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IN BRIEF Terror modules busted A massive crackdown on sleeper cells of LeT was being carried out nationwide and along the friendly neighbouring countries and three such modules were busted which included the terror group’s nefarious design to target Hyderabad’s HITEC city. – (PTI)
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Goa wins power rebate case Likely to fetch Rs 100 cr to treasury HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MAY 4
In a significant development, the Goa government has won a power rebate case in the Supreme Court which is likely to fetch nearly Rs 100 crores to the State treasury. A bunch of special leave petitions (SLPs) was pending for around a decade challenging the Electricity Department’s decision to recover rebate benefits given to the power guzzlers in 1996. It’s also a victory for opposition leader Manohar Parrikar who had won a case in the Goa
bench of Bombay Court and the court’s ruling was challenged by power companies in the apex court. In some of the petitions, Parrikar was made a respondent. The power rebate issue is nearly two decades old as the notification providing rebate of 25 per cent for a period of five years from the date on which supply of electricity is made, was issued on September 30, 1991 In 1995 it was rescinded but amended to bring in extra high tension consumers a year later. As a circular was issued on March 31,1998 by the office of
chief electrical engineer suspending release of 25 per cent rebate, several petitions were filed in the High Court. They challenged the impugned notification dated July 24,1998. By judgment dated January 21, 1991 the High Court held that the circular did not have any legal efficacy but further held that validity of the rescinding notification dated July 24, 1998 couldn’t be faulted as it was held to be valid and legal. Challenging the order that the companies were not entitled for rebate beyond July 271998, the aggrieved persons went to
the Supreme Court where the SLPs were dismissed. When Parrikar filed a writ petition in the High Court challenging the notifications of 1996, the court quashed the two notifications rejecting inter alia the plea of res judicata on the grounds that the validity of the two notifications was not in issue or considered in the judgement dated January 21 1999. Against the April 2001 judgement, special leave petitions were filed in the Supreme Court and in the following year, the (Continued on page 10)
Kasab sentence on Thursday PTI MUMBAI, MAY 4
Pakistani gunman Ajmal Amir Kasab, convicted for the 26/11 terror attacks, will be sentenced on Thursday by a special court with the prosecution demanding death penalty, branding him a killing machine manufactured in Pakistan. Asserting that Kasab’s case came under the rarest of rare category for giving death sentence, Public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam said Kasab was a heartless monster who laughed seeing innocent people dying in pain. Making out a strong case for capital punishment, Nikam said if he was given lesser penalty “India will become a soft target for every self-styled terror group.” “There has been a high degree of cruelty and Kasab had total disregard for life. Kasab is
a killing machine manufactured in Pakistan,” he said. In his arguments today on the quantum of sentence to the 22year-old terrorist, Nikam told the jampacked anti-terror court in the Arthur Road jail that the crime committed by Kasab has shaken the collective consciousness of the society. “He has lost the right to live,”
Nikam said describing Kasab as “heartless monster..he not only enjoyed killing innocent people but also expressed anger while confessing before a Magistrate that he could not execute more,” Nikam argued before special judge M L Tahaliyani. “Such a monster should be given death penalty.... He is an agent of the devil himself ”. During its arguments for over two hours, the prosecution contended that Kasab ruthlessly carried out the executions. “It was pre-meditated.”. Defence counsel K P Pawar cited Kasab’s young age and pleaded for leniency. He contended that Kasab was “blinded by religion and should be given a chance to reform.” Dressed in a white kurta-pyjama and unshaven, Kasab kept his head bowed throughout Nikam’s arguments, showing no emotions.
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Mumbai motormen back on tracks PTI MUMBAI, MAY 4
Motormen of the suburban rail network —Mumbai’s lifeline used by seven million commuters daily— called off their indefinite strike today bringing relief after they held the city to ransom for nearly two days. With the threat of the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) being invoked looming large, the Motormen Union decided to call off their agitation after urgent talks with Home Minister R R Patil.
Normalcy was restored towards evening with suburban trains of Central and Western railways on tracks, a couple of hours after the agitation was withdrawn. The strike by the suburban train drivers that affected normal life resonated even in parliament where the opposition targeted Railways Minister Mamata Banerjee for not doing anything to tackle the situation and also disrupted proceedings. Congress members also joined in raising the issue.
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MMC for HC directions to ex-CO to divulge ‘corrupt’ councillors’ names manded money from the builders. Vice-Chairperson Raju Naik demanded that the outgoing CO name the corrupt counMargao Municipal Council’s special meeting cillors saying that CO’s note has painted all on Tuesday turned out a damp squib with the City Fathers in bad light and felt that the the Council only deciding to file a special Councillors should all resign if Acharya fails leave petition in the High Court seeking dito disclose the names of the Councillors. rections to ex-Chief Officer Prasanna Acharya With the Chairperson not suggesting any to divulge the names of Councillors extortaction how to clear the air of susing money from the builders. picion raised by the former Chief Expectations that the City FaOfficer, former Chairperson thers would resolve to approach Ganashyam suggested that the the Crime Branch or Vigilance to inquire into the allegations made I had received oral complaints from some of the builders Council should file a special leave by the ex-Chief Officer fell flat as against the same Councillors stating that they are extorting petition in the High Court directing the Councillors accepted the sug- money by simply raising issues against any construction ac- the chief officer to disclose the names. He also suggested that the gestion of former Chairperson tivities which are coming up in their respective wards. These matter can be sent to the crime Ganashyam Shirodkar to file the Councillors approach the concerned builders on the next day branch to investigate the matter. special leave petition in the court. Incidentally, midway through Incidentally, MMC Chairperson after raising the issue in the Council and makes demand for the meeting, the Chairperson Savio Coutinho later told news- huge money in the name of setting the matter. I was also informed by one of the builder that they have placed two files before the Counmen that the decision to file a special leave petition would be also trapped one of the Councillors by calling him in their cil and suggested that the Council referred to the Municipal legal office and hand over the money by recording the same by revoke the permissions citing irregularities. One case pertains to counsel for opinion before filing video footage. As a responsible officer of this Council, I had asked the con- a division of a flat into two flats, the petition. While most of the Councillors cerned builders to lodge complaint against the particular demanding to know how the then came for the meeting hoping that Councillors so that they are barred from contesting Council Chief Officer and the technical an appropriate decision will be elections. However, the builders don’t intend to tarnish the section could clear the file. Councillor Gansashyam and adopted by the Council which image of the Council because of which no such complaints others felt that since the Chief would clear them of the corruption are registered. Officer has agreed to furnish all tag, they went back disappointed At one stage, the Councillors said they all information relating to construction files and dejected as no concrete decision was should tender their resignations if the Chief since 2008, the Council should take a coltaken by the Council at today’s meeting. On the contrary, both the ruling and op- Officer fails to divulge the names involved lective decision instead to selectively tarposition councillors charged Chairperson in corruption. A section of Councillors felt geting only two cases. The only positive outcome of the meetSavio Coutinho for pushing his agenda and they should all approach the Chief Minister, getting a construction permission revoked Digambar Kamat, but the suggestions did ing was the assurance given by the Chief at the meeting. Coutinho went ahead with not receive the nod from all the City Fathers. Officer Y B Tawde to furnish information Former Chairperson Piedade Noronha to the Chairperson on construction lithe revocation of the permission despite strong objections from the opposition mem- set the ball rolling demanding to know the censes issued by the Civic body since 2008 bers that the Council should take a collective names of the Councillors who had de- by May 15. decision on irregular permission instead of targeting individual cases. Most of the City Fathers, who participated in the discussions, were unanimous in their opinion that the outgoing CO ought to have named the Councillors involved in corruption instead of tarnishing the image of all the elected representatives.
HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, MAY 4
What Prasanna Acharya’s note says about Margao City Fathers
Miramar footbridge to take shape at Vasco workshop HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MAY 4
The proposed footbridge at Miramar will initially take shape in a workshop at Vasco and later transported to the spot, where it will be installed over a fortnight. The Corporation of the City of Panaji in partnership with Prakash Art Private Limited, Hyderabad will be constructing a footbridge over the road beyond Sharda Mandir School, Miramar on Public Private Partnership mode. Sources confirmed that the work of manufacturing footbridge has already begun in a workshop at Vasco, which will be completed in next fifteen days. “The contract has been under taken by one ship building company at Vasco. The same will be later installed at Miramar by end of this month,” sources said. The entire cost of the footbridge Rs 30 lakh will be invested by the Prakash Art and in-turn, CCP has assured 10 years exclusive advertisement rights to the company. “During the pick hour it becomes very difficult for people to cross the road and especially small children find it trick to go to their cars, which are parked on the other side of the school,” sources said.
HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, MAY 4
Canacona Block Congress Committee President Elvis Fernandes has asked party workers in Canacona to avoid confusion within its own rank and file. With something seems to be not right among few local Congress leaders and workers, it prompted Fernandes to issue a press statement asking party workers to avoid the confusion. Presently, Congress leaders claim to have hold on five of the seven panchayats and the lone municipal council in Canacona taluka. Fernandes claimed that Congress party workers are confused as their own party
functionaries are favouring dislodging of panchayat’s having Congress hold and even went on to mention Gaondogrim panchayat as an example. Recently, Gaondongrim Sarpanch Vasant Gaonkar having the blessing of Congress leaders and its supported panel was defeated in a no-confidence motion, and then installed Vishant Janu Gaonkar as sarpanch, who is close to BJP legislators and a strong detractor of Congress leaders in the taluka. “Due to our internal bickering and misunderstanding, Congress is loosing hold and instead our detractors are unduly benefited at our cost. We should be united to bring development to the
Calangute MLA Agnelo Fernandes listens to the grievances of residents of Alto Porvorim. Photo by Anil Shankhwalker
Admitting that residents of Alto-Porvorim have been facing acute water shortage for many years, Calangute MLA Agnelo Fernandes has stated that efforts are being made to augment the water supply in the area. He was speaking after launching the laying of new PVC water pipeline of 160 mm diameters at Alto-Porvorim on Tuesday. “Residents of Alto -Porvorim are facing acute shortage of water for several years n o w. Fu r t h e r, d u e t o o l d pipeline they get water supply at very low pressure and it is this for this reason, the existing small water pipeline is being replaced with 160 mm diameter pipeline,” said Fernandes. “The pipeline is being laid from Math to Casino Hotel and the estimated cost is Rs 6.86 lakh. The work will be completed within a week,” said Fer-
nandes. Marra-Pilerne Deputy Sarpanch Ramakant Malik said residents of Alto-Porvorim residing in the vicinity of Casino Hotel are facing water problem for the last 3 years. “Hence, I had taken up the issue with the local MLA. With the laying of new pipeline of bigger diameter, the residents will get water at good pressure,” said Mailk. “The panchayat has also decided to develop the children’s park at PDA Colony and Zilla Parishad member Jayesh Salgaonkar has agreed to take up the project through ZP funds,” added Malik. Later, MLA Fernandes met the residents of the locality and heard their grievances. Brenda Vaz informed the ML A that when they dial phone numbers of the engineers for the water supply through the tankers as advised by the PWD through local newspapers, they do
The controversial hoarding that was erected in place of an eight-decade-old Ashoka tree near Vasco Railway station got a fresh lease of life for another one-and-half month, as the legal advisor of Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) failed to turn up for the hearing. The applicant has obtained a stay from the court against MMC chief officer’s order to remove the hoarding and revoke the license. The applicant has claimed that since he has obtained all permissions from the council, he should be given an opportunity to present his side. Council staff Anand Shatoshkar, who deals with legal issues of the council, informed that the hearing, which was fixed on May 3 in the civil court Vasco, was delayed for another one and half months since the legal advisor of the council failed to appear for the hearing.
not get proper response from the engineers. “The residents either find the phone numbers of some of engineers switched off or the engineers direct them to contact other engineer,” claimed Vaz. Agnelo Fernandes instructed Assistant Engineer Prakash Surlikar to issue memo to the engineers whose phones were found switched off. “Since the residents do not receive potable water in sufficient quantity, PWD made the arrangement to supply water in tankers to the needy people and hence the engineers are supposed to cooperate with the people,” said Fernandes. Marra-Pilerne Deputy Sarpanch Ramakant Malik, Panchas Mahadev Nagvekar, Amrut Hadfadkar, PWD Assistant Engineer Prakash Surlikar and Junior Engineer Damodar Shirodkar were present at the site.
people of Canacona,” Fernandes told Herald. There are widespread allegations since then that former Canacona Youth Congress president Sanju Naik played pivotal role in bringing down the Gaondongrim sarpanch and then installing BJP man Vishant Gaonkar. Fernandes asked party functionaries to forget the past and remain united or else people of Canacona will have no trust in Congress policy functioning. Fernandes also asked party leaders to come to terms before taking drastic steps in haste, which could spoil party image, which according to him has to remain intact, keeping its base strong enough for future elections.
Erection of power line issue at Davorlim in court HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, MAY 4
The controversial question whether the government should go underground with the erection of 33 KV double-circuit line at Davorlim is now in the court of the District Magistrate, South. Residents of Davorlim had strongly opposed the erection of the Xeldem-Rawanfond 33 KV double-circuit overhead line passing close to their cultivable fields in the village. Since the farmers and villagers hit the streets a month ago, work on the erection of line stands suspended, but the Power department has now moved the proposal for adjudication before the District Magistrate. A senior power official said since the cost of going underground with the line will be an expensive proposition – nearly 10 times the cost of overhead line – the department had no
Colva resort STP chambers idle, yet to be operated
HERALD REPORTER VASCO, MAY 4
Canacona Cong workers urged to avoid confusion
Efforts on to augment water supply in Alto-Porvorim: MLA
HERALD CORRESPONDENT PORVORIM, MAY 4
Controversial hoarding at Vasco gets fresh lease of life
option than to knock the doors of the district Magistrate to resolve the imbroglio. Herald understands that the hearing of the matter is likely to commence soon with power officials saying they would provide the names of the owners of land falling within the line alignment. “Let the district Magistrate decide the question whether the High Tension should go underground or overhead as is the project proposal”, remarked a senior official. Incidentally, the decision to take the controversial matter to the district Magistrate comes against the backdrop of the inquiries made by the Governor S S Sidhu on the issue. It is learnt that the Governor sought a detailed report on the controversy after the farmers hit the roads and stopped erection of the line passing through Davorlim village.
File photo of Colva Creek. HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, MAY 4
Day two of the inspection of hotels and restaurants close to the Colva beach has again revealed the same old story – though many of the establishments had the Sewage Treatment Plant facility in place, the plants remained idle for want of their operation. Those establishments found operating sans the mandatory STPs have since been directed by the Goa State Pollution Control Board teams to immediately apply for the treatment plants before the Board cracks a whip against them. Incidentally, inspection of a starred hotel, which was inspected on Tuesday, revealed the worst fears of the local villagers. Though the resort has a
STP in place, the chambers were found totally empty, indicating that the plant is not put to use to save electricity costs. Convenor of Colva Civic and C o n s u m e r Fo r u m J u d i t h Almeida, who accompanied the GSPCB team to the various establishments, said that time has come for the various authorities to act and rid the village of the mess. “The two-day inspection clearly shows that all is not well and sewage and kitchen waste finds its way in the storm water drains, leading to the creek. This has to be stopped forthwith”, she demanded. Almeida said the local Colva Panchayat body also cannot shirk its responsibility as it is the licencing authority issuing permissions for the establishments. “We demand that all the
agencies put their act together and rid the Colva village of the nuisance”, she said. The Colva Civic and Consumer Forum is now awaiting the report of the Goa State Pollution Control Board to chalk out its future course of action. Replying to a question, she said the Forum along with other villagers will play an active role to ensure that all directions issued by the Pollution Control Board are implemented in toto by the hotels and restaurants. “We will maintain a vigil that directions to the establishments are implemented in letter and spirit”, she said, when her attention was drawn to the fact that directions issued by the GSPCB normally goes abegging for want of infrastructure and logistic support with the Board.
Vasco-based 108 ambulance AC non-functional for last 3 months HERALD REPORTER VASCO, MAY 4
It may have been launched with much fanfare, but its maintenance seems to be tough task for authorities, as the air-conditioner of the Vasco-based 108 ambulance service has been non-functional for the last three months, causing problems to the patients. In Vasco, one of the busiest towns in the State that houses many vital installations, accidental and emergency calls are a regular phenomena and the fact is evident, as nearly 8-10 calls are received by 108 emergency services per day. According to sources, over three months have passed the air conditioner of 108 ambulance stationed at Vasco police have not been functioning, which have caused major problem while shifting the patients. Since the entire rare cabin of ambulance is completely covered to facilitate AC, there is hardly any provision for ventilation in the absence of AC. Sources informed that with the non-functioning of AC, it could cause problem to elderly ailing patients, especially during the scotching summer heat in the packed compartment of the ambulance. Sources further said nonfunctioning of AC could lead to vomiting, if patients do not get sufficient air. “The condition of the ailing patients could get worse if the patients are to be shifted to GMC Hospital in Bambolim,”
said sources. There are instances in the last three months that patients have complained about suffocation in the absence of ventilation. A top official from 108 Ambulance claimed that the air conditioner is non-functional for the last three months.
“Since the maintenance contract has been awarded to a Bangalore-based company, repairs have been delayed,” added the top official. “The part of the Ac will arrive in Goa in another five days and the AC will be repaired soon,” he added.
Colva cops lodge kidnapping case HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, MAY 4
The Colva police has registered a case of kidnapping against a 20year-old boy for allegedly kidnapping a minor girl. The police stated that the case has been registered following complaints received from the parents of the minor girl. So far, the police team led by PSI Anand Shirodkar has failed to rescue the girl kidnapped by the accused boy. Further investigations are on.
Tourism ill-effects affecting children in Canacona! HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, MAY 4
Development of tourism in Canacona taluka may be welcomed in general, but it has also given nightmares to a number of residents, including parents and educationists. If sources are to be believed, during the last academic year at least two schools from the taluka were caught in an uncanny situation, after some students were reportedly caught carrying drugs, cigarettes and even condoms in their school bags. Sources informed that it is time that the education system itself has to spruce up and every one including the parents are held accountable for the deteriorating standards. “Are only teachers responsible in grooming school children? Parents need to mould or help their children to grow up as responsible citizens of the country,” said a retired educationist, who does not want to be identified.
“Teachers roles are limited to schools and books. For major and rest of the time, children are with the parents. Parents should play an important role like regularly observing their children’s movements and other then books or other learning materials what exactly is stocked in their school bags,” added the retired teacher. Says a headmaster of a high school: “How will a teacher know what a student does before or after school hours. Parents should be responsible enough to check what their children stocks in their school bags or uniform pockets.” Interestingly, no one wants to publicly speak or identify for fear of coming in the bad books. A teacher on the condition of anonymity told Herald: “What you have learnt now is just a tip of iceberg in a big ocean, but I certainly blame parents for such happenings. Parents should keep an eye as to what their young ones are upto.”
Sources further said one school reportedly warned some students, in whose school bags narcotics substances and condoms were found, for a certain period of time, before they were allowed to sit and answer their exams. Sources further said another school simply closed the matter, as the culprit students reportedly left the school and the school thought to consider the matter as closed. The fear was that the name of the school will be maligned and all other students coming from decent families will be affected by the development, if school authorities decide to go for harsh action. In one case, parents were called and accordingly informed, but neither the teachers nor the parents wants to be identified who discovered the banned substances in school bags. It is learnt that schools affected by some of the happenings last academic
year successfully played it safe. Given the enormity of tourism development in the entire State, which also includes Canacona taluka, there is an unstoppable rush of people hoping against each other to reap tourism fruits from every angle and it may not be right to say that only coastal residents go after the tourism pie. Recently, a visiting priest in one of the church who saw fast-paced development in tourism in the taluka told the faithful: “Beach tourism took birth in Calangute 30 years ago. Now many of the parents there have seen tourism ill-effects on their children in their garb for easy money.” “Now they cannot come back nor save their children from exploitations. I fear similar trend in your areas, please take care and avoid falling too much to earn fast money by raking in illegal avenues. Please keep an eye on your young children before it is too late.”
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GBA asks for details on flying squads Demands written several assurances from CM HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, MAY 4
Goa Bachao Abhiyan is not too happy with the decision of the Government to form flying squads to respond to illegal hill-cutting, filling of low-lying land and other violations and have sought more details about the same. GBA mentioned they were all for flying squads but questioned the Government if it was serious then where were the details of the same. If the Government is serious then why hasn’t it released the initial details like who will be the persons to be contacted during any violation? it questioned. GBA Secretary Reboni Saha said the GBA was convinced the announcement of flying squads was a damp squib given the fact nothing much has happened after the first assurance was given by the Chief Minister Digambar Kamat on March 4, 2010, that the Regional Plan would be complete in six months. Saha observed almost same assurances are being repeated since March 4. We
were assured eco-sensitive zones will be protected but nothing of that sort is happening. Assurances are there but nothing is on paper, she asserted. She said, “It will be sometime before we will really see the flying squads because the same has to be notified in the official gazette for implementation. Before that the GBA would like to have some circular or some details in written form regarding the squads.” In a press statement issued here, the GBA cited many reasons why the decision of forming the flying squads was a damp squib. It reminded that the Goa TCP Act, 1974, was itself not in sync with Article 243, especially Article 243G, 243N & 243ZD and the Eleventh and Twelfth Schedules there under. The statement adds further, “The process of revoking and replacing, or at least amending, the said Act is imperative. The only progress made here is in the change of the Chairperson of the Review Committee. The Goa Law Commis-
sion, which was entrusted with the review of this Act, is not known to have done anything even in the context of the Section 16 & 16A amended in March, 2008 itself.” The GBA demanded that the constitution of a committee to propose the amendments to the outdated Goa, Daman & Diu Town & Country Planning Act, 1974 need to be published in the Official Gazette for the information of the aggrieved public. It reminded that although the draft Regional Plan was notified in October 2008 and the village panchayats had submitted the village plans to the Goa TCP Department on June 15, 2009, or thereabout, there was no official notification about the final Draft Regional Plan for Goa 2021. The assurance of the CM on March 27, 2010, in the Goa Legislative Assembly was the only tangible progress since March 4, it mentioned. The statement of GBA chides the Government on taluka Plans of Pernem
and Canacona. “The plans have not been made public by March 31, 2010 as committed on March 4, nor by the revised date of April 30, 2010 and we have serious apprehensions that the process for the eleven talukas will not be completed by September, 2010, if there is no fixed schedule specified to the Chief Town Planner who by law has to get the RP for Goa prepared under his control and direction. The Government is mum on this subject,” it mentions. It again reminded that the various groups, CSOs and NGOs who actively participated in the village level planning process and in the structured meeting on April 21, 2010, have expressed utter disgust at the delaying tactics adopted by the Government that claimed to represent the “aam aadmi”. The GBA warned in the obvious failure to keep up to its assurances, the Government of Goa will have to assume full responsibility for the unforeseen consequences in future.
New rates of VAT to be effective from today HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
A mining truck being washed in Salaulim Dam waters at Curdi, the water of which is supplied to most parts of south Goa. Photo by John Fernandes
Boy found dead in Nuvem well HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, MAY 4
A 15-year-old boy was found drowned in a well as Nuvem last night. Maina Curtorim police said the deceased Royston Colaco had gone missing from his house on May 2 and his body was later found in the well. The body, which was fished out from the well, was later referred for post mortem examination. The police are investigating the case. Death: A 38-year-old worker from Jharkhand was found dead at Arlem this morning. The Maina Curtorim police said the deceased had gone to sleep last night and was found dead today. Further investigations are on.
MMC ropes in sopo contractor without inviting bids HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, MAY 4
The Sopo (occupation fees) has come to haunt the Margao Municipal Council. With no takers for the tenders floated by the Civic body, the Municipality has now roped in a contractor without inviting bids, raising eyebrows whether the arrangement has been done with an eye on the Holy Spirit feast scheduled later this month. Margao Municipal Chairperson, however, begged to differ. “The Sopo contractor could not be appointed as there were takers for the two bids floated by the Civic body. We were faced with no option than to rope in the contractor who collected the sopo on be-
half of the Council last financial year”. Incidentally, the Margao Municipal Council had drafted its employees to collect the sopo from the traders and vendors. At the end of the month, the employees managed to collect revenue of Rs 1.96 lakh in April. “Deduct the overtime and other expenses from the revenue and the actual revenue falls shorts of the expectations”, the Chairperson said. Coutinho, however, says the hand-picked contractor has been awarded the contractor for a monthly fee of Rs 2 lakh, with further conditions that he makes an advance payment of one month fees, besides two month security deposit.
That’s not all. Coutinho said the contractor just cannot abandon the work after collecting the sopo for the month of May in view of the Holy Spirit feast. “We have taken adequate care to ensure that the contractor continues the work till further orders. He just cannot abandon the sopo collection work after this month”, he said. The Chairperson said the Civic body would soon invite tenders again, while saying that the bidders have apparently shied away from participating in the bids due to the enhancement in the upset price by 15 per cent. “The idea to increase the upset price was taken by the outgoing Chief Officer”, he quipped.
With monsoons round the corner, MMC yet to desilt Margao nullahs HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, MAY 4
Dark clouds are hovering out in the sky with unseasonal rains hitting the State in the last few days, but there’s no urgency shown by the Margao Municipal Council to get the main nullahs desilted this year. Be it the Old market nullah or the one passing by the South Goa Planning and Development, work has not yet commenced on the desilting of these water bodies till date. These two water nullahs, besides the storm water drains acts as a drainage of rain water from the city to River Sal at Mungul. Sadly, both these nullahs not only remained heavily silted, but have been left polluted by the discharge of sewage waters and other waste. When Herald contacted MMC Chief Officer, Savio Coutinho, he only said that t h e Wa t e r Re s o u rc e s d e - The stinking Old market water nullah awaiting desilting. partment has been intithe work by deploying heavy machinmated by the Council to take up the er y ”, he said. work on a war footing. “We have disIncidentally, though the Chairperson c u s s e d t h e m a t t e r o f d e s i l t i n g o f has claimed that pre-monsoon works in these nullahs on a priority basis with the city is going on as scheduled, some the Water Resources department. The of the opposition Councilors pointed out department has assured to take up that the work is yet to start in their
The government of Goa, as proposed in the Budget for 201011, has amended the VAT rates of certain commodities effective from May 5, 2010. The official notifications have been issued, which will, be published in the Official Gazette on May 5. The amended rates will, therefore, be effective from May 5, as follows: All the commodities, other than declared goods, which are taxable at 4% till May 4, shall be taxable at 5% from May 5, 2010; country liquor, which is taxable at 10% till today, will be taxable at 5% from May 5, 2010; and declared goods will continue to be taxable at 4% but under separate entry No. 16 of Schedule “C”. For any more details, the dealers may contact the Commercial Tax Officers at ward offices at Panjim, Ponda, Mapusa, Bicholim, Vasco, Margao and Curchorem or at Headquarters, says a press release.
Picnic ends in tragedy as one drowns at Pale HERALD CORRESPONDENT BICHOLIM, MAY 4
A picnic ended in a tragedy when a 45-year-old man from Ambeshi-Pale drowned in the river on Sunday. According to reports, the incident occurred on Sunday at about 5 pm when one Raguvir Jana Gawde along with his three friends had gone for a picnic at nearby river. In the evening, Raguvir went into the waters, where he drowned. The search operations by his friends proved futile. Raghvir’s body was recovered from the river on Tuesday. PSI T P Walke is investigating the case.
Tragedy strikes youth 4 days before wedlock HERALD CORRESPONDENT SANGUEM, MAY 4
Photo by Santosh Mirajkar
wards. Former Chairperson Johnson Fernandes on Tuesday took up the matter with the Chairperson after the special meeting, pointing out that pre-monsoon work has not yet commenced in his ward till date.
A 28-year-old man from Taripanto-Sanguem was barely four days away from his marriage when he was killed in a road mishap on Tuesday, after the motorcycle which he was driving was hit by a truck opposite Government Sports Complex, Sanguem. According to Sanguem police, the accident occurred when Martin Fernandes was proceeding towards Sanguem on his motorcycle. The basalt stones-laden truck (GA-09-U-8818), which was in the process of overtaking a parked vehicle, dashed against the motorcycle driven by the deceased. Incidentally, the deceased was scheduled to get married on May 8 and all arrangements had been made for the marriage celebrations. Angered over the mishap, residents of Sanguem have called for total bandh of all transportation activities involving mining trucks till the funeral ceremony of the deceased, which is reportedly scheduled for May 7. Sanguem police arrested the truck driver and placed him under arrest under Section 304A and 279 IPC.
Curchorem parishioners demand immediate action Threaten agitation for failure
HERALD CORRESPONDENT CURCHOREM, MAY 4
Deeply hurt over the desecration of four statues at Guardian Angel Church, Curchorem, parishioners have threatened an agitation if the government fails to solve the case within a week. A special meeting of the parishioners was convened in the church premises on Tuesday evening, where Parish Priest Fr Ligorinho D’Costa and Fr Trinidade Monteiro were present. Speaking to media persons, Fr D’Costa said the parishioners are deeply hurt by the dastardly act of anti-social elements. The parishioners have demanded that the case may be handed over to other agencies like CBI, SIT or NIT if Goa Police cannot solve the case. Fr D’Costa said: “These priceless statues were invaluable. Such types of incidents have been taking place all over the State since the last 15 years and the government has miserably failed to nab the perpetrators. The investigation system has totally failed.” Fr D’Costa has requested the government to take the incident seriously by taking the Church case as a special study case and bring the culprits to book so that it will help in solving other cases. Fr D’Costa reiterated his state-
Guardian Angel Church, Curchorem, Parish Priest Fr Ligorinho D’Costa and Fr Trinidade Monteiro addresses the press conference. Photo by Suresh Naik.
ment saying that a big award may be declared by the government to the person who help to nab the culprits. “A steering committee of two spokespersons and four others will be constituted to follow up the day-to-day progress in the case,” he said. “We do not want any compensation from the government, but what we need is the justice in the case. The culprits should be nabbed,” he added. He further said the youth should be given special training and should be deployed at sacred places by paying them good salaries. Fabrica Attorney Gabriel Fer-
nandes, Treasurer John Fernandes, Benny Fernandes, social worker Martin Menino Fernandes, Celina Pires, Maria Calderia and others said the government does not seem serious about the unfortunate incident that occurred in the church premises. “Some 11 such incidents have occurred in Sanvordem-Curchorem areas itself, but not a single case has been solved. The direction of investigation needs to be changed,” they voiced. It may be recalled that on Saturday night, vandals desecrated the statues of Our Lady of Lourdes, St Bernadette, Christ the King and Ven Fr Agnel D’Souza.
RND proposes ferry service at Galgibaga HERALD CORRESPONDENT CANACONA, MAY 4
While the much-needed bridge could well remain a distant dream, residents could soon be traveling across the Galgibaga River in ferries, with the River Navigation Department (RND) examining a proposal to operate ferry services in Canacona. A team of officials comprising traffic inspectors and a supervisor, reportedly deputed by RND superintendent, visited Galgibaga River on Tuesday morning to make a site inspection of the river during low tide and accordingly recommend measures for operating ferry boat service. Given the minimal depth of river Galgibaga at the transshipping point, only a small ferry could be a possibility in the event government pending the twin bridges (over rivers Galgibaga and Talpona) finally decides to introduce ferry service to minimise residents’ hardships. Interestingly, the inspecting team is likely to recommend dredging of Galgibaga River between Maxem and Galgibaga, as minimum of 5 mtrs depth has to be maintained for plying ferry boat service.
The team which had Khushali Vagonkar and Domingos Telles as traffic inspectors and supervisor Amar Gawde also opined that construction of a ferry wharf on either sides a t M a xe m a n d G a l g i b a g a should not be any major issue and both river banks are suitable enough for handling these berths. Sources informed that pending the long-awaited demand for twin bridges, which can shorten distance by over 12 kms, any vehicle taking up the benefit of ferry boat service at Galgibaga alone can shorten the distance by over 8 kms to Chaudi-Canacona. The narrow bailey bridge situated at one eastern end of river Talpona can handle only light motor four-wheeler. Loliem-Polem Sarpanch Pranali Prabhugoankar, Deputy Sarpanch Elvis Fernandes and Panch Jerome Fernandes, while from Poinguinim Panch Satish Painguinkar, Damodar Shenvi and social worker Budhu Mahale among others were present. It is learnt that even though Poinguinim and Loliem-Polem panchayats share the expenses for operating tar service (in local canoe), sources informed that at no time since Goa’s lib-
eration, any of these local bodies have ever demanded/resolved for government ferry boat service, but were happy to continue with the age-old practice of tar service.
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S H O RT TA K E S Rehab, neuro Congress held
PANJIM (HND): A music therapy session by Suresh Wadkar, one of India’s leading musicians, was a highlight of the International Congress on Neurology and Rehabilitation (ICNR) held in the State, recently. Organised under the agesis of World Federation of Neurorehab and Epilepsy Foundation, the Congress was attended by over 600 delegates from all over the world. ICNR 2010 was inaugurated by Maharaja Gajsingh II of Jodhpur. The three-day conference held deliberation on many neurological diseases and their rehabilitation but highlight was a very special music therapy session by Suresh Wadkar. All the association working for rehabilitation came together and supported this meeting. At the valedictory function, eight young presenters were honored by Dr Nirmal Surya, Chairman and Founder trustee of Epilepsy Foundation. The speakers from all over the world included Sain Price (UK), Mickey Selzer (USA), Barbro B Johansson (Sweden), Mindy Levin (Canada), Jane Burridge (UK), David Good (South Africa), Mershen Pillay (UAE), Shannon K de l’Etoile (USA), Vinod Sahgal (USA), Bhagwan Shahani (USA), Jorge Hernandez Franco (Mexico), Pradeep Thumbikat (UK), Pesi Katrak (Australia), Judith Underwood (UK) besides Dr Nirmal Surya.
CME organised at GMC
GHRSSIDC has grown into vibrant corporation: Kamat
Chief Minister Digambar Kamat distributing the subsidy cheques to the beneficiaries under clay ganesh idol makers scheme for the year 2009-10 at a function held at Maquinez Palace auditorium, Panjim on Tuesday. Also present are Chairman of GHRSSIDC, Sameer Salgoncar and MD of GHRSSIDC, Nikhil Desai. HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
Dr R G Wiseman Pinto, Dr Savita Chandra, Dr J B Sharma, Dr Sangeeta Sharma and Dr M P Silveira at the CME in Obstretics held recently at GMC.
PANJIM(HND): The Medical Education Cell of Goa Medical College organised a Continuing Medical Education (CME) Programme in Obstretics , Gynecology and Pediatrics at GMC recently. The visiting faculty were Dr J B Sharma, Professor of Obstretics and Gynecology AIIMS ( All India Institute of Medical Sciences) New Delhi and Dr Sangeeta Sharma, Head of Pediatrics, Department LRS Institute of Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases, New Delhi. The topics covered at the scientific session were "newer concepts in incontinence, their clinical presentations, types, causes, treatment and various operations and pediatric tuberculosis." Dr J B Sharma and Dr Sangeeta Sharma also conducted bedside the clinical teaching sessions. The CME was coordinated by Dr R G Wiseman Pinto, Dr V N Jindal, Dr Savita Chandra and Dr M P Silveira. Goa Medical Council gave accreditation to the CME which was attended by a large number of doctors, says a press release.
Sr citizens celebrate May Day
Chief Minister Digambar Kamat said, Goa Handicrafts, Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation has grown into a vibrant organization covering a wide range of activities, the credit for which goes to the Chairman and the Managing Director for infusing more life into the Corporation. Kamat was speaking after disbursing subsidy cheques to the 17 beneficiaries under the subsidy scheme for clay Ganesh idol makers organized by GHRSSIDC at Panjim on Tuesday. Kamat said, the subsidy of Rs 15000 disbursed to artisans with the aim for revival of the traditional art of clay idol making and to ensure its continuity apart from ensuring gainful employment to the traditional artisans. Speaking further Kamat said, a total of 437 artisans will be benefited and the subsidy amount disbursed will be 41.82
Seminar on development issues in State HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
The senior citizens of Recreation Centre, Pedda-Margao.
PANJIM (HND): The senior citizens of Recreation Centre, Pedda-Margao celebrated May first in a unique way by undertaking a day-long boat cruise at River Sal. The seniour citizens were exposed to the surroundings of the hinterland of Goa along the banks of River Sal. Dr Celso Fernandes had meticulously planned and organised this event, especially for the senior citizens of the centre, which was greatly appreciated by one and all. Bosco, exsarpanch of Cavelossim, arranged his boat for this wonderful cruise. This trip has benefited the senior citizens to develop closer ties amongst themselves and desired other counterparts to follow similarly, says a press release.
St Cruz committee formed
PANJIM(HND): Rudolf Fernandes was elected chairman of Social Welfare Association of Santa Cruz at the recently held elections. The elected executive committee’s members are Felix Fernandes (vice-chairman), Agnel Fernandes (president), Domingo Joao Dias (vice-President), Simplicio P C Fernandes (gen secretary), Arvind Dias (Jt Secretary), Simon Dias (Treasurer), Michael Araujo (Jt Treasurer), Thomas Almeida (Auditor), Remy Monteiro (Jt Auditor), Fr Christovao Caldeira (Advisor), Ligorio Oliveira (advisor), Aquino Fernandes (advisor). The cultural committee elected the following members: Peter Barbosa (president), John Dias (vice-president). Members of Publicity committee are Domingos Caitan Fernandes (president), Esmail Bepari (vice-president), Vasco Dias and Custodio Araujo (members). The members of the Govt schemes committee are Joao L Fernandes (president), Vincy Sequeira (gen secretary), Andrew Braganza (Jt secretary). The members of medical committee are Rose Marie Fernandes (president), Isabel Araujo (vice-president), Anthony Braganza and Tony Costa (members). The members of the church activity committee are Vincy Sequeira (president), Izabela Araujo, Cicilia Correia, Francis Araujo (members). The members of the information committee are Zeferino Dias (president), Sebastiao Rodrigues, Joao L Fernandes and Francisco Fernandes.
Legal literacy camp
PANJIM(HND): Legal Literacy Camp was inaugurated recently in the Village Panchayat Hall, Old Goa, in Tiswadi Taluka, as a part of National Legal Aid Week for Labour, from May 1 to 7. Madhuri Rao, family counsellor, spoke on the subject, ‘prohibition of sexual harassment at workplace and protection of rights of women workers/labourers.’ Harsha Naik spoke on the subject, ‘legal aid and child labour’ and the purpose of holding this programme in the village to create awareness about the legal assistance that they can seek from the Legal Services Authority. The camp was attended by Bharati Prabhudessai, President alongwith 60 women of All India Women's Conference, Goa Branch. There was an open question and answer session in which queries were raised by the people. The vote of thanks was proposed by Bharati Prabhudessai. The function was held under the auspices of Tiswadi Taluka Legal Services Committee, Panjim, says a press release.
The International Centre Goa in association with Goa Union of Journalists, Media Information and Communication Centre of India and Friedrich Ebert Stiftung - India will be organizing a seminar on Developmental Issues in Goa: A Media - Government Interface on May 8 and 9 at The International Centre Goa - Dona Paula. The seminar is aimed at bringing together media and government along with the civil society to deliberate and understand each other's point of view. The seminar is open for all. The 6 sessions of the seminar will focus on: how effective are local self governments for development, environmental footprints of tourists: need for introspection, infrastructure development at the cost of environment, migrants and immigrants: bane or boon, need for quantitative or qualitative education, healthcare in Goa: reach and impact. Later there will be suggestions and recommendation sessions. Each session will be chaired by an eminent person and will have 3 speakers representing government, media and civil society speaking for about 15 minutes followed by open discussion, says a press release.
Donation to Kala Academy HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
Renowned Goan artiste, Myra Menzie Shroff has donated a rare collection of orchestral music to Kala academy. The same will be made available for reference purpose to various orchestras working in the field and also for students and researches of music, as per the wish of the donor. Kala Academy has expressed gratitude towards this generous donation made to Kala Academy, says a press release.
lakh for the financial year 200910. Kamat expressed happiness that the State-owned Corporation has commenced aggressive measures to tap the domestic and export market for the handicrafts and hoped that it would be one of the best and vibrant organization. Chief Minister Kamat also released a documentary film on Aparant- Goan Handicrafts with financial assistance from Office of Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles and produced by Goa Handicrafts, Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation (GHRSSIDC) Documentary- Goa Handicrafts, Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation (GHRSSIDC). The Chief Minister also released copies of maps, brochures and pamphlets on Goan Handicrafts which have been printed by the GHRSSIDC with financial assistance from Office of Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles.
Speaking on the occasion Sameer Salgaoncar, Chairman of GHRSSIDC said, the documentary film the first of its kind on Goan Handicrafts will be used to extensively promote Goan handicrafts within the country and abroad. Naresh Sawal, Prakash Gaonkar, Deepak Dessai, Devendra Kenkre all Directors were present on the occasion. Nikhil Desai, Managing Director, GHRSSIDC welcomed the gathering and introduced the chief guest. Shakila Shet compered the function and later proposed the vote of thanks. The English documentary has been produced at a total cost of Rs 14.5 lakh by Mahatta Media Solutions, New Delhi and will very soon be dubbed in 3 additional languages namely Konkani, Marathi and Hindi. The documentary is the first of its kind on Goan handicrafts and will be used to extensively promote Goan handicrafts within the country and abroad.
Pradip Naik was on Tuesday elected unopposed chairperson of Ponda Municipal Council (PMC). Naik is the fourth chairperson during the current tenure of the council. Earlier, Sanjay Naik, Venkatesh Naik and Shailendra Shinkre have served as the chairperson. The election to elect new chairperson of PMC began at about 11 am. Since Naik was
HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
Applications are invited from the students desirous to enroll as private candidates to appear for SSC/HSSC Examination of March/April 2011. The candidates who are 17 years of age and above as on March 1, 2011 are only eligible to enroll for SSC exams and 19 years of age on March 1, 2011 are only eligible for HSSC, March 2011 Examinations. The last date to receive such application in the Board's Office without late fees is May 20, 2010, and with late fees May 31, 2010. The printed application forms may be procured from the Board's Office during office hours on payment of Rs 15 per form. Private candidates on enrolment will be issued an enrolment certificate. Only such private candidates shall be eligible to fill examination form and appear for the examination. The date of filling the examination form will be declared later. Students enrolling private candidates may please note that the Board does not appoint any private agent for such enrolment and therefore, they may contact the Board's directly for any information in this regard, says a press release.
upcOming EvEnTS Holy Cross feast PANJIM(HND): The feast of the Holy Cross shrine (Fulancho Khuris), Bambolim, will be celebrated on Sunday, May 16. The Maddi (Fama) will be held on Thursday, May 6 at 5:30 pm. The novenas in preparation for the feast will be commencing from May 7 to May 15 with Rosary at 5:15 pm followed by Mass and sermon. On the feast day, the first Mass will be at 7:30 am. The solemn High Mass will be at 9 am for which the main celebrant will be Fr Nazareth Fernandes from Retreat centre, Pilar society. Evening mass will be at 5 pm. The daily morning mass during novena days will be held regularly at 8 am as usual, says a press release.
Fado evening at Cidade
Restricted water supply HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
As the electricity department will be conducting a shutdown of power supply on May 6 from 8 am to 4 pm at Podocem Water treatment plant, there will be restricted water supply to entire Bardez and Bicholim taluka on May 6 and 7. Also, electricity department will be conducting a shutdown on May 11 from 8 am to 4 pm at Assonora Water Treatment plant as a result there will be restricted water supply to entire Bardez taluka on May 11.
Panchayat directory will aid common man: Faleiro
PANJIM(HND): Cidade de Goa brings to you and your family, a special traditional live Portuguese Fado evening at Alfama, the award winning fine dining restaurant on May 5. Fado evening pays tribute to the music of Portugal, with songs filled with passion, sorrow, jealousy, grief and satire. Well known Fado singers (Fadistas-in Portuguese) specially invited for the evening are Sonia Shirsat, Miguel Cotta and Chantalle Cotta Viegas. Musicians accompanying them will be Franz Schubert Cotta - Portuguese Guitar (Guitarra Portuguesa), Carlos Meneses - Guitar (Viola). Call now to book your table! Fado evening is at Alfama, Cidade de Goa on May 5 at 8 pm at Rs 650 plus taxes per person including a glass of cheer. For details contact 245454.
Workshop at Margao
PANJIM(HND): Workshop on Internet to expand your business will be conducted on May 6 and 8 from 3 pm to 7 pm at Gogol, Margao. For enquiries and registration, contact 9657210949, says a press release.
Maths workshop
PANJIM(HND): Mental Arithmetic and Vedic Maths workshop will be conducted for students on May 7 and 8 at Margao from 9 am to 1 pm. For enquiries and registration, contact 9657210949.
WAOD Day on May 7
PANJIM(HND): On the occasion on 9th World AIDS Orphans Day 2010, FXB India Suraksha Goa Branch, World Vision India, Zindagi-Goa and Goa State AIDS Control Society will be observing WAOD Day on May 7 at Mangoor Sport Club, Mangoor Hill, Vasco at 2:30 pm . Theme of the year is “I Am Positive,” says a press release.
Commissioner for NRI Affairs, Eduardo Faleiro releasing the panchayat directory in the presence of Panchayat Minister Manohar Azgaonkar, former chief minister, Shashikala Kakodkar, Chief Editor of Sakal Group, Uttam Kamble and Director of Sakal Group, Jaidev Mane, Rekita Colaco, Derek Almeida and others. HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
Commissioner for NRI Affairs, Eduardo Faleiro said the panchayat directory was a praiseworthy initiative by the Gomantak Publication of the Sakal group as it contains full information about each of 189 panchayats of Goa, which is beneficial to the common man. Mahatma Gandhi had advocated Panchayat Raj as a decentralized form of Government where each village is responsible for its own affairs, as the foundation of India’s Political system. He called it “Gram Swaraj” (Village self governance), he added. Faleiro was speaking at the release of Panchayat Directory compiled and created by Daily Gomantak at a function held at Kala Academy on Tuesday. Speaking further Faleiro said, panchayat directory is an initiative having referential value for years to come. Conceptualized in form of magazine, this special issue contains names, contact numbers of Sarpanchas, Deputy sarpanchas, Panchas of all 189 village panchayats in Goa. In addition it will carry descriptions
of places, personalities of interest, of historical importance besides information about basic, infrastructural facilities available within the jurisdiction of the panchayat, he added. Faleiro complimented Gomantak for raising issues of concern to the people of Goa and fighting for downtrodden against injustice. Daily Gomantak helped the family of freedom fighter Alfred de Souza, the blind family of Shetkar and the victims of the earthquake in Maharashtra. Daily Gomantak, he said founded the Lok Vishwas Pratishtan, a residential institute for the education of deaf and dumb children. Several of these children have found employment in Government and SemiGovernment establishments after having completed their education at Lok Vish Pratishtan, he added. Panchayat Minister Manohar Azgaonkar appreciated the efforts of the Gomantak publication for coming out with such a novel idea of panchayat directory which he said will be useful in many ways. He raised various issues concerning the gram panchayats in the state including
Pradip elected chief of PMC HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARCEL, MAY 4
Applications for SSC, HSSC exams
the lone contender, he was declared elected as chairperson by Presiding Officer, Mapusa Deputy Collector D M Redkar. Out of the 13 council members, only six members were present for the election. I t m a y b e re c a l l e d t h a t Shailendra Shinkre had resigned from the post of chairperson claiming that the chair was not respected by council members. He even had demanded for an action against one of the council members, failing which he had
vowed to resign from the post. He subsequently resigned, as no action was taken. Newly elected PMC Chairperson Pradip Naik thanked Home Minister Ravi Naik for all his support in getting him elected. “My victory is dedicated to Home Minister Ravi Naik and my fellow councillors. I will take up all the developmental works that are required in Ponda city under the guidance of Ravi Naik,” said Naik.
the gram sabhas and felt that the need for discipline in the gram sabhas and the panchayat institutions for effective functioning of the same. Fo r m e r C h i e f M i n i s t e r, Shashikala Kakodkar said, panchayats are grass root bodies and therefore they should function sincerely and honestly for the welfare of the common man. Re k i t a C o l a c o , D e p u t y Sarpanch of Chodan Panchayat was felicitated on the occasion at the hands of former Chief Minister Shashika Kakodkar for her long service in the panchayat raj institutions right from the inception of panchyati raj in the State. Executive Editor, Gomantak Times, Derek Almeida and Rekita Colaco also spoke on the occasion. Earlier, Executive Editor of Gomantak, Suresh Naik welcomed the gathering. Chief Editor of Sakal Group, Shri Uttam Kamble and Director of Sakal Group, Jaidev Mane were also present. Subhash Naik, Manager Gomantak Publications proposed the vote of thanks. Yuvarj Yadav compered the function.
Ration quota HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
10 kgs of rice and 2 kgs of wheat per card will be distributed during the month of May’ 2010 to APL cardholders for the month of May’ 2010. 35 kgs each of rice will be distributed by the families of Below Poverty Line and Antyodaya (AAY) categories families per card. Sugar will be distributed @ 500 grams per person per month to the families of Below Poverty Line (BPL), Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Annapurna (ANP) per month.
Crash course in languages
PANJIM(HND): Detroit Institute at Panjim will conduct crash courses in Portuguese, French and English for X and XII standards students starting from May 10. The course will cover the syllabus of Goa Board for X and XII standard students. Classes will be held daily and there will be 3 batches. Details are available on 9822131835.
POWER SHUTDOWN MAY 5 SANGOLDA: From 9 am to 5 pm. Areas affected are Devashree, Aisha construction, Shantadurga temple, Green hill, 20-point programme, Alua, Sangolda, Bhutki wado, Mae-de-deus T/C, Sangolda and Porvorim bazaar, Waddem Kharem and surrounding areas. VEREM: From 9 am to 5 pm. Areas affected are Verem market, Betim and surrounding areas. NAVELIM: From 9 am to 2 pm. Areas affected are Navelim, Talaulim, Nagmoddem, Sirvoddem, Ravora, Nalanda Apt, Butica. SHAPUR: From 7 am to 11 am. Areas affected are Military camp, Shapur, New bus stand, Ambegal, Hsg board, Pantatally.
MAY 6
PANJIM: Between 9 am to 5 pm. Areas affected on Souza Towers, Panjim Garden, Velho Felho, Club National, Paradise, Kasturbha High School, Progress High School, Panjim Church, Immaculate building and surrounding areas. PORVORIM: Between 9 am to 2 pm. Areas affected are Khana Khazana, PDA Colony, Tarun Bharat multigraphics, Teen building, O’Coqueiro, Resicom, Goa scan centre and Gauri apartment and surrounding areas. BETIM: Between 9 am to 5 pm. Areas affected are Baba tiles, Solmar Exotica, Betim and surrounding areas. ST CRUZ: Between 9 am to 2 pm. Areas affected are Vrundavan hospital, Segundo Bairo and surrounding areas of St Cruz. NERUL: Between 9 am to 5 pm. Areas affected are Baba Tiles, Solmar Exotica, Betim and surrounding areas.
MAY 7
PANJIM: Between 9 am to 5 pm. Areas affected are Sapna Centre, Panaji Mosque, Menino Residency, Nanu Enterprise Office, Singbal Book Stall, Jhon Paul Building, BSNL Office, CCP Office and Old Municipal Building, Cafe Central and surrounding areas. REIS MAGOS: Between 9 am to 5 pm. Areas affected are Kegdevelim, Reis Magos and surrounding areas. DONGRIM: Between 9 am to 5 pm. Areas affected are Cruz nagar, Beliem, Dongrim, Mandopa, Moddi, Telephone exchange, Shantinagar, Firgullem and surrounding areas.
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Gujarat police accepts Prajapati encounter was fake PTI AHMEDABAD, MAY 4
The Gujarat police has accepted as fake the encounter in which Tulsi Prajapati, a key witness in the Sohrabuddin Sheikh murder case, was killed, top state CID officials said. "We believed that his (Prajapati) encounter was fake. So, we investigated the case and found involvement of some police officers," CID crime chief V V Rabari told PTI. District Superintendent of Police (DSP) of Dahod and IPS officer Vipul Agarwal was arrested last night for his involvement in Parajapati's encounter killing. Another constable from Banaskantha district police Vinod Choudhary was also arrested today in connection with the encounter case from Palanpur. Prajapati was killed by Gujarat police in an encounter near Ambaji in Banaskantha district when he tried to escape from custody while being shifted from Rajasthan to Gujarat in December, 2006, DIG I M Desai, supervising the case, said investigation was on and more arrests would be made as the probe progresses.
The investigating officer in the case Dy SP R K Patel of CID said there were ten more persons involved in the case which include a police inspector Ashish Pandya who had actually fired the bullet that killed Prajapati. "We are trying to locate Pandya but he was nowhere to be found. In all, there are 12 accused in the case, out of which two have been arrested while 10 are absconding," Patel said. Gujarat police's earlier claim that Prajapati was killed in an encounter when the accused was trying to escape after firing at the personnel escorting him was challenged by the forensic laboratory report and the Railway Police. CBI, probing the fake encounter killing of Sohrabuddin and his wife Kausar Bi in November 2005 had sought from Gujarat police papers regarding the Parajapati encounter case. CBI had also sought forensic documents which had questioned the claims of Gujarat police that three people threw chilly powder on the police party escorting Prajapati back
to Rajasthan by train and got him released. They had also reportedly fired at the policemen on duty. However, Railway Police had reported that no chilly powder was thrown on the policemen escorting Prajapati and the weapon recovered from the deceased was declared by the Forensic Scientific Laboratory as "jammed" and unable to fire. The bullet injuries on the cops were believed by the experts as self-inflicted. CBI had registered a case last month against Gujarat police officials and members of Rajasthan ATS to probe the fake encounter killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh and Kausar Bi in 2005 on the directions of the Supreme Court. The apex court had came down heavily on Gujarat police for failing to conduct impartial investigations and attempting to "mislead" apex court by filing conflicting action taken reports (ATRs). Fifteen police officers, including four IPS officers DIG D G Vanzara, Rajkumar Pandyan, Dinesh M N and Abhay Chudasama, are behind bar in this case.
SC moved for NRI's voting rights PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
A PIL was filed in the Supreme Court today seeking voting rights for an estimated 50 lakh NRIs in various parts of the world. The petition filed by Ahammed Adiyottil, a Qatarbased NRI from Kerala, sought suitable amendments of the Representation of the People's Act to enable NRIs cast their votes. The petitioner submitted Section 19 and 20 of the Representation of the People's Act, 1950, deny NRIs from casting their votes on the basis that they are not ordinarily residents of India. According to the petitioner, though a Bill was introduced in Parliament in 2006 for granting voting rights to NRIs, the same was yet to see the light of the day. Adiyottil cited Article 326, which granted every citizen the right of vote subject, to buttress the claim that NRIs too, being citizens of the country, were entitled to vote during the elections.
Digvijay demands judicial probe into encounter
16 child labourers rescued from west Delhi
PTI ALIGARH, MAY 4
PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
Uttar Pradesh Congress incharge Digvijay Singh met with the family members of the army jawan, killed in an encounter in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr district, and demanded a judicial probe into it. 23-year-old Deepak, a Rajputana Rifles soldier, was killed in a shootout with police on May 1. Congress General Secretary Singh met with the bereaved family last evening and called for the judicial probe into the incident Meanwhile, residents of Bharery village of the district were angr y over the killing and claimed that it was a case of mistaken identity. Demanding a CBI probe into t h e e n c o u n t e r y e s t e rd a y, Deepak's father also asked the Chief of Army Staff General V K Singh to intervene in the matter. However, SSP Bulandshahr Nilesh Kumar said the encounter was not fake in any manner and expressed readiness to face any inquiry. Earlier, UP police had said that the army jawan was killed in a shootout on Saturday which followed when he along with an accomplice allegedly seized a private car after throwing out its driver from the moving vehicle and fired at police personnel when they tried to intercept the vehicle.
Sixteen child labourers have been rescued by authorities from a bakery unit in west Delhi. The rescue came yesterday during an operation launched in Rohini area by Delhi Government's Task Force on Elimination of Child Labour which consists of officials from Police, Labour Department and child rights NGO Bachpan Bachao Andolan (BBA). The children, in the age group of 9-14 years and mostly belonging to Bihar, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh, used to work in temperatures as high as 105 degrees which are important to increase the activity of yeast for formation of bread, the NGO said in a press statement here. At the time of rescue, half of the children were found to be working without gloves and masks. They used to work for more than 14 hours a day, it said. Deepak (name changed), said, "Because of the dense smoke in the factory, my eyes became sore. When things started getting worse, I was told to help in packing. I had to sit on the ground for more than eight hours at a stretch to earn Rs 20 a week". Chairperson of BBA R S Chaurasia said, "There were around 70 children working in this factory but most of them escaped as the information about the raid spread.
Foreign tourists under the umbrella shelter on a hot day with temperatures rising 42 degree Celsius in Jaipur on Tuesday.
Maintain status quo on green belt area: SC to UP govt PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
The Supreme Court today ordered maintainenance of status quo on halt to construction activities in the green belt of Lucknow city by Lucknow Development Authority which was restrained by the Allahabad High Court to carry out any futher work in the area. "Let there be a status quo on the premises relating to which the directions has been passed by the High Court," a bench headed by Justice Altamas Kabir said. It sought a response from Gomti Nagar Jan Kalyan Maha Samiti, on whose PIL the High Court had passed the order, and posted the matter for hearing on July 14. The High Court had on April
6 passed the order on a plea of the Samiti that environmental balance would be adversely affected if LDA was permitted to increase the total area of the Master Plan 2021. Attorney General G E Vahanvati, appearing for LDA, contended the High Court had committed a mistake in restraining it from carrying out construction work including fencing of the green area. "The grievance raised by the writ petitioners (in HC) have been redressed in as much as the land use of the area in question has been changed to parks, open space by a statutory notification issued by the state government," he said. He also said the High Court wrongly granted the final relief to the society at interim stage.
"Passing of such an interim order 5 years after approval of the Master Plan 2021 amounts to reviewing the finding of the High Court in earlier proceedings with respect to the matter in issue," he said. "The High Court has also directed to open the Lower Bandha road by the impugned interim order and by doing so the High Court has granted final relief to the petitioner at interim stage, which is impermissible in law," the petition said adding the opening of the road was not in the interest of the residents. LDA said the impugned order directed it to demolish the existing blockade which has been there since 2008 and no one had ever complained against the same.
You have seen Katrina Kaif mostly as a dumb beauty or just a show-piece in most of her films but get ready for some pleasant surprise! The latest hottest star of Bollywood is seriously considering an image makeover. After her amazing transformation in Prakash Jha’s ‘Raajneeti’, the actress is now all set for another sensational makeover. This time, the gorgeous actress will be seen in amazing dirt-biking stunts for Zoya Akhtar’s new film – ‘Running with the Bulls’. Although there are three amazing
stars in the film namely, Hrithik Roshan, Abhay Deol and Farhan Akhtar, but our
PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
With over 38 lakh cheque bounce cases clogging the courts, the Supreme Court has framed a series of guidelines for out-of-court settlement of the offence as in most instances the parties seek this after years of litigation. A bench of Chief Justices K G Balakrishnan and Justices P Sathasivam and J M Panchal clarified it was not making any legislation but was constrained to issue the guidelines as Section 147 of the Negotiable Instruments Act does not specify the timeframe within which the offence could be compounded (settled out of court). "So much so, that at present, a disproportionately large number of cases involving the dishonour of cheques is choking our criminal justice system, especially at the level of magistrates' courts. "As per the 213th Report of the Law Commission of India,
PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
A Delhi court today dismissed the bail application of the sole woman accused in the bulletproof jacket purchase scam case saying the investgation was still in initial stage. Additional Sessions judge O P Saini dismissed Laveena Gupta's application saying the investigation was still in initial stage and it would not be appropriate to allow her bail plea. Earlier, Laveena, one of the directors of the Anjani Technoclass Ltd, sought the bail on the ground of being a woman and said over 350 employees, working with the firm, have been "rendered orphan" due to closure of work in the factory engaged in production of defence
lady is unfazed. She will be seen contending with the boys in breath-taking dirtbiking stunt sequences. Being a perfectionist, Katrina has already started taking training for the same in Mumbai and later, there will be full-fledged training in Spain. “Yes, I need to learn how to ride a dirt bike and I am doing just that. The training has started in Mumbai and will continue in Spain, where the shoot is. This is an adventure for me. I have ridden light bikes, but I’ve never handled heavy ones. It’s not easy, but I am getting on nicely enough.”
equipment. However, CBI opposed the plea saying the investgation was at an initial stage and freeing the accused on bail will adversely affect the case. It also contended the case was sensitive as it pertained to a scam in connection with the jackets to be used by para-military forces. CBI had alleged Laveena, along with her husband R K Gupta, gave Rs 10 lakh as bribe to seek favour from a senior Home Ministry official Radhey Shyam Sharma. The court had on May one sent Sharma and two others, including Laveena's husband, to 14 days of judicial custody as the probe agency did not press for their further custodial interrogation in the
PTI BANGALORE, MAY 4
The Karnataka CID today said one of the victims in the Nityananada case was "in touch" with police and efforts were on to convince the person to give a statement "One victim is in touch with us", DIG CID Charan Reddy told reporters here today, but refused to divulge details. He said no one, except this victim, has come forward so far to record a formal statement and be questioned by the Investigating Officer in the case. Reddy said the victim was apprehensive of media exposure and urged them to be sensitive towards such matters. He said Nityananda had not denied having entered into reported non disclosure agreements with his devotees, relating to "learning and practice of tantric secrets", exposure to nudity and "close physical proximity and intimacy". However such an agreement could not perhaps help him. "There can be no enforced contract on illegal activities. But we will consult experts on the contract". He said the Tamil actress reportedly seen in a compromising position with the godman in a video clipping, has not yet presented herself for examination in response to notices sent to her. Notices had been sent to
case. Sharma, an Indian Railway and Engineering Officer of 1984 batch, is accused of accepting Rs 10 lakh as bribe in the purchase of bullet-proof jackets for central paramilitary forces. Sharma, Gupta and his wife Laveena are booked under various penal provisions dealing with giving and accepting bribe and conspiracy. Sharma has also been charged with misconduct on the part of a public servant. According to CBI, the MHA official allegedly developed a "nexus" with some private firms, including that owned by the Gupta duo, involved in the supply of 59,000 bulletproof jackets for paramilitary forces.
Togadia warns UPA govt on reservation PTI BANGALORE, MAY 4
VHP International Secretary Praveen Togadia today warned the UPA government against any moves to provide religious reservation to Muslims and Christians, saying such a step would deprive Hindus of employment opportunities. "The proposed move by the UPA government to provide 10 per cent religious reservation to Muslims and Christians will adversely impact the Hindu community by depriving them of the emploment opportunities," he told a press conference here. The Congress would be a big loser if it resorts to this move
more than 38 lakh cheque bouncing cases were pending before various courts in the country as of October 2008. This is putting an unprecedented strain on our judicial system," the bench said in an order. According to the guidelines, (a) directions can be given by court that the Writ of Summons be suitably modified making it clear to the accused that he could make an application for compounding of the offences at the first or second hearing of the case and that if such an application is made, compounding may be allowed by the court without imposing any costs on the accused. (B) if the accused does not make an application for compounding, then if an application for compounding is made before the magistrate at a subsequent stage, compounding can be allowed subject to the condition that the accused will be required to pay 10% of the cheque amount to be deposited as a
condition for compounding with the Legal Services Authority or such authority as the court deems fit. (C) similarly, if the application for compounding is made before the sessions court or a High Court in revision or appeal, such compounding may be allowed on condition that the accused pays 15 per cent of the cheque amount by way of costs. (D) finally, if the application for compounding is made before the Supreme Court, the figure would increase to 20% of the cheque amount. The apex court also said high courts should impose heavy costs on those who file multiple cases arising out of a single transaction like bouncing of cheques issued in EMI-related transactions. But before imposing the penalty, an opportunity should be given to the complaint to transfer all the cases to one competent court of jurisdiction, the apex court said.
One of victims in Nityananda case in touch with police: CID
Court dismisses bail plea of sole woman accused in jacket scam
Delicate Katrina learning dirt-biking stunts for new film AGENCIES MUMBAI, May 4
SC's guidelines on compounding cheque bounce cases
as millions of youth would go against it, he said.
her through her advocates. The advocates of the actress have denied that she was seen in the video. Asked if Nityananda would be put through a potency test, he said a decison would be taken after the victims give a statement. He was evasive on whether Nityananda had requested for any such test, stating a request by the accused did not hold much significance. To a query on whether the gender of the accused made any difference to the case,he said the usual line of investigation
in a sexual asasult case was to check whether the assault actually took place and then to examine if the accused was capable of committing it. Reddy said they have received the interim report of CDs seized at the godman's ashram at Bidadi, sent to the Forensic Sciences Lab for examination, but refused to share details, saying it was crucial to investigation. He said police are currently not looking at sending a team abroad to visit Nityananda's ashrams. "We do not need to visit the ashrams now, but are willing to record the statement of any witness when they visit India", he said. Police have already shared details with central agencies on financial transactions carried out by Nityananda, he said. The self-styled godman landed in a controversy in March after TV channels telecast purported video footage showing him in a compromising position with a Tamil actress. He was arrested at Solan in Himachal Pradesh on April 21, ending his more than a month-long elusive run.
HE RA LD GOA, WEDNESDAY, 5 MAY, 2010
Pg7 NDA CMs accuse Centre of hampering development PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
Chief Ministers of two NDA ruled states today accused the Centre of adopting a non-cooperative attitude towards states where UPA partners are not in power and hampering the process of development. “If you are ruling at the Centre and your party is not in power in state, it does not mean you will try to obstruct the functioning of the state government,” Bihar Chief Minister and JD-U leader Nitish Kumar said addressing a function here. He said “the coalition at the Centre should not disturb the coalition of the states and should not nurture the greed to finish the other coalition to form a government of its own.” Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan from BJP alleged that a number of development schemes in his state are pending due to obstructions put by the Centre. “We were going ahead with the construction of Maheshwar dam. All of a sudden a letter came from Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh asking for halting the work. I have been making rounds of Delhi Durbar since then but to no avail.
No delay in tender process: IAF PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
The IAF has said there would be no delay in finalising the USD 11-billion 126 combat aircraft deal even though the two-year deadline for the bids submitted by six global aerospace majors ended last week. “As far as the process (finalising the tenders) is concerned, it is well on track as was visualised,” IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal P V Naik said here on the sidelines of a function to unveil a portrait of Marshal of Air Force Arjan Singh at the Akash Mess yesterday. Naik said the process of evaluating the six contenders for the ‘mother of all deals’ would take time and it was not an easy task. “I am very happy and proud of our people, who have done this (evaluation) on time. They will finish off (the flight and weapons trials) by end of May. It will be a delay of about five or ten days. Our evaluation, testing is on schedule,” he said, when asked if the deadline extension would delay the procurement process. For the tenders floated in August 2007, US majors Lockheed Martin and Boeing, Russian RAC MiG, French D’Assault, Swedish SAAB and European consortium EADS had submitted their bids.
J&K cops identify 21 infiltration routes PTI JAMMU, MAY 4
With infiltration showing upward curve, Jammu and Kashmir Police has identified 21 major infiltration routes of militants along Indo-Pak border in the state. "We have surveyed and identified 21 major infiltration routes along Indo-Pak border...This will help security agencies to pin down infiltrating militants...," a senior police officer told PTI. "These routes have been identified along the LoC and International Border in Kathua, Samba, Jammu, Rajouri, Poonch, Baramulla, Bandipora and Kupwarain districts," he said. "The militants are taking advantage of thick woods, dry nallahs, riverine and zero populated areas to infiltrate from PoK to Jammu and Kashmir," the official said. These infiltration routes include Pathri Gali, Sobra Gali, Fugwari belt, Bachoo belt -- in Poonch; Panjtali belt, Gagrian route -- in Jammu; Baber belt in Samba and Bain Nallah in Kathua, he said, adding that most of these routes have been put under three-tier security setup by Army, police and VDC/border posts. The official said there are 25 terrorist training camps-- 21 along LoC and four along IB -in Pakistan where around 1,5601,615 militants are undergoing training with support from the Special Operation Intelligence Unit of Pakistan army. There are reports of presence of 300 militants in Goi-KahutaChirat belt, 1,50,155 in KotliSensa belt, 400 in Mirpur-Bindi, 260-265 in Samani-KudialiGarnum belt and 450 in SailkoteZafarwala belt, the officer said.
OHERALDO
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OPINION
Pg8
www.oheraldo.in
O HERALD O
Blame it on Rio
Vol No CX No: 116 Goa, Wednesday 5 May, 2010
Giving handicrafts a hand
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n Monday evening, at a function that was attended by hardly anyone other than government officials, chequedistribution beneficiaries and a handful of media-persons, the Goa government unveiled some publicity material meant to promote Goan handicrafts. One of the items put out is a Delhi City Metro Guide Map. What’s the logic of Goa Handicrafts distributing metro maps of the capital city, one might ask? Officials argue that with the Commonwealth Games expected soon, a lot of visitors are expected in Delhi. Piggybacking on the need for information in Delhi, the Goa Handicrafts-Aparanta network is seeking to spread its own message, about the richness of Goa’s own handicraft talent. Will this work? Even if visitors some 2000 kms away get the message, would it result in any real benefit—or sales—for artisans and their work here? Your guess is as good as ours. But occasions like this are at least an opportunity to take a closer look at a long-neglected sector in Goa: local handicrafts. Let’s not get down to simply blaming the government for this reality. Every section of society is guilty of ignoring the true worth of Goa’s handicrafts. There are few quarters through which to market local handicrafts. Unfortunately, even we in the media don’t consider this slow-unfolding story to be ‘newsy’ enough to warrant much attention. Having said that, the documentary film on Goa handicrafts that the GHRSSIDC Ltd has recently commissioned appears to be a very interesting initiative. Not just is it well done, and neatly narrated, but this short 30-minute documentary manages to highlight the wealth and diversity of handicrafts in Goa. It includes both Indian and foreign influences. Put together, this makes it more than clear that ours is a State which has so much to be proud about on the handicrafts front. But just putting together a documentary at Rs 14.5 lakh is not enough. The challenge is now before the officials of the awkwardly-named Goa Handicrafts, Rural & Small Scale Industries Development Corporation Ltd to make sure this documentary has the maximum impact. It needs to virally spread through as many quarters as possible, so that the work of the humble artisan of Goa gets noticed in places it should. The GHRSSIDC has also come out with a brochure on handicrafts in Goa. But it needs to do a lot more in making these more visible. Where are the artisans who produce the same? Can they be directly contacted by those interested in doing business with them? After all, GHRSSIDC need not be the only channel through which their products are sold. Another Goa government scheme which took a step forward earlier this week was subsidy to Ganesh statue makers, who use mud for their work. Subsidies are often justified as the only available route for a government to promote its priorities. But, the many subsidies that successive Goa governments have been unveiling in recent years are contentious in nature, at best. It may be welcome to the recipient, and the minister doling out the same might hope that this would turn into votes some day. But does it really help in achieving State goals?
G
Hill-cutters
oa government has finally promised action—by way of flying squads, in north and south Goa—over illegal hillcutting and filling low-lying land. These issues have been of considerable concern to the citizen for some time now. The delay in taking action is unjustifiable. But then, it’s an open secret that the persons involved are often politically-influential individuals, if not politicians themselves. Those indulging in such activities have links from Statelevel politics to the village. As long as it doesn’t act, the government’s intentions are on test. Every citizen can see the impact of such activities, visible to the naked eye. More than visible, it’s an eyesore.
Who is responsible for the evils that prevail in our society? wonders PETER FERNANDES
A
good leader takes a little more than his share of the blame, a little less than his share of the credit. However, it is no secret that most of the time, when people point out the misdeeds of our politicians, and blame them for the woes faced by the residents of the state or country, in no uncertain terms, our politicians, instead of humbly acknowledging their follies, end up attacking their critic, even to the point of intimidating and threatening their lives. Politicians, particularly those in power, have a penchant to portray themselves as flawless; who never commit mistakes. When their wrongdoing is manifested, they still will not accept the responsibility. They “blame it on Rio.” They hammer away and strike at those who expose their illegal and immoral actions. Gullible people swallow their pill of deception, and the politicians grow obstinate with each passing day, thus denying the truth, and living in obscurity to hide their transgressions against the community. In view of the past history of our civilization, such a scenario does possess a great danger for the advancement of our society, and the clearing away of the dirty political machinery. “A man may fall many times, but he won’t be a failure until he says someone pushed him.” This is the vicious sort of breed we have for our leaders. Corruption in our society and in every possible department of the government is an open secret, not to be fussed about as novelty. The common people have accepted it as a norm or perhaps, even to an extent of the law, which they know they cannot avoid, but must pay a bribe as a fee for the work done or undone by the bureaucrats, or government officials. Therefore, a question arises. Who created this worm, which is feasting on anything and everything? Without our realization, which is foolishness to say, it is corroding the society systematically. Yet, there seems to be no weapon to kill this worm. If someone should point out this malady to our elected representatives, they at once become furious, as if they have never been defiled by such a worm. However, the person who questioned the politicians receives threats to his life, and is told to shut his mouth. It is very naive of me to ask if any of the elected leaders believe that they are untouched by corruption. If there is one in our government who is above the ordinary mire, does he have the audacity and courage to denounce corruption publicly? Or, should we then be content with this sadistic and arrogant breed, who will continue to “blame it on Rio.” Therefore, we have to ask a vital question about
Revitalising Goan Society the ills in our society. Who is responsible? First, the horrible condition of our roads - a source of merciless death in recent past for hundreds of our citizens is a grave concern. The politicians glaringly make their presence for the inauguration of a road, or for a new hot mix, but months later when the road shows cracks and potholes, they find a scapegoat in the contractors. However, ten to 15 percent of the tender is amassed by these politicians, and the contractor is left with little, forcing him to use cheap material for construction, thus endangering the lives of the motorists and pedestrians alike. Who is responsible for the garbage menace? Is the garbage hazard a myth or a reality? The sublime nature and the laudable beauty of Goa’s surroundings are now painted with filth and trash. The politicians hold the populace accountable for not allowing them to build a garbage processing plant. How absurd! They placed the cart before the horse! Before taking bribes from every tom, dick and harry, to permit the unbridled construction and development, it was essential to place the proper infrastructure to regulate and control the influx. Who is responsible for the abuse of drugs and
Time Travails
the resulting violence? Rave parties are an inthing in Goa. Drugs are sold at ease to our youngest with the blessings of our ministers. Of late, every tourism season has been marred by unwanted news. It has been noticed by national and international media that drug-related crimes have escalated beyond our imagination. So many young girls, both natives, as well as visitors, have fallen prey to this madness created by our greedy leaders. A sobering fact is that Goa has become a safe haven for the Russian mafia and the Israelites, to rule the drug world. Who is responsible for allowing mining lobbies to thrive at the cost of destroying villages and the abundant natural world? If one mining company is making more than the total revenue collected by government from the citizens, it is self-explanatory. The miners believe they own the government and the people of Goa. In fact, our leaders sold us to the mine lords long ago. The mining trucks have no respect for the laws of traffic, nor for the lives of the pedestrians and commuters. This is simply because they enjoy the comradeship of our elected representatives who have become their puppets. There are many more serious situations, which
It’s a Terror Stricken World
S
peaking about the growing menace of Terrorism, I’m tempted to pen the profile of terrorists that I encounter in my mundane life. Mind you, I go well armed, or at least my head does. With a helmet, I feel, like a horse with blinkers, with a one ton stone on my head, but the positive side is I learn to take life head strong. I normally encounter the first bunch of terrorists, in uniform, a la Amitabh, Sahebs in Raybans and Reeboks, hiding at some bend of a road, or behind tall trees or better still in potholes. They take you unawares, they jump out and pounce and tear you apart, threatening you with a slip of challan. As your head reels, the guy behind you speeds off. Well, you are entitled, in fact advised, to remain silent, anything that you speak will be used against you. Well, if you’ve survived the first encounter, meet the next set of terrorists they are termed ‘Public servants’. Kindly permit me to
make certain clarification. They are not the servants but rather the instruments with absolute public sanction to convert you into not only an obedient, obliging servant, but into a full-fledged slave. You’ll be trotting to their door steps with your file, as if it’s not a file but a begging bowl. The torture is X degree. Within a short span of time you loose your dignity, your sanity and finally your identity. You are terrorized by their speech, their body language and their style of operation. You are in fact turned into a dumb rat, squeaking , scurrying and negotiating and immediately giving in to their demands, without protest, verbally or in writing. Then you have the public transport wallas- they are the lord and God of the roads. They terrorize you and shrink your size- mentally, but more so physically so that another ten can be canned beside you. They abuse, curse and set their tongues loose. While there are others who are core fuddy-duddies who set their hands loose
need to be confronted and brought to the attention of the public. Politicians say this is media hype. Could it be that they are afraid to tackle the reality of their own creation? The responsibility of the media is to report the reality, and compel the citizens to awareness of our condition! Who is responsible for these evils in our society? Is it the people? I don’t think so. Is it the godman? It too is corrupt, though we could call on some deities to redress the wrong done by its followers. Is it the evil spirits? We could call the gaddies to do some rituals. Ultimately we know! There is no doubt about these politicians of ours who will not own up to any responsibility, but “blame it on Rio.” Satyendra Dubey was murdered in Gaya, Bihar after fighting corruption in the Golden Quadrilateral Highway Construction Project. He was a noble soul, who fought fearlessly corruption, with every ounce of his energy to make it right, never succumbing to this evil, even to the point of death. Although, his accusers are finally brought to justice, the question lingers, how many more noble souls must shed their blood to wipe out this evil from our society. As a project director at the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), he was exposed to the highest level of corruption. This he could not accept, and he lost sleep over it, as he tried his best to take correct measures, but it was all in vain. As a final resort, he wrote a letter to then Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and a copy of the same to the chairman of the NHAI. It is sad, but true, that NHAI cautioned Dubey for impropriety in writing the letter directly to the Prime Minister, instead of cleaning the system from corruption. Subsequently, they forged a master conspiracy to silence the voice of truth. The recent massacre of journalists in the Philippines bespeaks of the dark forces operating in our society. The incumbent governor employed his cronies to dismantle the aspiration of the opposition, even before he could register his candidacy papers. The frenzied violence of thugs working for corrupt politicians resulted in an incomprehensible bloodbath, resulting in the deaths of over thirty people, among them twelve journalists. David Dadge had this to say, “This is a senseless slaughter....It is the work of journalists to report on political campaigns on behalf of the public. By acting in this way, these individuals have shown that they not only stand outside of democracy but also outside of humanity.” Who is responsible? Do we still “blame it on Rio”?
By Smitha Bhandare Kamat
which go straying in wrong nooks and corners. There is nothing you can do about these guerrilla attacks, except pray that the gorilla next to you is tranquilized for good. Closer home, you may have neighbours with their backyards and backsides emitting foul odours. You have friends who can snap your purse strings open, and negate the bank balance in a jiffy, but no one and nothing can compete with a two-year-old terrorist in your very home, right under your nose. He can blow the roof top, he has mines placed at all the strategic spots in the house. He has arms that come flying in any direction, and can hit anytime, anywhere, any how. He is well equipped with the latest technology and lingo, and the little monster appears to be a hybrid version of Naxals, Maos, Quidas and what have you, all rolled in one. But, when he smiles and hugs me all his past records are wiped clean. Oops, I simply can’t help falling for this little terror and his ways.
Letters to the Editor Grain liquor Vincent H. Fernandes, Arrosim
Khorjuem. This 305-year-old fort was built by the Portuguese in 1705 and is one of the only 2 inland forts made of pitted laterite. In the 18th century, it protected the Portuguese from the Bhosles, Ranes, Rajputs and others. Today, it is very sad to see the fort in bad condition. The site is not maintained at all as one can see plants and wall creepers all over the walls of the fort. It is just neglected and left to be turned to its ruins. Is the Goa government sleeping? What are the Heritage Department and the local MLA doing? It is the MLA’s duty to report the matter before the Heritage Department of Goa. Is the government least bothered to inspect the site? The fort bears a testimony of the strong and well-disciplined Portuguese rule in Goa. It is a heritage monument and we have to protect it at any cost.
The article ‘Grain liquor crisis’ by Prabhakar Kulkarni (Herald, 27 April) is worth reading and very informative. Liquor was used as a substitute to medicines since the Stone Age, but at present in the name of development, the present government at the Centre has given approval to produce liquor from food grains. When the price rise in essential commodities has brought misery to casual workers and poor people, 1.4 million tones of food grains which would feed 9.3 million people would be consumed to produce 500 million litres of grain liquor. The government has reduced the rice quota to 5 kg and wheat 2 kg per ration card holder to divert the food grains to liquor factory to benefit the relatives of the politicians and the rich? Is it to substitute liquor for food?
Vanxim sand extraction
Khorjuem fort in bad shape
Jeron Fernandes, Divar
Lasdun D’Souza, Nachinola The Khorjuem Fort is a major attraction in
100 Years Ago
PRIMEIRO DIARIO NAS COLONIAS PORTUGEZAS
5 May, 1910 • There are reports which states that the repairs of the historic Castle and the Billets of the garrison at Diu are nearing its completion. • The public has complained to the authorities that during the nights the negroes, residents of Tonca are waylaying passersby in order to rob while on their return back home to Caranzalem or Taleigao. • The English medium school from Arpora under the direction of Fr. Lyons is to be relocated to the Village of Parra. • A Society of nuns is to purchase a house at the Parish of Parra to establish an Anglo-Portuguese school meant for women only.
It is very heartening to note that our Village Panchayat of Sao Mathias, Malar and our local Panch of Vanxim, Mr Manuel Kaudo are least bothered in stopping the illegal sand extraction taking place rampantly near Vanxim in the Mandovi River since 6 months. Over 70 boats extract the sand regularly and this is all with the knowledge of the Panchayat and Panch who do nothing to stop this illegal trade, whether people get proper sleep due to this illegal activity which is carried throughout the night and day as far as their coffers are filled with illegal loot. And who cares about soil erosion! I wonder whether there exists any authority who is responsible in stopping such illegalities.
MMC buildings Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco It was by providence that there were no casualties when the roof of a bar collapsed at Baina. Even then the incident did cause injuries to two children. It is understood that the premises of the bar and restaurant belongs to the Mormugao Municipality and is leased out for business. In this context it must be said that the municipal building in the market place where there are several shops and houses the huge clock, which is
Letter of the Day
Are we Indians in spirit?
Kajal Chatterjee, Kolkata
Kudos to Mr. Caetano De Abreu for his extremely relevant article “Aren’t we all racists”? (3 May). It is high time we ponder over our “Indian-ness” and indulge in a little stock-taking whether we are at all entitled to accuse only the Australians as “racist”. The vitriolic comments of the Thackerays and their hooliganism over the North Indians in Mumbai were not the only instance of racism and regionalism in India. Kashmiri Pandits are leading a horrible life in the Jammu camps after being driven out from the Valley. New Delhi (1984) and Gujarat (2002) not only witnessed pogroms against the Sikhs and Muslims respectively, families of innumerable victims are yet to get justice and umpteen culprits are still at large. Babri Masjid was not only barbarically demolished, the violent riots following that episode burnt Mumbai for months. Whenever a new dispute crops up revolving sharing of Cauvery water, Tamils get physically assaulted in Karnataka. In the recent past, Christians and churches were under attack in Orissa. Didn’t Assam see a bloody violence against Bengalis in the early seventies? Migrant labourers are regularly being killed in Manipur. Just a few years ago, New Delhi police issued a circular which directly infringed upon the attire and food habits of the students hailing from the North East and living in the national capital. Being Indians, the North East students had every right to eat and dress according to their choice or taste while living in New Delhi. By virtue of which moral or Constitutional authority did the administration try to put a bar on the culture of Nagas or Manipuris? Also we should not forget the series of physical or sexual assaults perpetrated against the North-Easterners in New Delhi and its peripheries. And the less said about rampant casteism and caste conflicts in North India the better, whereby people are even murdered for daring to marry outside caste! Still we continue to sing paeans of India’s “liberalism” without confronting the reality. Lastly, right from issuing tickets during a panchayat/Municipal election to selecting Prime Ministers/Presidents of India; not sheer merit, but the language, religion and caste of the prospective candidates become determinant factors. Thus it is high time we introspect a little and answer to our conscience as to whether we are Indians in spirit. Condemn the Thackerays in the harshest way possible but also acknowledge and fight against the existence of thousands of other racist elements who are hell-bent on dividing humanity on the basis of all possible denominations. And, instead of accusing others of practicing “racism”, Indians should at first learn to clean up its own backyard else India will end up as a classic case of “pot calling the kettle black”. not functioning, is in a very dilapidated condition., the parapet of the building, which was built during the Portuguese regime, is falling down in bits and pieces. This area of the Vasco market happens to be the most crowded place and it is just a matter of time before someone gets seriously injured because of the falling debris. It may be recalled that a couple of years back during the monsoon, a temporary shed put on the roof-top of the building, to prevent water leakage, came down dam-
aging a few cars parked on the road. It is high time the Mormugao Municipal Council takes necessary steps to repair its buildings which have been leased out for business purposes before someone gets seriously injured and probably even cause death as a result of the falling debris.
Betraying one’s country Willie Severes, Majorda In passing on crucial information to Pakistan,
Madhuri Gupta has committed one of the worst possible offences that an Indian can be guilty of. The fact that an IFS officer in possession of sensitive information should spy for Pakistan for so long without being detected also indicates how inadequate the Indian security system is. It is most likely that the lure of money prompted her to pass on secrets. But, Gupta claimed that her betrayal was from the anger at the way IFS B-grade officers were treated by IFS. The External Affairs Ministry might have tried to wave the matter aside, saying that the information passed on to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence by Gupta, can do little harm. The Pakistan government, meanwhile, remains quiet, saying that the matter is India’s internal problem. If Gupta is found guilty, she should be brought to trial and severely punished.
Flying squads Stephen Dias, Dona Paula District Magistrate of South Goa banned road digging by 5 months from June 1, to Oct 30, 2010, and directed that all the works to be completed before the onset of monsoons. And in another important development the State Government decided to constitute a flying squad to look after the illegal hillcutting and filling of low-lying land in both the districts. This decision was well taken in response of GBA (Goa Bachao Abhiyan) and the village groups. Similarly, it is pertinent to note that the Government of Goa should immediately constitute an another “Two Flying Squads” which can be called as Flying Squads Level- A, B, and C in order to come to the rescue of Goans; Flying squad Level-A will be monitoring illegal cutting and filling of low lying land, second squad will take care of road digging and repairs plus illegal constructions and the third squad will be restricted to stray dogs and “stray politicians”. The most important is, once the report is formulated, the DM should be able to take penal action and stop these illegal activities which are vital for the welfare of Goans. These Flying Squads should be active and not merely on the paper.
Paths of Wisdom
Give up attachment
Once upon a time, there lived a beautiful and charming princess in Greece. She was not only beautiful but also adept in shooting, hunting and running. In fact, she had earned the title of “the fleetfooted princess.” Many handsome and heroic princes desired to win her heart and hand. So, the princess hit upon a clever plan. She announced that she would marry the young man who would beat her in a foot race. The young warriors came to race with her but she always out-ran them. One young hero was bent upon outrunning her. He sought the advice of a wise man, who explained to him about the fleet-footed princess and her challenge. The young hero expressed his regret over the fact that many young warriors were being put to shame by the princess. The wise man said: “Don’t worry, you take within your pocket several shining pieces of jewellery and gems. As you run, go on dropping one piece after another on the racing track at strategic points.” On the day fixed for the race, the young man equipped himself with fine pieces of jewellery. The young man and the princess started running. Both of them were good runners. Whenever the princess was on the point of outstripping him, the young man would softly drop a dazzling piece of jewellery. The princess spontaneously stopped to pick up the lovely piece of jewellery that was after all on the racing track, confident that in spite of the halts she would be able to outrun her rival. These brief but frequent halts made him reach the goal ahead of her. Thus the young man won the race as well as the heart and the hand of the princess. If we want success in life, we have to give up attachment and be prepared to sacrifice what we have as the young man did. (Courtesy : Stories and parables “Oka Chinna Katha”)
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Stir paralyses Mumbai, 20 motormen dismissed 170 taken into custody PTI MUMBAI, MAY 4
Suburban train services, the lifeline of Mumbai, remained paralysed for the second day today due to strike by motormen, 20 of whom were dismissed from service for refusing to report for work to press their demand for wage hike. The western and eastern express highways were jammed with commuters opting for road transport to reach their destination. Railway authorities said only 20 per cent suburban trains were operating today as a result of the hunger strike by motormen demanding hike in pay scales and allowances. “Ten motormen each from Central and Western railways have been dismissed as they refused to work,” railway officials said here. Assistant General Manager, Central Railway, Sunil Arya said around 12 strikers have
been detained by police as they declined to join duty. Maharashtra Home Minister R R Patil said the state government has taken up the matter with the Centre, seeking its intervention to provide relief to Mumbai commuters. The state government is also considering if provisions of Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) could be invoked in this case, he said. Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan has called an emergency meeting to discuss the situation arising out of the motormen’s strike. Police, railway and transport officials will attend the meeting, official sources said. Chavan had yesterday met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and sought the Centre’s intervention to end the strike, the sources said. The Chief Minister had also spoken to Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee and requested her to take stringent action
against the striking motormen, they said. “The salary and allowance hike demand by motormen is unlawful because they are getting salary as per the sixth pay commission” recommendations, they said. Meanwhile, at least 170 striking motormen were taken into custody today at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) here on charges of unlawful assembly and obstructing rail employees from reporting to their duties. “About 170 motormen have been taken into custody for the offence of unlawful assembly. We have deployed adequate police force at all the stations in Western and Central Railway to avoid any violent situation,” Government Railway Police (GRP) Commissioner Tukaram Chavan told PTI. The motormen taken into custody will be subsequently arrested, he said.
How Mumbaikars translated nightmare into holiday PTI MUMBAI, MAY 4
The famous ‘Mumbai spirit’ came handy once again last night as railway motormen struck work and left the lakhs of commuters in lurch. By seven-ish in the evening trains had almost stopped plying. Those who boarded the locals hoping that they would chug out instead had to face a sweltering and a sweating crowd! “It was extremely mean on the part of motormen as they worked in the first half and allowed the people to reach their destinations. This compounded the problem as they struck work big time in the evening only to leave the same swathes of commuters stranded at all suburban stations in the mega polis,” said Vikram Deshmukh, an exasperated commuter. Anxious family members kept calling each other to keep themselves posted about the whereabouts of the near and dear ones. In no time, Mumbai was going mad venting anger and abuses at the striking rail staff.
40% taxis stay off road PTI MUMBAI, MAY 4
The situation for the commuters, already harrowed by the motormen strike, just got worse as 40 per cent of the city taxis stayed off the roads today. A large number of the city taxis are off the road today as most of the taxi drivers living in suburban Mumbai could not reach their work place, Mumbai taxi union leader A L Quadros told PTI. “Most of the taxi drivers reside in suburbs and they could not come to town to run the taxis. Therefore, 40 per cent of the 40,000 taxis are off the road today,” Quadros said.
But are not the gusty Mumbaikars known for their never-say-die attitude...the famous Mumbai spirit, which helps it spring back to its feet and life braving all odds and adversities? Rains, strikes or deluge, long live the Mumbai spirit! So how could they be cowed down by just not being ferried back to their destinations? People of the city awake 24X7 believe in workhard-and-party-harder mantra. This unheralded, mandatory holiday of sorts provided one such occasion. It proved to be a blessing in disguise for those who otherwise have to slog it out round-theclock. Mumbaikars took to merriment with a vengeance. Movie theatres, pubs, hotels, clubs, did a brisk business as they were unusually choc-a-bloc with stranded commuters who were left with no where to go and had to take refuge in these places. Those who could afford and decided to take a cab back home were caught in the snarl traffic moving at snail’s pace. The roads were busting to its seams due to crippled train services. Even BEST had pressed in its entire fleet to abate the commuters woes. Unwittingly it also added some! People adopted the mode of transport they could lay their hands on. While some hitched a ride, other over enthusiasts climbed trucks, tippers, tempos to travel. Taxi and auto rickshaw drivers had a field day charging the desperate-to-reach-home Mumbaikars, extra. While some office-goers were held back at their workplaces... blessed few were invited by their caring colleagues and friends to their places. “We all colleagues too had a gala time... Got a lot of time to spend together and bond. Our hectic schedules scarcely provide us with such an opportunity,” said Ashfaque Khan, who translated this otherwise nightmare into a dream after being hit by the motormen strike.
CRZ notification concept note in 10 regional languages From our Bureau NEW DELHI, MAY 4
Within ten days of publishing the draft amendments to the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) notification of 1991, the Environment Ministry has published on its website the concept note on the proposed changes in ten languages, including Konkani, Marathi, Telugu and Gujarati. The exercise is to enable the local people, particularly fishermen who are affected, to understand the proposed changes in their own mother tongue. The actual amendments are, however, yet to be published in all the languages of the coastal states as they are now available in only five regional languages,
besides English. These are: Telugu, Gujarati, Hindi, Bengali and Tamil. The Ministry sources said translation in other languages is taking time but they hope to mount the amendments in the remaining six languages within a week or so. The amendments proposed may take yet another three or four months before they come into force as the ministry has invited suggestions from public and NGOs within 60 days on the draft notification before finalising it to replace the 1991 notification. This is for the second time that the suggestions have been invited on amendments in the 1991 CRZ notification as an ex-
pert group headed by noted agriculture scientist Swaminathan has already examined the suggestions made earlier in the draft notification issued in 2008. The government has now trashed the 2008 draft and moved the 2010 draft as recommended by the Swaminathan group. The proposed amendments provide for rules for construction of beach hotels and resorts and have special regulation in case of Goa and Mumbai. The amendments and a concept note on them are available on the ministry's website <moef.nic.in> in English and other coastal languages.
University allows students to complete exams PTI MUMBAI, MAY 4
Mumbai University students reaching late for their exams owing to the ongoing motormen strike were today allowed to appear for their papers and were given the full stipulated three hours to complete it. We anticipated that there could be late arrivals of students for their exams and instructed all the 170 centres from Mumbai to Ratnagiri to allow extra time to students who arrived late, University controller of examinations Vilas Shinde told PTI. Students in three centres arrived late by two hours and were given full three hours to write their exams, he said. “The university conducted five major exams and 26 diploma exams today. Ten thousand students appeared for the exams,” he said. Yesterday, the university conducted 40 examinations and because of the disruption of suburban rail services students walked in late in several centres, Shinde said adding that no exams are scheduled on Wednesday and Thursday. Meanwhile, students complained that they had a tough time returning home yesterday after their exams.
People travelling on a special train following the strike of motormen of Mumbai suburban rail at Dadar station in Mumbai on Tuesday.
Strike resonates in Lok Sabha PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
The strike by Railway employees in Mumbai today strongly resonated in the Lok Sabha with members, including those from Congress, expressing support to the agitation and targeting Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee for failing to avert the situation. Tempers ran high and Trinamool Congress leader Sudip Bandopadhyay shouted at CPI(M) leader Basudeb Acharia who, along with members of Shiv Sena, BJP, RJD and Congress, was insisting on immediate response from Banerjee. The Railway Minister was not present in the House as she is in Kolkata in connection with municipal polls. Nothing could be heard in the din that followed Bandopadhyay’s attack on Acharia. Several members were seen rushing towards the Trinamool leader to pacify him. In the meanwhile, Speaker Meira Kumar adjourned the House at 12.30 pm till 2 pm. The issue was raised by Shiv Sena as Zero Hour started, with its members trooping into the well. Carrying placards, they chanted slogans like “Mumbai ki local train chalu karo, nahi to sansad nahi chalega (resume services of Mumbai local trains, otherwise the House will not run).” Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal said he would convey the sentiments to Banerjee. This, however, did not satisfy the members and they continued to shout slogans. Sensing the mood, the Speaker allowed leaders of parties to speak on the issue and an impromptu discussion ensued. The members who spoke on the issue were Anant Geete (Shiv Sena), Sanjay Nirupam (Congress), Gopinath Munde (BJP), Basudeb Acharia (CPI-M), Sanjeev Naik (NCP), Gurudas Dasgupta
(CPI), Sudip Bandopadhyay (Trinamool) and Lalu Prasad (RJD). Barring Bandopadhyay, all other members said the notice for agitation had been given months back and questioned why the Railway Minister did not do anything to avert the situation. Responding to their concerns, Bansal said he would soon “get in touch” with Banerjee to convey the sentiments of the House. “I will try to ensure that a statement is made at the earliest possible,” he said. He said those members who have “influence” on the striking employees should use it to ensure the stir ends. Earlier, initiating the discussion, Geete said suburban train network is the “lifeline” of Mumbai and the strike had brought the city to a grinding halt as 65 lakh people travel by it every day. He warned that the situation could lead to riots as travellers were stranded and on the roads since last night. “If riots take place, the entire responsibility will be on the Railway Ministry,” Geete said. Bandopadhyay said Banerjee was in West Bengal as it was the last day for filing of nominations for the civic polls. He said he would convey the sentiments to her and she would respond, triggering vociferous protests from opposition members. “If the Railway Minister can be contacted, she will respond,” the Trinamool leader said. He said the issue was raised by Geete in the House last week and he had conveyed it to the Railway Minister. Banerjee later called Shiv Sena leader Anandrao Adsul for discussions and as a result a four-member committee had been formed and Railway Board official deputed for holding talks, the Trinamool leader said. “Now I hear that the committee has not met the employees,” he said.
Water crisis: Orissa to seek corporate help PTI BERHAMPUR, MAY 4
Faced with drinking water crisis in several urban areas, Orissa government is now planning to seek help from public sector and private corporate houses to mitigate the problem. “We need assistance from major corporate houses to tackle the drinking water crisis in major urban areas in the state,” Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Badrinarayan Patra said here. Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) has agreed in principle to fund around Rs 40 crore for creating a water body to solve the crisis in western Orissa towns Brajaraj Nagar, Jharsuguda and Belphar, he said. While the MCL set up a water body, the government will fund the laying of
pipeline for water distribution, the minister said. “We have discussed with the authorities of Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) for construction of a check dam in the nearby river, which will help tackle the drinking water crisis in Rourkela town,” he said. “We will also explore possibility of help from other Industrial houses to tackle drinking water crisis in other places like Berhampur and Titilagarh,” he said. The minister said he would discuss with local MLAs and ministers to explore the possibility of assistance from corporate houses like Tata Steel, Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) or some other PSUs for another drinking water project for Berhampur town. The Tata Steel has acquired around 3500 acres
for a project near here. The minister was here to inaugurate two over-head tanks, constructed from the state relief commissions grant and a 7.5 km long pipeline laid with a cost of Rs 3.47 crore. With these projects, the water crisis in several areas would be solved and around 70,000 people in the town would be benefitted, he claimed. Berhampur is reeling under shortage of about 13 million litres of water daily, while the water supply department is being provided about 37 million litres daily, from all sources, to cater to its 3.70 lakh population. Since there is no source of water, the government has decided to construct at least two reservoirs, each measuring 100 acres in the town to supply
Kasab awaits punishment, hanged in film PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
In real life, Ajmal Kasab held guilty in the Mumbai terror attack awaits punishment—maximum being death penalty—but in reel life the lone surviving Pakistani gunman is already hanged. After a spate of international documentaries on Mumbai carnage, a full length movie—’Ashok Chakra’—set against the backdrop of the country’s most audacious terror attack will hit the theaters on May 28. Rajan Verma, a newcomer, dons the role of Kasab and has a striking resemblance to the 22-year-old Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) terrorist. The film’s first promos, which will see Rajan in a full nude scene accepting his guilt in a monologue, will be out on May 9. In the film, Kasab is sentenced to death and hanged. “Months before the (Mumbai) trial ended, we had decided that Kasab will be hanged to death in the film, it was the only just thing to do. The film shows Kasab accepting his guilt before his death,” Verma told PTI today. Kasab was yesterday found guilty of mass murder and waging war against India by a fast track court in Mumbai for which the maximum punishment is death penalty.
The film which was earlier titled ‘Total Ten’ has been directed by S P Munishwar and produced by Hari Om Sharma under the banner of Sapna Films Production. “The USP of the movie is that the guy who plays Kasab looks exactly like him that is the added attraction of the movie. I play Vijay Salaskar, a sharp shooter. I have an image of a policeman, so they approached me with this role. They showed me some pictures and briefed me about the him,” Sudesh Berry, who plays the role of the slain police officer said. “One of my friends was familiar with Salaskar, so he also told me about the man in real life. He was a simple man, not one of the typical foul-mouthed policemen we generally see,” he added. The Rs 2.5 crore film based on media reports of the carnage and accounts of police officials and survivors pieces together the 60-hour ordeal the city went through. Other actors in the movie include Homi Wadia (Hemant Karkare), Ashok Kulkarni (Ashok Kamte) and Ashish Vidyarthi (Tukaram Ombale). The film also has a host of small-time actors playing Kasab’s Pakistani handlers. Apparently trying to cash in on the November 26, 2008 terror attacks filmmakers had registered titles like ‘Operation 5-Star Mumbai’, ‘Bird’s Point of View: Taj Terror’, ‘26/11-Mumbai Under
Terror’, ‘Dahshat Ka Halla’ and ‘Shootout at Oberoi’, but only a few projects has taken off. Bhojpuri star Kamal Rashid Khan’s upcoming sequel to ‘Deshdrohi’ also centres on the “sacrifices made by ATS officers” during the terror attacks. “My film got delayed because of the new developments in the case. Now that Kasab has been convicted and sentencing expected we are planning to begin shooting soon and the film will be released in February next year,” said Khan, who is also the producer of the film. Khan claimed that he has already signed on Anupam Kher, Siddharth Koirala, Ashmit Patel and Payal Rohatgi for the film. Mainstream filmmakers had stayed away from making a film on the carnage after Ram Gopal Varma’s visit to the terror-struck Taj hotel after the attack landed him in a controversy. Movies that have been made on real-life terror incidents include Anurag Kashyup’s ‘Black Friday’ (2004), based on the 1993 serial blasts, Apoorva Lakhia’s ‘Shootout At Lokhandwala’ (2007) on a 1991 underworld encounter, and Nishikant Kamat’s ‘Mumbai Meri Jaan’ (2008) on the serial train blasts of July 7, 2006.
water with an investment of about Rs 24 crore, he said. The water resources department has agreed to supply water to the proposed reservoirs through the canal system as a short-term measure to solve the crisis.
‘Cases against motormen to be withdrawn’ PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
Police cases against motormen of the Central and Western Railways, who have since called off their strike in Mumbai, will be withdrawn, Parliament was informed today. At the same time, the Railways will withdraw any disciplinar y action against them, Minister of State for Railway E Ahmed said in the Rajya Sabha. "The conciliation process was started by the Home Minister of Maharashtra. All cases registered by the police have to be withdrawn....the disciplinary action by the Railways will also be taken back," he said. The minister made the statement in response to demands by members in both Houses about the government's stand over the strike which brought Mumbai to a halt since yesterday affecting suburban trains which ferry seven millions of people every day.
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S Korea vows response to ship sinking AGENCIES SEOUL, MAY 4
The highly unusual meeting came while Kim Jong-il, the reclusive North Korean leader, was visiting China on a trip widely seen as an attempt to win badly needed economic aid and counter South Korea’s efforts to blame and punish it for the sinking of the ship, the 1,200-ton Cheonan. South Korea, which has called a torpedo attack the likeliest cause of the sinking, has not specifically accused North Korea. But on Tuesday, Lee appeared to be inching closer to blaming the North. “What has become clear so far is that the Cheonan sinking was not an accident,” Lee told senior officers. He said the sinking, which killed 46 South Korean sailors, “reawakened South Koreans to the fact that just 50 kilometers to the north, long-range North Korean artillery and rockets are trained on us.” It also reminded South Koreans that “a threat that shatters out prosperity and stability can come in a way we cannot imagine,” he said.
US reveals size of nuclear arsenal REUTERS NEW YORK, MAY 4
The US revealed the size of its nuclear arsenal last night in an unprecedented attempt to galvanise efforts to rid the world of nuclear weapons. Hillary Clinton, the US Secretary of State, announced the declassification of one of the Pentagon’s most closely guarded secrets at the opening day of a critical international meeting on global disarmament. The Pentagon’s figures show that the US stockpile consists of 5,113 nuclear warheads and “several thousand” more retired warheads that await dismantling. The figures reveal an 84 per cent reduction from the historic peak of 31,225 warheads in 1967 at the height of the Cold War. “Beginning today, the United States will make public the number of nuclear weapons in our stockpile and the number of weapons we have dismantled since 1991,” Mrs Clinton told
the UN review conference on the Non-Proliferation Treaty. “So for those who doubt that the United States will do its part on disarmament, this is our record, these are our commitments and they send a clear, unmistakable signal.” Mrs Clinton said that the disclosure came after months of wrangling between the White House and intelligence officials over the security implications. President Obama argued forcefully that the revelation would place Washington at the head of global efforts to eliminate nuclear weapons by demonstrating how much of its arsenal it has sent for dismantling, setting a standard to others for openness. Yesterday he issued a written statement to the conference warning nations that the pursuit of a nuclear arsenal would only lead to international isolation and urging those who already had them to disarm. “We will see whether nations without nuclear weapons will
fulfill their obligation to forsake them,” Obama wrote. “Nations that pursue this path find greater security and opportunity as an integrated member of the international community. Nations that ignore their obligations find themselves less secure, less prosperous and more isolated. That is the choice nations must make.” Obama did not mention any country by name but his comments were clearly aimed at Iran whose President, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, had hours earlier attempted to hijack the conference with a divisive address dismissing American leadership on non-proliferation. The disclosure by the US is an attempt to revive a treaty on the brink of collapse. The last time the signatories gathered to review the NPT was five years ago. But the meeting collapsed in acrimony over the perceived failure of the US to follow through on its disarmament commitments.
Chinese police to shoot student attackers AGENCIES BEIJING, MAY 4
Police in a Chinese city have been given shoot-to-kill powers at schools after a series of attacks against young pupils left eight dead and dozens wounded. The extreme measure is a sign of the nervousness across China as classes resumed after the three-day May Day holiday weekend. China’s Ministry of Public Security issued an emergency notice at the weekend ordering tighter security at schools and kindergartens nationwide after three attacks on schools in as many days last week left nearly 50 children and several teachers injured. In southwestern Chongqing, a sprawling metropolis of more than 30 million people, police have decided to take no chances. The Chongqing Evening News reported: “The police have clear regulations in these odious cases where direct attacks occurring at or in the vicinity of schools have injured students or children." The newspaper said: “If they cannot contain the violent acts, police can shoot to kill in accordance with the law.” Violent crime is unusual in China and, while police do sometimes carry firearms, they rarely use them. However, the recent wave of attacks on schools in which men armed with knives have rampaged through classrooms slash-
ing and hacking at children, as well as caretakers and teachers who tried to block the assaults, have shocked the nation. On Friday last week, a farmer wielding a hammer battered five children and a teacher at a kindergarten in eastern China before setting himself on fire and killing himself. The day before, a jobless man who said he was angry at a series of personal and professional setbacks slashed 29 children and three adults at a kindergarten in southeastern China with a knife used for slaughtering pigs. Less than 24 hours before that, a 33-year- old former teacher with a history of mental illness injured 15 students and
a teacher in a knife attack on a primary school in southern China. The incidents appeared to be copycat attacks. Last week, a former medical worker in eastern Fujian province was executed for stabbing to death eight children and wounding five others as they waited outside their school. He told the court he was enraged after his girlfriend jilted him. Most schools in China have a security guard who sits in a box at the gate, but these men are barely armed in a society where a tough “one couple, one child” family planning policy means children are adored and usually
spoilt. The country’s security chief stressed yesterday that child safety was an issued that “most worried people”. Zhou Yongkang, a member of the Politburo Standing Committee, said: “We must take fast action to strengthen security for schools and kindergartens to create a harmonious environment for children to study and grow up in.” He ordered an increase in police patrols around schools and kindergartens and instructed health and civil affairs authorities to improve their management and treatment of people with mental disorders.
Mixed reaction from Pak media to Kasab’s conviction PTI ISLAMABAD, MAY 4
Ajmal Kasab's conviction by an Indian court for involvement in the Mumbai attacks drew mixed reaction from the Pakistani media today, with a section saying that it should help the victims' families to put a lid on an "ugly chapter" while another warning that it "will impact" the Indo-Pak ties. As Pakistan is still blamed by India for not doing enough to clamp down on "groups that are capable of future Mumbai-style attacks," Islamabad could "wash away this perception" by proceeding expeditiously with the trial of seven Pakistani suspects, including LeT commander Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, accused of involvement in the carnage, the Dawn said. "Like it or not, there are fundamental issues between the two countries that have to be resolved; but by holding everything hostage to the terrorism issue, India may have in fact given the terrorists a perverse incentive to try harder the next time," it warned in an editorial. "India needs to accept that peace in South Asia will not be possible until the legitimate and genuine issues of concern to Pakistan are resolved to the sat-
isfaction of both sides," it said. However, the conviction yesterday of Pakistani national Kasab, the lone surviving terrorist from the Mumbai attacks, should "help give some closure to the victims' families and India on an ugly chapter in the country's history." The Dawn said Pakistan and India also need to learn "the right lessons from experience," including measures to prevent another Mumbai-like incident. It said: "First, it is fairly clear that the attacks were launched to push Pakistan and India apart, and perhaps even to the brink of war. That common sense ultimately prevailed is a good thing. "But there were enough warning signs to suggest that common sense may not necessarily prevail the next time, so everything possible must be done to prevent a repeat." Both countries also need to realise that "South Asia and the relations between Islamabad and Delhi are only becoming more complicated as the years pass by," it said. The two sides will need "great will" to tackle several pressing issues, the daily cautioned. "Afghanistan has become a bone of contention; military doctrines such as India's Cold Start can lead to undesirable
consequences in a nucleararmed subcontinent; and perhaps potentially more serious than any other dispute the water shortage places an increasing burden on the leadership of the two countries," it said. The Nation, which is known for its anti-India views, said Kasab's conviction "was no surprise, given how the deck was loaded against him from the start." Entitled 'The Kasab Verdict', the Nation's editorial said "Judge M L Tahiliyani's verdict that Kasab was a member of the Lashker-e-Taiba and that his handlers were in Pakistan was reflective of the Indian government's claims." It mocked Tahiliyani's contention that the gunmen came prepared for sustained urban combat and that such preparations are not normal for ordinary criminals by saying: "Clearly the judge has not seen the crime movies of Bollywood where criminal mafias have everything from machine guns to GPS devices!" The Nation questioned the manner in which Kasab's confession was obtained and said the Indian court's "verdict and the sentencing, which may include death, will impact Pakistan-India relations."
Japan not to FROM PAGE 1 move US base Goa wins power rebate case off Okinawa government enacted law known as Prohibition of Further Payments AFP TOKYO, MAY 4
Japan’s embattled premier Tuesday abandoned a plan to move an unpopular US airbase entirely off Okinawa island, backtracking on a key election pledge after months of dithering that angered Washington. "I really feel sorry as I visit here today that I must ask for the Okinawan people's understanding that part of the base operations would have to stay" on Okinawa, Yukio Hatoyama told reporters after meeting the local governor. Hatoyama made the comment after being greeted by protesters on his first visit to the subtropical island since he took office in September vowing to ease the burden for the reluctant hosts of tens of thousands of US troops. The row has cost the centreleft leader much domestic support and badly strained ties with ally the United States. Previous governments in Tokyo and Washington agreed in 2006 to move Futenma from a crowded urban location of Okinawa to a quieter coastal area, but Hatoyama promised to review the plan and move the base off Okinawa altogether.
and Recovery of Rebate Benefits Act 2002. This law enacted by the Parrikar regime, provided for recovery of rebate benefits given to companies pursuant to notifications of 1996. It was only when the Digambar Kamat government came to power that the government seriously pursued the case in the Supreme Court. The Power Department engaged a noted counsel Venugopal as a senior counsel to defend the various matters on power rebate in the apex court. A Suhasini was the advocate on record. Power Minister Aleixo Sequeira pursued the matter as crores of rupees were at stake. Incidentally, in a assembly session last years, the Cortalim legislator Mauvin Godinho had alleged that the Electricity Department was wasting Rs 25 lakh on lawyers in the Supreme Court. To this, Sequeira had replied that the government was willing to spend, if required, even a crore to defend the State government’s interest in the apex court as crores of rupees were at stake. In the 100-page plus judgement, the Supreme Court has held that the Prohibition of Further Payment and Recovery of Rebate Benefits Act, 2002 “doesn’t suffer from any invalidity and the challenge made by the petitioners to the constitutionality fails.” Accordingly , the writ petitions were dismissed without any order as to cost. To a question whether the Power Ministry would now move to recover the rebate benefits from the companies, the power minister said that he would study the order and take necessary action . The Bharatiya Janata Party camp was also jubilant as Parrikar was also a respondent in the matter. In fact, Parrikar was the first person to point out the anomalies in the controversial power rebate notifications issued by the Congress governments in the past.
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Pak-origin man arrested in Times Square bomb plot PTI WASHINGTON/NEW YORK, MAY 4
A Pakistan-born US citizen was arrested by FBI as he was about to flee on board a plane to Dubai after a failed Times Square bombing attempt and the Attorney General said that the probe was focusing on "overseas" terrorist groups. Faisal Shahzad, 30, a naturalised US citizen and resident of Connecticut was taken into custody from the JFK Airport as he attempted to board a flight to Dubai, Attorney General Eric Holder said. "The plot was designed to kill Americans," Holder told newsmen as he announced the arrest of the main suspect. Police said Shahzad was charged with driving a bomb
laden SUV into the Times Square and parking it on a street lined with restaurants and New York's famous Broadway theatres. He is to appear in court later today. They said, Shahzad had recently returned from a five month trip to Pakistan and the city of Peshawar, from where new recruits of al-Qaeda and Taliban peel off to training camps in tribal areas. Though Holder said Shahzad was picked up from the flight, CNN reported that the suspect was on a plane with a likely final destination of Pakistan. Emirate Airlines spokesman in Dubai said, their flight had been called back and three passengers offloaded by the authorities from the New York-Dubai
flight. Initially police and New York mayor Michael Bloomberg had ruled out any international terror group hand in the plot in which a Nissan Pathfinder filled with explosives was parked on the Broadway. They dismissed claims made by Pakistan's Tehreek-e-Taliban chief Hakimullah Mehsud and TTP spokesman vowing to carry out deadly strikes against major US cities. New York Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly said the explosive devise inside had cheap alarm clocks connected to 500 grams can filled with fireworks, which were intended to detonate gas cans and propane tanks afire to cause maximum casualties.
Spider-Man thwarts robbery AGENCIES LONDON, MAY 4
When Michael Baulderstone, a c o m i c - b o o k s t o re o w n e r,
dressed as Spider-Man for a promotional event in his shop he never imagined that by the end of the day he would become a real-life crime-fighting superhero. Luckily, Baulderstone’s “Spider-sense” was tingling and he was able to thwart an attempted theft from his shop in Adelaide with the aid of The Flash and some trusted Jedi Knights wielding light-sabers. The comical crime caper began on Saturday morning in the Adelaide Comics Centre, tucked away in a shopping centre in the heart of the city. Fans dressed as their favourite superhero characters had de-
scended on the store for the international free comic-book day — an event designed to encourage children to read. Mingling among the customers in fancy dress — including a Wolverine, a Catwoman and someone dressed as KickAss, the character from the recent British film about a hapless American teenager who creates his own superhero to fight crime —Baulderstone noticed someone acting suspiciously. The customer, who was dressed as himself — a comic fan in an overcoat and jeans — allegedly picked up an X-Man Omnibus, valued at A$160 (£97), from the window display.
Nepal shutdown heaps pressure on peace process AFP KATHMANDU, MAY 4
Technicians operating remote-controlled robotic submersibles have been trying for days to trigger the blowout preventer, which should have capped the flow of oil in the Gulf of Mexico.
Stemming oil flow will take three months: BP AP LONDON, MAY 4
The fight to cut off the flow of oil feeding the giant oil slick in the Gulf of Mexico could take three months, British Petroleum (BP) said today. The oil giant launched a new front in its battle to contain the spill, as engineers began drilling a relief well designed to cut off the leaking oil permanently. The new well, which is in 5,000 feet of water, is planned
to intercept the existing well at 13,000 feet — about two miles — below the seabed. It will be used to inject cement to cap the one that is leaking. Drilling began on Sunday at 3pm local time, after days of delays caused by poor weather conditions. However, BP confirmed that the operation would take “some three months” to complete. The operation, which will cost an estimated $100 million, is being undertaken by a
second rig called Development Driller III, which BP towed to the site last week. “This is another key step in our work to permanently stop the loss of oil from the well,” said BP group chief executive Tony Hayward. “At the same time we are continuing with our efforts to stop the leak and control the oil at the seabed, to tackle the oil offshore and to protect the shoreline.”
Shops, schools and offices across Nepal were shut for a third day on Tuesday as opposition Maoists enforced a general strike that threatens the Himalayan nation's peace process. Talks between the Maoist party, which has the largest number of seats in parliament, and the ruling coalition have failed to secure a breakthrough after opposition supporters massed in the capital Kathmandu at the weekend. Much of the country has been shut down as the Maoists, who are demanding the government stands down, stage mass rallies and threaten anyone defying the general strike. "We are heading towards victory. We will not quit until we reach our goal," Agni Sapkota, a senior Maoist, told the crowds. "We want this to be over soon, but the incumbent government does not care what the wishes of the people are." Maoist guerrillas fought a bloody civil war against the Nepalese state for 10 years before a peace agreement was signed in 2006, and the left-
wing rebels then won elections in 2008 and held power for eight months. Lawmakers have until May 28 to complete a new constitution that analysts say is crucial to ensuring lasting peace between the Maoists and the state -- but few expect the deadline to be met. Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, a moderate left-winger, has refused to resign and said the Maoists were damaging Nepal's future by imposing the strike. Minendra Rijal, the minister of federal affairs, said the government was working for a solution to end the shutdown. "Everything has to be negotiated. They can not demand the resignation of prime minister based on street protests," he said. "The public want to open their shops, go to work, and defy the strike, but we don't want anything to do anything that would provoke the protesters. We have not lost hope. We believe we can solve the current deadlock." Maoist leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said the strike which began Sunday is indefinite.
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DKI, SKNL CII’s post Budget comments announce JV
TALK BUSINESS
PANJIM (HBD) -- In a memorandum sent to the Chief Minister recently, the CII highlighted certain ’Post Budget Comments’. The memorandum appreciates the announcement made by Kamat about the formation of a ‘task force’ under the leadership of Dr Mashelkar for spelling out a ‘vision’ for Goa's development. Based on late Dr C K Prahalad’s Vision of India@75, the CII has already submitted a ‘Vision Document’ based on a few workshops conducted for this purpose to elicit views of all stakeholders. Connected closely with this, are the Governance issues which may become a key concern for the State once a long term plan is made & therefore it recommends that, the Government’s initiative on e-governance must be strengthened. Amongst other issues, the memorandum highlights the urgent need to build a knowledge base, substantiated with data, which could be used by the people of the State. In order to achieve this, CII had already proposed the setting up of a Statistical Research Cell (SRC) which has since been approved by the government. During the Council meeting, the issue of declining contribution of the Agri sector to the GDP was discussed in detail and the members felt that the corporate sector must come forward to help the government in the revival of the sector. CII recommends that 'Education Initiatives' should be linked to employability and that the Skills Development Mission will have to play a very effective role w.r.t. ‘Education for the Employable’. There is also a need to further develop 'Logistics Capability' of the State including development and integration of Ports, Airports, Roads and Railways and access to greater connectivity would improve the economy of the State. The CII appreciated the formation of the Professional Advisory Group (PAG). It has also recommended that there is a need to have a working group of intellectuals to devise strategies for State’s economic development.
Suzuki 2-wheelers April sales up 53%
HERALD BUSINESS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
Donna Karan International and S Kumars Nationwide Limited (SKNL) announced that they had formed a joint venture and entered into a strategic global licensing agreement. As part of this arrangement, SKNL (UK) Limited will source, design, produce and distribute the full range of DKNY menswear apparel. The agreement runs through 2015, with an option to extend the license for an additional seven years. The Spring 2010 collection, which carries the DKNY Black Label, is the first to be offered by SKNL under this agreement. This collection is available in high-end department and speciality stores in addition to DKNY’s network of approximately 100 DKNY free-standing retail stores around the world. The sportswear range of the DKNY men’s apparel line is distributed in North America, Europe, Africa, the South Pacific, Middle East and Asia.
Ambani brothers brace for gas row ruling REUTERS MUMBAI, MAY 4
The Supreme Court is expected to rule by next week on a long and high-profile dispute between the estranged billionaire Ambani brothers that has unnerved investors unsure about future gas pricing policy. WHO ARE THE AMBANI BROTHERS? Mukesh Ambani, 53, is the world's fourth-richest man, worth $29 billion according to Forbes magazine earlier this year. He controls India's largest listed firm, Reliance Industries, which has interests in oil and gas exploration, petrochemicals, infrastructure and retail sectors. Anil Ambani, 50, is worth an estimated $13.7 billion. He received the telecoms, power, entertainment and financial services interests of the Reliance empire after it was split in 2005 following the death of Dhirubhai Ambani, who built Reliance from scratch. The Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group includes India's No.2 telecoms firm, Reliance Communications, and Reliance Infrastructure. The brothers have squabbled frequently since the group's split, before which
Mukesh was chairman and managing director of Reliance Industries, and Anil vice-chairman. WHAT'S THIS ROW ABOUT? As part of the 2005 family settlement, brokered by their mother Kokilaben, Reliance Industries would supply Anil Ambani's Reliance Natural Resources with 28 million standard cubic metres a day (mmscmd) of gas for 17 years at a rate below the government price. Reliance Industries argues the private deal cannot take precedence over government policy, which determines who can receive gas and at what price. Anil, who claims otherwise, rolled out a series of front-page adverts in major newspapers accusing the government of taking the side of Reliance Industries. In a surprise move last year, Anil held out an olive branch to Mukesh, but the brothers have yet to settle their differences. WHAT'S AT STAKE? The gas, which Reliance Natural wants at almost half the government-set rate of $4.2 per million metric British thermal unit (mmBtu), comes from the Krishna Godavari basin off
India's east coast, which is operated by Reliance Industries. The field is India's biggest gas find and should nearly double the nation's gas output when production is at full throttle at 80 mmscmd. Energy-hungry India, which wants to reduce its dependence on foreign oil and become a new frontier for oil and gas exploration, has showcased the Krishna Godavari discovery to attract foreign investors. But analysts worry the Ambani dispute is putting off foreign investors, with government interference in the pricing and marketing of gas raising investment risk in a politically sensitive resource. A ruling may set a basis for future regulations on gas pricing in India, and could determine whether Reliance Industries makes or loses billions of dollars in potential profits on gas sales. HOW IS THE GOVERNMENT INVOLVED? The government initially filed a petition in India's highest court asking to be made a party in the dispute, arguing the family deal was not applicable, and Reliance Industries could only sell gas with its consent. The
PANJIM (HBD) -- Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd registered an increase in monthly sales figures. Suzuki Motorcycles has sold 20771 units in April ’10 as opposed to 13556 in April 2009, listing a growth of 53% over its sales in April ‘09. This increase of sales is attributed to the response from the new product GS150R and Access 125, the scooter from the house of Suzuki Motorcycles.
Cognizant Q4 profit tops estimates
Mercedes April sales up 80%
REUTERS PUNE, MAY 4
Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp reported a betterthan-expected quarterly profit as financial services, its biggest market, continued to lead the recovery, and increased its outlook for the year. Financial services contributed 43 percent to revenue in 2009. First-quarter net income rose to $151.5 million, or 49 cents a share, from $113.1 million, or 38 cents a share, a year earlier. Excluding items, earnings were 53 cents a share. Revenue rose 29 percent to $959.7 million. Analysts expected earnings of 48 cents a share, excluding exceptional items, on revenue of $939.1 million, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S. For the year, the company forecast earnings of at least $2.26 a share, excluding items, on revenue of at least $4.1 billion. In February, the company had forecast earnings of at least $2.19 a share, excluding items, on revenue of at least $3.94 billion.
PANJIM (HBD) -- Continuing the high-octane start of 2010, Mercedes-Benz India announced a sale of 321 units in April 2010 taking the cumulative sales for January- April 2010 to 1603 units. This marks a growth of 80% as compared to April 2009 and 69% as compared to Jan- April 2009. In Jan-April 2010 the New E-Class (powered by 4 engines E350, E 350CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, E250, E250CDI BlueEFFICIENCY) continued to lead the segment and registered 139% growth, while the C-Class reinforced its popularity registering a growth of 32% over Jan-Apr 2009. The SUV’s from the Mercedes stable has received an overwhelming response. In Jan-April 2010 the company sold a total of 92 units of GL-Class and M-Class. In contast there were 55 units sold during the same period in 2009. With an investment of over 200 crores in network, MercedesBenz is now present in 26 cities with 55 touch points, the largest for any luxury player in India.
TTML Rev up 12% PANJIM (HBD) -- TTML announced its annual consolidated financial results for the period ended March 31, 2010. The total subscriber base stood at 13 million – an increase of 73.5% over the previous year. TTML’s rest of Maharashtra circle has crossed 7.8 million wireless subscribers, and TTML is now the 2nd largest operator in this geography. TTML’s Mumbai circle has crossed 4.4 million wireless subscribers, and the company is now the 3rd largest operator in this geography. Wireless Minutes of Use (MoUs) grew 30% over the previous year. The company posted a robust 12% growth in revenues, which rose to an all time high of Rs 2309 cr for the financial year ended March 31, 2010. For the 9 months ended December 31, 2009, for which Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) figures are available from the TRAI, the Company has registered an 8.2% AGR growth compared to industry de-growth in its geography of 0.9%. Ebitda for the year was Rs 597 cr with an Ebitda margin of 26%, notwithstanding the unprecedented network expansion and associated increase in network operating costs to establish the brand new GSM network. The Ebitda for the quarter ended March 31, 2010 was at an all time high of Rs 183 cr. TTML registered an incremental wireless market share of 28% for the twelve months ended March 31, 2010, and an incremental wireline market share of 59% for the year; the company was the No 1 operator in both segments.
Sensex falls 249 pts PTI MUMBAI, MAY 4
The Bombay Stock Exchange benchmark Sensex declined sharply for the second straight session today, ending 249 points down and at its lowest level in nearly two months on dampened Asian and European sentiment. The market opened on a firm note thanks to overnight gains in the US, but profit booking scuttled any chance of a rally and the the 30-share index finally closed at 17,137.14, down by 1.43 per cent, or 248.94 points. Markets saw heavy selling pressure during the second part of the session after Europe opened weak. The wide-based 50-share Nifty Index of the National Stock Exchange settled at 5,148.50 points, down by 1.42 per cent.
L&T inks JV with UK's Howden PTI MUMBAI, MAY 4
Diversified industrial conglomerate Larsen & Toubro (L&T), today signed a joint venture (JV) with the UK-based Howden to design, engineer, manufacture and supply axial fans and air pre-heaters to Indian Aban Offshor, 1170, 1181.5, 1135, 1140.65 Abb Ltd., 749, 753.8, 724, 728.45 Abg Shipyard, 263, 265.4, 255.5, 256.65 Acc Limited, 900, 913.85, 873, 878.2 Adani Enterp, 551, 573.9, 518.05, 562.95 Aditya Birla, 805, 828.9, 796.2, 801.6 Allahabad Ba, 162, 162.4, 152.1, 153.75 Alstom Proje, 609.9, 609.9, 583.05, 588.3 Ambuja Cemen, 123, 123, 115.25, 116.15 Andhra Bank, 132.7, 133, 128.15, 129.25 Ansal Prop &, 81.6, 83.4, 78.75, 80.35 Ashok Leylan, 61.1, 61.55, 60.05, 60.95 Asian Paints, 2097.8, 2099.9, 2076, 2088.1 Axis Bank Li, 1262.1, 1290.9, 1244.25, 1249.45 Bajaj Hindus, 125, 125.95, 117, 118.45 Bank Of Baro, 710, 714, 691.1, 695.1 Bank Of Indi, 384, 385.9, 367.2, 370.7 Beml Limited, 1049.7, 1049.7, 1021.5, 1026.7 Bharat Elect, 1839.8, 1840, 1777, 1797.85 Bharat Forge, 277, 277, 268.6, 270.1 Bharat Petro, 521, 530, 512.65, 515.8 Bharti Airte, 299, 299, 288.15, 289 Bhel, 2480, 2494.05, 2440, 2456.65
thermal power plants ranging between 100 MW to 1,200 MW. The JV will invest around Rs 100-crore for setting up of the industrial facility and related infrastructure, a press release issued here said. The manufacturing unit will
Bhushan Stee, 1754, 1761, 1641, 1658.1 Biocon Limit, 296.1, 297.4, 286, 289.3 Bombay Dyein, 581, 588.7, 563, 568.55 Bosch Limite, 4889, 4889, 4821.05, 4843.85 Brigade Ente, 143.5, 143.95, 136.2, 139.4 Cairn India, 318.7, 320.6, 305.2, 308.4 Canara Bank, 429, 439.45, 425.1, 428 Central Bank, 150.2, 154.5, 145.5, 146.05 Century Text, 513.5, 519.1, 490, 492.95 Cesc Ltd, 405.05, 406.4, 398, 399.85 Chambal Fert, 65.3, 65.4, 62.6, 62.95 Chennai Petr, 280, 281.8, 275.15, 277.8 Cipla Ltd, 338, 340.9, 332.1, 334.8 Colgate Palm, 765.1, 769.95, 751.1, 755.25 Container Co, 1315.35, 1354.9, 1291.6, 1314.45 Crompton Gre, 260.25, 265.9, 258.25, 259.25 Cummins Indi, 574.9, 580, 567.1, 571.2 Dabur India, 181.9, 184.4, 181, 182.35 Deccan Chron, 153.9, 154.7, 147.25, 148.1 Dish Tv Indi, 38.35, 38.8, 36.55, 36.7 Divi’s Labor, 669.8, 697, 664, 691.85 Dlf Limited, 307, 312.75, 299.7, 301.1
be set-up in Hazira, Gujarat, and its operations are expected to commence in 2011, it said. The joint venture agreement was signed by L&T Power's MD & CEO, Ravi Uppal, and Howden Global's CEO, Bob Cleland, in Mumbai today in the pres-
Dr. reddy’s, 1249, 1253, 1227.15, 1232.8 Edelweiss Ca, 408, 418, 407.7, 415.2 Educomp Solu, 622, 706.9, 622, 675.85 Eih Limited, 127.5, 127.75, 124.5, 125.15 Engineers In, 2441.4, 2451.9, 2330.15, 2346.75 Essar Oil Lt, 142.05, 143.6, 137, 137.6 Essar Shippi, 91.95, 92.8, 86.7, 87.2 Exide Indust, 120.7, 123.5, 120.15, 122.75 Federal Bank, 293.1, 302.2, 284, 287 Financial Te, 1569, 1569, 1470.1, 1487.45 Gail (india), 430.5, 433.4, 425.15, 426.75 Gammon India, 218, 221.4, 214.15, 215.2 Glaxosmithkl, 1915, 1915, 1862, 1888.65 Glenmark Pha, 288, 297, 279, 281.95 Gmr Infrastr, 64.95, 65.35, 61.85, 62.15 Godrej Indus, 167.5, 167.95, 159.55, 160.3 Grasim Indus, 2676.3, 2699, 2560, 2589.05 Great Offsho, 468.4, 469.95, 445, 454.45 Gtl Infra.Lt, 41.1, 41.1, 39.6, 40.05 Gujarat Mine, 134.5, 134.8, 128.65, 129.55 Gujarat N R, 89, 89.8, 82, 83 Gujarat Stat, 95.8, 96.95, 94.2, 94.5 Gvk Pow. & I, 45.9, 45.95, 44.5, 44.85
Hcl Technolo, 391, 402, 391, 398.35 Hdfc Bank Lt, 1984.8, 1984.8, 1932.2, 1937 Hdfc Ltd, 2835, 2847.7, 2808, 2822.6 Hero Honda M, 1943, 1943, 1912, 1921.65 Hindalco in, 173.25, 174.5, 161.65, 162.95 Hindustan Co, 127.5, 127.9, 122.2, 123.3 Hindustan Ma, 79.9, 80.2, 76.65, 77.1 Hindustan Pe, 328.9, 331, 320.65, 327.1 Hindustan Un, 236.8, 236.8, 231, 232.35 Hindustan Zi, 1215.9, 1215.9, 1144.1, 1167.2 Housing Dev, 264, 265.7, 250.35, 251.7 Icici Bank L, 941.9, 946.6, 909, 915.2 Idea Cellula, 64.1, 65.7, 63.1, 63.75 Ifci Ltd, 52.2, 52.4, 50.15, 50.35 India Cement, 123.25, 123.9, 118.55, 120.25 India Infoli, 109.9, 111.1, 103.55, 104.45 Indiabulls F, 154.7, 156.8, 146.1, 147.2 Indiabulls R, 175, 176.2, 164.55, 165.6 Indian Bank, 222.5, 226.4, 218.4, 220.55 Indian Hotel, 107.15, 109.2, 105.15, 105.9 Indian Oil C, 306.1, 308.9, 300.8, 301.95 Indian Overs, 96.85, 97.05, 93.3, 93.8 Indus Dev Ba, 125.8, 126.8, 120.3, 120.75 Indusind Ban, 193.3, 193.3, 188.65, 190.9
ence of Larsen & Tourbo's CMD, A M Naik, the release said. "This JV marks another milestone for L&T Power. L&T is poised to emerge as India's premier power sector company," L&T's CMD, A M Naik, said.
Infosys Tech, 2705, 2706, 2655.5, 2666.15 Infra. dev., 169, 170.75, 164.65, 165.7 Ispat Indust, 19.85, 20.05, 18.9, 18.95 Itc Ltd, 262.2, 266, 261, 262.3 Ivrcl Infras, 178.9, 178.9, 167.75, 168.7 Jai Corp Lim, 259.8, 263.25, 249.1, 250.85 Jaiprakash A, 145.7, 147.25, 138.55, 140.1 Jet Airways, 524.7, 540, 518.05, 521.3 Jindal Saw L, 217, 217, 205.8, 206.75 Jindal Steel, 734, 740, 711.5, 719.5 Jsw Steel Li, 1237.7, 1237.7, 1138.4, 1144.1 Kotak Mahind, 750, 750, 728, 732.3 Lakshmi Mach, 2015, 2050, 1985.1, 1997 Lanco Infrat, 63.4, 64.75, 60.05, 60.8 Larsen & Tou, 1594, 1610, 1533.4, 1549.35 Lic Housing, 962.1, 975.7, 945, 951.4 Lupin Limite, 1765, 1777.95, 1742, 1748.1 Mahanagar Te, 71.05, 71.65, 70.1, 70.25 Mahindra & M, 530, 535.95, 512, 517.85 Maruti Suzuk, 1288, 1297.45, 1257.5, 1265.35 Max India Lt, 178, 182, 171.5, 172.55 Maytas Infr., 205.75, 207.2, 196, 197.4 Moser-baer (, 73.25, 74.15, 71.1, 72
government later modified its stance, saying it only wanted to assert that it is the rightful owner of the gas. Anil Ambani has said the petroleum ministry's efforts to control the pricing and sale of gas was the reason for a poor response to the government's global auction of oil and gas exploration blocks last year. HOW IS THE LAW INVOLVED? The Supreme Court began hearing the case last year in a packed New Delhi courtroom, after the Ambanis appealed an earlier Bombay High Court ruling that the brothers should reach a suitable agreement over gas supplies. Anil wants the Supreme Court to direct Reliance Industries to supply his company with the gas under the terms they agreed. Reliance Industries argues the private agreement signed by Mukesh is not binding on the company. The ruling is expected soon as Chief Justice K.G. Balakrishnan, part of a three-judge bench that heard the case, is set to retire on May 11. WHAT ABOUT THE COMPA-
NIES' SHARE PRICES? Analysts see Reliance Industries, which has a market value of $76 billion, gaining about 10 percent if the court rules in its favour. If the ruling goes the other way, the stock could lose 5 percent. The shares have dropped 6 percent this year, compared with a 0.5 percent fall on the main Mumbai index. Reliance Natural shares could jump by almost a third if the ruling goes in its favour, traders say, but could slide 15 percent or more if the verdict goes against the company. Shares in Reliance Natural have risen almost 17 percent since April 27 amid growing speculation it could win -- giving it access to relatively cheap gas, which could then be used to fuel projects by companies in the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group.
BOARD MEETINGS Ace India Parenteral Drug Hindustan Fluoro Prism Cement Allcargo Glob JB Chemicals Camlin Fine Landmark Prop Taparia Tools DCM Shriram Cons Lupin TCI Finance Elder Health Midday Multi Elder Pharma Murudeshwar Cer United Brew Granules India NIIT Tech Source: Indiainfoline.com
MF FUNDA TATA MUTUAL FUND has approved May 7, 2010 as the record date for declaration of dividend under the dividend option of Tata SIP Fund Scheme II. The face value of per unit is Rs 10. The quantum of dividend will be 10% (ie Rs 1 per unit) as on the record date. ICICI PRUDENTIAL MUTUAL FUND has approved May 6, 2010 as the record date for declaration of dividend under the dividend option of ICICI Prudential Interval Fund-Half Yearly Interval Plan II and ICICI Prudential Interval Fund II-Quarterly Interval Plan B. The fund house has decided to distribute 100% distributable surplus as dividend on the record date. BARODA PIONEER MUTUAL FUND has announced the launch of its Baroda Pioneer Infrastructure Fund. It is an open-ended equity fund. The new fund offer (NFO) opens on May 3 and closes on May 31, 2010. The fund has been benchmarked against CNX 100 and is available in both growth and dividend options. The minimum application amount will be Rs 5,000 (first time) and Rs 1,000 (additional). 1% exit load will be applicable if you redeem within 365 days while no exit load will be applicable if you redeem after that. Baroda Pioneer Infrastructure Fund will be managed by Dipak Acharya. IDBI ASSET MANAGEMENT, a wholly-owned subsidiary of IDBI Bank, has launched its first NFO for the Indian investors - `IDBI NIFTY Index Fund`. The NFO will be open for sale from May 3 and close on May 31, 2010. It will re-open for continuous sale and repurchase from of June 30, 2010. The face value of each unit will be Rs 10 and the minimum investment will be Rs. 5000 and in multiples of Rs. 100 thereafter. Under the Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) investors can pay Rs. 500 per month for a minimum period of 12 months or Rs 1000 pm for a minimum period of 6 months or Rs, 1,500 per quarter for a minimum 4 quarters continuously.
Mrpl, 77.7, 78.05, 74.65, 74.95 Nagarjuna Co, 185.25, 187.45, 182.55, 183.45 Nagarjuna Fe, 32.95, 33.05, 31.8, 31.9 National Alu, 412.5, 413.9, 403.5, 407.5 Neyveli Lign, 152, 152.45, 147.1, 147.45 Ntpc Ltd, 204.95, 206.35, 203.5, 204.1 Oil And Natu, 1048.25, 1057.5, 1039.6, 1043.8 Omaxe Limite, 96, 97, 94.4, 94.85 Oriental Ban, 348.45, 353.75, 335, 339.75 Pantaloon Re, 433.9, 437, 415.45, 419.5 Parsvnath De, 125.5, 126.55, 121, 121.75 Petronet Lng, 84.5, 85.4, 81.05, 81.45 Power Fin Co, 274.9, 276.6, 268.05, 272.6 Power Grid C, 109.4, 109.95, 107.15, 107.5 Praj Industr, 94.95, 95.35, 88.4, 88.95 Punj Lloyd L, 164.6, 165.4, 157.05, 158.2 Punjab Natio, 1031, 1058.9, 1025.7, 1039.55 Rajesh Expor, 123.5, 127.05, 122.4, 122.8 Ranbaxy Labs, 454.5, 457.45, 437.1, 439.35 Rashtriya Ch, 83.55, 83.65, 80, 80.6 Rel. nat. re, 74.9, 74.9, 66.8, 67.35 Reliance Cap, 735, 742, 720.1, 722.35
Reliance Com, 165.1, 165.95, 161.5, 162 Reliance Ene, 933.05, 950, 930, 940.65 Reliance Ind, 829.45, 837, 802.05, 805.5 Reliance Ind, 1024.2, 1039, 1013.5, 1021.15 Reliance Pow, 163, 163.5, 155.5, 156.4 Rolta India, 187, 188, 178.35, 180.9 Satyam Compu, 94.5, 94.9, 91.75, 92.2 Sesa Goa Ltd, 405, 409.9, 384, 385.65 Shipping Cor, 163.2, 165.95, 158.2, 159.1 Siemens Ltd, 699, 702.9, 680, 684.9 Sintex Indus, 325, 325, 310, 312 Sobha Develo, 309.7, 315, 302.2, 305.6 State Bank O, 2305, 2315.9, 2273.1, 2280.1 Steel Author, 220, 220.9, 208.6, 210.1 Sterlite Ind, 812, 812, 769.15, 775.75 Sun Pharmace, 1579, 1593.8, 1551, 1557.35 Sun Tv Netwo, 426.85, 431.1, 418, 420.9 Suzlon Energ, 70, 70.45, 67.95, 68.15 Tata Communi, 272, 273, 266.75, 267.65 Tata Consult, 774.85, 774.85, 756.8, 761 Tata Motors, 859.05, 869.5, 838.1, 842.2 Tata Power C, 1353.7, 1353.7, 1311.45, 1319
Tata Steel L, 607, 629.85, 572.15, 577.85 Tata Tea Ltd, 1047, 1054.85, 1012.3, 1017.55 Tata Teleser, 23, 23.1, 22.35, 22.5 Tech Mahindr, 780, 783.95, 740, 743.75 The Ge Shpg., 328, 328, 315.5, 318.2 The Phoenix, 213.55, 215, 208.6, 211.8 Thermax Ltd, 712.05, 725, 701.6, 708.75 Titan Indust, 2198, 2199.1, 2131, 2145.65 Torrent Powe, 317.5, 319.75, 308.1, 310.65 Triveni Engg, 110.1, 111.8, 105.6, 107.25 Tv18 India L, 82.1, 82.75, 78.2, 78.75 Uco Bank, 72.2, 72.9, 69.75, 70.1 Ultratech Ce, 970, 1015.2, 904, 926.85 Union Bank O, 304.5, 308.4, 295.1, 296.6 Unitech Ltd, 83.1, 83.8, 79.65, 80.1 United Phosp, 175, 176, 166.3, 167.2 Videocon Ind, 119.5, 119.5, 111, 111.85 Vijaya Bank, 57.25, 58, 54, 54.2 Voltas Ltd, 178.2, 179.5, 173.3, 174.05 Welspun Guj, 272.5, 281, 266.35, 268.85 Wipro Ltd, 681.4, 681.4, 657.4, 660 Yes Bank Lim, 289.5, 290.4, 278.3, 279.4 Zee Entertai, 299, 301, 288.55, 289.65
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FM no to petro hike roll-back
PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4 Rejecting the Opposition demand, the government today ruled out rolling back the hike in fuel prices, saying the fiscal situation did not permit it. "Sorry. It is not possible as the situation is very difficult, please bear with me and let us wait for better days," Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said on the demand for withdrawal of duty hikes in petrol and diesel. He was responding to the debate on Finance Bill in Rajya Sabha after which it was returned to the Lok Sabha. With this, the nine-week budget exercise was completed. Mukherjee had in the Budget for 2010-11 raised excise and
customs duty on auto fuels to garner Rs 26,000 crore. The hike in duties had resulted in petrol price being increased by Rs 2.71 a litre and diesel by Rs 2.55 per litre. The Opposition has been demanding roll-back of the duties saying the fuel price hike hurt the common man and added to inflationary pressures on food items. On rising inflation, which is near 17 per cent, the Minister admitted that food prices are high and hurting the common man but asserted that the Public Distribution System (PDS) needs to be revamped and made effective to blunt the impact. "PDS must be in place. It must be functional. Sitting at
LAUNCH PAD
Samsung’s Konect Plus monitor
PANJIM (HBD) -- Samsung Electronics introduced its new Multi-Function Monitor (MFM) for the Indian market. The new MFM monitor expands the range of Samsung LCD monitors available in the Indian market and represents the perfect blend of performance and elegance in design. The monitor gives the users the option of connecting the LCD Monitor with the set top box, home theatre, DVD player, game console, camera or camcorder with its HDMI port, thereby giving HD Connectivity option. Designed for optimum clarity and picture quality, the monitor has a dynamic contrast ratio of 50,000:1 and a 5ms response time. The Samsung P2370MS is uniquely designed with a ToC design with ‘Charcoal grey’ gradation – the ToC bezel changes its colour depending on different lighting conditions. Its crystal neck with cobalt blue hue embodies a floating image and makes the monitor stand apart from conventionally mass produced models. The new Multi-Function Monitor boasts of “Starlit Touch Buttons” which are touch sensitive and display mellow light which appears with a finger touch and disappears automatically , making a clean and neat front bezel. Samsung P2370MS offers comfortable view with a 16:9 Wide screen and a realistic full high definition resolution of 1920x1080p. The LCD monitor has been manufactured based on ecofriendly technologies and does not utilize paint spray for gloss. As a result , the monitor does not have any dangerous Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) thus allowing the product to be recycled, contributing to Samsung’s Planet First Green initiative. The Samsung P2370MS MFM monitor is priced at 16,000.
New BMW 5 Series in India
the Centre, it is not possible to run PDS. Primarily, it is the responsibility of the states," Mukherjee said. Asserting that there was adequate foodgrains' stock available, he said the government has decided to offload the stocks to the states at prices at which the Centre has procured. It is not possible to provide
Rising costs to hit Nerolac margins
subsidy across the board as the Centre has been providing subsidised foodgrains to different vulnerable sections of the society. Under Antayodya Scheme, the government is providing rice at Rs two a kg, for BPL it is available for Rs 12 per kg and for certain sections of APL, rice is being sold at Rs 6.80 a kg.
ReuTeRs MUMBAI, MAY 4
Rising inputs costs are likely to drag down profit margins for India's No 2 paintmaker Kansai Nerolac Paints in FY11 to FY09 levels, after a stronger-thanexpected rise last year, a top executive said on Tuesday. "I don't think we will be able to maintain it at 14 percent, as you see inflation has been high," Prashant Pai, vice-president finance, said. "Last quarter the PBT was around 11.5 percent... one can look around at that range, if the prices are stable." The executive said he expects the Indian paints industry to grow about 14-15 percent in FY11, mainly driven by strong demand from automobile sector.
Axis Bank, Max NY Life in tie-up
PANJIM (HBD) -- Axis Bank and Max New York Life Insurance have forged a 10 year strategic relationship, a first of its kind in bancassurance. Max New York Life Insurance has signed a corporate agency relationship with the Axis Bank and provides customized life insurance solutions to customers via the bank’s network. The tie up will help strengthen Max New York Life Insurance’s strategy of multi-channel distribution and presence across the nation. Axis Bank and Max New York Life Insurance expect to garner an additional customer base of 20 lakh customers in the next 5 years.
India 2nd globally as most confident market: survey PTI CHENNAI, MAY 4
India ranks second worldwide among businessmen on the trade confidence level after the recent global financial crisis, a survey has said. The country, with 133 points, ranks next to United Arab Emirates with 134 points on the global trade confidence
Resolve ULIP row quickly, says govt PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
The government today informed the Rajya Sabha that it has asked Sebi and Irda to expeditiously get a binding legal order over the jurisdiction of unit-linked insurance products (ULIPs). "The Sebi has moved the Supreme Court seeking transfer of various proceedings pending before the high courts. So that the highest court of the land can determine and settle these disputes," minister of state for finance Namo Narain Meena told the Upper House in a written reply. The insurance regulator IRDA and market watchdog SEBI are locked in a turf war over control of ULIPs, which are in investment products but issued by insurance companies.
level index, according to the survey conducted by Hongkong Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC). Vietnam, with 132 points and Brazil with 129, are third and fourth respectively. France, with 95 points, was 17th and last in the index,with a very low confidence level,HSBC India Trade and Supply Chain
Head Bhriguraj Singh told reporters here. He said the survey had found that some markets, including Asia Pacific region, Latin America, Canada and Europe were in positive territory after the financial crisis. A total of 5,120 small and medium exporters globally were respondents for the find-
PANJIM (HBD) -- The new BMW 5 Series was unveiled at the exclusive BMW pavilion which has been specially constructed for the launch in India. The new BMW 5 Series is available in two petrol variants – 535i and 523i and two diesel variants – 530d and 525d and can be ordered at BMW dealerships across India. The BMW 5 Series has significantly contributed to the success and image of BMW in India. BMW India has sold over 3600 units of the 5 Series in India since 2007. The all India ex-showroom prices in INR are as follows. The new BMW 523i is priced at Rs 38.9 lakh; the new BMW 525d is priced at Rs 39.9 lakh and the new BMW 530d at Rs 45.9 lakh. The 523i, 525d and 530d will be produced at the BMW Plant Chennai. The 535i will be available as a CBU (completely builtup unit) and will have an ex-showroom price of INR 58,00,000. The new BMW 5 Series will be available in Alpine White as non-metallic paintwork and in the following metallic colours: Space Grey, Titanium Silver, Black Sapphire, Havanna, Cashmere Silver, Deep Sea Blue, Milano Beige, Imperial Blue Brilliant Effect and Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect. Dakota leather is the standard upholstery for the new BMW 5 Series and is available in the following colour combinations: Oyster / Black, Black / Black, Vento Beige / Vento Beige, Oyster / Oyster dark and Cinnamon Brown / Black. The following interior trims are available: Fine-wood trim Ash Grain Brown and Fine-wood trim ‘Fine line” anthracite.
Thomas Cook’s Private Van Tours MuMBAI (PTI) -- Thomas Cook (India), today said it has launched a new product -- Private Van Tours – which provides a traveler an opportunity to drive around in a private, chauffeur driven van at his convenience. With Private Van Tours, the traveler travels in the luxury van spacious enough to comfortably seat him and his family and a friend or two, the company said in statement here. "We have well-trained chauffeurs to navigate, the traveler can simply sit back and enjoy his holiday. We have the finest hotels, best short listed sight seeing at the destinations of the traveler's choice," the company said. "We clearly see a demand for this product which gives the traveler the best of both worlds, the flexibility to make his own itinerary and the comfort of traveling in a group. This product is perfectly suited to those travelers who typically like to travel with their friends or close relatives in a group," Thomas Cook's COO (Leisure Travel), Vishal Suri, said. Thomas Cook (India) is the largest integrated travel and travel-related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include foreign exchange, corporate travel, leisure travel and insurance.
Premium Indian hotel chain, the Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, is investing Rs.2,200 crore (nearly $500 million) towards expansion, with plans to actively participate in public-private-partnership projects to promote tourism in the country. The group, operating luxury hotels under the brand name The Lalit, will invest Rs.1,200 crore on expanding properties in the the premium segment, said the group's chairperson and managing director Jyotsna Suri. 'We are coming up with hotels in Kolkata, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Noida, Amritsar and Dehradun over the next two years. The properties in Chandigarh and Jaipur are almost ready. These will be operational by early next year,' Suri told IANS in an interview. The group, which represented InterContinental Group of hotels before rebranding itself in 2008, plans to double the number of rooms in luxury segment to 3,600 by 2012 from the present 2,000, the chairperson said.
Grand Luxe on expansion drive PTI CHENNAI, MAY 4
Grand Luxe Hotels, formerly ETL Hospitality Services, a division of Indian Green Grid Group is investing close to Rs 110 crore for its expansion in the hospitality market in Tamil Nadu, an official said. The company, which has already set up a Hotel in Madurai called 'Heritage Madurai', would establish a luxury hotel in Pudukottai and also a mall, including a multiplex, in Coimbatore,Grand Luxe Hotels CEO G Thiagarajan told reporters.
points from 117 in the second half of 2009, which reeled under the impact of the global financial crisis. Giving statistics, he said exports were around $12.4 billion in January 2009, but rose to $14.3 billion in Jan 2010. Similarly, exports in Feb 2010 also increased to $16.1 billion from $11.09 billion in Feb 2009.
Exports in 2008-09 stood at USD 162 billion and marginally increased to $164 billion in 2009-10, he said. He said the survey had found that 60 per cent of Indian exporters expect finance from banks to increase in the next six months, while 59% are confident of having access to finance through banks.
IRDA tightens norms on equity-linked plans AGeNCY CHENNAI, MAY 4
The insurance regulator has tightened the norms on all unit linked insurance plans (ULIPs) to offer life cover on these products, even as it is fighting a turf war with markets watchdog on overseeing such equitylinked schemes. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) has said the norms would be applicable from July 1, adding that all ULIP policies, including pension and annuity products, should offer a minimum sum assured payable on death. The tightening of rules is seen as a fallout of its tussle with the capital markets regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), over the regulation of ULIPs, a popular investment product. But IRDA member-actuary R
Kannan said the policy revision was an ongoing process. 'The new norms are no way connected with the current issue with SEBI,' Kannan said. SEBI last month had barred 14 insurers from selling these products without its approval. The ban was, however, lifted after the government's intervention. The matter has gone to the courts, which will rule who would regulate ULIPs. The IRDA had banned loans on ULIPs and allowed partial withdrawals only after fifth anniversary year of the policy. Under the revised guideline, however, in the ULIP pension and annuity products, it has banned partial withdrawal and asked the life insurers to convert the accumulated fund value into an annuity at maturity. But the insured will have the option to commute up to a
Lalit Suri group firms up $500 m expansion plan AGeNCY NEW DELHI, MAY 4
ings and were asked for their outlook for the next six months, he said. He said emerging economies topped the index with 122 points against 106 points for developed markets. Stating that the confidence level among Indian exporters remained upbeat, he said trade confidence in India grew to 133
It is also looking at opportunities in the mid segment and has planned 25 hotels with an investment of Rs.800 crore ($175 million). 'By 2013, we plan to have an inventory of 1,400 rooms in the mid segment. We will set up mid-market hotels in Tier-I and Tier-II cities like Ludhiana and Surat. Each of these hotels will have 50-75 rooms,' Suri said. The group will fund the expansion through a mix of internal accruals and debt. At present, brand The Lalit has eight properties in India, six hotels operate under The Lalit brand, two in Goa and Mumbai have a co-branding with InterContinental. On the two overseas properties, Suri said a hotel in Dubai and the resort at Koh Samui in Thailand will start next year. 'The Lalit Grand Fort Dubai and the Lalit Resort and Spa in Koh Samui will be ready for guests by 2011,' she said, adding the group was investing around Rs175 crore (nearly $40 million) in the Thai property. She also hinted that the group has plans to raise capital through initial public offer. 'Not right now, but we may come up
with an offer when the market is right -- maybe in a year or two.' Talking about public-private partnerships, Suri said: 'We are keen on such projects. We want to be an active participant. Right now, we are working only with the government of Rajasthan, but we will pursue such projects in other states and at the Central level.' At present, the group is overseeing public conveniences at Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar and Albert Hall Museum in Rajasthan. It also maintains a three-acre garden at the Jantar Mantar and Albert Hall Museum in the state. Suri said as part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives, the group also provides vocational training in the hospitality industry, including computer literacy and personality development programmes under Project Disha. 'We are providing library facilities and offering professional training through centres in Khajurao (Madhya Pradesh), Udaipur (Rajasthan) and Bekal (Kerala). Soon we will come up with centres in Kolkata and Dehradun.'
maximum of one-third of the accumulated value as lump sum at the time of maturity. In the case of surrender, only up to a maximum of one-third of the surrender value could be availed in lump sum and the remaining amount must be used to purchase an annuity, the new norm stipulates. On the top-up premium, IRDA has stipulated that it should have a lock-in period of three years from the date of payment. Top-ups are not allowed during the last three years of the contract. A top official of a private life insurer said that most of pension and annuity products were sold as pure investment products. 'As a result, life insurers see large surrenders and withdrawals in these two segments affecting their operations.' For most of the life insurers, pension products con-
Pearson to sell IDC stake for $2 b ReuTeRs LONDON, MAY 4
British media group Pearson Plc agreed to sell its 61 percent stake in financial data provider Interactive Data (IDC) for $2 billion in cash, which it will use to accelerate its expansion. The sale is part of a deal under which the whole of IDC will be acquired by investment funds managed by Silver Lake and WarburgPincus in a transaction with a total value of $3.4 billion, Pearson said on Tuesday. IDC shareholders will receive $33.86 per share, a premium of about 33 percent over the closing share price on January 14, the last trading day before IDC announced that its board was reviewing strategic alternatives. IDC shares closed at $32.99 on Monday. "Pearson and Interactive Data have extensive growth opportunities and ambitious expansion plans," Pearson Chief Executive Marjorie Scardino said in the statement. "We believe this transaction will give both companies greater focus and opportunity to invest more in their strong market positions," she added.
tribute nearly 25 percent to their premium income. With turf war between IRDA and SEBI on the ULIP issue, he said, the former seemed to pre-empt any such recurrence in the pension and annuity products. But Kannan said: 'The rationale for the new guideline is to offer life insurance cover in all products. While longevity risk of a policyholder is borne by the life insurer in the case of pension products, we wanted to offer life insurance cover on all products'. Citing the 47 pension products currently in the market, Kannan said only 25 offered life insurance cover and the remaining 22 provided an option for the policy-holder to opt for life cover. 'Only 35-40 percent of the pension policy holders have life insurance cover and we want
to offer that to all the policy holders,' Kannan said. However, R. Ramakrishnan, industry expert and a member of the Malhotra committee on insurance reforms, said the concept of top up premium should be scrapped. 'Top-up is purely a mutual fund concept and it shouldn't be allowed in life insurance policies. For the amount of top-up a person should be issued a single premium policy,' he said. According to him, there is no difference between pension and annuity products in India unlike in the UK where pension products are offered handsome tax concessions. 'To prevent surrenders and withdrawals the difference between the premium paid and the surrender value should be taxed at source,' Ramakrishnan suggested.
FritoLays eyes 2-digit growth PTI MUMBAI, MAY 4
Even as the strong global sales of PepsiCo Inc's snacks and drinks helped its profit go up by 26 per cent, its Indian arm also expects a double-digit growth this year, a senior company official said today. "We (FritoLay India) expect a double-digit growth this year. We have already test-marketed some new flavours this season and the products are getting a good response. The products have already hit the market," PepsiCo India director marketing (FritoLay India) Deepika Warrier said. The company today formally launched its four new flavours -- Mastana Mango, Tangy Twist, Hip Hop Honet and Chilly and Cheesy Mexicana. The flavours are the result of a 10-month long campaign carried out by PepsiCo in which it had sought ideas from the common man. The firm, through its Give Us Your Dillicious Flavour campaign, got 1.3 million ideas from across the country of which it shortlisted four participants, who bagged a Rs 5 lakh cash prize for their 'delicious'
ideas, she said. However, the company would be choosing the best flavour among the four that will be piloted for the next two months, and the winner would get a prize money of Rs 50 lakh and one per cent royalty of the sales revenue. FritoLay India is one of the market leaders in the Indian snack foods segment and has other brands like Cheetos (potato wafers), Qauker Oats and Aliva low fat baked biscuits. The Lays potato chips, however, dominate with 80 per cent of the total volumes, Warrier said, adding the flavours are typical of the Indian market and taste and the company expects a good sales from the new products. FritoLay's global sales rose this year with growth coming mainly from India and China. Warrier said the company also plans to enter into new food segments and launch more products this year. She, however, declined to divulge any figures of investments or revenue it expects from the Indian market.
Accor eyes growth in Mideast, Asia markets ReuTeRs DUBAI, MAY 4
French hotel and services group Accor, which recently posted better-than-expected first-quarter results, said on Monday it saw room for further growth in certain "hot spots" in the Middle East and North Africa, China and India. Syria and Saudi Arabia were key areas where Accor, which has a pipeline of 20 hotels in the Middle East including Egypt, sees opportunity for growth, Christian Karaoglanian, chief development officer of Accor Hospitality told Reuters. "Saudi might be the most at-
tractive county for development in the Middle East... there's still room for growth for all brands, particularly budget," Karaoglanian said. "Potentially, we feel there's room for a dozen of properties in the next two-to-three years," he added. Saudi Arabia, the Arab world's largest economy, suffers from a shortage of hotel units, and is developing its hospitality sector to meet growing demand for domestic, regional and religious tourism. "Syria, there's real change that may bring about a new era for tourism," said Karaoglanian,
adding the hotel market was undersupplied. "We see eight10 hotels in the next five-10 years."
Additionally, Abu Dhabi could do with up to six more hotels, and Qatar up to four, he said. Accor, the world's fourthlargest hotel group, has a network of 33 hotels in the Middle
East, excluding Egypt, and targets a total of 50 hotels by end2012. In the next five years, Accor plans to open 3,000 rooms per year in the Middle East and Egypt, Karaoglanian said. CHINA, INDIA GROWTH Globally, the company plans to bring to the market 3540,000 rooms per year, including new and converted developments, Karaoglanian said, adding that China and India are key markets for expansions. "A lot of Chinese investors want to invest in hotels and we regularly sign new contracts,"
he said. "We can increase our presence by 20 hotels a year for the next 10 years." India, another big focus area for Accor, is also an undersupplied market with only 125,000 rooms, said Karaoglanian. "There is a tremendous market for all brands. We have far fewer players than in China," he said. "We should open an average of 10-12 hotels a year for the next 10 years." Accor invests 200 million250 million euros ($266 million-$333 million) in hotel development per year, with 25 percent in Asia, mainly India, said Karaoglanian.
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Wednesday, 5 May, 2010
Fresh fruits, salads and natural beverages make up an ideal menu to cope with the sweltering heat of Goa’s summer time as the heat hardly allows us to even imagine gobbling down some sumptuous meals. Well, aren’t we lucky that Goa is home to a myriad variety of fruits and berries, some of which the state’s urban population may not even be aware of. Here’s a mouth-watering glimpse…
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Bravery Beyond the Mundane The truly brave are those who work without expecting any recognition and hence it is our duty to acknowledge their valour. It is through their selfless acts that we can renew our faith in humanity. Herald pays tribute
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BY JANICE RODRIGUES HERALD FEATURES ravery and valour are traits commonly associated with soldiers of war or knights in shining armour. But sometimes there are circumstances that make even the simplest of the civilians exude unthought-of bravery. Some of these acts of bravery are worthy of honours, and many awards are bestowed upon those who exhibit selfless braver y, sometimes even posthumously for those who have lost their lives trying to save someone else. The National Bravery Awards, The Godfrey Phillips Awards and the latest addition, The National Ghanshyam Binani Children’s Awards, have honoured adults and children for their acts of selfless bravery. The awards are just a token to appreciate the act done, what is more important is the act itself. The Binani Awards, held for the first time in Goa, felicitated two brave souls who by their daredevil acts saved something as precious as human life. Gaurav Singh Saini and Baby Jahanavi were felicitated for their respective acts of selfless bravery by the Braj Binani Group. Gaurav Singh Saini, who had also been conferred by the title of Bharat Award at the hands of the Prime Minister on the eve of the Republic Day, was awarded the Ghanshyam Binani Children’s Award for the male child category. Saini, at 13, an age where children dream of becoming something like their heroes, became a hero himself, when he saved about 60 people during a stampede at the Naina Devi Temple in Himachal Pradesh on August 3, which left around 160 people dead. “I was with my family and some people came rushing towards us panicking, resulting in a stampede,” he recollects, wistfully, “at that moment all I could think of is climbing up the wall and holding on to the barb wires, I looked around and
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Zaifoll
Ponnos
Khajur
Binddam
The Portuguese Language and the Goans
The Goa Association of Teachers of Portuguese (GATP) is holding a preparatory Portuguese course for students through the month of May. The Herald finds out about the Portuguese language in relation to the Goan youth
BY NOMRATHA FERNANDES HERALD FEATURES s the scale of political control tipped toward the people of Goa upon the leaving of the Portuguese in 1961, the cultural scale didn’t budge an inch. Persons from all walks of life maintained the status quo set by the Portuguese with cultural change initially being gradual. With alterations in the education system, the younger generations didn’t have Portuguese as a compulsory subject at school, but they continued to speak it at home, especially among the upper classes where it is still studied and spoken. The number, however, is comparatively much less. Presently, it is one among three optional languages taught at the high school and higher secondary school level. “Orals are a part of the Portuguese syllabus, but most of it is theory. It is more exam-oriented in nature than anything. The students are preparing for a written exam,” says a member of GATP who is a teacher with 15 years of experience. This is the syllabus followed by all schools under the Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education. So what is the state of conversational Portuguese in Goa? “I have received complaints from parents stating that their children will respond to them in English when spoken to in Portuguese. On the other hand, you will find that students whose families converse in Portuguese will speak the language freely themselves,” she says putting forth an idea of the current state of conversational Portuguese in Goa. As the Portuguese language has cultural value to Goa, we should not let it dwindle away into the pages of history, rather keep it alive through our youth. We learn that interactive activities organised in the past by the GATP have brought out students conversational Today, trying something talents in Portuguese. “With the inter-school skit competition last year I witnessed some new won't be as rewardof the students speak the language extremely fluently, that too in just six months,” she ing as returning to an old exclaims. favorite. You are feeling (23 Sep – 22 Oct) pretty clued-in today, To double interest in Portuguese among the youth of Goa the lady member suggests the and for good reason: people are circulation of the more current Portuguese movies, documentaries, music. “The young making a lot more sense to you. should be provided with entertaining and informative matter in Portuguese, just like their It's one of those things that helps English counterparts,” she states, “That will show them the Portuguese of today, which will you get by when others are feeling confused. draw and sustain their interests,” she adds. Besides the cultural connect that Portuguese has to Goa, in today’s global village it is an New ideas are banging asset to be able to speak a foreign language. Also knowing a language implies an opportunity on your door -- open it up and let them in. Get to discover a whole different culture which enriches one’s knowledge of the world. to know them. It's a great “The cultural attachment is too strong for Portuguese to be wiped out of the Goan (23 Oct – 21 Nov) time to change the way culture,” she ends on a positive note. you live your life in some small way.
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HOROSCOPE Today you get a vision of the future -- and it's not what you thought it would be. You need to (21 Mar – 19 Apr) inject some fresh ideas into your work or home life -- so it's a good thing they're easy to come by today! You may find that your closest friends are all fonts of inspiration. An outrageous personality has great influence over you now. Embrace the energy. It's time to (20 Apr – 20 May) buckle down -- and not just for you! It may be time for you to enforce a little team spirit or something subtler, because anyone who strays too far from the norm today is bound for trouble.
Maybe you should rearrange your furniture or jumble your schedule in a way that makes more sense to you.
Hold on to your ideals. It's the one area where compromise is totally unacceptable. You're not (21 May – 21 Jun) entirely sure what to think right now -- and that's a strength! Your flexible opinions are sure to help you get through today's intense weirdness with your integrity intact.
Someone's launching an exploration and wants you on the team. It's an opportunity. You should (22 Nov – 21 Dec) find that you can make connections more easily today -your friends are much more likely to make introductions, and perfect strangers are much more in sync with your personal style.
Identifying a new idea is as important as having one, so listen and pay attention. Your people (22 Jun – 22 Jul) aren't easy to sway today -- but if you've got the most reasonable arguments, they are sure to see the light. Any emotional manipulation is almost certain to backfire, so go easy.
It's time to plan for the future, but don't try to nail down all the details yet. A cash flow problem (22 Dec – 19 Jan) causes a little bump in your plans, but not so badly that you can't make up for it. See if you can get your friends to help you out for the interim -- or just roll back some spending.
When you witness an ego clash today, you'll get some key insight into a coworker. Things aren't (23 Jul – 22 Aug) exactly the way you want them to be today, but that's okay -in fact, you may get a chance to show off a little! If you can adapt to circumstances, someone important is sure to approve.
Temper your excitement with skepticism. Getting your hopes up isn't a good idea today. A flash (20 Jan – 18 Feb) of brilliance comes your way early today -- but that's not really all that special for you. What makes this one different is the ease with which you can explain it to those around you.
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It's a waste of time to let your dreams influence your choices. Stick to reality. Now is a great time (19 Feb – 20 Mar) for you to consider your future -- maybe your career, maybe your family life or maybe some personal ambition. You shouldn't set concrete goals, but you should think big.
Imran Khan joins the Shirtless Brigade I
mran Khan has been out of sight for a while but will be seen a lot soon. Ever since Imran’s shirtless pictures, for the film ‘I Hate Luv Storys’, were released, Dharma Productions phone has not stopped ringing. And guess what?! It’s his gay fans who are totally bowled over and are demanding autographed pictures from the production. Well, all his fans need not worry as they will get to see a lot of the sexy star this year with films like ‘I Hate Luv Storys’, ‘Break Ke Baad’ and ‘Delhi Belly’ all lined up. The actor gave us a few tit bits about these upcoming films. ‘I Hate Luv Storys’ is a romantic comedy set on a backdrop of the film industry. The lovely Sonam Kapoor, whom Imran has longed to work with, will be the leading lady in this film. Imran plays the role of an assistant director and Sonam is an assistant designer. IHLS is now complete and all set to release on the July 2, 2010.
The promotions of the film will be starting soon while the shirtless pictures of Imran have already made the fans go gaga over him. About Delhi Belly, Imran says, “Delhi Belly is a film about three guys, there’s no romantic track. It’s the kind of cinema you haven’t seen in India before. For one, it’s in English. That alone makes it different because only a minority speaks the language in our country and that makes it a niche film. I fell madly in love with the script when I read it. I’d have done anything to be a part of this film. It’s turned out exactly the way I had visualised.” About ‘Break Ke Baad’ all that Imran has to say is that it is not a typical boy meets girl and falls in love kind of a movie. The couple has been in a long term relationship and decides to break-up. About co-star Deepika Padukone, Imran says that she is one of the hardest workers he knows and a thorough professional.
seen many children getting trampled upon.” “I then stretched out my hand to pull them up, all I could think of was trying to save as many people as I could,” says Saini. And he did just that while clinging on to the barb wires that were cutting into his palms, scars of which are still visible on his hands. The valiant hero who has just answered his board exams aims to join the military when he gets older. The lanky frame of Gaurav Saini comes as a contrast to the tiny frame of the six year-old girl, Jahanavi who was awarded for her bravery. The young lass, who is barely even aware of the grave danger she put herself into while trying to save her ten-month old baby brother, comes across as just another innocent child who has come to an amusing function. The incident occurred when, due to a short circuit, some huts went up in flames in the tiny village of Pithanivaripalem in the East Godavari District in Andhra Pradesh. Since both her parents were out at work, this Std II girl was alone at home with her younger brother. When the incident occurred, she was playing outside. “She says the moment the fire broke out, she realised her brother was trapped inside, without any delay she acted quickly and rushed inside the burning hut and came back with her brother clutched in her arms,” said her translator. Jahanavi, upon being asked what made her run into the house, replied, “I couldn’t think of anything else but my brother, the flames didn’t scare me and I feel good that I saved him.” The presence of mind that these two recipients have exuded has helped save life, and the Braj Binani Group has taken the initiative to instil confidence and courage into these young souls.
Jennifer and Nicole’s Beachside Bonding These two beauties seem to be getting along like a house on fire
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wo beautiful women, known for their graceful demeanour, style and class, will soon be seen sharing the same screen space. And guess what, instead of the cat fights or cold war that are quite common when two beautiful women work together, these two beauties seem to be getting along like a house on fire! Jennifer Aniston and Nicole Kidman looked like the best of friends on the set of their new film ‘Just Go With It’. The romantic comedy – set for release in 2011 – sees a plastic surgeon, played by Adam Sandler, telling his younger girlfriend a lie that he is married with children because he is afraid of commitment. He then has to enlist the help of Aniston’s character and her children to pose as his fictional family so his girlfriend leaves. During their shoot in Maui, the cast, apart from playing their parts onscreen, had a gala time behind the scenes as well. While Adam Sandler goofed around in the
background in between takes, the ‘Friends’ star and the flame-haired beauty enjoyed some girly chat time. A new scene is no doubt a nice break for Jennifer whose filming schedule has allowed her to escape the media circus surrounding her and Gerard Butler’s relationship following the speculation that arose after their recent flick ‘The Bounty Hunter’. ‘Just Go With It’ will also see the cast having to jet out to Los Angeles, Hawaii and Kauai for filming. Other stars include Brooklyn Decker, Heidi Montag, Rachel Specter and Dave Matthews. The release date is currently February 11, 2011.
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GOA’S HEARTBEAT Wednesday, 5 May, 2010
WHAT’S UP IN GOA?? An invitation to young tabla and sitar players for participating in the inaugural function of the Commonwealth Games 2010, to be held at Delhi on October 3 is made by the Kala Academy, Panjim. The last date to register is May 5. Call 2420452. The art exhibition ‘Different Moments’ featuring fifteen budding artists is being held till May 5 at the Kala Academy. The exhibition is being held to mark the 50th anniversary of Sanukth Maharashtra. It will remain open to the public from 10am to 7:30pm. Call 2420452. The presentation of the Sahitya Puraskar for the year 2008 will take place on May 7 at 5.30pm at the Kala Academy, Panjim. Call 2420452. ‘Sobit Amchem Goem’, a festival of Goan music, dance and drama, organised by the Chicalim Youth Club will take place from May 6 to 9 at the Village Panchayat Ground, Chicalim. Call 9822120807. A creativity contest on graphic designing on the subject, ‘A new world…VISION 2050’ will be held from July 10 onwards. The last day for registrations is June 18. Call 9423885224 or 2225153. Visit www.mgmgoa.cm. The 15th European Film Fest 2010 is on till May 5. It is organised by the Entertainment Society of Goa and the Delegation of the European Union to India. The films will be screened at the Maquinez Palace, Panjim. The festival is free and open to all. ‘Works on Paper I’ by five artists V Aadhi, P Hitesh, N Kanhaiya, C Rajesh and U Rajendra is being held till May 26 at the Tamarind Art Gallery, Calangute between 11am to 2pm and 3 to 8:30pm on all days except Mondays. Call 9822481481 or 6514796. A seminar titled, ‘Developmental Issues in Goa: A Media – Government
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iatrogenic Pronunciation ahy-a-truh-JEN-ik Function Adjective Meaning : a malady induced inadvertently by a physician or surgeon or by medical treatment or diagnostic procedures Example Sentence Chronic insomnia can be an iatrogenic condition as sufferers use hypnotics to treat sleeplessness.
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HERALD FEATURES he Commonwealth Games 2010 to be held in India it is a matter of prestige for our country as it’s the first time that this international event will be held here. Along with the prestige of being hosts, it is also giving Goan musicians the chance to partake in the Inaugural ceremony to be held at the Kala Academy. Budding tabla and sitar artistes have been invited for an audition to the same. Given the number of Indian classical musical concerts on the rise, there is no dearth of artistes in the state. The opportunity to rise up to a national level will be the perfect means of showcasing the talents of Goa. The recommendations will be made through West Zone Cultural Centre for their final selection. Once selected, the ten-week long rigorous training and rehearsal sessions will begin from August 1 to October 2, a day before the Commonwealth Games open on October 3, 2010. Each of the artists will be provided with food, accommodation and transport, besides being paid honorarium as per the standard norms, all of which would be undertaken by the Commonwealth Organising Committee. The contest is open to any artist who has at least three years playing experience in either of the instruments.
May Day highlighted at Goa Chitra’s recent Concert
HERALD FEATURES ffering a kaleidoscopic view of Goan arts and craf ts through the years is Goa Chitra, a tribute by its founder to his ancestors and their way of life. On the occasion of Labour Day, Goa Chitra organised a special programme that commenced at 8pm. Funny Quote The programme comprised a “ Never say, ‘oops’. number of live performances by Always say, "Ah, interesting.” various talented artistes of Goa. – Author Unknown Elvis Lobo and Cliff D’Souza made the evening come to life by the sound of their wonderful acoustic guitar playing. The evening had many other wonderful artists setting DAILY GROOK the mood of the people. SHADE TRADE Though the place was a bit crowded, it just added to the cosy appeal of the place as people sat around enjoying the pleasantries of by Francis Rodrigues music harmonised by the wonderful artists. many a beach-hawker Also joining the party and making it more enjoyable i sincerely do feel, were Dr Francisco Colaco, Darryl Coelho, Francis Perra, selling an umbrella Guillu Costa and Neville D’Souza, entertaining the masses gives a shady deal! who came to witness the extravaganza at the Goa Chitra, thus making this year’s Labour Day an unforgettable experiInstructions ence. for Sudoku SUDOKU SOL 544 The event also included a retro Jazz con9 x 9 letter: cert. To solve a Sudoku The delicious snacks and buffet that folpuzzle, every numlowed added to the warm get-together.
Medha Monteiro
Anitha Kailash
Final Works of Advanced Art Course to go on Display HERALD FEATURES he Bal Bhavan Movement completed 25 fruitful years in Goa on January 26, 2010. As part of the year long celebrations, Bal Bhavan’s first Advanced Art Course was inaugurated. The outcome of this course will be displayed in an exhibition. The Bal Bhavan, through tthis course, has reached out to various talented persons, even those who have no formal training in art. The classes began when the chairperson of the Bal Bhavan, Vijaydevi Rane felt that children as well as adults needed to further their talent and liking in art. It began a whole new system of education and has provided a platform for people of all ages who love art and ideas and want to pursue creative activities. Students, through this course have discovered talent in themselves they never knew existed.
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Meghana Shah
Girish Salgaonkar
Trupti Kavlekar
40 Years of Maestro’s Work Acknowledged HERALD FEATURES oted Goan vocalist and Principal of Goa College of Music, Pandit Kamlakar Naik was felicitated on the completion of 60 years of age and 40 years of dedication to Hindustani classical Music. He was felicitated by noted tabla player Pandit Suresh Talwalkar at Kala Academy, Panjim. The programme began with a vocal presentation by Prachala Amonkar, a disciple of Pt Naik, and was followed by the felicitation function. The evening, in honour of the vocalist, reached its tempo with a virtuoso performance by Pt Ulhas Kashalkar, a renowned artiste from the Gwalior Gharana with Pt Talwalkar accompanying him at the tabla. Pt Kashalkar began with Rag Malti Basant followed by a composition in Rag Nat Bihag and ended with ‘Pawan Chalat Ankhe Din Mitwa’ in Rag Parag.
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10:30 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta …. 11:15 Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo 12:00 Lapataganj 12:30 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta…. 13:00 Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo 13:30 Maniben.com 14:00 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta… 14:30 Lapataganj 15:00 FIR 15:30 Jugni Chali Jalandar 16:00 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta … 16:30 Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo 17:00 Gutar Gu 17:30 Lapataganj 18:00 FIR 18:30 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta … 19:00 Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo 19:30 Lapataganj 20:00 Maniben.com 20:30 Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta … 21:00 Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo 21:30 Jugni Chali Jalandar
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Opportunity at CWG for Goan Talent
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SUDOKU 545
Interface’ will take place on May 8 and 9 at the International Centre Goa, Dona Paula. Call 2452805-10. Dance classes are being held by Dance Illusions on May 5, 6 and 7 in Panjim at Hotel Campal, in Margao at Jive and in Vasco at Flintstone respectively. Call 9823014397 or 9890072074. A preparatory Portuguese course, organised by the Goa Association of Teachers of Portuguese (GATP) will run through the month of May 3 at the Institute Cameos, Panjim. Call 2422237 or 6647737. A reading of poems of Konkani poet, Dr Manohar Rai Sardessai will take place on May 9 at 6pm at Casa da Moeda, Panjim. A photography exhibition by Monica Bhasin will be held from May 5 to 15 from 10am to 7pm at the Sunaparanta – Goa Centre for the Arts, Panjim. Call 2421311. The inauguration of the expanded premises of Norbert’s Fitness Studio, Caranzalem will take place on May 7 at 5:30pm. It is free and open to all. Call 2462162, 9822120180 or 9822120331. ‘Movement and Sculpture’ a workshop by Crisologo Furtado, for children between 7 to 15 years will take place from May 5 to 7 from 3pm to 6pm. It will be held at the Sunaparanta, Goa Centre for the Arts, Panjim. Call 2421311. Art and craft classes which will cover flower making, parchment and metal embossing are being conducted. Call 9822169608. Candle making workshop of seven different types of candles will be held for kids and adults. Call 9850025287. Tailoring classes will take place every Saturday and Sunday from 3pm to 6pm at Porvorim. Call 9765731003 or 2411828.
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HERALD CROSSWORD - 545 Across 1- Antiquing agent; 5- Satisfies; 10- Puts on; 14- Corner; 15- Nonsense!; 16- Part of Q.E.D.; 17- One of two equal parts; 18- Bluffer's ploy; 19- I could ___ horse!; 20- Too; 22Reassign; 24- Turkish palace; 25- Flowering shrubs; 26Now ___ me down...; 28Femme fatale; 32- Analogous; 35- Corp. bigwig; 37- Republic in S North America; 38- Cutting tool; 39- Composition; 41Chat room chuckle; 42Charged; 45- A collection of articles; 46- Actress Ward; 47Echolocation; 48- Greek fertility goddess, flightless bird; 50Shape up; 54- Fine fiddle; 58Flag of France; 61- Impassive; 62- Mother of Ares; 63- Disney dog; 65- Chianti, e.g.; 66Back; 67- Try to pick up; 68Explorer Tasman; 69- Forearm bone; 70- Barbecue leftovers?; 71- Narrow inlets; Down 1- A Musketeer; 2- Tomb; 3- Conger catcher; 4- Chorus; 5- Agile; 6- Botanist Gray; 7- Pierce; 8Relaxed; 9- Celsius, for one; 10Burial at sea; 11- Like some history; 12- Defense grp. since 1949; 13- Remain; 21- Like Abner; 23- Gaelic language of Ireland or Scotland; 25- Baby blues; 27- Served perfectly; 29Anger; 30- Earth Day subj.; 31Vincent Lopez's theme song; 32Cairo cobras; 33- Corn syrup brand; 34- Victor's cry; 36- CIA
forerunner; 37- Legendary SOLUTION - 544 story; 40- Dynamic beginning; 43- Eyelash cosmetic; 44- Cube creator Rubik; 46Russian metal urn; 49Chow down; 51- A, as in Athens; 52- Ancient Greek city-state; 53- Verity; 55"The dog ate my homework," e.g.; 56- Fungal infection; 57- Icons; 58Drive-___; 59- Film spool; 60- OPEC member; 61Juniors, perhaps; 64- Digit of the foot;
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SPORTS
GOA, Wednesday, 5 May, 2010
Sporting Clube pip Mahindra, get a lifeline
Sporting…3
Mahindra…2
HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, MAY 4
Sporting Clube de Goa recorded a hard fought 3-2 victory over Mahindra United in an ONGC ILeague match at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda here on Tuesday. They trailed 2-1 at the break. This was a match Vishwas Gaunkar was desperate to win, and he did it as his team needed full points to stay alive in the top league. Sporting made their intentions clear as they instantly went on the offensive. Initially, Mahindra matched them in both attack as well as defence. However,it was the home side that enjoyed
the better of exchanges in both sessions. Sporting took Mahindra completely by surprise in the 9th minute but Mahindra United defender Denzil Franco thwarted Adil Khan as he headed out a cross from Freiman Peizoto on the goalline. Sporting survived a close call in the 20th minute when striker Sushil Kumar Singh’s feeble push went wide after he was spoonfed by Lamine Tamba. Mahindra forged ahead against the run of play in the 22nd minute. Striker Mo hammed Rafi worked his way down but was tripped by Rovan Pereira prompting referee Andrew Shekar to point to the spot. Sushil slotted past goalkeeper Felix D;Souza. Six minutes later, Agnelo D’Souza wasted a gilt-edged opportunity. After coach Vishwas replaced injured Kenji Arai with striker Nathaniel Amos, Sporting found the equalizer in the 37th minute. Rovan Pereira floated the ball across the Mahindra goalmouth. Amos judged the flight of the
ball and nodded in. Mahindra went into the attack and their efforts bore fruits in the 43rd minute through Rafi, who beat the off-side trap to connect a Justine Stephen long cross. After the changeover,
Mahindra called the shots and Steven Dias’ rasping drive hit the crossbar. A minute later, Junior Obagbemiro’s well executed free kick hit the post. Sporting restored parity in the 69th minute. Bisheshwor
E Bengal down Chirag Bengal…2 Chirag…1 PTI KOLKATA, MAY 4
A spirited East Bengal rode on Beingaichho Beiokhokhei's double strike to register a 2-1 win over Chirag United in their round 24 ONGC I-League clash at Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Tuesday. East Bengal scored through man-of-the-match Beiokhokhei in the 40th and 67thminutes. Chirag United's midfield,
which could not control the pace of the game, managed to reduce the margin through Joshimar Martins in the 69th minute. The victory enabled the Kolkata stalwarts to climb to the eighth spot and scamper out of the drop zone with 28 points from 22 matches. Chirag United, on the other hand, remained on 32 points, with two matches remaining. They are now winless for seven matches on the trot.
Viva beat Lajong
Viva…2
Lajong…1
UNI KOZHIKODE, MAY 4
Averting threat of relegation, Viva Kerala downed Shillong Lajong F C 2-1 in the ONGC ILeague football match at EMS Corporation Stadium here on Tuesday. Rahul P opened the account for Viva, taking a pass from Sirajuddin in 34th minute AND boosting the morale of his side which conceded three consecutive losses in away matches against JCT Phagwara (1-5), Pune FC (1-3) and Mumbai FC (1-0) on home ground. Giving a sigh of relief to Viva facing threat of relegation from the National football tournament,
Sabeeth C S increased the tally to 2-0 capitalising on a pass from Karma T in the 53th minute. In a quick move, James Gbilee earned the solitary goal for the visitors, who intensified their efforts to thwart the onslaught of the host in the second half, reducing the margin to 2-1. With this, Viva added three more points taking their total to 28 points whereas Lajong remained on 26. Viva's Bello Rasaq was adjudged man-of-the match for his outstanding performance during the encounter.
Singh floated the ball for midfielder Micheal Tayo, who headed it for Junior to punt the ball in. Man-of-the match Adil Kahn then came up with the matchwinner in the 81st minute. Ju-
nior’s fierce free kick just outside the rival penalty box was fisted away by Mahindra goalkeeper Subhashish and Adil pounced on the deflection to send the Sporting camp into raptures.
Mahindra were denied once again by the framework as Rafi’s swerving shot beat the goalkeeper but came off the post in injury time. Sporting move to 24 points from 24 matches.
HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, MAY 4
ian playmaker Roberto Mendes da Silva will marshal the midfield along with Climax Lawrence, Anthony Pereira and Clifford Miranda. Abhijit Mondal will be tending the goal while John Dias, Anwar Ali, Samir Naik and Valeriano Rebello will form the back four. Dempo chief coach Armando Colaco brushed aside the talk of pressure being on his side.
“We have two more games to go and just require four points,” said Colaco, who sounded confident that the title would return to their showcase.” Air India coach Yusif Ansari has problems. Mohammed Nabeel continues to be ruled out due to an injury. To compound matters, Air India will miss the services of Allen Dias and Praneel Mandon for double booking.
Dempo eye I-League crown
Fomer I-league champions Dempo Sports Club will be the over whelming favourites against Air India, Mumbai in a 24th round match of ONGC ILeague at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda on Wednesday. With one win and a draw in the their last two encounters Dempo are all set to regain the I-League title for the second time. Dempo currently on top with 47 points from 23 matches look sure to walk away with the title. Dempo will start with only two foreigners. Ranty Martins will spearhead the attack along with striker Joaquim Abranches. Brazil-
St Savio in semis HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, MAY 4
St Savio Sports Club, Calangute beat Sporting Club of Davorlim 1-0 to march into the semi-finals of All-Goa Alvernaz and Lalush Alemao memorial inter-village football organized by Churchill Brothers at Varca ground, on Tuesday. There was no score at half time. The all-important goal came in the 57th minute through Pedro Fernandes. St Savio goalkeeper Agnelo Fernandes who was outstanding was declared man-of- the match.
Betalbatim win ONGC I-League: Dempo v. Air India, Nehru stadium, Fatorda-Margao, 4 p.m. St Anthony’s super soccer: Betalbatim Sporting Club v. United Club of Nerul, Colva ground, 4.30 p.m. Coca Cola Celebration Cup soccer: Sai Avtar SC v. Candolim SC, 4 p.m; Candolim SC v. Calangute Association, 4.45 p.m; Calangute Association v. Sai Avtar SC, 5.30 p.m, Candolim ground. 2nd division Taca Goa U20 soccer: Aivao United FC v. Youth Sports Club of Colvale, St Cruz ground; Paradise Sports Club v. Sarzora Sports Club, Taleigao ground. Kick off 4 p.m. St Sebastiao soccer: St Caetano v. Mix Friends, A Lua ground, Merces, 5 p.m. Frank Pires memorial soccer: Friends XI, Anjuna v. PVC Parra, near Siridao church ground, 4.30 pm. Arpora-Nagoa Village Panchayat Cup soccer: Sangolda Lightning v. Sodiem Siolim Sports Club, Salt Lake ground, Arpora, 4.45 p.m. Holy Cross soccer: Don Bosco Oratory, Fatorda v. Dramapur Sirlim SC, Vodlemoll Kakoda, ground, 4.15 p.m. Alvernaz and Lalush Alemao memorial soccer: Varca Sports Club v. St Anthony’s Sporting Club,Colva, Varca ground, 4.30 p.m. Eslinda Alemao memorial soccer: Carmona Sports Club v. United Club of Benaulim, Davorlim ground, 4.30 p.m. James Alvares memorial soccer: Beach Speedo v. Fukott-II, Chicalim Boys v. Ferrari Boys of Varca, Bogmalo beach, from 4.45 p.m.
HERALD CORRESPONDENT QUEPEM, MAY 4
Betalbatim SC defeated Curtorim Gymkhana 7-6 via the tiebreaker in 4th quarter-final of 14th Holy Cross inter-village soccer tournament organized by Holy Cross Sports Club, Vodlemoll Kakoda. In the tie-breaker, Desmond Fernandes, Caje D’souza, Jeremy Fernandes, Luis Rogtao, Joe Fernandes, Joseph Fernandes and Denzil Rogtao were on target for Betalbatim while Rocky Carneiro, Roy Albuquerque, Minguel Hilario, Savio Fernandes, Roy Colaco and John Fernandes scored for Curtorim Gymkhana.
Maina advance HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
Maina Sports Club, Curtorim edged past Paradise Sports Club, Taleigao 1-0 in the inaugural match of Frank Pires Memorial Rolling Trophy soccer organised by Sridao Sports Club at Sridao church ground, today. Seby D’Cunha scored the all-important goal for Maina in the first half.
Taleigao ahead HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, MAY 4
In the inaugural match of NagoaArpora Panchayat Cup 2010 organised by Arpora Sporting Club, Sao Minguel Taleigao got the better of Anjuna Gymkhana 4-3 via the tie-breaker after both teams dished out a goalless draw at Salt Lake ground, Arpora on Tuesday. Cedric Peixoto, Victor Lobo, Samson Pereira and Francis Fernandes found the net for Taleigao while Vinayak Mulgaonkar, Stanley Sequeria and Andrew Pinto were on target for Anjuna.
Hemant stars for Salgaocar VASCO (HR) -- A pre-monsoon shower ruined nearly one-andhalf day’s play in 3-day Goa Premier League cricket semi-final between Salgaocar and Chowgule at BITS, Sancoale. Salgaocar ended the day on 196 for 6 in 78 overs on Tuesday. Once again in-form batsman Hemant Shetgaokar hit 62 after Salgaocar’s opening pair of Sagun Kamat and Swapnil
Asnodkar struggled to get runs. The 2nd day’s play was delayed by two hours after it was washed out yesterday. Salgaocar had just 6 runs on board after 40 minutes. Shetgaonkar added 62 runs to his tally. Ninand Pawaskar 39, Sagun Kamat 29 and Asnodkar 11 were Salgaocar’s main scorers. Santosh Shinde, Rayan D’ Souza and Amogh Desai took two wickets each for Chowgule.
Artit slams ton for Dempo PANJIM (HR) -- A scintillating 160 by Artit Wasawada, studded with 23 fours and a six, helped Dempo CC to pile up 428 for 9 declared in 123.2 overs against Goa Sports Academy on the second day of the 3-day GPL cricket semi-final at Gymkhana ground, here on Tuesday. Besides Artit’s classy innings, Dempo were well served by Sumi-
ran Amonkar and Rahul Keni who hit 86 each. Alok Shirodkar 21, Sunny Kanekar 23 were the other main run getters. Sayil Dhuri 3114, Sashi Kadam 2-52, Tushar Narvekar 2-57, Sachin Kohckar 135 were the main wicket takers. GSA were 27 for 1 after 44 overs. Rajshekar Harikant 16 n.o, Damodar Lotlikar 11 n.o. Mandar Chiplunkar 1-11.
Sesa FA beaten again PANJIM (HR) -- Malabar United registered a comfortable 3-0 victory over Sesa Football Academy in the ONGC Second Division League final round match at
KSFA stadium, Bangalore on Tuesday. Sesa suffered their second successive defeat in the final round; earlier going down to their local rivals Vasco SC 2-1.
Genevieve appointed as trainee: AIFF HERALD SPORTS REPORTER PANJIM, MAY 4
Genevieve Colaco has been appointed as a trainee in All India Football Federation (AIFF), stated Alberto Colaco, general secretary on Tuesday. Colaco does not specify if the post was advertised but the letter dated April 1, 2010 addressed to Genevieve says: “This has reference to your application and subsequent interview held for the above post, we are pleased to appoint you as trainee in AIFF at Dwarka office, New Delhi. You will be paid a stipend of Rs 8,000 per month. Your appointment is for a period of three months from March 2010.” In case of Tathagata Mukherjee, Colaco stated that he was appointed as an intern with the AIFF and assist in marketing events and IT department with an allowance of Rs 8000 per month from June 3, 2009 after
the Finance Committee had approved it for a period of 12 months. However, on August 28, 2009 the AIFF assigned him the new designation as Special Project Coordinator from September 2009 with the allowance remaining unchanged after the candidate’s request application on August 24 2009. Colaco has given the dates of joining as an intern as June 3, 2009 and the designation change as Special Project Coordintaor as September 3, 2009 with the designation change to director-National team, Vision India, AID 27 as 1st April 2010 although no letter to this effect has been produced as part of the enclosures to Herald. The AIFF does mot mention what post has been assigned to Genevieve and if the post was advertised or how many applications were sought for trainees and how many trainees were interviewed.
GOA DIARY Soccer tourney at Navelim
MARGAO (HC) - Enfermos Sports Club, Sinquetim-Navelim will organise their All-Goa inter-village football tournament for Atlanta Georgia Trophy in May at Rosary ground,Navelim. It has been sponsored by Goans Boys of Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The winners will get Rs 30,000 while the runners-up will receive Rs 20,000. Teams may contact Damaciano Fernandes on 9822589779 or Mafaldo Baretto.
3-a-side at Uguem
MARGAO (HC) – The Rising Stars of Uguem–Sanguem will organise their 6th All- Goa 3-a-side tie-breaker football tournament on May 8, opposite John Bar, Uguem at 7 p.m. Rs 13,000 and Rs 9,000 will be awarded to the winners and runners-up respectively. Details may be obtained on 9631889343 or 9745779812 or 9745510917. Spots entries will be accepted.
3-a-side football tourney
PANJIM (HSD) – Friends Circle, Fondegal will organise their 8th all-Goa 3-a-side football tie-breaker on May 8 near Maria Bar, Fondegal, Curtorim from 8 p.m. Rs 10,100 (winners) and Rs 8080 (runners-up) will be awarded.
GFA clubs registration
PANJIM (HSD) - The last date for submission of GFA registration and other forms for 2010-11 season is May 15. Clubs have been asked to submit forms alongwith fees.
SJFI convention in Goa
PANAJI (HSD) - The 34th National Convention of Sports Journalists' Federation of India will be held in Goa from May 5 - 9 with the seminar on World Cup on May 7. Ex-Olympians S S Narayan, Fortunato Franco, Arjuna awardees Brahmanand Shankawalkar, Bruno Countinho will be the panelists. It will also discuss the future of Indian cricket (May 5), the Olympic Gold Quest project (May 6) and Indian rugby (May 8). Kiran More, Amol Muzumdar, Kishen Narsi, Viren Rasquinha will be among key speakers. Greg Davey, Development Manger, Rugby India will make a presentation on India's preparations for the Commonwealth Games.
Queen’s Relay baton in Goa
PANJIM (HSD) – The Queen’s Baton relay will be held on September 7 and 8. It will arrive at Canacona on September 7 and it will be taken to Pernem on September 8.
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GOA, Wednesday, 5 May, 2010
Modi to reply next week ipl chargesheet PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
Suspended Indian Premier League Chairman Lalit Modi is likely to give next week his reply on charges levelled against him by the governing council. Modi is in the process o f f o r m u l a t i n g re sponses to various issues, including his relationship with Rajasthan Royals part owner Chellaram, raised by the IPL governing council on Monday last,
sources in the know said. After the IPL Governing Concil meeting on April 26, BCCI President Shashank Manohar had told reporters that contrary to Modi's claims that everybody knew about his relationship with Chellaram members of council were not aware of the stakeholders of Rajasthan Royals. Sources said that the reply to Modi would address in specific details about the information shared with council members and their public statements right from the IPL I. When contacted, IPL Vice Chairman Niranjan Shah told PTI telephoncially from Mumbai that Modi had introduced Chellaram as his brother-in law and "every
Kings XI Punjab reports Rs 25 cr loss in 08-09 PTI CHANDIGARH, MAY 4
The miseries of Kings XI Punjab seem to be unending. After finishing at the bottom of the IPL-III tally, the team owned by Actress Preity Zinta and others has informed the government that it suffered a loss of Rs 25 crore in the very first year (2008-09) of formation of the consortium KPH Dreams Cricket Private Ltd. According to financial statements submitted to the Registrar of Companies (ROC) here, KPH Dreams Cricket, which is co-owned by Bollywood actress Preity Zinta and industrialist Ness Wadia, earned a total income of Rs 55 crore while the total expenditure stood at close to Rs 80 crore in 2008-09. A senior official in ROC said on the condition of anonymity that "revenue from the franchise rights and sponsorships constituted a major share of the total income of the company while partic-
ipating in first edition of IPL." However, the company reported depreciation of Rs 30 crore and players cost of Rs 27 crore in its total expenditure for the year 2008-09. The company last week submitted its balance sheet and annual returns with the ROC here. On April 21, a local Court had issued notices to co-owners of Kings XI Punjab including Preity Zinta and Ness Wadia on a complaint filed by ROC accusing the Mohali franchise of not filing balance sheets and annual returns. Kings XI Punjab, which had committed to pay USD 76 million as franchise fee for over 10 years, in January this year had said that it was hoping to break even by March 2011. According to the filing, Preity Zinta and Ness Wadia hold 23 per cent stake each in the franchise, while Karan Paul, Chairman of Apeejay-Surrendra Group, has 4 per cent equity. The balance 50 per cent is with M.B. Finmart and Windy Investments.
body knew about it." Responding to his purported statement in 2008 as spokesperson of BCCI that he did not care about the Modi-Chellaram relationship, Shah said "but it was his (Modi's) responsibility as IPL Chairman to give the complete shareholding details. "Though I knew Chellaram and his relationship, I was not aware of his role in Rajasthan Royals," he said. Modi was suspended within minutes of IPL III finals in Mumbai and was next day served a chargesheet on impropriety, financial dealings of IPL and hiding his relationship with many of the promoters in different teams including Kings XI Punjab.
I will be ready for WC: Gallas AGENCIES FRANCE, MAY 4
William Gallas will recover from a calf injury in time for next month's World Cup, the France defender said on Tuesday. The Arsenal centre half picked up the injury in the Champions League quarter-final first leg game against Barcelona in March and coach Arsene Wenger said at the time that Gallas's season with the club was over. "I will be ready for France," Gallas told French daily Le Parisien. "Had it not been possible (to recover on time), I would have pulled out. Right now, I feel good and ready for France." France were drawn with hosts South Africa, Mexico and Uruguay in Group A for the June 11-July 11 World Cup. France coach Raymond Domenech is set to unveil his 23-man squad for the World Cup next week.
18 graduate from Sesa FA
Houghton still the coach; AIFF has no issues with him: Patel PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
The All India Football Federation president, Praful Patel today dismissed reports that National coach Bob Houghton had put in his papers after being shoddily treated by the AIFF. "The news about Houghton resigning as the football coach is not correct. I myself spoke to him last night in Cape Town," Patel told reporters outside the Parliament. "I think the only issue between the AIFF and the coach is that Houghton wants to know his future post January 2011, when his contract comes to an end," said the AIFF chief. "There is no other issue between him and the federation. He continues to be our coach
and I am sure the Indian team will play under his leadership in the Asian Challenge in Doha in January. The news about the shoddy treatment meted out to him was incorrect," he said. The AIFF Executive Committee would discuss the issue this week, he said. "We are looking into this situation. We are meeting on May 7 for the Executive Committee meeting where this issues will also be discussed. Once again, Houghton has not resigned," Patel said. The AIFF chief was reacting to reports that Houghton quit on Saturday following a tiff with AIFF officials over the extension of his contract. Houghton wanted his contract to be renewed till 2013,
along with a hike of USD 10,000 per month, and was apparently ticked off by the fact that AIFF was looking for a new coach. Sources close to Houghton, who reportedly is earning USD 2,40,000 per year as salary, said it was a top AIFF official who told the English coach's agent that the federation was looking for a new coach after his contract ends in January next year. Under Houghton, the National team had enjoyed one of its most productive era. He guided the team to three successive titles in the past three years -- two Nehru Cups and the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup that gave India the entry to next year's Asian Cup, a tournament they qualified for after 24 years.
Indian football will suffer if Bob leaves: Bhutia AGENCIES NEW DELHI, MAY 4
Indian footballers, led by captain Baichung Bhutia, on Tuesday threw their weight behind coach Bob Houghton and said the country's football fortunes would nosedive if the Englishman quits his job. Miffed at the way the All Indian Football Federation was looking for his successor after his current tenure expires on January 31 next year, Houghton has sent his resignation but the AIFF has denied it. Bhutia pleaded the authorities to cooperate with Houghton and said India ill-affords to let the Englishman go before the Asian Cup in Qatar in January next year. "It's sad that we are not cooperating with Houghton and obstructing in his way of functioning. It will be a big setback for Indian football if he leaves at this stage, when we are getting ready for Asian Cup. We need him more than anything else," Bhutia said. "I am sure Indian football profile will go up with his support. He had a big role in our qualification for Asian Cup. He is taking
El Salvador risk FIFA ban over govt intervention
Indian football in the right direction. India need him more than Houghton needs us," added Bhutia, who also heads the Football Players' Association of India. Bhutia's national team mate Gouramangi Singh credited the "gradual rise in profile" in Indian football to Houghton and said his leaving the job at this stage will demoralise the players. "Credit for the improvement of players and gradual rise of profile of the sport in the country in the last three years should mainly go to Houghton. If he goes now Indian football would go back to the square one," said the central defender. India's number one goalkeeper Subrata Pal, who prospered under Houghton in the last few years, said football in the country will suffer if he leaves now. "The step forward we have taken holding Bob's hand has been great. If he leaves Indian football will fall back by 50 years. Indian football will suffer a lot. We can not let this happen," he said. Right winger Steven Dias said, "I cannot think of a scenario where Bob will not be with
us. Being pitted in a tough group in the Asia Cup does not really scare us. This is much because of confidence he has raised among us." Midfielder Climax Lawrence and defender Surkumar Singh pleaded the AIFF to keep Houghton with the team. "For the past three years we have been following his tactics and formations. If a new person comes in at this crucial stage it will be difficult for us to adapt and we will not be able to produce good results. We need Bob Houghton to stay and the federation should try its best to keep Houghton with us," Climax said. "Houghton had told us the importance of this year. If we can stick together for eight months then we will definitely play a different football. All of us are disappointed having heard of his resignation. I hope the federation takes the necessary action required," Surkumar said. Mohun Bagan and East Bengal top officials, however, feel that Houghton has got undue advantage by "blackmailing" the AIFF and Indian football would not suffer if the Englishman leaves now.
Saligao emerge champs
REUTERS SAN SALVADOR, MAY 4
The Sesa FA trainees (Bruno Colaco absent as he is in Bangalore for 2nd Div I-League) after the graduation ceremony alongwith Alberto Colaco, Collin Toal, P K Mukherjee, Dr Bhatikar, Brahmannd Shankwalkar at Sanquelim on Friday. HERALD SPORTS REPORTERS PANJIM/MAPUSA, MAY 4
Eighteen trainees graduated from Sesa Football Academy at the 5th convocation ceremony at Sanquelim on Friday. Seven boys who were selected in 2006 completed their college education while seven others finished their HSS and four others completed the high school studies. In the four-year stay, the bioys were trained by head coach Anthony De Souza, asst Coach Ajay Acharya under the management headed by Dr N N Bhatikar. Chief Guest Alberto Colaco, General Secretary, AIFF whilst congratulating Sesa, disclosed that the AIFF had a goal to be among the top ten in Asia by 2010 and that to reach to that position there was need of acad-
emies like Sesa, TFA as well as everyone connected with football. Colin Toal, AIFF Technical said, “So far you trained and played not for the sake of winning, but for the sake of improving. But from tomorrow, it is a new start with your ability, but what is more important is your character and attitude that will make you successful in the pressureworld of professional football.” P K Mukherjee, Managing Director of Sesa Goa Ltd in his welcome address said: “Our vision and passion for football has brought us here today with not just one but two quality playing turfs which few top clubs can boast of. So far, more than Rs. 5 crore have been spent on nurturing Goan football and last year alone we have spent Rs.80 lakhs.” He reiterated his com-
mitment to award Rs.1 lakh to every graduate of Sesa Football Academy who would go on to play for India. Dr Bhatikar, administrator, proposed the vote of thanks. Seven boys from the batch represented Goa Under-21 side which went on to win the National Championship. Bruno Colaco and Girish Naik were also part of the India Under-19 camp. The Sports Authority of Goa awarded Rs.15,000 each to seven trainees - Charles Miranda, Gary D’Mello, Valerio Rodrigues, Relliston Fernandes, Joel Martins, Anthony Coutinho and Bruno Colaco. Eight of the boys are being absorbed into the senior Sesa team. Meanwhile, newly graduated Charles Miranda said: “I have been very happy, both in terms
of football as well as academics, at SFA for the past four years. I am sure this will be a strong foundation for me to move into the senior teams and ultimately represent India”. “ SFA days will never be forgotten. It has given us wings and a dream for the ultimate honour of playing in Indian colours. May be we would play in Europe like the international stars we adore,” vouched another trainee Girish Naik. The trainees: Randall Dias, Girish Naik, Lawrence Rodrigues, Anthony Coutinho,Gary D'Mello, Valerio Rodigues, Reliston Fernandes,Neves Fernandes, Mariano Fernandes, Bruno Colaco, Mkenze Fernandes, Stephen Fernandes, Charles Miranda, Amol Salgaokar, Joel Martins, Adwin Lucas, Marcus Fernandes, Slagen Gracias.
Calangute veterans felicitated
The Football Legends of Calangute awardees alongwith Dr. Suzana De Souza, Savio Messias, Fr. Peter Simon Mascarenhas, Bonney Sierro, Peter Carvalho, Diago Silveira, Cyriaco Dias, Valmiki Cardozo at Calangute. HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, MAY 4
Friends of Calangute under the banner of Football Legends of Calangute felicitated the Calangute footballers of yesteryears at a largely attended function at Poriat ground, Calangute recently. Football Legends of Calangute felicitated 15 footballers - Alex
Miranda, Anthony D'Souza, Peter Carvalho, Bruno Coutinho, Peter Gomes, Alex Coutinho, Anthony F. D'Souza, Bhaskar Gadekar, Digamber Haldankar, Zacarias Fernandes, Namshed Kundaikar, Sebastian Silveira, Luis Gonsalves, Romeo Mascarenhas and Yolanda De Souza for their superb contribution. Dr. Susana de Souza, Director
of Sports and Youth Affairs congratulated Football Legends for their superb gesture. Savio Messaias, GFA Secretary praised the organisers for the excellent thought. Fr. Peter Simon Mascarenhas was also present. Trophies were later given away by the organisers - Bonney Sierro, chief organiser, Technical
Director, Peter Carvalho, general secretary Diago Silveira, advisor Cyriaco Dias, field officer Valmiki Cardozo. Earlier, in the exhibition match, Calangute Association beat Sodiem Siolim Sports Club 2-1. Cliff Fernandes and Pedro Gonsalves found the mark for Calangute while Mayur Toraskar scored for Siolim.
El Salvador risk suspension from world soccer after the country's government said it did not recognise a FIFA commission running its football federation (Fesfut). World soccer's governing body FIFA designated a commission last July to put the Fesfut's books in order after its president Rodrigo Calvo resigned. The Fesfut now wants to get back to normal and elect a new board but a government official told a news conference the commission, headed by FIFA delegate Reynaldo Vazquez, was illegal.
St Anthony sail into semis st anthony super soccer HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
Hosts St Anthony’s Sports Club moved in to the semi-finals of St Anthony’s Super Soccer edging past Ambelim Sports Club 3-2 at Colva on Tuesday. Colva were trailing 0-2 at the break. Ambelim dominated the first half exchanges with Romeo Fernandes scoring early in the 5th minute off a pass from Macber Fernandes. Ambelim consolidated the lead in the 15th minute through Romeo off Samson Fernandes. Ambelim continued attacking even after the break and Colva goalkeeper Dulio Andrade effected as smart save from Maxin Fernandes in the 52nd minute. Colva hit back and the Ambelim goalkeeper came up with a grand save denying Nelson Gomes following a free kick. Colva managed to reduce the margin in the 38th minute as Clyde Pacheco connected a thrown in from John Barreto. Joston Pereira then scored the equaliser following a curling corner kick which eluded the entire Ambelim defence and the goalkeeper in the 45th minute. Colva snatched the lead in the 55th minute through Joao Fernandes who outpaced the Ambelim defenders and beat goalkeeper Cleto with a deft placement. Ambelim kept up the pressure but Samson hit straight at the rival goalkeeper. Ambelim’s Samson was awarded man-of-the match prize.
Saligao United players receiving the Sodiem Siolim Super Soccer Trophy from Dayanand Narvekar, MLA, Dayanand Mandrekar, MLA at Siolim on Sunday.
sodiem siolim super soccer HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
Saligao United, sponsored by Re i r a E c o v e n t u re s / N a z r i emerged champions in Sodiem Siolim Super Soccer 2010 organized by Sodiem Siolim Sports and Cultural Association at St. Anthony ’s Church ground, Siolim on Sunday. They beat Candolim Sports Club 2-1 in the finals. Candolim dominated the first half and yet found themselves down by a goal as Mahesh Rane of Salgao United scored through a header in the 34th minute. Saligao United increased the
Candolim in quarters
lakhanpal soccer HERALD CORRESPONDENT CALANGUTE, MAY 4
Hosts Candolim Sports Club prevailed over Sodiem Siolim Sports Club 2-1 to move into the quarter-finals of Lakhanpal Novinho Gold Cup Soccer at Dr. Gustavo Montiero Stadium on Tuesday. Dominating the proceedings, Candolim failed to capitalize on a couple of scoring opportunities. Joelif Simoes found the mark for Candolim in the closing stages of the first half. Changing over, Siolim fought back and restored parity through Gopal Shirodker off a Deepesh cross in the 20th minute of second half. With the scores level, Candolim mounted pressure on Siolim defense and were rewarded with a goal in the closing stages of play through Canute D'Souza.
lead in the second half (50th) through Martinho Fernandes also against the run of play. Candolim fought back well and reduced the margin in the 25th minute through Harish Divkar. Later, Lopes could have equalized but he shot over with the goalkeeper lying prostrate. Saligao United won Rs 20,000 and the winners trophy while Candolim had to be content with with the runners-up trophy and Rs. 15,000. Three under-13 junior National girls from Sodiem Siolim who represented Goa in Nationals in Tamil Nadu - Ridhi Shivram Goltekar, Shefali Pratab Goltekar, Puja Shankar Reddy were felicitated.
Prizes were presented by chief guest, Dayanand Narvekar, ML A and guest of honour Dayanand Mandrekar, ML A alongwith Leslie Fernandes, Abijeet Dharglkar, Leo Dias, deputy sarpanch of Sodiem Siolim, main sponsors. Following prizes were given away: Best goalkeeper Dietmar Fernandes of Saligao United. Best defender Mahesh Rane of Saligao United. Best half M.A. Francis of Saligao United. Best striker Kleiber D’Souza of Candolim S.C. Player of the tournament Bharat Morjee of Candolim S.C. The function was well organized and compered by Paul Fernandes, manager, Sodiem Siolim Sports and Cultural Association.
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Houghton still the coach: Patel Pg. 17
Sporting pip Mahindra, get lifeline Pg. 16
GOA, WEDNESDAY, 5 MAY, 2010
www.oherald.in
They want unlimited tenure: Gill lSays regulations will have no bearing on CWG PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
Taken aback by the criticism from Federation heads, Sports Minister MS Gill today hit back saying that they want unlimited tenures which don't exist even in the International Olympic Council (IOC). "I guess the current protest is frankly because my friends (in federations) want unlimited tenures which don't exist even in IOC and most major sports federations in the world," Gill told PTI in an interview. The new regulation suggests National Sports Federation (NSF) presidents, which includes longstanding Indian Olympic Association chief Suresh Kalmadi, cannot occupy the post for more than 12 years, with or without break, while secretaries and treasurers can serve eight years at a stretch and can seek a reelection only after a four-year gap. "We studied the International Olympic Council (IOC) regulation and they require their president
New Zealand wicketkeeper Gareth Hopkins effects a smart run out of Zimbabwe’s Hamilton Masakadza, at Guyana, on Tuesday.
Kiwis win under D/L method PTI PROVIDENCE (Guyana), MAY 4
Scott Styris and Nathan McCullum took three wickets each as New Zealand beat Zimbabwe by seven runs under Duckworth/Lewis method in a farcical rain-marred Group B match to qualify for Super Eight stage of the Twenty20 World Cup here today. Styris produced a superb pace bowling spell of three for five from his two overs while offspinner McCullum took three wickets by giving away 16 runs to bundle out Zimbabwe for just 84 in 15.1 overs after New Zealand opted to bowl first on a turning pitch. Both Styris and Nathan Mc-
Cullum capitalised on some inept batting by Zimbabwe as they took all their wickets from a single over. All of McCullum's scalps came in the ninth over while Styris took his three wickets in the 13th over. Chasing 85 for a win, New Zealand made 36 for one from 8.1 overs before rain interrupted play with Brendon McCullum and Martin Guptill at the crease on 22 and six respectively. At that time, New Zealand were seven runs ahead of par score under D/L method. Rain stopped after around one hour but confusion prevailed as the target was revised twice as players were out to resume play only to end it abruptly. After the
Zimbabwe: T Taibu c Oram b Southee 21, H Masakadza runt out (Oram) 20, A Blignaut b Vettori 8, E Chignumbura c Guptil b N McCullum 3, C Ervine st Hopkins b N McCullum 1, C Coventry c and b N McCullum 0, G Lamb not out 14, T Maruma c Guptill b Styris 4, A Cremer b Styris 0, P Utseya lbw b Styris 0, R Price b Vettori 2. Extras: 11. Total: 84-10. Overs: 15.1. Fall of wickets: 36-1, 58-2, 60-3, 624, 62-5, 63-6, 73-7, 74-8, 74-9, 84-10. Bowling: N McCullum 4-0-16-3,S Bond 30-20-0,T Southee 2-0-18-1,J Oram 1-0-13-0,D Vettori 3.1-0-10-2,S Styris 2-0-5-3. New Zealand: B McCullum not out 22, J Ryder c Taibu b Utseya 2, M Guptill not out 6. Extras: 6. Total: 36-1. Overs: 8.1. Fall of wickets: 7-1. Bowling: P Utseya 4-1-21-1, R Price 4-0-14-0, G Lamb 0.1-0-1-0. Man-of-the-Match: N McCullum.
first revision, the target for New Zealand was 45 from 11 overs but had to be changed to 40 from 10 overs. But all of a sudden, the match ended apparently because the ground was not ready for resumption of play after the heavy rain. With today's win, New Zealand topped Group B after winning both their matches and qualified for the Super Eight along with Sri Lanka, who finished second with one win. Zimbabwe lost both their two group matches to crash out of the tournament. They had lost to Sri Lanka by 14 runs yesterday. New Zealand made a slow start in their run chase and they were pegged back by the loss of Jesse Ryder (2) in the third over. Ryder ended his miserable stay at the crease, top-edging Prosper Utseya delivery while trying for a slog sweep for wicketkeeper Tatenda Taibu to pouch it easily. Ryder consumed 11 balls for his two runs. New Zealand made 19 for one after five overs and they were 36 for one in 8.1 overs when
Windies enter Super Eight
rain interrupted play. Earlier, Zimbabwe batsmen collapsed in a heap after a steady start as they were bundled out for a paltry 84. Openers Tatenda Taibu and Hamilton Masakadza put on 36 runs in 4.4 overs and were 58 for two in 6.4 overs. But after that Zimbabwe batsmen fell in a heap, losing eight wickets for just 16 runs by slumping from 58 for two in 6.4 overs to be all out for 84 in 15.1 overs.
TODAY’S MATCHES Australia v. Bangladesh 7 pm Afghanistan v. South Africa 11 pm
Team India arrive in Barbados PTI BRIDGETOWN (Barbados), MAY 4
Indian team, led by Mahendra Singh Dhoni, today arrived here with their sights firmly set on the Super Eight stage after authoritative performance in the first phase of Twenty20 World Cup ensured they had two wins under the belt. The team, which easily brushed aside both Afghanistan and South Africa, face sterner tests when they play second placed team of Group B, possibly Sri Lanka, on May 6 at Kensington Oval. After their arrival, Indian think tank gave the players a chance to recharge their batteries by scheduling an optional practice session. India's campaign here will unfold on a Kensington Oval pitch that is expected to offer more pace and bounce than the surface at the Beausejour Stadium in St Lucia. With a three-day gap, India have an opportunity of pacing their preparations appropriately and building up the momentum.
to have a 12-year term in total, no more, and to retire at 70. "Therefore, our NSF presidents can continue for 12 years even continuous. What more could we do?" Gill asked. The minister said the new regulation has the backing of all political parties and is in fact a softer version of the original 1975 guideline. "On April 22, there was a full debate on my ministry in the Rajya Sabha and all parties, barring none, urged me to have the regulation to limit terms (of the sports administrators), this being the demand of the sports people and the public for long," Gill said. "I studied the issue with my
officers and gave a considered order which should be read and re-read for total understanding," he said. Gill said all he did was to bring back an old regulation and in fact relaxed the norm to allow NSF presidents to continue for 12 years, instead of eight suggested by the original guideline. "I have only restored the regulation of the Indira Gandhi government. For the sake of the federation office-bearers, I have in fact softened the regulation and it's milder than the 1975 direction," he said. The minister also pointed out that the regulation doesn't mean the NSF office-bearers who have overstayed have to vacate the
positions right now. "We have also made it clear in the order that no one is to be disturbed right now. Elected office-bearers can carry on with their term. The regulation will apply from future elections, as and when they occur," he said. Further, he insisted that the new regulations will have no impact on the Commonwealth Games later this year. "We have made it clear that all office bearers (sports bodies) continue their work and as and when future elections come which are mainly in 2012, 2013 and 2014, these regulations will apply," Gill told reporters outside parliament.
PTI NEW DELHI, MAY 4
ing of the National Olympic Committees. This is a violation of Olympic Charter and IOC Executive Board may hand sanctions, suspension or withdrawal of recognition of such NOCs," IOA Secretary General Randhir Singh told a press conference here. "The issue of limiting tenure and fixing age limit of office bearers of the NOCs shall not be decided or imposed by any government or external pressure but should be decided by the NOCs themselves. These should be the prerogative of the NOCs and decided by their executive committees or general assemblies," Randhir said, quoting a letter from the IOC. The IOA official said both the letters have been forwarded to the Sports Ministry and he was expecting an amicable solution
to the episode. "We have forwarded the letters to the Sports Ministry and I hope better sense will prevail. Going ahead with the regulation would invite sanction, which may lead to a complete ban on India. "We have to decide if we really want our athletes to compete in international events and host major events in India. If IOC suspends us, all international federations would follow suit and our athletes would be the real victims in such a scenario," he said. "Anything can happen. It may even jeopardise the Commonwealth Games even though I don't want to be too negative. I hope we would reach a solution soon, for we want to work in tandem with the Ministry," Randhir said.
Interference could lead to suspension: IOA
The simmering row between the government and sports federation bosses over tenure limitations intensified today with the IOA warning that the Sports Ministry's attempt to erode their autonomy might invite an international ban on India. Armed with letters of support from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), the Indian Olympic Association today went on the offensive, asserting that sports bodies could not be subjected to interference and external pressure as per the Olympic Charter. "Any restriction on the tenure of the office bearers and fixing age limit may amount to interference to the internal function-
Ivana leading
Goa in baseball finals
HERALD SPORTS DESK PANJIM, MAY 4
HERALD CORRESPONDENT MARGAO, MAY 4
Ivana Maria Furtado emerged as the sole leader after the ninth round, totalling 7 points at U-11 National Chess championship in Chennai. She will be playing tomorrow on the top board with Priyamvada Karmcheli (1615) of AP. Gauri Hadkonkar, Riya Savant and Rishubh Naik are on 6.5 points each after 9 rounds. Ivana beat Manjula R. (1563) of TN, Rishubh Naik beat Gautam Manoj (1558) of Kerala.
Hosts Goa romped into the finals in boys and girls sections of 20th Junior National Baseball Championship organized by Goa Baseball Association at SAG sports complex, Fatorda on Tuesday. In both sections Goa will meet Delhi in the finals. In the boys semi-finals Goa beat Orissa 7-3 homes with Amey Shetye, Sonik Kundaikar, Sunny Gaude, Nirjay
Gaude, Jayesh Gaude and Vaishnav Pednekar excelling. Delhi boys beat Madhya Pradesh 6-3. Earlier, in the quarters, Goa hammered Manipur 15-0 homes. In the girls semi-finals, Goa beat Madhya Pradesh 12-0 homes. Neha Bhomkar, Anuja Budhalkar, Karishma Gaude, Sheral D’Melo, Reeya Narvekar and Shweta Gavas played well. Delhi scored a hard fought victory over Orissa to clash with Goa.
Salgaocar win U-20 1st Div Taca Goa
Anand surrender AGENCIES SOFIA, MAY 4
Bulgarian chess master Veselin Topalov has beaten world champion Viswanathan Anand in the eight game of the Sofia World Chess Title Match. Playing with the white pieces, Topalov managed to force his opponent to surrender on the 56th move in in an oppositecoloured bishop ending. Thus, with his critically important victory on Tuesday, the Bulgarian chess master has b ro u g h t t h e s c o re t o 4 : 4 points, with four more games to go. Anand and Topalov will play a total of 12 games, and if there is still no winner, there will be four more games in a rapid tiebreak.
The victorious Salgaocar U-20 team. HERALD SPORTS REPORTER MAPUSA, MAY 4
Salgaocar Sports Club overcame Sporting Clube de Goa 4-1 to win the First Division Taca Goa U-20 league at Duler Stadium, here on Tuesday. Salgaocar led by a solitary goal at the breather. Before the match kicked off, Salgaocar knew that a victory today would secure them the title. A brace from Salgaocar’s Oilex Oliveira in the second half
Photo: Aldrid D’Costa
put Salgaocar on the path to victory. The match resembled a rugby game at the beginning of the second half as both teams played aggressively, determined to win at any cost. Salgaocar took their chances today with a little help from mistakes in the Sporting defence. Sporting had their chances but misfired in front of the goal. Clifton Dias put Salgaocar in the lead on the half hour mark, after a
cross from the right eluded the entire Sporting defense allowing Clifton to tap into an empty net. In the 69th minute, Salgaocar’s Dawson Fernandes crossed from the right. The keeper fumbled allowing Oilex to dive in and double the lead. Eight minutes later Oilex powerfully smashed the ball into the top right hand corner of the net for Salgaocar’s third. In the 82nd minute Salgaocar custodian Presley Mascarenhas
Revise D/L system for T20: Collingwood Paul Collingwood of England being bowled by Darren Sammy of West Indies in Guyana, on Monday. PTI PROVIDENCE (Guyana), MAY 4
A rain disruption cost England dearly as West Indies beat them by eight wickets via DuckworthLewis system to enter the Super Eight stage of the Twenty20 World Cup here. Chasing a mammoth 192 for victory, West Indies got lucky when a heavy downpour, that took away over an hour of the match, led to their target being revised to 60 in six overs on Monday. The hosts, who were 30 for no loss when rain interrupted play, chased down the score after minor hiccups, leaving England dejected and frustrated. Put in to bat, Eoin Morgan's
breezy 35-ball 55 laid the foundation of England's score. They piled up a challenging 191 for five, thanks to Morgan's 95-run partnership with Luke Wright, who scored 45 off 27 balls. Chasing 192 to win, West Indies were 30 for no loss in 2.2 overs with captain Chris Gayle and Shivnarine Chanderpaul at the crease when play stopped due to heavy rain. Requiring another 30 runs from 3.2 overs after resumption, West Indies lost Gayle (25). Kieron Pollard also departed without scoring anything with Graeme Swann (2/24) scalping both the wickets. Opener Chanderpaul (15 not out) and Andre Fletcher (12 not out),
England innings: M Lumb b Gayle 28, C Kieswetter lbw b Miller 26, K Pietersen c Sarwan b Sammy 24, P Collingwood b Sammy 6, E Morgan c Pollard b Bravo 55, L Wright not out 45, T Bresnan not out 0. Extras: 7. Total: 191 for 5. Fall of wickets: 1-36 2-66 3-81 4-88 5-183. Bowling: Benn 3-0-23-0, Rampaul 3-0-52-0, Gayle 1-0-11-1, Miller 4-0-29-1, Sammy 4-0-22-2, Bravo 4-0-36-1, Pollard 1-0-16-0. West Indies innings: C Gayle c Yardy b Swann 25, S Chanderpaul not out 15, K Pollard st Kieswetter b Swann 0, A Fletcher not out 12. Extras: 8. Total: 60 for 2. Fall of wickets: 1-41 2-42. Bowling: Sidebottom 1-0-15-0, Swann 2-0-24-2, Bresnan 1-0-7-0, Yardy 1-0-6-0, Broad 0.5-0-8-0. Man-of-the-Match: D Sammy.
however, ensured that the hosts made it to the Super Eight stage. Earlier, England were off to a brilliant start with first three overs of the match yielding 30 runs. They suffered the first loss when Gayle removed Michael Lumb, who made 28 off 18 balls with the help of four fours, in the fourth over. Kevin Pietersen then joined Craig Kieswetter and added 30 runs for the second wicket before a Nikita Miller delivery found Kieswetter's leg in front of the wickets. Kieswetter had struck a huge six off the second delivery of the over but Miller took his revenge by removing the batsman with the very next ball. Captain Paul Collingwood (6) was the next man to go as Darren Sammy bowled him in the 10th over and then the pacer struck again by removing Pietersen with the last ball of the over. Pietersen, who made a 20ball 24, had to return to the dugout after an ambitious shot found Ramnaresh Sarwan near the midwicket boundary.
PTI PROVIDENCE (Guyana), MAY 4
Angry and frustrated after the Duckworth-Lewis system cost them a win over West Indies in the Twenty20 World Cup here, England captain Paul Collingwood has demanded that rain rules be revised for the shortest format of the game. "There's a major problem with Duckworth-Lewis in this form of the game," Collingwood said after the eight-wicket loss to the hosts. "I've got no problem with it in one-dayers, and I know it's made me very frustrated because I've come off the losing captain, but it's certainly got to be revised in this form," Collingwood said. "Ninety-five per cent of the time when you get 191 runs on the board you are going to win the game. Unfortunately Duckworth-Lewis seems to have other ideas and brings the equation completely the other way and makes it very difficult," he fumed. The man who benefited from the system too agreed with Collingwood. West Indies captain Chris
Gayle said one team cannot be disadvantaged the way England were last night due to rain. "I think it's something they're going to have to look into," he said.
"I would support what Collingwood just said. I could have been in the same position as well. It's something that can be addressed so it can be even stevens for both teams in the future. I'm
n There's a major problem with DuckworthLewis in this form of the game. I've got no problem with it in one-dayers, and I know it's made me very frustrated because I've come off the losing captain, but it's certainly got to be revised in this form. -- England Captain Paul Collingwood
happy but it's just unfortunate for England," he added. But that was hardly a consolation for Collingwood for whom the result is yet to sink in. "I'm trying to take the emotion out of that defeat to be honest with you," he said. "It's the second time it's happened to us against West Indies so it's very frustrating for the boys because we've played a near-perfect game and still lost," he added. Collingwood said he has no clue how the system can be adjusted to Twenty20 but it has to at the earliest or else teams would continue to suffer. "I'm not a mathematician, I don't really know what the equation should be, but your backs are certainly against the wall when it's like that."
saved a headed attempt from a corner, but Sporting skipper Mackroy Peixoto, who was lurking in the box snatched a goal back. Two minutes later at the other end, Standly Fernandes slotted home a penalty for Salgaocar to wrap up the title. Speaking to Herald, Salgaocar coach Micky Rebello said, “Today my boys only played at 50% of their potential, but I am delighted with their overall performance in this tournament.” Salgaocar have the Taca Goa U-20 crown to add to their GFA U-14 and GFA U-16 titles this season. Sporting will have to be content with their GFA U-18 Trophy won earlier.