customary combination of yellow and red socks and his short shorts Majaw dominated the stage along with Arjun Sen on lead

Sattyakee D’com Bhuyan

guitar, Sam on Drums and Ribor Cunville on Keys. The chosen songs were quite varied - some obvious, some less well-known - as it should be apart from the Majaw originals with “Across the Sea of Sorrow” taking the cake. The much acclaimed Jazz singer Sonia Saigal was breathtakingly brilliant with her set and thanks to Lou for baptizing her flashy red covered iPad Pro for a slate – now beat that. Moreover, the show came out of the gate hard and worked itself up to a crescendo with all artists belting out Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door at least once if not more. “For perhaps to understand Dylan and the depth and magnitude of his work, you need to understand life first and that is not an easy task,” marked Lou at the end of the first leg. The second leg started on the dot of 3 at Cafe Shillong in Litumkhurah; not a single seat was left empty alongside the comfy leather

sofas. Poet and folklorist Desmond L Kharmawphlang and his students, Rahul Guha Roy, Ranjan Palit amongst others enthralled everyone with their renderings. Nevertheless, enough of the celebration is here to suggest its triumph - and all were reminded that the fountainhead of all of this music by the mercurial music legend Bob Dylan was still alive! There’s no need to restate Bob Dylan’s influence - he’s the greatest songwriter of the rock era and his impact extends well beyond music. On a personal note for me it all started with the transcendent Bah Lou in Shillong and growing up under his musical and life skills guidance was exuberance in itself. He spearhead-

ed a spate of bands like The Great Society, Fentones, Super Sound Factory, Blood and Thunder, Sons of Adam, Eleventh Commandment, Underdog Band, Meghalaya Love Project, Lou Majaw and Friends and his Foundation. However, it was with The Great Society that his brilliant and soul stirring writings took shape. Lou achieved this status only by doing as he, and nobody, else saw fit. I have seen many finales at multi-guest concerts. However curiously and typically, this one was an obvious one to me. To top it all “Knockin on Heaven’s Door” gave everyone room to shine, improvise, and resulted in one fantastic group hug. That was the case here in Shillong. It was my deep personal pleasure that I could be part of it. The very next day the star studded squad with Arjun Sen on lead guitars, Sonia, Uday and Lou came down to Guwahati and created together yet another fun-filled extended evening of music, celebration and happiness and launched the youngest member of Café Shillong at Guwahati Address alongside their aesthetic and classy restaurant “Weaves & Leaves.” Towards the extended part of the evening, Sumon Dutta, Amlandeep Das, Tuk Tuk and Rittique joined to take it forward. However, glory be with the renowned hotelier from Shillong, Larsing Ming Sawyan, Managing Director, Centre Point Group Enterprise, and his team for creating a tasteful space in Guwahati. For episodes like these it all depends on how you are feelin’…as the answer is simply blowin’ in the wind…so don’t think twice. It’s alright and things haven’t changed. On that note, I wanted to ask Bah Lou “Something is happening here 47 years but you don’t know what it is, do you Mr. Majaw?” Sattyakee is founder director at D’ Passion Collective and a thespian fighting a good fight, one act at a time!

where in the world, flying around, but he chose to come to Guwahati and Assam for the AIIMS foundation, Gogamukh Chariali Foundation and Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Bridge. These things make a difference. Because of him Bhupen Hazarika, Dhola-Sadiya was trending on Twitter for over 4 hours!

r Harsh reality

G-Guy 1: Teen saal ho gaye, digital ki ratt lagana kab bandh karoge?

G-Guy 2: “Main nahi maanta ki hamara desh duniya ka sabse mahaan desh hai, lekin yeh zaroor maanta hoon ki hum mein kaabiliyat hai apne desh ko mahaan banane ki. Yeh dono desh ek doosre se har pehlu, har roop mein ek-doosre se alag hain... Jab bhi hum muqaable mein dabne lagte hain toh hum ek hi cheez ka aadhar lete hain - sanskaar, parampara.. *continues speaking the entire dialogue from Swades* G-Guy 1: Abey chup bey Swades ke Shahrukh. Chal Sallu bhai ki Tubelight ki tickets book kar! SIDHARTH BEDI VARMA

Letter to the Editor

avi Shankar Prasad, I&B minister of the union cabinet recently ignited a hornet’s nest by stating that a particular community is not with the NDA government. It was naturally a God sent opportunity for our so called secular forces to jump into the fray to create an issue. I feel whatever the I&B Minister opined is a harsh reality and today in Indian politics harsh realities are hardly digested and accepted by our current crop of politicians. Like in Kashmir, this was the home of Pandits and is now occupied by some infidels. But sadly political masters of the nation have always tended to ignore it. Those who evicted the Kashmiri pandits from their abode are all Mujahideens. Now who are Mujahideens? Are they intruders or refugees? The answer is obviously intruders backed by Pakistani ISI agency. There is a glaring difference between intruders and refugees which our politicians are refusing to accept due to their vested political interests. Lanu Dutt Chowdhury, GNB Road, Guwahati.

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

In Focus

Priyana Kalita Tennis Player

n example of sheer motivation and one who has proven that dreams can be achieved through hard work and focus, Priyana Kalita is one such name to celebrate. Guwahati’s own international junior tennis player, Priyana has obtained a sports’ scholarship for a four-year undergraduate (Bachelors) programme at Miami University in the US for her achievements in various junior international tournaments in 2016-17. During the programme, the promising tennis player will be entitled to Rs 1.35 crores as academic scholarship to complete her bachelor’s degree in sports leadership and management. However, the achievement has not come easy and the 18-year-old had to carve her way through while fighting criticism, pessimism, financial constraints and her plump body structure. Priyana started playing tennis at North East Tennis Foundation in Guwahati from the age of 10 and had been training under Shiv Kumar Prajapati for the past eight years. She has also undergone training in Delhi at the Team Tennis Academies at Siri Fort Sports Complex under Aditya Sachdeva. Born to businessman father Gautam Kalita and homemaker

mother Nita Kalita, Priyana was enrolled into the tennis classes for fitness and health. “There were several health hazards during the initial stages. I had dust allergy and I was really plump but over the years all the running around has helped me overcome the hurdles. But a major obstacle was the lack of financial support. I come from a middle-class family and bearing the expenses of my travel put a lot of pressure on my parents. There was a time when I even left tennis as I was not being able to perform well and that put me under a lot of pressure. For almost four months in 2015, I had not even touched my racquet but after my coach and my parents made me understand, I gathered all my spirit and by the end of the same year I started performing well,” the tennis player shared with G Plus. However, there were several obstacles that awaited Priyana before she could attain the rank of 490 among 2,000 players in the international junior circuit. For any sportsperson, just one’s set of skills does not suffice the requirement of earning the much deserved glory but financial support plays a major role. Priyana has faced a similar situation throughout her career so far. Apart

from the equipments, there were travel expenses to different states as well as countries and she was solely dependent on her father’s support for the same. There were even occasions when she had to skip tournaments. The young talent however managed to overcome all such hurdles and claimed the State Championship in just three years of her foray into tennis. She also claimed the All India Super Series Tennis Tournament held in the city in 2012 and became the first local girl to claim the title. Priyana has never looked back ever since and has only moved ahead conquering all the barriers while chasing her dream. “No one used to believe me then but it had always been my target to travel to the US as for a middle-class family it is like a dream. Although I have always been in pursuit of this dream the realization only happened in the last 10-11 months. After I shifted to Delhi my target was to improve my international ranking. I was somewhere around 1800 but only those in the top 500 have better chances of getting a scholarship and I had only one year in hand. The first tour was to Sri Lanka where I performed very badly and my father, who usually only gives his feedback, got really angry with me. Then, after a gap of two months, I started at snail’s speed and even then I could not perform due to the fear of not being able to continue playing,” Priyana mentioned. The young tennis player was

given one more tournament by her father and travelled to Pune. It was also the first time that she had travelled alone. The tournament in Pune worked as a confidence booster and she went on participate in tournaments in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. But while Priyana pursued her dreams her share of hurdles accompanied her. The tennis player suffered an injury in Thailand during a practice session. She injured her knees, groin and her hand. Despite being injured to the extent that she would start bleeding in the midst of the match she chose to continue in the tournament. Her sheer will-power and hard work brought her one step closer to her dream. The young sportsperson wishes to be a part of all of the grand slams and be listed among the top five players in the world. An alumnus of Holy Home Senior Secondary School here where Priyana studied from 2001 to 2015, she believes that everyone who has been a part of her life has been her support system. Although it is said that sports and education work well together it is not the same in Indian society. However, with the support of her parents, teachers, friends, coaches and many more Priyana has also been able to claim academic achievements. At present, Priyana is pursuing her higher secondary under National Institute of Open

Schooling and will move to Miami on 14th August this year. Among several feathers to her cap, Priyana has won 26 national level titles, 18 state titles and recently achieved an international junior rank of 490 from among over 2,000 players in the international junior circuit. She was the Asian junior (under-14) doubles runner-up in 2011. She was also a medallist in the 59th National School Games in 2014. Hardworking and focussed, she is confident that she can make it to the top.

Guwahati Traffic Police gets a new colour scheme for their uniform. The new uniform comprises sky blue shirt, dark trousers, a lighter belt that allows carrying of police accessories like batons, etc and a Pee cap. Here are a few public reactions to the same Arup Ananda Bhattacharjee

Nice dress. They look like the US cops. But what about duty timings as after 8 pm we do not see even a single traffic police person at the major crossings and red lights. Does the traffic stop after 8 pm in our city? At least they should be on duty up to 9 pm positively.

Rupankan Goswami What is the need of changing the dress code of traffic police of Guwahati when they do not respect and value their own job? They always act as spectators when a city bus blocks a street for more than 10 minutes waiting for passengers or when some minors ride bikes at very high speeds putting other commuters on the streets in danger. And the second point: why only Guwahati? What about Tezpur, Jorhat, Dibrugarh etc.? Sanjay Singha This is also part of the modernisation of police. And for information, these uniforms are generally stitched by war widows or through welfare centres where wives of lower ranked personnel do the job to cover their expenses. Surjya Gogoi Great....The coloured uniforms will be better as it is difficult to maintain the white uniforms. Besides, a change in uniform may bring about better work culture and ethics amongst them.

Jyoti Rekha Bora This is a great move and will definitely improve the traffic policeman’s confidence and sense of fulfilment of duty. I always used to wonder why it should be white in our dusty environment amidst the traffic chaos. It must have been so difficult to maintain their white uniforms. Kishan Pandia Hopefully the new smart uniform would make them smart in their performance. The problems we are all facing just because of their negligence. Looking forward to seeing enhanced quality performance. Mishon Deori The uniform is good but not better than the white one. But it is good in terms of our dirty environment. As somebody said the need is not uniform, it’s the proper training they require to help the public, to know about zebra crossing, the demarcation line, train vehicle owners to respect the pedestrians, not to ride bikes on footpaths. They should be given the training to stop or fine a Fortuner or an Audi if found guilty, and stop harassing a Maruti 800 or a Santro. They should be trained that a traffic signal is for both a motor vehicle and a rickshaw puller. They should be trained to stand in a proper place to give signals and stop scolding people from a distant corner. I respect these personnel who do their duty under the cruel sun and rain, but please stop harassing the weaker ones.

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Reviews Cast: Geoffrey Rush, Javier Bardem, Johnny Depp, Kaya Scodelario, Orlando Bloom Director: Espen Sandberg and Joachim Rønning

hrust into an all-new adventure, a down-onhis-luck Captain Jack Sparrow finds the winds of ill-fortune blowing strongly his way when deadly ghost sailors, led by the terrifying Captain Salazar (Javier Bardem), escape from the Devil’s Triangle bent on killing every pirate at sea—notably Jack. Jack’s only hope of survival lies in the legendary Trident of Poseidon, but to find it he must forge an uneasy alliance with Carina Smyth (Kaya Scodelario), a brilliant and beautiful astronomer, and Henry (Brenton Thwaites), a headstrong young sailor in the Royal Navy. At the helm of the Dying Gull, his pitifully small and shabby ship, Captain Jack seeks not only to reverse his recent spate of ill fortune, but to save his very life from the most formidable and malicious foe he has ever faced. With the (Disney-friendly) theme of parenthood woven throughout Jeff Nathanson’s (Catch Me If You Can) script, Revenge introduces new directors, new heroes and one of the best Pirates villains the franchise has seen in the shape of Javier Bardem’s titular seaman.

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Stuck in the Devil’s Triangle, this ghostly captain – brilliantly augmented with CGI – seeks vengeance on Sparrow for reasons that become clear later on. Also entwined in the story is Henry (Brenton Thwaites), son to Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann, who is desperate to unlock his father (Orlando Bloom) from his below-sea curse. When Henry encounters Salazar, it leads him to Sparrow, as well as Kaya Scodelario’s orphan astronomer Carina, “a woman of science” who is probably the only one smart enough to find the Trident of Poseidon, the ocean-controlling, curse-lifting MacGuffin everyone’s after. And in case you were missing him, Geoffrey Rush’s now-wealthy rival pirate Barbossa gets roped in, too. Norwegian directing duo Joachim Rønning and Espen Sandberg (2012’s seafaring epic Kon-Tiki) nail their first major blockbuster with some aplomb. The pacing is spot-on, the set-pieces memorable and all the characters are allowed to shine, without it ever becoming The Johnny Depp Show.

Cast: Alexandra Daddario, Dwayne Johnson, Zac Efron Director: Seth Gordon

veryone in Baywatch seems amused to be in a movie version of Baywatch—how could they not be? (Their expressions range from “Is this really happening?” to “This is really happening.”) The laughs in director Seth Gordon’s surprisingly fun and self-mocking comedy don’t sneak up on you so much as hail you from a mile off with an air horn and then bonk you over the head as you approach. This is a film in which lifeguard Dwayne Johnson leaps out of the water (in slo-mo) with a rescued paraglider in his arms, while porpoises flip behind him in celebration. That moment also brings the film’s title, text rising from the deep like a repressed giggle that won’t go away. The generous—radical?—thing about Hollywood’s version of the tush-ogling ’90s TV phenomenon is that, pretty quickly, it makes you feel in on the joke. Taking lessons from 2012’s wonderfully silly 21 Jump Street (in which Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill scientifically proved that bad television need not result in bad filmmaking), Baywatch

Album Kids In The Street By Justin Townes Earle

ustin Townes Earle pulls off the feat quite nicely on Kids In The Street, demonstrating impressive versatility without getting tripped up by any single stylistic detour. Kids In The Streets sounds joyous, reflective, nostalgic and even grateful in places, with an upbeat swagger that comes from knowing you’re making the album of your life. Thankfully, he quickly debunks any clichés about artists needing to be tortured on Kids, which marks the grown-up Earle’s glorious return to form. Kids in the Street doesn’t sound or feel like a masterpiece, but it does suggest Earle was aiming higher than expected for this album, and he hit the target--this is among his very

owns its preposterousness with every barked line of self-serious dialogue and stuffed-to-bursting wet suit. The actors are what save it. Not only does Johnson build on his subversive  persona of hulking, dim-witted likability,  but he’s joined by Neighbors’ Zac Efron, today’s reigning king of the hazy one-liner, who plays cocky yet disgraced Olympic swimmer Matt Brody, nicknamed the Vomit Comet. Because this is Baywatch, we’re still talking about a deliberately crude experience), but at least the camera is an equal-opportunity lech. True Detective’s Alexandra Daddario bring a winking awareness and unprudish confidence to their roles as hypervigilant beach candy. Subversively, the plot’s villain is an evil real estate tycoon in high heels, making Baywatch the Trumpiest thing in the world. The best compliment you can pay this film is that when Pamela Anderson and David Hasselhoff do show up for their somewhat desperate cameos.

Game Persona 5 Platform Playstation 4

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best work to date. The follow-up [to Absent Fathers] is an even more impressive progression. Marriage and impending fatherhood bring both focus and exuberance to Earle’s seventh album. Other than the classic Western shuffle “What’s She Crying For,” with its piano sprinkles and steel guitar swerves, Kids In The Street marks the emancipation of Justin Townes Earle. The son of original post-country maverick Steve Earle, much of the lanky songwriter’s output has carried the shadow of his DNA, whether the laconic “Nothing’s Gonna Change The Way You Feel About Me Now” or the languid Americana Song of the Year “Harlem River Blues.”

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ersona 5 brings a new twist to the RPG genre. Assume the role of a second-year high school student who becomes a Persona-user through an unexpected incident. Having moved to Tokyo just before the start of the school year, he finds residence at a cafe run by his parents’ friend, and is about to get his first taste of school life in the big city. The protagonist seems quiet and well-mannered at first glance, but gives a completely different impression once he has donned his “phantom thief” guise. What is the motivation of his alter ego...? Arsene is the protagonist’s initial Persona, characterized by a mask-like face and a pair of huge, black wings. Some suspect an as-

sociation between its name and the famous gentleman-thief, Arsene Lupin. What is the origin of this Persona, and what power does it hold? This is an account of the wild adventures experienced by a team of young misfits, who grow dramatically along the way. While attending Shujin High School, the protagonist will encounter a number of individuals, each with his or her own distinctive personality and charm. School life in the city is full of surprises and interesting events! It will most definitely be a fun year for the protagonist, living as an ordinary student. However, he and his friends become involved in an incident which leads to the awakening of their Personas.

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G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Lifestyle

VAASTU SHASTRA

The Key to Being Happy

Vaastu ways for a happy home

ome simple Vaastu rules can transform the energy pattern of your house. Many of them are more of common sense. Remove all dirt, wash your feet before entering the house and keep the house well-lit to keep the energy of the house positive. Remove clutter from your house and throw away old, unused items. They are breeding grounds for negative energy. Do not bring dirty shoes inside the house. The northeast should be avoided for placing the shoe rack or dust bin. Keep the northeast, north and east clean, open and lighter. It is lucky to have some plants inside the house. But do not have thorny or milk producing plants. If your house is close to some tree, make sure that the twigs or branches are not touching or coming inside the house. They can bring insects, germs etc. Do not have creepers on the wall or roof of the house. They

block sunrays and energy. Ensure that there are no sharp edges in the house. They radiate harmful energy. Do not keep the thrash can inside the house and hide the broom or vacuum cleaner from eyesight. The kitchen should be in the southeast corner of the house and it should not be adjacent to a toilet or puja room. Northwest is the next option. Mirrors should be kept only at north or east and covered when not in use as they attract negative energy. Do not have a mirror directly

in front of the bed. Keep the master bedroom at southwest and other rooms at west and south. Sleep with head to south. The bedroom should be well done up with soft colours. Do not keep electronic gadgets in the bedroom as they radiate electronic waves. Keeping a water body with flowing water at northeast brings positive energy. An aquarium is very good to have at north. The main entrance should be always kept clean and there should be a nameplate. The nameplate should not be worn out or discoloured. The toilet, kitchen or the puja room should not be directly visible immediately after entering the house. There should not be a staircase, pole, tree or lift in front of the main door. Hang wind chimes on windows or doors to have positive energy vibrations. Hemanta Kumar Sarmah Engineer, Businessman, Advanced Pranic Healer and Su Jok Acupressure specialist.

ood, good! Good to be a joker, than to be too serious. Have fun in the world. The short time we’ll be on this planet we should make ourselves happy and others happy. What is there to brood over? And if you feel things are insufficient - people can keep feeling insufficiency throughout their life. You know, even billionaires feel insufficient because they have big debt. You have a billion dollars, and then you put that into some factory or industry to multiply it. In order to do that you borrow more money. And then it all goes on, and you feel so burdened with so much of loan on your head. You come to square one. So it is very strange. People who do not have anything, sometimes, they look much more happier than the billionaires on this planet. Billionaires are burdened I tell you, really burdened and afraid. Many of them are under such pressure. I’m not saying that you should remain a poor person, or anything like that. No, I want you to understand that you must de-link

Five ways toLighter aceandthe summer look faster I Scan the QR code t is that time of the year again when the temperature is rising, legs are getting barer and sleeves are getting shorter. Yes, SUMMER IS HERE. Summers is heading soon and you need to hit the streets in high

fashion. Be it brunching with your friends or attending the dinner party at a high end restaurant; you need to look photo-ready and glamorous for all your social events.

The Free-spirit Look

The retro fringed look is back this summer with crocheted necklines, tassels and fringes on the hemlines. Add a little shimmer to wardrobe by choosing beaded fringes instead. You can team this

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Here’s a style guide for you to breeze through this season without breaking a sweat

Summer Whites

That crisp white cotton shirt is the ultimate summer staple for anyone. Add a little jazz to your summer whites with a touch of gold and silvers. Pair it up with semi-formal trousers and loafers. Opt for metallic hoops to keep up with the mood. Check out brands like Zara and Wills Lifestyle and don’t forget the newly launched designer label - Door of Maai.

look with a two-string tan leather sandals or leather gladiators. Check out the online stores of Accessorize India and Forever 21 for dresses and hats.

jackets to make a bold statement. Women can work this look by playing up the striped shirt dress with a distressed jeans and a pair of sports shoes for a casual day look. You can also layer it up with a fitted bodycon dress in bold colours and stilettos for an evening look. Men can lookout for pinstripes in fabrics like denims and coarse woven fabrics. Brands like Van Heusen and TopShop are the all-time favourites.

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Dress up the stripes 8486002318/8486002320

Get on board with us

Stripes are going to be the trendsetters for this season. Be it horizontal or vertical, team it with floral prints or patchwork denim

Men can stick to more subtle earthy hues and tactile fabrics for the summer wardrobe edit. Layering and mix-and-match of different shades of neutrals can break the monotony and yet keep the look sophisticated. Check out brands like Khanijo and Antar-Agni for more inspiration on this look.

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your happiness with your status, with your wealth, with your post or with your position. Happiness has nothing to do with your position in society, your position in the world, your position in your company, or wherever you are. Happiness should be de-linked from all that. You should make it a habit to be content and happy. It’s just a habit, that’s all. Unconsciously it gets into our mind, so unconsciously we start being unhappy. Though there is no reason to be unhappy, it has crept into your subconscious mind, “Oh I am unhappy”. Or we keep complaining, “This is no good, that is no good, nothing is good, nothing is okay, I don’t like anything”. We need to be cautious about this sort of negativity. We need to guard our mind and our consciousness from being swept away by this sort of negative tendency. shri shri ravi shankar Founder- Art of Living Foundation.

Lacy Elegance

Lace and shoulder revealing tops are the ultimate style mantra of any fashionista out there. From boardrooms to ballrooms, laces can go anywhere if styled in the right manner. Pick a strapless blouse or peasant top for a sultry evening look. Invest in a designer bikini top for a relaxed look or go for neutral tube tops for a more conservative styling. Koovs and Stalk.Buy.Love are the must-see online stores for lacy tops.

…it’s time to make the streets your runway!

Jahnabi Mitra A Psychology graduate who writes to keep herself busy on long weekends. Believes in art and fashion as therapy.

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Entertainment

‘Aei Maatite’ to release on Audio release of Assamese film ‘Tumi Aahibaane’ 6th October, 2017

Kalyan Kumar Kalita

inally, the big day has been announced! The first fulllength Assamese feature film on witch hunting problem, Aei Maatite, will be released on 6th October, 2017 across Assam. At a sober function held at Guwahati Press Club, Angeekar Films announced the release date of one of the most awaited Assamese feature films of the year – Aei Maatite. The film’s director, Dr Sitanath Lahkar and star actor, Mr Rupam Che-

tia were also present in the press conference, along with the film’s distributor Goenka Enterprises’ proprietor, Mr Shankar Lall Goenka and digital content providing company UFO Moviez India’s General Manager (Sales & Distribution) Mr Sourav Dutta. The movie is directed by independent filmmaker and eminent theatre personality Dr Sitanath Lahkar and it is an adaptation of his famous stage play “Tamasaa” on the burning problem of witch hunting. The story, screenplay, dialogues and lyrics have also been

penned by Dr Lahkar who happens to be a retired principal of Cotton College. The ‘action-drama’ film has some very critical scenes, shooting of which were done with utmost care and precision. Such type of rustic action scenes are hardly seen in Assamese films. The film cinematically showcases some of the inhuman killings in the name of witch hunting. Angeekar Films received the clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (Censor Board) for Aei Maatite with a U/A certificate without any cut or modification. Aei Maatite has a very strong message against witchcraft, upholding the value of scientific temperament and human life. The film mainly talks about the witch hunting problem in Assam and how a section of people are using witchcraft for their own interest. Witchcraft has no reason at all and is shrouded in darkness of superstition, which has to be overcome by the society – this is the intent of the film. n

Chandra Mudoi’s ‘Soi Gaaor Chompa’ released

The cast and crew of Tumi Ahibaane aboard Alfresco Grand

Kalyan Kumar Kalita

he music of the year’s most awaited Assamese feature film ‘Tumi Aahibaane’ was released recently in the presence of its cast and crew at a function held aboard Guwahati’s ‘Alfresco Grand’. For the first time ever in the history of Assamese cinema, the music launch was organized with a cruise. The music of the film has been scored by National

music apps. The film has been directed by Prerana Barbarooah and produced by Assam State Film (Finance and Development) Corporation Ltd. and Bibi Devi Barbarooah under the banner of Prerana Creations. Tumi Aahibaane is a musical romantic comedy. A clean and simple love story sprinkled with light hearted comedy, Tumi Aahibaane promises to deliver a feel-good experience to the viewers. Tarali Sharma’s music

Kalyan Kumar Kalita

here are some filmmakers in the Assamese film industry whose movies are highly awaited by the Assamese audiences. Well-known Assamese filmmaker Chandra Mudoi is one among them. His earlier movies were full of entertainment and were also commercial hits. Now, after a long break, he has brought a new venture to the Assamese movie lovers. Soi Gaaor Chompa, story-screenplay-direction-lyrics and tuned by Chandra Mudoi and produced by Mrinal Bin Qutub under the banner of ‘Sahil Creation’, released on 19th May in different theatres of the state. This film will make everyone fall in love over and over again as well as make everyone cry. The cast includes a number of Bengali artistes like Bishwajit Chakraborty, Joy Bhattacharya, Paulomi Banerjee and Irani Mukherjee, with Amrita Gogoi, Mrinal Bin Qutub and child artist Sahil Qutub Ahmed. The key role of the film ‘Chompa’ is played by Amrita Gogoi. She has worked very hard in properly portraying her character and people will be

A poster from the movie

able to see some realistic scenes in this role. The music is directed by Dony Hazarika while the songs have been rendered by Zubeen Garg, Arnab Chakraborty, Dikshu, Zublee, Mizee and Naba. The songs of the movie have already become a hit among the music lovers. The choreography is by Swapnajit Borkakoti and Ratul Das. Mumbai’s Jahir Sheikh is in

charge of the cinematography. The film has been edited by Pranjal Kashyap and Rituranjan Hatimuria, Di-colorist is Kolkata’s Sujit Karmakar, Vfx is by Abhijit, and costume has been designed by Kolkata’s Monik Bose. The production house is hoping that, like other movies of Chandra Mudoi, Soi Gaaor Chompa will also become successful in attracting crowds. n

award winning music director of Assam, Tarali Sharma. The film contains five songs of different flavors which are penned by Bibi Devi Barbarooah and beautifully rendered by Zubeen Garg, Tarali Sharma, Mrinal Baishnab, Akhu and Neelakshi Neog. All the songs have been recorded, mixed and mastered by Jintu Bordoloi at ‘Studio Dreams’. According to the producer, Tumi Aahibaane’s music will be available on all leading music apps. Notably, for the first time ever, the music of an Assamese film will be available in 250 countries in all leading

has contributed in taking the film to an ultimate cinematic experience. This multi starrer movie has Ravi Sarma and Barsha Rani Bishaya in the lead. Nipon Goswami, Arun Nath, Gunjan Bharadwaj, Moonmi Phukan, Bibhuti Bhushan Hazarika, Nilutpol Baruah, Pratibha Choudhury, Jyoti Bhuyan and Madhusmita Saikia constitute the star studded cast. The cinematography has been done by Pradip Daimary. According to the producer, the film will hit the theatre by the end of September this year. n

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Events Event: Ladies Night & Acoustic Night with Goonj Date: May 17

Event: Politics of Hate - Music Comedy and Chitchat with Daniel Langthasa Date: May 23

Are we living a simulated life inside a mother board? Or is this world real? From gau rakshak to Irom Sharmila, human shields and lip syncing, commodification of music and art of politics, Haflong to Kashmir - Daniel spoke and sang about everything. And we could not have enough. Daniel Langthasa perfoming at Back Benchers Cafe

NYX is now making a niche for itself with live music every Friday with its Acoustic Nights. Goonj was an amazing band that made NYX lively with their beautiful renditions.

RAISE YOUR VOICE. BE THE CHANGE. Presents

Ward No. 07 28th May, 2017 Ambikagiri Girls H.S. School, Central Gotanagar, Maligaon, Guwahati

In Association with

G PLUS MAY 27 - JUN 02, 2017

Catching Up Most shared story of the week

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he Guwahati Traffic Police received a visual upgrade this week with their summer white uniform being made sky blue. The move has drawn the entire city’s attention as the GTP is expected to upgrade not just with a uniform but also their performance, which has seen an upward trend over the past few months.

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Did you know?

Guwahati Planetarium

n important centre for scientific research and astronomical studies the Guwahati Planetarium was inaugurated on 17th August, 1994. The Planetarium has a dome shaped roof with sloping walls setting it apart from other planetarium designs and is an endeavour to cater to the scientific needs of the students and children. It is unrivalled as it is the only planetarium in Assam and the entire northeast. The Japanese Goto GX instrument is used in the planetarium. The GX starfield projector, the sky theatre's sound system and sixty special-effects projectors are included in the hardware. Goto also supplies the show software. The Guwahati Planetarium is an advanced and well-equipped planetarium. Located on MG road near the Gauhati High Court the planetarium organizes and conducts different programmes in an effort to educate the people about the universe and the mysteries it holds. It is claimed that Guwahati Planetarium witnesses an average footfall of 500 per day.

on the block

Dreamer. Nonchalant. Romantic. Introvert. A few words that I can relate with. Hello Readers, I’m Naina Patir, a fulltime accountant and a part-time lifestyle blogger. I graduated from Gauhati Commerce College in 2014 and joined as an accountant under Department of Panchayat and Rural Development in 2015. I bagged the Subtitle “Miss Lustrous Hair” in Miss Luit 2015 and made it to top 10 contestants of Pond’s Eclectic Model Hunt 2014. Mojo When I look at my life, much of it is neutral; that is, it could be anyone’s life.With a passion for writing, I gave birth to my blog site, where I capture all my thoughts. ‘Into My Alley’, my personal blog, is born out of my dream to live a life less ordinary. Link to my Blog: www.intomyalley.com Route in the woods I like the idea of setting goals based on my overall well-being. Down the line, I’d like to look back and see how far I’ve come and feel proud of my successes. I plan to be a stronger person. I hope to improve the ability to listen to my instincts and go with my guts because I’ve learned just how far that can take me. Photography by Abhiraj Bhattacharjee

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