4 Nov,2010 HERALD PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD

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Goa’s Heartbeat: Kareena in Aamir’s next movie? Pg 4 Govt orders cargo check from Yemen, Somalia

Centre has directed all air and sea ports and the postal department to thoroughly check any cargo coming from Yemen and Somalia in the wake of detection of US-bound parcel bombs sent from Yemen in an alleged al-Qaeda plot. — (PTI)

Business: Essel Propack to expand Goa facility Pg 12

(air surcharge rs 2.00) pages 16 + 4

Sports: CSA mulls legal action against Gibbs Pg 16

5-star hotels within Narkasur raises CRZ will go: Jairam ugly head again!

Says axe will fall on 8,000 structures HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, NOV 3

A statement which could ruffle many feathers in political and business circles, the Union Minister for Environment Jairam Ramesh has categorically stated that all five-star hotels and vacation beach complexes constructed by violating Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) will have to face the axe in Goa. According to Ramesh there are approximately 8,000 illegal structures in Goa as per satellite imagery pictures and he has directed the State Government to demolish them.

“There are 8,000 illegal structures. We carried out a satellite imagery of Goa. We have told the government that they must be demolished,” Ramesh told a national TV channel.

Pointing to the State Government’s plea to save traditional houses belonging to fishermen,

If there are fishermen and traditional communities, let’s think of ways of resolving the issue. … but I cannot understand five-star hotels and vacation beach complexes, they have to go if they are violating CRZ. — Jairam Ramesh he said, “I can understand the issue.”

“If there are fishermen and traditional communities, let’s think of ways of resolving this issue,” Ramesh said. “…but I cannot understand five-star hotels…I cannot understand vacation beach complexes, they have to go if they are violating CRZ,” he stated indicating that any structure found in violation of CRZ will be proceeded against under the law.

The Environment Minister

was speaking in reference to the Adarsh Scam in Maharashtra wherein 31-storey apartment block being constructed in the posh Colaba area of South Mumbai by violating CRZ norms.

When asked for their comments, none of the officials in the State Government were ready to comment.

However, an official on condition of anonymity only said “What the minister said is right but let me ask who gives permissions to five-star hotels? It (Continued on page 10)

Police in full gear, to keep close eye in Margao HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, NOV 3

Watch towers and closed circuit TV cameras will maintain a close vigil on Narkasur competition in the Commercial Capital on Thursday evening as the police is bracing up to throw a massive security cover to keep miscreants at bay.

With the Narkasur competition coming a year after the bomb blast that killed two persons, metres away from the l Police to ensure no slip-up — Pg 3 venue, the police are leaving nothing to chance this time stalling CCTVs along the route. round.

Margao Sub-Divisional Police While granting permission Officer, DySP Umesh Gaonkar to the city-based organisers, informed that police force from Solid Party Trust to hold the the Margao sub-division, becompetition along the tradi- sides two platoons of Reserve tional route from the Collec- police, will be mobilised in torate to the Margao Municipal strength for bandobast duty.

Square, the police have enGiven that the miscreants trusted the responsibility of had come prepared to plant erecting watch towers and in- bombs on a scooter last year,

Indian-American makes Can’t work with history in US politics Jose Philip: Mickky PTI WASHINGTON/NEW YORK, NOV 3

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, NOV 3

Indian-American Nikki Haley of Republican party scripted history today by winning the South Carolina gubernatorial polls, becoming only the second person of Indian origin to be Governor of a US State, but rest of the six candidates from the community drew a blank in the keenly contested mid-term Congressional polls.

In key mid-term polls in which President Barack Obama’s Democrats were routed, Haley, 38, born of Sikh parents who migrated from Punjab, became only the second Indian-American to be a Governor of a US State after Bobby Jindal of Louisiana; and also the first Indian-origin woman governor.

“You know, tomorrow morn-

Politics makes strange bedfellows, but that doesn’t seem to be the case between Nationalist Congress Party legislators Jose Philip D’Souza and Mickky Pacheco both of whom had a fall out over the municipal elections recently.

On Wednesday Pacheco reportedly told the party’s national General Secretary and Goa Desk In-Charge Prakash Bhinsale he can’t work under the leadership of Jose Philip, who, yesterday, expressed his desire to quit as president.

Answering queries on whether he would be interested in taking over as party president, Pacheco said there were many senior people in the party capable of handling the post.

ing there’s going to be a lot of news and a lot of observers that say we made history and in some ways, you can look at me and say we did,” Haley said in his victory speech.

“But what I want this to be is that we’re turning a page. We’re turning a page on where we’ve been but the history’s going to be on where we go,” she said.

The news was welcomed by Indian Americans.

India fails to get Obama nod for UNSC seat PTI WASHINGTON, NOV 3

Ahead of his visit, President Barack Obama today described India as a “cornerstone” of US engagement in Asia, but held out no assurances on key issues —support for India’s permanent membership of the UN Security Council and ending curbs on export of dual-use technology.

Outlining the objectives of his trip beginning Saturday, Obama said that building “a true strategic partnership” with India had been one of his “highest foreign policy priorities” since he assumed office last year.

The visit would give him an opportunity to work with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to bring Indo-US cooperation on a broad range of issues “to a new level”, he told PTI.

The Indo-US partnership “is based on both our shared values and our shared interests, and I welcome and support India’s rise as a global power”, he said.

India’s rise “is in the best interests of both the countries and the world”, he said.

The President answered a wide range of questions covering contentious issues like US curbs on export of dual-use technology items, outsourcing, UNSC membership and Pakistan’s failure to take action against perpetrators of 26/11 attacks.

Asked about the possibility of his announcing lifting of curbs on export of dual-use technology items and more concrete support for India’s permanent membership of UNSC, Obama described the two issues as very difficult and complicated”.

Speaking to Herald, the Benaulim strongman said today he discussed the Vasco spat with Bhinsale. Besides the ugly incident I discussed many other things pertaining to the party.

Sources said Mickky showed the video clippings of the Vasco fracas to the Goa Desk In-charge.

He reiterated to Herald right at this point of time he wasn’t interested in party presidentship with the way things have shaped up. But let me make it clear I am with NCP, he asserted.

On rumours whether he was likely to quit NCP, he again reasserted that he was firmly with the party. Whatever pertaining to me I leave it to the High Command, he said and added, “But let me tell you I am a leader of the people and the people will (Continued on page 10)

he said that anti-sabotage checks will be carried out not only near the venue, but also at the nearby parking lots.

‘There will not be any laxity in the security arrangements. The security arrangements will be similar to that made during the Carnival and Shigmo float parades in the city earlier this year”, he added.

Two persons, Malgonda Patil and Yogesh Naik, both members of Sanatan Sanstha, were killed behind Grace Church on the eve of Diwali last year. The Margao police later charged the duo along with nine other accused persons for criminal conspiracy to plant the bombs at five places including Margao, Sancoale and Vasco.

Trial in the bomb blast case is currently underway in the South Goa Sessions Court.

(Continued on page 10)

Rains may dampen Diwali festivities HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, NOV 3

After rains washed out the ODI at Fatorda, Diwali celebrations too are under rain threat with State Met Department predicting showers for next three days.

The post monsoon showers which hit the State today afternoon after sunny weather are likely to continue for few more days due to the low pressure belt in Bay of Bengal. The Capital City today witnessed heavy showers accompanied by thunderstorms.

(Continued on page 10)

Terrible rains!! Instead of Sword or club, we have to place an umbrella in his hand...

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GOA, THURSDAY, 4 NOVEMBER, 2010

Breaching ‘water tight’ security at Secretariat not a difficult task!

VIBHA VERMA PANJIM, NOV 3

Although ‘water tight’ security plan is worked for Secretariat at Porvorim, the glaring lacunas do surface nullifying the entire protection measures.

Personal inspection by Herald at this most sensitive establishment revealed that certain flaws in the execution of the security plan. It’s not much difficult for anyone to go inside unchecked or showing fake identity.

A normal visitor encounters first security ring in the form of armed security policemen, to be precise two to three of them.

They are aided by Private Guards in their respective uniforms.

This cover is not an issue for government servants, who can show their Identity Card and step in. But for the normal visitor, the procedure starts here.

When this reporter tried to enter, politely, was asked to go and register herself.

And registering seems to be just a formality. After reaching the counter and giving the details like Address, Name and Phone number, there is no cross

check, even about the identity.

A normal glance on the face and a peep in your hand bag and you are let go. A computerized visitor’s pass is then allotted.

Inside the complex (which is abode for Secretaries and Under Secretaries) every visitor is asked to take visitors’ slip from the counter, next to the entrance.

The name and address was asked but not verified by any security personnel.

In what seems to be a casual behaviour, despite telling the right phone number, the staff typed wrong number. Moreover, the pass which is issued is valid for one day, and a visitor can come to Secretariat any number of time, unchecked even after he goes out and comes back.

The pass has mention of date, name, address, phone number of the visitor, after which ‘person to be seen’ followed by room number (which was not mentioned in the slip).

A copy of the visitor’s pass is available with Herald. Also, while the purpose of the visit

was mentioned the visitor’s signature was not obtained.

The vast secretariat complex houses ministerial blocks where ministers carry out their routine activities, bureaucrats and most importantly assembly sessions is slated to begin soon.

Besides, Goa police squad, the secretariat has private security manning the entire premise.

When Herald spoke to a security guard, he said that the security has been strengthened since November 1 onwards.

“There are complaints that we do not check visitors. Thus, security is stricter,” said the guard.

The complex moreover has installed Door Frame Metal Detectors which goes unmanned, (atleast on Wednesday). The security lapse was clearly visible also as a persons candidly walking around inside the building was not questioned.

When this reporter visited the area, after an hour without the pass given earlier, she was allowed as some security men recognized she visited the

place little before. The belongings were not checked after entering the premise against from the next gate though she was just questioned as to whom she had to meet and whether she was a government servant or not.

Superintendent of (Security) Police Tony Fernandes, when contacted, said that security is always full proof here.

At present, apart from a large squad of private security, 30 armed and plain clothed policemen are deployed in the premise. Highly reliable sources told Herald that Goa police has proposed the Government of one platoon Central Security force to be deployed at the secretariat.

SP (headquarters) Vishram Borker has confirmed that they have recently proposed the government of additional central reserves. “The secretariat had asked Goa police for additional force and we provided them immediately. We have gone a step further and proposed the government for Central force,” he said.

Illegal mining transport halted in Quepem HERALD CORRESPONDENT QUEPEM, NOV 3

Residents of Undorna and Molkernem along with the officials of Mines department, Quepem, on Wednesday stopped illegal mining transport plying through their village.

According to village sources, a local contractor started transportation of mining ore through the village, which was extracted right from the catchment area of Salaulim irrigation project, on October 26.

“However on the same day, a local died after an empty mining truck knocked him down,” informed sources.

“Irked with the accident, villagers stopped illegal mining transport plying via Undorna.

However, the contractor again started the illegal mining transport on November 2, which continued even on Wednesday,” claimed the sources.

The irate villagers on Wednesday at about 11 am with the assistance of officials of mining department Quepem stopped the mining transport and did not allow the trucks to ply.

Municipal polls: BJP’s poor show hands Cong the advantage HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, NOV 3

After the setback in Valpoi byelection, the BJP’s miserable performance in just concluded municipal elections has further pushed it on the backburner visà-vis Congress Party.

The municipal election results cannot be taken as direct reflection of which party will emerge victories in the assembly polls but certainly, it indicates the trend that might emerge during assembly polls in 2012 even as BJP observed that municipal elections are not fought on party lines.

As regards to claims by the Congress Party this municipal election they have emerged victorious, the BJP spokesperson Rajendra Arlekar however said, “in the next few days the picture will be cleared as to who has got an upper hand and in which municipality”.

The BJP supported candidates

lost in eight of the eleven MCs whereas in Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) and Bicholim Municipal Council (BMC) they have not been able to maintain its previous score.

The BJP councillor Rajaram Gaonkar who served for two terms as chairman of BMC has lost and, shockingly, the BJP panel failed to open its account in Margao Municipal Council (MMC).

Arlekar further said money and muscle power has played an important role in the municipal elections.

Also, reservation of wards which he alleged was done in such a way so to put BJP supported candidates at disadvantage hurt chances of its candidates.

“Rupesh Mahatme in Margao had to contest from elsewhere since his ward was reserved for women, so also was the case with Narayan Fondekar,” said

Arlekar.

Similarly, Bicholim, Mormugao and Pernem are glaring examples of this mischief, he added.

Election of one Ward in Pernem Municipal Council (PMC), reserved for ST, had to be deferred for want of eligible candidate. Section 10 of Goa Municipal Act read “reservation has to be done as per concentration of the community in that area” he pointed out alleging that reservation of ward was done in keeping with Congress supported candidates in mind.

However, underlining fact is that picture does not appear rosy for BJP post municipal election which is desperate to wrestle power from Congress-NCP bind.

Except for Mapuasa and Bicholim BJP MLAs have failed to make a mark and with assembly polls likely to happen early 2012 -- it needs to get its act together.

Sanskriti Express arrives in State

Princess removal: Rotation is name of the to be called game in Sanguem council bidders for discussion HERALD CORRESPONDENT SANGUEM, NOV 3

Except for two from among the 10 councillors elected to Sanguem Municipal Council (SMC), rest will occupy either the post of chairperson or vice chairperson in the SMC on rotation basis for the next five years.

This was decided at a meeting held on Wednesday at the residence of Minister of Urban Development Joaquim Alemao to arrive at an amicable settlement of terms among all the newly elected members.

For the first term of three years, seasoned politician and a five-time winner of elections from Ward 8 Sanjay Raikar will occupy the post of chairperson, while for the remaining term of two years, the seat will be occupied by Sanguem Block Goa Pradesh Congress Committee President Revansiddh Naik, who

Sanjay Raikar

won from Ward 3.

The vice chairperson’s post will be rotated among the five councillors on yearly basis.

For the first year, Analina Fernandes, wife of ex-councillor Romualdo, will occupy the post, followed by Shaikh Imtiaz for the second year.

Queroz Cruz, Francisca Lima

and Deepak Ravindra Marathe will hold the post for the remaining term of three years.

Sanjay Raikar has worked as SMC chairperson for over 10 years and being a seasoned politician, he was the first choice among the newly elected representatives to head the council.

Incidentally, Agnelo F G da Costa despite having won the elections for the second time, did not press for any of the post, as he seems to be contended in serving his voters and for the development of his ward by being a councillor.

Similarly, Changuna Salgaonkar, who shot into limelight in politics since her role in the garbage issue, which rocked the SMC two years ago was also not considered either to the post of chairperson of vice chairperson.

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, NOV 3

The Sub-Committee of State Disaster Management Committee (SDMA) engaged in scrutinizing the bids for removal of the grounded M V River Princess will call all the nine bidders for discussion on November 8.

“Nine bidders who responded to tender notice released by the Department of Tourism for removal of the grounded vessel will be called for discussion,” an official in the tourism department told Herald.

The technical bids were opened on November 1 whereas financial bids will be opened after technical bids are short listed.

“The Sub-Committee though

met today it was not able to reach to any conclusion and has decided to call nine bidders for discussion before finalising the technical bidders,” said the officer.

However, the official said, final decision to shortlist the bidders would be taken by the SDMA. The bids have been filed

by Jaisu Shipping, Gujarat, Seascan Reliance, Vasco, M/s Madgavkar Salvage & Smith Salvage – Goa, Sanjeev Jain, Mumbai Arihart Ship Breaking, Resolve Salvage & Fire Europe Ltd. - UK, Kadam Quereshi – Bombay, M/s Al-Fala General Trading -- Bahrain, Salgaocar Mining Industries Pvt Ltd, and Titan Maritime (Sea) Pvt Ltd, Singapore, which are now under consideration of the subcommittee.

Beatlemania at KA today HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, NOV 3

In commemoration of the 50th anniversar y of the world’s greatest-ever band, ‘The Beatles’, the world’s No. 1 Beatles musical ‘Beatlemania’ will be staged today at the Kala Academy, Panjim. Currently on a worldwide tour, the ‘Cavern Beatles’ a band from the ‘Beatles’ native Liverpool, which not only replicates their music but even mannerisms and changing costumes through their careers, has a three-gig India sojourn, at Goa, Bangalore and Chennai from 4 November to 7 November.

Brought to India by Melwyn Camara Productions with Wiz Creations, the two-hour show is in three acts. The first features their songs up to 1964 with coordinated black suits and pointed shoes. Act 2 has the Shea Stadium performa n c e a n d t h e a l b u m ‘ Re volver’. Act 3 goes into the psychedelic era and Abbey Road. The Cavern Beatles once actually backed Sir Paul McCartney for a performance of ‘I Saw Her Standing There’ in New York.

1 sentenced to 3-yrs prison for stabbing PI HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, NOV 3

The South Goa Sessions court has sentenced one Santosh Naik to three years imprisonment for stabbing Cuncolim Police subinspector Prasanna Bhagat.

The court has further imposed a fine of Rs 8000 on the accused with a condition that part of the fine should be given to the victim if paid by the accused.

PSI Prasanna Bhagat was stabbed by the accused after the police officer had gone to the Balli residence of the accused to arrest him in a criminal case.

The accused had stabbed the accused with the knife before making good his escape under the cover of darkness.

Sanskriti Express, a special exhibition train, stationed at Vasco Railway station.

HERALD REPORTER VASCO, NOV 3

Sanskriti Express, a special exhibition train launched by the Indian Railways to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, arrived in Goa on Wednesday.

Sanskriti Express will be stationed at Vasco-da-Gama Railway station on November 3 and 4. The exhibition train will showcase the life and philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore. It is a tribute by the Railways to the poet laureate.

Vasco Railway Station Manager P C Chacko along with Shridhar Som, in-charge of the train, declared open the train for the general public from 10 am to 7 pm for two days.

“To commemorate the 150th birth anniversar y of Rabindranath Tagore and disseminate his legacy to the younger generation, Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee flagged off the

train from Howrah Railway station on May 9,” informed Som. “The train will travel all over the country for a period of one year and will also travel to Bangladesh during this period,” added Som. The five air-conditioned coaches depict Tagore’s achievements and his philosophy.

In a press release, the railway authorities stated that the first coach is called ‘Jibon Smriti’ which depicts Tagore’s life through the photographs, his reminiscences about Santiniketan and about Sriniketan.

“The second coach of the Sanskriti Express is called ‘Gitanjali’, which exhibits poems.”

The release also pointed out that two songs from Rabindra Sangeet canon are now the national anthems of India and Bangladesh, Jana Gana Mana and Amar Shonar Bangla.

The third coach of the train is called ‘Muktodhara’, which

Cops pin hopes on elders, leaders for peace at Moti Dongor HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, NOV 3

The ban ‘Cavern Beatles’ to perform at Kala Academy.

Fire Services to provide ‘fire cover’ during Narkasur

Sex racket: Another accused held

cautions to be taken while burning Narkasur or crackers,” he stated.

The department also feels that the restriction on height of Narkasur will also keep people away from fire-related incidents.

Goa is gearing up for Diwali festival on November 5 and larger than life size effigies of mythological demon, Narkasur, are getting final touches.

Traditionally, these effigies are taken in procession in the city before burning them in the wee hours to kick-off the Diwali celebrations.

The director has opined against burning Narkasur effigies in the city as it creates menace on the road, next day.

“The civic body should see that an open space like Campal Pared Ground is used for such purpose,” Menon said.

Meanwhile, the department through their pamphlets has appealed people to be cautious while using crackers. Various precautions like fire crackers to be used under supervision of elders, a bucket of water

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, NOV 3

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, NOV 3

The state Fire and Emergency Services will provide a ‘fire cover’ during Narkasur festivities, in order to avoid any incidences of fire emergencies on Diwali eve.

Director of Fire and Emergency Services, Ashok Menon said that fire cover will be provided to all those communities and societies, which will approach us for the fire safety.

“A fire cover will comprise a vehicle and a team of fire personnel accompanying it.

They will ensure that Narkasur and crackers are burnt with abundant precautions and without causing ablaze,” Menon said.

The department, which received a good response last year for its fire cover, has appealed the Narkasur revellers to approach them for the cover.

“We are yet to receive any applications from the public asking for a fire cover. I think this is a positive sign as people are now aware about the pre-

and sand to be used while burning crackers, windows and doors of the houses should be closed, no handling of crackers in hands, avoid re-burning, and many more.

Truck driver dies in mishap HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARCEL, NOV 3

A truck driver died, while the cleaner escaped with minor injuries after the truck in which they were travelling turned on its side on Kundaim slope on Wednesday at about 2.30 pm.

According to Ponda Police, the accident occurred when the truck (Mh-06, 3879) was proceeding from Ponda towards Panjim. On reaching Kundaim slope, truck driver Vidhyakumar Paswan (30) of UP lost control over the vehicle.

The truck driver jumped out from the truck, but died as he had sustained head injuries.

Truck cleaner Ajay Paswan escaped with minor injuries.

Panjim police on a tip-off today arrested a third person in the alleged inter-state sex racket that was busted near Junta House on Saturday night.

The alleged accused identified as Sawan Patil, 23, from Maharashtra played the role of supplying girls to wealthy customers.

Police sources said that his telecommunications were tracked even as the main accused Javed is still untraceable.

Panjim police, on a tip-off had conducted a raid from near Junta House and rescued three victims.

The victims are suspected to be minor in age as they have refused for medical examination.

Police said that the girls, claiming from Mumbai failed to produce documentary proof of their age and also refused for the ossification test claiming that they were major.

Two youths – Amjad Hussein Khan and Manoj Kumar – in their early 20s arrested for the offence have confessed to police that they supplied girls to big hotels in Goa and neighbouring places.

With the migrant-inhabited Moti Dongor giving sleepless nights to the police post Civic polls, the men-in-uniform now pin their hopes on the elders and other social leaders to ensure the hillock does not erupt into violence.

While the police continue to maintain vigil in the narrow basties and gullies atop the hillock, senior police officials had closed door interaction with the seniors within the community to broker peace amongst the warring factions.

Says Margao Sub-divisional Police officer, DySP Umesh Gaonkar: “After my interaction with the elders, it appears there are several issues that have led to the present situation. The incidents are not entirely linked to the Civic polls, but the differences have been simmering for quite some time, which has now come to the open”.

Incidentally, the elders are believed to have told the police that they are helpless in cracking the whip against the young members of the community, working at cross purposes. The police, however, have told the elders that they will be forced to reign in any anti-social activity if things do not fall in place at the earliest.

“The police have been trying to calm down frayed tempers

atop the hillock. But, there is certainly a limit”, DySP Gaonkar warned.

What has further complicated matters atop the hillock is that one group has split into two, with one group supporting the candidatures fielded by the Chief Minister and the other group rallying behind other candidates.

Incidents of assaults were reported from Moti Dongor area after polling for the Margao Civic body ended at 5 pm on October 31. The rival camp has claimed the assault was led by supporters close to the Chief Minister, Digambar Kamat.

Since then, there’s an uneasy calm on the hillock with fresh incidents of assaults reported almost every day, forcing the police to deploy additional reinforcements to check violence.

The rival camp has accused the Margao police for acting as mute spectators to the assault incidents on grounds that the assailants owe allegiance to the Chief Minister’s camp.

“No, this isn’t true. The police is trying to tackle the situation from all possible angles, including law and order problem”, he said.

Meanwhile, the Margao police have summoned all the persons involved in the assault incidents to the police station as part of the ongoing investigations.

Photo by M Prabhav

exhibits Rabindranath Tagore’s literature, besides photographs.

The fourth coach, ‘Chitrarekha’, paintings, landscape, masks, sketches, illustrations and self portraits of Tagore are on display.

Paintings by other renowned artists like Nadalal Bose, Abanindranath Tagore, Gaganendrananth Tagore, Binod Behari, Ramkinker Bej, Sunayani Devi and Sudhir Khastagir are on display in the fourth coach.

In the fifth coach, ‘Sesh Katha’, photographs of Tagore’s last journey and his last days are on display.

Poems, which he had written during the days before he passed away on August 7, 1941, are also on display. This coach also has a section called ‘Smaranika’, which is an exhibition and sale of handicrafts from Santiniketan, photo prints and handwriting of Rabindranath Tagore.

Overcharged commodities seized from canteen HERALD REPORTER VASCO, NOV 3

Officials of Weights and Measures seized packages of water bottles and soft drinks from a canteen situated outside the terminal building at Dabolim airport for allegedly overcharging on the commodities on Monday morning.

Speaking to Herald, Controller of Weights and Measures Nagesh Naik stated that a canteen, which is located outside the airport, has been accused of overcharging water bottles and soft drinks bottles.

He further informed that maximum retail price of water bottle is Rs 15, but the canteen owner used to charge Rs 20 per bottle, similarly soft drinks were overcharged by Rs 7, as it was supposed to be sold at Rs 23 per bottle.

“We have seized about 19 packets of water bottles and three packets of soft drinks in the raid,” said Naik.

He further said the canteen owner has been booked under Section 38 of Commodities Rule.

The Weights and Measures officials acted on the complaint lodged by South Goa Tourist Coaches Owners Association President Francis D’Silva.

Speaking to Herald, D’Silva said common people working at the airport uses the canteen and charging them excessive amount was not acceptable.

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Narkasur contests: Goa Police Church seeks clarity on highways alignment to ensure no slip-up this time ...tells govt to notify eco sensitive zones HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, NOV 3

HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, NOV 3

Learning lessons from last year’s explosion at Margao, Goa Police is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a safe Narkasur effigy competition across the state.

Anticipating potential communal tension on Diwali-eve, Thursday, the department has listed down various security measures and asked the Narakasur effigy competition organizers to step up precautionary measures to ward off any untoward incident.

A senior police officer said that anti-social elements trying to create communal rift on Diwali eve cannot be ruled out.

“In view of bomb blast during the narkasur competition at Margao last year and communal tension in various parts of the country, precautionary measures are put in place,” he said.

Men in uniform and plain cloth will have strict vigilance around Narakasur effigy competition venues. Right from regulating heavy traffic to arrange proper parking and keeping eye on suspicious characters, the police will be on guard.

Massive security is also expected to curb instances of pickpocketing and eve-teasing besides ensuring disciplined dispersal of crowd after the competition.

Respective Sub Divisional police officers have held meetings with Narkasur effigy competition organizers about the precautionary steps to be taken.

“We will be providing enhanced security and protection to people and materials involved at the place of narkasur. We have instructed organizers to appoint volunteers with badges and that the venue should be illuminated, along with other guidelines. Besides, we will assist the volunteers and the organizers,” North Goa Superintendent of Police Arvind Gawas told Herald.

Sanathan Sanstha has already launched fresh campaign against the event of ‘glorifying’ the demon.

“Our campaign is against glorification of Narakasur. We want that Lord Krishna who killed the demon should be glorified and not the mythological monster,” Sanathan managing trustee Virendra Marathe has said.

Marathe claimed that Narakasur competitions have mushroomed across the state and they are commercialized, which

Countermanding case: refund of bhatta money sought HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, NOV 3

Freddy Dias has requested the Administrative Judge, South Goa to direct the concerned judicial officer to refund the amount of Rs 500 which was deposited by him with the court treasury as bhatta money/charges for examination of two persons as his defense witnesses in the trial of the infamous Countermanding of Elections conspiracy case.

Dias has further urged the Administrative Judge to treat his representation as his written complaint and initiate criminal investigations against the judicial officer for depriving him of his hard-earned money and putting him in a monetary loss, besides causing him physical torture and mental anguish.

In his representation, Dias pointed out that he had deposited with the court treasury Rs 500 as the bhatta money/charges for the examination of two persons as his defense witnesses in the countermanding case, which ended in an acquittal of all the nine accused persons. “In my application dated October 6, 2010 to the JMFC, I had clearly stated that one of the witnesses Mima Almeida Gracias was not examined in the criminal case, while the other witness Adv Cleofato Almeida, who was examined on February 10, 2010, and who was required to claim his bhatta money within the stipulated period of one month, had not done so even till date. I had also clearly mentioned in the application that Adv Coutinho had verbally informed me that he is not interested in claiming the bhatta amount”, he said.

Dias said that he had visited the office of the Court on four different occasions, but every time he was sent back without the refund of his hard-earned money on one pretext or the other, particularly on grounds that the JMFC court does not have a sitting judicial officer at present.

glorifies the demon instead of the Lord.

Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) has also acted against the said competition and as protest it has forwarded a memorandum to the Chief Minister Digambar Kamat requesting him ‘to take appropriate action to stop the malpractices following the traditional burning of narkasur effigies thereby celebrating Diwali in an ideal manner as described in the scriptures.’

The Hindu-right wing has forwarded the memorandum to the Collectors of North and South Goa district also.

Thorough security arrangements are made at all major places of competition including Panjim Church square, near Saibaba temple at Mala, Diwar, Mapusa taxi stand, Usgao, Valpoi and other places. The entire security process will continue even on the festival - Diwali day on Friday.

“In North Goa, we have got additional force from Goa Reserve Police and district reserves to be deployed at Panjim, Mapusa, Ponda and Calangute. Considering the seriousness of the event, we will be holding nakabandis at strategic points without affecting traffic movement,” the officer said.

At the same time, coastal security has been asked to maintain strict patrolling along the Mandovi River besides police control room vans and respective police stations will carry out round-the-clock patrolling.

Besides, armed policemen, plain clothed personnel will also be deployed to examine the situations. Bomb Disposal Squads,

Dog Squads, Robin and Robots are also placed on two-day strict duty.

Police spokesperson Special Branch SP Atmaram Deshpande, last week told reporters that they have undertaken adequate and additional arrangements at major locations.

“We have stepped up the security at all points. All places where ‘Narakasur-effigy’ competitions will be held and others locations are under strict vigilance,” he said.

The organizers are also asked to install CCTVs at the event venue and to frisk every person and check vehicle in and around their respective locations. The entire police force including DySPs and SPs will be patrolling the state for two continuous days.

Apart from this, the organizers are also recommended noise and pollution free, Narkasur event and Diwali festival, on Thursday and Friday respectively. The authorities have given relaxation of two hours, extending from 10pm to 12-midnight allowing use of loudspeakers under noise pollution (regulation & control) rules 2000.

The memory is still fresh in the minds of the people when two Sanatan men on October 16, 2009 (Diwali-eve) were killed in the accidental blast that occurred while they were ferrying IEDs at Margao narkasur competition venue.

Although unwilling to speak its mind “until the facts are clear”, the church today demanded that the government should come out clear on the alignments for the national highways before going ahead with the project.

The National Highways Diversion Action Committee (NHDAC) protested against the widening of NH17 and NH4A demanding scrapping of existing alignment.

However, the church’s social wing, Council for Social Justice and Peace (CSJP) refused to make any commitment until the facts of the alignment is clear.

“How can we make a statement whether we are supporting the agitation or not unless we have clear details,” CSJP convener Fr Maverick Fernandes told Herald adding “we will make a proper statement only after the alignment is clear.” He further said that there is lack of information about the alignment itself.

“What we understand is the government itself does not know what the alignment is. We demand that government should come out clearly on hard facts of the alignment,” Fr Maverick Fernandes, Convenor, centre for Social Justice and peace (CSJP), said.

He said that even some of the government departments are not sure about the alignment.

CSJP has said that people of Goa have the right to participate in the development process, which is meant for their own well being.

“How can people decide in

HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, NOV 3

Fr Maverick Fernandes has demanded that the Goa government immediately notify the eco sensitive zones to protect Goa from further destruction.

He was speaking at a meeting convened by the Parish Social Apostolate Forum, Benaulim on Wednesday evening. GBA leaders Sabina Martins and Arvind Bhatikar also spoke.

In his address, Fr Fernandes said the people of Goa will not rest till the government immediately notify the eco-sensitive zones to protect Goa. “This government is fooling the people of Goa. They are granting permissions as per the 2001

plan and have not notified the 2021 plan till date. Our submission to the government is to notify the eco sensitive zones immediately”, he added.

He also came down heavily on the flying squads, saying these squads have not helped in any way to achieve the objective.

Fr Maverick pooh poohed the claims made by Chief Minister Digambar Kamat that people have voted for Congress-backed candidates in the just held Civic polls on the plank of development. “We fail to understand what development the Chief Minister is talking about when the development has only destroyed the state and has gone

against the interests of the people”, he added.

He called upon the Benaulim villagers to put pressure on their MLA to sign the representation to protect the eco sensitive zone, including the hills and water bodies through a notification. “We want to know whether the MLAs are with the people or not. If yes, they should sign on the representation”, he added.

Sabina Martins demanded that the government should issue a notification freezing all development in eco sensitive zones and to notify permission for construction based on the status decided by the village gram sabhas.

the wake of lack of information about alignment,” Fr Fernandes questioned. He said that it is not known whether national highway authority of India (NHAI) or state government has decided the alignment and which way it is going.

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Margao Lok Samiti formed to misguide people: Churchill HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, NOV 3

PWD Minister Churchill Alemao on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on the Margao Lok Samiti saying the Samiti was formed only to misguide the people of Margao during the recently held polls for the Margao Municipal elections.

The Navelim MLA also said that social activist Dr Oscar Rebello should not have dabbled in politics by addressing a meeting at Fatorda to drum up support for the candidature of Piedade Noronha in Ward No 3 of the Margao Civic body.

Alemao also did not spare Congress leaders, that certain congress leaders, including S o u t h G o a M P Fr a n c i s c o Sardinha had been attending football finals along with BJP MLA Damu Naik and Piedade Norohna in the recent past.

“I have no objections for the social activism of Dr Rebello for the cause of Goa. Politics and organizations are two different things”, Alemao told newsmen adding that he had thrown his weight behind GPCC general secretary Vijay Sardessai for supporting the cause of the poor and the downtrodden.

Asserting that the Margao Lok Samiti was formed to misguide the people of Margao, Alemao, however, said the people have realized the true colours of the Samiti and supported the candidates supported by him and Sardessai in Fatorfda.

He said though Congress leaders, including Sardinha were behind Norohna, he said that people have shown their trust and faith in him and Sardessai as evident by the poll results.

Incidentally, the PWD Minister said that Chief Minister, Digambar Kamat had told him not to

interfere in the Civic polls in Margao area, but categorically stated that he had openly supported the candidature of youth Congress vice-president Pratima Coutinho.

“Pratima is a congress leader.

She was harassed during the polls. Hence, I decided to support her candidature”, Alemao added.

Saying that the Congress is becoming strong in Goa as evident by the results of the recently held Municipal polls, Alemao gave credit to AICC general secretary in charge of Goa, B Hariprasad, GPCC general secretary Subhash Shirodkar, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat and his team.

“I can say with confidence that the Congress would retain power in the state by winning more than 25 Assembly seats in the next Assembly polls”, he added.

Samiti assures all help to MMC councillors HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, NOV 3

Margao Lok Samiti has said it will continue to strive in the field of civic issues affecting the city and will try to positively take up issues and find solutions with the cooperation and support of the City Fathers in a true people friendly manner.

Congratulating all the Councilors who have been elected to the Margao Municipal Council during the recently held Civic polls, Lok Samiti Convenor Dr Gopal P Vaidya, Joint Convenors

Dr Lanfred Da Costa and Vishnudas Vernekar said the organization trust that all the Councilors will rise above all the political prejudices and perform in the true spirit of democracy for the welfare of the respective wards in particular and Margao city in general.

“We wish to assure all its cooperation to the city Fathers in their endeavour for the betterment of the city””, the leaders said and exhorted upon the Councilors to provide a stable council

for the term.

“The problems faced by Margao are known to all. It is also known that overcoming the Civic problems is an arduous task, however, not an impossible one. A scientifically designed road map towards the sustainable development is the need of the hour. MIS offers its support and assistance in devising this road map which can be successfully adhered to only by the peoples participation in the true spirit of democracy ”, they added.

Smoke emitting from garbage fire at Assagao

Smoke emits from the burnt garbage on Assagao Plateau.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT PORVORIM, NOV 3

The garbage containing plastic and rubber waste that has been dumped on Assagao Plateau by Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) has been set on fire, emitting hazardous smoke for the last couple of days.

The smoke is not only causing discomfort to the residents of Ganeshpuri, Housing Board and Ektanagar, but it is also hazardous for health of human beings.

In a letter to the MMC chief officer, Shiv Sena has requested the council to stop burning of

plastic and waste material on the Assagao plateau.

Shiv Sena Ad-hoc committee member, Goa State, Philip D’Souza has stated that plastic plays the role of villain right from the stage of its production.

“Major chemicals that go into the making of plastics are highly toxic and pose serious threat to the living beings of all species on earth. When burned, plastic releases a host of chemicals into the air,” stated D’Souza.

“Besides hitting hard the ecosystem, some of the chemicals in plastic can cause array of mal-

Siddhanti receives Kala Bhushan Award

Siddhanti Parab receives award from Dean of Kittur Channama University, Dr Vinod Gaiakward at Belgaum-Karnataka.

HERALD CORRESPONDENT BICHOLIM, NOV 3

Siddhanti Arjun Parab (13) from Bicholim received the state level Kala Bhushan Award 2010 of Shikshak Vikas Parishad at a function held in Belgaum-Kar-

nataka on Sunday.

According to Siddhanti’s father, Arjun, the award was given at the 16th National level Educational Conference organised

by State and National Awardee Teachers Association, Shiroda.

The award was given by Kittur Channama University Dean Dr Vinod Gaikwad.

“Siddhanti was the youngest girl among the 69 awardees at the National level,” informed Arjun Parab. The award is given annually in recognition of outstanding achievements and distinguished contributions in educational, social, art, music, cultural and literacy fields.

Siddhanti bagged the prize for her excellence in Computer education and Rangoli Art. Siddhanti has various records in Rangoli, including a 4,000 sq ft Rangoli. She has also conducted about 24 Rangoli training workshops and has also excelled in Computer field at the national level.

Photo by Anil Shankhwalker

adies ranging from birth defects to cancer, damage the nervous system and also adversely affect the blood and kidneys of the human beings,” added D’Souza.

Shiv Sena has demanded immediate action into the matter

by MMC and provide relief to the residents of Ganeshpuri, Housing Board and Laxminagar and save plants, water bodies and environment from getting polluted.

Shiv Sena has also submitted copies of the letters to the Goa Pollution Board and Urban Health Center, Mapusa with a request to look into the matter.

B, C class civic bodies assured help HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, NOV 3

Urban Development Minister, Joaquim Alemao has said that the government would accord priority for revenue generation projects to make B and C class Municipalities to stand on their own legs.

He told newsmen that Class B and C Municipalities are facing problems relating to finances, adding that the government has plans to overcome the problems by working out revenue generating projects for these Civic bodies. “This will be taken up on a priority by the government.

The Class B and C Civic bodies need to be strengthened financially so that they stand on their own legs”, he added.

The Minister said that the govt would set up waste treatment plants in the remaining Civic bodies by mid-next year, adding that the treatment plants in Bicholim and Cuncolim are working satisfactorily.

Examination of Russian rape victim ends HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, NOV 3

Cross examination of the Russian woman rape victim has finally ended in the South Goa sessions court on Wednesday.

The rape victim was being cross examined by the defense for the last three days after her examination in chief.

The proceedings were held in camera in the court of Additional Sessions Judge, Vijaya Pol. Sources in the know said the Russian rape victim was crossed examined on the complaints filed her with the Colva police after the alleged incident.

With the examination and cross examination of the rape victim finally over, only a handful of prosecution witnesses, including investigating officer PI Sunita Sawant and 3-4 police officials now await examination in the court.

However, if court sources are to be believed it may take some more time for the curtains to come down on the trial as the report on the Muddemal property is yet to come from the forensic laboratory, Hyderabad.

The rape victim will also be required to appear in the court again for the identification of the clothes attached by the police during investigations.

One accused of assaulting PWD worker HERALD CORRESPONDENT PORVORIM, NOV 3

A PWD service supervisor has accused a person from Bastora of assaulting him, while he was perfuming his duties on Tuesday morning.

In his complaint, Digamber Parsekar of Mandrem told Mapusa Police that while he was attending his duties alongwith his colleagues, a resident of Bastora assaulted him, wrongfully restrained him and abused him with filthy languages.

Mapusa Police have registered the case against the accused under Sections 504, 341 and 332 of IPC. Police Sub Inspector Nitin Halarnker is investigating the case.

Assault on 65-year old woman sparks tension in Canacona HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, NOV 3

Tension gripped TembewadaBhagatwada region near CharRasta in Canacona late Tuesday night, after some persons allegedly assaulted a 65-year-old woman from Tembewada on Tuesday night.

According to Canacona Police, five persons are arrested on charges of assaults and damaging a car at Bhagatwada-Tembewada and are booked under Sections 147, 143, 323, 427 read with 149 IPC. According to reports, the incident started after a resident from Tembewada allegedly sought help of a newly elected councillor for assaulting his mother and damaging his wooden fence and entrance gate surrounding his house on Tuesday at about 10.30 pm. The councillor elect reportedly went assisted to shift the woman to the hospital.

It is learnt that on the night of declaration of election results (Monday), some miscreants reportedly damaged wooden entrance gate of house fence of the same Komarpant family at Tembewada. “As a result, a police complaint was filed against unknown persons on Tuesday morning,” informed one Ravi, member of the Komarpant family.

Sources further informed that late Tuesday night, some unknown persons reportedly broke

the entire remaining house fence of the same Komarpant family and an old woman, who came out on hearing the noise, was reportedly assaulted.

House occupant, Ravi Komarpant, told Herald that after the assault on his 65-year-old mother, Rukmini, she was taken to Community Health Centre Chaudi and was later shifted to Hospicio in Margao.

Later, the scene reportedly shifted to the residence of outgoing councillor and defeated candidate Sameer Dessai, as police informed that some persons in the middle of the night went to Dessai’s residence, allegedly

assaulted him and damaged his

car, parked in his garage.

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3 persons rescued at Arambol, Mobor HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, NOV 3

Three persons were rescued from drowning by Drishti Surf Life Team of lifeguards at Arambol and Mobor.

According to Drishti reports, Punit Bhagirath (26) from Mumbai, who was swimming along with his friend in deep waters, struggled to swim. Drishti lifeguard Rajesh Dhuri saw Bhagi-

rath struggling in the water and rushed to his rescue.

The Mumbai tourist was later brought to the shores by lifeguards Rajesh Dhuri and Tushar Kharade.

In another incident at Mobor, a Bengaluru couple, Hemant and Hema Hardikar, were rescued by Drishti lifeguards Rajendra Gaonkar and Nandesh Velip.

OHERALDO

OPINION

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O HERALD O

Freedom of the Press eroded

Vol No CX No: 278 Goa, Thursday 4 November, 2010

Spare a thought for the state

N

orth Goa Member of Parliament Shripad Naik needs a reality check. Addressing the rally opposing the proposed alignment of the national highways in Goa on Tuesday, he made the astonishing statement that Goa doesn’t need a highway corridor, as a six-lane highway has already been constructed between Kolhapur and Mangalore.

Wake up, Mr MP. Your charge that the present leaders of the Congress-NCP-MGP coalition government are keen on pushing these highway-widening projects in Goa owing to the handsome kickbacks possible in a project that is likely to cost several thousand crore rupees, is in all probability one hundred per cent correct. But that does not by any stretch of imagination mean that Goa has no need for wide, modern highways.

His line was echoed by Shiroda BJP MLA Mahadev Naik, who asked the people to continue their agitation against the “anti-people polices of the Congress”. If this is the blinkered outlook of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for Goa’s future – that the state does not need world class infrastructure because our neighbouring states already have it – there’s little wonder that the party is getting a beating at the hustings, as it did in the recent municipal polls and the Valpoi assembly by-election. The party’s leaders need to formulate a vision for Goa, rather than opposing everything merely because they are the ‘opposition’ party.

Thankfully, the other speakers at the rally were far more articulate and realistic in the positions they took. Fr Felix Lobo of the Usgao parish urged the government to understand the sentiments of the people and not build highways by destroying the houses and the people. He said: “We require highways, but they should be built with the goodwill of the people. For that, an alternate route should be considered.”

Former tourism minister Matanhy Saldanha said that highways should be built away from villages and towns, as is done in other parts of the country. Dr Oscar Rebello raised a very relevant point about the scuttling of the Regional Plan 2021, which he said, the government had put in cold storage.

In fact, the very name – National Highway Diversion Action Committee – says it all. By openly defying the unlawful imposition of Section 144 on the entire area under the Panjim Police Station, it made a very important statement; authoritarian measures cannot quell protest. Convenor of the Committee Sunil Dessai, pointed out that narrowing of highways from 60 metres to 30 metres is no solution; they must be diverted through non-populated areas. Goa needs to have the very best infrastructure possible, and it is for the state government to look to the people’s real needs by standing up to central ministers instead of kowtowing to them.

Not just highways, Goa must try to get the most appropriate and very best in all infrastructure, whether it is sewage systems in tourist areas, underground electricity cabling, ducting of utilities, a gas-based power generating station, restoration of traditional water harvesting systems, scientific garbage segregation, composting and disposal. Otherwise, the state’s future will begin to look bleaker with every passing year.

T

T

news takes a back seat to advertisements says erVeLL e MeneZeS

his is the most vital subject facing the freedom of the Press and day by day, week by week, year by year we are facing greater problems. So much so that their powers are being eroded systematically and ruthlessly. Hard-core journalism in the days of Arun Shourie and other press giants is fast becoming a thing of the past.

But Shourie too had his own agenda as time showed only too clearly. He used journalism to get into politics.

When this writer quit regular journalism in 1991, the process had already begun. Advertisements were given prime space; marketing was a new arm and few knew how it worked. You had ‘marketing wizards’ with a hidden agenda and the result was we were fighting everyone above us and below us. The editor’s role was minimized.

And operating as a news editor was no easy task.

The parameters were not marked, so it was a trial and error process, or error and more error which was more like it.

The best thing to do was to quit Indian Express after 24 years and freelance. Thankfully I managed to do that with single-minded devotion to the truth and it worked amazingly; because of my credibility my political articles were published freely. It was my greatest joy. I just could not occupy the editorial chair with my wings clipped. I am freelancing now for the last 20 years. I had asked for 10 good years but the Lord has doubled my quota, quite thankfully.

The erosion of journalistic powers took place slowly but surely. A former Times of India (TOI) journalist, Patanjali Sethi who was in charge of marketing, had a knack for getting things done his way. It wasn’t easy to have our wings clipped.

It was izzat ka sawal but we seemed to have no alternative. The right-hand pages got the prime ads; the banner heading of old was a new prime ad. Everything was topsy-turvey and no journalist worth his salt could take all this.

In its 15th anniversary Outlook has come out with a 300-odd page supplement and the document is quite revealing, virtually a collector’s item. My guru Noam Chomsky has much to say on the subject.

I first encountered Chomsky in 1992, when his film Manufacturing Consent made waves at the Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) for doc-

IT’s a steal!

he Rajiv Gandhi IT Habitat at Dona Paula became notorious when it was discovered that hardly any IT firms had been allotted plots, and that most of the allottees were real estate companies, a number of which were allegedly associated with relatives of the then Minister for IT Dayanand Narvekar, who was the main man behind the project. So is it at all a matter of surprise that Mr Narvekar now wants the project to be scrapped as soon as possible, so that all the allottees can get their money back?

Frank Moraes

Minding Our BuSineSS umentary, short and animation films. Since then this phonetics professor is arguably the staunchest critic of the United States and its policies. When asked if The New York Times claims to be liberal said, “Of course liberal here implies highly supportive of the State power, State violence and State crimes. I though, do not deny that liberal means more or less, being in favour of civil rights, social programmes, roughly what is called characteristic in much of the world.”

Chomsky says “The crisis in India is not a result of declining revenues as much as its intellectual dishonesty.” He also sprang a few surprises like, he finds the media in Pakistan more vibrant than it is in India. In the past Chomsky referrred to ‘embedded journalists’ who covered the Iraq war. There were only three independent journos

covering the Iraqi war. A dismal figure, indeed.

About journalism surviving in these days of the Internet, he is quite categorical. “I am very skeptical about that. I was in Mexico last week and Mexico mind you is a poor country. The second largest newspaper La Journal, is a very high quality newspaper; one of the best I know. It gets almost no commercial advertising because the government hates it. They survive on readership support. Why can’t this happen in a rich country,” he asks.

Says BBC correspondent Mark Tully “when I was in India in the 1960s the editor was king.

Even the proprietor Ramnath Goenka would not barge into the office of the legendary editor Frank Moraes (see photograph); so sacred was his position But all that has changed today.

Satan never sleeps

Facts of Life

L

ast night as incessant rains pounded, I saw flashes on the ceiling of my darkened bedroom as though a ghost was using fireflies to light a candle. It wasn’t funny! I was a bit shaken up. Here I was about to get off to the Land of Nod when a puff of acrid smoke blinded me for a moment. Then, there was a sound of a great thud. When I finally cleared my eyes, I spotted the Lord of Darkness himself. Satan standing before my bed!

We need three special gifts: the first is enough humility to accept the fact that there is a Devil and that it is easy for us to be taken in by him. The second is enough faith that will help us understand that we don’t have to fight alone; that our struggle is part of a greater battle, a cosmic confrontation that goes back to the beginning of Time. And the third gift is openness to our Creator’s unlimited love for us, a love stronger than death, a love that conquers all, including the Devil.

The Devil works every single day, 24 hours daily, year round. No sick leave, no vacation, no holidays, but just keeps working all the time. The worst of it is that he doesn’t retire from his job, or take a little time off for a little rest and recreation. No wonder he is

such a difficult fellow to deal with. Old Lucifer, the Prince of Darkness had his pointy tail over his shoulder and was dressed in a fiery red tux.

Me: What do you want?

Satan: You mean what brings me to you? Every now and then, I like to visit a journalist for a chat, like Don Michael, Ahmed Askari, Roy Patel, not that you are in their class.

Me: How unkind of you.

Satan: You might help me. I have to rely on chaps like to you to get my views across.

Me: What makes you select me?

Satan: I see lately you try to praise and worship Christ. You are going much too far giving testimonies and all that and are having such a field day at prayer meetings ...

Me: What is it you want me to write without getting in hot water?

Satan: Why, how evil I am and you could ask your friends to stop comparing me to the guys who chased you out from Iran and Iraq, Saddam and Khomeini. They are wimps next to me.

Me: What would you say is your biggest contribution to evil in

Letter of the Day Our fight will continue Franco Fernandes, Mapusa Civil Society under the banner of Mapusa Nagrikancho Ekvott did its best to win seats in the Mapusa civic elections, but we failed.

The reasons were many: money power; late entry; politicians nursing their votebanks professionally. We did not distribute cash or other gifts to the voters because we do not have that kind of money and it is not in our charter to indulge in such gimmicks. We did not play the communal card, but targeted the entire citizenry. The public seems to have fallen for the short term gifts not bothering about their grievances that will not be addressed. Our intention was public interest and shall remain so in future. We made a beginning and we leave it to the public to decide to join.

As an NGO, we shall continue to fight the

100 Years Ago PRIMEIRO DIARIO NAS COLONIAS PORTUGEZAS

4 November 1910 Students hail Republic

The Students of the Lyceum transversed all the street of the Capital City acclaiming vociferously the new Republic while also saluting its credo of Equality, Justice, Liberty and Fraternity.

English college for Bardez

The Italian Missionaries are proposing to commence a College with English as the medium of instruction in the District of Bardez and for the same they want to acquire suitable land.

Word of Honour demanded

The Provisionary Republican Government determined that all the Government Officers should give their printed Word of Honour that they will abide and adhere to the new Regime without any qualms.

New Governor da Costa

It is official now; the provisionary regime of Portugal has appointed Dr Couceiro da Costa to be the new Governor of the Provinces of Goa, Daman, and Diu.

anti-people forces and their actions with all the might at our disposal.

Wat-er nightmare

Kargilgate-1

Joseph Pereira, Divar

Michael Vaz, Merces

What a procedure one has to strictly follow for Water Meter testing. If I am travelling to Panaji from Diwar Island to file a complaint at St Inez PWD office, one needs to spend at least Rs500. One has to obtain a DD of Rs100 with charges of Rs35 favouring the concerned department. This has to be accompanied with an application in English, not in Konkani, although it is our official language. Can common man Aam Admi follow this lengthy procedure, when he does not have the knowledge what DD is all about? There are people who have to seek the help of agents to write this application for a price of Rs 60. Besides, matter of concern for those senior citizens who are living alone. What will be their plight? Not only this. Besides, one has to spend whole day at Panaji and lose his daily wages. Why all these formalities? Why don’t they adopt a booking system like BSNL, which is prompt and time saving? Will the concerned minister take note of the common man’s plight and act?

The Adarsh housing scam in Maharashtra has once again brought to the fore how favouritism and nepotism are part of Indian politics. A number of Maharashtra chief ministers have been exposed in the controversy. As usual, the blame game has started and each one is trying to prove his innocence in the turbid mess. A number of top military officials are also involved.

They claim they were not aware that the flats were meant for the widows of the Kargil war martyrs. Faced with this embarrassment they have agreed to return the flats allotted to them. To make matters worse the controversial Adarsh tower was built without even obtaining environmental clearance. The multi-storeyed building is housed in the coastal zone without CRZ clearance. This is a good example of how all laid-down procedures are flouted with impunity by the powers that be.

Kargilgate-2 P L Fernandes, Old-Goa Our army and defence forces are supposed to be above suspicion but recent happenings speak otherwise. The defenders of the rich and poor, alike have succumbed to these lowly acts, therefore gasping we can say ‘et tu General patri mei’ are at the lowest level of dishonesty. Connivance of top military brass (including past generals) with powerful politicians is a huge conspiracy eating into the very heart of our nation. It could not have been undertaken unless, meticulously, systematically and knowingly done by all those concerned.

After every scam or tragedy, we are noted for setting up innumerable inquiry commissions, which once launched, are like satellites circumventing the earth, no one knowing exactly, which one belongs to whom, until one day, if we are lucky, a report is released.

Kargilgate-3 S. Kamat, Alto Betim It has become de rigueur in our political system that you can go ahead with any

“Everything that The Times of India embodies ‘credibility, integrity and impartiality’, is available for a price. It sells the media platform to commercial clients. Not news to readers.”

It was Samir Jain who in 1982 changed the entire concept of journalism. He wanted only ‘happy stories’, no tragedies or disasters. Starting an ad agency 360 Degrees he sold space for news.

What’s more, other major newspapers like Hindustan Times followed that concept. In the old days one could understand lowly newspapers like the Free Press Journal resorting to combining ads with news. But today everyone has joined the elite ad/marketing club of ‘all the world is an ad hoarding’.

In one of the articles in Outlook, Pranjoy Guha Thakurta says why he quit journalism. In July 2009, a two-member sub-committee of the Press Council of India (PCI) comprising K. Srinivasa Reddy and himself was constituted to examine the phenomenon of paid news – a 36,000 word report. But it was reduced to a mere footnote and the publishers’ lobby won the day.

So much for ethics in journalism – it is a contradiction in terms.

When I rang up The Times of India to enquire why the Musharaf story was carried on the inside page, the editor (some D’Cruz I believe) passed me on to the news department. In our time the editor was responsible for whatever appeared or didn’t appear in the newspaper. Not now.

Vinod Mehta is a good editor no doubt and brings out a good weekly. I have known him since his Debonair days. He has a habit of taking his team with him, a new trait in journalism. When he edited The Independent it was the mathadi (head loaders) workers who say his exit was due to an article on former Home Minister Y B Chavan.

He has a knack of running with the hares and hunting with the hounds. When a couple of years ago I came across his advertorials (paid news), he didn’t even bother to reply. In this giant anniversary issue there are two advertorials, one on the Chagan Bhujbal family. Who would want to write about them? And every second page is a glossy ad. So isn’t it double-speak? Professing freedom of the Press but in practice doing the very opposite.

And you know it as well as I, Vinod.

corruption, but for God’s sake don’t get caught. This is the position vis a vis Ashok Chavan, the Maharasthra CM in the Adarsh Housing Society case. Now he is taking others down with him. By bringing in more people they hope to dilute their involvement. How someone come into defense land with a compound wall and a gate and complete a building of 31 stories without the active cooperation and collusion of the Defense authorities? Why was the issue of the Adarsh Housing Society raised so late and after the entire building has come up and some owners given occupation? Is this another case of lack of preparedness by our Defense authorities?

Unfair to Obama Mario Fernandes, USA ‘Obama is no Friend of India’ by one Averthanus L D’Souza (Herald, 30 Oct) makes interesting reading, but exposes the shortcomings of today’s news reporting and political analysis by our frontline ‘experts’.

Averthanus can argue about the effects of Obama’s foreign policies on India-Pakistan, but to drag Obama’s domestic issue handling into the fray is unjustified. It is understood that Obama’s policies have been classed as liberal. Perhaps the American people wanted some level of liberalism and it is wrong for Averthanus to denounce them. Obama is no enemy of the USA and to my knowledge he is even a friend of the Indians living here sent illegally by the Mickkys, the Paulos and the Pintos, by looking after their health through his liberal healthcare policies. The same cannot be

said of the Alemaos, the Ranes, the Naiks and the whole gang of 40 robbers who have police protection. How many of these can Averthanus count as friends of IndiaGoa? I suspect: zero.

Fishing in troubled waters Francis A Soares, Santa Cruz Are we, citizens of India, not entitled to work anywhere we feel in our country?

Why is the Directorate of Fisheries making it mandatory for fishermen and crew to carry identity cards issued by the department of Fisheries to produce before any security to identify that they are Indian citizens? As a fisherman along with many fishermen friends, I think that this is just another waste of public money, since these cards have to be renewed yearly. Is not the Election Commission of India identity card, national identity card or Fisherman Pass, enough proof that one is an Indian citizen?

What makes our security so sure that terrorists will come by sea? It is well known that regarding the Mumbai terror attack the terrorists had come well in advance to plan their strategy, since they knew all the ins and outs and only on the day of attack, came by sea.

Driving and talking Allwyn George, Carmona Talking on mobiles while driving has become a fashion for two and four wheeler drivers. Also students especially at Comba, Margao railway track crossings are busy on their cell phones not noticing the pass-

Marc de Souza the modern world? Abortion? Nuclear War? Pornography? AIDS? Corruption?

Satan: Peanuts. None of those. The video and TV age is on and it tends to block your thinking. You use your eyes more, but your mind less. The beauty is it distracts people from what I am really doing…

Just then our Dog, Jenny, going on 19 years strong, wagging her tail entered my bedroom and unusually started sniffing all over the place sensing danger. She dare not enter my bedroom at odd hours, but I was glad for her presence. I stretched my hand and she started pressing kisses.

Satan: Two’s company, three’s a crowd, moreover I am in a hurry. I’ll come back again. Promise you won’t tell anyone of my visit.

Me: Cross my heart.

Satan: No, not that!

When I made the Sign of the Cross on my heart, he disappeared, leaving some nasty thing on the floor-mat, which I dare not put in print.

Letters to the Editor ing trains. This trend is dangerous and has already led to loss of life. The Traffic Cell needs to create awareness among the public about dangers of talking on phones while driving. Innovative ways like encouraging people to catch offenders on camera and then post photographs on the Goa Police Facebook page need to be introduced. Advertisements in local newspapers must be released for public awareness so that habitual offenders are aware about the dangers and consequences if caught on camera if they drive while they talk.

Paths of Wisdom

Govt careless of Goa image Jose Maria Miranda, Margao Aroon Purie in India Today may have exaggerated, but there is much truth in what he says with regard to Russian mafia and the drug trade. He remarks that “Goa’s descent into crime and sleaze is partly made possible by political and official patronage”, and that “as long as politicians and officials remain partners in crime, Goa’s original glory as India’s leisure capital cannot be restored.” This is a repetition of what people have been saying in these very columns.

The Government needs to do serious introspection about the reputation that Goa is getting. It needs to act tough against the mafias and the drug trade, in particular, if it wants clean tourism to survive.

Misusing the Bible John A. Fernandes, Margao Well-meaning people often quote the Bible out of context in letters to the Herald. The Bible (from the Greek biblicos, meaning books) is a collection of ancient books and a great piece of literature. Some people often quote the Bible to prove a point when reason fails. Most people assume that every word of the Bible is inspired by God, but biblical scholars admit that it has mistakes. When studying or quoting sacred books, we should keep in mind the time, circumstances and available knowledge prevailing at the time of writing. Many blunders have arisen in history because of strict adherence to biblical texts: condemnation of Galileo (Ref: Joshua), corporal punishment (“spare the rod and spoil the child”), the superiority of men over women, the theory of evolution being false (creation of Adam and Eve) etc.

Three Kernels of Corn Three young men were once given three kernels of corn apiece by a wise old sage, who admonished them to go out into the world, and use the corn to bring themselves good fortune. The first young man put his three kernels of corn into a bowl of hot broth and ate them.

The second thought, I can do better than that, and he planted his three kernels of corn. Within a few months, he had three stalks of corn. He took the ears of corn from the stalks, boiled them, and had enough corn for three meals.

The third man said to himself, I can do better than that!

He also planted his three kernels of corn, but when his three stalks of corn produced, he stripped one of the stalks and replanted all of the seeds in it, gave the second stalk of corn to a sweet maiden, and ate the third.

His one full stalk’s worth of replanted corn kernels gave him 200 stalks of corn!

And the kernels of these he continued to replant, setting aside only a bare minimum to eat. He eventually planted a hundred acres of corn. With his fortune, he not only won the hand of the sweet maiden but purchased the land owned by the sweet maiden’s father.

And he never hungered again.

(Author unknown)

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GOA, THURSDAY, 4 NOVEMBER, 2010

S H O RT TA K E S Bloomz school tie-up

Retaining wall at Betim gives way HERALD CORRESPONDENT PORVORIM, NOV 3

Flag made by Royal Kent School as symbol of their partnership with Bloomz. L-R Aditi Agrawal,Sally Highton, Maya Agrawal, N T Joseph

PANJIM (HND): Bloomz International School, Borda has partnered with Royal Kent School, Surrey (London) as a part of the global school partnership program offered by the British Council.

The schools visit each other in order to share knowledge about each other’s working styles, culture, pupils etc which helps them give global dimension to their curriculum.

As a part of this program, the Head Teacher Sally Highton of Royal Kent School, Surrey, had come to visit Bloomz International School. “Highton was happy to see that Bloomz has a committed and caring staff who, just like at the Royal Kent, put the children's happiness and learning first. She had fun teaching the children English, drama and art, and was impressed with their high standards” said Aditi Agrawal of BIS.

A part of the retaining wall alongside the road at Walkeshwarwada, Betim which collapsed during monsoon, is posing a threat to the motorists.

Since the road is narrow, driving of vehicles has become risky, particularly during night. Residents of Walkeshwarwada have already brought the matter to the notice of the panchayat and requested it to construct the retaining wall before Diwali.

When contacted, Penha-deFranca Sarpanch Gopal Sawant said the panchayat has already prepared the estimates of the retaining wall and are submitted to the Block Development Office for approval.

“The total cost works out to Rs 2.65 lakh. As soon as the estimates are approved, tenders will be invited for the construction of the retaining wall. In the

Penha-de-Franca Sarpanch Gopal Sawant and ward member inspects the collapsed portion of the retaining wall at Walkeshwarwada.

Photo by Anil Shankhwalker

meantime, the panchayat has decided to put up fencing at the

location to prevent mishaps,” informed Sawant.

Lok Adalat organised

PANJIM (HND): Ponda Taluka Legal Services committee recently organised a mega Lok Adalat with reference to cases under Section 138 of Negotiable Instrument Act in the Court of Senior Civil Judge and JMFC, Ponda.

About 86 cases were placed before Mega Lok Adalat, comprising of Chairperson of Ponda Taluka legal services committee, Sayonara Telles Laad, Advocate D V Amonkar, a member of legal profession from Ponda and Ex-Councillor of Ponda Municipal Council, Seeta Kakodkar.

A large number of cases were disposed. The advocates and public are looking forward to holding more of such Lok Adalats for reducing the number of cases pending under Section 138 of Negotiable Instrument Act.

NSS camp inaugurated

PANJIM(HND): The NSS special Camp of Shree Damodar College was recently inaugurated by Sarpanch of Fatorpa, Ganesh Dessai, who highlighted the importance of education in influencing the behavior pattern of the students.

The main theme of the camp was ‘Health for All.’ Chief of NSS Programme, Dr Mansavi Kamat, chalked out various programmes to be undertaken during the camp and introduced the programme officers - Prof Anjali Sajilal, Prof Maria Rodrigues, Prof Maithili Naik, Prof Sumit Kumar Prof Mohan Undakotti.

The Principal, Dr I Bhanu Murthy, welcomed, the gathering.

Damania Alam of SY B.Com introduced the chief guest and the guest of honour the Panch of Fatorpa, Avinash Fatorpakar.

Prof Florence Rebello proposed the vote of thanks and Garima Vasudeva of FYBCom compered.

Hindi workshop held

GPCC President Subhash Shirodkar and South Goa MP Francisco Sardinha garlanding the portrait of Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary. Also present are Altinho Gomes, Suhasini Govekar, Vijai Pai, M K Shaikh, J T Vaz and others.

Fifth term for Colaso

COLLEM (HC):Dudhsagar Kala Kendra, Collem, will organize its 19th Narakasur contest for cultural groups of Sanvordem constituency near panchayat building on November 4 at 8.30 pm.According to the organisers, the participating groups should reach the venue before 8 pm and there should be minimum of 15 participants in the group. Shri Krishna actor is a must during effigy presentation. Interested groups may submit its entry forms along with entry fee of Rs 50 on or before November 4 before 8 pm to the organizer.

Mass for workers

HERALD CORRESPONDENT QUEPEM, NOV 3

PANJIM(HND): Corporation Bank recently organised a twoday Hindi workshop for its clerical staff at Panjim. The workshop was attended by staff members of 44 branches and zonal office of Corporation Bank.

Deputy General Manager, B B Tejappa, in his inaugural address said that the implementation of the national language in internal functioning has increased over a period of time.

He urged the staff members to make sincere efforts in implementation of the national language by doing their internal work and correspondence with the controlling offices in Hindi. During the proceeding, the staff was also informed about various provisions of the Official Language Policy of GoI and methods of implementing it. A session on operating Hindi software Unicode and Akruti was also conducted.

A quiz competition titled ‘Rajbhasha Gyan Pratiyogita’ was conducted to test the knowledge of the participants.

Manuel Colaso, a veteran politician from Quepem, has made a record for being elected as councillor to the Quepem Municipal Council for the fifth consecutive term.

Colaso was first elected to the council in 1985, the second term being in 1995, as from 1990 to 1994, municipal elections were not held.

Colaso was elected from Ward 9 in 2000 and in 2005, he was elected from Ward 8. On Monday, he was elected as councillor for the fifth time. He won from Ward 8 by a margin of 302 votes defeating Rahul Pereira.

Speed breakers at Navelim

Churchill to lay corner stone in Camurlim

PANJIM (HND): South Goa District Magistrate has notified construction of speed breakers on three separate junctions at Navelim.

Five speed breakers at Mandop-Navelim junction: Cottaco road in front of Sta Cruz Bar, 10 metres away from the Mandop junction; on Jackniband road in front of Ranjita General Store, 15 metres away from the Mandop junction; on Navelim road in front of house of Inacio D’Souza, 10 metres away from the Mandop junction; on Mandop road, 10 metres away from the junction near cross laid in the memory of Ignatius D’Souza and on Ravalfond road 15 mtrs away from the electricity pole No. MDP-01.

Four speed breakers at Nagmodm-Navelim: on Margao side road, 5 metres away from the junction near Krishna Udupi Hotel; on Navelim side road, 5 metres away from the junction, near Ave Maria Hair cutting; on Sinquelim side road, 5 metres away from the junction near Gajanan tea stall and on Telaulim side road, 10 metres away from the junction.

Two speed breakers at Butica-Navelim: on Coldem road, near Navelim junction in front of the Village Kitchen Udupi hotel, 10 metres away from the junction, at Buticas-Navelim on Coldem Navelim road, near Dream Pearl building in between house of Jude Colaco and electricity pole No. NAV/4/4-10.

Teacher accorded farewell

VALPOI (HC): Feliz Soares was accorded a warm farewell on her superannuation by the management, headmaster, staff and students of Our Lady of Lourdes High School, Valpoi.

Soares, who was appointed in 1972, had put in 38 years of her dedicated service as a teacher at Our Lady of Lourdes High School, Valpoi.

At a ceremony organised in the school hall, Soares was felicitated for her sacrifices in the field of education. She had worked sincerely and dedicated her life for the cause of education. A prayer service was also organised to highlight teacher’s achievement, which was followed by speeches and entertainment programme. Students offered a bouquet of flowers as a token of love.

The programme was graced by Manager Fr Felix Mendes, Headmaster Fr Jerard, PTA Chairman Balkrsihna Mahalshekar and PTA Treasurer Aktar Shah. Teachers Bernadette and Darshana compered the programme.

uPCOMINg EvENTS Narakasur contest

HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, NOV 3

PWD Minister Churchill Alemao will lay the foundation stone for the construction of 300 m3 OHR on November 4, at Housing Board Colony in Camurlim in Tivim Constituency at 5 pm for improvement of water supply in the village.

On the same day at 4 pm, the minister will inaugurate “Construction of six-seater Sulabh Sauchalaya at Gaonkar Wado, Camurlim also in Tivim Constituency. Tourism Minister Nilkant Halarnkar, Dipak Dhargalkar, Diana Braganza and Camurlim Sarpanch Sharad Gad will also be present on the occasion.

NSS camp underway

PANJIM (HND): NSS unit of VM Salgaocar College of Law recently inaugurated a seven-day NSS special camp, scheduled till November 5, at the Government Primary and Middle School, Advalpal, Bicholim, aimed to create legal awareness, disseminate information regarding social welfare schemes, orientation on services like 108 emergency services, etc.

The camp was inaugurated

by NSS Co-ordinator, GU, Dr Santosh Patkar.

PANJIM (HND): The Catholic Workers Group will organise the annual mass for Workers’ children on November 4 at Mary Immaculate Church, Panjim, at 1.15pm. The Mass will be organised by the Directorate of Settlements and Land records, Panjim. A Priest will be available for confessions from 12.30pm onwards. All are invited, says a press release issued here.

Deepavali at Calangute

CALANGUTE(HC): The Prabhuwada Deepavali Utsav Sameeti will organise various competitions at Calangute to mark the Deepavali celebration.

The Sameeti will organise the competitions under the leadership of its President Chandrakant Chodankar (Chanu).

On November 4 at 6 pm, Lord Krishna will be worshiped in the premises of late Mangesh Datta Shet Teli at Porba Vaddo, Calangute, followed by the Narkasur competition.

Those interested in taking part in the Narkasur competition have to be ready with the Narkasur effigies by 9 pm, as the competition will start at 10 pm. An Orchestra will also be staged. The effigy of Narkasur will be burnt at 1 am with fireworks display. On November 5 at 8 pm, there will be an Akash Kandil competition. The participants should be ready at the Shree Shantadurga Temple premises by 7.30 pm. Prizes for the Narkasur competition will also be given on the same day.

At 8.30 pm, a Fancy Dress competition will be held for limited participants. Record Dance competition will be held at 9 pm, also with limited participants. The competitions will be held in two age groups, below 12 years and above 12 years.

Those interested in taking part in the competitions may submit their names to Chandrakant (Chanu) Chodankar (president of Prabhuwada Deepavali Utsav Sameeti, PrabhuwadaCalangute). All the programmes will be held at Shri Shantadurga Temple premises, Calangute. For details, contact on 9623629527.

Diwali at Cabesa

PANJIM (HND): ‘Omkar Sanskrutik Mandal’ Cabesa, Kalapur, St Cruz will celebrate Diwali on November 7 from 6.30 pm onwards at Near Mini Dubai Shoppe, Cabesa by holding an All-Goa Fancy Dress Competition for boys and girls of junior and senior category; cash prizes will be awarded to the winners.

This will be followed by music from Orchestra ‘Star Melodies’, Vasco.

Those wishing to participate may call 9881458170/ 9923568749. There is no entry fee. All are invited, says a press release issued here.

Salvation Ministry retreats

PANJIM (HND): Br Anil of Salvation Ministry will conduct retreats on November 5 at BM Hall, Borda, Margao from 3.30pm to 6.30pm and on November 7 at Junta House, 6th floor, Swami Vivekanand Hall, Panjim, from 3 pm to 6 pm. For more information call 9763553575/ 9226387098. Salvation Ministry services are telecast on Rophe TV daily from 6 pm to 6.30 pm, says a press release.

Bakery, cookery classes

PANJIM (HND): A comprehensive course on low fat bakery and cookery classes will be conducted from November 8 by Fatima Moniz in Margao.

The course includes cakes with decoration, desserts (Hot & Cold), Pies, Tarts (Sweet & savoury), Breads, cookies, souffles, mousses and veg/non-veg dishes.

The cuisine will be Portugese, Goan, Continental, Italian, Indian etc. Eggless cooking will also be taught. For details contact 2776035 or 9370275702.

Loliem-Polem gram sabha backs agro-based unit HERALD CORRESPONDENT POINGUINIM, NOV 3

The recently held Loliem-Polem Gram Sabha hotly debated on the issue of NOC to an agrobased unit dealing with the sale of packed food packets.

The proprietor of the unit, which is located at Polem, is learnt to have taken permission from the panchayat as per law, but only one panchayat member objected towards this project, where many locals are employed.

When the debate was going on, some gram sabha members accused the panchayat member, who is objecting the project, of showing a partisan attitude towards this project for his pecuniary gains.

Former sarpanchas Mohandas Lolayker and Ajit alias Ajay Lolayekar were of the firm opinion that the food packaging unit should be given permission to run the plant as per the law in force. Elvis Fernandes accused a local, Bushan Prabhugaonkar, of halting his ‘Illegal’ piggery farm.

Prabhugaonkar stated that he had only asked information from

nSome gram sabha members accused the panchayat member, for showing a partisan attitude towards this project for his pecuniary gains.

APPOINTMENTS

the panchayat pertaining to the operation of the piggery farm and towards its closure.

APPOINTMENTS

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OHERALDO

NEWS

GOA, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2010

Yeddy set to expand ministry PTI BANGALORE, NOV 3

Seeking to downplay the decision to shelve ministry expansion plan at the last minute, Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa today said it was due to delay in finalising the names and he would soon set a new date for the exercise.

"Due to delay in finalising the names of those to be inducted into the ministry, I had to cancel today's swearing in. I will set a new date and am sure to expand the ministry", he told reporters here.

The Chief Minister said he would discuss the ministry expansion issue soon with party higher-ups.

Yeddyurappa, who recently survived a trust vote in the assembly, had decided to fill up four of the six vacant ministerial posts, but called it off after protests from some partymen.

BJP's Chief Whip in the Assembly D N Jeevaraj had quit his post on Nov 1, apparently unhappy with the fact that he may not find a slot.

A section of partymen had also opposed rewarding lone independent Varthur Prakash and Narasimha Naik, rebels turned loyalists, ignoring the claims of senior legislators.

Meanwhile, state unit BJP President K S Eshwarappa indicated the ministry expansion might take place either before Deepavali or soon after that.

Varthur Prakash, one of the MLAs who was tipped to take oath as minister today, met Yeddyurappa at his official residence to discuss the issue.

LeT men used Indo-Pak match as cover for recce PTI NEW DELHI, NOV 3

The handler of American-born Lashker-e-Taiba terrorist David Headley carried out a reconnaissance here when he came to the Capital in 2005 on the pretext of watching a Indo-Pak cricket match, according to an investigation report.

Headley while giving this information during questioning by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) reportedly said his handler Sajid Majid along with another LeT terrorist Abdur Rehman Hashim alias Pasha had visited India using the one-day match in 2005 as a cover.

The match, which was played on April 17, 2005, was historic since the then Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf was among the VVIP spectators along with Prime Minister Manmohan

Naidu raps Cong on ‘silence’ at AICC session PTI HYDERABAD, NOV 3

BJP MP and senior party leader M Venkaiah Naidu today criticised the Congress for its "complete silence" at the AICC session on burning issues that the country has been facing.

"Self praise, accusation, running away from responsibility and misleading the common man were the four-point formula adopted

by Congress in its AICC session," Naidu told reporters here.

The Congress had no issues to discuss in its session as it has totally failed to control prise rise, curbing of terrorist violence and Naxal menace.

Singh. India had lost the match by 159 runs.

"Sajid, of course did not reveal anything about this visit to me.

However, Abdur Rehman had given a detailed narration of this visit to India in April 2005," Headley was quoted as saying in the 106-page report of the NIA. This report, which has been prepared after nearly 34-hours of questioning over a period of one week in Chicago, quoted Headley, the PakistaniAmerican who carried out reconnaissance of all the targets of 26/11 Mumbai strikes, as saying that Sajid and Rehman crossed into India through Wagah border.

The duo spent some time in Delhi during which they had carried out a recce of some places including National Defence Col-

lege here and had "possibly gone to the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun," Headley told his interrogators.

"On their way back, Abdur Rehman recollected that Sajid was extremely ner vous at Wagah gate," Headley said while replying to questions by NIA. India secured an Interpol Red Corner Notice against both Sajid and Abdur Rehman recently for their role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror strikes.

The 34-year-old Sajid has been with Lashker-e-Taiba outfit for nearly 16 years and according to Headley, he stays near the airport in Lahore, the Lashker terrorist said, adding that Sajid was arrested in Dubai once and could get out using his "lashker connections."

f r o m pa g e

1

5-star hotels

is only the Ministry of Environment and Forest and not anyone else,” the official stated.

On the vacation beach complexes, he stated, “these are the houses of the traditional fishermen who have extended their houses to earn some money by renting these out. Do you expect us to demolish these?”

Narkasur

Trial is being conducted against the four accused — Vinay Talekar, Vinayak Patil, Dhananjay Ashthekar and Dilip Mangaonkar – after they were chargesheeted by the National Investigating Agency (NIA).

The NIA, however, is yet to file a chargesheet against the other two accused, Prashant Ashthekar and Prashant Juvekar, who were arrested in the same case. Two other accused are still at large.

Diwali festivities

Indian Meteorological Observatory Goa in-charge K V Singh confirmed that the south-west monsoons have already withdrawn from Goa coast.

Singh said that due to low pressure belt in Bay of Bengal and upper air circulation off Karnataka coast, the State might witness the showers.

“Many parts of the State are likely to witness moderate to heavy showers,” he predicted.

The Met Department said that North East Monsoon has already begun in the country and it’s raining in the States of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka.

The South-West monsoon which hit Goa in June, this year remained till October 29, with department recording 132 inches or rainfall for the season (June-September).

Mickky

decide for me. I have the capability of being in any party and take it to greater heights.”

When contacted to know his views on what he felt after talking to both the legislators and the party’s office bearers, Bhinsale replied, “I have nothing to say to the media for now until I submit my report to my supremo Sharad Pawar.”

Bhinsale has been in Goa since yesterday holding discussions to gauge the situation that arose after the recent spat between the two legislators.

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GOA, THURSDAY, 4 NOVEMBER, 2010

Americans vote against Obama’s party, Republicans take House PTI WASHINGTON, NOV 3

Dealing a body blow to President Barack Obama, US voters frustrated over his economic policies on Wednesday delivered a stunning defeat to his Democratic Party handing control of the House of Representatives to opposition Republicans, who also made big gains in the powerful Senate.

Days before his maiden visit to India, Obama tasted defeat at the US mid-term polls, seen as a referendum on his economic policies, that had promised recovery to the recession-hit American economy.

The Democrats managed to maintain their hold in the Senate but with reduced majority.

Millions of Americans voted on Tuesday for all the 435 seats in the House of Representatives; 37 of the 100 Senate seats, 37 State Governors, besides a large number of State and local elections.

In the House of Representatives, the Democratic Party, before the polls, had 235 seats, while the Republicans had 178, with two vacancies. In the 100-member Senate, the Democrats had 59 seats, while the Republicans had 41.

While many results of the polls were still awaited, the Republicans were projected to get 230 seats in the House of Representatives, a gain of as many as 57 seats; while Democrats’ tally was projected to reduce drastically to 164.

In the 100-seat Senate, the Democrats managed to retain control with 51 seats, with Republicans closing the gap with 46 seats as they gained six Senate seats from the Democrats.

In the elections held for governorship in 37 States, Democrats could win 14, losing nine of them; while the Republicans entered the Governor’s mansions in 27 States, including in South Carolina where IndianAmerican Nikki Haley emerged victorious, gaining eight States.

38-year-old Haley scripted history by becoming only the second person of Indianorigin to be a Governor of an American state after Bobby Jindal of Louisiana. Haley received 52 per cent of votes against her Democratic rival Vincent Sheehan who polled 46 per cent.

Six other Indian-origin candidates in the fray for the House seats suffered defeats in the polls.

As the election results became clear, Obama phoned Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and the likely new House Speaker John Boehner.

They had a brief but pleasant conversation, according to Boehner’s aides. They also discussed working together to focus on top priorities of the American people, which Boehner has identified as creating jobs and cutting spending. Boehner thanked the President for the call.

Obama, who is to embark on a 10-day four-nation Asia tour beginning with India from November 6, also called the current House Democratic leadership, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Majority Leader Steny Hoyer.

The White House said Obama told the Republicans that he is looking forward to working with them “to find common ground, move the country forward and get things done for the American people.”

In one of the biggest losses for Democrats, the House Budget Committee Chairman John Spratt was defeated in South Carolina and Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton, a 17-term incumbent, also had to bite the dust in the polls.

UK panel questions annual cap on migrants PTI LONDON, NOV 3

A key parliamentary committee chaired by Indian-origin Labour MP Keith Vaz has said that the annual cap on the number of migrants from India and other non-EU countries would make little difference to the David Cameron government’s objective to cut immigration.

The Home Affairs Select Committee said in a report that the proposed annual cap on immigration due to come into effect in April next year will cover less than 20 per cent of long-term migrants to Britain.

The controversial annual cap is already preventing British employers from recruiting the required skills that are not available within the EU. Besides employers, the cap has also been opposed by members of the Cameron government, including Business secretary Vince Cable.

The report adds that the cap will make little difference to overall immigration and may do

serious damage to Britain’s knowledge economy.

The report warns that the proposed cap has triggered widespread concerns that it will hamper business and damage science and universities, and quotes evidence from eight Nobel prize winning scientists of the potential damage to Britain’s science base.

The Nobel laureates told the MPs that it was a sad reflection on national priorities that the cap would exempt international footballers but not elite scientists or engineers.

“We consider it totally illogical that professional sportspeople should be exempted from the cap but elite international scientists are not,” conclude the MPs. The coalition government is committed to reducing the level of net migration into the UK – those coming to work or study minus those going to live abroad – down from “hundreds of thousands to tens of thousands” by the time of the next election in

May 2015.

“We are concerned that the proposed cap not only will make little difference to immigration overall, it may also damage the UK’s knowledge economy,” it said.

It adds that committee members are particularly concerned about the impact on overseas students.

Vaz said: “We were particularly concerned about the potential effect on international students.”

“Our evidence underlined their crucial importance to the cultural and intellectual life, as well as finances, of UK educational institutions”.

He added: “The government should direct its efforts to tackling those who abuse the system – bogus colleges and visa overstayers – rather than penalising legitimate students.”

Labour’s immigration spokesman, Phil Woolas, said: “The cap is the worst of both worlds – it doesn’t control immigration but it does damage our economy and universities.”

10-yr-old gives birth in Spain AGENCIES MADRID, NOV 3

A 10-year-old girl has given birth in southern Spain and authorities are evaluating whether to let her and her family retain custody of the baby, an official said on Tuesday. The baby was born last week in the city of Jerez de la Frontera, said Micaela Navarro, the Andalusia region’s social affairs minister.

Navarro told reporters the father of the baby is also a minor, and both the mother and the baby were in good health. Her department declined to give details, including the sex of the baby, but said authorities do not consider this a case of rape and that no criminal investigation is under way.

Under Spanish law, having consensual sex with someone under age 13 is classified as child abuse, an official with the Spanish Justice Ministry in Madrid said. But this particular case is complicated by the fact that the father of the baby is also a minor and it is not clear if he could be charged, the official said.

Thai villagers wade through water on flooded town of Hat Yai city, Songkhla province, southern Thailand, on Wednesday.

Tourists and residents were trapped by floodwaters caused by heavy rains.

PML-N steps up campaign against Pakistan govt PTI ISLAMABAD, NOV 3

Pakistan’s main opposition PMLN has claimed that the PPP-led government can be ousted through the third option of an “in-house change” available in the Constitution, a day after Premier Yousuf Raza Gilani ruled out the possibility of mid-term poll or imposition of martial law.

Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, the Leader of Opposition in the National Assembly or lower house of Parliament and one of the most vocal critics of the PPP-led government, has claimed that there is a “third course” for changing the government – an in-house change that would be allowed by the provisions of the Constitution.

After a PML-N MP advocated the dissolution of Parliament for holding fresh polls yesterday, a visibly annoyed Gilani ruled out the possibility of mid-term elections and imposition of martial law during a speech in the National Assembly.

Gilani accused those desiring the removal of his government

South Korea fires warning shots, capital on alert REUTERS SEOUL, NOV 3

An anti-terror drill takes place at Incheon International Airport in South Korea, on Wednesday head of the G-20 Seoul Summit set for November 11-12.

US, UK and Australia warn of Philippine danger REUTERS MANILA, NOV 3

The United States, Britain and Australia have warned of a heightened risk of terrorist attacks in the Philippines, with Australia saying there were reliable reports that attacks may be imminent in the capital, Manila.

The Philippine government did not see an immediate threat but the advisories were being taken seriously, said Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said.

The three travel advisories were dated November 2 and said possible targets could in-

cluded places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers, such as airports and shopping malls, and advised citizens to exercise a high degree of caution.

“Terrorist attacks, including bombings, are possible any time, anywhere in the Philippines, including in Manila,” the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs said in its notice.

“We continue to receive credible reports indicating terrorists are planning attacks against a range of targets, including places frequented by foreigners ... Reliable reports indicate that

terrorist attacks may be imminent in Manila.”

The British and US authorities said terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate and could happen in Manila.

But the Philippine military said it did not have any similar information.

“There is no imminent threat, there is no information which says there is an impending attack. And we certainly would like to allay fears of all of these possibilities,” militar y spokesman Brigadier General Jose Mabanta said in a television interview.

South Korea’s navy fired warning shots to drive away a North Korean fishing boat at a maritime border on Wednesday, the second incident in six days, jangling nerves in Seoul ahead of next week’s G20 summit.

The South Korean capital, about 100 km (60 miles) south of the demilitarised zone, is on heightened alert ahead of the summit over concerns P yongyang may try to create an incident to embarrass its rival.

Washington has pressed Beijing to use its influence over the North not to create an incident in the run up to the meeting, and the South Korean President Lee Myung-bak told reporters in Seoul the North was one of the summit’s main security concerns.

The North this week dismissed reports it would be a “provocateur”, but in the past it has staged incidents around big international events in the South.

A military officer said South Korea fired 10 warning shots to force the North Korean vessel to retreat early today after crossing into its waters off the west coast near where one of the South’s navy vessels was sunk earlier this year.

The officer said the shots

were fired after repeated loudspeaker broadcasts were ignored. It was not clear why the vessel crossed the Northern Limit Line (NLL) and why it remained in southern waters for nearly two hours.

It was the first time in seven years that the South has fired warning shots to force a fishing boat to retreat.

South Korean authorities have ramped up security for next week’s G20 summit with 10,000 participants, including 32 heads of government and leaders of international organisations, expected in Seoul.

Security forces have been put on high alert, anti-aircraft missiles are at the ready, shipping and air routes are under heightened surveillance and airport screening increased.

The North has carried out provocations in the past to coincide with high-profile international events in the South, and analysts have said the North's young leader-in-waiting, Kim Jong-un, may seek to burnish his credentials with a hostile act.

“The South Korean government is looking at (various moves that can be taken by) North Korea and terrorist groups and making thorough preparations,” Lee told a news conference.

Fatwa brings out deep divisions in Saudi society UNI DUBAI, NOV 3

A recent fatwa banning women cashiers in Saudi supermarkets has brought to the fore the deep divisions within the Saudi society on emancipation of women.

There were a flurry of letters to the dailies both attacking and supporting the fatwa, and it was apparent that the conservative Saudi society is not at all that ready for the slow but sure reforms King Abudullah has set in motion.

“Sad that women of Saudi cannot supplement their family income by working”,

lamented a reader who added that his wife ended up not buying any cosmetics from a shop as it was manned by male employees and she did not feel comfortable. He felt it was bad publicity for Islam which stood for progress.

But others disagreed. “In the land of prophet it is the duty of true Ulemas to ensure Allah’s commands are not violated by few western agents: wrote an angry reader who added “I think Saudies are very happy and it is a land mark fatwa for all Muslims.”

For every letter that backed the de-

c i s i o n t h e re w a s a n o t h e r w h i c h trashed it. “Doctors, Nurses, Air Hostess, House maids..... all these classes mingle with men. Does it mean they also stay away from their job? Are we going back to primitive ages?” lamented one reader.

Ahmed disagreed: “They are doing nothing but aping west... why don’t they see they simply exploit women in the name of emancipation.” The best place for any woman is their home.

Those who does not have home and guardian to take care can work for their

survival,” said another reader writing in Arab News.

A reader cited the life of Prophet to support freedom for women. “In the time of the Prophet women played a role in everything... Even on the war front..

Men even went to the wife of the Prophet, to ask questions.... Wake up men...women are ready to do everything,” he wrote.

There were nearly a hundred letters commenting on this single issue which indicated that the day women can drive in the Kingdom was still sometime away.

of being involved in a conspiracy against Pakistan.

All those seeking the dissolution of the National Assembly and calling for mid-term polls are actually trying to tear the country apart and derail democracy, he said.

Shortly after Gilani made the remarks, PML-N leader Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan told reporters: “The Prime Minister in his speech has talked about two (possible) ways of the government’s ouster but he did not mention the third option of an in-house change that is available in the Constitution.”

Khan contended Gilani had deliberately avoided mentioning the third option.

During an appearance on a talk show on a TV news channel, Khan said Gilani would not “remain Prime Minister even if one ally quits (of the PPP-led coalition government).”

He claimed that Gilani’s remarks reflected his frustration because of criticism of the government’s policies coming from within the PPP. If the situation remains the same, Gilani would not be able to stop the change even by shouting to the contrary from the roof of the National Assembly, Khan said.

Gilani’s annoyance with PMLN leaders calling for mid-term elections in recent days was also reflected in three official releases issued by the Prime Minister’s office yesterday. All the statements quoted Gilani as saying that the PPP would not let anyone derail democracy.

During a meeting with Senate Chairman Farooq Naek, Gilani said Pakistan had already suffered heavily at the hands

of dictatorial regimes on account of their short-sighted policies and the current government had worked hard to put the system back on the rails because progress is “unimaginable in the absence of representative institutions.”

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Iron ore exports may dip 32% HERALD BUSINESS DESK PANJIM, NOV 3

Iron ore export from India is likely to decline 32 per cent this year, due to a number of tightening measures by various state governments, says an estimate by the Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI).

It said export during the current financial year would plunge to 80 million tonnes (mt) as against 117 mt in the previous year.

Holding various state governments responsible for taking "uncalled for" measures, FIMI advisor S B S Chouhan said, "All actions are temporary, which will be revoked soon."

Two months after the Karnataka government’s ban on iron ore movement out of the state, the government of Goa started searching premises of

mining companies on royalty evasion allegations. As a result, a majority of small mining firms here have either reduced movement of ore or halted work. Also, the government has started questioning miners thoroughly before issuing any transport permit.

Close to 45% of India’s iron ore exports come from 103 operational mines in Goa. About 80 per cent of exports from India of iron ore comes from these two states. Almost 90 per cent of the total shipment to China is of low-grade iron (fines), not used in India because of the abundance of high-grade ore here. Also, the state, for the first time, has steadily started adhering to the Coastal Zone Regulation Act, which restricts mining.

Mining companies in Goa have also been affected by a

lack of vessels for transporting the product. About half the 400-odd barges running between Goan ports are currently on annual maintenance.

CHINA RESUMES However, the favourable development is that China has again started buying low-grade iron ore from India, after six months of suspension. Haresh Melwani, CEO of H L Nathurmal & Co, a Goa-based mining and exporting firm, cautioned that Chinese buying could be temporary, for stockpiling. The Chinese government is set to announce its next Five-Year Plan on November 12.

Experts believe emission targets may be made stringent, thereby reducing steel production and, so, ore buying. Goan mining companies depend largely on low-grade ore exports to Chinese mills.

As of now, China plans to produce 700 mt of steel next year, compared to 600 mt during the current year and 534 mt in the previous year. As a rule, 1.3 tonnes of high-grade ore is required to produce a tonne of steel. The requirement for the low-grade variety would be higher.

"The infrastructure deficiency is gradually being overcome now, with road-building to nearby ports," said Glenn Kalavampara, secretary, Goa Mineral Ore Exporters’ Association.

As a result of the Chinese demand revival, prices of lowgrade ore have risen sharply in one month, with fines of 58 per cent iron content being quoted at $100 a tonne, up from $80 per tonne, and the 54 per cent iron grade is up from $54 a tonne to $60 a tonne.

FedEx to acquire AFL, Unifreight PTI NEW DELHI, NOV 3

Global cargo firm FedEx today announced it will acquire Indian logistics company AFL and its affiliate Unifreight India and complete the transaction by February next year.

"This acquisition will give FedEx a more robust domestic ground network and added capabilities in India.

FedEx expects that this transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions, will close in the third fiscal quarter which ends February 2011," a company statement said here.

FedEx officials did not reveal how much the acquisition deal was worth.

CII, MSME hold meet on IPR

Passengers up 10% on IC coded flights PTI MUMBAI, NOV 3

Air India today said that its IC coded flights (erstwhile Indian Airlines) have clocked a 10% growth in October as compared to the same period in the previous year.

Besides, the load factor of these flights has also gone up to 69.17% as against 67.7% in October 2009, a company press release said here.

The average number of passengers flown daily on IC coded flights stood at 28,073 in October this year as against 25,255 passengers carried in the same period of last year, it said.

The increase in passenger carriage has been achieved as a result of the marketing efforts and a number of initiatives undertaken in the recent past in the form of various schemes.

In September this year, Air India launched its 'Happy Hours' scheme which offers an additional discount of 5% over and above the 10% discount for all bookings made on the Air India website between 1201 hours and 0400 hours, the company said.

Dr Rajananda Desai, director health, Govt of Goa, addressing the participants. From left to right are Shilpi Jha, CII CO, Arun Naik, president GPMA, Naveen Kapoor, chairman CII Goa Council, KRK Prasad, MSME-Di, Cmde N Venugopal, Advisor CII Goa. HERALD BUSINESS DESK PANJIM, NOV 3

Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in collaboration with Ministry of MSME organised a 2-day CII-MSME-Workshop on Role of IPR to enhance business of SMEs: Focus Clusters Drug & Pharma for MSME, at Panjim, recently.

This was the first one in the series of 4 workshops to be conducted all over India in the next two months.

The objective of the programme is to make the industries aware about the intellectual property system or the protection it can provide for their inventions, brands, and designs. The relevance of intellectual property rights in day-to-day business, high costs associated with obtaining and enforcing IP rights.

Naveen Kapoor chairman CII Goa Council welcomed the gathering and mentioned that the workshop is a curtain raiser for all efforts CIIMoMSME initiatives on capacity building on IPR in the country.

Arun Naik, president, Goa Pharmaceutical Manufacturer's Association (GPMA) said that SMEs form the backbone of the Indian economy with a sizable contribution to GDP, employment generation, export performance, and achieving sustainable national economic development. SME’s regularly use and create a great deal of IP and therefore should systematically consider the steps required for protecting, managing and enforcing it, so as to get the best possible commercial results from its ownership.

SMEs have to be globally competitive because their products are either exported or has to compete with very high quality products in the domestic markets.

Delivering the keynote address the chief guest, Dr Rajananda Desai, director health, directorate of health services, Govt of Goa appreciated the effort of CII & MoMSME in organising these kind of workshop and also highlighted the importance of Intellectual Property (IP) especially in pharmaceutical sectors.

The technical sessions were delivered by Ashwini Khandolkar, Advocate–IPR and Prof Shaber Ali, V M Salgaocar Law College Goa. The sessions focused on detailed awareness on IP Issues with Insight into

National & International IP Protection, enforcement of IP, creation of IP and dissemination of IP with the example of case studies.

During the Technical session the participants got an opportunity to interact with the speakers and get the practical feedback on their queries.

The workshop also saw a discussion on important topics like procedures for registration of IP, IP Audit, IP valuation and IP Risk management. The speakers were Nikhil Sharma, group manager, Evalueserve, Nilesh Shirodkar, advocate-TM and patents, Amit Palekar (LLM in IPR from Goa University), Advocate, Jagdish Prabhudesai, advocate and president, S Goa, district consumer court gave an insight into attitude of Indian judges for IP.

Essel Propack to expand Goa facility

HERALD BUSINESS DESK PANJIM, NOV 3

Essel Propack, part of the Essel Group, is the world’s biggest player in laminated tubes, which are used for various products like toothpastes, ointments and creams. Essel also produces plastic tubes, which are used for premium FMCG products, and flexible packaging, which includes sachets and packets for wafers and biscuits.

For the quarter ended September 30, excluding the sale of its medical devices business last December, Essel’s consolidated revenues rose 17% to Rs327.22 crore and net profit grew 160% from Rs 5.18 crore to Rs13.46 crore. Vice-chairman and managing director Ashok Goel speaks about the company’s capacity expansion plans and the recovery in its overseas markets.

How much do exports contribute to your business?

We have plants all over the world for tubes, which cater to the local markets but we do export raw material for the tubes, which is laminates. They are supplied to all our plants across the world only from India and China.

What kind of capex do you

Maharashtra-based Jain Irrigation Systems today said it has entered into an agreement to acquire an 80 per cent stake in UK-based Sleaford Quality Foods Ltd (SQFL), an industrial food ingredients supplier.

It, however, did not mention the price of the acquisition.

The acquisition will help Jain Irrigation's food division to have a direct access to a large market with value-added products, a press release issued here stated.

Sleaford Quality Foods, a

supplier of food ingredients to the food industry, has been in the business for more than 40 years and its product range covers a large spectrum of food ingredients including dehydrated vegetables, spices, herbs, dehydrated fruits, soup mixes, pulses and canned vegetables, among others.

Sleaford Quality Foods has a nation-wide distribution and strong sales force and sells its products to multinationals and other food companies under its own brand name or private labels.

Ahead of CIL debut, Sensex climbs 120 pts on ‘Dhanteras’ PTI MUMBAI, NOV 3

Stock market benchmark Sensex climbed 120 points today on the auspicious occasion of ‘Dhanteras’, and ahead of Coal India’s debut tomorrow, to close at its highest level in three weeks on strong capital inflows.

In sync with the firm global sentiment, the Bombay stock Exchange’s 30-share sensitive index settled the day higher by 120.05 points, or 0.59 per cent, at 20,465.74— its best close since October 14, when the index had ended at 20,497.64.

The acquisition brings the domestic major one step closer to market, with an opportunity to enter into the large ethnic food market in the UK and possibility of addition of new products in Jain's food division product range, the release said.

"We are very pleased to be involved with Sleaford Quality Foods," Jain Irrigation's MD, Anil Jain, said.

Jain has a call option for acquiring the balance 20 per cent stake based on earn-out model over a period of four-years, the release said.

Aban Offshor, 825, 833.45, 816, 820.05 Abb Ltd., 873, 879, 855, 860.25 Abg Shipyard, 479.05, 484.4, 458.8, 471.9 Acc Limited, 1070, 1093.8, 1068, 1083.25 Adani Enterp, 772.8, 772.8, 744.5, 749.8 Aditya Birla, 847.8, 847.8, 832.55, 835.05 Allahabad Ba, 260.7, 262.5, 255.6, 257.65 Alstom Proje, 781.8, 801.7, 781.8, 791.15 Ambuja Cemen, 149.85, 153.8, 149.25, 150.85 Andhra Bank, 183.05, 185, 180.1, 181.5 Ashok Leylan, 76.25, 76.9, 74.5, 75.3 Asian Paints, 2822, 2822, 2681.95, 2694.9 Axis Bank Li, 1528.15, 1543.6, 1528, 1536.1 Bajaj Hindus, 127.1, 128.95<None>, 126.2, 126.8 Bank Of Baro, 1035.95, 1043, 1028, 1033.6 Bank Of Indi, 510.25, 513.4, 502.6, 504.3 Beml Limited, 1104.2, 1147, 1104.2, 1128.95 Bharat Elect, 1689.85, 1752, 1656.6, 1739.5 Bharat Forge, 377.3, 380.9, 373.4, 374.7 Bharat Petro, 777.7, 777.7, 760.1, 765.6 Bharti Airte, 331, 333.7, 327.05, 328.4 Bhel, 2470, 2514.9, 2465.55, 2484.45 Bhushan Stee, 525, 531.6, 519.15, 521.65 Biocon Limit, 428.35, 437.3, 422.6, 432.6 Bombay Dyein, 621.1, 630.6, 615.6, 618.3

"Sleaford's commitment to produce high-quality products coupled with its excellent reputation for customer service will greatly help in opening-up a large opportunity for our food processing division," he said.

"We endeavor to add value in Sleaford by providing large source base from India and other parts of the world where Jain Irrigation has its strong presence," Jain said.

No major changes are planned regarding personnel and the management leadership of the business, the re-

Bosch Limite, 6400, 6499, 6320, 6373.65 Brigade Ente, 135.3, 136.45, 134.5, 135.1 Cairn India, 330, 333.6, 328.25, 330.1 Canara Bank, 743.3, 756.3, 742.65, 745.8 Central Bank, 235.15, 236.95, 232.05, 233.1 Century Text, 518, 523.5, 514, 516.55 Cesc Ltd, 375, 393.25, 372.5, 379.5 Chambal Fert, 87, 98.3, 87, 92.45 Chennai Petr, 247, 248.3, 244.55, 247.5 Cipla Ltd, 353.8, 353.8, 345.45, 347.25 Colgate Palm, 885, 895.35, 881.1, 887.2 Container Co, 1323, 1329.8, 1305.15, 1325.7 Crompton Gre, 331, 334, 321, 328.7 Cummins Indi, 800, 805, 795.1, 797.6 Dabur India, 100.25, 100.8, 99.1, 99.35 Deccan Chron, 136.15, 145.6, 135.5, 140.85 Dish Tv Indi, 59, 64, 58.6, 62.7 Divi’s Labor, 700.2, 708, 695, 697.45 Dlf Limited, 352.5, 355.4, 346.7, 348.85 Dr. reddy’s, 1684, 1710, 1684, 1695.4 Edelweiss Ca, 64.85, 64.85, 62.5, 63.2 Educomp Solu, 555, 559.2, 546.55, 548.9 Eih Limited, 123.75, 123.75, 121, 122.2 Engineers In, 351.95, 357, 345.5, 346.75 Essar Oil Lt, 157.75, 157.9, 153.05, 153.85

lease said.

"Jain is the perfect partner for our business. In addition to its strong product supply support, it brings excellent agricultural and food processing expertise to help improve the success of the business," the UK company's Managing Director, James Arnold, said.

Jain Irrigation is a pioneer company in water creation, sourcing, storage structures, water distribution, and water conservation devices like micro-irrigation systems. It also develops high-tech agri-in-

Essar Shippi, 119, 119, 113.1, 113.75 Exide Indust, 148.65, 163.4, 148.65, 162.8 Federal Bank, 496.5, 498.8, 488.1, 490.2 Financial Te, 1040, 1045.55, 1015.35, 1038.9 Gail (india), 491.1, 496.8, 482.25, 486.6 Gammon India, 196.65, 203.8, 192.3, 195.5 Glaxosmithkl, 2244.8, 2257.05, 2205, 2220.1 Glenmark Pha, 367.85, 373.9, 360.8, 367.85 Gmr Infrastr, 53.7, 54.05, 53.2, 53.35 Godrej Indus, 220.05, 221.85, 216.5, 217.55 Grasim Indus, 2370, 2415, 2370, 2401.45 Great Offsho, 384.8, 389.95, 381.15, 382.45 Gtl Infra.Lt, 45.2, 45.45, 44.8, 44.95 Gujarat Mine, 137.15, 141.3, 137.15, 139.55 Gujarat N R, 61.2, 62, 60.65, 61.1 Gujarat Stat, 115.8, 117.45, 114.55, 116.8 Gvk Pow. & I, 43.8, 44.45, 43.5, 43.7 Hcl Technolo, 403, 410.45, 403, 406.1 Hdfc Bank Lt, 2361, 2371.9, 2351.05, 2362.25 Hdfc Ltd, 707, 718.4, 704, 715.95 Hero Honda M, 1853, 1878, 1853, 1867.65 Hindalco in, 216.65, 220.1, 216.65, 218.9 Hindustan Co, 61.75, 62.5, 61.5, 61.65 Hindustan Ma, 71.9, 81.5, 71.05, 75.05 Hindustan Pe, 501, 502.7, 489.1, 490.6

something and show it to them.

Is Q3 normally your best quarter?

Yes, it is. This year it would be even stronger.

How are the overseas markets doing?

In China for a short period there was a blip. Europe has kind of bounced back in terms of offtake. US was sombre particularly in March-April, after that it has kind of stabilised, at least for us.

Is India your biggest market?

India and China are our biggest markets, in terms of quantity.

In terms of revenues, India would again be the biggest, about 30% of our global revenues and China would be next.

Are there any acquisitions on the cards?

If you are talking of this financial year, I would say no but you never know.

But are you on the lookout?

We are constantly scanning the horizon. But we could do some different kinds of things which we can’t talk about right now.

What about margins in your business?

Our global average is about 1819%. In India it’s 20%.

Tata DoCoMo launches 3G PTI NEW DELHI, NOV 3

Tata Teleservices, which has Japanese firm DoCoMo as partner, today launched 3G mobile services in nine circles, enabling subscribers to access high speed Internet and video telephony. With this, Tata DoCoMo became the first private telecom firm to launch 3G mobile services in the country.

Two state owned firms -BSNL and MTNL -- had launched the services more than a year ago. Tatas had bagged 3G spectrum in nine circles of Kerala, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh (including

Jain Irrigation to buy 80% in Sleaford Quality Foods PTI MUMBAI, NOV 3

have for this year and how much has been spent?

About $18 million and 60% of it has been spent. In China we have opened two new plants for tubes. In India we have expanded or are in the process of expanding all our plants.

We have six of them for tubes.

Our biggest expansion would be in Goa and Wada (in Thane district). And we have two facilities for flexible packaging in Pondicherry and Uttarakhand.

Are there any fundraising plans?

No, we don’t need to raise money.

How’s the response to your relatively new product Etain been?

Etain is an environmentallysustainable product, which we introduced a year-and-a-half back. About 35-40% of the plastic used in it is consumer-recycled or industry-recycled.

There have been more talks than sales. It’s more expensive than normal tubes.

Any more new products coming up?

That’s a continuous process.

Do you develop products primarily in response to demand from your clients?

Yes, but we also come up with

puts for farm productivity increases like high-quality planting materials, greenhouse cultivation and improved cultivation practices such as ultra high-density plantations, sustainable agriculture, and providing end-to-end solutions to small holders.

The company also manufactures PVC & PE piping systems, plastic sheets and also solar products including water-heating systems, photovoltaic appliances and solar pumps.

The company has a turnover exceeding Rs 3,400-crore.

Hindustan Un, 294.75, 297.6, 294.5, 296 Hindustan Zi, 1256, 1263.75, 1235, 1241.5 Housing Dev, 258, 259.9, 253.65, 255.85 Icici Bank L, 1245, 1254.8, 1233, 1238.65 Idea Cellula, 69.45, 69.45, 66.15, 66.5 Ifci Ltd, 72.85, 74.05, 71.6, 72.1 India Cement, 118.4, 120.1, 117.5, 118.75 India Infoli, 122.5, 124, 119.8, 120.35 Indiabulls F, 225.6, 230.5, 220.85, 224.15 Indiabulls R, 191, 194, 188.2, 189.8 Indian Bank, 306.5, 306.5, 298.5, 301.05 Indian Hotel, 103.7, 107, 102.8, 104.2 Indian Oil C, 423.1, 427, 422, 423.45 Indian Overs, 170, 174.5, 169, 173.35 Indus Dev Ba, 183, 185.2, 182.35, 183.6 Indusind Ban, 279.1, 283.9, 277.4, 279.9 Infosys Tech, 3031.95, 3044.75, 3015.05, 3024.35 Infra. dev., 205.65, 209.8, 204.45, 207.6 Ispat Indust, 20.5, 21.05, 20.5, 20.65 Itc Ltd, 174, 177.1, 174, 175.55 Ivrcl Infras, 157.5, 157.5, 155, 156.1 Jai Corp Lim, 245.35, 249.85, 242.1, 244.3 Jaiprakash A, 126.15, 128.15, 123.7, 124.2 Jet Airways, 809.9, 810, 796.25, 800.2 Jindal Saw L, 220.45, 222.5, 218.25, 218.9

Chhatisgarh), Rajasthan, Gujarat, UP (West), Punjab, Haryana and Maharashtra in the auction held recently.

Tata DoCoMo''s 3G network, set up with the assistance of NTT DoCoMo, supports highspeed Internet access with speeds of up to 21.1 Mbps and the services would be available on commercial basis from the mid-night tomorrow, that is November 5 morning on the day of Diwali.

Going forward, NTT DoCoMo will continue to leverage its mobile expertise.

Fortis Health to launch new hospitals REUTERS MUMBAI, NOV 3

Fortis Healthcare plans to open at least 7-8 new hospitals over the next 12-18 months, Chief Executive Officer Bhavdeep Singh told a conference call on Wednesday.

MF FUNDA

BOARD MEETINGS Advani Hotels Engineers India Powersoft Glob Videocon Inds ICSA India Source: Indiainfoline.com

IDFC MUTUAL FUND has approved November 8, 2010 as the record date for declaration of dividend under the dividend option of IDFC Arbitrage Plus Fund - Plan A and B. The face value of per unit is Rs 10.

Rs 0.02 per unit subject to availability of distributable surplus shall be declared as dividend as on the record date under the scheme.

DEUTSCHE MUTUAL FUND has announced the revision of exit load structure under DWS Money Plus Fund with effect from November 4, 2010.

Accordingly, the revised exit load will be 1% for redemption / switch outs (including SIP /STP) within 4 months from the date of allotment of units.

RELIANCE MUTUAL FUND has approved November 8, 2010 as the record date for declaration of dividend under dividend option of Reliance Interval Fund - Quarterly Interval Fund Series II under both Retail and Institutional Option.

The face value of per unit is Rs 10.

Rs 0.1197 per unit under the retail plan and Rs 0.1241 per unit under the institutional plan as on the record date shall be declared as dividend under the scheme.

Jindal Steel, 700, 714.05, 700, 710.45 Jsw Steel Li, 1334.95, 1342.65, 1324.1, 1329.85 Kotak Mahind, 478.75, 489.5, 475.1, 486.05 Lakshmi Mach, 2716, 2745, 2670.15, 2678.4 Lanco Infrat, 63.5, 64.45, 62.65, 63 Larsen & Tou, 2139.35, 2155, 2117, 2148.9 Lic Housing, 1357.25, 1357.25, 1300.2, 1308.85 Lupin Limite, 447.95, 456.9, 446.2, 452 Mahanagar Te, 71, 71.25, 69.1, 69.7 Mahindra & M, 759.35, 770, 753, 759.9 Maruti Suzuk, 1497.55, 1508.6, 1487, 1496.1 Max India Lt, 161.95, 162.35, 159.2, 160.65 Maytas Infr., 197.9, 198, 189.7, 191.7 Moser-baer (, 63.4, 66, 63.1, 64.9 Mrpl, 83.65, 84.25, 82.9, 83.2 Nagarjuna Co, 151.1, 153.75, 151, 152.7 Nagarjuna Fe, 36.25, 39.1, 36, 37.45 National Alu, 406, 408, 403.15, 404.85 Neyveli Lign, 162, 165.7, 161.2, 162.25 Ntpc Ltd, 195, 195.5, 192.75, 193.2 Oil And Natu, 1338, 1346.8, 1328.1, 1330.45 Omaxe Limite, 147.6, 150.15, 142, 143.75 Oriental Ban, 530, 541.3, 518, 521 Pantaloon Re, 473, 481, 471.05, 472.65 Parsvnath De, 68, 69.1, 65.4, 66.95

Petronet Lng, 120.8, 122, 118.3, 119.05 Power Fin Co, 370, 372, 367, 370.4 Power Grid C, 100, 100.6, 99.05, 100.45 Praj Industr, 72, 72, 70.45, 70.7 Punj Lloyd L, 128.9, 128.9, 122.45, 123.2 Punjab Natio, 1317.95, 1331, 1317.95, 1327.6 Rajesh Expor, 138.8, 141.85, 132.05, 135.3 Ranbaxy Labs, 606, 611.9, 600.25, 603.85 Rashtriya Ch, 105.6, 125.55, 105.6, 123.2 Rel. nat. re, 39, 40.45, 39, 39.7 Reliance Cap, 825, 827.75, 815.25, 818.85 Reliance Com, 183.25, 184.35, 180.05, 180.45 Reliance Ene, 1240, 1240, 1224.15, 1236.1 Reliance Ind, 862.55, 877.4, 860.5, 863.95 Reliance Ind, 1082, 1084.9, 1062.65, 1065.3 Reliance Pow, 158.3, 163, 158, 160.1 Rolta India, 172.8, 173.5, 171, 171.45 Satyam Compu, 79.5, 82.6, 79.25, 81.15 Sesa Goa Ltd, 329.1, 334.4, 328, 329.8 Shipping Cor, 185.1, 185.6, 181.4, 182.35 Siemens Ltd, 842.05, 847, 836.4, 839.65 Sintex Indus, 219.65, 224.8, 214.2, 217.55 Sobha Develo, 367.7, 367.7, 358.05, 361.05 State Bank O, 3215, 3286, 3211.1, 3272.6 Steel Author, 195.2, 195.6, 192.2, 193.4

Sterlite Ind, 171, 177.9, 170.35, 176.5 Sun Pharmace, 2192, 2276.7, 2192, 2249.3 Sun Tv Netwo, 519, 525, 515, 521.85 Suzlon Energ, 57.2, 57.7, 56.45, 56.8 Tata Communi, 307.05, 312, 304.9, 306.1 Tata Consult, 1050.9, 1079, 1048.4, 1052.8 Tata Motors, 1161.95, 1191.9, 1161.7, 1185.55 Tata Power C, 1390, 1415, 1373.75, 1380.1 Tata Steel L, 603.2, 613.4, 601.65, 609.6 Tata Teleser, 23.4, 23.5, 23.1, 23.25 Tech Mahindr, 726.7, 738.95, 726.7, 732.5 The Ge Shpg., 364.8, 365.7, 350.55, 352.3 The Phoenix, 248, 248, 237, 241.6 Thermax Ltd, 884, 892, 871.25, 886.8 Titan Indust, 3850, 3866.05, 3813.1, 3833.05 Torrent Powe, 304, 306.95, 295, 296.65 Triveni Engg, 125, 125, 121.2, 121.9 Tv18 India L, 87, 89.45, 87, 88.55 Uco Bank, 137, 140.25, 136.5, 137.55 Ultratech Ce, 1128.9, 1142.85, 1113, 1117.05 Union Bank O, 386.2, 392, 386.2, 390.05 Unitech Ltd, 87.1, 88.8, 86.65, 88.55 United Phosp, 206.5, 211.35, 205.25, 208.4 Videocon Ind, 264.2, 264.8, 259.05, 260.25 Vijaya Bank, 109.1, 112.55, 109.05, 111.4

OHERALDO

Biz13:Layout 1 11/4/2010 12:21 AM Page 1

Pg13

BIZ

GOA, THURSDAY, 4 NOVEMBER, 2010

Over dozen beaches to Coal India to debut at Rs 280-300: analysts be developed in Gujarat PTI NEW DELHI, NOV 3

PTI AHMEDABAD, NOV 3

In a bid to promote tourism in Gujarat, government will soon undertake development of over a dozen beaches along its 1,600 kilometre coastline, State Tourism Minister Jay Narayan Vyas said here today.

"The move is expected to attract investments both from domestic and overseas to the tune of Rs 50,000 crore in the forthcoming Vibrant Gujarat Investor Summit," Vyas claimed.

"The idea is to encash on the naturally available maximum number of beach weather days (238 out of 365) in Gujarat.The techno-feasibility study for developing over a dozen beaches has already been conducted by IL&FS and its under scrutiny of the Gujarat Infrastructure Development Board," he said.

Suvali, near Surat district will be amongst the first beaches to be developed by the state, besides Umargaon.

"Suvali alone is pegged to attract investments of Rs 5,000

crore. The model of development is not fixed yet. Some places shall be developed exclusively by the private parties, while others will be given a facelift on Public Private Partnership model," Vyas said.

"Initially, we shall develop the infrastructure facilities required for a beach to be lively.. like walk ways, water sports, landscaping, caravan facility, holiday home, and hawker zones," Toursim Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL) managing director Anoop Shukla said.

The Corporation is expected to spend anything between Rs 10-12 crore per beach on infrastructure development.

"As part of the infrastructure development each beach is expected to have a resort at its nucleus for which we shall be providing land survey numbers to the developer so that development could gel with existing infrastructure," Shukla said.

The newly constituted Gujarat Tourism Project Development Corporation Limited

(GTPDCL), a joint venture between the Gujarat government and IL&FS will undertake development of resorts.

"The management contracts for operating the resorts shall be awarded to private players on PPP Model," Shukla said.

The state expects sudden influx in traffic flow from overseas through the sea route as the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor stretch passing through here is expected to spur the economic activity by manifolds.

"In such a scenario, well developed beachs along the coastline would be ideal recereational spots in the state," Vyas said.

Amongst the major beaches proposed to be developed are Suvali (near Surat), Pingleshwar and Mandvi in Kutch, Sarkeshwar, Gopnath, Tithal, Miyani, Ahmedpur, Nagrol, Umargaon, besides Poshitra, Shivrajpur, Okhamadi and Bet Dwarka which are part of the master plan for development of Dwarka.

Coal India (CIL), which garnered Rs 15,200 crore through its IPO, is likely to make a powerful debut in the range of Rs 280-300 on the bourses, thereby giving a boost to the broader market, say analysts.

"Coal India would witness a remarkable debut on Dalal Street, which would uplift the broader market sentiment.

Investors are likely to earn smart gains from the listing, which should be in the range of Rs 280-300," Geojit BNP Paribas Financial Services AVP Gaurang

Shah said. The issue price of the country''s largest IPO has been fixed at Rs 245 a share -the higher end of the price band of Rs 225-245.

The BSE's Sensex, which is hovering in and around 20,500mark, has its eyes all set on

CIL''s listing, which is likely to drive the market to some

cheerful note. Besides, the marketmen also feel that CIL''s

listing will give the much needed push to the market.

Titan Eye Plus in Goa

Jagannath N, head, supply chain and lens manufacturing unit, Titan Eye Plus seen at the launch of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Titan Eye Plusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; store in Goa. HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, NOV 3

Titan Industries today opened Titan Eye Plus in Goa. The new specialised eyewear showroom from Titan Eye Plus is located at Titan Eye Plus store Shop No 21, Magnum Centre, MG road, Panjim.

The store brings to Goa a

range of spectacle frames, sunglasses and contact lenses which include house brands of Titan, Eye+ and Dash along with spectacle frames and sunglasses from renowned international brands like Espirit, Tommy Hilfiger, Hugo Boss, D&G and Versace among others.

The range spans every budget with frames starting at Rs 395 up to Rs 30,000.

Branded lenses from Titan, Essilor, Kodak and Nikon; contact lenses from Baush & Lomb, Johnson & Johnson and Cibavision are also available Apart from the wide assortment of eyewear in sync with latest fashion, the store has highly trained staff who will help you chose the right spectacle/sunglass based on your lifestyle. An in-store style section uses the latest technology to help customers make the right choice of spectacles/sunglasses. Customers can take a picture using the webcam in the style section; this webcam is connected to a monitor to view the picture. This unique in-store feature will help customers make the right choice instantly.

The store also offers a zero error free eye testing by the state of the art instore testing facility and Optometrists specially trained by world famous Sankara Nethralaya. All products available at Titan Eye Plus are of impeccable quality and come with a minimum of 6 months of warranty.

I-T probing Ireo for FDI norm violation PTI NEW DELHI, NOV 3

The Income Tax department is probing the country's first real estate private equity fund for alleged violations of FDI norms and evasion of taxes in bringing in a whopping Rs 8,000 crore through tax havens like Isle of Man and Cyprus.

The department is probing the source of investments in the real estate firm -- Ireo -after it recently conducted searches on its premises on October 19 and seized documents related to the ownership pattern of the company, investments, expenditure and its tax statements to Revenue Departments in India and abroad.

"Shareholding of all Ireo Group companies in India (with the exception of JVs in India) is entirely held by Ireo Private Equity Funds, which are domiciled in Mauritius. The funds, in turn, have raised nearly USD 2 billion in capital from a base of global blue chip investors including renowned global financial institutions, university endowment funds and sovereign wealth funds," an Ireo spokesperson told PTI in a statement.

"All investments into India by Ireo Private Equity Funds is in complete compliance with all relevant rules and regulations,

and suggestions of any wrongdoing such as round tripping of funds etc are entirely without any factual basis," the spokesperson added.

The I-T department, sources said, has found that Ireo has purchased vast expanses of land in various Indian states to build townships and residential estates in contravention to the FDI laws which prohibit foreign investment in agricultural activities.

The firm, however said that it has followed the law by purchasing agricultural land and using it for development purposes.

"Ireo has approximately 3,000 acres of landholding across India, all of which has been legitimately purchased in full compliance with all relevant state regulatory norms. As per FDI regulations, use of FDI for agricultural activity like farming, plantations etc is prohibited; however it is not against the law of the land for FDI-funded Indian companies to purchase agricultural land for development purposes," the spokesperson said.

The department is also scrutinising the tax statements of the firm, which has its operations in the National Capital Region (NCR), Haryana, Punjab, Tamil

Samsung to expand facility PTI CHENNAI, NOV 3

Consumer durables major Samsung Electronics will invest Rs 350 crore for expanding its manufacturing facility at Sriperumbudur near here.

The company today signed a memorandum of understanding to this effect with the Tamil Nadu Govt in the presence of Deputy CM M K

Stalin, an official release said.

With the additional investment, Samsung would also manufacture consumer durables, electronic equipment, including mobile phone components. Samsung had expressed willingness to make additional investment in the state when Stalin recently visited Korea and China.

Nadu and Maharashtra, to check avoidance of tax by routing the funds through tax haven countries like Mauritius, Isle of Man and Cyprus.

"The I-T department approached Ireo for a search on October 19, and Ireo is cooperating with all requests for information/clarifications. Unfortunately, recent media coverage has incorrectly speculated and cast aspersions in connection with this event," the Ireo spokesperson said while reacting to the I-T action that came on the same day when it raided the premises of four consortia which had bagged contracts worth Rs 700 crore for the Commonwealth Games.

Sources said the I-T probe is also looking at the avoidance of taxes by the firm under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement which enables a taxing entity to pay tax in either country, thereby avoiding getting taxed twice.

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pg 14_Layout 1 11/4/2010 12:24 AM Page 1

SPORTS

Pg 14

GOA, Thursday, 4 November, 2010

Churchill bow out of Durand JCT…1

Churchill…0 PTI NEW DELHI, NOV 3

In an exciting contest that went down to the wire, JCT rode on Amandeep Singh's extra-time strike to knock out defending champions Churchill Brothers and book a final berth in the 123rd Durand Cup football tournament at the Ambedkar Stadium here today.

After both teams failed to find the net in regulation time, Amandeep, running in towards the post from the left, lobbed one past Churchill Brothers custodian Vinay Singh with his right foot in the 101 minute of the fist semi-final, to bring an end to the Goans' campaign.

Much of the credit for the allimportant goal should also go to Daniel Bidemi -- his flicked header off JCT goalkeeper Pawan Kumar's kickback landed in the zone for Amandeep to lob the ball into the Churchill Brothers net.

"I am very happy for that assist that led to the all-important goal, but I must appreciate

Amandeep's effort who pulled off a nice goal," Bidemi said after the match.

While Amandeep broke the deadlock, it was Pawan who turned out to be the real hero for the winners. An understudy to former JCT goalkeeper Karanjit Singh for the last few years, Pawan made some brilliant saves today, and was equal to the task against dangerman Okolie Odafa.

The defending champions could have taken the lead just before Amandeep's strike had it not been for Pawan, who stretched full length on the right to block Odafa's power-packed freekick.

Going by the standards he has set for himself, it won't be wrong to say that Odafa had an off-colour day, though he was marked by almost the entire JCT outfit. "That was the ploy," JCT coach Parminder Singh said after

the match.

The absence of a few important players, especially stopper Gouramangi Singh, who are currently with the national team in Dubai, did not help the Goans' cause.

Odafa had a chance to break the ice on the 90th minute, but he shot Zakeer M P's through ball wide off the post.

Churchill Brothers were also not helped by woodwork – at least on three occasions they were denied. Ismail Gurung, after a sortie from the right flank, sent a diagonal that hit the crosspiece, and after that, Odafe missed to score off the rebound.

Even as Churchill attacked with alarming regularity at the start of second half, JCT played a composed game to wriggle out of the difficult situation.

Their defence, manned by

stoppers Rahul Kumar and Omolaja Nurain Kareem, and well supported by rightback Daljit Singh and Lal Chuanmawia on the left, didn't give any space to Odafa.

Earlier, JCT started the match on a positive note, and Bidemi's angled shot off Daljit cross that was parried away

by Vinay, was an indication of things to come.

The last time JCT had played in a Durand final was in 2006, when they lost to Dempo by a solitary goal. The outfit from Punjab have won the tournament, the third oldest in theworld, on five occasions.

Churchill were unlucky to bow out of the tournament more so as they missed nine of their key players with five attending the under-23 national coaching camp and four being in India’s senior team camp.

Goa make a come back PTI INDORE, NOV 3

Brilliant batting by Swapnil Asnodkar (84) and Vidyut Shivramakrishnan (58) helped Goa to make a come back in the game in plate Ranji Trophy tournament Group 'A' match at Holkar Stadium here today.

On the third day Madhya Pradesh bowlers toiled hard as Goa batsmen gave fitting reply and batted brilliantly.

In the morning resuming their

fresh second innings both the openers Goa skipper Sagun Kamat and Swapnil Asnodkar batted confidently and added 85 runs for their first wicket partnership.

Kamat was first to leave for pavilion at his individual score of brilliant 50 scored in 82 balls with eleven boundaries.

Vidyut Shivramakrishnan, who failed to strike in the first innings, showed his old touch and scored classic 58 in 108 balls with six hits to the fence and one over the fence.

Asnodkar and Shivramakrish-

nan added useful 111 runs for their second wicket partnership.

Meanwhile, well set batsman Asnodkar completed his coveted half century in 141 balls with seven boundaries.

At the score of 214 Madhya Pradesh got big wicket of well set Asnodkar at his individual score of 84 runs scored in 232 balls with 12 boundaries.

Ajay Ratra and Rahul Keni carried the innings ahead. At the end of third day's play Goa were sitting pretty at 268/3 after wiping out the first innings deficit of 158 runs.

Goa 1st innings: 170, MP I innings 328.

Goa 2nd innings: Sagun Kamat c Naman Ojha b Abbas Ali 50, Swapnil Asnodkar c&b Isharwar Pandey 84, Vidyut Shivramakrishnan lbw b Ankit Sharma 58, Ajay Ratra batting 35, Rahul Keni batting 25. Extras: 16. Total: 268 for 3. Fall of wickets: 1/85, 2/196, 3/214. Bowling: T. Sudheendra 17-354-0, Anand Rajan 12-0-46-0, Ankit Sharma 28-6-75-1, Ishwar Pandey 14-4-45-1, Abbas Ali 13-4-21-1, Murtaza Ali 5-1-15-0, Harpreet Singh 1-0-0-4-0.

Siolim edge out Navelim HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, NOV 3

Football Club of Siolim got the better of Navelim Villagers 9-8 via tie-breaker to move into the quarter-finals of 4th Bardez Cup inter-village football tournament organised by United Club of Nerul, at Dr. Gustavo Monteiro Stadium, Candolim on Wednesday.

Siolim dominated the initial proceedings and kept attacking the Navelim citadel time and again. A good try by Ryan D’Souza in the fifth minute sailed inches over the bar while Sarvesh Shirodkar failed to beat the Navelim keeper in the eighth minute.

Siolim finally took the lead in the 20th minute through Domnic D’Souza off a Rio D’-

Souza cross.

Down by a goal, Navelim fought back and leveled terms in the 40th minute through Alister Gomes off a Franky Pereira’s back pass after Alister himself had done all the spadework.

At the end of regulation time the teams were held 1-1 draw.

In the ensuing tie-breaker, Ryan D’Souza, Domnic D’Souza, Sangam Pednekar, Vinay Pednekar, Melroy D’Souza, Claudio Rodriguese, Francis Fernandes and Pravin Govekar converted for Siolim while Richard Costa, Jason Pereira, Levin Pereira, Nelson Coutinho, Franky Pereira, Sam Roy Cardozo and Merwyn Pereira found the mark for Navelim.

Davorlim sail through HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, NOV 3

Sporting Club of Davorlim scored a solitary goal win over Betalbatim Sporting Club to advance into the quarter-finals of Curtorim Villagers Cup inter-village football tournament organised by Curtorim Gymkhana, at Curtorim ground, on Wednesday. The all-important goal was netted by Agnelo Colaco in the opening session.

Agnelo stunned Betalbatim

with a rasping drive from the right of the box giving no chance to the rival keeper.

Stung by the setback, Betalbatim tried to fight back with striker Dickson Rogtao’s rasping drive missing the target narrowly.

Crossing over, Betalbatim improved their attack but all in vain. Davorlim nearly doubled the lead but striker Rosebud Gomes’ snap shot was blocked by the Betalbatim keeper.

SAFF to shift office to Margao SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT NEW DELHI, NOV 3

South Asian Football Federation

Nagoa Cup soccer semis: Dicarpale SC v. Mandopa Sporting, Nagoa ground, Verna, 4.45 p.m.

Bardez Cup soccer: PVC Parra v. Penha de Franca, Dr. Gustavo Monteiro Stadium, Candolim, 4.30 p.m.

4th All-Goa late Eslinda Alemao soccer: Navelim Villagers Union v. Nerul SC, Rosary ground, Navelim, 4.30 p.m.

Curtorim Villagers Cup soccer: Fr Agnel Youth Club, Assolda v. Young Strikers, Benaulim, Curtorim ground, 4.30 p.m.

VJT Cup soccer: Upcoming Boys, Baida v. Caramorod SC, Church ground, Chinchinim, 4.30 p.m.

(SAFF) will shift its office from TATA, Bardez to Margao.

Speaking to Herald, Alberto Colaco, general secretary, SAFF stated that he intends to shift the office to the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda since he has relinquished the post of general secretary of AIFF on Monday.

Fatima SC win HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, NOV 3

Fatima Sports Club, Baida registered a narrow 1-0 win over Palmar Grande to enter the quarter-finals of VJT Cup football tournament organised by VJT Events Management, at Church ground, Chinchinim on Wednesday.

There was no score at half time.

Both the team shared equal ball possession, however, either failed to score with both the goalkeepers alert at the nets.

Crossing over and time running out, Fatima’s Narcisco Rebello struck the match winner in the dying minutes.

GOA DIARY Tie-breaker at Nuvem

PANJIM (HSD) -- Uzo Petlo Boys of Gorvotte, Nuvem will organise their 1st All-Goa 3-a-side tie-breaker soccer tournament on November 5, at Gorvotte, near Honda showroom, Nuvem, at 10 a.m. The winners and runners-up will take home Rs 8,000 and Rs 6,000 respectively. Details may be obtained on 9881394016 or 9637722314.

pg15­new_Layout 1 11/3/2010 10:43 PM Page 1

Pg 15

SPORTS GOA, Thursday, 4 November, 2010

Spurs outwit Inter, Man United win Tottenham ........3 Bursaspor ........0 Copenhagen ....1 Benfica ..............4 Rubin Kazan ....0 Werder Bremen 0 Hapoel Tel-Aviv 0 Valencia ............3

came to a halt in an enthralling 4-3 defeat at Benfica in Group B. Manchester United were the only group leaders who could not guarantee qualification this week but they took a big leap towards the first k n o c ko u t ro u n d thanks to goals by Darren Fletcher, Gabriel Obertan and Bebe in a 3-0 win at Bursaspor.

Valencia prevailed 3-0 against Rangers to leapfrog their opponents into second in Group C. Rafael van der Vaart sent White Hart Lane mad in the return with a first-half goal after good work

by Luca Modric but the Dutchman was substituted at the break

Inter Milan ........1 Man Utd ............3 Barcelona ........1 Lyon ................3 Panathinaikos ..0 FC Twente ........2 Schalke ............0 Rangers ..........0

AGENCIES LONDON, NOV 3

The chinks in Inter Milan's armour were exposed again as Tottenham Hotspur beat the holders 3-1 in Champions League Group A and all three teams able to secure last-16 qualification flopped on Tuesday.

Like Inter, 2009 winners Barcelona only needed a win to go through with two games to spare but drew 1-1 at FC Copenhagen in Group D while Olympique Lyon's three-match winning streak

Mathews, Malinga steer Lanka past Australia AGENCIES MELBOURNE, NOV 3

Angelo Mathews and Lasith Malinga put on a one-day international record 132 runs for the ninth wicket to fire Sri Lanka to a remarkable one-wicket victory over Australia on Wednesday.

The Sri Lankans, who were chasing 240 for victory, looked dead and buried at 107 for eight before Mathews, who ended up with an unbeaten 77, and Malinga lit up the Melbourne night with some batting pyrotechnics to claim an unlikely victory.

The partnership was finally broken when Malinga was run out for 56 with the scores level at 239, leaving 10th man Muttiah Muralitharan to hit the winning boundary.

Australia have now not tasted victory in nine matches in all forms of cricket going back to July and have the Ashes series against England looming at the end of the month.

It had looked like being left arm spinner Xavier Doherty's night as he took four wickets and engineered a stunning run out on his debut to put the hosts in the driving seat. Mathews and Malinga had other thoughts, however, and they sprayed the ball around the Melbourne Cricket Ground with abandon

to exceed Kapil Dev and Syed Kirmani's ninth wicket stand of 126 for India against Zimbabwe in 1983.

Sri Lankan paceman Thisara Perera earlier took five for 46 but Michael Hussey belied his recent form with an unbeaten 71 as Australia rallied to 239-8.

The Australians, beaten by seven wickets in a Twenty20 match against the Sri Lankans in Perth on Sunday, started expansively and were comfortable at 85-1 until Perera claimed three wickets in eight deliveries.

Acting skipper Michael Clarke (27) and wicketkeeper Brad Haddin (49) went to superb catches from Kumar Sangakkara and Tillakaratne Dilshan before Cameron White was skittled for a golden duck.

Doherty enjoyed his own eight-delivery spell to rival Perera's, first trapping Mahela Jayawardene leg before in his first over and having Chamara Silva caught by Shane Watson and bowling Sangakkara in successive balls in his second.

The second match is in Sydney on Friday and the series closes with a third day-night match in Brisbane on Sunday.

The first Ashes Test begins in Brisbane on Nov. 25.

S Africa score 2-run win over Pakistan AGENCIES DUBAI, NOV 3

South Africa held their ner\ve to clinch a thrilling two-run victory over Pakistan in a chaotic and error strewn finish to the third one-day international at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.

Defending a modest total of just 228 for nine, built almost exclusively around an unbeaten century from opener Hashim Amla, South African seamers Lonwabo Tsotsobe and Juan Theron only just managed to defend 34 runs in the final four overs.

Pakistan came up short despite an unbeaten 59 from Fawad Alam who was dropped twice in the closing overs while Theron added to the tension by bowling a no ball with the first delivery of the final over from which 12 runs were required.

Amla hit 119, continuing a superb fun of form in the last six months which has seen him

Batista named Argentina's new coach AGENCIES QATAR, NOV 3

Olympic gold medal-winning coach Sergio Batista was confirmed as expected on Tuesday to succeed Diego Maradona as Argentina's coach until the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Batista, who has already presided over three friendlies since August in an interim capacity, was officially presented as the new coach at an Argentine Football Association (AFA) news conference.

"The AFA executive committee has unanimously designated Mr Sergio Batista as the new coach of the Argentina football team along with his full staff," A FA s p o k e s m a n E r n e s t o Cherquis Bialo said.

Maradona's contract expired after Argentina's humiliating 40 defeat by Germany in this year's World Cup quarter-finals in South Africa.

Batista, who will be 48 next Tuesday, named a squad earlier on Tuesday to play arch-rivals Brazil in a friendly in Qatar on November 17, his first commitment as the permanent head coach.

score 865 runs in his last 11 ODI innings with five centuries.

On an awkward, rather than difficult or dangerous batting surface which lacked pace, Amla guided and teased the ball into gaps and used his delicate touch to play as late as possible.

His team mates, however, were largely at sea with only J-P Duminy (26) passing 20. AB de Villiers might have done better than his 19 off 40 balls had he not been bizarrely given out stumped by third umpire Zameer Haider despite his back foot being clearly grounded behind his crease.

Pakistan's top order once again struggled although Imran Farhat (47) and Asad Shafiq (43) added 85 for the third wicket to repair the early damage.

Shahid Afridi hit his second ball for six to surpass Sanath Jayasuriya as the leading international six-hitter of all time across all formats (353) but was then promptly dismissed.

with a nagging injury.

Peter Crouch made sure it was an unhappy return to England for his former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez when he slid in for the second on 61 minutes after Gareth Bale, hat-trick hero at the San Siro, again showed stunning speed to whip in the cross.

Red-hot Samuel Eto'o bagged his seventh goal of the group stage but Roman Pavlyuchenko converted another Bale pass a minute from time as Tottenham went top on head-to -head record.

In the other group game, Dutch champions Twente Enschede boosted their slight hopes of progressing with a 2-0 win at Werder Bremen.

Barca's Lionel Messi cast his magic spell yet again with a welltaken opener on the half hour but a flap by Victor Valdes allowed Claudemir to level for Copenhagen just a minute later. Rubin Kazan and Panathinaikos drew 00.

Lyon were blown away by

Gavaskar demanded Rs 20 crore, says BCCI AGENCIES MUMBAI, NOV 3

BCCI has rejected Sunil Gavaskar’s charge that Board has not paid a single penny to the legendary cricketer for his services.

In a stunning disclosure, BCCI revealed that former Indian skipper had demanded Rs 20 crore for his services to IPL as a Governing Council member.

"He has been sending emails regarding his payment but there was no contract," said BCCI secretary N Srinivasan to Times Now. However, BCCI also clarified that Gavaskar was to be paid only Rs 1 crore for the past three years as per the agreement.

Meanwhile, BCCI president Shashank Manohar told reporters that Sunil Gavaskar had not sought any meeting with BCCI. “I am ready to meet anyone, but he (Sunil Gavaskar) has not sought any meeting with me,” Shashank Manohar said.

Benfica's verve and Fabio Coentrao's brace before a spirited fightback from 4-0 down almost levelled matters but second-placed Schalke 04 could not take full advantage with a 0-0 stalemate at Hapoel Tel Aviv.

pg16_Layout 1 11/4/2010 12:01 AM Page 1

SPORTS

Churchill bow out of Durand Pg 14

Pg16

Spurs outwit Inter, Man United win Pg 15

GOA, THURSDAY, 4 NOVEMBER, 2010 www.oheraldo.in

Gambhir, Laxman fit for opener: Dhoni

In BrIef Australia a ‘wounded animal’: KP English star batsman Kevin Pietersen called Australian team a ‘wounded animal’ looking revenge their last year Ashes defeat. Australia which dropped to fifth in the ICC Test team rankings for the first time since the rankings were introduced, has also been tipped by many to lose the Ashes series at home for the first time since 1986-87. But Pietersen feels those setbacks serve to make the Australians a more desperate and dangerous proposition for England this summer. ''They are, in Australia, a very, very tough team to beat,'' Pietersen was quoted as saying by the BBC. ''They are a wounded animal at the moment and you know what happens when animals get wounded, they turn into fearsome predators. ''Let's just hope that we can play well enough to conquer that.''

Koshy appointed interim HI chief Mariamma Koshy, the head of Hockey Kerala has been appointed the interim president of the Hockey India in place of octagenarian Vidya Stokes, who resigned from the post a few days back.

The executive body of Hockey India (HI), accepted the resignation tendered by Stokes.

I am not in hiding: Modi Former IPL commissioner Lalit Modi made his first public appearance ever since he was served a 'Blue Corner' notice by the Enforcement Directorate.

Modi is speaking in a highprofile sports management convention at the Twickenham stadium near London in his capacity as the founder and former chairman of the IPL. While speaking about his role in the conception of the high profile T20 league, Lalit Modi said that he is not in hiding.

Kumble, Srinath to contest KSCA polls Promising to make a difference, former India captain Anil Kumble and Javagal Srinath jumped into fray in the Karnataka State Cricket Association elections to contest for the President and secretary's post respectively.

In what would be a historic change of guard if it happens, Kumble and Srinath would be among the candidates contesting in the elections slated for November 21. Brijesh Patel, who was secretary of the association for 12 years, has decided not to contest the elections.

Rahul Dravid, is expected to be a part of the management committee.

Laxman

Gambhir

Test starts at 9.30 am

PTI AHMEDABAD, NOV 3

The Indian team's injury crisis seems to be finally ending with skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni today announcing the return of first-choice batsmen Gautam Gambhir and V V S Laxman for the opening cricket Test against New Zealand starting here tomorrow.

Their return has forced the team to drop Murali Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara but Dhoni feels the move would not be a de-motivating factor for the duo.

"As far as Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara are concerned, they replaced Gautam Gambhir and V V S Laxman. And when you have players like that, when they come back into the team they will find a place in the final

eleven. I don't think it's very demotivating (for Vijay and Pujara)," Dhoni said at the prematch media conference here today Vijay utilised the opportunity he got in Gambhir's absence and slammed his maiden Test hundred (139) and also put on a crucial triple century stand with Sachin Tendulkar to help India recover from a poor start and win over Australia in their previous Test at Bangalore last month.

Pujara too played in an attacking fashion to score a dazzling 72 in the same game when India chased a tricky 200-plus fourth innings target and achieved it with plenty to spare to complete a 2-0 whitewash over Australia.

Dhoni said both the youngsters knew they will have to sit out with the main players back and available for selection in the final eleven for the clash at the Sardar Patel Gujarat Stadium in Motera.

He also advised the duo to utilise the free time away from action to work on their strengths and iron out any weaknesses.

For Dhoni, it was not the inconsistent displays of the seamers bowling in tandem with spearhead Zaheer Khan which is the worrying factor, but the injuries that have forced the team to constantly shuffle the

pace pack.

"For me the major concern is about injuries because we have important series coming up.

After this series we are going to South Africa and the World Cup is also coming up. If you see the last few series we have played, we have missed key players, especially the bowlers. "(Abhimanyu) Mithun played a game and then missed out. Ishant (Sharma) was in and out and (Shantakumaran) Sreesanth came to Sri Lanka and he was out. That's also the reason if you see the playing eleven you have Zaheer on one side and the other side the bowlers you see a constant change in them as most of the times they are either not fit or not 100 per cent fit," Dhoni said.

Dhoni said a team can gamble with a less than 100 per cent batsman by playing him, but can't take the same risk with the bowlers' fitness.

"When it comes to fast bowlers it's a very demanding job. With a batsman even if he is 70 to 80 per cent fit you can gamble and play him. When it comes to a fast bowler it gets very difficult especially when you play two fast bowlers and two spinners, which means if you miss one bowler in the middle of a Test match it becomes difficult to bowl those 90 overs (in a day). So the major concern is the injuries and hopefully no people would get injured at least till the World Cup," he said.

Dhoni hoped the wicket would be turning and he, after losing a few tosses, would win it tomorrow.

...not willing to buy UDRS ‘without warranty’ PTI AHMEDABAD, NOV 3

Virender Sehwag may advocate its usage but Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni remains adamant that the controversial Umpire Decision Review System should not be implemented unless it guarantees 100 per cent accuracy.

Sehwag has called for implementation of the UDRS but it would not be in use during India's Test and ODI series against New Zealand starting tomorrow.

Dhoni said that he is always reluctant to purchase a life jacket without an accompanying warranty and the referral system in its current form was in a similar situation.

"I personally feel it's not cent per cent thing. I don't think it gives cent percent result. It's not always correct. If I am going to buy a life jacket which does not come with a warranty, that's

n Dhoni felt the umpires should give correct decisions, saying they were paid professionals like the cricketers of the world and needed to ‘step up’ and deliver. a bit of a hassle for me especially with the huge amount of money you have to spend for the DRS system coming into the game.

"I would prefer some kind of warranty behind it. (The) moment it comes, I would be happy for it," said Dhoni to indicate the stand he has taken over its implementation at the next series for India, against South Africa away from home.

Dhoni also felt the umpires

should give correct decisions, saying they were paid professionals like the cricketers of the world and needed to ‘step up’ and deliver.

"You have two gentleman standing as umpires which means they are professionals. At the same time they have the support of the third umpire who, at the same time, refers from inside whether the ball pitched in line or not. I am talking about regular deliveries when appeal is made.”

"There have been a few decisions and it has been surprising to see umpires making those mistakes.

That could have been avoided if UDRS was there, but does that give the umpires the liberty to give bad decisions," Dhoni queried.

"They are professionals and they are paid to be there which means they have to really step up and do as well as some of the best cricketers in the world are performing," he added.

Gibbs makes stunning claims AGENCIES JOHANNESBURG, NOV 3

Herschelle Gibbs has claimed in his controversial autobiography, 'To the Point', that former South Africa captain Hansie Cronje had made an offer to the team to fix a match in India in 1996.

However, an one-time ace opener admitted that Cronje remained a man he would always admire.

In a chapter titled 'The controversies', Gibbs recalled the night Cronje changed the face of the game forever.

"It was 6.30 am and knocking on my door was the Proteas team captain Hansie Cronje. We were touring India in 2000 and in Nagpur about to play our final ODI match against India. My roommate Henry Williams was in the shower when Hansie sat down on the bed.

He got straight to

the point. 'I've got a mate here in India,' he said, 'and you can make some good money if you do what he's asking. He's offering USD 15,000 if you go out for less than 20 in today's game."

But it was not the first time that Cronje had approached his side about match-fixing, according to Gibbs.

"This had happened before," Gibbs wrote in his book which was released here on Monday.

"During a tour to India in 1996, we were due to play a benefit game for one of the Indian players. It would be the last game of the tour. The night before the game, Hansie got the whole team together and dropped a real bombshell. 'I know a guy', he said, 'who is going to give us USD 250,000 if

we lose this game."

Gibbs said the offer was tempting because the South Africans were probably going to lose the game anyway due to the team being below strength with six members of the side being sick.

"Of course, the team decided against taking the bribe but even so, it hadn't been an immediate and strong reaction to an activity totally abhorrent to the notion of sport. Instead, we talked the offer over. We declined the offer.

Sachin Tendulkar ended up getting a 100 in that game and, predictably, we lost."

Gibbs said when Cronje made the offer in Nagpur, the consequences of the offer did not even enter his mind as he thought about how it might help

CSA mulls legal action PTI JOHANNESBURG, NOV 3

Cricket South Africa is exploring legal actions against batsman Herschelle Gibbs following the series of revelations in his controversial autobiography, released earlier this week.

"I have not read the book and cannot comment on what is reported in the press," said CEO Gerald Majola.

"CSA has tasked its Legal Counsel to look into the matter and to advise us accordingly. Everybody concerned (including players) needs to wait for the outcome of CSA's processes which will be announced as soon as the Board has taken a view or a decision on the matter," he added.

CSA refused to give any further comments until the processes were complete. In his book, 'To the Point' Gibbs gave some controversial accounts of his sexual escapades, involving other South African players as well as the excesses of drug, booze during overseas tours. Gibbs also accused senior players such as skipper Graeme Smith, Mark Boucher, Jacques Kallis and A B de Villiers of being part of a ‘clique’ which created divisions in the side.

him pay off his mother's house.

"And just like that, I made a decision that would get me into a world of trouble and that I would bitterly regret."

Despite initially agreeing, Gibbs reneged on the deal but was subsequently fined and banned for six months.

"The match-fixing scandal (that started in Nagpur in India) may have cuffed us together but Hansie was a man I will always admire," Gibbs wrote, adding that he had forgiven him long ago.

"Hansie was certainly the best captain for whom I've ever played. Despite the cloud that hangs over his legacy...we were all in awe of the guy. Hansie was one of those men who had a special presence towards which others gravitate."

To this day, Gibbs remains uncertain of the inclusiveness of the King Commission of Enquiry which ended inconclusively after it was set up by the South African government in the wake of the match-fixing scandal. "I'm not sure whether the King Commission managed to uncover everything."

Although Gibbs is confident of there being no match-fixing talk in any South Africa side he has played in since the Cronje scandal, he is not certain about other teams, especially after the recent debacle with the Pakistani team on their London tour. "I've watched a couple of games on the subcontinent and I've had my suspicions.

"But I obviously can't be sure.

One thing I do know for sure, and that is, it is impossible to fix a game without 90 per cent of the team in on the deal."

But he also pointed out that the team has grown in confidence after chasing well on the last two occasions against Australia on wickets of uneven bounce due to the track's wear and tear after India lost the toss.

"Hopefully it will be a turner.

Actually it looks like it has less grass compared to the last Sri Lanka game we played and a lot less than the South Africa game we played. It looks like a normal Indian track".

"Certainly it's important to win the toss. I have lost quite a few tosses. In India it's considered that the fourth innings is the toughest to score runs, which means the batsmen have to bat cautiously. Even if they are set, one odd delivery can get you out.”

"You can get a low bouncing delivery or a bit more bounce than the other delivery. It (batting well in the fourth innings) definitely adds to the confidence of the batting unit as a whole.

"But at the same time in India you always want to bat first and push the opposition to bat last.

Which means they have to counter that extra bounce and turn when it comes to the spin attack. And a bit more reverse swing when it comes to seam bowling," he added.

He expressed hope that Sachin Tendulkar would complete his 50th Test century in the match.

Dhoni also expects out-of-form Rahul Dravid to regain his touch and score many runs.

"Hopefully he will get the

milestone here and we will certainly celebrate. We are always prepared for celebrations. I don't think it's very difficult to arrange for a celebration in India especially with the kind of reputations cricketers have got and the adulations we get, (but) what is important is to concentrate on the game.”

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