17 FEB,2011 HERALD PUBLICATION PVT LTD

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Sports: Sachin not captain material — Azhar Pg 16

Business: Budget to give clarity Pg 13 on reforms — PM

Life is not so short but that there is always time enough for courtesy.

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Goa’s Heartbeat: Britney Spears named ultimate gay icon Pg 4 Muslims take part in a procession in Panjim to mark the festival of Eid Milad-unNabi on Wednesday. Eid Milad-un Nabi or Maulid, is the Islamic festival which marks the birth anniversary of the Prophet Mohammed, who was born in the Saudi Arabian city of Mecca on the 12th day of Rabi-ul-Awwal.

— Emerson

IN BRIEF IIM-A mulling overseas foray Top B-school Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIM-A) said it was exploring the possibility of setting up campuses in Dubai and Singapore.

“We are looking at the possibility, but I think there is still a year left till we can set up campuses overseas in Dubai and Singapore,” IIM-A Director Samir Barua told reporters.

“Whether it would be satellite campuses or programmes to be offered from such centres will have to be discussed with the faculty and the Governing Board first,” he said. – (PTI)

Photo by Rozario Estibeiro

Sheila Dikshit revamps Cabinet Two years into her third term, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit reshuffled her Cabinet by dropping a Minister, inducting a loyalist and changing portfolios of almost all Ministers including senior leader A K Walia who has been moved to Health from the plum Finance Ministry. – (PTI)

Fate of American in Pak uncertain As a tense US-Pak standoff persisted over diplomatic immunity to an American official arrested for killing two men in Lahore, Pakistan’s top leadership made it clear that the fate of the accused would be decided by the courts or relatives of the victims.

Both President Asif Ali Zardari and Premier Yousuf Raza Gilani told US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman John Kerry, that the case of Raymond Davis was currently in Pakistan’s courts. – (PTI)

Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan during the announcement of a TV talent show in Mumbai on Wednesday.

Boost for disabled girl’s exam attempt A disabled girl’s attempt to clear her secondary examinations got a boost with former Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje urging the State Governor to allow extra time for her in the test.

The girl had lost both the arms due in an accident in childhood, but, with the course of time, she had learnt to write by holding the pen with her toes. – (PTI)

Centre will decide on CBI probe into drug nexus: CM HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 16

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat on Wednesday said the decision to hand over drug nexus case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) would be taken

by Union Home Ministry.

“Home Minister Ravi Naik, in the recently held Legislative Assembly, had tabled the letter written by Chief Secretary urging the Union Home Ministry to hand over the drug-nexus case to CBI”, Kamat told reporters.

Pointing to the CBI’s reply before the High Court, Kamat said the State Government cannot be blamed for this as the CBI is governed by the Union Home Ministry that has to hand over the case to the agency.

“The matter is now not in our hand. CBI will investigate the

KAMAT TALK l

Ravi Naik had tabled the letter written by Chief Secretary in the Assembly urging the Union Home Ministry to hand over the drug-nexus case to CBI.

l

The matter is now not in our hand. CBI will investigate the case only after receiving communication from the Central ministry.

case only after receiving communication from the Central ministry”, he added.

In a reply before the Goa

Bench of the Bombay High Court, CBI had mentioned it had not received any such request for taking over the case.

CBI had stated that such cases should be investigated by the State police or the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB).

Last year, Israeli drug peddler Yaniv Benaim alias Atala had admitted links with the policemen and accordingly, seven police officers were suspended and arrested by the Crime Branch.

In yet another revelation, earlier this year, Police Sub-Inspector (PSI) Sunil Gudlar was caught on camera trying to push drugs to two foreigners. Gudlar is under suspension.

After intense pressure, the Home Minister had made a statement on the floor of the House that both the drug nexus cases were being handed over to CBI. The Leader of Opposition Manohar Parrikar had asked Naik to table the letters written to the Union Home Ministry by the State Government.

Scamsters will be brought to book: PM Says not quitting, got a job to do PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 16

Admitting that “some compromises” have to be made in managing a coalition, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today declared that his Government will bring the wrongdoers in scams to book but ruled out quitting from his post.

He asserted that his Government was not lameduck nor was he a lameduck Prime Minister and it was a functioning Government that would go after the scamsters.

On the 2G scam involving former Telecom Minister A Raja, the Prime Minister said concerns were expressed but he did not press for auction after Ministries of Telecom and Finance agreed to go by the prevailing practice of not auctioning the spectrum which was also supported by expert bodies like TRAI and Telecom Commission.

About re-induction of Raja despite complaints, he said in a coalition, it was not in his hands about whom to be inducted from a coalition partner. “You cannot suggest your preferences and you have to go by the choice of the leader of the party”.

“Raja and Dayanidhi Maran were the choice of DMK and I had no reason to feel that anything seriously wrong has been done. I did not feel that I had the authority to object to Raja’s entry although complaints were coming from some companies who had not benefitted. I was not in a position to make up my mind about Raja”, he said.

The Prime Minister said “in a coalition, there is a coalition dharma. Obviously, things are not entirely what I would like them to be. I never felt like resigning as I have a job to do.

“The country voted our party to be the leader of the UPA coalition and we have lot of unfinished tasks to be accomplished.

I have never felt of giving up halfway. I will stay the course. I never thought of resigning,” he told television editors at an interaction here.

During the 70-minute interaction, the Prime Minister fielded a wide range of questions covering mainly issues of

corruption including the ISRO’s deal on S-band spectrum, governance deficit, economy and Parliament standoff.

Singh also made it clear that he was not afraid of facing any Parliamentary committee including a JPC on 2G scam.

He said all efforts were being made and talks were on with Opposition to ensure smooth Budget session of Parliament.

“I don’t say I have never made any mistake. But I am not that big a culprit as being made out to be,” he said in reply to a question whether he would accept personal responsibility. as head of the Government.

The country voted our party to be the leader of the UPA coalition and we have lot of unfinished tasks. I have never felt giving up halfway. I will stay the course. I never thought of resigning.

— Manmohan Singh

“I am conscious about personal responsibility. I feel about it. My compuslion is that I have to bear a lot because we cannot have elections in every six months. Some compromises have to be made in managing a coalition. A coalition Government has to be viewed in a context that no single party has emerged to rule by itself ”, he said.

In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister referred to the media expose of various scams including the Commonwealth Games, ISRO deal, Adarsh housing affairs but asked the media not to give an image that India was a scam-driven country and nothing good was happening.

Ambani has date with CBI; questioned on dual tech PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 16

The CBI today questioned ADAG chairman Anil Ambani amid allegations that his group received favours from former Telecom Minister A Raja in getting dual technology and a role for Reliance Telecom in promoting Swan Telecom.

Ambani, 51, arrived at the CBI headquarters much ahead of the called time of 5 pm and waited at the reception before he was quizzed by the agency officials, CBI sources said.

He did not speak to the media

before entering the CBI headquarters for giving clarifications on the possible role of Reliance Telecom Limited (RTL), a subsidary of ADAG, in Swan.

Swan Telecom, in which Tiger Traders Private Limited have 90.13 and RTL has 9.87 equity share capital, has been under the scanner over alleged diversion of funds to DMK-owned Kalaignar television.

DB Realty group Managing Director Shahid Usman Balwa was arrested by the CBI earlier this month.

After the appearance of Am-

Eight more towns get green nod HERALD CORRESPONDENT NEW DELHI, FEB 16

LUCKY EIGHT

The Environment and Forests Ministry on Wednesday lifted the moratorium on environment clearance on new projects and expansions in eight more critically polluted industrial towns, in addition to five others cleared on October 26.

The moratorium was clamped on January 13 last year on 43 industrial clusters to force remedial and mitigation efforts

by State Governments and industry.

The industrial towns on which the moratorium is off, on the recommendation of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), with effect from February 15 are Navi Mumbai, Dombivali and Aurangabad in Maharashtra, Bhavnagar in Gujarat, Agra and

Navi Mumbai Dombivali Aurangabad Bhavnagar Agra Varanasi-Mirzapur Ludhiana Cuddalore Varanasi-Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh, Ludhiana in Punjab and Cuddalore in Tamil Nadu.

Tarapur in Maharashtra, Vapi in Gujarat and Patancheru-Bollarum in Andhra Pradesh were among five areas from which the moratorium was withdrawn in October.

(Continued on page 2)

bani, the sources said other top brass of telecom companies including that of Tata Tele Services and Idea would be called for clarification.

According to the CAG, four companies including Reliance Communications Ltd were provided CDMA based mobile service under Unified Access Service licence.

Based on the recommendations of TRAI, use of dual technology was permitted on October 17, 2007 and RCom is alleged to have applied even before the announcement of the

Anil Ambani at the CBI headquarters in New Delhi on Wednesday.

policy.

Reliance Communication Ltd. had complied with the requirements for permission to use dual

technology on October 19 2007 itself by depositing the non-refundable entry fee of Rs 1645 crore for 20 ser vice areas

No checks on teachers giving private tuitions?

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 16

For teachers who spend half their day in school and the rest in private tuitions, here comes bad news.

The recent Right to Education (RTE) Act has banned teachers from engaging themselves in private teaching activities.

But for them the good news is that the Education Department has no mechanism in place to check if any teacher is involved in private tuitions. Goa is yet to implement the Act in totality even as the draft rules are being framed.

A senior officer from the department said although there’s a ban on private tuitions, it will

be practically difficult to implement the ban.

“Who will come forward to complain against the teacher engaging in private tuitions?” he questioned adding that the parents themselves send their wards for tuitions.

State Education Director Dr Celsa Pinto was not available

for comment despite repeated calls.

According to RTE’s Section 28, “no teacher shall engage himself/ herself in private tuition or private teaching activity”.

Education Department officials feel that implementation of this clause would be next to impossible without support from parents.

The State already hasn’t been able to do much in this regard even after enactment of the Goa Coaching Classes (Regulation) Act, 2001.

“There are instances wherein school authorities themselves give fake affidavits stating their teachers are not involved in (Continued on page 2)

through Reliance Infocomm Ltd. The CAG had said that acceptance of bank draft from Reliance Infocomm Ltd (third party) on behalf of Reliance Communications Ltd was not in order and showed the hurry through which entry fee was deposited.

In a statement here, ADAG said, “during the course of his weekly visit to New Delhi, Ambani “met CBI officials today to clarify ongoing issues, relating to telecom matters for the years 2001 to 2010, and virtually every telecom operator in the (Continued on page 2)

This is just a train ticket to Delhi for you sir!!! These days transfers are quick...so the ticket comes first and the letter follows!

OHERALDO

Pg 2 BJP opposes eco-friendly hotel at Baga HERALD CORRESPONDENT PORVORIM, FEB 16

Calangute BJP Block president has strongly opposed the move of Goa Tourism Development Corporation and Tourism department to allow a private party to set up an eco-friendly fivestar hotel at Baga under their PPP bandwagon.

Addressing the media in a city hotel at Mapusa on Wednesday, Calangute BJP Block President Michael Lobo has stated that they will fight tooth and nail till the proposal is scrapped.

“The 52,000 sq mtr government land is a prime land in Baga worth Rs 100 crore and to boost tourism, the tourism department should utilise the land for developing the much-needed infrastructure like amusement park, good aquarium, adventure sports, Sulabh souchalayas, bathing rooms and parking lots,” stated Lobo.

“Calangute and Baga areas are already congested and hardly any open space is available

Calangute BJP Block President Michael Lobo addresses the media at Mapusa.

Photo by Anil Shankhwalker

there. There are plenty of hotel rooms in Baga and Calangute and what is needed is good infrastructure,”Lobo said.

“Since the tourism department is aware that CRZ authorities will not permit five star hotels in this area, they have mooted the proposal of eco-

friendly five-star hotel. There is some hidden agenda in this proposal,” alleged Lobo.

Calangute United President Anthony Menezes said roads in Calangute/Baga are very narrow and they are not in a position to handle additional traffic.

“The government had an-

nounced that it will construct four lane roads from Calangute to Sinquerim and Calangute to Baga to ease traffic on the existing narrow roads, but the government has not taken any step to construct these roads but instead they are planning to set up a fire-star hotel,” said Menezes.

“What is required for the residents of Baga and Calangute is a parking place for vehicles and not hotels. If the government desires to offer this place for eco-hotel, then it can offer place for Goans for setting up ecoshacks,” added Menezes.

“Under no circumstance, residents of Calangute and Baga will allow the government to set up eco-friendly 5 star hotels in the open space,” warned Menezes.

Fishing community leader Peter Carvalho, Calangute ZP member Abelina Menezes and the Arpora Panch Cliophus Fernandes were also present for the press conference.

Drug peddler remanded HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 16

Narcotic Drugs and Psy chotropic Substances (NDPS) Court has remanded an alleged drug pusher to seven day police custody for interrogation.

Suresh Kerkar (20) was arrested late on Tuesday night from Mandrem with illegal possession of 890 grams of charas, amounting to Rs 89,000.

Acting on a tip-off, the ANC raiding team laid a trap and arrested him red-handed with drugs in possession when he was waiting for his prospective customer near Askawada junction at Mandrem, Pernem.

Furtado clarifies

PANAJI, FEB 16: Sitting Corporators of Panjim Corporation Surendra Furtado and Ruth Furtado have clarified that they are contesting as Independents and therefore the issue of contesting under BJP or any political party does not arise.

Convention centre at Inox part of IFFI infrastructure: Kamat HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 16

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat said that the convention centre planned next to Inox is a minicentre and another convention centre can be built elsewhere.

Talking to reporters on Wednesday, Kamat said that the convention centre planned in the Inox courtyard is a part of IFFI infrastructure.

“It’s a small centre with around 2,000 sitting capacity. A bigger centre can come up elsewhere,” the chief minister said.

He added that the funds for the project would be sourced through Planning Commission, which in the past had recommended the convention centre for Goa. “We will approach the Planning Commission for funds.

There was already a proposal for a Convention Centre in Goa. It was supposed to be built near

Goa University,” Kamat recalled.

He said that the convention centre near Inox is to make up for the infrastructural requirement for IFFI. Kamat ruled out that traffic around Inox and Campal would be out of gear once the centre comes up. “This is a small project spread across 3,800 square metre. It will have two layer parking facility,” the chief minister said.

He said that sufficient care will be taken to ensure that parking is provided for the centre.

Making a pitch for the project, Kamat said that having all the facilities in close vicinity would help the people who come to see the films.

Kamat said that Union Information and Broadcasting Secretary Raghu Menon during his Goa visit on Tuesday went through the proposed project.

The chief minister said that

Goans shying away from Bicholim municipality goes online Konkani, says priest HERALD CORRESPONDENT BICHOLIM FEB 16

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 16

Dalgado Konknni Akademi (DKA) has decided to bring out music CDs of Konkani songs by March to impress upon Goan minds these ballads were equally rich as compared to English ones that were getting more patronisation.

“On birthdays or any joyous occasions, we hear English music being played. We want to awaken Goans that there are melodious songs in our mother-tongue too,” Fr Conceicao D’Silva said on Wednesday.

Fr D’Silva was speaking at a press conference to announce the third Konknni (Roman script) Literary and Cultural Convention at Kala Academy on February

Call to preserve traditional art HERALD CORRESPONDENT MAYEM, FEB 16

Author Madhavitai Desai has called upon the young artists to retain their traditional art with incessant efforts in the form of meditation.

She was addressing the gathering during the felicitation ceremony of senior artistes, organised by Shantswarbrahma Sangeet Vidhyalaya Bicholim at Deendayal Bhavan Bicholim on Sunday.

Madhavitai lauded the efforts of senior Goan artistes who have put sincere efforts to create new artists. She also highlighted the work of junior artist Gauri Bhat Nayak for creating new generation in the field of singing.

SSV President Santosh Bhat and Gauri Bhat Nayak were present on the ocasion.

On the occasion, Pandit Nana Shirgaonkar, Pandit Vaman Pilgaonkar, Shubhlaxmi Mandrekar, Pandit Jagganath Pethlkar, Pandit Kamlakar Naik and Narsinha Govekar were felicitated by Madhavitai.

19 and 20.

Incidentally, the theme of the convention ‘Dispottea Jivitant Konknni’ is also based on promoting Konkani language in every household.

“While outsiders, including some foreigners, living in Goa speak Konkani, Goans are shying away from the language. We want to promote this language and encourage Goans to speak it,” Fr D’Silva, who is the President of the reception committee of the event, mentioned.

The two-day convention will include presentation of papers and discussions on varied topics such as ‘Avoy Bhaxechem Vhodd p o n n’, ‘G h o r a -gh o r a mni Konknni’, ‘Konknni Bhaxecho Vistar’, ‘Boroup Vistarachem Sadon’, ‘Vachpantlean Bhaxecho

Vistar’ and other issues.

Academy President Premanand Lotlikar said that they are expecting 5000-odd Goans including guests – Bishop, Sindhudurg Diocese Rev Allwyn Baretto, Santa Cruz MLA Victoria Fernandes, President of Tiatr Academy Goa Tomazinho Cardozo and others – to be participating in the programme.

He said the convention will urge the Government to give equal status to Romi-Konkani as well.

Alongside the convention, DKA has organized two separate exhibitions wherein books of 200 titles will be exhibited for sale, and rare and old Konkani newspapers and periodicals spanning over decades will also be displayed.

Madkaikar to contest as independent HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 16

Sitting corporator of the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) Uday Madkaikar on Wednesday filed his nomination as an independent candidate for the forthcoming civic elections on March 13, a move that could be a direct challenge to Taleigao MLA Babush Monserrate.

Madkaikar was dropped by Monserratte from his panel abruptly on February 2. He was replaced by Prajat Vainginkar in ward number 17. He was part of the Babush panel in the 2006 election and had polled 560 votes beating the BJP-backed candidate in the ward by around 200 votes.

Talking to reporters, Madkaikar said it was only because of public support he has decided to contest the coming civic polls.

“People from my ward have extended their full support to me.

They have forced me to file the nomination,” he mentioned.

When questioned whether

the move meant a direct challenge to the Taleigoa strongman, the corporator replied, “I am not contesting to challenge Monserratte. I am here for my people and not for any rivalry.”

He said all the scams in which he was allgedly involved were politically motivated. Earlier this month, Panjim police had registered two complaints against him for cheating two shop owners in the Panjim Municipal Market.

In a complaint on February 10, the shop owner Altaf Jamadar had alleged that the corporator had first accepted money from him for allotting a shop in the municipal market and the same was later given away to another person.

In the second complaint filed on February 15, a shop owner Shaikh Mustak had stated one of the shops allotted to him by the sitting corporator had been transferred on someone else’s name.

CM assures better medical facilities at Canacona HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, FEB 16

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat has assured to further enhance medical facilities to the people of Canacona and bring about all the needed changes to upgrade Canacona Community Health Centre Chaudi to a decent hospital.

The assurance came, after a delegation of Canacona Health Welfare Committee (CHWC) led

by Poinguinim MLA Ramesh Tawadkar met the chief minister at his residence at Margao on Tuesday.

Apparently to keep the burning issue alive, the CHWC in an effort to streamline its earlier demands again submitted a memorandum listing out ninepoint demands to the chief minister.

The CHWC also thanked Kamat for providing an ambulance to CHC Canacona, showing positive strides towards bringing in much-needed changes in the functioning of CHC. “Canacona people are happy to see changes being brought in and are equally thankful for efforts taken by government to upgrade CHC Canacona,” said CHWC President Diogo Da

GOA

GOA, THURSDAY, 17 FEBRUARY, 2011

Silva.

According to Da Silva, Kamat informed that he is equally concerned about the health needs of Canacona people and will do every thing within his reach in bringing about improvements that are needed since long back in upgrading CHC to a full-fledged hospital.

The chief minister agreed to the views, as brought forward by people of Canacona that appointment of surgeons, physicians and gynecologists on regular basis, functioning of pathology lab, blood bank and pharmacy for 24 hours, also having radiology and a trauma unit are required to be fulfilled to give better health deal to all the people living in this distant taluka having over 50,000 population.

Da Silva said Kamat as usual asked the delegation for bring-

ing in local qualified people willing to serve in the hospital, but CHWC informed that government is better placed to find and appoint necessary medics at CHC. The nine demands again submitted to the chief minister on Tuesday are providing basic facilities at CHC, appointing fulltime specialized doctors at CHC, functioning of pathology lab from 8 am to 6 pm, blood bank, establishment of trauma unit, regular functioning of dialysis unit, up-gradation of CHC into full-fledged hospital, 24hour ambulance service and radiology/other need facilities.

Da Silva further informed that some of the newly transferred nursing staff has not joined at CHC Canacona, while he had requested the chief minister to provide specific transport facilities to the medics who are unwilling to take up postings at CHC Canacona because of inadequate residential quarters facilities.

Poinguinim MLA Ramesh Tawadkar, Da Silva, members Krishna Dessai, Luiza Fernandes, Peter Barretto and others were some of the delegation members who Kamat on Tuesday.

Residents of Bicholim need not visit the municipal office frequently in future, as most services are now available at the click of a button.

The launch of Bicholim Municipal Council (BMC) website (www.bmcgoa.com) has added another feather to its cap. BMC is reportedly the first B-class municipality to launch such website for the benefit of the people.

“This is a low cost and wide use programme implemented by BMC. It will certainly lessen the trouble of the people of being in a queue for getting just a form,” BMC Vice Chairman Shashikant Naik Harlankar told Herald.

Developed by Leo Space Panjim, the BMC website was inaugurated by Health Minister Vishwajeet Rane on February 11 and is a part of the e-governance policy.

The website also provides all the details and contacts of councillors and the key municipal staff.

“It’s just a step forward for the betterment of the people and it would lead to transparency in the working of the municipality,” said Harlankar.

“BMC was the first to develop a garbage treatment plant and now it has launched a website which will be of immense help to the public,” added Halarnkar.

“To make it more effective in the first week of April, the site will also provide an opportunity for online payment of house tax, construction licence fees and other such services provided by BMC,” he said.

“Besides, we will also implement SMS service by which people from Bicholim have to just enter their mobile phone number and information about the processing of their file would be

Three boys, scrap dealer held for theft HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, FEB 16

Canacona Police arrested three minor boys and a scrap dealer from Davorlim-Navelim in connection with two different thefts in the taluka.

According to Canacona Police, two boys were roundedup on charges of lifting an antic school bell worth Rs 5,000 from Shree Damodar Vidyalaya, Loliem.

Later, police recovered the bell sold to a scrap dealer at Davorlim-Navelim. Police arrested scrap dealer Mohamed Gawas on charges of purchasing theft goods, informed Canacona PI Raju Raut Dessai.

PI Raut Dessai further informed that in the second incident, a minor boy was arrested on charges of robbing a costly DVD and a mobile phone from a house in the taluka.

“The stolen goods are also recovered from the culprit,” said PI Raut Dessai.

PI further informed that all the three minor boys are sent to Juvenile Court for obtaining remand.

Locals complained a lot of youngsters in the taluka are falling prey in committing various types of thefts in an effort to earn fast money.

While in most cases, people avoid handing over the culprits to the police and leaves the youngsters only with strong warnings whenever they are caught in the act, it is alleged that non-handing over of such culprits to police further strengthens these tender thugs giving rise to further engage in new antisocial acts.

I&B ministry officials have already started preparing for IFFI 2011 which is scheduled in November-December.

He said that there is a suggestion that the inaugural ceremony of IFFI should be shifted from Panjim to Margao where there is spacious state-government owned Ravindra Bhavan auditorium. Kamat stated that the sitting capacity of this auditorium is more and hence it could be a preferred facility to hold grand inaugural for the festival.

The chief minister said that the preparations for IFFI 2011 have begun well in advance to eliminate the last minute confusions that crop up.

“The team of I&B ministry had come to see and discuss the issues so that right in the beginning, all things are settled.

If there is need for any discussions, that can happen right now,” Kamat stated.

Hope in sight for Goa’s traditional occupations HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 16

Bicholim Municipal Council.

Photo by Samir Umarye

sent via SMS,” he added.

The only aim of the site is to provide all the information about BMC at the click of a button.

The site provides the required information through five sub-heads.

Under the option ‘Grievances’, it provides detailed information about important official procedure pertaining to the public.

The website also provides information on construction license, occupancy certificate, NOC for water, electricity and sewage connection, house property tax transfer, income certificate, trade and occupation li-

cense, advertisement permission, house tax, birth/death certificate, information under RTI and permissions for hiring other facilities from BMC. “This section will be useful as it provides detailed information and various documents needed for it, other sections of the website are equally helpful as it try to answer almost all the queries of the people,” explained the vice chairman.

Even though at present the tender section on the website is empty, there are plans to display the upcoming tenders on the site so that anyone could get an access to it.

The State Government will constitute a council within eight days to implement recommendations by Dr Nandkumar Kamat-led task force ‘to frame appropriate package for the protection and support of traditional businesses or occupations in Goa.’ Chief Minister Digambar Kamat told reporters on Wednesday that the process of forming the council has already begun. “We are forming the council within eight days,” he specified.

The council is expected to implement the recommendations made by the task force, which has produced a detailed report.

Dr Kamat-led task force had submitted its report to the chief minister on November 30, 2010, after an extensive study on the traditional businesses in Goa. The task force had considered traditional occupations largely in the unorganised sectors that were in existence before Liberation.

The report had identified 70,000 to 80,000 potential beneficiaries and had recommended compulsory accreditation for them.

The task force had also recommended a single-window approach through a nodal agency.

“The task force recommends for all the accredited beneficiaries a single composite package should be prepared,” the report said adding considering the constraint of funds, the government needs to fix physical targets and try to do justice to all the talukas, SC, ST, OBC, minorities and women.

It also recommends overall physical target of 50,000 beneficiaries for the first three years. The task force was assigned to identify traditional occupations of Goa and identify their short-term and long-term needs for their protection and promotion.

It was also asked to prepare time-bound detailed action plan for protection and promotion of these traditional occupations.

IFFI reels on, but a film award is stuck HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 16

Even three months after the Young Jury Award was announced during the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2010, the award winner, Neel Madhab Panda, who bagged the award for his extraordinary film ‘I am Kalam’ is yet to receive it.

IFFI organizers who constituted this award in association with Lokmat group of newspapers have failed to give it to the director Panda, although his name was announced during the

concluding ceremony on December 2, last year.

Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) spokesperson Silvia Rebello said that they are waiting for the communication from Lokmat group to finalize the dates to give this award.

ESG’s Chief Executive Officer Manoj Srivastava is in Berlin and is expected to return later this week.

Lokmat group on the other hand has said that ESG’s Executive Committee or Governing Council has not met after IFFI 2010.

FROM PAGE 1 Ambani has date with CBI

country”. It said no summons of any kind have been issued by CBI to Ambani.

The ADAG statement said, “neither Reliance Telecom nor RCOM nor any Reliance ADA Group individual, company or affiliate held even a single share in Swan Telecom Ltd at the time of grant of the 2G licence to them in January, 2008, or at any time thereafter”.

More towns get green nod

A ministry press note said verification of action plans of another 25 critically polluted areas is expected to be completed in another three-four weeks, while the ministry is yet to receive the revised action plans are Jodhpur, Bhiwadi and Pali in Rajasthan, Korba in Chhattisgarh and Delhi’s most polluted Naqjafgarh drain basin that includes Anand Parbat, Naraina, Okhla and Wazirpur that are all industrial areas.

The CPCB had carried out a comprehensive environment assessment of 88 important industrial clusters in the country in 2009 at the instance of the ministry and found 43 of them “critically polluted” where the CEPI (comprehensive environmental pollution index) score was as high as 70 or more.

While imposing a moratorium in these areas on starting any new industry or expanding existing one, the ministry had said it would remain in place until the State Government prepares an action plan to deal with pollution, revises it as per CPCB review and the central and state control boards certif y in writing that the process of implementation of the revised action plans has indeed begun and implementation is being monitored systematically.

We have not been able to meet since IFFI and during the next meeting the dates for the award presentation ceremony would be decided.

-- Raju Nayak

The award was mooted by ESG member and Lokmat’s Goa edition Editor Raju Nayak on par with the one given by The

Mumbai Academy of the Moving Image (MAMI). MAMI organises the annual International Film Festival in Mumbai known as the Mumbai Film Festival (MFF).

Nayak said they have not been able to meet since IFFI and during the next meeting the dates for the award presentation ceremony would be decided.

The proposal had stated that ESG could select 12 Goan students and conduct workshop for them on how to judge films that will be screened during IFFI.

MP RIVER PROJECTS: The Ministry also released the conditional clearance granted to the major Omkareshwar and Indira Sagar irrigation and power projects on the Narmada in Madhya Pradesh with 18 conditions to be met as the projects progress.

The clearance was given by an extraordinary meeting of the 10-member Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) for River Valley and Hydroelectric Projects headed by Rakesh Nath on the basis of the final assessment of the projects’ command area development (CAD) plans done by Dr Debender Pandey committee which had also made assessments of the Sardar Sarovar Project in the river.

The EAC felt the CAD plan cannot be prepared for the whole command area in one go and hence the macro-level plans can be prepared providing the schedule and their implementation is imperative to prevent any large-scale water logging as noted by the Pandey Committee in case of the Sardar Sarovar Project in Gujarat.

The conditions imposed are: Phase-wise construction schedule, year-wise plan for providing irrigation, environment action plan to address issues like health impact, ground water table rise, pollution, impact on aqua culture and contamination of natural streams, availability of electric supply to energise farmers’ wells for ground water extraction, and plan for support to farmers for pumping for conjunctive use of water.

No checks on teachers?

private teaching”, a senior official said.

The Act which was enacted had sought to regulate private coaching classes in the State. But the department received lukewarm response for its appeal from the private players in the coaching activity to come and register themselves with the State Government.

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Pg3 GOA, THURSDAY, 17 FEBRUARY, 2011

Cash crunch blocking land Govt goes soft on Rahejas, to grant building permit acquisition for kabrastan HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 16

HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 16

Hazard a guess why acquisition proceedings to acquire land admeasuring 30,191 square meters for the proposed kabrastan at Sonsodo have hit a block?

Well, cash starved Margao Municipality -- which literally struggled to pay salaries of its employees last month – has till date defaulted in depositing 80 per cent of the total Rs 30 lakh value of the land in question with the land acquisition officer.

With the civic body’s coffers running empty as evident by the fact that the Municipal administration had to fall back on two fixed deposit certificates to pay the salary bill, the Municipality is hoping against hope that the Director of Municipal Administration will coming to its rescue by sanctioning a grant in aid for the Kabrastan project.

Herald understands that the government has already notified section 6 of the Land Acquisition Act, but has withheld publication of Section 7 of the Act on grounds that the Civic body has failed to deposit 80 per cent of the total cost of acquisition.

In fact, if officials are to be believed, directions have been issued to Margao Municipal Chief Officer Prasanna Acharya to ensure the civic body deposits the amount at the earliest with the land acquisition officer to proceed with Section 7 of the Land Acquisition Act.

When contacted, Acharya admitted that the Civic body have till date not deposited 80 per cent of the value of the land with the Land Acquisition and is awaiting the sanction of funds by the Director of Municipal Administration to meet the situation.

“I have been told by sources that the DMA has cleared the funds for the Kabrastan land acquisition project. I will check up with the DMA and take necessary action”, he said.

Incidentally, Acharya informed that his office has already written to the Margao Communidade to hand over possession of the land in question to the Civic body for development pending acquisition.

However, sources in the know informed that only part of the land admeasuring 30,191 square meters belong to the Margao Communidade, with the balance land belonging to

Margao Carnival to follow usual route HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 16

It’s official. There isn’t going to be any change in the Carnival float parade this year in the Commercial Capital.

Though the district admin-

Without completing the culvert work opposite the District and Sessions Court building, it is not possible to shift the parade route to the old market area.

-- Collector G P Naik

istration, South had resolved to shift the Shigmo and Carnival parades to the Old market area -- between the district court building and Ravindra bhavan road – last year, District Magistrate G P Naik confirmed that it is not possible to shift the parade rout to the new location.

If Naik is to be believed, work on the culvert opposite the District and Sessions court building is yet to commence till date, adding that it will take at least a month for the completion of the culvert work, thus ruling out any possibility of shifting the float parade to the old market area.

Incidentally, the district ad-

ministration headed by G P Naik had last year on the eve of the Narkasura effigy competition had resolved to shift all parades out of the city, not only on the grounds of traffic congestion, but from the security point of view.

Admitting that the administration had taken such a decision last year, Naik, however, expressed helplessness of the administration in implementation of the decision for want of the culvert opposite the district court building.

“Without the culvert work, it is not possible to shift the parade route to the old market area”, Naik said, while blaming the PWD for the inordinate delay in executing work on the culvert.

General secretary of Solid Party – the organizers of the Narkasura effigy competition – Rupesh Mahatme expressed surprise over the decision of the district administration to defer implementation of the shifting the parade route to the city’s outskirts.

“Every year, the administration is thinking of shifting the float parade to the city outskirts on the eve of the Narkasura effigy competition. The issue is then put in the cold storage for the entire year, only to be revived at the time of Narkasura competition”, he added.

a private party. It is not out of place to mention here that the Margao Municipality had adopted a resolution only to adopt the Communidade land, but later zeroed in on the private property after realizing that the Communidade owns only around 15,000 square meters at Sonsodo.

A senior district Official explained: “Unless the government notifies section 7 of the Land Acquisition Act, the Collector cannot go ahead and take the order of acquisition of the land in question under the Act. Under section 7 of the Land Acquisition Act, the government directs the Collector to take the order for acquisition of the land in question.”

The official further stated that Section 7 of the Act will come into play only as and when the Margao Civic body deposit 80 per cent of the value of the land.

Mumbai-based real estate developer, Raheja Universal may finally get the permission for construction of bungalows at its property at Carmona village – thanks to the Town Planning Board headed by Chief Minister Digambar Kamat.

Though the real estate developer has not complied with the mandatory requirement of developing the approach road to 10 meters, the Planning Board has decided to grant permission for construction of bungalows on condition that the developer complies with the road requirement at the time of getting occupancy certificate.

If the chief minister is to be believed, the Town Planning Board has agreed to issue con-

struction licence for 15 bungalows in Carmona on condition the 10 meter approach road is put in place before occupancy certificate is issued.

Chief Town Planner Morad Ahmad, when contacted, confirmed the decision taken by the Town Planning Board, but hastened to add that the minutes of the meeting are yet been finalized.

Ironically, the Town and Country Planning Department had issued the final NOC to the Rahejas for sub-division of plots in July 2010 on the condition that any secondary development in the property would be permitted only after the development of approach road of 10 meters to the property.

TCP officials in the know said

State level function to honour Shivaji HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 16

To commemorate Maratha warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Goa government has organized a State level function at Farmagudi, Ponda on February 19.

Addressing media persons, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat said that the function would be organized by the Department of Information and publicity in association with Bandora panchayat.

“The State government in the past several years has been paying tribute to the memory of this great warrior. Besides this main function, we have also decided to celebrate the occasion at all eleven talukas,” Kamat said.

The government has constituted a state level Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti celebration committee headed by Kamat.

The function to be held at premises of Shree Ganapati Devasthan, Farmagudi will have dignitaries like chief minister, Home Minister Ravi Naik and Transport Minister Ramkrishna Dhawalikar.

The formal function would be followed by a monologue and quiz competitions based on life of Shivaji for school and college students.

As a part of this state level function, a drama ‘Shivba’ will be staged by Konkan Kala Academy at Kala Academy on February 17.

Fakir Bandh residents take to streets demanding water

Coutinho along with the residents of Fakirbandh inspecting the site of the water supply breakdown near the Kudchadkar hospital.

Photo by Santosh Mirajkar HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 16

Residents of migrant inhabited Fakir Bandh took to the streets of Margao to protest against the disruption of water supply to the locality since the last two days.

It was only after the residents raised a banner of protest this morning that the authorities got into top gear and restored water supply at around 11.30 am.

Former Margao Municipal Chairperson Savio Coutinho who led the residents said that the authorities, including the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation resorted to a blame game for the last two days without rectif ying the fault.

“Finally, it came to light on Wednesday morning that the water pipeline was damaged due to digging by the ongoing

four-lane work”, he said.

The matter was taken up with the PWD Minister, Churchill Alemao, who immediately instructed senior officials in-charge of water supply to attend to the problem immediately.

The residents, who came on the road, returned back to their houses, only after the concerned officials restored water supply to the locality.

Advocates to hold rally in support of Judge D’Costa HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 16

The South Goa Advocates Association will hold a rally from the district Court, South at 3 pm on February 18 followed by a public meeting at the historic Lohia Maidan at 4 pm on the same day to protest against the suspension of Judge Desmond D’Costa.

The Association has also petitioned the President of India, the Chief Justice of India, besides

Herald staffer bereaved HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 16

Seventy-eight year-old Inocente Braganza, father of Herald SubEditor Godfrey Braganza, passed away at his residence in Vasco on Wednesday. Braganza, a former employee of Mormugao Port Trust, was ill for some time.

The body of Inocente, who worked for 18 years in Dubai, will be laid to rest tomorrow (Thursday). The funeral cortege will leave his residence at Lucky Apartments, Opposite Maharaja Hotel, Vasco, at 4.45 pm, for the St Andrew’s Church, Vasco.

No Judge can be suspended on the basis of his judgment in a criminal trial -- be it right or wrong, correct or incorrect, with or without jurisdiction. The South Goa District judge has clearly exceeded his administrative powers by reporting it to the High Court in a biased and partisan way resulting in the suspension of Desmond D’Costa.

-- Advocates Association

the Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, to revoke forthwith the suspension of Judge Desmond D’Costa and not to accept the report of the inquiry officer appointed to conduct the inquiry against Judge Anuja Prabhudessai.

In a representation, the Association prayed if any inquiry needs to be conducted against Judge Desmond D’Costa, the same be completed within 15 days.

The Association demanded an inquiry against Judge U V Bakre for allegedly filing a report against Judge Desmond D’Costa and for the false and misleading statements made to the bar in connection to the suspension of Judge D’Costa.

“No Judge could be sus-

pended on the basis of his judgment in a criminal trial be the judgment right or wrong, correct or incorrect, with or without jurisdiction. The South Goa District judge has clearly exceeded his administrative powers in a decided matter by reporting it to the High Court in a biased and partisan way resulting in the suspension of Desmond D’ Costa,” the Association said, adding that judgment ought to have been subject of an appeal and not suspension of the judge who conducted the trial.

Perhaps the accused is having the last laugh as he has not only got away with the alleged crime but also got the trial court judge suspended, it said.

Saying that Judge Desmond

D’Costa has been serving the judiciary for the last 18 years throughout the State without fear or favour and without any fault or stigma against his character or his efficiency, the Association said that Judge Desmond D’Costa is a judge of outstanding calibre and that his suspension without disclosing any charge or reason is unjust and unfair and absurd.

The Association pointed out that though Judge Bakre had denied that his information to the High Court on the Mahanand case led to the suspension of

Judge D’Costa, the Memorandum of Charges served on Judge D’Costa is a reproduction of the report sent by Judge Bakre against Judge D’Costa. “ The judicial officers of Higher Subordinate judiciary are being pressurised and traumatised because of the suspension of Judge Prabhudessai and Judge D’Costa, which is without any rhyme or reason. Article 325 of the Constitution of India is being misused to victimise and demoralise honest, upright and knowledgeable judicial officers,” the Association added.

the 10-meter approach road is not in place leading to the property till date. That explains why the construction file of the Mumbai-based real estate developer was forwarded by the TCP office, Margao to the Town Planning Board for opinion and

decision.

Going by the decision of the Town Planning Board, Rahejas will now be permitted to undertake construction of the bungalows sans the 10 meter road, which is now required to be put in place at the time of getting

occupancy certificate.

Incidentally, the latest decision by the Town Planning Board comes against the backdrop of the delay by the PWD to acquire land for the expansion of the existing road leading to Raheja property in Carmona.

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S H O RT TA K E S

Mauvin reiterates opposition to ‘dynasty politics’ HERALD REPORTER VASCO, FEB 16

Giants Group members along with the students and teachers of Government Primary School, St Barbara, Chimbel.

Giants Group adopts 4 students

PANJIM (HND): Giants Group of Panaji recently visited Government Primary School at St Barbara, Chimbel, to celebrate 62nd Republic Day. Headmistress of the school Savita Sirsat welcomed the guests and highlighted the importance of Republic Day to students. Giant Group adopted four students to facilitate their education.

Sweets, cold drinks and gifts were distributed to the students by group. President of the group Rohidas Vaingankar also spoke on the occasion.

Sandip Nadkarni, Rajendra Kamat, Rajesh Tarcar, Sanjay Gaonkar, Shailesh Phaldesai, Raju Chodankar, Srirang Naik and other group members were also present. Mahadev Adconkar represented the PTA says a press release issued here.

Panjim carnival committee formed

PANJIM (HND):The Panjim Carnival Committee 2011 has been elected to screen the floats in the Capital City.

The committee comprises Messias Tavares, Richard Gomes, John Dias, John Aguiar, Aaron S Teles and Cezar D’Mello As usual there will be five categories of floats – Traditional, Club/Institution, Fun Junk car, Family and Clown/Joker. Participations are invited for the sixth category (Sponsored) but no prizes will be awarded to this category, as in the past. In all, 13 prizes will be awarded in each category.

Traditional category (1st prize Rs 40,000 and last prize Rs 5000), Club/Institution category (1st prize Rs 30000 and last prize Rs 3000), Fun Junk car category (1st prize Rs 10000 and last prize Rs 1000) and Clown/Joker category (1st prize Rs 5000 and last prize Rs 500).

DIET prospectus

PANJIM (HND):The prospectus for admission to two year diploma course in education will be available in the Office of the Principal, District Institute of Education and Training (DIET) from February 28 to March 18.

The last date for the submission of the duly completed application form is March 31.

Reiterating his opposition to “dynasty politics”, Deputy Speaker and Cortalim MLA Mauvin Godinho has, however, stated that there is nothing wrong to be “politically ambitious”.

He was addressing a large gathering organised to greet Sancoale Acting Sarpanch Ramakant Borkar on his birthday on Monday.

The Cortalim Citizen Felicitation Committee, which was formed to felicitate Borkar, managed to draw large number of well-wishers at the Football Grounds near Kala Bhavan, Upasnagar-Sancoale recently.

The public birthday celebration was a display of Borkar’s strength to his political bosses to stake claim for the Congress ticket from Cortalim constituency, if Godinho shifts to the newly formed Dabolim constituency.

“Everyone should be ambitious. As I had said that I will not support dynasty politics, I will stand by my word. Since Cortalim has been divided into two constituencies, I will contest from any one of the constituencies, where High Command asks me to contest. One seat will be given to my party worker as promised by me,” said Godinho.

Bicholim Urban Co-operative Bank Employees Association (BUCBEA) has decided to launch an agitation by observing ‘Dem a n d s We e k ’ i n a l l b a n k branches in case the management fails to consider its pending charter of demands and grant of an additional increment.

The decision at held recently meeting at Institute Piedade Hall, Panjim, According to a press release issued here, the management

Santa Cruz gram sabha

Fr Martin Dourado felicitates Sancoale Acting Sarpanch Ramakant Borkar on his birthday in the presence of Cortalim MLA Mauvin Godinho.

Godinho warned that few of his ambitious works are being misguided by external elements to dislodged unity of Congress workers in Cortalim.

Without taking the name of aspirants eyeing for Cortalim or Dabolim seat for the ensuing assembly election, Godinho said he is there to guide them and asked them to not to get carried away with false assurance from non-Congressmen.

“There are certain norms and procedures of the party to select the candidates, which no one

of the bank had granted one additional increment and revision in wages and service conditions to all officers.

However, as far as clerical and sub staff employees are concerned, the bank cited lack of funds to settle demands of BUCBEA. Union of employees is protesting discriminatory treatment and has decided to go on agitation as no other alternative is available to them as the management has refused to sit with the union for discussions.

Star Gazing

Astronomy and the Great Pyramid

Bizarre theories about the Great Pyramid of Khufu (or Cheops), its construction and supposed metaphysical properties have multiplied over the centuries. But in fact, there are, and long have been, serious scientists applying careful methods to the study of ancient pyramids.

The Great Pyramid

In the Great Pyramid, there is a tunnel - called Ascending Passage, which led off of the Descending Passage and headed up to what is called the King's Chamber. An offshoot of the Ascending Passage led to the Queen's Chamber, so called for its gabled ceiling.

Early astronomers were intrigued by the extraordinary straightness of the Descending Passage and took care to measure carefully its angle of descent, noting that a person within the passage looking out through the surface opening would see a patch of

sky close to the celestial north pole.

However, Polaris, the current pole star, would not have been visible to the builders because precession (the slow wobble of the earth's axis of spin) would have placed the pole much farther from Polaris than it is now. A possible (though not very likely) pole star for people of that era is the magnitude 3.7 star Thuban (Alpha Draconis), which would have been visible in the opening at lower culmination (the time of its lowest point in the sky) around the years 2123 and 3440 B.C. It was then suggested that the Pyramid might have been built near either of those dates.

That an astronomical method was used to orient the pyramids received strong, if unexpected, support in the 1980s when historians discovered that among most of the Giza pyramids, the departure of a pyramid's eastern edge from a true north–south line correlated strongly with the accession date of the king for whom each was constructed. Which is to say that the direction of north as determined by the Egyptian method varied systematically as the centuries went by. The ready explanation for this is once again precession of the equinoxes: The early Egyptians must have applied some method of using the stars to find the north celestial pole without realizing that the pole is not fixed, but rather drifts slowly through the heavens.

In November 2000, Kate Spence,

Konkani seminar at Rachol

MARGAO (HR): Rachol Seminary’s annual Konkani Seminar ‘Achem Daiz -6’ will be held on Thursday on the theme ‘Raiturchi Siminar: Konknnichem Ball Pallnnem’ (Rachol Seminary: The Cradle of Konkani), in commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the seminary.

Dr Nelson Falcao of Nashik, an expert on Fr Thomas Stephens, will deliver the keynote address. Prof Suresh Amonkar will be the chief guest. Students of the seminary will read four papers on founders of the Konkani school of Rachol. Dr Madhavi Sardessai of Goa University will moderate the presentation.

In the evening, school children from villages around the seminary will participate in a Konkani ‘desh bhakti gitam’ competition. The seminarians will also present a one act play in Konkani. Vice President of the Goa Konkani Academy Vincent Quadros will be the chief guest for the valedictory function.

PANJIM (HND): The Village Panchayat of Santa Cruz will hold ordinary gram sabha on February 27 at Santa Cruz Church Hall at 10 am.

Information on various developmental works undertaken by the panchayat since last gram sabha meeting will be presented, and proposals received from the members of gram sabha will be discussed.

BUCBEA to launch stir HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 16

UPCOMING EVENTS

can bypass, including myself.

But certainly being MLA of twin constituencies after delimitation, I will have my say to select the candidate for assembly election,” he said.

Appreciating the bold decision of Godinho to oppose dynasty politics, Congress General Secretary Vishnu Wagh said considering the present scenario, it appears that only four families from Salcete, Marcaim, Taleigao and Sattari will be going to rule the State as every one is in the race to project either their

daughter, son, wife or brother, which is not a good sign for an active democracy.

Borkar thanked his supporters for showing overwhelming response and said he is not misguided by anyone. He said he his solidly behind Godinho and requested him to continue his guidance.

Earlier, Fr Martin Dourado felicitated Borkar for active politics since his youth days, as he was the youngest sarpanch of Sancoale at the age of 22 years.

Konknni literary, cultural convention on Feb 19, 20 HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 16

Dalgado Konknni Akademi (DKA) will hold its Third Konknni (Roman script) Literary and Cultural Convention at Kala Academy, Panjim on February 19 and 20.

On the inaugural day, there will be a cultural programme by budding tiatr artists directed by Roseferns at 4.15pm, followed by the formal ceremony at 5 pm.

A welcome song by V incy Quadros will be presented by Agassaim Junior Choir under the baton of Fr Neri Mendes, sfx.

Followed by ‘Tujea Moga Pasot’

by Roseferns and his troupe at 6.30 pm.

On the second day at 10 am, delegates will deliberate on the main theme ‘Dispottea Jivitant Konknni in the Black Box (Pri Mathew Almeida Machi). Ashok Chodankar, editor of ‘Konkonn’ magazine will present the paper on ‘Avoy Bhaxechem Vhoddponn’ while Wilfred Goes will present paper on ‘Ghora-ghoramni Konknni’.

From 12 noon to 1 pm, DKA will hold a Poets’ Meet wherein poets from Mumbai, Mangalore

and Goa will participate.

At the second session between 2.30 pm and 4.30 pm, Fr Ave Maria Afonso, editor of trimonthly ‘Gõychem Noketr’ will speak on ‘Boroup Vistarachem Sadon’ and Daniel F de Souza, essayist and columnist will present paper on ‘Vachpantlean Bhaxecho Vistar’. A book exhibition will be organised wherein DKA will display around 200 titles for sale. Another exhibition of rare and old Konknni newspapers and periodicals collected over the years by noted Konknni writer Brazinho Soares will also be held.

Benicio Vitorino Pereira, C M Estibeiro and Bro Eusebio Miranda, sfx will be honoured for their contribution towards Konknni culture and journalism respectively.

At the concluding session in the open auditorium at 5pm, PWD Minister Churchill Alemao, will be the chief guest, while Principal of St Xavier’s College, Mapusa, Fr Walter de Sa, will be the guest of honour.

The convention will end with a musical show by Lawr y Travasso and his troupe.

Madkaikar kicks off road, drainage works in Divar HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 16

an Egyptologist at the University of Cambridge, suggested a method by which the pyramid builders determined what they thought was north.

She also showed that the resulting orientation errors varied as a function of time—just as predicted by precession. Moreover, by fitting the time–linked precession errors to the slight deviations of each pyramid, she revised their building dates. Instead of 2554 B.C., her data suggest the Great Pyramid was constructed between 2485 and 2475 B.C. As it stands, there is a great deal of controversy about whether the Pyramids were constructed with ancient astronomical intent or not.

Ascending Passage

Cumbarjua ML A Pandurang Madkaikar kicked off drainage and improvement of road works in the jurisdiction of Sao Mathias Village Panchayat in Divar, recently.

Mr Madkaikar gave the go ahead in the presence of Cumbarjua Zilla member Daku Madkaikar, Sao Mathias VP Deputy Sarpanch Tulsidas Kundaikar, members Prashant Harvalkar, Ramdas Bhomkar, Manuel Furtado, Asha Pai, Ludovina Ataide, Goltim-Navelim Sarpanch Mario Pinto, Jerry D’Souza and villagers.

The tender works estimated to be around Rs 40 lakh will cover areas of Amboi, Goddar, areas near Vaxim ferry, near Malar and Narao churches.

“Initially drainage works will be carried out, followed by the improvement of road works,” informed panch Jerry D’Souza.

Further, D’Souza informed that besides the road and drainage works, Mr Madkaikar has almost fulfilled his promises on development of the island such as building football ground, providing permanent 108 Ambulance service, community hall, of which construction is underway, and many more.

“MLA has reached almost to every ‘aam admi’ in the village by helping in providing government schemes, without differentiating anyone, forming mahila mandal groups and helping them in getting financial assistance to create self-employment and being accessible to each and everyone,” he added.

Panch Jerry D’Souza welcomed the Goa government’s decision of appointing MLA Madkaikar as chairman of SC\ST Commission, with cabinet status, which he really deserves.

POWER SHUTDOWN FEBRUARY 17

TALEIGAO: Between 9.30 am to 2.30 pm. Areas affected are Taleigao, Vodlem Bhat, Shankarwadi, Cardozo Wado, Sailem Bhat, Amaral Wado, St Paul, Taleigao market and surrounding areas.

FEBRUARY 18

TALEIGAO: From 9.30 am to 2.30 pm. Areas affected are Machado cove, Manipal Hospital, Vainguinim valley and surrounding Dona Paula areas.

PANJIM: From 9 am to 5 pm. Areas affected are Gomantak Bhavan, Salgaokar building, Radha Krishna Building, Saawni building, Sanjeevani building, Janaki building, Vihar building, Madhuban building, St Inez Church, St Inez bandh and surrounding areas.

PANJIM: From 9 am to 5 pm. Areas affected are City Centre, Cedmar Apts, Govinda Building, Skylark Apts, Indiraprastha Building, Durga Chambers and surrounding areas.

PILERNE: From 9 am to 1 pm. Areas affected are Pilerne Industrial Estate, Saipem and surrounding areas.

Sr Citizens Forum annual day

CANACONA (HC): Senior Citizens Forum of India, Canacona branch, will organise its annual day celebrations at Lions Club House at Xeler-Canacona on February 20 at 10 am.

According to Canacona level committee president Dr Suresh Nagorcenkar, Canacona MLA Vijay Poi Khot will be the chief guest and Canacona Municipal Council (CMC) Chairperson Ratnakar Dhuri will be the guest of honour.

Canacona level committee secretary Datta Moni has requested all the members to attend the function along with their respective family and friends (senior citizens) as central committee members will speak and guide in different fields, besides helping senior citizens to make future action plan.

Talk on special status

CURCHOREM (HC): The Movement for Demanding Special Status for Goa will organise a talk on the issue and interactive session at Sarvodaya High School Hall, Curchorem, on February 19 at 4.30 pm.

The speakers will include Convenor of the Movement and former minister Matanhy Saldanha, historian Prajal Sakhardande and social activist Kisan Gaonkar. Chartered accountant Pradip Kakodkar will preside over the function. For details, contact Mortin Menin Fernandes on 9923515337.

Cultural melava at Mollem

COLLEM (HC): Mollem Youth Sports Club will organise its annual cultural melava at Mollem Panchayat ground from February 25 to 27.

Various contests and programme will be organised on the occasion. The inaugural programme of the melava will take place on February 25 at 7 pm. Later, Shri Gurukala Sangam Association Pisgal-Priol will present various folk dances.

On February 26, solo dance contest will be organised at 7 pm. The contest will be held in two categories, senior group (participants above 12 years) and junior group (participants below 12 years). Organisers have requested the participants to produce proof of age certificate during the registration of their names. On February 27, a free medical camp will be held at Mollem Panchayat Hall at 8 am. Thereafter at 8 pm, a Konkani drama ‘Akawar Company’ produced by Kala Chetana Volvoi will be staged.For details, contact on 9403074038 or 9430768971.

VLCC ‘ Fitness Day’

PANJIM (HND): VLCC, the leading Brand in slimming and beauty will celebrate ‘ Fitness Day’ at Panjim Centre on February 21 and Margao Centre on February 22. Ms Priya Kotian, Slimming Expert from VLCC Corporate will be available on these days for one to one advice and consultation. Appointments could be made in advance.

Lecture at ICG

PANJIM (HND): Prof Clemens Herbert Jurgenmeyer (Germany) will speak on ‘Political System of Germany and India: A Comparison’ at The International Centre Goa on February 24 from 6 pm onwards.

This will be followed by interactive session and cocktail and dinner. The programme is organised by The International Centre Goa and Friedrich Ebert Stiftung – India, in collaboration with the Goa University and Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Goa. Prof Clemens Herbert Jurgenineyer is a faculty of the Institute of European Studies, Freiburg (Germany)/Chicago. The programme is open for all. For prior registration contact Arjun Halarnkar, Programme Manager, ICG (9765404391, 2452805-10, prog@incentgoa.com).

Workshop on tourism effects

PANJIM (HND): Asha Human Rights Association (AFRRA) will conduct a workshop on ‘Effects of Promoting Obscenity & Sexuality for Tourism’, on February 26 at Institute Piedade Hall II, next to SBI, D B Marg, Panjim, from 3.30 pm to 6 pm. Registration is free. A report on the interactive workshop will be forwarded to the Government of Goa with the views of the people. For details call 2256445 or 9822166876.

Seminar on media

PANJIM (HNB): The School of Media Studies of St Xavier’s College, Mapusa, will organise a one-day regional seminar in the college seminar hall on February 19.

The topic for the seminar is ‘The Changing Face of Media: Growth and Opportunities’. The seminar will analyze how print media has evolved from being a purely journalistic endeavour to a growing commercial entity, also raising questions whether news is just another commodity. It will also analyze how new media empowers the public sphere and throwing light on community empowerment through “alternative” media.

The later sessions will look media in Goa and how Goan media grown post-liberation has evolved, looking at new avenues of media enterprise like filmmaking, event management and public relations with future prospects of the media industry in Goa. The chief guest for the seminar will be Chairman and Managing Director of Geno Foundation Dilip Salgaoncar and the key note speaker will be station head of Radio Mirchi Ethel D’Costa. The speakers are Norwegian journalist Oystien Krogsrud, Israeli journalist Aimee Ginsburg, correspondent for The Hindu Prakash Kamat, Lokmat editor Raju Nayak, Sigmund D’Souza and photographer Prasad Pankar will also speak on careers. For details, contact lecturers Vailarose Fernandes on 9960076022 or Amita Fjeld on 9823143458.

Restricted water supply HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 16

Water supply to Aldona, Quitla, Pomburpa, Ecoxim, Salvador-doMundo, Nachinola, Penha-de-Franca and surrounding areas will be restricted on February 18 and 19 due to repairs of 400 mm HDPE pipeline at Quitla River crossing. Inconvenience to consumers is regretted.

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Govt trying to break ST community, feels UTAA HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, FEB 16

Is the government trying to divide the ST community with an aim to deny constitutional benefits to the community in the State?

Leaders of United Tribal Association Alliance (UTAA) and Gomantak Gaud Samaj certainly seem to think so.

Leaders feel that the State government’s attempts to break the community by bringing divisions within the rank and file has so far made it possible for the government to play aloof to various legitimate demands envisaged in the constitution.

In fact, the leaders while speaking at first of series of planned public awareness meetings at Gaondongrim on Sunday brought to fore several leaders highlighting instances of government playing dual polices and trying to divide the community.

United Tribal Association Alliance (UTAA) Secretary Uday Gaonkar reportedly narrated how once Chief Minister Digambar Kamat called two different groups from the community to meet him at his official residence at Altinho and even succeeded in keeping the presence of each group hidden from each other.

“Later, we learnt that the UTAA group which we were members were dealt by the chief minister separately, while another group from our own community was heard and addressed by chief minister at almost simultaneous timings and at the same place,” Gaonkar told the audience at Gaondongrim.

UTAA’s co-convenor Govind Gawade, in his speech mentioned, how the government is trying to create cracks within the community by financing one and same tribal functions on different platforms.

He raked-up Lokosthav -2011 and

n UTAA Secretary Uday Gaonkar reportedly narrated how once Chief Minister Digambar Kamat called two different groups from the community to meet him at his official residence at Altinho and even succeeded in keeping the presence of each group hidden from each other.

Gramosthav-2011 held at Canacona on two different dates, but owing allegiance of the same ST community.

“Our own community men are being instigated against us,” said Gawade.

Incidentally, Lokosthav-2011 was organised at Amone-Poinguinim with active participation of Poinguinim MLA Ramesh Tawadkar with the base attention on Gaondongrim and Cotigao ST dominant villages having over 10,000 participants, while Cotigao Sarpanch Rajesh Gaonkar headed Gramosthav-2011 at Karvem-Gaondongrim which almost had equal participants if not more than the Lokosthav event.

Kamat and few ministers attended both the events organised on different dates, which were incidentally partly funded by Department of Arts and Cultural, Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs and Sports Authority of Goa. “The chief minister was also responsible to thwart our intended December 19, 2010 agitation by giving false promise of solving most of the 12-point demands within 15

days,” shouted most of the leaders at the meeting.

“This government is also responsible for the massive backlog of 1,762 vacancies in government departments and State-owned other agencies of the State and has even made attempts to fill these vacancies by denotifying the ST reserved jobs,” they claimed.

Government has also diverted funds meant for ST as according to UTAA Convenor Ramesh Tawadkar, “From where the funds have come for 108 Ambulance (EMRI) services and the Bal-Rath bus services.”

“Is it not by taking undue umbrage and misusing 12% budgetary central funds to the State? Bal Rath buses are provided to schools with just 10% ST enrolments, while keeping 100% ST enrolment government schools without a Bal-Rath bus service,” charged Tawadkar.

“This is the ploy of the anti-community minister heading the social Welfare Ministry to deny 12% budgetary benefits to the community,” alleged Tawadkar.

“Our own legitimate fund is used within our own community to divide us and set us against our own brethren,” cried some other leaders.

Former MLA Babuso Gaonkar on behalf of Gomantak Gaud Samaj had submitted 25-point demands to the chief minister during Gramosthav-2011. The former MLA went on to mention that UTAA who submitted a 12-point demand to the government, “does not knows the pulse of the people.”

When contacted, UTAA leaders said specific demands made by Gaonkar in his 25 points are “unrealistic and untenable”.

UTAA President Prakash Velip told the gathering “government can only delay the 12-point demands but cannot deny the same to the ST Community.”

Gawas assures backing to Padosem plant workers

Calconda locals want toilet repaired HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, JAN 16

Faced with hardships of sanitation, residents of Calconda-Margao have demanded immediate renovation and repair of the Sulabh toilet in the locality.

The residents, most women, pointed out that the municipal authorities should ensure early renovation of the Sulabh toilet and alleviate the hardships.

Margao Municipal Chairperson Sushila Naik and officials of Sulabh International inspected the toilet block as women from the locality demanded proper sanitation for the residents.

The MMC Chairperson later told newsmen that she has directed Sulabh officials to complete the repair work within three months. She said the Sulabh officials are aware of the problems faced by the residents and expressed confidence that the toilet would be repaired at the earliest.

Agitating workers at Padosem Water treatment plant at Sanquelim.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT BICHOLIM, FEB 16

Pale MLA Pratap Gawas has assured his support to the agitating workers of Padosem Water treatment plant at Sanquelim.

MLA Gawas visited the workers and expressed support and tried to resolve the issue. The MLA along with some workers went to the PWD minister, who assured the MLA of solving the issue.

“The MLA had taken us to the PWD minister, but we were not allowed to enter the cabin and after discussion, the MLA promised us that we will get our rights within two days, but the PWD minister is yet to fulfill his promise,” Vidhyarth Narvekar told Herald.

It may be recalled that about 35 contract

Photo by Samir Umarye

workers from Padosem water treatment plant went on an indefinite strike from February 12.

The workers which include helpers, operators and chemist from the Padosem water treatment plant at Sanquelim are demanding that their Provident Fund be implemented by the government.

“We are agitating for our rights since the last six days as we are not given PF benefit. Also the salary that is given to us is not as per the rules. It is injustice and we are undergoing this since the last several years,” said Narvekar.

“At present, a helper is paid Rs 3,900, operator (4,700), while a chemist gets Rs 7,000. As per the rule, we are entitled to get our full salary but we are given approximately 50% of the proposed salary of a contract worker,” said Narvekar.

Parrikar says will look into matter HERALD CORRESPONDENT MAYEM, FEB 16

Opposition Leader Manohar Parrikar on Wednesday assured the protesting workers of Padosem water plant to look into their matter.

A delegation of workers met Parrikar and brought to his notice the problems faced by them due to non-payment of wages

since the last four months, besides expressing surprise over lackadaisical attitude of the government in regularizing them.

After listening to their grievances, Parrikar assured to look into the matter, thereby holding discussions with the concerned authorities to find out an amicable solution.

The delegation also met Bi-

cholim Labour Inspector Rajendra Kambli and brought to his notice their problems.

Kambli assured to look into the matter stating that the department will take initiative to solve the problems and that he will also be visiting workers who are staging ‘dharnas’ at Padoshem to clarify about the situation.

PMC to shift weekly bazaar HERALD CORRESPONDENT PERNEM, FEB 16

Pernem Municipal Council (PMC) resolved to shift the weekly bazaar from the main road to internal road near the proposed bus stand from February 17.

The resolution was passed by 5-4 votes during a special meeting at PMC Hall. The meeting was attended by Pernem MLA Dayanand Sopte, Pernem Mamlatdar Bhushan Sawaikar, all the

nine councilors and Pernem Deputy Collector Rajendra Mirajkar.

PMC Chairperson Dr Vasudev Deshprabhu said the shifting of the weekly market will solve the traffic congestion problem in the town.

Opposition councilors opposed the resolution stating that it would create losses to the local businessmen and vendors.

MLA Sopte also supported shifting of the local weekly mar-

ket from the main road to internal road, as it creates transport problem.

The resolution was finally passed with Councilors Vishnu Salgaonkar, Upendra Deshprabhu, Nutan Aroskar and Madhav Desai opposing the resolution, while Pallavi Kambli, Smita Kavtankar, Gajanan Sawal Desai, Vishram Gadekar and Dr Vasudev Deshprabhu supported the resolution.

Calangute sarpanch hits out at Sena over Bandodkar statue HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, FEB 16

Calangute Sarpanch Alex Fernandes has hit out at the Shiv Sena for stating that the Calangute Panchayat has neglected the statue of Goa’s first Chief Minister late Dayanand Bandodkar at Calangute.

In its memorandum, Shiv Sena has stated that preparations are underway to celebrate the birth centenary of Goa’s first Chief Minister late Dayanand Bandodkar.

“The Bandodkar statue wears a dirty look, granite broken to pieces, railings too have been missing. Therefore, we call upon Calangute Panchayat to repair it,” stated the Shiv Sena.

When contacted, Calangute Sarpanch Alex Fernandes said: “Though the Welfare Trust of Bandodkar had installed the statue at Calangute, the State government and the tourism department failed to maintain it.”

“The Tourism Department in particular failed to beautify the area surrounding and maintain the statute. On the contrary, the panchayat has done its illumination, side railings too were installed but the good work was undone through an accident, which damaged the railings,” alleged Fernandes.

“Calangute Police too is aware of the accident and has failed to act in the matter till date. The State government and tourism department should have got it done. The panchayat however took the initiative to put in place the railings, but the matter of huge expenditure came into ques-

Collem, Sanvordem residents assured of developmental works HERALD CORRESSPONDENT COLLEM, FEB 16

Industrialist and social worker Arjun Anilbab Salgaonkar assured the residents of Collem and people of Sanvordem constituency to solve their problems by undertaking developmental works in the constituency.

Salgaonkar was speaking as the chief guest during the 19th anniversary day celebration function of Dudhsagar Kala Kendra Collem, which was recently organised in the premises of Ganesh Temple, Collem.

On the occasion, an all Goa solo dance contest was organised.

Dharbandora ZP member Rashmi Lambor was the guest of honour. Collem Deputy Sarpanch Nutan Kolvekar, Mollem Sarpanch Janu Suzare, ex-ZP member Govind Sawant, Ashwini Jambavalikar and Sarvanand Dessai were the special invitees for the programme.

GARBAGE TREATMENT PLANT

Sayyad Nagar locals boycott VMC meet HERALD CORRESPONDENT VALPOI, FEB 16

Residents of Ward 7 (Sayyad Nagar) in Valpoi boycotted the Valpoi Municipal Council (VMC) meeting recently in connection with the proposed garbage treatment plant in their ward.

All councillors and the VMC chief officer, who were present at the venue at Sayyad Nagar, waited for a long time and finally returned after not a single resident turned up at the meeting.

According to residents, the VMC had arranged the meeting at Sayyad Nagar to demonstrate the garbage treatment plant in their area.

But since the residents are opposed to the project, no one attended the meeting.

“We were invited to the meeting. But we do not want the project here, we felt there was no point in attending the meeting,” said a resident.

When contacted, VMC Chairperson Umesh Gulelkar con-

tion,” added the sarpanch.

In his letter, Philip D’Souza had stated that the Calangute Panchayat is the richest panchayat in the State and should undertake the work on a war footing.

But Sarpanch Fernandes asked: “But how can the panchayat siphon off public money for beautification purpose that too without the approval from the Gram Sabha members.”

“The public funds should be used for the betterment of the villagers and we are not authorised to waste public funds for beautification purpose, etc. The same Shiv Sena will tomorrow come after us for spending public money without a cause,” added Fernandes.

“Shiv Sena is hell bent on making issues out of nothing, otherwise D’Souza would have first verified with Calangute Panchayat the correct standing of the Bandodkar statue and who’s looking into its welfare,” added Fernandes.

“There is also a separate welfare trust formed to look into the maintenance and celebrate occasions relating to late Bandodkar. However, the panchayat has extended its full co-operation in maintaining the statue giving due respect to the great leader,” said Fernandes.

“Of late, a Centenary Committee has been formed to organise the birth centenary celebrations of the great leader and as the tourism department or government is carrying any beautification work of the Ban-

firmed that the VMC organised a meeting on Thursday evening at Sayyad Nagar to demonstrate the proposed garbage treatment plant.

“We organised an awareness meeting to acquaint the people with the functioning of treatment plant. We were also supposed to listen to their grievances,” said Gulelkar.

“We even had planned to assure them that we would swear in an affidavit that the plant would be closed down if it creates any nuisance to the residents. Unfortunately, no resident attended our meeting,” he said.

Gulelkar also admitted that all councillors, the chief officer and experts invited to give a demonstration waited at the site for a long time, but no residents had turned up.

To a query, Gulelkar informed that dumping of garbage has been stopped in the temporary pit dug by VMC at Sayyad Nagar, after residents had raised strong objection.

Dudhsagar Kala Kendra Chief Manish Lambor presided over the programme.

Speaking further, Salgaonkar congratulated the Kala Kendra members for conducting the programme and contests like Bhajan, Narakasur effigy and Ganesh Mandap decoration which helps to preserve State’s culture.

He also assured to construct a building for library and a building to run the Bhajani classes at Collem.

In her speech, Lambor said the work of laying pavers in the premises of Ganesh Temple has commenced and the funds for the project has provided by the ZP office and it will be completed soon and assured the residents to undertake developmental works at Collem.

Earlier, Manish Lambor welcomed the chief guest and gathering, Suresh Kolvekar compered the programme.

dodkar statue, we the Calangute panchayat members have together decided to make a con-

tribution and do the repair work or beautification, etc to the tune of Rs 3 lakh,” he said.

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O HERALD O

The new Rave Party scene

Vol No CXI No: 048 Goa, Thursday, 17 February, 2011

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Iffy plan to save IFFI

o doubt it is important to retain the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, especially after the state has invested so much in terms of resources for the festival. But it should not mean that anything and everything can be done for this. The state government’s proposal to set up a convention centre in the present parking area of the Inox multiplex complex is a prime example of a bad decision.

The Union Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry may want additional infrastructure to be ready by September 2012, but that does not mean it should be located at a place where there is already congestion. Besides a 2,000-seater film auditorium-cum-convention hall, the new complex will have a media centre for 750 journalists, a press conference hall, a lounge, a cafeteria, two or three smaller theatres and an exhibition hall for the Film Bazaar. But this will all come at the cost of parking space.

But no, the bureaucrats will say, there are two-level basement parking areas planned, for around 150 cars. Is that sufficient? The present Inox multiplex has just over 1,200 seats spread over four theatres. The Maquinez Palace has two theatres, with around 300 seats. Yet, the present parking area, which accommodates around 150 cars, is quite insufficient, especially on days of new film releases. Now, the state government plans to more than double the present capacity (counting all the new facilities) but keep parking area for only the same number of cars… Is there any logic to this?

It is not as if there are no alternatives. The old football ground next to the Kala Academy (which can’t be used for a football stadium) will provide enough space for a picturesque riverside convention centre with ample parking space. So will the area at the rear of the parade ground at Campal, presently used for dumping and sorting the capital’s nonbiodegradable garbage. Both are also within easy reach of the other IFFI venues.

In a city where parking is just not available – even twowheelers don’t get space – and the Corporation of the City of Panjim (CCP), the North Goa Planning and Development Authority (NGPDA) and the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department continue to allow commercial and residential buildings that have no parking area whatsoever to come up, the government must set a good, rather than bad example.

But instead of improving the statutory parking norms and ensuring that builders provide adequate parking, it is proposing to do the exact opposite.

If it must cannibalise the parking area of the multiplex complex, let the government first have the courage to restrict entry of vehicles into Panjim and set up large multi-storied parking lots on the outskirts, with a system of mini-bus shuttles on circular routes for easy commuting within the city. Let it close certain roads to vehicles and declare them pedestrian plazas. Then only will it have the moral right to set up a convention centre in a parking area.

Temple misused

The investigations into the headless body murder case show that when they make up their minds, Goa’s police are as good as the very best in the country. The uncovering of this Machiavellian plot is a result of good, solid detective work.

It is particularly shocking that deceased Sultan Bellary was allegedly tortured and beheaded in a gymnasium adjoining a temple at the Rumdamol Housing Board colony, before his body was dumped at Nessai. This kind of gross misuse of religious places needs to be curbed immediately.

No alternative?

Carmen de Miranda, Loutolim The Church in Goa always talks against corruption and preaches to the faithful to shun ill-gotten wealth, etc. The other day on his birthday, Fr Conceicao D’Silva, Parish Priest of Carambolim Church, launched a website – www.jesusmaryministry.org – which was inaugurated by none other than Churchill Alemao. Was there no other eminent Catholic in Goa who was worthy of inaugurating Fr Conceicao’s website rather than Churchill Alemao?

The new party scene packs the old spirit, but this time with more guitars and gewgaws, says fReddY dIAS

V

isit any night club or dance music party and it is quite amazing how much energy today’s young partying people possess; they dance almost non-stop and freak out at such events. A closer scrutiny will reveal the real cause. Many of them are high on drugs - narcotics and/or synthetic drugs, a necessary ingredient of the rave party scene.

The numerous dance music events which are regularly held at various coastal areas of Goa, from Keri in Pernem to Palolem in Canacona, particularly during the Christmas-New Year festivities and the Carnival celebration, are nothing, but a modified version of the ‘80s-90s’ rave. Even the controversial ‘Sunburn’ (dubbed as Asia’s biggest electronic dance music festival) which is held in the state since 2007, is the new rave (also spelt ‘neu rave’ and ‘nu rave’. It is the Rave revival, as it brings back all the things that used to make maniac magic – with a distinctly bonkers twist.

What is a rave? According to Wikipedia, a rave is a dance event where disk jockeys and other performers play electronic dance music. The slang expression ‘rave’ was originally used by people of Caribbean descent in London during the 60s to describe a party. Mainstream Haves, sometimes called ‘radical audio visual experience’, began in the late 60s as a product of reaction to and rebellion against trends in popular music, night club culture and commercial radio.

Raves, which has always been associated with electronic music, electric style and esoteric highinducing substances, had been criticised as hippie culture, even in relatively permissive western societies like the USA and UK, and the law enforcement agencies have broken up such events. The availability of drugs - narcotics like cocaine, heroin, brown sugar, etc, had caused raves to be targeted and criticised by law enforcement officials and parents’ groups worldwide. But now, the psychedelia is suddenly pulling back the party-hearty punks. Whether it is London, New York or Manila, the new rave culture - with a spirit of inventiveness - has made a grand comeback. Its presence is being felt in India too, and particularly in Goa. People who have participated in dance music parties in the last few years, say that the new rave movement is very hot. It is hitting everyone.

The music is very electro and gangsta style. It’s

Sound of SIlence about listening to weird underground music or trance music. It’s also about freak dressing. The clothes are excessively bright and showy. The costumes are bizarre. Think weird. Think unpredictable. It’s the new eccentric fashion. New ravers are thriving on humour, absurdity and creativity, they say. In Goa, we can see that the mood is fast catching on in music and clothes.

Analysts are of the opinion that the new rave isn’t much more than the old one, it is completely revitalised and reinvented. It’s about adding today’s sensibilities to music and fashion statements that characterised the old rave. The essential idea is to tap back into the old spirit, all gurgling keyboards, drugs and secret parties, only this time with more guitars and gewgaws.

And while the classic ‘80s-90s’ rave attracted tens of thousands of people to a venue that would often remain secret up until a few hours before the event, today’s rave can often be more about quality than quantity. Today, a rave can be as small as 25 people or larger than 25,000. This new rave has a different influence as disk jockeys and rock artists are experimenting with newer genres. The new rave is a mish-mash of everything hip, cool and happening in music.

S

ometimes, my mind is so busy reading the inner working of my musings that the external voices which seek my attention are put on hold. After a few minutes, they register, but often too late. You see I love sound of rare words. When I hear something, my mind immediately begins to work on all the possibilities contained in the sound. What you are saying in the meantime has to wait.

You will not find the word ‘glooping’ in the dictionary, because I believe I invented it. It’s not something you or I very often do, but young people, especially adolescent boys, seem to do an awful lot of it, as in: “stop glooping around, boy, and earn your keep”.

Roughly translated this means something like, “Get up off your fat backside, you lazy layabout, and help your father.” A glooper uses grunts and groans as best he can. Thus “Aww, Mmm!” translates as “Do I’ve to do everything round here? Can’t you leave a chap in peace for just a few minutes?” “Mmm,” means “I’ve heard you and I’m doing my best to ignore you.”

Each family develops its own private language over the years, composed of words that mean nothing to outsiders. Does your family have a name for those nasty speed breakers that shake your car and occupants when you drive over them? There are

they cannot afford the high fees. This has encouraged new backdoor businesses to mushroom and these private schools are nothing but a profit making venture. I wish to make it very clear that I am not against Konkani, but I am all for the education of the child.

My foremost request to the Education Minister is to change the policy from the coming academic year and bring back old days of English medium primary education.

Please keep private players away and alleviate the suffering of children and their parents.

Form united Goan front

Our eyes went wide open in 1967, when Dr Jack Sequeira, the Leader of the Opposition, had to fight the then popular MGP government of Bandodkar and win the Opinion Poll. He took the able support of Purshottam Kakodkar, Uday Bhembre and others, in order to save the political, social, economical and cultural identity of Goa and avoid the merger of Goa with Maharashtra.

Likewise, with the help of our own intellectuals and able leaders from different parties, we must join hands and form a strong united Goan front, that will bring awareness among Goans of the destruction taking place on our soil, and win the next election by a thumping majority. This will save our beautiful Goa from further destruction.

R Ramamurthy, Margao Due to shortage of Re1, Rs2 and Rs5 coins/notes, the sales of chocolates have gone up tremendously. Chocolates are given to customers, if the shop-keeper does not have loose change. However, the situation at the booking office in the Railway station is different. Over here, they tell the passengers to get the change. Sometimes, the passengers will have to forgo the balance change, especially when this clashes with the departure time of a train.

The Railway authorities should obtain loose change from banks so that the public are not inconvenienced.

along both sides of the road, selling locally grown fruit and vegetables. Vehicles are seen parked alongside of the road. This is a hindrance to vehicular traffic, as accidents can occur. At night, there are no street lights on the entire stretch of the road.

Road-signs displaying permissible speed limits and speed breakers need to be put up along the road. The existing empty barrels need to be replaced by proper road dividers. Traffic-police should be posted at both ends of the by-pass, as this is a very busy road.

Suspended judge

Why cancel them, yaar?

100 Years Ago

PRIMEIRO DIARIO NAS COLONIAS PORTUGEZAS

18 February 1911 Yesterday being the Ash Wednesday our Editorial Offices were closed.

Diogo Furtado, Utorda The advocates of Margao are up in arms, because the High Court suspended the judge of the Sessions Court, Margao. The judges are judged by the judges and the advocates are also judged by the judges.

If one judge is suspended, then another one will take his place. It should not worry the advocates, except if the clients of the advocates are victimised, then the advocates should raise their voices.

Here, the advocates have no case before the High court, but the judge has.

By-pass poses threat Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco The Agassaim-Goa Velha by-pass is a virtual death-trap. Ever since the by-pass was thrown open, several stalls have come up

Marcos Alemao by email I refer to the news report “Cancel Portuguese street names” (Herald, Feb 16).

The so called freedom fighters of Goa did nothing for the liberation of Goa. Goa was liberated at the behest of late Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Our cabinet ministers pamper the freedom fighters without verifying their credentials. The streets in Goa were named after prominent Goans that were born and brought up in Goa, and not Portugal. Why should their names be removed? For example, the Lohia maidan in Margao is named after a man called Lohia, who is not a Goan. Why should the maidan be named after an outsider? I could demand that the government removes his name and rename the maidan after Dr Jack Sequeira, who saved Goa from the clutches of Maharashtra. There are

By Marc de Souza

the family ever since.

To think of it a few years ago, if someone told you that you were ‘green’, you would have taken it as an insult, as indeed it probably was. Now, however, if someone made the same remark, they are not likely to end up with a black eye! Reason? As we all know, our ‘greenness’ is measured by our care for the environment.

A beautiful thought of Iran comes leaping from my memory bank. I recollect my first trip, returning from the Caspian Sea to Tehran with friends Rock Fernandes SDB and Agnelo Lacerda of the Portuguese Embassy. It was just growing dark as we were bouncing down. The skyline loomed up in the twilight. It was glorious, with tall tree-lined road, and running water nearby. We had returned via the mountain road which runs through a certain village called Tamazchale. I didn’t know how to pronounce the name on the map until I was told that the natives had named their village after two voluntary workers, a doctor and engineer, called Thomas and Charlie, who helped them in various ways to stand on their own feet. Thomas and Charlie were both Americans, who laboured with the villagers for many years. Then I knew how to pronounce the name. Truly, to perform good deeds, there are no man made borders!

Letters to the Editor

Rocky Dias, Raia

I would appreciate if you would reinstitute the comments page in the internet edition of Herald. I thought that all comments are vetted by you or your staff and any abusive and adverse comments are not printed.

Therefore, I cannot understand your reasons for stopping the comments page.

Please reinstitute the same so that your bona fide readers are able to make appropriate comments on matters of interest. I do hope you will give the matter a just thought.

The Goa government, by introducing Konkani medium primary education has done injustice to its people. It is surprising that Konkani primary medium is imposed on us, when no such stipulation is mentioned in the Constitution on imposition of a particular language. The rich keep admitting their wards in English medium schools, but it is the poor who suffer as

loads as you get to the Vintage Hospital. Some call them camel ‘Humps’, but my family members prefer to call them ‘bumps’.

A BF Goodrich executive kept exclaiming: “Zip her up! Zip her up!” as he played with the contraption before “zippers” were named in the 20s.

Some families call the underwear a ‘bookcase’ it’s really a bra that is being discussed. I remember a family whose embarrassed youngster once warned her mother when they went shopping for her first brassier to call this item a ‘bookcase’. If anyone asked where they were going, the mother was to reply, “Out to buy a bookcase.” Apart from the sheer fun of it, a lot of the reasons why we invent and continue to use such terms, is to have secret code words known only to the club members. Terms known only to insiders encourage a sense of belonging, and sayings based on shared experience remind family members of their history.

To our son, “Peggies” mean spaghetti. “Tubby” means tell me to our No l daughter. ‘Hottie’ means hot chocolate to our No 2 daughter. Then there are ‘lalos’. Our youngest daughter craved for bananas as an infant, but could not pronounce the word. So her siblings tried teaching her to ask for ‘yellows’. The closest she could come was ‘Laloos’. And that’s what bananas have been to

Letter of the Day

Godfrey Rasquinha, Florida USA

Vicente Do Rego, Dubai

For new ravers, it is a very dance party act.

There was a time when rock was cool, then rap was hot, but now, the mood is rave. It is not like the old rave, but very electro with crazy beats and sounds. Rave is about allowing your spirit to be free. Weird music is fun. The weirder it sounds, the better it is. The new rave movement has been triggered by fusion of various types of music.

What makes the new rave different is that it is not just about crazy, weird music, but also about your fashion, your accessories, and your attitude.

The mood is very punk rock glam. Very eccentric, be it hairstyle or clothes. You have got to be flamboyant and flashy.

So, it is about putting what you see on the fashion ramps through your personal prism and coming up with something completely whacked out that showcases your psychotic psyche.

Coloured glasses, wigs and cheap gold and silver jewellery, spiced up with the season’s hottest ingredient, a crazy attitude. Being a raver is about being free from predictability.

Social activists, however, point out that part of the charm of a rave is its living-on-the-edge mood; for a generation that’s grown up on music video lewdness and play station games, that in-

volve shootouts and drug busts. This is the slice of real live action that is hard to resist. Ravers let go of all inhibitions and indulge in illegal, often life-threatening drugs. Many of them get high on drugs, a necessary ingredient of a rave scene.

In the last few years, drugs use at a rave has undergone a drastic shift. Usage of cocaine and heroin has declined globally while opium and hashish, traditional drugs in India, have given way to synthetic drugs – especially Amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) and prescription drugs.

These drugs appeal to the needs of today’s young people and have become part of modern lifestyles.

Their use is to enhance performance, which include dancing. They are often taken in a discreet pill form, which avoids the dangers of injection or the social stigma of smoking. These drugs are also easily available as they can be brought and sold over the counter, sourced via the internet, sent through the local courier or even through the regular postal services. In fact, for the first time in India’s history, drugs have come out in the open. They are visible and are also dangerous.

As new drugs find their way into urban and semi-urban setups, young people seek a dash of chemical comfort – easy to procure, cheap to buy, that allows them to navigate under the radar of social and legal scrutiny. Synthetic drugs (psychoactive substances produced in a lab) are the flavour of night-clubbing or a Rave scene. They cover a wide range, from mind-altering amphetamines, ecstasy, LSD and other designer drugs to the easily available and pocket friendly prescription and over the counter (OTC) medicines.

In fact, pharma drug abuse is on a high – drug cocktailing, mix and match of synthetic chemicals is the new flavour of rave and club parties.

Medical experts say that misuse of pharma drugs, such as painkillers, sedatives, anxiolytics, hypnotics and systhetic opiods like buprenorphine as well as polydrug use is steadily rising, which could be a public health disaster in the making.

Synthetic drugs are particularly attractive to young people, as they bring down social inhibitions and produce a sense of high energy and competence.

Indeed, the rave scene and club parties have popularised an assortment of drugs which many young people mistakenly believe are harmless.

In other words, words

Facts of life

Reinstitute comments page Loose change

Gross injustice

OPINION

many other issues other than merely removing names from the streets, pertaining to Goa, yaar.

Senseless ministers Justin Fernandes, Panjim The beauty and the charm of the villages of Agassaim and Cortalim are lost with the advent of Zuari and Konkan railway bridges.

Much is at stake when the new Zuari bridge will come into existence.

I was shocked to see the beautiful bungalows that are going to be axed to make way for the new Zuari bridge. The smile on the people’s faces is lost. They look forlorn. Our senseless CM and the PWD minister makes big noises of saving the houses.

Highways are needed, but not at the poor people’s cost. Our government has proved that it lacks proper planning in this respect.

Goa was pristine for many years, but after liberation our greedy politicians in cahoots with Delhi based ‘babus’ have turned Goa into a concrete jungle and have labeled it as development. Our illiterate politicians will do anything to fill their coffers, without giving it a second thought.

Senior citizen cards Nelson Lopes, Chinchinim Why can’t the Social Welfare department issuing senior citizen cards, not accept a certified copy of one’s passport, as a best

documented, and scrutinised proof? Why is a residential certificate from the Panchayat demanded? Also, why is a residential certificate of 15 years, needed for the card?

This document is of very little use. The bank says that it does not indicate birth date to be accepted, as a senior citizen, but the fact remains that he is indeed one.

One needs to be reminded that a telephone number helps in case of an emergency, when relatives need to be contacted. This is not incorporated in the card. Does it mean that in an emergency, the Social Welfare department is to be contacted? The person in charge, has to be responsive to real concerns, and should not take shelter under the rules in force.

CVC akin to Ceasar’s wife S Kamat, Alto Betim P J Thomas’ defence in the Supreme Court citing the issue of criminality of our MPs, should automatically disqualify him from being even considered for the post of CVC. The CVC, to coin a phrase which surprisingly, is getting popular in India in recent times, should be like Caesar’s wife, who apart from being pure, should also appear to be pure. India cannot have a CVC with medals of criminal cases being pinned on to his chest. Once the taint on the ‘palmolein’ case was cited, he should have offered his resignation. That would have been appreciated by all and sundry. Nowadays, with an ineffective PM and a whole lot of scams being unearthed, the true values of respect, admiration and ethics are completely lost in contemporary India.

Change or repent Souza Francisco, Vasco da Gama Very soon elections will take place in Goa and the forty plus aspirants will be at our door step to beg for votes. They will be accompanied by their mates.per decision.

Don’t lose heart. I have a simple and wise solution. Accept what is on offer even if it is Rs500. But when it comes to your vote, remember what God said, “Your right hand must not know what your left hand does”. So choose wisely. Change your Goan attitude of crab mentality. But first change the old faces in the coming elections.

Paths of Wisdom Brahman

By Sri Aurobindo

A central tenet of Sri Aurobindo’s philosophy is that the Truth of existence is an omnipresent Reality that both transcends the manifested universe and is inherent in it. This Reality, referred to as Brahman, is an Absolute: it is not limited by any mental conception or duality, whether personal or impersonal, existent or nonexistent, formless or manifested in form, timeless or extended in time, spaceless or extended in space.

It is simultaneously all of these but is bound by none of them. It is at once the universe, each individual being and thing in the universe, and the Transcendent beyond the universe. In its highest manifested poise, its nature may be described as Sachchidananda—infinite existence, infinite consciousness, and infinite delight or bliss; a triune principle in which the three are united in a single Reality. In other words, it is a fully conscious and blissful infinite existence. The importance of this concept for humanity lies in its implication that Brahman is the deepest and secret Reality of humans, it is their true Self, and it is possible to recover this Reality of their being by removing the veil of ignorance that hides it from them and imprisons them in a false identification with an apparently divided and limited egoistic movement on the surface of the being. This is the metaphysical basis for Sri Aurobindo’s yoga, the discipline given to consciously unite humans’ life with their essential Reality.

(Source : Wikipedia)

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OHERALDO

INDIA

opinionated Protect dignity of rape victims

By David Pradhan

N

on-consensual sexual assault or rape is perhaps one of the most heinous offences. The victims are usually, though not exclusively, women, minor children and transgenders. Rape is an offence punishable under Sections 375 and 376 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which in recognition of the devastating effects it has on the victim – psychologically, physically and socially – prescribes punishment up to life imprisonment.

But instead of abating, sexual violence is a growing trend in India today. The National Crime Records Bureau reports that incidents of rape increased 112 per cent between 1990 and 2008, while cases of molestation and sexual harassment more than tripled between 2001 and 2008. These figures may actually be an understatement. The actual numbers can safely be surmised to be much larger.

One of the main reasons for not reporting rapes is the harrowing experience that rape trials turn out to be for the victim, and the ultimately low rate of conviction. Fear of social ostracism in a conservative patriarchal society, a medical forensic procedural regime that legitimises judgmental speculations about the character of the victim, and an insensitive criminal justice system of trial that is psychologically traumatic, prevents many from seeking justice and allows rapists to walk free.

Under Indian criminal law, the prosecution can secure a conviction on a rape charge based solely on the testimony of the rape survivor, provided the testimony is cogent and consistent, inspiring confidence (State of Maharashtra vs C K Jain). But though in theory the law does not require corroboration by forensic evidence to secure a conviction – it is only legally relevant but not essential – in practise, the police and even the judiciary gives considerable weight to the forensic evidence. It has a major bearing not only on the seriousness of the investigation, but on securing a conviction.

But forensic evidence collection techniques are extremely uneven and subjective, predominant among which is the demeaning and archaic ‘PV/per hymenum digital examination’ for determining ‘laxity’ as evidence of prior sexual activity. Its reliability and relevance has been widely questioned by medical authorities and it has been denounced as unprofessional, unscientific and generating no reliable evidence as to whether the victim was raped [See Modi’s Medical Jurisprudence and Toxicology (22nd edn, New Delhi: Butterworths India, 2001), pp 478, 503; Parikh C K, Textbook of Medical Jurisprudence, Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (6th edn, New Delhi: CBS Publishers, 2005), pp 5.11, 5.37; and K S Narayan Reddy, The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (26th edn, Hyderabad: K Suguna Devi, 2007), pp 436, 438].

This forensic test has expressly been overruled as against the victim in a number of Supreme Court cases (Narayanamma vs State of Karnataka, State of Karnataka vs Muniyappa and others and State of Punjab vs Ramdev Singh) but still continues to be used to demoralise the victim. Sadly, at times, it also influences the decisions of the lower judiciary (Pint Raj vs state of HP and Tej Pal vs State of NCT).

Even after the 2006 amendment, the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) still leaves a great deal of discretionary scope for forensic examiners to record what they consider relevant as ‘other material particulars in reasonable detail’ (Sec 164ACrPC), with the result that forensic medical reports of rape victims routinely contain blatant stigmatising statements like “lack of marks of struggle”, “old hymeneal tear”, “patulous labia” and “habituated to sexual intercourse”, et al, disguised under the cloak of medico legal neutrality. In reality, this prejudices not only the investigating officer (IO) and the judge, but also perpetuates a social perception of the victim’s “loose morals” in our conservative society. They overlook that these could be the result of other very routine causes, like extreme fear and shock, which can explain “lack of marks of struggle”.

The 2003 amendment to the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 (Sec 146 c l.3) prohibits the defence from cross-examining the prosecutrix about her “general immoral character”, and the apex court has held “habituation to sexual intercourse” is an irrelevant consideration (State of Uttar Pradesh vs Pappu).

However, character assassination based on dubious forensic opinion about sexual promiscuity continues to be a favourite line of argument, and continues to be placed on case records and given wide exposure by the media, presumably to manipulate social opinion in favour of the accused and indirectly pressurise the victim.

The Rape trial is the next stage where the psycho-social torture of the victim continues in the attempts of insensitive defence counsel to question her credibility and character. Cross examinations of the victim by the defence counsel in rape trials are famous for their insensitivity and graphic nature. The psychological trauma that a victim of rape has to undergo in her quest for justice can be conjectured from the fact that many victims prefer to keep quiet rather than face the defence cross examination. It is a resounding indictment of our criminal judicial system that the odious offence is deemed more acceptable than the corrective process of justice.

Perhaps to address this, the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2010 seeks to amend the Indian Evidence Act to include a provision that in a prosecution for sexual assault, “where the question of consent is in issue, evidence of the character of the victim or of his [sic] previous sexual experience with any person shall not be relevant on the issue of such consent or the quality of consent.”

The judiciary has also taken an active stand in its role as preserver of substantive justice, and given convictions in clear cases overriding superficial technicalities and legalese, and even laid down guidelines (Ratan Acharjee vs State of Tripura and Vishram vs State of Rajasthan).

The Delhi High Court has formed a committee headed by Justice Gita Mittal to oversee the implementation of all guidelines related to sexual violence against adults and children (Delhi Commission for Women vs Delhi Police). However, changes in laws alone will not ease the path to justice for survivors of sexual violence.

Once laws and policies have been put in place, the Indian central and state governments must ensure that these laws are adequately resourced and implemented. The Ministry of Home Affairs in association with the Indian Medical Association (IMA) is developing a ‘Perspective Plan for Indian Forensics’, which seeks to scrutinise the existing procedures, suggest more scientific and uniform methods, and reconsider the ways in which forensic services are rendered.

There is also a need for holistic psychological rehabilitation services, social acceptance of rape victims, de-glamorisation of rapists by the media, sensitisation of counsel and police investigating officers, and a more humane rape trial process – preferably ‘in camera’ – with the identity of the victim kept a secret. In the meantime, the least that civil society can do is to be aware of the subjectivity of forensic opinion, and not form hasty character generalisations.

A personal opinion is that shifting of the burden of proof onto the accused can help curb the objectification of women and sexual offences against them. For too long have survivors of sexual violence in India endured criminal justice and health care systems that pay scant attention to their needs and rights. Hopefully, these anticipated developments will usher in a more sensitive and responsive system of justice, in which the victim is not persecuted but rather the perpetrator is punished.

(The author is a student of Final Year LLB, V M Salgaocar College of Law. He can be contacted at david_pradhan@lawyer.com)

GOA, THURSDAY 17 FEBRUARY, 2011

Left takes PM to task on 2G allocation PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 16

Launching a scathing attack on the government for “loot” of public money through the 2G spectrum allocation and other scams, Left parties today took Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to task for equating the loss with subsidising foodgrains to the poor.

“On two vital issues confronting the nation and the people, that is corruption and price rise, the Prime Minister has virtually thrown up his hand saying nothing much can be done. This is very unfortunate,” CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury told reporters here.

“This is something that is completely unacceptable. Subsidising the poor is one aspect but subsidising the rich and saying that it is necessary, is just naked loot of the country,” he said.

Noting that Singh had said he was ready to appear before any parliamentary panel even though the UPA was against a joint parliamentary committee probe into the 2G spectrum scam, Yechury said, “If you are ready to appear before JPC or

any committee then why did you allow the entire winter session to be washed out.”

He said Singh “virtually tried to justify” the spectrum scam by “comparing” it with the subsidies being given on foodgrains, fertiliser and kerosene oil.

Yechury was referring to remarks made by the Prime Minister during his 70-minute interaction with editors of electronic media here.

The CPI(M) leader said, "In other words he (Singh) has actually admitted to the fact that his government has been subsidising the corporate sector by giving away national assets like the spectrum at throwaway prices.”

"The fact remains that the government did not collect what was due (in 2G spectrum allocation), which was also a loss," he said, adding that the presumptive loss of Rs 1.76 lakh crore could have provided food security to every Indian for two full years.

In the same vein, CPI National Secretary D Raja said Singh had sought to "explain" the 2G scam by asking if subsidies on foodgrains could be called a loss.

"He should explain how corporate houses made such huge profits. It was virtually a loot.

The Prime Minister did not answer that question. That is totally strange and that too from a prime minister who is himself an economist,” he said.

Maintaining that the prime minister did not say "a word against corporate houses which looted money", Raja said his answer on ISRO's S-band allocation was not convincing. Besides, Singh did not properly explain the steps to check price rise.

On the opposition-UPA standoff in parliament, he said Singh blamed the opposition for disrupting the entire winter session. "What was the government's role? He says government was making honest efforts. What has he done so far?" he posed.

Yechur y also dismissed Singh's assertion that action will be taken within 90 days against people involved in Commonwealth Games scam, saying “We have heard these things many times before.”

The CPI(M) politburo member said the prime minister did know about the irregularities in

the spectrum allocation as early as in 2007 when the Left parties, which were outside supporters of the UPA-I government, had written to him pointing this out.

His party colleague Brinda Karat said, “It is absolutely shocking that the prime minister holds a press conference. The country expect him to come out absolutely clearly and strongly that what happened with 2G scam was wrong and that he regrets the wrong-doing.”

“But what did he say? On one hand, he actually defended both the policies and the procedures (of 2G spectrum allocation) and even the immediate sale of equity of two companies through huge amounts. He actually defended it saying this was just a way of raising funds from the market.”

She said when the Supreme Court and the CBI were waiting for the government to take action against the companies which got the licences illegally, "The prime minister, in fact, almost put out a defence for them.”

Singh also said there were coalition compulsions, Karat added.

Members of a family ride on a bicycle during a procession to mark Eid-e-Milad-ul-Nabi, or birthday celebrations of Prophet Mohammad, in Mumbai on Wednesday.

US assures fair solution to TVU issue PTI WASHINGTON, FEB 16

The United States has assured India of providing a “fair solution” to the “critical problem” faced by hundreds of Indian students whose academic career is at stake following the closure of a California-based “sham” university on charges of a massive visa fraud.

Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs William Burns held out the assurance during his meeting with visiting Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao here.

The Tri Valley University (TVU), which had over 1,500 students with 95 per cent of them Indians, was shut down last month after federal authorities accused it of involvement in a major immigration fraud.

Burns assured Rao that the US government would provide a “fair solution” to hundreds of Indian students whose academic career was at stake following the closure of the Tri Valley University.

“It (Tri Valley University) was a very important subject among various issues that I discussed.

Especially in my discussion with the Under Secretary Bill Burns I

took the matter up and conveyed our concern about the welfare of the students who have been affected by this unfortunate series of events involving Tri Valley University,” Rao told reporters at the end of her three-day US visit last evening. Rao took up the matter with the US officials, days after External Affairs Minister S M Krishna, in a telephonic conversation with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, raised this issue.

On Monday, Indian Ambassador to the US, Meera Shankar also conveyed to Clinton India's concerns on the issue.

“I was assured by Under Secretary Burns that this is what the US government is looking at and they want to provide a fair solution to this very rare and critical problem that many of the students face, many of the students who were enrolled in Tri Valley University face,” Rao said.

Over the next few days, the Indian embassy is going to be in touch with the State Department on this issue. “Our stress, our emphasis has been on seeking a solution that would help the students who have been af-

fected by this unfortunate development and enable them to find alternative placements in bonafide universities without affecting their future,” Rao said.

During her meeting with Burns, Rao stressed on India's concern about the large number of bonafide students who have been adversely hit by the events surrounding Tri Valley university and the uncovering of the scam concerning that university.

“Our concern was that the future of the students should not be affected and to whatever extent possible this number of students who have not really been involved in any illegal or negative activities should be accommodated in other universities, should be enable to transfer to other universities without determent or without any disadvantage,” Rao said.

Responding to questions, the foreign secretary asserted that this rare incident would not affect the "India Brand" in the US. “I do not believe that it would affect the image of Indian students coming to this country. I think there is enormous appreciation and I can sense that in our conversation with our American friends in the US govern-

Judging more difficult: Madhuri change. When you put in your mind and hard work you can achieve everything,” the actress added.

PTI MUMBAI, FEB 16

Bollywood diva Madhuri Dixit, who is enjoying her second stint on television almost after a decade with Jhalak Dikhla Jaa, is likely to appear in the fifth season of the dance reality show even though when she finds judging tougher than acting.

“I feel judging is more difficult than acting. Acting we can do easily. In judging one has to see and understand the work first and then comment. Also, one has to make them (contestants) realise their flaws and guide them to excel,” Madhuri told PTI. The 43-year-old actress, who made her television debut with Kahin Na Kahin Koi Hai', a marriage-based reality show in 2001, said, “Talks about the fifth season of Jhalak Dikhla Ja' are on.

Lets see how things work out.”

The Dhak-Dhak girl before taking up the show went to Los Angeles to see the original version of the show - Dancing With Stars. “I am happy with the In-

dian version of the show. I am enjoying it completely," Madhuri said.

On her journey in Jhalak Dikhla Jaa, Madhuri said, “As a judge I feel more comfortable now. I am enjoying this. I feel I know the contestants better. I know their strengths and weaknesses. All and all its been a wonderful experience.”

“From this journey of dance show I have learned nothing is impossible. When I see Meiyang Chang (a contestant) I remember his first performance... and his presence... there is a drastic

ment. They see the talent and the capability and the intellectual levels of our students who rank among the best anywhere in the world,” she said.

Boy killed while protecting sister BARASAT (WB): A 16-year-old boy was killed after being stabbed, kicked and punched repeatedly by a group of drunken youths, who were trying to molest his sister near the North 24 Parganas district magistrate's bungalow in this headquarters town.

Rajib Das, who was due to appear in this year's Madhyamik Examination (secondary examination), was left bleeding on the street on Monday night at a spot, 400 metres away from the DM's bungalow, by the miscreants and later taken to Barasat Hospital by passers-by, the bereaved family said.

Das was escorting his sister, who was returning from her workplace, on cycle from Barasat rail station when the incident took place.

He was later shifted to R G Kar Medical College and Hospital and succumbed to his injuries the next morning. (PTI)

APPOINTMENTS

W

OBITUARIES GOA, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2011

Pg10

MONTHS MIND IN EVERLASTING MEMORY OF

LOUISA D'SA (Miramar)

There will be a Eucharistic Celebration for the repose of the soul of our beloved Louisa on (Friday) 18th Feb 2011 at 5.00pm at St. Inez Church, followed by prayers and blessing of the grave, offered by her sorrowful husband Aurelio, son Avelino, daughter Melissa & family members.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT We the grieved family of late Louisa D'sa express our deepest gratitude to relatives, neighbours, friends, blood donors, & all those who rendered their help, attended the funeral, offered prayers, sent floral tributes, condolences messages, called on us personally & shared in our grief.

We wish to say a big “Thank you”.

We regret our inability to thank each one individually. goanrites@gmail.com 9822122003/9822136397

FIRST DEATH ANNIVERSARY

URMINDA MASCARENHAS E LIMA LEITÃO 16.1.1926 - 20.2.2010 Vasco da Gama, Goa, India The family of Urminda announces the Eucharistic Celebration for her dear departed soul on Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 4.30 p.m. at St.Andrew's Church, Vasco da Gama, followed by the blessing of the grave.

The bereaved family expresses its sincere gratitude to all for sharing in its grief.

Relatives and friends may please accept this as the only intimation

goanrites@gmail.com 9822122003/9822136397

Not aware of FCFS spectrum methods: PM PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 16

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today asserted he was not aware of the methodology of the controversial First-Come, First-Serve (FCFS) policy followed for 2G spectrum allocation by disgraced former Telecom Minister A Raja, which resulted in a huge scam estimated to be up to Rs 1.76 lakh crore.

"Who got the licences... how FCFS was implemented, this was never discussed with me nor was it brought to the Cabinet. This was exclusively Telecom Minister's decision," Singh said in an interaction with the editors from the electronic media.

He, however, said that since the Ministries of Finance and Telecom had agreed to continue with the existing policy of allocating 2G spectrum, "I did not feel that I was in a position to insist that auction must be insisted."

The government auditor CAG had estimated a presumptive loss of up to Rs 1.76 lakh crore due to sale of spectrum in 2008 at 2001 prices.

This had forced Raja to resign from the Union Cabinet in November last year and was followed by his arrest on spectrum 2G scam charges.

OHERALDO

Pg 11

WORLD

GOA, THURSDAY, 17 FEBRUARY, 2011

Pak should release Davis, adhere to convention: US PTI WASHINGTON, FEB 16

Upping the ante in a tense stand-off with Pakistan, US President Barack Obama has insisted that the jailed American diplomat Raymond Davis must be freed by Islamabad adhering to the Vienna Convention.

In the highest level intervention on the issue, Obama said, “simple principle” of diplomatic immunity meant that Pakistan must release the 37-year-old diplomat.

Obama conveyed the message to Pakistan at a news conference and his insistence on the release of the US embassy employee comes as he dispatched influential Senator John Kerry as a high-profile envoy apparently to tell Pakistan that it has much to lose if the controversy drags on.

“With respect to Mr Davis, our diplomat in Pakistan, we’ve got a very simple principle here that every country in the world that is party to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations has upheld in the past and should uphold in the future,” Obama said.

“If our diplomats are in another country, then they are not subject to that country’s local prosecution. We respect it with

respect to diplomats who are here. We expect Pakistan, that’s a signatory should recognise Mr Davis as a diplomat, to abide by the same convention,” Obama said in response to a question.

Obama, however, refrained from giving details of Administration’s specific conversation with the Pakistani Government but said he is very firm about the release of the diplomat.

Cannot be granted blanket immunity, opines Qureshi PTI ISLAMABAD, FEB 16

Pakistan's former Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi today asserted that US official Raymond Davis could not be granted "blanket immunity" as desired by the Americans, even as a report said that the two countries were close to resolving their tiff over the issue.

Qureshi, who is bitter over his replacement as the foreign minister, said he was prepared to testify, if he was called by the Lahore High Court that is hearing petitions in this case.

Five days after he skipped the swearing-in ceremony for the new cabinet after the ruling Pak-

istan People's Party decided not to reallocate him the foreign affairs portfolio, Qureshi said he had been told at a briefing in the Foreign Office on January 31 that it would not be possible to grant blanket immunity to Davis.

His comments came as the Dawn newspaper said in a report that the government's counsel is expected to testify on Davis' diplomatic status when the Lahore High Court reconvenes tomorrow.

The miffed PPP leader said this expert opinion was formulated at an inter-ministerial meeting held by the Foreign Office, the Interior Ministry and a

Egyptians continue their protests AGENCIES CAIRO, FEB 16

As Egypt's military moves forward with a plan to enact constitutional reforms, protests continued Wednesday as the country adjusts to its new governing body.

Military personnel dispersed about 200 protesters Wednesday outside a welding factory between Cairo and Alexandria, state media reported. The protesters blocked traffic for about half-an-hour, demanding better pay, better compensation for working longer hours and better treatment from management.

Meanwhile, the military has formed "an apolitical and independent constitutional committee" to propose constitutional reforms within 10 days, according to Wael Ghonim, an activist credited with spearheading the protests that toppled former President Hosni Mubarak's regime of almost 30 years.

State-run television said a retired judge, Tarek Beshri, will head the panel. It also reported that Mohammed Tantawi, head of the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, met Tuesday with the panel to make sure plans are on target for the reforms.

After that plan is forged, a referendum will be held on the measures within two months, Ghonim said in a statement on the social media website Facebook.

Ghonim learned about the constitutional referendum timetable on Monday during a meeting with members of the Egyptian military -- which assumed power last week when the nation's longtime president stepped down after 18 days of tenacious anti-government demonstrations. Protesters took to the streets armed with complaints over lack of economic opportunity, poverty and corruption as well as demands for Mubarak's immediate resignation.

Ghonim and seven other leaders of the youth uprising sat down with two representatives of the Supreme Council of Armed Forces. He said said the military officials noted that they don't want to rule the country and believe that developing a

civilian government is the only option for moving Egypt forward.

“third institution” that he did not identify.

He said he concurred with this opinion and conveyed it to the core committee of the PPP during a meeting held the same day.

“I examined the documents placed before me and in my considered opinion, I agreed with the Foreign Office's stand,” he told a news conference.

He said Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani agreed with his stance and informed parliament on February 3 that the issue of Davis is sub-judice and will be decided by a court of law.

Qureshi made it clear that he stood by his position on the issue of Davis, who was arrested after he gunned down two men in Lahore on January 27.

The Pakistani leadership's rejection of repeated US demands to free Davis on the ground that he has diplomatic immunity has taken relations between the two countries to a new low.

Pg 12 TALK BUSINESS

Glenmark’s Rev up by 17 %

PANJIM (HBD) -- Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited (GPL) announced its third quarter results for the period ending December 31, 2010. For the third Quarter of FY’2011, Glenmark’s consolidated revenue was at Rs 750.82 crore as against Rs 641.69 crore, an increase of 17%.

Revenue from the generics business was at Rs 298.76 crore, as against Rs 280.44 crore, a growth of 7%.

The speciality formulation business revenue was at Rs 452.06 crore as against Rs 361.24 crore for the corresponding quarter of the previous year, registering a growth of 25%.

The consolidated net profit for the third quarter was Rs 109.56 crore as compared to Rs 94.07 crore for the previous corresponding quarter, an increase of 16.5%. During the last corresponding quarter i.e. Q3 FY’2010 Glenmark received licensing income of Rs 23.2 crore. Adjusting for this number, Net Profit would be higher than stated.

For the nine month ended Dec 31, 2010, Glenmark’s consolidated revenue was at Rs 2156.94 crore as against Rs 1775.69 crore, an increase of 21%. Revenue from the generics business was at Rs 890 crore, as against Rs 776.73 crore, a growth of 15%.

The Speciality formulation business revenue was at Rs 1266.93 crore as against Rs 998.97 crore for the corresponding nine months of the previous year, registering a growth of 27%. The consolidated net profit for the nine month period was Rs 376.73 crore as compared to Rs 228.41 crore, an increase of 64.93%.

TBZ jewellery expo

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Biz12_Pg12 2/16/2011 9:42 PM Page 1

FTA: Imports from Japan to become cheaper PTI TOKYO, FEB 16

India signed its "most ambitious" free trade agreement with Japan, with the two major Asian economies committing to eliminate import duties on 94% of their trade in 10 years.

The FTA is expected to come into force from April this year.

Import of consumer goods like electronics – indicator panels of LCDs and LEDs, mobile phones including SIM and memory cards, calculators, electrical - battery chargers, compact discs and DVDs, from Japan to India will become duty free as soon as the agreement is implemented.

Textiles like woven and silk fabrics will also become part of duty free items.

The pact, the third major by India within a year, will provide access to Indian professionals like accountants, researchers, yoga and english teachers and management consultants to

PTI MUMBAI, FEB 16

PANJIM (HBD) -- Tribhovandas Bhimji Zaveri & Sons, Mumbai inaugurated their exhibition at Maragao in the presence of chairman of TBZ and Sons Pratap Zaveri, director Chaitanya Zaveri and manager Rohit Kapida TBZ & Sons.

The two day exhibition at Hotel Nanutel will be open to public from between 10 am to 8 pm. The exhibition has showcased in Goa, handcrafted and designer jewellery.

Their range of jewellery specially crafted for this festive season is skillfully juxtaposed with various precious stones like diamonds, rubies, emerald and pearls.

Available at the exhibition are necklaces, pendants, bracelets, rings and bangles in solid gold or studded with diamonds.

Taj Exotica, Vivanta By Taj bag awards

Japanese market hit by ageing population.

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), officially named so, was signed here by Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Seiji Maehara and Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma.

"The agreement will ensure access to a highly developed Japanese market for the (Indian) pharmaceutical sector with Japan for the first time committing to give the same treatment for Indian generics as their domestic industry," India's Commerce Ministry statement said.

Besides, Indian agricultural products like instant tea, seafood would also find their way into the Japanese market at concessional duties.

India's textiles products including readymade garments stand to gain significantly in terms of market access to

Japan.

Japan would also lower tariffs on petrochemicals, chemical products, jewellery and cement.

Though passenger cars have been kept in the negative list and will not be subject to concessional duties, some of the critical car parts imported by India-based automobile plants like that of Suzuki would get duty free treatment. The CEPA will also cover easing of rules for mutual investments.

"India stands to gain significantly through this agreement where 90 per cent of tariff lines are covered, while Japan has covered five per cent more tariff lines than India".

However, it has provision for protecting sensitive sectors like some auto parts, edible oils, wines and spirits, agri products like wheat and rice, it said.

The CEPA is expected to give a boost to USD 12.35 billion bilateral trade.

Tata Communications, today said that it has completed the acquisition of US-based content delivery network (CDN) provider, BitGravity.

The acquisition of BitGravity, which built the first video delivery network to deliver video on demand and live streams on the Internet, is a "logical next step" to enhance Tata Communications’ global CDN offering, the company said in a release.

In 2008, Tata Communications had entered into a strategic tie-up with the company by investing USD 11.5- million which helped it bag clients like NDTV, Web18, Quick Heal Technologies and Nimbus Communications, the release said.

PTI MUMBAI, FEB 16

India's GDP is likely to grow by an impressive 9.2 per cent in FY 11, a leading economic think-tank said.

"We believe that the (Indian) economy will grow by an impressive 9.2 per cent in fiscal 2010-11," the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) said in its latest review of the country's economy today.

Real GDP expanded by 8.9 per cent in the first-half of FY 11. In the quarter ended March 2010, real GDP grew by a handsome 8.6 per cent and in the subsequent quarters, improved further to 8.9 per cent in each quarter, CMIE said.

"The economy is expected to perform even better in the sec-

ond-half of 2010-11. We expect real GDP to grow by 9.7 per cent during this period," it said.

In the quarter ended December 2010, growth is estimated at 9.6 per cent with the major contributors being agriculture and the trade-transport-hotelscommunication segment of the services sector, it said.

The banking and insurance sectors are estimated to have done well on the back of the surge in credit growth while the services sector is estimated to have grown by 10.8 per cent during the quarter ended December 2010, it said.

It had grown by 9.3 per cent in the first quarter and 9.8 per cent in the second quarter, it added.

PTI MUMBAI, FEB 16

Piramal Glass Ltd (PGL), a leading glass container manufacturer, today said it will invest Rs 100 crore towards capacity expansion at its Jambusar unit in Gujarat.

PGL plans to add 160 tonnes per day (TPD) capacity at its Jambusar plant through a greenfield project, which is likely to be completed by FY 12, the Piramal Group firm said.

"We will focus on high margin cosmetic and perfumery segment (C&P). We have decided to increase our production in the segment as the business contributed around 32 per cent to the total sales in Q3 FY11," PGL Managing Director Vijay Shah, the company said in a release here.

Vodafone to stream ICC CWC live PANJIM (HBD) -- Vodafone Essar has bagged exclusive rights for live streaming of ESPN Star Sports’ coverage of the ICC CWC 2011, which begins February 19, 2011.

As part of this deal, Vodafone’s discerning customers will be able to watch ball-by-ball live coverage of all 49 ODI’s on their mobile phones via ESPN Mobile TV. Vodafone has been named copresenting broadcast sponsor for ESPN Star Sports’ coverage of ICC CWC 2011, making the company one of the biggest sponsors of India’s most popular sport this season.

PTI MUMBAI, FEB 16

The BSE benchmark Sensex extended gains for the fourth straight session today, closing 27 points up at 18,300.90 due to rise in realty and metal stocks as well as renewed capital inflows amid firm European cues. Besides, Tata Steel's two-fold jump in net profit in the third quarter this fiscal lifted the trading sentiment.

Brokers said retailers were cautious after the three-day pullback rally and decided to play safe ahead of the Union Budget 2011-12 to be announced on February 28, and the expiry of derivatives contract on February 24. The BSE 30-share barometer continued to veer in and out of the positive terrain before settling the day at 18,300.90, a net gain of 27.10 points or 0.15 per cent.

Reflecting a sharp growth in crop production during the 2010 kharif season, agriculture and allied activities sector is estimated to have expanded by 7.9 per cent in the quarter ended December 2010, as against an 1.8 per cent decline recorded in the year-ago period.

The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) expanded 11.7 per cent in October 2010 but in November dipped to 2.7 per cent.

"We believe this is an aberration," CMIE said.

The think-tank estimated that the industrial sector (including construction) grew by 8.3 per cent during the quarter ended December 2010.

Piramal Glass to invest Rs 100 cr

PANJIM (HBD) -- Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces bagged this year’s ‘TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards 2011’ across multiple categories. The Taj Exotica, Goa is among the ‘Top 10 Luxury hotels in India’ and one of the ‘Top 25 Hotels in India’. Vivanta by Taj Fort Aguada, Goa has featured among the Top 10 Relaxation/Spa hotels in India.

The annual TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards honour the world’s best hotels, earning their distinction by the unbiased reviews and opinions from those who know them best – real travellers. The Awards rely on its audience feedback for their favorite hotel based on their personal experience and individual preferences. TripAdvisor attracts more than 50 million unique monthly visitors* across 17 popular travel brands. This year’s awards recognise 719 properties worldwide and include 66 hotels from India, voted across eight categories.This is the ninth edition of the awards globally and the second edition of the India Travellers’ Choice Hotel Awards.

Sensex up 27 points

"I am confident that through this agreement our bilateral trade would double by 2015 and touch USD 25 billion," Sharma said. India has already entered into FTA with Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN) and South Korea.

Under the pact, the two countries will continue talks over the issue of whether to allow Indian nationals to work in Japan as nurses and "caregivers".

The statement also said that Japan has committed to cover not only computer engineers but also mechanical, electrical, construction, industrial and design engineers besides project management specialists.

"The agreement also envisages the conclusion of a social security agreement within three years," it said.

Under the social security agreement, talks for which commenced in January, Indian professionals working in Japan

CMIE projects 9.2% GDP growth for FY 11

Tata Comm acquires BitGravity

The TBZ jewellery expo at Margao.

BIZ

GOA, THURSDAY, 17 FEBRUARY, 2011

Aban Offshor, 586.3, 604.8, 577.25, 590.3 Abb Ltd., 665.65, 665.65, 658.2, 661.25 Abg Shipyard, 349.7, 363, 347.2, 359.5 Acc Limited, 1003, 1015, 986.3, 999.65 Adani Enterp, 610.85, 628.5, 603.05, 626.15 Aditya Birla, 775.05, 787, 772.1, 784.45 Allahabad Ba, 206.9, 207.4, 203.1, 204.1 Alstom Proje, 573, 577.5, 563, 568.05 Ambuja Cemen, 120, 122.7, 119, 122 Andhra Bank, 149.5, 150.9, 145.75, 146.7 Ashok Leylan, 54.1, 55.1, 53.2, 53.65 Asian Paints, 2585, 2617.5, 2550, 2564.45 Axis Bank Li, 1265.15, 1305, 1265.15, 1296.8 Bajaj Hindus, 77.5, 78.6, 75.6, 77.5 Bank Of Baro, 924.8, 926.8, 904, 908.05 Bank Of Indi, 445.1, 448.9, 440.5, 442.75 Beml Limited, 660, 680, 655.7, 668.75 Bharat Elect, 1698, 1698, 1646, 1653.75 Bharat Forge, 322.55, 324.6, 314.8, 317.05 Bharat Petro, 606, 614.4, 600.95, 603.5 Bharti Airte, 329, 332.5, 325.25, 328.4 Bhel, 2084.7, 2088.8, 2043.4, 2048.05 Bhushan Stee, 400, 408.4, 395.1, 402.8 Biocon Limit, 335, 346.8, 335, 343.45 Bombay Dyein, 331, 357.4, 325.25, 353.7

Bosch Limite, 6044, 6045, 5970.05, 5991.95 Brigade Ente, 99.9, 100.4, 98, 98.7 Cairn India, 324, 324.65, 318.65, 320.05 Canara Bank, 586.7, 595.4, 581.7, 589.95 Central Bank, 159, 160.5, 156.2, 157.35 Century Text, 325, 330.7, 320.1, 325.6 Cesc Ltd, 291.15, 301, 291.15, 298.65 Chambal Fert, 75.25, 76.7, 75, 75.3 Chennai Petr, 205.65, 207, 201, 202.3 Cipla Ltd, 311.9, 313.7, 304.95, 305.8 Colgate Palm, 820, 829.9, 819.05, 821.9 Container Co, 1104, 1105, 1066.05, 1073.6 Crompton Gre, 267.85, 269.7, 260.6, 261.2 Cummins Indi, 671, 678.85, 660.85, 667.65 Dabur India, 92.6, 97.8, 92.25, 96.8 Deccan Chron, 77.45, 80.4, 76.65, 77.4 Dish Tv Indi, 64.85, 64.85, 62.6, 63 Divi’s Labor, 658, 662, 649.05, 652.85 Dlf Limited, 238, 242.3, 234.05, 238.4 Dr. reddy’s, 1520.5, 1562.8, 1502, 1511.2 Edelweiss Ca, 38.3, 39.6, 38, 39.25 Educomp Solu, 480, 489.5, 473.2, 482.8 Eih Limited, 103, 108, 101.45, 103.95 Engineers In, 294.4, 294.4, 288, 289.7 Essar Oil Lt, 110.7, 111.95, 109.6, 111.1

Essar Shippi, 87.1, 89.4, 86, 86.7 Exide Indust, 127, 133.45, 126.95, 131.45 Federal Bank, 383.95, 390.95, 382, 384.7 Financial Te, 829.8, 844, 824, 835 Gail (india), 459.7, 461.7, 452.55, 458.55 Gammon India, 118.95, 123.5, 116.25, 121.65 Glaxosmithkl, 2221.15, 2233.95, 2202.15, 2218.5 Glenmark Pha, 280.6, 290, 280.1, 288.65 Gmr Infrastr, 42.45, 42.5, 41.15, 41.9 Godrej Indus, 172.95, 175.6, 170.95, 172.85 Grasim Indus, 2305, 2359, 2300, 2316.95 Great Offsho, 278.5, 283.45, 275.3, 277.4 Gtl Infra.Lt, 37.3, 38.45, 37.3, 38 Gujarat Mine, 116.9, 116.9, 115, 115.9 Gujarat N R, 52.35, 52.8, 50.1, 50.55 Gujarat Stat, 97.9, 98, 95.25, 95.95 Gvk Pow. & I, 28, 28.95, 27.95, 28.6 Hcl Technolo, 485.85, 485.85, 471.05, 473.75 Hdfc Bank Lt, 2114, 2122, 2085.05, 2094.85 Hdfc Ltd, 642.3, 646.85, 624, 626.9 Hero Honda M, 1501.25, 1532.25, 1485.25, 1492.8 Hindalco in, 213.35, 215.55, 207.6, 211.65 Hindustan Co, 35.4, 37.45, 35.1, 37.2 Hindustan Ma, 63.8, 64.4, 62.5, 62.9 Hindustan Pe, 356.05, 361, 354.1, 356.15

Hindustan Un, 272.15, 276.9, 272, 275.9 Hindustan Zi, 1281.05, 1288.95, 1270, 1275.3 Housing Dev, 148.8, 153.5, 145.85, 151.75 Icici Bank L, 1046.5, 1059.6, 1044.25, 1050.6 Idea Cellula, 62, 63.75, 61.5, 63.2 Ifci Ltd, 51.6, 52.45, 51.4, 52.1 India Cement, 93, 93.4, 91.65, 92.1 India Infoli, 71.9, 74.8, 70.2, 73.4 Indiabulls F, 153.75, 153.9, 150.5, 152.3 Indiabulls R, 114, 119.35, 112.15, 117.75 Indian Bank, 218, 218.6, 211, 214.2 Indian Hotel, 82.7, 82.7, 80, 80.35 Indian Oil C, 320, 337.5, 320, 331.55 Indian Overs, 131.9, 131.9, 127.85, 128.3 Indus Dev Ba, 138, 138.65, 135.05, 136.5 Indusind Ban, 223.5, 226, 221.2, 224.15 Infosys Tech, 3082.25, 3123.7, 3081.1, 3103 Infra. dev., 141.85, 141.85, 134.65, 138.8 Ispat Indust, 22.6, 24.05, 22.6, 23.85 Itc Ltd, 156.2, 158.85, 156.2, 156.9 Ivrcl Infras, 72.85, 77.9, 71.85, 77 Jai Corp Lim, 169.2, 176.7, 161.15, 170.7 Jaiprakash A, 84.1, 91, 83.85, 90.3 Jet Airways, 485, 498.8, 470, 493.5 Jindal Saw L, 202, 210.7, 196.5, 208.35

would be exempted from paying social security contribution in the East Asian country if they make such payments in India.

Similarly the FTA (officially known as Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)) also covers intellectual property rights for the first time "and the parameters of our commitments on these are circumscribed by national legislation and agreement in TRIPS".

The pact would also provide access to each others telecom networks, besides facilitating establishment of financial services like banks.

Hailing the pact, Indian industry chambers said the agreement would boost bilateral trade and strengthen economic ties between the two countries.

"As the majority of Japan’s non-agricultural tariff lines would see immediate duty

elimination for exports from India, with a strategic approach, India could significantly improve its share in Japan’s total imports from the existing low level of 0.7 per cent," FICCI Secretary General Amit Mitra said.

BOARD MEETINGS Thomas Cook Seshachal Tech Source: Indiainfoline.com

MF FUNDA SUNDARAM MUTUAL FUND has launched a new fund named as Sundaram Fixed Term Plan - AE, a close ended debt scheme with the duration of 91 days from the date of allotment of units. The NFO price for the scheme is Rs 10 per unit. The new issue will be open for subscription from February 16, 2011 and closes on March 1, 2011.

The fund seeks to collect a minimum subscription amount of Rs 10 million under the scheme during the NFO period.

Entry and exit load charge for the scheme will be nil. Benchmark Index for the scheme will be Crisil Short-Term Bond Fund Index.

The fund manager for the scheme will be Dwijendra Srivastava, head-fixed income securities.

PRINCIPAL MUTUAL FUND has launched a new fund named as Principal PNB Fixed Maturity Plan - 91 Days - Series XXVIII, a close ended debt scheme. The NFO price for the scheme is Rs 10 for each unit. The new issue will be open for subscription from February 16 and closes on February 17, 2011.

The minimum application amount is Rs 5,000 and in multiples of Rs 10 thereafter.

The fund seeks to collect a minimum subscription amount of Rs 350 million under the scheme during the NFO period.

Entry and exit load charge for the scheme will be nil. Benchmark Index for the scheme will be CRISIL Liquid Fund Index. The fund manager for the scheme will be Shobit Gupta.

UTI EQUITY TAX SAVINGS PLAN (UTI-ETSP) declares tax-free dividend of 10% (Rs 1 per unit on a face value of Rs 10). Pursuant to the payment of dividend, the NAV of the dividend option of the scheme would fall to the extent of payout and statutory levy if any.

The record date for the dividend is February 21, 2011. All unit holders registered under the dividend option of UTI Equity Tax Savings Plan as on February 21, 2011 will be eligible for this dividend. Also investors who join the dividend option of the scheme on or before the record date will be eligible for the dividend.

SBI MUTUAL FUND today launched a five-year close-ended capital protection scheme targeted at investors with a low-to-medium risk profile.

Under the scheme, Capital Protection Oriented Fund Series II, a minimum of 74 per cent of the corpus will be invested in AAA rated debt instruments, while the balance will go towards equity, SBI Mutual Fund Chief Investment Officer Navneet Munot told reporters here.

"The current environment of volatility in equity markets and higher interest rates in fixed income make the product very timely.

This is the best of both worlds (debt andequity) an investor can get," he added.

The scheme, which will be open between February 18 and March 11, entails protection of the principal while the investor also gets a chance to participate in equity markets, Munot said.

It will not have an entry or exit load, while the net asset value (NAV) will be disclosed on a daily basis. The minimum initial investment in the scheme will be Rs 5,000.

In the equity component, there is a cap of 10 per cent on single stock, Munot said, adding currently the fund house is bullish on scrips from the consumption oriented, healthcare and IT sectors.

Jindal Steel, 656, 675, 653.5, 669.7 Jsw Steel Li, 895, 921.6, 890.5, 897.85 Kotak Mahind, 410.9, 414, 400.2, 409.4 Lakshmi Mach, 2151.4, 2209, 2151.4, 2189.5 Lanco Infrat, 39.25, 40.4, 38.5, 39.65 Larsen & Tou, 1635, 1659.8, 1631.1, 1654.5 Lic Housing, 192.6, 197, 191.2, 193.2 Lupin Limite, 423.6, 430.45, 414.1, 416.4 Mahanagar Te, 44.3, 44.45, 43.65, 44 Mahindra & M, 668, 668, 646.55, 655.8 Maruti Suzuk, 1240, 1240, 1221, 1227.95 Max India Lt, 147.7, 148, 146, 147.2 Moser-baer (, 41.4, 43.25, 41.35, 42.5 Mrpl, 63.95, 64.7, 62.45, 64.1 Nagarjuna Co, 101.95, 108.45, 99.3, 107 Nagarjuna Fe, 29, 29.45, 28.75, 28.9 National Alu, 401.35, 411.45, 401.35, 407.4 Neyveli Lign, 103.2, 106.7, 102.2, 105.25 Ntpc Ltd, 181.2, 182.25, 180.1, 181.6 Oil And Natu, 281.05, 284, 278.1, 279.65 Omaxe Limite, 135.1, 140, 134, 136.85 Oriental Ban, 343.9, 345.2, 335.15, 337.7 Pantaloon Re, 274.35, 284.9, 270, 278.95 Parsvnath De, 30, 32.3, 29.2, 31.6 Petronet Lng, 121, 121, 118, 118.5

Power Fin Co, 259.5, 262, 251.25, 254.7 Power Grid C, 98.45, 98.8, 98.2, 98.6 Praj Industr, 70.5, 72.4, 69.65, 72 Punj Lloyd L, 72.5, 75.3, 71.35, 74.55 Punjab Natio, 1093, 1112.5, 1081.8, 1102.8 Rajesh Expor, 139, 140.4, 137, 138.45 Ranbaxy Labs, 516, 527.1, 507.25, 510.65 Rashtriya Ch, 87.05, 88.5, 86.55, 87.2 Reliance Cap, 479.5, 489, 468.55, 476.4 Reliance Com, 102, 102.4, 99, 99.6 Reliance Ene, 1074, 1075, 1060, 1068.78 Reliance Ind, 500, 642, 500, 623.3 Reliance Ind, 938.3, 950.8, 938.1, 944.15 Reliance Pow, 121, 123.85, 119.25, 121.75 Rolta India, 145, 148.4, 142, 147.6 Satyam Compu, 65.35, 65.35, 62.1, 62.75 Sesa Goa Ltd, 309, 314.9, 306.2, 308.5 Shipping Cor, 112.05, 113.6, 112.05, 112.45 Siemens Ltd, 837.1, 843.8, 837.1, 839.6 Sintex Indus, 166, 166.9, 155.1, 157.7 Sobha Develo, 241.55, 244, 238, 242.05 State Bank O, 2732.35, 2773, 2723.7, 2751.05 Steel Author, 161.8, 163.9, 160.1, 162.95 Sterlite Ind, 163.1, 165.4, 163, 163.65 Sun Pharmace, 420.25, 436.5, 410.65, 417.3 Sun Tv Netwo, 388, 454, 388, 425.4

Suzlon Energ, 47.6, 48.95, 47.35, 48.35 Tata Communi, 210.55, 213.35, 208.05, 212.15 Tata Consult, 1105, 1109.7, 1081, 1096.5 Tata Motors, 1234, 1244.7, 1217.35, 1238.45 Tata Power C, 1258, 1295, 1258, 1284.55 Tata Steel L, 610, 644.5, 605.8, 641.4 Tata Teleser, 15.8, 16.25, 15.7, 16.05 Tech Mahindr, 626.25, 647, 620, 641.15 The Ge Shpg., 283, 284.85, 280, 281.75 The Phoenix, 189.95, 190, 185, 187.3 Thermax Ltd, 631, 651.5, 631, 642.25 Titan Indust, 3210, 3288, 3176.65, 3261.7 Torrent Powe, 230.2, 234.85, 230.05, 230.5 Triveni Engg, 81.3, 84.6, 80.5, 82.85 Tv18 India L, 81.7, 81.9, 79.2, 81 Uco Bank, 104.25, 105.75, 103.55, 104.65 Ultratech Ce, 945, 949, 926.3, 938.45 Union Bank O, 343, 349, 338.55, 346.9 Unitech Ltd, 34.85, 38.65, 33.1, 38.2 United Phosp, 144.2, 147.6, 143.25, 144.85 Videocon Ind, 200, 204.3, 197.1, 201.9 Vijaya Bank, 84.5, 84.85, 83.05, 83.55 Voltas Ltd, 176.8, 178.8, 173.6, 177.45 Wipro Ltd, 421.55, 439.8, 421, 437.15 Yes Bank Lim, 278.7, 279.7, 274.3, 277.35 Zee Entertai, 117.5, 118.45, 116.2, 117.95

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BIZ

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GOA, THURSDAY, 17 FEBRUARY, 2011

Budget to give clarity on reforms: PM PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 16

An Indian vendor prepares a display of vegetables on a stall at a market in New Delhi on Wednesday. Rising food prices have pushed about 44 million people into poverty in developing countries since last June, the World Bank warned.

Insulating poor without hurting growth: PM PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 16

With high food prices hurting the poor most, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said the government was trying to insulate them from high inflation without compromising on economic growth.

"We want to deal it (inflation) in a manner that the growth rhythm is not disturbed," Singh said, interacting with editors with television channels here.

He indicated the Reserve Bank was striking a balance between controlling inflation and economic growth.

"If we were concerned only in curbing inflation we could have done with pursuing tighter monetary policies.(But)..if in the process the growth rate gets hurt that would not do our country any good", the Prime Minister said.

The RBI has been tightening monetary policy by raising key policy interest rates. It has raised in seven installments the benchmark policy rates since March,2010, resulting in increase in borrowing costs.

Singh said the general infla-

tion was expected to decline to seven per cent before end of the current fiscal in March, while the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was pegged at 8.5 per cent.

On the back of sharp increases in prices of fruits, vegetables, milk, eggs and meat, food inflation has hurt the common-man most.

It has been hovering above 15 per cent in the past few months before falling to 13.07 per cent in the last week of January. However, the general inflation is at 8.23 per cent.

Stating that the price rise, particularly of food items, has hurt the "poor- man most", the Prime Minister referred to global factors responsible for inflation over which the government has no control.

"We don't have at our disposal" instruments to insulate the economy from international events such as the developments in Egypt, which have resulted in spiralling crude oil prices.

"We don't have control over international events... oil prices are rising, food prices are also

rising," he said.

Singh said efforts were being made to insulate the poor through programmes like NREGA and keeping prices at state-run ration shops unchanged since 2002.

The Prime Minister said the government is trying to protect them through Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee scheme, under which it provides a fixed wage of Rs 100 per day, and by not raising the foodgrains prices under PDS. He emphasised that the government would adjust the wage under MNREGA with every rise in the Consumer Price Index.

"Although the inflation does hurt, we have put in place social safety nets which were not there six years before and that does not mean that we should not work together to improve the situation," Singh said.

Besides, he said that "as far as foodgrains distributed through public distribution system are concerned, there has been no change in prices since 2002".

Under attack for high food prices and slow reforms, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said the UPA has not given up its economic agenda and promised clear measures in the upcoming Budget.

Exuding confidence that inflation rate should be "no more than 7 per cent" by March-end from 8.23 per cent in January, Singh said the government's effort has been to rein in high prices without hurting growth, which he projected to be at 8.5 per cent this fiscal.

Addressing electronic media editors here, Singh said global factors like high crude and food prices were not under the control of the government and that efforts were being made to insulate the poor through programmes like NREGA and keeping prices at state-run ration shops unchanged since 2002.

"We want to deal it (inflation) in a manner that the growth rhythm is not disturbed. If we

were concerned only in curbing inflation we could have done with pursuing tighter monetary policies...if in the process the growth rate gets hurt that would not do our country any good," he said.

Rejecting criticism that the government has given up on economic reforms, the Prime Minister said: "We will persist... I sincerely hope in the (upcoming) Budget we will see a clearer picture of the reform agenda."

He, however, blamed the Opposition for not cooperating with the government on "path breaking reforms on Goods and Services Tax (GST)".

The Opposition, "particularly the BJP, has taken a very hostile attitude," he said.

For the introduction of GST, the Constitution Amendment Bill has to be passed by a twothird majority in both houses of Parliament and ratification by at least 15 State Assemblies.

The draft of GST, which subsumes most of the state and

Pranab for coordinated approach at G-20 meet PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 16

Finance Pranab Mukherjee will press for a coordinated approach at G-20 ministerial meeting at Paris to deal with the global problems, which include rising food prices, disruptive capital flows and fragile economic recovery. "...the recovery of the global economy remains fragile, uneven and is fraught with significant downside risks. The coordinated response in the aftermath of the global crisis, and the resultant recovery, even if it is not complete, has clearly demonstrated the merits of a coordinated approach", said a Finance Ministry release ahead of Mukherjee's visit to Paris.

Mukherjee will leave tomorrow for the two-day meeting of G-20 Finance Ministers beginning February 18 at Paris. The ministerial will be preceded by

a meeting of the central bank governors.

The first meeting of the G-20 Finance Ministers under the presidentship of France is being held at a time when the rising commodity prices is threatening to push more and more people below poverty line.

According to a World Bank report released ahead of the G20 meet, rising food prices have pushed 4.4 crore people below poverty line in the developing countries.

Besides rising food prices and disruptive capital flows, the G-20 ministers will focus on issues like policy framework for a strong, sustainable and balanced growth, reform of the International Monetary System (IMS) and indicative guidelines for quantifying global imbalances.

During his stay in Paris, Mukherjee will also meet his

RIL plans upto $30 b investment in 5 years PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 16

Billionaire Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries is planning major investments, totaling up to USD 30 billion over next five years in its various businesses, including energy and telecom sectors.

These investments of USD 25-30 billion (well over Rs 1,00,000 crore) would be mainly targeted at petrochemicals, exploration and production and telecom businesses of the corporate conglomerate.

The bullish investment outlook was disclosed by RIL at an investor conference hosted by Bank of America Merrill Lynch (BofA-ML) last week.

The company expects its five

main business in the next 5-10 years to be petrochemicals, refining, E&P, retail and telecom.

As per the proposed capex (capital expenditure) investment plan, RIL would invest USD 10-12 billion in petrochemicals, while spending another USD 10 billion on exploration and development of (oil and gas) discoveries already made in shale gas in India and US. Besides, RIL would invest USD 4.5-4.7 billion (over Rs 20,000 crore) in telecom over the next five years, Bank of America-Merrill Lynch (BofAML) said in a research note about its investor conference.

RIL has already spent USD 2.8 billion on acquiring 4G li-

censes and spectrum, which it got last year through acquisition of Infotel Broadband Services.

Infotel was the only entity to get pan-India license in the auction of Broadband Wireless Access spectrum conducted by

the government last year.

RIL is currently in the process of finalising arrangement with leading global technology players, service providers, infrastructure providers, application developers, device manufacturers and others for its 4G (fourth-generation) telecom service offerings.

BofA-ML also said that RIL has indicated a surge in its EBTDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation) to USD 15 billion

by FY15, from about USD 6.4 billion in the last fiscal ended March 2010.

Last month, RIL reported a 28.14 per cent rise in its thirdquarter net profit at Rs 5,136

crore, helped by robust performance in its refining and petrochemicals businesses.

The turnover rose by about six per cent to Rs 62,399 crore for the quarter ended December 31, 2010, from Rs 58,848 crore in the year-ago period.

Commenting on the results, RIL chief Mukesh Ambani had said: "Reliance had another record quarter as both refining and petrochemical margins continued to improve and certain products recorded historic levels."

"Robust demand growth in home markets and highly competitive assets enabled Reliance to have industry leading operating rates and margins," he added.

India for global forum tax-related info PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 16

Concerned over reluctance of some countries to share tax related information, India will seek a multilateral platform for automatic exchange of such details at the G-20 meeting of Finance Ministers. "...overcoming tax evasion requires close co-ordination between all countries on a multilateral basis. There is need to develop an effective multilateral platform for automatic, spontaneous and requested ex-

change of information," said an official release issued ahead of G-20 ministerial meet on February 18.

India will be represented by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, who will leave for Paris tomorrow.

India, it added, will soon come out with a "toolbox of counter measures" to deal with non-cooperative jurisdictions-nations which do not share tax related information.

G-20 leaders had earlier asked each country to develop

LAUNCH PAD

Sensodyne Toothpaste launched

a set of counter measures against such non-cooperative jurisdictions.

Pointing out that some countries are still to conclude Tax Information Exchange Agreements (TIEA), it said, the G-20 should consider classifying such nations as "non-cooperative jurisdictions."

India has already signed TIEA with four countries -- Bahamas, British Virgin Islands, Isle of Man and Bermuda -- for exchange of information to check tax evasion and money laundering.

Although the G-20 leaders at Seoul summit last year urged all the countries to conclude TIEA, it said, "some countries are still not respond-

ing to the call of other countries to enter into TIEA and continue to insist on entering into Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) instead.

"The need to consider classifying such jurisdictions as noncooperative jurisdictions may also be discussed", it added.

The government here has been facing flak from Opposition for not being able to bring back black money stashed in tax havens and also naming persons involved in such transactions.

Regretting that some countries distinguish between 'tax fraud' and 'tax evasion', the release said, it helps in deliberate concealment of wealth for the

purpose of tax evasion. "...therefore there is need to encourage countries to remove this distinction in order to help efforts of government authorities in pursuing tax cheats who have parked funds outside the country", it added.

Besides, India will also seek greater representation on standard setting bodies such as the IASB (International Accounting Standards Board) which is presently dominated by only some accounting organisations.

India has already set up a Group of Ministers under the chairmanship of Mukherjee to suggest measures to deal with the menace of corruption and black money generation.

RBEI to hire 800 more PTI BANGALORE, FEB 16

PANJIm (HBD) -- GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare has launched Sensodyne - its No 1 global brand- in India.

Incidence of tooth sensitivity is close to 17% in India, however awareness about the condition is very low thus most of the cases remain untreated. Sensodyne is clinically proven to provide relief in two weeks. It is one of the fastest growing toothpaste brands in the world and a market leader in many markets.

Sensodyne will be available in two variants- Fresh Mint Toothpaste and Fresh Gel, priced at Rs 42 and Rs 45 respectively for a 40 gm tube. Sensodyne Fresh Mint is also available in a bigger 80gm pack for Rs 75.

Robert Bosch Engineering and Business Solutions Limited (RBEI), formerly known as Robert Bosch India Limited, today announced that it would share the global responsibilty with the German Diesel and Gasoline Systems Electonic Controls business unit for developing power train electronics.

RBEI, also planned an investment of Rs 300 crore over the next two years towards infrastructure development and re-

central taxes, is being opposed

by NDA ruled states.

Indicating big initiatives for infrastructure development in the Budget, Singh said: "I believe we are going to have a fresh wave of infrastructure investment with the help of PPP (public-private partnership) model."

Stating that discussions are going on to create a infrastructure development fund, he said

cruit 800 engineers in the next two years in the power train domain.

Earlier, the development of power train electronics (used to drive cars) was led by the German unit, however with the new announcement some of the projects would be led by the India unit while some others by the German unit, Vijay Ratnaparkhe MD, RBEI, said here today.

It would mean two global hubs for developing power train electronics, he told a press conference.

"REBI will now take on world wide responsibility for additional customers, markets and projects in power train electronics development", he said.

This move will catapult RBEI engineers on par with the global best; it will see local engineers leading and directing global teams, beyoudn the current BRIC countries.

This will be the first global centre for DGS-EC outside of Germany, where Bosch Group is headquartered.

French counterpart Christine Legarde and deliberate on bilateral and multi lateral issues of mutual interest including revenue related matters.

His agenda in Paris also include a meeting with the representatives of the BRIC nations, which besides Mukherjee include Finance Ministers of China, Brazil and Russia.

The agenda of the BRIC meeting include assessment of the G-20 Framework, reform of the global economic system, preparations for BRIC Summit (Beijing) and BRIC economic co-operation.

Mukherjee will also be a lead speaker along with Canadian Finance Minister Jim Flaherty at the conference which is expected to open with a presentation on the global economy by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Hexaware about to seal 5-6 deals PTI MUMBAI, FEB 16

IT major, Hexaware Technologies, is pursuing about half-adozen deals in the range of USD 25-30-million and hopes to seal at least a few in the next three-months, an official said.

"We are in advanced stages of negotiations with some existing clients and hope to clinch a few deals this quarter.

We are talking to some 5-6 customers--the deals are worth totally around USD 150-million at around USD 25-30-million each," Hexaware's chairman, Atul Nishar,said.

These are in the company's core business segments of travel and transportation and capital markets, he said, adding the customers are US and Europe-based.

The company has put-up a healthy performance in Q4 FY 10 (financial year-ending December) with its revenues increasing 18.9 per cent at Rs 299.6-crore as against Rs 252crore in the year-ago period. Its PAT for the period stood at Rs 39.6-crore as against Rs 36crore in the year-ago period.

"There was an all-round growth and we exceeded our guidance for Q4. Our margins have also grown well," Nishar said. The company expects an upward of 25 per cent growth in its top-line in FY 11. In FY 10, the company's revenues grew to Rs 1,054.6-crore as against Rs 1,038.6-crore in the yearago period.

Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee may make some announcements. "Some discussions are going on...and most probably, Finance Minister will outline something in that direction."

India needs investment to the tune of over one trillion dollars in the 12th five year plan (in 2012-17) to sustain a growth rate of 8-9 per cent.

When asked from where the country would mop up resources, he said: "We must create a viable corporate debt market. I think that is the direction in which we must move."

Commenting on the drop in FDI, Singh admitted there was a need for "favourable" environment for fund flow from abroad.

"We need to strengthen the resolve to create favourable environment for larger flow of funds from abroad," he said.

The Prime Minister said government policies could not be blamed for the current drop in FDI as the current international scenario was prompting foreign funds to move out from emerging markets "I think we need to strengthen the resolve to create favourable environment for larger flow of funds from abroad", he said.

During April-December of

the current fiscal, FDI inflows declined by 23.14 per cent to USD 16.03 billion over the year ago period.

The Prime Minister also said that discussions are going on to create a infrastructure development fund and Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee may make some announcements in this direction.

Singh also assured the government has not given up on reforms and that more reforms could be unveiled in the forthcoming Budget.

"No, we have not given up on reforms. We will persist... I sincerely hope in the (upcoming) Budget we will see a clearer picture of the reform agenda," Singh said.

He reiterated that the government has been working on a host of reform initiatives, some of which have already been successful.

"We are working on a Food Security Bill The Right to Education is now a reality... The ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) is a reality... and also the National Rural Health Mission," Singh said.

Pg 14

SPORTS

GOA, Thursday, 17 February, 2011

Mayem, Betim win HERALD CORRESPONDENT MAYEM, FEB 16

Mayem Union and Betim SC registered victories over Sateri Sports Club, Valpoi and Khorjuvem Cricket Club respectively in 20 overs cricket organised by Mayem Union at Mayem ground on Sunday.

Mayem defeated Sateri by 156 runs. Electing to bat, Mayem scored 217 for the loss of 6 wickets with Sunil Harmalkar (55), Nitesh Narvekar (41), Pradeep Harmalkar (41).

In reply, Sateri were bundled out for 61 runs with Sukdo Gaonkar (10) and Sameer Gaonkar (8).

In bowling, Amritesh Gaonkar picked up 2 wickets while Krishna Gaonkar and Rohidas Gaonkar picked up a wicket each for Sateri.

Pradeep Harmalkar, Nitesh Narvekar and Nitin Sawant picked up 2 wickets each for Mayem.

Electing to bat first, Betim scored 132 runs all out with Fareed Khan (40), Nagraj Gawade (19) and Sunny Saini (12). In reply, Khorjuvem managed to score 122 runs all out.

For Khorjuvem, Rupesh Narvekar picked up 3 wickets while Prajyot Pole claimed 2 wickets. For Betim, Pradhan Shetty picked up 3 wickets while Gauresh Sawant picked up 2 wickets.

Churchill rally to overcome JCT

Dempo for Qatar HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, FEB 16

Dempo Sports Club chief coachcum-secretary, Armando Colaco sounded optimistic that his team would do well against Qatar’s Al Sadd in AFC Champions League on February 19 in Qatar.

Dempo left for Qatar on

Wednesday evening.

The team: goalkeepers - Subhasish Roy Chowdhury and Laxnikant Kattimani.

Defenders - Mahesh Gawli, Domnick Noronha, Sameer Naik, Marcus Peixioto, Cresson Antao, Covan Lawrence. Midfielders C l i f f o rd M i r a n d a , C l i m a x Lawrence, Peter Carvalho, Nicolau Borges, Ogba Kalu, Godwin Franco and Roberto Mendes da Silva, Joe Rodrigues and Roullah Samiena.

Forwards - Ranty Martins, Joaquim Abranches and Clifton Gonsalves.

Officials - Armando Colaco (chief coach), Mauricio Afonso (coach), Custodio Almeida (manager) and Venkatesh (physio).

Media officer Sudhakar Shanbag.

JCT players in action against Churchill at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Wednesday.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, FEB 16

Churchill Brothers came from behind to demolish JCT 3-1in a 15th round match of 4th ILeague at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda on Wednesday. The teams were tied 1-1 at half time.

Churchill dominated the proceedings for the entire 90 minutes. However, they looked like they would have to be satisfied with a point as their strikers failed to finish off numerous moves.

JCT’s goal had a narrow shave in the 7th minute but defender Denzil Franco’s cross from the right saw JCT defender Omolaja Nurain Kareem attempting to clear the danger. However, his try hit the crossbar and off the rebound, striker Binesh Balan shot wide much to the disbelief of Churchill’s supporters.

Churchill had a couple of excellent chances to surge ahead.

Following a swift move by hardworking midfielder Zakeer Maundampara, striker Mo -

Photo: Third Eye

hammed Rafi relayed it to striker Boima Karpeh who with only JCT keeper Naveen Kumar at his mercy, blasted wide from handshaking distance.

The Punjab side also had scoring chances. Jagpreet Singh’s free kick saw striker Saran Singh making a mess of it in front of Churchill’s goal in the 17th minute and later again Saran’s try missed the mark narrowly off a pass from Amandeep Singh.

The hosts paid dearly for their mistake as JCT found the net in

the 30th minute. JCT earned a free kick just near the top of the box following a handball by defender Gourmangi Singh. Stopper back Omolaja Nurain Kareeem gave no chance to Churchill’s keeper Arindam Bhattacharya.

Stung by the setback, Churchill made concerted efforts to neutralise the lead but strikers Binesh Balan and Boima Karpeh spurned easy chances. Later, midfielder Zakeer’s try hit the crossbar much in the 42nd minute.

Churchill struck the equaliser through striker Mohammed Rafi in injury time.

Man-of-the-match Lenny Rodrigues’ cross from the right deflected off Badru Ibrahim’s leg and off the deflection Mohammed Rafi made no mistake in punishing the JCT goalkeeper.

Crossing over, Churchill showed better application with hardworking Zakeer Mundampura spelling trouble for JCT. Churchill made it 2-1 in the 51st minute, thanks to a

well executed goal from midfielder Zakeer Mundampara, who ran as Karpeh slipped past his marker and drilled a shot past JCT keeper Naveen Kumar.

Churchill struck yet again in the 65th minute through striker Boima Karpeh. Striker Mohammed Rafi found striker Boima, who lost his composure but quickly regained it and slammed it past the rival keeper to give his team a 3-1cushion.

Earlier, JCT came close in reducing the margin but striker Jaspreet Singh’s carpet drive missed the mark narrowly.

Churchill had a chance to further increase their tally in the 78th minute but substitute Kayne Vincent’s feeble try went straight into the safe hands of JCT’s keeper.

The win propelled Churchill Brothers to take their tally to 29 from 15 matches while JCT suffered their seventh defeat and have 14 points from the same number of encounters.

ONGC hold Arrows 1-1 PTI KOLHAPUR, FEB 16

A goal in the dying minutes helped hosts ONGC rally from a goal down and eke out a 1-1 draw against Indian Arrows in the round 15 I-League match here on Wednesday.

After a barren first half, the visitors took the lead in the 86th

minute through defender Jeje Lalpekhlua.

However, ONGC's Kamal Thapa scored moments before the final hooter went out to secure a draw for the home team.

Following the draw, ONGC have 11 points from 15 games, while Indian Arrows have 15 points from as many matches.

Unity HS emerge champs St. Joseph, Loyola, Chubby

Cheeks, Guardian Angel up HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, FEB 16

St Joseph's High School, Calangute had to sweat it out to prevail over a young St Britto's High School, Mapusa via penalties 2-1 in the inaugural match of Mahindra Youth Football Challenge (MYFC) U-14 school football tournament-cum-talent hunt organised by Goa Football Association at Duler Stadium, Mapusa on Wednesday.

Both teams displayed their Unity High School, Valpoi alongwith Akram Shaikh (PE teacher) and Rafik Bepari (coach).

Photo by Ashraf Khan HERALD CORRESPONDENT VALPOI, FEB 16

Unity High School, Valpoi bagged the first place at Sattari level U-14 inter-school football

t o u r n a m e n t a t Va l p o i o n Wednesday.

In the finals, Unity HS defeated Government High School, Pissurlem 4-0. Afridi Khan and

Muzammil Shah were major contributors scoring a brace each.

Earlier, in the semi-finals, Unity defeated Sri Ram High school, Khadki via penalties.

Margao RCC emerge champs HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, FEB 16

Margao RCC beat Bicholim RCC by 21 runs to emerge champions in Shubham Naik memorial inter-RCC U-14 cricket tournament organised by Shubham Naik Trust in association with Sports Authority of Goa at SAG sports complex, Fatorda on Wednesday.

Batting first, Margao scored 179 for 5 in 40 overs. Saiesh Naik hit a brilliant 72 runs. He was ably supported by Sajan Shirodkar who remained undefeated at 32.

For Bicholim, Sukhdev Gaad was the most successful bowler scalping 2 for 34 while Madhukar Payaji, Somnath Panograhi and Tejas Harlankar shared one

wicket each.

In reply, Bicholim’s Somnath Paingrahi’s swashbuckling 86 runs was not enough to achieve the target and were bundled out at 158 in 38.2 overs. Manthan Khulkar picked up 4 for 17 while Saiesh Gaonkar took 2 for 17.

Fo l l o w i n g p r i z e s w e r e awarded: Best batsman - Somnath Paingrahi (Bicholim RCC).

Man of the finals - Saiesh Gaonkar (Margao RCC). Best bowler - Manthan Khutkar (Margao RCC). Man of the series in memory of Saurabh Sardessai Saiesh Naik Gaonkar (Margao RCC).

Brief score: Margao RCC, 179 for 5 in 40 overs. (Saiesh Naik Gaonkar not out 72, Sajjan Shi-

rodkar not out 32, Maruti Huggi 22 runs. Sukhdev Gaad 2-34, Madhukar Payaji, Somnath Panigrahi and Tejas Harlankar 1 wicket each). Beat Bicholim RCC, 158 all out in 38.2 overs.

(Somnath Panigrahi 86, Umang Gosavi 15, Alam Khan 11 runs.

Manthan Khutkar 4-17, Saiesh Gaonkar 2-17, Maruti Huggi 125).

GPCC and Goa Olympic Association president, Subhash Shirodkar was the chief guest and gave away the prizes in the presence of Manuel Colaco, chairperson, Quepem Municipal Council, Vinod Dhamaskar, former State coach and Gopalrao Naik. Sandeep Naik welcomed and later proposed the vote of thanks.

GFA Second Division: Merces SC v. Young Boys of Tonca, Santa Cruz ground, 4 p.m.

G FA U - 1 4 : C u r t o r i m Gymkhana v. Guardian Angel SC, Curtorim ground; Rossman Cruz Nagoa SC v. Mandopa SC, Nagoa ground; Verna SC v. Snow's FA, Verna ground; Ambelim SC v. Betalbatim SC, Assolna ground. Kick off 4 p.m.

Mahindra Youth Football Challenge: Holy Cross Convent, Siolim v. Our Lady of Grace HS, Bicholim, Duler Stadium, Mapusa; Don Bosco HS, Panjim v. Ideal HS, Taleigao, Don Bosco ground, Panjim; St Andrew’s Institute, Vasco v.

Our Lady of Perpetual Succour HS, Tilak Maidan, Vasco; Infant Jesus HS v. Our Lady of Rosary HS, Fatorda, Margao, Nehru outside ground, Fatorda. Kick off 9.30 a.m.

Aldona Cup soccer: Milagres SC v. St Savio SC, Calangute, Quitula ground, 4.45 p.m.

Merces volleyball: Crown Club, Santa Cruz v. Our Lady of Piety, Navelim, Molloca court, 8 p.m.

Sports Excell will award for the first time Campus Sports Awards to outstanding sportsmen and women, boys and girls studying in schools and colleges and at university.

The awards are being instituted as part of the International Year of the Youth commemorated

by United Nations. Leading sports personalities are expected to make the presentation of awards.

Nominated persons and institutions will be examined on the basis of the benchmarks that are set in three different categories of awards by the jury consisting of an international sports personality of repute, sports administrators of leading Govern-

ment bodies and universities apart from sports journalists.

Nominations have been invited from schools and colleges throughout Goa in the three categories: Best sportsmen award (seniors) in 16 dedicated disciplines for men and women in the college/university category in football, cricket, volleyball, basketball, judo, swimming, handball, kabaddi, kho-kho, table-tennis, badminton, athletics, baseball, taekwondo, boxing and chess. Best sportsmen award (juniors) in 16 dedicated disciplines for boys and girls in the schools/higher secondary category. Best institution award for best school/higher secondary/college/university.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, FEB 16

HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, FEB 16

Candolim Sports Club got the better of Siolim Sodiem SCA 14-13 via the tie-breaker after both teams were involved in a 1-1 draw to move into the quarter-finals of 1st All-Goa inter-village football tournament for Laxmi and Subha memorial trophy sponsored

by Deu S Banaulikar and organised by Nerul Sports Club at Nerul ground on Wednesday.

Candolim shot into the lead in the 20th minute through Roy Das off Kliebber.

Crossing over, Siolim came back strongly and restored parity in the 15th minute. Thereafter, both teams went all out in search of the match winner but in vain.

In the penalties, Candolim kept their nerves to prevail over Siolim 13-12.

The best director of physical education award (male, female) at college and university level and best physical education teacher award (male, female) for schools and higher secondary level will also be presented.

The last date for receiving the nomination forms is February 24 and awards will be presented only if the minimum benchmark is achieved.

The final three nominees will be invited for the awards ceremony to be held on February 28 at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao.

Nomination forms have already been dispatched to schools and colleges, according to Kennedy D’Silva, Ponda. Details can be obtained from Kenbert Rodrigues on 9960920329.

BITS Pilani all set for Spree ’11 HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, FEB 16

BITS Pilani K K Birla Goa Campus will host its annual ‘Spree’ Sports Festival sponsored by Salgaocar Sports Club in association with Netcore, Club Mahindra Holidays, Alienware and Tata Docomo, from February 27 to March 2.

Shirish Nadkarni, well known badminton player, who brought laurels for the country at the World Masters Games in Melbourne, Sydney alongwith Venkatapathy Raju, former cricketer and currently selector of the Indian cricket team will inaugurate the event.

‘Spree Marathon’ will be the opening event on Day 1 that will be held in two categories. fun marathon of 3 kms and full marathon of 9 kms.

A list of outdoor and indoor games like cricket,

for Loyola while Pandurang Palyekar netted for Deepvihar. Loyola keeper Royd Fernandes turned out to be their hero saving two spot kicks.

At Don Bosco ground, Panjim, Chubby Cheeks High School, Pilerne were awarded a walkover as St Clara's High School, Tivim, failed to turn up while at Curtorim ground. Guardian Angel High School were also awarded a walkover as Bethany Convent High School failed to turn up.

Candolim Orlim thrash Sarzora advance

Sports Excel awards HERALD SPORTE DESK PANJIM, FEB 16

shooting prowess but failed to score at full time. In the penalties, Vickson Fernandes and Edison D'Sousa scored for St Joseph while Mark D'Cruz found the mark for St Britto's.

At Tilak Maidan, Vasco, Loyola High School, Margao got the better of Deepvihar High School, Vasco via penalties 4- 1 after a goalless draw.

Ronaldo Mascarenhas, Snayden Medeira, Dilinger Carvalho and Maxon Fernandes scored

football, basketball, chess, carrom, table tennis and badminton will be held. Spree also has in store unconventional features like futsal (5-a-side football), 3BA (3v3 special half-court basketball), gully cricket (narrow lane cricket) and anti-chess, with shuffle, C-pool, mini-tennis, foot-volley and much more.

Various workshops in archery, rappelling and football free styling will also be conducted by professionals in their respective fields. An array of special nights featuring mesmerising performances by renowned artists from all over the globe will end the festival in style.

Spree 2010 witnessed a keen participation from colleges all over India, with 15 teams registering for basketball alone and this time Spree promises to be even more spirited and action-filled.

Orlim Sports Club trounced Sarzora Sports Club 5-0 in GFA’s U14 League at Orlim ground on Wednesday.

Orlim dominated the proceedings from the start and tor-

mented the rival defence.

The highlight of the day were brilliant braces by Jolan Colaco and Megan Cardozo.

M Pereira then added insult to injury just before the finals moments. With this win Orlim have qualified for the play-offs.

Sangolda oust Quitula HERALD SPORTS REPORTER MAPUSA, FEB 16

Sangolda Lightning Sports Club knocked out hosts Quitula Sports Club 2-0 in Aldona Cup soccer at Quitula ground on Wednesday. Sangolda led 1-0 at the breather.

Amar Harlankar headed home

a corner early in the 4th to give Sangolda the lead. Moments later, the Sangolda goalkeeper Washington made a great save to deny Quitula.

After the lemon break, Joseph D'Costa tapped in the rebound after the Quitula custodian saved the initial shot.

Goa take on Kerala HERALD SPORTS REPORTER MAPUSA, FEB 16

The Goa U-15 team will meet Kerala in Mir Iqbal Hussain trophy at Barasat Stadium, Kolkata on Thursday at 2.30 p.m.

Goa won their opening match against Tripura 3-1 and there is a lot of confidence in the camp, but the Goa management believes that their opponents are fielding over age players, which is a big concern.

Agasaim down St Mathew HERALD SPORTS REPORTER MAPUSA, FEB 16

Two goals in the final three minutes of the game, gave Agasaim Youth Club a 2-0 victory over St Mathew Sports Club of Azossim in GFA's

Second Division at DSYA ground, Santa Cruz on Wednesday.

Rudy Godinho punted in for Agasaim in the 87th. A minute later Floyd D'Sousa netted to seal victory for Agasaim.

GOA DIARY Soccer tourney at Corlim

PANJIM (HSD) – Friends Sporting Club, Carambolim will organise their 2nd Friends Sporting soccer tournament for teams from Old Goa, Corlim and Carambolim on February 20 and 27 at Montfort Vocational Training Centre ground, Corlim at 10 a.m.

The winners and runners-up will take home Rs 8,888 and Rs 4,444 respectively. Only top 12 teams will be selected. The last date to submit entries is February 19. Details may be obtained from Seby Dias on 9421555406, Syham Bambolikar on 9881889310 or Benzy Gonsalves on 9975859536.

GFA referees fitness test

PANJIM (HSD) – The GFA will organise a referee’s fitness test at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, Margao on February 20 at 7a.m.

Referees may report at 6.30 a.m.

S Goa women’s festival

MARGAO HC) - The South Goa Women Sports Festival committee in association with SAG will organise their 1st South Goa District level women sports festival on March 5 and 6 at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda.

The festival will host various disciplines - table tennis, badminton, kabaddi, kho-kho, volleyball and athletics – 100m, 200m, long jump, high jump, shot put, discuss throw, javelin throw and 4x100m relay. Women between 18 to 30 years and above 30 years of age and hailing from South Goa are eligible.

Levinson Martins, Deputy Collector and president of South Goa District level committee said the festival will give an opportunity to women to showcase their talent. He also requested women to participate in large numbers. Also present were Johnson Fernandes, Deputy Collector, Margao.

www.oheraldo.in

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GOA, THURSDAY, 17 FEBRUARY, 2011

ICC chief hits out at Butt TV role

C H Cup E Dcalendar U L E CricketSWorld

ICC CRICKET WORLD CUP 2011

AFP DUBAI, FEB 16

February 19 to April 2

Date

Teams

Venue

Time (IST)

TO BE CONFIRMED

Group stage February 19 20 20 21 22 23 24 25 25 26 27 28 28

India New Zealand Sri Lanka Australia England Pakistan South Africa Australia Bangladesh Pakistan India Zimbabwe West Indies

v v v v v v v v v v v v v

Bangladesh Kenya Canada Zimbabwe Netherlands Kenya West Indies New Zealand Ireland Sri Lanka England Canada Netherlands

1400 Dhaka, Bangladesh 0930 Chennai, India Hambantota, Sri Lanka 1430 1430 Ahmedabad, India Nagpur, India 1430 Hambantota, Sri Lanka 1430 New Delhi, India 1430 Nagpur, India 0930 Dhaka, Bangladesh 1400 Colombo, Sri Lanka 1430 1430 Bangalore,India India Kolkata, Nagpur, India 0930 New Delhi, India 1430

March 1 2 3 3 4 4 5 6 6 7 8 9 10 11 11 12 13 13 14 14 15 16 17 18 18 19 19 20 20

Sri Lanka England South Africa Pakistan New Zealand Bangladesh Australia South Africa India Canada Pakistan India Sri Lanka West Indies Bangladesh India New Zealand Australia Bangladesh Pakistan South Africa Australia England Netherlands New Zealand Bangladesh Australia Zimbabwe India

v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v

Kenya Ireland Netherlands Canada Zimbabwe West Indies Sri Lanka England Ireland Kenya New Zealand Netherlands Zimbabwe Ireland England South Africa Canada Kenya Netherlands Zimbabwe Ireland Canada West Indies Ireland Sri Lanka South Africa Pakistan Kenya West Indies

1430 Colombo, Sri Lanka Bangalore, India 1430 Mohali, India 0930 Colombo, Sri Lanka 1430 Ahmedabad, India 0930 Dhaka, Bangladesh 1430 Colombo, Sri Lanka 1430 Chennai, India 0930 Bangalore, India 1430 New Delhi, India 1430 Kandy, Sri Lanka 1430 New Delhi, India 1430 Kandy, Sri Lanka 1430 0930 Mohali, India Chittagong, Bangladesh1430 Nagpur, India 1430 Mumbai, India 0930 Bangalore, India 1430 Chittagong, Bangladesh0900 Kandy, Sri Lanka 1430 Kolkata, India 1430 Bangalore, India 1430 Chennai, India 1430 Kolkata, India 0930 Mumbai, India 1430 Dhaka, Bangladesh 0900 Colombo, Sri Lanka 1430 Kolkata, India 0930 1430 Chennai, India

A1 A2 A3 A4

v v v v

B4 B3 B2 B1

Dhaka, Bangladesh Ahmedabad, India Dhaka, Bangladesh Colombo, Sri Lanka

1400 1430 1400 1430

Winner C Winner D

v v

Winner E Winner F

Colombo, Sri Lanka Mohali, India

1430 1430

Winner A

v

Winner B

Mumbai, India

1430

Quarterfinals 23 C 24 D 25 E 26 F

Semifinals 29 A 30 B

Finals April 2

GROUP A

GROUP B

AUSTRALIA: Ricky Ponting (captain), Michael Clarke, Doug Bollinger, Brad Haddin, John Hastings, Nathan Hauritz, David Hussey, Mike Hussey, Callum Ferguson, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, Tim Paine, Steve Smith, Shaun Tait, Shane Watson, Cameron White.

SRI LANKA: Kumar Sangakkara (captain), Mahela Jayawardene, Upul Tharanga, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Thilan Samaraweera, Chamara Silva, Chamara Kapugedera , Angelo Mathews, Thisara Perera, Nuwan Kulasekara, Lasith Malinga, Dilhara Fernando, Muttiah Muralitharan, Ajantha Mendis, Rangana Herath.

PAKISTAN: Shahid Afridi (captain), Mohammad Hafeez, Ahmed Shehzad, Kamran Akmal, Younis Khan, Misbah-ul-Haq, Asad Shafiq, Umar Akmal, Abdul Razzaq, Kieron Pollard, Saeed Ajmal, Shoaib Akhtar, Umar Gul, Wahab Riaz, Junaid Khan.

NEW ZEALAND: Daniel Vettori (captain), Hamish Bennett, James Franklin, Martin Guptill, Jamie How, Brendon McCullum, Nathan McCullum, Kyle Mills, Jacob Oram, Jesse Ryder, Tim Southee, Scott Styris, Ross Taylor, Kane Williamson, Luke Woodcock.

ZIMBABWE: Elton Chigumbura (captain), Regis Chakabva, Charles Coventry, Graeme Cremer, Craig Ervine, Greg Lamb, Shingi Masakadza, Chris Mpofu, Ray Price, Ed Rainsford, Tatenda Taibu, Brendan Taylor, Prosper Utseya, Sean Williams, Tino Mawoyo, Sean Ervine.

KENYA: Jimmy Kamande (captain), Seren Waters, Alex Obanda, David Obuya, Collins Obuya, Steve Tikolo, Tamnay Mishra, Rakep Patel, Morris Ouma, Thomas Odoyo, Nehemiah Odhiambo, Elijah Otieno, Peter Ongondo, Shem Ngoche, James Ngoche.

CANADA: Ashish Bagai (captain), Rizwan Cheema, Harvir Baidwan, Nitish Kumar, Hiral Patel, Tyson Gordon, Henry Osinde, John Davison, Ruvindu Gunasekera, Parth Desai, Karl Whatham, Khurram Chohan, Jimmy Hansra, Zubin Surkari, Balaji Rao, Hamza Tariq.

INDIA: Mahendra Singh Dhoni (captain), Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Virat Kohli,Yusuf Pathan, Harbhajan Singh, Ravichandran Ashwin, Piyush Chawla, Zaheer Khan, Munaf Patel, Ashish Nehra, Shantakumaran Sreesanth.

SOUTH AFRICA: Graeme Smith (captain), Hashim Amla, Johan Botha, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Faf du Plessis, Colin Ingram, Jacques Kallis, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Robin Peterson, Dale Steyn, Imran Tahir, Lonwabo Tsotsobe, Morne van Wyk. ENGLAND: Andrew Strauss (captain), Jimmy Anderson, Ian Bell, Tim Bresnan, Stuart Broad, Paul Collingwood, Eoin Morgan, Kevin Pietersen, Matt Prior, Ajmal Shahzad, Graeme Swann, James Tredwell, Jonathan Trott, Luke Wright, Michael Yardy.

WEST INDIES: Darren Sammy (captain), Adrian Barath, Carlton Baugh Jr., Sulieman Benn, Darren Bravo, Dwayne Bravo, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Chris Gayle, Nikita Miller, Kieron Pollard, Ravi Rampaul, Kemar Roach, Andre Russell, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Devon Smith.

BANGLADESH: Shakib Al Hasan (captain), Tamim Iqbal, Imrul Kayes, Shariar Nafees, Zunaed Siddique, Mohammad Ashraful, Raqibul Hassan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riad, Abdur Razzak, Naeem Islam, Shafiul Islam, Suhrawardi Shuvo, Rubel Hossain, Nazmul Hossain.

IRELAND: William Porterfield (captain), Andre Botha, Alex Cusack, George Dockrell, Trent Johnston, Nigel Jones, Ed Joyce, John Mooney, Kevin O'Brien, Niall O'Brien, Boyd Rankin, Paul Stirling, Albert van der Merwe, Gary Wilson, Andrew White.

NETHERLANDS: Peter Borren (captain), Wesley Barresi, Mudassar Bukhari, Atse Buurman, Tom Cooper, Tom de Grooth, Alexei Kervezee, Bradley Kruger, Bernard Loots, Adeel Raja, Pieter Seelaar, Eric Szwarczynski, Ryan ten Doeschate, Berend Westdijk, Bas Zuiderent, Bas Zuiderent.

International Cricket Council (ICC) chief executive Haroon Lorgat has slammed the appointment of banned former Pakistan captain Salman Butt as a television pundit during the World Cup. So incensed are the global governing body, they have asked the lawyer who was chairman of the tribunal that banned Butt to determine whether his employment by Pakistan's Urdu language Channel 5 contravenes the terms of the opening batsman's 10-year ban, five of which have been suspended.

Lorgat, in a statement issued after an ICC executive board meeting here on Wednesday, said: "The Board, having a zero

tolerance attit u d e t o w a rd s corruption, expressed disappointment at the decision by a minor Pakistan television channel, which has no relationship with the ICC, to employ the suspended Mr Salman Butt as a studio pundit during the World Cup." Butt, when his TV role was announced earlier this month, told AFP: "I have signed a contract with a television channel to do expert commentary.

"As I am not playing in the

Newcastle sink Birmingham AFP LonDon, FEB 16

newcastle scored their first win since the departure of striker Andy Carroll on Tuesday, winning 2-0 at Birmingham with a goal in each half from Peter Lovenkrands and Leon Best.

Lovenkrands opened the scoring for the visitors after only two minutes, sliding in to meet a low cross from Jonas Gutierrez at the near post.

Best made sure of the points after pouncing early in the second half as Birmingham crashed to their first defeat in six matches. newcastle's Premier League campaign has been blown off course since the stunning 35 million pound transfer of Carroll to Liverpool at the end of the

January transfer window.

Alan Pardew's side had picked up only two points from a possible nine since Carroll headed to Anfield.

However, they always had the upper hand over Birmingham on Tuesday, with Jose Enrique marauding effectively down the left flank and midfield duo Joey Barton and Kevin nolan dominating the middle of the park.

The win sees newcastle move up one spot in table to 10th, leaving the Magpies within touching distance of a possible European spot.

The defeat left Birmingham hovering just above the drop-zone as they prepare for the League Cup final against Arsenal on February 27.

event I thought it was worth participating as an expert," he added.

The 26-yearold, who played 78 oDIs for Pakistan, scoring 2,725 runs, said he could no reason why hoped t h e Pa k i s t a n Cricket Board (PCB) and the ICC would object to his new

role.

"I don't see any reason for objection to it as it does not come under their jurisdiction."

But Lorgat made it clear on Wednesday the ICC did object.

"We are not satisfied with this appointment and we have written to Tribunal chairman Michael Beloff QC to enquire whether this could be viewed as a breach against the terms of his suspended sentence," the South African said.

Butt, together with pace bowlers Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamer, was banned this month following spot-fixing charges related to the Lord's Test against England last August.

Britain's news of the World newspaper, following a 'sting' operation, alleged the three players had colluded to deliberately bowl no-balls in a spotfixing betting scam organised

by British-based agent Mazhar Majeed.

Crouch stuns Milan, Raul haunts Valencia Valencia 1 Schalke 1 AC Milan 0 Tottenham 1 AFP PARIS, FEB 16

Tottenham shocked seven-times European champions AC Milan 1-0 at the San Siro on Tuesday with Peter Crouch firing the only goal on a superb night for the north Londoners.

Spurs had lost by the odd goal in seven to holders Inter Milan in an extraordinary group phase encounter at the same venue had to make do without that night's hat-trick hero Gareth Bale owing to injury.

But even in his absence Spurs turned in a supremely professional showing which belied the fact this is their first season of Champions League fare.

After ensuring they kept things tight at the back - re-

membering the lesson of their nightmare opening half against Inter, Harry Redknapp's side geared themselves for a rapier strike and Crouch was on hand to fire home after a brilliant surging run by Aaron Lennon ten minutes from time.

The win means the English Premier League outfit will be favourites to finish the Italians off at White Hart Lane in three weeks time.

The game ended with ugly scenes as Milan hardman Gennaro Gattuso appeared to aim a headbutt at Spurs assistant manager and former Milan player Joe Jordan, igniting a scuffle.

In the day's other match, Valencia were frustrated as former Real Madrid striker Raul, who scored against them in the 2000 final, came back to haunt his countrymen.

Chennai to play Kolkata in opener l IPL-4 to have new play-off system

PTI MUMBAI, FEB 16

Reigning champions Chennai Super Kings will lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders to kick off the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League which will see a new play-off system, according to the schedule released by the IPL governing body today.

The schedule for the 10-team league is, however, subject to final approval in view of the state elections scheduled to be held around that time.

"We are aware that the state assembly elections are planned in a number of the host cities.

We are consulting the authorities and will confirm the schedule as soon as we are able to do so.

"In the meantime we have decided to release the provisional schedule to satisfy the massive level of interest in IPL across the

Armstrong retires AFP AUSTIn, FEB 16

Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong on Wednesday announced his retirment from professional cycling. "Today, I am announcing my retirement from professional cycling in order to devote myself full-time to my family, to the fight against cancer," Armstrong said.

country," said Chirayu Amin, chairman of the IPL governing body.

Chennai's M A Chidambaram Stadium would host the opening encounter on April 8 as well as the final on May 28 along with one play-off qualifier while Mumbai would host the second qualifier as well as the lone eliminator in the new format of the Twenty20 league.

As per the schedule, the 10 teams -- including the two new franchises Kochi and Pune would play a total of 74 matches at 13 venues spread over 51 days.

To qualify for the final, the top four teams in the league will have to negotiate a new play-off system that has been introduced for the 2011 season.

The teams finishing first and second in the League stage will compete in the first play-off game, or qualifier 1 with the

winner progressing directly to the final, while the loser would have a second chance of reaching the title contest via the qualifier 2 play-off match.

The teams finishing 3rd and 4th in the League stage will compete in the eliminator – the winner going forward to Qualifier 2 (where they will meet the losing team from Qualifier 1) while the loser will play no further part in the tournament and would finish in fourth position.

The winner of qualifier 2 would progress to the final, where it will play the winner of qualifier 1.

The new format lends more significance to each of the four IPL play-off matches. There is a clear advantage for the teams finishing in the top two league positions, giving an added impetus for the teams to fight for the top positions in the league.

overall, the new format will provide fans with even greater enjoyment and excitement.

As reigning champions, Chennai Super Kings have the right to host the opening match of the season, and to provide the venue for the final.

The dates and venues for the play-off matches are: May 24: Qualifier 1 (1st v 2nd) - Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

May 25: Eliminator (3rd v 4th) Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai May 27: Qualifier 2 ((winner of Eliminator vs loser of Qualifier 1), M A Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai May 28: Final (winner of Qualifier 1 vs winner of Qualifier 2), M A Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

The two finalists along with the losing team from Qualifier 2 would earn berths to play in the 2011 Champions T20 League to be played later in the year.

‘Saqlain hid wife in cupboard’ Man City held AFP KARACHI, FEB 16

Former Pakistan spin bowler Saqlain Mushtaq revealed Wednesday he smuggled his wife into his hotel room and hid her in a cupboard the day before the 1999 World Cup final in London.

"It was a double trouble for all of us because the management

had barred us from keeping our wives with us and on the other hand people accused us of going out with girls, so I breached the code by asking my wife to stay with me," Saqlain told AFP. Saqlain said he was forced to keep his wife with him as a lot of people accused the Pakistani players of going out with girls.

europa league AGENCIES SALonIKA, FEB 16

Aris Salonika maintained their 41-year unbeaten home record in European competition by holding Manchester City to a 0 - 0 d r a w i n t h e i r E u ro p a League last-32 first leg on Tuesday.

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Ton-up Dhoni fires India to victory Pacers told to hold on for WC: Dhoni PTI CHENNAI, FEB 16

Indian players celebrate the wicket of New Zealand's Brendon McCullum during a warm-up match in Chennai on Wednesday.

AFP CHENNAI, FEB 16

Mahendra Singh Dhoni smashed a blazing century to set up India's crushing 117-run victory over New Zealand in a World Cup warm-up match on Wednesday.

The Indian skipper cracked three sixes and 11 fours in a 64ball 108 not out to help his team post an imposing 360-5 and virtually bat New Zealand out of the day-night match in Chennai.

New Zealand were bowled out for 243 after a brisk 94-run stand for the opening wicket between Brendon McCullum (58) and Martin Guptill (38) to suffer their first defeat in two practice matches.

Jesse Ryder (32), Nathan McCullum (29 not out) and Scott Styris (20) were the other main contributors.

Indian spinners, who played a big role in their team's win over defending champions Australia in a warm-up match on

Broad saves England from battling Canada AFP DHAKA, FEB 16

Stuart Broad grabbed a fivewicket haul as England doused late resistance from big-hitting Rizwan Cheema to carve out a narrow 16-run victory over Canada in a World Cup warmup game on Wednesday.

Rizwan threatened to take the game away with his explosive 70-ball 93 before Broad struck to remove the batsman and restrict Canada to 227 off 46.1 overs in reply to England's 243 all out at the Fatullah stadium in Dhaka.

The paceman, making a surprise comeback after a stomach injury, finished with 5-37 to add to the efforts of Matt Prior (78) and Jonathan Trott (57) with the bat after England won the toss and elected to bat.

Sunday, again struck it rich as they shared seven wickets.

Leg-spinner Piyush Chawla, off-spinner Harbhajan Singh and part-time spinner Yuvraj Singh each took two wickets, while off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin bagged one.

Dhoni and Suresh Raina (50) earlier gave a superb display of power-hitting to help their side set a stiff target, plundering 124 runs for the fifth wicket off just 56 balls.

Raina hit three sixes and four boundaries in a 26-ball knock.

Dhoni's best came when he smashed paceman Jacob Oram for five successive fours, while Raina also punished the same bowler as he hit three sixes in an over. Oram conceded 70 runs in his nine overs.

The stage for the closingovers onslaught was set by Gautam Gambhir (89) and Virat Kohli (59), who put on 106 for the third wicket after India lost openers Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar for 42 runs.

Record-breaking batsman Tendulkar, who recently missed the last three one-day internationals in South Africa due to a hamstring injury and was rested against Australia, contributed just 17.

His eagerly awaited return lasted 23 balls before he was deceived by a slower one from paceman Tim Southee and bowled.

India suffered another blow when hard-hitting Sehwag (23)

was bowled by an Oram delivery that kept low, but Gambhir and Kohli steadied the innings with their sensible knocks.

Gambhir hit 11 fours in his 85-ball stay while Kohli hit seven boundaries in a 68-ball innings.

India open their World Cup campaign against Bangladesh in Dhaka on Saturday, while New Zealand take on Kenya in their first match the following day in Chennai.

India: V Sehwag b Oram 23, S Tendulkar b Southee 17, G Gambhir c How b Southee 89, V Kohli c B McCullum b Oram 59, MS Dhoni not out 108, S Raina c Taylor b Mills 50, Y Pathan not out 3. Extras: 11. Total: 360 for 5. Fall of wickets: 1-35, 2-42, 3-148, 4-216, 5-340. Bowling: Mills 10-1-81-1, Southee 10-1-67-2, Oram 9-1-70-2, Franklin 20-17-0, N. McCullum 10-0-61-0, Woodcock 5-0-31-0, Styris 4-0-29-0.

New Zealand: M Guptill c Dhoni b Ashwin 38, B McCullum run out 58, J Ryder c Yuvraj b Harbhajan 32, R Taylor c Kohli b Harbhajan 5, J Franklin lbw b Chawla 0, S Styris b Chawla 20, J How c Patel b Yuvraj 15, J Oram st Dhoni b Yuvraj 12, N McCullum not out 29, L Woodcock b Nehra 9, K Mills b Nehra 2. Extras: 23. Total: 243 all out. Fall of wickets: 1-94, 2118, 3-140, 4-141, 5-147, 6-173, 7-197, 8-202, 9-213, 10-243. Bowling: Nehra 7.1-0-55-2, Sreesanth 5-0-38-0, Patel 3-0-19-0, Ashwin 7-0-30-1, Yuvraj 9-0-33-2, Harbhajan 4-0-17-2, Chawla 8-0-39-2.

Match referee Broad asked to leave field by cops AGENCIES COLOMBO, FEB 16

The International Cricket Council is at loggerheads with Sri Lankan authorities over "security arrangements" that almost saw ICC match referee Chris Broad thrown out of a warm-up match.

Broad was ordered out of the field by police and security who had no clue about Tuesday's warm-up game between Sri Lanka and West Indies.

Even several other ICC officials were not allowed access to the R.Premadasa stadium by over zealous security staff who also prevented groundsman from doing their work.

The ICC said renovations at the stadium meant new access arrangements had to be made and it

appeared that the security staff had no idea on how to handle the situation.

"We need to ensure that, in future, those arrangements are worked through thoroughly and also communicated to the relevant stakeholders," the ICC said in a statement.

"We will seek to do that in time for the next match at the R Premadasa Stadium on February 26.

"Sri Lankan media lashed out at the local authorities for messing up arrangements at the warm-up match. Some security staff also prevented press photographers taking pictures of players.

"We did not have this type of stringent security even during the wars between government forces and LTTE," a local sports journalist said.

Sachin not captain material: Azhar AGENCIES NEW DELHI, FEB 16

Former India skipper Mohammed Azharuddin on Wednesday lashed out at the media for dragging him into an unnecessary controversy on the basis of some ‘insignificant’ comments, but stood by his opinion that Sachin Tendulkar did not have it in him to succeed as a captain.

Azharuddin said it was not only him but ‘millions’ of people who do not consider Tendulkar a good captain.

"If I don't consider Sachin as a good captain then there are millions who too have their reservations on the issue.

Sachin himself hasn't sought the captaincy since he left it a decade ago. Why when Azharuddin says it becomes such a big issue. Is it because I keep to myself and don't like shouting from the rooftop?" asked Azharuddin.

"I see myself being dragged into a controversy. I can see my plain and simple approach to life has again opened me up to motivated

attacks. People are looking for hidden meanings where there is none. " ... leave inane comments as it actually are -- just inane and certainly not worthy of a controversy," he said, while reacting to reports which suggested that he and Tendulkar did not get along well during their playing days.

The controversial former captain also said that he has not kept track of his former team-mates, including Tendulkar, as he has other things to do in life and he did not want to pretend that he was too much involved with the game.

"Consider the facts. If Sachin and I haven't kept up to each other it isn't an earth-shattering news. After all, so many associations and relationships do drift apart after a while.

It happens within a family. It isn't as if I alone am to be blamed for it," he reasoned.

"The same is true for other former colleagues. I have moved on in life and have they done. We are busy with

our lives. Why do we have to keep up the pretence? Cricket was a splendid chapter of my life; indeed it made me what I am today. However cricket alone isn't the only flavour of life.

Sometimes indeed we tend to take sports too seriously and life too casually," he said.

Azharuddin, who retired in 2000 after 15 years of international cricket, said he has had his share of glory and limelight as player and captain of Indian cricket team and he is now happy to pursue a political career.

"All these years, I haven't hankered for attention and publicity.

My cricket days are over and I am happy attending to my constituency and campaigning for Congress Party.

I don't say or do things to attract publicity. I have had my fill of fame and attention -- 99 Tests and 334 one-dayers; 47 Tests and 174 oneday matches as captain. And incidentally I won more matches than I lost as skipper in both formats of game.

Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni today defended the lessthan-impressive performance by his pacers in the two warm-up games, saying that they have been told to preserve themselves for the main World Cup. "The pacers definitely have to improve. They are currently not able to give 100 per cent in practice because we have asked our seamers to not go all out, and save themselves for the main games," Dhoni said after the match.

"May be that is what is reflecting in their performances. But hopefully, they will do well once the tournament starts and they put that extra effort," he said.

"It was a difficult wicket to rotate strike but we have hitters down the order, and were able to achieve a total that was above par on this track," he said.

"In the past few games I have been in a hurry, but my game is different. I take my time, and then like to stay till the end for the slog overs.

"You have got to remind yourself of your strengths. Good to see most of the batsmen getting runs. Crucial for the part-time spinners to bowl well when you go with only four bowlers," he added.

His New Zealand counterpart Ross Taylor heaped praise on Dhoni and said it was the Indian skipper who took the game a w a y f ro m t h e m w i t h h i s blitzkrieg.

"Got to give credit to Dhoni, he took the game away from us," he said.

Taylor said his spinners need to improve as they would play an important role in the tournament.

Listless Akhtar worries Pakistan AFP DHAKA, FEB 16

Pakistan coach Waqar Younis has admitted worries over mercurial Shoaib Akhtar's poor form ahead of the World Cup that has left the team's pace attack without a spearhead.

"Shoaib is not in touch at the moment," the fast bowling great said, when asked why Akhtar had not bowled in Tuesday's warm-up match against Bangladesh at the Sher-e-Bangla

stadium in Dhaka.

Waqar hoped Akhtar will prove his mettle against England on Friday. "If he gets it right against England in the next game, he is

obviously our number one choice," said Waqar. "At the moment, we have a slight problem with the new ball, but there is still some time to go."

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Fashion

GOA’S HEARTBEAT

Does Goa have a Sense of Fashion? that fashion is not as experimental or trendy as in the metros, but Goans have their individual style. It may not be runaway material, but its touches of individuality and religious-based influences are refreshing.

On the flipside, designing also comes from within a confinement of styles, as has for centuries – traditional and beautiful. In Goa, tailors state that around the time of a religious festival, feasts and during the wedding season, they are rushed with orders. Customers ask for designs they had thought up or what they choose from a catalogue most tailors have lying around. Stitched clothes are preferred over purchasing. This could also be viewed as designing, within a framework, but designing nonetheless. Goa has an array of such designs among various communities of the Goan population.

Foreign tourists are com-

Photo by Manish Gupta

Goa is host to a number of fashion shows. The tourist destination tag sure comes in handy when persons of the fashion fraternity want to host their shows in Goa. But what about the Goan populace? What is their style statement? Do they have a fashion sense? Herald delves

BY NOMRATHA FERNANDES HERALD FEATURES hen it comes to fashion and appearances, the Goan youth are quite high on the scale. They take it quite seriously in the context of fashion trends, grooming and personal style. The middle-aged too are placing increasing importance on the above in what is changing the fashion sense in the state. Being fashionable is not only limited to those in college; rather, the concept has spread to a wider circle – working persons, housewives, kids and yes, even men. The media has played a definite role in the shaping of this fashion sense for the people of the state. Also, the last ten years have seen major labels – both Indian and Western – set shop here. Besides, a wide variety of clothes, accessories, shoes and other fashion-related items have increased in number and type, only giving us choice. The fashionable Goan now has a sense of the latest trend and a variety to choose from, making it easier for us to exhibit a certain style.

Speaking to members of the public who acknowledge fashion and the latest trends, it can be concluded that style statements are borrowed from magazines and television. Others pick up elements of fashion from the people around, while a few mix and match to come out with something of their own, which probably would be another trend altogether.

The work and business dynamic of designing as an individual designer, where your name are your clothes – the “Who are you wearing?” “Wendell Rodricks” concept – has not taken root in the state, say small time designers. This statement is supported by students pursuing diploma courses in fashion designing.

Small-time fashion designers with self-created business say that the concept of buying a label has still to catch up in Goa. It works well within members of the elite class, but beyond that, not so well.

Maybe it is about balancing the practicality of the pricing of designer Photo by Andrew Pegado wear with the exclusivity of its defortable with the blend of Western styles with sign. Who would want an A-line exclusive Goan dressing. The familiarity of the West dress that costs Rupees two to three and the novelty of Goa, expressed through the fashion sense of the thousand when they can buy something similar for Rs 700 to Rs people, is something they wouldn’t witness in the other states of 800? Instead, people would stop and gaze at a uniquely designed India. Indian tourists find this exceptional as well. Besides other dress in the glass window of a designer wear showroom. And whether factors, in some cases, it is this that keeps tourists boomeranging they buy it or not, the very fact that it held them for those minutes back to Goa. gradually solicits a change in fashion tastes.

In conclusion, it can be deduced Small time designers like Andrea Dias are attempting to make a that we Goans are happy in the skin few tweaks. She says, “It was just 23 partywear garments for my we are in. Fashion trends come first collection, all started from scratch. It was a risk. But I want to and go and we pick and choose spice things up here in Goa. I want to bring in a change in perception what suits us best while combintowards fashion.” ing it with touches of individuality.

Yes, it is ascertained that the market for designer wear in Goa is We are not a slave to collections, not like that in the metros. It does not take a fashion expert to state seasons or labels.

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Fashions fade, style is eternal -Yves Saint Laurent

Encouraging the Revival of Pottery In a bid to breathe life into Goa’s pottery industry, Sunaparanta – Goa Centre for the Arts has organised a pottery workshop for adults and children. The workshop, held by Sylvia Kerkar, teaches different handwork techniques, evoking an interest and love for pottery in the learners. Herald find out more

BY DOLCY D’CRUZ HERALD FEATURES ottery was one of the traditional professions in Goa. In the olden times when electricity was a distant realisation, people survived on clay items to store their food and even cooked meals in some. The potters slogged on the potter’s wheel, shaping up utensils for the villagers. Now, with the gradual change to modern living, several potters have given up their trade to take up different jobs. This unfortunately has seen a decrease in pottery and the aesthetic beauty of clay items.

With the aim of reviving the understanding of pottery, Sunaparanta – Goa Centre for the Arts has announced their second batch in pottery workshop for adults and children by Sylvia Kerkar. The workshop, which commenced on February 16, has the students learning different handwork techniques in terracotta like coiling, pinching, slab building and even bead making using red terracotta clay. The classes, held from 4:30pm to 6:30pm, train the students in creating their own clay items like wind chimes, candle stands and coffee mugs and bowls.

“This is the second batch that we are starting at Sunaparanta; the first one had a very good response with the classes filled to the seat limit. People in the first batch were taught two techniques, pinching and slab building; this class will have more techniques. I will train the students pinching, coiling and slab building and towards the end of the classes, I will give them practical experience of working on a wheel. Sunaparanta will be providing the students with the clay but those who are interested in practising at home can always go to Bicholim and ask for red terracotta clay.

Terracotta is good to start with for beginners as ceramic is more complex. The classes will be held every Wednesday for five weeks,” says Sylvia Kerkar, a contemporary ceramic artist who has her studio in Nachinola.

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Fighting Female Foeticide

Justina Costa, an assistant at Sunaparanta, informs, “The workshop has got a great response and pottery is a very interesting topic. So far we have received 20 students for the workshop and the registration is still open for future classes.”

'Eighth Wonder of the World' found under a New Zealand Lake

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In your view, how has India progressed he story begins with a young girl accused of with regards to issues like gender differenmurder and goes on to explore tiation? subjects that are evidently close I think that while on the surface things to London-based Indian author seem to be changing, there is still a Kishwar Desai’s heart. Kishwar opens up strong preference for sons and people about the book and the emotional still regard daughters as a burden. Reimpact that led to its inception. cently, even a woman judge What is the central theme of Witness of the Supreme Court – a body the Night? Tell us about the book and known for upholding usually its plot. liberal views – stated that her The book is set in Punjab and is unmarried daughters were ‘liabout a young girl, Durga, accused abilities’. Media has been playof killing her family members. A soing a role but unless we can cial worker, Simran Singh, believes change mindsets, this prejuin the girl’s innocence and decides dice will remain. The only to investigate the circumstances As a media person in India, Kishwar Desai routinely thing which will change this leading to the murders. She discovcame across cases of female infanticide and foeticide is economic independence. ers a world of lies and prejudice where women are routinely ill– issues which affected her deeply enough to want We have to have specially tartreated from birth. That is, if they to ‘write a novel that would engage people on an geted schemes which will bring more and more women are allowed to live at all. As it’s a emotional level’. Enid Parker talks to the author into the mainstream as workcrime novel, I don’t want to give away about Witness the Night and the story behind it ers. more than that!

How do you remain connected What inspired this novel?

In my years working in media in India — as a producer, anchor, TV journalist, with India now that you are based in the UK? How does it influence your works? and the head of a TV channel — I found myself constantly coming across I had lived in India for a long while, and worked in India as well, so many cases of female foeticide and infanticide, particularly in North India. It was connections still remain. Witness the Night was entirely based on my personal very disturbing – especially as I found people reading these news reports experiences in India in the last decade or so, the people I had met. All the and taking it all for granted. Even if there was a dowry death or a case of events in the book are also based on real life happenings with an imaginary domestic violence, Indian society seemed unmoved. There was and is so narrative. My parents live in Delhi and we have a house there as well as one much cruelty against women which is carried out without anyone being in Goa, and I also have a lot of writing work, so the connection is always upset about it – except the victim and perhaps her close family or friends. there.

I wanted to write a novel which would engage people at an emotional Any plans to write a second novel? level. I believe that if something impacts you emotionally you remember it Yes, I am already working on three different novels. But first I have to and may even want to do something about it. You develop an empathy to- complete the sequel to Witness the Night, as it is being turned into a book.

(Courtesy: Khaleej Times) wards the victim. That was the inspiration, I guess.

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ew Zealand's first tourist attraction, dubbed the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’ by international travellers in the late 19th century, has been rediscovered 125 years after it was buried by one of the biggest-ever volcanic eruptions.

New Zealand and US scientists said they found the Pink and White Terraces, 60 metres below Lake Rotomahana, 30 km from Rotorua in the heart of the North Island's geothermal region. The terraces, described at the time as a delicately-coloured fan-like staircase of rock covered with shades of pink and white silica rising like a giant wedding cake from the shores of the lake, disappeared when nearby Mount Tarawera blew up June 10, 1886.

The five-hour eruption split the 1,111-metre-high mountain in two, sending ash and lava over thousands of square kilometres of countryside, completely burying three villages and killing an estimated 153 people. Hundreds fled for their lives as smoke rose 10 km into the air. Lake Rotomahana ('warm lake' in the Maori tongue) was emptied by the blast, only to be enlarged many times when it refilled, with hot springs bubbling up from up its shoreline and steam issuing from its banks, but with no sign of the largest silica terraces in the world.

Scientists from the state GNS Science Organisation and America's Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, said they found the part of the terraces while mapping the floor of the eight-square kilometre lake and investigating its geothermal system.

Sonar images taken by two autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) showed a pink-coloured, crescent-shaped, grimy staircase rising 1-2 metres from the lake floor for about 70 metres. Project leader Cornel de Ronde, of GNS Science, said: 'The first sonar image gave a hint of a terraced structure so we scanned the area twice more and we are now 95 per cent certain we are seeing the bottom two tiers of the Pink Terraces.'

He said there was no sign of the larger White Terraces, which were either destroyed during the eruption, or are still concealed under thick sediment that the side-scan sonar signal could not penetrate.

(Courtesy: IANS)

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Thursday, 17 Feb 2011

WHAT’S UP IN GOA??

Aparant Maand 2011,organised

by Goa Handicrafts, Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation Limited is underway till February 2011 at Kranti Maidan, Ponda. Call 2228157 or 2225328.

Third Konknni (Romi Lipi) Literary and Cultural Sammelan, organised by the Dalgado Konknni Academy will be held on February 19 and 20 at Kala Academy, Panjim. Call 2420452.

‘Goan Kaleidoscope 2011’ - a group show of 35 contemporary Goan artists, organised by Gallery Gitanjali will open on February 19 at 6.30pm at Gallery Gitanjali, Fontainhas-Panjim.

The works will remain on display till March 5 from 9am to 9pm at Gallery Gitanjali.

Visit www.gallerygitanjali.com.

Call 9823572035.

A Solo Singing Competition,organised by Omkar Cultural Association will be held on February 19 at 5.30pm in Dhargal. Call 9823306652 or 9673997188.

SEQC’s Twenty Paces – Solo Knock-Out Quiz Finals will be held on February 20. Call 2452805-10. Email prog@incentgoa.com ‘Sunset Art Programme’, an innovative art programme for children, organised by Kala Academy will be held every Sunday from 5pm to 6.30pm for 6 weeks at the Jetty. Call 2420452.

‘Effects of promoting obscenity and sexuality for tourism’, a workshop organised by Asha Human RightsAssociation (AFRRA) will be held on February 26 from 3.30pm to 6pm at Institute Piedade Hall II, Panjim. E-mail trustasha@yahoo.co.in. Call 2256445 or 9822166876.

‘Right to Information’, a workshop organised by Asha Family Responsibilities and Rights Association and Calangute United

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HOROSCOPE (Social and Cultural Club) will be held on February 26 from 10:30am to 12:30pm at St. Alex Church Complex Hall, Calangute, Bardez. Email trustasha@yahoo.co.in. Call 2256445, 9881064985 or 9822166876.

Ghar Asaave Gharaa Saarkhe, a Marathi musical programme in association with the Department of Art and Culture and Parampara Pratishthanam a cultural organization will be held on February 16 at Kala Academy, Panjim. Call 2420452.

11th Saraswat Food Cultural Festival, organised by Goa Saraswat Samaj will be held from February 25 to 27 at the Panjim gymkhana, Panjim.

Pitch Black Project III, organised

by Creatiwitty Works will be held on February 17 at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Fatorda.

‘Chhota Scientist’, a state level science competition for students of Std VI to VIII on February 26, organised by Shiroda Higher Secondary Institute, Shiroda and the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Goa will take place on February 26 at the Old GMC, Panjim.

Registration is open. Call 9890505069.

‘Political System of Germany and India: A Comparison’,will be the topic of the lecture and interactive session by Professor Clemens Herbert Jürgenmeyer. It will be held on February 24 from 6pm onwards at the International Centre Goa, Dona Paula. Call 9765404391 or 2452805-10. E-mail prog@incentgoa.com.

‘BavarIndia’, a photography exhibition by Peter Müller and Walter Hoffmann will be held from February 19 to 26 at Kerkar Art Complex, Calangute. It is presented by Dhoomimal Gallery, New Delhi and the Consulate of the Federal Republic of Germany in Goa. ‘The 2nd State Tribal Youth Fest’, organised by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs will be held on February 19 and 20 at Morpilla, Quepem. Call 2411505

Point things where you want them to go - you're in con21 Mar - 19 Apr trol and you know it! Life heats up for you - romantically or otherwise - and you should find that you reach new heights today. It's a great time for you to make a move or to get someone new to see what's special about you.

Taurus You'll accomplish an amazing feat today without realizing 20 Apr - 20 May how - accept the praise. Show off your best side today and let someone close know that you're okay with their weird behavior. If anything, they might be willing to let you make peace between them and the rest of the world!

Easy days are Gemini coming, but first you'll have to get more organized 21 May - 20 Jun about the future.

Arguments at work could turn into big-picture questions or brainstorms, so don't shy away from conflict.

You may find that your mind works best when it's engaged in a dispute of some kind.

If you want your latest idea to work, you must swallow your pride 22 Jun - 23 Jul and ask for help. You don't always act on impulse -- but you're no robot, either! Today, you need to let yourself loosen up even more and give in to your wild side.

Make sure your people are watching your back.

If you want something to happen, picture it so. Visualizing success is valu24 Jul - 23 Aug able. If you have been hesitating before making a big move, now is the time to get going. Your confidence is high -- higher than you realize -- and you can make amazing progress if you act quickly!

Your ability to make things easy to understand will be a 23 Aug - 22 Sep money-saving s k i l l t o d a y.

Show the world that you can adapt with the best of them -people need to see you shift your plans on the fly. Once you've made your display, you can expect to be seen in a different, more favorable, light.

Problems will be popping up all over the place -- use your en23 Sept - 22 Oct ergy to solve them all. It may feel as if your colleagues or family are all scattered and directionless today -- they need you to shape them up!

It may take some time to get their attention, but it is definitely worth it.

Scorpio Banish your stage fright today, or else you'll miss out 23 Oct - 22 Nov on an amazing o p p o r t u n i t y.

Power issues are bubbling up from out of nowhere today, and you may find that your natural inclination to get your hands dirty backfires if you act on it. Hold back and let things settle first.

Sagittarius Yo u

Capricorn K n o w l e d g e isn't useful if you keep it to yourself. Go 22 Dec - 20 Jan ahead -- share some secrets!

Your work issues are driving you crazy, even if you have the day off. It may be a good time for you to just roll up your sleeves and get to work on whatever it is that has been bugging you so much.

Aquarius Coast and experience life for a while. Your most recent 21 Jan - 19 Feb success has earned you time. It's extremely difficult for you to stay focused and on task today, so don't expect to make much progress on detail-oriented work. The good news is that you may be hot with a wild brainstorm!

Join in with a group of likeminded people for lunch or 20 Feb - 20 Mar drinks. Connect with folks.

Your fantasy life may overtake reality today, but you know deep down that it's a fake distinction anyway. See if you can get your people to cover for you while you investigate future possibilities.

Aries

Libra

have everything you need right now, so avoid any 23 Nov - 20 Dec b i g e x p e n d i tures. Conserve.Your commitment to something or someone is extremely beneficial today -to them and to you. Make the most of your good energy to push things to a new level and enjoy the time together.

WORD OF THE DAY

Cancer

Leo

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Pisces

DID YOU KNOW? What is tofurkey?

gourmand Pronunciation goor-mahnd Function Noun Meaning : a person who is fond of good eating, often indiscriminatingly and to excess Example Sentence Terry is a gourmand who does not know how to turn down a free meal.

LAFFS

Tofurkey, a portmanteau of tofu and turkey, is faux turkey – a loaf or casserole of vegetarian protein, usually made from seitan (wheat protein) or tofu (soybean protein) with a stuffing made from grain and/or bread flavoured with a broth and seasoned with herbs and spices. Tofurkey is oven-roasted or baked and can serve as the main dish of a formal meal for people who abstain from or would like to abstain from eating meat. It has become popular as a vegetarian meat alternative served at Thanksgiving (USA and Canada), Harvest festivals, and other winter holidays. Tofurkey can be homemade or purchased pre-made and frozen from multiple sources.

WIZARD OF ID

Funny Quote

“Dig where the gold is… unless you just need some exercise.”

– John M Capozzi

DAILY GROOK DINE VALENTINE

by Francis Rodrigues heart'y gift for chef of lotsa pork dishes, cover him with enuff of hogs and quiches!

GARFIELD

MIND BENDERS

SUN MOON TIDES

Tongue Twister Thursday 32° C | 18° C Dawn 06:37

Partly Clouded

Sunrise 06:59

Moon rise 176:45 High —

Low 04:02

Sunset Dark 18:39 19:01

TIDES High Low 09:37 16:02

12:00 13:45 16:00 17:45

The Hangover Bean Sugar & Spice The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury 18:30 The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 21:00 2012

08:30 11:30 15:00 19:00 22:30

Hamari Devrani Sapno Se Bhare Naina Maryaada ... Lekin Kab Tak? Chaand Chupa Badal Mein Gulaal Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya Sasural Genda Phool Saath Nibhana Saathiya Behenein Sabki Laadli Bebo Saath Nibhana Saathiya Sasural Genda Phool Chaand Chupa Badal Mein Maayke Se Bandhi Dor Gulaal Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai Tere Liye Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya

10:00 Kismat

Last ‘Riddle Me This’ Answer: Washington. It was a US quarter dollar coin lying on the street

18:45 Keeping Mum 21:00 American Pie 23:05 The Fifth Commandment

Malamaal Weekly Aulad Jo Bole So Nihaal Trishakti Unbreakable 08:30 12:00 16:00 20:00

10:30 12:35 14:35 16:35

08:00 12:00 16:00 20:00

13:00 13:30 14:00 14:30 16:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 20:30 21:00 22:00 22:30

Junoon Khoon Bhari Maang Namak Halal Dil

The Visitor Hardwired Legion Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle

13:20 Bandhan 17:30 Jaan 21:00 Bal Ganesh

13:30 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:30 17:00 17:30 18:00 18:30 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 21:00 21:30 22:00 22:30

What makes 8,549,176,320 one of its kind?

High 22:47

23:45 Satya: The Sarkar

The Myth D-War: Dragon Wars The Brothers Bloom The Terminator Street Kings Step Brothers The Color of Money

SUDOKU 786

Riddle Me This

Moon set 05:48

D Tide timings are for Mormugao Harbour. For Panjim/Calangute add 20 mins. For Colva add 30 mins

09:50 12:20 14:20 16:40 18:50 21:00 23:10

We will learn why her lowly, lone, worn yarn loom will rarely earn immoral money

Kismat Krishnaben Khakhrawala Saas Bina Sasural Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa C.I.D C.I.D Classics Khotey Sikkey Krishnaben Khakhrawala Baat Hamari Pakki Hai Maa Exchange Saas Bina Sasural Kismat

11:30 Yeh Ishq Haaye!!

12:00 Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani 12:30 Dhoond Legi Manzil Humein 13:00 Rang Badalti Odhni 13:30 Geet 14:00 Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani 14:30 Yeh Ishq Haaye!!

IDIOT BOX 16:30 17:00 17:30 18:00 18:30 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30

11:30 Pavitra Rishta 12:00 Apno ke liye Geeta ka Dharmyudh 12:30 Yahan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli 13:00 Choti Bahu 13:30 Pavitra Rishta 14:00 Sanskaar Laxmi 14:30 Sanjog Se Bani Sangini 15:00 Ram Milaayi Jodi 15:30 Bhagonwali - Baante Apni Taqdeer 16:00 Apno ke liye Geeta ka

Nastik Trimurti Tu Chor Main Sipahi Ishq

14:00 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta Chashma 14:30 Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo 15:00 Lapataganj 15:30 FIR 16:00 Ring Wrong Ring 16:30 Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo 17:00 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta Chashma 19:00 Mrs. Tendulkar 19:30 Gili Gili Gappa 20:00 Papad Pol 20:30 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta Chashma 21:00 Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo 21:30 Mrs. Tendulkar 22:00 Lapataganj 22:30 FIR

21:00 21:30 22:00 22:30

Dharmyudh Choti Bahu Jhansi Ki Rani Pavitra Rishta Bhagonwali - Baante Apni Taqdeer Apno ke liye Geeta ka Dharmyudh Dil Se Diya Vachan Choti Bahu Jhansi Ki Rani Yahan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli Pavitra Rishta Ram Milaayi Jodi Sanjog Se Bani Sangini Sanskaar Laxmi

13:00 Mrs. Tendulkar 13:30 Papad Pol

13:20 14:15 15:10 16:05

22:00

Reaper Wipeout Sports Crash Guinness World Records Smashed Ultimate Guinness World Records Wipeout India's Minute to Win It Guinness World Records Smashed Breaking The Magician's Code India's Minute to Win It

10:00 10:30 11:00 12:00 13:00 13:30 14:00 15:00 16:00 16:30 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00

The Simpsons Two And A Half Men Koffee With Karan Burn Notice The Bold and The Beautiful Friends Masterchef US The Good Guys Two And A Half Men The Simpsons Burn Notice Masterchef US Koffee With Karan The Good Guys Masterchef US Burn Notice

17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00

15:00 Dhoond Legi Manzil Humein 15:30 Rang Badalti Odhni 16:00 Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani 16:30 Yeh Ishq Haaye!!

17:00 Dhoond Legi Manzil Humein 17:30 Geet 18:00 Yeh Ishq Haaye!!

18:30 Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani 19:00 Dhoond Legi Manzil Humein 19:30 Geet 20:00 Yeh Ishq Haaye!!

20:30 Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani 21:00 Dhoond Legi Manzil Humein 21:30 Geet 22:00 Rang Badalti Odhni

10:00 Takeshi's Castle 10:30 The Pink Panther Show 11:00 Mr. Bean: The Animated Series 12:00 Chhota Bheem 12:30 Kumbh Karan 13:00 The New Adventures of Hanuman 13:30 Anpanman Breadman 14:00 Chhota Bheem 16:00 Mr. Bean: The Animated Series 17:00 Coji Coji 17:30 Hagemaru 18:00 MAD VIII 18:30 Chhota Bheem 19:30 Anpanman Breadman 20:00 Just for Laugh Gags

10:30 Sports Crash 11:30 Breaking The Magician's Code 12:25 India's Minute to Win It

10:00 Capturing the Cup 11:00 ICC World Cup H/ls 13:00 Capturing the Cup

14:00 15:00 17:00 17:30 20:00 21:00 21:30 22:00

Capturing the Cup Epic Encounters Superstars Legends ICC Cricket World Cup Epic Encounters Score Tonight The Fourth Estate Capturing the Cup

11:00 13:00 13:30 17:30 20:00 20:30 21:00 21:30 22:00

Barclays Premier League Asian Tour Golf Show Avantha Masters ICC Cricket World Cup Sportscenter India Sportscenter Asia Superstars Legends World Cup Superstars History of the Cricket World Cup 23:00 Sportscenter India

10:00 13:00 14:00 14:30 16:30 17:30 20:00 22:00

Calypso Beats The Contenders Road to the Final Gameplan World Cup Superstars ICC Cricket World Cup Capturing the Cup ICC Cricket World Cup

10:30 12:30 13:00 13:30 17:30 19:30 21:30 23:25

UEFA Champions League Full Throttle European Tour Weekly European Tour WWE: Raw UEFA Champions League WWE: Raw UEFA Europa League

10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00

Creative Vision Great Migrations Nat Geo Amazing!

Dangerous Encounters True Stories Fight Science Caught in the Act Nat Geo Amazing!

Nat Geo Wild I Didn't Know That Wild Russia Mega Factories Megacities

Instructions for Sudoku 9 x 9 letter: To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in each of the nine vertical columns, in each of the nine horizontal rows and in each of the nine boxes

SUDOKU SOL 785

HERALD CROSSWORD - 786 Across 1- Cartel; 5- At right angles to a ships length; 10- Rotate; 14Currency of Turkey, and formerly of Italy; 15- Cotton thread used for hosiery; 16- To ___ (perfectly); 17- Blue hue; 18Bury; 19- Monetary unit of South Africa; 20- Sewage; 22- Apparel; 24- Prince Valiant’s son; 25Clean air org.; 26- Young salmon; 29- Baseball execs; 32Methuselah’s father; 36- Edible corm; 37- Fit with clothes; 39Sprechen ___ Deutsch?; 40Reticent; 43- Actress Peeples; 44- Inflammatory condition of the skin; 45- Hollow grass; 46Flavor; 48- Compass pt.; 49Arranges in groups; 50- From ___ Z; 52- Resistance unit; 53Russian revolutionary; 57- Capital of Swaziland; 61- Mrs. Chaplin; 62- Eagle’s Addition column; 56- Bring forth young; 57home; 64- Toward the mouth; 65- Up and ___!; Factory; 58- Asian sea; 59- California wine region; 60- Biblical garden; 63- Manipulate; 66- Buckets; 67- Back of the neck; 68- He loved Lucy; 69- Hearth; 70- Brio; SOLUTION - 785 Down 1- Diner orders; 2- Place; 3- Like some history; 4- Thick soup of crabmeat; 5- Set straight; 6Common hop; 7- Cornerstone abbr.; 8- Actor Baldwin; 9- Blackbird; 10- Plaid; 11- D-Day beach; 12- Actor Auberjonois; 13- Beatty and Rorem; 21- Illustrative craft; 23- Musical drama; 26- Slow growth; 27- Craze; 28- Killer whales; 29- Surgical dressing; 30- Floating bombs; 31- Thin glutinous mud; 33- Bendable twig, usually of a willow tree; 34- Catlike Asian carnivore; 35- Listens; 37- HBO alternative; 38South American tuber; 41- Confronts; 42- Musical brass instrument; 47- Japanese mat; 49Doo-wop syllable; 51- Giraffe’s cousin; 52- Corpulent; 53- Tailless amphibian; 54- Routine; 55-

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In Veneration of Prophet Muhammad Photos by Rozario Estibeiro

A visitor at a self-help group stall selling sweet items and hand-woven material

BY AMRESH PARAB ten-day Aparant Maand organised by Goa Handicrafts Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation (GHRSSIDC) is underway at Kranti Maidan, Ponda.

In all, 110 stalls have been allotted this year to Goan artisans and self-help groups and a variety of handicrafts and homemade products are on display. These include handicraft items made from sea-shells, bamboo and clay to homemade sweets, bags and hand-woven items. The exhibition cum sale will remain open till February 20, 2011.

“There was a good response last year, so much so that last year’s event which was for eight days was extended by two more days. Seeing this response, with the help from Home Minister Ravi Naik, we made a proposal before the GHRSSIDC for a similar event this year,” said GHRSSIDC Director, Hussain Mulla.

Mulla further said, “We are not charging any fees from the stalls allotted to self-help groups and other artisans. In

A

s t f a r c Handi at 10-day e r o l d a n G a a M t n Apara

fact, GHRSSIDC pays dearness allowance Rs 150 per day to them.

We have a total of 110 stalls and even provide residential facilities to members of self-help groups and artisans who are coming from distant places. The idea is to provide marketing exposure to handicrafts and homemade items made by self-help groups.”

Says, Nikhitia Morajkar of Chetna Craft from Taleigao-Panjim, “Response is good but not that good like other places where we participated. However we are satisfied over the organisational aspect.”

Cinema Utsav 2011 celebrates Konkani Cinema

BY THOMAS FERNANDES oming up with a novel concept, the Ucassaim Parish took the initiative of holding a Konkani film festival, Cinema Utsav 2011, at the church premises. The recently held event was inaugurated at the hands of film-maker Rajendra Talak, whose film ‘O Maria’ has been garnering a great response. Rev. Fr Ave Maria Afonso, Parish Priest of St Elizabeth Church, Uccasaim, Coordinator Milagres Carneiro of Carneiro Multi-Media Productions, Anthony Fernandes of St Anthony Arts Production, Siolim and L P Perry were the other dignitaries present at the inaugural function.

Photos by Thomas Fernandes The inaugural ceremony was given a filmy touch with dignitaries walking the red carpet, lighting the traditional lamp and releasing the gas balloons. which was a first of its kind in the church history of Goa. Another socially awakening film on Goan mines by Rajendra D’Mello congratulated Fr Afonso for propagating the cause of Konkani language and sought whole-hearted support Talak was screened after the function.

Fr Afonso expressed his happiness over the organisation for the Konkani language through the promotion of of such a festival and urged the Goans to fall in love with Konkani films.

Arnold D’Costa and Mahesh Rane, producer and director Konkani. of the film ‘Vizmit’ were felicitated at the hands of Fr Afonso.

On the second day, the parishioners were shown the film Two female youth members of the Ucassaim Parish, Grishell ‘Zagor’ directed by Damu Naik.

The closing ceremony on the concluding day of Cinema Andrade and Fiona D’Silva were also felicitated for their outUtsov 2011 had Trajano D’Mello as the Chief Guest. Fr Afonso standing works for the parish.

Cinema Utsov 2011 concluded with the screenand his team comprising Parish Council and the youth were ing of the film ‘Vizmit’. lauded for their efforts in organising the 3-day film festival

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Weaving magic with bamboo: a lady proudly sells her bamboo hand creations (above) Photos by Amresh Parab

Sea-shells wonder: A hand-made item from sea shells on display

Goans in Mumbai have a Night to Remember

BY VALENCIA FERNANDES he Goan community of Mumbai loves a good time and the recently held Goanite of I C Colony, held at the grounds of The YMCA, Borivali, was exactly that.

The residents of Immaculate Conception, Borivali have long been missing such social events; a feature that once symbolised this quaint suburb of Mumbai. The Goan Cultural Association, the chief organisers of this event, put together a magnificent gala evening that was rightly themed Goanite – Traditionally

T

Goan – Truly Indian. The programme was attended by over 900 people which included 650 members, 200 non members and 50 special invitees. The true Goan spirit was alive throughout the venue.

The evening kick started with a few residents from the colony rendering Goan and Portuguese melodies to enthrall the crowds by giving them a glimpse of what was in store later that night. This was followed by awards given to deserving young Goan achievers who had excelled in various categories ranging from sports to music as well as in the field of academics. The function began with the traditional march past which has now become a trademark for every Goan get-together. The good music began with the classic golden oldie ‘Molbavelo Dhou’ followed by non stop Goan classics. A number of games were also played.

Dinner, of course, was a Goan’s delight with pork sorpotel, chicken xacuti and ‘saanaas’ and ‘wonne’ for dessert.

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eil Nitin Mukesh fractured his finger in three places but he bore the pain and continued shooting for his next film Players.

The talented actor is also excited about his possessive lover act in 7 Khoon Maaf.

His hand injury may require surgery as it was made worse by his insistence on continuing the shoot.

“I’m not a reckless person but one has to be professional and weigh the pros and cons. I had insisted on doing my own stunts.

When a heap of things fell on my hand during an action sequence that Allan Amin was directing in New Zealand, I knew my finger was hurt... It had gone numb. But to cancel shooting would have meant immense losses for directors Abbas-Mustan. I couldn’t bear that. So I bore the pain instead,” Neil said.

In addition, he also shot an ad for a product that he endorses with the fractured finger. All of this has taken its toll on the injury and doctors have ordered him to rest the hand in a cast for five weeks.

The young actor said: “If it doesn’t heal properly, I’d have to go for surgery. At the moment I’m enjoying wearing a skincoloured cast. Most people can’t even tell I am injured except for the fact that the affected finger is swollen five times over.”

e entered Bollywood with the small budget, quirky Tere Bin Laden, but Pakistani singer-actor Ali Zafar will be seen next with Katrina Kaif and Imran Khan in a typical romantic comedy. He will also focus on his first love – music.

“The film is a romantic comedy, a very family kind of set-up. Imran and I play brothers. I’m a very charming and flamboyant guy in the film who is very confused about what he wants from life,” said Ali. “Mere Brother Ki Dulhan is a Yash Raj Films’ production and is being directed by debutant Ali Abbas Zafar. Tere Bin Laden was also director Abhishek Sharma’s first film. So why is Ali Zafar signing up with newcomers?

‘One hardly comes across good scripts. I have heard about 50 scripts since Tere Bin Laden. Then finally I liked this one. Recently I signed another film but I can’t talk about that. The makers will make an announcement soon,” he revealed.

Films apart, Ali is also focussing on music, his first love. The musician’s new album Jhoom was recently released by Yash Raj Music in India and worldwide and by

Britney named Ultimate Gay Icon

Parenting

Neil carries on working with Broken Finger

Romantic Comedy, Music with Soul on Ali Zafar’s Mind

Ali’s own label Alif Records in Pakistan.

“This time I have tried to make timeless music rather than something that is interesting only for a week or so. I made what my heart liked and not what I felt would be popular in the market,” said Ali, who has earlier released two albums titled Huqa Pani and Masty.

“As far as inspirations are concerned, I was just thinking that the music that is created today, the soul is missing, secondly it doesn’t touch a chord and thirdly it has no shelf life. So I wanted the music that I compose to have all of the above.”

Tourism

Billy Ray worried about Miley Cyrus

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inger-actress Miley Cyrus’ father Billy Ray has revealed that his daughter’s recent behaviour has left him worried about her. Billy admitted that the star’s recent behaviour – including smoking salvia through a bong and throwing her 18th birthday party in a bar, has made him realised that Miley’s handlers are not looking after her properly.

“Every time the train went off the track, her people, or as they say in today’s news, her handlers, would put the blame on me. I took it because I’m her daddy. OK, nail me to the cross,” he said in an interview.

“I’m scared for her. She’s got a lot of people around her that’s putting her in a great deal of danger. I want to get her sheltered from the storm.”

“After the incident with the legal high (salvia), her handlers told me it was none of my business. I should have said, ‘Enough is enough – it’s getting dangerous and somebody’s going to get hurt’.”

Miley shot

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inger Britney Spears has been voted as an ultimate gay icon of all time in a new poll.

Spears topped the list pushing US President Barack Obama and veteran performer Cher to take 31 per cent of the vote in the Orange County Equality Project’s poll. Madonna came second with 25 per cent of the vote, but a poll spokesperson insists it was a close call between the two superstars.

“When Madonna puts out a new album, she will be on top again. Madonna is the greatest icon the gay community has ever had,” stated Equality Project’s Joel Waddell.

Singer Lady Gaga was voted in third with 22 per cent, while 12 per cent of respondents picked Katy Perry.

to fame with Disney TV show Hannah Montana with Billy, 49, playing her father but he admitted he wishes the programme had “never happened” because of the impact it had on his family life. “The damn show destroyed my family. I hate to say it, but I’d take it back in a second.”

Dating Online? Beware of Grammar Errors! A Wireless Radio that is Twice as Fast

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ating may have become hi-tech, but romantic rituals remain much the same, says a new study. Like in traditional dating, online love birds are influenced by nonverbal cues like spelling errors, the number of exclamation marks and the use of grammar.

Zoe Hazelwood, psychologist at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), who led the study, has found that traditional and online dating are, in fact, very similar.

For example, she found non-verbal communication was also just as important in online dating as it was in traditional dating, according to a QUT statement.

“Although online traditional non-verbal cues are not present, in our research we found people do judge potential partners on things aside from what they are saying,” she said.

“People form impressions online based on things like spelling errors, use of acronyms, amount of exclamation marks, use of grammar – things like that. They may not pursue a relationship with someone if they do not like their writing style, or feel they have poor spelling,” she explained.

Online dating has also allowed an avenue for people young and old to reach out and find connections, said Hazelwood. “One of the things I found pleasing was that online dating stretched across all age groups,” she said.

Hazelwood’s research found that traditional daters and online daters had roughly the same relationship success rate – despite many people believing that online dating was not as likely to be as successful as traditional dating.

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esearchers, several of them of Indian origin, have developed the first wireless radio that can send and receive signals at the same time. This makes them twice as fast as existing technology. “Textbooks say you can’t do it,” said Philip Levis, assistant professor of computer science and electrical engineering at Stanford University. “The new system completely reworks our assumption of how wireless networks can be designed,” he added.

Cell phone networks allow users to talk and listen simultaneously, but they use a workaround that is expensive and requires careful planning, making the technique less feasible for other wireless networks, including Wi-Fi. A trio of electrical engineering graduate students, Jung Il Choi, Mayank Jain and Kannan Srinivasan, began working on a new approach when they came up with a seemingly simple idea.

In most wireless networks, each device has to take turns speaking or listening. “It’s like two people shouting messages to each other at the same time,” said Levis. “If both people are shouting at the same time, neither of them will hear the other.”

It took the students several months to figure out how to build the new radio, with help from Levis and Sachin Katti, assistant professor of computer science and of electrical engineering.

The group has a provisional patent on the technology and is working to commercialise it. They are currently trying to increase both the strength of the transmissions and the distances over which they work.

Mediation can boost Brain Health in just Few Months

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n a new study, Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston has found that regular meditation can boost brain health and results begin to show in just a few months. The researchers tracked 16 people who took a course on mindfulness-based stress reduction that includes guided relaxation exercises and easy stretching, and practised for about 30 minutes a day.

Eight weeks later, MRI scans showed significant grey matter density growth in areas of the brain involved in learning and memory, empathy and compassion, sense of self and emotional regulation, when compared with a control group.

“This is where we can clearly see, for the first time, that when people say, ‘Oh, I feel better, I’m not as stressed when I meditate’, they are not just saying that; there actually is a biological reason why they are feeling less stress,” stated senior author Sara Lazar, a psychology instructor at Harvard Medical School.

“But this is proof that it is really meditation that is making the difference,” she said.

“And it doesn’t take long to get there.”

Gary Kaplan, director of the Kaplan Centre for Integrative Medicine in McLean, reports that patients who follow this advice typically sleep better, have less pain, less anxiety and depression, and a better general sense of well-being.

Hugh Byrne, a senior teacher with the Insight Mediation Community of Washington, says, “Meditation isn’t just about bringing awareness to your experience while you’re sitting cross-legged with eyes closed. It’s also a practice that you can bring into the rest of your life: when you’re eating, sitting in a traffic jam, or relating to a partner, spouse, kids or colleagues at work,” he added.

Don’t be discouraged by a wandering mind. It’s totally normal. “The important thing is just to notice when you move into planning the future or ruminating on the past or daydreaming, just notice that and gently bring attention back to the present,” Bryne said.

Courtesy Agencies

Editor –in-chief: R F Fernandes. Editor: Ashwin Tombat. Chief Editor-Features: Christina Viegas.

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