18 MARCH 2011 HERALD PUBLICATION PVT LTD

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Sudhin Dhavalikar

Aleixo Sequeira

Dayanand Mandrekar

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Pandhurang Madkaikar

Jose Philip D’Souza

IT’S A GROWTH-ORIENTED BUDGET, SAYS CM...BUT SOME GIVE IT A SLEEP

Photos by Rozario Estibeiro

BUDGET DOES A POLL VAULT Schemes aplenty Goodies for Education & Tourism l

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Big relief for Health, Social Welfare & Mining-affected

With an eye on Assembly elections slated for next year, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat on Thursday presented a populist State budget for 2011-12. The please-all budget, which saw series of schemes and incentives offered, has projected total estimated receipts and total gross expenditure for the year 2011-12 placed at Rs 6698.31 crore and Rs 8022.19 crore respectively. Team Herald highlights the key budget proposals.

Taxation

Water tariff increased for large scale users. Upto use of 25m3 the rate is unchanged at Rs 2.5 per m3. l VAT on tobacco products including cigar and cigarettes increased from 12.5 per cent to 20 per cent. l Infrastructure tax on purchase/ construction of independent bungalow houses in gated communities or housing complexes and flats in apartments. Bungalows above Rs 1 crore will pay 1 per cent tax and above Rs 2 crore will pay 2 per cent of cost. l Tax on purchase of new luxury cars. Rs 10-20 lakh cars – Rs 10,000; Rs 20-40 lakh – Rs 30,000; Rs 40-60 lakh – Rs 50,000; Rs 60 lakh and above – Rs 1 lakh. l Excise duty on liquor including beer increased. l Licence fees for late night bars and restaurants hiked. l

O N PA G E 2

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Kamat assures to modify ‘Gomant Bal Rath’.

GCCI describes budget development-oriented.

Parrikar says it lacks any substance.

Budget points to deficit.

2 per cent increase on VAT in aviation spirit, aviation turbine fuel, high speed diesel, oil, light diesel oil, motor/ spirit/ petrol. This will fetch government additional Rs 100 crore. l Road tax for vehicles enhanced by one per cent for individual as well as companies and institutions. l Co-operative housing societies to be covered under 2 per cent slab to rationalise stamp duty on conveyance of immovable property. l Cargo related charges at ports hiked. l Rate of composition fee increased from 4 per cent to 5 per cent for hotel restaurants, eating house – refreshment room, boarding establishment serving food and nonalcoholic beverages other than starred category of hotels. l The composition fee for shacks allotted by Tourism department is increased to Rs 10,000 per annum. l Tax on screening of tickets ratio-

HOW THE RUPEE GOES

nalised. Tickets upto Rs 50 will be exempted from entertainment tax. Tickets exceeding Rs 50 shall attract levy of 25 per cent.

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Education

Edunet scheme to be replaced with Laptop 11 scheme. Laptops to be provided to Std XI students with effect from the year 2010-11, this will benefit students who answered Std XI exams this year.

Rs 46 crore provision made. l Smart class to be taken under pilot project. 100 schools and 25 higher secondary schools would be covered. Smart class is latest teaching technique with the help of digital technology. (Provision of Rs 2 crore made). l Goa Institute of Open Schooling to be set up for school drop outs. l Rs 2.8 crore for upgradation of infrastructure in Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary.

Additional grant of Rs 25 lakh per annum for the board for contingent l

WHAT GOES UP

HOW THE RUPEE COMES

expenditure.

100 per cent grant-in-aid for institutions in technical education. l Grade pay under Part B of VIth Pay Commission to be made applicable to various categories of school education teachers with effect from July 1, 2011. l Scholarships for students to take up higher education in science.

The scheme is also open to science teachers. l One time grant of Rs 2 lakh to science laboratories and colleges and Rs 50,000 for higher secondary schools. l Research and technology park at Goa University. l Dayanand Bandodkar Scheme for l

Petrol, diesel Water tariff for large scale users Bungalows prices Cigarettes, Liquor Luxury cars Fees for late night bars Road tax Shack fee financial assistance to orphans for education upto post graduation. l Free higher education upto undergraduates and post graduate degree for SC/ST students. l Golden Jubilee Best Science Award to encourage Goans in field of science. l

Tourism

Helicopter services to be set up to promote tourism in state. Rs 75 lakh to be utilised for construc-

tion of heliports/helipads.

Commencing sunset cruising from Panjim to Cortalim. l River Cruise in River Sal and beautifying both its banks and constructing leisure fishing points. l Financial assistance through EDC for residents to construct self contained rooms for tourist stay. l Beautification of Baina beach to be taken up. Rs 50 lakh provision for the purpose. l

Fishing

Respite for tradition fishermen with increase in subsidies on kerosene from present Rs 18,000 to Rs 30,000, on outboard motors from Rs 20,000 to Rs 40,000, on purchasing nets from Rs 8000 to Rs 20,000. (Provision of Rs 750 lakh) l Budgetary provision for the remaining compensation of Rs 50,000 to be paid to the kin of the fishermen who died in Cyclone Phyan. l

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Kanya dhaan!

Mining

Rs 500 crore to be spent in the mining affected areas in the next two years. To begin with a budgetary provision of Rs 100 crore made this year.

(Continued on page 10)

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

The declining sex ratio is a major cause for concern for the State government, according to Chief Minister Digambar Kamat.

Announcing a series of schemes for girls, Kamat said that the sex ratio had dipped to an all time low of 1000:961 and needed a multi-pronged corrective strategy to resolve the crisis early.

In view of the above, he said the government is “incentivising” the mother with financial assistance of Rs 5,000 immediately on the delivery of a girl child provided it is not her third child.

Further, he said, under the chief minister girl child security scheme once a girl child is born a fixed deposit of Rs 25,000 will be automatically opened in her name to be withdrawn after attaining the age of 18 years.

He further said that under the new scheme girl children would also be given free school uniforms, text books and educational aid as further incentives.

Financial assistance under the Kanyadaan scheme will be increased to Rs 25,000 from existing Rs 15,000.

A provision of Rs 56 crore is made for all above schemes, Kamat said.

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Pg 2 budGeT sniPPeTs AgRicuLTuRE nOne time grant of Rs 80,000 per hectare to be provided to Self Help Groups for cultivation of vegetables to encourage them in agriculture. Grant will include expenses towards seed, fertiliser, water pumps, pipeline, fencing etc. (provision of Rs 200 lakh) n Subsidy rates on farm equipments to be unified at 75% of the cost of the implements. (Provision of Rs 750 lakh). n Support price for coconut increased from existing Rs 5 to Rs 6. Seventy-five per cent subsidy on fungicides at source to arecanut growers subject to maximum of Rs 8000.

(Provision of Rs 150 lakh) n 90 per cent subsidy under solar power battery fencing scheme to be extended to general category farmers. n 75 per cent subsidy on digging of wells. Maximum of Rs 1 lakh to be considered. n Three chief ministers awards – Krishi Ratna (Rs 2 lakh), Krishi Vibhushan (Rs 1 lakh) and Krishi Bhushan (Rs 50,000) for farmers in agriculture and horticulture along with citation. (Provision of Rs 350 lakh) n In addition to 50 per cent subsidy from Central Government for construction of green houses and poly houses for cultivation of vegetables and flowers, the State will provide 40 per cent additional subsidy. (Provision of Rs 75 lakh). Subsidy on bio gas plant to be increased to 90 per cent.

TRibAL wELfARE n Grant of Rs 5 crore each to SC/OBC Corporation, ST development Corporation n Provision for Dhangar community increased to Rs 1.5 crore. infRAsTRucTuRE DEvELOPmEnT n MoU signed with GAIL for gas-based power plant in Goa of minimum generation of 250 mw of power. n “Electric Perimeter Security fencing” with integrated surveillance at key official buildings and premises. In first phase, assembly and secretariat complex to be covered. n Bridge on Terekhol River to be constructed. n Vehicular bridge at Rua de Ourem and Patto Plaza for alternate route to Panjim city. n Swimming pools in Mormugao and Canacona taluka. n New police station buildings at Mapusa and Bicholim. n Chapora Fort to be renovated. n Construction of Haj house to benefit people going to Haj. n MLAs to get Rs 50 lakh for development works in their respective constituencies. sOLiD wAsTE mAnAgEmEnT n Grant to village panchayats for rural garbage disposal scheme increased to Rs 50,000. n Incentives to educational institutions for setting up plastic and other related products collection centres. n MoU to be signed with Baba Atomic Research Centre for transfer of the state-of-the-art technology for treatment of garbage, preservation of fruits and food grains. n Awards for cleanliness and hygiene of Rs 10 lakh for village panchayats and municipalities.

ART cuLTuRE n Fellowships for writers in memory of late Ravindra Kelekar and late Manoharai Sardessai. n Rs 25 lakh grants each to NGOs working for children, old, sick and disabled. Rs 25 crore provision made and will be covered with increase in VAT on diesel and petrol. n Rs 20 crore and Rs 30 crore provision for village panchayats and municipalities including CCP for creation of basic amenities and other developmental projects. n Rs 30 lakh for upgradation of Hanuman Natyagraha in Mapusa and Rs 50 lakh for re-construction of Damodar Vidhyabhavan, Margao. n Grants for colleges to conduct lectures of eminent personalities. n Institutions promoting Sanskrit to get financial support.

Budget points to deficit HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

According to the budget estimates for 2011-12, the revenue deficit is Rs 172.03 crore and fiscal deficit is Rs 707.28 crore.

The plan and non-plan budget estimates of the total gross expenditure are placed at Rs 3129.61 crore and 4892.58 crore.

The major head of expenditures under non-plan are salaries, pension charges, interest payment, repayment of debt and grant-in-aid.

On the plan side, the major heads of expenditure includes salaries, grant-in-aid, major works other capital expenditure and other charges.

Of the total receipts, share of tax revenue would be Rs 3156 crore and non-tax revenue would be Rs 2262.74 crore.

The grant-in-aid from Central

government is estimated at Rs 449.90 crore.

As per revised estimate for 2010-11 a revenue surplus of Rs 325.49 crore is achieved as against revenue deficit of Rs 127.20 crore during 2009-10 (actual).

Fiscal deficit is at Rs 690.27 crore as against Rs 1242.03 crore during 2009-10 (actual).

The debt to GSDP ratio has been 29.62.

While the State economy grew at 13.03 per cent in 200910 as against 9.46 per cent in 2008-09, the chief minister expects the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) to grow at 14 to 15 per cent.

He further says, “I am hopeful that the economy will not look back and achieve a respectable growth of 15 per cent during the next fiscal year 2011-12.

Budget is inclusive, growth-oriented: CM

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

The budget presented by Chief Minister Digambar Kamat may appear as “populist”, he however claimed that is it is not only growth oriented but also inclusive.

Addressing a press conference after presenting the budget on

Thursday here, the chief minister, said interest of all sectors — education, agriculture, social, industry is reflected in the budget. “It is inclusive and growth-oriented.”

The plan outlay has been considerably increased since 2009-10 from Rs 710 crore to Rs 3129 crore and this has been exclusive of contribution of planning commission.

He also claimed that his government has managed to achieve average growth rate of 26 per cent.

While he said that wherever possible tax has been imposed, essential items such as LPG gas has been excluded.

Talking about societal initiatives of the budget, Kamat said, there has been provision to setup home for people suffering

from Alzheimer’s. “The number o f p e o p l e s u f f e r i n g f ro m Alzheimer is quite big,” he said.

Main thrust of the budget has been on societal schemes. Motorcycle pilots and anganwadi workers are taken care of in this budget.

The chief minister further said there has been clear budget outlay for each scheme that has been mentioned in the budget.

He also that scheme to unemployment allowance to youth will be linked to educational qualification.

As regards to provision made to mitigate problems in the mining areas, the chief minister said, the villages panchayats of respective areas will have a say on what needs to be done.

Parrikar says it lacks substance HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

“This budget is without any substance,” is how Opposition Leader Manohar Parrikar commented on the budget presented by Chief Minister Digambar Kamat on Thursday.

Addressing a press conference post budget, Opposition Leader said budget doesn’t have any substance and it is also not growth-oriented.

While Kamat may claim that his budget is development-oriented, Parrikar said the loan liability of the government has risen three times.

He said total fiscal deficit which was Rs 2100 in February 2005 has increased to Rs 6800 crore in February 2011, indicating that the government has miserably failed in fiscal management.

Rubbishing the government’s claim growth in agriculture to the tune of .4 per cent to GSDP, he pointed out that in the last four years agriculture has de-

clined by 25 per cent. The current growth only means that the government has succeeded in arresting the decline and it cannot be termed as growth in agriculture, Parrikar said.

“Agriculture schemes are an eye-wash and politically motivated,” he added.

Referring to the budget provision for unemployed by way of unemployment subsistence allowance of maximum Rs 1,200 to Rs 3,000, Parrikar said, it has no meaning because firstly, the amount offered is meagre and secondly it’s not linked to any

TanK disTRibuTion sCam

Oppn puts Churchill on the mat HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Churchill Alemao was at the receiving end once again over the alleged tank distribution scam, which was raised on the floor of the House.

BJP legislators including Manohar Parrikar and Damodar Naik put Alemao on the mat during the Question Hour. The legislators demanded formation of a committee headed by chief secretary, in participation with finance secretary, to probe the entire scam.

Alemao in his reply to Naik claimed that the government has already notified the scheme to distribute water tanks.

“The scheme has been formulated by PWD to provide water tanks at the required places depending on the need of the consumers,” the reply reads.

The Opposition benches, however, asked him to present the notification of the scheme on the floor of the House.

The minister sought time till tomorrow to place the papers notifying the scheme.

In a written reply tabled on the floor of the House, Alemao said

that ex-post facto approval for the expenditure for the distribution of water tanks and pumps was granted by the Cabinet.

“However, Cabinet directed the department to prepare a proper scheme with criteria for implementation of the same henceforth,” the reply reads.

Parrikar questioned the word ‘henceforth’ in the reply stating that the distribution of the tanks done in past stand to be illegal.

The Leader of Opposition alleged that some of the tanks were purchased at the inflated rates and bills for the contractors were even paid.

Fatorda MLA Damodar Naik, who had even raised the issue during last session, said that there was huge gap in the market rates and the quotations by the department.

Alemao’s reply on the floor reads that 4000 tanks are provided at the required places depending on the need of the consumer prior to the formation of scheme.

“After the scheme was formulated, total 124 tanks were provided to the consumers,” he said adding that for the current financial year, Rs 48.05 lakh was spent.

training scheme.

“It’s like giving chocolates,” he said further pointing out that this measure will not help to remove unemployment in any way.

The Opposition Leader though applauded the chief minister for giving a thought to increasing girl child ratio; he however said the scheme is not adequate to address the problem.

Criticism the government on its taxation measures, he said the government is directionless in this area. ‘The government’s thrust is on collecting revenue through mining gambling, lottery, and it can prove disastrous,” he warned.

The metal prices have started fluctuating post tsunami in Japan. Goa’s economy may be affected if mining export reduces consequent to fluctuation in the international share market post calamity in Japan.

The Opposition Leader summed up the budget as “goody goody but lacking on growth aspect.”

‘Gaming panel to govern casino operations’ HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat said in his budget speech that the Casino operations in Goa will now be governed by a special regulation and a gaming commission.

Kamat said that both the steps were being undertaken at the behest of the union finance ministry which had conducted a detailed study in this regard.

A committee under Director Financial Intelligence Unit, Ministry of Finance has examined the issue in great detail, Kamat said adding “the committee has recommended a comprehensive legislation and setting up of an autonomous gaming commission to regulate the casinos in the State,” Kamat said.

The chief minister said the committee has also recommended the use of standardised software to calibrate the gaming machines.

“I propose to introduce these recommendations after examining international best practices in this financial year,” Kamat said, adding that the casinos were already brought under the purview of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act to keep tabs on money laundering activities there.

Cm presents report card of Govt’s financial functioning HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

Keeping in mind the forthcoming State assembly election, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat for the first time presented a report card of his Government’s financial functioning in the last fiscal year 2011-12.

In his ‘Action Taken Report – Budget Announcement’ presented on the floor of the House on Thursday, Kamat said that he is committed to promote transparency and accountability in its functioning.

The Budget Announcement covers subjects ranging from price rise, agriculture, IT, education, power, tourism and others covering a total of 108 subjects. It covers most departments which have direct interaction with the government.

Highlighting on the Food Processing Industry, the catalogue mentions that Goa Government has set up a Task Force Com-

mittee on Food Processing and established a roadmap as well as it is tapping central funds to boost this sector.

It further states that the entire amount of Rs 10 lakh under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme has been utilised to further develop agriculture, horticulture, floriculture, pisciculture and dairy in the State. Moving to another sector, the Government claims to have completed modalities to set up a bio-tech incubator in the State.

For this, Goa University has signed the MoU with the Directorate of Industries Trade & Commerce and Goa Small Industries Association.

“I announce the setting up of a Goa IT Knowledge Centre at Verna to provide incubation facilities in the IT sector. I have made adequate budgetary allocation provisions in this regard,” he said in the 29-page catalog.

Highlighting issues in tourism sector, the Government has de-

theatre and multiplexes.

Whereas tax on cable connections has been raised to Rs 15 from Rs 10 per connection per month, and for Dish TV and DTH, the amount has been increased to Rs 30 from Rs 25 per connection per month.

Scribes to get higher pension

assembly session cided to shift the proposed Convention Centre from Dona Paula to an alternate site in the hinterland on PPP basis, following opposition from the people. This would also help in developing hinterland tourism, he said.

Similarly, in consonance with the draft Regional Plan 2021 the Government has proposed to construct bridges at GaundalimCumbharjua, Sanguem Parallel

Bridge, Calvim-Aldona and Savoi Verem-Tixem, basically to open up Goa’s hinterland for economic activity.

While tender has been issued in some of the proposed projects, the Government is examining the proposals of other areas.

Giving a sigh of relief to all movie buffs, the Government has slashed entertainment tax on screening of films in cinema

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GOA, FRIDAY, 18 MARCH, 2011

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

In an attempt to facilitate journalists and news correspondents functioning from rural areas, the Government is in the process of completing ‘a well equipped media facilitation centre at each taluka headquarters through the IT department.’

Besides, it has already enhanced pension for journalists from Rs 2000 to Rs 4000 per month, notification of which has been published and implemented.

A Goa Legislative Assembly complex staffer carries the top half of the Chief Minister’s chair which broke during the session on Thursday.

Photo by Sachin Ambadoskar

GCCI describes budget as development-oriented HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

Describing the budget as development-oriented, GCCI vice president Manguirish Pai Raikar has congratulated Chief Minister Digambar Kamat for sparing the common man with additional tax burden while making the rich and affluent contribute a little more for the development of the State’s infrastructure.

“Announcement of 250 mw gasbased power plant, besides extension of Industrial Policy and the move to involve the industry associations for devising and streamlining various schemes is also a good move,” Raikar said.

The chamber however expected that the Government could have formed the Industrial Development Board, given the fact that there is very little industrial investment coming into Goa. The chamber felt the mining sector which is already overburdened with central taxes

and royalty fees has been put under additional burden by hiking the air and water consent fees, cargo charges for bulk minerals, increase in stamp duty on mining leases, infrastructure tax etc.

The chamber however complimented the finance minister for taking some really innovative initiatives in the education sector and special focus given to agriculture with various schemes and subsidies announced to reversal of decline in agricultural growth in the State.

The dole to unemployed graduates has also been welcomed with a suggestion that there should be proper monitoring of this scheme.

Former GCCI president Nitin Kunkolienkar has also applauded the government for a good budget presentation and echoed the same opinion.

“The budget is an outstanding and a well-balanced budge.

CM has looked after all the factors from healthy to unhealthy

sector, old to young including newly born, environment, etc.

However there is no mention about last year’s plan and implementation but the whole budget is fantastic,” he said.

“Helicopter tourism is a good idea and it will generate more revenue in the State. Sunset cruise from Panjim to Cortalim is also a good idea but there is a need to construct Cortalim Jetty,” he added.

TTAG former president Ralph D’Souza said that rationalization of luxury taxes is in the right direction. “The government should develop Baina beach for cruise anchorage, yacht club and for sea walk. It should also look at three government projects that have been approved for homestays, river tourism and marinas,” he further said.

The Goa Small Industries Association said that steps to provide common affluent plants and small captive plants in industrial estates are welcoming steps.

Kamat assures to modify ‘Gomant bal Rath’ scheme HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

Facing severe criticism on the floor of the House, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat today assured to modify ‘Gomant Bal Rath’ scheme providing the buses for the educational institutions on the need basis.

Kamat said that the government schools, which were left out from the scheme would be covered and also scheme would be extended to the schools, where there is a need.

He said that in rural places like Sattari, some provisions would be made so that the buses could be provided to the needy school students.

The scheme is being implemented by Social Welfare Department and till date around 142 buses are distributed to various institutions, which is having 20 percent OBC students studying in it.

“We will make sure that all the schools, including government schools are covered irrespective of OBC, ST and SC,” Kamat assured on the floor of the House.

BJP legislator Laxmikant Parsekar, raising the issue during Question Hour on the floor of the House, said that an eligibility criterion of 20 percent students from OBC category is injustice for the rest of the classes.

He said that the scheme should be implemented considering Economic Backward Class (EBC) as criteria and not the OBC, ST or SC. Leader of Opposition Manohar Parrikar said that the non-inclusion of scheme for government schools will result in the reduction of admissions in these schools from next academic year onwards.

He said that students belonging to poor strata of society usually go to the government schools, which are kept away from the purview of the scheme. “This is against the provisions of constitution of India,” he claimed.

“The small kids don’t understand your caste and creed criteria. Those studying in government schools will ask their parents to get them admission in aided schools so that they don’t have to walk empty stomach to the school,” Parrikar said striking an emotional chord on the issue.

Speaker Pratapsing Rane too joined the debate and insisted that the scheme should also be implemented for the poor students in the Western Ghats.

“There are so many Maratha students who are poor. But they can’t enjoy the benefit of this scheme. The minister should make some provision for these schools,” Rane, who runs a school in his constituency, said.

He said that the schools find it difficult to get OBC students. “What justice are you doing especially when you talk of all inclusive development,” the Speaker questioned.

Social Welfare Minister Ramakrishna Dhavlikar initially said that the good schools were not giving admission for the OBC students.

Responding to the questions, Kamat appealed the school managements to pay properly for the bus drivers and conductors.

“We are paying Rs 10,000 as a salary for the drivers, Rs 5,000 for the conductors and Rs 50,000 is given for the maintenance of the vehicle,” Kamat said adding that there are some complaints that the management was not paying the full salary.

Sudin to seek legal opinion to file criminal charges against Shimnit HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

Even as the Opposition benches claimed the fraud to the tune of Rs 240 crore in HSRP contract, Transport Minister Ramakrishna Dhavlikar said that he would seek legal opinion in filing criminal charges against the company which had bagged the tender.

“If government does not file a criminal case in next ten days then I will personally file it in HSRP tender allocation by March 30,” Leader of Opposition Manohar Parrikar said.

The BJP leader raising the issue during the Question Hour, questioned why the State Government was not initiating criminal complaint against Shimnit Utsch Private Limited, which had bagged the

HSRP contract.

He said that if the contract had to be executed to its full term, State would have lost Rs 240 crores as an extra amount from the entire Rs 400 crore deals inked with the company.

Parrikar said that the transport minister was not working with the hundred percent convictions which stop him from filing the criminal case against the firm.

He pointed out that the inquiry done under chairmanship of Chief Secretary Sanjay Srivastava had unearthed that the footnote on 51 per cent extra premium on the plates was added later on.

“The note was put after the bid was opened. This is a conspiracy done by the official against the people of the State

to inflate the prices,” the Leader of Opposition added.

Parrikar alleged that by not initiating criminal investigation, Transport Department is trying to protect the mole in the State administration.

Dhavlikar, however, took the defence that since the HSRP termination contract is already challenged before the High Court; the State has given a second thought for the criminal case.

Upon persistent debate, the minister said that he will seek legal opinion in the next days over the issue.

The State government on January 25 had served the termination notice to Shimnit Utsch taking in account all the irregularities pointed out by the government appointed Srivastava Committee.

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Several pregnant women were given sub-standard tablets: CaG HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

Several hundred pregnant women in the state were given sub-standard tablets, which were withdrawn after a delay of almost 11months, CAG report reads.

“A total of 5.29 lakh sub-standard Iron Folic Acid capsules were distributed to pregnant women due to inefficient quality control mechanism,” the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report reads.

The report has observed that though 5.29 lakh sub-standard capsules were utilized by the health units, only 1.43 lakh were returned to Director of Health Service (DHS).

The DHS deputy director in October 2010 confirmed that the capsules were utilised by the health centre.

As per the report, the State Health Society (SHS) had procured medicines worth Rs 2.15 crore under various schemes of National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) during the period 200510.

The quality of the medicines procured was checked by the Directorate of Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However,

...claims major scam in PDS The Comptroller Auditor General (CAG) report tabled on the floor of the House on Thursday has claimed major scam in Public Distribution System (PDS) by including 3,342 ration card holders in the below poverty line category although they had higher income limit.

“In spite of 3,342 card holders in six talukas declaring their income to be more than Rs 11,000 per annum, the Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department recognised them as below poverty line for grant of benefits under Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS),” the report reads.The report further adds that, this lapse by department

caused diversion of 2,807.28 MT of rice valuing Rs 1.73 crore to 3,342 ineligible families during 2008-09 and 2009-10.

The six talukas include Bardez (1,239), Quepem (882), Ponda (547), Tiswadi (511), Salcete (135) and Mormugao (28).

As per the report, the department director in 2008 admitted that the ration cards were renewed irrespective of the income declared by the applicants in the application form.

The CAG report, quoting the department secretary says, “The ration cards of the card holders who had declared income above the income limit would be cancelled.”

The issue of ration cards to BPL families under TDOS was

done in 1997 by the State Government. As per the scheme, the cards were issued all those families having income below Rs 11,000 per annum. As per the statistics, the department till date has issued 27,425 BPL ration cards.

The report has also pointed out department’s failure to compare the list of beneficiaries under the Annapurna Scheme, which has inclusion of 78 ineligible beneficiaries in five talukas.

Similarly, the shortfall in identification of beneficiaries under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana, deprived 1,186 families from the benefit of the scheme during the period from 200510.

it was found that the quality checking was not conducted by FDA. FDA, later collected samples on 10 occasions during 2009-10 and the result indicted that 30 percent of the samples checked were of substandard quality. “The FDA

furnished the test report after a delay of 11 months and it subsequently suggested destruction of these tablets,” the report stated.

“By that time a major quantity of medicines had already been distributed to field health units and had been consumed

by the patients,” the report added.

“The distribution of sub-standard medicines reflected inadequate quality control mechanism and inefficient monitoring of procurement and distribution,” C AG report commented.

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

Goa Bazaar project hits rock bottom HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

State government’s ambitious ‘Goa Bazaar’ project conceived to provide platform for rural products has hit a rock bottom, six years after its announcement, due to its tardy implementation, CAG report reads.

“The ‘Goa Bazaar’ did not materialise even after a lapse of six years despite the availability of funds, due to tardy implementation and transfer of a major portion of the land,” the report of Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reads.

“This resulted in blocking of funds of Rs 3.68 crore and idle investment of Rs 1.27 crore on land acquisition,” the report stated adding that non-completion of the project resulted in

denying the anticipated marketing support and infrastructure to the beneficiaries.

The State government in March 2003 decided to set up a ‘Goa Bazaar’ in Panjim as a special project under the Swarnjayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY) scheme.

The aim of the bazaar was to provide marketing support, training and infrastructure facilities for rural products made by self employed persons and self help groups.

Accordingly, the administrative approval for acquisition of land measuring 40,839 sq mts for the project was granted in October 2003.

The Central Ministry of Rural Development approved the project in February 2004 at an esti-

mated cost of Rs 9.82 crore to be funded by the Centre and State in the ratio of 75:25 and to be completed by 2005.

Audit scrutiny revealed that though Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) was entrusted with the work of executing the project in October 2004, the State Government subsequently decided to execute it through District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) in July 2005.

“The government’s decision to change the executing agency resulted in delay in implementation of the project,” the report revealed.

The State Government has also received criticism from the Central Government for the poor progress in the implemen-

“The revenue and capital expenditure increased by 23 percent and 21 percent respectively over the previous year,” the report reads.

The report claims that the development expenditure, which includes expenditure on social and economic ser vices accounted for 70.70 percent in 2009-10 as against 71.48 percent in 2008-09.

“The plan as well as non-plan revenue expenditure showed consistent increase over the last five years,” the report reads.

The CAG report claimed that Non-Plan Revenue Expenditure (NPRE) during the period 200610, exceeded the Twelfth Finance Commission’s (TFC) normative projection.

As per TFC, the NPRE for the period 2006-10 would be Rs 6,163 crore, however, it went as high as Rs 10,492 crore.

Meanwhile, the arrears of revenue as on 31 March 2010 in respect of some principal heads of revenue amounted to Rs 389.52 crores.

The principal heads of revenue includes commercial taxes, sate excise, taxes on vehicles, water tax and charges, agriculture, river navigation, tourism and other government bodies.

However, the report says that during last five years, the arrears of revenue have been decreased by 8.4 percent.

“Efforts need to be stepped to recover the revenue arrears,” the report commented.

report reveals increase in State expenditure by 93% in last 5 yrs HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

The Comptroller Auditor General (CAG) report tabled on the floor of the house on Thursday revealed that the state expenditure has increased by almost 93 percent during last five years.

As per the report, the total expenditure of the state increased from Rs 2,778 crore in 2005-06 to Rs 5,348 crore in 2009-10. Moreover, the total expenditure during the current year itself went up by Rs 997 crore over the previous year.

Of the total expenditure, revenue expenditure was at Rs 4,227 crore, capital expenditure at Rs 1,984 crore and loan and advances amounted to Rs 37 crore.

traditional Pernem market

Withdrawal of police protection echoes in House HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

The sudden withdrawal of the police protection given to shift traditional Pernem market to a new place figured in the state legislative assembly today during Zero Hour.

Pernem legislator Dayanand Sopte alleged that local mamlatdar pulled out the police protection given for the shifting of the market after he received a call from deputy collector.

Sopte said that Pernem Municipal Council through a resolution adopted on February 10 decided to shift the market as it was causing inconvenience.

The municipality had even served notice to the vendors.

“The market, which is situated on the main road creates traffic problem. All the main government offices are based on this road. Hence the resolution was passed by council to shift the market,” Sopte said on the floor of the House.

The BJP legislator said that the order providing police protection was issued on Wednesday, March 16 evening but it was withdrawn this morning halting the entire shifting process. “Since early morning, all the vendors had shifted their items on the new place as de-

cided, but sudden withdrawal of police protection created chaos,” he said.

Sopte was supported by Congress legislator Dayanand Narvekar on the floor of the 1house questioning the wisdom behind stopping the shifting process.

Narvekar sought to know which ‘powerful person’ was influencing the deputy collector.

Urban Development Minister Joaquim Alemao responding to Sopte said that the decision to shift the market should be adopted unanimously.

But when pointed out that the local civic body has already taken the resolution to shift the market, Alemao stated that he would personally visit the market by next week and see. “I have no idea about the shifting.

Will personal inspect the site next week,” he said.

Alemao stated that the estimates for the construction of new market are being undertaken.There were heated arguments for some time when Panchayat Minister Manohar (Babu) Asgaonkar, representing Dhargalim constituency, tried to intervene and speak.

Sopte said, “Babu has no business to interfere in everything.”

NCP leader’s mine figures in illegal list HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

A mine owned by a senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader is amongst 17 mines which have been termed illegal

by State Forest Department.

As per the reply given by the Forest Minister Filip Nery Rodrigues to the state Legislative Assembly, the department has already filed complaint against the manager of the mine, which is owned by Prafulla Hede, NCP’s state coordinator.

“Ramratan Vaidya, a mining manager at Hede’s mine located in Collem, near the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, had already been booked in course of the enquiry conducted by the Forest Department,” the reply reads.

The State Mines and Geology Department has already booked NCP’s national secretary Jitendra Deshprabhu for illegal mine at Pernem. The department has initiated procedure to recover the penalty of Rs 1.7 crore from the leader.

Apart from this; the department has also identified five mines operated by companies owned by Vedanta Resources as illegal.

“Three separate complaints were filed against officials of Dempo Mining Corporation and Sesa Goa Ltd for illegal mining in forest areas in Bicholim and Sanguem,” the reply reads.

tation of the project and nonutilization of funds.

In October 2010, as per the Chief Minister’s instructions, the PWD was asked to prepare revised drawings and was proposed to complete the project

by December 2011.

Faulty lift delays rane for Session HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

Goa Legislative Assembly speaker was apparently disturbed after faulty lift of the assembly complex delayed his arrival for the session on Thursday.

“None of the lifts in the assembly complex are working. If this continues then I will be always late for the sessions. Public Works Department (PWD) should look after the maintenance of these facilities,” Speaker, Pratapsing Rane said just as the morning session started.

“The lifts in Girgao (Mumbai) are working for last 100 years.

Here a lift does not exist for more than eight years,” he pointed out.

Rane urged Chief Minister Digambar Kamat to provide some financial package towards the maintenance and development of the assembly complex.

Supporting him, the Leader of Opposition Manohar Parrikar pointed out the unhygienic conditions prevailing in the toilets of the complex.

NIA’s Hyderabad unit to handle Margao blast case

MARGAO, MARCH 17 (HR): The Margao bomb blast case will now be handled by the Hyderabad-unit of the National Investigation Agency. Sources in the know said the case has been handed over to the Hyderabad unit of the NIA and officers of the investigation agency has already come down to Goa on the eve of the hearing of the case scheduled in the South Goa Sessions Court on Friday.

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S H O RT TA K E S Restricted water supply

PANJIM (HND): There will be restricted water supply to entire Pernem taluka on March 18 due to burning of one power transformer of 500 KVA (240 HP pumping) at Chandel water treatment plant on March 17.

Bardez and parts of Bicholim will also receive restricted water supply on March 18 due to less raw water supply from Tillari canal at Assonora water treatment plant on March 17.

Efforts are being made to pump raw water from other source and maintain the supply. Inconvenience caused to the consumers is regretted.

Shopping festival in Mapusa

PANJIM (HND): for the first time, Big Discount shopping festival has come to Mapusa for the benefit of Bardez customers.

There are different types of product like imported jewellery, Lotus world furniture, wooden sofa sets, Crystal furniture, Kenya handicraft, electronics, melamine crockery sets, Prestige cooker, Onxy stones from Karachi & Pakistan, Prince plastics, home & office furniture, solar water heater, garden furniture, ladies fashion garments, imported watches, home appliances, toys, shower curtains, door mats, antique wall clocks, iron furniture, gas stoves, herbal products, etc.

This exhibition is good for people who are crazy for shopping, they can shop non-stop between 10.30 am to 9 pm and will be open till March 22.

Tributes paid to Bhausaheb

MLA sees MPT as obstacle to development of Baina beach HERALD REPORTER VASCO, MARCH 17

Welcoming Chief Minister Digambar Kamat’s move to allot Rs 50 lakh to develop Baina beach, Mormugao MLA Milind Naik has, however, raised concerns on the development of the beach in view of MPT’s proposed four-lane highway.

“We welcome government’s proposal, as something is allotted to the development of the beach after a long wait. However, Rs 50 lakh seems to be peanuts considering the length and present status of the beach, which requires a comprehensive plan for the overall development of the beach,” stated Naik.

“Government should seriously think of saving the beach from the destruction caused to the beach with an embankment constructed along the proposed four-lane highway by MPT,” alleged Naik.

He further alleged that MPT is making an ‘all out move to gain control over the beach’ even cultural function organized on the beach is objected by the MPT. He urged the people to save the beach and also requested the State government to give some serious thought to save the beach from destruction.

Nearly 1.5 kms Baina beach stretch has been occupied by slum dwellers, fishermen at

Home Minister Ravi Naik hands away the prize to a winner.

Photo by Amresh Parab

MARCEL (HC): Rich tributes were paid to former chief minister of Goa Bhausaheb Bandodkar on his 100th birth anniversary at Farmagudi-Ponda.

Home Minister Ravi Naik and Transport Minister Sudin Dhavlikar along with Priol MLA Deepak Dhavlikar and members of Ponda Municipal Council (PMC) and panchayats from Marcaim and Ponda constituencies offered floral tributes to the former chief minister.

The birth centenary was observed separately by the Dhavlikar and Ravi groups.

The Dhavlikar group led by Transport Minister Sudin Dhavlikar paid floral tributes, followed by Home Minister Ravi Naik.

Prizes to the race winners organised by JCI-Ponda to commemorate Bahusaheb birth anniversary were distributed by Home Minster Ravi Naik.

Incidentally, Home Minister who was then president of the JCI-Ponda in 1984 had organised running race to commemorate Bahusaheb’s birth anniversary.

“Being a visionary, Bahusaheb was also keen in sports and that is why in 1984, when I was the JCI-Ponda president, I started running race of youth. I hope the JCI-Ponda will continue organising such sports event,” said Naik.

“I also feel sports events should be organised in memory of Bahusaheb Bandodkar on this day in the State,” added the home minister.

Cross cultural synergies meet

PANJIM (HNB): A ‘Cross Cultural Synergies’ - Don Bosco College International Meet, was recently organised at Don Bosco Oratory, Panjim.

The meet commenced with a reading from the Holy Quran.

Students from various countries like Afghanistan, Yemen and Eritrea gave performances depicting their culture, cuisine and information of their country. The Afghanistan students also performed a dance called ‘Atan’, a patriot group song and a fashion show.

The meet was attended by Prof Dr Rodrigues (special advisor for foreign students at the Goa University), Fr Wilfred Fernandes (administrator of Don Bosco College) and Dr Marie Raj (Principal of Don Bosco College).

Blood donation organised

MAYEM (HC): Government College of Arts, Commerce and Science, Sanquelim, in association with Goa Medical College recently organised blood donation camp.

About 90 delegates of National Social Service (NSS) donated their blood in the blood donation programme. The camp was inaugurated by Acting Principal Lucy James.

GMC Hospital Dr Vijayrao Desai, Shashikant Bhonsle, Jose Paul, Jyotsna Thakur, Teja Halarnkar, Sandeep Chodankar, Digambar Narvekar, NSS Officer Raghudas Tari, Shakil Aga, Dr Norma Menezes, Kundan Gawas and others were present on the occasion.

‘Parishioners Evening’ held

CALANGUTE (HC): Parishioners of Nagoa-Arpora-Baga recently organised a ‘Parishioners Evening’ to exchange love and improve the bond of fellowship among the families.

A cultural programme along with a host of items to generate goodwill among the families was organised to mark the occasion.

A solo singer kept the audience on their toes, while some danced to the music. The kids were entertained with games, etc. The members of other communities too joined the parishioners in celebrating the occasion.

Among them were former Nagoa-Arpora sarpanch Salim Sayyed accompanied by his spouse and others.

“The idea came from the Parish Youth and Parishioners who thought of having a ‘Parishioners Evening’ for the families and we supported the idea,” said Parish Priest Fr Simao Rodrigues.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, MARCH 17

Baina beach.

few places and use it to answer nature’s call, while small stretch of the beach at centrally located area near Ravindra Bhavan is only clean portion, which is widely used by the visitors.

It may be recalled that former MLA Karl Vaz and then MMC chief officer Elvis Gomes had asked the Aquatic Water Sports to start its water sports activity about five years back, which had yielded some results.

Now tourists gradually make their way towards the beach for water sports and island trips, but due to unavailability of food and liquor joints, tourists are forced to leave the beach immediately after water sports activities.

MPT had issued show cause notices to Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) for conducting ‘Baina Beach’ festival that had

Photo by M Prabhav

triggered uproar in the council last year.

Interestingly, MMC had made many efforts to beauty the beach, but its plans merely remained on paper.

“We had made an effort, but due to lack of follow-up, things did not move in the right direction,” claimed Councilor Carlos Almeida.

Almeida thanked Deputy Speaker and Cortalim MLA Mauvin Godinho for taking an initiative to make a budgetary provision for the development of Baina beach.

“The council had asked Godinho to take up development proposal of Baina beach with the government, and he assured that the State government would make a provision for the beach development which has reflected in today’s budget,” he said.

Full-time gynaecologist demanded at Bicholim PHC HERALD CORRESPONDENT MAYEM, MARCH 17

Members at the Bicholim PHC Hospital committee meeting have demanded a full-time gynaecologist at the hospital.

The meeting was recently convened under the guidance of its Chairperson Vidhya Parab. Health Officer Girish Pednekar, Bicholim Municipal Council (BMC) Vice Chairman and hospital committee member Shashikant Naik, Cajetan Vaz, Krishna Ghadi, Rayu Sawant, Vighnesh Gaonkar, Prakash Fogeri and Suresh Gaonkar attended the meeting.

Speaking at the meeting, Vaz demanded a full-time gynaecologist at the hospital, as

Students urged to venture out of state for better career

Scrap stolen from WRD storeroom at Shristhal

women patients visiting the hospital have to face acute hardships due to the non-availability of the doctor, whenever they visit for check up.

The members also demanded that Dr Vikas Naik be posted as full-time doctor.

Dr Pednekar informed about government’s approval to start four sub-health centres at Bordem, Sarvan, Kholpewadi-Sal and Kharpal in Bicholim taluka at the earliest.

The members also deliberated on the problem of sanitation faced by the villagers in Bicholim market and adulteration into food items including fruits for which they demanded stringent action against the sanitary inspector holding him

responsible for it.

Vaz suggested that remedial measures be taken for maintaining and retaining old water wells in Bicholim.

The members demanded that Dr Pednekar who is also holding additional charge as the health officer of Sanquelim PHC should be relieved from the additional duty and should be posted as the full time health officer of Bicholim PHC. Dr Girish Pednekar informed that new hospital at Bicholim once commissioned would provide all facilities to the people of Bicholim and surrounding areas, the construction of which is likely to be completed

by December end.

Unused material worth Rs 7,500 belonging to Water Resources Department was stolen from the storeroom of the department at Shristhal-Canacona on Tuesday night.

In his police complaint, WRD Store Supervisor Mahadev Gawde stated that some miscreants broke into the WRD storeroom by forcibly opening its shutters sometime between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning and decamped with unused material worth of scrap importance.

According to police, the scrap material weighs about 500 kgs and apparently has a cost value of Rs 7,500.

Canacona Police registered have an offence under Section 379 IPC for the theft of government property is investigating the case under the supervision of Canacona PI Raju Raut Dessai.

Forest officials inquire about monkey attack HERALD CORRESPONDENT BICHOLIM, MARCH 17

Forest officials on Thursday visited Vathadev-Bicholim and enquired about the monkey attack on a woman that occurred on Tuesday.

It may be recalled that a 52year-old woman had escaped from a possible attack of a monkey at Vathadev. The monkey tried to attack one Suman Manjrekar while she was working in the Kulagar. The forest department officials visited the area and took stock of the situation.

They have informed the villagers to contact them in case if the monkey is sighted again.

Kerala native found dead HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, MARCH 17

A 70-year-old native of Kerala was found dead at his residence at Shristhal-Canacona on Thursday evening.

According to Canacona Police, Murali Nayar was staying alone in his residence.

Police informed that even though no foul play was suspected, the body has been sent at Hospicio in Margao for a post mortem.

Belgaum cops seek custody of accused arrested in Goa

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

The principal of Damodar College of Commerce and Economics, Margao, Dr I Bhanu Murthy has urged students to venture out of the State to brighten their career prospects.

“In the competitive world, students should constantly upgrade themselves in terms of knowledge and skills,” Murthy said during the annual prize distribution function of Dnyanprassarka Mandal’s college at Mapusa, Murthy.

He also advised to return back to serve the State after gaining experience.

“The students should shed their laid back attitude to reap the success and hone their skills by either joining companies or learning at centers outside the State. Many companies are willing to set up their units in Goa, if they get the experienced work force here,” he stated.

Cadet Rohan Sethi and Cadet Jatin Sharma were felicitated at the hand of the chief guest, Murthy.

UPCOMING EVENTS Horse race

PANJIM (HND): 400 years ago, Goa was a traditional port for spices and horses during the time of Taladi. The Portuguese, French and British came to Goa with their ships to trade in spices and horses. Now, for the first time, a horse race will be held in Goa on the beach, near Leonoras Beach shack on March 18 from 9 am onwards.

AA’s group anniversary

PANJIM (HND): Members of Alcoholics Anonymous, Panjim Chapter, will celebrate 32nd group anniversary on March 18 at A V Hall, Don Bosco HS, Panjim, at 5.30 pm. A public awareness programme on ‘Alcoholism-a-disease and Alcoholics Anonymous - way out’ will be organised. AA is a free fellowship which helps people suffering from sickness of alcoholism.

Learn to grow organic veggies

PANJIM (HND): A workshop on ‘Planting an Organic Summer Kitchen Garden’ will be conducted by Miguel Braganza and Green Essentials on March 19 at the International Centre Goa, Dona Paula, from 2.30 pm to 6.30 pm. Participants with get detailed, first-hand practical experience, along with tips to ensure protection from pests and obtain better yields. The workshop will also have seed exchange and sale of organic and local seeds.

As only 25 seats are available, prior registration is compulsory for which call Karan Manral on 8087000708/2451360 or Arjun Haldankar on 9765404391. Fee of Rs 300 per participant will be charged.

Moira forum’s meet

PANJIM (HND): The Moira Civic and Consumer Forum (MCCF) will hold its monthly meeting on March 19 at the residence of Benedict and Perpect Maciel Pirazona at 4 pm.

The meeting will celebrate World Consumers Day by focussing on the grievance redressal mechanism of various service providers within the public sector and state government issues related to civic amenities will also be taken up.

Gade festival

BICHOLIM (HC): The famous three-night Gade festival, considered to be a game of hide-and-seek between the Gade and Devchar, will be celebrated at Sal-Bicholim from March 20.

The Gade festival is celebrated annually with great fervour in Sal. Thousands of people visit the village to witness the rare event.

The village is slowly taking a festive look with the temple and houses being decorated and the panchayat has stressed upon cleanliness of the village.

The three-day festival will commence on Sunday night and end on Tuesday. It is said that after the festival, people from Sal do not have to fear of ghosts throughout the year as they are tied up by Gade.

Chorao forum’s meet

PANJIM (HND): The Chorao Civic and Consumer Forum (CCCF) will hold its monthly meeting on March 20 at St Bartholomews HS, Chorao, at 4.30 pm.

Apart form issues related to civic amenities, consumer rights and redressal system, shortage of water on the island, World Water Day and role of Village Water and Sanitation Committee, will also be discussed.

Death anniversary

PANJIM (HND): On the occasion of death anniversary of Pranachyarya Dada Vaidya, a renowned physician, a programme will be organised on March 20 at his residence, The Vaidya Niwas at Karmalem, Keri, from 5 pm to 7.30 pm. There will be a talk on the poetic contribution of Dada Vaidya by Prof Krishnaji Kulkarni; screening of short film on Dada Vaidya; musical presentation of Dada’s poems by Karuna Gaonkar and group; presentation of some selected poems of Dada Vaidya.

Invitee poets Ramesh Veluskar, Ashok Borkar alias Pushpagraj, Sanjiv Verenkar, Uday Mhambrey, Swapna Dhupkar, Nilba Khandekar, Nutan Sakhardande, Laxman Krishna Pitre and Sangeeta Abhyankar will also present their poems.

Cerebral palsy workshop

PANJIM (HND): Hanne Marit Bjorgaas, a child and adolescent psychiatrist working in the Department of Child Neurology at Stavanger University, Norway, will deliver an interesting perspective on ‘The Needs of Persons With Cerebral Palsy’ on March 22 at Siddharth Bandodkar Bhavan Charitable Trust Mahalasa Hall, above Axis Bank, near Mahalaxmi Temple, from 2 pm to 4 pm.

Disha Charitable Trust and Sangath are instrumental in organising this short workshop which is open for parents of disabled children and special educators. Those interested should register by March 18 with Disha Charitable Trust office or call 2231028.

SP Sandeep Patil, Additional SP S H Gangareddy and police officials with the recovered jewellery items HERALD CORRESPONDENT BELGAUM, MARCH 17

Belgaum Police has sought the custody of Sameer Shaikh, who was arrested by Ponda Police last month in connection with robbery, chain snatching and other crimes.

Shaikh is also wanted by Belgaum Police for the similar offences he had allegedly committed in Belgaum.

Addressing a press conference, SP Sandeep Patil said Bel-

gaum Police has already placed a plea in the Goa Court for the custody of Shaikh who along with a woman was residing at Ashoknagar area here about a couple of months ago.

Belgaum Police suspects that he is involved in some incidents of chain snatching and robbery which took place last year.

“We will be given Shaikh’s custody soon after interrogation by the Goa Police is over,” DySP GM Desur told Herald.

Meanwhile, Belgaum Police in a joint operation busted a chain snatching and gold robbery racket and have arrested six persons from Sangli district in Maharashtra and other places.

Gold and silver ornaments and a vehicle, with an estimated value of about Rs 20 lakh have been recovered, SP Sandeep Patil told reporters.

The accused have been sent to the judicial custody.

Dr Jorson lays emphasis on EDIP principle HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, MARCH 17

“Explain to the students in simple words what they are about to do at every main point in a session, demonstrate the exercise slowly and with perfect form, get the students to imitate the exercise by mirroring and copying so that they can feel the exercise and get them to practice a few times,” stated Dr Jorson Fernandes at the Central Council of Homoeopathy workshop for lecturers of various homoeopathic colleges in India in New Delhi.

Dwelling on the EDIP (explain, demonstrate, imitate, practice) principle, Dr Jorson, Chairman and Surgeon Examiner of St John Ambulance Association, Goa, emphasised that the thought

GOA

Dr Jorson Fernandes at the workshop organised by Central Council of Homoeopathy for lecturers of various homoeopathic colleges in India, in New Delhi.

process should be always kept simple, trying not to talk and demonstrate at the same time so that one can concentrate on the movement.

A good rule of thumb to present a topic is to provide information using as many of the five senses as possible. At the very least, one should see, hear and

touch the new skill.

The popular teaching mantra for modeling is: “I do, we do, you do.” It is necessary to show how to do something by modeling the skill first.

The trainees were assessed in buzz groups as they performed in groups.

Dr Jorson said that by adapting the EDIP principle it is possible to cut down the amount of worry or time needed to touch or manipulate the client in order for them to get the maximum result from whatever is trying to be achieved.

“By adapting the EDIP principle, it will ensure better training all round and further gain trust with a new client or enhance relationships with existing clients,” Dr Jorson pointed out.

Animal auctions

PANJIM (HND): Directorate of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services department at Government Livestock Farm DhatMollem, will auction 22 surplus and uneconomical animals (Murrah) (male and female), Red Sindhi (male and female). At Fodder Seed Production Farm Kalay, Sanguem, 16 Breeding Bulls (Gir, Cross Bred Sahiwal, Murrah and Red Sindhi) will be auctioned. The auction at Mollem will be held on March 25, from 11 am to 1 pm and at Kalay, Sanguem, on the same day from 3.30 pm to 5 pm. Farmers may inspect the animals on any working day during working hours.

IMA seminar

CURCHOREM (HC): Curchorem, Quepem, Sanguem, Ponda and Margao branches of Indian Medical Association (IMA) in collaboration with MEC, Goa Medical College will organize second joint South Goa IMA Seminar at Hotel Nanutel, Margao, on March 26 at 7.30 pm.

Dr Aniruddha K Purohit, HOD Neurosurgery of Nizam’s Institute Hyderabad, will speak on ‘Science of Laughter and Yoga’, while SETHU Director Dr Nandita D’Souza will speak on ‘Health Problems of Adolescents’.

For registration, interested doctors may contact Dr Jagdish Kakodkar (President of IMA, C&S) or Dr Vinayak Buvaji or Dr. Purnima Usgaonkar (IMA President, Ponda) or Dr Jorson Fernandes (IMA President, Margao) or Dr Rajdatt Timble or Dr Suraj Prabhudesai.

TIdES March 18

High Tide: 0934; 2204 Low Tide: 0336; 1535

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Police-drug nexus: HC pulls up Centre for delaying CBI probe

2 accused in businessman’s kidnapping bid surrender HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

The High Court of Bombay at Goa on Thursday pulled up the Central Government for delaying in passing orders on transferring the police-drug mafia nexus cases to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The division bench comprising of Justices S C Dharmadhikari and F M Reis sharply criticised the Centre, saying “Why don’t you send a team and ask to take over the case? What more you require when the State (Goa Government) has given its consent?”

The Court on February 22 had directed the Government of India to be a party responded in the case.

The bench has specifically asked the Centre to make a statement on when they will comply with the Delhi Police Act and to submit its reply to the High Court by Tuesday, March 22.

The division bench is hearing a petition filed by the National

Students Union of India (NSUI) Goa Unit seeking a CBI probe into the policemen-politiciandrug mafia nexus case in the State.

In the petition, NSUI Goa Chief Sunil Kawathankar demanded that the case be handed over to the Central investigation agency as the conduct of the police officers probing it was doubtful.

When the matter came up for hearing, NSUI legal representative Surendra Desai reiterated that the case probe be monitored by the High Court.

“The policemen who investigated the police-drug mafia nexus cases are themselves accused of being hand-in-gloves in the drugs nexus in Goa,” he said.

Raising concern that Goa’s coastal belt was turning into drug addicts, Desai told the Court that there is a judicial finding confirming nexus.

Chief Secretary Sanjay Srivastava had addressed the two let-

Govt told to appoint PIO at AG’s office

Officials commence aeration process to clean Comba wells

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

Goa State Information Commission in an order on Thursday directed the State Government to appoint a Public Information Officer at Advocate General’s office to answer queries from citizens under RTI Act. GSIC commissioner Motilal Kenny further directed Chief Secretary Sanjay Srivastava that under section 4 of the RTI, all information pertaining AG’s official working are uploaded on Government’s website.

The direction follows a petition by lawyer activist Aires Rodrigues against AG Subodh Kantak for his failure to comply with the provisions of the RTI. In his petition before the Commission, Rodrigues had stated that though the RTI act was enacted to promote transparency and accountability, the AG did not comply with the provisions of the Act for over five years.

With the present order, the commission has hence ruled that AG is the public authority and that he comes within the purview of the RTI. Rodrigues, in his petition had also stated that the AG is a public authority his being a constitutional post and even enjoying cabinet status.

‘60 more routes will make KTCL economical’

HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, MARCH 17

Appointed as a nodal officer to decontaminate the Comba drinking wells, Dr Srikant Mutnuri, Assistant Professor, Biological Sciences, BITS Pilani on Thursday commenced the task of cleaning the wells via aeration.

Deputy Collector Johnson Fernandes said the affected wells will be cleaned through the process of aeration as the presence of oil and grease has been ruled out in the wells.

Asked whether the ongoing process would act as a foolproof to clean up the wells in question,

Fomento CEO Sridhar Kamat discussing with MMC Chief Officer Prasanna Acharya at the Sonsodo waste dumping site.

Photo by Santosh Mirajkar HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, MARCH 17

The Kadamba Transport Corporation Limited (KTCL) will require an additional 60 routes and 53 buses to make its functioning economical, Transport Minister Ramkrishna Dhavlikar said on the floor of the house.

Dhavlikar in his reply has said that the current routes are uneconomical. “Some routes operated by the corporation on trial basis are also found uneconomical. The survey and study of routes is in progress,” the reply reads.

The KTCL currently runs with a fleet of 403 buses of which 306 runs on intra- state routes while 97 on inter-state routes.

The department has recently procured five low floor buses under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM). While 15 more buses are lying idle in a private depot, due to non-availability of funds.

Things appear to have finally started moving at garbage dumping site at Sonsodo.

More than a month after the Margao Municipal Council signed the concession agreement with Fomento, work relating to the segregation of the waste has commenced at the yard in right earnest.

The Margao Municipal Council, if Chief Officer Prasanna Acharya is to be believed, has also appointed Ahmedabadbased consultant, P U Asnani on Wednesday to oversee the ongoing operations, including construction of waste treatment plant at Sonsodo.

Acharya along with Fomento CEO Sridhar Kamat inspected the Sonsodo site on Thursday

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat while rationalising the luxury taxes on room accommodation has reconsidered the tourism cess levied in the last budget session.

In his budget speech, Kamat said, the hotels charging Rs 300 per day will be exempted from luxury tax.

Rooms between Rs 300 to Rs 1500 will pay 5 % tax, between Rs 1500 to Rs 3,000 will pay 8 %, between Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000 will pay 10 per cent while rooms exceeding Rs 5,000 will pay 12 per cent.

Luxury tax on accommodation for commercial purposes will be charged at 5 %.

Johnson said “this is a trial and error method. Aeration is the first method. If it fails to produce the results, then we will resort to shock chlorination to decontaminate the wells”.

The team used a water pump to aerate the well water in the absence of a blower, Johnson said, while ruling the recurrence of iron content in the well.

Dr Mutnuri said the aeration method would help dissolve iron content and kill the iron bacteria responsible for contaminating the well water.

“Examination of the water samples has revealed no pres-

Two of the three accused involved in the kidnapping attempt of a businessman surrendered before the police o n T h u r s d a y. P r a b h a k a r N e r u l ka r a l i a s S a g a r a n d Avinash Naik were eventually arrested.

The third accused is however absconding. 52-year-old Anup Sinha managed to escape from his kidnappers by jumping off the moving car in which he was being kidnapped on Wednesday afternoon.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Deu Benaulikar told reporters that the accused attempted to kidnap the Delhi businessman in a fit of rage because of the property dispute.

But the accused-men said that Anup and they are good friends and they were heading for lunch in Anup’s car on Wednesday when he jumped off the car.

Benaulikar said that the pre-

ence of oil and grease in the well. Aeration should help treat the water”, he added.

“The process of aeration is a simple one. Aeration will help kill the iron bacteria. The water is being aerated and allow it to settle down. If this fails, than shock chlorination will be resorted”, he added.

Dr Mutnuri was appointed the nodal officer after he concluded that scum seen on top of well waters in Comba area was not due to any petroleum products, but was on account of iron bacteria and iron content in water.

Waste segregation begins at Sonsodo

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

CM revises tourism cess levied in last budget session

ters to the Union Home Ministry on January 21 and 31, respectively entrusting CBI to take over the investigations.

However, the notification according consent to transfer the cases came only on February 16, 2011.

While in one case seven policemen were suspended, arrested and released for having close links with Israeli drug lord Yaniv Benaim alias Atala, the second case involved spy cam exp o s e w h e re i n p o l i c e s u b inspector Sunil Gudlar was shown negotiating with two foreign women over the sale of drugs.

NSUI had also requested to hand over Dudu case to the CBI, which has not been considered by the State till date.

Re a c t i n g t o a l l t h i s , Kawathankar said that the State Government is trying to protect themselves by repeatedly saying that Dudu case has been chargesheeted in order to avoid CBI investigation in the matter.

evening to take stock of the situation and the working of the trommel. The MMC Chief Officer expressed his satisfaction work is progressing in complete harmony between the two agencies.

When newsmen questioned over the time scheduled for the construction of the treatment at the site, Acharya said “We are presently completing the formalities and seeking a nod from various agencies, including Forests, TCP, Collector etc for the construction of the plant.

We will definitely see some positive action at the yard by next month”.

Fomento CEO Sridhar Kamat said the trommel has been started on a trial basis and exuded confidence that the existing waste will be tackled within

a fortnight.

Replying to a question, Kamat said work on actual construction of the plant would commence only upon receiving approvals from various government agencies.

He, however, hastened to add that the company would show some results on the ground before the onset of monsoons.

“The trommel in operation has a capacity to treat 30 tonnes of waste per hour. We are in a position to segregate 250-300 tonnes of waste per day”, Kamat added.

Giving details on the garbage treatment plant, Kamat said the plant would cover major portion of the existing dump yard and designed as per MSW Rules. “The plant would be of the size of a football field. It will be totally covered from all side to take care of the bird menace and help waste treatment round the year. The proposed plant is designed to treatment 75 metric tones of waste per day and is one of the best and state-ofthe state plant”, he added.

Incidentally, Kamat said Fomento has taken up the work at Sonsodo as part of its corporate social responsibility though a small plant of less than 300 tons may not be sustainable. “We have not entered Sonsodo with a profit motive in mind. It is all part of our corporate social responsibility”, he asserted.

liminary investigation revealed it was a property dispute which involved transaction of Rs 25lakh. The investigation is underway.

Anup, who is undergoing treatment for hand fracture

and head injuries at Goa Medical College and Hospital, Bambolim had filed a complaint that the accused men assaulted him with fist blows, snatched his car keys and attempted to abduct him in his car.

OHERALDO

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O HERALD O Vol No CXI No: 076 Goa, Friday, 18 March, 2011

Largest largesse in poll Budget

P

rime Minister Manmohan Singh, it is said, single-handedly ushered in a new era in India’s history with his 1991 Union Budget, when he was the Union Finance Minister in the late P V Narasimha Rao’s government.

Eminent scientist Raghunath Mashelkar even called it this country’s ‘second freedom’ during his lecture at the recent D D Kosambi Festival of Ideas.

If one has to similarly categorise Chief Minister Digambar Kamat’s budget in the Legislative Assembly yesterday, one can confidently say that it has ushered in the run up to the scheduled 2012 assembly polls. In fact, it is possible that we may see those elections in the golden jubilee year of Goa’s liberation itself; which the Chief Minister repeatedly invoked during his long. long Budget speech, for which Speaker Pratapsingh Rane had to twice extend the sitting of the House, after holding quick votes on the issue “under Rule 16”.

The CM needed the extra time. The Budget speech was not only full of long quotations; it unveiled goodies for nearly each and every section of society. It is probably the largest ladle of largesse lavished on the people of the state in living memory. Folks, this is election year. Judging from the shower of sops, Goa may elect a new legislative assembly before Mr Kamat (or his successor) presents the next budget.

While the Economic Survey estimated a growth in the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by an incredible 13 per cent, Mr Kamat has predicted that it will go up to an astounding 15 per cent in the coming year. And he has spending schemes to match this soaring statistic.

The budget is packed with sops – for agriculturists, traditional fisherfolk and trawler owners, people living in miningaffected areas, senior citizens suffering from Alzeimer’s Disease, road accident victims, ambulances for rural folk, Anganwadi workers, BPL families, motorcycle pilots and rickshaw operators, women’s self-help groups, minorities, scheduled castes and scheduled tribes, the Dhangar community, sports lovers, panchayat members, school and college students, drop-outs, school teachers, school and college managements, NGOs, cultural institutions, artisans and craftsmen, industrialists, jewellers, ex-servicemen… Very few sections, if any, are left out.

There is a proposal to give Unemployment Allowance of up to Rs1,200 per month for three years to jobless youth registered with the Employment Exchange. Another is a Local Area Development Fund of Rs50 lakh per constituency, to be spent as per the local MLA’s directions. Then there is the proposal to resurrect a scheme first formulated by Leader of the Opposition Manohar Parrikar when he was Chief Minister – to give a computer to each youth leaving school. Mr Kamat called it ‘Laptop II’, to give each student of Std XI a minilaptop with open source software. These schemes may be expensive but, except for the Unemployment Allowance, they seem to have been formulated quite thoughtfully.

Even after proposing such profligate projects, the CM hasn’t worsened the state’s alarming Debt-GDP ratio, which in fact goes down marginally, from 31 per cent to 30 per cent. But this budget balancing is based on a 2 per cent increase in VAT on fuel – part of an optimistic 17 per cent increase in total estimated tax revenues. This, when the current year’s revised estimates show a fall of nearly 2 per cent on last year’s Budget estimates. Whether this year’s 2 per cent increase in growth rate yields 17 per cent more revenue remains to be seen.

A commendable new innovation is an ‘Action Taken Report’ (ATR), to be based on the previous year’s budget announcements. No doubt we will know Mr Kamat’s score for his Budget next March. But all the action may be over by then…!

www.oheraldo.in

Doctor-patient relations: A WHO initiative-II There is a strong need to improve the methods of teaching/learning and assessing of medical ethics, says Dr GLADSToNE A D’coSTA

A

t the meeting of experts convened by the SEARO of the WHO on 15 and 16 February 2011, there were numerous presentations and in depth discussions, based on which, conclusions and recommendations were drawn up.

Conclusions:1. Strengthening doctor-patient relationship should be considered an important element of Health Systems Strengthening. This will lead to improvement in quality of care, efficiency and effectiveness of the health system.

It is not merely a question of economics. Native American Indians have had free health care for nearly a century; the NHS in the UK has been in existence since the 40s. Yet, both systems have failed the target population. Thailand has free health care for malaria; yet only 50 per cent return for follow-up care. It requires attention to several issues, such as medical education, enforcement of medical ethics, patient education and empowerment, laying down an appropriate legal framework, reducing overcrowding at hospitals, and harmonising the functioning of medical councils, health services, universities and social welfare services.

2. There have been several developments that have contributed to the strained doctor-patient relationship. These are:- the commercialisation of medical practice, the unhealthy influence of the pharmaceutical industry, the emergence of for profit hospitals, the ingress of private (as well as public) health insurance, inadequate health literacy and the non-holistic approach of the medical system.

3. Health care users have numerous expectations: – good standards, accessibility, non-discrimination, transparency, accountability and information.

4. Application of principles of PHC to strengthen Health Systems at all levels will contribute to improved doctor-patient relationship. This includes appropriate investment, encouraging self care, optimising health care by ‘task shifting’, and strengthening the institution of the ‘family doctor’.

5. Medical Councils need to shift their focus from ‘regulating doctors’ to ‘protecting patients’.

6. There is a strong need to improve the methods of teaching/learning and assessing of medical ethics, medical etiquette and communication skills among medical students. Appropriate attitudes and skills in verbal and written communication should be developed. The need for professionalism should be encouraged. Modern teaching/learning methods should be used e.g., small group teaching, problem-based learning, parables, case scenarios, etc.

Communication takes place at an emotional plane, a

Michael Vaz, Merces

I am an ex student of an English medium school. It is very sad to note that the management of most unaided recognised English medium schools blindfold parents and hike the fee structure at frequent intervals, with an invalid excuse to pay the teachers.

But in reality, they are filling their own pockets. Some of these teachers with loads of experience are paid a paltry salary without any benefit of provident fund, gratuity or other allowances.

As the start of the academic year 2011 is fast approaching, it is high time that parents demand that school managements ensure better remuneration to teachers who strive so hard to make our children better citizens of this country.

The accident that recently occurred on the Miramar-Dona Paula road wherein a 36year-old woman walking by the side of the road, lost her life when a car went off the road, and then rammed against her, is yet another grim reminder of an appalling fatal accident.

Simply imposing signboards on speed limits will not suffice the purpose. Strict implementation is more important. Installation of CCTVs at a number of points, and their strict monitoring, coupled with stringent fines should be enforced to prevent fatal accidents.

Bill to reorganise army

Towards the pursuance of their works met some days earlier the Committee was entrusted with the Bill to reorganise the Overseas Army.

‘0 Ultramar’ publication

From 10th of the current month our esteemed colleague ‘0 Ultramar’ from the Vila de Margao started its publication which they had to close down due to pestilence assailing the Vila.

Pay back time

The newspapers from Orlim which were earlier smashed with pompous prose as and counteract, have begun to nurture fields of insults and ignominy to pay back in the same coin.

Only two deputies

It is reported that the new electoral reforms will not give more than 2 deputies to represent our State in the Portuguese Parliament.

Love the language Jonas Correia, Aldona Many Goans are still undecided about the script to be adopted for Konkani. Besides Roman and Devnagri, Konkani is also written in Tulu, Kannad, Malayalam, and Gujarati scripts by Goans settled in other states.

What is important is our love for the language and the willingness to speak it at all times. A fine example is Sonia Gandhi who speaks chaste Hindi, though it is scripted in Roman for her speeches. So choose your own script but speak the language which is vital for Goan survival.

Rachol-Shiroda bridge Tulsidas Malkarnekar, Margao Important colleges such as homeopathy, information technology, catering etc., are located in Shiroda which is now a fast developing city. Also, thousands of devotees visit the deity on no moon day festival and offer prayers. Many come to Margao for office/college and other business work.

The route via Rachol by crossing the ferry is shorter, and time saving, but only for those having their own vehicles. The sick, aged and senior citizens have to take the long route.

A bridge to connect Rachol-Shiroda is the only way to bring these two places closer and alleviate the day-to-day problems faced by the common man. It will serve as a connecting link and alternative route to connect North-South areas in case of an

10. In the era of a growing consumer protection environment, trust needs to be built between doctors and patients. It is important to realise that both patients and doctors have rights and responsibilities. Patient complaint redressal mechanisms need to be introduced at point of service delivery; if necessary, with exit interviews. Always bearing in mind that expressed dissatisfaction is only the tip of the iceberg, as only 4% complain.

11. Patients expect to be treated with dignity and respect for their time. A large proportion of disputes between doctors and patients are the consequence of health system failures rather than the incompetence of the doctor.

12. Health facilities must develop a charter of services for patients and use effective communication to familiarise users with their rights and responsibilities.

Recommendations:1. In the context of strengthening doctor-patient relationship, Member states should: a) Acknowledge that health is a fundamental right and that everyone has a right to receive basic health services appropriate to his needs and cultural beliefs. b) Revisit medical curricula to strengthen teaching/learning using appropriate methods and assessments of professional ethics and communications skills in medical schools and institutions providing post-graduate education. c) Institutionalise CMEs on socio-cultural aspects of medical practice. d) Work towards improving patient education and empowerment through various measures including: -Harmonise and strengthen the collaboration between medical councils, medical schools and medical associations to reorient their roles to focus on patient protection and building of a culture that promotes caring, compassionate, and respectful doctor- patient

interaction.

- Repetitive exposure to these concepts should be planned to achieve these goals.

- Role models should be part of this culture. e) Develop/strengthen and widely disseminate patients’ charter. f) Establish grievance redressal mechanisms at point of service. g) Establish forums for sharing of experiences/perspectives between patients and doctors. h) Establish a legal framework that supports a good Doctor-Patient Relationship. i) Engage the media to convey appropriate and unbiased health care information and health-services in user-friendly language. j) Continue their efforts for Health Systems Strengthening based on PHC by focusing on:-Appropriate allocations for primary health care.

-Strengthening community education and empowerment with emphasis on promoting self care.

-Work towards promoting development and increased utilisation of family doctors.

-Rationalise utilisation of services of doctors.

Examine feasibility of and implement task-shifting for optimal utilisation of doctor’s services.

-Strengthen referral system. k) Revisit the regulatory framework to strengthen regulation of influence of industry on medical profession. l) Work with medical councils to regularly review and update the code of ethics for medical practitioners so as to keep it abreast with current social concepts. m) To consider developing a national document on best-practices on doctor-patient relationship.

Recommendations for WHO:1. Develop a prototype patients’ charter and field test it in different settings within the region.

2. Support qualitative and quantitative research in member states to support interventions for strengthening doctor patient relationship.

3. Finalise the strategic framework based on deliberations during the meeting.

4. Support national efforts to strengthen doctorpatient elationship.

To conclude, there must be increased awareness all round. More education and less medication; tempered by the fact that true success lies not in the learning but in its application for the benefit of mankind.

The author gratefully acknowledges the input from the participants during the discussions at the WHO meeting.

(The author is a Member, National Executive Committee, Voluntary health Association of India.)

The Ark & its Architect

T

Ramesh Naik, Margao

18 March 1911

cultural plane and an intellectual plane. Patients are more concerned and affected by the doctors’ interpersonal skills rather than their medical competence.

Therefore, communication must take place in a language and manner that the patient understands. This reflects a demand for more humanistic care. Doctors interrupt the patients opening statement after an average of 18 seconds. Psychiatric problems are missed in 50 per cent cases and psycho-social concerns ignored. This precipitates uncertainty, lack of information/explanation, and little attention to patients’ views on management; aggravating anxiety and dissatisfaction. Commercialisation of medical education, with poor monitoring is a major road block to implementing remedial programs in medical schools.

7. It is necessary for the health system to engage with and maintain a good relationship and dialogue with the media to partner in improving health literacy, and to encourage fair and balanced reporting of health issues. This will bring expectations from the health care system and its providers to more realistic levels.

8. Health care is increasingly becoming an area of conflict. It is getting more commercialised, technology intensive and therefore more costly. The commercial interests of industry and insurance companies impact doctor-patient relationships and therefore need to be addressed, and disconnected.

9. There is evidence to indicate that social, cultural, economic and ethnic factors influence doctor-patient relationships. We practice medicine of western origin and instruct our students on medical ethics of western orientation, whilst treating a patient population that is predominantly Asian in ethos and culturally heterogeneous. To overcome barriers, health systems can consider innovations like mobile health service, interpreters in hospitals and longer OPD hours.

wo years ago, Noah was mending his nets outside his beach-hut when there was a flash of lightning followed by a booming voice like thunder. It was God, the Father, saying, “Noah, in two years’ time, I will flood the earth and destroy everybody. I will only save you and your family and one pair of all living creatures.” God then faxed Noah the blueprints for a huge wooden boat to be built and stocked it to last out the flood. Last Sunday, I sat with Noah, for moral support, next to his incomplete boat. He was shivering in fright when once again, God appeared.

He was absolutely livid at the sight of Noah trying to hide near the incomplete boat. God said, “Noah, come forth.” But in Noah’s condition, he would not even be able to come fifth. He was speechless as God asked for an explanation. I put my arm on Noah’s shoulder and whispered in his ear that he should speak up for himself. It took some moments for Noah to pull himself together, but soon he spoke with growing confidence.

He said: “Lord, I started the work immediately. I submitted your plan to the Town and Country Planning Department. The TCP rejected your blueprints as you are not recognised by them. So I wasted three months and some money by going to a TCP recognised architect.

“As soon as I laid the keel, our vigilant Sarpanch came with an official from some important government department. They pulled out their measuring tapes to check some distances. They then asked me to stop all

Ensuring road safety

PRIMEIRO DIARIO NAS COLONIAS PORTUGEZAS

HippocrATic oATH

Breakfast of Champions

Give them better salaries

100 Years Ago

OPINION

work because the construction was within 200 metres of the High Tide Line. They relented after Dr Claude Alvares pointed out that the entire construction was made of bio-degradable material and did not have a foundation.

Here, I lost another six weeks.

The Captain of Ports tried to stop work since I had no permission from his Department. So I told him he had no jurisdiction for constructions on the land. He is now waiting for me to try to float it out to sea. He is in for a nasty surprise, Lord! Soon thereafter, I received a notice from the Mercantile Marine Department asking me what flag I would be sailing under. They threatened me with all kinds of dire consequences. So I reminded them about the ‘River Princess’”. That ship had no flag from either Panama, Liberia, Vanuatu or even Timbucktoo. Lord, you can see how they were wearing me down. Then, I could not find any Goan carpenters and Shipwrights to build the boat. So I had to get clearance from the Labour Department and the Unions to hire more than 20 per cent Kanadians. And yet, so many of our Goans have become Canadians.

“Now at last, I thought, I was on the home stretch. I lit a beedi as I surveyed the work going on. There was a commotion and a gang of four women came down on me like a ton of bricks. I received a collective earbashing from these ladies. It was only after I gave them a tour of the incomplete boat that they suddenly calmed down. They were at last

Torchbearer of human rights?

Melson FM Louis, Margao

The Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile, observed the 52nd anniversary of the Tibetan uprising day against Chinese rule on 10 March 2011.

What is United States of America doing to liberate Tibet from the clutches of oppressive China which always projects itself as the torchbearers of human rights in the world? The Chinese government, in the past, have unleashed campaigns against Tibetan culture and branded Buddhism as a ‘foreign culture’? But Buddhism is very much apart of the identity of Tibet and its people. It vindicates the truth that Tibet was never a part of China.

United States of America, with the help of member countries of the United Nations, should support the Tibetans in their long struggle for freedom.

Soul searching needed Antonio Zito Godinho, Panjim It is sad that a group PINC (Panajites for a change) was a loser all the way in the recently held CCP elections. They had to eat the humble pie everywhere as they could not secure a single candidate’s victory. BJP’s candidates of course, won because of their political affiliation. Surendra and Ruth Furtado won as in the previous elections on their own merits. So, what is the bravado all about? Earlier, when Dr Oscar came to Margao during the elections, sadly, all the candidates he backed as ‘ex-Goa Bachao Abhyan Convenor’ lost. Some soul searching may be called for.

Off to a bad start Aires Rodrigues, Ribandar That Panjim’s new Mayor and Deputy Mayor were selected at a meeting in Taleigao outside the jurisdiction of Corporation of City of Panaji, is a very bad start by the new team. It is very important that the CCP is not remote controlled by MLAs. The Mayor and the 29 Corporators with its full authority and control, should seek the advice

convinced that I was not building another floating Casino. It felt like the calm before a storm. Then Lord, as directed by you, I started to assemble the animals. In a flash, I was visited by an animal activist, who claimed that my action was a violation of Animal Rights and her own rights.

She has spent years of her life saving hundreds of stray dogs whilst I am quite content with saving two. Lord, she cannot bear to see dogs being drowned and so, she filed a Writ Petition in the High Court. Fortunately, the PWD Chief Engineer-storm drains, filed an affidavit saying that they are adept at dealing with floods since Goa gets flooded every time there is a 10 minute downpour.

“Yesterday, Lord, I got summons from the Chief Hydrographer, Coast Guard, Navy and the Inland Waterways Authority of India. They have asked me to demarcate the proposed flood plain for the impending flood.

I will soon be sending them copies of the World Map.” Suddenly, there was a blinding flash of light. The dark clouds parted. A blue sky was exposed. The sun smiled and in the distance, we saw a rainbow.

Noah and I both sang, “Praise the Lord, we are saved by Him.” Then God laughed loudly and said, “Saved you? You must be joking! With the kind of jokers you have administering your land, there is no need for me to destroy anything I have created. You lot are doing a marvellous job.”

Letters to the Editor

Letter of the Day

emergency. It is felt that the present PWD Minister will come to our rescue and relieve us from our hardships.

By Anthony Simoes

and guidance of current and former MLA’s and also former corporators amongst others. But the current corporators have to be in command. They should also take the public into confidence in all they do, rather than dance to the tunes of the MLAs.

Panjim CCP elections Arwin Mesquita, UAE On the positive side, I appreciate the efforts of all concerned and voters involved in reducing the potential winning margin of the Monserrate panel, at the recently held CCP elections. On the negative side, for those who have voted for the latter panel, I hold my head in disgust as to how people with a corrupt conscience, no values and selfish motives have voted for known anti-Goans and their associates; who not only concretised a beautiful village, but also have a major hand in the current rapid destruction of our beautiful state. Nevertheless, for true Goans, the fight for Goa and its issues must carry on.

Advice to doctors Mathew De Silva, Porvorim This has reference to the call made by some doctors from Panjim with regard to CCP elections. I do not know why these doctors are interested in a certain panel, when they

were in power a few years back for a full term, and did nothing. Doctors should dedicate their time and lives to taking care of people’s health and saving lives. For this purpose, these doctors must upgrade their medical knowledge which by now, has become rusty and outdated, by attending medical seminars in the US/Europe to serve patients better. I would advise these doctors not to dabble in politics, since it does not fit into their scheme of things.

Babush panel triumphs Jerry Fernandes, Saligao I would like to congratulate the Taleigao strongman, Babush Monserrate for his victory at the recently concluded CCP elections.

After having won by a slender majority, the citizens of Fontainhas and other areas can now live in peace for another five years.

I just hope that he leaves his most controversial past behind, sticks to his words, gets going and carries on some genuine all-round development, with an open mind for the betterment of Panjim, in the years to come. So, here’s wishing him ‘all the very best.’

A victory well deserved Noel D, Reis Magos In the recently concluded CCP elections, it was winning that mattered since it was a well deserved victory for the panel floated

by Babush. He has emerged as a saviour and it is hoped that he does something for the betterment of Panjim.

Inept UN Secretary-General Diogo Furtado, Utorda We have read news about Somali pirates capturing an Indian ship and detaining the crew of 11 Indians and 17 others. Hijacking was done on high seas in olden times, when there was no control over the nations of the world. But we now have the UN, who has the Secretary-General to look after the affairs of the nations of the world. If the nations affairs are not efficiently handled by him, he should resign and pave the way for others to perform to everyone’s expectations.

Paths of Wisdom

Turn your faces aside

By Samir Khan Buraida (May Allah be pleased with him) one of Prophet Muhammad’s (Peace be upon him) Companion relates that the Holy Messenger of Allah said to Ali (May Allah be pleased with him): “If you look at a woman inadvertently, turn your face.

Do not gaze at her again. The first look was yours but the second wasn’t.”

(Abu Dawood) Islam lays the foundation of a very solid, morally healthy and pious society.

The entire gamut of Islam aims at making man of man.

That is why Islam not only forbids fornication and all other sexual perversions but also cuts at the very root of sexual crimes. The Holy Messenger (Peace be upon him) prohibited the believers from such ways and means as may lead them to the commission of crimes.

He prohibited free intermingling and socializing of sexes besides lustful looks as a precaution to one’s going astray. In day-to-day life, at markets and other public places, there is every possibility that a man may come across and catch sight of a woman. Here the Holy Messenger (Peace be upon him) teaches that the first look is advertent and unavoidable. But if he turns a second look upon her, it would unquestionably be intentional, duly prompted by the greatest enemy of man, Satan.

Keeping in view the weakness in human psychology, this commandment of Allah’s Messenger directs a person to save himself from falling prey to the trappings of the devil.

Don’t blame MLAs D S Fernandes, Cuncolim This is with reference to the letter ‘Goans -Wake up now’ by Shaikh Zameer (Herald, 15 March).

MLAs are not to be blamed for all this, instead they are here to improve the development in the state. Hats off to them.

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OHERALDO

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GOA, FRIDAY 18 MARCH, 2011

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Ghost of bribes for MPs returns to haunt govt PTI NEW DELHI, MARCH 17

The ghost of bribes for MPs’ votes returned to haunt the government on Thursday with the entire Opposition demanding its resignation over allegations that UPA-I purchased the support of lawmakers to survive

the trial of strength at the height of crisis over Indo-US nuclear deal in 2008.

On top of several scams that had surfaced in the last few months, the government faced a torrid time in Parliament today with Opposition targeting it on the manner in which it won the

vote of confidence in 2008 after the Left parties had withdrawn support to it opposing the IndoUS nuclear deal.

Both the Houses of Parliament were repeatedly rocked by uproar and adjournments by the Opposition members who demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his government saying it did not have any right to continue even for a moment as it was surviving on “political and moral sin”.

The Right and the Left combined in Parliament whenever it met during the day to launch an assault armed with the claim in a US diplomatic cable revealed by Wikileaks that an aide of former Union Minister Satish Sharma had shown to the diplomat currency chests that were part of Rs 50 crore to Rs 60 crore

money collected by Congress to purchase MPs for the vote in the Lok Sabha.

The only defence that the government came out with was when Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee told Parliament that a diplomat’s cable enjoyed immunity and he could not confirm or deny its contents.

“Each Lok Sabha is sovereign in its tenure. What happened in the 14th Lok Sabha cannot be judged during the tenure of the present House. Government of the day is accountable to the 15th Lok Sabha and not to the 14th Lok Sabha.

“Whatever has happened in the 14th Lok Sabha has come to an end with the end of its tenure,” the Leader of the House said but the opposition members were not in a mood to accept his contention.

FROM PAGE 1

Budget does a poll vault

Health

l Alzheimers home to be established for care of affected people.

It will be located at Monte Hill, Margao. (Provision of Rs 100 lakh). l 50 per cent assistance for purchase of artificial limbs. l 108 services to be expanded with purchase of new ambulances to cover new operational areas.

Industries

l Benefits for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise to obtain Credit scheme. These units would be encouraged to go for independent credit rating having affiliations with agencies SIDBI and IDBI. l Scheme for allotting small industrial plots at 20 per cent concession. Some of the plots to be reserved for SC/ST category and women. l State awards for best entrepreneurs. l MSMEs with Rs 10 crore turnover to be eligible for Preferential Purchase Scheme.

Unorganised Sector

l Pensions for farmers, labourers, fishermen, taxi drivers, motorcycle pilots, anganwadi workers etc of Rs 2000 pension after the age of 60 years.

Casinos

l Casino operations will now be governed by a special regulation and a gaming commission and also recommending the use of standardised software to calibrate the gaming machines.

Social Welfare

l One time retirement benefit for anganwadi workers and helpers to be increased to Rs 2 lakh and Rs 1 lakh respectively. l One time honorarium of Rs 25,000 to bhadels, who have put in atleast five years of service. l Assistance under Indira Awas Yojana to be increased to Rs 25,000. l One time assistance of Rs 2 lakh to the senior citizens associations in Goa. l Government recognised association of motorcycle pilot auto rickshaw owners and private bus operators to be provided one-time assistance of Rs 1 lakh. l Subsidy for purchase of auto rickshaw increased from Rs 20,000 to Rs 40,000. Subsidy for replacement of tyres for bus operators. l Loans for self help groups at 4 per cent per annum. l Minority finance development corporation to be established.

Recognition of Armed Forces

l Incentives for Goans who join armed services ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 25,000 depending on designation and term of service. l Ex-servicemen and widows with 15 years residence exempted from paying VAT on purchase of vehicles for personal use.

Iran sends rocket, capsule into space AFP TEHRAN, MARCH 17

Iran has launched a rocket into space carrying a test capsule designed to house an animal, the official IRNA news agency today said, amid Western concerns over Tehran's scientific advances.

The Kavoshgar-4 rocket was launched without fanfare on March 15, the report said, citing the president's office.

The capsule, unveiled by President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on February 7, is designed to carry a monkey but there were no living creatures on board, IRNA added.

“This important scientific experiment was carried out on Esfand 24 (March 15) by the Iranian Space Agency,” IRNA said.

Iran had announced it would conduct the launch before the end of Iranian year on March 21. The space agency managed to “test the system performance... the launch platform, engine, electronic and telemetry systems and the system of separation” between the rocket and its load, according to IRNA. Iran put a satellite into orbit in 2009 and sent small animals into space in 2010.

OHERALDO

INDIA

Pg11 GOA, FRIDAY, 18 FEBRUARY, 2011

SC to hear plea for CBI probe into Batcha’s death PTI NEW DELHI, MARCH 17

The mysterious death of former telecom minister A Raja's close aide Sadiq Batcha was today brought to the notice of the Supreme Court, which agreed to hear the plea for a CBI probe in the matter.

Appearing for NGO Centre for Public Interest Litigation, on whose plea a CBI probe was directed into the 2G scam, advocate Prashant Bhushan pleaded before the court that the death is related with the scam and should also be probed by the investigating agency.

He also mentioned that the state government has favoured a CBI probe into Batcha's death.

A bench of Justices G S Singhvi

Batcha died of asphyxia: doctor PTI CHENNAI, MARCH 17

The death of former Telecom Minister A Raja's key aide Sadiq Batcha was due to asphyxia and his body showed compression of the neck with hanging mark, a doctor who conducted the post-mortem said today.

"We cannot say now whether it was suicide or murder..the report will be ready in two weeks," Dr V Dekal of the Government Royapettah Hospital, where the autopsy was conducted, said.

"The death was caused due to asphyxia but the cause of that cannot be confirmed till the forensic report is received," he told reporters here, adding that the entire autopsy was videographed.

"Until and unless the results come you cannot concretely tell whether it is a suicide or not. As of now, death is due to asphyxia...that is deficiency of oxygen in the tissue. So, compression of the neck could be the reason for this asphyxia, but exactly whether it was suicide.

"The hanging mark, anti-mortem or post-mortem, before death or after death, has to be confirmed by microscopic examination. Once the results come we will be concretely able to able to tell whether it is a case of hanging," he said.

The doctor said, "Mark of hanging was only there, no other external injury was there."

A team of doctors performed the autopsy at the hospital here for nearly three hours.

Some angry relatives of Batcha, who was found hanging at his house yesterday, shouted slogans against the media and police pacified them.

and A K Ganguly, while agreeing to hear his plea, said, "Wait till lunch or tomorrow morning as some development might take place during the day."

Bhushan said he would bring the matter before the bench again at 2 PM. 47-year-old Batcha died in mysterious circumstances at his home in South Chennai yesterday and his wife claimed that he committed suicide "unable to cope with the pressure" of the probe in the case.

Batcha was the Managing Director of Greenhouse Promoters, a firm under the scanner of the CBI as well as the Enforcement Directorate in connection with the spectrum allocation scam.

He was said to have been found hanging in his house in Vannia Teynampet in South Chennai by his wife and his driver around 1300 hours.

The CBI and the ED had conducted searches at his official and residential premises here in December. He was called for questioning four times since then.

The possibility of his firms acting as a front for the former minister was being looked into.

US should stop looking at J&K through security prism, says Omar PTI JAMMU/SRINAGAR, MARCH 17

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said the US should stop looking at the state only through the "prism of security" and should identify ways for extending its expertise in capacity building, environment projects and other areas.

"The US should stop looking at Jammu and Kashmir only through a security prism and should have a look at normal activities which includes helping in capacity building and providing expertise in environmental projects," Omar said after US Ambassador to India Timothy J Roemer called on him at his residence here.

During the hour-long meeting, the Chief

Minister said Jammu and Kashmir stands as the biggest beneficiary of the better relations between India and Pakistan.

"We stand as the biggest beneficiary of good relations between India and Pakistan and are worst sufferers in case of a standoff," he said.

Roemer, who arrived here this morning on a two-day visit to the state, reiterated the statement of President Barak Obama that the

US was interested in better relations between India and Pakistan and that Kashmir issue was a bilateral matter between the two nations.

The two leaders also discussed the security situation in the state before the Ambassador flew to Kashmir.

Political observers feel that his meeting with the Chief Minister was a clear message to separatist leaders -- moderate as well as hardline -- that the US will not support any group indulging in violence.

Roemer will not be meeting leaders of any other political party or their representatives including that of the state's main opposition PDP. He has confined his engagements to meeting school children and non-political NGOs.

Physics

Newton’s First Law of Motion

“An object at rest will remain at rest unless acted on by an unbalanced force. An object in motion continues in motion with the same speed and in the same direction unless acted upon by an unbalanced force.”

This law is often called "the law of inertia".

What does this mean?

This means that there is a natural tendency of objects to keep on doing what they're doing. All objects resist changes in their state of motion. In the absence of an unbalanced force, an object in motion will maintain this state of motion.

Everyday Applications of Newton's First Law

There are many applications of Newton's first law of motion. Consider some of your experiences in an automobile. Have you ever observed the behavior of coffee in a coffee cup filled to the rim while starting a car from rest or while bringing a car to rest from a state of motion? Coffee "keeps on doing what it is doing". When you accelerate a car from rest, the road provides an unbalanced force on the spinning wheels to push the car forward; yet the coffee (that was at rest) wants to stay at rest. While the car accelerates forward, the coffee remains in the same position; subsequently, the car accelerates out from under the coffee and the coffee spills in your lap.

On the other hand, when braking from

a state of motion the coffee continues forward with the same speed and in the same direction, ultimately hitting the windshield or the dash. Coffee in motion stays in motion.

Try This At Home

Acquire a metal coat hanger for which you have permission to destroy. Pull the coat hanger apart. Using duct tape, attach two tennis balls to opposite ends of the coat hanger. Bend the hanger so that there is a flat part that balances on the head of a person. The ends of the hanger with the tennis balls should hang low (below the balancing point). Place the hanger on your head and balance it. Then quickly spin in a circle. What do the tennis balls do?

For instance: • If at rest, they will continue in this same state of rest.

• If in motion with an eastward velocity of 5 m/s, they will continue in this same state of motion (5 m/s East).

• If in motion with a leftward velocity of 2 m/s, they will continue in this same state of motion (2 m/s, left).

Contact Us:

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Nearly 5000 Indians leave Japan PTI NEW DELHI, MARCH 17

Nearly 5,000 Indians, out of a 25,000-strong community based in Japan, have already left that country in the aftermath of tsunami caused by a massive earthquake last week.

"It is difficult to give the exact number of Indians who have left so far as they are leaving from various airports apart from Tokyo. But the estimates are that the number at present is between 4,000 to 5,000," official sources told PTI. They said the government was closely monitoring the situation in Japan, which is reeling under the devastation caused by the tsunami and earthquake on March 11.

"It is a fast evolving situation.

No one can say what will happen in next 24 or 48 hours," they said.

The approximately 25,000 Indians in Japan were concentrated in the Kanto and Kansai regions.

Meanwhile, after the first consignment of relief material, comprising woolen blankets, sent to the devastation-hit country, India has offered to despatch a team of National Disaster Management Authority and a response from Japan is awaited.

Why is PM silent on WikiLeaks expose: Left parties PTI NEW DELHI, MARCH 17

Left parties today questioned the silence of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in the wake of fresh WikiLeaks expose suggesting that MPs were bribed by the UPA to win the 2008 trust vote over the Indo-US nuclear deal.

"The Prime Minister must come and explain. Today was his day in the Rajya Sabha and he was not present," CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury told reporters.

The party also demanded registration of a case in the 'cashfor-vote' scam.

In a statement, the party Polit Bureau said the report sent by US Charge d'Affaires Steven White should be the basis for filing an FIR and initiating an investigation against Satish Sharma and his aide Nachiketa Kapur, who were named in the diplomatic cable.

The WikiLeaks expose, published in The Hindu, confirmed what the Left parties had been saying in 2008 that MPs were bribed to vote in favour of the government, Yechury said.

"It is a humongous indictment of the Congress and the UPA government," he said and de-

Obama lobbies for India to buy American war aircraft DELHI BUREAU NEW DELHI, MARCH 17

In a top secret letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, US President Barack Obama has lobbied for the Indian Air Force to

buy the American Boeing and Lockheed combat aircraft, offering to provide the latest radar technology with them, even as India readies to finalise the crucial big budget purchases.

He has stressed that the technology being offered on the platter is "only provided to our closest allies and partners" and it will exceed expectations of the IAF. The technology he is talking about, as per the letter dated February 4, is "the advanced systems including the operationally proven US Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars."

The letter urges the Prime Minister that the Indian government give full consideration to the commercial, technical and strategic merits of the US proposals for the IAF's multi-role combat aircraft tender.

"We are committed to continuing to offer India superior

technology, including efforts to jointly develop the finest cutting edge technologies," says the leaked White House letter, pointing out that the offer from the US government is to sell to India "two of the most advanced multi mission combat aircraft in the world -- the Boeing F/A 18IN and the Lockheed Martin F 16IN." President Obama stressed that "these aircraft have a demonstrated qualitative military advantage over any current fourth generation plus aircraft, without the associated developmental or technical risks and both aircraft have an unmatched track record for reliability, resulting in lower operating and maintenance costs."

His persuasive letter also stresses that the American proposals "will dramatically enhance India's own aerospace industrial base and defence capabilities" and "additionally you can be confident in the probity and transparency of doing business with American Companies."

ANTONY SCUTTLES: In pursuance of Obama's letter, the US was sending its Secretary of State and Secretary of Defence to Delhi for the strategic dialogue and to remove any misgivings India still may have on dealing with the Americans.

Their visits have been, however, put on hold following Defence Minister A K Anthony who claimed he would not meet any one of them lest he is accused of getting influenced by them at a time when the defence deals are at the crucial stage of finalisation.

Chidu concerned over use of drugs by students PTI NEW DELHI, MARCH 17

Home Minister P Chidambaram today voiced concern over usage of drugs in rave parties and educational institutions, saying India has turned into a big market of narcotics.

"Drugs are sold to students of many colleges and schools.

This is as big as any internal security problem," he said addressing the Silver Jubilee function of Narcotics Control Bureau.

Chidambaram said every study and research has indicated that many students have experimented with drugs and drugs trafficking has increased immensely.

"The use of cocaine and other drugs and drugs trafficking have increased in last five years. This is a reflection of our inadequate response on this," he said.

The Home Minister said scores of big rave parties were organised all over the country in recent time in which drugs have been used.

Chidambaram said India is located in between two countries which are large producers of narcotics and anything which is going to the golden triangle and golden crescent is going through

India, resulting in India itself becoming a big market of these drugs.

"The problem is only becoming worse in the last few years.

We need to wake up and use our resources to curb this menace," he said.

The Home Minister said the NCB is "hopelessly" understaffed and the government was taking urgent steps to augment the NCB staff strength.

"Two years ago we had 421 officials. The strength has doubled in two years. I expect to double it in next two years and double of that in the two years after that," he said.

He also said like India, the United States too is facing a very big challenge of drug trafficking.

n It is a humongous indictment of the Congress and the UPA government. manded an investigation into the matter by the CBI. Yechury dubbed the revelations in the expose as an act of "gross moral degeneration and crass political opportunism" and undermined Indian democracy.

He wanted to know why investigation in the cash-for-votes scam did not continue. "Was it because it would have embarrased the government and the principal opposition," Yechury asked.

The CPI(M) leader was addressing a press conference which was attended by Gurudas Dasgupta and D Raja (CPI), former Prime Minister H D Devegowda (JDS), Nama Nageshwara Rao (TDP) and Shailendra Kumar (SP).

Dasgupta attacked Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee's remarks in the Rajya Sabha that

the matter of the 14th Lok Sabha could not be discussed in the current Lok Sabha.

"It is the same government that is in power, the same Prime Minister heads the government.

Therefore it is the moral responsibility of the government to prove that they are clean," he said.

"It is not a legal question. It is a moral question and an ethical question," he said.

Dasgupta accused Mukherjee of concocting the argument by asking the opposition to move court on the matter.

"We shall not go to court. This is a matter for Parliament do decide. The judiciary does not run the country.

The government runs it and the government has to answer," he said.

TDP's Nama Nageshwara Rao said the UPA had committed a murder of democracy by buying votes for its survival.

Biz12:Pg12 3/17/2011 11:57 PM Page 1

OHERALDO

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BIZ

GOA, FRIDAY, 18 MARCH, 2011

RBI hikes key rates; home, auto loans to cost more PTI MUMBAI, MARCH 17

Borrowers will have to pay

more for their home and auto loans as the Reserve Bank today announced an increase

of 25 basis points in key policy

rates-- 8th hike in one year--in a bid to contain spiraling prices of essential commodities.

Bankers said they will take a call on rates next month but ruled out an immediate hike in interest rates.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in its mid-quarterly policy review raised repo (short-term lending) and reverse repo (borrowing) rates to 6.75 and 5.75 per cent respectively.

RBI injects liquidity through repo rate, while it absorbs funds through reverse repo window.

Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia welcomed the decision, but India Inc expressed fears that the move would hurt growth.

The RBI move apparently dampened the investor sentiment. Reacting to hike in policy rates, the Bombay Stock Exchange benchmark Sensex

12 more banks to offer IMPS PTI HYDERABAD, MARCH 17

The Inter Bank Mobile Payment Service (IMPS) which is presently offered by 13 banks in the country is expected to be extended by a dozen more banks by the end of the fiscal, according to the Mobile Payment Forum of India (MPFI).

"The switching service of mobile payment transactions across banks is currently provided by the National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) and Settlement of funds is by the Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).IMPS is presently offered by 13 Banks and 12 more are expected to offer the same by the end of March 2011," MPFI said.

MPFI is a joint initiative by RTBI (Rural Technology and Business Incubator) of IITMadras and IDRBT (Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology).

Customers find IMPS very convenient, and useful not only to know account balance status but also to do funds transfer from anywhere and anytime, MPFI said in a statement.

Toiling in soil with heart and soul

I

By BharaTI Pawaskar

magine a 75-year-old man climbing uphill to show the plantations of kokum, coconuts, cashews and mangoes.

He walks and walks to show the natural springs and water bodies that lay all over his land.

And he talks and talks about his trees with a childlike joy lighting his innocent face. Meet Shrihari Subrai Naik Kurade, a progressive farmer from South Goa who loves farming from heart. Physically active at this age when most retire, Shrihari likes to experiment. He plants and waters. Everything he does has a touch of fineness and a system.

Ask him what he cannot offer you… areca nuts, black pepper, turmeric, ginger, pineapples, black jamun, watermelons, mash melons, bananas, guavas, chickoos, gourds, rice, cashew nuts, papaya, tender coconuts, mangoes, jackfruits, tamarind, kokum and flowers, he has them all, scattered at various places in Sanguem and Quepem. Forest species of teak wood, bamboo and eucalyptus trees decorate his land. Visiting these places to see the fruits and nuts gives one pure pleasure. Living a life close to nature Shrihari has been into farming since he was a teenager. But this urge to sow and reap grew with age. The need to support the family also pressed and pushed him towards Mother Earth. Once he tried to serve her with his heart and soul, there was no looking back. She returned in bountiful. “I lost my father when I was six. My mother always complained, we have so much land still we have not enough to feed our family.

This made me think from a tender age. At 15, I turned to Mother Earth. At 75 today, I have no regrets,” Shrihari is visibly emotional but content.

With total 20 farm hands he personally toils in his soil.

“This year my rubber production is touching 9.5 tonnes and the price it will fetch me is double. Rubber prices have gone up from 100-110 per kilo

Awards and prizes

Kurade in his cashew plantation.

last year to 200-230 this year.

My buyer is from Kundapur who pays in cash. This will help clear all my previous debts with this earning,” Shrihari happily shares. He has 2400 rubber trees spread across 6 hectares. Brought from Kerala and plated in 1981-82 these full grown trees are yielding him profits since their tapping

started in 1989.

“I have 175 mango trees with 16 varieties – ranging from Alfonso to Neelam. I planted them in 1970. Betel nuts planted in 1993-94 produced 500 kg this year whereas black pepper in 2000 was 200 kg and 2400 newly planted kokum over 7 hectares is expected to give approximately 4000 kg produce. 200 seeds of turmeric planted three years ago are giving me 25,000 kg today. My cashew varieties are Vengurla 4, Vengurla 7, Balli 2 and local Goan – altogether 2300 trees spread across 8 hectares. What I planted in October 2006 will give me yield worth Rs5 lakh this year. And cashew nut rates are ever increasing,” Shrihari’s mental arithmetic is accurate at 75.

Intex Technologies, the fastest growing companies in IT hardware, Mobile Phones and electronics today unveiled an exclusive range of phones that are a perfect blend of cutting edge technology with dedicated music features for all the music lovers apart from various multimedia features.

Bridging gap between the digital divide, Intex has been designing phones best suited for each and all. The flagship product of the series is Intex IN 4415 Sonic, a treat to music enthusiasts. The other models within the range are IN 4420 S V.DO, IN 1212 Nano Plus, IN

PTI MUMBAI, MARCH 17

The BSE Sensex fell about 209 points to 18,149.87 as RBI raised key policy rates by 25 basis points to tame the pace of price rise and revised upwards inflation forecast indicating that tight money policy may be required for a while longer.

Similarly, the NSE 50-issue Nifty also retreated by 64.50 points or 1.17 per cent to 5,446.65.

Uncomfortable with high inflation, the Reserve Bank has increased the rates for the eighth time since March 2010 to curb high spending, signalling preference for still costlier borrowing for corporates as well as consumers for time being.

It raised short-term lending (repo) and borrowing (reverse repo) rates by 25 basis points each to 6.75 per cent and 5.75 per cent respectively.

Aban Offshor, 595, 607.55, 588.5, 590.9 Abb Ltd., 738, 749, 732.55, 735.85 Abg Shipyard, 349.5, 358.8, 346.55, 352.2 Acc Limited, 1017.9, 1034, 1012, 1025.4 Adani Enterp, 600, 601.95, 598, 600.25 Aditya Birla, 768.95, 779, 762, 766.8 Allahabad Ba, 202.3, 208, 202, 207.45 Alstom Proje, 529.6, 540.35, 528, 533.6 Ambuja Cemen, 128.05, 134, 128.05, 131.75 Andhra Bank, 137.05, 138.75, 135.35, 138.1 Ashok Leylan, 52.95, 54.5, 52.85, 53.25 Asian Paints, 2524, 2595, 2505, 2579.2 Axis Bank Li, 1300, 1328.35, 1286.3, 1291.1 Bajaj Hindus, 67.7, 70.85, 67.5, 69.4 Bank Of Baro, 902.4, 915.45, 900.1, 905.15 Bank Of Indi, 463.3, 463.3, 447.1, 449.35 Beml Limited, 674, 676.8, 656.55, 669.95 Bharat Elect, 1659.65, 1659.65, 1620, 1625.15 Bharat Forge, 327.95, 334.1, 324.1, 329.95 Bharat Petro, 566.5, 579.3, 566.5, 573.95 Bharti Airte, 318.8, 323.9, 316.3, 317.85 Bhel, 1901.2, 1968.8, 1901, 1964 Bhushan Stee, 442.6, 445, 434.4, 439.75 Biocon Limit, 319.2, 332.8, 319.2, 329.9 Bombay Dyein, 355, 366.6, 352.5, 354.55

Bosch Limite, 6000, 6055, 5980, 5996.8 Brigade Ente, 90, 92.8, 90, 90.4 Cairn India, 341, 348.4, 341, 345.45 Canara Bank, 635.65, 640, 624, 630.15 Central Bank, 148, 155.4, 140, 143.15 Century Text, 315.15, 321, 314, 318.7 Cesc Ltd, 300.75, 313.5, 300.7, 310.65 Chambal Fert, 69.6, 71.2, 69.6, 69.9 Chennai Petr, 204.05, 208.35, 202.2, 204.85 Cipla Ltd, 295, 300, 294, 298.15 Colgate Palm, 902.4, 902.4, 833, 839.8 Container Co, 1173, 1248, 1173, 1229.65 Crompton Gre, 263.95, 272.4, 261.6, 268.6 Cummins Indi, 650, 665.2, 640.1, 660.4 Dabur India, 97.45, 97.95, 95.65, 96.05 Deccan Chron, 68.85, 69.75, 67.7, 68.4 Dish Tv Indi, 62.25, 62.85, 61.55, 62.1 Divi’s Labor, 619.9, 625, 615.1, 623.5 Dlf Limited, 223.7, 227.4, 220.5, 221.45 Dr. reddy’s, 1545, 1545, 1515, 1526.65 Edelweiss Ca, 37.4, 39.85, 37.4, 38.25 Educomp Solu, 408.9, 419.8, 408.5, 412.3 Eih Limited, 82, 86.3, 81.15, 81.8 Engineers In, 301, 307.3, 299.1, 305.1 Essar Oil Lt, 121.95, 123.6, 120.5, 121

Hardworking and practical he is methodical, too. The farms are intelligently arranged with supply of water from the source of natural springs and a bore well. He has developed his own system of underline pipelines network to irrigate.

Fruits and vegetables like turmeric, pineapples, watermelons and gourds are taken as intercrops. Not an inch space or a drop of water is wasted. Planning meticulously he adds more and more to the existing vegetation. Though spread in the mining belt luckily Shrihari’s 10 hectares at Ambaulim (Quepem) and 26 hectares at Vichundre (Sanguem) are far from the pollution. With clean waters in and around this land he has no irrigation problem. His loyal farm hands water the plants at regular intervals which helps him getting the maximum output. Intercropping gives him higher commercial returns. All farm waste is recycled by composting with appropriate technology and used in the farm as manure. He has adopted the indigenous technical knowledge well modified with advance methods.

This is not the end of the story of successful farming in Goa. The feather in the cap is still to follow. Shrihari has been winning prizes for his amazing farm skills and excellent yields for years. A nature lover he is unique not only in Goa but in the country, with nomination

Intex unveils V Do series hEraLD NEws DEsk PANJIM, MARCH 17

Sensex falls 209 pts on rate hike

Oil palm cultivation – 1st prize for 3 consecutive years – 1992-93, 1993- 94, 1994-95.

Mangoes 4 prizes in 1995.

Cashew Apples – 3 prizes – all 1st for Best Fenni, Best Fruit and Best Variety in 1999 at all India level. Participation in Sindhudurg Amba Pradarshan in 2001. All Goa Mango Show in 2004 – 3rdprize for Malkurad and 1st for Bhopali mango. In 2003 Best mango and Best kokum – 1st prize.

Essar Shippi, 88.15, 92, 88.15, 90.65 Exide Indust, 136.7, 138, 133.85, 137.15 Federal Bank, 368.75, 376.3, 364.95, 374.75 Financial Te, 780, 780.9, 768.1, 771.25 Gail (india), 451, 455.45, 448.15, 452.35 Gammon India, 110.1, 113, 109.25, 111.65 Glaxosmithkl, 2080, 2124.4, 2060, 2099.3 Glenmark Pha, 278, 278, 267.6, 268.05 Gmr Infrastr, 38.5, 38.8, 37.75, 37.95 Godrej Indus, 167, 168.5, 165, 166.1 Grasim Indus, 2430, 2461.5, 2404.05, 2438 Great Offsho, 235.1, 245.25, 231.15, 242.3 Gtl Infra.Lt, 36.25, 37.15, 36.25, 36.6 Gujarat Mine, 131, 131.1, 127.4, 128.95 Gujarat N R, 49.25, 50, 47.5, 49.7 Gujarat Stat, 97.9, 100.5, 97, 99.25 Gvk Pow. & I, 25.1, 25.4, 24.7, 24.85 Hcl Technolo, 460, 465.75, 452.7, 457.85 Hdfc Bank Lt, 2170.2, 2233, 2166.15, 2181.5 Hdfc Ltd, 650.5, 655, 634.15, 637 Hero Honda M, 1493.05, 1528, 1493.05, 1510.15 Hindalco in, 201.25, 203.4, 196.85, 197.7 Hindustan Co, 34.75, 35.05, 34.5, 34.7 Hindustan Ma, 59.5, 60.75, 58.65, 59.15 Hindustan Pe, 333, 341.5, 333, 337.7

Hindustan Un, 270.35, 272.85, 269.3, 270.7 Hindustan Zi, 130.4, 131.05, 127.7, 128.7 Icici Bank L, 1020, 1027.4, 1004.2, 1011.85 Idea Cellula, 59.75, 63.4, 59.7, 61.75 Ifci Ltd, 53.45, 53.85, 52.6, 52.95 India Cement, 91.45, 92.95, 91, 92.7 India Infoli, 70, 71.3, 69.6, 70.05 Indiabulls F, 149.4, 151.9, 146.05, 148.3 Indiabulls R, 110.85, 112, 109.75, 110.45 Indian Bank, 213.3, 220.5, 213.3, 218.9 Indian Hotel, 77.3, 78.95, 77.3, 77.85 Indian Oil C, 309.9, 309.9, 305, 306.2 Indian Overs, 144, 145, 142.4, 143.55 Indus Dev Ba, 136, 137.9, 135.1, 135.95 Indusind Ban, 246.3, 250, 243.1, 245.15 Infosys Tech, 2984.1, 2999, 2971, 2978.7 Infra. dev., 145.65, 146.7, 143.1, 144.9 Ispat Indust, 21.6, 22.25, 20.5, 22.15 Itc Ltd, 169.5, 170.9, 167.3, 168.05 Ivrcl Infras, 72, 74, 71.25, 72.9 Jai Corp Lim, 160.1, 162.45, 158, 159.45 Jaiprakash A, 81.5, 83.35, 81, 82.65 Jet Airways, 463.95, 480.7, 460.3, 470.95 Jindal Saw L, 191, 192.95, 189.5, 190.35 Jindal Steel, 655.1, 661.9, 650.2, 652.85

4400 Magic and IN 2040 N. In words of Mr. Shailendra Jha, DGM-Telecom, Intex Technologies, “In our each model that we created in this series, we have tried to set a new benchmark for performance, quality and affordability and is poised to drive advanced multimedia capabilities into new tiers of handsets. And most importantly, the aim was to meet the changing needs of our consumers and make mobile communication available to the widest possible audience”. “ With our new music range, we hope to enhance personal experiences and make them even more special,” he added.

Jsw Steel Li, 901, 909.55, 885.05, 889.85 Kotak Mahind, 420, 431.95, 416, 427.1 Lakshmi Mach, 2140, 2150, 2108.05, 2135.6 Lanco Infrat, 36.45, 36.6, 35.75, 36 Larsen & Tou, 1520, 1554.95, 1520, 1523.15 Lic Housing, 197.3, 201, 195, 198.9 Lupin Limite, 395, 395, 387, 392.45 Mahanagar Te, 44.8, 45.8, 44.1, 44.3 Mahindra & M, 652.1, 664.75, 652.1, 656.2 Maruti Suzuk, 1205.2, 1213.9, 1155.05, 1165.1 Max India Lt, 145, 145.75, 142.5, 142.85 Moser-baer (, 40.85, 41.45, 39.85, 40.3 Mrpl, 62.25, 62.9, 61.5, 61.75 Nagarjuna Fe, 26.85, 26.95, 26.6, 26.7 National Alu, 107.9, 108.85, 103.5, 103.95 Neyveli Lign, 99.05, 101.85, 99.05, 100.25 Ntpc Ltd, 176.3, 177.4, 174.6, 175.55 Oil And Natu, 269.85, 275.9, 268.5, 272.35 Omaxe Limite, 134, 134.5, 130.3, 131.4 Oriental Ban, 358.1, 372.8, 358.1, 369.8 Pantaloon Re, 247.95, 251, 243.2, 245.7 Parsvnath De, 37, 39.4, 37, 38.4 Petronet Lng, 116.45, 118.3, 115.75, 117.5 Power Fin Co, 235.2, 237.4, 232.25, 234.65 Power Grid C, 97.8, 98.55, 97.8, 98.35

Four prizes all 1st for 4 fruits – jamun, kokum, jackfruit and mango in 2004. In 2005 total 8 prizes – cashew apples, banana, jackfruit and mango. In 2006 special prize for jamun and cashew apple, pineapple 1st and mango 3rd. Cashews 1st prize in and mango special category in 2008. Shrihari has broken records in Mayade bananas with a bunch weighing 37kgs and won applauds all over Goa. for Indira Gandhi Paryavaran Puraskar in 2010. Shrihari received ASPEE – L M Patel Farmer of the Year Award (worth rupees one lakh) in 2000 for plantation crops, at all India level. He wisely utilised the award money for planting shade-giving trees in the Cuncoliem crematorium. Government of Goa awarded him as Best Horticulturist in 1999.

Bank of India, Jaycees, Rotary, Lions – you name it and they have felicitated this progressive farmer.

Shrihari Kurade is one example how intelligent farming can give one immense satisfaction both – monetarily and mentally. With his immense contribution towards conservation, restoration and development of environment in the state of Goa and has set an example for others with his dedication for the cause of environment.

Shrihari likes to educate others through lectures, workshops, TV presentations, radio talks, public meetings and seminars. Just three days ago, on 15 March, Shrihari attended a meeting convened by the Director of Agriculture, Satish Tendulkar, to discuss and plan for strategies for development of agriculture sector in Goa. Shrihari is a role model in his hometown Cuncoliem for his hard work, patience and love for his soil. He a living example how one can lead a life, so fruitful and so meaningful, if only one wishes!

9.5% interest on PF deposits for 2010-11 PTI NEW DELHI, MARCH 17

The finance ministry today approved higher interest rate of 9.5 per cent to over 4.7 crore depositors with the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) for 2010-11.

The EPFO had been paying 8.5 per cent interest on PF deposits since 2005-06. In September last year, it had recommended an increase in interest rate to 9.5 per cent for 2010-11 after discovering Rs 1,731 crore surplus in their books of accounts. And the finance ministry has also ratified 9.5 per cent rate of return.

Praj Industr, 71.05, 73.5, 71.05, 72.25 Punj Lloyd L, 61.85, 63.7, 61.6, 62.7 Punjab Natio, 1085, 1111, 1085, 1097.85 Rajesh Expor, 118.2, 118.9, 117, 117.45 Ranbaxy Labs, 467, 475.8, 461.7, 466.95 Rashtriya Ch, 77.55, 78.45, 76.6, 77.25 Reliance Cap, 570, 589.9, 569.75, 583.3 Reliance Com, 102.7, 107.5, 102.05, 106.6 Reliance Ene, 1078, 1078, 1055.1, 1062 Reliance Ind, 632.05, 650.2, 632.05, 639.75 Reliance Ind, 1039.3, 1048.8, 1028, 1030.85 Reliance Pow, 124.5, 126.7, 123.75, 125.1 Rolta India, 137.3, 137.3, 137.3, 137.3 Satyam Compu, 67, 68.65, 66.6, 67.55 Sesa Goa Ltd, 260.45, 262.9, 259, 260.1 Shipping Cor, 107.95, 109.7, 107.35, 107.6 Siemens Ltd, 868.9, 881, 866, 871.75 Sintex Indus, 146.95, 149, 143.05, 143.85 Sobha Develo, 262.5, 264, 258, 260.45 State Bank O, 2625, 2670, 2608.7, 2617.5 Steel Author, 156.4, 159.4, 155.6, 158.7 Sterlite Ind, 157.3, 161, 157.3, 159.55 Sun Pharmace, 434.1, 443.9, 432, 435.3 Sun Tv Netwo, 426, 443.1, 426, 435.05 Suzlon Energ, 46, 46.55, 45.6, 45.8

Tata Communi, 208.25, 212.25, 206.95, 209.1 Tata Consult, 1105, 1118.9, 1092.65, 1098 Tata Motors, 1148, 1162.4, 1132.55, 1139.95 Tata Power C, 1225, 1234, 1221, 1228.15 Tata Steel L, 590.55, 599.7, 590, 592.7 Tata Teleser, 15, 15.1, 14.85, 14.85 Tech Mahindr, 737.95, 749.75, 728.9, 732.75 The Ge Shpg., 258, 260.2, 255.3, 259.3 The Phoenix, 179.55, 207.55, 172, 176.65 Thermax Ltd, 580, 588.95, 570.9, 576.2 Titan Indust, 3520, 3580, 3514, 3563.85 Torrent Powe, 222.25, 229, 184.6, 228 Triveni Engg, 98.85, 99.4, 96, 97.55 Tv18 India L, 73.6, 75.9, 73.6, 74.5 Uco Bank, 100, 102.15, 99.15, 100.55 Ultratech Ce, 1019.95, 1025.95, 1016, 1023.6 Union Bank O, 338.95, 341.9, 334.15, 337.7 Unitech Ltd, 37.8, 38.35, 37.55, 37.9 United Phosp, 130, 136.45, 129, 135.6 Videocon Ind, 184.85, 185.4, 181.25, 182.85 Vijaya Bank, 73.5, 75.2, 72.25, 73.3 Voltas Ltd, 157, 163.4, 155.4, 158.9 Wipro Ltd, 439.1, 446.5, 439.1, 443.45 Yes Bank Lim, 278.8, 282.7, 275.1, 278.8 Zee Entertai, 119.1, 120.5, 118.4, 119.95

OHERALDO

Pg13 GOA, FRIDAY 18 MARCH, 2011

Bahrain arrests 6 rebel leaders, Indians safe PTI MANAMA, MARCH 17 Continuing a security crackdown, Bahrain's authorities today arrested six top opposition leaders under the country's emergency laws, a day after tanks and army personnel overran the protesters camps in the heart of the capital at Pearl Square.

All of those arrested were dissident leaders including five Shias and one Sunni and were picked up overnight and early morning as heavily armed forces and tanks blocked most of the city's thoroughfares.

Opposition leader Hassan Mushaima of the Haq Movement, who had returned last month from self-imposed exile to the UK, was one of the prominent leaders detained as authorities declared that holding of rallies would remain banned.

Abdel Wahhab Hussein from Wafa party and Sunni liberal leader Ibrahim Sharif from the Waad Society were among the six opposition leaders arrested.

“Significant members of the opposition were arrested overnight, including some prominent activists. Soldiers broke into the houses of these figures early in the morning and made these arrests,” Al Jazeera reported.

All offices, banks, schools and business establishment remained close for the second day as Bahrain's King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa came under mounting diplomatic pressure to end the crackdown and start negotiations with the dissidents.

The Indian nationals were re-

UN slams takeover of hospitals by military UN rights chief Navi Pillay on Thursday slammed security forces' takeover of Bahrain hospitals and medical facilities as "a blatant violation of international law."

Pillay said in a statement she was "deeply alarmed by the escalation of violence by security forces in Bahrain, in particular the reported takeover of hospitals and medical centres" in the country, which she called a "shocking and a blatant violation of international law."

Rights activists have deplored a bloody crackdown mounted by Sunni rulers against Shiite-led protests, accusing security forces of preventing the injured from reaching hospitals and of beating medics trying to collect the wounded from the streets.

Manama's main hospital was sealed off by police armed with

shotguns, and Bahrain's Health Minister Nizar Baharna, a Shiite, announced his resignation after police allegedly burst into a Manama hospital.

“Governments are obliged to protect the rights to life and health of the people, but we are hearing very credible reports indicating that they are in fact obstructing access to such rights,” said Pillay.

She revealed that her office has received calls and emails from individuals in Bahrain, who are “terrified about the armed forces’ intentions.”

“There are reports of arbitrary arrests, killings, beatings of protesters and of medical personnel, and of the takeover of hospitals and medical centres by various security forces.

“This is shocking and illegal conduct,” she stressed, calling on the security forces to leave health care facilities and to stop harassing health workers.

ported to be safe in the country which has witnessed attacks on some Pa k i s t a n i and Bangladeshis, an Indian resident told PTI from Manama.

Bahrain has nearly 300,000 Indians, making them the single largest expatriate community in the tiny Gulf country.

US President Barack Obama, whose country is a close ally of Bahrain, called King Hamad to express “deep concern” at the bloody crackdown.

British Prime Minister David Cameron has urged the king to

pursue “reforms not repression.”

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, now on a visit to countries in the region which have witnessed upheavals, has criticised the deployment in the country, which houses American Navy's 5th fleet.

“What is happening in Bahrain is alarming and it was unfortunately diverting attention and effort away from the political and economic track.

That is the only way forward to resolve differences,” Clinton said.

AFP GENEVA, MARCH 17

Pirates release ship for $ 2 m AFP TUNIS, March 17

Somali pirates have released a chemical tanker hijacked in November after payment of a ransom of $2 million, Tunisia's transport ministry announced Thursday.

The Hannibal II, whose 31 c re w m e m b e r s a re m o s t l y Tunisian, is currently on its way to Djibouti in the Red Sea, the ministry said.

“This release comes after the success of negotiations undertaken by the Tunisian government with the Somalia pirates and the payment of a ransom estimated at $2 million,” the official TAP news agency quoted the ministry as saying. It did not say who paid the ransom, or how.

The Tunisian shipowner Gabes Marine Tankers (GMT) had announced that the release of the ship was imminent late Wednesday.

"Negotiations have not been

easy and we cannot be sure the ship will be released until it leaves Somalian waters accompanied by a naval protection vessel," said company owner Farid Abbas.

Pg 14

SPORTS

GOA, Friday, 18 March 2011

Rs 50 lakh for international football matches HERALD SPORTS REPORTER PANJIM, MARCH 17

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat today earmarked Rs 50 lakh for hosting friendly exhibition football matches with foreign teams as part of Goa’s Godeln Jubilee celebrations. A one-time grant of Rs 50 lakh has also been allotted to Margao Cricket Club (MCC) to enable it to create better infrastructure.

Presenting the budget, Digambar, who also holds the Finance portfolio stated, “Football has always been close to the heart of all Goans with Dempo, Churchill, Salgaocar having ex-

Sporting down Wahingdoh

celled at National and international levels. Goans should get a golden opportunity to witness some of world’s leading football teams in action in the State. Incidentally, GFA celebrated its Golden Jubilee last year.”

As regards to MCC, Digambar said, “It owns the Rajendra Prasad stadium in Margao, which created the first indoor badminton hall and is one of the oldest cricket clubs in the State. It has done great service to the youth and sportspersons of State. The only Test cricketer from Goa, late Dilip Sardessai, started his career at MCC. The

SPORTS BONANZA l

Rs 50 lakh for exhibition football matches involving foreign team

l

Rs 50 lakh for MCC infrastructure

l

Stadium at St Cruz

l

Swimming pools at Mormugao, Canacona

l

Jogging park at Mapusa

Salcete prevail over Signals

HERALD SPORTS REPORTER MAPUSA, MARCH 17

HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, MARCH 17

Sporting Clube de Goa continued there winning streak with a 3-0 victory over Royal Wahingdoh in a friendly match at Duler Stadium on Thursday. Sporting led 1-0 at the breather.

Sporting started brightly and took the lead half way through when Jovel Martins crossed for Jaychandra Singh to slot home.

Ten minutes into the second half, Wahingdoh changed their entire team, which tested Sporting's fitness levels as they moved the ball quickly forward and seemed a stronger team then the first half.

Sporting made a few changes themselves, before Agnelo D'Sousa pounced to punt home and double the lead.

Near the end, Sporting captain Mathew Gonsalves received the ball on the edge of the box from a corner and smashed home the third.

Wahingdoh are from Shillong and are coached by former India international Carlton Chapman.

“We are over here to acclimatize for the I-League Second Division as Shillong is very cold.. This is our first game and I am sure we will improve,” stated Carlton.

A late strike by substitute striker Socorro Monteiro helped Salcate Football Club defeat Corps of Signals 1-0 in their concluding match of GFA’s First Division League at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda on Thursday. There was no score at half time.

Salcete had a golden opportunity to break the deadlock in the 5th minute but striker Joshua Vaz was the culprit as he muffed a sitter after being fed

by Slegan Gracias from the right.

At the other end, Corps of Signals nearly scored in the 12th

minute as goalkeeper Presley Mascarenhas was beaten following a cross from Budhi Bahadur and striker Avijit Biswas smart’s header was headed out from the goal by Charlton Vaz. Salcete came close in the 19th minute but midfielder Francis Andrade’s well executed free kick was saved by Corps of Signals goalkeeper Nibu Koshy.

Signals came close to forging ahead in the 30th minute but Salcete goalkeeper Presley Mascarenhas came to his side’s rescue to thwart Pawan Kumar Tyagi’s free kick.

Salcete intensified their forays

GOA DIARY Summer tennis camp

PANJIM (HSD) – ITF Level 1 and USPTR professional coaches from Chandigarh in association with visiting National coach Gary O’Brien will organise their summer tennis camp from April 6 to 30 at Clube Gaspar Dias, Mira Mar and from May 9 to 31 at BPS Club, Margao followed by a tournament and prize distribution. Registration will be on first- come-first-serve basis.

Only those between 4 to 18 years are eligible alongwith special adult batches. Forms can be collected at Champs or Angleys, Panjim. Details may be obtained on 2904142 or 8806477216.

Bodybuilding at Britona

PANJIM (HSD) – Fitforever Gym, Britona will organise their AllGoa bodybuilding competition recognised by Goa State Bodybuilding Association on March 19 at Britona at 6.30 p.m.

Weighing will begin at 5.30 p.m.

Details may be obtained from Girish Kakode, Ranchandra Azgaonkar, Meghashyam Shirodkar or Elvis.

U-12, U-14 cricket trials

GFA First Division: MPT v.

Calangute Association, Tilak Maidan, Vasco; Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim v. Margao SC, Cuncolim ground. Kick off 4 p.m.

GFA Second Division: Milagres SC v. Peddem Bomm SC, Duler Stadium, Mapusa, 4 p.m.

Novino Gold Cup soccer: Guirdolim SC v. Sodiem Siolim SCA, Dr Gustavo Monteiro Stadium, Candolim, 4.30 p.m.

All-Goa tennis ball cricket: St Mathias panchayat ground, Malar-Divar, 7.30 p.m.

club has also produced several football and cricket players who made a mark in the State. In order to recognise its services and to enable the club to create a better infrastructure, a one time grant of Rs 50 has been allotted.”

The construction of swimming pools in Mormugao and Canacona Talukas have also been proposed since these talukas have no facilities in aquatics.

Besides, a community hall and a sports stadium at Santa Cruz and a jogging park at Mapusa are also envisaged.

It could not be ascertained if

PANJIM (HSD) -- The Goa Cricket Association will conduct selection trials for U-12 and U-14 boys and girls at GCA Academy ground, Alto Porvorim for North Goa and BITS Pilani Campus, Zuarinagar for South Goa from April 10 to May 20. Those interested may contact the GCA office with their birth certificates.

Last date to register is April 2.

Details may be obtained from Vivek Pednekar on 9423819777, Sanjay Kanekar on 9326126466, Zamir Carol on 9370568728, Sudesh Prabhudessai on 9422058377 or Vilas Dessai on 9623122038.

Bodybuilding team for Delhi PANJIM (HSD): The Goa Bodybuilding Association has selected the following bodybuilders to represent the State at the Senior National bodybuilding championship organised by Delhi State Bodybuilding Association and sanctioned by Indian Bodybuilding Federation to be held in Delhi from March 24 to 27.

Mahesh Kavlekar, Amit Gauns, Damodar Korgaonkar and Peter Fernandes.

The selections were done at Body Sculpture Gym, Porvorim in the presence of Girish Kakode, Durgesh Naik, Ramhandra Azgaonkar and Prashant Salgaocar.

Meanwhile, Indian Bodybuilding Federation (IBBF) team was nominated by Indian Olympic Association (IOA) for Beach Bodybuilding Games to be held in Oman under Olympic Council of Asia (OCA).

into the rival territory and nearly found success in the 40th minute when Francis Andrade’s free kick was headed out by striker Slegan Gracias.

At the stroke of the lemon break, striker Joshua Vaz spurned and easy chance to put Salcete in front as he shot wide from handshaking distance after he received a through pass from Ashley Araujo.

With time running out, Corps of Signals nearly found success but V L Nghara’s smart header was saved by Don Fernandes after Salcete’s goalkeeper was beaten by the flight of the ball.

The all-important goal came in the 87th minute when substitute striker Soccoro Monteiro unleashed a snap shot from 35 yards that beat Corps of Signals goalkeeper hands down.

With this win, Salcete finished their outings with 19 points from 14 matches while Corps of Signals have 12 points.

At Assolna ground, Raia Sporting Club downed St Rock’s Sports Club, Fatrade, Varca 3-0.

Raia led 1-0 at half time.

Melroy D’Silva and Xavier Clemente were the goal getters.

With this loss, St Rock’s stand relegated to the Second Division.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, MARCH 17

PVC Association, Parra prevailed over Football Club of Siolim 4-3 via the tie-breaker after a 1-1 draw to move into the quarter-finals of Novino Gold Cup inter-village football tournament organised by Candolim Sports Club at Dr Gustavo Monteiro Stadium, Candolim on Thursday.

Both teams began on a prom-

ising note but failed to score early.

Parra shot into the lead in the 40th minute through Peter Mascarenhas.

Down by a goal, Siolim fought back and restored parity in the 50th minute through Bradley.

In the penalties, PVC kept their nerves to prevail over Siolim 3-2 on penalties.

Joaquim, Lyson and Atish found the mark for Parra while Sangam and Claudio were on target for Siolim.

Sportsweek CC win HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, MARCH 17

Sportsweek Cricket Club beat Sahyadri Cricket Club by 37 runs in Aman Sports Club cricket Trophy at SAG ground, Chicalim on Wednesday.

Sportsweek won the toss and elected to bat and were 127 for 5 in 20 overs.

Akshay Kamat (36 and 4 for 8), Akhil Gaitonde (23) and Sarvesh Shirodkar (38). Stanley took 3 wickets for 21. In reply, Sahyadri were all out for 91 in 16 overs.

A m b ro s e ( 2 4 ) , D a r s h a n Karekar (3 for 18), Mohit Naik (2 for 5) and Nitesh Vernekar (1 for 8) were successful bowlers.

Board decision final: RMS HSS HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, MARCH 17

“RMS does not require any certificate from anyone about our credentials,” stated Vinod Powar, principal, RMS Higher Secondary, Margao “Our teachers and our past and present students are the best judges. If we had not taken any interest in sports than we would not have been in the forefront of sports in the inter-HSS competitions. We not only give students equal opportunities but also award cash incentives for those who are in need. The best example is Shankar Dhamandhay who passed out from our institution and was awarded a cash incentive of Rs 5,000 for his outstanding performance at State and National level in Athletics in 2009-10,” added Powar.

“As principal, I always help, encourage and motivate students to participate not only in sports but also in NSS and other extra-curricular activities of the school for the overall personality development and also make it a point to be present for almost all sports of our school,” said Powar.

Powar said “We are only trying to protect the genuine sports persons who play for the school and deserve the sports marks. We have always supported the implementation of Sports Policy in toto for the development of sports. Our objection is only for the misuse by some quarters,” he remarked.

“In the last year at the Board meeting, Farrel Furtado and myself as board member have

Principal Powar with the students who brought glory for RMS HSS in tug-of-war by participating through a sports club in the event organised

by Tug-of-War Association.

strongly supported the Sports Policy to be implemented immediately, so that the students get sports marks. Our physical education teacher Vinod Dhamaskar was one of the members of the committee constituted for framing the guidelines for the policy and now they are accusing us for not encouraging sports persons. RMS supports genuine sports persons who put in dedicated hard work for the glory of sports in the school,” Powar highlighted.

Touching the Tug-of-War competition, Powar said that neither the organiser had informed him nor the PE teacher and that he had referred the matter to the Goa Board and that he will abide by the decision taken by the Board.

PVC edge out Siolim, enter quarters novino gold cup

the present football ground at Santa Cruz would be upgraded or a new built in the area.

Football fans were ecstatic that they would be able to see a foreign team during the exhibition matches. Many were hoping to witness a leading English Premiership League team, but these could cost anything above Rs 80 lakh and even touching Rs 1 to 3 crore (Manchester United, Real Madrid, Chelsea) in which case the organisers would have to raise necessary finances from the corporate sector or opt for lower ranked or junior teams.

Powar wanted to know if it was right if the cricket, football, table tennis and hockey players will get only five marks for their initial participation as compared to the Tug-of-War which will get 15 marks for their initial participation.

Powar stated that the Sports Policy needed a review for the benefit of genuine sports persons.

Meanwhile, Farrel Furtado, vice-chairman of the Board said that the Board was an autonomous body and that the members had voted against allotting 15 merit marks in the particular case. However, she, added that if the Government would issue a directive it would be a different matter.

St Mary’s Convent High School, Mapusa, winners of State Level U-14 girls judo organised by DSYA. Standing (l to r): Hema Hasotikar (bronze), Rehea Shinde (silver), Karishma Gosavi (gold), Nadashri Sawkar (bronze), Rashwita Mayekar, Delicia D’Sousa (silver), Alisha Janci Nichla (bronze), Sanjana Kerkar (gold).

Sitting (l to r): Lavinio Rebello (PE teacher), R K Shintre (judo coach), Sr Namika (headmistress), Sr Eunicia (manager) and Audrey Mohanan (PE teacher). Squatting (l to r): Ninoshka Mascarenhas (gold) and Sonia Dessai (gold).

Baba Marc lift St Caitan Trophy

ONGC spike DLW HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, MARCH 17

ONGC Dheradun defeated DLW Bhanaras (UP) 25-22, 2522, 25-22 IN 3rd All_India volleyball championship organised

by Wilred Leisure Sports Club at St Alex court, Curtorim.

HSIIDC came from a set down 18-25 to record a stunning victory over KSEB 25-22, 25-22 to record their first victory.

Captain of Baba Marc receiving the winners trophy from Victoria Fernandes, MLA. HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, MARCH 17

Baba Marc beat Mix Friends, Merces 1-0 in the finals of 13th All-Goa St Caitan soccer tournament at A Lua ground, Merces.

Both teams tried hard to score but were unable to find the target. However, Baba Marc’s Gabriel tricked a couple of defenders and punted the ball in.

The winners pocketed Rs

7,000 while the runners-up had to be content with Rs 5,000 alongwith trophies.

Following individual prizes were awarded: First scorer of the finals – Gabriel (Baba Marc).

Best player of the tournament – Valencio Estrocio (mix friends).

Best defender of the tournament – David (Mix Friends). Best goalkeeper of the finals – Esta (Baba Marc). Best goalkeeper of the tournament – Lepocian (mix

friends). Upcoming player – Madhu. Dangerous upcoming player from Cameroon – Swapnil.

Victoria Fernandes, MLA was the chief guest and gave away the prizes in the presence of Fr Jose Caitan D’Costa, guest of honour. Also present were Chaya Naik, ZP member and Laximan Govekar, SAG. Victoria Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks.

Auxilium High School, Caranzalem, second runners-up of Goa leg Mahindra Youth Football Challenge 2010-11 along Principal Sr Elizabeth Coelho and physical education teacher Navonath Shinde.

www.oheraldo.in

Pg15

GOA, FRIDAY, 18 MARCH, 2011

We count on knock-out stage: Sangakkara PTI MUMBAI, MARCH 17

The winning momentum is important but Sri Lanka skipper Kumar Sangakkara today said sides assured of quarter-final berths in the ongoing World Cup would not be too disappointed if they lose their final group encounters as they would be planning for the knockout stage.

"Any side will like to build the momentum and take it to the really important (knock-out) stage. At the same time sides who might not win the final first round games won't be too much worried about that as the quarters, semis and finals are what really count," said the wicket-

keeper-batsman on the eve of the match against New Zealand, also assured of a berth in the knockout stage.

Tomorrow's game followed by the Australia-Pakistan one in Colombo the following day will decide the order of the four qualifiers in Group 'A', but Sangakkara was not particularly worried about where the team would finish in the top-four teams.

"This round we are going into is a do-or-die and what happened before won't really matter unless it takes a psychological toll on that particular side. We are trying to play as best as we can. We are not looking too far ahead, trying to concentrate on

tomorrow's game, and if we win take that confidence going forward," said the 33-year-old who is 49 runs short of joining the 9000-run club in ODIs. According to the 287-ODI veteran, tracks in India were a lot more balanced for chasing or setting a target than those back home in Lanka.

after the lengthy 14-team format with some dull one-sided affairs had been subject to criticism.

Now that the two teams know that they cannot make the quarter-finals with Ireland on two points from five matches and the Netherlands none, it will be an opportunity for the players to grab attention with some individual performances at the majestic Eden Gardens.

Ireland will go into the match with the favourites tag while the Netherlands will be keen to

open their account and avoid the wooden spoon in group B. But there seems to be little interest among the local crowd to turn up at the 63,500 capacity Eden Gardens for the day match.

Along with India, South Africa, England and the West Indies the top four teams on paper, the two Associate nations of Ireland and the Netherlands have provided the right mix making the group B richer with some stunning and promising displays.

TODAY’S MATCHES Ireland v.

Netherlands 9 a.m.

New Zealand v. Sri Lanka 2.30 p.m.

Minnows look to sign off on a high PTI KOLKATA, MARCH 17

It could well be their last outing at the big stage as minnows Ireland and the Netherlands lock horns in a battle for pride in their last group B match of the cricket World Cup here tomorrow.

The two teams may disappear from the big stage for an indefinite period with the International Cricket Council aiming to trim down the next edition of the World Cup to 10 nations

Bopanna-Qureshi in Indian semis l Spirited Somdev goes down fighting to Nadal PTI INDIAN WELLS, MARCH 17

The Rohan Bopanna-Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi juggernaut continued to roll in the ATP BNP Paribas Open as the Indo-Pak pair advanced to the semifinals with a straight-set triumph over Serbs Novak Djokovic and Viktor Troicki here.

Bopanna and Qureshi triumphed 6-1 7-6 (5) over the Serbs yesterday to set up a clash with the Spanish-Canadian combination of Feliciano Lopez and Milos Raonic.

Somdev Devvarman put up a spirited fight against Rafael Nadal but the world number one eventually managed to tame the

lion-hearted Indian in straight sets in the pre-quarter-finals.

Somdev went down 5-7 4-6 but not before making the Spaniard work hard for every point in a contest that lasted close to two hours -- the first set alone accounting for more than an hour.

Roger Federer also reached the last eight on Wednesday where he was joined by Novak Djokovic whose blistering form this season shows no sign of waning.

16-time major winner Federer faced a stubborn opponent in American Ryan Harrison before he pulled off a 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 win.

Reigning Australian Open champion Djokovic stretched

IPL schedule revised PTI NEW DELHI, MARCH 17

The Indian Premier League organisers were today forced to tweak the event's schedule this year because of the upcoming assembly elections in five States of the country.

The league organisers, in a statement, said they have made some changes in the 2011 IPL original schedule taking into account the Assembly elections in the states of West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry.

Keeping in mind the revised

schedule, the organisers have also extended the deadline for media accreditation and said new forms will soon be made available.

"The revised media accreditation form will be sent out to the media soon. The mediapersons who have already applied for accreditation, will be contacted separately by IPL's accreditation team," IPL chairman Chirayu Amin said in the statement.

"The deadline for submission has been extended by two days – 6 pm on Friday, 25 March 2011," it added.

Chelsea, Real in last 8

REUTERS LONDON, MARCH 17

Chelsea and Real Madrid moved into the last eight of the Champions League with minimum of fuss on Wednesday.

The former drew 0-0 at home with a battling FC Copenhagen to complete a 2-0 aggregate victory, while the Spanish giants ended a six-year Champions League jinx, crushing Olympique Lyon 3-0 to advance to the quarter-finals for the first time since 2004.

Marcelo, Karim Benzema and Angel Di Maria scored the goals at a packed and rowdy Bernabeu to put the record nine-times winners through 4-1 on aggregate.

Real's smooth passage into the last eight at the expense of the team that knocked them out last season will be seen as a personal triumph for their outspoken Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho and is his first meaningful contribution to the club since joining from Inter Milan.

The Londoners, bidding to make the semi-finals for the sixth time in eight years, completed a hat-trick of successes for Premier League clubs as they join Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United in Friday's quarter-final draw.

Chelsea, in command of the tie following Nicolas Anelka's two goals in the first leg, created a dozen half-chances but their finishing lacked precision and visiting keeper Johan Wiland was forced into only regulation saves.

Copenhagen, 20 points clear at the top of their domestic league and the first Danish side to make the knockout stage of the Champions League, went close in the first half when Dame N'Doye curled a superb free kick against a post with Petr Cech beaten but spent most of the night defending.

Chelsea set about their task with the zeal of a team who knew the tie was as good as over and with the quiet home fans in the less-than-full Stamford Bridge acquiescing it was left to the noisy visiting supporters to provide the atmosphere.

When they did move out of second gear with some nicelybuilt moves down the left, their finishing let them down as Frank Lampard, Yuri Zhirkov, Anelka and Didier Drogba all failed to take advantage of decent positions.

The Danes, resplendent in bright pink shirts, were busy without ever looking dangerous but they came nearest to a firsthalf goal when N'Doye's free kick thudded against the post after 26 minutes.Chelsea were livelier after the break with Drogba shooting just wide and John Obi Mikel clipping the bar with a header as Copenhagen were pushed deeper and deeper.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti introduced Fernando Torres for Anelka after 67 minutes and though the Spaniard unleashed two sharp shots, he ended his sixth game for his new club still seeking his first goal.

Teams qualified for quarters Barcelona (ESP), Chelsea (ENG) Inter Milan (ITA), Manchester United (ENG), Real Madrid (ESP) Schalke 04 (GER), Shaktar Donetsk (UKR), Tottenham Hotspur (ENG) Quarter-final draw will he held on Friday at 1100GMT.

his win streak to 17 by crushing doubles partner, and Davis Cup winning teammate, Viktor Troicki 6-0, 6-1.

"Wickets in India seem to be a lot more balanced than wickets in Sri Lanka. A side batting first or chasing is not in too much of a disadvantage here, whereas in Sri Lanka conditions do change to give a slight advantage to certain sides. Totals also seem to be higher here," he remarked.

Sangakkara dismissed his side had a psychological edge having beaten New Zealand four times against two losses to the Black Caps in six World Cup outings.

"When you are playing in a World Cup, the past does not matter. For us it is about going back to basics, covering all our bases, and taking the opportunities that present themselves

tomorrow," he declared.

Sangakkara was not worried about the lack of opportunities for his middle-order batsmen till now in the tournament and expressed confidence they will stand up and deliver when required.

"When the time comes the guys will really step up, that's what they are for. In the other games, they really did not get much of a go. Probably (they had) one bad failure in the Pakistan game. We were pretty solid against Australia (in the rain washed out encounter in Lanka) and in the other games the middle order did not have much to do," Sangakkara said.

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Sehwag fit to play against Windies AGENCIES CHENNAI, MARCH 17

A major concern for the Indian team was averted when Virender Sehwag was declared fit to play in the final Group B game against West Indies in Chennai on Sunday.

The opener had suffered a knee injury during the match against South Africa in Nagpur on Saturday and had rushed to Mumbai to get it examined giving rise to speculations as regards his participation in the crucial game.

The fact that he didn't take part in the team's practice sessions in the last two days further fuelled the speculations.

However, on Thursday the board confirmed that Sehwag would indeed be playing India's final group game.

"Sehwag will play on Sunday," said BCCI president-elect N Srinivasan.

"The issue was not particularly serious and so the board didn't come out with a statement earlier," he added.

It is imperative here to mention that the swollen knee was Sehwag's third injury in this tournament.

The 33-year-old had hurt his left thigh during the tournament opener against Bangladesh in Mirpur. It is to his credit that Sehwag continued to bat, albeit with a runner, and went on to post a memorable 175 thereby helping India to a comprehensive win.

The opener had also been hit in the rib cage during the practice ahead of India's game against England in Bangalore and had to be rushed to Delhi to consult to his doctor soon after the said match.

Prior to the World Cup too, Sehwag had to return home midway through India's tour of South Africa with a shoulder injury.

However, his being fit to play against West Indies is good news for a team still reeling from the effects of that defeat against South Africa.

Meanwhile Indian cricket team underwent a two-hour long practice session without captain Dhoni and Sehwag at the IIT Chemplast grounds here today.

Barring Dhoni and Sehwag, the rest of the players turned up for practice held under the watchful eyes of coach Gary Kirsten and mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton ahead of their last World Cup league match against the West Indies on Sunday.

This was their first serious net session after the optional practice yesterday.

Sachin Tendulkar was the cynosure of the spectators as he faced some throw downs from Kirsten with the crowd cheering his every shot. Harbhajan Singh bowled a few overs before switching to batting practice.

England stay alive AFP CHENNAI, MARCH 17

Off-spinners James Tredwell and Graeme Swann took seven wickets between them as England kept their World Cup quarter-final hopes alive with an 18-run win

over the West Indies Thursday.

West Indies, chasing 244 for victory, were 222 for six after a stand of 72 between Ramnaresh Sarwan (31) and all-rounder Andre Russell (49) rescued them from the depths of 150 for six.

England: A Strauss c Gayle b Russell 31, M Prior b Russell 21, J Trott c Gayle b Bishoo 47, I Bell b Roach 27, E Morgan c Thomas b Bishoo 7, R Bopara b Russell 4, L Wright c Russell b Bishoo 44, J Tredwell run out 9, T Bresnan not out 20, G Swann b Russell 8, C Tremlett c Thomas b Roach 3.

Extras: 22. Total: 243 all out. Fall of wickets: 1-48, 2-79, 3-121, 4-134, 5-134, 6-151, 7-192, 8-216, 9-238, 10-243.

Bowling: Roach 9.4-2-34-2; Benn 10-0-56-0; Russell 8-049-4; Sammy 3-0-28-0; Bishoo 10-0-34-3; Pollard 8-0-37-0.

West Indies: D Smith st Prior b Tredwell 10, C Gayle lbw b Tredwell 43, D Sammy b Bopara 41, D Bravo c Strauss b Tredwell 5, D Thomas b Bopara 9, R Sarwan c Bell b Swann 31, K Pollard lbw b Swann 24, A Russell lbw b Tredwell 49, S Benn run out 2, K Roach c Tremlett b Swann 0, D Bishoo not out 0. Extras: 11. Total: 225 all out. Fall of wickets: 1-58, 2-67, 3-91, 4-113, 5-118, 6-150, 7-222, 8-223, 9-223, 10-225. Bowling: Bresnan 7-146-0; Swann 10-1-36-3; Tremlett 5-0-47-0; Tredwell 10-2-48-4; Bopara 8.42-22-2; Wright 4-0-18-0. Man-of-the-match: J Tredwell.

Akhtar to call it quits after WC PTI COLOMBO, MARCH 17

Temperamental and injury-ravaged Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar today announced he would retire from international cricket after the World Cup, bringing to end a tempestuous career marred by several controversies including a dope scandal.

The 35-year-old speedster, regarded as one of the fastest bowlers in his prime, took 178 wickets in 46 Tests and 247 in 163 ODIs in a 13-year career which started against the West Indies in December 1997.

"I have decided to retire. Mentally I wanted to go on forever

but I have decided to make way for the youngsters," an emotional Akhtar told reporters here.

"I have no regrets. I made lots of friends but some people have misunderstood me. I thank all the players who played with me and against me.

But they lost their final four wickets for three runs to finish on 225 all out, with Sulieman Benn the last man dismissed when he was run out by Jonathan Trott's throw to wicketkeeper Matt Prior with more than five overs left.

England now need Bangladesh to lose to South Africa on Saturday. If Bangladesh win, England can still go through if India beat West Indies on Sunday in the final match of Group B. However, a West Indies win would see them into the last eight.

Russell, caught on 39 at longon by Trott only to be awarded a six after the diving fielder just glanced the boundary marker, saw his 46-ball innings end when he was lbw to World Cup debutant Tredwell.

Tredwell was named man-ofthe-match for his four for 48.

England then saw Sarwan turn Swann (3 for 36) straight to Ian Bell at short leg.

Two balls later Kemar Roach was caught by a diving Chris Tremlett off Swann to leave West Indies 223 for nine.

Earlier, Luke Wright kept England's hopes alive with 44 after they'd slumped to 134 for five.

Trott (47) was the only other England batsman who made more than Strauss's 31 in an innings where debutant leg-spinner Davendra Bishoo took three wickets and Russell claimed four.

Contact us on: sports@herald-goa.com

Ponting sorry for Smith strop

BANGALORE: Australia captain Ricky

Ponting apologised for his on-field strop after colliding with teammate Steven Smith in Wednesday's World Cup win over Canada.

Ponting screamed for the catch off Harvir Baidwan, but after successfully

pouching the opportunity he angrily threw the ball to the ground.

"We both actually called for it at exactly the same time, which was why there was some confusion around," Ponting explained.

"It wasn't a great reaction I guess. But it certainly wasn't designed to try to inspire the team or anything like that, or to make Steven look in any way in the wrong place or make him look silly.