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OPPOSITION ON A HIGH HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

Mickky gets three more days in jail HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, JULY 20

The Judicial Magistrate First Class, Margao on Tuesday extended the police custody of former tourism minister, Mickky Pacheco by three days.

Pacheco was produced before JMFC Devidas Kerkar on Tuesday noon after the expiry of his 11day remand in police custody.

During arguments, the prosecution led by Assistant Public Prosecutor Sunita Gawde called for extending Pacheco’s police custody by three days on grounds that the accused is required in custody to recover the missing articles, besides the weapon of assault.

On the other hand, the former minister’s legal counsel, Adv Amit Palyekar opposed further extension of Pacheco’s custody saying the investigating agency has not interrogated his client in custody for the last five days.

Claiming that the investigating agency has been sitting idle since the arrest of Pacheco 11 days ago, Adv Palyekar prayed that the former minister be remanded to one day police custody if at all the Crime Branch wants to interrogate him further in the case.

JMFC Devidas Kerkar later ordered extension of Pacheco’s police custody by three days.

Mickky will be produced before the JMFC on July 23.

Speaker Pratapsing Rane on Tuesday found himself in a tight spot over Opposition MLAs pressing demand for a Central Bureau of Investigation inquiry into the police-drug mafia nexus during the second day of the Monsoon Session of the Goa Legislative Assembly.

The resolve of the MLAs during Question Hour was such that the Speaker not knowing what to do adjourned the House for 10 minutes. Before leaving Rane maintained he could not force the Government on the inquiry.

But the Opposition stuck to its guns as the Speaker returned after the 10-minute break.

With just 15 minutes remaining for the lunch break, Opposition leader Manohar Parrikar demanded there should be a decision on the floor of the House for a CBI inquiry or else there was no need to go on with the Question Hour session.

As Parrikar stood up and stuck to his demand for CBI inquiry all the Opposition MLAs started walking towards the well of the House shouting slogans like “Shame shame” and “Ek do, ek do (one two, two), Congress ko uthake fek do (throw the Congress out)…”.

The Speaker non-committal on the inquiry, once again adjourned the House and walked away for the lunch break.

Demand CBI probe into police-drug mafia nexus l Assembly session adjourned twice over ruckus l Parrikar claims he saw Atala with politician’s son l

Sanatan men get terror tag HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

Photo by Rozario Estibeiro.

UP-IN-ARMS: Opposition MLAs rush towards the well of the House shouting slogans in support of their demand for a CBI probe into the police-drug mafia nexus even as Speaker Pratapsing Rane looks on.

Parrikar maintained most of the ruling MLAs supported the Opposition’s demand. At least 34 of the MLAs are supporting us, he claimed. “Congress MLAs Victoria Fernandes, Agnelo Fernandes and Dayanand Narvekar and Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party’s Deepak Dhavlikar are supporting us on this”, he stated.

Supporting the Opposition, Narvekar demanded to know what the Government was doing

to remove the serious strictures passed by the High Court of Bombay at Goa against it in the police-drug mafia nexus case.

The State is unwilling to handover the case to the CBI because it is scared more skeletons will fall out from the cupboard, he asserted.

When Chief Minister Digambar Kamat came out in support of the police by stating that they had taken suo motu cognisance of the drugs case in which sev-

Student run over by train at Comba HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, JULY 20

In a tragic accident, a Std XII girl, student of Damodar Science Higher Secondary, Margao was run over by a speeding train at the Comba railway crossing on Tuesday morning.

The death of the young girl triggered outrage from the school management and local residents as it brought to fore the inadequate facilities at the Comba railway crossing for the 1500-student community to make it to the nearby educational institutions.

The incident occurred early morning when deceased Roshni Rego along with four other students headed for school from their village Batti-Sanguem.

When the vehicle carrying them approached the Comba subway to cross over to the school, the driver found the same inundated with rain water and decided to drop the students near the railway crossing.

Talking tough, External Affairs Minister S M Krishna today told Pakistan to take “seriously” the revelations made by LeT operative David Headley on the Mumbai attacks and not “push them under the carpet”.

Faced with a series of flip-flops from Pakistan, India’s concerns with regard to the 26/11 attacks will only be addressed “slowly” by that country, the Minister believed.

“Whatever Headley has told the FBI has to be taken seriously by Pakistan and India’s concerns have to be addressed”, he told reporters accompanying him on his way back from Kabul, where he attended the International Conference on

(Continued on page 10)

Rejected twice, Dudu may move SC for bail HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

The submerged subway. (Inset) Roshni.

It is learnt that since the railway crossing was closed for vehicular traffic, these students decided to cross the tracks through a narrow opening, anxious to make it to the school on time.

Roshni, who was the last amongst the students to cross the tracks, was hit by the speeding Vasco-Colem train. Within moments, the badly mutilated body of the deceased girl was found lying on the tracks, with

Photo by Santosh Mirajkar.

her body severed into two parts.

Chairman of the Damodar Higher Secondary School, Bhai Naik said the school had been demanding a footbridge for a long time for the students to cross the tracks, but in vain. He said the accident occurred because the subway was literally converted into a swimming pool by heavy overnight rains, adding that the incident could have been averted if the authorities

Pakistan must take Headley revelations seriously: India PTI ON BOARD SPECIAL AIRCRAFT, JULY 20

eral police personnel were arrested, Parrikar stood up and rubbished the CM’s stand.

He countered saying the police never took suo motu cognisance. “It was only after the youtube videos making the serious allegations against the police came to the notice of the media, which highlighted the same, the men in khaki were forced to act”, he mentioned.

In what could be a serious

Whatever Headley has told the FBI has to be taken seriously by Pakistan and India’s concerns have to be addressed. — S M Krishna Afghanistan.

He was responding to a question on Home Secretary G K Pillai’s contention that ISI was involved in the Mumbai terror attacks.

“Whether we like it or not, Headley’s statements have come into the public domain. His revela-

tions cannot be brushed under the carpet”, Krishna said.

Headley had told Indian investigators in Chicago that the ISI was involved in the planning of the 26/11 attacks from “beginning to the end”.

During his visit to Islamabad in June, Home Minister P Chidambaram had provided leads to Pakistan based on Headley’s interrogation by Indian authorities.

Krishna’s comments came on a day Pakistan dismissed as “baseless” India’s contention that Headley was linked to the Pakistani establishment and intelligence agencies.

Asked about the roadmap for the Indo-Pak talks, Krishna made it clear that New Delhi was keen to continue the dialogue process with Pakistan.

(Continued on page 10)

For the first time in last 10 months the State Government has called the four Sanatan Sanstha (SS) members accused of carrying out the 2009 Diwalieve blast at Margao as terrorists’.

In a written reply to the State Legislative Assembly, Home Minister Ravi Naik referred the four arrested members as terrorists.

“In the year 2009/10, four terrorists have been arrested by Goa police in bomb blast incidents, which took place at Margao and Verna, respectively on the night of Diwali i.e. on 16/10/2010”, the written reply states.

A local court has already framed charges against the four members namely Vinay Talekar,

After facing two bail dismissals by local courts, international drug dealer David Driham aka Dudu is most likely to move Supreme Court for regular bail.

Advocate Raju Poulekar, representing Dudu, said he will shortly approach the apex court following the rejection of his bail by Narcotics and Drugs Psychotropic Substances Court and Bombay High Court at Goa. “We will move Supreme Court opposing the other two rejection orders. We are, however, not certain on the date…”, Poulekar told Herald.

The Israeli last week had moved NDPS Court seeking permission to get his dental treatment done by a private doctor of his choice. The court, in its order on Monday, granted him

permission on condition that he will bear all expenses including traveling, doctor’s fee and most importantly police escorts.

“Dudu is suffering from extreme tooth decay. We made an application to get him treated by a private dentist of his choice because the Goa Dental College said it was unable to fix an appointment for four months”, said the advocate.

The Dental College had earlier advised Dudu to extract the affected tooth. The drug dealer who has hogged attention for his bizarre acts is however adamant to save the tooth by opting for root canal. As against this, public prosecutor Shiral Monteiro insisted on treating Dudu at the Dental College.

Judge Bimba Thaly admitted Dudu’s petition and granted him (Continued on page 10)

In the year 2009-10, four terrorists have been arrested by Goa police in bomb blast incidents which took place at Margao and Verna, respectively on the night of Diwali i.e. on 16/10/2010.

— Ravi’s written reply to the Assembly V i n a y a k Pa t i l , D h a n a n j a y Ashtekar and Dilip Mangaonkar.

Five others accused also members of the Sanatan are still absconding, according to police.

The accused have been framed under penal provisions dealing with waging war against the (Continued on page 10)

Naidu flown to Hyderabad TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu was put on a special aircraft and flown back to Hyderabad with his supporters after Maharashtra withdrew cases against them in connection with their protest on the Babhli dam issue. – (PTI) (Related report on Pg 14)

What do you expect when Air India pilot is being downgraded as an Indian Railways engine driver?

He'll simply take off...

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GOA, WEDNESDAY, 21 JULY, 2010

APPOINTMENTS

Fishing jetty on cards along Katem-Baina

Remind CM about RP Mauvin: govt failed on promise, GBA to MLAs HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

Goa Bachao Abhiyan in a letter to all MLAs has requested for a follow-up on the assurance given by the chief minister on the floor of the House in the last Assembly Session on the Regional Plan 2021 that the same would be ready in the next six months (i.e. by Sept 2010).

GBA has now demanded in case the Government fails in finalising the RP by the said month, the MLAs should press for a freeze on construction as per VP3 status or 50 FAR (floor area ratio) to stop irreparable damage to the State.

In the letter, the GBA maintained it has been monitoring

the progress of the RP 2021 very closely. More than four months have passed, without even a single taluka plan being approved by the State Level Committee, it mentioned.

It reminded that the CM had on March 4, 2010, promised representatives of GBA and village groups village plans would be incorporated into final taluka plans for Pernem and Canacona talukas and the same would be made available for public scrutiny as test cases.

The letter stated further, “It is also a fact that illegal constructions and mining are taking place at a rapid pace, especially in eco-sensitive areas taking advantage of the delay of the RP.”

APPOINTMENTS

garbage front HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

Even as the Deputy Speaker and Cortalim MLA Mauvin Godinho praised his government for its performance in certain areas, he did not hesitate to stress on the fact that govt has failed to deal with garbage problem.

Godinho took up the issue while participating in the general discussion on the budget for 2010-11, on Tuesday, saying site for garbage treatment has not been found in the last three years and thus civic bodies in his constituency are with faced problem. He insisted that the government should urgently solve the problem.

He also said there is an urgent need for fly-over near Dabolim airport to ease traffic because when two–three flights land at the same time -- it takes an hour to get out of airport area.

Talking about expansion of the Dabolim airport, he said, Navy is hindering expansion work and the government should handle the issue seriously or the expansion of the airport will come to a grinding halt.

HERALD REPORTER VASCO, JULY 20

It appears that the long-pending demand of the Goa Fishing Boat Owners Association (GFBOA) for a fishing harbour is finally taking shape, with a site likely to be set up along the Katem-Baina shore.

According to plans made available by the MPT, the proposed fishing jetty at Katem-Baina is to be built at a cost of Rs 36 crore, with a berth length of 300 metres. The harbour, which will have a capacity of 250 mechanized fishing vessels, is expected to be completed by 2013.

The GFBOA had earlier been unable to have a proper fishing harbour, as efforts had encountered obstacles on six occasions in the last 15 years and this was mainly due to objections from locals or the unfeasibility and cost factor.

The MPT and state government had suggested six different sites, including the existing fishing jetty at Khariwado, Chicalim bay, Chicolna and the Baina bay.

The GFBOA had agreed to shift from Khariwado, provided that they were given a decent fishing harbour.

The MPT was eager to relocate the fishing jetty as it had plans to expand the port. Claiming that it had to comply with the International Shipping and Port Security (ISPS) code, the MPT had stated that the existing jetty would pose a security threat to foreign vessels.

Around seven months ago, a joint meeting was convened and a site at Katem-Baina was proposed and the MPT, Navy, state government and GFBOA had given their consent to new site.

However, there were apprehensions that the Navy could object to the site on grounds that the area is a flying zone and that the proposed harbour could attract birds that could pose a serious threat to the planes. Besides, the proposed fishing harbour would also pose some problems to the underwater navy sensors.

Dispelling these fears, Flag

Officer of Goa Naval Area Rear Admiral Sudhir Pillai said: “We have agreed in principle to allow the proposed fishing harbour at Katem-Baina. We considered various aspects before agreeing to the proposed fishing harbour.”

“Some environment clearances are left and once jetty is in operation, some stringent environmental guidelines have to be followed, since the proposed fishing jetty is in the neighboring of a defense area,” he added.

Said GFBOA president Simon Pereira: “If no one objects to the proposed fishing jetty, then our dream would come true, as plans to build a new fishing jetty have always been hampered due to so reason or the other.”

“The GFBOA had recently submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Digamber Kamat, Opposition Leader Manohar Parrikar, Fisheries Minister Joaquim Alemao, Revenue Minister Jose Philip D’ Souza and the Mormugao MLA seeking their support to the proposed fishing jetty at Katem-Baina.

Decision on regulating city market likely in 2 days HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

The Corporation of City of Panaji’s (CCP) market committee is likely to meet in next couple of days to thrash out the issues dogging regulation of city market.

The Corporation had recently come out with a notice asking market tenants to pay off their rents as per new market rates of Rs 195 per sq meter as against Rs 30 by July 15. The tenants were also asked to provide proper documents over the allotment of market space within the said deadline.

However, as there was strong objection from the Market Tenant Association over the hiked rate, of the total 458 shops and stalls and 446 vegetable and flower vendors, only 90 tenants managed to approach CCP with proper allotment papers and supporting new market rates.

“The market committee will be meeting in next two-three days to decide on the faith of market tenants, who failed to approach us,” CCP Mayor Caroline Po told Herald.

Po, who also heads the market committee, said that the meeting will decide whether to extend the deadline or to take action against all those who failed to provide documents.

Corporator quits as chief of CCP panel HERALD REPROTER PANJIM, JULY 20

Uday Madkaikar, a corporator from ruling panel of Corporation of City of Panaji (CCP) on Monday resigned from the post of chairman of standing committee.

CCP Mayor Caroline Po said that Madkaikar has resigned from the committee without specifying any reasons.

The standing committee looks after the financial expenses of the Corporation.

Po said that six member committee will be meeting on Friday to discuss on the Po in the past had said that the shops will be publicly auctioned, if the tenants failed to prove its ownership.

Talking to Herald earlier, CCP commissioner Elvis Gomes had cleared that the corporation will be evicting all those shopkeepers, who fail to provide proper documents of their allotment and occupation.

CCP started the massive exercise after they realized that corporation was loosing huge

‘Segregating Sonsodo dump after monsoon’ HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, JULY 20

Fomento Green has said that work of segregating the existing dump at Sonsodo will be taken up immediately after the monsoons.

Fomento Project Implementation and Community Initiative, CEO Shridhar Kamat said the company is confident of meeting the target dates, which it has set up for itself to construct and operate the MSW treatment plant. “In addition to the ongoing works, it has been importantly ensured that there is no foul odour emanating from the dump site, by spraying the day to day waste hacterial solutions. This is critical so that the residents are not subjected to foul odour which was common earlier”, Kamat said.

Thanking the people of Margao for their wholehearted support and words of appreciation, Kamat said the measures taken to gather and manage the leachate generated at the site has yielded results. “The annual feature of the leachate from Sonsodo dump siet flowing in the public drains has been effectively contained”, he said, adding that a temporary composting

resignation and elect new head.

“Right now I have taken over as the chairman of the committee,” Po said.

Madkaikar was not available for his comments.

Sources stated that education minister Babush Monserratte has asked Madkaikar to step down from the post.

The standing committee attains important role in the financial management of the corporation. The CCP is in the bad news for ill managed finances, which were reflected in its annual budget. amount of revenue since 2003, as not a single pie was collected from the tenants.

Interestingly, one of the survey conducted by the civic body had proved that 295 sq meters of area is been illegal encroached by the vendors as against 1275 sq meters area allotted by the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC). Interestingly, their names are also not included in the GSIDC list.

House lauds new NCP chief Jose Philip HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

The Goa Assembly on Tuesday congratulated newly elected State President of the NCP, Jose Philip D’Souza and wished him good luck in his new endeavour.

The motion congratulating was moved by Curtorim MLA Aleixo Reginald Lawrence.

The Tourism Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar , the NCP MLA, wished his new president expressing confidence that he would take the party to new heights in Goa. The Transport Minister Sudin Dhavalikar while congratulating D’Souza said the new president will put an end to Aya Ram Gaya Ram politics. He was aparantly hitting out at his president Pandurang Raut, who recently quit MGP to join NCP. Others who wished D’Souza for his new role include Environment Minister Aleixo Sequeira, Fatorda MLA Damu Naik, Minister for Forest Filipe Neri Rodrigues.

The Chief Minister Digambar Kamat wished D’Souza saying he will work to strengthen the Congress –NCP ties. The congratulatory motion was unanimously accepted.

Film Producer: The House also congratulated film producer Dyaneshwar Govekar who has won Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

SEZ petitions: final arguments on July 27, 28

pad has been constructed to take care of day to day Municipal solid waste.

On the access road in the existing dump, Kamat said portion of the road have got depressed with the onset of monsoons. “Fomento Green have been aware of this and have been regularly monitoring the same. MMC has been assured that all possible measures will be taken to mitigate this genuine difficulty, which arises due to the wet weather conditions and the weak base”, he said.

As a step towards the solution, it has now been decided to open the next gate adjoining the existing main one and strengthen a section of the road on that side to allow the trucks to enter. “This will take care of the immediate problem of the present approach road getting depressed due to the passing of the trucks”, Kamat said.

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

The Bombay High Court at Goa will hear the final argument over petitions and public interest litigations (PIL) related to Special Economic Zone (SEZ) on July 27 and 28.

The Division Bench comprising of Justice A S Oka and Justice F M Reis today adjourned the final argument on a bunch petitions filed by six SEZ promoters and PIL’s filed by three villagers for next week on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The argument will be heard for two consecutive days, pending which, will be taken up on Thursday July 30.

The six SEZ promoters include Meditab Specialities Pvt Ltd, Peninsular Pharma Research Centre Pvt Ltd, Par-

adigm Logistic & Distribution Private Ltd, Planetview Mercantile Company Pvt Ltd, Inox Mercantile Company Pvt Ltd and Maxgrow Finlease Pvt Ltd. The SEZ promoters had approached the court after Goa Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC) served them show cause notices for withdrawal of land allotted to them after the state government withdrew the SEZ policy.

On June 15, 2009 the State government revoked SEZ policy following a cabinet decision.

The villagers of Keri, Sancoale and Verna, had filed PIL questioning the GIDC’s decision for fraudulently allotting land in their respective villages on lease agreements to the SEZ promoters.

Paints manufacturing unit asked to stop work HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

A day after the Environment Minister Alexio Sequiera assured the House of strict action against the company, the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) ordered a Berger Paints manufacturing unit located at the Pilerne industrial estate to suspend operations for polluting ground water resources.

Berger Paints, a major decorative paint manufacturing company in India, was being probed

by GSPCB for polluting ground water in villages near Pilerne Industrial Estate.

The suspension order was is-

sued by GSPCB Chairman Dr Simon de Souza after conducting a hearing on the issue.

The management of the company Berger Becker Industries Coating Private Limited has also been asked to “manage, handle and dispose off all the hazardous waste stored at the unit,” until which the operations will remain suspended.

The unit has also been asked to clear solvent, which was being discharged into the storm water drains and report to the authority within seven days.

The order also directs the district collector to seal the premises and disconnect the water

and electricity supply to the unit.

Replying to a calling attention motion yesterday, Sequeira had said that the State Pollution Control Board was conducting a hearing after residents of Saipem village filed a complaint under the Water and Air Pollution Act. "We will take strict action in accordance with law after the hearing, which is a part of official procedure," Alexio had assured the assembly.

Berger Becker Industries Coating Pvt Ltd manufactures industrial paint, industrial colour powders, white wash colours and paint pigments.

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GOA, WEDNESDAY, 21 JULY, 2010

Narvekar thrashes govt functioning HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

Strongly criticizing the functioning of the Digambar Kamat government Aldona legislator Dayanand Narvekar today said that it was time to retrospect otherwise only time will tell whether the government has done justice to the people.

Participating in the discussion on budget 2010-11, Narvekar, a former finance minister in the Kamat ministry, flayed the government functioning on several issues including agriculture, National Highway, government intervention scheme on price control, development, corruption, civil supplies, administration, extension of service for retired government employees and sports policy.

Narvekar said that the central government is kind enough to announce a fund of Rs 200 cr for 50 yrs celebration, however

“I ask whether this money would be used for right purpose or will it go into the pockets of the people ruling the state.”

He further stated that there is an imbalance in the development in the various constituencies of the state.

“Development should not only be limited to the constituencies in Salcete or South Goa,” he said adding “the money has to come equally to every constituency in the state.”

“By this attitude you are dividing both the districts of the State,” he said adding “…I am sure that the Rs 200 cr received from centre will also be used haphazardly.”

Government Intervention scheme: The scheme to control price has been a total failure, he said stating “nobody has control on this scheme”.

“The government is supplying commodities to 187 panchayats

…Asks govt to stop grants to Goa University Aldona legislator Narvekar today demanded that the government should stop grants to the Goa University as the latter has refused to give the benefits to the students under the Sports policy.

“As per my knowledge only students upto 12 standards are getting benefits of the sports policy the Goa University has thrown out the policy in dustbin,” he stated.

“What are we doing on this? They are refusing to comply,” he said.

“The government should immediately ask the university to fall in line by stopping their grants as they are totally dependent on the government,” he said. in just 10 vehicles,” Narvekar pointed out questioning the government seriousness on the scheme.

“How can you cover 187 panchayats in 10 vehicles as each village gets its turn only after a month,” he stated adding that the estimates committee has pointed out various anomalies

Opposition demands House Committee on 4/6 laning HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

Opposition leader Manohar Parrikar on Tuesday questioned the House over the logic of land acquisition before getting the environment clearance for the four- and six-laning of NH-17 and NH-4 and raised the demand for a House Committee to go into these and other important aspects.

Parrikar was talking during Question Hour on a query raised

by BJP MLA Vijay Pai Khot regarding proposed construction of the 4/6 lane highway in Canacona taluka.

Khot and Parrikar questioned Alemao on several aspects of the highway and were not too happy with his answers. Parrikar said the PWD Minister Churchill Alemao had been misguided on the issue.

Parrikar said the Central authority officers coming to Goa were misguiding the local officers on the width of the highway. There was a committee formed to look into several aspects and the same is non-func-

tional, he stated.

The Opposition leader said nowhere in the highway plan a bridge has been earmarked for Panjim that has seen ever-rising traffic entering its roads over the last few years. The data of traffic movement on the Mapusa-Panjim road is six years old and the same can’t be relied upon for the decision of a bridge on the river Mandovi, he stated.

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat said there were many apprehensions over the construction of the highways. “Sometime back a meeting was held in the Secretariat where vulnerable points were discussed in the presence of National Highway Authority of India chairman. We asked the NHAI for re-examination and directed Goa State Pollution Control Board to keep the public hearings in abeyance till documents were made available,” he informed.

Kamat said at the same time they would proceed with the land acquisition and other necessary formalities like environmental clearance. The consensus

reached was to have minimum damage to citizens’ properties, he stated.

Aldona ML A Dayanand Narvekar taking up the cause of Porvorim area demanded an assurance on setback.

Kamat mentioned those who had carried out constructions in the past had sworn on affidavits they will remove their compound walls if a highway was planned. These people at that time thought no highway will ever come, he stated. No relaxation in setback whatsoever should be given henceforth, he maintained.

The House also debated on having the six-lane highway with small service paths on both sides in a 35-metre area as was done in Kerala. Why for a small State like Goa a 75 metre area was required for the six-laning, it was pointed out.

Aleamo and a few others also spoke in favour of the House Committee but no assurance was forthcoming on it nor was any decision taken in this regard.

in the scheme. “I understand that the commodities under the scheme only go to the black marketing,” he said.

Administration: Narvekar said the total administration in the state is come to a standstill.

“The administration is collapsed. The government serv a n t s a re d i s r u p t i o n t h e

‘Mapusa hospital will take off in March 2011’ HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

The State government today told Bombay High Court at Goa that the new district hospital at Mapusa will start functioning by March 2011.

Following the directives from the court, the government today filed an affidavit stating that the hospital ill begin its functioning

by March 2011.

Appearing on behalf of the government Advocate General Subodh Kantak told the Court that the government will appoint a consultant that will help start the hospital.

The Court was hearing a petition by Prakash Sardessai which has been pending since last three years. The petition has raised the issue of quality of public health care and conditions of the government-run health institutions. The Court, earlier this month had asked the government to spell out outer time limit by which it would commission the hospital.

Nadia’s mom gets conditional bail HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, JULY 20

Police question brother in IPHB HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

Asserting that it is a well settled proposition of law that “bail” is the rule and “jail” an exception, the South Goa Sessions Court on Tuesday granted conditional bail to Nadia Torrado’s mother Sonia, who was arrested by the Crime branch on July 15.

Additional Sessions Judge B P Deshpande ordered that the accused to be released on bail of Rs 20,000 with one surety of an identical amount. The accused was directed to attend the police station as and when called by the Investigating Officer and shall cooperate with the Investigation Officer.

The court further directed the accused not to tamper with the prosecution witness and shall not leave the state without prior permission of the court.

Saying that the accused is a teacher by procession, Judge Deshpande observed that the accused had made herself available for investigations from the day she returned back from Chennai and attended the police stations whenever called and cooperated with the investigating machinery.

Referring to the Crime

Crime Branch sleuths today questioned Conrad Torroado in connection with the death of his older sister Nadia Torrado. The recently passed out MBA gold medalist was admitted to Institute of Psychiatric and Human Behaviour (IPHB) at Bambolim after he fell into depression, last week.

Inspector Sunita Sawant confirmed that a team was sent to IPHB to question Conrad refuting rumours of his arrest.

“We have sent a team to question Conrad. We are also in touch with the IPHB doctors on his mental health status,” she told Herald.

He was reportedly quizzed on Nadia’s behaviour before she apparently consumed rat poison on May 14; main accused former tourism minister Mickky’s Pacheco’s visits to their place in Fatorda; as well

branch plea that the accused will tamper with evidence or indulge in further destruction of evidence, the Judge said a period of two months have already passed from the date of the incident, adding that the prosecution did not disclose as to what further material or evidence could be tampered with.

Similarly, the Judge said the prosecution did not disclose as to what further destruction is possible and kept pending since already a period of two months have passed.

On the plea that Sonia is required in police custody to obtain call details for the period from May 13-15, Judge Desh-

as Pacheco’s association with the Torrado family, Nadia’s belongings, etc.

Conrad had to be shifted to IPHB when he showed suicidal tendencies, soon after his mother Sonia was arrested for culpable homicide and destruction of evidence in the Nadia death probe. She was however bailed-out in an order by the Margao Sessions Court today.

Meanwhile, the higher-ups held a meeting with the investigating agency in the police headquarters, which lasted for over an hour. What transpired in the meeting is yet to be known.

Nadia died on May 29 after she allegedly consumed poison and had to be taken to Margao Hospicio hospital from where she was taken to Thane Jupiter hospital in a chartered ambulance and finally to Chennai Apollo hospital for liver transplant.

pande said such call details could be collected from the service provider and not from the accused.

The Judge literally questioned the Crime branch why Sonia was not arrested by the investigating agency in the last one month if they wanted to recover the alleged items, laptop, mobile sets and even the ratol past tube. On the whereabouts of the maid servant, Judge said this was within the knowledge of the investigating officer, but the agency did not arrest the accused though she was called on many occasions.

Sonia’a legal counsel Adv Radharao Gracias in his argu-

ments had drawn attention of the court that Pacheco’s OSD Lydon Monteiro, who was charged for destruction of evidence, has been granted anticipatory bail by the supreme court. In this respect, Judge Deshpande said that one accused against whom there were charges of destroying of evidence, similar of that faced by Sonia, has already been released on bail by the Supreme court and only the main accused is in custody at present.

“The accused is a lady and therefore she is covered under the proviso of Section 437 (ii) of Cr P C. Further, the accused was available from day one when the case was taken up by CID, Crime branch, and she was called and interrogated on many occasions. She has cooperated on all occasions and her statements have been recorded from time to time. Thus, it is clear that she has cooperated with the prosecution with regard to the present matter,” Judge Deshpande added.

On the aspect of recovery of some articles, Judge Deshpande said “admittedly, the accused is a teacher by profession and she has attended the police station as and when called. The aspect of recovery, if any, could be carried out without keeping her in custody,” the Judge said.

The Judge further said the accused is arrested only for destruction of evidence, adding that there is nothing alleged in the Crime branch reply that the accused is also involved with regard to the offense of culpable homicide, which is in fact leveled against the main accused.

governance,” he said.

Agriculture: Narvekar stated that the small farmers are dying a slow death as the have failed to provide any support to them.

“The government announced a subsidy scheme of a financial assistance of Rs 50,000 for the farmers who have land of 2 hectares. But my question is what will happen to small farmers whose land is less,” he asked.

He also wanted to know when the Horticulture Policy will be implemented.

“The announcement was made a year ago but still nothing has happened,” he stated adding that things are not moving into right direction.

Further Narvekar said the time is come for the government to retrospect what they have done in last three years.

“Otherwise only time will whether you have done justice to people or not,” he said.

Within hours after the media exposed that the imprisoned Israeli drug dealer had an easy access to social networking portal Facebook from behind bars, the page was withdrawn today. The revelation, on Monday had left local authorities red-faced even as they assured an inquiry into the matter.

Dudu’s account, which was last updated on June 18, is no more in existence.

“The page you requested was not

found. You may have clicked an expired link or mistyped the address. Some we addresses are case sensitive…return home…go back to previous page,” flashed this page-reply when clicked on David Driham aka Dudu’s Facebook address.

Dudu, arrested for possessing cocktail of narcotics in his possession, was in constant touch with his fiancé Zarine Driham, a Kazaksthan national, his sister and friends through the Facebook portal.

The alleged drug dealer was lately re-

located to judicial lock-up at Vasco subjail from Central Jail in Aguada. He is behind bars since February 21, this year when he was arrested with cocaine, heroine, LSD and charas, to a whooping Rs 3.81-lakhs at Anjuna.

"My baby I love you so much, my fiance," Dudu said in the Facebook remark written to Zarine Driham on April 15.

Whilst his friends back in Israel also sent complimentary messages whishing him luck in the case trial via Facebook chat.

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

In a few more months people can expect to get their electricity bills on time. The power department plans to outsource “spot billing” to tide over the problem of not being able to give bills on time due to lack of manpower.

Power Minister Alexio Sequeira while responding to the grievance raised by Curtorim MLA, Alexio Reginaldo during Zero Hour on Tuesday stated on the floor of House that the department has resorted to spot billing on trial basis. There are some teething problems though they hope to overcome them soon.

The Curtorim MLA had complaint that people do not get electricity bills on time and sometimes bills are given after a gap of two-three months. The minister said he was acutely aware of the problem. The department is not able to give bills on time because services of the electricity department staff are sought for

Panel calls for probe on illegal mining HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

The Ad Hoc Committee (ADC) has recommended that the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) should conduct a fact finding study of the illegal mining activities, if any, and also investigate and study the modalities of the illegal mechanism.

The ADC has also suggested that CEC should come out with remedial measures that could be implemented to check violations of the Mines and Minerals (Development) Act, 1957 and Forest Conservation Act (FCA), 1980.

The ADC in its report which was presented in the House today has recommended that there should not be administrative delay in deciding the renewal application for mining. It has pointed out that the continuing mining over a long period of time without the renewal of the mining leases is a potential source for serious illegalities and irregularities.

And therefore, the scheme of the newly designed transit passes for use by those transporting minerals from the mining areas to other places in the State and inter-State should be undertaken expeditiously.

It has further suggested that investigation through a competent authority in co-ordination with Central Bureau of Investi-

House pays tribute to Adv Velho HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

The Goa Assembly on Tuesday paid rich tribute to Adv Leo Velho, ex-MLA of Goa, Daman and Diu from Navelim Constituency who passed away on July 18, 2010.

The House observed silence to condole the death of Adv Velho who served three terms in Goa assembly, on two occasions as candidate of United Goan and third time he was elected on Indian National Congress ticket.

PWD Minister Churchill Alemao while making obituary reference said late Adv Velho always had a smiling face and he would be remembered for his services to Goans.

Condolence: The House also condoled the untimely death of Dr Sushrut Martins, homeopath and social activist who died on April 30, 2010. Deputy Speaker Mauvin Godinho said people would remember Dr Martins as a selfless Goan who actively participated in many agitations including agitation for Konkani.

Ex-finance minister and Aldona MLA while describing Dr Martins as an exemplary Goan said, death should not have come to him at such an early age. St Cruz MLA said people would always remember him as good human being.

Dudu’s Facebook page withdrawn after expose HERALD RPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

Spot billing will be outsourced: Alexio

"Come on bro Aba’ah truth will come and you will be with us here" Nahari Eyal, Dudu’s friend from Farzliya, Israel, stated.

"Atonement for you. All miss you, and keep you fingers crossed," Jude Yhudit Azulay, a photographer based in Ramat Gen, Israeli wrote.

Dudu’s sister, who frequently visits Goa, also kept in touch with her brother on Facebook.

Inspector General of Prison Mihir Vardhan had assured carrying out a thorough inquiry.

gation (CBI) should be undertaken to prevent the illegal mining activities in the State.

The State Government however maintained that effective measures have been initiated to keep on illegal mining. The department of Mines has constituted two flying squads for North Goa and South Goa to conduct surprise checks. Besides, Monitoring committee set-up by the government is also in operation.

It is also consideration of the government to track the source of illegal mining, if any, to introduce the system of movement permits as followed in other States. There are about 100 mining leases in operation in the State.

Furthermore, to tighten two exit points -- Mormugao and Panjim Ports from where the ore is exported, to insist upon the exporters on the movements permits issued by the department of mines at the time of presentation of the shipping bills or before allowing sailing of the vessels.

However, the proposal was not accepted by the Ministry of Finance and the State Government has now approached the Ministry of Shipping and Industry, to consider issuing instructions to MPT for insistence of movement permits before allowing the vessels to sail.

other works even as the government was requested to intervene, he said.

He also told the House that due to late billing, assistant engineers have been directed to allow people to pay bills on installment. He also assured Reginaldo that from next month people in his constituency would get their electricity bills on time.

Lathicharge: Chief Minister Digambar Kamat clarified that there was no lathicharge yesterday when retired teachers held a morcha in Porviorim demanding that they should also be given benefits of the Sixth Pay Commission.

He said, he made enquiries and found that there were two morchas on Monday, one by government employees and the other by retired teachers who had not taken permission from the authorities. They were stopped at the highway and barricades were put which they removed and hence were rounded up and taken to the police station but released soon after, said Kamat while reacting to Zero Hour mention by the Opposition Leader Manohar Parrikar.

Parrikar requested the government to instruct the police to be careful when it’s a morcha of senior citizens.

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Theft accused remanded to police custody HERALD CORRESPONDENT OLD GOA, JULY 20

The Panjim Judicial Magistrate First Class on Tuesday remanded the five accused, arrested on charges of stealing valuables worth Rs 5.58 lakh from a car at Old Goa, to ten days police custody for further interrogation in the case.

It may be noted that Old Goa police had arrested five Gujrati men on charges of stealing gold ornaments and other items from a stationary taxi near the Bom Jesus Basilica.

“We have also recovered a laptop and a camera from the five accused, who have admitted to a theft case at Mahableshwar,” Old Goa PI Corte told Herald.

The five accused are Pankaj Rupsingh Rathod (28), Bunty Rajesh Shinkrekar (27), Navinchandra Subash Rathod (25), Yatin Babubai Bongire (25) and Praful Pramat (26), all from Ahemdabad-Gujarat.

Belgaum cops arrest three vehicle lifters, 13 cars seized HERALD CORRESPONDENT BELGAUM, JULY 20

Belgaum police on Tuesday arrested three vehicle lifters in separate incidents and seized 13 cars from them, including a car which had been sold to a customer in Goa. Basavaraj Karadiguddi, who had stolen many four-wheelers in Bangalore and sold them in Belgaum over the past few months, was arrested at Bagewadi.

According to police sources, Karadiguddi, a resident of Macche-Belgaum, was operating the network from Belgaum, and headed a big gang of robbers in various parts of Karnataka.

The police have recovered 12 cars from him. Incidentally, the alleged drug peddler, Akash Desai, who is in Hindalga prison, is the close aide of Karadiguddi.

Karadiguddi was earlier running a vehicle lifting network on the orders of Akash Desai.

Akash Desai was allegedly involved in exporting life-threatening drugs via Goa to various countries by packing them between laminated photo frames.

The police have also arrested four residents of Belgaum who bought the stolen cars from Karadiguddi. Both Basavraj and four arrested persons have been remanded to judicial custody.

In another incident, another car lifter Surabhi alias Parashram alias Madumaga of Sorba in Sagar district (Karnataka) and Santosh Sadashiv Kabade, Bijapur, were arrested at Kamkaratti near Hirebagewadi along the Pune-Bangalore highway.

On interrogation, it was revealed that the duo had stolen a Toyota Innova car (KA-02-D 26) from Bangalore, which they had sold to a customer in Goa. According to sources, a drug peddler, who is engaged in renting cars to foreigners and drug peddling at North Goa beaches, had rented a car to a tourist from Italy, who is in Goa regarding some case against him.

The Innova was recovered

by Belgaum police from Arpora beach in north Goa recently with a changed number plate.

Highly placed sources informed that a drug peddler who operates from the Shiroda beach in Sindhudurg and uses the Sindhudurg-Goa border to accomplish the crime.

A series of number plates of Goa registration are also being used to sell cars lifted from Karnataka and other places, revealed sources.

Belgaum police is on the trail of this peddler who had allegedly bought the Innova from Surabhi and Santosh.

Vehicle lifter killed in encounter HERALD CORRESPONDENT BELGAUM, JULY 20

In a daring encounter, Belgaum district police killed a notorious vehicle lifter at Kumbharwada village near Alnavar in Dharwad district on Tuesday afternoon.

Manjunath Kumbar of Bailhongal-Belgaum, who headed a gang of criminals involved in lifting and selling a number of two and fourwheelers in Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka, was killed in an encounter with the Belgaum district police.

Providing details of the encounter, Superintendent of Police Sonia Narang told Herald that police received a tip that a gang of notorious vehicle lifters was moving in a four-wheeler.

“A police team, headed by Ramdurg CPI P B Naidu along with Kittur CPI Nagraj set out on a hot pursuit of these criminals and intercepted their vehicle near Alnavar.

The gang was moving in a car that was snatched from Bangalore last week,” said SP Narang.

“As soon as the police managed to stop the car, the gangsters in an attempt to flee began firing at the police. Three persons managed to flee from the site. However, in a return fire by the police, Kumbar was shot dead on the spot,” she added.

The police was on the hunt for the gang in connection with many vehicle thefts and cases were registered against them in various police stations already.

These notorious gangsters were engaged in lifting of vehicles from Belgaum, Goa and Maharashtra. Belgaum police had recently arrested three members of the gang making it difficult for the gang to sell its vehicles in Belgaum and surrounding areas.

The Belgaum police suspect a big nexus between drug peddlers of Goa, who are ram-

pantly purchasing cars from car lifters in Belgaum, to rent them out to tourists in Goa.

Eminent Konkani writers should get Sahitya awards: Eduardo

Magao CDP: one month sought for suggestions

ently of the script.

Speaking further, Faleiro said Konkani is being taught only in Devnagiri script for the last about 50 year in all schools in Goa, including Diocesan schools and even in the seminaries where Catholic Priests are trained. “As a result, most Goans can now read Konkani in Devnagiri script. Even before Liberation in June 1961, the Pilar Society had started the Fr Agnel Prathmik Vidyalaya in Curchorem teaching Konkani in Devnagiri script. There were 37 students in the first year and the school continues with increased number of students”, Faleiro said.

He, however, expressed surprise that only Romi script is used in the liturgy of the Catholic Churches in Goa. “Elsewhere in the country, national scripts are used by the Catholic Church. For instance, in the Churches in Mangalore, only the Kanada script is used for Konkani”, Faleiro said and called upon the Catholic

HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, JULY 20

HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, JULY 20

NRI Affairs Commissioner Eduardo Faleiro has asserted that Sahitya Academy awards should be made available for eminent writers in Konkani, whether they write in Romi, Devnagiri or Kanada scripts.

Speaking at the annual Gulab awards function organised by Fr Freddy J Da Costa Memorial Trust held at the Grace Church hall on Tuesday, Faleiro said he would take the initiative to speak to Sahitya Academy authorities if Konkani writers in Goa agreed to his suggestion.

He assured that the Sahitya Academy would have no objection to grant their awards to deserving writers independ-

Order on cognoscibility of IPC Sec 506 today HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

The Bombay High Court at Goa will pass its judgment declaring whether section 506 of Indian Penal Code (IPC) is cognizable or non-cognizable on July 21.

The Division Bench verdict will come as an order to the petition filed by Health Minister Vishwajeet Rane who has challenged the indictment filed against him under section 506 of IPC for allegedly having threatened to kill social activist Aires Rodrigues, on the grounds that the offence was non- cognizable.

Sec 506 was made cognizable through a notification issued in 1973 when Vishwajeet’s father Pratapsing Rane was the Law Minister.

Also Rodrigues, himself was earlier indicted under this section in connection with the 2004 Ribandar Church incident involving a priest.

Rodrigues was acquitted after five-year long legal battle.

However, the State government on June 30, 2009 reverted its earlier stand claiming the section as noncognizable.

Accordingly a proposal was moved by Advocate General Subodh Kantak instructing all Public Prosecutors to withdraw all cases filed by the police under Sec 506 of IPC as the section was non-cognizable.

The High Court verdict on Wednesday will decide the fate of all these proceedings filed under section 506 and pending in various courts across Goa. In a 73-page indictment filed by the Old Goa Police, Vishwajeet faces charges under Sec 506 of IPC which carries a punishment of imprisonment upto seven years or fine, or both.

Church in Goa to circulate their written material during religious services in Konkani both in Romi and Devnagiri scripts.

In his address, Fr Conceissao D’Silva paid rich tributes to late Fr Freddy da Costa for his immense contribution to the Konkani language and literature.

Fr D’Silva made an appeal to the people to enrich Konkani language, saying the language will not survive if not supported and protected by the people.

On the occasion, the Gulab awards were announced and distributed at the hands of the chief guest. The Gulab award for the Man of the Year was bagged by A N Nagvenkar, while the Romi Konkani writer of the year went to Felix P da Cruz. The Tiatrist of the year went to Ambe.

The Singer of the Year (male) was awarded to Sidhanath Buyao, while the female singer of the year was bagged by Roma Fernandes.

UpComIng EVEnTS Art of living course

PANJIM (HND): Art of living course designed by Sri Sri Ravi Shanker has commenced at Sri Sri Management Studies, Borda, Margao from July 19 and will continue till July 24, from 7 pm to 9.30 pm.

The course has a powerful breathing technique ‘Sudarshan Kriya’ which will be taught and is very effective for stress and stress induced ailments as depression, diabetics, hyper tension, etc.

Interested persons contact Dr Venkatesh Hegde on 9422063255.

One-month ritual begins

VASCO (HR): An annual one-month ritual ‘Ashtadrvya Ganapathi Homayagnam’ and ‘Ashtadala Padma Bhagavati Seva’ commenced from July 17 at Sree Ayyappa temple in Mangor Hill, here.

While the Ashtadrvya Ganapathi Homam will be performed everyday at 6.15 am, the Bhagavati Seva will be performed at 7.15 pm.

Devotees wish to offer poojas have been directed to book in advance by payment of Rs 355 and devotees may avail further details from the Ayyappa Seva Samithi office, at Ayyappa temple or on phone (0832-2531636).

Healing crusade

PANJIM (HND): There will be a healing crusade organised by Prayermount Shalom Life Ministries by Bro R Amalesh Kumar on July 22 at Holy Family Prayer Hall, Jackniband. For assistance, volunteers, ambulance and bus services, contact 9096700055/9822152582.

Expo of crochet items

PANJIM (HND): An exhibition cum sale of crochet items, prepared by members of Industrial Handicraft and Handloom Cooperative Society, will be held on July 22 to 24 at 9-B, government quarters, Patto, Panjim.

Industrial Handicraft and Handloom co-operative Society is a society working in the field of handicrafts for the last 30 years and the members of the society are preparing various items of crochet which have lot of demand in the market. The society provides the training, supply of material, design and guidelines regarding the production.

This is the first exhibition that the society is organizing in the premises of the society’s office. Various items of crochet such as table cloths, book mark, bed covers, runners, coasters, dressing table sets, dinner table sets, meti hand towels, dusters, etc will be available for sale. The exhibition will be open from 9.30 am to 6.30 pm on all 3 days.

The South Goa District Consumer Forum has directed the Margao Municipal Council to provide minimum one month for the citizens to lodge objections and suggestions once the revised City Development Plan (CDP) is displayed for public viewing.

Forum President Jagdish Prabhudessai on Tuesday passed the order during hearing of the application filed by Bailancho Ekvott President Auda Viegas demanding adequate time frame for the citizens’ objections and suggestions to the controversial plan.

Chief Officer Y B Tawde, who was present during the hearing, submitted to the Forum that the CDP will be revised before displaying once against for public viewing.

At this juncture, the Forum President directed that the Margao Municipal council keep open the CDP for public viewing for a period of one month for the citizens to lodge their objections and suggestions.

The controversial CDP was withdrawn by the MMC last week following instructions from CM Digambar Kamat against the backdrop of opposition building up against the Plan.

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People advised not to depend on others to clean villages HERALD CORRESPONDENT MAYEM, JULY 20

Bicholim Lions Club President Dr Shekhar Salkar has advised people to undertake cleanliness drives in their villages without depending on any other authorities, to prevent diseases like malaria, jaundice and chikungunya.

He was addressing a cleanliness awareness campaign undertaken by Lions Club in association with Indian Medical association (IMA) and PHC Bicholim at Maruti temple

Naiknagar Bicholim.

“Such a cleanliness awareness drive will be undertaken in all 10 wards of Bicholim,” Dr Salkar said.

Dr Medha Salkar of PHC Bicholim highlighted the causes of different viral fevers and suggested ways to prevent such diseases during the monsoon.

Councillor Aruna Patnekar, who was also present on the occasion, requested the people to make Bicholim city plasticfree and clean.

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rasanna Ghotage stands like a lighthouse guiding ships in troubled waters.

He presides over a vast empire, which has provided employment to hundreds of families.

Mr Prasanna is tireless in his efforts and one finds him busy all the time. He is a much trav-

Prasanna Ghotage – a philanthropist eled person who is always on the move. If today you find him at Belgaum, tomorrow you can trace him either in Dehli or

Bangalore.

Prasanna leads a simple and contented family life. He is a man off many facets. He is a visionary and philanthropist. He is considerate and concerned about the well being of others.

That is why he commands respect and admiration from the PVG family.

In spite of his busy schedule he finds time to attend cultural functions in Belgaum. Thereafter he is back to Goa or Mumbai.

Prasanna Ghotage is never tight fisted. In fact he is generous to a fault. He donates handsomely. He has achieved academic excellence and traveled a long way to reach the summit of success. He is a man of wonderful memory.

He’s subjects often jest that he may be having a computing brain!

At the personal level, he’s always at home while dealing with people. A CEO working in reputed Chinese company or a common worker from Tinaighat or Castlerock is equal to him. Infact he takes pleasure wile working with an ordinary worker.

Prasannaji built his empire in a short span of a decade. In short, he started from scratch.

He has been a guiding star to others. Many have trodden the path and found success in mining. The fact cannot be overlooked that PVG has lead them.

and Industries.

PVG Translines has been providing cozy, luxurious bus rides from Belgaum to Bangalore, Pune, Mumbai daily. Regularity,

Prasanna Ghotage with UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and other prominent leaders of the Congress.

Prasanna Ghotage with Rahul Gandhi and other dignitaries.

Mining, export of ore, petrol pump and transport are some of the fields where one finds a stamp of success of the PVG group. Prassanna has

his Midas touch. In the beginning his activities were restricted to the transportation of ore. His success traveled far and wide across the seven

seas. He has established his name as an exporter. He has been the recipient of Best Exporters Award from the Karnataka Camber of Commerce

cleanliness and courteous service have been its salient features. The facility is extremely popular among traveling public.

Prasannaji has donated generously. He extends his helping hand to the needy. He has been rendering yeoman service selflessly.

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Salgaocar law college to impart free legal aid HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, JULY 20

V M Salgaocar College of Law in association with the North Goa District Legal Services Authority will be conducting 40 legal literacy camps across Goa. The camps will be organized by the 40 legal aid cells of the college. The purpose of these camps is to impart free legal aid to the public. These camps will be coordinated by Dr M Pinheiro and Prof Ranjana Ferrao. The camps are open to advocates and public.

According to Prof Ranjana, the right to free legal aid is one of the fundamental human rights. It is the constant endeavour of the State to provide free legal service to the indigent and the needy; to provide free and competent legal services to the weaker sections of the society and to ensure opportunities for securing justice are not denied to any citizen by reason of economic or other disabilities; to devise alternate dispute resolutions systems suited to socio-economic fabric of the state which is effective in resolving disputes in a spirit of conciliation outside the court, notably, when disputes are resolved in a spirit of conciliation, the fruits are sweeter than sweet, as it respects the tenets of give and take.

In Goa there are many problems like ignorance of law, unemployment, poverty and backwardness. Therefore, providing legal awareness and legal help is very important.

Unless the people are made conscious of their rights and duties, the rule of law may not be effective or desired.

V M Salgaocar College of Law imparts free legal aid to the needy and its members meet every weekend to cater to the needs of the people.

This year, the cell members will conduct the legal literacy camp with the help of advocates from the Taluka Level Legal Services Committee.

The emphasis of these camps will be laid on day to day disputes like labour matters, matrimonial matters, divorce under Family Laws of Goa, Right of Maintenance under S 125 CrPC and Family Laws applicable in Goa, entitlement of free legal aid, rights of citizens involving landed properties, rights of children, your rights as consumers, laws relating to arrest and bail, motor accidents claims. The students will also facilitate the public to redress their grievances like pension, election card and difficulties in obtaining government welfare schemes.

For this, the College has collaborated with other authorities and has also received full cooperation and support from judicial officers, the North Goa District Legal Services Authority, Social Welfare Department, Directorate of Panchayat, the Collector and Mamlatdars. The legal aid movement is gaining strong support with lawyers voluntarily coming forward and rendering service. Judicial officers are also working hard on holding Lok Adalats on weekdays and holidays.

The camps hope to ensure lessening of the piling of the cases from regular courts. It will kindle and affirm the trust and confidence of the indigents and thus try to afford the instrumentality of a system for dawning on the cardinal principle of cheap and swift justice.

Most of all, it will liberate the litigants from hatred, vengeance and cost ensuring future solidarity and tailoring to prove itself as an inescapable need of the day.

On July 24, 25 and 30, legal literacy camps will be conducted by the legal aid cell members at Assonora, Valpoi and Duler respectively. At these camps, the activities of the legal aid cells will be viewed, information will be disseminated. It will also help to realize as to what more remains to be done to achieve the goal.

British warship, submarine to pay goodwill visit to State HERALD REPORTER VASCO, JULY 20

A British warship and a submarine will visit the State’s coast on a five-day goodwill visit to the Indian Navy.

Navy PRO Commander M C Joshi confirmed that a British ship and submarine would visit Goa on Wednesday, but did not disclose the name and class of ships and submarines.

“It is just a goodwill visit in the State for five days, while on the fifth day there would be small-scale exercise with the naval submarine,” said Joshi.

He also confirmed that a French anti-aircraft warship had recently visited the State and was engaged in an exercise with an Indian warship in the Arabian Sea. The French Destroyer, FNS Jean Bart, was engaged in an

exercise with INS Ganga, as part of regular and sustained Indo-French Naval interaction, a Navy press release added.

INS Ganga, a guided missile frigate, had naval warfare manoeuvres such as defence against fast attack craft, air defence exercise, surface firing and cross embarkation of personnel with the French ship.

“FNS Jean Bart is a conventional warship and is capable of doing speeds up to 30 nautical miles. The Destroyer was built in Lorient Naval Dockyard in France and was commissioned in 1991,” the release said.

“The port visit and exercises will help in maintaining interoperability between the two navies, which have been conducting the Varuna series of bilateral naval exercises annually,” the release added.

Hindi teaching scheme results declared HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, JULY 20

The results of various examinations under Hindi Teaching Scheme have been announced and all the 84 candidates, representing various departments in Goa, have been declared successful.

Pradesh R Shet (Department of Posts), Neena K I (Indian Overseas Bank) and R Mahalingam (Power Grid Corporation of India) are the candidates securing first three positions at Prabodh examination. Bhikaji A Mede and Anil M Borate (both from Power Grid Corporation of India) secured first and second position while the third was shared by Amrut

B Kamble (Hindustan Petroleum) and Suryakant Kadam (Power Grid Corporation of India) at the Praveen examination.

At the Pragya examination, Manish H Tadavi (India Tourism) secured first while second position is shared by M Vasant Rao (Hindustan Petroleum) and Sandeep P Hirve (Doordarshan Kendra) and third position went to Pratibha Pasi (Doordarshan Kendra) at Pragya examination.

Sunita Kaul, Prachi N Mandrekar and Prajakta S Lovalekar (all from State Bank of India) secured the first, second and third positions at the Banking Pragya examination.

Banks urged to make customers feel at home HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, JUNE 20

Sahitya Academy Award winner and Konkani writer Devidas Kadam has stated that banks should create a home like atmosphere in their business establishments by having a close rapport with their customers.

Kadam was addressing a function at a customers meet organized by the Chaudi branch of Canara Bank at Canacona.

Kadam lauded the bank’s staff at Chaudi for meeting this criterion and said customers,

including himself, are happy to visit this branch.

Another guest, state awardwinning teacher Mahendra Faldessai and other customers also spoke on the occasion.

Branch Manager S S Mahale, while responding to queries and suggestions, agreed to strive even harder to the satisfaction of customers by providing quality services at all times.

Earlier, bank staffer, Madhukar S Badole, welcomed the customers attending the meet.

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O HERALD O

The rise of neo-liberal journalism

Vol No CX No: 187 Goa, Wednesday 21 July, 2010

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Death by committee

nion Minister for Road Transport and Highways Kamal Nath recently slammed the Planning Commission, saying that he wanted to build 20km of highway a day but failed, as India’s apex planning body applied the brakes. Compare that with Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat, who evidently set out to constitute a committee every day of his term, and more than succeeded!

Of course, 20 km of highway is a great deal more useful than a committee, and the opening day of the monsoon session of the Goa Legislative Assembly saw the CM admitting that too many committees had been constituted by his government. More than half of them have not held a single meeting since their inception, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat confessed.

We come across such gems, usually, during assembly sessions.

Mapusa BJP MLA Francis D’Souza asked the question, and must have been amazed at the answer. We now have a unique ‘kabrastan’ for inconvenient issues in this state. Simply form a committee to deal with the issue and it gets buried forever!

It was Leader of the Opposition Manohar Parrikar who brought it to the CM’s notice that a total of 1,423 committees had been constituted by the government for various purposes since July 2007. That’s enough committees for nearly four years. Of them, he pointed out, 774 committees – over half – had never met during from the day they were set up; only 129 met regularly.

Funnily enough, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat was quite unaware that he himself headed 25 committees; and had to be told this by Mr Parrikar, who also revealed that there was a one-person Health Committee with Health Minister Vishwajeet Rane as its only member. This is surely one more dubious first for Goa. The Chief Minister agreed with Mr Parrikar that the functioning of these committees must be monitored. But surely he cannot appoint another committee for this task...! The more sensible measure is Speaker Pratapsingh Rane’s suggestion, that the government fix a time-frame for each committee.

That may not get them to meet, but whether they do or they don’t, they will automatically cease to exist the day their term expires.

The problem is that even when committees do meet conscientiously, complete their work and submit reports, they gather dust. Take the monitoring committee constituted by the state government in October 2008 to look into alleged illegal mining.

It was formed after the government came under heavy fire from the Opposition on the floor of the assembly. Mr Parrikar cited irrefutable evidence of ore exported being far in excess of ore on which royalty had been paid to the government.

But the recommendations made by the committee after it visited around 50 mines have been completely ignored. Illegal mining is going on unhindered, while the report has been laid to rest in peace. That’s death by committee for you.

S

Terrorists

hortly after the Bombay High Court restored the tough Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) charges against Sadhvi Pragya Thakur, Lt Col S P Purohit and nine others in the Malegaon, Parbhani and Jalna bomb blasts, the Goa government – in the shape of Home Minister Ravi Naik – officially referred to the four Sanatan Sanstha (SS) members accused of carrying out the 2009 Diwali-eve blast in Goa as ‘terrorists’ for the first time. The all-important term was in a written reply to the Goa Legislative Assembly yesterday.

Those who plant bombs to kill and injure ordinary people are terrorists. Terror has no scruples and no values. It is based purely on hate. Terrorists must be put down with a firm hand, regardless of their religion. But it is even more important to disband the organisations that encourage and sponsor them.

Newspapers in india are increasingly lacking in a national perspective, states FReDeRicK NoRoNHa

L

ast week, I spent two days huddled in a fivestar hotel in New Delhi - not something I usually enjoy doing - because of a connection to a German journalism training institution that goes back two decades. Among the speakers and participants at the conference were the editor (known for his many start-ups) M.J. Akbar, Rajya Sabha member of Parliament and journalist H.K. Dua, IANS news service editor-in-chief Tarun Basu and others.

The first thing that strikes you is the headstart big cities like New Delhi have when in the media, in today’s India. With the political power being concentrated in the national capital, and the financial clout in cities like Mumbai, an arrogance of sorts perhaps does creep in with journalism too there.

Media-persons present, most of whom underwent training in West Berlin in their younger days, had a mix of nostalgia and regret, as they surveyed the fast changing scenario that Indian media in more recent times.

On the one hand, the Indian media is doing well. It has grown, and become far more mature.

Rather than being a recipient for training initiatives, there are probably quite a few here who could train other parts of the developing world and beyond to make sense of the techniques and norms and principles, the axioms and assumptions of journalism.

Unlike in the Western world, newspapers are not collapsing in India. Far from it. They’re growing, and expanding quite fast. That reality is there for all to see. Even tiny Goa has seen newspapers grow in number - whether quality has also come is debatable - in recent times.

Is this growth sustainable? Is it on a sound footing? Newspapers in India are increasingly lacking in a national perspective. A participant from Manipur, Chitra Ahanthem, was bitter with the way the “national” media in India - including television - treated her much-alienated part of the country. For that matter, how effective are local papers in covering the whole of Goa, for instance?

Not just that, almost every other region in the “periphery” tends to get stereotyped when it comes to gaining coverage in the “national” media. Take the case of Goa. Over the years, we have been portrayed as a mining mecca, tourism hotspot, land of instable governments and dubious politicians, home of sex crimes (if not being the

I

PFI: True patriots Shaikh Zemir, Margao

I read with interest Sandesh Prabhudesai’s article ‘The Margao-Salcete disconnect’ (Herald, 19 July). Given its high intellectual content, I find it necessary to provide a brief translation for the benefit of the common man: “Digambar Kamat messed up big-time by telling you Catholics off. Please forgive him and please vote for him again. Know that I am a secular guy since I, Sandesh Prabhudesai, have cited names of distinguished Catholics in my article. As Digambar’s bellhop, I guarantee you that there will not be a repeat display of his insolence, and I beg of you to vote for him and his party.

On behalf of Datta, Shridhar and Digambar, “I wish you all a Merry Christmas in July itself. That’s how much I love you Catholics.”

Recently, we have seen negative news about the Popular Front of India (PFI). It started with the cutting of the hand of a professor in Kerala, who was writing a blasphemous article on Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). PFI lodged a complaint against the professor.

The Church apologised, but the professor didn’t. The fascist forces took advantage of the situation and cut the hand of the professor. They created a big news about it, to defame Popular Front of India.

Where was the media when PFI was working in the Andhra floods to save lives; when it was building thousands of houses in Assam for the homeless; when lakhs of poor people in Bengal were provided shelter and food?

Where was it when the Empowerment India Conference was held in Bangalore; when the National Political Conference was held in Calicut?

The Popular Front of India has true patriots working tirelessly for the uplift of the downtrodden and backward sections of society.

21 July 1910 Killers Hanged

At the Thane Jail, the killers of Jackson, the Collector of Nasik were hanged.

Devastating Fire

A devastating fire caused great damages in Mandalaya with one locality turning to ashes.

Bridge Construction

The Tabloid “Conviccao” states that even this year, the works of construction of the bridge over the River Baga will not to be completed as some iron fittings has to be brought from Bombay.

Delegates Appointed

A meeting of Salt-Pan owners to appoint delegates to represent them at the future meetings to be held at Bombay between the Purchasers, was held at the Hall of the District Administration of llhas.

Gold and rust M Johnson, Colva/UK James Moraes (‘Golden Goa’, Herald, 15 July) should not blame foreign tourists for all the problems faced by Goa. We do not litter and pollute Goa; we are taught not to litter and take our rubbish home. About corruption, Goan and Indian voters have brought that upon themselves. We do not commit murders. Slums and migrants are the problems of politicians, not foreign tourists. Finally, drugs have been easily available in Goa right from the ’60s, and the problem is for your police to sort out.

Many Goan landlords depend on tourism for their living. A lot of money comes from Goans living and working in the tourism industry in other countries. Mr Moraes, please do not tar us all with the same brush.

Not false, but true Stephen Dias, Dona Paula In one of the recent Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meetings, I was told that migrants are manipulating to get their tuition fees

Secondly, unlike the frugal times of the past, the media nowadays is willing to spend money lavishly. While employees indeed need to be paid and need to eat, does the wasting of money add anything by way of quality?

Allwyn Fernandes, one of the youngest and long-serving chief reporters of the Times of India (Bombay), put it aptly. He said job-satisfaction in the media is inversely proportionate to the salaries one earns!

Young media-persons are entering the field, and are, perhaps rightly, fed up with sermons from old-timers about how things used to be then. But the fact remains that many youngsters enter with quite different motivations from those who came in an earlier generation.

The size of the car, the pay-pay-packet, these are issues which impress today. But together with higher payments often comes less enjoyable working conditions.

Market-driven economics have entered the world of economics too. No longer do people see themselves as having a crucial role to play in society, the job of telling the truth, and of taking the side of the underdog in a markedly unequal society.

What happens when policies enter the news domain and use the language of markets, efficiency, consumer choice, and individual autonomy to shift risk from governments and corporations onto individuals?

As newspaper prices have remained artificially

the Mini-stir shorts-circuit

stepped out of my sun-lounge. My parrot, Cocky, screamed.

“What the devil’s wrong?” I swore, as she shaded her eyes.

“Puh-leez!” she screeched, “Off with those ghastly shorts, I’m calling the Fashion Police! Goencars can’t wear shorts!”

“Excusez-moi,” I smiled, “I’m off to the Hamptons short-ly.”

It’s been a sweltering NY summer. Only shorts and sandals.

“The world,” I laughed, “has changed. Goencars now travel far and wide. We’ve imbibed all manner of dress.”

“No, no!” she cried, “Not our culture at all. We’ve neither the figure nor colour to carry off the bermudas!”

“Speak for yourself,” I snapped. “I have a perfectly svelte, welltrimmed figure, and my tan is so... glam.”

“Aaaargh,” she spat, “You look like a Paki in khaki!”

“Verrry funny!” I said, “How shorts-sighted can you get?”

“Not punny,” she bit me, “Have you seen how immodestly Goencars dress to church nowadays, even in Goa?” “They,” I chuckled, “make church-going pretty attractive. Are

Rajan Parrikar, Miramar

PRIMEIRO DIARIO NAS COLONIAS PORTUGEZAS

“rape capital”, to use a much vaunted Mickky Pacheco term) and gangster politicians.

Like any stereotype, this too is based on an element of truth. But a grossly distorted and selective portrayal of the reality!

Chhattisgarh is the land of Maoists - issues of the people will only be reported when someone takes to the gun and a massacre ensures. Orissa and Karnataka will be reported when there’s some communal conflagration. Kerala hardly gets noticed.

“Leave aside the smaller States, we have to fight to get space in the media even for Mumbai,” as a colleague once put it. Krishna Prasad, editor of Outlook magazine, stressed the need for changing the “top-down, Delhi-centric” media model.

India is self-laudatory about the fact that its press is growing (along with literacy). That its population bomb has turned into a demographic dividend (aren’t we good at churning out catchphrases that suit our interest?) with more younger people leading, and that we don’t have to worry about collapsing newspapers here.

Yet, how long will this sustain? To my mind, newspapers are losing their credibility and hardwon reputations by dumbing down, by carrying advertising as news, and by caring very little for the reader. Unless the whole of India gets adequately covered by the “national” media, and is treated with the respect deserved, why should the reader bother with the newspaper?

Goan Abroad!

Reader disconnect

100 Years Ago

Devil’s aDvocate

depressed — India has among the cheapest newspapers in the world - the advertiser is bound to get a bigger clout, while the reader matters less and less.

Technology-wise, things have changed a lot.

Those of us who joined at the fag-end of the hotmetal generation (early 1980s), were shocked when we saw the first computer in operation in the compositing-room (in the Herald, incidentally).

But has technology meant better coverage, and more participation in the media?

Competition can be a good thing. But what happens every TV channel tries to look much like each other, anchors think that they are the story, and even newspapers start copying TV priorities?

“Indian newspapers are driven by television.

Viveka Babaji(the model who committed suicide) dominates TV, and that in turn dominates the next day’s newspapers,” pointed out Ashok Row Kavi, remembered in Goa probably for his writing on the skulduggery of the Konkani-Marathi conflict of the 1980s.

We make certain assumptions about things, and then take these to be the gospel truth. We believe that newspapers want only 350-word long news reports and frothy features; yet the Guardian and Robert Fisk can pen beautifully-crafted 5000 word articles. If newspapers are growing in India, how come there is a declining willingness to invest in the news-gathering process?

A new orthodoxy is taking root in the media.

If you believe in anything other than yourself, you will be quickly dubbed an “activist”. Environmentalism needs more coverage, as Keya Acharya of Bangalore pointed out. Covering the environment is portrayed as “anti-development”, as a journalist from Kerala noted.

Even while journalists who believe in writing on issues that matter get dubbed as “activists”, others who swim with the current tide don’t mind being activists for themselves, particular politicians of the day (whether ruling or Opposition) or the corporate world.

As Mathrubhumi deputy editor N.P.Rajendra from Kerala asked sarcastically, “Do you need credibility to sell a newspaper?” More seriously, I think there is a serious sense of loss over the fact that a once-respected profession is bartering fast money and the goodies of life for its most important asset, a reputation that takes decades to create but minutes to destroy.

you against the halters... or the shorts?”

“Yuck!” she cried, “Even the tourists ogle us and take pics!”

“Cool,” I laughed, “Previously, it was the other way round. All those cameras clicking our curves... great snap-shorts!”

“Excuse-me,” she said acidly, “who’s shorts-sighted now?”

“And all the hot ones come late,” I said, “so I do too! I mean, we all enjoy the lust in church... oops, I meant... last!”

“Even in places of pilgrimage like Pilar and Old Goa, I see these fat aunties, bursting out of bulging bermudas…”

“Ha,” I choked, “You’ve been to Pilar and Old Goa? Fan me!”

“What’s even worse are those flimsy white shorts – wearing a polka-dot bikini underneath is sheer indecency.”

“Well, at least they highlight lots of good spots,” I punned.

“No, it’s painful,” she sighed, “They need to wear a thong!”

“Then slow queues may turn into ‘walk-a-thongs’,” I cackled.

“Can’t they quicken our pulses by wearing Speedos? I could stand by to clock the hot ones with my... Speedo-meter!”

By Francis Rodrigues

“Worse is that mobile babble in their fake accents – how dare they desecrate holy places using cells so lightly?”

“Maybe it’s the cellulite!” I guffawed in glee. Cocky glared.

“Why,” she cried, “Didn’t you get a dog, instead of a parrot?”

“Makes sense,” I agreed. “In this hot weather, every time he went ‘pant, pant…’ there, I’d get a pair of pants. Ha ha, just like Tiger Woods. Last week I hear he wore two pairs at the British Open, just in case he got... a hole-in-one!”

“Aha,” she perked up. “Bet you didn’t know how the fancy axeminister shorts-circuited his way into the Cabinet.”

“Was it the bandanna?” I asked, “Did he wear hot shorts?”

“A real mini-pair,” she cackled, “He wore them after winning the last election. Folks rioted, so the Cabinet gave in to...”

“The... Mini-stir!” Cocky screeched in glee.

The popat always knows.

[If you just arrived: Langoti ‘Long’ John Silva is a globe-trotting Goencar, always accompanied by his wise-cracking parrot Cocky]

Letters to the Editor Letter of the Day

Enough is enough!

Sunita F J, Goa Velha

It has been a month now that the front page news of almost every newspaper has to do with either Mickky Pacheco or Naida. Has the media nothing else to report? There are suicides almost every day; why aren’t these given importance?

If some people want to settle personal scores with Mickky Pacheco, by all means let them do so, but not at the cost of Nadia’s family. Is Nadia’s family a threat to society that her mother has to be behind bars?

My heart bled when I read about Nadia’s brother, a gold medalist MBA student, being admitted to IPHB. Her mother has a reputation as a conscientious teacher. Is there no one who can put an end to this family’s unending misery?

What is the moral duty of the media towards society? Is it to misuse freedom and sensationalise issues to the point that it inflames the immature minds of some socalled social activists?

Some of our newspapers have turned into cheap tabloids, splashing lurid stories not meant for family reading. See for instance the headlines of a newspaper on 17 July: “Mother’s Day in”. Isn’t this a mockery of the Freedom of the Press? paid by their respective MLAs. For ordinary Goan families, fees of about Rs2,000 per month is beyond their capacity.

This is one of the tricks played by politicians in Goa to gain votes. If this trend continues, one day we will have migrants as candidates for elections.

Can our CM and Education Minister listen to the grievances of ‘aam admi’ Goans who cannot afford these high fees and ensure that the fee structure is affordable to them?

Absentee minister S N D Poojary, Miramar Railway accidents are now regular. Passengers are killed or maimed, and railway property worth crores is destroyed. Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee visits the accident site, moots a conspiracy hypothesis, and rushes back to West Bengal to resume her obsession of unseating the CPI(M) government.

She does not attend most cabinet meetings, and is an absentee landlord in the Railway Ministry. We taxpayers pay her salary and perks for non-performance and negligence.

She and some other ministers are ‘holy cows’. They cannot be removed because of a bizarre political philosophy called ‘Coali-

tion Dharma’. Dharma means righteousness.

What is right in tolerating ministers like this?

Service or business?

Barretto Roger, Verna In some private unaided schools in Margao, the school management is actually running a family business in the name of social institution!

That is the reason for not including outsiders in the committee; the full family is the school management, so that they can distribute the profits among themselves.

Even after the Education Department warned private unaided schools not to do any profiteering, these illegal things are still on the rise. Let them be warned that we will not tolerate family businesses in the name of educational institutions.

Safety first Tony Correia-Afonso, Benaulim Within months of the Mangalore air crash, we have had a couple of rail accidents within months, involving a loss of over 200 lives.

Every other day, bus and car accidents are reported, involving still further loss of lives.

We are not safe even if we choose to

walk in order to avoid an accident; hundreds of pedestrians are killed every year in road accidents. Even if we to stay at home, we are not safe; break-ins, burglaries and dacoities are on the rise. Isn’t it time that the government gave mega development projects a rest and, instead, ensured the citizens’ safety?

Why no ACDs? Robert Castellino, Calangute Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee must take full moral responsibility for the recent spate of railway accidents. These accidents could have been prevented if the railways had installed anti-collision devices (ACDs) patented by the Konkan Railway.

They take inputs from GPS satellite systems and locate other ACDs within a range of 1.5 kms. This alerts drivers to reduce speed, to prevent accidents. If two trains are on the same track, the ACD automatically stops the train.

The Railway Minister must explain why ACDs have not been fitted on all trains

Total degradation Lucas D’Souza, Offshore Qatar/Verna Kudos to Union Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh for his remarks on the destruction of Goa’s environment and greenery. I only hope it drills some sense into our corrupt politicians. He is a minister from distant Delhi; why can’t our own ministers see the wanton destruction of Goa before their eyes?

Not a single day passes without people being forced to come onto the streets to protest. The latest example is Panchawadi, where people who went to protest against the destruction of mangroves were mercilessly beaten by goons hired by the mining company. Have we come to a stage where people have to come out onto the streets for every issue?

Letters should be 150 words or less in length, and should have the writer’s name, address and telephone number. The editor reserves the right to edit letters for size and readability, and to delete any personal attacks or libellous /objectionable matter.

Paths of Wisdom Destiny During a momentous battle, a Japanese general decided to attack even though his army was greatly outnumbered. He was confident they would win, but his men were filled with doubt.

On the way to battle, they stopped at a religious shrine. After praying with the men, the general took out a coin and said, “I shall now toss this coin. If it is heads, we shall win. If tails, we shall lose. Destiny will now reveal itself.”

He threw the coin into the air and all watched intently as it landed. It was heads! The soldiers were so overjoyed and filled with confidence that they vigorously attacked the enemy and were victorious.

After the battle, a lieutenant remarked to the general, “No one can change destiny.”

“Quite right,” the general replied as he showed the lieutenant the coin, which had heads on both sides.

Quotes :

Everything is determined, the beginning as well as the end, by forces over which we have no control. It is determined for the insect, as well as for the star. Human beings, vegetables, or cosmic dust, we all dance to a mysterious tune, intoned in the distance by an invisible piper.

(Albert Einstein) Problems are man-made, therefore they may be solved by man. No problem of human destiny is beyond human beings.

(John F. Kennedy) It is a mistake to look too far ahead.

Only one link of the chain of destiny can be handled at a time.

(Winston Churchill)

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HOW TO CONTACT US: mail@herald-goa.com — For press notes, general queries. junioryouth@herald-goa.com — Junior Herald & Careers. heraldmirror@herald-goa.com — Sunday Mirror. reporters@herald-goa.com — For Reporters. business@herald-goa.com — For Business news. editor@herald-goa.com — For Letters to the Editor. sports@herald-goa.com — For Sports news. advt@herald-goa.com — For Advertisements. 2day@herald-goa.com — For Herald 2day. tiatr@herald-goa.com — For Tiatr Reviews and Reports. Disclaimer: Except for the editorial above, articles and letters in Herald represent the views of the concerned authors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Herald editor, publisher, and/or owners.

OHERALDO

Pg9

GOA, WEDNESDAY, 21 JULY, 2010

28 troupes from Goa to perform at 1st world Konkani cultural convention HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, JULY 20

Twenty-eight individuals/groups from Goa would perform at the first World Konkani Cultural Convention to be held in Mangalore and all of them were honoured by extending Vovllik (invitation). The Chief Minister Digambar Kamat also accepted the traditional Vovllik of Mand Sobhann on behalf of Goans.

Appreciating efforts of Mandd Sobhann, which is organizing the first World Konkani Cultural Convention, Kamat said that the State government will fully support this event to make it big success, which is very important to take Konkani to greater heights.

He was speaking on the occasion of ‘Vovllik’ (curtain raiser) programme held at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao. “The convention will help in future as it will send the message of Konkani worldwide and it is also the government’s responsibility to spread the awareness of Konkani,” he added and appreciated the work of Kalaangann and

Mandd Sobhann, Mangalore to promote Konkani language.

Member of parliament Francisco Sardinha, BJP MLA Damodar Naik and former minister Luizinho Faleiro were present as the guests of honor. Mandd Sobhann president Louie J Pinto and gurkar Eric Ozario were also present.

Addressing the gathering, Damodar Naik said that we are entering the 50th year of Goa and its now time to analyse where the Konkani movement is reaching. “Such a convention is really good to gather Konkani people living across the world,” he added.

MP Francisco Sardinha said that to preserve Konkani culture, the awareness on language should be passed on to the new generation. He hoped that the convention will integrate all Konkani lovers together and also help create love about folk music among younger generation hooked to western music, he said and appealed to all Goans and Konkani lovers to support this event and support Konkani by contributing through their art and various

other means.

Former minister Luizinho Faleiro termed Mangalore city as ‘Temple of Konkani’. “If there is any temple of Konkani language in the world then it is in Mangalore. Mangaloreans are really doing a very good work to resurrect the Konkani culture and propel the language,” he opined.

Mandd Sobhann gurkar Eric Ozario highlighted the importance of the convention and said Konkani is a rich language and its preservation should be of top priority.

Mother Teresa Brass Band from Honnavar welcomed the guests through their unique style of music. Kharvi Kala Mandd, Bhatkal presented the gumttam nach and tonnyam nach, ‘Naach Sobhann’ troupe performed various dances for Konkani songs. Eric Ozario enthralled the audience by singing the Konkani song ‘voda ponda’.

Noted Tiatrist Tomazinho Cardozo proposed the vote of thanks. Former Miss Daijiworld Melita Pinto from Mangalore and Navanath Khandeparkar from Goa compered the programme.

‘Valpoi women will be empowered through self-employment’ HERALD CORRESPONDENT VALPOI, JULY 20

Valpoi Municipal Council (VMC) Deputy Chairperson Umesh Gulekar has stated that there is a revolution of empowering womenfolk in Valpoi by implementing self-employed programmes.

Gulelkar was speaking at the inaugural function of flowermaking classes, a programme initiated by Goa Handicrafts

Rural and Small Scale Industry Development Corporation in Ward No 8 at Valpoi.

The programme was inaugurated by VMC Chairperson Gulzar Bi Khan. The 20-day programme includes a short term course of artistic flower making, which will be conducted by instructor Sayyed Farzana.

Speaking further, Gulelkar said such short courses are meant

for women to enrich their interest in such activity. “Use this door-step golden opportunity and be self employed,” he added.

Pooja Dangui, Co-ordinator appointed by the GHRSSIDC, addressing the students said: “Exhibit your talent and we will provide market for your work.

We are here to upgrade your talent, but you have to show keen interest in it.”

She informed that flowermaking is short term course designed to developed rural women.

Ashwini Karpalkar, who is handling such short term programme in Satatri, also spoke on the occasion. “Interest in the course and regular learning will bear fruit within 20days which will be displayed through exhibitions,” she said.

‘Youth should be made aware of AIDS’

Colva Lions launches activities with home gardening

HERALD CORRESPONDENT MAYEM, JULY 20

Dr Pradeep Padwal has stressed the need for creating awareness among the youth about the evil effects of AIDS. He was addressing the people during the blood donation camp, which was jointly organized by Nehru Yuva Kendra, Sarvan Library, Sarvan Friends Circle and AIDS Control Society at Sarvan Library, Sarvan-Bicholim, on Sunday.

Dr Padwal also said that detection of two AIDS patients per day in the state like Goa is a thing to worry and advised the youth to adopt thoughts of moral values.

NYK Convenor Kalidas Ghatwal, Sarvan Sarpanch Santosh Talkar, ZP member Fondu Sawant, Dr Krupa Jog, Umakant Sawant, Sunil sawant, Dattaram Sawant, Kishore Karbotkar and Sunil Pilgaonkar were present on the occasion.

NYK Convenor Ghatwal, Santosh Talker and Fondu Sawant also spoke on the occasion.

Santosh Sawant compered the function and proposed the vote of thanks.

Alexander Fernandes lighting the lamp alongwith Neville Afonso, Santaninho Braganza and Manuel de Costa to mark the launching of Lions Club of Colva project on home gardening at Colva on Sunday.

HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, JULY 20

The Lions Club of Colva launched the year’s programme with a novel project on home gardening followed by distribution of different saplings at the club hall, Colva on Sunday.

“Home gardening is everyone’s hobby and we should spend a lot of time on such activities to overcome global warming and maintain our ecology,” remarked Alexander M Fernandes, president of the club at the inaugural session. “Home gardening, when planned well and looked after regularly, also enhances the beauty of the place,” Alexander pointed out.

Neville Afonso, assistant director of Agriculture Department and manager of Goa State Horticultural Corporation (Farms), through an impressive power point presentation brought out various aspects of gardening, including home gardening, creative pots, management of plants, vegetable and fruit gardening.

Issues like site and soil evaluation, basic understanding on how plants grow, plant types, how to use water wisely, plant maintenance, sun and shade considerations were highlighted.

The large audience, consisting mainly of women, evinced keen interest in the topic through the

interactive session in which doubts, misconceptions were cleared. Later, saplings were distributed.

Santaninho Braganza, secretary, disclosed that the club would be focussing on education, youth welfare and health in this lionistic year. “There will also be other humanitarian projects that will be taken up during the lionistic year, with emphasis on senior citizens of Colva,” he stated.

The traditional lamp was lit

by Alexander, Santaninho, Neville and Manuel de Costa to mark the launching of the activities of the club for the year.

Santaninho Braganza proposed the vote of thanks.

HE RA LD GOA, WEDNESDAY, 21 JULY, 2010

Pg10 Pak army foils suicide attack; kills 3 attackers PTI ISLAMABAD, JULY 20

Three suicide attackers tried to storm an army base in northwest Pakistan today but security guards foiled their attempt and shot them dead, police said.

The attackers, wearing suicide jackets and carrying arms, tried to enter the army base in Mardan city, 60 km northeast of Peshawar, the capital of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, said Deputy Inspector General of Police Akhtar Ali Shah.

Three soldiers injured in the attack were taken to a military hospital in Mardan, he said, adding that they were in a stable condition.

Guards at the gate of the army base spotted the attackers and opened fire on them. Their suicide jackets exploded as a result of the firing, Shah said.

No group claimed responsibility for the attack.

FROM PAGE 1 Opposition on a high

statement, Parrikar went on to state that he had seen Israeli drug dealer Atala with a politician’s son.

However, Parrikar neither named the politician nor did he have the photo to substantiate his claim.

He said the whole world was watching and by not acceding to the demand for inquiry the Government had shown it was guilty.

Forget the police-drug mafia-politician nexus, at least go into the police-drug mafia nexus. The investigation cannot be done by the local police (Crime Branch) as per the directives of the Supreme Court, he said.

Sanatan men...

Government, collecting arms and mischief.

Charges have also been ordered to be framed under various Sections of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Explosive Substances Act. Malgonda Patil and Yogesh Naik, the two Sanatan members who were ferrying detonator-rigged gelatin sticks to a crowded place on Diwali eve, died when the explosive contraption they were carrying exploded accidentally.

Luckily, another improvised explosive device placed in a pick up van near Verna did not explode.

Student run over by train

had to build a footbridge at the level crossing “Everyday, around 1000-1500 students cross the tracks to make it to the educational institutions. We have been demanding a footbridge, but the Government built a subway. We don’t know the benefit of the subway to the students”, he said, adding the deceased student was dragged by the speeding train after her school bag got entangled with the hook of the train.

Higher Secondary School Principal Ballikar said it is a tragedy that the incident took away the life of a good and studious student.

“Roshni was a very good and well behaved student”, he added.

Ballikar said authorities should immediately look into the needs of a footbridge, besides speed breakers in the interest of students safety. “Roshni might have thought that she would clear the tracks before the train could cross the level crossing. She was dragged by the railway hook”, he said, adding “one reason for the tragedy was the subway which was submerged under water, forcing the vehicle driver to drop the students near the level crossing”.

A local resident Roque Rodrigues said the Government has built the subway without any proper study since the location is a lowlying area prone to flooding during monsoons. He said neither the Government nor the educational institutions are concerned about the safety of students studying in these schools and colleges.

“Even the level crossing is not barricaded by authorities, prompting students to cross the tracks even when it is closed for traffic”, he said.

Incidentally, it was only after the tragic accident that the authorities moved in to erect barricades at the approach point on both sides of the subway.

Dudu may move SC conditional permission for an immediate treatment with a private dentist. “It has been made clear by the investigating officer… that it would take some time for the applicant to get dental treatment at GDC thus considering the dental problem suffered by the applicant and considering the time that would be consumed at GDC to treat the applicant… interest of justice would be served by allowing the applicant to take treatment by a private dentist of his choice”, was the final order accompanying the above said conditions.

It is reliably learnt that the drug dealer has selected Dr Sanjeev Vaz, a Calangute-based dentist to treat the decayed tooth.

Just a day before, Dudu’s easy access to Facebook social networking website raised eyebrows on the fragile working of the ‘Prisons’ authorities.

HE RA LD GOA, WEDNESDAY, 21 JULY, 2010

Pg11

Karzai seeks help to move towards self-governance PTI KABUL, JULY 20

An International Conference opened here today with Afghan President Hamid Karzai seeking help to move towards self-governance as the meeting backed his efforts to involve elements in Taliban but said any amnesty should only be extended to those who had no links to global terrorist groups like al-Qaeda, a stance supported by India.

The biggest ever conference on Afghanistan bringing delegates from 70 nations to chalk out the future of the war-torn country began amidst a total lock-down of the Afghan capital and is considering a plan to hand over security in the countr y ’s 34 provinces to the Afghan government by 2014.

Flanked by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Karzai sporting a peaked fur hat said Afghanistan and its international allies shared a “vicious common enemy” and triumph over these enemies would come by handing over responsibilities to Afghans to combat the insurgency within the country’s border.

Backing the move to hand over responsibility to the elected Afghan government, Clinton said that the US planned to accelerate the process of handing over security to Afghan military and police.

Acknowledging the deepening opposition to international involvement in the conflict, Clinton said, “the July 2011 date captures both our sense of ur-

gency and strength of our resolve.”

“The transition process is too important to push off indefinitely.

But this date is the start of the new process and not the end of our involvement,” she said.

Speaking at the conference External Affairs Minister S M Krishna said,”the international community must learn lessons from past experiences at negotiating with fundamentalists and extremist organisations and ensure that any peace process is conducted in and inclusive and transparent manner.”

“India supports Afghanistan’s efforts towards peace and reintegration. But for such an effort to succeed, it must be fully Afghan-led and carry all sections of country’s population together as well as abide by the red lines agreed at the London conference like giving up violence, cutting of all links with terrorism whether jihadi or state-sponsored - and accepting the democratic and pluralistic value of the Afghan constitution, including women’s rights,” he said.

A draft communique up for adoption by the conference and seen by PTI says “The Afghan government’s Peace and Reintegration Programme is open to all Afghan members of the armed opposition and their communities, who renounce violence, have no link to international terrorist organisations, respect the constitution and are willing to join in building a peaceful Afghanistan.”

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BIZ Pg12 GOA, WEDNESDAY, 21 JULY, 2010

Sesa sees Q2 profit decline PTI NEW DELHI, JULY 20

Vedanta Group firm Sesa Goa today said its profit may fall in the second quarter due to slowing economic activity in China and prevalent monsoon.

"Historically in the second quarter, our profit has declined due to the monsoon.

Now, Chinese economy is also slowing. On volume, we will be able to deliver to our long- term customers in China.

But we have no control over the fluctuating prices. We are not in China out of choice," Sesa Goa MD P K Mukherjee said. China accounts for over 80% of its total sales.

The company saw its profit growing three-folds in the first quarter of the current fiscal to Rs 13.01 crore over the yearago period on account of increased sales after the acquisition of Goa-based V S Dempo last year for Rs 1,750 crore. The mining firm sold about 5.4 million tonnes of iron ore in the first quarter.

It had a profit of Rs 4.22 crore in the first quarter of the last fiscal. The company said it will try to contain input cost in

the second quarter.

To reduce its dependence on China, the company is actively looking at supplying iron ore to customers in other parts of the world. It is negotiating higher prices for its iron ore supplied to Japanese and South Korean mills.

"We had also recently made a trial-supply to Tata Steel Thailand. Indian steel firms mostly do not use fines to produce steel," he added. On iron ore prices, he said, could hover in the range of USD 100-110 a tonne in the next few months.

The company operates mines in Goa, Karnataka and Orissa. Supplies from Goa will be affected due to the ongoing monsoon in the second quarter, Mukherjee said. The Vedanta Group firm saw its sales increasing to Rs 24.13 crore in the first quarter, as against Rs 10.11 crore in the corresponding period a year ago. Sesa Goa produced about 21 million tonnes of iron ore in the last fiscal and expects the output to grow in the current financial year, as it targets the 50 million tonnes mark in next 2-3 years.

TALK BUSINESS

Sesa Goa Q1 PBDT up 205% PANJIM (HBD) -- Sesa Goa Limited announced its unaudited consolidated results for the first quarter ended June 30, 2010. Consolidated revenues and profit after tax were Rs 2,413.08 crore and Rs 1,304.50 crore respectively for Q1.

During Q1, the company produced and sold 6.4 million tonnes and 5.4 million tonnes of iron ore, an increase of 36% and 15% respectively as compared with the corresponding prior quarter. The increase in production was on account of contribution from Dempo’s operations (which contributed 1.3 million tonnes in production and 1.2 million tonnes in sales). Sales volumes were negatively affected by forest permit related issues in Karnataka and logistics constraints in Orissa.

During the quarter, Government of India raised export duty on iron ore lumps from 10% to 15% while keeping the duty on iron ore fines unchanged at 5%.

During the quarter, Pig iron production was at 70,000 tonnes and sales volumes decreased by 24% to 54,000 tonnes compared with the corresponding prior quarter, due to lower demand from foundries. However, demand has picked up since the end of the quarter and the Company has since booked an export order to reduce inventory in Q2.

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE: Cash Profit (PBDT) for Q1 was Rs 1,606.83 crores, an increase of 205% as compared with the corresponding prior quarter. The positive impact of increased iron ore spot prices in Q1 and the higher sales volumes was partly offset by the increase in export levies, railway freight and royalty rates.

LIQUIDITY AND INVESTMENT: As at 30 June 2010, the company had cash and cash equivalents of Rs. 8,054 crores (excluding inter corporate deposit of Rs 1,000 crores), consisting Rs. 6,495 crores in debt mutual funds and Rs. 1,559 crores in fixed deposits and cash with banks. The company follows a conservative investment policy and invests in high quality debt instruments. All mutual fund investments are based on advice from Crisil.

PIG IRON CAPACITY EXPANSION: Expansion of the pig iron plant capacity to 625 ktpa and the associated expansion of the metallurgical coke plant capacity to 560 ktpa along with a new sinter plant and power plant of 30 MW are progressing well, for scheduled commissioning by Q1 FY2012.

Sensex down 50 pts PTI

MUMBAI, JULY 20

Extending the losses for the second successive day, the BSE benchmark Sensex closed 50 points lower today, with fag-end profit-booking in banking and auto stocks erasing early gains.

The 30-share index closed down by 50.28 points, or 0.28 per cent, at 17,878.14. Analysts said weak cues in European bourses and lower opening of US futures prompted investors to book profits overlooking the positive domestic trends.

Aban Offshor, 843, 857.2, 832.5, 834.6 Abb Ltd., 853, 859.95, 844, 857.95 Abg Shipyard, 262.4, 262.4, 254.45, 255.15 Acc Limited, 816, 818.7, 805, 810 Adani Enterp, 549.7, 550.9, 540.05, 543.8 Aditya Birla, 823, 834, 813.1, 817.7 Allahabad Ba, 176.95, 177.6, 174.5, 175.75 Alstom Proje, 645, 645, 616.85, 629.6 Ambuja Cemen, 107.85, 110.3, 107.55, 107.95 Andhra Bank, 148, 150.8, 146.1, 149.8 Ashok Leylan, 72.8, 73, 70.05, 70.95 Asian Paints, 2475, 2484.1, 2450, 2478.7 Axis Bank Li, 1365.25, 1389, 1358.5, 1368.95 Bajaj Hindus, 119, 119, 113.8, 114.6 Bank Of Baro, 725.1, 742.15, 725.1, 732.7 Bank Of Indi, 395, 403.2, 394, 398.6 Beml Limited, 1025, 1031.9, 1015, 1021.25 Bharat Elect, 1783.65, 1810.95, 1783.65, 1790.8 Bharat Forge, 340, 341.55, 331.8, 333.05 Bharat Petro, 655, 663.7, 636.6, 641.05 Bharti Airte, 299.85, 300.75, 295.5, 297.65 Bhel, 2430, 2437.55, 2401.65, 2413.8 Bhushan Stee, 1525, 1547.5, 1517, 1528.6 Biocon Limit, 318.15, 323, 317.25, 318.15 Bombay Dyein, 525, 525, 498.3, 511.35 Bosch Limite, 5790, 5915, 5760, 5810.85 Brigade Ente, 136.2, 138, 136, 136.25 Cairn India, 317.7, 317.7, 310.25, 311.75 Canara Bank, 500.45, 502, 485.15, 486.5 Central Bank, 150, 155, 149.55, 152.05 Century Text, 460, 468, 447.1, 450.35 Cesc Ltd, 417, 420.85, 407, 407.55 Chambal Fert, 67, 67.25, 65.3, 65.65 Chennai Petr, 258.4, 263, 256.15, 257.35 Cipla Ltd, 329.05, 331.45, 326, 326.6 Colgate Palm, 847.15, 852.7, 840, 840.8 Container Co, 1414.5, 1423, 1392, 1405.1 Crompton Gre, 273, 273.95, 264.05, 265.6 Cummins Indi, 585, 596, 585, 591.15 Dabur India, 209.4, 209.45, 205, 205.4 Deccan Chron, 140.8, 141.95, 134.65, 136.2 Dish Tv Indi, 46.4, 47, 45.4, 45.7 Divi’s Labor, 788.25, 791, 758.25, 766.5 Dlf Limited, 316.5, 323.85, 316.5, 321.45 Dr. reddy’s, 1473, 1473, 1425.1, 1430.65 Edelweiss Ca, 513.5, 531, 509.3, 518.9 Educomp Solu, 614, 624.75, 602.4, 604.65 Eih Limited, 129.75, 134.4, 125.65, 126.85 Engineers In, 355.9, 359.9, 345, 347.45 Essar Oil Lt, 138.6, 139.7, 134, 134.6 Essar Shippi, 86, 86, 82.6, 83.6 Exide Indust, 135.3, 137.8, 132, 132.6 Federal Bank, 358, 364.9, 357, 363.45 Financial Te, 1345, 1350, 1330, 1335.9 Gail (india), 449.8, 451.4, 445.1, 448.45 Gammon India, 229.9, 229.95, 217.5, 218 Glaxosmithkl, 2068, 2068, 2021, 2026.9 Glenmark Pha, 285, 285, 278.15, 281.9 Gmr Infrastr, 61.9, 62.2, 61.15, 61.4 Godrej Indus, 184.05, 189.9, 183.4, 184.4 Grasim Indus, 1830, 1842.8, 1811, 1816.4 Great Offsho, 440, 442.3, 427, 429.5 Gtl Infra.Lt, 46.5, 46.6, 45.6, 45.8 Gujarat Mine, 122.9, 123.3, 121.45, 121.6 Gujarat N R, 64.8, 65, 63.15, 63.4 Gujarat Stat, 105.2, 106.1, 104.2, 104.6 Gvk Pow. & I, 45.35, 47.05, 45.2, 46.75 Hcl Technolo, 380.1, 380.65, 368.2, 371 Hdfc Bank Lt, 2047.85, 2088.7, 2036, 2044.4 Hdfc Ltd, 3073.05, 3087, 3004.05, 3013.6 Hero Honda M, 1960.25, 1974.8, 1940.1, 1944.85 Hindalco in, 153, 155.4, 152.1, 152.8 Hindustan Co, 129, 134, 127.1, 133.35 Hindustan Ma, 76.65, 76.65, 73.35, 73.95

Hindustan Pe, 450, 453.9, 433.7, 436.8 Hindustan Un, 264.6, 265, 261, 262.65 Hindustan Zi, 985, 988.75, 976, 979.9 Housing Dev, 266.5, 270.5, 265, 267.55 Icici Bank L, 900.05, 906.1, 883, 886.85 Idea Cellula, 65.95, 66.6, 65.2, 65.45 Ifci Ltd, 60.5, 61.2, 59.4, 59.9 India Cement, 110.95, 110.95, 107.15, 107.75 India Infoli, 100, 100.55, 98.55, 99 Indiabulls F, 159.2, 161.8, 156.8, 157.4 Indiabulls R, 167, 170.5, 165.25, 166.9 Indian Bank, 245.5, 245.5, 240.65, 241.4 Indian Hotel, 105.25, 106.05, 104, 104.3 Indian Oil C, 377.1, 379.4, 370.2, 371.3 Indian Overs, 116, 116.9, 114.6, 115.75 Indus Dev Ba, 123.1, 124.3, 120.8, 121.75 Indusind Ban, 210.7, 212.5, 207.5, 208.35 Infosys Tech, 2770.45, 2782.5, 2753.5, 2759.65 Infra. dev., 193.5, 193.5, 188.55, 189.45 Ispat Indust, 18.4, 18.5, 17.9, 17.95 Itc Ltd, 292, 293.4, 290.1, 291.45 Ivrcl Infras, 191.15, 192.7, 186.6, 187.55 Jai Corp Lim, 250.5, 253.4, 245.55, 246.7 Jaiprakash A, 129.55, 130.6, 126.65, 127 Jet Airways, 622, 628.9, 611.05, 615.65 Jindal Saw L, 203, 203.8, 200.05, 200.8 Jindal Steel, 629, 629, 617.5, 619.4 Jsw Steel Li, 1106.25, 1133.9, 1102.1, 1122.3 Kotak Mahind, 792.1, 797.5, 773.4, 782.25 Lakshmi Mach, 2015, 2068, 2015, 2027.95 Lanco Infrat, 66.2, 68.85, 66.1, 68.35 Larsen & Tou, 1894.3, 1919, 1890.3, 1904 Lic Housing, 1061, 1066.9, 1029.3, 1033.35 Lupin Limite, 1871, 1881.45, 1859, 1871.5 Mahanagar Te, 66, 66, 64.25, 64.4 Mahindra & M, 610.5, 615, 600, 602.1 Maruti Suzuk, 1395, 1395, 1351.1, 1358.5 Max India Lt, 162.9, 163.9, 158.5, 159.05 Maytas Infr., 213.5, 213.95, 207.3, 209.05 Moser-baer (, 67.8, 68.5, 66.85, 67.15 Mrpl, 81.25, 81.85, 79.35, 79.9 Nagarjuna Co, 186, 186.9, 181.5, 182.1 Nagarjuna Fe, 32.65, 32.65, 31.65, 31.8 National Alu, 433.9, 437.85, 430, 432.35 Neyveli Lign, 162.8, 162.85, 156.25, 156.65 Ntpc Ltd, 203.5, 204.8, 202.25, 203.2 Oil And Natu, 1259.1, 1269.4, 1252.6, 1259.15 Omaxe Limite, 107, 108.45, 105.9, 106.45 Oriental Ban, 374.45, 374.8, 362.4, 364.7 Pantaloon Re, 460.05, 462.5, 451.1, 455.05 Parsvnath De, 132.4, 134.8, 131.05, 132.05 Petronet Lng, 84.7, 85.45, 83.6, 84.95 Power Fin Co, 333.7, 337.7, 328.5, 331.7 Power Grid C, 100.5, 100.65, 99.7, 99.85 Praj Industr, 83, 83.8, 81, 81.55 Punj Lloyd L, 139, 139.65, 135.1, 136.2 Punjab Natio, 1070, 1080, 1056, 1061.05 Rajesh Expor, 89.1, 89.5, 83.6, 84.25 Ranbaxy Labs, 449.75, 451.7, 445, 446.05 Rashtriya Ch, 89.95, 89.95, 87.15, 87.9 Rel. nat. re, 45.3, 45.3, 44.1, 44.25 Reliance Cap, 815, 816.35, 796, 803.05 Reliance Com, 193.5, 194.25, 187.3, 188.5 Reliance Ene, 950, 969, 921.3, 942.33 Reliance Ind, 942.6, 946.95, 915, 919.2 Reliance Ind, 1057, 1065.9, 1049.1, 1052.95 Reliance Pow, 174, 174.65, 171.3, 171.85 Rolta India, 180.7, 182.7, 178, 178.75 Satyam Compu, 90.7, 90.9, 88.7, 89 Sesa Goa Ltd, 354.5, 359.9, 352.5, 353.85 Shipping Cor, 157.5, 158.2, 155.55, 156.4 Siemens Ltd, 728, 732.9, 711.15, 715.95 Sintex Indus, 344, 347.4, 337.05, 338.7 Sobha Develo, 334, 346.7, 332.5, 340.65

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BIZ

GOA, WEDNESDAY, 21 JULY, 2010

NMDC iron ore pipeline in 20 months AGENCY KOLKATA, JULY 19

State-owned National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) expects to complete within 20 months the construction of a 424-km long iron ore slurry pipeline to bring the ore from the Maoist-affected Bailadila mines in Chhattisgarh to Visakhapatnam port in Andhra Pradesh.

Once completed, the pipeline would help many upcoming steel projects get their key raw material.

SEBI panel for tax parity in open offer, market sale PTI NEW DELHI, JULY 20

A SEBI panel has suggested tax parity be introduced for shareholders who tender their shares in open offer and those who sell through the stock market. According to the SEBI Takeover Advisory Committee, the open offer only provides an opportunity to investors to exit the company and hence need not be treated as off-market transaction.

"The Committee is of the view that there is a need to bring parity in the tax treat-

ment given to the shareholders who tender their shares in an open offer and those who are selling the same in the open market," the report said.

According to the present regulation, open offers are classified as off market deals-- entered into between private individuals and are largely unregulated and a non-transparent.

The Committee noted that the present tax regime in India is more favorable towards the open market transactions as against open offer transactions.

"For taxation purposes, an open offer transaction is considered akin to an off-market deal, which in the view of the Committee is not desirable," the report said.

The panel recommended that the basic objective of an open offer is to benefit investors at large by granting them a just and fair exit opportunity.

"It would perhaps not be correct to club a regulated and investor friendly activity like open offers in the same bracket as an off-market deal," it said.

NEERI develops cheap water purifier PTI NAGPUR, JULY 20

The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), has developed a water purification system for potable water supply which they claim would be helpful during natural disasters.

Branded as 'NEERI-ZAR', it is suitable for rural and remote locations particularly in calamity situations like floods, heavy rainfalls and cyclonic conditions when there is a cut in electricity supply.

It is a typical unit with two 100-litre vessels and can serve up to 30 persons on the basis of 6-10 litres per capita consumption for drinking and cooking purposes.

NEERI-ZAR brings down the turbidity of filtered water to less then three NTU (nephelometric turbidity units) from raw water in the range of 100-300

NTU. The operation unit includes disinfection by chemical agent.

The unit has been tested by NEERI for treatment of raw water spiked with turbidity, bacterial and zooplankton and the results indicate that the unit produces filtered water with a turbidity in the range of 1.1. to 2.8 NTU. According to Dr Arindam Ghosh, Scientist and Head Research & Planning Unit, the total Coliform and E-Coli counts in the water were in the range of usual surface water sourced from flood waters. But after the tests, there was a reduction of 90 to 99 percent in bacterial load.

After disinfection total Coliform and E-Coli counts were nil in the treated water samples, Dr Ghosh said.

Zooplankton species like Cyclops, Nauplius, Daphnia, Bran-

chionus also also removed during filtertation, NEERI said clarifiying that the filter unit can not be used for treatment of brackish water.

The institute has claimed it is simple to fabricate, easy to operate, minimum maintenance, lightweight, easy to transport and installtion, gravity operated and requires no power supply.

It was first time used during Barmer floods in a border district of Rajasthan where people had to walk to fetch drinking water.

The District Collector had approached NEERI for installation of 100 units in flood affected remote areas of Barmer some years back.

As a feedback, NEERI sought opinions of locals and users which was quite encouraging. They were happy with the purifiction system

since all available potable water sources were destroyed, contaminated or submerged due to floods.

Dr Ghosh said as the technology was developed for societal need, they propose to make available this technology free to everybody.

He said there was need for proper marketing of the product and efforts are on to rope in the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) for this.

During the recent cyclonic storm Laila', NEERI supplied and installed 400 units in Sunder Bans (West Bengal) for the locals to purify water and use it, Dr Ghosh added.

It is almost four years since 2006, NEERI developed the device but due to lack of proper publicity and marketing the product is yet to gain all-India presence.

DRUG TRADE:

Wholesellers form Co for retail foray

Investors rushing to emerging Mkts: EPFR

PTI NEW DELHI, JULY 20

REUTERS HONG KONG, JULY 20

To counter the challenge posed by big players'' entry in the drug retail business, countrywide pharmacy owners have formed a company -- All India Origin Chemists and Distributors -- to foray into organised retail. "With the entry of large players a challenge is emerging for small traders.

To counter that our 13,000 members from across the country have come together to form a joint firm -- All India Origin Chemists and Distributors (AIOCD)," association of pharmacy owners All India Organisation of Chemists & Druggists President J S Shinde said. He said the members have contributed around Rs 13 crore to create the drug retailing firm.

The sum would be mostly spent on providing training to members and in purchasing software for standardising the procedures.

"Currently, we are providing training to our members in standardised procedures of organised retail, so that they could also modify their business accordingly to become a partner in the trade," Shinde said.

After getting trained, AIOCD members would rebrand their shops under a single identity to join the retail pharmacy chain.

AIOCD has also announced the launch of its own generic products through a separate division Java.

Emerging markets were in high demand in mid July, with bond fund inflows at a record, as investors chose dynamic developing economies over lagging advanced markets, EPFR Global said on Tuesday.

Emerging market equity funds tracked by EPFR posted combined inflows of more than $3 billion for the week ended July 14, while emerging market bond funds took in $745 million, bringing their year-to-date inflows to an all-time high of $18.5 billion.

While fears about the euro zone sovereign debt crisis have abated somewhat in the run up to the release of bank stress test results on Friday, a flurry of weak US economic data and the impact of China's measures to cool its economy have sapped willingness to take risks for higher returns.

However, quarterly earnings reports have been positive enough for investors to dive back into emerging markets stocks and bonds across the world.

EMERGING MARKET EQUITIES: Desire to own the fund group was indiscriminate. Global emerging market equity funds absorbed the highest inflows since the third week of October.

Asia ex-Japan, Latin America and Europe, Middle East & Africa fund groups all posted

inflows.

India equity funds alone took in $114 million, a 13-week high.

DEVELOPED MARKET EQUITIES: Flows into developed market stock funds were not heavy.

The majority of the $1.86 billion that poured into US equity funds went to a handful of large-cap blend ETFs, masking the outflow from other subfund groups.

Japan-focused funds suffered $171 million in outflows.

Europe-funds also had outflows despite interest in UK, German and France equity funds.

SECTOR FUNDS: Commodity sector funds were the biggest recipients of inflows, and energy sector funds were the only other fund group to take in over $250 million during the week. Interest in exposure to gold has been a boon to the commodity sector.

FIXED INCOME FUNDS: Flows into emerging market bond funds on a year-to-date basis have sought local currency fixed income more than

hard currency. Domestic currency bond funds have had inflows of $9.9 billion compared with $4 billion of inflows to hard currency paper.

In the week to July 14, US bond funds took in $2.97 billion, the biggest weekly gain since February 24.

BOARD MEETINGS Abhishek Inds Aditya Birla Money Karur Vysya Bank Sangam India Alstom Projects Kotak Mah Bank KPIT Cummins Bajaj Auto Fin Mastek Bajaj Finserv Monsanto India Birla Corp NIIT TCI Inds Century Ply Nilkamal Thermax Timex Group Digjam OCL India Transcorp Intl Engineers India Orchid Chem Transport Corp TVS Motor Persistent Sys United Brew Pidilite Inds United Brew Hldg Hyderabad Inds VGuard Inds Pradeep Metal Premier Yes Bank Source: Indiainfoline.com

MF FUNDA BENCHMARK MUTUAL FUND has filed an offer document with SEBI to launch 6 open ended listed index schemes (exchange traded fund).

The NFO price for the schemes will be Rs 10 per unit and will be issued at a premium approximately equal to the difference between face value and 1/100th of the value of Underlying Index.

The scheme names are IT BeES - CNX IT Index (Indices); FMCG BeES - CNX FMCG Index (Indices); Services BeES - CNX Services Sector Index (Indices); Energy BeES - CNX Energy Index (Indices); Pharma BeES - CNX Pharma Index (Indices) and Realty BeES - CNX Realty Index (Indices).

The schemes offer only growth option.

95% to 100% of assets would be allocated in securities constituting of respective index. Upto 5% of assets would be allocated in money market instruments, government securities, bonds, debt instruments and cash at call.

Entry and exit load charge will be nil for the schemes.

The minimum application amount will be Rs 10,000 and in multiples of Re 1 thereafter.

The minimum subscription (target) amount of Rs 10 million is expected to be raised during the NFO period.

The fund manager of the schemes will be Vishal Jain.

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GOA, WEDNESDAY, 21 JULY, 2010

DETAILS OF SCHEME IMPLEMENTED BY DIRECTORATE OF AGRICULTURE DURING 2010-11

STATE SCHEMES I. Crop Production and Input Management

a) High Yielding certified seeds: Certified and hybrid seeds are supplied to the farmers through Co-operative Societies and 50% subsidy is provided at source on cost of this seed. b) Assistance for fencing: To ensure crop protection from stray cattle and wild animals assistance of 50% of the cost with maximum Rs 1.5 lakh is provided. Different types of fencing such as Barbed/G.I. Wire Fencing, Stone Wall Fencing, G.I. or Synthetic Chain Link or Wire Mesh Fencing, Solar Powered Battery Fencing and Live Fencing are admissible for a subsidy. 70% subsidy is provided to SC/ST farmers. c) Distribution of paddy, pulses and groundnut seed minikits: To popularize cultivation of new improved varieties/hybrid seed, minikits are distributed for trial in small quantities free of cost. d) 100% seed treatment programme: Chemicals/bio-pesticides are supplied free of cost to the farmers to keep control on seed borne pest and diseases. e) Development of Sugarcane: i) New area expansion and replanting in sugarcane: Assistance of 50% of the cost i.e. to Rs. 40,000/- is provided towards inputs to the farmer in 2 instalments of Rs. 20,000/- each and linked to the bank loan. ii) Assistance for Ratoon Sugarcane: 25% assistance towards manure and fertilizers is provided for ratoon crop limited to Rs. 5,000/- per ha. f) Plant Protection: i) Assistance for bio-pesticides and bio-control agents and sex pheromones: 50% assistance is provided on the cost of material.

Maximum subsidy of Rs. 8,000/- shall be provided for area of 4 ha.

70% to SC/ST farmers. ii) Assistance for weedicides, pesticides, fungicides in endemic area: 50% assistance i.e. Rs. 2,000/- per ha. is provided against the cost of chemical. SC/ST farmers shall be provided 70% subsidy. iii) Assistance for control of Eupatorium salvinia and other obnoxious weeds: Financial assistance of Rs. 5000/- per ha. is provided for uprooting and destruction of dense and Rs. 2,500/- per ha. for sparsely infested areas on project basis with prior approval. g) Mechanization in Agriculture: i) Custom service: In order to bring more area under paddy, sugarcane, pulses and groundnut and to economize on the cost of cultivation by farmers, 50% subsidy on the standard hire charges i.e.

Rs. 250/- per hour. for tractor, Rs. 164/- per hour for power tiller, Rs. 200/- per/ha. for mini tractor and Rs. 2,000/- per hour for paddy combine shall be paid to the farmer for cultivating these crops. ii) Assistance for purchase of Tractor (30 HP & above): Tractors of 30 HP and above with the minimum one ploughing implement is provided 50% assistance of the standard cost or actual cost whichever is less for an individual farmer. In case of SC/ST farmers, Village Agro Service Centre, registered NGO, registered Society with agriculture mandate, assistance to the extent of 70% of the standard cost of the tractor or actual cost whichever is less, is provided.

The maximum subsidy for the tractor with one implement shall be Rs. 2.75 lakhs for general farmer with 50% subsidy and Rs. 3.85 lakhs for Farmers club, registered Societies, Village Agro Service Centres with 70% subsidy. iii) Subsidy for purchase of power tiller upto 18 HP: Under this component, subsidy shall be provided for power tiller upto 18 HP to the extent of 50% of the standard cost or the actual cost, whichever is

less, maximum limited to Rs. 63,500/-. In case of SC/ST farmers, Village Agro Service Centre, registered NGO, registered Society with agriculture mandate, assistance to the extent of 70% of the standard cost of the tractor or actual cost whichever is less is provided. iv) Subsidy for purchase of power driven implement: The tractor or power tiller driven equipments, like disc, plough, M.B. plough ridger, disc harrow, cultivator, clod crusher, harvesting, attachment, levelling blade, thresher, tractor or power tiller trailers, etc., shall be provided subsidy to the extent of 50% of the standard cost or the actual cost whichever is less, SC/ST farmers shall be provided with 70% subsidy. v) Subsidy for improved manually operated/bullock drawn implements and tools: The improved implements and tools that are manually operated or bullock drawn such as harvesting pole, telescopic pruner, inter cultivator, ridger, bullock drawn groundnut digger, etc., shall be provided subsidy of 50% of the standard cost or the actual cost whichever is less for general farmer and 70% for SC/ST farmer. vi) Subsidy for specialized power drawn equipment: Subsidy of 50% or 70% as per the category of the standard cost or the actual cost, whichever is less, shall be provided for equipments like groundnut digger, cleaner-cum-grader, stubble shaver, fruit harvester. vii) Subsidy for purchase of plant protection equipments: 50% or 70% subsidy of standard cost or the actual cost, whichever is less, shall be provided to all types of manually operated Power & Tractor operated Plant Protection Equipments. viii) Machinery other than above: Machinery like fruit pulper, drier, cashew juice extractor and all new attachments to the machinery shall be provided 50% subsidy. ix) Modern Agriculture Machinery & Equipment: The following identified machinery/implements shall be provided 70% subsidy on the standard cost or the actual cost of machinery whichever is less. Any subsidy received from the Government of India would be adjusted within 70% subsidy.

The machinery/implements are Laser leveller, Rotovator for tractor, Multi crop seed drill, Sugarcane cutter planter, Self propelled or power driven paddy reaper, Multi crop thresher, Sugarcane cutter planter, Self propelled or power driven paddy reaper, Multi crop thresher, Small sugarcane harvesters, Kokum Shredder, Rotary weeder for tractor, Post hole digger, Paddy seeder, Groundnut decorticator, Paddy transplanter, Mini Tractor, Small inter culture machines, Combine harvester, Coconut/Areca nut tree climber, Coconut/arecanut dehusker/peeker, Mechanized Shredder for composting.

the Government to Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth as educational support. Stipend of Rs. 1,000/- per month is provided for 'undergraduate and Rs. 1,500/- for postgraduate student. e) Assistance for soil health improvement through rock phosphate and micro nutrients: Soil of the state being acidic in nature, farmers is assisted with 50% subsidy on purchase of soil conditioner like Rock Phosphate. Maximum subsidy of Rs. 4,000/- will be provided.

SC/ST farmers shall be provided 70% subsidy.

f) Assistance on straight micro nutrient fertilizer: As Zinc Boron, Magnesium have been found deficient in Goan soils, use of micro nutrient fertilizer viz. Zinc Sulphate, Boron and Magnesium Sulphate will be promoted. Maximum subsidy of Rs. 8,000/- will be provided to the extent of 50% of the cost. SC/ST farmers shall be provided 70% subsidy.

Continued on Page 15

II. Development of Agricultural Extension

a) Training: School dropouts, unemployed rural youth are provided training in Agriculture at Government Farms with a stipend of Rs. 3,000/- per month for two months. Besides 20 Agricultural training camps of one day duration are conducted and 1200 farmers are proposed to be trained under on campus training at SAMETI Ela, Old Goa. b) Demonstration, shows and technical literature and farmers tours: Modern equipments will be purchased to demonstrate its use to the farmers. Krishi Mahotsav shall be organized in each taluka.

Publication on advanced agricultural practices shall be published.

Publicity to departmental schemes is provided, through media.

Study tours and exposure visits are conducted to expose extension workers, farmers and policy makers for promotion and study in new sector in agriculture. c) Farmer award: One best fanner at each taluka level and one outstanding farmer at the State Level will be selected for best farmer award. d) Support for higher education in agriculture: To promote education in field of agriculture, State has made arrangement with Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli. Part of the education cost is paid by

India for Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace process PTI KABUL, JULY 20

As world leaders backed handing over Afghanistan's security responsibility to its government by 2014, India on Tuesday said that any new process to stabilise the war-torn nation must be fully "Afghan-led and Afghanowned" and sought an end to sustenance and sanctuaries for terrorists from outside.

The international community should ensure that there is no selectivity in dealing with terrorism, External Affairs Minister S M Krishna said in a statement at the international conference on Afghanistan, where he supported the peace process which, he added, should be "inclusive and transparent."

"Terrorism cannot be compartmentalised. Today, one cannot distinguish between al-Qaeda and plethora of terrorist organisations which have imbibed the goals and techniques of al-Qaeda.

"It is therefore, essential to ensure that support, sustenance and sanctuaries for terrorist organisations from outside Afghanistan are ended forthwith," he told the delegates, inc l u d i n g h i s Pa k i s t a n i counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi who was among the 30-odd Foreign Ministers present at the meet.

He said any new process to stabilise the war-torn country must be "fully Afghan-led and Afghan-owned and carry all sections of the nation's population."

Describing India and Afghanistan as "historic friends," Krishna, speaking to a galaxy of world leaders including US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, said New Delhi has contributed to this country's efforts in nation-building and reconstruction "entirely in accordance with the priorities of the Afghan govern-

ment and people."

"The international community must learn lessons from past experiences at negotiating with fundamentalist and extremist organisations and ensure that any peace process is conducted in an inclusive and transparent manner," Krishna said in a statement at the International Conference on Afghanistan here.

"India also supports Afghanistan's efforts towards peace and reintegration. But for such effort to succeed, it must be fully Afghan-led and Afghanowned and carry all sections of Afghanistan's population together as well as abide by the redlines agreed to at the London Conference," he said.

The London Conference on Afghanistan, he noted, had emphasised on giving up violence, cutting off all links with terrorism – whether 'jehadi' or statesponsored – and accepting the democratic and pluralistic values of the Afghan Constitution, including women's rights.

Krishna emphasised that adequate capacity of the Afghan security forces and other Afghan institutions is a sine qua non for protecting Afghanistan's sovereignty, plurality and democracy.

He said gains of the past nine years stand to be "squandered" if this aspect does not receive the attention that it deserves as the international community ponders its next steps on Afghanistan.

Krishna said that Afghanistan's stability and development depended on the stand of its neighbours as well.

"Afghanistan's stability and economic development depends a lot on its neighbours and the region as a whole."

The recent reports about Afghanistan's great mineral wealth also opens up possibilities for mining and investment.

Youth Cong activist goes missing PTI HARDOI (UP), JULY 20

A youth Congress activist and son of former Gujarat Minister Hasmukh Patel has gone missing from his hotel here, police said on Tuesday.

35-year-old Nishant Patel, who was looking after the youth Congress organisational elections, is missing since yesterday from Hotel Utsav where he was staying since July 2, Inspector General of Police K L Meena said.

Nishant, a returning officer for Mishrik Lok Sabha constituency, is the son of senior Gujarat Congress leader and former minister Hasmukh Patel.

"Nishant was last seen yesterday morning and could not be traced since then. Both of his mobiles and other belongings are present in the hotel room," he said.

Meena said Nishant was last seen going on a rickshaw towards the railway station.

The IG said that a missing report has been lodged on the information given by another returning officer Sukhwant Singh Barar.

Four members of the hotel staff, including the manager, have been quizzed, he said.

Jagan yatra, Babhli issue hots up political temperature in AP PTI HYDERABAD, JULY 20

Congress MP Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy's controversial 'Odarpu yatra', Telugu Desam Party's (TDP) yatra to Maharashtra over Babhli barrage issue and the coming byelections in Telangana have unusually hot up political temperature in Andhra Pradesh.

Jagan, who re-commenced his yatra despite the reservations of the high command, has now become a 'hot potato' for the party leadership.

He announced his decision to go ahead with his tour even while stating in an open letter to people that Congress president Sonia Gandhi did not appear to be positively inclined about his tour.

His subsequent statements, wondering what mistake he is making by undertaking the yatra, and critical remarks against Chief Minister K Rosaiah did not go down well with the party leadership.

AICC general secretary Veer-

appa Moily, in-charge of Congress affairs in the state, said yesterday that "Jagan’s actions are not in the best interests of the party."

In an apparent warning signal to the Jagan camp, Congress high command has suspended state party general secretary Ambati Rambabu, a close confidante of Jagan, for making critical remarks against party leadership and the Chief Minister.

Responding to the suspension of his staunch supporter, Jagan said he is "pained over the disciplinary action taken against Rambabu."

Amid speculation that Jagan may float his own party, the Jagan issue would be most keenly watched in the days to come over the turn of events it may take.

Meanwhile, Telugu Desam's yatra to see the status of the

Govt flays lathi-charge on Naidu PTI HYDERABAD, JULY 20

Andhra Pradesh government on Tuesday strongly condemned the police lathi-charge on TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu and other legislators

by Maharashtra police.

"I strongly condemn the lathi-charge on Chandrababu Naidu and others by the Maharashtra police while they were being shifted from Dharmabad this morning," Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K Rosaiah said in a statement.

He also appealed the TDP cadres not to cause

damage to public properties in the state in protest against the lathi-charge.

"Everyone has to observe restraint on a delicate issue like the Babhli dam. Our government is sincerely working to protect the interests of Andhra Pradesh in a democratic manner in accordance with the provisions of Constitution.

"I am leading an all-party delegation on the issue to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on July 23. I appeal to all political parties and people to join hands with the government in finding an amicable solution to the current problem," Rosaiah said.

PTI LUCKNOW, JULY 20

A local Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader allegedly committed suicide after killing his wife and daughter-in-law in Kotwali area of Faizabad district, police said here on Tuesday.

Krishna Kumar Agarwal (61) hanged himself from a ceiling after killing his wife Prabharani (50) and daughter-in-law Rudrapriya (22) at his Acharya Nagar colony residence last evening, they said.

While Rudrapriya was strangled to death, Prabharani was hit with a rod on her head resulting in her death, police said.

A suicide note was recovered from the spot in which Agarwal had stated that he was committing suicide after killing his wife and daughter-in-law, they said.

Prima facie it appears that family tension led to the incident. Even Agarwal's son had said that the dispute had reached the peak, a senior officer said here.

Tsunami rehabilitation package: UDF walkout

Special trains for Valankanni festival

PTI THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, JULY 20

UNI CHENNAI, JULY 20

The Southern Railway on Tuesday announced special trains to clear the extra rush of passengers on the eve of Valankanni Festival.

Train No 0171 Dadar-Nagapattinam Special will leave Dadar at 10:45 hours on August 27 and arrive Nagapattinam at 23:45 hours, the next day.

Train No 0172 NagapattinamDadar Special will leave Nagapattinam at 21:00 hours on August 29 and arrive Dadar at 11:25 hours, the third day Advance reservation for these trains will commence tomorrow, a Railway release here said.

controversial Babli barrage being "illegally" built by Maharashtra led to tension between the two neighbouring states.

The Maharashtra government not only refused to let the the 75-member-strong TDP delegation see the project but also arrested them for violating prohibitory orders imposed at Dharmabad in Nanded district on Andhra-Maharashtra border.

VHP leader kills wife, daughter-in-law, commits suicide

Taxis were off the road in Kolkata on Tuesday following a 12-hour bandh called by the CITU to ptotest the murder a taxi driver by some unidentified miscreants.

Congress led UDF opposition members in Kerala on Tuesday staged a walkout in the assembly protesting the refusal by Speaker K Radhakrishnan for debate on their adjournment motion on the delay in implementing schemes under Centre sponsored tsunami rahabilitation package.

Replying to the notice for motion by P C George (KC-M), Revenue Minister K P Rajendran said out of the total 12,128 houses planned under the project in nine coastal districts, more than 4,000 had been complted and handed over to beneficiaries.

Delay in completion of the construction work of houses in certain places was due to litigation connected with land ac-

quisition and dispute over the list of beneficiaries, he said.

However, government had fixed a target of finishing the house construction work by December this year, he said.

Radhakrishnan refused leave for the motion after the reply by the minister.

Construction work of more than 7000 houses were at different stages, he said, adding, keys of some of the houses would be handed over in October or November.

George in his opening remark alleged that the government had failed to complete schemes, particularly house construction even after three years of the tragedy. Government also diverted tsunami funds for other purposes, he alleged.

OHERALDO

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GOA, WEDNESDAY, 21 JULY, 2010

Continued from Page 14 g) Assistance for organic manure unit and vermi compost: To produce compost, pit of size 25 cu. Mts., or small size is assisted to the extent of 50% of the cost i.e. Rs. 25,000/- for general farmers and 70% i.e. Rs. 35,000/- for SC/ST.

III. Development of Horticulture

a) Assistance for cultivation of flowers: Assistance of 50% of cost of cultivation of flowers limited to Rs. 12,500/- per ha. for cultivation of loose flower crops and Rs. 50,000/- per ha. for cultivation of bulbous crop is provided. b) Assistance for protected cultivation: For cultivation of high value flowers like Orchids, Anthuriums and Gerbera and high value vegetables require green houses or protected cultivation. Additional assistance of 20% will be provided over and above 50% provided by Government of India with maximum ceiling of Rs. 200/-per sq. mts. for construction of green house/shed net house. c) Assistance for cultivation of Banana/Pineapple/Papaya: Assistance of 50% is provided for cultivation of above crops towards planting material manure fertilizer, pesticides on need basis per plant protection measures limited to Rs. 45,000/-. The assistance provided under National Horticultural Mission shall be adjusted within the above ceilings and balance assistance shall be provided under State Sector Scheme. d) Assistance for cultivation of fruit and spices: Fruits such as chickoo, kokum, breadfruits and spices such as ginger, turmeric, will be provided assistance limited to 50% of cost or Rs. 20,000/- per ha.

e) Programme for Development of Vegetable: Vegetables like Bhendi, Cluster Beans, Brinjal, Chillies, Tendli, Watermelon etc., can be cultivated based on agro climatic situation of the State.

Selected beneficiaries will be provided inputs like vegetable seeds, manure, fertilizer and pesticides on need basis for plant protection measures limited to Rs. 4,000/- for 500 sq. mts. The selection of SHGs/NGOs/Individual farmers interested in cultivation of vegetables will be done by Goa State Horticulture Corporation Ltd., as they will be linked to collection of their produce at prefixed price for sale on the outlets established by GSHCL. f) Assistance for Vegetable seeds: In order to boost vegetable cultivation in the State 50% assistance will be provided for purchase of vegetable seeds (Local, HYV and hybrid) through the departmental sale points. g) Distribution of fruit plant; Fruit plants would be provided to schools/colleges and other social institutions for their plantation drive on need basis. h) Rejuvenation/replacement of senile plantation and canopy Management: The programme is for rejuvenating the old cashew nut gardens by providing required inputs and adopting soil and water conservation measures, pruning of dead wood, removal of senile trees and filling the gaps in the open areas. Assistance in form of inputs for manuring, micro nutrients and integrated pest management and for bunding/trenching @ Rs. 15,000/- per hectare for maximum of 2 ha. per beneficiary is provided. i) Assistance for cultivation of coconut: The coconut area expansion scheme implemented with assistance of Coconut Development Board (CDB) provides assistance of 50% limited to Rs. 8,000/- per ha. The farmers planting coconut seedlings as per the norms of CDB would be provided additional assistance of 50% of the cost of inputs limited to Rs. 12,000/- per ha. in 1st year itself, to bring more area under coconut cultivation. The assistance would be provided for purchase of planting material and other inputs like manures, fertilizers and pesticides on need basis. j) Creation of irrigation infrastructure: a) Assistance for digging of well: Assistance of 50% would be provided for opening of new wells with restriction as below to individual or group of farmers.

• For an area to be irrigated between 0.2 ha. to 1.0 ha., the subsidy proposed under state programme is Rs. 24,000/• For an area to be irrigated between 1.0 ha. to 2.0 ha., the subsidy proposed under state programme is Rs. 30,000/• For an area to be irrigated above 2.00 ha., the subsidy proposed under state programme is Rs. 36,000/The new wells dug should invariably obtain the NOC from WRD as per the directions under Ground Water Regulation Act. b) Assistance for water pump set: Assistance of 90% for water pump set up to 5 HP and 50% assistance for water pump set above 5 HP would be provided under the State programme. The following cost norms for installation of the pump set would be followed: • For 1HP pump the maximum subsidy is Rs 7200 (90%) • For 2HP pump the maximum subsidy is Rs 9000 (90%) • For 3HP pump the maximum subsidy is Rs 14400 (90%) • For 5HP pump the maximum subsidy is Rs 16200 (90%) • For pump above 5 HP to 7.5 HP, the maximum subsidy is Rs 18000 (50%) • For pump above 5 HP to 7.5 HP, the maximum subsidy is Rs 18000 (50%)

• For pump 7.5 HP and above, the maximum subsidy is Rs 20000 (50%)

i) For replacement of pumps which are more than 5 years old, assistance @ 50% for pump set upto 5 HP and 25% for pumps above 5 HP would be provided. ii) The pump cost would include the motor and pump, suction pipe, starter and related accessories. iii) The pumps required to be replaced for upgradation of system to sprinkler/drip would be provided assistance @ 90% and 50% as given above.

IV. Support Price Scheme

a) Paddy: Assistance of Rs. 7,000/- per MT as incentive for paddy sold to designated Co-operative Societies in the State. Minimum quantity is 100 kgs, and maximum 7,000 kgs. for each season. b) Sugarcane: Assistance of Rs. 200/- per MT of sugarcane is given as support price to cane besides Rs. 100/- per MT is given as harvesting assistance, c) Arecanut: The support price is provided to the extent of difference between the actual price received by the farmer and Rs. 100/- limited to Rs. 20/- per kg. for SUPAR1 category and Rs. 10/- for others i.e. KHOKA, LAL KHOKA and VENCH. Maximum quantity is 6,400 kgs. of arecanut. d) Coconut: Assistance to the extent of difference between Rs. 5/minus and the actual rate received per coconut by the farmer is provided.

Minimum quantity of 100 coconuts and maximum 50,000 coconuts. e) Oil Palm: Assistance to the extent of difference between Rs. 5,000/per ton of fruit. Less actual price received by the farmer is provided. f) Cashewnut: Assistance to the extent for difference between Rs. 50/- less the actual price received by the farmer in market limited to Rs. 10/- per kg. for cashewnut.

V. Assistance under Special Component Plan

a) All the schemes applicable to general farmers shall be extended to the SC farmers with added support wherever indicated besides assistance for purchase of agriculture inputs shall be provided to the extent of 70% of the cost.

VI. Assistance under Tribal Sub-Plan

a) All the schemes applicable to general farmers shall be extended to the ST farmers with added support wherever indicated, besides assistance for purchase of agriculture inputs shall be provided to the extent of 70% of the cost.

VII. Soil and Water Conservation

a) Repairs and maintenance of notified bunds: i) Category-1: 50% subsidy given to Tenant association on successful execution of work. ii) Category-II 50%:50%: 100% initial investment by Government and recovery of 50% cost made with 6% interest in ten annual instalments from the Tenant Association. iii) Category-Ill 90%:10%: The repair is taken with 100% initial investment by the Government and recovery of 10% cost from the Tenant Association. b) Desiltation and Revitalization of water bodies: Desilting of water bodies like ponds, tanks reservoirs will be executed by UGs/SHGs, NGOs and individuals with assistance in three instalments i.e. 25%, 25% and 50% of the actual cost.

VIII. Western Ghat Development Programme

1. Training and exhibition: One day training for 100 farmers and 20 extension functionaries will be conducted on integrated farming system, new agro production techniques.

2. Production programme including tree planting and household pro-

duction: Bamboo and medicinal plants will be supplied free of cost.

SHGs/Users individual farmers, labourers, artisan families will be paid assistance of 50% of cost limited to Rs. 25,000/- for the purchase of equipments, tools and raw materials, etc., as per the project report.

3. Conservation programme including land levelling, bank stabilization, diversion of drains, crescent shaped trenches, gully control and sunken ponds: Assistance of 50% of the cost will be provided to execute the work.

IX. Coconut Development Board

a) Laying of demonstration under integrated farming in coconut: To transfer the available technology on the management of diseases in the area and to improve productivity, the assistance of Rs. 35,000/per ha. is provided in two annual instalments. b) Organic manure unit: To promote use of organic' manure, vermi compost, coir pith compost, ordinary compost thereby increasing production and productivity of coconut, assistance of Rs. 20,000/- or 50% of the cost of total infrastructure is provided.

X. Cultivation of Red Oil Palm

a) New Area Expansion: Assistance of Rs. 7,000/- is provided as seedling subsidy in the 1st year of planting. b) Maintenance of areas: Maintenance subsidy @ of Rs. 15,500/- per ha. in four annual instalments is provided. c) Demonstration Plots: Assistance of Rs. 40,950/- is provided in four annual instalments. d) Improved implements: Assistance of 50% of the cost will be provided for purchase of improved harvesting pole and sickle. e) Drip Irrigation for oil palm: Assistance of Rs. 8,600/- per ha. for SF/MF/SC/ST and women farmers while Rs. 6,000/- per ha. for general farmers will be provided for installation of drip unit. f) Training in oil palm cultivation: Oil palm growers will be provided training on cultivation and management of oil palm. g) Innovative measures including use of micro nutrients and soil conditioners: Assistance of 50% of the cost will be provided for purchase of micro nutrient and soil conditioner.

XI. State Extension Programme (ATMA)

a) Exposure visit of extension functionaries and farmers: Exposure visit of extension functionaries will be taken up. b) Exhibition: State Level Exhibition will be organised. c) Training and demonstration: Farmers are trained on various aspects of agriculture. d)Publicity material: Leaflets/folders on different crops will be published.

XII. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana Programme

shall be implemented to support various activities as per the need of State and as decided and approved by State Level Sanctioning Committee.

XIII. National Horticulture Mission (NHM)

i) Fruit Crops other than cost intensive crops using normal spacing: Commercial Mango orchards are to be promoted under this component.

Varieties like Mancurad, Hilario, Musarad, Ratnagiri Alphonso, Amrapali, Keshar are promoted. The cumulative maximum benefit per fanner is 4 hectares. Subsidy would be provided after planting is completed over a period of 3 years in the ratio of 60:20:20 to provide a total subsidy of Rs. 16,500/- per ha. ii) Mushroom: To promote mushroom cultivation in the State the following units can be promoted in the private sector. a) Spawn making Unit: 50% subsidy is provided upto Rs. 7.50 lakhs.

The assistance is provided as credit linked back ended subsidy. b) Compost making Unit: 50% subsidy is provided upto Rs. 10.00 lakhs.

The assistance is provided as credit linked back ended subsidy. iii) Spices: Commercial cultivation of Spices such as Black Pepper, Nutmeg, Cinnamon are to be promoted. The maximum benefit for farmer is 4 hectares. Assistance of 50% of the cost of cultivation limited to maximum Rs. 20,000/-- per ha. whichever is less is provided at one time for cultivation of following spices.

• For Black pepper, the no. of grafts/ha is 1600, spacing between 2.5 x 2.5 metres, the subsidy 50% of the cost in 1 instalment is Rs 10000/• For Nutmeg, the no. of grafts/ha is 160, spacing between 8 x 8 metres, the subsidy 50% of the cost in 1 instalment is Rs 10000/• For Cinnamon, the no. of grafts/ha is 2500, spacing between 2 x 2 metres, the subsidy 50% of the cost in 1 instalment is Rs 20000/iv) Cashew Area Expansion: Cultivation of cashew grafts in new area with varieties like V4, V7, V8, Balli 2 and other high yielding varieties recommended by ICAR is promoted. The cumulative maximum benefit per farmer is 4 ha. Subsidy is provided after planting is completed for a period of 3 years in the ratio of 60:20:20 to provide total subsidy of Rs. 20,000/- per ha.

Required cashew grafts prepared by Departmental nurseries, ICAR Complex Goa, recognized registered nurseries by Directorate of Cashewnut and Cocoa Development, Government of India, Kochi/Government of Goa for Goa and nurseries of research centers outside the State may be used for availing assistance. v) Community Tanks: Assistance is provided for community ponds/tanks and water reservoirs on farms with use of plastic/RCC lining. The minimum command area for irrigation should be 10 ha. for a community tank of size 100 mts. x 100 mts. x 3 mts. and assistance shall be 100% limited to Rs. 15.00 lakhs for ponds/tanks on plain area and Rs 17.25 lakh for ponds/tanks on hilly area. If the pond/tank is taken up under the NREGS than NHM assistance shall be restricted to the plastic lining/RCC lining only. vi) Organic farming: Adoption of Organic Farming and certification: Assistance of Rs. 10,000/- per ha. would be provided for adoption and certification cost of organic farming in 3 instalments over a period of 3 years. vii) Assistance for Post Harvest Management: The establishment of the infrastructure for post harvest management will be taken up on project basis. a) Pack houses/on farm collection and storage unit: Assistance of 50% limited to Rs.1.50 lakhs would be provided for this project. b) Refer Vans/Containers: Credit linked back ended assistance @ 40% of the capital cost limited to Rs. 9.60 lakhs. The units should include insulation, humidity control and fin coil cooling system with provision of multi chambers. Technical parameters issued to be adopted. viii) Establishment of marketing infrastructure for horticultural produce: a) Static/Mobile vending cart/platform with cool chambers: Assistance of 50% limited to Rs. 1.5 lakh would be provided for this project.

XIV. (a) National Agricultural Insurance Scheme:

To provide insurance covering and financial support to the farmers in the event of failure of any of the notified crop as a result of natural calamities, pests and diseases. The joint scheme of Government of India and Goa State Government is being implemented in the State of Goa from Rabi 1999 onwards for all NonLoanee and Loanee farmers.

Crops covered (Kharif): Paddy, Pulses, Groundnut and Sugarcane.

Risk covered: Comprehensive insurance risk will be provided to cover yield losses due to non-preventable risks viz. natural fire and lightening, storm, hail storm, cyclone, typhoon, tempest, hurricane, tornado, inundation, drought, flood, excess rainfall, dry spells, incidence of pest and diseases.

Subsidy on Premium: 20% for

holding less than 2 ha. (b) Coconut Palm Insurance Scheme: Coconut cultivation is subjected to risk to climatic changes, natural disasters, pests diseases etc. To assist coconut growers in insuring coconut palms against natural and other perils. Government of India has .introduced the coconut insurance scheme on pilot basis in the State of Goa. As per the pattern approved by Government of India, 50% of the premium of insurance will be shared by Coconut Development Board, 25% by Government of Goa and 25% by the beneficiary.

Sum Insured and Premium per coconut tree per year: • For coconut palm aged between 4 to 15, the sum insured per palm is Rs 600, the premium per plan/year is 4.25 and the premium per palm (with service tax @10.30%) is 4.69 • For coconut palm aged between 16 to 605, the sum insured per palm is Rs 1,150, the premium per plan/year is 5.75 and the premium per palm (with service tax @10.30%) is 6.35.

Procedure and guidelines to avail assistance for programme of Directorate of Agriculture 1. The desirous bonafide farmers shall apply to Zonal Agriculture Officer of their taluka in prescribed application forms alongwith land index Form I & XIV. 2. The application should invariably have following documents: a) Land index of the property; b) Original receipt of the purchase from nursery men/input dealer having received payment; c) Letter of the bank as financing institution, if any; d) One set of TR-42 form; e) Authority letter, if any, to pay the subsidy to dealer; f) Photostat letter of the operational bank passbook of the beneficiary shall compulsorily be enclosed to the case.

The subsidy will be released on completion of the project.

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Wednesday, 21 July, 2010

Gilding the House of Divinity

ditioning is allowed. Our process is also divided into warmwet, cold-dry and hot-dry according to the climate that the work is carried out. Depending on the climate, we determine the quantity of lacquer to be used. The secret remains with the family,” says John.

John and his father were awarded gold medals for their work on an antique chair which was for the use of Pope John Paul II during his visit to India in February 1986.

“That is an amazing story. Experts were brought in to refurbish the gilded chair for the Pope but their work was not done properly and we were told to work on it again.

Dad and I took exactly three days and nights to restore the chair. We prepared the antique throne for the Pope with full gold leaf (foil). We had to scrape the gold off and set it again. We were then awarded gold medals. It is a great honour,” exclaims John.

In 1999, a course on restoration and conservation by expert Professor Pedro Conceicao Abreu from Portugal was conducted through Fundaco Oriente. John and Marcus attended the course of one month and realised that the technique taught was completely different from theirs. “They took 3 days to wash off the gold foil while we did it in half an hour. The professor was amazed and asked what soap we used. I told him we used a poor man’s soap, reetha (soap nut.) Even though we completed the course we still follow our method as it is not time consuming. Depending on the number of altars, we take from about three months to a year to complete a project.”

The list of churches include the churches in Assagao, Siolim, Tivim, Calangute, Assnora, Vagator, Colvale, Anjuna, Bastora, Camurli, Mapusa, Goa Velha, Agassaim, St Inez, St Estevam, Sancaole, Navelim, Carmona, Pirna, Carambolim, Chinchinim, Colva, Benaulim, Utorda, Rachol and Pilar to name a few. Currently they are working on Our Lady of Patrocinio Chapel, Benaulim.

“When my father used to take projects we used to charge four Annas to complete his work including the cost of gold. When I took my first project which was at St Lawrence church, the cost was Rs 8,000. Now the price of a sheet is Rs 1,850,” says John. “It is even risky getting labour as people land up robbing gold but we have five assistants who have been faithfully working with us for the last 30 years.”

Bringing in the Festivities of ‘Ashad’ Calendar, the As per the Hindu ’ brings with it month of ‘Ashad ivals such as a number of fest ndan, Guru Raksha Bha Panchami, to Poornima, Nag H ea di ng th e na m e a fe w. the festival of celebrations is i Ashadi Ekadash

HERALD FEATURES shadi Ekadashi, the eleventh day of the Ashad month, considered an important Hindu festival, is celebrated all over the country. The day is dedicated to Lord Vithal, and resounds with ‘bhajans’ and ‘kirtans’ sung in his honour.

“Although it is celebrated all over, the grand feast is held at Pandarpur in Maharastra,” says one Hindu devotee.

The feast, celebrated all over the country, is rePut your ear to the garded an imporground and watch out for tant festival a new opportunity comamong the Goan ing your way. Move be(23 Sep – 22 Oct) y o n d y o u r n o r m a l population too. routines a bit today -- you need to Many of the faithful do some exploring! It's a really good go on pilgrimage time for checking out new restaurants to Pandarpur in or meeting new people, so don't just

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­H­O­R­O­S­C­O­P­E Someone's opportunistic tendencies might push things to a boiling point today. Your pas(21 Mar – 19 Apr) sion for exploration is peaking now, and you ought to be able to reach somewhere new by the end of the day, even if you have to work or pick up the kids while you're at it!

stay in all day!

Earthy elements offer you the peace and relaxation you need. Plan a camping trip. A bit of disap(20 Apr – 20 May) pointing news comes your way today -- but it's not so bad that it makes you want to give up. If anything, it may make you decide to take bigger (but smarter) risks in the future.

Getting along well with others is ideal, but be ready to sacrifice popularity today. You lose your (23 Oct – 21 Nov) mind temporarily and go along with plans that you'd reject out of hand on any other day -- but it should all work out well! Sometimes you just need to let the mob move you!

Are you detecting any undercurrents of jealousy? It might not be your imagination. You've (21 May – 21 Jun) got to take things to a new level today -- and it's easier than ever! You may find that your social energy is driving you in a new direction, so follow up on that and see where it leads.

Someone with an original mind will disappoint you with their overused expression. It may seem (22 Nov – 21 Dec) like nothing can spoil your great mood today -- so get out there and have a good time! You're the center of attention in the right way and leading the fun and games all night long.

A sad friend may not feel like coming out and socializing -- respect their wishes. Take at least (22 Jun – 22 Jul) five minutes today to do your own thing, no matter what it is or how many other pressing demands you have to deal with. Selfcare is your most important goal right now.

Your impressive stamina will enable you to outlast everyone else and win this race. If you can keep (22 Dec – 19 Jan) yourself tightly disciplined today, you should be able to pull off mighty achievements. It may be hard, as there's so many distractions swirling around you, but it's not impossible.

Steer clear of any big egos you encounter today. Their arrogance may ruin your mood.

(23 Jul – 22 Aug) You're feeling pretty wild today, which is great for most of your activities -- they need an edge right now! It may also be a good time for you to jump ahead to the next stage of your plans.

Putting a restriction on your feelings isn't wise.

Let emotions be what they are. Your friends (20 Jan – 18 Feb) need you now more than ever -- though they may not know how to ask for help. Reach out and see what you can do for those in need, and rack up some positive karma for later!

Have pride in your healthy ambition -- it's going to get you everything you deserve. Your (23 Aug – 22 Sep) family is holding you back today -- but it's also keeping you grounded, so the trade-off should seem worth it! You may want to just relax and hang out with them for the time being.

Things you once found difficult will be easy today, so go back to an old puzzle. You've got to (19 Feb – 20 Mar) look more closely at today's news and gossip -- there's a lot more going on than you realize.

Pay attention to the details and you should see a pattern starting to emerge.

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The human body has a mechanism to selfheal. Depending on the disease and the attitude towards that disease the body can handle almost anything. Speaking more on it, is pranic healer, Dr Anjali Shackelton, a testimony to the therapy, who will give a free demonstration on July 25 at Clube Gasper Dias, Miramar. Herald expounds

Father-son duo: (left) John D’ Souza and (right) Fenelon D’ Souza - 98 years old

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Parenting

Let your Body Heal You

He has adorned almost every church in the state of Goa with his years of experience and a gold foil in hand. John D’ Souza speaks to Herald about his trade of decorating and renovating church altars with 24 carat gold

BY DOLCY D’CRUZ HERALD FEATURES sk for Fenson and Johnson Painters in Badem – Assagao and you will be asked, ‘is he the artist who decorates churches in gold?’ A down-to-earth person, John D’Souza has gained fame for completing more than 100 churches and chapels in Goa, right from the well known churches in Old Goa to the ones located in more remote reaches in villages like Tormas in Pernem. What is amazing is that John remembers the names of each church along with the name of the then Parish priest by just looking at a photograph of that undertaking. John is the son of Fenelon D’Souza, well known as the ‘doyen of gold craft on church altars’. Fenelon was Goa’s most popular gold-leaf painter of ancient altars and church artefacts. He restored magnificent church altars and gilded most of the churches during the Portuguese regime. He even travelled to Daman and Diu to complete a few churches. Right from his teenage years, John accompanied Fenelon and learnt the trade with practical experience. Though they are six siblings, John is the only one who continued with the family occupation. Working under the able guidance of his father, John continued with the trade of gilding churches after his father’s demise at the age of 98. Now John is accompanied by his son Marcus and daughter Santana. The traditional occupation of the family has been carried out for the past 350 years. “I had once climbed up to the topmost part of the main altar of St Monica where the altar shows Jesus going to heaven, to clean it and repaint it, when I noticed the name of one of my great grand uncles, Pedro Simao D’Souza, written on it. That almost dates back 200 years. Besides that, many churches in Mumbai and even Ahmedabad have names of my father’s grand uncles signed on their church artefacts,” says John.

John is a specialist in 24 carat gold gilding and is a licensed goldsmith having a license financed by Central Government of India under the Gold Control Act. His family shares a traditional method of applying gold foil with a secret lacquer which lasts for over a century. The gilding is completed in the traditional way which has been followed for generations by the D’Souza family by laying fine gold-leaf over a specially prepared lacquer which was formulated by his ancestors. “We first clean the altar, cover the painted part of the altar so that it doesn’t get damaged while washing off the gold foil, then we apply a coat of lacquer which keeps termites away, after leaving it for 36 hours to dry, we then apply the gold foil,” says John. “The only thing that can spoil our work is air. We have to keep the doors shut, fans off and no air-con-

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Maharashtra.

The age old tradition of walking to Pandarpur is still followed by some, though many travel to a point in Maharashtra by bus and from there, they complete the journey by foot.

In Goa, the followers gather at the Pandurang Temple in Sanquelim to sing the praises of Lord Vithal. “The abhishek is held early in the morning, as early as 5am,” says a devotee. “Though the fast kept on the festival day is usually observed by married women, girls wishing to marry soon also keep fast on this day,” informs, Smita Naik. “We fast for the entire day, breaking our fast only the next day. During this time, grain such as rice and wheat are not allowed; we only consume fruits, nuts and milk,” she adds.

The Goans look forward to this festive season with great gusto and reverence to the gods.

Abhishek-Katrina sign Three Films Together!

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BY NOMRATHA FERNANDES HERALD FEATURES Working with pranic healing for around 10 years, what is your understanding of it?

The Sanskrit word ‘pran’ implies life energy. This energy exists in us all, within our physical body and around it. A certain ‘pran’ dynamic is required for the smooth functioning of the physical, emotional, mental and psychological selves. Life brings along stressors, which affect one or more of these selves. This stops the body from taking in the required amount of ‘pran’ and from expelling used up ‘pran’, which is when disease sets in. Here is when pranic healing intervenes. It is a no touch, no drug therapy that harnesses the energy of the cosmos through physical exercises and meditation, to unclog the body and allow for the smooth flow of ‘pran’. The transference of ‘pran’ works strongly through the ‘chakras’ or the energy points in the body.

I take it that the break in flow of ‘pran’ is what we would call a health condition, like a fever, a headache or joint pain for that matter. So is pranic healing alone used to cure the body of ailments and disease or does it go further?

A definite, speedy and potent cure is what I have seen from my dealing with the therapy. It can be used either alone or as a complementary treatment to common diseases, disorders and ailments to the extreme l i ke s c h i z o p h re n i a , chronic drug abuse, and yes even cancer. And yes, it goes leaps and bounds beyond only ridding the body of disease. A perfectly healthy person can utilise pranic healing for overall health and well-being of themselves and if desired, after undergoing the short, concise, simple and easy course, forward it to those around them too. All one needs is to be 18 years and above and have an open mind.

How does pranic healing work? Can you elaborate on its benefits?

A pranic healer begins with a scan. This scan reveals the areas that are affected by either less ‘pran’ or an excess of it. Through simple physical movements and/or chants the

healer clears the blockage and allows for the smooth flow of ‘pran’. Sometimes, healers find diseases before they manifest themselves in the physical body. In such cases, they can be prevented from affecting the physical self, proving that the therapy is preventive. It gets down to the root cause of the trouble on the surface.

Its benefits are plenty. Sticking to the physical, it improves blood circulation, cleanses the blood, strengthens the immune system, rids the body of allergies, etc. All of this in turn translates itself to the psychological, emotional and mental selves, which all work in tandem to the physical. It works perfect for sportspeople, on and off field.

What is your personal experience with it? We’re talking introduction, course of study, maybe even a personal tale or two?

I am a doctor by profession, have practised in Lucknow, Mumbai and Chennai. When I heard of pranic healing I had an inclination towards it and felt like there was more to it. So I took the course, my teacher being Dr Sir Cliff Saldanha who worked under Grand Master Choa Kok Sui, modern founder. Through the ten years that I have practiced pranic healing, I can say it has given me all that I imagined it too.

Two incidents can be highlighted, one personal. One includes the lessening of severity of a case of extreme dysmenorrhoea of 27 years and the other during the pregnancy of my son; it was a comfortable, painless delivery all through methods of pranic healing.

On Shoot Injuries are “Good Omen” for Stallone

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ollywood’s action star Sylvester Stallone says getting hurt on a movie set is a “good omen”, because all the films which have left him with serious injuries have done well at the box office.

The 64-year-old star considered that taking health risks while performing death-defying stunts has always paid him off.

“It’s a good omen. Every film I’ve done where I got injured has turned out great.

‘Rocky II’ was 60 stitches; ‘Rocky III’ was a concussion; the last Rambo was a bruised artery. Ones where I come out unscathed? Disasters,” Stallone said.

But Stallone recently admitted he will have to let go of his superstition and stop doing stunt work, after seriously injuring his shoulder and back in a fight sequence with wrestler Steve Austin on the set of his new film ‘The Expendables’. His doctor has told him he will risk spending the rest of his life in a wheelchair if he continues with his daredevil antics.

“I couldn’t do this again. This is it, there’s nothing left. I have had four operations since the film. The doctor says that if I hurt my neck again, that’s it - paralysis or worse.

I don’t want to hear that but it’s a fact,” added Stallone.

rom the moment Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwariya Rai got together, they seemed to have merged each other’s love and hate lists. People who were once friends now became strangers. This was especially in the case of Salman Khan, who, post the AbhiAish union, was pretty close to the Bachchans.

What seems to be changing that trend is Abhishek pairing up with Katrina Kaif, a notso-favourite person of wifey Aishwariya. After sharing screen space in ‘Sarkar’, Abhishek and Katrina seem to be on a real trail of romantic comedies under the Vipul Shah banner, the first out of which is to be shot in the coming months.

Reportedly, Abhishek was a regular visitor on the sets of ‘Action Replayy’, in which his wife Aishwarya Rai Bachchan starred opposite Akshay Kumar.

It was during his visits that he grew close with the director Vipul Shah, who directed ‘Action Replayy’. The buzz is that so impressed was Vipul Shah with Abhishek’s sense of humour, that he had made up his mind to cast him in his future project.

Now, the director has finalised not one, but three projects with Abhishek Bachchan and Katrina Kaif in the lead. All three of these are to be romantic comedies!

So, the first one is to be started in August, when Katrina returns from her shooting schedule of Zoya Akhtar’s ‘Zindagi Milegi Na Dobara’.

The shooting will begin with a song sequence to be shot in Mumbai, and then the schedule will be shifted to London, where the majority of the flick will be shot.

Well, to see this hot new Jodi after a gap of five is surely going to be a treat for their fans, and all movie buffs! So, just wait for the Rom- Com flood on the silver screen, with Abhishek and Kat!

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GOA’S HEARTBEAT Wednesday, 21 July, 2010

WHAT’S UP IN GOA??

A pranic healing session by Dr Anjali Shackelton will take place on July 25 at 5pm at Clube Gasper Dias, Miramar, Panjim. Register is open. It is free and open to all. Call 2451080 or 09987062209.

The birth anniversary of educationalist Professor Vinayak Jeevaj Mahatme will be celebrated on July 22 at the Kala Academy, Panjim.

Gurupoornima Mahotsav 2010, organised by Samarpan Dhyan Parivar, Goa will be held from July 24 to 26 at the Mandovi Sabha Mandap, Porvorim.

A blood donation, eye check-up and diabeties detection camp, organised by the Panjim Ambulance and Welfare Trust and the blood bank of the Goa Medical College will take place on July 24 at Hotel Manoshanti.

A 1-day workshop for children on Harry Potter, by the children’s book club, the Pageturners will take place on July 25 from 10am to 4pm at the International Centre Goa, Dona Paula.

Visit www.internationalcentregoa.com.

E-mail prog@incentgoa.com. Call 9765404391 or 2452805-10.

‘Enhancing Human Development Coverage: Skills for Reporting/Writing’, a 3-day journalism workshop, organised by the International Centre Goa, JM Foundation for Excellence in Journalism, Goa Union of Journalists, Media Information and Communication Centre of India in collaboration with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung will be held from July 24 to 26 at the International Centre, Dona Paula. Call 9765404391.

A Konkani literary contest in the Roman script, organised by the Goan Review Art Foundation (GRAF) is open for registration till July 31. Call 2630139.

A Konkani Musical Programme on National Integration held under the Tiatr Academy of Goa’s (TAG) scheme, ‘Production of Musical Programmes

copestone

Function Noun Meaning 1 : the top stone of a building or other structure 2 : finishing touch Example Sentence The artist added the copestone to his masterpiece and admired his work with pride.

EN

PEN T HAP

DAILY GROOK GRAPH LAUGH

by Francis Rodrigues a spiky line scrawl is a picture witty, when seen on a wall that's...graph'itti!

Instructions for Sudoku SUDOKU SOL 609 9 x 9 letter: To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in each of the nine vertical columns, in each of the nine horizontal rows and in each of the nine boxes

11:00 Indian Idol 13:00 Baat Hamari Pakki Hai 13:30 Maan Rahe Tera Pitaah 14:00 Baat Hamari Pakki Hai 14:30 Aahat 15:00 C.I.D 17:30 Indian Idol 19:30 Godh Bharaai 0:00 Maan Rahe Tera Pitaah 20:30 Baat Hamari Pakki Hai 21:00 Boogie Woogie Kids 22:00 Indian Idol : Extra

11:00 Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi

email us at: goasheartbeat@herald-goa.com

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Pg17

HERALD FEATURES andovi Entertainment in association with Youth Eye magazine organised its first national event, titled Mr & Ms Youth Eye Goa Pageant 2010, on July 18, 2010 at the Taleigao Community Hall.

The event started with the introduction of the judging panel which included 2 celebrity judges, actresses Meghna Naidu and Avantika Sharma, and three judges from Goa, namely model Dawn Mortimer, fashion designer Monty Sally and fashion photographer Sanjeev Salvi. Following the introduction was the release of the July issue of Youth Eye magazine at the hands of chief guest Subash Shirodkar, Janardhan Bhandari, Chairman and MD of Mandovi Entertainment, Kunal Sagarkar, MD and CEO of Mandovi Entertainment and Sachin Jain, Chairman of Aditya Group of Companies.

The top 22 participants displayed immense talent throughout the four rounds that included exuberant ethnic, casual talent, evening wear and question answer round. The costumes were des i g n e d b y M o n t y S a l l y, Bernedette, Sahil Dekhne, Samrudh Bharne and Blaze.

Winners will now compete for India’s title at Pune shortly.

Informative Kitchen Garden Workshop held at Goa Chitra HERALD FEATURES any people no longer seem to trust the vegetables sold in the market nor are they willing to let their backyards become barren. This was evident from the response received for the kitchen garden workshop held at Goa Chitra on July 18, 2010. Organised by the Goa Chitra Museum and Vardaan – The Eco Shop, the aim was to teach participants to grow their own vegetables the healthy way and to discuss the self sustaining lifestyles of our ancestors.

The resource expert for the workshop was Miguel Braganza, Addl. Director, OFAI Secretariat, Mapusa, assisted by Rena Menezes e Fernandes of Vasco. The session began with a general discussion on problems faced by people in their experience with fruit trees and vegetable crops, following which Miguel gave various remedies or possible solutions that were acceptable in organic farming for dealing with these problems.

This was followed by a discussion on how old plants could be infused with new life and preferred varieties of fruits introduced in the garden by the use of grafting. Various methods of grafting were covered including air layering, stone grafting using two root systems, double grafting i.e. one scion grafted to two seedlings and grafting to infuse life into an old tree.

Rena Menezes of Agriculture Department gave a presentation on how to grow mushrooms from spawn at home using just straw, a few plastic bags and the spawn seed which is available at ICAR, Ela Goa. Post lunch, Miguel demonstrated the art of potting a plant; how to plant a tree or vegetables in a pot followed by a talk on soil management, problems with using urea, use of cow dung, EM and compost to improve fertility of soil, composting and a demonstration on potting. Each participant was provided with a pot, mud, vermicompost and a cutting.

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SOUTH POLE

10:15 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta…

11:15 Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo 12:00 Mrs. & Mr. Sharma Allahabadwale 12:30 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta…

13:00 Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo 13:30 Papad Pol 14:00 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolt…

14:30 Mrs. & Mr. Sharma Allahabadwale 15:00 Lapataganj 15:30 FIR 16:00 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta…

16:30 Papad Pol 17:00 Mrs. & Mr. Sharma Allahabadwale 17:30 Gutar Gu 18:00 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta…

18:30 Papad Pol 19:00 Lapataganj 19:30 Mrs. & Mr. Sharma Allahabadwale

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INGS

GARFIELD

11:00 Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya 11:30 Behenein 12:00 Sapna Babul Ka ...Bidaai 12:30 Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai 13:00 Tere Mere Sapne 13:30 Hamari Devrani 14:00 Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat 14:30 Behenein 15:00 Chaand Chupa Badal Mein 15:30 Sapna Babul Ka ...Bidaai 16:00 Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai 16:30 Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya 17:00 Sasural Genda Phool 17:30 Saath Nibhana Saathiya 18:00 Tere Liye 18:30 Sabki Laadli Bebo 19:00 Saath Nibhana Saathiya 19:30 Sasural Genda Phool 20:00 Chaand Chupa Badal Mein 20:30 Behenein 21:00 Sapna Babul Ka ...Bidaai 21:30 Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai 22:00 Tere Liye

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“The last time anybody made a list of the top 100 character attributes of New Yorkers, common sense snuck in at number 79.”

– Douglas Adams

11:30 Pavitra Rishta 12:00 Mera Naam Karegi Roshan 12:30 Yahan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli 13:00 Jhansi Ki Rani 13:30 Pavitra Rishta 14:00 Choti Bahu 14:30 Mera Naam Karegi Roshan 15:00 Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi 15:30 12/24 Karol Bagh 16:00 Yahan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli 16:30 Choti Bahu 17:00 Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi 17:30 Jhansi Ki Rani 18:00 Pavitra Rishta 18:30 Mera Naam Karegi Roshan 19:00 Ghar Ghar Mein 19:30 Choti Bahu 20:00 Jhansi Ki Rani 20:30 Yahan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli 21:00 Pavitra Rishta 21:30 Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi 22:00 12/24 Karol Bagh 22:30 Mera Naam Karegi Roshan

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Mr and Ms Youth Eye Goa 2010 - Rupesh Naik and Zara Viegas

Funny Quote

Pronunciation kohp-stohn

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Mr and Miss Youth Eye Goa – The Results!

LAFFS

WORD OF THE DAY

SUDOKU 610

on Patriotism/ National Integration/ Communal Harmony’ will be held on July 27 at 7pm at the Kala Academy, Panjim. Call 2420452.

‘Behaviour Change Communication’, an interactive session will take place on July 21 from 6pm to 7:30pm at the International Centre Goa, Dona Paula. Call 9765404391.

‘Ashadhdhara’, a musical programme, organised by the Samrat Club of Bicholim will be held on July 21 at 3:30pm at the Kelbai Temple, Mulgao.

How self-help groups are making differences in peoples lives in Goa will be the topic of discussion at the Friday Balcao session to be held on July 23 from 4pm tp 6pm at the Goa Desc Resource Centtre, Mapusa. Email goadesc@gmail.com.

‘Giving Voice to India’, a music workshop conducted by soprano Patricia Rozario and pianist, writer, composer and broadcaster, Mark Troop will take place from July 27 to 31 at the Kala Academy, Panjim. Visit www.associationsargam.com/march2010/patricia2010.html.

E-mail diasfluis@yahoo.com. Call 9011051950.

Tailoring, machine and hand embroidery, crochet, flower making, fabric painting, candle making and bakery and cookery courses, organised by Caritas, Goa will be held from August for a period of 6 months at Dr Graciano de Santana Ribeiro Empowerment Centre, Porvorim. The courses are specially designed for the benefit and empowerment of women.

Call 2416716 or 9765256547.

‘Yuva Goa 2020’, an incident writing competition, organised by Hauns Theatre Training Centre, Ponda is open for registration till July 31. E-mail haunstheatre@rediffmail.com. Call 9823229961 or 9823645380.

Education

08:55 Horton Hears a Who! 10:45 All The Boys Love Mandy Lane 12:30 A View to a Kill 15:05 Babylon A.D. 16:55 The Ramen Girl 19:00 Born to Fight 21:00 Phone Booth 22:40 You Only Live Twice

08:00 Raja Bhaiya 11:30 Dil Hai Tumhaara 16:25 Kunwara 20:00 X Men II 23:30 Rama Rama Kya Hai Dramaaa

09:30 Terror in the Deep 12:30 Maa Ka Chamatkar 16:00 Devdas 20:00 Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam 09:30 Coming to America 12:00 Iron Man 14:30 Death Warrant 16:15 Role Models 18:15 TMZ 18:45 Pitch Black 21:00 Iron Man 23:30 Rollerball

11:30 Laws of Attraction 13:25 How To Go Out on a

Date in Queens 15:15 A Good Woman 17:10 Looking for Kitty 18:50 Death of a President 21:00 Wild Things: Diamond in the Rough 22:55 Desperado

12:00 Kaal 16:00 King Uncle 20:00 Partner 23:30 Mashaal

12:00 Main Khiladi Tu Anari 16:00 Khal Nayak 20:00 Journey Bombay to Goa

E N T E R TA I N M E N T 20:00 Papad Pol 20:30 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta…

21:00 Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo 21:30 Mrs. & Mr. Sharma Allahabadwale 22:00 Lapataganj 22:30 Yeh Chanda Kanoon Hai

10:00 Dill Mill Gayye 10:30 Geet 11:00 Laughter Dons 12:00 Laughter Ke Phatke 12:30 Dill Mill Gayye 13:00 Mile Jab Hum Tum 13:30 Geet

14:00 Rang Badalti Odhni 14:30 Jaane Pehchaane Se Yeh 15:00 Naqaab 17:30 Laughter Dons 18:30 Star One Horror Nights 19:00 Geet 19:30 Rang Badalti Odhni 20:00 Dill Mill Gayye 20:30 Jaane Pehchaane Se Yeh 21:00 Mile Jab Hum Tum 21:30 Geet 22:00 Rang Badalti Odhni 22:30 Dill Mill Gayye

11:00 CSI: NY : Rest in Peace, Marina Garito

12:00 Total Wipeout 13:30 So You Think You Can Dance 14:30 Caught on Camera 15:30 Whacked Out Sports 17:00 The Amazing Race 18:00 Fear Factor: The Rat Pit 19:00 Guinness World Records 20:00 Masters of Illusion 21:00 Whacked Out Sports 22:00 Wipeout

10:00 How I Met Your Mother 10:30 The Simpsons 11:00 V.I.P 12:00 Friends

12:30 White Collar 13:30 The Simpsons 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 14:30 Whose Line Is It Anyway?

15:00 Desperate Housewives 16:00 The Simpsons 16:30 Friends 17:00 White Collar 18:00 V.I.P 19:00 Castle 20:00 The Simpsons 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Friends 21:30 Whose Line Is It Anyway?

22:00 White Collar

12:00 FIM Motocross World Championship 2010 H/ls 13:00 Hitz 13:30 2010 FIFA World Cup : Netherlands vs. Spain 16:00 FIA Wtcc 2010 H/ls 16:30 Golf Focus 2010 17:00 Game 17:30 Glitch 18:00 Thailand Vs Challenger Series 21:00 Score Tonight 21:30 TNA Ppv : Bound for Glory

10:00 Red Bull X Fighters World Tour 2010 : Round 2 11:00 Open Championship 2010 14:00 WNBA Regular Season 2010 : New York Liberty vs.

Connecticut Sun 16:00 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup Germany 2010 : Opening Game: Germany vs. Costa Rica 18:00 World of Gymnastics 18:25 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup Germany 2010 : Group Stage: Nigeria vs.

Mexico

20:30 Sportscenter India 21:00 Uca/uda College Cheer leading & Dance Championship 21:25 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup Germany 2010 : Group Stage: Ghana vs.

Switzerland 23:30 Sportscenter Asia

09:00 2010 India tour to Sri Lanka : Preview: 1st Test Day 4 17:30 2010 Australia vs. Pakistan : 2nd Test Day 1 22:00 FIFA: Futbol Mundial 22:30 WWE: Bottom Line 23:30 2010 India tour to Sri Lanka H/ls : 1st Test Day 4

07:30 Flavors 08:00 English News 09:00 Konkani News 10:00 Marathi News 11:00 Ashad Saari 12:00 Face-2-Face 12:30 Flavors 13:00 English News 14:00 Khell Tiatr 16:00 Face-2-Face 16:30 Flavors 17:00 Ashad Saari 18:00 Konkani News 19:00 Marathi News 20:00 English News 21:00 Ashad Saari 22:00 English News 23:00 Disha 00:00 HCN Smash Hitz 00:30 Flavors 01:00 Art of living 01:30 Health Watch 02:00 Kisd Club 02:30 Flavors 03:00 Revolutionz Note: Subject to change

HERALD CROSSWORD - 610 Across 1- This, in Tijuana; 5- Inactive; 10- ___-Mart; 13- Large jug or pitcher; 14- Barracks; 16- 100 square meters; 17Something that restricts; 19Compose; 20- Between ports; 21- Translation; 23Hot time in Paris; 24- Folk singer Burl; 26- Coup d'___; 27- Scrape off; 29- Lustful; 32- Laugh loudly; 33- Stool pigeon; 36- Dryness of the eye; 41- Tidy up; 42- Among; 44- NaCl site; 48- Boring; 50"Night" author Wiesel; 51Golfer Aoki; 53- Some docs; 54- Decorative metal inlay; 58- Follow; 60- Jackie's second; 61- Everlasting; 64- Boy king; 65- Three in one; 66Injectable diazepam, in military lingo; 67- Dash lengths; 68- Aquatic mammal; 69- Designer Cassini; Down 1- Alway; 2- Sauna; 3- Mosaic pieces; 4- Commedia dell'___; 5Here, to Henri; 6- Mother-ofpearl; 7- Adlai's running mate; 8- Bridle strap; 9- Stepped; 10North American elk; 11- Places of contest; 12- Extent; 15- Vane dir.; 18- Sudden assault; 22- Not emp.; 23- Decoration at the top of a chair leg; 25- Evening star; 28- Sheet music abbr.; 29- Architect Mies van der ___; 30Landlocked African land; 31___ Aviv; 34- Word of comparison; 35- Giant Mel; 37- Single

unit; 38- Fannie ___; 39- SOLUTION - 609 Pertaining to thoughts; 40Air craft; 43- Bad start?; 44- Calm; 45- Old call to arms; 46- Borders; 47Beverage commonly drunk in England; 49- Routine; 51- Two cents, so to speak; 52- Paris divider; 55- Concorde, e.g.; 56- Atlantic mackerel; 57- Expel gas or odor; 59- With the bow, in music; 62- Thrice, in prescriptions; 63- Fall behind;

pg20_Layout 1 7/20/2010 11:41 PM Page 1

SPORTS

Espanyol wins Joga contest Pg 18

Pg 20

Chhetri set to play against Man Utd Pg 19

GOA, WEDNESDAY, 21 JULY, 2010 www.oheraldo.in

Lanka push India to the wall

Muttiah Muralitharan gets a guard of honour from the Indian players as he walks out to bat.

Cracker of a farewell for Murali at Galle AGENCIES GALLE (SRI LANKA), JULY 20

Lasith Malinga traps Gautam Gambhir in front in Galle on Tuesday.

PTI GALLE (SRI LANKA), JULY 20

India were left with an arduous task of batting their way to safety after losing three key wickets in the rain-hit first cricket Test against Sri Lanka who took firm control of the game by scoring an imposing first innings total of 520 for 8 declared here today.

The hosts relied on the heroics of their tailenders Rangana Herath (80 not out) and Lasith Malinga (64) to rattle up a mammoth total before declaring their innings at tea and shut a struggling India out of the game.

Herath and Malinga turned out to be the unlikely batting heroes as the islanders recovered from a few early jolts and had the visitors in trouble by the end of the day by dismissing Gautam Gambhir (2), Rahul Dravid (18) and Sachin Tendulkar (8).

Virender Sehwag (85), who payed with his usual flamboyance, and VVS Laxman (18) ensured that there were no more setbacks as they took the score to 140 for three at close on the third day with the hosts still trailing by 380 runs.

With two days left in the match and the pitch at the Galle International stadium expected to deteriorate, the Indians need to bat out of their skin to ensure that Muttiah Muralitharan's

swansong Test ends in a draw.

The day clearly belonged to the hosts as they not only consolidated their position by amassing a huge score but also scalped three prized wickets.

While Gambhir perished in Malinga's first over, Dravid was run out trying to go for a cheeky single. But the biggest blow for the visitors came when Tendulkar was trapped leg before

by Muralitharan.

Earlier, the Indians managed to claw back into the game to some extent in the pre-lunch session as they evicted Tharanga Paranavitana (111), Thilan Samaraweera (0), Mahela Jayawardene (48) and Angelo Mathews (41).

But the late order belligerence of Herath and Malinga took the game completely away from the Indians.

After the second day was completely washed out, play resumed today after an hour's delay with Sri Lanka at 256 for two and the Indians managed to get a few quick wickets in the opening session.

Ishant, who has been struggling for quite some time, tasted his first success when he induced a nick from centurion Pa r a n a v i t a n a w h i c h w e n t straight to wicketkeeper Dhoni.

Paranavitana (111) poked at the moving delivery off the backfoot and the diving Indian skip-

Stokes’ nomination accepted, HI rejects govt grants PTI NEW DELHI, JULY 20

Hockey India today became the latest sports federation to reject government grant and go ahead with its upcoming elections by def ying the Sports Ministry's age limitation guideline.

In yet another snub to the Ministry, Hockey India said that it will conduct its elections as per its constitution and will not tolerate any interference from outside, thus becoming the third sports body after IOA and Badminton Association of India to refuse government aid.

On a day of high drama, Vidya Stokes' nomination for HI president's post was accepted by the Returning Officer, setting the stage for a showdown with the Sports Ministry.

Stokes' candidature came under scanner yesterday after the Sports Ministry made it clear that the ‘No Objection’ given to Hockey India for the July 28 polls was conditional and would apply only on abiding with the recent age limitation guidelines of the government.

Stokes, who earlier held the post of Indian Women's Hockey Fede r a t i o n c h i e f, i s presently 83 and as per the government guidelines no official who is 70 or above is eligible to contest elections of National Sports Federations.

But Justice Justice R C Chopra approved of Stokes' nomination after Hockey India refused to go by the government's guidelines, saying the national body was bound by the Societies Act and its own Constitution.

The HI's decision to ignore government funds came to light later in the evening when Sports Ministry observer SK Mendiratta submitted his report.

"Narinder Batra (Stokes' representative) categorically made a statement before the Returning Officer that the Hockey India was not asking for any financial grant or facilities from the Government and, therefore, the Hockey India was not obliged to follow and implement Policy Guidelines of the Government," the report said.

per made no mistake.

Debutant Abhimanyu Mithun then struck another blow to the Lankan line-up when he had new batsman Thilan Samaraweera (0) trapped leg before.

The ball that slanted in late caught Samaraweera unawares and the Hawkeye showed the it may have just kissed the top of the middle stump.

Samaraweera had earlier got a reprieve when Rahul Dravid dropped a sitter off the bowling of Mithun at first slip. The outside edge looped up and carried straight into Dravid's lap but failed to stick.

However, former Lankan skipper Jayawardene took a measure of the Indian fast bowlers as he cut a Mithun bouncer over the slip cordon for a boundary.

Jayawardene later got the benefit of the doubt when his attempted sweep popped into Gautam Gambhir's hand at short leg. The third umpire ruled that the ball had bounced before carrying to Gambhir.

Dhoni decided to bring back the fast bowlers in pursuit of further wickets as both Mathews and Jayawardene showed little difficulty in playing the spinners.

Ishant was unlucky not to get early breakthroughs as he troubled the batsmen but finally got Jayawardene (48) who missed an attempted flick and was trapped leg before wicket.

Fedrigo denies Armstrong win AGENCIES PAU (FRANCE), JULY 20

Lance Armstrong lost a sprint finish and watched his chances of a stage win in his final Tour de France slip away on Tuesday.

Armstrong came in sixth in a sprint won by Pierrick Fedrigo of France, ahead of Sandy Casar o f Fr a n c e and Ruben Plaza of Spain. Armstrong had joined the first break of the day and remained ahead of the peloton for nearly the entire length of the 16th stage that had four major climbs, including the famed Col du Tourmalet.

Fedrigo was in a group of nine that included Armstrong, who had attacked repeatedly from the beginning of the stage. Both finished the grueling 124 miles from Bagneres-de-Luchon to Pau in 5 hours, 31 minutes, 43 seconds.

There was no change in the overall standings in the race. Alberto Contador of Spain still owns the yellow jersey, crossing the line in the peloton along with his closest challenger by Andy Schleck of Luxembourg.

Armstrong acknowledged that his career was close to coming to an end. He had announced this month that it would be his final Tour de France.

Ishant then got Mathews as he nipped an away going delivery to be neatly taken by Laxman at second slip.

The hosts tightened their grip on the match in the post lunch session with Herath and Malinga proving quite a handful for the tired Indian bowlers.

Malinga, who hit Pragyan Ojha for two sixes, celebrated his maiden half century in Test cricket.

The gritty batsman finally fell when he scooped an Abhimanyu Mithun delivery into the waiting hands of Harbhajan at fine leg.

Earlier, in an apparent attempt to accelerate, newcomer Prasanna Jayawardene hammered Harbajan Singh to the midwicket for the first six of the match.

Making it an expensive over for Harbhajan, Prasanna swept a flighted delivery on middle stump to the midwicket boundary.

It was left to Mithun to bring to an end the dangerous looking batsman's innings.

Prasanna, who was looking to play it to the leg side after moving across the stump, missed the ball and got hit on his pads in the middle stump and the umpire had no hesitation in declaring him LBW. It was then Herath and Malinga who took centre stage with a some blistering shots which entertained the sparse crowd at the Galle International stadium.

After Malinga's dismissal, Muttiah Muralitharan walked in for his last Test appearance and was accorded a grand welcome with fireworks bursting all around.

In a touching gesture, the Indian players also greeted Muralitharan with a guard of honour as he stepped out to bat.

Sri Lanka: T Paranavitana c Dhoni b Ishant 111, T Dilshan c Dhoni b Mithun 25, K Sangakkara c Tendulkar b Sehwag 103, M Jayawardene lbw b Ishant 48, T Samaraweera lbw b Mithun 0, A Mathews c Laxman b Ishant 41, P Jayawardene lbw b Mithun 27, R Herath not out 80, L Malinga c Harbhajan b Mithun 64, M Muralitharan not out 5. Extras: 16. Total: 520 for 8. Fall of wicket: 55-1, 236-2, 259-3, 260-4, 322-5, 344-6, 393-7, 508-8. Bowling: Ishant Sharma 28-5-145-3, A Mithun 28-3-105-4, Harbhajan 30-4-98-0, P Ojha 28-1-115-0, V Sehwag 10-0-46-1.

India: G Gambhir lbw b Malinga 2, V Sehwag not out 85, R Dravid run out (Malinga ) 18, S Tendulkar lbw b Muralitharan 8, V Laxman not out 18.

Extras: 9. Total: 140 for 3. Fall of wickets: 2-1, 68-2, 101-3. Bowling: L Malinga 9-0-40-1, C Welegedara 4-0-34-0, R Herath 6.4-1-25-0, A Mathews 3-0-9-0, M Muralitharan 7-1-31-1.

Firecrackers went off in the stadium as Muttiah Muralitharan stepped out to bat in his swansong Test and players from both India and Sri Lanka also did their bit to make the spin wizard's farewell match a memorable affair.

The rain-marred match has risen in profile as it is Muralitharan's final Test at the end of which, he would bid adieu to his 18-year-old career.

The weathergods dampened the atmosphere on the first two days but when Muralitharan finally got a chance to come on the field to bat,

firecrackers went off in the stadium to salute the veteran off-spinner.

The emotional quotient rose further when the visiting Indian players, in a touching gesture, formed a guard of honour as Muralitharan stepped out, a rare sight for a number 10 batsman.

Muralitharan also got pats on his back from the Indians, ho tried to make the occasion special for the Lankan, just eight shy of touching the 800-wicket mark.

The warmth did not end at that and when the Indian innings began, it was the Sri Lankans who formed a guard of honour for their legendary teammate after stepping out to field.

India trounce France, pocket hockey series AGENCIES PARIS, JULY 20

Ace drag-flicker Sandeep Singh continued his goal-scoring spree as India thrashed France 6-0 in the second hockey Test and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series in Paris.

Sandeep starred for India, converting three penalty corners in the 12th, 37th and 47th minutes on Monday, while the other goal scorers for the visitors were captain Rajpal Singh (39th), Mohd Amir Khan (55th) and Hari Prasad (58th).

The Indians had earlier pipped the home team 4-3 in the first match at the French National Institute of Sports and Physical Education (INSEP) ground.

India will play the final inconsequential Test against France here tomorrow before leaving for Holland for the last leg of their European tour.

Unlike the series opener, India totally dominated the second Test yesterday, with quality ball control and possession.

Contrary to the result, the first half was little unattractive as the Indians managed just one goal. But they came back with firepower in the second session and scored goals at will to decimate the French.

Sandeep put India ahead in the 12th minute from the first of four penalty corners the visitors earned when Tushar Khandker was obstructed by France defender Nicolas Monnier.

Both the teams, however, missed two scoring opportunities in the opening period with Khandker and Rajpal guilty of shooting wide for the Indians while Frederic Soyez and Olivier Sanchez fumbling for France.

Two minutes into the second half, Sandeep increased the lead

sinking one past France goalkeeper Matthias Dierckens after Gurbaj Singh, Ravi Pal and Dharamvir Singh had done the spadework.

An unmarked Rajpal then made it 3-0 in the 39th minute after he was set up by Vikas Pillay.

France's misery did not end there as Sandeep shot home his third and India's fourth goal from a set piece in the 47th minute after Hari Prasad was obstructed inside the striking circle by rival team skipper Francois Scheefer.

As if that was not enough, Amir Khan found the back of the French net in the 55th minute with a deft reverse deflection after combining in a swift counter attack with Bharat Chikara.

India rounded off their tally three minutes later when Hari Prasad scored the sixth goal after Khandker, Vikas Pillay and Danish Mujtaba combined together to break through the French defence.

‘Tendulkar Opus’ to have Sachin’s blood in it AGENCIES LONDON, JULY 20

The publishers of Sachin Tendulkar's autobiography 'Tendulkar Opus' has decided to come out with a special edition of the book which will have the iconic batsman's blood on the signature page.

The "blood edition" of Tendulkar's autobiography, which will have pictures of his family not published earlier and thoughts about his career, will be released in February next year to coincide with the Cricket World Cup in the sub-continent.

The book, which will have 852 pages edged in gold leaf,

will be sold at a whopping USD 75,000. Only 10 copies of the book, which will weigh 37kg and measure half a metre square, will come out.

All the 10 copies have, however, been pre-ordered.

"The signature page will be mixed with Sachin's blood -- mixed into the paper pulp so it's a red resin. It is what it is -- you will have Sachin's blood on the page," publisher Kraken Media's chief executive Karl Fowler was quoted as saying in The Guardian.

"It's not everyone's cup of tea, it's not to everyone's taste and some may think it's a bit weird.

But the key thing here is that

Sachin Tendulkar to millions of people is a religious icon. And we thought how, in a publishing form, can you get as close to your god as possible?" said Fowler.

"We're publishing next February, in time for the cricket World Cup, which is being held in India. It's perfect timing.

He's never done an autobiography before and has a great story to tell."

Apart from his blood, Tendulkar has also been asked for a sample of his saliva which would be used to create his DNA profile and would be printed on a twometre gatefold in the book.

"What you'll be looking at is

Dean Jones didn’t tell me he was married: Ex-mistress AGENCIES LONDON, JULY 20

Dean Jones' ex-mistress has claimed that the former cricketer lied about his marital status when they began their decadelong 'on-and-off' affair, which has left his reputation in shreds.

Revealing her identity, international flight attendant and part-time model Kerri-Anne Hamilton said she tried to end the "secret affair" which began in 1998 and led to the birth of a child, Koby, after knowing

three months into their relationship that Jones was married.

"Back in 1998 it was a bit like we're in the dark ages; there was no google, no internet ... the only information I would get was from people I asked," said Hamilton from Sydney at Channel Nine Network's programme A Current Affair.

"I changed my phone number, I wouldn't take his calls, I did many many things to end it through the years but he just dangled the carrot," Hamilton

said in a paid interview, according to The Australian.

The affair began 12 years into Jones' 24-year marriage. In August last year, Hamilton gave birth to the child, but she denied the conception was planned.

"It couldn't be further from the truth. I was working as an international flight attendant - I was lucky to know what week we were in let alone anything to do with a makingbaby cycle," said Hamilton, now 35.

his genetic makeup," Fowler said.

All proceeds from the sale of the 10 copies will go to Tendulkar's charitable foundation to help build a school in Mumbai.

Kraken will also publish around 1,000 copies of a cheaper edition of the autobiography at USD 2,000-3,000.

Signed by Sachin, this edition will also be a half-metre square in size and will contain around 75 per cent previously unpublished material about the cricketing star, as well as his DNA profile -? but not his blood.

Kraken Media is also releasing a USD 200300 smaller edition of the book.

SPORTS

Pg18

GOA, Wednesday, 21 July, 2010

Vasco Club focus on youth

HERALD SPORTS REPORTER MAPUSA, JULY 20

Vasco Sports Club has finished the formalities of signing 17 players for the season and are in the process of signing another two. The club will also conduct a trial for 10 players from their U- 20 academy team which will be finalised soon.

Gavin Araujo will be the club’s coach-cum-manager.

Academy coach, Richard Hood has been promoted to assis-

tant coach of the senior team after completing his AFC "B" and UEFA "B" coaching licences recently.

Gavin aims for the club to finish fifth in this season’s Goa Pro League. He plans to strengthen his squad in the second half of the season with foreign players as they challenge in the I-league second division. "I am aiming for at least a fifth place finish behind the I-league clubs." stated Gavin.

Milagrio Medeira (gk).

Re m u s G o m e s , P r a j o t Naik, Agnelo Barreto, Queterio Pango and Shubankar Dey (defenders).

Jerose Oliveira, Menino Fernandes, Jose Colaco, Joel Sequeira, Savio Fernandes, Mario Crasto, Christofer B o rg e s , L a w r i e D a C o s t a and Sachin Gawas (midfielders).

Mangesh Borotekar, Joy Ferrao (forwards).

Friends Sporting Club triumph HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, JULY 20

Hosts Friends Sporting Club, Carambolim defeated Bela-Vista SC, Corlim 2-0 in the finals of Friends Sporting League Cup 2010 Soccer organised by Friends Sporting Club, Carambolim at Carambolim panchayat ground, Carambolim. Friends led 2-0 at half-time.

The rain-marred match, was devoid of good soccer. Benzy Gonsalves, Sahil Balpravesh and Nithesh Mistry excelled for Friends. Derryl D’Souza, Gaurish Vaigankar and Clyde Dias were excellent in midfield and Frankie Mascarenhas was dangerous in attack. Albino Sequeira, Savio Fernandes and Joseph Rodrigues were outstanding in defence for Bela-Vista with Rahul, Bela-Vista keeper bringing some superb saves.

Friends Sporting went 1-0 up midway in the first half when Friends captain Derryl D’souza scored off a solo run giving no chance to the rival keeper. Just a minute before half time Frankie Mascarenhas made it 20 when he scored off a defence splitting pass by Clyde Dias.

In the second session, the teams played a defence oriented game where Friends held the upper hand and came nearing

Friends Sporting Club alongwith Sister Guilhermina Monteiro, Franky Fernandes and Ulhas Birkodi.

scoring on a couple of occasions but failed.

In the match for third place, Sunshine SC, Carambolim defeated Small Boys Club, Carambolim 2-1. Bhagira put Small Boys ahead while Narayan equalised for Sunshine. At half time the score was 1-1.

Diniz D’Costa scored the match winner in the closing stages to give Sunshine the bronze medal.

Chief guest sister Guilhermina Monteiro, Headmistress of Jesus

and Mar y Sar vajanik High School, Carambolim gave away the prizes alongwith the guest of honour Franky Fernandes, social worker of Corlim.

Fo l l o w i n g p r i z e s w e r e awarded: Bronze - Sunshine SC. Silver - Bela-Vista SC. Gold Friends Sporting Club.

Following individual prizes were awarded: Best goalkeeper of the tournament - Agnelo Lobo of Friends SC. Best defender of tournament - Sahil Balpravesh of Friends SC. Best young player

Espanyol wins Joga contest

of the tournament - Suraj of Sunshine SC. Best forward of the tournament - Sabir of Bela Vista SC. Best veterans player of the tournament - Diniz D’Costa of Sunshine SC. Best midfielder of the tournament - Derryl D’Souza of Friends SC. Highest scorer of the tournament - Frankie Mascarenhas of Friends SC with Six goals.

The winners were awarded a Rs. 6,666 plus the trophy while the runners-up had to be content with Rs. 3,333

Denzil stars for Betalbatim HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, JULY 20

Champions Espanyol team - Neon D’Souza, Aldair Figueiredo, Royston Fernandes (captain), Dario Rodrigues, Russel D’Souza and Seby D’Souza (manager).

HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, JULY 20

Espanyol, Panjim defeated Young of Fatorda 4-3 in the finals of all-Goa Joga competition organised by Don Bosco Oratory in association with SpaceKraft Media Solutions at Don Bosco’s Oratory, here.

Espanyol consisted of Don Bosco Higher Secondary boys Neon D’Souza (captain), Aldair Figueiredo, Dario Rodrigues, Russel.

Dario Rodrigues, Neon scored two each for Espanyol while Milagres Madeira (2) and Santan Colaco scored for Young of Fatorda.

A total of 64 teams participated.

Joga, a Portuguese word which means keep playing is a sporting event which is played between two teams consisting of four players each. The rules have been adopted from futsal with a few modifications, said

Dennis Figueiredo of SpaceKraft Media Solutions.

Earlier, Espanyol beat St Ika 3-1(Aldair Figueiredo 2, Dario Rodrigues), Striking Vipers 3-1(Dario Rodrigues 2, Royston Fernandes) to enter the finals.

Dario Rodrigues scored 10 goals to be the top scorer.

Milagres Madeira (Young of Fatorda) was adjudged best player of the tournament.

House pats Steffi

BY HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JULY 20

The Goa Assembly on Tuesday congratulated athlete Steffi Cardozo for her exemplary achievement who has till date won 25 national medals in all categories.

St Cruz MLA, Victoria Fernan-

des, who moved the congratulatory motion said the people of Goa are truly proud of the tremendous success achieved

by Steffi. Besides 25 national medals, she has to her credit 20 West Zone and inter-State medals, said Fernandes and requested the government to take due note of Steffi’s achievement.

Tourism Minister Nilkanth Harlankar as well Sports Minister Babu Azgaonkar also spoke on the motion applauding Steffi.

GOA DIARY MPT football trials

VASCO (HR) --The Mormugao Port Sports Council will recruit football players on contract basis for the ensuing season 201011. Selection trials will be held from July 22 - 24, from 7.30a.m. at MPT ground, Baina, Vasco.

Players may report to MPSC team manager, Agnelo Fonseca or MPSC coach, Raymond Carvalho.

Trek to Parvad

PANJIM (HSD) – The Off Trail Adventure will organise a trek to Parvad on July 25. Participants will trek for 6 hours in total and will cover a distance of 14 km. Bus will leave from Mabai Hotel, Margao at 7 a.m. and Santa Monica cruise at 8 a.m. Details may be obtained from Bianca Dias on 9960054428.

Inter-school soccer at Duler

PANJIM (HSD) -- The Anthonian’s Past Pupils Association, Duler, will organise their annual one-day 10th All-Goa U-17 interschool Bro. Paulus Moritz (CMSF) football tournament (sevena-side) on July 25 at St. Anthony’s High School ground, Duler, Mapuca from 9.15 a.m. Schools may contact the association at St Anthony’s High School, Duler, Mapusa or get information on 99603213010. Entry forms may be collected from the school office. The last date to submit forms is July 23.

Badminton tourney at Campal

PANJIM (HSD) – The Shuttler's Club, Panjim will organise an All-Goa Major Ranking Badminton Tournament from July 26 - 28 July at indoor stadium, Campal, here. The events - Men and veterans 45+ (singles and doubles) and veterans 40+ singles. Those interested may submit entries latest by July 24 to Roy Athaide (indoor stadium, Panjim/Mapusa), Vinayak Kamat(indoor stadium, Margao) or Oasis Petrol Pump, near Don Bosco High School, Panjim.

A fine brace by striker Denzil Rodrigues helped Betalbatim Sporting Club to crush Sporting Club of Davorlim 4-1 to enter the semi-final of 6th Benaulim Super inter village tournament organised by United Club of Benaulim at St John Baptist ground, Dando, Benaulim on Tuesday. Betalbatim were leading 2-0 at half time.

Betalbatim were rewarded when Bonnie Fernandes bulged the net off a pass from Denzil Rodrigues.

Betalbatim doubled the lead midway in the opening session when hardworking midfielder Desmond Fernandes’ free kick crashed into the net keeping Sporting Club of Davorlim goalkeeper Joaquim Figuereido napping.

Davorlim put up a better display after change of ends and found success when striker Venson punished the rival goalkeeper with a deft placement after he received a through pass from William Niasso.

Betalbatim made repeated forays and Denzil Rodrigues was on a song as he fired home from close range.

Denzil Rodrigues rounded off the tally late in the second half to complete his brace off a Joe Max Fernandes pass.

Churchill Bros pip Goa HERALD SPORTS REPORTER MAPUSA, JULY 20

Churchill Brothers defeated the Goa Santosh Trophy team probables 2-1 in a friendly match at Chowgule college on Tuesday.

Joseph Lapira, who is currently on trial with Churchill Brothers scored the winning goal.

New York born, Joseph has played for the Irish National team against Ecuador and has spent the last two seasons playing in the Norwegian league.

He opted to play in Goa before making a decision on trying out for a US Major League team.

Meanwhile, the Goa probables took a little time to get into the game as it was their first friendly match together. They improved immensely in the second half piling on the pressure going forward. A concern for the team is defender John Dias of Dempo Sports Club who had to come out injured.

Loyola up HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, JULY 20

Loyola (Margao), St Stanislaus (Mumbai), M V NIketan (Belgaum), St Paul’s (Belgaum) moved into the semi-finals of Royceton Gomes memorial invitation cup football in Belgaum.

The tournament was inaugurated on Sunday.

Calangute inter-ward soccer: Cobravaddo v. Tivaiwado, Calangute Association ground, 4.45 p.m.

6th Benaulim Super Soccer semis: United Club of Benaulim v. Dramapur Sports Club, St John Baptist ground, Dando, Benaulim, 4.30 p.m.

Pg19

SPORTS GOA, Wednesday, 21 July, 2010

Kamal aims to shine at CWG, Asiad TT UNI NEW DELHI, JULY 20

After clinching two back-to back titles last month, India's top ranked paddler Achanta Sharath Kamal is confident of repeating his stupendous performance at the CWG and Asian Games, and win more gold medals for the country.

Kamal, currently ranked 76th in the world, won the US Open at Michigan followed by the Egypt Pro tour in Cairo last month and he believes that the wins came just at the right time which boosted his confidence. ''The two wins wouldn't have arrived at a much better time. I just needed them to boost my confidence and get back my rhythm ahead of the big Commonwealth Games,'' said Kamal on the sidelines of a felicitation ceremony here today.

By virtue of these two wins, Kamal is also hopeful to crack into the top 50 of the world rankings when the new list is released in the first week of August. ''I am hopeful that I can see

myself in the 40-50 bracket of the world ranking chart when the new rankings release.

Though both the tournaments are big wins for me, but I believe the victory at the Egypt Open had helped me to jump in the rankings,'' he said, adding that he hopes to crack into top 10 after the London Olympics.

Kamal though admitted that there would pressure upon him at the Commonwealth Games as he would be the defending champion, but added that the crowd support would be a positive factor for him.

He also said he has worked a lot on his fitness and speed since his disappointing show at the 2010 World Championships. ''This time the Commonwealth Games is at Delhi and I am really excited about the home support. Had it been held at some other place, the situation have been different. ''I have been training for the CWG since 2006 just after I won the gold in Melbourne and have improved a lot on my fitness and my back hand,

which is mostly a weak point among the Indians.” ''There would be pressure and expectations upon me to perform and win. The government of India who has been funding and supporting us would also want to see me win, but things may be other way around too, as I would be getting the crowd support.

Last time, it was in the Indian Pro tour when the whole stadium was cheering up for me. I hope it would be a supporting factor in my game,'' the top Indian paddler told UNI. Kamal, who is expected to be the second seed in the Delhi Games, said the Singaporeans would be the favourites and India would be following them in the seedings. ''Singaporeans would dominant in the Games and India

would take the second seat. I believe Nigeria aren't much different from the India paddlers. They would be at the third place.''

He also informed that he has been working on his game to tackle the 22-ranked Singaporean Gao Ning, to whom the Indian has lost a couple of times. ''(Gao) Ning would be a big challenge to come across. I have been working on my game and watching his games to tackle him. He has a different style in his game as he stands square and is good in handling the sides and the front, back as well.” ''Its really hard to beat him as he is quick and has powers in his returns. I am developing my speed and fine-tuning my techniques and movements to overcome the Singaporeans in

the Commonwealth Games,'' said Kamal, who wants to play more tournaments rather than selective events.

Kamal has defeated a few players ranked above him, which started since February in Qatar Open till the latest in Egypt Open but the Indian ace felt the victory against 34th ranked Patrick Baum of Germany in the last 16 stage as one of his memorable wins, which helped him to get back his confidence.

The Chennai-based paddler, however, rated this November Asian Games starting just after the CWG above the Delhi Games and said it would be a tough call. ''The Asians are the powerhouse in this sport. And the Games in China would witness much tougher and close matches compared to the Commonwealth Games as the best in the business would participate there,'' he stated.

India finished at the seventh place at the 2006 Asian Games and has made it to the quarters in the last two Games.

Doha Goans SC in Qatar revived

Kamal lavished praise on his Italian coach Massimo Costantini, who has been with the Indian team since March last year, and said he 'knows when to do what'. ''He (Massimo) has the knowledge of the game as he has been a player himself. He has been supporting the players a lot and knows when to do what. Under him, the team has improved a lot,'' he added.

Speaking about his team mates, Kamal said Subhajit Saha and A Amalraj, Madhurika Patkar and Mouma Das are some of the players who are performing well in the recent past and have good prospect in the CWG and the Asian Games. ''Saha has performed well in the US Open, Indian Open and jumped few places, Amal raj and Madhurika were also impressive and have taken a massive jump of 100 and 102 places respectively in world rankings. ''Mouma has the experience and can be a match winner for the team,'' he added.

Kamal, who would join

I owe captaincy success to Murali: Jayasuriya UNI GALLE, JULY 20

Doha Goans Sports Club revival and committee members - sitting (from left to right) Antonio Vaz, Winnie Gonsalves, Joe Avito, Ambrosio Dias, Lubino Soares, Gill Cardozo.

Standing Kevin D’Souza, Mario D’Costa, Paul D’Souza, Reggie Vaz, George Fernandes, Melwyn Barreto, Fidelis Miranda, Collin Fernandes, Diogo Rodrigues, Francis Denis, Paul J Fernandes, Mathew Estrocio, Richard Fernandes, Straus Dias, Mauricio Perera.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT DOHA, JULY 20

Doha Goans Sports Club, a prestigious Goan Club in Qatar which had ceased to function was revived following an open forum at conference hall, Doha Municipality Building, Doha, Qatar.

Convener, Antonio Vaz, in his opening address thanked the Qatar Government authorities, the ex-presidents and the committee members of various other clubs which existed then and over 200 members who attended the forum.

Vaz emphasized the need to revive the club for the welfare

Romario in Kolkata UNI KOLKATA, JULY 20

City Police Commissioner Gautam Mohan Chakraborty today had a tough time to keep crowd and media people away from invading a stage where World Cup winning Brazilian soccer hero Romario was present as the chief guest.

The city police chief at times became visibly frustrated when his words to the invading crowd and media people to remain at bay from the stage and maintain sanity went nearly in vain.

Romario, who was here to present prizes to the winners and loosers of Friendship Cup final, organised by Kolkata Police with sponsorship from Coca Cola, was however amused at the people's response to see him.

Romario said he was amazed to see how people of the city responded to a soccer match as the Brazil's 1994's World Cup was here to host a 14-episode TV reality show on football, ''The Match'' along with compatriot Branco.

Romario said he was happy to see how people here were fond of soccer and appreciated their enthusiasm in the game of football, the most popular game on earth.

The Friendship Cup, recorded in the Limca Books of Records, had 462 teams participation in 2010 and final held between Mohun Bagan Fans club and Amora Sobai at Police ground.

After the scheduled time ended in draw and penalty shootout did not yield any result, the fate was decided by the spin of coin and Mohun Bagan Fans Club won it.

The winners and losers shared Rs 40,000 each.

of the Goan community in Qatar including the youth who excel in various social, cultural and sports arenas.

President, Ambrosio Dias, in his speech said: “Today, let us all be honest and ask ourselves - do we Goans truly have one Goan Club for the welfare of our Goan community in the State of Qatar”?

Having recalled the great and glorious good times of the past, the result of sincere and dedicated hard work of many Goans in Qatar, Dias pointed out that the involvement and activities of the Goan community in Qatar

had slowly come to a halt and had to be revived.

Ambrosio mentioned the names of over 20 Goans who had agreed to become the Doha Goans Sports Club revival team by contributing additional funds for the creation of an operating cash flow for the club.

The following names were then approved unanimously: Chairman- Avito Carvalho. Vicepresident Lubino Soares. Gen. secretary -George Fernandes.

P.R.O and Director of Social & Cultural Affairs Maurico Pereira.

Director of sports Collin Fernandes. Financial Controller Gill Car-

Milagres oust Candolim HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, JULY 20

Milagres Sports Club, Mapusa overcame a strong challenge from Candolim Sports Club 2-1 to move into the semi- finals of Vagator Parish Youth Trophy Inter-Village football tournament organised by Vagator Parish Youth at Ozrant ground, Vagator on Tuesday.

Milagres began on a promising note and forged ahead in t h e 1 6 t h m i n u t e t h ro u g h Shailesh Misquin off Alvito Fernandes. Down by a goal, Candolim fought back and restored parity in the 20th minute

through Joelith Simoes off a deflection from Milagres defender beating the keeper Wilbur Menezes. Milagres could have taken the lead but Krishna Chouge failed to score.

Changing over, the teams fought well to outdo the other but missed a couple of scoring opportunities. Krishna Chouge finally managed to score in the 50th minute after a combined move by Shailesh Misquin and Jolene Fernandes. Down 2-1, Candolim tried their level best to find the equaliser but a goal eluded them till the final whistle.

Wilred Leisure in semis HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, JULY 20

Wilred Leisure Sports Club, Curtorim toyed with Nuvem Sports Club 3-0 on their way to the semi-finals of Muriel Faleiro memorial inter-village football tournament organised by Parish Youth, Nuvem at church ground, Nuvem on Tuesday. Wilred led 2-0 at half time.

Wilred took the lead when midfielder Savio Fernandes beat the Nuvem goalkeeper with a rasping drive after he picked up

a measured through pass from Peter Pereira.

Wilred increased their tally midway in the opening session when Savio Fernandes fired home off a pass from Sertorio Monteiro.

Wilred slackened their pace midway in the second half but did not lose the appetite for a goal with midfielder Peter Pereira droving the last nail into the Nuvem coffin.

Wilred will meet Betalbatim Sporting Club.

Ribery quizzed in sex probe AP PARIS, JULY 20

France players Franck Ribery and Karim Benzema were detained for questioning by police officials on Tuesday as part of an investigation into an alleged prostitution ring.

A police official who spoke on condition of anonymity because she was not authorised to speak to the media told The Associated Press the players were being questioned by a special prostitution brigade in Paris at the request of an investigating magistrate.

dozo. General coordinator Kevin D’Souza. Melwin Barreto and Antonio J. Vaz , Mathew Estrocio advisors. Paul Fernandes Cultural Secretary. These will form the core committee to run the affairs of the club for six months.

Ambrosio assured that the general body meeting would be held during January 2011 to elect a new committee.

The President praised Convenor Antonio for his courage, hard work and dedication for the revival movement of the club in Qatar.

The open forum concluded with a game of bingo. Prizes

were donated by Pheonix Co, Mathew Estrocio, Reggie Vaz, Caitan Fernandes, Vincy D’Costa and Henry Fernandes. Kevin D’Souza and Anthony Carvalho were among the other sponsors.

The programme was compared by Paul Fernandes. Mauricio Pereira, PRO, Director for social and cultural affairs, proposed the vote of thanks. The membership of the club is open to all Goans living in Qatar.

City dismiss Drogba talks claim

Sunil Chhetri has been knocking on the doors of global football for a while now. The Indian striker, who has impressed one and all with his abilities, was offered a trial stint with Coventry City, which is a second division English club.

In fact, he could have made it to English Championship club Queens Park Rangers last year, had he not been denied a work permit by the British government.

However, he was destined to make it to USA's Major League soccer, where he made his debut for Kansas City Wizards against Colorado Rapids.

He had a disappointing start to the MLS, though, as he failed to score and was shown a yellow card for a reckless tackle.

But things have changed since then and he is set to play one of the biggest matches of his life.

Chhetri looks all set to play against Manchester United, and if he does that, he will be the first Indian to play against the

AFP MANCHESTER, JULY 20

Claims by Didier Drogba’s agent that Manchester City had held talks about signing the Chelsea superstar were dismissed out of hand by a City spokesman on Tuesday.

Yet City, who have spent around 60 million pounds on Jerome Boateng, David Silva and Yaya Toure this summer, insisted there was no truth in Seydi's remarks.

A City spokesperson said: "There has been absolutely no contact.

We have not spoken to him and there is no foundation to this."

Earlier, Chelsea's ace striker Didier Drogba's agent has revealed that he is in talks with Manchester City over a 20 million pound move.

Thierno Seydi admitted that he had spoken directly to City about the 32-year-old Chelsea striker.

Former Sri Lankan skipper Sanath Jayasuriya gave credit for his successful stint as captain to soon to be retired Muttiah Muarlitharan.

Jayasuriya, one of the most successful captains of Sri Lanka, said he was fortunate to have Murali, the world's highest wicket taker, in his team. ''I have a good record as a Sri Lankan captain, and the main reason for that, I think, is that I was fortunate that Murali was at his peak during the four years I captained the side'' Jayasuriya was quoted as saying by the 'Daily Mirror'.

Jayasuriya led the Island nation to 18 wins in the 38 Tests he captained. Murali contributed hugely to that track record, featuring in 17 of those 18 triumphs.

In all, the spin wizard claimed 230 wickets at an average of 20.22, well below his career aggregate of 22.71, in the 35 Tests he played under Jayasuriya. During these four years, he earned 20 five-wicket hauls and nine ten-wicket match collections. ''Murali is a great character,'' Jayasuriya said.

Maria Rebello is set to make history this Sunday by becoming the first woman referee to supervise a match in the National championships for the Santosh Trophy.

Never before in Indian football has a woman referee been assigned to officiate in a senior National-level men’s match. At best, they were either deputed to do junior tournaments or the women’s National championships.

Bentla D’Coth, another woman referee, was assigned a Santosh Trophy match in Kerala a few years ago but she had only been the fourth official.

''There is never a dull moment when he is around. He will keep all of us going, cracking jokes and giving insights on basically anything. He is also very positive, hardly gets into a negative mentality and basically it is fun when he is around. He is a very genuine guy as well, and the work he did after the tsunami has been very much appreciated by everyone,'' he added.

Jayasuriya and Murali spent a long time together as their careers ran parallel. Reminiscing

those times, Jayasuriya said, ''Our careers ran parallel. The hard times and the good times we went through together.

Going on to win the World Cup in 1996 was the pinnacle.'' ''I also remember the Oval Test with great fondness, when we beat England in England for the first time,'' the Sri Lankan great recalled. ''We both played a crucial part in our team's success. Murali got 16 wickets in that Test, and I got a double hundred. That victory is a very special moment along with winning the World Cup.'' Jayasuriya (41) also remembered the day when Murali was called for chucking in Australia and the way the then Sri Lankan captain Arjuna Ranatunga fought for him. ''Murali owes a lot to Arjuna for the way he defended him, and he's been grateful to Arjuna ever since,'' Jayasuriya noted.

He also praised Arjuna for his stance over the issue. ''When he was called for throwing in 1998 in Australia, I was the vice-captain of the side. Some of the measures Arjuna took to defend him will be hard to match,'' Jayasuriya said.

Chhetri set to play against Man Utd AGENCIES KANSAS CITY, JULY 20

Red Devils.

Wizards President Robb Heineman on Sunday confirmed Chhetri's participation against the Red Devils on July 25.

If it comes to pass, he will be pitted against the likes of Wayne Rooney, Nani, Fabio and Rafael.

For a player who never wanted to be a footballer in the first place, it's a significant achievement, after the likes of Bhaichung Bhutia and Mo hammed Salim, to play in professional league.

Indian footballers have been slowly making their mark at the international level, with defender Gourmangi Singh also getting a trial stint with Australian ALeague Melbourne Heart FC. Besides this, striker NP Pradeep and midfielder Steven Dias too have received offers from various Malaysian clubs.

While Salim was the first India footballer to join a professional football club, with the Celtic FC in the 1936-37 season, Bhutia followed with a stint at Bury FC in 1999.

Though one can say that the

Ref Maria set to script history AGENCIES NEW DELHI, JULY 20

the team who are training in Patiala, today, said he would participate in the China Open next week besides attending 15-day training programme there to work on his speed before the Commonwealth Games.

Maria, 38, however, is different. Already a FIFA referee, the former international from Goa has per formed creditably enough for the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to seriously consider including her on their elite panel.

“I am grateful to the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) for providing me with the unique chance of supervising a Santosh Trophy match,” stated Maria.

“There are three Santosh Trophy matches in Kolkata on Sunday. I am likely to referee in one of them,” said Maria.

The former midfielder, who was known for her good ball control, said she is not nervous before her big assignment.

“There is no extra pressure on me for doing men’s matches.

I have done a number of matches in the Goan League. Of course, I never got a chance to supervise a Goa Professional League match.”

The Sunday’s Santosh Trophy match could also turn out to be the stepping stone for Maria in her bid for a place on the elite AFC panel.

An examiner from the Asian body is expected to fly down to Kolkata on Sunday to assess the Goan girl for the coveted job.

“When I was a player, I excelled and played for India and now as a referee too, I expect to reach the top,” said a determined Maria.

likes of Bhutias and Salims had limited opportunities, Chhetri has made the most of the opportunities that came his way.

The 25-year-old started his football career playing for school teams and then for his local club, City Club.

Since then, he has represented I-League clubs Mohun Bagan, East Bengal Club and JCT FC. A l -

though he had a forgettable Bagan season, where the club finished at the bottom half of the league table, in the next three seas o n s with the JCT Phagwara he scored 20 goals, helping JCT finish second in the league.

The performance earned him the Player of the Year award. Afterwards he played for East Bengal and scored seven goals in a season where they finished sixth.

Curerently with Dempo SC, Chhteri's rise to stardom came in the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup, where he scored a hat-trick in the final against Tajikistan. He has been a consistent performer at the international level, playing key roles in the Nehru Cup, SAFF championship and AFC Challenge Cup. In the 2009 Nehru Cup, he even scored one of the crucial penalties which helped India retain the Nehru Cup. And with the Indian team training in Portugal and getting exposure, things are looking bright for Indian football.