24 FEB,2011 HERALD PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD

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Sports: Ponting reprimanded over TV smash Pg 16 Committee—a group of men who individually can do nothing but as a group decide that nothing can be done.

—Fred Allen

IN BRIEF Maoists release junior engineer Abducted junior engineer Pabitra Majhi was freed today

by Maoists in Orissa after a seven day ordeal but release of Malkangiri District Collector R V Krishna was clouded in uncertainty with the rebels setting a new condition. the Maoists made a fresh demand tonight for immediate release of five key Naxals in return for the freedom of Krishna. — (PTI)

Cong leaders flay Ramdev Congress leaders today attacked baba Ramdev asking him to come clean on the source offunding for his activities before targeting their party on the issue of blackmoney while the bJP defended the yoga guru.

Ramdev said he will form a party in June to fight “corruption which had become widespread in the country”.

— (PTI)

Business: Assocham for phased ban on iron ore export Pg 13

Bhanot, Verma arrested for CWG irregularities PTI NEW DELHI, FEb 23

Widening its net in the Commonswealth Games (CWG) scam probe, the Central bureau of Investigation (CbI) today arrested two closest aides of sacked Games Organising Commitee Chairman Suresh Kalmadi—former Secretary General Lalit bhanot and Director General V K Verma—taking to nine the total number of arrests in various cases.

The high profile bhanot, considered Kalmadi’s right hand man, and Verma were arrested in connection with alleged irregularities in the Rs 107 crore deal inked with a Swiss timing firm— the first arrests in this case.

Deputy Inspector General of CbI, bineeta Thakur told reporters that the two had been arrested and would be produced before a designated court tomorrow.

The arrests were in connection with the investigations being carried out by the agency in a case registered for procuring timing, scoring and results (TSR)

systems at exorbitant rates of Rs 107 crore.

To a q u e s t i o n w h e t h e r Kalmadi would also be arrested, she said “Let us wait and see.

Its all a matter of investigations and we cannot say anything right now.”

The two officers had abused their official position and entered into a criminal conspiracy with the foreign firm and other unknown persons “to cheat the government in awarding contract to the said company for acquiring TSR system at exorbitant rates of Rs 107 crore,” Thakur said. bhanot and Verma were earlier called for questioning at the CbI headquarters here.

Libyan minister resigns PTI CAIRO, FEB 23

Libyan Interior Minister Abdel Fatah Yunes and a top aide of Moammar Gaddafi’s powerful son Saif resigned today, the latest to disown the regime of the defiant leader whose gunmen clamped down capital Tripoli.

As Gaddafi vowed to crush unprecedented protests against his 41-year rule despite global demands for an end to violence, Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini claimed that the crackdown has killed as many as 1,000 people and split Libya.

With much of the east said to be under control of the protesters, they claimed new gains in cities and towns closer to the heart of Gaddafi’s regime in the capital.

4 cops suspended for duty laxity HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEb 23

Acting swiftly on media reports and evidence showcasing negligence on part of Goa Police during escort duties, the department on Wednesday suspended four constables attached to its Escort Cell for the easy escape of an undertrial from a moving van and in another incident for allowing an undertrial the privilege of an ice-cream treat.

Police spokesperson Superintendent of Police (Special

branch) Atmaram Deshpande told reporters that police constables – Gaurish Pednekar and Sadanand Malik — were suspended after notorious gangster Michael Fernandes escaped from judicial custody while on his way for medical check up at Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) at bambolim.

Fernandes jumped from the window of the moving police escort vehicle – a Swaraj Mazda bus (GA-01-G-2037) near the Chicalim junction on Tuesday

Stargazers will get to see galaxy in 3D

Planetarium at Miramar soon

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEb 23

Stargazers will be able to sit next to the Miramar beach and enjoy the view of the galaxy in a 3-D digital planetarium within the next six to eight months.

Goa Science Centre at Miramar is constructing a 3-D planetarium costing Rs 76 lakh in its premises with a seating capacity for 50 people.

GSC’s project coordinator V N Joshi said that the planetarium will take shape with finances from the State and Central governments on 50:50 per cent basis. “There will be regular sky shows in the planetarium,” he said.

The centre attracts around one lakh visitors annually. Joshi said that last year, 96,500 people, most of whom were students, visited the complex.

He said the centre can become a major tourist attraction but the kind of guests that come

to Goa are not interested in visiting places like a science centre. “but still, we are trying our level best to advertise the place through tour operators,” he mentioned.

Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) has included GSC as a tourist attraction in its brochure.

Joshi said the response from locals has been good. These drop in to see the various exhibits on display here, he mentioned and added, “The centre adds at least five to six new exhibits to its menu every year.”

He said the aim of the centre was to make people understand science through experiments.

“People should involve themselves in science to understand it,” Joshi noted.

“In other museums you are not allowed to touch the exhibits, but here you can interact with the exhibits to understand and feel real science,” he observed.

evening. The jailbird fled on a Yamaha motorcycle (GA-07-H1429), whose driver was following the bus.

Fernandes who had confessed to accepting ‘supari’ from one Joe boy to kill Home Minister Ravi Naik’s son Roy and harm his family has been accused in 22 other cases of thefts, robberies and dacoities in Goa and Maharashtra.

“We have launched intense manhunt to trace Fernandes.

Our counterparts have been in-

formed about the escape,” Deshpande said.

In the other case, two police constables – Pradeep Patil and Suraj Gaonkar – were placed under suspension for allowing an under trial balesh Desai to enjoy an ice-cream in a parlour near Goa Shipyard Limited at Vaddem-Vasco. Very little did the cops know that Herald and a TV channel were on their trail watching the complete dereliction of duty.

(Continued on page 11)

(air surcharge Rs 2.00) pages 16+4

Goa’s Heartbeat: Rift between the Khans gets wider Pg 4

Mickky’s threat turns out to be damp squib Says he isn’t interested in cabinet post HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEb 23

A day after he went hammer and tongs saying the NCP is discussing withdrawing support to the Digambar Kamat ministry, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislator Mickky today did a complete volte-face stating he isn’t interested in a cabinet berth.

Pacheco, who had there rounds of meeting with NCP supremo Sharad Pawar in Delhi, had told reporters in a telephonic conversation that the NCP will take a final view Wednesday on whether to continue support to the Congress led government after the chief minister declined to accept their demand for dropping two ministers of the Sharad Pawar-led party and inducting him (Pacheco) into the cabinet.

Af ter meeting Pawar on Wednesday, Pacheco said he has conveyed his disinterest in the cabinet berth.

“I have conveyed my sentiment to the party high command and would instead continue working for the party in the State,” Pacheco told reporters from Delhi.

Pacheco, who had threatened to quit the party demanding his induction in the cabinet, earlier this month further continued, “I have great confidence in my leaders and want to work for the party in Goa.”

Pawar wants him back, but favours status quo HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEb 23

Contrar y to statements made by Mickky Pacheco on his induction into the Cabinet, top sources in Delhi have told Herald that the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) does not want to disturb the present set-up.

Sources in the party at Delhi informed Herald that NCP Supremo Sharad Pawar wants Pacheco back in the ministry but not at a huge cost.

“Pawar wants to undo the wrong done to him last year when he was caught in a controversy,” sources close to the Union agriculture (Continued on page 11)

Pacheco was camping in Delhi since the last three days and held two rounds of talks with Pawar over the Goa issue.

Few of the State executive committee members also accompanied the former Goa tourism minister.

The State executive earlier had threatened to resign enmasse demanding ministerial position to Pacheco, who had to quit after his name cropped up in a murder case.

JPC expands, to now have 30 members PTI NEW DELHI, FEb 23

The opposition forced the government to accept its demand for a bigger joint parliamentary committee into the 2G scam which will now be a 30-member body accommodating small parties and is evenly balanced between the rival sides.

The committee would have 20 members from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha, instead of 21—15 from the LS and 6 from RS—as was earlier believed to be.

The ruling (UPA) has managed to secure 15 members by projecting the whole alliance as a group. While bJP is expected to have six members, the Janata Dal (United), which is part of the NDA two members.

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Man sacrifices life to save grandson HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARCEL, FEB 23

A 75-year-old man from Karwar sacrificed his life to save his grandson in a mishap at a religious event in Mardol on Tuesday night.

According to Ponda Police, P undalik Vengurlekar got crushed under the wheels of the Rath, in a bid to save his grandson.

While the procession was underway, Pundalik’s grandson suddenly jumped in front of the Rath. In a bid to save his grandson from getting hurt, Pundalik also jumped under the Rath, police said.

Though the grandson was lucky to escape unhurt, Pundalik sustained grievous injuries in the mishap. He was rushed to the GMC, Bambolim, where he breathed his last on Wednesday morning.

Ornaments stolen HERALD CORRESPONDENT BICHOLIM, FEB 23

Gold ornaments worth Rs 90,000 were stolen from a parked car at Harvalem-Sanquelim on Wednesday.

According to Bicholim Police, one Rohidas Avkhale from VirdiSanquelim who is working at Sesa Goa had parked his vehicle at Harvalem-Sanquelim and went to perform some religious ceremony.

However, when Rohidas returned after about two hours, he found the window of his car (GA-01-J-1453) smashed and two bangles and a necklace, all worth Rs 90,000 stolen from the car.

Bicholim police have registered a case under Section 379 IPC and ASI Rajaram Gaonkar is investigating the case.

Fake notes: Margao bank lodges plaint HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 23

A leading city-based private bank has complained to the Margao police that the bank cashier spotted fake currency notes amounting to Rs 46,000.

The currency notes were in the denomination of Rs 1000, Rs 500 and Rs 100.

Police said the bank found 14 counterfeit notes of Rs 1000, 64 notes of Rs 500 and six notes of Rs 100.

The Margao police have registered a case against unknown persons for circulating fake currency notes in the market.

Further investigations are on.

BATTLE FOR PANJIM WARD XVII

This migrant-inhabited ward lacks sanitation facilities HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

Bhatlem-Odlem Bhat, Ward XVII of the Corporation of the City of Panjim (CCP) appears shabby when compared with other parts of the city.

Mostly inhabited by migrants for availability of affordable accommodations sans sanitary facilities, this ward has remained neglected despite being with the ruling panel.

Locals in this ward started a side business by renting any available spare corner in the house.

In fact, one of the main problems facing this ward with a voter population of 1035 is lack of sanitary facilities.

“But who cares?” says one of the tenants at ChincholemBhatlem who have to walk a kilometer to use public toilet.

Her landlord has rented twentytwo ram-shackled rooms for monthly rent between Rs 1,000 and Rs 2,000 for each room.

Tenants are thus compelled to use fallow paddy fields along main road to answer nature’s call.

“We only have paddy fields here,” promptly tells one outspoken girl as adults remain tight-lipped about their condition.

The migrant-inhabited Ward No 17 of the CCP.

“Ironically, a toilet which was being built for this area about a year ago is yet to be completed and nobody seems to be bothered as to why it has remained incomplete,” she says.

“A new toilet and bathroom is being built but our enquires revealed that it is being funded

by Taleigao MLA and it’s not for the tenants but for the landlady,

she further states.

Another local who has rented four rooms of her house, too does not have any sanitary facilities. In fact, she does not have any toilet in her house.

“We have constructed one for us but it is not operational as yet,” she further disclosed.

Outgoing corporator Uday Madkaikar who was excluded

Photo by Sachin Ambdoskar

from Babush’s panel, recently, was not available for comments.

Taleigao MLA dropped Madkaikar for his alleged role in the market scam and brought in Prajot Santosh Vaigankar to contest from ward XVII. Madkaikar who was once considered to be confidant of Taleigao MLA, is now contesting as an independent.

Convention centre an ‘illogical’ proposal: Makhija HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

Kabir Pinto Makhija, a civil engineer by profession, who is contesting the Corporation of the City of Panjim (CCP) polls from ward number 11, feels that the convention centre planned next to Inox multiplex was an “illogical” proposal.

Makhija, who has been vocal about CCP’s lethargy towards Campal residents, was the first to oppose the convention centre when the Chief Minister Digambar Kamat spoke about the idea. “ Tr a f f i c a l o n g t h e b u s y Dayanand Bandodkar road has increased hundred fold. Adding another infrastructure project on this busy street will mess up the area further,” Makhija told Herald.

The corporator is contesting on Taleigao MLA Babush Monserrate’s panel from this ward.

Herald had erroneously portrayed Sadanand Thakur as the candidate for this ward backed

by Babush.

Makhija is a member of Campal Residents Association and also of Panjim Citizens Action Committee, both initiatives aimed at a better city.

Justifying his opposition to the convention centre, Makhija maintained there were already

four theatres in the Inox multiplex. “Where is the need for another convention centre with 2,000 sitting capacity?

The place where the centre is planned is a proper parking lot. If that lot is occupied than the vehicles will spill over on the road and Campal will be an obvious choice,” he explained.

Makhija also has reservations over the way exhibitions are mushrooming at Kala Academy, Campal Parade ground, Bandodkar ground and Panjim Gymkhana. These events choke the traffic in the locality.

During expos at these locations Campal residents have to bear the brunt of parking, he asserted.

The candidate said once elected solving the issue of traffic and parking will be his priority. I will also the oppose convention centre and this subject is the focus of my campaign, he mentioned and added, ““Drainage is another issue that has been troubling the locals and I will have to work on this on a war-footing.”

With his experience in social movements like protests against dumping of garbage at Campal, Makhija intends to make a mark.

Stop mining or face water crisis, says Green HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 23

Environmentalist Ramesh Gauns has said that rampant mining activity along the countryside would trigger a water crisis in the state in the not too distant future.

In his presentation on the future of water in Goa, Gauns said that the issue before the Goan people and the political lot is simple –either stop mining activity or face severe water problem in the future.

“The political class has to pay attention to the water requirements of the common man. All is not well with illegal mining activities carried out right in the water basin of the River Khandepar and at the Selaulim Dam”, he said, while making his presentation at the Creatures of the Earth – a dance-theatre performance at the Multipurpose high school, Borda organized by SPACE (Society for Performing Arts, Culture and Education).

“The Selaulim dam meets 55 per cent of the total water re-

Public prosecutors, cops review acquittals in South HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 23

This may nor may not in any way connected to the acquittal of alleged serial killer Mahanand Naik in the murder cases.

But, certainly, public prosecutors and senior police officers from South Goa had an interaction on Wednesday to review the number of criminal cases ending in acquittals in the district in recent times.

Public Prosecutors Sarojini Sardinha, Asha Arsekar and Bhanudas Gaonkar were huddled with the district police chief Allan De Sa, DySPs, including Margao Sub-Divisional Police Officers and the incharge of police stations from the district.

“There was nothing new in the interaction. In fact, we the received instructions to have such a meeting every month”, informed DySP Umesh Gaonkar.

He said the meeting discussed on the various aspects of cases ending in acquittals and the need to plug the loopholes, if any.

Replying to a question, DySP Gaonkar said these meetings will provide an opportunity to the prosecution as well as the investigating officer to do a postmortem on the acquittals and the flaws that led to the acquittal.

“The exercise will help in making corrections via the postmortem of the criminal cases”, he said, adding that the two sides will discuss specific criminal cases which have ended in acquittals.

Sources in the know said there has been an increase in the number of acquittals in criminal cases in recent times, with the government suggesting close coordination interactions between the investigating officers and the prosecutors to arrest the disturbing trend.

quirements of the state. Sadly, around 13 illegal mines are in operation in the dam today. If the forest cover of Sanguem taluka is destroyed by the mining operations, where will the water come from. Similarly, Khandepar river provides meets 30 per cent of the state’s water requirements, but around 21 mining quarries are operating within one kilometer from the river basin”, he added.

Gauns said if the present trend continues, Goa’s water supply will be adversely affected in a big way within the next few years.

“The 2006-07 Economic Survey report has called for commissioning of the Tillari project to meet the water requirements as the government taps run dry affecting water supply to the tourism industry. This is a sad state of affairs as Goa receives 120 inches of annual rainfall and is blessed with nine major rivers.

Goa will witness a tragic scenario if these rivers and other tributaries are hit by the mining

activities.

He lamented that the Water Resources has till date not carried out a detailed survey on the ground water scenario. “The department have boasted of having completed the survey, but our information reveals that the survey has not conducted in many of the talukas”, he claimed.

Earlier, the dance-theatre performance on “Creatures of the Earth” conveyed a message on life with water and life without water; Life in harmony with nature and the consequences of disharmony between man and nature.

The performance emphasized the undeniable dependence of human beings on water, through vocals and visual imagery, woven into one. The cast has performed at 20 venues across Goa so far. The performance is part of an Environmental Awareness Program through theatre and is supported by the Department of Science, Technology and Education.

Participants at the dance-theatre performance at the Multipurpose High School, Borda on Wednesday.

Photo by Santosh Mirajkar

Dy Collector told to probe into contamination of Comba wells HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 23

District Collector, South G P Naik on Wednesday directed Deputy Collector, Margao Johnson Fernandes to conduct a detailed probe into the contamination of drinking wells in the Comba locality of the city before initiating action against the polluters.

The directions came after Margao Municipal Chairperson Sushila Naik called on the District Collector seeking early action in the matter after the Goa Pollution Control Board confirmed of pollution of the wells by oily substance such as grease and oil.

The District Collector told Herald that the wells in questions, besides the water nullah

passing through the locality will be desilted first in a bid to ascertain the source of pollution.

“The district administration had conducted a similar exercise in Velsao and Chicalim which had helped to ascertain the source of pollution”, he said, adding that action would be initiated against the perpetrators after completion of this exercise.

While the authorities are bracing up to conduct a probe into the mysterious seepage of the oily substance in the drinking wells, petrol pumps located on the higher side of the city and a servicing stations are likely to come under the scanner of the inquiry officer.

Residents of Comba had earlier this month spotted oily sub-

stance in the drinking water wells and their worst fears have now been confirmed by the report of the Goa State Pollution Control Board.

The MMC Chairperson informed that the Comba locality had experienced contamination of some drinking water wells more than a decade and half.

“The petrol pumps have underground storage tanks. Whether the oily substance have come from the tanks due to seepage or due to discharge of effluents from servicing centres needs to be probed”, she added.

Says the district collector: “We will leave nothing to chance. All possible angles will be probed into by the inquiry officer”.

Tigers on the prowl – tread with care

Wildlife census report from Dehardun awaited HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

Forest Department officials have asked villagers of Charavane in Sattari on Goa-Karnataka border to be cautious while venturing in the forest reportedly after a tiger killed a buffalo in the area.

Deputy Conser vator of Forests (Wildlife) D N F Carvalho has said that the villagers have been asked not to set-up any trap or snares in the locality. We have asked them to be extra cautious and not to take the risk of venturing into the forest, he added.

Charavane, a village on Goa’s border within the dense Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, reported a

tiger attack on a buffalo of one Mano Phale earlier this month.

Forest officials said villagers of Charavane often venture into neighbouring Karnataka to graze their cattle. The department has warned tigers were roaming around in the area and they don’t have a permanent abode.

Carvalho mentioned there could be one or two tigers in the area. “These have no fixed location or abode but are in and out of wildlife abounding in both Karnataka and Goa. The State government finds itself in a piquant situation as it is yet to rehabilitate Charavane villagers who stay in the heart of the sanctuary. Gov-

ernment is yet to settle their rights as Mhadei is a notified sanctuary.

For the Phale family, which is completely dependent on the forest for their living, the buffalo killings have come as a jolt. The family lost three buffaloes to tiger attacks at the beginning of this month.

Meanwhile, the department is yet to receive the wildlife census report from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun.

The census, which was conducted in April 2010, was significant as it had identified pugmarks of the big cat indicating its presence.

Carvalho said reminders have been sent to WII.

Old enclosures at Bondla to go HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

The State Forest Department in its annual report on Bondla Zoo has planned demolition of old enclosures for animals as part of upgradation work.

The report states a number of enclosures constructed earlier have become old and do not conform to the modern concept of zoo design. Secondly, these enclosures do not meet the biological need of the species housed in them.

It states some of the enclosures will be completely demolished and a few others modified to meet the specifications recommended in the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 1992.

These rules and further guidelines of Central Zoo Authority (CZA) will be religiously followed while designing new enclosures or modifying the existing ones.

The report has said that certain species are highly specific in respect of their food and shelter. “Housing in a few cases will need more space for the naturalistic display as well as to meet their behavioural needs,” it adds.

n The report states a number of enclosures constructed earlier have become old and do not conform to the modern concept of zoo design. Secondly, these enclosures do not meet the biological need of the species housed in them.

The Forest Department has decided that in order to ensure broad taxonomic display, the area which was earlier kept for fruit orchard will be used for herbivores, primates and birds, besides new zoo entrants.

The upgradation of the zoo, in coming ten years from 200910 to 2018-19, has been based on the topography of the site, water availability, vegetation, climate, visitors profile, conservation, education and research needs and convenience of management.

Forest officials said that the proposal has been prepared section-wise.

‘Science Fiesta’ from today HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

Goa Science Centre is all set to organise eighth edition of fiveday-long ‘Science Fiesta’ beginning from Februar y 24 at Miramar.

As a part of the National Science Day, to be celebrated on February 28, the Goa Science Centre in collaboration with the Department of Science, Technology and Environment has organised the Science festival, which would be attended by various scientific and research institutions from Goa and Mumbai.

“It’s basically an educational programme, where we give an opportunity to general visitors and school students to learn about various research institutes and their activities and also to interact with various scientists,” V N Joshi, Project Coordinator, Goa Science Centre, told reporters.

Joshi said the Science Fiesta is a common platform for all institutions to portray their efforts in the development of the nation and bring their research closer to the public.

The Centre has been organising this festival since 2003.

Besides being students’ participation from various schools and colleges, the fiesta will also witness the participation of 13 institutions from Goa and Mumbai -National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research (NCAOR), Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR), Goa University, Department of Science, Technology and Environment, Goa Energy Development Agency (GEDA), Forest Department, Worldwide Fund for Nature, Department of Atomic Energy, Mumbai, Petroleum Conservation and Research Association, Mumbai, and Third Wave Scientific Products, Pune.

The festival will have wide range of activities like exhibitions, demonstrations, lectures, fun fair, science drama, cultural programmes, quiz competitions, astronomy slide shows, sky observations and many other science related programmes.

The fiesta will be inaugurated on Thursday by Dr Simon De Souza, Chairman, Goa State Pollution Control Board.

The formal function will be also attended by Dr Satish Shetye, NIO Director and Micheal de Souza, Director of Department of Science, Technology and Environment.

Car used in murder case released HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 23

The Swift Dzire which was used to abduct the deceased in the headless body murder case has been released by the JMFC, Margao on Wednesday.

In another development, the JMFC has rejected the bail applications filed by the four accused persons, Jayesh Naik and his brothers, Govind and Rajesh, besides Nitin Dicholkar.

The bail applications were rejected by the court on grounds of jurisdiction since the murder is triable by the sessions court.

Maina Curtorim PI Sidhant Shirodkar confirmed that the JMFC has ordered the release of the Swift Dzire after securing a bond of Rs eight lakh.

The police had seized the Dzire car after investigations into the sensational case revealed that the vehicle was used to abduct the deceased from Pedda-Benaulim to Margao and then to Rumdamol-Davorlim housing Board area.

Dr Salkar urges for Education Dept probe into fake birth certificate HERALD CORRESPONDENT BICHOLIM, FEB 23

In a tit for tat gesture, Dr Shekhar Salkar has urged the chief secretary to direct the Education Department to investigate into the fake birth certificate case of Ganesh Dayananad Narvekar, son of Al-

dona MLA Dayananad Narvekar.

It may be recalled that the Aldona MLA is alleged to have earlier requested the chief secretary to investigate into functioning of NOTE India, which is headed by Dr Salkar.

In a letter to the Chief Secretary dated February 23, Dr

Salkar highlighted that he had requested the education minister to appoint a committee to investigate into the forged birth certificate, where Dayanand Narvekar had mentioned the date of birth as ‘February 28, 1992’ to seek admission to his son in the school.

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police forced me to change Jail officials propose mini my statement: Georgina hospital in Sada Sub-Jail HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

Georgina Nunes, the girlfriend of Cipriano Fernandes who allegedly died in police custody, on Wednesday, told the Court that Panjim police tried to pressurise her to change her statement before the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), who conducted inquiry into the unfortunate incident.

In her deposition before the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Panjim, which is conducting trial into Cipriano’s death, Georgina claimed that Cipriano died as a result of police beating.

“After the SDM recorded my statement, police constable Sandip Shirvaikar came to my residence at Caranzalem and asked me to change my statement as I deposed against him for beating Cipriano in the po-

Jt inspection of Princess today HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

The state government is set to conduct a joint inspection of M V River Princess before the actual work of cutting of the ship is started. The joint inspection as well panchanama of the ship will be conducted on Thursday to avoid any allegation of theft and pilferage, said a source in the Tourism Department.

The Director of Tourism Swapnil Naik has already dashed a letter to Superintendent of Police (SP), North Goa seeking co-operation of the Police Department in this exercise.

The whole inspection will be documented in the form of photographs and videography. M/s Drishti Special Response Services Ltd has been asked to make necessary arrangement including boats, ladders for boarding the vessel, and lifeguard support.

Already two police complaints have been lodged at Calangute Police Station complaining that some objects from the grounded vessel has gone missing.

The department has no records to vouch to if anything from the vessel is missing as no panchanama and inventory was taken when the vessel went aground in 2000.

Barge owners booked HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, FEB 23

Calangute Police on Wednesday registered an offence against the owners of barge MV NOOR IV, which had sunk off the Aguada-Sinquerim coast on Sunday midnight.

Calangute Police registered the offence under Section 336 against the owners.

It may be recalled that the incident took place late Sunday night when the barge, which had developed a crack, was transferring ore from its hull to a trans-shipper ‘Vigor’.

When Herald visited the Calangute Police station, the crew of the vessel were being questioned by police in connection with the mishap that claimed the life of one crew, whose body is yet to be retrieved.

Meanwhile, search operations to trace the body of the missing crew member are in progress.

Cipriano death CaSe lice van and police station,” she told the Magistrate in her twohour-long deposition.

“Cipriano’s death was unnatural. I feel the police have taken his life by hitting him on his head,” she added when the Magistrate asked her opinion on the death.

Georgina deposed after the JMFC issued bailable warrant against her for failing to respond to summons earlier.

Deposing further she told the JMFC that Cipriano was beaten inside the vehicle right from the

time he was picked up from Porvorim till the Panjim police station.

She further stated that two constables, one of whom was Shirvaikar dragged the unconscious Cipriano holding his collar inside the police station and dumped him in a room adjacent to inspector Sandesh Chodankar’s cabin.

Earlier, Georgina had given this statement made before the JMFC today to the SDM and the State Police Complaints Authority.

Cross examination in Scarlet case resumes after 2 months

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

The cross examination in the sensational British teen Scarlet Keeling case resumed after a gap of two months on Wednesday in the Goa Children’s Court.

With this, the long-pending cross examination of the key prosecution witness Murli Sagar also concluded.

Sagar, prosecution’s 15th witness, worked as a waiter at the Lui Café shack located at Anjuna beach, where Scarlet frequented before her death on February 18, 2008.

The case hearing has now been adjourned to March 11 when British national Michael Mannion (Mike Masala) is likely to be present for recording of his statement.

Michael, 35, a London-based carpenter, had claimed to be an

eye-witness in the entire episode before Scarlet’s bruised body was found on Anjuna shore.

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) special public prosecutor E Khan has replaced PP S R Rivonkar in the case.

Rivonkar, in January had written to the Juvenile Court and CBI stating that he did not want to continue fighting the case. It is learnt that Rivonkar was disturbed as the trial was dragging on for several months.

The public prosecutor had said that he is busy with several other cases and might not be able to give his best to this important case.

Two locals – Samson D’Souza and Placido Carvalho – are facing charges of drugging, molestation and leaving the British teenager to die on the Anjuna beach. The case was initially investigated by Goa police, which was later handed over to CBI in July 2008.

While the Goa police had charged Samson and Placido under sections 302 (murder), 376 (rape), 323 (administering drugs) of the Indian Penal Code and Goa Children’s Act 2003, CBI in their chargesheet before the Court in October 2009 mellowed down charges against them.

HERALD REPORTER VASCO, FEB 23

In a bid to curb convicts and undertrials from fleeing or even enjoying an unauthorised outing under the pretext of a “medical emergency”, jail authorities have proposed a mini hospital in the Sada Sub-Jail.

The proposal has gathered momentum after the undertrial, Balesh Dessai, and a Vasco Escort Cell team were caught at an ice-cream parlour in Vasco on Monday night, after Dessai had been escorted out of Sada jail on grounds of “medical attention” for an alleged ailment.

Convicts and undertrials at the Sada Sub Jail are well aware that jail authorities cannot restrain them if they complain of a medical emergency.

In order to stop undertrials

Lawyer’s termination order set aside HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

The High Court of Bombay at Goa on Monday quashed aside the termination order of senior Advocate Harsha Naik observing that she was not heard before its issuance.

Incidentally, when the termination order was issued to her on March 18, 2010, she was serving as the President of the Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum, North Goa. The High Court decision noted that Adv Naik was not heard before the termination order was issued and the same was in breach of principles of natural justice, even though she was holding the position of president of Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum, North Goa. The forum and the department concerned that issued the termination order should have heard the advocate and pass an appropriate order, the Court stated further.

Adv Naik had claimed she was not given any reason in the termination order and neither any show-cause notice was issued to her. She challenged the order on April 1, 2010.

The Court has made it clear the Government should hear Adv Naik and subsequently pass a fresh order.

Sailor’s wife prays for early end to hostage drama HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 23

The Pereira family is pinning hopes on the ongoing talks between the African Pirates and the Iranian cargo ship company to secure the release of the 22 crew members, including the lone Goan sailor Thomas, held hostage since February 11.

“We have been praying to God for an early end to the hostage drama and the safe return of my husband Thomas back home”, said wife Zenaida.

Putting up in an apartment in the Madel locality of the city here, Zenaida says that the company officials have spoken to her reassuring that all out efforts are being made to secure the release of the 22 crew members aboard the hijacked ship. “We have been praying to God since the crew members were held hostage by the pirates for the

Cricket stadium: Centre stays forest clearance HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

Goa Foundation counsel Ms Norma Alvares today informed the High Court via an amendment that the Ministry of Environment and Forests has taken a decision to hold its forest clearance for the International Cricket stadium, at Tivim, in abeyance.

The amendment application sought to bring the Ministry’s order, dated February 3, on record in the proceedings.

The Foundation also drew the attention of the Court to the Forest Conservation guidelines which indicate that in those projects where a part of the lease has forest, no work can commence on the entire project until and unless the part has a forest clearance.

The PIL filed by the Goa Foundation challenges work that has commenced under Phase I of the project.

The Goa Cricket Association gave an undertaking two months ago that it had halted all Phase I work after the PIL was taken up for hearing by the High Court.

The petition seeks restoration of the 125 trees felled for the project and of the paddy fields that have since been destroyed to make way for the cricket pitch.

safe return of my husband. Company officials have telephonically contacted me and spoke on the ongoing talks with the pirates”, Zenaida told Herald on Wednesday evening.

She said the company officials have informed that the Iranian Embassy is being contacted to ensure the hostage crisis is over at the earliest and the crew members return home safely and unharmed.

“My husband spoke to me from board the hijacked ship for five minutes. He said they are safe and not to be panicky”, she added.

Sources said the Iranian Cargo ship carrying ore was hijacked off the coast of Oman while the vessel was heading towards Singapore from the UAE. Rajya Sabha MP Shantaram Naik told Herald from New Delhi on Wednesday that he has been in constant touch with the Mum-

Usgao man hangs to death HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARCEL, FEB 23

A 32-year-old man from UsgaoPonda committed suicide by hanging himself at his residence on Wednesday afternoon.

According to Ponda Police, the body of Sachin Gawas was found hanging to the rafter in the store room. Villagers shifted Sachin to a private hospital in Ponda, where he was declared dead.

It is learnt that a police complaint was lodged by a girl against the deceased on charges of harassing her. The boy was supposedly involved a one-sided love affair. However, when Ponda police reached Sachin’s residence for inquiry, they learnt of the incident.

bai office of the Director General of Shipping on the hostage drama. “I have also met Union Minister of Shipping, G K Vasan, who has assured that the hostage crisis is being closely monitored by the Director General of Shipping”, he said.

This is not the first time that Goan sailors along with other crew members have been held hostage by the pirates. In the past, sailors from the State working on the Merchant Navy had been held hostage by the pirates, only to be released after the shipping companies met their demand for huge ransom.

and convicts from being escorted out of the jail to visit hospitals, jail authorities at Sada Sub Jail have proposed a minihospital in the jail, which would comprise four beds, a male nurse and visiting doctors on a regular basis.

“Though Sada jail has a regular male nurse to take basic care of inmates in the jail, he is not a fully qualified person to attend to the ailments of inmates. As such, inmates frequently seek medical help from hospitals outside,” said a jail official who spoke on condition of anonymity.

“We have made a proposal for a mini-hospital, as we are aware that inmates take advantage of a medical emergency and sometimes escape from custody.”

“Jail authorities cannot

deny medical aid to inmates because it lacks a medical professional in the jail. If inmates are denied medical aid and if any eventuality occurs, jail authorities would be blamed for the incident,” said the official.

“Inmates often complain of dental problems and hence, there is also a proposal to depute dentist regularly in the jail once the mini-hospital is set up.”

“Once the mini-hospital is set up, inmates would not need medical attention outside the jail. But when they do leave the jail premises either to attend to court hearings or for a major medical problem, we have no role to play and their custody is the sole authority of the Escort Police,” said the official.

Michael targets auto, robs foreigner HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, FEB 23

Barely hours of his dramatic escape from the police escort van at Chicalim, the undertrial, Michael Fernandes, reportedly waylaid a rickshaw at Devabhag-Canacona and snatched a bag containing cash and other items from a foreign national on Tuesday night.

According to Canacona Police, four robbers on two motorcycles blocked a rickshaw (GA-02-T2486) proceeding from Agonda Beach towards Palolem at Devabhag at about 10 pm.

One person alighted from the motorcycle and snatched a bag from the foreign woman in the rickshaw. All four robbers then fled from the scene on the same motorcycles, before an alarm could be raised.

According to Canacona PI Raju Raut Dessai, the purse contained cash of Rs 3,000, a Canon camera, a mobile phone and other materials, all valued at Rs 16,000.

“It is strongly suspected that

one of the waylaying culprits is the undertrial, Michael Fernandes of Agassaim, who had escaped only on Tuesday evening from a police escort van at Chicalim junction, apparently with the help of some of his former gang members,” informed PI Dessai.

“Incidentally, the woman identified the person, who forcibly took away her bag when she was shown the photo of the escaped undertrial,” stated Dessai.

VASCO REPORTER ADDS: Police are yet to confirm whether the person, who took away the hand bag from the foreign national was Fernandes, but the description of the person and motorcycle provided by the complainant, it appears that it could be Fernandes.

Interestingly, number plate (GA07-H-1426) is of Yamaha FZ, while the official website of Goa Transport states that the registered number (GA-07-H-1426) is that of a Hero Honda Passion motorcycle, which is registered in the name of some other person.

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Pg4 GOA, THURSDAY, 24 FEBRUARY, 2011

S H O RT TA K E S Sangath awarded trophy

PANJIM (HND): The National Trust has awarded a trophy to the Sangath in appreciation of its outstanding contribution to the Badthe Kadam campaign held from November 16 to 30, 2010 across the country.

Sangath is a non-governmental, non-profit organization that has been working in the field of mental health and family well being in Goa since 1996. Sangath, along with other NGOs in the disability sector, launched ‘Badhthe Kadam’ a nationwide disability awareness campaign for the welfare of persons with autism, cerebral palsy, and mental retardation. During the 15 day event, several events such as rallies, Special Olympics and stage performances by children were held in the major cities of Goa like Bicholim, Pernem, Vasco, Canacona and Margao.

Cezar chosen ‘King Momo’

PANJIM (HND): Well known tiatrist stage performer, dancer singer and choreographer Cezar D’Mello has been chosen as the King Momo for this year’s Carnival.

Known for his trio MilMel-Nel, he has performed with almost all the stage artistes of Goa and Mumbai besides acting in few Hindi moves.

He formed his own dram a t i c t ro u p e n a m e d ‘Ceazar Dramatic troupe’ and participated in tiatr competition organsied

by Kala Academy and won laurels. He has also published ‘Kal ani Aiz’, a tiatr in book form which includes a musical play on drugs ‘Kalljivont Nazia’. Recently a group led by him bagged the second prize for folk song competition at all India Civil Services Competition in New Delhi. He has produced more than 200 plays for AIR. Apart from tiatr and folk activities, he is a lover of football and played for Panjim Gymkhana, Alto Guimaraes, Young Challengers and MICPA.

IFE international exams

PANJIM (HND): The Institution of Fire Engineers (UK) annual international examination for the candidates from India for the preliminary, intermediate, graduate and memberships will be held in Panjim on March 10 and 11 at exam centre No 105 at Don Bosco Campus, Panjim.

Local candidates and members of the rest of the branches in India may contact Dr P K John, Branch President IFE (UK) for admission to the examination on 08322459633.

Exam for repeaters

PANJIM (HND): Ex-students of Dhempe College of Art and Science of TYBA/BSc (old course) who had failed in their papers and who wish to re-appear for the forthcoming April 2011 examination, may submit their examination forms in the college office by March 3.

Urologist expresses concern over rising kidney stone cases in children HERALD CORRESPONDENT PORVORIM, FEB 23

R G Stone Urology and Laparoscopy Hospital Chief Urologist Dr Neeraj Kumar Goyal has stated that kidney stone cases in children are on the rise and nearly 10 per cent of the kidney stone patients are children.

Addressing media at Porvorim, Dr Goyal said kidney stones can more commonly occur in children living in hot climates or if they have any birth defects in their urinary tract.

“A family history of kidney stones is also a significant risk factor. Food habits and lifestyles can also lead to kidney stones in children. Today, kid consumes a lot of sugarfilled cold drinks and fast food that is high in sodium a known risk factor in the formation of kidney stones,” said Dr Goyal.

With regard to symptoms of renal stones, Dr Goyal said the symptoms in children with stone disease may range from pain in the abdomen or back, flank pain and blood

in urine to non-specific symptoms such as irritability, nausea or vomiting.

“However, some children might not experience any symptoms at all. The stone blocks the urinary tract and prevents the normal flow of urine. If the blockage is not treated quickly it can cause permanent damage to kidney,” added Dr Goyal.

Explaining about the treatments, Dr Goyal said the treatment modality depends upon the chemical composition of the stone and biochemical abnormalities causing its formation.

“Lithotripsy is the treatment of choice for kidney stone in many pediatric cases.

Lithotripsy is done by directing high-energy shock wave towards the stone. This energy causes the stone to break into fragments that can be passed in urine. The procedure takes about 20 minutes,” informed Dr Goyal.

Dr Goyal further said children who develop kidney stones have a significant

chance of re-developing stones in future.

“Studies have estimated the chances to be between 30 and 40 per cent. However, precautions can decrease the chances of developing another stone. Limiting salt and calcium in diet and drinking plenty of water are the best to prevent kidney stones,” he said.

General Manager Ameet Gautam said in their Porvorim hospital, they perform about 75 renal stone surgeries including that of adults per month.

“The expenses incurred depend upon the type and location of the renal stone in the kidney and it varies from Rs 30,000 to Rs 1 lakh. In this hospital, we have performed stone surgery on a 12 and half year child,” said Gautam.

“Our institute has 16 super specialty stone and prostrate care centers in India and three more hospitals each in Faridabad, Mumbai and New Delhi will be set up shortly,” added Gautam.

Biplav named dy Chairman of MPT

UPCOMING EVENTS Retreat for students

PANJIM (HND): Fr Conceicao D’Silva and the Parish Youth Association of Carambolim Church will organise all Goa SSC and college students retreat for success of exams at Carambolim Church on February 25, from 6.30 am to 12 noon.

Thomas Fernandes and his intercessory team will pray at the feet of the Blessed Sacrament for the success of the retreat for SSC and college students. The retreat will begin at 7.30 am with Biblical Rosary based on the life of the youngsters.

From 8.30 am to 9.30 am, Dioginho D’Costa will give a talk on how the SSC and college students prepare themselves for the final Board exams. From 9.30 am to 10.30 am, Mario Fernandes and his music ministry will conduct praise and worship dedicated to SSC and college students.

From 11 am to 12 noon, Fr Conceicao, Mario Fernandes and Jose Miranda will conduct the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament dedicated to the SSC and college students and then Fr Conceicao will pray over the SSC and college students and bless them.

Fr Feroz Fernandes, Editor of Vavraddeancho Ixtt, will be the main celebrant for the concelebrated mass where he will preach on theme ‘Dor Ek SSC ani College-ichea Bhurgeamni Povitr Atmeachea Uzvaddan Aple Porikxechi Bori Toyari Korchi Saibinnmaichea Adharan’.

From 6.30 am to 12 noon, several priests will be available for confession. Transport will be available from Margao near Fatima Convent, Bus Stand from 6.30 am onwards.

‘Abharan’ jewellery show

PANJIM (HND): ‘Abharan’, a household name for premium quality jewellery in coastal Karnataka will conduct its sixth exhibition and sales of wide variety of diamond and traditional South Indian jewellery on February 25 and 26 at Hotel Nanutel, Margao and on February 27, 28 and March 1 at Hotel Mandovi, Panjim.

‘Abharan’ will introduce new designs and rare jewellery regularly thereby expanding the range and variety to choose from, along with creation of customized jewellery for which ‘Abharan’ has an in-house team of experienced designers who directly interact with customers.

Abharan has won the ‘Corp Excel’ National Excellence Award 2008 presented by Corporation Bank for corporate excellence.

‘Abharan’ has also received the ISO 9001:2008 certification for quality management system. It was also nominated for the 5th retail Jeweller India Awards 2009 in the gold jewellery section. Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), has classified ‘Abharan’ in the category of 916 “Hallmark Jewellery” which is testimony of its quality standards.

HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 23

Biplav Kumar, Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS), has recently taken over as the new deputy Chairman Biplav Kumar of Mormugao Port Trust (MPT). His appointment was made by the Ministry of Shipping, GoI. Prior to joining MPT, the IRTS officer of 1992 batch was the chairman in-charge and deputy chairman of Paradip Port Trust, Orissa. He was trained in port management at Antwerp.

Prior to being appointed as deputy chairman of Paradip Port, Kumar was tourism director under the Ministry of Railways.

He has held important positions in the railways, including Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Dy Chief Operations Manager and Director Tourism and Catering.

Kumar has received national awards conferred by the Railway Minister in 2007 and the highest zonal award in 2004.

GOA

Konkani poet Arun Sakhardande receives Sahitya Akademi Award 2010 for his poetry book ‘Kavlyache Sraddh’ from Sahitya Akademi President Sunil Gangopadhyay, at Kamnai Sabhaghar, New Delhi.

Convention centre will worsen parking woes in city: PCAC HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 23

Stating that having a convention centre at the Inox parking is almost akin to adding fuel to fire to the already grim park-

ing situation in Panjim, PCAC chairperson Atish Fernandes has lambasted the proposal of a 2000-seater auditorium with parking facility for only 150 cars.

“International standard for parking to seat ratio is .33 parking for every seat which makes a requirement for 660 parking slots,” Atish pointed out and further stated that it does not take into consideration the 1200 seats that already exist at the multiplex.

“Furthermore one has to note that this complex is adjoining the main Panjim market and this additional inflow will definitely affect the daily lives of the citizens,” he added.

Painting a grim picture, Atish said that the Campal residents are already facing enormous hardships since the Kala Academy, the football grounds, Pan-

jim Gymkhana and the parade grounds are mostly booked for exhibitions/functions.

“Parking is haphazard and is done on both sides of DB Marg and even on the pavements forcing people to walk on the road. Blocking of private entrances to residences and colonies is very common,” he added and said that over development of this main road will lead to problems not only for the residents of the area but also of Miramar, Dona Paula, Caranzalem and Taleigao.

As a solution to the problem, PCAC suggested that any such convention centers have to be built in undeveloped areas while lambasting the authorities for centering their attention only around around the DB Marg and Campal areas and neglecting other parts of the city.

Crafts Bazaar opened

Prize distribution ceremony

PANJIM (HND): The prize distribution ceremony of the State Level Boat Competition organised by the Directorate of Art & Culture in November at River Valvonti during Tripurari Pournima festival will be held on February 25 at Vitthal temple, Vittalapur, Sankhali, at 7 pm. The prize winners will be awarded rolling trophy, cash prizes and certificates.

Mahamaya Kalika of Ona-Bicholim won the 1st prize, Sarvan Star of Sarvan-Bicholim bagged the 2nd prize, Omkar group of Vithpur-Sankhali won the 3rd prize, Jolly Boys of MayemBicholim won the 4th prize and Allahdin Kunkerkar friend of Vithalpur-Sankhali won the 5th prize.

Book release

PANJIM (HND): The International Centre Goa and Literati will release Sudhir Kakar’s latest book – ‘A Book of Memory: Confessions and Reflections’ at the hands of Dr Maria Aurora Couto. The book is published by Penguin.

The release is scheduled on February 25 at The International Centre-Goa, Dona Paula at 7 pm. The release will be followed by interaction with the author. The programme is open for all. For prior registration contact: Arjun Halarnkar, Programme M a n a g e r, ICG (9765404391, 2452805-10, prog@incentgoa.com).

Diabetes detection camp

PANJIM (HND): Dr Digambar Naik, cardiologist of Vrundavan Hospital & Research Centre in association with PTA of Shree Kamaleshwar HSS, Korgaon will organise a free diabetes detection and heart disease check up camp on February 27 in the school premises from 9 am to 1 pm.

The camp will include consultation by physicians, checking blood sugar levels. ECG will be done on patients free of cost if necessary. The hospital will provide doses of medicine free to those with diabetes and heart disease and distribute pamphlets with information about causes, complications, care and prevention of diabetes. Registration is compulsory and can be done by calling Shree Kamaleshwar HSS on 2241101.

Patients are advised to carry previous reports.

Chronic pain camp

PANJIM (HND): Vrundavan Hospital & Research Centre, Mapusa, in association with pain specialist Dr Seetaram Korgaonkar, DA, MD (anaesthesia) and Dr Chittaranjan Das MD will sponsor free chronic pain camp on February 27.

For registration call Hospital & Research Centre, Mapusa on 2250022/ 2250033/6713535. Only first 50 registrations will be entertained.

Patients will be given a questionnaire to fill, doctors will examine the patients and will analyze and treat the problems.

Interventional procedures like Ozone Injection, IMS, Trigger Point Injection, Transforaminal Block, Median Branch Block, Facet Joint Blocks, etc will be performed to the required patients at concessional rates on February 27.

Legal awareness at Bastora

PANJIM (HND): Bastora Free Legal Aid Cell of V M Salgaocar College of Law will conduct a legal aid programme on ‘Domestic Violence and Free Legal Aid’ on February 27 at Bastora panchayat hall, at 4 pm. The programme will be coordinated by Prof Pearl Monteiro. Citizens of Bardez may attend the programme. For registration, contact Vidhati Shetye.

Shantaram Naik inaugurates crafts bazaar at GTDC grounds, Baga.

HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 23

Gandhi Shilp Crafts Bazaar organised by the Goa Handicrafts, Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation Limited (GHRSSIDC) is underway at GTDC Grounds, Baga, and will be open till February 27.

This is Goa’s biggest all-India handicrafts exhibition spon-

sored by Development Commission (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, GoI, recently inaugurated by MP Shantaram Naik in the presence of Chairman of GHRSSIDC Sameer Salgaoncar.

The exhibition has stalls that display for sale diverse range handicrafts and handloom from the various states of India.

Syndicate bank shifts Panjim office HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 23

Syndicate Bank has shifted its Panjim branch to EDC House, ground floor, Dr Atmaram Borkar Road, Panjim. The bank will function from the new premises from February 21.

Passport Adalat

PANJIM (HND): Passport Office, Panjim will hold ‘Passport Adalat’ for South and North Goa districts on March 5, from 10 am to 1.15 pm at Passport Bhavan, Patto Plaza, Panjim.

Applicants who have applied for passport and for which clear police report has been received but still pending for more than 30 days may register their grievances in writing w i t h t h e Pa s s p o r t O f f i c e r o r t h r o u g h e - m a i l (rpo.panaji@mea.gov.in) by March 3. The applicants are asked to be present at passport office with all original documents at the time of the Adalat.

POWER SHUTDOWN FEBRUARY 24 PANAJI: From 9 am to 2 pm. Areas affected are Gomantak Bhavan, Salgaokar building, Radha Krishna building, Saawni building, Sanjeevani building, Janaki building, Swati building, Vihar building, Madhuban building, St Inez Church, St Inez bandh and surrounding areas.

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GOA

Pg 5 GOA, THURSDAY, 24 FEBRUARY, 2011

Politicos urged to fulfill demand for separate High Court for Goa HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 23

Welcoming the decision of the Rajya Sabha MP Shantaram Naik to work towards the setting up a High Court for Goa, the South Goa Advocates Association (SGAA) has said the time has come for the North Goa MP, exMPs, present and past Legislators to resolve to fulfill the genuine and urgent demand of Goans to have their own High Court in conformity with Article 214 of the Constitution of India.

“The Advocates Association appeals to all lawyers, litigants and legislators to stand-up the cause of securing complete independence for the State by securing for itself a Goa High Court in the true spirit of the Constitution of India. The doubts and suspicion held by the legal fraternity should not be a stumbling block to secure a rightful, separate and independent High Court for the State of Goa”, asserted Association President Adv Anacleto Viegas.

He said the reality of the situation is that today Goa has had

more than its share of authoritarian judicial administration as can be seen from the punishment imposed on good Goan judges without concern for the image of the judiciary and the rule of law.

“The most ridiculous situation arose when a Bombay High Court Judge visited Goa and celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Bombay High Court Bench in the 27th year inspite of objections from the Bar and concerned citizens”, he said.

Adv Viegas said it is also known that huge expenses are incurred on visiting judges, their families, their attendants and servants when they visit the State of Goa on temporary assignments thus putting a huge financial burden on public finances. “The appointment of the Registrar of High Court from another State and other Staff members also puts a strain on the exchequer”, he added Saying that Goa has had many enlightened judges who have manned the Goan courts with high levels of integrity and de-

votion to duty, honesty and dignity, Adv Viegas said “In the past 30 years not more than 9 lawyers/ judges from the State have been elevated to the Bench of Bombay High Court but this have been at the cost of sacrificing several vacancies at the district level and at the senior civil judge level to persons from outside the State. The appointees at the subordinate as well as the High Court level are not conversant with the local laws nor with local language or tradition. This has resulted in injustice being caused to many litigants whose mother tongue is Konkani and the law governing the Goans is the personal law as laid down in the Portuguese Civil Code”.

He said lawyers from the State are deprived of vacancies at the High Court as well as the subordinate courts as selection process is secretive and confined to a committee consisting of judges only. This has caused suspicion in the legal fraternity on the merits of the selection process.

Miraculous Cross feast celebrated

Devotees take ‘Kanji’ at the feast of Miraculous Cross at Old Goa. Photo by Kanzil Rodrigues HERALD CORRESPONDENT OLD GOA, FEB 23

Hundreds of devotees on Wednesday thronged Old Goa to celebrate the feast of Miraculous Cross, popularly known as ‘Milagricho Khuris’.

The feast is being celebrated every year at the Convent of Miraculous Cross at Old Goa on February 23.

History says that the Church owes its existence to a miracle that took place on February 23, 1619. A teakwood Cross, about 22 feet in length, was mounted on a rock of that hill by Fr Manoel Rodrigues, Vicar of the Cathedral.

However, on that eventful day, people from the city were surprised to see several red flags.

On the following morning, the people saw a human figure nailed on that Cross with head

uplifted, hands and feet fastened together, a white towel encircling the waist, the body covered with wounds and stained with blood and a crown of thorns on the head.

Taking a walk around, one can see the ruins of the Oritarian Convent. Huge broken walls and the broken roof show the lifestyle of the people living there. A statue of Blessed Fr Joseph Vaz is installed in the oratory premises. There are also other remains like that of what looks like a bakery that was used for the inmates there.

Many people from Sri Lanka also visit the Miraculous Church, as the place was one attached to Blessed Joseph Vaz, who used to live there and was a missionary in Sri Lanka.

The theme for this year’s feast mass was ‘Let us be witness of

Colva JCI felicitates Rajendra Talak

‘O Maria’ film director Rajendra Talak receives a shawl and crystal trophy from cardiologist Dr Francisco Colaco at a felicitation function organised by JCI-Covla.

HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 23

Rajendra Talak, the Director of the movie ‘O Maria’ was felicitated by Junior Chamber International- Colva on reaching the milestone of 60 continuous days of screening of his movie at the hands of noted cardiologist Dr Francisco Colaco, who presented him with a shawl and crystal trophy.

Dr Colaco lauded Talak and reminded the audience of his consistency in promoting Konkani thorough medium of movies. Dr Colaco expressed his happiness at the success of ‘O Maria’. He also recalled that Talak has been the recipient of National Award for Konkani movies like Aleesha and Saarwaryaa.

The audience consisting of families, including a large number of senior citizens, praised the efforts of the director in

highlighting the current issues facing the State and its citizens.

Rajendra Talak, who was overcome with emotions, thanked the audience for such a massive turnout to witness his movie. He reminded the audience that since the great Konkani epics like Nirmonn and Amchem Noxib, O Maria has caught the imagination of the crowd and has been running in the theatres for 60 continuous days. Rajendra Talak also paid glowing tributes to JCI Colva for promoting his film and as a gesture waived off his royalty.

Earlier the Chapter President Sunita Rathod welcomed the gathering, Vanesa Furtado and Betty Gois introduced the chief guest and the director to the audience and project manager J J Rohark Rodricks coordinated the event.

Jesus crucified in the footsteps of Blessed Joseph Vaz’.

Editor of Konkani Magazine ‘Roti’ Fr Kelvin Monteiro was the main celebrant for the feast Mass along with Se Cathedral Church Parish Priest Fr Leonardo Corriea, Our Lady of Pedade Church Diwar Parish Priest Fr Anil Kumar and Administrator of Our Lady of Miraculous Cross Fr Eremito Rebello.

Speaking to Herald, In-charge of Our Lady of Miraculous Church Fr Rebello said the significance of the place is the Cross, which is now in Se Cathedral Church, was originally on the hill of the Miraculous Church.

“People believed that Jesus Christ had appeared crucified on the Cross on February 23 1619. A lot of miracles have taken place at this miraculous hill and as we proceed into the lent season, I would like to call upon the people to repent and change evil life and follow the life of rightfulness in their dayto-day life,” said Fr Rebello.

“I am here for the past seven years and have seen how people are increasing here. When I came here, there were not as many people as there were today, as people did not knew about the history of the place,” he said.

“But now I make it a point on every feast day to inform the devotees about the historical importance of the place and also the biblical message god gives to the people of Goa through this Miraculous Cross,” added Fr Rebello.

HSSC seating at Margao HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 23

The seating arrangement for the HSSC examination, in Margao, scheduled to be held in March, is as follows.

SCIENCE STREAM: 54812 55111 from March 7 to 18 in Chowgule College. Examinations scheduled on March 19 for optional languages II would be in Carmel Higher Secondary, Nuvem.

55112 - 55386 from March 7 to 16 in Govt Multipurpose Higher Secondary School, Borda, and on March 17 and 18 for optional languages II in Chowgule College. Examinations scheduled on March 19 for optional languages II would be in Carmel Higher Secondary, Nuvem.

COMMERCE STREAM: 54550 – 54811 in Carmel Higher Secondary, Nuvem.

ARTS STREAM: 54244 – 54548, 63763 in Fr Agnel Higher Secondary School, Verna, except for examinations on March 16 (Psychology) and from March 25 onwards in Carmel Higher Secondary, Nuvem.

VOCATIONAL STREAM: CRM: 55514 – 55711, 55807 and 61740 in Fr Agnel Higher Secondary School, Verna; OSS: 55387 – 55454 at Fr Agnel Higher Secondary School, Verna; CGDM: 55456 – 55513, 55806 only from March 12 to 16 in Government Multipurpose Higher Secondary School, Borda. All examinations thereafter would be in Fr Agnel Higher Secondary School, Verna; CT: 55712 – 55750, 55808 in Carmel Higher Secondar y, Nuvem; ET/MREEDA: 55751 – 55805 only on March 14 and 16 in Government Multipurpose Higher Secondary School, Borda.

All examinations thereafter would be in Fr Agnel Higher Secondary School, Verna.

DoE directs Manovikas to roll back fees, AGUSPA hails HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 23

All Goa Unaided Schools Parents Association (AGUSPA) has welcomed the decision of the Director of Education to direct the Manovikas school’s principal to roll back the fees charged by them and to stick to the approved fees of 2008-09 until further orders of the court.

The DoE was acting on the complaints of several parents stating that the school was charging exorbitant fees in violation of the Goa Education Act 1984 and also the status quo maintained by the Goa Bench of Bombay High Court. The DoE issued the order on February 11.

In a press release issued here, AGUSPA Chairman Nisser Dias while welcoming the DoE direction has said that the parents plea that unaided schools were charging arbitrary fees stands vindicated. He however said that the DoE should send the circular to all unaided schools who have charged fees other than approved by the Director.

AGUSPA member Franky Monteiro has demanded that the school should immediately refund excess money illegally collected from parents.

One crushed to death HERALD CORRESPONDENT CURCHOREM, FEB 23

A 45-year-old native of Tamil Nadu was crushed to death by a mini bus in Curchorem market on Sunday afternoon.

According to Curchorem PSI Vijay Kavlekar, Mohammad Saliya while crossing the road near railway station, he accidentally slipped due to shaky cement slab that was covered on the gutter and came under the rear wheels of the mini bus (GA-01-W-4519). Saliya died on the spot.

NCP opposes extension work at Kala Academy HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

A handful of leaders from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) youth wing on Wednesday met the Kala Academy Member Secretary Pandurang Faldesai objecting to the extension work of the main building.

The members objected that the extension of the rear side of the main building would spoil the beautification of the area as the work would also result in cutting of age-old trees.

Kala Academy, Goa’s premier centre for performing arts, is undergoing extension work for

which its officials claimed to have obtained no objection certificates from respective departments.

Faldesai told the protesting members to make a written representation, which he will forward to his superiors.

“I will make available all information regarding the extension work. I request to make a written representation, which I will forward to the authorities… ” he said.

He also stated that if the trees were being chopped, they would plant more saplings and certain trees could be transplanted.

GU complains of encroachment HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 23

It has been alleged that the Electricity Department has been illegally encroaching upon the property of Goa University bearing survey no 272 in Taleigao.

A complaint in this regard was first lodged with the Panjim police station on February 3, according to a press release issued here. However, till date, illegal

trespassing and encroachment continues unabated.

On February 21, it was noticed that the Electricity Department had uprooted concrete fencing poles and had dumped steel rails in the area. The University has again lodged a complaint with Panjim Police Station on February 21 against the unauthorized and illegal encroachment of its property.

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www.oheraldo.in

O HERALD O

Ad hocism, Goa style

Vol No CXI No: 055 Goa, Thursday, 24 February, 2011

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An escort service?

e have all heard how Satyam scam accused B Ramalinga Raju, who swindled thousands of crores, did not spend a single night of the many months he was allegedly jailed in either a lock up or in gaol. Instead, he was in a luxurious private hospital. We know how VVIP convicts in Tihar Jail have all the luxuries they desire, while authorities conveniently look the other way.

But did we know that similar things were happening right under our noses?

Balesh Dessai cousin of fomer minister Ramrao Dessai and an accused in the murder of one Samir Mapari, who is an undertrial at the Sada Sub-Jail, can leave any time he likes, roam around anywhere he wants, enjoy an ice cream at a parlour in Vasco, and pay for it with money he is not supposed to possess. All with a police security escort and transport at the tax payer’s expense.

It is true that the two of the constables escorting him have been “suspended pending inquiry”, but this supposedly swift action conceals more than it reveals. For, the constables are the smallest pawns in the game, facing suspension because they took Mr Dessai wherever he wanted. One of them was a recipient of his generosity, but only for ice cream.

But it was bigger bosses that instantly summoned a police escort when he felt “uneasy” at 10 pm in the night. It arrived within 15 minutes, a testament to Mr Dessai’s VVIP status in the jail. After the ice cream, the vehicle headed towards the Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) office. Where did it go? Who did he meet? What did he do there? It was only after this that he returned to the jail, at 11.40 pm. The total time spent at the Chicalim Cottage Hospital – the only legitimate destination – was just 15 minutes.

It is vital to look into all the above aspects, if incidents like this are not to be repeated. Otherwise, as per ‘usual’, the suspended police personnel will only spend a few months out of the force. They will then be reinstated. Meanwhile, the Sada Jail’s ‘escort service’ will continue to be at the service of its VVIP inmates.

Yesterday’s other incident, where undertrial Michael Fernandes – allegedly a gangster who had accepted a ‘supari’ or contract to assassinate Home Minister Ravi Naik – escaped with ease from a van packed with a dozen policemen at Chicalim junction, jumped onto an accomplice’s motorcycle, and vanished, is even more serious. The official account of circumstances is highly suspicious, and suggests a much wider conspiracy to facilitate his escape. Will anyone look into all this, or are we to be content with the “suspension pending inquiry” of the two constables assigned to escort this alleged gangster to the court and back? If it’s the latter, it means that the government wants to let the present rot continue.

T

Overload!

he mining industry, it seems is in overdrive. Everything is overloaded, from the trucks that take the ore to the loading points, to the barges that take the ore to ships bound for China. The Calangute police have registered a case of negligence against the captain and ‘vessel operator’ (Not the same as the owner?) of the barge MV Noor IV, which sank about six nautical miles off the coast late on Sunday night.

Preliminary investigation has apparently shown that the vessel was old, yet it was overloaded. An overloaded barge has very little freeboard, and even a single large wave can sink it. The authorities must make surprise checks and levy stiff fines on overloaded barges.

How much has goa benefited by being a venue for iFFi, asks erVeLL e MeneZeS

T

he current Goa Government is quite an apology of an administration that takes one step forward and two backwards, and not surprisingly so, coming as it does with a leader like Digambar Kamat, whose track record is quite dismal, to say the least. That he is able to keep his “khursi,” is a daily miracle, with the Congress MLAs pulling in different directions. All he does is makes promises and statements, which hardly ever materialise. At a recent horticulture conference, he asked the Directorate of Agriculture and Horticulture Corporation, to work out a scheme to purchase agriculture and horticulture and market the same, to fetch better returns. Mr Kamat also called for efforts to bring more land under agricultural cultivation. This is all good and convincing, as far as rhetoric goes. But that’s all it remains with our Chief Minister at the helm.

More agriculture, when fields are converted more frequently than our Goencho Sahib converted souls to Christianity But what is he doing to control the land mafia, which has been running riot ever since 2005?

There is a school of thought that puts it down to the advent of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in 2004, and this writer can still remember the then Information and Broadcasting Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad voicing Sushma Swaraj’s dream of making Goa the locale for IFFI. “There are beaches in Cannes and there are beaches in Goa” he went on making a strong case for Goa. That’s when the IFFI culture began to sink it, and land prices skyrocketed beyond imagination. All roads lead to Goa and most of them from Delhi with the link with the bureaucrats getting stronger with each passing year.

The then Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar then set the ball rolling, because it was on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) agenda. It was all very well for the Information and Broadcasting Ministry (I&B) to recommend it, but it is the Goa Government that had to shell out the moolah, to the extent of Rs15 crore a year. And it forever holds the threat to shift it back to New Delhi because the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) is not doing enough to popularise it. We all know that the Directorate of Film Festivals (DFF) and the ESG do not have a cordial relationship, but the incompetence of the ESG has come to light often enough.

Marcos Alemao, by email

Planning experts, it seems, have recommended that creating separate lanes for pedestrians, encouraging cycling and proper parking lots in Panjim can ease out traffic congestion. But why only Panjim?

Why not in Mapusa, which is more crowded than Panjim?

The 1,000-year old Amersfoot city in The Netherlands is quite different from Panjim.

Our roads are hopeless. Panjim, capital of Goa state, is stinking and full of garbage.

Is it possible to go the Holland way, given the paucity of funds? First lay the power cables underground and then only start dreaming further dreams.

The CBI has given a clean chit to the Panjim police in the attack on the Panjim police station by a mob led by Babush Monserrate and his wife (Herald, 22 Feb). This only manifests that the police and CBI are hand in glove. What is the point in handing over cases to the CBI when they fail to give justice? The same thing will happen to the police drug nexus case. The police officers involved are only suspended and haven’t been arrested. The CBI will give a clean chit to these suspended police officers and they will be reinstated. This has occurred in the past. In view of the irregularities, the government should hand over such matters to retired judges.

Census’s blase methods John Eric Gomes, Porvorim

Scribes to be freed

The Delegate of the Attorney of the Republic with lack of evidences and complicity against the scribes belonging to ‘0 Liberal’, ‘Diario Ilustrado’ and ‘0 Correio de Manna’ declared that the matter has already being archived and they should be set free.

Elections in Colonies

Will meet the Directorate of the Republican Party with Consulting Council and some members of the Government to deliberate over the elections in the Colonies.

Future revamping

Towards the future revamping the Minister of Justice declared that the General Directorate of Ecclesiastical Affairs will have its own sorry end.

Sale of Royal Coaches

The Government is intending to bring out a Catalog to be distributed in foreign countries to formulate the sale of the existing Royal Coaches.

Every 10 years, a census of national importance is carried out. Refusing census duty is an offence punishable up to 3 years of imprisonment, but lethargic and incompetent duty is a greater crime that remains unpunished! Giving false information is also an offence under the Census Act. I was, therefore, surprised when the enumerator asked me a few questions, recorded the answers in a book, and took my signature on the official form to fill up at his convenience. The Census advertisement mentioned of an online enquiry or complaint Toll Free No: 1800 345 0111 which one could call, in time of need. On dialing this number, I was told that the number did not exist! The same type of casual census, lethargic action on complaints/feedback, had my name removed from the electoral roll.

I, therefore, called on the concerned officer at the Patto Panjim census office, and await to know as to what information was filled.

Ill-mannered humans Merlyn Fernandes, Sao Jose de Areal Irresponsible dog owners are horrid people and have no right to have a pet. They take their dogs for a walk on a leash and allow them to defecate right in front of people’s

own steam. How many Goan filmmakers has it produced? Is the spending of the ESG justified or are they incurring needless losses? Goa has also become a wedding destination, if the recent marriage of Mahesh Bhupathi to Lara Dutta, is any indication.

As for the rest of political life, it continues to make news for the wrong reasons. Now Francisco “Mickky” Pacheco is waxing eloquent about meeting party boss Sharad Pawar to stake his claim, to get into the Goa cabinet and wants partymen Neelkant Halarnkar and Jose Philip D’Souza to be axed, for defying the High Command. This is his reaction to the Congress for having scuttled his move, to get into the cabinet. What else is on Mickky’s agenda? He is said to be filing candidates for the Corporation of the City of Panjim (CCP) elections, but is this not a futile exercise?

As for Atanasio “Babush” Monserrate, he has his own thing of going against the cops, as his recent claim of being beaten up by the cops, has been denied. It is a holy mess up, quite unbecoming of senior politicians.

Then the old problem of mining keeps cropping up, from time to time. Recently, the Rivona locals had stopped the movement of mining trucks, because they exceeded the stipulated carrying capacity. They also had to travel at less that 40km per hour, and had to be covered with tarpaulin, which was not complied with. The drivers are also believed to have threatened the villagers that their houses would be burned. It is high time the government set up an anti-mining organisation to monitor the many lapses.

It must also be remembered that the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MOEF) has issued a show cause notice to Sesa Goa for the cancellation of their expansion plans. Sesa Goa is a subsidiary of Vedanta, the multi-crore giant which has already been pulled up for creating havoc in neighbouring Orissa. Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh is not likely to let this go unnoticed, though the mining lobby is strong enough to retaliate. As a wag put it, “first we were being ruled by the Portuguese, now it is the mining lobby that calls the shots.” Is Digambar Kamat listening?

Recently, there was a news item questioning the authenticity of the United States giant Berger Group Holding, which is involved in a Rs3,500 crore project in connection with the building of Mopa airport. This must, of course, be verified in time than being left with a scam of the magnitude of Enron, which went on for years, before being detected. The devastation it caused in the Konkan region, already underdeveloped, is unbearable. The one thing we must work for is transparency, but it seems to be an impossible dream. It is high time we use the Right to Information clause judiciously. It is one of the greatest weapons to combat corruption.

To end on a personal note, my telephone line which was burnt during the “palki rituals” was dead for 11 long days, despite repeated complaints. In the first place, it is said to be an underground cable. Then how could it get damaged?

And in the days of 2G spectrum scams, a simple underground cable cannot be repaired more speedily. In which Stone Age are we living?

Born free

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Diogo M Fernandes, Colvale

24 February 1911

With all promises to set up a 2,000-strong Convention Centre in three or four years, nothing concrete has materialised. In fact, the next IFFI inauguration is said to be in Margao, but a team from the I&B Ministry has been hurriedly reassured, that the Centre will, in fact, come up in the Inox parking lot. Panjim residents are not too happy about it, as a few of them really get involved with IFFI, but one cannot ignore the inconvenience to its residents, especially in La Campala.

How much has Goa benefited, by being a venue for the festival? I never thought that Goa was suitable, because of the lack of film culture here, but everyone from the ‘babus’ to the film stars wanted Goa because of its reputation as a holiday resort. It’s a free holiday for Bollywood stars who, in any case, can afford to make the trip on their

ay back, during my salad days in Iran, ‘Born Free’ was a best seller, a hit song. The blockbuster popularity of the novel and movie, was a phenomenon. It is the story of Elsa, an African lioness, brought up in captivity; yearning for the freedom she was born.

None of us has freedom at the very beginning of life. As infants, we are held captive for our own protection. Yet, even as babes, something within us longs for freedom. As we grow older, we await a chance to break free, a chance to reach toward the freedom, for which we were born. I observed this during our four year old grandson’s visit over Christmas, when his mother was so very careful to see that the back, side and front doors were kept closed, so that he wouldn’t wander out and about!

I have always enjoyed seeing pigeons or balloons released, flying at liberty into the sky. Also, a cricket ball soaring freely all the way to the pavilion, for a sixer!

This delight at any burst of freedom: whether it is a child running and jumping, and throwing himself into the sand at our Miramar Beach, a young person, like one of daughters, packing off, with

Inept CBI

PRIMEIRO DIARIO NAS COLONIAS PORTUGEZAS

Minding Our BuSineSS

Facts of life

Only for Panjim?

100 Years Ago

OPINION

lots of expectation, heading to foreign shores or an old couple down the launch way on vacation with bags of goodies heading to one of the Bardez villages, show that the desire to be free is as natural as breathing.

This is a desire Mother Nature has put into our hearts. But we must first learn what freedom is. We must learn how to use it correctly, and how to avoid the dangers involved.

Perhaps, the biggest mistake is to think that freedom means independence. Complete independence means that you do not need to love, or to be loved. This kind of independence leads to the worst captivity of all - loneliness.

There are also chains, that bind and keep one from achieving true freedom. These are the chains of fear, of doubts about yourself, of old wounds and memories, or misunderstandings and rejections, of guilt, insecurity, anger and hatred, or pride and vanity and every kind of human weakness.

Some see freedom as a chance to possess. But if you possess things so tightly that you can never give them up, you become a prisoner of your possession. True freedom is found when what

Goa needs a Nitish Kumar Orlando SA Da Silva, Carmona The state of Bihar was synonymous with lawlessness, corruption, mafia, the Zamindari system, and mass poverty. Like Goa, it possessed natural mineral resources. Nitish Kumar, Bihar’s chief minister was responsible for a complete turn around in its fortunes. Within two years, he single-handedly nipped lawlessness and corruption in the bud. Biharis have appreciated his effective administration.

Goa should do likewise. The political class has currently destroyed all that Goa possessed. Goans have taken to the streets and are fighting corruption, illegal mining, and lopsided development. Goa certainly needs a Nitish Kumar to save Goa for the future generation. Let us begin our search for a Nitish, commencing with the CCP polls.

Portuguese names Leo Fernandes, Mumbai We would first like to rechristen our freedom fighter Flaviano Dias who possesses a name with a distinctly Portuguese flavour, instead of renaming the streets and roads of Goa. They should instead look after the welfare of Goans, ie., construct a shed with a raised platform for the fisher folk, with water taps, toilet facilities, proper lighting and garbage collection facilities in all village markets.

Only at ‘Sammelan’ time Jerson D’Silva, Margao Apropos the two letters ‘Accept Language Act’ by Ayres Sequeira and ‘Goans and Konkani’ by Augustus Alphonso. (Herald, 22 Feb). Well, the Roman script issue is a dead corpse with the likes of Tomazinho and Fr Conceicao exhuming it every year in the name of a ‘Sammelan’ organised solely for the purpose of utilising the funds

you treasure most highly, are values like goodness, kindness, unselfishness, and interest in others. These possessions will never hold you back to enslave you. They will strive for uniting and love and for serving that freedom which is rooted in the truth - free to love and to be loved!

The moment you drop all the negativeness, have nothing to protect and ambition for, freedom will arise, leading to self-discovery and growth. And freedom is just another word for love. If you have internal strength, external setbacks won’t keep you down.If everyone in the world had this freedom, setting straight the crooked lines and false values, the prisons and cages and chains human beings use to imprison other humans, would rust away with disuse.

We have become so sophisticated, so enmeshed in the trappings of the modern world, that we have been enriched in a lot of ways and impoverished in more important ways.

Right now, what you and I can do about this, I am not sure. Maybe, just being aware of the situation, perhaps doing what we can to change or better it, could be one way to somehow get the ball rolling...

Letters to the Editor

Letter of the Day

home and property. Several common diseases can be transmitted to people through feces, including roundworms, salmonella, and e-coli. All of these diseases are serious.

Despite polite requests and stern warnings, these dog owners continue causing nuisance and inconvenience to others. It’s easy to train a dog but difficult to train illmannered humans.

By Marc de Souza

doled out by the government to shun their cries.

Tomazinho calls the Language Act as the greatest controversy. But was he not part of the Konkani Porjecho Avaz, that spearheaded the Konkani agitation? If he was so serious of the Roman script injustice, he had a chance to do it when he was the Speaker, as the government would do anything in return for the ‘tiatr’ staged by him.

The issue came up only after Tomazinho retired when needed extra finances. With the ‘Tiatr’ Academy he has got what he wanted and so the call for justice to Roman script will arise only at the next ‘Samelan.’

Till then RIP Roman Script.

What is he up to?

Fr Mousinho de Ataide, Rachol In his key-note address at the Konkani (Romi Lipi) Sammelan Tomazinho Cardozo is reported to have called for English medium in primary education, with Konkani as the compulsory second language only.

So, according to him, Konkani is not even fit to be a medium of primary education.

Is it only fit for entertainment and to covet “Puraskars”?

He raises the bogey of Devnagri, as being an impediment to the promotion of Konkani, including in education. It is headmasters and teachers like him who were never in favour of Konkani as a medium of primary education, who were the major

impediments.

Watch your backyard Frankie Rodriguez, New York Recently, the Salcete strongman stated that he would support his close aide Sardessai in Fatorda. I would suggest that he stops worrying about Fatorda and starts worrying about Navelim, where his foundation is very shaky. At the moment, neither Navelim or Benaulim stands good for his family.

This is simply because we have people who are now educated and can make decisions for themselves. People of Goa do not need “Talk the Walk” leaders who lead them. A few of these leaders should now understand that it is ‘Game Over’

Nightmare travel Bosco Fernandes, Panjim I recently travelled to Belgaum via Mollem.

It was a real nightmare to travel from Usgao Tisk to Mollem (a 15 km stretch). I have never seen the loaded mining trucks that form a serpentine queue which looks endless, on one side, and the empty trucks that zoom past on the other side. The indiscipline of the mining trucks as they try to overtake one another, coupled with the ever present dust and pollution, is beyond imagination. Common people, school children and daily commuters are the worst sufferers.

One wonders how many illegal mines operate in the area. With the sand extraction in North Goa and the mining in South Goa where all industrialists and ministers thrive, Goa is in for a natural disaster. We need to wake up and preserve our land and forests. Our ministers should listen to people’s voices and alleviate their present difficulties.

United Goan front Justin Fernandes, Panjim I fully support the views expressed by Rocky Dias in his letter ‘Form united Goan front’ (Herald, 17 Feb). The Congress and BJP-led governments have only contributed to Goa’s ruin. The United Goan Front should be formed by Niz Goenkar and there should be no place for any politicians or any family members.

Paths of Wisdom Basava Basava or Basaveshwara (1134–1196) was a philosopher and a social reformer. He is also called Vishwa Guru and BhaktiBhandari. He was a great humanitarian and preached a new way of life wherein the divine experience being the centre of life regardless of gender, belief, tradition, religion, caste, social status or whatever. The key aspect of his preaching is monotheistic concept of God. A true visionary with ideas ahead of his time; he envisioned a society that flourished enriching one and all. He was a great mystic of his time and originated a literary revolution through his literary creation called Vachana Sahitya. He was an idealist by choice, a statesman by profession, (He was the Prime Minister of the Southern Kalachuri Empire in South India) a man of letters by taste, a humanist by sympathy, and a social reformer by conviction.

Basava fought against the inhuman practice of caste system, which discriminated people based on their birth, and certain rituals in Hinduism. These are rational and progressive social thoughts coupled with established perception of God in Hindu society. “Brahmanical thought” interprets the Vachanas as essence of vedic knowledge while attempting to explain the social revolution, Basava was able to bring in.

But this theory however fails to explain why other well known religious cult leaders like Shankaracharya, Ramanujacharya and Madhwacharya, who were very well acquainted with vedic knowledge, did not address the issues, which Basava did in later part of the history in 12th century.

Basava did not preach people the intricate aspects of spirituality; but, he taught people how to live happily in a rational social order later came to be known as veerashaiva Dharma, “Sampradaya”) or Lingavanta Dharma; which is also known as Lingayata.

(Source : Wikipedia)

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OHERALDO

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GoA

GOA, THURSDAY, 24 FEBRUARY, 2011

Junior artistes urged to work for success HERALD CORRESPONDENT MAYEM, FEB 23

Member Secretary of Goa Kala Academy Dr Pandurang Faldesai has called upon junior singer artistes to work ceaselessly to achieve success to fulfil the dream of their beloved gurujis (preacher).

He was addressing the gathering after inaugurating the 4th Pandit Mhadye and Pandit Rajabhau Dev Sangeet Sammelan organised by Shant Swarbrahma Sangeet Sanstha Bicholim in association with the Art and Culture Department at Deendayal Hall, Bicholim, on Sunday.

Bicholim MLA Rajesh Patnekar, renowned singer Dr Alka Dev Maulkar, Santosh Bhat and others were present on the occasion.

Patnekar called upon the young artistes to work hard for achieving success.

In her speech, Dr Alka dev Maulkar lauded the efforts of the organizers and said the motive behind organising such sangeet sammelans will be fulfilled only when a disciple artiste will sit on the place of his beloved preacher by incessant efforts.

Shivanii Marulkar (Pune) and

Gauri Nayak Bhat and Pandit Kamlakar Naik performed classical singing, while Manavdas performed Satarwdan. They

were accompanied by Ulhas Velingkar, Nitin Korgaonkar, Rahul Gole, Amit Bhonsle, Amar Mopkar, Yogesh Raikar and Manjit

Mirajkar.

Govind Bhagat compered the function, while Gauri Bhat Nayak proposed the vote of thanks.

Bicholim MLA lauds Gomantak Marathi Academy HERALD CORRESPONDENT MAYEM, FEB 23

Bicholim MLA Rajesh Patnekar has stated that the efforts taken

by Gomantak Marathi Academy in organising different drama contests has resulted in creation of standard artistes from Goa, enabling the State to set up its own stage in the field of drama.

He was addressing the gathering after inaugurating the one act play contest organised by Gomantak Marathi Academy at Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, Naiknagar-Bordem, Bicholim, on Sunday.

Academy President Narendra Assagaonkar, Bicholim Municipal Council Deputy Chairperson Shashikant Halarnkar, Councilor Narayan Betkikar and Vijay Telang were present on the occasion.

Government of India

Smt. Sonia Gandhi Chairperson, UPA

Dr. Manmohan Singh Prime Minister

““Everytime Everytime a bulb is switched on,

davp 22111/13/0047/1011

my children's future becomes brighter”

Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana • By 2012, electrification of all villages proposed.

• Free electricity connection for more than 14 crore Below Poverty Line (BPL) families.

• Electricity provided to 91,759 unelectrified villages • ` 23869 Crore released for rural electrification projects upto 31st January,2011.

INDIA

OHERALDO

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GOA, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2011

Telangana demand paralyses LS PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 23

The demand for a separate Telangana state paralysed proceedings in the Lok Sabha till afternoon with the TRS, as also members of TDP and Congress from the region, vying with each other to raise the ticklish issue.

The House witnessed three adjournments till 2 PM as TRS chief K Chandrashekhar Rao and his party colleague M Vijaya Shanthi, repeatedly stormed the well to press for their adjournment motion on the issue.

Several Congress members, including M Jagannath, Madhu Goud Yaskhi, Poonam Prabhakar and Sar vey Satyanarayana, raised slogans like 'Jai Telangana', while TDP member from Adilabad, Ramesh Rathod joined the TRS members in the well.

Leader of the Opposition Sushma Swaraj drew the attention of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who was present in the House for some time, to the sentiments being expressed by the members demanding a separate state to be carved out of

Andhra Pradesh.

As soon as the House assembled for the day, the two TRS members walked into the well on the issue as Congress MPs stood in their seats raising slogans, even before Speaker Meira Kumar could take up the Question Hour.

She adjourned the House first for about 30 minutes and again till noon as the din continued.

When the Lok Sabha assembled at noon, the Speaker directed laying of papers. But with protests unabated, she adjourned the House till 2 pm.

Swaraj made a strong plea for a separate Telangana, saying her party would support a bill for a separate state if the Government moved it in the current session.

"Everything has come to a standstill in Telangana region.

If anything is going on, it is firing of rubber bullets. This can be resolved right way, the Prime Minister is sitting here. If he says that government will bring a bill for a separate Telangana, we will support it," she said.

OHERALDO

Pg 11

WORLD

GOA, THURSDAY, 24 FEBRUARY, 2011

Kadhafi rallies supporters as grip on power slips

US reassures revolt shaken UNSC demands Gulf allies

AFP TRIPOLI, FEB 23

Libya's Moamer Kadhafi rallied his supporters to crush an uprising against his four-decade rule as he was accused Wednesday by ex-colonial power Italy of perpetrating a "horrible bloodbath."

"Capture the rats," the veteran leader said of anti-regime demonstrators during a rambling and angry speech on national television late Tuesday, as terrified foreigners on Wednesday sought to flee the oil-rich nation.

"Go out of your homes and storm them" wherever they are, he thundered, threatening to purge opponents "house by house" and "inch by inch" before dramatically declaring he would die a martyr in Libya.

His fiery intervention came as he fought against becoming the third veteran Arab leader to be toppled in a popular uprising after the presidents of neighbouring Egypt and Tunisia were both ousted in recent weeks.

But his grip on power appeared to be slipping as Italy's Foreign Minister Franco Frattini on Wednesday said he had lost control of the eastern province

immediate end to violence PTI UNITED NATIONS, FEB 23

Egyptians carry their luggage as they return from Libya through the Salloum border crossing, in Salloum, Egypt.

of Cyrenaica.

"Cyrenaica is no longer under the control of the Libya government and there are outbreaks of violence across the country," Frattini said in Rome, calling for an end to "this horrible bloodbath."

Further eroding his support, Kadhafi's interior minister Abdel Fatah Yunes resigned and called on the armed forces to back the

week-long rebellion against the veteran leader.

As the Middle East turmoil pushed oil prices ever higher and convulsed stock markets worldwide, governments in Europe, Asia and the United States mobilised planes and ships to ferry their citizens out of Libya.

The Sunni rulers of Bahrain were confronted by fresh mass protests despite a call by em-

13 terrorists hit by Israeli fire, 3 killed AFP GAZA CITY, FEB 23

An Israeli tank wounded eleven Palestinians terrorists, two critically, when it opened fire on a group of terrorists east of Gaza City on Wednesday, an emergency services spokesman said.

Eleven Palestinians terrorists

“were injured by tank shell in an area east of Gaza City. Two of them are in critical condition," Adham Abu Selmiya of the Hamas-run rescue service told AFP, saying they had been taken to the city's Shifa hospital.

Three of the injured were terrorists from the Al Quds Brigade,

the armed wing of the radical Islamist Jihad movement, a statement from the group said.

"Three of our fighters were injured while firing two mortar shells towards Israeli tanks which were operating inside the (Gaza) border," the statement said.

battled King Hamad bin Issa alKhalifa for dialogue and his pardon of 25 leading Shiite opposition activists.

One day after a mass demonstration clogged the main roads of Manama, Shiite protesters again crowded Pearl Square on Wednesday, chanting: "We are brothers, Sunnis and Shiites.

We shall not abandon this country."

Seeking an immediate end to violence in Libya that has killed "hundreds of civilians," India and 14 other members of the UN Security Council have asked the regime of Moammar Gaddafi to address the legitimate demands of the people protesting against his 41-year rule.

The Security Council "condemned the violence and use of force against civilians, deplored the repression against peaceful demonstrators and expressed deep regret at the deaths of hundreds of civilians", following a closed-door meeting of the powerful body last night.

In a statement issued in response to a violent crackdown against pro-democracy protesters in Libya, the 15 members of the Council "called for an immediate end to the violence and for steps to address the legitimate demands of the population, including through national dialogue."

FROM PAGE 1 Pawar wants him back

minister said in a telephonic conversation.

They further added, “However, Pawar does not want Mickky’s induction at a cost which could wipe off his party in Goa.” “The NCP understands that withdrawing support and expelling the two ministers – Jose Philip and Nilkanth Halarnkar from the party would mean that the duo would jump to join the Congress if Pawar presses the quit button on them,” sources added.

“Hence no decision has been taken in this regard since it will only disseminate the party in Goa and that too when polls are just a year away,” sources contended.

Congress General Secretary B K Hariprasad, incharge of Goa desk, told Herald that his party is just waiting for Pawar’s next move.

“We do not expect it to come about soon as the defection law will not come in the way if the NCP ministers want to join the Congress, if their party decides to expel them,” he said.

4 cops suspended Balesh was involved in the sensational Samir Mapari killing in 2007. Deshpande said both the constables had accompanied Balesh to the primary health centre at Chicalim late night after he complained of uneasiness.

Admitting that the two incidents were complete breach of discipline, Deshpande said all precautions will be taken by the department to see such incidents are not repeated in future.

Meanwhile, Deshpande said human rights intervention force police personnel not to handcuff prisoners. Secondly, shortage of buses for the Escort Cell results in prisoners being transported in regular buses, he mentioned.

The SP observed under trialswere not handcuffed on their way to court or while being taken for medical examination, which gives them a chance to run away.

AFP ABU DHABI, FEB 23

Washington's highest-ranking military officer and its top Middle East diplomat are touring the Gulf this week to reassure allies in oil-rich nations, as bloody uprisings rock the region.

Admiral Mike Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, visited Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates this week as part of a tour that was scheduled well before the uprisings.

Members of is entourage said he may also stop in Bahrain -home of the US Fifth Fleet -which has been gripped by a popular revolt challenging the rule of the Sunni dynasty in power for over 200 years.

The top US diplomat for the Middle East Jeffrey Feltman has also embarked on a tour of Arab Gulf states Tuesday and is expected to visit Bahrain as well.

The State Department said Feltman would also visit Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and the UEA to press for political and economic reform, saying there was a "critical need to address" such calls for change.

China pledges to revive Korean N-talks AFP SEOUL, FEB 23

China will work to revive stalled talks on North Korea's nuclear disarmament and to maintain peace on the Korean peninsula, Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said during a visit to South Korea.

But Yang, in comments before he began private talks with his counterpart Kim Sung-Hwan, did not mention the North's uranium enrichment programme, which has sparked international concern.

China will seek an early resumption of the talks "to realise denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula and normalisation of relations between related countries", Yang said.

The talks, which group the two Koreas, the United States, China, Japan and Russia, have been stalled since December 2008. The North abandoned them in April 2009 and conducted a second nuclear test a month later.

APPOINTMENTS

Frantic hunt on for NZ quake survivours AFP CHRISTCHURCH, FEB 23

Hundreds of rescuers swarmed over twisted and smoking buildings Wednesday in a frantic search for survivors after New Zealand's catastrophic earthquake left nearly 400 dead or missing.

Emergency services cordoned off central Christchurch, which was devastated by Tuesday's shallow, 6.3-magnitude tremor, to hunt for anyone still alive along with an unknown number of bodies buried in the rubble.

Prime Minister John Key declared a national emergency as 75 bodies were recovered, while about 30 people were rescued overnight. About 300 people are still missing after New Zealand's worst natural disaster in 80 years.

Key said the quake had "wreaked death and destruction on a dreadful scale" in the country's second biggest city, six months after a 7.0-magnitude quake shook buildings violently

in Christchurch but miraculously caused no deaths.

APPOINTMENTS

Biz12:Pg12 2/23/2011 10:00 PM Page 1

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Pg 12 ‘Finmin may approve 9.5% on PF’ PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 23

Labour and Employment Minister Mallikarjun Kharge today exuded confidence that Finance Ministry is likely to approve by March-end the EPFO proposal to give 9.5 per cent

interest on provident fund deposits for 2010-11.

"The Ministry of Labour and Employment has forwarded the recommendation of CBT to the Ministry of Finance for approval... We are pursuing it...We will try our best so that

Sensex falls 118 points PTI MUMBAI, FEB 23

The BSE benchmark Sensex fell 118 points today to 18,178.33 in late sell-off in banking, IT and realty stocks amid concerns that rising oil prices due to unrest in the Middle East will stoke inflation, leading to hike in interest rates.

The Bombay Stock Exchange 30-share barometer initially moved in a narrow range between the positive and the negative regions till late mid-session, ahead of the expiry of February derivatives contract series tomorrow.

However, fag-end off-loading pulled down the Sensex to 18,178.33, a net fall of 117.83 points or 0.64 per cent. Yesterday, it had lost 142.15 points.

we can get approval by March... We are hoping that Finance Minister may definitely give approval," Kharge told the Rajya Sabha during the question hour.

He was replying to a question by CPI-M member R C

Aban Offshor, 557.5, 576, 550.6, 567.95 Abb Ltd., 658.05, 714.8, 638.65, 695.15 Abg Shipyard, 366, 373.95, 360.1, 367.2 Acc Limited, 1007, 1022, 1002.05, 1014.1 Adani Enterp, 621.45, 626.8, 606.6, 610.85 Aditya Birla, 782, 789.45, 766.3, 781.25 Allahabad Ba, 205, 206, 201.35, 202.1 Alstom Proje, 561.1, 565, 555, 558.15 Ambuja Cemen, 124.9, 126, 121.25, 124.55 Andhra Bank, 147, 147.2, 142.8, 144.1 Ashok Leylan, 49.3, 49.85, 47.35, 47.5 Asian Paints, 2480.05, 2499, 2452.2, 2478.05 Axis Bank Li, 1259.95, 1279, 1251.3, 1255 Bajaj Hindus, 73, 74.45, 72.55, 73.15 Bank Of Baro, 872.05, 898.8, 872.05, 880.9 Bank Of Indi, 435.1, 453.55, 434.1, 448.9 Beml Limited, 665, 673.3, 658.95, 660.4 Bharat Elect, 1640.1, 1677.95, 1640.1, 1670.75 Bharat Forge, 312.5, 318.45, 312.5, 317 Bharat Petro, 561, 568.3, 557.15, 562.75 Bharti Airte, 329, 337.25, 325.85, 328.2 Bhel, 2079, 2084.7, 2033.15, 2038.85 Bhushan Stee, 400, 405, 393.05, 399.7 Biocon Limit, 331.5, 332.9, 323, 324.15 Bombay Dyein, 348.25, 354.95, 341.3, 343.3

Singh on the issue of interest rate on provident fund deposits.

The Central Board of Trustees (CBT), the apex decision making body of Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), has decided to give a higher return of 9.5 per cent on provident fund deposits for 2010-11.

The decision, which will benefit 4.71 crore PF subscribers, followed the discovery of Rs 1,731.57 crore in suspense account. The EPFO trustees favoured raising the rate of interest on provident fund deposits to 9.5 per cent from 8.5 per cent, which is being paid by EPFO since 2005-06.

Bosch Limite, 5970, 6068, 5970, 6020.15 Brigade Ente, 97.2, 98.9, 96, 96.3 Cairn India, 332.6, 334.65, 324.95, 327.2 Canara Bank, 588.1, 595.7, 573.1, 578 Central Bank, 154.5, 155.9, 151.1, 153.15 Century Text, 334.95, 343.5, 331.6, 335.2 Cesc Ltd, 301.5, 306, 301.5, 305 Chambal Fert, 73.65, 74.75, 72.6, 74.1 Chennai Petr, 195.5, 197.9, 192.7, 193.85 Cipla Ltd, 305, 307.9, 302, 303.15 Colgate Palm, 807.95, 815, 807, 809 Container Co, 1071.55, 1120, 1071.55, 1102.4 Crompton Gre, 259, 261.55, 258.85, 260 Cummins Indi, 640, 654, 640, 650.15 Dabur India, 95.9, 99, 95.5, 98.2 Deccan Chron, 66.3, 69.75, 65.7, 67.05 Dish Tv Indi, 58.3, 59.25, 57.55, 57.85 Divi’s Labor, 628.85, 629, 616.05, 620.05 Dlf Limited, 227, 230.25, 218.7, 219.85 Dr. reddy’s, 1546, 1595, 1546, 1578.05 Edelweiss Ca, 37.45, 37.45, 36.25, 36.55 Educomp Solu, 484.95, 495, 482, 486.2 Eih Limited, 87, 87.95, 84.1, 84.45 Engineers In, 290, 290, 286, 287.65 Essar Oil Lt, 107.95, 109.45, 106.05, 108.35

BIZ

GOA, THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY, 2011

3G services by fiscal-end: Vodafone PTI MUMBAI, FEB 23

Telecom operator, Vodafone Essar, today said its plans to roll-out its 3G services in a phased manner by end-this fiscal.

"We have a 3G-ready network, currently in optimization which we will be launching very quickly," Vodafone Essar Director (Enterprise and Carrier Business), Naveen Chopra told reporters here.

Presently, trials are on and the service is expected to be launched in a phased manner

by March, he said.

The roll-out will be on citywise basis and not pan-India or state-wise, Chopra said.

The telecom firm, which recently launched fixed line data and voice services for enterprise customers or mobile corporate customers is eyeing to double its revenue from such customers in five-years, he said.

"Currently it is in the region of 8-10 per cent. And it should be doubling (in five-years)," he said.

Essar Shippi, 80.5, 80.5, 76.75, 78.45 Exide Indust, 116.3, 132.9, 116.3, 131.5 Federal Bank, 353, 355, 347.5, 348.95 Financial Te, 822, 838, 805.4, 822 Gail (india), 441, 447.1, 438.6, 443.45 Gammon India, 120, 126.4, 116.65, 119.95 Glaxosmithkl, 2220, 2230.05, 2205.15, 2221.65 Glenmark Pha, 283.2, 286.85, 282, 284.8 Gmr Infrastr, 41.05, 41.3, 39.4, 40.5 Godrej Indus, 166, 169.3, 164.45, 165 Grasim Indus, 2275, 2339.9, 2262.75, 2274.95 Great Offsho, 254.05, 255.3, 245, 247.5 Gtl Infra.Lt, 37.75, 37.95, 37.3, 37.7 Gujarat Mine, 113.2, 114.4, 109, 113.05 Gujarat N R, 45.5, 46.9, 45.05, 45.15 Gujarat Stat, 96, 97.2, 93.7, 94.2 Gvk Pow. & I, 27.25, 27.5, 26.85, 27.3 Hcl Technolo, 456.45, 465.9, 453.1, 459.65 Hdfc Bank Lt, 2125.2, 2153, 2100.2, 2114.1 Hdfc Ltd, 642.7, 661.5, 641.8, 647 Hero Honda M, 1387, 1517.7, 1378, 1472.3 Hindalco in, 211.25, 215.7, 210.4, 212.4 Hindustan Co, 35.3, 36.25, 35, 35.25 Hindustan Ma, 65.3, 67.3, 64.5, 64.9 Hindustan Pe, 318, 324, 314.9, 319.6

IEX launches Renewable Energy Certificate trading PTI MUMBAI, FEB 23

Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) launched trading of Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) on its platform today.

A total buy bid of 125 nonsolar REC and 11 solar REC was received in the first trading session, the country's leading electricity exchange said here.

This is a great milestone in the history of renewable energy in India. It will create new opportunities for renewable and co-generation power plants, an IEX release said.

"IEX is committed to prove its power market acumen by creating a complete marketplace not only for electricity but also for REC market," IEX Managing Director and Chief Executive Jayant Deo said.

"We have some critical mass available with us in form of utilities from 25 states and four Union Territories, 110 captive generators and over 655 industrial consumers, who are currently participat-

Hindustan Un, 278.5, 282, 278, 280.1 Hindustan Zi, 1250.9, 1291, 1250.85, 1282.35 Housing Dev, 155, 157.95, 153.05, 154.05 Icici Bank L, 1019, 1029.8, 1003.1, 1006.1 Idea Cellula, 61.3, 61.3, 58.9, 59.65 Ifci Ltd, 51.95, 52.15, 51, 51.2 India Cement, 93.35, 94.25, 92.65, 93.4 India Infoli, 69.2, 73.1, 69, 71.6 Indiabulls F, 140, 153.5, 138.1, 148.85 Indiabulls R, 108, 110, 106.55, 107 Indian Bank, 215.3, 216.9, 211.5, 212.95 Indian Hotel, 81.9, 83, 80.45, 82.05 Indian Oil C, 304.5, 305.75, 300, 303.5 Indian Overs, 134.25, 134.7, 128.2, 129.45 Indus Dev Ba, 133.9, 135.8, 132.5, 133.9 Indusind Ban, 234, 237.85, 227.15, 229.6 Infosys Tech, 3105.9, 3105.9, 3070.05, 3078.8 Infra. dev., 139.15, 139.65, 133.5, 134.95 Ispat Indust, 23.15, 23.15, 22.7, 22.8 Itc Ltd, 157, 157.5, 155.1, 155.6 Ivrcl Infras, 70.15, 72.3, 69.5, 69.85 Jai Corp Lim, 178, 186.4, 178, 181.25 Jaiprakash A, 84.9, 87.25, 83.55, 83.75 Jet Airways, 435, 435, 418.1, 421.3 Jindal Saw L, 205.5, 208.5, 204.2, 204.6

ing on IEX for trading in electricity. They will be active in REC market too."

RECs represent the attributes of electricity generated from renewable energy sources. One REC represents that 1MWh of energy is generated from renewable sources.

REC trading will be through closed double-sided auction on the last Wednesday of every month.

RECs can be used by the obligated entities (distribution licensees, captive consumers & open access consumers) to demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements, such as renewable purchase obligations. There are two categories of certificates - solar and non-solar.

REC represents delivery of 1 MWh of renewable energy to the grid and all associated environmental benefits of displacing 1 MWh of conventional power.

RECs are expected to become the currency of renewable energy markets because of their flexibility and the fact

Jindal Steel, 674, 678, 668.25, 670.3 Jsw Steel Li, 901, 913.9, 886.5, 891.7 Kotak Mahind, 408.05, 411.8, 405.25, 407.95 Lakshmi Mach, 2075.05, 2145, 2070, 2082.15 Lanco Infrat, 38.7, 39.15, 37.5, 37.85 Larsen & Tou, 1600.35, 1626.5, 1597, 1600.95 Lic Housing, 192, 194.5, 188.05, 188.8 Lupin Limite, 409.95, 411, 401.25, 404.55 Mahanagar Te, 43.5, 44.9, 43.25, 43.45 Mahindra & M, 641, 648.8, 633.5, 640.6 Maruti Suzuk, 1178, 1202.6, 1178, 1192.5 Max India Lt, 143.5, 146, 143.5, 144.9 Moser-baer (, 39.8, 40.75, 39.5, 39.85 Mrpl, 61.5, 61.9, 60.35, 60.7 Nagarjuna Co, 100, 105.6, 99.25, 101.45 Nagarjuna Fe, 28.8, 29.05, 28.25, 28.45 National Alu, 409.9, 414, 407.4, 412.3 Neyveli Lign, 101.8, 103.6, 101.1, 101.4 Ntpc Ltd, 175, 176.8, 172.15, 172.9 Oil And Natu, 272.65, 275, 270.1, 271.55 Omaxe Limite, 133.7, 134.45, 128.1, 131.8 Oriental Ban, 325.1, 335.75, 325.1, 326.75 Pantaloon Re, 267.9, 282.3, 267, 280.15 Parsvnath De, 30.2, 31.4, 30.1, 30.35 Petronet Lng, 114.5, 114.6, 112.5, 112.8

that they are not subject to the geographic and physical limitations of commodity electricity.

BOARD MEETINGS Stovec Inds KSB Pumps Database Fin Mphasis Oswal Spinning Source: Indiainfoline.com

Power Fin Co, 245, 247.75, 244.55, 246 Power Grid C, 98.5, 100.25, 98.5, 99.6 Praj Industr, 69.45, 71.35, 69.3, 70.75 Punj Lloyd L, 67, 67.35, 63.65, 63.9 Punjab Natio, 1065, 1078, 1053, 1058.5 Rajesh Expor, 135, 137.75, 131.2, 132 Ranbaxy Labs, 485.6, 487, 458.65, 461.8 Rashtriya Ch, 84.15, 85.85, 83.75, 84.2 Reliance Cap, 452.6, 484, 452.5, 470.55 Reliance Com, 94.4, 98.9, 94, 96.45 Reliance Ene, 1040.31, 1057.99, 1040.31, 1057.36 Reliance Ind, 705, 741.4, 699.2, 708.1 Reliance Ind, 986.4, 1002.3, 985, 995.65 Reliance Pow, 114.8, 117.4, 113.65, 114.25 Rolta India, 144.6, 144.9, 141.35, 142.3 Satyam Compu, 63, 63.95, 61.75, 62.3 Sesa Goa Ltd, 299, 301.35, 293.3, 297.3 Shipping Cor, 104.85, 106.95, 104.2, 104.6 Siemens Ltd, 837.9, 848.65, 837.9, 844 Sintex Indus, 147.9, 149.75, 146.1, 147.1 Sobha Develo, 254.75, 258.95, 251.2, 252.4 State Bank O, 2710, 2720.9, 2609.4, 2617.65 Steel Author, 156.5, 158.8, 154, 155.2 Sterlite Ind, 167.7, 173.6, 167.05, 169.45 Sun Pharmace, 421.5, 424.9, 414.25, 416.2

Sun Tv Netwo, 391, 401.8, 386, 392 Suzlon Energ, 45.8, 46.2, 45.05, 45.2 Tata Communi, 209.4, 224.45, 209.4, 219.35 Tata Consult, 1128.15, 1144.95, 1123.1, 1125.55 Tata Motors, 1135, 1163, 1130.1, 1143.9 Tata Power C, 1239, 1245, 1200.35, 1204.75 Tata Steel L, 622.9, 737, 614.45, 627 Tata Teleser, 15.3, 15.7, 15.3, 15.5 Tech Mahindr, 688.7, 691.75, 670, 683.45 The Ge Shpg., 256, 261, 250.5, 252.1 The Phoenix, 177.05, 178, 173.15, 177.75 Thermax Ltd, 610, 614, 595.15, 601.45 Titan Indust, 3450, 3479.95, 3413.05, 3436.25 Torrent Powe, 225.1, 230.95, 223.2, 229.15 Triveni Engg, 85, 87.3, 84, 86.2 Tv18 India L, 79, 79.85, 77.5, 77.9 Uco Bank, 103.55, 105.45, 101.2, 101.7 Ultratech Ce, 955.4, 976.7, 945, 968.9 Union Bank O, 325, 329.5, 318.5, 325.75 Unitech Ltd, 34.8, 36.7, 34.4, 35.2 United Phosp, 135.1, 136.4, 131.1, 131.65 Videocon Ind, 194.4, 200.8, 190.15, 195.5 Vijaya Bank, 81.5, 81.8, 80, 80.35 Voltas Ltd, 168.05, 172.75, 163.35, 164.1 Wipro Ltd, 445.3, 445.9, 433.4, 436.8 Yes Bank Lim, 274, 276, 267.1, 268.25 Zee Entertai, 116.25, 118, 116.25, 117.25

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Assocham for phased ban on iron ore exports AGENCY NEW DELHI, FEB 23

Leading industry body Assocham has called for discouraging iron ore exports by increasing export tax on fines and lumps from 5% and 15% to uniformly 30% of the FoB price.

This will lead to a revenue generation of Rs 200 billion.

India produced 215 million tonnes of iron ore in 2008-09 and exported 106 million tonnes of it. Of the 129 million tonnes of fines produced, 92 million ton were exported. In the case of lumps, the production was 86 million tonnes while exports totaled 14 million tonnes. ``Private iron ore miners have created a myth that fines are in excess as the steel industry is not equipped to use them. This is a total distortion of facts as most integrated steel plants use sinter and pel-

lets where fines are used extensively,” said D S Rawat, secretary general of the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham).

The iron and steel industry consumed 63.41 million tonnes of iron ore fines and 31.79 million tonnes of iron ore lumps in 2008-09. After accounting for domestic consumption, only 65.5 million tonnes is left for exports. But export data shows India exported 92 million tonnes of fines in the same period.

“There is clearly a mismatch of production and exports. To save duty, lumps are being converted into fines for exports to China. The analogy of mining industry that fines are unutilised in the country is totally inappropriate and baseless,” said Rawat adding the production of iron ore was increased solely to cater to Chi-

nese market.

The export of iron ore is also promoting illegal mining in the country with profits going to mine owners who have little social and environmental concerns. If there is restriction on exports, all fines will be consumed by the expanding steel industry.

India has 25.6 billion tonnes of iron ore reserves scattered across Jharkhand, Orissa, Chattisgarh, Karnataka and Goa of which only seven billion tonnes are proven and the rest probable and possible. In terms of per capita reserves, India scores only 21 tonnes in comparison to Brazil`s 333 tonnes, the Russian Federation`s 389 ton and Australia`s 2,000 ton.

Assocham said the government should ban iron ore exports in a phased manner with a complete restriction by 201516.

VW to launch new Passat PTI MUMBAI, FEB 23

European car-maker, Volkswagen, today said it will launch the all new edition of Passat in India with BlueMotion technologies by March this year.

"We will launch the all new edition of Passat in the Indian market by March 2011. It will be launched at the same time as the 'Think Blue' campaign is introduced in the country," Volkswagen Group Sales India's Director, Neeraj Garg said.

"The all new Volkswagen Passat will come to India with BlueMotion features like start stop, brake energy recuperation, DSG duel clutch gear box, gear shift indicator and an extremely fuel efficient engine," he said.

The company will introduce its 'Think Blue' campaign in the country at the end of the first quarter this year, he said.

Garg, however, did not reveal the price of the all new Passat.

Oil min wants duty cut on crude oil, petro products PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 23

As crude oil prices climbed to a two-and-half year high of USD 108 per barrel, the Petroleum Ministry is pinning hopes on customs and excise duty cut in the Union Budget to avoid hiking petrol and diesel prices.

"The spurt in international oil prices following crisis in Libya has meant that the difference between domestic retail selling price and the imported cost widens. This situation is not sustainable," an oil ministry official said.

The basket of crude oil India buys yesterday touched USD 105.05 per barrel, necessitating a hike in fuel prices.

"With Parliament in session, I dont see it will be possible to even raise price of petrol, which had been freed from government control in June last year," the official said.

"Also, there are concerns of

MindTree inks 2 multi-year deals PTI BANGALORE, FEB 23

MindTree Limited, a global IT Solutions and Product Engineering Services company, today announced two exclusive multi-year and multi-million dollar partnerships in the area of IT Infrastructure Management Services.

The combined deal size is over 70 Million USD in the next five years, the company said in a release here today.

The customers are one of the largest information and communication technology (ICT) service-providers in Europe; and a leading US-based bank, it said.

MindTree will use its managed services platform MWatch to provide IMS as Managed Services from India. Specific areas of work include application and infrastructure support services, telecom support services, and remote desktop management services.

"These two deals, one of which is from a European customer, are significant and position us well to be considered for larger scale IMS engagements in the futur", said Ram C Mohan, senior vice president and Head of Infrastructure Management and Technical Support (IMTS) at MindTree Limited.

TALK BUSINESS

Belmonte opens showroom at Panjim, Margao PANJIM (HBD) -- Belmonte, the young menswear brand launched its exclusive new concept showrooms at Belmonte, Shop No 7, opposite Hotel Fidalgo and Guru Sai Plaza, Shop No 10 and 11 at Margao.

The showrooms will showcase the Spring Summer 2011 Collection with a wide range of ready-to-wear garments and accessories.

Belmonte's formal range includes suits, blazers, trousers and formal shirts for corporate wear. The casual range includes a wide collection of jackets, smart and trendy T-shirts, denim shirts, jeans, chinos and cargos for relaxed evenings. Customers will have wide selection of accessories from cufflinks, ties, leather belts, socks, kerchiefs and more.

With demand growing across the country the brand is expanding its exclusive store network aggressively to be close to its customers across the country. Belmonte is available across all leading cities of the country through large format stores, multi-brand outlets and exclusive brand outlets.

Gandhi Shilp Crafts Bazaar opens at Baga.

Shantaram Naik, MP lighting the lamp to inaugurate Gandhi Shilp Crafts Bazaar at Baga. Also seen is Sameer Salgaoncar chairman of GHRSSIDC and Grudas Natekar.

PANJIM (HBD) -- The Goa Handicrafts, Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation Limited (GHRSSIDC) organised a Gandhi Shilp Crafts Bazaar at GTDC grounds, Baga.

This is Goa’s biggest all India handicrafts exhibition sponsored

by Development Commission (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India and was inaugurated by Member of Parliament Shantaram Naik in the presence of chairman of GHRSSIDC Sameer Salgaoncar recently.

The ten-day exhibition housed handicrafts stalls for display and sale of diverse range of items including artificial jewellery, leather toys, terracotta, textiles from the various states of India.

The craft bazaar will be opened till February 27.

Kumar appointed new Dy chairman of MPT PANJIM (HBD) -- Biplav Kumar, IRTS, took over as the new deputy chairman of Mormugao Port Trust (MPT), recently. His appointment was made by the Ministry of Shipping, Government of India.

Prior to joining MPT, the Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) officer of 1992 batch was the chairman in-charge and deputy chairman of Paradip Port Trust, Orissa.

He held several distinguished posts in both, the railway and port sectors. Prior to being appointed as Deputy Chairman of Paradip Port, Kumar was Director Tourism under the Ministry of Railways. He has held important positions in the railways, including senior divisional commercial manager, Dy chief operations manager and Director Tourism and Catering. After coming to Port sector, he was trained in Port Management at Antwerp.

Kumar has received national awards conferred by the Railway Minister in 2007 and the highest Zonal Award in 2004 for excellence in performance in individual capacity.

French former Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin (left), head of the movement 'Republique Solidaire' (RS) (Solidarity Republic), smiles as he visits the Paris International Agricultural fair, at the Porte de Versailles exhibition center, on Wednesday in Paris. Villepin will not renew in 2011 its membership in the right-wing ruling party UMP, said today Brigitte Girardin, RS general secretary, on the eve of a meeting between Villepin and French president Nicolas Sarkozy at the Elysee presidential Palace.

Tatas to set up Rs 1k cr housing projects PTI CHANDIGARH, FEB 23

Real estate developer Tata Housing Development Company today proposed to set up two residential projects in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh with an estimated investment of Rs 1,000 crore.

"We have plans to set up two (residential) projects in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, which will involve an investment of Rs 1,000 crore," company’s MD and CEO Brotin Banerjee told reporters here today.

Tata Housing, which is a subsidiary of Tata Sons Limited, is keen to build affordable and value homes in Punjab on Public Private Partnership mode over an area ranging 30-60 acres of land and a luxury housing project in Himachal Pradesh up to 10 acres of land.

"About 60 to 65 per cent of our investment (Rs 1,000 crore) will be made in Punjab and rest in HP," he said.

Bata India FY 10 profit up 42.6% PTI MUMBAI, FEB 23

Leading footwear-maker and retailer, Bata India, has witnessed a 42.6 per cent jump in its profit before tax at Rs 142.9crore for financial year-ending December 31. The company's PBT in the previous fiscal stood at Rs 100-crore.

Bata's net turnover for the full year stood at Rs 1,265.85crore as against Rs 1090.17crore in the year-ago period.

Meanwhile, overall sales in the last quarter ending December 31 grew by 23.5 per cent at Rs 356-crore as against Rs 288crore in the year-ago period.

"The year 2010 has been an incredible year for Bata India.

We have opened a record 108 stores during the year with each outlet having an area of more than 3,000 square feet.

With separate defined sections offering hundreds of designs, for men, ladies, children and youth, the new Bata stores offer a whole new experience to consumers," Bata India's Group MD Marcelo Villagran, said.

Stating that the company was looking to develop affordable homes in Ludhiana, Jalandhar and periphery of Chandigarh, he said the company wanted to develop this project on PPP mode in the wake of high land prices in the state.

"Land is quite costly in the state (Punjab) and it will not be feasible to develop low cost housing project viable… we are trying to develop houses in affordable segment in Punjab on PPP mode and we have also held preliminary meetings with state government officials in this regard," he said.

Smart Value Homes, a subsidiary of Tata Housing, is already undertaking development of affordable homes project in Maharashtra.

The company is also in talks with Karnataka government for setting up ‘Value Homes’ on PPP mode. It also intends to set

up a value homes project in Gujarat over 100 acres of land.

Smart Value Homes offers homes in the range of Rs 5 to Rs 7 lakh (400-600 square feet area) and Rs 10 to Rs 25 lakh (700-1200 square feet), respectively.

Tata Housing also intends to come up with a luxury housing project in HP. "We want to develop this project on the outskirts in Himachal Pradesh and for which we require 5 to 10 acres of land," he said.

Tata Housing is in the process of developing 45-50 million square feet of an area in several states like Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune, Goa etc.

"Out of total area (45-50 million square feet), 15-16 million square feet will developed by Smart Value Homes," he said.

Banerjee added the Tata Housing had been witnessing over 100 per CAGR in past three years.

Tatas seek real estate regulator PTI CHANDIGARH, FEB 23

Property developer Tata Housing today pitched for creation of a real estate regulator in the upcoming union budget to ensure fair play in the industry and protection of consumer interests.

It said the watchdog should be on the lines of those in banking, insurance and other industries.

"We want from the centre in the coming budget to set up a regulator exclusively for real estate segment as exists in banking, insurance and telecom sectors..

The main idea behind having a regulator is to protect the interest of customers and creation of level-playing field," said company’s MD and CEO Brotin Banerjee.

Banerjee added, "We have regulator for telecom, banks and stock market but we do not have any regulatory mechanism for real estate where customer makes big investments for housing needs."

Besides, the company also

sought drafting of a Public Private Partnership policy by the Centre and states for housing segment to encourage private investment.

Tata Housing, which is undertaking development of 45-50 million square feet in several states, also stressed upon having a PPP policy for real estate sector to bridge widening gap between demand and supply of houses.

"The Centre along with states should frame PPP policy for real estate in order to encourage private investment in housing projects so as to get rid of problem of housing shortage," he said.

According to Tata Housing, there is a shortage of 24-26 million houses in the country at present.

The company also wanted the Centre to grant industry status to realty sector and make loans available at softer rates to provide impetus to residential and commercial projects in the country.

the inflationary impact of the hike in prices particularly of diesel on food prices", the official said.

Petrol, whose prices were last raised by Rs 2.50 a litre in January, is being sold at a discount of Rs 2.50-2.75 a litre to its imported cost.

On diesel, state-owned Indian Oil Corp, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum lose Rs 10.74 a litre. Besides, they lose Rs 21.60 per litre on kerosene and Rs 356.07 per 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinder.

The three firms are currently losing Rs 430 crore per day and at current rates are projected to end the fiscal with Rs 76,559 crore revenue loss.

"If prices cannot be raised, the next best option to limit the impact of rising international oil prices is to reduce duties," the official said.

The ministry is hoping Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee in his Budget for 2010-11, to be presented on Monday, will abolish customs duty on crude oil and cut excise on petrol and diesel to avoid a further increase in retail prices.

It wants customs or import duty on crude oil to be reduced

to zero from 5 per cent at present.

Also it wants the customs duty on diesel slashed to 2.5 per cent from 7.5 per cent at present, along with a reduction in the specific excise duty imposed on the most-consumed fuel in the country.

"Eliminating customs duty on crude and correspondingly bringing down duty on finished products would reduce the under-recoveries (revenue loss on selling fuel below cost) that are compensated by the government," he said.

"Instead of collecting customs duty on crude and later refunding the same as underrecovery compensation, the government may eliminate the duty on crude as was done earlier," he said.

The average price of crude oil during 2008-09 was around USD 82 per barrel, when the duty on crude oil was reduced to zero. The average price of crude oil during 2010-11 has already crossed USD 82 per barrel and may increase further.

The abolition of customs duty on crude oil would reduce diesel under-recovery by Rs 1.48 per litre.

Peugeot looking to set up factory PTI AHMEDABAD, FEB 23

French auto major Peugeot is considering setting up a manufacturing facility in India and is scouting for land in Gujarat, a top state industry department official said today.

"A delegation from Peugeot recently visited us. They have evinced interest in setting up a plant in Gujarat, for which the land requirement was told to be 150 acres," the official said.

"We have shown them a site in Bol village near Sanand, which is a proposed industrial estate, to be developed as an automotive hub by the Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC), near Tata's Nano plant," he said.

"A final decision is expected to be taken soon by the Peugeot headquarters," the official said. "The govt has acquired 1,200 acres of land near Sanand and land allotment for industrial purposes is expected to commence in next three to four months." Inward Investment Officer of Embassy of France in India, Guillaume Page, who is in the city for trade promotion, said, "Yes I have also come to know that Peugeot is looking for land in Gujarat."

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SPORTS

GOA, Thursday, 24 February, 2011

Rachol Seminary jubilee match HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, FEB 23

Rachol Seminary will lock horns with St Xavier’s Hostelites in an exhibition soccer match to mark the 4th centenary celebrations of Rachol Seminary on February 24, at Rachol Seminary ground at 4.30 p.m.

“Through friendly soccer matches, the seminarians

strengthen their brotherly bond within their community and just like any other friendship the young seminarians help each other in strengthening their call to priesthood. The young seminarians witness Christ in all arenas of life may it be sports, studies or any other social activities,” stated Fr George Ratos.

St Xavier's Hostelites are being trained by Fr George Ratos while Rachol Seminarians are being coached by Fr Donato Rodrigues.

AIFF to sack Houghton has unanimously decided to seek Unhappy with the performance National championship for San- Prize money has been enhanced legal opinion reto Rs 15 lakh for the winners and of the Indian football team in the tosh Trophy 2010-11 will be held garding its course Rs 10 lakh for the runners up .

Asian Cup, the AIFF executive in April – May 2011 in Assam. The of action," an AIFF SAFF 2011 committee today decided to sack boarding lodging allowance for statement said. national coach Bob Houghton players have been increased to Will be held in December 2011 Houghton took in Orissa. from his post, but has sought Rs 700 player from the existing over as India legal opinion keeping in mind an Rs 450. Cash prize of Rs 5 lakh Nehru Cup coach in June imminent contract tangle with and Rs 3 lakh for the winners and Will be conducted as part of the 2006, replacing the Briton.

AIFF Platinum Jubilee celebraSyed Nayeemudrunners up team. tions in 2012.

The AIFF, categorically, said din under whom that if he is penalised on legal the facilities, India's performance was India had a series of poor performgrounds, it would not bear the ex- disappointing. So the AIFF executive ances. penses of Houghton, whose contract committee accepted the opinion of the Under Houghton, India played in the runs till 2013. technical committee in its review and Asian Cup after a gap of 27 years by The committee, which met today, decided to remove Houghton," a top virtue of winning the 2008 AFC Chaldecided to accept the recommendation lenge Cup. He also guided India to two of the technical committee which, in AIFF official told PTI on condition of Nehru Cup international tournament anonymity. its review, had expressed disappointwins in 2007 and 2009.

"The executive committee expressed ment at the performance of the national But in Doha, India lost all their three its concern over the performance of team in the continental event in Doha, group matches -- against Australia (0the national team and also expressed 4), Bahrain (2-5) and South Korea (1Qatar.

"In their report, the technical com- its unhappiness regarding the conduct 4).

In other important decisions, the mittee said that inspite of spending a and derogatory remarks made by Bob huge amount of money and giving all Houghton. The executive committee federation said that the Nehru Cup will PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 23

John turns 70 today HERALD SPORTS REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

John Dias, president of Sarzora Sports Club and former Treasurer of Goa Football Associat i o n ( G FA ) turns 70 on Thursday.

John has been closely associated with football promotion having raised Sarzora Sports Club of which he has been the chief for long time to a high level. Given his passion and commitment for football, he was elected Treasurer of GFA for a 4-year term in the GFA committee headed by Urban Development Minister, Joaquim Alemao and discharged his duties with aplomb, earning the appreciation of the clubs. His mannerism, amiable disposition coupled with simplicity and a friendly nature have been the hallmarks of his personality.

Narrow win for Chinchinim HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, FEB 23

Chinchinim Villagers Union scored a narrow 1-0 victory over Dicarpale SC to sail into the second round of inaugural match of Nagoa village panchayat soccer organised by Pax of Nagoa Sports Club at Nagoa panchayat ground on Wednesday. There was no score at half time.

Dicarpale’s Junad Fernandes found an easy sitter just before the final call.

Sarpanch, Joao Faria and special guest Fr Avinash Rebello alongwith panchas, Francis Valadares, Antonette Fernandes and Alexina Fernandes inaugurated the tournament.

GFA Second Division: Sao Minguel de Taleigao v. Goa Police SC, Taleigao ground, 4 p.m.

Nagoa inter-village panchayat soccer: Navelim Villagers Union v. Carmona SC, Nagoa panchayat ground, 4.30 p.m.

Laxmi and Subha soccer: Nerul SC v. Football Club of Siolim, Nerul ground, 4.30 p.m.

22nd St Rock super soccer: Chinchinim Union v. Don Bosco Oratory, Fatorda, 4.30 p.m.

Santosh Trophy

Federation Cup

be conducted as part of the AIFF Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2012.

Members and support staff of the team which won the inaugural SAFF Women's Football Championship in Dhaka, will be given a cash incentive of Rs 50,000, it was decided.

The Santosh Trophy 2010-11 will be held in Apr-May 2011 in Assam, and the boarding and lodging allowances for players, participating in the tournament, have been increased from Rs 450 to 700 per player. The winners will be richer by Rs 5 lakh while the runners-up will be awarded Rs 3 lakh. For the Federation Cup, the prize money for winners has been increased from Rs 10 to Rs 15 lakh, while the second best team will get Rs 10 lakh.

All members of the Senior Indian Football team and Support staff which won the inaugural SAFF Women’s Football championship in Dhaka will be given a cash incentive of Rs 50,000/-.

A new referee's committee has also been constituted under the chairman-

ship of Amit Dev. The other members include K Sankar, J Ravi Shankar, Col (Retd) Gautam Kar ,Anthony D Costa, Gulab Chauhan, Pradeep Nag and Inayutalla Khan.

India edge past Myanmar pre-olympic qualifier AGENCIES PUNE, FEB 23

A collective effort saw India U23 edging past Myanmar 2-1 in the first-leg of Pre-Olympic qualifier football at Balewadi S p o r t s C o m p l e x , h e re o n Wednesday.

Jeje Lalpekhlua drew first

blood, while Malswam Fela netted the second one before Myanmar pulled one back through Mai Aih Naing.

Desmond Bulpin named two senior players in his line-up in the form of Nirmal Chettri and N.Mohanraj while Myanmar started with a 4-3-3 formation.

India started the match on an aggressive note and came close to breaking the deadlock on

many occasions before an intelligent free-kick taken by Lalrindika Ralte paved the way for the winner with Jeje finding the net with ease in the 24th minute.

Myanmar made full use of a misunderstanding between Indian defenders and goalkeeper, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu as striker Mai Aih Yang levelled terms in the 33rd minute.

Fela netted the winner with a clean strike from the top of the 18-yard box in the 40th minute as India went for the breather with the scoreline reading 2-1.

The scoreline remained the same after the end of the second half proceedings as India deservedly won the tie with the second-leg scheduled to be held in Yangoon, Myanmar on March 9.

Cavelossim, Margao win HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, FEB 23

A fine brace by striker Levino Fernandes helped Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim defeat Raia Sporting Club 2-1 in GFA’s First Division League at Cuncolim ground, on Wednesday. Cavelossim led 1-0 at half time.

Cavelossim rocked the rival citadel in the 10th minute when striker Levino picked up the ball from his colleague Vitorino Fernandes and the former beat Raia goalkeeper Risven Fernandes with an adroit placement.

Cavelossim doubled their lead in the 60th minute when striker Levino received the ball from Djohn Fernandes and the former unleashed a left footer which zoomed into the net.

Raia regrouped quickly and reduce the margin through spot kick in the 63rd minute when midfielder Santan’s shot was handled by Cavelossim defender Garry D’Mello inside the penalty area and referee Egidio D’Costa

awarded the spot kick after a long delay. The referee’s decision in awarding the spot kick angered a section of the crowd, who in turn pelted missiles onto the ground. The fans also tried to enter the ground but timely intervention of Cavelossim team manager Narciso Fernandes prevented the incident from progressing.

Nelson Fernandes made no mistake with the resultant spot kick in the 64th minute.

With this win, Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim collected 21 points from nine matches and stay at the top while Raia Sporting Club have eight points from the same number of encounters.

“I am elated by my side’s performance. I have always advocated an all-out approach and today the boys implemented our plans perfectly,” said Severino Fernandes, coach, Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim.

At Assolna ground, Margao Sports Club downed St Rock’s

Tonca rout Vaddy HERALD SPORTS REPORTER MAPUSA, FEB 23

Salman Fernandes and Villroy D’Cruz scored three goals each as Young Boys of Tonca overcame 10-man Vaddy Sports Club, Merces 7-1 in GFA’s Second Division League at Dr Remigio Pinto ground, Taleigao on Wednesday. Tonca led 3-1 at the break.

Vaddy were reduced to ten men in the 43rd minute when Luciano Fernandes received his second yellow of the match.

Tonca finished their campaign on a high with 14 points from eight matches. Vaddy collected ten points from seven matches and are waiting to hear the verdict of the result of an abandoned match played earlier.

Tonca opened the scoring in the 14th minute, when Salman tapped home a cross from the right. Eleven minutes later from a similar position, Salman made it 2-0.

At the other end, Vaddy’s Di-

nesh Hadkonkar did well to guide the ball into the net after the rival custodian came rushing off his goalline to try and intercept in the 27th.

On the half hour mark, Villroy slotted the ball home to restore Tonca’s two goal cushion.

Within five minutes of change of ends, Salman completed his hat-trick tapping in Tonca’s fourth, from a cross.

Villroy’s second goal was spectacular, as he combined well with his colleague to make a foray into the rival’s territor y and then sent a sweetly timed shot into the back of the net.

Four minutes later, Cedric Fernandes got his name on the score sheet with a low drive, to the delight of his teammates.

Villroy was impatiently trying to score his third and the moment arose in injury time when he plucked the ball from obscurity and fired into the top corner.

Sports Club Fatrade, Varca 4-2.

Margao led 2-0 at half time.

Parryson Rebello put Margao into the lead off a pass from Romeo Fernandes. The goal spurred to intensify their forays into the rival territory and they increased their tally through Romeo Fernandes off Perryson Rebello.

Sanito Fernandes reduced the margin soon after resumption and later Columban Noronha restored parity for the Fatrade side. Stunned by the equaliser, Margao went into an aggressive mode and called the shots against the rival citadel.

Jaison Pereira put Margao into the lead while Perrryson Rebello rounded off the tally late in the second half.

With this win, Margao Sports Club collected 16 points from nine matches while St Rock’s Sports Club suffered their seventh defeat and have four points from the same number of encounters.

Goa Velha in semis HERALD SPORTS REPORTER MAPUSA, FEB 23

Goa Velha sneaked past Rossman Cruz Nagoa Sports Club 31 via the tie-breaker in the quarter-finals of Aldona Cup soccer organised by Quitula Sports Club at Quitula ground on Wednesday. The match ended 3-3 at normal time after Joy Gonsalves netted a second half hattrick for Goa Velha.

Vigil Rego opened the scoring for Rossman in the 10th minute from the penalty spot. Within eight minutes, Rossman found themselves two up when Ajay shodankar fired in.

After the lemon break, Joy Gonsalves finished well after receiving a pass from Vishant Pednekar. Joy scored in the 45th and 68th to force the game to be decided on penalties.

From the spot, Vishal Pednekar, Bazel D’Silva and Joy Gonsalves were successful for Goa velha. Vigil Rego converted for Rossman.

Maina, Xeldem up HERALD CORRESPONDENT QUEPEM, FEB 23

Maina Six, Xeldem Sports Club, Our Lady of Piety, Navelim and Vasco made it to the semi-finals of Fr Avrilio Pires memorial XIIth South Goa floodlit volleyball tournament organised by United Boys of Ambaulim, Quepem. In the first semis, Maina Six will take on OL Piety, Navelim on February 24 at 8.30 p.m. while in the second, Xeldem SC will meet Vasco. The finals are slated for February 27 at 7 p.m.

Rosary High School, Dona Paula, winners of State U-14 Girls football.

Second row - Fabiola, Jovena, Freya, Keenda, Analu. Sitting PE teacher Amol Nadkarni, Principal Sr. Emy Rodrigues, PE teacher Carol Gomes, captain Anushka. Squatting – Sapna, Leanne, Deanne, Urvi, Lizenka.

GOA DIARY D-Licence course at Vasco

PANJIM (HC) – The GFA will conduct a ‘D’ Licence course at Tilak Maidan, Vasco on February 28. Those interested may report to Savio Medeira or Lawrence Gomes at 3.30 p.m.

3-a-side soccer at Orlim

PANJIM (HSD) – Valanka Boys of Orlim will organise their 1st All-Goa 3-a-side soccer tie-breaker near St Michael Church, Orlim on March 4 at 6 p.m. The winners and runners-up will take home Rs 50,000 and Rs 40,000 respectively.

4-a-side soccer at Odxel

PANJIM (HSD) – A floodlit 4-a-side soccer tournament will be held at Don Bosco, Odxel ground on February 26 and 27 at 6.30 p.m. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners, runners-up and semi-finalists. Details may be obtained on 2451449.

Tennis ball cricket at Divar

PANJIM (HSD) – Lifeline Sports Club, Divar will organise their All-Goa tennis ball floodlight cricket tournament on March 10, 11 and 12 at St Mathias village panchayat ground, Divar. The winners and runners-up will take home Rs 25,000 and Rs 15,000 respectively. The semi-finalists will get Rs 3,500 each. Only 16 teams will be allowed. Details may be obtained from Kamlesh Sawant on 9923379740, Shekhar Morajkar on 9763108499 or Nitin Mayekar on 9764647838.

Cricket tourney in Margao

MARGAO (HC) -- Margao Royals Sports Club will organise their 1st All-Goa cricket tournament on March 5 and 6 near SAG sports complex, Fatorda, Margao. The winners and runners-up will take home Rs 22,222 and Rs 11,111 respectively. The semi-finalists will get Rs 4,444. Details may be obtained on 9225906108 or 9822734724.

Salcete GFA members working actively: Elvis HERALD SPORTS REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 23

GFA’s senior vice-president, Elvis Gomes who is also the chairman of I-League Committee stated, “There is no reason for any member of the committee to complain against any one, since the conduct of the ‘I-League’ so far has been with the active participation and assistance of all the members of the Executive Committee from Salcete Zone.”

‘Whatever minor misgivings have been there are resolved.

It may be that some members play a role which is more visible, but, at the same time there are duties to be carried out which do not become visible in the public eye and which are equally important in organising the League,” remarked Elvis Stating that the executive members are all united, Elvis

pointed out that the association is bigger than any individual, and that he will ensure that unnecessary divisions in the ranks do not crop up. “I have already spoken to Schubert Furtado, who has clarified that he has been misquoted and I leave at that,” said Elvis.

Elvis said that I-Leagues have been conducted in the past and will continue to be conducted in future, whether it is by this committee that is in-charge or for that matter any other committee. He complimented all those involved in the organising of the League saying that this tournament has been organised in Goa in a better manner, and even the crowd participation has been better than in the past.

A few factors such as installation of floodlights would also make a huge difference,” summed up

Elvis Schubert Furtado, in the meantime stated that he had not met any reporter nor he had spoken to anyone of them regarding the news item, “GFA's Schubert upset with some members’ working.”

The story was based on a meeting that Schubert had with a correspondent, who maintains that even Schubert’s photograph which appeared alongwith the story was clicked on the mobile yesterday at the meeting place.

Meanwhile, Laxmi Prasad Sports Club has addressed a letter to the Chairman GFA Arbitration Committee concerning the exclusion of the team from the Bardez Second Division Zone.

Jayprakash Poulekar, president of the club, stated that Laxmi Prasad was a 34-year-old club having played in the league for the past 30 years. Poulekar admits that there was delay in submitting the form. “The reason for delay in submitting the entry was due to my tour outside Goa and the one who was entrusted with the job failed to pay the entry fee. We are shocked at the

decision to exclude our team as never before such a decision was taken and we would like to point out that a precedent of accepting late fees alongwith the fine has been going on with the GFA for many years.”

“We have paid the entry fee and the fine and we don’t see why our team should be left out from the 2nd Division. We have already paid some of the players and we never dreamt that such a decision was awaiting as the old GFA Committee slept with our letter for almost five months putting all the clubs into inconvenience,” added Poulekar.

“The crux of the matter is the backdoor entry given to Saligao United by the then secretary of GFA and never before a team was taken in to fill the vacant spot as was done now,” claimed Poulekar.

www.oheraldo.in

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GOA, THURSDAY, 24 FEBRUARY, 2011

We have a lot more variety in attack than ’07: Smith attack that we have ever coming into the sub-continent. We have got a lot of options, we have got three frontline spinners and some batters who bowl spin," Smith said on the eve South Africa's opening match.

In Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel, the Proteas have a potent new ball pair, and in spin department, they have Johan Botha, Imran Tahir and Robin Peterson -- all bowlers of dif-

PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 23

With two world class pacers and three spinners in their ranks, South Africa are spoilt for choice as far as bowling is concerned and skipper Graeme Smith seemed all ready to unleash the fury ahead of their opening World Cup fixture against West Indies here tomorrow.

"I think it's probably our best spin

Real Madrid held; Chelsea win AFP LYON, FEB 22

Karim Benzema scored against his former club Lyon to earn Real Madrid a 1-1 draw here on Tuesday that puts them in a strong position to reach the Champions League quarter-finals.

Benzema put the visitors 1-0 up moments after coming on as a second-half substitute at a damp and chilly Stade Gerland, only for Bafetimbi Gomis to equalise seven m i n u t e s f ro m time.

Gomis's late volley extended Lyon's remarkable unbeaten record against Real to seven matches, but Benzema's away goal makes Jose Mourinho's side slight favourites to progress ahead of the second leg in Madrid on March 16.

Lyon eliminated Real at the same stage of last season's competition and the nine-time European champions are bidding to end an unwelcome run that has seen them fall in the round of 16 for the last six seasons in a row.

Lyon, meanwhile, are seeking

to build on their first ever semifinal appearance last year and coach Claude Puel admitted he was disappointed that Real had managed to breach his side's defence.

In another match, Nicolas Anelka eased the pressure on Carlo Ancelotti as his double-strike inspired Chelsea's 2-0 win over FC Copenhagen at the Parken Stadium.

Anelka's 15th and 16th goals of the season put Chelsea on course for the quarter-finals and they should have no trouble finishing off the lacklustre Danish champions in the return at Stamford Bridge next month.

It was a crucial victory for Ancelotti as the Chelsea manager fights to save his job following a woeful run of results which left the Blues in turmoil.

Chelsea's first win in four matches was a positive sign for Ancelotti but the Italian will be well aware that much sterner tests lie in wait as the west Londoners seek to reach the Champions League final at Wembley in May.

ferent varieties.

"I think we have a lot more variety than we did in 2007, when I felt we had a lot of similar type of bowlers in the Caribbean. But we now have pace, bounce, left-armers. We have also got a few spin options. I think it will be more difficult to prepare against us, the variety is there," he added.

Talking about the quickies in his squad, Smith said there is always a

Federer eases past Somdev in Dubai AGENCIES DUBAI, FEB 23

Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic began his bid for a third successive Dubai title with a comfortable 6-3, 6-3 win over France's Michael Llodra on Tuesday.

Top seed and four-times c h a m p i o n Ro g e r Fe d e re r posted an identical score against Indian wildcard Somdev Devvarman as he too shook off the rust in his first match since losing to Djokovic in the semi-finals of the Australian Open.

Nikolay Davydenko took just 57 minutes to over whelm Guillermo Garcia-Lopez of Spain 6-2, 6-0.

Back on court for the first time since he thrashed Andy Murray in Melbourne three weeks ago to bag a second slam title, second seed Djokovic was barely troubled by an opponent who beat him in their previous meeting at the Paris Masters in November.

Djokovic has chosen to play doubles at several events in the next few weeks, partnering fellow Serb Viktor Troicki at Indian Wells and Murray in Miami as well as with his brother Marko in Dubai, losing 6-4, 6-1 to Mahesh Bhupathi and Leander Paes.

place for genuine in any World Cup. But TODAY’S pace, irrespective of you have got to get it MATCH conditions. right even at that South Africa v.

"There is always a pace," he said.

West Indies, place for genuine "We just hopefully 2.30 p.m. pace. I don't think judge the conditions anybody likes to face well and pick the people who bowls at 155 kmph. If right teams to play against our opsomeone tells you they enjoy it, they position." are lying to you! I think having genuine Smith refused to reveal anything pace in your team is always an asset about Imran Tahir, the only uncapped

Spurs slump to defeat AFP LONDON, FEB 22

Blackpool dealt a blow to Tottenham's hopes of securing Champions League qualification on Tuesday, scoring their first win in seven matches with a 31 victory at Bloomfield Road.

First half goals from Charlie Adam and DJ Campbell and a late Brett Ormerod strike secured three precious points for

Old Stories of yore

A

The Story of Achilles’ Heel

chilles, one of the greatest of the ancient Greek warriors, was the son of Peleus of Thessaly and a sea nymph named Thetis.

According to Greek mythology, the marriage of Peleus and Thetis had been carefully arranged by two of the most powerful gods in the Greek pantheon: Zeus and Poseidon. Because of her beauty, Thetis had been highly sought after by both of these gods; however, they were warned by the fire god, Prometheus, that whoever fathered a child with Thetis would create offspring that would prove mightier than his predecessor. Not wanting to run the risk of being overpowered, Zeus and Poseidon arranged for Thetis to marry the mortal Peleus. Peleus was the King of Thessaly (a region of Greece) and the leader of the Myrmidons who were very brave and skilled warriors.

tor y

n His i y a d o T

As legend has it, Thetis was committed to making her infant son immortal.

One version of the story explains that she dipped him in ambrosia, the food of the gods, and placed him in a fire.

This was intended to burn away his mortal elements and make him into a god. A later version of the story explains that Thetis dipped him in the River Styx, the river which ran through the underworld (Hades). As Thetis dipped Achilles in the river, she held him by the heel.

Thus, Achilles’ heel failed to touch the magical water and he was left vulnerable in this place; it was this tiny portion of his body that would prove to be his downfall when he was shot with an arrow during the Trojan War.

1303: The Battle of Roslin was a battle of

the First War of Scottish Independence, taking place on 24 February at Roslin, Scotland.

8,000 Scots faced an English army 30,000 strong and the dying embers of Scottish patriotism burst into vibrant flame when John Comyn, a guardian of Scotland, routed the English at the Battle of Roslin.

2010: Sachin Tendulkar scored the first double century in One Day International (ODI) cricket. In the series, Tendulkar was run out in the first ODI for four runs, but made a strong comeback in the second match, scoring a brisk hundred off just 90 balls. This also took his tally of hundreds to 46 in ODIs and 93 in tests and ODIs combined. He finished the match on 200*, thus becoming the first batsman in the history of ODI cricket to score a double century.

Ian Holloway's side, who had slipped close to the relegation zone after losing five of their six previous matches.

The win saw Blackpool advance to 12th spot, five points clear of the relegation places.

Spurs, who could have moved into third place with a victory, remain in fourth, two points ahead of champions Chelsea who have a game in hand.

player in the 15-man squad.

West Indies skipper Darren Sammy said his team would look to revive the pride and passion of the twotime former champions during their World Cup campaign which kicks off against South Africa tomorrow.

Sammy said his team received some useful tips from the former players of West Indies and they would look to implement them in their

game and deliver with the "passion and fight of the 1980s".

"We received tips from a few former players. Clive Lloyd got in touch with me. Our manager (Richie Richardson) was also a part of the 1996 World Cup. So we would look to implement their advice in our game and deliver with the passion and fight of the 1980s to give something to our fans," Sammy told reporters.

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GOA, THURSDAY, 24 FEBRUARY, 2011

Pakistan impress PTI HAMBANTOTA, FEB 23

Pakistan opened their World Cup campaign with a thumping --run win over an unimpressive Kenya by 205 runs in a group A match at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium here today.

For Kenya it is their second consecutive defeat in the megaevent after being demolished

by New Zealand by 10 wickets in their tournament-opener on Sunday.

Pakistan will next play Sri Lanka in Colombo on Saturday.

Against Kenya, Pakistan produced an all-round display as after piling up a mammoth 317 for seven on the board, they dismissed the minnows for a paltry 112 in 33.1 overs.

Even though he failed with the bat, skipper Shahid Afridi (5/) led from the front while defending the target and returned with a five-wicket haul to notch up the comprehensive victory for the former champions.

For Kenya only four batsmen reached double figures with Collins Obuya top-scoring with a gutsy 47 off 58 balls.

Apart from Afridi, pacer Umar Gul picked up two Kenyan wickets giving away just 12 runs.

Earlier, Pakistan's middleorder came up with a splendid batting display to steer the team to a massive 317 for seven after opting to bat.'

Shrugging off a poor start, Kamran Akmal (55), Younis Khan (50), Misbah-ul-Haq (65) and Umar Akmal (71) chipped in with valuable half-centuries each to post a challenging total.

While it was the experienced duo of Younis and Kamran, who helped the team recover from an early stutter, Misbah and Umar capitalised on it to pile up huge runs.

From 12 for two in 6.5 overs, Younis-Kamran lifted Pakistan to 110 for three, sharing a crucial 98-run third-wicket stand before quickfire knocks from Misbah and Umar turned the tide completely in Pakistan's favour.

Misbah scored 65 off 69 balls with the help of one four and two sixes, while Umar hit 71 off 52 balls, including eight fours and a six as they put up 118 runs for fifth wicket.

Batting first after winning the toss, Pakistan openers, Mohammad Hafeez (9) and Ahmed Shehzad (1) struggled against Kenya's new ball pair of Thomas Odoyo and Elijah Otieno.

Pakistan: Mohammad Hafeez c Waters b Otieno 9, Ahmed Shahzad c Kamande b Odoyo 1, Kamran Akmal st Ouma b Ngoche 55,Younis Khan lbw b Tikolo 50, Misbah-ul-Haq c Otieno b Kamande 65, Umar Akmal c Obuya b Odoyo 71, Shahid Afridi lbw b Odoyo 7, Abdul Razzaq not out 8, Abdur Rehman not out 5.Extras:46.Total:317 for 7.Overs: 50. Fall:1-11, 2-12, 3-110, 4-155, 5-273, 6-289, 7-289.Bowling:Odoyo 7-2-41-3, Otieno 9-1-49-1, Odhiambo 7-0-65-0, Ngoche 10-0-46-1, Kamande 7-0-64-1, Tikolo 9-0-44-1, Obuya 1-0-5-0.

Kenya: M. Ouma c Kamran b Gul 16, S.Waters run out 17, C. Obuya c Shahzad b Afridi 47, S.Tikolo b Afridi 13, T. Mishra lbw b Afridi 6, R. Patel c Umar b Hafeez 0, J. Kamande lbw b Afridi 2, T.Odoyo lbw b Afridi 0, N.Odhiambo run out 0 S.Ngoche b Gul 0, E.Otieno not out 0. Extras: 11. Total:112 all out. Overs: 33.1. Fall: 1-37, 2-43, 3-73, 4-79, 5-85, 687, 7-101, 8-112, 9-112, 10-112.Bowling:Akhtar 5-0-10-0, Razzaq 5-1-23-0, Gul 4.1-012-2, Rehman 7-1-18-0, Afridi 8-3-16-5, Hafeez 4-1-26-1. Man-of-the-Match: U Akmal.

Be brave: Ryan lDutch recipe for success PTI NAGPUR, FEB 23

Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi celebrates after he dismissed Kenya batsman Collins Obuya at Suriyawewa Mahinda Rajapakse international cricket stadium in the southern district of Hambantota on Wednesday.

Need to come hard against Lanka: Afridi PTI HAMBANTOTA, FEB 23

Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi is undoubtedly a happy man after crushing Kenya in their opening match of the World Cup but said his side will have to come out all guns blazing against Sri Lanka in their next group A game on Saturday.

Pakistan today opened their World Cup campaign in style, thrashing a lowly Kenya by 205 runs.

"It is a good start but we need to be more positive while batting . We need to give a positive start to the innings. The conditions were harder today but atleast we should have taken some chance after seeing off the first 5 overs," Afridi said after the match.

He cautioned his teammates against complacency ahead of their next game against mighty Sri Lanka in Colombo two days

later.

"The next game is very important for us. We will have to come out harder on Sri Lanka," Afridi said.

The skipper also praised veteran pacer Shoaib Akhtar for his misery opening spell during which he bowled five overs for just 10 runs but failed to pick up a single wicket.

"It is good to see Shoaib (Akhtar) bowl really well with

the new ball," Afridi said.

Man- of-the-Match Umar Akmal, who scored a 52-ball 71 in the middle-order and helped Pakistan pile 317 for seven, hoped to continue his good showing in the coming matches of the tournament.

"I played this sort of an innings after a long time. I was working hard at the nets and it paid off. The captain, coach and the entire also supported me.�

Ponting reprimanded over TV smash AFP NEW DELHI, FEB 23

Australia skipper Ricky Ponting was on Wednesday reprimanded by the International Cricket Council after he smashed a dressing room television set during a World Cup tie.

The ICC said that Ponting had accepted the charge under the code of conduct which relates to "abuse of cricket equipment or

clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an international match".

Match referee Roshan Mahanama said: "Ricky knows that his action was in breach of the code, involving a brief moment of frustration.

"It was clear that the damage he caused was purely accidental and without malice, he apologised shortly after the incident at the

ground and immediately agreed to pay for the damage."

Ponting smashed the TV in a fit of fury after being run out during the 91-run win over Zimbabwe.

The ICC had been contacted by the Indian cricket board following a complaint lodged by the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) despite Ponting having apologised.

The Netherlands lost the match but p roved they were no pushovers by giving England a scare and star of the show all-rounder Ryan ten Doeschate said his team can look forward to a great World Cup if it continues to play "brave cricket".

Doeschate played a brilliant knock of 119 and also picked up a couple of wickets in his superb all-round performance.

Doeschate's batting stunned the English at least in the first half of the match in which the Dutch put up an impressive 292 on the board.

Doeschate said if the Oranje brigade can carry the momentum in the coming matches, the team might just score the big upset which happens almost every World Cup. "If we can carry on in that manner, playing brave cricket and having a go at these big teams it will be a great World Cup for us," Doeschate said after the match.

The 30-year-old, the lone associate country cricketer to fetch an IPL contract, said it was just "one of those days" as far as his own performance was concerned.

"For the past six weeks I've struggled with the bat but I've worked really hard in the last two weeks and it was just one of those days," said Doeschate.

"It is a really good deck and I picked up the ball pretty early and it was one of those days

when everything came naturally."

Doeschate said the Dutch exceeded their own expectations by posting the rather challenging target for the English.

"I always thought it was a re a l l y g o o d w i c ke t a n d I thought 230/240 definitely wouldn't be competitive so we knew we needed to push it on but I think as a unit we paced the innings quite well. We were aiming around the 270 mark," he said.