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Goa’s Heartbeat: Kareena-Shahid bury their hatchet over a chat Pg 4

Tragic end to 15 job aspirants Fifteen youths were killed and several others injured when they fell from the roof of two speeding trains crammed with job aspirants returning from an ITBP recruitment camp in Bareilly in UP. The incidents triggered violent protests as angry youths torched a train. Fourteen youths, travelling atop the Himgiri Express, were killed when they were hit by an overbridge near Shahjahanpur while another ITBP job-seeker died when he fell from the Traveni Express in Hardoi district, District Magistrate of Shahjahanpur Ajay Chauhan said. — (PTI)

Business: Govt may hike tax Pg 13 exemption limit

Rs 200 cr royalty lost, claim Oppn, Daya

‘Illegal mining’ took centre-stage on the second day of Winter Session of Goa Legislative Assembly on Tuesday with Opposition members along with Aldona MLA attacking the Government for failing to curb illegal mining activities in the State as also to prevent pilferage of royalty.

The Opposition took on the Government during ‘Question Hour’ along with Aldona MLA Dayanand Narvekar questioning as to what had been done to stop the pilferage of royalty.

They pointed out over Rs 200 crore royalty had been lost during last three years while Chief Minister Digambar Kamat who also holds mines portfolio, said the Department of Mines had issued show cause notices to companies who were not regular in filing their returns.

The Department has been engaged in thorough assessment of the mining companies for the last ten years to ensure that no one escapes from payment of royalty.

However, Opposition Leader Manohar Parrikar pointed out that the Department does not have data to counter-check the submissions made by the mining companies. The chief minister replied that more staff would be recruited to be posted at mining sites and total comput-

erisation will be done to check irregularities.

The Opposition also came down heavily on the Government over environmental clearance (EC) to mining companies saying many firms were extracting ore more than legally permitted.

Alarm bells over corruption

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

Corruption is the buzz word during this Assembly session and members from both Ruling and Opposition are not leaving any opportunity to pin down the Government on the subject, which has been linked to the

House brings in two Bills HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

The Goa Legislative Assembly on Tuesday introduced the Goa Town and Country Planning (Amendment) Bill, 2011 and the Goa Value Added Tax (Fifth Amendment) Bill, 2011.

The Bill envisages amendment to sub-section (2) of section 45 of the Goa, Daman and Diu Town and Country Planning Act, 1974 (Act 21 of 1975) S a n g u e m M L A Va s u d e v Gaonkar pointed out to illegal mining being carried out in Rivona. Even mining activities are on within the catchment areas of Selaulim dam, he told the House.

Intervening at this point, Opposition Leader sought to know whether the Department had acted to ensure that lessees did not extract ore more than legally permitted.

The Chief Minister, however, said it the duty of the Bangalore (Continued on page 10)

for raising the maximum limit of fee to be accompanied while filing an appeal before the TCP Board. This will lead to more revenue collection as the Bill envisages a fee of Rs 10,000 from the present Rs 500. It makes a case for increase of the fee as the present one was inadequate.

Among the many things the Goa Value Added Tax (Fifth (Continued on page 10)

present Congress dispensation.

On Tuesday, corruption which had taken deep roots in illegal mining, environmental degradation, law and order problem, drug nexus, PPP model in the health sector, PWD functioning, etc., came up during discussion on motion of thanks of

Locals plan march to save islands HERALD REPORTER VASCO, FEB 1

Residents of Mormugao taluka who are up-in-arms against the Navy’s controversial plan to acquire two islands off Baina, will march to the Secretariat on Wednesday to highlight their opposition to the acquisition.

According to sources, the protest rally will be an embar-

Inauguration at 11 a.m.

rassment to the State Government, as its own legislator and Cortalim MLA Mauvin Godinho is leading from the front to stop the acquisition of St George (Grande Large) Islands and Pequeno Island off the coast of Baina.

Godinho has received an overwhelming response from most panchayats in Mormugao – Bog-

malo, Chicalim, Sancoale, Velsao, Cortalim and Cansaulim.

The Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) had also adopted a resolution to oppose the acquisition of the islands.

Announcements were also made in most churches in Vasco and Cortalim constituencies, appealing people to oppose the (Continued on page 10)

Police game for CBI probe into drug case, govt not HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

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Goa police today confirmed that the case of police-drug mafia nexus involving suspended police sub-inspector Sunil Gudlar is still not handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Police spokesperson Superintendent of Police (Special Branch) Atmaram Deshpande told reporters that the Department had proposed that the Government hand over the case to CBI, which is currently being probed by the Special Investigating Team (SIT).

“The Department some time back sent a proposal to the Government asking to hand over the case to the CBI. We are awaiting response”, he said.

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat, a week ago, had said that the Government was weighing options of handing over the cops-drug peddler nexus case to the CBI. “The State home ministry’s proposal to hand over the entire drug-nexus investigations to the CBI is under active consideration”, Kamat was quoted as saying.

In another police-drug nexus probe involving drug peddler Yaniv Benaim alias Atala, State Government has asked the CBI to accept the case, written reply

The Department some time back sent a proposal to the Government asking to hand over the cops-drug peddler nexus case to the CBI. We are awaiting response.

— SP Atmaram Deshpande of which is awaited.

Deshpande said that he is yet to get a written confirmation from the authorities on whether this case has been accepted by the CBI or not.

Digambar Kamat-led Government has been facing flak after the Crime Branch made no substantial breakthrough in the investigations into the policemen-politician-drug peddler nexus cases, which have kept coming to light time and again.

While Atala was arrested in March 2010 after his former girlfriend Lucky Farmhouse Amori caught him in a sting confessing about his links, another drug dealer David Driham alias Dudu was arrested with cocktail of drugs at Anjuna in February 2010.

The sting operation conducted by Dudu’s sister, Ayala Driham and his girlfriend Zarina had caught police sub-inspector Sunil Gudlar on spy-camera selling drugs.

the Governor.

At the forefront was Aldona MLA Dayanand Narvekar who sought clarity in Government functioning and called for declaring war on the narcotics trade in the State and questioned the Government whether it could do the same.

Narvekar in a very satirical manner ridiculed the public private participation initiative calling it a new political economy as quoted from a book of a famous author — excerpts of (Continued on page 10)

Jail, hefty penalty for defacing monuments HERALD CORRESPONDENT NEW DELHI, FEB 1

Be ready for a jail term of two years and hefty fine of Rs 1 lakh if you are caught defacing any of the centrally protected monuments or sites.

These heritage monuments and sites come under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) whose permission is necessary for filming or holding any cultural event or function

within their limits.

In a press note ASI said the penalty under Section (30) of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 has been enhanced that are adequate to contain defacements of the monuments declared as of national importance. An amendment in the Act passed by Parliament last year increases (Continued on page 10)

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Cipriano was not bailed out CM assures to rehabilitate Khariwaddo locals before death: activist HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

A social activist today alleged that Cipriano Fernandes was not bailed out when he died in Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).

Information procured by Jowett D’Souza under the Right to Information (RTI) Act shows that no bail application was filed on behalf of Cipriano and hence he was not granted bail.

“No bail was granted. Order was passed directing the police inspector/investigating officer, Panjim police station to release Cipriano Fernandes on execution of bond to maintain good behaviour during the pendancy of inquiry,” the reply letter by the Deputy Collector to Jowett reads.

Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Shabaji Shetye’s reply dated January 31 also states that Cipriano was not produced before him (SDM) as the latter was admitted in the GMC. Shetye also added that granting bail to a person under preventive arrest does not arise as he cannot be detained beyond

24 hours.

Cipriano, 38-year-old Moira resident was on his two-month long vacation at his home town in Goa when he was picked up by the Panjim police on January 7 evening.

He was arrested under ‘preventive measure’ after his woman friend complained against him of threatening her with a knife at her Caranzalem house.

The Non-Resident Goan who was employed as second cook in European Cruise died on January 9 morning at GMCH with family members holding Panjim police responsible for his killing.

Meanwhile, Jowett has rubbished suspended police inspect o r S a n d e s h C h o d a n ka r ’ s allegations of hatching criminal conspiracy against his family.

On Sunday, Chodankar filed a complaint with the Panjim town police that two unknown person entered his house at Neugi Nagar on the pretext of repairing an electricity meter and started searching for him.

Churchill didn’t finance Jaagor, asserts Damu HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 1

Terming as false and baseless allegations made by PWD Minister Churchill Alemao that he took money from the minister for his film Jaagor, Fatorda MLA Damu Naik has challenged Alemao to come clear on various issues or order a CBI inquiry into the PWD mess over the last five years.

In a statement, Naik said that Churchill has neither financed his film nor did he approach or request the PWD minister for financial support for his film. “I am well off to produce a film. My friends had also entirely financed me to produce the film. People know my business of manufacturing and trades, which is my bread and butter. It is legal and audited time to time,” Naik said and told Alemao to stop misguiding Goans by making false allegations.

On the contrary, the MLA said it was Alemao who at the congratulatory motion of making of the film Jagor in the Assembly had asked for the screening of his film for his workers at the Ravindra bhavan. “As per the scheduled booking of the theatre of 1200

seating capacity, two shows of t h e f i l m w e re s c re e n e d .

Churchill purchased all the 2400 tickets for distribution to his supporter. Now Churchill should clarify from where he got this money. Whether it is his hard earned money or through the PWD,” he asked.

He said the people of Goa very well know who has made crores of rupees and who is the root cause of corruption and challenged Alemao to come clear on various issues or order a CBI inquiry to probe into the PWD mess over the last five years.

He suspected Kenneth Silveira of Vasco and Jowett D’Souza of Colva for hatching a criminal conspiracy either to harm him and his family or to plant evidence against him relating Cipriano’s death.

Police are investigating the case under sections 452 (criminal trespass) and 120-B (conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code.

Counter alleging Chodankar’s statement, Kenneth – a crucial witness who claimed to have seen Cipriano being beaten up in the police station, and Cipriano’s paternal cousin Cosme said that they are constantly under police surveillance.

The twin suspect Chodankar of instructing his men at Panjim police station to keep a watch on them. Kenneth in his complaint to the Margao police station also said that he has been receiving threatening calls allegedly by the suspended inspector.

NGO Utt Goenkara has demanded transfer of the entire police staff at Panjim town police station and grant police protection to Jowett and Kenneth.

Orlim sarpanch rubbishes allegations

BY HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 1

The Sarpanch of Orlim village Panchayat, Shirley Braz has termed as false and baseless allegations made by some gram sabha on holding the Sunday gram sabha without quorum.

In a statement, the Sarpanch said that the handful of protestors do not know the meaning of Quorum and added that that same protestors had earlier complained to the BDO, Director of Panchayats and others that the Sarpanch had two monthly meetings without quorum.

“These people have been making false allegations against the sarpanch and its members. On the Sunday gram sabha meeting, the meeting was adjourned half an hour and the meeting continued at 10.15 am”, Shirley said, adding “These so call protestors could not be allowed to register at the time of exit as there is no such law”.

The statement said the concerned authorities such as the BDO, Director of Panchayats and deputy directors should provide some training for these so called protestors who had signed the register book at the gram sabha with comments. “This is against the law. They can only put their names and initials and not comments’, she added.

Chief Minister Digambar Kamar on Tuesday assured the House that the government would work out a solution along with Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) to rehabilitate residents of Khariwaddo, Vasco who are slapped with show cause notices by the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC).

He made the statement while replying to a “Calling Attention” motion tabled

by Curtorim MLA Reginaldo Lourenco along with Opposition Leader Manohar Parrikar, Mormugao MLA Milind Naik and

Siolim MLA Dayanand Mandrekar.

The chief minister said various options have been considered and that he also had a meeting with the new MPT chairman to work out a solution.

“The MPT has been sent a clear message by the Central government that it cannot have separate existence undermining the interest of Goa,” the chief minister told the House as some MLAs were sceptical about MPT's willingness to cooperate with the State government due to high-handed manner in which earlier chairman of the MPT had handled the issue.

HERALD REPORTER VASCO, FEB 1

Was the last ditch effort of Khariwado fishermen a too little and too late to save their structures along the Khariwado shore from demolition?

Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) in its writ petition in 2009 had stated that the 366 structures within 50 mtrs from the high tide line were in MPT’s boundary line.

However, this issue along with the issue of fishing jetty have been deliberated for over one decade among the fishing community.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was also signed in 1998, which stated that 194 surveyed houses would be rehabilitated along with the fishing jetty.

The matter reached the High Court two years ago and since then politicians only made false assurances that the structures would be protected, but never made an effort to pursue the matter in the court strongly despite the MoU of rehabilitation. Sources in Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) informed that after the petition was filed, show cause notices were issued to 363 structures.

“However, only 87 residents replied to the show cause notices, while 178 people had requested 15 days extension, off which only 99

people filed their reply,” informed sources.

Even after the extension period got over, 177 people didn’t file their reply and 186 people appeared before the council, which clearly suggests lethargic attitude of few people from Khariwado, said sources.

“Thirty people, who had approached for stay against demolitions, were granted stay,” added sources. “As most people were ignorant about the fact of matter in the court and financial constraint was a major concern, most people refrained from challenging before the court,” said Goa Fishing Boat Owner Association President Simon Pereira.

Pereira alleged that politicians are least concerned, as they have never made serious effort to make a point in the court that the MoU clearly says that rehabilitation of 194 surveyed structures should proceed with demolition.

Meanwhile, the fear among people is growing high with MMC seeking disconnection of electricity and water connections to these structures, while the demolition date has been set for February 7. It is learnt that former MMC chief officer N D Agarwal has been asked to take charge at MMC, as Agarwal is known for his strong stand during the infamous red light area Baina demolition.

Nessai murder: police oppose anticipatory bail HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 1

Vehemently opposing the anticipatory bail application filed by Rashikant Gauns in the headless murder case, the Maina Curtorim police has said that Gauns is required in police custody for custodial interrogation in order to identify his role in the commission of offence, locate his absconding associates, recover the missing head of the deceased and to recover the weapons used in the commission of the crime.

Additional Sessions Judge Vijaya Pol heard arguments of defence lawyer, Adv Alban Viegas.

The arguments will continue in the court on Wednesday.

In the reply filed by the police in response to the anticipatory bail application, the Maina Curtorim police said investigations has revealed that deceased Sultan Bellary was taken in a Swift Dezire car from Pedda-Benaulim on the night of January 9-10.

The police contended that the

HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 1

MMC chief Sushila Naik signs the Concession agreement while her deputy Gonzaco Rebello, Chief Officer Prasanna Acharya and Sanitary inspector Viraj Arabekar look on.

Photo by Santosh Mirajkar

has resolved to ask the government to sanction grant in aid of Rs 7.31 crore to make the payments. The Civic body has so far received around Rs 3.60 crore

from the government towards solid waste management and the government is expected to sanction the balance amount as per the promise made by Chief Min-

Swift car and a Maruti van descended at Pedda-Benaulim with seven occupants on that night and the vehicles headed towards Margao with the deceased.

Investigations further revealed that the deceased was taken away on the pretext that he is a thief and has committed theft at Damodar store, Margao, belonging to one Rajesh Naik.

Incidentally, the police submitted to the court that the owner of the Swift Dezire care Nitin Dicholka disclosed that he used to keep his car at the Temple premises at Davorlim that one key was with the Temple Manager, Padmanaban.

The police said that car was being used for the affairs of the Temple, of which Jayesh Naik is the President, who is the brother of accused Govind Naik and shop owner Rajesh Naik.

The police further submitted in the court that investigations have allegedly further revealed that Jayesh Naik and Ashish Kamat allegedly own a company

ister, Digambar Kamat.

As per the agreement, Fomento is required to furnish to the MMC an unconditional irrevocable bank guarantee of Rs two

crore within 30 days of the agreement. The bank guarantee is to be discharged no sooner the company completes work on the construction of the plant and machinery at the stie.

The company is also required to submit a performance security to the Civic body by way of an irrevocable bank guarantee for Rs 50 lakh and maintain such performance security for the Concession period or till the termination date.

Questions are raised whether the bank guarantee of Rs two crore is adequate when the Civic body has resolved to make one time payment of Rs 7.31 crore, more so when the company is expected to work at the site for the next 25 years.

This question has assumed more significance in the light of the bitter experience with Hyderabad-based Hyquip Projects, but the powers that be has dismissed the question saying that Fomento is a Goan company and will not run away from the state by abandoning the project midway.

Activists demand ban on illegal cow slaughter HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

Animal Welfare activists have demanded Goa Government to stop illegal cow slaughtering, which is practiced on a large scale.

Addressing a press conference today Akhil Vishwa Jai Sri Ram Gau Sanvardhan Kendra and Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Animal Rescue President (VHPAR) Hanumanth Parab said that Government should follow the Goa Slaughterhouse Act, which prohibits slaughtering.

“Government should hang the person found slaughtering

cows…Hindus worship the cow,” he said.

The animal welfare group has also demanded to shut down all illegal slaughtering houses.

It has given one-month ultimatum to come to a decision failing which the activists have threatened to come on the streets.

The group has also sought amending laws at the State and Central level so as the butchers do not misuse the loopholes in the existing laws.

The activists alleged the Government of turning a blind eye

towards illegal slaughter houses doing business in the State. Even as some raids have taken place, the authorities have failed to enforce stringent action.

Nine bulls, 64 pigs and 10 tons of meat, which were being taken to an abattoir, were seized by Collem police at Mollem checkpost on Monday.

The ‘unhygienic’ meat packages were brought to Goa from the neighbouring State of Karnataka. Twelve persons were arrested and six vehicles seized.

Parab alleged that the Government does not pay heed to the

tional fishermen and cannot be shunted out from Khariwaddo.

On the direction of the High Court, MMC has identified 363 structures which do not have licence from the municipal council required under Municipalities Act. The High Court in its order on December 13, 2010 had directed MMC to take further action pertaining to final notices served and in view of its earlier order that it should demolish illegal structures, except 30 structures of which demolition has been stayed by the Municipal Appellate Tribunal, and file the compliance report by February 15, 2011.

Fishermen were lethargic, reveals evidence

MMC, Fomento sign concession agreement After months of hard bargaining and negotiations, the Margao Municipal Council and Fomento on Tuesday finally inked the Concession agreement towards the setting up of the waste treatment plant at the Sonsodo site.

After putting his signature on the agreement, Margao Municipal Chief Officer Prasanna Acharya said that Fomento has been set a deadline of one year to set up the plant and commence operations, but hastened to add that the Civic body would ensure the project gets underway well ahead of the deadline.

Margao Municipal Chairperson Sushila Naik, her deputy Gonzaco Rebello and Councilor Arthur D’Silva also put their signatures on the agreement as witnesses.

As per the agreement, the Margao Civic body is required to making the one time payment of Rs 7.31 crore to Fomento within six months of the signing of the agreement. In this connection, the Margao Civic body

He said that he had a detailed discussion with the MPT chairman about the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in the past about rehabilitation of Khariwaddo residents.

The MPT claims that most residents of Khari waddo are illegal occupants and wants them to vacate the area as it has plans to expand the port facilities.

The MPT went to High Court when it discovered that neither MMC nor the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) was responding to its request.

On the other hand the residents of Khariwaddo claim that they are tradi-

grievances by the animal rescue groups and instead patronage the illegal doers.

He said that the arrested-men referred names of Chief Minister Digambar Kamat and Public Works Department minister Churchill Alemao to the Mollem police to release them.

Panjim Welfare Animals Society (PAWS) has backed AVPAR demands. PAWS secretary Angela Kazi released details of around 25 slaughter houses operating in Goa illegally.

The activists have proposed meeting the chief minister in re-

spect to brutalities against animals even though the latter has till date refused to meet the former.

“We want the Government to keep a constant vigil on the check-posts from where illegal and unhygienic meat comes to Goa…The department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services are sleeping over the issue,” Kazi stated.

She further said that they are not against meat available provided it comes from Goa Meat Complex which is a designated slaughter house in Goa.

styled as Agro Earth Movers Ventures.

Alleging that Jayesh is the prime suspect in this crime, the police submitted that there are number of mobile phones in this company which were being allegedly used by the different suspects.

“Investigations further revealed that application Gauns is one of the close associate of the prime suspect and they were in constant contact before and after the commission of offence, as evident from their contacts, call details and SDR. It is revealed through the tower location that on the date of offence, the location of the applicant was in and around the scene of offence. Investigations further revealed that the prime suspect Jayesh Naik and his associates including the present applicant are always in close association with each other”, the police further submitted to the court, while opposing the bail application.

Vasco priest, civic forum plead for fishermen HERALD REPORTER VASCO, FEB 1

St Andrew Church Parish Priest and the Vasco Civic Forum have requested the President, Prime Minister and UPA President to safeguard the fishermen's structures along the Khariwado shoreline that are likely to be demolished.

Parish Priest Fr Jose Antonio Jose Costa along with other parishioners had participated in the nationwide anti-corruption rally, which was organised by activists like Kiran Bedi and others at New Delhi on January 30.

Fr Costa took the opportunity to submit separate memorandums to President Pratibha Patil, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and UPA

President Sonia Gandhi and demanded that structures alongside Khariwado should be rehabilitated first and later demolished.

Speaking to Herald from Delhi, Fr Costa said they are not against Mormugao Port Trust’s (MPT) port expansion plan, but it should not come at the cost of fishermen and local people, as there has to be an amicable solution.

He further said that the Church is ready to mediate to resolve the issue and is even ready to provide church land at Saibin Bhat, Vasco, for rehabilitation of fishermen, provided MPT and State government takes keen interest to bear rehabilitation expenses.

Truth is bitter for BJP, ex-member HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 1

A day after his suspension from the BJP, Party cultural cell convenor, Sidhanath Buyao on Tuesday lamented that truth had become unpalatable for the party with a difference especially its Fatorda MLA Damu Naik.

Briefing newsmen, Buyao squarely blamed the Fatorda MLA behind the decision by Party leaders to suspend him from the organization. Pointing out that action was taken on him at the instance of the Fatorda MLA with whom he has been at loggerheads on the social networking site face book, Buyao said it appeared that an honest assessment of the Fatorda’s MLA’s in action in tackling several issues in Fatorda, more particularly the vexed garbage problem had earned him the party’s wrath.

“The Fatorda MLA had made a public appeal on the face book soliciting advise on issues that the MLA take concrete steps to remedy the worsening situation at Sonsodo as also investigate

how a one time payment of more than Rs seven crore was being given to a company without any experience in solid waste management”, he said.

“It appeared that the Fatorda MLA’s sins of omission and commission were falling out of the cupboard following his expose on Face book. Wary of this damage, the MLA exerted pressure on the party leadership thinking that by silencing voices of dissent, the Fatorda MLA’s misdeeds could be pushed under the carpet”, Buyao added.

Reiterating his resolve to expose the Fatorda MLA’s corruption and collusion in illegal deals in the constituency, Buyao said that he was no relieved that he could continue his crusade against corruption without bondage from the party.

Replying to a question, Buyao said the Fatorda MLA was not happy with a Catholic heading the party Curtorim block committee and had sabotage plans to field his candidate in the Margao Municipal polls.

Digambar opens Goa’s first air conditioned toilet in Margao HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 1

Goa’s first fully air conditioned toilet became a reality in the Margao Municipal garden on Tuesday, even as the stinking public toilets dotting the city are crying for urgent attention from the powers that be and Sulabh International.

Kamat threw open the Rs 20 lakh four seater cum three urinal Sulabh toilet in the presence of Urban Development Minister Joaquim Alemao and MMC Chairperson Sushila Naik and the founder of Sulabh Sanitation and social reform movement, Dr Bindeshwar Pathak. The toilet has cost MMC Rs 12 lakh, while Sulabh has claimed to have invested Rs eight lakh in the project. The toilet has a music system and two hand driers.

Anyone can use the toilet and urinals, but after paying a fee of Rs five and Rs two, respectively.

When newsmen asked the chief minister what message he is conveying to the people of the city by inaugurating the air conditioned toilet, Kamat said that he has only opened the toilet since the foundation stone was laid by the Municipal body.

When newsmen drew his attention to the sorry state of sanitation in the commercial capital, Kamat directed Sulabh Founder Dr Pathak to take immediate measures and ensure that sanitation is not compromised in the toilets. “For better monitoring of the situation, I would suggest that a committee be constituted to monitor the func-

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat inaugurating the AC toilet in Margao municipal garden in the presence of Urban Development Minister Joaquim Alemao and MMC Chairperson Sushila Naik.

Photo by Santosh Mirajkar

tioning and maintenance of the toilets in public interest”, he added.

“Sulabh have assured me that a dedicated night soil tanker is being stationed in Margao to take care of overflowing septic tanks. This should solve the problem of insanitary conditions around the public toilets,” Kamat said.

Incidentally, when newsmen questioned Sulabh founder Dr Pathak on the objective behind the air conditioned toilet, he said that Goa is an international city, where people visit the place from around the world. “We should maintain the international standard to cater to the requirements of the visitors.

With this in mind, Sulabh has gone in for the air conditioned toilet”, he added.

When his attention was drawn to the pathetic state of most of the public toilets maintained by Sulabh, Pathak said

he would physically inspection the toilets before action is initiated to rectify the faults. “I can assure you that hence forth no complaints will come on the maintenance of the public toilets. Defects, if any, will be rectified within the next fortnight”, he assured.

That Sulabh toilet in the congested Gandhi market is in a dilapidated state was made to Sulabh officials by ward Councilor Rosy Pereira before the AC toilet inauguration, only to be stopped from airing her grievances further by MMC Chairperson Sushila Naik, who assured to resolve the problem.

Meanwhile, MMC Chief Officer, Prasanna Acharya has said that the AC toilet’s soakpit is located well beyond the water well in the Municipal garden, which is used to water plants, adding that no rule has been violated by Sulabh while constructing the toilet.

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Arrest Parrikar or Ravi in drug case: Mickky HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

Benaulim legislator Mickky Pacheco today said that the Opposition leader Manohar Parrikar be arrested immediately if charges made against him are true or arrest the Home Minister for hatching criminal conspiracy against the former chief minister.

The home minister recently made statements that one Roy Fernandes was carrying out drugs business with support from the then chief minister Manohar Parrikar.

He also said that drug trade flourished when Parrikar was chief minister.

“The home minister said he has evidence to back his claim,” Pacheco said adding “…If this is so then the chief minister should immediately issue orders for Parrikar’s arrest and if there is no evidence then the home minister should be sacked and arrested for abetment of crime and hatching criminal conspiracy against Parrikar.”

Pacheco also stated that the drugs trade had tarnished Goa’s image worldwide.

“The sting operations in Atala and Dudu cases seem to be like a movie but I feel it is high time we need to intervene and carry out thorough investigation,” he said.

On the constant figuring of one name “Roy” in drugs case, Pacheco said, “Police have investigated almost all Roy’s in the state except for the home minister’s son.”

“I feel it is time to investigate the real Roy,” he said.

Pacheco also criticized the police role in the Cipriano custodial death case.

He demanded that the government make use of Article 311 and dismiss the tainted police officials.

Pacheco said that the law and order situation in the last four years is at the lowest.

“It is time that we addressed this issue,” he said.

NSUI targets Parrikar HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

Congress’ frontal students union has demanded immediate arrest of the Leader of Opposition Manohar Parrikar for his alleged involvement in abetting drug trade during his tenure as chief minister.

National Students Union of India (NSUI), Goa Unit president Sunil Kawthankar in a letter to Goa Governor S S Sidhu has referred to recent media statement by Home Minister Ravi Naik that claimed Parrikar supported drug lobbies during his tenure.

“Parrikar should be arrested for abetment of crime,” he said adding that he fears Parrikar may destroy or bargain it for political or any other gains.

NSUI has also demanded the Governor that assets of Director General of Police (DGP) Bhimsen Bassi should be investigated. “…As the chief of Police Department his role has been suspicious as he has maintained silence

and has refrained to act on the involvements of Senior Police officer like Veenu Bansal even after his involvement with the drug trade came to light, It seems all the authorities entrusted to protect us are sailing in the same boat and are mutually satisfying each other’s requirements to survive,” the letter reads.

Naik at a press briefing last Saturday had claimed that “drug peddlers were freely doing business in the coastal belts with blessings of Parrikar and his MLAs.” The home minister also named one Vaigankar from Arambol, who he said is involved in many drug cases was protected and supported by BJP leaders.

“Even Parrikar conducted meetings at his residence and projected him (Vaigankar) as office bearer of a BJP local committee,” Naik had said.

However, on repeated questioning, he failed to give the first name of Vaigankar.

Oppn demands criminal probe into SEZ land allotment HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

The SEZ issue came haunting the government on Tuesday as the Opposition demanded “criminal investigation“ into the matter alleging land was illegally allotted to some Special Economic Zone (SEZ) developers in 2006.

Calmly facing the caustic remarks of Mandrem ML A Laxmikant Parsekar, Chief Minister Digamkar Kamat maintained that the government has withdrawn SEZ policy and it has every intention to take back the land allotted to SEZ developers.

The Opposition raked up the issue of alleged illegal allotment of land to SEZ developers during “Question Hour “on the second day of the Winter Session of Goa Legislative Assembly.

Mandrem MLA who tabled the question about land allotted to SEZ developers in various industrial estates by Goa Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) in 2006, said the land was allotted to two companies even before they incorporated.

Peninsula Pharma Research

Narvekar corners govt over illegal scrap yards in Bardez HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

Aldona MLA Dayanand Narvekar took the government to task over illegal scrap yards operating on the agriculture land along National Highway 17 from Karaswada to Colvale village.

Raising the question of illegal scarp yards especially, those operating between Karaswada and Colvale village in Bardez taluka, during Question Hour on Tuesday, the Aldona MLA sought to know who had given them permission and what action would be taken against the operators of illegal scarp yards.

He said huge tracts of land are being used for commercial purpose and the scrap yard owners are posing threat to locals.

Narvekar came down heavily on the government for not giving him proper reply to his question.

He sought to know the num-

One held for holding fake pistol HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, FEB 1

Calangute Police on Tuesday arrested a resident of Dona Paula on charges of wielding a fake pistol at Calangute.

According to Calangute Police, Suryakant Kapoor had come to a hotel in Calangute to drop his friends, when he wielded his toy gun under the influence of alcohol.

On noticing Kapoor, locals notified the Calangute Police.

A police team rushed to the site and arrested him. Kapoor was later released on bail.

ber of scrap yards located in the jurisdiction of Bardez taluka.

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat who is also the minister for industries, in his written reply informed the House that exact number could not be given, as no survey of that nature has been carried out.

However, he told the House that a total 83 applications have been received for registration

under Goa Waste (Scrap) Recycling Unit Scheme 2010 formed by the department for Bardez taluka.

Under the scheme it is proposed to relocate scrap yards located in residential areas.

The scheme was formulated by the government when the issue had reached High Court.

A law student Jatin Ramaiya had filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) complaining of illegal operation of scarp yards in the State.

Responding to subsequent queries of the Aldona MLA, the chief minister also told the House that applications received would be scrutinised by the committees constituted for each taluka.

He also offered to place a detailed report pertaining to illegal scrap yards in Bardez taluka on the table of the House.

Passport Adalat

PANJIM (HND); Passport office, Panjim will hold a Passport Adalat on February 5, from 10 am to 1.15 pm. The adalat will be held at passport office, Passport Bhavan, Patto Plaza, Panjim.

Applicants who have applied for passport and in which clear police report is received, but still pending for more than 30 days, are advised to register their public grievances in writing with the passport officer or through email: rpo.panaji@mea.gov.in on or before 3 February 2011.

Govt to rebuild Saligao market HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

“The government will use its discretionary power to order demolition of Saligao Panchayat market building and a new building will be constructed,” Chief Minister Digambar Kamat said on the floor of the House on Tuesday.

Kamat was responding to a “Calling Attention” motion moved by Saligao MLA Dilip Parulekar.

The Saligao MLA, said the structure which was declared unsafe by the PWD in 2004 has not been demolished as yet,

and it is posing danger to life and safety of people residing in the vicinity of panchayat building.

E a r l i e r, P W D M i n i s t e r Churchill Alemao told the House that there are no clear documents of the existing structure and the Saligao panchayat has requested the department of settlements and land records to carry out the demarcation of the market complex.

The demarcation has not been carried out as yet, Churchill said.

The PWD minister also told the House that District

Utt Goenkara demands transfer of Calangute PI HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

U tt Goenkara today sought transfer of Calangute Police Inspector Manjunath Desai for improper inquiry into suspicious death of Rajendra alias Rajkumar Naik at Calangute.

Briefing media here, the organization has claimed that police are making all efforts to ensure that the suspicious death of Rajendra is shown as an accident.

“We want that PI Desai be transferred from Calangute police station…It seems that he has personal interest in the case.

He is trying to sabotage the case investigation so as the deceased’s family do not get compensation,” he said.

Rajendra, a taxi driver by profession had left for work on January 24 but did not return back home. His wife Reshma called him on mobile which he did not respond.

After a while, an unknown voice told Reshma that a van was laying abandon at Chowgm road at Saligao and that one person was shifted to Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).

Reshma told reporters that her relatives

saw her husband’s body in a pool of blood with his face completely distorted.

“His eyes were 90 percent swollen and his lips, head and others parts of his body suffered injuries,” she said adding that she strongly suspects a case of murder and not a case of accidental death as claimed by the police.

Motorbike rider Michael Gupta was arrested but after a hue-and-cry by the family members suspecting foul play.

The family also alleged that the police did not conduct panchanama.

“Relatives were informed that though Rajendra was a victim of the accident, he was also badly assaulted by unknown men ‘which might have resulted into his death.’ But Calangute police have failed to trace the assailants,” Utt Goenkara vice president Jatin Naik said.

Rajendra has left behind his wife and four minor children, who reside in a rented room at Taleigao. The NGO urged senior police officers to probe into the case thoroughly so as deceased Rajendra’s family gets justice.

Rural Development Agency (DRDA) does not demolish any old structures and it is up to the panchayat concerned to demolish old structure.

He said that his department would forward the proposal for reconstruction of panchayat market complex to DRDA. This reply was rejected by Opposition Leader Manohar Parrikar and Saligao MLA. At this point, the chief minister said the government would use its discretionary powers to demolish the unsafe structure to make way for a new building.

Panjim shops raided, banned plastic bags confiscated HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

The Corporation of the City of Panjim (CCP) on Tuesday raided couple of shops and fish vendors in Panjim market and seized 56 kg of plastic carry bags below 40 microns as a part of Chaka-Chak campaign which commenced on January 26.

The CCP inspectors along with ex-councillor and co-ordinator of Chaka Chak campaign Patricia Pinto raided shops and fish vendors using banned plastic bags.

The CCP inspector Satish Curdikar along with Nilkant Phadte, Ramdas Shetye and Pandurang Chodankar carried out the drive.

A big quantum of banned plastic bags was seized from fish vendors in the fish market however they were let off after warning.

“This being their first time they were not fined however one shop keeper was fined Rs 300 from whom 800 gms of banned carry bags were seized,” Curdikar said when contacted by Herald.

Under the law, fine of Rs 5000 can be imposed. It has been also ensured that seized carry bags are not brought into use.

Centre Pvt Ltd (PPRCPL) had put in its application on March 2, 2006 whereas the company into existence on March 30, 2006 and it was allotted land on March 28, 2006.

The IDC allotted PPRCPL 2,03,650 sq mts of area in Sancoale Industrial Estate.

Similarly, Mandrekar pointed out that M/s Planetview Mercantile Co Pvt Ltd, which was allotted 132845 sq mts of areas, in Verna Industrial Estate (VEE) Phase-IV too, was given land even before the company came into existence.

Critisizing the IDC severely, Mandrem legislator questioned the haste in which it expedited the matter of allotment of land to SEZ developers. “Is IDC given a mission to finish allotment of land at earliest?” he asked.

The date of the meeting was fixed the day -- April 12, 2006, IDC received applications.

The meeting was scheduled on April 19, and agenda of the meeting was sent on April 17.

Interestingly, some members of the Board got the agenda the day of the meeting and so did not attend it.

“The meeting was held and an important decision was made even as not all the members were present. The land was allotted in record time,” pointed out Mandrem MLA. Embarrassing the government on the issue, Mandrem MLA demanded to know what action the government will take in this matter.

“Will the government probe as to who was behind this?” He asked the chief minister.

The Chief Minister tried to justify the decision of IDC claiming that both the companies in question had initiated the process of incorporation -- before the application were made.

Furthermore, he said, the demand of the Opposition has no

meaning because SEZ policy stands withdrawn indicating that the government has no intension to grant the Opposition’s demand.

Not satisfied by the reply the Mandrem MLA nevertheless made a caustic remark, “Will the government not act against the thief if stolen goods are found?”

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GOA, WEDNESDAY, 2 FEBRUARY, 2011

Canconkars urged to rally behind Congress

UpComiNG eveNtS Anniversary celebration MAyEM(HC): the first anniversary celebration of Sri Mhalchi Pandhar Devasthan, Kudchirem-Bicholim, will be held in the Devasthan premises on February 2 and 3.

A variety of religious rituals and cultural programmes will be organised on the occasion, informed devasthan member Bhago warak. Programme includes Prawachan of Kadsiddheshwar Baba on February 2 at 8 am, while other religious rituals and cultural programmes will be on February 3.

MP Sripad Naik, Speaker Pratapsingh Rane, Health Minister Vishwajeet Rane, MLAs Rajesh Patnekar, Babu Kavlekar, Pravin Zantye and Pratap Gawas, Meghana yende, Jaidev Parab, Rajendra Kerkar, panchas and sarpanchas will attend Gazar, Fugdi and Gondhal programme on February 3.

Trek to Manali PANJIM, (HND): Eco treks Goa, an adventure group from Goa will organise a 7-day “Shirgan –tungu trek” to Manali from May 16 to 30. Besides this, the last 2 days will be allotted for sightseeing. the trek is in the scenic area between Manali and Naggar region in the Himachal Pradesh, which rises to about 12,350 feet. those interested in participating in the trek should attend a meeting scheduled at Kala Acadamy Amphitheatre, Campal-Panjim on February 5 between 3.30 to 5.30 pm. Further details can be obtained from Durgadas Parab(9422445444), Olympio Almeida (9822168112) and Amit Soyru (9422442973).

Workshop for women PANJIM(HNB): Goa College of Home Science in collaboration with the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) will organise a one-day State level workshop on ‘Empowerment of women’ in the College premises for the College and Higher Secondary school students of Goa on February 3. the workshop aims to popularize KVIC schemes for self-employment and develop the skills of block printing and screen printing. For details and registration, contact the College office.

Workshop on breathing techniques PANJIM (HND): Free workshops on "Correct Breathing technique and Corrective Breathing Exercises organised by Sri Ram yoga Mandir trust, Gujarat , based on knowledge of Rishi Patanjali, will organise at the following locations: On February 4, from 11 am to 1 pm, at Basement of Radhakrishna temple, Near Mahalakshmi temple, Panjim. On February 6, from 11am to 1 pm, at 2nd Floor, Rotary Community Centre (Entrance from opp ICICI Bank), tilak Maidan Complex, Panjim, and from 6 pm to 8 pm at Room No 2, 1st Floor Vidyadhiraj Hall, Mahalaxmi temple, Panjim.On February 11, from 6 pm to 6.45 pm, at Basement of Radhakrishna temple, Near Mahalakshmi temple, Panjim. As seats are limited, registration can be made by calling Venkatesh Betigiri on 9422443421 or email: veebee200303@yahoo.co.in

Restricted water supply

PANJIM(HND): there will be restricted water supply to Bardez and part of Bicholim talukas from February 2 to 5, due to failure of main incomer 3.3 KVA panel at Assonora water treatment plant on tuesday. Repair work has been taken up on war footing. water supply by tanker can be summoned by calling 9370698354, 2417721.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, FEB 1

Canacona Congress Block President Elvis Fernandes urged the villagers to remain united and not to fall prey to anti-elements favouring agitations, thereby disturbing smooth functioning of the Congress government. without naming anyone, but indirectly rebuking the Poinguinim MLA, Fernandes in a press statement sought to clarify repair and hot-mixing of roads in Loliem which the residents had threatened to agitate against. Of late, the local MLA assured to complete the works before May end.

Categorically stating the road was proposed by ex-MLA Isidore Fernandes during the chief minister’s visit to Loliem in February 2009, Fernandes said: “On January 24, 2011, I personally visited the PwD offices in Panjim as a deputy sarpanch of the village.”

“I was informed that the files regarding the work of the road are now with the chief minister, PwD secretary and one with PCE for approval and further procedures,” he added.

n MLA’s should redress/solve the problems of the people and see most of the roads in Canacona are taken care of, but why not in Loliem? Elected persons should not discriminate among voters once elected, your are the leader of entire electorate.

“It is good to know that almost all the people of the village are interested in the completion of the work of the road. After all, unity of people is required for the development of our village,” said Fernandes.

He further said that on the next day, he met PwD Minister Churchill Alemao who directed the PwD officers to speed up

‘Career Quest-2011’ at Fatorda HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 1

taluka level School Complex committee, Salcette, in collaboration with Jaycees Salcette Coastal, will organise ‘Career Quest 2011’ for SSC students of Salcette schools at Our Lady of Rosary HS Hall, Fatorda, from February 2 to 4.

On February 2: talk on ‘Need to choose a Career’ by Rajan Satardekar, Director, Indian Council of Cultural Relations, GoI, and ‘talk on careers in Engineering, Medicine and All India entrance exams’ by J R Rebello, Principal, Fr Agnel higher secondar y School, Verna.

On February 3: ‘Motivation on Careers’ by Karuna Satardekar, ‘Careers at Sea’ by Neeraj Aguiar, Administrator,

NUSI, Diploma courses, by Subhash Lotlikar, Principal, Fr Agnel Polytechnic, Verna.

On February 4: ‘why and how to choose a career’ and talk on Pure Sciences by tilroy Fernandes, Principal, Cuncolim United HSS, ‘Hotel Management’ by Francis Braz, Managing Director, tourism Airline Management Education, ‘travel and tourism’ by Anjali Borkar, Head of Faculty, travco Aviation, followed by a valedictory function.

Schools from Salcette may send the list of the students interested in taking part, in advance and should be accompanied by a teacher.

For further information call President of tLSCC Salcette G r o m i k o Fe r n a n d e s o n 9822142608.

Officials inspect Sancoale mangrove site HERALD CORRESPONDENT CORtALIM, FEB 1

file’s movement for early sanction.

“As per the PwD minister given word, I request all the villagers to remain united and not to fall prey to anti-elements favouring agitations and rastaroko agitations, thereby disturbing smooth functioning of the Congress government,” he stated. “we have a good performing Minister Churchill Alemao, so please wait for some more time before you all take any hasty decision,” said Fernandes.

In a counter statement of Poinguinim MLA, who in his statement, assured to complete the roads before commencement of monsoon, Fernandes said: “the said road never came to any attention of anyone else even after Canacona gave two MLAs for BJP.” “MLA’s should redress/solve the problems of the people and see most of the roads in Canacona are taken care of, but why not in Loliem? Elected persons should not discriminate among voters once elected, your are the leader of entire electorate,” added Fernandes.

‘Devan Ghoddlem, Munxan Moddlem’ focuses on marriage

Menino de Bandar HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 1

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Seasoned director Menino de Bandar’s tiatr ‘Devan Ghoddlem, Munxan Moddlem’ tiatr will be staged on February 2 at Kala Academy A/C Auditorium, Panjim, at 7.30 pm . the tiatr is about institution of marriage, the foundation of which is built on mutual love, understanding and trust between a husband and wife. But many a times these virtues erode due to infidelity indulged in by

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years, since the time Big FM made an entry in Goa. He is also in Limca Book of Records with non-stop 105 hours talk show – Radio Marathon. Versatile Uday has varied interests in various fields such as painting, playing musical instruments, writing poetry, photography, making short films and journalism.

S H o Rt ta k e S MRF felicitates staff

The awardees along with their spouses and MRF Ltd Chairman and Managing Director K M Mammen and his wife Ambika.

Photo by Alfred Fernandes

SANGUEM(HC): MRF Ltd, Goa Plant, recently felicitated 29 employees, who completed 25 years of service and another 32 employees who completed 35 years of service during a function at Farmagudi Resorts, Ponda.

MRF Ltd Chairman and Managing Director K M Mammen graced the occasion along with his wife Ambika and presented the employees with Silver and Gold Pin Awards.

Senior General Manager Michael Gracias, Production Manager t M Urian, Human Resources Manager K R Rajsekharan Pillai and other heads of departments were also present.

Speaking on the occasion, Mammen stressed on the present market scenario at national and international level and the importance of ‘team work’ for further growth of the organization and its people. the function was followed with a fellowship with ‘Manipuri Golden Boys’ entertaining the gathering with their acrobatic fire performances. the function was co-ordinated and compered by Assistant Manager (HR) Kenneth Dias.

Prital elected president VALPOI (HC): Prital Devidas Lad has been elected president of Shri Bramihni Aayee Mahila Mandal at Betkekarwada for 2011-12.

At a meeting in Betkekarwada-Valpoi, other executive members of the Mahila Mandal elected were Saroj Sandesh thakur (vice-President), Vishakha Vishwanath Gaonker (Secretary), Palak Paresh Shetye (Jt secretary), Suvarna Mahadev Lad (treasurer), Anegha Anand Gaonker (Jt treasurer) and Satyawati Satyam Shetye (member). this Mahila Mandal has been organising various activities since the last four years.

PANJIM (HND): Margao Pickup Rickshaw Association elected following office bearers and members on its executive committee for the year 2011 to 2013: Dias Francisco - President, Bepari Rafiq - Vice President, Barretto Silvertre FJ - Secretary, Naik Pandurang - Joint Secretary, Conceicao Carvalho - treasurer, Salvador Nicklaw Joao - Joint treasurer, Issac Baig, Assif Mohammad, Basuraj talwar, Jose D’Souza, Sayed Israr - Members.

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By BHARAtI PAwASKAR

So far you have only heard him.

Now watch him live tonight. the popular voice of the world of radio, RJ Uday, tagged with ‘Laughter Morning’ show on 92.7 Big FM, will be hosting the live Game Show ‘ the HCN Housie’ on February 2 at 7.30 pm on HCN Channel. Radio lovers who have fallen in love with the mesmerising voice will now be able to connect it to RJ Uday’s face as they watch him host the live game show. RJ Uday will draw the lucky numbers and announce prizes worth Rs 6 lakhs.

Excited with the idea of hosting the television show, RJ Uday Chari exclaims, “though I have been doing live shows on the radio, this will be my first live show on the television, and I am much excited with the idea.”

RJ Uday sets the tone for the day with laugher show ‘Laughter Mornings’ on Big FM, co-shared with the noted tiatrist Price Jacob, for last three-and-a-half

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either spouse, thus damaging the intimate bond beyond repair.

‘Devan Ghoddlem, Munxan Moddlem’ delves into the spiritual aspect of the sacrament of marriage and its collapse due to adultery. the story revolves around four central characters – a couple, the husband’s lover and the wife’s brother, who tries his best to convince his brother-in-law in vain to change. the cast consists of experienced artistes of the Konkani stage such as Antonette de Calangute, Antush, Satyavan tari, Gloria, Anthony Caiado and others.

Antonette de Calangute excels as the suffering wife, whilst Satyavan tari as the unfaithful husband does justice to his role.

Antush is at his usual best. Gloria, Anthony and the rest of the cast also contribute well to complete the absorbing storyline.

Laughter is provided by Comedian Jesus along with Jane and Alcin. tiatr has some interesting songs rendered by Reginald de Panchwadi, Antush, Anthony Caiado, t Britton, Baba Cielo and mimicry king Sheikh Amir.

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Revenue officials on tuesday conducted a site inspection of the mangrove, which were allegedly cut by a promoter of a marina project near Old Church, Sancoale.

Circle Inspector Kandeparkar, talathi Kerkar and Surveyor Pinto attached to Mormugao Mamlatdar office inspected the site along with the local panch Jamina Pereira.

Kerkar told Herald that on the directives of Mormugao SDM Levinson Martins, they visited the area and admitted that mangroves had been cut. “we will submit a report to the SDM,” Kerkar told Herald and a case would be booked against the owner of the property based on survey records.

He said the property as the survey records was classified as khazan which meant it was a no development zone (NDZ). the SDM directives appear to have come after GCZMA Member Secretary Micheal D’Souza called for a report from Mormugao SDM on cutting of mangroves.

HCN Housie Game Show: Watch RJ Uday tonight!

IMA Tiswadi panel installed MD GHRSSIDC Nikhil Desai, addresses the participants of the coconut craft workshop.

HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 1

GHRSSIDC has organised a design development workshop in coconut craft for 25 selected Goan artisans from all over the state in collaboration with South Asia Foundation, at Parra. the workshop which is underway will be held till February 14 and is being conducted by Sajith Gopinath, a Designer from National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad. Gopinath has a PG Diploma in Industrial Design from NID.

Asia foundation is an NGO and has been working in collaboration with GHRSSIDC to develop and organise artisans in Goa. GHRSSIDC has organised this workshop with the objective of introducing the coconut craft artisans to new designs and techniques and keep them updated about the latest trends in the market. GHRSSIDC will further support the artisans by marketing the new designs produced in the workshop through its emporia and website.

POWER SHUT DOWN FEBRUARy 2

PERNEM: From 9 am to 2 pm. Areas affected are VP Varkhand Nagzar.

FEBRUARy 4

PERNEM: From 9 am to 2 pm. Areas affected are VP tamboxemUgvem-Mopa, VP torxem.

FEBRUARy 7

PERNEM: From 9 am to 2 pm. Areas affected are Dadachiwadi VP Dhargal.

FEBRUARy 9

PERNEM: From 9 am to 2 pm. Areas affected are VP Ozarim.

FEBRUARy 11

PERNEM: From 9 am to 2 pm. Areas affected are VP Allorna-tallarna.

PANJIM (HND): Installation ceremony of new executive committee of IMA, tiswadi headed by Dr Prasad Netravalkar as President and Dr Francis Couto as Secretary was held at Hotel Mandovi recently.

GMC Dean, Dr V N Jindal was the chief guest and IMA State President, Dr Rajendra Dev was the guest of honour.

A CME ‘Overview of Urology’ was conducted by Urologist, GMC and Manipal Hospital, Dr Madhumohan Prabhu Desai.

Languages course at Dona Paula PANJIM (HND): Communicare, the Centre for languages, will start a two-month course in Hindi, Konkani and Sanskrit languages for beginners, from February 7, at Dona Paula. For enrolment, email communica_mundus@yahoo.co.in or visit Cultural centre Communicare, Row House No 2, Vivendas Goesas, La Citadel Colony (Opp Resort Cidade de Goa), Dona Paula. Ph 2456156.

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A dAY of AGitAtions

Bandh brings traffic to Uguem-Sanguem villagers stop mining trucks grinding halt at Bicholim HERALD CORRESPONDENT SANGUEM, FEB 1

The protesters block the road at Velguem.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT BICHOLIM, FEB 1

Traffic along the SanquelimPonda road came to a grinding halt at Velguem-Bicholim, as the road was blocked by residents in support of the Bandh on Tuesday.

The road was cleared only when Pale MLA Pratap Gawas and PWD officials assured to repair the road at GaowadaVelguem in Pale constituency by the month end.

It may be recalled that villagers from Velguem had called for an indefinite Bandh in the village after accusing the government of failing to repair the road at Gaowada-Velguem.

On Tuesday, a huge crowd led by the deputy sarpanch, Dattaprasad Joshi and Dinesh Sahastrabuddhe blocked the traffic on the Velguem road at about 7.30 am. They demanded that the road be repaired immediately else they would not call off the bandh. The decision of

bandh was taken at the recently held gram sabha attended by over 100 villagers.

Following the Bandh, PWD Executive Engineer Avdhut Bhavsule went to the spot and tried to pacify the villagers.

Dinesh Sahastrabuddhe and others grilled him and told that the work of the road should start immediately. Bhavsule explained that even after the tender, the work is pending due to financial approval from the government.

He assured that he would undertake the work immediately after the assembly session when the approval would take place.

The irate villagers did not listen to the PWD engineer and demanded that the MLA and the Zilla Panchayat member should give a written assurance about the project.

At about 9.30 am, MLA Pratap Gawas and ZP member Laxmikant Parab arrived at the scene. The crowd confronted

Photo by Vishant Vaze

the MLA and the ZP member accusing them of failing to honour their promise.

Speaking to media persons Dinesh Sahastrabuddhe claimed that the tender for the project was out on December 20, 2010.

"On December 30, Gawas had promised that he would back the villagers in the Bandh if the work of the road is not taken up immediately. But, even after a month, Gawas did not turn up and was reluctant to support the villagers. Accordingly, after the gram sabha the villagers took the decision of bandh in the area," said Sahastrabuddhe.

The MLA and the PWD engineer then assured that the work would begin by February 28 and the mob cleared the road.

Bicholim PI Harish Madkaikar and Mamlatdar Pramod Bhat were present at the site since early in the morning to monitor the situation.

Nagoa-Arpora locals unite to stop illegal construction HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, FEB 1

Villagers of Nagoa-Arpora on Monday joined hands to stop illegal construction in the lowlying paddy field at Rauta Vaddo, Nagoa.

In a memorandum to NagoaArpora Panchayat, the residents have alleged that illegal construction is being carried out despite the visit of the Flying Squad led by Deputy Collector Dashrath Redkar and other officials on January 4, 2011, while the panchayat has failed to take any action.

The residents also stated that the work is being carried out on war footing without obtaining any NOCs either from the local body or other government departments.

The villagers have therefore called upon the panchayat and other government departments to immediately stop the illegal construction and demolish the illegal structure so that the activity comes to a grinding halt.

Speaking to Herald, the residents are of the apprehension that the illegal construction is a Masjid which is meant to safe-

n In a memorandum to Nagoa-Arpora Panchayat, the residents have alleged that illegal construction is being carried out despite the visit of the Flying Squad led by Deputy Collector Dashrath Redkar and other officials on January 4, 2011, while the panchayat has failed to take any action. guard the vote bank of the petty political pundits keeping an eye on future electoral prospects.

“However, there are no Muslim community members in Nagoa-Arpora village except for one or two families besides a handful of migrant labourers and those catering to construction of Masjid do have other dirty ideas for the villagers, thereby diluting the peace-loving nature of the villagers and a bond of togetherness that prevails in the village for centuries together,” stated the villagers.

The villagers are however surprised with the change in ownership of paddy fields in the name of Muslim community members.

The huge construction in the low-lying areas comprises 40-

odd columns which are at the footing level.

When contacted, Nagoa-Arpora Sarpanch Agnelo D’Souza said the panchayat has served a notice on one person for site inspection on February 3.

“The panchayat has not given any permission for construction of a residential bungalow or any Masjid in the low-lying areas,” added D’Souza.

He said one middleman had approached the village to construct a compound wall in the low-lying area.

It is learnt that the villagers have also brought the matter to the notice of local MLA Dilip Parulekar and ZP member Michael Lobo, who have assured their help to the villagers in their agitation.

NGO petitions President, demands special status for Goa HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

Dissatisfied with the State government’s failure to convey the sentiments o the people to the Centre, the Goa Movement for Special Status (GMSS) has submitted a letter to the President of India, Pratibha Patil, demanding special status to Goa to protect the state’s identity.

The petition states that the Opinion Poll did not offer scope for Goans to express their basic aspirations and the need for special status.

‘It was designed for Goans to choose from extremely narrow formulation of alternatives; held in an atmosphere of fear of Goa being merged into Maharashtra; and participation of voting by migrants of non-Goan origin was permitted,” GMSS chairperson Matanhy Saldanha said while addressing a press conference He added that the Opinion Poll did not reflect the true wishes of Goans. “Therefore, these wishes must be honoured now,” the petition stated.

Matanhy said the special sta-

tus should be within the provisions of the Article 371 of the Indian Constitution.

"Due to historical reasons, Goa has the right to demand special status. Since 1961, till now, at every stage, Goans had to fight to protect their identity and their vital interests. Indeed we fear the imminent loss of our identity and cultural integrity in the face of massive influx of people from outside Goa," he said.

Saldanha pointed out that All India Congress Committee president Sonia Gandhi has made a pre-election promise during the last Lok Sabha polls that Goa would get its special status should the Congress come to power. "Don’t think that the people’s memory is short," he said.

Historian Prajal Sakhardande and others who were present for the conference also said that the then prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, in 1963, had made a promise to Goans that Goa’s culture and identity would remain unharmed and pointed out that Goa was not a part of India

when the constitution was framed, and hence Goa’s interests were never taken into consideration.

Taking a dig at the politician, he said, "in Goa politicians are not interested in special status as they don’t have personal benefits from it".

"A few legislators like Mapusa MLA Francis D’Souza and Curtorim MLA Reginaldo Lourenco raised it up in the assembly, but it looks like they are scared," he added.

‘Explosao Da Saude’ at Cuncolim

MARGAO(HR): Momenta Linda will present Explosao Da Saude at the Cuncolim bus stand on February 2 from 6 pm on the occasion of the Feast of Our Lady of Health Church, Cuncolim.

The organizers have promised a lot of glitter and pulsating music and will feature Dj Sonee (Pune), DJ Ajit (Café Mambo), Dj Sajil and Da Aggie.

In a flash agitation, villagers of Uguem-Sanguem stopped all mining trucks plying from Bimbol Mines to unloading point at Capxem on Tuesday evening, after villagers found some trucks moving in a rash and negligent manner.

According to reports, the villagers stopped trucks at Uguem Junction, after a truck carrying ore from the Bimbol Mines caused spillage of ore at one speed breaker while proceeding at high speeds.

Irked with the behaviour of the truck driver, who allegedly did not even stop after the incident, the village youth stopped all trucks carrying ore from Bimbol Mines and directed to return them to Bimbol and proceed to the unloading point via Darbandora.

The villagers pointed out that since the recent past, many truck drivers operating at the Bimbol Mines have started using the road proceeding to Capxem via Kalay and Uguem, as there is less traffic on this route.

“Trucks plying from Bimbol Mines have their route to Capxem destined via Darbandora. However, since recently many truck drivers in their hot pursuit to make more trips, have begun using the Kalay-Uguem road, thereby risking the lives of the common man,” claimed the villagers.

After stopping the vehicles for nearly two hours, the villagers demanded the truckers to return back and proceed to Capxem via Darbandora.

It may be recalled that some days ago, the trucks using the Sanguem route from Bimbol Mines were stopped at Bend-

waddo-Sanguem after local Councillor Suryadatt Naik objected the use of Sanguem route by the truckers plying from Bimbol Mines.

The villagers complained that the truckers plying from the Bimbol Mines are driving their vehicles in a rash and negligent manner and hence demanded immediate stoppage of all trucks plying from Bimbol Mines via Uguem and Sanguem town areas.

The villagers also informed that while trucks carrying ore from Uguem to Sanvordem are required to maintain a speed limit of 40 kmph and also avoid overtaking from Uguem to Sanvordem, many a truck drivers are now seen driving at a speed of over 60 kmph even in the populated areas and also resort to overtaking at any point of time.

Hunger strike near Curchorem police station kicks up dust

Suhas Savordekar and others protest outside the Curchorem police station.

Photo by Suresh Naik HERALD CORRESPONDENT CURCHOREM, FEB 1

Social worker and film producer Suhas Savordekar (64) from Sanvordem began an indefinite hunger strike from Tuesday, to protest against the non-implementation of High Court orders in connection with ore transportation.

Pratiksha Sanvordekar, Sanju Talekar, Mahesh Gaonkar, Sarathi Gaonkar, Prachi Gaonkar (8), Khalil Gaonkar (6) and president of Motor Pilot Association Shankar Dessai later joined in the strike.

The hunger strike, which began in a Shamiana in front of Curchorem police station, took an unexpected twist when a

group of youth confronted the protesters.

When Suhas Savordekar stood up to address the people gathered outside the shamiana, a group of youth rushed towards the shamiana and started shouting slogans against Savordekar.

There were heated arguments between the two groups and surprisingly, the police were mute spectators to the incident.

At that moment, Advocate Sanjit Dessai and Dhanraj Naik of the Shiv Sena appeared on the scene and confronted the youth.

Adv Dessai then contacted Curchorem PI Bhanudas Dessai and it was only then that the police interfered in the matter.

Speaking to Herald, Adv Dessai said everybody had the right to protest peacefully and nobody could take away this right.

"Non-implementation of court orders amounts to contempt of court and the High Court will take note of this," he said.

During the day, many prominent persons visited the striking residents and they included Adv Atrey Kakodkar, former Curchorem civic chief Kala Naik, president of Siddhi self help group Sunita Naik, former MPT chairman Ar vind Bhatikar, Snehlata Bhatikar, Vasco Councillor Tara Kerkar, woman activist Maria Fernandes and others.

Suhas Savordekar later alleged that the contractors and persons involved in the ore business had instigated the youth, who tried to attack them.

Incidentally, Mahesh Gaonkar, Sarathi Gaonkar and their Prachi (8) and Khalil (6) are participating in the strike to protest against the severe hardship caused to them on account of mining traffic.

The Gaonkar family resides in Guddemol-Sanvordem, about 4 kms from Curchorem. Prachi and Khalil study in a school at Curchorem. After the school ends at 1 pm, the children reach home only at 4 pm, due to heavy mining traffic.

Is MoD proposal a land grabbing tactic?

HERALD REPORTER VASCO, FEB 1

Is the Ministry of Defense’s (MoD) proposal to acquire two important tourism potential islands off Arabian Sea, St George (Grande Large) Islands and Pequeni Islands, a "land grabbing tactic"?

While the Navy claims that acquisition of islands is important due to security reasons, there are hardly any takers for the claims.

However, everybody else -the owner of one island, Emilio Costa Martins, elected representatives, boat operators, fishermen and people at large -- claim that it is nothing but “land grab tactics of the security agencies”.

It may be recalled that Raj Sabha MP Shantaram Naik is already on record stating that few former influential defence officials are out to grab these islands for their commercial viability.

Naik while addressing the people at Bogmalo on January 27 had alleged that acquisition

of islands is ‘land grab tactic’.

Speaking to Herald, St George (Grande Large) Island co-owner Emilio Costa Martins said he was approached by one person by the name Jaiswal from Delhi stating that he is interested in purchasing Grande Islands.

Acquisition of islAnds “Personally, I don’t agree that security is the only reason to acquire the islands, as literally it is difficult to target aircrafts from St George Island,” stated Martins.

“If this is the case, then there are many such vulnerable places towards the land side of the runway. Will MoD acquire these areas also,” questioned Martins.

“This is nothing, but a land grabbing tactic of some land sharks sitting in Delhi,” alleged Martins.

He further said the State government should protect these

forest officials rescue wild boar at Ponda HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARCEL, FEB 1

A wild boar which strayed into Gaunem-Bandora, Ponda, was rescued by forest officials along with the Animal Rescue Squad members on Monday morning.

Interestingly, the animal turned out to be friendly and ate what the Narvenkar family members offered. It was a rare scene for the passer-by to see a wild boar comfortably eating rice, bananas, tomatoes, co-

conut served by the Narvenkar family.

The Narvenkar family feared that the wild boar could have been hunted for meat, as it is done in many places across the State. However with the arrival of forest and Animal Rescue Squad members, the Narvenkar family heaved a sigh of relief.

Shubadha’s son Suraj said: “Due to de-forestation such animals are straying into settlements area for want of food.”

islands, as it has got tremendous tourism potential.

Cortalim MLA and Deputy Speaker Mauvin Godinho, who is leading the agitation not to permit acquisition of islands, said: “Though I have highest regards for Defense forces, but every one is not a ‘Holy Cow’ in Defense.”

“If the defense forces claims that security is concern, let them beef up the security and increase patrolling hours around the islands,” said Godinho.

However, despite repeated requests by media the Navy is yet to furnish a risk assessment report carried out by security agencies.

It is learnt that the Ministry of Home Affairs has carried out survey of lands that have been threats for aircrafts.

When Defence Minister for State Pallam Raju was in the State to commission the Indian Coast Guard ship, he had feigned ignorance about the issue in the presence of South Goa MP Francisco Sardinha.

One held for possessing drugs HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, FEB 1

A native of Uttarkand has been arrested by Anjuna Police on charges of possessing drugs worth Rs 62,000.

According to reports, Anjuna Police seized 27 gms of Charas and 7 gms of Cocaine from Vijay Siyaramnath Goswani (22) on Saturday evening at MajilwadaAnjuna.

The accused has been arrested under the NDPS Act and PSI Videsh Pilgaonkar is investigating the case.

OHERALDO

Pg6

www.oheraldo.in

O HERALD O

Why blame the politician?

Vol No CXI No: 033 Goa, Wednesday, 2 February, 2011

Lessons in democracy

M

anohar Parrikar had better watch out. If he doesn’t look sharp, the Leader of the Opposition may well be outshone by a group of ruling party MLAs – comprising Aldona MLA Dayanand Narvekar, Deputy Speaker Mauvin Godinho, Calangute MLA Agnelo Fernandes and some others – who have shown that they do not mind calling a spade a spade.

On Monday, Mr Narvekar moved an amendment motion to the report of the Business Advisory Committee (BAC), urging the Legislative Assembly to extend its current short session by one week. It is the first time in living memory that a ruling party MLA has done something like this. He was finally persuaded by his colleagues not to press matters, but by then he had made his point.

Accusing his own government of restricting the sitting of the house to only 20 days a year “to hide from the people”, he said that in the 1980s, the Legislative Assembly used to sit till midnight to discuss issues. Even in 2000, he said, the House sat for 37 days. He charged that ever since this government took over in 2007, the Legislative Assembly was being allowed to sit for only 20 days a year, when it actually should sit for at least 65 days.

It is easy to dismiss Mr Narvekar’s outburst as arising out of frustration at being dropped from the cabinet. The point is, whether that is true or not, the fact is that he is right!

The Legislative Assembly is representative of the will of the people of Goa. Its members represent the 40 constituencies that cover the state’s entire landmass and its electorate.

Democracy in Goa operates through the Legislative Assembly, apart from local self government institutions like the Zilla Panchayats, the Village Panchayats, the Municipalities and its lone Municipal Corporation.

The government is answerable and accountable to the people through the Legislative Assembly. That is why it is all the more important that this body properly debates and decides all matters of importance. Curtailing the number of days of sitting of the Assembly is no more and no less than snubbing the electorate of the state. It curtails the right of the people to call the government to account.

As Leader of the Opposition Manohar Parrikar said, the Legislative Assembly should meet for at least 40 days in a year. It is only when each and every member has a right to ask all the questions (s)he wants, raise the concerns of the people in his or her constituency and properly debate each motion brought before the House that democracy can function unfettered. Curtailing the sessions to the point where questions remain unanswered and get carried over to the next session is – as Mr Narvekar said – subverting transparency.

K

Not the best

erala has been voted the top travel and tourism destination in India in a poll conducted by the prestigious ‘Outlook Traveller’ magazine. The awards were decided by a survey conducted by the reputed consumer research company Nielsen, among 4,000 of the magazine’s readers, who responded to an eight-page questionnaire to decide which was the best destination.

Goa’s Tourism Department should not take any consolation in the fact that this state won the ‘Favourite Winter Destination’ award. There were only four contenders for the latter, and 29 for the former. Instead, it’s time we started finding out what’s going wrong.

I

Goa lacks an independent think-tank, which can work out the real priorities and concerns of this small state, says FReDeRicK NORONHA

n today’s Goa, it’s a fashion to blame the politician for all our ills. If it rains too much in any year, then our political class is at fault. Remo Fernandes has a song about blaming politicians (or, one particular politician, in those times) for all our woes.

We do have a rather hard-working, rapacious figure called the politician, who knows gold when he strikes it, and is willing to go to any extent, to get it. But, I find it hard to believe that this animal is so intelligent, that his work can bring to nought the combined results of everyone else!

To me, politicians are a reflection of the society we have: greedy, uncaring, not bothered about tomorrow, selfish, and obsessed with self pleasure.

Have they changed drastically over the years?

I’m not very sure that the politician today is significantly more despicable than the one from the times of the Parrikar era, the dissident-prone 1990s, the Rane regime, or the Tai or Bandodkar family-run businesses. Maybe the stakes have got higher, far higher. But the media has also become more competitive, more active, more aggressive and shrill.

So the political class is getting exposed like never before. The Opposition also knows how to fuel public ire, in the hope of coming into power and getting a chance to play the very same games being played by the ruling guys (many of them, their old comrades).

For now, politicians are blamed for everything.

They are behind our land rackets, corruption, communalism and have been building antagonisms between different sections. There are responsible for spread of drugs on the coast. There are also societal inefficiencies. The fact is that Goa is simply losing out in the competitive race.

To some extent, the politician does deserve the blame. But, by finding a convenient scapegoat, are we not trying to absolve ourselves of our responsibilities? Land-rackets feature in our newspapers, on a daily basis. We have seen land acquisition laws, that are used to threaten landowners who are unwilling to sell their land. There is also the pressure from people wanting fashionable second-homes in Goa, as prominent urban planner Charles Correia has noted. At another level, people owning fast money in the big cities —it’s almost as if they have access to printing presses that churn out hard cash — are able to buy land and property at a phenomenal

Those of us who follow world developments and affairs may be concerned about non-partisan uprisings in Tunisia and Egypt; and also Southern Sudan’s referendum on independence from the north. Mohamed El Baradei, an Egyptian, has said “I wish that we didn’t have to go to the streets to impress on the regime that they need to change”! This message is so appropriate to our electorate. I hope that these governors of policy and administration pay serious heed to these uprisings.You can only push and pillage so far and you have gone too far already, is media’s regular message.

The message from Sudan’s split concerns special status for Goa. Get it before the powder keg blows sky high.

I appreciate the support of Dy Speaker Mauvin Godinho to those who oppose acquisition of the islands of St George. He should make his point well heard in the assembly during the session. He will surely get support from his colleagues.

Instead of pointlessly marching to the assembly complex and disrupting traffic for hours – only the ‘aam admi’ will be the victim – it will be more sensible for Mauvin to initiate a signature campaign against the islands acquisition, and subsequently make a representation to the Prime Minister, President, Defence Minister, Chief of Navy, etc.

Mask discovered at Darmstadt Was discovered at Darmstadt one mask which dates back to 1616 and that one German archaeologist claims that it belongs to the acclaimed Dramatist William Shakespeare.

Kings pay visit

The Kings of England paid a visit to Lord Mount Stephen in his Castle at Brocket who became filthy rich out of sheer hard work although his father was a humble carpenter.

Pernicious administration

At one meeting it was expressed that many years of pernicious administration dragged the coeval crown of Portuguese Nationality to its inglorious downfall from where there is no redemption.

Consequences of outcome

There are multiple consequences in regards to economical and political outcome should the tenancy act be implemented.

Whither Kabrastan?

Mural Karol, Navelim Politicians do not want to resolve the Kabrastan issue. They are just playing politics. Their concern for Muslims is mere lip service.

Everyone knows that both BJP and Congress are united to deprive the Muslims of their rights. Wherever a site for the Kabrastan is proposed, there is an objection, especially from the Catholic community.

Everybody living in this state, whether Goan or non-Goan, deserves basic respect and dignity in death.

Road to ruin Belinda Braganza, Batim Goa is a small state with a lot of pressure on the land. People have already started building illegal houses in fields. With all this, I don’t think four-laned roads are a huge necessity (‘Broad roads are a necessity’

by P L Fernandes, Herald, 29 Jan). There is an alternative.

Instead of widening the existing roads and causing damage to roadside businesses, why can’t we build underground tunnels and flyovers? It will mark a new era for a beautifully developed Goa.

Walk the talk Agnelo P Furtado, Chinchinim Under the Draft RP-2021, a Taluka-Level Technical Committee (TLTC) is to be formed

We, as a society, are no less culpable. If you look at all the issues concerning us today, there are systemic societal failures at its very root. Okay, let’s accept that the system is made for corruption. Some of our laws are such, that there is a huge gap between the returns for staying within the almost-impossible limits of honesty and the returns on breaking the law.

So how do we manage to change the situation? Are we going to wait for our enlightened to wake up to the situation, and debate it in the assembly (which meets for only a very few days each year, regardless of who is in power)?

The other day, the legal advice given in a real-estate magazine surprised me. All plots are termed as agriculture property in Goa. Foreigners cannot purchase a plot, and any such purchase would be illegal. What does this mean for a society which has such a large section of its population out of the State, and may technically be foreign nationals?

Is it that we just disinherit them?

The laws on “renovation” of existing houses can be twisted in an equally bizarre manner. Groups like the GBA - whatever its limitations -have been discussing issues about planning and real estate.

But, when this happens, the intense politicking among different groups and king-sized egos ensure that their efforts are dragged to the ground.

Viewed in another angle, corruption is the fallout of the deliberate lack of transparency, the artificial bottlenecks deliberately created, and the great hurry

we have to “get the job done”. But while we blame the DNA of the political class, few have used the Right to Information Act, for instance.

If police recruitments are done based on dubious criteria, can we expect efficient policing? If the grassroots (panchayats and district administrations) are allowed to run in questionable ways, with only the facade of democracy and transparency in place, can we expect anything better?

Sometimes, I even feel sorry for the politician.

He is treated like a condom, to be used and discarded. Politicians do the dirty work of the lobbies that run our society. The lobbies get away unnoticed, except in the rare Radia case. Politicians take the blame, get disgraced sometimes, and fade away into obscurity or occasional notoriety.

Needless to say, the political “masks” are rewarded for the services rendered, while ruling the roost.

But to hold them accountable for all the ills in our society is grossly missing the point.

I came across voices from the industry expressing dismay about the manner in which Goa is now being projected by a section of the national media (which was earlier rewarding it ‘best State’ prizes). But while industry is upset with the “image”, is anyone willing to cut down on greed, reduce profits, build social capital and invest in the future generation, in a way, that makes a difference? We don’t see business leaders of the calibre of an Azim Premji yet in Goa. It is lobbies, and the intense rivalries within Goa, that blocks the possibility of a national university coming up here. Ditto is the case for all the political toppling which we saw in the 1990s (has anyone spared a thought of where these have vanished too, after 1999?) Our politicians are merely aligning their selfish interests with the protective cover that a Congress, or a BJP being in power in New Delhi, can offer them. And, making the most while the sun shines. To notice their doings, but ignore wider social fissures and failings, is self-delusionary. Take this description of Goa: “Of this land I can tell you that it is the mother of despicable villains, and stepmother of honest men. Because those who are here to get rich, always float on water...”

This is Luis de Camoens, the national poet of Portugal, speaking of Goa in the sixteenth century! He spent years here, and should know. Even if our politicians had to completely vanish tomorrow, there would still be issues to deal with. Many!

Of politicians and mafias

S

Vishal D’Costa, Cuncolim

2 February 1911

rate.

The solution, we are told, is some vaguely-defined “special status”. I guess this would work as well as the “reservations for Goans” promised a decade ago, by politicians like Luizinho Faleiro. These “solutions” create a false sense of security, while continuing business as usual.

Politicians only sniff the suspicions, that sections of society have for each other, and use communalism as a means of garnering votes. This is when it suits them. Aren’t they a reflection of, say, the communalism that goes unchecked in part of our media?

Okay, our politicians fail in their duties. What about us? Are our so-called intellectuals, our bureaucracy, our industry, “civil society”, and the other supposed pillars of society, doing their job? What about educationists and the religious? Even the media needs to be faulted, for going after the occasional sensational story, but has been putting in very little of consistent work to correct the long-term, systemic problems. For long, Goa has felt the lack of an independent think-tank, which can work out the real priorities and concerns of this small state. The alternative to this is allowing our agendas set by lobbies and vested interests. Or waiting for a long while, till it is apparent that something is going really wrong, and then blaming Mr Politician for it all.

ave me, save me,” Ram woke up shouting from his sleep.“What’s the matter Ram, why are you so frightened?”

Shyam asked him. “In my dream I saw someone dousing me with kerosene, he wanted to burn me,” Ram replied.

“You are an ordinary mortal, I don’t think that anyone will have animosity against you so that he would go to the extent of killing you like the way Additional Collector Yeshwant Sonawane of Nashik was killed by oil mafias since he objected to pilferage of kerosene,” Shyam advised him.

“No, but a few days back I had a quarrel with a ration shop owner when he denied me my monthly quota of kerosene. He had threatened me with dire consequences. These traders, black marketers all fall in the same boat,” Ram replied in a worrying tone.

“Don’t worry so much, the guilty will be punished,” Shyam tried to console him.

“Yes, rules exist but due to connivance of politicians with black marketers, honest government officers and activists fall prey to the sinister designs of the mafias. For your information, in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar, there have been five dastardly attacks on tehsildars by oil and sand mafias in the recent past in which 4 were grievously injured and a tehsildar of Nevasa was eventually killed. In fact, he was gunned down right in his office. In one case,

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Deadly nexus

Beware of Goan powder keg Mauvin, we’re with you

100 Years Ago

OPINION

the attack was organised by a son of the former NCP M P Tukaram Gadakh, since the adulteration activities on his petrol pump were unearthed by the said tehsildar”, Ram explained.

“Very tragic” Shyam nodded. “You may probably remember that a 27 year old activist, Manjunath, was killed in a similar manner, by a petrol pump owner in Lakhimpur Jheri in Uttar Pradesh, on November 2005. The pump owner Pawan Mittal was awarded the death penalty by the court. However, since his appeal is pending, he is yet to be hanged,” Ram said.

“It’s true that in our liberal democratic country, the offenders find it very easy to escape the noose,” Shyam admitted, but asked how the oil rackets flourish?

“Look, international fuel prices are going up and the number of vehicles are ever increasing. The Central government supplies 95 lakh ton kerosene to states and also gives a subsidy of Rs19 per litre, so that the kerosene reaches the households of the poor. But instead, the kerosene falls in the hands of oil mafias. On an average, 38 per cent kerosene is used for either adulterating petrol or diesel, or for resale.

The pilferage takes place once the tankers are out of the oil companies,” Ram continued.“But are the laws not strong enough to deal with the offenders?” Shyam asked, “Instead of giving more teeth to the law, the attempts are made by

A privilege, not a right

Christine Russon, Canada

This refers to my letter ‘Arrogant foreigners in Goa’ which appeared in a recent edition of Herald. I am Canadian. The same visa rules and laws apply to me. It is a privilege to visit a foreign country, not a right, and as visitors, we must respect the rules. I don’t like the two-month rule either, but I respect it.

A British tourist who lives in a Goan village for five months out of the year might feel disconnected from the harsh realities that Indian citizens must deal with every day. While decent European or North American tourists might not be terrorists, there cannot be separate rules for us and other visitors. I wonder what Brian Morris (Herald, 1 Feb, ‘Arrogant foreigners?’) meant by his observation that “class issues and Indian tourists are of concern.”

Furthermore, it is illogical to compare foreign nationals who come to Goa to live off their savings for part of the year, to Goans who settle abroad. The latter must show all their assets to the government of that country and undergo a thorough selection process, while the former need only answer basic questions on a form, and pay a fee. A tourist visa is not a residence visa; and does not entitle someone to remain in Goa. I would like to know what those foreign nationals who have chosen to stay beyond six months are doing here. Are they working for local companies and paying income tax to the Indian government?

Viva ‘Chaka Chak’ Rohit Rebelo, Verna I would like to thank Patricia Pinto and Clinton Vaz for organising ‘Operation Chaka Chak’ to clean up parts of the state. The trump card – of getting students to help – is that it inculcates a greater sense of pride of seeing a cleaner state and knowing you were involved in making it happen.

I appeal to the ‘Chaka Chak’ organisers to start an awareness campaign for households to segregate wet waste and dry waste, and educate people on how to compost and recycle. This is our only chance to save Goa’s image as a beautiful holiday destination.

the government to give more concession to the trading community.

For example, as per Marketing Discipline Guidelines 1998, a fine of Rs1 lakh was imposed on a dealer involved in adulteration.

Besides, his license for sale and supply of fuel was suspended for 45 days. However, in 2001, the penalty was reduced to Rs30,000 and duration of suspending the license was brought down to 30 days,” Ram explained. “Besides I don’t think that there is any quality control over the petrol,” Shyam said.

“The Central Government had begun using a chemical marker in kerosene, to check its diversion for adulteration in 2007. But that system was stopped in 2009 due to some unexplainable reasons,” Ram replied.

“By the way, what is the progress made by the Maharashtra government in nabbing the culprits responsible for the death of Addl Collector, Yeshwant Sonawane? Shyam asked. “The main accused Popat Shinde is dead. By now, over 200 raids on oil mafias have been carried out,” Ram said.

“That means cops arrive after the goons get away, a string of measures are announced after duty abiding officers lose their lives. When this will end? Shyam wondered aloud.

“In our liberal democracy, it is hard to expect a quick solution but if there is a will to end corruption, there will always be a way,” Ram assured him confidently.

Letters to the Editor

Letter of the Day

and the revised village plans are to be sent to each panchayat and kept open for 30 days to verify that all the essential inputs of the village level committee are adhered to and no anomalies are introduced. But the government has not followed its own rules, which vitiates the whole process of bottom-up planning.

We appreciate Herald’s initiative to highlight issues of public interest, but regret that it has failed to stress the importance of keeping these plans open for 30 days.

By Raju Vernekar

Naval ship disaster SND Poojary, Miramar The Indian Navy frigate INS Vindhayagiri sank when it was involved in a collision with a merchant vessel on Sunday near the Mumbai harbour. Naval ships possess sophisticated navigational equipment. If they can get damaged so easily, just visualise their worthiness in a war like situation.

What was the captain doing when the accident occurred? There will be a routine investigation; and the report so generated will be buried in the Defence Ministry’s archives. They will then build and commission another naval ship in her place, as if nothing happened!

For the love of football

Many Goans, who are abroad, log on to the net to find the results, but their efforts, are in vain.

It is hoped that Goan football league results are given the same media coverage, which is given to others, in future.

Paths of Wisdom The Dilwara Temples

Controversial head injuries Stephen Dias, Dona Paula Dr Silvano Sapeco, Prof and Head of Forensic Department of GMC had allegedly reported that Cipriano’s death was due to head injury caused by a blunt object. The CT scan interpretation had not reported the same findings earlier. This shows that there may have been some fault on the doctor’s part to interpret the record from the scanning. In order to clear doubts from public minds, a second opinion from an expert in the field of CT scan, could have been taken to interpret the same record from a renowned government hospital located elsewhere.

Why this status quo?

Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco The UPA-2 government was quick to replace the then Home Minister Shivraj Patil with P Chidambaram, post 26/11 terror attacks.

Some members from the CLP and Opposition demanded replacement of the Home Minister in the wake of allegations of the police-drug mafia nexus, custodial death of Cipriano Fernandes, etc. Why is the Congress Party in the state shying away from a portfolio reshuffle? What is the logic of adopting a status quo? It is understood that the state government sends a periodic report to the High Command on the performance of the various state ministers. It seems necessary for an intervention if there is a genuine need for the Home Ministerial portfolio change.

Sam Mendes, Cavelossim

Goa’s slaughter houses

It is really disappointing to read the sports section sometimes. We get all the information of the English Premiership, the Spanish League, as well as other results in football coupled with general sports coverage. I appreciate all this. However, I fail to understand why are the results of the 1st Division being sidelined?

Cipriano Fernandes’s death is a typical case of police brutality. Mahanand committed so many murders. Cipriano Fernandes was no such murderer! Police catch those who kill cows for its meat, while in the police stations, they kill human beings. Police stations are becoming slaughter houses!

J R Menezes, Panjim

T

he exquisitely carved marble temples of Dilwara in Mount Abu are the finest examples of Jain temples in India. The Jains built some beautiful temples at other places in Rajasthan too, but the best are undoubtedly those at Dilwara. The ornamental detail spread over the minutely carved decoration of ceilings, doorways, pillars, panels and niches is simply marvellous while the translucent shell-like treatment of marble surpasses anything seen elsewhere.

Mount Abu, where the Dilwara temples are located, is referred to as Arbudgiri in ancient Hindu and Jain scriptures and is the only hill-station in Rajasthan, as well as a very important Jain pilgrimage centre.

There are altogether four important temples in Dilwara: the Vimal Vashi temple, the Luna Vashi temple, the Adinath temple and the Parshvanath temple. Among all these, the Vimal Vashi and the Luna Vashi are the most notable.Legend has it that Hindus revere this place because once Nandini, the cow of the venerable sage Vashishth, was trapped in a deep gorge and could not free herself. The sage appealed to Lord Shiva for assistance.

The Lord sent Saraswati, the divine stream, to help flood the gorge so that the cow could float up. This he did with the assistance of Arbud, the mighty snake. This spot came to be known as Mount Arbud and was later changed to its present form – Mount Abu. Source : Monuments in India)

Printed and published by Vinayak Pai Bir for and on behalf of Herald Publications Pvt Ltd. Printed at Herald Publications Pvt Ltd, Plot No: L-135, Phase II, Verna Industrial Estate, Verna, Salcete, Goa. Published at PO Box 160, Rua Sao Tome, Panjim, Goa - 403001. Editor-in-chief: Mr R F Fernandes. Editor: Ashwin Tombat (Responsible under PRB Act). Regd Office: St Tome Road, Panjim, Goa. Tel: 2224202, 2228083, Fax: 2222475 (all Editorial); 2230535, Fax: 2225622 (Advertising); Margao: 2737689. Mumbai Office: 16-A, Bell Building, 2nd Floor, 19 Sir PM Road, Fort, Mumbai - 400001 (Tel: 22840702/22844908). RNI No: 43667/83.

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

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INDIA

GOA, WEDNESDAY 2 FEBRUARY, 2011

oPinionated Scam Sutra

BY JOHN ERIC GOMES

Just like the Kama Sutra spells out every aspect of sex, every aspect of corruption reaching growing heights has been indulged in, right from the controversial 1948 Jeep scam – by then Defence Minister Krishna Menon – worth a princely Rs80 lakh in those days!

Major scams include the Bofors Rs64-crores kickbacks, Harshad Mehta ripping banks to rig the stock markets (estimated at Rs5,000 crore), Lalu’s fodder scam of Rs950 crore, Abdul Karim Telgi’s court stamp scam of Rs30,000 crore, Ketan Parekh’s scam that wiped out Rs115,000 crore from the stock market, the Satyam scam, the Madhu Koda scam, the Tehelka sting scam, George Fernandes’s ‘coffin-gate’ during the Kargil war, sundry bank scams, corporate scams, the CWG scam, the 2G scam, the Adarsh Society scam and plenty more omitted, owing to space constraint.

The Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) has issued orders for the demolition of the illegal Adarsh Building within three months. This will be a test case, with the world watching, since it involves defence officers at the highest level, politicians, bureaucrats, legal procedures and multiple agencies. It is also a high-cost, high-rise building, in an environmentally sensitive area with security concerns, and is a fait accompli. The usual tactic increasingly used by corrupt government officials is to issue illegal permissions, and if that is challenged/does not work, somehow regularise the fait accompli!

Many ingenious ways are used to achieve this. The most common is to build quickly while the matter is stalled in files and courts, and then to subvert demolition orders, use the excuse of waste of funds, shortage of accommodation, saving innocent third parties, imposing fines, etc. Those responsible are protected, and fines are easily paid from all the windfall black money profits made.

The use of high-priced lawyers, bribing of witnesses and so on has become a well-established procedure. Vigilance in the central and state governments is largely discretionary, and only after a media/public outcry do governments agree to institute inquires. Will shielding/protecting the chief ministers, politicians from the ruling party and high officials involved, delaying demolition, changing laws, etc – which has almost become the norm – be resorted to?

The Lavasa project has got away by compromising and paying a fine. The Adarsh Society scam could be a turning point in our fight against rampant corruption that is corroding the nation's soul, if complete demolition is accomplished (experts have precisely demolished even bigger buildings), so that all those responsible feel the heat. It will make a big change in India’s ‘aam admi's’ so-far futile fight against allpervading corruption.

The Supreme Court, while pulling up the MP government for misuse of discretionary power in allotting 20 acres of prime land at a throwaway price to the KT Trust – which has L K Advani and Venkaiah Naidu as trustees – bemoaned that the powers meant to be used for the public good have been used for just the opposite during the last 50 years!

When it was argued that we were better than highly developed nations like the USA, where pardon is granted to convicts after they donate to party funds, the Supreme Court retorted that we were worse. It gave the example of upholding a conviction against a municipal corporator, after which the Haryana government exercised its power to grant a pardon.

Even after this was set aside, the government again nullified this order.

The Goa government circumvented the Supreme Court’s demolition order by an instant ordinance in the Cidade de Goa case. With corruption reaching every profession and touching even the highest echelons in the Judiciary, a drastic change is the crying need.

The recent much-touted cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has been likened to musical chairs. The same old stalwarts/heavyweights – never mind their non-performance, scandals and corruption – are all still there. There is no sign of new young blood being infused.

Bureaucrats are now reportedly trying to dilute the Right to Information (RTI) Act. Can we surmise what will happen if an RTI is filed, asking to know how much the government spent from the public exchequer on the President’s recent ‘private’ trip to Goa with her family, for boat rides, five-star stay, etc? Our Governor first says he is not a public authority, and then seeks exemption under the Constitution, as the Governor cannot be held personally responsible for what (s)he does in the course of duty.

The RTI has been touted as a weapon against corruption.

But as long as high-level functionaries, senior bureaucrats and top politicians are kept immune or can hide behind exceptions to the rule of law, corruption can never be tackled successfully.

What is the immediate solution? First we must ensure that Mahatma Gandhi’s maxim: “Be the change you want to see,” is not merely a cliché. The Goa Chaka Chak campaign is an example. Start right from home. Each one must walk in the path of right action; segregate and take care of one’s own garbage; employ civic sense and be a good citizen.

Second, there has to be a basic behavioural revolution. Or, God forbid, we will need a Maoist revolution!

We require long term solutions. Right now, the ‘danda’ is required. All scams, without exception, must be expeditiously investigated and result in severe punishment for those giving illegal permissions, with deterrent consequences like complete demolition, confiscation of illegal assets and jail terms as per the law.

Judicial, administrative and the long-overdue police reforms must be expedited. Lok Pals and Lok Ayuktas must start functioning. Everyone, from President to ‘aam admi’, has to come equally under the majesty of the law. Sirens should be used only for emergencies, and authorised only for ambulances, fire tenders, and for the police only when they are chasing criminals!

People in Goa, right from the village level, are now aware and have empowered themselves. Associations in every profession must develop the spine to act and clean up corruption internally. Political parties that depend on financial and criminal muscle for elections can only be smashed by an enlightened public.

Nitish Kumar has shown the way in Bihar. Even though his stock has grown, he remains true to his humble origins.

Last but not least, the renaissance will have to come from our youth – whom we have to give genuine education and not merely qualifications – to achieve rising India’s full potential, where ‘Satya Mev Jayate’ (Truth Shall Prevail) is not just a slogan on our national emblem.

Fishermen killing: India asks Lanka not to upset ties PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 1

Taking a serious note of the killing of two Indian fishermen allegedly by the Sri Lankan Navy, India today told Colombo that use of force against them should not be repeated and asked it to take a decision that will not upset bilateral ties.

External Affairs Minister S M Krishna also directed Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao to convene a meeting of the Indo-Sri Lanka Joint Working Group on the issue around February 15 to discuss the killing of the Indian fishermen threadbare.

“I hope that one thing is certain and one thing is common that regardless of whatever the circumstances are use of force and killing fishermen has to be something part of the history. It cannot be the present and the future. The Government of India is fully committed (to safeguard the rights),” Krishna told reporters after briefing Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi about the talks Rao had with Sri Lankan authorities yesterday.

He said Indian officials have pointed out to Sri Lankan authorities that use of force against fishermen who crossover into the other country’s border does not happen even with countries like Pakistan.

“It has been pointed out to Sri Lankan authorities that it does not happen with Pakistan or any other country and why should it happen with Sri Lanka alone,” he said.

Noting that India has very cordial and friendly relations with Sri Lanka, Krishna said, “So it is in this context that the Sri Lankan Government will have to revisit the question and take some decision which will not upset the bilateral relations between our two countries.”

Krishna said Rao met Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday and conveyed India’s concerns over the issue of fishermen being killed

n External Affairs Minister S M Krishna also directed Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao to convene a meeting of the Indo-Sri Lanka Joint Working Group on the issue around February 15 to discuss the killing of the Indian fishermen threadbare. allegedly by the Sri Lankan Navy.

“The President of Sri Lanka fully appreciates India’s position and he also shared our concerns.

He has ordered a serious investigation into the circumstances that led to the killing and he is awaiting the report of the investigation,” he said.

Rao was also present during the meeting with Karunanidhi. Krishna said the Joint Statement issued between the two countries yesterday fully assures the protection of the fishermen of India and that they can pursue their activities without any hindrances.

“If there are anything, the Government of India will certainly intervene and they will take the necessary appropriate steps to assure the fishermen that they could continue (with their) work unhindered,” he said.

The Minister said the Government is directing the Coast Guard to be vigilant as fishermen don’t respect territorial waters as they go and fish “wherever the catch is and fish is available.”

“Trespass will be normal in case of fishermen,” he said.

The meeting comes a day after Karunanidhi asked Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to advise Colombo in “strong terms” to refrain from such “uncalled for attacks.”

Omar favours political solutions to J&K PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 1

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today emphasised that “political solutions for the problems besetting” the state have to be worked out on a pragmatic basis.

“Political discussions are inescapable if a lasting and enduring solution to the problem of militancy in the state is to be achieved.

“I would, therefore, once again emphasise that political solutions for the problems besetting Jammu and Kashmir have to be worked out on a pragmatic basis,” he said while addressing the Chief Ministers’ Conference on Internal Security here.

Omar said most of internal security problems were rooted in politics.

“As a matter of fact, even armed insurgencies are essentially struggles for political space. It has been realised over a period of time that issues involving contrary positions can never be resolved through violent agitation and confrontation,” he said.

The chief minister said the most obvious approach would be to seek appropriate political solutions for political problems.

“A timely political solution to a problem would ensure that it does not balloon into a fullfledged law and order or internal security situation.

Delhi police officers break up demonstrating activists from the Students Federation of India protesting outside the Egyptian Embassy in New Delhi on Tuesday. The students protested to show their solidarity with Egyptians demanding the ouster of embattled president Hosni Mubarak.

UP blames ITBP officials for rampage by aspirants PTI LUCKNOW/BAREILLY, FEB 1

The Uttar Pradesh government today blamed ITBP officials for the rampage by paramilitary aspirants, saying there was no coordination with the district administration and poor management at the camp.

“The ITBP did not coordinate with the district administration. Due to improper arrangement made by them, the aspirants, whose number was about 1.5 lakh went on the rampage,” an official spokesman said here.

For the recruitment of tradesman, ITBP had sought applications from 11 states. Till yesterday, 80,000 aspirants had arrived in Bareilly and their number increased to about 1.5 lakh today, he said.

Earlier, in the day tension broke out in Bukhara village of Bareilly when thousands of ITBP aspirants went on a rampage, torched a number of vehicles and pelted stones after they failed to submit their forms due to alleged mismanagement by the authorities.

Thousand of youths, who had gathered at the camp to submit their recruitment forms and obtain a token for physical test, failed to get their forms deposited, sources said here.

Soon after that, they went on a rampage and torched seven buses including five of roadways, a petrol pump and a number of two-wheelers and indulged in brick batting, they said.

“ITBP had not informed the administration that they had sought application from 11 states.

They also have not expected that such a large number of aspirants would arrive and failed to devise a plan to cater to such a situation,” the spokesman said.

n “The ITBP did not coordinate with the district administration. Due to improper arrangement made by them, the aspirants, whose number was about 1.5 lakh went on the rampage.” Official Spokesman The ITBP officials also did not inform the district administration. They just gave a routine information, which lacked details to the local police.

They did not inform state headquarter about any such recruitment drive, he said.

He said that ITBP had now informed the aspirants that they can send their forms through post and they had been given one month’s time for the same.

“The aspirants will be called later on separate dates by ITBP after making arrangements.”

The agitating youths also pelted stones on AIR and Doordarshan offices.

Senior officials of the administration and police have reached the spot and situation was stated to be under control.

Six additional companies of PAC have been provided to maintain law and order, the spokesman said.

The aspirants had last night clashed with farmers over plucking of sugarcane from their fields.

After the farmers objected to their behaviour, the aspirants torched the cane fields following which the farmers opened fire at them.

Sex education on canvas PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 1

Fictional superhero Superman is now promoting the message of safe sex through an art exhibition here aimed at spreading AIDS awareness and sex education among youth in India.

A new exhibition featuring oils on canvas by artist duo Jiten Thukral and Sumir Tagra addresses the themes of safe sex practices and increased sexual activity among Indian youth against the backdrop of traditional perceptions of sexuality.

“Superman is every girl’s man.

He wears latex and saves the world. He is a larger than life character and we have used him as a metaphor to promote safe sex,” says Jiten Thukral.

The exhibition “Put it on, Again” continues from their solo exhibition “Put It On” held in 2007 in New York and is on display at the Nature Morte gallery in Delhi till February 26.

“We live in the age of Internet where we can see porn films but can not talk about sex to elders. We thought its time to analyse our behaviour towards sex through art,” says Sumir Tagra, calling their effort a behavioural change exercise.

Different schools in Delhi have been invited to send children to the exhibition.

7 Khoon... a black comedy not seen in B’wood for ages: Priyanka PTI MUMBAI, FEB 1

Actress Priyanka Chopra, who essays the role of a woman in every stage of her life from the age of 20-65, in her next release ‘7 Khoon Maaf ’, says the film is a black comedy not seen in Bollywood for ages.

“This is not a drama or suspense thriller. There is humour and wickedness…a black comedy not seen for a long time,” Priyanka told reporters here last

night.

The actress described her character Suzanna as “difficult and complicated.”

‘7 Khoon..’ is Suzanna’s journey to find love. Ageing on screen was the most difficult part. I modelled my older look on the physical appearance of my mother,” the 28-year-old actress said.

Priyanka said the experience of working with Naseeruddin Shah, Irrfan Khan and Annu

Kapoor, who play three of her seven husbands in the movie, was “nerve wrecking”.

“I had never worked with them before. Annu Kapoor is a friend of my father but I had not worked with him. I did a workshop with Naseeruddin Shah before the film went on floors. I had to learn a lot from Irrfan as an actor,” she recalled.

“We shot the first schedule with Irrfan where Suzanna’s age is 37-40 years. I was so nervous

and relied a lot on my director,” she said.

The ‘Dostana’ star said she was most compatible with John Abraham as she knew him well having done three films earlier.

“I also shared good rapport with Neil Nitin Mukesh and Vivan during the shoot,” she said.

To a question on intimate scenes in the film, Priyanka said the film was based on marriage.

“There can be no marriage with-

out intimacy. Love and pain come with several other emotions. I have tried to enact them to the best of my comfort.”

Director Vishal Bharadwaj said Priyanka was the finest actress among her contemporaries. “I want to explore her singing talent and am planning to cast her in a musical,” he said.

Priyanka said singing was her passion and she was waiting for a good opportunity to showcase her skills.

APPOINTMENTS

HE RA LD

NEWS

Pg10 `

GOA, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 2, 2011

FROM PAGE 1 Rs 200 cr royalty lost

office of Ministry of Environment and Forest to ensure that ECs were not violated.

Opposition Leader, however, pointed out the State Government has power to make rules to stop illegal mining. There is provision under the Mines and Mineral (Regulation & Development) wherein the State Government enjoys power to frame rules or issue notification to ensure that minerals are not exhausted.

Alarm bells over corruption

which he read out in the House.

Pointing out to the sad state of primary health centres, he stressed upon a policy decision on running of hospitals and PPP and at the same time called for holding back PPP for one year till the next Government was elected.

Continuing his tirade against mining, Narvekar demanded no licenses should be issued to new mines and called for de-silting of rivers by bringing in a special programme. If in this way the Government was trying to move in the mining sector, Goans will one day become endangered species, he warned.

Asserting corruption had reached alarming levels in the State, Narvekar pointed to the chairs ahead of him in the House attributing major chunk of corruption from ‘allah’ (indicating towards Churchill Alemao’s PWD department) and ‘subhan allah’ (Vishwajeet Rane for Health). Both Alemao and Vishwajeet were not in their seats when Narvekar was speaking.

With the way things are going, Narvekar asserted, there is a need for an Accountability and Responsibility Bill.

BJP MLA Damu Naik said the Governor’s address, which was prepared giving a rosy picture of the State, had no mention of law and order problem, crimes against tourists, drug nexus, illegal mining, reduction in agriculture, uncontrolled prices, etc.

Naik said this Government will finish the State because corruption had exceeded its limits. PWD contractors are complaining they have to give 15 per cent commission or else nothing moves for them, he charged.

House brings in two Bills

Amendment) Bill, 2011 seeks to achieve is the insertion of a new sub-section (9) to section 3 of the Goa Value Added Tax Act, 2005 (Act 9 of 2005) so that those selling goods at exhibitions are liable to pay tax on taxable sales.

It seeks to substitute sub-section (6) of section 9 of the Act with a new sub-section to make provision relating to input tax credit more effective and also to allow the input tax credit on capital goods.

Jail, hefty penalty

imprisonment from three months to two years and fine from paltry Rs 5000 to Rs 1 lakh.

The ASI said it has also strengthened the watch and ward by deployment of additional private security guards at the vulnerable monuments as per the resources available.

Locals plan march

defence ministry’s proposal to acquire the islands.

Councillors Carlos Almeida, Sudesh Korgaonkar and Tara Kerkar have asked their supporters to join the movement to save the islands.

“I have taken the issue during the ‘calling attention motion’ during the present Assembly session. The islands are the livelihood of many fishermen, besides tourists’ destination”, said Godinho.

Godinho has urged the people of Goa to oppose defence ministry’s move to ensure that tourism interest of Goa is safeguarded.

“We had passed a resolution in September 2010 that the State Government should not allow the acquisition of islands.

We have also written to TCP and South Goa Collector conveying our strong opposition”, said Councillor Carlos Almeida.

Meanwhile, affected people from Khariwado will also take part in the protest rally to request the State Government to take appropriate measure to save their structures that have been facing the axe, as the Council has made it clear that the demolition would be carried on February 7.

OHERALDO

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WORLD

GOA, WEDNESDAY, 2 FEBRUARY, 2011

US issues global terror alert including India, Pak

Thousands march in Egypt seeking Mubarak’s ouster PTI CAIRO, FEB 1

Tens of thousands of Egyptians poured onto the streets of Cairo today for an unprecedented rally seeking ouster of Hosni Mubarak, hours after the powerful military showed signs of distancing itself from the besieged President vowing that it would not fire on the protesters.

In a desperate bid to cling to power, 82-yearold Mubarak offered to open “immediate talks” with opposition groups.

“President Hosni Mubarak has tasked me with opening immediate talks with the political forces to begin a dialogue around all the issues concerning constitutional and legislative reforms,” newly-appointed Vice President Omar Suleiman said on state television.

Suleiman also said the government would move to “deal as soon as possible with the priorities of fighting unemployment, poverty, corruption and reach the required balance between wages and prices.”

Notwithstanding the offer, protesters, including students, teachers, farmers and women in headscarves, filled the Tahrir (Liberation) Square — the hub of demonstrations against Mubarak’s 30year rule in the heart of Cairo – in response to a call for a million people to rally against the regime.

Two effigies of Mubarak dangled from traffic signals at the Square as protesters demanded that the “murderous” President should be put on trial.

Amid heavy presence of military and armoured vehicles on the streets in downtown Cairo, protesters waved placards reading ‘down with Mubarak’ and ‘Mubarak’s game is over’ in the largest demonstration yet in the 8-day uprising

that has claimed over 150 lives.

However, the UN Human Rights Commissioner, citing unconfirmed reports, said in Geneva that as many as 300 people may have been killed in the revolt.

Undeterred by the large number of gun-totting securitymen, the protesters, in a “festival-like” atmosphere, sang and chanted slogans against Mubarak, ‘Al-Jazeera’ reported.

Identity cards of protesters were scrutinised by the army personnel before letting them into the Square, where the demonstrators offered ‘namaz’.

Tens of thousands of anti-government protesters also converged in the Mediterranean port city of Alexandria, despite train services being cancelled and main roads closed by authorities in a bid to quell the protests.

Sensing strong public sentiments, the military made it clear that it would not crush the mass anti-government protests and said the protesters’ demands were “legitimate,” a sign that its support to Mubarak may be fading.

“To the great people of Egypt, your armed forces, acknowledging the legitimate rights of the people ... have not and will not use force against the Egyptian people,” the military said in a statement on state TV. “Your armed forces, who are aware of the legitimacy of your demands and are keen to assume their responsibility in protecting the nation and the citizens, affirms that freedom of expression through peaceful means is guaranteed to everybody,” it said.

Facing the first serious challenge to his rule, Mubarak had been hoping for the military backing to stem the tide against him.

Bangladesh jails 172 border guards PTI DHAKA, FEB 1

A special court today jailed 172 border guards in Bangladesh upto seven years of rigorous imprisonment for their involvement in 2009 mutiny in which 74 people were killed.

111 soldiers were convicted by a special court in the capital Dhaka and the rest 61 in north eastern S y l h e t , a B o rd e r G u a rd s Bangladesh (BGB) spokesman told PTI. The sentencing of the rebelling soldiers comes almost two years after the revolt in Pilkhana headquarters of the force.

The revolting personnel went on a killing spree of senior officers and their families and later dumped the bodies in sewers and shallow graves.

Of the 111 sentenced in the capital 43 were jailed for the highest term of seven years, 10

for six years and six months and nine for six years, one for four years and six months, five for four years and 16 for three years and six months. Six others were sentenced for three years and seven for two years.

A journalist who witnessed the proceedings in Dhaka today said 111 soldiers appeared in the court in plain clothes in hand cuffs instead of their uniforms under heavy security escorts while they were taken back to the jail as judge Colonel Habubul Islam pronounced the verdict.

The judge also considered the service records, personal behaviour and the service length of the accused while reviewing the charges against them on the basis of still and video pictures of the mutiny. The witnesses testimony other evidence in handing down the punishment.

PTI WASHINGTON, FEB 1

An Egyptian protester flashes the “V” for victory sign as he joins thousands of demonstrators in Cairo's Tahrir Square heeding a call by the opposition for a "march of a million" to mark a week of protests calling for the ouster of Hosni Mubarak's long term regime, on Tuesday.

NRI family working to connect classrooms globally PTI WASHINGTON, FEB 1

Harnessing the potential of internet, an Indian-American family has embarked on an ambitious project of connecting classrooms across the world to bring in virtual real time interaction among school students.

The aim of the Washingtonbased international initiative is to help students learn not only about culture of other countries, but also find solutions to complex math equations and science problems.

A brainchild of mother-daughter duo of Sonia Boveja and Naina, co-founders of Coalition for International Initiatives (CII), the pilot project launched recently connects eight American schools in the Pennsylvania area with three Indian schools in Gwalior, Ahmedabad and Ludhiana.

“We want to promote cultural

awareness, global citizenship and academic excellence. So we want the students to share with each other academic things, their sports, and their history.

We are hoping that we can also have math and science to be part of it,” Naina said.

“Collaborative learning has become our first project. We want to bridge the achievement gap with new methodologies and cutting edge technology,” she said. Bovejas were recently in India touring the country as part of their efforts to identify schools for this ambitious project.

“The idea is that classrooms from India and classrooms from the US will be connected with each other through the portal,” said Naina, who along with Sonia founded the CII last year with the goal of working in the spheres of education, art and environment.

The US today issued a global travel alert, including on visiting India and Pakistan, for its citizens in view of the increasing threat from terrorist organisations like alQaeda and the Taliban.

In its latest travel alert titled “worldwide caution”, the State Department expressed concern over continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations and other violent actions against US citizens and interests overseas including India and Pakistan.

“In India, there is a continuing threat of terrorism as attacks have randomly targeted public places frequented by Westerners, including luxury and other hotels, trains, train stations, markets, cinemas, mosques, and restaurants in large urban areas,” the travel alert said.

“Examples of potential attacks in South Asian states include Pakistan, where a number of extremist groups continue to target US and other Western citizens and interests, and Pakistani government officials and military/law enforcement personnel,” it said.

“Suicide bombing attacks continue to occur throughout the country on a regular basis, often targeting government authorities such as police checkpoints and military installations, as well as public areas such as mosques, and

n In its latest travel alert titled “worldwide caution”, the State Department expressed concern over continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations and other violent actions against US citizens and interests overseas including India and Pakistan. shopping areas,” the alert said.

The State Department said that current information suggests that al-Qaeda and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks against US interests in multiple regions, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics including suicide operations, assassina-

tions, kidnappings, hijackings, and bombings.

“Extremists may elect to use conventional or non-conventional weapons, and target both official and private interests. Examples of such targets include high-profile sporting events, residential areas, business offices, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, public areas, and locales where US citizens gather in large numbers, including during holidays,” it said.

US citizens are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure.

Extremists have targeted and attacked subway and rail systems, as well as aviation and maritime services. In the past several years, these types of attacks have occurred in cities such as Moscow, London, Madrid, and Glasgow, the alert said.

“Current information suggests that al-Qaeda and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks against US and Western interests in Europe. European governments have taken action to guard against terrorist attack and some have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions. In the past several years, attacks have been planned or occurred in various European cities,” it said.

Pg 12:Pg12 2/1/2011 10:22 PM Page 1

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Pg 12 Ambani told to deposit 50% Eurozone jobless of increased spectrum usage % of the active PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 1

The Supreme Court has directed two Anil Ambani group firms Reliance Communications and Reliance Telecom to deposit 50 per cent of the increased spectrum usage charge demanded by DoT and to submit a bank guarantee for the rest within two weeks.

A three-judge bench headed

by Chief Justice S H Kapadia also issued notice to DoT directing it to file reply over enhancing spectrum usage charge.

"The Operator - Reliance Communications Ltd will deposit fifty per cent of the outstanding principal amount net of interest in the Supreme Court Registry within a period of two weeks," said the bench, which also consisted Justices K S Radhakrishnan and Swatanter Kumar.

It further said, "The balance fifty per cent of disputed outstanding amount net of interest will be secured by way of Bank guarantee of a Nation-

alised Bank to be given within a period of two weeks".

The apex court has directed to tag the Rcom and R Tel's appeal with the other telecom operators -- Vodafone, Bharti Airtel, Bharti Hexacom (operating in Rajasthan), Idea Cellular and Uninor -- which have challenged DoT's increasing the usage charges 3-8 per cent of adjusted gross revenue, depending on quantum of spectrum held by an operator.

It has also asked Managing Director of the two firms to "give an affidavit to the effect

Dismissing concerns of India facing a governance deficit, Prakash P Hinduja, Chairman, Advisory Board of Hinduja Bank, Switzerland, today said that the Indian economy continues to enjoy confidence of global investors.

On the issue of "governance deficit" raised by some noted Indian industry leaders and eminent citizens, Hinduja said, "It is not going to affect India. It (Indian economy) will continue to grow".

He is here as member of a FICCI delegation, led by Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma.

Hinduja said investors were comparing India with China.

"There is a great future in India. People across the world are comparing India with China and they see more advantage in India because of large English-speaking people," he said.

Hinduja who came here after attending the World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting at Davos, said, "investors feel comfortable in India."

Many US companies, which have set up hubs in Bangalore have had first-hand experience.

Well-known industrialists, bankers and eminent citizens had recently raised concern over the "governance deficit" in New Delhi after several scams including 2G telecom spectrum had hit the UPA Government.

However, Hinduja, who is a senior member of the USD 25 billion UK-based group, remained bullish on the India story. The Indian economy is expected to expand by about 8.5-8.9 per cent in the current fiscal.

that, in the event of Civil Appeal being dismissed, it will pay the balance amount with interest".

Besides, it has directed RCom to file a chart of the principal amount, which is outstanding before the registry of the Supreme Court within one week.

The court also warned, "We make it clear that if there is a breach of any of the aforestated conditions, the impugned order will come into force with immediate effect".

The ADAG group firms are challenging the order of the sectoral tribunal TDSAT, which had declined to stay DoT's hike in the spectrum usage charge.

The DoT had asked the two ADAG group firms to deposit Rs 94 crore for the spectrum charges as per the new rules.

On October 22, the Supreme Court had stayed the TDSAT order upholding a hike in 2G telecom spectrum (radio waves) usage charges, but had asked Bharti, Vodafone and Idea to deposit with it 50 per cent of the proposed increase in fee with court's registry.

population

PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 1

Though the government stopped subsidised sale of onions in the national capital from today with the softening of the kitchen staple prices, it said it is not in a hurry to lift ban on export of the veggie.

"Though the price of the onion has eased...but we have not reached the stage to restart export of the vegetable... we are not in any hurry," Food minister K V Thomas told PTI. With soaring of rates of onions that created hue and cry across the country, the government had first decided to suspend export of the vegetable till midJanuary, but later clamped an indefinite ban.

The minister of state with Inde-

pendent charge for Food and Consumer Affairs said there was no need now for further contracting onion from other countries.

"Only previous contracted onions are imported now...there is no no need for further shipment of the vegetable as the domestic supply of the crop has increased now," the minister said.

At the height of onion crisis around December 20-21 when the price of the bulb had

9.9

10

9

The profitability of the Indian steel producers will decline by 4-5 per cent in April-June as the coking coal, a key input in steel manufacturing, has gone up by USD 40-50 per tonne due to devastating floods in Queensland in Australia, according to a study.

According to a study by research and rating firm Crisil, the operating margins of the steel makers will decline in the April-June period as the floods will affect the import of coking coal.

"Coking coal accounts for about 45 per cent of the raw material costs of non-inte-

Sensex tanks over 300 pts PTI MUMBAI, FEB 1

After recording its worst monthly show in January in two years, the BSE benchmark Sensex today tanked another 305 points to close at 5-month low of 18,022.22 on heavy fund outflows over concerns that rising input costs, inflation and hike in interest rates will trim corporate earnings.

The selling pressure also gathered momentum on investor worries that unrest in Egypt could spread to other parts of the Middle East and make foreign funds more cautious. The Bombay Stock Exchange benchmark Sensex, which had lost 825 points in last four trading sessions, fell further by 305.54 points to 18,022.22, a level last seen on August 30.

grated steel producers in India.

The run in coking coal prices will affect the margins of these producers, who are already vulnerable to an expected increase in iron ore prices over the next quarter," Crisil's Head (Research), Manoj Mohta, said in a statement. Queensland, which is badly hit by the recent flash floods, accounts for 40-45 per cent of the world's exports of coking coal.

The disruptions in supply because of the floods have driven coking coal spot prices up by USD40-50 per tonne to USD 280-290 per tonne, the report stated.

These higher prices will Aban Offshor, 671, 684.9, 661.2, 666.5 Abb Ltd., 740, 752, 710.5, 715.6 Abg Shipyard, 351.5, 353.2, 335.4, 336.9 Acc Limited, 992, 998.2, 970, 976.95 Adani Enterp, 565, 579.25, 544.65, 565.9 Aditya Birla, 752, 779, 740.35, 749.35 Allahabad Ba, 203.5, 208.65, 197.5, 199.15 Alstom Proje, 584, 598.1, 571, 578.65 Ambuja Cemen, 126.55, 129.95, 120.1, 121.15 Andhra Bank, 141, 144.7, 136.1, 137.1 Ashok Leylan, 59.4, 59.9, 55.3, 56 Asian Paints, 2574.95, 2580.05, 2445, 2487.9 Axis Bank Li, 1253.65, 1257.65, 1234, 1242.65 Bajaj Hindus, 82.15, 84, 80.4, 80.7 Bank Of Baro, 875, 877.9, 848, 855.25 Bank Of Indi, 442, 445.6, 435.45, 438.3 Beml Limited, 856, 878.75, 817.4, 829.3 Bharat Elect, 1738.6, 1767, 1709.9, 1726.85 Bharat Forge, 343, 345.95, 334.05, 339.25 Bharat Petro, 604.85, 633, 576.05, 580.5 Bharti Airte, 325, 327.85, 310, 317.1 Bhel, 2233, 2238, 2166.4, 2197.9 Bhushan Stee, 398.95, 403, 388.6, 391.2 Biocon Limit, 352.95, 352.95, 338.7, 340.75 Bombay Dyein, 389.15, 396.75, 376.65, 379.45

Flight from Cairo: Passengers complain of exorbitant AI fares PTI MUMBAI, FEB 1

Several Indian passengers who were flown home from strifehit Cairo on two Air India (AI) flights have complained that the airline charged fares as high as Rs 43,000 for a single ticket to Mumbai.

The flag carrier had operated two flights as a special measure to airlift Indian citizens who were caught in the violent unrest in Egypt but some stranded fliers alleged that they had to shell out almost more than double the cost of a single ticket from Cairo to Mumbai.

"The airline has charged fares as high as USD 980 (Rs 43,000). No doubt they have done a good job by rescuing us from the chaos in Cairo, but charging such exorbitant fares in such a situation is not at all justified," said a passenger, who landed at the Mumbai in-

D J F M A M J J A S O N D 2010

09 Source: Eurostat

peaked to Rs 70-85 a kg in the national capital, the government as a crisis-management steps had ordered for import of the veggie to boost domestic availability.

Accordingly, state-run agencies PEC and STC had contracted 1,000 tonnes of onions from Pakistan in the first week of January.

The onions from the neighbouring country landed at Mundra port in Gujarat in phases from where it was ferried to Delhi by roads.

With softening of prices of onions to Rs 25-30/kg, the government yesterday decided to discontinue subsidised sale of the essential commodity through cooperatives like Mother Dairy, Nafed, NCCF and Kendriya Bhandar.

flow through into the operating margins of India's nonintegrated steel producers, who import their entire requirement of coking coal for the April-June quarter.

Integrated steelmakers, who constitute 25-30 per cent of India's steelmaking capacity, will be shielded from these increases as they source all of their iron ore, and a large part of their coking coal, from captive mines, the report said.

The effect of rising coking coal prices will make itself felt starting April, when steel players enter into new contracts with mining companies.

Bosch Limite, 6062, 6063, 5960, 6006.3 Brigade Ente, 93, 94.75, 91.5, 92.05 Cairn India, 334, 334.95, 325.6, 327 Canara Bank, 605, 612.8, 586.65, 593.75 Central Bank, 172.6, 190, 167.65, 169 Century Text, 331, 336.3, 314.55, 318.85 Cesc Ltd, 305.1, 310.8, 296.25, 299.6 Chambal Fert, 71.5, 72.85, 71, 71.35 Chennai Petr, 213.95, 215.5, 208.25, 211 Cipla Ltd, 332.5, 334.6, 327.25, 329 Colgate Palm, 810, 821.1, 797.1, 804.35 Container Co, 1227, 1227, 1166, 1178.95 Crompton Gre, 279, 281, 270, 274.2 Cummins Indi, 736, 742, 695.1, 699.6 Dabur India, 98.9, 98.9, 91.85, 93.15 Deccan Chron, 90, 92.15, 85.7, 88.25 Dish Tv Indi, 59.5, 60.4, 55.4, 56.1 Divi’s Labor, 639.95, 644.9, 620, 623.35 Dlf Limited, 226.1, 229.45, 219.6, 221.55 Dr. reddy’s, 1632, 1639.5, 1579, 1609.35 Edelweiss Ca, 39.2, 41.05, 38.5, 38.85 Educomp Solu, 476, 482.8, 457, 461.2 Eih Limited, 105.3, 106.7, 97.6, 99.2 Engineers In, 285, 286, 279.05, 281.95 Essar Oil Lt, 122, 122.9, 117.6, 118.45

Maruti sales up 14.7 pc in January UNI NEW DELHI, FEB 1

Country's largest car maker Maruti Suzuki India Ltd today reported a growth of 14.7 per cent in sales at 1,09,743 vehicles in January as compared to 95,649 vehicles in the same month last year.

In January 2011, sales were up 23.8 per cent in A2 segment, comprising Alto, WagonR, Zen, Swift, A-Star and Ritz; and 32.6 per cent in A3 segment, comprising SX4 and D'zire.

However, the sales of M800 declined 24.8 per cent at 1,876 units in January 2011 as compared to 2,494 units in the same month previous year.

Allahabad bank hikes interest rates

Australia floods to hurt Indian steelmakers PTI MUMBAI, FEB 1

10

10.1

‘Govt not in hurry to resume onion export’

Hinduja bullish on India growth story PTI ROME, FEB 1

BIZ

GOA, WEDNESDAY, 2 FEBRUARY, 2011

UNI LUCKNOW, FEB 1

Public sector Allahabad Bank from today has increased in lending and deposit interest rates.

According to an official statement here the bank has increased its Base Rate (BR) by 50 basis points from 9 per cent to 9.50 per cent per annum, Benchmark Prime Lending Rate (BPLR) by 25 basis points from 13.25 per cent per annum to 13.50 per cent per annum and Interest Rate on domestic Term Deposits for fixed 400 days from 8 per cent to 8.50 pervent in view of the changes in the interest rate scenario.

The Interest Rate on Term Deposits is applicable on fresh deposits below Rs one crore.

Essar Shippi, 100, 100.1, 97, 97.35 Exide Indust, 129.6, 129.6, 124.5, 124.85 Federal Bank, 365.55, 372, 357.6, 362.5 Financial Te, 716.9, 733, 710.05, 715.2 Gail (india), 472, 474.7, 456, 462.25 Gammon India, 140.15, 145, 137, 142.4 Glaxosmithkl, 2310, 2310, 2255, 2265 Glenmark Pha, 308.5, 314.9, 296.5, 300.35 Gmr Infrastr, 39.4, 39.9, 38.05, 38.6 Godrej Indus, 173.9, 174, 165.5, 167.15 Grasim Indus, 2288.35, 2301.7, 2245.15, 2258.25 Great Offsho, 302, 308, 295.15, 297.85 Gtl Infra.Lt, 40.5, 40.85, 39.95, 40.35 Gujarat Mine, 122.4, 122.5, 117.3, 118.65 Gujarat N R, 58.5, 58.7, 56.5, 56.85 Gujarat Stat, 103.1, 103.6, 100.45, 102 Gvk Pow. & I, 33.25, 33.25, 29.85, 30.15 Hcl Technolo, 494.4, 495.5, 481.6, 484.55 Hdfc Bank Lt, 2076.9, 2076.9, 2015.1, 2039.6 Hdfc Ltd, 633.45, 648.35, 629.6, 633.25 Hero Honda M, 1665, 1668, 1591.15, 1610.35 Hindalco in, 230.5, 233.75, 227.7, 229.9 Hindustan Co, 36.95, 37.65, 35.9, 36.1 Hindustan Ma, 62.9, 64.4, 61.1, 61.65 Hindustan Pe, 358, 358, 342.1, 345.55

ternational airport this morning.

Some of the fliers alleged that the airline did not realise the gravity of the situation and demanded payment only in cash to book a flight ticket.

"They were taking only those people, who were able to pay in cash. They were also not accepting payment either by debit or credit card. Due to this reason, a lot of students, who are not in a position to pay are still stuck in Cairo," another passenger, who reached Mumbai, said. However, Air India denied that it had over-charged passengers and said these were normal return fares.

"We operated an empty aircraft from Mumbai yesterday to ferry these passengers by pulling out the plane from a scheduled service," an Air India official said.

A one-way ticket costs around Rs 20,000 at least in

this sector, said a travel agent here.

Meanwhile, Air India flight AI 800 landed at the Chhatrapati Shivaji International airport at around 6 am with 219 passengers from the troubled nation on board.

Yesterday, a batch of around 300 Indians, stuck in the African country landed here safely, much to the relief of anxiously waiting relatives in the city, who were happy for their luck kins who escaped the tumult that has hit Egypt over the demand for the ouster of President Hosni Mubarak.

Most passengers, who arrived in the first batch in Boeing 747-800 last afternoon were from TATA Steel, which organised a three-day conference in Cairo.

Nearly 550 Indians, including tourists, have been transported back from Egypt till now.

AMD unveils Fusion Platform, eyes deeper market penetration PTI BANGALORE, FEB 1

Leading global semiconductor firm AMD today said it hoped to penetrate deeper into the Indian market with launch of AMD Fusion platform, aimed at enabling developers create futuristic, visually rich applications with no-compromise performance even on small form factor devices.

The new 'Fusion' processors incorporate a graphics card (GPU) and microprocessor (CPU) on a single chip, allowing computer-makers develop new form factors for devices.

Announcing launch of the AMD Fusion Family of Accelerated Processor Units (APUs), Ravi Swaminathan, MD and Regional Vice President, Sales and Marketing, AMD India, said this would usher in the "third era of computing" and was one of the "biggest shift in PC technology" since the X86 processors were first invented.

"We feel AMD is today under penetrated in India", he said

adding that the company expected to enhance its current market share of around 15 per cent through the launch of the Fusion family. He, however, refuse to quantify the target share.

The AMD Fusion APU which combines the multi-core CPU (x86) technology with powerful DirectX 11-capabilities and parallel processing engine, allows to build the small-form factor, long-battery-life PCs consumers crave, while enabling the powerful, next-generation visual experiences that help create a competitive advantage in a hyper-competitive market.

APU also includes a dedication high-definition video accelerated block and a high speed bus that speeds data across differing types of processor cores within the same design. A 90 member team from AMD's R and D in Hyderabad played a significant role in the design and development of the microprocessors,

Fusion system on chips, graphics and media solution of the chip, the company said.

Over 11 AMD Fusion-based systems will be launched in India in the first half of 2011 by leading manufacturers, including Sony, HP, Dell, Lenovo, ASUS, MSI and Toshiba,who will deliver AMD Fusion-based systems at very compelling value and mainstream price points.

"AMD Fusion will eliminate the need for consumers to choose between power and performance, enabling exciting experiences at price points that offer tremendous value.

This will also allow our partners to offer exciting new form factors on a robust computing platform", he said.

"It marks a monumental shift in computing performance experience and possibilities because of the powerful combination of CPUs and discrete-level GPUs", he said.

Dec exports highest in 33 months PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 1

India's exports rose 36.4 per cent to USD 22.5 billion in December 2010 on an annual basis, the highest in 33 months, on back of increased demand in the US and EU, raising hopes of exceeding this fiscal's target of USD 200 billion.

The country's merchandise exports in December 2009 had stood at USD 16.4 billion.

However, imports during the month contracted by 11.1 per cent to USD 25.13 billion over the same period last year, resulting in narrowing of trade deficit by USD 2.6 billion, Commerce Ministry data released today said.

Hindustan Un, 271.15, 274, 267, 269.65 Hindustan Zi, 1255.95, 1273.9, 1232, 1239.95 Housing Dev, 132, 134.65, 124.25, 125.25 Icici Bank L, 1019.1, 1020, 990, 994.8 Idea Cellula, 70.05, 70.05, 65.6, 66.6 Ifci Ltd, 53.8, 53.8, 51.1, 51.4 India Cement, 100, 100, 90.3, 92.35 India Infoli, 76.5, 78.9, 75.5, 78 Indiabulls F, 156.7, 159.95, 153, 155.5 Indiabulls R, 120.5, 122.25, 115.25, 116.1 Indian Bank, 216.8, 216.8, 207.35, 208.95 Indian Hotel, 89.95, 93.5, 88.2, 91.2 Indian Oil C, 336, 336, 321.6, 324.8 Indian Overs, 128.4, 131.5, 125.6, 127.45 Indus Dev Ba, 142.5, 143.2, 137.3, 138.2 Indusind Ban, 225.55, 225.7, 216.6, 218.65 Infosys Tech, 3126.3, 3128.4, 3043.1, 3089.2 Infra. dev., 147.6, 149.15, 142.05, 143.2 Ispat Indust, 24.6, 25.2, 24, 24.15 Itc Ltd, 163.65, 163.8, 156.2, 159.6 Ivrcl Infras, 81.15, 82.3, 75.6, 76.65 Jai Corp Lim, 174, 174.8, 168.05, 168.95 Jaiprakash A, 84, 84.1, 79, 79.7 Jet Airways, 552, 553.5, 503.7, 512.5 Jindal Saw L, 209, 213.4, 206.15, 209.55

During April-December period of the current fiscal, the outbound shipment grew by 29.5 per cent to USD 164.7 billion from USD 127.1 billion year-on-year. "The US and EU markets have been doing pretty good," Commerce Secretary Rahul Khullar had said recently.

In its monetary policy review, the RBI had said global growth prospects have improved in recent weeks.

The recovery in major advanced economies which had weakened during second quarter of 2010, regained strength in the following quarter.

Corporate capital spending and retail sales in the US are

Jindal Steel, 670, 671, 628.15, 635.3 Jsw Steel Li, 906.9, 927, 892, 899.35 Kotak Mahind, 385.75, 393.35, 374, 376.75 Lakshmi Mach, 2182, 2185, 2121, 2134.1 Lanco Infrat, 50.1, 51, 48.5, 49.05 Larsen & Tou, 1650, 1662.4, 1567.25, 1578.5 Lic Housing, 182, 183.45, 173.3, 175.65 Lupin Limite, 423.95, 427.2, 404.2, 411.55 Mahanagar Te, 48.25, 48.55, 46.05, 46.25 Mahindra & M, 716, 718, 697.15, 705.8 Maruti Suzuk, 1266, 1275, 1233.6, 1242.4 Max India Lt, 143.1, 149, 141, 146.15 Maytas Infr., 175, 183.5, 174, 180.35 Moser-baer (, 52, 53.2, 50.5, 50.9 Mrpl, 66.55, 68.1, 65.75, 66.2 Nagarjuna Co, 113.5, 113.5, 107.75, 109.4 Nagarjuna Fe, 28.25, 28.65, 27.15, 27.3 National Alu, 405.1, 418, 398.55, 402.8 Neyveli Lign, 108.25, 108.55, 101, 101.75 Ntpc Ltd, 189.25, 190.75, 184.7, 185.25 Oil And Natu, 1191, 1198.45, 1171.75, 1176.75 Omaxe Limite, 130, 135.85, 130, 133.85 Oriental Ban, 330.5, 339.5, 326.5, 332.45 Pantaloon Re, 290, 291.95, 282.05, 284.4 Parsvnath De, 47.65, 48, 40.9, 43.45

showing improvement. The US and EU are India's traditional markets and account for more than one third of its shipments.

The "remarkable job by exports" was also attributed to diversification of India's export markets. For instance, 112 per cent rise in engineering exports was helped to a great extent by orders from Latin American countries like Columbia, a commerce department official said.

The trade deficit during April-December stood at USD 82 billion, marginally higher than USD 80.13 billion in the corresponding period last fiscal. The government had set an export target of USD 200 billion for 2010-11.

Petronet Lng, 130.1, 131, 125.05, 125.5 Power Fin Co, 245.5, 250, 244, 245.95 Power Grid C, 97, 97.6, 95.5, 95.65 Praj Industr, 74.55, 76.25, 72.8, 73.25 Punj Lloyd L, 94.95, 95.5, 89.75, 90.5 Punjab Natio, 1111, 1139, 1091, 1101 Rajesh Expor, 135, 135, 128.25, 130.45 Ranbaxy Labs, 547, 548, 530.55, 535.3 Rashtriya Ch, 79.3, 81.75, 78.9, 80.35 Reliance Cap, 526, 528.65, 497.6, 501.5 Reliance Com, 124.05, 125.05, 117.2, 118.5 Reliance Ene, 1043.01, 1081, 1043.01, 1045.57 Reliance Ind, 575, 577, 559.7, 562.05 Reliance Ind, 925.1, 927.7, 888.55, 895.5 Reliance Pow, 136, 136.6, 130, 130.5 Rolta India, 136, 139.4, 136, 137.05 Satyam Compu, 60.2, 62.45, 58.6, 58.95 Sesa Goa Ltd, 329.6, 333.4, 322.15, 323.25 Shipping Cor, 114, 115.4, 111.6, 112.35 Siemens Ltd, 862.8, 862.8, 845.55, 848.3 Sintex Indus, 143.1, 145.8, 140.35, 141.65 Sobha Develo, 263.5, 264.45, 252.25, 257.15 State Bank O, 2652.6, 2660, 2585.2, 2594.05 Steel Author, 161.5, 162.9, 157.4, 160.8 Sterlite Ind, 165.5, 167.3, 163.05, 165 Sun Pharmace, 445.7, 445.7, 422.3, 433.1

Sun Tv Netwo, 491.1, 501.95, 487.95, 494.55 Suzlon Energ, 49.75, 49.85, 47.2, 47.55 Tata Communi, 231, 231, 222, 226.25 Tata Consult, 1165, 1165, 1133, 1150.15 Tata Motors, 1151.45, 1151.45, 1063, 1069.05 Tata Power C, 1247, 1249.85, 1206.35, 1231.8 Tata Steel L, 637.45, 642.8, 627.1, 631.75 Tata Teleser, 17.25, 17.5, 16.7, 16.8 Tech Mahindr, 651, 655, 630.05, 634.25 The Ge Shpg., 308, 310, 293, 294.35 The Phoenix, 204.2, 204.2, 196, 198.75 Thermax Ltd, 678, 685.05, 669, 670.35 Titan Indust, 3611, 3662.4, 3575, 3597.2 Torrent Powe, 229.3, 229.3, 224, 226.95 Triveni Engg, 93, 93.7, 91.3, 92.7 Tv18 India L, 75.25, 77.9, 75.05, 75.55 Uco Bank, 108, 109.4, 105.05, 105.6 Ultratech Ce, 1014, 1018.9, 992, 996.1 Union Bank O, 333.6, 333.75, 322.1, 325.25 Unitech Ltd, 49, 49, 42.35, 43.05 United Phosp, 136.55, 139.8, 135.45, 136.6 Videocon Ind, 207, 209.8, 203.05, 205.2 Vijaya Bank, 91, 91.45, 89.15, 89.7 Voltas Ltd, 194, 194.25, 185.1, 187.2 Wipro Ltd, 438.6, 444, 423, 429.35 Yes Bank Lim, 264.7, 267.85, 260.45, 264.7 Zee Entertai, 114.85, 116.75, 107.65, 111.9

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BIZ

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GOA, WEDNESDAY, 2 FEBRUARY, 2011

India tops in consumer confidence levels UNI BANGALORE, FEB 1

Defying global sentiments the confidence level of Indian consumers went up by two points to touch 131, according to the latest editionofNielsenGlobalConsumerConfidence Index.

The Index, which tracks consumer confidence, major concerns and spending intentions among online consumers, saw the Philippines at a distant second from India with 120 index points followed by Norway with 119 index points.

Globally, confidence levels fell in 25 out of 52 countries surveyed in the fourth quarter of 2010 as hope for a global economic recovery evaporated at the end of last year. According to the survey, which polled over 29,000 Internet consumers across the globe in November 2010, confidence levels fell in half of the countries surveyed as widespread concern for unemployment, job cre-

ation, rising food and utility costs eradicated any expectation of sustained economic recovery.

The global consumer confidence index at the end of 2010 remained unchanged from the previous quarter at 90 and finished the year two index points below the start of the year.

“India has topped the Consumer Confidence survey in all four quarters of 2010 and has also seen a steady rise in index points. This is a good sign for us as this means that the economy is fast moving out of the slowdown. But global economic conditions have made Indians wary about the future and they are exercising some restraint in their spending habits,” said Justin Sargent, Managing Director (Consumer), India, The Nielsen Company.

The report said three out of ten Indians think that the country is in an economic recession.

However, the percentage of In-

dians who think that the country is presently in recession has gone down by three per cent to 30 when compared to the last leg of the survey. Out of those who think that India is in recession, 55 per cent believed that the country will be out of recession in the next 12 months, which again indicated an overall positive consumer outlook for the economy.

Globally, India ranks first as a country that believes that they will be out of the economic recession in the next 12 months.

Increasing confidence levels in the country's economy translates into optimism for Indians, at least when it comes to their job prospects in the next 12 months.

Indians are globally the most optimistic on this count. Nine out of ten Indians (90 per cent) were optimistic about their job prospects in the next 12 months.

Budget: Govt may hike tax exemption limit

PTI NEW DELHI, FEB 1

Tax payers can expect some relief from high inflation in Budget 2011-12 as the government may raise the income tax exemption limit for individuals.

"Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee is alive to the price situation and its impact on the common man," sources said, adding he would favourably consider the issue of hiking tax exemption limit.

Moreover, they said, as the government is committed to raise the income tax exemption limit from Rs 1.6 lakh per annum to Rs 2 lakh in line with the Direct Taxes Code (DTC) in 2012-13, tax payers could expect at least some relief in the upcoming Budget on February 28.

"The finance ministry would keep in mind the high inflation in the Budget. Since there is no dearness allowance for a vast section of the society, hike in income tax exemption limit is likely," a source told PTI.

Gold bounces higher REUTERS SINGAPORE, FEB 1

A woman passes by an empty bus station in front of the Greek Parliament on Tuesday during the 48-hours bus employees strike. Metro staff, bus and troley bus employees staged new strike to protest a government plan to restructure the debt-ridden public transpor t sector.The government bill to streamline the debt-ridden public transport sector is part of emergency measures to slash state deficits that nearly bankrupted the Greek economy last year.

Qatar Airways planning new destinations in India Qatar Airways is planning to expand its network to India by reaching out to new destinations in the country in a bid to boost its share in the lucrative aviation market.

"We are planning to operate in two new destinations in India. India is a great country and has strong cultural, political and economic relation with

spreads across 11 Indian cities – in addition to Bengaluru, daily flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Cochin, Trivandrum, Kozhikode, Ahmedabad and Goa, with four services-a-week to Amritsar.

He said there are many air traffic rights under the bilateral air service agreement between India and Qatar, which the airline hasn't utilised.

"We expand in a planned

my country," Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker told PTI here.

Already covering 11 cities in India, the airline is mulling on spreading its wings further.

Not specifying which all countries are in the pipeline, Baker said, "Its important for Qatar to look at India. We have many plans in India, which I will not disclose as I love giving surprises."

With no immediate plans to expand the capacity of the aircrafts used by the airlines in India, he said, "As of now we are not planning to increase the capacity of the aircrafts. We haven't yet maximised the capacity."

Qatar Airways currently

way. We will not dump any rights or the capacity just for the sake of it. We still have room to expand," he said.

Speaking about the under construction airport...New Doha International Airport, he said, "It is the most efficient and most user friendly airport.

The airport will be complete by 2012."

The national airline for the state of Qatar spans its network to six continents, with a fleet of 94 aircrafts.

Addressing a press conference here, a day after the launch of the inaugural flight from Doha to Brussels, Baker said, "Till 2020, almost twothirds of our fleet will be replaced by A 350s."

PTI BRUSSELS, FEB 1

Sony banking on WC to boost sales m e d i a c o n f e re n c e t o d a y to launch Dhoni as its brand ambassador.

Tamagawa said that cricket being India's most popular sport, his company was looking at the game's showpiece event to boost its sales by 40 per cent.

PTI MUMBAI, FEB 1

Sony India is looking ahead to the February 19-April 2 World Cup to boost sales of High Definition flat panel TV sets and has roped in Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni for its promotion. " C r i c ke t i s t h e b i g g e s t sport in India. Dhoni and Sony a re a perfect m a t c h , " M a n a g i n g D i re c tor of Sony India Masaru Ta m a g a w a s a i d a t a

About the order of A380s by the airline, Baker said, "We have high load factors. We were supposed to receive the orders of A380s by 2009. We have, however delayed it because of the NDIA work going on."

The Brussels Doha route launch established Qatar Airways' 98th international destination and marked the Gulf carrier's third new Europena route. It has been operating flights to both Bucharest and Budapest from its Doha hub in January.

Gold regained strength on Tuesday, reversing the previous session's losses, and a rise in ETF holdings for the first time in a week suggested some investors still had faith in the precious metal despite the improving tone of US economic data.

Strong oil prices and a deadly unrest in Egypt could underpin sentiment, but trading slowed down in Asia ahead of the Lunar New Year celebration later this week. Bullion posted its first monthly decline in six months in January.

Spot gold added $6.80 to $1,338.70 an ounce by 0710 GMT after falling to as low as 1,322.90 on Monday. Gold struck a record around $1,430 in December on worries the euro debt crisis would spread and uncertainty in the U.S. economy.

Presently, income up to Rs 1.6 lakh is exempt from tax for individuals. For women and senior citizens, the limit is 1.9 lakh and 2.4 lakh, respectively.

However, under the the DTC Bill which was introduced in Parliament last year, the I-T exemption limit is of 2 lakh.

In the DTC bill, the government seeks to widen tax slabs to levy 10 per cent rate on income between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 5 lakh, 20 per cent on Rs 5-10 lakh and 30 per cent above Rs 10 lakh.

The DTC, which would replace the Income Tax Act, is slated to come into effect from April next year. "Since inflation

is eating into the income of the people, some of DTC provisions can be implemented to benefit the common man," the official added.

Inflation, particularly the food inflation, has been a concern for both the government and the common man. For past few months, food prices have been staying at very high levels.

The wholesale price food inflation rose to 15.57 per cent for the period ended January 15, on escalating vegetable prices, particularly, onions. It was at 15.52 per cent for the week ended January 8.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (A Govt. of India Undertaking) TENDER FOR TRANSPORTATION OF BPCL PKD LPG CYLINDERS EX-BPCL GOA (VERNA) LPG BOTTLING PLANT Tender No. BPCL / LPG / PKD / WR / 2011 / 02 / GOA CLOSING DATE / TIME : 18/02/2011 at 1100 hrs.

BPCL invites sealed offers for transportation of BPCL Packed LPG Cylinders from and to BPCL GOA (Verna) LPG PLANT. Detailed notice, terms and other particulars of the tender will be available at the following address on any working day between 1000 Hrs. to 1730 Hrs. from 01/02/2011 to 17/02/2011 upon payment of Rs. 2500/- (non-refundable) by way of Demand Draft drawn on any Nationalized / Scheduled Bank in favour of ‘Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd.’ payable at Mumbai Territory Manager (LPG), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd., Goa LPG Territory Office & Bottling Plant, M-19 to M35, Phase 3B, Verna Industrial Estate, Salcette, Dist. South Goa, Goa - 403 722.

The tender documents are also available on our website www.bharatpetroleum.in The same can be downloaded and submitted along with a DD of Rs.2500/(Non-refundable). Sealed offer complete in all respects will have to be submitted on or before 18/02/2011 by 1100 hrs. at above address.

Raj Oil Mills aims to increase market share PTI MUMBAI, FEB 1

Raj Oil Mills today said it aims to increase its market share in hair oil market from the present 8 per cent.

"We are aiming to increase

our market share from the present 8 per cent and plan to be among the top three competitors in the coconut oil segment," Raj Oil Chairman and Managing Director Arif Tharadra told reporters here.

Pg 14

SPORTS

GOA, Wednesday, 2 February, 2011

Infant Jesus, Presentation top HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, FEB 1

Infant Jesus HS, Cuncolim and Presentation Convent High School, Margao, emerged champs in U-17 boys and girls categories respectively in S Goa District inter-school volleyball at SAG court, Fatorda on Tuesday.

In the boys finals, Salcete winners Infant Jesus scored a straight hard fought 25-21, 1425, 25-20, 25-14 win over Quepem Taluka winners New Educational Institute, Curchorem.

In the girls finals, Presentation scored a straight set 25-15, 25-12, 25-10 win over St Andrew’s, Vasco.

Big time tennis cricket at Cuncolim HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, FEB 1

Youth of Cuncolim will organise their 2nd edition Cuncolim Premier League five overs 9-a-side tennis ball cricket tournament in memory of Eslinda Alemao at Kaita ground, near Kadamba bus stand, Cuncolim from February 12 to 13.

The 2-day tournament will feature top teams from Goa including Cuncolim.

After successfully organising the first edition last year, Youth of Cuncolim are all set to give cricket fans more action. The champions will get Rs 30,000

and a trophy while the runnersup will pocket Rs 20,000 and a trophy. Individual prizes for best player, best bowler, man-of-thematch and man-of-the-series will be awarded. The losing semi-finalists will receive Rs 5,000 each.

Devendra Dessai, Chairperson of Cuncolim Municipal Council and president of Youth of Cuncolim disclosed that the tournament will definitely generate a lot of excitement and enthusiasm as Goa will see its top tennis ball players in action.

Tennis ball cricket buffs will be able to witness stadiumpacked matches with the organisers promising to provide fans with fireworks, live band and lots of other entertainment alongwith daily housie worth Rs 10,000.

Dessai also mentioned that on February 12, only teams from Cuncolim will be allowed to play and on February 13, State teams will be in action. Entries close on February 8. The finals are slated for February 13 at 5 p.m.

GFA First Division: Margao SC v. Mormugao Port Trust, Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, Margao, 4 p.m.

GFA Second Division: Merces SC v. St Mathew SC, St Cruz ground, 4 p.m.

GFA U-14: Rossman Cruz Nagoa SC v. Ambelim SC, Nagoa ground, 4 p.m.

Festival exhibition soccer: St Savio SC, Calangute v. Saligao United, Baga ground, 4.30 p.m.

3rd Wilred Leisure Cup soccer: Wilred Leisure SC v. Ambelim SC, Curtorim ground, 4.30 p.m.

Holy Cross soccer: Mungul v. Main Road, 3.45 p.m.; Chandravaddo v. Marlem, Rosary ground, Fatorda, 3.45 p.m.

Pg 15

SPORTS

GOA, Wednesday, 2 February, 2011

Salcete, Raia in goalless draw HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, FEB 1

Salcete Football Club held Raia Sporting Club to a goalless draw in GFA’s First Division League at Raia panchayat ground, on Tuesday.

Both teams displayed pedestrian football and did not show urgency, as a result play was confined to the midfield. There were a few attempts at the rival goal.

A lot was expected from Salcete but they failed to combine as a cohesive unit with their forwards and midfielders not exerting pressure on the rival citadel.

At the other hand, Raia who are yet to register their maiden win, were struggling to trouble the rival defence and occasionally went for the kill but that was not enough to trouble the Salcete citadel.

Salcete had scoring chances but their forwards were woefully out of touch.

The second session also continued in the same vein with both the teams adopting the safety approach and their moves were hampered inside the rival penalty box with their forwards not quick in utilising the opportunities.

Raia had a scoring chance to seal their fate but striker

Clemente Xavier’s feeble shot went straight into the safe hands of Salcete keeper Presley Mascarenhas late in the second half.

Both teams tried their best but failed to get past the rival rearguard.

With this draw, Salcete Football Club collected seven points from six matches while Raia Sporting Club collected two points from five matches.

Tennis ball cricket teams shine HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, FEB 1

The State women and men teams emerged first and second at senior inter-zonal tennis ball cricket championship respectively in Chennai respectively.

In the finals, Goa women defeated Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu scored 35 runs all out in 5.2 overs. Pooja took 2 wickets, Sharmila and Manisha took 3 wickets each.

In reply, Goa scored the required runs in 3.1 overs. Laxmi Naik (18) and Arti (10).

In the men finals, Goa lost to Tellangana, AP. Goa, batting first, scored 54 runs in the allotted 8 overs. Atish Sawant (20), Gaurav Naik (14), Santosh Chavan (10) and Pramod Dhuri (10).

The Goan tennis ball cricket teams alongwith officials at Vasco Railway Station on Monday.

Tellangana accomplished the required runs in 7.4 overs.

For Goa, Sunay, Mahendra and Pushparaj took 2 wickets each.

The teams were accorded a warm welcome on their arrival at Vasco Railway Station by GTBCA officials, senior players

and coaches.

V M Prabhudesai (Executive Director, SAG), Bruno Coutinho (joint director, coaching SAG), Mahesh Naik and Navin Acharya (assistant secretaries, SAG), Kanta Naik (president, GTBCA) and Roopesh Naik (secretary,

GTBCA) were among those present.

Gaurav Naik and Laxmi Naik led the men and women teams respectively.

The teams were coached by Haresh Parsekar and Hemant Khot respectively.

Big win for Models Eagles, Caculo Chargers up Models Eagles beat Harbour Kelekar 21-8, 21-6. Santosh PrabDempo Jrs Reigning champions Models Ea- Blues 3-1. Sunny Sawant and hudesai and Dr R Borkar beat Astha Gupta lost to Mohammed Sudin Kyuvelkar and Rupchandra HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, FEB 1

HERALD SPORTS REPORTER MAPUSA, FEB 1

Dempo Sports Club Juniors scored two goals in the space of three minutes to down Agasaim Youth Club 2-0, in GFA’s Second Division at Dr Remigio Pinto ground, Taleigao on Tuesday. Both goals came in the first half.

Dempo opened the scoring in the 27th minute, when Jeovito Fernandes crept into the box and lifted the ball over the outrushing Agasaim custodian.

T h r e e m i n u t e s l a t e r, Dempo found themselves 20 up, in a moment of abs o l u t e g e n i u s . Te r e n c e Fernandes superbly pushed the ball past the defender and ran onto it, before swiftly exchanging the ball from his right foot to his left and slotting into the goal.The second half started on a faster tempo then the first but neither team could add to the score line.

Joel Mesquita missed the chance to score for Agasaim.

gles stuttered en route to a 3-1 victory over the Vasco outfit Harbour Blues in Pro Badminton League, organised by Panjim Badminton Club in association with Sports Authority of Goa, at Indoor Stadium, Campal here.

Hot favourites Fomento Flamingos survived a scare from GBA Super Riders, the Ponda team, before prevailing 3-2 in a nail-biting edge of the seat thriller.

The match between Fallary Warriors and PBC Panthers was expected to go the distance.

However, Warriors surprisingly won the contest quite easily with a 3-0 scoreline.

Pre-tournament favourites Caculo Chargers scored a comfortable 3-0 win over Welfits Twisters.

Results:

Sheikh and Pranjal Chimulkar 14-21, 16-21. Chinmay Kamat and Rahul Chandrashekar beat Tejas Prabhugaonkar and Eeshan Vernekar 21-16, 21-18. Parag Chauhan and Darwin Barretto beat Pratik Kamat and Mohammed Sheikh 21-18, 16-21, 21-16. Sunny Sawant beat Pratik Kamat 21-7, 27-25.

Fomento Flamingos beat GBA Super Riders 3-2. Navneet Nasnodkar and Malti Dani lost to Seby Ferrao and Anushka Kuvelkar beat 13-21, 12-21.

Krishnaraj Gauns and Pranav Silimkhan lost to Sharmad Mahajan and Prathit Naik 13-21, 13-21. Floyd Araujo and Navneet Nasnodkar beat Sharmad Mahajan and Seby Ferrao 21-13, 21-14. Floyd Araujo beat Sohan

Humraskar 17-21, 21-13, 21-10.

Fallary Warriors beat PBC Panthers 3-0. Chinmay Fallary and Anura Prabhudesai beat Mahesh Angle and Rhea Kossambe 2115, 21-16. Yash Angle and Sanath Kamat beat Dhruv Angle and Varad Karekar 21-14, 21-8.

Sandip Kanji and Chinmay Fallary beat Vishal Vernekar and Ankush Patil 21-12, 21-14.

Caculo Chargers beat Welfits Twisters 3-0. Pankaj Naik and Marina beat Arnold Rodrigues and Hetal Kenaudikar 21-15, 21-14. Aniket Shenai and Saish Salelkar beat Chirag Narvekar and Ashish Narvekar 21-13, 217. Pankaj Naik and Krushnan Naik beat Luciano Soares and Mahesh Pawaskar 22-20, 2119.

Govt Sadar, Rosary Nuvem win MARGAO (HC) -- Government High School, Sadar and Holy Rosary Convent High School, Nuvem clinched the South Goa District championship in boys and girls categories respectively in U-17 inter-school football

tournament organised by DSYA at SAG sports complex, Fatorda on Tuesday.

In the boys finals, Government High School, Sadar trounced Guardian Angel High School, Curchorem 5-0. They

led 2-0 at half time.

V ikram Singh and Gaby Menezes struck twice.

Khauntankar netted one.

Holy Rosary Convent crushed St Andrew’s High School, Vasco 5-0.

Rousing welcome for taekwondo team

The victories Goan contingent, part of Indian team at 5th Commonwealth Taekwondo Championships alongwith GOA’s Gurudatta Bhakta, Raju Mangehskar, Surendra Rajput and others.

Photo: M Prabhav HERALD REPORTER VASCO, FEB 1

The proud Goan Taekwondo players, who made India proud at the recently concluded 5th Commonwealth Taekwondo Championships in Chennai were accorded a warm welcome on their return at Dabolim Airport on Tuesday.

The Indian contingent that emerged champion among 13 nations wining 75 medal (21 gold, 23 silver and 31 bronze), had 10 Goan players, who bagged eight medals – three

gold, three silver and two bronze.

Indian team coach Sunil Sharma along with his proud players – Aman Kumar , Angela Naik and Elizabeth who bagged goal for Goa, Tanvi Nadkarni, Sagar Palconda and Carlos Lawrenco silver medalists, Dingku Singh and P Anand bronze medal winners were accompanied by Taekondow Association of Goa president Raju Mangeshkar and secretar y Deepak.

The Goan contingent was

given a rousing welcome by family members, sports administration officials and taekwondo fraternity, prominent amongst them being Goa Olympic Association secretary Gurudatta Bhakta, SAI-in-charge Goa, Surendar Rajput, Ashraf Pandyal, coach Teofile Lowe, Oscar Luis, Mahadev Chavan and others.

“We are very pleased with the performance of Goan players as they made their country proud among Commonwealth nations with their spectacular perform-

ance,” said TAG president Raju Mangeshkar.

“Chief Minister Digambar Kamat congratulated the team for its fabulous performance,” said Mangeshkar.

Indian team coach Sunil Sharma, who is SAG coach based in Goa, said that with dedication and hard work the players had managed to get such a wonderful performance.

“It was a though, competition but the Indian team managed to clear all hurdles,” added Sharma.

Infant Jesus HS Colva, Rosary D Paula triumph HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, FEB 1

Infant Jesus High School, Colva and Our Lady of Rosary High School, Dona Paula emerged winners of State Level U-14 boys and girls football respectively at St Cruz ground on Monday.

Infant Jesus boys beat Our

Lady of Grace High School, Bicholim 2-0. Our Lady of Rosary got the better of Manovikas High School, Margao 2-0.

Divakar Kotkar, APEO, DSYA was the chief guest for the boys match while Walter Cabral, principal, Santa Cruz HSS was the chief guest for the girls encounter.

PES, Fr Agnel excel PANJIM (HSD) -- PES College of Arts and Science, Ponda and Fr Agnel College, Pilar won the intercollege volleyball for men and women respectively at Massano de Amorim court, here.

PES defeated Zantye College 3-2 in the men section. Defending champions Zantye won the first two sets 25-21, 25-16. PES College fought back strongly

and won 25-15, 25-22, 15-12.

In the women section, Fr Agnel College beat Rosary College 25-15, 25-16.

Dr A S Dinge, principal, PES College was the chief guest for the men’s finals. Alex Vaz, ex-FIFA referee and instructor was the chief guest for the women’s finals and gave away medals and trophies.

GFA’S EGM cancelled HERALD SPORTS REPORTER PANJIM, FEB 1

The GFA’s Extraordinary General body Meeting (EGM) scheduled to be held at Gomantak Maratha Samaj hall, Panjim on February 6 has been cancelled. No reason has been assigned for the same.

The Extraordinary Meeting was fixed basically to discuss the problem raised by Saligao Sporting and other clubs concerning the teams in Bardez Zone’s Second Division, which they claimed should be restricted to eight instead of the nine.

This is the first time in the history of GFA that the scheduled EGM has been cancelled after being fixed and notices sent to the affiliated clubs.

Tony Remedios, president, Saligao Sporting confirmed that the meeting had been cancelled and that his appeal was lying with the Appeals Committee.

Meanwhile, it is learnt that Albino Vales has suggested certain constitutional amendments to the new constitution adopted in July last and that these may be taken up at the next EGM.

Davorlim lift Loutulim Cup HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, FEB 1

Sporting Club of Davorlim emerged champs defeating Maina Sports Club 3-0 in the finals of 2nd edition of All-Goa Loutulim Panchayat Cup organised by Socio Cultural Club of Loutulim at Montir ground, Loutulim on Sunday.

Andrew Colaco opened Davorlim’s account in the 25th minute. Paston Gomes doubled the lead in the 50th minute.

Melywn Figueredo put the last nail in Maina’s coffin.

Aleixo Sequeira, Power and Environment Minister was the chief guest and gave away the p r i z e s . J o s e Fe r n a n d e s , sarpanch, Loutulim was the guest of honour alongwith Fr George, Vicar, Saviour of the World Church, Loutulim.

The winners were richer by Rs 30,000 while the runners-up had to be content with Rs 25,000.

Following individual prizes were awarded: Best player of the tournament Sertorio Monteiro (Maina). First scorer of the finals Andrew Colaco (Davorlim). Best keeper of the finals Joaquim Figueredo (Davorlim). Best disciplined team UC Benaulim. Outstanding player of the tournament: Abel (Maina).

Agostinho, ex-footballer of Loutulim was felicitated at the hands of Aleixo Sequeira.

Verna too good for Varca HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, FEB 1

Verna Sports Club thrashed Varca Sports Club 5-0 to move into the quarter-finals of 3rd Wilred Leisure Cup inter-village football tournament organised

by Wilred Leisure Sports Club at Curtorim ground, on Tuesday.

Verna led 3-0 at the breather.

Verna dominated from the start and swarmed all over the rival territory. They made several forays into the Varca half and

broke the deadlock when Arcenio Pereira fired home from close range.

The early goal helped Verna mount pressure and they doubled the lead with Anthony Rego bulging the net in the 25th minute. Even as Varca tried hard to regain their composure, there was a let up by the Verna players.

Verna continued to pile up pressure when the Varca defenders failed to contain. John Costa further consolidated when he beat the

rival keeper with a stiff grounder.

The second half did not bring respite for Varca as Verna attacked both the flanks. Varca were subdued as they failed to play as a cohesive unit and they surrendered their challenge meekly without giving any fight.

John Costa struck a second time to complete his brace soon after resumption. Anthony Rego drove the last nail into Varca’s coffin late in the second half to record a fluent win.

Mixed Boys, Kevnem Boys, Cacra Boys top HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, FEB 1

Mixed Boys, Aivao, Kevnem Boys and Cacra Boys emerged victorious in the 5-a-side U-14, U-16 and U-18 Don Bosco soccer festival respectively organised by Don Bosco, Odxel at Odxel (Taleigao) on Sunday.

In the U-14 finals, Mixed Boys, Aivao got the better of 5TTR, Odxel 1-0. Sahil Diukar netted the match-winner.

Cacra Boys and Odxel Boys fell out in the semi-finals.

In the U-16 semi-finals, Super

Strikers, Aivao defeated Dobkeak Bhair while Kevnem Boys got the better of Remsy's Gym. In the finals, Kevnem Boys beat Super Strikers, Aivao 2-1 via the tie-breaker. There was no score at full time.

In the tie-breaker, Saif Ali and Devendra Gaus shot on target for Kevnem Boys and Sachin Lokhande scored for Super Strikers.

In the U-18 semi-finals, Cacra Boys and Kevnem Boys hammered South Hall, Odxel and Bambolim Boys respectively.

The U-14, U-16 and U-18 winners alongwith Fr Joaquim Lobo.

In the finals, Cacra Boys walked past Kevnem Boys 2-1 via the tie-breaker. There was no score at full time.

Neeraj D'Mello and Nitesh Parvatkar were successful for Cacra Boys while Yogesh Murgaokar netted for Kevnem Boys.

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Big time tennis cricket at Cuncolim Pg 14

GOA, WEDNESDAY, 2 FEBRUARY, 2011

Tennis ball cricket teams shine Pg 15

Contact us on: sports@herald-goa.com

www.oheraldo.in

We will not be the underdogs: Dhoni PTI MUMBAI, FEB 1

Weighed down by the pressure of expectations four years ago, the Indian squad crashed out of the World Cup at the preliminary stage itself but current captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni is confident his team would handle the burden better in the upcoming mega-event.

"We take pressure as an added responsibility. We will stick to the basics and prepare well. We have the potential to do well in the tournament. For a change we will not be the underdogs," said Dhoni at a promotional event here.

T h e Ranchib o r n wicket-

world cup Briefs

Batting form, luck at toss important: Kapil

Batting would be India's strength in the upcoming World Cup but Mahendra Singh Dhoni's wretched luck with the toss will also have to turn for the better if India are to break a 28year-old jinx at the megaevent, feels 1983 World Cup winning captain Kapil Dev. "Our strength is batting and I feel we should depend on that and have faith. Luck also plays a part...winning the toss in every match. It will be marginally difficult if we lose the toss and the rival team posts a huge total for us to chase a target of 300 or so," the legendary all-rounder told PTI in an interview.

"If we get to bat first and make 300 and odd runs, our bowlers could do the rest for us to win each match," he added.

Power cuts during WC worry Bangla Bangladesh has ordered electricity companies to show World Cup cricket matches on generatorpowered public screens in a bid to prevent protests by irate fans if power cuts disrupt TV broadcasts.

Cricket-mad Bangladesh is a co-host of the World Cup, which starts February 19, and Dhaka is keen to prevent a repeat of the unrest during the 2010 football World Cup when fans rioted after power cuts interrupted viewing.

"We have been told to show World Cup matches on generator-powered wide-screens. We are going to organise this because of the prevailing power shortages," said Manzur Rahman, head of state-owned power company DESCO.

Dhoni is ‘Obama’ of cricket: Praveen If being inspiring is a measure of leadership skills then Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni is comparable only to charismatic American President Barack Obama, feels all-rounder Praveen Kumar.

"He is the Obama of cricket," was Praveen's reply when asked what makes Dhoni a special captain.

‘Sachin will make biggest impact’ In form Australian allrounder Shane Watson has identified master blaster Sachin Tendulkar, stylish Sri Lanka batsman Mahela Jayawardene and West Indies batsman Kieron Pollard to make the biggest impact in the 2011 World Cup. Watson, who joined Inside Cricket on Monday night, and revealed the three opponents to watch in the 2011 tournament.

Watson said all three players have proved they can perform on the big stage and that Pollard in particular will make light work of the small grounds on the subcontinent.

keeper batsman, however, refused to predict whether India will go on and regain the coveted crown after a gap of 28 years.

"I never predict what will happen in cricket. We believe in each other and we believe in the process. We will take each game in the right frame of mind," said Dhoni ahead of India's campaign in the Febrary 19-April 2 showpiece event.

Dhoni brushed aside concerns about India's opening match against co-hosts Bangladesh in Dhaka after what had happened in the 2007 World Cup in the West Indies when the Rahul Dravid-led side got knocked out following a shock defeat at the hands of their eastern neighbours.

"The past is past. I am more optimistic than you," he said referring to the lungopener against Bangladesh on February 19.

Dhoni refused to agree with England batsman Kevin Pietersen, who criticised the World Cup schedule for long gaps between matches and preferred to look at it as an opportunity to recover from niggles and relax.

"I don't know about other sports but we

criticise a lot in cricket. When we have tight schedule we say there's too much cricket and when there are gaps we say there's too little. It's difficult to prepare a perfect schedule," Dhoni said.

"We would utilise these breaks to relax and get over whatever niggles we have," he added.

India play their second match in Group B, against England at Bangalore, eight days after they kick off the mega-event in Dhaka against Bangladesh.

Later on, Dhoni and his men play three matches in close succession -- against Ireland, the Netherlands and South Africa -between March 6 and 12 and in different centres, all at home.

Pietersen had criticised the scheduling of the tournament in the British media.

"How can the England team play once and then in six days' time play again, and then in six days' time play again. It's ridiculous but there's nothing we can do about the schedules," the England player was quoted as having said.

Players pay to be slashed supposed to get,” said a senior player.

As per the new clause, Gautam Gambhir, who Top Indian cricketers have objected to a clause went for Rs 11.04 cr, will get only Rs 8.83 cr in in their IPL contract that denies them case Kolkata Knight Riders fail to 20% of their fees in case their team make the top three in IPL 4. hock fails to finish among the top Team owners insisted the three and thus qualify for then As per the new clause, new clause was legitimate. “It Champions League. a unique idea and it made Gautam Gambhir, who was Players of the 10 IPL teams a lot of sense. Like in any read the newly-introduced fine went for Rs 11.04 cr, sphere of life, the payment print in their contracts only will get only Rs 8.83 cr will be performance-based. after the January 8-9 auction, Moreover, when we buy a and collectively approached in case Kolkata Knight player at the auction we are BCCI president Shashank Riders fail to make the are paying for him to be with Manohar with their complaint top three in IPL 4. us for both IPL and Champilast week. ons League. And if the team At the meeting, the players said that the clause doesn’t make it to the Champions League, the was unfair, and a breach of their trust. “At the auction player shouldn’t be paid,” said the co-owner the entire world saw what we were supposed to of a team. get but that was not the case when we read the The clause is part of the contract of only contract. Twenty20 cricket is highly unpredictable those players who were at the auction. Uncapped and even if we give our best, things can change. players will get full payment regardless of how One bad game can see us lose 20% of what we are their teams do.

AGENCIES MUMBAI, FEB 1

IPL S

Torres joins Chelsea in deadline day frenzy AGENCIES LONDON, FEB 1

The British transfer record was smashed twice on Monday as Liverpool sold Fernando Torres to Chelsea but raided Newcastle United for an immediate replacement in the shape of burly England frontman Andy Carroll.

The two strikers, together with Benfica defender David Luiz who also joined Chelsea on deadline day, took spending in the final hour of the transfer window to around £100 million ($160.5 million) as the club's owners flexed their financial muscles.

Torres cost Chelsea a widely reported £50 million -- a new British record by quite a margin -- after the 22-year-old Carroll signed a five and a half year deal with Liverpool, his fee reported to be £35 million.

Carroll will not have to fill the hole left by the 26-year-old Torres alone, however, after Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish also completed the signing of Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez from Ajax for a further 26.5 million euros ($34.2 million).

Torres could face Liverpool in a blue Chelsea shirt on Sunday when the sides meet in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge and should expect a frosty reception from the Liverpool fans who idolised him after his 2007 move from Atletico Madrid.

"This is a big step forward in my career to join a club like Chelsea," Torres, who netted 81 times in 142 games for Liverpool, told Chelsea's television channel.

"They are one of the biggest teams in Europe and are always fighting for everything and it's a target for every footballer to

Pak win over Kiwis AGENCIES NAPIER, FEB 1

Misbah-ul-haq overcame the loss of late wickets to keep his cool and guide Pakistan to a twowicket victory over New Zealand in their fourth one-day international match in Napier on Tuesday.

Misbah, who has anchored Pakistan's batting throughout the tour of New Zealand, proved once again a thorn in the side of Daniel Vettori's team, scoring 93 not out as Pakistan finished on 264 for eight in 49 overs having chased down the host's 262 for seven.

Pakistan's Test captain, who had been coasting to the victory target while batting with Younus Khan (42), was forced to take all the responsibility of getting his side home when Younus was run out in the 38th over.

Umar Akmal then scratched around for 10 off 17 balls before he was well caught in the 43rd over by Nathan McCullum off Vettori, who trapped Shahid Afridi in front two balls later to give New Zealand a faint hope of running through the bowlers to win the match and take a 21 lead in the best of six series.

New Zealand: M Guptill c Younus b Wahab 21, J How c U Akmal b Razzaq 13, R Taylor c Younus b Wahab 4, S Styris run out 11, K Williamson c Younus b Hafeez 15, J Franklin c Wahab b Afridi 62, B McCullum c K. Akmal b Wahab 37, N McCullum not out 53, D Vettori not out 13. Extras: 33.

Total: 262 for 7. Fall of wickets: 1-40, 2-44, 3-44, 4-68, 579, 6-141, 7-205. Bowling: Sohail 9-0-67-0, Razzaq 7-316-1, Wahab 10-1-51-3, Gul 7-0-49-0, Hafeez 7-0-25-1, Afridi 10-0-42-1 Pakistan: M Hafeez c Taylor b Bennett 12, A Shehzad c Taylor b Styris 42, K Akmal c Taylor b Styris 20, Y Khan run out 42, Misbah-ul-haq not out 93, U Akmal c N McCullum b Vettori 10, S Afridi lbw b Vettori 4, A Razzaq c Vettori b Bennett 23, W Riaz c B. McCullum b Styris 0, S Tanvir not out 14. Extras: 4. Total: 264 for 8. Fall of wickets: 1-43, 2-71, 3-84, 4-173, 5-194, 6-198, 7-238, 8-250. Bowling: Southee 10-0-70-0, Bennett 10-0-48-2, N. McCullum 4-0-26-0, Vettori 10-0-48-2, Styris 9-0-40-3, Franklin 6-0-29-0. Man-of-match: Misbah-ul-haq.

play for one of the top clubs in the world.

"I'm happy that I am. I am very happy with my transfer to Chelsea and I am looking forward very much to helping my new team mates this season and for many years to come," he added.

C h e l s e a o w n e r Ro m a n Abramovich reminded the football world of his spending power after some belt-tightening in the last couple of seasons and displayed his support for underfire manager Carlo Ancelotti, who led the club to the double in 2009-10.

"Signing a player of the stature of Fernando Torres benefits the club on many levels," Chelsea chief executive Ron Gourlay told the club's website.

"Carlo Ancelotti was keen to add his talents to the squad as we continue our quest for three trophies this season, we are delighted we have succeeded with that wish, and this signing will undoubtedly aid the club in realising our worldwide potential -- on and off the pitch," he added.

Somdev in second round south african open PTI JOHANNESBURG, FEB 1

Indian tennis ace SomdevDevvarman eased into the second r o u n d o f t h e AT P S o u t h AfricanOpen with a straight-set win over local hope Raven Klaasen inhis opening match here.

Somdev defeated the local qualifier 6-4 6-3 in hislungopener of the USD 442,500 event.

Valencia spoil Racing party laliga AGENCIES MADRID, FEB 1

Valencia grabbed a late equaliser to draw 1-1 at Racing Santander in La Liga on Monday, putting a damper on the festive atmosphere at the Sardinero following their takeover by an Indian businessman over the weekend.

Ahsan Ali Syed scored for Racing in the 32nd minute which was equalised by Tino Costa in the 52nd minute.

SPORTS

Sehwag is a game changer: Pietersen AGENCIES NEW DELHI, FEB 1

Himself a game changer who pioneered the controversial switch-hit, England batsman Kevin Pietersen feels destructive Indian opener Virender Sehwag and West Indian Chris Gayle are the other two batsmen capable of turning a match on its head.

"There are a few players I admire as game changers today.

Virender Sehwag is one of them, he opens the batting and you know as an opposing player that within 10-15 overs of a Test match or 10-15 overs of a one day international, the man can change the game," Pietersen said.

"Another game changer is Chris Gayle from the Caribbean, who does a similar job as Sehwag.

These are the two guys I love watching and love playing against," he added.

The flamboyant 30-yearold, whose switch-hit gets

him as much applause as criticism, said he always tries to innovate so as to make the sport interesting for the fans.

"Change the Game to me means constantly trying to bring something new and something fresh to what you do. In the current highly competitive scenario, it's really important to surprise the opposition with unexpected actions and to change the face of the game by pushing the boundaries," Pietersen said.

"Cricket is a sport that has evolved so much and being a part of that evolution... bringing something new when we play... keeps the fun alive, not only for us but for the fans as well," he added.

Pietersen, who would be featuring Pe p s i ' s 'Change the Game campaign' for the upcoming ICC C r i c ke t Wo r l d Cup, said he practices the switch hit for long hours at the nets.

Injury cloud over Praveen

NEW DELHI (Agencies) -- India face an anxious wait over the fitness status of fast bowler Praveen Kumar, who is yet to recover from the elbow injury he sustained during last month's tour of South Africa.

Kumar is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore, but reports suggest that he could soon leave for England for further treatment.