G Plus Vol 7 Issue 43

@guwahatiplus | /c/gplusguwahati www.guwahatiplus.com

INSIDE

Volume 07 | Issue 43 Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020 Price `10 Pandemic making a deep adverse impact on specially abled children

PG 04

he Hindi speaking supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Assam are not happy with the state BJP leadership and are planning to raise their issues with the national leadership. The latest angst cropped up after the executive committee of the BJP office bearers’ list was announced recently. In the list of the BJP office bearers, only three names were seen as Hindi speaking which were from the Marwari community.

Office secretary of Purvottar Hindustani Sammelan, Ashok Kumar Roy, talking to G Plus said, “In 2016, all the Hindi speaking members of our organization supported the BJP and in around 15 constituencies the BJP registered victories because of our votes.” Adding that after the BJP came to power, the behavior of the state BJP leadership changed towards the Hindi speaking people. Other than Kripanath Mallah, no Hindi speaking citizen of Assam has got a BJP ticket, said the secretary.

He said that many a time the organization sought various help from the government for the development of the Hindi speaking citizens of Assam, but the government did not respond.

“In the list of BJP office bearers there is no representation of the Hindi speaking people of Assam,” said Roy. Another source in the BJP, talking to G Plus, said that around 500 emails have been already sent to the BJP national leadership raising the issue which somehow the state leadership has come to know about. Hence, the state leaders are convening a meeting which is slated to take place next week.

Ashok Kumar Roy said that their organization will very

Independence Day Celebrations Back at historic - Judges’ Field Centre Spread Pages 08-09

PG 05

Hindi speaking supporters miffed with BJP state leadership

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Majority of Guwahatians feel unsafe to go back to physical classrooms amidst pandemic

soon submit a memorandum to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP national president JP Nadda and Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal.

The Hindi speaking people will demand at least 15 BJP tickets from 15 constituencies where the majority voters are Hindi speaking.

Constituencies like Tinsukia, Borkhola, Marhgerita are some of the constituencies where the political victory is decided by Hindi speaking people.

Much of Assam’s politics has revolved around Bengalispeaking migrants, mostly from Bangladesh. Though Bengali speakers are indeed the largest linguistic group after the Assamese, the state is also home to significant populations that do not speak Assamese or Bengali as their mother tongue in the language census. They are the Hindi speakers. They number nearly 21 lakhs, according to the 2011 census. Most of them came in the 19th and early 20th centuries and trace their lineages to what are now Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.

During 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the Hindi speakers of Assam where unhappy with the BJP with decisions like NRC updation, Goods and Services Tax, Demonetisation etc. But they still voted for BJP giving them another chance. But this time the Hindi-speakers are upset and are seeking answers.

“We will require at least 15 seats in 2021 assembly elections,” said a Hindi speaking leader who has worked for the BJP since many years and feels let down. “We are working for the BJP in Assam since the days when BJP used to be considered a communal party here,” said the leader adding that now the BJP state leaders do not give them adequate respect.

What is the definition of

‘Assamese People’?

EXPLAINED High Level Committee’s recommendations on Clause 6 of Assam Accord Barasha Das @Barasha_mi2

O

n 11th August last, the High Level Committee on the implementation of Clause 6 of the Assam Accord made its report public.

The 14-member committee, headed by Justice Biplab Kumar Sharma, former judge of the Gauhati High Court was constituted on 15th July 2019 by the Ministry of Home affairs (North-East Division) to suggest measures and recommendations for proper implementation of Clause 6 of the Assam Accord.

The Committee submitted its report to chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal on 15th February last.

So why was it made public on 11th August?

Samujjal chief advisor

Bhattacharya, of All Assam

Kareng Phukan @guwahatiplus Students’ Union (AASU), stated that although the report was submitted five months back, the state as well as the central governments had not yet reported on the same.

“There is no clarity as well on whether the Assam government has handed it over to the Centre yet. As the government has remained quiet on its contents and about its implementation, we decided to make it public so that people in Assam know about it,” said Bhattacharya.

Background of the Assam Accord

The Assam Accord is a tripartite Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) signed between the representatives of the Assam Movement involving AASU, the state government and the Centre.

It was signed on 15th August 1985. It was the result of a sixyear long agitation - the Asom Andolan - that started in 1979, demanding the identification and deportation of all illegal foreigners, predominantly the Bangladeshi immigrants.

The problem of migration of people in Assam has a long history. The agitation was started under the leadership of AASU as the migration created problems for the indigenous population of the region in the socio-economic and cultural arena.

Nearly 860 people were killed in the Assam Agitation.

The students’ community sacrificed a year of their academic session amid the movement.

PG No - 02

2 Lead Story

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

What is the definition of

‘Assamese People’?

From page 01

Highlights of the Assam Accord

1st January 1966 shall be the base date and year for purpose of detection and deletion of foreigners.

All persons who came to Assam prior to 1st January, 1966 shall be regularised.

Persons who came after 1st Jan 1966 and up to 24th March 1971 shall be detected and their names deleted from the electoral list. However, their names shall be registered as per Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939 and Rules, 1939 and shall be restored to the electoral list on completion of ten years of their domicile in Assam.

All persons who came after 25th March, 1971 shall be detected and expelled.

Clause 6 of the Assam Accord The Clause stated that, “Constitutional, legislative and administrative safeguards, as may be appropriate, shall be provided to protect, preserve and promote the cultural, social, linguistic identity and heritage of the Assamese people.”

What is the controversy?

The AASU demanded the base date for the purpose of detection and deletion of foreigners to be 1951. However, in the Accord, the cut-off year was set as 1971. The National Register of Citizens (NRC) was updated based on this cut-off.

Further, although Clause 6 did aim to provide the ‘Assamese people’ with certain safeguards exclusively, those that could not be availed by others, there was no clear definition of the term ‘Assamese People’.

Even after much debate, all attempts to provide a consensus on the definition had failed over the decades.

Highlights of the recommendations given by the High Level Committee 1. On definition of ‘Assamese People’ ‘Assamese people’ shall be construed as including-

Assamese community, residing in the Territory of Assam on or before 1st January 1951; or Any indigenous tribal community of Assam residing in the territory of Assam on or before 1st January, 1951; or Any other indigenous community of Assam residing in the territory of Assam on or before 1st January, 1951; or

Representative Image languages.

No languages apart from Assamese and indigenous languages will be imposed forcefully as languages of the State.

Assamese should be implemented as the State Official language as per the Official Language Act, 1960 throughout the state, with provisions for use of local languages in Barak Valley, Hill Districts and the Bodoland Territorial Area Districts.

Mandatory provision of an Assamese language paper for recruitment in state government services with alternatives for Barak Valley districts, BTAD and Hills Districts.

To set up academies for all-round development of each of the indigenous tribal languages including, Bodo, Mishing, Karbi, Dimasa, Koch-Rajbongshi, Rabha, Deuri, Tiwa, Tai and other indigenous languages.

An autonomous organization be created by act of the Legislative Assembly, for the prevention and development of indigenous languages.

Descendants of the above categories.

The Assamese and Bodo scripts should be encoded in ISO (International Standards Organization, London) standard. Urgent step to be taken by the state government in this regard.

2. On Cultural and Social Safeguards

4. On Political safeguards

All historical places and heritages should be preserved and protected by the government of Assam.

Reservation of 65 to 100 percent of the seats of the Parliament and the Assam Legislative Assembly (ALA) for the Assamese/indigenous people of the state, excluding the seats reserved for SC/ST.

All other citizens of India residing in the territory of Assam on or before 1st January, 1951; and

There must be measures for conservation and research of the languages, culture and public life of Khilanjiya (indigenous) tribes of Assam.

Special laws be passed for protection, preservation and promotion of cultural, social and linguistic identity.

Appropriate representation from indigenous communities in councils/governing bodies of the national literary and cultural organisations like Sahitya Academy, Lalit Kala Academy, etc be ensured.

3. On Language and Script Necessary constitutional safeguards to be ensured for protection of Assamese and other indigenous

Parliamentary Constituencies (Lok Sabha) and Legislative Assembly be taken up to give proper representations to the indigenous people.

Powers of complete autonomy may be given to the state and Centre should retain the powers only in areas of defence, external affairs, communication and currency.

An Upper House be created in Assam to give representation to all communities, especially the ones now left unrepresented.

1951 be the base year for contesting elections.

Inner Line Permit (ILP) should be introduced in Assam.

5. On Employment safeguards: For jobs of Central Govt, Central PSUs and Private Enterprises - 100 percent reservation in Grade III and IV, and 70 percent reservation in Grade I and II for the indigenous people of Assam.

For jobs of Central and State Govt. located in Assam - 100 percent reservation in Grade IV and 80 percent reservation in Grade I,II and III. For jobs of State Govt, 100 percent reservation in all categories.

70 percent of all jobs in private sector in Assam be reserved for local indigenous people.

Assam Employment Commission be set up.

Reservation be made for ‘Assamese’ youths in all Technical, Medical and Management Institutes/ Colleges in the state.

6. On land rights The provisions of Assam Land Revenue and Regulation, 1886 (as amended) be strictly followed.

The rights be confined to ‘Assamese People’ putting restrictions on transferring the same by any means to other persons other than ‘Assamese People’.

Identify the Revenue Circles of the state where only ‘Assamese People’ can own and possess land.

Immediate steps to prevent the shrinkage/decrease of prime agricultural land. Complete ban on transfer of agricultural land for non-agricultural purposes.

Updating and authenticating the land records.

A time bound 3 year programme to allot Patta to the ‘Assamese People’.

An act needs to be enacted by the ALA making encroachment on Government land, forest land a cognizable criminal offence with provisions for an expeditious trial.

Business

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

3

Despite India being world’s largest tea producer, packet traders urge for duty free import

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ndia is one of the world’s largest producers and consumers of tea accounting for 23% of the world’s production and around 13% of the world’s tea export.

Currently, India produces close to 1,400 million kgs of tea out of which around 250 million kgs are exported while domestic consumption accounts for around 1,100 million kgs.

Also tea production has been gradually increasing over the decades primarily because of the emergence of the Small Tea Growers (STG Sector).

However, due to low level of absorption, both for consumption and export, there is over supply leading to price stagnancy year after year. But due to low output this year, given the pandemic situation, tea prices have soared significantly.

Considering this high price rise, the packet tea players and tea traders of India are considering importing teas from Kenya and Vietnam as tea prices have fallen there due to overproduction.

The Federation of All India Tea Traders’ Association (FAITTA) has demanded that the government allow importing of tea from these countries, that too duty-free. FAITTA has maintained that importing of tea would be a one-time affair and would not be practiced in the coming years.

If permission is granted by the government, India will be importing tea for the domestic market for the first time. The country has been importing tea earlier in relatively small quantities of 9 to10 million kgs annually. But this is used for reexport. This year the association has wished to import 40 to 50 million kgs of teas, that too for domestic consumption.

Further, tea attracts 100 percent import duty; the association has urged that tea be allowed to be imported duty-free this year.

“Prices of tea in auctions have gone up significantly this year due to a shortage of supply. But we are not being able to pass on the price to our customers because the economic situation in the country is not conducive for increasing prices. The pandemic has created economic uncertainty everywhere,” said Viren Shah, Chairman of FAITTA. While the prices of CTC has increased by nearly 48% to Rs. 305 per kg in the Kolkata auction, the prices of Kenyan tea was about Rs. 138 per kg in the Mombasa auction. The

Vietnamese tea is even cheaper.

This means import of tea from these countries will be cheaper to the packet tea traders than the procurement of home produced products.

The Consultative Committee of Plantation Associations (CCPA), the apex body of tea associations in India has written to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry against the demands placed by packet tea players and traders.

CCPA stated that the auction prices between 2012 and 2019 have grown at a CAGR of 1.7% only while input costs have grown at a CAGR of 8% to 14% during the same period. After years of stagnancy the tea prices have finally increased. And if the same continues, “it will contribute towards restoration of the viability of the ailing producing segment which has been incurring huge losses for the past few years.”

They pointed that there is adequate availability of tea in the system and given the fact that cropping months from August to December contributes 45% of the total production, the availability would increase further.

Moreover, on account of the current global crisis due to Covid-19, exports in the current fiscal year is expected to be lower which would make more additional teas available in the domestic market.

Further, it was stated that pursuant to the outbreak of Covid-19, out-of-home consumption of tea which constitutes around 30% of the total consumption is reported to have decreased substantially.

Therefore, inducing increase in imports through reduction of import duty or otherwise would affect the market dynamics to the detriment of the tea economy

leading to depressed prices, losses, erosion in employment levels and threatening the livelihoods of millions of workers and small tea growers dependent on the tea industry.

“After seven long years, prices have shown some northward movement even though the cost of production has gone up 50-60% in the same period. There are 10 lakh workers engaged in tea estates directly. Their livelihood will be at stake if the import is allowed. Also, the market will be flooded with cheap Vietnamese and Kenyan teas which will hurt the Indian tea producers,” said Vivek Goenka, Chairman of Indian Tea Association (ITA).

In the letter to the union ministry by the Consultative Committee of Plantation Associations, they urged the government to maintain status

Representative image of a tea garden in Assam quo with regard to 100% import duty on tea. The government was also urged to strengthen the inspection regime in India to

ensure that teas which are being imported into India comply to the FSSAI guidelines and other compliances.

Janasanyog No. 1527/20

Barasha Das @Barasha_mi2

4 Concern

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

Pandemic making a deep adverse impact on specially abled children Barasha Das @Barasha_mi2

Lockdown impact on the minds and daily schedule of specially abled section is massive.

They have been confined to their homes ever since March last.

Lack of expert counselling and care has impacted them further.

Covid protocols of social distancing and wearing mask is not understood by them.

Parents place distress calls to experts calling for help to manage their specially abled children.

Parents are also seeking help to tackle depression.

T

hey don’t understand lockdown. They want to mingle with people, shake hands. Social distancing is not understood by them,” Dhrubajyoti Patowary’s

said father.

23-year old Dhrubajyoti Patowary is suffering from Down Syndrome. Although he is intellectually challenged he is active in various sports. He represented Assam in Special Olympics Bharat at Haryana and even won the Bronze medals in Judo and Net Ball. He is learning mountaineering with the Assam Mountaineering Association.

But the lockdown has completely changed his daily schedule. For him, staying at home means being deprived of the basic communication he had

had with his friends at school. He has been living in almost complete isolation.

For the likes of Dhrubajyoti and other people suffering from Down Syndrome and autism, the pandemic, lockdown etc are far beyond their levels of comprehension. They do not understand the crisis and are more saddened by the fact that they cannot go to school regularly and are being kept away from the friends they love to play and spend time with.

“He goes to Ashadeep Day Rehabilitation Center. Prior to the lockdown he used to attend regular classes. At school they do a lot of activities like playing, drawing and others. School timing was from 10 am to 2:30 pm. After school he attended sports classes at Nehru Stadium. Other times he engaged in other activities,” narrated Dhrubajyoti’s father.

“Even when school is now closed for the lockdown, everyday he gets ready to go to school, wants to meet his friends as they are very close. He keeps on saying their names. These have an emotional impact on them,” he sadly added.

Dr Anjana Goswami, Director of Ashadeep said, “Our students are intellectually disabled but they are physically very active. Their intelligence quotient (IQ) is below average. So we do not follow a regular school curriculum. We provide them with training and therapy. We teach them self-help skills like brushing teeth, bathing, wearing their clothes and such, so that they can be independent. We also teach social, communication and vocational skills.”

“When the lockdown happened we were conducting regular classes. We were preparing a dance drama for our annual day celebrations. We were also planning to join some national sports camp. But the lockdown happened so suddenly, neither we nor they understood what actually happened and what to do or expect,” she added.

Usually such day care centres and school have an annual summer vacation of one month and a week or two of winter vacation. For these, the students are prepared from much earlier with what to do during the vacation period, how to spend their time. However, this

A specially abled student taking online lessons from home | G Plus photo unplanned lockdown left them in the lurch.

The school is however conducting online classes to provide the minimum possible care and regular counselling to the students. While the ones with mild and medium conditions of irregularities are following and trying their best to keep up with situation, the students with severe conditions have become unmanageable.

“He misses his school and sports, as he was very regular, never absent. He doesn’t care much about being tired, but will attend classes regularly. We have to thank god that Dhruba is very stable. He follows our advice religiously. At the beginning he did have problems. Every morning he gets ready to go to school and it is difficult to make him understand that it’s closed. Same for his sports classes,” said Dhurba’s mother with teary eyes.

“We understand what he is feeling and doing but what can we do? He is very gentle, so it’s easier for me (to handle him), but many like him are unmanageable. We are hoping he will do better,” she said even as she broke down in tears.

When asked about his friends Dhrubajyoti excitedly replied,

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“Kabir, Joi, Nirupam.”

But he will not go to school now and indicated that “police will beat if you go out.”

His father related that he has seen on TV about police beating up people who go out during the lockdown. Seeing all that he is scared. “This is somewhat good as initially he wanted to go out, but now he is more understanding,” said his father.

However, not all parents are lucky enough like Dhruba’s. The care centres and schools have even received distress calls from parents seeking urgent help to manage their kid.

“We started getting distress calls from parents. Some children do not even listen to their parents, they follow only their teacher.

Children are not understanding the situation. We are trying to teach them through video sessions. The students in the mild and moderate condition groups are following somewhat, but the severe and autistic groups are finding it difficult. They don’t want to stay at home. They become very violent,” said Dr. Anjana Goswami.

She continued, “In school they form peer groups. They meet others like them with whom it’s easier to communicate. They form a world of their own. Now

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at home they are deprived of these interactions completely.”

“What is going to be more difficult is that we have to start all over again with every child.

Whatever we teach them, we usually have to keep on repeating.

With such a long gap everything is back to zero. Also, many a time, we had to counsel even the parents. They are also tackling depression being unable to manage their children. Only they can understand the trauma of their child,” she concluded sadly.

Going back to school for such intellectually challenged students now looks like a distant dream.

Even if the regular schools reopen, it won’t be easy to take them back to school, as they do not even understand the basic Covid protocols of wearing mask and social distancing. Even when they are forced to wear a mask, they tend to remove it after some time.

Teachers and experts are doing their best to formulate new ways to adapt them to the new life.

However, every plan remains to be tested. While the impact on the mental health of normal health people is alarming with continued numbers of suicides and depressions, the effect on these specially abled persons can only be imagined.

Poll

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

Yes: 26% No: 74%

5

Majority of Guwahatians feel unsafe to go back to physical classrooms amidst pandemic

With Gauhati University resuming classes from September 1, do students feel safe to go back to physical classrooms?

Nehal Jain @NehalJain96

T

he Government of Assam has framed a set of guidelines for reopening of educational institutions in the state.

The government plans to restart physical classes from September 1 onwards - in a phased manner - depending on the COVID-19 situation.

“We have drawn up a preliminary plan for reopening schools but it is still open for further discussions with parents and other stakeholders, and will be implemented only in accordance with the directives of the union government,” Education Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had said.

Meanwhile, Gauhati University is all set to restart regular classes for final semester students as per proposed government guidelines issued by the Commissioner and Secretary of Higher Education, Assam for reopening of degree colleges from 1st of September, 2020.

As per a notice from the Gauhati University Registrar’s Office, 4th semester students pursuing post graduation courses and 6th semester students in their under-graduation along with 6th semester LLB students and 10th semester students of BBA LLB, BA LLB and B. Com LLB have been directed to return to the university from September 1.

G Plus conducted a poll on its social media channels and

asked Guwahatians whether they feel safe to go back to physical classrooms amidst the pandemic. More than 1,700 people participated in the poll which resulted in only 26 percent of people saying that they feel safe. A whopping 74 percent of the poll participants said that they didn’t find it safe to attend physical classes. Netizens actively commented on G Plus’s Facebook and Instagram page after casting their votes in the poll conducted on August 12.

“We have seen the outbreak in Mississippi and Israel as well as in US. What if the same thing happens here too? Who will be responsible for it? No studies for one year makes no difference but if due to this situation a family needs to lose its one and only son/daughter, who will look after them? We ain’t going to school in this pandemic,” commented an Instagrammer Fradrick Jain, who goes by the name of x.adams in response to the poll question.

In the same vein, a Facebook user and a student of Gauhati University, Manash Debnath commented, “In USA, 95,000 students tested covid positive recently after reopening of schools and colleges. The govt should think about the matter before opening schools colleges.

The cleanliness and awareness of social distancing should be maintain(ed) in institutions.”

Another Instagrammer, a mother of three who goes by the name ‘momzilla’ commented, “Same policy cannot be applied

Representative Image of a physical classroom against all states in this regard.

Delhi and Mumbai showed high rates of infections very early. In Assam, cases have just begun. We are nowhere near being stable.”

Further elaborating on the fear and plight of the students, Piyali Mazumder commented, “Of course, I don’t feel safe.

One University that can’t even handle their website efficiently, gets hacked every other day, will implement effective measures to protect its students from COVID-19? It’s not even a closed campus. While giving an exam, how am I supposed to protect

myself from the virus that is neither seen nor felt?”

On the contrary, 26% of the respondents opined that it was high time that educational institutions also opened up stating that the world needs to learn to live with the novel coronavirus.

“Yes, of course because normal has to come and will not come back until we step up,” commented one Akib Ahmed on Instagram.

Another Instagrammer highlighted the importance of physical classes stating that, “We

can’t stay anymore in our homes and study through online classes because it’s just a waste of time.

Earlier, students in their physical classes feel hard to understand the concept and now due to these online classes very few are able to understand what they are taught.

So, I request to open schools but with proper precautions.”

On 16th March, the central government declared a nationwide lockdown of schools and colleges to control the spread of COVID-19. Educational institutes in Assam have remained shut since then.

Assam: Drugs, arms seized; 6 arrested in Guwahati, Sonapur raids

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s many as six persons were arrested and drugs, firearms and other items seized from them in multiple raids conducted

by Assam police in Guwahati and Sonapur during the last 24 hours.

A team led by ACP Sonapur Abotani Doley raided two houses on August 13 at Jogukuchi at Sonapur under Sonapur Police Station and apprehended two persons namely Pradip Deka (35) and Apurba Medhi (26).

Based on the confession

of these two persons, two more houses were raided at Pakhiyabari, Teteliguri under Khetri PS and two others – Rana Deka (34) and Rafi Khan from Thoubal district in Manipur – were apprehended.

A country-made revolver, five live rounds of 9 mm ammunition, nine packets of suspected brown sugar and four mobile handsets were seized from their possession.

Meanwhile, City Police Crime Branch along with personnel

from Panbazar Police Station, on August 13, conducted a raid and arrested two peddlers from Lakhtokia area of Guwahati after suspected drugs were seized from their possession.

The arrested persons have been identified as Motiur Rahman (25) of Sipajhar and Khalilur Rahman (34) of Baihata Chariali.

The team seized two packets of drugs containing 22 grams of suspected heroin, Rs 68,000 in cash and a mobile phone from their possession.

6 In The News

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

World Elephant Day

Did you know Assam is home to the world’s oldest Asiatic Elephant?

Nehal Jain @NehalJain96

I

n the tea gardens of Assam lives Bijuli Prasad, the oldest known Asiatic elephant in the world.

“Bijuli Prasad must be around 86 years old and is the oldest Asiatic elephant as per records,” Padma Shri awardee, Dr Kushal Konwar Sharma told G Plus.

Dr Sharma, known as the ‘Elephant Doctor’, has been treating Bijuli for over 25 years. He is a professor and head at the Department of Surgery and Radiology of the College of Veterinary Science at Khanapara in Guwahati.

Bijuli Prasad belonged to the Magor Tea Estates of Assam and he was christened by Oliver Sahib from England who gave him this name.

In 1968, the Borgang Tea Company bought Bijuli. He was involved in uprooting old tea bushes and other works. The elephant was put on salary, which was exceptional at the time, and from that salary, the

wages for the mahout were cut, his food and medicine paid for and a pension started.

Bijuli stayed in Borgang post retirement as well, as a member of the extended Magor family.

Now, the old tusker lives a healthy life as a privileged member of the Bihali Tea Estate in Sonitpur district of Assam.

Bihali Tea estate had bought Bijuli and his keeper Thomas Murmu from Borgang Tea Company in 2018.

Thomas Murmu is the Adivasi mahut (keeper) of the elephant.

Thomas’s father was the keeper of the elephant when it was bought by the Magor group and after he expired, Thomas took over the duty.

At Bihali Tea Estate, the management has arranged for two keepers for Bijuli in the company’s payroll. There are doctors to monitor his health and weight every week, along with proper meals three times a day.

The male tusker has a huge build and moves with the majestic élan in the lush green tea bushes of the estate. He weighs around 400 kilograms

and his health condition is stable despite his old age. Normally, elephants live up to 50 years, while their maximum lifespan is generally estimated at 70.

Speaking to G Plus about Bijuli’s health, Dr Sharma said, “He has suffered from health problems earlier, but he has been treated well and is doing fine now.”

He added that Bijuli is unable to properly chew with his degenerated molar teeth and is thus fed boiled foods, grasses cut into small pieces, banana stem cut in small piece and rice among others.

Besides, vitamins and added nutrition is also provided in abundance and possibly it’s due to this care Bijuli could

Bijuli Prasad, the oldest elephant recuperate eight years back and is healthy till today, added Dr Sharma who visits Bijuli frequently to conduct health check-up.

Earlier, Dakshayanithe 88-year-old captive elephant

in Kerala was considered to be the oldest in India and even Asia. She died in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala in 2019 after she became reluctant to eat anything during her last days.

Guwahati sees surge of cyclists, dealers straining to meet fresh demands Kareng Phukan @guwahatiplus

“

The ultimate goal of the blessed life is physical health and mental serenity.” Greek philosopher Epicurus.

The current worldwide pandemic has impacted equally the mental and physical health of all. And ever since the nationwide lockdown was implemented from 24th March, people have been unable to hit the gyms either.

After the initial months of complete isolation, Guwahatians have now taken to cycling to keep themselves healthy. The once popular activity of cycling that was disappearing in a rapidly developing metropolis is now returning. People are choosing to invest on a manual two-wheeler bicycle over the latest motorized automatic vehicles. Many are

being seen roaming around the ‘deserted’ city in newly acquired cycles even during the curfew hours.

Arshel Akhter, who was appointed as the ‘Bicycle Mayor’ of Guwahati by BYCS (pronounced as ‘bikes’), an NGO based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, the cycling capital of the world, speaking to G Plus said, “Bicycle sales in Guwahati have increased by 50 percent during this lockdown. As per my information, most bicycle stores have sold out their stocks.

Earlier, there were very few people of Guwahati who were seen cycling. Even on holidays or any regular day, when the roads were empty, nobody thought of cycling around. But with these months of lockdown people have taken this up with new enthusiasm and have developed it into a regular habit to stay healthy. Others are also getting

inspired.”

“There are around 25 cycling clubs in different parts of Assam. During the lockdown the members of this club have come out to inspire all. As for us, in order to encourage the people of Guwahati to take up cycling, we have started online campaigns and other programs. We have also given a petition to minister Siddhartha Bhattacharya to support the cause,” added Akhter.

While the sales of other two wheelers like scooties, bikes etc and the ever desirable four wheelers have comparatively receded, the sales of bicycles are at an all time high. Demand is at such a high that many companies are not being able to meet the demands.

Bikash Doley, the proprietor of a bicycle store in Guwahati, told G Plus, “Our sales have increased quite a lot compared to the

pre-pandemic market. We have placed a lot of more orders with the companies we procure our products from.

However, there is no increase in prices. We are selling at the old prices or as per online price tags. With this sudden surge in love for cycling Youngsters bicycling along the GS Road in Guwahati | G Plus photo worldwide, companies aren’t till Uzan Bazar Ghat, Fancy able to keep up with demands.

Bazar riverside, Chandmari After all, even they are struck and others are often seen full by the lockdown.” of cyclists these days. Many Reportedly, 20 million cycles such groups have also been are manufactured in India every newly formed and people are year. It is a Rs. 7000 crore seen cycling with families and industry. friends. Cycling has apparently Some popular spots of become the new normal.

Guwahati like Belle Vue Point

In The News

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

7

Most Guwahati restaurants clarify position on ‘shutting down’ rumours The city has been agog with ‘news’ and stories about many of its popular restaurants shutting down due to lack of business because of the pandemic. G Plus gives the true picture of the situation with exclusive bites from restaurant owners.

Gunjan Sharma @guwahatiplus

G

iven the setbacks to the restaurant business of Guwahati ever since the outbreak of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act in December last, the fraternity of restaurateurs have never had it so bad. Recently, while some restaurants were deciding on opening timings, social media was abuzz with hearsay of several popular city restaurants being shut down permanently. But later it was found that some of the restaurants which were deemed to have been shut down are still open and rubbishing all such claims.

G Plus reached out to the owners of several such restaurant owners to present the correct picture of the situation.

Ranbir Kar, proprietor of Chick N Chilly and Vice president of All Assam Restaurant Association (AARA), speaking to G Plus, confirmed that he has decided to shut 4 out of his 5 outlets in Guwahati.

In the restaurant business we deal with perishable items we require fresh vegetables, meat, etc and if we are allowed to operate only for 5 hours in a day or five days in a week there is no point keeping the outlets open. Adding he said, “Landlords are not willing to compromise with the rent.

Hence, it has been very difficult for me to continue with the business and so I took this decision in April.”

Ichchapuron was also supposedly shut down. However, the owners informed G Plus that the restaurant is currently under renovation and shall start operating when the situation is better.

Another popular restaurant Heritage Khorikaa has decided to shut its Lamb Road branch. Chef Atul Lahkar, owner of Heritage Khorikaa, speaking to G Plus said,

“After 3-4 months of lockdown the government allowed opening of restaurants but they were again shut in Guwahati due to the lockdown. It was only recently when delivery of food was allowed which was followed by dine in. But people are not coming; only 10% guests are ordering or dining in.

Ours is a lunch and dinner special menu. I decided to shut down my Lamb Road outlet. For now we shall only run one outlet,” he added.

Sugata Goswami, owner of the iconic ‘The Dhaba’ took to social media to confirm that he is not closing down. He wrote, “Just saw a post on FB saying our Restaurant, The Dhaba is closing down for good. Let me assure you it is unfounded rumour and we intend to be back in business from next week. We will not open our Dharapur branch immediately, but that too will open in due time.

Cheers.”

Speaking to G Plus, the manager of Chung Fa said, “The lockdown has been very difficult for us.

We have salaries to be paid. We decided to turn Chung Fa into a cloud kitchen. We are currently operating from China Town. We are operating with a very limited staff who stay in our staff quarter.

We don’t plan to open the dine in option at China Town any time soon but we are open for delivery and takeaway both from Chung Fa and China Town.”

Social media posts also claimed that Quick Pick and Red have been shut down. G Plus reached out to the owner of the restaurant who clearly denied the claim. Rajnish Bora, owner of Quick Pick told G Plus, “We gave notice about Quick Pick Dighalipukhuri being shut in the month of February. Red will be reopening soon. The Silpukhuri outlet of Quick Pick is open for both dine in and delivery.”

Another entity which has been shut down is Shillong Momo.

Deba Kumar Barman, owner

of J14, Shillong Momo and the president of All Assam Restaurant Association (AARA) confirmed the news to G Plus saying, “Shillong Momo has been shut but J 14 is running. Currently we are only taking orders for delivery and take away. But our sales have come down to 8-10% from our normal sales. Currently we have limited our menu to rolls and burgers majorly.”

Owner of Grill Republica, Jeet Borah, confirmed to G Plus that only one of the outlets is being shut down while the rest will continue to serve.

Speaking to G Plus he said, “We closed our Wireless outlet due to Covid and also because it wasn’t performing at a pace that we wanted. The Commerce and Uzan Bazar outlets are currently running. We shall open them when the curfew timings are relaxed.”

Among other restaurants that were rumoured to be closed down were Kasturi Restaurant, Dine Way Platz, Hot Pot, D’Vine and Cafe 361.

Manager of Kasturi Restaurant informed G Plus saying, “Currently we are only taking orders for online delivery and takeaways. We plan to open the restaurant after August 15 probably.”

Owner of Dine Way Platz, Abhijit Bhuyan told G Plus, “We are not shutting down. Currently we are shut due to the lockdown but once it’s over we will open up.

We plan to open after August 16.”

Owner of D’Vine Restaurant Manasdeep Chakraborty informed G Plus that they have not shut down. Speaking to G Plus, he said, “We are not closing. We have temporarily shut down due to the lockdown. We will definitely open, most probably from September.”

Cafe 361 which recently opened last year has been temporarily shut down for the time being.

Hot Pot has been temporarily shut down due to the lockdown and shall be opening soon.

The empty shelves in this city eatery tells the tale Further, ex-manager of 16 Anna Bengali Restaurant confirmed to G Plus that the restaurant has been shut down due to the lockdown.

Owner of Dilli 6, Vicky Seth confirmed to G Plus that the brand has decided to shut one of their outlets in Bhangagarh. Seth said, “We have been shut since March and being a two year old brand it has been very difficult to sustain.

So we have decided to shut down the Bhangagarh branch. We shall open the Hatigaon branch shortly.”

With around 500-550 small and big restaurants in Guwahati, some have decided to shut down permanently or temporarily, several other restaurants around the city are trying their best to get back into the market.

Apart from keeping up with the necessary precautions, cleanliness, physical distancing, safety gears and more some restaurants have also decided to go online and work on delivery only, some have limited their menus and some have come up with a digital menu to maintain social distancing.

Several restaurateurs spoke to G Plus about the issues being faced by them currently.

Speaking to G Plus about the current scenario Anish Tulsyan,

Media Secretary of AARA, and owner of Food Court at Roodraksh Mall said, “We didn’t open our food court in the current unlock as opening 2 or 3 days in a week makes no sense as it won’t even pay the day’s electricity bill. The food industry has not seen good days since November last. People with deep pockets and people who have received relaxations in their rents will survive but 99% people have not received any relaxation on rents. But even with rental relaxations it will be very difficult to survive. In the mid when we opened for 15-20 days our sales dropped down to 10% of what it used to be. We believe that things will get better in a month or two.”

A cafe owner from Guwahati, Shabnam Yasmin, told G Plus, “The major reason for restaurants shutting down is payment of rent. We are not getting help neither from the land lords or the government. We have to all start from ground level and to reinvest everything and the probability of it working is a big quest mark.

Though people are coming up and ordering, a huge section of people are still scared to order in or eat out, in fact there are people who have not moved out of their houses for months now.”

restaurants were allowed to open even during the lockdown keeping them in the category of essential services. It is said that Guwahati is on the verge of being a metro city and here we are not even allowed to open eateries at night.”

On April 27, 2020 through a memorandum submitted to the Chief Minister of Assam the association mentioned

about the hardships faced by the food industry and had requested the Chief Minister to look into matters like rentals, WC Loan, subsidies on utilities payment, extension of validity of all licenses/registrations for a period of 12 months starting April 1, 2020, Statutory Dues and Indigenous home-grown aggregator partners among others.

AARA speaks on expecting help from Assam govt

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eba Kumar Barman, the president of All Assam Restaurant Association (AARA) told G Plus, “It has been a pathetic situation for us and we have been neglected by everyone. In this condition when we are in such a bad shape our landlords are also not reducing a single penny from the rent. We (AARA) even submitted a memorandum to the

Chief Minister of Assam asking for help and I had hoped that the government would do something for us but we have not received any help from them so far.”

Adding he said, “As hotels have been turned into Covid centres the same could have been done for us. The government could have outsourced the food supply for Covid patients from our association and we could have

segregated teams consisting of several restaurants. It would have been helpful for us. At least it would have helped us to pay the rent or salary of our staff.

Ranbir Kar, Vice president AARA said, “We met the chief minister of Assam and submitted a memorandum but no action has been taken for the food fraternity. In other states like Bengal or Hyderabad the

8 Centre Spread

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

Nehal Jain @NehalJain96

Independence Day celebrations to be low-key affair in Assam Due to the prevalence of the coronavirus pandemic, the government of Assam has curbed the extensive celebration that is usually held on Independence Day each year.

The government has issued new guidelines that are to be adhered to during the function.

The 74th Independence Day celebration in Guwahati will not see the participation of any students, NCC and Scouts & Guides cadets in the march-past. No cultural and sports programs or refreshments will be

organized.

While the names of awardees will be announced on the occasion, the actual awards will be handed over at their respective residences by the respective Deputy Commissioners.

Further, all audiences and officials present are to be screened for COVID-19 before attending the function. All are to follow the COVID protocols of wearing masks and social distancing strictly.

Corona Warriors among sparse crowd to attend the celebrations In a first, Assam is set to celebrate the 74th Independence Day without the usual crowd that throngs the venue.

The invitation shall not exceed one-third of the seating capacity of the venue. And, amongst the distinguished invitees will be doctors, health and sanitization workers and even a few COVID survivors. The aim of inviting COVID warriors is to recognise the services rendered by them in the fight against the pandemic.

Given the surge in the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths, the chief minister will be delivering the live Independence Day speech in front of a limited gathering.

The preparations at Judges’ Field are

underway keeping social distancing as priority.

It may be mentioned here that the Ministry of Home Affairs has sent detailed guidelines to the states for Independence Day celebrations amidst the pandemic and said that the COVID-19 protocols should be strictly observed.

The Home Ministry guidelines instructed the states to avoid large congregations and to ensure that everyone attending the functions should maintain social distancing and wear masks. The guidelines said that the states should try to arrange for web cast of the functions to reach out to the masses.

The historic Judges’ Field in Guwahati is all set to host Assam’s official Independence Day function after a gap of 12 years and Guwahatians are filled with nostalgia at the sheer thought of it.

Judges’ Field had been the venue of both the Independence Day (August 15) and Republic Day (January 26) since 1947.

In 2008, the government of Assam decided to reserve the Judges’ Field exclusively for sporting

Centre Spread

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

Programme Schedule: 4:30 AM Prabhat Geetanjali

7:00 AM Hoisting of National Flag at the official residence of government functionaries

7:30 AM Hoisting of National Flag at all government, semi government officers, educational institutes

7:45 AM Assembly of contingents for parade at Judges’ Field, Guwahati

8:15 AM Arrival of invitees and public activities and the celebrations were thus shifted to Latasil Playground.

Eventually, the celebrations of Independence Day and Republic Day were shifted to the playground of College of Veterinary Science at Khanapara.

With the Khanapara Veterinary ground being currently used as COVID care centre, the government has decided to organize the Independence Day function at Judges’ Field this year.

9:00 AM Ceremonial flag hoisting at Judges’ Field followed by guard of honour and parade by Assam Police and central paramilitary forces

10:00 AM Distribution of fruits to the inmates of Central Jail, patients of MMC Hospital, B. Borooah Cancer Hospital, TB Hospital, inmates of Destitute Home at Jalukbari, orphanage of Fatasil Ambari, students of Blind School at Basistha and Deaf & Dumb School at Kahilipara

6:30 PM Illumination of government buildings, private residences

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10 G Talk E

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| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020 T

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Vigilantism by hooligans

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was privy to a piece of CCTV footage that was captured around 9 pm on Friday last week. The footage was from a pharmacy located opposite Gauhati Commerce College where a gentleman had dropped in to buy some medicines on his way back home. The shocking images revealed that this gentleman had somehow, with reasons unbeknownst to him, provoked a large group of youngsters who happened to be travelling in an SUV. There were around 8 of them it seemed and the group included a young girl who happened to be the fieriest of them all.

The gentleman narrated that they were reeking of alcohol, abusive to the point of being ruffians, for no apparent reason heckled him in a vintage style of ‘dadagiri’ and finally snatched away his expensive iPhone. That they were captured on CCTV did not seem to be a matter of concern; it was almost like they enjoyed state patronage for the sheer outrage that they were.

An FIR was apparently lodged after the highest echelons of the city’s police force were contacted. Nothing moved although there was no further news about this hooliganism by these selfstyled vigilantes through the rest of the week. Until of course they caught up with

Zubeen Garg late the other night! Yes, they were the same drunken crooks and they were freely roaming the nightly streets of Guwahati throwing their weight around on all who dared to cross their paths or who, in their perception, were provoking them.

This is not the nicest of situations in Guwahati.

Firstly, curfew hours and lockdowns are to be adhered to by one and all and these need to be strictly enforced by the police department.

Through the entire Unlock-2, people seemed to be at liberty to move freely during the night curfews that started at 6 pm making a mockery of the government’s attempts to combat the pandemic. On top of that are a bunch of seemingly wealthy and spoilt youngsters who have no issues about throwing all caution to the winds in their attempts to perhaps express themselves.

That a revered artist like Zubeen Garg was targeted speaks volumes of the lack of security prevailing in the city after dark.

The police commissionerate needs to address this issue at the earliest. Catching the rogue SUV should hardly be a problem. Beyond that, a fine example should be made of this unacceptable hooliganism.

Swapnil Bharali (Editor) @swapnilbharali

Time to use our common sense

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s the world comes to terms with dealing with “Unlock” it is important to appreciate the things that kept us going through the COVID times and will do so in the months ahead.

There were big businesses that kept production lines open to deal with the massive supply surge. People kept saying that millions of people lost their jobs, but millions more got to keep their jobs too. This helped feed their families and pay the dues, the bills.

Let’s a take a second to respect work places and teams that made this happen.

While there is a sense of insecurity for small businesses as everyone surviving through the crisis saw their savings taking a hit, it is important that in the times to come, we make a genuine attempt to help our friends, families and other small businesses that are trying to live in the “new normal.”

I can’t recall a time on the internet without memes, but one of these “internet images” just resonated with this thought – write a small review for them, tell your friends and family about the business, follow them on social media, engage with their posts, give them a shout out or sign up for their newsletter. Interestingly enough, none of these costs a penny.

2020 isn’t the worst year. It is a reminder for us humans that many such years shall come in the future if we do not start acting responsibly and taking proper care of our planet. To add to this is the respect we need to show to our own human intellect and work accordingly without taking things for granted. Using our intellect (basically our common sense) and being intelligently frugal in our actions will go a long way in ensuring that 2020 does not make a return only to destroy us if we are unnecessarily belligerent!

Sidharth Bedi Varma @sid_bv

A different IPL this time

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he Indian Premier League (IPL) is undoubtedly one of the biggest cash rich tournaments in the world today. And ever since its inception it has not only taken cricket to new levels but has also turned the lives of certain talented players - especially those from humble backgrounds.

This time around the cash rich tournament will be conducted in a ‘Bio-safe’ environment in United Arab Emirates across various cities from September 19 to November 10.

The last time the tournament was shifted from India was way back in 2009 when the Lok Sabha elections took place in India. It was due to clash of dates; also various other factors resulted in the tournament being shifted.

As of now, a lot of tournaments have been conducted worldwide such as various bilateral cricket tournaments, or the recent FA cup which were conducted minus the crowds.

However, despite all kinds of tests and other protocols related to COVID, the manager of the winning team (Arsenal) of FA cup Mikel Arteta tested positive for COVID-19. There were other players as well but the whole issue boils down to one simple thing: will it be safe to play the tournament?

The authorities are set to conduct two mandatory RT- PCR (Covid-19 tests) tests to ensure everyone’s safety - right from the players to the staff members etc. But again, the misery of the organizers - Board of Cricket Control in Indian (BCCI) - does not end there In the wake of escalating tensions between India and China, the title sponsorship which was assigned to VIVO - a Chinese subsidiary company - is all set to be revoked and reports have it that is an investment worth a lot of crores of rupees.

So, just before the commencement of the tournament there is already some amount of tension.

However, the BCCI President

and former India skipper, Saurav Ganguly, has tried to pacify the situation by describing the whole incident as a blip or mere unexpected temporary deviation.

Hopefully, the tournament gets underway as it is not only important for revenue generation but otherwise a lot of people who are employed in broadcasting or satellite right ownership might lose out on their jobs which has been a recent trend during these Covid days. The glamorous tournament has a reputation of giving an exposure to talent; however there is a dark side attached to it as well. And that is match fixing, gambling etc.

The IPL betting scam which involved reputed national level cricketers like S. Sreesanth caught the public gaze in 2013.

A lot of big names had come out like N. Srinivasan who was also holding the post of BCCI President back then, his son-inlaw Gurunath Meiyappan etc.

Hence to bring an end to such shambolic incidents the Mudgal Committee was formed and Assam’s very own senior advocate and decorated member of the legal fraternity, Nilay Dutta, was a panel member of the committee. The committee had suggested various reforms such as use of local language to sensitize the players. They also recommended changes in the way the investigative wing was to run. But the most important one was to legalize betting which the Lodha Committee and the Supreme Court also welcomed with open arms so as to do away with middleman mafias, bookies and adding to the GDP of the country etc.

Subsequently, the Lodha Committee spearheaded by former Chief Justice of India Justice RM Lodha, was also welcomed by the Supreme Court of India. This time the problem might be dual which is corona and how to protect everyone associated with the tournament at least during the duration of the tournament and also the

rDeteriorating situation

T

O pinion Prakreetish Sarma

harsh weather conditions which cannot be ruled out. But there is another issue as well which is issue related to match fixing which was seen years back in infamous Sharjah (which is just 15 kms away from Dubai) which led the Indian government to ban the venue and refrain the team from playing in such neutral venues for years. This episode was undeniably one of the darkest phases for Indian cricket.

Times have changed but reminiscences of the past are capable enough to raise a lot of eyebrows. The authorities will have to be on their toes to protect the players and others associated with the game from both corona and any form of such illegal activities. The vigilance has to be beefed up along with security. But overall, the cash rich tournament has always been good news for Assam as it has provided a platform to players such as Abu Nechim Ahmed and the young and extremely talented Riyan Parag who had made headlines for his all round performances in the previous editions.

It will not be reasonable to defer the tournament any further and as they say the show must go on. As for the issue related to the title sponsor, rumour has it that Baba Ramdev’s company Patanjali might just be a frontrunner.

(The author has completed graduation in law from National Law University and Judicial Academy Assam. He is currently practising as an Advocate in Gauhati High Court. The views expressed in the article are his own)

Letter to the Editor

he COVID situation in Assam has been deteriorating every passing day. The number of cases per day has been rapidly increasing and so is the death toll.

As of 13 August, we are at a total of 71,795 cases with 22,240 presently active. Death toll has gone up to 169.

Yet, the Assam government has decided to go forward with the unlock process.

As they keep issuing orders regarding relaxation in the guidelines, we the citizens continue to feel scared of the situation.

The relaxations are “subject to maintenance of all COVID-19 protocols and social distancing” which is easier said than done.

As soon as the markets open, social distancing goes for a toss. We have seen it happening in the previous unlocks and fear that the same might happen this time as well.

Everyone knows it, except our exceptional Assam government.

Shankar J Hazarika, Guwahati

Op Ed

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

The National Education Policy: Reboot 2020 T he first national educational policy of India recommended by the Kothari committee was announced in 1968 by the Indira Gandhi government.

The next policy reformation took place in 1986 by the Rajiv Gandhi government.

Also there was certain modification (common minimum programme) of the 1986 NEP in 1992 by the UPA government led by P.V. Narsimha Rao. So, now a new education policy recommended by the Padma Vibushan Dr. K.

The policy pays attention to school teachers as well: robust recruitment, career development, progressive learning.

The document also mentions about undoing the practice of ‘para-teachers’ (unqualified contractual teachers) by 2022.

Kasturirangan committee, for the country after 34 long years is passed by the government. The concern of the hour about the NPE2020 is not what will be done by it? But, how will it be done?

What is the roadmap to fulfill it? Or will it just remain a vision document like the previous NEPs. The NEP2020 retains some old policies like the 6% GDP expenditure on education; learning in mother tongue upto grade5. The NPE2020 envisages a new curricular and pedagogical structure for school education i.e. the 5+3+3+4 model, which if implemented well will bring our school education level at par global standards. To add on to that there are: flexible curriculum for students (no hard separation of streams like science, commerce, humanities after class10), emphasizing on core concepts and skills and minimize rote learning, equal emphasis on all subjects (no hierarchy of subjects). There will be innovative education centres to bring back dropouts into mainstream, open learning at classes 3, 5 and 8 through NIOS and state open schools.

Also all school students will take exams in class 3, 5, 8 conducted by appropriate authority and board exams for class 10 and 12. A

Union I&B minister Prakash Javedkar (R) unveiling the NEP in Delhi in presence of education minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ new assessment centre, PARAKH (Performance assessment, Review, Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic development) will be setup as a standard setting body. The NCERT will develop a National Curricular and Pedagogical Framework for Early Childhood Care and Education (NCPFECCE) for children up to 8 years of age attending preschools/anganwadis.

The planning and implementation of ECCE will he carried out jointly by the ministries of HRD, Women & Child Development, Health & Family Welfare and Tribal affairs.

The policy pays attention to school teachers as well: robust recruitment, career development, progressive learning.

The document also mentions about undoing the practice of ‘parateachers’ (unqualified contractual teachers) by 2022; ensuring rigorous teacher preparation through 4 years integrated B.Ed. programmes at multidisciplinary institutions (the current 2years B.Ed. program will continue till 2030). There are few additional key focus areas viz., Education technology, integration of vocational education into all educational institutes, adult education, promotion of Indian languages. Among them in the education technology there is an aim of recording all data related to institutes, teachers and students in digital form.

Vocational education to start from class 6 with internships.

Adult education is a reiterated idea with few changes.

For high quality translations of materials of importance between various Indian languages as well as between foreign languages

and Indian languages an Indian Institute of Translation and Interpretation (IITI) is to be established.

For higher education, the NPE2020 envisages a vision of institutional restructuring and consolidation.

There will be consolidation of current 800universities and 40,000colleges into around 15,000 large, well resourced, vibrant multidisciplinary institutions.

They will be categorized into 3types of institutes viz., Research universities, Teaching universities and autonomous degree colleges. High quality educational institutes to be established in geographically disadvantaged areas. Also, for the acceleration of new architecture Mission Nalanda and Mission Takshashila are to be launched.

The policy aims for liberal education with broad multidisciplinary exposure; 3-4years undergraduate degree programmes with multiple entry and exit options (degree with honours with research work, exit with 2years advanced diploma or a 1year certificate program); flexible masters degree program (2 years & 1 year for 3 years & 4 years undergraduate programmes respectively or integrated 5years as was available earlier).

Academic bank of credits to be established to facilitate transfer of credits for students dropping out in between their education to revert back to studies whenever they want.

The National Higher Education Qualification Framework will articulate the learning outcome which will be alinged with by National Skills Qualification

Framework to ensure equivalence and mobility.

Engaging effective pedagogical practices; assessment of students not only on academic aspects but also on capacities and dispositions; multi-dimensional support to students for better outcome; expansion of open and distance education; globalization of education; establishment of Inter University Centre for International education within selected Indian Universities for optimization of learning and overall development of students.

The NEP2020 emphasizes on faculties of higher educational institutions too. It aims for adequate number of faculties in every institution; undoing the practice of ad-hoc faculties; robust recruitment based on academic expertise, teaching capacities; career development; continuous professional development; freedom to make curricular choices for their courses.

Regarding the governance of higher educational institutions the policy directs to make all higher educational institutes into autonomous self governing entities having independent boards with complete academic and administrative autonomy.

The standard setting, funding, accreditation and regulation will be conducted by separated independent bodies, eliminating concentration of powers and conflict of interest.

The National Higher Education Regulatory authority will be the sole regulator of higher education including professional education.

UGC will transform into Higher Education Grants Council (HGEC). New General Education

11

Dr. Gitartha Talukdar Council will develop National Higher Education Qualifications framework. Accreditations done

by NAAC will be the basis for regulation of institutes. State department of higher education will be involved at policy level and State council for higher education to facilitate peer support and best practice sharing. Although there is mere mention about common regulatory regime for public and private institution as in previous policies, only time will reveal how effective it is against the growing power of education mafias.

A major & controversial reform that the policy brings regarding professional education is stand alone technical universities, health sciences universities, legal and agriculture univerisities or institutes in these or other fields will be discontinued. All institutes offering either professional or general education must gradually evolve into institutes offering both by 2030.

The NEP2020 aims for boosting research and innovation across the country through National Research Foundation.

Autonomous bodies to be set up through an Act of Parliament.

Increase funding for researches in all disciplines; building research capacity at academic institutes and the universities; creating beneficial links between researchers, government and industries; recognizing outstanding researches through special prizes and seminars.

The NRF will initially have 4 major division: Science, Technology, Social sciences, Arts & Humanities.

A think tank and custodian of Indian education: Rashtriya Shiksha Aayog/National Education Commission to be constituted chaired by the PM with Union Minister of Education as the Vice chairman having direct responsibility for all matters.

Overall, the NEP2020 is esthetic, prospective with special interest in development of language and literature learning especially indigenous languages. It is still a matter of concern how effectively will it be implemented.

(The author is a dental surgeon, securing his graduation in 2019 from Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand State University (MJPRSU), Uttar Pradesh and is currently serving as an intern in Kothiwal Dental College and Research Centre (KDCRC), Uttar Pradesh. The views expressed in the article are his own)

12 Lifestyle

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

How to evaluate the Vaastu of your house?

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ou can evaluate the Vaastu of your house by answering the questions given below and totalling the marks scored. If your score is within 50, then the Vaastu of your house is below average.

51 to 60 = average, 61 to 70 = good, 71 to 90 is very good and above 91 is excellent.

The keys are given as follows: N= north, E= east, S= South, W= west, NE= northeast, SE= southeast, NW= northwest, SW= southwest.

Q 1. Where is your main gate/entrance?

Ans. NE = 10, E =9, N = 8, western NW & southern SE=7, W/S= 6, northern NW= 5 eastern SE= 4, Southwest =3.

Q 2. Where is the well or underground tank?

Ans. NE =10. East= 9, North= 8, NW = 7, West= 6, South= 5, SE= 4, SW= 3.

Q 3. Where is the kitchen

located?

Ans. SE = 10, NW= 9, East = 8, West = 7, South= 6, North= 5, NE= 4, SW= 3, Centre=2 Q 4. Where is the master bedroom?

Ans. SW= 10, S = 9, W = 8, NW = 7, N= 6, E= 5, SE= 4, NE = 3.

Q 5. Where is the children’s bedroom?

Ans. NW = 10, SE = 9, North = 8, East= 7, NE= 6, West=5, South= 4, SW = 3.

Q 6. The house is built in which area of the plot?

Ans. SW= 10, South= 9, West= 8, NW= 7, SE= 6, N= 5, East= 4, NE = 3.

Q 7. Where is the guest room?

Ans. NW= 10, North=9, East=8, NE=7, SE= 6, West=5, South=4, SW= 3.

Q 8. Where is the drawing/ living room?

Ans. East =10, North=9, NE=8, SE=7, NW=6, West=5,

South=4, SW= 3.

Q 9 Where is the servant’s room quarter /garage?

Ans. NW= 10, SE=9, North= 8, East=7, West=6, South=5, NE=4, SW = 3.

Q 10. Where are the toilets placed?

Ans. NW= 10, West=9, South=8, SE=7, North=6, East=5, SW=4, NE=3, Centre=2.

This is just a simple method for a layman to find out whether the house is Vaastuperfect or not. It is seen in practice that it is very tough to go beyond a score of 75.

Please note that though a toilet in the south or west has equal significance, the marks given are 8 and 9 respectively.

Similarly, an entrance in central west or central south is good but it is marked slightly lower. When all the parameters are taken into consideration, it balances out. Some minor Vaastu parameters like colour,

vacant space in the compound etc are not considered.

Hemanta Kumar Sarmah

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

Assam Flood 2020: Actor Four Assam Police Akshay Kumar to Donate Rs 1 Personnel awarded with crore to CM Flood Relief Medal for Excellence in

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ollywood actor Akshay Kumar has pledged to contribute Rs 1 crore each to Assam and Bihar chief minister’s Relief Fund for the people affected by floods in the respective states.

When it comes to extending support for a cause or coming forward to help the people of his country and offer aid to areas hit by natural calamities, Kumar has always taken the lead.

Akshay had previously donated Rs 25 crore to the PM’s relief fund for Covid-19,

an additional Rs 2 crore to the Mumbai Police Foundation, and Rs 3 crore to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to assist in the making of personal protection equipment, masks, and rapid testing kits to help the battle against the novel coronavirus.

In May last year, Akshay had donated Rs 1 crore for the assistance of the victims of Cyclone Fani in Odisha.

Reportedly, the chief ministers of both the states have expressed their gratitude and appreciated his gesture.

Investigation

F

our police personnel from Assam are among the recipients of Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Investigation for 2020.

The awardees are- DIG Devojyoti Mukherjee, Superintendent of Police Rosie Kalita, Inspector Rustam Raj Brahma and SubInspector (UB) Abhishek Bodo.

“It was a very sudden announcement but I am deeply humbled to have received this award,” an elated Rosie Kalita told G Plus .

A total of 121 police pe rsonne l, including 21 women police officers have been selected for the prestigious award. Out of these, 15 awardees are from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), 10 each are from Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra Police, eight from Uttar Pradesh Police

and seven each from Kerala and West Bengal Police.

Last year, 96 police personnel, including 13 women officers, had received the coveted award.

This medal was constituted in 2018 with the objective to promote high professional standards of investigation of crime and to recognise excellence in investigation by officers.

That year, 101 police personnel had received the award.

Feature

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

13

When Guwahati used to be Gauhati...

The author reminisces about the old, sleepy Gauhati that held its own rustic charm and traces its transformation into its current bustling metropolitan avatar.

I

was born in the early 1950s in ‘Gauhati’ (now spelt Guwahati) in Assam. Those born during that time have witnessed tremendous transformation of this city.

Gauhati then was a small town with a modest population. I still remember the red coloured building of Assam Flour Mills on GS Road - a landmark and the entry point of the city if one comes from upper Assam side.

That building was our indicator

Carrying a telegram form when travelling to remote areas was almost mandatory and the ‘Arrived safely’ message sent from the destination’s telegraph office to home was virtually a norm. of having reached Gauhati. From Khanapara to that point, there was hardly any habitation. On the Maniram Dewan Road, The Assam Tribune was the last landmark beyond which there was practically no road. On the western side, Maligaon was the last point though there was hardly any population beyond Santipur.

Panbazar was the hub of eateries, book stalls, confectioners, departmental stores etc. There was ‘The Delight,’ a posh restaurant in Panbazar where the Kalpataru building currently stands. It was unlike any restaurant today; its decor was aristocratic with a high ceiling and beautiful chandeliers and we had to think twice before entering it. There was a verandah in front of the BN Dey liquor shop where groups of youngsters used to assemble – the proverbial addda point of different generations of young people over many decades.

The famous departmental store was the Jamatullah opposite the Mahamaya restaurant. The Lawyer’s Book Stall was probably the only book store where one could get all the required books.

Bharali Brothers, Radio Phonics and Assam Sports House used to play loud music in the evenings, making the atmosphere lively.

As a student of Don Bosco

School during 1960s and Cotton College during the early 1970s, we loved visiting restaurants like The Gauhati Diary, Kalpana, Madhumita, Mahamaya and so on. How can one forget the tasty liver fry, Mughlai paratha and Chicken cutlet served in those outlets, particularly Madhumita?

These places were famous for addas by the intellectuals just like the Calcutta Coffee House.

Fancy (Phasi) Bazar was the hub of fashionable stores for clothing.

The Delhi Cloth House catered to the school uniforms of almost all the schools. There was a petrol pump where the Mohni store is now located. Barogola was another landmark store in that area. Kunja Thakur’s shop catered to the needs of all items required for religious functions.

In those days, we were very fond of watching English movies. Every Sunday there were morning shows in almost every cinema hall. We normally went to Urvashi Cinema to watch English movies.

There was no railway station in Gauhati. One had to cross the Brahmaputra River by ferry to go to Amingaon to catch a train. The trains ran only on metre gauge tracks. The first over-bridge in the town was constructed at Maligaon during the Congress session held in 1955. The rail-cumroad bridge over the Brahmaputra was completed only in 1962. There was a shuttle train which ran from Uzan Bazar (near Satrakar Temple) to Maligaon, basically for the railway employees working in Maligaon. This shuttle train was abandoned a long time back but the track is still there. If similar facility was available today, it would have served very well for the commuters just like the local trains in Mumbai.

There were few schools in Gauhati and the prominent ones were Cotton Collegiate, Kamrup Academy, TC School, Arya Vidyapeeth, Bengali School, Panbazar Girls, St. Mary’s School and Don Bosco School. During those days St. Mary’s English High School was a co-educational, where the boys used to study for five years from Class A to Class 3.

Thereafter, the boys automatically joined Don Bosco High School.

There was no primary section in Don Bosco in those days.

We have seen huge developments in electronics and tele-communication during our lifetime. In our own place we have seen manually operated fans (pangkha), manually operated

Dipak Kumar Das

Mahamaya Restaurant in Panbazar that is over 100 years old is a true representative of ‘Gauhati’ gramophones, grain crushers (Dheki) and Xals for weaving. We also had a ‘bharaal’ to store the grain and a ‘gohali’ for the cows.

In our childhood days, we used to ride in our Ford convertible car bearing registration number ASK 303. Not many people owned vehicles during those days. There was a radio made by my uncle which was used by the elders to listen to the news clandestinely during World War II, as radio was banned during that time.

Telephones were manual then.

One had to call the telephone exchange to make a call. The required number was conveyed to the exchange and then one had to wait for the line to be connected.

One had to mention ‘lightning’ or ‘ordinary’ to describe the urgency level of calls. The most urgent mode of communication was the telegram. Carrying a telegram form when travelling to remote areas was almost mandatory and the ‘Arrived safely’ message sent from the destination’s telegraph office to home was virtually a norm.

There were hardly any diagnostic centres in Gauhati.

Doctors did not have access to any diagnostic reports; they relied on physical examinations of the tongue, eyes, stomach and prescribed medicines accordingly.

In most cases, their diagnoses were correct. In Uzan Bazar area, late Dr. Bhubaneswar Barooah ran a clinic catering to the needs of the people. Late Guruprasad Barua who was associated with the clinic was full of humour and very sincere in his work. People

of Uzan Bazar area will always remember the services rendered

by Dr. Akhay Dutta, who was not even an MBBS, but who always attended patients in times of need even at odd hours.

The present day Nehru Stadium was actually a dumping ground. It was known as Morixali. Late Radha Gobinda Barua who was keen to develop sports in Assam, dreamt of building a stadium on that plot of land. In order to raise funds, he organized wrestling shows in the Church Field now converted to Nehru Park. We remember having seen the great wrestlers like Dara Singh, his brother Randhawa, King Kong, Tiger Joginder Singh, Saudagar Singh, John Da Silva, Jenny Murphy etc. When the stadium was being constructed, we thought that it belonged to RG Barua as he was always seen at the site supervising everything.

On completion, it became the hub of many sporting activities. The Bordoloi Trophy for football was a huge attraction in which many foreign clubs participated. The tennis courts within the stadium complex were used to host India vs Ceylone (Sri Lanka) Davis Cup match. Tennis greats like Metrovelli of USSR, Illie Nastase, Ion Tiriac of Romania had come to play on these courts along with Indian stalwarts like Ramanathan Krishnan, Premjit Lal and Joydeep Mukherjee among others. Even the indoor stadium witnessed many famous table tennis and badminton players.

Prior to the Nehru Stadium, the Judges Field was the hub of almost all outdoor sporting

activities. Football tournaments as well as cricket tournaments were played on that ground. The Uzan Bazar Bihu Committee also organized sporting activities like cycle race, horse race etc on that ground. It was also the venue for public meetings where people in thousands gathered to listen to the speeches of Jawaharlal Nehru, Jayprakash Narayan, Vinoba Bhave, etc.

From Gauhati then to Guwahati now, the transformation has been massive. Guwahati now has expanded from Khanapara to Azara and beyond, from Pamohi to North Guwahati and beyond.

The population today will surely cross 20-25 lakhs and vehicular traffic has increased manifold.

With the increase in population, the demand for housing has also increased. People have started looking for apartments rather than buying land and building their own houses. Several multistoried buildings have come up at locations which are not suitable for such construction. The unplanned expansion of Guwahati city has led to the drainage system being affected. The filling up of all wetlands is perhaps the main reason for frequent floods within the city limits.

We people often say that we loved ‘Gauhati’ more. But does it mean that we hate Guwahati of today? No, never. We must accept the changes and be happy. We all love our city and we will continue to do so.

(The author is a retired banker from a nationalised bank. The views expressed are his own)

14 Guest Column

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

HAL LCA Tejas: India’s Own Flying Machine T he recent development in the Indian defence sector has seen a significant up gradation with the induction of the first batch of five Rafales flown in to India amid the rising SinoIndian border tension in the area near the disputed Pangong Lake, in Ladakh and near the border between Sikkim and the Tibet Autonomous Region as on-going military standoff gets more intense between India and China with brutal consequences being witnessed.

With the Rafale news doing the rounds, the country’s very own indigenously manufactured Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) – Tejas - is worthy of similar acknowledgement.

It has been built to match the ever growing requirements of the Indian Air Force.

With frequent border skirmishes that have gained prominence in the international circuit, the arrival of the first batch of Rafale equips India to obstruct China’s ambitious expansionist policy at a time when it is most needed. The deal for the procurement of thirty six Dassault Rafale from France over a stipulated timeframe has been considered as a turning point for India as such procurement adds to its powerful military competency. With the most advanced 4.5th generation fighter jets joining the Indian Air Force fleet, India makes history in terms of consolidating its defence capabilities to a more comprehensive standard.

However, with the Rafale news doing the rounds, the country’s very own indigenously manufactured Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) – Tejas - is worthy of similar acknowledgement. It has been built to match the ever growing requirements of the Indian Air Force. The LCA Tejas is an

outcome of thirty two long years of labour put into developing a flying machine that safeguards the national security of the country.

Pratik Dhar

Introduction of the light combat aircraft (LCA) programme

Ever since India got independence, the nation has faced multiple military threats from neighbouring countries in the past. History has definitely played a crucial role in guiding the nation to achieve the goal of self-reliance in terms of research and development of potent weapon system and production of the same to defend the sovereignty of the country.

The LCA programme is an example of such self-reliance.

The programme was launched in the early eighties predominantly for two reasons. The first was the development of a replacement aircraft for the long serving Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 which had been in action since the 1970s and secondly, to provide a momentum for technological advancement of domestic aviation potentiality. In order for these goals to materialize, the government of India, in 1984, established the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) to manage the LCA programme.

While various DRDO and CSIR laboratories along with public and private sector industries participated in the venture, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) became the principal partner of the programme. It was in 2003 that the LCA was officially named “Tejas”.

Tejas – the light combat supersonic fighter

With its maiden flight on 4th January, 2001, this single engine aircraft is the lightest and the smallest multirole supersonic fighter aircraft in its class. It is the second supersonic fighter developed by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) after the HAL HF-24 Marut.

It comes in both fighter and trainer versions and uses fourth generation technology for its manoeuvring. Advanced composite materials have been used for its build up to reduce the weight of the aircraft. The LCA Tejas carries a range of airto-air, air-to-surface, precision guided and standoff weaponries and is based on tailless delta wing configuration. The allweather capability and mid-airrefuelling option of the aircraft makes it highly adaptable.

FEATURES OF TEJAS High degree of agility.

Mid-air-refuelling option.

New variant can fly nonstop for over eight hours.

Can carry long range and beyond visual range weapons.

Specifications of TEJAS SPECS

Tejas MK 1

Tejas MK 2

Length

13.2 m

14.65 m

Height

4.4 m

4.86 m

Engine

F404

F414

Wingspan

8.2 m

8.5 m

Wing Area

38.4 m2

38.4 m2

Hard Points

7+1

11

Internal Fuel

2400 Kg

3300 Kg

Empty Weight

7040 Kg

7000 Kg

Maximum Thrust

84 KN

98 KN

Maximum Speed

1.6 Mach

1.8 Mach

Maximum Take Off Weight

13500 Kg

17500 Kg

Maximum Payload Capacity

3910 Kg

6500 Kg

TEJAS (Unit Cost) Initial Operational Cost (IOC) MK 1

Rs. 162 crores

Final Operational Cost (FOC) MK 1

Rs. 299.45 crores

MK 1A

Rs. 457.83 crores

The upgradation process With LCA Tejas Mk 1 version already in operation, trials of India’s upgraded HAL Tejas Mk 2 are reportedly in the final stage as tests are being carried out under guided supervision. The 4.5th generation HAL Tejas MK 2 version carries added features like better serviceability, enhanced electronic warfare suit and comparatively faster weapon loading time. It is a single engine delta wing, multirole

fighter like its predecessor the LCA Tejas Mk 1 but falls under the medium weight category.

Sanctioned by the Government of India in 2009, the Mk 2 edition will be equipped with advance AESA radar system. The MK 2 fitted with a heavier F414GE-INS6 engine is set to debut in 2022 and expected to join the Indian Air Force by 2026.

The HAL Tejas Mark 2 has been projected as a Dassault Mirage 2000 replacement to conduct operations similar in nature.

SOME IMPORTANT

Following months of talk and an agreed deal amounting to Rs 39000 crores between IAF and HAL, the latter expects an order of 83 Tejas MK 1A variant jets to be confirmed before the end of this year. As the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), India’s national security decision-making body, approves of this, a formal contract will be signed by IAF and HAL. With delivery of the aircrafts expected to start within three years of the signing of the contract, it concludes with all aircrafts being delivered in a five-year deadline. Under ‘MAKE IN INDIA’ initiative, the state run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is getting ready with its major plan to outsource a significant portion of the manufacturing responsibility to private players such as Larson & Toubro, Dynamatic Technologies, VEM Technologies and Alpha Designs to supply major part of fuselage for the aircrafts with a target to double its annual production capacity to meet the requirements.

The aerial capabilities of the LCA Tejas has always been in question because of its slow paced development and occasional quality issues, but its ceaseless evolution and routine improvements can ensure India’s position on a higher level in the global platform by making India a key exporter of defence equipments.

The induction process of the indigenous aircraft into the IAF is a well calculated move that aims to create self-sufficiency while boosting the homegrown integrated defence network.

(The author is a post graduate in Journalism and Mass Communication. He has been involved in writing, branding and advertising for the past eight years. The views expressed in the article are his own)

News This Week

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

A quick round up of the news that mattered during the past week

1

Home Minister Amit Shah tests negative for COVID-19

Home Minister Amit Shah, on August 14 tested negative for COVID-19. “Today my coronavirus test report has come negative. I thank God and at the moment I express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have blessed me and my family by wishing me well. Will stay in home isolation for a few more days on the advice of doctors,” Shah tweeted.

Amit Shah, 55, had tested positive for COVID-19 on August 2 after which he was admitted to Medanta Hospital in Gurgaon. He also expressed gratitude towards the hospital staff saying, “I also thank all the doctors and paramedical staff of Medanta Hospital who have helped me in fighting Corona infection and who have been treating me.”

2

PM Modi becomes longest serving non-Congress Prime Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the fourth-longest serving Prime Minister of India surpassing Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s tenure. The feat also makes PM Modi the country’s longest-serving Prime Minister not from the Congress. PM Modi has now been in office for over six years, winning backto-back terms with 282 and 303 LokSabha seats in 2014 and 2019 respectively. Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the Prime Minister of India for a total of 2,273 days. Narendra Modi, who assumed charge on 26 May 2014, has spent 2,273 days in office as of 14 August 2020. This means that come 15 August, he will break Vajpayee’s record. Modi is the fourth longest-serving prime minister of India.

3

Payment of insurance premium, school fees, hotel bills to come under IT scanner

To ostensibly widen the tax base, the Income Tax Department of India plans to expand the list of reportable financial transactions. As per the revised list, hotel payments over Rs 20,000, life insurance premium payment over Rs 50,000 and health insurance premium payment over Rs 20,000 will now come under the IT-scanner. Besides these, donations and payment of school/ college fees over Rs 1 lakh a year, foreign travel, domestic business class air travel, purchase of white goods, jewellery and paintings over Rs 1 lakh, demat accounts and even bank lockers are proposed to be included in the list of the Statement of Financial Transactions (SFT).

4

No evidence of Covid transmission through food: WHO

The World Health Organization said, on August 13, that it saw no evidence of coronavirus being spread by food or packaging and urged people not to be afraid of the virus entering the food chain. Two cities in China had earlier claimed to have found traces of the coronavirus in imported frozen chicken wings from Brazil and on outer packaging of frozen Ecuadorian shrimp, raising fears that contaminated food shipments might cause a new outbreak. “People should not fear food, or food packaging or processing or delivery of food,” WHO head of emergencies programme Mike Ryan told a briefing in Geneva. “There is no evidence that food or the food chain is participating in transmission of this virus. And people should feel comfortable and safe,” he added.

5

Jharkhand education minister Jagarnath Mahto enrols in Class 11

Jharkhand Education Minister Jagarnath Mahto on Monday enrolled in Class 11 at a government affiliated inter-college under his Assembly constituency of Dumri saying that there is no age limit to learning and education. He has opted for Arts stream at Devi Mahto Smarak Inter college Navadih in Bokaro district. “When I was being sworn in as education minister, some people asked what a 10th pass minister would do. This is my reply to those people,” Mahto said, when asked why he wanted to pursue further education. Jagarnath Mahto had passed in 1995. On the occasion of his getting admission, Mahto said that 4,416 schools are going to open soon in Jharkhand, reports ANI.

6

15

Ram Mandir trust head tests COVID positive, shared stage with PM Modi

The head of the Ram Janambhoomi trust in Ayodhya, who shared stage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several other VIPs during the groundbreaking ceremony for a Ram Mandir last week, has tested positive for COVID-19. Mahant Nritya Gopal Das was among the five people on the stage at the grand ceremony at Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh on August 5. “Maharaj-ji suffered from fever before testing positive for COVID. The fever is now normal and he is stable. The Chief Minister has directed that Maharaj-ji be shifted to the Medanta Hospital,” Sarvagya Ram Mishra, District Magistrate of Mathura, told reporters.

7

Vaishno Devi Yatra to resume from August 16 with certain restrictions

The Vaishno Devi Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir will resume from August 16, nearly five months after it was suspended due to the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

The government has decided to open religious places or places of worship in the union territory. However, the government has issued several guidelines for the pilgrims undertaking the yatra. There shall be a ceiling of maximum 5000 pilgrims per day till 30th September 2020. Further, a maximum of 500 pilgrims per day will be permitted within this ceiling in a graded manner from outside Jammu & Kashmir. Registration of pilgrims should be made only through online mode, in order to avoid any assembly of persons at current counters.

8

Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt diagnosed with lung cancer

9

If COVID is defeated in 10 states, the country will win the fight: PM Modi

Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt, 61, has been detected with stage four lung cancer. On August 11, Dutt took to social media to announce that he is taking a break. “Hi friends, I am taking a short break from work for some medical treatment. My family and friends are with me and I urge my well-wishers not to worry or unnecessarily speculate. With your love and good wishes, I will be back soon,” read the note Dutt shared on social media. The actor was recently admitted to Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital, but he was discharged in a day. His oxygen level was fluctuating between 90-92% when he was admitted. As per the sources, the diagnosis revealed that he was suffering from stage four lung cancer.

PM Narendra Modi on August 11 interacted with chief ministers and representatives of ten states to discuss the COVID-19 situation in the country. The states present during the meeting were Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Punjab, Bihar, Gujarat, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh.

PM Modi told the chief ministers that there was a need to increase testing in states that have a low testing rate and a high positivity rate — particularly, Bihar, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Telangana.

“If we defeat COVID in these 10 states, then the country will also win,” ANI quoted the prime minister as saying. “Today 80 per cent of active cases in India are in these ten states.

Hence, the role of all these states is very big in the fight against COVID-19,” said PM Modi.

10

Daughter entitled to equal property rights under amended Hindu succession act: SC

The Supreme Court on August 11 said in its order that a daughter is entitled to equal property rights under the amended Hindu Succession Act. The Court also said that daughters will have the right over parental property even if the coparcener had died prior to the coming into force of the Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005. Although the amendment was applicable to Hindu daughters as coparceners who died after coming of the act, there was no clarity on whether it will have retrospective effect.

“Daughters cannot be deprived of their right to equality conferred by Section 6 of the Act,” the bench said, adding that all matters pending in trial courts on this issue be decided in six months.

16 Catching Up

| Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2020

Remembering

PIC OF THE

Art of the week

WEEK

Late Dr Rahat Indori| Art: stencil_art_world

Artist: Sanjeev Handique | The North East Cancer Hospital

Barasha Das @Barasha_mi2

Mukherjee Lodge and the Maharana Club

A

n old double storey building at Danish Road, Panbazar. A century-old monument about to be lost amongst the new mega structures in that vicinity of this fast growing metropolis.

Let’s talk about the Maharana Athletic Club.

Located just opposite the Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Hospital in Panbazar, the building is a major landmark known after the club that it housed.

Did you know that this house was originally known as “Mukherjee Lodge?”

It was built by Panchu Gopal Mukherjee, the first Indian Deputy Commissioner of British-ruled Assam in 1900. Mukherjee was British by heart. The portraits of the English Queen and King were displayed proudly on the verandah of the house even many years after independence.

As an orthodox Hindu, Mukherjee hosted a sadhu in this house who performed ‘puja’ and other religious activities here. But after the sadhu’s sudden demise

Marching ahead with precautions | Photo: Surajit Sharma

So the government has finally announced curfew relaxations!

Public transport is allowed, eating out is allowed, going t o mall is also allowed but the one thing which isn’t allowed is pillion riding. 5 lockdowns later pillion riding still remains limited only for women, children, and the elderly but not for men.

P.S. Getting reminded of some old scooty advertisement, where girls said, ‘Why should boys have all the fun?

in a road accident, rumours went rife that the first floor of the house was haunted. The family locked up the upper floor. After Panchu Gopal Mukherjee’s death, his family members went back to Calcutta. The ground floor was given on rent but the top floor remained locked.

The Maharana Athletic Club that was established in 1907 bought this top floor later.

Reportedly, when the rooms were opened they found an old bed with its mosquito net still hanging, not touched for years. Everything was rotten and decaying. The rooms were cleaned up and used for hosting players from outside who came to the city to play football matches. However, nobody ever complained of any haunting experience.

A Michigan farm has remodeled its 13-acre corn maze which spells “COVID Go Away,” when viewed from above. The farm shared a picture of the maze message on Facebook which has become a viral hit. “Stomp out ‘Covid Go Away’ as you wander through the 13 acre corn maze this fall! Opening September 12, 2020,” Johnson’s Giant Pumpkins wrote while sharing the picture. The image has collected nearly 2,000 shares and hundreds of comments. It also made it to Reddit, where hundreds of users applauded the farm’s creativity.

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